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33rd East China Fair kicks off in Shanghai

Xinhua) 09:32, March 03, 2025

People communicate at a booth for household products during the 33rd East China Fair in Shanghai, east China, March 1, 2025. The 33rd East China Fair kicked off here on Saturday, featuring more than 5,100 booths in six themed sections of garments, textiles, household products, gifts, cross-border e-commerce, and overseas business. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

An overseas purchaser (1st L) learns about textile products at a booth during the 33rd East China Fair in Shanghai, east China, March 1, 2025. The 33rd East China Fair kicked off here on Saturday, featuring more than 5,100 booths in six themed sections of garments, textiles, household products, gifts, cross-border e-commerce, and overseas business. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

An exhibitor (R) talks with an overseas purchaser via a mobile phone translation app during the 33rd East China Fair in Shanghai, east China, March 1, 2025. The 33rd East China Fair kicked off here on Saturday, featuring more than 5,100 booths in six themed sections of garments, textiles, household products, gifts, cross-border e-commerce, and overseas business. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

An exhibitor (R) introduces his products to an overseas purchaser during the 33rd East China Fair in Shanghai, east China, March 1, 2025. The 33rd East China Fair kicked off here on Saturday, featuring more than 5,100 booths in six themed sections of garments, textiles, household products, gifts, cross-border e-commerce, and overseas business. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
President Trump is beating the living hell out of Mexico's cartels and they're crying 'uncle' to the New York Times.

According to today's Times:

One cartel leader says hes trying to figure out how to protect his family in case the American military strikes inside Mexico. Another says hes already gone into hiding, rarely leaving his home. Two young men who produce fentanyl for the cartel say they have shut down all their drug labs. A barrage of arrests, drug seizures and lab busts by the Mexican authorities in recent months has struck the behemoth Sinaloa Cartel, according to Mexican officials and interviews with six cartel operatives, forcing at least some of its leaders to scale back on fentanyl production in Sinaloa state, their stronghold. The cartels have sown terror across Mexico and caused untold damage in the United States. But here in Culiacan, the state capital, the dynamic seems to be shifting, at least for now. Cartel operatives say theyve had to move labs to other areas of the country or temporarily shut down production. You cant be calm, you cant even sleep, because you dont know when theyll catch you, said one high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel who, like other cartel operatives, spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of capture. The most important thing now is to survive, he added, his hands trembling.

Hey, I hope they were trembling.

I've seen cartel videos of these dirtbags running truck tires over a live, screaming, kidnapped man's head. I've read about the cartel's pozoleros, or stewmakers (don't ask), and seen news photos of headless bodies dangling from bridges. I've read about schoolchildren treated to dismembered bodies in their school yards and human heads used as bowling balls on disco floors. Every now and then, the cartels go on a car burning, or a house-burning, spree in Mexico's north. The last time I was in Tijuana, the border had no lines -- because a sack of human heads were found by cops the day earlier.

The trembling was the idea. While this thug sleeps with one eye open, millions of Mexicans are getting their first good night's rest in at least four years.

There have been signs of it coming: A few days ago, I wrote about the astonishment in Tijuana where locals couldn't find any sign of cartel activity -- no illegals, no drugs, no shakedowns, no shootouts. A local had this to say:

Mexico citizen reporting



- The Cartel presence has disappeared in border city Tijuana, Mexico

- People arent being trafficked anymore

- The Cartel isnt there to charge businesses to operate

- Residents arent having their money stolen

- Cartel members have even been killed

- pic.twitter.com/sZMQalkRwA  Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) February 26, 2025

Now we're reading about a full-scale terror meltdown among the world's most hideous criminals.

Trump knew what he was doing and can now gloat about his astonishing and instaneous success. The Times should be singing his praises for it, but they've decided to report sob stories instead. Yet it all was carefully planned out, the work of thoughtful people who were able to shut down the scourge of Mexico in maybe six weeks' work.

The open border has been shut down to illegal migrant and fentanyl trafficking, cutting off a vital cash stream for the cartels.

Mexican cartels have been declared international terrorist organizations, putting them under increased surveillance and subject to death from the sky at any moment of our choosing, as the cartels know very well.

Using tariffs as leverage, Trump gave Mexico 30 days to clean up its act, and as a result, Mexican troops are being trained by Green Berets on how to hose the cartel rats' nests out.

Mexico has rapidly dispatched 10,000 troops to control the border further.

The Times reports that this happened:

The countrys law enforcement seized nearly as much fentanyl in the last five months as it did in the previous year. Ms. Sheinbaums administration says it has made nearly 900 arrests in Sinaloa alone since October.

The fear is real and the place is looking like a USAID dismantling:

Criminal groups have not felt this level of pressure in such a long time, said Jaime Lopez, a security analyst based in Mexico City. In interviews, cartel operatives agreed. Some said they were selling off property and firing unessential personnel to make up for lost income from the dent in the fentanyl trade. Others said they were investing money in advanced equipment to detect American government drones, which the United States flew into Mexico during the Biden and Obama administrations as well. Criminal organizations in Mexico have a long history of surviving efforts to dismantle them, or simply splintering off into new groups. But several operatives said that for the first time in years, they genuinely feared arrest or death at the hands of the authorities.

The Times mentions the big one, extraditions of drug lords, of which about two dozen have happened, but doesn't seem to grasp the significance of that one on the cartel state of mind.

In 1996, Gabriel Garcia Marquez wrote "News of a Kidnapping, "a masterly book about the impact of extraditions on organized crime (at the time, led by Pablo Escobar's Medellin cartel) and how it drove them absolutely crazy, driving them into launching into a series of murderous kidnappings against Colombia's elites. It contained no politics of his lefty kind and was the best book he ever wrote.

They are scared to death of that.

Trump had to have known this. He put out this tweet to outline the scope of devastation he's wrought on these monsters:

Trump dropped this during the Oscars.



Greatest troll ever.  pic.twitter.com/iXErBFtXdZ  johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) March 3, 2025

As they cringe and cower, the rest of us can rejoice. Turns out this was doable all along, and Mexico didn't have to suffer through the depredations of these beasts. It just took Trump's courage and competence to do it. Score a big one for Trump.

Image: Screen shot from Guardian News video, via YouTube
Illinois, a sanctuary state, with Democrat super majorities in both the House and Senate, a Democrat governor, and all state office holders who are Democrats, continuously imposes higher taxes on its citizens. They are chasing away taxpayers while inviting non-citizens to live off the public dole. The Democrats need these replacements so they can keep congressional seats after chasing away all their former voters.

(As a side note: it is inexplicable that congressional seats are determined by the number of bodies in a state instead of number of citizens. It is an incentive to disobey federal immigration laws by states like Illinois, New York, and California who are losing citizens because of the progressive, leftwing policies they implement.)

Illinois has the most underfunded pensions in the country, at over $140 billion. The liability continues to grow. Illinois also has massive underfunded liabilities for current and retired employees health insurance.

So what did Illinois Democrats do when the debt hit a crisis level and people fled the state? They decided (in 2020) that it was time to entice tens of thousands of foreigners to come to Illinois by telling them they would pay their health bills.

Heres how its going:

Audit: Illinois non citizen health care programs far outstripped original cost estimates When progressive lawmakers first pushed for the creation of the Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors, or HBIS, program for noncitizens aged 65 and older in the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic, officials relied on advocates $2 million cost estimate for the programs first year. Though that projection was later doubled to $4 million as the program was being set up in the latter half of 2020, the actual cost ended up at more than $67 million after HBIS began accepting enrollees in December of that year. But while actual costs for the seniors program in its first three years  $412 million  ended up being 84% higher than original estimates, the price tag for the expanded program for adults aged 44 to 64 was many times larger. The Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults, or HBIA, program covered noncitizen adults age 55 to 64 and was later expanded to cover those as young as 44. It cost $485.3 million over its first two years  roughly 284% more than the combined original estimate for both programs.

They started by providing healthcare to seniors, and pretended the cost of the new program would be only $2 millionbut the cost for the first year was $67 million. They missed the estimate bythirty times. If a CEO at a private company, or its employees or consultants screwed up by this much they would have been fired, but government employees and politicians seem to be special.

So, what do Democrats do when a program blows through the cost estimates by this much? They expand the program, and the total costs of this $2 million program explode to over $1.6 billion in less than five years: Illinois Probed Over $1.6 Billion Health-Care Scheme for Illegal Migrants.

The reason that the U.S is $36 trillion in debt and that Illinois is so broke is that once a spending program starts, it is essentially impossible to eliminate because someone will always be impacted, and if politicians propose cutting or freezing spending, they are derided as uncaring people.

Illinois citizens are so unhappy with the way Illinois is run, that almost one third of the counties would like to secede and join Indiana, which is much more appreciative of and friendly toward its businesses and citizens:

Indiana wants to absorb 33 Illinois counties that voted to secede: Join us According to Huston, seven Illinois counties voted in November to leave the state. Upon further investigation, it was determined by Huston that 33 counties in total voted to secede, which is roughly one-third of Illinois' counties. Historically, Illinois was once part of Indiana from 1800 to 1809 before being divided into a separate state.

It seems very odd that two of the top potential Democrat candidates for president are governors whose policies are chasing away businesses and citizens, especially taxpayers. Why would anyone think that governors who are overseeing drastic shrinkage in their own states would be good leaders of our country?

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.
Google Search has been around for more than two decades. No wonder, Google is doing its bit to improve users search experience by making some important changes. But, it seems the companys effort is going in vain. Google Search, which used to be the go-to place for searching for information over the years, is apparently losing its charm and becoming less useful, according to a survey.

Google Search is becoming less useful and lacks quality information

Recently, The Verge partnered with Two Cents Insights and Vox Medias Insights and Research team to survey more than 2000 adults from the United States. Well, the findings of the survey are quite interesting. Nearly 66% of the surveyed people said that the quality of information they get from Google Search is declining.

Thats not all, nearly 42% of the surveyed people feel that Google and search engines are becoming less useful. It is also becoming very difficult to find reliable sources of information. This hints that people are becoming increasingly wary of platforms and where they get their information.

Online communities are apparently becoming a popular choice among users. Nearly 55% of the surveyed people said to be getting information from communities instead of less useful search engines like Google. Whats interesting is that 52% of those surveyed said that they look up information using chatbots or TikTok.

The survey report also sheds some light on the use of AI for research purposes. It was reported that 53% of millennials and 61% of Gen Z said they use the available AI tools rather than Google Search for searching a specific topic.

Findings about shopping results and challenges in EU

It seems Googles sponsored and promoted shopping results are annoying a large chunk of users. Notably, 76% of the surveyed people said that seeing more than a quarter of Google Search shopping results as sponsored and promoted makes such results less useful. Interestingly, only 14% of those surveyed found these Google Search results to be very helpful.

The survey concludes that Legacy technology (e.g., Google) and social platforms are rapidly losing ground as trust and authenticity fade. Google has long been in the firing line of the EU antitrust regulators for its Search business. More recently, the company is facing new antitrust charges in the EU over search bias.
Lenovo has announced several new laptops at Mobile World Congress today, including two new AI laptops added to its Aura Edition models with the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition and the Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition. Alongside these two devices, the company is also announcing the Yoga Pro 7, Yoga Slim 7, and the Yoga 7 2-in-1. Neither the Yoga Pro 7 nor the Yoga Slim 7 will be launched in North America. Its also showcasing the new IdeaPad Slim 3x, a new Copilot+ PC powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon X processor.

The IdeaPad Slim 3x is perfect for power users who need a lot of storage. While it comes with up to 1TB internally, it houses a second SSD slot that users can access and add in more storage with an additional NVMe SSD. This second slot will support either 512GB or 1TB, depending on your needs. It also comes with up to 24GB of RAM, as well as a 15.1-inch OLED display and several IO ports for plugging in accessories. Lenovo plans to start shipping this laptop this month with a starting price of $649.

The Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition is perfect for creators and gamers

Lenovos Legion brand is the companys main family of devices focused on gaming, but laptops like the new Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition will be able to handle games just fine.

Powered by an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H CPU, and up to 64GB of RAM, this laptop is no slouch in the performance department. Lenovo is gearing this toward creators, but with those specs, itll be a fine gaming machine as well. So when youre done creating, you can kick back with your favorite game and relax.

And thanks to Lenovos X Power feature, the laptop can adjust cooling for optimal performance while delivering a 130W TDP. No matter what youre doing, the 16-inch 3.2K OLED display will ensure it looks good visually. A 1,600-nits peak brightness, meanwhile, will help to prevent glare. Lenovo says it plans to ship the Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition sometime in Q2. Pricing is expected to start at $1,799.99.

As for the Yoga Pro 7i Aura Edition, this uses Intel Arc graphics, so it wont be as capable for gaming. However, it should be more than suitable for content creation and general computing. It houses a smaller 14.5-inch OLED display with a 3K resolution, up to 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. It also uses the Intel Core Ultra 9 CPU. This model isnt going to be available in North America. Pricing and availability outside of North America will depend on the region.

Lenovo has two new Yoga 7 2-in-1 laptops coming for under $1,000

Budget shoppers hunting down a good deal might be interested in one of Lenovos two new Yoga 7 laptops. Both of them are 2-in-1 machines, making them versatile enough to be used in several different ways. They also both come in at a price thats well under $1,000. That should make them more easily attainable by a larger number of consumers.

First, theres the Yoga 7 2-in-1 with a 16-inch display. This one is expected to launch in Q3 with a starting price of $849. Then theres the 14-inch model that launches this month with a starting price of $899. Both laptops come powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 series CPUs, specifically the Ryzen AI 7 350. Additionally, they can come with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of internal storage.

Solar power for all with the Solar Power Kit for Yoga

In addition to its new lineup of Yoga laptops, Lenovo has announced a few additional proof of concept devices. One is the Solar Power Kit for Yoga, a power bank that uses the same kind of solar technology as the Solar PC concept. The solar panel is detachable and uses USB-C for connection, and it can be attached to bags, tents, or trees to charge wherever theres sunlight.

Another proof of concept device called the Lenovo AI Stick adds AI features to PCs that dont run on a processor with an NPU. It can connect to PCs via a Thunderbolt port and gives those PCs access to things like local large language models and AI-enhanced graphics. Theres also an AI display with a built-in NPU. This has similar functionality to the AI Stick. Allowing users to gain AI capabilities with a non-NPU PC thats plugged into it.
Lenovos bread and butter in the business world has always been its ThinkPad laptops, and its announcing a few new options at Mobile World Congress, including the ThinkPad T14s and ThinkPad X13 Gen 6, as well as the new ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 and a ThinkBook 3D laptop concept. The company is also announcing a new Legion gaming monitor that comes with a hybrid 3D display.

Additionally, Lenovo officially unveiled a few more concept devices, including the Magic Bay Dual Display that leaked last month. There are two more display concepts in this family, too  The Magic Bay 2nd Display and the Magic Bay Tiko. The Magic Bay 2nd Display is an 8-inch concept display that can be used as a secondary screen. It has built-in AI capabilities for enhancing productivity. The Magic Bay Tiko is an AI interaction companion that Lenovo says displays real-time emoji-style status as well as interactive gesture-based responses.

Theres a Pro version of this as well, which is a dedicated AI-powered display for providing a real-time widget interface to the user. Its designed for working professionals to help them manage multiple workflows, the company says.

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s is the first convertible laptop in the T series

ThinkPad laptops have been around for a long time. Up until now, however, Lenovo has never released one in the T series with a convertible design. The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s is the first convertible laptop in this series, providing working professionals with new ways to tackle their daily tasks.

It has a 360-degree dual hinge with four modes, including tent, stand, and tablet modes in addition to the standard laptop mode. It also supports the use of Lenovos latest Yoga pen for precise annotation, handwriting, and more. This pen can attach to the laptop magnetically so it doesnt get lost, too. The pen is optional, though, and doesnt come with the laptop.

Lenovo says it comes in two different variations. One with a 500-nit low-power touch display and one with a 400-nit WUXGA touch display. The latter is intended to deliver better power efficiency and longer-lasting battery life. Making it the ideal option for people who might be away from a power source for longer periods of time during the day. The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 launches in June at a starting price of $1,719. The non-2-in-1 model starts at $1,674 and launches the same month.

The ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 offers a more portable solution

For those concerned with portability, Lenovos new ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 offers a lightweight solution to carrying around a laptop all day. It weighs just over 2 pounds, making it incredibly lightweight. The display is also just 13.3 inches. So it wont take up a ton of space in your bag, Another design decision that makes this the go-to choice for people who need to constantly mobile on a daily basis.

Its powered by AMDs Ryzen AI Pro series processors and can come with up to 64GB of RAM. Additionally, it can come with up to 2TB of storage. It has Wi-Fi 7 support and 5G connectivity support as well. So you can stay connected whether youre in the office or out in the field.

Lenovo plans to start shipping this laptop in June. Price-wise, it starts at $1,139. Alongside the two laptops, Lenovo plans to launch the ThinkPad T14 and T16 in May at prices of $1,359 and $1,623, respectively.

Lenovos concept gaming monitor displays 2D and 3D images at the same time

3D monitors arent exactly new, but Lenovo isnt just displaying any old 3D monitor. At Mobile World Congress today, the company is showcasing a concept Legion 3D gaming monitor. Its capable of displaying both 2D and 3D imagery at the same time. Lenovo says this can happen without any loss in resolution quality. Whats more, the tech is glasses-free. The monitor is ultrawide and comes with a 34-inch curved panel. However, this is just a proof of concept.

That means theres a chance Lenovo actually ends up making a monitor like this to sell. That would be a shame since its an exciting idea in the world of gaming monitors. Lenovo is packing some similar technology into a concept ThinkBook laptop. The difference is that the display on this concept laptop doesnt show 2D and 3D images at the same time. Instead, you can swap between those modes at your leisure.

For example, maybe you want regular 2D images when youre working. Then, when youre done with work, you can kick things over to 3D for movies or games.
Chinese smartphone brand Meizu has made a comeback in the smartphone market after a long absence. The company has introduced the Meizu Note 22, mblu 22, and mblu 22 Pro handsets at the ongoing MWC 2025 trade show. Meizus mblu 22 is an entry-level offering powered by the Go Edition of Android 15. As for the Meizu Note 22 and mblu 22 Pro, they are mid-range smartphones that run Android 15 with the brands Flyme skin on top.

Meizu Note 22 is a mid-range offering with a 108MP main camera

Introduced in Barcelona at MWC 2025, the Meizu Note 22 features a 6.78-inch display with 1,080p resolution and an LCD screen panel. A MediaTek Helio G99 processor is at the helm to take care of the performance side of things. The phone will be available in two RAM and storage configurations  8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256GB.

For imaging, Meizu has fitted the Note 22 with a 108MP primary camera and a 32MP selfie snapper. Theres no information regarding the other two rear lenses of the smartphone. The handset comes with an IR blaster, NFC connectivity, and a 5,000mAh battery that supports 40W fast charging.

Meizu mblu 22 and mblu 22 Pro features

Meizus mblu 22 entry-level phone gets a 6.79-inch LCD screen with HD+ resolution. An unknown Unisoc processor powers the phone. The company has paired the chipset with up to 4GB of RAM and up to 128GB of native storage. The other features of the handset include a 13MP main camera, a 5MP selfie snapper, loud stereo speakers, and a 5,000mAh battery.

Coming to the Meizu mblu 22 Pro, the phone has the same screen size as the mblu 22, but supports a higher refresh rate, probably 90Hz. The handset has an upgraded 50MP main camera and an 8MP front shooter. It has the same 5,000mAh battery as the vanilla variant but supports 18W fast charging. Meizu has powered the phone with a MediaTek Helio G81 chip. The SoC is accompanied by up to 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage.

All new Meizu phones announced at MWC 2025 will be available in attractive hues. Meizu hasnt yet revealed any details regarding the pricing and availability of the new Note and mblu series phones. Its worth mentioning that Meizu decided to quit the smartphone business to focus on AI last year. So, lets see what the future holds for the brand in 2025.
As expected, Qualcomm brought a host of big innovations in the field of wireless connectivity and AI implementation in telecommunications to MWC 2025 in Barcelona. We had some previews of its developments in the days leading up to the event. Now, the North American firm has announced the Qualcomm X85 5G modem, new low-power 4G platforms, and the Qualcomm FWA Gen 4 Elite Platform. It also revealed the expansion of its technologies into 5G O-RAN implementations.

Qualcomm X85 5G modem boasts impressive upload/download speeds and powerful AI

Qualcomm announced the modem that we will likely see in next-gen Snapdragon flagship SoCs. The new Qualcomm X85 5G platform is the eighth generation of 5G modems from the company. It is also the fourth generation to implement AI-powered technologies. The X85 boasts impressive download speeds of up to 12.5 Gbps. On the other hand, there are theoretical upload speeds of up to 3.7 Gbps powered by 4-layer UL carrier aggregation. It also includes support for sub-6 and mmWave compatibility with up to 14 km long range.

Qualcomms improved 5G AI processor integrates a tensor accelerator hardware. The artificial intelligence boost promises to offer greater speed, energy efficiency, and coverage thanks to 30% faster AI inferencing capabilities. This translates into smoother streaming than ever, faster downloads, and uninterrupted online gaming wherever you are. The modem boasts compatibility with more than 10,000 band configurations. So, it will be fully compatible with practically all carriers around the world. Qualcomms 6Rx/4R technology is also present to boost network capacity through spectrum optimization.

Low-power 4G solutions for businesses and IoT platforms

The firm introduced three new 4G modems designed for IoT platforms and industrial use. They boast ultra-low power consumption and small size. This makes them ideal for implementation in a host of interconnected product ecosystems.

First is the Qualcomm E41, a modem that integrates low-power connectivity into the product ecosystems of Idemia and Thales, two companies focused on cybersecurity. Then there is the Qualcomm E51 platform, designed to offer efficient connectivity in IoT devices. There is also the Qualcomm E52 that improves the connectivity of the E51 by integrating support for LTE Cat 1bis connectivity.

Qualcomms Dragonwing FWA Gen 4 Elite platform is powered by the X85 5G modem

Recently, Qualcomm announced the Dragonwing brand for wireless telecommunications solutions designed for business and enterprise environments. Now, the firm has revealed a new product in the series: the Qualcomm FWA Gen 4 Elite. This platform is powered by the new Qualcomm X85 5G modem. That means it also boasts impressive download and upload speeds of 12.5 Gbps and 3.7 Gbps, respectively.

The FWA Gen 4 Elites AI processor boasts up to 40 TOPS. This will enable the implementation of powerful on-device solutions based on artificial intelligence. Theres also a quad-core CPU and dedicated hardware acceleration for cutting-edge performance. Additionally, it features Qualcomms 6Rx/8Rx technologies, a step up from the 6Rx/4R tech present in the X85 5G intended for the consumer market. Other integrated features include GNSS, tri-band Wi-Fi 7, and broad carrier middleware compatibility.

More carriers around the world deploying Qualcomm-powered 5G Open RAN networks

Qualcomm also talked about how its technology is increasingly in demand for 5G Open RAN solutions. The company mentioned the case of Viettel, Vietnams largest telecom, using Qualcomm Dragonwing hardware to deploy a 5G O-RAN Massive MIMO network. NTT DOCOMO, Japans largest mobile carrier, used Dragonwing X100 Accelerator Cards to deploy its 5G vRAN network.
The bidding on TikTok just got fiercer. Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian is tossing his hat into the ring by joining Frank McCourt, former Los Angeles Dodgers owner, in his bid to acquire TikTok. According to McCourt, He has that broad portfolio of experience  of where social media was and, I think, a keen understanding of where its evolving.

Project Libertys bid

In addition to being the former owner of the LA Dodgers, McCourt is also the founder of Project Liberty. For those unfamiliar, Project Liberty is an organization that wants to fix the internet and return data control to users. Many internet services own our data, including social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Social media companies sell this data to marketing firms and advertisers. They then craft personalized ads that cater to what they think we like. Project Liberty wants to change that by giving people back their data and letting them choose what they want to do with it. The organizations bid for TikTok is part of that plan. They envision a healthier version of TikTok that is less harmful to children and teenagers.

According to Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Chief Technology Officer & Co-Founder of Inrupt, and Director of the open-source protocol, Solid, Users should have an ability to control their own data, to share it with other people and organizations as they choose. A TikTok utilizing open internet protocols, such as Solid, will embrace the critical values of privacy, data sovereignty, and user mental health.

Competing bids

McCourt and Project Liberty arent the only ones bidding on TikTok. Many other individuals and organizations have placed their bids, including YouTube personality MrBeast. The YouTuber is part of a group of investors raising money to bid on TikTok. Rumors have also claimed that Elon Musk is interested, something that the billionaire has denied.

U.S. President Donald Trump has also floated the idea of creating a sovereign wealth fund to buy TikTok. However, despite all these talks and bids, nothing concrete has surfaced. McCourt says TikToks parent company, ByteDance, is only lightly engaging in these talks. However, ByteDance has yet to define which assets it will sell or how it values the company.

McCourt also speculates that ByteDance may simply opt to shut down the app (for the US market) instead of selling it.
Scottish artist Jack Vettriano has been found dead in his flat in France.

The body of the 73-year-old painter, born Jack Hogan, in Methil, Fife, was found in the flat in Nice on Saturday, his publicist said.

It is understood there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.

Vettriano left school at 15 to become a mining engineer but took up painting after a girlfriend gave him a box of watercolours for his 21st birthday.

The self-taught artist drew inspiration from works at Kirkcaldy Galleries, studying paintings from artists such as Samuel Peploe and William McTaggart so intently that he feared arousing the suspicions of gallery staff.

His breakthrough came in 1998 when he submitted two paintings to the Royal Scottish Academys annual show and both sold on the first day, inspiring him to become a full-time artist.

His works garnered international acclaim, leading to exhibitions in cities such as Edinburgh, London, Hong Kong, Johannesburg and New York.

His 1992 painting the The Singing Butler is among his most famed work and shows an elegant couple dancing on a storm-swept beach accompanied by their butler and maid, becoming a best-selling image in Britain.

Among those to have acquired Vettriano paintings are Jack Nicholson, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Tim Rice and Robbie Coltrane.

Vettriano painting The Singing Butler in 1992 (Jack Vettriano/PA)

His publicist said in a statement: Jack Vettrianos passing marks the end of an era for contemporary Scottish art.

His evocative and timeless works will continue to captivate and inspire future generations.

The first major retrospective of Vettrianos work was held in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow in 2013.

It attracted more than 136,000 visitors during its five-month run and was said to be the most successful commercial exhibition ever staged in Glasgow at that time.

A further retrospective was held at Kirkcaldy Galleries in 2022, focusing on his formative years and early career.

A portrait of Billy Connolly by artist Jack Vettriano (Jane Barlow/PA)

Vettriano created a portrait for one of the giant murals of Billy Connolly installed in Glasgow in 2017 to mark the comedians 75th birthday.

A reimagining of The Singing Butler by artist Banksy, named Crude Oil (Vettriano) and owned by Blink-182 star Mark Hoppus, is to go to auction in London on Tuesday where it is estimated to fetch between 3 million and 5 million.

Scotlands First Minister John Swinney was among those to pay tribute to Vettriano.

He said: I am very sorry to hear that one of Scotlands best-known artists, Jack Vettriano, has died, and I want to express my deepest condolences to his family.

From humble beginnings as a self-taught artist from Methil, Jack made a unique and evocative contribution to artistic life in Scotland, rising to become a household name thanks to iconic paintings like The Singing Butler, which has graced the walls of homes and galleries around the world.

Born and raised in Fife, much of his early exposure to art came from the Kirkcaldy Galleries, so it was fitting that some of his earliest works were exhibited there in recent years.

Jack was also a philanthropist for a number of important causes and I know his loss will be sorely felt by many across Scotland and the world.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar also paid tribute, posting on social media: Very sad news. Jack Vettriano was an iconic Scottish artist. My thoughts are with his family and friends.
British cinematographer Lol Crawley has said it was overwhelming winning his first Oscar for The Brutalist.

Crawley, who grew up in Wales, took home the best cinematography gong for the drama, which also secured the coveted best actor award for Adrien Brody and best original score.

Appearing on BBC Breakfast on Monday, the filmmaker described the moment when his name was read out as the winner of his category as extraordinary.

'A victory for Wales' British Oscar winner Lol Crawley told #BBCBreakfast he plans to return to his old school with his award after winning Best Cinematography for 'The Brutalist'https://t.co/u4H6wFKUXR pic.twitter.com/JAHxEN1qpG  BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) March 3, 2025

I mean, overwhelming, and after such a long journey you know, he said.

He continued: Its wonderful and I really just hope that, more than anything, all of this attention, accolades, and also the fact that people are seeing the movie, that its going to expand the conversations about what cinema can be.

I feel like weve been slightly constrained by the length of the movies, by the format we shoot on and I feel like its kind of blown it out the water and event cinema.

Adrien Brody, star of The Brutalist, took home best actor (Evan Agostini/AP)

Directed and co-written by Brady Corbet, The Brutalist follows the story of a Hungarian-Jewish architect, played by Brody, who is separated from his wife Erzsebet, played by Felicity Jones, and orphaned niece as he flees Nazi extermination to the US.

Of the intermission in the 215-minute-long film, Crawley said the break was in the script when he read it.

He continued: I remember when I was a kid, our nearest cinema was a place called Oswestry on the Welsh-English border and I went to see BMX Bandits, there was an intermission.

That movie had an intermission, but it was unplanned.

Suddenly, the film came to a screeching halt, and you went and bought an ice cream.

So at least with this one, its considered  the intermission is considered where its placed.

Asked how much the award meant to Wales, the cinematographer said he was very proud.

He added: It doesnt seem that long since I was there, to be quite honest but I have a huge affection for that country.

British special effects artist Paul Lambert, was among the team who won best visual effects for Dune: Part Two (John Locher/AP)

Cinematography has proved something of an Oscars success story for the UK in recent years, with British talent winning the award four times in the past decade.

Another British winner, Paul Lambert  who was part of the visual effects team for science fiction epic Dune: Part Two, starring Timothee Chalamet and Zendaya, said he felt terrified about going onto the stage in front of the live audience to collect his award.

Of his Oscar, which is the fourth of his career, Lambert told BBC Breakfast: It doesnt get any easier, you get terrified because you know that youre going up in front of like 1,000 people but its a great honour to be honoured in this way by the Academy.

The special effects artist has previously picked up gongs for his work on Blade Runner 2049, Dune and First Man.
Coronation Street actress Claire Sweeney has said she became tearful after acting alongside soap star William Roache in a dramatic scene.

The 53-year-old English actress, who plays Cassie Plummer, praised Roache for an emotional performance where his character Ken Barlow finds out what Cassie has been up to.

In the scene, Cassie comes clean to Ken for slipping anti-histamines into his drink in order to steal from him.

William Roache has been praised by his co-star for upcoming Coronation Street scenes (Ian West/PA)

Discussing the moment, Sweeney commended her 92-year old scene partner, calling his performance award-winning.

Speaking about Roache, Sweeney said: Its an award-winning performance. It literally made me cry, he was so wonderful, so to do those scenes with Bill, who is a legend on screen, was just sensational.

He did this very very dramatic scene and at the end, the crew, there was silence, and then he got a round of applause.

I was bloody tearful, and I thought, God, he is wonderful. I hope he gets recognised for this. He is brilliant.

Claire Sweeney plays Cassie on the Cobbles (Ian West/PA)

Sweeney first joined the Cobbles cast in 2023, taking on the role of Cassie, who becomes a carer for Ken.

In recent episodes, viewers have watched Cassies antics unfold as she gets caught lacing Kens drinks with antihistamines in an attempt to make him drowsy and reliant on her.

She also took it as an opportunity to steal from him by making expensive purchases using his credit card until eventually Ken finds out and confronts her.

The actress added: There was a sense of relief because she couldnt have just carried on the way she was so with Cassie there was always going to come to a head and there has to be a bit of a redemption arch with the character.

Sweeney is best known for her playing Lindsey Corkhill in Brookside along with starring in West End productions of Chicago and Guys And Dolls.

She also appeared on the 2024 series of Dancing On Ice and was paired with skater Colin Grafton.

Her scene partner, Bill Roache, whose full name is William Roache, is the longest-serving cast member on the soap, playing Ken Barlow since the first episode aired in 1960.

Sweeney has also described Cassie as a joy to play, saying that she is not a one dimensional character.

She added: The stuff that theyve written for her has been absolutely brilliant. But its the vulnerability mixed with the streak of evil and the fieriness, and they give her a lot of comedy lines as well, so she is a joy to play.

I just love playing her because shes funny, shes a bit evil, shes vulnerable, and she is just an absolute joy to play.
NHS patients with complex eye conditions risk losing their sight because of treatment delays linked to clinicians prioritising simpler and better paid procedures, according to medical professionals and campaigners.

Dr Ben Burton, the president of the Royal College of Ophthalmology, said the system is on the brink of collapse, while surgeon-turned Labour MP Dr Peter Prinsley said parts of the country could become ophthalmic deserts over a lack of coverage.

The crisis has been triggered, in part, by the rise in fees paid to independent providers by the NHS for cataract removal in recent years, according to Dr Prinsley (Bury St Edmunds and Stowmarket).

The speed of basic cataract procedures means several can be carried out in a day by consultants, which has proven lucrative, he added.

This has led to increasing numbers of NHS consultants taking on more private work, including setting up clinics near hospitals which can carry out work for the NHS, he told the PA news agency.

It means fewer NHS appointments are available for patients with more complex conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Dr Burton said the problem was reaching a crisis point, telling the PA news agency: Were heading off a cliff, its not sustainable, and its not safe.

Its been something I think somebody needs to take a step back on and see the bigger picture of.

In a statement the NHS told the PA news agency it was assessing the impact of the rapid growth of the independent sector and wanted to ensure the sustainability of services for all eyecare conditions.

The number of cataract procedures being carried out has risen sharply in recent years. Figures provided by NHS England show that 676,000 took place in 2023-2024 compared to 451,000 in 2019-2020  a rise of nearly 50%.

Meanwhile, only 393,600 patients (66%) of patients began ophthalmology treatment within 18 weeks, according to NHS England.

In the latest waiting times, there were 589,508 cases where the patient was waiting to start ophthalmology treatment.

Of these, 9,481 (1.6%) had been waiting longer than a year for treatment to begin.

In half of cases the patient had been waiting less than 11.5 weeks.

Dr Burton said clinics could selectively choose to do simpler procedures, with more complex ones falling on the NHS who have some staff working fewer hours.

He said: These are the same consultants that were doing glaucoma, which is a blinding irreversible condition, or treating irreversible macular disease, or screening babies for blindness.

And although theyre not stopping completely in the NHS, at least not all of them, the direction of travel is that they are doing less and less in the NHS, with obvious consequences and more and more in the independent sector in terms of the number of sessions in the week etc, and thats a concern.

Im saying: can we please not go down the same route with ophthalmology as weve seen with dentistry? Because we will have the same sorts of problems trying to re-establish ophthalmology once that develops.

Robert Cooper, director of strategic engagement at the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), said: The expansion of provision for cataract surgery in the independent sector is continuing to have a destabilising effect on NHS eye care services and is leading to some patients experiencing deteriorating vision because of delays in receiving the treatment they really need.

Glaucoma is a condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged.

Meanwhile macular degeneration can lead to blurring or no vision in the centre of the eye and is often age related.

One woman with wet age-related macular degeneration has waited twice the recommended time for eye injections to treat the condition.

Bernice Evans, 82, from Cambridgeshire, has had to wait 16 weeks, rather than the suggested eight.

She said: It does make you worry, particularly when I cant see the stuff I am used to being able to see.

You almost go back to the start again when youve not had an injection.

Ed Holloway, chief executive of sight loss charity the Macular Society, said: Its increasingly clear that eye care services are underfunded and struggling to meet the needs of an aging population.

In many areas, the situation has reached a crisis point  and it is only getting worse. Urgent action is needed now to prevent avoidable sight loss and ensure people receive the care they deserve.

The tariff paid by the NHS to a clinic or a department for cataract procedure has risen sharply in recent years.

The price paid for the most complicated cataract surgeries rose from 861 to 1,216 from 2019 to 2022, NHS England data shows.

The NHS cut fees for the two most complex procedures last year by 12%, with clinics now paid 993.

Meanwhile the most minor procedures had risen from 739 to today, where departments will get 837.

Dr Prinsley said: What needs to happen is that the tariff needs to change. Its a simple thing to change.

He added: The thing is that we havent got long to deal with this, because if we just allow the status quo to persist, then we will see the collapse in NHS ophthalmology services, and a literally, an ophthalmic desert.

An NHS spokesperson said: While the NHS has increased the number of cataract operations and brought down backlogs following the pandemic, we know some patients with complex conditions are waiting too long for care.

The NHS is working with local commissioners and providers to assess the impact of the rapid growth of the independent sector and ensure the sustainability of services for all eyecare conditions.
Farmers will return to central London to protest inheritance tax changes with a Pancake Day rally on Tuesday.

Attendees will march from Whitehall at around midday towards Parliament, with the demonstration due to end at 3pm.

The protest will be largely on foot as police are allowing only a limited number of tractors after last months demonstration caused traffic delays.

Farmers who bring tractors in breach of the conditions could face arrest.

Farmer Olly Harrison, one of the organisers, has said the protesters will aim to explain to MPs the levels of investment needed in agriculture just to produce something simple like a pancake.

Labour is pressing ahead with a 20% inheritance tax rate on agricultural land and businesses worth more than 1 million, essentially scrapping an exemption which meant no tax was paid to pass down family farms.

Farmers say that it will force land sales, stall investment, and hurt families lacking succession plans.

But the Government has stood firm, calling the move a fair and balanced approach.

The Lib Dems and the Conservatives urged Labour to scrap the changes, which are due to come into force from April 2026.

Shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins called the move vindictive.

Once again, rural communities will gather in Westminster to show their united opposition to Labours vindictive family farms tax.

Our rural communities have warned repeatedly that Labours tax hike is stopping investment, inflicting an enormous emotional toll on farming families and will break family farms, she said.

She also argued that introducing this tax puts domestic food production and security at risk.

Tim Farron, the Lib Dem environment spokesman, said: British farmers are the best in the world. We need them now more than ever to restore nature, provide food security, tackle climate change and support the rural economy.

The Government must reverse this disastrous family farm tax and instead provide farmers with the support and funding they need to do what is best for the country and for future generations.

A Government spokesperson said: Our commitment to farmers remains steadfast.

This Government are investing 5 billion into farming, the largest budget for sustainable food production in our countrys history.

We are going further with reforms to boost profits for farmers by backing British produce and reforming planning rules on farms to support food production.

Our reform to agricultural and business property reliefs will mean three quarters of estates will continue to pay no inheritance tax at all, while the remaining quarter will pay half the inheritance tax that most people pay, and payments can be spread over 10 years, interest-free.

This is a fair and balanced approach which helps fix the public services we all rely on.
The father of an Israeli hostage has called for pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to move the ceasefire deal forward.

Yehuda Cohen, father of 20-year-old Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, was speaking at the Israeli embassy in central London, where he criticised Mr Netanyahu for stalling the deal with Hamas which could lead to the return of his son from Gaza.

There is a deal on the table, Mr Cohen told reporters.

Left to right, Kochav and Shlomit Levinson, parents of Shay Levinson; Yehuda Cohen, father of Nimrod Cohen; Ayelet Kaufman, sister of Hadar Goldin; Noga Gur-Arye, aunt of Alon Ohel; and Ditza Or, mother of Avinatan Or, at the Israeli embassy in London (Yui Mok/PA)

It started the first part, it was done the first part, second part is there by a reach.

The only thing is Netanyahu is stalling it and Im here to say loud and clear: We need pressure on our government, on Netanyahu in particular, to go for the second part of the deal.

Mr Cohen added: The thing is everything stands on our Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who refuses to get to a permanent ceasefire.

Hes not a saint.

Hes not doing it because of ideological reason. Hes doing it for personal reasons. He wants to stay in power.

In the first phase of the ceasefire deal, 33 Israelis were freed  including the bodies of eight people who were killed in captivity or during the October 7 2023 attack when Hamas killed about 1,200 people and took more than 250 hostages.

Israel released nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees during the first phase of the ceasefire in exchange for the hostages.

Mr Cohen said he has heard news that his son, who was captured on October 7, is alive from other hostages who were released in the first phase.

Hes there, hes alive, hes well and the only thing left is to get him released, he said.

Three British-linked families told reporters of the horror of waiting for their relatives to be returned.

Ayelet Kaufman, left, sister of Hadar Goldin, speaking to the media at the Israeli embassy in London (Yui Mok/PA)

Ayelet Kaufman, the sister of Hadar Goldin, has been waiting more than 10 years for the return of her brothers body.

Mr Goldin, an Israeli soldier, was kidnapped and killed in 2014, his sister told reporters.

She said her family, including Mr Goldin, lived in Cambridge for four years and England became a second home to her family.

Ms Kaufman called for her brothers body to be returned for a proper burial.

This is the right way, and we are here to cry for humanitarian rights of our children that are being abused by Hamas terrorists, Ms Kaufman said.

Ill cry it even 10 more years from now until everyone is back home because theres no way that were going to give up our kids, no way.

British-Israeli citizen Ditza Or, mother of hostage Avinatan Or, said: Before October 7 I was Ditza Or, with a full life, a profession.

But since October 7, Im only the mother of Avinatan. 24 /7 I advocate for him.

Ditza Or, mother of Avinatan Or, at the Israeli embassy in London (Yui Mok/PA)

Avinatan Or was kidnapped along with his girlfriend, Noa Argamani, at the Supernova music festival in southern Israel on October 7.

His girlfriend has since been returned, but was separated from Mr Or.

Mr Or turned 32 years old in February.

When it was his birthday, I just wanted to give him a warm shower, or some of my chicken soup, or at least five minutes in the daylight, Ms Or said.

Of course I couldnt.

She added: Its important to bring the world to its peace and harmony, but first, bring all our children home, and then go on.

In a statement at the UN Security Council last week, UK permanent representative to the UN Barbara Woodward said the Government welcomed the return of hostages in phase one of the ceasefire deal.

And we call for the release of all the remaining hostages, including Avinatan Or, who also has links to the UK, Ms Woodward said.

Kochav Levinson, centre, father of Shay Levinson (Yui Mok/PA)

Kochav Levinson, the father of Shay Levinson, who was killed in southern Israel on October 7, said it is appalling that he has to hold a picture of his son.

The terrorist organisation Hamas managed to reduce my son to a poster. My son is not a poster, he told reporters.

Mr Levinson, who has British nationality, called for all hostages to be released at once.

Every decent person, I believe, should say, and shout out that there should be no conditions to release all the hostages at once, Mr Levinson said.

No deal, no negotiation, simply release them at once. I mean, in one bus in one go.

Noga Gur-Arye, the aunt of hostage Alon Ohel, told reporters her nephew has been injured while being held hostage.

The 24-year-old musician was captured at the Supernova festival on October 7.

Noga Gur-Arye, aunt of Alon Ohel (Yui Mok/PA)

He has a shrapnel in his eye and also shrapnels in his body that were not treated from day one. He didnt get any treatment from the time that he was taken.

His life is in danger, and Im sitting here and speaking with you, and hes there, undergoing those unbearable conditions that I cant even imagine what hes going through right now.

This is the most important thing that Im doing right now in my life, trying to save my nephews life.

Israel said on Sunday that a new US proposal calls for extending the ceasefires first phase through Ramadan  the Muslim holy month that began over the weekend  and the Jewish Passover holiday, which ends on April 20.

Under that proposal, Hamas would release half the hostages on the first day and the rest when an agreement is reached on a permanent ceasefire, Mr Netanyahu said.
Halle Berry and Adrien Brody have recreated their passionate Oscars moment from more than two decades ago as they arrived on the 2025 red carpet.

Brody is up for best actor for The Brutalist, which sees him play a Hungarian-Jewish immigrant who arrives in the US after the horrors of the Second World War.

The US actor, 51, is the youngest actor to have won best actor, previously winning aged 29 for Holocaust drama The Pianist.

During the 2003 ceremony, he kissed Oscar-winner Berry, who was presenting the award, following his win.

On Sunday, they met on the red carpet with Berry going in for a kiss, while Brodys partner British fashion designer and actress Georgina Chapman cheered them on.

Berry, who won best actress for 2001 film Monsters Ball, has previously revealed that the on-stage moment was entirely unplanned.

The 58-year-old American actress said she wondered at the time what is happening, when Brody decided to kiss her.

Brody will find out on Sunday whether he has earned his second Oscar for The Brutalist.

Berry wrote on Instagram: Surprise @adrienbrody!! I had to get some payback.
The King is very conscious of his global responsibility and unique diplomatic role and determined to put that to use, a royal source has said.

Charles met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday  just a day after he received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Sandringham.

The King has been hailed for offering a show of solidarity to Mr Zelensky by warmly welcoming him on Sunday afternoon after the presidents dramatic Oval Office clash with US President Donald Trump.

The King meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Sandringham estate on Sunday (Joe Giddens/PA)

Diplomatic efforts on Ukraine have intensified as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned Europes leaders they stand at a crossroads in history and urged them to join his coalition of the willing.

Mr Trump meanwhile has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal.

A royal source said: It has been six days of royal diplomacy at its most delicate, deliberate and nuanced.

His Majesty is very conscious of his responsibility globally, regionally and nationally  and passionately engaged in all the detail.

The King gave a warm welcome to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Aaron Chown/PA)

The source added: As a global statesman and a head of state for both the UK and Canada, the Kings role is highly significant, and His Majesty is determined to play his part, within appropriate parameters.

His role by necessity and constitutional obligation is to offer symbolic gestures, rather than express comment.

Although the King must remain politically neutral, he is able to advise and warn his ministers  including his prime ministers  when necessary.

The source described the Kings audiences with Mr Zelensky and Mr Trudeau as being routine but highly significant, given the global context.

US President Donald Trump is presented with a letter from the King inviting him to make an unprecedented second state visit to the UK (Carl Court/PA)

Details of what is discussed at private audiences are not shared by Buckingham Palace, but it is understood that the challenges Canada faces with its nearest neighbour the US were high on the agenda, as was support for Ukraine.

The King, who has invited Mr Trump to pay an unprecedented second state visit to the UK, is increasingly being seen as a unifying figure despite the turmoil on the worlds political stage, through the royal familys so-called soft power diplomacy.

The audiences required high level engagement and high level sensitivity, the source said.

Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened to make Canada the 51st state of America, claiming that without a massive subsidy from the US it ceases to exist as a viable country.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau shakes hands with the King at Sandringham (Aaron Chown/PA)

Mr Trudeau, who flew to London to join the emergency defence summit of European leaders at the weekend, had said he would raise his concerns on the matter with Charles, who is King of Canada.

Mr Trump has also vowed to impose tariffs on imported goods from Canada as soon as Tuesday amid his concerns over border crossings.

The King was planning to carry out an overseas tour to Canada last year, but this was postponed due to his cancer diagnosis.

There are hopes the visit could happen in 2026 after the Canadian elections this year, with the King said to be wholly committed to and enthusiastic about the prospect of returning for the first time as the countrys monarch.

Charles as the Prince of Wales with Justin Trudeau in Ottawa, during his three-day trip to Canada in 2022 (Chris Jackson/PA)

Visiting Canada remains one of his key international priorities, the source said.

The King sent a message to the people of Canada in February to mark the 60th anniversary of the Canadian flag, saying it was a symbol of a proud, resilient and compassionate country.

He gave a warm welcome to Mr Trudeau as he greeted him on Monday morning, giving a hearty laugh as the Canadian leader gestured towards him with a pointed figure and shook the monarchs hand.

Mr Trudeau also clasped the Kings hand in both of his in a demonstration of the ease of their relationship as the pair met in the Saloon at Sandringham House.

The King sits with Justin Trudeau (Aaron Chown/PA)

The King and Mr Trudeau were shown sitting side by side in comfy patterned armchairs in the room, which was brimming with furnishings and photographs.

Between them was a small wooden antique table, with a large lamp and a dish filled with potpourri.

In the background was a grand wooden desk, home to a large green plant with small delicate pink flowers, and to the side a grand piano adorned with black and white family portraits.

Sandringham House has been the private home for five generations of British monarchs for more than 160 years and now belongs to the King.

Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney said for Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented on Mr Trumps threats, he can only act on the advice of Canadas prime minister.

The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty, Mr Kenney posted on X.
The UK ambassador to the US Lord Mandelson has been slapped down by a defence minister for suggesting that Ukraine should commit to a ceasefire before Russia.

Lord Mandelsons comments do not represent Government policy, armed forces minister Luke Pollard said.

The ambassador used an interview with American outlet ABC to say that Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky should give unequivocal backing to US President Donald Trumps peace initiative.

Lord Mandelson, left, with Sir Keir Starmer at the ambassadors residence in Washington (Carl Court/PA)

Mr Trumps overtures to Russias Vladimir Putin, with the possibility of Ukraine being sidelined in talks led by the White House and the Kremlin, has alarmed European leaders.

Lord Mandelson said a very radical reset was needed following the Oval Office row between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

The reset has to consist of the United States and Ukraine getting back on the same page, President Zelensky giving his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President Trump is taking to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine, he said.

And the Europeans too, they need to back the calls for a ceasefire, and  by the way  I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow.

But asked whether Lord Mandelsons remarks reflected Government policy, Mr Pollard told Sky News: No. Its certainly right that Ukrainians want peace. I think of all the people on our continent that want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

But were still in discussions, diplomatic engagement with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of that deal.

But its certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war.

Asked whether Lord Mandelson misspoke, he said: Thats not Government policy.
The directors of an Iranian film which won the animated short Oscar described their victory as a miracle having landed in Los Angeles just hours before.

Co-directors Hossein Molayemi and Shirin Sohani took to the stage after In The Shadow Of The Cypress took home the prize for the category.

The two almost missed the ceremony because of visa issues, which they referenced in their speech.

Believe me or not, three hours ago our plane landed in LA, said Molayemi, to gasps from the audience.

Its a miracle and speaking in front of this expectant audience is very hard for us.

The Oscar for Best Animated Short Film goes to Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi for IN THE SHADOW OF THE CYPRESS! #Oscars pic.twitter.com/0ctJ5SaIqE  The Academy (@TheAcademy) March 3, 2025

Until yesterday we hadnt even obtained our visa and we were totally disappointed and now we are standing here with this statuette in our hands.

Also, just the fact that we managed to make this film under the extraordinary circumstances of our country is a miracle.

Yes, if we persevere and remain faithful, miracles do happen.

The BBC reported that it had offered the directors the use of their LA office to get changed after they ran out of time to get to their hotel.

Molayemi continued: We are going to dedicate our film and this precious award to all those who are still fighting their inner and outer battles heroically, and nobody knows about that. Especially to our fellow Iranians who are still suffering.

We are so grateful to the Academy and all those who supported us in this long journey, especially our families. Thank you very much indeed.
Oscar winner Morgan Freeman paid tribute to actor Gene Hackman saying he was a generous performer who had won the hearts of film lovers around the world.

Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead, along with one of their dogs, at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 26.

Taking to the stage at the 97th Oscars, ahead of the In Memoriam segment, Freeman, 87, said this week our community lost a giant and I lost a dear friend.

American actor Gene Hackman (Anthony Harvey/PA)

He added: I had the pleasure of working with Gene on two films, Unforgiven and Under Suspicion, and like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer and a man whose gifts elevated everyones work.

He received two Oscars, but more importantly, he won the hearts of film lovers all over the world. Gene always said, I dont think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work.

So I think I speak for us all when I say, Gene, youll be remembered for that and for so much more. Rest in peace, my friend.

Veteran Hollywood film stars paid tribute following his death including Clint Eastwood, who directed Hackman in western film Unforgiven, and Francis Ford Coppola, who wrote and directed the Oscar-nominated 1974 mystery thriller The Conversation, starring Hackman.

The film star, who was widely respected as one of the greatest actors of his generation, was a five-time Oscar nominee who won best actor in a leading role for The French Connection in 1972 and best actor in a supporting role for Unforgiven two decades later.

Morgan Freeman speaks about Gene Hackman during the Oscars (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Other stars featured in the In Memoriam segment included Dame Maggie Smith, known for prominent roles in the Harry Potter films and Downton Abbey, who died aged 89 last year.

Also remembered was Oscar nominee Dame Joan Plowright, who died aged 95 in January.

The British actress, who was married to Lord Laurence Olivier, was known for her Golden Globe award-winning performances in TV biopic Stalin and Enchanted April, for which she was also nominated for an Academy Award.

The segment also paid tribute to The Hunger Games actor Donald Sutherland, Blades Kris Kristofferson, The Shining actress Shelley Duvall, Mulholland Drive director David Lynch, and more from the world of film.

The awards ceremony, this year hosted by US comedian Conan OBrien, has recognised excellence in cinematic achievements since 1929.
Three men snatched Ming dynasty antiques worth more than 3.5 million US dollars (2.78 million) from a Swiss museum shortly before they allegedly plotted to murder a career criminal convicted of Britains largest cash robbery, a court has heard.

Former cage fighter Paul Allen, then 41, was paralysed for life after he was shot in the neck in the kitchen of his large detached rented home in Woodford Green, east London, on July 11 2019.

He had moved to the area after serving a prison sentence for his part in the 54 million Securitas raid in Kent.

Louis Ahearne, 36, his brother Stewart Ahearne, 46, and Daniel Kelly, 46, are accused of plotting to murder him with others unknown.

On Monday, jurors heard agreed facts about the defendants previous criminality relating to a burglary at the Museum of Far Eastern Arts in Geneva on June 1 2019  a month before Mr Allen was shot.

Three pieces of Ming-era porcelain were snatched from the museum with a combined insurance value of 3,580,000 US dollars.

The items were an early 15th century bottle with a secret pomegranate decoration; a small wine cup known as the chicken cup; and a 14th century An Huan phoenix design bowl.

The items, including this Chinese Ming Dynasty vase, were worth around 2.78 million (Handout/PA)

According to the facts read out by the prosecution, Kelly and Louis Ahearne had flown into Geneva from London the day before the raid.

That afternoon, Louis Ahearn had carried out reconnaissance at the museum and made a video of Room 3 on his mobile phone.

The next day, Stewart Ahearne joined the other two defendants and hired a Renault at the airport, jurors were told.

They went on to buy tools and clothes before carrying out the burglary at 11.21pm.

Jurors heard they arrived in the Renault equipped with masks, gloves, two forehead lamps, an angle-grinder, crowbar and sledgehammer.

They entered the building through a hole which they made by smashing two lower panels on the museums main door.

Police later identified DNA around the hole as belonging to Stewart Ahearne, the court was told.

The defendants headed to Room 3, which was referred to as the Ming Porcelain room, forced open display case 13 using the sledgehammer and crowbar and seized the three Ming dynasty antiques.

Afterwards, attempts were made to dispose of the stolen goods, jurors were told.

The defendants flew to Hong Kong on June 14 2019 where they attempted to sell the phoenix bowl at an auction house.

On October 16 2020, Stewart Ahearne was arrested with another man at a London hotel as they tried to sell the Ming vase to an undercover police officer.

A later search of a property revealed a passport in the name of Stewart Ahearne and a book on Ming Dynasty antiques, the court was told.

Previously, jurors have heard how two of the defendants were involved in another burglary in Kent the day before Mr Allen was shot.

Former cage fighter Paul Allen was convicted for his part in Britains largest ever cash robbery (Met Police/PA)

A Renault Captur was hired by Stewart Ahearne from a dealership in Dartford and used by the other two defendants in a burglary on a gated community in Kent, the court has heard.

The prosecution has alleged the background to the shooting was that Mr Allen was a sophisticated career criminal.

He was convicted at Woolwich Crown Court for his part in Britains biggest armed robbery, at Securitas in Kent, in which 54 million in cash was stolen, much of which has never been recovered, the court has heard.

By 2019, Mr Allen had been released from prison and moved from south London to a large detached property in Woodford, north-east London, where he lived with his partner and young children.

The defendants had allegedly travelled from their home turf in the Woolwich area of south-east London, through the Blackwall Tunnel to the victims new home in Malvern Drive as part of the planning and execution of the conspiracy to murder him.

Louis Ahearne, from Greenwich, south-east London, and Stewart Ahearne and Kelly, both of no fixed address, have denied conspiring to murder Mr Allen between June 26 and July 12 2019.

The Old Bailey trial continues.
Nearly 600 migrants arrived in the UK on Sunday after crossing the Channel, according to data released by the Home Office.

Figures published on Monday indicated that some 592 migrants arrived on March 2 across 11 boats, the highest number of arrivals on a single day so far this year.

It takes the total number of arrivals this year to 2,716. Before Sunday the previous daily high for arrivals was 260, which was recorded on January 13.

(PA Graphics)

This is 20% higher than at the same point last year, when the total stood at 2,255, but 8% lower than at this stage in 2023, when the total was 2,953.

French authorities have also released a statement on recuse operations that took place overnight from March 1 into March 2.

Migrants on a number of boats requested assistance from the French authorities through the night, including two on one boat who were suspected of having hypothermia.

Sundays figures take the total number of crossings since Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister to 25,958.

A Home Office source said that after a period of cold and windy weather it was always likely that the first day of sunshine and calm seas would bring a surge in arrivals.

The source added: But after seven years of these crossings  we need to get to a position where our border security is no longer dependent on the weather.

That is why we have to double down on our strategy to smash the smuggling gangs, building on the success of the Home Secretarys visit to France last week, and the planned strengthening of French enforcement efforts in the Channel.

The daily total is still some way off the highest number of daily crossings recorded, which was 1,305 on September 3 2022.

Downing Street insisted the Government is taking action to curb crossings, addressing the chaos in the asylum system and stepping up returns of people with no right to be in the UK, but there are no quick fixes to the global problem of illegal migration.

Our new, stronger enforcement plans with France to tackle people-smuggling gangs. pic.twitter.com/D2PXmPGVef  Home Office (@ukhomeoffice) March 3, 2025

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Were taking the measures that will ultimately deter and smash people-smuggling gangs that have been plying this illegal trade.

Were extending a deal with France to to step up our work with the French to further smash the gangs and stop the small boats crossings.

A Home Office spokesperson said: We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security.

We are delivering real change in our approach through legislation to create new tools, powers, offences and enforcement action which will keep us one step ahead of the people-smuggling gangs.
Andrew Tate says he is not a coward - Vadim Ghirda/AP

Andrew Tate has claimed that he has never spoken to Donald Trump and vowed to return to Romania to face police.

In his first interview since arriving in the United States last week, the self-proclaimed misogynist influencer said he would obey his bail conditions and fly back to Romania, where he is under investigation for sex trafficking.

Mr Tate said he was not afraid of the British Government amid calls for him to be extradited to the UK to face trial.

Id like to be optimistic and believe that Donald Trump saw this garbage, and maybe [asked] some questions. I like that idea, but I dont know. I had no confirmation. I have no idea, he told the PBD Podcast.

I am going back. Im going to fly back and obey my bail conditions, Im not running from anything, because Im not a coward.

While under investigation for sex trafficking including minors, across Romania, the UK, and the US, Mr Tate and his brother Tristan were barred from leaving Romania.

They were released from house arrest last month but the travel ban, which lasted for almost two and a half years, was only lifted after the US government is said to have intervened.

Andrew Tate arrived in the USA last week - Alon Skuy/Getty Images North America

Romania then returned the passports of Andrew, 38, and Tristan, 36, and granted them permission to travel, with victims fearing the pair will never face justice.

Romanian prosecutors said the cases for human trafficking and rape against them were still active and that they must still attend court hearings in the country.

The Tates touched down in Fort Lauderdale at the same time Sir Keir Starmer met with Donald Trump at the White House.

During a press conference with his British counterpart, Mr Trump denied any knowledge of the Tate brothers arrival in the US.

Asked if his administration pressured the Romanian government to release them, he said: I know nothing about that. I dont know, youre saying hes on a plane right now?

I just know nothing about it. Well check it out. Well let you know.

Its important justice is done, Sir Keir said in relation to their case.

Andrew Tate racks up 12m YouTube views

Mr Tate has racked up more than 12 billion views on YouTube with openly misogynist lifestyle advice to young men.

Britain is understood to be considering submitting an extradition request for the brothers in a move that could sour relations between the two leaders, insiders have suggested.

Marcel Ciolacu, the Romanian prime minister, has denied being put under pressure by the US to relax the travel ban.

In Britain, four of the alleged victims called on Sir Keir to challenge the Trump administration and said they were retraumatised by their apparent escape from justice.

The brothers were accused of rape, coercive control and assault in a separate civil case in the High Court brought by four British women.

Appearing to respond to the threats of extrication, Mr Tate said: Are they going to try and get me? Probably.

If I go to the UK will I ever get out? Probably not.

Am I afraid of them? No.

A Home Office spokesman said: As a matter of long-standing policy and practice, the UK will neither confirm nor deny that an extradition request has been made or received.

Given the ongoing Romanian investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further.
Keir Starmer, centre, with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Emmanuel Macron in London this week, has become a player in efforts to secure a fair peace deal for Ukraine. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty

Britain is back. That was the concise verdict of Eleonore Caroit, the vice-chair of the French national assemblys foreign affairs committee. And the optics of Sundays crisis talks on Ukraine bore this out, with Keir Starmer at the very centre of the leaders joint photo.

You are back on the scene, of the leadership in Europe, Caroit told the BBC on Monday morning. James MacClearly, the Liberal Democrat MP who speaks for the party on Europe, was equally adamant, praising the prime minister for taking this chance to bring us back to the heart of Europe where we belong.

So is this a post-Brexit turning point? Is the UK, which since 2016 has become accustomed to watching from afar as European decisions are made, at the heart of the action once more?

The slightly unsatisfactory answer is: it depends. There are, however, a few things that seem clear.

The first is that Starmer, in his self-declared mission to be a bridge between Europe and Donald Trumps tempestuous America, has made himself a significant player in efforts to ensure a fair and secure peace deal for Ukraine.

While the UK prime minister arrived at the White House two days after Emmanuel Macron and was somewhat less ostentatious with the tactile Trump whispering than the French president, he was arguably received with greater warmth by the US president.

And after his attempts to draw Trump into backing a peace deal were derailed by Volodymyr Zelenskyys abrasive treatment a day later, Starmer tried to mend the damage, receiving the Ukrainian president warmly in London and speaking by phone to Trump on consecutive days.

The other point of general agreement is that in trying to keep a peace plan involving the US on track while also pushing ahead with European efforts at Sundays conference in London, Starmer has shown the skills of a natural diplomat.

Beyond general cross-party support for his plan, Starmer has been praised by the likes of the Conservative former defence secretary Ben Wallace, the Tory backbench grandee Roger Gale and Simon Fraser, the former head of the Foreign Office, for, as the latter put it, having played a blinder in recent days.

But whether this heralds anything more permanent, let alone if it could mark any softening of EU attitudes as Starmer embarks on the longer-term project of easing post-Brexit ties with Brussels, remains to be seen.

Starmer has done it all very well, but its partly a question of circumstance, in that the reason London could convene this event is that the EU clearly isnt the optimal institution to handle all the things that are going on, said Anand Menon, the director of the thinktank UK in a Changing Europe and professor of European politics and foreign affairs at Kings College London.

Brexit didnt stop us collaborating very closely with the EU over Ukraine anyway. The really interesting issue will be when it comes to the economics of defence  that is to say, the money the European Commission is pouring into joint procurement schemes and things like that, because at the moment they are limited to members of the single market.

Related: Western countries must keep military aid flowing to Ukraine, Starmer warns

Even if the UK decided to take part in joint defence procurement with the EU, Menon added, it seemed unlikely the EU would be tempted to pull back on the red lines it had set out in terms of updating the UKs post-Brexit relations.

If youre fighting off populists [in other EU countries] who are saying, We want a looser relationship with the European Union, we dont want all these rules and regulations, what you dont want to provide them [with] is an economically successful Britain that seems to be getting the best of both worlds, he said.

There are also the domestic political considerations. Starmer has been very clear he has no plans to relitigate Brexit, and the threat from Reform UK in many Labour seats will sharpen minds still further.

But at the same time, it is fair to say that Sundays summit showed the definitive end to the immediate post-Brexit era under the likes of Boris Johnson, where, as Menon put it, it was a politically good thing to be at loggerheads with Europe.

A whole series of international orthodoxies have been overturned by the Ukraine war and now the second Trump presidency. And one of them might be a UK edging further into the European spotlight. On those terms at least, Britain is back.
Sir Keir Starmer is working on a peace plan with Emmanuel Macron which would see British and French troops in Ukraine - Neil Hall/Shutterstock

It was the day Britain finally put Brexit behind it and assumed its new role in Europe.

The Prime Minister welcomed a host of European leaders to a London summit with nothing less than the security of the Continent at stake.

As he sat down in the grand surroundings of Lancaster House, Sir Keir Starmer had Emmanuel Macron to his right and the under-pressure Volodymyr Zelensky to his left.

The three leaders are working on a peace plan for Ukraine to present to Donald Trump. It includes British and French troops as part of a peacekeeping force.

Credit: Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, BBC

The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, Sir Keir said. Europe would do the heavy lifting but it needed US security backstops to be credible.

Others could join in the future but for now the coalition of the willing is only Paris and London, the Continents two nuclear and major military powers.

Sir Keir said some countries had signalled they were willing to help.

Europes new world order is being built before our eyes. America a much more distant ally, Europe taking more responsibility for its own security through a kind of mini Nato.

That order will be led by Britain and France but also Germany, once Friedrich Merz is installed as the new chancellor. Mr Merz has already suggested Berlin sharing the British and French nuclear deterrent.

The EU will play an influential role in raising finance for defence spending but, when security is at stake, the capitals take the lead.

Brexit is simply irrelevant in this context. Rows over cherry-picking, cakes and sausages are forgotten.

Previous governments said the UK was leaving the EU, not Europe but in the aftermath of the painful divorce, it went missing from the world stage.

Britain took almost a decade to fully emerge from its post-Brexit defensive crouch in foreign policy.

Now it is leading the pack, putting, on paper at least, the lives of its soldiers at risk for European security.

I do think the United Kingdom should step up and lead. We have done that historically as a nation, and we need to do it again, the Prime Minister said.

Mr Trump has forced Europe to face the cold realities of standing on its own two feet, which will mean huge increases in defence spending and arms manufacturing.

Sir Keir said Europe would do the heavy lifting but needed Donald Trump to agree to US security backstops to be credible - Carl Court/Getty Images

Mr Macron believes it could take five to 10 years to build a European force capable of acting independently of Washington.

He will seek to drive home the Prime Ministers call for a post-ceasefire European troop deployment at an EU summit in Brussels next week. Like Sir Keir, he will call on his allies to increase defence spending and arm Kyiv to the teeth.

Sir Keirs next job is to orchestrate a reconciliation between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

Behind the smiles and the show of European unity, he will have urged Mr Zelensky to swallow his pride and repair the rift with Washington as soon as possible.
Starmer

Keir Starmer declared at his Lancaster House summit that We are at a crossroads in history, leading Labour spin-doctors to brief the papers that the UK has been placed on a war footing.

Their claim is laughable. Starmers 0.2 percentage point increase in defence spending isnt enough to stop the size of the Army or Navy being cut. It may just about cover replenishing the military equipment we have already donated to Ukraine. Once you subtract spending on our creaking nuclear deterrent, we are still only spending about 1.5 per cent of GDP on our conventional military.

After decades of underinvestment (yes, including by my own party), and with threats growing, we need to hit 3 per cent urgently. But how? The markets wont let Rachel Reeves borrow more. Further tax rises would be the death knell for our economy. So the only option is to cut spending. If Labour implemented the oven-ready welfare reforms Mel Stride left, they would find savings they could immediately divert. Instead, we are currently in the farcical situation where expenditure on disability benefits exceeds defence spending.

Then theres Starmers vague talk of deploying British troops and planes in Ukraine. But the strategy is unclear. Does the UK have the resources to sustain a credible deterrence force? What are the chances of a direct engagement with Russian forces  and how would we fare without US firepower? What is the rationale for deploying troops now, when we never have before? If the coalition of the willing are attacked in a non-member state, what would Nato do? Would deploying resources to Ukraine come at the expense of support for Baltic Nato member states?

These are hard questions that must be answered. They all point to heeding caution.

Its a truism of British politics that the biggest decisions face the least scrutiny. The Equality Act; the net zero target; the disastrous point-based immigration system  all rushed through without serious debate. The decision to commit UK personnel in Ukraine risks falling into that category. If Starmer was serious about placing the UK on a war footing, he would not have Ed Miliband as his Energy Secretary. He would ditch the net zero crusade  tantamount to unilateral economic disarmament - and drive forward the reindustrialisation of Britain through cheap and reliable energy powered by small nuclear reactors. The very real prospect of the UK being unable to produce weapons-grade steel domestically would prompt a radical intervention.

We need to go back to basics: national defence begins at home. A country that takes domestic security seriously would not allow tens of thousands of unvetted illegal migrants into our country  yet small boat arrivals are up 28 per cent under Labour. It would not allow the fragmentation of our society from unprecedented levels of legal migration, with some newcomers displaying scant loyalty to the UK. National pride and respect would be explicitly promoted.

Nor would it allow China  one of the biggest threats to the UK  to build a massive spy-hub to expand its espionage programme, as Labour seem intent on. It would laugh Mauritius out of the room for suggesting British sovereign territory be surrendered to a partner of China.

The time for empty talk has long passed. If Starmer is serious about UK defence, he must do things differently.
The opening of the exhibit Trace/s Family History Research and the Legacy of Slavery in Brooklyn at the Brooklyn public library in New York on 30 January 2025. Photograph: Gregg Richards

The truth is often hiding in plain sight.

Not until the shutdown during the pandemic did I even notice the farmhouse in Brooklyns Prospect Park, nestled behind shrubbery, trees, and wrought iron fencing. It was home to the Lefferts family, descendants of the Dutch settlers who had first arrived in 1624 in what would become New York.

In late 2020, the landmark plaque presented a fairly innocuous narrative about the house, noting, that both indentured white[s] and enslaved black[s] built it and worked on the surrounding land. For the average passerby, the blurbs offered a chronology centered on settlement, conquest, and innovations in farming. For the discerning viewer, they were a mere summary of how Lenape lands were seized by Dutch colonists then British colonists, flattening the weight and presence of history at their feet.

But a recent exhibit, Trace/s: Family History Research and the Legacy of Slavery in Brooklyn, underscores just how incomplete the record remains, and how it fails to account for the lives and humanity of the formerly enslaved.

Related: Looking back on landmarks of US Black history from an era of erasure  in pictures

The modest exhibition, at the Center for Brooklyn History through August, contains 10 archival documents: bills of sales, journals, manumissions, newspaper clippings, photographs and ledgers. These items are paired with striking oil portraits of two representative members of Brooklyn families whose legacies are inextricably bounded together by slavery: John A Lott and Mildred Jones, a Brooklyn-born descendant of Samuel Anderson, who was enslaved by the Lott family.

Trace/s asks its viewers to examine the archive and to face unsettling truths about the United States, as well as to upend dominant and simplistic narratives about the voracity of antislavery forces of the industrial north, namely New York Citys history with centuries of enslavement.

The Lefferts House, preserved for posterity and listed in the US registry of historic places, once occupied the present-day intersection of Maple Street and Flatbush Avenue, and was moved to its permanent home in Prospect Park in 1918. At one point as many as 25 enslaved persons toiled the farmland during the era of the houses construction from 1783 to 1827, the year that New York state formally abolished slavery.

New Yorks emancipation history was fraught with the demands of enslavers, who claimed that freedom for enslaved people was at odds with a 1799 law that facilitated gradual emancipation for certain enslaved children and promised their forced labor until their mid-20s. In practice, emancipation for the formerly enslaved in 1827 New York didnt materially change their lot. Many remained in servitude through the 1830s and 1840s in the Brooklyn areas known today as Flatbush and Flatlands.

Along with their southern counterparts, the planter class of wealthy families of Brooklyn profited greatly from slavery and built generational wealth through exploitation. Slave-owning families constituted 40% of Brooklyn households. As their wealth accrued, they consolidated civic and social power, and their names are known today because they are emblazoned on street signs and subway stops, landmarks and monuments throughout Brooklyn: Bergen, Nostrand, Stuyvesant, Vanderbilt, Van Brunt. To continue to describe the colonial era lands of Brooklyn as farmland, as the exhibit does, obfuscates the full story of New York Citys history and relationship to slavery. In the colonial era and throughout the 19th century, Brooklyns farmland was the second-largest producer of food for the rapidly expanding city. These farms were plantations.

The evidence of enslaved Black peoples existence and subjugation  usually their names  are almost always found in the records white people kept. But what does one make of the absence of evidence? One of the documents on view includes Lefferts family papers of an 1814 bill of sale of Mercy, a nine-year-old girl. She was sold by Phebe Lefferts to Abraham Vanderveer, and the documents included a notable stipulation of the conditions of her servitude. Mercy would be taught to read and write, as well as have sufficient meat and drink, washing, lodging, and apparel until she turned 18. The magistrate was also instructed to add that Mercy should behave herself.

These caveats outlined in the sale require discernment from historians and archivists to telegraph to viewers the intimate nature of relationships between enslavers and the enslaved. Could Mercy have been the child of the enslaver? With New Yorks incremental moves toward abolition, was it Phebe Lefferts intention to ensure that Mercy was cared for under the servitude of her new enslaver? To insist, for instance, that an enslaved child was to be taught to read and write, which was illegal, might suggest as much. What happened to Mercy after the sale, especially when she turned 18 in 1832, five years after New York State abolition law took effect, remains unknown.

Trace/s tries to address the absence of the enslaved and their stories within the archive through newspaper clippings from one of the largest local papers of the time, the Brooklyn Daily Eagle. An 1898 profile of Samuel Anderson, under the headline, Born A Slave in Flatbush: Uncle Sammys Reminiscences of Slavery Days, aims to give the formerly enslaved some voice and agency. Still, the story of Anderson, who was 88 at the time of publication, was filtered through the lens of whiteness.

While a remarkable document, the article is an example of what Toni Morrison wrote about in The Site of Memory, when, in slave narratives, the authors censor and shield the reader from the brutality of their bondage, saying: Let us drop a veil over these proceedings too terrible to relate. Morrison adds: In shaping the experience to make it palatable to those who were in a position to alleviate it, they were silent about many things. The exhibit elucidates this reality.

Related: An unassuming building in New York City educated Black leaders. What will become of it?

Trace/s acknowledges the decades-long efforts of local activists and historians who have been working to recover the record of the formerly enslaved and their descendants. Groups such as the Afro American Historical and Genealogical Society, formed in 1977, have sought to address the complications of the traditional archives, underscoring how racisms long reach impedes this kind of research for Black Americans.

In her 1882 book, The Social History of Flatbush, and Manners and Customs of the Dutch Settlers in Kings County, Gertrude Lefferts Vanderbilt bemoaned the erasure of Dutch influences in a rapidly modernizing Brooklyn at the end of the 19th century, writing, Nearly every trace of Dutch descent has been swept away; there only remain the reminiscences and traditions, while the old family names mark the localities still, as the projecting peaks mark the submerged rock. All that relates to home and kindred has its interest, especially when we know that the home is soon to be broken up and the ties of kindred sundered.

Vanderbilts lament in this volume seems melodramatic. Twenty-first century Brooklyns streets and neighborhoods are imprinted with the names of the settlers and their descendants, with busts and plaques aplomb to honor and acknowledge their lives. The evidence of their existence is everywhere. Their final resting place at the Flatbush Reformed Dutch church cemetery, at the intersection of Church and Flatbush, is preserved to this day.

That fact stands in stark contrast to untold hundreds of formerly enslaved and free Blacks who walked the roads and paths of pre-civil war Brooklyn. In 2021, a grassroots campaign sought to draw attention to this history legacy hidden in plain sight by the residents of neighborhoods in Bedford Stuyvesant, Crown Heights and Flatbush. When excavation for a new housing development began, a burial ground for enslaved Africans was uncovered. Local groups pushed city officials to pause construction and later secured a $4m commitment from New York Citys parks department for a memorial in 2022. But its unclear when those plans will be implemented.

This is the powerful mark that Trace/s impresses upon its viewers. It is a call to all descendants to look backward in order to move forward.
Critical race theory ideology has shifted activists towards ever more radical politics - MediaNews Group RM

When affirmative action, the predecessor of DEI, was first implemented in the early 1970s, the goal was to address cruel centuries of oppression of African Americans. It was widely supported by many white Americans, who saw it as a short-term palliative.

But in recent years, affirmative action has merged with a more radical academic dogma known as critical race theory. At its core, this belief system deplores America as a racist confection, a country that will never be able to address its evils without abandoning the merit system and the notion of fair play. Critical race theory (CRT) has grown into a lucrative industry, as schools, companies and governments raced to implement DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) policies and imposed Mao-like struggle sessions on employees to hold the party line.

Today, thankfully, CRT now faces a serious decline. Theoretician Ibrahim X Kendi recently closed his Boston University anti-racist research centre, moving it to Howard. President Trump seems determined to wipe out CRT and DEI among anyone in the federal orbit, which could include the very universities that nurtured it. The administration is perfectly aware that DEI and CRT policies are widely unpopular among most Americans.

One contributor to the backlash has been how CRT ideology has shifted activists towards ever more radical politics, particularly with regard to Israel and Jewish Americans. In California, an incoming new ethnic studies curriculum for schools has been accused of categorising all white people, no matter their origins, as enjoying white privilege. In this world-view, groups like Jews do not suffer discrimination, which might have come as a surprise to our immigrant forebears as well as to those who are still facing anti-Semitism today.

CRT now faces a serious decline - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP

Throughout academia, DEI and other race-based programmes have emerged as fulcrums of anti-Israel, and often anti-Semitic action. Even on my normally sane campus, our DEI unit at Chapman awarded this years Dr Martin Luther King Jr Community Service Award to the universitys chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) .

Given numerous instances of harassment of Jewish students and the SJPs celebration of the October 7 pogrom, this was clearly absurd. Our President, Daniele Struppa, effectively rescinded the order, apologising to Jewish students and faculty, to the horror of many at the schools ultra-woke Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

In California, Jewish legislators are campaigning to keep CRTs pernicious influence contained, and to mitigate the worst consequences of the new ethnic studies guidelines. But the CRT radicals remain deeply entrenched and well-placed within school bureaucracies and the teachers unions. Many blue states still embrace policies that discriminate on the basis of race and gender. The Biden administration to its shame promoted critical race theory. Much the same has occurred in the likes of Minnesota.

So even as Trump and his allies seek to counter DEI and CRT, its going to be a tough struggle at some elite universities. In some cases, anti-Jewish sentiment is widespread. Jewish students face professors hectoring against Israel and demonstrators who have blocked off access to school buildings for Zionists. Erwin Chemerinsky, Berkeleys Law School dean and well-known progressive, wrote in the LA Times that nothing has prepared me for the anti-Semitism now clearly evident at Berkeley and other campuses.

Despite these outrages, it wont be easy to remove these antics. Already some universities are rallying to keep discriminatory practices, even in red states. Their oligarchic funding is unlikely to run out in the near future. At least until Trump, Leftist activism was often subsidised by federal taxes, something the public had little notion about.

In the long term, however, the decline of CRT should mark a step towards a society closer to Dr Kings ethos, particularly critical for a country that may become predominantly non-white by mid-century. Crowing about the end of the US white majority might be popular in ethnic studies departments but has not translated into a better life for most minorities. Americas great strength is that it was not founded on the basis of any particular ethnicity and has successfully evolved to become more inclusive; a fundamentally racist society would not be such a lure for new Latin American, African or Asian immigrants.

Getting rid of DEI, CRT and their offsprings is one step towards this new post-racial future. It represents the rejection of the sectarianism preached by racial justice activists in the West, Hamas and other jihadis, and by far-Right sectarians across the West. America, indeed, all of Western society, needs not more separation but more unforced integration.

CRT needs to be returned to the obscurity of its origins in the university hothouse. What is needed instead is a commitment to help raise people from poor circumstances, whichever race they happen to be. True social justice cannot be accomplished by turning people against one another.

Joel Kotkin is presidential fellow in urban futures at Chapman University and senior research fellow at the Civitas Institute at the University of Texas
The boat, which was carrying 33 people including eight children, made several desperate calls to the coastguard. Photograph: Francois Lo Presti/AFP/Getty Images

An inquiry into the biggest ever loss of life in a migrant dinghy in the Channel has heard that it was entirely predictable that a catastrophic event involving mass casualties would occur.

The Cranston inquiry began hearing evidence on Monday into how at least 27 people drowned on 24 November 2021 in the narrow stretch of water separating the UK from France.

The inquiry heard that the boat, thought to be carrying 33 people, including 13 women and eight children, was wholly unsuitable. Along with the 27 confirmed dead, four people remain missing, while two survived.

Related: Record number of children died crossing Channel last year, says UN

The dinghy, named Charlie by rescue services, was one of 209 boats that made the crossing in November 2021, the highest number recorded in a single month.

Although in the years following the mass drowning at least 128 more migrants have lost their lives in the Channel, according to the UNs International Organisation for Migration, the November 2021 incident remains the largest single loss of life since migrant crossings of the Channel in small boats began in 2018.

The inquiry has been told about a litany of failings, including poor communication and understaffing at the Dover coastguard on the night, and a failure of Home Office intelligence sharing relating to the stricken dinghy. It emerged that Charlie was confused by authorities with another dinghy named Lima, which 35 people were successfully rescued from.

Rory Phillips KC, counsel to the inquiry, said: No one in the UK was looking for Charlie and no one came to their rescue.

Instead incident Charlie was marked as resolved and closed.

Prior to the incident the Maritime and Coastguard Agency had flagged on its corporate risk register that it may become overwhelmed, resulting in loss of life. A request for more staff did not bear fruit, the inquiry heard.

The boat left the French coast around 10pm on the night of 23 November 2021. About three hours later it started taking in water. The passengers began making panicked calls.

In what is described as a harrowing call at around 1.30am, 16-year old Iraqi Kurd Mubin Rizghar Hussein told the coastguard that everyone was in the water and everything will be finished.

At 2.30am he made another desperate call once again raising the alarm. He said the passengers were finished and would die. He was asked by the coastguard to stop calling.

By 3.06am the boat was sinking and the last distress call was made at 3.11am.

Sonali Naik KC, counsel for survivor Issa Mohamed Omar and some of the bereaved relatives, told the inquiry that due to the multiple failings on the night of the mass drowning, including poor communication and understaffing, the entirely predictable, catastrophic event occurred. Omar said he felt part of the reason he survived was to be a voice for those who lost their lives.

Naik said that as early as September 2020 a lack of resources to rescue migrants in dinghies in distress had been flagged.

It was only a matter of time before authorities would have to deal with so-called non-survivors, she said.

The inquiry continues.
China already has the largest navy in the world, with 370 military vessels - Li Gang/Xinhua via AP, File

China is developing a new nuclear-powered aircraft carrier which would be larger and more advanced than any vessel in its fleet, in an attempt to keep pace with the US navy.

The new supercarrier would allow fighter jets to be launched from four parts of the flight deck, as opposed to its current ships which can only accommodate three, according to new satellite imagery reviewed by NBC News.

That would match the capability of USS Gerald R Ford, the largest and most advanced aircraft carrier in the US navy.

Images from the Dalian shipbuilding facility in north-east China show tracks or trenches in the snow, which appear to be related to a new catapult launch system.

The tracks in the snow at the Dalian facility, which may be linked to a new catapult launch system - Maxar Technologies

Analysts said that while the images did not show construction under way yet, they were an indication that China was moving forward with its ambitious plans.

We think this is them testing equipment and layouts for the upcoming Type 04 carrier, Michael Duitsman, a researcher at the James Martin Centre for Nonproliferation Studies in the US, told NBC.

Chinas first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, was commissioned in 2012 and its second, the Shandong, was launched in 2017. Both use the ski-jump method, which involves a ramp at the end of a short runway to propel planes upward.

The Dalian shipbuilding facility where a new nuclear-powered carrier could be developed - Maxar Technologies

The countrys third and most advanced carrier to date, the Fujian, launched in 2022 and was upgraded with electromagnetic catapults, which are more similar to the systems used on US ships.

All three of Chinas carriers are conventionally powered, unlike the upcoming one, which experts believe will be powered by a nuclear reactor, given its size and capacity.

The tracks seen in the latest satellite images run at convergent angles, which experts say resemble the configuration of existing American supercarriers that have four electromagnetic catapults.

Mr Duitsman said it seemed likely that Chinas new carrier would resemble the USS Gerald R Ford.

The USS Gerald R Ford is the largest and most advanced aircraft carrier in the US navy - US NAVY/ERIK HILDEBRANDT HANDOUT

China already has the largest navy in the world, with 370 military vessels, but America, with 291 vessels, has more big ships.

The Gerald Ford is one of 11 supercarriers in the US navy.

Rumours have circulated for years that China is preparing to build a Type 04 carrier. However, Beijing has refused to confirm any reports and very little information has been made public.

The USS Gerald R Ford can launch jets from four places on the carriers deck, while Chinas Fujian, third and most advanced carrier to date, can only launch from three

Last November, analysts at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in the US revealed that China had built a land-based prototype nuclear reactor for a large surface warship.

Until the satellite images from Dalian, this was the first and only piece of evidence that Beijing was developing a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier.

China has not commented on the latest reports. However, last March, Yuan Huazhi, the political commissar of the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army navy, told the state-backed Global Times that there was no bottleneck in Chinas aircraft carrier technologies and development was progressing smoothly.

At the time, Yuan also said that more information would be made available soon, but little has been heard from Beijing since.
Rupa Huq called for the Government to consider reversing the VAT raid on private schools - NICOLA TREE/GETTY IMAGES EUROPE

The Government should consider reversing its VAT raid on private schools when the economy grows, a Labour MP has said.

Rupa Huq, the Labour MP for Ealing Central and Acton, warned that the tax policy would make an elitist system more elitist and urged ministers to think creatively about its application.

Weve heard all these things that schools are going to close. Weve heard a lot of catastrophising. It remains to be seen whether those things will come to pass, she told MPs on Monday.

But my worry is it will just make an elitist system more elitist. And the Government says in their response [that] ending tax breaks to private schools was a tough but necessary decision. I mean, could there be when this growth comes a way of undoing it or something?

MPs debated the Governments VAT raid on private schools on Monday after an e-petition started by parents received more than 100,000 signatures.

The tax policy came into force on Jan 1, meaning private school fees in the UK are now subject to VAT for the first time.

Ms Huq also suggested during the Westminster Hall debate that the tax raid could be targeted at wealthier schools such as Eton College, rather than applied to all private schools as it is currently.

I know its a very clear policy in many manifestos. so I can understand its not all going to be undone now. But lets think a bit creatively, she said.

What I would suggest is possibly doing it on a turnover basis  so for your enormous schools that can afford it, yes  but for the smaller ones who have been caught in this trap, no.

What I want to do is to vocalise some of the concerns from my electorate and just remind everyone that its not great to always operate on the basis of one size fits all, when, in this case, it is far from the truth.

She joins just a handful of Labour MPs to speak out against the policy since Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, announced last summer that the party would introduce it in the middle of this school year.

Rachael Maskell, the Labour MP for York Central, told The Telegraph last October that the VAT raid was not going to work for parents of pupils with special educational needs who send their children to independent schools out of necessity not choice.

The Government is facing legal action over its flagship education policy after the Independent Schools Council (ISC) launched a High Court challenge.

The lobby group, which represents more than 1,400 private schools, has argued that the VAT raid undermines the human rights of some children, with a judicial review hearing set to take place from April 1 to 3.

Labour has insisted the policy will raise more than 1.8 billion each year by the end of the decade, which it has promised to spend on recruiting 6,500 new teachers and rolling out free breakfast clubs in every primary school in England.

Damian Hinds, a Tory MP and former shadow education secretary, told the debate on Monday: It is a revenue raiser, but in the grand scheme of things, its not the most enormous revenue raiser, and it is causing all sorts of disruption already.

He accused ministers of ignoring the existence of geography by insisting that the VAT raid would not spark a scramble for places at nearby secondary schools.

National offer day

Hundreds of thousands of families across England found out on Monday which secondary school they will be joining this September, on what is commonly known as national offer day.

A survey of local authorities found that more than a third saw a drop in the proportion of families that secured their first-choice school, although the majority noticed a rise.

Of the 70 councils that gave comparable data, 44 have seen an increase in the share of pupils getting their first choice compared with last year, while 24 recorded a fall, and two saw no change.

Nearly three in 10 children in London missed out on a place at their top choice of secondary school, according to PAs analysis of London Councils data.

Greenwich had the lowest proportion of children getting their top choice at 63.82 per cent, and in Lewisham just 63.89 per cent secured their first preference.

Overall, 71.6 per cent of children who applied to start at a secondary school in the capital this autumn received an offer from their first preference school, compared to 70.5 per cent last year.
Keir Starmer welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to London, for a European leaders summit on the situation in Ukraine - TOBY MELVILLE/PA WIRE

Its been a seismic weekend in global politics with nothing less than the future of European security at stake.

Kamal and Camilla reflect on Donald Trump and JD Vances shouting match with Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, which has left US support for Ukraine in serious doubt.

They also take in Sundays summit of international leaders in London chaired by Keir Starmer, which saw the PM leading the European response and seeming to pull off a delicate balancing act as a conduit between the American and Ukrainian presidents.

Whether Starmer and French president Emmanuel Macrons plan for a coalition of the willing to lead the defence of a post-war Ukraine is feasible very much remains to be seen  especially without American air cover.

And few know Trump better than his biographer Michael Wolff, who is in the Daily T studio to mark the publication of his latest book All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America (dismissed as totally FAKE by Trump). Wolff gives Kamal and Camilla his take on the thinking of a man he describes as both a moron and a genius.

Watch episodes of the Daily T here. You can also listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts, and subscribe to The Daily T newsletter for updates.
Supporters for whistleblower David McBride outside the ACT supreme court. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP

Lawyers for David McBride have argued their clients lengthy prison sentence failed to take into account he was motivated by bravely and selflessly attempting to right what he saw as a serious wrong.

McBride, a former military lawyer, on Monday argued against both his conviction and his five-year, eight-month prison sentence for taking and leaking classified material to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

Related: An hour with David McBride inside his tough Canberra prison

That material was subsequently used by the ABC as part of an expose on alleged war crimes by Australian troops in Afghanistan.

Flanked by two corrections officers, McBride entered the ACT court of appeal on Monday to a standing ovation from his supporters. They had packed out the public gallery after earlier hearing a speech outside court by Bernard Collaery, who was charged over disclosures about Australias bugging of Timor-Leste, an impoverished ally, during oil and gas negotiations.

McBride smiled at his supporters and motioned for calm before the appeal began.

His barrister, Bill Neild SC, argued the sentencing judge made a series of errors when imprisoning McBride last year. He said he failed to take into account McBrides motive, which was to blow the whistle to correct a serious wrong.

In that respect he acted bravely and selflessly in what he saw as his duty as a soldier and the best interests of the ADF, he said.

McBrides motive, he said, differentiated him from others who may engage in similar conduct for financial gain or for ulterior or unknown motives.

It was also argued that the court erroneously found that McBride knew what he was doing was unlawful, something at odds with his position in the legal proceedings, where he maintained a not guilty plea until court decisions deprived him of the ability to defend himself.

Neild argued McBrides mental health conditions were not properly taken into account and the court failed to properly consider an assessment of suitability for an intensive corrections order, which would have allowed his client to serve his sentence in the community under strict conditions.

McBrides team also argued against a finding by the sentencing judge that his moral culpability for the offences was high, saying it did not accord with his motives and his belief that he was acting lawfully.

The court also heard an appeal against McBrides conviction.

McBrides team argued that he was acting in line with a duty he owed to advance Australias public interest, which was in line with the oath he swore upon joining the military.

Prior to his trial, the ACT supreme court rejected that argument, meaning it would not have been able to be put to the jury. McBrides lawyers said he pleaded guilty as a result.

Later on Monday, commonwealth prosecutors argued there was nothing in the oath of service that referred to the notion of public service.

Barrister Patricia McDonald SC, acting for the prosecution, rejected the suggestion that this left soldiers only able to blindly follow orders.

She said there were formal internal avenues to raise concerns, including through the Australian Federal Police for instances of potential criminality, and the inspector-general of the Australian Defence Force.

The appellant did that, McDonald said. Ultimately he wasnt happy with the result.

She also rejected the arguments that the sentencing judge erred by failing to take into account McBrides mental health, his suitability for an intensive corrections order, and the motive for his conduct.

The court reserved its decision.
Antarctic Circumpolar Current (in yellow). Climate models show the current could slow down 20% by 2050. Illustration: Dr Taimoor Sohail

In a high emissions future, the worlds strongest ocean current could slow down by 20% by 2050, further accelerating Antarctic ice sheet melting and sea level rise, an Australian-led study has found.

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current  a clockwise current more than four times stronger than the Gulf Stream that links the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans  plays a critical role in the climate system by influencing the uptake of heat and carbon dioxide in the ocean and preventing warmer waters from reaching Antarctica.

Using Australias fastest supercomputer and climate simulator, Gadi, located at Access National Research Infrastructure in Canberra, the researchers used climate models to analyse the impact of changing temperature, ice melting and wind conditions on the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.

The results, published in Environmental Research Letters, revealed a clear link between meltwater from Antarctic ice shelves and circumpolar current slowdown, and comes less than a week after another paper anticipated a weakening in vital Atlantic Ocean currents.

Related: Antarctica sea ice reaches alarming low for third year in a row

What they found suggested a substantial reconfiguration of Southern Ocean dynamics, with far-reaching impacts on global climate patterns, oceanic heat distribution, and marine ecosystems.

Co-author Assoc Prof Bishakhdatta Gayen, from the University of Melbourne, described the result as quite alarming.

He explained that as melting Antarctic ice released cold, fresh water into the ocean, this sank and spread towards the equator. That flow of fresh water changed the density variation in the ocean, a key driver of movement, causing the slowdown.

The ocean is extremely complex and finely balanced. If this current engine breaks down, there could be severe consequences, including more climate variability, with greater extremes in certain regions, and accelerated global warming due to a reduction in the oceans capacity to act as a carbon sink, Gayen said.

Co-author and climate scientist Dr Taimoor Sohail said the slowdown could lead to a vicious cycle, where more warm water reaches the Antarctic shelf accelerating ice melting and further weakening the current.

This could also disrupt ecosystems and food webs, he said, as the oceanic current helps to prevent invasive species  such as rafts of southern bull kelp  from reaching the fragile continent, or redistributed them.

Concerted efforts to limit global warming  by reducing carbon emissions  will limit Antarctic ice melting, averting the projected slowdown, Sohail said.

Dr Edward Doddridge, a physical oceanographer at the University of Tasmania who was not involved with the study, said it was significant and surprising, given previous studies had indicated that the northern parts of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current were accelerating due to ocean warming.

Doddridge said it was important to investigate the ways that ocean currents might change, given more than 90% of the extra heat trapped on Earth had been stored in the oceans, which then moved the heat around in ways that affected the climate and weather in different places around the world.

Monash University climate scientist Dr Ariaan Purich, who was not involved with the paper, said dramatic changes were already under way in the oceans around Antarctica.

Fresh water stored in Antarctic ice sheets and shelves was melting at an accelerating rate, she said, and every summer since 2022  for the first time in recorded history  the extent of sea ice surrounding the continent had dropped below 2m square kilometres.

We need to know what the ocean is doing and how much heat and carbon the ocean is taking up so that we can better project the climate that were experiencing here on land in Australia, and that we can better adapt for that climate, she said.
Giorgia Meloni, Italys prime minister, during the summit of European leaders on Sunday - Neil Hall/EPA/Bloomberg

Italy has rejected Emmanuel Macrons proposal for a one-month ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as the first step to end the war.

Its foreign minister warned European governments to tread very carefully in discussions over deploying troops to the war-torn nation to police any future peace settlement.

Britain and Ukraine also poured cold water over the French presidents plan, which he raised at a summit of international leaders hosted by Sir Keir Starmer in London on Sunday.

The divides will trouble European leaders who are scrambling to devise a common plan to counter Donald Trumps strategy to resolve the conflict.

I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and the United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and, especially, a long-lasting peace, Antonio Tajani, Italys foreign minister, said of Mr Macrons proposal.

Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it.

During the talks at Lancaster House on Sunday, Mr Macron raised the idea of a one-month ceasefire in the air and sea to pave the way for more substantial peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.

The strategy, he told Le Figaro, the French newspaper, would test whether Vladimir Putin was serious about ending his three-year war.

However, there was little appetite to discuss the strategy amongst the 18 other Western leaders involved in the talks.

The Macron ceasefire was very much a Macron plan, an official who was briefed on the discussions told The Telegraph.

The French president is well known for floating ideas for which he has often failed to secure backing.

Emmanuel Macrons ceasefire plan received little traction among his fellow European leaders - Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, rejected plans for an immediate ceasefire, warning it would be a failure for everyone if a pause is negotiated without accompanying security guarantees.

Luke Pollard, the UKs Armed Forces minister, also warned that Russia would capitalise on any ceasefire to regroup.

The very real worry that the Ukrainians have is that any short pause in the war simply allows the Russians time to re-arm, regroup and reinvade, he told Sky News.

In a separate interview with Times Radio, the minister insisted no agreement has been made on what a truce looks like.

But he added: But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine.

Mr Pollard also rebuked Lord Mandelson, the UKs ambassador to Washington, for comments he made urging Mr Zelensky to be more supportive of the US presidents efforts to end the war and for the Ukrainian leader to call a unilateral ceasefire.

The envoys remarks were not government policy, according to the Armed Forces minister.

Credit: ABC's This Week by George Stephanopoulos

However, Lord Mandelsons call for a very radical reset to Mr Zelenskys relations with Mr Trump were echoed by European leaders gathered at Lancaster House.

They warned the Ukrainian president that he could not pursue a peace deal without his US counterparts backing.

But Mr Zelensky told reporters as he left London Stansted Airport on Sunday night that he saw no need to salvage his relationship with Mr Trump after their dramatic row in the Oval Office.

In the wake of the row, US officials were reviewing their military support for Kyiv, which could be drawn to an end as a result of the diplomatic dust-up.

Any decision could also include the taps being turned off on a weapons pipeline set up by Joe Biden, the former president, before his departure from the White House.

On Monday, Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor-in-waiting, accused Mr Trump of deliberately orchestrating the row to shock Europe into action.

It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but obviously a manufactured escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office, the German told a news conference in Hamburg.

Europe must now show that we are in a position to act independently, he added.

The Trump administration was waiting for Mr Zelensky to express regret for the row, Mike Waltz, the US national security adviser, told Fox News on Monday.

What we need to hear from President Zelensky is that he regrets what happened, that hes ready to sign this minerals deal, and that hes ready to engage in peace talks, he said.

His warning came as Mr Trump said he would not put up with it for much longer in response to Mr Zelensky saying that a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia was still very, very far away.

However, there are understood to be opposing camps inside the White House over how to handle the Ukrainian president moving forward.

A hardline group, which is upset that Mr Zelensky didnt wear a suit and tie for his White House appearance, is pushing for him to be excluded from future talks. A second group is urging Mr Trump to take a more conciliatory approach.

The US president is said to be in the middle of the two groups, Bloomberg reported.

The White House has a two-track approach to the peace talks, with Gen Keith Kellogg, the presidents peace envoy, handling discussions with Ukraine, while his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is leading engagements with Russia.

At their talks in London, European leaders agreed that boosting their defence spending was the best tactic to keep Mr Trump engaged in supporting Ukraine.

Ramping up military expenditure was the key to peace through strength for Ukraine, as well as to provide a credible proposition to the US, in order to keep them onside, an official briefed on the talks said.

An EU official added: There was general agreement on the need for European countries to increase defence spending and military capabilities. This was considered by many to be an important contribution to strengthening the transatlantic relation.

The source said there was wide support for Mr Trumps mantra of peace through strength, which European leaders agreed should start with increased military support to Ukraine as the main component of post-war security guarantees.

The first layer of those security guarantees will be Ukraines armed forces, who therefore must continue to be supported, the official said.

European contributions to additional security guarantees must be developed hand in hand with the US, the official added.
Palestinians attend an iftar dinner during Ramadan, eating in the rubble of the Tel al-Hawa area. Israel hopes that cutting off aid to the enclave during Ramadan will force Hamas to rethink a ceasefire - Ahmad Salem/Bloomberg

Israel intends to impose a hell plan on Gaza this week to force an agreement on the extension of the ceasefire, sources have said.

It could involve cutting off electricity and water, as well as potential efforts to again displace the civilian population from the north of the enclave, and comes after Benjamin Netanyahus decision on Sunday to halt humanitarian supplies.

Government sources have briefed journalists that they hope this will force Hamas to look again at a US proposal to extend the current ceasefire until after the period of Ramadan and Passover.

If the terror group refused, the ratcheting measures would lead to a resumption of all-out war in the Gaza Strip, government officials said.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have already stepped up strikes on alleged suspicious activity in Gaza in recent days.

The 42-day first phase of the hostage-ceasefire deal ended at the weekend, with no agreement in place for what happens next.

Under the original agreement, phase one would give way to phase two, which should involve the return of all living and dead hostages, further releases of Palestinian prisoners, the complete withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza and serious discussions about the enclaves political future.

Israel has been reluctant to contemplate the latter two points, instead backing a proposal by Steve Witkoff, the US Middle East envoy, of releasing half the remaining hostages on the first day of a Ramadan-Passover extension, with the remaining half released at the end, providing that an agreement about Gazas future had been reached.

Hamas has rejected the plan and called for phase two to go ahead as originally outlined.

Aid agencies have sounded alarm at the decision to halt aid convoys.

Palestinian children gather to receive food from a charity kitchen in Khan Younis. Aid agencies have shown alarm at the Israeli governments decision to halt aid convoys - Hatem Khaled/Reuters

Amjad Al Shawa, the director of the Palestinian NGOs Network, said: This decision to prevent the entry of food, medicine, fuel and other shelter items  which people [are] in bad need [of]  while we are engaged on such a humanitarian response, will complicate our efforts to alleviate the suffering.

However, Israel said on Monday that Hamas had enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic for its fighters.

Ariel Kellner, a Knesset member from Mr Netanyahus Likud party, said: Without this aid, they can continue to live for a very long time.

Shutting down aid in a real way would be shutting off the electricity and water and fuel. If that doesnt work, we will use force.

Attacks in Israel

Israel is reeling from what appeared to be a terror attack on its transport network, with one person killed and at least four wounded in a stabbing spree in Haifa on Monday.

The man who died was in his 60s and was stabbed several times in the back, while a 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital for emergency surgery.

Credit: Social Media

It came after a ramming attack at a bus stop on Thursday and a series of botched bus bombings in Tel Aviv two weeks ago.

There is growing discomfort on the Israeli Right that Hamas has used the ceasefire and the dying weeks of the Biden administration, when Israel was forced to allow through more aid, to build up its supplies and infrastructure.

The decision by Mr Netanyahus security cabinet has been welcomed by many commentators, who also say that cutting off electricity  in particular to Gazas desalination plant  plus the intermittent closure of water would put the enclave into a stranglehold. Stopping the inflow of bulldozers and mobile structures has also been called for.

Ramadan, the month-long fasting festival, is seen as a provocative time to impose restrictions on the Muslim-dominated region.

However, Israeli government sources said that they believe Hamas currently has no appetite for a return to war.

On Monday, it was reported that an Arab diplomat from one of the main countries involved in the negotiations said that, behind the scenes, the terror group appeared willing to be more flexible.

Camps of tents have been set up for displaced Palestinians in Gaza. Donald Trumps administration has backed the idea of expelling Palestinians from the enclave entirely - Jehad Alshrafi/AP

Other sources have suggested the group might accept a two-week extension before insisting on phase two of the ceasefire beginning.

Arab countries are reportedly nearing an agreement on an alternative plan for Gaza to that of Donald Trump, the US president, who wants to remove the enclaves population and turn it into a resort.

The Arab scheme would sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by both Arab, Muslim and Western states, it has been reported.

Reuters reported that an Egyptian-led vision for Gaza will be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday.

Hamas has previously rejected any idea of a future for the enclave being imposed on Palestinians by outside states.
Jack Vettrianos Along Came a Spider - Reuters

Jack Vettriano, the virally popular Scottish painter whose death, at the age of 73, was announced on March 3, wasnt a great artist, in the sense that one day we will see a retrospective of his work at the Tate. His easy-to-parse erotica, such as Along Came a Spider (2004), made him rich: when I met him, in his bizarrely pristine Knightsbridge studio in 2007, he didnt deny rumours that he was pulling in half a million pounds every year. But his name was also a byword for kitsch.

Still, he appeared to be devoid of pretensions to greatness  telling me, in that interview, that his most famous painting, The Singing Butler (1992), which once sold at auction for almost 745,000 (then a record for a Scottish picture), was by far not the best painting to ever come out of Scotland. My paintings are very accessible, very narrative, he said. People buy into the vision that I try to put on canvas  its as simple as that.

Isnt such self-deprecating psychological complexity compelling? Here, I sensed, was someone blessed with worldly success who craved recognition of a different sort, while understanding that it would never be forthcoming. No wonder he could be brittle, even paranoid. On the inside, it seemed, he was suffering from a Salieri-style predicament of self-lacerating self-awareness, which would excite any dramatist.

Soft-porn sensibilities: Vettrianos strayed towards erotica - Independent / Alamy Stock Photo

Its tempting to belittle Vettrianos work, with its default monotonous look that we might characterise as softcore fantasy, with a kinky undertow, which now sits so uneasily in the MeToo era. All those sleek, anonymous figures in his naff pictures, dressed in sharp tuxedos or lingerie, and smoking cigarettes  intended, I guess, to evoke some vaguely old-school, glamorous notion of romance  belong to the same imaginary universe as the characters in another raunchy cultural phenomenon: EL Jamess Fifty Shades trilogy of erotic novels.

Yet, its worth recalling that Vettriano was self-taught  he grew up in poverty, and only took up painting after a girlfriend gave him a set of watercolours for his 21st birthday  so we should be mindful of lapsing into snobbery. Besides, although none of his pictures  which he compared to old railway posters and the covers of pulp-fiction novels  exhibits any of the depth we expect from powerful, first-rate art, many of them do have a curious power of sorts, in that they appeal to a massive audience (including Jack Nicholson and Alex Ferguson, whove both acquired his work).

Consider The Singing Butler, Vettrianos paean to an antiquated class system, with its hunched, windswept, umbrella-wielding subordinates playing second fiddle to a pair of unruffled, moneyed protagonists, slowly twirling on a sodden beach. (Its barefoot heroine wears  of course!  a figure-hugging crimson evening gown, and matching opera gloves.) A remix by the street artist Banksy, Crude Oil (Vettriano) (2005), will be offered for sale, with a high estimate of 5 million, at Sothebys on March 4.

One of Vettrianos most famous paintings, The Singing Butler - sandy young / Alamy Stock Photo

The Singing Butler belongs to an elite category of pictures that punch through to the mainstream. Vladimir Tretchikoffs Chinese Girl (1952), aka The Green Lady, is another member of this club, along with  to pick a couple of high art examples  Hokusais Great Wave of 1831, or, say, Frederic Leightons Flaming June (1895).

Vettrianos blank paintings dont deserve to be mentioned in the same breath as anything by Leighton  and yet, because of their popularity, they cannot be ignored. This may sound like a strange achievement for an artist, but it is an achievement nonetheless.
King Charles welcomed the Canadian prime minister, Justin Trudeau, to his Sandringham Estate in Norfolk on Monday. Photograph: Aaron Chown/AP

King Charles is very conscious of his global responsibility and unique diplomatic role, and is determined to put that to use, a royal source said, after his meeting with the Canadian prime minister on Monday.

Charles met Justin Trudeau at his Sandringham estate in Norfolk, a day after he received the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The king was praised for offering a show of solidarity to Zelenskyy by welcoming him after his turbulent meeting with Donald Trump and his vice-president, JD Vance, at the White House on Friday.

Diplomatic efforts on behalf of Ukraine have intensified as Keir Starmer warned Europes leaders they stand at a crossroads in history and urged them to join his coalition of the willing.

Trump has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal.

A royal source said: It has been six days of royal diplomacy at its most delicate, deliberate and nuanced.

His majesty is very conscious of his responsibility globally, regionally and nationally  and passionately engaged in all the detail.

The source added: As a global statesman and a head of state for both the UK and Canada, the kings role is highly significant, and his majesty is determined to play his part, within appropriate parameters.

His role by necessity and constitutional obligation is to offer symbolic gestures, rather than express comment.

Although the king must remain politically neutral, he is able to advise and warn his ministers  including prime ministers  when necessary.

The source described the kings audiences with Zelenskyy and Trudeau as routine but highly significant, given the global context.

Details of what is discussed at private audiences are not shared by Buckingham Palace, but it is understood that the challenges Canada faces with the US as a result of Trumps incendiary rhetoric were high on the agenda, as was support for Ukraine.

The king, who has invited Trump for an unprecedented second state visit to the UK, is increasingly being seen as a unifying figure despite the turmoil on the worlds political stage, through the royal familys so-called soft-power diplomacy.

The audiences required high-level engagement and high-level sensitivity, the source said.

Trump has repeatedly threatened to make Canada the 51st state of America, claiming that without a massive subsidy from the US it ceases to exist as a viable country.

Trudeau, who flew to London to join the emergency defence summit of European leaders at the weekend, had said he would raise his concerns on the matter with Charles, who is the king of Canada.

Trump has vowed to impose tariffs on imported goods from Canada and Mexico from Tuesday, citing concerns over border crossings.
The King met Volodymyr Zelensky at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk - PRESIDENTIAL PRESS SERVICE/Shutterstock

The King is determined to put his unique diplomatic role to use, a royal source has said after his meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky.

The King has been hailed for offering a show of solidarity to Mr Zelensky by warmly welcoming him on Sunday afternoon after the presidents dramatic Oval Office clash with Donald Trump.

He then met Justin Trudeau, the outgoing Canadian prime minister, on Monday amid tensions between the US and Canada over tariffs.

The source said the King is very conscious of his global responsibility.

Diplomatic efforts on Ukraine have intensified as Sir Keir Starmer warned Europes leaders they stand at a crossroads in history and urged them to join his coalition of the willing.

A royal source said: It has been six days of royal diplomacy at its most delicate, deliberate and nuanced.

His Majesty is very conscious of his responsibility globally, regionally and nationally  and is passionately engaged in all the detail.

The source added: As a global statesman and a head of state for both the UK and Canada, the Kings role is highly significant, and His Majesty is determined to play his part, within appropriate parameters.

His role by necessity and constitutional obligation is to offer symbolic gestures, rather than express comment.

Although the King must remain politically neutral, he is able to advise and warn his government ministers when necessary.

The source described the Kings audiences with Mr Zelensky and Mr Trudeau as being routine but highly significant, given the global context.

Details of what is discussed at private audiences are not shared by Buckingham Palace, but it is understood that the challenges Canada faces with its nearest neighbour the US were high on the agenda, as was support for Ukraine.

The meetings required high-level engagement and high-level sensitivity, the source said.

The King, who has invited Mr Trump to pay an unprecedented second state visit to the UK, is increasingly being seen as a unifying figure despite the turmoil on the worlds political stage, through the Royal familys so-called soft power diplomacy.

Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened to make Canada the 51st state of America, claiming that without a massive subsidy from the US it ceases to exist as a viable country.

Mr Trudeau, who flew to London to join the emergency defence summit of European leaders at the weekend, had said he would raise his concerns on the matter with the monarch.

The US president has also vowed to impose tariffs on imported goods from Canada as soon as Tuesday amid his concerns over border crossings.

The King was planning to carry out an overseas tour to Canada last year, but this was postponed due to his cancer diagnosis.

There are hopes the visit could happen in 2026, after the Canadian elections this year, with the King said to be wholly committed to and enthusiastic about the prospect of returning for the first time as the countrys monarch.

Visiting Canada remains one of his key international priorities, the source said.

Justin Trudeau gestured towards the King which was met with laughter from the monarch - Aaron Chown/REUTERS

The King sent a message to the people of Canada in February to mark the 60th anniversary of the Canadian flag, saying it was a symbol of a proud, resilient and compassionate country.

He gave a warm welcome to Mr Trudeau as he greeted him on Monday morning, giving a hearty laugh as the Canadian leader gestured towards him and shook the monarchs hand.

Jason Kenney, the former Alberta premier, said that for Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented on Mr Trumps threats, he can only act on the advice of Canadas prime minister.

The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty, Mr Kenney posted on X.
Over 360 guests gathered at Windsor Castle to break their fast as part of the Muslim festival Ramadan - TODD-WHITE ART PHOTOGRAPHY/BEN FITZPATRICK/ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST

The King has opened state rooms at Windsor Castle to Muslims breaking Ramadan fast for the first time.

On Sunday, more than 360 guests from all backgrounds gathered in St Georges Hall for Iftar, the fast-breaking evening meal during the holy month of Ramadan.

It marks the first time in the royal residences thousand-year history that an open Iftar event has been held in the hall famous for hosting banquets during state visits.

The King, who has promoted and celebrated interfaith dialogue and religious diversity throughout his working life, is understood to have been supportive of the event by the Royal Collection Trust (RCT) and the Ramadan Tent Project (RTP).

The gathering was part of the RCTs aim to ensure access to its palaces is enjoyed by everyone, said Simon Maples, Windsor Castles visitor director.

The Berkshire royal residence welcomed Iftar attendees for the first time last year, but in the Learning Centre rather than the state apartments.

The event at St Georges Hall is the first of a series of Iftar celebrations in the coming weeks at venues that will also include Shakespeares Globe

The holy month of Ramadan, which began last Friday evening, sees Muslims fast and refrain from eating or drinking between dawn and sunset for the duration of March.

Mr Maples said the monarch has been championing religious diversity and encouraging interfaith conversation for many years.

Omar Salha, the founder and chief executive of the RTP, told the BBC: The King is an excellent ambassador for this cause and is committed to community cohesion.

We are incredibly grateful for his support towards the British Muslim community.

Sundays event included a call to prayer signalling the time to break the fast and prayers were then said before the meal was served.

Open Iftar, organised by the award-winning charity RTP with the RCT, will host similar events across the country in the coming weeks, including at Shakespeares Globe and the V&A museum in South Kensington.

Surreal and poignant moment

Mr Salha added: Breaking our fast and marking the holy month of Ramadan at Windsor Castle, one of the most famous and iconic royal landmarks in the world, is an incredibly surreal and poignant moment to share with people of all faiths and none.

It serves as a powerful reminder of how proud we are to represent a pillar of Britains rich cultural ecology celebrating community, belonging and inclusion.

Iftars are open to everyone, regardless of faith and background and the RCTs website encourages people of all faiths and none to join in breaking fast at Windsor Castle.

Guests who attended the event started with a self-guided tour of the state apartments before dining in the famed St Georges Hall.

One attendee told the BBC: Ive never been to Windsor Castle before, so this is an awesome experience. The first time to be here and to do it in a Islamic way  amazing.

A former history student added: To mix my Muslim identity with that historical knowledge [in Windsor Castle] is a real privilege.
Credit: ABC's This Week by George Stephanopoulos

Lord Mandelsons calls for Volodymyr Zelensky to make up with Donald Trump and support his peace plan are not government policy, a minister has said.

In an interview over the weekend, Britains ambassador to the US said the Ukrainian president should give his unconditional backing to US proposals to end the three-year conflict.

But Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, distanced Downing Street from the suggestion and said that position was not the view of Sir Keir Starmers Government.

The comments follow a meeting between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky on Friday that descended into acrimony as the US president accused his counterpart of risking World War Three.

He subsequently ejected Mr Zelenskys delegation from the White House, going on to claim that the Ukrainian president was not ready for peace.

Lord Mandelson, a Labour peer, told the US news channel ABC that he wanted to see Mr Zelensky and Mr Trump getting back on the same page, calling the the US presidents mineral deal the only show in town.

The ambassador went on to say Ukraine should call for a ceasefire before Russia does, therefore defying Vladimir Putin to follow suit.

But asked whether Lord Mandelsons position was now government policy, Mr Pollard told Sky News: No. Its certainly right that of all the people on our continent who want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

But were still in discussions, diplomatic engagement, with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of our deal.

But its certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if president Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war so what we need to find is a formula that allows a peace that is lasting and durable to be created, and then to be defended.

Asked whether Lord Mandelson had misspoken, Mr Pollard replied: Thats not government policy, and you wouldnt ask me to commentate on every up and down in the negotiations. But we are seeking to find that lasting peace.

Asked about Lord Mandelsons remarks, the Prime Ministers official spokesman said: The Prime Ministers made very clear his position on all of this, and the priority here is reaching a durable peace.

Of course, he [Lord Mandelson] is our ambassador to the United States. But Ive also been very clear that youve heard from the Prime Minister on these issues that when it comes to achieving a durable peace in Ukraine

I think youve got the Prime Ministers position on a range of these issues, and hes taken quite a lot of questions on them as well.

Asked about Lord Mandelsons comments, a former Tory cabinet minister said: Ambassadors should be seen and not heard.

The intervention by the peer raises the possibility that he has been put up by Downing Street to make such an argument as doing so could prove convenient for No 10 in the longer term.

But if his remarks were a genuine break with the Government line, it would mark an unfortunate start to what is likely to be another difficult diplomatic week.

Nigel Farage, the Reform UK leader, said Mr Zelensky had no choice but to go back to the White House and suggested he should wear a tie next time.

He told The Telegraph: I think when we look back on the row, we will see it helped break the ice. Psychologically it must have been difficult for him, to go into a meeting where you have to accept you are going to lose part of your sovereign territory as part of an overall deal.

But just watch  hell be going back to the White House before you know it, and hell be signing the mineral deal, and that will be the beginning of the process of ending the war. He doesnt have a choice.

Mr Farage also said Mr Zelensky should dress more smartly next time, adding: When he was briefed ahead of the meeting with Trump, surely he will have been told that he is very old-fashioned  he looks at what people wear, he looks at their shoes, thats how he is, he said.

Its up to Zelensky what he does but if it were me, I think Id do it differently the next time. What is important is that an agreement is reached.

On Sunday, Sir Keir convened a security summit of European leaders who reiterated their support for Ukraine at Lancaster House.

Meanwhile, the UK and France are urging the creation of a Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Canada and Turkey are involved in discussions about joining Sir Keirs coalition of the willing, which could see soldiers sent to Ukraine to enforce an agreement.

Bloomberg reported that the UK and Frances response to a series of private requests made by Mr Trump following his public spat with Mr Zelensky. The US president is also said to be unwilling to commit to backing European troops who are sent to Ukraine until Europe produces a plan to stop the fighting.

The Government has denied suggestions by Emmanuel Macron, the French president, that the two countries had drawn up a plan for a one-month truce in Ukraine in the air [and] at sea.
Credit: @Netlfix/ Instagram

The Duchess of Sussex has recommended cutting fruit up for childrens breakfast with a sprinkle of flower petals as a sweet way for working parents like her to start the weekend.

A trailer for Meghans new Netflix programme, which will air on Tuesday, shows her assembling fruit into a rainbow shape, with a dollop of yoghurt to represent clouds for some extra luxury.

Showing viewers how to make just a little morning plate of berries, kiwi, satsuma segments and pineapple, she reaches for a jar of flower sprinkles, if we must.

Explaining how we all have to work, the Duchess said finding the fun in a Saturday morning breakfast could make a difference.

The advert for the series With Love, Meghan  shared on her Instagram stories  sees her demonstrate how to create a large rainbow-shaped platter of fruit, before striking on the idea of a small version for children.

You dont have to do a big platter of this, she advises. You could do this with one small row for your kids for breakfast, genuinely, and it makes the morning a lot more fun.

Its a real delight in being able to be a present parent, and its a luxury sometimes, because we all have to work. We all have a lot of stuff to do, but when you can take a minute to just

One of the film crew adds Saturday morning with Meghan nodding in agreement.

Finding the fun in those moments makes for a really sweet start to the weekend, she added.

Meghan says: It doesnt need to be big for a party. Its how you can incorporate these practices every day.

At the start of the trailer, the Duchess says: This is about connecting with friends and just learning.

The series will feature celebrity guests such as actor and producer Mindy Kaling - Netflix

The show will combine practical how-tos and candid conversation with friends, new and old, according to promotional material.

Meghan shares personal tips and tricks, embracing playfulness over perfection, and highlights how easy it can be to create beauty, even in the unexpected, it says.

She and her guests roll up their sleeves in the kitchen, the garden, and beyond, and invite you to do the same.

Guests include Roy Choi, the chef, Mindy Kaling, the actress and writer, and Alice Waters, the farm-to-table pioneer.

In one episode, the Duchess appears to refer to her brief stint as a working royal, describing Danie Martin, her make-up artist, as someone who was in my life for the before, during and after, shall we say.

In an interview with People magazine to promote the show, the Duchess said she had found making the series super joyful and added that it had been particularly meaningful for Prince Harry and her friends to see her return to her lifestyle blogging roots.

You have to imagine my friends experience through the past few years, she said. They spend all this time with me at home and at their houses or out at dinners. For them to see who they know to be reflected on screen, it brought them a lot of joy.

Meghan, whose two young children have appeared on her social media as she promotes the upcoming show, added: As a woman, a mom and a wife, to be able to find yourself again  is a wonderful feeling.

Emphasising that viewers should not strive for perfection, but simply aim to be doing what you can do and doing it with love, she revealed she liked to present Chinese takeaway food in an aesthetically pleasing way. Even when I get takeout, I will try to plate it beautifully, she said.

The interview with People came just hours ahead of the release of With Love, Meghan on Tuesday - People

The Duchess of Sussex has said that filming the Netflix series allowed her to show her children the realities of being a working mom.

Meghan revealed that the Duke and their children visited her on set.

She told People: I loved that my children were able to watch me working and see the balance of that and understand what Mama does and is working to create and share. It was really special because up until then, they hadnt seen me at work.

The Duchess said the development of her associated business venture, As Ever, set to launch in the spring, would also be educational for her daughter.

Being able to have my own little girl, as Ive spent so much of my life championing the rights of girls and women, and to be able to see this as a multi-generational story  Archie is of course included in that, my husband is of course included in that  but I love the heritage feeling of it and knowing this is something that I can create in front of my daughter and teach her what its like to be a working mom, she said.

This is something that hopefully can be part of her legacy too.

The Duchess said that her son, who was ill recently and was fed bone broth by Doria Ragland, her mother, told her: Mama, dont work too hard.

The interview is billed as the Duchesss most intimate in years.

The Duchess insists she and Prince Harry live normal lives in Montecito

The Duchess shut down her previous lifestyle brand, The Tig, when it became clear her relationship with Prince Harry was serious.

I loved The Tig, but I certainly love my husband more, she said. So that was a choice I made at the time, and I wouldnt change that for a second.

It has been five years since the couple walked away from their roles as working members of the Royal family in a blaze of acrimony but Meghan admitted that she cherished their royal titles, given to them by Elizabeth II on their wedding day.

The Sussex name was part of our love story, she said.

Its our shared name as a family, and I guess I hadnt recognised how meaningful that would be to me until we had children. I love that that is something that Archie, Lili, H and I all have together. It means a lot to me.

The Duchess insisted that she and Prince Harry lived normal lives in Montecito and were part of the local community, going out for dinner, joining public yoga classes and inviting school moms and their children over for play dates.

The show was not filmed at the couples home but on a nearby estate

Offering a glimpse of the domestic idyll she will soon promote, she said she loved making fried eggs and bacon for her husband and children.

The Duchess claimed that her newfound creativity had allowed her and Prince Harry to relive their honeymoon period because he loved watching her scribbling notes and newsletters and enjoying the development process.

Weve been such a close team for so long that were just in it beat by beat with each other, she said. And I love that. To be able to be a female founder and do that with my husbands support means everything.

She said they enjoyed day dates in the afternoons when they had lunch together, as well as nightcap recaps in the evenings when they enjoyed a drink and made lunch boxes as they chatted about their days.

They also love television shows including Shrinking, Black Doves and The White Lotus.

The Duchess said she chose to film the show on a nearby estate because she wanted to protect the safe haven of the family home.

Were a close-knit family, and I love those moments  putting Lili down for a nap, having lunch together, having sacred time together at the end of the day, she said.

Our kitchen is where Mama just cooks for the family, and with a crew of 80-plus people, thats a lot of people to have in your house.

Journalist hand-picked for series review

It comes after it emerged the Duchesss new Netflix show will be reviewed in advance by a journalist who recently wrote about the lessons in success, resilience and grace we can all learn from Meghan.

Sophia A Nelson, who writes for Forbes magazine, was among six or seven journalists hand-picked to watch the first few episodes of With Love, Meghan, ahead of its release.

She described the series as a culinary, hospitality, and human connection masterclass and said it taught viewers how to throw a good kids party, how to have girls brunch in the garden and how to be present.

Ms Nelson revealed on social media this weekend that she was very excited to have been chosen as one of the lucky few.

In a now-deleted post she revealed that her review would be published on Monday afternoon after she had watched a few advance episodes.

It is unlikely that she will have anything negative to say. The journalist, who has written about her own mixed-race heritage in the context of Meghans, wrote a piece for Forbes in January in which she said that like many women of colour, she was proud of her global impact and celebrity.

She said she was deeply disappointed with how the Duchess had been treated by the awful Royal family and the British media.

She is truly a remarkable woman, with so much good ahead of her, Ms Nelson wrote, before listing the five life lessons we can all learn from this successful millennial bi-racial woman, turned actress, and media power broker.

They included practising the power of the pause, leaning into love and healing and not dimming your light.

Other, similarly favourable reviews, published in People, Us Weekly and Town and Country magazines, reveal that Meghan perfects focaccia, salt-baked fish and single skillet spaghetti. She also crafts mixed drinks in mason jars, reveals she has been learning mah-jong, goes hiking and discusses her love of flower-arranging.

She is taught how to make fried chicken, which Prince Harry loves, while she and her children enjoy crudites platters. Prince Harry appears only briefly in the final episode when she throws a party to celebrate the launch of her business, As Ever.

The Duchess also reveals snippets about family life throughout the series.

She says Prince Harry always puts salt on his food before he has tasted it but insists he is a great cook.

She also says their daughter Lilibet made up a song about cleaning and has a doll called Stella Al Fresco and that their son, Archie recently caught two trout on holiday, which they ate.
Melania Trump walks through the Capitol in Washington DC on Monday - Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP

Melania Trump will tackle revenge porn and deepfakes in her first public comments since becoming first lady for the second time.

Mrs Trump is set to host a roundtable to discuss the Take It Down Act, which aims to clamp down on the non-consensual sharing of sexual images and videos.

Deepfake porn uses AI to create illicit videos by superimposing a persons face into pornographic content without their consent.

Deepfakes currently occupy something of a legal grey area in the US, with some states like Indiana, Texas and Virginia enacting laws.

There is no national legislation criminalising the fakes, however revenge porn, the leaking of sexual content without consent, is illegal in 49 states.

Melania and Donald Trump with their son Barron on election night last year - The Washington Post

Speaking on Monday afternoon, Mrs Trump warned that the threat of privacy breaches is alarmingly high for children.

She said: In an era where digital interactions are eternal, it is imperative we safeguard children from mean spirited and hurtful online behaviour.

Mrs Trump highlighted the case of Elliston Berry, a 15-year-old girl from Texas who was the victim of AI-generated deepfake porn.

The first lady said that users superimposed her face onto pornographic content solely to humiliate her.

Ellistons family contacted the social media companies for help, Mrs Trump said. Their efforts fell upon deaf ears.

Ultimately the fake images circulated worldwide.

Its heartbreaking to witness young teens, especially girls, grappling with overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content like deepfakes.

This toxic environment can be severely damaging.

Hostile digital landscape

Mrs Trump added that young people deserved to be protected from a hostile digital landscape and the looming threat of exploitation or harm.

Senator Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican, said that Ms Berry was just 14 when a classmate used an innocent photo, taken from her from Instagram, to make AI-generated porn.

Mr Cruz said nine months on, the images of Ms Berry were still up and that he had to call the head of Instagram to finally remove them, prompting Mrs Trump to nod her head in agreement.

Mrs Trump listened intently as Ms Berry, who sat next to her, talked about how she was violated all over social media and my innocence was stripped away.

It is so inspiring to know my voice is being heard, Ms Berry said.

Trump to take on new issues

Mrs Trumps meeting on Capitol Hill will be an opportunity to return to her campaigning for safer internet use.

After Mr Trump took office for the first time, Mrs Trump launched her Be Best initiative to combat online bullying but it struggled as critics pointed out Donald Trump, her husband, used social media to do just that.

While Mrs Trump is not publicly known to have been a victim of revenge or deepfake porn, nude images of her from her modelling days were published by the New York Post in 2016 during Mr Trumps first presidential campaign.

They were shot by photographer Ale de Basseville in 1996 in New York and published in Max, a French magazine.

However Mrs Trump said last year during a promotional video for her memoir that her nude shots were a celebration of the human form.

Mrs Trump signalled her interest in online safety in October and said she could take on new issues.

She told Fox News: Children are suffering. We need to help them and educate them.

A 2023 study found there had been a 550 per cent rise in the manipulated content since 2019, much of it fuelled by AI.

The Take It Down Act was introduced by Mr Cruz and would criminalise the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII) including material generated by AI.

Social media companies and websites would be obliged to introduce procedures to remove any content when it was flagged.

A bill has passed the Senate but has not yet cleared the House, however Mrs Trumps support could ensure it gets approved.

The Take It Down Act was in part a response to the controversy last year around deepfake videos of Taylor Swift which circulated on social media.

The clips were shared tens of millions of times on X, formerly Twitter, which is owned by Elon Musk, before the social network temporarily barred users from searching for Swifts name.

Ms Swift reportedly considered legal action but tracking down the originators of the images is extremely difficult.

Last month actress Scarlett Johansson warned about AI misuse after a video circulated online of her and other Jewish celebrities protesting against rapper Kanye West for selling T-shirts with a swastika on them.

While Ms Johansson said she did not support hate speech she did not officially appear in the clip, which also featured Steven Spielberg, Adam Sandler, Sacha Baron Cohen and Natalie Portman.

The Take It Down Act has attracted some opposition including from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a digital privacy campaign group.

It says that the bill threatens free expression because it mandates a takedown system without addressing the problem it claims to solve.
The UN study found that life satisfaction and happiness had fallen among young people over the past decade, and particularly among young women. Photograph: franckreporter/Getty Images

For more than half a century, the midlife crisis has been a feature of western society. Fast cars, impulsive decisions, and peak misery between the age of 40 and 50. But all that is changing, according to experts.

In a new paper commissioned by the UN, the leading academics Jean Twenge and David Blanchflower warn that a burgeoning youth mental health crisis in six English-speaking countries worldwide is upending the traditional pattern of happiness across our lifetimes.

Whereas happiness was once considered to follow a U-shape  with a relatively carefree youth, a tougher middle age and a more comfortable later life  the experts in wellbeing say our satisfaction now rises steadily with age instead.

Related: UK watchdog to investigate TikTok and Reddit over use of childrens data

The U-shape in wellbeing by age that used to exist in these countries is now gone, replaced by a crisis in wellbeing among the young, according to the paper published by the US National Bureau of Economic Research.

Analysing responses to surveys in the US, UK, Ireland, Australia, Canada and New Zealand, the study found that life satisfaction and happiness had fallen among young people over the past decade, and particularly among young women.

It highlighted the rise of smartphones and social media, suggesting the trend coincided with the growth of internet usage, with the impact on happiness visible in surveys across the six countries and in several other nations worldwide.

This may end up being a lost generation, Blanchflower, a former Bank of England policymaker, told the Guardian in an interview. He said there had been a sharp drop in wellbeing in the US and the UK in particular, and pointed to the growth of social media, cyberbullying and body shaming online.

The young have become isolated. Its also not so much that people are sitting there on the phone, its what theyre not doing. Theyre not going out as much; playing with their friends, interacting with others, or having as much sex.

I dont think there is any doubt you have an absolute global crisis. Young people are in deep disarray and trouble. And the question is what do we do about it? And we dont know. David Blanchflower

I dont think there is any doubt you have an absolute global crisis. Young people are in deep disarray and trouble. And the question is what do we do about it? And we dont know.

A leading British labour market economist now at the prestigious US Dartmouth College, Blanchflower had written a paper in 2020 looking across almost 150 advanced and developing countries and found the same U shape in happiness applied everywhere. However, he now says he missed the collapse in youth wellbeing from about 2013 in survey data, before starting to work with Twenge, who is a leading expert on the subject.

I looked and I thought, Oh shit, shes right. What had happened is a really big deal. It wasnt Covid, it had started before that, but that extended it after 2020.

Other studies have drawn links between the youth mental health crisis and intergenerational inequality, unregulated social media, insecure employment and the climate crisis. Young people are also increasingly like to be outside the jobs market with mental health conditions.

Blanchflower said the collapse in youth wellbeing could have vast social and economic consequences. The economics of this are a really big deal. Potentially this relates to the kids withdrawing from school; then they go out of the labour force. Presumably it will affect your performance at school, it might well impact global productivity, he added.

He said the UN had commissioned further research to identify whether the phenomenon could be found elsewhere around the world. The UN sees this as a huge global crisis, he added.

We always thought that as life becomes more realistic, happiness declines because of pressures, then you realise life isnt so bad. Were having to rethink that entire thought.
Michelle ONeill said the international community should focus on working towards negotiation and peace settlements - Liam McBurney/PA

The Sinn Fein first minister of Northern Ireland said she had been incredulous that the British Government had put in an order with a Belfast plant for missiles for Ukraine.

Sir Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that the Thales plant in east Belfast would supply 5,000 air defence missiles to Ukraine in a deal worth up to 1.6 billion.

But Michelle ONeill, the vice-president of the republican party, said she would rather see the money invested in public services than in weapons of war.

During the Troubles, Sinn Fein was the political wing of the IRA, which killed 1,800 people between 1969 and its final ceasefire, in 1997.

Sir Keir Starmer announced the deal for the Thales plant on Sunday - David Young/PA

In the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said she had been incredulous at the deal at the time of public service cuts, winter fuel payment cuts, national insurance rises and inheritance tax changes for farmers.

I think at a time like that, rather than buying weapons of war, I would rather see the money invested in public services, she said.

The first minister also said she had felt the focus of the international community should always be to work towards negotiation and peace settlements.

Our own example here will tell us that, she added.

Sir Keir said on Sunday that the lightweight multirole missiles would be made at the Thales weapons plant in Belfast, creating 200 jobs.

A Wildcat helicopter equipped with lightweight multirole missiles, which the Belfast factory will be making - Ministry of Defence/PA

This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now and [to] strengthen Ukraine in securing the peace when it comes, he said.

The missiles, which are capable of flying at 1.5 times the speed of sound and striking targets more than 3.7 miles away, can be used to attack enemy vehicles, boats and drones.

Earlier, during a press conference at Stormont, Gavin Robinson, the DUP leader, said the deal would be hugely significant for the Belfast workforce.

Gavin Robinson said the weapons deal would be hugely significant for Belfast - David Young/PA

Mr Robinson also described the heated Oval Office confrontation between Donald Trump, the US president, and Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, as appalling.

However, he said political parties who would be boycotting events to mark St Patricks Day in Washington, but who said the White House visit of Micheal Martin, the Taoiseach, should go ahead, cant have it both ways.

It is a hugely significant order, he said.

It builds on not only the work that has been done to encourage defence contributions and spend in Northern Ireland, but it also recognises the significant contribution Thales has made to the ongoing efforts in Ukraine.
The new variant may be better adapted to spread between people - TCHANDROU NITANGA/AFP via Getty Images

A new variant of mpox that may be better adapted to spread between people has been identified in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The new strain is a mutation of Clade 1a mpox  an older variant that has been known to cause more severe disease than Clade 2, which caused a global outbreak in 2022, or Clade 1b, which has been spreading rapidly in Africa since 2023.

Dr Ngashi Ngongo, who heads the mpox incident management team at the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), said the new strain raises significant public health concerns.

This is because it carries a mutation known as APOBEC3, which indicates that it may be more transmissible, he explained. The same mutation had already been seen in Clade 1b mpox, which has spread beyond the DRC to several neighbouring countries as well as Europe and Asia.

Very important information from the DRC  we have seen a new variant of Clade 1a with APOBEC3 that has been detected, and unlike the old 1a variant, this one has got high potential for higher transmissibility, Dr Ngongo told a briefing.

Clade 1a had previously been linked to spillovers from animals, with some limited human-to-human transmission in endemic areas in central Africa. It has a fatality rate ranging from 1.4 per cent to over 10 per cent, compared with between 0.1 per cent and 3.6 per cent for Clade 2.

However, Dr Lorenzo Subissi, a virologist with the WHO Health Emergencies Programme, cautioned that so far such high fatality rates had not been observed.

While this variant may spread outside of DRC, the mortality rate seen in Kinshasa, where the new Clade 1a variant co-circulates with Clade 1b, remains less than one per cent, so much lower than what was historically thought to be clade Ia mortality, he told The Telegraph. Mortality will largely depend on underlying conditions of the affected population such as malnutrition.

The discovery of the new mutant strain came as the World Health Organization extended its declaration of a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC) over the mpox epidemic.

The unanimous decision from the WHO emergency committee was based on the continuing rise in numbers and geographic spread, the violence in the eastern DRC, which hampers the response, as well as a lack of funding to implement the response plan, the WHO said in a statement.

Uganda has begun vaccinating high-risk groups and health workers as the country battles its own outbreak of mpox - Nicholas Kajoba/Anadolu via Getty Images

The outbreaks in Africa mainly involve Clade 1a and 1b strains of the virus, with limited transmission of clade 2.

Dr Ngongo said several countries in Africa are continuing to report rising mpox cases, while spiralling armed conflict in the DRC is increasing the risk of spread.

Fourteen out of 22 African countries affected by the epidemic are still in the active outbreak stage, he said. Among them is South Africa, which reported three new cases after going more than 90 days without reporting any.

In Uganda, surging mpox cases  the country reported 278 last week  have begun to overwhelm medical facilities, prompting the countrys ministry of health to begin at-home treatment of patients with less severe disease.

Dr Ngongo said one treatment facility in the central Ugandan city of Entebbe was currently dealing with over 100 patients despite only having 80 beds.

In the DRC, conflict is fuelling the outbreak and complicating efforts to monitor it.

More than 500 mpox patients have been forced to flee health facilities in Goma and Bukavu, two cities in the east of the country that were recently plunged into chaos when they were seized by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, according to local media reports.

We were looted. We lost equipment. It was a disaster, said Dr Samuel Muhindo, who runs a clinic in Goma.

Now we are afraid of an outbreak of the epidemic in the areas where the displaced people returned to, he told the BBC.

The spread of the fighting  and the freeze on USAID money that had been used to transport tests to laboratories  mean that only 35 per cent of suspected mpox cases are now being tested in the DRC.

While, overall, cases in Africa have declined in recent weeks, Dr Ngongo said this was probably the result of reporting delays and the decline in testing coverage in the DRC.

Against this backdrop of significant uncertainty around the outbreak, the DRC finally began its first large-scale mpox vaccination programme last week.

Over 24,800 people received jabs for mpox in the space of four days, Dr Ngongo said.

A new, two-pronged strategy is intended to target both high-risk areas and the contacts of confirmed cases, according to the Africa CDC. Previous vaccination campaigns have targeted frontline health workers.

Protect yourself and your family by learning more about Global Health Security
The migrants are seen wearing red life jackets after being brought to Dover by a Border Force vessel - Gareth Fuller/PA

Nearly 600 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats on Sunday  the largest number on a single day so far this year.

A total of 592 people were intercepted by Border Force vessels in 11 dinghies throughout the day as people-smugglers took advantage of calm seas and sunny skies.

It marked a record for the year so far and was the largest number of migrants to arrive at the Port of Dover in Kent since 609 people made the crossing in nine boats on Dec 12, according to official figures.

Five required medical treatment  including one who was critically injured  after their boat ran aground on the North sea wall of Hardelot, more than 30 miles down the coast from Calais. The French coastguard reported that two people were treated for hypothermia.

Teams were working all day to recover those on the vessels, with some rescued by Garonne, a French navy ship, and others by emergency services workers.

Sundays arrivals took the number of migrants to cross the Dover Straits so far this year to 2,716 on 51 boats. That is some 20 per cent more than at the same point last year, equivalent to 500 more people, but eight per cent lower than at this point in 2023.

Last year, a total of 36,816 migrants arrived in 695 boats, the second highest number on record behind 2022, when 45,755 reached the UK in dinghies. At least five people have died attempting the dangerous voyage this year.

Groups of people in red life jackets were led off several Border Force vessels throughout the day at the immigration processing centre at Dovers Western Docks after being intercepted in mid-Channel. They were later taken to holding centres.

Dozens more migrants are expected to make the crossing on Monday despite early freezing and foggy conditions.

A Home Office spokesman said: We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security.

The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay. We will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.

A number of small boats and motors believed to have been used by migrants crossing the Channel are seen at a warehouse in Dover - Gareth Fuller/PA

The record figure comes as the French government indicated that it would lift a ban on migrants boats being stopped at sea for the first time in an effort to reduce illegal Channel crossings.

Bruno Retailleau, the French interior minister, said on Thursday that he was seeking a law change to allow migrants to be tackled out of boats in shallow water. The change would also permit police to use their own boats to take on people-smugglers carrying migrants to the UK on overloaded vessels for the first time.

Britain has agreed to extend a deal with France to reduce small boat crossings until 2027 on the condition that it completes the construction of a detention centre in Dunkirk.

The 12.5 million centre was central to the three-year deal signed by Rishi Sunak and Emmanuel Macron, the French president, to bolster border security on the French coast in 2023. However. construction has been delayed because of planning rows.

Downing Street insisted the Government is taking action to curb crossings, addressing the chaos in the asylum system and stepping up returns of people with no legal right to be in the UK, but there are no quick fixes to the global problem of illegal migration.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Were taking the measures that will ultimately deter and smash people-smuggling gangs that have been plying this illegal trade.

Were extending a deal with France to step up our work.

Nearly 26,000 migrants have crossed the Channel since Labour won the election last July.
Emmanuel Macron, the French president, with Keir Starmer at a meeting of European leaders to discuss Ukraine on Sunday - Neil Hall/Shutterstock

Britain has distanced itself from a proposal by the French president for a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine.

Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday that France and Britain were proposing a limited four-week ceasefire in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure but not, initially at least, covering ground fighting.

But Kyiv has raised reservations about any end to the fighting without security guarantees.

And on Monday, one British official said there was no agreement on the truce plan.

There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed, the official told the Financial Times.

France insists a one-month truce would test Vladimir Putins good faith in wishing to end this war.

Speaking to France Inter radio on Monday, Jean-Noel Barrot, the French foreign minister, insisted that a one-month time frame would allow to prove the good will of Vladimir Putin if he commits to a truce.

And its then that real peace negotiations would start. We want a solid peace and a durable peace, he added.

An initial phase was a way of verifying that Russia is willing to end this war, said Mr Barrot, specifying that no withdrawal of Russian troops on the ground was envisaged during the truce.

Mr Zelensky attended the summit in London along with 18 other world leaders - Justin Tallis/Getty Images

His comments came a day after European leaders rallied around Ukraine at a summit in London after the acrimonious White House spat between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president.

Mr Macron only revealed the plan for a one-month truce on the flight back from London in an interview with Le Figaro, which wrote: Emmanuel Macron does not believe in the ceasefire agreement between the Americans and the Russians, convinced that Vladimir Putin will first of all try to humiliate Ukraine, in particular by demilitarising it.

As an alternative, it said Mr Macron and Sir Keir Starmer proposed a one-month truth that would not involve ground troops.

The advantage, he said, was we know how to measure it.

You have to bear in mind that the front line today is the equivalent of the Paris-Budapest line (in terms of distance). In the event of a ceasefire, it would be very difficult to check that the front was being respected, Mr Macron said.

European peacekeeping troops would only be deployed at a later stage, he made clear.

There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks. The question is how we use this time to try to obtain an accessible truce, with negotiations that will take several weeks and then, once peace has been signed, a deployment.

The French president added: We want peace. We dont want it at any price, without guarantees.

However, on Monday, Luke Pollard, the UK Armed Forces minister, downplayed Mr Macrons comments, insisting no agreement has been made on what a truce looks like.

But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine, Mr Pollard told Times Radio.

Ukrainian armed forces fire a M109 155mm self-propelled howitzer towards Russian positions in the Donetsk region - Getty Images

He said: We think it essential there is a US backstop to make this work.

Asked again, Mr Pollard replied: At the moment, weve pledged that the UK will step up as part of that multinational movement. Were still working through those negotiations.

He added: I dont think its right to get into making an announcement before weve obviously reached the deal, which I obviously cant do If the US isnt involved, we will struggle to get that durable peace.

As discussions continue over the form of any ceasefire, the UK and France are pushing for a Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Canada and Turkey are involved in discussions about joining Sir Keirs so-called coalition of the willing, which could see soldiers being sent to Ukraine to enforce a deal.

The plan is the UK and Frances response to a series of private requests made by Mr Trump following his public row with Mr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, Bloomberg reports.

The US president wants Mr Zelensky to apologise and declare that he wants peace before returning to the White House to sign a minerals agreement.

Mr Trump is also unwilling to commit to backing European troops who are sent to Ukraine until Europe produces a plan to stop the fighting.

Asked to comment on whether Mr Zelensky was gambling with World War Three, a claim Mr Trump made during the Oval Office row, the French foreign minister acknowledged the danger of the conflict spreading.

Never has the risk of a war in Europe, in the European Union, been so high... the threat keeps getting closer to us, the front line keeps getting closer to us, said Mr Barrot.

To end the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, we want the United States, through pressure, to be able to bring Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table and agree to put an end once and for all to his imperialist ambitions which have moved the front line closer and closer to home, he added.

Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, said Sundays London summit was not aimed at achieving peace.

This clearly does not relate to a peace plan, but would allow for the continuation of hostilities, he told reporters.
Members of ZAKA rescue services carry the body of a 70-year-old killed in stabbing attack in Haifa - AP

A man has been killed and at least four wounded in a suspected terror attack in the Israeli city of Haifa, medical officials have said.

The victim was in his 70s, while a teenage boy plus a woman in her thirties and another in her seventies were also injured in the attack, which was described by witnesses as a combined stabbing and shooting spree.

It was later described by police as a stabbing attack. They identified the assailant as a member of Israels Druze Arab minority.

The Magen Davod Adom emergency service said four people had been injured, although various Hebrew media outlets have reported the number as six.

It comes as Israel teeters on the brink of all-out war with Hamas again after phase one of the hostage deal elapsed with no further agreement.

The latest attack took place on Monday morning near a shopping centre on Histadrut Boulevard in the northern coastal city.

Videos showed armed police converging to a point at the edge of the shopping centre amid the sounds of sirens.

It follows a failed bombing attack in Tel Aviv where three buses exploded due to suspected home-made devices which are thought to have detonated prematurely.

A series of terror attacks occurred in Israel following the start of the Gaza war on Oct 7, 2023. Authorities often blamedterrorists, a term they use for incidents linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Until Monday, the Gaza truce had coincided with a halt to such attacks within Israel, as violence largely subsided in Gaza after more than 15 months of war between Israel and Hamas.

11:04 AM GMT

Thats all for today

Thanks for following our live coverage of a suspected terror attack in Haifa, northern Israel. It has now ended.

Heres a summary of what happened:

A man was killed and at least four wounded in a suspected terror attack in the Israeli city of Haifa

The victim was in his 70s, while a teenage boy plus a woman in her thirties and another in her seventies were also injured in the attack

It was initially described by witnesses as a combined stabbing and shooting spree. It was later described by police as a stabbing attack.

It comes as Israel teeters on the brink of all-out war with Hamas again after phase one of the hostage deal elapsed with no further agreement.

Well be back soon with more updates and analysis from the Middle East.

10:32 AM GMT

Attacker shouted Allahu Akbar before stabbing spree

The attacker in this mornings stabbing spree in Haifa reportedly started shouting Allahu Akbar before launching a stabbing spree.

An eyewitness told the Walla news site: He got off the bus at the Hamifratz station, shouted Allahu Akbar and started stabbing people.

Security guards shot him.

He was killed at the scene.

10:24 AM GMT

Netanyahu pays tribute to stabbing victim

Benjamin Netanyahu has paid tribute to the 70-year-old man who was killed in this mornings suspected terror attack.

We will continue to fight those who seek to take our lives everywhere  and we will defeat them, the Israeli prime minister said in a statement.

10:02 AM GMT

Watch: Armed police respond to suspected terror attack

Credit: Social Media

09:44 AM GMT

Attacker was Israeli citizen, say police

The terrorist who carried out a deadly attack in Haifa this morning was an Israeli citizen, according to police.

H was killed by a bus station security guard shortly after launching a stabbing spree.

09:38 AM GMT

Attack comes amid fears of Gaza war restarting

This mornings attack came as Israel teeters on the brink of all-out war with Hamas again after phase one of the hostage deal elapsed with no further agreement.

Israel blocked the entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza on Sunday after a disagreement with the Palestinian Islamist movement over extending the ceasefire.

A satelite image shows trucks waiting on the Egyptian side of the Gaza-Egypt border crossing - REUTERS

Trucks carrying aid wait in front of the Rafah border crossing - Getty Images Europe

09:16 AM GMT

In pictures: Aftermath of Haifa attack

Members of Israeli security and emergency services deploy at the site of an attack at a central bus station in Haifa - AFP

Israeli police guard the area where a suspected stabbing attack took place in Haifa - REUTERS

09:05 AM GMT

Police working to identify terrorist

Daniel Levy, Israels police chief, said his forces were working to identify the assailant in this mornings terror attack in Haifa.

The identity of the eliminated terrorist is not yet clear. We are scanning the area in order to rule out the presence of additional assailants, he said.

08:42 AM GMT

Man, 70, killed in attack

Emergency services have said a 70-year-old man was killed in todays terror attack.

Four others were injured, according to the Magen David Adom emergency service, including a teenage boy and a three-year-old woman.

08:37 AM GMT

Attacker neutralised on scene

An attacker involved in the suspect shooting and stabbing attack in Haifa has been neutralised at the scene, police have said.

Reports from Israel suggested the attack was carried out by two men using a gun and a knife.

According to emergency services, five people were injured, including one in critical condition.

08:34 AM GMT

Welcome to our live coverage

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of a suspected shooting in Haifa, northern Israel.

Well bring you the latest updates throughout the day.
One in three doctors in the NHS are so tired that their ability to treat patients is impaired, according to a report that reveals medics are more sleep deprived now than during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Longer hours, staff shortages and soaring demand for care on top of the backlog that worsened during the Covid crisis are causing extreme tiredness among doctors, leading to memory blanks, problems concentrating and patient harm.

More than one-third (35%) of doctors said they were so tired that their ability to treat patients was impaired, according to the survey conducted by the Medical Defence Union (MDU), which provides legal support to about 200,000 doctors, nurses, dentists and other healthcare workers across the UK.

A further third (34%) said their ability to practise medicine may have been impaired. Of the 69% who said extreme tiredness had or may have impaired their ability to treat patients, one in four (26%) said one of their patients had been harmed or a near miss had occurred as a result.

The findings of the study, published this week, suggests NHS medics are even more exhausted than they were three years ago.

When doctors last answered confidential questions about tiredness in February 2022, nearly one in 10 (9%) said they felt sleep deprived at work on a daily basis. Three years on, the proportion affected had more than doubled to one in five (22%).

The proportion of medics saying extreme tiredness had impaired their ability to treat patients was 26% in 2022 and 35% in 2025.

In 2022, more than one in six (17%) said sleep deprivation was affecting their technical abilities when caring for patients. In 2025, it was more than one in five (22%).

Dr Udvitha Nandasoma, the MDUs head of advisory services, said the findings were deeply concerning. There has been no letup in the immense pressures faced by healthcare professionals in the past three years and this is continuing to impact doctors mental health and affect patient care, he said.

When patients come to harm as a result of an impaired doctor, tiredness and fatigue are so common that they might not stand out as contributing factors and the focus can unfairly fall on the individual clinician. Nearly four in 10 doctors (38%) told us they were rarely or never able to take breaks during the working day, including lunch breaks. This is an unsustainable situation.

If the government is to succeed in its 10-year health plan for the NHS, it needs staff to be firing on all cylinders so they can safely care for patients.

The survey of about 500 doctors across the UK uncovered 69 patient safety near misses as a direct result of exhaustion. A further 17 cases involved NHS patients experiencing real harm.

This was an increase on 2022 when there were almost 40 near misses reported and seven cases where patients sustained harm, despite slightly more doctors being surveyed.

One doctor said extreme tiredness was causing them to frequently lose their train of thought. They had missed a small area of free air under the diaphragm on a patients chest X-ray, which led to a delayed diagnosis of a bowel perforation. I dont want to make excuses for myself, but I believe that had I not been sleep deprived, I wouldnt have made this error, they said.

Susannah Basile, the interim chief executive of the charity Doctors in Distress, said sleep-deprived medics struggled to provide the quality of care for patients that they wanted to.

Doctors are leaving work exhausted and feeling insufficiently rested when they return, which can lead to burnout. Adequate rest breaks need to be both prioritised and respected, she said. This means not only enabling access to rest and sleep facilities at work but also ensuring rotas protect and respect non-working days to give staff sufficient time to reset before their next shift.

The MDU wants ministers to do more to guarantee there are adequate resources to enable doctors to take regular breaks.

The government said doctors had been overworked for years and it had inherited an NHS with broken systems and infrastructure that were only making their jobs harder, so it was no surprise that many were feeling burnt out and demoralised.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson added: Through our investment and reforms, we are turning the NHS around, making it a great place to work so staff can provide top quality service for their patients. We will set out our plans to grow and support the NHS workforce when we publish our refreshed long-term workforce plan in summer.
File image of St Antony's College

A college at the University of Oxford has been accused of fostering a hostile environment for Jewish and Israeli students.

Current and former students claim St Antonys College has become toxic, with complaints over incidents including a comment by a peer who allegedly said: Oh I didnt know we let Jews into St Antonys.

They also allege that the Middle East Centre, located at St Antonys and which serves as Oxfords main research hub for studying the modern Middle East, has frequently hosted speakers spouting anti-Israel conspiracy theories.

Jewish students have further accused Prof Eugene Rogan, who heads the centre, of dismissing their complaints.

Several college alumni told The Telegraph they were now warning prospective Jewish students not to apply.

It comes amid wider concerns about anti-Semitism at UK universities including Oxford. The Government recently announced a 7 million fund to tackle the problem.

One-sided teaching

A spokesman for the Oxford Israel Society told The Telegraph: St Antonys College has a long-standing reputation for being a hostile environment for students and staff who support Israels existence.

Its consistently one-sided teaching and implicit endorsement of extremism have contributed to an atmosphere of intolerance at Oxford University, where academic freedom suffers.

Until meaningful change occurs, we strongly discourage Jewish, Zionist and Israeli students from applying to St Antonys College.

The concerns about St Antonys come after Lord Hague used his inaugural speech as Oxford chancellor last month to warn that the universitys commitment to free speech could not be used as an excuse for anti-Semitism or any other kind of religious or ethnic hatred  the great evils of history.

He also promised that Oxford would not espouse concrete views on global issues, telling students: We do not need a foreign policy: we are not a country.

The Telegraph has seen a dossier that several students passed to Prof Rogan last summer raising concerns over anti-Israel conspiracy theories shared by academics who were due to speak at St Anthonys.

This included one guest speaker sharing social media posts which described the Oct 7 attacks as a mass rape hoax, and others circulating alleged footage from Gaza that X has flagged as fake.

An Israeli student who attended a recent talk at the Middle East Centre said visiting speakers had used consistent language as if Israel is the puppeteer or grand master of everything.

They added: As a Jewish student just attending them, I would never dare ask a question that was seemingly pushing the boundaries, its such a hostile environment and even when they have these fringe far, far-Left Israeli speakers, the crowd destroys them.

If you were a kid from Middle England and had no connection to the Middle East, you would walk away thinking this [Israel] is some bizarre pimple where nothing happens beyond war-peace-war-peace, and theres sort of no discussion of anything else going on in society.

Israel consistently depicted negatively

The Middle East Centre at the college regularly hosts guest speakers on Friday nights, with another Jewish student telling The Telegraph that this amounted to automatically excluding any Jewish student that observes Shabbat from attending.

They added: If youre speaking about the Middle East, like, its obvious that thats excluding Jewish students. Theres any other time of the week that you could do it. I havent been to the talks because I keep Shabbat so I cant go to them.

It comes after The Telegraph reported last month that Prof Avi Shlaim, an emeritus fellow at St Antonys College, had described the Oct 7 terror attack as a powerful message that showed the Palestinian resistance is not dead.

Prof Shlaim told The Telegraph: To say that the Hamas attack sent a powerful message in no way legitimises it. It is a simple statement of fact.

Jewish students also said course material delivered through the Middle East Centre consistently depicted Israel in a negative light.

One told The Telegraph that Jewish students would not feel comfortable [in seminars] basically representing the official view of the United Kingdom on the current conflict, which is to condemn Hamas and condemn terrorism.

They added: We are for free speech, but they had a seminar, for instance, about the Axis of Resistance  without ever mentioning terrorism, without ever mentioning the massacre of Oct 7, the hostage-taking, without ever mentioning the other parts that this ideology entails.

No meaningful change after complaints

Jewish students also said they had raised complaints with St Antonys officials about abusive comments made by peers since the Oct 7 attacks but that they had not resulted in any meaningful change.

They said this included fellow students at the college sharing conspiracy theories including: Why is there even a need for Israel, if Jews control the world?

One student also said they had seen a huge portrait of Leila Khaled, a former Palestinian militant and plane hijacker, on the wall of Prof Rogans office. They claimed that as a Middle East scholar, there is no way he would not know what Khaled did and what type of fear that would evoke for students of Israeli nationality.

Several students said they would actively discourage other Jewish people from applying to St Antonys because the anti-Semitism at St Antonys is known throughout the community to be just really bad.

A former student at the college said: I felt after understanding what this community was about, I was going to spend as little time as I possibly [could] at St Antonys, on the campus.

Sometimes I came in if I had a friend to see, but I wouldnt spend time there alone without any reason  I just felt like I was part of a hostile atmosphere that didnt accept me as a Jew, didnt accept me as an Israeli, regardless of what my views were.

Students spoke to The Telegraph on the condition of anonymity, saying that the collegiate system at Oxford made it difficult to raise complaints about officials without fear of backlash from the college community.

St Antonys helping to demonise Israel

Charles Asher Small, the president of the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy (ISGAP), accused the college of playing a crucial role in legitimising the demonisation of Israel and Jewish identity at the intellectual level.

Mr Small, an alumnus of St Antonys, also claimed a delegation of academics were physically marched out of a conference held at the college in 2019 after professors complained they were Zionist racists ... supporting the occupation of Palestine.

The racialisation and publicness in Africa and the African diaspora conference, which took place at the African Studies Centre at St Antonys in June 2019, invited experts to discuss the contemporary problem of racialisation.

A statement posted on the centres website said that some professors expressed reservations about ISGAPs involvement and accused Mr Small and others of hijacking the conference.

ISGAP has called for a review of academic programmes, particularly those related to Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies at Oxford colleges, including St Antonys, to ensure that all curricula provide a balanced perspective and do not promote extremist ideologies.

It has also called for clear guidelines for faculty participation in political activism, particularly when it relates to contentious issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

College rejects anti-Semitism

A spokesman for St Antonys College said: We are dismayed to hear that some of our students have felt excluded in these ways and would always ask any student with concerns to come forward to the college authorities.

We reject anti-Semitism and all expressions of hatred. We are fully committed to all our students, from every religious, cultural and national background, and wish to ensure that all are included in college life to the fullest extent possible.

Prof Rogan said he rejected claims that the Middle East Centre has only hosted fringe Israeli speakers in recent years and that it had invited a number of distinguished and diverse speakers from Israel in order to treat the widest range of views.

He added: My colleagues and I take the welfare of our students and community very seriously. I am dismayed that any student might come away with the feelings or experiences that are described in the article.
I think we can all agree that this was Parliament at its best. No questions, no scrutiny, just a collective dash to war and some mindless patriotism.

Keir Starmer told a packed House that the nation stands with Ukraine and will be sending them bombs made in Belfast (now thats a stamp of quality!). Kemi thanked him for our conversation earlier today  which explains his black eye  and said she stands with him, too. Indeed, the session quickly became standing room only as MPs rose to praise the PM and his proposed coalition of the willing.

There arent many countries in that coalition yet  just Britain and France (as long as the war doesnt intrude on weekends)  but its ranks could easily be filled with middle-aged MPs, pundits, twitterers and collectors of Antony Beevor books, who all seem convinced they could have Vladimir Putin in a fight.

Nigel Farage received a ripple of boos when he rose to ask a question - House of Commons

Ed Davey went even further: hed like to defend Ukraine without America and its horrible president. Everyone who watched the Zelensky/Trump press conference had been shocked and appalled, he said, except, it seems, the member for Clacton  a dig at Nigel Farage that failed to register on the face of its globe-trotting target. Nigel routinely forgets that member for Clacton refers to him.

When Tovarich Farageski finally stood up, to a ripple of boos, he had the audacity to ask actual substantive questions of the policy: is the Trump mineral deal not a backstop and under what conditions would British troops serve in Ukraine? The PM suggested he was fawning over Putin, which deftly answered every point. Starmer was politer with lefty Richard Burgon, who asked if there would be a House vote before military action? Yes, said Keir. James Cleverly furiously shook his head, presumably of the view that it isnt necessary.

A tear gathered in the corner of my eye. Here we are debating a war for democracy and there will be some MPs  our ruddy, bloody brave MPs  willing to make the ultimate sacrifice of their own voting rights. A few Labour members brought up the foreign aid cuts; Tory Andrew Murrison asked about the risks of sending British soldiers in without US security guarantees (the implication: if it all goes wrong, well need the Yanks to back us up). But I felt reassured by the overall uniformity of thinking, the kind of consensus that got us through the dark days of Iraq and lockdown, buttressed by the foreign policy experience of several package holidays on the Continent and a skim read of The Economist on the plane over.

This Parliament knows who the real enemy is. Its Reform.

George Freeman (Con) suggested the PM point out to the member for Clacton  again, no idea who youre talking about  that our enemys watching this chamber and that speaking with one voice is very important.

Well, Im pleased to discover that someone still watches the Commons; Im surprised to find its Putin. And no doubt he threw his borscht at the TV and cried: Damn those British swine for speaking with one voice! Dmitry, call the general staff! Our invasion of Clacton is cancelled!
Pete Hegseth, seen at the recent meeting between Donald Trump and Sir Keir Starmer, has told his cyber spies to take their focus away from Russia - Andrew Harnik/Getty

Donald Trumps Pentagon chief has ordered a halt to work to counter cyber threats from Russia.

Pete Hegseths instructions are part of a larger re-evaluation of all operations against Moscow, US officials said.

The order to Gen Timothy Haugh, the Cyber Command chief, reflects the Trump administrations decision to downplay threats from Russia.

Earlier in the week, Liesyl Franz, the deputy assistant secretary for international cyber space security at the department of state, had highlighted China and Iran  but not Russia  as the major threat to US infrastructure.

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (Cisa), which is part of the Department of Homeland Security, also did not mention Russia in a memo.

A tilt towards Moscow by the Trump administration, reversing the Biden administrations policy of trying to isolate Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, is underpinning the moves.

The order to Gen Timothy Haugh, the Cyber Command chief, reflects the Trump administrations decision to downplay threats from Russia - Jim Watson/AFP via Getty

Chuck Schumer, the Democrats leading senator, criticised Mr Trump for giving Vladimir Putin a free pass as Russia continues cyber attacks on US infrastructure, calling the administrations move a critical strategic mistake.

Details emerged following the White House row between Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, and both Mr Trump and JD Vance, the US vice-president. However, the order was issued before the Friday meeting between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

US officials said Russia had been attempting to infiltrate US networks, starting in the early days of the Trump administration.

Whether Mr Hegseths instructions will extend beyond the few hundred people working on Russia at Cyber Command remains unclear. But it is feared the move could hinder support given to Ukraine to counter cyber threats from Russia.

Ransomware attacks on US hospitals, infrastructure, and cities have increased over the past year, with many originating from Russia.

Intelligence officials have said these are mostly criminal acts, either approved or overlooked by Russian intelligence agencies.

Pentagon order

Mr Hegseths orders upend a warning given last September by several US government agencies, including the FBI and the National Security Agency of systematic cyber attacks on the US.

The agencies accused the Russian general staff main intelligence directorate of orchestrating attacks for the purposes of espionage, sabotage and reputational harm since at least 2020.

Mr Hegseths stance also flies in the face of the assessment of other Western governments, which have long warned of the cyber threat from both the Kremlin and criminal gangs operating from Russia.

The Trump administration has also already started rolling back efforts by the FBI and other agencies to warn about Russian propaganda. A Pentagon order will pause Cyber Commands efforts to disrupt future Russian influence campaigns.

Russia can turn the lights off for millions

In Europe, Russian sabotage efforts, such as attempts to cut communications cables, mysterious explosions, and assassination plots, have intensified over the past year.

The US has, until now, been key in supporting European nations through covert cyber operations, but this co-operation may be at risk following Mr Hegseths instructions.

Many of the operations are carried out by the British Governments communications headquarters  the same intelligence agency that broke the Enigma codes during the Second World War.

In November, Pat McFadden, a member of Sir Keir Starmers Cabinet, warned that Vladimir Putin was capable of launching destabilising and debilitating electronic strike on the UK.

Mr McFadden, the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, told a Nato cyber defence conference in London: With a cyber attack, Russia can turn the lights off for millions of people. It can shut down the power grids. This is the hidden war Russia is waging with Ukraine.

Last year, Qilin, a Russian criminal ransomware gang, was held responsible for an attack that crippled two NHS trusts. The gang, to which Putin is thought to have turned a blind eye, threatened to expose patient data unless a fee was paid.

The Telegraph has approached Cyber Command for comment.
The Ancestor Project at Nkyinkyim Museum in Ghana. Each head takes up to three weeks to complete and many are likenesses of real people. Photograph: Keelson Studio/The Guardian

At the end of a sandy path, lined with bamboo trees, lies a clearing with thousands of clay head sculptures. One is of a woman whose hair is half done, another shows a man blindfolded. Some heads have masks signifying royalty. In a small pond are dozens more sculptures, some with shackles round their necks.

Each head placed at the Nykyinkyim Museum in Ghana represents someone who was enslaved and taken from the continent of Africa by Europeans to face a life of struggle, brutality and death.

Clay head sculptures lie in water at the Nykinkyim Museum in Ada, Ghana. Each one represents someone who was enslaved

Its emotional for me, I have to control my feelings every time I come, says Ackah Komla Swanzy , who is a a griot (a west African storyteller and educator) and an artist who makes some of the sculptures. These are my own people. I view them as my siblings. Its like losing your family member who you wont see again.

Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, an artist, activist and founder of the museum, models a clay head in an art workshop for visitors

The sculptures are part of the Ancestor Project, conceived by Kwame Akoto-Bamfo, an artist, educator and activist, who founded the museum in 2019. Nkyinkyim is an Akan word that means twisting. It is also the name of a symbol that represents the nature of lifes journey and the characteristics required to thrive in it.

The museum is in Ada, about 100 miles (160km) east of the capital, Accra, and has become a place for people, mostly those of African descent, to confront the past through art and education. The 46-hectare (115-acre) site houses Akoto-Bamfos studio, features a visual archive of African history and culture, including models of Indigenous architecture, and pays homage to aspects of black history that are often overlooked  such as the contribution of soldiers from African countries in the first and second world wars. Visitors can choose to stay overnight at accommodation on site and take part in art workshops, pilgrimages, naming ceremonies and initiation rites.

About 3,500 clay head sculptures are displayed in a clearing at the Nkyinkyim Museum. The aim is to complete 11,111 of them

Akoto-Bamfo, 42, who made the first sculpture of a head in 2009, says he was compelled to start the project after years of feeling a very strong desire to do something.

Akoto-Bamfo made his first sculpture of a head in 2009, and founded the Nkyinkyim Museum in 2019

Growing up, he experienced the legacies of colonialism. Ghana achieved independence from the British in 1957. At school, teachers preferred people with European accents, he remembers; and a university education and spending time abroad were highly valued. The closer you were to whiteness, the better for you in our societies. And even to a large extent, its the same now, he says.

But he knew it was wrong. Theres always something innate that draws your attention to humanity and human rights and justice  You notice something needs to be addressed and thats what happened for me.

He adds: It was representation. It was telling our side of the story  I knew I wanted to address the anger and the pain and the frustrations.

Head sculptures are a way of documenting family portraits of the dead among the Akans, the largest and most prominent ethic group in Ghana, to which Akoto-Bamfo belongs. For generations, this practice served to commemorate African ancestors until colonialism misrepresented it as linked with evil, and pushed it to the sidelines.

Ackah Komla Swanzy, an artist and griot, stands amid some of the thousands of sculptures at the Nkyinkyim Museum

Each head takes Akoto-Bamfo up to three weeks to complete. He has a team of apprentices who help. Some, he says, are based on visions, but many are likenesses of real people. At first, he used family and friends as inspiration, but now he gets requests and photos from all over the world. The only requirement is that an individual should have a relative who is black.

There are now more than 3,500 sculptures, but the aim is to make and display 11,111 heads, a number that symbolises unity for Akoto-Bamfo.Within the clearing are baobab and acacia trees, known for their medicinal properties. It is a sacred place where traditional priests and priestesses come to pray, and to conduct ceremonies and processions.

The heads surround baobab trees, which are known for their medicinal properties

Visitors include school groups as well as many African Americans and others from the diaspora. Hollywood actor Samuel L Jackson featured the project in his series Enslaved, the vice-president of Costa Rica has visited, and so has the US ambassador and the deputy British high commissioner in Ghana.

Visits can be highly charged and emotional. Akoto-Bamfo has seen people cry, laugh as well as get angry. He has been at the receiving end of peoples grievances around slavery and other continuing human rights abuses. Some people have asked why he allows white people into the space.

The museum site also features a visual archive of African history and culture

Sometimes, when people vent to me, they forget I am also black and Im also African, he says. They will pour their grievances into me like I was the other and, even though I know that is not their intention, thats a lot to take in.

The psychological load has taken its toll on Akoto-Bamfo. In 2020, he started having panic attacks and has had to seek medical treatment on a few occasions.

Visitors from Germany and the UK take part in an art workshop led by Akoto-Bamfo

He began therapy and has learned to control what he takes on, though he admits, his is a tough role to play. One day, he would like to be able to rest, but for now he cant see beyond his sweet burden, finishing the 11,111 sculptures he has committed to.

The project is entirely funded by Akoto-Bamfo through art commissions and public appearances. The bravest thing you can do as an artist is to pick up an uncomfortable human rights issue because people want to be happy with art, he says. People want to sip wine and feel good about themselves.
Environmental economists at Exeter University say there may be significant risks in converting farmland to forests in a future of both climate and economic uncertainty. Photograph: Richard Newstead/Getty Images

An investment portfolio approach needs to be applied to large-scale tree planting across the world to reduce the risks of the wrong species being planted in the wrong place, economists have said.

Countries have made ambitious pledges to plant billions of trees to remove greenhouse gases and tackle global heating. The UK has committed to plant 30,000 hectares (74,000 acres) of trees each year by 2025 and maintain the rate until 2050, the European Commission has pledged to plant 3bn trees across member states by 2030, and the US under the previous administration committed to planting 1bn trees by the same date.

But the types of trees that are needed, and where to plant them, are decisions that have to be made now, though future conditions remain uncertain.

The study suggests the risks of future tree planting and the economic risk of its failure could be mitigated by adopting the approach of financial investors, who spread risk across a portfolio of companies by choosing assets like stocks, bonds, and commodities to strike an efficient balance.

Environmental economists at Exeter University say there are significant risks of converting farmland to forests in a future of climate change and economic uncertainty, such as large-scale tree planting displacing agriculture and affecting food security, depending on where it takes place.

But an investment portfolio approach to tree planting, which combines climate risk with economic risk, is the best, most cost-effective way of removing carbon if careful choices are made about which trees to plant where, the researchers said.

Frankie Cho, a PhD graduate from the University of Exeter and the lead author of the study, said: One problem is that, because it is unclear what countries round the world will do to tackle climate change, we dont know how challenging the climate will be in the future.

If climate change is extreme, broadleaf trees in the southern UK offer the best carbon removal  but thats prime farmland and could be really costly under certain economic futures.

If climate change is milder, planting conifers on less productive land makes more sense, but those trees will not grow well if conditions are more extreme. The problem is that we dont know what the future holds and cant be certain which type of trees we need to plant and where.

Diversifying species and locations for tree planting would minimise the danger of betting on the wrong future, ensuring tree-planting decisions remain resilient in the face of uncertain future climatic and economic conditions, the study, published on Monday in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, says.

Cho said previous studies have examined the risks posed by either climate or economic variables in isolation, but the risks were inherently interdependent and correlated. The new study took the UK as a model and examined economic risks and climate uncertainties to create a planting portfolio which took both uncertainties into consideration.

In the study, the researchers wrote: Trees of one species are planted in a given location because they tend to give good returns under future conditions in which trees planted in another location give poor returns, and vice versa.

The planting strategy is a portfolio in the sense that it includes planting of both these varieties and thereby limits exposure to downside risk, the possibility of returns falling below a certain threshold.

Brett Day, a professor of environmental economics at the University of Exeter and also an author of the study, said: We dont have any other option that can remove carbon from the atmosphere at the scale and cost that we need to meet our net zero targets. While tree-planting carries risks, our study shows that, if done strategically, it remains the best solution we have.
David Sherborne (right) has represented the Duke of Sussex in his court battles with the tabloid press - Tejas Sandhu/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

The Duke of Sussex wants a public inquiry into tabloid phone hacking, his lawyer has said.

David Sherborne, who has represented the Duke in his various battles against newspapers, said he wanted an inquiry as well as a proper investigation by the police.

The Duke accepted an eight-figure financial settlement from News Group Newspapers (NGN), the publisher of The Sun, in January, ending his legal action just as a trial was due to get under way.

The eleventh-hour deal came just weeks after the Duke vowed never to settle his claim for unlawful information gathering, insisting that his sole goal was accountability.

However, he hailed a 296-word statement in which NGN admitted unlawful activity by private investigators working for The Sun for the first time as a monumental victory.

Rupert Murdochs company also apologised to the Duke for the impact of extensive coverage and serious intrusion into his private life and that of his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales.

Mr Sherborne told The News Agents podcast: I think Harry achieved what he wanted to achieve as far as the process could take him.

What happens next is really for the authorities to decide and thats what he wants. Thats what hes asked for and well have to see what the response is.

Asked if the Duke wanted a public inquiry, he replied: I think he wants a proper investigation by the police, and then they can decide if charges are to be brought, and he wants an inquiry.

Lawyers for both the Duke and fellow claimant Lord Watson, the former deputy Labour leader, are understood to be preparing a dossier of evidence to hand to the police in an attempt to force a new investigation into criminality.

Mr Sherborne said the civil litigation had uncovered all sorts of evidence that the police did not have at the time the original trials took place.

To my mind, there is a lot of evidence that hasnt been investigated, he said.

I took it to the line as far as we can go. Its then for the authorities or for Parliament to take it further.

Mr Sherborne admitted that part of him was disappointed the high-profile trial never got off the ground.

Professionally, you want to get the best result for your client and that was the best result in all sorts of ways, he said.

Slightly disappointed

Did I feel that I missed an opportunity, personally, to have an eight-week trial with all the press and reporting, and the impact it has for hacking I was slightly disappointed not to be able to do that.

The Duke won his claim against Mirror Group Newspapers in December 2023, when the High Court found that his phone had been hacked.

At the time, he called on the Metropolitan Police to investigate, but more than 12 months on, the force has not responded.

A trial of his claims against Associated Newspapers, publisher of the Daily Mail, is due to take place in January 2026.

The Duke, Baroness Lawrence, the mother of murdered teenager Stephen Lawrence, and Sir Elton John are among seven high-profile claimants suing the newspaper group over the alleged misuse of private information.
Ukrainian military paramedics evacuate a wounded serviceman from the front line - Aris Messinis/AFP

Meanwhile, people keep dying in Ukraine. Russian aggression delivers mass death by a ghastly mixture of modern technology, chiefly drones (now nearly 50 per cent of Ukrainian deaths in battle), and Great War-style bombardments.

During his Oval Office set-up of President Zelensky last Friday, Donald Trump said that men were dying because of a lot of bullets. Actually, bullets achieve only two per cent of the deaths.

In the past three years, the number of Ukrainians killed probably matches the 58,000 Americans who died over 20 years in Vietnam. There may be four times as many dead Russians.

The only cure is a just peace, but deaths can be reduced now  a precious achievement, militarily and morally. Last week, after following the politics in Kyiv, I travelled east, to the Zaporizhzhia oblast, to see lives being saved at the front.

Time is key, loss of blood being the biggest single cause of avoidable death. In Afghanistan and Iraq, the British defined the Golden Hour in which a wounded man could be helicoptered out. No such luxury exists in Ukraine. Any helicopter entering the zone would be destroyed.

Far from sparing medical operations, the Russians target them. Wounded lying on the battlefield are observed by Russian drones and attacked when they and their rescuers emerge from hiding. Sometimes they are trapped in freezing foxholes for days, long enough for the tourniquets designed to save them to induce organ failure and death.

The Russians constantly bomb stabilisation points  role one in the sequence of medical treatment  and military hospitals.

I met the charismatic Lt-Col Roman Kuziv, the officer commanding medical services in the east (scene of most of the fighting for 500,000 soldiers), aged only 36 but a general by acting rank. Though Ukrainian, he trained as a doctor in Catalonia, where his wife and two young daughters live. He has been at the front for three years this month.

We drove to one of his 150 stabilisation points, seven miles from the front. Suddenly our armoured vehicle descended a steep incline, passed through strips of camouflage and parked 20 feet below ground. When we were on the surface, said Col Kuziv, The Russians bombed us 16 times, killing one, injuring nine. So I dug this.

We entered a hall supported by wooden pillars, a log cabin. Off it lay several rooms, each protected by corrugated iron, containing one well-equipped hospital bed.

Patients are divided into red (or hard-wounded), yellow and green (minor injuries). Ten per cent of the wounded are red. Once stabilised, they are transported to surgery, a journey that can take four hours. Such is the efficiency that the facility can manage, at maximum, 200 patients a day.

That particular day, the local front was quiet, so we drove on to another stabilisation point, a makeshift mini-hospital in what resembled large tents within a semi-derelict building. Though overground, it was concealed. No ambulance dares linger. An emergency bunker was being dug.

Here I witnessed what I had come to see  the work of my hosts MOAS (moas.eu), a charity, international and British-registered, which began quite differently. Its initials stand for migrant offshore aid station. It was set up to help refugees in the Mediterranean.

Several years ago, however, its charismatic founder-leader, Christopher Catrambone, decided there were more lives to be saved in Ukraine. MOAS became the main casualty evacuators (casevac) for the Ukrainian army, conveying, by this month, 67,648 casualties, overwhelmingly red patients. None has died during their evacuations.

The key to success is that MOASs people are trained doctors and paramedics. Col Kuziv trusts them to transport the patients, continuing to stabilise them as they go.

I saw it happen. At the stabilisation point, a hard-wounded 50-year-old soldier was being treated by six army medical staff for more than an hour. He had shrapnel in both legs, one hand, his abdomen, spleen, thorax and face. He looked a bloody mess.

Once stabilised, he was gently trussed up for the journey, wrapped in foil against hypothermia (the outside temperature was sub-zero) and handed over to the MOAS ambulance and staff.

I travelled beside the wounded, oxygenated, unconscious man on the half-hour journey to the hospital which could operate. Attending to him throughout were a paramedic and Dr Inna, a tiny young anaesthetist, both from MOAS. As we bumped along the war-damaged roads, they found their way through a seemingly impossible tangle of wires to keep him stable.

The patient must be too ill to live, I thought, but Dr Inna, as she transferred him, said, with perfect confidence, that he would be all right.

MOASs expanding operations cost a lot and money has not kept up. The British government, though supportive, has not cut the bureaucratic Gordian knot about which department should pay. There is talk of needing a demand signal from Ukraine, yet Col Kuziv, the man who knows the most, has written to our Government to plead for MOAS.

The next day, I met Alina, a resolute 29-year-old woman who commands a MOAS team of 20 quartered every night underground to escape bombardment.

She longs to go home to the safer western Ukraine and start a family. With a volley of oaths, she tells me how she hates this war. But she adds, Im here because I need to be here. She is a volunteer, but her commitment is such that she feels she has no choice. I wish I could put her in front of President Trump. He might understand better if he met more Ukrainians.
Rachel Roddys hazelnut, spelt and butter biscotti. Photograph: Rachel Roddy/The Guardian

Seven years ago, I walked along Oxford Street in London with the baker and writer Henrietta Inman. I cant remember where wed been in order to be illuminated by Foot Locker and Muji at midnight, but I do remember we talked about spelt flour. Or, rather, Henrietta did, describing its flavour as soft and nutty, and all as part of our wider conversation about her decision to leave the subterranean pastry kitchen of a five-star London hotel and return home to Dorset, where she adapted her knowledge and skill to different ingredients, resulting in her book The Natural Baker.

Back then, I knew a bit about spelts importance in ancient cooking (by various civilisations, including the Romans, who called it the marching grain), but I was confused as to what spelt actually was, which wasnt helped by the translations: spelta, farro spelta, emmer, einkorn, dinkel wheat. While we crossed Regent Street and passed the many windows of John Lewis, Henrietta explained that spelt was a grass related to wheat and a cousin to farro; she also encouraged me to think less about names and more about flavour, and how it could work in pastry and biscuits. Also to try emmer, einkorn, rye and barley flour. It would take me seven years to heed her advice.

During those years, I would also have the chance to travel with Henrietta, who has since run a bakery within the Wakelyns organic agroforestry hub in Suffolk, and is about to open another (her own) as part of Hodmedods (also in Suffolk). Along with Italian journalist Laura Lazzaroni, we visited a biodynamic farm in Le Marche in eastern Italy called Coste del Sole, where we tasted just-milled farro dicocco flour, which was so fragrant and edible that I thought it contained hazelnuts. It was this same trip that also made me realise how little I had considered the flavour of flour.

Henrietta was right: spelt flour is soft and nutty, with notes of acidity and natural sweetness, which means recipes such as these hazelnut shortbreads (inspired by Henriettas malty biscuits, Lauras shortbread and my own need for hazelnuts) require less sugar, alongside plenty of butter. And, because they contain butter, it is crucial that the dough is well chilled (a couple of hours, to be safe), and even then the biscuits will spread slightly.

Its a good idea to lift the biscuits from the hot tray on to a rack to cool as soon as possible after they are baked, but do so very carefully  they are fragile until cold. It is also a good idea to have these biscuits with a hot drink  tea, milky coffee, hot chocolate  because warmth wakes three things: the oil in the nuts, the butter and  I think of Henrietta as I write this  the flavour of the flour.

Hazelnut, spelt and butter biscuits

Makes 12-14

120g spelt, wholegrain or plain flour

160g toasted hazelnuts, or almonds or walnuts, ground to a fine, sandy flour with the odd chunk

A pinch of salt

150g cold butter, cut into small cubes

90g muscovado sugar, or soft brown sugar

1 egg yolk

Working in a bowl, mix the flour with 100g of the ground nuts (save the rest for later) and the salt. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fat breadcrumbs, then add the sugar and egg yolk, and bring everything into a ball.

Form the dough into a log with a diameter of 5-6cm  it will be slightly sticky, but this is good, because the next step is to roll it in the reserved nut mix. Wrap the nut-covered log in baking paper and refrigerate until completely chilled  so for at least a couple of hours.

Heat the oven to 170C (150C fan)/340F/gas 3 and line a baking tray with paper. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1cm-thick rounds, then space them out well on the tray  the biscuits will spread by about 1cm. Keeping a close eye on them, bake the biscuits for 12-14 minutes, until they are light gold and just firm to the touch. Lift carefully on to a wire rack and leave to cool completely.
Then House candidate Summer Lee (left) with the Pittsburgh mayor, Ed Gainey, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on 12 May 2022. Photograph: Quinn Glabicki/Reuters

Several major Republican donors are throwing their financial support behind the primary opponent of Ed Gainey, who became Pittsburghs first Black mayor in 2022 and now faces a difficult re-election fight this year, in a seemingly concerted effort to oust the progressive leader.

The Democratic primary battle between Gainey and Corey OConnor, the Allegheny county controller, is shaping up to be one of the biggest tests of the progressive movement since Donald Trumps victory last November. The victor of the 20 May primary is widely expected to win the general election, and with few major races on the ballot this year, Gaineys re-election could provide a morale boost for progressives still reeling from Democrats losses in the 2024 races.

The mayoral race may also offer insight into the broader political environment in Pennsylvania, a pivotal battleground state that Trump won by roughly two points last year. While Trump made marginal gains in Philadelphia and its surrounding counties, his performance in Allegheny county, which covers Pittsburgh, remained virtually unchanged from four years earlier. Trump won just 22% of the Pittsburgh vote, while 77% went to Kamala Harris.

With so much attention on the mayoral race, prominent Republicans are now getting involved in the contest. According to campaign finance reports, several prominent Republican donors have already contributed the maximum allowable amount of $3,300 to OConnors war chest before the primary.

Those Republican donors include J Clifford Forrest, the founder of Rosebud Mining Company, who gave $1m to the Trump 2017 inaugural committee, and Kent McElhattan, who contributed more than $200,000 to Senate Republicans campaign arm during the 2024 election cycle. Herb Shear, who donated more than $675,000 to the Pac and Super Pac affiliated with the Republican Jewish Coalition during the 2024 cycle, also contributed the maximum allowable amount to OConnors campaign.

Those donations appear to be part of a larger effort by certain Republican operatives to boost OConnors prospects in the primary. According to an email seen by the Guardian, Jeff Kendall, a trustee of the conservative non-profit Commonwealth Partners, invited interested parties to a meeting with OConnor at a private social club in Pittsburgh last month. Jeffrey Yass, the billionaire financier and Republican mega-donor from a mainline suburb of Philadelphia, has previously been linked to Commonwealth Partners.

In his email, Kendall noted OConnor would open the meeting with his pitch and answer questions. Kendall added: Kent Gates of Brabender will discuss recent polling and the plan to win this race. According to his LinkedIn profile, Gates serves as senior director of strategic planning for data and insights at BrabenderCox, a Republican consulting firm that received more than $1.4m from Trumps leadership Pac, Never Surrender Inc, during the 2024 cycle.

Reached for comment, the OConnor campaign highlighted financial contributions to Gainey in past years that came from donors with ties to the Republican party. Those contributions included $5,000 in donations from Forrest and his wife, Tracy, during Gaineys 2021 mayoral campaign. A spokesperson for Gainey said he returned the Forrests full donations once he became aware of them, in a transaction that will be reflected in his February fundraising report.

Asked about OConnors February meeting, the candidates spokesperson said the campaign had no involvement in the planning of this event.

Corey spoke about his record of progressive reform and his plans to make housing more affordable, expanding before and after school programming, and reopening [recreation] centers, the OConnor campaign said.

This is the same stump speech that he has shared with hundreds of residents and dozens of community organizations across Pittsburgh. The campaign did not know who would be in attendance in advance.

If OConnor and his allies are successful, it would mark a significant defeat for the progressive organizers who helped carry Gainey to a primary victory four years ago. In 2021, Gainey, then a state representative, defeated the incumbent mayor, Bill Peduto, by seven points in the Democratic primary before going on to easily win the general election.

Since taking office, Gainey has faced questions about his handling of public safety concerns, although he often notes that the citys homicide rate has dropped significantly since 2022. More recently, Gainey attracted criticism from Republicans and rightwing media outlets in January, when he announced his administration would not work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Ice) agents amid Trumps calls for a mass-deportation program.

When OConnor launched his campaign in December, he decried a lack of vision from the Gainey administration, saying: When I look around, I see a mayor and an administration managing decline instead of trying to grow Pittsburgh.

OConnors primary bid is not the first recent effort to unseat one of Pittsburghs progressive leaders. The representative Summer Lee, a progressive who represents Pittsburgh in the House of Representatives, faced a well-funded primary challenge from local council member Bhavini Patel last year. The organization Moderate Pac, which was largely funded by Yass, spent more than $600,000 in support of Patels campaign.

Lee turned Yasss financial involvement in the primary into a campaign issue, attacking the mega-donor as an out-of-touch billionaire seeking to remove a promising, young progressive from office.

Everybody in the country is waiting to see whether or not we can have a reflective democracy, Lee said days before her primary. Were going to send a message to every dark-money billionaire, whoever they are: that your influence is no longer welcome in our democracy.

That message ultimately won out, as Lee went on to defeat Patel in the primary by 21 points.
Chuck Schumer speaks at the Capitol in February. Photograph: Douglas Christian/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock

A senior US Democrat has hit out at Donald Trumps attempt to reset relations with Russia following revelations that the presidents administration is retreating from the fight against Russian cyber threats, calling the reported move a critical strategic mistake.

In a statement on Sunday making reference to the Russian leader, New Yorks Chuck Schumer  the US Senates Democratic minority leader  said Trump was so desperate to earn the affection of a thug like Vladimir Putin he appears to be giving him a free pass as Russia continues to launch cyber operations and ransomware attacks against critical American infrastructure, threatening our economic and national security.

Schumer called the administrations move a critical strategic mistake in his statement, which he posted on X.

Related: US may exclude government spending from GDP, obscuring effect of Doge cuts

The criticism comes after the Guardian reported on Friday that Trumps administration had publicly and privately signaled that it does not believe Russia represents a cyber threat against US national security or vital infrastructure in a radical departure from longstanding intelligence assessments.

Furthermore, on Sunday, the New York Times reported that the US defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, had ordered a pause on all of the countrys cyber operations against Russia, including offensive actions. Hegseths reported maneuver came as the Trump administration looks to reset Washingtons relations with Moscow ahead of US-led peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which Russian forces invaded in February 2022.

Meanwhile, Britain and France have announced a rival plan for a coalition of the willing to secure a peace deal to end the three-year war.

The order to US Cyber Command to halt offensive operations against Russia was issued before the dramatic public breakdown of relations between the Trump administration and Ukraines president, Volodymr Zelenskyy, at the White House on Friday.

According to the Record, a cyber-focused US publication that first reported the instruction, Hegseths order to the cyber command chief, Gen Timothy Haugh, does not appear to apply to the National Security Agency or its signals intelligence work targeting Russia. The outlet cited sources.

The duration of Hegseths order has not been revealed  nor is it known what offensive digital operations are being suspended.

While it is not uncommon for there to be a pause in military operations between countries engaging in diplomatic negotiations, the suspension of US shadow war operations invites reciprocation.

It is unclear if a similar suspension has or will be enacted by Russia. On Sunday, a Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, welcomed a Washington-Moscow reset, saying the second Trump presidential administration was rapidly changing all foreign policy configurations. This largely aligns with our vision, Peskov said.

But speaking to CNN on Sunday about reopening links to Russia, the US national security adviser, Mike Waltz, denied reports of the cyber policy change. That has not been part of our discussions, Waltz said. There will be all kinds of carrots and sticks to get this war to an end.

A US defense official cited by NBC News declined to comment on the decision but said: There is no greater priority to Secretary Hegseth than the safety of the warfighter in all operations, to include the cyber domain.

The order does not apply to the US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (Cisa), which is part of the Department of Homeland Security and is responsible for protecting domestic US cyber infrastructure.

The agency reportedly said in a statement that its mission is to defend against all cyber threats to US Critical Infrastructure, including from Russia.

There has been no change in our posture, the Cisa statement said.

In February, the Pentagon ordered a review of US Cyber Command operations to be fast-tracked, the Record reported, in line with the Trump administrations belief that the US must become more confrontational in cyberspace in the wake of hacks and espionage campaigns by China.

In its reporting on Friday that the US no longer characterized Russia as a cybersecurity threat, the Guardian pointed to a speech delivered by Liesyl Franz, deputy assistant secretary for international cybersecurity at the state department, to a UN working group. Franz said the US was concerned by threats posed by some states but only named China and Iran  without mentioning Russia.

Meanwhile, Trump officials have been advocating for stepped-up military actions against Mexican cartel operations to stem the flow of fentanyl into the US  which could draw intelligence resources from Cyber Command.

On Saturday, officials said they were sending roughly an additional 3,000 active-duty troops to the US-Mexico border.

In a Truth Social post on Sunday, Trump expounded his belief that the US faces other more pressing topics than Russia.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country  So that we dont end up like Europe! Trump wrote.
Donald Trump and the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, meet at the White House on Friday. Photograph: Carol Guzy/Zuma Press Wire/Rex/Shutterstock

A US poll taken before the diplomatic meltdown in the Oval Office on Friday between Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, found that only 4% of surveyed Americans are backing Russia after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine  but a large minority of 44% said they do not support the invaded country either.

The CBS News/YouGov poll, conducted over three days beginning on 26 February, also found that a relatively slim majority  52%  said they personally support Ukraine.

Support for Russia was highest among Republicans  whose party is led by Trump  at 7%. A 56% majority of those Republican said they didnt have a preference between the two, and 37% supported Ukraine.

The polling found that  overall  11% believed Trumps actions and statements have favored Ukraine, and 46% said Russia.

Asked if they approved or disapproved of the way Trump was handling the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine, 51% approved and 49% said they didnt. The same percentages supported or opposed military aid to Ukraine.

The CBS polling also revealed that 30% consider Russia friendly but not an ally of the US  while 61% considered countries of western Europe, like the UK, France, Italy and Germany to be allies of the US.

But 35% said they considered western European nations to be friendly but not allies; 3% said unfriendly; and 1% said they considered them an enemy.

The most revealing aspect of the poll goes to the heart of the contentious Oval Office exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy, when the Ukrainian president attempted to persuade Trump and his cabinet that despite a nice ocean between the US and Europe, the US would in time feel influenced by Russias actions.

Trump retorted: You dont know that. You dont know that. Dont tell us what were going to feel. Were trying to solve a problem. Dont tell us what were going to feel.

A separate poll conducted using online interviews after the confrontation found that 49% of those polled said that Trump and Vice-President JD Vance had a stronger argument over the value of diplomacy with Russia.

The 2Way poll also found that 62% thought Zelenskyys remarks were offensive  and 55% said Ukraine needs to negotiate and end the war.

On Monday, the US president hit out at Zelenksyys comments that a deal to end the war is still very, very far away.

Trump posted that the comment was the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!  this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing.

That post from Trump came after a New York Times report on Monday that said the president had planned to meet with top aides to discuss suspending or canceling US military aid to Ukraine.

The CBS poll appeared to reflect a sense of insulation to the Russia-Ukraine war. Poll respondents were asked if what happens between Russia and Ukraine matters to the interests of the US. And 31% said it mattered a lot; 42% said some; 18% agreed with not much; and 9% not at all.

Senior Republicans not directly involved in Russia-Ukraine peace talk efforts have continued to denounce Putin  even as they express support for how Trump handled his meeting with Zelenskyy.

That included the House speaker, Mike Johnson, who told CNN on Sunday that Putin is not to be trusted and he is dangerous, adding that Russia and other countries like China are not on Americas side. Yet Johnson also said on NBC that someone other than Zelenskyy may need to lead Ukraine after failing to show gratitude over US aid.

The Oklahoma senator James Lankford told NBC that Putin was a murderous KGB thug and a dictator, saying Zelenskyy was rightfully concerned that Putin cant be trusted to respect a ceasefire agreement.

And regardless of political support for the US president, 76% said they thought Trump was making major changes to the Americas relationships with other countries. Of those, 31% said the relationships were better, 42% said worse, and 26% said it was too soon to say.

But there may be some optimistic signs for European countries hoping that the Nato will hold together through the current turmoil. Asked if the US should stay in the alliance or leave, 78% said it should remain  and 22% said it should leave.

But broader support for the current US foreign policy appears more mixed. Sixteen per cent said the US should take a leading role in the world; 67% said it should work equally alongside other allies; and 17% said it should not get involved in the worlds issues.
Starmer was joined by 19 international leaders in London to discuss an alternative peace proposal to Trumps plan for Ukraine - Javad Parsa/Shutterstock

Sir Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that the UK and France were assembling a coalition of the willing to enforce any peace deal for Ukraine.

The Prime Minister revealed a number of countries had agreed to join the initiative at a summit of 19 international leaders in London.

Together with Ukraine, the European alliance will devise an alternative peace plan to the one being cooked up by Donald Trumps administration in Washington before deploying a combined force to guarantee the settlement.

Sir Keir and Emmanuel Macron, Frances president, will work on the plan before presenting it to Mr Trump, who has already opened his negotiations with Russias Vladimir Putin.

European leaders have been scrambling to respond to those talks to ensure they have a seat at the negotiating table.

Partial one-month ceasefire

Late on Sunday, Mr Macron said France and Britain are proposing a partial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine that would cover air, sea and energy infrastructure attacks.

Under the Franco-British proposal, European ground troops would only be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase, Mr Macron said.

Whatever deal is hammered out, the White House expects Europe to take responsibility for Ukraines post-war security.

Britain and France, in principle, have agreed that they will have to carry the bulk of that burden to keep Mr Trump on Ukraines side.

What is the coalition of the willing?

The security guarantees offered to Kyiv will have to be sufficient to deter Putin from breaking any ceasefire arrangement.

British and French officials believe this starts with continuing to build up Ukraines armed forces to create an effective deterrence.

Boris Johnson, although not involved in the process, describes this as turning Ukraine into a steel-quilled porcupine, which Putin would think twice about taking a further bite from.

Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commissions president, used the same language, insisting Ukraine should be made indigestible to invaders.

Continuing to arm Kyiv is also seen as the best method for putting Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, in the strongest possible position ahead of any peace talks with Putin.

After a ceasefire is brokered, Ukrainian troops would be responsible for policing what could be an 800-mile-long buffer zone between them and territory occupied by Russian forces.

Behind the Ukrainians would sit a reassurance force made up of fewer than 30,000 troops committed by European countries and Canada.

They would mainly be responsible for protecting Ukrainian cities and critical infrastructure, such as nuclear power plants and ports, with air defence systems.

It would also be expected that a number of the boots on the ground in Ukraine would be committed to training Kyivs armed forces.

Aircraft, such as the F-35 or Eurofighter Typhoon, could be deployed on air policing missions, ready to shoot down any Russian aerial threats.

Naval vessels would be sent to the Black Sea to patrol the waters and prevent any Russian attempt to blockade Ukrainian exports and imports.

Whether they like it or not, European governments willing to join the coalition will be reliant on the US if the deployment is to become a reality.

First, the alliance would need logistical support from Washington to move the vast amount of servicemen and military hardware east towards Ukraine.

They would also want access to real-time intelligence provided by the US, including satellites, surveillance aircraft and other intelligence assets, to monitor threats on the front lines.

It is possible the coalition would also approach the US to plug an air defence capability gap by providing Patriot surface-to-air missile batteries, which are capable of shooting down Russian ballistic missiles.

Both the UK and France have said this deployment would only be possible with what the countries describe as a US backstop.

London and Paris want a promise that Washington would respond with lethal force, likely provided by aircraft and missiles stationed in Eastern Europe, should European troops come under attack by Russia or Kremlin-friendly proxy groups.

Mr Trump has remained hesitant at offering his backing for the deployment, claiming a backstop is not needed because he believes Putin would keep his word if he struck a peace deal in Ukraine.

The Kremlin has also opposed the deployment of European troops because it doesnt address the initial reasons [for the invasion], which Putin often claims was Nato enlargement.

There are other practical problems that come with a mass deployment of Western troops to Ukraine.

Military sources have previously raised concerns that Britain would not be able to play a leading role while honouring its other commitments to Estonia, Cyprus and national defence.

France and most European countries would be in a similar position after decades of under-investment in defence leaving their forces largely hollowed out.

Any Nato troops sent to Ukraine would also have to be backfilled in their current positions along the military alliances eastern flank, the area considered most vulnerable to a future Russian attack.

The UK is pressing for Mr Trump to consider redeploying some of the 100,000 American troops stationed in Europe further east.

But at the same time, Washington is actively considering slashing the number of personnel on the Continent, as it demands European leaders take more responsibility for their defences.

As well as winning US backing, European Nato officials have warned they will need to hold extensive negotiations within the alliance over any deployments.

Sources maintain that none of the countries involved will request the activation of Article 5, Natos mutual defence clause, if their troops come under attack inside Ukraine.

However, some, particularly Eastern European governments already wary of potential Russian aggression on their soil, insist that participation in the peacekeeping mission should not prevent them from invoking Article 5 if Moscow attacks the alliance.

Who is in, who is out of the coalition?

Britain and France will lead the coalition into Ukraine, but will not be able to do the heavy lifting alone.

They will need the support of dozens of other countries if they are to be able to generate a force capable of deterring a future invasion by Putin.

Sir Keir told reporters on Sunday night that a number of the leaders he hosted at Lancaster House had pledged their support for the scheme, without naming them.

Canadas Justin Trudeau left the door open to peacekeepers from his country being used to enforce the peace, saying: Everythings on the table. We know that the Canadian military has ways that it can contribute.

But these decisions will have to be left to a future government in Ottawa with Mr Trudeau standing down after almost a decade in power.

Denmark also has an open mind when it comes to sending peacekeepers to Ukraine, said Mette Frederiksen, its prime minister.

The likes of Sweden, the Netherlands and the Baltic states have previously mooted they would be prepared to join.

But as countries pledge their support, others have continued to put their foot down in opposition to troop deployments to Ukraine.

Germany was considered the largest hold-out after chancellor Olaf Scholz described talks over such a plan as completely premature, highly inappropriate and even that he was a little irritated after the first meeting on the subject.

Mr Scholz has since been defeated in a national election and is set to be replaced in Berlins hot seat by Friedrich Merz, who is expected to bring a new dynamism to the role in Germany and Europe.

Although there are no guarantees that Germany will overcome its traditional concerns of sparking a war with Russia after decades of cosy relations with the Kremlin.

Poland, one of Europes top military spenders, will also not be involved, with Donald Tusk, its prime minister, insisting its forces should be left in place to protect Natos eastern flank from a Russian attack.

He told fellow leaders in London that more European troops need to be stationed in countries bordering Russia.

Before flying to the UK, Mr Tusk said Europe had to achieve military and defence independence and start believing we are a global power.

Poland has ramped up its defence spending to 4.7 per cent of GDP this year.

Four days ago, Mr Tusk said Warsaw could provide logistical support to a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine but not troops.

Italys Giorgia Meloni has presented herself as an opponent to the peacekeeping mission in a number of behind-closed-doors meetings with European leaders.

At a virtual meeting of EU chiefs this week, the Italian prime minister accused Mr Macron of discussing the strategy with Mr Trump without a mandate from other leaders.

While not as critical, the likes of Spain and Portugal have also presented themselves as opponents to the scheme.

Hungarys Viktor Orban and Slovakias Robert Fico, the Kremlins closest allies in Europe, will also not have their troops involved for fears of provoking Russia.

The Hungarian premier has already written to the European Council president, urging the EU not to make any concrete decisions at a summit next week. Both leaders were not invited to London.

How long can Ukraine last without it?

Western officials estimate that of all the weapons and materials Ukraine uses to fight, 55 per cent is sourced domestically, 25 per cent from Europe, and just 20 per cent from the US. However, a small cut could be deadly.

Almost immediately after Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky had their very-public falling out during a meeting in the White Houses Oval Office on Friday, officials in Washington were claiming the US president could cut military aid to Ukraine.

Make a deal or we are out was the warning Mr Trump issued to Mr Zelensky that day.

The falling out of Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office. Will the US now cut military aid? - Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty

Since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has relied on the backing of Western nations to slow and repel the Russian advance.

In total, allies have allocated more than $250 billion (205 billion) of military, humanitarian and other financial aid to Ukraine, with the US the single biggest donor of military aid.

But after the clash, US officials are now warning that all of its aid to Ukraine could be cancelled imminently, including the final shipments of ammunition and equipment authorised and paid for during the Biden administration.

Before the spat, Gen Keith Kellogg, the presidents peace envoy, told The Telegraph that there was a pipeline in place that would guarantee weapon supplies to Ukraine for six months.

That process is there, then the discussion is going to be, what does it look like in six months from now? Because we believe there is a pretty good pipeline set up to come in here, he said after meeting Nato chiefs in Brussels.

The US has been the biggest source of military aid to Ukraine, allocating more than $67 billion (53 billion) between the start of 2022 and the end of 2024, according to the Kiel Institute, the German think tank.

The Pentagon has sent Ukraine more than 71 shipments from existing stockpiles worth $33.8 billion (27 billion), which included more than three million 155-millimetre artillery shells, tens of thousands of guided artillery rockets and anti-tank missiles, thousands of anti-aircraft missiles, thousands of armoured vehicles and dozens of tanks, The New York Times reported.

Ukraine has also leveraged US-supplied military systems  including Patriot air defence systems and Himars and Atacms long-range strike systems  which have allowed Kyiv to defend against nightly Russian drone and missile strikes.

The US has also provided $33.2 billion (26 billion) under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which provides funds that Kyiv can only use to buy new military hardware directly from US defence companies.

According to the Pentagon, an additional $3.85 billion (3 billion) of money authorised by the Biden administration remains unspent. It has also been more than 50 days since the US announced a new package of weapons to Ukraine.

The supply of weapons from the US to Ukraine is vital in keeping the war going - Mauricio Campino

Three years into Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Kremlin controls around a fifth of Ukraines internationally recognised territory, mainly in the south and east.

However, Ukraines defences on the eastern front are also mostly holding and Putins forces are only making small-scale advances.

Nonetheless, with Russias superior manpower and firepower, the cessation of US military assistance and monetary assistance risks tipping the balance of the war, according to an analysis by the Institute for the Study of War.

The US-based think tank warned on Saturday that ending US aid would give Russia greater advantages on the battlefield and increase the likelihood of a Putin victory.

It said that it has already observed a correlation between the magnitude of the Russian gains in Ukraine and delays or halts in Western military support.

It added that a suspension of ongoing US military assistance to Ukraine would also encourage Putin to continue to increase his demands and fuel his conviction that he can achieve total victory through war.

The loss of US assistance would be a major setback for Ukraine. US technologies are superior to those of the Europeans, and without US-led sanctions and export controls Russias defence industry could also boom.

In total, allies have allocated more than $250bn of military and other aid - Mauricio Campino

Outside of direct weapon donations, US negotiators have also threatened to switch off Elon Musks Starlink network, which is used to connect Ukrainian units via satellite Wi-Fi.

However, Ukraines manpower would not be affected because it does not rely on US troops, and it has also built up a domestic arms industry.

It produced more than 1.5 million drones in 2024, and has also started making home-developed Bohdana self-propelled howitzers and artillery ammunition.

Would the loss of US aid make the situation more difficult for Ukrainian forces? Yes, a former Ukrainian military officer wrote on social media.

Would it lead to total collapse in six months? No. It would mean more Ukrainian soldiers and civilians killed, especially as air defence stocks deplete, but on the battlefield, there would be no sudden collapse.

Most importantly, Ukraine still has allies beyond Washington  as seen by Sundays summit of European leaders.

Military analysts believe that Ukraine  backed by its European allies  will be able to keep fighting for many months.
Rhianan Rudd was found dead in a childrens home five months after the charges against her were dropped - Central News/Web Collect

A schoolgirl declared her love for the American neo-Nazi who radicalised her before being charged with terrorism offences, an inquest has heard.

Rhianan Rudd was 14 when she was charged after downloading a guide to make a pipe bomb. She had told school friends of her desire to blow up a synagogue and had become fixated with Adolf Hitler.

Rhianan, from Chesterfield in Derbyshire, was found dead in a childrens home in May 2022, five months after the charges against her were dropped.

An inquest into her death, at the age of 16, heard she exchanged messages with Christopher Cook, a teenage white supremacist, through communications platform Discord.

Cook, now aged 23, was subsequently convicted in the US of plotting attacks on the American power grid and sentenced to seven years in prison in 2023.

Emily Carter, Rhianans mother, maintains that authorities, including MI5, counter-terrorism police and social services, failed to treat her daughter as a victim of exploitation by extremists.

Rhianan Rudds mother, Emily Carter, says that the state failed her daughter

The inquest at Chesterfield Coroners Court heard how Rhianan began an online relationship with Cook in 2020.

Following the schoolgirls arrest in October 2020, social worker Paige McMahon recorded that the teenager had been significantly radicalised by men who had groomed Rhianan and influenced her extremist views.

She wrote: Rhianan ... is likely to suffer significant harm if things do not change.

Notes made by Ms McMahon of a meeting with Rhianan and her mother recorded: Emily said Rhianan stated she was speaking to someone online called Chris who was 17 and shared similar views to him.

They then discovered he was on a terror watch list. Rhianan found this funny and said she told her mother about this.

They told each other that they loved one another and that they had spoken a lot online, she added.

Mother asked police to help

The inquest heard that Ms Carter had asked police for help in September 2020, warning them that her daughter had developed an unhealthy outlook on fascism.

Rhianan was arrested the following month after carving a swastika into her forehead so others could see her beliefs, and charged under the terrorism act in December 2020.

Ms McMahon also recorded that Rhianans brother, Brandon, noticed a massive change in his sister after talking to Cook.

The inquest was also told how social services spoke with Ms Carter about her former partner Dax Mallaburn, a convicted American neo-Nazi who had been living at the family home in Bolsover, Derbyshire.

Mallaburn, who met Ms Carter through a prisoner pen-pal scheme while serving a jail sentence in the US, had a swastika tattooed on his arm.

Ms McMahons notes, made to consider whether Rhianan should be the subject of a child protection plan, read: Dax had nothing to do with Rhianan or her views. He would tell Rhianan no a lot.

Emily said Rhianan wouldnt listen. Emily said his particular views were from when he was in prison years ago. They are not the same anymore since he has been out.

Dax is the only one who can connect to Rhianan. If she starts doing stuff he will say no and she will stop.

Ms Carter told the social worker that Mallaburn did not support Rhianans views, adding: He did have a swastika tattooed on his arm but this was to do with politics in prison and he had changed a lot upon his release.

Emily Carter said her daughter was one of the kindest, most loving children she has ever known

Terrorism charges against Rhianan were dropped in December 2021 after the Home Office concluded the teenager had been a victim of exploitation.

By then, she had already been removed from school and placed at Bluebell House, a childrens home in Nottinghamshire, where she remained until her death.

A social worker described Rhianan as deeply scared about a potential prison sentence and fixated on the idea that she was going to jail.

The inquest was told that while at the home, Rhianan had self-harmed and expressed suicidal thoughts.

Earlier in the inquest, Ms Carter described her daughter as a kind and loving child who had been manipulated by extremists.

I saw Rhianan change, she said. This had a great impact on her and I did all I felt was right by her. Rhianan in total was one of the kindest, most loving children I had ever had the honour to know.

The inquest is hearing evidence from agencies including MI5, the Crown Prosecution Service, and the police.

Some material relating to MI5s involvement with Rhianan before she took her own life is being withheld on security grounds.

The inquest continues.
Dan Patrick in Austin, Texas, in July 2021. Photograph: Bob Daemmrich/ZUMA Press Wire/REX/Shutterstock

While Texas grapples with its worst measles outbreak in decades, its Republican lieutenant governor has moved for the states restaurants and groceries to change the name of the New York strip steak cut to the Texas strip in what he evidently hopes is a blow to liberals.

Dan Patrick announced on Friday on social media that he intended to go to Texass senate and work with lawmakers to pass a resolution favoring the switch  which would not carry the force of law but nonetheless would amount to a substantial statement of legislative support.

Patricks announcement made it a point to allude to the Gulf of Mexico, which Trump ordered to be renamed to the Gulf of America in an executive order early in his second US presidency.

And, perhaps anticipating reproval for his choice to focus at least some of his attention on renaming meat after a child in his state became the first person in the US to die from measles in a decade, Patricks statement said: In a world filled with serious issues that address every day at the Texas capitol, this simple resolution will help better market Texas beef.

Some users of the platform where Patrick touted his proposed Texas strip resolution were not deterred from verbally assailing him over it.

Glad to see youre focused on the crucial issues plaguing your constituents, one wrote sarcastically. Very important cause here and not at all ridiculous or a waste of time.

Another wrote that if Texas doesnt strive to reduce property taxes, many Texans will lose their own Texas strip of land.

Patricks proposal takes aim at the New York strip as labeled by the Delmonicos restaurant chain, which started in Manhattan in the 1800s and served the beef cut alongside mashed potatoes as its signature dish.

He said that he had recently met with Texass association of cattle feeders and cattle raisers  and he bristled when some of them told him their favorite cut of meat was the New York strip.

New York has mostly dairy cows, Patrick wrote in his announcement, which noted that Texas leads the US with 12.2m head of cattle. Just because a New York restaurant named Texas beef a New York strip in the 19th century doesnt mean we need to keep doing that.

Now, Patrick said, Texas would ask the states restaurants and grocery stores to change the name of this strip of meat the next time they reprint their menus.

We want this to catch on across the country and around the globe, said Patrick, who has been Texass lieutenant governor since 2015. Liberal New York shouldnt get the credit for our hard-working ranchers.

We promote the Texas brand on everything made or grown in Texas because it fits our economy and jobs.

Patricks announcement came on the same day that his states health officials reported measles cases in more than 145 people in Texas. Days earlier, a school-aged child who contracted measles died after not being given a vaccine providing immunization against the highly contagious but preventable disease.

The outbreak is Texass largest in about 30 years. And the childs death was the first fatality from measles in the US since 2015.

By Sunday, the situation in Texas had deteriorated to the point that Trump-appointed US health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr  who for years has sown doubt about vaccine safety and efficacy  published an opinion column on Republican-friendly Fox News that read: Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Texass measles epidemic is not the first contagious disease outbreak amid which Patrick has drawn political criticism from some. He managed to do the same in the spring of 2020 when he argued that lots of grandparents in the US would rather die than risk hurting the economy with activity restrictions meant to slow down the spread of the deadly Covid-19 pandemic.
Uyghur refugees on arrival at an airport in China last week. Thailand insists the deportation was voluntary. Photograph: Narong Sangnak/EPA

The family of one of dozens of Uyghurs feared to have been forcibly deported from Thailand to China have condemned the decision as shameful.



The deportations came despite a UN statement saying those being sent to China faced a real risk of torture on their return. Thailand said they had returned voluntarily to their normal lives with their families.

However, speaking to the Guardian, the family of one of those thought to have been deported said it was impossible that the men would want to be sent back to China.

The Uyghurs are a predominantly Muslim Turkic-speaking ethnic group, primarily from Chinas north-west region of Xinjiang.

The Chinese authorities blamed a number of violent attacks in Xinjiang and elsewhere in China on militant Islamist groups.

As a consequence, Uyghurs have been subject to religious and ethnic persecution by Chinese authorities, with human rights groups claiming that in recent years more than a million people have been held in detention camps.

Some governments have labelled the crackdown as genocide and the UN human rights commissioner found that serious human rights violations against Uyghur Muslims may amount to crimes against humanity. China denies the accusations.

Who wants their family to be sent back to a place like that, with no freedoms and where everything is monitored by the government? Its a lie.

Their families in China know what hardships they face, said Aisha* who fled the country in 2014.

There has been exodus of Uyghurs from Chinas Xinjiang region over the past decade, where China is accused of committing human rights abuses including torture and the incarceration of an estimated 1 million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities. China denies the accusations.

Aisha said she and her then husband left Korla, the second-largest city in Xinjiang after she was arrested and forced by police to remove her hijab and her then husband was banned from attending prayers at a mosque.

While Aisha, who was pregnant with their second child, and their son made it to Turkey, her then husband was arrested and has been detained in Thailand ever since.

We just wanted a peaceful life where we could raise our children and not be seen as a criminal, said Aisha, who shared one of the final exchanges of messages between her now 10-year-old daughter and her father, who she has never met.

Father, I am 10 years old now without you looking after me, she wrote. I promise to come and look after you, her father replies. OK, dont lie to me, father, she says. After he insists he will, she replies: Very well, dear father, I will wait for you. May Allah bring us together.

There is no way he or his family still living in China would have wanted him to return there. He just wanted to see his children again, said Aisha.

Since arrest, Aisha said she has had no information from either the Chinese, Thai or Turkish authorities about his fate. None of the people deported has yet been named, so she is still not certain if he has been sent back.

Its shameful for Thailand to send these people to China, even though the family and whole world knows it is an unsafe place for Uyghurs, she said.

Everything China has done has been staged. The world should be more careful because after they are deported there is no way back.

Related: Elderly Uyghur women imprisoned in China for decades-old religious crimes, leaked files reveal

In handwritten letters shared with the Guardian apparently from three other Uyghurs being held in Thailand, the detainees also pleaded not to be sent back to China.

They said they had been asked to sign a document consenting to be voluntarily repatriated but had refused to do so. Returning to China would mean imprisonment or death, one wrote.

Thailand said it had received reassurances from China that the deported Uyghurs would be cared for and not mistreated.

Chinas embassy in Thailand said those who had been repatriated were illegal border crossers not refugees.

It said those who had returned would be assisted with reintegration into their former lives as soon as possible and would be given employment support and vocational training. Vocational training is a term which has been associated with the Chinese authorities detention camps and forced labour transfer programmes.



*Name changed
Nigel Farage told LBCs Nick Ferrari that Ukraines president had been rude to Donald Trump. Photograph: Stefan Rousseau/PA

The Conservatives have compared Nigel Farage to Jeremy Corbyn after the Reform UK leader said Volodymyr Zelenskyy had been rude to Donald Trump, as well as criticising the Ukrainian president for not wearing a suit to the Oval Office.

The Liberal Democrats accused Farage of parroting White House talking points after Farage denied that Elon Musk and Steve Bannon had given Nazi salutes, saying their gestures were out to the side and not in front.

Speaking during a phone-in on LBC radio, Farage took issue with the sympathy showed to Zelenskyy after he was barracked by Trump and his vice-president, JD Vance, on Friday, with his Washington visit cut short.

I think president Zelenskyy was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didnt back him, Farage said. I think it was unwise. Sure, Vance and Trump bit back. But I think in diplomatic terms Zelenskyy played it very badly.

Asked if Trump and Vance had been right to treat Zelenskyy as they did, Farage replied: I wouldnt expect a guest to be rude to me in my own house, absolutely not. I would expect a guest to treat me with respect. Doesnt mean for a minute that Vance and Trump  Im not defending what they did.

Zelenskyy wore a black fatigue-style outfit in Washington, reflecting his role as leader of a nation at war after it was invaded by Russia. Farage said he sympathised with criticisms of this, with the US journalist Brian Glenn asking the Ukrainian president why he had not been in a suit. The outfit showed a lack of respect, Farage said.

You know what? If I turned up at the White House, Id make sure I was wearing a suit and that my shoes were clean, absolutely, Farage said.

Our prime minister was briefed and briefed and briefed as to how to deal with the visit to the White House. If Zelenskyy wants to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredibly old fashioned about this stuff  if you are going in with a positive mindset, maybe Zelenskyy should have thought about that.

Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, compared Farage to Corbyn, saying that, like the former Labour leader, he had a history [of] equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

A spokesperson for Corbyn said Patels words about him were misleading and that he had consistently opposed the Russian invasion.

Patel said: Nigel Farage is completely wrong. President Zelenskyy is a hero, who has stood up to Putins aggression, and led his countrys defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last three years  and it is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that.

For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelenskyy is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive. At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.

David Taylor, the Labour MP for Hemel Hempstead, said: Its telling that when the PM announced the essential uplift in defence spending, not a single member of Reform was there to ask a question.

Farage is not fit to comment on Zelenskyys actions. The former appears constantly absent while the latter has fought not just for Ukraines future, but for ours here in the UK.

After one caller asked Farage if he regretted speaking at last months Conservative Political Action Conference in Maryland given that another speaker, the former Trump aide Steve Bannon, made a fascist-style salute from the podium, Farage said he did not.

Bannon was, Farage argued, taking the mickey out of Elon Musk, a current Trump aide, who made two similar salutes at Trumps inauguration in January.

Are they Nazi salutes? I dont think they are for a moment, Farage said. Asked what they were, Farage called them very unwise. He added: Theyre not really Nazi salutes, because theyre out to the side and not in front  Do I think Musks a Nazi? No.

Ed Davey, the Lib Dem leader, said: Nigel Farage is once again showing his true colours as Trumps own spokesman here in Britain. Zelenskyy showed courage and integrity in that room  in stark contrast to Farages cowardly approach of licking Trumps boots.
Badenoch Jenrick

Critics of Brexit shrug with bewilderment that a kooky Tory hobby-horse somehow exploded into a national civil war.

A considerably different niche Tory obsession  namely erasing international human rights from English law  looks set to drag the country into a far darker existential crisis. Should the party open this particular Pandoras Box, its final demise seems infinitely more likely.

When Kemi Badenoch signalled her shift towards backing the UKs exit from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) in a speech last week, some on the Tory Right felt pangs of relief; finally, their new leader was showing some willingness to materially harden her immigration stance in the face of the Reform surge.

But other MPs claim they are ready to leave the party over the issue. Those on resignation watch are not all centre-tacking wets, but include a smattering of high-profile Brexiteers. Some insist that leaving the ECHR would be a very bad day for Britain and further relinquish our international role. Many are flabbergasted at Mrs Badenochs speech, claiming there was no need for such grandstanding.

As one MP who is considering leaving the party told me: Shes perfectly entitled to set the mood music that the ECHR doesnt always work for us. But there are ways of doing that short of declaring that youre leaving.

The idea of certain Brexiteers resigning the whip on the point of principle that Britain should remain a member of a European court may seem mind-blowing. But that is precisely what could happen, should Mrs Badenoch double down.

Its hard to see how an already diminished party could survive a rush of defections. The remaining rump would have little choice but to seek a pact with Reform. It would be the end of the Tory party as we know it.

The battle for Brexit and the crusade against the ECHR are fundamentally different beasts. Euroscepticism was a rebellion against a particularly remote vision of modern liberalism, based on technocratic rationalism.

The movement to leave the ECHR displays a quite different motive, namely that one should be willing to sacrifice freedom and dispense with liberalism altogether in order to keep order and resist excessive social change. Some conservatives might say that dispensing with human rights is simply the price that must be paid to stop the boats. For others, no political objective can be worth it.

Tory libertarians have misgivings about the claims of rights-sceptics. The idea that overweening foreign judges pose a threat to democracy has grown popular. Yet it is Parliament  and increasingly an executive blob of ministers, departments and state agencies  that is ultimately behind the proliferation of law that has seeped into every nook and cranny of our lives. Such executive power sometimes asserts itself with brute force  such as it did during lockdowns.

Rights-sceptics argue that European judges have expanded the definition of human rights beyond recognition, citing the invention of a right to family life. But the pandemic revealed the modern states willingness to invade this sacred realm, preventing people from mixing with  or even attending the funerals of  loved ones. It may not be so wise to forsake such a liberty.

The EU integration project is Continental in spirit, rooted in Gallic dreams of a Latin Empire that might match both the American and Russian power blocs. In contrast, the vision of a rights-based global order that underpins the ECHR was exported by Britain to Europe.

Winston Churchill was one of its leading advocates. The idea that people are born with natural basic rights that have a foundation independent of the laws of any particular society was invented by Englishman, John Locke.

A conception of freedom that tightly links it with the rule of law  rather than the arbitrary rule of men  is a peculiarly English idea and derives from centuries-long struggles against monarchical despotism.

Its bizarre that the Tory party has drifted towards a zero-sum choice between border control and human rights. If the objective is to pursue the Rwanda policy, its hard to see how leaving the ECHR gets the Right closer to that goal.

The Supreme Courts ruling that the Rwanda policy was unlawful, hinged on the principle of non-refoulement. This cornerstone of international law underpins the Refugee Convention.

Even if one believes that international human rights law has become an obstruction to the national interest, it does not follow that the UKs only choice is to disengage from it.

The ECHR has been changed more than a dozen times before. The UK has a track record in leading its reform. If other countries are also affected by European judges meddling in immigration cases, then it stands to reason that other member states will rally behind the UK.

It is a myth that the ECHR strictly requires unanimous support to change the way it works. A few years ago, when Russia was still a member and refused to ratify a treaty change, the court passed an interim procedure to bypass this blockage.

As Dr Stuart Wallace, an expert on the EU Convention at the University of Leeds told me: Theres absolutely nothing stopping a government from calling a meeting next week to speak with European allies and find common ground. Its feasible to arrange a conference and make changes to the convention. Its been done before.

Perhaps more importantly, legal eagles reckon that fudging reform of the much maligned Refugee Convention might involve fiddling with the definition of a refugee on the one hand, and a tightening of Article 31, which protects refugees who lack the proper paperwork, on the other.

As Dr Reuven Ziegler, an expert in refugee law pointed out to me: Theres a strong argument for opening up formal routes for seeking asylum in the UK, with applications being initially scrutinised before refugees set foot in Britain. To some extent that is what happened when we allowed Ukrainians to apply online. If that approach was generally adopted, it could open the way for rethinking legal questions such as the particular framing of Article 31.

That nobody is hashing out such a roadmap for reform  and the centre-Rights most influential think tank Policy Exchange is calling instead for the nuclear option  is testament to Toryisms brain dead state. Kemi Badenoch is keen to offer the country robust but credible solutions. It is hard to see how leaving the ECHR in a sulk serves this end.
From left to right: Louis Ahearne, Daniel Kelly and Stewart Ahearne - Met PoliceTelegraph Reporters

Three men snatched Ming dynasty antiques worth more than 2.7 million from a Swiss museum shortly before they allegedly plotted to murder a career criminal convicted of Britains largest cash robbery, a trial at the Old Bailey heard.

Former cage fighter Paul Allen, then 41, was paralysed for life after he was shot in the neck in the kitchen of his large detached rented home in Woodford Green, east London, on July 11 2019.

He had moved to the area after serving a prison sentence for his part in the 54 million Securitas raid in Kent in 2006.

Louis Ahearne, 36, his brother Stewart Ahearne, 46, and Daniel Kelly, 46, are accused of plotting to murder him with others unknown.

On Monday, jurors heard agreed facts about the defendants previous criminality relating to a burglary at the Museum of Far Eastern Arts, in Geneva. on June 1 2019  a month before Mr Allen was shot.

Three pieces of Ming-era porcelain were snatched from the museum with a combined insurance value of $3.58 million (2.8 million).

The items were an early 15th-century bottle with a secret pomegranate decoration, a small wine cup known as the chicken cup and a 14th-century An Huan phoenix design bowl.

According to the facts read out by the prosecution, Kelly and Louis Ahearne had flown into Geneva from London the day before the raid.

That afternoon, Louis Ahearn had carried out reconnaissance at the museum and made a video of Room 3 on his mobile phone. The next day, Stewart Ahearne joined the other two defendants and hired a Renault at the airport, jurors were told.

They went on to buy tools and clothes before carrying out the burglary at 11.21pm.

Jurors heard they arrived in the Renault equipped with masks, gloves, two forehead lamps, an angle-grinder, crowbar and sledgehammer.

They entered the building through a hole which they made by smashing two lower panels on the museums main door.

Police later identified DNA around the hole as belonging to Stewart Ahearne, the court was told.

The defendants headed to Room 3, which was referred to as the Ming Porcelain room, forced open display case 13 using the sledgehammer and crowbar and seized the three Ming dynasty antiques.

Afterwards, attempts were made to dispose of the stolen goods, jurors were told.

The defendants flew to Hong Kong two weeks later, on June 14, where they attempted to sell the phoenix bowl at an auction house.

On Oct 16 the following year, Stewart Ahearne was arrested with another man at a London hotel as they tried to sell the Ming vase to an undercover police officer.

A later search of a property revealed a passport in the name of Stewart Ahearne and a book on Ming Dynasty antiques, the court was told.

Previously, jurors have heard how two of the defendants were involved in another burglary in Kent the day before Mr Allen was shot.

A Renault Captur was hired by Stewart Ahearne from a dealership in Dartford and used by the other two defendants in a burglary on a gated community in Kent, the court has heard.

The prosecution has alleged the background to the shooting was that Mr Allen was a sophisticated career criminal.

He was convicted at Woolwich Crown Court for his part in Britains biggest armed robbery, at Securitas in Kent, in which 54 million in cash was stolen, much of which has never been recovered, the court has heard.

By 2019, Mr Allen had been released from prison and moved from south London to a large detached property in Woodford, north-east London, where he lived with his partner and young children.

The defendants had allegedly travelled from their home turf in the Woolwich area of south-east London, through the Blackwall Tunnel to the victims new home in Malvern Drive as part of the planning and execution of the conspiracy to murder him.

Louis Ahearne, from Greenwich, south-east London, and Stewart Ahearne and Kelly, both of no fixed address, have denied conspiring to murder Mr Allen between June 26 and July 12 2019.

The trial continues.
People protest against federal employee layoffs at Yosemite national park in California on Saturday. Photograph: Laure Andrillon/AFP/Getty Images

Donald Trump has ordered that swathes of Americas forests be felled for timber, evading rules to protect endangered species while doing so and raising the prospect of chainsaws razing some of the most ecologically important trees in the US.

The president, in an executive order, has demanded an expansion in tree cutting across 280m acres (113m hectares) of national forests and other public lands, claiming that heavy-handed federal policies have made America reliant on foreign imports of timber.

It is vital that we reverse these policies and increase domestic timber production to protect our national and economic security, the order adds.

Trump has instructed the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management to increase logging targets and for officials to circumvent the USs Endangered Species Act by using unspecified emergency powers to ignore protections placed upon vulnerable creatures habitats.

This move is similar to recent instructions by Trump to use a rarely-used committee to push through fossil fuel projects even if they imperil at-risk species. Experts have said this overriding of the Endangered Species Act is probably illegal.

The order also stipulates logging projects can be sped up if they are for purported wildfire risk reduction, via thinning of vegetation that could ignite. Some scientists have said that aggressively felling forests, particularly established, fire-resistant trees, actually increases the risk of fast-moving fires.

This Trump executive order is the most blatant attempt in American history by a president to hand over federal public lands to the logging industry, said Chad Hanson, wildfire scientist at the John Muir Project.

Whats worse, the executive order is built on a lie, as Trump falsely claims that more logging will curb wildfires and protect communities, while the overwhelming weight of evidence shows exactly the opposite.

Hanson said logging alters the microclimate of forests, creating hotter and drier conditions that helps wildfires, such as the events that recently ravaged Los Angeles, to spread faster.

Trumps exact approach, logging in remote forests and telling communities that it will stop fires, is responsible for numerous towns being destroyed by fires in recent years, and hundreds of lives lost, he said.

Environmental groups decried Trumps latest attempt to circumvent endangered species laws that shield about 400 species in national forests, including grizzly bears, spotted owls and wild salmon, and warned an increase in logging could pollute the water supply relied upon by millions of Americans.

Trumps order will unleash the chainsaws and bulldozers on our federal forests. Clearcutting these beautiful places will increase fire risk, drive species to extinction, pollute our rivers and streams, and destroy world-class recreation sites, said Randi Spivak public lands policy director for the Center for Biological Diversity.

This is a particularly horrific move by Trump to loot our public lands by handing the keys to big business.

The future of some of Americas most prized forests now appears uncertain. Under Joe Biden, the US committed to protecting the last fragments of old-growth forest, which contain some of the grandest and oldest trees on Earth. As trees soak up planet-heating carbon dioxide, protecting the oldest, most carbon-rich trees is seen as a way to help address the climate crisis. The former president also vowed to end deforestation by 2030.

However, the amount of logging in national forests surged under Biden amid a rush of tree felling ahead of expected restrictions on old-growth cutting. Biden, under pressure from Republicans and the timber industry, halted the old-growth protection plan in January and Trump officially killed off the executive order in his first day back in the White House.

Trumps shift towards a more industry-friendly stance has been underlined by his choice of a lumber executive lead the Forest Service, which has just fired 2,000 workers amid a purge led by Elon Musk, who has also been recently seen wielding a chainsaw.

Tom Schultz, previously a vice-president of Idaho Forest Group, which sells wood, will be the next Forest Service chief, overseeing the management of 154 national forests and 193m acres of land, an area roughly the size of Texas.

Working with our partners, we will actively manage national forests and grasslands, increase opportunities for outdoor recreation, and suppress wildfires with all available resources emphasizing safety and the importance of protecting resource values, Schultz said in a statement.

Green groups criticized the choice of Schultz. Naming a corporate lobbyist to run the agency tasked with overseeing the last old growth left in the US makes it clear that the Trump administrations goal isnt to preserve our national forests, but to sell them off to billionaires and corporate polluters, said Anna Medema, associate director of legislative and administrative advocacy for forests and public lands at the Sierra Club.

Schultz replaces Randy Moore, a soil scientist who was the first black person to lead the Forest Service. In a departing note to staff ahead of his retirement, Moore wrote that the recent loss of staff from the agency had been incredibly difficult.

If you are feeling uncertainty, frustration, or loss, you are not alone, Moore wrote. These are real and valid emotions that I am feeling, too. Please take care of yourselves and each other.
The rift between Washington and Kyiv over a potential ceasefire in the war with Russia deepened on Monday as Donald Trump was said to be considering cutting military aid to Ukraine and expressed new outrage at Volodymyr Zelenskyy for saying that the end of the war could be very, very far away.

In a post to social media on Monday, Trump posted a link to an Associated Press story outlining Zelenskyys comments and said: This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!

Related: Ukraine gambling with world war three, Trump tells Zelenskyy in fiery meeting

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US, Trump continued.

Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia, he said. What are they thinking?

Later on Monday, Trump said that Zelenskyy wont be around very

long unless he succumbs to pressure and makes deal on the USs terms.

It should not be that hard a deal to make. It could be made very fast, Trump told reporters, referring to a ceasefire. Now, maybe somebody doesnt want to make a deal, and if somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long.

The Trump administration was reported to be drawing up a plan on Monday to restore ties with Russia and lift sanctions on the Kremlin, in a sharp turn in US policy that would alarm European allies and service a broader rapprochement between Russia and the US.

The state and treasury departments were said to be tasked with drawing up a list of sanctions that the US could lift as part of the administrations broad talks with Moscow on improving diplomatic and economic relations, Reuters reported.

The Wall Street Journal reported on Monday that the Trump administration had stopped financing new weapons sales to Ukraine and was considering freezing weapons shipments from US stockpiles, in what would be a devastating blow to Ukraines ability to continue to defend against the Russian invasion.

Trump denied that he had discussed halting military aid to Ukraine, saying: I havent even talked about that right now. I mean, right now, well see what happens. A lot of things are happening right now, literally as we speak.

The flurry of activity followed a French proposal for a partial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine, as European efforts to bolster support for Kyiv accelerate in the face of uncertain US backing.

The French foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, said on Monday: Such a truce  on air, sea and energy infrastructure  would allow us to determine whether Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith and gauge his attitude to real peace negotiations.

A day after European leaders rallied around Ukraine at a summit in London, Barrot added: Never has the risk of a war in Europe, in the EU, been so high  The threat keeps getting closer to us, the frontline keeps getting closer to us.

Zelenskyy had said that he believed a peace with Russia was far off in an interview in which he also expressed optimism about Ukraines partnership with the US, saying: I think our relationship [with the US] will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship.

Those remarks followed a blow-up in the Oval Office where Trump accused Zelenskyy of gambling with a third world war and told the Ukrainian president to come back when he is ready for peace.

Keir Starmer and Frances Emmanuel Macron have sought to act as intermediaries between Zelenskyy and the White House as relations between Kyiv and the White House appear to be at the breaking point.

Trumps remarks came as he planned to convene top White House officials on Monday to discuss next steps, which included reviewing the European proposal but also potentially considering a cutoff in aid to Ukraine, according to reports in the New York Times and other US media. Those set to join the briefing include the national security adviser, Michael Waltz, the secretary of state, Marco Rubio, and the secretary of defence, Pete Hegseth.

Trump allies continued to pile pressure on Zelenskyy over the weekend, with several suggesting the Ukrainian president should consider resigning in order to provide a way forward for negotiations. Rubio and Waltz were considered to be the most hawkish of Trumps cabinet on Russia, but have fallen in line with his and JD Vances criticisms of Ukraine as tensions have escalated.

Speaking to Fox on Monday morning, Waltz did not say Zelenskyy should resign, but when asked whether Zelenskyy was fit to lead Ukraine said: What happened Friday really put that up in the air. Earlier, he told CNN: We need a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end this war  If it becomes apparent that President Zelenskys either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in his country, then I think we have a real issue on our hands.

Germany has taken the lead in questioning the US leadership under the new Trump administration. Friedrich Merz, who is likely to be Germanys next chancellor, suggested the Oval Office spat was a trap set in advance for the Ukrainian leader. It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelenskyy, but obviously a manufactured escalation, Merz said.

Merz had earlier said that it appeared the Trump administration was indifferent to the fate of Europe. My absolute priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that, step by step, we can really achieve independence from the USA, he said in remarks last week as tensions rose between the US and Europe over a potential ceasefire negotiation with Russia.

Frances prime minister, Francois Bayrou, also criticised Trumps behaviour, telling parliament: In the Oval Office  a staggering scene unfurled before the lenses of the entire world, marked by brutality, a desire to humiliate, with the goal of making Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy fold through threats. President Zelenskyy did not fold and I think we can show him our appreciation.

A senior European official who asked to remain anonymous said Trump now had to choose whether he wanted to call himself a leader of the free world, or leader of an extortion gang. The latter is not interesting for Europe.
The rift between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky appeared to deepen on Monday - Andrew Harnik

Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting the Ukrainian president wont be around very long if he does not end the war soon.

The rift between the leaders appeared to deepen as he said a peace deal should not be that hard a deal to make.

He added: If somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long. That person will not be listened to very long. Because I believe that Russia wants to make a deal.

Mr Trump had earlier condemned Mr Zelensky for saying that a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia is still very, very far away.

The US president said Mr Zelenskys remarks were the worst statement that could have been made, adding on social media: America will not put up with it for much longer!

Pivotal week ahead

The US wants Mr Zelensky to offer an immediate ceasefire and hardliners in the Trump administration, including Elon Musk, blame the Ukrainian leader for prolonging the war.

Members of Mr Trumps administration briefed on Monday that the Ukrainian president must publicly apologise for his part in last weeks Oval Office shouting match and declare that he wants peace before he can resume talks with Mr Trump.

Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky during the White House row on Friday - SAUL LOEB

European leaders also instructed Mr Zelensky to make up with Mr Trump during a UK-hosted summit at the weekend, it emerged.

Mr Trumps latest attack on Mr Zelensky came at the start of what could be a pivotal week.

European leaders are frantically drawing up plans for peace to be signed off at an EU summit on Thursday, meanwhile Arab leaders are also set to present to Mr Trump a proposal for the future of Gaza.

Trump considering military aid cull

The Trump administration has reportedly stopped financing new weapons sales to Ukraine and is considering freezing weapon shipments.

In a move that threatens the Kyivs ability to fight in the crucial Spring months, Mr Trumps top team is weighing shutting down the main pipeline for arms transfers to Volodymyr Zelensky.

The financing was halted as part of the administrations freeze on foreign aid last month, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Key figures of Mr Trumps administration are also considering curtailing intelligence sharing and training for Ukrainian troops and pilots, according to the Washington Post.

However, Mr Trump denied that he was currently considering cutting military aid, I havent even talked about that right now, he said.

Meanwhile the White House is signalling closer relations with Vladimir Putin and on Monday Mr Trump ordered treasury officials to draft a list of sanctions that could be eased on Russia.

A rally in front of the US embassy in Warsaw on March 3 - WOJTEK RADWANSKI

Mr Trumps cabinet is understood to be split on how to handle Mr Zelensky following Fridays fallout in the oval office.

Some are pushing for Mr Zelensky to resign after a peace deal is reached, a key Russian request.

The Institute for the Study of War, an influential US think tank, warned on Monday that the Kremlin will likely intensify its war effort and exploit any delay or cessation of US military assistance to Ukraine.

Fractures in coalition of the willing

In Europe cracks began to show on Monday in Sir Keir Starmers coalition of the willing, which is working on a plan for a prolonged ceasefire and European security guarantees in exchange for peace.

Italy partially rejected Emmanuel Macrons proposal for a one-month truce in Ukraine, saying that the plans were premature.

I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and especially a long-lasting peace, Antonio Tajani, Italys foreign minister, said on Monday.

Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it, he added.

Sir Keir suggested he would not send British troops into Ukraine without first having secured vital security guarantees from the US.

Keir Starmer before addressing the House of Commons on Monday - Dan Kitwood

In a debate in the Commons, the Prime Minister said there would be a vote in Parliament before any sustained deployment of troops.

He was told by Tory MP Andrew Murrisson, a former defence minister, that the armed forces always stand ready to do their duty.

He added: Would the Prime Minister agree with me that it would be utter folly if the United Kingdom or France or Norway or Canada sent their sons and daughters into harms way without all necessary security guarantees from the United States?

Sir Keir replied: I do agree with him and thats why Im working so hard on security guarantees that are worthy of the name; that is a forward-leaving European element with US backing which is vital if its to act as a guarantee, and of course thats uppermost in my mind.

The Ukrainian president was unanimously told to patch up relations with his US counterpart at a weekend summit hosted by Sir Keir, The Telegraph can reveal.

That was pretty much unanimously shared by all of the leaders there, an official briefed on the talks told the paper.

We cant do this without the US.

After urging Ukraines war-time leader to apologise to Mr Trump, European leaders discussed how they can keep the US president on side by boosting their own defence spending.

Leaders agreed that ramping up military expenditure was the key to peace through strength for Ukraine, as well as to provide a credible proposition to the US, in order to keep them onside, the official added.

That undoubtedly would have to include security guarantees as well.

Increase in EU defence spending

On Tuesday, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commissions president, will set out plans being devised in Brussels to increase EU defence spending.

Her proposals will be discussed at a special summit of European Union leaders, and Mr Zelensky, in the Belgian capital on Thursday, along with a potential peace deal.

An EU official said: There was general agreement on the need for European countries to increase defence spending and military capabilities. This was considered by many to be an important contribution to strengthening the transatlantic relation.

European leaders also agreed that any ceasefire to stop fighting between Russia and Ukraine would need Mr Trumps input.

There was broad convergence on the importance of continuing to work closely with the US, namely in the context of Nato, to ensure that any ceasefire will be a step towards a just and lasting peace.

The official said there was wide support for Mr Trumps mantra of peace through strength, which European leaders agreed should start with increased military support to Ukraine as the main component of post-war security guarantees.

Starmer was joined by 19 international leaders in London to discuss an alternative peace proposal to Trumps plan for Ukraine - JAVAD PARSA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The first layer of those security guarantees will be Ukraines armed forces, who therefore must continue to be supported, the official said.

European contributions to additional security guarantees must be developed hand in hand with the US, they added.

Meanwhile, the UK Government appeared to distance itself from Lord Mandelson, the UK ambassador to the US, after he suggested Europe should give unequivocal backing to the initiative Mr Trump is taking.

Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, slapped down the comments, saying it was not government policy.

Lord Mandelson has embarked on a charm offence since arriving in Washington after previous comments suggesting Mr Trump a danger to the world outraged key figures inside the administration.

Along with proposals on a Ukrainian ceasefire, Mr Trump will also likely be examining a plan for Gaza this week.

Arab countries are reportedly nearing agreement on an alternative plan for Gaza to proposals laid out by the US.

The scheme would reportedly sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by both Arab, Muslim and Western states.

Reuters reported that the Egyptian-led vision for Gaza will be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday.

Hamas has previously rejected any idea of a future for the enclave being imposed on Palestinians by outside states.

On Monday, Israel said Hamas had enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic for its fighters.

08:30 PM GMT

Thats all for now

Thanks for following our coverage. This live blog is now closed. Highlights from today include:

Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on Volodymyr Zelensky for suggesting the end of the war in Ukraine is very far away

Mr Trump suggested the Ukrainian president wont be around very long if he does not bring the war to end soon

Sir Keir Starmer said Britain would play a leading role in securing peace in Ukraine

Mr Trump said he had not had talks on whether to withdraw military aid from Kyiv as peace talks stall

Mr Zelensky said he is counting on US support on the path to peace while the US refuses to give concrete security guarantees

08:06 PM GMT

Trump hasnt talked about withdrawing Ukraine aid

Donald Trump is asked whether he is planning to cut off military aid to Ukraine. I havent even talked about that right now, the US President says.

08:04 PM GMT

Ukraine wants to make a deal

Ukraine wants to make a deal to end the war, Donald Trump has said, after claiming that Volodymyr Zelensky was ungrateful for US support.

It should not be that hard a deal to make. It can be made very fast. Now maybe somebody doesnt want to make a deal, then if somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long, the US President told reporters.

Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the Roosevelt Room - REUTERS/Leah Millis

That person will not be listened to very long. Because I believe that Russia wants to make a deal.

I believe certainly the people of Ukraine want to make a deal. Theyre suffered more than anybody else.

At another point, Mr Trump referenced a quote attributed to Mr Zelensky from the Associated Press: He thinks the wars going to go on for a long time and he better not be right about that - thats all Im saying.



08:01 PM GMT

Zelensky should be more appreciative

Volodymyr Zelensky needs to be more appreciative for US military support, Donald Trump has said.

The US President, asked by a reporter about how Mr Zelensky could restart negotiations over a rare earths deal, said: I think he should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin.

07:19 PM GMT

US drawing up plan to lift sanctions on Russia, say sources

The United States is drawing up a plan to potentially give Russia sanctions relief, according to sources.

The White House has asked the State and Treasury departments to draft a list of sanctions that could be eased for US officials to discuss with Russian representatives in the coming days, a US official and another person familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The sanctions relief will include some Russian oligarchs, the sources said.

The efforts are part of the Trump administrations attempts to improve diplomatic and economic relations with Moscow and bring an end to the war in Ukraine.

07:02 PM GMT

Starmer: British jobs, skills and finance will help bring peace in Ukraine

During his early address in the Commons, Sir Keir Stramer said that: British jobs, British skills, and British finance will help secure peace in Ukraine.

The Prime Minister unveiled a partnership with Ukraine that will allow them to use 1.6 billion of UK Export Finance to buy 5,000 air defence missiles manufactured in Belfast.

That means British jobs, British skills, and British finance will pull together for our national interest, putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace.

Economic security is national security.



British jobs, British skills, and British finance will pull together for our national interest and put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace. pic.twitter.com/0VaZSYfcYm  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) March 3, 2025

06:48 PM GMT

Zelensky says he is counting on US support on path to peace

Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that he was hoping for US support on the path to peace, as Donald Trump again criticised his position on a ceasefire.

It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war as soon as possible, Mr Zelensky said in a statement.

We are working together with America and our European partners and very much hope on US support on the path to peace. Peace is needed as soon as possible.

Earlier, Mr Trump had accused the Ukrainian leader of making the worst statement after he said a peace deal was very far away. America will not put up with it for much longer! he added in a series of furious remarks.

06:37 PM GMT

Lib Dems: Trumps comments show UK can no longer rely on US

Calum Miller, the foreign affairs spokesman for the Liberal Democrats, said Donald Trumps comments show the UK can no longer rely on the US under his presidency.

He said: Trumps words confirm what we already know: that he would rather side with tyrants like Putin than support President Zelensky and the Ukrainian peoples brave defence of their country.

As we can no longer rely on America under Trump, the UK and Europe need to step up - to support Ukraines defence against Putins barbarism and to bolster our collective security.

Keir Starmer needs to build on the momentum from his weekend of shuttle diplomacy. He must go further and faster to seize the billions of frozen Russian assets which could be used to support Ukraine immediately, and work with our European partners to develop a new rearmament bank to help finance enhanced continental security.

06:26 PM GMT

Mandelsons call for Zelensky to make up with Trump not government policy

Lord Mandelsons calls for Volodymyr Zelensky to make up with Donald Trump and support his peace plan are not government policy, a minister has said.

In an interview over the weekend, Britains ambassador to the US said the Ukrainian president should give his unconditional backing to US proposals to end the three-year conflict.

But Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, distanced Downing Street from the suggestion and said that position was not the view of Sir Keir Starmers Government.

The comments follow a meeting between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky on Friday that descended into acrimony as the US president accused his counterpart of risking World War Three.

Read the full article here.

Credit: ABC's This Week by George Stephanopoulos

06:08 PM GMT

EU trying to help Ukraine replace Musks Starlink

The European Commission is working out how it could help Ukraine secure alternative satellite communications amid concerns that Elon Musk will pull Kyivs access to his Starlink network.

Starlink plays a vital role in Ukraines battlefield communications, with 42,000 terminals providing space-based internet services to the military, medical facilities, businesses and aid workers.

Thomas Regnier, an Commission spokesman, said Kyiv had already expressed interest in how it could use the EUs Govsatcom network and IRIS, a new constellation expected to be operational in the 2030s.

The Commission will pursue its contacts with Ukraine in that regard, said Mr Regnier, according to Politico.

06:00 PM GMT

Tories accuse Farage of being as pro-Russia as Corbyn

The Tories have accused Nigel Farage of being as pro-Russia as Jeremy Corbyn.

The Reform UK leader said on Monday morning that Volodymyr Zelensky had been rude to Donald Trump in the Oval Office, and suggested he should have worn a suit.

Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said it was morally wrong for Mr Farage to criticise the Ukrainian president - and compared him to the former Left-wing Labour leader.

She tweeted: Like Jeremy Corbyn, the Leader of Reform UK seems to have history equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

Both Mr Farage and Mr Corbyn have been accused of being too close to Mr Putin.

While he was leader, Mr Corbyns spokesman questioned whether Russia was to blame for the Salisbury attack and suggested sending samples to Moscow so their labs could check them.

During a phone-in on LBC Radio, Mr Farage said: I think President Zelenskyy was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didnt back him...But I think in diplomatic terms Zelenskyy played it very badly.

Ms Patel said: Nigel Farage is completely wrong. President Zelenskyy is a hero, who has stood up to Putins aggression, and led his countrys defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last 3 years - and it is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that.

For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelenskyy is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive. At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.

05:50 PM GMT

French PM: Trump tried to humiliate Zelensky with staggering brutality

Frances prime minister tore into Donald Trump for his Oval Office row with Volodymyr Zelensky, calling it a staggering show of brutality that aimed to humiliate Ukraines leader.

In extraordinarily frank criticism of the US president, Francois Bayrou said on Monday: On Friday night, in the Oval Office of the White House, a staggering scene unfurled before the lenses of the entire world, marked by brutality, a desire to humiliate, with the goal of making Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fold through threats.

Speaking at parliamentary debate on Ukraine, he added: President Zelenskyy did not fold and I think we can show him our appreciation.

Lawmakers got to their feet in the National Assembly chamber to applaud.

Francois Bayrou, Frances prime minister, criticised Donald Trumps brutal row with Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday - REUTERS

05:32 PM GMT

Italy shoots down Macrons Ukraine truce plan

Italy has partially rejected Emmanuel Macrons proposal for a one-month truce in Ukraine, saying that the plans were premature.

I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and especially a long-lasting peace, Antonio Tajani, Italys foreign minister, said on Monday.

Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it, he added.

Following an emergency peace summit in London on Sunday, Mr Macron revealed he intended to propose a one-month ceasefire in Ukraine in the air, at sea, and that European soldiers would only be deployed as part of a second phase of a potential truce.

On Sunday, Giorgia Meloni said that the UK and France had supplied strong ideas about a Ukraine peace plan, but repeated her concerns about sending any European troops to Ukraine.

France, Britain and other European countries have offered to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, but say they would need support from the US as a backstop.

Addressing the Commons on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer said Washington remained vital to any European efforts to secure peace in Ukraine. The UK will never choose between either side of the Atlantic.

Giorgia Meloni attends an emergency summit to discuss peace in Ukraine in London on Sunday - Getty Images Europe

05:14 PM GMT

Watch: Starmer unveils four-point peace plan for Ukraine

05:04 PM GMT

Trump condemns Zelensky for saying peace deal is very far away

Donald Trump has furiously condemned Volodymyr Zelensky for saying that a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia is still very far away.

Writing on Truth Social, the US president said: This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.

Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking? Mr Trump added.

Earlier on Monday, Mr Zelensky had said that a deal to end the three-year conflict is still very, very far away and added that he expects to keep receiving American support despite his ongoing spat with Mr Trump.

04:44 PM GMT

Trump will not withdraw military support for Ukraine, says Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer said he does not believe Washington will withdraw military support for Ukraine.

Asked about todays reports that Donald Trump was considering the option, Keir Starmer responded: As I understand, that is not their position.

04:22 PM GMT

Starmer: We should all support Zelensky and not fawn over Putin

Sir Keir made clear to MPs that Russia is the aggressor and Volodymyr Zelensky has done nothing wrong.

Answering questions from MPs, he said: Russia is the aggressor. Zelensky is a war leader whose country has been invaded, and we should all be supporting him and not fawning over Putin.

It comes after Donald Trump and his allies have in recent weeks refused to brand Vladimir Putin the aggressor in the war and have instead suggested Mr Zelensky was to blame for the three-year conflict.

04:04 PM GMT

Badenoch: What is being done to repair Washington rift?

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative party leader, said she supported Keir Starmers efforts this weekend in organising an emergency summit on Ukraine.

She questioned what was being done to repair the apparent rift between Washington and Europe over support for Ukraine.

Responding, Sir Keir repeated that the UK will lead a coalition of the willing, but admitted that not every country takes the same view.

Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch speaking in the Commons

03:59 PM GMT

Zelensky was taken aback by UK public support

Sir Keir Starmer said Volodymyr Zelensky was taken aback by the crowd of people who cheered for him as he entered Downing Street on the weekend.

He called it a clear reminder that the British government and the public stand in unwavering support behind him and the people of Ukraine here.

03:55 PM GMT

Britain will play leading role in securing peace

Britain will play a leading role in securing peace in Ukraine with boots on the ground and planes in the air, Sir Keir said, telling MPs that the UK must lead from the front.

Following his emergency summit on Sunday, the Prime Minister said Europe was forming a coalition of the willing to defend a future ceasefire in Ukraine.

Europe must do the heavy lifting to secure peace on our continent, he said, before adding that for this to succeed, it must has strong US backing.

Sir Keir said that he does not take these decisions lightly.

03:43 PM GMT

Future of Ukraine is vital for our national security, says Starmer

The future of Ukraine vital for our national security, Keir Starmer said in his address to the Commons.

Russia is a menace in our waters and our skies, he added. Britain will lead from the front for the security of our continent, our country.

Keir Starmer speaks in the Commons

03:37 PM GMT

Starmer: We will not choose between sides of Atlantic

Sir Keir told the Commons: We must strengthen our relationship with Americathe United States are and always will be indispensable.

He added: And we will never choose between either side of the Atlantic.

The Prime Minister said the past week have shown with total clarity that the US is vital in securing peace in Ukraine.

03:34 PM GMT

The test of our times, the crossroads of our history

Sir Keir Starmer has started addressing MPs, declaring that the UK is facing the test of our times, the crossroads of our history.

03:31 PM GMT

Trump to discuss withdrawing military aid to Ukraine

Donald Trump is expected to discuss cancelling military aid to Ukraine when he meets with key advisors later today.

The president will speak with senior advisers, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, to consider a range of options, including cancelling aid that was approved and paid for by the Biden administration, the New York Times reported.

The meeting will follow a public row between Mr Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, at the Oval Office on Friday.

The White House is reportedly split on how to handle Ukraine following the row, with some advisers taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country, Bloomberg UK reported. Some expect Mr Zelensky to resign after a peace deal is reached, a key Russian request.

Mr Trump has reportedly told Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron that he wants to see Europes plan on how to stop the fighting in Ukraine.

He also expects an apology from Mr Zelensky, as well as a declaration that he wants peace, before he is allowed to return to the White House to sign a minerals deal.

03:09 PM GMT

Ukraine investigates negligence after Russian strike on military camp

Ukraine acknowledged that a Russian missile strike on a military training ground at the weekend had inflicted deaths and injuries and said a criminal investigation was underway into possible negligence.

Russias defence ministry shared a video of what it described as an Iskander-M ballistic missile strike on a camp in Dnipropetrovsk region on Saturday, saying it inflicted heavy casualties.

Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraines army chief, said that Russia had struck with cluster munitions, but did not disclose casualty details.

Ukraines State Bureau of Investigations said it had opened a criminal investigation into possible negligence over the attack.

03:00 PM GMT

Your views...

02:51 PM GMT

Starmer to address MPs after Ukraine summit

Sir Keir Starmer is to address the House of Commons at around 3.30pm to update MPs on Ukraine.

The Prime Minister convened European leaders at Lancaster House yesterday to discuss how the conflict can be brought to an end following the public fallout between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sir Keir is expected to take questions after his remarks, which Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, is set to respond to.

02:39 PM GMT

Russian advance slows for third month in a row

Russias advances throughout Ukraine for a third month in a row on February, according to new analysis.

Moscow advanced by 389 square kilometres (150 square miles) in February, after advances of 431 square kilometres in January, 476 square kilometres in December 2024 and a peak of 725 square kilometres in November, AFP reported.

It follows claims from the Ukrainian military that it has slowed Moscows advances in the most threatening areas.

Our side has taken a number of measures to improve the interaction of military units and subdivisions, regrouped troops, which slowed down... (Russias) advance in most threatening areas, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said last week.

Russian soldiers ride atop an Akatsyia self-propelled gun in eastern Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry Press Service

02:19 PM GMT

Farage acting as Trump spokesman, say Lib Dems

The Liberal Democrats have accused Nigel Farage of acting as Trumps own spokesman in Britain after the Reform leader criticised Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sir Ed Davey, the Lib Dem leader, was responding to remarks made by Mr Farage in which he claimed the Ukrainian president overplayed his hand when meeting Donald Trump.

Sir Ed said: Nigel Farage is once again showing his true colours as Trumps own spokesman here in Britain.

Zelensky showed courage and integrity in that room  in stark contrast to Farages cowardly approach of licking Trumps boots. Farage is more focused on promoting Trump and Musks interests in the UK than British interests in the States.

He was once again parroting White House talking points this morning, to the dismay of British people here at home. Its clearer than ever that Nigel Farage is simply out for himself and his Mar-a-Lago cronies.

02:01 PM GMT

Pictured: Ukraine fires howitzer at Russian positions

Ukrainian servicemen firing a M109 155mm self-propelled howitzer towards Russian positions - AFP

01:44 PM GMT

Musk backs calls for US to leave Nato

Elon Musk has backed calls for the US to leave Nato, a move that would strike a significant blow to hopes of an American security guarantee for Ukraine.

Mr Musk, a close ally of Donald Trump who is running the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), signalled his support for American withdrawal on his social media site X.

Mike Lee, a prominent Republican senator, responded to yesterdays Lancaster House summit by writing: Obviously our European allies dont need us. Lets leave Nato. We dont fit in there.

In response, Mr Musk said: Yes.

The tech billionaire has also pinned a post to his profile in which he said: What I said over two years ago was that Ukraine should seek peace or suffer severe loss of life for no gains.

The latter was Zelenskys choice. Now he wants to do that again. This is cruel and inhumane.

Obviously our European allies don't need us



Let's leave NATO



We don't fit in there https://t.co/112IBoPCT5  Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) March 3, 2025

01:28 PM GMT

Trump: Im the only president who didnt give away Ukrainian land

Donald Trump has claimed he is the only US president that has not given any Ukrainian land to Russia.

The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is President Donald J. Trump. Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticise, and the Fake News gladly puts out anything they say! he wrote in a Truth Social post this morning.

The US president is presumably referring to Russias invasion of Crimea in 2014, which was followed by a full annexation.

Barack Obama, US president at the time, was widely criticised for failing to arm Ukraine in response, though he did not give away Ukrainian land.

01:04 PM GMT

Intense work under way to secure peace in Ukraine, says No10

Sir Keir Starmer is continuing with intense work aimed at securing a lasting peace in Ukraine, his official spokesman said.

The spokesman told reporters: You heard obviously from the Prime Minister yesterday and indeed over the weekend and summit yesterday, agreed some important steps forward and the Prime Minister outlined a four-step plan there

There is intense work taking place to take forward that work. I think as the PM also said yesterday, we also want to keep up this momentum. The summit yesterday [led to] an important set of conclusions.

Theres going to be various options on the table which are now subject to further discussion with both the US and European partners.

12:48 PM GMT

Trump-Zelensky row a manufactured escalation, says Merz

A clash between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House was a manufactured escalation, Germanys next chancellor Friedrich Merz has said.

It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but obviously a manufactured escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office, Mr Merz told a news conference in Hamburg.

Mr Merz, who is seeking to form a coalition after his conservatives won a snap election last month, said that Europe was now under pressure to act quickly.

We must now show that we are in a position to act independently in Europe, he said.

Friedrich Merz is likely to be Germanys next chancellor - AFP

12:39 PM GMT

UK and France seek Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine

The UK and France are pushing for a Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Canada and Turkey are involved in discussions about joining Sir Keir Starmers so-called coalition of the willing, which could see soldiers being sent to Ukraine to enforce a deal.

The plan is the UK and Frances response to a series of private requests made by Donald Trump following his public row with Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, Bloomberg reports.

The US president wants Mr Zelensky to apologise and declare that he wants peace before returning to the White House to sign a minerals agreement.

Mr Trump is also unwilling to commit to backing European troops who are sent to Ukraine until Europe produces a plan to stop the fighting.

On Sunday, Emmanuel Macron suggested Britain and France had drawn up a plan for a one-month truce in Ukraine in the air, at sea. However, the UK Government said this morning no agreement had been reached.

12:34 PM GMT

Tories liken Farage to Corbyn over Ukraine

The Conservatives have likened Nigel Farage to Jeremy Corbyn after the Reform leader criticised Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr Farage said during an LBC phone-in this morning that Mr Zelensky overplayed his hand during his ill-fated meeting with Donald Trump and JD Vance in the Oval Office last week.

He also argued the Ukrainian president should have shown more respect to Mr Trump, going on to claim he should have worn a suit to the White House.

Responding to his comments, Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said: Nigel Farage is completely wrong. President Zelensky is a hero, who has stood up to Putins aggression, and led his countrys defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last 3 years  and it is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that.



For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelenskiy is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive. At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.



But sadly, it is not surprising. Like Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Reform UK seems to have history equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

12:04 PM GMT

Who is in Starmers coalition of the willing and what can it do?

Sir Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that the UK and France were assembling a coalition of the willing to enforce any peace deal for Ukraine.

The Prime Minister revealed a number of countries had agreed to join the initiative at a summit of 19 international leaders in London.

Together with Ukraine, the European alliance will devise an alternative peace plan to the one being cooked up by Donald Trumps administration in Washington before deploying a combined force to guarantee the settlement.

Sir Keir and Emmanuel Macron, Frances president, will work on the plan before presenting it to Mr Trump, who has already opened his negotiations with Russias Vladimir Putin.

European leaders have been scrambling to respond to those talks to ensure they have a seat at the negotiating table.

11:45 AM GMT

Trump to discuss cancelling military aid to Ukraine

Donald Trump is expected to discuss cancelling military aid to Ukraine when he meets with key advisors later today.

The president will meet with senior advisers, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, to consider a range of options, including cancelling aid that was approved and paid for by the Biden administration, the New York Times reported.

The meeting will follow a public row between Mr Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, at the Oval Office on Friday.

The White House is reportedly split on how to handle Ukraine following the row, with some advisers taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country, Bloomberg UK reported.

11:20 AM GMT

Trump-Putin summit being fast-tracked

A plan for Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to host a joint summit is being fast-tracked after the US presidents public row with Volodymyr Zelensky, according to CNN.

A meeting between the two presidents is set to take place in one of the Persian Gulf countries, most likely Saudi Arabia, where US and Russian officials met for talks last month.

11:12 AM GMT

King Charles meets Justin Trudeau at Sandringham

The King has held an audience with Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, in the Saloon room of Sandringham House.

The meeting came less than 24 hours after the King met with Volodymyr Zelensky in the same room for talks following his showdown with Donald Trump in the White House.

It also comes after Charles III, who is King of Canada, became unexpectedly embroiled in UK-US politics last week.

As Sir Keir Starmer visited Mf Trump at the White House, he took with him a signed letter from the King inviting the Trumps to visit Balmoral and Dumfries House, and to the UK for a second State Visit.

The optics are complicated for the monarch, who has not yet been able to visit Canada since he became King and will not be able to do so until its elections are decided in the autumn.

Mr Trumps extraordinary suggestion that the US should annex Canada to create its 51st State will no doubt form part of the discussions.

The Kings decision to host Mr Trudeau today is an entirely normal part of his role, which has taken on extra significance thanks to global affairs.

King Charles meets Justin Trudeau at Sandringham - PA

11:01 AM GMT

Britain has finally restored its power in Europe after Brexit

It was the day Britain finally put Brexit behind it and assumed its new role in Europe.

The Prime Minister welcomed a host of European leaders to a London summit with nothing less than the security of the Continent at stake.

As he sat down in the grand surroundings of Lancaster House, Sir Keir Starmer had Emmanuel Macron to his right and the under-pressure Volodymyr Zelensky to his left.

The three leaders are working on a peace plan for Ukraine to present to Donald Trump. It includes British and French troops as part of a peacekeeping force.

Europes new world order is being built before our eyes. America a much more distant ally, Europe taking more responsibility for its own security through a kind of mini Nato.

10:49 AM GMT

Zelensky: We want this war to end

Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of not wanting to end the war in Ukraine.

Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace, the Ukrainian president said this morning.

We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror: over the past week, more than 1,050 attack drones, nearly 1,300 aerial bombs, and more than 20 missiles have been launched at Ukraine to destroy cities and kill people.

It comes amid reports that Donald Trump wants Mr Zelensky to declare that he wants peace and apologise before returing to the White House to sign a minerals deal.

Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace. We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror: over the past week, more than 1,050 attack drones, nearly 1,300 aerial bombs, and more than 20 missiles have pic.twitter.com/OkZMY9hhgT  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

10:34 AM GMT

White House split on Ukraine

The White House is reportedly split on how to handle Ukraine after a public row between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Friday.

One camp is balance, while another is taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country, Bloomberg UK reported. Others expected Mr Zelensky to resign once peace is achieved - a key Russian request.

Mr Trump is yet to make up his mind, according to the report, and wants the Ukrainian president to apologise and say he is ready for peace before signing a minerals deal.

10:12 AM GMT

Kremlin says West is falling apart

The Kremlin has said Western unity is falling apart over Ukraine after the public row between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky last week.

The fragmentation of the collective west has begun, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, said. Someone will have to make Zelensky want peace. If the Europeans can do it, they should be honoured and praised.

Mr Peskov also said a summit hosted by Sir Keir Starmer in London on Sunday was not aimed at achieving peace.

This clearly does not relate to a peace plan, but will allow for the continuation of hostilities, he told reporters.

10:02 AM GMT

Zelensky must hold elections, says Farage

Nigel Farage has said Volodymyr Zelensky must call an election in Ukraine as soon as a peace deal is on the table.

The Reform UK leader said a fresh vote should be called once a credible agreement is on the cards to give the Ukrainian people a say in their future.

Donald Trump, the US president, who has previously described Mr Zelensky as a dictator, has also indicated that Ukrainian elections would be needed as part of any peace deal.

Asked about calls for the Ukrainian president to step down during a phone-in on LBC, Mr Farage said: Well, he must have elections, thats absolutely clear.

Pressed on whether a vote should be called immediately, he said: He must have elections as soon as there is a peace deal on the table, a credible peace deal on the table, then the best way for the Ukrainian population to discuss that deal and the shape of that deal is to have an election. Very, very important. Its not just for one man and the current elected parliament to decide.

09:44 AM GMT

Zelensky doesnt want peace, says Russia

The Kremlin has accused Volodymyr Zelensky of not wanting peace, following a clash last week between the Ukrainian leader and US President Donald Trump.

He doesnt want peace. Someone should make him want peace. If the Europeans do it, all kudos to them, spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Mr Peskov described last weeks angry exchange as unprecedented.

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a public row in the Oval Office on Friday - AFP

09:38 AM GMT

Zelensky should have worn a suit to White House, says Farage

Volodymyr Zelensky should have worn a suit to the White House for his ill-fated meeting with Donald Trump, Nigel Farage has said.

Mr Zelensky arrived at the Oval Office wearing his signature military-style clothing, leading one American journalist to ask in a hostile tone of voice why he did not wear a suit.

Mr Trump came to his defence, saying I like his clothes. But speaking on LBC on Monday morning, Mr Farage said: If I turned up at the White House, I would make sure I was wearing a suit and my shoes were clean.

In diplomacy our Prime Minister was briefed and briefed and briefed as to how to deal with the visit to the White House. Alright, if Zelensky wants to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredibly old-fashioned about this stuff

If youre going in with a positive mindset, maybe Zelensky should have thought about that. But thats minor.

09:32 AM GMT

Farage: Zelensky played White House meeting very badly

Nigel Farage has accused Volodymyr Zelensky of playing it very badly during his disastrous meeting with Donald Trump and JD Vance in the Oval Office.

Mr Trump had accused the Ukrainian president of gambling with World War Three in a televised showdown while JD Vance, the vice-president, accused Mr Zelensky of disrespect.

Asked about the future of the Ukraine-Russia war amid peace talks, Mr Farage told LBC: We, after three years of war, after the Putin invasion, and a million battle count, have a situation now where we either go for a peace deal or this continues for year after year after year.

I know that Boris Johnson has been the biggest proponent of total war but the truth is, and I think this is what Zelensky will have to face up to, the longer the war goes on, the more it suits Russia. And wars either end with a deal or they end in annihilation.

What is interesting is that before Zelensky left the White House, hed realised that he had overplayed his hand. Yes of course they bit back at him but he overplayed his hand, but before he even left the White House he was willing to go back in and sign the minerals deal.

I think President Zelensky was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didnt back him. I think it was unwise. Yeah sure, Trump and Vance bit back, but in diplomatic terms I think Zelensky played it very badly.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage during an appearance on LBCs Nick Ferrari at Breakfast show - PA

09:28 AM GMT

Zelensky: US cannot force me from power

Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected US calls to resign after leading Republicans called for him to step aside.

The Ukrainian president told British media, including the Telegraph, that simply replacing me will not be simple.

Its not enough to just hold an election. You need to also not let me run. This will be a bit more difficult. Looks like you will have to negotiate with me, Mr Zelensky said, before reiterating that he would step down in exchange for Nato membership.

It comes after Mike Waltz, the White Houses national security adviser, told CNN the Trump administration needed a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end this war.

09:09 AM GMT

UK says no agreement on Ukraine truce proposal

France and Britain have not agreed on a partial truce plan for Ukraine, a Government minister has said after Emmanuel Macron said it had been proposed by the two countries.

No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, armed forces minister Luke Pollard told Times Radio this morning.

A UK government official also said that a one-month truce has not been agreed.

08:44 AM GMT

Trump: Worry less about Putin

Donald Trump has said America should spend less time worrying about Putin.

Taking to his Truth Social overnight, Mr Trump said more time should spent focusing on migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our country - so that we dont end up like Europe!

08:26 AM GMT

Mandelsons comments on Zelensky not government policy

Lord Mandelsons calls for Volodymyr Zelensky to make up with Donald Trump and support his peace initiative are not government policy, the Armed Forces minister has said.

Luke Pollard was asked about Britains ambassador to the US calling on the Ukrainian president to give his unconditional backing to US plans to end the three-year conflict.

Asked whether Lord Mandelsons position was now government policy, Mr Pollard said: No. Its certainly right that of all the people on our continent who want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

But were still in discussions, diplomatic engagement, with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of our deal.

But its certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war so what we need to find is a formula that allows a peace that is lasting and durable to be created, and then to be defended.

Asked if Lord Mandelson misspoke, Mr Pollard replied: Thats not government policy, and you wouldnt ask me to commentate on every up and down in the negotiations. But we are seeking to find that lasting peace.

08:07 AM GMT

Ukraine front line keeps getting closer to EU

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Monday said the Ukraine front line keeps getting closer to us, heightening the chance of a European war.

Never has the risk of a war in Europe, in the European Union been so high ... the threat keeps getting closer to us, the front line keeps getting closer to us, he told France Inter radio, a day after European leaders rallied around Ukraine at a summit in London.

07:55 AM GMT

Minister rejects calls for Zelensky to resign

A minister has rejected US calls for Volodymyr Zelenskys resignation after leading Republicans urged him to step aside.

Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, was asked about the demands from senior Republicans and whether the US would back European plans to end the conflict with Mr Zelensky in power.

Mr Pollard told Sky News: Its clear that the meeting last week was very uncomfortable but its for the Ukrainians to choose who their leaders are.

President Zelensky is a democratically elected leader. Hes been clear that he sees his role as bringing lasting peace to Ukraine, and hes been clear over the weekend as well that hes been prepared to take steps himself with his position if it helps secure a lasting peace for Ukraine.

But its for the Ukrainians to decide on what terms that peace is conducted, what, how and to what extent that plan works.

But we need to do our bit and thats why over the weekend and all throughout last week youve seen incredible leadership from the United Kingdom, from the Prime Minister in particular, having these really difficult conversations with our allies.

07:44 AM GMT

Minister refuses to commit troops to Ukraine without US backstop

The Armed Forces minister has refused three times to say whether UK troops are guaranteed to Ukraine without a US backstop.

Luke Pollard was asked whether there would be a British military presence in the region with or without the backing of President Trump.

He told Times Radio: We think it essential there is a US backstop to make this work.

Asked again, Mr Pollard replied: At the moment weve pledged that the UK will step up as part of that multinational movement. Were still working through those negotiations at the moment.

We feel though as a country, as the Prime Minister has set out both at the summit and to President Zelensky at the weekend, that we need to do more [and] that our efforts need and require US involvement as a backstop.

Pressed for a third time, he said: I dont think its right to get into making an announcement before weve obviously reached the deal, which I obviously cant do If the US isnt involved, we will struggle to get that durable peace.

Luke Pollard, the armed forces minister, refuses to commit troops to Ukraine without a US backstop - Jamie Lorriman

07:36 AM GMT

Ukraine strikes oil refinery 1,500km deep into Russia

Ukraine has reportedly struck an oil refinery 1,500km deep into Russia in what would be one of its deepest strikes of the war so far.

The oil refinery, located in the Russian city of Ufa, was on fire overnight, according to the Russian state news agency.

Several Russian channels on Telegram said the fire followed an explosion at the refinery.

Moscow has blamed the fire on technical issues, while Ukraine is yet to comment.

Ukraine has stepped up attacks on Russian soil in recent months, using unmanned drones and long-range missiles provided by the US and UK.

07:24 AM GMT

I attended Zelenskys private press conference  this is what he told me

Before the intimate hour-long press conference began at Stansted Airport, a seasoned industry veteran leaned toward me and remarked: This may be the most important conference you and I will ever attend in our careers.

This statement encapsulated the gravity of the moment as we awaited the president.

The decisions to be made in the coming days could very well prove to be the most consequential for Europe and its security since the end of the Second World War.

The conference room was tight and bustling, the air punctuated by the roar of aeroplanes overhead, making the water in our glasses shake.

When president Zelensky entered, a collective breath, an almost imperceptible pause, then nods of acknowledgement when he arrived.

To our surprise, he appeared more relaxed than anticipated after what must have been a hellish week. Smiling and exchanging light-hearted banter, he nonetheless remained unwavering in the seriousness of his answers.

This was not a man who was prepared to offer big concessions following his recent meeting with president Trump. The sole moment of discomfort came when he was asked if he would apologise to the American president. He deftly evaded the question.

07:14 AM GMT

Truce would show if Russia is serious, says France

A one-month truce in Ukraine in the air, at sea would allow the West to see if Russia is serious about ending the war, Frances foreign minister has said.

France and Britain are planning to propose a one-month truce in Ukraine, Emmanuel Macron said following talks in London on Sunday.

A truce on air, sea and energy would enable us to verify if Russia would be willing to end the war with Ukraine, Jean-Noel Barrot said.

European soldiers would only be deployed on the ground in the second phase of a potential peace deal, the French president told Le Figaro.

07:09 AM GMT

Welcome to our live coverage

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine.

Well bring you the latest news and analysis throughout the day.
Absolom Sigiyo (left) and Romulad Stefan Houphouet were found guilty of multiple sexual offences at Sheffield crown court. Composite: NCA/PA

Two men have been found guilty of raping two teenage girls who were residents of a childrens home in Rotherham when they were targeted for sexual exploitation.

The girls were sexually assaulted several times a week over a period of six months in the South Yorkshire town by a gang of men who referred to them as fresh meat, Sheffield crown court was told during a five-week trial.

The teenagers were powerless to prevent the actions of older and more mature individuals determined to exploit them for sexual purposes, prosecutors said.

On Monday, Romulad Stefan Houphouet, 37, and Absolom Sigiyo, 41, were found guilty of a number of offences including rape.

A third defendant, Jacek Brzozowski, 35, was cleared of the one charge he was facing in the trial, of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. He admitted a charge of penetrative sexual activity with a child earlier this year.

Houphouet, an Ivorian national of Burngreave in Sheffield, and Sigiyo, a Zimbabwean national of Catcliffe in Rotherham, would be sentenced on Wednesday, Judge Wright said as she remanded both in custody.

Brzozowski, a Polish national of Rawmarsh, Rotherham, was bailed and will be sentenced on 14 April.

When the trial opened last month, prosecutor Gordon Stables told a jury both the complainants were living in a childrens home when they were befriended by the defendants and other associates.

Stables said these were all older men in their 20s, or thereabouts, whose sole intention was to engage in penetrative sexual activity with them, knowing they were under the age of consent.

The prosecutor said: The defendants gained the girls trust and confidence by plying them with alcohol and giving them cigarettes at house parties, and offering them flirtatious attention.

Both girls became conditioned to having regular sexual intercourse with the same male.

Stables said: Psychologically, the girls were made to feel that sexual activity was how they repaid the debt they owed the defendants for the provision of alcohol and tobacco.

Once the males were sexually satisfied, however, the girls were treated as having served their purpose  at least temporarily  and they were often then ignored and expected to make their own way home. In this way, [the girls] were sexually groomed within an environment of dependency.

Stables explained how Houphouet befriended the two girls in Rotherham town centre one evening more than 10 years ago and raped one of them in an alley that night.

He said Houphouet took both girls the short distance to a house and introduced them to Sigiyo and other males who were undoubtedly present.

The convictions are the latest following the National Crime Agencys investigation into child sexual exploitation in Rotherham between 1997 and 2013, called Operation Stovewood.

It was set up after the landmark Jay report found in 2014 that at least 1,400 girls were abused by gangs of men of mainly Pakistani heritage in Rotherham in that period.
Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer and Volodymyr Zelenskyy attend the European leaders' summit in London. Photograph: Javad Parsa/Reuters

France is proposing a partial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine, Emmanuel Macron and his foreign minister have said, as European efforts to bolster support for Kyiv accelerate in the face of uncertain US backing.

The French foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, said on Monday: Such a truce  on air, sea and energy infrastructure  would allow us to determine whether Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith. He said it would also enable Europe to gauge Putins attitude to real peace negotiations.

A day after European leaders rallied around Ukraine at a summit in London, Barrot added: Never has the risk of a war in Europe, in the EU, been so high  The threat keeps getting closer to us, the frontline keeps getting closer to us.

His comments picked up on those of the French president, who suggested France and the UK had agreed on a plan for a short-term partial ceasefire that would not cover ground fighting, with troops to be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase.

Ukraines president, Voldoymyr Zelenskyy, would not say whether he supported the proposal  though he did tell reporters at a press briefing that he was familiar with it. I am aware of everything, he said on Sunday night.

Zelenskyy also emphasised that a ceasefire would mean little without Ukraine obtaining immediate security guarantees from allies. He said Russia had broken the ceasefire that ran between 2014 and early 2022 in Ukraine 25 times and that it was likely to do so again without external intervention.

The UK armed forces minister Luke Pollard said the French suggestion was not a plan Britain currently recognised and added that no agreement had been reached on what a truce might look like. But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how  we create a lasting and durable peace, he said.

Related: Peter Mandelsons Ukraine comments not government policy, minister says

Donald Trump planned to convene top White House officials on Monday to discuss next steps, which included reviewing the European proposal but also considering a cutoff in aid to Ukraine, according to reports in the New York Times and other US media. Those set to join the briefing include the national security adviser, Michael Waltz, the secretary of state, Marco Rubio, and the secretary of defence, Pete Hegseth.

Waltz briefly took questions on Ukraine while walking towards the West Wing. He declined to say whether the US would accept the European proposal but welcomed the efforts by Macron and the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer. We welcome the Europeans taking a lead in European security, Waltz said. I mean, thats been an underpinning. They have to invest in the capability to do that. Theyre certainly showing a will.

Trump allies continued to pile pressure on Zelenskyy over the weekend, with several suggesting the Ukrainian president should consider resigning in order to provide a way forward for negotiations. Rubio and Waltz were considered to be the most hawkish of Trumps cabinet on Russia, but have fallen in line with the criticism of Ukraine by Trump and the US vice-president, JD Vance,, as tensions have escalated.

Speaking to Fox on Monday morning, Waltz did not say Zelenskyy should resign, but when asked whether Zelenskyy was fit to lead Ukraine said: What happened Friday really put that up in the air.

European leaders, the head of Nato, Mark Rutte, and the Canadian prime minister, Justin Trudeau, met in London on Sunday in the aftermath of an acrimonious exchange between Zelenskyy and Trump.

Starmer, who convened the London talks, said afterwards that the leaders led by the UK and France had agreed to draw up a Ukraine peace plan that would be presented to the Trump administration.

Zelenskyy said on Sunday he expected a plan to emerge on paper in the coming weeks. He added that a growing number of countries were ready to support it, naming Turkey and the eight Baltic and Nordic states as being willing to help.

Although he referenced a need for western backing, Zelenskyy said his best security guarantee was a strong Ukrainian army and notably did not repeat previous suggestions that a peacekeeping force of 100,000-150,000 would be desirable.

European leaders have been told by the US that it will not participate, leaving Britain and France to propose creating a reassurance force of up to 30,000 that would secure Ukrainian airports and key infrastructure.

But Zelenskyy said that to be credible, that force would need some support from the US, particularly in air defence and intelligence. He said he believed Washington would remain a partner, even if his personal relationship with Trump had collapsed after the White House row.

Meanwhile, fighting continued on the battlefield in Ukraine. Ukraine has made some small-scale counterattacks around the western edge of Toretsk, a frontline city in Donetsk, while Russia pushed on with a long-running assault on the eastern city of Pokrovsk.

Russias defence ministry has also claimed it killed 150 Ukrainian soldiers at a base near the city of Dnipro. The new commander of Ukraines land forces, Maj Gen Mykhailo Drapatyi, described the strike on Saturday as terrible and said he was launching an investigation into why so many service personnel gathered together in the open.

A long-range Ukrainian drone overnight hit an old refinery in Ufa, more than 870 miles (1,400km) from Ukraines border. The Ufimsky refinery is one of the biggest in Russia and supplies fuel to the countrys armed forces.

The Kremlin, which has rejected the idea of any western troops in Ukraine, said on Monday the results of the European summit would allow fighting to continue, adding that Zelenskyy must be forced to change his stance and seek peace.

Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, said Fridays Oval Office clash showed how difficult it would be to reach a settlement on the conflict, and that Russia would continue to negotiate with the US on normalising the countries bilateral ties.

We see that the collective west has partially begun to lose its collectivity, Peskov said.

Friedrich Merz, who is likely to be Germanys next chancellor, suggested the Oval Office spat was a trap set in advance for the Ukrainian leader. It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelenskyy, but obviously a manufactured escalation, Merz said.

A senior European official who asked to remain anonymous said Trump now had to choose whether he wanted to call himself a leader of the free world, or leader of an extortion gang. The latter is not interesting for Europe.

Zelenskyy said on Monday that he would work with Europe on the terms for a possible peace deal to present to the US. The Ukrainian president said on Telegram: In the near future, all of us in Europe will shape our common positions  the lines we must achieve and the lines we cannot compromise on. These positions will be presented to our partners in the United States.

In a video showing damage from Russian attacks on Ukraine, Zelenskyy said Kyiv needed strong support from our partners, with Moscow launching more than 1,050 attack drones, nearly 1,300 aerial bombs, and more than 20 missiles in the past week.

Amid talk in Europe of the biggest US policy reversal since the second world war, the European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, said she would inform EU member states on Tuesday about plans to strengthen the the blocs defence industry and military capabilities.

We need a massive surge in defence, without any question. We want lasting peace, but lasting peace can only be built on strength, and strength begins with strengthening ourselves, she said.

With some leaders calling for EU countries to raise their defence budgets to 3-3.5% of gross domestic product, German coalition talks have raised the prospect of a huge boom in spending  including defence and infrastructure funds worth hundreds of billions of euros.

Viktor Orban, Hungarys Moscow-friendly prime minister, criticised the London summit, saying European leaders decided  they want to go on with the war instead of opting for peace and describing their approach as bad, dangerous and mistaken.

Orban and Slovakias prime minister, Robert Fico, are likely to challenge and may veto the conclusions of an extraordinary EU summit on Thursday to discuss support for Ukraine, European security guarantees and how to pay for European defence needs.

Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the head of Zelenskyys office, said successive American presidents had tried to improve relations with Russia  without ever achieving any tangible results.

The list of American attempts to reach out to the Kremlin could go on indefinitely. Why were there so many? Because each previous attempt, unfortunately for the world but entirely predictably, ended in failure, he posted on social media.

Podolyak added: Generations of American politicians come and go, yet Russias inability to adhere to the rules of civilised international coexistence remains constant.
Volker Turk: In a paradoxical mirror image, policies intended to protect people from discrimination are now labelled as discriminatory. Photograph: Martial Trezzini/EPA

The UN human rights chief has warned of a fundamental shift in the US and sounded the alarm over the growing power of unelected tech oligarchs, in a stinging rebuke of Washington weeks into Donald Trumps presidency.

Volker Turk said there had been bipartisan support for human rights in the US for decades but said he was now deeply worried by the fundamental shift in direction that is taking place domestically and internationally.

Without referring to Trump by name, Turk, an Austrian lawyer who heads the UNs rights body, criticised the Republican presidents measures to overturn longstanding equity and anti-discrimination policies, as well as repeated threats against the media and politicians.

In a paradoxical mirror image, policies intended to protect people from discrimination are now labelled as discriminatory. Progress is being rolled back on gender equality, Turk said in comments to the UN human rights council in Geneva.

Disinformation, intimidation and threats, notably against journalists and public officials, risk undermining the work of independent media and the functioning of institutions, he added. Divisive rhetoric is being used to distort, deceive and polarise. This is generating fear and anxiety among many.

Since returning to power, Trump has continued to attack the press. Last month, he barred the Associated Press news agency  on which local and international media have traditionally relied for US government reporting  from the White House.

His administration has launched a purge of anti-discrimination policies under the umbrella term of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and moved to slash rights for transgender people. At the same time, the administration has sent panic through communities with its widespread and muddled immigration crackdown.

Internationally, the US has moved to withdraw funding for international organisations that promote health and human rights, such as the World Health Organization, and imposed economic sanctions on the international criminal court, which is investigating war crimes in Gaza.

Washingtons traditional allies, including Canada, France and Germany, are feeling increasingly alarmed as Trump lashes out at democratic leaders while expressing a fondness for autocrats, including the Russian president, Vladimir Putin.

In his speech on Monday, Turk presented a concerned overview of the global rights situation, saying the world was going through a period of turbulence and unpredictability.

[What] we are experiencing goes to the very core of the international order  an order that has brought us an unprecedented level of global stability. We cannot allow the fundamental global consensus around international norms and institutions, built painstakingly over decades, to crumble before our eyes.

He called out the growing influence wielded by a handful of unelected tech oligarchs who have our data: they know where we live, what we do, our genes and our health conditions, our thoughts, our habits, our desires and our fears.

Turk added: They know how to manipulate us.

While his comments were not directed at the US, they come at a time of rising and consolidated power among American tech and social media billionaires who have fallen in line behind Trump.

They include Elon Musk, who owns X and has been the 78-year-old presidents most prominent backer, but also Metas Mark Zuckerberg, who has ended factchecking programmes on Facebook and Instagram  a move the UN chief, Antonio Guterres, has warned will open the floodgates to more hate, more threats, and more violence.

Amazons Jeff Bezos, the worlds third-richest man and owner of the Washington Post, which in the last US presidential election declined to endorse a candidate for the first time in decades, recently banned opinion articles that did not support his views on personal liberties and free markets.

Turk, whose comments were not limited to the situation in the US but could also apply to tech leaders in China and India, said that any form of unregulated power can lead to oppression, subjugation, and even tyranny  the playbook of the autocrat.

 100 days of Trumps presidency, with Jonathan Freedland and guests

On 30 April, join Jonathan Freedland, Kim Darroch, Devika Bhat and Leslie Vinjamuri as they look at Trumps presidency on his 100th day in office, live at Conway Hall, London, and livestreamed globally. Book tickets here or at guardian.live
US marines take part in a landing exercise in the Tofta military firing range area near Visby, Gotland, in 2022 - Anadolu

Swedish police have opened an investigation into suspected sabotage after power cables to a pump supplying the Baltic Sea island of Gotland with water had been disconnected intentionally.

Gotland is Swedens largest island and is 190 miles from where Russias Baltic fleet is based and is seen as a key territory for Nato.

The island was briefly occupied by Russia in 1808, and more recently Micael Byden, Swedens former defence chief, said Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, had had both eyes on it.

According to police, technicians had responded to a fault alarm from Gotlands water and sewage unit on Sunday.

Micael Byden, Swedens former defence chief, said Vladimir Putin has both eyes on Gotland - Anadolu

Upon inspection, they discovered that unknown perpetrators had opened an electrical cabinet and deliberately disconnected power to the essential pump system.

They have broken open a bronze cap that supplies the raw water pumps with power and sabotaged it so that the pumps stopped, Susanne Bjergegaard-Pettersson, the head of the islands water and sewage system, said.

The possible sabotage could have left the entire island without water had it not been discovered.

The pump is now working again after repairs and the incident is under investigation, according to the police.

Mr Byden added: Putins goal is to gain control of the Baltic Sea. Who controls Gotland controls the Baltic Sea.

Vladimir Putin rides in a submersible near Gotland in 2013 - Sasha Mordovets/Getty Images Europe

If Russia seized control of the island, it could threaten Nato countries from the sea, according to Mr Byden.

Gotland is in the centre of the Baltic Sea, between Sweden and Estonia, and 190 miles from Kaliningrad, Russias Baltic fleet base.

The Baltic Sea region is on alert and Nato has boosted its presence after a series of power cable, telecom and gas pipeline outages since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

Analysts say Swedens Nato membership has strengthened the alliance presence in the Baltic Sea and enhanced defence for Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland and Poland.

During most of the Cold War, Sweden kept a strong military presence on the island. However, the island was demilitarised in 2005 to promote peace and co-operation in the region.

The water system sabotage follows another suspicious incident in the same region.

Last week, an internet cable off the island was severed  the latest in a series of incidents in the region which have raised concerns about Russian sabotage and spying attempts.

Last month, authorities also discovered damage to an undersea fibre optic cable running between the Latvian city of Ventspils and Gotland.

In response to the cable incident, Swedens coastguard had deployed vessels to the area.
Fostering a rescue dog may be a challenging and emotional process at times, but there are plenty of moments that make being a foster parent fun and rewarding, too. Whether you're helping a scared dog find their confidence or letting a stressed-out mama rest after a stressful ordeal, witnessing your foster's transformation is a one-of-a-kind experience. And no one knows this better than experienced dog foster mom Isabel Klee.

Isabel is a writer, influencer, and dog mom who has welcomed many pups into her NYC home, so she knows the ins and outs of fostering like the back of her hand. Each dog she cares for has their own special story, but her current foster, Osito the rescued Yorkshire Terrier, is proving himself to be the king of coziness.

Osito, which means 'little bear' in Spanish, was determined to reach the comfiest spot in the house on February 21, so naturally, Isabel had to give him a helping hand. It doesn't get much sweeter than this!

What a happy little dog! Osito looks as happy as can be while cuddled into the blanket basket, which many Yorkshire Terrier parents could relate to.

Related: Moment Little 'Neuro' Foster Yorkie Meets Loving 'Neuro' Brother Is Nothing Short of Amazing

"OMG! That's the thing about Yorkies," began commenter @sheisaurimaur. "They see anything cozy, and they want to lie on it." It's in his genes! Plenty of dogs, especially tiny dog breeds, feel warm and comfortable when they bundle up, so it makes sense why this would be comforting to a foster pup like Osito.

I nearly shed a tear while reading NaeNae's heartwarming comment praising Isabel, her fiance, and the love they give the foster dogs in their care: "This is such a metaphor for what you do fostering these babies. You help them through their struggles, and they find happiness, warmth, and love." You help them achieve their dreams of finding a forever family. " Pass the tissues, please!

Osito's Neurological Journey

Some special rescue dogs like this little bear require a bit more care than othersand that's ok! Each pup has their own unique needs, but for Osito, that includes managing his symptoms of cerebellar hypoplasia. This neurological disorder results in an underdeveloped cerebellum, which causes mobility issues like wobbly movements, inability to walk, and muscle weakness.

Until recently, Osito's neurological condition hasn't caused many issues, but on February 28, Isabel rushed him to the ER. She noticed him acting lethargic and weak after he slept through an entire vet appointment, so he's being monitored in a local clinic overnight. His rescue, Muddy Paws, covers the costs of his vet visits, but because it is a nonprofit, it is asking the public for any help it can provide. If you feel called to donate, you can do so on their website.

We hope Osito is feeling more like himself soon so that he can get back to his spot in the blanket basket. We are cheering for you, little bear!

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos.

Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
Anora star Mikey Madison honoured the sex work community in her Oscars acceptance speech as she collected the leading actress gong during Sundays ceremony.

The 25-year-old from Los Angeles beat competition from stars including Wickeds Cynthia Erivo and The Substance actress Demi Moore, who was the favourite to win at this years awards.

Anora, which follows a young sex worker who falls in a love with the son of a Russian oligarch, picked up five gongs in total.

Accepting her acting award, Madison said: This is very surreal. Forgive me, Im nervous, Im gonna read off of a paper, but thank you so much to the Academy.

Mikey Madison, winner of the award for best performance by an actress in a leading role for Anora, and Zoe Saldana, winner of the award for best performance by an actress in a supporting role for Emilia Perez (Jordan Strauss/AP)

I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me, so to be here standing in this room today is really incredible.

She then thanked her incredible family, my mum and my dad and my sister and my little brother, and my twin brother  thank you for being my best friend, not that you have a choice.

She also thanked Brooklyns Brighton Beach for lending us your beautiful backdrop and incredible community.

I also want to again recognise and honour the sex worker community, she said.

Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin with their statuettes (Jordan Strauss/AP)

I will continue to support and be an ally, all of the incredible people, the women that Ive had the privilege of meeting from that community, has been one of the highlights of this entire incredible experience.

I also just want to recognise the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of my fellow nominees.

Im honoured to be recognised alongside all of you, this is a dream come true. Im probably gonna wake up tomorrow. Thank you so much, Sean (Baker) I adore you. This is all because of you. Thank you.

The film debuted to critical acclaim at Cannes last year and won the Palme dOr.

During the 97th Academy Awards, director Sean Baker became the first person to win four Oscars for a single film at one ceremony.

Mikey Madison arriving at the Oscars (Richard Shotwell/AP)

Previously Walt Disney won the same amount in one night but for different films.

While Madison might not be as well known as some of her peers, the film star has been in the industry for more than a decade.

She was born Mikaela Madison Rosberg in Los Angeles, one of five children of psychologist parents.

Her mother signed her up for an acting class in her mid-teens after Madison had trained in competitive horse riding, which she found lonely compared with the collaborative nature of acting.

She has appeared in films including 2019s Once Upon A Time In Hollywood and she played Amber Freeman in 2022 horror Scream.

She also played Max in TV comedy drama Better Things and Judith Weinstein in thriller Lady In The Lake, featuring Natalie Portman.

In February, she won the leading actress Bafta for Anora which saw her learn Russian to play the exotic dancer.

She needed to speak Russian in a very specific way, she told Pamela Anderson on Varietys Actors On Actors series, adding: Her Russian is very much at the level of maybe an elementary schooler.
Oscar winners Mikey Madison and Zoe Saldana were among the stars who transformed their looks to celebrate their achievements at the Vanity Fair after party.

American actress Madison, who won the coveted best actress award for her role in the comedy Anora, literally let her hair down from the up-do she wore during the main ceremony when she moved on to the Wallis Annenberg Centre for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills.

Oscar winner Mikey Madison literally let her hair down for the Vanity Fair party (Doug Peters/PA)

The 25-year-old also swapped her silk pink and black column dress by Christian Dior for an all-black gown which featured a plunging neckline and a fuller skirt.

Saldana showed off her best supporting actress Oscar for her role in Netflixs Spanish-language film Emilia Perez, in which she plays a lawyer called Rita who helps a Mexican drug lord change gender, as she attended the after party.

Zoe Saldana wore a peach ruffled mini skirt with a long train paired with a black long-sleeve top (Doug Peters/PA)

The 46-year-old changed from her burgundy ruched satin-shine gown by Saint Laurent into a peach ruffled mini skirt with a long train paired with a black long-sleeve top.

Best actor winner Adrien Brody posed with his partner, British fashion designer and actress Georgina Chapman, and his parents, Sylvia Plachy and Elliot Brody, at the star-studded event.

Best actor winner Adrien Brody with his partner, Georgina Chapman, and his parents, Sylvia Plachy and Elliot Brody (Doug Peters/PA)

Brody, 51, took home the award for The Brutalist, a film about a Jewish-Hungarian architect who flees the horrors of the Second World War for a better life in the US.

Wicked star Cynthia Erivo turned heads once again with her next outfit of the night as she left behind her plumed velvet green gown for a white tulle dress which featured a train and black ribbon detailing.

Cynthia Erivo changed into tulle for the Vanity Fair party (Doug Peters/PA)

The 38-year-old, who missed out on the best actress award, also showed off her signature long nails which featured gold-coloured detailing and gems.

British star Ralph Fiennes kept it classic in a black tuxedo with a black bow tie for the event.

British Conclave star Ralph Fiennes kept his look classic (Doug Peters/PA)

The 62-year-old had been nominated for best actor for his starring role in Conclave, about the election of a pope in the Vatican.

Reality star Kim Kardashian was also among those in attendance at the after party, donning a white strapless gown with a full skirt.

Kim Kardashian at the Wallis Annenberg Centre for the Performing Arts where the party was held (Doug Peters/PA)

The TV personality wore her hair in a tight bun and kept her look stripped back, with no necklace or earrings.

Sir Mick Jagger was joined by his partner, Melanie Hamrick, at the star-studded event after he presented the original song Oscar at the ceremony.

Mick Jagger and his partner, Melanie Hamrick, pose together after the Rolling Stones frontman presented an award at the Oscars (Doug Peters/PA)

The Rolling Stones frontman stayed in his black blazer which he wore over a white shirt, while his partner opted for a black dress.
Oscars host Conan OBrien addressed the scandal surrounding Emilia Perez star Karla Sofia Gascon in his opening speech amid controversy over a number of tweets she posted prior to the films release.

After the posts, which made comments about Islam, the death of George Floyd and diversity at the Oscars, were brought to light, the actress apologised and maintained that she had not been racist in Instagram posts.

Opening the event, OBrien, 61, said: I am excited to be here. Welcome to the 97th Academy Awards. Its Hollywoods biggest night. It starts at four in the afternoon. Everyone here just had brunch, I dont understand it.

Addressing the controversy, he added: Little fact for you, (film) Anora uses the F word 479 times. Thats three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascons publicist.

He continued: Karla Sofia Gascon is here tonight, and Karla if you are going to tweet about the Oscars, remember, my name is Jimmy Kimmel.

Gascon, 52, who smiled in the audience, had skipped some awards ceremonies before the Oscars because of the historical tweets.

Conan OBrien, left, and Liza Powel OBrien arrive at the Oscars on Sunday (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

She is nominated in the leading actress category for her role playing a Mexican cartel boss who hires a lawyer to help them transition gender in Spanish-language musical Emilia Perez.

OBrien also took aim at Netflix for price increases, and the length of nominated movie The Brutalist, which has a running time of 215 minutes.

Calling out US comedian Adam Sandler, who was in the audience wearing a blue hoodie and shorts, OBrien said the actor was dressed like a guy playing video poker at 2am.

Following a playful back and forth between the two, the actor, who is known for wearing casual attire, walked into the aisle of the theatre and said he was leaving before going over to Timothee Chalamet and shouting his surname in a silly way, which he previously did on Saturday Night Live (SNL).

OBrien also spoke about the Californian wildfires, which caused devastation to people and homes in January.

The end of his opening monologue included a musical number which featured someone in costume as one of the sandworms from Denis Villeneuves Dune films.

Before appearing on stage, a video played of OBrien emerging from Demi Moores spine in a recreation of a scene from Oscar-nominated body horror film The Substance.

The first-time Oscars host has plenty of experience presenting at awards ceremonies, having hosted the Emmy Awards in 2002 and 2006 and the MTV Movie Awards in 2014.

He is best known for presenting late-night chat shows Late Night With Conan OBrien, The Tonight Show With Conan OBrien, and Conan.

The Massachusetts-born comedian and TV star got his big break working as a writer on Not Necessarily The News, the US version of Not The Nine OClock News, before joining the writing staff of sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL).

Karla Sofia Gascon attending the Emilia Perez cast photo call at the Corinthia Hotel, in London (Ian West/PA)

He has also served as a writer on animated comedy series The Simpsons and currently hosts podcast Conan OBrien Needs A Friend.

He took over from David Letterman on Late Night in 1993 and remained in the role until 2009 when he moved to the Tonight Show.

The network failed to manage the transition from Jay Leno to OBrien and the comedian infamously left NBC in 2010 following one of the most high-profile spats in US TV history.

He has won five Emmys including outstanding writing for a non-fiction programme in 2024 for his travel show Conan OBrien Must Go.

In January he was named the newest recipient of the Mark Twain Prize for lifetime achievement in comedy.
Is Apple's DEI program one of the nine worst?

By Stefan Padfield

web posted March 3, 2025

On January 21, 2025, President Trump issued an executive order titled "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity." One of the subsections of that EO is titled "Encouraging the Private Sector to End Illegal DEI Discrimination and Preferences." Among other things, that section directs "the Attorney General, within 120 days of this order, in consultation with the heads of relevant agencies" to "identify up to nine potential civil compliance investigations of publicly traded corporations."

Should Apple be one of those nine? To answer that question, let's review some of Apple's relevant disclosures.

First, Apple's "Inclusion & Diversity" page starts by proclaiming that: "We're continuing to create a culture of inclusion, increasing representation across teams, and holding ourselves accountable at every level." And just to be clear that Apple is referring to representation on the basis of race and sex, tables are set forth just below this statement dividing Apple's workforce into "Gender" (though only "Male" and "Female" numbers are provided) and "Race and Ethnicity," which is broken into Asian, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Indigenous, Multiracial, and White. This immediately raises the question: How does a company increase representation of one race without discriminating against other races? As Judge Ho, concurring in the 5th Circuit case of Price v. Valvoline noted: "favoring one race necessarily means disfavoring those of another race."

Second, Apple makes clear that this discrimination will occur not only in entry level hiring but also leadership positions by proclaiming: "Over the past year, we filled more open leadership roles than ever with women globally and Black candidates in the United States. We remain committed to continuing to grow leadership representation." Numbers here are provided for only women, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and URCs. (Apple explains that "Underrepresented communities (URCs)" are "groups whose representation in tech has been historically low  Female, Black, Hispanic/Latinx, Multiracial, and Indigenous peoples.") The absence of Asians and Whites is arguably telling and informative as to what Apple considers "diversity" and "inclusion."

Third, Apple divides its employees on the basis of race and sex via its "Diversity Network Associations (DNAs)." These apparently include Black@Apple, Women@Apple, and Pride@Apple. Not only does this divide employees, it also raises the specter of allocating Apple's resources on the basis of race and sex, such as when we're told that DNAs partner "with the Apple Recruiting team. The team hosts resume and interview skill-building workshops for DNA members and, when possible, informs DNAs of open roles."

Fourth, we can jump to Apple's "Racial Equity and Justice" page. By now, most readers will have been fully disabused of the notion that "equity" means "equality." While equality of opportunity is laudable, "equity" promotes equality of outcomes  which is nothing short of neo-Marxism. We are told that Apple is: "Advancing equity today. And every day." Examples include: "Apple's Racial Equity and Justice Initiative surpasses $200 million in investments," and "Apple is investing an additional $25 million in venture capital to expand support for minority businesses." One may reasonably ask to what extent this amounts to Apple expending shareholders' money on projects with a "No Whites" sign attached. See, for example: "Apple selects 15 Black- and Brown-owned businesses for first-of-its-kind Impact Accelerator." This discriminatory allocation of resources may also extend to Apple's charitable giving. See, for example: "Apple and The Conservation Fund are partnering with community organizations across the region to scale sustainable land retention and climate resilience in Black and Brown communities."

Fifth, Apple promotes its "Supplier Diversity Program." Not only does this program potentially create a risk of Apple illegally discriminating in the selection of its suppliers, it may also create a risk of Apple forcing its suppliers to discriminate in kind.

In conclusion, it is highly unlikely that this brief review of Apple's disclosures has captured all the ways Apple proudly and brazenly discriminates on the basis of race and sex. Accordingly, the National Center for Public Policy Research (NCPPR), where I work, has filed a shareholder proposal asking Apple to end its DEI initiatives. Meanwhile, whether the Trump administration chooses to put Apple to its list of worst DEI offenders remains to be seen. In the meantime, America First Legal has warned Apple's board that it is "misleading investors by concealing DEI and the related  risks."

Perhaps most importantly, all the relevant concerns about inequality and disparate outcomes can be addressed on a colorblind basis. Can you imagine if all the resources corporate America has devoted to dividing us on the basis of race and sex in the name of DEI had been directed towards charitable and bottom-line-enhancing initiatives geared towards raising the floor for all Americans on a colorblind basis, whether that be in the areas of health, wealth, education, or job opportunities?

On that point, NCPPR's Project 21, an initiative "to promote the views of African-Americans whose entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to family and commitment to individual responsibility have not traditionally been echoed by the nation's civil rights establishment," recently published commentary explaining why "Rolling Back DEI Rewards Black Americans Instead of Crippling Them." Perhaps Apple's management would benefit from reading the nine diverse perspectives on DEI set forth therein before spending another dollar on further dividing us on the basis of race and sex in the name of DEI.

Stefan Padfield is Executive Director of the Free Enterprise Project at the National Center for Public Policy Research. This was first published at RealClearMarkets.
Piers Morgan has returned to Good Morning Britain for the first time in nearly four years following his departure from ITV over his controversial comments about the Duchess of Sussex.

The TV presenter stormed off the ITV morning programme on March 8 2021 and subsequently left after saying he did not believe claims made by former Suits actress Meghan during her and Harrys explosive Oprah Winfrey interview, which became the most complained-about show in Ofcom history.

On Monday morning, he rejoined his former co-presenter Susanna Reid and Ed Balls on the show to discuss his own experiences with US president Donald Trump.

Like Ive never been away.. pic.twitter.com/z8poesNLUb  Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) March 3, 2025

Morgan interrupted Reid before she launched into the interview, saying: Hang on, are we just going to ignore the fact I havent been here for 1,453 days?

He then tried to give Reid a hug, which she initially rejected, saying: No, I dont want a hug.

After Morgan encouraged her, the pair shared an air hug and kiss, which prompted laughter from Morgan.

Former MP Balls then offered to hug Morgan, saying: We dont mind hugging.

Morgan also remarked to Reid that she had moved on so fast to a new co-presenter, to which she replied: Ive got a couple of new husbands now.

Balls assured Morgan that she did not hug him either, to which Reid responded: No, I dont do hugs, as you know.

Launching into her interview, she continued: Ive locked horns with you, Piers Morgan, on many occasions, but you have locked horns with President Trump.

Morgan went on to reveal that he had had a phone call with Mr Trump on Friday ahead of the US presidents clash with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday.

He said Mr Trump had been in an upbeat mood on the call where they had discussed numerous topics including Ukraine.

'Focus on what he does, not what he says' Long-time friend of Donald Trump, Piers Morgan, weighs in on the press conference between the US President and Volodymyr Zelensky last week. @piersmorgan says 'Trump wants peace not war.' pic.twitter.com/R2YiCnYyMw  Good Morning Britain (@GMB) March 3, 2025

The presenter said: Ive had screaming matches with him, literally, and then an hour later, were laughing and joking, doing a fun interview 

So I always think with him, focus on what he does, not what he says, or the general drama and chaos.

And secondly, understand that this is almost uniquely in modern times, a Republican president in America who wants peace, not war.

At the end of their interview, Reid and Morgan began to butt heads again as he advised Balls to stop wearing ties, as he said that in the YouTube area he was now in, ties were the enemy.

Balls replied: Piers, as you know, I always do what the editor wants.

To which Morgan quipped: Or what Susanna tells you to do, bad for her brand if you take the tie off.

She said it had nothing to do with her and pointed out the exit to him, saying: Theres a door there. Im not sure if you recognise it Piers?

Morgan stormed off the set of Good Morning Britain in 2021 after saying he did not believe claims made by Meghan during her interview with Winfrey.

The episode received 54,595 complaints and it emerged that Meghan had made a formal complaint to ITV about Morgan.

The media watchdog later ruled that Good Morning Britain was not in breach of the broadcasting code over Morgans comments but said they were potentially harmful and offensive.
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to return to the Commons on Monday for the first time since his blitz of high-stakes diplomatic action across the Atlantic and in London.

MPs will likely hear a statement from the Prime Minister following his meeting with Donald Trump in Washington DC, as well as the emergency defence summit of European leaders he convened at the weekend.

Sir Keir told European powers they must realise it is time to act, and warned they stand at a crossroads in history, following the Sunday gathering at Lancaster House, a mansion near Buckingham Palace.

He committed 1.6 billion towards helping Ukraine purchase 5,000 missiles for its defence and invited European leaders to join a coalition of the willing led by Britain and France, which is aimed at enforcing any future peace deal.

America is attempting to negotiate an end to hostilities directly with Russia but Sir Keir has insisted European countries must play a key role in enforcing a peace deal and deter Vladimir Putin from breaking it.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the UK and France are proposing a one-month ceasefire plan which they will present to the US as part of an attempt to repair relations with the Trump administration, according to French newspaper Le Figaro.

But the UK Government appeared to distance itself from suggestions that such a plan had been agreed.

A Number 10 spokeswoman said: As the Prime Minister said in his press conference, we need and want to progress with momentum and are pleased (the) summit has enabled discussions to move forward. Those discussions will continue at pace.

Armed forces minister Luke Pollard later warned of Ukrainian fears that a short pause in the fighting could allow Russian forces to regroup and attack again.

Asked about the report, he said: No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, and so I dont recognise the precise part you mentioned there.

But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine.

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau and Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky also joined the meeting.

The King met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk (Joe Giddens/PA)

The Ukrainian president received a warm welcome to 10 Downing Street on Saturday that contrasted with his fractious encounter in the Oval Office a day before.

That led to him cutting short a trip to the US in which he was supposed to sign a minerals deal with Mr Trump, exchanging rights to natural resources for further American military support.

The bust-up between the two presidents in the Oval Office that was broadcast around the world saw them  and American vice president JD Vance  talking over one another in raised voices.

Mr Trump accused Mr Zelensky of gambling with world war three and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putins invasion.

The spat exposed a raw divide between the US and its European Nato allies, who rallied to Mr Zelenskys side.

I had a productive meeting with the President of the Council of Ministers of Italy @GiorgiaMeloni to develop a joint action plan for ending the war with a just and lasting peace. No one other than Putin is interested in the continuation and quick return of the war. Therefore, it pic.twitter.com/3xCF7qTiCv  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 2, 2025

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social early on Monday, Mr Trump urged his followers to spend less time worrying about Putin and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country  So that we dont end up like Europe.

Sir Keir told the BBC he had sought to act as a bridge and end the feuding, after he held multiple phone calls with Mr Trump, Mr Zelensky and Mr Macron over the weekend.

In a post of his own on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Zelensky expressed gratitude to Europe and America for the support his country has received since the outbreak of the conflict, but stressed there could be no peace deal without security guarantees.

He wrote: As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to co-operate.

Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkiye.

Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support weve received from the United States. There has not been a day when we havent felt gratitude.

Its gratitude for the preservation of our independence  our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us  and for their own security.

As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate. Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The pic.twitter.com/inGxdO8jQz  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

What we need is peace, not endless war. And thats why we say security guarantees are the key to this.

The Prime Minister only returned from America early on Friday morning.

In his trip to Washington DC, Sir Keir appeared to win Mr Trumps backing for the Chagos Islands deal, and an indication he could stave off the threat of US tariffs on British goods, after inviting the Republican for an unprecedented second state visit to the UK.

In other developments over the weekend:

 Ukraines President Zelensky told reporters he is prepared to stand down in exchange for Nato membership, and suggested he is ready to sign the minerals deal with the US.

 Canadian prime minister Mr Trudeau will meet the King, and raise the US presidents threat to annex Canada  a Commonwealth nation  with the monarch.

 President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has said she will present a plan to rearm Europe in the coming days.

 Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off on a 2.26 billion loan scheme to help Ukraine buy weapons and fund its reconstruction after the war, which will be repaid with the profits of frozen Russian assets.

 The Liberal Democrats have called on the Government to bring forward emergency legislation on Monday in Parliament to begin the seizure of Russian assets frozen in European banks.
Stormont has voted through the Executives long-awaited programme for government.

Just 10 MLAs voted against the plan and 70 for following many hours of debate across the day.

First Minister Michelle ONeill pledged transparency over progress to achieve the targets set out.

She hailed the publication of the first programme for government (PFG) agreed by a Stormont executive since 2011 marked a significant day for the coalition in Belfast.

Meanwhile, summing up on Monday evening, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said the document does not represent the totality of the Executives ambitions, but is about prioritisation in a fiscally constrained environment.

When a draft version of the plan was published in September last year, critics expressed concern that the governance blueprint lacked tangible targets or milestones by which to measure progress on the administrations stated priorities.

First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly with the Stormont Executives programme for government outside Parliament Buildings in Belfast (David Young/PA)

The final version, which was signed off by ministers last Thursday, does include a range of targets.

Among them is goal of building more than 5,000 new social homes by 2027.

Ministers also want to see an additional 70,000 hospital patients treated as part of efforts to reduce the regions spiralling waiting lists.

The document, called Our Plan: Doing What Matters Most, aims to increase renewable electricity capacity by 40% within the current Assembly mandate, and progress a plan for speeding up the justice system.

Ministers have pledged to keep the public informed on progress by publishing annual reports.

Presenting the plan to the Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said: We will be open and transparent about the progress were making, and well also take every possible step to ensure this programme is delivering what we set out to do.

The Sinn Fein vice president, who jointly leads the Executive with Ms Little-Pengelly of the DUP, said ministers would now get on with the job of delivering.

She said while the four parties in the mandatory coalition do not agree on everything, she said they had attempted to prioritise the areas where there is agreement in the PFG.

Stormont opposition leader Matthew OToole MLA of the SDLP criticised the plan (PA)

We bring this programme for government to the house today as another step forward in our efforts to improve peoples lives, Ms ONeill told MLAs.

It is about making positive difference and making things better for people.

We will not be found wanting when it comes to doing everything we possibly can to deliver for people today, but also into the future.

The PFG sets out three key missions  people, planet and prosperity. These are linked to an underpinning cross-cutting commitment to peace.

The document also highlights nine policy areas, entitled Doing What Matters Most Today, that the coalition will prioritise in the remainder of the mandate.

These are: Grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy; Deliver more affordable, accessible, high-quality early learning and childcare; Cut health waiting times; End violence against women and girls; Better support children and young people with special educational needs; Provide more social, affordable and sustainable housing; Make communities safer; Protect Lough Neagh and the environment; and Reform and transform public services.

It has been published a little over a year after powersharing returned to Stormont after a two-year political impasse in Northern Ireland over post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Leader of the Assemblys official opposition, SDLP MLA Matthew OToole, branded the plan late, limp and listless.

He reflected on the time period since an executive last agreed a PFG.

The absence of a programme for government was both a symptom and a cause of dysfunctionality, he said.

So, in agreeing this PFG, the Executive has made progress on the shamefully low bar that was set.

However, Mr OToole said it was not enough to simply publish a document.

Despite the desire of this executive to be garlanded for simply existing, you do not get a passing grade for showing up to the exam hall, he said.

This document contains aspirations we share, but it is far short of the kind of clear, targeted plan that the people of Northern Ireland deserve after so many years of failure.

He added: This programme is better than nothing. Its a modest improvement on the draft. But its a missed opportunity. Its nowhere near good enough.

I say to the First and deputy First Minister, and indeed all ministers: Is this it?

Ms Little-Pengelly hit back at the criticism from the Opposition, saying she had looked up the SDLPs plan, describing it as 14 pages, two of which were blank, and one of which was a full page picture of Mr OToole.

It was a short document indeed  it took the SDLP some eight months to come up with that plan even though they were only negotiating with themselves, she told MLAs.

She concluded by saying the Executive is determined to deliver.
An autistic schoolgirl was significantly radicalised by a neo-Nazi she met online who she professed her love to before she was charged with terrorism offences, an inquest has heard.

Chesterfield Coroners Court heard that 16-year-old Rhianan Rudd, who died at a childrens home on May 19 2022, was deemed to hold explicit far-right extremist views.

Rhianan, who had an obsession with Adolf Hitler, was pronounced dead at Bluebell House Residential Home in Nottinghamshire when she was found with a ligature around her neck five months after her charges were dropped, a coroner was told.

Rhianan died at a childrens home in Nottinghamshire (Family handout/PA)

Paige McMahon, who was a social worker with Derbyshire County Council, met the teenager after her arrest in October 2020 and spoke to Rhianans mother, Emily Carter, who said her daughter had spoken to a man who was discovered to be on terror watch, which Rhianan had found funny, the inquest heard.

The inquest was told that Rhianan and the man spoke a lot online and would tell each other that they loved each other.

Ms McMahon carried out a section 47 inquiry to investigate the risks to the teenager and concluded that there were significant concerns relating to Rhianan being exploited, speaking to unknown males online who are linked to extremism.

The social worker also raised concerns around Rhianan self-harming and carving a swastika into her forehead, the court heard.

Ms McMahon found that Rhianans risk of exploitation would increase particularly around extremism and radicalisation without intervention, the inquest heard.

She found that Rhianan was at significant risk of being criminalised and she was likely to suffer significant harm if things do not change, and so she was made subject of a child protection plan which outlines how to keep a child safe, Ms McMahon told the coroner.

The court was also told that Ms Carters partner at the time, American Dax Mallaburn  who had previously been in prison, had a swastika tattoo but did not support these views.

Rhianan Rudd was the youngest person in the UK to be charged with terror offences (Family handout/PA)

The social worker was told that Mr Mallaburn, who lived with the family in the UK for a period of time, had nothing to do with Rhianan or her views, the inquest heard.

The social worker recorded: (Ms Carter) stated that Dax did not support these views, that he did have a swastika tattooed on his arm but this was to do with prison politics and he had changed a lot upon his release.

The inquest heard that Mr Mallaburn said he had a conversation with the extremist who Rhianan said was aged 17, but Mr Mallaburn thought he was older.

When Ms McMahon met Rhianan in March 2022, she said the girl was confident, smiling and had aspirations, before concerns were raised about her again the following month.

On April 8, Ms McMahon met with Rhianan, who was excited to start an apprenticeship and shared her desire to be a jockey, but later that month there was a concern raised by the childrens home that she had been wearing camouflage overalls with a German flag on.

The inquest continues.
Trump hits out over calls from Starmer for US guarantees on Ukraine peace

Donald Trump has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal.

Mr Trump also paused military aid to Ukraine as he seeks to pressure president Volodymyr Zelensky into committing to peace talks with Russia.

The US president, who has led the push for a peace deal with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, said the European demand for US guarantees was showing weakness to the Kremlin.

His comments came as Sir Keir Starmer restated his call for strong US backing for any European-led peacekeeping force in Ukraine.

The Prime Minister gathered leaders from Europe and Canada, including Mr Zelensky, for talks in London on Sunday.

Mr Trump ordered a pause to aid to Ukraine days after a heated Oval Office clash with Mr Zelensky.

A White House official said the US was pausing and reviewing aid to Ukraine to ensure that it is contributing to a solution, the Associated Press reported.

Mr Trump is focused on reaching a peace deal and wants Mr Zelensky committed to that goal, the official said.

The US president had criticised Mr Zelensky for suggesting a deal to end the war with Russia is still very, very far away.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer, Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US  probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia.

What are they thinking?

He later said European countries had acted very well and were good people.

Were going to make deals with everybody to get this war (finished), including Europe and European nations. And theyve acted very well. You know, theyre good people  they want to work it out, Mr Trump said at the White House.

Speaking in the Commons, Sir Keir again promised British troops and jets would be available to a peacekeeping force if a deal is done to end the war, along with a coalition of the willing from other nations.

It is right that Europe do the heavy lifting to support peace on our continent, he said.

But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing.

The Prime Minister said the proposed minerals deal between the US and Ukraine is not enough of a security guarantee on its own.

Plans for Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky to sign the minerals deal were put on hold after the Ukrainian leader left the White House early following their Oval Office bust-up.

But Mr Zelensky has since suggested he is ready to sign it.

Asked what the Ukrainian leader needed to do to restart negotiations, Mr Trump said he should be more appreciative and that he better not be right about the war going on for a long time.

Mr Zelensky later tweeted that peace is needed as soon as possible and that the people of Ukraine very much hope on US support on the path to peace.

Mr Trump had suggested the deal would effectively act as the security backstop from the US that Sir Keir has called for.

But asked in the House of Commons whether the US presence brought by that deal would in itself be enough of a security guarantee, Sir Keir said no.

The mineral deal is not enough on its own, Sir Keir said in response to a question from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, an ally of Mr Trump.

Sir Keir said Mr Trumps commitment to peace was sincere and that a security guarantee should be led by Europe but needs US backing.

Sir Keir told MPs Britain needs to lead from the front and that the European coalition of the willing has been formed to avoid moving at the speed of the most reluctant and that will be too slow.

He also cautioned against accepting a weak deal.

Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Frances president Emmanuel Macron met during the summit on Sunday (Justin Tallis/PA)

Earlier, the UK played down suggestions it supported a one-month truce in Ukraine as an initial step.

Downing Street said various options are on the table but insisted no plan has been agreed after Frances president, Emmanuel Macron, said his country and Britain are backing the prospect of a limited ceasefire.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: What Im not going to do is provide a running commentary on those options, but there are clearly a number of options on the table.

But Sir Keir is clear that any peace deal must be lasting, it must be durable, it must ensure that Ukraine has got significant defensive capabilities.

Key to the discussions, led by Britain and France, has been an insistence on the inclusion of an American backstop as part of any peacekeeping deal in order to deter future Russian aggression.

Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move discussions forward (Yui Mok/PA)

Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week for talks with his counterpart Pete Hegseth.

Germany and France meanwhile have reportedly started discussions of how 200 billion euros (165 billion) of frozen Russian assets could be used as a way to hold Moscow to a potential ceasefire deal.

Both countries have previously been opposed to seizing Russian assets, about 300 billion US dollars worth of which were frozen across the continent after the invasion in 2022.

French officials have discussed a proposal for European capitals to seize the assets if Moscow were to violate a future ceasefire deal and Germanys likely next leader Friedrich Merz has indicated he would consider backing a proposal involving seizing frozen Russian assets, the Financial Times reported.

The Foreign Secretary recently called for the UK and its European allies to move from freezing Russian assets to seizing them.

On Sunday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off on a 2.26 billion loan scheme to help Ukraine buy weapons and fund its reconstruction after the war, which will be repaid with the profits of frozen Russian assets.

Sir Keir told MPs on Monday that while the proceeds from the frozen assets are already being used, using the assets themselves is a very complicated issue.

He said: We are doing more work to look at the possibilities, along with other countries, but I am not going to pretend that that is simple or straightforward.
The UK has played down French proposals for a one-month truce in Ukraine as a minister warned a temporary pause in the fighting could give Russia time to regroup and attack again.

Armed forces minister Luke Pollard said various options are on the table but insisted no plan has been agreed after Frances president, Emmanuel Macron, said his country and Britain are backing the prospect of a limited ceasefire.

Sir Keir Starmer convened an emergency summit of European leaders over the weekend as allies scramble to find a way forward following the Oval Office row between Donald Trump, JD Vance and Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky, left, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, centre, and Frances president Emmanuel Macron met during the summit on Sunday (Justin Tallis/PA)

The Prime Minister is expected to update MPs on his meeting with the US president in Washington last week and his conversations with European counterparts on Sunday.

Speaking to broadcasters on Monday morning, Mr Pollard distanced the Government from claims that a Franco-British proposal for a one-month truce covering air, sea and attacks on critical infrastructure had been presented to the summit.

No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, and so I dont recognise the precise part you mentioned there, he told Times Radio.

But he appeared to signal that military deployments to Ukraine from European countries would be possible even without the US backstop sought by the Prime Minister and allies.

Asked whether troops could be sent to Kyiv with or without an American guarantee, he said: Military deployments are possible. But the point is, we want a durable and lasting peace.

And this is where its really important to understand the distinction between a short pause, which might be able to be achieved, but that doesnt sustain a durable peace, because theres a genuine worry by President Zelensky and the Ukrainians that a short pause will simply allow the Russian forces to reconstitute, to rearm, to regroup and then to attack again.

His message appeared at odds with that of Eleonore Caroit, a deputy in the French National Assembly for the Renaissance party and vice president of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that plans for a ceasefire in Ukraine send a very strong message and show that if we want, we can do something.

As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate. Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The pic.twitter.com/inGxdO8jQz  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

Its not despair but seeing your strongest and longest ally, the US, have the attitude that they had a few days ago is of concern of course, she said.

And this shows that were capable of making proposals and that these proposals can lead somewhere.

Downing Street said there are a number of options on the table.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: What Im not going to do is provide a running commentary on those options, but there are clearly a number of options on the table.

But Sir Keir is clear that any peace deal must be lasting, it must be durable, it must ensure that Ukraine has got significant defensive capabilities.

Key to the discussions, led by Britain and France, has been an insistence on the inclusion of an American backstop as part of any peacekeeping deal in order to deter future Russian aggression.

The US has not yet committed to providing any such security guarantee, which the UK sees as essential to ensuring a durable and lasting ceasefire.

Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move discussions forward (Yui Mok/PA)

Mr Pollard insisted that Washington remains our closest security ally and that Britain trusts intelligence sent to America will not reach the Kremlin.

Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move discussions forward, with military delegates and other officials also due to fly over to the country.

In other developments over the weekend:

 Mr Zelensky told reporters he is prepared to stand down in exchange for Nato membership, and suggested he is ready to sign the minerals deal with the US.

 Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet the King, and raise the US presidents threat to annex Canada  a Commonwealth nation  with the monarch.

 President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has said she will present a plan to rearm Europe in the coming days.

 Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off on a 2.26 billion loan scheme to help Ukraine buy weapons and fund its reconstruction after the war, which will be repaid with the profits of frozen Russian assets.

 The Liberal Democrats have called on the Government to bring forward emergency legislation on Monday in Parliament to begin the seizure of Russian assets frozen in European banks.
It is very possible Scottish troops could head to Ukraine as part of a peacekeeping force, the Scottish Secretary has said.

Last month, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said he would be willing to send UK forces personnel to Ukraine in a bid to enforce a deal with Russia that would end the war, something he said he did not consider lightly.

Speaking to journalists on Monday, Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said forces from north of the border could be included.

The Scottish Secretary spoke on Monday (Jane Barlow/PA)

Lets be very clear, it would be a peacekeeping role, thats what the Prime Minister has offered, but its also about Europe stepping up, he told Bauer Media.

Thats why the Prime Minister had that European summit with all the European leaders, Nato and President Zelensky yesterday, it was to go through what a peace looks like.

Asked about the prospect of Scottish troops heading to the country, Mr Murray said: Its very possible, but what we want to see is peace as quickly as possible, and thats what the Prime Minister is doing.

Peace, however, would have to be backed by the US, the Scottish Secretary added, to ensure that Russian President Vladimir Putin did not come back for more after a deal was struck.

The comments come after tensions flared between the US and Ukraine last week, with an Oval Office meeting including President Volodymyr Zelensky, President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance devolving into a shouting match.

After the meeting, Mr Trump said Mr Zelensky could come back when youre ready for peace.

Responding to the White House meeting, Mr Murray told the PA news agency it was important we move beyond that, adding things that are good colour and good stories are put aside.

Asked if the US can continue to be a trusted partner on the world stage, the Scottish Secretary said: It 100% is and we have to make sure it is, because their security, our security here in the UK and Europes security is dependent on that  we all work together in Nato.
Animals have adorable methods of expressing their love. While some enjoy tender cuddles, others go all out with dances. Love is universal, as these sweet, occasionally surprising, romantic gestures demonstrate. Wondering how various creatures maintain the spark? Read below to find out.

Wolves Howl To Each Other

Credit: Getty Images

Wolves' hauntingly beautiful howls is their way of saying, "I miss you!" It's like expressing their excitement and affection, much like a long-distance phone call. It helps pairs and packmates stay connected across vast distances. One wolf howls, and its mate responds, thus creating a back-and-forth serenade.

Octopuses Change Their Colors

Credit: Getty Images

Octopuses are famous for their ability to change colors, but this skill isn't just for camouflage. Some species, like the Caribbean reef octopus, display bright patterns when courting a mate. Males may even use their tentacles to gently caress their partner while shifting through mesmerizing hues. Its one of the most visually stunning love signals in the deep sea!

Penguins Presenting Pebbles

Credit: X

Penguins may not bring flowers, but they have their version of a romantic gift: carefully chosen pebbles. Males of species like the Gentoo and Adelie search for the perfect smooth stone to present to a female and offer it as a symbol of commitment. If she accepts, the two use it as part of their nest to reinforce their bond.

Fireflies Flash Light Patterns

Credit: Canva

Fireflies turn summer nights into glowing love stories with their unique flashing signals. Each species has its light pattern, and males send out sequences of blinks to catch the attention of females. If she likes what she sees, she responds with a flash, too.

Elephants Entwining Trunks

Credit: iStockphoto

A simple touch is everything for elephants. So when two elephants intertwine their trunks, it shows affection, trust, and emotional connection. This tender gesture is often compared to a human hug or a reassuring handhold. They also use their trunks to caress each others faces, a sign of deep companionship.

Pufferfish Create Sand Patterns

Credit: PBS

Pufferfish use their artistic skills to win hearts in the ocean. Male Japanese pufferfish spend days crafting intricate circular patterns in the sand, using their tiny fins to shape perfect ridges and valleys. If a female is impressed by the craftsmanship, she'll lay her eggs in the center.

Horses Nibble On Each Other

Credit: Getty Images

Horses don't just run together. They also express affection through gentle nibbles. They use their teeth to scratch each other's withers, necks, and backs, often standing head-to-tail so both partners benefit. This behavior reduces stress, builds trust, and even releases endorphins, so its a feel-good experience for both.

Chipmunks Rub Each Other's Noses

Credit: picturepathway

Chipmunks have an undeniably cute way of greeting each otherby briefly touching noses. It's a form of scent recognition that helps them identify family members and potential mates. Nose touches are a friendly way to say, Hey, I know you! before deciding whether to interact further.

Giraffes Engage In Necking Battles

Credit: Getty Images

Love is a bit of a competition for giraffes. Males engage in "necking" battles, swinging their long necks and using their ossicones to push and strike each other. The winner earns the right to court a female, often following her for days and gently rubbing his head against her back to show affection.

Kangaroos Lick Each Other

Credit: pixabay

Kangaroos often use licking to cool off in hot weather, but it's usually a sign of closeness when directed at another kangaroo. Males frequently lick females as part of their courtship, while mothers lick their joeys to clean and comfort them. This behavior is a social cue and builds trust within the group.

Sea Otters Holding Hands

Credit: Getty Images

Sea otters take cuteness to another level by holding hands while floating on their backs. This adorable habit also helps them stay together while they rest. Since otters spend much of their lives in water, floating away from a partner while sleeping would be problematic. By holding onto each other, they stay connected.

Peacocks Display Feather

Credit: Getty Images

Peacocks go all out with one of natures most spectacular fashion shows. When courting, a male fans out his dazzling iridescent tail to display over 200 shimmering feathers adorned with striking eye patterns. If the female's impressed, shell stick around. If not? He folds up his feathers and waits for another chance at love.

Seahorse Dancing Together

Credit: Getty Images

Before mating, seahorses engage in a graceful dance by mirroring each others movements and sometimes holding tails as they sway in perfect harmony. They also shift colors as part of the courtship. The grand finale is when the female transfers her eggs to the male, who carries and nurtures them until birth.

Porcupine Showers

Credit: Getty Images

Porcupine romance isn't exactly subtle. Males have an unusual way of impressing potential matesby spraying them with urine. Yes, you read that right. When a female is ready to mate, the male showers her from a distance, sometimes with surprising accuracy. If he's lucky, she'll let him get closer, and the real courtship begins with nose-rubbing and soft sounds.

Gibbons Sing To Each Other

Credit: Getty Images

Gibbons are experts at serenading their partners. Mated pairs sing duets and call out to each other in complex harmonies that can be heard for miles. Every couple has their own melody, and their duet is as personal as a human love song. Gibbons also groom each other, cuddle, and spend most of their lives as devoted pairs.
By Adam Jourdan, Lisandra Paraguassu, Eduardo Baptista and Michael Martina

BUENOS AIRES/BRASILIA/BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Argentina's libertarian President Javier Milei came to office in late 2023 slamming China as a communist "assassin" and threatening to weaken ties with the Asian nation. Instead, exports to China including soy and lithium jumped 15% in his first year.

The pragmatic U-turn by a natural U.S. ally underscores a challenge for President Donald Trump in resource-rich South America, where booming commerce in recent years has boosted China's influence.

Trump is looking to shake up global trade and get partners to promote U.S. interests using threats and trade tariffs. He has already pushed for concessions from Colombia, Panama and Mexico, while Brazil is in the crosshairs of new trade tariffs on steel.

Proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods are due to take effect on Tuesday, with an extra 10% duty on Chinese goods.

But around South America, half a dozen officials, diplomats and trade experts said that China's huge and growing trade lead dulled the impact of Trump's measures - a warning sign of the potential limits more broadly of a punitive approach in a world where the United States has a growing number of economic rivals.

A senior Brazilian diplomat close to leftist President Luiz Inacio 'Lula' da Silva said Brazil's economy was not dependent on the United States, citing the country's $30 billion trade surplus with China last year as far more economically important.

He said Trump's trade tariff threats - coming after years of "neglect" from the United States - would push countries to look for less risky alternatives like China, Europe or the BRICS group including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Beijing, meanwhile, was "a pragmatic partner," and the Chinese "come here to do business."

Driven by commodities giants Brazil, Chile, Peru and Argentina, South America's exports to China have more than doubled in the past decade, while shipments to the United States have only inched up, a Reuters analysis of trade data show.

That's made China's huge market invaluable for regional leaders grappling with slow growth and high indebtedness, and strengthened Beijing's soft power in the region, even with governments not ideologically aligned.

'BULLY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD'

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in comments in late January dismissed the risk of pushing South American countries like Colombia more towards China as "absurd", pointing to quick wins the administration has scored.

Tariff threats brought Mexico to the negotiation table on trade and to commit troops to reinforce the border, while a pledge to take the key Panama Canal trade route by force got that country to exit China's Belt and Road infrastructure plan. Colombia and the United States struck a deal after a block on deportation flights took the pair to the brink of a trade war.

Ryan Berg, a director at bipartisan Washington think-tank the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Trump was actually giving Latin America more attention, with Spanish-speaking Rubio going there on his first overseas trip. But a balance between neglect and threat was needed.

The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Democratic ranking member of the House select committee on China, told Reuters Washington should avoid becoming "the bully in the neighborhood."

"Because, you know what happens to bullies. People stand up to bullies," he said. "And they do so in ways that could be very detrimental to our long-term national security interests."

BOOMING COMMODITIES EXPORTS

Across South America, China's trade lead has widened, driven by grains and key electrification metals copper and lithium. Washington remains ahead in Central America, but its lead has been trimmed.

A decade ago, copper giant Peru's largest trade partner was the United States. Now it is China, by far. The Asian country gobbles up Peru's supply of copper and has built a massive port on the country's coast to turbo-charge bilateral trade.

"The impact for Peru would be minimal," said Peru's former economy minister Jose Arista referring to potential U.S. trade tariffs. He cited Peru's free trade agreement with the United States and the make-up of the Andean country's exports.

Even in Argentina where libertarian Milei is a staunch U.S. ally, China's draw is clear. China is the top market for Argentine soybeans and beef, while it bought almost a third of the country's lithium exports last year.

A close adviser to Milei said late last year that the South American country had no problem working with China if it was in Argentina's best interests.

Colombia does have far closer trade ties with the United States but elevated diplomatic relations with China to a "strategic partnership" at the end of 2023.

Panama, meanwhile, saw exports to China surge far above those to the United States between 2021-2023 before a key copper mine closure led to a sharp drop off last year. Tensions are still simmering with United States over the canal.

'A GIFT TO THE CHINESE'

China has natural advantages as a trade partner for South America, despite the historical closeness and cultural overlap between the United States and its southern neighbors.

The relationship is not clouded by challenges over migration flows, crime or narcotics, while China's developmental stage means it naturally needs more of the commodities South America has to offer.

The Chinese foreign ministry, in a rare rebuke of Washington's policies in the region after Rubio's Latin America trip, issued a statement criticizing the United States for sowing "discord" between China and Latin American countries and pointed to an "irreversible" trend in deeper cooperation between the region and China.

Li Xing, a professor at the Guangdong Institute for International Strategies, said Trump's tough approach would benefit China as it would make countries hedge their bets

"The moment there is chaos among (U.S.) allies, that's good for China," he told Reuters.

(Reporting by Adam Jourdan, Lisandra Paraguassu, Eduardo Baptista and Michael Martina; Additional reporting by Marco Aquino and Lucinda Elliott; Writing by Adam Jourdan; Editing by Claudia Parsons)
A collage of people on a bus including celebrities Julia Bracewell and Mathilde Wesendonck

A couple were arrested at Miami International Airport for allegedly attacking airline staff  with one even throwing coffee in a workers face  while trying to force their way onto a flight to Mexico.

Rafael Seirafe-Novaes and Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia were running late for their flight to Cancun on Sunday when they got into a heated altercation with airport staff, the Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office told NBC Miami.

https://twitter.com/i/status/1896286995141267919

During the fray, one of the suspects threw a coffee in the face of an American Airlines employee, according to officials.

Rafael Seirafe-Novaes and Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia were arrested at Miami International Airport for allegedly attacking airline staff. Facebook/ONLY in DADE

Beatriz Rapoport De Campos Maia was charged with two counts of battery and trespassing. Miami Dade Corrections

Rafael Seirafe-Novaes was charged with resisting an officer without violence and trespassing. Miami Dade Corrections

Video of the incident obtained by NBC shows several cop cars responding to the tarmac next to American Flight 2494 just before takeoff.

About six Miami-Dade sheriffs deputies responded to the fight, according to the outlet.

Seirafe-Novaes was charged with resisting an officer without violence and trespassing, while Maia was charged with two counts of battery and trespassing.

During the fray, one of the suspects threw a coffee in the face of an American Airlines employee, according to officials. Facebook/ONLY in DADE

American Airlines told CBS News Miami: Acts of violence are not tolerated by American Airlines and we are committed to working closely with law enforcement in their investigation.

An airport spokesperson told NBC that the sheriffs office is handling the investigation.
Chinese culinary course launched in Myanmar to mark 75th anniversary of Myanmar-China diplomatic ties

Xinhua) 09:35, March 03, 2025

YANGON, March 1 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese culinary course has been launched in Taunggyi, Shan state, to mark the 75th anniversary of Myanmar-China diplomatic relations, according to Myanmar's Ministry of Hotels and Tourism on Saturday.

Speaking at the event, Shan state Chief Minister U Aung Aung said that the course was an opportunity to learn Chinese cooking methods, which are an important part of Chinese culture.

With an increasing number of Chinese visitors, the ability to cook Chinese foods professionally will become more important in the food service sector, a key part of the tourism industry, he said.

He expressed confidence that the trainees would gain valuable knowledge and skills about Chinese cuisine, urging them to study systematically, share their expertise, and apply what they have learned for greater benefits.

Deputy Minister for Hotels and Tourism U Phyo Zaw Soe said that the course was launched to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Myanmar-China diplomatic relations.

He said that hotels, restaurants and individuals interested in cooking and selling Chinese cuisine in Myanmar could attract more Chinese tourists by preparing high-quality dishes and providing better services.

The course will not only enhance the quality of service for Chinese tourists but also create valuable opportunities for local people who wish to build a livelihood by professionally cooking Chinese dishes, he added.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Why conservatives don't jump on the pretend support for Ukraine bandwagon By Rachel Alexander

web posted March 3, 2025 The divide between Americans who blindly state they "support Ukraine" (whatever that means) and Americans who are skeptical and see the Russia-Ukraine war as far more nuanced got more heated due to last week's testy exchange in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The conflict is not as simple as "I stand with Ukraine" or "you like Vladimir Putin," despite the left's false dichotomies and false framing of the argument. It's the same type of logical fallacy as asking someone, "Have you stopped beating your wife yet?" While the left thinks it looks good in theory to virtue signal that you support Ukraine, it's not that black and white. Just because Putin is a bad actor doesn't mean Zelenskyy should be blindly supported; while he may not appear to be as evil as Putin, he certainly is no angel. He's canceled elections and is now ruling as a dictator. Ukrainian MP Oleksandr Dubinsky called for the impeachment of Zelenskyy after the botched White House visit. He said Zelenskyy has failed in foreign policy, causing Ukraine's isolation from allies, and is engaging in authoritarian rule. Throwing more and more money that we don't have at the problem hasn't solved it; the war has continued and more troops are dying. Russia is receiving technology and tools from China and troops from North Korea, helping Putin continue the war indefinitely with no end in sight. In a perfect world, Putin wouldn't have been an aggressor. But the world isn't the lofty ivory tower that elitist leftists like to pretend, and efforts to remove Putin haven't worked. And even if they did, would a far worse hardliner take over? Congress hasn't required accountability for how the money sent to Ukraine is spent. Unlike the funds sent from Europe, which are in the form of loans, we're just handing Ukraine the money free. The U.S. has provided Ukraine nearly $183 billion so far. The left conveniently glosses over the history that led up to this war. NATO pushed to allow countries into its alliance that were somewhat hostile to Russia and located nearby, provoking Russia. The U.S. initially told Russia it would not expand NATO to the east, but then reneged on that under President Bill Clinton, who decided to expand NATO to the east as far as Ukraine. Jeffrey Sachs, a professor at Columbia University and advisor to three United Nations Secretaries-General, said during a speech in February to the European Parliament that Russia had no intention of expanding until Ukraine's neutral leader Viktor Yanukovych was forced out in 2014 with the assistance of the Obama administration. In 2021, Putin wanted the Biden administration to negotiate and back off on the issue of expanding NATO to include Ukraine, but Biden ignored the outreach, Sachs said. Shortly after the war started, Sachs said Putin tried to get Ukraine to commit to neutrality, which would have ended the war, but the Biden administration talked Zelenskyy out of it. Similarly, the legendary George Kennan, known for his diplomacy and expertise regarding Russia during the 20th century, warned in the late 1990s that expanding NATO would provoke Russia. He said since a separate, independent Ukraine could "be maintained, in the last analysis, only by force," the U.S. should not attempt to force Ukrainian independence. If the clash happened, he recommended "a composing of the differences along the lines of a reasonable federalism." Biden should have known better. His own CIA director, William J. Burns, while serving as a political officer in the U.S. Embassy in Moscow in 1995, warned that "hostility to early NATO expansion is almost universally felt across the domestic political spectrum here." While it appears sympathetic on the surface to "support Ukraine," how is it sympathetic to help ensure that much of an entire generation of young men is wiped out? Last year, a confidential Ukrainian estimate placed the number of their soldiers' deaths at 80,000, and estimates of the number of Russian troops killed ranges from 90,000 to 854,000. These leftists  many who actively opposed the Vietnam War and draft  have no problem sending young Ukrainian and Russian men to their likely deaths. While many of us think the Vietnam War would have been winnable if Congress would have authorized enough troops as the generals requested, Congress failed to do so. In contrast, there has never been any credible evidence that sending more money to Ukraine will result in victory. Even RINO Senator Lindsey Graham backed off his previous support for Ukraine, stating after the Oval Office confrontation that Zelenskyy needs to change or resign. Where is the leftist support for other countries at war? Nearly half of the world's approximately 195 countries are in some type of violent conflict currently. Ever see any African flags in the Democrats' profiles? Of course not. Could this be because Ukrainians are white  in fact some surveys rate them the most beautiful nationality in the world. But don't expect the minority leftists who rant about how society cares more about white victims than minority victims to desert their hypocrisy. Joy Reid, who was recently fired from hosting her show on MSNBC because no one watched it, frequently complained about "missing white woman syndrome," whining that the media covers the tragic disappearance and demise of white women like YouTuber Gabby Petito, but fails to cover similar sad stories about minority women. Hypocritically, Reid doesn't cover those deaths either. Thankfully, the grownups are now in charge, and Trump will ensure the war winds down shortly. If Biden hadn't gotten dementia, maybe he wouldn't have taken such an aggressive approach with NATO towards Putin. But the Democrats cared too much about keeping their puppet in place. So now they're stuck blindly slapping up Ukrainian flags in order to hide and cover for Biden's mistake, with the blood of tens of thousands of young men on their hands.

Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, Enter Stage Right and other publications. Home
Courtesy of Lexi Brigantti Dave proposes to Lexi; Caricature artwork by Damion Dunn

A man popped the question via a caricature.

Dave, 28, took his girlfriend, Lexi, 27, on a date to the Florida State Fair on Sunday, Feb. 16. Lexi thought they were just there to enjoy the various food, rides and games, but in reality Dave had been planning an artistic proposal.

The couple  who met in 2014 when they were both working at Surf Style in Clearwater, Florida  sat down next to each other and smiled for artist Damion Dunn, who would create a caricature portrait of them. Based on a video recently posted by Dunn on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, this wasn't the first time Dave and Lexi had posed for him. The pair visited him in 2022 and 2023, but their 2025 visit would take their relationship to the next level.

In a video with more than 450,000 views shared by Lexi via TikTok on Feb. 18, Dunn hands the couple their drawing. In the piece, Dave is down on one knee proposing to Lexi with a giant diamond ring.

"When the artist showed the drawing, I thought it was so cute but I was also so confused as well like, 'Were not engaged yet,' " Lexi tells PEOPLE. "I saw my best friend and her husband recording too and I was thinking to myself, 'Is what I think thats going to happen, happening right now?' ''

Shortly after Lexi saw the artwork, Dave recreated the scene by dropping down on one knee and pulling out a red rose ring box from his pocket. When he asked her to marry him, Lexi instantly began crying and nodding her head.

"When he got down on one knee it finally clicked to me that, 'OMG this is happening!' " Lexi says.

Related: To All the Boys I Loved Before IRL: Woman Gave Out 5 Love Letters, 1 Recipient Became Her Husband (Exclusive)

After Dave slipped the diamond ring on Lexi's finger, the duo hugged and kissed each other.

Dave had been planning the surprise for about a month.

"He messaged me about a month before the fair started, asking if I would be down to help him propose to his girlfriend," Dunn explained on Instagram. "Not only was I honored. I also felt excited and a little nervous to be a part of his proposal. I wanted [to] give them something nice as well as something worth his trust in me."

Courtesy of Lexi Brigantti Dave proposes to Lexi

Dunn included nods to the couple's relationship and previous caricatures into their new artwork, such as the date of their first date  Sept. 15, 2017  next to the date of their engagement written in heart frames hanging from the top of the piece.

"I had a feeling it was coming soon because the day before my best friend, Aryn, insisted we got our nails done and helped guide me which color to pick, but I did not think it was going to happen at the fair the way it happened," Lexi says.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The bride-to-be posted a second video on TikTok of the proposal, this time with the audio and not just music. After Dave and Lexi's post-proposal embrace, Dunn joked, "Are you guys gonna pay cash or card?"

"He was for sure being funny! We have been getting a drawing from him since 2022 and thats his sense of humor that makes us keep coming back to him," Lexi says. "I thought it added to the proposal as well because that fits our relationship so perfect."

"I just hope you guys continue to come back to me so we can continue the tradition," Dunn said on Instagram. "Im trying to draw those future babies ."

Read the original article on People
By Jonathan Allen

NEW YORK (Reuters) -As U.S. President Donald Trump seeks to reduce the size of the federal workforce through rapid-fire mass layoffs and buyouts, some Democratic governors are courting the newly unemployed to come to work for state governments instead.

On Monday, New York filled digital billboards in Washington's Union Station encouraging former federal government employees to consider some of the state's 7,000 public-sector job openings. It featured a cartoon of a pointing Statue of Liberty alongside the slogan: "New York Wants You."

Hawaii is fast-tracking recruitment. Maryland and New Mexico are convening job fairs.

Trump, a Republican who returned to the White House in January, has said the executive branch of the U.S. government, which had about 2.3 million civilian employees as of September 2024, is bloated and inefficient. But where Trump sees waste, some Democratic leaders see a talent pool of workers with specialized skills.

The majority of those employees are based outside Washington: in regional offices that deal with taxes or weather forecasts or Social Security benefits administration, in Veterans Affairs clinics and regional prosecutors' offices, and in national parks and wildlife reserves.

Trump's attempts to reduce the size of the payroll, often in a manner seen as haphazard, have caused anxiety and alarm. At least one U.S. district judge has ruled that some of the mass firings, believed to number in the tens of thousands, may be illegal.

"These are essential jobs requiring many years of specialized experience done by real people with bills to pay and families to support," New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, said at a press conference on Monday after meeting with some people who had recently lost their federal jobs.

"They should be commended for their service, not mocked by the president and handed a pink slip," she added.

Hochul said New York's public sector had shrunk because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the state was in need of technologists, engineers, attorneys, healthcare workers and educators, among other roles.

The White House declined to encourage the recruitment efforts by Hochul and other governors on Monday.

"Leave it to the failed New York State bureaucracy to stack their payrolls with more bureaucrats at the expense of the abused taxpayers of New York," Harrison Fields, a Trump spokesperson, wrote in an email. "Growing the public sector is not President Trump's definition of job creation."

Most federal employees are in labor unions, a coalition of which has sued Trump's Office of Personnel Management for compelling government departments to fire thousands of probationary employees who have been either recently hired or promoted.

On Thursday, U.S. District Judge William Alsup sided with the unions and issued a temporary order to OPM to cease attempting to fire probationary employees in other departments, saying the office had exceeded the authority given to it by Congress.

JARGON TRANSLATION

Hochul said New York would support any illegally fired workers who wanted to return to their federal jobs.

In Maryland, which neighbors Washington, Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, has ordered state agencies to brace for an influx of former federal employees and to expedite hiring for "hard to fill" positions. He will also encourage some laid-off workers to consider second careers as Maryland teachers.

Hawaii Governor Josh Green, a Democrat, ordered the fast-tracking of credential checks for some federal workers and for state agencies to make a conditional job offer within 14 days of receiving an individual's application.

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, has created a jobs portal for former federal workers.

At least one Republican has also made provisions for the newly unemployed.

Governor Glenn Youngkin is encouraging Virginia residents laid off by Trump to leave public service behind and join the private sector via the "Virginia Has Jobs" portal, which includes resume tips for translating government jargon into corporate jargon.

(Reporting by Jonathan Allen in New York; editing by Donna Bryson and Bill Berkrot)
Several Utah cops are facing disciplinary action after a trainee officer was caught using a utility knife to cut a dead homeless man  as others watched on and laughed, according to authorities.

Newly released bodycam footage showed the officers using the knife on Jason Lloyd, 47, after he was found dead who in a tent in August, the Salt Lake City Police Department announced Friday.

The video shows a trainee officer on only his 11th shift  identified by FOX 13 as Dakota Smigel  being given the knife to pop multiple blisters on Mr. Lloyds right arm, the department said after an investigation.

Several Utah police officers are facing disciplinary action after getting caught laughing while making a trainee officer cut the skin of a dead homeless man. Salt Lake City Police

Jason Lloyd, 47, was found dead in a tent in August in Salt Lake City. FOX13

I feel like youre pranking me, Smigel was heard telling the others leading him to the body. Why are you smirking like that? he asked  telling the others: You guys suck.

Despite those concerns, Smigel was seen cutting into Lloyds skin, while other officers could be heard laughing in the background, the gruesome footage showed. The trainee was then told by the others to leave details about the knife out of his police report, his department confirmed.

Our investigation found that some of the conduct in this case was unprofessional, discourteous, disrespectful and offensive, said Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown.

Seven employees were placed on administrative leave for the incident  with all but one already back at work, the department said.

The lone officer to quit, Mark Keep, resigned after being found to have violated eight department policies, according to Fox 13.

Smigel was judged to have reasonable grounds to believe his actions were allowed and approved because he was so new to the job and following instructions of seniors who were training him, the department said.

One of those officers, Paul Mullenax, returned to work after a three-day suspension for violating four department policies, the outlet said. Another, Michelle Peterson, received a warning for violating two department policies.

The cops told trainee officer Dakota Smigel to use a box cutter to cut blisters on Lloyds arm. Salt Lake City Police

Police officers were seen smirking and laughing in the body camera footage from the incident. Salt Lake City Police

The violations included standard of conduct violations, death investigation procedure violations, and report preparation violations, police said.

This behavior does not align with the professionalism and integrity we demand as a police department, Chief Brown said.

I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Lloyds family. Every person we encounter deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Our decorum during death investigations must never again fall short of our core values as it did at times in this case.

The trainee was told to leave details about the box cutter out of his police report. Salt Lake City Police

Lloyds family said the newly released footage and feel like they are grieving all over again.

When Jason passed away, we werent able to have an open casket, we werent able to have that closure that you usually get when a loved one passes, Lloyds sister, Heather Fisher, told The Salt Lake Tribune.

And now our closure is seeing him on a bodycam video in a tent being treated that way, she said.

Were frustrated because this investigation has been going on since August and, as his family, we had no idea. We had no idea he was treated poorly. We had no idea he was disrespected We feel like were grieving all over again, Fisher said.

Seven employees were placed on administrative leave after the incident  and all but one are already back to work. Salt Lake City Police

[Lloyd] was homeless, but he was still loved, Fisher added tearfully.

Since this incident, SLCPD employees have received additional training on professionalism, decorum, and ethics, the police department said.

The Salt Lake County District Attorneys Office said on Feb. 14 that it would not be pursuing criminal charges for any of the officers, according to cops.
Michael Loccisano/Getty Karla Sofia Gascon, Marisa Gutierrez and their daughter Victoria backstage before a screening of 'Emilia Perez' on September 30, 2024 in New York City.

Karla Sofia Gascon has been married to her wife, Marisa Gutierrez, with whom she has a daughter named Victoria, for years.

According to The New York Times, Gascon and Gutierrez first met as teenagers. The Spanish actress has kept details about their relationship mostly private, revealing in a December 2024 episode of the A solas con podcast that she has known Gutierrez for over 30 years.

Gascon and Gutierrez eventually wed and welcomed their only child, Victoria Gutierrez, in 2011. The actress' wife and daughter have attended industry events with her in the past, and a source told PEOPLE that Gascon has plans to be at the Oscars amid the backlash she's currently facing.

After starring in Mexican telenovelas, Gascon played the titular character in the 2024 musical film Emilia Perez. Despite being the first openly transgender actor nominated at the 97th Academy Awards in the Best Actress category, Gascon has come under fire after controversial social media posts were resurfaced criticizing Muslim culture, George Floyd, Selena Gomez and diversity.

In February 2025, Gascon spoke with CNN en Espanol, declaring herself "not a racist" and claiming she didn't write certain posts. Following several apologies and absences from award shows, Gascon is set to attend the Oscars on March 2.



So who is Karla Sofia Gascon's wife? Here's everything to know about Marisa Gutierrez and the daughter they share.

Gascon and Marisa met as teenagers

Michael Buckner/GG2025/Penske Media via Getty Karla Sofia Gascon and Marisa Gutierrez during the 82nd Annual Golden Globes held at The Beverly Hilton on January 5, 2025 in Beverly Hills, California.

Gascon and Marisa met at a nightclub in Spain when they were 19 and 18, respectively, though it's unclear when the couple married.

"Weve obviously shared a big chunk of our lives together, but Ive never deceived her about who I was," the Golden Globe nominee told The New York Times in November 2024, referring to her decision to have gender-affirming surgery in 2018.

There was a period when Gascon and Marisa weren't together. In her 2018 book, Karsia, Una Historia Extraordinaria, the actress detailed her relationship with a female politician in Mexico, per Rolling Stone.

Gascon and Marisa welcomed their daughter Victoria in 2011

Karla Sofia Gascon/Instagram Karla Sofia Gascon with her wife Marisa Gutierrez and their daughter Victoria.

Before transitioning, Gascon conceived a child with Marisa. Victoria was born in December 2011  and the actress almost missed her birth due to filming a telenovela in Mexico. According to Gascon, production wanted her to stay on set instead of taking a leave of absence but she returned home.

"I arrived [in Spain] on December 17, kissed [Marisa's] belly, and said, 'You can be born now,' and [Victoria] was born that night," Gascon recalled on the A solas con podcast.

Gascon and her wife are raising Victoria to be self-sufficient

Karla Sofia Gascon/Instagram Karla Sofia Gascon with her wife Marisa Gutierrez and their daughter Victoria.

In January 2020, Gascon spoke with Infobae Mexico about how she and Marisa parent their daughter.

"We understand each other when it comes to raising [Victoria]. The truth is that we don't treat her like a boy or a girl, but like a person," the actress told the outlet.

Gascon continued, "We treat her like a human being, not even as something of our own, we always saw her as a human being that we were going to have to help to be self-sufficient in this world."

As a mother, Gascon is admittedly protective. This informed her decision to deactivate her X account in January 2025 after being "threatened with death, insulted, abused and harassed to the point of exhaustion" on social media following her most recent controversies.

"I have a wonderful daughter to protect, whom I love madly and who supports me in everything," Gascon wrote in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.

Gascon's wife and daughter visited her while she was filming Emilia Perez

Karla Sofia Gascon/Instagram Karla Sofia Gascon with her daughter Victoria.

Apart from sharing insights about her family during interviews, Gascon often posts about Marisa and Victoria, especially during the filming of Emilia Perez in Europe.

While shooting the movie in France, the actress took her wife and daughter along to Paris, where they stopped by the Eiffel Tower and visited the Louvre Museum.

Gascon also brought Victoria to see the filming of the musical comedy up close. "My little one accompanied me to work ," she captioned a behind-the-scenes photo of them in Spanish.

Marisa and Victoria are often by Gascons side at industry events

Charley Gallay/Getty Marisa Gutierrez, Karla Sofia Gascon and Victoria Gutierrez attend W Magazine's Annual Best Performances Party on January 4, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

Both Marisa and Victoria have supported Gascon's newfound Hollywood success. They were present alongside the actress at the New York Film Festival screening of Emilia Perez in September 2024 and the film's Golden Globes pre-party in January 2025.

Shortly after, Gascon and Marisa made their red carpet debut at the 82nd annual Golden Globes.

Read the original article on People
Munitions used in French artillery guns are pictured in a workshop in Tarbes, southwestern France, in April 2023. - Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty Images

The stocks of European defense companies soared Monday as investors anticipate massive increases in military spending by governments in the region amid its growing rift with the United States.

The STOXX Europe Total Market Aerospace & Defense index had surged almost 7.9% by early afternoon local time, which put it on course for its biggest one-day jump in about five years. The index has risen more than 30% so far this year.

Europe is confronting a worrying new reality: that the US, the continents longtime ally and security guarantor, may not help it defend itself in a future war.

Americas new approach was further underscored Friday during an explosive meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House. Ukraine, on the doorstep of the European Union, has been pushing for firm security guarantees from the US in any peace deal brokered between itself and Russia, but Trump has so far refused to provide them.

As a result, investors in European defense companies have been expecting larger orders, aimed at beefing up the regions defenses.

The shares of Germanys Rheinmetall were trading up 12.9% by early afternoon local time Monday, while those of BAE Systems in the United Kingdom had jumped 14.3% and Italys Leonardo 12.1%.

Urgent need to re-arm

On Sunday, government leaders from the EU, UK and Canada met at a summit in London, focused on ways to support Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

We urgently have to re-arm Europe, Ursula von der Leyen, the head of the EUs executive, told reporters on the sidelines of the meeting. After a long time of under-investment, it is now of utmost importance to step up the defense investment for a prolonged period of time.

Later this week, EU leaders will gather for a special meeting to discuss their support for Ukraine, as well as the blocs own security.

EU nations spent 1.9% of their combined gross domestic product on defense last year. French President Emmanuel Macron said in a newspaper interview Sunday that the bloc should aim to spend around 3% or 3.5% of GDP, and the secretary general of the NATO alliance has recently argued for European milit ary spending of north of 3%.

Holger Schmieding, chief economist at Berenberg, a bank, said in a note Monday that European NATO members can still hope for the US to defend them against Russia in a potential future conflict but they can no longer be 100% sure.

Trust between the two sides of the Atlantic has been damaged, he wrote, adding that Europe and Germany in particular must  and very likely will  raise defense spending for themselves as well as for Ukraine.

Olesya Dmitracova contributed to this article.

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PhanuwatNandee/istockphoto

All-American Noshes

If you've ever wondered if your neighbors near and far have the same culinary cravings as you  wonder no more. E-conolight, an indoor/outdoor lighting company pondered the same question and decided to look into it. To do so, the company identified more than 100 dishes people classify as comfort foods, then used Google Trends to identify which the residents of each state and Washington, D.C. searched for most. There are predictable outcomes in the results from 2020, as well as some surprises.

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Alabama: Cheese Grits

Alabamans searched for this feel-good dish typically made with hominy or stone-ground cornmeal, cheese, spices, and more.

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Alaska: Cinnamon Rolls

Almost unbelievably, this is the only time those ooey-gooey swirls of pillowy dough, sugary icing, and spicy cinnamon appear on this list. Alaskans know a thing or two about carb-heavy goodness, apparently  E-conolight noted in other parts of its survey that the main and side dishes most searched for by residents of The Last Frontier were biscuits and gravy and sourdough bread, respectively.

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Arizona: Chicken and Waffles

This comfort food favorite is going to show up a couple more times on this list, as it's not just residents of the Grand Canyon State that craved it the most during lockdown. In fact, it was the third most searched comfort food in the United States, according to E-conolight.

Kathy Burns/istockphoto

Arkansas: Chicken and Dumplings

Proving that chicken and, well, carb-laden things are a popular item to eat when you need a little pick-me-up for the soul, denizens of this Southern state (and one other  can you guess which?) searched for chicken and dumplings over all other comfort foods in 2020.







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California: Grilled Cheese

Cheesy breaded goodness was the most searched for comfort food in the United States, topping E-conolight's research in California and six other states.

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Colorado: Chili

Nothing warms up a snowy and frigid day better than a bowl of chili, and that's probably what Colorado's residents were banking on when they searched for this comfort food over all others. Chili also made a showing in two other states  read on to find out where.

AimeeLeeStudios/istockphoto

Connecticut: Strawberry Shortcake

In the realm of comfort foods, this one at least has fruit on it, so maybe residents of Connecticut were just trying to keep it a little healthier? Somewhat surprisingly, this wasn't the only state where strawberry shortcake was popular. Hint: A New England neighbor's residents also craved this berry-laden dessert.

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Delaware: Fried Chicken

Residents of Delaware were among four states craving some good, old-fashioned fried chicken. This comfort food, in fact, was the second-most-searched in the nation, just behind grilled cheese.

EzumeImages/istockphoto

District of Columbia: Chicken Lo Mein

Throwing us for something of a loop, D.C. is the only area of the country searching for this particular dish. Perhaps when The Washington Post noted in a December 2020 article that "American Chinese food is the best American comfort food," it was merely expressing the sentiment of its nearest readers.

bhofack2/istockphoto

Florida: Corned Beef and Hash

Honestly, we have no idea what to make of this development. Did we expect to see key lime pie or conch fritters? Sure. But corned beef and hash in the Sunshine State? Mind. Blown.

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Georgia: Fried Chicken

Another state all aboard the fried chicken train, which leaves two to go. Both are in the South, but which states will they be?

Arx0nt/istockphoto

Hawaii: Cheesecake

Residents of the Aloha State were craving sugar combined with cream cheese, egg, butter, and graham cracker crumbs. Who could hoopaapaa (translation: argue) with that?

LauriPatterson/istockphoto

Idaho: Pot Roast

Given that the Gem State grows more potatoes than any other, and that potatoes are a classic part of pot roast, this one seems like a natural fit.

LauriPatterson/istockphoto

Illinois: Grilled Cheese

The second state to declare love of cheese and bread via Google searches, and four more to go.

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Indiana: Biscuits and Gravy

You knew biscuits and gravy would show up somewhere, right? But did you guess it would be the Hoosiers searching for it? Indiana was the only state where this classic comfort dish made a showing.

StephanieFrey/istockphoto

Iowa: Monkey Bread

If you've had it, you know that this mass of dough, brown sugar, cinnamon, and raisins is delicious, but we were still surprised to see it as a top search in any state.

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Kansas: Baked Potato Soup

E-conolight noted that it "saw some unique comfort foods with surprising statewide popularity," and named this pairing of state and soup as an example. We can't argue  didn't see this one coming.

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Kentucky: Chicken and Dumplings

Just like Arkansas peeps, Kentuckians apparently have a love for this dish. And this concludes the chicken and dumplings portion of this list  you won't see it show up again.

rudisill/istockphoto

Louisiana: Fried Chicken

Another Southern state with a love of fried chicken? No surprises here.

Related: Chef Secrets for Crisp, Juicy Fried Chicken

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Maine: Chocolate Chip Cookies

Frankly, we're surprised it took this long for a classic cookie to show up on this list, and we're doubly surprised Mainers were the only folks searching for chocolate chip cookies en masse.

Related: Walmart's Chocolate Chip Cookies Beat Top Brands in Taste Test'

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Maryland: Grilled Cheese

Another state, another love of grilled cheese. Maybe it's the fact that you can do so much to make this simple sandwich more remarkable? At any rate, three grilled cheese states down, three to go.

DebbiSmirnoff/istockphoto

Massachusetts: Strawberry Shortcake

Just like its neighbor to the south, Bay Staters love some comforting strawberry shortcake. Coincidence or conspiracy?

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Michigan: Chicken Noodle Soup

Given that residents of the Wolverine State saw more than their fair share of COVID-19 cases in 2020, we're gonna chalk this one up to the purported medicinal properties of this dish.

Yulia_Kotina/istockphoto

Minnesota: Swedish Meatballs

Factor in the number of descendants of Swedish immigrants living in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and there's no surprise here.

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Mississippi: Jambalaya

Jambalaya might be thought of as a quintessentially New Orleans dish, but given the relative proximity of the two states and the amount of shrimp processed in the Magnolia State, again  no huge revelation here.

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Missouri: Baked Potato Soup

Yes, Mizzou residents shared a love of this comforting soup with their neighbors to the east. The two states share Kansas City, so why not a soup, too?

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Montana: Tomato Soup

Nothing pairs with tomato soup quite like a grilled cheese sandwich, so we're guessing Montana residents already know a thing or two about how to make a great cheesy sandwich and have moved their comfort food search tendencies on to this classic soup.

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Nebraska: Chicken Noodle Soup

Not sure there are any meaningful conclusions to be drawn here, but here's a fun fact: A doctor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha once conducted lab tests to see if the soup's reputation as a common cold folk remedy was deserved.

LauriPatterson/istockphoto

Nevada: Chicken and Waffles

The second of three states that searched for this dish over all others, Nevada residents apparently know there's no reason to settle for one comfort food when you can have two (with syrup).

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New Hampshire: Stuffing

The Granite State is one of two that searched for stuffing above all other comfort foods. The other? Here's a hint: It's another state in the Northeast.

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New Jersey: Grilled Cheese

Jersey residents are the first of the final three states to search for this mega-popular comfort food above all others.

vm2002/istockphoto

New Mexico: Chili

Just like their colder neighbors to the north in Colorado, those living in the Land of Enchantment crave chili above all else.

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New York: Grilled Cheese

Another state, another point on the comfort food scoreboard for grilled cheese (and a note  this dish won't show up again until near the end of this list).

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North Carolina: Chicken and Waffles

Given that Travel + Leisure once named Raleigh, North Carolina, as one of "Americas Favorite Cities for Brunch," perhaps it's not too surprising that residents here searched for chicken and waffles above all other comfort foods.

bhofack2/istockphoto

North Dakota: Mashed Potatoes

Sure, mashed potatoes might seem a little boring on the surface, but given all the extras you can load into them  cheese, butter, sour cream, bacon, etc.  they're the perfect gateway comfort food, no?

rudisill/istockphoto

Ohio: Chili

Given the popularity of Cincinnati Chili, it's a safe bet that a fair number of Buckeyes were putting their comfort food of choice over noodles or hot dogs. After all, notes the What's Cooking America website, "outside of the state of Texas, Cincinnati, Ohio is the most chili-crazed city in the United States."

Rimma_Bondarenko/istockphoto

Oklahoma: Pecan Pie

It might not be the biggest pecan-producing state in the union, but Oklahoma has plenty of pecan trees with which to make these coveted pies.

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Oregon: Corn Cakes

This one was unexpected, but given the versatility of this comfort food  which can just as easily be served with cheese, sour cream, and scallions as it can a heaping dollop of jam or maple syrup  we're not mad about it.

bhofack2/istockphoto

Pennsylvania: Stuffing

Remember when we hinted in the New Hampshire portion of this story earlier that there was another stuffing-loving Northeastern state? Here it is.

LauriPatterson/istockphoto

Rhode Island: Pizza

Almost shocking, isn't it, that it took until this point for pizza to make a showing? Rhode Island is the only state where it appears.

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South Carolina: Shrimp and Grits

Grits make another showing here in the Palmetto State, but this time with seafood instead of cheese.

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South Dakota: Pot Roast

A Midwestern state with a love of pot roast? Yep, this tracks.

DebbiSmirnoff/istockphoto

Tennessee: Chess Pie

If you're not from the Volunteer State or thereabouts, you might not have ever heard of chess pie. If you have a sweet tooth, though, you're missing out. The pie contains mostly humble but delicious ingredients such as cornmeal, sugar, flour, butter, milk, and eggs.

rebeccafondren/istockphoto

Texas: Fried Chicken

Rounding out the last of our locations craving fried chicken is the Lone Star State, where foods such as fried chicken are taken to art-form status.

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Utah: Mashed Potatoes

We're not sure one has anything to do with the other, but apparently researchers found the "world's oldest mashed potatoes" in the same state where they were craved above all other comfort foods in 2020. Fun fact, if nothing else.

A_Lein/istockphoto

Vermont: Banana Bread

Do you know the only thing that can make banana bread better than it already is? Maple syrup. There you go.

Related: Comfort Food Recipes That Freeze Well

Jean Pierre Pinochet/istockphoto

Virginia: Grilled Cheese

Closing out the much-craved grilled cheese portion of this list is Old Dominion, otherwise known as Virginia.

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Washington: Swedish Pancakes

Swedish pancakes are made from an eggier batter than regular pancakes, and in the Evergreen state, they are served with lingonberries, ham, and other toppings.

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West Virginia: Meatloaf

We're not sure meatloaf stands out as a favorite comfort food, but hey, if it's good enough for a publication such as Bon Appetit to pay homage to it, who are we to judge?

Tetiana_Chudovska/istockphoto

Wisconsin: Chicken and Mushroom Soup

Apparently, in some parts of the Badger State, people "guard their mushroom soup recipes like family jewels."

bhofack2/istockphoto

Wyoming: Pot Roast

Rounding out our trio of pot roast-loving states and this entire list is the Cowboy State, where we're guessing no one is truly surprised that meat and potatoes were on the comfort food menu.

This article was originally published on Cheapism

PhanuwatNandee/istockphoto

More From Cheapism
By Andrew Mills

DOHA (Reuters) - A plan for Gaza drawn up by Egypt as a counter to U.S. President Donald Trump's ambition for a Middle East Riviera would sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by Arab, Muslim and Western states, according to a draft seen by Reuters.

The Egyptian vision for Gaza, which is due to be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday, does not specify whether the proposal would be implemented before or after any permanent peace deal to end the war triggered by the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.

Trump's plan, which envisioned clearing Gaza of its Palestinian inhabitants, appeared to back away from long-standing U.S. Middle East policy focused on a two-state solution and sparked anger among Palestinians and Arab nations.

Who will run Gaza after the conflict remains the great unanswered question in negotiations over the future of the enclave. Hamas has so far rejected the idea of any proposal being imposed on Palestinians by other states.

Cairo's plan does not tackle critical issues such as who will foot the bill for Gaza's reconstruction or outline any specific details around how Gaza would be governed, nor how an armed group as powerful as Hamas would be pushed aside.

Under the Egyptian plan, a Governance Assistance Mission would replace the Hamas-run government in Gaza for an unspecified interim period and would be responsible for humanitarian aid and for kick-starting reconstruction of the enclave, which has been devastated by the war.

"There will be no major international funding for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Gaza if Hamas remains the dominant and armed political element on the ground controlling local governance," a preamble outlining the draft Egyptian plan's objectives said.

Details of Egypt's proposed framework for Gaza's future have not been previously reported.

Egypt, Jordan and Gulf Arab states have for almost a month been scrambling to formulate a diplomatic offensive to counter Trump's plan. A number of ideas have been proposed, with Egypt's considered the frontrunner.

Reuters was unable to determine whether Arab leaders would support the plan presented by Egypt.

The plan does not specify who would run the governance mission. It said it would, "draw on the expertise of Palestinians in Gaza and elsewhere to help Gaza recover as quickly as possible".

The draft proposal was shared with Reuters by an official involved in Gaza negotiations who wished to remain anonymous because the draft has not yet been made public.

The plan firmly rejects the U.S. proposal for mass displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, which Arab states such as Egypt and Jordan see as a security threat.

"President Trump has been clear that Hamas cannot continue to govern Gaza," White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes said when asked about Egypt's Gaza plan and whether the U.S. would support it.

"While the President stands by his bold vision for a post-war Gaza, he welcomes input from our Arab partners in the region. It's clear his proposals have driven the region to come to the table rather than allow this issue to devolve into further crisis," Hughes said.

STABILISATION FORCE

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters the group knows of no such proposal by Egypt.

"The day after in Gaza must only be decided by the Palestinians," he said. "Hamas rejects any attempt to impose projects or any form of non-Palestinian administration, or the presence of any foreign forces on the land of the Gaza Strip."

The Egyptian draft does not mention future elections.

Egypt's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment, nor did the office of Israel's prime minister, whose support for any plan is seen as vital to secure a commitment that any future reconstruction will not be destroyed again.

Palestinian Islamist group Hamas has ruled the coastal enclave since 2007. It launched the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and started the Gaza war.

A January 19 ceasefire brought a temporary end to the fighting but the first phase of the deal expired on Saturday with no sign of an agreement to move to the second phase.

The Egyptian draft does not tackle the issue of what actions could be taken if Hamas refuses to disarm or step aside from politics.

The proposal envisions an International Stabilisation Force drawn primarily from Arab states that would take over the role of providing security from the militant group, with the eventual establishment of a new local police force.

Both security and governance bodies would be "arranged, guided and supervised" by a steering board. The draft said the board would comprise key Arab countries, members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the United States, Britain, the European Union and its member states, and others.

The plan does not detail a central governing role for the Palestinian Authority (PA), which opinion polls show has little support among Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

A Palestinian official told Reuters that, like the West Bank, Gaza falls under the PA's jurisdiction - and it must be run by Palestinians.

"We agreed with the Egyptians on a committee made of Palestinian experts that will help the Palestinian Authority in running the Gaza Strip for six months. The committee is made of Palestinian experts and coordinates with the PA, and doesn't answer to non-Palestinian bodies," said the official, who asked not to be named for sensitivity.

RECONSTRUCTION BILL

Since Hamas drove the Palestinian Authority out of Gaza after a brief civil war in 2007, it has crushed all opposition there. Supported by Iran, it built an extensive security apparatus and military organization based around a vast network of tunnels - much of which Israel says it has now destroyed.

The plan does not say who would pay to rebuild Gaza, a bill estimated by the U.N. at more than $53 billion. Two sources have told Reuters that Gulf and Arab states would need to commit at least $20 billion in the initial phase of reconstruction.

Egypt's proposal envisions that states on the steering board could establish a fund to support the interim governing body and arrange donor conferences to seek contributions for a longer-term reconstruction and development plan for Gaza.

The plan does not contain any specific financial pledges.

Oil- and gas-producing Gulf Arab states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates could be vital sources of funding from the region.

The United Arab Emirates, for instance, sees Hamas and other militant groups as an existential threat and is unlikely to offer any funding until Hamas has been sidelined.

The foreign ministries in Qatar and the UAE and Saudi Arabia's international media office did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Egypt's plan, or to questions about their willingness to commit funds to rebuild Gaza.

The draft plan also calls on the steering board to coordinate with a Civil Society Advisory Board, consisting of academics, NGO leaders and other notable figures.

(Reporting by Andrew Mills; Additional reporting by Nidal Al-Mughrabi in Cairo and Matt Spetalnick in Washington; Writing by Andrew Mills and Michael Georgy; Editing by David Clarke)
A second round of tariffs from President Trump started on Tuesday with new duties on America's top three trading partners: Canada, China, and Mexico.

The president imposed 25% duties on Canadian and Mexican imports following a 30-day pause. He also implemented a second round of 10% duties on Chinese imports to increase the blanket tariffs on that nation to 20%.

The moves drew fast retaliation from Canada, which brought in a sweeping package of counter-tariffs on US products, some with immediate effect. China hit back with duties up to 15% on US farm goods and added trade curbs  but its response was seen as designed to keep chances of talks with Trump alive.

In an action signed on Monday to order the new duties against China, Trump said the country "has not taken adequate steps to alleviate the illicit drug crisis." The duties on Canada and Mexico simply went in into effect after the president said there was "no room left" for the US neighbors to fend off a previously signed order with a March 4 deadline.

The new tariffs represent a rapid escalation of Trump's tariff plans, which are now set to surpass the economic toll of his entire first term if he keeps them in place.

President Donald Trump speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on March 3. (ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images) (ROBERTO SCHMIDT via Getty Images)

The Tax Foundation estimates that Trump's 2018-2019 tariffs shrank US GDP by about 0.2%. The new tariffs this week against Canada and Mexico alone are projected to surpass that, the group said, even setting aside any retaliation and Trump's moves against China.

Erica York, the group's vice president of federal tax policy, called all of Trump's actions so far "a $130 billion annual tax increase on Americans" that could work out to $1,000 in additional costs per household.

US stocks plummeted on Monday as investors assessed the economic impact of the Trump administration's tariff plans. The administration's approach to the economy appears to be weighing down both the investing and consumer outlook in the United States.

"The economy appears to be gagging on the uncertainty created by the haphazard economic policymaking happening in DC," Moody's Analytics chief economist Mark Zandi said in a recent post. He listed a range of factors, including "tariff wars, DOGE cuts to jobs and government programs and agencies, and deportations [that] are sowing confusion, which puts a pall on investment, hiring and spending."

The potential economic costs were also underlined Monday, with the Institute for Supply Management's PMI Manufacturing report for February coming in below expectations on tariff uncertainty.

Read more: What are tariffs, and how do they affect you?

A growing economic cost

Underlying the trade tensions is a market recognition that Trump following through on even a small portion of his promises will have wide-ranging effects.

The Tax Foundation calls Trump's 2018-2019 tariffs "one of the largest tax increases in decades" and his promises are much more wide-ranging this time. This week's actions come on top of 10% duties on Chinese goods in early February over the drugs and migration issues.

And another deadline looms next week with a plan for 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum set to take effect on March 12.

A recent Goldman Sachs (GS) research paper on the issue noted that if Trump just followed through on that second threat  and then did nothing else but keep the tariffs in place  it would be "roughly equivalent to all of the tariff hikes from the first Trump administration."

And plenty more is still possible. Trump has launched Commerce Department investigations into products such as semiconductors, copper, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals for potential new duties.

In recent days, Trump added timber to the list, with a new investigation set to get underway there. He also posted Monday that new duties would be coming on external agriculture products in April, telling US farmers to sell more of their crops inside the United States and Have Fun!

Trump has also recently promised 25% duties on the European Union without specifying exactly when those might come into force.

And then waiting next month is what Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calls "the big transaction": reciprocal tariffs that could begin to be implemented on a wide array of nations and goods themselves starting on April 2.

All told, charged former Trump communications director turned outspoken critic Anthony Scaramucci to Yahoo Finance this week, "I don't think this sort of blanket approach is the right way to do it, and I think he's [Trump] is going to put us into a recession."

Promises of quick retaliation

Trump imposed tariffs on US neighbors this week after agreeing to a pause last month following talks with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

But Trump declined to offer any more delays, and all three targeted nations have signaled detailed plans to implement wide-ranging and creative retaliations.

Canada followed through on Tuesday with tariffs that target key sectors in GOP-run states like Florida orange juice or Kentucky bourbon. Its list of 1,256 US products hit with new levies starting immediately includes everyday products like wine, peanut butter, and apparel. Tariffs on big-ticket items like cars and food products such as dairy will come in after a 21-day consultation period.

Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum told reporters on Monday that her nation was ready to respond, saying, "We have a plan B, C, D."

The duties will be enforced using a 1977 law called the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which endows the president with wide-ranging authority to act without even the minimal delays of things like a Commerce Department review.

This post has been updated with additional developments.

Ben Werschkul is Washington correspondent for Yahoo Finance.

Every Friday, Yahoo Finance's Rick Newman and Ben Werschkul bring you a unique look at how U.S. policy and government affects your bottom line on Capitol Gains. Watch or listen to Capitol Gains on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you find your favorite podcasts.

Click here for political news related to business and money policies that will shape tomorrow's stock prices

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
On a warm winter day in Phoenix, self-driving taxis zoom past every few blocks, their empty front seats barely raising an eyebrow. The real surprise? How little the locals seem to notice.

The only people doing double takes are European touristshere for the sunshine but suddenly eager to ditch their rental cars for a spin in a robotaxi.

That level of normalization across multiple American cities is the result of years of aggressive investment and regulatory flexibility. Alphabets Waymo first launched public trials of autonomous vehicles in Phoenix in 2017 and rolled out a full commercial service in 2018. Yet in Europe there isnt a single commercial robotaxi service.

Despite active testing in various cities, Europe lags far behind the U.S. and China in deploying self-driving taxis at scale. Three challenges explain this lag: money, infrastructure, and regulatory roadblocks across the continent.

Money talksand Europes not listening

The biggest issue, according to Tal Brener, former CFO of ride-hailing app Gett, is capitalor rather, the lack of it. U.S. venture capital and private equity investors are willing to take huge risks on technology they believe has massive potential, Brener says. In Europe, the investment industry is much more conservative.

American investors saw the long-term potential of autonomous mobility and poured billions into it, knowing it would require years of development. That led to the rise of companies like Waymo, which has operated extensive real-world deployments. In contrast, European robotaxi ventures have been more fragmented, smaller in scale, and often tied to traditional automakers that move more cautiously.

In Europe, the investment industry is much more conservative. Tal Brener, former CFO of Gett

Even when European companies have dabbled in autonomous transport, theyve struggled to scale. Volkswagen attempted to launch its own ride-hailing service in 2018, but the projectfocused on autonomous shuttles rather than taxisstill hasnt become commercially viable. Meanwhile, Waymo has been operating at Level 4 autonomy in Phoenix for nearly seven years (autonomous driving is classified into six levels, from Level 0, no automation, to Level 5, full autonomy).

Innoviz Technologies CEO Omer Keilaf

A litany of U.S. advantages

The U.S. lead in autonomous driving isnt just about private investment. Innoviz Technologies CEO Omer Keilaf attributes it to decades of government-funded programs and research. Long-term projects from DARPA [Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency] and expertise from institutions like Carnegie MellonEurope never developed that knowledge, he says. Early government investment in self-driving technology built a talent pipeline that now powers commercial ventures.

Brener highlights another structural advantage: Scaling robotaxi operations is far easier in the U.S. than in Europe. Once youve launched in one U.S. state, its relatively easy to expand into others, he explains. But in Europe, every country has different regulations, and even within a single country like Germany, different regions have different rules. The fragmented nature of European governance has slowed down deployment, making it difficult for companies to scale in the same way U.S. firms have.

The challenges of European roads

One reason often cited for the slow rollout of robotaxis in Europe is the continents dense urban environments. Brener points to the sheer complexity of European roads compared with U.S. cities like Phoenix and Austin, which have wide streets and grids. European city centers werent designed for cars the way American cities were, he says. Youre dealing with winding streets, irregular intersections, and a lot of pedestrian-heavy areas. Thats a huge challenge for autonomous vehicles.

Yet while the complexity of European streets is a factor, not everyone sees it as an insurmountable obstacle. Keilaf argues that infrastructure alone isnt the main thing holding Europe back. People say its the narrow roads, the winding streets, the historical city centersbut come on, he says. San Francisco is one of the hardest places to drive, with slopes, tight streets, and heavy congestion. If Waymo can handle that, then Europes streets arent an excuse.

The reality is that while these challenges make deployment more complicated, they are problems that can be solved with enough investment and regulatory willpowerboth of which have been lacking in Europe.

San Francisco is one of the hardest places to drive, with slopes, tight streets, and heavy congestion. If Waymo can handle that, then Europes streets arent an excuse. Omer Keilaf, CEO of Innoviz Technologies

Another major factor slowing down European robotaxi deployment is the difficulty of working with regulators. Brener notes that in the U.S., companies have formed direct relationships with government agencies, allowing them to negotiate regulatory approvals more efficiently.

In Europe, its much harder to connect vision with regulation, he explains. Theres more bureaucracy, more caution, and fewer direct pathways for business leaders to shape policy. This dynamic has made it tougher for European robotaxi projects to get off the ground.

A Baidu Inc. driverless robotaxi, center, in Wuhan, China, on Sunday, July 21, 2024. More than 500 electric robotaxis built by Baidu currently ply the city's streets, with plans for an additional 1,000 to be deployed by year-end. Photographer: Qilai Shen/Bloomberg via Getty Images

The shift toward a robo-transit future

Europe may not have robotaxis yet, but that doesnt mean autonomy isnt coming. The focus, however, seems to be on public transit rather than private robotaxis. In Europe, cities are built around strong public transportation systems, Brener notes. Thats why a lot of autonomous investment here is going toward shuttles and buses, not private taxis.

Keilafs company, Innoviz Technologies, is already working with Volkswagen on an autonomous version of its electric bus, the ID. Buzz, set to launch in Germany in 2026. Meanwhile, one of the most ambitious autonomous taxi projects in Europe is coming from an unexpected player: Verne, a subsidiary of electric automotive manufacturer Rimac Automobili.

The Croatian startup is aiming to launch self-driving taxis in the countrys capital, Zagreb, by 2026, with expansion into the U.K. and Germany shortly after. Unlike many European automakers that have been slow to embrace Level 4 autonomy, Verne is going all in. The company has designed its vehicles from the ground up for full autonomymeaning no steering wheels, no pedals, and no human interaction required. Instead of retrofitting existing car models with self-driving tech, Verne is building a vehicle specifically optimized for urban autonomous taxi operations.

Vernes investors see it as Europes best chance to catch up in the robotaxi race. The company is leveraging Rimacs cutting-edge electric powertrains and battery systemsbest known for powering high-performance hypercarsto develop a two-seater autonomous vehicle designed for European cities. With data showing that 90% of taxi rides carry just one or two passengers, Verne argues its compact design meets real-world demand. If it succeeds, Europe may finally have a homegrown answer to Waymo.

Will Europe ever catch up?

The European market may have been slow to embrace robotaxis, but that doesnt mean it will stay behind forever. Investment is picking up, public-transit-focused autonomy is taking shape, and major players like Volkswagen and Tesla are making moves.

For now, though, dont expect to see driverless taxis cruising around London or Paris. If youre a European who wants to experience a robo-ride, your best bet is still a trip to the States.

This article appears in the April/May 2025 issue of Fortune with the headline Why Are There No Robotaxis In Europe?

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
In the past three years, TreVon Johnson-Stearnes three aunts died and he didnt know how to cope with the loss.

He would find himself trying to shop, sleep or eat the grief away but nothing worked. He tried traditional therapy but couldnt open up to his therapist, so he stopped.

But then the Cleveland student took a new approach that felt a little more accessible: hip-hop therapy. After a few weeks, the 17-year-old student said hes been able to begin the healing process.

Pain doesnt get better unless you figure out a way forward, Johnson-Stearnes said. With this program, its a vibe and you also find out another person lost someone too and then talking about it is not as bad anymore.

Students in the studio at Breakthrough Sounds Recording Studio in Cleveland.

The intentionally named Cope Dealer program at Glenville High School in Cleveland is one of many hip-hop therapy programs popping up in schools and communities across the country. The aim is to help young people who may not have access to mental health resources  or who dont find traditional therapy culturally relevant to them.

Were dealing coping skills, said Shelly Gates, Cope Dealer program director. Were dealing actual healing techniques.

Teenagers in the program spend 14 weeks learning skills such as journaling, breath management and community building. They also discuss topics such as racial discrimination, police brutality and neighborhood violence. Taking the skills they learn and feelings they share, they work on a song together and turn their pain into music.

You need a healthy outlet, said Jerome Cash, a licensed therapist and Cope Dealer program facilitator. When you change the language and the verbiage of things, it makes it more accessible to students to respond to.

Johnson-Stearnes told his program cohort about his feelings after his aunts died and rapped lyrics he wrote to share his story. He said it helped him finally talk about his grief.

It was a scary feeling to talk to people about the loss, he said. The Cope Dealer program was a bonding experience and was like a group hug.

Tahj Banks and Isaiah Amos, members of the first cohort of the Cope Dealer Program in Cleveland.

Cash said he sees himself in the children with whom he works. He remembers thinking therapy wasnt for Black people because he never saw representation. He wants to make his students comfortable so they dont feel alienated by the concept of therapy.

Them being able to open up to us gave us more of a safe space, Johnson-Stearnes said, referring to the program facilitators. They can help us and be a positive influence to get us on the right track.

Music therapy has proven to be effective, especially in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. As hip-hop was born from the struggles and aspirations of Black and Latino youth, hip-hop therapy becomes more of an accessible delivery system.

J.C. Hall is a clinical social worker who runs the Hip-Hop Therapy Studio program at Mott Haven Community High School in the Bronx borough of New York City. He studied under Edgar H. Tyson, who is credited with originating the practice of hip-hop therapy.

Hip-hop, being like therapy, is what literally saved my life. It kept me going for a long time, Hall said. I have no doubt this is gonna help a lot of people.

Students sharing their personal stories at the Hip-Hop Therapy Studio Program in the Bronx.

Kryst Jackson, 17, said he tried traditional therapy but never got to the point where he felt comfortable talking about his upbringing because he did not think his therapist could understand his life. Once he joined Mott Havens studio program, he found a space in which he could open up and produce his music, including a song called Free The Streets, which touches on the struggles of poverty and violence he faced growing up in the Bronx.

This is really just being able to express yourself in a fun way, he said. What I learned about music is more than just lyrics on the beat. Its what it could bring out of you.

George James, a licensed family therapist and psychologist, said hes seen how mental health professionals need to approach Black youth and their mental health uniquely. He believes hip-hop therapy is a way to meet Black teens where theyre at.

Students in the Cope Dealer program recording their song in the studio in Cleveland.

A 2022 study on the mental health burden among Black adolescents showed they are less likely than their white peers to seek and find mental health care. According to the study, reasons include negative perceptions of services and a lack of access. While Kryst and TreVon both said they tried traditional talk therapy, they said it did not work for them. James said many Black youth often feel a stigma within the Black community and a historical distrust of the medical industry when it comes to seeking out therapy.

Theres something about culturally relevant therapy and modalities that can help people to say, I could understand that, or that makes sense to me, or that allows me to really go there and share my thoughts and emotions, James said.

Angel Pinet, another Mott Haven student, said his three months in the studio program have changed his life for the better. He values the supportive community at the studio program, particularly from Hall, who encourages his students to dig into deeper and darker issues.

Students in the Cope Dealer Program practicing in the studio in Cleveland.

Pinet, 17, grew up with a single mother who has often had to make $100 stretch across all of their expenses for one week. He said he didnt always make things easy for his mom with his behavior in school and his grades, but it wasnt until he made a song dedicated to her that helped him reflect on why he would behave in that way and how he could change his ways.

When you go through a situation, you kind of forget whats really going on because theres so much to take in at once, he said. With music, I feel like I can pull my situations part by part and really understand what it is.
Pardoned J6 offender killed in altercation with police

By Mark Alexander

web posted March 3, 2025

It was been a deadly week for police officers recently.

Two Virginia officers, Cameron Girvin (25) and Christopher Reese (30), were executed during a traffic stop for expired plates. A day later, a police officer in Pennsylvania, Andrew Duarte (30), was murdered when attempting to subdue a felony offender with hostages in a hospital.

Furthermore, Border Patrol Agent David Maland (44), who was murdered on 20 January in Vermont by members of a transgender vegan anarchist group, was laid to rest with full military honors.

Fortunately, however, more often than not, the good guys survive, and the assailants are taken down.

That was the case a few weeks ago in Jasper County, Indiana, when a January 6th rioter, Matthew Huttle, was stopped by a deputy sheriff who attempted to arrest him. Huttle, who resisted arrest and refused to follow instructions, was shot dead during the altercation, and though he was in possession of a firearm, he did not get a shot off at the deputy.

Huttle was among those pardoned by Donald Trump.

Now, if you want an estimate of my strong support for Trump's agenda, I outlined that affirmation in "Trump 2.0  Attack of the Disruptors" two weeks ago.

In fact, there are only two decisions Trump has made in recent months with which I strongly disagree.

First was the nomination of Matt Gaetz for attorney general. Fortunately, that ship sank fast, and a far more qualified AG nominee, Pam Bondi, surfaced. We can agree to disagree on Gaetz's qualifications, but suffice it to say that he has disappeared down some narcissistic rat hole and has been virtually unheard of since.

The second thing Trump did, which I think was an even greater mistake than the Gaetz nomination, was to issue a blanket pardon to all but 14 of the J6 offenders, including violent rioters.

I know why Trump issued the pardons  it amounted to the lesser of two bad options, as I outline below.

In Joe Biden's pardon extravaganza, he released thousands of criminals before leaving office, including Hunter Biden. He commuted the sentences of 1,499 people and pardoned another 39 convicts, followed just before Christmas with his commutation of the sentences of 37 of 40 federal death row inmates, some being the most evil people in federal custody. He began the New Year commuting another 2,500 sentences.

Then Biden issued preemptive pardons to Anthony Fauci, GEN Mark Milley, and the J6 inquisitors, including witness-tampering former Rep. Liz Cheney. And just minutes before Trump took his oath of office, Biden extended pardons to his immediate family members  to the astonishment of many of Biden's Leftmedia defenders, including even CNN leftist Jake Tapper.

But soon after Biden's pardon and commutation bonanza, I noted the shock that most of us experienced when Trump announced those pardons and commutations for almost all of those convicted of or still being prosecuted for J6 offenses.

We all anticipated that Trump would issue pardons for the J6 protesters charged or convicted of nonviolent offenses. Trump said, "A vast majority should not be in jail," and he was correct. He earlier insisted, "If they were nonviolent, I think they've been greatly punished." Again, correct.

Trump sent JD Vance out to rebut claims that he would pardon those convicted of violent attacks against police. Vance was clear: "Look, if you protested peacefully on January the 6th, and you've had Merrick Garland's Department of Justice treat you like a gang member, you should be pardoned. If you committed violence on that day, obviously, you shouldn't be pardoned."

Bondi affirmed that Trump would not release violent offenders. "I condemn any violence on a law enforcement officer in this country," she declared, adding, "The president does not like people who abuse police officers, either."

Of the 1,583 defendants charged after the January 6 riot, 1,230 had already entered guilty pleas or been convicted  and almost 200 pleas and 220 convictions were for felonies that included violent assaults on police officers.

So, why did Trump order the release of violent felony offenders among all the other nonviolent offenders?

First, I think Trump was outraged about the Demo double-standard in the politically motivated J6 "insurrectionist" persecutions.

For context, recall that while no police officers were killed by J6 protesters (despite continued false assertions to the contrary by Democrats), there were 140 police officers injured that day.

By comparison, according to a federal assessment, "Federal Protective Services, the Secret Service and the Park Police reported that at least 180 officers were injured" six months earlier by actual insurrectionists at Lafayette Square outside the White House. Police were violently assaulted by Black Lives Matter radicals and antifa movement fascists who were attempting to establish a "Black House Autonomous Zone."

The Lafayette Square assaults on officers were part of just one of more than 600 riots nationwide in Democrat-controlled urban centers by their constituent mobs during the 2020 "summer of rage"  the "burn, loot, and murder" insurrections fomented by Biden and his "unity" cadres.

All of that violence was the result of the Democrats' pre-2020 election "systemic racism" lie. Historian Victor Davis Hanson noted the consequences: "100 days of torching federal court houses and police precincts, 700 policeman injured, 40 people dead, $4-$5 billion in damages..."

Among the murdered in those riots were law enforcement officers David Dorn and Dave Patrick Underwood  at the same time Democrats were calling to "defund the police" and vilifying cops.

At the time of those riots across the nation, Democrat governors and mayors issued police stand-down orders, so they faced limited resistance. Of the rioters who were actually arrested, recall these headlines:

Apparently, those Demo governors and mayors have the same "catch and release" policy the Biden administration practiced with the more than one million immigrants who crossed our southern border in the last six months of his term.

And in Washington, DC: "Nearly All Rioters Freed from Jail in D.C., Most Avoid Felony Riot Charges."

Not only did DC release the social justice rioters last year, but recall the violent rioting thugs in our nation's capital who were protesting Donald Trump's inauguration in 2017. Of the more than 200 felony indictments, almost all charges were dropped.

However, all those violent insurrectionists were fodder for the Demos' narrative, so they got a pass. The resulting surge in violence fomented by the Democrats in 2020 continues today.

But on January 6, 2021, Democrats finally found a riot they could condemn.

If not for double standards, Democrats would have NO standards.

The second reason Trump released all the J6 protesters: He knew that the continued prosecution (persecution) of hundreds of protesters who had been charged but had yet to enter pleas or be convicted would keep the Demos' J6 inquisition going for at least another year. Trump wanted to put it behind and move forward with his ambitious second-term agenda.

Additionally, I think Trump's decision was a smackdown of his House archnemesis, Nancy Pelosi, for her histrionic "insurrection inquisition," as well as a smackdown of Demos who refused to prosecute, much less even allow a public investigation of, Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd, who killed Ashli Babbitt  the only lethal confrontation with police that day.

Finally, issuing the blanket pardons was no doubt a tough decision for Trump. Still, the Demos' double standards for "justice" and what would inevitably be their effort to keep the J6 persecutions alive for the next two years justified a very difficult decision.

Moving forward, it is fortunate that Matthew Huttle did not kill the Jasper County deputy. Let's hope another of those pardoned violent offenders does not murder a law enforcement officer. Trump will not be able to rinse that blood stain off with ease.

Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post.
As someone who loves taking day trips around Europe, there are a few mistakes I'll avoid making in the future. Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

I live in Paris and like to take day trips to other European cities.

I've made lots of mistakes along the way, like not dressing properly for the weather.

After letting my phone die on a trip to Copenhagen, I now carry a portable charger with me.

As someone who's been living in Europe for the past three years, I never pass up the opportunity to visit a new city. The ability to hop on a cheap flight and change environments for the day is something I just can't resist.

However, although day trips can be fun and exciting experiences, there are a few things that can turn an amazing trip into an OK one.

Here are four mistakes I've made while traveling around Europe.

Not checking the weather forecast carefully before leaving home

When I was in Dublin, I wore a jacket that was too light for the temperature. Djena Camara

Before visiting Dublin in December, I didn't pay close enough attention to the weather.

I made the mistake of bringing a very light jacket, and it was so chilly that walking around the city quickly became uncomfortable. I've since learned it's always a good idea to take a few minutes to check the weather before leaving.

Trying to do too much in one trip

When traveling, I often overpack my schedule, trying to see as much as possible in a short period of time.

However, I've learned it's important to prioritize the things I want to see and do most. For example, if I'm going to be in a city for eight to 10 hours, there's no way I can visit multiple museums, do a walking tour, go to a local bar, and explore different neighborhoods.

I made the mistake of overloading my itinerary in Krakow, Poland, and ended up canceling a walking tour and museum visits. By doing so, I was able to immerse myself in the local culture and explore the city on my own time.

Letting my phone die in the middle of the trip

Now, I always make sure to pack a portable charger in my bag. mapo/Getty Images

During my trip to Copenhagen, I forgot my portable charger, and my phone died halfway through the day. I couldn't find a charging port anywhere, and since I was only in the city for a few hours, I didn't want to waste time sitting somewhere to charge my phone.

This meant I couldn't take as many pictures as I wanted, and I had to stay close to familiar areas to avoid getting lost.

Luckily, Copenhagen's metro system is easy to navigate, and I got back to the airport without any issues. However, my portable charger is now the second thing I put in my travel bag after my passport.

Not planning meals in advance  or having a backup plan

As a self-proclaimed "go with the flow" person, I've learned the hard way that planning my meals ahead of time is crucial.

In the past, I've wasted a lot of time trying to decide where to eat. Plus, when I'm short on time and visiting a busy restaurant, I can't afford to wait an hour for a table.

Planning ahead and making reservations (or having a backup option in mind) ensures I'm not disappointed or wasting valuable time.

Read the original article on Business Insider
First Lady Melania Trump at the Commander-in-Chief Ball on January 20, 2025, in Washington, DC. - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images/File

First lady Melania Trump is expected to speak publicly Monday, for the first time since her husband returned to office, highlighting her support for a bill aimed at protecting Americans from deepfake and revenge pornography.

Trump will hold a roundtable discussion Monday on Capitol Hill, according to the office of the first lady, to shine a light on the TAKE IT DOWN Act, which boosts protections for victims of non-consensual sharing of sexual images, including content generated by artificial intelligence, also known as deepfake porn.

In the past year, targets of AI-generated, non-consensual pornographic images have ranged from prominent women such as Taylor Swift and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to high school girls.

The bill, introduced by Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, would criminalize the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII), including AI-generated NCII (or deepfake pornography), and require social media and similar websites to have in place procedures to remove such content upon notification from a victim, according to Cruzs office.

It passed the Senate with bipartisan support during the last session of Congress and again in February but has yet to pass the House. Cruz and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, including Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota and Rep. Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania, have supported the effort, and the first lady is now lending her support.

During President Donald Trumps first term, Melania Trump unveiled her Be Best platform, which included a focus on online safety. She indicated in an interview shortly before the November election that she was interested in reinvigorating those efforts, and suggested she could take on new issues.

Children are suffering. We need to help them and educate them, she told Fox News in October.

The first lady has so far spent limited time in Washington during her husbands second term. After attending the inauguration and joining her husband on a trip to North Carolina and California, states that have recently been impacted with natural disasters, Melania Trump was absent from the White House between January 24 and February 22, when she reemerged to host a dinner with the nations governors.

The first lady was expected to spend a majority of her time between New York, where son Barron is attending college, and Florida, CNN reported during the presidential transition. Sources familiar with her thinking said at the time that she would still be present for major events and would have her own platform and priorities as first lady.

Even as shes been open about traversing the East Coast, the first lady has previously emphasized that shed be in DC. Asked where she planned to spend her time in a January 13 interview with Fox News Ainsley Earhardt, Trump said, I will be in the White House. And, you know, when I need to be in New York, I will be in New York. When I need to be in Palm Beach, I will be in Palm Beach.

She continued, But my first priority is, you know, to be a mom, to be a first lady, to be a wife, and once we are in on January 20, you serve the country.

The president has also spent significant time in Florida since Inauguration Day, traveling to Miami or Palm Beach for his first four weekends in office.

This story has been updated with additional information.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Retta Cruse

A woman convicted of killing her two young daughters in 2021 has died by suicide in prison.

According to an official statement from the Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry (ADCRR), 38-year-old Retta Cruse died on Feb. 21 "from an apparent act of self-harm by hanging.

The statement said that Cruse was found unresponsive in her housing unit at Perryville Prison and that prison staff conducted life-saving measures until paramedics arrived.

However, responding paramedics, in consultation with medical staff, pronounced Cruse dead on the scene.

The release further noted that Cruse was admitted to ADCRR custody in 2022 after she was sentenced out of Maricopa County for two counts of first-degree murder.

On Sept. 8, 2021, police responded to a report from a man who said that his two children were deceased in his home, per ABC 15 Arizona.

Upon entering the Phoenix apartment complex, authorities discovered 9-year-old Aleyah and 4-year-old Royal unresponsive in a bed. Cruse was found barricaded in a bedroom with self-inflicted knife wounds at the time, per the outlet.

ABC 15 reported that investigators later determined that Cruse had given her children prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications in order to sedate and overdose them intentionally.

Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases.

Cruse was booked on two counts of first-degree murder on Sept. 14, 2021, after being released from the hospital for treatment for her wounds. She later pleaded guilty to the murders in 2022 and was sentenced that same year, per AZ Central.

Cruse, who was originally from New Jersey, had recently moved her family to Arizona for spiritual reasons, per a GoFundMe set up to cover the childrens burial costs, per NJ.com.

At the time, 12 News reported that Cruse had just lost a bitter custody battle over her elder daughter, Aleyah.

Court documents stated that Cruse confessed to the crimes and said she committed them specifically because of the custody case, per the outlet.

Read the original article on People
The mother of an Arizona teen whose dismembered remains were discovered in trash bags by the side of the road 18 days after she went missing broke down in tears as she described her late daughter as just a baby.

Authorities found the remains of 14-year-old Emily Pike placed in multiple large contractor garbage bags and left on the side of a dirt road on February 14, just days before her birthday, according to WCJB.

She was just an innocentshe was a baby, the girls mother, Steff Dosela, told the outlet. She was a very happy and kind person. She loved painting. She loved art. She loved to draw.

Emily, whose family lives on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation, was living in a group home in Mesa when she went missing on Jan. 27.

Emily Pike, 14, was found dismembered in garbage bags on the side of a dirt road after she had gone missing. Facebook / Steff Dosela

The teen was last seen alive in January, and her group home manager reported her missing.

Her case manager came a week later to tell me she was missing, Dosela told WCJB.

While the teens remains were located last month, authorities were only able to confirm they belonged to Pike this past week. Her autopsy results showed she suffered visible face and head trauma.

A head and torso were discovered in large bags with her legs in separate bags, however, the girls arms and hands were not found, Gila County Sheriffs Office said.

Emily (center) had a love of art and painting, her mother said. Facebook / Steff Dosela

Why did it go that far? Its pain that I hope no other mother goes through, Dosela said through tears.

According to the mother, police have three suspects  but they have not shared their names.

Her mother said Emily, who had big dreams of studying art in college, wouldve soon been celebrating her 15th birthday.

Emilys mother said she wouldve soon been turning 15 years old. Facebook / Steff Dosela

Youll never be forgotten. I love you, her mother said. Until we meet again, rest in peace.

Authorities have ruled the teens death a homicide.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Gila County Sheriffs Office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs or the San Carlos Apache Tribal Police.
Brush fires that erupted amid dry and windy conditions caused officials in both North and South Carolina to order evacuations Saturday.



A fire in North Carolina's Polk County has burned between 400 to 500 acres and was at zero containment, according to Jeremy Waldrop with the North Carolina Fire Service. Waldrop said that structures could be at risk and officials would assess any potential damage Sunday morning.

The NCFS on Sunday performed controlled burns to slow down the spread of the blaze and strengthened fire lines that were already in place, officials said.

Polk County announced evacuations in a Facebook Post for residents along U.S. Highway 176 between Tryon and Saluda, warning that the fire is spreading rapidly, and multiple departments were working on containment.



Tryon has a population of about 1,500 people, while Saluda's is under 1,000. The towns are approximately 40 miles south of Asheville.

Firefighters battle a blaze in the Carolina Forest neighborhood on March 2, 2025 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Multiple forest fires in the area have caused evacuations along the South Carolina coast. / Credit: Sean Rayford/Getty Images

In South Carolina, Horry County Fire Rescue evacuated residents from several neighborhoods in the Carolina Forest, around 10 miles west of Myrtle Beach, due to a forest fire that has burned at least 1,600 acres. South Carolina Gov. Henry McMacter issued a state of emergency on Sunday in response to the ongoing fire that was at 30% containment.

"We are being evacuated from our neighborhood as winds have increased and shifted," resident Jason Jawz wrote Facebook, posting a video of billowing smoke on Sunday morning.

Two planes and a Black Hawk helicopter were seen dropping water on the fire Sunday morning. Tractors also helped dig lines around the blaze in an effort to contain it.

By late Sunday afternoon, Horry County Fire Rescue said all residents previously evacuated were able to return home, warning them to watch out for any rekindling and hotspots. A statewide burn ban for all counties was still in effect after over 100 ignitions were reported Saturday, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

A red flag warning from the National Weather Service expired late Saturday night for western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina. Red Flag warnings indicate critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or imminent.

Vatican announces Pope Francis' funeral details as his burial requests are revealed

From the archives: 1970 Earth Day special report with Walter Cronkite

Remembering Pope Francis, the Catholic Church leader who broke with tradition
By Casey Hall and Sophie Yu

MAOTAI, China (Reuters) - In the Chinese village of Maotai, the local firewater named after the town is not only a key source of income, it's a barometer of the country's battered consumer market and the economic misfortunes of its home province.

In the weeks before Lunar New Year, tourists traditionally flock to the town, nestled in the mountains of the southwestern province of Guizhou, to buy the baijiu, or white spirit, as gifts - this year, those crowds were notably smaller.

The premium spirit made locally by Kweichow Moutai has for decades been a fixture at weddings, business dinners and state functions, but its sales in the past two years have been hit by poor consumer and business confidence.

Victor Shih, a professor of political science at the University of California San Diego, says Moutai's strong cash flows have been "an important part of the strategy to help Guizhou's government repay debt that is constantly coming due".

That means any contraction in Moutai's profit constitutes a problem for the government, which "needs that money to repay their debt and to run the government," he added.

Shanghai-listed Kweichow Moutai is majority-owned by Moutai Group, in turn wholly owned by Guizhou, China's second-most indebted province.

Its contribution to Guizhou's economic development is enormous, not only as a major employer but also as a vehicle for the province to raise revenue and pay down debt.

Long considered a bellwether of Chinese consumer demand, its retail performance has been squeezed in recent years by wider deflationary pressures.

"Before, people would fly from Beijing to buy bottles of Moutai for more than 3,000 yuan ($412) several times per year," said a shopkeeper at one of the many liquor stores lining the river in Maotai village.

"Now you can get a bottle for as little as 1,699 yuan, but the environment is so bad, no-one wants to buy."

Kweichow Moutai, the world's largest alcohol company and until last year China's most valuable listed firm with a market value as high as $400 billion, makes its clear spirit from sorghum and has a special place in the nation's history.

Premier Zhou Enlai toasted U.S. president Richard Nixon with Moutai on his landmark 1972 China visit.

But a persistent slump in sentiment has taken the wind out of Kweichow Moutai's share price and the price consumers are willing to pay for the product.

The firm's value has fallen by almost half since hitting a record high in 2021, and the market price of a 500 ml bottle of its flagship 53% proof Feitian "Flying Fairy" last year dropped as much as 22% from 2,700 yuan at the start of 2024.

Kweichow Moutai declined an interview request. Guizhou's provincial government did not respond to requests.

TURNAROUND TROUBLES

To be sure, Kweichow Moutai's revenues are not linked to the market price of the product but to the factory gate price its network of distributors pay.

Moutai's 20% bump in factory gate prices for Feitian in late 2023 helped keep revenues above their 15% sales growth target for 2024, according to preliminary results in January.

But questions remain over how long this growth will last.

Estimates from brokerages and company executives indicate at least 50% of inventory produced by the company over the last decade has not been consumed, but instead held as inventory, often as alternative investments.

Some analysts warn a major inventory sell-off could further impact Moutai's market and share prices. UBS research predicted Feitian's market price could fall far below the 2,000 yuan benchmark by mid-2025.

A fall in prices, in turn, impacts Moutai's luxury brand.

"If you are served Moutai, it means you are important and successful," said George Liu, a private equity manager in Beijing. "If it's cheaper, what's the point of drinking it?"

Moutai also faces demographic challenges, according to Ben Cavender, managing director at Shanghai-based China Market Research Group.

"Baijiu is traditionally an older man's drink and most consumers under the age of 35 really don't have a taste for it," he said.

Chasing younger drinkers, Moutai has collaborated on affordable products like lattes and ice cream, gimmicks that Cavender says haven't had much effect.

Company executives have flagged international expansion for potential growth, though it's unlikely to compensate for a domestic slowdown.

PROVINCIAL GIANT

All of that raises questions about Kweichow Moutai's support for Guizhou.

The company's red, white and blue logo is emblazoned on public works across the province.

In addition to employing more than 30,000, the company accounts for a fifth of the province's tax receipts and 5% of its GDP.

Guizhou has used the company to not only raise revenues and pay down debts but also bail out local highway-builders and contribute to public works such as roads, railways, airports and hospitals.

Four years ago, Moutai Group issued a 15 billion yuan bond to buy an expressway. It then transferred for free a $14 billion stake in the listed company to the Guizhou government.

By the end of 2023, Guizhou's official provincial debt had reached 1.5 trillion yuan, ballooning 26% from the previous year and accounting for 72% of GDP.

That appears to be stabilising, said Yao Yu, founder of credit analysis firm Ratingdog, noting provincial development is mostly dependent on "central transfer payments and local debt issuance" rather than tax revenues from state-owned enterprises like Kweichow Moutai.

The broader question is where Guizhou will find new sources of revenue, given its patchy record in firing up new industries, such as big data centres.

As it stands, according to Guido Cozzi, professor of macroeconomics at the University of St. Gallen, a slowdown in Moutai's growth limits its ability to financially support Guizhou, "potentially leading to higher borrowing costs and an increased risk of default for the province.

($1 = 7.2801 Chinese yuan)

(Reporting by Casey Hall and Sophie Yu. Editing by Anne Marie Roantree and Sam Holmes)
U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order in the Oval Office at the White House on February 25, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump signed an executive order on suspending security clearances held by Peter Koski and members, partners, and employees of Covington & Burling LLP who assisted former Special Counsel Jack Smith during his time as Special Counsel. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

A post shared on Facebook claims South Africa banned all American businesses and halted mineral exports.

Verdict: False

There is no evidence for this claim.

Fact Check:

Social media users are claiming that South Africa suspended all U.S. businesses and halted the export of minerals to the U.S. in response to the U.S. suspending all USAID projects.

South Africa has officially suspended all American businesses within its territory and halted the export of minerals to the United States, reads part of one users post. (RELATED: Claim That Trump Plans To Invalidate Bidens Student Loan Forgiveness Program Is Satire)

There is no evidence that South Africa has done this. If they had done so, media outlets would have covered it, yet none have. A wider internet search also did not yield any results for this claim.

A South African official did suggest that the country should ban mineral exports to the U.S., but another representative said that the remark was a joke, according to Reuters.

The Dispatch also debunked this claim. The outlet reported that South Africa has made no recent move affecting the business activity of American-based companies operating in the country.
No Other Land, a portrait of a West Bank village under Israeli military occupation, won the Oscar for best documentary feature at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday. In their acceptance speech, two of the films four directors pleaded for an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope to my daughter [is] she will not have to live the same life I am living now, said co-director Basel Adra, a Palestinian activist who is from Masafer Yatta, a region of the West Bank.

Adra went on to describe the issues faced by his village, including home demolitions and displacement. We call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people, he said.

Yuval Abraham, an Israeli investigative journalist who co-directed No Other Land, described Adra as his brother but decried that they are considered unequal.

We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law and Basel is under military laws that destroy his life, Abraham said.

Abraham called for an end to the violence that has consumed the Middle East for decades and worsened after Hamas terrorist attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and the ensuing Israeli military offensive in Gaza.

Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, Basel Adra and Yuval Abraham accept the Documentary Feature Film award "No Other Land" onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.

We made this film, Palestinian and Israelis, because together our voices are stronger, Abraham said. We see each other. The atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people must end. The Israeli hostages brutally taken in the crime of Oct. 7 must be freed.

Abraham urged the world to seek a different path, a political solution, without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people. He criticized the U.S. government, accusing the foreign policy in this country of helping to block this path.

No Other Land was one of the best-reviewed documentary features of last year. It did not secure theatrical distribution in the United States  a fact that the filmmakers attributed to political sensitivities around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

However, No Other Land screened at independent cinemas in select cities; digital screeners were made available for academy voters.

Adra and Abrahams joint acceptance speech was one of the few explicitly political moments of the Oscars ceremony. Conan OBrien, making his debut as host, largely shied away from jokes about world events or domestic politics.

However, Conclave screenwriter Peter Straughan wore a blue and yellow pin in honor of Ukraine. Daryl Hannah, presenting one of the awards, briefly expressed solidarity with Ukraine as it repels Russias invasion.

The expressions of support followed a tense meeting at the White House on Friday during which President Trump Donald and Vice President JD Vance clashed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
An off-duty Boston police officer shot and killed a man allegedly trying to stab people inside a Chick-fil-A over the weekend, the district attorney and department's commissioner said.

The fatal shooting occurred around 5:30 p.m. Saturday and was preceded by two people running into the fast food chain's Boylston Street location as the knife-wielding man chased behind them, Michael Cox, commissioner and chief of the Boston Police Department, said during a news conference.

"The individual was attempting to stab the two individuals in the store and the off-duty officer, who identified himself as a police officer, instructed him to drop the weapon at which point the individual did not comply and the officer discharged his weapon to stop the threat and the individual was struck," Cox said.

A Chick-fil-A sign is seen above one of its restaurants on July 28, 2012 in Bethesda, Maryland.

The armed man was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced deceased, according to Cox. The off-duty cop also went to the hospital to be evaluated, he added.

"This is a tragic incident, we don't look for loss of life so our condolences go out to the individual," the commissioner said.

A motive for the alleged stabbing attack is unclear as police are early into their investigation, according to Cox. Officials have not identified the deceased man or the off-duty officer.

Suffolk County DA: 'Very chaotic situation'

Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said during the news conference that a "large number" of individuals and witnesses are being interviewed and cooperating with the ongoing investigation. The DA's office is also reviewing video evidence in and around the area where the shooting and alleged stabbing attack occurred, he added.

According to Hayden, investigators also believe that other individuals either know something, witnessed something or may have been involved in regards to the incident. The DA's office is asking those individuals to "step forward" because the investigation "needs the help," Hayden said.

"If we're going to get to the truth then we got to get to understanding what happened in this very chaotic situation," the district attorney said.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Police: Man with knife shot, killed by off-duty Boston police officer
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic Senator Ed Markey on Monday urged lawmakers to call SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and the acting head of the Federal Aviation Administration to testify about air traffic control IT systems.

Musk, a senior adviser to President Donald Trump and the owner of satellite company Starlink, has sharply criticized the current FAA telecom system amid reports that Starlink could interfere or take over a $2.4 billion telecommunications FAA contract with rival Verizon.

"The Commerce Committee has a responsibility to immediately hold a public hearing to investigate Musks claims on behalf of the American public," Markey said.

A spokesperson for Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz, the FAA and the White House did not immediately comment.

Senator Maria Cantwell, the top Democrat on the Commerce Committee, supports Markey's request for a hearing, a spokesperson said.

Democratic Representative Sharice Davids said Monday that "Elon Musks reported interference in a competitively awarded FAA contract is deeply concerning and raises serious questions about conflicts of interest."

The FAA in 2023 awarded Verizon a contract worth up to $2.4 billion over 15 years to design, build and operate the FAAs new next-generation communications platform.

The FAA said it has not made any decision on the contract but sources told Reuters last week the FAA is reviewing the document.

Democratic Senators Adam Schiff and Tammy Duckworth on Friday both raised questions about the FAA potentially awarding billions of dollars to private companies controlled by Musk while he serves as a government employee.

Musk on Thursday admitted he falsely accused Verizon of putting U.S. air safety at risk through a communications system that is actually operated by L3Harris.

Verizon, which operates the largest U.S. wireless network, said it is "at the beginning of a multi-year contract to replace antiquated, legacy systems."

Last week, the FAA said it was testing three Starlink terminals at a government facility in Alaska to address concerns about reliable weather information.

The FAA fired 350 employees last month as part of a DOGE-directed effort to shrink the government, including some safety-related positions.

A DOGE team of SpaceX engineers acting as special government employees visited FAA facilities last month.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Stephen Coates)
What Tehran thinks about America's moves in the Middle East By Aviram Bellaishe

web posted March 3, 2025 Approximately two weeks after his election, U.S. President Donald Trump created geopolitical tremors not only domestically, but also in Europe, and across the post-October 7, 2023, Middle East. His regional policies and Israel's response to the attacks against it suggest an intention to reshape global dynamicsan assessment echoed by leading Iranian commentators. They contend that the United States is planning a direct takeover of Gaza and Lebanon as part of a broader strategy of intervention in the Middle East. The objective is not merely economic dominance but also military control, allowing Washington to exert substantial influence over the region's security architecture. According to this perspective, an American military presence in Gaza is deemed inevitable due to several key factors. The first factor is Israel's inability to suppress Palestinian resistance. According to Iranian commentators, every attempt by Israel to quell Palestinian uprisings in the West Bank and Gaza has failed, ultimately undermining regional normalization initiatives. Now, with Israel's efforts to dismantle terrorist organizations proving unsuccessful, the United States finds itself compelled to intervene directly. The second factor concerns the failure to advance , which America envisioned to transform Israel into a gateway for Western powers into the Middle Eastmainly through the IndiaMiddle EastEurope Economic Corridor (IMEC) and normalization with Saudi Arabia. From this perspective, Hamas's "Al-Aqsa Flood" operation disrupted these plans by exposing Israel's limitations in controlling Gaza, thereby necessitating a more aggressive solution. Strategic Repercussions and U.S. Military Calculations Iranian analysts argue that Washington is also considering the forced displacement of Palestinians to Egypt and Jordana move that could destabilize these countries and threaten the regimes of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi in Egypt and King Abdullah II in Jordan. Should these regimes collapse, Israel would face a more significant strategic threat, which in turn would necessitate direct American military intervention. Additionally, the partial relocation of CENTCOM headquarters to Tel Aviv is interpreted as a logical extension of this strategy, designed to enhance America's regional operational capacity. Tehran recognizes that if Gaza is not integrated into a reconstruction framework, it could become an unpredictable and volatile force, potentially triggering renewed escalation and a significant counterstrike against both Israel and the United States. From an American perspective, this threat necessitates direct territorial control to enable tighter oversight. Alongside Gaza, Iranian analysts highlight Lebanon as another focal point where the United States is maneuvering for indirect dominance through a three-phase strategy aimed at establishing a permanent Western presence in the country. In the first phase, the United States will make an effort to establish a weak government that is not aligned with local political factions but operates under direct external influence. The second phase involves appointing high-ranking officials in Lebanon's security, judicial, and economic institutions who would advance pro-American interests and facilitate Hizbullah's disarmament. The third phase focuses on gaining control over strategic sectors, such as energy and telecommunications, thereby ensuring Lebanon's economic dependence on Western entities. The Role of Lebanon and U.S. Strategic Infrastructure Parallel to these measures, Iranian commentators emphasize the completion of the largest U.S. embassy in the Middle East, located in Beirut, which they perceive more as an intelligence and military hub than a conventional diplomatic facility. According to this analysis, the embassy will serve as a control center for intelligence operations and security monitoring throughout the Levant, particularly in Lebanon and Syria. Furthermore, establishing a private port under American supervision is another step toward securing dominance over Lebanon's maritime transport arteries. Ultimately, Iranian analysts assert that these actions align with a broader U.S. effort to weaken Hizbullah and dismantle Palestinian refugee camps under the pretext of improving living conditions and ensuring stability in Lebanon. According to these projections, this trajectory is expected to culminate in an official visit by Trump to Beirut and the grand opening of the new U.S. embassyan event that Iranian commentators interpret as a formal declaration of direct American presence in Lebanon. These developments, they argue, are merely one component of a larger interventionist agenda extending to Iraq, Yemen, and even Iran itself. The Indirect War Iranian analysts perceive these developments as indicative of a new form of warfare that is waged indirectly yet significantly reshapes the regional landscape. In their view, U.S. involvement in Gaza and Lebanon should not be analyzed solely within the framework of Trump's or former President Joe Biden's policies. Rather, U.S. involvement must be understood as part of a long-term strategic endeavor to create a new security and economic reality that serves Washington's interests and its allies. From Tehran's perspective, American involvement across the region is not a series of isolated measures but part of a comprehensive strategy designed to consolidate regional hegemony and weaken any forces opposing Western influence. This narrative is not solely directed at Iran's direct alliessuch as Hizbullah, the Houthis, Shiite militias, and Hamasbut also appears to be a broader attempt to engage Moscow and Beijing. The underlying message is that Trump's return to power is not merely a regional issue but a calculated step within a broader American strategy aimed at curbing Russian and Chinese influence in the Middle East and undermining their economic and security stability. In this context, the Iranian portrayal of "American dominance" is not only a warning against direct military action but also a potentially desperate psychological toolparticularly since Trump's electiondesigned to pressure global actors who oppose or fear American hegemony in the Middle East. Aviram Bellaishe, a leading expert in regional geopolitics, Middle Eastern affairs, and Arabic language and culture, served for 27 years in Israel's security apparatus. He gained extensive experience in negotiations, operating mechanisms of influence and perception, and developing strategic and international collaborations. His professional achievements earned him three prestigious excellence awards from the head of the security directorate. After his discharge, Bellaishe transitioned to commercial, economic, and technological cooperation with Arab countries, leveraging his expertise to expand business and financial partnerships in the region. He served as the Head of the Middle East and North Africa Department at the law firm Doron, Tikotzky, Kantor, Gutman, Amit, Gross & Co., and as Co-CEO of the firm's commercial arm. Additionally, he managed the "Israeli Peace Initiative" steering committee for several years and currently serves on the executive committee of Mena2050, an organization dedicated to advancing regional cooperation. Bellaishe holds a bachelor's and master's degree in law (with honors), specializing in conflict resolution and mediation. He is a doctoral candidate focusing on consciousness engineering and religious propaganda, with an emphasis on studying influence mechanisms in the Arab world. His extensive experience and unique expertise position him as a key figure in regional dialogue and cooperation efforts. Home
President Donald Trump directed his administration to "pause" military aid to Ukraine after the contentious meeting in the Oval Office with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.

Trump on Tuesday to put in place historic tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada, along with increased duties on goods from China. The move drew retaliations from Canada and China.

The president is scheduled on Tuesday to address a joint session of Congress, as his second administration moves to recast the federal government, implement "America First" policies and redefine U.S. support for Ukraine.





Latest Developments





Mar 4, 3:57 PM

2nd Republican to vote no on short-term funding measure

Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., said he is a no vote on any continuing resolution despite President Donald Trump and top GOP leaders endorsing a clean stopgap measure to fund the government until the end of September.



Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, also said he will vote against a continuing resolution.

PHOTO: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson speaks during a news conference at the Republican National Committee after a meeting of the House Republican Conference, Mar. 4, 2025 in Washington. (Tierney L. Cross/Getty Images)

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., can only afford to lose one Republican if all members are voting and present and will almost certainly need to rely on Democratic votes to avert a government shutdown.



The deadline to fund the government is March 14.



-ABC News' Lauren Peller





Mar 4, 4:08 PM

Americans will 'have to suck it up' amid federal layoffs, Republican senator says

Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., said Americans will "have to suck it up" as President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency lay off hundreds of thousands of federal workers.



"There's going to be some tough times," Tuberville told ABC News' Diane Macedo when asked about DOGE's impact. "We have to cut the fat out of out of spending in this country."

PHOTO: Sen. Tommy Tuberville speaks with ABC News from Washington, Mar. 4, 2025. (ABC News)

Tuberville also addressed Trump's tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, saying that "there's going to be a little bit of pain" as the move threatens to drive up prices on groceries, gas and more. "But at the end of the day, if we don't do this, it's going to be much, much worse."



He also voiced his support for Trump's pause on all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, saying he hasn't "voted for any money to go to it because Ukraine can't beat Russia."



-ABC News' Jim Vojtech and David Merrell





Mar 4, 2:50 PM

Trump to meet with hard-liners as shutdown deadline approaches



President Donald Trump will meet with a group of House Republican hard-liners Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the White House to discuss a path forward on government funding as the March 14 shutdown deadline approaches, two congressional sources and one White House official told ABC News.



Trump and top GOP leaders have endorsed a "clean" short-term bill to fund the government until the end of September 2025. However, hard-liners typically despise continuing resolutions, and 34 opposed the short-term measure that's currently funding the government.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on March 3, 2025. (Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images)

-ABC News' Lauren Peller, Hannah Demissie and Katherine Faulders





Mar 4, 2:34 PM

US, Ukraine could agree to mineral deal as soon as Tuesday

The United States and Ukraine could sign the minerals deal as soon as Tuesday, according to two sources briefed on the discussions.



The deal was originally expected to be signed Friday at the White House, but talks quickly went downhill, and Trump kicked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy out of the White House without completing the agreement.

PHOTO: A dragline excavator operates in an open-pit titanium mine in the Zhytomyr region, Feb. 28, 2025. (Roman Pilipey/AFP via Getty Images)

Sources caution that nothing is final. However, Trump has indicated to top advisers he would like to get the deal done before his joint address to Congress.



-ABC News' Katherine Faulders and Molly Nagle





Mar 4, 2:17 PM

Senate Democrats blast Trump's 1st month in office ahead of joint address



Senate Democrats blasted President Donald Trump's first month in office ahead of his address to a joint session of Congress, gathering for a news conference on Tuesday while holding up photos of the guests they're bringing to the speech, including fired bureaucrats and others who have been negatively affected by the White House's moves to slash the federal workforce.



"We think one of the best ways to let the American people know how horrible Donald Trump's first 30 days have been is to bring those who have been affected, the victims of his malevolence, of his desire, the tax breaks for the billionaires and make Americans pay for it," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate steps.

PHOTO: Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer and fellow Senate Democrats hold photographs of constituents they say are negatively impacted by President Donald Trump's actions during his first month at U.S. Capitol, Mar. 4, 2025 in Washington. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

"Americans who voted for the president didn't sign up for this. They wanted lower costs. ... What is the State of the Union, we ask? Chaos is up, corruption is up, and costs are up for regular people," Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., added.



-ABC News' Isabella Murray





Mar 4, 2:03 PM

Senate Republican says aid to Ukraine should be restored

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., is wearing his Ukraine pin and a navy blue suit with yellow tie ahead of President Donald Trump's address to the joint session of Congress.



Tillis is a staunch ally of Ukraine who has become increasingly outspoken about his support for the country as the riff between Ukraine and the Trump administration has widened.

PHOTO: Poles and members of the Ukrainian diaspora take part in a rally in front of the US embassy in Warsaw, Mar. 3, 2025. (Wojtek Radwanski/AFP via Getty Images)

"I'm trying to figure out what it would feel like to have been the head of state for a country that has experienced systematic murder rape, kidnapping and torture of tens of thousands of people, and I actually think somebody under that pressure should be given a little bit of leeway when it comes to addressing frustration," Tillis said.



-ABC News' Allison Pecorin





Mar 4, 1:32 PM

Trump administration backs off memo ordering mass firings after court ruling

The Office of Personnel Management has revised its Jan. 20 memo to federal agencies about probationary employees -- now writing that "OPM is not directing agencies to take any specific performance-based actions regarding probationary employees."

PHOTO: A view shows the logo of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), after probationary staff at the OPM were fired in a conference call and given less than an hour to leave the building, outside OPM in Washington, D.C., Feb. 13, 2025. (Tierney L. Cross/Reuters)

"Agencies have ultimate decisionmaking authority over, and responsibility for, such personnel actions," read the memo, which came after a federal judge ruled last week that the OPM's initial directive to terminate temporary employees was illegal.



An OPM spokesperson did not respond to questions about how this change affects workers who have already been fired -- or if this is meant to bring the government's directives in line with the new ruling.



-ABC News' Katherine Faulders and Benjamin Siegel





Mar 4, 1:32 PM

Thune said he views tariff policy through a 'different lens' than Trump

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said Tuesday that he views tariff policy through a "different lens" than President Donald Trump because of the economic impact that tariffs have on his home state of South Dakota.



"I think the president is looking at this as a means to an end. I don't think it is the end itself. I certainly hope it isn't," Thune said during an appearance on CNN.

PHOTO: Senate Majority Leader John Thune accompanied by Sens. Tom Cotton, Shelley Moore Capito, Sen. John Hoeven and Sen. James Lankford speaks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol, Feb. 25, 2025 in Washington. (Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

He predicted the markets will stabilize but conceded the potential for rising costs for consumers is an "issue."



-ABC News' Allison Pecorin





Mar 4, 1:32 PM

Trump says retaliatory tariff on US will raise reciprocal tariffs

President Donald Trump said retaliatory tariffs on the United States will lead him to raise reciprocal tariffs by 25% on Canada.



"Please explain to Governor Trudeau, of Canada, that when he puts on a Retaliatory Tariff on the U.S., our Reciprocal Tariff will immediately increase by a like amount!" Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social Tuesday afternoon.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump, Mar. 3, 2025 and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Mar. 4, 2025. (Reuters/AP)





Mar 4, 1:15 PM

House Democratic women wearing pink to protest Trump's joint address





The Democratic Women's Caucus Chairwoman, Teresa Leger Fernandez, told ABC News the caucus is calling on women to wear pink at the president's joint address on Tuesday because it is the "color of power and protest."







"It has been used in protest against Trump, and it's been used in protest against Putin, and it is, I think, an affirmation that women are strong," Fernandez said. "This is a color that immediately pops as associated with women, both our power and our purpose."

PHOTO: Rep. Hillary Scholten speaks during a news conference held by the Democratic Women's Caucus at the U.S. Capitol, Mar. 4, 2025 in Washington. (Tierney L. Cross/Getty Images)

"In our beautiful tapestry, we are united against Trump," she added.



-ABC News' Arthur Jones II

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
Ronny Suarez, left, and Saul Ramirez Guvara were arrested last week for allegedly sex trafficking a 15-year-old teen girl.

Two North Carolina men were arrested last week on charges that they kidnapped and sex trafficked a 15-year-old girl when cops caught the creeps with the teen after issuing an Amber Alert.

The teenager disappeared from her home on Feb. 21, prompting a search by the Siler City Police Department, who brought in state authorities and the FBI on Tuesday, the department said on Facebook.

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation joined the investigation and authorities found the girl with a 23-year-old man, Ronny Suearez, about 20 miles away from her Siler City home Thursday.

Saul Ramirez Guvara, 26, was arrested at a North Carolina Quality Inn hotel and charged with trafficking a 15-year-old. NCSBI

Ronny Suearez, 23, was charged with kidnapping and sex trafficking after cops said they found him with a missing 15-year-old girl in North Carolina. NCSBI

Two suspects were quickly identified, the state agency said. [Criminal Apprehension Team] assets were deployed to the cities of Asheboro and Kingston, where Ronny Suarez and the 15-year-old female were located at 129 W. Strider Street in Asheboro.

Police said they then tracked the second suspect, Saul Ramirez Guvara, 26, to a Quality Inn hotel in nearby Kinston.

The victim had reportedly met her kidnappers through social media, according to WCCB-TV in Charlotte.

Both men are now being held at the Chatham County Jail on charges including first-degree kidnapping, human trafficking of a child, and soliciting a child by computer, police said.

The case was one of two teen trafficking crimes that led to Amber Alerts in the state last week.

On Tuesday, cops issued an alert in Harnett County after another 15-year-old girl was snatched by a pair of creeps, the outlet reported.

Elihue Martin Mahler, 31, of Virginia Beach, and Austyn Lee Cole, 23, of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, were both charged with kidnapping and trafficking charges after an Amber Alert in that case on Tuesday.

If you have been sexually assaulted and live in New York, you can call 1-800-942-6906 for free and confidential crisis counseling. If you live outside the state, you can dial the 24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
Mardi Gras comes to a close on Tuesday night, and soon, those who celebrate will exclaim Laissez les bons temps rouler, or Let the good times roll for the last time this Carnival season.

Its a phrase often said during Mardi Gras celebrations as revelers enjoy the vibrant colors and the laughter of loved ones surrounding them, said Adrienne Webber, dean of the Digital Library and Learning Commons at Grambling State University in Louisiana.

Webber, a New Orleans native, said Mardi Gras isnt just a party but a cultural celebration in Louisiana. Mardi Gras allows people to celebrate before the Lenten season, where people become more disciplined and give up habits for 40 days.

Its a pre-Lent party to go into something that is very sacred to many people, she told USA TODAY. Its a time to rejoice. Its a time to express yourself.

Heres the rundown on Mardi Gras, or Fat Tuesday, and how it came to be.

March 2025 holiday schedule: Mardi Gras, Daylight saving time, St. Patrick's Day, more

How did Mardi Gras begin?

Many people mistakenly believe that Mardi Gras is just one day, said Christy Garrison-Harrison, an assistant professor of history and women, gender, and sexuality studies at Southern University and A&M College.

But Mardi Gras is an entire season, often called Carnival. It begins 12 days after Christmas on Jan. 6 and lasts until Fat Tuesday, or the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.

Mardi Gras began in medieval Europe, starting in Rome and making its way to France, she told USA TODAY Friday afternoon. The tradition then made its way through the colonies, and around 1699, French Canadians arrived in what is now Mobile, Alabama, Garrison-Harrison said.

A rider hands out a coconut as the over 1,100 riders of the Krewe of Zulu make their way down St. Charles Avenue on Mardi Gras Day with their 44-float parade entitled "Celebrations and Libations Zulu Style" on February 13, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. #King Zulu 2024 Melvin Labat Queen Angelique Roche# The Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club stages the parade, which is known for its signature hand-decorated coconuts and an eclectic cast of characters like Big Shot, Witch Doctor, and Mr. Big Stuff.

Back then, people celebrated Boeuf Gras, meaning fatted calf. Its a time for people to enjoy things such as fatty foods, sugar, alcohol and other items considered decadent. Theyd give themselves until the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, or what is often called Fat Tuesday, to indulge.

In the early colony days, an actual calf or an animal would be rolled down the street or paraded in the community to symbolize, This is what were giving up. Were going to sacrifice this calf or this bull or this animal, and we're going to feast, she said.

This period was also known as a time of extreme fasting, said Sarah McDonald, a spokesperson for the Archdiocese of New Orleans.

People were encouraged to use up butter, oil, and meat products and not have them on hand because they could not be eaten during Lent  hence (how) Fat Tuesday got its name, she told USA TODAY this week.

The next day marked the beginning of abstinence from those items or the Lenten season.

Krewes, parades, and souvenirs

Mardi Gras celebrations feature parades that kick off as early as January, while the largest parades happen on Fat Tuesday, according to Webber from Grambling State.

Webber said that groups, called krewes, organize parades and distribute beads featuring characters such as kings and witch doctors. Krewes also host masquerade balls, which include kings and queens.

A member of the Zulu parade holds a pair of coconuts on Mardi Gras day, February 5, 2008 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Mardi Gras day, or Fat Tuesday, is a celebration the day before Lent begins on the Christian calendar.

A member of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club displays a gold coconut with the words "who dat" during Mardi Gras day on February 16, 2010 in New Orleans, Louisiana

Krewes also hand out signature items specific to their group, such as themed coconuts that are brightly decorated with glitter and paint, chalices, and shoes, said Webber.

Everybody wants to get a coconut, she said. It is very much so one of the most sought-after Mardi Gras souvenirs.

Which food is considered unique to Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is not complete without a sugary, sweet and colorful king cake. Originally part of a Christian tradition, king cakes celebrate the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem, also known as Epiphany.

A King Cake from Lilah's Bakery in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Over time, the king cake has taken many forms. The classic French version, the galette des rois, is a puff pastry cake usually filled with frangipanea sweet cream made from almonds, butter, sugar, and eggs. Today, the modern New Orleans-style king cakes are shaped like rings and covered in purple, yellow and green sugar. In both versions, small charms, usually plastic baby figurines that represent Jesus, are hidden somewhere in the cake, and the person who finds the charm will have good luck and the task of bringing a king cake to the next party.

Mardi Gras is for families too, experts say

Garrison-Harrison, from Southern University and A&M College, said people travel to New Orleans from all over the world to celebrate Mardi Gras under the impression that they can show up and behave in a way they wouldnt in their own communities.

They attribute it to believing that  New Orleans is a place where anything goes, she said.

While theres excess drinking and inappropriate behavior during the Mardi Gras season, thats not all there is to it, and it isnt exclusive to New Orleans, according to Garrison-Harrison. There are social and religious components to Mardi Gras.

It was this idea of partying or socializing or celebrating because you were, in essence, going to go into 40 days of self-denial and preparation to celebrate Easter as the understanding of Jesus arising, she said.

She also said Mardi Gras allows community members to incorporate African, Indigenous, Creole and Latin cultures, among others.

Some of the krewes in Louisiana, such as the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club, were formed over 100 years ago because Blacks were not allowed to attend parades due to segregation, she said. Krewes were sometimes formed in response to other groups that mocked Black and Indigenous people.

McDonald, from the Archdiocese of New Orleans, said Carnival and Mardi Gras are also seasons for families to celebrate the unique culture of New Orleans.

That is often lost in the coverage of the risque in the French Quarter and other neighborhoods, she said.

This story has been updated to add information.

Contributors: Rachel Taylor

Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAYs NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia  the 757. Email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Mardi Gras: What to know about Fat Tuesday and how it got its start
Tornadoes are among the most destructive forces of nature, with the power to wipe out entire neighborhoods in minutes. The first tornado forecast was issued on March 25, 1948, a time when they were considered "not forecastable." Fast-forward more than 70 years, and people receive alerts on their phones when there is a tornado threat for their precise location.

Here are 10 facts about some of the biggest, strongest and deadliest tornadoes in history:

On March 18, 1925, a tornado began its path of destruction in southeastern Missouri through the south of Illinois and Indiana. It covered 219 miles in three hours, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

It killed nearly 700 people and is considered the longest-lasting tornado on record.

Ruins of the De Soto, Illinois, public school where 33 children were killed during the 1925 Tri-State Tornado. (NOAA)

The biggest tornado ever recorded touched down near El Reno, Oklahoma, on May 31, 2013, reaching a width of 2.6 miles and packing winds of 302 mph. Previously, the record was held by a tornado that hit Hallam, Nebraska, in 2004, which was 2.5 miles wide.

In this May 31, 2013 file photo a tornado forms near Banner Road and Praire Circle in El Reno, Okla. The weather service says the twister's 2.6-mile width is the widest ever recorded. (AP Photo/Alonzo Adams, File)

Amid a severe tornado outbreak across the South from April 25-28, 2011, a reported 207 tornadoes touched down on April 27 alone.

The tornadoes on April 27 swept through states including Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Virginia, killing 319 people and injuring 2,839 others, the NWS said, making it the fourth-worst tornado event in a single day in terms of fatalities.

Four of the more than 200 tornadoes that wreaked havoc on that date were rated as powerful EF5s on the Enhanced Fujita Scale.

A tornado's duration can be anywhere from a brief moment or two, to over an hour, depending on its strength and the atmospheric conditions fueling the storm. However, the average tornado remains on the ground for about five minutes, according to NOAA's National Severe Storms Laboratory.

Although tornadoes aren't limited to any specific part of the world, there's no record thus far of tornadoes happening on Earth's southernmost continent.

A tornado occurrence in Antarctica isn't impossible; however, they need warm, moisture-rich air to develop, making them very unlikely to spin up over the continent.

While extremely rare, Alaska has had several tornadoes, although they have all been weak, short-lived and caused little damage.

Tornado Alley is infamous for massive tornadoes, but destructive twisters can happen anywhere in the country.

On May 31, 1985, a tornado outbreak in Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York killed 89 people and injured over 1,000 others. The strongest and deadliest was an F5 that was on the ground for over an hour, starting in Portage County, Ohio, and tearing a 47-mile path eastward before lifting near Mercer, Pennsylvania.

Tornado's war-like path is obvious as the sun slowly sets in Atlantic, Pennsylvania, May 31, 1985, after twister all but leveled the small town, leaving five dead and dozens injured. About a dozen homes were flattened, and most of those remaining were severely damaged. At least 22 were killed in eight western Pennsylvania counties. (AP Photo/Meadville Tribune/Ed Maillard)

An F4 tornado also roared through central Pennsylvania, destroying countless trees across several counties and leaving a scar on the landscape that was still evident decades later.

While most people are familiar with Tornado Alley, the wide stretch of tornado-prone areas in states including Texas and Oklahoma, a secondary tornado alley is also known for deadly tornadoes across the Southeast. Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama and South and North Carolina are some of the states that lie within this active tornado zone.

This area is closer to the Gulf, which provides ample fuel for tornado-producing storms in the form of moisture-rich air. Additionally, there are more trees across the Southeast than the central U.S., making it more difficult to see approaching tornadoes.

Researchers have determined the frequency of tornadoes has been increasing east of classic Tornado Alley in recent years, with tornado-producing storms becoming more common across the Gulf Coast states and Mississippi Valley.

Tornado and severe thunderstorm outbreaks are most common in March, April and May, the time of year known to meteorologists as severe weather season.

An alaysis by AccuWeather found that May 25 is the peak day of tornado season, having more tornado reports than any other day of the year between 1950 and 2020.

Tornadoes can occur at any time, but they're most likely to happen between 4 and 9 p.m., according to the National Severe Storms Laboratory.

Nighttime tornadoes are among the most dangerous, as they happen under the cover of darkness making them impossible to see as they approach. Additionally, people who are sleeping may not be aware of tornado warnings issued ahead of dangerous storms.

John Bernhardt searches for his belongings outside his stormed damaged home Thursday, May 9, 2024, in Columbia, Tenn. Severe storms tore through the central and southeast U.S., Wednesday, spawning damaging tornadoes, producing massive hail, and killing several people in Tennessee. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

The U.S. leads the world for the most tornadoes with a historical average of more than 1,200 annually. Most of these whirlwinds occur between March and June, but they can happen on any day of the year when the weather conditions are right.

The geography of the U.S. is what makes it prone to so many twisters, as cold air diving southward across the Great Plains clashing with warm, moist air from the Gulf provides many of the ingredients necessary for tornado formation.
juan sanchez killed catalytic converter comp image

A young grandfather was fatally shot while attempting to confront catalytic converter thieves outside his California home  just moments after he tried to flag down help, according to authorities and footage.

Juan Sanchez, 48, was leaving his Inglewood home for work at 3:22 a.m. last Tuesday when he sprang into action to try to stop thieves by his neighbors car, according to doorcam footage obtained by ABC 7.

Sanchez approached the thieves as one of them crawled under a vehicle with a saw and threatened Sanchez with a metal bar, according to the footage.

The footage showed one suspect under a vehicle using a saw to steal a catalytic converter before threatening Sanchez with a metal bar. The Sanchez Family

As the violent confrontation unfolded, Sanchez waved frantically at a fire engine, believed to be an LA County vehicle, as it drove down the street and out of view, the troubling video showed.

Seconds later, Sanchez was shot in the chest and killed, according to the Inglewood Police Department.

The suspects, believed to be in a gold 2002-2006 Toyota Camry, then sped off down the street, cops said

Sanchez was recently promoted for wrapping up a project in the Palisades Fire zone. The Sanchez Family

Sanchez was described as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a cherished friend to so many.

My brother frantically waves them down, and they drove past my brother, and about two seconds later, he was shot in the chest, Sanchezs sister, Susana Sanchez, told ABC 7.

Its upsetting. Its just a thought of what couldve happened at that moment, they were right next to my brother, if they would have stopped, they wouldve saved a life, Susana said.

Its been a very difficult time trying to understand how somebody could do this to another human being, Juans sister Susana said. KABC

We have many more questions, the grieving sister said. From the criminals  just finding justice. From the fire department  why didnt you stop? Or why didnt you return as soon as you heard the gunshot when you were at the end of the block? Susana told the outlet.

Its been a very difficult time trying to understand how somebody could do this to another human being, she said.

One of the suspects was described as a heavy-set Hispanic man, around 5 feet 4 to 5 feet 6. The second suspect, who was driving the getaway vehicle, was only described as a man, according to information and photos released by police.

Sanchez was described as a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and a cherished friend to so many. The Sanchez Family

Sanchez was an employee at Clean Harbors, an environmental and industrial service company, his family told the outlet. He was just recently promoted after completing a project in the Palisades Fire zone.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, two wonderful children, and his precious grandchild, according to the fundraiser, which had raised nearly $40,000 as of Monday morning.
Starmer told Europe's leaders they must all "step up" to help achieve and enforce peace. - Justin Tallis/Pool/AFP/Getty Images

The West is at a crossroads in history, Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer told European leaders at a pivotal summit in London on Sunday, as the continent sought to wrestle control of negotiations over the Russia-Ukraine war away from the US and present a united front amid a meltdown in relations between Kyiv and Washington.

This is not a moment for more talk. Its time to act, Starmer said after a monumental day of diplomacy in London, which saw leaders on the continent attempt to forge a path towards a ceasefire in Ukraine.

The urgency of the summit in Londons ornate Lancaster House was heightened after US President Donald Trump chastised Zelensky in the Oval Office, appalling the West and delighting Moscow in the process. Zelensky and an ensemble of European leaders were in attendance, at a moment of intense anxiety in the conflict.

Starmer told reporters he was working with France and a small number of other nations to craft a plan to stop the fighting, which would then be presented to the US.

French President Emmanuel Macron outlined the contours of such a plan in an interview with Le Figaro, saying that France and the United Kingdom have proposed a month-long limited ceasefire in Ukraine.

The initial phase of a French-British alternative peace deal for Ukraine would involve a month-long truce in the air, on the seas and energy infrastructures, according to Macron speaking to the French outlet. The second phase, he said, would involve troops on the ground. CNN has reached out to Downing Street for comment.

The plan seems destined to rival the negotiation process that Trumps administration opened with Russia last month, and suggests a tacit acceptance that bringing Trump and Zelensky to the negotiating table together could result in tensions combusting once more.

King Charles III met Zelensky at the Sandringham on Sunday. - Joe Giddens/PA

But it would still require American support, Starmer again reiterated during a Sunday press conference. He insisted the US was not an unreliable ally after Trumps extraordinary argument with Zelensky deeply spooked Europe.

The West will hope Sundays summit has revived momentum in a peace process that appeared to be slowly building this week, only to come crashing down in those nasty few minutes on Friday. It displayed European unity, and several leaders in attendance sought to correct a narrative that the continent was a bystander in the negotiations to end the war.

In the end, a deal will have to involve Russia, of course it will, but we cant approach this on the basis that Russia dictates the terms of any security guarantee before weve even got to a deal  otherwise, we wont make any progress at all, Starmer said.

The UK and France have been attempting to put together a coalition of the willing that would enter Ukraine after a deal is agreed. If a deal is done, it has to be a deal that is then defended, Starmer said.

Zelensky applauded Sundays summit on X, saying that Europes unity is at an exceptionally high level, one that has not been seen in a long time. In a separate statement, Zelensky said a potential peace deal should start with a prisoner exchange, and the return of children. This, he said, would demonstrate Russias true intention for peace.

Macron told Le Figaro that the advantage of the French-British proposed ceasefire is that it is easy to monitor. We know how to measure it, he said, adding: in the event of a ceasefire, it would be very difficult to verify that the front is respected.

Macron, who the outlet reports spoke with Trump on Friday, told Le Figaro that there will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks. The French newspaper also wrote that Macron does not believe in a ceasefire signed between the US and Russia because he is convinced that Vladimir Putin will seek to humiliate Ukraine.

Zelensky said he was aware of everything when asked if he knew about the proposal. He did not say whether he agreed to the proposed ceasefire.

Nobody wants to see that

Zelensky enjoyed a heartfelt welcome from Starmer on Saturday that could not be more different than the reception he endured at the White House. King Charles also met with Zelensky at his Sandringham estate on Sunday.

The earlier spectacle of the American president and vice president berating the leader of a war-torn ally added intensity to Sundays summit, which had initially been convened by Starmer to build on the progress achieved during a similar meeting in Paris last weekend.

Trump and JD Vance accused Zelensky of being ungrateful for American military support, for gambling with the lives of millions of people, and risking World War III by fighting Russias invading army in his country.

The scenes were Europes worst nightmare. Nobody wants to see that, Starmer told the BBC on Sunday. He said he hit the phones as soon as he watched the furious argument, adding: My driving purpose has been to bridge this.

Ukraines leader will return to Kyiv with more than just warm words. On Saturday Britain announced an agreement to accelerate $2.8 billion worth of loans to Ukraine. The first tranche of funding is expected to be disbursed next week, according to the UK government.

In a Telegram post on Saturday, Zelensky said the money will go toward the production of weapons in Ukraine. This is the fair way: the one who started the war should pay. He added that the loan will strengthen our defense capabilities.

Then on Sunday, Starmer announced a new deal that allows Ukraine to use 1.6 billion ($2 billion) of UK export finance to buy more than 5,000 advanced air defense missiles, which would be made in Belfast.

A once-in-a-generation moment

We gather here today because this is a once-in-a-generation moment for the security of Europe and we all need to step up, Starmer told leaders as he opened Sundays summit.

The meeting will have three goals, Downing Street said: Ukraines short-term needs, securing a lasting deal to end the conflict, and planning for strong security guarantees.

I hope you know that we are all with you and the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes, everyone around this table, Starmer told Zelensky during his opening remarks.

Starmer and Macron speak at the Sunday summit. - Toby Melville/Pool/AFP/Getty Images

French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadas outgoing leader Justin Trudeau, and the heads of several European countries, the European Union and NATO were all present.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni told Starmer on Sunday it is very, very important that we avoid the risk that the West divides over the war in Ukraine.

The two leaders may prove vital in corralling a peace process; both have developed strong relationships with Trump, and will be expected to use that influence to convince the president to listen to Europes proposals.

CNNs Saskya Vandoorne, Catherine Nicholls, Svitlana Vlasova, Gul Tuysuz and Brice Laine contributed to this story.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Sat.Ones long journey to become the local go-to enterprise low Earth orbit satellite (LEO) provider, began with the invasion of Ukraine, but has since borne fruit through key partnerships with local telecommunication providers.

Since signing up Orange Business as a partner in November 2024, the Perth-based satellite service provider has also started working with telco companies like Vocus and Telstra and is in early days of discussion with Optus.

Sat.One CEO Daniel Fairbairn, told ARN he was finally seeing the hard-earned results of four hard years since the companys launch in 2021, that same year was also earmarked for the launch of its LEO satellites. However, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and subsequent war coincided with the fourteenth launch of its constellation in the country. The LEO satellites where then taken by President Putin.

On the fourteenth launch of our constellation build, he stole the launch 14 rocket and payload. [President Putin] still has those satellites in a warehouse, which nobody can touch because you can imagine the risk, he said. We lost 11 months in the market and 11 months when it comes to LEO satellites is basically a lifetime, and within those 11 months, Starlink pretty much landed in Australia, giving them first mover advantage.

According to Fairbairn Sat.One started all over again and re-entered with business grade products, through its partnership with European-founded Eutelsat OneWeb and at times, it had to also justify itself against a consumer product.

This was early days of Starlink, he said. Weve worked tirelessly over a very long time, over a lot of blood, sweat and tears, providing a way of combining LEO satellites and giving the customer high availability at enterprise grade level.
Today's news: Gaza aid blocked while negotiations stall; Vietnam wants to introduce Starlink to guarantee internet connection throughout the country; Four Chinese arrested in the Philippines for spying make donations to a city and the local police; In India, elephants are being replaced with mechanical pachyderms; Bullying on the rise in Kyrgyzstan.

MYANMAR

The head of the Burmese coup army, General Min Aung Hlaing, has today flown to Russia, where he will meet President Vladimir Putin. According to statements released by the Myanmar state media, the two will discuss trade and security ties with the aim of strengthening strategic cooperation. Meanwhile, the Arakan Army has attacked the naval base of Kyaukphyu, in Rakhine State, one of the last outposts controlled by the army that hosts some Chinese infrastructure projects.

VIETNAM

Vietnam's Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chinh, said recently that the government intends to issue a licence for Starlink, Elon Musk's satellite technology to guarantee internet connection throughout the country. At a meeting held in Hanoi with representatives from dozens of US companies, Chinh added that Vietnam will adopt a series of measures to rebalance the trade surplus with the United States, in an attempt to avoid being hit by the imposition of tariffs by President Donald Trump.

PHILIPPINES  CHINA

Four Chinese citizens arrested by the Philippines for espionage at the end of January were part of groups linked to the Chinese Communist Party that aimed to influence Manila's policy, according to an investigation by Reuters. The men made donations to the city of Tarlac, which also hosts a US military base, and to the police force in 2022, but the reasons for these actions are unclear.

INDIA

An animal rights organisation that protects elephants has funded the creation of dozens of mechanical pachyderms to be used in Hindu temples to spare the animals from abuse. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has stated that a luxury model costs 5,500 dollars. In India there are frequent fatal accidents in which frightened elephants lose control. The Asian elephant species, which has 50,000 specimens, is also at risk of extinction.

GAZA  ISRAEL

Egypt and Qatar have criticised Israel for blocking (once again) humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, stressing that this is a violation of the ceasefire, the first phase of which ended at midnight on Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Hamas was stealing humanitarian aid to finance its terror machine and blamed the group for not wanting to extend phase one of the agreement.

RUSSIA  USA

While the Trump-Zelenskyj quarrel was being played out in Washington, a new round of negotiations was held in Istanbul between Russia and the USA, at a diplomatic level with productive results, agreeing on unhindered funding of embassies and continuing dialogue through them, also considering the reopening of direct flights between the two countries.

KYRGYZSTAN

The phenomenon of bullying in schools is worsening in Kyrgyzstan, and in the first two months of the year several children have already died following fights and beatings, as well as some adolescent suicides, with many anguished protests on social media, particularly after the death of 12-year-old Annas Ajtbaev, who remained in a coma for two weeks in hospital, and the doctors were unable to save him, partly because they had not been told that he had been beaten.
The gesture took place a few days ago during a visit to Shanghai by a delegation from the diocese of Hong Kong. Card. Chow said: The shrine of Our Lady of Sheshan is of immense importance for the Church in China and it was significant to pray alongside Bishop Shen for the Holy Father. The hope for closer pastoral collaboration between the ecclesial communities of the two cosmopolitan metropolises.

Hong Kong (AsiaNews) - The Bishop of Shanghai, Msgr. Joseph Shen Bin, and Card. Stephen Chow, Bishop of Hong Kong, prayed together for the health of Pope Francis at the shrine of Our Lady of Sheshan, the place most dear to the devotion of Chinese Catholics. It happened on Tuesday 25th February, during a five-day visit that the cardinal - a bridge figure in the relationship between Rome and the Catholic communities of mainland China - made to Shanghai in recent days.

The news was reported on the website of the Hong Kong Catholic weekly Sunday Examiner in an article published today at the end of the visit. The news of the joint prayer for the pontiff is a significant gesture: as you may remember, Mons. Shen Bin was the prelate who in April 2023 was transferred to Shanghai by the Beijing government in a unilateral move that caused a crisis in relations with the Vatican, which was then resolved by Francis in July of the same year with the ratification of his appointment. Shen Bin is also the president of the Chinese Bishops' Council, the official collegial body recognised by the Beijing government but not by Rome; as such, from tomorrow he will take part in the Two Sessions, the most important annual political event of the Chinese Communist Party.

At the Sheshan shrine the two prelates concelebrated a mass together with the auxiliary bishop of Hong Kong, Monsignor Joseph Ha Chi-shing, and the vicar general, Father Peter Choy Wai-man. Deacon Gamaliel Cheng, spiritual director of the Central Council of Catholic Laity in Hong Kong, assisted at the liturgy, while Mrs Susanna Ching Chi-man, president of the Council of the Laity, read the readings. The celebration began with the two bishops leading the assembly in the prayer to Our Lady of Sheshan, an important devotion in the history of the Catholic Church in China. This experience was truly unique, commented Cardinal Chow. I was sincerely touched and found myself in tears during the prayer. This place is immensely important for the Church in China, and it was significant to pray for the Holy Father together with Bishop Shen.

The visit of the delegation from the diocese of Hong Kong to the Catholic community of Shanghai follows the two previous ones made to Beijing and Guangdong in the last two years: aimed at promoting greater mutual understanding and collaboration, it included joint liturgical celebrations, pastoral exchanges and interreligious dialogues. Beginning on 24 February at the Cathedral of St Ignatius in Xujiahui, it also included a visit to Tangzhen Church, one of Shanghai's pilgrimage sites for the Jubilee Year, and the Sheshan Seminary.

Reflecting on the visit, Cardinal Stephen expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality and openness shown by the Diocese of Shanghai. I believe the Shanghai diocese appreciated our visit and I look forward to a reciprocal visit to the Hong Kong diocese in the future, he told the Sunday Examiner. The cardinal also observed that the Shanghai diocese maintains a delicate balance between the Church and civil society and encouraged the Church in Hong Kong to approach dialogue with different sectors with an open and collaborative spirit.

Auxiliary Bishop Ha, for his part, emphasised the similarities between Hong Kong and Shanghai, both cosmopolitan cities facing the challenge of evangelisation and the development of pastoral ministries, especially for communities with different languages, in urban environments. He spoke of the possibilities for collaboration between the two dioceses in the areas of pastoral care and faith formation.

During the visit the delegation also visited several places of worship of other religious traditions, including the Songjiang Mosque, the Centre for the Practice of Christian Sinicisation, the Longhua Buddhist Temple and the Cheng-huang Taoist Temple.

Cardinal Chow concluded the visit by expressing his hope for future exchanges and collaborations. The Church is called to be a bridge of dialogue and communion. May this journey of encounter inspire us to walk together in faith and hope, building stronger bonds within the universal Church.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

President Mirziyoyev has signed the law that provides for measures to combat extremism and terrorism. Currently, there are 2,300 religious associations of 16 different faiths active in the country, and representatives of religious communities of 130 different nationalities live in the country.

Tashkent (AsiaNews) - The President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, has signed the law on the conception of state policy for the guarantee of freedom of conscience and religious profession of citizens, which provides for measures to combat extremism and terrorism.

The law was approved by the lower house of the Olij Mazilis (the parliament of Taskent) at the beginning of February, and confirmed by the Uzbek senate at the end of the month, to establish the constitutional conditions for religious activities in the secular state of Uzbekistan, and develop models for the relationship between state structures and religious denominations, in the spirit of religious tolerance, mutual solidarity and inter-faith dialogue.

According to this concept, any tendency towards religious radicalisation must be adequately opposed, including with measures for the social rehabilitation of people who are subject to these influences. The work of investigation and prevention of the spread of destructive ideologies in the information space will also be strengthened.

Currently in Uzbekistan there are 2,300 religious associations of 16 different faiths, and representatives of religious communities of 130 different nationalities live in the country.

Higher education and training is offered in 7 different languages, television programmes are broadcast in 12 languages, and there are newspapers and magazines in 14 languages.

Representatives of all faiths supported the approval of the concept, as the new law ensures harmony between the religions in the country, as a guarantee of peace and stability for the future of Uzbek society, as stated in the preamble of the law approved in parliament.

Delegates from the religious communities were invited to the Chamber to express their opinion on the text under discussion in detail on the mechanisms of politics in the religious sphere, clarifying the meaning of the secular nature of the State against any inadequate representation and radical interpretation.

The evaluations also presented information on the results that the approval of the new law is expected to achieve, starting with the constitutional right of every citizen to freely profess any religion or not to profess any religion at all, which constitutes one of the pillars of the rule of law.

This allows for the creation of an atmosphere of harmony, solidarity and social cohesion, spreading a sense of religious tolerance and harmony among the different ethnic groups in the country and ensuring the possibility of providing adequate training to personnel in the religious sphere, deepening the study of religious issues with systematic projects of scientific research and academic level analysis.

In Uzbekistan there is also a Council for Religious Affairs, in which all the leaders of the country's religious denominations are represented.

This allows for the joint development of a sovereign, democratic state, based on law and the unity of social bodies. The parliamentary debate ended with the assurance that the approved concept will in any case be subject to a process of continuous improvement, based on the proposals and opinions gathered not only from religious associations, but also from a broad consultation of the public opinion of all citizens.

The law will be presented and discussed at various events, religious meetings and informative and scientific conferences, which the State will help to organise, also with specific subsidies for the information and analysis of religious issues.

Therefore, it will be up to the religious denominations themselves to oppose any form of extremism, thanks to their ability to educate the faithful, and the state bodies will be available to support these activities, while at the same time checking that there are no hesitations or contradictions in proposing them, leaving room for spontaneous expressions and inappropriate initiatives by unauthorised groups or individuals.
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3 March 2025 13:43 (UTC+04:00)

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Despite The Economists assessment that the manat is undervalued based on the Big Mac Index, multiple economic indicators suggest its continued stability. Azerbaijans strong trade surplus, FDI inflows, remittances, tourism revenues, and current account surplus all contribute to supporting the manat. The Central Banks monetary policy remains a key factor in maintaining exchange rate stability, preventing both sharp appreciation and depreciation.

Here we are to serve you with news right now. It does not cost much, but worth your attention.

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3 March 2025 15:36 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

The State Tax Service (STS) under the Ministry of Economy continues its efforts to align Azerbaijans tax system with international transparency and information exchange standards, reinforcing the countrys reputation as a reliable exchange partner, Azernews reports.

Since joining the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes in 2013, Azerbaijan has actively participated in the implementation and assessment of international tax standards. As part of this commitment, Global Forum assessors visited Azerbaijan last week to evaluate confidentiality measures and data safeguards.

During the visit, Ilkin Valiyev, Deputy Head of the STS, met with the delegation to discuss the countrys experience in international tax compliance. The delegation also held meetings with State Customs Committee representatives and tax officials, receiving updates on ongoing reforms, information exchange practices, and security measures.

The assessment is expected to confirm Azerbaijans commitment to global tax transparency standards, further strengthening its international standing as a trusted partner in tax information exchange.
3 March 2025 17:25 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

Azerbaijan is taking steps to enhance energy efficiency and environmental protection by integrating legislative measures into its national framework. At a public hearing in the Milli Majlis on Energy Efficiency: Results and Expectations, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Vugar Karimov emphasized the importance of legislative backing for energy-saving initiatives, Azernews reports.

Citing Articles 14 and 39 of the Constitution, Karimov highlighted that everyone has the right to live in a healthy environment and that natural resources belong to the people, placing a duty on the state to ensure their protection and efficient use. In this context, he deemed the Ministry of Energys proposed addition to the Law On the Efficient Use of Energy Resources and Energy Efficiency as a necessary and timely measure.

According to the Deputy Minister, legislative support for energy efficiency serves multiple purposes:

Economic benefits  Formalizing energy efficiency programs helps reduce energy consumption, lowering costs for enterprises and households while easing the load on the electricity grid.

Energy security  While Azerbaijan has low dependence on energy imports, enhanced efficiency measures will further strengthen the country's resilience to external shocks.

Karimov also pointed to Azerbaijans commitments under the Paris Agreement, noting that Article 4, paragraph 19 encourages nations to develop Long-Term Low-Carbon Development Strategies (LTS). As of June 1, 2024, 107 countries have set net-zero emissions targets for 2045-2070, covering 82% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Azerbaijan is currently updating its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the joint efforts of the Ministries of Ecology and Natural Resources and Energy, aligning with global climate commitments.
3 March 2025 18:48 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

A meeting was held between Ulvi Mehdiyev, Chairman of the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of Azerbaijan, and Qasim Mohiuddin, Ambassador of Pakistan, Azernews reports.

According to the Public Relations Department of the State Agency, the meeting, following the visit of Pakistans Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif to the "ASAN Service" center, focused on exporting the "ASAN Service" model to Pakistan.

The ambassador expressed his strong impression of the model, noting Pakistan's readiness to take practical steps to implement it. He also proposed signing a bilateral agreement to formalize this collaboration in the near future.
3 March 2025 17:55 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Azerbaijan National Art Museum has hosted a captivating evening dedicated to the 140th anniversary of Azerbaijan's prominent composer, Uzeyir Hajibayli as part of the "Music in the Museum" project, Azernews reports.

Recognized as the founder of modern professional musical art in Azerbaijan and celebrated for creating the first opera in the East, Hajibayli's contributions to music are nothing short of monumental. His legacy as a composer and musicologist continues to resonate in the hearts of many.

The concert program, curated by the International Mugham Center, featured the Jahangir Jahangirov Choir.

Under the artistic direction of the distinguished educator Tarana Yusifova, the performers mesmerized the audience with stirring renditions of compositions from Hajibayli's iconic works, including the poignant opera "Leyli and Majnun" and the lively musical comedy "The Cloth Peddler." Alongside these celebrated pieces, the program also highlighted other timeless compositions, showcasing the depth and richness of Hajibeylis musical genius.

Adding a layer of artistic depth to the evening, a pantomime performance involving talented students from the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts brought to life the emotive themes and characters from "Leyli and Majnun." Their expressive interpretations and seamless choreography offered a poignant visual narrative that complemented the music beautifully, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the emotional world of the opera.

As the final notes lingered in the air, the audience responded with enthusiastic applause.

Founded in 1937, Azerbaijan National Art Museum offers art connoisseurs some of the best examples of decorative-applied arts of Western Europe.

Over 3,000 items in 60 rooms are on permanent display at the museum, and around 12,000 items are kept in storage. Here, you can see masterpieces of the Italian, French, German, and Polish masters of brush.

The museum has successfully organized and hosted numerous high-level international exhibitions, showcasing the works of renowned artists.

These exhibitions have not only attracted art enthusiasts but have also contributed to the cultural exchange between Azerbaijan and other countries.
3 March 2025 15:17 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Azerbaijan Culture Minister Adil Karimli has listened to citizens' appeals at the Gabala District Culture Center, Azernews reports citing the ministry.

The Minister Adil Karimli and the head of the Gabala District Executive Authority, Sabuhi Abdullayev, laid fresh flower bouquets at the monument to the National Leader Heydar Aliyev in Gabala city, honoring his cherished memory.

During the reception attended by the heads of relevant structural divisions of the Ministry, citizens from the Gabala, Shaki, Oghuz, Gakh, Zagatala, and Balakan districts presented their requests and suggestions.

The citizens' appeals mostly related to proposals in the field of culture, employment, job changes, improving material and technical supply, assessment of labor, and other issues.

The Culture Minister stated that steps would be taken to promptly investigate every issue raised by the citizens and to resolve it in accordance with the legislation.

The Minister also instructed the responsible staff members of the ministry to pay special attention to the issues raised by the families of martyrs and veterans and to address them objectively.
3 March 2025 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

A conference was held in Istanbul on the topic "The New Global Balance of Power: Factors Determining the Future of the Turkic World."

Azernews reports that the future of the Turkic world and the projects implemented by the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), as well as the projects planned by the organization, were discussed at the conference, which was jointly organized by the "Qzlbash" Youth Education Public Association, the "Yeni Cag" Media Group, and the Istanbul University Azerbaijan Culture and Unity Society.

The event, which began with the playing of the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Turkey, commemorated the martyrs of both countries.

The conference, which began with the hosting of TV journalist Turan Adalatgz, began with addresses from Ersin Tatar, President of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Ziyattin Kasanov, Chairman of the World Union of Axios Turks, Kursad Zorlu, Deputy Head of the Turkish World of Turkey's ruling Justice and Development Party (AK Party), and Tanzile Rustamkhanli, Chairman of the Azerbaijan-Turkey House (ATEV), Member of Parliament.

Speaking at the event, Agil Alasgar, a member of the Board of Directors of the Azerbaijan Press Council, head of the "Yeni Chag" Media Group, recalled the Karabakh Victory and assessed this Victory as the beginning of a new era for the Turkic world. He emphasized that President Ilham Aliyev's words, "The Organization of Turkic States is the main international organization for us, because it is our family. We have no other family. Our family is the Turkic world," played the role of a roadmap for the Turkic world.

In his speech, Deputy Chairman of the Federation of Turkish-Azerbaijani Associations, Parviz Mammadzadeh, drew attention to the attitude demonstrated towards states and people in the international arena and said that in this regard, the leaders of the Turkic world are an example for current global powers.

Head of the International Association of Journalists of Turkic-Speaking Countries, researcher and writer Gungor Yavuzaslan, President of the Istanbul Journalists Federation Adil Kocalan, heads of Turkish media organizations and others shared their views on strengthening the unity of the Turkic world, expanding strategic alliances and increasing joint activities.

The event continued with answering questions on the topic.
3 March 2025 11:33 (UTC+04:00)

PM Olzhas Bektenov also placed flowers at the graves of prominent ophthalmologist and academician Zarifa Aliyeva.

As part of his visit to Azerbaijan, Olzhas Bektenov, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, visited the Alley of Honors in Baku to pay tribute to National Leader Heydar Aliyev, the architect and founder of the modern and independent Azerbaijani state, and laid a wreath at his tomb, Azernews reports.

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3 March 2025 15:55 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

A delegation led by Dahir Shire Mohamed, the Minister of Oil and Mineral Resources of Somalia, recently visited the Baku Higher Oil School (BHOS), where they were welcomed by Ziba Mustafayeva, Vice President of SOCAR, Elmar Gasimov, Rector of BHOS, and Sabina Karimova, Advisor to the Vice President of SOCAR. The meeting also saw participation from the BHOS staff, Azernews reports.

During the meeting, Ziba Mustafayeva highlighted the achievements and progress of BHOS, emphasizing the institution's growing international ties and the increasing number of foreign students. She specifically pointed out that opportunities for Somali students have been expanding at the university. Additionally, Mustafayeva noted that SOCAR has allocated three scholarship spots for Somali students.

She further underlined the close cooperation between BHOS and the industrial sector, noting how the students' participation in internship programs and research projects has significantly contributed to their future career prospects.

The meeting also included a discussion on expanding potential areas of collaboration between BHOS and Somali representatives, exploring opportunities for further cooperation in the education and energy sectors.
3 March 2025 18:21 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

A delegation from Manash Kozybayev North Kazakhstan University, led by rector Yerbol Issakayev, visited Baku Engineering University (BEU) to discuss expanding academic collaboration, Azernews reports.

During the meeting, BEU rector Yagub Piriyev emphasized the centuries-old friendship and brotherhood between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, highlighting the development of political, economic, and cultural ties under the leadership of both countries presidents. He also noted the positive results of existing cooperation in science and education.

Piriyev provided insights into BEUs academic structure, which integrates teaching and research, and showcased the modern laboratories and innovations introduced at the university. He further elaborated on BEUs rising position in international rankings and its successful collaborations with foreign universities, particularly the dual diploma program with INHA University of South Korea.

In response, rector Yerbol Issakayev reiterated the strong historical ties between Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, expressing interest in expanding academic cooperation. He highlighted the multidisciplinary strengths of North Kazakhstan University and proposed joint projects and academic exchanges with BEU.

The discussions focused on potential research collaborations, faculty and student exchanges, and innovative teaching methods. Both sides also explored the possibility of formalizing their partnership through an official agreement.

Following the meeting, the Kazakh delegation toured BEUs state-of-the-art auditoriums, laboratories, and Technopark, gaining firsthand insight into the universitys technological and research capabilities.
3 March 2025 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Danish Migration Minister Kaare Dybvad Bek has called on Germany to cooperate in finding joint solutions to Europe's migration challenges, criticizing the current asylum system as ineffective and exploitative, Azernews reports.

In an interview with Bild, Bek described the European migration framework as inhumane and inefficient for enabling human traffickers and increasing pressure on European societies. He emphasized that illegal migration has become a tool of political leverage, while thousands continue to perish in the Mediterranean.

Denmark has significantly tightened its migration policies since 2015, implementing a "zero asylum" strategy that limits residence permits, reduces social benefits, and simplifies deportation procedures. These measures have led to only 2,300 asylum applications in Denmark in 2024, with 860 approvalscompared to Germanys 229,751 applications.

Bek expressed hope that Germany would take tougher, more effective steps in its migration policy and affirmed Denmarks readiness for closer cooperation on the issue.
3 March 2025 22:50 (UTC+04:00)

By Alimat Aliyeva

Apple has made significant concessions to the UK government by disabling the Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in iCloud for users in the United Kingdom. This move, which occurred last week, has raised serious concerns among cybersecurity and data protection experts, as it could set a concerning precedent for other countries seeking access to encrypted user information, Azernews reports.

Despite positioning itself as a strong defender of user privacy, Apple complied with the demands of the British authorities under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) of 2016. This law grants the UK government the power to compel companies to provide user data for national security and crime prevention purposes. The UK government issued a "technical capability notice" to Apple, demanding the creation of a backdoor in iCloud. This is not about hacking individual accounts but about granting the government "full access to view fully encrypted materials."

The changes made to the IPA in April 2024 have further expanded the surveillance powers of British intelligence agencies, enabling them to access large amounts of personal data stored by third parties and to interfere with companies using various encryption protocols.

British Interior Minister Dan Jarvis stated that the "notification of technical capabilities" does not require companies to disclose specific information but obliges them to "be able to respond to an individual warrant or permit." In essence, the authorities want to undermine technologies such as full end-to-end encryption, which ensures that only users have access to their encrypted data. This would prevent British intelligence agencies from being unable to conduct surveillance when needed.

According to The Verge, this requirement for Apple marks the first such case since the update to the IPA last year. The law prohibits companies from publicly confirming or denying the receipt of such notifications, effectively making the UKs efforts to weaken data encryption largely invisible. Apple can appeal the decision, but it cannot disclose the existence of this request or any actions taken in response. Information about Apple's compliance was revealed through a leak to The Washington Post.

Following the article in The Washington Post, Apple silently disabled the ADP feature for UK users, without offering a public explanation. The ADP feature extended end-to-end encryption, previously applied to passwords, health data, and payment information, to iCloud Drive data, backups, notes, photos, voice memos, and more.

Andrew Crocker, director of surveillance litigation at the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), told The Verge that "the UK government has put Apple in a difficult position by requiring a backdoor into iCloud end-to-end encryption for users around the world." In his view, Apple's decision to disable the feature for UK users may have been the only reasonable response to the situation, but it leaves UK users vulnerable to breaches and deprives them of a vital privacy protection technology.

Experts are concerned that the UKs actions could signal a dangerous precedent for other governments seeking to weaken encryption and gain greater control over user data. If more governments follow suit, this could lead to a significant reduction in the level of protection for personal information on a global scale. The implications of this move are far-reaching, as it risks eroding trust in digital platforms and potentially undermining the security of millions of users worldwide.
Appling County football has been on the cusp of something great for a very long time. The Pirates have made it to the Final Four 3 out of the last
Oregon Coast Attractions Within a Few Minutes' Drive: Depoe Bay Doesn't Know When to Stop



Published 02/27/25 at 6:45 p.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Depoe Bay, Oregon)  Depoe Bay does not know when to stop. Then again, that's a good thing in this case. It just doesn't quit when it comes to providing the immensely cool, the rugged, the mysterious and even the secretive. The central Oregon coast town itself is not quite a mile long, but the four miles on either side of make for more attractions than you can explore in a day. (Boiler Bay - Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

Within Depoe Bay itself there's exploration to last more than a day too. The spouting horn is pure madness under the right conditions, firing off jets of water that pummel the other side of the street. Shops of varied sorts create a potpourri of kitsch and cool, with keepsakes from your trip to interesting wearable art, to actual art galleries.

Candy shops are aplenty, but the yummy food options are to die for. Among one of the highlights of the entire Oregon coast is Tidal Raves, with a killer view as well. Downright delish fish dishes abound, sprinkled with herbs and spices in just the right amount to create an airy, light taste to everything that often sends your eyes rolling to the back of your head.

Within a few minutes' drive of either end of town there are gobs more of fascinating finds in the way of attractions. Boiler Bay has two major parts to it: the large headland state park and then the tiny bay where the remnant of an old shipwreck sits (the boiler which gave the bay its name).

At Depoe Bay, Tidal Raves provides this incredible view

Just north of Boiler Bay you'll quickly encounter a host of wild wonders and attractions with Fogarty Beach State Park and the clandestine cliffs of Fishing Rock State Recreation Site. Fogarty boasts some unusually large sand grains and plenty of peculiar rock formations that will cause some dropping of the jaw. Just north of all that sit the pristine sandy stretches of Lincoln Beach and Gleneden Beach, if you're longing for the softer strands.

Heading south from Depoe Bay, Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint sits right after Whale Cove and includes a large variety of intriguing sights and sites. It's much bigger than it looks, with a whole set of viewpoints tucked away in a forest at its northern end.

One of those is this lowly bench: a front row seat to ebullient wave pyrotechnics and a world of oceanic atmosphere.

Immediately south of that is Rodea Point and the entrance to Otter Loop Road. The point is one dramatic oceanic explosion after another, while the road hosts staggeringly beautiful cliffs, a dense rainforest and the delightful Ben Jones Bridge. Some of the most spectacular scenery on the entire Oregon coast sits along this somewhat secretive route.

Even more mind-boggling views await at Cape Foulweather, along with the cavernous Devil's Punchbowl and its wild, untamed neighboring beaches. These are also surfer hotspots.

An important travel tip for all these spots: if you're looking to get away from the crowds of more popular spots, these Depoe Bay-area attractions are the ticket. Even more about all these places is found at the Depoe Bay Virtual Tour, Map: Hotels in Depoe Bay - Where to eat - Depoe Bay Maps and Virtual Tours







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Oregon Coast Officials Ask for Feedback on Prohibiting Vehicles on Manzanita Beaches

Published 03/02/25 at 7:15 p.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff





(Manzanita, Oregon)  One small Oregon coast community is looking to completely ban driving on its otherwise pristine and untouched beach, as currently this is allowed to some small degree.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is inviting public feedback on a proposed rule change that aims to limit vehicle access along the ocean shore near Manzanita.

Under the current vehicle restrictions in Tillamook County (OAR 736-024-0015), the beach adjacent to Manzanita allows limited vehicle access between October 1 and April 30, from 7 AM to noon. Additionally, vehicles for boat launching are permitted year-round.

There are few areas on the Oregon coast where some amount of driving is permitted, and this is one of them.

However, a recent resolution by Manzanita's City Council has urged the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission to consider a year-round prohibition on vehicle use on this beach section. The council cited growing beach recreation, ecosystem preservation, and public safety concerns as reasons for the proposed change.





OPRD will accept public comments on the proposed rule change until 5 p.m. on April 7, 2025. Comments can be submitted to:

Online at Oregon.gov.

Via mail to OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301.

Email to OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

Attend the virtual Public Hearing:

Monday, March 24, 5:30 PM. Registration required to provide public comment: https://us06web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_ymEpgyxLT8KaOnLxjkAHvg

Watch the Public Hearing: Watch the hearing: https://www.youtube.com/ @oprddirectorsoffice5783/streams

Once the public comment period ends, Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will consider possible adoption at a meeting in the spring or fall of this year.

Areas legal to drive on the beach at other Oregon coast areas have been decreasing in numbers in recent years, with Tierra Del Mar banning it and Lincoln City shortening the window for driving on two of its beaches. The pristine state of Oregon beaches is much of the attraction of this region, and a larger percentage of Oregon residents welcome this shift away from vehicles being allowed on the sand. MORE MANZANITA BELOW

Hotels in Manzanita, Wheeler - Where to eat - Manzanita, Wheeler Maps and Virtual Tours







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Spring's Dramatic, Sensational Clouds Along Oregon Coast: A Photo Essay

Published 02/27/25 at 7:45 a.m.

By Andre' Hagestedt, Oregon Coast Beach Connection

(Manzanita, Oregon)  Spring around here gets epic and downright glorious. Yet the thing about spring on these beaches is that it's still a bit of a secret. Sure, it's colder, windier and the clouds switch back and forth from brooding to sunny like crazy. Those very clouds do some remarkable, dramatic stunts  stuff you won't see any other time of year along Oregon's coast.

In fact, there's a whole science behind it.

Hence this photo essay.

Case in point: above, Cannon Beach one outstanding April. Massive, looming and dark storm clouds can have just the right holes in them to allow the sun to paint the skies some remarkable colors  even though it's about to pour down rain at any minute.

At Lincoln City, the clouds bent and pinched out astounding columns of light during the last moments of the day.

At Manzanita, the sun mixes with brooding springtime conditions to create these astounding sights of layered mirror effects and gigantic clouds.

Seen here is Depoe Bay in early summer, in June. These unique conditions can cause the entire atmosphere to become painted some wild colors.

Just up the road, at Cape Falcon (between Manzanita and Cannon Beach), such awe-inspiring sunset shots are not unusual for this time of year because of these conditions.

Monstrous, rolly-polly clouds made quite the scene in Astoria in this photo.





In Oceanside, in this shot taken in 2002, the thick clouds and even thicker, humid air can cause memorable sights like these. Notice how the sunset has painted the waves some intriguing colors as well.

In Rockaway Beach, as seen during one particularly stunning spring day in May, the fluffy but slightly angry clouds have caused the scene to be painted a soothing pastel. This kind of look is found more often in spring as well.

Spring weather means a lot of vacillating back and forth between stormy and sunny conditions. Sometimes these weather fronts don't get along and they create some frightening lightning.





Here, above, is a shot from around Pacific City in 2003, where the lightning-filled clouds were painted by the sunset in a kind of angry shade of pink. Meanwhile, thanks to the meek appearance of the sun in between these massive squalls, a rainbow struggles for its existence among these dominant colors.

More pastels and brooding clouds have taken over the north Oregon coast hotspot of Seaside here.

In Yachats, again you find this unusual colorization of the entire atmosphere around you  which happens much more in spring than at any other time of year.

Are you guaranteed to find this all the time in spring on the Oregon coast? No. But your chances are much greater, thanks to the way weather systems operate this time of year. See here for the science about spring atmospheric conditions on the Oregon coast.

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It is not just DOGE turning up waste and fraud at USAID under Biden. Now a Swiss newsmagaine is reporting more waste / fraud it has discovered on USAID money used to send a delegation from the Congo to the globalist WEF political conference at Davos.

Invesigation by the Swiss newsmagazine Die Weltwoche (The WorldWeek) found that a delegation from the Congo spent $488,000 for five star hotel rooms for six nights during the WEF conference at Davos at a luxury hotel. While there were only six official members of the delegation, they booked dozens of rooms, probably indicating that they brought along lots of cronies.

https://weltwoche.ch/story/entwicklungshilfe-fuer-kongos-elite/

https://realclearwire.com/articles/2025/02/27/waste_of_the_day_congo_splurged_at_davos_on_usaid_dime_1094488.html

One obvious question is why USAID would be funding attendance at a globalist ideological conference for anyone? It also begs the question of how many more delegations was USAID funding to Davos? Globalism is the totalitarin movement of the 21st century, so why was USAID bankrolling attendance there?

The hotel rooms are also likely just scratiching the surface of what USAID paid. They had to fly there, quite likely first class, and there were meals and other expenses. The Davos confabs are notorious for all the high dollar prostitutes that are brought in, for example.

According to Transparency International, Congo is one of the thrity most corrupt countries in the world. USAID spent $1.3 Billion there.

Meanwhile the far left activist background of the federal district court judge who was trying to force the Trump administration to pay all of the crooked USAID contracts until he was stopped by the SCOTUS has been laid bare. Far left Judge Amir Ali is a Biden political donor, who gave thousands of dollars to Biden and thousands to other Democrats. Ali worked with BLM affiliated groups including the radical left MacArthur Justice Foundation, of which he was Diector on defunding the police and other left wing causes. Ali has criticized the Trump administration for not doing enough for Muslim North Africa, where he is from.

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/03/biden-appointed-federal-judge-who-blocked-trump-usaid/

Amir Ali is one of the radical Biden or Obama judges for whom impeachment proceedings are being prepared in Congress.
The February Third Beaufort County Commissioners Meeting

BY: HOOD RICHARDSON

I have heard several opinions about Beaufort County commissioners meetings from those who watch them on TV. One opinion, These meetings give outsiders a bad opinion of Beaufort County. Another opinion, Why cannot all of you be civil and polite, just sit there, vote and go home. Another, Meetings are like watching molasses run, how dull.

These are political events. There will always be different opinions. The Board cannot make informed decisions unless they hear from all sides. New information is presented by members of the board, the public and county employees. Meetings are required by law to be open to the public because we are spending the publics money. In a democracy the public is entitled to know. Yes, we are making sausage, so, how much sausage you want.

Providing convenient and economical service for the disposal of construction debris has been an issue for some time. Construction debris is not allowed at the roll off sites. The annual fee of $185.00 is paid by each household in Beaufort County. The fee pays for the disposal of domestic or household trash. Construction and yard debris is handled differently. Construction debris is from the demolition of a building, the remodeling of a bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, etc. Normally, contractors dispose of this material. However, some homeowners do their own remodeling, demolition and disposal.

There is only one place sponsored by Beaufort County to dispose of Construction debris. However, there are other commercial operations that dispose of construction debris. The county site is located off Flanders Filters Road. Until recently it has been open Monday through Friday. Residents who work day-jobs have difficulty using the site. Commissioners opened the facility on Saturday during the past six months and kept records to see how much the public used the facility. The answer is: Not very much. Some Saturdays there was no use at all. In light of this, a decision was made to open the facility on the first Saturday of each month. Should that be a holiday, it will be open on the second Saturday. We will run this schedule for six months. Ultimately, if there is a small amount of public use, the facility will not be opened on Saturday.

While Commissioners are sitting as a board conducting the business of the County, we have no way to know when we are being filmed. During interviews with County Attorney candidates there was confusion. We were first informed these interviews were not being filmed. I visited the control room during an interview. The control room is more than 25 feet from our meeting room. I discovered the interview was in fact being filmed. There has been confusion in knowing when video/audio filming of any meeting in the commissioners meeting room is happening. The worldwide signal of when filming is happening is the light on the camera or in the studio. I made a motion to have a light installed in our meeting room so all commissioners would know when they are being filmed, or audio recorded. That motion failed four to three. The Gang of Four (Fake Frankie Waters, Ed Booth, Jerry Langley and Randy Walker) voted against it. In doing this they created an open meetings law risky situation. If filming is subpoenaed, how does the County account for how much of filming is deleted by editing? How much editing is going on now? This is another one of those dumb decisions the Gang of Four can so gleefully make. Now, I will assume I am being filmed 100 percent of the time I am in that room.

I have repeatedly accused the Chairman of the Board, Fake Frankie Waters, who, with the cooperation of the County Manager, of having engaged in a lot of back-room shenanigans. I continue to accuse them. Proof of back-room shenanigans came with the events surrounding the half million dollars that was paid to the City of Washington because the Big Cheese (the School Superintendent) would not deal with the City. When the City realized they were being sand bagged by the Big Cheese they requested a meeting with the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners in order to resolve things. They were inviting the wrong people. Every member of the Board is equal to every other member. The Chairman and Vice Chairman have no special powers other than to conduct meetings. An invitation to either of them involving Beaufort County business is in fact an invitation to the entire Board. However, Fake Frankie Waters informed the City of Washington that the Commissioners would not get involved. I was amazed at what Fake Frankie Waters and Jerry Langleys defense of this unethical act was. I am paraphrasing. They said all invitations to them were personal and privileged and were none of the Boards Business.

People who are extending invitations and passing information to them under the assumption they are dealing with the Board of Commissioners are being deceived. I can only wonder at the special privileges that have been handed out and at the decisions that are being made for the Beaufort County Board of Commissioners by these dishonest and unethical practices. Public be aware that I will make a public issue of every violation of this kind I can find. I already know of some. I am looking for more. If you have an invitation or a request, make sure every Commissioner knows by communicating to all of them. Going thru county offices or the Chairman and Vice Chairman is not the way to go.

Beaufort County provides cooperating assistance to other counties during catastrophic events. We get a lot of assistance from other counties when we have emergency events. This has always been with the approval of the Board of Commissioners or at least notice to the Board if donations paid for by the County are of a minor consequence. Taxes are used to provide this assistance. Beaufort County provided assistance to western counties impacted by Hurricane Helene. Because neither permission nor notice was given to or from the Board of Commissioners, I raised the issue of how much assistance had been given to the western part of the state during the Hurricane Helene emergency. Staff seemed to take issue with my request by defending their actions. Again, this is tax money and Commissioners, not staff, are responsible. I suspect King Fake Frankie Waters gave his approval. So why do you need a board. We have Fake Frankie.

We need one more conservative commissioner to reduce spending, reduce taxes and return us to ethical government. Hopefully that will happen during the 2026 elections.
Regarding the recent Israel /Iran Conflict (the "12 Day War"), culminating in the United States Air Force employing seven B2 Bombers to complete a 33 hour flight, dropping 14 fifteen ton bunker busting bombs on three Iranian nuclear facilities buried deep under mountain rock, which destroyed Iran's nuclear ambitions against Israel and the United States: Should President Trump have unilaterally made the decision to make such a bold decision to conduct this operation, without first running this prospective operation before the US Congress for their approval?

14.29% No, The War Powers Act prohibitions, which requires NO presidential military action without congressional approval.85.71% Yes, the President has Article 2 Constitutional authority to take unilateral military action to protect the American People, providing he does not break congressional codes, which he did not.0% Don't care, never have.
According to a news release by the Department of Justice, Dr. Kumar is accused of enticing and inducing four victims to travel across state lines to engage in illegal sexual activity, adultering medical devices, misbranding medical devices and healthcare fraud.

The indictment alleges that from around September 2019 to June 2024, Dr. Kumar coerced four victims to travel to his medical office and subjected them to sexual activity for which he could be charged with a criminal offense.

The indictment also alleges that between 2019 and 2024, Dr. Kumar sexually abused women by performing medically unnecessary gynecologic procedures with medical devices that he kept in unsanitary conditions and reused on patients when they were intended to be disposed of or properly sanitized. He also allegedly billed Medicare and Medicaid for the procedures and as if he had used a new or properly reprocessed device for each procedure.
Here are seven things to know about the proposal:

1. In early February, Rep. Daisy Berbeco questioned Sunil Sunny Eappen, MD, CEO of University of Vermont Health Network in Burlington, about how much he earns as CEO of the states largest hospital system. Dr. Eappen reportedly accepted a nearly $600,000 bonus in 2024 and his salary is more than $1.3 million.

2. Administration and management at UVM Medical Center are paid 73% more than those at 106 other medical centers across the country, according to Vermont Healthcare 911, a nonprofit formed in response to the high cost of healthcare in the state.

3. UVMHNs chief media relations officer told the Burlington Free Press that less than 5 cents of every dollar went to pay executive and non-executive management salaries.

4. Ms. Berbeco also questioned Dr. Eappen as to whether he felt it was fair that he accepted the bonus in a year where the system also made $122 million in cuts to staff and services in response to budget restrictions imposed by the Green Mountain Care Board, Vermonts healthcare regulator. The cuts included 200 jobs, 50 hospital beds and certain procedures and specialty care units.

5. The bill would also require the ratio of hospital administration to clinical expenses to fall in line with national averages.

6. Using this formula would result in a top salary of about $416,000 annually, according to the report.
Kindreds move consolidates three long-term acute care facilities and associated services in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area to two locations: Kindred Hospital St. Petersburg (Fla.) and Kindred Hospital Tampa Central.

In a statement, the spokesperson, Jeanie Rittenberry, said the decision was made after careful evaluation of the regions needs and our operations.

This change will best support our continued delivery of high-quality, long-term acute care for the communities we serve by enabling more robust investment in our facilities, creating a stronger staffing structure, amplifying innovation and enhancing the patient and family experience, Ms. Rittenberry said.

Kindred Hospital Bay Area-Tampa is scheduled to close April 30, according to a WARN notice filed with the state.

By then, Kindred said all patients will either be discharged as part of their expected course of care or transferred to the St. Petersburg or Tampa Central locations. It intends to offer substantially all front-line employees in good standing job opportunities at other Kindred hospitals. For employees without available opportunities, we will provide financial and other transitional assistance.

Kindred Hospitals is part of ScionHealth, a healthcare company formed in December 2021 following Brentwood, Tenn.-based LifePoint Healths acquisition of Kindred Healthcare. Kindred Hospitals is also cutting more than 150 jobs as it consolidates four facilities and associated services in the Chicago area to two locations: Kindred Hospital Chicago-North and Kindred Hospital ChicagoNorthlake.
Under the policy change, the Richardson waiver would be removed effective immediately, according to a March 3 policy statement from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The waiver, established in 1971, requires HHS to follow public notice and comment on procedures for contracts, benefits, grants, property and public loans. HHS agencies usually invite public comment for a period of 60 days prior to a final decision on a proposed rule.

The extra-statutory obligations of the Richardson waiver impose costs on the Department and the public, are contrary to the efficient operation of the Department, and impede the Departments flexibility to adapt quickly to legal and policy mandates, Mr. Kennedy said.

HHS agencies can now move forward with many grants and benefits policy changes without public input.

Its hugely important, because getting rid of the Richardson Waiver means that the agency can move a lot faster to implement big new policy changes, Samuel Bagenstos, a professor of law at Ann Arbor-based University of Michigan, told CBS News. Courts have held HHS to that waiver, so its not just something they could ignore. If you think about HHS, its a $1.7 trillion department. The overwhelming majority of what it does is grants and benefits.

For example, skipping public comment could allow HHS to impose work requirements more easily on Medicaid recipients or redesign NIH funding rules, CBS News reported. However, it does not affect Medicare, which has separate public input legal rules.

Americas Essential Hospitals is concerned that the elimination of public comment, particularly for Medicaid policies, will not only reduce transparency but also lead to weaker, error-filled regulations that have not been fully vetted, a spokesperson for the organization said in a March 3 statement shared with Beckers. In addition, the rapid implementation of policy changes would give states, providers and beneficiaries insufficient time to properly prepare for implementation.

A spokesperson for the American Hospital Association told Beckers they are reviewing the policy change and do not have a comment at this time.

Beckers also reached out to the American Medical Association and will update this story should more information become available.

Three more federal updates to know:

1. Tom Corry, the assistant secretary of public affairs for HHS, resigned from his position Feb. 28, effective immediately. Mr. Corry did not list a reason for his exit. To my colleagues at HHS, I wish you the best and great success, Mr. Corry said in a March 3 LinkedIn post.

Mr. Corry served in the role for three months, according to his LinkedIn page. He also served as senior adviser and director of communications for CMS during President Donald Trumps first term.

2. Francis Collins, MD, PhD, former director of the National Institutes of Health, retired Feb. 28 after more than three decades with the department, NPR reported March 1. Dr. Collins did not list a reason for his exit. He joined NIH in 1993, and led the agency from 2009 to 2021 when he stepped down as director but continued to conduct research at his lab.

Dr. Collins retirement comes amid pushback as the Trump administration aims to implement a policy that would largely cut federal grant funding for nationwide medical research projects. The NIH posted a Feb. 7 memo that shared plans to cap reimbursement for indirect research institution costs at 15%, down from a 27% to 28% average that the department has received for years. The Trump administration anticipated more than $4 billion in federal cost cuts annually as part of the move.

3. President Donald Trumps 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico imports are set to take effect March 4, with a 10% additional tariff on Chinese imports. President Trump has cited drug trafficking concerns as a reason for the tariffs.

We cannot allow this scourge to continue to harm the USA, and therefore, until it stops, or is seriously limited, the proposed tariffs scheduled to go into effect on March 4 will, indeed, go into effect, as scheduled, he said in a Feb. 27 Truth Social post.

The tariffs levied against Canada and Mexico were initially delayed for 30 days after negotiations but will now move forward as planned. The total tariffs on China, which already have a 10% tariff on U.S. exports, will rise to 20% on March 4. On April 2, reciprocal tariffs on major trading partners are also set to begin.
New Hyde Park, N.Y.-based Northwell Health Cancer Institute reported a more than 60% decrease in wait times for surgical oncologist appointments over nine months after implementing navigation services.

Fort Myers, Fla.-based Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute reported a 40% reduction in emergency room visits for qualified, high-risk patients after implementing navigation services.
Dr. Alleyne will serve as chair of the audit committee, according to a March 3 news release from the company. He has experience in healthcare, insurance, investment and corporate governance.

OneMedNet hosts more than 1,400 healthcare sites with de-identified medical imaging data and electronic health records to aid drugmakers, medical device pioneers and AI creators.

Dr. Alleyne is managing partner at healthcare consulting firm HartHaven Partners and co-founder of NextLevel Health Partners and Zing Healthcare.

He is also a seed investor and served as founding chief medical officer of AI-powered remote physical therapy solution VirtualHealth.
I proposed to my boyfriend, then later called off the wedding: One womans account of getting cold feet at the eleventh hour

Ignoring incompatibilities in her relationship, Laura OConnor tells how she had the venue booked and bridesmaid dresses bought before the reality of what marriage entails kicked in

21,159 weddings were registered in Ireland in 2023.

Arlene Harris Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 18:34

According to Irish CSO statistics, 21,159 weddings were registered in Ireland in 2023. Thats a lot of happy couples declaring their love for each other and vowing to forsake all others for their new spouse. But while there are no official figures for those who get cold feet before the big day, it can and does happen. And while one half of the couple may be taken by total surprise at this turn of events, the other can often feel a sense of relief.
Co Armagh womans relief at disease being caught in time by doctors preparing for gastric sleeve procedure, but she still faces tough time ahead with possible need for major surgery

A woman from Co Armagh diagnosed with cancer while in Turkey for surgery to aid weight loss has described the devastating impact of the news.

Alex Herron (25) travelled in January with her partner John to undergo a gastric sleeve procedure.

However, she was left shocked after being told there was a problem.

The Poyntzpass woman explained: I had saved up for it and we went over to Turkey together just after Christmas.

Everything was going to plan initially. I got some tests and they were all good, and then when it came to the ultrasound the doctor could see there was a mass on my pancreas.

The law student tried to remain calm while her doctor told her through a translator they were going to get a second opinion.

Someone else came in and they basically decided they were going to send me to get an MRI, she added.

They still werent sure if I was going to get the procedure or not, but the next morning when everyone around me was going to get the surgery and I wasnt being called, I sort of knew it was something serious.

Her doctor then informed Alex that she had a 4cm tumour on her pancreas.

She said: We were told we could stay there and have it treated or go home. But if we stayed there it was going to take up to four months in case I needed chemo.

It was a really difficult decision and we only had 20 minutes to make it, but we decided to go home because we couldnt take four months off work.

Despite their anxiety, the couple decided to try to enjoy their break in Turkey.

It was our anniversary, so we just tried to make the most out of it, she said.

We had the flights booked and couldnt afford different flights, and we didnt want to just sit crying in the hotel room.

When she returned home medics confirmed what the Turkish doctors had found.

Ive been told by multiple doctors that if they hadnt discovered it while I was in Turkey it never would have been caught so early, she revealed.

She may need to undergo what is called a Whipple procedure, which involves the removal of the head of the pancreas, gallbladder, bowel duct and duodenum.

There is a two-five per cent chance that I wont wake up  that is very, very scary, she added.

It is a major surgery, and even if it does work, Ill have at least two weeks of a recovery period.

A biopsy is needed to confirm whether she needs the operation. She is due to have a consultation in London ahead of a biopsy. The biopsy is not available here.

Her family have set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for the consultation and surgery.

I need a biopsy first to see what treatment I should get  I understand it just comes down to funding, but it just feels so unfair that I cant get the care I need because of where I live, Alex said.

Alex Herron

News Catch Up - Sunday 2 March
Councillor who gave reference for rapist soldier is accused of supporting second sex attacker

Woman speaks out over SDLP mans backing of her abuser who died just days before his trial

Kielan Mooney. Inset: SDLP councillor Brian Tierney, the former Derry Lord Mayor

Allison Morris Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 07:13

A suspended SDLP councillor has been accused of supporting a second man accused of rape, describing the individual, who had a history of abuse, as a friend of mine.
A man allegedly broke a police officers finger amid PSNI attempts to restrain him during a domestic incident in west Belfast, a court has been told.

Declan McKernan appeared before Belfast Magistrates Court on Monday and is also accused of biting and punching two other constables during the drunken outburst of violence.

The 36-year-old, of Sliabh Dubh View in the city, was remanded in custody on six charges linked to an incident at his fathers home on February 28.

The defendant faces counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, two further assaults on police, criminal damage to a kitchen drawer, common assault and resisting arrest.

The court was told that McKernan confronted police officers while in an intoxicated state after they responded to an ongoing domestic incident at Beechmount Parade.

It was claimed he punched one of the officers and continued to struggle at the scene.

Another constable who went to his colleagues assistance suffered a suspected fractured finger as they restrained the defendant.

McKenan was initially taken to hospital for treatment to a cut lip sustained during his arrest.

On the way back to custody he spat at (a third constable) and proceeded to bite him on the wrist, a PSNI officer told the court.

It was further claimed that McKernan had behaved aggressively and tried to punch his 66-year-old father earlier that day.

Opposing bail, the officer said: It seems the defendant has a history where any time police come into contact with him it leads to an assault on police.

His father would be considered vulnerable. He has made a statement that he cannot handle or manage the defendant.

Defence solicitor Brendan Blaney told the court McKernan accepts having long-term and ongoing issues with alcohol addiction.

Bail was refused due to the risks of re-offending and interference with the civilian complainant.

District Judge Steven Keown said: An attack on an emergency worker is an attack on society as a whole and will not be tolerated.

Anybody who does so can expect to be removed from society.

McKernan was remanded in custody until March 31.
A man is in serious condition in hospital following an assault by two men in Belfast.

The incident happened around 11.20pm on Saturday evening in the Donegal Square West area of the city centre.

Police said they received a report that two men aged in their 20s were assaulted by two unknown males, with one man being punched to the left hand side of his face, before falling backwards, and hitting his head off the pavement.

As a result of the incident, he sustained a head injury, a cut just below his eye, and is currently in hospital, where his condition is described as serious, but not life threatening at this time.

The second man sustained a number of facial injuries, including a cut to his nose and a split lip, and also received medical treatment.

A PSNI spokesperson said police are appealing for information following the assault.

One of the suspects is described as having dark coloured hair, and was wearing dark trousers and shoes, and a blue jacket, they said.

"The second suspect was also said to be wearing dark coloured trousers and shoes, with a grey jacket. His hair was said to be lighter in colour.

We are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time, and saw what happened, or who has any information which might assist us, to contact 101, and quote reference number 1801 of 01/03/25.

"A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, or information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Man who brought hammer to hospital in case he was attacked by Muslims is violent ex-soldier

James Burns has been in and out of prison for serious offending including arson, rioting and a series of domestic abuse convictions

James Burns

Steven Moore Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 12:15

A man who brought a hammer to hospital in case he was attacked by Muslims is an ex-soldier who served two tours of Afghanistan.
A 28-year old man has been arrested after police working alongside Gardai seized suspected drugs with an estimated street value of 6.5 million.

The man was arrested at the scene following a search of premises in the Mallusk area of Newtownabbey this morning with police seizing suspected cannabis, cocaine and ketamine concealed within food packaging.

The man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A and class B controlled drugs.

Detective Inspector Conor Sweeney said: We believe the drugs on this seizure were intended to supply various markets across the UK. The Joint Agency Task Force was established with the aim of bringing a concerted and enhanced effort to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime.

"All partners within the Task Force are totally committed to working together to reduce the misery caused by drug smuggling and to dismantle the organised groups profiting from this type of criminality.

"It is not difficult to imagine the harm that would have been caused by this volume of drugs being dealt on street corners within our communities to vulnerable people, children and those with addictions issues.

Nor is it difficult to imagine the mayhem that the organised criminals behind this would have wreaked with the millions of pounds of profit they potentially stood to make.

"I am delighted the drugs have been removed from circulation and that this income stream has been denied to the criminal network.

However, we recognise there is still much work to be done to tackle such serious and organised criminality. We rely on the help of the community to do so and would appeal to anyone with information or concerns to contact us on 101.

A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport

Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
These are the magnificent seven structures battling to be crowned Northern Irelands top architectural project.

The redeveloped Victorian baths at Templemore in east Belfast and an arts and culture centre in Londonderry are among those shortlisted for the prize.

The Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA) Design Awards celebrate talented local architects and those involved in the building work.

Templemore Baths (Donal McCann Photography)

RSUA director Ciaran Fox said: This years shortlist is a wonderful blend of the old and the new. Its great to see innovative architecture breathing life into existing structures.

On the shortlist is One Elmwood, which houses the students union at Queens University Belfast.

Designed by Hawkins/Brown and RPP Architects, One Elmwood is described as a dazzling modern university building section which ties together key services into one utilitarian building.

Queen's Business School Student Hub sits alongside the listed red-brick Riddel Hall (Donal McCann Photography)

Another Queens contender is the Student Hub of the Queens Business School, which sits alongside the listed red-brick Riddel Hall.

A newer building on the campus, it hosts a series of researchers and postgraduate students.

The shortlist praises its warm wooden interior nestled amongst lush park greens, with the design drawn up by Todd Architects.

Templemore Baths in east Belfast reopened in 2023 after a 17m redevelopment. It now comprises a gym, fitness classes, swimming pool, sauna and an event centre, in addition to a 21st century design by the McAdam Design and Consarc Design Group.

Roddy McCorley Heritage Centre Paul Lindsay Photography

Another Belfast contender is the Roddy McCorley Heritage Centre, designed by McGurk Architects.

Its citation praised its rustic feel with a contemporary design, noting how the west Belfast facility offers a venue for functions, a restaurant, and a museum filled with memorabilia gathered by the Roddy McCorley Society and charting the republican struggle for independence dating back to the 1798 Rebellion.

Light House (Aidan McGrath)

The Light House, located in Hillsborough and drawn up by McGonigle McGrath Architects, was crafted from two terrace houses overlooking Belfast Lough into a modern minimalist structure with its own modern office space.

Silver Bark (The Artisan Photographer)

In Hillsborough, the Silver Bark House was designed by Marshall McCann Architects. Touted as a greener home for the future, it is said to blend rustic and contemporary into one dwelling.

The property won Home of the Year Ireland in 2023s Building & Architect of the Year Awards.

New Gate Arts and Culture Centre (Paul Lindsay Photography)

Derrys New Gate Arts and Culture Centre, by McGurk Architects, is also shortlisted. Hosting a range of cultural programmes, the centre is one of the newest of its kind in the city.

Each project will now be visited by the panel for a rigorous round of judging that will lead to the winners announcement in early May 2025.

However, it is not just the beauty of the construction which will be considered by judges. Sustainability goals and real-world performance will also be examined.

Mr Fox said the shortlist featured a wide range of projects.

He added: We also have a couple of new-builds which are excellent examples of successfully delivering the low-carbon agenda in a beautiful way.

We are proud to recognise and celebrate the architects, clients and wider teams who have contributed to these projects, each demonstrating elements of delight, invention or ambition deserving of further examination.

Local designer Sara ONeill joins this years team of judges.

The winners will be unveiled at a ceremony on May 8 at the Ulster Universitys revamped Belfast Campus. The building, visited by former US President Joe Biden in 2023, was crowned NI Building of the Year at the 2024 awards.
Richard Boyle and his dog were knocked down and killed

Five men and a woman have denied a range of charges arising from the death of a Belfast man who was struck by car in the west of the city.

Six suspects today appeared in the dock of Belfast Crown Court, where a litany of offences connected to an alleged hit-and-run on the Stewartstown Road on February 5, 2021, were levelled at them.

Richard Boyle was out walking his dog Junior at the time of the collision.

The 42-year-old and his beloved pet died as a result of injuries they sustained.

The first defendant to be arraigned was Martin Sean OLali (26), from Breton Court in Lisburn.

Martin Sean O'Lali at Belfast Crown Court today

After confirming his identity to a court clerk, he was charged with causing the death of Mr Boyle by driving dangerously.

When asked how he pleaded, OLali replied: Not guilty.

He was then charged with a further four offences on the same date  namely driving a Volkswagen without insurance, failing to remain at the scene of an accident, failing to stop at the scene of an accident and failing to report an accident.

He entered not guilty pleas to these four charges and denied a charge of driving dangerously on the Stewartstown Road on January 15, 2021.

The defendants 49-year old father, Martin Paul OLali, had two charges put to him.

From Greenvale in Belfast, he was charged with assisting offenders on February 5, 2021  namely, knowing his son had committed the offence of dangerous driving causing death, he did not act with intent to impede his apprehension by providing advice.

OLali Snr entered a not guilty plea to this charge and denied a second charge of withholding information concerning an arrestable offence on the same date.

Hugh ONeill, from Fallswater Street in Belfast, was charged with, and denied, four offences dating back to February 5, 2021.

The 27-year-old pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting offenders by providing a false alibi and providing a means of communication, withholding information and perverting the course of justice by burning a motor vehicle.

Lisburn woman Emma McCune was charged with assisting offenders by providing transport on February 5, 2021, and withholding information on the same date.

From Breton Park, the 27-year-old, when asked how she pleaded, said not guilty to both charges.

Meanwhile, Conor Francis Lewsley, from Glenalina Park in Belfast, was charged with one count of withholding information on February 5, 2021.

The 41-year-old also pleaded not guilty.

The sixth defendant to be arraigned was Jack Tiernan Holden of Oranmore Street in Belfast.

The 24-year-old had three charges put to him by the court clerk, all of which he denied.

Holden pleaded not guilty to assisting offenders on February 5, 2021, by providing transport, withholding information and perverting the course of justice on the same date by burning a motor vehicle.

After all six co-accused were arraigned, Judge Mark Reel did not set a date for the trial but said he would review the case in a fortnights time.

He re-listed the case for mention on Tuesday, March 18.

After no Crown objections, all six defendants were released from the dock on continuing bail.

Richard Boyle and his dog were knocked down and killed

Watch: Pedestrianisation of Hill Street to remain on hold following informal consultation
A woman has been hospitalised following a house fire on the outskirts of Belfast.

Firefighters were called to reports of a kitchen fire at a property on the Ballymiscaw Road area of Craigantlet shortly after 10am.

Two fire appliances from Knock Fire Station attended the incident alongside the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the fire service said: Firefighters were called to reports of fire in the kitchen of a detached house on the Ballymiscaw Road, Craigantlet, Belfast.

The fire was extinguished prior to the arrival of Firefighters.

The incident was dealt with by 10:54am.

The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said: We received a 999 call at 10:01, following reports of an incident in the Ballymiscaw Road area, Holywood.

NIAS despatched 1 Emergency Crew and the Charity Air Ambulance with HEMS on board were also tasked to the incident.

Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, one patient was taken to Royal Victoria Hospital by Ambulance.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) stock image.

Watch: Pedestrianisation of Hill Street to remain on hold following informal consultation
Alliance MP calls on unionists to boycott White House trip following Zelensky row: I dont know how they can even consider going now

How can DUP and UUP even consider visiting for St Patricks celebrations after rant?: MP

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky's extraordinary meeting in the White House last week. Photo: AP

Suzanne Breen Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 07:18

Unionist politicians have been urged to reconsider their plans to attend Donald Trumps St Patricks celebrations in the White House after his clash with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.
Danielle McLaughlin who was discovered dead in Canacona, a popular tourist area in the south of Goa (Family/PA)

The Attorney General has received a request to hold an inquest into the murder of Irish backpacker Danielle McLaughlin.

Local man Vikat Bhagat, 31, was found guilty at the District and Sessions Court in India last month.

Ms McLaughlin, from Buncrana in Co Donegal, was found dead in a secluded spot in Canacona, an area of Goa popular with holidaymakers, in March 2017.

The 28-year-old had been celebrating Holi, a Hindu spring festival, at a nearby village.

Ms McLaughlins body was found the next day by a farmer in a field in a remote location.

Danielle McLaughlin (Family/PA)

A post-mortem examination showed the former Liverpool John Moores University student suffered cerebral damage and constriction of the neck, causing her death.

Weeks after the verdict in India, Ms McLaughlins family solicitor Des Doherty applied to Attorney General Rossa Fanning to direct an inquest into her murder and rape, under Section 24(1) of the Coroners Act 1962.

The family told the Irish Times podcast that they have a lot of unanswered questions about Ms McLaughlins death.

The family do not have a death certificate for Ms McLaughlin and do not know which of the horrific injuries she suffered killed her.

Ms McLaughlins family believe that the Attorney General can direct an inquest to be carried out based in the interest of justice and in the public interest.

The office of the Attorney General has been contacted for comment.
First Minister Michelle ONeill speaks in the Stormont Assembly chamber on Monday during questions for the Executive Office (NI Assembly/PA)

Northern Irelands First Minister Michelle ONeill has said she is comfortable with the deputy First Minister attending the White House later this month.

Ms ONeill previously announced she was not planning to travel to Washington DC for St Patricks Day.

She said that she, along with her Sinn Fein party colleagues, will take a principled stance against the threat of mass expulsion of the Palestinian people from Gaza.

Last week, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly confirmed she will travel to Washington DC.

First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly meeting with US President Joe Biden in 2023 (Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye/PA)

Last year Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly were lauded in the US capital as they travelled together to attend St Patricks Day events only weeks after the powersharing institutions at Stormont were restored.

Speaking during questions for the Executive Office at the Stormont Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said that she and Ms Little-Pengelly will both travel to North Carolina with a Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce trade delegation next week, before the deputy First Minister goes on to Washington.

Ms ONeill also confirmed an invitation had been received for the White House.

She said she was comfortable with Ms Little-Pengelly attending when she is not.

People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll questions First Minister Michelle ONeill during questions for the Executive Office at the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday (NI Assembly/PA)

Responding to a question from People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, Ms ONeill said she had taken the decision as First Minister not to attend events at the White House this year.

Thats my decision, a decision I dont take lightly, but a decision Ive taken as a principled stance because I believe its the right thing to do at this moment in time.

I think there are times whenever theres a responsibility on all of us to call out injustice, and this was that moment.

So, Im very comfortable with my decision, equally comfortable with the fact that the deputy First Minister has a different view and will travel to be part of the White House reception and other events this year.

Thats entirely her call and Im comfortable enough with that decision.

Micheal Martin is also travelling to the US (Brian Lawless/PA)

Mr Carroll also pressed Ms ONeill on Taoiseach Micheal Martins attendance at the White House.

Ms ONeill responded by saying it is a different situation for the Taoiseach, who will have the opportunity to engage directly with US President Donald Trump.

Thats an opportunity that he has to take because only he will have that opportunity to have that one-on-one time, and I hope that he does take the opportunity to drive home the message, the depth of feeling thats felt right across Ireland in terms of how people feel about whats happening in Palestine, she said.

The recent commentary by the US administration, in particular in terms of the taking of Palestinian lands, the removal of the Palestinian people off their lands, the fact that they have moved away from a two-state solution, which is a solution that we all want to see achieved, is something that he needs to be very firm on in terms of any engagement with the US president.
Lord Mandelson said Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky should give unequivocal backing to US President Donald Trumps peace initiative (Carl Court/PA)

The UK ambassador to the US Lord Mandelson has been slapped down by a defence minister for suggesting that Ukraine should commit to a ceasefire before Russia.

Lord Mandelsons comments do not represent Government policy, armed forces minister Luke Pollard said.

The ambassador used an interview with American outlet ABC to say that Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky should give unequivocal backing to US President Donald Trumps peace initiative.

Lord Mandelson, left, with Sir Keir Starmer at the ambassadors residence in Washington (Carl Court/PA)

Mr Trumps overtures to Russias Vladimir Putin, with the possibility of Ukraine being sidelined in talks led by the White House and the Kremlin, has alarmed European leaders.

Lord Mandelson said a very radical reset was needed following the Oval Office row between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

The reset has to consist of the United States and Ukraine getting back on the same page, President Zelensky giving his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President Trump is taking to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine, he said.

And the Europeans too, they need to back the calls for a ceasefire, and  by the way  I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow.

But asked whether Lord Mandelsons remarks reflected Government policy, Mr Pollard told Sky News: No. Its certainly right that Ukrainians want peace. I think of all the people on our continent that want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

But were still in discussions, diplomatic engagement with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of that deal.

But its certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war.

Asked whether Lord Mandelson misspoke, he said: Thats not Government policy.
Sir Keir Starmer is expected to return to the Commons on Monday for the first time since his blitz of high-stakes diplomatic action across the Atlantic and in London.

MPs will likely hear a statement from the Prime Minister following his meeting with Donald Trump in Washington DC, as well as the emergency defence summit of European leaders he convened at the weekend.

Sir Keir told European powers they must realise it is time to act, and warned they stand at a crossroads in history, following the Sunday gathering at Lancaster House, a mansion near Buckingham Palace.

He committed 1.6 billion towards helping Ukraine purchase 5,000 missiles for its defence and invited European leaders to join a coalition of the willing led by Britain and France, which is aimed at enforcing any future peace deal.

America is attempting to negotiate an end to hostilities directly with Russia but Sir Keir has insisted European countries must play a key role in enforcing a peace deal and deter Vladimir Putin from breaking it.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the UK and France are proposing a one-month ceasefire plan which they will present to the US as part of an attempt to repair relations with the Trump administration, according to French newspaper Le Figaro.

But the UK Government appeared to distance itself from suggestions that such a plan had been agreed.

A Number 10 spokeswoman said: As the Prime Minister said in his press conference, we need and want to progress with momentum and are pleased (the) summit has enabled discussions to move forward. Those discussions will continue at pace.

Armed forces minister Luke Pollard later warned of Ukrainian fears that a short pause in the fighting could allow Russian forces to regroup and attack again.

Asked about the report, he said: No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, and so I dont recognise the precise part you mentioned there.

But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine.

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau and Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky also joined the meeting.

The King met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk (Joe Giddens/PA)

The Ukrainian president received a warm welcome to 10 Downing Street on Saturday that contrasted with his fractious encounter in the Oval Office a day before.

That led to him cutting short a trip to the US in which he was supposed to sign a minerals deal with Mr Trump, exchanging rights to natural resources for further American military support.

The bust-up between the two presidents in the Oval Office that was broadcast around the world saw them  and American vice president JD Vance  talking over one another in raised voices.

Mr Trump accused Mr Zelensky of gambling with world war three and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putins invasion.

The spat exposed a raw divide between the US and its European Nato allies, who rallied to Mr Zelenskys side.

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In a post on his social media platform Truth Social early on Monday, Mr Trump urged his followers to spend less time worrying about Putin and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country  So that we dont end up like Europe.

Sir Keir told the BBC he had sought to act as a bridge and end the feuding, after he held multiple phone calls with Mr Trump, Mr Zelensky and Mr Macron over the weekend.

In a post of his own on X, formerly Twitter, Mr Zelensky expressed gratitude to Europe and America for the support his country has received since the outbreak of the conflict, but stressed there could be no peace deal without security guarantees.

He wrote: As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to co-operate.

Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkiye.

Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support weve received from the United States. There has not been a day when we havent felt gratitude.

Its gratitude for the preservation of our independence  our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us  and for their own security.

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What we need is peace, not endless war. And thats why we say security guarantees are the key to this.

The Prime Minister only returned from America early on Friday morning.

In his trip to Washington DC, Sir Keir appeared to win Mr Trumps backing for the Chagos Islands deal, and an indication he could stave off the threat of US tariffs on British goods, after inviting the Republican for an unprecedented second state visit to the UK.

In other developments over the weekend:

 Ukraines President Zelensky told reporters he is prepared to stand down in exchange for Nato membership, and suggested he is ready to sign the minerals deal with the US.

 Canadian prime minister Mr Trudeau will meet the King, and raise the US presidents threat to annex Canada  a Commonwealth nation  with the monarch.

 President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has said she will present a plan to rearm Europe in the coming days.

 Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off on a 2.26 billion loan scheme to help Ukraine buy weapons and fund its reconstruction after the war, which will be repaid with the profits of frozen Russian assets.

 The Liberal Democrats have called on the Government to bring forward emergency legislation on Monday in Parliament to begin the seizure of Russian assets frozen in European banks.
Sir Keir Starmer has suggested MPs would get a vote on potential deployment of British troops in Ukraine, saying Parliament will be able to express its view, but the situation is currently nowhere near that stage.

The Prime Minister responded to concerns of MPs on the UK coming to a direct military conflict with a nuclear armed Russia and personnel being sent into harms way without a US security agreement.

Sir Keir convened an emergency summit of European leaders over the weekend as allies scrambled to find a way forward following the Oval Office row between US President Donald Trump, vice president JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Key to the European discussions has been an insistence on the inclusion of an American backstop as part of any peacekeeping deal in order to deter future Russian aggression.

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Frances President Emmanuel Macron held a meeting on Sunday (Justin Tallis/PA)

The US has not yet committed to providing any such security guarantee, which the UK sees as essential to ensuring a durable and lasting ceasefire.

In his statement to the Commons on Monday, Sir Keir said the coalition of the willing European leaders agreed to intensify planning now.

He said: As this House would expect, Britain will play a leading role. With, if necessary and together with others, boots on the ground and planes in the air.

It is right that Europe do the heavy lifting to support peace on our continent, but to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing.

People take part in a rally in support of Ukraine outside Downing Street (Lucy North/PA)

I want to assure the House I take none of this lightly. I visited British troops in Estonia and no aspect of my role weighs more heavily than the deployment of British troops in the service of the defence and security in Europe, and yet I do feel very strongly that the future of Ukraine is vital for our national security.

Labour MP for Leeds East, Richard Burgon, welcomed the growing push for a peace deal in Ukraine but raised concern on the UK coming into direct conflict with Russia.

He said: I am alarmed by the issue of deploying British troops on the ground in Ukraine and British military planes in the skies over Ukraine, because theres no getting away from the fact that would risk our country coming to a direct military conflict with a nuclear-armed Russia, and the consequences of millions of people in our country and across Europe of such war and nuclear conflict really dont bear thinking about.

So, given the enormity of such a decision, will the Prime Minister commit to ensuring a vote in the House of Commons before any such deployment in keeping with the important principles of our parliamentary democracy?

Sir Keir replied: The risk to our country is if we do not fight for the peace.

My position on the sustained deployment of our troops is that this House would of course want to discuss that and vote on that, but were nowhere near that stage at the moment.

Former Labour leader, now Independent MP, Jeremy Corbyn asked under what circumstances Sir Keir would deploy troops in Ukraine participating in fighting activity and if he would come to the House before any such decision is taken.

The Prime Minister replied: Of course its right that this House should have details and discussion of any security guarantees and the right to express its view, and Ill ensure that that happens.

Former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn asked under what circumstances Sir Keir would deploy troops in Ukraine participating in fighting activity (Ben Birchall/Jacob King/PA)

Conservative former minister Andrew Murrison said service families would be looking on at deployment debates very anxiously indeed.

He asked: Would the Prime Minister agree with me that it would be utter folly if the United Kingdom or France or Norway or Canada sent their sons and daughters into harms way without all necessary security guarantees from the United States?

Sir Keir said he agreed and a US security backstop is vital if its to act as a guarantee, adding thats uppermost in my mind.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch welcomed the Prime Ministers actions over the weekend and reaffirmed her partys support for Ukraine.

She said: The Prime Minister has suggested that British troops could be deployed in Ukraine. There are obviously a range of possible options for what such a deployment could look like, and we are keen to work with the Government, but we will need details of any such plan.

This will be a difficult but significant step. I know many in Parliament and across our country will be interested in what this entails, and I ask him to work with us so there can be effective scrutiny.

In his response, Sir Keir said he would put details before the House if we get to that stage and said the Opposition Leader will get whatever briefings she needs to be fully informed on proposals.
Trump-Zelensky clash has increased sense of urgencyFrance says one-month truce would test if Putin is seriousTrump says 'America will not put up with it for much longer'Germany's Merz says Oval Office clash was not spontaneousEuropean Union to unveil proposal to boost defence spending

US President Donald Trump arguing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House last Friday. REUTERS/Brian Snyder.

US President Donald Trump has said Americas patience is running out with regard to a peace deal on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, as European leaders debated several proposals for a truce in fighting.

France floated a plan for a one-month pause leading to peace talks as European countries, led by Britain and France, are rallying around Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and trying to hatch a peace plan that includes Kyiv after last week's Oval Office rupture between Zelensky and Trump.

"There are clearly a number of options on the table," Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman said.

France, Britain and potentially other European countries have offered to send troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire - something Moscow has already rejected - but say they would want support from the US, or a "backstop".

Trump has reversed US policy by opening talks with Moscow over the head of Ukraine and without consulting its other Western allies. On Friday, he publicly harangued Zelensky to fall in line or see the US cut off crucial military aid.

On Monday, the US president responded angrily to an AP report quoting Zelensky as saying the end of the war is "very, very far away".

"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.

"It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US."

Zelensky says a ceasefire must carry explicit security guarantees from the West to ensure that Russia, which invaded Ukraine three years ago and holds about 20pc of its land, does not attack again. Trump has refused to give any such guarantees.

Starmer hosted European leaders in London on Sunday and said they had agreed to draw up a peace plan to present to the US.

In an interview on his way to the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron raised the possibility of a one-month truce, though there was no immediate public endorsement from other allies.

US President Donald Trump arguing with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House last Friday. REUTERS/Brian Snyder.

Trump warns Zelensky youre gambling with World War Three

"Such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said.

"And that's when real peace negotiations could start."

European ground troops would only be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase, Macron said in the interview, published in Le Figaro.

Zelensky, asked if he was aware of that proposal, told reporters in London: "I'm aware of everything."

European leaders are processing what some describe as Washington's biggest policy reversal since World War Two, after Zelensky left the White House abruptly on Friday following a dressing-down in front of cameras by Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Zelensky had been in Washington to sign a deal to give the US access to Ukrainian minerals, but left without signing it.

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz told Fox News that Zelensky must apologise.

"What we need to hear from President Zelensky is that he has regret for what happened, he's ready to sign this minerals deal and that he's ready to engage in peace talks," he said.

"I don't think that's too much to ask. We'll see what happens in the next 48 hours, but we are certainly looking to move forward in a positive way."

Friedrich Merz, the conservative due to become Germany's chancellor after winning the largest share of the vote in an election a week ago, suggested Friday's Oval Office argument, in which Zelenskiy was pressed to commit publicly to a diplomatic solution, had been a pre-planned trap.

"It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but obviously a manufactured escalation," Merz said.

"We must now show that we are in a position to act independently in Europe."

Privately, and sometimes publicly, European officials are fuming at what they see as a betrayal of Ukraine, which had enjoyed staunch support from Washington since Russia's invasion.

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou said there had been "two victims" from the Oval Office clash: Ukraine's security and Europe's eight-decade alliance with the United States.

In the French parliament, he thanked Zelensky for standing firm. He spoke of "a staggering scene, marked by brutality, a desire for humiliation, whose aim was to force Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to surrender by threat".

But Europeans are also still working to keep the US onside. Peter Mandelson, Britain's ambassador to the United States, said Ukrainian-US relations needed to be reset, as Trumps initiative to end the war was "the only show in town".

Trump spoke by phone with Putin last month and then announced negotiations to end the war would begin quickly, blindsiding both Zelenskiy and his other Western allies, including the European Union and Britain.

European leaders now agree they must spend more on defence to show Trump the continent can protect itself. The EU will hold an emergency summit on Thursday.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she would inform member states on Tuesday about plans to strengthen the European defence industry and the EU's military capabilities:

"We need a massive surge in defence, without any question. We want lasting peace, but lasting peace can only be built on strength, and strength begins with strengthening ourselves."

Russia has not concealed its delight, praising Trump for changing US policy and denouncing Zelensky for challenging him.

"We see that the collective West has partially begun to lose its collectivity, and a fragmentation of the collective West has begun," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"There remains a group of countries that rather constitutes the party of war, which declares its readiness to further support Ukraine in terms of supporting the war and ensuring the continuation of hostilities."
In this photo provided by the Australian Defence Force, Australian Navy sailors from HMAS Choules use an inflatable boat to rescue Lithuanian rower Aurimas Mockus (CPOIS Helen Frank/Australian Defence Force/AP)

An Australian warship has rescued a Lithuanian solo rower who encountered a tropical cyclone while attempting to cross the Pacific Ocean from California.

Aurimas Mockus was taken aboard Royal Australian Navy landing ship HMAS Choules on Monday, where he was undergoing a medical assessment, vice admiral Justin Jones said in a statement.

The 44-year-old adventurer had been stranded for three days in the Coral Sea around 460 miles east of the Queensland coastal city of Mackay. He had rowed there in an enclosed boat from San Diego, headed for the Queensland capital Brisbane.

He began the 7,500-mile journey in October and was days away from Brisbane when he ran into the storm, which is forecast to cross the Australian coast within days.

Australian Navy sailors from HMAS Choules used an inflatable boat to rescue Lithuanian rower Aurimas Mockus, second right (CPOIS Helen Frank/Australian Defence Force/AP)

Brisbane is 500 miles south of Mackay by air.

Mr Mockus activated an emergency beacon on Friday after rowing into stormy seas and 50 mph winds generated by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said in a statement.

The rescue authority sent a plane that made radio contact with Mr Mockus, reporting he was fatigued, on Saturday.

The warship is taking Mr Mockus south beyond Brisbane to Sydney, the navy said.

The cyclone continued to track south and on Monday was 280 miles east of Brisbane, authorities said. It is forecast to turn west and cross the Australian coast on Thursday or Friday.

Mr Mockus was attempting to become one of the few rowers who have crossed the Pacific alone and without stopping.

Lithuanian rower Aurimas Mockus boat is photographed in heavy seas in the Coral Sea off the northeast coast of Australia (Australian Defence Force/AP)

Briton Peter Bird arguably became the first in 1983. He rowed from San Francisco and was towed the final 30 miles to the Australian mainland. He is considered to have rowed close enough to Australia to have made the crossing.

Compatriot John Beeden rowed from San Francisco to the Queensland city of Cairns in 2015 and is considered by some to have made the first successful crossing.

Australian Michelle Lee became the first woman to make the crossing in 2023, rowing from Ensenada in Mexico to Queenslands Port Douglas.

In 2022 another Australian, Tom Robinson, attempted to become the youngest to row across the Pacific, albeit with a break in the Cook Islands. He set out from Peru and spent 265 days at sea before he was rescued off Vanuatu in 2023.

A wave capsized the 24-year-olds boat, leaving him clinging naked to the hull for 14 hours before he was rescued by a cruise ship that made a 124-mile detour to reach him.
Robert E Crimo III watches the jury selection process during the first day of his trial at the Lake County Courthouse in Illinois, US (AP photo)

The man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens more at a 2022 Independence Day parade in a Chicago suburb has pleaded guilty to murder and attempted murder, just moments before opening arguments in his trial.

Appearing in a Lake County circuit courtroom, Robert E Crimo III, 23, withdrew his earlier not guilty plea in the Highland Park shooting.

The trial started on February 24 with jury selection.

Robert E Crimo III arrives for his trial in Judge Victoria Rossettis courtroom in Waukegan, Illinois (Nam Y Huh/AP)

Prosecutors initially charged him with 21 counts of first-degree murder  three counts for each person killed  as well as 48 counts of attempted murder.

Prosecutors dropped the less serious 48 counts of aggravated battery before jury selection last week.

On Monday, Judge Victoria Rossetti read the charges to Crimo and asked questions to be sure he understood before any open plea was read to the court. He was sitting next to his lawyers wearing a dark suit.

Sentencing will come on April 23, but Crimo is certain to spend the rest of his life behind bars. Each count of first-degree murder carries a natural life prison sentence.

Crimo did not further address the court or ask questions before leaving the courtroom.

The trial that began February 24 was expected to last about a month with testimony from survivors and police.

Robert E Crimo III is escorted from the courtroom at a break-in juror selection at the Lake County Courthouse (Brian Hill/Daily Herald via AP)

Prosecutors have turned in thousands of pages of evidence, as well as hours of a videotaped interrogation during which police say Crimo confessed to the shooting.

Dozens of people were wounded in the shooting in the suburb about 30 miles (50 kilometres) north of Chicago.

The wounded ranged in age from their 80s down to an eight-year-old boy who was left partially paralysed.

Witnesses described confusion as the shots began, followed by panic as families fled the downtown parade route, leaving behind lawn chairs and strollers to find safety inside nearby businesses or homes.

The criminal case proceeded slowly for months, partly because of Crimos unpredictable behaviour.

In June 2024, when he was expected to accept a plea deal and give victims and relatives a chance to address him publicly, Crimo showed up to court in a wheelchair and rejected the deal, surprising even his lawyers.

Robert Crimo Jnr, father of accused parade mass shooter Robert E Crimo III listens during juror selection at the Lake County Courthouse (Brian Hill/Daily Herald via AP)

He also fired his public defenders and said he would represent himself. Then he abruptly reversed himself.

The trial came almost two years after his fathers case focusing on how Crimo obtained a gun licence.

In 2019, at age 19, Crimo was only allowed to apply for a gun licence with the sponsorship of a parent or guardian. His father agreed, even though a relative had reported to police that his son had a collection of knives and had threatened to kill everyone.

Crimos father, Robert Crimo Jnr, pleaded guilty in 2023 to seven misdemeanour counts of reckless conduct.

City leaders cancelled the annual parade in 2023 but reinstated it the following year with a remembrance ceremony for those killed.

Killed in the shooting were: Katherine Goldstein, 64; Jacquelyn Sundheim, 63; Stephen Straus, 88; Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, 78; Eduardo Uvaldo, 69; and married couple Kevin McCarthy, 37, and Irina McCarthy, 35.
Russian President Vladimir Putin listens to the head of Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, during their meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia (Mikhail Metzel, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

A spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has come as a windfall for the Kremlin, raising Moscows hopes for a halt in US assistance to Kyiv even as Russian troops seek to extend their gains in Ukraine.

The Oval Office meeting on Friday that exploded in acrimony when Mr Trump and US vice president JD Vance accused Mr Zelensky of refusing to negotiate peace and berated him for being ungrateful for US support so far has cast doubts over the future of US-Ukrainian relations.

The Kremlin was quick to cast the White House encounter as a proof of Mr Zelenskys reluctance to negotiate an end to the three-year conflict.

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with the head of Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, during their meeting at the Kremlin (Mikhail Metzel via AP)

What happened in the White House on Friday certainly showed how difficult it will be to get on the path to a Ukrainian settlement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

The Kyiv regime and Zelensky do not want peace, they want the war to continue.

He claimed that the White House blow-up has proven President Vladimir Putins statements about Kyivs refusal to hold peace talks.

Mr Putin, who sent troops into Ukraine on February 24, 2022, has declared his openness for peace but demanded that Ukraine abandon its bid to join Nato and withdraw its troops from the four regions that Russia illegally annexed in 2022 but never fully captured.

President Putin was right when he said that despite the openness of the Russian side to the negotiation process, these good intentions run into the unwillingness of the Kyiv regime to maintain such dynamics, Mr Peskov said in a conference call with reporters.

We saw this to the full extent in Washington. In this situation, of course, Washingtons efforts and Moscows readiness alone will clearly not be enough, a crucial element is missing.

 Denigrating Zelensky

Mr Peskov said that Mr Putin watched the unprecedented White House encounter and took what happened into account.

As a minimum, Zelensky has shown an utter lack of diplomatic skills, Mr Peskov told reporters.

President Donald Trump welcomes Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House in Washington DC (Ben Curtis/AP)

Commenting on the Ukrainian leaders refusal to recognise any loss of territory, Mr Peskov said it reflected his reluctance to recognise the battlefield situation.

You have to be blind not to see it, he declared.

Other Russian officials were even less diplomatic.

Dmitry Medvedev, a deputy head of Russias Security Council chaired by Mr Putin, relished what he called a fierce scolding and a slap in the face for Mr Zelensky and voiced hope for a quick end to US military aid for Ukraine.

Pro-Kremlin media and commentators derided Mr Zelenskys attire and his negotiating style and described the meeting as a disaster for Ukraine.

Trump wiped his feet on Zelensky and Ukraine like a doormat, commented hardline ideologue Alexander Dugin.

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky pauses during an interview with Fox News (Jose Luis Magana/AP)

Zelensky was thrown out of the White House like a garbage alley cat, gloated pro-Kremlin military analyst Igor Korotchenko.

Russias flagship Sunday news show dedicated more than a third of its airtime  almost an hour  to the Trump-Zelensky clash, with anchor Dmitry Kiselyov mocking Zelensky for sporting his usual military-style garb at the White House and saying the Ukrainian leader looked like a loser and made a scene in the Oval Office.

 Assailing Europe

Mr Kiselyov also blasted EU leaders for seeking to prolong the fighting and suggested that a rift between the US and its European allies could potentially erode the influence of Nato and the EU on the global arena.

Right now everything is being decided within a new big triangle  Russia-China-the United States. It is in this triangle where a new world order will be developed, Mr Kiselyov mused, dismissing Sundays summit of European allies in London as almost clandestine and pointless.

Commenting on the London summit, Mr Peskov said it reflected the European reluctance to negotiate peace.

There is a group of countries that represent the party of war, which are declaring their readiness to continue to support Ukraine in a sense of supporting the war and ensuring the continuation of the hostilities, Mr Peskov said.

European leaders with President Volodymyr Zelensky during a summit on Ukraine in London (Christophe Ena via AP)

There were statements made about the need to urgently provide an increased level of funding for Ukraine  clearly not for a peace plan but for the continuation of military operations.

He added that European leaders will face a daunting task of trying to mend a rift between Washington DC and Kyiv.

Its clear that someone will have to make a considerable effort in terms of dialogue with Washington in order to somehow neutralise the probably unpleasant aftertaste that probably remained in the White House after talking with Zelensky, he said.

Mr Medvedev, a former liberal-leaning Russian president who has become one of the most hawkish Kremlin officials, denounced the London summit as the anti-Trump Russophobic coven, declaring that they want to continue the war till the last Ukrainian!

A participant holds a sign reading Europe, can you protect yourself? during an anti-Putin demonstration in Berlin (Hannes P Albert/dpa via AP)

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov assailed Kyivs European allies for defying Mr Trumps push for peace and described Europe as a birthplace of conflict.

During the past 500 years, all tragedies of the world originated in Europe or were linked to European politics, he said in televised comments.

Mr Lavrov, who has previously warned that Moscow would not accept peacekeepers from any Nato members in case of a potential peace deal, has dismissed French and British proposals to deploy such a force as impudent.

This plan for the deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine is the continuation of efforts to incite the Kyiv regime to wage a war against us, he said.

 Russia to press on with military action

Mr Peskov emphasised that after Mr Trumps call with Mr Putin last month and US-Russian talk in Saudi Arabia, Moscow will continue negotiations with Washington DC on normalising ties, focusing on efforts to ensure the normal operations of the embassies after years of expulsions of diplomats.

At the same time, the Russian side will continue the special military operation to achieve the goals that have been set from the start, Mr Peskov said, using the Kremlins term for the war in Ukraine.

A Ukrainian serviceman prepares to launch a long-range drone in an undisclosed location in Ukraine (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

Many commentators in Moscow said that Europe would not be able to provide Ukraine with enough weapons if the US cuts military aid.

Europe says it will never abandon Ukraine, but it lacks resources to replace America, Fyodor Lukyanov, the head of Moscow-based Council for Foreign and Defence Policies, observed in an analysis.

An attempt at peaceful settlement has been thwarted, Mr Lukyanov said. It paves the way for the next stage of using force, probably in a tougher way.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with the King on Monday where he will discuss US president Donald Trumps threats to make Canada the 51st state.

Charles has come under criticism in Canada for being silent about Mr Trumps threats to annex Canada.

Mr Trudeau said in London on Sunday that he will discuss matters of importance to Canadians with Charles, and said nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation.

Donald Trump meeting Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in the Oval Office at the White House (Carl Court/PA)

Charles is the head of state in Canada, which is a member of the British Commonwealth of former colonies.

Overall, the anti-royal movement in Canada is small, but the silence of the monarch on Mr Trumps threats have spurred talk in recent days.

Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney said for Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented on Mr Trumps threats, he can only act on the advice of Canadas prime minister.

The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty, Mr Kenney posted on X.

The king, who met on Sunday with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, has invited Mr Trump to come to Scotland for a state visit.

Though Canadians are somewhat indifferent to the monarchy, many had great affection for the late Queen, whose silhouette marks their coins.

She was the head of state for 45% of Canadas existence and visited the country 22 times as monarch.

Visits by Charles over the years have attracted sparse crowds.

Canadians will need to decide what purpose King Charles III serves as King of Canada if he cant even speak up for our sovereignty, Artur Wilczynski, a former Canadian public servant, posted on X.

Abolishing the monarchy would mean changing the constitution. That is an inherently risky undertaking, given how delicately it is engineered to unite a nation of 41 million people that embraces English-speakers, French-speakers, indigenous tribes and a constant flow of new immigrants.
Martin Dillons new book is entitled The Sorrow and the Loss: The Tragic Shadow Cast by the Troubles on the Lives of WomenHe disputes the ending of the Say Nothing book and television show depicting the murder of Jean McConvilleCalls out IRA over the murder of Caroline Moreland and says Martin McGuinness must have known

Martin Dillon: Women and what they went through is an aspect of the Troubles that was ignored and theres no evidence for the Say Nothing ending

The Shankill Butchers, The Dirty War, and Trigger Men are just some of the well-known books chronicling the Troubles written by Martin Dillon.

The Belfast-born journalist has investigated loyalism, republicanism and the actions of the British state.

Those books were dominated by men, leading Dillon to write a new book on the role of women during the conflict - the activists, the mothers, the victims, the wives.

People like Caroline Moreland, shot as informer, just weeks before the IRA ceasefire.

Mairead Farrell killed by the SAS in Gibraltar, sent on a dangerous mission despite being well-known to the security services.

And RUC officer Tracey Doak, killed in a bomb attack in south Armagh, and Shankill woman Tracey Coulter and her life in the shadow of the UDA.

Even people like Jean McBride, a New Lodge mother forced to become a campaigner when her son was gunned down by soldiers, for no clear reason at all.

This new volume is called The Sorrow and the Loss: The Tragic Shadow Cast by the Troubles on the Lives of Women.

Martin Dillon joins Ciaran Dunbar in the studio to talk about his career, his latest work, and his views on the depiction of Jean McConvilles murder in the Disney drama Say Nothing.
Millions poured in for Live Aid as wives pawned wedding rings and even Geldof was proud to be Irish
Music superstar (77) opens up on NI relatives and making Gerry Adams shake hands with political rival at gig: 'The audience went mad
Business

Eyewear company Warby Parker will open its new location at the Old Mill District on Saturday. The company
Six months after state policymakers passed a historic law to fast-track housing production, a panel convened by Gov. Maura Healey is asking them to prepare for Round 2.

The Unlocking Housing Production Commission has proposed over 50 recommendations to lower housing costs and clear the path for developing the 222,000 units needed statewide by 2035. Some of the recommendations can be achieved through regulatory and administrative action, but the majority require a legislative response.

Local housing advocates said that a number of the recommendations will be particularly impactful in the Berkshires, including instituting a state sales tax credit for construction materials, eliminating barriers to modular housing development and allowing two-family homes by right in all residential districts.

The recommendations cover issues housing developers and advocates have been raising for years, said Eileen Peltier, CEO of Hearthway. Some of the recommendations mirror those in 1Berkshires A Housing Vision for the Berkshires report from five years ago.

Despite the general consensus among housing advocates that these issues hinder development, the path ahead for the recommendations likely won't be an easy one. Local control is a Massachusetts hallmark, and towns could resist transferring some of that to the state, Peltier said.

That will be the real question  how much do municipalities feel like they are losing control with this? Because essentially what this report is saying is we cant do it that way anymore. We cant have every municipality add its own twist to everything, she said.

Healey convened the commission a year ago to recommend additional changes to state law and regulations unaddressed by the Affordable Homes Act.

Sixteen people representing state offices, home builder associations, building trade unions, commercial real estate and housing nonprofits sat on the commission.

The commissions report, released Feb. 21, outlines four main areas where the state must make headway to ease the housing crisis: economic incentives and workforce development, land use and zoning, regulations, code and permitting and statewide planning and local coordination.

Within those four categories, local housing advocates single out six recommendations that would be particularly impactful for solving the Berkshires housing crisis.

Brad Gordon, executive director of Upside413, said his overarching takeaway from reading the report is that the state is attempting to move away from its restrictive zoning practices, which have long stymied development.

Themes throughout this report are really about upzoning; that is, making it easier to develop more housing and develop more multifamily zoning by right, Gordon said.

Many towns and cities in the Berkshires have prioritized making their zoning bylaws more inclusive in recent years, Peltier said. The commissions report includes recommendations that would further those efforts, including removing barriers to modular and multifamily housing development.

Modular housing can provide major cost and time savings when compared to stick-built homes. It is also highly adaptable, making it a housing solution not only in urban centers but also in rural areas where housing development has historically lagged due to high costs and logistical challenges, the report says.

Gordon said increasing modular housing development in the Berkshires could provide an economic engine for the community, especially if the Berkshires was to build its own manufacturing plant.

The commission also urged the state to require that towns and cities adopt zoning changes that reflect the housing goals laid out in their master plan. To further incentivize municipalities to prioritize housing development, the commission said the state should align all municipal funding with housing production goals, effectively rewarding communities for their ability to produce and preserve housing.

Another relevant recommendation involves growing the states trained construction workforce. In June 2024, the Associated Builders and Contractors reported that the states construction unemployment rate was 2.5 percent, the lowest rate for that month in at least 17 years.

To fill the labor gap and increase the speed of production, the commission recommended launching a comprehensive outreach and public relations campaign to raise awareness of career opportunities in the construction trades, and provide incentives for people entering the trades like internship programs and job placement.

Other noteworthy recommendations include offering a sales tax credit for construction to offset the high cost of materials, eliminating excess building and energy code regulations and making it easier for housing developers to access water and wastewater infrastructure.

Infrastructure is often a very big challenge for development in rural areas and certainly in the Berkshires," Peltier said. "Theres several recommendations related to incentives for municipalities to bring infrastructure. Hugely helpful if they can pull that off.

To achieve these changes at the local level, the commission advised the state to expand its technical and planning assistance offerings, including consultants, online training and pro-housing model bylaws.

Because many of the recommendations rely on legislative action, the timeline moving forward is uncertain.

Were probably talking about at least a couple years to get it through the legislative process, and I think wed be foolish or naive to think that there isnt going to be a lot of pushback from a number of communities, Gordon said.

Ed Augustus, the secretary of the Executive Office of Housing and Living Communities, said in a news release that the state needs "to take a close look at every idea when it comes to bringing down the cost of housing for Massachusetts residents."

Gordon and Peltier said the success of the commissions recommendations will rest on municipalities willingness to cooperate and partner with the state.

My hope is that its a call to action for these local communities and that they get that they need to start rolling up their sleeves and do the work, Gordon said.
A National Grid worker works at the Adams substation in 2014. The Department of Public Utilities on Friday approved a three-year plan for Mass Save that funds the program at $4.5 billion rather than the $5 billion. According to Gov. Maura Healey, this will amount to "real savings for people."
A few times in Scripture, we find the Lord showing up in unexpected places. Abraham entertained three strangers who were traveling by, which is not surprising since hospitality was a cherished value in the Ancient Near East. But what is interesting about this encounter is that right before he sees the three men, Scripture says that The Lord appeared to Abraham near the great trees of Mamre while he was sitting at the entrance to his tent in the heat of the day (Genesis 18:1).

When one of the men talks, he speaks the words of God, promising to Abraham and Sarah that they would have a son by the next year (Genesis 18:10). And while the other two strangers depart, one remains and it is clear that Abraham is talking to the Lord, pleading with Him to show mercy to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:22-33). The next chapter reveals that the other two men are angels who help Lot and his family flee (Genesis 19:1, 16).

Not every biblical scholar agrees that this appearance to Abraham was a theophany. However, there are indications in the passage that one of the strangers is the Lord.

That is not the only time someone assigned a meeting with a stranger as a visitation from the Lord. When Jacob was alone at night, worried about meeting his brother the next day, a man wrestled with him (Genesis 32:24). They grappled with each other throughout the night. Yet even with his hip socket being wrenched, Jacob did not relent until the man blessed him. This stranger gave Jacob a new name: Israel, which conveys the meaning of struggling or wrestling with God (Genesis 32:28).

We are never told the mans name, but Jacob was convinced he had seen the Lord, which is why he named the place Peniel. As he said, It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared (Genesis 32:30).

These encounters show us Gods faithfulness since He made a promise to Abraham at His appearing and showed great mercy in sparing Lot and his family from the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. In His encounter with Jacob, He humbled the deceiving brother and gave him a new identity. In both events, God appeared mysteriously as a stranger.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben Sweet
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Shah Brothers announces expansion to revolutionise single use manufacturing capabilities

March 04, 2025 | Tuesday | News

Advanced ISO class 7 Inteviz Single-Use facility: Transforming Indias Biopharma industry

Shah Brothers, a trusted partner in single use solutions, is constructing a new manufacturing facility in Vadodara. The three state-of-the art buildings, covering 87,220 sq. ft, enhances manufacturing capacity for single use technology products in India.

The advanced ISO Class VII Inteviz facility will transform single-use assembly manufacturing with superior processes ensuring flexibility, compliance, and scalable production.

In addition, indigenous manufacturing of fluid handling solutions will ensure increased production capacity and tailored solutions to meet growing industry demands.

This milestone strengthens our ability to serve our Indian and global partners with enhanced momentum, customized solutions, and unmatched reliability. said company director Nishant Shah.

As the company embarks on this exciting journey, it reaffirms its commitment to excellence. As the industry needs growth, Shah Brothers continues to supply the biopharma and biotech industries with a range of innovative products, from upstream to fill-finish, including our flagship products under Inteviz customised single-use assemblies & Floviz brand, as well as connectors, tubing, pumps, mixers, and other single-use solutions.

For more details, click here
J-15 carrier-based fighter jet soars into sky

China Military Online) 09:38, March 03, 2025

A J-15 carrier-based fighter jet attached to a regiment under the Chinese PLA Naval Aviation University soars into the sky during an eight-hour day-and-night flight training exercise in northeast China's Liaoning Province on February 20, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xu Yinglong)

A J-15 carrier-based fighter jet attached to a regiment under the Chinese PLA Naval Aviation University soars into the sky during an eight-hour day-and-night flight training exercise in northeast China's Liaoning Province on February 20, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xu Yinglong)

A J-15 carrier-based fighter jet attached to a regiment under the Chinese PLA Naval Aviation University soars into the sky during an eight-hour day-and-night flight training exercise in northeast China's Liaoning Province on February 20, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xu Yinglong)

A J-15 carrier-based fighter jet attached to a regiment under the Chinese PLA Naval Aviation University taxis out of the parking apron during an eight-hour day-and-night flight training exercise in northeast China's Liaoning Province on February 20, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xu Yinglong)

A maintenance man assigned to a regiment under the Chinese PLA Naval Aviation University conducts pre-flight inspection with a J-15 fighter pilot during an eight-hour day-and-night flight training exercise in northeast China's Liaoning Province on February 20, 2025. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Xu Yinglong)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Zoe Saldana broke down in tears as she accepted the Best Actress in a Supporting role Academy Award on Sunday (02.03.25).

Zoe Saldana at the Oscars

The 46-year-old actress admitted she was "floored" to have won the Oscar for 'Emilia Perez' ahead of Monica Barbaro ('A Complete Unknown'), Ariana Grande ('Wicked'), Felicity Jones ('The Brutalist') and Isabella Rossellini ('Conclave') and gave an emotional speech in which she paid tribute to her family and spoke proudly of being the "first American of Dominican origin" to win at the ceremony.

Speaking on stage at Los Angeles' Dolby Theater, she said: "Mommy! Mommy! My mom is here, my whole family is here. I am floored by this honour.

"Thank you to the Academy for recognising the quiet heroism and the power of a woman like Rita and talking about powerful women, my fellow nominees, the love and community you have offered me is a true gift and I will pay it forward. Thank you so much.

"Jacques Audiard you are forever a belvoed character in my life, thank you for taking the interest, thank you for being so curious about these women to tell this story.

"To my cast and crew of 'Emilia Perez', I am sharing this award with you.

"Netflix, Ted, Lisa, Bella, Why Not productions, YSL, thank you for your support. To my kick-ass team at CAA, my amazing managers and lawyers and the powerful ladies of the lead company, your guidance and thank you for always, always answering my emails late at night."

Zoe - who has twins Cy and Bowie, 10, and eight-year-old Zen with husband Marco Perego  then grew more emotional as she spoke about her family.

She added: "To my mom and dad, my sisters, everything brave, outrageous and good that I have ever done in my life is because of you, thank you so much.

"And to my husband, you have beautiful hair, you're just... The biggest honour of my life is being my partner You hung the moon in our beautiful sons, Cy Bowie and Zen. They fill our skies every night with stars.

"My grandmother came to this country in 1961, I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hard-working hands and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award and I know I won't be the last. I hope the fact I'm getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish, my grandmother if she were here, she'd be so delighted. Thank you so much."


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U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a new trade investigation on Saturday that could lead to further tariffs on imported lumber. This move would add to the existing duties already imposed on Canadian softwood lumber and the upcoming 25% tariffs on all Canadian and Mexican goods, which are scheduled to take effect next week.

In his third tariff investigation within a week, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum instructing Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to initiate a national security investigation into U.S. lumber imports under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The order mandates that the Commerce Department conduct and finalize its investigation within a period of 270 days. This trade law, which grants the president the authority to impose tariffs on imports deemed a threat to national security, was previously used by Trump to justify tariffs on global steel and aluminum imports.

The scope of the investigation extends beyond raw lumber to include derivative products, such as furniture items like kitchen cabinets, which in some instances are manufactured using U.S. lumber that had been previously exported.

Trump also mandated actions within 90 days to expand the domestic lumber supply by simplifying the permitting process for timber harvesting on public lands and improving the recovery of fallen trees from forests and waterways.

The order directs agencies to issue new or updated guidance to enhance timber production, including accelerating the approval process for forestry projects under the Endangered Species Act.

The president has also aimed to address specific industries that, in his view, are being negatively impacted by foreign imports, which he argues are weakening domestic manufacturing and production.

The United States has been involved in a prolonged trade conflict with Canada over the import of softwood lumber. In 2023, the U.S. imported around 34 million cubic feet of softwood lumber, with Canada being the dominant supplier, providing more than 28 million cubic feet. In contrast, the next largest sources, Germany and Sweden, contributed a significantly smaller amount, shipping a combined total of less than 3.5 million cubic feet.

In 2016, the U.S. lumber industry filed the most recent legal challenge, urging the Commerce Department to take action. A statement from the British Columbia government claimed that Canadian lumber was being unfairly subsidized and dumped into the U.S. market at below-market prices.

Originally published on IBTimes
Piers Morgan has returned to Good Morning Britain for the first time in nearly four years following his departure from ITV over his controversial comments about Megan Markle.

The TV presenter stormed off the ITV morning programme on March 8 2021 and subsequently left after saying he did not believe claims made by former Suits actress Meghan during her and Harrys explosive Oprah Winfrey interview, which became the most complained-about show in Ofcom history.

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On Monday morning, he rejoined his former co-presenter Susanna Reid and Ed Balls on the show to discuss his own experiences with US president Donald Trump.

Like Ive never been away.. pic.twitter.com/z8poesNLUb  Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) March 3, 2025

Morgan interrupted Reid before she launched into the interview, saying: Hang on, are we just going to ignore the fact I havent been here for 1,453 days?

He then tried to hug Reid, which she initially rejected, saying: No, I dont want a hug.

After Morgan encouraged her, the pair shared an air hug and kiss, which prompted laughter from Morgan.

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Former MP Balls then offered to hug Morgan, saying: We dont mind hugging.

Morgan also remarked to Reid that she had moved on so fast to a new co-presenter, to which she replied: Ive got a couple of new husbands now.

Balls assured Morgan that she did not hug him either, to which Reid responded: No, I dont do hugs, as you know.

Launching into her interview, she continued: Ive locked horns with you, Piers Morgan, on many occasions, but you have locked horns with President Trump.

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Morgan went on to reveal that he had had a phone call with Mr Trump on Friday ahead of the US presidents clash with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday.

He said Mr Trump had been in an upbeat mood on the call where they had discussed numerous topics including Ukraine.

'Focus on what he does, not what he says'



Long-time friend of Donald Trump, Piers Morgan, weighs in on the press conference between the US President and Volodymyr Zelensky last week. @piersmorgan says 'Trump wants peace not war.' pic.twitter.com/R2YiCnYyMw  Good Morning Britain (@GMB) March 3, 2025

The presenter said: Ive had screaming matches with him, literally, and then an hour later, were laughing and joking, doing a fun interview 

So I always think with him, focus on what he does, not what he says, or the general drama and chaos.

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And secondly, understand that this is almost uniquely in modern times, a Republican president in America who wants peace, not war.

At the end of their interview, Reid and Morgan began to butt heads again as he advised Balls to stop wearing ties, as he said that in the YouTube area he was now in, ties were the enemy.

Balls replied: Piers, as you know, I always do what the editor wants.

To which Morgan quipped: Or what Susanna tells you to do, bad for her brand if you take the tie off.

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She said it had nothing to do with her and pointed out the exit to him, saying: Theres a door there. Im not sure if you recognise it Piers?

Entertainment SNL recreates Trump and Zelenskiy clash in skit fe... Read More

Morgan stormed off the set of Good Morning Britain in 2021 after saying he did not believe claims made by Meghan during her interview with Winfrey.

The episode received 54,595 complaints and it emerged that Meghan had made a formal complaint to ITV about Morgan.

The media watchdog later ruled that Good Morning Britain was not in breach of the broadcasting code over Morgans comments but said they were potentially harmful and offensive.
Gardai hacked into the phone of a man accused of stabbing his wife to death and discovered video and audio footage of the murder, the Central Criminal Court has heard.

Stephen Mooney (52) on Monday pleaded guilty to murdering his wife, Anna Mooney (46), at their home on Kilbarrack Road, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5 on June 15th 2023.

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Ms Mooney, a Ukrainian mother of two, died having suffered stab wounds in the kitchen of the home they shared.

Mooney had been due to stand trial for murder but on February 7th last, prosecution senior counsel Desmond Dockery told the court of a "significant development" in the case.

Gardai, he said, seized the accused's phone at the crime scene but until then were unable to access its contents as they did not have the pin code or password.

However, the Cellebrite software that gardai uses to analyse mobile phones has recently undergone an update that allows phones to be unlocked without a password.

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When gardai unlocked Mooney's phone, Mr Dockery said: "It became immediately apparent that it contained highly relevant video and audio of the minutes leading up to the fatal incident and the fatal incident itself."

Michael Bowman SC, for Mooney, said at the time that the development in the Cellebrite software means that "what had been impossible, is now a reality". In light of the new evidence, Mr Bowman said he needed to engage with his client "immediately".

Ireland Leisure businesses including petting zoos thrown i... Read More

Following those engagements, Mooney was arraigned before the court today on what had originally been the date his trial was due to begin.

Wearing a blue suit, blue shirt and tie, Mooney replied "guilty" to the single charge that he murdered Anna Mooney at the family home in Kilbarrack on June 15th 2023.

He faces the mandatory life sentence for murder but Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned sentencing to accommodate members of the victim's family who may wish to make statements to the court.

Mooney remains in custody and the matter will be mentioned on June 18th when a sentencing date will be set.
A man who engaged in a prolonged campaign of coercive control and violence against his partner, forcing her to keep a camera doorbell on her so he could monitor her at all times, has been jailed for five years.

Until he went into custody on Monday, the man had weekly access to his two children with the woman, who queried in her victim impact statement why there was no link between the family and criminal courts with regard to decisions on child custody.

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The 41-year-old Dublin man, who cannot be named to protect the anonymity of the children involved, pleaded guilty to one count of coercive control and three counts of assault causing harm to the woman on locations in Dublin and Co Clare on dates between 2017 and 2020.

The court heard the man took the woman's social welfare payments, did not allow her to have a phone, isolated her from her family, installed a house alarm but didn't give her the code to restrict her movements and locked doors in the house.

He also bought a Ring doorbell and forced her to have it with her at all times so he could watch her and ensure she was not entertaining anyone, Detective Sergeant Nicola Duffy told Dominic McGinn SC, prosecuting.

When he rang the doorbell, she had to answer it instantly and show him both her hands and what she was doing, the court heard.

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In her victim impact statement, which she read out in court, the woman said that towards the end of the relationship, she was being beaten by the man on a near-daily basis. She described the fear it caused her children, who eventually stopped asking her why she was bruised.

She recalled being told by her son's junior infant teacher that the little boy had expressed fear his mammy was going to be killed by the man.

The court heard the woman was left bloodied, bruised and injured a number of times at the hands of the man, including while on holidays in Co Clare, Scotland and Spain.

On a trip to Madrid, he was taken into custody by Spanish police who released him when she agreed not to press charges. On another occasion, he fractured her finger with his phone as she tried to protect her head from him.

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The court heard that the couple first met online in 2016, shortly after the woman had broken up with a previous partner - the father of her two children.

She and her children moved in with the man in 2017, and he started behaving violently towards her about nine months later.

The court heard the woman had two more children with the man, but also suffered a miscarriage in the course of their relationship.

Escape plan

The man accused her of taking something to kill the baby and also talked about getting a DNA test from the deceased baby to ensure it was definitely his. This did not ultimately take place.

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The woman described attempting to escape the man on one occasion, taking the children in a taxi to the post office to get her welfare payment and leave, only to be met by the man outside and brought back home.

The court heard she eventually successfully escaped him after he assaulted her while she was pregnant with her fourth child, getting a taxi to her parents' house where she arrived with nothing, including the means to pay for the taxi.

She reported the man to gardai and underwent a series of garda interviews over several months so investigators could get a full picture of the allegations.

When the man's house was searched, the woman's blood spatters were found on walls, floors, curtains and picture frames, the court heard.

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The woman said she had to battle the man in the Family Court and he was granted access to his two children.

She said she felt he used this access to continue his control over her and that there should be a link between the family and criminal courts in such cases. He should not be allowed access to the children, she said.

Mark Lynam SC, defending, said that after the miscarriage, the couple were abusing drugs and alcohol as a way of numbing themselves and that the man's drug use spiralled. He is now drug-free, the court heard.

He worked for a period of time as a scaffolder, but is now working part-time and caring for his father. A number of references, including from a former partner and two subsequent partners were handed into court.

Sentencing the man, Judge Martin Nolan said the case involved serious and prolonged misbehaviour.

Ireland Gardai added to case taken by suspended Dublin Air... Read More

There is a pattern of physical violence, a pattern of verbal violence, a pattern of totally controlling her, a pattern of assaulting her and a pattern of humiliating and ridiculing her, he said. She will suffer long term effects.

The judge said he had no doubt there were dozens of assaults inflicted on the woman. Taking into account the maximum sentence for each offence is five years, he set a headline sentence of eight years. He reduced this to five years, starting from Monday's date.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, you can contact Womens Aid (24-hour freephone helpline at 1800-341 900, email helpline@womensaid.ie) or Mens Aid Ireland (confidential helpline at 01-554 3811, email hello@mensaid.ie) for support and information.

Safe Ireland also offers a number of local services and helplines at safeireland.ie/get-help/where-to-find-help/. In the case of an emergency, always dial 999/112.
A "mean" scammer caught carrying out a bogus door-to-door collection in Dublin claiming to raise money to help homeless women has been jailed for five months.

John Stokes, 27, of Shancastle Lawns, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 pleaded guilty to an offence under the Street and House To House Collections Act.

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During the proceedings at Dublin District Court, it was revealed that Stokes had previously worked for the Associated Charities Trust (ACT).

It runs Thomond House in Limerick and provides emergency and transitional accommodation for homeless women.

Despite leaving the charity over five years ago, the father of two kept copies of their documents on file and was caught last year using one to carry out a collection in Harold's Cross, Dublin.

However, Garda Michael Dowling caught him as an elderly woman was about to hand over 50.

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Hugh Silke, ACT project manager, gave a victim impact statement, telling the court that after the outbreak of the COVID pandemic, the charity ceased door-to-door or street collections but raised funds through its website instead.

Mr Silke said Stokes was "elusive" and could print off copies of documents which looked like they were from the charity.

Stokes "preyed" on the public, but none of their efforts to stop him were successful.

Mr Silke said over the last few years, the charity has had to update its website frequently to warn potential donors about him carrying out fake collections in their areas.

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Stokes had 21 prior convictions, including one for deception.

Judge Gerard Jones noted that one woman had been about to give Stokes money when he was intercepted and he praised Garda Donnelly who caught him.

Ireland Woman given five year sentence for killing partner... Read More

Defence solicitor Holly Laher mentioned that her client had worked for the charity before 2020, and since then, he had been "in and out of work".

He has also spent two years in the UK since 2020 and has been on social welfare while searching for employment.

Judge Jones described Stokes's actions as "a very mean crime" where the public expected their money to go to the homeless charity.

"If an elderly lady gives 50, he might as well take it out of her hands," he said as he sentenced Stokes, who did not address the court.
A murder accused told gardai that he pushed and hit his partner during an argument after he claimed he found her having a party with her brother and another tall guy hours before she was found stabbed to death in her home, a trial has heard.

During his first interview with gardai, Daniel Blanaru also told officers that the person who made a mistake on the night was his partner because, she should have the respect for me as a man".

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Mr Blanaru (37), from Rathmore, Athboy, Co Meath, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his partner, Larisa Serban (26) at their home on or about August 12th, 2022.

The jury at the Central Criminal Court on Monday viewed portions of a video recording of Mr Blanarus first interview in Ashbourne Garda Station with Detective Sergeant Mark Looby and Detective Garda Padraig ORourke on August 12th, 2022.

In the interview, Mr Blanaru, speaking through a Romanian interpreter, told the detectives that he had been at a party in Navan the previous night, getting home at around midnight.

He said when he got to his house, Larisa was there with her brother David and a tall guy.

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Argument

Mr Blanaru said he asked what was going on and Ms Serban said they were having a party. He said there was cocaine on the table and he asked his wife: Why are you doing this in our house and why are you allowing those things to happen?

Mr Blanaru said Larisas brother came to him and the two men had an argument.

He said he told his partners brother: You should have a bit of respect.

Mr Blanaru then told gardai: The person who made a mistake is my wife. She should have the respect for me as a man.

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He said he told David to get out of the house and then Larisa told Mr Blanaru to leave.

And I ask her what do you mean for me to get out of my own house? I said let them get out of my house, said Mr Blanaru. We kind of try to push each other and tall guy separated us.

He said he then argued with his wife asking her: Who is this guy? If he is here at the party where is his partner? before telling Larisa that, this means that you [are] with this guy.

Mr Blanaru said they then told him they would call 999 if he wouldnt get out of the house.

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He continued: I know that I pushed her. I know that I hit her. And then the tall guy tried to get between us, and I asked the tall guy why are you getting involved you have no right to get between us?.

He said Ms Serbans brother then got in between the couple and told Mr Blanaru to get out.

She told me if I wont get out of the house she is going to call the police. And I said you see what you are doing you throw me out of the house, he said.

Facebook call

The accused then said he went to Drogheda and from there he called Larisas Facebook but she didnt answer.

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And then I called my brother to go and see whats happening there, he said.

Mr Blanaru told gardai he then went to Drogheda Garda Station and from that point I didnt know anything else. He said his solicitor and gardai informed him that Larisa was dead.

Prosecution counsel Eilis Brennan SC then read a portion of the memo of interview in which Mr Blanaru was asked about the party in Navan he said he had attended.

Ireland Mean charity scammer jailed for five months for... Read More

The accused told gardai it had been a gypsy party and took place at a property in the centre of town.

Asked about the tall guy he said was in the house with Larisa and her brother when he got home, Mr Blanaru said the man was tall with white coloured skin, black hair and a moustache. He said the man was Romanian but not gypsy.

During questioning, Mr Blanaru said he first met Larisa in Carrickmacross at the end of 2016 having first interacted on Facebook when he had a phone for sale. Thats how we started talking and meeting, he said. Asked if the couple were married, Mr Blanaru said not legally going on to tell the detectives that he and Larisa had received a blessing in the Pentecostal Church.

The trial continues on Tuesday before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon and an enlarged jury of eleven men and four women.
Northern Irelands First Minister Michelle ONeill has said she is comfortable with the deputy First Minister attending the White House later this month.

Ms ONeill previously announced she was not planning to travel to Washington DC for St Patricks Day.

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She said that she, along with her Sinn Fein party colleagues, will take a principled stance against the threat of mass expulsion of the Palestinian people from Gaza.

Last week, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly confirmed she will travel to Washington DC.

First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly meeting with US President Joe Biden in 2023 (Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye/PA)

Last year Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly were lauded in the US capital as they travelled together to attend St Patricks Day events only weeks after the powersharing institutions at Stormont were restored.

Speaking during questions for the Executive Office at the Stormont Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said that she and Ms Little-Pengelly will both travel to North Carolina with a Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce trade delegation next week, before the deputy First Minister goes on to Washington.

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Ms ONeill also confirmed an invitation had been received for the White House.

She said she was comfortable with Ms Little-Pengelly attending when she is not.

People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll questions First Minister Michelle ONeill during questions for the Executive Office at the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday (NI Assembly/PA)

Responding to a question from People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, Ms ONeill said she had taken the decision as First Minister not to attend events at the White House this year.

Thats my decision, a decision I dont take lightly, but a decision Ive taken as a principled stance because I believe its the right thing to do at this moment in time.

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I think there are times whenever theres a responsibility on all of us to call out injustice, and this was that moment.

So, Im very comfortable with my decision, equally comfortable with the fact that the deputy First Minister has a different view and will travel to be part of the White House reception and other events this year.

Thats entirely her call and Im comfortable enough with that decision.

Micheal Martin is also travelling to the US (Brian Lawless/PA)

Mr Carroll also pressed Ms ONeill on Taoiseach Micheal Martins attendance at the White House.

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Ms ONeill responded by saying it is a different situation for the Taoiseach, who will have the opportunity to engage directly with US president Donald Trump.

Thats an opportunity that he has to take because only he will have that opportunity to have that one-on-one time, and I hope that he does take the opportunity to drive home the message, the depth of feeling thats felt right across Ireland in terms of how people feel about whats happening in Palestine, she said.

The recent commentary by the US administration, in particular in terms of the taking of Palestinian lands, the removal of the Palestinian people off their lands, the fact that they have moved away from a two-state solution, which is a solution that we all want to see achieved, is something that he needs to be very firm on in terms of any engagement with the US president.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expanded visa restrictions on Cuban officials and others allegedly involved in Cuba's labor export programs, particularly its overseas medical missions. The new policy extends to current and former Cuban government officials, as well as foreign government officials who support these programs. Immediate family members of sanctioned individuals will also be affected.

The U.S. Department of State announced the expansion on Tuesday through a statement, saying that the Cuban government profits from forced labor while depriving its citizens of essential medical care:

"Cuba's labor export programs, which include the medical missions, enrich the Cuban regime and, in the case of Cuba's overseas medical missions, deprive ordinary Cubans of the medical care they desperately need in their home country"

The statement goes on to say that the U.S. is committed to countering forced labor practices around the globe and that "to do so, we must promote accountability not just for Cuban officials responsible for these policies, but also those complicit in the exploitation and forced labor of Cuban workers."

Rubio also shared his thoughts on the measure through a post on X:

The United States is expanding its Cuba-related visa restriction policy. @StateDept has taken steps to restrict visa issuance to Cuban and complicit third-country government officials and individuals responsible for Cubas exploitative labor export program. We will promote  Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) February 25, 2025

The visa restrictions are being implemented under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, a provision allowing the U.S. to bar entry to individuals engaged in activities deemed harmful to American interests.

The Cuban government has strongly condemned the move. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez called the decision "based on lies" and argued that it would negatively impact healthcare services for millions worldwide. "Once again, Marco Rubio is placing his personal interests above those of the United States," Rodriguez stated on X:

Once again, Marco Rubio puts his personal agenda before the #US interests.



The suspension of visas associated to #Cuba's international medical cooperation is the seventh unjustified aggressive measure against our population within a month.  Bruno Rodriguez P (@BrunoRguezP) February 25, 2025

The Cuban government has long sent doctors abroad, presenting the initiative as a humanitarian effort, while critics, including human rights organizations, have characterized it as forced labor. The program generates significant revenue for the Cuban government, with official figures indicating that Cuba earned $6.3 billion from these missions in 2018 and $3.9 billion in 2020, as France 24 reports.

Human rights organizations have long raised concerns about the conditions faced by Cuban doctors abroad, citing strict regulations that restrict their freedoms and movement. Under former President George W. Bush, the U.S. introduced a program encouraging Cuban doctors to defect while on overseas assignments.

The latest policy shift follows broader efforts by the Trump administration to tighten restrictions on Cuba, including re-designating the country as a state sponsor of terrorism after President Joe Biden had lifted the designation in exchange for the release of political prisoners.

Originally published on Latin Times
An order for the Thales missile factory to supply 5,000 air defence missiles to Ukraine is hugely significant for the Belfast workforce, DUP leader Gavin Robinson has said.

Mr Robinson also described the heated Oval Office confrontation between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as appalling and destructive.

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However, he said is entirely appropriate that his party colleague, Emma Little-Pengelly, should attend events in Washington DC to mark St Patricks Day and that the decision of some parties in the region to boycott the event made no sense.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made the missiles announcement during a press conference on Sunday (Julian Simmonds/Daily Telegraph/PA)

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday that the lightweight-multirole missiles (LMM) will be made at the Thales weapons plant in Belfast, creating 200 jobs.

This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now and strengthen Ukraine in securing the peace when it comes, he said.

The missiles, which are capable of flying at 1.5 times the speed of sound and striking targets more than 3.7 miles (6km) away, can be used to attack enemy vehicles, boats and drones.

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East Belfast MP Mr Robinson told the BBC Good Morning Ulster programme: It is a hugely significant story.

Significant because of the turbulence in international relations in the last week.

Significant because of the contribution that Thales have been making to Ukraine since the start  in fact before the start of Russias brutal invasion  and significant because of the recognition that is given through this order to the skill and the ingenuity of the team at Thales.

He added: This order of 5,000 units in an overall package of 1.6 billion (1.93 billion) is hugely significant for the Belfast workforce. It is a recognition of their skill and what they do in our city.

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There is no point talking about international principles, no point talking about the values we respect and that we wish to protect globally if you are not prepared to stand up for them.

Mr Robinson said Ukraine would have already fallen to Russia had it not been for missiles sent from the Belfast factory in January 2022.

He added: We are giving the tools to make sure a sovereign country has the ability to stand against an international aggressor in Russia, a country that decided to walk over the border, destroy cities and villages and towns and kill civilians.

Those are the values we are protecting and defending and I am pleased that Belfast plays its role in that.

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The Thales weapons factory in Belfast will make the 5,000 lightweight-multirole missiles for Ukraine (Liam McBurney/PA)

Mr Robinson said the order is helping to correct a historical underspend in defence in Northern Ireland.

It is not that we have lack of skills or lack of product, but now you are starting to see the orders filter through and that is really encouraging for our advanced manufacturing industry, for high-tech, for skills development, for apprenticeships and for our economy, he said.

Asked about the scenes in the White House when Mr Zelensky visited on Friday, Mr Robinson said they were appalling.

I thought it was appalling that it occurred, it was appalling that it came on back of comments made through social media about Zelensky being a dictator when he is not, that he or Ukraine were responsible for the aggression of Russia, when they werent.

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My reflection is that meeting shouldnt have happened because they werent in a position to reach agreement.

Sometimes it is darkest before the dawn and I think it is very important that in the days that followed an international arm has been put around Volodymyr Zelensky.

He added: Nobody could have watched those scenes and thought they were anything other than destructive.

Mr Robinson said he is not travelling to the US for St Patricks Day events, but his party colleague and deputy First Minister Ms Little-Pengelly will be making the trip.

First Minister Michelle ONeill of Sinn Fein will not be travelling as part of her partys protest at Mr Trumps remarks on the Gaza Strip, and Alliance Party leader Naomi Long said nobody from her party will be at the White House, although it will be sending a representative to Washington.

First Minister Michelle ONeill has said she will not be travelling to the US for St Patricks Day events (Liam McBurney/PA)

Mr Robinson said: Emma Little-Pengelly is a joint leader of our Northern Ireland Executive and it is entirely appropriate as it is for the Taoiseach of the Republic of Ireland, as it is for the Prime Minister of our country.

International relations and international diplomacy cannot be superficially about likes on TikTok or Twitter.

You have to take the opportunities when they arise. Sometimes that means that you have difficult conversations.

More importantly, there is an opportunity for Northern Ireland to present itself positively amongst an ally in the United States, a country that has been supportive of Northern Ireland for many years, invests in Northern Ireland, brings jobs and opportunities to families in Northern Ireland.

The DUP leader added: That is the job of political leaders and there is an awful lot said about who is going but very little said about who is not going and how you can represent fully the people of Northern Ireland and assume political office with responsibilities that that entails and refuse to go, not only to the White House, but an entire city, an entire populace and a political manifestation which is interested in and wants to support Northern Ireland, that makes no sense to me.
Here, we have a look at the issues likely to dominate political discourse in the week to come.

Triple lock change

The Government is set to move to amend the 'triple lock' which is currently required for Defence Forces personnel to take part in operations overseas.

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Under the current system, Ireland cannot deploy any more than 12 Defence Forces peacekeepers overseas without a peacekeeping mission being approved by a vote of the UN Security Council as well as approval by the Government and the Dail.

However, some government ministers have argued this is not serving Irish purposes well as the likes of Russia and China often veto UN Security Council resolutions.

Tanaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris will bring a proposal to Cabinet to amend Ireland's triple lock on the deployment of Defence Forces peacekeepers overseas.

Mr Harris will propose removing the UN resolution element in the triple lock.

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Mr Harris will also propose that the number of troops whose deployment requires a Dail vote be increased from 12 to 50;

Some opposition TDs have said such a move would undermine neutrality, while Sinn Fein's Matt Carthy called it a "kneejerk reaction".

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, former TD and soldier Cathal Berry said the triple lock is "nothing to do with Ireland's policy of neutrality".

He pointed out that it came into effect in 1960, and was relevant for UN 'blue beret' peacekeeping missions, which is still the case.

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However, before 2002 non-UN military operations abroad only required a 'double lock', of government and Dail approval. It was part of the Seville Declarations in the Nice treaty.

"That system worked and there was no issue for 42 years, from 1960 up until 2002. When they tampered with it, that's when the issues started to arise.

"There has been a number of issues Ireland has not been able to participate in because of the expansion of the triple lock to all military movements after 2002."

Martin faces dilemma over how to approach Trump White House meeting

The tense exchange between Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Donald Trump in the Oval Office continues to send shockwaves around the world.

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Taoiseach Micheal Martin will already be preparing for his approach to the meeting, where he will be under pressure to reiterate Ireland's support for Ukraine while also attempting to mitigate the damage of potential tariffs.

Mr Martin is likely to highlight Irish business' investment in the US, and the fact the country houses the European HQ of many US businesses.

Irish MEP reveals she had to 'really think' to spot deepfake of herself

A Fine Gael MEP has said she "really had to think" about whether a deepfake photo of her was real, as she highlighted issues around the misuse of fake images.

Speaking to BreakingNews.ie, Maria Walsh said the emergence of an online bank of deepfake images of Irish politicians and public figures highlights the need for urgent action at EU and national levels.

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Two images of Ms Walsh appeared on the site.

Deepfake likenesses of other politicians on CivitAI included the likes of Simon Harris, Micheal Martin, Helen McEntee, Mary Lou McDonald, Hildegarde Naughton, Roderic O'Gorman and Pearse Doherty.

Fianna Fail TD highlights benefits of AI

Fianna Fail TD Malcolm Byrne has said the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) will outweigh the negatives if Ireland embraces the technology.

Speaking in a recent Dail debate on AI, the Wicklow-Wexford TD said the notion that people's jobs would be replaced by AI was misguided. However, he believes people should be trained to integrate AI into their work.

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, Mr Byrne said: "The point I make is, it's not that robots are going to replace humans, but workers who use AI will replace workers who don't.

"Our challenge as a society is to have the debate around when and where we can use AI, but also how AI can eliminate a lot of mundane tasks and help improve health outcomes, decision-making, and efficiency.

"This is a transformational technology that is going to impact everything from agriculture to education to transport. That means the debate has to happen across all sectors."

Abroad

US president Donald Trump criticised Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday over comments he made that a deal to end the war with Russia was not near.

On his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump posted an Associated Press story headlined "Ukraine's Zelenskyy says end of war with Russia is 'very, very far away.'"

"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" Mr Trump wrote, using an alternate spelling of Zelenskiy.

The comments follow Mr Trump's public clash in the Oval Office with Mr Zelenskiy on Friday before what was expected to be the signing of an agreement on Ukraine's rich natural resources.

The deal was never signed after Mr Trump and his vice president, JD Vance, assailed the visiting leader as lacking gratitude for US aid and being disrespectful.

Mr Trump has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal.

The US president, who has led the push for a peace deal with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, said the European demand was showing weakness to the Kremlin.

His comments came as Sir Keir Starmer restated his call for strong US backing for any European-led peacekeeping force in Ukraine.
Millie Bobby Brown Bongiovi has made a handful of red carpet appearances since retiring her signature brunette locks in favour of bright blonde.

Her latest appearance was at the Brit Awards red carpet, where the 21-year-old actor wore a vintage 1920s Egyptian long cowl-neck gown sourced from London-based vintage dealer Annies Ibiza.

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Millie Bobby Brown wore a shimmering cowl neck gown with cascading blonde locks (Ian West/PA)

Brown had her hair in loose waves under a matching metallic hood.

The actor has made a number of red carpet appearances alongside her husband, Jake Bongiovi, since turning blonde.

Millie Bobby Brown alongside her husband Jake Bongiovi (Jordan Strauss/AP)

At premieres of her new Netflix film, The Electric State, which is based on a Swedish comic book of the same name set in an alternate version of the 1990s, Brown has showcased a smorgasbord of red carpet looks as a blonde bombshell.

At the Madrid premiere of The Electric State she wore a vintage Giorgio Armani dress, previously worn by Gwyneth Paltrow for the 1998 Shakespeare In Love premiere.

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The Stranger Things star channelled old-school glamour in the sheer column dress, her hair styled in sweeping Hollywood curls, and the embroidered gown was paired with a navy silk wrap.

Brown originally debuted her new tresses at the Screen Actors Guild Awards red carpet in Los Angeles last Sunday, wearing a custom Louis Vuitton peach silk gown and diamond earrings.

Millie Bobby Brown wore custom Louis Vuitton with a sleek bun at the SAG Awards 2025 (Jordan Strauss/AP)

Her statement blonde shade is inspired by Nineties bombshells including Britney Spears and Jessica Simpson.

Millie has been blonde before, but this time we really wanted to lean into those iconic Nineties blondes for her, explains Millie Bobby Browns hairstylist, Pete Burkill.

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Blonde always makes a statement, but this particular shade and style really amplify that bold, confident energy.

Millie Bobby Brown has gone for warmer colours since dying her hair blonde (Jordan Strauss/AP)

Burkill suggests Browns colour transformation is leaning into a new trend for high-maintenance hairstyles.

Its exciting to see people embracing more high-maintenance hair looks again, he says. For the past decade, especially post-Covid, low-maintenance styles like balayage have dominated, which, while beautiful, meant fewer salon visits.

Now, theres a shift toward these power blondes and the versatility that comes with them.

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At the LA premiere of The Electric State, Brown channelled full Pamela Anderson in a piled-up bun and another Annies Ibiza gown.

Millie Bobby Brown wore a shimmering gold gown at the LA premiere (Jordan Strauss/AP)

Only just debuting on the London Fashion Week runways a week earlier, Brown stepped out in a gold embellished gown with a matching beaded bolero, inspired by the women of the Renaissance including Joan of Arc.

My love for Leonardo da Vincis tireless pursuit of perfection and limitless imagination served as a guiding light throughout this collection, says Annie Doble, founder of the London-based label Annies Ibiza.

Millie Bobby Brown sported bangs and a loose bun at the LA premiere of The Electric State (Jordan Strauss/AP)

Annies Ibiza has quickly becoming a go-to for A-listers seeking unique, scene-stealing pieces, worn by the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift and Kate and Lila Moss.

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Browns red carpet looks have leant into a warmer colour palette since turning blonde, wearing peaches and golds that steer away from the cooler whites and silvers she wore as a brunette.

Millie Bobby Brown wore cooler tones on The Electric State circuit before turning blonde (Alamy/PA)

With awards season still in full swing, we cant wait to see what else Brown has up her sleeve.
An Australian warship has rescued a Lithuanian solo rower who encountered a tropical cyclone while attempting to cross the Pacific Ocean from California.

Aurimas Mockus was taken aboard Royal Australian Navy landing ship HMAS Choules on Monday, where he was undergoing a medical assessment, vice admiral Justin Jones said in a statement.

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The 44-year-old adventurer had been stranded for three days in the Coral Sea around 460 miles east of the Queensland coastal city of Mackay. He had rowed there in an enclosed boat from San Diego, headed for the Queensland capital Brisbane.

He began the 7,500-mile journey in October and was days away from Brisbane when he ran into the storm, which is forecast to cross the Australian coast within days.



Australian Navy sailors from HMAS Choules used an inflatable boat to rescue Lithuanian rower Aurimas Mockus, second right (CPOIS Helen Frank/Australian Defence Force/AP)

Brisbane is 500 miles south of Mackay by air.

Mr Mockus activated an emergency beacon on Friday after rowing into stormy seas and 50 mph winds generated by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said in a statement.

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The rescue authority sent a plane that made radio contact with Mr Mockus, reporting he was fatigued, on Saturday.

The warship is taking Mr Mockus south beyond Brisbane to Sydney, the navy said.

The cyclone continued to track south and on Monday was 280 miles east of Brisbane, authorities said. It is forecast to turn west and cross the Australian coast on Thursday or Friday.

Mr Mockus was attempting to become one of the few rowers who have crossed the Pacific alone and without stopping.

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Lithuanian rower Aurimas Mockus boat is photographed in heavy seas in the Coral Sea off the northeast coast of Australia (Australian Defence Force/AP)

Briton Peter Bird arguably became the first in 1983. He rowed from San Francisco and was towed the final 30 miles to the Australian mainland. He is considered to have rowed close enough to Australia to have made the crossing.

Compatriot John Beeden rowed from San Francisco to the Queensland city of Cairns in 2015 and is considered by some to have made the first successful crossing.

Australian Michelle Lee became the first woman to make the crossing in 2023, rowing from Ensenada in Mexico to Queenslands Port Douglas.

In 2022 another Australian, Tom Robinson, attempted to become the youngest to row across the Pacific, albeit with a break in the Cook Islands. He set out from Peru and spent 265 days at sea before he was rescued off Vanuatu in 2023.

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A wave capsized the 24-year-olds boat, leaving him clinging naked to the hull for 14 hours before he was rescued by a cruise ship that made a 124-mile detour to reach him.
A man in his 60s has been killed and four other people were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, police said.

Israeli authorities said the assailant was killed in the incident on Monday.

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Police said they were treating the stabbing in a central transit hub as a militant attack.

A security guard and a civilian killed the attacker, who police said was an Arab citizen of Israel who had recently returned to Israel after some time abroad.

The attack took place as regional tensions are high over the ceasefire in Gaza.

Militant group Hamas praised the attack but stopped short of claiming responsibility for it.
Oxfam Ireland has called Israel's blocking of humanitarian aid to Gaza 'a grave violation of international law'

The NGO, which focuses on the alleviation of global poverty, said Palestinians in Gaza are facing further hunger and starvation during Ramadan after Israel blocked all humanitarian aid into the territory.

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The illegal move from the Israeli government signals the halting of the start of the ceasefires second phase.

Speaking about the situation, Jim Clarken, chief executive of Oxfam Ireland said: "Israels decision to halt humanitarian aid, including vital Irish aid trucks ready to bring food and shelter to people in Gaza via Egypt, is a grave violation of international law and an act of collective punishment against a population already on the brink.

"The situation in Gaza is beyond critical - any further restrictions on aid will cost lives."

Mr Clarken said since last month six solar-powered desalination units from Oxfam have been stranded in Egypt as Gazans suffer under a severe water shortage.

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He said it is not a political bargaining tool - humanitarian aid is a fundamental and legal right and said "The Tanaiste has rightly expressed concern that Irish-funded aid may be delayed.

World Netanyahu apologises to Israeli hostage for taking... Read More

"The Irish government, along with the EU and international community, must demand that Israel immediately lift all barriers to aid access. The people of Gaza cannot wait."

He called the current of condition Gaza "catastrophic" saying that entire neighbourhoods have been obliterated, and famine-like conditions are worsening.

"The few shipments of aid that have made it through are a drop in the ocean compared to what is needed. The decision to block aid - especially during Ramadan, when families are struggling to survive without food, water, or shelter - is unconscionable."

"The International Court of Justice has been clearIsrael must ensure humanitarian aid reaches civilians. The Irish government must play its role in ensuring this is enforced," he said.
A spat between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has come as a windfall for the Kremlin, raising Moscows hopes for a halt in US assistance to Kyiv even as Russian troops seek to extend their gains in Ukraine.

The Oval Office meeting on Friday that exploded in acrimony when Mr Trump and US vice president JD Vance accused Mr Zelensky of refusing to negotiate peace and berated him for being ungrateful for US support so far has cast doubts over the future of US-Ukrainian relations.

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The Kremlin was quick to cast the White House encounter as a proof of Mr Zelenskys reluctance to negotiate an end to the three-year conflict.



Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks with the head of Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov, during their meeting at the Kremlin (Mikhail Metzel via AP)

What happened in the White House on Friday certainly showed how difficult it will be to get on the path to a Ukrainian settlement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

The Kyiv regime and Zelensky do not want peace, they want the war to continue.

He claimed that the White House blow-up has proven President Vladimir Putins statements about Kyivs refusal to hold peace talks.

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Mr Putin, who sent troops into Ukraine on February 24, 2022, has declared his openness for peace but demanded that Ukraine abandon its bid to join Nato and withdraw its troops from the four regions that Russia illegally annexed in 2022 but never fully captured.

President Putin was right when he said that despite the openness of the Russian side to the negotiation process, these good intentions run into the unwillingness of the Kyiv regime to maintain such dynamics, Mr Peskov said in a conference call with reporters.

We saw this to the full extent in Washington. In this situation, of course, Washingtons efforts and Moscows readiness alone will clearly not be enough, a crucial element is missing.

 Denigrating Zelenskyy

Mr Peskov said that Mr Putin watched the unprecedented White House encounter and took what happened into account.

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As a minimum, Zelensky has shown an utter lack of diplomatic skills, Mr Peskov told reporters.



President Donald Trump welcomes Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House in Washington DC (Ben Curtis/AP)

Commenting on the Ukrainian leaders refusal to recognise any loss of territory, Mr Peskov said it reflected his reluctance to recognise the battlefield situation.

You have to be blind not to see it, he declared.

Other Russian officials were even less diplomatic.

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Dmitry Medvedev, a deputy head of Russias Security Council chaired by Mr Putin, relished what he called a fierce scolding and a slap in the face for Mr Zelensky and voiced hope for a quick end to US military aid for Ukraine.

Pro-Kremlin media and commentators derided Mr Zelenskys attire and his negotiating style and described the meeting as a disaster for Ukraine.

Trump wiped his feet on Zelensky and Ukraine like a doormat, commented hardline ideologue Alexander Dugin.



Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky pauses during an interview with Fox News (Jose Luis Magana/AP)

Zelensky was thrown out of the White House like a garbage alley cat, gloated pro-Kremlin military analyst Igor Korotchenko.

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Russias flagship Sunday news show dedicated more than a third of its airtime  almost an hour  to the Trump-Zelensky clash, with anchor Dmitry Kiselyov mocking Zelensky for sporting his usual military-style garb at the White House and saying the Ukrainian leader looked like a loser and made a scene in the Oval Office.

 Assailing Europe

Mr Kiselyov also blasted EU leaders for seeking to prolong the fighting and suggested that a rift between the US and its European allies could potentially erode the influence of Nato and the EU on the global arena.

Right now everything is being decided within a new big triangle  Russia-China-the United States. It is in this triangle where a new world order will be developed, Mr Kiselyov mused, dismissing Sundays summit of European allies in London as almost clandestine and pointless.

Commenting on the London summit, Mr Peskov said it reflected the European reluctance to negotiate peace.

There is a group of countries that represent the party of war, which are declaring their readiness to continue to support Ukraine in a sense of supporting the war and ensuring the continuation of the hostilities, Mr Peskov said.



European leaders with President Volodymyr Zelensky during a summit on Ukraine in London (Christophe Ena via AP)

There were statements made about the need to urgently provide an increased level of funding for Ukraine  clearly not for a peace plan but for the continuation of military operations.

He added that European leaders will face a daunting task of trying to mend a rift between Washington DC and Kyiv.

Its clear that someone will have to make a considerable effort in terms of dialogue with Washington in order to somehow neutralise the probably unpleasant aftertaste that probably remained in the White House after talking with Zelensky, he said.

Mr Medvedev, a former liberal-leaning Russian president who has become one of the most hawkish Kremlin officials, denounced the London summit as the anti-Trump Russophobic coven, declaring that they want to continue the war till the last Ukrainian!



A participant holds a sign reading Europe, can you protect yourself? during an anti-Putin demonstration in Berlin (Hannes P Albert/dpa via AP)

Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov assailed Kyivs European allies for defying Mr Trumps push for peace and described Europe as a birthplace of conflict.

During the past 500 years, all tragedies of the world originated in Europe or were linked to European politics, he said in televised comments.

Mr Lavrov, who has previously warned that Moscow would not accept peacekeepers from any Nato members in case of a potential peace deal, has dismissed French and British proposals to deploy such a force as impudent.

This plan for the deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine is the continuation of efforts to incite the Kyiv regime to wage a war against us, he said.

 Russia to press on with military action

Mr Peskov emphasised that after Mr Trumps call with Mr Putin last month and US-Russian talk in Saudi Arabia, Moscow will continue negotiations with Washington DC on normalising ties, focusing on efforts to ensure the normal operations of the embassies after years of expulsions of diplomats.

At the same time, the Russian side will continue the special military operation to achieve the goals that have been set from the start, Mr Peskov said, using the Kremlins term for the war in Ukraine.



A Ukrainian serviceman prepares to launch a long-range drone in an undisclosed location in Ukraine (Evgeniy Maloletka/AP)

Many commentators in Moscow said that Europe would not be able to provide Ukraine with enough weapons if the US cuts military aid.

Europe says it will never abandon Ukraine, but it lacks resources to replace America, Fyodor Lukyanov, the head of Moscow-based Council for Foreign and Defence Policies, observed in an analysis.

An attempt at peaceful settlement has been thwarted, Mr Lukyanov said. It paves the way for the next stage of using force, probably in a tougher way.
Donald Trump has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal.

The US president, who has led the push for a peace deal with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, said the European demand was showing weakness to the Kremlin.

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His comments came as Sir Keir Starmer restated his call for strong US backing for any European-led peacekeeping force in Ukraine.

(Donald Trump on TruthSocial)

The UK prime minister gathered leaders from Europe and Canada, including Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskiy, for talks in London on Sunday.

The US president also criticised Mr Zelenskiy  just days after their heated Oval Office clash  for suggesting a deal to end the war with Russia is still very, very far away.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer, Mr Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

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It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US  probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia.

What are they thinking?

Sir Keir Starmer updated MPs following intensive diplomatic efforts around the Ukraine crisis (House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA)

Speaking in the UK House of Commons, Mr Starmer again promised British troops and jets would be available to a peacekeeping force if a deal is done to end the war, along with a coalition of the willing from other nations.

It is right that Europe do the heavy lifting to support peace on our continent, he said.

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But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing.

The UK prime minister said the proposed minerals deal between the US and Ukraine is not enough of a security guarantee on its own.

Plans for Mr Trump and Mr Zelenskiy to sign the minerals deal were put on hold after the Ukrainian leader left the White House early following their Oval Office bust-up.

But Mr Zelenskiy has since suggested he is ready to sign it.

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Mr Trump had suggested the deal would effectively act as the security backstop from the US that Mr Starmer has called for.

But asked in the House of Commons whether the US presence brought by that deal would in itself be enough of a security guarantee, Mr Starmer said no.

The mineral deal is not enough on its own, Mr Starmer said in response to a question from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, an ally of Mr Trump.

Mr Starmer said Mr Trumps commitment to peace was sincere and that a security guarantee should be led by Europe but needs US backing.

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Mr Starmer told MPs Britain needs to lead from the front and that the European coalition of the willing has been formed to avoid moving at the speed of the most reluctant and that will be too slow.

He also cautioned against accepting a weak deal.

Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelenskiy, prime minister Sir Keir Starmer and Frances president Emmanuel Macron met during the summit on Sunday (Justin Tallis/PA)

Earlier, the UK played down suggestions it supported a one-month truce in Ukraine as an initial step.

Downing Street said various options are on the table but insisted no plan has been agreed after Frances president, Emmanuel Macron, said his country and Britain are backing the prospect of a limited ceasefire.

The prime ministers official spokesman said: What Im not going to do is provide a running commentary on those options, but there are clearly a number of options on the table.

But Mr Starmer is clear that any peace deal must be lasting, it must be durable, it must ensure that Ukraine has got significant defensive capabilities.

Key to the discussions, led by Britain and France, has been an insistence on the inclusion of an American backstop as part of any peacekeeping deal in order to deter future Russian aggression.

World Russia relishes Trump-Zelensky spat and accuses Uk... Read More

UK defence secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move discussions forward (Yui Mok/PA)

UK defence secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week for talks with his counterpart Pete Hegseth.
US President Donald Trump has said that 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada will start on Tuesday, sparking renewed fears of a North American trade war.

Tomorrow  tariffs 25% on Canada and 25% on Mexico. And thatll start, Mr Trump told reporters in the Roosevelt Room.

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Mr Trump has said the tariffs are to force the two US neighbours to step up their fight against fentanyl trafficking into the US.

Mr Trump provided a one-month delay in February as both countries promised concessions.

But the president said on Monday that there was no room left for Mexico or for Canada to avoid the steep new tariffs.

US stock markets moved sharply lower after Mr Trumps comments.

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Mr Trump said he would also add on another 10% tariff on goods from China, on top of the initial 10% he put in place last month.
The UK has downplayed French proposals for a one-month truce in Ukraine as a minister warned a temporary pause in the fighting could give Russia time to regroup and attack again.

British armed forces minister Luke Pollard said various options were on the table but insisted no plan had been agreed after Frances president Emmanuel Macron said his country and Britain were backing the prospect of a limited ceasefire.

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened an emergency summit of European leaders over the weekend as allies scramble to find a way forward following the Oval Office row between Donald Trump, JD Vance and Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky, left, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, centre, and Frances president Emmanuel Macron met during the summit on Sunday (Justin Tallis/PA)

The British Prime Minister is expected to update MPs on his meeting with the US president in Washington last week and his conversations with European counterparts on Sunday.

Speaking to broadcasters on Monday morning, Mr Pollard distanced the British Government from claims that a Franco-British proposal for a one-month truce covering air, sea and attacks on critical infrastructure had been presented to the summit.

No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, and so I dont recognise the precise part you mentioned there, he told Times Radio.

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But he appeared to signal that military deployments to Ukraine from European countries would be possible even without the US backstop sought by the UK Prime Minister and allies.

Asked whether troops could be sent to Kyiv with or without an American guarantee, he said: Military deployments are possible. But the point is, we want a durable and lasting peace.

And this is where its really important to understand the distinction between a short pause, which might be able to be achieved, but that doesnt sustain a durable peace, because theres a genuine worry by President Zelensky and the Ukrainians that a short pause will simply allow the Russian forces to reconstitute, to rearm, to regroup and then to attack again.

His message appeared at odds with that of Eleonore Caroit, a deputy in the French National Assembly for the Renaissance party and vice president of the UK Foreign Affairs Committee.

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She told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that plans for a ceasefire in Ukraine sent a very strong message and showed that if we want, we can do something.

As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate.



Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The pic.twitter.com/inGxdO8jQz  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

Its not despair but seeing your strongest and longest ally, the US, have the attitude that they had a few days ago is of concern of course, she said.

And this shows that were capable of making proposals and that these proposals can lead somewhere.

Key to the discussions, led by Britain and France, has been an insistence on the inclusion of an American backstop as part of any peacekeeping deal in order to deter future Russian aggression.

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The US has not yet committed to providing any such security guarantee, which the UK sees as essential to ensuring a durable and lasting ceasefire.

British Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move discussions forward (Yui Mok/PA)

Mr Pollard insisted that Washington remains our closest security ally and that Britain trusts intelligence sent to America will not reach the Kremlin.

British Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move discussions forward, with military delegates and other officials also due to fly over to the country.

In other developments over the weekend:

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 Mr Zelensky told reporters he is prepared to stand down in exchange for Nato membership, and suggested he is ready to sign the minerals deal with the US.

 Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau will meet the King of England and raise the US presidents threat to annex Canada  a Commonwealth nation  with the monarch.

 President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen has said she will present a plan to rearm Europe in the coming days.

 British Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off on a 2.26 billion (2.73 billion) loan scheme to help Ukraine buy weapons and fund its reconstruction after the war, which will be repaid with the profits of frozen Russian assets.

 The Liberal Democrats in the UK have called on the Government to bring forward emergency legislation on Monday in Parliament to begin the seizure of Russian assets frozen in European banks.
Israel has halted all shipments of goods and humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, warning of further consequences if Hamas does not accept a new ceasefire proposal.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from international mediators, including Egypt, which accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon.

The first phase of the ceasefire agreementreached after months of negotiationslasted six weeks and expired on Saturday. Under the agreement, Hamas released Israeli hostages in exchange for imprisoned Palestinians, while Israel temporarily pulled back its forces and allowed increased humanitarian aid into the war-ravaged enclave. The second phaseexpected to secure the release of remaining hostages and establish a lasting ceasefirehas yet to be negotiated.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the decision to block all aid, stating that Israel would not extend the truce unless Hamas continues releasing hostages, AP News reported. He emphasized that Israel remains in full coordination with President Donald Trump's administration and would resume fighting if it deemed negotiations unproductive.

The blockade has triggered concerns over worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where over 2 million people rely on aid for survival. Prices of essential goods have doubled since the closure, and local residents warn of impending famine and chaos.

The new Israeli proposal, reportedly backed by the U.S., seeks to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover. It calls for Hamas to release half of the remaining hostages immediately, with the rest freed once a deal is reached on a permanent ceasefire. However, Hamas has rejected any plan that does not guarantee an end to the war and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Negotiations are complicated further by new plans from President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly stated that he plans to force relocation of Palestinians and rebuild Gaza as a tourism destination.

As tensions escalate, mediators, including Egypt, continue efforts to salvage the negotiations, while international observers warn that the blockade and stalled talks could plunge Gaza back into crisis.

Originally published on Latin Times
US president Donald Trump criticised Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday over comments he made that a deal to end the war with Russia was not near.

On his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump posted an Associated Press story headlined "Ukraine's Zelenskyy says end of war with Russia is 'very, very far away.'"

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"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" Mr Trump wrote, using an alternate spelling of Zelenskiy.

The comments follow Mr Trump's public clash in the Oval Office with Mr Zelenskiy on Friday before what was expected to be the signing of an agreement on Ukraine's rich natural resources.

The deal was never signed after Mr Trump and his vice president, JD Vance, assailed the visiting leader as lacking gratitude for US aid and being disrespectful.

Mr Trump has hit out at calls from European leaders for the US to provide security guarantees for any Ukraine peace deal.

The US president, who has led the push for a peace deal with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, said the European demand was showing weakness to the Kremlin.

His comments came as Sir Keir Starmer restated his call for strong US backing for any European-led peacekeeping force in Ukraine.
A deal to end the war between Ukraine and Russia is still very, very far away, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said.

He added that he believed Ukraines long-term partnership with the US was strong enough that American support would continue despite recent fraught relations with US President Donald Trump.

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I think our relationship (with the US) will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship, Mr Zelensky said, referring to Washingtons support for the past three years of war.

I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America to keep aid flowing, he said at a briefing in Ukrainian before leaving London.

Mr Zelensky publicly was upbeat despite the recent heated Oval Office blow up with Mr Trump and US vice president JD Vance during which they accused him of being disrespectful and said he should show more gratitude for Americas help.

The turn of events is unwelcome for Ukraine, whose understrength army is having a hard time keep bigger Russian forces at bay.

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Asked by a reporter to comment about the outlines of a new European initiative to end Russias war, Mr Zelensky said: We are talking about the first steps today, and therefore, until they are on paper, I would not like to talk about them in great detail.

An agreement to end the war is still very, very far away, and no one has started all these steps yet.



Friedrich Merz said that he did not think last Fridays Oval Office blow-up was spontaneous (Ebrahim Noroozi/PA)

The peace that we foresee in the future must be just, honest, and most importantly, sustainable.

Mr Trump slammed Mr Zelensky later on Monday for suggesting that the end of Russias war against Ukraine is still far off.

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This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Mr Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia, Mr Trump added in his post. What are they thinking?

The White House wants Mr Zelensky to show more openness to potential concessions in order to bring the fighting to an end, but Mr Zelensky resisted that idea while pressing for security guarantees from Washington during last Fridays meeting.

Friedrich Merz, Germanys likely next leader after the recent election, said on Monday that he did not think last Fridays Oval Office blow-up was spontaneous.

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US President Donald Trump meets with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington DC (Mstyslav Chernov/AP)

He said that he had watched the scene repeatedly.

My assessment is that it wasnt a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but apparently an induced escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office, Mr Merz said.

He said that he was somewhat astonished by the mutual tone, but there has been a certain continuity to what we are seeing from Washington at the moment in recent weeks.

I would advocate for us preparing to have to do a great, great deal more for our own security in the coming years and decades, he said.

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Even so, Mr Merz said that he wanted to keep the trans-Atlantic relationship alive.

I would also advocate doing everything to keep the Americans in Europe, he said.
Brisbane and northern NSW will face more damaging winds, torrential rain, huge swells and power outages. What is its predicted path? Alfred was 65 kilometres north north-east of Brisbane and 40 kilometres south south-east of Maroochydore at 6.30am AEST, but the storm system is impacting the coast from about Coolangatta, on the Queensland-NSW border, to Ballina, in northern NSW. Ex-tropical cyclone Alfred lies off Bribie Island and is moving slowly north. Gales are no longer occurring over coastal or island locations. It is expected to move towards and cross the mainland coast this morning, with winds weakening further as it moves inland. Where is it expected to flood?

More than 20,000 properties in Brisbane could experience anything from mild inundation in their backyards to significant flooding in their homes. The Brisbane suburbs at most risk include Brighton, Windsor, Ashgrove, Morningside, Rocklea, Coopers Plains, Carina, Sandgate, Hemmant, Lota, Tingalpa, Indooroopilly, Albion, Bardon and Wynnum West. A flood watch is in place from the Mary River north of Brisbane, all the way down to the NSW border. The weather bureau says the heaviest rainfall and the greatest potential for severe flash flooding will be south of where Alfred makes landfall. The winds around a cyclone travel in a clockwise direction, so the heaviest winds and strongest rainfall occurs on the southern flank of the system, BOM senior meteorologist Kimba Wong says.

Loading Nearly half a years worth of rain, around 400 millimetres, is expected to fall in Brisbane in just 24 hours. More than 800 millimetres of rain is possible in Brisbane from late Wednesday, putting the south-east corner at risk of severe, potentially deadly flooding. The heavy rain is likely to intensify Friday and continue into the weekend. Parts of NSWs north-east are forecast to be drenched with up to 800mm of rain from Wednesday to Saturday.

Residents in parts of NSWs Northern Rivers region have been ordered to evacuate and thousands remain without power as the slow-moving tropical cyclone edges closer to land. Almost 100 warnings, including evacuation warnings, are in place across regions in north-east NSW. See the Bureau of Meteorologys warnings summary here. Forecast accumulated rain over the seven days ending on Sunday, March 9. Credit: Weatherzone.com.au Why is Alfred so low? There are a few contributing factors, Wong says.

The water temperature in the southern Coral Sea is much warmer than usual  about 26 to 27 degrees  which is helping fuel Alfred. Also, Alfred is largely being steered by an upper trough currently sitting over eastern Australia that is driving it south. Whats changing is that the upper trough is being replaced by an upper ridge, in kind of like a wave pattern. Its that upper ridge that will change the direction of the cyclone and see it head west, towards the Queensland coast, Wong says. What has the Queensland government said?

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli told residents on Monday, Nows the time to prepare, including having tinned food, making an emergency kit, gathering passports and clearing debris from properties. Loading He also urged residents to consider evacuating while it was still an option. The evacuation centres are a last resort, Crisafulli told a news conference on Friday, adding that dozens of centres had been opened. Have an evacuation plan if you are in one of those areas, he urged those in the cyclones path, advising them to secure their homes before evacuating.

If in doubt, go and stay with friends and families. The Queensland government has asked telecommunications companies to increase network capacity to cope with an expected jump in internet usage and millions of messages throughout the emergency. It has also asked supermarkets to ensure shelves were regularly restocked amid a rush for bottled water and other essential items. Residents have started fleeing their homes, schools have closed, public transport has been cancelled and two Black Hawk helicopters are on standby, as residents stay home and businesses close their doors. Sandbagging stations have opened across the region, with hundreds of people queuing for hours at council and SES depots. What has the NSW government said?

Those in Alfreds firing line in NSWs Northern Rivers were told to leave by 9pm on Thursday or risk not being able to evacuate. Loading The town of Lismore, which was devastated by record flooding in 2022, has been warned its CBD is at risk of flooding again, with residents urged to evacuate just after 9pm on Thursday. The town received more than 100 millimetres of rain on Thursday as residents hunkered down. The Bureau of Meteorology said on Friday afternoon that Lismore would be likely to flood by Saturday morning, and the SES urged residents not to enter floodwaters. River level rises are occurring along the Wilsons River and Leycester Creek, and moderate flooding is expected at Lismore from Friday evening, the Bureau said in a statement.

The river is likely to exceed the major flood level around early Saturday morning. If rainfall continues to intensify overnight, river levels may reach near the height of the Lismore Levee (10.6 metres) late Saturday morning. The NSW State Emergency Service will deploy additional flood rescue and storm response staff to the Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers. We have also sent communication equipment, support personnel, aviation resources and specialised vehicles ahead of the forecasted impacts later this week, NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said. NSW Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib assured locals the authorities are doing everything we can to prepare for the looming system. Were cognisant of what the Northern Rivers have gone through and some of the trauma that they carry, he said.

What is a category 1 cyclone? Category1 cyclones can generate destructive wind gusts of up to 100km/h, which can bring down trees and power lines, topple caravans, tear boats from their moorings and damage houses. Cyclone categories are all based on the wind strength, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. However, the categories do not take into account the severity of the rain or potential flooding. A category 1 cyclone can bring more rain and flooding than a fast-moving category 5 that rips through an area, Wong says. How long is Alfred expected to last?
Bottled water and batteries were being stripped from supermarket shelves in the hours after Queensland Premier David Crisafulli told residents to get prepared for Cyclone Alfred.

Coles at Westfield Carindale had nearly sold out of bottled water by Monday morning, while Woolworths in Kenmore also had no water left in stock.

A staff member at Coles in Cannon Hill said that bottled water had sold out by 9am this morning.

Staff at Woolworths in Morningside said that water, toilet paper and some meat products were disappearing fast.
Melbournes activity centres risk becoming places where people dont want to live if the design process is not improved, prominent state planners have warned.

They say the Victorian government has not followed its own rules in hatching its 10 pilot housing hubs, which normally need to be backed by demographic, economic, transport and infrastructure analysis.

Ringwood Square is in the core of an activity centre. Credit: Justin McManus

Following the Allan governments week of housing announcements, Patrick Fensham, the Victorian president of the Planning Institute of Australia, said that while reform was needed to support the delivery of more homes in established areas, people also had to be confident the citys 60 so-called activity centres increased liveability.

The activity in the activity centres hasnt had sufficient attention, Fensham said.
Tropical cyclones conjure images of tornado-like winds ripping roofs from houses, uprooting trees, tearing boats from their moorings and blowing in windows and doors.

But history shows that the biggest threat from the weather system is the possible flooding that will hit after the cyclone breaks down.

Residents in south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales are on high alert, waiting to see where Tropical Cyclone Alfred may cross the coastline this week.

However, the worst damage could come when the weather system becomes an ex-tropical cyclone  a huge, slow-moving storm system that causes widespread flooding.
Anthony Albaneses hopes of being returned to the Lodge with teal backing have been damaged by an escalating feud between the independent MPs and Special Minister of State Don Farrell, who have traded accusations of sexism and berating of government staffers.

Farrell pushed landmark reform to cap political donations through federal parliament last month over the objections of teals as well as Labor cabinet ministers who argued it would damage relations with the independents whose backing Albanese may need if he fails to win a majority at the election due by May.

From left: Special Minister for State Don Farrell, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and teal MPs Kate Chaney and Zoe Daniel. Credit: Marija Ercegovac

The Coalition agreed to pass the laws over teal objections that the reforms would give major parties a financial advantage, angering independents who had repeatedly met with Farrell as he sought to build a consensus that the reforms were fair.

Goldstein MP Zoe Daniel warned that Farrells changes had badly damaged Labors relationship with the teals ahead of an election. Labor has ruled out entering into a formal coalition with the independents but could need crossbench support to stay in power and pass individual bills.
Those lamenting the demise of P&O Cruises Australia will find two of its ships sailing onwards and retaining some  but not all  of the familiar features.

Last June we reported that Carnival Corporation would be retiring the P&O Cruises Australia brand and absorbing two of its ships, Pacific Encounter and Pacific Adventure, into the Carnival Cruise fleet.

Fairstar, on location in paradise. Credit: Fairfax Archives

That became a reality this month, with the two ships reemerging as Carnival Encounter and Carnival Adventure. A third, Pacific Explorer, has been sold to Resorts World Cruises and will be renamed and rebranded Star Scorpio, slated to operate out of Singapore from late March 2025.

Its an ignoble end for the P&O brand here. The company first based a permanent ship (Fairstar) in Australia in 1988. In 2000, a company restructure saw the creation of P&O Cruises Australia and millions of Australians will have happy holiday memories of sailing on board ships such as Pacific Dawn, Pacific Jewel, Pacific Sky and Pacific Star.
London: Keir Starmer rose to his feet in the House of Commons with more purpose than at any time during his short and, until recently, rather directionless premiership.

The future of Ukraine is vital for our national security, the British prime minister said, to cheers across both sides of the chamber.

Russia is a menace in our waters and our skies. Britain will lead from the front for the security of our continent, our country.

Seizing the moment: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Credit: Getty Images

It has fallen to Starmer, just seven months into his reign at Downing Street, to try to hold together a rapidly fraying trans-Atlantic alliance long enough to find a potential breakthrough in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict. It was not by choice but by necessity. He appears, thus far, to have seized the occasion.
In the flurry of executive orders issued by the 47th US president in his first 100 days, none is more devastating  or more deadly  than the suspension of USAID. The agency, founded by president John F. Kennedy in 1961, has been dismantled at the behest of Elon Musk, the worlds richest man, now imposing misery on the most vulnerable. More than 2000 USAID staff have already been dismissed.

USAID accounts for less than 0.5 per cent of the US budget, making its suspension ineffective in reducing the deficit but devastating for those who rely on it. I have just returned from Kenya and Uganda, where antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for HIV and tuberculosis treatments have vanished overnight.

Empty containers for antiretroviral medication in Mulago Hospital in Kampala, Uganda, which provides essential care for AIDS patients. The USAID cuts are causing anxiety among staff and medicos alike. Credit: Getty Images

USAID administers George W. Bushs historic Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which has been the backbone of AIDS treatment across Africa. To date, that plan has saved more than 25 million African lives. It has been suspended without warning. In Kenya, thousands of health professionals may lose their jobs, and aid dollars already approved by Congress have been frozen. NGOs and local communities are shocked by the suddenness and the savagery.

At a Nairobi clinic, an elderly Kenyan clinician who has spent 30 years building a hospital told us: With ARV drugs and TB medication gone, I am terribly afraid for our patients. Another doctor in a nearby slum clinic echoed the same concerns: Without the medications supplied by USAID, how will these people live?
A FedEx cargo plane was forced to make an emergency return to Newark Liberty International Airport Saturday morning after a bird strike led to an engine fire.

The incident, which occurred at around 8 am, prompted a brief shutdown of the airport, though operations resumed shortly after, according to Lenis Valens, a spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.

According to NYTimes, the Boeing 767 was en route to Indianapolis when the bird strike damaged one of its engines. The crew declared an emergency and safely returned to Newark, where the aircraft was met by fire and rescue teams.

The aircraft, with three individuals on board, landed safely, and fortunately, no injuries were reported. The fire was confined to the engine, and the plane was rendered inoperable on the runway.

"We need to return to the airport," was heard in a recording captured by LiveATC, as the crew realized the severity of the bird strike. A few moments later, another voice noted, "We believe we saw their engine fall off the right wing." The bird strike occurred when the plane was only several hundred feet off the ground.

Photos show damage to the fan and exhaust section of FedEx Boeing 767-300 that made an emergency landing after a bird strike at Newark, NJ yesterday.

 by @theavindex pic.twitter.com/5YRlTqZqDM  aircraftmaintenancengineer (@airmainengineer) March 2, 2025

FedEx Pilots Praised for Calm Response Following Emergency Bird Strike Landing

The FedEx spokesperson, Austin Kemker, praised the professionalism of the flight crew, stating, "The training, expertise, and professionalism demonstrated by our FedEx pilots was exemplary. We are thankful for the quick actions of our crew and first responders."

Kenneth Hoffman, a fellow pilot, echoed this sentiment, saying, "They handled it like champs," referring to the crew's calm response, CBS News said.

Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have initiated investigations into the incident.

According to the FAA, the bird strike caused significant damage to one of the plane's engines. While bird strikes are not uncommon, they rarely cause substantial damage or lead to emergency landings.

The bird strike incident comes amid a series of aviation mishaps, including a midair collision between an Army helicopter and a passenger plane, which killed 67 people, and several recent incidents involving major airlines.

Despite the increasing number of aviation incidents, experts like CBS News aviation safety analyst Robert Sumwalt believe the timing of these events is coincidental.

Bird strikes are a known hazard for aviation, and in 2023, the FAA reported over 19,000 wildlife strikes across U.S. airports. Although these incidents often do not result in injuries, they can cause significant disruptions, as seen with the emergency landing in Newark.

Originally published on vcpost.com
The development, which follows the re-election of Carmel Hourigan as president of the Property Council, will see Leggatt step into the shoes of Stuart Penklis, former chair and current CEO of development for Mirvac, who will continue his service on the RDC board.
Civil rights attorneys have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration to prevent the transfer of undocumented immigrants from the United States to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), alongside other advocacy groups, contends that the policy is illegal and denies detainees their constitutional rights.

The lawsuit specifically seeks to block the transfer of ten individuals currently detained in the U.S., arguing that their relocation to Guantanamo would violate federal law and due process protections under the Fifth Amendment. The lawsuit is the second filed by the ACLU in less than a month, after a February 12 one which denounced that migrants transferred to the U.S. detention facility were being held without access to legal counsel or communication with the outside world.

Through a statement on the organization's website, Lee Gelernt, deputy director of the ACLU's Immigrants' Rights Project, provided insight into the latest lawsuit:

"The purpose of this second Guantanamo lawsuit is to prevent more people from being illegally sent to this notorious prison, where the conditions have now been revealed to be inhumane"

The Trump administration has justified its use of Guantanamo by citing national security concerns. In a January 29 executive order, President Trump declared that the expansion of operations at the naval base was part of a broader strategy to "dismantle criminal cartels."

Saturday's lawsuit does not challenge the U.S. government's authority to detain migrants on U.S. soil, or to deport them directly to their home country or another country allowed under immigration law. Instead, the suit argue that it is illegal for the U.S. to first send those migrants to Guantanamo.

The ACLU's first lawsuit, filed on February 12, alleged that individuals already held at Guantanamo had been placed incommunicado, without access to legal counsel or family. According to court filings, at least 50 people had been transferred to the facility at that time, though the number may now be closer to 200.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded by stating that detainees can contact attorneys by phone. However, the ACLU and its partners argue that this is insufficient given the isolated nature of the facility. "By hurrying immigrants off to a remote island cut off from lawyers, family, and the rest of the world, the Trump administration is sending its clearest signal yet that the rule of law means nothing to it," Gelernt said upon filing the previous suit.

Originally published on Latin Times
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Postal Code
A Florida woman was arrested after allegedly stealing electricity, releasing her dogs to attack utility workers and injuring a deputy during her arrest.

The incident unfolded just before 11 a.m. February 25 in Lake Wales, Florida, when Duke Energy employees arrived at the home of 28-year-old Tiffany Perkins to investigate a possible theft of utilities.

After previously cutting off her power, the company suspected Perkins had illegally reconnected her electricity, Fox 13 reported. When the workers attempted to address the issue, she allegedly set her dogs on them, prompting law enforcement intervention.

A deputy responding to the call attempted to arrest Perkins, but she resisted. As the deputy approached her, one of her Great Danes attacked, causing injuries to his arm and eye.

Additional officers from the Polk County Sheriff's Office arrived and used a Taser to subdue her before taking her into custody. Authorities later confirmed she had been reportedly stealing electricity and found a second Great Dane on her property in severely poor health.

Both animals were removed by Animal Control. Perkins was charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated assault, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, theft of utility services and animal cruelty.

Perkins is currently being held at the Polk County Jail on a $48,500 bond. Authorities also cited her for additional violations related to property conditions, including an open septic system and illegal waste disposal.

Originally published on Latin Times
Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 8:05AM

Image: Microsoft

Microsoft has announced that Skype, the once-dominant video-calling service, will be retired in May 2025. The company will now focus on Microsoft Teams as its primary communication platform. Skype, launched in 2003 and acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for $8.5 billion, played a pivotal role in popularizing free computer-to-computer voice and video calls. However, its user base has dwindled in recent years as competitors like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger gained prominence.

The move comes as Microsoft aims to streamline its consumer communication offerings. According to a company blog post, Microsoft Teams offers the same core features as Skype, such as one-on-one and group calls, messaging, and file sharing, along with enhanced features like meeting hosting and calendar management. The company cited a fourfold increase in meeting minutes among consumer Teams users in the past two years, reflecting the platform's growing popularity.

Skype users are now being offered two options: migrate to Microsoft Teams using their existing Skype credentials, which will automatically transfer their chats and contacts, or export their Skype data, including chats, contacts, and call history. Microsoft is facilitating a transition period where Teams and Skype users can communicate with each other across platforms. Paid Skype features will no longer be offered to new customers, though existing subscribers can continue using their services until their next renewal.

SOURCE: 1 + 2
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Zip Code
This is it. The excise tax exemption on pickup trucks is now gone thanks to the effectivity of the Capital Market Efficiency Promotions Act ...
BUSINESSES across Carlow are invited to fortify their defences against modern security threats at the Fortify SME Business Breakfast: cyber, physical, systems and fraud protection on Thursday 6 March in the Seven Oaks Hotel, Carlow.

This event is designed to equip small businesses with security tools and strategies and is part of Local Enterprise Week organised by the County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, Kilkenny and Carlow county councils Local Enterprise Offices. In an era of increasing interconnectedness, SMEs face a wide range of security risks from cyberattacks and physical breaches to system vulnerabilities and fraudulent schemes. This breakfast event will provide actionable insights into mitigating these risks.

Seamus Doran, assistant head of economic development and enterprise in Carlow County Council's Local Enterprise Office, emphasised the crucial nature of this event for local businesses: The Fortify SME Business Breakfast offers a unique opportunity for businesses in Carlow and Kilkenny to gain expert knowledge and practical strategies to protect their operations. We are committed to supporting our local SMEs and this event is a key initiative in that effort.

Joanne Sweeney, event MC and digital marketing expert, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the event: I am delighted to be part of an event that addresses such a critical issue for SMEs. The landscape of security threats is constantly evolving and it's essential for businesses to stay informed and prepared. I look forward to facilitating insightful discussions and helping attendees connect with the experts, who can help them build a more resilient business. The event will feature presentations from Sergeant Eoin OConnell of the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau (GNCCB) on the current cyber-threat landscape. Sinead McCaul, Bank of Ireland, on fraud protection. Stephen Burke, Security Risk Advisers, on strengthening cybersecurity frameworks. Colin Hayes, Netwatch, on enhancing security for SMEs and Tom Walshe from Business IT Solutions on best practices in systems protection. The event will also include a networking breakfast and a panel discussion featuring all the experts. Register to attend for free at localenterprise.ie/carlow and localenterprise.ie/kilkenny
Fiona Magennis

A murder accused told gardai that he pushed and hit his partner during an argument after he claimed he found her having a party with her brother and another tall guy hours before she was found stabbed to death in her home, a trial has heard.

During his first interview with gardai, Daniel Blanaru also told officers that the person who made a mistake on the night was his partner because, she should have the respect for me as a man".

Mr Blanaru (37), from Rathmore, Athboy, Co Meath, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his partner, Larisa Serban (26) at their home on or about August 12th, 2022.

The jury at the Central Criminal Court on Monday viewed portions of a video recording of Mr Blanarus first interview in Ashbourne Garda Station with Detective Sergeant Mark Looby and Detective Garda Padraig ORourke on August 12th, 2022.

In the interview, Mr Blanaru, speaking through a Romanian interpreter, told the detectives that he had been at a party in Navan the previous night, getting home at around midnight.

He said when he got to his house, Larisa was there with her brother David and a tall guy.

Argument

Mr Blanaru said he asked what was going on and Ms Serban said they were having a party. He said there was cocaine on the table and he asked his wife: Why are you doing this in our house and why are you allowing those things to happen?

Mr Blanaru said Larisas brother came to him and the two men had an argument.

He said he told his partners brother: You should have a bit of respect.

Mr Blanaru then told gardai: The person who made a mistake is my wife. She should have the respect for me as a man.

He said he told David to get out of the house and then Larisa told Mr Blanaru to leave.

And I ask her what do you mean for me to get out of my own house? I said let them get out of my house, said Mr Blanaru. We kind of try to push each other and tall guy separated us.

He said he then argued with his wife asking her: Who is this guy? If he is here at the party where is his partner? before telling Larisa that, this means that you [are] with this guy.

Mr Blanaru said they then told him they would call 999 if he wouldnt get out of the house.

He continued: I know that I pushed her. I know that I hit her. And then the tall guy tried to get between us, and I asked the tall guy why are you getting involved you have no right to get between us?.

He said Ms Serbans brother then got in between the couple and told Mr Blanaru to get out.

She told me if I wont get out of the house she is going to call the police. And I said you see what you are doing you throw me out of the house, he said.

Facebook call

The accused then said he went to Drogheda and from there he called Larisas Facebook but she didnt answer.

And then I called my brother to go and see whats happening there, he said.

Mr Blanaru told gardai he then went to Drogheda Garda Station and from that point I didnt know anything else. He said his solicitor and gardai informed him that Larisa was dead.

Prosecution counsel Eilis Brennan SC then read a portion of the memo of interview in which Mr Blanaru was asked about the party in Navan he said he had attended.

The accused told gardai it had been a gypsy party and took place at a property in the centre of town.

Asked about the tall guy he said was in the house with Larisa and her brother when he got home, Mr Blanaru said the man was tall with white coloured skin, black hair and a moustache. He said the man was Romanian but not gypsy.

During questioning, Mr Blanaru said he first met Larisa in Carrickmacross at the end of 2016 having first interacted on Facebook when he had a phone for sale. Thats how we started talking and meeting, he said. Asked if the couple were married, Mr Blanaru said not legally going on to tell the detectives that he and Larisa had received a blessing in the Pentecostal Church.

The trial continues on Tuesday before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon and an enlarged jury of eleven men and four women.
Alison ORiordan

A 50-year-old woman, who used excessive force in self-defence when she fatally stabbed her partner in a Dublin apartment "in response to an anticipated attack", has been jailed for five years.

The Central Criminal Court previously heard that Ann Phelan, who had her own "demons with drugs" and led a "disruptive life", told gardai she was in "total fear", that she didn't mean to kill her ex-partner David Ennis, and what had happened was a "tragic accident".

The court heard that Mr Ennis had suffered head injuries after a fall from a balcony a few days before he was killed and had been behaving aggressively.

Phelan's barrister, Fiona Murphy SC, alongside Carol Doherty BL, had informed the court during a sentencing hearing that her client was "tortured by her actions" and had genuinely cared for Mr Ennis.

The pair were "in a relationship of sorts" for two to three years where drugs were "sadly" a feature, the court heard.

Sentencing Phelan at the Central Criminal Court on Monday, presiding judge Mr Justice Paul Burns noted that the defendant was acting in self-defence in response to an anticipated attack from the deceased.

It was confirmed by a detective at the sentence hearing that the defendant thought Mr Ennis had a knife at the time. Phelan also thought she had stabbed him in the arm, but the knife had gone into his side.

The judge pointed out today that Phelan had used a knife against an unarmed man and that arming herself with such a weapon was one of the aggravating factors in the case.

Ann Phelan was originally charged with the murder of David Ennis (36) at Claddagh Court in Ballyfermot on the night of November 8th, 2022.

However, last November, Phelan, of Aylward Green, Finglas, Dublin 11, pleaded guilty to manslaughter when she was arraigned before the court.

Phelan has 26 previous convictions, of which the majority are for public order offences and non-appearance before court. She has no convictions for assault but does hold a conviction for violent behaviour in a garda station dating back to 2018.

In a victim impact statement read to the court last month by the detective in the case, the deceased's mother, Geraldine Ennis, said her son was "a hard-working man in his day and always helped me out whenever he could".

Mrs Ennis said her son's life "tragically ended too soon" and that she was "devastated and heartbroken beyond words" that she will never see him again. She said she now needed "closure" and to let him rest in peace.

In a second statement, the deceased's brother, Lee Ennis, said David was "a great brother", that he missed him dearly and "stresses about how he passed". "I feel depressed at times and find it hard to accept".

DNA profile

The court heard that a small potato peeler-like knife was found wrapped in some bedding adjacent to where Mr Ennis's body was found. Blood on the blade of the knife matched the deceased's DNA profile.

Phelan gave a voluntary cautioned interview to gardai in which she said Mr Ennis told her he would stab her and "the next thing he was on the floor with blood coming out of him".

She told gardai that Mr Ennis had fallen on the floor and that there was a knife in the bedroom.

She described to gardai putting him in the recovery position and trying to help him. She said the deceased was not in his right mind and "was just going to stab them".

Before delivering the sentence on Monday, Mr Justice Burns said that Phelan and Mr Ennis had been in a relationship and that, unfortunately, the pair had significant problems involving long-term substance abuse and that their lives had reflected their drug addictions.

The judge said Phelan and Mr Ennis would sometimes call into witness Martin Higgins' address, who lived at Claddagh Court, where the event took place in the early hours of November 8th, 2022. He said Phelan would do some cleaning and washing for Mr Higgins.

He said Mr Ennis had fallen from a balcony and suffered from a head injury in the days preceding this event. He said Mr Ennis had slapped Mr Higgins when he opened his front door that night and threatened to burst his eye open.

The judge went on to say that Mr Higgins was further assaulted by the deceased when Phelan was present that night.

He said Phelan had also been assaulted by Mr Ennis in the bedroom. When Mr Higgins later went into the bedroom, he found Mr Ennis on the floor having a fit or seizures and that Phelan had been trying to lift the deceased's head, he commented.

Tragically, the judge said, Mr Ennis died from one of the three stab wounds he suffered, but that two of the wounds to the thigh and calf had not contributed to his death.

He pointed out that Phelan had voluntarily gone to the garda station, had indicated to officers that Mr Ennis had threatened to stab her and that the deceased was "not in his right mind" at the time.

The judge said Phelan also told gardai that she had put the knife into Mr Ennis as she was frightened.

He said over the course of her six interviews with detectives, she had indicated she was acting in self-defence. "She stated she thought Mr Ennis had a knife and she had got a knife," he added. The judge said Phelan told officers she had intended to stab Mr Ennis in the left arm.

Passing sentence on Monday, Mr Justice Burns said the offence had been carried out by Phelan on a man she had been in an intimate relationship with. He said the defendant was acting in self-defence in response to an anticipated attack from Mr Ennis.

The judge set the headline sentence at eight years.

In mitigation, Mr Justice Burns noted the defendant's guilty plea, that she had expressed remorse and that she had suffered from drug addiction for many years as well as depression. He commented that Phelan had found it difficult to settle in prison and that she was now close to 51 years of age.

Having considered mitigation, the judge sentenced Phelan to six years imprisonment with the final year suspended for a period of three years on the basis that she remain under the supervision of the probation services for that time and engage with counselling and addiction services.

The sentence was backdated to October 27th, 2023, when she went into custody. The judge extended the court's sympathies to the Ennis family for their loss.
At this turning point for our country, our president seems to be changing sides. Of course he has never in his history opposed Russian dictator Putin. We might consider here lessons from the current book "Alexi Navalny Patriot a Memoir," available at public libraries. Reading his simple, straight-forward text is like having a conversation with an everyman, me or you. He writess about his interesting life, sometimes daily, always with a sense of humor. The reader does not need to know that the late Alexi is probably the greatest Russian hero activist of the modern era, having fought to the death the dictator Putin's devastation of his country.

Alexi was neither saint nor sinner, prince nor pauper, philosopher nor politician. Like us he was a common man who chose to fulfill the duty of a citizen, in fact a branch of government. He stood publically for what was right. This quote from Alexi is an important opportunity for our thoughtful consideration at this difficult time.

"The only thing we should fear is that we will surrender our homeland to be plundered by a gang of liars, thieves, and hypocrites. That we will surrender without a fight, voluntarily, our own future and the future of our children." *





* "Alexi Navalny Patriot a Memoir"; Alexi Navalny; 2024; publisher Alfred A. Knopf; First Edition; pages 421-422.





Rebecca Rolston Raymond

Hixson

* * *

Dear Rebecca from Hixson,

I do not believe that you could be more wrong with your observation of what occurred in White House meeting between President Trump and Ukraine's Zyllenskyy . What I witnessed was a foreign leader who thought he could get in front of the world's press and lecture the President of the US on how to handle a deal he is trying to broker to end war.

The ,"Rude" person was Vlodimir and not Trump or Vance. He never publicly thanked us for the work being done on his behalf or for the 60+million dollars of support provided. I say let's just not give him anymore $$ and see how he does. We call that "tough love" as opposed to your Trump "hate".





Don Howard

Hixson

* * *

In typical Democrat manner, Ms. Raymond spews outright lies and attempts to distract unknowing readers with irrelevant misinformation. She failed to mention Zelensky met with Democrat legislators at 11:30 a.m., just prior to his meeting at the White House. Those Democrats advised him not to sign the agreement to mine rare earth minerals in order to repay a portion of the $390+ billion dollars of assistance previously sent to Ukraine.

During his White House meeting, Zelensky was full aware that Ukraine being involved in an agency business relationship with the United States would cause an immediate end to the war with Russia. Putin is in a stalemate situation and the war has become unpopular with the citizens of Russia who are also frustrated with their deteriorating economy.

Democrats who either directly or indirectly benefited from the previous aid want the conflict to continue.

The White House meeting was ended by President Trump promptly after Zelensky, in his native tongue, referred to Vice President J.D. Vance at a Bitch on an open microphone.

When Zelensky returns to Ukraine and more of their citizens die, I hope they will become aware of his rejection to end conflict.

Make no mistake, Zelensky and the Democrats dont want an end to the conflict.





Michael S. Glenn, Sr.

Soddy Daisy

* * *

Ms. Raymond,



Thank you for your letter. You were totally correct! It was a total embarrassment for our country. It was an ambush from a rude and arrogant man and his minions. The world is watching and most of it is just as appalled as you and I are.



Vicki Hill

Hixson

* * *

Ms. Raymond described the recent White House meeting correctly and accurately, very much unlike the inaccurate and downright absurd response from the Trump supporters.



It is obvious that Trump and Vance are in support of Putin and in some way are bound to benefit from Putin's invasion of Ukraine.



It is appropriate that Americans should be appalled and outraged at this latest display of stupidity and powerplaying on the part of the Musk-Trump "administration."



Tim McDonald

* * *

The only rude and inept display came from the comedian Zelensky during the Oval Office fiasco that was supposed to be for signing of a mineral deal for both countries. This would have benefited both countries. Americans would be paid back some of our taxpayers money and Ukraine would be able to rebuild their economy and infrastructures.



Zelensky did indeed meet with Democrats prior to the Oval Office meeting and he was encouraged to goad President Trump and it has now been reported that he wasnt going to sign the deal beforehand. Even Marco Rubio has stated there were two previous opportunities to sign the deal, but Zelensky wanted it to be in front of cameras at Washington.



Having watched a televised interview with Ukrainian born Congresswoman Victoria Spartz yesterday (Sunday), she stated that indeed Zelensky called VP Vance a bitch in his Russian language on a hot mic. She also said Zelensky was very corrupt and that Zelensky is not going to stop the war. Zelensky has even stated just after meeting with the UKs Keir Starmer that the war will last a very, very long time.



Zelensky only wants more billions of USA taxpayers money. Since his country has been given $350 billion so far in aid and out of his own mouth he doesnt know what happened to $100 billion dollars. Lets find that Ukrainian prosecutor that Joe Biden bragged about getting fired and see if he can shed some light on the money laundering in Ukraine. We all know that politicians and oligarchs are getting rich off USA taxpayers money.



Democrats have let their TDS get in the way of facts. Just a little research will show what Zelensky has done to Russian speaking Ukrainians in the Donbas region and how they have destroyed churches and more in that area. Im not taking up for Putin either as he is a war criminal and invaded Ukraine only to be a dictator and regain some of the old country just like he did with Crimea under Obama.



President Trump campaigned and has repeatedly said he wants to stop the killings and end the wars both in Ukraine and with the conflict with Israel and the Palestinians in Gaza.



What have the Democrats offered to end this war. Absolutely NOTHING! Democrats have had 3-1/2 years to do something prior to President Trump. Not once has it been reported that I know of that Joe Biden spoke to Putin about ending the war. All Biden could muster was Dont, Dont, Dont like that was going to stop Putin. It is the incompetence and failures of the Biden administration why Trump has inherited the foreign policy disasters from Democrats, and now he, Trump, is going to do something.



I have yet to hear any solutions coming from the Democrats. All they know how to do is belly ache about Trump and his ideas. I am personally glad the public was allowed to see just what Zelensky is and his stance on continuing the war.



Zelensky disrespected President Trump, Vice President Vance, those present in his cabinet and the entire American nation with his arrogance, smirking, eye rolling and interruptions during the conversation. Plus, he dresses just a notch above Fetterman. No Respect!



Thank goodness we dont have the Harris/Walz knuckleheads serving up Obamas 4th term. WWIII would be right around the corner and we taxpayers would still be giving billions away.



Arch Tinker

* * *

AS usual the liberal Dem come out like squawking geese, as President Trump tried to end the ongoing war in Ukraine their president tried to dictate conditions to our president, I am sure that he was briefed by the outgoing administration on how to approach President Trump, but unlike Past President Biden, this President does not lay down for anyone. There is a new sheriff in town and his name is Trump!



Rick Genter
Hotel at King and Market initially had 76 rooms Thomas Johnson in restored Ellis Hotel lobby Thomas Johnson spent many long hours fixing up dilapidated old hotel This is the only one of the beautiful curved exterior windows that survived intact the long exposure to the elements Ornate plaster work by Thomas Johnson matched original pattern The 100 double-hung windows had to be replaced Thomas Johnson in the upper section Cast iron stairs survived Thomas Johnson acquired several of the interesting brick buildings across from his restored Ellis Hotel Previous Next

Local architect Thomas Johnson doesn't just draw up plans to save historic buildings. He jumps right in with his hands-on skills to recreate what was once an historic gem.

He pretty much single-handedly saved the old Ellis Hotel that had stood for decades without a roof at the end of King Street at South Market.

Mr. Johnson currently is joining in a campaign to save one of the buildings designed by famed Chattanooga architect R.H. Hunt. He said he was dismayed to learn that First Presbyterian Church may tear down the adjacent Medical Arts Building.

He said, just like in his incredible effort to save the Ellis Hotel, "I don't feel that someone has a right to tear down a work of art. This is why I like to go to Europe. They have buildings that are 1,000 years old. We tear them down here after they are 50."

Of the stout concrete buildings that Hunt designed, he said, "You can't afford to build those anymore." He noted that the Medical Arts Building is also unique in that it was designed by Hunt to serve physicians and dentists.

Mr. Johnson, who once was a partner in a successor to the Hunt firm, said all the Hunt creations were masterpieces that need to be preserved. He said, "Hunt was an amazing architect who drew up plans for many of Chattanooga's iconic buildings."

He added, "Hunt worked at a furious pace in the early 1900s through the 1920s to build many of our greatest buildings." Others of his masterful designs - especially churches - were erected in cities throughout the South.

A native of Charlotte, N.C., Mr. Johnson said his father was with South Central Bell and the family made several moves - ending up in Birmingham. There a playground companion in the second grade asked him the inevitable Alabama question - who are you for - Alabama or Auburn?"

He chose Auburn and began studying architecture there. He also met his wife, Emma Marie Goidel, who is from Cullman, Ala. Their children are Hannah, Aaron and Sophie.

Also at Auburn, he became friends with Chattanooga architect Andy Smith, who asked him to join him in a design partnership.

Mr. Johnson noted that R.H. Hunt worked with architect W.H. Sears. He said Sears was later associated with Percy Shepherd, who led in the Shepherd Hills development. Earl Smith, father of Andy Smith, at one time joined in the firm of Shepherd and Smith.

Mr. Johnson said he gained a direct business tie back to R.H. Hunt when the firm of Smith (Andy) and Johnson (Thomas) was formed.

He noted that his first project in Chattanooga was a refurbishing of the historic James Building, which was designed by Hunt.

Mr. Johnson was well aware that the triangular Ellis Hotel was a Hunt creation when he got involved in its salvation. He said, "(Mayor) Gene Roberts wanted to tear it down and had a contract drawn up with E.L. Pate for $67,000. Then Cornerstones (preservation group) got involved and put a roof on it. Still, time was running out when I agreed to buy it for $265,000."

He put some of his own home equity in it and managed to borrow $100,000 from a bank as well, then went to work with the havoc that the elements had wreaked. A main column in the lobby had sunk well into the floor, and he had to jack this up for starters.

Much of the intricate terra cotta work at the top of the columns was missing, so he set to work to build molds in a workshop in an old building he bought across South Market Street. The exact reproduction of the egg and dart crown molding was a long and laborious process, but it brought back one important element of the building as Hunt had designed it.

In his woodshop, the "self taught" craftsman created many matching boards to fill in the many missing wooden pieces - for another step back to the original.

The old hotel building has 100 windows - lined up for the tiny original hotel rooms, and he replaced every one of the double hung windows that are 7'x4'4".

Only one of the original arched windows remained in place - that at the very tip of the building sheltered from the sweeping winds that ruined the other arched windows. Mr. Johnson was able to duplicate those interesting ornate windows.

The ornate drug store type mosaic flooring on the ground floor was replicated as well.

For the upstairs floors, Mr. Johnson chose marble - even though he had 21,000 square feet to cover. For his huge order, he found a supplier in Istanbul, Turkey. He said, "The supplier sent over a representative. Then they sent two shipping containers by water before loading the tiles on a flatbed truck. Then they were lifted up into the upper portion of the hotel by crane."

Several cast iron staircases are among the original, unspoiled pieces still on display at the old Ellis Hotel.

The original two-story lobby was put into use as part of the upscale St. John's Restaurant, which only recently moved to the former Mountain City Club.

The upper two floors were converted to 14 apartments, one of which was occupied by the Johnsons until the Moxy Hotel across King Street blocked Mrs. Johnson's cherished view of the sunrise.

For the door locks Mr. Johnson was able to find enough old-fashioned units that had been taken out of the Jefferson County Courthouse in Alabama during a remodeling.

He had closed the purchase in October 1998 and had the lower section ready for use by September of 2000. Then he went to work on the upstairs that was largely missing.

The building, that was erected in 1915, features 32,000 square feet of space.

Mr. Johnson notes that because it is a concrete building and because of the ample windows, "I haven't had to turn the heat on all winter in the old hotel lobby."

Mr. Johnson reckons that the old Ellis Hotel that the city wanted to tear down and others were loath to tackle is today worth between $8 millon and $10 million.

The architect also wound up owning many of the interesting brick buildings across Market Street, starting with the Porkers Building in 1989. He said the upper stories contain small rooms used as boarding houses for those passing through on the railroad. Each room had a coal fireplace. Once, he said, a card fluttered out an old fireplace that had the railroad schedule and also said: Rooms .50; Beds .25, Meals .25.

The oldest of those quaint buildings is 1908. He said these buildings, as well as the Ellis Hotel, featured rooms with 11-12-foot ceilings in order to keep them cooler and allow the heat to rise to the ceiling.

Mr. Johnson fixed up an old building across from the Choo Choo that was initially occupied by the Hot Chocolatier and the Chattanooga Whiskey Company.

He set up an historic district along the section of South Market near his property goving over to Cowart Street. Buildings in that district are eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.



Mr. Johnson renovated the old Park Place School into condos, including an over-sized unit at the school's former auditorium, and he renovated the Louise Terrace Apartments on Walnut Street for Provident.

He was hired by Bruz Clark of the Lyndhurst Foundation for an historic preservation project at the former Chancellor McConnell house on E. Fifth Street. Lyndhurst maintains its offices there.

Mr. Johnson was involved in the redesign of the former American Lava building at the corner of Cherokee Boulevard and Manufacturers Road, and he set up an office for his business on the third floor. At the time he was focusing on solar installations.

He was active in design work in early phases of the Tennessee Riverpark.

Along the way, he has been a prime, but under the radar, agent in preserving much of the city's rich heritage.
The Coolidge National Medal of Honor Heritage Center announces the opening of the Captain Larry L. Taylor exhibit on Saturday, March 29 at 2 W. Aquarium Way, Suite 104 in Chattanooga.Events will include a private Bricks of Honor dedication ceremony at 11 a.m., with a series of various speakers, and a public ribbon cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. The ribbon cutting event is open to the public, but requires a general admission ticket or an annual membership. Purchase tickets here Preview the exhibit here
LaunchTN has selected Stract Studio as one of seven startups to take part in its first-ever SBIR/STTR Cohort at SXSW in Austin, Tx. The event will take place from March 7-9 at The Capital Factory House, where Stract Studio will represent Chattanooga as the citys sole selection for this opportunity.Officials said, "LaunchTN is committed to fostering innovation by providing capital, connections and commercialization support to entrepreneurs across the state. The organizations participation in SXSW aligns with its mission to propel Tennessee startups onto a national stage."Capital Factory, known as the epicenter of entrepreneurship in Texas, is hosting this event during SXSW.This gathering will bring together key players from government, investors, corporations, academia and startups, fostering an environment where entrepreneurs can flourish. According to Capital Factory, 'this is where innovation thrives, connections spark, and big ideas take flight.'"SXSW is internationally renowned for its conference and festivals celebrating the convergence of technology, film, music and culture. For startups like Stract Studio, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to network, showcase groundbreaking ideas and engage with top decision-makers in their industry."Marsha Roberts, CEO of Stract Studio, said, LaunchTN is giving us such an incredible opportunity to meet some of the most influential people from across America. Many departments of the DoD will be there looking for fresh ideas, and were full of them. Im truly thrilled to be going.Officials said, "Stract Studio, headquartered in Chattanoogas Business Development Center on the North Shore, provides affordable access to product manufacturing in the plastics space within the U.S. The company specializes in helping inventors and entrepreneurs transform ideas from concept sketches to working prototypes, and eventually, short-run manufacturing for test marketing. Stract often serves as a bridge to full-scale injection molding with Tennessee-based partners like Polymer Components in Benton."Additionally, Stract Studio offers design and engineering services, 3D scanning, reverse engineering and has developed advanced methods to replicate complex parts with intricate compound curves. This expertise recently played a critical role for Mars, when the production of Twix bars was halted due to a nearly extinct, uniquely shaped part that no manufacturer had been able to duplicateuntil Stract stepped in and successfully replicated the piece, saving Twix production."Tennessee currently ranks as the fifth-best state for entrepreneurs, according to a recent study. However, LaunchTN envisions an even greater future, striving to make Tennessee the most startup-friendly state in the nation. With forward-thinking startups like Stract Studio leading the way, that vision is well within reach."
With plans already underway for the 100th anniversary of the State of Tennessee vs. John T. Scopes (Monkey Trial) in Dayton in Rhea County in July 2025 the recent discovery of a newspaper article in the former stand alone edition of the Chattanooga Free Press is informative. The competition with the local version of the New York Times provided information in an editorial 1975 writing Monkey Trial 50 Years Old!

It started as a quiet debate in Robinson's drugstore and ended in a carnival of sidewalk sermons and sideshows, capped by a withering verbal duel between the silver-tongued William Jennings Bryan and caustic Clarence Darrow.

The issue was the creation of man-whether he evolved from the ape or was a work of the Lord-and the forum was the famed "Scopes Monkey trial that got under way in the this southeastern Tennessee town just 50 years ago Thursday.

Bryan, a deep-dyed fundamentalist and three-time presidential candidate, espoused the Biblical version and claimed belief in all of The Book Genesis, from the theory of serpent to the ark. The atheist Darrow, a truculent Chicago lawyer surrounded by a bevy of scientists, argued Charles Darwin's theory of evolution.

The trial, which some say began as a prank to put the town on the map, ballooned and soon was known as the "World's Most Famous Court Trial."

More than 40,000 people converged on Dayton, along with every fire and brimstone preacher, huckster and souvenir seller for miles around.

Trainers exhibited mangy chimpanzees for a nickel while the curious sipped "monkey soda" (cola drinks) and bought hastily-sewn cloth monkeys.

Townspeople opened up their homes to reporters and outhouses were converted into darkrooms for photographers. The sweltering summer heat prompted the judge to order the case heard outside under the shade trees where spectators found themselves obliged to sit on hard wooden bleachers.

The trial was the brain child of some Daytonians who were sitting around Robinson's drugstore one lazy evening, discussing what then-Gov. Austin Peay had termed "a damn fool bill."

The new statute passed by the 1925 Tennessee Legislature made it "unlawful for any teacher in any school supported in whole or part by the state to teach any theory that denies the story of the Divine Creation of man as taught in the Bible.'

The law was finally repealed in 1967, only to be replaced in 1973 by a new provision requiring that all high school biology textbooks include the Genesis version in discussion of man's origins.

John Thomas Scopes, a young science teacher, agreed with the drugstore instigators that textbook he used was in violation of the new law. He agreed to challenge the statute on grounds of free speech.

The trial began July 10 and ended July 21 where Scopes was found guilty and fined $100. The ruling later was overturned on appeal.

Millions of words have been written about the famous event that is an eternal part of the history of the little village of 1500-1900 citizens (figures vary) thirty miles toward Knoxville from Chattanooga.

The revelation that an alleged crowd of 40,000 saturated the small town obviously created a circus atmosphere similar to the packed crowds that formerly attended the week-long Hamilton County Fair at Warner Park between the railroad tracks, McCallie Avenue, Holtzclaw Avenue, and East 3rd Street by those old enough to remember the history of the local event.

(Time moves forward but a local negative thinker proudly explained that the Gig City can boast that we have two sets of monkeys, one at Warner Park, and another group at ? -- reader can finish the sentence.)

----

If you have additional information about one of Mr. Summers' articles or have suggestions or ideas about a future Chattanooga area historical piece, please contact him at jsummers@summersfirm.com)
The current home of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga broke ground on an 81,000-square-foot expansion to Fletcher Hall on Monday.Located at the corner of McCallie Avenue and Douglas Street, the four-story addition will complement the existing building by connecting all four stories, expanding on the north side of the building facing away from McCallie Avenue.This is an exciting moment for the Gary W. Rollins College of Business and our campus, UTC Interim Chancellor Robert Dooley said.This project has been years in the making, and without the support of the UT System, Gov. Bill Lee, our state legislators and Gary and Kathleen Rollins, this expansion would still just be an aspiration.This isnt just a building project. This extension of our facility will allow us to graduate more career-ready students to support our regional workforce, to serve as a hub for Chattanooga and regional engagement, and to equip our students to build fulfilling careers and lives.The groundbreaking was attended by faculty, staff, students, alums and numerous dignitariesincluding UT System President Randy Boyd; Tennessee Senator Bo Watson, senior member of the Hamilton County Legislative Delegation and chairman of the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee and the Senate Rules Committee; Rep. Greg Vital; Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly; Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp; and representatives from the offices of Governor Bill Lee and U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn.Officials said, "With substantial support from the State of Tennessee, which allocated $66.4 million in the 2024-2025 state budget for this project, this expansion will allow the Rollins College of Business to increase enrollment and programs to drive workforce development; create innovative classrooms and learning spaces; enhance student retention, graduation and placement opportunities; and facilitate community engagement and outreach."The University of Tennessee System exists to serve the people of Tennessee and our role has never been more vital, Interim Chancellor Boyd said. As the largest producer of the states workforce, the expansion of the Gary W. Rollins College of Business helps us meet the critical labor gaps our economy is facing and meet our ambitious goal of enrolling 71,000 students14,800 of those here at UTCacross our campuses by 2030. A special thank you to Governor Bill Lee, our state legislature and Gary and Kathleen Rollins for recognizing UTCs pivotal role in fostering economic growth and workforce advancement.Senator Watson, a 1983 UTC graduate with a bachelors degree in biology, spoke about his longstanding connection to the University.Years ago, (my family) tried to track back how far wed go, and its really back to 1907. Weve had a Watson or somebody like a Watson who has either attended or graduated from either (University of Chattanooga) or UTC; theres about 25 of us, he said. So my connection is really deepand for me this is really a special moment.Senator Watson highlighted the projects importance to both UTC and the broader community.UTC is positioned to be the workforce engine for Southeast Tennessee, creating economic and career opportunities for men and women across the region while simultaneously attracting business and industrial investment from old and new businesses as we witnessed today, he said.He also reflected on the role of state leadership in securing funding for the expansion, noting that two years ago, the University of Tennessee System recognized the importance of this project when it ranked the UTC Rollins College of Business as the number one capital project for the entire UT system.I, along with my colleague, Rep. Patsy Hazlewood, convinced the governor and other members of the House and Senate Finance committees that this capital project was important enough that it became the only education capital project that was funded in that state budget, Senator Watson said. Now thats pretty cool, but it tells each of you how important this project is to the future of UTC.In addition to state support, Rollins (67) and his wife, Kathleen, donated $30 million to the expansion project. They previously made a $40 million gift in 2018 to name the College of Business and create the Rollins Scholars program.Mr. Rollins, who talked about his deep ties to Chattanooga and his journey from college student to a successful business career, moved to Atlanta after his graduationbut kept tabs on the growth of the city and UTC.Ive been very impressed with the progress this city has made and the progress this college has made. Its been remarkable, he said.Mr. Rollins noted that his experiences at the University played a role in the decision he and his wife made to invest in his alma mater, saying, I just saw from the start that this was something I wanted Kathleen and I involved in.Kathleen and I are delighted weve been able to serve the city of Chattanooga and UTC. This has been a blessing as far as were concerned, and weve been able to serve the school, the faculty, the alumni and the city of Chattanooga. We feel very fortunate to be part of UTC and their future. This has been a very rewarding experience for us. Were proud of our involvement at UTC and were proud of the Gary W. Rollins School of Business.Officials said, "With nearly 2,300 majors spanning 10 undergraduate programs, four graduate degree programs and seven minors, the Rollins College of Business graduates more than 550 business students annually, most of which stay in the region. As UTC projects that number to continue to grow, enrollment at the Rollins College of Business has grown by 21 percent over the past decade. Majors in accounting, finance, management and marketing are among the largest at UTC, and all are identified as high-demand growth areas. More than 85 percent of business students have an internship with a local business or nonprofit while they are at UTC to give them real-world experience as well as classroom instruction."Construction on the expansion is anticipated to be complete by 2028.To learn more about the project, visit give.utc.edu/RCOBExpansion.
The resolution of conventional microscopes is limited to around 200 nm, as the physicist Ernst Abbe described in the 19th century. However, interesting processes take place on a length scale below this limit, particularly in biological cells. STED microscopy overcomes this limit and achieves a resolution up to ten times better than conventional methods.

STED microscopy uses small fluorescent particles - fluorophores - in the sample, which glow (fluoresce) with the aid of an excitation laser. A second laser beam with a ring-shaped cross-section can deactivate the fluorescence in a ring-shaped area so that only a small central spot (less than 200 nm) remains illuminated. Scanning this beam combination across the sample produces a high-resolution image.

The main limitation of conventional STED microscopy has been the bleaching of fluorophores during prolonged illumination. This is particularly problematic when observing long-term processes that require repeated scanning. Researchers led by Xiaomin Liu at the MPI for Polymer Research, in collaboration with Akimitsu Narita and Ryota Kabe from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, have solved this problem by using nanoscale nanographene particles. With nanographenes, the process of fluorescence fading can be reversed directly in the sample. For this purpose, the nanographene is illuminated with the ring-shaped beam: This illumination restores the nanographene's ability to fluoresce, so to speak.

This new method, which was presented in the renowned journal Nature Communications, opens up new possibilities for investigating previously unobservable processes using super-resolution microscopy. The ability to reactivate nanographenes with a high number of photons makes it ideal for long-term microscopy techniques and potentially expands its applications in biology and materials science.
In a challenging market environment, BASF Groups EBITDA before special items (income from operations before depreciation, amortization and special items) increased in the full year 2024 to 7.9 billion. We performed well thanks to the strong performance of our core businesses, which increased their EBITDA before special items by 18 percent compared with 2023, said Dr. Markus Kamieth, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of BASF SE, when presenting the financial figures for 2024 together with Chief Financial Officer Dr. Dirk Elvermann. Overall, there was a 2 percent rise in EBITDA before special items of the BASF Group. In the core businesses, EBITDA before special items grew considerably, mainly because of higher volumes. This was partly offset by earnings declines in the standalone businesses. In the Agricultural Solutions segment, EBITDA before special items declined considerably, mainly as a result of developments in the glufosinate-ammonium business. The steep drop in precious metal prices and lower sales volumes in the Catalysts division were the main reasons for the slight earnings decline in Surface Technologies. The EBITDA margin before special items of BASF Group reached 12.0 percent, compared with 11.1 percent in the previous year. Excluding the revenues from precious and base metals, the EBITDA margin before special items of BASF Group rose from 12.6 percent in 2023 to 13.1 percent in 2024.

Financial figures for 2024 In the 2024 business year, sales stood at 65.3 billion, compared with 68.9 billion in the previous year. Considerable volume increases in the core businesses, coupled with slight volume growth in Agricultural Solutions, more than compensated for the decrease in sales volumes in Surface Technologies, which was due to the weak momentum in the automotive industry. The overall decline in sales, however, was mainly due to competition-driven price decreases in all segments. A particularly pronounced decline was seen in precious metal prices in the Surface Technologies segment. Currency effects further dampened sales performance.

EBITDA amounted to 6.7 billion, compared with 7.2 billion in the prior-year period. EBIT came in at 2.0 billion, down on the prior-year figure by 206 million. Depreciation and amortization stood at 4.6 billion (previous year: 4.9 billion). This included impairments in the amount of 702 million, which mainly related to the battery materials business in the Surface Technologies segment. In the previous year, EBIT included impairments totaling around 1.1 billion.

Net income came in at 1.3 billion, compared with 225 million in 2023. Net income from shareholdings increased by 798 million to 598 million. This was mainly due to the improved earnings of non-integral companies accounted for using the equity method. This was particularly due to a disposal gain of 390 million related to the sale of Wintershall Dea assets to Harbour Energy.

BASF Groups cash flows in 2024 In the 2024 business year, cash flows from operating activities were 6.9 billion, down by 1.2 billion on the prior-year figure. The decline was mainly caused by 1.4 billion less cash released from net working capital.

Cash flows from investing activities totaled minus 5.1 billion in the 2024 business year, after minus 5.0 billion in 2023. Payments for intangible assets and property, plant and equipment increased by 803 million to 6.2 billion and were mainly incurred in connection with the construction of the new Verbund site in South China. The investment is progressing on time and in budget, said Elvermann: Overall, we remained 300 million below our original forecast of 6.5 billion.

Cash flows from financing activities amounted to minus 1.5 billion, compared with minus 2.9 billion in 2023. The repayment and addition of financial and similar liabilities was reduced and their net change resulted in an overall improvement in cash flows from financing activities.

Free cash flow, which remains after deducting payments made for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets from cash flows from operating activities, amounted to 748 million, compared with 2.7 billion in 2023.

Proposed dividend of 2.25 per share As part of its new strategy, BASF continues to offer its shareholders an attractive dividend yield. In the medium term, the company is committed to keeping the overall distribution to shareholders at least at prior-year levels through a combination of dividends and share buybacks. BASF has set itself the target of distributing at least 12 billion to shareholders from 2025 to 2028. Specifically, the company strives to pay out a dividend of at least 2.25 per share annually or distribute around 2 billion per year to BASF shareholders. The proposed dividend for the 2024 business year is consequently 2.25 per share.

Status of cost savings programs We are well on track to achieve the targeted 2.1 billion annual cost savings by the end of 2026, said Elvermann, commenting on the progress in implementing the cost savings programs. By the end of 2024, we already achieved a total annual cost reduction run rate of around 1 billion, of which around 100 million is related to the Ludwigshafen Cost Improvement Program announced in February 2024. BASF incurred cumulative one-time costs of approximately 900 million related to the implementation of the cost savings programs by year-end 2024. This amount is about half of the total one-time costs BASF anticipates by the end of 2026. By then, the company aims to have concluded all programs and will benefit from the full amount of savings on an annual basis.

BASF Groups outlook for 2025 In 2025, the BASF Groups EBITDA before special items is expected to increase to between 8.0 billion and 8.4 billion (2024: 7.9 billion). All segments, with the exception of Chemicals, are likely to contribute to the increase in earnings. In particular, earnings in the Petrochemicals division will be impacted by rising fixed costs in connection with the startup of the new Verbund site in China and scheduled turnarounds.

The company forecasts the BASF Groups free cash flow to be between 0.4 billion and 0.8 billion (2024: 0.7 billion). This is based on expected cash flows from operating activities of between 5.6 billion and 6.0 billion, minus expected payments made for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets in the amount of 5.2 billion.
Vice President J.D. Vance speaks during the 20th annual National Catholic Prayer Breakfast at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Feb. 28, 2025, in Washington, DC. | Screenshot: YouTube/ EWTN

Vice President J.D. Vance stated at a gathering of Catholics on Friday that the U.S. "foreign misadventures" have sometimes led to "the eradication of historical Christian communities" worldwide.

Speaking at the 20th annual National Catholic Prayer Breakfast held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Vance remarked, We have turned a new page in Washington, D.C. and we are going to take advantage of the opportunity that God has given us.

He noted that President Trump, although not a Catholic himself, has been an incredibly good president for Catholics in the United States of America.

Vance praised Trump's domestic policies on religious liberty and abortion, contrasting them with those of the Biden administration. He asserted that Trump's foreign policy aligns most closely with Christian social teaching and with the Catholic faith.

Proclaiming that more than any president of my lifetime, President Trump has pursued a path of peace, Vance emphasized the importance of recognizing how foreign policy can impact the ability of people around the world to practice their faith.

Highlighting that Christians are often the most persecuted religious group globally, he stated, The Trump administration promises you whether it's here at home with our own citizens or all over the world, we will be the biggest defenders of religious liberty and the rights of conscience.

He added that "It's not enough simply to protect the rights of conscience, to pursue funding opportunities and grant-making opportunities to protect the rights of people to engage in religious conscience."

Vance noted that the biggest impediments to religious liberty have not come through malice from the United States government but have actually come through carelessness.

He lamented that in the United States of America sometimes, it is our foreign misadventures that lead to the eradication of historical Christian communities all over the world, expressing that such foreign misadventures are what he is most ashamed about.

Discussing Trump's call for peace in regions like Russia, Ukraine, and the Middle East, Vance said, we, of course, have to recognize that as a policy-oriented towards saving lives and carrying out one of Christ's most important commandments. He emphasized the need to treat this policy as an effort to protect the religious liberty of Christians, noting that over the past 40 years, it has often been historical Christian communities that bear the brunt of failed U.S. foreign policy.

Vance pledged, We will always listen to people of faith and people of conscience in the United States of America, promising to do so even and especially maybe when you disagree with us.

Identifying himself as the first convert to Catholicism to serve as vice president, he also described himself as a baby Catholic. He disclosed, I learned the hard way as a Catholic that grace is very much a process that God works in us over time. Calling himself as imperfect a Christian as any person in this room, he affirmed, God is transforming me every single day.
Believers from a household church in Vietnam are holding worship services in the bushes | Screenshot: YouTube/ The Voice of the Martyrs Canada

Thai authorities in Bangkok have arrested more than 60 Montagnard Christian migrants facing persecution in Vietnam and deported 40 Uighur ethnic minorities back to China.

According to Radio Free Asia, which cites the refugee aid organization Boat People SOS, the group consists of 68 Montagnard Christians, including men, women, children, and at least one pregnant woman, all of whom were apprehended on Sunday during a memorial gathering near the Thai capital that involved prayer and worship.

Reports indicate that most of the detainees remain in custody for allegedly staying in the country without legal documentation and could face deportation. Police have transferred the detainees to immigration authorities, and those who cannot pay court-imposed fines of $120 or bail will remain in jail.

Officials stated that legal entry requirements had not been met, leading to charges of illegal entry and residence. Some of the detained individuals are registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and at least 43 possess refugee cards issued in Thailand.

Police mentioned that individuals without the funds to cover fines would face an eight-day jail term, followed by transfer to an immigration detention facility in Suan Plu, which is known for overcrowded cells where men, women, and children may remain for months or even years.

Although authorities have shown no immediate plans to return them to Vietnam, concerns regarding potential deportation in the future persist. A portion of the group attends Christian services in Thailand while seeking asylum.

According to the U.S.-based persecution watchdog International Christian Concern, there are more than 4,000 Vietnamese refugees in Thailand, most of whom fled due to persecution and harassment related to their Christian or political beliefs, often waiting several years for a resolution from the UNHCR or other agencies.

For decades, Vietnamese dissidents and religious minorities have sought refuge in Thailand; however, the country has not ratified the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. As a result, individuals seeking asylum lack formal protection under international refugee laws, and those with refugee cards accused of violating entry and residence rules may also face prolonged detention.

On Thursday, around 40 men from the persecuted Uighur ethnic minority group in China were deported by Thai authorities after being in the country for over a decade.

Citing local sources and a member of the Thai Parliament, the watchdog group Christian Solidarity Worldwide reported that witnesses saw vehicles with covered windows transporting detainees from the Bangkok detention center.

Chinese state media CCTV confirmed that 40 Chinese illegal immigrants had been repatriated, showing a photo that included individuals of Uighur ethnicity. The men were part of a group of about 300 Uighurs detained in March 2014 after crossing the border into Thailand in an attempt to escape persecution in China.

Reports from U.S. officials and human rights groups suggest that China has imprisoned more than 1 million people, including Uighurs and other predominantly Muslim ethnic groups, in concentration camps in Xinjiang. Advocacy groups claim that prisoners are being indoctrinated to become secular citizens who will never oppose the ruling Communist Party.

While most of the 300 arrested in Thailand were sent to Turkey, CSW reports that 109 were deported to China. A source informed the watchdog that five Uighurs are currently held in Klong Prem Central Prison while three others remain in the Bangkok detention center.
J.D. Greear, the pastor of The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina. | Photo Credit: Facebook/ J.D. Greear

The Summit Church in North Carolina has filed a lawsuit against the Chatham County Board of Commissioners, claiming religious discrimination after its request to rezone nearly 100 acres for a Chapel Hill campus was denied.

The multi-campus church is led by former Southern Baptist Convention President J.D. Greear.

According to the Christian Post, The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina seeks to enforce the churchs civil rights as enshrined in the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution and codified in the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.

According to the lawsuit, the Summit Church acquired the option to purchase six parcels of land totaling 97 acres in Chatham County through an agreement last year.

The church met with the Chatham County Appearance Commission on April 24, 2024, and held a community meeting on April 29, 2024, where attendees were excited to see a project proposed that will benefit the community and limit environmental impacts [and] density.

About a month later, the church submitted its rezoning application, which sought to rezone three of the parcels, approximately 50 acres of land on the eastern side of the highway, to Conditional District-Office & Institutional. The church also submitted a separate application to restore the remaining three parcels to their pre-2022 zoning, R-1.

Despite the initial support for the churchs rezoning application at a public hearing on August 19, 2024, then-Vice Chair Karen Howard of the Board of Commissioners described Summit Church as a poor fit for what we are envisioning and antithetical to real rural character preservation. Commissioners also expressed concerns about the potential loss of tax revenue if the church were to become the new owners of the land.

While Planning Board member Tony Mayer noted that there werent any clear reasons to object to the churchs rezoning application, the lawsuit alleges that Board Vice Chair Mary Roodkowsky argued that Summit Church is not like the other churches we have in the County and was better suited in a more urban environment.

The Planning Board ultimately did not vote on a recommendation for the churchs application during that September meeting, opting instead to continue the matter to October 2024.

The County Commissioners, however, voted unanimously to reject Summit Churchs rezoning application, despite the churchs request being consistent with Plan Chatham and the Future Use Map, and despite the Appearance Commissions recognition of Summit Churchs extraordinary efforts to protect the rural character of the area, as stated in the lawsuit.

The Summit Churchs lawsuit requests the court to grant injunctive relief to approve its rezoning request and site plan. It also seeks a Declaratory Judgment that the Countys denial violates RLUIPA, along with an award for costs, attorneys fees, damages, and any further relief deemed appropriate.
Home News Elon Musk's transgender-identifying son blasts Christian Post for 'misgendering'

SpaceX CEO Elon Musk's transgender-identifying son Xavier, who now goes by the name Vivian Jenna Wilson, recently criticized The Christian Post for publishing an op-ed that referred to him with masculine pronouns.

"The Christian Post just published an article calling me a Trans-Identified Son who's just a tragic little gay boy. Love thy neighbor right," Wilson wrote Friday on Threads. "I am unamused."

The Feb. 26 op-ed, titled "The tragic story of Elon Musk and his trans-identified son," was written by contributor Joseph Sciambra, who argued that Musk's assertion his son was "born gay" is unsubstantiated and likely a means of deflecting from his own neglectful parenting.

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Responding to a tweet from the Gays Against Groomers X account last July, Musk claimed that Wilson, who was born in 2004 to Musk's first wife, Justine, was "born gay and slightly autistic, two attributes that contribute to gender dysphoria."

"I knew that from when he was about 4 years old and he would pick out clothes for me to wear like a jacket and tell me it was 'fabulous!,' as well as love of musicals & theatre," Musk added. "But he was not a girl."

Wilson took to Threads after his father's claim, which he called "entirely fake." He went on to allege that Musk "doesn't know what I was like as a child because he quite simply wasnt there, and in the little time that he was I was relentlessly harassed for my femininity and queerness."

During an interview with psychologist Jordan Peterson last July, Musk claimed his son Xavier is effectively "dead," and that he was "tricked" into authorizing his chemical transition amid the threat from medical professionals that his son might otherwise commit suicide.

JUST IN: Elon Musk says his son is "dead" thanks to the woke mind virus after he was put on puberty blockers, says he vowed to "destroy the woke mind virus after that."



????????



"I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys... This was before I had pic.twitter.com/wfWztIziTs  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 22, 2024

"It happened to one of my older boys, where I was essentially tricked into signing documents for one of my older boys, Xavier. This is before I had any understanding of what was going on," said Musk, who reportedly has 14 children with four different women.

"I agree with you that people that have been promoting this should go to prison," Musk said. "I was tricked into doing this. It wasn't explained to me that puberty blockers are actually just sterilization drugs."

"And so I lost my son, essentially," he continued. "So, you know, they call it 'deadnaming' for a reason, alright? So the reason it's called 'deadnaming' is because your son is dead. So my son, Xavier, is dead, killed by the woke mind virus."

Musk added that he "vowed to destroy the woke mind virus after that."

Sciambra, who repented of the homosexual lifestyle himself, expressed skepticism that Musk's son was led astray solely by "the woke mind virus" and "communism," as his father claims.

"But how is a 4-year-old boy being influenced by the woke mind virus and communism? He isn't. Though he is deeply affected by the absence of his father. Musk blames everyone except himself. But I've seen it hundreds of times, some people would rather believe that their son was 'born gay,' or even born in the wrong body, rather than admit to themselves that they were neglectful or abusive parents," he wrote.

He went on to describe Musk and his son, writing that he sees them as "a confused and hurt father, who refuses to accept any responsibility, and an angry and injured son."

In response to Wilson's reaction to his op-ed, Sciambra tweeted, "I wrote the article. It's never my intention to hurt anyone. Especially those who've been deceived by the LGBT cult. Because I was one of them. But I believe that no one is born gay. And no one is born in the wrong body. My prayers are with you all."

I wrote the article. It's never my intention to hurt anyone. Especially those who've been deceived by the LGBT cult. Because I was one of them. But I believe that no one is born gay. And no one is born in the wrong body. My prayers are with you all. ??https://t.co/r3iBH9Pt4o  Joseph Sciambra ? (@JosephSciambra) March 3, 2025

Musk has been drawing backlash in recent weeks from users on X who take issue with the number of children he has sired with multiple women to whom he is not married, as noted by USA Today.
Home News Idaho passes $50M school choice program to give families 'abundant schooling options'

One of the few Republican-led states that had yet to implement a private school choice program passed a plan to offer up to $50 million in tax credits to families for private school or homeschool educational expenses.

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed House Bill 93 on Thursday, which will allow private schoolers and home-schoolers to claim a refundable tax credit worth $5,000. The program will offer $7,500 to special needs students.

According to the bill's text, the total amount of tax credits authorized shall not exceed $50 million each tax year. The state tax commission, which is charged with administering the program, will create a waiting list "demonstrating who would be eligible on a first-come, first-served basis if the annual maximum limit  increased."

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After clearing the Republican-led House with a 42-28 vote, the bill passed in the Republican-led Senate last month on a 20-15 vote before it made its way to the governor's desk.

Little said in a statement that the bill's passage means that the state now "boasts even more abundant schooling options for Idaho students and families."

"Combined with the continuation of Idaho's astoundingly successful LAUNCH program, Idaho has become the first state to offer education freedom from kindergarten through career," Little said.

The LAUNCH program provides students who meet certain requirements a one-time opportunity to have 80% of tuition and fees covered for an eligible institution.

"Idaho's commitment to education is growing every year. I am proud that we have put close to $17 BILLION into our K-12 public school system since I took office and increased public school funding by close to 60 percent in just a few years," Little continued. "Our investments in education initiatives have increased 80 percent overall since my first year in office. In addition, Idaho ranks first in the nation for our return on investment in public schools."

Idaho was one of the few Republican-led states that had yet to enact a school choice program. In 2022, Arizona passed what is considered to be one of the most robust school choice policies in the country during former Republican Gov. Doug Ducey's term.

"Idaho can have it all  strong public schools AND education freedom. Providing high-quality education for Idaho students will always be our top priority," the Republican governor stated.

In the days leading up to the bill's signing, the legislation attracted significant attention from the public. One reason is that President Donald Trump wrote in a Feb. 16 Truth Social post that the bill has his "complete and total support," saying it "must pass." Another factor that contributed to the media buzz is the response from some Idaho residents.

Critics of school choice programs argue that directing state funds to pay for private school tuition will take money away from public schools. Meanwhile, supporters say such programs enable parents to choose the best education for their children and helps them afford alternatives when local public school systems are not meeting their expectations.

The Idaho House Revenue and Taxation Committee received more than 1,000 emails from constituents before a public hearing on the bill on Feb. 5. Ninety-four percent of the messages opposed the bill and asked the committee to reject it, while 6% expressed support for it, Idaho Education News reported.

Many behind the emails obtained by the news outlet identified themselves as teachers and administrators and others claimed to be parents, grandparents or "concerned taxpayers."

"Instead of using public funds to subsidize private schools, I urge the Legislature to invest in strengthening our public education system," one of the emails stated. "Ensuring equitable funding for teacher salaries, classroom resources, and support services will have a far greater impact on improving outcomes for all Idaho students."

Idaho Education Association President Layne McInelly declared in a Thursday statement that "Bringing vouchers to Idaho is a huge mistake," warning that House Bill 93 is just the "beginning."

"Our members will fight every step of the way to limit and roll back the damage caused by this legislation," McInelly wrote.

In an op-ed published by Idaho Education News, Rubi Dagostino, a homeschool mother from Nampa, called passage of House Bill 93 "an opportunity" for a family like hers with a 17-year-old son struggling with autism and a daughter who needs "constant care."

"He also has severe environmental and food allergies that made attending a traditional public school nearly impossible," she said. "He was constantly getting sick, and I was frequently called to pick him up early. Despite being in special education, he was not making progress because his health and challenges werent being adequately addressed. On top of that, my son endured bullying, which only made his struggles more unbearable."

Dagostino claimed that opposition to the bill is "primarily led by district superintendents and teachers union leaders" while some parents who are "struggling and working to support our families" see the legislation as a "lifeline." She stated that homeschooling "places an enormous financial strain on families" due to the costs of materials and resources. She beleives House Bill 93 will "provide the support necessary."

"I have heard opponents of this bill claim that families already have enough options. But my story proves that claim is simply not true," she continued. "Many families  especially those with children who have special needs  are forced to make impossible sacrifices just to ensure their children receive a suitable education. School choice should not be a privilege reserved for those who can afford it; it should be a right available to every family who needs it."

State Superintendent Debbie Critchfield, a Republican, issued a statement Thursday in support of the bill, saying that critics must "remember that public schools are and will continue to be the schools of choice for the vast majority of Idaho parents and that we need to ensure the highest level of support for all parent choices, including those in public education."
Home News Iowa eliminates all references to 'gender identity' from state law

Iowa has passed a bill to eliminate all references to "gender identity" from state law while defining sex as biologically determined at birth, a move supporers say is designed to protect "the rights of women and girls."

Iowa's Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds signed Senate File 418 into law on Friday. Approved by the Republican-controlled Iowa Senate in a 33-15 vote Thursday, the Republican-controlled Iowa House of Representatives passed the measure in a 60-36 vote on the same day.

Support for the legislation fell mostly along party lines, with Republicans supporting it and Democrats opposing it. However, five House Republicans joined all Democrats in opposing the measure.

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Reynolds says the bill "safeguards the rights of women and girls," insisting in a statement that it is necessary because the state's "Civil Rights Code blurred the biological line between the sexes" and "forced Iowa taxpayers to pay for gender reassignment surgeries."

The legislation establishes rules regarding "the construction of statutes" and begins by defining "Sex" as "the state of being either male or female as observed or clinically verified at birth."

The law identifies a "female" as "an individual who has, had, will have through the course of normal development, or would have but for a developmental anomaly, genetic anomaly, or accident, a reproductive system that at some point produces ova."

A "male" is defined as "an individual who has, had, will have through the course of normal development, or would have but for a developmental anomaly, genetic anomaly, or accident, a reproductive system that at some point produces sperm."

The policy lists "woman," "girl" and "mother" as terms that correspond to females and "man," "boy" and "father" as words that refer to males. The term "gender" will be "considered a synonym for sex and shall not be considered a synonym or shorthand expression for gender identity, experienced gender, gender expression, or gender role."

The law notes "the term 'equal' does not mean 'same' or 'identical'" and that "separate accommodations are not inherently unequal."

Reynolds said acknowledging "the obvious differences between men and women" is "necessary to secure genuine equal protection for women and girls."

She highlighted the need to "have men and women's bathrooms, but not men and women's conference rooms; girls, and boys' sports, but not girls' math and boys' math; separate men and women's prisons, but not different laws for men and women." Reynolds insists, "It is about the biological differences, and that is all."

Another provision of the measure removes a section of state law allowing individuals to change the sex on their birth certificate.

The legislation removes all references to "gender identity" from state law and replaces the phrase with "gender theory" when amending existing laws prohibiting school officials from teaching students about matters related to sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through sixth grade.

The legislation is opposed by progressive pro-LGBT organizations, such as the ACLU of Iowa, which decried the legislation as "barbaric."

In a statement following the bill's passage but before Reynolds signed it, ACLU of Iowa Director Mark Stringer described Thursday as "a difficult day for all Iowans who rely on the rule of law to protect their basic human rights."

"For nearly two decades, Iowa law has protected people from discrimination based on their gender identity," he added. "This has been a lifeline for people in areas as broad as housing, workplace fairness, credit, public accommodations, and education."

Stringer lamented that the measure would make Iowa "the first state in the country to repeal protections for LGBTQ people from its state civil rights law."

"Iowa has been a trailblazer in advancing civil and basic human rights  from banning slavery all the way to ensuring marriage equality," Stringer said. "In many instances, our laws have helped advance the causes of freedom and equality in our nation."

Stringer described the prospect of Iowa becoming the first state to "specifically single out transgender people for removal of their legal rights as enshrined in state antidiscrimination law" as "unacceptable."

Reynolds addressed what she characterized as "misinformation" about the bill, maintaining that "it simply brings Iowa in line with the federal Civil Rights Code, as well as most states."

"We all agree that every Iowan, without exception, deserves respect and dignity. We are all children of God, and no law changes that," Reynolds proclaimed.

Passage of the Iowa bill comes weeks after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced it would eliminate "gender ideology" from its policies, declaring that there are two sexes.

In a Feb. 19 statement, HHS stated that it is "restoring the concept of biological truth in federal government." Under the Republican Trump administration, HHS will define "sex" as an "immutable biological classification as either male or female." Under the Democratic Obama and Biden administrations, the term "sex" was broadened to include concepts like gender identity and sexual orientation.

The HHS Office on Women's Health launched a webpage to advance guidance on sex-based definitions and provide other resources "on efforts to protect women and children."

"There are only two sexes, female and male, because there are only two types of gametes," the website reads. "An individual human is either female or male based on whether the person is of the sex characterized by a reproductive system with the biological function of producing eggs (ova) or sperm."

"The sex of a human, female or male, is determined genetically at conception (fertilization), and is observable before birth," it continues. "Having the biological function to produce eggs or sperm does not require that eggs or sperm are ever produced. Some females or males may not or may no longer produce eggs or sperm due to factors such as age, congenital disorders or other developmental conditions, injury, or medical conditions that cause infertility."

On the first day of his second term in the Oval Office, President Donald Trump signed an executive order known as "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government." The order instructed HHS to issue "clear guidance expanding on the sex-based definitions" within 30 days.
Home News Middle school teacher facing charges of possessing 1,000 images, videos of child porn, including rape of toddler

A man who most recently worked as a math teacher at a public middle school in Manhattan has been arrested and charged with two counts of possession of child pornography after authorities caught him with at least 1,000 images or videos of child pornography, including a male toddler and pre-pubescent boys being raped and exploited in other ways by adult men.

The teacher, identified as 41-year-old Ross Lanvin, most recently taught math at MS 256 Lafayette Academy on Manhattans Upper East Side, sources told the New York Post. He was employed by the New York City Department of Education from about 2006 through 2013, and again in 2016, according to a complaint filed against him by the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

As alleged, Ross Lanvin, who had close contact with students as a teacher at a public school in Manhattan, possessed hundreds of images and videos of child pornography. Together with our partners at the NYPD and Office of the Special Commissioner of Investigations for the NYC School District, we will continue to work to root out those who possess child pornography, especially when those individuals work in positions that give them access to childrensome of the most vulnerable members of our community, Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said in a statement.

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Our investigation into Lanvin is ongoing, and we encourage anyone with information to contact Wendy Olsen-Clancy, the Victim Witness Coordinator at the United States Attorneys Office of the Southern District of New York.

Lanvin has been in possession of child pornography from at least September 2021 through December 2024 which he kept hidden in a Google Drive account under an alias, according to the complaint against him.

The files include images and videos of nude children, ranging from approximately 3- to 4-year-old children, on the one hand, to pre-pubescent children, on the other hand. The vast majority of the files appear to be child pornography, Caitlin Steele, a task force officer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations wrote.

Lanvins cache of child pornography was first flagged by Google staff who terminated access to his account on Dec. 20, 2024, after they suspected he was stockpiling child pornography. Google then alerted the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and shared approximately 150 images and 90 videos with apparent or unconfirmed child pornography or otherwise suspected sexually explicit material.

Based on my review of records Google produced pursuant to a judicially authorized search warrant (the Google Warrant), I know that the vast majority, if not all, of the images and videos in the Subject Google Accounts Google Drive are images and videos of nude children, including child pornography, noted Steele, who shared graphic descriptions of what she saw. I know based on my review of the records produced pursuant to the Google Warrant that the Subject Google Account contained at least approximately 1,000 images or videos of child pornography.

Despite using a burner account to stash his child pornography, Steele said she was able to track and identify Lanvin through phone records and cookie data that links various emails to the teacher, including his work email.

He was employed by the New York City Department of Education (the DOE) from in or about 2006 through in or about 2013 and again beginning in or about 2016. The NCMEC referrals indicate that, on or about May 10, 2024, the Subject Google Account was accessed from an IP address that Google reported as associated with the DOE, Steele explained.

The Subject Google Account has been used to search for lesson plans and other teaching resources, as well as for pornography using search terms such as young or teen boys. For instance, on or about September 16, 2021, the day that the child pornography was uploaded to the Subject Google Accounts Google Drive, the Subject Google Account was used to search for videos involving gay teen boys and also accessed the website academyforteachers.org, the investigator added.

Steele said she participated in a search of Lanvins apartment on Feb. 13 and found at least four videos on a tablet belonging to Lanvin showing boys as young as 6 being sexually abused.

After waving his Miranda rights and signing a written Miranda consent form, Lanvin voluntarily spoke to law enforcement. During this interview, he confirmed that the 8499 Number and one of the "rlanvin" emails were his. Lanvin also admitted that the Subject Google Account was his and that he had access to it as recently as approximately two months ago, at which point he was blocked from accessing it, Steele wrote. Finally, Lanvin acknowledged that he had previously accessed child pornography on electronic platforms.
Home News Rhett and Link give update 5 years after deconstructing, say they're not scared of Hell: 'It doesn't make sense'

Five years after publicly deconstructing their faith, YouTube stars Rhett and Link have opened up about their religious views and revealed theyre not scared of going to Hell, dismissing it as a human construct rather than a biblical one and a mechanism to keep people in Christianity.

During a two-hour Feb. 17 podcast titled Link Actually Prayed on their Ear Biscuits YouTube channel, Rhett McLaughlin and Link Neal, better known as Rhett & Link, gave their annual update on their religious views after departing from Christianity in early 2020.

I'm in a good place, but it's like holding steady and still at arm's length, Link said. I like to keep it simple, you know. And I like to keep it to like, love platitudes.

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Rhett added that he believes people are spiritual beings, but added: I don't know the nature of reality beyond what I can see, touch, feel and experience. I'm open to there being things beyond my understanding. I'm open to there being a God. I'm open to there being [...] a traditional, spiritual, metaphysical experience that is available to me and to everyone else. But I don't know that that's the case. And I think that there can be really meaningful, active, spiritual practices that everyone can experience that don't have anything to do with having foundational specific beliefs.

When they announced their departure from Christianity in February 2020 on their podcast, Rhett described himself as a hopeful agnostic, while Link expressed that he no longer identified as an Evangelical Christian but still had some spiritual beliefs.

The duo, who have over 30 million subscribers across their multiple YouTube channels, were previously outspoken Christians, former missionaries and Campus Crusade (now Cru) staff members.

In their latest podcast, Rhett said his moral compass today is the same as it was when he was a Christian, dismissing the idea that someones moral compass is linked to any particular religious philosophy.

I think your moral compass is something that is inherent to the human experience. I think most moral decisions are made by moral intuition, he said.

The YouTuber claimed hes essentially the same person after deconstructing with the same heart and same attitude toward people, but adheres to a secular humanist moral philosophy rather than biblical principles.

Even when I was a Christian, I was really uncomfortable with what I had to believe about gay people [because] it wasnt consistent with my moral compass. As an Evangelical Christian, he said, My moral philosophy was in slight conflict with my moral compass.

Later in the podcast, the duo reflected on whether or not they still pray despite their views. Link said that recently, he was super sad about a situation and said a prayer on a bit of a whim, but my heart was in it.

Though he later saw a positive trajectory occurring, he said he didnt believe prayer was the cause, adding: I do think it helped immediately in terms of being an exercise in empathy.

Gods going to do what Gods going to do, he said, explaining that he always struggled with the concepts of prayer and Gods sovereignty.

Rhett told Link it was beautiful he had prayed, saying its a powerful way of connecting  with the recipient of the need. Praying for someone is a great way to focus and to love someone.

It doesnt make sense that God is waiting for me to get to this part of my checklist, so Hell then be like, Alright, now I can do this, he said. It didnt seem consistent  with what I understood about God.

Today, Rhett said he feels like he still has a vibrant spiritual life, but spends that time in reflection or meditation instead of prayer and communion with God.

The duo also answered questions from callers, including one who said the hardest part of his own deconstruction journey was letting go of the idea of Heaven and asked if the YouTubers had the same struggles.

Rhett said although there are times when he starts thinking about the fact that one day hell cease to exist altogether, hes not bothered by it.

First of all, I may, I may go on, he said. I dont know. There may be an afterlife. It'd be cool. I want to see other planets. I've made this clear. Maybe that's part of it, but if it's not the case for me, personally, it doesn't bother me that much. But I will say that religion has the advantage in the talking about death and comforting people, which, ding, ding, ding, should be a hint for maybe one of the reasons we came up with it.

This is a really comforting thing to believe, a really comforting thing to be able to say to someone. In fact, it's so comforting that there are times when I think that it's just worth believing it. But I can't believe it, he added.

Another caller asked Rhett and Link if they ever worry about being wrong and going to Hell as a result. In response, Link responded that he doesnt buy it because Hell just doesnt make sense.

Rhett said, I can honestly say that I do not ever fear Hell. I did for a while, especially in the midst of deconstruction, but no, this is not an issue for me now.

The reason, Rhett explained, is that he didnt fear dying and coming back as a grasshopper when I was a Christian because I didnt believe in reincarnation.

Rhett described Hell as a human construct, not a biblical one, noting its a really, really effective mechanism to keep people in the religion. Get them in by promising eternal life in Heaven; keep them in by saying, if you leave youre going to go to the bad place.

Another caller asked Rhett if he still labels himself a hopeful agnostic, and he said he still does.

When I say that Im agnostic, Im saying, I dont know. And Im also saying Im OK with that, he said. Im open to knowing, but I find it a little bit interesting that weve been around for a long time and theres been billions of us for hundreds of thousands of years, and nobodys figured it out yet. Thats why Im not looking, honestly, ... Im not trying to talk you out of it. Im talking about me. I dont believe [Christianity], and Im just as happy. Life is beautiful, life is mysterious, and I am hopeful."

Rhett said he wants to stay on this fence  of not knowing and will probably die on that fence.

I kind of hope theres something beyond what I can experience with my physical senses, he said. The thing that makes the most sense to me is that the whole universe is God, and God gave birth to itself, and split itself apart, and its goal is to bring itself back together. And thats why every time we connect with one another or we connect with nature, we are bringing God back together to itself.
Home News Christian Concern launches Lent prayer campaign against suicide law

The U.K.-based group Christian Concern has begun a Lent prayer campaign urging supporters to devote daily prayer time toward defeating a proposed assisted suicide law. The group is calling for one minute of prayer each day starting on Wednesday to oppose legislation that could endanger vulnerable individuals.

Members of the bill committee recently rejected amendments aimed at tightening safeguards in the proposed law, notes Christian Concern in the announcement, saying that people with disabilities or serious illnesses might face pressure to die prematurely if assisted suicide becomes legal.

A close parliamentary vote could halt the bills passage if a few supporters abstain or change their minds, according to the group, which plans to circulate short daily prayer points by email and social media throughout Lent, encouraging participants to stay engaged.

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How might God respond if his church rises up to pray against assisted suicide? asks the campaign. Elected representatives are watching public opinion, and the group hopes persistent prayer will strengthen calls to reconsider the bill.

Weekly livestreams will begin Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. GMT on Christian Concerns YouTube channel. The group says it will offer updates on the bills progress and invite collective prayer sessions, adding that Lent offers a structured timeframe for concentrated spiritual activity.

Its not just about the United Kingdom.

Canadas Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) hotline and a BBC One documentary titled Better Off Dead? starts with a recorded instruction: If you would like to speak with an advisor to access the service, or get more information, please press 1, according to The Telegraph.

Critics argue that such frameworks risk becoming routine, potentially expanding eligibility to individuals with non-terminal or mental health concerns. The films presenter, disability rights advocate Liz Carr, opposes assisted suicide and has raised concerns about its impact on those living with long-term conditions.

The House of Commons passed the bill last November by a vote of 330 votes in favor to 275 against.

The bill allows for medical assistance in dying for any person aged 18 or older who has fewer than six months to live. The request for assisted suicide also must be approved by a high court judge and two doctors.

The proposal was divisive among the government, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer supported it while Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Health Secretary Wes Streeting voted against it.

In 2022, the Church of England General Synod passed a motion by a vote of 289 in favor, 25 against and 33 abstentions to denounce assisted suicide and call on the government to consider alternative approaches, like improve palliative care.
Home News The origins and use of the word 'church'

The word "church" in common language has many meanings depending on the context. This is the story ...

Origin of the English word 'church'

The English word "church" itself is Anglo-Saxon in origin. The word first appeared in Anglo-Saxon translations of the Gospels as "chyrcan" and then in the Wycliffe Bible as "chirche" and the word developed into the modern English word church. It is Germanic and might come from Gothic. It is related to "Kirche" in German, 'Kerk' in Dutch, 'Kirk' in Scots and similar words in Scandinavian languages. It seems to be etymologically derived from the Greek 'kyriakos oikos' which means 'house of the Lord,' so it might well always have had the nuance of a building.

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Origin of the biblical term

The use of the word church in the Bible was to translate the Greek word . This word can be transliterated into the Roman alphabet as ekklesia, and it came into Latin as ecclesia. The Latin word ecclesia gives us the English word ecclesiastical, but also the word for church in some other languages such as eglise in French, iglesia in Spanish, and eglwys in Welsh.

The Greek word ekklesia was not invented by Christians. The word was originally a secular word used for a gathering of people, such as a crowd, or an assembly or group called for a particular purpose. In Greek society an ekklesia was often the town council composed of local Greek freemen, where slaves, non-Greeks and women were not allowed to join.

The word ekklesia was used by Greek-speaking Jews for their gatherings. It was used about a hundred times in the Septuagint (often abbreviated as LXX), which was the Greek translation of the Hebrew scriptures from the third century BC. The word ekklesia was used to translate the Hebrew  (qahal), which is usually translated into English as assembly or gathering, first in Deuteronomy 4:10.

The person who spoke or preached to the ekklesia was called the ekklesiastes, which became the title in Greek of one of the books of the Septuagint, which is a book we still call Ecclesiastes as a result. The "ekklesia of the LORD" was the assembly of Israel. Later the word synagogue came to be used as well, and then instead.

Christian context

Later, the early Christians, who used Greek as their lingua franca and were steeped in the Septuagint, naturally continued to use the word ekklesia for their gatherings, and so it appears in their writings. St. Matthew used the word three times, once in Matthew 16:18, and twice in Matthew 18:17. In these places, William Tyndale in his translation of the New Testament in 1526, preferred to use the word congregation. The Geneva Bible changed that to "Church," and this was also used in the King James Version, which established the current use of the word.

Even in the New Testament the Greek word ekklesia is used in secular, Jewish and Christian contexts. In Acts 7:38, ekklesia refers to Israel and is most often translated "congregation." When the word is used in the secular context in Acts 19:32 to refer to a local crowd, it is translated in most English Bible translations as assembly. The rest of the time when the word is used for a Chistian group, it is translated in most English Bibles as church.

St. Paul uses the term over 60 times. It might be that in Galatians 3:28, when St. Paul wrote, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (NKJV), he was contrasting the membership criteria of a Greek ekklesia with a Christian church. St. James seems to have preferred the word synagogue in James 2:2, where it is usually translated as assembly or meeting, although Darby kept the word synagogue in his translation.

In the epistles we see the word ekklesia, referring to a Christian community in a certain place. So, in Colossians 4:15 we read of the church which met in a house, then in 1 Corinthians 12:28 St. Paul outlines different roles that people can have in the church. In Ephesians 5:25, St. Paul writes about Christ who loves the Church, and here he means all Christians. So, in the New Testament context, the church had the idea of either a local Christian community in a particular place, or the collective community of all Christians everywhere. Over time the word church stretched and extended its semantic range to have other associated meanings not found in the Bible.

Church services

Over the centuries the word church also came to refer to the acts of religious service, which a church community held. So, when people talk of "going to church" or "attending church," they mean attending the act of religious service.

Church buildings

At first these Christian churches met in people's houses, barns or in caves. Only in later centuries as Christianity was established and free from persecution, did these church communities build their own places of worship, which later came to be known as churches themselves. Some church congregations meet in schools, village halls or other places which are not church buildings dedicated for Christian use. Conversely, sometimes a church building might not even have a church congregation anymore. There is a British organization called the Friends of Friendless Churches, which sounds like an oxymoron, but it exists to look after redundant places of worship, and plays a role in preserving ecclesiastical heritage.

Church universal

In theology "the Church" is the entire body of all Christians regardless of age and denomination, sometimes called "the Church universal." This might refer to all Christians living in the world today, or might be broader as the entire body of Christians from all time whether living and dead. Sometimes people distinguish between the Church Militant, being all Christians alive on Earth now, and the Church Triumphant, being those who have "gone to glory."

It was only after the Reformation when other Christian church organizations arose that the word Church was also applied to a denomination, such as the Church of England, the Church of Scotland, and later others like the Elim Pentecostal Church and the United Reformed Church. Often when the press and media refer to discussions and changes in "the Church," it is actually shorthand for the Anglican Church or the Catholic Church.

Spelling convention

In writing the convention is usually that when church is spelled with a lowercase letter c, it refers to a local church congregation where "a church" is a single group of Christians in one place. However, when Church is spelled with an capital letter C it refers to a larger collective group, such as the Church of England, or the Church universal of all believers. Usually it is clear in context, but not always. Moreover, the distinction of a lowercase c or uppercase C is a convention in written English, but it is lost when the word is heard or spoken.

How the word developed

The word church has become a prefix, and we can use the words churchgoer, churchyard, churchwarden, churchman and churchmanship. The word church has also become a verb, and you can be churched or even de-churched. There is even a ceremony called churching, where women are blessed after childbirth. The Book of Common Prayer includes a service for the Churching of Women.

Churchmanship

Some people talk of churchmanship to refer to the style of governance and management used by their style of church. People talk of "High Church" to mean churches with an emphasis on ceremony, liturgy and tradition, sometimes in the Anglican context also called Anglo-Catholic.

In contrast "Low Church" refers to churches whose structure and service are simpler, less formal and a greater emphasis on Scripture, often more Evangelical. High Church to Low Church is a spectrum and the terms are typically used by Anglicans, and sometimes Catholics and occasionally in other traditions. It is also a matter of perspective and depends on what you are comparing to. The term "Broad Church" refers to the idea of being supportive of different styles of churchmanship within the same denomination. The phrase "broad church" is also used in British English for any group, organization, or political party, such as the Conservative Party, which includes and tolerates a wide set of opinions, by analogy to the breadth of views in the Church of England.

In many parts of Wales and rural England, the words "church" and "chapel" have come to be used as labels for types of churchmanship. A person who is described as "church" or who attends "church" is usually Anglican, while a person who is "chapel" or attends "chapel" is a non-conformist, typically Baptist, Methodist, Independent or Congregationalist. In England and Wales, just the use of the phrase "I am going to chapel" is recognized as an indicator that the person is not from the Established Church. In Scotland, people might use the word "Kirk" instead of church.

Alternatives to the word 'church'

The word church has sometimes been used beyond the Christian context by way of analogy. The Church of Scientology has no connections with Christianity at all, but the use of the word Church gives it a sound of religious respectability.

Due to misunderstandings and confusion, some Christian traditions have deliberately tried to avoid the word church. For some people the use of the word church as a building and as a denomination were unhelpful and unbiblical, and this encouraged the use of alternative phraseology.

The early Quakers called themselves Friends who met as "societies," their buildings were called "meeting houses," and their organization is called the Society of Friends. They referred to traditional places of worship not as churches, but as steeplehouses.

John Wesley and the early Methodists met in "societies," and their buildings were called "chapels," and they referred to their organization as "the Connexion." John Nelson Darby preferred to use the word "assembly" in his translation of the Bible, which is why Brethren talk about an assembly, typically meeting in a Gospel Hall or Mission Hall. Likewise, one Pentecostal grouping is called the Assemblies of God. Christadelphians refer to their meetings as ecclesias.

Some Fresh Expressions of church might prefer to refer to themselves as a house church, or prefer not to use the word at all, and call themselves a congregation, a gathering, a fellowship or a worshiping community, if that is more helpful in their context.

Some purists lament the use of the word church beyond its biblical use. However, the nature of language is that languages change, words gain different meanings, and the meaning of any word is dependent upon its context. One solution in English is to simply keep the word church and add in a clarifying word to disambiguate the meaning. So, we can refer to a church congregation, a church service, a church building, a church denomination and the Church universal.

This article was originally published at Christian Today
Oval Office Rebuke With Trump And Volodymyr Zelensky, Healthcare Transparency Order, Christianitys Decline In U.S. Slows

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 08:35 08:35

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Top headlines for Monday, March 3, 2025

In this episode, Vice President JD Vance addresses a gathering of Catholics, discussing the impact of foreign misadventures on historic Christian communities worldwide. Meanwhile, former President Trump reopens the debate on the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, calling for the recovery of $7 billion in military equipment left behind. On the home front, we explore the state of Christianity in the U.S., noting a recent stabilization after years of decline in the number of adults identifying as Christians.
Home Opinion Misery is happiness and other Bible head-scratchers

If youve been a Christian for a long time, I bet youve lost the shock factor over some of the things the Bible presents and says. But for those who read it for the first time, Scripture can come off sounding pretty iffy.

Starting at the top with God Himself, in his book, The God Delusion, Dawkins says he sees God as described in the Bible as: Arguably the most unpleasant character in all fiction: jealous and proud of it; a petty, unjust, unforgiving control-freak; a vindictive, bloodthirsty ethnic cleanser; a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential, megalomaniacal, sadomasochistic, capriciously malevolent bully.

The creators of evilbible.com agree saying: This website is designed to spread the vicious truth about the Bible. For far too long priests and preachers have completely ignored the vicious criminal acts that the Bible promotes. The so-called God of the Bible makes Osama Bin Laden look like a Boy Scout.

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Naturally, I believe both these fellas are off base. See this article I wrote for CARM a while back refuting their charges.

Outside of these acerbic critics, I think what most find objectionable in Scripture are the demands it makes upon us and the seemingly contrary way it asks us to live. Professor Virginia Stem-Owens found this out when she asked her college students whod never read Jesus Sermon on the Mount what they thought of it.

I did not like the Sermon on the Mount. The things asked for in the sermon are absurd. These are the most extreme un-human statements Ive ever heard. This stuff is extremely strict and allows for almost no fun in life.

This type of reaction to Gods Word is probably why Paul used the Greek word morias, which means nonsense (translated as foolishness), to describe the worlds response to the Gospel of God. It is to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness (1 Cor. 1:23), resulting in people thinking We are fools for Christs sake (1 Cor 4:10).

Heck, even Jesus own family (including His mom who had gotten an angelic visitation telling her who He was), went to go get Him once saying, He has lost His senses (Mark 3:21).

The Christian, of course, thinks the exact opposite. Paul contrasted how the world saw him and how he viewed himself as regarded as deceivers and yet true; as unknown yet well-known, as dying yet behold, we live; as punished yet not put to death, as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things (2 Cor. 6:810).

If Paul was wrong and self-deluded in thinking these things, he was 100% correct when he wrote, we are of all men most to be pitied (1 Cor. 15:19). Ill add, as are the rest of us who follow in his footsteps.

And lets be honest, sometimes its hard to accept what the Bible commands, especially when it seems so opposite to how we naturally think. James can say all day long, Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials (James 1:2), but how many of us actually welcome trouble with smiles and open arms?

It sure seems like God can sometimes be a God of opposites. And He is, for good reason.

The massive previousness of God

When it comes to the oppositeness of God, a good example is what some have called the misery is happiness section of the Bible where Jesus tells us: Blessed are you who are poor  Blessed are you who hunger now ... Blessed are you who weep now  Blessed are you when men hate you, and ostracize you, and insult you, and scorn your name as evil (Luke 6:2022).

Who wants to be poor, hungry, crying, and the odd man out? No one in their right mind on the street would say yes.

Of course, Christians know that Jesus was referring to our spiritual condition  were blessed because we know were spiritually poor, hungry, and weep over our lost nature. Only when we get miserable over our sin can we become truly good. Such paradoxes are why A. W. Tozer wrote, The truth of the cross is revealed in its contradictions.

Eugene Peterson spoke about why this is when he pointed out what he calls the massive previousness of God. Without God coming first in what we do or think, the Christian life looks nuts. But with Him it makes sense.

Take what James says about counting all trials as joy. Hes telling us that real joy isn't the absence of trouble, it is the presence of God. As Tim Keller said, the ultimate triumph of evil and difficulties occurs when they push you away from God and make you bitter, angry and a worse person, but the ultimate defeat of evil and trials happens when they drive you to God and make you a better person.

In his essay, That Incredible Christian, Tozer describes the sometimes head-scratching way we live this way:

The Christian believes that in Christ he has died, yet he is more alive than before and he fully expects to live forever. He walks on earth while seated in Heaven and though born on earth He finds that after his conversion he is not at home here  He is strongest when he is weakest and weakest when he is strong  In heaviness he manages to rejoice and keeps his heart glad even in sorrow  He has most after he has given most away and has least when he possesses most. He may be and often is highest when he feels lowest and most sinless when he is most conscious of sin. He is wisest when he knows that he knows not and knows least when he has acquired the greatest amount of knowledge  He fears God but is not afraid of Him. In Gods presence he feels overwhelmed and undone, yet there is nowhere he would rather be than in that presence. He knows that he has been cleansed from his sin, yet he is painfully conscious that in his flesh dwells no good thing.

Yep, thats us.

The Bible sums it up by saying, For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Cor.1:18). In the end, from Gods perspective if the cross and the Gospel sound crazy to the world, then I think the saying of a philosopher whose name I cant recall is pretty spot-on:

It is no measure of good health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society.
Home Opinion When the obituary page contains your photo

Do you ever browse the obituaries in your local newspaper. Just imagine if your obituary was published next week. Would your immortal soul go to Heaven, or Hell? Are you truly prepared for Judgment Day?

The Bible declares, Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints (Psalm 116:15). But just how saintly must a person be in order to make it into Heaven? How good is good enough?

Thankfully, the gift of everlasting life in Heaven is just that  a gift from God! While following Christ often involves rejection, adversity and various difficulties, receiving Jesus as your Savior and being forgiven of your sins is easy! The Savior paid in full the agonizing penalty for our sins on the cross so that we could freely receive the eternal benefits of His loving sacrifice.

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If our entrance into Heaven depended upon our saintly behavior, we would never make it into Paradise. Our sins had separated us so far from God that only the sacrificial death of the sinless Messiah could bridge the gap and bring us into an eternal relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Would you like to know for sure that Heaven is your eternal home? If so, then simply choose to stop relying upon your pious behavior in hopes of earning your way into Heaven. Instead, rely completely upon the atonement Jesus completed for you on the cross. You see, believers are forgiven only because of the Savior's perfect sacrifice.

Other religions teach people to DO this or DO that to get into Heaven, whereas followers of Christ rely upon what Jesus has DONE for us on the cross. Faith in Christ alone is the only way to make it into Heaven.

Paul instructed the saints in Ephesus: For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith  and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God  not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Christians perform good works not in order to be saved, but because we have already been saved, redeemed, justified, born again and forgiven. The Bible reveals that Jesus loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood (Revelation 1:5).

One of these days your photo will appear in the obituary section of the newspaper. You do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes (James 4:14).

I need to ask you a critical question: Have you made preparations for your death? The Bible reveals that the only way to be adequately prepared to die and face your Creator is for your sins to be washed away through faith in Jesus Christ. There is no such thing as being "prepared to die" if Christ is left out of the equation.

You see, This world in its present form is passing away (1 Corinthians 7:31). Do you realize what this means? There is nothing to fall back on when the rug gets pulled out from under you. That is, unless you are a member of God's family.

So, how does a person get into God's family? Well, you must be born into it. Jesus told a religious leader named Nicodemus, You must be born again (John 3:7). When addressing the saints in Ephesus, Paul wrote, You are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household (Ephesians 2:19).

Jesus described His relationship with His followers this way: I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me (John 10:10). So, do you know Jesus, or do you merely know about Him? Do you have a relationship with the Savior, or have you chosen to ignore the Lord's love, grace and forgiveness which is only available at the cross?

Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God  children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God (John 1:12-13).

On the day your obituary appears in the paper, your immortal soul will have already entered either Heaven or Hell. Those are the only two destinations in eternity. I sincerely hope you meet the Savior before you take your final breath my friend.

So, where will you spend eternity? Jesus was sacrificed to pay for your sins so that you could know God and live with Him forever in Heaven. Do you want to live in Paradise, or would you prefer to remain outside of God's family forever?

Hell is a horrific prison of eternal torment (see Luke 16:19-31). And yes, you and I deserve to go to Hell because we have broken God's commands and sinned against the Lord's holy and righteous Law. Nevertheless, God loves us dearly.

Multitudes of people assume their physical death is the end of their existence. They are clueless to what awaits them on the other side of the grave. Thankfully, God wants everyone to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). You see, Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God (1 Peter 3:18).

You would be extremely wise to immediately run into the arms of Jesus as you repent of your sins and believe that Christ was sacrificed for your eternal salvation. Don't wait until it's too late! After all, the day your obituary gets published may be sooner than you think.
Home Opinion Will there be peace in Ukraine?

There is certainly an overwhelming desire for peace in Ukraine  especially among Ukrainians. It was their country that was unjustly invaded. Their cities are being bombed. Their soldiers and civilians are paying the ultimate price to defend freedom from tyranny. Their children are traumatized daily by air raid sirens and the horrors of war. Ukrainians long for peace, but they also seek justice and security.

Simply ending the conflict without addressing why it began in the first place  and without ensuring it wont happen again  is not enough.

Consider the Christian understanding of the Gospel and salvation. Repentance is a critical step in our relationship with Jesus Christ. For there to be lasting peace between God and humanity, men and women must humble themselves, confess their sin, and turn from their wicked ways. That is when God responds with His overwhelming grace (2 Chron. 7:14). When Jesus preached the gospel of the Kingdom of God, He said, Repent and believe (Mark 1:15). Repentance means turning away from a current way of being and realigning with Gods plan for flourishing. Western Christians must recognize that some version of this is necessary to end the conflict in Ukraine in a way that holds perpetrators accountable and protects the victims.

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A new narrative has emerged in recent weeks, suggesting that Ukraine provoked Russia into war or could have done something to prevent it. This is simply not true.

In 1991, Ukraine democratically chose independence from the Soviet Union. In 1994, through the Budapest Memorandum, Ukraine surrendered its nuclear arsenal  one of the largest in the world  to promote regional and global peace. However, when Ukrainians continued to reject Russian interference in their government, Russia responded by invading Ukraines Crimean peninsula in 2014 and instigating conflict in the eastern regions. The world stood by and watched Russia annex Crimea  we let it happen. The full-scale invasion in 2022 was shocking, but not surprising. If Russia faced no real consequences in 2014, why wouldnt they attempt to destabilize and seize all of Ukraine?

Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. If we tolerate injustice in one part of the world, it will inevitably manifest in our own lives with devastating consequences. In the past, North America was relatively shielded from global conflicts, protected by two great oceans. But in todays interconnected world, we are more directly impacted than ever before. When war and injustice erupt in Ukraine, Palestine, or Israel, they are closer to us than we might think.

Evangelical Christians are proud defenders of life. Our belief in the sanctity of life rightly fuels our passionate opposition to abortion. But it is not just defenseless fetuses who need protection. We cannot turn away from entire communities devastated by war  especially when that war is waged with blatant disregard for civilian life.

In the fall of 2024, I was in the city of Kharkiv, Ukraine, when a glide bomb struck a residential apartment building. When my team arrived, hundreds of firefighters and first responders were battling the flames and searching for survivors. We were told that moments earlier, people had been seen jumping from the burning building. My mind immediately flashed back to 9/11. I was in high school then, and I will never forget the fires engulfing the Twin Towers, the falling bodies, and the overwhelming loss of life. Ukrainians have been experiencing their own 9/11 over and over again.

Yes, this war must end. It must end as soon as possible  but it must also end justly, in a way that ensures lasting peace.

Psalm 20:7 says, Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. Our brothers and sisters in Ukraine are praying for peace while placing their faith in God. That faith has given them the strength to endure these three years and to serve their nation with courage and humility. War can take many things from us, but it cannot take away the victory that is already ours in Christ Jesus.

This is a critical moment to pray for Ukraine. But prayer alone is not enough  we must also take action. When Nehemiah led the rebuilding of Jerusalems walls, the people worked with a trowel in one hand and a sword in the other. Likewise, we must pair our prayers with meaningful action. With the recent suspension of USAID funding, the work of grassroots organizations like The Renewal Initiative is even more critical. Please continue to stand with the people of Ukraine as they wait for a resolution to this conflict. Even after the war ends, there will be years of rebuilding lives and restoring dignity.

The way we show up now matters. Our response will be part of our witness. As Jesus said, By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another (John 13:35).
Home News A holy moment: Churches offering drive thru ashes for Ash Wednesday

Many churches will mark the beginning of the liturgical season of Lent by holding Ash Wednesday services in which attendees receive a cross made of ashes on their foreheads.

While this ritual is customarily performed during a solemn worship service, some churches bestow the ash cross on people who are just passing through via car or a metro station.

One such congregation is Centreville United Methodist Church of Centreville, Virginia, which has offered ashes to go for busy commuters for the past couple of years.

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The Rev. Matthew G. Smith, lead pastor at Centreville UMC, told The Christian Post that he first performed an ashes to go event at a metro station 10 years ago.

The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many commuters expressing gratitude for the opportunity to begin their day with this meaningful Lenten observance. As a result, we expanded the practice to multiple metro locations, explained Smith.

When I began serving at Centreville UMC, where there is no metro station, we adapted the practice into a drive-thru format to meet people where they are  offering ashes as they start their morning commute.

Along with the imposing of ashes on the forehead, each commuter who comes to the drive-thru ashes event also receives a brief prayer, according to Smith, and a small card with a Scripture-based reflection about the Lenten season.

Our hope is that this experience serves as a holy moment in the midst of a busy day, allowing people to pause, reflect, and embrace the spiritual significance of Ash Wednesday, Smith said.

It is a visible and personal act of faith  one that reminds us of our mortality, our need for grace, and the hope we have in Christ. It is a way of wearing one's faith boldly while humbly relying on God's saving grace.

The Rev. Doug Cushing, senior pastor at The Bridge Presbyterian Church of Leland, North Carolina, told CP that his congregation first held their drive-thru ashes event a bit out of necessity.

During the pandemic, we sensed a deep need in people to reconnect with a church while also a need to be connected with some of the rituals of the church, Cushing added.

The idea of a drive-thru imposition of ashes seemed to fill the need of people to reconnect with God, the Church and the rituals many were missing.

2025 marks the fifth year that Bridge Presbyterian has offered the drive-thru Ash Wednesday event, with Cushing telling CP that he has been surprised by the positive response.

We never envisioned that the drive-thru ash imposition would become so popular and appreciated, he said. We typically have over 200 folks drive through at either our noon hour time slot or our 4:45 to 6 time slot.

We see folks who come back every year. Sometimes, we meet people who begin weeping during our short ritual. Other times, people bring the family and the family pet and make it an adventure.

Cushings church also provides prayer and free Lenten devotional guides to the commuters, as well as more information about his growing congregation.

All we hope for is that we can be a blessing, the tangible touch of God to everyone who participates, he noted. That said, we see people whose lives are touched and who feel they have reconnected with God and God with them.

Marion Phipps, rector at St. Hugh of Lincoln Episcopal Church of Elgin, Illinois, told CP that she was initially skeptical when folks started talking about doing an ashes to go event, noting that it was hard to see why that would be meaningful.

Some of my colleagues were showing up at train stations early in the morning on Ash Wednesday to offer people ashes, Phipps recalled. I talked to one of my best friends from seminary who had done it and he talked about what an amazing experience it was being able to not only offer ashes to folks but also pray with them.

Phipps explained that her church is located at the corner of a busy road and that it seemed that we might attract some people on their way home from work who might like to receive ashes but may not have the time or inclination to seek out a service.

St. Hugh of Lincoln first did a drive thru ashes event in 2020, with volunteers also providing commuters with a pamphlet with more information about the history of Ash Wednesday, as well as an invitation to join them for services.

Additionally, we include information about what our Lenten study program will be that year and an invitation for them to join us for that, said Phipps.

I also ask if there is anything theyd like me to pray for them about. This year, were offering a prayer card with the prayer attributed to St. Francis. Some years, weve given them a Lenten Devotional with the pamphlet.

When asked by CP what she hopes commuters will take away from the drive-thru experience, Phipps responded: My hope for them is the same as it is for my parishioners who attend services. That somehow the invitation to a holy lent will plant a seed that will cause them to further explore their relationship with God, and in that time spent, they will find themselves engaged in a deeper relationship with God.

In the book of James, it says to draw near to God and God will draw near to you. I hope its a seed planted that continues to grow throughout the Lenten season and beyond.
Home News Judge blocks Trump orders banning govt funding of trans surgeries performed on kids

A judge has blocked two executive orders by President Donald Trump that banned the federal funding of trans surgeries and chemical castrations of youth exhibiting confusion about their sex.

United States District Judge Lauren King of the Western District of Washington at Seattle, a Biden appointee, issued an order last Friday granting a preliminary injunction against the orders.

King argued that Trump's executive orders violated the separation of powers by assuming Congress role to appropriate federal funds and set conditions on their use.

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King also argued that the executive orders go against the Fifth Amendments equal protection guarantee, claiming it prohibits the federal government from treating people differently based on sex or transgender status unless the government can establish an exceedingly persuasive justification for doing so and a close means-end fit.

The [c]ourts holding here is not about the policy goals that President Trump seeks to advance; rather, it is about reaffirming the structural integrity of the Constitution by ensuring that executive action respects congressional authority, King wrote.

Washington state Attorney General Nick Brown, who is helping to challenge the executive orders, released a statement last Friday celebrating the preliminary injunction.

The presidents disregard for the Constitution is obvious and intentional, Brown argued. But once again, states and the courts have stepped up to affirm the rule of law and the values that hold us together as a nation.

In January, Trump issued Executive Order 14168, also known as "Defending Women from Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government."

EO 14168 defined the word "sex" as "an individual's immutable biological classification as either male or female," adding that it was "not a synonym for and does not include the concept of 'gender identity.'"

Additionally, EO 14168 told the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to provide the public with a "clear guidance expanding on the sex-based definitions set forth in this order" within 30 days of the order being issued.

Later that month, Trump issued Executive Order 14187, which was titled Protecting Children from Chemical and Surgical Mutilation. Among other things, the measure prohibited the federal funding of trans procedures for individuals aged 19 and younger.

Countless children soon regret that they have been mutilated and begin to grasp the horrifying tragedy that they will never be able to conceive children of their own or nurture their children through breastfeeding, stated EO 14187.

Moreover, these vulnerable youths' medical bills may rise throughout their lifetimes, as they are often trapped with lifelong medical complications, a losing war with their own bodies, and, tragically, sterilization.

Last month, a group of states led by Washington filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over the orders, being joined by a few unnamed physicians who perform such experimental procedures.

King previously granted a temporary restraining order against the executive orders, while another federal judge in Maryland temporarily blocked the executive order in response to a separate lawsuit filed on behalf of families with trans-identified children.
Home News Mike Pence stokes backlash for calling Pope Francis 'Holy Father,' posting anti-Trump op-ed

Former Vice President Mike Pence drew criticism over the weekend for a Friday X post in which he referred to Pope Francis as "the Holy Father," prompting some to accuse him of affirming Roman Catholicism despite being an outspoken Evangelical Protestant.

"One of my greatest honors as Vice President was the hour I spent with Pope Francis at the Vatican in January 2020," Pence tweeted. "[Karen Pence] and I join Catholics around the world Praying for this humble and godly man. God Bless the Holy Father."

Pope Francis remains at Rome's Gemelli Hospital recovering from double pneumonia. According to the Vatican, he remained in stable condition and did not require any mechanical ventilation Sunday, though he suffered two episodes of "acute respiratory failure" on Monday.

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Pence was raised Roman Catholic but later left the Catholic Church to become an Evangelical when he was in college, according to a profile in The New York Times.

One of my greatest honors as Vice President was the hour I spent with Pope Francis at the Vatican in January 2020. @KarenPence and I join Catholics around the world Praying for this humble and godly man. God Bless the Holy Father???? pic.twitter.com/4TNWQi9Ksq  Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) March 1, 2025

"'Holy Father'?? Remember when the evangelical establishment chided us all about not giving the seriousness of Pences Protestant faith due respect," tweeted author and Daily Wire reporter Megan Basham.

John Shelton, who serves as policy director at the nonprofit Americans Advancing Freedom, founded by Pence, defended him in response to Basham.

"'Holy Father' is a standard address for official US communiques to/concerning the pope regardless of denomination (see below for Reagan, Bush, and multiple Protestant secretaries of state)," Shelton wrote. "If this upsets you, you should start a petition to change it or something."

Holy Father is a standard address for official US communiques to/concerning the pope regardless of denomination (see below for Reagan, Bush, and multiple Protestant secretaries of state)



If this upsets you, you should start a petition to change it or something. ??????? pic.twitter.com/7H8e3I7UBK  John Shelton (@jayshelt) March 2, 2025

Basham replied that she believes Protestants such as Pence can respect the diplomatic status of the papal office without affirming Roman Catholic doctrine.

"I don't think a petition is necessary. I think Protestants should simply respect the office by calling him by his appropriate titlePope Franciswithout using terminology that entirely conflicts with Protestant doctrine," she said. "Thus, no, Reagan, Bush, and Pompeo should not have done it eitherunless they consider their government positions more important [than] adhering to the tenets of their faith."

Tom Buck, who serves as senior pastor at First Baptist Church of Lindale, Texas, wrote that Pence could have urged prayer for the pope without affirming his ecclesiastical title.

"Pence is distorting the Gospel in multiple ways! We can pray for the pope without perverting the Gospel," Buck argued. "He isnt humble but is full of pride to call himself the head of the church and usurp that role from Christ. He's not godly because he denies salvation by grace alone through faith alone and actively works to send hundreds of thousands to Hell with him. And he's not a holy father, that title belongs to God alone."

Justin Peters, who heads a worldwide expository preaching and teaching ministry, also criticized Pence for his post.

"I have heard from people in my theological circles that you were truly a Christian. You even attended a church pastored by a friend of mine," he wrote. "To see you affirm Roman Catholicism and say the man who thinks he is Head of the Church and the Vicar (substitute) of Christ on earth is sad. And there is only One Holy Father - the Ancient of Days."

Multiple users quoted Matthew 23:9, which says, "Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven."

Pence's papal tweet came the same day he drew backlash for tweeting an op-ed by the Editorial Board of the Wall Street Journal titled "Putin Wins the Trump-Zelensky Oval Office Spectacle."

Republican strategist Andrew Surabian suggested that Pence would not have joined Trump in standing up to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky like Vice President JD Vance did during their tense Oval Office meeting last week.

"I see that the WSJ Ed Board and Mike Pence are both very upset that Trump-Vance defended America and stood up for peace between Ukraine and Russia. We all know that if Pence were in the room, he would have been on his hands and knees worshiping the ground Zelensky walks on," he wrote.

Donald Trump Jr. wrote simply, "Has there ever been a bigger upgrade in political history than going from Mike Pence to JD Vance?"

Has there ever been a bigger upgrade in political history than going from Mike Pence to JD Vance? https://t.co/FLt3RQ6dh4  Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) March 2, 2025

Pence was the first candidate to drop out of the 2024 Republican primary and declined to endorse Trump when he became the nominee, citing "profound differences."
Home News No further revisions to the Seoul Statement, Lausanne leaders say

No further changes will be made to the Seoul Statement that came out of the Fourth Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization in Seoul, Korea, last year. The Lausanne Movements leadership made the announcement on a conference call with some 200 Congress participants on Wednesday.

The statements unexpected publication on the first day of the event and last-minute edits to sections related to homosexuality triggered controversy among participants who felt they did not have any opportunity to shape the document, which would remain as a historic statement from the Congress.

There were also several groups taking issue with specific sections or emphases of the statement and desiring a wider conversation among all Congress participants to find wording that would be more reflective of the diverse perspectives. With almost 5,400 attendees from 200 countries and territories and another 2,000 online participants, Lausanne 4 was the largest and most diverse event in the movements history.

Toward the end of the Congress, the Lausanne leadership acknowledged the strong reactions in an announcement to all participants. And they laid out a consultation process beyond the event that encouraged participants to provide feedback via an online form raising the possibility that the statement might undergo further revisions.

The Seoul Statement is in its final form

Five months later, Lausanne invited participants for a conference call where they could hear directly from Theology Working Group chairs Ivor Poobalan and Victor Nakah, who [ would discuss] the purpose, development, and key themes of the statement and its implications for mission today.

The call was introduced as a time to listen, reflect, and engage with Poobalan and Nakah." Participants were also given time to "share their thoughts and questions during the session, according to the invitation email titled Seoul Statement in the Spotlight sent on Feb. 18.

It was the second in a series of follow up calls where participants could hear about different topics, such as the Action Hub online platform that was launched post-Congress or the upcoming Younger Leaders Gathering in 2027.

The invitation itself did not mention the feedback process or indicate when or how the statement would be finalized. There was equally no reference to it by any of the speakers during their presentations, which focused largely on how the Theology Working Group was formed and how they drafted the statement involving some 30 theologians from different parts of the world.

It was in response to a question by one of the participants in the chat room asking whether there would be a final document that the Lausanne leadership responded that the statement would not change.

The Seoul Statement is in its final form, Lausanne Chief Communications Officer Michael du Toit wrote in the chat.

He went on to quote from a statement on Lausannes website published two days earlier on Feb. 24 that said: While no further revisions to the Seoul Statement will be made by the Theology Working Group, we see this as the beginning, not the end, of engagement with the theological and missiological issues it raises.

The feedback received by the Theology Working Group to date has been reviewed and is appreciated. The topical gaps that have been identified in these submissions will be used in their exploration of potential areas for future study, elaboration, and expansion. We are committed to maintaining the conversation beyond the Congress. This is an ongoing journey  one that the Theology Working Group is prepared to continue, welcoming a diversity of voices and perspectives as we press forward.

Never the intent to involve Congress participants in crafting the statement

Recognizing that the release of the Seoul Statement sparked many conversations, we want to engage openly and transparently with the global church, says the online article written by du Toit.

While we intended the Seoul Statement to be a resource to engage and inform the Congress, practical challenges in review and translation processes prevented releasing it any earlier. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused, and we appreciate the feedback from those who voiced their concerns, he adds.

Lausannes Congress Program Director David Bennett previously explained the timing of the Statements release pre-event during a press conference in Seoul. He said that Lausanne wanted the document to inform and inspire participants and that it should be read in combination with the earlier released State of the Great Commission report.

Bennett also emphasized at that time that the Seoul Statement stands as part of the larger collection of key documents within the Lausanne Movement, building on the legacy of the Lausanne Covenant, the Manila Manifesto, and the Cape Town Commitment. It is designed not to replace, but to complement these foundational documents, providing fresh insights into contemporary theological and missional challenges.

During the conference call, Bennett elaborated further that unlike with previous Lausanne documents, there never was an intention or process to have the whole Congress discussing the statement.

The intention was to have a document that people could bring into the discussions, and that's why there was no attempt to say, Let's delay the release so that then we can have another round of input from several thousand people. That was not the intent. It was to get a carefully crafted document from the Theology Working Group, which then would be a resource like all the other Lausanne documents to the global Lausanne family.

Theology Working Group saw statements purpose as filling the gaps

The two co-chairs of Lausannes Theology Working Group echoed Bennetts comments about the different purpose of the document as they recounted the process that led to the formation of the group and the considerations behind the Seoul Statement.

The way the Theology Working Group was formed after [Nakah] and I were asked to co-chair was that initially we asked the Lausanne leadership, Michael Oh and others, to give us suggested names because we were new to this work, and we needed their advice, said Poobalan, who has served as principal at Colombo Theological Seminary (CTS) in Sri Lanka since 1998.

And with the list of names given to us, we reached out to a number of theologians around the world and some of them were available, he recounted, adding that this formed the core team that began the work. Over the following months, they discovered other theologians who were definitely fit for the task that was before us, and again some of them were available and co-opted.

As they began to consider the outline of what would become the Congress statement, Poobalan said that one of the guiding ideas of the Lausanne Congress was the book of Nehemiah and the building of the wall, and particularly the idea that Nehemiah and the people in Jerusalem had to focus on the gaps in the wall.

This narrative led the TWG to adopt the same language and they began to identify gaps in the wall of the Gospel, he said, which ultimately led them to decide on the six themes of the Seoul Statement.

Now we know there are many other gaps that we might identify, but we also had a limit on what we could make as the put together as a so statement in terms of word count, Poobalan commented.

He went on to talk about the context of the first Lausanne Congress in 1974 and how the TWG believed it differed from the situation of the global Church today.

It was a time when people were debating if the Bible was fully the inspired, authoritative word of God. And at that time, John Scott and the Lausanne Movement made a huge contribution to affirm the authority of Scripture, Poobalan said. We didn't have to revisit that, but we recognized that 50 years on it is not so much a debate about the authority of Scripture, but how we interpret the Scriptures. That has become the biggest sticking point.

Another section focused on the Church because we are not quite sure where the Church fits into our understanding of salvation and our journey to Heaven sometimes, so we needed more clarification, further reinforcement of what the Bible actually teaches us about the Church.

Poobalan also highlighted that the issue of discipleship clearly emerged as one of the key challenge today. Out of all the listening calls, the one that came right on top was the need for discipleship. And we recognize that we have to speak more about what does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and how do we make true disciples of Jesus Christ?

And so, the global church cried out that the biggest need all over the world was the need for discipleship, he said, but explained that the TWG had to narrow down and take specific issues, like holiness and discipleship, interpretation of Scripture because we are not very sure what an Evangelical hermeneutic looks like. We had to narrow down on issues that could become serious threats to the Gospel if those gaps were not filled.

Thus, Poobalan reiterated that the Seoul Statement sought to raise questions about these gaps specifically and not become a comprehensive standalone document. Pointing to the three previous Lausanne statement, he said, It is complimenting these amazing documents that have been produced before and that have been so well embraced globally.

Discussions to continue on Lausannes online platform

How well the Seoul Statement will be embraced by the global church will be seen in the years to come. Yet frustrations remained among some participants in the conference call, not only about the content itself but also about the process and lack of communication before and after it was released.

I was concerned about the lack of connection to Stotts holistic vision, including his clearly stated priority of evangelism that was not clearly articulated in the statement. Ive emailed those questions  before publishing about the issues, and then twice after, simply asking questions about next steps, one of Lausannes regional directors wrote in the chat.

No one has responded. Will anyone reply to questions to the committee, or should I expect no reply?

Another participant raised questions about passages that did not reflect a consensus perspective, asking in the chat: While you have highlighted the ethnic and linguistic diversity of the theologians involved in crafting the [Seoul Statement], certain sections may elide dissenting theological views held by some evangelicals. How did the [Theology Working Group] account for theological and political diversity?

While humility has been mentioned, dissenting opinions are still missing from the final statement. Could this shut down ongoing discussions and debates prematurely, and alienate certain evangelicals who hold differing views?

Acknowledging that many questions remained open and that the conference call did not allow sufficient time to respond to all of them, however, the Lausanne leadership invited participants to engage in further discussion on its online platform instead.

There were many more questions that were posted in the Q&A and I'm hoping that we can encourage you to take those questions and engage with one another on our Action Hub, said Jason Watson, Lausannes director of content who moderated the call.

This is a space for you as a movement to engage with one another. You might be wrestling with questions of integral mission or proclamation evangelism or what was missing and what should have been in and what could have been in, and we can continue down those lines, he said.

Continue those conversations, spark interest and engage with others.

This article was originally published at Christian Daily International
Feature: Pakistani astronaut to enter Chinese space station, marking new milestone of cooperation

Xinhua) 09:45, March 03, 2025

ISLAMABAD, March 1 (Xinhua) -- China and Pakistan on Friday signed a cooperation agreement here on spaceflight of a Pakistani astronaut on Chinese space station, the first time for a foreign astronaut, marking a new chapter of China-Pakistan aerospace cooperation.

"It is a landmark milestone in the history of Pakistan space program. Pakistan has become the member of the elite club of human space flight," said Muhammad Yousuf Khan, chairman of the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission.

Under the agreement, the selection process of astronauts will last for about a year, and the Pakistani astronauts will join in a comprehensive and systematic training camp in China.

"I see the human space flight program of China nowadays is at the top. China achieved the targets very quickly, and they got at equal with the International Space Station," said Khan.

According to Khan, Pakistan will select five astronaut candidates from the military and civilians, who will later be trained in China. Through physical fitness, mental tolerance and adaptability tests, the best two will be selected, and one of them will carry out the space flight mission together with Chinese counterparts.

"Our astronaut will be in space, and he will perform the experiments during his flight and his stay in Tiangong (Chinese space station), it will be broadcasted in Pakistan to motivate our young engineers, scientists and young generation," Khan noted.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif witnessed the signing of the agreement.

"This is yet another wonderful gesture from the Chinese government to further deepen our cooperation in this field and many other fields over the last many decades. And I would like to thank the Chinese government, for not only this program is underway speedily, but also supporting Pakistan throughout these years to strengthen our economy under the CPEC," he said.

Chinese astronaut Ye Guangfu also attended the signing ceremony. "Via these few days of communication, I have felt enthusiasm and sincerity of the Pakistani side. I am very willing to share my personal experience with Pakistani colleagues," he said.

"After they join our team, I will introduce to them precautions for key operations, help them adapt to training pace and master space flight skills as soon as possible. I look forward to the Pakistani astronaut being a member of the Chinese space station," he added.

Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the China Manned Space Agency, told Xinhua that China is always willing to share its development achievements for the benefits of mankind. The signing of the agreement provides an example for more developing countries to participate in international manned space cooperation, which will inspire more countries to work together to explore the mystery of the universe.

Such an agreement, under which the first foreign astronaut is Pakistani, reflected an unbreakable all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two countries, and with their friendship seen in the vast space," Lin said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Home News New Wyoming law protects teachers from having to use preferred pronouns

A new Wyoming law protects teachers and other state officials from being required to use trans-identified pronouns as teachers residing in other states have faced consequences for not using the preferred names and pronouns of their students.

Wyomings Republican Gov. Mark Gordon signed Senate File 77 into law Thursday. Upon taking effect, the measure became known as Senate Enrolled Act No. 23. Gordons approval follows both chambers of the Republican-controlled state legislature overwhelmingly approving the bill.

The legislation prohibits the state and its political subdivisions from "requiring the use of preferred pronouns."

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Specifically, the bill states the state and its political subdivisions shall not compel or require an employee to refer to another employee using that employees preferred pronouns as a requirement for employment or contracting with the state or political subdivision. Such a rule also can't be used as a requiremenet for a grant, loan, permit, contact license or any other benefit.

The law, scheduled to take effect on July 1, also prohibits the state and its political subdivisions from requiring employees to use preferred pronouns of trans-identified individuals under threat of adverse action by the state or a political subdivision, including but not limited to an adverse employment action, exclusion, sanction or punishment.

Those who feel they have been forced to use trans-identified preferred pronouns against their wishes have a right of action to seek legal recourse under the law.

In a statement Friday, Matt Sharp of the religious liberty legal group Alliance Defending Freedom said Wyoming is "rightfully stepping into the gap to protect freedom of conscience."

No one should lose their job or face punishment at work for declining to say something they believe is false," he said. "Words and language carry meaning, and when used properly, they communicate truth about the world. Forcing individuals to say things that are false  such as inaccurate pronouns  imposes real harm on the speaker.

In no world is it acceptable for the government to force good educators and other public servants out of a job all for the sake of promoting gender ideology," he continued. Freedom of speech and religion includes the freedom not to endorse messages contrary to ones core beliefs, and protecting these essential pillars of freedom benefits all of society.

The bill is opposed by LGBT advocates. Wyoming Equality Director Sara Burlingam claimed during a public comment period that the legislation could "lead to bullying and harassment," according to Wyoming Tribune Eagle. Supporters of the bill contend that there are already harassment protections in state law.

Wyoming is not the first state to take similar action. Last year, Idaho enacted a measure into law that prohibits compelling any public employee or public school student to communicate preferred personal titles and pronouns that do not correspond with the biological sex of the individual seeking to be referred to by such titles or pronouns.

Unlike the Wyoming measure, the Idaho bill specifically mentioned public school students and employees.

In 2021, Kansas math teacher Pamela Ricard was suspended for referring to a trans-identified female student by her given name and addressed her with female pronouns. As explained in the lawsuit contesting her suspension, Ricard is a devout Christian who holds sincere religious beliefs consistent with the traditional Christian and biblical understanding of the human person and biological sex. Ricard secured a $95,000 legal settlement in 2022.

In Virginia, French teacher Peter Vlaming was terminated for declining to use a male name and pronouns to address a trans-identified female student, citing similar religious beliefs about gender and sexuality.

In a settlement reached last year, the school district where he worked agreed to pay Vlaming $575,000 in damages and attorneys fees in addition to removing his termination from his record.
National consultant to support the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in strengthening data on women's entrepreneurship

Chisinau, Republic of Moldova

Job Info

Job Identification: 24556

Posting Date: 02/28/2025, 10:37 AM

Apply Before: 03/16/2025, 02:36 AM

Job Schedule: Part time

Locations: Chisinau, Republic of Moldova

Agency: UN Women

Vacancy Type: Individual Consultancy

Job Function: Economic Empowerment

Initial Contract Duration: March 2025 - November 2025

Education & Work Experience: Master's Degree - 2 year(s) experience OR Bachelor's Degree - 4 year(s) experience

Required Languages: Fluency in verbal & written Romanian and English

Desired Languages: Working knowledge of Russian

Vacancy Category: Local Opportunities

Vacancy Timeline: 2 Weeks

Job Description

Background:

UN Women, grounded in the vision of equality enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, works for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls; the empowerment of women; and the achievement of equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action and peace and security.

The work of UN Women in Moldova is guided by its Country Strategic Note 2023-2027, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for Moldova (2023-2027), UN Women Global Strategic Plan, National Programs and Strategies and aims to contribute to the gender-responsive implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Strategic Note focuses on four main areas: 1) Ending Violence against Women; 2) Womens Leadership and Governance; 3) Womens Economic Empowerment; and 4) Humanitarian and Peace development nexus and UN Coordination on gender equality and women empowerment.

To ensure that women and girls, including those at greatest risk of being left behind, have improved access to resources, equal opportunities, and rights to enjoy a life without discrimination and violence, UN Women is implementing the project Ending Violence, Expanding Livelihood Opportunities for Women and Accelerating Gender Governance in Moldova (EVOLVE4GE) with financial support of European Union. The project addresses the key challenges women and girls face in the country, such as a) gender-blind policies and budgets that enable the persistence and perpetuation of gender inequalities; b) uneven participation, contribution, and benefit of women and men from the national economy; c) high prevalence of gender-based violence and limited access to specialist services and capacities for integrated service provision.

One of the key priorities is to support national authorities in advancing women's economic empowerment through data generation and analysis of gender sensitive data. National Bureau of Statistics as the main central authority responsible for data production and coordination of production and development of official statistics in the national statistic system in the Republic of Moldova is the key partner for collecting gender-sensitive economic data. Part of the process, UN Women will provide targeted capacity-building initiatives for NBS staff and other data producers to strengthen their ability to collect, process, and analyze gender-disaggregated data. Additional support is oriented toward the development, analysis, and presentation of reports, studies/national analyses in the above-mentioned fields to provide comprehensive data and evidence for informed decision-making and actions, as well as to offer recommendations regarding national policies and the legal framework for the economic empowerment of women and women entrepreneurship.

Description of Responsibilities/ Scope of Work

In this regard, UN Women will contract an individual consultant to support NBS on mainstreaming gender into business statistics. Specifically, the consultant will lead efforts to: 1) map available statistical and administrative data from various sources, related to women entrepreneurship; 2) provide technical support to operationalize the statistical definition of women-owned businesses (WOB) and/or women-led businesses (WLB), 3) identify the core indicators to measure business demography by sex, women on business and trade, as well additional indicators needed to assess the entrepreneurial attitudes and barriers from gender perspective. The identified and analyzed core indicators will initially be produced as experimental statistics with potential to be integrated into official statistics on a regular basis.

The consultant will be responsible for the following activities:

Assess business statistics, trade statistics and other relevant statistical surveys and administrative data sources to generate additional data to analyse womens entrepreneurship. Facilitate the user-producers dialogue to identify needs and priorities on womens entrepreneurship data. Provide technical support to operationalize the statistical definition of women-owned businesses (WOB) and/or women-led businesses (WLB). Develop recommendations on core indicators and lead the documentation of data selection and analysis for business demography statistics, business and trade statistics as well qualitative indicators to assess the entrepreneurial attitudes and barriers from gender perspective. Provide technical support for developing and/or adjusting the existing methodology for data collection, data linkage and analyses, including tabulation of new indicators. Lead the development of final reports on business demography, mainstreaming gender into business and trade statistics. Lead the analysis of qualitative data to assess the entrepreneurial attitudes and barriers from gender perspective. Prepare Power Point Presentations and other materials for national workshop on womens entrepreneurship data and statistics.

The consultant will report to the Project Officer on womens economic empowerment, who will be the contact point on contract and payment issues, under overall coordination of the Project Manager and UN Women Specialist on womens economic empowerment. The ECA Regional Specialist on Statistics will lead the technical oversight of the entire process, ensuring alignment with international recommendations and the quality of the final deliverables. The consultant is expected to collaborate closely with designated counterparts at the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the ECA Regional Specialist on Statistics. Regular progress reports will be required in accordance with the outlined deliverables and work plan.

Deliverables

Working under the overall supervision of the UN Women Project officer on economic empowerment and ECA Regional Specialist on Statistics, the consultant will be responsible for the following:

Deliverable Expected completion time (due day) Payment Schedule (optional) Report on the mapping of available data sources and indicators produced by NBS on women entrepreneurship. By April 30, 2025 September 2025 Report on conceptual framework on compilation of women-owned businesses (WOB) and/or women-led businesses (WLB) and recommendations of core indicators for business demography along with summary of data analysis. Recommendations on key indicators and methodology for data collection using business and trade survey. By 15 July, 2025 Recommendations on data collection tools for assessing the entrepreneurial attitudes and barriers form gender perspective. By September 30, 2025 Analytical report with key indicators on gender and business, including trade By October 20, 2025 October 2025 Summary of key findings about entrepreneurial attitudes and barriers from gender perspective. By November 10, 2025 November 2025 PPP and other supporting materials to be used for national workshop

Language of deliverables

The reports and timesheets delivered to UN Women shall be prepared in English.

The technical deliverables shall be provided in Romanian, upon need, in English.

The technical deliverables shall be developed in consultation with BNS and UN Women.

The assignment should be carried out within a period of 9 months (with possibility of extension following satisfactory performance and needs for support expressed by national counterparts). The start date of the assignment is envisaged for March 2025 and will be completed by November 2025, unless extended by UN Women based on amended ToRs.

Financial Arrangements

Payments shall be made following certification by UN Women that the services related to each deliverable, as described above, have been satisfactorily completed and the deliverables have been achieved by or before the specified due dates.

Performance evaluation

The consultants performance will be evaluated against performance criteria such as timeliness, responsibility, initiative, communication, accuracy, and quality of the products delivered.

Consultants Workplace and Official Travel

Under the current assignment, no travel is envisaged. In the case of unforeseeable travel, UN Women will ensure transportation outside Chisinau. All travel shall be coordinated with UN Women.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Masters degree or equivalent in Economics/Statistics/ Ergonomics or a related field is required.

A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience:

Minimum 2 years of proven experience in designing and conducting surveys on topics related business and/or womens entrepreneurship is required.

Minimum 2 years of proven experience in analyzing quantitative data using statistical methods and qualitative data through thematic analysis or similar techniques is required.

Previous working experience with official statistics, with a particular focus on business statistics is required.

Experience in working with international organizations (successful experience in working with UN agencies) is an asset.

Languages:

Fluency in verbal & written Romanian and English.

Working knowledge of Russian will be considered an asset.

Competencies:

Core Values:

Integrity;

Professionalism;

Respect for Diversity.

Core Competencies:

Awareness and Sensitivity Regarding Gender Issues;

Accountability;

Creative Problem Solving;

Effective Communication;

Inclusive Collaboration;

Stakeholder Engagement;

Leading by Example.

Please visit this link for more information on UN Womens Values and Competencies Framework:

Functional Competencies:

Proficiency in statistical work including designing methodological notes for data collection.

Skills in the development of qualitative and quantitative tools for data collection.

Ability to interpret data results accurately and derive meaningful insights and conclusions.

Knowledge of gender dynamics, women's economic participation, and the specific barriers women face in business.

Ability to write clear, comprehensive, and accessible research reports that present findings, insights, and recommendations.

APPLICATION PROCESS AND SUBMISSION PACKAGE

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their online applications by March 16, 2025 through the following link: National consultant to support the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in strengthening data on women's entrepreneurship (Local post for Residents of the Republic of Moldova) - UN Women Careers . Applications should include the following documents:

Duly filled UN Women Personal History form (P-11) which can be downloaded from: https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/Headquarters/Attachments/Sections/About%20Us/Employment/UN-Women-P11-Personal-History-Form.doc . Applications without the completed UN Women P-11 form will be treated as incomplete and will not be considered for further assessment.

Letter of Intent to include a brief overview of your previous experiences makes you the most suitable candidate for the advertised position. (maximum length: 1 page)

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

Statements :

In July 2010, the United Nations General Assembly created UN Women, the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women. The creation of UN Women came about as part of the UN reform agenda, bringing together resources and mandates for greater impact. It merges and builds on the important work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system (DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW and UNIFEM), which focused exclusively on gender equality and women's empowerment.

Diversity and inclusion:

At UN Women, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. UN Women recruits, employs, trains, compensates, and promotes regardless of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, national origin, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, competence, integrity and organizational need.

If you need any reasonable accommodation to support your participation in the recruitment and selection process, please include this information in your application.

UN Women has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UN Women, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to UN Womens policies and procedures and the standards of conduct expected of UN Women personnel and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. (Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.)

Note: Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form, including the sections on education and employment history, are completed. If all sections are not completed the application may be disqualified from the recruitment and selection process.
Ida Karimi, finance director at the Unicorn Theatre Ida Karimi

Shortly after the end of World War II, Caryl Jenner, a woman experienced in all things theatre, started a mobile theatre in an old army truck.

The idea was to bring theatre to outlying schools and villages, with a commitment to offer children valuable quality theatre experiences.
Jon Anders Wiken / Adobe Stock

Last month, I chaired Civil Societys ESG Imperative Conference. It is always an inspiring and thought-provoking event. As always, the speakers and audience were committed to the subject matter and to ensuring that topics such as equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), the natural environment and social justice remain priorities in the charity sector.

Yet this year, there was something slightly different in the atmosphere. The event took place not long after president Trump suspended federal employees working on EDI projects. Shortly after his announcement, some of Americas (and the worlds) largest corporations followed suit.

So, are charities about to abandon their focus on ESG too? Thankfully, it seems not. To start with, by their very nature, charities are driven by a socially aware agenda. This means that issues that corporations can choose to turn a blind eye to, charities cannot (there are also some businesses that will not change their views on ESG due to a change in the political winds).

Secondly, the conversations, panel discussions and general mood at the event demonstrated that many charities are staying the course, with ESG remaining an area of focus for them.

It is a topic where charities can learn from each other and the sharing of knowledge is key. We here at Civil Society want to support charities on their ESG journey, and to this end, we have launched our ESG Imperative Project.

This brings together a range of work we are already doing supporting charities in this area  such as the conference, training, the Charity Finance responsible investment supplement, this months special feature on impact investment and more.

It also gives us the scope to build on this work and one thing we have heard many times from the conference and speaking to the sector is that there is a need for information and guidance on various elements of an ESG journey.

To this end, with this issue youll find our first ESG best practice guide  An A-Z of ESG. We will follow this up with more titles aimed at helping the sector develop its understanding and practice in all things ESG. If you would like to suggest any topics for future guides to cover, then please get in touch. And, of course, thanks to Evelyn Partners for supporting this first guide.

Please visit civilsociety.co.uk/projectESG for more info.

Tristan Blythe is editor of Charity Finance

Charity Finance is packed with practical articles and analysis of the latest financial trends, as well as in-depth briefings on technical and legal changes, and benchmarking surveys to help busy finance teams get value for money. Find more information here and subscribe today! is packed with practical articles and analysis of the latest financial trends, as well as in-depth briefings on technical and legal changes, and benchmarking surveys to help busy finance teams get value for money.
By Markus Mainka, Adobe

The median annual salary for chief executives at the UKs largest 100 charities has risen to 192,000, according to new research.

Today, Charity Finance , Civil Societys sister publication, published its latest Charity Chief Executive Survey 2025 .

The previous survey found that the top charity CEOs received a median salary of 175,000, up from 170,000 in 2021 and 155,000 in 2019.

This years survey also shows that the top jobs at the largest charities continue to be dominated by men, unlike in the sector more broadly.

Highest and lowest-paid leaders

Charity Finances biennial survey profiles leaders at the largest 100 UK charities and gathers their views on the current economic and political environment.

Where CEOs did not wish to participate, publicly available data including on LinkedIn and Companies House were used to complete the table.

Looking at the salaries of the 71 CEOs for which data was available, the survey shows that they earned 192,000 per annum on average.

John-Arne Rttingen, who joined Wellcome as CEO in January 2024, is among the highest-paid charity CEOs in the survey, with an annual income of 580,000.

Paul Nurse, CEO of the Francis Crick Institute, earned between 460,000 and 470,000 last year.

The lowest-paid leaders were Dave Kendall, chief officer of the Church of Scotland (95,000); Saleh Saeed, chief executive of the Disasters Emergency Committee (99,666); and Khusbu Patel, acting executive director of the International Rescue Committee, UK (107,000).

Meanwhile, Paul Main, territorial commander of the Salvation Army in the UK and Ireland, receives an annual remuneration of 22,668 to cover his cost of living.

A recent analysis by the High Pay Centre shows that the median pay of the FTSE 100 CEOs, excluding pension, currently stands at 4.22m.

Gender split and total income

Seven charities in the sample do not currently have a chief executive.

At 62%, men make up most of the top 93 CEOs, according to the survey.

Overall, 30% of the 92 CEOs for which information was available have been in post for a year or less compared with 48% who have been in the role for five years or more.

Nearly seven in 10 CEOs previously held a position in the voluntary sector before taking up their current role. This compares with 17% who were previously in the private sector and 16% in the public sector.

The organisations included in the survey are the largest UK charities according to the Charity Finance 100 Index, which ranks members based on their average income over the last three years.

Between them, all charities in the survey have a combined total three-year average income of 17.9bn.

The top three charities  Nuffield Health, the Charities Aid Foundation and Cancer Research UK  have a combined three-year average income of 2.58bn.

Editors note: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that Philip Colligan, CEO of the Raspberry Pi Foundation, earned a salary in the bracket of 520,000-530,000.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
Gambling support charity appoints CEO

Victoria Corbishley has been appointed as the chief executive of gambling support charity GamCare.

Corbishley joins GamCare from the British Red Cross, where she served as senior director of health and care.

She said: My focus will be on ensuring GamCare remains a leader in delivering life-changing interventions while working closely with partners across the NHS and wider sector to shape the future of gambling harm prevention treatment.

New CEO for Neurodiversity charity

Neurodiversity charity the Donaldson Trust has appointed Lynn Wassell as its new chief executive, effective from March.

She takes over the role from Laura Watkins, who previously established the charity as the National Body for Neurodiversity and is stepping down after 10 years.

Wassell said: I feel extremely privileged to be joining the team at the Donaldson Trust as their next chief executive, building on the invaluable contribution that Laura has made.

The charity has a remarkable history in providing support to children, young people and adults and I look forward to building on that legacy with energy and a clear vision for the future, to grow and extend our support for neurodivergent people and deliver meaningful change.

Cranfield Trust CEO announces retirement

Amanda Tinckell has announced that she is retiring as the CEO of the pro bono support and mentoring charity, Cranfield Trust, after 25 years of her role.

Tinckell will remain at the trust while the board undertakes the recruitment to find her successor, which will begin in March 2025.

She said: Its been an absolute privilege to have been chief executive at Cranfield Trust for such a significant amount of time.

As the trust comes to the end of its 35th anniversary year, I feel the time is right for me to pass the baton to a new leader to take the trust forward.

Im enormously proud of how the trust has developed over the years and that its ethos and vision has always remained the same: to support and empower charities with confidence and capabilities they need, whatever challenges they face.

New CEO for Momentum Childrens Charity

Sarah Woods has been appointed as the new CEO for Momentum Childrens Charity, effective from May.

Woods will join the charity from Starlight Childrens Foundation where she is director of fundraising and marketing. She has worked across a number of communications, fundraising and strategic roles at similar organisations.

She will be replacing outgoing CEO Bianca Effemey in the role, who previously occupied the role for 21 years and is now retiring.

New chair for Access Accountancy

Mark Pavlides has been announced as the new chair for social mobility charity, Access Accountancy. Pavlides is the current ICAEW interim managing director of operations. He is set to replace outgoing chair Sharron Gunn, who left the role in November last year.

Pavlides has more than 25 years of operational and commercial expertise across multiple industries, including finance, professional services, transport and technology.

He has held senior leadership roles at organisations such as ACCA, Govia Thameslink Railway, William Hill, AIG and British Airways.

Cardboard Citizens announces new chair and trustee

Anna Williams has been appointed the new chair of the board of trustees of arts and social justice charity, Cardboard Citizens. She will succeed outgoing chair Prue Skene, who had previously chaired the board since 2016.

Williams is presently interim CEO at Aesop Arts and Society Ltd; prior to this, she was at Birmingham Royal Ballet for almost 30 years.

Mete Akkemik has also been appointed to the charitys board of trustees, having previously been a long-time supporter of its work.

New chair for Charities Aid Foundation

The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF) has appointed Edward Braham as its chair, effective July 2025.

Braham is currently chair of M&G plc. He is also a non-executive member of the board of HM Treasury and chair of the Lord Mayors Appeal board of trustees.

He will succeed James Leigh-Pemberton, who has been chair of CAF since January 2019, having joined the board in April 2018.

Former minister appointed chair of Bikeability Trust

Former minister for the environment and minister for transport, Trudy Harrison, has been appointed as the new chair of the Bikeability Trust.

Harrison, also the former MP for Copeland, said: Enabling more people to walk, wheel and cycle safely has been a major focus throughout my career, and I am delighted to take on the role as chair at the Bikeability Trust.

Supporting children and families to develop the confidence to cycle is critical in creating a healthier future for Britain.

Bikeability has done incredible work delivering high-quality cycle training, and I look forward to helping drive this vital work forward.

Better Society Capital appoints new director to board

Fiona Miller Smith has been appointed to the board of directors of Better Society Capital.

Miller Smith is the CEO of Barts Charity, one of Europes largest health foundations, which manages a 500m investment and commercial property portfolio.

She also currently serves as chair of Baronsmead Venture Trust plc, an education-focused charity, and is a trustee of John Lyons Charity and sits on the Barts Life Sciences Advisory Board.

The appointment comes as Better Society Capital prepares to launch its 2026 strategy, due for publication in late 2025.

St John Ambulance appoints new COO

St John Ambulance has announced the appointment of Matthew Killick as the first aid charitys chief operating officer, effective from early May.

Killick will join St John Ambulance from Scouts, where he served as executive director of operations from July 2023.

In this role, he was responsible for overseeing all operations, including safety and safeguarding, member support, growth and communities, and youth programmes.

Killick said: Im truly excited to be joining an organisation that plays such a vital role in society. St John is an incredible charity, and I look forward to working alongside the dedicated employees and volunteers who make such a difference every day to the lives of others.

GOSH Charity welcomes first chief technology officer

Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity has welcomed Richard Grove as its first-ever chief technology officer.

Grove, who has more than 20 years of experience in digital, AI, and data, will join the charity's senior leadership team and play a key role in driving technological innovation.

Previous roles held by Grove have included chief digital officer at the University of London as well as a position as a senior digital leader working on the London 2012 Olympics.

Helpforce gets new head of comms

Martin McGlown has been appointed as the new head of communications at health volunteering charity Helpforce.

McGlown was formerly the UK media head at Cancer Research UK (CRUK) for more than two decades.

McGlown said: Its a charity that already punches well above its weight and I hope that I can make a significant contribution to its continued growth and impact.

During my time at CRUK I witnessed the incredible contribution that volunteers make to the charity  be it working in its shops, assisting at fundraising events or helping to influence politicians as campaigners.

ZSL appoints director of development

Global conservation charity Zoological Society of London has appointed Pippa Carte as its new director of development.

Carte will begin her role in March 2025, succeeding Catherine Hart, who moved to a new role as CEO of a leading UK cancer charity.

Bringing more than 25 years of fundraising experience as a trustee, board member, and senior fundraiser to ZSL, including at WWF-UK and the Galapagos Conservation Trust, Carte will join the charitys executive committee as leader of the development team.

Employers charity ENEI appoints new trustee

The Employers Network for Equality and Inclusion has announced the appointment of Jennie Drimmer, chief revenue officer at Thomas International, as a trustee.

Drimmer has over 20 years of experience working with HR, procurement, and finance leaders across Europe.

She has held senior roles at Coursera and Humanforce.

Goldsmiths Foundation announces first board of trustees

The Goldsmiths Foundation has appointed a new board of trustees to lead the charity as it renews its focus on support for vocational skills, the crafts of jewellery and silversmithing, and the wider creative industries.

The Goldsmiths Foundation (formerly, the Goldsmiths Company Charity) will be chaired by Lynne Brindley, former Master of Pembroke College, Oxford and previously CEO of the British Library.

The board of nine trustees includes Blondel Cluff, currently CEO of the West India Committee, a UK charity that is a consulting NGO of UNESCO founded in the City of London by Royal Charter, and Diane Lees, former director-general of the Imperial War Museum until 2023.

Small Charities Advisory Panel gains five new members

The Small Charities Advisory Panel (SCAP), led by NCVO, has appointed five new members, ensuring that small charities remain at the heart of its advocacy work.

The new members are as follows: Nasar Iqbal, founder and director of Black Country Innovate CIC; Kate Little, deputy chief executive of CVS Cheshire East; Jumoke Quadri, chief executive of Nurturing Foundations; Kynton Swingle, community development manager of Fox Hollies Community Association, and Bill Yuksel, trustee at Mindera UK Foundation.

SCAP aims to see small charities more meaningfully engaged in policy and funding discussions by 2028.

Retail Trust appoints royal patron

Princess Anne has become patron of the Retail Trust, after her mother the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Chris Brook-Carter, chief executive of the Retail Trust, said: We couldnt be more honoured that the princess royal has become our patron and in doing so continues the Retail Trusts 74-year relationship with the royal family.

Were all extremely grateful for the long-standing support of the late queen and were now very much looking forward to engaging HRH the princess royal, our new patron, with the Retail Trusts work to protect the health and happiness of UK retail workers.

The Retail Trust has been caring for and improving the lives of people working in retail since 1832.

Lewy Body Society unveils new patron

Rob Rinder, barrister, broadcaster and author, has been announced as the new patron of the Lewy Body Society.

Rinders father is currently living with Lewy body dementia, and Rinder has frequently publicly spoken about the challenges faced by people with the disease and their families.

Rinder said: I have followed the Lewy Body Societys work for some time, and as patron, I will now have the opportunity to support further the vital work they do in ensuring people with Lewy body dementia are not left behind by society, the medical profession or the government.

sign up to receive the free Civil Society daily news bulletin here . For more news, interviews, opinion and analysis about charities and the voluntary sector,
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If you had asked me to come up with the most pandering question possible to put to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, I dont think I could have produced something better than the softball lobbed by Breitbart reporter Matt Boyle at the Trump administrations first press briefing, in January. You laid out several of the actions that President Trump has taken, Boyle said to Leavitt. Obviously, its a stark contrast to the previous administration and a breakneck speed from President Trump. Can we expect that pace to continue? (There is no doubt President Trump has always been the hardest-working man in politics, Leavitt replied. This president did more in the first hundred hours than the previous president did in the first hundred days.)

More of this fawning treatment, it seems, is coming soon. Last week, Leavitt announced that the Trump administration would be hand-selecting the outlets participating in the press pool, the group of journalists responsible for conveying information about happenings in the White House to a broader corps of correspondents. The idea behind the system is that space and resources are limited, so a rotating group is designated to report from the briefing room and to follow the president whenever he leaves the White House. For decades, an independent organization called the White House Correspondents Association has been responsible for credentialing and coordinating the pool, as well as delineating protocol. Not anymore, Leavitt said.

Its beyond time that the White House press operation reflects the media habits of the American people in 2025, not 1925, she added, noting that the goal is including outlets that have been excluded in the past and restoring power back to the American people, who President Trump was elected to serve. In the first configuration, the wire service spots usually reserved for journalists from Reuters and the Associated Press were designated for conservative outlets Newsmax and Blaze Media.

Predictably, the announcement was met with outrage. This move tears at the independence of a free press in the United States, WHCA president Eugene Daniels wrote in a statement. One of the primary concerns is that, in curating the press pool, the administration can avoid facing challenging questions that might produce less flattering coverage. And Daniels pushed back against the idea that White House intervention was necessary to reflect a changing media ecosystem. For generations, the working journalists elected to lead the White House Correspondents Association have consistently expanded the WHCAs membership and its pool rotations to facilitate the inclusion of new and emerging outlets. The editor of Bloomberg News, a wire service that was chosen for the first pool, joined those from the AP and Reuters in issuing a statement: It is essential in a democracy for the public to have access to news about their government from an independent, free press, they wrote, adding that reducing the number of represented wire services harms the spread of reliable information.

Even some conservative voices expressed alarm. Jacqui Heinrich, a White House correspondent for Fox News (which, of course, generally provides coverage favorable to Trump), wrote on X that this move does not give the power back to the peopleit gives power to the White House. Conservative political commentator Megyn Kelly said that, though she appreciates the administrations effort to integrate new outlets, you need true pros who have got a lot of experience covering the president. (Many of the outlets brought into the fold by the administration have been criticized for their lack of professionalism and journalistic rigor.)

Since Trump took office six weeks ago, the administration has been not-so-gradually edging toward this most recent edict. At Leavitts first briefing as press secretary, she announced that a seat in the briefing room would be reserved for a member of the new mediapodcasters, influencers, and reporters of the administrations choosing who have not previously had a seat. In each of the four briefings given by Leavitt since Trump took office, this reporter has been allowed to ask the first question. The administration also reassigned office space in the Pentagon formerly occupied by NPR, NBC, and the New York Times to HuffPost and pro-Trump outlets Breitbart and One America News. Right-wing radio hosts Clay Travis and Buck Sexton were invited to broadcast their show from the building. And then the AP was denied entry into White House press events after refusing to call the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America. It sued.

Admittedly, conservative outlets have not been the only ones given increased access by the new administration; on the day of Leavitts announcement about the most recent press pool shake-up, Semafor, which has done rigorous reporting since its founding, in 2022, was in the new media seat. And to me, the announcement itself does seem at least in part to be a deliberate troll meant to activate the indignation of the legacy mediaand activate it did!though this is not to say that this most recent step toward authoritarianism will not have real-world consequences.

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Still, I think that one of the biggest dangers of the press pool takeover is that it brings the administration one step closer to convincing the public that an adversarial press is an obstacle to effective governance. Trumps message remains that opposition is the root of inefficiency, and inefficiency is the hallmark of an outdated and oppressive political establishment. The medias scrutiny may well slow the pace of reformboth the reckless kind and the good and necessary kind. Still, flattery has no place in the briefing room. Hard questions may be an inconvenience, but thats exactly the point.
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Congolese journalist Paul Ntumba woke up on January 18 to the news that the M23 rebel military group had launched a new offensive to expand its territory in the volatile eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

For the director of a radio station in the rebel-controlled town of Rutshuru, in the North Kivu province, this new offensive only meant more censorship, more threats, and a more uncertain future.

I have lost two members of my family, says the forty-year-old Ntumba (whose name weve changed to protect his safety). The presence of M23 rebels in eastern DRC has curtailed the movement of journalists, jeopardized their safety, and stifled their liberty. We face difficult working conditions: programs undergo censorship, forcing some media organs to completely shut down.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been unstable since the 1960s, and the revolt by the M23 in its eastern region remains one of the major security challenges facing the country in recent decades.

The 1994 Rwandan genocide fueled much of this conflict, as genocidaires and victims both fled Rwanda at different times, leading to large refugee populations inhabiting the eastern DRC. These refugee populations reacted to a lack of strong governance in this remote section of the country by building militias.

Prominent non-state armed groups in the region include the M23, the FDLR (the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), and the Allied Democratic Forces, or ADF. The M23, a Tutsi-led groupwhose name stands for the March 23 Movementreemerged from dormancy in November 2021, and accused the DRC of ignoring a promise to integrate its fighters into the army.

Refugees have joined these groups in hopes of economic gain or due to ideological fervor. The governments of Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi have supported the different groups at various points, using them as proxies for each states interests in the region.

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Rwanda has been accused by DRC officials of supporting the M23; Rwanda accuses Uganda, the DRC, and Burundi of supporting the FDLR; Burundi accuses Rwanda of supporting RED-Tabara; Uganda accuses Rwanda of supporting the Allied Democratic Forces.

The latest M23 offensive has been met with international opprobrium as it violates a ceasefire agreement between Rwanda and the DRC established through the Luanda Peace Process.

On January 27, the M23 rebels said they had taken control of Goma, a city of roughly two million people. This came a day after the UN peacekeeping chief, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, called on them to cease their activities and withdraw from occupied territory.

Ntumba fled Goma the same day the M23 rebels claimed control of the city, seeking refuge in Kiwanja, a community seventy-five kilometers from Goma.

The government has prohibited journalists from disseminating M23-related content. The M23 rebels, for their part, persecute journalists who broadcast content that favors the Congolese governments discourse. Ntumba has repeatedly been accused by each side of supporting the other.

The first time, I was questioned by a colonel of the M23 who told me the radio station I manage was broadcasting hate messages, which was not true. The second time, it was the [government] intelligence services, who arrested me with another journalist in Goma when I was going to Rutshuru [a rebel-controlled area]. After an hour of questioning, I was released after posting bail, Ntumba recalls.

The third time, Ntumba says, was when he was summoned by an M23 spokesperson, who made startling allegations against him.

He accused me of telling my reporters not to work with the M23. I was told to choose between working with them and vacating the area, Ntumba tells CJR.

The fourth time was when an agent of the General Directorate of Migration of the DRC stopped me from my journey to Rwanda on January 26, 2025, confiscated my passport, and threatened to arrest me after seeing Kiwanja/Rutshuru written as the place of residence. He told me: You journalists have never been reliable people. Again, I was forced to post bail.

The same day, upon arriving at the DRC-Uganda border, Ntumba was held for several hours by the M23 migration service, and only released after hours of questioning. Despite practicing self-censorship, we are still under a lot of pressure, he says.

Ntumbas story is unfortunately all too common for many journalists working in the war-torn eastern DRC. Eugene Amani, a Congolese journalist with Panier des Infos, a local online news outfit, and Sauti Ya Wahamia news bulletin run by displaced journalists for displaced people in the countrysays he now works under a high risk of arrest, interrogation, and kidnapping.

One day, Amani recalls, he and his peers were intimidated by a group of armed men who accused them of being accomplices of enemies of the state. It took an intervention from a local leader for us to be released, he tells CJR.

They even forbade us from alerting journalists-rights defense organizations and threatened to come back for our heads if we did. And that was not all. A journalist was arrested and falsely accused of siding with the M23. Later, during a report in an IDP [internally displaced persons] camp, we were tagged enemies of the state by an armed group, which threatened to arrest us, according to Amani.

Amani was overwhelmed by fear when he learned of the M23 march on Goma. I should have left Goma for safety by now if I had the means, he says. But lack of means only means one is forced to stay and will be subjected to the rules of M23 if it finally captures the city.

Nearly three thousand people have been killed in Goma since the conflict escalated, according to the UN. At least six million people have died in the ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo since 1996, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in world history. The conflict has also displaced over five million Congolese, engendering a cycle of poverty and militarization.

Journalists working in these areas are not so different from those working in Sudan, Ukraine, or Gaza, but they are unique in Congolese regulations, Josaphat Musamba, a Congolese doctoral researcher at Ghent University (Belgium) who is based in the eastern DRC city of Bukavu, tells CJR.

In terms of access to combat theaters, journalists from Goma, Bukavu, or Bunia have difficulty reporting live. Many are faced with these limitations and prohibitionsonly those who work with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo [FARDC] report live in theaters of operations, according to Musamba.

He said that Congolese journalists are today faced with insecurity, difficult access to information, and inadequate support. Some are also threatened by the rebels for divulging secrets or revealing hidden truths, Musamba says.
Most insurance executives surveyed last year believe they have an ethical obligation to close the protection gapand also believe that lack of trust in the insurance industry is a key barrier standing in the way.

Economist Impact, a division of the Economist Group which aims to partner with corporations, governments and nonprofits to deliver positive societal change, and SAS, a provider of data analytics and AI solutions, conducted the Future of Insurance survey of more than 500 insurance executives from 17 countries in September and October 2024.

Just over 78% agreed with the statement, The insurance industry has an ethical obligation to close the global protection gap, with 37.5% saying they agree strongly and 41% agreeing somewhat.

The term global protection gap refers to the difference between insured and uninsured losses across life, health, natural catastrophe and crop insurance. In dollars, Swiss Re Institute measured a $1.8 trillion gap for 2022, according to a 2023 report titled Restoring resilience. More recently, Aon and WTW separately calculated a 60% protection gap for losses from natural disasters globally for 2024 (2025 Climate and Catastrophe Insight, Aon, Jan. 22,2025 and WTW Natural Catastrophe Review 2024, WTW, Jan. 28, 2025)

Related articles: Economic Losses From Natural Disasters Soared in the U.S. in 2024; Natural Catastrophes Insurance Protection Gap Stands at 60%: WTW

Insurance executives surveyed by SAS and Economist Impact across the globe also believe that there is significant business opportunity to be found in closing the global protection gap. Just over 40% agree strongly that this is the case and 35.7% somewhat agree.

They face barriers to closing the gap, however, they also agree.

Insurance executives regard the following as top barriers that significantly/very much limit their organizations ability to address the global protection gap:

Franklin Manchester, Principal Global Insurance Advisor at SAS, highlighted the trust issue that topped the list with 76.5% citing waning consumer trust as a key factor. Its no wonder why, he said. As carriers retreat from disaster-prone areas and data privacy violations are revealed, insurers must act decisively to regain consumer and regulator confidence, he said in a media statement.

Full data transparency and investment in responsible innovation would be a significant step forward to reputation and brand reformone of the top three outcomes the surveyed execs report could come from closing the protection gap, he said.

For P/C insurance executives surveyed, other positive outcomes of closing the protection gap ranked in the top three were a diversified investment portfolio and more diversification of insurance products. Across all insurance sectors, executives also saw increased insurance profits as a potential beneficial outcome (tied for third-place with product diversification).

More Report Themes

While executives answered many questions about the protection gap, climate change and ESG initiatives, the broad focus of the report was to identify significant trends poised to shape the industry in the coming decade, strategies insurers are pursuing to stay ahead of these trends and potential roadblocks.

Aggregate survey results across all regions and all sectors of the insurance industry show that executives ranked changing market dynamicsspecifically, the entry of new competitors and industry consolidationand the rise and spread of AI and generative AI, far and away, as the top two trends most likely to influence the industry. Forty-eight percent selected changing market dynamics out of a list of a dozen potentially impactful trends, and 42% selected AI.

While most of the other trends, like increasing cybersecurity risks and increasing data privacy regulations, garnered 25-30% of the selections, the next most popular selection was the pressure to prioritize ESG principlesselected by 39% of respondents.

In another section of the survey, 80% of respondents said they believe other industries have made more progress on ESG commitments than insurers.

Given the timing of the collection of survey responsesbefore the U.S. elections last yearCarrier Management couldnt help but wonder whether some results might be different were the survey conducted again today. As President Trump ushers in a new era of deregulation in the U.S., with less focus on climate, DEI and other initiatives, and the EU retreats from some planned ESG regulations, do insurance industry executives still see an ethical responsibility to close the protection gap? Is there still the same impetus to follow through on ESG commitments?

While there isnt another study in the works right now, Manchester offered some thoughts via email.

The environmental, social and governance three-legged stool has a branding problem, and its often used interchangeably with climate, sustainability and resiliency. Valid concerns have been raised about large organizations (and nations) exiting climate accords and commitments in recent weeks, but we must acknowledge that insurers, by definition, have a stake in the environment, social issues and governance, he said.

They are companies with mission and value statements, with reputations to manage, and with foundations that drive positive change.

In addition, he said that all technologies (not only AI) must be governednot only to support regulation but also because capital matters and solvency requirements are real. Technology run amok can bankrupt a carrier faster than you can say inconvenient truth,' he said. (Editors Note: An Inconvenient Truth was a 2006 documentary about former U.S. Vice President Al Gores campaign to educate people about global warming.)

Manchester also noted that investments in ESG pay off for insurers and society, referring to a recent study finding that every $1 invested in resiliency reduces damage and cleanup by $6, and economic loss by $7: a return of 13-to-1.

Related article: Investing in Climate Resilience Really Pays Off: Study

Tech Strategies and Outcomes: What About Talent?

Surveyed executives were asked to identify the avenues they believe would help their organizations most effectively target the global protection gap. Three of the most popular methods involve technology:

Using technologies to make insurance products more affordable (48%); 40% of the respondents organizations are currently deploying.

Developing innovative insurance products like parametric or microinsurance (42%); currently in action at 40% of respondents organizations.

Leveraging data to better assess risks and design products (39%); 32% of the respondents organizations are working on.

Turning the focus inward, much of the survey focused on technology investments and other strategies that insurance executives have been pursuing, or expect to move on in the near future in order to take advantage of broader trends and achieve desired outcomes.

What are the most important outcomes for your organization to achieve through efforts to stay ahead or take advantage of these trends?

Forty-six percent of the executives answering this question selected minimizing underwriting and operational costs as a target outcome. No other targeted outcome was close. Ranking second, selected by one-third of executives, was market expansion.

Which of the following strategies have been, or do you expect to be, most effective for your organization to stay ahead or take advantage of these trends?

Here, optimize actuarial processes was the clear frontrunner, selected by 43% of executives. Increased use of data for decision-making ranked behind that (35%).

Only 27 percent of executives said they believe closing the skills gap would be among the most effective strategies to employ to take advantage of emerging trends, and just 28% will prioritize talent management in the next three-to-five years. And in terms of targeted outcomes, improved employee retention and satisfaction ranked ninth out of a dozen possibilities, selected by one-quarter of the surveyed executives as a desired outcome.

These results surprised Manchester.

The industry is barreling towards a talent crisis. Were seeing data on the silver tsunami of outgoing talentand a lack of interest from potential up-and-comerscited in the U.S., as well as in Europe and Asia-Pacific. This is a crisis in the making, he said.

Keeping talent is hard and a lack of talent spells disaster. We can water down concern about AI stealing jobs from humans in insurance when reckoning with the fact that AI can supplement the work of what underwriters, adjusters, or agents do. But the reverse isnt true, he said, referencing an idea from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang: AI wont steal your job. Someone whos an expert with AI will.'

Said Manchester: Insurers need to understand that people are their greatest asset. Hiring good ones, training them well, giving them the tools they need to be successful and providing clear, regular feedback on their performance is part of a successful business strategy.

Beyond talent initiatives and setting ESG goals, the executives were asked to indicate whether they have already implemented or expect to implement 11 specific strategiesranging from cybersecurity investments to setting up agile organizational structuresin the next three-to-five years.

The most likely strategies to be have been implemented already were agile organizational structures (43%), diversifying distribution channels (42%), and optimizing actuarial processes (40%).

Sixty-four percent of insurers have not invested in cybersecurity nor established transparent guidelines for collection, use and storage of data.
Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin sued General Motors and its subsidiary OnStar this week, alleging the car manufacturer deceived Arkansans by collecting and selling driver information to third parties, who then sold the data to insurance companies.

The lawsuit alleges GM collected location data on all drivers who activated the internet connection for their GM vehicles, even if the drivers did not enroll or opt-in to OnStar services. Griffin accuses GM of violating the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. The lawsuit seeks monetary relief, injunctive relief, and attorneys fees and expenses.

This case is about General Motors and OnStar improperly collecting detailed driving data and selling that data to third parties, Griffin said. These third parties then sold the data to insurance companies, who used that data to deny consumers coverage or increase their rates.

GM captured Arkansans driving data using GM vehicles telematics systems, and the mobile apps that GM provides to customers such as myChevrolet, myCadillac, myGMC and myBuick. Unlike usage-based insurance programs that required an optional device installed by the customer that used driving data to reward good driving behavior, GM used the telematics system to unilaterally collect its customers driving data, analyze it, and sell it in a manner that, unknown to the driver, penalized bad driving behavior, the lawsuit states.

GM began selling driver data in 2015, and over the course of nearly a decade, the car manufacturer continued to sell, re-sell, and have other companies license out access to its customers driving data, Arkansas alleges.

GM entered into an agreement with data broker Verisk Analytics in 2015 to sell customers driving data. The lawsuit alleges that GM told Verisk it collected and sold driving data without customers consent.

Verisk established a telematics data exchange to house the driver data received from GM, then used that data to create a driving score calculated on factors including speed, acceleration, breaking and driver behavior, Arkansas says.

Upon purchasing the rights to access the data exchange, insurance companies could use it to search for the driving score of their insureds or potential insureds.

Arkansas alleges the information was used to financially harm GMs customers, including by denying prospective insureds coverage, increasing insureds monthly payments or dropping their current insureds from coverage entirely.

Despite advertising OnStar as offering the benefits of better driving, safety, and operability of its vehicles, GM and OnStar used the data to pad their profits at the expense of consumers, Griffin said.

GM and other auto manufacturers have come under scrutiny in recent years for driver data sharing practices. At least two U.S. senators have urged the FTC to investigate how automakers sell customers data to brokers who sell it to insurance companies.

GM announced last year it would end its OnStar Smarter Driver program after GM vehicle owners complained they didnt know they had consented to the program or that the selling of their personal driving data led their insurance rates to go up.

In January GM reached a settlement with the FTC over claims it deceived drivers by collecting their personal data and sharing it with third parties.
As public perception and the legality of cannabis and other novel psychoactive substances continue to evolve, what emerging risks and litigation should insurance professionals keep an eye on?

Last week, Verisk Analytics hosted a webinar to answer those questions and highlight trends associated with recreational marijuana, hemp-derived cannabis products and other substances. Subject matter experts also touched on psychedelic drugs and therapies.

Cannabis Landscape

Twenty-four states and the District of Columbia have legalized recreational cannabis. Medical cannabis is legal in 40 states. To drive home a point of continued cannabis industry enthusiasm among advocates and a growing base of opposition, Laura Panesso, associate vice president of governmental relations at Verisk, shared that 16 states proposed legislation to legalize and regulate adult-use marijuana use last year.

Interestingly enough, none of those passed, Panesso said. Voters also rang in on five ballot measures in 2024; only one, a medical cannabis measure in Nebraska, was approved. Seven states have proposed cannabis-related bills in 2025.

On the federal level, President Donald Trump issued a statement before the election largely aligning himself with the Biden administration, where he affirmed that he supports legalizing the recreational use of marijuana, Panesso said. The president also voiced support for focusing on research to unlock the medical uses of marijuana to a Schedule 3 drug in a September post on Truth Social.

The SAFER Banking Act is expected to be filed as a bill again this session  but that introduction does not really appear to be imminent, as some reports have suggested, Panesso said. The act would provide a federal safe harbor protection to financial institutions, lenders, insurers and others serving the cannabis industry.

Connection Between Marijuana Potency and Litigation

Some of the growing litigation emerging in the cannabis market are starting to feature potency, according to Greg Scoblete, a principal on Verisks Emerging Issues team.

The perception that marijuana is an essentially harmless substance may be a perception based on a marijuana product that may not really exist anymore, he explained. Marijuana studied by health researchers appears to be a significantly more potent product, he added, pointing to possible links between marijuana consumption and a range of potential mental health harms.

The increasing number of lawsuits reportedly targeting entities within the cannabis market now includes allegations of personal injury tied to cannabis products.

Now, its a small percentage of the overall legal activity thats been reported in the cannabis market, but given this health research Ive highlighted here, it is possible, at least in principle, that it may grow if more individuals experience adverse health impacts from cannabis consumption, he said of the personal injury allegations.

Multiple product liability cases filed against one major cannabis brand allege that teenagers  among others  who consumed its products suffered from acute mental health problems, Scoblete shared.

Meanwhile, a class action lawsuit alleges that several cannabis firms mislabeled their products to downplay potency and conform to the states legal limits. And in Minnesota, plaintiffs are alleging that dispensaries sold products that contained as much as 20 times the legal amount of THC.

Interestingly, plaintiffs have also taken the other side, alleging the products they consumed were not potent enough, Scoblete explained.

All of this sort of rolls into what appears to be a persistent issue within these legal marijuana markets: product testing, label accuracy, enforcement of testing and accuracy requirements, Scoblete said.

This still appears to be a significant challenge.

Hemp-Derived Cannabis Products Overview

The 2018 Farm Bill, among other things, created a market for hemp products that contain no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC, the molecule in marijuana responsible for creating a high. But legal hemp contains many psychoactive molecules in small quantities, Scoblete explained, and entities have mined them to create marijuana-like products that arent technically marijuana, creating an expanded universe of intoxicating hemp.

Though not nearly as large on a market value basis as the market for marijuana products, they have grown rapidly into a multi-billion-dollar industry since 2018. Analysts have noted that these products appear to sell well in states that havent legalized recreational marijuana.

Some of these are reportedly extremely potent, Scoblete said, noting that the synthesized THC-O has been likened to a hallucinogenic, such as LSD. At the same time, it appears that businesses are synthesizing the tiny amount of delta-9 in legal hemp and creating fully synthetic marijuana products, Scoblete said.

The current Farm Bill runs to Sept. 30 and would need reauthorization to continue. A number of states have also regulated or restricted delta-8, which is already banned in 13 states, Panesso said.

A challenge surrounding hemp-derived products is the lack of research regarding their health impacts. The FDAs voluntary adverse event reporting system is one source of data, though, and it shows about 15 delta-8 reports per quarter.

There have been lawsuits filed over personal injury tied to cannabis products, but none of the delta-8 litigation Verisk has found to date involves claims of health harms; the allegations generally revolve around purity or product labeling. Late last year, a class action lawsuit was filed against a manufacturer alleging that its vapes contained delta-9 THC exceeding the federally allowable limit of 0.3% despite being marketed as delta-8, Verisk reported on the Emerging Issues section of its website.

A similar lawsuit was filed against another delta-8 pen and cartridge manufacturer by the same class action plaintiff in the same month, Verisk said.

Have A Look at Other Emerging Substances

Kratom-related deaths appear to be generating litigation against entities within the kratom supply chain, Scoblete said. One award last year totaled $11.6 million, and Verisk has identified another case in which plaintiffs are seeking more than $10 million in damages in wrongful death litigation. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, kratom is an herbal substance that can produce opioid- and stimulant-like effects.

Growing interest in microdosing psychedelic drugs has coincided with changing legal and policy attitudes in parts of the US. Policymakers in Oregon have established a regulated framework for psilocybin (the active chemical of magic mushrooms) services in the state, and psychedelics have been decriminalized in Oregon and Colorado, as well as in cities such as Detroit, Seattle and San Francisco.

More than three dozen psychedelic-related bills have been introduced across more than a dozen states since the start of this legislative session. Last year, the FDA declined to approve the use of MDMA for the treatment of PTSD, and last fall, communities across Oregon voted to scale back access to psilocybin.

Go Deeper

Watch the full webinar on the Verisk website.
COLUMBUS, Ohio  A young boy is in a hospital in extremely critical condition Sunday after he was attacked by two dogs, reports say.

WCMH Channel 4 reports the attack on the boy, who is younger than 10 years old, occurred in the citys North Linden neighborhood. WBNS Channel 10 reports an officer responding to the scene shot both dogs involved in the attack, killing one.

Another officer took the boy to Nationwide Childrens Hospital, WSYX Channel 6 reports.

Police say the surviving dog has been turned over to animal control, which is investigating the attack. The dogs did not belong to the boys family and reportedly had been running loose in the neighborhood.

No information was released on the breed of the dogs.
Trucks line up at the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip on Sunday, March 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Mohamed Arafat) AP

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Israel faced sharp criticism as it stopped the entry of all food and other supplies into Gaza on Sunday and warned of additional consequences for Hamas if a fragile ceasefire isnt extended.

Mediators Egypt and Qatar accused Israel of violating humanitarian law by using starvation as a weapon.

The ceasefires first phase saw a surge in humanitarian aid after months of growing hunger. Hamas accused Israel of trying to derail the next phase Sunday hours after its first phase had ended and called Israels decision to cut off aid a war crime and a blatant attack on a truce that took a year of negotiations before taking hold in January.

In the second phase, Hamas would release dozens of remaining hostages in return for an Israeli pullout from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire. Negotiations on the second phase were meant to start a month ago but havent begun.

Israel backs a new proposal to speed up the release of hostages

Israel said Sunday that a new U.S. proposal calls for extending the ceasefire through Ramadan  the Muslim holy month that began over the weekend  and the Jewish Passover holiday, which ends April 20.

Under that proposal, Hamas would release half the hostages on the first day and the rest when an agreement is reached on a permanent ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said. The militants currently hold 59 hostages, 35 of them believed to be dead.

National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes said the United States would support whatever decision Israel makes, without commenting on the new proposal. Netanyahu said Israel is fully coordinated with the Trump administration and the ceasefire will only continue as long as Hamas keeps releasing hostages.

The UN and others warn against aid cutoff

Saying the ceasefire has saved countless lives, the International Committee of the Red Cross said that any unraveling of the forward momentum created over the last six weeks risks plunging people back into despair.

U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher called Israels decision alarming, noting that international humanitarian law makes clear that aid access must be allowed.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to make every effort to prevent a return to hostilities in Gaza, and called for humanitarian aid to flow back into Gaza immediately and for the release of all hostages, said spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Five non-governmental groups asked Israels Supreme Court for an interim order barring the state from preventing aid from entering Gaza, claiming the move violates Israels obligations under international law: These obligations cannot be condition on political considerations.

The war has left most of Gazas population of over 2 million dependent on international aid. About 600 aid trucks had entered daily since the ceasefire began on Jan. 19, easing fears of famine raised by international experts.

But residents said prices shot up as word of the closure spread.

From the heavily destroyed Jabaliya urban refugee camp, Fayza Nassar said the closure would worsen dire conditions.

There will be famine and chaos, she said.

Hamas warned that any attempt to delay or cancel the ceasefire agreement would have humanitarian consequences for the hostages. The only way to free them is through the existing deal, the group said.

Families of hostages again pressed Israels government.

Postponing the negotiation on the deal for everyones (release) cant happen, Lishay Miran-Lavi, wife of hostage Omri Miran, said in Tel Aviv. Hostages dont have time to wait for an ideal deal.

Israel was accused of blocking aid throughout the war

Israel imposed a siege on Gaza in the wars opening days and only eased it under U.S. pressure. U.N. agencies and aid groups accused Israel of not facilitating enough aid during 15 months of war.

The International Criminal Court said there was reason to believe Israel had used starvation as a method of warfare when it issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu last year. The allegation is also central to South Africas case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.

Israel has denied the accusations. It says it has allowed in enough aid and blamed shortages on what it called the U.N.s inability to distribute it. It also accused Hamas of siphoning off aid  an allegation that Netanyahu repeated Sunday.

Kenneth Roth, former head of Human Rights Watch, said Israel as an occupying power has an absolute duty to facilitate humanitarian aid under the Geneva Conventions, and called Israels decision a resumption of the war-crime starvation strategy that led to the ICC warrant.

The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostage.

Israels offensive has killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. It says more than half of those killed were women and children. It does not specify how many of the dead were combatants.

Israeli bombardment pounded large areas of Gaza to rubble and displaced some 90% of the population.

___

Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writers Josh Boak and Ellen Knickmeyer in Washington, and Josef Federman in Jerusalem, contributed to this report.
Vivek Ramaswamy speaks before Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP

Rotunda Rumblings

Class conflict: Republican gubernatorial hopeful Vivek Ramaswamys argument in favor of merit pay for teachers  that Ohio is not attracting the very best educators  comes as President Donald Trump and his federal government efficiency initiative is targeting thousands of (in Trumps words) crooked and dishonest federal workers. As Jeremy Pelzer writes, critics of Ramaswamy  who co-chaired Trumps efficiency initiative until last month  say it shows how he and Trump are similarly out of touch. Ramaswamy himself and others argue hes actually trying to create unity in order to improve Ohio schools and reward good teachers.

Ohios tech gamble: Intels chip manufacturing plants in central Ohio wont open until 2030 at the earliest. News of another delay in the $28 billion megaproject broke Friday. The first factory was supposed to come online in 2025, and experts told Anna Staver its looking less and less likely Intel can open the New Albany site without help. The company has been struggling financially and its CEO resigned late last year. A partnership with a manufacturer based in Taiwan called TSMC is rumored to be in the works. Intel says its committed to the Ohio One operation.

DEI offices closed: Ohio State University has cut two offices dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion to comply with Trump executive orders. Sixteen positions will be eliminated. The U.S. Department of Education on Feb. 15 sent a letter to college administrators nationwide, saying that if racial diversity efforts dont wind down, they will lose funding. This has caused other Ohio schools  including Case Western Reserve University and Kent State and Cleveland State universities, to review programs, Laura Hancock reports.

War on drugs: A proposed recreational marijuana crackdown passed by the Ohio Senate last week would create new legal risk for adults who use cannabis, especially renters. As Jake Zuckerman reports, the legislation could turn marijuana-related lease violations into criminal charges, establish mandatory jail sentences for passengers who smoke or vape marijuana in a vehicle, and others.

No stalking: A bipartisan Ohio duo in the U.S. House of Representatives have reintroduced legislation that would prohibit use of personal tracking devices to track people without their consent, Sabrina Eaton writes. The "Stop Electronic Stalking Act" sponsored by Akron Democrat Emilia Sykes and Columbus Republican Mike Carey is similar to Ohio legislation that was recently signed into law by Governor Mike DeWine. Sykes introduced the state anti-stalking legislation when she served in Ohios House of Representatives before she was elected to Congress.

Finding religion: Vice President JD Vance acknowledged Pope Francis criticism of the Trump administrations crackdown on immigration, without responding to any of its specifics or to the pontiffs apparent criticism of Vances own deployment of Catholic tradition to justify such policies, the Associated Press reports. Vance, a Catholic convert, spoke Friday at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington. The Cincinnati Republican sought to downplay the controversy and said he and his family pray daily for Pope Francis during the 88-year-old pontiffs hospitalization for pneumonia and other health troubles.

Throwdown: Vance was at the center of an Oval Office confrontation Friday between Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The Associated Press has more on the fight that played out in front of reporters and cameras. Zelenskyy had expressed skepticism about Russias commitment to diplomacy. Vance, a vocal opponent of U.S. support for Ukraine, admonished Zelenskyy for not saying thank you to Trump during the meeting and told him with respect, I think its disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media. The three statesmen repeatedly talked over one another and pointed as reporters watched the scene unfold.

Ohio reaction: After the exchange, Republican U.S. Congress members from Ohio posted social media messages that praised Trumps approach. Finally we have a President who will speak the TRUTH and stand up against Washingtons endless wars, said U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno. President Zelensky did not help himself with the comments he made in the Oval Office today, added U.S. Sen. Jon Husted. Todays Oval Office meeting was a missed opportunity for Ukraine, not for President Trump, agreed U.S. Rep. Max Miller. Democratic U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman disagreed: Its a Russia First policy and their fixation with dictators over democracies is insane - and ultimately very, very dangerous.

To the Walz: When it comes to the scurrilous rumor that Haitians in Springfield were eating dogs and cats (they werent), 2024 Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz thinks he took the bait. Brooke Spurlock of the Dayton Daily News writes that Walz told a podcaster he got sucked into doing what Trump and Vance wanted  a conversation about immigration  and that his focus on the claims didnt do a damn bit of good electorally.

Shopping cart: The price of groceries is about to go up as Trumps tariffs take effect. Alexander Coolidge writes in the Cincinnati Enquirer that analysts expect tariffs on Mexico and Canada to hit Americans shopping carts, citing the $150 billion in food imports from foreign countries, half of which comes from our neighbors to the north and south.

Hub-bub: DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel were in Youngstown on Friday to launch Ohios fourth innovation hub, a $62 million project intended to bolster the areas aerospace and defense industry. As David Skolnick of the Youngstown Vindicator reports, the hub is being supported with more than $27 million in state funding and is anticipated to create up to 750 jobs in the next four years.

Work it: DeWine on Friday formally submitted the states request to the federal government to impose a work or study requirement on healthy adults younger than the age of 55 to qualify for Medicaid. This would be the first requirement in the history of the program, which provides health insurance for children, the disabled and low-income adults. Lawmakers directed Ohio to seek the federal waiver in the previous, two-year operating budget.

Full Disclosure

Here are five things we learned from the Feb. 17, 2024 ethics disclosure form filed by state Rep. Mark Sigrist, a Columbus-area Democrat, about his 2023 finances:

1. His income sources in 2023 included his salary as a Grove City Council member, a Honda pension, and retirement income from an IRA account.

2. He owns Phoenix Events LLC, which puts on charitable 5K runs/walks in Central Ohio

3. He neither owed nor was owed more than $1,000 at any point in 2023.

4. He reported owning no investments worth more than $1,000.

5. Sigrist also reported owning no real estate, though legislative candidates dont have to list their personal residence or property used for personal recreation.

On the Move

Vice President JD Vance is selling his house in Alexandria, Virginia, now that hes living in the Vice-Presidential residence on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory, Washingtonian reports. Zillow indicates its asking price is $1.7 million.

Straight from the Source

I would hope that all of the stories of women dying because of restrictive abortion laws (nationwide) would help people understand what these restrictive abortion laws do.

- State Rep. Anita Somani, a Columbus-area Democrat, speaking to the Ohio Capital Journal about a Democratic-backed bill that seeks to repeal Ohio abortion laws after voters enshrined abortion rights in the state constitution in 2023.

Capitol Letter is a daily briefing providing succinct, timely information for those who care deeply about the decisions made by state government. Subscribe to get Capitol Letter in your email box each weekday for free.
Asia-Pacific markets mostly rose Monday as investors awaited clarity on U.S. President Donald Trump's plans to impose tariffs this week on key trading partners.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick reportedly told Fox News on Sunday that the exact tariff that will be levied against Mexico and Canada starting Tuesday is still "fluid," which means it could be lower than the proposed 25%. He added that the additional 10% duty on China imports is "set."

Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 was up 1.7% to close at 37,785.47, while the broader Topix index advanced 1.77% to close at 2,729.56.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng index rose 0.44%, while Mainland China's CSI 300 closed closed 0.04% lower at 3,888.47.

Taiwan's Taiex index was down 1.29% to close at 22,756.25 after falling to its lowest level since early February.

Australia's S&P/ASX 200 was trading 0.9% higher to close at 8,245.7.

The country's S&P Global manufacturing purchasing manager's index reading for February came in at 50.4, similar to the previous month's 50.6 reading.

Elsewhere, China's Caixin/S&P Global manufacturing purchasing manager's index reading for February came in at 50.8, higher than the 50.3 estimated by Reuters and January's 50.1 reading.

Investors will be keeping a watch on Indian stocks after the South Asian economy expanded 6.2% from a year ago in its third fiscal quarter ended December, recovering from a seven-quarter low. The print is higher than the revised 5.6% growth in the July to September quarter.

South Korean markets were closed for a public holiday.
U.S. President Donald Trump 's escalating threats to impose tariffs on neighboring countries , on the European Union and on car manufacturers have hit the automotive industry hard. Shares of some of Europe's biggest automakers traded lower on Friday, extending sharp losses from the previous session after Trump floated the possibility of a 25% tariff rate on European cars and other goods. The announcement marked the latest in a series of trade measures that appear designed to rebalance the economic order in America's favor. Trump has previously said he intends to impose auto tariffs of around 25% from as early as April 2, adding that these duties could go "substantially higher" over the course of a year. It is not clear whether these measures would apply to all vehicles coming into the country, or if they'd be targeted toward specific countries. Analysts expect car levies to have a profound impact on the automotive industry, citing a heavy reliance on manufacturing operations across North America, particularly in Mexico, and complex global supply chains. "The general story is that all [carmakers] are highly globalized and so it will affect them all," Rico Luman, senior sector economist for transport and logistics at Dutch bank ING, told CNBC over video call. "It is a matter of raising costs in the end because it is almost unthinkable that all of the production will shift to the U.S.," Luman said. Who will suffer the least? Trump has repeatedly raised the threat of tariffs since coming into office, seeking to make levies on foreign goods a core part of his economic agenda. Alongside the prospect of U.S. tariffs on the EU and, separately, duties on automakers, Trump said last week that his proposed 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada would come into force on March 4. China, which already faces 10% tariffs on its products, is expected to be charged with an additional 10% tariff on the same date. ING's Luman said elevated uncertainty about the rollout of U.S. tariffs was making it challenging for auto executives to make long-term and typically costly strategic decisions. "It's extremely difficult to look ahead a couple of quarters from here and that makes it extremely difficult for management boards to navigate the future," Luman said. "The result of this all may also be trending down confidence on the consumer side, so it may also affect the demand side in the end. It's not a bright story in that respect," he added. "There is quite some pain here in the automotive [sector] and it will take a very long time until all the cars are produced domestically, if you like to end up there. So, who will suffer the least? That's a good one, [but] I can't really say at this point I'm afraid," Luman said. Market share challenges Some European car manufacturers have announced significant investments in U.S. production. Germany's crisis-stricken Volkswagen , for example, has said it plans to make additional investments in the U.S., seeking to double its market share in the country. Stellantis , meanwhile, has plans focused on increasing market share and growing sales volume in the U.S., according to an internal memo. It is set to invest more than $5 billion in the region. The multi-billion dollar investment was announced in late January, days after Stellantis Chairman John Elkann met Trump ahead of the U.S. president's inauguration. The multinational conglomerate, which recently posted a 70% drop in full-year profit, owns household names including Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Chrysler and Peugeot. Rella Suskin, equity analyst at Morningstar, said Trump's levy threats were likely a negotiating tactic aimed at equalizing U.S.-EU auto tariffs. She warned, however, that higher duties for the industry could significantly impact the export strategies of some companies. "European automakers may face challenges in maintaining market share, as most would struggle to pass such tariffs onto consumers or absorb the cost themselves given already thin margins," Suskin said. "This could prompt further investments in US manufacturing capacity, as some automakers, such as Volkswagen and Stellantis, have begun doing. However, brands like Audi and Porsche may face added vulnerability due to their limited US-based production," she continued. "For automakers like BMW and Mercedes , who already have substantial US production, higher tariffs could influence their export strategies, potentially reducing productivity and limiting export revenues for the US itself if the EU were to retaliate," Suskin said. In response, a spokesperson for Mercedes told CNBC that a general trend toward protectionism will have "negative economic consequences for all stakeholders involved." The firm said it is closely monitoring further developments, but declined to comment further on any speculation regarding tariff levels. CNBC has also contacted BMW for comment.
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LONDON  The European Union is expected to announce "concrete" measures on boosting defense financing this week, sources told CNBC, as Europe and the United States clash over support for Ukraine. The 27 EU leaders will gather in Brussels on Thursday for a meeting dedicated to defense and support for Ukraine. It follows two particularly tense moments in U.S.-Europe relations: Vice President JD Vance's speech in Munich in mid-February when he criticized European leaders; and the on-the-record clash between the U.S. administration and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office on Friday. European leaders are trying not to alienate President Donald Trump after he criticized Zelenskyy for "gambling" over a potential World War III. At the same time, Europeans know they have to take immediate action to ensure that Ukraine continues to receive the support it needs  and any further aggression from Russian President Vladimir Putin is prevented. "There will be intense work in the coming days," an EU official, who did not want to be named due to the sensitivity of the discussions but is part of the preparations for Thursday's meeting, told CNBC Monday. The same official said the aim is to announce "concrete deliverables" on the financing of defense. Traders will be watching the talks between EU officials closely. The European Stoxx Aerospace and Defense index has risen almost 23% in the year to date as investors bet on spending hikes, and was over 6% higher in Monday morning trade.

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Trump has often criticized European nations for failing to spend 2% of their GDP on defense, as stipulated by NATO rules. Since Trump's first term, several countries have increased their defense spending and the latest NATO figures indicate that 23 of the 32 members are expected to have achieved the 2% target in 2024. Now, many NATO members are looking to increase spending even more, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte telling CNBC in February that the figure will have to be "much more than than 2%." Trump, meanwhile, has called for 5% of GDP as the NATO contribution target.

How to spend more on defense

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced in February that EU fiscal rules will be updated to allow countries to spend more on defense without being constrained by specific debt and deficit targets. The unnamed EU official told CNBC that the next announcement will go even further. "We are looking at additional funding for defense at the EU level, including through flexibility in the use of structural funds and adaptation of the EIB mandate," the official said. The European Investment Bank, which is targeting 95 billion euros ($99.26 billion) in investments in 2025, is currently constrained to only financing dual-use defense projects, which means they have to have both civil and military purposes. A second EU official, who did not want to be named due to the sensitivity of the talks, confirmed to CNBC Monday that Von der Leyen is expected to present "concrete measures" in terms of defense financing in the coming days. These will then be discussed by EU leaders on Thursday.

Ukrainian servicemen drive Soviet-made T-64 tanks in the Sumy region, near the border with Russia, on August 11, 2024, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Russia on August 11 acknowledged Ukrainian troops had pierced deep into the Kursk border region in an offensive that a top official in Ukraine said aimed to "destabilise" Russia and "stretch" its forces. Roman Pilipey | Afp | Getty Images
European leaders pose for a family photograph at Lancaster House during the European leaders' summit on March 2, 2025 in London, England. Wpa Pool | Getty Images News | Getty Images

European allies put forward their own peacekeeping plans for Ukraine at the weekend, as well as attempting to position the region as a mediator between Kyiv and the White House after the blistering public attack on Ukraine's president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in the Oval Office last Friday. European leaders met in London on Sunday for a hastily convened summit that aimed to show a united front regarding Ukraine, and to present proposals aiming to keep Europe relevant to, and in the middle of, any future peace talks. Europe has been largely sidelined in such discussions in recent weeks, amid a rapprochement between Russia and the U.S. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said after the gathering on Sunday that a "number" of allies had signed up to a "coalition of the willing" that was ready to commit peacekeeping troops to Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

The U.K. insisted that the plan would be presented to the U.S. and that European allies would work to get Washington's support for its proposals, which it said offered Ukraine much-coveted security guarantees. "Through my discussions over recent days, we've agreed that the U.K., France and others will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting. Then we'll discuss that plan with the United States and take it forward together," Starmer told the BBC on Sunday.

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Several media reports suggested that Starmer and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, had promoted the idea of an initial one-month truce between Ukraine and Russia to test if Russia was committed to any future peace deal. CNBC has contacted Downing Street and the Elysee Palace for comment. Europe has been scrambling to assert its role in future peacemaking, after U.S. and Russian officials began talks two weeks ago, which they said were aimed at laying the groundwork for discussions to end the war. Meanwhile, tensions between Washington and Kyiv have risen to a boiling point, culminating in a spectacular public dressing-down of Ukraine's Zelenskyy last Friday by U.S. officials, including President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. Amid heated remarks, the U.S. politicians accused Kyiv's leadership of being ungrateful for U.S. aid and of "gambling with World War III," which Zelenskyy denied.

Wait-and-see mode

Analysts say there is currently little detail on Europe's proposals to achieve a lasting peace in Ukraine and scant understanding of which countries would be involved in such efforts. Russia has refused to countenance the idea of European troops on Ukrainian soil, while the U.S. insists that no American troops would be deployed to the country as peacekeepers. Gesine Weber, fellow at the German Marshall Fund, told CNBC on Monday that the latest summit showed Europeans now really see the need to take the lead on support for Ukraine, "especially as tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine could not be higher." "We're now basically in a wait-and-see position as to what extent Washington can be brought on board with this plan that they're presented with," she told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe."

European allies have struggled to reach a general consensus on military aid for Ukraine during its three-year war with Russia, as well as what their future role might be in the country once the conflict has ended, given the Continent's broader security needs. Ukraine is currently part of neither the NATO military alliance, nor the European Union. European allies have recently repeatedly discussed the need to increase defense spending, aiming to signal to Trump that they  and NATO  are worth persevering with after persistent criticism from the U.S. that continental allies are overreliant on the States for protection. The U.S. and Russia have not yet publicly reacted to the latest meeting of European allies, although Trump posted on Truth Social on Sunday that "we should spend less time worrying about Putin" and more time concerned about crime, "so that we don't end up like Europe."

U.S. President Donald Trump attends a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg ahead of the NATO summit in Watford, in London, Britain, December 3, 2019. Kevin Lamarque | Reuters
Given the unpredictability surrounding the tariffs, there's no telling what will happen in the coming days, yet the warning lights are still flashing for Telsa, which has already seen its stock drop and sales tumble over the past two months. Analysts point not only to looming tariffs as the culprit but also growing animus among foreign consumers toward Musk and his increasingly far-right political persona.

European analysts expect the auto industry to be hit hard , citing cross-border North America manufacturing operations and complex global supply chains involving Mexico. "The general story is that all [carmakers] are highly globalized and so it will affect them all," Rico Luman, senior sector economist for transport and logistics at Dutch bank ING, told CNBC over video call.

Trump is now also considering 25% tariffs on cars and other goods imported by European Union nations, set to launch on April 2. Trump had previously hinted at putting reciprocal levies on EU nations, which imported nearly $600 billion worth of goods to the U.S. last year. That news elicited a strong rebuke from European leaders, who had been secretly planning retaliatory measures since last summer in anticipation of just such action.

Earlier in February, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said she was working on "tariff and non-tariff measures in defense of Mexico's interests," without specifying what U.S. goods would be targeted. This week Trump also doubled his 10% tariff on China, effective immediately, a move the U.S. government has said Mexico is willing to match as a way to ease tariffs against its own economy.

Justin Trudeau, Canada's outgoing prime minister, announced 25% reciprocal tariffs on American goods, including Teslas and other U.S.-made electric vehicles. Ontario premier Doug Ford said that his provincial government would be "ripping up" its $68-million contract with Starlink , Musk's satellite internet company and part of his rocket enterprise, SpaceX. Chrystia Freeland, a Liberal Party member running to replace Trudeau, proposed placing a 100% tariff on Teslas. Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly told CTV News that the government stands ready to retaliate with its $155-billion tariff plan, should Trump proceed on Tuesday.

The rapid response from Canadian officials when Trump first threatened the tariffs illustrates the risks Tesla and the rest of the Musk industrial complex faces.

The planned 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico  America's two biggest trading partners  were suspended for 30 days by the White House after both countries made concessions and the U.S. stock market nosedived. But the tariffs are now back, scheduled for implementation on Tuesday, according to Trump.

With President Donald Trump planning to escalate his trade war this week with new tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, the outsized role that Elon Musk is playing as one of the president's closest advisors and leader of the Department of Government Efficiency is jeopardizing Tesla and other companies in his diverse business empire.

In the meantime, publicly owned Tesla is the most vulnerable of Musk's entities  also including SpaceX, X, xAI, Neuralink and The Boring Co., all privately owned  to other nations' tit-for-tat tariffs. Indeed, in an earnings call at the end of January, Telsa CFO Vaibhav Taneja told analysts: "There's a lot of uncertainty around tariffs. Over the years, we've tried to localize our supply chain in every market, but we are still very reliant on parts from across the world for all our businesses. Therefore, the imposition of tariffs, which is very likely, will have an impact on our business and profitability."

Already, Trump's across-the-globe 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum set for April 2, metals that are crucial to Tesla and other American EV manufacturers. Canada and Mexico are among the leading sources of U.S. steel imports, and Canada is the nation's largest supplier of aluminum.

"All electric vehicle makers are going to feel the pressure from those [tariffs], because they use way more steel and aluminum than a conventional combustion-engine car," said Marc Busch, professor of international business diplomacy at Georgetown University. "So I have no doubt that this will get [Musk's] attention, and I can imagine that that would be an added political pressure benefit in terms of retaliatory strikes by the European Union, Canada and others."

Tesla's sold in the U.S. are assembled at its factories in Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas, but various components are sourced from China, Canada and Mexico, the latter providing 15% of parts in the Model Y. Telsa is leading an effort to block any increase in the current 25% tariffs on Chinese graphite, an essential component in the lithium-ion batteries. Trump is also looking into new tariffs on copper, another key metal in EV production.

The two states importing the most lithium-ion batteries from China are California and Texas, both key states for Tesla. Since 2023, Tesla has brought in over 12,000 twenty-foot equivalent containers (TEUs) of the batteries between the two states, according to Import Genius. That's at least 100 million lithium batteries for Texas and California alone. A single Cybertruck has more than 1,300 lithium-ion battery cell components, according to published estimates.

What Wall Street analysts think about Tesla 'buyers' strike'

Telsa's year-to-date sales have already been cratering throughout Europe. The plunge ranged from an 18.2% dip in the UK to a 75.4% meltdown in Spain. Sales in Germany, where Tesla operates a gigafactory, plummeted nearly 60%.

Besides increased competition in Europe for EVs from Volkswagen, BMW and BYD, Telsa appears to be suffering from the Musk's coziness with Trump and increased meddling in other nation's politics. For instance, ahead of Germany's elections on Feb. 23, Musk had urged voters to back a candidate in the far-right party, the Alternative for Germany, known as the AfD. Musk has also declared his support for the anti-immigrant party in the UK and criticized Prime Minister Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party.

Jacob Falkencrone, global head of investment strategy at Denmark's Saxo Bank, recently wrote that Tesla's foreign sales declines were due in part to "growing scrutiny of CEO Elon Musk, whose influence  once an undeniable asset  may now be doing more harm than good."

Tesla's stock has had a volatile ride, Falkencrone wrote, rising over 50% following Trump's election win, but then sinking 25% from its December peak as weak sales data from China and Europe rattled investors, making it the weakest stock in the so-called Magnificent Seven tech companies this year.

Another analysis, based on a survey by Stifel earlier this month, said that Tesla's trailing four-week net favorability rating was nearing all-time lows. "We believe the negative downturn in consumers' perception of Elon Musk is captured in our proprietary survey data out of our Stifel Think Tank Group and potentially results in a headwind to sales," the report said.

On Feb. 26, in a note to clients, Barclays analyst Dan Levy said that he foresees further impediments to Tesla shares. "Our best explanation is that there is an unwind of the powerful run that (Tesla stock) had last fall post the U.S. elections, which reflected a combination of sharp euphoria and technical factors  with fundamentals largely dismissed," Levy wrote. Although he doubts whether Tesla's can boost profit margins in the first quarter of this year, Levy is holding out hope that the launch of its robotaxi service in June could be a spark.

One more headwind that Musk might encounter is reaction in China to the newly imposed 20% tariffs, which could trigger not only retaliatory tariffs that impact Tesla and SpaceX but also antitrust investigations. Chinese regulators are already looking into Google's operations there, and X could get swept up in similar scrutiny.

Other countries hit with new tariffs are already employing that punitive strategy against Musk's companies. X has been found in breach of Europe's Digital Services Act, even as the social media platform faces other complaints related to the EU's General Data Protection Regulation, as well as election interference.

"You could imagine that the genie is out of the bottle on that score," Busch said about regulatory retributions, "and that in some capitals they're considering doing exactly the same thing with respect to the services that are provided by Musk's companies. And the last thing that he needs is intense regulatory scrutiny and potential fetters on his operations with respect to delivering services in those jurisdictions."

Some on Wall Street are making the case that EVs will soon be the past for Tesla anyway. Morgan Stanley, in issuing an $800 share price bull case for Tesla this week, said the recent "buyers' strike" hitting sales are "emblematic of a company in the transition from an automotive 'pure play' to a highly diversified

play on AI and robotics."

"While the journey may be volatile and non-linear, we believe 2025 will be a year where investors will continue to appreciate and value these existing and nascent industries of embodied AI where we believe

Tesla has established a material competitive advantage," wrote Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas.

Within the U.S, regulatory regime, Musk has a lot to gain. In the U.S., 11 different U.S. agencies have more than 32 continuing investigations, pending complaints or enforcement actions into Musk's six companies, according to a review by The New York Times. They include safety violations at SpaceX by the Federal Aviation Administration, a lawsuit against Musk by the Securities and Exchange Commission and hundreds of complaints about Tesla made to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which is being gutted by the Trump administration and DOGE specifically.

Tesla could ultimately come out ahead with Musk wielding his unfettered authority to reshape federal agencies and departments to make investigations into his businesses disappear, while tariffs on foreign-made EVs imported could harm Telsa's competitors and improve its market dominance in the U.S. Musk and his businesses have already received at least $38 billion in government contracts, loans, subsidies and tax credits, and if conflict-of-interest rules don't get in the way, additional deals could be granted.
A version of this article first appeared in CNBC's Inside Wealth newsletter with Robert Frank, a weekly guide to the high-net-worth investor and consumer. Sign up to receive future editions, straight to your inbox. Melinda French Gates has committed $2 billion to promote women's rights and economic mobility. In 2015, she set up her family office, Pivotal Ventures, to support these causes not only through philanthropy but also through investing in women-led funds and startups that serve women. Those investments are managed by Erin Harkless Moore, who joined Pivotal Ventures in 2020 from investment advisory Cambridge Associates. "We want to prove that investments in women can generate best-in-class returns and performance while advancing social process alongside that," Harkless Moore told CNBC. Pivotal Ventures is in good company. Though some traditional asset managers have been retreating from impact investing amid attacks by Republican lawmakers , family offices haven't shied away. Over the past 10 years, family offices have consistently increased their impact investments, which aim to achieve social or environmental goals while generating a profit. The category amounted to 56% of overall family office deal volume in the first half of 2024, per PwC . Among family offices that make impact investments, renewable energy, climate solutions and social equality are the top three most popular causes, according to a survey by RBC Wealth Management and Campden Wealth. Harkless Moore said the more recent diversity, equity and inclusion crackdown by the Trump administration has led some to wrongly assume that Pivotal Ventures has changed its stance. Since January, Pivotal Ventures has invested in two startups: Little Otter, a mental health app for families, and Millie, a maternity clinic in Berkeley, California. "We've had meetings where people were like, 'Well, we assumed you weren't investing anymore,'" said Harkless Moore, managing director of investments at Pivotal. "We're open for business. We have capital to deploy." These private investment firms can afford to hold the line as they only answer to their wealthy founders and aren't subject to the same scrutiny as registered investment advisors. Other family offices with impact portfolios include Laurene Powell Jobs' Emerson Collective, which supports a slew of causes such as women's health through venture investments. Blue Haven Initiative, founded by Hyatt heir Liesel Pritzker Simmons and her husband Ian, backs fund and startups that give low-income populations access to capital. Pivotal Ventures manages the wealth of French Gates, the former wife of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates . In addition to backing startups, Pivotal Ventures has invested in about 20 funds with some $5 billion in assets under management combined. Harkless Moore started her two-decade career in 2005 as an analyst at Goldman Sachs. After earning an MBA from Harvard Business School, she joined Cambridge Associates in 2012 where she was a managing director and advised family offices and private foundations on their investments. "I wanted to kind of harmonize my personal values, the world I wanted to see, with the investing that I was doing," she said of her decision to join Pivotal Ventures. Harkless Moore acknowledged the commonly held notion that investing in women means worse financial returns  but she disagreed. She cited a PitchBook study that reported that female-founded companies exit faster at a lower burn rate. Pivotal Ventures' criteria for evaluating investments is largely similar to other institutional investors, she said, and seeks to eliminate bias rather than lower the bar. For instance, it doesn't disqualify general partners who aren't heavily invested in their own funds  a common checklist item for some institutional backers. "I want our incentives to be aligned with our fund managers," she said, "but if you don't come from wealth or haven't had a substantial exit and amassed a lot of money, where are you going to find several million dollars to put in your fund?" Pivotal Ventures also prioritizes early-stage investments in order to make it easier for emerging founders and funds to land other investors. This means actively seeking out entrepreneurs rather than relying on inbound pitches. "A lot of times this business is about, 'Oh, you know, I need a warm intro,'" she said. "We try to make ourselves as accessible as possible." Harkless Moore described the anti-DEI rhetoric as challenging and frustrating. However, she said women-led investing is here to stay. "I'm a believer in capitalism and markets," she said. "Even with some of this pushback and rhetoric, capital is still going to flow to the ideas." "I think that's where our strategy, us being consistent, staying the course, being disciplined, not deviating from our thesis, is incredibly important in moments like these," she added.
Satya Nadella, chief executive officer of Microsoft Corp., speaks during the company event on AI technologies in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Microsoft is giving its health-care artificial intelligence tools a makeover.

The company on Monday unveiled a new voice-activated AI assistant that combines capabilities from its dictation solution, Dragon Medical One, and ambient listening solution, DAX Copilot, into one tool.

"Dragon Copilot" will be able to help doctors quickly pull information from medical sources and automatically draft clinical notes, referral letters, post-visit summaries and more, according to the company. It's Microsoft's latest effort to help health-care workers cut down their daunting clerical workloads, which are a major source of burnout in the industry.

Clinicians spend nearly 28 hours a week on administrative tasks like documentation, for instance, according to an October study from Google Cloud.

"Through this technology, clinicians will have the ability to focus on the patient rather than the computer, and this is going to lead to better outcomes and ultimately better health care for all," Dr. David Rhew, global chief medical officer at Microsoft, said Thursday in a briefing with reporters.

Microsoft acquired Nuance Communications, the company behind Dragon Medical One and DAX Copilot, for about $16 billion in 2021. As a result, Microsoft has become a major player in the fiercely competitive AI scribing market, which has exploded in popularity as health systems have been looking for tools to help address burnout.

AI scribes like DAX Copilot allow doctors to draft clinical notes in real time as they consensually record their visits with patients. DAX Copilot has been used in more than 3 million patient visits across 600 health-care organizations in the last month, Microsoft said.

Other companies like Abridge, which has raised more than $460 million according to PitchBook, and Suki, which has raised nearly $170 million, have developed similar scribing tools. Microsoft's updated interface could help it stand out from its competitors.

Dragon Copilot is accessible through a mobile app, browser or desktop, and it integrates directly with several different electronic health records, the company said.

Clinicians will still be able to draft clinical notes with the assistant like they could with DAX Copilot, but they'll be able to use natural language to edit their documentation and prompt it further, Kenn Harper, general manager of Dragon products at Microsoft, told reporters on the call.

For instance, a doctor could ask questions like, "Was the patient experiencing ear pain?" or "Can you add the ICD-10 codes to the assessment and plan?" Physicians can also ask broader treatment-related queries such as, "Should this patient be screened for lung cancer?" and get an answer with links to resources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

WellSpan Health, which treats patients across 250 locations and nine hospitals throughout central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland, has been testing out Dragon Copilot with a group of clinicians in recent months.

One of those clinicians is Dr. David Gasperack, chief medical officer of primary care services at WellSpan. It's still early days, but Gasperack told CNBC the assistant is easy to use and has been more accurate than Microsoft's existing offerings.

"We've been asked more and more over time to do more administrative tasks that pull us away from the patient relationship and medical decision making," Gasperack said. "This allows us to get back to that so we can focus on the patient, truly think about what's needed."

Microsoft declined to share the cost of Dragon Copilot but said the pricing structure is "competitive." It will be easy for existing customers to upgrade to the new offering, the company added.

Dragon Copilot will be generally available in the U.S. and Canada starting in May, Microsoft said. The roll out will expand to the U.K., the Netherlands, France and Germany in the months following.

"Our goal remains to restore the joy of practicing medicine for clinicians and provide a better experience for patients globally," Rhew said.

Watch: What it's like to have a doctor visit with AI
BARCELONA  Europe needs its own version of Elon Musk's so-called Department of Government Efficiency, Deutsche Telekom CEO Tim Hottges said Monday as he made an impassioned plea for the region to cut red tape on the telecommunications industry.

Europe is falling behind peers such as the U.S. and China when it comes to key technological innovations such as artificial intelligence and next-generation 5G networks, Hottges said during a panel event at the Mobile World Congress event in Barcelona.

"What Europe needs is a DOGE," Hottges told the audience, speaking alongside Vodafone's Margherita Della Valle, Orange's Christel Heydemann and Telefonica's Marc Murtra.

"We need an initiative to cut down this bureaucracy and this administration here, because there are tens of thousands of people sitting there and administrating our industries," he added.

The Trump administration only announced plans to launch DOGE last year. The initiative, which is led by billionaire Tesla boss Elon Musk, was tasked with slashing federal government administration costs.

DOGE isn't actually a government agency  and its leader Musk is not an elected official. Since its establishment, DOGE has looked to slash spending at federal government agencies, making huge job cuts at departments for defense, education and energy.

Hottges said that he's counted all of the regulators Deutsche Telekom deals with  including watchdogs for media, cybersecurity and privacy  and that overall number came to around 270.

He added that, unlike other European telcos, Deutsche Telekom is able to source most of its revenues from the U.S. via its majority stake in American wireless network T-Mobile.
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 31: Federal Communications Commissioner Brendan Carr speaks during a House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Hearing titled Connecting America: Oversight of the FCC, on Capitol Hill on Thursday, March 31, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

BARCELONA - Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr on Monday vowed to defend the interests of America's technology companies against "excessive" European regulation as he urged for a "level and fair playing field."

Speaking in front of an audience of tech industry leaders and analysts at the Mobile World Congress conference in Barcelona, Carr said the European Union's tech rules have been perceived by U.S. tech giants as "excessive" and "incompatible" with American values.

He referred specifically to the EU's Digital Services Act, a landmark piece of regulation from the bloc that aims to tackle illegal and harmful content online.

"We're returning to our first amendment roots, where we're returning to our free speech tradition," Carr said, adding that there was a sense that people's right to free speech online was something that has eroded since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021.

"From President [Donald] Trump to me, across the government, we are encouraging our technology companies to stop the censorship we saw the last couple of years," Carr said.
Nvidia investors on Monday were hit with a barrage of headlines about the company's geopolitical challenges  some good, others not so good. The uncertainty sank the Club stock again as a broader wave of concern also slammed the overall market. Nvidia is conducting tests on Intel's new manufacturing process called 18A, Reuters reported Monday. Club holding Broadcom is also said to be kicking the tires at Intel. All three companies are headquartered in Silicon Valley. The report underscores Nvidia's stated desire to work with more manufacturing partners, which could deliver competition benefits and diversify its supply chain as geopolitical concerns mount among investors. Intel , an iconic yet struggling American tech pioneer, could use a win, too. Intel is both a chip designer, like Nvidia, and a chip manufacturer, like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing . Intel has problems on both fronts. It has fallen well behind industry leader TSMC in producing cutting-edge chips. On the design side, it has also failed to ride the artificial intelligence chip wave, which has turbocharged Nvidia sales, profits, and market value. Intel is counting on its current production process to narrow the manufacturing gap, with the hopes of following it up with a next-generation technology that would gain further ground on TSMC, which is the go-to manufacturer of Nvidia's AI chips. As Intel leans into a third-party manufacturing business  referred to as "foundry" services  after historically producing only its in-house designed products, potentially securing a commitment from AI leader Nvidia would be significant. The Reuters report made clear that it's early in the test process, and there are no guarantees the results will be up to Nvidia's liking. In September, Reuters reported that Broadcom was disappointed with Intel tests . Unlike Intel, the likes of Broadcom, Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices are what's known as "fabless" chip companies: They design the processors and then rely on third-party manufacturing companies to "fabricate" them in specialized factories. Nvidia has expressed support for widening its base of manufacturing partners. At a UBS conference in November 2023, CFO Colette Kress was asked directly if Nvidia would ever consider using Intel's foundry services. "TSMC has been a great one. As you know, we also use Samsung today. Would we love a third one? Sure. We would love a third one," Kress said at the time. "Keep in mind there are other ones that may come to the U.S. TSMC in the U.S. may be an option for us as well. Not necessarily different but, again, in terms of a different region. Nothing that stops us from potentially adding another foundry." The upshot of working Nvidia working with Intel would be two-fold. For starters, TSMC's dominant position in making the most advanced chips  known in the industry as "leading edge"  has raised competition concerns. Indeed, an analyst on TSMC's earnings call in October asked executives how they prepared for antitrust risk given the Taiwan-based company's "near monopoly" status. TSMC chief executive C.C. Wei responded by saying its pricing strategy is designed to ensure its customers can also be successful, and it's true that TSMC has built its lead by being a well-run company that delivers mutually beneficial innovation. Still, it would benefit chip designers like Nvidia to have a viable leading-edge alternative to TSMC to enhance competition in the marketplace. For Nvidia, the other benefit to working with Intel, also based in California, is tied to geopolitics and supply chain diversification  a dynamic that Jim Cramer explored in his Sunday column for Club subscribers . This is more closely aligned with Washington's efforts to build up domestic chip manufacturing, which began in earnest with the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act . The legislation earmarked billions of dollars for Intel, TSMC and other chip manufacturers to support their efforts to build and run factories in the U.S. At the moment, TSMC's most advanced foundries are currently located in its home of Taiwan, the democratically governed island that China claims as its own. That concentration exposes Nvidia to risk if the Chinese government were to step up its aggression toward Taiwan beyond the frequent military drills it conducts around the island off its southeastern coast. Nvidia investors have generally understood this risk  but in this week's column, Jim argued that President Donald Trump 's embrace of Russia in negotiations to end the war in Ukraine heightens the uncertainty about how the U.S. would respond if China were to encroach on Taiwan's sovereignty. On the campaign trail last summer, Trump criticized Taiwan and said it "should pay us for defense." The good news on this front is that TSMC  as Kress' quote above referenced  has established a manufacturing presence in Arizona, with one plant starting high-volume production late last year and at least two more fabs on the way that will produce more advanced chips than the first. On Monday, TSMC announced at the White House a plan to invest another $100 billion in the U.S. , on top of the $65 billion already committed, over the next four years. That should create more capacity that Nvidia could tap into down the road. "It's a matter of economic security. It's also a matter of national security for us, and at the same time, Mr. Wei will be able to diversify and have a tremendous presence in another place, in a very safe place," Trump said Monday. For his part, Wei referenced the company's American customers, which in addition to Nvidia include Apple , AMD, Qualcomm , and Broadcom. "They all support TSMC's manufacturing in the U.S. Without their support, we probably cannot make" these investments, the CEO added. The unfortunate news is that Nvidia's geopolitical problems extend beyond its reliance on Taiwanese facilities, and the prospect of tighter rules on AI chip exports to China is an overhang on the stock alongside broader trade policy uncertainty that's weighed on Wall Street. NVDA YTD mountain Nvidia YTD It's manifesting again Monday, as shares were falling about 9%, wiping out their gains Friday and then some. Monday's decline in Nvidia shares accelerated when the boarder stock market took a leg down after Trump confirmed Mexican and Canadian tariffs will go into effort Tuesday. The stock is now nearly 19% below its recent closing high of $140.11 a share on Feb. 20, with a significant chunk of those losses coming Thursday despite reporting strong earnings the prior night. While strong, Nvidia's guidance wasn't as robust as investors have come to expect during the AI boom, and Jim believes short-term options activity exacerbated the move to the downside. Calls for tougher export restrictions on Nvidia's AI chips grew in late January after Chinese startup DeepSeek emerged on the scene with claims of a lower-cost, more efficient AI model. In response to rules implemented by the Biden administration in recent years, Nvidia created a made-for-China AI chip called the H20 that is less capable than what it sells to customers in the U.S. and other parts of the world. The U.S. is reportedly looking into whether DeepSeek was somehow able to get access to more powerful versions of Nvidia chips than the H20, which comes amid broader concerns about whether Washington's curbs have been as successful as hoped . More recently, officials in Singapore charged three people in an investigation into whether server suppliers were misled about who would be using the hardware. The servers at the heart of the case may contain Nvidia chips, Reuters reported Monday. Nvidia has said it complies with all U.S. export rules. On last week's earnings call, executives said the company's revenue tied to China is about half of where it was before the controls kicked in more than two years ago. "Absent any change in regulations, we believe that China shipments will remain roughly at the current percentage," Kress said. "The market in China for data center solutions remains very competitive. We will continue to comply with export controls while serving our customers." The bottom line is that Nvidia is wise to be exploring whether Intel can become a manufacturing partner, even as TSMC makes encouraging moves to expand in the U.S. However, with the export control overhang remaining significant, it's far too early to say the coast is clear on Nvidia's geopolitical battles. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long NVDA, AAPL, and AVGO. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang holds a Blackwell GeForce RTX 50 Series GPU (L) and a RTX 5000 laptop as he delivers a keynote address at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 6, 2025.

Alarm bells went off in 2024 when Singapore unexpectedly emerged as Nvidia's second-largest revenue source. The disclosure fueled widespread speculation that Nvidia's artificial intelligence chips were being channeled to China.

Those concerns intensified in January after China's DeepSeek burst onto the international AI scene due to the sophistication and reported cost-effectiveness of its model. DeepSeek's AI is trained on Nvidia's graphics processing units despite export restrictions designed to keep the technology out of China.

Singapore has been working to dismantle a shadow network trafficking Nvidia's cutting-edge AI chips, and late last week, authorities there detained three people on charges of deliberately misrepresenting the final destination of U.S.-manufactured servers, likely containing Nvidia's highly sought-after chips.

Singapore's Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam revealed Monday that servers from Dell and Super Micro Computer were shipped to Malaysia, raising the critical question: Was Malaysia truly the final destination?

Nvidia declined to provide comment on any of these developments.

Nvidia shares tumbled almost 8% on Monday and are now down 14% in 2025, a slide that's pushed the company's market cap below $3 trillion. Super Micro shares fell 11% on Monday, and Dell's stock was down about 6%.

While Singapore has firmly rejected allegations of serving as a conduit to China, Nvidia highlighted a crucial distinction in what it means to be a customer in its annual report filed last week.

Singapore accounted for 18% of Nvidia's total revenue, approximately $24 billion, in the fiscal year ended Jan. 28, based on "customer billing location," but less than 2% of revenue, about $473 million, in terms of products shipped to the country.

"Customers use Singapore to centralize invoicing while our products are almost always shipped elsewhere," Nvidia said in its annual report.

The arrests in Singapore demonstrate that a sophisticated network of resellers continues to operate despite increasing scrutiny.

Analysts at Mizuho warn that any comprehensive ban on Nvidia chip exports to China could eliminate $4 billion to $5 billion from Nvidia's projected revenue for this fiscal year. The company said on its fourth-quarter earnings call that data center sales in China as a percentage of total data center revenue "remained well below levels seen on the onset of export controls."

As digital borders harden between East and West, silicon smugglers may find new routes. But the race for AI dominance ensures this high-stakes game will continue, with implications far beyond corporate earnings.

WATCH: CNBC's full interview with Chinatalk podcast's Jordan Schneider and MCC Global's Michelle Caruso-Cabrera
Servers used in a fraud case that Singapore announced last week were supplied by U.S. firms and may have contained Nvidia's advanced chips, a government minister said on Monday.

Servers used in a fraud case that Singapore announced last week were supplied by U.S. firms and may have contained Nvidia's advanced chips, a government minister said on Monday.

Singapore last week charged three men with fraud in a case local media linked to the movement of Nvidia's AI chips from the city-state to Chinese artificial intelligence firm DeepSeek.

Broadcaster Channel News Asia said it understood the cases were linked to the alleged movement of Nvidia chips from Singapore to be used by DeepSeek, without identifying its source.

Singapore's Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam told reporters on Monday that the servers involved in the case were supplied by Dell Technologies and Super Micro Computer before they were sent to Malaysia.

"Whether Malaysia was the final destination ... we do not know for certain at this point," he said, adding the authorities were investigating the case independently after an anonymous tip-off.

He also said Singapore has asked the U.S. authorities if the servers contained U.S. export control items, and told them it would work with them in any joint investigation.

The United States is investigating if DeepSeek, the Chinese company whose AI model's performance rocked the tech world in January, has been using U.S. chips that are not allowed to be shipped to China, Reuters reported earlier.

Reuters also reported last year that Chinese universities and research institutes obtained Nvidia's advanced AI chips embedded in server products made by Dell, Super Micro and Taiwan's Gigabyte Technology .
Check out the companies making headlines in midday trading: Intel  Shares declined 4.2%. Earlier in the day, shares rose more than 2% after Reuters, citing two sources familiar with the matter, reported that chipmakers Nvidia and Broadcom are running manufacturing tests with Intel . The tests signal that both companies are heading closer toward committing hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of manufacturing contracts to Intel, Reuters said. Chinese automakers  U.S. shares of Chinese electric vehicle brands fell on the heels of their latest deliveries reports . Shares of Xpeng slid 5.8%, and Nio dropped 8.6%, while Li Auto plunged 10.9%. Nvidia  The artificial intelligence chip darling's stock shed 8.7%, marking an about-face from the nearly 4% gain it saw during Friday's session. The move comes after The Wall Street Journal reported late Sunday that Chinese buyers are circumventing U.S. export controls to order the company's Blackwell chips. Crypto stocks  Stocks tied to the price of bitcoin closed lower on Monday after rising earlier in the session on the heels of U.S. President Donald Trump offering new details on a strategic crypto reserve for the country. Shares of Mara Holdings closed 0.9% lower after gaining nearly 8%, while MicroStrategy sank 1.8% after advancing more than 4%. Coinbase fell 4.6% after climbing almost 2%. SanDisk  The computer technology company moved 7.4% higher after Morgan Stanley initiated coverage of the stock with an overweight rating. The firm anticipates tough times in the near term for SanDisk, but sees upside surging as cyclical drivers reverse. Allegro MicroSystems  The stock rallied 14.9% after Bloomberg News, citing people familiar with the matter, reported that the chipmaker has drawn takeover interest from ON Semiconductor. ON Semiconductor , meanwhile, was 4.6% lower after moving about 0.5% higher following the report. AppLovin  The stock surged 3.6% after the mobile advertising company disclosed in a regulatory filing that $500 million in shares will be immediately available for repurchase. Capri Holdings  Shares climbed 3.9% on the back of Bloomberg News, citing people familiar, reporting that Prada is closer to sealing a deal to buy Versace from Capri for an agreed-upon price of almost 1.5 billion euros, or around $1.6 billion. The deal could close this month, Bloomberg said. Chipotle Mexican Grill  The restaurant stock rose 0.7% after an upgrade to overweight from equal weight at Morgan Stanley. The investment firm said recent demand issues do not appear to reflect a structural problem with Chipotle and that this could be a good entry point for investors to buy the stock, which has struggled in 2025 so far and is up just 2% over the past 12 months. Aurora Innovation  The self-driving vehicle tech stock decreased 4.5%. The stock added 3% earlier in the day after Morgan Stanley initiated shares at an overweight rating . As a catalyst, analyst Ravi Shanker pointed to Aurora's planned April launch of its first commercial driverless operations between Dallas and Houston, which will further solidify Aurora's position as a key industry leader. Thor Industries  Shares of the recreational vehicle maker jumped 0.3% after Bank of America upgraded Thor to buy from neutral , forecasting a rebound for shares as the company expands its customer base and increases its shipments.  CNBC's Jesse Pound, Lisa Kailai Han, Pia Singh and Michelle Fox contributed reporting.
King Charles III (then Prince Charles) visits Honeydale Farm in the Cotswolds region of England on June 22, 2021. The King is known to be a supporter of sustainable agriculture.

When King Charles III visited Honeydale Farm in England's Cotswolds region, one of his first remarks was: "Monoculture. That's our problem."

That's the recollection of the farm's owner Ian Wilkinson, as he walked down its drive with the then Prince Charles almost four years ago.

"And I nodded, and thought: 'well, absolutely,'" Wilkinson told CNBC via video call.

Monoculture refers to the common practice of growing a single crop on a piece of land, sometimes year after year. Crops are grown in this way for efficiency, but critics say doing so depletes soil nutrients and increases the risk of disease.

The king  a longtime supporter of organic farming  visited Honeydale to learn about its focus on growing a wide variety of plants, a technique that aims to regenerate the soil.

Wilkinson studied agriculture in the 1970s when monoculture was encouraged after a post-World War II drive for the U.K. to import less food and become more self-sufficient.

"We were trained to produce more food and do it cheaply  and we didn't have much regard for the environment, for nature," Wilkinson said. Farmers relied on fertilizers made from petrochemicals, he added, and today, only around 3% of agricultural land in the U.K. is farmed organically, according to the most recent government statistics.

A long career at the Cotswold Seed Company, which supplies farms with seeds for wildflowers, grasses and root crops, meant Wilkinson heard from a lot of farmers, some of whom emphasized the need for self-sufficiency and for a diverse range of crops.
Every weekday the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer holds a "Morning Meeting" livestream at 10:20 a.m. ET. Here's a recap of Monday's key moments. 1. Stocks opened higher to start the trading week, but gave back those gains after the February ISM manufacturing data missed estimates. While the report showed sector growth, it came in weaker than expected with concerns about order delays due to tariffs. President Donald Trump's tariffs on Mexico and Canada are scheduled to start Tuesday, and potential retaliatory tariffs from these countries adds to the worries. "The market doesn't like uncertainty," said Club portfolio director Jeff Marks. "It's hard for companies to make a long-term investment decision if they don't know what trade policy is going to be." Semiconductors are notable laggards, with Nvidia and Broadcom down 4.4% and 1.6%, respectively. Stocks tied to data centers are also taking a hit, like electric power company Eaton , down 1.7%. 2. In his Sunday column , Jim Cramer advised looking for stocks with as little exposure to tariffs as possible. Texas Roadhouse has held up well since most of its restaurants are in the U.S., though it faces some pressure from rising beef prices, which the company accounted for in its outlook. Off-price retailer TJX Companies is another company bucking tariff headwinds as larger retailers dealing with supply chain disruptions may be forced to liquidate inventory, which TJX picks up at massive discounts. In healthcare, Abbott Labs has noted a minimal impact on tariffs. The stock made a 52-week high Monday, trading 1.5% higher at $140 per share. Linde noted in its last earnings call that if there's a currency devaluation because of tariffs it will be a pricing tailwind for the company. 3. Shares of cybersecurity stock CrowdStrike rose more than 1% ahead of its fourth-quarter earnings Tuesday evening. Wells Fargo named the stock its "signature pick" Monday, as demand continues to improve after the big outage last year. Yet analysts are cautious heading into the print because they worry the company's net new annual recurring revenue estimates are too high. Separately, Canaccord said Monday the setup is good into the print with the stock down about 15% from its recent highs. Analysts said customers recognize now is a good time to do business with CrowdStrike due to incentive packages. We also like the stock long term, Marks said, adding, "If the stock gets hit on earnings we would potentially look to buy." (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long NVDA, AVGO, ETN, TJX, TXRH, ABT, LIN, CRWD. See here for a full list of the stocks.) As a subscriber to the CNBC Investing Club with Jim Cramer, you will receive a trade alert before Jim makes a trade. Jim waits 45 minutes after sending a trade alert before buying or selling a stock in his charitable trust's portfolio. If Jim has talked about a stock on CNBC TV, he waits 72 hours after issuing the trade alert before executing the trade. THE ABOVE INVESTING CLUB INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY , TOGETHER WITH OUR DISCLAIMER . NO FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION OR DUTY EXISTS, OR IS CREATED, BY VIRTUE OF YOUR RECEIPT OF ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH THE INVESTING CLUB. NO SPECIFIC OUTCOME OR PROFIT IS GUARANTEED.
U.S. President Donald Trump makes an announcement about an investment from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), in the Roosevelt Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 3, 2025.

President Donald Trump said that on Tuesday he will impose 25% tariffs on goods imported from Canada and Mexico, dashing hopes for a last-minute deal that could avoid a trade war with two of the U.S.' top trading partners.

Trump told reporters there was "no room left for Mexico or for Canada" to negotiate an alternative to the tariffs, which he has threatened to impose for weeks.

"They're all set. They go into effect tomorrow," the president said at a White House event Monday.

Stock prices plunged after Trump spoke. The S&P 500 fell 1.76%, its worst day since December, putting the index into the red for the year to date.

Trump, as he has previously, cited the flow of the deadly opioid fentanyl into the U.S. as justification for the tariffs, apparently unsatisfied with recent efforts by Canada and Mexico to strengthen law enforcement at their respective borders.

"Just so you understand, vast amounts of fentanyl have poured into our country from Mexico, and as you know, also from China, where it goes to Mexico and goes to Canada," the president said.

In addition to announcing that the tariffs on the two U.S. neighbors would go forward Tuesday, Trump on Monday imposed an additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports, doubling the 10% duty he had slapped on Beijing in early February.

Tariffs are essentially taxes on foreign goods that are paid by the importers.

Because of that, critics warn that the Trump tariffs ultimately will lead to higher prices for U.S. consumers.

But they remain Trump's favorite way to flex America's muscle against its adversaries and allies alike.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said his country will impose retaliatory tariffs if Trump follows through on his threats.

Ottawa in February said it was prepared to slap 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, and readied an opening salvo that targeted goods produced in Republican-led states.

China announced retaliatory measures against the U.S. in February, when Trump's first round of 10% tariffs against Beijing took hold. China has vowed additional countermeasures to address Trump's latest round of tariffs.

Since taking office for a nonconsecutive second term, Trump has imposed a 25% duty on all U.S. imports of steel and aluminum, in addition to tariffs on Chinese imports.

He has also unveiled a plan to enact "reciprocal tariffs" on other countries that impose tariffs on imports from the U.S.

Trump's comments Monday came during an event touting a $100 billion investment in the U.S. by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing .

Trump said that by planning to build new chip fabrication plants in Arizona, the company will avoid getting hit with import tariffs.

He admonished Canada and Mexico to do the same.

"What they have to do is build their car plants, frankly, and other things in the United States, in which case they have no tariffs," Trump said.

The tariffs set to take effect Tuesday on Canada and Mexico were first ordered by Trump in an executive order Feb. 1.

But he postponed those tariffs for a month after those countries on Feb. 3 pledged to take steps toward preventing the trafficking of fentanyl across their borders into the U.S.

Mexico said it would send 10,000 soldiers to the U.S. border to combat drug trafficking operations. And on Thursday, Mexico extradited 29 drug cartel members to the U.S.

But Trump last week said the tariffs would take effect Tuesday after complaining that illicit drugs are still "pouring into our Country from Mexico and Canada at very high and unacceptable levels."

However, doubts remained that Trump would follow through on his threat.

Earlier Monday, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested that Trump might soften his tariff demands.

"He knows they've done a good job on the border," Lutnick said in a CNN interview.

"They haven't done enough on fentanyl. Let's see how the president weighs that today," Lutnick said. "We're going to talk about it all day today, and then he'll let everybody know tomorrow with the plans."

Canada has emphasized that the amount of fentanyl that travels into the U.S. from the northern border is just a small fraction of what comes in through Mexico.

About 21,148 pounds of fentanyl were seized at the U.S. southwest border in fiscal year 2024, versus 43 pounds seized from the Canadian border in the same period, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

 CNBC's Megan Cassella contributed to this report.
The Huawei booth at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, 2025. Arjun Kharpal | CNBC

BARCELONA  Huawei is dipping its toes back into the international smartphone market, but analysts warn the lingering effects of U.S. sanctions is likely to hamper the Chinese company's ability to compete with leaders Apple and Samsung. Over the past few months, Huawei has launched two key devices outside of China. The first in December was the Mate X6, a foldable smartphone, followed by the Mate XT, Huawei's 3,499 euros ($3,660) trifold phone. Huawei was looking to stand out from the crowd of similar-looking smartphones at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, the world's biggest telecoms trade show. The Chinese firm had a large stand showing off its wares, including the Mate XT.

These expensive devices and Huawei's presence at a global tech show, underscore the tech giant's targeted approach, attempting to maintain its brand image as an innovative company while selling high-end smartphones. "Huawei is still very cautious and conservative with what it believes it can achieve outside China with its smartphone business," Runar Bjrhovde, an analyst at Canalys told CNBC. "Bringing Mate XT and X6 abroad is no sign that it will make an international comeback with its smartphone business in the next years. Both of these are priced exceptionally and is instead to maintain its desired brand perception of being a cutting-edge innovator with smartphones and still sell devices to its most wealthy super-fans."

Signage shows the Huawei Mate X6 at Huawei's booth at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, 2025. Arjun Kharpal | CNBC

Huawei's downfall and comeback

Huawei became the world's biggest smartphone player for the first time in the second quarter of 2020 after aggressive overseas expansion and success in its home market of China. It launched innovative devices at competitive price points and was challenging the likes of Samsung and Apple. Shortly after this milestone, U.S. sanctions that were in place began to take their toll. The two biggest effects were cutting Huawei off from leading-edge chips and from Google's services. Both hit the company hard and its smartphone business was crippled. However, Huawei's slow return to international markets started with a surprise comeback that began late in 2023 when the Shenzhen-headquartered firm launched a phone with an advanced semiconductor that many had thought would be difficult for the company to design and manufacture.

International challenges

MWC used to be a show dominated by Huawei, from the sponsorship of the lanyards and badges that attendees wore, to announcing the buzziest product launches at the event. While Huawei has scaled back some of the glitzier aspects of its attendance, its stand remains very large as it shows off other parts of its business, in particular its telecommunications equipment which helped turn it into one of the world's biggest tech companies. In the consumer space, Huawei has maintained some presence outside of China with devices such as smartwatches but its smartphone business remains very limited. The firm is using 2025's MWC to show off the Mate XT, the first of its kind device with a screen that folds twice. However, its success in China is unlikely to be replicated with the biggest challenge being Huawei's lack of access to Google's Android software, analysts said. "I don't think they will be able to return to international markets without the full Google services," Francisco Jeronimo, vice president for data and analytics at International Data Corporation, told CNBC.

A Huawei Technologies Mate XT smartphone arranged in Hong Kong on Sep. 24, 2024. Lam Yik | Bloomberg | Getty Images

"They haven't managed to grow market share in the international markets," he said. Google's Android operating system is run by 80% of the world's smartphones, according to Counterpoint Research. Outside of China, Android device users rely on the Google Play Store, which is Google's app store, as well as the various apps from the Chrome browser to Gmail. While Huawei has its own operating system called HarmonyOS, it still does not have the ability to offer Google apps, which the majority of users rely on. "Expanding the smartphone business outside China will be a huge challenge," Canalys' Bjrhovde said. "Not only because Harmony barely has any active users outside China, limiting its user feedback and app availability, but also because it needs the right device portfolio, operations team, marketing resources, etc. This will take years to rebuild, even with strong success in other device categories."
JX Advanced Metals Corp. cut the proposed price of what will likely be Japans biggest initial public offering since 2018, citing market weakness.The shares will be sold at 810 to 820 each, according to a filing in Tokyo on Monday. At that price, the sale would fetch as much as about 439 billion yen ($2.9 billion) but its lower than the 862-a-share price the company had indicated earlier.The global share offering will be larger than last years mega IPO of subway operator Tokyo Metro Co., and will test investors interest in Japanese share sales after about 960 billion of deals last year.The metal refiner generates and supplies key semiconductor materials to clients including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Intel Corp.JX is a unit of the nations biggest oil refiner, Eneos Holdings Inc., which is selling part of its stake. Eneos has said it would use the funds raised to improve shareholder returns and invest in decarbonization as it aims for more than 10% of return-on-equity under a mid-term management plan through March 2026.The IPO will also reflect demand for semiconductors, given that JX has more than 60% of the global market share for so-called sputtering target materials, which are used in the circuitry of semiconductors, according to a filing. It competes with other manufacturers globally such as US-based Honeywell International Inc. and Chinas Konfoong Materials International Co.JX generated 26.4 billion of operating profit from the chip materials segment in its fiscal year ended in March last year, equivalent of about third of the total 86.1 billion. It forecasts a 11% increase in operating profit to 95.7 billion in this fiscal year.
Oil gained at the start of the week ahead of planned tariffs by the Trump administration on major US trading partners including China, which raises the prospect of retaliatory measures and market volatility.Brent climbed above $73 a barrel after posting the biggest monthly loss since September, while West Texas Intermediate futures traded near $70. The levies on China, Mexico and Canada, which are scheduled to start on Tuesday, may yet be delayed, but any reprieve would likely be temporary.President Donald Trumps threats to implement sweeping tariffs on a number of countries has weighed on sentiment across global markets, with benchmark oil futures on a downtrend since mid-January. Hedge funds cut their net-long position in WTI to the lowest level since 2010 through Feb. 25.Levies on Canadian and Mexican oil, as well as threats to revoke Chevron Corp.s license to produce and export Venezuelan crude, put at risk around 80% of US crude imports. That could raise costs for refiners at a time when theyve ramped up processing to historically high levels.The market will also be watching for any signs of spending plans by China as the nation heads into its biggest political huddle of the year. Thousands of delegates including ministry chiefs will gather Wednesday in Beijing.Elsewhere, Iraq invited international oil companies operating in the countrys Kurdish region for a meeting on Tuesday to help resume flows halted for about two years. The potential restart of exports from the region has weighed on prices recently.
Uno Minda expands R&D capabilities with new facility in Czech Republic

Shares of Uno Minda ended 0.3% higher today on the BSE at a price of 828.00.

By CNBCTV18
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is set to embark on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland from March 4 to 9, to strengthen diplomatic ties and engage with key stakeholders.During his visit to the UK, Jaishankar will hold discussions with his British counterpart, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and meet several high-ranking officials. He is also expected to interact with members of the Indian diaspora, the ministry said in a statement today, March 3.India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, encompassing defence, security, trade, health, and education. The visit is expected to reinforce these collaborations and advance shared priorities.Jaishankar will then travel to Ireland from March 6 to 7, where he will meet Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris, other dignitaries, and representatives of the Indian community."India and Ireland share friendly bilateral relations based on shared democratic values, cultural ties, and growing economic engagement," the statement said.
In a blistering critique, former Intel CEO and Chairman Craig Barrett has strongly opposed breaking the company into separate design and foundry units, arguing that Intels recent technological resurgence positions it to challenge TSMCs dominance in the semiconductor industry without corporate dismantling.

Barrett also dismissed calls from four former Intel board members who suggested that splitting the company would be the only viable solution to its struggles.

Intel is about to regain its leadership in this area, and the dumbest idea around is to stall that from happening by slicing the company into pieces, Barett wrote in an opinion piece in Fortune.
When you think of a military animal, a Yorkshire Terrier is probably one of the last things youd imagine. In fact, most people would consider sending a pup usually seen poking out of a Birkin bag into a war zone as an act of animal cruelty. Most of the time, theyd probably be right. In World War II, however, there was one tiny terrier who proved herself as useful as the hulking beasts the military typically utilizes.

That dog was Smoky the Yorkie, a 4-pound, 7-inch-tall Yorkshire Terrier.

Don't Miss

Perhaps she was a little more bombproofed than most urban pooches to begin with, since she was found already inside a war zone. William Wynne, a dog lover stationed in New Guinea, was brought a stray dog that a fellow military man had found stuck in a foxhole. Wynne, of course, didnt immediately start training Smoky to fight for the Allied Forces. He began with standard tricks like sit and stay, and Smoky was originally just a simple companion. Shed accompany Wynne everywhere, and when he was in a military hospital with Dengue fever, she became the darling of the staff and patients.

Fair Use Who would shoot at this perfect angel?

Smoky was called into action later on, when her diminutive size proved perfect for a sorely needed mission: running telephone lines through a 70-foot long underground pipe that was only 8 inches wide. Wynne agreed, with a promise that Smoky would be dug out if unable to complete her mission. It turned out the worry was misplaced, as Smoky performed perfectly under pressure, running the phone lines, strapped to her chest, through the dark pipe with Wynnes encouragement.

Smokys underground journey proved hugely important: Those phone lines enabled calls for air support, and that air support was what saved Smokys base from destruction, even as most encampments surrounding them were completely decimated. You could say, without exaggeration, that Smoky saved the lives of an entire military base. In return, she received the worlds most adorable statue.
Adrien Brody won his second Academy Award on Sunday night for his starring role in the critically-acclaimed film The Brutalist.

The first time he scored a Best Actor trophy, Brody controversially kissed Halle Berry without her consent, so youd think hed work extra hard to not do something gross and weird immediately after winning an Oscar this time. But nope, right before taking the stage Brody took some chewing gum out of his mouth and chucked it at his partner. He then proceeded to give a speech that made The Brutalist feel like a Quibi show by comparison.

Although Brody had already won for The Pianist in 2003, his recent victory is something of a comeback. Apart from the occasional Wes Anderson film, Brodys cinematic output in the past decade or so hasnt been terribly memorable. And perhaps the best evidence of just how low Brodys career sank is the 2013 sketch comedy movie inAPPropriate Comedy.

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As one viral social media post pointed out, the movie, which also starred Rob Schneider and Lindsay Lohan, came out just 12 years ago. And Brody, who had won an Oscar only a decade before that, was billed below Schneider.

If the cast wasnt eyebrow-raising enough, the director of the film was Vince Offer, AKA the ShamWow! guy.

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Prior to his infomercial days, Offer directed another, equally-reviled sketch flick called The Underground Comedy Movie, featuring an eclectic cast of random celebrities that included Slash from Guns N Roses, Michael Clarke Duncan, and Joey Buttafucco.

Offer actually got into the infomercial business in an effort to market DVDs of the movie on TV, because it had cost him all of his money, in part, because he sued Anna Nicole Smith for (perhaps wisely) backing out at the last minute. It also probably didnt help that Offer unsuccessfully tried to sue the Farrelly Brothers, who he claimed had ripped off The Underground Comedy Movie for Theres Something About Mary.

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inAPPropriate Comedy, which began as a sequel to The Underground Comedy Movie, was annihilated by the few critics who saw it; The Hollywood Reporter claimed that it made Movie 43 look good in retrospect. The New York Post called it brutally unfunny, arguing that Lindsay Lohans 90 second scene would have been preferable if she had used a loaded gun on the alleged director.

And Brodys segment is somehow even worse than you could possibly imagine. Variety noted that the career decision was iffy but that seems like a pretty big understatement. Brody stars as Flirty Harry a Dirty Harry-eque cop who, get a load of this, is also gay. Cue the onslaught of homophobic double entendres.

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And keep in mind, inAppropriate Comedy came out after Offer was arrested, but not charged, for physically abusing a sex worker who he alleged had bit him -- and also after he had been sued by a former employee for allegedly stalking her and and offering to pay $20,000 and a paid one month vacation for her parents to travel the world in exchange for her eggs.

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Why was Brody even in this movie made by an alleged creep that looks like it paid the cast with free food and Axe Body Spray? According to Uproxx, Brody was friends with Offer, and, rumor has it, he was given a green light to be as funny and filthy as he wanted. This claim is seemingly backed up by the fact that, in addition to acting in this trainwreck, Brody received a writing credit for coming up with additional dialogue.

Which, given what we know about Brodys comedy-writing skills, totally checks out.
Just the kind of brutalist building that Trumps administration opposes. Photo: Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg via Getty Images

This week, a new Trump-approved, Musk-backed DOGE employee sent an email to workers at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development asking for information about all contracts, especially any involving diversity, equity, and inclusion words that might appear frequently at HUD, given that part of its core mission is to ensure equitable access to housing after decades of government-backed segregation and redlining.

HUD staffers might have been incensed by the email, joining the thousands of other federal employees whove received a regular torrent of demands from Musk and his ragtag army of engineers. But as Wired reported, they were probably also confused  or even alarmed  by the person who sent it: Scott Langmack, the COO of a badly named proptech firm, Kukun, which offers real-estate investors information to grow wealth in lifes game of real estate and home ownership. The AI-backed platform lets investors put in a few nuggets of information and get answers to questions like whether its worth it to remodel, or how much to raise the price of a rental based on factors like the age of the renovation or the neighborhood. Those answers require public data on rents and sales, construction, and permits, and Kukun, like any proptech company, tries to differentiate itself by saying it relies on the hardest to find data.

Kukuns promise to its clients is about profit.

Now, as Wired reports, Langmack is one of two new DOGE appointees from the world of real estate assigned to cut costs at HUD  a job that gives them access to the largest field of data on American housing. Anonymous employees told Wired that these HUD databases include everything from homelessness rates to environmental and health hazards to federally insured mortgages. It also includes a lot of info that a proptech executive probably shouldnt have unfettered access to, like the medical and immigration records of everyone using a Section 8 voucher and the addresses of otherwise hidden domestic-violence shelters.

Scott Langmack Photo: LinkedIn

Before running Kukun, Langmacks primary work experience seems to be in marketing. He made his name in the 1990s, helping Pepsi differentiate itself from Coke, an experience that taught him to get customers by selling them the best possible promise to generate emotional engagement and customer loyalty, as he wrote in a blog post. He left around 1996 for lower pay and less prestige at Microsoft, where he led the less sexy tech-support division. But it was a door into the tech world. By 2013, he had a recruiting start-up  BlueChipExec.com  which Langmack marketed with a self-help book that promised The Fast Track to Your Ideal Job . The intro credits his deadbeat dad with helping him realize, at age 14, that I would have to earn for myself. But the recruiting start-up may have been a wash: Its not even on his LinkedIn, which lists exec roles at a software company, a different recruiter start-up, and Securify.

By the 2008 recession, Langmack was making money on the side as a kind of legal loan shark. I can reliably get 12 percent, worst case 9 percent, he told Bloomberg, in a 2009 article on the rise of unregulated peer-to-peer lending networks, including Lending Club, where he was a member before launching his own Incline Fund. And real estate seemed to have been where Langmack spent this money. His wife, Lori Langmack, is a Compass broker, although the last listing on her website sold in 2021. Its not clear whether he has left his position at Kukun, which means that his current role at DOGE could be used to benefit his private company.

The other DOGE appointee working inside HUD is Michael Mirski, who Wired reported was on a six-month leave from TCC Management, a company that operates mobile-home parks nationally  work that he has said depends on access to data. In his new role, HUDs oversight over mobile homes also presents a conflict of interest, even if he has temporarily left his position. The company seems to have cleared out the content on its website, but there are small and occasional news items about its purchase of mobile-home parks in the South  a business model that, as The New Yorker reported, may depend on the predatory practice of raising the rent on land under homes that are difficult to uproot, and tend to be occupied by those without the cash to just move or buy a new apartment. Mirski now has the ability to make some changes in a system that determines who can even get into any HUD systems along with access to three of them. Neither Langmack nor Mirski, of course, appear to have gone through the required protocol to be approved for this level of access. But it isnt just information on individual households thats concerning; its information on $100 billion of funding that Congress has already approved for HUD.
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For years its been reported that Labour PM Harold Wilson resigned in 1976 because of looming Alzheimers. But could he have been aware of this prognosis much earlier?

Obituaries of Wilsons former spin doctor Joe Haines, who died last month aged 97, claim the former journalist was one of the few who knew about the impending resignation in March that year.

But last week Wilsons son Robin revealed his father had planned to resign four years earlier  if hed won the 1970 general election.

The mathematics professor wrote in a letter to The Times: As a family, we knew in 1970 that if he had won that election he would have served only 18 months, having run the party and the country for several years.

After losing that election, he was determined to continue, and we knew then that if Labour returned to power he would carry on for a short period. So when Labour won in October 1974, we knew he intended to leave office in March 1976.

So why did Wilson, whose party was unexpectedly beaten by the Conservatives in 1970, want to quit as early as 1972? And why did he choose to soldier on  first as Leader of the Opposition, then as PM  until 1976?

Could it be that Wilson, who died of cancer at the age of 79 in 1995, was already aware of his declining faculties?

Former Labour PM Harold Wilson planned to resign four years earlier than he did - had he won the 1970 general election, his son Robin revealed last week

Wilson and his former press secretary Joe Haines (left). Obituaries of Haines, who died last month, claimed the former journalist was one of few to know about Wilson's impending resignation in March 1976

The Iron Lady with the lamp

How many Iron Ladies does it take to change a lampshade? Ask Margaret Thatchers former aide, Amanda Ponsonby.

At a Women2Win event to mark the 50th anniversary of Mrs Ts election as Tory leader, Ms Ponsonby recalled the day when Lady Thatcher decided to make a new lampshade after she spotted one that needed replacing.

On being persuaded she didnt have the time, they went to buy one at department store Peter Jones.

The lady who served us thought it was an impersonator, says Ms Ponsonby. It was only when the prime minister started telling them how to make lampshades that they realised it was her.

Margaret Thatcher's former aide Amanda Ponsonby revealed that the Iron Lady paid a visit to department store Peter Jones to buy a new lampshade

Whip of the week

The lack of an index in new book Ungovernable: The Political Diaries Of A Chief Whip is not a mistake. Author Simon Hart, chief whip under Rishi Sunak, told me: Most MPs go straight to the index. If they dont see their name they dont buy it.

But there is the saucy tale of the Tory MP who called Hart in the early hours to say he needed rescuing from a brothel where he had run out of cash. Who might he be?

His secret is safe with me, says Hart.

Nicknames come thick and fast for embattled Chancellor Rachel Reeves. First there was Robber Reeves for her fleecing of pensioners, then Robot Reeves for her dreary monotone and, most recently, Rusty Reeves after her claim to be the Iron Chancellor.

Given the number of exaggerations on her CV, might I also suggest: The Chancer of the Exchequer?

Among the many nicknames for the Chancellor are 'Rusty Reeves' and 'Robber Reeves', but I would suggest 'The Chancer of the Exchequer'

Giving evidence to MPs last week, new Cabinet Secretary Sir Chris Wormald proudly announced it was his 100th appearance in front of a select committee.

Did Permy Wormy, as he is known thanks to his long career as a permanent secretary, keep count himself, or did an underling have to do it for him?

No 10 is such a nuisance!

When Reform MP Lee Anderson asked about nuisance neighbours and tenants during a Commons debate, he received a huge response from the public.

One email read: Could you help me and my family with a nuisance tenant? It started about seven months ago when this funny-looking bloke moved in. Since then he has made everyones life a misery. My neighbours are too scared to speak out as the police always take his side. His address is 10 Downing Street, London.

An eviction is expected at the next General Election.
Can anything stop the rise of Reform  and even the prospect of Nigel Farage becoming, in due course, Prime Minister?

Yes: his good friend Donald Trump.

More specifically, as the US Presidents infatuation with the Russian President Vladimir Putin and his hatred for Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky becomes ever more grotesquely obvious, Farages perennial role as Trumps UK cheerleader-in-chief might begin to appear almost unpatriotic.

This is not a good look for the leader of a party that emphasises patriotism above all other virtues.

More than any other European nation, the British people have identified with Ukraines predicament (perhaps seeing the nightly bombing of Kyiv as an echo of the Luftwaffes Blitz here).

Its also because our own citizens have been put at direct risk by Putins goons: first when they used polonium in a London hotel to murder one of the Kremlins enemies (a British subject, by the way), and then when Novichok was unleashed in Salisbury against another of Putins targets.

The casually dumped perfume spray killed one British woman, but could have done so much worse.

It was Jeremy Corbyns refusal to blame Russia for this reckless act that convinced millions of voters he was not on our side. And the incident which caused most trouble to Reform during the 2024 election was when Farage said the ever eastward expansion of Nato and the European Union had given Russia a reason to go to war.

The British people, for the most part, worked out that Putin was motivated entirely by his resentment of Ukrainian independence. Prior to his sending the tanks in three years ago, Natos borders had not moved an inch nearer Moscow since the accession of the Baltic states in March 2004.

Reform UK's Nigel Farage (right) makes his allegiance clear with best buddy Donald Trump at the US president's Mar-a-Lago home

In particular, Putin hated Zelensky. This he has in common with his chum in the White House, who has never forgiven the Ukrainian President since, in 2019, he resisted Trumps demand that he hand over dirt on Joe Bidens son, Hunter, in exchange for weapons.

Yet in the UK, Zelensky is widely seen as a hero, from the moment he turned down US and British offers to fly him to safety as Kyiv came under attack, with the immortal phrase: I need ammunition, not a ride.

That is one reason why so many of us were appalled by Trumps mocking remark to Zelensky in that Oval Office bullying of the Ukrainian president: Ive empowered you to be a tough guy.

This from a man who dodged the Vietnam War draft and said avoiding sexually transmitted disease during that period was his personal Vietnam.

Yes, Zelensky was unwise to rise to the provocation from Vice President JD Vance. But given Vance had, in 2022, declared I dont really care what happens to Ukraine one way or the other, its unsurprising a visibly exhausted Zelensky could not hold his tongue.

At least the Ukrainians refusal to abase himself in front of The Donald, as everyone else does, had the educative effect of enraging Trump so much that he revealed to the world how he regards Putin as his brother-in-arms: Let me tell you, Putin went through a hell of a lot with me. He went through a phoney witch hunt where they used him and Russia, Russia, Russia.

Many of us were appalled by Trumps mocking remarks to Zelensky in that Oval Office

The Conservative shadow justice secretary, Robert Jenrick, immediately after this disgusting exhibition, posted on X that he was sickened by that degrading spectacle. And to think that the bust of Winston Churchill was in the same room as it unfolded.

By contrast, Farage kept silent for almost a day, before letting it be known that he regarded the events in the Oval Office as regrettable.

However, the Reform leader is the canniest and most skilful politician in the country. So he knows that he will have even more of a problem should his pal the President slap tariffs on UK exports to the US, as part of his threatened trade war.

Sir Keir Starmer getting the King to invite Trump for a second state visit was partly to schmooze him out of such a decision. But Trump is so volatile, it would not take much for him to decide that the UK is also unfair to American exporters (he has the strange idea that our charging VAT on US cars is somehow discriminatory).

And if that were to happen, then the British people might well decide that any friend of Donald Trump is an enemy of ours.

If suicide is bad, then why assist it?

A moving moment at Prime Ministers Questions last week. Before the Leader of the Opposition got up for her weekly joust with Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour MP for Warrington North, Charlotte Nichols, raised the case of her constituent, Mike Addison.

She described how this physical disability rugby world champion  tragically died at age 45, having taken his own life. Nichols went on to say: One death by suicide is too many, and every suicide is preventable.

The PM solemnly concurred: She is right that one death by suicide is one too many, and reducing the number is a vital part of our health mission.

Theres something very odd about this exchange, however. Both Nichols and her party leader voted for Kim Leadbeaters Bill to legalise assisted suicide.

Of course, they  along with all the other supporters of the Bill  call it assisted dying.

Charlotte Nichols MP speaks in the Commons last week

But that describes what hospices do: these wonderful institutions care for those with incurable illnesses in their final months.

And the drafting of Kim Leadbeaters Bill makes the distinction absolutely clear: in law, this is an amendment of section 2 of the Suicide Act 1961  decriminalising assisting anothers suicide when performed under the remit of the Bill (with authorised assistance).

Yet in the continuing parliamentary committee examination of the Bill, its co-sponsor, the Conservative MP Kit Malthouse, objected when one of his colleagues, Rebecca Paul, used the word suicide.

Malthouse declared: Suicide is a healthy person taking their life, but what we are talking about is someone who is seeking to take control of their inevitable death.

This is bizarre. There is such a thing as mental health and, in this respect, one might argue that no healthy person ever commits suicide.

For example, Mike Addison, as his wife told the inquest into his death last month, had a history of depression.

Under the Leadbeater Bill, it is precisely those people cast into depression immediately after the diagnosis that they have a terminal physical illness who will be most vulnerable to the change in the law governing suicide.

Those voting for the measure, who simultaneously warble that one death by suicide is one too many, are committing an offence against language and meaning.
The choreography of yesterdays Lancaster House summit was clear. Warm embraces, hearty handshakes, broad smiles, lingering photo opportunities  this was an emphatic statement that the leaders of Europe stand united behind Ukraine.

With the transatlantic pact which has underpinned peace and security on the continent since 1945 beginning to falter, they will need all the strength and resolve they can muster. After 80 years of relying on the US, it seems Europe may henceforth have to defend itself.

After his shameful mauling by Donald Trump and JD Vance at the White House on Friday, this summit was also an opportunity for Europe and Nato to wrap a collective arm around Volodymyr Zelensky.

Even King Charles played his part, inviting the Ukrainian president for tea at Sandringham and posing for cosy pictures by the fireside.

But touching though that was, this summit has to be about more than show. Sir Keir Starmer rightly says this is a once in a generation chance to deliver a just and enduring peace and secure Europes future. That will take actions, not mere words and happy snaps.

Appalling though his behaviour sometimes is, President Trump is not wrong when he says other Nato countries have been freeloading on the US for too long. He is also right to say the war must be brought to an end  the sooner the better.

Sir Keir, Mr Zelensky and President Macron of France are now working on an acceptable plan to end the hostilities, which will then be put to the White House for approval.

In the meantime, Sir Keir stressed the need to keep military support flowing so Ukraine can negotiate from the strongest possible position but also to show America that Europe is prepared to pay its way.

King Charles played his part, inviting the Ukrainian president for tea at Sandringham and posing for cosy pictures by the fireside

The Monarch invited the Ukrainian leader to his Sandringham Estate in Norfolk

Sir Keir, Mr Zelensky and President Macron of France are now working on an acceptable plan to end the hostilities, which will then be put to the White House for approval

Sir Keir has taken a strong lead, pledging to lift UK defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by raiding the foreign aid budget

To his credit, Sir Keir has taken a strong lead, pledging to lift UK defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by raiding the foreign aid budget, signing over 2.26 billion from frozen Russian assets and giving 1.6 billion in export finance to build 5,000 new air defence missiles at the Thales plant in Belfast for use in Ukraine.

Others made encouraging noises. EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen spoke of the urgent need for European rearmament, while Mr Macron urged EU members to unlock hundreds of billions of euros for their common defence.

Britain and France have also pledged to put boots on the ground and planes in the air to police any peace agreement and are hoping to build a coalition of the willing to join them in that enterprise. Sir Keir said early indications had been positive.

The next few weeks will be the ultimate test of Sir Keirs statesmanship. Thanks in no small part to Brexit, he finds himself playing a bridging role between the EU and Mr Trump, who have a mutual distrust, to put it mildly.

His principal mission is to keep the US within Nato. Without American military might, guaranteeing European security will be infinitely harder. Equally, he cant allow Ukraine to be sold down the river. It is a delicate diplomatic balance.

If Mr Trump continues to insult and bully Mr Zelensky, Britain should show its disapproval by shelving his planned state visit. But as the de facto leader of the free world, we must hope he remembers that his first duty is to defend liberty  not assist tyrants to crush democracy.
If you, like me, have been engrossed by the bitter aristocratic feud at Ragley Hall, Warwickshire, you might be scratching your head in bewilderment.

Why would Henry, the 9th Marquess of Hertford, and his Brazilian born wife Beatriz  custodians of the beautiful Palladian pile  disinherit their eldest son and heir, William Seymour, then ban him from setting foot on the estate?

Is young William, the 31-year-old Earl of Yarmouth, a cross-dressing drunk? Perhaps his father, the bearded 9th Marquess, has done this to somehow protect the longevity and security of Ragley Hall, which has been the family seat for 400 years.

Weve read a great deal about the stand-off in the past few days, including the Mails touching interview with Williams exasperated wife, Kelsey Yarmouth, on Saturday.

But Ive seen no answer to the question as to why the 66-year-old Marquess  Hal as he is known  should want to treat the young couple in this way.

Court documents have uncovered a series of hair-raisingly snobbish messages aimed at William and Kelsey, not least from Hals sister, Lady Carolyn Seymour, who at one point labelled her nephew Little Lord Fauntleroy and a pompous a**/t**/p***k.

An escalating series of insults culminated in 2019 when the Marquess evicted William and Kelsey from their home on the 6,000-acre Ragley Hall estate with only six days notice.

Then they were disinherited outright, although William has now mounted a legal challenge in respect of the trustees of the estate.

Kelsey Yarmouth outside the house she lives in with husband William and their children

Kelsey, then carrying her first child, says she ended up in hospital fighting for the babys life.

Control of the 85 million estate is clearly key. The 9th Marquess and Beatriz  plus other relatives  still live at Ragley Hall and no doubt enjoy their life there.

While the Marquess, Lord Hertford, declined to comment at the weekend, he has previously said the relationship with his son deteriorated very sharply after William asked him to hand over Ragley Hall when he turned 30, in 2023.

William had grown up understanding that he would inherit at a young age, as his own father had done, to help avoid death duties.

The Marquess and Marchionesss apparent dislike of 39-year-old Kelsey, a former Goldman Sachs analyst and an accomplished dressage rider, might also play a part.

The first time William wanted to bring his future bride home to Ragley Hall to meet the family, he was told there was no longer a bed in his room. It had been cleared out and given to a member of staff!

That comes close to stringing a banner across the front door with the words, Youre not welcome here any longer, son.

But if youd ever been personally exposed to the 9th Marquess and his sister, Lady Carolyn, as I have  in a manner which I can only describe as deeply disagreeable and upsetting  youd haven't an inkling of how this sad state of affairs has truly come about.

Wedding day dispute: William and Kelsey with his parents

My family and I used to love visiting Ragley Hall. When Williams late grandfather, Hugh Seymour, the 8th Marquess was the custodian, he built an amazing adventure playground for children on the estate.

My friends and I would often pack a tea and, after school, drive our children the short distance from our homes in the Cotswolds to play there.

Once, when I was looking round the main house, which is open to the public, I gazed at a huge portrait of Hugh. Although still alive and well at the time, a sign beneath the painting explained that the 8th Marquess had handed the estate over to his son  the current Marquess  in 1991, when Hal was 32 years old, in order to avoid crippling death duties.

If the 8th Marquess lived for seven years after handing over the estate, the inheritance tax bill would have been significantly reduced.

Its a tax loophole which, over the years, has allowed stately homes to remain in the family and open to the public, rather than being sold off to commercial interests. It was a smart move.

But my love affair with Ragley Hall came to an abrupt end one sunny Sunday in late summer.

My then husband and I were on a visit to the grounds with friends and their children, who had headed straight to the playground.

We were left behind, however, as our youngest child, then aged two-and-a-half, had gleefully spotted blackberries in a hedge near the car park.

Ragley Hall, ancestral home of the Marquess of Hertford, who has told his son William it will not be left to him

Blackberries! she squealed, as she toddled over. I lifted her up so she could reach them without hurting herself.

Urging her to let us move on and catch the others up  and not wanting to deal with the natural consequences of a little person eating too many unwashed blackberries  I was then startled by a large quad bike roaring up in front of us.

Hal, the 9th Marquess and instantly recognisable, was driving and began to shout at us in an authoritarian and aggressive manner. I was, frankly, scared. I had never been spoken to like this by anyone in my life.

It would be flattering to describe the woman sitting next to him on the quad bike as plain.

With lank hair not quite reaching her shoulders, a sallow complexion and dark circles under her eyes, an ugly rictus grin on her face and wearing a washed-out, sack-like, floral dress, she stared at me as he shouted.

Our two-year-old, unused to this sort of outburst, froze in my arms before bursting into tears.

We had no chance to respond as he called us trespassers and thieves, which given that we had paid an entry fee and parked in the car park, confused us.

Excuse me, my husband said in a quiet and controlled voice, what are you saying we have stolen?

Hal pointed his arm at my sobbing daughter and shouted: There! Those blackberries she was eating are mine. This is my land and my estate.

He was then 33 years old, by the way  not much older than his son William today.

I placed my hand over the ear of my daughter and hugged her into my chest to shield her from his spittle-spraying hostility. I stared at the woman beside him.

My eyes locked on and would have burnt to dust in my orbital cavities rather than blink first.

Then, the woman on the quad bike shifted her backside in the seat, grasping the edge to steady herself. She looked as uncomfortable as I was angry.

The Marquess continued lecturing us like children for some considerable time before she pressed his thigh with her hand, he turned the wheel of the quad bike and they roared away, leaving us with a sobbing child and in shock.

What had just happened? Was he right? Were we thieves? Was he mad?

An estate worker who had been hovering at a distance came over and asked if we were OK. She told us the woman on the bike had been the Marquesss sister, Lady Carolyn.

We duly retreated and I never, ever, took the children to Ragley Hall again.

It was an encounter that was so unpleasant and unkind that it stuck in my memory and for a while, I believe, coloured my opinion of anyone coming from a privileged background.

It tainted my responses to many people, including David Cameron, the future leader of my party, when I was a new MP.

Thirty years later, and now a Privy Counsellor, I see things differently. Ive met aristocrats, dukes, princes, kings and queens  kind and considerate people, every one of them.

So, in my experience, the Marquess, who uses a wheelchair in his dotage, is very much a one-off even among aristocrats.

The logic still defeats me. The wise 8th Marquess, Williams grandfather, passed on the estate to its rightful heir in good time, a chance to avoid inheritance tax and keep the place in good health.

Why wont Williams father do the same?

Unless he does, of course, the future of Ragley Hall, which struggles to pay the heating bill, could be in jeopardy.

Not that logic has so much to do with it.

Ive met the Marquess face-to-face  which is why, Im sorry to say, Im confident this nasty family feud is far from over.
Brunei, China partner to advance industrial technical talent education

Xinhua) 09:53, March 03, 2025

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, March 2 (Xinhua) -- The Brunei government continues to work with the country's industrial sectors to develop vocational training programs, to create a knowledge-based economy that can attract more foreign direct investment, a Bruneian government minister said at the Legislative Council on Saturday.

The Brunei-China joint venture Hengyi Industries has provided a scholarship program through collaboration with local educational institutions in Brunei such as Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Institute of Brunei Technical Education, and Politeknik Brunei, according to Haji Mohd Amin Liew Abdullah, Brunei's minister at the Prime Minister's Office and second minister of Finance and Economy.

The Minister said that a total of 941 students have received scholarships or participated in collaborative programs with the relevant local educational institutions. Of these, 530 students have been offered jobs at Hengyi, while the rest are still studying and will undergo work training before being offered jobs.

Brunei is a Southeast Asian country on Borneo's northern coast. Rich in oil and natural gas, the Sultanate has pursued economic diversification in recent years, deepening cooperation with Chinese enterprises across various sectors. Hengyi Industries is a flagship project between Brunei and China under the Belt and Road Initiative.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
A criminologist has revealed the main reason people kill in the UK - and which groups are most likely to be targeted by serial killers.

Professor David Wilson, who lectures at Birmingham City University and often appears on ITV's This Morning, explained that British people are far more likely to be killed in 'five minutes of madness', rather then by a serial killer.

Speaking on LADbible's Honesty Box YouTube series, David said: 'Seven out of 10 murder victims in the United Kingdom are men. Nine out of 10 perpetrators of murder are men.

The criminologist explained that the most common way murder occurs in Britain is as a result of young men fighting.

According to the Office for National Statistics there were 414 male murder victims in 2024, while there were 156 female victims.

The criminologist explained: 'The most common murder that will take place in Britain is a young man falling out with a young man on a Friday or Saturday night when that young man feels he isn't being given the respect he deserves.

'When he feels that and he's in the company of his friends, or indeed the friends of the person he feels has disrespected him, and he's been drinking too much or using other kinds of substances, he wants to lash out.

'He wants to regain a sense of who he is in that five minutes of madness, he might not set out to kill but he certainly is setting out to physically harm the person he believes has disrespected him. That is a typical murder in this country.'

Professor David Wilson, who lectures at Birmingham City University and often appears on ITV's This Morning, explained the main reason people kill in the UK and what groups will most likely be targeted by serial killers

The professor went on to say that it is 'appalling' that two women every week are murdered in this country by partner and/or ex-partners - and said 'misogyny' was to blame for the statistic.

He said: 'This is a male phenomenon and this is about men owning that phenomenon, and it's about men in my generation talking to younger men about how to perform masculinity.'

Wilson went on to argue that the lack of conversation around the issue of misogyny is opening up space for people like Andrew and Tristan Tate (who are currently under investigation for rape and trafficking allegations in Romania) to hold influence over young men.

'All that does is store up further problems for us in the future,' Wilson said.

According to ONS there were 108 domestic homicides in the UK in 2024, and of these, 83 were women and 25 were men, 66 of these victims were killed by a partner or ex-partner.

Elsewhere David explained that serial killers usually target specific groups of people, women, girls, sex workers and gay men.

He claimed if police would focus on protecting those groups then a lot more lives could be saved.

He explained: 'Serial killers in our culture have only targeted five groups of people. Four of those groups serial killers will target in the UK are dominated by women and girls.

'There's one group of men that by and large gets targeted by serial killers, that's gay men.

The professor explained that British people are far more likely to be killed in 'five minutes of madness', rather then by a serial killer

The criminologist explained that the most common murder that takes place in Britain is young men fighting and killing each other

'The two groups of women and girls that are most regularly targeted by serial killers are women over the age of 60 and sex workers.

'If you really wanted to reduce the incidence of serial murder in our culture you would challenge homophobia.

'Have a grown up debate about how you police those young women and some young men who sell sexual service, and above all we would start trying to give a voice to older people in our culture as opposed to seeing them as a burden on the state.'

David explained that women are more interested in true crime because of 'evolutionary psychology.'

He explained: 'I would have four out of five of my students would be women as opposed to men, it seems to me through evolutionary psychology that of course women are gonna be more interested in true crime because so often, it's women that have to manage the violence of men.

'So why wouldn't they want to know in what circumstances is this man likely to be violent?'
One of Melbourne's most iconic doughnut vendors is giving away its famous doughnuts for just 75 cents each this week in a surprise sale.

In celebration of its 75th anniversary later this year in August, American Doughnut Kitchen is kicking off the festivities with a flash sale on Tuesday, March 4.

For one morning only, both the Queen Victoria Market van and the Prahran Market shop will be offering bags of five doughnuts for just $3.75.

'We're thrilled to be celebrating 75 years of serving Melbourne the freshest and tastiest doughnuts,' American Doughnut Kitchen Managing Director Belinda Donaghey said.

'This flash sale is a small way of saying thank you to Melbourne for supporting us for 75 incredible years.

'We wouldn't be here without the love of our loyal customers, and we're excited to share this milestone with them.

'We wanted to kick off our 75th anniversary celebrations with a bang. So, we're inviting all of Melbourne to join us for a doughnut party.

Belinda said tomorrow is just the beginning of the anniversary celebrations and encouraged fans to stay tuned for 'more exciting things to come'.

One of Melbourne's most iconic doughnut vendors is giving away its famous doughnuts for just 75 cents each this week in a surprise sale

In celebration of its 75th anniversary later this year in August, American Doughnut Kitchen is kicking off the festivities with a flash sale on Tuesday, March 4

For one morning only, both the Queen Victoria Market van and the Prahran Market shop will be offering bags of five doughnuts for just $3.75

A Melbourne institution since 1950, American Doughnut Kitchen is famed for serving up hot jam doughnuts, made fresh to order.

'It's not just a snack; it's a four-dimensional taste experience, a journey through time and tradition,' the team says.

'Whether you're a first-timer or a third-generation doughnut lover, we're here to create moments that stick with you. Our doughnuts aren't just about the deliciousness (though that's a big part of it); they're about crafting memories that last a lifetime.

'Don't just eat doughnuts; savour the tradition.

'Don't just visit the market; become a part of the legacy. Because when it comes to creating sweet moments, we've been doing it for generations.'
Fashion fans were quick to slam Timothee Chalamet Sunday night after he made his debut at the 2025 Oscars in a butter-yellow suit.

Chalamet, who is up for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown, came to the awards wearing a custom leather two-piece by Givenchy.

The suit featured loose-fitting pants and a cropped jacket, which the star paired with a matching silk button down shirt.

Instead of a tie or bowtie, Chalamet wore a gold necklace, and tied everything together with a pair of shiny black dress shoes.

However, the look wasn't one that was for everyone, as many took to X to share their thoughts on his bold look, with some even comparing him to The Man with the Yellow Hat in the Curious George series.

'Timothee Chalamets yellow man from Curious George serve,' one person wrote, as they compared a side-by-side of Chalamet next to the character.

'Wheres his yellow hat and little monkey,' another chimed in.

'Timothee Chalamet looks like the guy in the yellow hat from curious George #theoscars,' someone else typed.

Fashion fans were quick to slam Timothee Chalamet Sunday night after he made his debut at the 2025 Oscars in a butter-yellow suit

Chalamet, who is up for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown, came to the awards wearing a custom leather two-piece by Givenchy

Instead of a tie or bowtie, Chalamet wore a gold necklace, and tied everything together with a pair of shiny black dress shoes

A user observed, 'He could win the Oscar in the most hideous color ever girl whatever.'

Others compared him to food items, such as banana-flavored Laffy Taffy or even a banana smoothie.

'Why is Timothee Chalamet serving a banana smoothie? Yellow? Another horrible outfit. Im sorry, but its the worst,' someone penned on the social media platform.

Someone wondered, 'Why is Timothee Chalamet dressed like yellow Fanta.'

However, his suit wasn't the only thing that made headlines on Sunday.

The actor showed up to the awards with girlfriend Kylie Jenner, who sat next to him at The Dolby Theatre.

The makeup mogul turned heads in a barely-there, strappy black gown, exuding effortless glamour.

Though she skipped the red carpet, leaving Timothee to walk alongside his mother, Kylie made up for it inside, staying close to her beau as they mingled before taking their seats.

However, the look wasn't one that was for everyone, as many took to X to share their thoughts on his bold look, with some even comparing him to The Man with the Yellow Hat in the Curious George series

The two put on a loved-up display as they shared a few kisses before the show began.

Kylie and Timothee have been together for almost two years, with rumors of their romance first swirling in April 2023 when her car was parked outside his Beverly Hills home.

The eventually made their first public appearance at Beyonces star-studded birthday concert in September 2023, where videos circulated of them cuddling and kissing in full view of concertgoers.

The couple made their award season debut at the 81st Golden Globes last January.
Mikey Madison won big at the 2025 Oscars, taking home the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in Anora.

On Sunday, March 2, the 25-year-old attended the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, California. She walked the red carpet in a pink and black Dior gown, which featured a strapless neckline and a bow at the bodice.

She accessorized the elegant look with a Tiffany & Co. necklace, while her hair was styled in an old Hollywood glamour updo.

However, Mikey's most noticeable accessory was the uniquely shaped reddish birthmark just below her collarbone, which was on full display as she accepted the Oscar on stage.

According to the Scream 5 star herself, the heart-shaped beauty mark 'gets so red' when she's nervous or flustered.

'Mikey Madison has a birthmark that, she says, always turns red when she gets nervous. And there it is. Bless,' wrote one Oscars viewer on X/Twitter.

Another person questioned: 'Is that a hickey or a birthmark on Mikey Madison's chest cause either one iconic.'

'Mikey's heart birthmark is so cute,' someone else said.

Mikey Madison accepted the Academy Award for Best Actress, showing off the reddish heart-shaped birthmark on her collarbone

The 25-year-old previously revealed her birthmark 'gets so red' when she's nervous or flustered

Many fans on social media pointed out Mikey's birthmark during the Oscars, calling it 'so cute' and 'iconic'

Last month, Mikey was asked to describe her first kiss during a video interview with W Magazine. 'I'm glad my birthmark isn't showing because it gets so red,' she began the story.

'I remember it so clearly because it was so embarrassing and I wanted to have my first kiss badly,' Mikey continued.

The Once Upon A Time in Hollywood actor explained that she was 'the weird horse girl' growing up but 'at some point I grew into myself' more.

While at a middle school dance, one of her boy classmates 'kind of quickly walked towards me' and asked her if she 'wanted to hook up,' which Mikey said was 'so horrible' and 'not romantic at all.'

'We kissed and it was sort of disgusting and exciting a little bit,' she added.

As she accepted the Best Actress award for her performance in Anora, Mikey gave a shout-out to the sex worker community, who served as inspiration for the film.

'This is very surreal,' she started the speech. 'I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me, so to be here, standing in this room today is really incredible.'

'I just want to recognize and honor the sex worker community,' Mikey continued. 'I will continue to support and be an ally. All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

Mikey accepted the Oscar for her portrayal as the title sex worker in director Sean Baker's Anora

The film, which also stars Mark Eydelshteyn (left), follows Anora as her life is thrown into chaos after marrying the son of a Russian oligarch

Anora took home several awards at the 2025 Oscars, including Best Director and Best Picture

She also took the opportunity to thank her fellow nominees  including Demi Moore, who was a top contender for Best Actress for her performance in The Substance.

Fernanda Torres was also nominated for her role in I'm Still Here, as well as Wicked's Cynthia Erivo and Emilia Perez's Karla Sofia Gascon.

'I also just want to recognize the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of my fellow nominees. I'm honored to be recognized alongside all of you. This is a dream come true,' Mikey said.

She then thanked her twin brother Miles, who was in the audience as Mikey accepted her first Oscar award. In addition to her twin, Mikey also has two older sisters and another brother. Both of her parents are psychologists.

In Sean Baker's Anora  which also won Best Picture and Best Director at this year's Oscars ceremony  Mikey plays the title sex worker, whose life is thrown into chaos after she elopes with the son of a Russian oligarch in Las Vegas.
Lauren Sanchez looked like she was ready to walk down the aisle as she appeared at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night on the arm of her fiance, Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos.

The bride-to-be stunned in a formfitting, strapless white gown with a feathered hem and train as she entered the fete.

Sanchez wore her hair in long, loose waves, showing off her toned arms as she posed with her hands on her hips.

She completed the look with a chunky, emerald necklace, and, of course, her engagement ring.

In another set of photos, the star posed with Bezos, as she lovingly locked arms with the businessman, who was in a black velvet suit.

In another snap, she put her hand on his chest with a sweet smile.

Bezos even accessorized his outfit with a white bowtie - perhaps a hint at the dress code for their upcoming nuptials.

The couple posed for multiple photos before heading into the party, which takes place in Beverly Hills.

Lauren Sanchez looked like she was ready to walk down the aisle as she appeared at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night on the arm of her fiance, Amazon tycoon Jeff Bezos

In another set of photos, the star posed with Bezos, as she lovingly locked arms with the businessman, who was black velvet suit

Bezos even accessorized his outfit with a white bowtie - perhaps a hint at the dress code for their upcoming nuptials?

However, although they looked ready to wed at the Vanity Fair party, the two have largely stayed silent on their plans.

Bezos popped the question to Sanchez in May 2023, while they were on vacation in the South of France.

When Bezos proposed to her, Sanchez admitted that she 'blacked out,' as he hid the ring box under her pillow after they had dinner on his yacht, per Vogue.

Their engagement came four years after they went public with their relationship in early 2019.

Last Christmas, it was rumored that the two would get married and have a lavish ceremony in Aspen, Colorado, but Bezos shut down the chatter, and they have continued to keep their wedding plans under wraps.

But even without a date given to the public, Sanchez has dropped a few hints that she's started to plan, revealing during a November 2024 appearance on TODAY that she was using social media platform Pinterest to get inspiration for her wedding.

She's also been wearing white more than ever, as she donned a two-piece, plunging white Alexander McQueen pants suit to Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20.

The bride-to-be also opted for a skintight, curve-hugging white dress while celebrating 50 years of designer Diane Von Furstenberg in Los Angeles in October.

Their engagement came just four years after they went public with their relationship in early 2019

When Bezos proposed to her, Sanchez admitted that she 'blacked out,' as he hid the ring box under her pillow after they had dinner on his yacht, per Vogue

She's also been wearing white more than ever, as she donned a two-piece, plunging white Alexander McQueen pants suit to Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20

Last Christmas, it was rumored that the two would get married and have a lavish ceremony in Aspen, Colorado, but Bezos shut down the chatter, and they have continued to keep their wedding plans under wraps

And, when she traveled to Dallas, Texas, to a Barnes and Noble to do a reading of her children's book, the mom of three cut a cool, casual-figure in another all-white ensemble.

Sanchez wore a pair of baggy, cream-colored cargo pants, along with a cropped white cardigan and matching tank.

At the time, she accessorized with white sneakers and a pair of thick black glasses.

But while other brides may be stressed out while they plan the wedding of their dreams, Sanchez tries to stay positive.

During an interview last year on Extra TV, host Billy Bush asked if she 'ever got negative,' to which she responded that she always tries to look on the bright side of things.

'You know what, I really try to stay positive,' she said. 'When someone knocks you down, it's like, "Ah, it's okay, I'll get back up and there will be something else.'"

'I really have the attitude of spreading love and peace and happiness, that's what really feels good,' she continued.

'I want to make someone else's day better.'
Oscars night should have been a moment of triumph for Georgina Chapman who once may have wondered if she'd ever walk a red carpet again after the crimes of her ex-husband Harvey Weinstein were exposed.

But a glorious comeback for the British fashion designer on the arm of Best Actor winner Adrien Brody was tainted by her partner's bizarre behaviour, which saw him toss his chewing gum to her before he went on stage to accept his gong.

Worse still, Marchesa designer Georgina had to stand awkwardly by when Halle Berry descended on her Brody and grabbed him for a lingering kiss - as 'payback' for the time he did the same to her at the 2003 ceremony, just after he won his Academy Award for The Pianist.

'I'm sorry, Georgina, but I've gotta do it,' Halle declared as she interrupted his chat with red carpet reporters at Dolby Theatre in California, and while the mother-of-two tried to act as thought she was 'unbothered by the moment', a body language expert claims that her expressions 'tell a different story'.

Indeed, she tried to show what a good sport she was by throwing an arm around Halle and smiling at her, while the actress turned her head away and continued her conversation with Adrien, leaving Georgina hanging.

Although the kiss between Brody and Berry was an inside joke, it certainly overshadowed Georgina as the Best Actor's leading lady - not least because her return to the red carpet has been so incredible.

When news of Weinstein's crimes emerged in 2017, she didn't go out in public for five months and cancelled the runway show for her fashion label Marchesa, which was considered dead in the water - especially after it emerged that the disgraced movie mogul had been forcing actresses to wear her designs against their will.

However, her relationship with Adrien has seen her move firmly back on to the A-list with the actor paying tribute to her in his speeches as he's swept the board during awards season.

Inbaal added that Georgina's laughter 'appears exaggerated' as she 'bends over in apparent amusement, but her eyes never leave the back of Halle's neck'

Speaking to FEMAIL, one body language expert remarked on the wince-worthy encounter, which saw the British fashion designer, 48, stand by and giggle as she was embroiled in the exchange

While Halle brought Georgina in on the joke yesterday, the exchange still appeared to be an awkward one

Analysing last night's kiss with Halle Berry, body language expert Inbaal Honigman - working with Covers.com - told Femail: 'On the red carpet, Halle Berry approaches Adrien Brody and gives him a deliberately unromantic kiss,' body language expert Inbaal Honigman - working with Covers.com - explained.

'Their arms are around each other, but Halle's hand is flexed against Adrien's shoulder, creating a slight pushing motion rather than pulling him closer. Meanwhile, her other hand hooks around his neck, putting her firmly in control of the joke-kiss.

'This playful moment recreates their infamous Oscars moment from 2003, when Halle presented Adrien with his Best Actor Academy Award, and he spontaneously kissed her on stage.

This time, however, it's an inside joke, but with Halle dictating the interaction.

'Adrien's partner, Georgina Chapman, acts as though she is unbothered by the moment, but her body language tells a different story.

'She throws her arms wide and turns her palms upwards, a symbolic gesture of welcoming Halle into the joke. However, when she claps, her hands rise unnaturally high, covering her body, suggesting a protective instinct rather than genuine enthusiasm.'

Inbaal added that Georgina's laughter 'appears exaggerated' as she 'bends over in apparent amusement, but her eyes never leave the back of Halle's neck'.

'This forced reaction suggests that her giggles are purely for show,' she continued.

It's not the only time the couple's relationship took centre stage at the Oscars on Sunday. Even as Adrien snagged Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist, it was his and Georgina's romance that appeared in the spotlight as the star - realising he still had gum in his mouth while running up to accept the award - turned around and threw it back to his girlfriend

Adrien also mentioned Georgina in his acceptance speech, thanking his partner and the two children she shares with jailed Weinstein. Georgina and her ex in 2017

'Adrien picks up on it, and in response, he turns to Georgina and kisses her, a silent reassurance that she is the one who truly has his heart.'

It's not the only time the couple's relationship took centre stage at the Oscars on Sunday.

Even as Adrien snagged Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist, it was his and Georgina's romance that appeared in the spotlight as the star - realising he still had gum in his mouth while running up to accept the award - turned around and threw it back to his girlfriend.

'Love or hate the gum moment, it reveals the depth of their connection,' Inbaal observed.

'He instinctively knew who to turn to, and she anticipated his need before he even voiced it.'

Adrien also mentioned Georgina in his acceptance speech, thanking his partner and the two children she shares with jailed Weinstein.

'I know its been a rollercoaster,' he gushed. 'Thank you for accepting me into your life' - as he revealed the two youngsters call him 'Popsy.'

Georgina first became romantically linked with Adrien in 2019, marking her first relationship since her 2017 split from disgraced film producer Harvey.

The British-both mother-of-two has been a regular fixture as the proud partner of Adrien , who has swept this awards season as he also this month took home the BAFTA for Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist. Both pictured in 2021

She and the actor  an arty New Yorker who was single after splitting with model Lara Lieto  were invited to the launch of Helena Christensen's swimwear line in Puerto Rico in April of that year.

The relationship took off quietly, only publicly emerging in early 2020. A source said: 'She thinks he's unusual. She finds [him] to be an interesting person with a deep passion for his work that is similar to hers.'

When news of Weinstein's horrific crimes against women first broke in 2017, his Georgina didn't go out in public for five months and cancelled the runway show for her fashion label Marchesa.

The relationship took off quietly, only publicly emerging in early 2020. A source said: 'She thinks he's unusual. She finds [him] to be an interesting person with a deep passion for his work that is similar to hers.'

Common wisdom was that no celebrity would ever wear the brand again, especially after it emerged that actresses including Sienna Miller and Felicity Huffman were pressured into wearing the label, which was propped up by former movie mogul Weinstein's own investment.

It's all the more remarkable, then, to now see Georgina re-established as one of the queens of the award season red carpet - and not only because celebrities are wearing her gowns again.

The British-both mother-of-two has been a regular fixture as the proud partner of Adrien, who has swept this awards season as he also this month took home the BAFTA for Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist.

He even thanked Georgina when he won his Golden Globe in January, hinting at her difficulties when he paid tribute to her 'own resilience'.

The designer found herself retreating from the spotlight in a bid to give Weinstein's victims the 'dignity and respect' they deserved, and described the quiet months that followed her ex-husband's downfall as a time for 'mourning'.

In 2020, Weinstein was sentenced to 23 years behind bars for third-degree rape and criminal sexual assault for incidents involving two women.

While Georgina herself has, of course, done nothing wrong, it would have surprised nobody if she quietly faded into the background due to the pressure of public attention proving too much.

And with Adrien's star status rising again after some years in the wilderness, she finds herself once again part of a Hollywood power couple in a turn of events that seemed so unlikely a mere seven years ago. Both pictured in 2021

However, she's been gradually making it back on to the social scene in recent years, and has been pictured at high-profile gatherings with celebrities such as David Beckham, Helena Christensen and Stella McCartney.

And with Adrien's star status rising again after some years in the wilderness, she finds herself once again part of a Hollywood power couple in a turn of events that seemed so unlikely a mere seven years ago.

In 2021, the couple made their first red carpet appearance together. The months passed, love seemingly deepened and in 2022 they both went to the Vanity Fair Oscars party in March and the Met Gala in May.

By the time the pair were seen at the Venice film festival in September 2022, he had moved into Chapman's farmhouse in upstate New York.

They live there with her mother, her two children she shares with Harvey, and a menagerie of pets including ponies, dogs, cats and chickens.

Adrien was catapulted to international fame with his Oscar-winning performance in The Pianist (2002), where he portrayed the Polish-Jewish pianist Wadysaw Szpilman, earning critical acclaim and a Best Actor Academy Award.

Following his breakout role, he continued to build an eclectic career, starring in films like King Kong (2005), The Darjeeling Limited (2007), and Predators (2010)

However, Adrien's rise to the top has also been scuppered by a series of avoidable controversies.

Adrien's rise to the top has also been scuppered by a series of avoidable controversies. In March 2003, he planted an unexpected kiss on Halle Berry as he accepted his Oscar - which baffled audiences and the actress has criticised him for

Just months later, the rising star was invited to host SNL where he wore a dreadlock wig and put on a Jamaican accent to introduce the musical guest of the night Sean Paul (pictured)

In March 2003, the up-and-coming actor - who had been trying to get his big break since he was 15 - planted an unexpected kiss on Halle Berry as he accepted his Oscar, a move which baffled audiences and the actress has criticised him for.

Months later, Adrien found himself in hot water again when he wore a dreadlock wig and put on a Jamaican accent to introduce Sean Paul on Saturday Night Live. He recently joked that he was never invited back.

Later that year, he attended P Diddy's private MTV Movie Awards after-party and has been pictured several times with the rapper, who is facing life in prison if he is found guilty of a racketeering charge.

However, the actor's somewhat tainted public image may be about to change for the better again - following his revered performance in The Brutalist.

And if it weren't for his partner, he admits he would never have returned to the spotlight.

Georgina persuaded him he wasn't doing what he loved and so slowly he started saying yes to parts rather than throwing the scripts in the bin.

And it paid off for both of them when the Blonde star accepted a Golden Globe for his latest film The Brutalist, he gave his thanks to Georgina, saying: 'To my beautiful and amazing partner Georgina.

'Your generosity of spirit, your own resilience, your immense creativity, are a daily reminder of how to be. I would not be standing here before you if it wasn't for you.

Adrien Brody, David Beckham and Georgina Chapman at the Whitby Hotel in New York in May 2024

'There was a time not too long ago that I felt this may never be a moment afforded to me again, so thank you.'

In an interview with Vogue this year, Adrien talked about having an art studio to paint in at their farmhouse. And Georgina told the magazine: 'If he's in the midst of inhabiting a role, he's up in the office, reading, covered in cats.'

She added that acting 'exhausts him, because he gives so much. He's very sensitive, he has a thin veil emotionally with the world'.

Georgina was born in London, and grew up in the leafy town of Richmond. Her father founded the coffee firm Percol and her mother worked for Readers Digest. Her younger brother, Edward, is currently the CEO of Marchesa.

She was born with a hip defect and had dyslexia that was undiagnosed until the age of eight, which led to 'terrible anxiety' in class.

In her teens, Georgina modelled to pay the bills and harboured ambitions of becoming an actress.

She graduated from the Wimbledon School of Art in 2001 and started off designing costumes for theatre and film.

When she was 18 she took a train to Hull to visit the drama studies department of a college, but the train broke down. While she waited, she got talking to the then unknown young actor, David Oyelowo. They became lifelong friends and she stayed with him and his family after the scandal surrounding her ex-husband broke.

At around the same time she began Marchesa, Georgina started dating Harvey Weinstein after meeting him at a party. They married in 2007 (pictured in 2016)

Georgina met Keren Craig when they were both 17, at the Chelsea College of Art and Design, and in 2004 started their own label, Marchesa.

At around the same time she began Marchesa, Georgina started dating Weinstein after meeting him at a party.

For the 2004 premiere of the Miramax [Weinsteins old company] film Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, Renee Zellweger wore an outfit from the label.

The speed with which Marchesa became a success raised some eyebrows. In 2006, the Los Angeles Times published an article titled 'The Harvey Factor?' which observed: 'Competitors complain that Marchesa dresses are worn on the red carpet because the stars - and their agents, managers and lawyers - need to please the powerful Weinstein. Say the word "Marchesa" and publicists groan.'

The New York Times reported that he made 'timely contributions in amounts the company would not disclose'.

Cate Blanchett wore a Marchesa mini to the Rome premiere of The Aviator in 2005, while Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and Diane Kruger also graced the red carpet in its gowns. The label was named Red Carpet Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards in 2007.

Weinstein married Georgina at his waterfront Connecticut estate in December 2007 before an A-list crowd that included Jennifer Lopez and her husband Marc Anthony, Cameron Diaz, Renee Zellweger and Naomi Watts.

According to People magazine, the pair exchanged vows in an intimate winter ceremony under the stars, and topped it off with a grand fireworks display.

'Harvey looked the happiest he's ever looked,' said a source. 'Georgina was absolutely glowing.'

Guests watched from huge tents decorated with crystal chandeliers and fir trees as fireworks exploded off a barge in nearby Long Island Sound.

The crowd broke into cheers after the 10-minute spectacle, which was followed by music from a live band, and the party continued until 1am.

The guest list for the glamorous wedding included media mogul Rupert Murdoch, Quentin Tarantino, Vogue's Anna Wintour, and models Karolina Kurkova and Helena Christensen.

In October 2017, the New York Times and The New Yorker published a series of allegations against Weinstein, including three accusations of rape.

Among the women who made accusations were actresses Rose McGowan and Ashley Judd. He then became the face of the #MeToo movement after dozens of women came forward alleging sexual abuse.

In the days afterwards, Georgina announced her decision to leave him.

'My heart breaks for all the women who have suffered tremendous pain because of these unforgivable actions,' she said.

'I have chosen to leave my husband. Caring for my young children is my first priority.'

At the time, Weinstein said he supported her decision but added he hoped they could 'rebuild' their relationship.

'I am in counselling and perhaps, when I am better, we can rebuild,' he said.

'I understand, I love her and I love our children and hopefully, when I am better, I will be in their lives again.'

In January 2018, it was reported that she and the producer had reached a divorce settlement that would see her get up to $20million as well primary custody of their children.

Those children are now 13 and 11. Their three older half-siblings - all girls - from Harvey's first marriage, are thought to choose not to see him, but the two youngsters do.

They have visited their father in Wende prison and the prison ward of Bellevue hospital, both in New York, where he has previously been held. They also have Zoom calls with him.

He has been hospitalised at various points during his sentence, which he is currently serving at Rikers Island in New York, due to his poor health: he uses a wheelchair, is going blind, and has diabetes, arthritis, spinal stenosis, anaemia, sleep apnoea, high blood pressure and coronary artery disease.

A source close to Weinstein said: 'He sees his two children by Georgina; they talk to him on the phone, too. He has maintained a good relationship with them. Being close to them means the world to him. There's no acrimony with Georgina. He's happy for her and hopes that continues to be the case.

'They have a cordial relationship. They talk about things that are necessary for the children and that's about it.'
Fashion fans have been left baffled by 'depression core' hairstyles worn at a Prada Winter fashion show last week.

During Milan Fashion show last week, the designer fashion brand Prada debuted their Fall-Winter 2025/2026 collection at the the Prada Foundation warehouse.

But many were left puzzled by the unconventional hairstyles showcased on the runway - with some viewers saying that several of the curated looks appeared as though they had been 'slept in', with some calling it 'depression hair'.

The collection, which is called 'Raw Glamour', sparked controversy after showcasing 'dishevelled' looks, with many noting the avant-garde garments contrasted starkly with the unpolished looks.

One eagle-eyed fashion critic, @ly.as0, shared a video on TikTok revealing some of the looks, which featured shabby ponytails with static fizz and un-brushed locks.

Several were left in hysterics by the unique style, with dozens saying it mirrored what their hair looked like during 'major depressive episodes'.

'Ooooh, so I have Prada hair, not chronic depression hair. Nice,' one said, while another dubbed the look 'depression core'.

'My depression hair will now be called Prada hair,' a third added.

Fashion fans have been left baffled by ' depression core' hairstyles worn at a Prada Winter fashion show last week

Last week at the the Prada Foundation warehouse during Milan Fashion Week , the designer fashion brand, Prada, debuted their Fall-Winter 2025/2026 collection

'You can achieve this look by putting your hair in a low ponytail and sleeping on it for a night,' another joked.

'You know this just feels like rich people cosplaying homeless or middle/ low income people and calling in chic,' another complained.

'So I am wearing Prada every morning when I stand up,' one penned.

Writing on the winter collection, Vogue Arabia described the dressed-down look as the birth of a 'raw glamour trend'.

The publication described looks as a contrast between 'raw aesthetics and sophisticated touches', with garments 'vaguely inspired by the 1960s'.

Describing the collection, a designer from the fashion house explained: 'Detached from their primary function, fragments of garments move freely on the body, freed from their original function and language.

'Unrecognisable, they push us to question their origin. With each movement, their meaning is transformed, giving birth to new silhouettes shaped by their interactions.'

The collection was created by Italian designer, Miuccia Prada and Belgian designer, Raf Simons, and was described by the fashion house and 'itself an exercise in posing questions and provoking discussion'.

But many were left puzzled by the unconventional hairstyles showcased on the runway, with some viewers saying that several of the curated looks appeared as though they had been 'slept in'

The collection, which is called 'Raw Glamour', sparked controversy after showcasing 'dishevelled' looks, with many noting the avant-garde garments contrasted starkly with the unpolished looks

Writing on the winter collection, Vogue Arabia described the dressed-down look as the birth of a 'raw glamour trend'

One eagle-eyed fashion critic, @ly.as0, shared a video on TikTok revealing some of the looks, which featured shabby ponytails with static fizz and un-brushed locks

The collection questions 'what does femininity mean today,' according to the brand, 'itself an exercise in posing questions, provoking discussion, around our collective perception of the typicality of femininity, about notions of beauty, about how those perceptions can constantly change.

It comes after a number of celebrities were spotted walking the runway at Milan fashion week.

Nepo babies Romeo Beckham and Lila Moss turned heads as they strutted the runway, both modelling for Versace.

The son of David and Victoria Beckham, 22, and the daughter of supermodel Kate Moss, also 22, were among those modelling at Friday's Autumn Winter 2025 show.

Both nepo babies have made their mark on the fashion world in recent years, with Romeo recently signing with top Paris fashion agency Safe Management and Lila featuring in campaigns for the likes of Pepe Jeans.

Commenting on the video, several subbed the unconventional looks 'major depressive episode core'

Romeo put on a striking display in a silver metallic vest complete with a mesh panelling and cut outs. He wore the vest with black pleated trousers, snake print boots and a pair of black leather bejewelled gloves.

Meanwhile Lila opted for casual chic as she modelled a torn black sweatshirt dress, which featured a metallic silver panel cut-out.

Lila's dress also featured a black and silver lace and mesh style mini skirt, which she wore with a pair of shin-high leather platform boots.

Also in attendance at the show was Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy, 48, who looked dapper in a black tailcoat suit as he he sat to enjoy the show while sat next to Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.
Martin Lewis has issued an urgent warning to British couples who could be missing out on a 1,260 tax break.

The Manchester-born finance guru, 52, revealed the tip to excited viewers on an episode of The Martin Lewis Money Show.

According to the money man, married couples or those in a civil partnership - provided one partner was born after April 5 1935 - could be eligible to earn 252 each tax year.

Perhaps even more thrilling is that you can backdate your claim by up to four years, resulting in an astounding ,1260 total gain.

To be eligible, one partner must be a non tax payer, while the other should be paying the basic 20 per cent tax from their salary.

To apply for the 'Marriage Allowance', the non tax payer must head to gov.uk and fill out an application form.

There is however one nagging thing - you've got to apply before the end of the tax year which cuts off on April 5th.

In a snippet captured on X, Martin explained: 'It works provided one of you is aged under around 90. Specifically one of you needs to have been born under the 5th of April 1935' he said.

Martin Lewis (pictured) has issued an urgent warning to British couples who could be missing out on a 1,260 tax break

He then broke down important details such as each person's 'personal allowance' and the set income needed to be eligible.

A personal allowance is the amount you are permitted to earn per year without having to pay tax. Most people have a yearly personal allowance of 12,570.

'One of you needs to be a non-tax payer, so you are not earning your full personal allowance you can earn before you start paying tax on it' said Martin.

For those who work part-time or volunteer, the TV host ensured they could still be eligible as long as 'you don't pay income tax'.

'The other [partner] needs to be paying the highest rate of tax they pay - the basic 20 per cent rate of tax' he explained.

'Then what happens is this... each of you have your 12,570 personal allowance - that's the amount you can earn that you don't pay tax on each year'.

He revealed the next step was crucial to gaining the tax break, and advised watchers to take note.

'So the non tax payer can apply to gov.uk to move 10 per cent of their tax free allowance across to the basic rate tax payer'.

According to the money man, married couples or those in a civil partnership - provided one partner was born after April 5 1935 - could be eligible to earn 252 each tax year (stock image)

This would reduce the non taxpayer's personal allowance to 11,310, while increasing the tax payer's combined tax-free allowance to 13,830.

This extends their personal tax-free allowance from 12,570 to 13,830, thus reducing the overall amount they will pay have to pay income tax on for the year.

'Remember they would have paid tax on it at 20 per cent' he added.

'So the gain there is 252 a year'. And pointing to an explanatory diagram, he said 'as long as the person on this side [the basic tax payer] is earning over 13,830, you're always going to be net up if there's a non tax payer and a taxpayer'.

He then delighted viewers with the news that eligible couples could backdate claims to the past four years, meaning they could gain a whopping 1,260 from a total of five tax years.

The major update could affect as many as 2.1 million couples, who Martin warned should fill in application forms 'quickly'.

According to the gov.uk, a Marriage Allowance works by allowing you to transfer 1,260 of your personal (tax free) allowance to your husband, wife or civil partner (pictured: The Martin Lewis Money Show)

'Now you need to do this quickly because this year, it's each tax year, and the tax year ends on the 5th of April' he said.

But a spanner in the works means you may have to set a reminder to apply at a later date.

While Martin directed viewers to gov.uk to fill out the form, he said that the application system was down for two weeks owing to essential maintenance works. 'Terrible timing' he joked.

He added that those who applied by post and were yet to receive a response after three months should contact their local government office again.

According to the gov.uk, a Marriage Allowance works by allowing you to transfer 1,260 of your personal (tax free) allowance to your husband, wife or civil partner.

This would then reduce the amount of tax you have to pay per tax year by up to 252.

'To benefit as a couple, you (as the lower earner) must normally have an income below your Personal Allowance - this is usually 12,570' explained the site.

It also warned: 'When you transfer some of your personal allowance to your husband, wife or civil partner you might have to pay more tax yourself, but you could still pay less as a couple'.

For anyone having trouble understanding the tax break, the government website provided a detailed example.

'Your income is 11,500 and your personal allowance is 12,570, so you do not pay tax' it read.

'Your partners income is 20,000 and their personal allowance is 12,570, so they pay tax on 7,430 (their taxable income). This means as a couple you are paying Income Tax on 7,430.

'When you claim Marriage Allowance you transfer 1,260 of your personal allowance to your partner. Your personal allowance becomes 11,310 and your partner gets a tax credit on 1,260 of their taxable income.

'This means you will now pay tax on 190, but your partner will only pay tax on 6,170. As a couple you benefit, as you are only paying Income Tax on 6,360 rather than 7,430, which saves you 214 in tax'.
Ella Mills, 33, said she wants to 'simplify' health advice

Plant-based food influencer Deliciously Ella has claimed the wellness industry is 'overdue some sanity', but warned that the UK is currently facing a 'health crisis'.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Ella Mills, who is the daughter of Sainsbury's heiress Camilla Sainsbury and former Northern Ireland secretary Shaun Woodward, said much of the advice posted online was 'categorically untrue'.

The 33-year-old, who is the founder of the health-conscious nutrition brand, Deliciously Ella, said a significant portion of health advice dished out by online food influencers is 'not dooable or relatable'.

She told the publication that much of what is now shared online is 'categorically not true', pointing to recent Instagram posts she had seen promoting ice baths and consuming high volumes of raw eggs.

'I have been in this industry since it exploded a decade ago and I really feel we are overdue some sanity,' she said, adding that she felt strongly about 'taking the pressure off people'.

The mother-of-two recently began her podcast, The Wellness Scoop, co-hosted her friend the nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert.

Ella said she hoped to 'simplify' health advice and debunk 'myths' within nutrition and wellness on the new podcast, which first debuted in February.

But running alongside sinister online foods trends, Ella pointed to the growing 'health crisis' in the UK.

Plant-based food influencer Deliciously Ella has claimed the wellness industry is 'overdue some sanity', but warned that the UK is currently facing a 'health crisis' (pictured)

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Ella Mills, who is the daughter of Sainsbury's heiress Camilla Sainsbury and former Northern Ireland secretary Shaun Woodward, reflected on what she described as a 'crisis' in both health and wellness worlds

The health guru insisted that the west is currently in the midst of an 'ongoing health crisis', blaming ultra-processed foods for unhealthy eating habits.

Ella compared the high rates of ultra-processed foods consumption and the impact on health as akin to 'smoking'.

'I think the crisis in metabolic health caused by UPFs here and throughout the western world is comparable to smoking.

'That means theres an obligation to provide credible advice backed by science  anything which damages that credibility unnecessarily makes me angry,' she said.

Recent studies have revealed that one in five people in the UK currently get 80 per cent of their calories from ultra-processed foods - or UPFS.

Ella also pointed to data that had revealed only one in four consume their five portions of fruits and vegetables a day - and that 90 per cent of people aren't consuming enough fibre.

She noted that many are resistant to change, even in the face of concerning data and that Brits are often inclined to reject 'being told what to do'.

The health mogul, who has been subject to a barrage of criticism since launching her brand in 2015, said criticism was '100 per cent aimed at female voices in the wellness industry'.

The health guru insisted that the west is currently in the midst of an 'ongoing health crisis', blaming ultra-processed foods for unhealthy eating habits

She said that while she had previously struggled to manage the onslaught from critics 10-years ago, she had since learned to 'stand up' and confront 'what amounts to a clear misogynist tone.'

Elsewhere in the interview, she said was left furious by the latest installment in wellness media, the Netflix drama Apple Cider Vinegar, which tells the tale of serial scammer, Belle Gibson.

In 2013, the Australian health influencer launched her Instagram account claiming to have healed herself of brain cancer by eating wholefoods, but was outed for having made the entire thing up in 2015.

Ella said she had been unable to stomach more than half an hour of the show, calling it 'awful' and saying that Gibson had made a 'mockery' of the industry and others at it's helm.

In 2018, Ella lost her own mother-in-law, the former Labour cabinet minister Tessa Jowell, to brain cancer.

Ella famously founded her nutrition brand while in her second year studying history of art at the University of St Andrews.

After receiving a life-changing diagnosis for PoTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), the mother was left bed-bound and terrified - but eager to make a change to her life for the better.

The nutrition mogul radically changed the way she ate, ditching gluten, refined sugar, meat and diary - all while documenting her journey on a blog called Deliciously Ella.

In January earlier this year, the foodie confessed that she was consciously 'retreating from public life' after she faced years of horrific online trolling

Ella owned the company with her husband Matthew (pictured together)

Shortly after, the PoTs suffer began building her empire brick by brick, publishing a best selling recipe book in 2015 - titled with same name as her blog - and launching a new wave in the modern wellness world.

Later, she began producing vegan health products, selling millions of cereal bars across UK supermarkets.

But amid soaring success, Ella announced last year that she had decided to sell her company, saying she had been 'overwhelmed with fame'.

In September last year, Ella announced that she and her husband, Matthew Mills - with who she co-owns the company - were selling it.

The pair sold their company to the Swiss group Hero, for what is believed to be figure around 70 million.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Ella said the decision to sell had stemmed from a desire to expand, which she said could be better achieved in 'a partnership'.

Her vegan products joined a line of other upmarket health food sold by the Swiss company, including the children and baby snacks, Organix, famed for their posh maize crisps and oat bars.

In a joint statement, the couple admitted the brand how grown 'bigger than either of us could have imagined,' but that the sale has been long deliberated and 'felt right'.

In January, the foodie confessed that she was consciously 'retreating from public life' after she faced years of horrific online trolling.

With fame and seven cookbooks selling more than 1.5million copies worldwide, scrutiny had increased over the years she told The Times.

'Until quite recently I really, really retreated because I felt overwhelmed. I wanted to be essentially vanilla,' Ella said at the time.

Finding it easier to stay silent in the face of what she described as 'personal' and 'incredibly violating' attacks, Ella was at the same time unhappy about having lost her voice.

Ella remedied the problem by removing pictures of herself from socials.

Despite selling, Ella and her husband have maintained control over Plants, a separate part of their business with supplies fresh pasta, kombucha and soups to outlets such as Waitrose.
A Japanese woman 'in her 50s', who allegedly kissed a K-pop idol without his consent, has been summoned by South Korean authorities.

On Friday, Seoul's Songpa police station confirmed that they are requesting a fan who attended the meet and greet event for popstar Jin - a member of supergroup BTS - last year to appear for questioning over an allegation of sexual harassment.

The force refused to disclose her identity, citing privacy. It had launched an investigation after receiving an online complaint and refused to provide further details because an investigation was under way.

While the woman's name cannot be confirmed, social media has circulated footage and photos from the event, including one moment where the star, 32, appears to wince as a fan hugging him on stage seems to dart in for a kiss on his face.

Later, she reportedly wrote in an online blog post that 'her lips touched his neck'.

'His skin was so soft,' she had also boasted, according to Yonhap news agency.

Media reports said that South Korean police were able to confirm the identity of the woman with the help of Japanese police. The woman was said to be refusing to appear for questioning.

The fan event, which took place last year, was set up just one day after Jin, whos real name is Kim Seok-jin, completed his 18-month military service.

On Friday, Seoul's Songpa police station confirmed that they are requesting a fan who attended the meet and greet event for popstar Jin (pictured) - a member of supergroup BTS - last year to appear for questioning over an allegation of sexual harassment

He celebrated his discharge and the band's 11-year anniversary by offering free hugs to his supporters.

Jin had hosted the 'huggathon' for 1,000 wellwishers who won a raffle held on social media platform Weverse, before giving his first performance in two years.

He had said that the event was his idea, and that he had 'initially wanted to hug 3000 fans' but had to agree to a smaller number after HYBE cited safety concerns.

During the festivities however, one woman abruptly kissed Jin on his cheek.

FEMAIL has reached out to BTS's label Hybe for comment.

K-pop is an increasingly thriving industry across the globe, and idols have faced encounters where passionate fans have gone as far as kidnapping their beloved performers.

While the woman's name cannot be confirmed, social media has circulated footage and photos from the event, including one moment where the star, 32, appears to wince as a fan hugging him on stage seems to dart in for a kiss on his face

But there is a dark side to their admiration. Merciless trolling, possessiveness and trolling can just as easily crawl in.

Last year, one of South Korea's biggest stars was pressured to apologise for having a boyfriend after furious fans accused her of betrayal and threatened to boycott her music.

Karina, 24, of girl group aespa, shared a groveling apology letter on her Instagram after her relationship with actor Lee Jae-wook went public.

The idol penned a handwritten letter to fans, in which she promised to 'heal the wounds' she had inflicted after a billboard displaying angry messages was driven on a truck to her agency headquarters, and parked outside in protest.

Musicians have also been threatened with boycotts for having a wife and children, dancing with the opposite sex on stage, and having a on-screen love interest in a music video.

One of the most notorious examples, from 2013, saw Byun Baekhyun, 32, of popular group EXO swarmed by followers when he was attending his brother's wedding.

K-pop megastar Jin from BTS was seen crying tears of joy last summer, after he ended more than 500 days of South Korean military service.

He fell into the arms of his bandmates after emerging from the gates of the army base where he was stationed in South Korea's northern Yeoncheon county.

K-pop megastar Jin from BTS was seen crying tears of joy last summer, after he ended more than 500 days of South Korean military service

The seven members of the world's most popular boy band have been on a self-described 'hiatus' since 2022 due to their military service. Pictured in 2019

The seven members of the world's most popular boy band have been on a self-described 'hiatus' since 2022 due to their military service.

Completion of military service in South Korea is mandatory for all men under 30 due to tensions with nuclear-armed neighbours North Korea.

Jin, the oldest in the group and the first to enlist, he was met by bandmates J-hope, V, RM, Jungkook and Jimin - with leader RM giving a rendition of the group's popular hit Dynamite on the saxophone.

The K-pop stars, who reportedly took leave from duties to mark the day, presented a beaming Jin, still in his military uniform, with a giant bouquet of flowers.

Fans also took the opportunity to congratulate Jin by hanging colourful banners outside the base, with one reading: 'Seok-jin you did so well for the last 548 days. We'll stand by you with our unwavering love'.

A giant balloon flew in front with the message: 'Worldwide handsome Seok-jin! Congratulations on your discharge.'

Yeoncheon county put up its own banner that read: 'BTS Jin, The last year and a half was a joy for us. Yeoncheon will not forget you!'

Having been urged not to congratulate Jin in person prior to his release from the military base, only a couple of admirers were present.

Natose Sunagawa, 19, from Tokyo, said: 'Although my hands were shaking and my muscles stiffened, I was so happy to see him'.

Holding a plush doll of Jin, and with a keyring of Jin's face on her purse, she said she came because she 'wanted to meet him so bad'.

'As all BTS members haven't finished their military service, I believe Jin will release solo materials. I wish to buy his solo albums and go to the concerts,' Sunagawa added, as she wiped away tears.

A post from the official BTS account on X, formerly Twitter, congratulated Jin by uploading a photo of the entire group celebrating the discharge with a cake.

Speaking in a livestream on Weverse, a superfan social media platform, Jin said: 'I'm normally more handsome than this, but I cried when I was discharged. My eyes are puffy. I usually have confidence in my face, but I'm less confident today'.

Showing off his certificates and commendations, Jin mentioned that he 'did well' during his service and cried twice because he was so happy to be home.
Korean actor Lee Jong Suk is at it again with the little but oh-so-swoon-worthy way he shows his support for his girlfriend, K-Pop idol IU.

Dispatch, as per Koreaboo, recently featured the couple, whose four-month relationship included outings for Christmas in Japan.

Also among the items was a recently released hat by designer brand Beyond Closet that was seen on model/actor Lee Jong Suk, who wore one emblazoned with "The Golden Hour."

Sharp-eyed fans were the first to notice this, as they remembered it being the same hat IU sported on her 2022 concert tour.

Lee Jong Suk at the IU concert too?? pic.twitter.com/6lOoOa7P1F   (@chatshirelore) September 18, 2022

On social media, one fan wrote, "So sweet of him to hold support for her like this. To be able to do that, they really care for each other."

His appearance in support was a clear affirmation following the confirmation that the couple was dating. This relationship seemed to be solidified when Lee attended IU's concert in Seoul last year.

The couple also celebrated little moments that showcased their bond, and fans followed along.

Read more: IU and Lee Jong Suk Thrill Fans with Exciting Updates After 2 Years of Dating

The actor's choice to wear the hat appears to express his affection for IU. In an industry where public displays of affection can often lead to negative comments, it is reasonable for the public to interpret this gesture as confirmation of their feelings for one another.

When you're both a fanboy & boyfriend..  Lee Jong Suk wearing The Golden Hour merch of GIRLFRIEND IU!! pic.twitter.com/PkwxBfIiCM  kdrama diary (@kdramasdiary) February 5, 2023

crying and throwing up as i speak pic.twitter.com/kkuqjsVcUP  lee jong suk files | slow uds (@leejongsukfiles) February 4, 2023

#LeeJongSuk in Beyond Closet Instagram Update. He is wearing an IU merchandise!?  pic.twitter.com/FnO8jdvTMY  WithJS  (@LeeJongSukWorld) February 4, 2023

Read more : IU's Ring Stirs Breakup Rumors With Lee Jong Suk on Chinese Internet
Prince Andrew appeared in good spirits today as he took a ride around the Windsor estate.

The Duke of York, 65, set out for an early morning ride on Monday, zipping up in a snug navy jacket to brace the early chill.

Accompanied by a female rider on a dapple grey horse, Andrew enjoyed a sunny ride dressed in navy jodhpurs and long black riding boots.

He was spotted grinning as he made his way through the estate, despite recent allegations made by a masseuse that she felt the way he behaved when she gave him a massage was 'inappropriate' and 'an abuse of his privilege'.

The claims were made in an upcoming memoir by masseuse Monique Giannelloni, 60.

According to Monique, she met Ghislane Maxwell in 2000, and visited her Belgravia home twice to give her massages. A man she now realises was Jeffrey Epstein present.

Maxwell was taken with Monique and said she had a high profile contact she wanted her to work for, hyping her by saying that her next booking would be with somebody more famous than God'.

This turned out to be Prince Andrew - with the session to take place within his suite of rooms at Buckingham Palace.

Prince Andrew appeared in good spirits today as he took a ride around the Windsor estate - as further evidence emerges relating the the Jeffrey Epstein case

Monique was hired to give Andrew a massage at the palace despite 'minimal vetting'.

But this was next to nothing compared to the shock that came next, with the therapist recalling how the prince, who remains 8th in line to the throne, undid his bathrobe and threw off his towel before climbing onto the massage table.

She felt his behaviour at their session was inappropriate: He did not do anything or suggest anything untoward, but I was very uncomfortable and a bit shocked that he had acted like that.

Monique added that she would have 'expected more' from a royal and that she was not 'impressed' by his behaviour.

It was during that summer of 2000 while she was working with both Prince Andrew and Maxwell that the latter suggested she might join her and Epstein for a lavish VIP party on a boat. Maxwell even leered: What happens on the boat stays on the boat.

It was an invitation that Maxwell would repeat several times.

And Monique now believes that Maxwell was attempting to recruit her to be a regular for sex games with Epstein at the parties he laid on for his wealthy friends in those years.

She recalled: It wasnt difficult for me to reject her offers. I just didnt feel right about her boat parties.

The Duke of York, 65, set out for an early morning ride on Monday, zipping up in a snug navy jacket to brace the early chill

Masseuse Monique Giannelloni, 60, reveals how Prince Andrew booked her to massage him at Buckingham Palace

Ms Giannelloni believes that Ghislaine Maxwell attempted to groom her to attend what she now believes were Espteins sordid sex parties

Ms Giannelloni was one of the most sought after massage therapists in the UK, working for high profile clients

It was Andrews choice to be friends with those individuals Ghislaine and Epstein and somehow, I ended up in their world because of my work.

I have a lot of questions and a significant one is: was Ghislaine trying to involve me and Andrew in her sordid lifestyle?

Ms Giannelloni told MailOnline that she remains distressed at belatedly realising how close she came to Epsteins vile circle.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline from her home in the south of France, she said: I had some dark days after all the stuff about Ghislaine and Epstein and their terrible sexual predatory behaviour blew up. It shocked me to think she had tried to lure me into their circle. Andrew should never have been in contact with these people.

Maxwell, 62, was found guilty in December 2021 of helping disgraced financier Epstein sexually abuse young girls.

The high society party girl, daughter of fraudster Robert Maxwell, was sentenced to 20 years in prison in June 2022.

Epstein, her former boyfriend, died by suicide in 2019 in a Manhattan jail cell, five weeks after he was arrested and charged with sex trafficking.

Mother-of-two Monique added: Andrews reputation has been sullied by his friendships with those two people.

The masseuse kept the 75 cheque which was signed by Andrews aide on his behalf after the massage session - in case he should try to later deny they had met.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, donned camo gear and protective eyewear as she participated in drills at a military training centre in Cumbria today.

Sophie, 60, visited the Warcop Training Centre in her role as Royal Honourary Colonel on Monday, March 3.

For her visit, the royal - who recently celebrated her milestone birthday - wore a military camo jacket over a pair of grey skinny jeans and a matching turtleneck.

As the Duchess participated in a live firing exercise, she wore protective eyewear and shooting ear defenders that are designed to block the high-decibel noise produced by gunfire.

Afterwards, she was photographed in conversation with officers at the training centre located in the village of Warcop in Westmoralnd and Furness.

She kept her makeup to a minimum, with Sophie wearing only a hint of mascara and a swipe of lipstick.

She finished her look with a pair of chocolate brown boots and simple gold hoop earrings, with the typically stylish royal opting for a more practical ensemble for today's engagement.

Her appearance follows Sophie's visit to the Royal Air Force (RAF) Wittering base located in Peterborough last month.

Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, donned camo gear and protective eyewear as she participated in drills at a military training centre in Cumbria today

Sophie, 60, visited the Warcop Training Centre in her role as Royal Honourary Colonel on Monday, March 3

The royal is Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Wittering, which is the main operating base and headquarters for the RAF Support Force and an important site for flying training.

Dressed in a green tweed jacket - one of Sophie's favourite's, which she first wore in May 2022 - the smiling duchess appeared delighted to be meeting with members of the RAF Support Force, as well as their little ones.

Making her commitment to her honorary post known, she added a gold RAF 'wings' brooch to the right of her lapel.

Belted at the waist, Sophie's jacket paired perfectly with her wide-leg brown trousers, cream turtleneck and high-heeled tan boots.

Gold jewellery, including a pair of hoop earrings and a pendant necklace, completed her ensemble.

The mother-of-two wore her blond hair brushed back in an elegant chignon for the outing and kept her make-up natural.

During the course of Thursday's visit to RAF Wittering, Sophie met with members of the Mobile Catering Squadron and, perhaps unexpectedly, two of their little girls.

The Duchess appeared especially animated with the young children and did her best to try to get a smile out of one of the toddlers.

Her appearance follows Sophie's visit to the Royal Air Force ( RAF ) Wittering base located in Peterborough last month

Later on, she was seen placing an upside down blue cup on another child's head, so it resembled a hat, which provoked laughter from the little girl and her mother.

Sophie was also given a tour of the base by uniformed officers and could be seen talking to a number of individuals.

Before the end of the outing, she added a message to what appeared to be a visitors book.

Sophie was appointed Honorary Air Commodore in 2008 by the reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II.

In the post, the Duchess is focused on promoting the role of the air force amongst the general public.

Her solo appearance followed the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh's return to the UK after a six-day state visit to Nepal earlier in the month.

During the trip, Sophie and Prince Edward, 60, appeared in high spirits as they immersed themselves in Nepalese culture.

The royal couple donned bright flower garlands as they visited Gurung community centre and museum in Ghandruk, a hill village near Pokhara, on the final day of their trip.

Dressed in a green tweed jacket - one of Sophie's favourite's, which she first wore in May 2022 - the smiling duchess appeared delighted to be meeting with members of the RAF Support Force, as well as their little ones

Making her commitment to her honorary post known, she added a gold RAF 'wings' brooch to the right of her lapel

Sophie was appointed Honorary Air Commodore in 2008 by the reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II

Sophie met with officers during her outing to RAF Wittering located in Peterborough

The Duchess was seen signing what appeared to be a visitors book towards the end of her outing

The Gurung villages share historic links to the British Army, and many young Nepalis from the area are recruited into the Brigade of Gurkhas, which are units of the British Army.

Sophie and Edward's visit celebrated close relations between the UK and Nepal, with King Charles previously visiting in 1998 before Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip's trip in 1961.

Sophie, dressed in hiking gear, mirrored the locals and put her hands together to greet community members during the tour.

Meanwhile, Edward, who also opted for practical attire in a khaki puffer jacket and navy trousers, followed suit while walking behind his wife.

Edward, who was made Duke of Edinburgh in 2023, and his wife also visited the Annapurna Conservation Area in Nepal on Saturday.

The Annapurna range is part of the Himalayas, less than 200 miles from Mount Everest, and the region has historic links with the Gurkhas.

Meanwhile, the main Annapurna mountain is, at 26,545 feet tall, the 10th highest peak on Earth, and the overall conservation area covers a just under 3,000 square miles near Nepal's border with Tibet.
The event saw 360 attendees take St George's Hall for Iftar

Windsor Castle made history over the weekend by hosting its first-ever Ramadan event inside St George's Hall.

More than 360 guests from all backgrounds arrived for the Iftar - the fast-breaking evening meal for Muslims during the ninth month of Ramadan.

The Berkshire-based royal residence welcomed attendees for Iftar for the first time in British history last year, but this year's location of St George's Hall is major upgrade from 2024, when it was held in the Learning Centre.

The Royal Collection Trust website reads: 'Break fast with us this Ramadan at Windsor Castle! Open to people of all faiths and none, join us for a visit to the majestic State Apartments, followed by a meal after sunset in the magnificent St George's Hall.'

Guests at the free-to-attend event started with a self-guided tour of the State Apartments at Windsor Castle before taking to St George's Hall, where State banquets are often held, for their 'very special Iftar meal'.

Open Iftar, organised by the award-winning charity Ramadan Tent Project in collaboration with Royal Collection Trust, will host similar events across the UK in the coming weeks, including at Shakespeare's Globe and Brighton & Hove Albion FC.

Omar Salha, Founder and CEO of Ramadan Tent Project, said: 'Breaking our fast and marking the holy month of Ramadan at Windsor Castle, one of the most famous and iconic royal landmarks in the world, is an incredibly surreal and poignant moment to share with people of all faiths and none.

'It serves as a powerful reminder of how proud we are to represent a pillar of Britain's rich cultural ecology celebrating community, belonging and inclusion.

Windsor Castle invited people from all backgrounds to its St George's Hall for Iftar over the weekend (pictured)

'It is an honour to be welcomed back to host Open Iftar at some of Britain's most iconic and loved venues.

'To receive overwhelming interest from new partners and spaces across the capital and the UK is a beautiful tribute to Ramadan.

'Ramadan holds profound significance for millions observing across the UK and many more across the globe. It is a time of deep introspection, reflection, and self-discipline where we connect and engage in worship with family and friends through acts of service and charity.

'We are incredibly grateful to our partners, sponsors, and volunteers for supporting the work of Ramadan Tent Project in turning strangers into friends.'

Elsewhere, Simon Maples, Visitor Operations Director at Royal Collection Trust commented on the events, saying: 'After the success of hosting our first Open Iftar event last year in the Castle's Learning Centre, we were delighted to be able to work with Ramadan Tent Project again this year.

'Even more excitingly, this year we are hosting the event in St George's Hall, the largest of the Castle's magnificent State Apartments, where State Banquets usually take place  meaning that we can welcome more than 350 guests to share an Iftar meal together in this historic setting.

'The event has been a fantastic opportunity to welcome people from the local community and those of all faiths and backgrounds to the Castle, in support of Royal Collection Trust's charitable aim to ensure that the Palaces and the Royal Collection can be enjoyed by everyone.

Pictured: The Call to Prayer live from St George's Hall in Berkshire's Windsor Castle over the weekend

'It has been a team effort from colleagues across the Castle, working closely with Ramadan Tent Project, to deliver such an amazing event.'

It comes after King Charles adopted his first dog in more than 20 years - as he and Queen Camilla welcomed two new puppies to the Royal Family.

The monarch, 76, was given the Lagotto Romagnolo puppy - called Snuff - as a gift four weeks ago, and he is reportedly 'besotted' with the new addition.

Camilla, 77, also confirmed this week that she has adopted a rescue puppy named Moley, months after she was heartbroken to lose her beloved Jack Russell Beth.

Snuff, whose breed is a truffle-hunting dog from Italy, is King Charles' first dog in around two decades.

The King previously had a Jack Russell called Tigga who he adopted shortly after the then-prince started a family with Princess Diana. However, the pup died in 2002 aged 18.

An insider told The Sun that Charles is 'besotted' with his new puppy.

It is understood that the dog was a private gift, with no connection to Charles and Camilla's upcoming visit to Ravenna in northern Italy - where the breed originates.

This year's Iftar location at Windsor Castle received an upgrade from last year's Learning Centre (pictured)

Where else with other Open Iftars take place? King's College Cambridge

Baltic Newcastle Gateshead

Sheffield Kelham Island Museum

V&A Dundee

Cardiff City Stadium

Brighton & Hove Albion FC

Aston Villa FC AFC

Wimbledon Lord's Cricket Ground in partnership with Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB)

Shakespeare's Globe

Shepherd's Bush Market

Belfast City Hall

The MyLahore Glass Marquee, Blackburn

V&A South Kensington

Guildhall City of London

One City Park Bradford Trafalgar Square Advertisement

The source said: 'Charles is besotted with his puppy.

'He hasn't had one since Tigga. The breed is a truffle-hunter.

'Charles enjoys mushroom foraging, so they have a lot in common.'

The Kennel Club note that the name of the breed - Lagotto Romagnolo - is informative about its nature.

'Lagotto is an Italian dialect word for 'curly coated duck retriever' and Romagne was the district in northern Italy where the breed was developed, a landscape of expansive marshes,' the website explains.

'However, the reclamation and draining of the marshes in the early 20th century brought the departure of the ducks and so there was less demand for this retrieving breed.

'However, the acute scenting powers of the Lagotto have been utilised in truffle hunting and this is now his primary use in his native land.

'The breed was recognised by the Italian Kennel Club in 1991 ,and so he is a relative newcomer to the UK, where he has shown his retrieving skills in gundog working tests.'

Camilla confirmed she had also adopted a new puppy last week.

She said: 'I've just got a new puppy, he's eight weeks old.

'It's a rescue dog called Moley. It looks just like a mole.'

It is believed the royal's new pet was rehomed from the world-famous Battersea Dogs and Cats home, where she adopted her dogs Beth and Bluebell in 2011 and 2012 respectively.

Her Majesty was left heartbroken when Beth, a Jack Russell Terrier, died last November.

When the King attended the Royal Variety Performance weeks later, he told TV presenter Amanda Holden - who is an ambassador for the world-famous animal rescue centre in London - that they planned to get a new dog.

The Queen revealed the happy news as she affectionately stroked a guide dog while meeting a partially-sighted museum group in the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge located in the centre of Canterbury's bustling high street.

A Battersea spokesperson said: 'We're pleased to confirm that Battersea has recently rehomed an eight-week-old Jack Russell Terrier cross female puppy, called Moley, to our Patron, Her Majesty The Queen.

'The Queen has long been a supporter of Battersea's work and has previously rehomed two rescue dogs from our charity.'
The fashion designer shares two kids with Harvey, whom she divorced in 2018

Adrien Brody is currently the toast of Tinseltown after winning Best Actor at the 97th Academy Awards, and it seems his love life may have contributed to his recent success.

The 51-year-old has certainly cleaned up this awards season and also won a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and a Critics' Choice Award for his role as Laszlo Toth in The Brutalist.

Brody has been accompanied to the star-studded ceremonies by his girlfriend Georgina Chapman, and has even thanked her in his acceptance speeches, including at the Oscars where he described her as 'amazing.'

The couple are believed to have been dating since 2019 after spending time together at an event at the Dorado Beach Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Puerto Rico in April that year.

According to the New York Post, Chapman was in a 'really dark, awful place' before attending the event for Helena Christensen's swimwear line, due to the breakdown of her marriage to disgraced music mogul Harvey Weinstein.

The 48-year-old fashion designer announced that she was divorcing Weinstein, 72, in October 2017 after more than 100 women made accusations of rape, assault, or sexual harassment against him.

'George's close friends told her "you need to get out of the house," she was in a really dark, awful place, she had isolated herself at home, a friend of Chapman's told The Post.

Referring to her and Brody's romance, the source continued: 'They have absolutely been there for each other through highs and lows.

Oscar winner Adrien Brody pictured with his girlfriend Georgina Chapman at the 97th Academy Awards

Fashion designer Georgina was previously married to Harvey Weinstein, who is currently in prison. The former couple are seen here in 2014

'Their relationship is much more different than the one George had with Harvey, she and Adrien feel more like partners.'

A source also revealed to Page Six that the couple are living together upstate, and during his Oscars speech, Brody appeared to hint that Georgina's two children call him 'popsie.'

Chapman is mother to daughter India, 14, and son Dashiell, 11, from her marriage to Weinstein - who is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in 2020.

It's been reported that Chapman's brand Marchesa suffered following Weinstein's downfall, and she even cancelled the label's Fall 2018 collection.

'Georgina was always the epitome of grace, brilliance, and warmth  even in the most impossible of circumstances,' the insider added to Page Six.

'Anyone who knew her back then could see she was focused on her work, her children, and maintaining a level of dignity that frankly, many wouldn't have been able to manage given the firestorm she was caught in.

'Georgina's career has had its fair share of troubles too, but they try to champion each other personally, they fill each other with love and try to raise each other up,' they added, referring to her and Brody as a couple.

Prior to his romance with Chapman, the King Kong actor was in a relationship with model Elsa Pataky until 2009 and then Russian model Lara Leito for six years.

The happy couple are seen here at the 2025 BAFTA Awards in London on February 16

Adrien and Georgina, pictured here in 2021, have 'been there for each other through highs and lows'

But nowadays, Brody only has eyes for Chapman and posed on the Oscars red carpet alongside her, and was also joined by his parents Sylvia Plachy and Elliot Brody.

The actor was later slammed for throwing a piece of chewing gum to Chapman as he made his way up onto the stage to accept his Best Actor award.

Despite repulsing audiences with the move, Adrien has since defended his actions as he spoke on Live With Kelly and Mark moments after his win.

'I could've swallowed it, but I didn't think about that,' he said. 'I had to get rid of it somehow.'
Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands beamed as they arrived in Cyprus this evening before their state visit, which starts tomorrow.

And it's no wonder they looked relaxed, given the co-pilot on their flight was the monarch himself.

Willem-Alexander, who obtained his Private Pilot's Licence in 1985 and Commercial Pilot's Licence two years later, flew the aircraft and was photographed sitting in the plane's cockpit upon arrival.

Maxima was all smiles as she left the aircraft at Larnaca International Airport and greeted officials who waited for her arrival.

She looked typically fashionable in a sophisticated crimson robe-like coat, which revealed a hint of her paisley-patterned blouse. Maxima completed her airport chic ensemble with classic knee-high brown leather boots.

The mother-of-three styled her honeyed tresses into a sleek updo for the occasion and left a few locks to grace the side of her face.

Father-of-three Willem-Alexander, 57, looked equally dapper in a smart navy suit, matching tie, and crisp white shirt.

The reigning couple are making the two-day trip at the invitation of President Nikos Christodoulides. Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp will accompany Maxima and Willem-Alexander during the brief trip.

King Willem-Alexander of The Netherlands co-pilots plane as he arrives at the airport

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands put on a chic display as she touched down at Larnaca Aiport this evening

The visit, which will focus on cooperation in the areas of security, academia, culture, and sustainability, marks the solid relationship between the Netherlands and Cyprus, according to the palace's website.

The visit follows the news that the Dutch version of The Crown is set for a second season and will explore the reigning couple's fairytale wedding.

Mill Street Films gave fans a sneak peek into the second season of Maxima Zorreguieta: Motherland, set to air in 2026 via Instagram, with an image depicting Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander's 2002 wedding.

The show dramatises the Dutch Queen's upbringing in Argentina and how a chance meeting with the then-Prince Willem-Alexander, 57, changed her life forever.

The new press shot showed Delfina Chaves as Maxima, 53, stood at the altar hand-in-hand with Martijn Lakemeier, who plays Willem-Alexander, as they prepared to say their vows.

'A first sneak peek of the wedding in Maxima season two. Can be seen at Videoland in 2026,' the Instagram caption read.

The mother-of-three arrived alongside her husband, King Willem-Alexander, ahead of their two-day State Visit to Cyprus

The Dutch reigning couple are making the visit at the invitation of President Nikos Christodoulides

The mother-of-three was all smiles as she greeted officials with a handshake after landing at the airport

Th King was seen in the cockpit when arriving in Cyprus ahead of the state visit

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima arriving at Larnaca International Airport on Monday evening

The couple arrived in Cyprus for their two-day State visit, which officially commences tomorrow

Maxima and Willem-Alexander's wedding ceremony took place at the grand 15th century Nieuwe Kirch in Amsterdam in front of guests, including King Charles, Sweden's Crown Princess Victoria, and Norway's Prince Haakon.

The mother-of-three looked stunning in an ivory Mikado silk Valentino gown with a cowl neckline, three-quarter length sleeves, a 16.4ft lace train and a tiara topped with star brooches from Queen Beatrix's collection.

Despite the celebrations, the wedding also sparked national debate as Maxima's father, a long-serving minister for the Argentinian junta, stayed away - an aspect the series will no doubt explore.

Her father, Jorge Horacio Zorreguieta, was involved in a dictatorship responsible for the torture, death, and disappearance of 30,000 people.

Jorge was an established politician, serving as the Minister of Agriculture under the regime of General Jorge Rafael Videla, commander in chief of the army and a member of the right-wing junta that ran Argentina.

His involvement in the dictatorship would later become an issue Maxima was forced to confront. It is remembered as the period of the 'dirty war' against political opponents in Argentina.

The issue was resolved when the Dutch parliament investigating her father's past concluded that Maxima, who'd been in primary school during the junta years, had known nothing of the atrocities.

Jorge wasn't invited or welcome on Dutch soil. Her mother, Maria del Carmen Cerruti Carricart, also stayed away from the wedding.

57-year-old Willem-Alexander put on a dapper display in a navy suit, light blue tie, and crisp white shirt

When the State visit commences tomorrow, the couple will be accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs Caspar Veldkamp

Pictured: Queen Maxima greeting officials after touching down in Cyprus alongside King Willem-Alexander

'As a daughter I find it terrible that my father won't be there but that's the way it is, and I understand the feelings of the Dutch on the question,' Maxima said at the time.

In the series, Maxima's father is played by Daniel Freire and her mother is characterised by Cesina Stefanini Borella.

Delfina, 29, takes on the role of the Dutch Queen. She is already a mega star in Maxima's home country - having appeared in hit shows such as Love After Loving, Rap Battlefield and The Secret of the Greco Family.

The glitzy adaptation, comprising three directors, Saskia Diesing, Joosje Duk, and Ivan Lopez Nunez, is based on the historical novel of the same name by Marcia Luyten.

The first season follows Maxima's transition into royal life and the obstacles she had to overcome along the way, including the tragic death of a sister and the Dutch public's anger about her father's involvement in the military junta.

Maxima spent her childhood in Buenos Aires with two brothers, one sister and three half-sisters.

The future Queen was educated at the English-style Northlands school in the city, where she received a bilingual baccalaureate in 1988, speaking fluently in her native Spanish and English. She later learned to speak Dutch as well as conversational French.

She went on to study at the Universidad Catolica Argentina, where she graduated with a degree in economics in 1995

Willem-Alexander, who has both his private and commercial pilot's license, was photographed in the cockpit

The royal duo, who are parents to three daughters, travelled via car after landing at the airport this evening

Pictured: Queen Maxima and King Willem-Alexander's aircraft in Larnaca International Airport, Cyprus

While at university, Maxima revealed her strong-willed nature by confronting a priest in a theology class who said 'women should serve men' to which she retorted 'why am I actually studying then?' leading her to be removed from the class.

After graduating, she had a brief stint working in Buenos Aires before relocating to the United States where she took on a series of high-flying roles.

These included being vice president of Latin American Institutional Sales for the finance house HSBC James Capel Inc. in New York before moving to Deutsche Bank, where she became vice president of Institutional Sales.

Little did she know that in April 1999, while on holiday in Seville, she would meet the love of her life.

The pair had both been attending a party at the annual Seville Spring Fair where she bumped into her future husband - then-Prince Willem-Alexander.

Although they were in a serious relationship, Maxima did her best to keep the prince's identity secret.

She said: 'I would tell them something different (about Willem) every time, but at some point, there was nothing for it other than to say: 'He's the Prince of the Netherlands.'

The next year, in May 2000, Maxima relocated to work at the European Union Representative Office of Deutsche Bank in Brussels, Belgium.

Soon after the move, in 2001, Willem proposed to Maxima while ice-skating on a pond near Huis ten Bosch Palace.

The couple were married on 1 February 2002 at Amsterdam's Nieuwe Kerk, however, it was not straightforward leading up to the wedding and her father's past threatened their marriage.

It became a point of national debate in the Netherlands whether Maxima could become part of the royal family because of her father's ties with the right-wing junta that ran Argentina.
The actress, 33, has previously made comments about CEOs with private jets

Pauline Chalamet was seen approaching the couple inside the Oscars ceremony

Kylie Jenner appeared to enjoy small talk with Timothee Chalamet's sister at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, despite rumors of a feud between the two women.

Earlier this year, fans suspected that Pauline Chalamet made a thinly-veiled dig at her younger brother's girlfriend when she shared a scathing message about billionaires on her Instagram Story.

In January, Pauline, 33, posted a screenshot of a tweet from Bernie Sanders which encouraged people to 'fight back' against wealthy people and added her own caption in which she said: 'Billionaires do not need to exist.'

The post was quickly deleted, but not before various people grabbed it, posted it on Reddit and suggested that Pauline was making a dig at Kylie, who was previously named the world's youngest 'self-made' billionaire by Forbes back in 2019.

However, it seems there may be no hard feelings between Pauline and Kylie as the two women were seen conversing at the 2025 Oscars ceremony on March 2.

In various photos, Pauline can be seen standing right in front of Kylie - who was seated next to Timothee - and chatting away to the 27-year-old mother of two.

Due to the angle at which the photographs were taken, Kylie's facial expressions cannot be seen - but Timothee was all smiles as he shared a moment with his older sibling.

The 29-year-old, who lost out on the Best Actor award for his role in the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, and his reality TV star girlfriend were sat in the front row for the ceremony, which was held at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.

Kylie Jenner came face-to-face with her boyfriend Timothee Chalamet's sister Pauline (left) at the 2025 Oscars

Pauline was seen approaching Timothee and Kylie as they sat in the front row for the ceremony at the Dolby Theater

Kylie conversed with Pauline, while Timothee had a chat with his A Complete Unknown costar Elle Fanning

Meanwhile, Pauline and their mother Nicole Flender were clearly sat elsewhere - but Timothee was pictured holding hands with his mom when he first arrived at the star-studded event.

It's unclear how much time Kylie has spent with Timothee's family since she started dating the Dune actor in 2023.

The couple are said to have enjoyed a romantic getaway in August 2023 to the idyllic French village where Timothee vacationed as a child, but it's unknown whether or not they flew their on Kylie's private jet.

Last year, Pauline appeared to lash out in a different social media post about individuals who own private jets.

The Sex Lives of College Girls actress made her feelings clear when she reposted a telling message by nonprofit organization Move On, originally tweeted by Democratic politician Melanie D'Arrigo.

It was reported that Pauline had made a dig at Kylie when she reposted a scathing tweet about 'billionaires' on Instagram in January

Kylie and her Hollywood beau appeared more loved-up than ever as they sat in the front row

Timothee arrived at the 2025 Oscars holding hands with his mother Nicole Flender

Pauline also made comments about CEOs who own private jets. Kylie is seen here on her very own private jet

Makeup mogul Kylie famously owns a private jet called Kylie Air, and is the CEO of Kylie Cosmetics, which she founded with mom Kris Jenner in 2014.

It is unknown if Kylie 'writes off' her private jet as a business expense, but she has continuously come under fire for her CO2 emissions.

Many fans were quick to suggest that Pauline was seemingly throwing daggers at her brother's girlfriend of over a year.
READ MORE: I'm an escort and Blue Monday is my busiest time of the year

In her 10 years of being a sex worker, Hannah Whitmore Foxx has catered to everyone - business men, out-of-towners, married people, and even couples.

She's also worked with clients who have more specific needs, whether that is help getting out of their wheelchair or writing their safe word down because they're unable to speak.

And many of them are less focused on sex and more interested in practicing their dating skills over dinner or a movie.

Some even bring their parents or partners for supervision to appointments with Ms Whitmore Foxx, a courtesan at Moonlight Bunny Ranch in Nevada, one of America's few legally licensed brothels.

She's also one of even fewer workers who 'specialize' in working with clients who have physical and developmental disabilities.

Licensed courtesan Jupiter Jetson, who works at Sheri's Ranch in Nevada, said she also works with 'people from most ends of the disability spectrum,' including clients with autism, down syndrome, war injuries, cerebral palsy, and varying degrees of paralysis.

Both women work in the only US state where prostitution is legal, but even then, the practice is forbidden in nearly half of the counties.

They told DailyMail.com while America's criminalization creates a taboo around the industry in general, providing services for people with disabilities has drawn even more criticism.

Hannah Whitmore Foxx, pictured here, has spent 10 years as a legal courtesan in Nevada. Many of her clients have physical and cognitive disabilities

Licensed courtesan Jupiter Jetson (pictured here), who works at Sheri's Ranch in Nevada, said that she has 'seen people from most ends of the disability spectrum'

Ms Jetson told DailyMail.com: 'People tend to infantilize those with disability. Whether it is physical or cognitive, you will be treated as somebody who has less agency no matter what, and that extends to sexuality 100 percent.

'The biggest misconception is people with disabilities do not desire human touch, gratification, and companionship. That is a basic human need, but removing sexuality is just one more way that society at large tends to dehumanize the disabled community.'

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Ms Jetson said: 'Sex is something that is vital for humans. Everyone deserves the access and the ability to be taken care of.

'There's so much shame surrounding disabilities that [clients] are almost like, "Will you take me?" Absolutely we will take you and work with you.'

Ms Whitmore Foxx estimates 15 to 20 percent of Bunny Ranch visitors have some form of disability.

She notes all of her clients are unique and 'no one person has ever needed the same thing. They've all needed something that was different. It's catered to them.'

She noted one roadblock many of her disabled clients is erectile dysfunction and low sex drive from their medications.

Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, muscle relaxants, and drugs for neurological conditions like Parkinson's disease have all been shown to increase erectile dysfunction by altering hormones or nervous system signals.

Ms Whitmore Foxx said: 'Depending on what medications people are put on for varying disabilities, I can show them how to change the way you're positioned or how to use different tactics to get them to orgasm for the first time.

'That's one of the main things that you can help somebody with disabilities overcome, is actually being able to figure out what works for their body specifically with the medications that they have to take.'

Ms Jetson, pictured here, told DailyMail.com that people with physical and mental disabilities are often 'infantilized,' leading people to believe they don't care about or deserve sex

For clients with cognitive disabilities or speech issues, Ms Whitmore Foxx may meet with their parents to help go over guidelines. Ms Whitmore Foxx is pictured here

For a client with cerebral palsy, Ms Whitmore Foxx may specifically avoid taking them into a hot jacuzzi tub, as the temperature can make muscle movement drugs less effective.

She may also offer an autistic client a soundproof room without fluorescent lighting, as they may otherwise get distracted and become overwhelmed.

This is also true for Ms Jetson.

She said: 'There is no one-size-fits-all to how I adapt my experiences. But for wheelchair users, it involves adapting positions and figuring out different angles that things can work from.

'For people on the [autism] spectrum who may have sensory issues, this might look like taking their requests for how they would like the lighting, the music, the levels of sound, things like that.'

With several autistic clients, Ms Whitmore Foxx will sit with them and lay out the entire date beforehand 'so they know the rules of the interaction before they come and don't have to worry about what is the right thing to do.'

One of Ms Whitmore Foxx's clients, a man with cerebral palsy, came in as a gift from his wife just a few weeks before undergoing brain surgery.

The wife helped her husband communicate his boundaries, and just before she left, she pulled Ms Whitmore Foxx in for a hug and thanked her.

'[The wife] said, "This is his once-a-year trip he gets to do that gives him this drive and desire with all of these surgeries and all of these things he goes through,"' Ms Whitmore Foxx told DailyMail.com.

In Ms Whitmore Foxx's most 'interesting' cases, disabled clients may bring their parents along so they can help communicate their child's needs and boundaries

'Their parent or their caregiver, whoever it is, can come in and talk. They can go out on the date with us, if they choose.'

Some parents also choose to email Ms Whitmore Foxx a list of guidelines.

Ms Whitmore Foxx said her 'favorite thing' about working with disabled clientele is when they can use the skills they learn with her to form healthy relationships

Ms Jetson told DailyMail.com she generally only avoids working with clients who are completely non-verbal because they can't give 'enthusiastic consent.' However, in some cases, clients may write down their guidelines

Ms Jetson said her only limitations come into play when working with clients who are completely non-verbal.

She said: 'I need to have enthusiastic consent, even if it's not the best worded enthusiastic consent. You don't have to be completely verbal, but you have to express a desire to be partaking in what it is that's on offer.'

However, she did recall an instance in which a client was able to write his consent.

For Ms Whitmore Foxx, her services aren't just limited to the bedroom. In some cases, a client with a cognitive disability like autism may prefer to go out for dinner or a movie.

She said: 'A lot of neurodivergent people have a really, really hard time dating. Just being able to go out in public and having the stimulation of being in public, along with doing an activity, can be really difficult. So we can literally practice dating.

'People don't know that you can come here and work on your social skills and learn how to be comfortable being naked with another human being because people only think about the illegal industry.'

Those skills, in and out of the bedroom, may ultimately help clients learn how to form healthy relationships and have better sex.

This is Ms Whitmore Foxx's 'favorite thing' about working with disabled clientele.

She said: 'My favorite thing is when someone can say that they started to feel attractive again, and they could enjoy sex and someone could enjoy sex with them because they had felt not normal for so long.

'And I can teach them little things here and there that they can teach their future partners. Everybody deserves a good, healthy sex life.'

Sex work is largely criminalized in the US, and prostitution - exchanging sexual conduct for money - is only legal in certain parts of Nevada.

The practice is legal in 10 out of the state's 17 counties, and just six have at least one legal brothel in operation.

State law also prohibits prostitution in cities with over 700,000 people, so 'sin cities' like Las Vegas and Reno have also forbidden prostitution.

However, sex work aimed at disabled individuals has become more widespread in other areas of the world.

In Australia, sex work has been decriminalized in New South Wales, Northern Territory, and Victoria.

New South Wales is the most liberal of Australia's territories in this regard, decriminalizing sex work in 1979.

And in NSW, Australia's government-funded National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) covers sexual experiences with sex workers for disabled adults.

In the UK, it is legal to exchange sex for money, but sex workers are prohibited from contacting clients directly, such as through loitering or soliciting, or from running a brothel.

In 2021, the nation's Court of Protection ruled that care staff can legally help disabled clients access sex work services.
The 2025 Oscars set social media alight with fans lauding Morgan Freeman for an emotional tribute to his 'dear friend' and co-star Gene Hackman who died in mysterious circumstances last month.

Although the 87-year-old kept his hands clasped behind his back for much of his TV appearance, some eagle-eyed viewers were quick to highlight his outfit choice  a singular black glove on his left hand.

'Morgan Freeman wears a glove on his left hand!!! What??? When were you going to tell me this!!,' one X user wrote.

'Why was Morgan Freeman wearing a black glove? #Oscars2025,' another said.

Freeman has been spotted with the glove for several years to help alleviate an agonising health issue.

The Se7en star previously revealed he suffers from fibromyalgia  a condition for which there is no cure  following nerve damage after a serious car crash.

In 2008, the vehicle he was driving flipped multiple times near his home in Charleston, Mississippi, with the actor having to be cut free by emergency workers before being airlifted to a hospital.

Freeman, who was 71 at the time of the accident, was reportedly 'hospitalised for four days after the collision and his injuries included a broken arm and elbow'.

Fans lauded Morgan Freeman for an emotional tribute at the Oscars to his 'dear friend' and co-star Gene Hackman who died in mysterious circumstances last month

Although the 87-year-old kept his hands clasped behind his back for much of his TV appearance, some eagle-eyed viewers were quick to highlight his outfit choice  a singular black glove on his left hand

He told Esquire magazine in 2012 that it had also left his hand paralysed, with the condition causing pain 'up and down the arm'.

'That's where it gets so bad. Excruciating.'

Fibromyalgia is thought to affect between 1.8million and 2.9million people in the UK and roughly 4 million adults in the US.

What causes the condition is unknown. But it is believed to be related to misfiring brain signals changing the way the nerves carry pain messages around the body.

It causes a range of symptoms including increased pain sensitivity, muscle stiffness, fatigue and problems concentrating, as well as low mood, according to the NHS.

There are limited treatments for fibromyalgia  and campaigners have long been fighting for further research into the condition.

Currently, the NHS recommends a combination of exercise, talking therapies and drugs that are usually used to treat anxiety and depression.

There's little or no evidence to show that other types of medication help reduce long-term pain.

The Se7en star previously revealed he suffers from fibromyalgia  a condition for which there is no cure  following nerve damage after a serious car crash. Pictured with Nicole Kidman in April 2024

Fibromyalgia is thought to affect between 1.8 million and 2.9 million people in the UK and roughly 4 million adults in the US. Pictured Freeman in January 2025

Driving near his home in Charleston, Mississippi, in 2008 the actor was cut free by emergency workers before being airlifted to a hospital in a serious condition 90 miles away in Memphis, Tennessee

In 2010, Freeman spoke about wearing a compression glove in order to keep the blood flowing.

'I suffered nerve damage and it hasn't gotten better. I can't move it,' he told People magazine.

'If you don't move your hand, it will swell up. Do you know you move your hand about a million times a day?'

Freeman was spotted wearing an elbow length glove when he presented at the 2023 Oscars alongside Margot Robbie, and also in his recent role in Paramount+'s series Special Ops: Lioness.

Such gloves are recommended by the health service, who say the gentle compression 'helps to "push" the excess fluid out of the hand'.

They added: 'For joint pain, the gloves provide support, compression and warmth to the joints.'

According to the NHS, fibromyalgia symptoms also vary over time  and can suddenly vastly improve as brain signals regulate.

But the condition can decline just as rapidly, and becoming increasingly debilitating.

Freeman was spotted wearing an elbow length glove when he presented at the 2023 Oscars alongside Margot Robbie (pictured), and also in his recent role in Paramount+'s series Special Ops: Lioness

In 2010, Freeman spoke about wearing a compression glove in order to keep the blood flowing. Here the actor is pictured in 1988

'We know that fibromyalgia is a relapsing condition and that means most people will experience some fluctuations in their symptoms,' says GP Dr Philippa Kaye.

'In fact one of the signs of the disease is that symptoms are inter-changeable  they can suddenly get better or worse.'

'While there is no cure, for lots of people, the pain will go away for a very long period of time.'

Dr Kaye adds there's lots of things patients can do to 'help manage' the disease.

These can include exercise programmes and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Why would cases of autism rocket by almost 800 per cent in 20 years? Its a question scientists are trying to answer  and already they are discovering some intriguing theories.

Once considered a rare condition, there are now around 700,000 people in the UK living with autism, according to the National Autistic Society. Indeed, there has been an astonishing 787 per cent rise in diagnoses between 1998 and 2018, according to UK research published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry in 2021.

However, these numbers are likely to be an underestimate, with the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing that one in 36 children in the US has autism.

The question is, why? And could this understanding help improve the lives of those living with the condition  including, controversially, with a drug derived from vitamin B9.

While some of the rise can be explained by better awareness of the condition, thats not the only reason.

Autism starts prenatally [i.e. in the womb] and is partly genetic, but not 100 per cent, says Sir Simon Baron-Cohen, a world expert on the condition and a professor of developmental psychopathology at the University of Cambridge.

Autism is a neurological condition that affects how people communicate, behave and interact with others.

Its thought to arise from differences in both the way the brain works and its structure.

Mason Connor, pictured at the age of one, was diagnosed with autism at two-and-a-half after he failed to start talking

For example, people with autism tend to have fewer synapses  connections that feed messages from one part of the brain to another  according to a study published in Molecular Psychiatry last year.

The extent to which someone is affected varies greatly. Some may not communicate at all, while others are gifted intellectually, highly creative and focused. Others find forming relationships difficult, while many have problems adjusting to unexpected change and prefer predictability and routine.

A proportion have learning disabilities such as dyslexia, too, and it can lead to challenges with independent living.

Some may also have mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression; as well as physical conditions such as seizures or gastrointestinal problems (constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal pain), possibly linked to inflammation caused by an overactive immune system.

One of the causes now being investigated is how a mothers levels of androgens (male hormones such as testosterone, which women have in small quantities) may affect her childs risk of autism.

If a growing baby is exposed to higher levels of androgens  as may be the case if, for example, the mother has polycystic ovary syndrome  this may masculinise the body and contribute to the likelihood of a child being autistic, says Professor Baron-Cohen.

The fact that a growing male baby will produce more androgens than a female could explain why more boys are diagnosed as autistic, he says. However, he adds that there are undoubtedly more such factors to be discovered.

Several studies have linked autism to children of mothers who had hyperemesis gravidarum  a severe form of morning sickness which affects less than 5 per cent of pregnancies.

According to US research published in the American Journal of Perinatology in 2019, children were 53 per cent more likely to be diagnosed with autism if their mothers had hyperemesis gravidarum.

The theory is that a lack of nutrients passing from mother to baby in the womb may affect the brain.

Other pregnancy-related factors include gestational diabetes, where a mother develops diabetes during pregnancy. The mechanism is not fully understood, but one theory is that its because babies were exposed to high levels of sugar in the womb at a critical point in development.

Multiple studies have linked older parents to an increased risk of autism, with one finding that the chance of a child developing autism is 50 per cent higher when the parents are in their 40s or 50s, as reported in Jama Network Open in 2020. This may be increasingly relevant as more people have children later in life.

Its thought this could be because older sperm or eggs have accumulated mutations or defects that are then passed on to children.

Dr Richard Frye, a paediatric neurologist based at Rossignol Medical Centre in Arizona

There are many other factors that may play a part during pregnancy whatever the age of the parents  including simply having a viral infection.

A 2010 study in Denmark found that severe viral infections during the first trimester of pregnancy led to a threefold increase in the risk of autism, with studies in mice suggesting that it may affect the development of the cortex (the outer section of the largest region of the brain).

Scientists are also looking into possible links to air pollution, with exposure to high levels during the third trimester of pregnancy or early childhood being linked to a significantly increased risk of autism in children, according to Environmental Research Letters in 2021.

While genetic links to autism have been known for some time, scientists are now pinpointing the actual genes involved. However, genetic disorders only account for a minority of cases, says Dr Richard Frye, a paediatric neurologist based at Rossignol Medical Centre in Arizona.

He is among those who have been looking into the possibility that autism may be linked to low levels of folate (vitamin B9).

He is leading the trial involving Mason Connor, a non-verbal autistic child in Arizona, who made headlines around the world recently when he uttered his first words days after taking leucovorin, a drug which is similar to folate.

Mason, five, started taking leucovorin aged three. The drug is licensed in the US to help reduce the toxicity of a form of chemotherapy, but is available off-label for autism and costs around 2 a tablet.

Masons mother Caroline told CBS News that she thought the drug had helped her son start speaking. He is now due to attend a mainstream nursery school in September.

The drug has yet to be approved for autism in the US or here  and experts believe its benefits remain in question.

Dr Frye says leucovorin overcomes a problem that, according to his own unpublished research in 2012, affects up to seven in ten autistic children: folate receptor autoantibodies.

These antibodies damage the machinery that transports folate into the brain (where folate helps with many essential processes).

Leucovorin can pass into the brain because it uses an alternate route, says Dr Frye.

The low folate level weve found in children is isolated to the brain, he says.

We believe the folate improves the function of neurons [nerve cells] so they can communicate with each other better, he explains, adding that leucovorin is not a cure for autism, but could really have a substantial impact on a very good percentage of children with autism.

Dr Frye says: The drug could make a substantial difference. There are now four blinded, placebo-controlled trials showing that leucovorin can improve speech and autism symptoms, so its definitely not a one-off.

He hopes to get funding for the necessary studies to get it approved in the US.

Leucovorin  which is not available for autism in the UK, even off-label  joins a long list of potential therapies for autism, with varying amounts of evidence to support their use.

For example, magnetic e-resonance therapy (MeRT)  brain stimulation approved in the US for depression and obsessive compulsive disorder  has been widely publicised as a treatment for autism.

The theory is that it generates magnetic waves that stimulate targeted areas of the brain, to reshape brain waves said to have been disrupted.

Multiple researchers are examining whether it may help, but so far there are no studies to support its use.

Despite that, there are many people in the US prepared to pay thousands for a six-week course.

Professor Baron-Cohen urges caution when it comes to newer treatments.

Mason Connor started taking leucovorin aged three, and began speaking a few days later

Parents should be wary of treatments for autism that have not been in a randomised controlled trial. They should check if there are unwanted side-effects and that the investigators have no conflicts of interest, he says.

Whats more, he adds: There is a place for treating symptoms that cause distress in autistic people  such as anxiety, gastrointestinal pain and epilepsy  but not autism per se, since autism is part of the persons identity. A person should be accepted and respected for being autistic, rather than feeling pressured to be normalised or to hide their autism.

And there are therapies that have been shown to help improve quality of life. Speech therapy, occupational therapy and educational support in schools can be beneficial.

Meanwhile, faster and more accurate ways to diagnose autism are being developed.

Currently, diagnosis is based on professionals observing and identifying abnormal behaviour, which can be time-consuming and difficult, says Dr Frye.

Researchers at Nottingham Trent University, working with a team at the Kennedy Krieger Institute in the US, have developed a one-minute video game which, according to a recent study, can correctly identify children with autism with an 80 to 90 per cent success rate.

The tool, called the Computerised Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI), uses motion-tracking technology to detect differences in imitation skills.

Autistic people find it harder to imitate others  imitating others actions is central to the development of social skills.

For the study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry in January, 183 children were asked to copy the dance-like movements of a video avatar for one minute, while their imitation performance was measured using CAMI.

Autism is traditionally seen as a social-communication disorder, but we now know sensory-motor difficulties, like motor imitation, play a key role in shaping social and communication skills, said Dr Bahar Tuncgenc, a social development expert at Nottingham Trent University and one of the co-authors of the study.

The video game also differentiated autism from ADHD, which causes a lack of focus and impulsive behaviour, with 70 per cent accuracy. This is a particular challenge because ADHD and autism often co-occur, and it can be hard to identify the diagnoses.

Meanwhile, its hoped that biomarkers can be identified so that in future children who are at risk could be diagnosed at birth, or even before.

Biomarkers that identify children at risk before there are any symptoms, or even before a child is born, could help make diagnoses much more accurate and faster, and would be a great advance, says Dr Frye.

Professor Baron-Cohen is part of a team supporting and fundraising for a new hospital, Cambridge Childrens Hospital. The collaborative venture between three partners is due to open in 2029 and could help to ensure that autism diagnoses are made earlier.

Cambridge Childrens Hospital will hopefully accelerate early diagnosis and early intervention  and evidence shows that children who receive their autism diagnosis earlier have better mental health in adolescence and adulthood, he says.
Blockbuster weight loss jabs relied on by millions of slimmers could raise the risk of panic and anxiety attacks, concerning reports suggest.

The drugs, including Wegovy, Ozempic and Mounjaro, have been hailed a monumental breakthrough in the war on obesity and type 2 diabetes  but some users have suffered severe anxiety and 'meltdowns' which they believe are linked to the injections.

At least half a million NHS patients and some 15million in the US are now thought to be using the jabs, which can help patients lose up to 20 per cent of their bodyweight in just a few months.

They have also been shown to significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

However, side effects are wide-ranging, from nausea and abdominal pain to severe digestive issues and even bone pain.

And scores of patients have taken to Facebook forums to seek help and advice saying the jabs trigger panic attacks and severe anxiety.

One, on Mounjaro  a brand name for tirzepatide which the NHS is set to offer to thousands over the next three years, wrote on Saturday: I [had to] stop because the anxiety it causes is unlivable.

'Anxiety to the core and my endocrinologist confirmed it is treatment related.

Semaglutide and tirzepatide  the powerful ingredients behind Wegovy, Ozempic and Mounjaro  have long been hailed a monumental breakthrough in the war on obesity and type 2 diabetes

In January, actress and presenter Danielle Mason, told how Mounjaro made her so anxious she nearly called an ambulance because she thought she was going to die

Another wrote yesterday: Has anyone gotten anxiety after a week on the Wegovy?

'The first week was great, a little nausea but nothing bad, but week two was miserable  tons of nausea and full on anxiety attacks.

'I have lost 11 lbs so far but now I still experience small anxiety when I get up in the morning.'

Speak to The Sun, a third forum poster said her mental health nosedived after being prescribed Mounjaro.

The 32-year-old, who had her anxiety under control, ended up seeking medical help after experiencing suicidal thoughts.

She said: I had feelings Ive never had in my life and multiple meltdowns. More and more people are taking this drug, and I seriously believe its dangerous.

In January, actress and presenter Danielle Mason, also detailed how taking Mounjaro had made her so anxious she nearly called an ambulance believing she was going to die.

The 41-year-old sister of EastEnders actress Jessie Wallace, said she began taking the drug over Christmas in a bid to drop a few pounds after being prescribed it by an online doctor.

In a TikTok video seen 190,000 times, she said: 'On the days I would actually do the jab I would end up with the worst anxiety to the point I wanted to call an ambulance out because I felt like I was going to die'

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In a TikTok video seen 190,000 times, she said: 'On the days I would actually do the jab I would end up with the worst anxiety to the point I wanted to call an ambulance out because I felt like I was going to die.

'From me taking it as a guinea pig because I wanted to have a go  it was absolutely horrendous. I've only just come back to myself now.

In 2023, the UK's medicines watchdog launched an urgent safety review into Wegovy, Ozempic and similar drugs probing the possible link between the jabs and suicidal thoughts and self-harm.

The review was triggered by reports of more than a dozen patients experiencing such issues after taking the injections.

Suicidal thoughts are already listed as a potential side effect of the jabs in patient information leaflets tucked inside the packaging, but some campaigners have called for clearer warnings.

However, last September, the MHRA dismissed the risk.

A spokesperson for Mounjaro manufacturer Lilly UK today said: 'We encourage patients to consult their doctor or other healthcare professional regarding any side effects.'

Like any medication, the jabs are known to cause side effects that can vary in both frequency and severity.

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Other reported problems include constipation, fatigue, stomach pain, headaches and dizziness.

Bizarre symptoms, such as hair loss, have also been reported among some patients.

Doctors have also long told how they are treating increasing numbers of slim women who end up in hospital after falsely telling online chemists they are overweight to pass eligibility checks.

Under official guidelines, only patients who have a body mass index (BMI) of over 35 and at least one weight-related health problem like high blood pressure, or those who have a BMI of 30 to 34.9 and meet the criteria for referral to a specialist weight management service, should be prescribed Wegovy.

In the UK, law forbids the sale of such drugs without a prescription from a medical professional.
Following the death of the late actress Barbie Hsu disputes over child custody and asset division have surfaced. Hsu's mother, Huang Chunmei, did not stop venting at her former son-in-law Wang Xiaofei.

Speaking in an interview with Taiwanese news outlets, Huang said she was heartbroken over the loss of her daughter, saying, "It doesn't matter as long as the kids are taken care of. I am aged, and my strength has quite gone. It hurts me too because my daughter's passing has caused me heartbreak."She continued, "So, do not ask groundless questions or increase my grief."

As for Wang and the continuing squabble over custody and property, Huang said: "Whatever he wants, it's up to him to take. I only want my daughter. Please don't let me wake up crying every day."

On the same day, Wang posted a note on her social media account that cryptically seemed to be addressing Wang, saying, "He is a liar, and I am a fool."

Barbie Hsu died suddenly on February 3. Hsu was said to have become ill while on vacation in Japan with her husband, Koo Jun-yeop, battling influenza, which then progressed into acute pneumonia complications.

"My angel returned to heaven," Koo said in a statement. "As for those who mourned Hee-won's passing, thank you so very much." He promised that he will always "do everything possible" to keep Barbie's treasured memory alive for their family.

He said Huang would receive all of Hsu's property. However, there have been problems with Hsu's estate, which is reportedly worth 600 million yuan ($82 million).

As per KbiZoom, because they have two children, Wang Xiaofei is the legal guardian of the two, so it is reported that Wang Xiaofei has the right to handle most of Hsu's inheritance.

Koo promised to take legal action to reduce the risk of the press encroaching on the rights of the children and to secure their future until the age of 18.

According to the Taiwanese news outlet Sanli News Network, Koo will have all of Barbie's properties transferred to her and her family, but Wang will remain the legal representative and those who will handle the children's properties until their 18th birthday.
Health officials have warned about a potential measles outbreak at New York's JFK International Airport.

A child who entered the country on a China Airlines flight has tested positive for the highly contagious disease.

After arriving at Terminal 4, the patient traveled on a shuttle bus to Philadelphia where they visited two clinics and were eventually diagnosed.

Anyone who was on the shuttle bus on February 25 between 9.30pm and 3.15am is being urged to get tested for the disease.

People who were also at a clinic in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, on February 26 from 11.45am to 2.15pm, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia King of Prussia campus, from 12.52am to 3.02pm, are also being advised to get tested.

Officials are now working to trace patients who may have crossed paths with the child, who is a US national but had not been vaccinated.

It comes after a passenger at LAX who arrived on a Korean Air flight from Seoul also tested positive for measles on February 19.

In the background, a major measles outbreak in Texas has sickened at least 173 people and reportedly led to two deaths, marking the first US deaths from the disease in a decade.

The child traveled on a shuttle bus from JFK international airport's terminal 4

Longtime vaccine skeptic and new health chief Robert F Kennedy Jr has urged people to get vaccinated.

Experts warn that falling vaccination rates have left the US more vulnerable to outbreaks of the disease.

Measles is transmitted via direct contact with infectious droplets released into the air by patients when they cough, sneeze or breathe.

It is one of the most infectious diseases in the world, with a patient capable of spreading it to up to 90 percent of people nearby.

About 40 percent of patients are hospitalized in the US, while about three in 1,000 die from the disease after suffering from deadly brain swelling.

Infectious droplets can hang in the air for around two hours, with symptoms emerging within seven to 14 days of infection.

Patients develop a fever, cough, and runny nose, which then develops into a rash that starts at the hairline before spreading to the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet.

There's no cure for measles, with doctors instead using antibiotics to treat related infections and IV fluids. The vaccine is 97 percent effective at preventing an infection and is required for children attending school in some states.

The JFK scare was revealed by officials at Montgomery County health department in Pennsylvania who were notified of the infection.

In a public alert release, they said: 'Identified individuals are in the process of being contacted and notified of potential exposure to measles and assessed for vaccination status and risk for infection.

Cold-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough and a runny or blocked nose, are usually the first signal of measles

'People who were at any of the locations [the child visited] may have been exposed.

'Additional details regarding possible exposure during and after air travel will be provided as soon as they become available.'

The clinic in Pennsylvania the child visited was True North Pediatrics Associates of Plymouth.

The child was also dropped off by the bus at the Pho Ha Saigon restaurant on the outskirts of Philadelphia.

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It marks the first measles case recorded in Pennsylvania this year, with four cases recorded in 2024.

Latest statistics show that about 94.6 percent of children entering kindergarten in the state had received the measles vaccine last year, just below the minimum threshold of 95 percent that scientists say is needed to prevent an outbreak.

Nationwide, about 92.7 percent of children entering kindergarten have received the measles vaccine.
An FBI scientist who led the investigation into the Covid lab leak theory has revealed why he is confident China was behind the pandemic.

The FBI, CIA and Energy Department all say it is most likely that the virus emerged at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, but only the former says it has 'moderate confidence' this was the case.

Dr Jason Bannan, a registered Democrat, spoke out to Vanity Fair to counter the claim that the lab leak theory is a right wing conspiracy.

Dr Bannan said his team found Shi Zhengli, a lead coronavirus researcher at the WIV dubbed the 'bat lady', and her team were performing risky experiments on SARS-CoV-2's closest known relatives for at least three years before the pandemic.

They also found the WIV had 'thousands' of samples of coronaviruses, many of which were not disclosed, and that much of the research was carried out in labs that had improper safety precautions for coronaviruses, raising the risk of an escape.

Speaking in a personal capacity, Dr Bannan  who served at the agency for more than two decades before retiring in 2022  revealed to the publication: 'To me, there is enough scientific evidence to say it is likely this was a lab incident.'

He added: 'The science speaks volumes.'

The above shows Dr Bannan (pictured left) with scientists Scott Decker and Matthew Feinberg. They are pictured in 2008 at a lab in Quantico, Virginia. The three helped solve the anthrax investigation

More than 7million people are estimated to have died from Covid globally so far.

Dr Bannan spent more than 20 years as an FBI scientist, winning the FBI Director's Award in 2009 for outstanding scientific advancement for his work on the anthrax investigation.

He spent 11 of those years serving as the senior scientist on the FBI's forensic response section within the lab division, where he also investigated Covid's origins.

He retired in 2022, and has now spoken up as a private citizen to counter what he called inaccurate claims that Covid emerged naturally.

Dr Bannan said it was also his aim to combat bias toward a natural spillover event as the likely origin of the pandemic, which he said continued to be espoused in Government reports.

He added: 'How and where the SARS-CoV-2 virus became well adapted to humans is the question that compels scientists to examine the laboratory origin.'

Some of the information in the FBI report remains classified, but Dr Bannan has now shared the published studies that led to the FBI's judgement that Covid likely came from a lab.

He revealed the Bureau had analyzed a 2017 dissertation by graduate student Lei-Ping Zeng, who worked at the WIV under Zhengli, in which he described developing a system to swap out components of different SARS-related coronaviruses to create chimeras that was hard to detect.

He stated how much of the work was done in low-containment BSL-2 laboratories, with no specialized air filtration or full gowns. In the US, this work would need to be done in a BSL-3 lab, with controlled airflow and protective clothing.

A separate thesis from June 2019, and by Zhengli's student Yu Ping, details work on 2,800 coronaviruses stored in the lab  with almost a third of these testing positive for coronaviruses.

Shi Zhengli - dubbed the 'Bat Lady' or 'Bat Woman' for her work on bat coronaviruses - investigated the possibility Covid could have emerged from her lab back in 2020

Pictured: The Wuhan Institute of Virology,the lab believed to be the origin of Covid

Dr Bannan said the revelations highlight a 'lack of candor' among scientists at the WIV about their research, suggesting they had been secretly tweaking viruses in unsafe conditions 'for years'.

Classified information also shows that three scientists working at the WIV, Yu Ping, Ben Hu and another researcher, fell ill with Covid-like symptoms in fall 2019.

Hu and Ping have denied that they fell ill during this time frame, but US government sources briefed on the information say this is the case.

Dr Bannan also said that studies published online reveal how there were thousands of viruses in the labs' vaults that were yet to be detailed publicly.

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He noted a paper from February 2019 by Zhengli, on strains of coronaviruses, which contained a circular diagram on the evolution of three groups of bat viruses.

It was comparable to the thesis from June 2019, which used the same circular diagram but showed this displaying a fourth group of nine viruses.

The thesis added that it was based on 'bat samples collected from 20 regions of China from 2011 to 2016 that were available in the laboratory'.

It was not clear why the fourth group of viruses were omitted initially, but proponents of the theory Covid came from the wild say this may happen if results are incomplete, research is ongoing, or there is a lack of interest from scientific journals.

The above shows points suggesting that Covid escaped from a lab

The WIV had so many samples of coronaviruses because scientists from there had repeatedly visited a cave in Yunnan, China, to collect contaminated bat guano.

The cave first came of interest to the Institute in 2012, when six miners there caught a mystery illness  and three died.

One of the samples from that cave was called Ra4991, onto which much suspicion has settled that this might be the initial strain of Covid.

A February 2020 paper by Zhengli which analyzed the viral strains that had likely contributed to the first SARS outbreak in 2002 suggested that RaTG13 was 96.2 percent similar to SARS-CoV-2.

But this paper ommitted that RaTG13 was actually Ra4991, which had simply been renamed. An update was later published clarifying the error, but Dr Bannan said that this alarmed officials at the FBI.

Dr Bannan says the virus is not similar enough to be the coronavirus, but that it builds a picture that the virus could have escaped from the lab.

An FBI spokesperson said in a statement: 'The FBI has long assessed that the origin of the Covid pandemic was likely a laboratory incident in Wuhan.

'Led by the FBIs Weapons of Mass Destruction Directorate, work began in early 2020 when FBI experts in such fields as virology, immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, and forensics began examining this issue. FBI agents and analysts studied intelligence and conducted over 200 interviews of more than 80 people since the beginning of the pandemic.'

In comparison, no such evidence has been found to support the natural origins of Covid hypothesis despite extensive studies on sites such as the Wuhan live animal market.

It comes amid a renewed push to investigate the origins of the Covid pandemic, with senator Rand Paul subpoenaed 14 government agencies for records related to the US government's funding of research at the WIV.

And Tulsi Gabbard, now head of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, has pledged to further review and could declassify more information.
Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos defended his decision to revamp the paper's opinion page in the form of a pointed online reply to a transgender podcaster.

Last week, Bezos announced the Post's opinion section would only focus on 'free markets and personal liberties' - leading to cries of bias and seeking to appease the Trump administration.

Michigan-based activist and attorney Hendrix Moise took it a step further, branding the billionaire 'a facist' for his decision.

'So youre going fascist too Jeff? Bend the knee,' Moise wrote in reply to a February 26 post on X penned by the billionaire outlining his plans for the paper's opinion section.

On Sunday - the same day Bezos attended an Oscars afterparty with fiancee Lauren Sanchez - he fired back at the comment.

'There is nothing fascist about personal liberties and free markets,' he replied.

'On its face,' Moises shot back. 'But whose version of personal liberties? Your version? You're telling the opinion page what it can and cannot cover. I'm a WaPo reader, I think you're bending the knee to Trump. Unfortunate.'

Bezos' response was one of a handful he wrote on X to both critics and supporters of his decision.

Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos - seen here at Vanity Fair Oscar Party Sunday night - is defending his decision to revamp the paper's opinion page

Bezos gave as a pointed online reply to accusations of fascism from transgender podcaster Hendrix Moise, seen here

The Washington Post's opinion section has been subject to an exodus of talent following Bezos decision to not endorse a presidential candidate shortly before the election.

The page will now focus solely on support for 'personal liberties and free markets,' Bezos said last week, sparking backlash from like users like Moise, who hosts a podcast called The Uprising Is Here.

Moise, who has more than 22,000 followers on X, frequently criticizes President Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

He describes himself as a licensed criminal defense attorney who works on LGBT-rights cases.

He transitioned to male more than a decade ago, social media posts show.

The first episode of his podcast, released in 2023, covered 'Ancient Transgender History.'

When another user panned the podcaster for what they viewed as 'leftist logic,' Moise claimed that he was 'not a leftist.'

Tech billionaires like Bezos have been accused of cozying up to Trump since his election, fueling outrage from critics.

Pictured, the back-and-forth seen on social media between the two

Moise, who has more than 22,000 followers on X, frequently criticizes President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. He describes himself as a licensed criminal defense attorney who works on LGBT-rights cases.

Bezos was in attendance at the US Capitol when Trump was sworn-in, as was Meta's Mark Zuckerberg and Google CEO Sundar Pichai.

Afterwards, outgoing President Joe Biden warned Americans of an 'oligarchy' rapidly forming within the US.

Days before Trump's win, Bezos partied overseas with Sanchez and pop star Katy Perry.

Both are now set to be launched into space alongside CBS Mornings' Gayle King on a Bezos Blue Origin flight set for spring.

Perry had been celebrating her 40th birthday in Venice alongside Bezos, Sanchez, and her fiance Orlando Bloom - as Post staffers aired frustrations with the paper's leadership.

Apart from the staffers - 400 of whom sent a scathing letter to the billionaire demanding a sitdown in January - 250,000 readers cancelled their subscriptions in protest.

In his explanation for the decision, Bezos cited growing 'distrust' of media.

'What presidential endorsements actually do is create a perception of bias,' the 60-year-old, who is worth some $206.2 billion, said at the time.

On Sunday - the same day Bezos attended an Oscars afterparty with fiancee Lauren Sanchez - Bezos fired back at critics' comments

The exchanges come as several prominent Post opinion writers have already left the paper, due to Bezos's decision to not offer a Post endorsement for either presidential candidate

The billionaire - seen with Sanchez at Trump's Mar-a-Lago mansion in December to break bread with the president following his win - has since been accused of cozying up to the current president

'A perception of non-independence. Ending them is a principled decision, and it's the right one.'

Three days before, Post CEO Will Lewis released a memo announcing the lack of an endorsement for the first time since 1988, a move that led to a parade of opinion page exits.

Now-former Post Opinion Editor Robert Kagan was among them, accusing company brass of engaging in a quid-pro-quo with the Trump campaign after execs from Blue Origin were spotted meeting with Trump in October.

Another columnist, Michelle Norris, also walked out, writing on X that the decision was a 'terrible mistake' that same month.

Three prominent opinions section writers, David Hoffman, Molly Roberts and Robert Kagan, followed suit in September, with each naming the reason as frustration with the endorsement decision.

Opinion editor Amanda Katz and her deputy Charles Lane have also since gone, joined by columnist Jennifer Rubin. All left in January after lengthy, decorated tenures.

The paper's White House Correspondent, Tyler Pager, had left in December, citing frustration with the paper's trajectory. He announced he would be rejoining his old employer, The New York Times.

Meanwhile, since Bezos's latest strategic shift, the Post has lost 75,000 digital subscribers.

Pictured, Mark Zuckerberg, Sanchez, Bezos, Google CEO Sundar Pichai, and Elon Musk at Trump's inauguration

A still from Katy Perry's birthday party at The Ritz Carlton in Switzerland in October, which was attended by Sanchez and Bezos days before Trump went on to win the election - and while Post staffers were protesting the direction he was taking the paper

More than 300,000 cancelled subscriptions later, the Amazon founder has confirmed he is ditching a traditional, 'broad-based opinion section that sought to cover all views'

This comes after a round of layoffs that went into effect after most of the opinion staffers' exits.

The section, historically, has been read by figures ranging from JPMorgan's Jamie Dimon to conservative author George F. Will.

As the new approach to the page was announced, Bezos revealed the Post's longtime editorial page editor, David Shipley, was also leaving as a result.
Activist investor Elliott has pressured BP to scrap its solar and wind power businesses.

The New York hedge fund does not believe BP boss Murray Auchincloss's new strategy  described as a 'fundamental reset'  goes far enough to revamp the oil major's fortunes.

Auchincloss last week unveiled plans to spend less on renewables, invest in gas and sell a stake in BP's Lightsource solar arm.

But Elliott, which has built a nearly 4billion stake in BP to become the oil major's third largest shareholder, wants to see the company completely exit the solar power and wind farm sector, according to The Sunday Times.

Winds of change: Elliott wants to see BP completely exit the solar power and wind farm sector

It follows reports that Elliott felt the plan lacked urgency and wanted BP to make drastic cost cuts to strengthen its future as a standalone company.

The activist investor's dissatisfaction raises questions over the future of Auchincloss and BP chairman Helge Lund.

Auchincloss last week admitted BP had got its net zero strategy wrong and gone 'too far too fast' in recent years.
Former Barclays boss Jes Staley will this week take the financial watchdog to court after he was banned from the City over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

The legal battle will see City figures including Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey give evidence at the hearing in London.

It comes after the Financial Conduct Authority banned the American businessman from holding senior financial industry positions in 2023.

The watchdog said he had acted with a 'lack of integrity' by allegedly misleading the regulator over his relationship with Epstein.

Tight-lipped: The Financial Conduct Authority said Jes Staley had acted with a 'lack of integrity'

The saga saw Barclays claw back nearly 18m of Staley's bonuses.

Email extracts showed Staley had described Epstein as one of his 'most cherished' friends.
Has YOUR home been ruined by something similar?

A homeowner has told how an 'eyesore' telegraph pole installed directly outside his house is blocking his plans for a driveway.

Darren Timmins, of Oldham, Greater Manchester, said the metal IX Wireless pole appeared on the pavement outside his property in May last year - around the same time he was planning to install gates and a driveway to park his work van.

Despite every every attempt to have the mast moved, Mr Timmins said his calls for help have fallen on deaf ears as the pole remains firmly in place months later.

The 55-year-old is the latest in a string of homeowners across the UK to tell MailOnline about their telegraph pole nightmares, with many complaining of ruined views and damaged properties.

Mr Timmins recently suffered a breakdown and claimed the inability to finish his plans for the home have only worsened his mental health.

Speaking to MailOnline, he said: 'It's a massive stress every time I walk out of the door.

'I just can't believe they're stopping me doing what I was going to do to my own house.

'I had a massive breakdown as well so it's not helping my mental health at all.'

Has YOUR home been ruined by something similar?

Email katherine.lawton@mailonline.co.uk

The metal telegraph pole outside Darren Timmins's house, which he said is blocking his plans for a driveway

Darren Timmins, 55, (pictured) claimed the inability to finish his plans for the property have worsened his mental health

He added: 'I was going to install gates to protect my vehicle and have a drive [at] the side of my house.'

Mr Timmins, who worked for the council for 27 years, said when the pole went up he wrote to the objections team but heard nothing back.

After allegedly writing to them several times, the homeowner tried to call the company but was not met with a solution, before eventually being told nothing could be done and the pole would not be moved.

'This pole has caused me so much stress from when it first went up as it is blocking the potential for me to install a drive way I planned for my van,' he said.

'It's like nobody's cares.'

Mr Timmins branded the pole an 'eyesore' and said it is affecting the appearance of his house.

'It's an ugly eyesore isn't it. They're just absolute ugly eyesores,' he said.

'If it has to be it has to be but what I'm not concerned about is that they're just not listening.'

An IX Wireless spokesperson said: 'Our team has always been keen to work with local residents and welcome any input which can help to improve our service.

'In this case, we have responded to the said resident multiple times.

The pole on the other side of Mr Timmins's wall, which he said was installed last year

The homeowner said he was written to the pole objections team but has been unsuccessful

'The resident is unable to provide any plans for a driveway that predate the installation of the pole.

'Like other companies we must adhere to strict guidelines when installing any street structures. This pole was sited fully within the guidelines.

'However, we have advised the resident that if at any point in the future the resident has plans drawn up for a driveway, we would be happy to review the siting of the pole and consider relocating it at a reasonable cost.'

It comes after another homeowner claimed he returned home from holiday to find roadworks and a 'massive' 24ft pole installed directly outside his 17th century cottage.

Ian Biggs, of St Nicholas-at-Wade, Kent, said he was distraught to discover his picturesque village house - built in 1608 and in a conservation area - blighted by the modern mast.

The pensioner claimed he had already been promised the pole would not be erected outside his property - after finding a sign from Openreach on the bus stop warning locals of the installation and calling the number printed on it.

But upon his return from South Africa on March 1 last year, Mr Biggs was gobsmacked to find his road dug up and ruined, and a mast 'four times the size' of him towering over his home.

Openreach declined to comment when contacted by MailOnline.
EXCLUSIVE

Graphic images have emerged of the head wound a property developer suffered after his ex-girlfriend allegedly threw a lamp at him in an upmarket Japanese restaurant.

Dean Contos was dining with his current partner at Tanuki in Sydney's Double Bay on February 22 when part-time model and aspiring influencer Natalie Marangos walked in.

Police allege Marangos was captured on CCTV about 11.40pm picking up a table lamp and throwing it at Contos's face, causing a cut to his forehead.

Pictures taken shortly after the alleged attack and obtained by Daily Mail Australia show the injury, as well as blood on Contos's T-shirt and right hand.

Marangos left the restaurant before police arrived and was arrested the following night at a Hurstville Grove address in Sydney's southern suburbs.

She was charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and appeared in Downing Centre Local Court for the first time last Wednesday.

Contos, who served almost four years in jail for kidnapping two cleaners in 2019, appeared in the same court the next day accused of choking and stalking Marangos last year.

He was set to face a District Court trial in coming months but the Director of Public Prosecutions last week elected to have the charges heard by a magistrate.

Graphic images have emerged of the head wound property developer Dean Contos suffered after his ex-girlfriend Natalie Marangos allegedly threw a lamp at him in an up-market Japanese restaurant

Dean Contos was dining with his current partner at Tanuki in Sydney's Double Bay on February 22 when part-time model and aspiring influencer Natalie Marangos (above ) walked in on the couple

Contos was arrested in September after he allegedly choked Marangos at Riverview on Sydney's lower north shore and spent almost three months behind bars.

Marangos, 34, and Contos, 37, are both the subjects of interim apprehended violence orders protecting them from each other.

Contos was arrested on May 7 last year and charged with stalking Marangos at Riverview between 10am and 7.23pm that day, and breaching a restraining order.

Four months later, on September 2, he was arrested and refused bail after allegedly choking Marangos between 6pm on August 30 and 9am on August 31.

Contos was also charged with a second count of contravening an AVO.

He was hit with a fifth charge last Thursday when police accused him of installing a tracking device 'to determine [her] geographical location without her consent'.

The tracking device was allegedly installed on the night Contos is accused of having stalked her.

Contos did not appear in person when his case was listed last Thursday but Marangos was in court when her matter was mentioned the previous morning.

Police allege Marangos was captured on CCTV about 11.40pm picking up a table lamp and throwing it at Contos's face, causing a cut to his forehead. He is pictured after the alleged incident

Contos, who served almost four years in jail for kidnapping two cleaners in 2019, was charged with choking and stalking Marangos last year. He is pictured above

Her solicitor, Kiki Kyriacou, said Marangos would be assessed by a psychiatrist or psychologist and he would investigate having the assault charge dealt with under mental health provisions of the law.

Mr Kyriacou would also seek to view CCTV footage of the alleged restaurant incident and speak to the Director of Public Prosecutions about the older charges against Contos.

Contos pleaded not guilty to the stalk or intimidate charge and one of the alleged AVO breaches in September but has not entered pleas to the other charges.

He is on bail which requires him to wear a electronic monitoring devices and includes conditions he not enter Hurstville or go within 3km of that area.

Contos is not to contact Marangos, not to drink alcohol or take drugs which have not been prescribed by a doctor and has to report every day to police.

In March 2021, Contos was jailed for five years and 10 months, with a minimum term of three years and 10 months, after he pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated kidnapping.

The District Court heard Contos had ambushed two men when they showed up clean his three-bedroom harbourside apartment at Milsons Point about 4.20pm on February 20, 2019.

Contos had been convinced one of the cleaners had been stealing his property and enlisted two mates to kidnap both men.

Marangos (above) is charged with assault occasioning bodily harm as well as having been served with an interim AVO to stay away from Contos

Marangos, 34, and Contos, 37, are both the subjects of interim apprehended violence orders protecting them from each other

The cleaner Contos accused of stealing was repeatedly threatened and assaulted during an ordeal which lasted almost five hours and left him seriously injured with multiple broken ribs.

At one point, one of Contos's companions took that cleaner's mobile phone and said: 'You have beautiful kids and wife - if you want to see them again you have to pay $10,000.'

When the cleaner said he had cash at home he was rolled up in a tarpaulin and driven with his co-worker to the first cleaner's home at Lidcombe in Sydney's west.

Once at the house, the cleaner screamed to his wife in Korean, 'Don't open the door, call the police' then said in English, 'Can you open the door and get the $10,000?'

Denied access to the house, Contos and one of his friends took the cleaner back to Contos's Toyota Hilux and resumed assaulting him.

The kidnappers drove away with the cleaners and dropped them off in North Sydney about 9.05pm.

Contos presented himself to Manly police station two days later and said he was 'wanted'.

The District Court heard Contos had a stable upbringing as the oldest of four siblings and had worked in real estate most of his adult life.

Contos was arrested in September after he allegedly choked Marangos (above) at Riverview on Sydney's lower north shore and spent almost three months behind bars

The kidnapping offences were described as 'out of character' and he had no prior convictions for violence.

Having been jailed for at least three years and ten months, Contos went to the Court of Criminal Appeal to challenge the severity of his sentence.

That court dismissed Contos's appeal and ordered the original prison term to stand.

'The applicant's offending was serious,' Justice Paul Brereton said.

'The applicant planned, instigated, and carried out the kidnapping, and enlisted the two co-offenders to assist.'

Contos's choking and stalking charges will be mentioned again on March 19. Marangos is due back in court on March 13.
Violent clashes which saw police 'ambushed' and brutally attacked by Romanian thugs are believed to have erupted when social services 'tried to take two children from a home'.

Chaotic footage shows officers being punched, kicked, and beaten with pieces of wood as mayhem erupted in Gateshead, near Newcastle.

The ugly scenes on Tuesday evening were reportedly triggered when social workers, escorted by police, arrived at a maisonette to execute a child protection order.

A Romanian woman at the property today told MailOnline that authorities had wanted to remove two children, aged three and five.

She said: 'Child protection came in to take the children without any reason.

'Four people came to take the children by force.'

Eyewitnesses told of 'carnage' when up to 15 men 'charged down the stairs' of the property and 'ambushed' two officers.

As the brawl spilled onto the street, an angry crowd quickly formed, with more men emerging from nearby homes to join the violence.

CCTV footage shows the mass fight in Gateshead, near Newcastle, break out after officers were called to a welfare incident

Northumbria Police said two officers required hospital treatment and six people were arrested

The six people, aged between 15 and 54, have since been released on bail

One officer is believed to have had lighter fuel thrown in his face while another was attacked with a panel of wooden fence.

Two Northumbria Police officers were taken to hospital for treatment and six people were arrested.

A source on the street suggested that the children sought by social services were being looked after by another Romanian family after their father was stopped from seeing them.

They said: 'The children's mother had moved away so another family took responsibility for them. Then a day later social services turned up and took the children away. There was no warning, nothing.'

One witness, who asked not to be named, said: 'There were two well-dressed people at the front door and two bobbies stood respectfully about 10 yards away, just overseeing what was going on.

'Voices got raised and then all of a sudden the door opened and there were about 15 people waiting up the stairs.

'They all came charging out and they just attacked the police.

'I thought I was going to have to go and drag one of the police and get them in my house.

'I rang 999 and I just said you need more bodies on the ground. There's an officer down on the ground, getting kicked.

'To me, it felt like an ambush.

Reinforcements quickly arrived with at least 15 officers on the scene

Northumbria Police said two officers required hospital treatment

'People were screaming and charging at the police. I've never seen anything like it - it was absolute madness.'

Another witness told how up to 20 other young men emerged on the street as news of the incident quickly spread.

They said: 'It was a pitched battle in the streets, for about ten minutes.

'An older man tried to attack a police officer with a piece of wood, but he missed and ran headfirst into a car

'Three young lads were ordered to the ground, but one jumped up and tried to headbutt an officer.'

'There was an older man who went for a copper with a piece of wood.

'Fortunately he managed to dodge it and the old man ran head first into a car.

'Three of these young lads were told to get on the ground. One of them got up and tried to headbutt a police officer.'

Officers lead one man away from the scene after making an arrest

CCTV footage shows the massive brawl broke out between yobs and police in Northumbria

Footage shows a large group of people fighting with officers as they attempt to detain civilians

Two men can be seen grappling with a police officer during the mass brawl

Women from the house also rushed into the street, screaming at police, with one seen on her knees, crying.

The witness said: 'They didn't lay a hand on the cops but they were in their faces

'The whole thing was shocking. It's just a bloody good job no-one had any weapons.'

New footage published online shows the extent of the police response, with the street swarming with officers. In one clip a bloodied older man is seen led away in handcuffs.

Six people, aged between 15 and 54, were arrested in connection with the incident for affray, resisting arrest and assaulting an emergency worker. They have all now been released on bail.

The road was cordoned off overnight with police remaining at the house until the early hours of Wednesday morning, a neighbour said.

'It was awful for the police. People think it's really rough around here but actually it's alright.

'It's always been multicultural and everybody gets on. It's a good little community.'

Officers speak to members of the public after being called to the area after reports of a welfare incident

Police make an arrest following the mass brawl breaking out

Northumbria Police said: 'At around 5pm on Tuesday, we received a report of a concern for welfare in the Bensham area of Gateshead.

'We attended an address and two of our officers were subsequently assaulted. They were taken to hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

'Six people  aged from 15 to 54  were arrested in connection with the incident for offences relating to affray, resisting arrest and assaulting an emergency worker. They have since been bailed pending further police enquiries.'

The violence echoes last summer's riots in Leeds, West Yorks, when social services attempted to take four Romani children into care.

That incident saw a double-decker bus set on fire, a police car overturned, and officers pelted with missiles in the Harehills suburb.

The children were eventually returned to their extended family.
An entitled Spirit Airlines passenger learned a harsh lesson after attacking staff and throwing an absolute fit over being told she wasn't allowed on the flight.

In newly-unearthed footage, released by the YouTube channel Crime on Bodycam, a female flyer named Rachel quickly saw herself being dragged away from the airline's desk before even stepping foot on the plane.

The unhinged incident took place at Orlando International Airport in Florida as the woman attempted to catch a flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico after one of her family members died, she said.

In the beginning of the video, a group of three Orlando Police officers approached the woman at the counter as she kept trying to find a way on board despite being told she was not allowed to fly.

Though it is unclear why she was removed from the flight she paid for, Rachel told officers that a Spirit employee denied her access to the plane after she 'gave him an attitude.'

Authorities eventually got her to step away from the desk and tell them what the issue was, but Rachel continued to cry and try to speak to the airline staff.

'I'm sorry, listen, I paid for this flight. I paid for this flight,' she said as a male officer tried to get her to calm down.

'Listen, I had a family member die today - I just need to get home,' the woman, dressed in light purple leggings, a gray crop top, white sneakers, and a black scarf, explained to an officer.

Cops continued to speak to her and try to keep her away from the desk, but Rachel made her way back over and yelled at the staff, screaming 'I don't get it! I don't get it,' before reaching behind the desk and knocking over the computer, striking employees and officers in the process.

In newly-unearthed footage, a female flyer named Rachel, quickly saw herself being dragged away from a Spirit Airlines flight at Orlando International Airport after having a meltdown

After multiple cops tried to keep her away from the airline's desk, Rachel walked back over, continued to complain and then reached behind the desk screaming (pictured)

During the incident, which took place on August 30, 2023, authorities quickly grabbed Rachel as she repeatedly screamed: 'Take me to jail! Take me to jail!,' before landing on the floor.

Officers then tackled and handcuffed her as she continued to shriek.

Rachel then started to cry as three officers kept her on the ground, waiting for her to relax.

A woman then crouched down beside the passenger and told her: 'Calm down! You making it worse,' while officers called for backup.

The authorities then asked each other if they were okay, as a female officer said the irate woman hit them during the struggle.

A few minutes after handcuffing her, the officers rolled Rachel over and grabbed the scarf from around her neck.

'Kick your legs out,' an officer instructed her. 'I got it, I got it,' she replied as she sat up with her hair on her face.

While the last few passengers made their way on the plane, two more officers joined to help get the woman under control.

Officers with the Orlando Police Department eventually tackled her to the floor, where she screamed and cried to a long period of time

Rachel was then escorted out of the area on a wheelchair, where kept screaming and started to stomp her feet in protest

'Just let me go! Just let me go!,' Rachel tearfully asked the police.

She took some deep breaths as one officer stood behind, using his leg to stabilize her.

Meanwhile, airport staff and bystanders watched on, some of whom recorded the dramatic scenes themselves.

Rachel soon laid back on her stomach as one of the officers asked if she was injured.

She suddenly screamed 'this is so f***ed up!,' making the cop jump back as she kicked her feet out toward him.

The officers left her laying on the ground and waited for her calm down, as one told her: 'You just caught another charge for that for no reason,' to which she responded: 'I don't give a f***!'

Another officer then grabbed her feet as she continued to fight back.

'Get the f*** off of me! You guys are on me. Where the f*** am I gonna go?' she screamed as two more officers grabbed her arms.

'One, two, three, four, five, get the f*** away from me,' she said, counting the number of police officers surrounding her.

'That's not how it works,' an officer said as Rachel threatened to take legal action.

'I swear to God I'm gonna sue you guys! Get the f*** away from me! Move!,' she added.

It took the officers multiple tries to try and get Rachel to leave the area as she kept sitting up before falling back to the floor

'You're being combative, so that's what we're doing until we get a cart here,' a cop told her.

'I'm not, I literally told you guys my f***ing situation, and all you motherf***ers are insensitive as f*** because a motherf***er here doesn't know how to do customer service, the same shit I f***ing do in Miami. Get the f*** off of me,' Rachel said.

She then mocked one of the officers and continued: 'You don't know sh**, all you do is wear a f***ing suit, and you think you're good at it! While I'm here on the ground just tryna make it home because my family [member] died and it's such a f***ing big deal to you guys.'

'This is a f***ing show to everybody, and you're f***Ing hurting me,' she yelled as she turned toward the officer keeping her feet down.

He then told her that he wasn't putting pressure on her and that she can't continue to kick people.

'My knee is on the ground and my foot is on the side of you,' the officer clarified.

'I will put pressure if that's what you want me to do,' he added, as Rachel quickly snapped back: 'I know you will because you guys ain't sh**!'

She then raised her head a bit and realized how many people were watching her dramatic meltdown in the middle of the airport.

A wheelchair was then brought over to her as the officers directed her to get on it.

As she sat down, she asked the officers to make sure to get her belongings while she continued to curse at them.

'You guys ain't sh** my n****, y'all take your f***ing job too serious,' she said just before breaking out in tears again.

Rachel was charged with resisting arrest, battery on an officer and disorderly conduct

Police then escorted her out of the area as she whined and screamed, stomping her feet in the process.

They then made their way to an elevator as Rachel tried to stand up while complaining that her wrists hurt.

Once off the elevator, an officer tried to figure out which car to take Rachel to as she continued to sob uncontrollably in the background.

She started to apologize, as a cop told her: 'You can be sorry. No hard feelings, it's just business.'

They then rolled her outside to a patrol car as a female officer patted her down.

'I ain't do shit wrong!,' she screamed as they sat her in the vehicle.

Once she was in the car, an officer walked up to her and told her that she was being transported to the county jail, adding: 'You need to relax and stop acting up.'

Rachel was charged with resisting arrest, battery on an officer and disorderly conduct, according to the YouTube channel.

DailyMail.com contacted the Orlando Police Department for more information.
A Brazilian woman who claims she was effectively forced into sexual servitude by WiseTech boss Richard White is receiving specialist assistance from an anti-slavery group as she pursue the billionaire in court.

The revelation comes as billions of dollars continue to be wiped from Mr White's personal fortune amid prolonged and repeated scandals involving his explosive sex life.

The self-professed 'tech nerd' founded the Global logistics software firm in the mid-1990s before growing it into Australia's largest technology company with a value in excess of $32billion.

But since the saga broke last year, WiseTech Global's share price has plummeted from around $137 to around $90, scrubbing an estimated $6billion from Mr White's personal wealth in the process.

Mr White has consistently offloaded shares in the business, telling investors it was because there was demand from shareholders for more stock.

Nine Newspapers reported that he sold almost 3.6million shares between the start of October and December 20.

He offloaded a further 1.87 million shares since December 24, netting almost $230million from the sale.

In the latest controversy to engulf the software mogul since October, the billionaire and his wife Zena Nasser are currently being sued in the Federal Court by former employee Caroline Heidemann.

Richard White and his wife Zena Nasser (pictured together) are currently being sued in the Federal Court by former employee Caroline Heidemann

According to court documents, Ms Heidemann (pictured) claimed Mr White exploited her by providing her with ongoing financial support in return for sexual favours. The WIseTech boss denies this and claims they were in a consensual relationship

According to court documents, Ms Heidemann claimed Mr White exploited her by providing her with ongoing financial support in return for sexual favours.

She claimed Mr White initially 'cultivated a personal relationship' with her while she was employed as a 'general hand' by WiseTech for 15 months by 'presenting himself as a mentor and benefactor'.

Mr White has strenuously denied the accused and said he 'intends to vigorously defend all allegations'.

'At no point was Ms Heidemann offered an employment contract with RealWise nor was she ever paid a salary,' he said in a statement provided to the Australian Financial Review, which broke the original story.

'She did not at any stage undertake formal or informal work for either Mr White or RealWise.'

It has now emerged that Ms Heidemann is receiving assistance from specialist legal centre Anti-Slavery Australia.

The Brazilian national is being represented by KMD Law & Advisory but Anti-Slavery Australia is handling the visa aspect of her claim, the paper reported.

Daily Mail Australia approached the firm, which specialises in helping 'anyone who has experienced or is at risk of modern slavery in Australia', for comment.

Ms Heidemann is also suing Ms Nasser (pictured), who allegedly threatened to have her deported after learning about her husband's secret arrangement last year

It is understood she has been granted a temporary 'justice' visa to pursue her legal claim, which allows her to stay in Australia for up to a year.

When Ms Heidemann was made redundant during the coronavirus pandemic, Mr White allegedly arranged for her to be hired by his private company, RealWise Management.

While the Brazilian national was not paid a wage by RealWise, Mr White allegedly rented an apartment or her in Sydney's inner south, paid for her to take English lessons and offer her ongoing financial support.

Ms Heidemann claimed in the court documents that Mr White created an environment of 'economic dependency' by sponsoring her for a temporary visa as a 'business consultant' - thus restricting her to working or him - so he could engage in 'unlawful conduct for sexual gratification'.

She claimed Mr White 'made it clear that financial assistance was contingent upon...[her] engaging in a personal and sexual relationship' with him.

Ms Heidemann also alleged he subjected her to 'degrading treatment' by trading her financial security and immigration status or 'compliance with his personal and sexual demands'.

Mr White conceded he had been providing Ms Heidemann with private financial support but only because they had struck up 'a consensual personal relationship'.

Although the romance ended mid-last year, sources close to the former couple told the Australian Financial Review that he continued to help fund her lifestyle and had provided more than $500,000 in financial support since the start of their relationship.

Ms Heidemann is also suing Ms Nasser, who allegedly threatened to have her deported after learning about her husband's secret arrangement last year.

According to Ms Heidemann's claim, Ms Nasser sent her 'hostile and threatening messages' demanding she stop 'demanding financial support' from her husband and leave Australia or she would report her 'sham visa' to immigration authorities.

Two other women have also come forward to the WiseTech board with separate complaints through their lawyers about the billionaire's allegedly inappropriate conduct.

The scandal surrounding Mr White erupted in October last year after he counter-sued former lover Linda Rogan over a $92,000 furniture bill.

The scandal surrounding Mr White erupted in October last year after he counter-sued former lover Linda Rogan (pictured) over a $92,000 furniture bill

Ms Rogan, who owns a laser clinic at Double Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs, claimed she initially met Mr White through his wife - only for him to offer to invest in her business in exchange for sex.

She later launched a Federal Court battle over a $13.1million mansion she claimed Mr White had bought her in Sydney's most prestigious suburbs to live in with her three children.

Ms Rogan, who never moved into the house, claimed the tech billionaire took back the keys after his wife discovered they were in a sexual relationship.

In 2023, she successfully sought a local court order that Mr White reimburse her for $92,123 she allegedly spent on furnishing the Vaucluse mansion.

Revelations about their relationship found their way into the public domain when he had the order overturned last August.

The one-time lovers eventually reached an out-of-court settlement but, by then, all the salacious details for their romance had been laid bare.

It comes after the billionaire made headlines last year following revelations he had bought a $7million mansion for his former partner of seven years, Christine Kontos, while departing WiseTech director Christine Holman accused him of bullying and intimidation in 2019.

The ongoing saga and Mr White's influence over the firm resulted in four independent board members quitting in protest last week.

'This followed intractable differences in the Board and differing views around the role of the Founder and Founding CEO, Richard White,' a notice to the Australian Securities Exchange on Monday said.

Underlining his power over the company, Mr White was appointed executive chairman two days later.

He will oversee succession planning, including finding a permanent CEO, alongside the nomination committee, WiseTech said.

'I wanted to let you know that I am fully engaged and here for the long haul with invigorated vision, passion and a trove of new ideas to continue to build the company,' Mr White told investors on an earnings call on Wednesday.

'You have my absolute commitment to do everything within my power and ability to accelerate the business you have invested in and that has been so successful over the almost nine years since listing.

'It is also important to remember that WiseTech is a globally successful product led company with over 30 years of experience.'
Government proposals to allow Big Tech to scrape Britains musical archives will worsen the epidemic of AI deepfakes plaguing the internet, insiders have warned.

Record labels have revealed they are already sending tens of thousands of take-down requests each year to platforms hosting fake songs claiming to be by the UKs top artists.

With just a few clicks, users can create a convincing AI version of a track or music video  with many racking up millions of streams online.

Not only does this take money away from artists, but fans are also being duped into paying for what they believe is legitimate music.

Senior executives and trade bodies fear this battle will become far tougher if Labour goes ahead with its proposal to allow AI firms to use content for free.

Artists have automatic copyright protection that means tech firms should compensate them if they use their work to train AI models. But ministers favour a plan to give Big Tech an exception unless artists opt out.

At the Brit Awards on Saturday night, musicians such as Paloma Faith and McFlys Danny Jones and Tom Fletcher pushed the campaign against Labours plans by posing with a sign bearing the slogan Make It Fair.

At the Brit Awards on Saturday night, musicians such as Paloma Faith pushed the campaign against Labours plans to allow AI firms to use content for free

Cher, pictured performing with Dua Lipa last year, has said: If you work forever to become an artist and then someone just takes it from you, it seems like it should be illegal

A source at one of the UKs biggest record companies told the Mail it had issued 75,000 take-down requests of deepfakes over the past two years. Its an epidemic which will only get worse if the plan goes ahead, they said, adding that staff were having to search for fakes manually as they were so hard to detect.

And the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which represents the recording business worldwide, said it now had a team of 40 helping labels trawl the internet for clones.

Melissa Morgia, the IFPIs director of global content protection, said creating deepfakes is becoming easier as technology improves.

Beyonce last year told GQ magazine that an AI song sounded so much like me it scared me. While Cher told the Associated Press: If you work forever to become an artist and then someone just takes it from you, it seems like it should be illegal.
A renter hoping to move out of their parents' home was alarmed when a real estate agent made 'sketchy' stipulations for their application, one of which is not legally allowed.

An email shared to Reddit shows an agent in Melbourne asking a prospective tenant to share their daily bank statements and videos of their current home.

While listing the necessary documents for an application, the email asks them to include:

'A virtual tour of your current house by sending a video to my mobile WhatsApp with your name and property address.'

Melbourne and Sydney-based DK Property Partners, which is leasing the three bedroom home in West Footscray, has been contacted by Daily Mail Australia.

It describes itself as providing the absolute best standards of property management and customer service.

But a hopeful renter was alarmed when they saw the additional requests from an agent.

'It just seems sketchy but i could be wrong!' they wrote.

The house in West Footscray is being managed by DK Property Partners

The Reddit user shared the email to get opinions on whether it is 'sketchy' to ask for a video tour of their current home

Tenants Victoria says asking for day-to-day banking details is not allowed when people make an application for a property

'I've never heard of something like this before and neither has anybody I've asked and so I wanted to bring it here to get your opinions on it!' the user wrote.

Other social media users slammed the rental agent's email.

'Wow... this is odd. I would not do that, they can get references other ways,' one wrote.

'WhatsApp, video and address is a lot of information to share with no clarification of purpose. It's a no from me.'

Another commenter suggested this response: 'Thanks. If I'm to provide a virtual tour via WhatsApp, could you please provide two written references for the lessor from previous tenants?'

Tenants Victoria chief executive Jennifer Beveridge, told Daily Mail Australia the request should be refused.

'It's a pretty strange request. Prospective agents don't have a right to tour your current home,' she said.

'Renters should decline requests like this.'

Tenants Victoria says asking for day-to-day banking details is not allowed when people make an application for a property (stock image)

The story comes as a bill on housing reform is due to return to the upper house in Victorian parliament this week, which includes a limit to what agents can ask for in rental applications.

The email from the leasing agent listed other details a hopeful tenant would need to provide just for their application.

'All of you[sic] latest 3 months income bank statement, savings balance if available, tenancy ledger/ Rent History.'

According to Tenants Victoria's website, a rental provider, or their agent, are not allowed to ask about credit card or bank statements containing daily transactions during an application.
To back the Daily Mail campaign and write to your MP visit

Britain's creative industries are at risk without stronger AI protections, unions have warned.

Describing them as the jewel in the crown of the UK economy, the Trades Union Congress (TUC) calls for safeguards to ensure work is not stolen.

It comes after the Daily Mail, other national newspapers as well as figures in the creative industries launched a campaign to demand Big Tech pay a fair price for their content.

The Make it Fair campaign calls on the Labour Government to rethink its plans to change copyright law so content creators have to opt out and police the web to protect their work.

In a call for action today, the union body warns that time is running out to ensure copyright law is respected and to stop the theft of content by rapacious tech bosses.

The TUC called on ministers to go further to protect writers, artists, and journalists from a technology sector that is expanding rapidly.

It calls for an AI taskforce to bring together creative workers and unions to put in place protections to ensure the future of the sector.

Among its demand is for Big Tech companies to be transparent about whose work they are using, and to cite sources and label content clearly to ensure human and AI work are differentiated.

The TUC is calling for an AI taskforce to bring together creative workers and unions to put in place protections to ensure the future of the sector. Pictured, General Secretary Paul Nowak

They also call for an opt-in system so tech companies can only use work if permission and consent is given by its creator, and a fair price agreed.

It also wants creative workers to be protected from deep fakes and an independent regulator to oversee the use of AI.

They want creators to share in the productivity gains created by AI rather than having their content mined by them.

Getting this right will be vital for the future of the 126billion sector that employs 2.4million people - around seven per cent of all UK jobs.

Copyright law at present protects every creators work automatically, but ministers have proposed a change in the law which would allow Big Tech to ignore this, subject to a right for creators to opt out.

This would mean the onus would be on artists and publishers to protect their own work.

Ministers are under pressure to reconsider some of the proposed changes which could result in Britains demise as a cultural superpower.

TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak said: Writers, actors, performers, teachers, journalists and other creatives must have a say over how their work and image is used, and they must be paid fairly.

A new taskforce should be established bringing together creative workers, unions, technologists and government to manage the risks and maximise the opportunities of AI.

The government should change direction on current proposals and go further to protect creative workers and safeguard the future of the creative industries. The sector is a jewel in the crown of our economy and vital for growth.

The clock is ticking. Without proper guardrails put in place, rapacious tech bosses will continue to cash in on creatives work without their consent..
Chicago has been struggling with violent crime, financial instability, and political turmoil as Democratic Mayor Brandon Johnson's approval rating plummets to a dismal 14 percent.

In a shocking indictment of Johnson's leadership, nearly 80 percent of Chicago voters appear to have an unfavorable view of their mayor according to a recent Illinois Policy Institute poll.

A staggering 65 percent described their outlook as 'very unfavorable.'

It is a dramatically low figure for a man who has only been in office since May 2023 and marks the lowest mayoral approval rating in modern Chicago history.

It is not uncommon for political leaders to experience a decline in public support over time, particularly as they near the end of their term, but Johnson, 48, has endured a torrid tenure as Mayor since his election in 2022 and his near-total collapse in approval this early in his tenure is virtually unheard of.

His unpopularity even surpasses that of the U.S. Congress, which despite years of dysfunction and partisan gridlock still boasts a slightly higher approval rating at 29 percent.

The January poll revealed crime is the top concern for Chicago voters, followed closely by high taxes and mismanagement within city government.

Such issues have defined Johnson's time in office, and for many, his response has been woefully inadequate.

Democratic Mayor of Chicago Brandon Johnson's approval rating has plummeted to a dismal 14 percent

Under Johnson's watch, crime has continued to ravage the city, with carjackings, shootings, and rampant theft leaving residents fearful and frustrated. Pictured, Chicago police officers work at the scene where a man was fatally shot in Chicago's Uptown neighborhood in October

Last August Johnson was ranked as America's 'worst sanctuary mayor' by the Immigration Reform Law Institute, a watchdog

Johnson's meteoric rise to power was largely fueled by the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU), where he previously worked as an organizer.

The union poured millions into his campaign, effectively installing one of their own in the city's highest office.

While the close relationship managed to secure him strong backing from union loyalists, it appears to have alienated the broader electorate.

The poll revealed that 57 percent of voters are now less likely to support a candidate who takes campaign cash from the CTU, a clear indication that Johnson's deep ties to the controversial labor organization have become a political liability.

And taxpayers have good reason to be concerned. The CTU has put forward more than 700 new contract demands. If just a fraction are granted it could saddle Chicago Public Schools with a staggering $4 billion deficit by 2029.

Chicago's projected budget deficit is already a whopping $982.4 million, according to The Civic Federation.

Despite several tactics to save the city from bankruptcy, politicians have failed to get to the root of the issue - increasing pension payments to Chicago's more than 40,000 public employees.

Under Johnson's watch, crime has continued to ravage the city, with carjackings, shootings, and rampant theft leaving residents fearful and frustrated.

Donald Trump made gains with voters across Illinois during November's election, but he did not win the state

Johnson's tenure as Chicago Mayor has been dominated by the migrant crisis, with it revealed last year he spent upwards of $400 million on an influx of more than 42,000 migrants

His reluctance to take a hardline stance against criminal activity has drawn fierce criticism from both citizens and law enforcement officials, further eroding public confidence.

Many of Chicago's neighborhoods, once vibrant and thriving, have been hollowed out by rising violence and economic instability.

Voters in Chicago, like anywhere else, want to feel safe when they walk down the street.

But Johnson fell into the progressive politician's trap of going softer on lawbreakers than the public can stomach.

As America grappled with the police killing of George Floyd, Johnson, then Cook County Commissioner, joined others in calls to 'defund the police.'

He backtracked on this during a mayoral election campaign that pitted him against centrist Democrat Paul Vallas, who vowed to hire more officers amid widespread public safety concerns.

Even so, his mayorship has suffered by a lack of commitment to law and order.

The number of aggravated assaults in Chicago jumped 4 percent to 14,029 between 2023 and 2024, according to the Major Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA).

The numbers of homicides, rapes, and robberies fell slightly, but remains alarmingly high.

Small businesses are shuttering, longtime residents are fleeing, and an increasing number of families are questioning whether the city is still a viable place to build their future.

A lawsuit from last year revealed how from August 2022 to June 2024, over 42,000 migrants entered Chicago, and Johnson spent a staggering $400 million tackling the influx - with a huge percentage going towards private companies.

Fury over Johnson's approach reached boiling point as residents had an opportunity to make their voices heard directly to the Democrat.

One exasperated woman told him: 'We're in a billion-dollar deficit, and you spent half of our money on illegals?'

The lawsuit revealed how the city spent over $400 million on migrants within two years.

Migrants living at the Chicago Police Department's 15th District are seen outside the station last September

More than 42,000 migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have arrived in Chicago by bus from the Texas border. Chicago, which is a sanctuary city has been housing the asylum seekers at police stations, O'Hare International Airport, and city-run shelters

According to an investigation from NBC5, the bulk of the money went to private companies that provide services including staffing migrant shelters and creating lease agreements.

A staggering $253 million went to just one company, Kansas-based Favorite Healthcare Staffing, to employ migrant shelters.

And last spring, Johnson revealed that he was seeking $70 million of taxpayer money to help with the budget shortfall caused by the migrants.

Chicago is not the only liberal US city struggling to cope with the influx of immigrants and asylum seekers across the southern border.

But Johnson has struggled especially hard to accommodate the tens of thousands of newcomers who arrived looking for work and schools and without a roof over their heads.

When his administration turned public schools into shelters and doled out apartments to foreigners, residents in the mostly-black affected neighborhoods vented their ire on social media.

Mayor Johnson leads a city of more than 2.6 million residents

In one viral clip, an African-American woman slammed the mayor's support for asylum seekers, with shelters and $9,000 payouts, saying it was at the expense of the blacks who helped elect him.

'I don't understand how they can give these immigrants thousands of dollars in the state of Illinois, but look what they're doing to our own f******g people,' said the Chicago woman.

She described seeing 'Latinos' arriving in her neighborhood in a '12-foot box truck,' using government welfare checks to 'buy up everything' and effectively price black residents out.

'The fact they are here, and our government is giving more to them than to the people who were born here, is really starting to p**s us off,' she added.

'Mayor Brandon, we are coming for your a**.'
Authorities are investigating the source of a 'suspicious' blaze that broke out in an abandoned inner-city church on Monday amid revelations the site was being used as a notorious squatting hotspot.

Firefighters converged on Our Lady of the Assumption on Park St, in South Melbourne, within six minutes of receiving reports of the fire about 8.20am.

By the time they arrived on the scene, smoke could be seen billowing from the roof of the disused, brick chapel while flames raced along the outside of the building.

The Fire Rescue Victoria crews battled the inferno for about 40 minutes before bringing it 'under control' but remain on site while it is 'fully extinguished'.

'FRV crews donned breathing apparatus and began an aggressive attack on the fire, as well as protecting a neighbouring apartment building from the blaze,' a spokesperson said.

Although the cause of the fire was still to be determined, firefighters have already been able to trace the blaze's trajectory through the fire-ravaged chapel.

'The fire started in a rear room of the church before extending into the roof space of the main chapel and has caused significant damage to the structure,' the FRV spokesperson said.

The historic church was founded in 1928 and served the region's growing Irish Catholic population for more than half a century.

But the building has fallen into disuse since the parish was closed three decades ago.

Authorities said the fire's cause, yet unknown, is being treated with suspicion

Fire Rescue Victoria arrived on the scene within six minutes of receiving reports of the fire

The FRV spokesman said squatters were reported to have inhabited the building in recent years - though no one was in inside at the time the blaze broke out.

Witnesses said members of the public rushed to help firefighters as they struggled to contain the inferno and cordoedn off the site for them until police arrived.

One local, Andrew, who was walking his dog when he noticed 'large plumes of white smoke' billowing from the old church building, said motorists even used their cars to close the streets and prevent traffic from disrupting the fire response.

'The streets were filled with smoke... the fire trucks were just arriving as we arrived on the scene,' he said.

'Members of the public appeared to use their vehicles to block the road as people were attempting to driver over fire hoses.

Andrew, who posted images of the blaze to his Instagram page, added that some drivers on an adjacent road were trapped for some time by fire hose lines.

'The fire brigade response was so quick it seemed to catch the cars off guard and the got stuck.'

Commuters across South Melbourne spotted the plume which clouded nearby streets

Commuters helped to cordon-off the scene before police arrived

Angela, who works at a nearby kindergarten, said the staff were on tenterhooks as they 'waited to see if they'd need to evacuate'.

'We first noticed the smell when we arrived around 8am,' she said.

Police Victoria confirmed the fire was 'being treated as suspicious' and told Daily Mail Australia an 'arson chemist' would start investigating the cause of the blaze on Monday afternoon.

How the fire will affect the fate of a proposed mixed use development being built beside the church is yet to be determined.

Developed by Gurner Group promotions for the apartment complex appeared to rely on the neighbouring church as a selling point.

The group's website said the development would planned 'the natural balance of things' in the neighbourhood by complementing the existing landmarks.

'Proudly collaborating with masters of craft Fender Katsalidis and Jack Merlo, Gurner has ensured the heritage church and the striking new contemporary form will remain quintessentially "South Melbourne" in nature,' it boasted.
Two girls in New York City admitted they were 'actually the dumbest people ever' for getting stuck on their fire escape after locking themselves out of their apartment.

One of the girls, Alex, went viral after sharing a video on TikTok that captured the moment she realized she was stranded with her friend and needed help from the fire department.

While enjoying the unseasonably warm New York City weather, the two girls noticed that the window was locked behind them.

'This is so embarrassing,' one of the girls confessed when they realized the situation they got themselves into.

'I believe I need the fire department?' Alex asked on the phone. 'It's not a fire... um... we're locked out on a fire escape,' she explained.

As they waited for help, one girl joked with the other, 'What if they bring a whole fire truck?'

'We're so stupid,' the other responded.

Sure enough, help came in a fire truck and stopped in front of their apartment on a residential street in Manhattan.

The New York Fire Department came to the rescue when two girls accidentally locked themselves out of their apartment

The girls frantically called the fire department when they realized the windows locked behind them

They watched from above as multiple firefighters got out of the firetruck and began setting up shop to help them.

One firefighter climbed up to their fire escape and smirked when he saw the girls trapped outside. He shook his head and laughed as he tried to rig the locked window open.

'This is so bad,' one of the girls said to the other.

The firefighter used a crowbar to force the window open and eventually got the girls back inside.

'No way!' They cheered after they finally got back into their apartment.

'You're like fighting fires and we just asked you to open a window,' the girl joked with the firefighter.

They both profusely thanked the firefighter for coming to their rescue and couldn't stop laughing at the ridiculous situation.

'I'm so happy you helped us,' they added as the firefighter climbed through the window.

Alex asked for the fire department's assistance when she realized she couldn't get back into her apartment

The firefighter climbed up the fire escape and used a crowbar to force the locked window open to save the girls

The girls profusely thanked the firefighter after he helped them get back inside their apartment

The video was posted on Saturday and has already amassed over 37,000 likes on TikTok.

Alex captioned the video with a message to her neighbors who watched the unusual event.

'Thank you to the girls cheering us on from across the street,' she joked.

Alex frequently shares videos on her TikTok account documenting her life as a college student living in New York City.

She posts vlogs about her life to her 166,000 followers, earning her over 12 million likes on her videos.
A missing Paddington Bear monument has been found, and two men have been arrested for stealing the iconic statue from his creator's hometown.

The sculpture of the popular character written about by Michael Bond and featuring in a recent trilogy of hit films was unveiled last October in Newbury, Berkshire.

But on Sunday, March 2, the figure of Paddington vanished - leaving behind only a coat still lingering on the seat, just yards from a poster promoting the bear's latest movie.

Thames Valley Police said the statue on Northbrook Street was cut in half and stolen just after 2am.

Two 22-year-old men, both from Basingstoke, have been held on suspicion of theft and criminal damage and remain in police custody.

The stolen part of the statue was recovered by officers.

Investigating officer inspector Alan Hawkett said: 'The Paddington Bear statue is a beloved part of Newbury so we have been doing everything we can to locate it and the offenders.

'I am delighted we have made two arrests and recovered the statue, which we will keep safe and support its restoration to its rightful place in Northbrook Street.

Thames Valley Police are now investigating after the figure of the bear himself disappeared

Police previously posed alongside a statue of Paddington Bear in Newbury, Berkshire

The monument was unveiled amid promotion for the movie Paddington In Peru

'In the meantime, Paddington is heading to Newbury police station for a much-needed marmalade sandwich.'

Lee Dillon, Liberal Democrat MP for Newbury, said in a post on X: 'Heartbreaking to see that Paddington in Newbury has been vandalised. He brings so much joy to our community.

'Just yesterday, I stopped to take a photo of him with my family. This senseless damage is so disappointing.'

Paddington In Peru, with Ben Whishaw back as the voice of the title character and Oscar winner Olivia Colman as the villain, was released in cinemas last November.

It follows previous big-screen adaptations whose stars included Hugh Grant, Nicole Kidman, Hugh Bonneville and Dame Julie Walters.

Marmalade sandwich-loving Paddington, who first appeared in books written by Bond in the 1950s, was named after the London station where he was discovered - wearing a tag that urged: 'Please look after this bear.'

That same railway terminus now has a statue in his honour, but others have been erected elsewhere across the country.

Paddington Bear's fond place in UK hearts was symbolised by his appearance in a sketch alongside the late Queen Elizabeth II as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022.

Only the outer coating has been left behind on the bench in the town centre in Berkshire

Newbury was the birthplace of Paddington author Bond, who died in June 2017 aged 91.

The monument showcased there five months was one of dozens installed across Britain as part of what was called the 'Paddington Visits' trail.

And the Newbury link to Paddington's creator was highlighted by local officials, with West Berkshire councillor Louise Sturgess calling it an 'extra special connection'.

Ms Sturgess, the local authority's portfolio holder for economic development and regeneration, said at the time: 'We're really, really pleased to be able to bring him home - who doesn't love Paddington?'

Other places where versions of the bear popped up - in promotion of the latest film update - included Land's End in Cornwall and a Sunderland shopping centre.

Yet Newbury was the only location given permission to keep its Paddington permanently - leaving locals now shocked by the sudden loss.

A gazebo was raised to conceal the bench as the police probe got under way.
The family of best mates Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones have lashed out months after the teenagers died from suspected methanol poisoning while on holiday in Laos.

Holly, 19, died in Thailand a day after the death of her best friend, Bianca, also 19, after drinking tainted alcohol in the tourist town of Vang Vieng in November.

Bianca's family now called for a tourist boycott of the country after they say they have been denied justice, and slammed Laos authorities for failing to act over the tragedy.

'It's incredibly concerning, it seems to reek of a cover-up,' Bianca's father Mark told the ABC on Monday.

'There's been no communication, we've had no updates. We were led to believe they had 12 people in custody, they've all been released.'

Bianca's mother Michelle spoke of her heartbreak at the lack of clarity from Laos officials.

'Our girls were murdered and nothing's getting done. And that's really hard,' she said.

An American man, a British woman and two Danish women also died from suspected methanol poisoning in Van Vieng at the same time.

The family of best mates Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles (pictured left and right respectively) have lashed out months after they died from suspected methanol poisoning in Laos

Melbourne teen Bianca Jones (pictured) died in hospital in November

Australian teenager Holly Bowles (pictured) died after suffering alleged methanol poisoning during a holiday in Laos with her best friend

While a rundown factory where the drinks were believed to have been distilled remains closed and the Nana Backpacker Hostel remains shut, many of the bars where the girls enjoyed drinks before they died have since reopened.

Those detained - all foreign nationals - were identified as hotel staff and management from the backpacker hostel where the girls had stayed.

They have all now reportedly been released but put under house arrest with their passports confiscated.

The Australian parents of the girls branded the investigation as 'disgraceful' and 'horrendous' and accused Laos authorities of excluding them from information.

And Mr Jones suggested Lao authorities had made sure no locals were caught up in the international scandal.

'I can't imagine that from the distilling process through to handing out drinks, there's not one Lao national who was involved in the chain - so something seems incredibly off,' he said.

The teenagers were farewelled in heartbreaking funerals just before Christmas in December.

Mr Jones said the families' despair had now turned to anger as Laos authorities appeared to sit on their hands.

Holly Bowles' casket was adorned with dozens of pink roses. Pink was her favourite colour

Bianca Jones makes her final journey after a service in her honour in December

'I'm incredibly angry,' he told the ABC.

'My daughter's dead and her best friend is dead and we've got two Danes who are dead, there's an English lawyer who's dead, there's an American man who's dead and there seems to be no progress in these investigations.'

The teenagers had been enjoying the trip of a lifetime when they died in the tragedy.

Holly lost her fight for life in a Bangkok hospital surrounded by her loved ones in December a day after Bianca died in a different hospital.

'We find comfort and solace in knowing that Holly bought so much joy and happiness to so many people,' Holly's family said at the time.

'Holly was living her best life travelling through South East Asia meeting new friends and enjoying incredible experiences.'

'As her parents we were always so incredibly proud of everything Holly did. Holly was an amazing big sister to James and she always looked out for him.'

Holly's parents Shaun Bowles and Samantha Morton said they were now concerned someone would be be set up to be made a scapegoat for the tragedy.

Holly Bowles was farewelled in December

Bianca Jones died while on the dream trip to Laos

Bianca Jones' mother is seen on the left being supported by the mother of Holly Bowles. The family's golden retriever, Zara, was also at the service

'With everything we've seen, it's very hard to have any confidence that the right person will be held accountable,' Mr Bowles said.

The Laos government has refused to co-operate with media requests for information on the investigation, with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs continuing to call for a 'transparent and thorough investigation' from it.

The Bowles family has now warned Australians to think twice about visiting Laos.

'Don't go. Don't go. It's just not safe for travellers, it just isn't and we've seen that first hand,' Ms Morton said.

Holly's father shared similar concerns.

'If you want people to come to your country, make it safe. Make it a safe place,' he said.

The Australian families have shared support from those suffering on the other side of the planet.

Didier and Anne-Marie Orkild from Denmark, whose daughter Anne-Sofie also died from tainted alcohol in Laos, were not even informed of her death by authorities, they told the ABC.

Hostel manager and bartender Duong Duc Toan (pictured), has claimed it wasn't his Tiger Vodka that made the tourists sick

Laos is known for its party atmosphere and bargain basement prices

They claimed they were pressured into accepting a death certificate with no mention of methanol in order to have her body repatriated.

'The level of collaboration of the authorities basically trying to hide a corpse in a closet, almost saying nothing happened  is absolutely ridiculous,' Mr Orkild said.

They backed the call for young travellers to boycott the South-East Asian country.

'Do not go, simply, it's way too dangerous,' Mr Orkild.

In the UK, the mother of English victim Simone White continues to fight for answers.

British authorities have opened an inquest into her daughter's death but the results of her post-mortem examination are contingent on the investigation in Laos being finalised, it was reported.

That inquest could take years to finalise.

'[Simone] wouldn't have wanted her death to be in vain,' she said.

'When I was over there I promised that I would get justice for her so I'm just trying to follow it through really.'

With the world's media now focused elsewhere, Laos has returned to normal amid new reports of suspicious drinks being served in local bars emerging on social media.
The attempted abduction of a four-year-old girl was said to have been stopped by two female churchgoers who wrestled the man to the ground and stopped him.

The man reportedly entered Holy Trinity Church in West Bromwich, West Midlands at pace and attempted to abduct the child on Sunday.

But before he could make a break for it, two women reportedly grappled the man and dragged him to the floor.

One churchgoer who witnessed the incident said the suspect was 'like a man possessed' as he charged towards the young girl.

'He came bursting in and went for the girl,' they told The Sun.

'Two worshippers managed to get hold of him and stop him escaping with the youngster. It was an awful thing to see.

'But both of them did so well to stop him.'

Police arrived on the scene at 12.30pm arrested the man on suspicion of attempted child abduction.

The attempted abduction took place inside Holy Trinity Church in West Bromwich, West Midlands on Sunday, March 2

A West Midlands Police spokesman said: 'We have arrested a man in connection with the attempted abduction of a four-year-old child.

'We were called to a church on Burlington Road at around 12.38pm following a report that a man had picked up the child and was refusing to let her go.

'Members of the public assisted and the man was arrested by officers on suspicion of attempted child abduction.

'He remains in police custody.

'Thankfully, the child was not injured and we're continuing to offer support to the child and her family.'

Detective Chief Inspector Fox added: 'We fully understand the concerns this will have caused but we do believe it is an isolated incident.

'We will have officers in the area offering reassurance to the local community. If you have any concerns, please come and speak with us.'
A Qantas captain has been forced to turn his plane around and perform an emergency landing just moments into a cross-country flight after spotting smoke in the airliner's cockpit.

Hundreds of passengers travelling from Sydney to Perth on QF643 endured an 'unsettling experience' after their pilot requested urgent access to the runway mere minutes into their 8:45am flight on Monday.

The Boeing 737 then circled the airport before being cleared for a priority landing and returning to its gate, where it was met by emergency services as the plane's rattled passengers were disembarked.

'We understand this would have been an unsettling experience for customers and apologise for the inconvenience,' a Qantas spokesperson said.

'Our pilots are highly trained to handle situations like this and the aircraft landed safely after the appropriate procedures were conducted.'

The spokesperson confirmed that a special flight had been arranged for the affected passengers, with the replacement plane departing Sydney at 11:30am.

Engineers were already investigating the cause of the smoke in the aircraft's cockpit.

The airline apologised to passengers who would have had an 'unsettling experience'

Qantas flight QF643 circled Sydney before landing back at the airport due to a technical issue

It is not too long ago that Qantas had to ground a flight from the same airport, making an emergency landing.

Qantas flight QF520, which was heading to Brisbane in November 2024, had just taken off from Sydney shortly before 1pm when one of the engines failed.

Passengers on board the plane reported hearing a loud bang before the plane was forced to circle Botany Bay before making an emergency landing.

Qantas denied reports that an explosion has occurred and instead described the incident as a 'contained engine failure'.
CNN has categorically rejected a wild conspiracy theory fueled by Joe Rogan that the network was 'tipped off' about the assassination attempt on Donald Trump's life.

The cable news channel livestreamed a heavily-publicized Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13 as he made a bid for his return to the White House.

As Trump addressed the crowd, he was shot at and narrowly escaped with his life. A bullet grazed his ear, while one bystander was killed and two others critically injured.

Rogan, who runs the most successful podcast in the nation with 14 million monthly listeners, shared a new episode on Friday alongside 'First Buddy' Elon Musk in which he speculated about the incident.

'You also know that CNN streamed it live, which I do not believe they did for any other rally  and certainly not for a rally in the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania,' he said.

'Like, there's a lot of weird s**t.'

Musk agreed, saying: 'I totally agree it makes no sense.'

Those comments later went viral on X, sparking theories that CNN was 'tipped off' and demands for an investigation into the matter.

CNN has categorically rejected a wild conspiracy theory fueled by Joe Rogan that it was 'tipped off' about the assassination attempt on Donald Trump 's life

Rogan, who runs the most successful podcast in the nation with 14 million monthly listeners, shared a new episode on Friday alongside 'First Buddy' Elon Musk in which he speculated about the incident

'You also know that CNN streamed it live, which I do not believe they did for any other rally  and certainly not for a rally in the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania,' Rogan said. 'Like, there's a lot of weird s**t'

But CNN have now hit back and offered a very simple explanation as to their decision to live stream that particular rally.

'CNN provided live coverage of President Trump's Butler, PA, rally in anticipation of news about his pick for Vice President,' the network said.

'Any suggestion contrary to that fact is completely false.'

Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman shared the Rogan clip, writing: 'What are the chances @CNN was tipped off to stream the Butler rally?'

'Why isn't this worthy of an investigation? It shouldn't be too hard to figure out who orders the coverage and why.'

Fox News Contributor Joe Concha also weighed in, adding: 'This is 100% correct.

'I was about to go on the air to co-host The Big Weekend Show and noticed this on my way in. CNN never airs Trump rallies anymore (they aired plenty in 2015-2016 for ratings). The question is - why this one?'

The shooter was later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20. He was shot dead by authorities after firing several shots at Trump.

Musk agreed, saying: 'I totally agree it makes no sense'

Crooks is pictured walking around the Trump rally before opening fire hours later, killing an attendee, critically injuring two others and grazing the former president's right ear

Trump speaks behind a casing of bullet proof barriers at a rally in Wilmington, North Carolina on September 21. The glass became a common sight at the former president's outdoor rallies following the shooting

Trump returned to the scene of the shooting later during his presidential campaign, sending a defiant message to his critics.

'On this very ground, a cold blooded assassin aimed to silence me and to silence the greatest movement - MAGA - in the history of our country. MAGA, we love MAGA,' he said when he returned.

'For 16 harrowing seconds during the gunfire time stopped as this vicious monster unleashed pure evil from his sniper's perch not so far away.

'But by the hand of Providence and the grace of God that villain did not succeed in his goal, did not come close to stopping our movement. He did not shake our unyielding resolve to save America.'

Pennsylvania was a key swing state both Trump and Kamala Harris were vying for. Trump ultimately won it, along with every other swing state in a triumphant victory over the Democrats to return to the White House.
Footage of dozens of brightly-coloured vapes lying scattered by the side of a road has appalled Aussies, as the illegal e-cigarettes reportedly continue to flood into the country in record numbers.

A video filmed on the busiest road in Australia, Melbourne's West Gate Freeway, exposed how the median strip has become a graveyard for vapes.

The short clip, taken by a truckie in heavy traffic, sparked outrage.

'Grubs that used to throw cigarettes out the windows, now moved on to another level,' fumed one commenter.

'Zero respect for their country.'

Another branded the spectacle 'filthy and disgusting'.

'But why does it get to this level?', they asked.

'Whoever is responsible for this area needs to have a regular at least once a week cleaning schedule. This is what taxpayers pay for.'

Another quipped: 'Dont worry, we banned plastic straws'.

A video filmed on the busiest road in Australia, Melbourne 's West Gate Freeway, exposed how the median strip has become a graveyard for vapes (pictured)

Pip Kiernan, chair of environmental not-for-profit Clean Up Australia, said the footage was 'so disappointing to see on the streets of Melbourne'.

'Vapes are a triple threat to the environment as they contain plastic waste, e-waste with the lithium ion battery enclosed and hazardous waste with the toxins they contain,' Ms Kiernan told Daily Mail Australia.

'They don't belong in the kerbside bin and the absolutely don't belong in the environment.'

Ms Kiernan called for a nationally-consistent approach to the disposal of vapes.

'There is an urgent need for a nationwide safe system for the disposal of vapes,' she added.

'Rules around disposal vary from location to location.'

Clean Up Australia warns that vapes must never be thrown away in a kerbside bin because their lithium-ion batteries present a fire risk.

It comes as a former Border Force official has unleashed on the Albanese government for allegedly failing to stem the flow of vapes and black market cigarettes into the country.

Clean Up Australia warns that vapes must never be thrown away in a kerbside bin because their lithium-ion batteries present a fire risk (pictured: some of the most popular vape brands)

The number of people aged 14 and over who reported vaping more than doubling from 2.5 per cent in 2019 to 7 per cent in 2022-2023, according to the latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey

Rohan Pike, who led Border Force's first illicit tobacco strike team, alleged that vapes were now 'more available and in more flavours', despite a government ban on the importation and sale of vapes last year.

'My local illegal trader is now advertising vape flavours and prices in the front window of his shop and my barber tells me he is buying packets of Manchester for $7 from a shop that was raided but reopened 48 hours later,' Mr Pike told the Herald Sun.

'We are miles away from adopting an enforcement regime that deters criminals from entering this lucrative business.'

Vapes have exploded in popularity in recent years, particularly among young people.

The number of people aged 14 and over who reported vaping more than doubling from 2.5 per cent in 2019 to 7 per cent in 2022-2023, according to the latest National Drug Strategy Household Survey.

Under the government's ban, vapes can only be sold in pharmacies to people with a prescription.

But they can still be bought under the counter in many newsagents and tobacconists.
Allies of the United States who want to enjoy good relations with the superpower in the coming four years need to better understand what motivates Donald Trumps approach to international relations.

In short, US allies need to know their worth, or lack thereof, in Trump's world view.

That includes Australia. Our alliance with the US has been the bedrock of our approach to foreign affairs since World War II. Will that continue?

Trump is no scholar of international relations nor international diplomacy. Hes not a student of history either. Im not even certain how much historical knowledge he has beyond the basics.

And in his second term as President - so far, at least - Trump is showing all the signs of following his own instincts on what should be done on the international stage, rather than outsourcing such matters to bureaucrats and experts who have spent their entire working lives in the field.

We also need to consider that Trumps shift in the US approach to global affairs could be extended beyond just his Presidency. If the lurch towards isolationism is popular domestically in the months and years ahead, future Presidential candidates might follow the same mantra.

Dont forget the US embraced isolationism in the aftermath of World War I until the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour.

So where does all of this leave the US today, and what does it mean for allies like Australia going forward?

USA allies who want to enjoy good relations with the superpower in the coming four years need to understand what motivates Donald Trumps approach to international relations

Our alliance with the US has been the bedrock of our approach to foreign affairs since World War II (pictured PM Anthony Albanese with former President Joe Biden in October 2023)

Trump is a businessman, a deal maker. He favours US isolationism, protectionism in trade (to appeal to his working class voting base), and wants more from allies who expect American military and geo-political protection.

In Trumps world, the US does too much on the global stage, isnt adequately compensated and doesnt received the recognition or applause that it should when it puts itself out there.

These sentiments help explain why he had that fiery exchange with Ukrainian President Zelensky in the Oval Office.

With his ambitious Vice President and 'wannabe Trump mini-me' JD Vance in tow, the pair scolded Zelensky for not showing enough respect.

But away from the theatre of the exchange, what it highlighted was that in Trumps world, international relations is all about US vital interests now: If you don't matter to him, he doesn't care about you.

If allies cannot demonstrate a mutual benefit based on hard, vital interests then they need to develop an alternative plan.

It is why Trump wants NATO to spend more to protect Europe, for example. It is why he wants Ukraine to embrace realism in negotiations with Russia, to attain a peaceful end to the conflict. So the US isnt forced to keep funding the Ukrainian resistance without an end in sight.

It all seems obvious and simple in Trumps mind, even if scholars and foreign affairs practitioners see serious faults with the approach.

Australias biggest risk in a Trump world is becoming the ham in the proverbial sandwich if tensions escalate between the US and China

Trump's concerns about China mean that our alliance is one that he will want to maintain and ensure doesnt fade to the detriment of the US

For Australia, even in Trumps world, our alliance and by extension, our security, in an uncertain world should be fine to survive his presidency.

Our geographical location coupled with the housing of US military personnel in Darwin as well as providing safe harbour elsewhere for the US Navy means that we adhere to Trumps vital interests mantra.

Remember, the US is safely isolated geographically. Protected by oceans the US could safely withdraw from being at the centre of global disputes and remain 'secure' with strong trade links to maintain its prosperity.

As long as the rise and rise of China doesn't become a problem, that is.

Trump's concerns about China mean that our alliance is one that he will want to maintain and ensure doesnt fade to the detriment of the US.

But that doesn't mean it will all be smooth sailing for Australia. Economically, flashpoints are likely to emerge, given our economic dependence on exports to China alongside the importance of our military and economic arrangements with the US.

Perhaps Australias biggest risk in a Trump world is becoming the ham in the proverbial sandwich if tensions escalate between the US and China, thereby putting one of the relationships under serious strain.

On the plus side, because even Trump can recognise the value strategically of Australia to US vital interests, he wont jeopardise the alliance on insignificant grounds.

That will be cold comfort for some, no doubt, but we are no Ukraine in Trumps eyes.
Texas parents were left outraged when their middle school-aged children came home from class with tattoos.

Ashley Armstrong said her 11-year-old son, Jordan, told her that a boy in his class at Travis Intermediate School approached him on Tuesday, and gave him tattoos down his arms reading 'I heart my lord' and 'JC' tattooed on his hands.

'He got punishment for it. He knows better,' she told Fox 4 News. 'He shouldn't have done it in the first place.'

The same needle used on Jordan was then used to tattoo even more middle school students, Armstrong noted, claiming that more than a dozen other parents reached out to her to say their children were also tattooed.

The school nurse even urged parents of each of the students to get their blood tested for any infections immediately.

Fortunately Jordan's test results came back negative, but Armstrong says she still worries about any long-term effects, including whether the tattoos will leave Jordan permanently scarred.

'This could affect him. Seriously affect him,' she said. 'I am not letting up on none of that.'

Greenville Independent School District officials have since released a statement saying they are 'aware' that 'students gave each other tattoos using temporary ink and the same needle.'

Ashley Armstrong was left outraged when her 11-year-old son, Jordan, was tattooed by his fellow classmates at Travis Intermediate School in Texas

The boy got tattoos down his arms reading 'I heart my lord' and 'JC' tattooed on his hands

'Due to the health and safety risks involved, the District immediately launched an investigation,' the district posted on social media.

'At this time, teachers assigned to the classrooms where the incident allegedly occurred have been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation. Their role in this matter will be reviewed to determine if further disciplinary action is warranted.'

'The District administration strongly condemns the alleged activities and will not tolerate such conduct,' it continued.

The teachers who allegedly let the students ink themselves have not been identified, but The Herald Banner reports that there were just two that were suspended.

Meanwhile, district officials say, it is working with local law enforcement to identify all of the students involved.

'A comprehensive review of the affected campus will be conducted to ensure that the incident in question remains an isolated occurrence and does not happen again,' the online statement says.

'Student safety is our top priority,' the school officials insisted.

Greenville Independent School District officials have since released a statement saying they are 'aware' that 'students gave each other tattoos using temporary ink and the same needle'

The Greenville Police Department, though, told WFAA it is not involved in the investigation, and it remains unclear which law enforcement agency is working with the district in the matter.

It also remains unclear how a student may have brought the needle into school, and whether he or she will face any discipline.

The school also did not specify whether the teachers knew that the tattooing was taking place in their classes.
Andrew Tate, the rape and human trafficking accused 'manfluencer' who was allowed to leave Romania for the US last week, has been compared to terrorists and religious extremists by Australian academics.

They also found Tate's attacks on boys and men who don't fit 'his very rigid interpretation of masculinity' are far more common than his sexist views on women.

Professor Steven Roberts and Dr Stephanie Wescott of Melbourne's Monash University analysed more than 2,200 posts by Tate on his website and the Telegram messaging platform from December 31, 2019 to January 9, 2024.

'The extremist radicalisation of boys and men by 'manfluencer' Andrew Tate shares concerning parallels to other forms of radicalisation, such as terrorist and religious extremism,' the study found.

The experts said their analysis showed that 'what might seem like innocuous or harmless 'self-improvement' content is a gateway to more dangerous misogynistic and extremist content.

Almost 90 per cent of the posts by Tate on his website and Telegram account focused 'on advancing particular projections of what he views as the ideal manifestation of manhood and masculinity,' the research found.

In these posts, the academics said: 'Tate positions his version of masculinity as something aspirational that will 'free' men by giving them money and power.

'This finding stands at odds with popular understanding of Tate's fixation on the place of women in society, which features in only 11 per cent of his website and Telegram content.'

Andrew Tate's attacks on boys and men who don't fit 'his very rigid interpretation of masculinity' are far more common than his sexist views on women, an Australian study has found. Tate is pictured centre

Andrew Tate (centre) speaks with the media as he and his brother Tristan (right) arrive at Fort Lauderdale Airport in Florida, USA, on February 27 2025

Professor Roberts said the research proves the viral social media clips amplifying Tate's views don't accurately capture the most alarming aspects of his harmful commentary.

'What we see in these longer-form texts are Tate's unfiltered views and framing of masculinity, and is framed as 'self-help' content for men and boys to reach a superior version of themselves,' he said.

'The way Tate is manipulating boys and men to conform to this restrictive and narrow-minded interpretation of what a male should look and act like has the potential to be hugely damaging to culture and society in a wider sense.'

Professor Roberts said this was 'concerning because it is reminiscent of the kind of messaging that drives those who feel disenfranchised by their community to identify with and act out the teachings of fringe religious or political extremist groups'.

Dr Wescott, who researches the impact of Tate's 'manfluencing' on boys in Australian schools, said the analysis shows why the dangerous influence of Tate on boys and men needs to be addressed.

'Most people who see short clips of Andrew Tate and others like him would understandably think his focus is on misogyny and sexism,' she said.

'While that is undoubtedly part of their rhetoric, it shadows in comparison to the more nuanced attacks he wages against boys and men who he views as not subscribing to his very rigid interpretation of masculinity.

The lecturer added that what makes Tate's content appealing 'is that it's packaged as a self-improvement product with hateful themes subtly woven in.

'As with any form of extremism, this feel and appearance of non-threatening, non-radical and life-improving support is what makes it insidious, attractive and ultimately influential.'

Tate and his brother Tristan flew by private jet into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport last Thursday after a 12-hour flight from Europe.

Andrew Tate (right) waves as he leaves a court with his brother Tristan, in Bucharest, Romania

The brothers, who are joint US and UK nationals but lived near Romania's capital Bucharest, were arrested in 2022 on charges of human trafficking, sexual misconduct, money laundering and forming an organised crime group.

They have denied any wrongdoing.

They also face charges including accusations of rape and human trafficking in the UK, and a court in Bucharest has ruled that they can be extradited to Britain once a final decision is reached in their case in Romania.

Their lawyer said the 'primary' reason they feel safe to return to the US is that 'Donald Trump is the president'.

A police officer escorts Andrew Tate, left, handcuffed, from the Court of Appeal in Bucharest, Romania on March 12, 2024

Speaking to reporters outside the airport, Andrew Tate said: 'We live in a democratic society where we are innocent until proven guilty and I think me and my brother are largely misunderstood.

'There are a lot of opinions about us. A lot of things that go around about us on the internet.'

British women accusing Andrew Tate of rape said they are 'in disbelief' and 'feel retraumatised by the news that the Romanian authorities have given into pressure from the Trump administration' and allowed him to travel.

'We can only hope that the British authorities finally take action and do something about this terrifying unfolding situation to ensure he faces justice in the UK,' the women said in a joint statement to MailOnline.
The BBC's chief of news reportedly gave the green light to its controversial new Gaza documentary before it was broadcast.

Deborah Turness, Chief Executive of BBC News and Current Affairs, watched Gaza: How to Survive a War Zone at a private screening almost three weeks before it was aired.

And now it has emerged that the CEO, who earns more than 400,000 per year, did not question the programme which has since come under fire after it emerged that the 14-year-old boy narrating it was the son of a senior Hamas official.

Despite the documentary now being removed from streaming service BBC iPlayer, it has raised concerns over whether licence-fee cash was put straight into the pockets of a terrorist organisation.

It will also bring into sharp focus Ms Turness's involvement in BBC Verify, which she launched in May 2023 with the goal of upholding 'rigorous editorial standards'.

A source close to the CEO has since defended Ms Turness, saying she had 'assumed due diligence checks had already taken place' before the documentary was finished.

They also said the documentary was not given any 'special treatment' and has assumed it was 'fully compliant with BBC guidelines'.

'This was a compiled programme by the time she [Ms Turness] saw it,' the source told The Telegraph.

It has been revealed that Deborah Turness, CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, watched the documentary at a private screening almost three weeks before it was aired

The programme's narrator Abdullah Al-Yazouri (pictured) is the son of Ayman Al-Yazouri, Deputy Agriculture Minister in the Hamas Government

Controversy forced the BBC to issue an apology and pull the programme from iPlayer last week

The source even went as far to say the blame should lie with Jo Carr, Head of Current Affairs at the BBC, as well as those responsible for commissioning the programme.

The BBC last week confirmed that the programme's narrator Abdullah Al-Yazouri is the son of Ayman Al-Yazouri, Deputy Agriculture Minister in the Hamas Government, and that his mother was given a 'limited sum of money for the narration'.

David Collier, an investigative journalist and undercover researcher into anti-Semitism said Ms Turness's excuse for the blunder didn't wash.

'If I can find out Abdullah's father is a Hamas official while sitting in a room in London then so can BBC fact-checkers,' he said.

'They did not find it because they never bothered to look.'

Ms Turness's attendance at the screening allegedly took place on January 30, with the programme airing on February 19.

BBC Director General Tim Davie and Chairman Dr Samir Shah are set to be questioned at a parliamentary select committee tomorrow on how the documentary was aired.

The row has continued to deepen after it emerged the corporation paid London-based Hoyo Films 400,000 to make the film.

The BBC has since issued a grovelling apology and acknowledged 'serious flaws in the making of the programme'.

According their statement, Hoyo Films failed to tell the BBC on multiple occasions about potential connections the narrator and his family might have with Hamas.

Whilst the BBC stressed the production company behind the show was independent, they accepted that 'the processes and execution of this programme fell short of our expectations'

The row over the BBC's documentary, Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone, spilled on to the streets of the capital as anti-Hamas protesters arrived outside Broadcasting House in Portland Place, London on Tuesday evening

Those in attendance chanted anti-terrorist messages after the documentary appeared to potentially give licence-fee cash to a terrorist organisation

They only acknowledged that they knew about the connection after transmission.

Whilst they stressed the production company was independent, the BBC said they accepted 'the processes and execution of this programme fell short of our expectations'.

Despite Hoyo Film's reassurances that none of the 400,000 budget used to make the programme was given to any members of Hamas, the BBC has since announced a full audit of the programme.

Tim Davie also ordered a full fact-finding review which will investigate any complaints and issues raised about the documentary.

Last week dozens of protesters gathered outside the BBC's office to voice their disapporval of the documentary.

Police officers and several police vans were present around the front entrance to the broadcaster's London HQ, which saw its central plaza cordoned off so protesters could not reach the main entrance.

Those in attendance chanted 'terrorist supporters off our screens' and 'Hamas are terrorists, say the words', as well as accusing the corporation of 'deliberate bias'.

When approached by MailOnline for comment, the BBC said their stance remains as it was on their statement published on February 27.
Children as young as 10 are repeatedly committing violent criminal acts, not just because they avoid adult justice but also to win social media notoriety, authorities say.

Youth crime has exploded across parts of Australia, with Melbourne, Cairns, Northern NSW and Alice Springs considered as hotspots.

Forensic psychologist Tim Watson-Munro said the epidemic is being brought about by overly lenient magistrates and judges who routinely release youths to commit more crimes, and copycat offending encouraged by social media.

He said police are laughed at by young offenders who know they will be released on bail within hours of arrest, so the granting of bail needs to be much more restricted.

Victoria's youth crime epidemic hit 23,810 incidents in 2023-2024 - the highest it has been since 2009 and a jump of almost 17 percent on the previous 12 months.

Many of the home invasions, aggravated burglaries, car thefts, assaults, brawls and knife attacks which happen daily occur in Melbourne.

Recent alleged incidents include:

- A teenage girl was charged after she allegedly stabbed a 14-year-old girl and a security guard at Pacific Epping shopping centre about 9.20pm last Friday.

Police are fighting a losing battle against youth crime as another alleged offender (pictured) is arrested

Five teens, including a 13-year-old boy, have been charged after a series of alleged burglaries and a carjacking in Melbourne's east on February 11

The teens allegedly stole cigarettes from a Melbourne service station

The 17-year-old was charged with intentionally causing serious injury, affray, assault with a weapon and unlawful assault. She was refused bail to face a children's court at a later date.

- A 13-year-old boy had been out on bail for only 12 days when he allegedly terrorised women at knifepoint during a suspected aggravated carjacking at Cranbourne early on February 25.

The teen faced a children's court the same day to apply for bail again.

- The day before, on February 24, four teens were charged after they allegedly stormed home in Melbourne's east and confronted the sleeping occupants.

The Kew couple woke about 4am to find balaclava-clad intruders in their bedroom.

The four boys, aged 15, 16, 16 and 17, were later charged with theft of motor vehicle, home invasion and theft and remanded into custody.

- And five teens including a 13-year-old boy were arrested and charged after an alleged carjacking and multiple burglaries in Melbourne's east on February 11.

Police spotted a Range Rover Discovery which had allegedly been stolen from Elwood three days earlier.

The teens allegedly stole cigarettes from a service station and then ditched the Range Rover about 11.15pm before carjacking a Ford Focus after using a knife to threaten the driver.

The boys were all charged with aggravated carjacking, aggravated burglary, theft and aggravated burglary.

Forensic psychologist Tim Watson-Munro (pictured) said social media is a 'powerful tool' for encouraging and enabling youth crime

Victoria Police has multiple active operations to tackle youth crime

Dr Watson-Munro said social media is a 'powerful tool' for encouraging and enabling youth crime.

'They see other people committing crimes on social media and they start aping that sort of mentality, they see gang activity, they want the bravado,' Dr Watson-Munro said.

'They video the crime then post on social media to get the kudos, they also use social media to congregate and commit crime, it's powerful tool to do that.'

Dr Watson-Munro called for tougher bail laws, which he says are currently 'just a joke'.

'Zooming down the Monash doing 150km/h and they're arrested, bailed and back before court the next day for the same offending,' he said.

'Police arrest them and the offenders laugh at them, they say 'we'll be back out tomorrow'; it's an arrogance, it's lack of respect.

'People are very worried about aggravated burglaries, parents worry about their own children out at all hours where they can get bashed and stabbed, these crimes even happen in broad daylight.

Victoria Police has multiple active operations to tackle youth crime including child gang members.

Federal Liberal MP Aaron Violi (pictured right) believes lax bail laws is a factor in Victoria's youth crime epidemic

'Police possess a significant level of intelligence on offenders, including who they associate with, the locations they frequent, and their offending habits,' a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

Federal Liberal MP Aaron Violi believes lax bail laws are the source of Victoria's youth crime epidemic.

'There's not enough consequence for action, lax bail laws need to be looked at,' Mr Violi said.

'I also believe Covid lockdowns played a part and I'm hearing participation at sporting clubs is down so it may be more young people aren't as engaged with the community as before.'

The federal member for Casey also believed young repeat offenders are using TikTok, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat for social media infamy.

'We believe social media is linked to youth crime which is why we have a policy that we want to introduce which makes it illegal for children to post their crimes on social media,' he said.

Australia-wide, there were 48,014 youth offenders in 2022-2023, an increase of six percent on the previous period.

Queensland is battling a youth crime scourge, including a recent spike in Cairns in the state's far north.

In November last year, Cairns Police unleashed a week-long operation to disrupt, prevent and investigate youth crime.

The crackdown resulted in 54 minors being charged with 220 offences.

Cairns Police unleashed a week-long operation to disrupt, prevent and investigate youth crime which resulted in 54 young people being charged with 220 offences

Police recently arrested a teen who allegedly raped a woman in her Cairns home. Pictured is the arrest

A teen suspect who allegedly committed a horror home invasion and gang rape at a Cairns home early on February 21 is arrested

However, the crackdown did little to curb three teens who allegedly committed a horror home invasion and gang rape at a Cairns home early on February 21.

It's alleged the boys broke into a Manunda home about 3.30am and used a knife to threaten a man and woman.

Police allege the teens sexually assaulted the woman while holding a knife to her husband's neck.

Specialist police arrested two teens nearby about an hour later.

The boys aged 15 and 16 were both charged with five counts of rape, two counts of armed robbery and deprivation of liberty and other offences.

Another boy, also 15, was later arrested later that afternoon.

He was charged with five counts of rape and two counts of deprivation of liberty, obstruct police officer and other offences.

The three boys are allegedly known to police.

Detective Inspector Kevin Goan said the alleged incident was 'one of the most abhorrent acts' he had seen in his 38 years as a detective

Detective Inspector Kevin Goan said the alleged incident was 'one of the most abhorrent acts' he had seen in his 38 years as a detective.

'The impacts of the offending will have a significant impact on two victims and our deepest sympathies go out to those two victims,' Insp Goan said.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli described the alleged incident as 'sickening and harrowing.'

Federal Liberal MP for Toowoomba Garth Hamilton also wants stricter bail laws and said his party had the policies to tackle youth crime nationwide.

'Social media should no longer be used by criminals bragging and attracting others to commit crimes,' Mr Hamilton said.

'Our city is a beautiful place to live, work, invest and raise a family. We are currently tarnished by this repeat offenders committing terrible behaviour.'

South of the border in far northern NSW, fed up residents held a youth crime rally in Moree on Saturday where they expressed anger about escalating violent youth crime.

The crime issue hit a boiling point when motorcyclist Daniel McNamara, 52, died last month after a stolen ute allegedly slammed into his motorbike on the Kamilaroi Highway, near Gunnedah.

Motorcyclist Daniel McNamara, 52, (pictured) died last month after a stolen ute allegedly driven by a teen slammed into his motorbike

NSW Police allege they had been chasing the ute which allegedly had three youth offenders but they stopped to help Mr McNamara.

Police alleged the ute had been stolen from a house in Moree.

The alleged driver was charged with aggravated dangerous driving occasioning death and other offences.

The other two teens were charged with five offences relating to the alleged theft of the ute and will face a children's court at a later date.

Mr McNamara's family slammed the 'failings of the justice system' during the Moree rally which aimed to highlight the 'dangerous escalation of violent incidents'.

A rally organiser told media Moree and other NSW northern towns had been 'copping it for 20, 30 years and they (politicians) don't do anything about it'.

'The situation is bad in Moree and is progressively getting worse, with thefts and home invasions,' they said.

'People are wondering, will they be the next one to have a home invasion? Will their car be stolen? Will they be bashed in their own home?'

The rally also aimed to support the Regional Youth Crime Reform Bill pushed by state Northern Tablelands MP Brendan Moylan in parliament last week.

The Bill proposes key changes to support stronger bail laws for serious repeat juvenile offenders and requires courts to place greater weight on the impact on the victim when sentencing an offender.

'The changes aim to tighten the Bail Act so we can take those repeat serious offenders off the streets,' Mr Moylan said at the rally.

'I'm sick to death of Moree being associated with crime. It's got to change.'

Following Mr McNamara's death in February, NSW Premier Chris Minns announced an additional $2million in funding to address crime.

Youth crime in Alice Springs (pictured) is so bad that authorities there implemented multiple curfews in the last 18 months

In a sickening alleged incident, a teenager allegedly broke into Nicole Siguenza's Alice Springs home and assaulted her and her baby daughter Antonia (pictured) on December 11

'These are very challenging times for Moree, we have not made the inroads we had hoped to have made when it comes to persistent reoffending,' Mr Minns said in a statement.

'We are making a decision to put in unprecedented resources both for police, bail accommodation and support services.'

Mr Minns also announced an extension to bail laws that made it harder for repeat offenders to be released from custody while going through court.

'It's clear that the police have been able to identify, arrest and put before the courts individuals, often young, people who are accused of very serious crimes,' Mr Minns said in a statement last month.

Youth crime in Alice Springs is so bad that authorities have implemented multiple night curfews in the last 18 months.

The wave of violent crime including assaults, robberies and home invasions and has trashed businesses and left residents fearing for their safety

In a sickening alleged incident, a teenager allegedly broke into Nicole Siguenza's Alice Spring's home and assaulted her and her baby on December 11.

He allegedly struck the mother-of-five with a detachable metal freezer handle so hard that it rebounded and hit her two-month-old daughter Antonia.

The baby suffered a brain bleed and fractured skull and was airlifted to Adelaide's Women and Children's Hospital for emergency treatment.

It was later revealed the teen fled custody while on a taxpayer-funded trip to Darwin to attend a funeral on traditional lands last month.

Specialist police re-arrested the teen after he spent a night on the run following the 'on country' funeral.

The teen had been granted bail to attend the funeral by a Supreme Court judge. despite being charged with over 250 offences prior to the alleged attack.

He had also been bailed 25 times previously.

'This has to be the line in the sand moment,' Dr Watson-Munro said.

'The parents need to take responsibility, there has to be a stronger response, police need more respect and credit, (they are) working with one arm tied behind their back, we need to come together as a community to solve this problem.'
The heartbroken wife-to-be of an e-scooter rider killed in a fatal crash has remembered her fiancee as a 'woman of many talents' and said she is 'lost' without her.

Jessie Van Der Draay, 32, was riding the electric scooter in Lithgow, west of the NSW Blue Mountains, when she was hit by an Isuzu ute on Friday evening.

NSW Police said the 44-year-old driver of the Isuzu was travelling east on the Great Western Highway when he struck Ms Van Der Draay at the Lee Street junction.

A bystander rushed to her aid and performed CPR before paramedics arrived but they were unable to save Ms Van Der Draay and she died at the scene.

A year to the day earlier, her fiancee Kayla Bunting had spoke lovingly of Ms Van Der Draay in a Facebook post on February 28, 2024.

'You're my Lover, my Fiancee, my Best Friend, my Soul Mate and my Partner in Crime,' she posted.

'I couldn't ask for anyone else to spend the rest of my life with.'

Now devastated Ms Bunting has revealed her grief in a harrowing post on social media, posting on Facebook: 'F***, I'm lost. Absolutely nothing without you.'

Heartbroken wife-to-be Kayla Bunting of Jessie Van Der Draay killed in a fatal e-scooter crash (pictured together) has said she is 'lost' without her fiancee

A 44-year-old driver was taken to Lithgow Hospital for mandatory testing after the crash

A year to the day earlier, her fiancee Kayla Bunting had spoke lovingly of Ms Van Der Draay in a Facebook post on February 28, 2024

She has now launched a GoFundMe appeal to help with the unexpected funeral costs and revealed how Ms Van Der Draay shared the parenting of Ms Bunting's two children.

'Jessie was and is loved and respected by many people,' Ms Bunting wrote on the fundraiser page.

'She was not only a sister and a close mate but took on the big [role] of being a step mum to two girls.'

Ms Van Der Draay was described as a generous and handy homemaker.

'No matter what she always was there to help anyone who asked, she was always doing something around the house (or multiple things at once),' she added.

'There was rarely a time you'd see Jessie without tools in her hands or building something new that she's thought of.

'She was a woman of many talents.'

The Isuzu driver was taken to Lithgow Hospital for mandatory testing following the collision.

Kayla Bunting has revealed her grief in a harrowing post on social media, posting on Facebook: 'F***, I'm lost. Absolutely nothing without you.'

Jessie Van Der Draay (pictured) was 32 years old when she died in an e-scooter crash

Her fiance has started a GoFundMe page to assist in paying for the funeral

NSW Police said inquiries were still continuing into the circumstances leading up to the death.

'We are awaiting the result of blood tests as well as reviewing statements from witnesses, and prepping a report for the information of the Coroner,' a spokesman told Daily Mail Australia.

'We are still keen to hear from anyone with information, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 00.'

Ms Van Der Draay's tragic death is the latest in a series of recent e-scooter and e-bike fatalities across the country.

Last month, father-to-be Stuart Jackson succumbed to head injuries after crashing his e-scooter in Highland Park on the Gold Coast.

Queensland emergency departments recorded 1,273 e-scooter injuries in 2023.

The research, compiled by Jamieson Trauma Institute, found hospitalisations arising from e-scooter incidents had doubled across the state in the two years leading.

Figures are believed to be even higher than reported due to differences in hospital reporting processes.

Soon-to-be-dad Stuart Jackson (pictured) died in an e-scooter crash last month on the Gold Coast

Melbourne banned shared e-scooters last year following an unsuccessful trial program

Queensland University of Technology Professor Narelle Haworth said private and public (or shared) e-scooters pose their own different risks.

'The safety issues for private and shared e-scooters differ,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'For private e-scooters, speeding on e-scooters that have been bought online or have been modified to travel faster is a big issue.

'But private riders generally wear helmets and cover most of their skin.'

Public scooters, while not modified for higher speeds, tend to attract less experienced riders.

'For shared e-scooters, inexperience and non-wearing of helmets seem to be the biggest issue,' Professor Haworth said.

The global e-scooter market was valued at more than $49billion AUD in 2023 and is understood to be growing at ten per cent year-on-year.

While cities across the world, including Paris, Madrid and Rome, have imposed heavy restrictions and bans on public e-scooters, they remain a favoured mode of transport across Australia.

A City of Melbourne trial ended in an all-out ban last August after Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece declared the public scooters posed an 'unacceptable public safety risk' to pedestrians.

The global e-scooter market is surging while regulators scramble to safeguard their use

Private e-scooters are still legal in the municipality, but the future of public e-scooters remains in doubt.

'Ending the e-scooter trial was the right thing for the City of Melbourne,' Mr Reece told Daily Mail Australia.

'Too many people were getting injured - so we acted to prioritise people's safety.

'Riders were doing the wrong thing and e-scooters littered across footpaths were creating a safety hazard.'

Professor Haworth also said the design of e-scooters puts riders at higher risk of severe injury.

'Firstly, they have small wheels and their design leads to the tendency for the rider to be catapulted over the handlebars, landing on their face or head, if they strike a bump (e.g., tree root) or pothole on the footpath or the road.

'Secondly, because e-scooters are such a new form of transport, most riders are inexperienced in knowing how to use them and many users are trying them for fun, which is associated with risky behaviours.'

A significant point of departure in approaches to e-scooter regulation across Australian cities relates to their use on footpaths.

Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece said e-scooters posed an 'unacceptable' risk

It is illegal to use an e-scooter on a footpath in NSW and Victoria, for example, while doing so under a speed limit is permissible in other states.

Professor Haworth said the disagreements arise from a 'clash of priorities'.

'E-scooters ridden on the footpath can pose a danger and can cause fear to pedestrians, particularly those who are elderly or live with disabilities,' he said.

'However, the e-scooter riders themselves are less likely to be hit by cars if they ride on the footpath.'

He stressed helmets are vital to minimise fatalities.

'They do reduce the risk of head and face injuries, but only if worn,' Professor Haworth said.

'Helmets left attached to the e-scooter instead of being worn have no protective effect.'
Donald Trump has signaled both publicly and privately that he no longer considers Russia a major cyber threat to US national security and critical infrastructure.

The shift, which starkly contradicts years of warnings from intelligence officials, has raised alarm among cybersecurity experts who fear that the United States is leaving itself exposed to Russian cyberattacks just as global tensions reach boiling point.

On Sunday night, it was reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered US Cyber Command to cease all offensive cyberoperations against Russia.

Critics warn the policy reversal appears to be driven by the administration's warming relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, as Trump moves to realign U.S. foreign policy in a way that increasingly mirrors Moscow's interests.

'Russia and China are our biggest adversaries. With all the cuts being made to different agencies, a lot of cybersecurity personnel have been fired. Our systems are not going to be protected and our adversaries know this,' a person familiar with the shift told The Guardian.

'People are saying Russia is winning. Putin is on the inside now,' they added.

According to a current official and two former officials briefed on the classified directive, the abrupt halt is reportedly part of a broader strategic effort to lure Putin into negotiations over Ukraine and reset relations with the US.

The decision marks a significant shift in the US cyber posture against an adversary known for its aggressive digital warfare, election interference, and relentless hacking campaigns.

Donald Trump has shown an increased willingness to work with the Russian President Putin

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered US Cyber Command to cease all offensive cyberoperations against Russia

President Donald Trump ended up shouting at Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in an extraordinary Oval Office meltdown on Friday

While some insiders argue the move is a necessary step in diplomacy, critics warn that it represents a dangerous retreat that could embolden Moscow to escalate its cyberattacks on the US and its allies.

'It's incomprehensible to give a speech about threats in cyberspace and not mention Russia and it's delusional to think this will turn Russia and the FSB [the Russian security agency] into our friends,' James Lewis, a veteran cyber expert, told The Guardian.

'They hate the US and are still mad about losing the cold war. Pretending otherwise won't change this.'

Hegseth's directive, which is part of a broader reassessment of all U.S. military operations against Russia, has yet to be publicly explained.

However, the timing of the order which was given before President Trump's Oval Office blowup with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky are apparently part of an effort to draw Russia into talks on the war.

The precise scope and duration of the directive by the Pentagon directive remains murky, particularly given the blurred lines between offensive and defensive cyberoperations.

Traditionally, offensive cyber warfare involves actively disrupting enemy networks, planting malicious software, or launching cyber strikes on critical infrastructure.

Defensive cyberoperations, on the other hand, aim to thwart incoming cyber threats, though often they require maintaining covert access to enemy networks for intelligence gathering.

For the US, retaining access to Russia's digital infrastructure is crucial for monitoring Putin's war strategy and internal political calculations as he enters negotiations.

Without such cyber tools, the US could be left flying blind in diplomatic talks where deception and manipulation are second nature to the Kremlin.

By unilaterally pulling back from the 'shadow war' in cyberspace, the administration is effectively betting that Putin will respond in kind - dialing down Russia's relentless cyber intrusions into U.S. networks. Trump is seen meeting Putin in 2018

President Donald Trump with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, left and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, right, are seen praying during a cabinet meeting

Former officials acknowledge that it is common for civilian leaders to pause military operations during sensitive diplomatic negotiations to avoid derailing delicate discussions.

However, for President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth, the decision to halt cyber operations against Russia is something of a gamble.

By unilaterally pulling back from the 'shadow war' in cyberspace, the administration is effectively betting that Putin will respond in kind - dialing down Russia's relentless cyber intrusions into U.S. networks, election interference, and digital sabotage across Europe.

Russia has consistently leveraged cyber warfare as a tool of statecraft, targeting American institutions, hospitals, infrastructure, and corporations with sophisticated ransomware and espionage operations.

Intelligence officials have repeatedly warned that such attacks are not merely criminal acts but are sanctioned, or at the very least tolerated, by Russian intelligence agencies.

In a United Nations cybersecurity working group last week, Liesyl Franz, deputy assistant secretary for international cybersecurity at the State Department, outlined US concerns about cyber threats - but conspicuously failed to mention Russia.

Instead, her speech only singled out China and Iran, omitting any reference to Moscows history of cyber warfare, including its well-documented attacks on US infrastructure and ongoing cyber operations in Ukraine.

Even more striking, Franz did not mention LockBit, the Russia-based ransomware group the US government has previously identified as the worlds most prolific.

On Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the urgency of bringing Russia to the negotiating table but dismissed concerns the administration is being too lenient on Putin.

Protestors hold up a sign as members of the New York Ukrainian community and supporters gather in Times Square over the weekend

The Treasury Department had previously warned that LockBit operates under a ransomware-as-a-service model, licensing its technology to criminals in exchange for a share of the profits.

Yet now, as the U.S. faces an unprecedented rise in ransomware attacks, the administration is choosing to look the other way.

Until now, U.S Cyber Command has played a leading role in countering Russia's cyber aggression, often working in covert cooperation with Britain's Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ).

While Britain and Canada may continue cyber operations against Russian targets, the Pentagon's shift in focus could leave European allies exposed to unchecked Russian cyberattacks.

The decision to halt cyber operations comes amid broader concerns that the Trump administration is softening its stance toward Moscow.

In a striking diplomatic break, last week the US voted against a United Nations resolution that described Russia as the aggressor in Ukraine, instead siding with Russia, North Korea, Iran, and Belarus.

This move alarmed US allies, who fear that Washington is inching toward appeasement at a time when Moscow remains committed to its military ambitions in Ukraine.

Even within the administration, tensions over the shift in strategy are evident.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the urgency of bringing Russia to the negotiating table but dismissed concerns that the administration is being too lenient on Putin.

'You're not going to bring them to the table if you're calling them names, if you're being antagonistic,' Rubio said on ABC's This Week.

A participant in a demonstration against Vladimir Putin in Berlin holds up sign with Putin holding Trump on a leash

A woman carries a banner reading 'Trump is Putin's puppet' during 'We Stand With Zelenskyy And Europe' demonstration in front of In Solidarity With Ukraine And Zelenskyy In Krakow on Saturday

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer blasted the administration's decision, arguing that the Pentagon's retreat from offensive cyber operations effectively hands Putin a free pass

'That's just the president's instincts from years and years and years of putting together deals as someone who's in business.'

Rubio was not directly questioned about the decision to halt cyber operations, but when pressed about why the US was easing pressure on Moscow, he bristled, insisting that the administration's goal is peace.

'If this was a Democrat that was doing this, everyone would be saying, well, he's on his way to the Nobel Peace Prize,' Rubio scoffed. 'This is absurd. We are trying to end a war.'

Not everyone is convinced that de-escalating cyber warfare is the right move.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer blasted the administration's decision, arguing that the Pentagon's retreat from offensive cyber operations effectively hands Putin a free pass.

'Russia continues to launch cyberoperations and ransomware attacks against critical American infrastructure, and the Trump administration is rewarding them by backing off,' Schumer warned. 'This is a critical strategic mistake.'

The concerns are shared by national security veterans who have spent years monitoring Russia's cyber playbook.

Under the Biden administration, US intelligence agencies had warned that Russia's ultimate goal was to undermine US security, disrupt American infrastructure, and spread political chaos.

Those warnings led to the creation of specialized cyber task forces within the National Security Agency and Cyber Command, designed to counter Russian cyberattacks in real-time.

But under Hegseth's new directive, the efforts seems likely to be scaled back leaving America more vulnerable.
Few sentences bring joy like 'Bilal Skaf attacked behind bars'.

And so it is with tremendous pleasure I report the hated Sydney gang rapist had his neck slashed during a jail yard fight at one of New South Wales' most feared prisons last week.

Skaf, 42, was cut during a daytime confrontation in a yard at Goulburn Correctional Centre when warring inmates came up with a grim yet ingenious way of causing serious harm from afar.

The rapist was struck in the neck by an apple embedded with a razor blade or other sharp piece of metal during a long-distance fight between prisoners.

Although it was a minor cut, it did cause Skaf to bleed and he was taken to the prison's nurse for the wound to be treated.

It is understood the maximum-security inmates were then locked in their cells and threatened that privileges such as access to pizza and doughnuts, which are rewarded for good behaviour, could be withdrawn following the incident.

Corrective Services NSW confirmed that 'at about midday on Tuesday, 25 February 2025 a 43-year-old was in a yard in Goulburn Correctional Centre when he was hit by objects from inmates in the adjoining yard, and sustained an injury to his neck.

'He was provided with medical treatment on-site as a result. A 25-year-old inmate was placed into segregation for the good order and security of the centre.'

It is not the first time Skaf has been attacked behind bars, having been the target of other inmates due to his terrible crimes, including a 2015 attack when he was set upon by two other inmates who caved in one of his eye sockets.

Bilal Skaf (above with his mother Baria in the Supermax visiting room) had his neck slashed in Goulburn jail last week when a group of inmates got into a fight, throwing apples at each other embedded with razor blades or other sharp pieces of metal

In the year 2000, Skaf was the ringleader of 14 teenage men, including his younger brother Mohammed, who participated in a degrading series of rapes intended to traumatise and humiliate young Australian girls.

He summoned carloads of men to rape girls as young as 16 'Leb-style' - his diabolical enterprise inspired by a trip to his parents' homeland of Lebanon from which he returned with warped ideas about the freedoms enjoyed by Australian women.

The victims were viciously sexually assaulted by multiple men, robbed of jewellery, watches, mobile phones and money, called 's**ts' and threatened with retribution if the rapists caught sexually transmitted diseases or HIV.

Daily Mail Australia has learned that Skaf is also daubing the walls of Goulburn prison with paintings, which has caused some disquiet at the historic facility.

Some prison art is tolerated, even admired, such as the walls painted at Long Bay Correctional Centre by bank robber Tim Guider, the brother of the paedophile who killed Samantha Knight, Michael Guider.

Tim Guider's 14m-long murals were entered into the Sulman Prize competition at the Art Gallery of NSW.

However, Bilal Skaf, who fancies himself as something of an artist, is best known for the vile drawings he did after his fiancee dumped him following her realisation that his claims his victims were willing or complicit were false.

By early 2003, the 20-year-old woman had decided her engagement to Skaf was over and in March she told him she didn't want to see him again.

Bilal Skaf is said to be daubing the walls of Goulburn prison with paintings, causing some disquiet among staff at the historic jail

In 2003, after Bilal Skaf's fiancee (pictured visiting him in jail, left) ended their relationship, he drew a series of vile cartoons depicting a woman, said to represent her, being gang raped and shot dead (right)

Soon afterwards, the drawings, which included caricatures of violence and gang rape, with his former fiancee believed to be the depicted victim, were discovered in Skaf's prison cell.

In one of the monstrous cartoons, Skaf drew a woman being raped while one of the men watching says: Hurry up man, there's 50 others waiting.'

In another, an armed soldier was seen firing bullets into a woman at point-blank range, with blood dripping from her wounds and the soldier standing over her saying, 'Ya sl*t.'

Bilal Skaf, who has at the very minimum another eight years to serve, has had a drama-filled prison life over the last two decades.

Bilal began his sentence in Sydney's Long Bay Correctional Centre where, guards, said, he thought he would be given a hero's welcome by Lebanese inmates such as the gangland murderer Michael Kanaan.

Instead, he was targeted for bringing disgrace to the Lebanese-Australian community.

Bilal Skaf has been incarcerated at Goulburn Correctional Centre for decades and has at least another eight years to go until his earliest possible release

The rape gang ringleader (above with officers after his 2006 sentencing) has been both assaulted behind bars and committed misdemeanours for which he has been punished

When officers uncovered plans by fellow inmates to inject him with HIV-infected blood, he was moved to Goulburn's Multi Purpose Unit (MPU), known as 'the Bronx' or 'baby Supermax' for housing risky or at-risk prisoners.

But at the MPU, Skaf was later discovered to have a stack of hardcore pornography in his cell and he was moved to the real Supermax.

It was there, in late 2002, that his mother Baria was captured on security cameras concealing 'love letters' from Bilal to his fiancee in her socks. The letters caused a security alert.

Skaf led 14 teenage men, including his younger brother Mohammed, on a degrading series of rapes intended to traumatise and humiliate young Australian girls

What alarmed Corrective Services was that Skaf had drawn two detailed maps in one letter, showing his cell and surrounding locations.

Then Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Ron Woodham feared it could be an escape plan. Baria was banned for visiting her then 21-year-old son for two years.

In 2003, Bilal was charged with writing a threatening letter to Woodham.

The letter, containing white powder amid scares about the bioterrorism agent anthrax, said: 'Don't take this as a threat but if all Muslims aren't released by January 2003 Australia and citizens will be in danger of bombing.'

Locked up in 'baby Supermax', Skaf was discovered to have a stack of hardcore pornography in his cell and he was moved to the real Supermax (above)

While at Supermax, Bilal Skaf was also caught hiding a crowbar in a towel, a weapon he planned to use only for personal protection, he told guards.

Bilal's brother Mohammed walked free from jail in 2021, after the state Parole Authority denied his release twice in 2020, and Judge Michael Finnane called him 'a vicious, cowardly bully, arrogant and a liar, as well as being a rapist'.

Bilal, whose original 55-year maximum sentence was reduced on appeal in 2006 to a 32-year minimum, has an earliest release date of February 2033.

But his lack of remorse, if he continues to blame his victims, would mean that, like his brother, he could expect to serve much longer.
A Native American teen who disappeared one month ago in Arizona was found dismembered on the side of a highway.

Emily Pike, 14, a member of the San Carlos Apache tribe, disappeared on January 27, sparking a multi-agency search.

Grim news then came on Valentine's Day when remains of an unidentified female were found by police in a wooded area.

After testing of the remains, police confirmed that they belonged to Emily on the one-month anniversary of the girl's disappearance.

Her body was dismembered and stuffed into trash bags, with her torso and head in one bag and her legs in another. Authorities have yet to find her arms.

Emily was living in a group home before she disappeared. Anika Robinson, a foster care advocate who knew the teen gave a devastating theory to local news outlet, AZ Family.

'I can only imagine the fact that her hands and arms haven't been found is because she was beating up and hurting her attacker,' Robinson said nearly in tears.

'I think all of us were shocked that that was her demise. I know that her staff and the girls in her home are suffering greatly because of it,' she added.

Emily Pike, 14, was found dismembered after authorities searched for her for a month

Emily was remembered as a kind young girl who loved painting by her heartbroken mother

Emily was living in a group home in Mesa, but her family lives on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation.

Robinson said Emily had a history of running away, telling AZ Family, 'I think for any child who has been placed outside of their home and wishes to return home, we see this so often where they are fleeing. They are leaving. They want some sense of independence.'

Her mother, Stephanie Dosela, said that she was notified of her daughter's disappearance by her case manager a week after she went missing.

Dosela described her daughter as a 'very happy and kind person' who loved painting and aspired to study art in college.

Hundreds of questions remain over what happened to Emily in the month she was missing.

'Why did it go that far? She was just an innocent she was a baby. [It's] pain that I hope no other mother would go through,' Dosela said in a phone interview with AZ Family.

'You'll never be forgotten. I love you. Until we meet again, rest in peace,' she said in a phone interview with the local outlet.

Emily's family has set up a GoFundMe to raise money for the teen's funeral. 'Emily left her family so tragically.. only Lord knows the hardships coming their way,' the description read.

The Mesa, Arizona community is advocating for justice in Emily's gruesome death

Anika Robinson, a foster care advocate who worked with Emily's group home spoke about the devastation that the young teen's death has caused

A missing persons alert for Emily went out last month

Foster care advocates will honor Emily on Sunday morning by placing yellow ribbons where she was last seen alive.

Dosela said that authorities came to her home for a DNA test to help identify her daughter.

Her mother added that police said they have three suspects, but didn't reveal their identities.

Emily's death was ruled a homicide and the case is being investigated by the Gila County Sheriff's Office with help from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the San Carlos Apache Tribal Police.

Authorities haven't named suspects in the case and are encouraging the public to come forward with information that may lead to finding Emily's killer.

Emily's foster care advocate pled with potential witnesses to help police. 'Somebody had to have seen something, right?'

'Someone had to have seen her face, had to have seen her yelling, had to have observed something or taken part in this or they know someone who did.' Robinson told AZ Family.

Emily's tragic and gruesome death further illustrates the horrors facing Indigenous women.

Emily's remains were found dismembered in a trash bag on the side of a local highway

A sign that read 'Justice for Emily' was put up in Arizona after news of the teen's death broke

Emily lived in a group home in Mesa, but her family lived on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation

Indigenous women and girls are murdered 10 times more than other ethnicities, with murder being the third leading cause of their deaths, according to the Native Women's Wilderness organization.

The organization also cited statistics from the National Institute of Justice Report that said more than four out of five Indigenous women have experienced violence and half have specifically experienced sexual violence.

The rates of violence against Native American women are the highest among any socioeconomic group.

The statistics become even more staggering when taking into account that Native American women only make up 2.2 percent of the population of women in the US and 1.1 percent of the total population.

Dailymail.com reached out to the Gila County Sheriff's Office, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the San Carlos Apache Tribal Police for comment on Emily's case but didn't immediately hear back.
Illinois newlyweds were left in shock upon learning that one of their very own wedding guests was behind the horrific explosion that destroyed their home as they were saying 'I do.'

Anthony Avila-Puebla, 31, of Cicero, was identified as both the body found in the debris and the man responsible for the explosion that occurred in the 2200-block of Central Avenue last month, police have revealed on Saturday, ABC 7 reported.

The shocking revelation came after surveillance video captured the suspect carrying several jugs of flammable liquid into the home, just moments before the explosion that displaced 11 families took place.

On February 15, Eleni Vrettos, 32, was still in her wedding dress as she watched smoke pour from her childhood home.

'I ran here in my wedding dress, like down the alley, and was watching from a neighbor's yard,' she told WSAV. 'Everything was just smoke at that point.'

The abrupt explosion was captured on surveillance cameras from nearby homes and businesses, which showed bricks and debris hurtling across the road, hitting cars and nearby buildings before the home became engulfed in flames and thick smoke.

In utter disbelief, Vrettos said that her 'mind went numb' as she tried to process the heartbreak.

'Rather than taking our family photos and joining our wedding guests at the reception, my husband and I drove to the home that once stood to witness it in shambles,' she said.

Anthony Avila-Puebla, 31, of Cicero, Illinois, was identified as both the body found in the debris and the man responsible for the explosion that destroyed a newlywed couple's home as they were saying 'I do' last month

Eleni Vrettos, 32, was still in her wedding dress on February 15 as she watched smoke pour from her childhood home, just minutes after she had married the 'love of her life'

The abrupt explosion was captured on surveillance cameras from nearby homes and businesses, which showed bricks and debris hurtling across the road, hitting cars and nearby buildings before the home became engulfed in flames and thick smoke

'From a neighbor's yard, I witnessed the smoke and smog and filled my lungs with the charcoal smell.'

The heartache only intensified once Vrettos thought about her beloved pet cats inside the home that she described as being 'literally her world.'

'There was no way my babies made it out in that instant explosion and engulfed in flames,' she said. 'While my first instinct was to run to the rubble to search for my angels, we obviously were told we couldn't be there and there was nothing to be done.'

A body was also found in the rubble, which the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office later identified to be Avila-Puebla, ABC reported.

Avila-Puebla was a guest at the ceremony, but ultimately went missing in the midst of the celebration, investigators discovered.

The suspect, who was determined to have a relationship with a family member inside the home, was captured on surveillance video parking his car a half-block away while everyone else was at the ceremony.

Authorities found that Avila-Puebla had removed a five-gallon jug of some sort of flammable liquid from his car before entering the building.

He was later seen leaving the residence with an empty jug in hand, only to return to his vehicle at least two more times - each time retrieving several more jugs and bringing them inside, Fox 32 News reported.

Avila-Puebla, a guest at the ceremony, went missing in the midst of the celebration and was captured on surveillance footage carrying several jugs of flammable liquid into the home just moments before the explosion

The suspect, who was determined to have a relationship with a family member who lived inside the couple's (pictured) home, was captured on surveillance video parking his car a half-block away while everyone else was at the ceremony shortly before the explosion

Vrettos and her brother recently took ownership of the home after it had been in their mother's name for nearly 40 years, but it was uninsured at the time of the fire due to ongoing transfer paperwork

The explosion occurred moments later. Avila-Puebla was never seen leaving the home once it became plagued with roaring flames.

The blaze damaged a neighboring building in the area as well as a third building, which sustained minor damage during the fire.

Several units in the building were affected, displacing 11 families in total. The Town of Cicero and aid agencies, including the Red Cross, has provided each family with temporary housing, according to Fox News.

Vrettos and her brother recently took ownership of the home after it had been in their mother's name for nearly 40 years, WGN9 reported.

The pair had plans to assist in updating the residence with renovations to 'take the burden off,' including fixing some 'long overdue' repairs. They had already paid for a new roof and new interior support beams.

However, the process of transferring home insurance was still ongoing, leaving the home uninsured at the time of the explosion.

'I truly have no idea what we are going to do when it comes to the near future because there is so much at play with the "unknown,"' Vrettos said.

'Recently, my brother and I had transferred the home ownership from our mom to us, and we had not yet secured home insurance  call it irresponsible if you will and shame us for that mistake, but we cant undo our error.'

A GoFundMe for the family was started to help them rebuild and cover the costs of the damage.

'This home was more than just a house - it was where Eleni grew up, where she and Tom had moved in to start their new life together, and where the family had built countless memories over the years,' the fundraiser said.

'Now they have lost everything - their belongings, their keepsakes, and the place they called home.'

The fundraiser has raised over $50,000 to help the family restart their lives.

Several units in the building were affected, displacing 11 families in total. The Town of Cicero and aid agencies, including the Red Cross, has provided each family with temporary housing

The heartache only intensified once Vrettos thought about her six beloved pet cats she described as being 'literally her world,' who all were killed in the home during the explosion

Avila-Puebla's motivation behind the explosion remains unknown as the investigation is still ongoing

'The Vrettos family has always been kind, generous, and full of love - now they need our support more than ever. We pray that this fundraiser provides them some solace through the pain as they navigate this heartbreaking loss.'

The home also holds memories of her father, who died in 2022.

'I am scared. I am worried. I am lost. My stomach is in knots,' Vrettos said. 'All I have left are the memories. Goodbye to the only home Ive ever known, and rest in peace to the loves of my life.'

Although Vrettos' wedding day was filled with unimaginable heartbreak, the newlywed bride acknowledged that the ceremony saved her family from being caught in the devastating explosion.

'What we realized was that had Tom and I not been married just a few hours ago, we and my family members would've been dead because we would've been home as normal on a weekend,' she wrote on Facebook.

'The wedding ceremony saved our lives.'

Avila-Puebla's motivation behind the explosion remains unknown as the investigation is still ongoing.
Younger Ukrainian Army generals are inflicting 'unsustainable losses' on Russia, military bloggers claim.

Ukrainian troops are now keeping the Russian forces at 'marginal gains', Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports.

Behind these Ukrainian battlefield successes are a 'new generation' of young generals who have fought against Russia since it first invaded Crimea in 2014.

One of them is 42-year-old General Myhailo Drapatyi, Ukraine's ground forces chief, who was also recently put in charge of fighters in the eastern Donbas region.

His strategies are 'always unexpected and unconventional, but meticulously calculated', Olena Mokrenchuk, the Ukrainian armed forces' press officer, told Ukrainian broadcaster Espreso TV.

'He's very effective. I believe that under his command, we'll be able to push the Russians back,' Mokrenchuk said.

Among Gen Drapatyi's 'unconventional' plans was a transformation plan for an 'army of the future', which he announced in December 2024. This was aimed at improving Ukraine's battlefield position by reforming training and giving soldiers a technological edge over their Russian enemy.

Ukrainian troops are now advancing near the major eastern cities Pokrovsk, a rail and mining hub, and Toretsk, after Russian forces threatened these key logistical centres for Ukrainian military, according to the Telegraph.

Behind these Ukrainian battlefield successes are a 'new generation' of young generals who have fought against Russia since it first invaded Crimea in 2014. One of them is 42-year-old General Myhailo Drapatyi (pictured), Ukraine's ground forces chief, who was also recently put in charge of fighters in the eastern Donbas region

Ukrainian national guard soldiers stand in a trench under camouflage netting amid snowy conditions as they fire the Soviet D-20 artillery in the direction of Pokrovsk, Ukraine

A handout photo made available by Ukraine's 93rd Mechanized Brigade press service shows destroyed buildings in the frontline city of Toretsk, Donetsk region, eastern Ukraine

'The Ukrainian armed forces are actively advancing in Toretsk, reclaiming key positions,' a war blogger tracking the front lines wrote. 'There are reports of complete encirclement of Russian occupiers in several areas.'

Pokrovsk has been a target for Russia in the past 12 months and saw Putin's forces advance 25 miles west since February 2024, but Ukraine has successfully fought back and regained the settlement of Kotlyne, near Pokrovsk, last week.

'The year-long Russian effort to seize Pokrovsk has so far failed,' according to the ISW.

Ukraine is reportedly fighting back in Pokrovsk and Toretsk with US-donated armoured vehicles.

Russian military bloggers also wrote that Putin's troops had lost ground in Uspenivka in Donetsk Oblast, another region long-targeted by Russia during the war.

According to DeepState, a Ukrainian blog tracking the war, Russian troops were occupying about 192 square kilometres of Ukrainian ground in February, which is less than they did in previous months.

'Despite losing momentum, with the pace of advance now comparable to last July, the enemy continues to suffer heavy manpower losses. The enemy's activity has decreased, although it has not ceased entirely,' DeepState wrote.

This comes as Moscow said on Saturday that it had seized two more villages in eastern Ukraine, while Kyiv officials said Russian strikes had killed one person and wounded 19.

Members of the Joint Assault Brigade 'Lyut' of the Ukrainian National Police await orders at their artillery position on the Toretsk front line, Donbas, Ukraine

Ukrainian mortarmen of Separate Presidential Brigade 'Hetman Bohdan Khmelnytskyi' fire with mortar on Russian position on February 14, 2025 in Toretsk, Ukraine

The Russian defence ministry said its forces had captured Sudne and Burlatske in the south of the eastern Donetsk region.

They lie near the town of Velyka Novosilka, which was seized by the Russian army at the end of January.

DeepState also confirmed these territorial gains, adding that Russia had also advanced near Andriivka, Pryvilne, Sverdlikove and Mykolaivo-Daryne in the last week.

The Ukrainian air force said Russia had launched 154 drones overnight, of which 103 were downed and 51 disappeared from the radar without causing damage or casualties.

Ukrainian regional authorities, however, reported one death and several injuries.

In the southern Odesa region, one person died and three were wounded, according to Ukrainian prosecutors.

Twelve people were wounded in the northeastern Kharkiv region and two others in the southern Kherson region, local authorities said. Two others were wounded in Pokrovsk.

In the Russian-controlled part of Kherson, Ukrainian bombardment killed three people, the Moscow-installed governor said.
A prison reportedly swamped with drugs has been banned from installing CCTV because it is a listed building.

HMP Maidstone in Kent, which investigators say is rife with drugs, cannot have cameras installed on its perimeter wall as it is Grade II listed.

The prison wall and the two-centuries-old entrance has been on Historic England's National Heritage List since 1973.

The 600-capacity men's prison once held Reggie Kray and Soviet spy John Vassall.

A justice system insider told The Sun that prison bosses hoped to install cameras away from the listed walls.

An Independent Monitoring Board last year said it was 'regrettable' that full CCTV coverage was not in place 'due to restrictions related to the historic nature of the prison walls'.

The watchdog said throw-overs, where outsiders simply throw parcels over the walls to prisoners, are the main route of entry for illegal items and local police do not resource operations to deter them.

It added that reports of cannabis smells had 'increased markedly' and may have become 'accepted' and 'normalised' and that the main challenges at the prison include the use of cannabis, with occasional use of spice and cocaine.

HMP Maidstone in Kent cannot have CCTV cameras installed on its perimeter wall because it is Grade II listed

An Independent Monitoring Board last year said it was 'regrettable' that full CCTV coverage was not in place 'due to restrictions related to the historic nature of the prison walls'

The 600 capacity men's prison once held Reggie Kray and Soviet spy John Vassall

The Prison Service said: 'As part of our commitment to bear down on drugs in prison, HMP Maidstone is due to have a new CCTV system installed which will cover all internal and external areas.

'This is on top of the prison's existing security measures  such as X-ray scanners, which also detect illicit items.'

In April, a couple were jailed for a combined seven years after they were caught flying a drone over HMP Maidstone as part of a drug smuggling operation.

Sajad Hashimi and his wife Zerka Marana made more than 100 drone drops into 11 jails and young offenders' institutions in just over a year.

Throw-overs have been an ongoing problem at the Category C prison and in 2019, 15 parcels of smuggled items, including drugs, were found thrown over the wall in just one night.

In September, Sasan Rabat was convicted of murder after an attacking an inmate at the Kent prison with such ferocity police said it was 'almost indescribable'.
Homicide detectives have issued a chilling message to the cold-blooded killers behind one of the country's most notorious gangland slayings: we will never stop hunting for you.

The warning comes as police issued a massive million-dollar reward for any information that will help them in their quest to solve the brutal assassination of Melbourne businessman Gianni 'John' Furlan almost three decades ago.

The 48-year-old died instantly after a bomb strapped to his white Subaru Liberty exploded as he was driving along Lorensen Ave in Coburg North, near Merlynston Railway Station, about 8:35am on August 3, 1998.

The power of the blast was so intense, it flung Mr Furlan's car '15 metres down the road, shattering nearby shop windows and spraying debris over 300 metres away,' and was heard up to 5km away.

Detective Inspector Chris Murray said the explosion happened just outside a primary school as young children were arriving for the day and that it was 'sheer luck that no one else was killed'.

Although no one has ever been charged over the hit, Detective Inspector Murray said police refused to give up on solving the case - and prayed Mr Furlan's killers were as haunted by their evil deeds as his investigators.

'I hope whoever is responsible for John's death thinks about it every day,' he said.

'I hope it weighs heavily on their mind along with the expectation that one day, police are going to catch up with them.'

Gianni 'John' Furlan was on his way to work when a car bomb detonated while the vehicle was moving

The force of the explosion catapulted the Sedan 15 metres down the road and shattered shop windows.

Although Mr Furlan was known to police when he died, the homicide detectives who investigated the attack at the time were unable to establish a motive for the attack.

'Despite an extensive investigation by members of the Arson and Explosives Squad and a number of public appeals for information over the past 27 years, nobody has ever been charged with John's death,' a Victoria Police spokesperson said.

The father-of-two had been alone in his car and taking his usual route from his home on Sydney Rd to his car wrecking business on Sages Rd when the bomb was detonated just after he made his routine stop to pick up coffee and a paper at the Merlynston News Agency.

Detectives believe commercial explosives were attached to Mr Furlan's car during a brief visit he made to a friend's home in Hobart in the days leading up to his death.

'Investigators believe his car was fitted with an explosive device during this time,' a police spokesman said.

'Witnesses reported seeing two suspect vehicles in the days before John's death.'

Police previously offered a $100,000 reward for information relating to the hit back in 2000 in the hope it would encourage a caller who phoned in a vital lead to ring them back.

A family member of Gianni 'John' Furlan told the Herald Sun he had received a threatening phone call

During that call, police were told two cars had been seen trailing Mr Furlan's white Subaru before it exploded.

'John's death was shocking, brutal and a horrendous act of violence that put the lives of many innocent civilians going about their daily life at risk,' Detective Inspector Murray said.

'It has been almost 30 years since John's death, but I would like to strongly reinforce that this is both an active investigation, and one that we believe is solvable.

'We always say that people's circumstances can change over the years and someone who may not have wanted to provide information to police previously may now feel ready to do so.

'We have every reason to believe someone out there today knows what happened to John and who is responsible.'

Melbourne's gangland war began in January 1998 with the death of Alphonse Gangitano shot dead in his Templestowe home and ended when Carl Williams was killed at Barwon Prison in 2010.

Mr Furlan told a friend he believed he was being followed in the period before his death, according the Sunday Herald Sun revealed in 2013.

And a family member also described a late-night telephone call in which a Furlan said he had been threatened.

A taskforce was announced at the time of reports to look at fresh leads.
A disgraced country doctor has described himself as 'selfish', 'wicked' and 'perverse' for secretly taking intimate photos and videos of patients, colleagues and friends - but claims it's really all his mum's fault.

Nicholas Chia Wei Chu was released on parole from John Morony Correctional Centre on Thursday afternoon, after being sentenced for a starting string of perverted crimes.

Chu admitted taking covert photos and videos of 11 patients, including a 14-year-old, at Orange Health Service in central west NSW between January 2022 and February 2023.

He also took videos of several colleagues in various states of undress by secretly positioning his mobile phone in a hospital change room, as well as filming friends naked in their bathrooms and bedrooms in Orange and Sydney.

The 28-year-old was sentenced in the NSW District Court to a maximum term of one year in jail for producing child abuse material related to 21 intimate images of the teenage patient.

Judge Penny Musgrave handed Chu a six-month non-parole period, allowing him to immediately walk out of jail with time already served.

But Chu's sentence is far from over and he will be required to complete 480 hours of community service as part of a two-year Intensive Correction Order handed down for the remainder of the charges relating to his adult victims.

In a hard-written letter penned from his cell in Junee prison, Chu apologised for his abusing his position of trust as a doctor and taking advantage of his standing in the community.

Nicholas Chia Wei Chu (pictured) was sentenced to a maximum term of one year in jail for producing child abuse material related to 21 intimate images of the teenage patient

'I harmed them when I was supposed to help them,' Chu wrote in the letter, released by the court on Monday.

'I abused my responsibilities as a doctor and I did so serially.

'I've caused my patients to suffer by my selfish and wicked actions.'

He also acknowledged eroding public trust in the health profession and devaluing the work of his colleagues.

Chu, who moved from Malaysia to study medicine in Sydney in 2016, wrote that his father and aunt spent their life savings on his university education.

'I recognise what an irresponsible son and nephew I have been, one who squandered all the hard-earned opportunities for a better life.'

Although he took full responsibility for his crimes, he explained he had discovered that his troubled childhood had been a key factor in driving his offending.

Through 28 sessions with a psychologist, he said he had learned his mother's abandonment of him as a child led to an 'anxious-insecure attachment style'.

In a hand-written letter tendered to court, Chu also apologised for the harm he caused his patients due to his 'selfish and wicked actions'

He was diagnosed as a voyeur, with his brain 'misrepresenting' lewd images as emotional intimacy.

Chu said he was grateful to police for stopping his offending, which had 'spiralled out of control'.

'I will work hard and persevere through the challenges to become a better man each day,' he wrote.

Under court orders, Chu is banned from working unsupervised with anyone, cannot enter the Orange region and must allow police access to his electronic devices.

His medical registration has also been suspended.

Western NSW Local Health District issued an apology to Chu's victims, adding those who were identified by police were offered counselling.

'We sincerely apologise for the distress and ongoing impact that these actions by one individual has had on victims,' the statement said.
A Melbourne man could walk out of jail in less than four years after being sentenced on Monday for killing his elderly mother and leaving her for dead on the kitchen floor.

Gordon Steven Ivankovic, 57, pleaded guilty to manslaughter after initially being charged with his mother Marija's 2023 murder.

Her friends found the 81-year-old woman's body in the kitchen of her Maribyrnong home, in Melbourne's north-west.

They had come over expecting to spend the night playing cards together, but her son had killed her hours earlier.

Ivankovic went to visit his mother to help turn over a mattress at about 12.30pm on June 12, 2023, but ended up having an argument with her about clogged roof gutters that escalated into a fatal assault.

Over 16 minutes, Ivankovic grabbed and smothered his mother before leaving her to die on her kitchen floor.

He had grabbed the elderly woman and placed pressure to her face and neck.

With time already served, Gordon Steven Ivankovic (pictured), who killed his mother, could be freed on parole in less than four

Marija Ivankovic's friends found the 81-year-old's body in the kitchen of her Maribyrnong home, in Melbourne's north-west. Ms Ivankovic is pictured

He then fled without calling for help, leaving his mother's friends to find her body five hours later.

Ivankovic's sister tried calling him the day her mother was found dead but he did not return her contact for six days.

He returned to the crime scene the day after the killing, ducking under the crime tape to try to enter the family home.

He became irritated when he couldn't go inside and said: 'I need to know is everyone OK in there?'

Ivankovic also made several calls to his mother's landline, leaving messages saying she should call him back.

Ivankovic bought a train ticket to Sydney and then took a bus to Brisbane, arriving there on June 20.

On these journeys, he used the false names Steven Gordon and John Kovic.

He sought assistance from a homelessness organisation while in Queensland, which helped him to buy plane tickets to return to Melbourne.

Ivankovic's sister Janine Staples (pictured) attended court for his sentence on Monday

Ivankovic was arrested on June 23 in South Yarra, charged with murder and later pleaded guilty to manslaughter after accepting a sentence indication.

Police attended the Maribyrnong property five times between 1993 and 2019 in response to incidents between Ivankovic and his mother, the court previously heard.

Janine Staples, Ivankovic's sister who attended court for his sentence on Monday, previously told the court that 'The loss of my mother has caused me unimaginable pain and grief.

'I have suffered from recurring nightmares about what happened to her ... the pain of her loss will stay with me forever'.

Justice Jane Dixon took into account Ivankovic's difficult upbringing, mental health instability and drug addiction issues as she decided to jail him for a maximum of eight years.

He will be eligible for parole in five years, but with time served could be freed in less than four.

The judge accepted Ivankovic's offending was spontaneous and unplanned, and he was experiencing shame and remorse for killing the only supporter in his life.

'Despite frequent conflict in your relationship with your mother, she continued to love you and kept in close contact with you,' Justice Dixon said.

'Your mother trusted you, was elderly and vulnerable, you assaulted her in her own home where she should've been safe ...

'She was an important person in your life, a support for you and you miss her. You are now without family support.'

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

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Texas Lt. Governor Dan Patrick wants to officially rename the New York Strip Steak to the 'Texas Strip Steak' because he claims 'Liberal New York shouldn't get the credit.'

The Republican suggested an official name change for the popular cut of meat would better align with Texas's abundance of cattle, drawing inspiration from President Trump's recent rebranding of the Gulf of Mexico.

'Just because a New York restaurant named Texas beef a New York Strip in the 19th century doesn't mean we need to keep doing that,' Patrick wrote in a lengthy post shared on Friday.

'Liberal New York shouldn't get the credit for our hard-working ranchers.'

The inspiration for a name change came after the red state lieutenant governor met with feeders and raisers from the Texas Cattle Feeders Association earlier this week.

During the trip, Patrick asked each employee their favorite cut of meat, with several of them naming the classic New York Strip.

'I asked why we didn't call it a "Texas Strip" because New York has mostly dairy cows,' the lt. governor wrote.

As of January 1, 2025, New York State has roughly 1.4 million cattle, including calves. About 111,000 of the animals are beef cows specifically, according to a state agriculture overview.

Texas Governor Dan Patrick has humorlessly proposed officially renaming the New York strip steak to the 'Texas strip steak,' arguing that 'Liberal New York shouldn't get the credit'

The Republican lt. governor suggested that an official name change for the popular cut of meat would better align with Texas's abundance of cattle, according to a post he shared to X on Friday

Patrick questioned why the steak isn't called the 'Texas Strip Steak,' as the Lone Star state has about 12.2 million head of cattle, including 4.4 million beef cows - more than any other state in the country

Texas, on the other hand, has about 12.2 million head of cattle, including 4.4 million beef cows - more than any other state in the country, solidifying its position as a leading beef-producer.

'The Texas Senate will file a concurrent resolution to officially change the name of the New York Strip to the "Texas Strip" in the Lone Star State,' Patrick continued.

'We ask restaurants to change the name of this strip of meat the next time they reprint their menus, and grocery stores to do the same,' he added. 'We want this to catch on across the country and around the globe.'

Patrick appeared to take issue with the origin of the steak's name, which was coined in New York City's financial district more than 100 years ago.

New York Strip was conjured up at Delmonico's, a prestigious 197-year-old steak house in the Big Apple.

The lavish fine-dining establishment, which opened its doors in 1837, initially listed the iconic steak as a 'New York Strip' on its menu, Chowhound reported. The name quickly gained popularity, serving as the standard for states across the country.

Patrick, however, suggested that its '19th century' historical roots had little relevance today, claiming that there is no reason to keep using it.

Aside from the history, Patrick said, the name change will help the Lone Star state gain more recognition for their meat market and economy.

The idea for a name change came after the red state lt. governor met with feeders and raisers from the Texas Cattle Feeders Association earlier this week, noting how the change would help the industry's market

Patrick appeared to take issue with the origin of the steak's name, which was coined in New York City's financial district more than 100 years ago in a lavish restaurant called Delmonico's

'After session ends this summer, I might take a short cruise across the Gulf of America and have a juicy medium-rare Texas strip,' Patrick said in the post, appearing to draw inspiration from President Trump's recent rebrand of the Gulf of Mexico

'In a world filled with serious issues that we address everyday at the Texas Capitol, this simple resolution will help better market Texas beef,' the lt. governor wrote to X.

'That's good for the Texas cattle industry. The Cattle Associations sure liked the idea.'

'Liberal New York shouldn't get the credit for our hard-working ranchers,' Patrick continued. 'We promote the Texas brand on everything made or grown in Texas because it benefits our economy and jobs.'

State residents flocked to the comments, with hundreds expressing their support in swiping the name from New York for an official rebrand of the 'Texas Strip Steak.'

'New Yorkers are nice enough, but they don't know steak,' one comment read.

Another said: 'I stand with the Texas strip. I'll grill one tonight while looking at the Gulf of America.'

'Texas Strip,' wrote another. 'I'm pulling out my strips from the freezer and sharping out NY in favor of Texas.'

Another added: 'TEXAS STRIP IT IS!!!!!'

As of January 1, 2025, New York State had roughly 1.4 million cattle, including calves. About 111,000 of the animals were beef cows specifically

The lavish fine-dining establishment, which opened its doors in 1837, initially listed the iconic steak as a 'New York Strip' on its menu - a move that quickly gained popularity and has since served as the standard for states across the country

A New York Strip's cut comes from the short loin at the top of the cow, a soft and tender area that produces the juicy steak loved by millions

Others slammed the lt. governor in the comments, expressing their frustration that his priorities seem to lie with 'silly tasks' like re-naming meat rather than 'doing something impactful' for the state with his free time.

Yet supporters of the idea believe that the name would reflect the state's dominance in the cattle industry, promoting Texas pride and pushing back against the 'liberal values' that embody New York.

'After session ends this summer, I might take a short cruise across the Gulf of America and have a juicy medium-rare Texas strip,' Patrick concluded his post.

A New York Strip's cut comes from the short loin at the top of the cow, a soft and tender area that produces the juicy steak loved by millions.
A rower has been rescued from the grips of a tropical cyclone off the coast of Queensland after spending months at sea.

Lithuanian ocean rower Aurimas Mockus was days away from completing a 12,000km journey across the Pacific when his vessel was struck by gale-force winds.

Authorities dispatched a rescue aircraft on Friday night after spotting Mr Mockus' emergency beacon around 740km off the coast of Mackay.

A Cairns-based Challenger jet was unable to find the rower amid torrential weather conditions, but established temporary contact via radio.

Mr Mockus told the Challenger crew he felt fatigued but had not suffered any major injuries.

Aerial images released by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority show the lone vessel days out from rescue amid 100kmh winds and rough seas.

Royal Australian Navy's HMAS Choules was finally able to reach his location on Monday morning.

Footage released by the Australian Defence Force shows the 16,000tonne ship charting through rough wake on the open Coral Sea.

Aurimas Mockus (right) was days away from completing a Pacific crossing when Cyclone Alfred cut his journey short

Images released by Australian Maritime Safety Authority show the 'cyclonic' conditions surrounding the rowing vessel

Mr Mockus was on track to become the fourth individual to make the non-stop, solo crossing

Though weather conditions had eased slightly since Friday, the area was still recording 5-7m waves when the rescue team closed in.

'The solo sailor has been rescued and is safely on board HMAS Choules undergoing a medical assessment,' Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral Justin Jones told Daily Mail Australia.

'HMAS Choules will return to Fleet Base East at HMAS Kuttabul Sydney.'

The rescue puts an end to Mr Mockus' journey which began in San Diego, California, last October.

Maintaining a pace of about 70 nautical miles per day, the rower was expected to make landfall in Queensland near Brisbane within days.

On Thursday evening, the 44-year-old posted to his Instagram page saying the following day would decide the fate of his journey.

'The next day is crucial for me... about to get maximum power from a passing typhoon.

'You really don't need to paddle, you just need to survive two days and it will be better.'

Mr Mockus' single-seater vessel was made by a Ukrainian individual to honour their war losses

On track to achieve the crossing quicker than any of his predecessors, the Lithuanian was battling not just weather, but time.

Michelle Lee is the only Australian to have made the crossing without interruption, since fellow Aussie Tom Robinson cut his 2023 trip short with a rescue off Vanuatu.

Brits Peter Bird and John Beede, are the only other individuals to have completed the crossing.

But according to his website, the Lithuanian would have been the first to have completed the passage along his particular route.

Mr Mockus's Ukrainian-made, single-seater vessel was dedicated to the memory of Ukrainians lost in the ongoing war with Russia.

'It is meant to honour the Ukrainians who died in the war and to remind the world that we cannot stop helping a country that is fighting for the freedom of us all,' his website reads.

The former Lithuanian army volunteer claims to have delivered humanitarian aid to war-torn regions of Ukraine.

Mr Mockus was on track to make the Pacific crossing in the shortest time yet

Cyclone Alfred, last estimated by the Bureau of Meteorology to be 465km east of Brisbane on Monday morning, continues to make its way southeast.

The BoM expects the system to turn westward towards the Queensland coast on Tuesday, bringing 'possible gales and heavy rainfall from as early as Wednesday'.

While Alfred is expected to drop below cyclone-strength as it moves over land, NSW recently issued its first cyclone watch in some 35 years.

'This is unusual for NSW We dont often have tropical cyclones watches and warnings in the NSW jurisdiction,' Bureau of Meteorology manager hazard preparedness Steven Bernasconi said on Monday.

Mr Bernasconi said, depending on the cyclone's trajectory, residents in the state's north-east should expect similar conditions to those experienced during Cyclone Zoe in 1974.

Not since then has a cyclone crossed Queensland's southeast coast, forcing 500 Lismore families to evacuate, he said.

'So depending on how this plays out, that's the sort of impact we're looking at,' he said.
Longtime vaccine skeptic Robert F Kennedy Jr made a stark U-turn on Sunday as he urged people to get vaccinated for measles amid a deadly outbreak in Texas.

The newly-appointed Health and Human Services secretary spoke out about the role the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine plays in preventing the deadly virus in an op-ed for Fox News.

He explained that before the MMR vaccine was created and approved by the federal government in the 1960s 'virtually every child in the United States contracted measles.'

From 1953 through 1962, 'on average, there were 530,217 confirmed cases and 440 deaths' with a fatality rate of one in 1205 cases, Kennedy noted.

'Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons,' he wrote in the op-ed entitled 'Measles outbreak is call for action for all of us.'

'As healthcare providers, community leaders and policymakers, we have a shared responsibility to protect public health,' the HHS secretary continued. 'This includes ensuring that accurate information about vaccine safety and efficacy is disseminated.

'We must engage with communities to understand their concerns, provide culturally competent education and make vaccines readily accessible for all those who want them.'

Still, RFK Jr wrote that the decision to vaccinate is 'a personal one.'

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr. made a stark U-turn on Sunday as he urged people to get vaccinated for measles amid a deadly outbreak in Texas

'By working together - parents, healthcare providers, community leaders and government officials, we can prevent future outbreaks and protect the health of our nation,' Kennedy concluded.

The remarks came in stark contrast to Kennedy's previous claims that the jab could cause autism and his statement last week that the ever-expanding outbreak in Texas is 'not unusual.'

No link has ever been detected between vaccines and autism spectrum disorders.

But in recent years, vaccination rates across the country has plummeted - especially in school-age children.

Across the country, the percentage of children seeking exemptions has risen over the past decade, from 0.76 percent in 2014 to 3.3 percent during the 2023-2024 school year.

According to the CDC, in 2024 vaccination coverage among kindergartners declined for all shots - down to 93 percent for MMR.

Experts now blame those falling vaccination rates for the ever-expanding outbreak in Texas, one of several states that allows exemptions based on religious reasons.

It is the states largest in nearly 30 years, largely concentrated in what the Texas Department of State Health Services described as a close-knit, under-vaccinated Mennonite community - a Christian sect that has historically shown vaccine hesitancy.

Last week, Kennedy said that the ever-expanding outbreak in Texas is 'not unusual'

Experts blame those falling vaccination rates for the ever-expanding outbreak in Texas , one of several states that allows exemptions based on religious reasons

At least 146 measles cases have since been identified in the South Plains and Panhandle since January, according to the latest available information from the Texas Department of State Health Services.

On Wednesday, Texas health officials also confirmed there has been a measles-related death - the first in the United States since 2015.

The Texas Department of State Health Services said the death was in a 'school-aged child who was not vaccinated' and had been hospitalized last week.

The federal department of Health and Human Services is now providing technical support and vaccines to Texas, as well as lab support and outreach materials in Low German - a language commonly used by the Mennonite community in West Texas - as well as daily communication with local officials.

But Dr. Lara Johnson, a pediatrician and chief medical officer at Covenant Children's Hospital in Lubbock, Texas is now warning that this is just the 'beginning of the outbreak' and 'we're going to see a lot more illness among unvaccinated kids over the next few months.'

One infected person can spread the highly contagious respiratory illness to 12 to 18 other people in an unvaccinated population.

The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with airborne droplets that spread when a person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.

The measles outbreak in Texas is the states largest in nearly 30 years

Vaccine uptake across the US are falling and the MMR shot that protects against measles has fallen below a dangerous threshold

Cases have now been reported in New Mexico, where authorities said they found nine cases in adults and school-age children, and in Georgia, where six members of the same Atlanta-area family fell ill with measles.

California also reported three cases, excluding one in a foreign traveler who arrived at Los Angeles International (LAX) airport this week while infectious.

New Jersey and New York have each reported three and two cases, respectively, all in unvaccinated individuals.

Alaska, Washington state, and Kentucky have each had one case, according to the latest data.

The virus causes tiny white spots inside the mouth, flat red spots on the neck, trunk, arms, legs and feet, ear infections and an intense fever.

Cold-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough and a runny or blocked nose, are usually the first signal of measles before a rash develops.

In extreme cases, measles can cause pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and may even lead to death.

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Most of the young patients Dr. Johnson said she has seen are being hospitalized for breathing difficulties and are in need of supplemental oxygen, while others have very high fevers, which can be fatal in young children.

With the outbreak spreading in Texas, she says it is best to keep vulnerable children 'out of the grocery store and crowded places as much as possible' and 'if you're worried about your baby, call your pediatrician.'

From her experience, Dr Johnson says parents of vaccinated children shouldn't be overly concerned as they are 'very unlikely to get it.'

But for parents of unvaccinated children, she says the telltale sign of the virus is a rash which starts on the face.

She also noted that it is not too late for a child to be vaccinated against the virus even after they develop symptoms.
A couple was surprised when their baby was born and was found to have an ear on his cheek as well as a missing eye, as doctors say the infant has a rare condition called Goldenhar syndrome.

The baby, named Vinnie James, was born to parents Grace and Rhys James about four months ago, and his 26-year-old father said that he was initially not breathing. When medical professionals brought the baby to a table, he did not know what to do and just started praying inside the toilet.

Baby Born With Ear on Right Cheek

When James looked at his son, he noticed that he had an ear on his right cheek, leaving him shocked at the sight. The father added that the baby was then rushed into surgery after being born and spent 65 days in the hospital for medical interventions for Goldenhar syndrome.

This is a rare condition that the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia defines as an abnormal development of a baby's eye, ear, and spine. It added that the condition typically only impacts one side of the body, and in Vinnie's case, it impacts his right side, according to People.

Read more: Montana Indian Child Welfare Act Expansion Receives Support From State Senators

The Cleveland Clinic also estimated that Goldenhar syndrome affects between one in 3,500 and one in 25,000 births. James said that they were in no way prepared to see their child with such a rare condition, adding that they were confused and tired.

When Vinnie was only a month and a half, he was forced to have a tracheostomy, which is where medical experts surgically created a hole in front of his neck. This was done in order to help him breathe, but it leaves him struggling with frequent chest infections.

Having a Hard Time Breathing

Despite the baby making progress, doctors had to suction Vinnie's tracheostomy several times a day to help him live. Since being discharged from the hospital, the infant has suffered from two chest infections, the DailyMail reported.

Now, the baby is under the care of Great Ormond Street Hospital in London and has started the process of getting a prosthetic for his missing eye. On top of this, Vinnie would need to get surgery to relocate his ear when he is a few years older.

The infant's parents need to travel from Bridgend to Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, every two weeks for their baby's eye appointments. The cost of travel and living expenses is another point of concern for the couple.

A GoFundMe page was set up to help Vinnie's parents acquire the finances they need to help their young son. The page has raised more than $6,000 so far, which Rhys said is the "biggest blessing we've ever received," as per The Sun.
A janitor in Boston, Massachusetts earned a jaw-dropping salary last year, with his take-home pay totaling over half a million dollars thanks to unused vacation hours.

Paul Sordillo, a building services manager at Boston Public Schools took home a whopping $567,427 in 2024, according to public city payroll data.

Sordillo's base bay salary was listed at $108,815, however, he racked up an additional pay of $413,783.

He also clocked $24,772 in overtime pay and $20,055 in retro, or retroactive pay, which made up for errors in his past paychecks.

The mysterious $400,000 was listed as 'other,' which a town official confirmed to the Boston Herald was a payout for unused vacation time.

The spokesperson said Sordillo had over 6,000 hours of unused vacation time over multiple decades as a custodian.

Sordillo's union confirmed to the Herald that members are allowed to bank vacation hours over an extended period.

Paying out employees for unused vacation time varies by state law. Some states require employers to do so, while others have levels as to what employees are owed after leaving a job.

A custodian in Boston cashed in on over half a million dollars last year due to over 6,000 unused vacation hours

Paul Sordillo worked as a custodian at Boston Public Schools for over 30 years and finished 2024 with a hefty paycheck

In Massachusetts, employers can have a use-it-or-lose-it policy, preventing employees from rolling over or cashing out their paid time off, but have to give them an advanced notice.

However, employers are expected to pay separating employees any earned or unused vacation time, according to Massachusetts state law.

Employers that fail to pay out their employees for final wages may be guilty of a misdemeanor and have to pay a fine up to $1,000.

In 2023, Sordillo only took home a salary of $123,272.5 with extra pay totaling $9,030, according to city payroll records. He took home the same regular salary in 2022, with an additional pay of $2,410.

It's unclear why Sordillo cashed out on thousands of hours of vacation time, but typically workers can see a lump sum on their final paycheck upon retirement.

According to his LinkedIn account, Sordillo just celebrated 30 years as a building services fleet manager.

He ended 2024 as the second highest-paid city worker, behind police Lieutenant Stanley Demesmin, who took home a total pay of $575,261.

The rest of the city workers in the top ten were with the Boston Police Department and had high-ranking positions.

Sordillo was the only city worker in the top ten earners who wasn't employed with the Boston Police Department

Sordillo's regular annual earnings was a fraction of the sum he took home last year

Sordillo made over double what Boston Mayor Michelle Wu took home in 2024, as she had a total salary of $207,000, ranking 2,139th on the list of top-paid city workers.

Not everyone was happy for the school custodian as Paul Craney with Massachusetts Fiscal Alliance told the Herald that Sordillo's total take-home pay was 'ridiculous.'

'When people are upset about taxes in Boston, they should just look at this payroll. Boston, like Massachusetts, doesnt have a revenue problem, it has a spending problem,' he said.

Sordillo took home significantly more than the average custodian in America, with Glassdoor estimating a total pay range of $40,000 to $59,000 for the role.
A three-year-old boy has tragically drowned after falling off a cliff into a New York river, with his heartbroken family suspecting he may have been chasing a ball in his final moments.

Zaire Alberick, 3, was found in the seven-mile Mamaroneck River that runs through Westchester County on Thursday afternoon, shortly after his family had begun frantically searching for his whereabouts.

The horrific discovery came after the toddler and his mother, Derly Dorval, had recently returned to the Village of Mamaroneck to 'start a new life' for themselves, according to the family.

'He was three,' Denise Barnes, Zaire's aunt, told CBS News. 'He was just a beautiful little boy.'

Early Thursday afternoon, Zaire, along with the family dog, wandered two blocks from his home near North Barry Avenue and First Street, prompting a frantic search by the little boy's grandfather and surrounding neighbors.

Despite the family's extensive search efforts, they reported Zaire missing around 2.15pm after they were unable to locate him.

Village of Mamaroneck police officers arrived and searched for the toddler for about 20 minutes before tragically discovering his body in the Mamaroneck River, right near the Hillside Avenue Bridge.

EMS crews pronounced the three-year-old dead at the scene upon their arrival.

Zaire Alberick, 3, of Mamaroneck, New York, tragically drowned after falling off a cliff into the seven-mile Mamaroneck River on Thursday afternoon

Authorities said that the toddler had fallen off a small cliff, plummeted 10 feet into the waters below, drowned and was carried downstream near the Hillside Avenue Bridge, where he was later discovered

The mourning family, including Zaire's aunt Denise Barnes (pictured), believe that his death could have been easily prevented if there had been a protective barrier alongside the cliff's edge, as they believe he was chasing a ball in his final moments

Authorities said that the toddler had fallen off a small cliff, plummeted 10 feet into the waters below, drowned and was carried downstream to the area where he was later found, The New York Post reported.

The mourning family believe that Zaire's horrendous ending could have easily been prevented if there had been a protective barrier alongside the cliff's edge, as they believe he was chasing a ball in his final moments.

'When he went to go look at it, there was a ball in there, and he loved balls,' Barnes told CBS. 'So we think, perhaps, he wanted to retrieve the ball.

'The house is right there,' she added. 'He walked right into the river. The fact that there is no fence is horrific.'

Zaire's death hit close to home for both friends and strangers in the community, as they held hands in support of the grieving family at the very spot where the toddler fell to his death.

'There's no words,' Emily Myers, a fellow parent, told CBS. 'It's just a feeling that we are all here.'

'At times like this, that's what you need,' Ashley Mauriello, another parent, told the outlet. 'You need community.'

Zaire's tragic ending left parents in the community reeling over the 'what if's' as they thought about their own children at home, realizing how life can dramatically change within just seconds.

Early Thursday afternoon, Zaire, along with the family dog, wandered two blocks from his home near North Barry Avenue and First Street, prompting a frantic search by the little boy's grandfather and surrounding neighbors

Zaire's death hit close to home for both friends and strangers in the community, as they held hands in support of the grieving family at the very spot where the toddler fell to his death

'It can happen,' Mauriello added. 'I have a little one that's very curious. I can't even imagine, truly.'

Myers agreed, adding: 'We both have children who are three, so we just think it could be any one of us.'

The family organized a candlelight vigil in Zaire's memory on Sunday evening, right at the bridge where his body was found just days ago.

'Let's light the night with prayer, memories and love as we honor and remember a life lost too soon,' the flier read.

A GoFundMe page was created by Barnes, which asks for 'prayers and support for this young family as they plan a funeral for their beloved three-year-old son.'

'Zaire and his mother, Derly Dorval, recently moved back to Mamaroneck to start a new life. She was staying with family until she got back on her feet,' Barnes wrote.

'She just started a new job at Glenn Island Nursing Home in New Rochelle as a CNA and was working towards getting an apartment for her and her son,' she continued.

'Both she and Zaire's father, Zanetti Alberick, are devastated. Derly is currently hospitalized due to her grief of losing her only son.'

The fundraiser has raised more than $19,500 as of Sunday evening.
A council has banned its staff from using the term 'hard-working families' out of fear it could offend the jobless and make them feel 'undeserving'.

Wokingham Council in Berkshire issued the advice in its new inclusive language guide.

Terms like 'blacklist' and 'whitewash' are among others outlawed as they could be considered 'racist' while staff are also being warned 'sustained eye contact could be considered aggressive' in some cultures.

The guide states: 'Talking about 'hard-working families' implies those who are not working are undeserving.'

Free Speech Union chief Toby Young said: 'Of course, it would be Wokingham borough council that came up with this.

'I expect the next step will be to delete the last two syllables of their name so it becomes Woke Borough Council.

'More inclusive that way because the hard of understanding will get what the council's all about.'

The news comes after it emerged last year Sunderland City Council had also banned the phrase 'working class' - but this time because it was too British.

Wokingham Borough Council offices pictured. The Berkshire authority is being branded Woke Borough Council after it issued the controversial advice in its new inclusive language guide

Free Speech Union chief Toby Young said: 'Of course, it would be Wokingham borough council that came up with this'

And just a couple of days ago it was revealed Cardiff University told students not to use colloquial phrases such as kill two birds with one stone or a piece of cake, for that very reason.

The guidance was issued in an EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) awareness module, which is mandatory for all first year students.

It saw students asked a series of questions on how privileged they are which was then converted into a privilege rating.

They were further told it is a micro aggression  defined as statements that reveal bias or stereotyping  to make comments such as everyone can succeed if you just work hard enough.

Free speech campaigners criticised the university for attempting to police everyday language.
A Delta flight from Boston to New Orleans was instructed to turn around after a mysterious 'smoky odor' was detected in the cabin after the plane was already in the air.

The crew reported fumes in the flight deck and cabin, resulting in the plane returning to Massachusetts on Sunday morning at 9:35 am.

Delta Flight 1398 was carrying 87 passengers, three flight attendants, and two pilots when the emergency landing occurred.

'Our flight crew followed established procedures and returned to Boston safely,' a spokesperson for Delta said in a statement.

'We sincerely apologize to our customers for the delay in their travels.'

Even though an emergency was declared with air traffic control, the plane landed safely at Boston's Logan International Airport after 48 minutes, according to flight logs.

Passengers had to wait for hours at the airport before the plane was determined safe to fly.

Delta Flight 1398 departing at 8:48 am EST is listed as 'diverted,' but it's unclear what led to the plane's sudden landing.

A Delta flight from Boston to New Orleans was instructed to turn around after passengers detected a 'smoky odor' (file photo)

The incident occurred at Boston Logan International Airport (pictured) on Sunday morning (file photo)

Since the diversion on Sunday morning, the two other Delta flights between Boston and New Orleans were successfully completed. The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating what happened to the diverted flight.

Nya Halidy, 32, a passenger on the flight told the Boston Globe that her three hour flight turned into a frustrating all-day affair.

Despite her trip getting off to a rocky start, Halidy told the publication that the crew worked to keep passengers calm while in the air.

'When it was happening, I had a good understanding... and people werent really panicking,' Halidy told the Globe.

She added that the pilot announced there was an 'air conditioning malfunction' and cabin pressure could be affected.

After the plane landed back in Boston, Halidy said the fire department responded and informed passengers that if they begin to feel nauseous they could have inhaled the fumes.

'Im definitely a little frustrated, because Im still not sure whats happening with some of the accommodations I had,' Halidy said. 'But I havent slept in 48 hours, so Im just more tired.'

Air travel has come under close watch recently following the devastating crash on January 29 between a Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines commercial flight.

A Delta airlines flight flipped over while landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 18

The aircrafts crashed in the Potomac River near Washington DC, killing all 67 people involved.

Since then, another Delta airlines flight crashed at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 17.

Disturbing footage captured the flight flip on its roof during landing. There were 80 passengers on board during the crash and all of them survived with only minor injuries.

Dailymail.com reached out to Delta Airlines and the FAA for comment but didn't immediately hear back.
Northern NSW is in the firing line of Tropical Cyclone Alfred as it moves towards south-east Queensland in a rare twofold blow, authorities have warned.

Alfred is currently a category-one cyclone, twisting about 430km east off the southern Queensland coastline.

The cyclone is set to develop into a category two system overnight and could make landfall by Thursday, promising to be one of the most destructive in the region in decades with gusts in excess of 125km/h.

A cyclone hasn't crossed the south-east Queensland coast in 51 years when Cyclone Wanda caused catastrophic floods in January 1974, before ex-Tropical Cyclone Zoe wreaked more havoc across two states two months later.

Cyclone Nancy was the last to make landfall in NSW, hitting near Byron Bay in 1990.

Queenslanders living in island and bay communities will be among the first to prepare to evacuate or batten down the hatches as early as Tuesday.

Steven Bernasconi, the Bureau of Meteorology's manager of hazard preparedness, said the forecast was unusual.

'This is unusual for NSW... We don't often have tropical cyclone watches and warnings in the NSW jurisdiction,' he said.

Cyclone Alfred has been 'yo-yoing' between category one and two strength off the coast of south-east Queensland

Millions of Aussies in south-east Queensland and northern NSW are on cyclone watch as the wild weather worsens. Pictured is the Gold Coast on Monday

Cyclone Zoe cut railway lines, caused landslides, and forced thousands of Lismore and Murwillumbah residents to evacuate, he added.

'So depending on how this plays out, that's the sort of impact we're looking at,' Mr Bernasconi said.

NSW is likely to experience gale-force winds over the next two days because of Cyclone Alfred, he said.

Millions of Aussies have been urged to prepare for the worst with the latest analysis still suggesting Alfred could make landfall anywhere between Bundaberg and the NSW border.

Coastal hazards, including high tides, hazardous surf and currents are likely to continue in south-east Queensland and northern NSW.

Damaging winds will bring increasing rainfall to the area over the week.

'Heavy rainfall is forecast for southeast Queensland and northeastern New South Wales from Wednesday,' the latest bureau alert states.

'Heavy to locally intense rainfall which may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding may occur near and south of the cyclone centre as Alfred approaches the coast late on Thursday or early Friday.

'Flood watches have been issued for these areas.'

Experts are suggesting the cyclone could make landfall anywhere between Bundaberg and the NSW border

The cyclone is already causing brutal swells, massive tides and coastal erosion in Queensland

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli asked the Sunshine State to take the warnings seriously.

'My message to Queenslanders today is please be prepared,' he said on Monday.

'It is important that people take the event seriously, they stay up to date with warnings.'

'We're dealing with a very heavily populated part of the state, a [part of the] state that hasn't seen a cyclone for many years, in fact, many decades, get this close to the coast.'

Premier Crisafulli said the immediate priority was islands and bay communities which could be cut off as early as Tuesday.

'Anyone who lives on those bay islands  we are asking them to begin  with earnestness  to start making their plans and considerations,' the Premier warned.

'Ferry services are continuing at the moment but that could change in the very near future.

'We're asking people who live on those islands to make a conscious decision  to either leave or stay.

'It is important they make that decision fairly soon because that window will close.'

Authorities have categorised their fears into three stages: the damaging tides and swell and erosion caused by them, damaging gusts of winds, and flooding in the region.

Outside of the potential impact zone, authorities in the NSW northern rivers and mid north coast already have emergency crews on standby to deal with floods and storms forecast.

Authorities have warned swells will pick up further over coming days and could be incredibly dangerous. Pictured is a surfer riding the massive swells on Queensland's Sunshine Coast

Cyclone Alfred is expected to bring damaging winds in excess of 100km/h and flooding rains

'[We have] sent communication equipment, support personnel, aviation resources and specialised vehicles ahead of the forecasted impacts later this week,' NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan said.

'Moderate to major riverine flooding and flash flooding is possible which could close roads, inundate properties and lead to evacuations in some parts of the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast from Wednesday through to at least the weekend.'

Winds are forecasted to strengthen into gales, reaching damaging gusts of up to 120 km/h, affecting the coastal and island communities of north-eastern New South Wales from the Queensland border right down to Grafton on Wednesday.

Queensland Police and the state's SES also outlined the steps those in potentially flood zones should follow over the coming days.

'The weather and its impacts can vary across the state and knowing your location will help you understand the hazards you may face. Get to know your local environment and research the potential impacts of severe weather,' a SES spokeswoman said.

'Make an emergency plan; Pack an emergency kit; Prepare your property.'

'This plan should reflect specific needs of all family members and outline the steps to take should an emergency arise.'

Onlookers observe the weather at the Seaway on the Gold Coast on Monday

Cyclone Wanda (above) was the last to make landfall in south east Queensland, back in 1974

'Pack an emergency kit with essentials that can last you a minimum of three to seven days in case you lose power or do not have access to clean water.'

'Storm proof your roof and keep your home and property in good condition by regularly checking your roof for repairs, keeping gutters clean as well as safely trimming trees and overhanging branches.'

'Secure, weigh down or put away any loose items around the house, yard or balcony. Items such as potted plants, outdoor furniture, garbage bins, and trampolines can become dangerous missiles.'

'Identify the strongest room in your home to shelter in during storms and cyclones. Usually this would be the smallest room in the house, with the least windows.'
The UK poured cold water on French proposals for a month-long partial ceasefire in Ukraine today after a crisis summit.

Emmanuel Macron floated the idea following a weekend of frantic diplomacy that culminated in the gathering in London yesterday.

European leaders and Canada were scrambling to thrash out a plan after the extraordinary White House bust-up between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday.

That has sparked threats to stop US military support, with claims that the president is demanding a personal apology. Mr Zelensky has stopped short of that while moving to cool the feud, heaping praise on the support the US has given up to now.

He also told reporters after the summit that Ukraine was still 'ready to sign' the minerals deal, and he is ready to return to the Oval Office for discussions.

As panicking Nato powers adjust to a new reality of a less engaged America, Sir Keir has been trying to mobilise a 'coalition of the willing' that could enforce a peace deal.

After a series of calls with Mr Trump, he said he wants to forge a blueprint for ending the war that can be presented to the White House.

Mr Macron told Le Figaro that France and Britain were looking at a temporary truce that would cover air, sea and energy infrastructure - but not fighting on the ground as it would be 'very difficult to verify'.

Mr Zelensky said he was 'aware of everything' when asked about the plan. Kyiv has repeatedly warned that Vladimir Putin will just break a ceasefire deal.

However, Downing Street sounded cool on the concept, with insiders insisting there were 'various options on the table' and it 'has not been agreed'. Ministers said they did not 'recognise' the specific proposal.

European leaders and Canada assembled to try to thrash out a response after the extraordinary White House bust-up between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday

Mr Zelensky, Sir Keir and Emmanuel Macron in conversation at the summit yesterday

Western allies are trying to get Mr Trump to stand by Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia

The Kremlin dismissed the prospect as 'insolent', saying that the Western allies were 'throwing around ideas'.

Sir Keir is expected to make a Commons statement today after his blitz of high-stakes diplomatic action last week.

MPs will be updated on his meeting with Mr Trump in Washington, as well as the emergency defence summit of European leaders.

Sir Keir told European powers they need to do the 'heavy lifting' in enforcing any peace deal with Russia, warning they stand at a 'crossroads in history'.

He committed 1.6billion towards helping Ukraine purchase 5,000 missiles for its defence and invited European leaders to join a 'coalition of the willing' led by Britain and France.

Asked about the ceasefire plan, armed forces minister Luke Pollard told Times Radio: 'No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, and so I don't recognise the precise part you mentioned there.

'But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine.'

Pressed again on whether the UK and France had presented the summit on Sunday with a plan for a month-long ceasefire, he said: 'You wouldn't expect me to get into the details of what that plan looks like, because at the moment, the only person that would benefit from those details being put in the public domain before any plan is agreed would be President Putin.'

A different tone was struck by Eleonore Caroit, a deputy in the French National Assembly for the Renaissance party and vice president of the Foreign Affairs Committee.

She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that plans for a ceasefire in Ukraine sent 'a very strong message' and showed that 'if we want, we can do something'.

America is attempting to negotiate an end to hostilities directly with Russia but Sir Keir has insisted European countries must play a key role in enforcing a peace deal and deter Vladimir Putin from breaking it.

The Ukrainian president received a warm welcome to 10 Downing Street on Saturday that contrasted with his fractious encounter in the Oval Office a day before.

That led to him cutting short a trip to the US in which he was supposed to sign a minerals deal with Mr Trump, exchanging rights to natural resources for further American military support.

The bust-up between the two presidents in the Oval Office that was broadcast around the world saw them  and American vice president JD Vance  talking over one another in raised voices.

Mr Trump accused Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with world war three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putin's invasion.

The spat exposed a raw divide between the US and its European Nato allies, who rallied to Mr Zelensky's side.

But European states have been urging Mr Zelensky to smooth the row. One senior UK government source told The Times that the Ukraine premier must 'play the game'.

'Trump wants respect. He needs to see that you understand his view, there is a degree of realpolitik in this,' they said.

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social early this morning, Mr Trump urged his followers to 'spend less time worrying about Putin' and 'more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country  So that we don't end up like Europe'.

Sir Keir told the BBC he had sought to act as a 'bridge' and end the feuding, after he held multiple phone calls with Mr Trump, Mr Zelensky and Mr Macron over the weekend.

In a post of his own on X, Mr Zelensky expressed gratitude to Europe and America for the support his country has received since the outbreak of the conflict, but stressed there could be no peace deal without security guarantees.

The summit in London was already planned before the extraordinary on-camera slanging match between Donald Trump, his vice president JD Vance and Mr Zelensky (pictured)

Front row, left to right: Finland's President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Poland's PM Donald Tusk. Centre row from left: Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez, Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Antonio Costa, Canada's PM Justin Trudeau and Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan. Back row from left: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, Netherlands PM Dick Schoof, Sweden's PM Ulf Kristersson. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Norway's PM Jonas Gahr Store, Czech Republic's PM Petr Fiala, Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni and Turkey's foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

He wrote: 'As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate.

'Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkiye.

'Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we've received from the United States. There has not been a day when we haven't felt gratitude.

'It's gratitude for the preservation of our independence  our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us  and for their own security.

'What we need is peace, not endless war. And that's why we say security guarantees are the key to this.'

Positioning himself as a bridge to the White House, Sir Keir told a press conference that he still regarded America as a 'reliable ally'. 'We agree with the president on the urgent need for a durable peace... now we need to deliver together,' he said.

However, he stressed that any deal must have 'strong US backing' with 'every nation contributing in the best way it can'.

Mr Zelensky headed for an audience with the King at Sandringham last night, in another show of solidarity

The comments came after European leaders spent hours trying to thrash out a strategy after the grim scenes in the Oval Office on Friday night.

After embracing Mr Zelensky on the steps of Lancaster House in London, the PM told him 'we are all with you' and urged the gathering to step up to a 'once in a generation moment'.

But there still appear to be huge obstacles to a package that would be accetpable to the US and Ukraine - not least that Russia has yet to agree to beginning talks with Ukraine, and Washington envisages formal ceding of territory while many European states regard that as unacceptable.

The UK ambassador to the US, Lord Mandelson, told the ABC news channel yesterday that Mr Zelensky must 'give his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President is taking, to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine'.

'I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow,' he said.

The summit was already planned before the on-camera slanging match with Mr Trump and his vice president JD Vance.
This is the horrifying moment an influencer is killed after being hit by a speeding boat while surfing in central Chile.

Designer and photographer Javiera Ortiz, who was due to marry in a fortnight, suffered fatal injuries to her head and arms after the fishing vessel ran over her near the shoreline at Rinconada Beach in Tauca, Cobquecura.

The 34-year-old, who had thousands of fans online, was rushed to hospital but soon succumbed to her injuries.

Fans have been paying tribute to Javiera since news of her death emerged and have vented their anger at the actions of the 60-year-old skipper of the boat, who was arrested but subsequently released on bail pending an ongoing criminal probe.

Chilean surfer Alexi Valenzeula said after footage of the accident went viral, showing the motorised fishing vessel speeding towards the shoreline and going over Javiera without seeing her in the ocean: 'As a surfer I regret the death of Javiera Ortiz.

'The fishermen were negligent. All they needed to have done was put one man at the bow where they could have seen her and avoided this unnecessary accident that led to Javiera's death.

'It's manslaughter and I hope it doesn't go unpunished.'

But Cristian Aguila, sounding a note of caution, responded: 'I think the fishermen have been working there for years and the intruders are the surfers.

An influencer who was surfing in central Chile died after being hit and run over by a speeding boat

A 60-year-old skipper had been driving the boat when it hit Javiera Ortiz at Rinconada Beach in Tauca, Cobquecura

The footage of the fatal accident showed it was witnesses who informed the men in the fishing boat they had just hit Javiera

The influencer, according to local reports was due to marry her partner in a fortnight

'They should be the ones taking more precautions.'

One of the 63,500 fans who followed Javiera on Instagram, where the expert showed off her knitting expertise and some of the garments she made, said: 'I'm still in shock at the news. I've only just found out you're gone.

'Rest in peace beautiful and may light illuminate your path and give your family strength to bear this loss.'

Another, referring to Javiera by her shortened nickname of Javi, added: 'We're going to miss you Javi. You were greatly loved.

'Your energy, your desire to share, show and learn in the way you did made you very special.

'May your being be free, filled with the love of all you shared with.'

The footage of the fatal accident showed it was witnesses who informed the men in the fishing boat they had just hit Javiera.

She was rushed to hospital in Cobquecura in a pick-up that had been parked near the beach.

The popular influencer hailed from the city of Rancagua south of the Chilean capital Santiago

She had over 63,500 fans on Instagram, where the expert showed off her knitting expertise and some of the garments she made

The 34-year-old, who had thousands of fans online, was rushed to hospital but soon succumbed to her injuries

The popular influencer hailed from the city of Rancagua south of the Chilean capital Santiago. She had moved to the area where she died, some 220 miles south west of her birthplace, so she could be with her partner.

Local reports said the couple were due to marry later this month.

Police chief Pedro Parra Valdivia, confirming a man's arrest over the fatal incident, said: 'The fishing vessel was being operated by a person aged 60 who didn't see the female surfer as he approached the shoreline.

'She suffered serious injuries which resulted in her death. The arrest took place the same day the victim died.'

Two people including the man detained were in the boat at the time.
A British man was killed in a horror quad bike crash in Thailand this weekend.

Kevin Morgan, 62, from Sterling, Scotland, was reportedly driving the ATV machine at high speed when he smashed into the concrete barrier on a motorway flyover in Lopburi on March 1.

The collision sent the all-terrain vehicle spinning across the road while its pilot was catapulted through the air.

He was said to have cracked his head open after plunging 30ft to the ground below.

Police said they received a report of the accident at 5am. They arrived at the scene and found the Brit's damaged vehicle near the sharp bend.

Black skid marks were smeared on the concrete barrier that the quad bike had struck, while the machine itself was discovered with its front end smashed in as debris littered the road.

Kevin's body was found splayed out on the grass several metres below the flyover.

The machine was discovered with its front end smashed in as debris littered the road

The pilot's body was found splayed out on the grass several metres below the flyover (pictured)

Police Lieutenant Sirirat Darunikorn of the Ban Mi District Police Station said: 'We received a report from the radio centre about the accident at around 5am.

'The vehicle crashed against the bridge barrier and the victim fell to the ground, resulting in his death. The scene was an elevated U-turn bridge over a railway.

'The deceased had a caretaker in Thailand. They were lovers but they weren't married.

'He had been staying in Thailand for around 13 to 14 years, travelling in and out of the country for work before he retired this year.

'After he retired, he stayed in Thailand, and the locals were quite familiar with him. His family here have already informed his relatives back in his home country.'

Kevin was a former electrical inspector and instructor at the Brent Charlie oil and gas platform in the North Sea. However, he retired around two years ago and spent his time with locals and following his passion for DIY and vehicles.

He was also a member of the local Rotary Club, where he participated in humanitarian activities.

A FCDO Spokesperson said: 'We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Thailand.'

Police said the deceased Brit had been travelling to and from Thailand for over a decade

The Rotary Club said: 'We would like to extend our condolences to the family of Mr Kevin, a member of the Rotary Club of Ban Mi. We have lost a quality social service member of our club.'

The man's devastated friends paid tribute online.

Wararat Cheu said: 'You made me confident to speak English and you taught me how to say new words. I'm so glad we could sing together at New Year. You will always be in our hearts.'

Thunyaporn added: 'He was so generous. He always brought beer for everyone and laughed with us. He was very kind and friendly.'

Thailand has one of the world's worst road safety records.

Ministers have set the goal of reducing fatalities from 32.7 deaths per 100,000 people to 12 per 100,000 people by the year 2027.

However, a lack of road safety education in schools along with notoriously easy driving tests, police failures to enforce road laws, and chronic under-investment in infrastructure, all appear to hamper the efforts.
President Trump has invited a freed Israeli hostage who suffered barbaric treatment while he was held in Gaza to the White House.

Eli Sharabi, who was freed on Saturday February 8 after spending nearly 500 days in captivity, is expected to travel to Washington tomorrow.

His gaunt appearance when he was released sparked concern that the 54-year-old had been mistreated or even tortured by Hamas.

Now in a harrowing interview with Israel's Channel 12 Mr Sharabi described how he was beaten, chained and starved during his captivity in Gaza.

After watching Mr Sharabi's interview with English subtitles Trump has invited him and two other hostages to visit the White House.

Mr Sharabi's brother, Sharon, told the Israeli newspaper Haaretz about the invitation.

He said that Mr Sharabi and the other hostages will travel to the US on the private jet of Miriam Adelson - an Israeli-American and major Trump donor.

'Tomorrow morning, we're boarding the plane with Mrs. Adelson's kind help. We'll arrive to see Trump and explain to him up close the urgency of continuing the first stage or beginning the second stage  it doesn't really matter,' Sharon said.

Eli Sharabi (pictured) who was freed on Saturday February 8 after spending nearly 500 days in captivity. His gaunt appearance when he was released sparked concern that the 54-year-old had been mistreated or even tortured by Hamas

Mr Sharabi at Sheba Medical Centre in Tel Aviv after his release. In a harrowing interview with Israel's Channel 12 Mr Sharabi described how he was beaten, chained and starved during his captivity in Gaza

After watching Mr Sharabi's harrowing interview with Israeli media Donald Trump has invited him and two other hostages to visit the White House

He described Trump's invite as 'inspiring' and hoped the meeting will lead to the release of the more than 50 hostages still believed to be in Gaza.

The President previously compared Mr Sharabi and fellow hostages, Or Levy and Ohad Ben Ami, to 'Holocaust survivors' after they were released last month.

During Mr Sharabi's interview he revealed that Hamas' behaviour towards the hostages was heavily influenced by how the Israeli government treated their Palestinian prisoners.

'They came and told us  "[Palestinian] prisoners are not receiving food, so you won't eat. Our prisoners are being beaten, so we'll beat you." That was the constant threat,' Mr Sharabi said.

During his terrifying ordeal Mr Sharabi survived on just 250 - 300 calories a day and was shackled by his legs with heavy chains 'that cut into the flesh with every step' for much of his time in captivity.

It was previously reported that Hams hung Mr Sharabi and his fellow hostages by their feet, throttled them with rope, gagged their mouths and branded them with burning objects.

The captives were deliberately starved, held in a room inside a tunnel so tiny they could not move nor stand and were left struggling for air.

After days without food or water they were handed rotten pita bread which they were made to share with others.

Mr Sharabi and the other hostages will travel to the US on the private jet of Miriam Adelson (pictured) - an Israeli-American and major Trump donor

Mr Sharabi before he was taken hostage. During his time in Gaza he was deliberately starved, held in a room inside a tunnel so tiny they could not move nor stand and were left struggling for air

'We were treated like animals,' one said on being released.

The terrorists also subjected the men to barbaric interrogation sessions over 491 days in captivity.

Hamas strangled them, tied them up and gagged their mouths with cloth so they nearly suffocated.

It was only when they were due for release that the captives were permitted food so that they could stand on their feet during the handover ceremony.

Mr Sharabi was taken hostage from his home at the Be'eri Kibbutz on October 7 2023.

Tragically, he only learnt after his release that his British born wife Lianne, 48, and their daughters Noiya, 16, and Yahel, 13, had died during the attacks.

Hamas taunted him during their handover ceremony where they made him say he was looking forward to seeing his wife and children once he got back home.
Senior Republicans continued to pile pressure on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to apologise or resign as Europe's leaders met to help mend the growing rift over the weekend.

Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives, told NBC News that Zelenskyy 'needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude or someone else needs to lead the country'.

'President Trump is trying to get these two parties to a point of peace. What President Zelenskyy did in the White House was effectively signal to us that he's not ready for that yet, and I think that's a great disappointment.'

The comments came two days after a summit in Washington to sign a critical mineral deal was thrown off course by a public spat between Zelenskyy, Donald Trump and JD Vance.

Zelenskyy insisted yesterday as he left the U.K. that he was 'ready to sign' the minerals deal with Trump and 'just wanted the Ukrainian position to be heard', following a landmark meeting with European allies in London.

'We want our partners to remember who the aggressor is in this war,' he added.

The Ukrainian leader wrote on Telegram today that he would continue to work with Europe to set terms for a possible peace deal to present to the United States.

'In the near future, all of us in Europe will shape our common positions - the lines we must achieve and the lines we cannot compromise on,' Zelenskyy said. 'These positions will be presented to our partners in the United States.'

Zelenskyy reiterated his offer to step down in exchange for NATO membership for Ukraine on Sunday, but warned: 'If they replace me, given what is going on, given the support, simply replacing me will not be simple.'

'It's not enough to just hold an election,' he said. 'You need to also not let me run. This will be a bit more difficult. Looks like you will have to negotiate with me. And I said that I am exchanging for NATO. Then I fulfilled my mission.'

Firefighters continue to extinguish the fire on the fifth floor of a residential building following the Russian Shahed drone attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine on March 2

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy listens questions during a meeting with members of the media on the outskirts of London, Britain, March 2, 2025

President Donald Trump addresses the media as he departs the White House for Mar-a-Lago after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on February 28

Ukraine's European allies met in London on Sunday to reiterate their support for Kyiv and signal to the U.S. a 'coalition of the willing' prepared to help enforce security guarantees, with the future of a U.S. led truce in doubt.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer concluded Sunday's talks with a four-point plan to work with Ukraine to end the war and defend the country against future Russian aggression.

Why hasn't Ukraine signed the mineral deal? Ukraine's Zelenskyy travelled to Washington on February 28 to sign a critical mineral deal with the U.S. The deal, originally drafted by Zelenskyy in autumn 2024, weeks before the U.S. election, could see the U.S. receive a large share of Ukraine's mineral wealth as payment for aid since the invasion. For Ukraine, the hope was that such a deal would help rebuild Ukraine and ensure continued U.S. support. But Zelenskyy has also sought sustainable 'security guarantees' that would keep Ukraine strong and deter the reopening of the conflict at a later date. The Ukrainian leader has already warned Trump of Russia's feigned assurances of peace, citing 25 occasions where the Kremlin has violated ceasefires since 2014. Cautious onlookers also warn that 'appeasement' could signal to belligerent parties globally that they can take territory without lasting consequences, setting a dangerous precedent for security around the world. Advertisement

The weekend crisis talks, which brought together 18 allies, came at a delicate moment for war-battered Ukraine, facing uncertain US support and on the back foot against Russia's three-year invasion.

Days earlier, Trump berated Zelenskyy in front of reporters at the White House, heightening fears he intends to force Kyiv into a peace deal that gives Russian President Vladimir Putin what he wants.

But European leaders closed ranks in support of Kyiv, with Zelenskyy saying afterwards the summit cemented their commitment to work towards peace.

Sir Keir said that Britain, France 'and others' would work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, which they would then put to Washington.

French President Emmanuel Macron, flying back from the summit, told Le Figaro newspaper that France and Britain wanted to propose a partial one-month truce 'in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure'.

Both have said they are prepared to deploy British and French troops to Ukraine to help preserve any truce.

With no guarantee of US involvement, 'Europe must do the heavy lifting', Starmer said.

Macron also suggested that European countries should raise their defence spending to between 3.0 and 3.5 percent of GDP to respond to Washington's shifting priorities and Russia's militarisation.

And Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called for the United States and Europe to show Putin 'that the West has no intention of capitulating before his blackmail and aggression'.

Offering diplomatic assurances, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot said that the truce on air, sea and energy would enable allies to verify whether Russia would be willing to end the war with Ukraine.

An initial one-month truce 'would allow to prove the good will of (Russian President) Vladimir Putin if he commits to a truce,' Barrot told France Inter radio.

'And it's then that real peace negotiations would start. We want a solid peace and a durable peace,' he added.

He added that he believed that a dialogue between Trump and Zelensky could be re-engaged - a message mirrored by Britain's U.S. ambassador, Peter Mandelson, who said on Sunday there was a need for a 'very radical reset' in relations, and that Zelensky and Trump should seek dialogue.

Keir Starmer speaks during a press conference at a summit at Lancaster House on March 2, 2025 in London, England

Firefighters continue to extinguish the fire on the fifth floor of a residential building following the Russian Shahed drone attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine on March 2

Britain's King Charles III and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, right, shake hands during their meeting at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, England, Sunday, March 2, 2025

Ukrainian soldiers and relatives of fallen soldiers walk with national flags to the sites of airstrikes and the places where soldiers died, during an event dedicated to the memory of fallen Ukrainian soldiers on the anniversary of deadly bombings, in Kharkiv on March 2, 2025

Moscow dismissed the four-point plan for peace in Ukraine as 'insolent', lamenting the suggestion of putting peacekeepers in Ukraine to uphold the peace.

'President [Emmanuel] Macron is constantly throwing around some ideas, same as [Sir Keir] Starmer,' Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said.

How much money has Ukraine REALLY received from the US? Donald Trump has claimed that a mineral deal with Ukraine would allow the U.S. to recoup up to $350bn in financial aid given to Ukraine. According U.S. federal government sources, Congress has allocated $174.2bn in funds for Ukraine since 2022. Ukraine Overnight, another official government tracker, assessed that $182.8bn has been pledged, with $83.4bn so far distributed. Trump claimed during Macron's visit that Europe was also reclaiming money sent to Ukraine. Macron noted that both Europe and the U.S. had given a mix of grants and loans. The equipment given to Ukraine by the U.S. is 'mostly old and sometimes inoperable'. The ISW notes sending equipment from old stockpiles 'is enabling the U.S. to modernise its own military to be better prepared to fight the next war'. Most of the military aid given to Ukraine by the U.K. also consisted of old equipment that would have otherwise been thrown away, the UK National Audit Office reported last year. Advertisement

'They say they are preparing some thousands of peacekeepers, that they will give them air support. This is also insolent.

'This plan of introducing peacekeepers to Ukraine is a continuation of pitting the Kyiv regime against us.'

Lavrov hailed Trump as a 'pragmatist' whose 'motto is "common sense"'.

Suspicions have fallen on Russia's broad backing for Trump's proposals, judged conciliatory to Moscow.

Former Russian president Dmitry Medvedev wrote on X on Friday that Trump was 'right' that 'the Kyiv regime is "gambling with WWIII".

And Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov judged on Sunday that America's foreign policy pivot now 'largely' aligns with Russia's 'vision' - as the U.S. reportedly ordered the Pentagon to stop all offensive cyberoperations against Russia.

The Institute of the Study of War, an American nonprofit research group and advocacy think tank, assessed that the proposed U.S. mineral deal could nonetheless scupper any Russian ambitions to reinvade Ukraine.

It said that the Kremlin was 'investing significant time and effort into undermining and misrepresenting the U.S.-Ukrainian mineral deal, indicating that the Kremlin views the deal as an impediment to accomplishing Russian President Vladimir Putin's objectives in Ukraine'.

The deal would 'represent a long-term U.S. economic investment in Ukraine' and could make it more difficult to reopen the conflict.

Without security guarantees, Kyiv's backers fear that businesses would be deterred from investing in Ukraine, which could allow Russia time to strengthen before attacking a vulnerable Ukraine again.

Ukrainian commentators also warn that the presence of U.S. businesses in Russia before 2014 did not stop Russia from invading Crimea.

The signing of the deal, which would see the U.S. and Ukraine create a joint fund granting the U.S. access to Ukraine's natural resources, was cast aside after Friday's disastrous meeting between Donald Trump, JD Vance and Zelensky.

'You're gambling with millions of people  You're gambling with World War Three,' Trump said in front of reporters on Friday, urging Zelensky to make a deal or else the US 'are out'.

Vance accused the Ukrainian leader of being 'disrespectful', and he and the US president claimed Zelensky had not been thankful enough for US military aid.

Trump later told reporters the meeting with the Ukrainian president 'didn't work out exactly great', adding that his counterpart wanted to 'fight, fight, fight' while the US was 'looking to end this death'.

President Donald Trump, accompanied by Viktor Knavs, gestures as he walks across the South Lawn of the White House, Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Washington

Front row, left to right: Finland's President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Poland's PM Donald Tusk. Centre row from left: Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez, Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Antonio Costa, Canada's PM Justin Trudeau and Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan. Back row from left: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, Netherlands PM Dick Schoof, Sweden's PM Ulf Kristersson. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Norway's PM Jonas Gahr Store, Czech Republic's PM Petr Fiala, Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni and Turkey's foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Ukrainian servicemen of the 24th Mechanized Brigade firing a MRLS BM-21 'Grad' towards Russian positions on February 23

Ukrainian servicemen from the 24th Mechanised Brigade conduct a field training exercise in an undisclosed location in the Donetsk region, on February 16, 2025

The minerals deal reportedly involves no security guarantees by the US to Ukraine, which has been a key demand by the war-torn country so far.

The Ukrainian military meanwhile said this morning that it had shot down 46 of 83 drones launched by Russia overnight.

A further 31 were 'lost' and did not reach their targets, likely due to Ukraine's electronic warfare countermeasures, the military added.

As Ukrainian forces continued their advances near Toretsk,
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Protests criticizing billionaire Elon Musk and Vice President JD Vance have erupted across America following President Donald Trump's bitter Oval Office row with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Crowds assembled outside Tesla stores in New York City, Los Angeles and Boston to slam Musk for firing thousands of federal employees, and terminating hundred of aid contracts and federal leases in his effort to shrink the government.

Hundreds of people gathered outside a Tesla dealership in NYC on Saturday waving signs that read 'No Dictators in the USA' and 'Burn a Tesla: Save Democracy'. Nine people were arrested at the demonstration.

Furious protesters also gathered at a resort in Warren, Vermont, where Vance was vacationing with his family, holding signs that claimed 'Vermont stands with Ukraine' and urged the Vice President to 'go ski in Russia'.

Footage captured on the ground shows hundreds lining the streets of the ski town with signs featuring swastikas and labelling Vance as 'Nazi scum'. Others branded Vance 'Putin's pawn' as they waved Ukrainian flags.

The wave of protests comes a contentious White House meeting on Friday that saw Vance and Trump break out in a shouting match against Zelensky.

The blowup, which showcased Vance in an attack dog role for his boss, stunned leaders around the world and raised questions about the next phase of the war and Trump's efforts to end it.

Top Republicans on Sunday pushed Zelensky to change his position on the war with Russia or step aside, ramping up pressure on the Ukrainian leader.

The Musk Masquerade March outside SpaceX in Hawthorne, California saw thousands of citizens line the sidewalks in front of Elon Musk's company on Saturday

A protester holds a sign that says 'We stand with Ukraine' outside a Tesla showroom during a protest on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New York City

Hundreds lined Crenshaw Boulevard in front of SpaceX's Hawthorne headquarters in protest of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency on Saturday, March 1, 2025

A protester, dressed as a green Martian alien, holds a sign in support of Ukraine, outside the SpaceX building in Los Angeles on March 1, 2025

A protester holds a sign that says 'Starve Tesla not children. Save USAID' outside a Tesla showroom during a protest on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New York City

Nine people were arrested during the raucous 'Pull Plug on Elon Musk' protest outside the Tesla dealership in Manhattan on Saturday.

The demonstration, which police said involved around 300 people, was protesting Musk's role in sweeping cuts to the federal workforce.

Crowds were heard chanting 'No more business as usual!', 'Stop the coup!', and 'Nobody voted for Elon Musk!' as they assembled outside the showroom.

The protesters waved signs bearing slogans including 'Don't Buy a Swasticar,' 'Nazi,' 'Musk Is Out of Control' and 'F*** MAGA.'

At least one of the Tesla store's glass front doors was smashed in the chaos, the New York Daily News reported.

The protest was one of a wave of 'Tesla Takedown' demonstrations staged across the country targeting billionaire Musk, who is spearheading the Trump administration's so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.

Throngs of protesters also descended on the electric vehicle maker's showrooms across the US, blocking traffic, chanting and waving signs. One demonstrator is pictured outside the SpaceX Headquarters in Hawthorne, California

Protesters dressed as 'Trillionaires for Trump' protest outside a Tesla showroom on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New York City

Hundreds lined Crenshaw Boulevard in front of SpaceX's Hawthorne headquarters in protest of Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency on Saturday, March 1, 2025

A woman holds a sign that reads 'Don't Sell Out Ukraine You Stuppid Yam' as she protest along Crenshaw Boulevard in front of SpaceX's Hawthorne headquarters on Saturday

A protester holds a sign that says 'Broligarchy sucks' outside a Tesla showroom during a protest on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New York City

Throngs of protesters also descended on the electric vehicle maker's showrooms in Jacksonville, Florida, Tucson, Arizona, and other cities, blocking traffic, chanting and waving signs that slammed Musk, including one that read 'Send Elon to Mars'.

'We are taking action at Tesla, Musk's flagship company,' the organizers said on the website actionnetwork.org, calling for people to dump Tesla stock and 'join the picket lines.'

'Detaching Musk from Tesla would be a meaningful blow against this administration and its prerogatives, because it would be a strike against what they hold most dear: money and power,' actor and filmmaker Alex Winter wrote in a Rolling Stone article. Winter has posted on social media that he helped organize the protests.

Musk, the world's richest person, is leading an unprecedented push to shrink the federal government that has resulted in the firing of thousands of employees and the termination of hundreds of aid contracts and federal leases.

In some cases, federal agencies have been forced to try to hire back key workers that had been fired, including some responsible for America's nuclear weapons, scientists trying to fight a worsening outbreak of bird flu and officials responsible for supplying electricity.

At least 100,000 of the 2.3 million federal employees have agreed to buy-outs or have been fired since Trump took office on January 20.

Protesters block an entrance to a Tesla showroom during a protest on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New York City

A demonstrator outside SpaceX Headquarters in Hawthorne, California holds a sign urging officials to 'Remove Musk' as she advocates for federal workers

A man holds a poster depicting businessman Elon Musk as 'Putin's Puppet', outside the SpaceX building in California on Saturday

Demonstrators in Hawthorne, California hold signs calling for Musk's deportation

A protester holds a sign that says 'Trump lies matter' outside a Tesla showroom during a protest on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New York Cit

A protester holds a sign that says 'This musk smells like fascism' outside a Tesla showroom during a protest on the westside of Manhattan on March 1, 2025 in New Yor

Crowds protesting Vance lined roadways Saturday near a Vermont ski resort, the day after the Oval Office blowout over Ukraine.

Many of the hundreds of demonstrators, while other anti-war protesters waved Palestinian flags or signs in support of immigrant rights.

Protesters showed up at several locations in the area, including both sides of Route 100 in Waitsfield.

Though demonstrations were planned days in advance, they were energized Saturday morning by a heated Oval Office exchange a day earlier between Vance, Trump and Zelensky.

Vance berated Zelensky for challenging Trump's assertions that Russian President Vladimir Putin could be trusted.

'Ski Russia because JD Vance has no friends in Vermont, but he's got lots of friends in Russia, so he should go there for vacation,' Tekla Van Hoven of Waterbury told WCAX-TV.

Vance and his family arrived in Vermont ahead of the weekend, with plans to ski at Sugarbush Resort in Warren, and were welcomed by what Fox News described as a 'mile long' line of protestors.

The Vice President and his family skied on one side of a mountain to avoid the crowds, but protestors are said to have gathered there also, according to the outlet.

Protesters line Main Street in Waitsfield, Vt., to protest Vice President JD Vance's visit on Saturday, March 1, 2025

Footage captured on the ground shows hundreds lining the streets of the town, holding signs in protest

On Friday, Vance and President Trump broke out in a shouting match against Zelensky inside the Oval Office

'There were a handful of protestors at the resort throughout the day, but all were peaceful and none were disruptive,' resort spokesman John Bleh said in an email Sunday. He declined further comment, referring reporters to the White House.

Republican Gov. Phil Scott issued a statement on Thursday welcoming Vance and his family to the state, and asked Vermont residents to do the same even if they have political differences with the vice president.

'I hope Vermonters remember the vice president is here on a family trip with his young children and, while we may not always agree, we should be respectful,' the statement said.

A smaller number of protesters in support Vance and Trump also showed up with a 'welcome rally.'

Tesla and the White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Despite the large amount of protestors, some also came out in support of Vance - flying MAGA flags

Trump and Vance clashed with Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, spurring the Ukrainian leader to leave early without signing a planned minerals deal.

Zelensky argued in the meeting that Putin had not honored a 2019 ceasefire agreement and described him as a killer and a terrorist.

Trump's national security adviser, Mike Waltz, said it was not clear to the administration that Zelensky was ready to negotiate an end of the war.

Waltz underscored Trump's goal for a permanent peace between Moscow and Kyiv involving territorial concessions in exchange for European-led security guarantees.

Asked whether Trump wanted Zelensky to resign, Waltz told CNN's State of the Union program: 'We need a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians and end this war.'

'If it becomes apparent that President Zelensky's either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in his country, then I think we have a real issue on our hands,' Waltz added.

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a top Trump ally and also an advocate for Ukraine, questioned whether the US could still work with Zelensky following the White House clash in remarks to reporters on Friday.

House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson issued a similar message on Sunday.

'Something has to change. Either he needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country to do that,' the top congressional Republican told NBC's Meet the Press' program, referring to Zelensky.

'I'd like to see Putin defeated, frankly. He is an adversary of the United States. But in this conflict, we've got to bring an end to this war.'

The vice president launched into attack mode, after he felt Trump was being disrespected by the Ukrainian president

Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont aligned with the Democrats, dismissed suggestions that Zelensky should resign.

'I think that is a horrific suggestion. Zelensky is leading a country, trying to defend democracy against an authoritarian dictator, Putin, who invaded his country,' Sanders said on Meet the Press.

Republican US Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma said on the same program that he did not agree with calls for Zelensky to resign.

Democrats have expressed disgust over the tenor of Trump's meeting with the Ukrainian leader.

Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut lambasted the White House for drawing closer to Russia than to fellow democracies.

'It is absolutely shameful what is happening right now. The White House has become an arm of the Kremlin,' he said on the State of the Union program. 'The entire pretext for that meeting... was an attempt to rewrite history in order to sign a deal with Putin that hands Putin Ukraine. That is disastrous for US national security.'

Waltz called it 'absolutely false' that the Oval Office meeting was an ambush, and the Trump administration put the onus on the Ukrainians to shift their position.

JD Vance speaks during a meeting with President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office

'We'll be ready to reengage when they're ready to make peace,' Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on ABC's This Week program. He said he had not spoken to Zelensky or Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha since the Friday meeting.

'No one here is claiming Vladimir Putin is going to get the Nobel Peace Prize this year,' Rubio said, while arguing that negotiations with Moscow were required. 'Youre not going to bring them to the table if youre calling them names, if youre being antagonistic.'

Democrat Amy Klobuchar, a senator from Minnesota, said on This Week that she was 'appalled' by the clash in the Oval Office and that she had met with Zelenskiy before he went to the White House on Friday.

'There is still an opening here' for a peace deal, she said.
Businesses are urging more curbs to Labour's French-style employment reforms amid claims the 'right to switch off' will be ditched.

Plans to give staff explicit rights to ignore messages outside of working hours are expected to be dropped this week.

The apparent concession - after complaints that firms are already facing swathes of red tape and tax hikes - is a blow for Angela Rayner, who has championed the overhaul.

However, companies still want the government to go further by watering down other key planks of measures, such as slashing probation periods.

The proposal to grant workers a 'right to switch off' was originally included in Labour's 'new deal for working people'.

Similar proposals have been implemented in countries such as Belgium, Ireland, and France - which allow workers to avoid emails, texts and phone calls received out of hours without fear of reprisals.

The apparent concession - after complaints that firms are already facing swathes of red tape and tax hikes - is a blow for Angela Rayner (pictured), who has championed the overhaul

Rachel Reeves (pictured) is seeking to boost business confidence and economic growth after her tax-raiding budget in October triggered a slowdown

Supporters say the right would help Brits avoid their homes becoming '24/7 offices', after the pandemic drove a surge in remote working.

However, ministers are set to confirm the policy has been dropped when amendments are tabled to the Employment Rights Bill tomorrow.

The decision is said to have been taken by Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds and Chancellor Rachel Reeves over concerns the provision would have been too much of a burden.

Ms Reeves is seeking to boost business confidence and economic growth after her tax-raiding budget in October triggered a slowdown.

The rights overhaul was rebranded as 'Labour's plan to make work pay' in May, with a blanket commitment to ending zero-hours contracts downgraded to ending 'exploitative' contracts.

The government is expected to signal a preference to set probation periods at nine months rather than the six demanded by union leaders.

But Craig Beaumont, executive director of the Federation of Small Businesses, urged ministers to 'listen to some of the disquiet they've heard' and make more concessions.

Pointing to the probation period wrangling, he told The Times: 'They should make it 12 months, because that's what it was under the last Labour government.

'That way you still increase workers' rights, instead of a mish-mash, which no one knows how it will work.'

Mr Beaumont said a survey of FSB members had shown 92 per cent were worried about the impact of the Employment Rights Bill.
A prominent First Nations drag queen has sparked heated debate after he was involved in a 'provocative' stunt at the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Kamilario and Dhughutti person Wendell French  who goes by the moniker of Felicia Foxx  took in the annual event on Saturday as more than 180 floats and 10,000 participants paraded down Sydney's Oxford Street.

Covered in traditional war paint and wearing a red cloth over their groin and red leather thigh-high boots, Foxx posed for a series of photos prior to the event.

In one photo, Foxx held a spear held to the chest of another performer leaning against a tree dressed in a manner appearing to resemble Jesus on the cross.

The images, shared online by Foxx and others, have since sparked public outcry among Christian groups, First Nations people and free-speech advocates online.

'Does this not fall under hate speech?' Christian podcaster Charlie Bakhos captioned the controversial photo.

'Mocking of Christianity as well as mocking Indigenous people themselves. This also trying to divide the country shouldn't be acceptable and millions are going to want answers?

'Where are our leaders in this country, and why is this allowed? Hate shouldn't be accepted against anyone.'

Indigenous drag queen Felicia Foxx sparked controversy with the above role-play at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras on Saturday afternoon

Felicia Foxx donned war-paint style body paint and thigh-high red boots

Mr Bakhos previously denied organising an anti-LGBTQIA+ protest on the final evening of Sydney WorldPride in 2023 after a group of men walked through Newtown chanting the Lord's and Hail Mary prayers.

Cumberland Council councillor and former mayor Steve Christou echoed similar sentiments as he called for an end for funding to the iconic festival which celebrated its 47th year in 2025.

'It is disgraceful that people's religion is being openly mocked with an individual dressed like an Aboriginal stripper pretending to spear Jesus,' he wrote.

'Any other religion this would be considered a hate crime. No Religion deserves to be mocked.

'Why is Government taxpayer money funding these festivals'.

One man posted on X: 'Would like to see what happens if he decided to spear Mohammed.'

Another commentator sparked a mixed reaction as he called for event organisers to 'defund this parade'.

'I'm a culturally insensitive bigot if I don't want to be browbeaten by constant 'Welcome to Country' bulls**t, but it's totally acceptable for a gay Aboriginal, wearing warpaint and thigh-high 'f**k me' boots to act out spearing Jesus Christ at Mardi Gras?' he wrote.

Another performer wearing biblical clothing also appeared in the contentious photo

More than 10,000 participants took part in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras on Saturday

One man replied : 'So your free speech is sacred, but when someone exercises theirs in a way you don't like, it's suddenly a problem?'

'Funny how 'free speech absolutists' become selective speech absolutists when it's about their own beliefs.'

The original poster responded: 'There is a separate argument to be had about tax payers funding obscenity, but you aren't ready for that.'

A torrent of criticism also flooded Foxx's own Facebook page.

'This sickens me. You should be ashamed of yourself! How many of our old Christian leaders fought for our basic human rights and were strong Aboriginal Christian leaders?' one woman wrote.

Another added: 'As an Aboriginal Christian, this sickens me.

'If you're a blackfella and you're gay (or) trans, then okay. But if you're (going to) be a part of cultural events taking place then you respect the lore. Simple as that,' another wrote on the page.

The backlash prompted other Indigenous and LGBTQIA+ activists to jump to Foxx's defence.

First Nations author and director of Indigenous press Magabala Books Bebe Oliver reshared an essay by another advocate which began 'not (going to) lie, it's pretty upsetting seeing Felicia Foxx being criticised'.

'It is drenched in homophobia and transphobia, transmisogny. It breaks my heart and I've been crying about people's responses. As a Black Queer showing up as their authentic selves for Mardi Gras, it should be celebrated that they are showing us what is possible for us...'

Backlash sparked other commentators to defend Felicia Foxx's stunt and attire at the parade

Mr Oliver added his own thoughts to the statement.

'Speak against Felicia and her expression and embodiment of self, and use culture and lore as your argument, and I will remove you from my circle regardless of who you are,' he wrote.

'If in your book Felicia is unable to be whole, then in the same text neither am I.

'Keep your misguided silo views to yourself and let (people) be exactly who they are.'

Foxx, who has previously appeared on the ABC talking about their experience as an Indigenous drag queen was unavailable for comment when contacted by Daily Mail Australia on Monday night.

They did, however, take to social media to share other responses in the wake of the furore.

'Love to all the LGBTQ mob.

'It's terrible seeing Black Fullas use culture as a way to dismiss and erase our Queer family. Cut that sh** out!' it read.

'Queer mob have always had a place in community, stop letting these colonial ideals corrupt your spirit and your thinking. (Foxx) looks deadly, putting their culture and identity on full display for the world to see.'

Another read: 'Seeing so many use culture and lore as a reason to be straight-up homophobic  I promise you, my elders don't give a sh** that I'm queer, they love that I'm able to be myself, especially because they know what it's like to feel shame for something you can't change about your identity.'
A close associate of Vladimir Putin and key figures linked to Donald Trump's inner circle have reportedly been holding secret discussions to restart the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.

According to reports, the talks aim to rescue the controversial undersea pipeline, which funnels Russian gas to western Europe.

It once symbolised Europe's energy reliance on Russia before being sabotaged in September 2022. The blasts on September 26 caused major damage to three of the four Nord Stream pipelines, which took 15 years to construct.

The move would mark a dramatic reversal for Trump, who previously led efforts to shut down Nord Stream 2 and push Germany to buy American liquefied natural gas (LNG) instead.

If successful, the deal could see US investors acquiring a stake in the pipeline's operating company, allowing them to profit if Russian gas flows resume to Germany and other central European nations - should Western sanctions ease after a ceasefire in Ukraine.

It would also give Washington a major foothold in Berlin's energy market.

The secret discussions are said to have taken place in Switzerland, brokered by Matthias Warnig, a former East German intelligence officer and longtime Putin confidant.

Warnig, who ran Nord Stream 2 before it collapsed into insolvency in 2023, reportedly played a key role in assembling potential backers.

The Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines were the biggest symbol of Europes energy dependence on Moscow until three of their four strands were bombed in 2022

The secret discussions are said to have taken place in Switzerland, brokered by Matthias Warnig (pictured), a former East German intelligence officer and longtime Putin confidant

During his first term, Trump aggressively opposed the pipeline, warning that it would make Germany 'captive' to Russian energy

Gas bubbles from the Nord Stream 2 leak reaching surface of the Baltic Sea in the area shows a disturbance of well over one kilometre in diameter near Bornholm, Denmark, September 27, 2022

On the US side, Richard Grenell, Trump's combative former ambassador to Germany and current envoy for 'special missions,' is alleged to have led negotiations.

Stephen Lynch, a wealthy Trump-linked businessman, has also been named as a potential investor in the project.

However, both Grenell and Warnig have denied involvement, while Lynch has yet to comment on the claims.

Despite the reported discussions, relaunching Nord Stream 2 faces massive challenges.

Only one of the pipeline's two strands remains intact, and repairing the damaged section could cost over 79million.

Additionally, the company behind the pipeline is under severe financial strain, with just two months to put together a plan to repay billions of dollars in debt.

Perhaps the biggest obstacle is political. The German government has shown no interest in reviving Nord Stream 2, having suspended its certification just days before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Any attempt to restart the project would likely face fierce resistance from Berlin, as well as from Ukraine and other European allies opposed to deepening energy ties with Moscow.

Trump's apparent change of heart on Nord Stream 2 is raising eyebrows in Washington and across Europe.

During his first term, he aggressively opposed the pipeline, warning that it would make Germany 'captive' to Russian energy.

The blasts wrecked three out of four Nord Stream pipelines, which had become a controversial symbol of German reliance on Russian gas in the wake of Moscow 's invasion of Ukraine, and triggered wild speculation over the possible culprit

This handout picture taken and released on September 29, 2022 shows the release of gas emanating from a leak on the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline

Aerial photo provided by the Swedish Coast Guard on Sept. 27, 2022 shows the gas leak from Nord Stream in the Baltic Sea

Now, with his return to the White House in January, there are signs of a thaw in US-Russia relations - at least in the energy sector.

If American investors were to take a stake in Nord Stream 2, it could pave the way for a broader shift in how Washington handles sanctions on Moscow and negotiations over Ukraine's future.

However, given the scale of opposition to the pipeline, any such deal is likely to face intense scrutiny.

Last year, a Ukrainian military officer allegedly involved in the 2022 operation told the Wall Street Journal the sabotage - pulled off with a single yacht, a six-person crew, rudimentary diving equipment and a set of light explosives - was dreamt up by a few Ukrainian military men amid an alcohol-fuelled bash.

One officer who participated and three other sources familiar with the plan also told WSJ it was initially approved by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but said that former armed forces commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny instructed the team to forge on with the attack when Zelensky got cold feet.

The Ukrainian president's office at the time vehemently rejected the WSJ's investigation as 'absolute nonsense'.
Nigel Farage today blamed Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky for starting a furious row with Donald Trump at the White House last week.

The Reform UK leader, a vocal cheerleader for the US President, accused the war leader of 'overplaying his hand' and sparking the astonishing televised spat with Mr Trump and Vice-President JD Vance.

Mr Farage also criticised president Zelensky for 'bowling up and showing no respect' to Mr Trump, because he failed to wear a suit and tie to his meeting in Washington DC.

The Ukrainian premier, who was given a warm welcome by King Charles at Sandringham yesterday, cut short a trip to the US in which he was supposed to sign a minerals deal with Mr Trump.

Mr Trump sparked global outrage by accusing Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with World War Three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Putin's invasion.

Speaking to LBC today, Mr Farage said Ukraine was a 'corrupt country' and had to accept it was not getting territory such as the Crimea back.

He added: 'If I turned up at the White House I would make sure I was wearing a suit and my shoes were clean.'

After it was pointed out that the Ukrainian president was following in the footsteps of leaders such as Sir Winston Churchill in visiting in battle fatigues, he added: 'If Zelenky wants to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredible old fashioned about this stuff... if you are going in with a positive mindset maybe Zelensky should have thought about that.'

The Reform UK leader, a vocal cheerleader for the US President, accused the war leader of 'overplaying his hand' and sparking the astonishing televised spat with Trump and Vice-President JD Vance

Trump sparked global outrage by accusing Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with World War Three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Putin's invasion

'Zelensky was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didn't back him,' he added.

'It was unwise, yes sure Vance and Trump bit back, but I think in diplomatic terms Zelensky played it very badly.

'I wouldn't expect a guest to be rude to me in my own house, absolutely not.

'I would expect a guest to treat me with respect.'

And he said Ukraine must have a presidential election as soon as a peace deal 'is on the table'.

However, his remarks sparked criticism from other parties.

Tory shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel MP said: 'President Zelensky is a hero, who has stood up to Putin's aggression, and led his country's defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last 3 years - and it is troubling to not hear the Leader of Reform say that.

'For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelensky is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive.

'At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.'

And Lib Dem leader Ed Davey added: ''Zelensky showed courage and integrity in that room - in stark contrast to Farage's cowardly approach of licking Trump's boots.'

European leaders and Canada assembled in London at the weekend to try to thrash out a response after the extraordinary White House bust-up.

Mr Macron told Le Figaro that France and Britain were looking at a temporary truce that would cover air, sea and energy infrastructure - but not fighting on the ground as it would be 'very difficult to verify'.

Mr Zelensky said he was 'aware of everything' when asked about the plan. Kyiv has repeatedly warned that Vladimir Putin will just break a ceasefire deal.

However, Downing Street sounded cool on the concept, with insiders insisting there were 'various options on the table' and it 'has not been agreed'. Ministers said they did not 'recognise' the specific proposal.

UK ambassador to the US Lord Mandelson has been slapped down by a defence minister for suggesting Ukraine should commit to a ceasefire before Russia

Meanwhile, Mr Zelensky has moved to try to cool the feud with Mr Trump, heaping praise on the support the US has given up to now.

He also told reporters after the summit that Ukraine was still 'ready to sign' the minerals deal, and he would return to the Oval Office for discussions.

Meanwhile the UK ambassador to the US Lord Mandelson has been slapped down by a defence minister for suggesting that Ukraine should commit to a ceasefire before Russia.

Lord Mandelson's comments do not represent Government policy, armed forces minister Luke Pollard said.

The ambassador used an interview with American outlet ABC to say that Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky should give 'unequivocal backing' to US President Donald Trump's peace initiative.

Mr Trump's overtures to Russia's Vladimir Putin, with the possibility of Ukraine being sidelined in talks led by the White House and the Kremlin, has alarmed European leaders.

Lord Mandelson said a 'very radical reset' was needed following the Oval Office row between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

'The reset has to consist of the United States and Ukraine getting back on the same page, President Zelensky giving his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President Trump is taking to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine,' he said.

'And the Europeans too, they need to back the calls for a ceasefire, and  by the way  I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow.'

But asked whether Lord Mandelson's remarks reflected Government policy, Mr Pollard told Sky News: 'No. It's certainly right that Ukrainians want peace. I think of all the people on our continent that want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

'But we're still in discussions, diplomatic engagement with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of that deal.

'But it's certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war.'

Asked whether Lord Mandelson misspoke, he said: 'That's not Government policy.'
An elderly man has been killed and several other wounded following a reported terror attack in Israel.

The attacker has been named locally as Jethro Shaheen but authorities are yet to confirm his identity.

The assailant, believed to be around 20-years-old, reportedly stabbed five people, killing a man in his 60s while injuring four others, according to police. The victim has not been publicly named.

A man and a woman in their 30s and a 15-year-old boy are in a critical condition, with a 70-year-old woman suffering 'moderate' injuries, local authorities have added.

Shaheen, who died at the scene, is believed to be a member of Israel's Druze Arab minority who recently returned from abroad.

'The terrorist, an Israeli Druze resident of Shfaram, had spent recent months abroad and returned to Israel last week', the police said in a statement.

'A terrorist exited a bus, stabbed multiple civilians, and was subsequently neutralised by a security guard and a civilian at the scene,' it added.

Hamed Amar of the Israeli right-wing opposition Yisrael Beytenu party said this morning's stabbing does not represent the Druze community.

He strongly condemned the attack, saying: 'Such an act of terrorism is contrary to all moral and human values and certainly does not reflect the loyal spirit of the Druze community in Israel, which is a full partner in the defense of the state and its values.'

Members of ZAKA rescue services carry the body of a 65-year-old killed in stabbing attack in Haifa, Israel, on Monday

Four others were also injured in the incident

Members of Israeli security and emergency services deploy at the site of a stabbing attack at a central bus station in Haifa on March 3, 2025

Israel's Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency service earlier said four people were injured in the incident at a busy bus station on Monday morning.

Head of the MDA Eli Bin spoke of reports of gunfire - although these have not yet been confirmed. The police had also originally reported the attack as a shooting.

In a statement, the MDA said: 'This morning at 9.53am, Magen David Adom's (MDA) 101 emergency dispatch centre in the Carmel region received a report of a stabbing attack at HaMifratz Central Station on HaHistadrut Boulevard in Haifa.

'Large MDA forces were dispatched to the scene, including ambulances, mobile intensive care units, emergency medicycles, and MDA first responders.

'MDA and paramedics provided life-saving medical treatment and evacuated four injured individuals to Rambam Hospital.'

In an earlier statement an Israel police spokesman said: 'Police forces are en route to the scene following reports of a suspected shooting attack in Haifa.

'There are initial indications of multiple casualties, though their condition remains unclear.'

Paramedic Tom Retig added: 'We arrived quickly and saw, near the security checkpoint at the entrance to HaMifratz Central Station, a 65-year-old man lying unconscious, without a pulse or breathing, with penetrating wounds.

Israel's Magen David Adom (MDA) emergency service said four people were injured in the incident at a busy bus station on Monday morning

Cops said the assailant was killed shortly after carrying out the attack

'We performed medical assessments, but unfortunately, there was nothing more we could do but pronounce him dead.

'Our other teams treated the remaining injured individuals.'

It is the first fatal attack in Israel since a ceasefire took effect in the Gaza Strip on January 19 between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The attack came as negotiations between the two sides stalled after the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire ended at the weekend.

Hamas has rejected an Israeli request to extend the first phase - and says it will only release its remaining hostages under the terms of the current agreement.

In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would stop all goods and supplies entering Gaza.
The world's most prolific blood and plasma donor who saved the lives of 2.4 million Australian babies has died.

James Harrison OAM, 88, died peacefully in his sleep at Peninsula Village Nursing Home on the NSW Central Coast on February 17.

After undergoing lung surgery at age 14 which required 13 lifesaving blood transfusions, he began donating plasma as soon as he became an adult in 1954.

Dubbed the 'Man with a Golden Arm', Mr Harrison rolled up his sleeves every fortnight to donate plasma more than 1100 times until he turned 81 in 2018.

His plasma contained the rare and precious antibody Anti-D, which is used to make the life-saving medication given to mothers whose blood is at risk of attacking their unborn babies.

Even when he went away on holidays, Mr Harrison would arrange to donate in another state to ensure he never missed a single appointment.

Nor did his commitment wane later in life while grieving the loss of his wife Barbara, who was also a blood donor.

It's estimated he saved the lives of 2.4million babies in his lifetime.

The recent death of the world's most prolific blood and plasma donor has sparked an outpouring of tributes. Pictured is James Harrison with two of the millions of babies he saved

James Harrison OAM donated more than 1100 times during his lifetime

The great-grandfather has been remembered as a humanitarian at heart and for his sense of humour.

'As an anti-D recipient myself, he has left behind a family that may not have existed without his precious donation,' his daughter Tracey Mellowship said.

'He was also very proud to have saved so many lives without any cost or pain.

'It made him happy to hear about the many families like ours who existed because of his kindness.

'He always said it does not hurt, and the life you save could be your own.'

Lifeblood paid tribute to his lifelong generosity that captured many hearts worldwide.

'It was James' belief that his donations were no more important than any other donors', and that everyone can be special in the same way that he was,' executive officer Stephen Cornelissen said.

'James extended his arm to help others and babies he would never know a remarkable 1173 times and expected nothing in return.

James Harrison died peacefully in his sleep at Peninsula Village Nursing Home on the NSW Central Coast last month

He began donating plasma at age 18 and continued until he was 81

'He continued to donate even in his darkest days, after the passing of his wife Barbara, who was also a blood donor, and helped inspire his career as a lifesaver.

'He leaves behind an incredible legacy, and it was his hope that one day, someone in Australia would beat his donation record.'

In his final years, Mr Harrison had really wanted for someone to beat his world record of donations.

'I'm not special and I hope that this is a record that people will beat,' he told Lifeblood.

James Harrison extended his arm to help others and babies he would never know a remarkable 1173 times and expected nothing in return.

It's also hoped that Mr Harrison's legacy will continue long after his passing.

LifeBlood has teamed up with researchers to create what has been dubbed 'James in a Jar'.

Using the blood of Mr Harrison and and other donors, the team has recreated and grown his antibody in the lab in the hope it will one day help prevent Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn in pregnant women worldwide.
Russian commentators today derided the size and ability of the British Army after Sir Keir Starmer pledged to put 'boots on the ground and planes in the air' to help uphold a potential truce in the Ukraine War.

Russian state TV anchor Dmitry Kiselev reflected on the European 'idea of sending troops to Ukraine' as a potential security guarantee, jibing: 'But what troops? You could fit the whole British army into Wembley stadium and you'd still have room for some of the French.'

Russian MP Vyacheslav Nikonov also laid into Europe's capabilities following a unified display from leaders in London over the weekend to discuss a road ahead towards a lasting peace.

'Europe may talk big about giving Ukraine money and weapons but they don't have that much money or produce weapons, and Americans can turn the taps off and stop supplying Ukraine with arms,' he told in Komsomolyskaya Pravda.

'The Western system is crashing like a house of cards.'

The comments followed Zelensky's disastrous meeting with Donald Trump in Washington on Friday, where they were expected to sign a critical minerals deal.

The meeting concluded with a public spat over Ukrainian 'gratitude' for U.S. aid and Trump telling Zelenskyy he was 'gambling with World War Three', with Kyiv seeking security guarantees before committing to any peace deal.

The Russian daily Nezavisimaya Gazeta similarly assessed that, 'the West is no longer united in its support for Ukraine ... America's allies have found themselves in a difficult position'.

'They may have to take upon themselves fully the support of Ukraine for which it appears they are not ready.'

The Kommersant national newspaper noted in its coverage the comments of Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who assessed that, 'America's new foreign policy configurations are largely aligned with Russia's'.

British soldiers practice an assault on February 17, 2025 in Smardan, Romania

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks during a press conference at a summit at Lancaster House on March 2, 2025 in London, England

Russian servicemen march on Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in central Moscow on May 9, 2024

Political scientist Dmitry Drobnitsky meanwhile assessed in Komsomolyskaya Pravda that Russia should 'think' on how to 'exploit' the U.S. apparent volte face on foreign policy.

'Trump's position is: If you want to fight Russia then do it yourselves,' he wrote.

'I think a way will be found to restore US-Russian relations without restoring piece in Ukraine.

'Trump is not our friend. But he is the enemy of our enemies.'

Russian MP Sergey Mironov suggested Russia could even provide security guarantees to Europe 'if the US withdraws from NATO'.

The disturbing new outlook emerged after Donald Trump and his Vice President, JD Vance, clashed with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Washington on Friday.

Zelenskyy was expected to sign a critical minerals deal that would secure long-term U.S. investment in Ukraine in return for a hefty share of its natural resources.

But Trump and Vance berated Zelenskyy in front of reporters at the White House, heightening fears he intends to force Kyiv into a peace deal that gives Russian President Vladimir Putin what he wants.

Matthew Chance, CNN's chief global affairs correspondent, assessed that there was 'renewed optimism in Moscow' that the spat could mean 'difficult negotiations to end the war in Ukraine will now take a back seat to a raft of potentially lucrative US-Russia economic deals already being tabled behind closed doors'.

Matthias Warnig, a close Putin ally and ex-Stasi officer, has already been touting a revival of Russia's Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Europe with US backing, the FT reports.

Zelenskyy has meanwhile sought 'security guarantee' assurances from the U.S. as part of the deal in an effort to ensure that Russia does not try to reopen the conflict at a later date.

The Ukrainian leader has already warned Trump of Russia's feigned assurances of peace, citing 25 occasions where he said the Kremlin has violated ceasefires since 2014.

Russian President Vladimir Putin holds his annual end-of-year press conference in Moscow on December 19, 2024

A Royal Marine Commando Mortar team operating from a Viking, Norway, 19 Feb 2025

Front row, left to right: Finland's President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Poland's PM Donald Tusk. Centre row from left: Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez, Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Antonio Costa, Canada's PM Justin Trudeau and Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan. Back row from left: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, Netherlands PM Dick Schoof, Sweden's PM Ulf Kristersson. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Norway's PM Jonas Gahr Store, Czech Republic's PM Petr Fiala, Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni and Turkey's foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Why hasn't Ukraine signed the mineral deal? Ukraine's Zelenskyy travelled to Washington on February 28 to sign a critical mineral deal with the U.S. The deal, originally drafted by Zelenskyy in autumn 2024, weeks before the U.S. election, could see the U.S. receive a large share of Ukraine's mineral wealth as payment for aid since the invasion. For Ukraine, the hope was that such a deal would help rebuild Ukraine and ensure continued U.S. support. But Zelenskyy has also sought sustainable 'security guarantees' that would keep Ukraine strong and deter the reopening of the conflict at a later date. The Ukrainian leader has already warned Trump of Russia's feigned assurances of peace, citing 25 occasions where the Kremlin has violated ceasefires since 2014. Cautious onlookers also warn that 'appeasement' could signal to belligerent parties globally that they can take territory without lasting consequences, setting a dangerous precedent for security around the world. Advertisement

European leaders have also tried to push for a sustainable, long-term peace deal, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeking a U.S. 'backstop' to deter Russian aggression.

Russia has tried to push for a more hasty peace deal. Peskov said today that someone needed to force Zelenskyy to make peace in light of Friday's clash in Washington.

'What happened at the White House on Friday, of course, demonstrated how difficult it will be to reach a settlement trajectory around Ukraine,' he said.

'The Kyiv regime and Zelenskyy do not want peace. They want the war to continue.'

'It is very important that someone forces Zelenskiy himself to change his position,' Peskov said. 'Someone has to make Zelenskiy want peace. If the Europeans can do it, they should be honoured and praised.'

He added that 'the collective West has partially begun to lose its collectivity, and a fragmentation of the collective West has begun'.

Despite uncertainty around the direction of U.S. foreign policy, European allies met in London over the weekend in a show of unity to discuss the situation in Ukraine, precipitating Zelenskyy saying he was 'ready to sign' the mineral deal.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer concluded Sunday's talks with a four-point plan to work with Ukraine to end the war and defend the country against future Russian aggression.

Britain and France will work on a peace plan and mediate between Zelenskyy and Trump, potentially with other partners, to 'stop the fighting', Starmer told the BBC.

Starmer reiterated the need for a U.S. backstop to hold up Europe's commitment, as 'it would not be a guarantee without it; it would not be a deterrent without it'.

Firefighters continue to extinguish the fire on the fifth floor of a residential building following the Russian Shahed drone attack on Kharkiv, Ukraine on March 2

Ukrainian servicemen from the 24th Mechanised Brigade conduct a field training exercise in an undisclosed location in the Donetsk region, on February 16, 2025

France today said that a plan for a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine would test Moscow's commitment to ending the war.

French President Emmanuel Macron said after the London talks that France and Britain were proposing a one-month truce in Ukraine 'in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure' although not, initially at least, covering ground fighting.

Such a move 'would allow to prove the good will of (Russian President) Vladimir Putin if he commits to a truce,' French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told France Inter radio.

'And it's then that real peace negotiations would start. We want a solid peace and a durable peace,' he added.

In an initial phase it is 'a way of verifying that Russia is willing to end this war,' Barrot said, emphasising that no withdrawal of Russian troops on the ground was envisaged during the truce.
A jailed Iraqi drug dealer has escaped deportation after he was deemed too 'Westernised' to go back.

The convicted criminal sentenced to five years and four months behind bars for dealing cocaine at his crown court trial in 2015.

He had unsuccessfully tried to claim asylum in 2010 - nine years after entering Britain - but had been granted indefinite leave to remain.

The Immigration and Asylum Chamber at the Upper Tribunal in London was told the unnamed Iraqi had now been in the UK for 24 years

The Home Office applied to to deport him following his release from jail but the asylum court ruled he is eligible to remain in Britain.

It comes after a judge argued he would be 'viewed with suspicion' if he returned to Iraq and 'face persecution because he would be viewed as Westernised'.

The man, who was also granted anonymity, has a young British citizen daughter.

The Immigration and Asylum Chamber at the Upper Tribunal in London (pictured) was told the unnamed Iraqi arrived in the UK in 2001

Attempts have been made by the Home Office to deport the Iraqi following the drug conviction (file image)

Then-Home Secretary Theresa May tried to deport the Iraqi upon his conviction.

'The [Home Secretary] notified him of her intention to deport him, his human rights' claim was refused, and he became the subject of a signed deportation order in February 2018,' the tribunal heard

'He appealed but was ultimately unsuccessful and became appeal rights exhausted in December 2019.'

The man applied for a European Economic Area residence card - which allow non-EU persons to live and work in the UK - as he was the partner of a Hungarian woman who he had a daughter with in 2014.

But the application was refused on technical grounds because he didn't have a passport.

From then on he was locked in a complicated and lengthy legal battle as he tried to fight to remain in the UK.

'By letter of 9 June 2023 the [Iraqi] made representations in support of his application to revoke the deportation order made against him,' the tribunal heard.

'Submissions were made under Article 8 [of the European Convention on Human Rights].

A judge argued the man would be 'viewed with suspicion' if he returned to Iraq and 'face persecution because he would be viewed as Westernised'. Pictured: Baghdad, Iraq

'It was also said that [his] return to Iraq was not feasible and that he possessed several 'aggravating factors' including a 22 year absence, returning as a single lone male and failed asylum seeker, without documentation and with a Westernised profile which taken collectively demonstrated that [he] had 'a much higher likelihood of being targeted and persecuted should he be forced to return to Iraq'.'

The Iraqi and his lawyers have argued he is too 'Westernised' to return to Iraq and people in the Middle East country would be suspicious of him.

'It was said that as a failed asylum seeker, [he] would be arrested under the criminal code, he would be viewed with suspicion returning as a single man without any family support or anyone to vouch for him and he would not be able to access health care, accommodation or employment.

'He would not be able to obtain documentation and he would face persecution because he would be viewed as 'Westernised'... because of his social and cultural attitudes and beliefs.'

During the legal process the Home Office accepted he 'demonstrated a real risk of being subjected to unlawful killing, torture, inhuman or degrading treatment should he be deported'.

One issue that was debated whether the Iraqi remained a 'danger to the community' in the UK.

At a previous hearing, a judge ruled he was not.

'[The judge] considered however that the [Iraqi] had not engaged in any further reprehensible conduct and had shown himself to be a responsible family man who had put aside his criminal past.

'He had now been out of prison for over five years and there was confidence that he would shy away from criminality and focus on enjoying his family life with his partner and child.'

At the latest hearing, Upper Tribunal Judge Anna-Rose Landes ruled the previous judge made mistakes in law relating to his 'Westernisation' and his status as a 'refugee'.

Judge Landes said a new hearing must take place to determine whether the Iraqi is entitled to asylum status or 'humanitarian protection' under UK law.

Both forms of protection are similar and offer permission to stay in the UK, however asylum seekers who do not meet the criteria for refugee status can be considered for humanitarian protection.

Judge Landes said 'if the Iraqi is not a refugee then he would qualify for humanitarian protection'.

The judge also found he successfully 'rebutted the presumption that he constitutes a danger to the community'.

A new hearing will take place in the future.

The news comes after Sir Keir Starmer last month threw his weight behind the deportation of an Albanian migrant who tried to stay in the UK due to his son not liking foreign chicken nuggets.

The Prime Minister responded to a backlash when it emerged an Albanian criminal was allowed to remain in Britain in part because his son has 'distaste' for the food.

A ruling from an immigration tribunal stated that it would be 'unduly harsh' for the 10-year-old boy to be forced to move back with his father due to his sensory issues with different types of food.

Sir Keir supported an appeal against the move that has been launched by his Labour Government's Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.

His official spokesman said he 'absolutely supported' Ms Cooper's intervention against the suggestion it would be 'unduly harsh' for the youngster to go to Albania with his father due to his sensitivity about food.

The tribunal heard how the boy had a distaste for 'the type of chicken nuggets that are available abroad'.

In a separate case the previous month, a failed asylum seeker won the right to stay in the UK for the sake of his wife's children by another man.

Ramazan Morina, 27, successfully appealed under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) to stop Britain sending him back to Albania.

Mr Morina had smuggled himself into Britain when he was 16, unsuccessfully claiming asylum first in 2014 and again five years later.

But he remained in Britain and in 2021 married Soraia Dias, a Portuguese national also living here. She has two children from her marriage to a Romanian which had broken down over domestic abuse claims.

The Home Office tried to deport Mr Morina back to Albania, saying he was living here unlawfully.

But after instructing solicitors specialising in immigration, he launched an appeal based on the right of respect for private and family life contained in the ECHR.

He won the claim after independent social worker Laurence Chester said he had a 'very close bond' with Ms Dias's children.
Europe would need to dramatically increase its nuclear weapons stockpile should the US withdraw from NATO and cease to provide security guarantees to the continent in the face of threats from Russia, experts have warned.

Maximilian Terhalle, a former Senior Adviser for strategic affairs to Britain's Ministry of Defence and Visiting Professor at the Grand Strategy Programme of King's College London told The Telegraph: 'We need to be on par with Russia's 1,550 strategic warheads.

'Otherwise we will not strategically influence what is going on in Putin's mind, which is critical for deterrence.'

Russia has more than 5,000 nuclear warheads at its disposal, with 1,550 strategic warheads deployed in line with the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) - though Putin suspended Moscow's participation in 2023.

By contrast, Britain and France - the only nuclear armed powers in Europe - have a shared total of just over 500 warheads.

Recognising Europe's vulnerability in the event of a US withdrawal from NATO, German Chancellor-elect Friedrich Merz declared last month he would explore the possibility of forming a nuclear triumvirate with Britain and France.

Merz, who is currently trying to get the outgoing Bundestag to vote through a constitutional change that would allow Germany to dramatically boost defence spending, said: 'We have to talk to the British and French whether their nuclear protection could also be extended to us.

'(This is) an issue that the French government has repeatedly raised with the German government... We must talk to each other about what that could look like.'

It comes as NATO's former Supreme Allied Commander in Europe said the alliance could be in its 'last days' and predicted that European members may come together to form a new security pact.

Admiral James Stavridis, who served as the NATO's Europe commander from 2009-2013, told CNN: 'We could see the end of NATO and the start of what might be called the European Treaty Organisation, ETO.'

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Russia test-launches one of its new Sarmat nuclear missiles, which it claims can carry up to 15 warheads, strike any country on earth, and cannot be stopped by current defences

This image taken with a slow shutter speed on Oct. 2, 2019, and provided by the U.S. Air Force shows an unarmed Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile test launch at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California

Friedrich Merz (R), German chancellor-in-waiting and leader of Christian Democratic Union party (CDU), has called on Europe to prepare for a future without US security support in the face of Russian aggression in Ukraine (Putin left)

US President Donald Trump has not yet spoken on the possibility of an American withdrawal from NATO, though former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton admitted last month that such a scenario is 'highly probable'.

The Trump administration has however made it clear that European members of the transatlantic security bloc must shoulder the responsibility for their own security and that of Ukraine as the White House focuses on a showdown with China.

NATO's nuclear deterrence is heavily reliant on the US, which has the second largest stockpile of nukes at around 5,200 to Russia's 5,800 - though more a thousand of them are thought to be retired and awaiting disarmament.

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Several hundred of these warheads are deployed in countries in Europe - primarily at locations in Germany, Italy and the Netherlands, to serve as a deterrent for the continent.

NATO conducts a major nuclear exercise every year to ensure its readiness and to deter any would-be aggressor - primarily Russia.

However, while European members of the alliance contribute aircraft for use in a nuclear deployment scenario, Washington retains ultimate control over the use of these weapons.

Any suggestion that the US could withdraw support from NATO is therefore a serious cause for concern for European defence chiefs, who could see their nuclear capabilities completely diminished.

The UK has some 225 warheads at its disposal, all of which are carried on nuclear Vanguard submarines - but only 40 are ready to deploy at any one time.

France has a slightly larger nuclear arsenal with 290 warheads, most of which are also submarine-based, in addition to around 50 cruise missiles that can be deployed by French bomber aircraft.

This has led some, including Germany's finance minister, to propose the two countries could pool their resources to create a new 'nuclear umbrella' over Europe.

Currently, the UK and France both operate their nuclear programmes independently of NATO and only have a few dozen weapons that could be stationed or operated by foreign air forces.

But Merz is keen to explore the possibility of a European nuclear pact between the UK, France and Germany.

It is one of several moves the German Chancellor-in-waiting is likely to take as he seeks to ensure Europe is able to stand alone and face threats from the East without US support.

'My absolute priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that, step by step, we can really achieve independence from the USA,' Merz said in the wake of the CDU's election victory late last month.

'I never thought I would have to say something like this on a television programme.

'But after Donald Trump's statements last week at the latest, it is clear that the Americans, at least this part of the Americans, this administration, are largely indifferent to the fate of Europe.'

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Russian road-launched nuclear missiles are paraded through the streets of Moscow during May 9 Victory Day parade, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War Two

Yars is the most-modern ICBM currently in use by Russia's strategic nuclear forces, and is capable of carrying four warheads each of which explodes with the force of half a million tons of TNT

The mushroom cloud from the Soviet Union's Tsar Bomba - the largest nuclear weapon ever tested

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Merz's push to reinforce European security in preparation for a decoupling with the US is particularly notable, given the soon-to-be chancellor's reputation as a staunch trans-atlanticist.

The leader of Germany's conservative CDU/CSU alliance previously headed up German lobbying firm Atlantik-Brucke that advocates for greater German-American ties, and also sat on the board of US investment giant BlackRock.

In the wake of Trump's brutal admonishing of Zelensky as a 'dictator without elections' in a vile tirade published on his Truth Social platform last month, Merz told a rally ahead of German elections that Europe needed to expect the 'autocratic behaviour' in the White House could endure.

'Our response can only be that we must finally become resilient, capable of defence, and able to stand on our own feet in Europe,' he concluded.

In a separate interview, he voiced concern over the very future of NATO.

'I am very curious to see how we are heading toward the NATO summit at the end of June - whether we will still be talking about NATO in its current form or whether we will have to establish an independent European defence capability much more quickly.'

As Merz prepares for his term in office, outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also affirmed Germany's commitment to bolstering European security - and continuing to support Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Speaking yesterday at a summit for Zelensky and other European leaders in London hosted by British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, Scholz said: '(Ukraine) is the country under attack, the victim of great aggression. This is the undeniable truth for everyone. And, of course, it also means that we must and will act accordingly.

'For us, it is also clear that this means we must support Ukraine both financially and militarily. International and transatlantic support for Ukraine remains crucial for the security of the country and of Europe.'

Royal Navy personnel in the control room on HMS Vigilant, submarine on January 20, 2016 in Rhu, Scotland. HMS Vigilant is one of the UK's fleet of four Vanguard class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France's President Emmanuel Macron hold a meeting during a summit at Lancaster House on March 2, 2025 in London

Scholz's statement came as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed she would present a plan to 'rearm Europe' to bolster the bloc's security later this week.

'We all have understood that after a long time of under investment, it is now of utmost importance to step up the defence investment for a prolonged period of time. It's for the security of the European Union,' she said.

Von der Leyen added that the plan could for instance help develop advanced air shields.

As for the future of war-torn Ukraine, von der Leyen said 'security guarantees are of utmost importance.

'We have to put Ukraine in a position of strength, so that it has the means to fortify itself and to protect itself,' she said.

'It's basically turning Ukraine into a steel porcupine that is indigestible for potential invaders.'

The renewed security commitments saw European defence shares skyrocket this morning.

Germany's Rheinmetall jumped 18 per cent, Britain's BAE Systems increased 14 per cent in London and Italy's Leonardo enjoyed a 15 per cent boost.
CCTV footage captured the moment a thug casually went for a drink at the pub after brutally murdering his ex-wife.

Mark Donovan, 39, inflicted 70 separate injuries on Elise Mason, 37, in a sustained attack at the home they once shared in Chelmsford, Essex on April 25, 2023.

A trial heard how he strangled the beloved mum-of-two and battered her with a lamp because he could 'never accept that she had moved on from their relationship.'

After killing Elise, Donovan can be seen on camera visiting his local pub The Blue Lion for a drink, before discarding Elise's phone in one of the venue's toilets.

CCTV footage shows him enjoying a drink - before he leaves and heads to two separate massage parlours.

Donovan even ordered himself a Chinese takeaway before finally heading to Ilford Police Station, where he told officers he had done 'the worst thing'.

He was still eating his meal when he entered the police station - and is captured on CCTV eating noodles while he speaks to an officer.

On Friday (February 28), a jury at Chelmsford Crown Court found him guilty of murder. He will be sentenced on Wednesday (March 5).

Mark Donovan, 39, inflicted 70 separate injuries on Elise Mason, 37, in a sustained attack at the home they once shared in Chelmsford, Essex on April 25, 2023

The trial heard how mother-of-two Elise Mason, 37 (pictured) was murdered by Donovan because he could 'never accept that she had moved on from their relationship'

After the frenzied attack, Donovan took a leisurely stroll down the street to his local pub

Speaking in 2023, Elise's mum said: 'I have not only lost my daughter, but I have lost my best friend too.

'Elise was a fantastic mother to her children and she was loved by everybody. Please respect our privacy at this time.'

The trial heard how the couple had been teenage friends before beginning a romance in 2010 and living together until their relationship fell apart in 2022.

Ms Mason had acted as a carer to Donovan who was partially sighted, epileptic and a type one diabetic, and had ensured he took his medication, jurors were told.

Prosecutor Andrew Jackson KC said Mr Donovan had 'bombarded' her with 'manipulative' texts and phone calls to try and win her back before her death.

Mr Jackson said the injuries to her body had been caused by a fist and a 'blood-stained table lamp that was found close to her body'.

During the trial, Donovan denied murder and claimed he had been acting in self-defence after being emotionally abused and threatened with a knife by Ms Mason on the day of his attack.

Officers later found her heavily bloodstained body lying on a floor under a blanket near the front door of Donovan's home on Rothmans Avenue in Great Baddow.

Upon entering the Blue Lion pub, Donovan heads to the toilet to discard his ex-wife's phone

Mark Donovan (pictured) then heads to the bar to order himself a drink - seemingly oblivious to the crime he has just committed

The 39-year-old then sits down at a table by the bar and nurses his drink - before heading off to visit two massage parlours and buy some noodles

Elise had more than 70 injuries to her face, head, neck, upper body, arms and legs, and blood spots were found on the nearby walls and furniture.

Prosecutors said a love letter from her new boyfriend was found next to her body, suggesting that Donovan had flown into a 'jealous' rage after finding it.

Donovan's defence team argued he had a personality disorder and was therefore only guilty of manslaughter due to diminished responsibility.

But jurors took under three hours of deliberation to find him unanimously guilty of murder after a three-week trial at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Donovan had refused to enter the dock while the judge was summing up the case and was in prison when the verdict was returned.

Judge Christopher Morgan adjourned sentencing until Wednesday, saying he wanted to give Donovan a chance to attend court again.

After Donovan's trial, Detective Inspector James Holmes said: 'I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to Elise's family and in particular her two children, who have tragically been left without their mother because of Donovan's destructive and utterly heartless actions.

'I hope that the jury's verdict will bring some closure for them, and they can move on with their lives to some degree.

After his grand tour of the town, killer Donovan finally made his way to Ilford Police Station to hand himself in, telling officers he had done 'the worst thing'

Donovan was then arrested by officers, and led away to the cells. After being found guilty of murder by a jury at Chelmsford Crown Court on February 28, he will be sentenced on Wednesday

'Mark Donovan is clearly a dangerous, selfish and manipulative man.

'Never content with accepting responsibility for the horrific attack he carried out against Elise, he instead decided to tell officers, medical professionals, and a jury a series of awful lies about his victim in a bid to shift the blame onto her.

'Thankfully, due to the evidence we managed to gather, a jury saw through this despicable ploy.

'In reality, Donovan's warped and self-centred mind could never accept that Elise had moved on from their relationship.

'He killed her in a fit of rage, only handing himself in after enjoying a drink at a pub, a massage and a takeaway meal.

'That behaviour shows the kind of man he is. He can expect to spend the rest of his life where he belongs.'
A Cardiff University professor has suggested the Prince of Wales should be able to be able to speak better Welsh by now after 42 years preparing for the role.

Dr Dylan Foster Evans gave his assessment after the prince posted a video greeting in Welsh to Instagram on Saturday to mark St David's Day.

'Hello, on St David's Day we come together to celebrate Wales - its history, its culture, its incredible people,' William said to camera in the language.

'From its incredible landscapes to its language, Wales continues to inspire.

'Today we will celebrate everything magical about Wales.

'To all the people of Wales and everybody around the world - happy St David's Day.'

Speaking on the BBC Radio 4 Today programme Dr Evans, head of the school of Welsh at Cardiff University said many viewers would not be impressed.

'People say that he should be able to do a bit more than read for a few seconds from an autocue since Welsh does have an official status in Wales since 2011,' he remarked.

'Maybe we should expect quite a bit more.'

Prince William's recent video posted on Instagram to mark St David's Day was captioned: 'Happy St David's Day from The Prince of Wales'

When asked how the Prince of Wales did, Dr Dylan Foster Evans, head of the school of Welsh at Cardiff University, said: 'He was quite understandable and clear but he has a little way to go I think.'

In 2024 William revealed he was using popular language app Duolingo to help him learn Welsh unlike his father who spent nine weeks at Aberystwyth University learning Welsh language and history before his investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969.

He was taught by the Welsh nationalist Dr Tedi Millward and went on to give a number of speeches in Welsh.

When asked what the prince needs to work on Dr Foster Evans said: 'His pronunciation is a little faulty.'

He continued: 'He gets most things right but practice will do him a great deal of good.

'You need to use the language in a real world situation with real people to really get to grips with it.'

According to the latest government data there were an estimated 851,700 Welsh speakers living in Wales last year.

Around 27 per cent of people aged three years and over were able to speak Welsh which is the lowest percentage recorded in more than eight years.

William is seen in the clip wearing a daffodil, the national flower of Wales, and footage of his and Kate's visit to Pontypridd also features.

In 2024 William revealed he was using popular language app Duolingo to help him learn Welsh

The prince has been known to greet people with a few words of Welsh when in the country although he has not spoken full sentences in public before.

But Dr Foster Evans conceded that the prince had made an effort.

'He was quite understandable and clear but he has a little way to go I think,' he added. 'It's not perfect but it's a start.'

'I think many people were impressed and pleased to hear William speaking Welsh.

'Most people in Wales don't speak Welsh and it's not easy to broadcast in your second language.

The prince's ability to speak Welsh has prompted reactions across social media.

One X user said: 'Given that he's always known he'd be the Prince of Wales one day, William's Welsh really should be better. It's not as if his family couldn't afford private Welsh lessons.'

Another user disputed this, saying: 'He did okay in terms of attempting a speech in Welsh for the first time in public.

'Him actually showing some willingness to learn the language is long overdue.'

In July last year, the couple was looking for a new Assistant Private Secretary, who is based in London.

However, the job specification did highlight that the royal couple are looking for an assistant private secretary who can ideally speak fluent Welsh.

It concluded: 'Conversational Welsh is essential, and fluent Welsh, both written and spoken, is desirable.'
Kenyan police have arrested a prime suspect in the murder of a British businessman as they continue their hunt for two accomplices.

The suspect, who was arrested Sunday in Mombasa, is said to have been hiding in the town since the murder of Scott Campbell, 58, last month.

Police apprehended the suspect, flushing him out of his hideout before transporting him to Nairobi, where he is expected to appear at Milimani Court today as police seek an extension to detain him while investigations continue.

Authorities are now pursuing at least two more accomplices linked to Scott's kidnapping and murder, who are believed to be hiding in either Nairobi or Mombasa.

Homicide detectives have described Sunday's arrest as a major breakthrough in the investigation, however, the motive behind Scott's murder remains unclear.

Kenya's Director of Criminal Investigations, Mohamed Amin, confirmed the suspect's arrest, stating: 'We have a prime suspect in the murder of Scott. The hunt for more suspects is ongoing. We hope to get more suspects involved in this callous murder.'

Scott, who had been staying at a Nairobi hotel after travelling to the Kenyan capital to attend a conference, was last seen on February 16.

Around a week later he was found dead by herdsmen, stuffed into a sack of pineapples with his hands and legs bound, in a remote forest around a two-hour drive from the area.

Campbell Scott, 58, was in Kenya for a business conference before he was found dead last month

Campbell Scott's body was found in a forest more than 60 miles away from Nairobi

CCTV captured Campbell Scott with a mystery man, who became a person of interest, but has since been ruled out as a suspect

Police believe he was held captive for days in a house in the Pipeline area of Nairobi before being killed. His body was then transported to Makongo Forest in Makueni County, where it was discovered on February 22.

Authorities suspect the killers may have been after Scotts money but police are investigating whether they accessed his bank accounts before his murder.

A post-mortem examination conducted by Government Pathologist Dr. Richard Njoroge at a mortuary in Makueni last Thursday failed to determine the exact cause of death.

Though Scott had soft tissue injuries, officials deemed them too minor to be fatal. But local government officials had said the injuries sustained suggested Scott had been tortured before being killed.

This has led pathologists to collect samples for further tests at a government laboratory, prolonging the investigation.

Initially, police suspected that Scott had been strangled or hit with a blunt object, but forensic results have yet to confirm this.

In a recent twist in the mystery, however, Kenyan television reported Scott may not have been murdered.

NTV Tonight reported: Sources close to the investigation said that Scott may not have been murdered, but rather may have suffered complications after consuming a performance enhancing pill.

Campbell Scott was staying at the JW Marriott Hotel for a conference

Scott, born in Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland, worked for American credit scoring firm Fico and was based out of its London office

He may have developed these complications while at Pipeline Estate in Nairobi, the last location he was seen alive.

Toxicology tests are now being conducted, it is understood.

Scott, born in Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland, worked for American credit scoring firm Fico and was based out of its London office.

He was set to attend a conference at the JW Marriott Hotel and shortly after he arrived security camera footage captured him going to the nearby Havana Bar.

But, Kenyan press reported, he met a mystery man who became a person of interest to detectives. The following day he went back to the bar to meet him, and the mystery man booked a taxi.

Scott is then said to have entered the vehicle, and gone to the Pipeline estate with the man.

In a twist to the case, the taxi driver and a waiter who were arrested earlier have now been ruled out as suspects. Police now believe they were not involved in the murder and will instead be used as witnesses, according to The Star.

Scotts body was finally identified at the Makueni County Referral Hospital on February 24, where it had been lying for two days.

His grieving family has been following the case closely as investigators work to uncover the full circumstances surrounding his death.
President Trump has launched his latest attack against Europe claiming that the United States should worry more about migrant rape gangs and drug lords than Vladimir Putin or 'end up like Europe'.

The President made the comment on his Truth Social media platform where he wrote: 'We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country - So that we dont end up like Europe!'

Trump's comment comes as Europe continues to feel the aftershocks of last week's war of words between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky which ended with Zelensky being booted out of the White House.

The continent is also coming to terms with the brutal reality that it might not be able to rely on America for its security anymore.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said yesterday that Europe needed to start doing the 'heavy lifting' with regards to Ukraine following the conclusion of a summit with other world leaders where they discussed increasing defence spending.

Defence spending, particularly within NATO, has been a thorn in the side of relations between Europe and the Trump presidency for years now.

While Trump has so far avoided actively calling for the US to exit from NATO, he has consistently painted it as a one-sided relationship.

On top of this one of his closest advisors, Elon Musk, has voiced his support for leaving the alliance in a series of posts on social media.

President Trump made the comment on his Truth Social media platform where he insisted that if America does not focus on these prioritises it will 'end up like Europe'

Speaking after yesterday's summit in London, the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the world was at a 'crossroads in history' and he wanted to forge a way forward that could be presented to the US

French President Emmanuel Macron was also at yesterday's summit. He is expected to play a key role in the 'coalition of the willing'

In his attack against Europe after Trump claimed that the United States should worry more about migrant rape gangs and drug lords than Vladimir Putin

Trump previously told reporters that he doubted the value of spending money on NATO - since the US was protecting NATO members but they were 'not protecting us' and has consistently called for the bloc to double its spending target.

During his first term Trump threatened to quit the alliance over his grievances about member's defence spending.

Since Trump returned to the White House, the war in Ukraine has represented another growing rift between America and its European allies.

Last week in an extraordinary meeting between the President and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office last week, the two leaders got into a heated argument which ended with Zelensky being booted out of the White House.

Tempers flared on all sides during the Oval Office showdown. Trump threatened to abandon Ukraine completely if Zelensky did not agree to his peace terms. He also accused Zelensky of not being grateful.

Zelensky held his own, even showing Trump photos he brought of the devastation to his country, and arguing he had thanked the American people.

The yelling match was unlike anything ever seen publicly in the Oval Office. And it played out on TV screens across the world.

'You're gambling with World War III,' Trump bellowed Zelensky at one point.

The President has since demanded a public apology from Zelensky.

Yesterday, European leaders and Canada gathered in London for a summit to discuss the conflict and how to respond to the 'brutal reality' of the US pulling back from military guarantees by ramping up defence spending.

Trump's comment follows an extraordinary meeting between the President and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office last week

Tempers flared on all sides during the Oval Office showdown. Trump threatened to abandon Ukraine completely if Zelensky did not agree to his peace terms. He also accused Zelensky of not being grateful

Zelensky with Sir Keir and Macron at the summit in London yesterday. Both leaders have already pledged to provide troops on the ground if necessary.

The summit was already planned before the on-camera slanging match with Trump and his vice president JD Vance.

Speaking after the summit, the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the world was at a 'crossroads in history' and he wanted to forge a way forward that could be presented to the US.

Positioning himself as a bridge to the White House, Sir Keir told a press conference that he still regarded America as a 'reliable ally'. 'We agree with the president on the urgent need for a durable peace... now we need to deliver together,' he said.

However, he stressed that any deal must have 'strong US backing' with 'every nation contributing in the best way it can'.

The comments came after European leaders spent hours trying to thrash out a strategy after the grim scenes in the Oval Office on Friday night.

After embracing Mr Zelensky on the steps of Lancaster House in London, the PM told him 'we are all with you' and urged the gathering to step up to a 'once in a generation moment'.

French President Emmanuel Macron and the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were present as Britain, France and Italy look set to take key roles in a 'coalition of the willing' to enforce any peace deal with Russia.

The UK and France have both already pledged to provide troops on the ground if necessary.

World leaders gather for a family photo at Sunday's summit in London

Zelensky shakes hands with the Italian PM Giorgia Meloni. Britain, France and Italy look set to take key roles in a 'coalition of the willing' to enforce any peace deal with Russia

But there still appear to be huge obstacles - not least that Russia has yet to agree to beginning talks with Ukraine, and the US envisages formal ceding of territory while many European states regard that as unacceptable.

In an attempt to mend fences with America, Zelensky stressed his gratitude for the US's assistance and indicated that he was prepared to sign Trump's mineral deal.

Meanwhile, there are also growing concerns amongst European nations that Trump could pull the US out of NATO.

Indeed, there is clear momentum within the White House towards an isolationist, 'America First' position and the president has repeatedly berated his fellow NATO allies for not increasing their defence spending quickly enough.

In December Trump said that the bloc would have to more than double its spending target of two per cent - a target which over a quarter of its members were on course to fail to meet.

And in February 2024 the President said he would encourage Russia to do 'whatever the hell they want' with any of the 32 NATO member states who failed to meet such ambitious defence spending targets.

Trump's advisor Elon Musk has outright called for the US to leave NATO in a post on X, formerly Twitter, over the weekend.

Gunther Eagleman, a political commentator with 1.3 million followers, who describes himself as a 'Proud America First MAGA Patriot', wrote 'It's time to leave NATO and the UN' in an X post on March 1.

That message was reposted by Musk, the leader of Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), who simply added 'I agree'.

Musk also today reposted a tweet by Republican congressman Thomas Massie, the representative for Kentucky's forth congressional district since 2012, which called NATO 'a Cold War relic that needs to be relegated to a talking kiosk at the Smithsonian'.
A British Army sergeant in the Welsh guards who raped a female colleague while they shared a bed after a night out has been jailed for ten years.

Sergeant Tauhakau Viavialevu and his colleague were stationed in Belize when he 'saw red' and he attacked her.

Sgt Viavialevu and the fellow soldier had been on a 'spontaneous' off-duty trip to the coastline whilst they were both stationed in the Caribbean country.

After a long drive, the pair went out and Sgt Viavialevu - of the the Welsh Guards - 'drank heavily' before they returned to the room he had booked which had just one double bed.

During the night Sgt Viavialevu began the assault by 'spooning' the victim, who tried to move away from him, before kissing her neck and removing her clothes before raping her.

The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said Sgt Viavialevu was 'just not listening' despite her asking him to stop repeatedly and she felt she had 'no chance' of escaping the abuse.

Bulford Military Court, Wilts, heard that the sergeant held her arms down during the attack to stop her moving away.

Sgt Viavialevu has now been jailed for 10 years.

Sergeant Tauhakau Viavialevu and his colleague were stationed in Belize when he 'saw red' and he attacked her

At Bulford Military Court, the disgraced soldier was also ordered to pay his victim 11,000.

Sgt Viavialevu had been found guilty of one count of rape and one count of sexual assault by penetration.

He had claimed nothing sexual happened between him and his victim.

Opening the case, prosecutor Colonel Jim Carmichael said the female soldier was not 'initially bothered' by sharing a bed with Sgt Viavialevu.

Col Carmichael said: '[The victim] and Sgt Viavialevu decided to take a trip around the coast of Belize.

'They went to a bar, Sgt Viavialevu drank heavily and became intoxicated, she did not have much to drink.

'Sgt Viavialevu had booked a room with one double bed, this did not bother her initially.

'in the early hours she was lying in bed and Sgt Viavialevu began spooning her, she tried to ignore him by lying on her front.'

At Bulford Military Court, the disgraced soldier was also ordered to pay his victim 11,000

He continued: 'She told him she was not in the mood, Sgt Viavialevu then put his hands inside her underwear.

'She tried to keep her legs closed but Sgt Viavialevu forced her legs open and penetrated her with his fingers.

'She repeatedly told him to stop, Sgt Viavialevu then pulled off her shorts, he was too strong, [the victim] did not want to do this.

'He pulled his own boxer shorts down and pushed his penis in her vagina, he held her arms down.'

Col Carmichael told the court the next day Sgt Viavialevu acted as if nothing had happened and the pair continued with their trip, in separate rooms, before returning to base.

The soldier initially tried to continue with her work as normal but a few months later decided to report the matter after Sgt Viavialevu slapped her on the bottom.

She said she felt 'angry' at not being able to defend herself and that Sgt Viavialevu seemed like a 'different person' during the assault in a video interview shown to the court martial.

In the police interview, she said: 'I just thought 'there is nothing I can do'. I kept saying 'can you stop', he was just not listening to me.

'I felt hopeless, I knew I would have no chance against him.

'I was angry at myself because I couldn't defend myself, I was angry at him because this wasn't the person I thought I knew.

'It was like he'd seen red, his eyes didn't look the same, I felt like I was looking at a different person.'
READ MORE: Cricket great David Warner takes aim at Prime Minister Anthony Albanese over beer tax freeze

Anthony Albanese could be days away from calling a federal election, senior government sources believe.

Speculation is mounting that the Prime Minister will make the trip to the Governor General either next Sunday or Monday straight after this weekend's state election in Western Australia.

April 12 remains the most likely date Australians will go to the polls, according to political pundits.

Sources revealed that this week's planned expenditure review committee meetings had been cancelled and that a Budget earmarked to be handed down on March 25 has also been scrapped, sparking speculation that an election was imminent.

One government insider told news.com.au that they believed the budget process was 'over', confirming experts' suspicions the Labor government won't deliver a fourth budget before the election, which must be held on or before May 17.

The source sees it likely the Labor will opt to release a shorter budget 'statement' or update in place of the full Budget.

The Treasurer's office told the media outlet that they didn't need this week's scheduled meetings but denied the cancellation was confirmation that the March 25 Budget had been officially scrapped.

Finance Minister Katy Gallagher appeared to be unaware that the budget she's planning to help hand down in three weeks time had been ditched.

Insiders believe that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured with his fiancee) will call an election within days

April 12 has already been touted as the date Aussies return to the polling booths (pictured in 2022)

'That's the decision that was taken last year, we've scheduled it,' she told the ABC.

'As to when the PM might call an election, that's entirely a matter for him. The Treasurer and I do our jobs, which is to make sure we've got the books in order and all of those decisions have been taken.'

It comes after media outlets across Australia received an alert from the prime minister's office for registrations to join Mr Albanese's campaign plane.

The plane begins operations once an election date has been set and campaigning officially begins.

The email has led many to believe the election will be called imminently.

The PM's staff also abandoned Canberra in droves this week to relocate Labor headquarters in Sydney to prepare for the election campaign.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has repeatedly warned in recent weeks that the Prime Minister was 'running scared' and might use an early election to avoid handing down a budget.

'If he's running to an early election to get away from delivering a budget, you know that he's hiding the numbers,' he said.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton (left) has previously hinted that the PM might call an early election to avoid handing down a budget on March 25

'You know that he has no good story to tell about the achievements of this Government over the last three years.

On Sunday night, Mr Albanese and fiancee Jodie Haydon appeared on 60 Minutes to discuss matters life, love and politics.

The PM faced a grilling from Karl Stefanovic over the purchase of his $4.3million clifftop mansion among other topics.

Mr Albanese told the show he was hopeful of winning a second term in office, saying he 'loves his job'.

'I won't die wondering,' he said.

'I'm determined to win.'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (pictured on Monday) remains tight-lipped about the election date

On Monday, the prime minister invited the press into the cabinet meeting in Canberra to witness a speech relating to Medicare.

Mr Albanese sprayed Mr Dutton's record on Medicare, following his own announcements boosting funding to the service.

The PM said Mr Dutton 'supported abolishing bulk billing' when he was Health Minister.
Donald Trump's explosive showdown with Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday threatened to derail all progress towards a vital minerals deal viewed as a potential way out of the three-year conflict.

For Zelensky, the lingering issue is the lack of security guarantees that Ukraine and its European allies say are essential to ensuring Russia does not break the terms of a possible peace deal.

For Trump, Kyiv is not in a position to negotiate and should accept the terms of the deal on the table - a commitment to long-term investment in Ukraine by which the U.S. will have the right to extract rare natural resources.

Europe tried desperately to mediate with crisis talks in London on Sunday, allies joining together to help find a road back to diplomacy by assuring Ukraine of Europe's commitment to its security and placating American grievances.

But many questions remain around the future shape of a ceasefire deal, the promise of peace and the threat posed to Ukraine and wider Europe by a resurgent Russia.

MailOnline addresses the key issues ahead of Zelensky's anticipated return to the White House.

US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, February 28, 2025

European leaders meet at Lancaster House in London, Britain, March 2, 2025

Will Zelensky quit after White House row?

Volodymyr Zelensky suggested he was willing to step down as president if it ensured a lasting peace in Ukraine on February 23.

When pressed at a news conference, he said he was willing to give up the role in exchange for NATO membership for his country.

But Trump has already hinted that NATO membership is off the table for Ukraine, rendering the offer toothless.

'NATO  you can forget about,' he said. 'I think that's probably the reason the whole thing started.'

Still, Republicans like US senator Lindsay Graham have continued to pile pressure on Zelensky to step down following the White House bust-up.

But Zelensky has made it clear he only answers to his people.

'I can give [Lindsay Graham] citizenship of Ukraine and he will become a citizen of our country,' he told Sky News.

'And then his voice will start to gain weight, and I will hear him as a citizen of Ukraine on the topic of who must be the president.

'The president of Ukraine will have to be chosen not in Lindsay Graham's home but in Ukraine.'

Mike Johnson, the Republican Speaker of the House of Representatives, echoed Graham's comment, telling NBC News on Sunday that Zelensky 'needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude or someone else needs to lead the country'.

Zelensky reiterated his offer to step down in exchange for NATO membership for Ukraine on Sunday, but warned: 'If they replace me, given what is going on, given the support, simply replacing me will not be simple.'

'It's not enough to just hold an election,' he said. 'You need to also not let me run. This will be a bit more difficult. Looks like you will have to negotiate with me. And I said that I am exchanging for NATO. Then I fulfilled my mission.'

Ukrainians ride a tank in the Kharkiv region, eastern Ukraine, 10 February 2025, amid the ongoing Russian invasion

Can Ukraine survive without U.S. support?

Zelensky, while vying for more U.S. support, has suggested that Ukraine could last around six months without Washington's backing.

With the current aid arrangement, the ISW estimates it would take Russian forces more than 83 years to capture the remaining 80% of the country, assuming they can sustain massive personnel losses indefinitely.

Allied support has made a huge difference, then.

But the U.S. is not responsible for all aid. While it is the largest single donor, more than 50 allies and partner countries have provided security assurances to Ukraine since the 2022 invasion.

As of December 31, 2024, Europe had contributed 132.3bn euros in allocated aid, versus 114.2bn given by the U.S.

Europe's contributions are also expected to keep flowing; 115.1bn remained to be allocated from Europe, with just 4.84bn from the U.S.

The key difference is in what the U.S. is able to supply. Britain has been able to match the U.S. with long-range missiles, able to hit deep into Russian territory. And the Challenger 2 tank has been one of the most reliable fixtures on the battlefield.

But American air defences - and their sheer volume - are critical to fending off Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and disrupting utilities.

Long range ATACMS missiles can also 'make a significant difference in the war', according to Olga Tokariuk, Academy Associate, Ukraine Forum, Russia and Eurasia Programme.

'These will improve Ukraines capability to threaten and destroy Russian military targets in occupied Crimea, forcing Russia to withdraw its equipment and enhancing Black Sea security,' she wrote last year.

Dr Kenton White told MailOnline: 'Ukraine would struggle without US support as the US has the greater capacity for the manufacture and supply of weapons, ammunition and all of the supporting military equipment and infrastructure required to prosecute a modern war.

'A US backstop is urgent because Western Europe has been complacent about its own defence, and its ability to produce the military infrastructure necessary for fighting a war.

'Even within NATO there is no flexibility for anything other than short term, low intensity conflicts. NATO is not war-ready at all.'

Europe may also now look to harness some 210bn euros in frozen Russian assets to continue the flow of aid - equivalent to nearly the total of all aid allocated so far by Europe and the U.S. since January 2022.

Volodymyr Zelensky, Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron embrace after holding a meeting during a summit at Lancaster House in central London, Britain March 2, 2025

Could Europe defend itself without U.S. support if Russia attacked?

The U.S. has maintained a significant presence in Europe since the end of World War II, and helped create NATO in 1949 to help challenge the perceived threat from the USSR.

As of last year, the U.S. had around 65,000 active-duty soldiers stationed permanently across the continent. The FT last month cited 90,000 currently stationed in Europe.

A withdrawal of troops would significantly hamper Europe's ability to mobilise trained troops with modern and functional weaponry.

Without the U.S., the militaries of just Turkey, Poland, France and the UK could in theory bring together nearly 950,000 troops - 300,000 more than Napoleon took to Moscow in 1812.

But while NATO's overall troop numbers far exceed that of Russia, it is highly unlikely that all members of the alliance would be willing to send any great quantity of soldiers into battle unless a NATO country itself is attacked directly by Moscow.

As a result, a war between Europe and Russia could look a lot more balanced without U.S. backing, devolving into a long and grinding war of attrition.

Lieutenant-General Alexander Sollfrank, the head of NATO's logistics command, said last year that, unlike allies' experience in Afghanistan and Iraq, an all-out war with Russia would likely see NATO incur heavy losses across a huge battlefield.

Many European nations are therefore working to scale up their military industries as politicians sound the alarm over their respective nations' state of readiness for war.

But at present just 23 of 32 NATO countries are meeting the agreed-upon target of spending at least 2% of their GDP on defence.

Battle-ready Russia has meanwhile pushed its spending up to an equivalent 6.7%.

The loss of American defence systems and stockpiles would also hamper Europe if Trump withdrew the tens of thousands of U.S. troops currently stationed in Europe.

Europe would still have an independent nuclear deterrent without the U.S. Macron has signalled he is ready to extend France's nuclear deterrent to help protect Europe.

But again, experts warn Europe alone would need far more to be able to seriously deter Putin.

Maximilian Terhalle, a former Senior Adviser for strategic affairs to Britain's Ministry of Defence and Visiting Professor at the Grand Strategy Programme of King's College London told The Telegraph: 'We need to be on par with Russia's 1,550 strategic warheads.

'Otherwise we will not strategically influence what is going on in Putin's mind, which is critical for deterrence.'

Russian losses would also have to be taken into account after three years of bloody war.

The most conservative estimates suggest a minimum of 700,000 Russians have been killed or injured since February 2022, with that figure increasing as high as 1.2 million, according to some analyses.

More than 20,000 Russian tanks, armoured vehicles, artillery batteries and mobile launchers have also been reduced to scrap since February 2024, along with hundreds of military aircraft shot down by Ukrainian defences.

But Russia was still seeking to increase the number of its active service personnel to 1,500,000 in September last year, making it the second largest in the world after China's. The overall size would be 2,380,000.

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British soldiers practice an assault on February 17, 2025 in Smardan, Romania

Russian servicemen march on Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in central Moscow on May 9, 2024

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Ukrainian forces firing a 120mm mortar towards Russian positions at an undisclosed location near Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region, on February 8

Front row, left to right: Finland's President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Poland's PM Donald Tusk. Centre row from left: Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez, Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Antonio Costa, Canada's PM Justin Trudeau and Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan. Back row from left: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, Netherlands PM Dick Schoof, Sweden's PM Ulf Kristersson. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Norway's PM Jonas Gahr Store, Czech Republic's PM Petr Fiala, Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni and Turkey's foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Will Trump really withdraw all U.S. military aid to Ukraine?

Trump said in December that he was open to the idea of reducing aid to Ukraine.

The president is now expected to meet with his senior advisors on Monday, according to the New York Times, where he will consider the future of Ukraine aid, even as European countries are discussing how to increase their support for Ukraine.

Trump's National Security Advisor Mike Waltz warned in an interview on Fox News Monday morning that the days of unlimited support from America to Ukraine were over.

'The American people's patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited and our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited,' he said. 'The time to talk is now.'

Congress passed the last aid package to Ukraine in April 2024, under the Biden administration, and Trump is 'unlikely' to request more in light of the showdown at the White House, the American Center for Strategic & International Studies assessed.

At present, there is still aid earmarked for Ukraine, allocated under the last administration and not yet delivered.

'Even when the final equipment provided under [the Presidential Drawdown Authority] is delivered (around August 2025), USAI contracts will provide a steady flow of weapons through 2025 and beyond,' the American Center for Strategic & International Studies notes.

Vitally, around a dozen HIMARS rocket launchers and a dozen National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) were contracted in 2022 and should 'soon appear on the battlefield'.

But now, the U.S. could even target aid already signed off by the last administration and not yet delivered, according a Trump administration official, speaking in February.

A challenge facing the American Department of Defence is that it has now run out of funding to replace its own equipment stockpiles, and has been unwilling in the past to release equipment when there is no guarantee of its replacement, CSIS notes.

A critical mineral deal could still hold the key. Zelensky had suggested he might grant access to the country's rare minerals in return for continued aid.

But Trump's comments, and a draft version of the deal, suggest he is more focused on being compensated for aid already offered by the Biden administration.

A Ukrainian M142 HIMARS launches a rocket on Russian position on December 29, 2023

Donald Trump addresses the media as he departs the White House for Mar-a-Lago after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on February 28

Speaking to reporters at Stansted Airport before he left the UK, the Ukrainian president was asked if could stand down in the event his country becomes a Nato member

Would Putin invade other European countries if America pulls out of NATO?

Ahead of his meeting with Trump on Friday, Zelensky said that he had provided the US President with a list of 25 times Russia had violated ceasefires since the illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014.

Ukraine has warned that a hasty ceasefire deal without strong security guarantees would give Russia time to recoup its strength before potentially reopening the conflict later on.

A lack of security guarantees may also deter international investment in Ukraine, leaving the country struggling to rebuild its economy as Russia is welcomed back into international markets.

This could prime Russia for another invasion.

Denmark's intelligence service (FE) warned in February that Russia could be ready for a major war in Europe within just five years, and expects to get away with attacking NATO with few consequences.

'We see an increased willingness on the Russian side to challenge NATO, and we see an American administration that is focused on ending the fighting in Ukraine,' intelligence chief Anja Dalsgaard Nielsen told the Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten.

Last year, Danish intelligence concluded that Russia could attack a NATO country within three to five years and 'test' the bloc's Article 5 commitment of mutual defence.

Latvia's intelligence agency, the Constitution Protection Bureau (SAB), also reported in February that 'Russian intelligence and security services are currently developing their capabilities to organize sabotage in Europe' in preparation 'for a possible military confrontation with NATO in the long term'.

Should a peace deal play out to 'freeze' the conflict in Ukraine along existing battle lines, Moscow 'would be able to increase its military presence next to NATO's north-eastern flank, including the Baltics within the next five years', the report claims.

German intelligence warned in a classified report last year that Putin could be ready to launch a war against NATO members as early as 2026.

Dr Kenton White, politics and international relations expert at the University of Reading, told MailOnline: 'Russia is likely to reinvade Ukraine, and possibly the Baltic states, without security guarantees from the West.'

President Donald Trump meets with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at Trump Tower, Sept. 27, 2024, in New York

Can Zelensky and Trump salvage relations after White House row?

According to Zelensky: yes.

The Ukrainian president said on Sunday that he believed he could still salvage his relationship Trump after their explosive meeting in the Oval Office, but that talks needed to continue behind closed doors.

Zelenskiy reiterated that Ukraine would not concede any territory to Russia as part of a peace deal.

He said he was still willing to sign a minerals deal with the U.S. and described a discussion on Sunday with European leaders to send a draft peace plan to the U.S. as a key development.

Trump will also still be eyeing the critical minerals deal.

He said after the meeting that Zelensky could come back when he's 'ready for peace'.

European allies have tried to smooth things over. Keir Starmer has also backed a U.S. 'backstop' and stressed the importance of a sustainable peace deal.

Giorgia Meloni, the Italian premier, said as she arrived in London on Sunday that she believed that she and Starmer could help build 'bridges' with the U.S.
A furniture designer has lost a court fight over her tycoon ex's 18million house she insisted had been promised to her during a mountain top lunch in the Alps.

A judge threw out Christina Haynes' claim for half of the west London family home she shared with multimillionaire Mark Austin, 71, before their split, saying the vow was an 'elaborate performance' to keep her happy when they didn't marry.

Haynes, 44, Austin and their two children had lived in the mansion after the couple met in 2000 and began a 'blissfully happy' relationship.

She gave up her job and the couple set up home, with Mr Austin sinking his wealth into offshore trusts which by 2018 were worth about 66m.

They split in 2018, with Mr Austin agreeing following Family Court proceedings to pay his 45-year-old furniture designer ex 2.75m to buy a new house for her and the kids.

But he did not pay and she went back to court, claiming that she had in fact been promised half of their former home when Mr Austin took her to a lunch with the manager of his wealth trusts in the Liechtenstein Alps in 2014.

Ms Haynes said her ex sat next door while, over a mountaintop lunch, the trust boss assured her that a previous promise from Mr Austin that she would have half the value of the house, set out in a letter of wishes, would be honoured.

However, after a trial at the High Court, Judge Wicks KC has now rejected her claim, finding that any assurances given to Ms Haynes during the lunch were not binding.

Furniture designer Christina Haynes, 44, has lost a court fight over her tycoon ex's 18million house she insisted had been promised to her during a mountain top lunch in the Alps

A judge threw out her claim for half of the west London family home she shared with multimillionaire Mark Austin, 71, before their split, saying the vow was an 'elaborate performance' to keep her happy when they didn't marry

She said Ms Haynes had been taken through 'an elaborate performance in getting her out to Liechtenstein' to make her feel more secure at a point when the relationship was under 'strain' due to her 'desire to be married.'

It had been a 'bone of contention' and Ms Haynes was concerned what her own mother would have thought about her being an unmarried parent, bringing up the children alone in London with Mr Austin in Switzerland.

That and further correspondence in 2016 had involved administrators of the trusts, on Mr Austin's instructions, 'tip-toeing up to the line with Ms Haynes to give her comfort, but without crossing it into making a firm commitment,' she said.

'There may be many people who would consider this a cruelty to Ms Haynes, but that is insufficient to give her legal rights,' she added.

The High Court heard that Ms Haynes, a former travel editor at now defunct luxury lifestyle magazine Tramp, met her tycoon ex Mark George Austin in 2000 and fell head over heels in love.

In the witness box, she told Judge Wicks that the couple were initially 'blissfully happy' and that she was 'highly dependent' on him, having given up her job to raise their children.

She said she gave her then boyfriend a 60,000 inheritance from her mother to invest and paid for some of the works to the house herself, as well as managing the household and the property after Mr Austin sold his image library company Digital Vision Ltd in 2006, putting the proceeds into trusts and moving to Switzerland to minimise the tax he would pay.

Ms Haynes told the court that in 2014 her ex took her to Liechtenstein to meet the manager of the trusts, which own the house, and that during that trip 'assurances' were made that, despite his wealth being squirrelled away, she would be looked after financially if they split up.

During the meeting, the then trust manager had 'confirmed that the agreement between Mr Austin and Ms Haynes would be adhered to' and 'assured her that she and the children were protected, that there was security for them and they could trust him,' the barrister added.

The deal was sealed over 'lunch on the snow-covered mountains,' Ms Haynes told the judge, with the trust manager 'reassuring me that despite not being married this was still security for us and I could trust him.'

'I was assured that my home and my children were protected,' she added.

Haynes, 44, (right) Austin, and their two children had lived in the mansion after the couple met in 2000 and began a 'blissfully happy' relationship

The arrangement that Ms Haynes would share the value of the house with Mr Austin was repeated in a letter by a later trust manager in 2016, she said.

The couple split at New Year 2017-18 and in December the following year they agreed a consent order under which Mr Austin was to pay her 2.75m to buy a new house and agreed to her staying in the family home until the new property was purchased.

In October 2019, a Family Court judge attached a penal order to the consent order, as it had not been paid along with over 200,000 worth of legal costs.

In 2020, the manager of the controlling overseas trust behind Hamersley Invest Anstalt, the trust company through which the west London property is owned, wrote to Ms Haynes giving her notice to leave, as the house was to be sold.

But Ms Haynes obtained an injunction preventing her eviction and in 2021 was also granted charging orders of around 3m against the value of the property in relation to the money she was owed by her ex.

The case went back to court in November when Judge Wicks was asked to decide whether Ms Haynes should be thrown out or whether the 18m house should be sold so she could get her half share, plus 3m from her ex's portion.

The judge returned to court last week and gave judgment, rejecting Ms Haynes' claim to half the proceeds of sale of the house and her bid to force its sale.

But she also rejected Hamersley Invest Anstalt's bid to throw her out, finding that Ms Haynes has the right to stay until another property is found for her.

She said the events of March 2014, involving 'the flying out to Zurich' and her Liechtenstein Alps meeting with trust boss, Dr Markus Wanger, had been an 'elaborate performance' to make her feel more secure, despite being unmarried.

'In my judgment, the representations made by Dr Wanger in 2014 fall short of the promise of an interest in the property which is required for a proprietary estoppel,' she continued.

'On the one hand, they were undoubtedly intended to be relied on by Ms Haynes: Mr Austin and Dr Wanger took her through an elaborate performance in getting her out to Liechtenstein and allowing her to see Mr Austin's letter of wishes being formally notarized.

'It can hardly be said to have been unreasonable for her, in the circumstances, to have relied on what was then said and done.

'But what she was told on that occasion was not that the letters of wishes conferred, or would confer, an interest in the property on her.

'It was that Dr Wanger had a genuine intention to administer a discretionary trust on the basis set out in the letters of wishes and she could trust him to do so.

'Objectively, a reasonable person would have understood from Mr Austin's letter of wishes that it was revocable and that, if circumstances changed, Dr Wanger might depart from what was there set out.

'I do not consider that Dr Wanger made clear that he was giving a promise that would not be revoked, particularly if her relationship with Mr Austin subsequently foundered.'

Referring to letters in 2016 by a later trust director, Dr Helmut Schwaerzler, which referenced Mr Austin's wish that she have a half share, had been 'caveated' by references to his 'discretionary powers,' she continued.

'Both Dr Wanger and Dr Schwaerzler were, on the instructions of Mr Austin, tip-toeing up to the line with Ms Haynes to give her comfort, but without crossing it into making a firm commitment,' she said.

'There may be many people who would consider this a cruelty to Ms Haynes, but that is insufficient to give her legal rights by way of an estoppel.'

The judge rejected all of Ms Haynes' claims to be entitled to a half share of the proceeds of the house and for an order for sale to pay off Mr Austin's bills, as it is not actually owned by him but the trust company.

However, she also rejected Hamersley Invest Anstalt's application for possession of the house, saying that she can stay in the house until another is provided for her.
This is the shocking moment a British tourist was knocked out by a bouncer's single punch outside a strip club in Thailand.

The tourist, 62, had reportedly been drinking at a nearby bar before trying to enter the lap dancing venue in 'Sin City' Pattaya at around 11:30 pm on March 2.

However, he was blocked at the entrance by tattooed Thai guard Sarawut, 33, who said he refused to let him in due to his aggressive behaviour.

CCTV footage shows the Brit stomping toward the bouncer as they squared up in an alleyway along the infamous red-light district Walking Street.

Sarawut then threw a powerful right hook that instantly knocked the holidaymaker unconscious, leaving him bleeding while splayed out on the pavement.

Medics later arrived to give the Englishman first aid before rushing him to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya for treatment.

Sarawut today filed a report at the Pattaya City Police Station. He claimed the British tourist had kicked him in the groin first for refusing him entry at the strip club.

A police spokesman said: 'We have not charged anyone because we are waiting for the British tourist to be discharged from the hospital.

A strip club bouncer named Sarawut, 33, said he refused to let in the elderly tourist due to his aggressive behaviour

The tourist, 62, had reportedly been drinking at a nearby bar before trying to enter the lap dancing venue in 'Sin City' Pattaya at around 11:30 pm on March 2

Sarawut threw a powerful right hook that instantly knocked the holidaymaker unconscious, leaving him bleeding

Medics later arrived to give the Englishman first aid before rushing him to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya for treatment

The Brit was left splayed out on the pavement and blood was seen on the alleyway along the infamous red-light district Walking Street

Sarawut today filed a report at the Pattaya City Police Station. He claimed the British tourist had kicked him in the groin first for refusing him entry at the strip club

'We will summon both sides to the police station for questioning.'

Atthapol Promuthai, a security guard who witnessed the incident, said: 'The tourist appeared to be picking a fight with the bouncer before he was knocked out.

'I saw the bouncer walking away from him to avoid him, but the tourist kept following him into the alley across the street.

'The bouncer appeared to have lost control of his temper and punched the man in the face before running away.'

In May year, a British tourist was kicked in the head and knocked unconscious by bouncers on the nearby Soi 6 street, leading to concerns the destination had descended into a 'Sodom and Gomorrah'.

Sergeant Major Arthon from the Pattaya City police station, said that the three security guards had since been warned about their conduct but they had not been arrested or charged.

Former fishing village Pattaya became popular with American troops on 'rest and relaxation' breaks in the 1950s and 1960s when the US military had bases in Thailand while fighting Communism in Vietnam.

Rural families are said to have even dressed their sons as women to cash in on the gold rush.

The handful of bars in the coastal town quickly grew and it is now the world's biggest sex holiday destination, with round-the-clock prostitution and drugs - a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah rife with crime and debauchery.

Government chiefs have attempted to clean up the city but regular violence, depravity and claims of corruption continue to blight its reputation.
King Charles has given a warm welcome to Canada's prime minister Justin Trudeau at Sandringham - a day after enjoying tea and cake with Volodymyr Zelensky.

The King's latest embrace of a world leader came today, 24 hours after being hailed for showing solidarity to Ukraine's President Zelensky.

Sources told the Mail yesterday not to underestimate the significance of the meeting between the monarch and Mr Trudeau at his private Norfolk estate.

The Canadian leader had made clear before the meeting that he wanted to discuss matters of importance to Canadians with the monarch.

He said: Nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation.

Charles appeared to give a hearty laugh as Mr Trudeau gestured towards him with a pointed figure and shook the monarch's hand.

The Canadian PM also clasped the King's hand in both of his in a demonstration of the ease of their relationship as the pair met in the saloon at the royal property Sandringham House in Norfolk.

While Buckingham Palace declined to comment, a well-placed source told the Mail: As is often the case with the Royal Familys role, the pictures speak for themselves.

King Charles today welcomed Canada's prime minister Justin Trudeau to his private Sandringham estate in Norfolk

The pair were pictured as they met and chatted in a saloon at the royal property

The King yesterday welcomed and shook hands with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky

And the image of the two men, hands clasped and later sitting in cosy arm chairs side-by-side in the monarchs inner sanctum, did indeed convey volumes.

On one hand it would be highly unusual for the Head of State of Canada not to meet with his Prime Minister when they are in the same country, so in that respect it was business as usual.

However the source added: I dont think the extra significance of todays meeting will be lost on anyone.

Canada has been facing its own challenges in recent weeks. Some are shared with Europe, others not. 

Diplomatic efforts on Ukraine have intensified as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer warned Europe's leaders they stood at a 'crossroads in history' and urged them to join his 'coalition of the willing'.

Charles, who has invited Mr Trump to pay an unprecedented second state visit to the UK, is increasingly being seen as a unifying figure.

Despite pressure following last weeks debacle in the White House involving Mr Zelensky, that is unlikely to be rescinded as it was issued, as normal, on government advice.

His potential role comes amid turmoil on the world's political stage, supported by the royal family's so-called 'soft power' diplomacy.

Charles and Mr Trudeau posed for photographs at the start of their private audience

The two appeared to get on warmly as they chatted on Monday at Sandringham

The King and Mr Trudeau were shown sitting side by side, between them was a small wooden antique table, with a large lamp and a dish filled with potpourri.

In the background was a grand wooden desk, home to a large green plant with small delicate pink flowers, and to the side a grand piano adorned with black and white family portraits.

Sandringham House has been the private home for five generations of British monarchs for more than 160 years and now belongs to the King.

Charles and Mr Trudeau posed for photographs at the start of their private audience.

Some in Canada have started to question why the King has not visited the country, a significant Commonwealth realm, since his accession.

In fact a trip had been planned for this time last year but had to be cancelled after Charles shock cancer diagnosis. He is still undergoing weekly treatment for this today.

Unfortunately it was impossible to re-arrange as two incoming State Visits and a major foreign tour to Australia and Samoa had already been scheduled in.

The King is now unable to visit at least until the end of this year due to Canadas forthcoming federal elections in October due to the need to be politically impartial.

But sources say a royal visit will be scheduled in as soon as possible after that process has concluded.

The desire to go is strong and there is no doubt that HM will visit as soon as the circumstances and logistical issues make it possible, a source said.

Another added: The kings visit will be a priority. 

Mr Trump has repeatedly threatened to make Canada the 51st state of the US, claiming that without a massive subsidy from the larger neighbour it 'ceases to exist as a viable country'.

Mr Trudeau, who flew to London to join an emergency defence summit of European leaders at the weekend, said he would raise his concerns on the matter with Charles, who is King of Canada.

Mr Trump has also vowed to impose tariffs on imported goods from Canada as soon as Tuesday amid his concerns over border crossings.

The King has faced criticism for being silent about Mr Trump's suggestion of annexing Canada.

Further diplomacy will be needed in juggling this with the Kings commitments to meet with the US president, who has made no secret of his admiration for what he calls a wonderful, beautiful man.

King Charles with Volodymyr Zelensky at Sandringham. The pair's meeting in Norfolk was long planned, but came as world leaders made a frantic diplomatic push patch up western unity

Charles's show of solidarity came 48 hours after President Trump's meltdown with Mr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday

The Mail understands that Mr Trump has been invited to visit the King privately in Scotland this summer, staying at either Balmoral, the royal familys private Scottish estate, or Dumfries House, the seat of the Kings philanthropic empire with its historic collection of Chippendale furniture and stunning grounds.

The trip has been designed to appeal to Mr Trumps Scottish ancestry, through his adored mother, Mary, and allow the King to reaffirm their good relations away from the glare of the cameras.

During the visit the two men will also discuss the timing of Mr Trumps official state visit to the UK.

But sources have made clear that a trip to Canada would need to be scheduled in before that happens, suggesting any US State Visit will not happen until spring or summer next year, at the earliest.

Meanwhile the King will continue to show support for Canada, a country of which he is particularly fond, through more subtle ways, such as his statement last month marking the 60th anniversary of the countrys flag. He described it as a symbol of a proud, resilient and compassionate country and wrote of his own pride and admiration as the nations king.

A little says a lot, a source emphasised last night.

Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney said 'for Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented' on Mr Trump's threats, he can only act on the advice of Canada's prime minister.

Mr Kenney posted on X, formerly Twitter: 'The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty.'

Sir Keir Starmer greeting Mr Zelensky in Downing Street on Sunday. The PM announced plans to send 5,000 British air defence missiles to Ukraine

And former Canadian public servant Artur Wilczynski wrote on the same social media site: 'Canadians will need to decide what purpose King Charles III serves as King of Canada if he can't even speak up for our sovereignty.'

Yet there have also been suggestions that Charles' public role - including the embrace of Mr Zelensky - show a willingness to act as an influential and conciliatory public figure.

His protective arm around the Ukrainian president's shoulder and show of solidarity came as world leaders launched a frantic diplomatic push to patch up the cracks in Western unity over Ukraine.

Should Donald Trump's next UK state visit be cancelled? Thousands of Mail readers have had their say on the divisive debate  should Donald Trumps state visit be cancelled? And a large majority want the invitation rescinded after the extraordinary Oval Office row on Friday. Some 66 per cent of respondents (19,338 votes) said the state visit should be called off, compared to 9,929 votes (34 per cent) saying it should go ahead. Last Thursday, Keir Starmer said the second state visit invitation was unprecedented. Advertisement

Sunday's meeting in Norfolk, which came at Mr Zelenskys request, was long planned but came just two days after the Oval Office showdown with Mr Trump and the US Vice-President JD Vance - both of whom were accused of 'ganging up' on their guest.

While the coming weeks will test even the Kings legendary convening power to its limits, there is optimism in Whitehall that the Royal Familys power of soft diplomacy will be seen as more valuable than ever in the coming months in pouring balm on a conflict-riven world.

Sometimes people ask what does this royal soft power look like. Well, you couldnt have seen a clearer working example of that over the last five, extraordinary days, a source added.

At a time of huge global tension, the King has been balancing the role he can play in achieving the countrys key core objectives without overstepping the clear constitutional boundaries of his role.

Sir Keir had handed over to Mr Trump on Thursday at the White House a letter from the King inviting the US President for a second state visit.

But there have since been calls from critics for the invitation to be rescinded following Mr Trump's subsequent dressing-down for Mr Zelensky.

The US president and his deputy suggested Mr Zelensky had appeared 'ungrateful' for US support in response to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Mr Trumps explosive Oval Office row with Mr Zelensky on Friday night left British ministers fearing he could pull the plug on US support for Ukraine all together.

But Sir Keir, who spoke to President Trump twice over the weekend, said he still trusted him and insisted that a peace deal was not dead.

The PM is expected to attend a summit of European leaders in Brussels on Thursday to seek more support for the peace plan.

He could then return to the White House with Mr Zelensky and Mr Macron to try to sell it to Mr Trump.
Do you know more? Email tips@dailymail.com

Two men have been rushed to hospital with head injuries after they were allegedly struck with bricks in a wild brawl that broke out on a quiet suburban street

Emergency services were called to Rosina Street in Fairfield in Sydney's south-west about 5.15pm on Monday following reports of a melee involving men and women.

Confronting footage filmed by passing motorist showed a man in white track pants and a black shirt armed with an object appearing to charge toward a group of people standing in a driveway.

He appeared to throw the object believed to be a brick, which struck another man in the head.

He was followed by another male in a white hoodie, who also appeared to hurl another object towards the group.

An older-looking man fled the confrontation before the young male in a white hoodie appeared to launch a second projectile in his direction.

It's understood the group had been congregating around a black ute parked nearby before the brawl broke out.

One man aged in his 30s and another in his 40s suffered head lacerations and were taken to Liverpool Hospital in a stable condition.

Two young men were seen allegedly hurling bricks at a group in a Fairfield street on Monday

Police are yet to make any arrests over the brawl which saw two men hospitalised

NSW Police confirmed bricks were allegedly used as weapons in the brawl.

'Officers attended and were told a number of males and females were involved in the brawl,' a police spokeswoman said.

'A number of people are assisting police with inquiries.

'Police established a crime scene and commenced inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.'

Police also believe a number of people believed to have been involved in the brawl left the scene before officers arrived.

No arrests or charges have yet been laid.

Police urge anyone with information or CCTV/dashcam to contact Crime Stoppers.
A car has driven into a crowd in the western German city of Mannheim leaving two dead and at least 25 injured, according to local media reports.

Police confirmed that a suspect had been identified and arrested this afternoon, but added that 'no further, reliable information can currently be released'.

A police spokesman at the scene also told Welt they could not yet rule out a second attack.

Bild reported this afternoon that two people had been killed and 25 had been injured, 15 of them seriously.

Several were seen lying on the ground in the aftermath, with two people apparently being resuscitated, a witness told Reuters.

Another witness, sitting at a restaurant on Paradeplatz at the time, told Welt that 'all hell broke loose'.

He said he did not see the crash, but 'people running away in panic' and police everywhere, even on rooftops.

The incident occurred as crowds gathered in cities across regions including Germany's Rhineland for parades to mark the carnival season.

Police were on high alert for this year's carnival parades after social media accounts connected to ISIS called for attacks on the events in Cologne and Nuremberg.

Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, after a serious incident

Images from social media claimed to show a major incident in Mannheim today

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Mannheim's University Hospital meanwhile said that it was preparing for a possible mass accident with multiple casualties, according to Welt.

Eight trauma teams have been brought together for both adult and child potential victims of the incident.

Mannheim police said in a statement on Monday: 'There is currently a police operation in Mannheim city center, in the area around Wasserturm/Plankenkopf.

'Police and rescue services are on their way. Further information is not yet available. In this context, there may be temporary traffic disruptions in the city centre.'

Police would not disclose what prompted the large law enforcement presence in the city center but a spokesperson said the incident had been reported as 'a life-threatening deployment situation.'

Police spokesperson Stefan Wilhelm told n-tv television that an 'incident' occurred at around 12:15 p.m. in the Paradeplatz area of downtown Mannheim that triggered a large police deployment. He said he couldn't give details.

Authorities pushed an alert on the Katwarn app telling people in Mannheim to avoid the city's downtown area due to a big police deployment.

Katwarn is used by officials to communicate information about major emergencies such as thunderstorms, militant attacks or fires.

Security has been a key concern in Germany following a string of violent attacks in recent weeks, including deadly car rammings in Magdeburg in December and in Munich last month, as well as a stabbing in Mannheim in May 2024.

Mannheim was blighted by a mass stabbing when a man ambushed and attacked several people at a rally hosted by the anti-Islam Citizen's Movement Pax Europe group.

At least 39 people, including a two-year-old child, were also injured in Munich last month when a man drove a car into a crowd of 1,000 strikers.

Footage from the scene captured the moment the driver was arrested, as cops swarmed the vehicle and pinned him to the ground.

Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, after a serious incident

Police officers stand by during a major operation at the city center in Mannheim

File photo. Mannheim police near the scene where several people were attacked in 2024

It came just weeks after a car drove into a group of people at a Christmas market in the German city of Magdeburg, killing at least six and injuring nearly 70.

In December, the country was also rocked by an attack in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, when a 28-year-old man stabbed a two-year-old boy and a passerby to death in a German park.

Two people were killed and three injured, police said.

There was no initial suggestion Monday's incident in Mannheim was a deliberate attack.

Mannheim, population 326,000, lies about 85 kilometers (52 miles) south of Frankfurt.
A woman dubbed 'Britain's most hated mum' has hit back at critics who judge her for pulling her toddler out of nursery for a holiday - and says she has eight more trips planned this year during term time.

Carla Bellucci, who has four children aged between three and 19, is currently enjoying a trip to Hurghada in Egypt with her youngest, who is learning to 'count her cocktails' as part of her alternative schooling.

The former glamour model has more than 178K followers on Instagram and previously ran an OnlyFans account where she reportedly made more than 40,000.

Carla has been dubbed 'Britain's most hated mum' - a moniker she is unbothered about - for a series of controversial moves, including faking depression to get a nose job on the NHS, charging her family 150 per head for Christmas dinner and buying her teenage daughter a Magic Mike lap dance for her 18th birthday.

Last year the 42-year-old from Hertfordshire spent 25,000 on six holidays and controversially said that Donald Trump should be running the UK.

Her children will enjoy 'luxurious, five-star' holidays to Marrakech, Paris, Florida, Bali, Cyprus, Marbella and Tunisia this year - all of which will require them being taken out of school.

The former glamour model has more than 178K followers on Instagram where she regularly posts snaps of herself on holiday

Carla Bellucci, who has four children aged between 19 and three, is currently enjoying a trip to Hurghada in Egypt with her youngest

Last year Carla spent 25,000 on six holidays and said that Donald Trump should be running the UK

She said: 'Lots of people don't agree and think we should not go in term time - but I couldn't care less.

'I never go out of term time - there are too many screaming brats by the pool.

'Plus too many people queuing up for the buffet - I like a more exclusive, quiet feel.'

While she openly shares controversial views and plans such as term time holidays and future plans to relocate to the US without her kids, Carla said she doesn't pay attention to what anyone critical of her says.

She said: 'I could not care less - I'm my own person and I'm a fantastic mother.

'My kids have all turned out fine. The mums that should worry are the ones taking their kids to Benidorm in August - it's so rough.

'My children go on luxurious quality, five-star holidays. If Butlin's in August is your thing that's fine with me but it's not for me or my children.'

Carla is currently enjoying a sun-soaked stay in Hurghada and plans to extend the trip further.

Carla says she doesn't pay attention to what anyone critical of her says. She is pictured with one of her children

The ex-glamour model featured in series three of Stacey Dooley's series Stacey Sleeps Over last year where she openly spoke about her parenting and lifestyle

Carla says her daughter is learning maths by 'counting her cocktails'

She said: 'I think we are going to stay for another week as the weather is so nice - there's no reason to return to the UK.'

While there, she says her daughter is 'counting her cocktails'.

Carla said: 'I teach on a daily basis - she will be able to count to 50 by the end of next week!

'She loves to learn, and I teach her at every opportunity.

'This week I took her horse-riding - another beautiful experience learning about different cultures which is way more important than UK learning.'

Carla and her family featured in an episode of Stacey Dooley's series Stacey Sleeps Over last year where she openly spoke about her parenting and lifestyle.

Despite the backlash she has received over her holiday dates, Carla is firmly shrugging off the haters.

She said: 'The more people talk about me, the more money I make.

'We already have seven more holidays booked for this year, all in term-time.

'If it becomes a problem I'll take her my daughter out of the schooling system.

'I will never be a follower and I will never be told what I can and can't do with my own child.'
No10 today distanced itself from Lord Mandelson after the UK ambassador to the US suggested Ukraine should agree to a ceasefire before Russia.

The Tony Blair-era Labour minister also used an interview with American outlet ABC to say that Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky should give 'unequivocal backing' to US President Donald Trump's peace initiative.

His remarks came after Friday's astonishing televised White House spat between the two presidents, which sparked global outrage.

Mr Trump accused Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with world war three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putin's invasion.

PM Sir Keir Starmer gathered European leaders and Canadian PM Trudeau in London yesterday to find a way for Europe to lead on a peace deal.

Mr Trump's overtures to Russia's Vladimir Putin, with the possibility of Ukraine being sidelined in talks led by the White House and the Kremlin, has alarmed European leaders.

But the PM's official spokesman today distanced the Government from Lord Mandelson's words.

'The PM has made very clear his priorities in bringing together a small group of countries who are willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and guarantee the peace and that work is continuing at pace,' he said.

The Tony Blair-era Labour minister also used an interview with American outlet ABC to say that Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky should give 'unequivocal backing' to US President Donald Trump's peace initiative.

His remarks came after Friday's astonishing televised White House spat between the two presidents, which sparked global outrage.

But the PM's official spokesman today distanced the Government from Lord Mandelson's words.

Asked if Lord Mandelson's comments were helpful, the spokesman added: 'The PM has made very clear his position on all of this. The priority here is reaching a durable peace and we're continuing to focus on the steps to deliver that.'

Lord Mandelson said a 'very radical reset' was needed following the Oval Office row between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

'The reset has to consist of the United States and Ukraine getting back on the same page, President Zelensky giving his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President Trump is taking to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine,' he said.

'And the Europeans too, they need to back the calls for a ceasefire, and  by the way  I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow.'

The former Cabinet minister's appointment as ambassador was not straightforward, with past comments about Mr Trump coming back to haunt him.

The Labour grandee called Mr Trump a 'danger to the world' and 'little short of a white nationalist and racist' several years ago.

He later used a New York Times interview to say that some of his comments about Mr Trump had been 'childish and wrong'.

Asked this morning whether Lord Mandelson's remarks reflected Government policy, Defence Minister Luke Pollard told Sky News: 'No. It's certainly right that Ukrainians want peace. I think of all the people on our continent that want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

'But we're still in discussions, diplomatic engagement with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of that deal.

'But it's certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war.'

Asked whether Lord Mandelson misspoke, he said: 'That's not Government policy.'

Earl;ier today

Nigel Farage today blamed Ukrainian war leader Volodymyr Zelensky for starting a furious row with Donald Trump at the White House last week.

The Reform UK leader, a vocal cheerleaders for the US president, accused the war leader of 'overplaying his hand' and sparking the astonishing televised spat with Trump and vice president JD Vance.

Mr Farage also criticised president Zelensky of 'bowling up and showing no respect' to Trump, because he failed to wear a suit and tie to his meeting in Washington DC.

The Ukrainian president, who was given a warm welcome by King Charles at Sandringham yesterday, cut short a trip to the US in which he was supposed to sign a minerals deal with Mr Trump.

Mr Trump sparked global outrage by accusing Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with World War Three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putin's invasion.

Speaking to LBC today Mr Farage said Ukraine was a 'corrupt country' and had to accept it was not getting territory like the Crimea back.

And he added: 'If I turned up at the White House I would make sure I was wearing a suit and my shoes were clean.'

After it was pointed out that the Ukrainian president was following in the footsteps of leaders like Churchill in visiting in battle fatigues, he added: 'If Zelenky wants to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredible old fashioned about this stuff ... if you are going in with a positive mindset maybe Zelensky should have thought about that.'
A stunning Delaware beach has been unexpectedly listed as one of the best places for spring breakers to relish their time off - but there is a catch for the college-age vacationers.

Bethany Beach was dubbed the sixth-best place to visit out of the 35 across the US ranked by vacation rental website HomeToGo.

The charming coastal town is known for its dazzling shores and bustling boardwalk. It is a calm, family-friendly getaway spot, situated just minutes away from Rehoboth Beach - which is known to be more lively and appealing to young adults.

Despite having the second-most affordable rental options of all the beaches listed and plenty to do during the day and at night, it is simply too cold for students looking for a warm escape from their academic lives.

College spring break kicks off in early March and normally spans until mid-April, depending on the school's schedule.

Regardless of when their week off falls, college kids looking to catch a tan, enjoy the ocean or just to get a taste of summer - especially if they are from the Northeast - are likely not opting for Delaware.

Over the next two weeks, the warmest temperature Bethany Beach will see is 63 degrees on March 12, according to The Weather Channel.

The coldest day will be Sunday, which is expected to be partly-cloudy with the highest temperature a chilly 46 degrees with 12 mile-per-hour winds on top.

College spring break kicks off in early March and normally spans until mid-April, depending on the school's schedule (stock image)

Bethany Beach was dubbed the sixth-best place to visit out of the 35 across the US

Bethany Beach, a charming coastal town. is known for its dazzling shores and bustling boardwalk

An extended forecast shows a relatively consistent trend for Bethany Beach all month, with temperature predictions hovering in the 50s. HomeToGo gave Bethany Beach a 6.16 out of 10 'heat score.'

The the five hot-spots above the Delaware town are on trend with a stereotypical spring break - but some of those places will not see beach weather in the coming weeks either.

Avila Beach, California earned the top slot for its 'golden sand and warmer waters than many nearby beaches,' HomeToGo wrote.

From Monday through March 17, the warmest day at Avila Beach will be 64 degrees on March 16.

North Carolina's Kure Beach came in second place and was described as a calmer alternative to the state's more popular and crowded beach towns. In the coming weeks, the two hottest days - March 13 and 14 - will be 68 degrees.

Tied for second place with Kure Beach is Cherry Grove Beach in South Carolina. Once again, temperatures will not break 70 degrees in the next two weeks.

Ranked fourth and fifth, Florida's Saint Joe Beach and Vilano Beach are the most tan-friendly choices at the top of the list - but not by much.

Both beaches' two-week forecasts fluctuate between the high 60s and mid-70s.

Rehoboth Beach - which is known to be more lively and appealing to young adults - is just minutes from Bethany Beach

Despite having the second-most affordable rental options of all the beaches listed and plenty to do during the day and at night, it is simply too cold for students looking for a warm escape from their academic lives (pictured: Bethany Beach boardwalk)

Avila Beach, California earned the top slot for its 'golden sand and warmer waters than many nearby beaches,' HomeToGo wrote, but it won't be much warmer than Delaware

If sunny skies and hot weather are absolute must-haves for travelers seeking out a US spring trip, Bal Harbour Beach in Florida scored 10 out of 10 for its heat score as temperatures over the next two weeks will remain in the high-70s and low-80s.

Last month, Spirit Airlines revealed its most-searched spring break destinations.

The data displayed that travelers were looking to fly to are down south, out west, and to an island - with customers favoring warm weather locations.

Rana Ghosh, Senior Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at Spirit, confirmed most searches were looking into flights to Florida, Nevada and Puerto Rico.

'Spring break is a great time to choose to fly in style and enjoy the value and enhanced experience that Spirit's new travel options offer,' he said in the press release.
Employees of Southwest Airlines who for decades have been accustomed to a family-like workplace were left blindsided and heartbroken last month when the company laid off 15 percent of its corporate workforce.

From 1971 until this year, Southwest employees fully believed their company would take care of them no matter how tough times got.

That was largely because co-founder Herb Kelleher, who stepped down as chairman in 2008 and died in 2019, instilled a unique corporate culture that valued respect among workers at all levels.

'No matter how big you get, taking care of your employees - being interested in your employees, communicating with your employees, honoring your employees - is still Job One,' he said during a lecture to Stanford business school students in 2006.

In new-hire orientations, employees were told that Southwest was able to avoid mass layoffs, unlike competitors Delta and United, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Treating coworkers like family was the standard at Southwest.

Executives prided themselves on knowing the names of their workers' children and often sent them handwritten notes for special occasions like birthdays. The company's elaborate Halloween parties routinely attract thousands of employees and their families.

That inclusivity even trickled down to its love-themed marketing, stemming from its LUV stock ticker symbol.

On February 17, Southwest announced a 15 percent cut to its corporate workforce, or about 1,750 employees. Despite the airline's well-documented struggles to maintain profitability, the layoffs came as a surprise to company veterans who thought of co-workers as their second family

Southwest co-founder Herb Kelleher, who stepped down as chairman in 2008 and died in 2019, was the man behind Southwest's unique culture. He was the one who assured employees they'd always be taken care of

But after around 1,750 people were slashed from the payroll on February 17, once-loyal staffers had the rude awakening that all companies, even Southwest, have shareholders to answer to.

The job cuts came after months of sustained pressure to modernize business practices from Elliott Investment Management, which holds 10 percent of Southwest's common stock.

The New York city-based investment fund demanded major downsizing and even tried to oust the airline's top leaders.

A compromise allowed CEO Bob Jordan to stay in place while giving Elliott the opportunity to exert more authority through six handpicked seats on the board of directors.

Southwest axed its popular open seating policy in favor of a standard assigned seating system while also dramatically reducing the number of flights available.

But the airline's board wants more than that, according to the Journal. Jordan plans to cut $500 million in costs by 2027. Hiring, promotions and the festive celebrations to welcome new employees have all been put on pause.

Southwest has not bounced back from the pandemic-era dip in travel demand, joining airlines like Delta and United, which both have enjoyed much stronger profit margins over the last year.

Shares of United have more than doubled in value since March 2024, while Southwest has shed more than 9 percent over the same period.

Employees compared getting laid off to experiencing a death. One longtime staffer even ranked her first day at Southwest as comparable with her wedding day and her children being born

CEO Bob Jordan said Southwest needs to return to its scrappier 1970s roots as the airline braves a period of extreme uncertainty

Evelyn Johnson, a 61-year-old customer-care operations coordinator in Colorado Springs, told the Journal that getting laid off from Southwest felt 'like a death.'

She said she applied to work at the airline after taking a Southwest flight to Los Angeles to scatter her father's ashes. The flight attendants treated her so nicely that she thought it would be a great place to make a career.

After Johnson started in 2008, the company's travel benefits allowed her to fly all over the US and make tons of friends. Her adventures became the main focus of her Instagram account.

'We all drank that Kool-Aid. You walked around the halls, everybody was happy,' Johnson said.

'I know we need money to live in the world we live in, but you cannot lose your character in the process,' she added.

Victoria Slavic, who was a technology manager at Southwest, said the elation she felt on her first day at Southwest was comparable to her wedding day and when her children were born.

Her first day - which involved marching down a red carpet to cheers from pompom waving coworkers - was a stark contrast to her last. An executive delivered the news that she had been terminated via a pre-scripted video that lasted seven minutes.

CEO Jordan said Southwest needs to return to its scrappier 1970s roots as the company braves a period of extreme uncertainty.

'We are building a leaner organization with increased clarity regarding what is most important, quicker decision-making, and a focus on getting the right things done with urgency - not unlike our entrepreneurial founding spirit of the 1970s,' Jordan wrote to employees.
President Donald Trump offered a big revelation about his speech to the nation on Tuesday night as he prepares to lay his agenda for the next year.

'TOMORROW NIGHT WILL BE BIG. I WILL TELL IT LIKE IT IS!,' he announced in a Truth Social post.

It's unclear what he'll reveal when he steps up on the dais in the House of Representatives. He's not seemed to have held back at all in his first six weeks in office.

His speech comes as he pushes to slash the federal government, close agencies, and fire hundreds of workers.

He had a jaw-dropping showdown with Ukrainian President Zelensky in the Oval Office and pardoned hundreds of his MAGA supporters who stormed into the Capitol on January 6th.

President Donald Trump returns to the White House on Sunday night after spending the weekend at Mar-a-Lago

He'll also drop long-promised tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Tuesday because of what he calls 'very high and unacceptable levels' of fentanyl flowing across the northern and southern borders.

And he needs lawmakers to come to an agreement on federal spending.

The government faces a shutdown on March 14 if lawmakers cannot pass a budget. Republicans are fighting with one another on the final figure - on how much the federal government should spend for the rest of the 2025 fiscal year.

And Democrats want reassurances Trump will spend the money as Congress allocates it. They've also questioned if Trump can legally fire federal workers and end federal contracts without congressional approval.

Some Democratic lawmakers are inviting fired federal workers to the speech as their guest. Each member of Congress gets a plus one.

Trump, for his part, seems ready to go it alone with his executive team on his side, wielding his power with no checks or balances.

He has pushed Elon Musk and his DOGE department to do more to cut down on the size and scope of the federal government.

He's used executive orders to make English the official language and declare there are only two genders.

He's referred to himself as royalty, writing on his social media accounts: 'LONG LIVE THE KING!'

The American people seem unsure of what to make of Trump's second term: a CBS News poll gave him a 51% approval rating, a CNN poll gave him a 48% approval rating.

But even as Trump seeks to expand the power of the executive branch, he will need Congress' help on a few parts of his agenda - particularly on extending the tax cuts he pushed for in 2017.

He's expected to speak on the economy, double down on his support for the Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, and talk about ways he wants to reduce illegal immigration.

Trump's speech is scheduled to begin Tuesday at 9 p.m. ET.

President Donald Trump gave an address to a Joint Session of Congress in February 2017 - with then-Vice President Mike Pence and then-Speaker Paul Ryan behind him

A joint address to Congress is different from the State of the Union. In their first year in office, presidents are typically invited to address a joint session in the spring, when they would typically give a State of the Union address.

But because the commander-in-chief has only been in office a few months, the speech is more of a look ahead for the nation.

Senate and House members from both parties will be in attendance with Vice President JD Vance and Speaker Mike Johnson seated behind the president.

Members of the U.S. Supreme Court and Trump's Cabinet will attend.

First lady Melania Trump will be there in her box with her invited guests.

Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin, who previously served in the House, will give the Democrats' response after Trump concludes.
Fascinating never-before-seen photos of life on a British whaling ship in the Antarctic in the aftermath of the Second World War have emerged 80 years on.

The black and white images are a reminder of Britain's centuries-long involvement in a trade that came to be abhorred by most nations.

Whale meat was available as an alternative to beef, pork and chicken at a time when food rationing was still in place.

And whale oil was used as a lubricant in industry and to make margarine.

One image shows a crew member stood in the jaws of a gigantic sperm whale which was placed on deck.

Another is of a whale being brought next to the vessel before being lifted on board.

Fascinating never-before-seen photos of life on a British whaling ship in the Antarctic in the aftermath of the Second World War have emerged 80 years on

The photos were taken by Robert James Hewer aboard the Southern Venturer between 1945 and 1946

Robert James Hewer cuddles a cat aboard the Southern Venturer between 1945 and 1946

Other graphic images illustrate how the blubber was removed and meat stripped from whale carcasses.

The photos were taken by Robert James Hewer aboard the Southern Venturer between 1945 and 1946.

Other snaps taken by a crew mate show him cuddling a cat and face to face with a penguin.

A person with a broken leg is hoisted ashore and crew members 'smarten up' by giving each other haircuts.

They encountered dramatic scenery including huge icebergs and visited the stone memorial to great explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton.

The 28-page album is tipped to sell for 1,200 at London-based Charles Miller Auctions, of Fulham.

Blubber being removed from a fin whale on the flensing deck

Another image taken a short time later shows the process after more blubber has been removed

The carcass after most of the blubber has been stripped away

A member of the crew is suited up in diving gear by his comrades

A crew member stands in the jaws of a dead sperm whale on the deck of the ship

A blue whale is taken aboard the ship to be processed by the crew

A crew member gets a haircut from a comrade on The Southern Venturer

A crew member with his makeshift drumkit on board The Southern Venturer

Seals basking in the sun on an island were also photographed during The Southern Venturer's voyage

The whaling operation at Leith Harbour in Scotland. The Southern Venturer was built there

A crew member who suffered a broken leg is winched ashore

A wider shot shows the injured crew member being winched off the Southern Venturer

They said Britain was dependent on whale oil and meat immediately post-war due to food shortages, with rationing remaining in place until 1954.

An auction house spokesperson said: 'The photos provide a fascinating, although at times, gory insight into the workings of a factory ship just after the Second World War when the country's dependence on whale oil and meat was at an all-time high.

'The 28-page album comprises a wide range of photos from this expedition to the Antarctic and depicts the working as well as social life on board.

'The important work of catching the whales and processing (dissecting) them is clearly shown including the removal of the blubber and the meat for cooking in steam pressure boilers and the conveyor belt used to transport those parts to the cooker.

'Other images include divers getting ready alongside their rafts and their equipment to make repairs, other whalers as well as scenes of the way of life at the Antarctic whaling stations.'

Auctioneer Charles Miller added: 'It is extremely unusual to find such a large quantity of fascinating photographs for this bygone era, which whilst perhaps shocking to modern eyes, was a vital and forgotten component to Britain's post-war economy.'

A wider image of the whaling station at Leith Harbour

Crew members from the Southern Venturer take part in a voyage

Robert James Hewer face to face with a penguin during a whaling exhibition

Some of the dramatic scenery photographed by the crew of the Southern Venturer

Robert James Hewer puffs on a cigarette while posing in a porthole on the Southern Venturer

Captain Henningsen with seals at Husvik Harbour in South Georgia

The whaling ship Petrel with a whale alongside

The memorial to explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton on South Georgia, where he died in 1922

The sale takes place on April 29.

During the First World War, around 58,000 whales were killed to fuel the war effort of Britain and its allies.

Whale oil was vital because it was Britain's main source of glycerine, which was used for making cordite.

Oils from whales were also used to make high quality lubricants.

Britain finally ceased whaling in 1963, nearly 20 years after global regulation body the International Whaling Commission was set up in Cambridge.

And the import of products made from whaling were banned a decade later.

It brought to an end more three and a half centuries of British involvement in the industry.

Commercial whaling was banned by the IWC in 1986. Norway, Iceland and Japan still allow the practice despite the prohibition.
The CEO of grocery store giant Kroger has been forced to resign over mysterious 'personal conduct.'

Rodney McMullen's departure was announced Monday morning. Bosses refused to detail the scandal beyond saying that it was 'unrelated to the business' and 'inconsistent with Kroger's policy on business ethics.'

McMullen, 64, alerted the board to his 'certain personal conduct' on February 21 this year.

Independent lawyers were drafted in to probe his behavior. Kroger insisted the scandal 'is not related to the company's financial performance, operations or reporting.'

Lead director Ronald Sargeant has been appointed interim CEO in the wake of McMullen's departure.

'As interim CEO, I am committed to working alongside our proven and experienced management team and dedicated associates to ensure Kroger continues providing exceptional value for our customers,' Sargent said.

The company, scheduled to report its fourth-quarter results on Thursday, said McMullen would not be eligible to receive a bonus payout for 2024.

Shares of Kroger, based in Cincinnati, fell nearly 1.5 percent by the opening bell on Monday.

CEO of grocery store giant Kroger, Rodney McMullen (pictured), has been forced to resign over mysterious 'personal conduct'

Shares of Kroger, based in Cincinnati, fell about 1.3 percent before the opening bell

The 64-year-old began his career with Kroger in 1978 as a part-time stock clerk and bagger at a store in Lexington, Kentucky.

He worked his way up through the company, becoming chief financial officer in 1995 and chief operating officer in 2009.

McMullen was named Kroger's CEO in 2014 and chairman in 2015. He held both positions until his dismissal.

He has an estimated net worth of at least $22.7 million and owns over 6,000 units of Kroger stock valued at over $1.6 million, according to Market Realist.

The 2024 IPS Executive Excess Report revealed his total compensation from Kroger in 2023 was $15.7 million.

Public records show he lives in a $1.5 million four-bedroom, seven-bathroom mansion in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his wife, Kathryn McMullen.

The couple met as students at the University of Kentucky and do not appear to have any children, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.

McMullen's resignation comes after Kroger's $25 billion merger with Albertsons fell apart in December.

McMullen was named Kroger's CEO in 2014 and chairman in 2015. He held both positions until his dismissal

The former CEO has an estimated net worth of at least $22.7 million and lives a $1.5 million mansion (pictured) in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his wife

The companies said a merger, which was originally proposed in 2022, would help them better compete with big retailers like Walmart, Costco and Amazon.

But the deal faced three separate legal challenges, including one filed by the Federal Trade Commission, which argued that if the companies combined it would reduce competition and push up grocery prices for consumers.

Both a federal and state judge blocked the deal on December 10, which would have been the largest grocery store merger in US history.

Albertsons then announced a lawsuit against Kroger, claiming that the company failed to exercise 'best efforts' and to take 'any and all actions' to secure regulatory approval of the proposed merger.

'Kroger's self-serving conduct, taken at the expense of Albertsons and the agreed transaction, has harmed Albertsons' shareholders, associates and consumers,"' said Tom Moriarty, Albertsons' general counsel, in a statement.

Kroger said that it disagrees with Albertsons 'in the strongest possible terms.'
Ofcom has threatened to 'step in' after the production company behind a now-disgraced BBC documentary admitted it had paid the family of a senior Hamas official.

In a scathing letter addressed to BBC Chair Samir Shah, the regulator warned that it had 'ongoing concerns' about the broadcaster's failings regarding sourcing for its controversial show.

It comes one day before the BBC's director-general Tim Davie and the corporation's chairman are expected to face tough questions from MPs when they appear in front of the culture, media and sport committee.

The programme, Gaza: How to Survive a War Zone, was removed from BBC iPlayer last month after it was revealed the child narrator, a 14-year-old boy named Abdullah, is the son of a senior Hamas official.

The corporation revealed on Thursday night that the boy's mother was paid by Hoyo Films 'via his sister's bank account' for his involvement in the documentary.

Counter terror police are currently 'assessing' whether 'police action' is necessary amidst concern licence-fee money ended up in pockets of terrorists.

This morning Ofcom's chairman Lord Michael Grade warned the BBC it was minded to intervene if they decide it 'necessary to do so'.

In a public letter Lord Grade explains: 'The BBC has publicly acknowledged there were serious failings in the production of this programme which have raised important questions that the BBC must answer.

Abdullah al-Yazouri (pictured), the documentary's narrator, is the son of a minister in the Hamas-run government

The row over the programme spilled onto the streets when protesters gathered outside the BBC's London headquarters

'Ofcom has ongoing concerns about the nature and gravity of these failings and the negative impact they have on the trust audiences place in the BBC's journalism.

'It is crucial that the causes of those errors are investigated, and that systems are put in place to ensure they can not recur.'

He adds: 'We will continue to keep the situation under close review and will expect regular updates from the BBC regarding both timeframes and progress and reserve the right to use our powers to step in should we feel it necessary to do so, given that the BBC Board has decided these to be internal investigations.'

Ofcom - Britain's communications regulator - has the power to impose sanctions, including fines, if it decides that Ofcom licensed broadcasters have 'seriously, deliberately, repeatedly or recklessly breached' its requirements.

Responding to the scandal, a spokesperson for the Campaign Against Antisemitism said: 'The BBC has admitted that licence fee funds went to a senior Hamas official's family, potentially in breach of the law.

'Amazingly, it is still being allowed to mark its own homework with an internal review, rather than an independent investigation.

'No other broadcaster would get away with this. Ofcom's intervention cannot come soon enough. It is time to do away altogether with the BBC's unique and absurd right to regulate itself, and make Ofcom the first port of call for complaints about the BBC.

'Until there is an independent investigation, the licence fee must be suspended.'

Following an initial internal review into the documentary the BBC published a statement last Thursday.

The co-director of Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone, was Yousef Hammash (pictured), who refers on his X page to the 'Israeli killing machine'

Ten-year-old Renad (pictured) also featured in the documentary, she is the daughter of a former captain in the Hamas-run police force

The corporation revealed on Thursday night that the boy's mother was paid by Hoyo Films 'via his sister's bank account' for his involvement in the documentary

It said: '[The review] has identified serious flaws in the making of this programme. Some of these were made by the production company, and some by the BBC; all of them are unacceptable. BBC News takes full responsibility for these.

It added: 'Hoyo Films have told us that they paid the boy's mother, via his sister's bank account, a limited sum of money for the narration.

'While Hoyo Films have assured us that no payments were made to members of Hamas or its affiliates, either directly, in kind, or as a gift, the BBC is seeking additional assurance around the budget of the programme and will undertake a full audit of expenditure.

'We are requesting the relevant financial accounts of the production company in order to do that.'

A spokesperson for Hoyo Films added: 'We are cooperating fully with the BBC and Peter Johnston to help understand where mistakes have been made.

'We feel this remains an important story to tell, and that our contributors - who have no say in the war - should have their voices heard.'

The BBC said this week it had not been aware of the narrator's family links during the making of the programme. It added that the independent production company had acknowledged it had never told the BBC of who the boy's father was.

The BBC has been contacted for further comment.
Major ports in Guangxi witness increasing border traffic between China, Vietnam

Xinhua) 09:58, March 03, 2025

An aerial drone photo shows vehicles waiting to pass through Youyiguan Port, or Friendship Pass, in Pingxiang City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 1, 2025. With the booming economic and trade cooperation between China and Vietnam, major border ports witness increasing border traffic. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua)

An aerial drone photo shows a view of Guangxi Pingxiang Integrated Free Trade Zone in Pingxiang City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 1, 2025. With the booming economic and trade cooperation between China and Vietnam, major border ports witness increasing border traffic. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua)

An aerial drone photo shows a view of Youyiguan Port, or Friendship Pass, in Pingxiang City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 1, 2025. With the booming economic and trade cooperation between China and Vietnam, major border ports witness increasing border traffic. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua)

An aerial drone photo shows a view of Guangxi Pingxiang Integrated Free Trade Zone in Pingxiang City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 1, 2025. With the booming economic and trade cooperation between China and Vietnam, major border ports witness increasing border traffic. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua)

An aerial drone photo shows vehicles waiting to pass through Youyiguan Port, or Friendship Pass, in Pingxiang City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, March 1, 2025. With the booming economic and trade cooperation between China and Vietnam, major border ports witness increasing border traffic. (Xinhua/Zhou Hua)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
President Donald Trump will arrive on Capitol Hill tonight to share his vision for America's next four years with Congress, the Supreme Court and the nation.

His remarks before all of the nation's people and politicos will be a seminal moment in the Republican's still young second term.

It will also be an opportunity to address his congressional Democratic detractors, who have protested his DOGE initiative, his kicking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky out of the White House and his foreign aid freeze, directly.

Within his first month, the president has deputized Elon Musk and DOGE to the top echelons of federal power, where they currently are working to dismantle what they deem as waste, fraud and abuse within the government.

Already over 100 legal cases are challenging many of the Trump-Musk government reforms, according to AP.

'I hope that the court system is going to allow us to do what we have to do,' Trump said in February.

The deluge of presidential actions Trump has undertaken to begin reforming the federal organs has, so far, earned the president a positive approval rating, according to the RealClear Politics average.

So during his address Tuesday evening the president will look to turn up the heat on his adversaries, praise his confidants and keep the Trump train rolling.

Flanked by Vice President Mike Pence and Speaker of the House Paul Ryan President Donald Trump delivers his Joint Address to Congress at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington D.C. Tuesday February 28 2017. Trump will return to the House floor on Tuesday for another joint address to Congress

Elon Musk and Donald Trump have been working to slash government spending through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), though many have attacked the pair as their efforts have laid off thousands of federal workers

When does Trump's joint address to Congress start?

Trump's joint address to Congress will begin at 9 pm ET on Tuesday March, 4.

DailyMail.com's coverage of the event will run all day.

Why is Trump's joint address not called the State of the Union?

A joint address to Congress and a State of the Union address are very similar.

However, as Trump has only been in power for about a month and a half, the president cannot really take credit for how the union is currently operating.

Instead, a president's first remarks before Congress during their term is just called a joint address. It is used by the commander-in-chief to layout his political agenda to the nation's top lawmakers.

Trump, having served as president before, is in a unique position to contrast his past tenure to that of Biden. He may compare and contrast his leadership to that of Biden.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat from California, right, ripped up a copy of Trump's speech after he gave his last State of the Union in February 2020

When is Trump's State of the Union speech?

Trump's next State of the Union speech is expected to happen in either February or March 2026.

Who will attend Trump's joint address to Congress?

The joint address will be attended by congressional lawmakers, Supreme Court justices, Trump administration officials and special guests invited by the politicians.

Typically, the president invites special guests that have been impacted by their policies or have helped their campaigns.

The family of Laken Riley, a Georgia nursing student that was raped and killed by an illegal immigrant in 2024, and who is the namesake for an immigration reform bill passed during Trump's first week, is expected to attend, a source familiar with the planning has told DailyMail.com.

Democrats, meanwhile, are planning on inviting Americans negatively impacted by Trump's agenda, like federal workers that have been laid off due to DOGE.

Lawmakers and Supreme Court justices listen to Trump during his first joint address to Congress in February 2017

What will Trump say in his speech?

Given that Trump has only been in office for a little over a month, he is expected to lay out his vision for ushering in America's next 'golden age.'

He will likely praise his friend Musk's work at DOGE. The group has already cut an estimated $105 billion dollars in spending, according to the cost-cutting group's site.

The Republican is also expected to talk about his efforts ramping up deportations and cutting back illegal immigration.

There's much he could say on the matter, after he promised to carry out the largest deportation effort in U.S. history, but he will almost certainly hone in on recent data from the Department of Homeland Security showing a massive drop in illegal crossings.

In February 2025, there were just around 8,326 illegal border crossings, Trump claims.

In February 2024, under Joe Biden, there were 190,000 encounters with migrants crossing the border.

A Border Patrol agent looks for footprints along the floating US border wall in Imperial County, California, 27 February, 2025. With Trump signing multiple executive actions to overhaul parts of the US immigration system, including how migrants are processed and deported, the southern border has seen a massive slow down in migrants trying to cross over

Trump has also announced a sweeping batch of tariffs on China, Mexico and Canada, saying they did not do enough to counter fentanyl smuggling into the U.S.

His threats prompted officials from the later two to rush to Washington, but China has taken the tariffs on the chin.

Canada announced the creation of the 'fentanyl czar' to appease the president, while Mexico deployed troops to the U.S.-Mexico border to clamp down on cartel operations. In exchange Trump delayed tariffs on Mexico and Canada for one month.

That one month hiatus expires on Tuesday, so the president presumably will address whether or not he will move forward with the tariffs.

Trump also has noted he may add an additional 10 percent tariff onto the existing 10 percent tariff China's currently paying on Tuesday.

Who will deliver the Democratic response?

Freshman Michigan Sen. Elissa Slotkin will deliver the Democratic response to Trump's remarks following the joint address.

Slotkin was formerly a member of the House of Representatives before winning a seat in the Senate in November.
Sir Keir Starmer has declared a 'coalition of the willing' is ready to enforce a peace deal in Ukraine and help deter future Russian attacks.

The Prime Minister this weekend said those countries signed up to his peacekeeping blueprint would 'intensify' their planning 'with real urgency'.

He added he was ready to commit British 'boots on the ground and planes in the air' as he called on Europe to 'do the heavy lifting' in support of Kyiv.

It follows suggestions that UK troops could form part of a 30,000-strong European peacekeeping force within Ukraine.

RAF Typhoons might also be deployed to help patrol Ukrainian skies, while Royal Navy ships could be sent to the Black Sea to deter another Russian assault.

The frantic rush to develop a peackeeping plan comes amid fears that US President Donald Trump is poised to abandon both Europe and Ukraine.

His administration has told European nations to shoulder greater responsibility for both their own and Ukraine's security.

Mr Trump's stance has prompted speculation that France might deploy nuclear-armed fighter jets to Germany to widen Europe's nuclear shield.

And, despite calls for a US 'backstop' for a peace deal, it has been suggested that American security guarantees might only take the form of a minerals deal with Kyiv.

The UK and France are taking the lead in drafting the peacekeeping plans, but there are doubts over the role that other countries - such as Italy and Poland - might play.

So, as the scramble to draw up a blueprint continues, here's how a peacekeeping plan is shaping up so far...

Your browser does not support iframes.

Troops on the ground

Sir Keir's willingness to send British troops to Ukraine could see them join a multi-national peacekeeping force that will reportedly be 30,000-strong in size.

Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky has claimed 110,000 foreign troops might be needed to secure peace due to the huge size of Ukraine's border with Russia - but some experts disagree.

Jack Watling, of the Royal United Services Institute, and Michal Kofman, of Carnegie Endowment, said a foreign peacekeeping force 'does not need to be everywhere'.

'It needs to have a presence on three directions, and with sufficient mobility to redeploy as necessary along the front,' they wrote in a joint article.

'Any future Russian attack would invariably be along several predictable directions.

'Today, most of the fighting is concentrated typically along three to four sectors of the front at a time.

'Hence, a relatively small force package can be sufficient for introducing risk into Russian calculus.

'The most obvious directions would be Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Donetsk.

'Western formations would deploy to these regions not as frontline troops, but as supporting echelons backing Ukrainian forces.'

They added that the 'significant degradation' in Russian forces during the last three years of conflict meant a smaller peacekeeping force might suffice immediately.

But they added that bigger troop numbers were likely to be committed by European nations due to the need to rotate their forces in and out of Ukraine.

Sir Keir Starmer has declared a 'coalition of the willing' is ready to enforce a peace deal in Ukraine and help deter future Russian attacks

British Army commandos are pictured firing mortars during recent training in Norway

Air policing

It was recently reported that Britain could send RAF Typhoon fighter jets to police Ukrainian skies as part of a peace deal.

A UK-led effort could be modelled on NATO missions already taking place over the Baltics, with fighter jets potentially based in Poland.

According to The Times, UK ministers have discussed ways of providing security guarantees without the need for large numbers of troops on the ground.

A senior Government source told the newspaper there could be an 'air policing' mission, along with air defence systems to protect jets over Ukrainian skies.

An RAF source said this was more likely than a no-fly zone, which would require aircraft to patrol the skies 24 hours a day.

Instead, an 'air policing' mission would involve aircraft 'armed to the teeth' and ready to scramble.

Britain could send RAF Typhoon fighter jets to police Ukrainian skies as part of a peace deal. A UK-led effort could be modelled on NATO missions already taking place over the Baltics

In-country training for Ukrainian troops

In their article for the War on the Rocks website, Watling and Kofman suggested - under a peace deal - there could be boosted training for Ukrainian troops.

Tens of thousands of Ukrainians have been trained on British soil under 'Operation Interflex' since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.

But this could be moved to within Ukraine's borders if a ceasefire is agreed, the experts said.

'Britain's 11 Security Force Assistance Brigade, which is the unit at the core of that effort, should also be deployed,' they added.

'This would address Ukraine's longtime request for greater in-country training of its forces, and adaptation of its basic training regimen.'

A US 'backstop'

Sir Keir has consistently said a US 'backstop' is needed for a Ukraine peace deal.

But, amid concerns about Mr Trump's wavering support for Kyiv, there are doubts over whether this will take the form of US military commitment.

The US President himself has suggested that Russia's Vladimir Putin would 'keep his word' on a peace agreement if he succeeds in signing a minerals deal with Ukraine.

Mr Trump argued that US workers extracting critical minerals in the country would act as a security backstop to deter Russia from invading again.

He said: 'I don't think anybody's going to play around if we're there with a lot of workers and having to do with rare earths and other things which we need for our country.'

US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's Voldomyr Zelensky have clashed over the signing of a minerals deal

A Black Sea deterrent

Mr Zelensky has suggested a European peackeeping force could include Royal Navy ships being deployed to the Black Sea to deter a new Russian attack.

The Ukrainian President also touted the possibility of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden joining such an effort.

'Ideally, our partners who are professionals at sea - Britain, the Nordics, etc. if they are experts, it would be best if they were in the sea,' he told the Munich Security Conference last month.

A widened nuclear shield

As the US threatens to withdraw its support for European security, it has been suggested that France is ready to use its nuclear deterrent to protect the continent.

French fighter jets carrying nuclear weapons could potentially be deployed to Germany in order to widen Europe's nuclear shield amid the threat from Russia.

But leading opposition politician Marine Le Pen has attacked the suggestion that France's nuclear warheads could be pooled to help protect Europe.

'French defence must remain French defence,' she said.

The site of a missile attack last year on the Black Sea port city of Odesa

Who will be part of Sir Keir's 'coalition of the willing'?

Britain and France have taken a leading role in drawing up a peacekeeping plan for Ukraine - but, as yet, it is unclear what other countries might take part.

Sweden and Turkey have both said they would be open to providing peacekeeping troops in Ukraine.

The Baltic states - Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia - and Finland could also be involved, while, from outside of Europe, Canada is another possible contributor.

But Poland, Spain and Germany are not expected to commit troops, while Italian PM Giorgia Meloni has previously clashed with France's Emmanuel Macron over the issue.
The YouTuber who has been warned by police after a confrontation with ex-Apprentice star Luisa Zissman is part of a worrying new trend known as 'auditing' that sees creators harass innocent landowners and security guards to create controversial videos.

Harry Holton is part of the 'auditors' craze that has swept across Britain and has previously attempted to fly his drone over Premier League side Aston Villa's training ground.

The vlogger's H Audit social media channels are littered with angry confrontational videos of failed attempts to take pictures while he is on private property.

They are designed to attract hundreds of thousands of clicks and can bring in hefty advertising revenue when viewed on YouTube and TikTok.

Holton's recent offering where he targeted mother-of-three Luisa, 37, on her sprawling Grade II-listed country estate has already clocked more than four million views on TikTok alone.

But the Apprentice star has fought back and last night is thought to have travelled nearly two hours to track down his home address.

The 'auditing' trend took off in the US and started to make waves in Britain last year and has self-proclaimed auditors attracting subscriber lists in the hundreds of thousands.

Holton's YouTube account has 13,000 subscribers which is significantly fewer than one of the most popular 'auditors', called Auditing Britain, which has 256,000 subscribers.

Are you a victim of a drone 'auditor'?: Email matt.strudwick@mailonline.co.uk

Harry Holton pictured on his bike on Luisa Zissman's private property where he was involved in a heated confrontation with the Apprentice star

Apprentice star Luisa Zissman was involved in an extraordinary bust-up with the YouTuber after he tried to fly a drone over her country estate

Holton is part of the 'auditors' craze that has swept across Britain and has previously attempted to fly his drone over Premier League side Aston Villa's training ground (pictured)

The vlogger's social media channels are littered with angry confrontational videos of failed attempts to take pictures while he is on private property

His most 'popular' video titled 'Drone DESTRUCTION - Above the law' saw him target gated Grade-I stately home Apethorpe Palace in Northamptonshire. It has racked up 120,000 views on YouTube.

The Jacobean English Heritage manor was bought in 2015 for 2.5million by French professor, diplomat and academic, Jean Christophe Iseux, Baron von Pfetten.

Holton uses the same playbook as he did against Zissman where he insists flying his drone over the 'gorgeous place' to take pictures before sparking an ugly row.

At one point a woman who identifies herself as 'the Baroness' stands behind the locked gates and asks him to 'go away, please' to which he rudely snaps: 'Why don't you go away? I don't want to look at you anymore.'

An argument ensues where he taunts 'oh well, let's get this drone in the sky then' provoking the angry Baroness to grab hold of the aircraft and causing it to break.

Worried police chiefs last year issued officers with official guidance on how to handle members of the public who have taken to relentlessly filming outside police stations as well as other public and private sector buildings.

The video-makers say they are checking up on organisations' performance including health and safety compliance while also asserting the right to film and take photographs on public land - and their clips can bring in hefty advertising revenue when watched on sites such as YouTube or TikTok.

But the incidents can escalate into angry confrontations, most recently when a furious chemical company boss tried to smash a drone controller after catching a 'hobbyist auditor' snooping on his PPE use.

A man (pictured) tried to hit the drone controller out of auditor DJ Audits' hand when filming at Libra Speciality Chemicals Ltd in Manchester last year

More staff were seen rushing out to confront the YouTuber and asking him to leave, in one of a soaring number of online videos posted by self-styled 'auditors' filming outside buildings

The drone and controller are pictured on the pavement after the clash which was posted online

Some of the most popular auditing YouTube accounts feature footage outside police stations across the UK, embassies, shopping centres and City of London institutions.

Auditing Britain has videos including footage of Kensington police station in west London as well as officers in Walworth, south London, Hertfordshire and Essex.

DJ Audits, one of Britain's leading YouTube auditors, went to Libra Speciality Chemicals Ltd in Manchester last year to 'check their compliance' with health and safety.

But after he began to film the chemical site using his GoPro and drone, company staff swiftly came out of the workplace to confront him and question his right to record their business.

DJ Audits, who refused to reveal his identity, informed staff that he did not need their permission as he was filming on 'public property'.

An argument ensued and a man who staffers identified as their 'boss' tried to hit the drone controller out of the auditor's hand as he told him to 'f**k off now'.

Zissman and Holton's extraordinary bust-up went viral over the weekend after he travelled to her private property to fly his drone because he 'found it online' and liked 'the beauty of it'.

It saw Luisa threaten to 'shoot down' his drone before both made common assault allegations to police.

She last night took to her Instagram page to publicly name Holton before making a 500 offer to the person who could tell her his address as it's 'cheaper me doing this than paying lawyers to do it'.

Luisa later told her 688,000 followers she had 'just been to Harry's house' as she warned: 'Oh this petty Polly will not let sleeping dogs lie.'

The journey is thought to have taken her nearly two hours.

The retail entreprenuer then posted a selfie alongside a picture of what appeared to be his front door with a strongly worded warning to the YouTuber.

Luisa warned: 'Just in case Harry thinks I'm calling his bluff, here is me outside your house. I won't post your address online, nor will I knock on your door, harass you, film you without consent on your property.

A row between Luisa Zissman and a YouTuber has taken a bizarre twist after The Apprentice star claimed to have tracked down his house

Luisa later told her 688,000 followers she had 'just been to Harry's house' as she warned: 'Oh this petty Polly will not let sleeping dogs lie'

'In fact I stayed on the public areas and didn't even step foot onto your property. But hunny let me tell you. This bit*h is crazy and the most annoying tenacious crazy you're ever going to have had the pleasure of meeting.'

MailOnline has contacted Holton through his H Audit YouTube account for comment.

Holton on Saturday posted a jawdropping video on his social media channels in which he sits on his bike on a gravel path as a clearly upset and agitated Luisa pleads that her 'life is very private'.

But he insists 'I'm not going to fly it from here, I'm just going to go down the track' before she says he is on her private property.

Luisa then threatens to 'get the gun and shoot your drone down' if he goes ahead.

'I will shoot your drone,' she says.

'We have a gun, we have a gun licence. We shoot deers, we shoot foxes, we shoot rabbits. And drones. Because you are flying your drone over my private property.'

Asked by the YouTuber if she has done it before, Luisa says: 'No one has been stupid enough to come fly a drone... but yeah Ian [the estate manager] has actually shot a drone before.

The mother-of-three, 37, confronted the content creator known as 'H Audit' after he travelled to her sprawling Grade II-listed property because he 'found it online' and liked 'the beauty of it'

The Apprentice runner-up took to Instagram yesterday following the expletive bust-up where she posted a picture of herself taking part in clay shooting with the caption 'come to mumma'

'He is not in, Ian's our estate manager who is probably getting the gun now. So if you want your expensive drone shot down, go ahead and fly it and we will shoot it.'

Luisa threatens to carry out a citizens arrest and detain him as things become more heated saying: 'I'm about to kick you off your bike.'

She then moves into his path as he tries to edge further up the track and grabs hold of his handlebars.

An angry Luisa yells: 'Yeah, I'm restricting your movement. I'll f***ing take your bike.'

Holton says he will call the police as he points and shouts for everyone to 'get off me now'.

The Apprentice runner-up took to Instagram on Sunday following the expletive bust-up in which she made a series of allegations.

She claimed Holton did not post the full footage in which she alleged he shoved her with his bike on her estate that 'clearly' has two signposts stating it is private property.

'How someone can trespass onto MY property and then be upset when I stand up for my property and privacy blows my mind,' she wrote.

'And how anyone can defend his antagonistic actions, trespass and blatant disregard of the law needs to get in the bin.'

Luisa took part in the ninth series of The Apprentice where she finished runner-up to Leah Totton in the final

Luisa Zissman is pictured here attending the 26th National Television Awards at the O2 in London on September 9 2021

In a defiant defence of her actions, she said she was always on 'high alert' having previously having to deal with death, acid attack, and kidnapping threats.

'For some jumped up little p**** to come and try and gain entry to film my property is horrific,' she said.

Luisa later posted a picture of herself taking part in clay shooting with the caption 'come to mumma'.

A patrol car with blue flashing lights and a siren blaring is seen in another video pulling up outside the home.

A police officer talks to Holton at the roadside and warns him Luisa has alleged he assaulted before he makes a counter allegation.

He then warns the YouTuber he is 'under suspicion of an allegation' and will be 'coming to the police station' after he refused to provide the cop with his details.

It is unclear when the fracas took place but the videos were posted onto social media yesterday.

Holton has more than 50,000 followers across his YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram accounts.

Luisa, an entrepreneur and mother of three with 688,000 Instagram followers, finished second in the 2013 series of the BBC's The Apprentice and then fourth in Channel 5's Celebrity Big Brother the foillowing year.

Since 2015 she has been married to Irish businessman Andrew Collins, having previously been wed to entrepreneur Oliver Zissman between 2009 and 2014.

Luisa has been a regular presence on TV shows including This Morning, Good Morning Britain, Loose Women and Big Brother's Bit On The Side.

The Milton Keynes-born businesswoman has pursued ventues including a bakery website, an eBay electronics store and a cupcake shop.

MailOnline has contacted Essex Police for comment.

Are you a victim of a drone 'auditor'?: Email matt.strudwick@mailonline.co.uk
A mother and father were arrested after their one-year-old son plunged headfirst into a bucket of bleach.

The toddler was left unconscious and fighting for his life after after the horrific accident, which authorities allege occurred while the distracted parents left the toddler unattended.

Scott Marcov, 30, and wife Madelyn, 28, were charged on Tuesday with neglect over terrifying incident at the 'filthy' Iowa home on October 1.

Police rushed to the family's home in Dubuque - later discovered to be infested with mice and garbage - following the parent's frantic 911 calls about an unconscious infant, according to a criminal complaint obtained by Fox8.

Investigators discovered the baby's head had been submerged in toxic bleach water for an 'undisclosed amount of time.'

The child's father was in the bathroom and his mother was in the living room at the time of the incident, according to the criminal complaint.

It was only when another child in the home carried the unconscious toddler toward the living room and desperately yelled for help that his mother finally called 911, as reported by KCRG.

Scott Marcov (pictured) 30, and wife Madelyn, 28, were arrested on Tuesday and charged with neglect after the terrifying incident at their Iowa home on October 1

The couple's one-year-old boy was left unconscious and fighting for his life after plunging headfirst into a bucket of bleach water in a while his parents were distracted, authorities revealed (Madelyn pictured)

The parents lived in the home with the baby and two other kids, ages 6 and 4.

The child was rushed to hospital where doctors were forced to intubate him before transferring him to a specialist facility at the University of Iowa Hospital.

He had 'acute respiratory failure' and 'loss of consciousness' according to the affidavit.

When officers executed a search warrant at the family's home, they described their home as 'filthy' with live mice scurrying across floors while a dead mouse in the kitchen.

Investigators also documented garbage and rotting food strewn across countertops and floors throughout the residence.

Officers shockingly found a used diaper inside a cooking pot on the kitchen counter.

Both parents now face charges of neglect or abandonment of a dependent person.

In December, an eight-year-old girl revealed her toddler sister's heartbreaking reaction when their mom allegedly demanded they drink bleach.

The child was rushed to hospital where doctors were forced to intubate him before transferring him to a specialist facility at the University of Iowa Hospital (pictured)

Investigators discovered the baby's head had been submerged in toxic bleach water for an 'undisclosed amount of time.' He had 'acute respiratory failure' and 'loss of consciousness' according to the affidavit (Stock photo)

Joanne Zephir was found unconscious in her car with her daughters, aged three and eight years old, on 8 May 2022 after she allegedly forced the children to drink bleach mixed with milk.

Zephir's eight-year-old surviving daughter has since revealed her little sister had called the mixture 'yucky' before she was viciously strangled and died, reported Law & Crime.

She told investigators that she drank three big sips before vomiting, described it as smelling bad, like pickles, and said it burned her tongue, according to documents.

'Joanne told her the milk was good for her, and she had to drink it and then proceeded to make the three-year-old drink about half the bottle of milk,' officials said.

The daughter told investigators that their mom had picked the two girls up from their aunt's house and drove them to the parking lot where they were found.

The mother was already facing an arrest warrant for attempted murder at the time after her husband, who also survived, was stabbed, according to the Osceola County Sheriff's Office.
This is the moment terrified shoppers ran away screaming after a car ploughed into a crowd of people in Mannheim, leaving two dead and at least 14 injured.

Shaky footage shows dozens of people rapidly leaving buildings and dashing down the roads in the German city after the horrific incident.

Shoppers desperately fled the scene in the Paradeplatz area of downtown Mannheim after two people were killed when the car smashed through the group.

It remains unclear exactly how many people were wounded in the incident - initially it was 25 had been injured, 15 of them seriously, German newspaper Bild earlier reported.

Several people were seen lying on the ground in the aftermath, with two people apparently being resuscitated, an eye witness told Reuters.

Another witness, sitting at a restaurant on Paradeplatz at the time, told Welt that 'all hell broke loose'.

He said he did not see the crash, but 'people running away in panic' and police everywhere, even on the roofs.

Authorities revealed this afternoon that that they had arrested a 40-year-old German man after the incident. Reports have stated that the suspect was believed to be armed and was arrested around 30 minutes after the deadly attack.

The clip captured shoppers making the mad dash down the street to flee the scene

Footage shows dozens of people fleeing a major incident in Mannheim, Germany today

Police investigators check a damaged car at the scene after a vehicle was driven to pedestrians in Mannheim

Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, after a serious incident, Monday March 3, 2025

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'At the current stage of the investigation, the perpetrator is a lone perpetrator who has already been arrested. Evidence of a second perpetrator cannot be confirmed at this time. There is currently no danger to the population!,' Mannheim Police wrote in a post to X.

A police spokesperson at the scene told Welt that they could not yet rule out a second attack, but almost all streets and bridges leading out of the city are being controlled by police with submachine guns, while a helicopter circles over Mannheim.

The city center should be avoided 'on a large scale,' the police wrote in a post on Twitter/X.

The incident occurred as crowds gathered in cities across regions including Germany's Rhineland for parades to mark the carnival season.

Police were on high alert for this year's carnival parades after social media accounts connected to ISIS called for attacks on the events in Cologne and Nuremberg.

Mannheim's University Hospital meanwhile said that it was preparing for a possible mass accident with multiple casualties, according to Welt.

Eight trauma teams have been brought together for both adult and child potential victims of the incident.

Mannheim police said in a statement on Monday: 'There is currently a police operation in Mannheim city center, in the area around Wasserturm/Plankenkopf.

'Police and rescue services are on their way. Further information is not yet available. In this context, there may be temporary traffic disruptions in the city centre.'

Police would not disclose what prompted the large law enforcement presence in the city center but a spokesperson said the incident had been reported as 'a life-threatening deployment situation.'

Police spokesperson Stefan Wilhelm told n-tv television that an 'incident' occurred at around 12:15 p.m. in the Paradeplatz area of downtown Mannheim that triggered a large police deployment. He said he couldn't give details.

Authorities pushed an alert on the Katwarn app telling people in Mannheim to avoid the city's downtown area due to a big police deployment.

A general view shows the scene after a SUV vehicle was driven into pedestrians in Mannheim, Germany, 03 March 2025

Mounted police patrol near the scene after a car drove into a crowd, in Mannheim, Germany

Emergency workers stand by during a major operation in the city center of Mannheim, Germany

File photo. Mannheim police near the scene where several people were attacked in 2024

Katwarn is used by officials to communicate information about major emergencies such as thunderstorms, militant attacks or fires.

Security has been a key concern in Germany following a string of violent attacks in recent weeks, including deadly car rammings in Magdeburg in December and in Munich last month, as well as a stabbing in Mannheim in May 2024.

Mannheim was blighted by a mass stabbing when a man ambushed and attacked several people at a rally hosted by the anti-Islam Citizen's Movement Pax Europe group.

At least 39 people, including a two-year-old child, were also injured in Munich last month when a man drove a car into a crowd of 1,000 strikers.

Footage from the scene captured the moment the driver was arrested, as cops swarmed the vehicle and pinned him to the ground.

It came just weeks after a car drove into a group of people at a Christmas market in the German city of Magdeburg, killing at least six and injuring nearly 70.

In December, the country was also rocked by an attack in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, when a 28-year-old man stabbed a two-year-old boy and a passerby to death in a German park.

Two people were killed and three injured, police said.

There was no initial suggestion Monday's incident in Mannheim was a deliberate attack.

Mannheim, population 326,000, lies about 85 kilometers (52 miles) south of Frankfurt.
A gang carried out a 2.8m heist at an art museum in Geneva just weeks before they allegedly shot the man responsible for Britain's biggest ever armed robbery at his luxury home, a court heard.

Paul Allen, then 41, was paralysed for life after two bullets were fired through the kitchen window of his large detached rented home in Woodford Green, East London, on July 11 2019, hitting him in the neck.

The former cage fighter had moved to the area after serving an 18 year prison sentence for his part in the 54 million heist at the Securitas depot in Tonbridge, Kent in 2006.

Louis Ahearne, 36, his brother Stewart Ahearne, 46, and accomplice Daniel Kelly, 46, are accused of plotting to murder him with others unknown.

On Monday, jurors heard agreed facts about the defendants' 'previous criminality' relating to a burglary at the Museum of Far Eastern Arts in Geneva on June 1 2019 - a month before Mr Allen was shot.

Three pieces of Ming-era porcelain were snatched from a Swiss museum with a combined insurance value of $3.58 million.

A white 'vase', actually a bottle with the secret pomegranate decoration, is worth 2 million and dates from the Ming Era from the 15th century - as does a small wine cup known as the 'chicken cup'.

The third item was a An Huan phoenix bowl, dated during the Hongwu reign from the 14th century.

Louis Ahearne, 36, (left) his brother Stewart Ahearne, 46 (centre) and Daniel Kelly, 46, are accused of plotting to murder former cage fighter Paul Allen

Convicted armed robber Paul Allen, 41, was hit by two bullets at his large detached house in Woodford, east London on 11 July 2019, leaving him paralysed for life

The Ahearne brothers previously admitted to stealing valuable Ming dynasty artifacts from a museum in Geneva in a daring heist on June 1 2019, a month before the attack on Mr Allen. Pictured: one of the artifacts, a white porcelin 'vase' - actually a bottle of the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty - worth 2 million

According to the facts read out by the prosecution, Kelly and Louis Ahearne had flown into Geneva from London the day before the raid.

That afternoon, Louis Ahearn had carried out reconnaissance at the museum and made a video of Room 3 on his mobile phone.

The next day, Stewart Ahearne joined the other two defendants and hired a Renault at the airport, jurors were told.

They went on to buy tools and clothes before carrying out the burglary at 11.21pm.

Jurors heard they arrived in the Renault equipped with masks, gloves, two forehead lamps, an angle-grinder, crowbar and sledgehammer.

They entered the building through a hole which they made by smashing two lower panels on the museum's main door.

Police later identified DNA around the hole as belonging to Stewart Ahearne, the court was told.

The defendants headed to Room 3, which was referred to as the Ming Porcelain room, forced open display case 13 using the sledgehammer and crowbar and seized the three Ming dynasty antiques.

Another of the three items stolen by Louis and Stewart Ahearne was this small wine cup known as the 'chicken cup'

Mr Allen was the trusted lieutenant of fellow cage fighter Lee 'Lightning' Murray (pictured), who masterminded the 53 million robbery on the Securitas depot in Tonbridge, Kent in 2006

Mr Allen's gang targeted the giant Securitas warehouse in Tonbridge, Kent, which employed 80 people, sorting out old and new banknotes for distribution to cash machines and banks all over south-east England (pictured, CCTV from the heist)

Afterwards, attempts were made to dispose of the stolen goods, jurors were told.

The defendants flew to Hong Kong on June 14 2019 where they attempted to sell the phoenix bowl at an auction house.

On October 16 2020, Stewart Ahearne was arrested with another man at a London hotel as they tried to sell the Ming vase to an undercover police officer.

A later search of a property revealed a passport in the name of Stewart Ahearne and a book on Ming Dynasty antiques, the court was told.

Previously, jurors have heard how two of the defendants were involved in another burglary in Kent the day before Mr Allen was shot.

A Renault Captur was hired by Stewart Ahearne from a dealership in Dartford and used by the other two defendants in a burglary on a gated community in Kent, the court has heard.

The prosecution has alleged the background to the shooting was that Mr Allen was a 'sophisticated' career criminal.

He was convicted at Woolwich Crown Court for his part in Britain's biggest armed robbery, at Securitas in Kent, in which 54 million in cash was stolen, much of which has never been recovered, the court has heard.

A general view of the Museum of Far Eastern Art. Swiss authorities say the culprits were wearing masks and gloves when they broke into the museum

By 2019, Mr Allen had been released from prison and moved from south London to a large detached property in Woodford, north-east London, where he lived with his partner and young children.

The defendants had allegedly travelled from their home turf in the Woolwich area of south-east London, through the Blackwall Tunnel to the victim's new home in Malvern Drive as part of the planning and execution of the conspiracy to murder him.

Louis Ahearne, from Greenwich, south-east London, and Stewart Ahearne and Kelly, both of no fixed address, have denied conspiring to murder Mr Allen between June 26 and July 12 2019.

The trial continues.
Casey Anthony shared a puzzling TikTok video 'reintroducing herself' as a legal advocate, sparking an immense uproar from angry viewers.

Casey, 38, garnered the nation's attention when she was accused of killing her two-year-old daughter Caylee in 2008.

The controversial mother - who was spotted partying just days after her toddler went missing - was acquitted of murder charges in 2011.

On Saturday, she broke her social media silence to go on a three-and-a-half-minute tangent, ultimately promoting the launch of her Substack account.

'Raw, uncut, unfiltered,' she captioned the post. 'It's time we stand in the light together.'

She started off by saying the video is 'the first of many' to come in a new series. She did not specify what kind of series it will be.

'I am a legal advocate, I am a researcher, I've been in the legal field since 2011,' she asserted as she sat in her car.

'In this capacity, I feel that it's necessary if I'm going to continue to operate appropriately as a legal advocate that I start to advocate for myself and also advocate for my daughter.'

Casey Anthony shared a puzzling TikTok to 'reintroduce herself' as a legal advocate, sparking an immense uproar from angry viewers

Casey garnered the nation's attention when she accused of killing her two-year-old daughter Caylee in 2008

She went on to say her announcement is not a response to anything her parents George and Cindy have done, possibly alluding to accusations made by Casey that George was abusive towards her and Caylee.

Casey had also accused her father of being involved in Caylee's death and disposing of her body.

'The whole point of this is to begin to reintroduce myself. I'm doing this both personally for me, but in a professional capacity,' she claimed.

'My goal is to continue to help give a voice to people, to give people tools and resources that they can utilize so they actually know where they can turn to.'

Casey declared she is a 'proponent for the LGBTQ community' and 'women's rights' after vaguely describing how people in her inner circle 'have been targeted and attacked.'

She continued: 'I feel that it's important that I use this platform that was thrust upon me, and now look at it as a blessing as opposed to the curse that it has been since 2008.'

Casey urged viewers to subscribe to her Substack and claimed she is going to set up an email to speak with people about their legal complications directly.

Shifting focus to her person goals, the she said as her internet presence expands, she will prioritize her privacy.

Caylee was last seen alive on June 16, 2008, and was reported missing to the Orange County Sheriff's Office by Cindy nearly a month later

Casey was acquitted on the first-degree murder count, as well as the manslaughter and child abuse charges during her trial

'I am proverbially standing in the light, embracing this peace - still going to keep my privacy intact,' Casey said in the cryptic video.

'I will explain in great detail why it's so important for people to protect their privacy.'

From there, she spoke about Substack again, alleging it is a safer medium than Instagram, Facebook or Tiktok.

'With the current climate in our country especially, [privacy] is that much more important, which is why I am utilizing the Substack platform,' she said.

Substack is 'a subscription-based platform that lets writers publish newsletters, podcasts, and videos directly to their audience,' according to its website. Casey's account has 680 subscribers.

Her bio reads: 'It has been more than 16 years since my name became a household one.

'Everyone seems to have an opinion - about me, and about my life. I am an advocate, a researcher. These are my words, this is my REAL life.'

Casey has disabled her TikTok comment section on the Saturday video, but passionate viewers did not hold back when they shared their reactions on X.

In Casey's TikTok, she said she was not directly addressing anything her parents, George and Cindy, have done

'If you're in prison does that count as being in the "legal field"?' one user wrote, questioning Casey's credibility as an advocate.

Another person commented: 'If there was ever a "nobody cares what you think" ranking system, she's probably somewhere near the top.'

'How in the world could she have thought this was a good idea?' someone chimed in.

Despite being adamant about people following her on Substack, many of the its users have not warmly welcomed the infamous mother.

'Casey, you want us to know of you but to forget about your story, what made you infamous and why you were in jail. Please. Your opinion is one that we can all live without out,' a woman wrote under one of Casey's messages.

Another person questioned: 'You only seem to be advocating for yourself. What about your daughter?'

Caylee was last seen alive on June 16, 2008, and was reported missing to the Orange County Sheriff's Office by Cindy nearly a month later on July 15.

In a 911 call, the grandmother told dispatchers she had not seen Caylee for 31 days and that she had smelled a foul odor emanating from her daughter's car - as if a dead body was inside it.

On Saturday, she broke her social media silence to go on a bizarre a three-and-a-half-minute tangent, ultimately to promote her Substack account

Casey lied to detectives and said Caylee had been kidnapped by a nanny on June 9

Cindy revealed Casey, who was 21 at the time, had given inconsistent explanations about the child's whereabouts. Eventually, she admitted to Cindy that she had not seen Caylee for weeks.

Casey was arrested on July 16, 2008, and questioned at Orange County Jail.

She lied to detectives and said Caylee had been kidnapped by a nanny on June 9. She claimed she was trying to find her but was too frazzled to tell police.

Casey said the nanny was named Zenaida Fernandez-Gonzalez. However, it was soon determined she never had a nanny and the woman, an acquaintance of Casey's, had never met her daughter.

Casey was charged with giving false statements to law enforcement, child neglect and obstruction of a criminal investigation the next day. She was initially denied bail by a judge.

Her bail was later set at $500,000 at a bond hearing on July 22, 2008, and she was released a month later when the money was posted by the nephew of a California bail bondsman.

In October 2008, she was indicted on charges of first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, aggravated manslaughter of a child and four counts of providing false information to police, and was arrested again.

Meanwhile, cops and thousands of volunteers combed Orange County and Greater Orlando for the child, whose remains were found in a trash bag on December 11, 2008, with more remains found in nearby woods close to the family's home.

Caylee's remains were found in a trash bag on December 11, 2008, with more remains found in nearby woods close to the family's home

The jurors found Casey guilty on four counts of providing false information to police - landing her a four-year prison sentence

About a week later, it was confirmed that the body parts were Caylee's.

Casey was acquitted on the first-degree murder count, as well as the manslaughter and child abuse charges during her trial.

The jurors did, however, find her guilty on four counts of providing false information to police - landing her a four-year prison sentence.

Anthony was given credit for time served in prison and was released on July 17, 2011, 12 days after the trial's conclusion.
Nigel Farage is today facing a major backlash after accusing Ukraine's president of triggering a major televised row with Donald Trump at the White House.

The Reform UK leader, a vocal cheerleader for the US president, was branded 'morally wrong' for an attack on Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview this morning.

Mr Trump sparked global outrage by accusing Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with World War Three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putin's invasion.

Mr Farage said the Kyiv leader had 'played it very badly' in the row last Friday, which also included vice president JD Vance in front of assembled reported in the Oval Office.

Speaking to LBC Mr Farage also accused the fatigue-wearing war commander of 'bowling up and showing no respect' to Trump by not wearing a suit and tie, adding: 'I wouldn't expect a guest to be rude to me in my own house.'

Keir Starmer this afternoon took aim at Mr farage during a statement to MPs.

After Mr Farage asked if a minerals deal between the US and Ukraine was enough of a safeguard for peace, or whether UK troops could be needed, the PM replied: 'The mineral deal is not enough on its own.

'But can I just remind him, Russia is the aggressor, Zelensky is a war leader whose country has been invaded, and we should all be supporting him and not fawning over Putin.'

The Reform UK leader, a vocal cheerleader for the US president, accused the war leader of 'overplaying his hand' and sparking the astonishing televised spat with Trump and vice president JD Vance

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Trump sparked global outrage by accusing Mr Zelensky of 'gambling with World War Three' and said he had not expressed enough thanks for US aid in defending his country against Mr Putin's invasion

Earlier, Tory shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel MP had said: 'President Zelensky is a hero, who has stood up to Putin's aggression, and led his country's defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last 3 years - and it is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that.

'For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelensky is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive.

'At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.'

And Lib Dem leader Ed Davey added: 'Zelensky showed courage and integrity in that room - in stark contrast to Farage's cowardly approach of licking Trump's boots.'

The Ukrainian president, who was given a warm welcome by King Charles at Sandringham yesterday, cut short a trip to the US in which he was supposed to sign a minerals deal with Mr Trump.

Speaking to LBC today Mr Farage said Ukraine was a 'corrupt country' and had to accept it was not getting territory like the Crimea back.

And he added: 'If I turned up at the White House I would make sure I was wearing a suit and my shoes were clean.'

After it was pointed out that the Ukrainian president was following in the footsteps of leaders like Churchill in visiting in battle fatigues, he added: 'If Zelenky wants to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredible old fashioned about this stuff ... if you are going in with a positive mindset maybe Zelensky should have thought about that.'

'Zelensky was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didn't back him,' he added.

'It was unwise, yes sure Vance and Trump bit back, but I think in diplomatic terms Zelensky played it very badly.

'I wouldn't expect a guest to be rude to me in my own house, absolutely not.

'I would expect a guest to treat me with respect.'

UK ambassador to the US Lord Mandelson has been slapped down by a defence minister for suggesting that Ukraine should commit to a ceasefire before Russia

And he said Ukraine must have a presidential election as soon as a peace deal 'is on the table'.

However, his remarks sparked criticism from other parties.

European leaders and Canada assembled in London at the weekend to try to thrash out a response after the extraordinary White House bust-up.

Mr Macron told Le Figaro that France and Britain were looking at a temporary truce that would cover air, sea and energy infrastructure - but not fighting on the ground as it would be 'very difficult to verify'.

Mr Zelensky said he was 'aware of everything' when asked about the plan. Kyiv has repeatedly warned that Vladimir Putin will just break a ceasefire deal.

However, Downing Street sounded cool on the concept, with insiders insisting there were 'various options on the table' and it 'has not been agreed'. Ministers said they did not 'recognise' the specific proposal.

Meanwhile, Mr Zelensky has moved to try to cool the feud with Mr Trump, heaping praise on the support the US has given up to now.

He also told reporters after the summit that Ukraine was still 'ready to sign' the minerals deal, and he would return to the Oval Office for discussions.

Meanwhile the UK ambassador to the US Lord Mandelson has been slapped down by a defence minister for suggesting that Ukraine should commit to a ceasefire before Russia.

Lord Mandelson's comments do not represent Government policy, armed forces minister Luke Pollard said.

The ambassador used an interview with American outlet ABC to say that Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky should give 'unequivocal backing' to US President Donald Trump's peace initiative.

Mr Trump's overtures to Russia's Vladimir Putin, with the possibility of Ukraine being sidelined in talks led by the White House and the Kremlin, has alarmed European leaders.

Lord Mandelson said a 'very radical reset' was needed following the Oval Office row between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

'The reset has to consist of the United States and Ukraine getting back on the same page, President Zelensky giving his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President Trump is taking to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine,' he said.

'And the Europeans too, they need to back the calls for a ceasefire, and  by the way  I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow.'

But asked whether Lord Mandelson's remarks reflected Government policy, Mr Pollard told Sky News: 'No. It's certainly right that Ukrainians want peace. I think of all the people on our continent that want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

'But we're still in discussions, diplomatic engagement with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of that deal.

'But it's certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war.'

Asked whether Lord Mandelson misspoke, he said: 'That's not Government policy.'
President Donald Trump is considering ending all military aid to Ukraine after the White House meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky blew up on Friday.

The president will meet with his senior advisors on Monday, according to the New York Times, where he will consider the future of Ukraine aid, even as European countries are discussing how to increase their support for Ukraine.

The disruptive ending of Zelensky's meeting at the White House on Friday with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance has thrown all future aid to Ukraine into question after the Ukrainian president was asked to leave the White House after the meeting.

Trump reasserted his record on Ukraine, after suffering a weekend of criticism in the press for his treatment of Zelensky.

'The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is President Donald J. Trump,' the president wrote on Truth Social. 'Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticize, and the Fake News gladly puts out anything they say!'

Trump's National Security Advisor Mike Waltz warned in an interview on FOX News Channels Americas Newsroom Monday morning that the days of unlimited support from America to Ukraine were over.

'The American people's patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited and our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited,' he said. 'The time to talk is now.'

Waltz said that Zelensky failed to demonstrate that he was willing to work with the United States and Russia to strike a peace deal to end the war.

President Donald Trump welcomes Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House in Washington.

Vice President JD Vance, right, speaks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

'Success looks like President Zelensky sitting down and talking the terms of peace ... what became so evident to us in that session is he's not ready to talk peace at all but here's the problem: Time is not on his side,' he said.

Waltz said it was 'really confounding' that Zelensky blew up the meeting and lost an opportunity to work with the American people for the future of his country.

'I think that President Zelensky truly did his country a real disservice by not having a positive outcome on Friday and we'll see where things are going forward,' he concluded.

Zelensky grew frustrated during the Oval Office meeting after Vance spoke about the importance of allowing President Trump to engage in diplomacy with Russia.

'What kind of diplomacy, JD, you are speaking about? What do you mean?' he asked, after listing all of the ways that Putin had broken previous agreements with Ukraine.

'Im talking about the kind of diplomacy thats going to end the destruction of your country. Mr. President,' Vance replied, before accusing Zelensky of being disrespectful to President Trump by trying to voice his opposition to a peace deal in front of the American media.

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, third from right, looks towards Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as they take part in a plenary during the Securing our Future Summit on Ukraine

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, center, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, left, and France's President Emmanuel Macron meet during the European leaders' summit

After the contentious Oval Office meeting, Trump told Zelensky to leave, canceling the planned lunch, and a meeting to sign an mineral deal agreement followed by a press conference to celebrate.

Trump criticized Zelensky for disrespecting the United States in the Oval Office, noting the Ukrainian president did not appear willing to make a peace deal.

'He can come back when he is ready for Peace,' Trump wrote on social media.

After the disastrous meeting with Trump, Zelensky made an emergency trip to London where he met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European leaders who emphasized their support for Ukraine.

'The U.K. is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others,' Starmer said. 'Europe must do the heavy lifting, but to support peace in our continent and to succeed, this effort must have strong U.S. backing.'
Brits back slashing aid to boost defence spending by a huge margin, according to a poll today.

YouGov research found that 65 per cent agree with the government's decision to fund the bump by trimming 6billion from aid by 2027.

Just a fifth oppose the move, which will see 2.5 per cent of GDP allocated to defence, and only 7 per cent were strongly against.

Support rose to 91 per cent among Reform voters, and was 83 per cent for Tories. Some 61 per cent of Labour backers were in favour.

There was, however, a sharp divide among 18-24 year-olds with 35 per cent for and 37 per cent opposed.

Keir Starmer announced the plan last week, and also voiced an ambition to hit 3 per cent in the next Parliament.

YouGov research found that 65 per cent agree with the government's decision to fund the bump by trimming 6billion from aid by 2027

Development minister Anneliese Dodds (left) resigned warning that the aid reduction will only increase the influence of Russia and China

The move sparked the resignation of one of his closest allies, development minister Anneliese Dodds, from Cabinet.

However, many military figures have been warning Sir Keir must go further, with the US pushing for a level nearer 5 per cent - although that is far more than America itself spends.

Updating MPs this afternoon, Sir Keir said there was a 'process' of pushing defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP.

Kemi Badenoch has urged the government to 'prepare for the worst' by hiking defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP by 2029.

The Tory leader urged Keir Starmer to seek 'peace through strength', saying that was the only thing Russia respected.

As she quit last week, Ms Dodds warned that the reduction in aid will only increase the influence of Russia and China.

Swiping that Sir Keir seemed to be appeasing Mr Trump - who has also slashed aid - she suggested taxes will need to rise anyway as the new military demands cannot be met by 'tactical' reductions to spending.

In a letter replying, the PM thanked Ms Dodds for her 'hard work, deep commitment and friendship'. He said he wanted to 'rebuild capability on development' when possible, but 'protecting our national security must always be the first duty of any government'.

The departure will fuel widespread anxiety on Labour benches about the decision, amid claims that Sir Keir 'bounced' his top team into it.

The announcement was seen as a pitch to Mr Trump ahead of Sir Keir's crucial visit to the White House.

The US president has been urging Nato states to spend 5 per cent of GDP on defence as he insists Washington will no longer underwrite protection for Ukraine or Europe.

Mr Trump praised the spending bump as a 'great thing to do' at their joint press conference.
A Michigan mother has asked that her three sons be declared dead 15 years after the young boys went missing while in the custody of their father.

Tanya Zuvers, the mother of Andrew, Alexander and Tanner Skelton, appeared in court Monday for a hearing to determine her request, which 'came after much thought & discussion with my family & friends,' she wrote on Facebook last year.

'It did not come lightly and was definitely a difficult decision to make,' Zuvers said.

Under Michigan law, someone can be declared dead if they've been missing for more than five years with no explanation.

The three brothers were aged nine, seven and five at the time of their disappearance in November 2010. They were last seen in the backyard of the home of their father, John Skelton, in Morenci near the Michigan-Ohio border.

Authorities believe the three boys are dead and that Skelton, Zuvers' ex-husband, is responsible.

Because their bodies were never found, Skelton was charged with three counts of unlawful imprisonment. He was convicted in 2011 and is set to be released in November 2025.

Skelton has said that he handed the boys over to an underground group to protect them from her mother.

Tanya Zuvers, the mother of the three young boys who disappeared in 2010, is pictured in court Monday at hearing she requested to have the boys declared dead. Her ex-husband John Skelton is seen on a screen above her as he appears remotely from prison

Nine-year-old Andrew, seven-year-old Alexander, and five-year-old Tanner disappeared the day after Thanksgiving in 2010

Police have never found any evidence of the claim and said that Skelton has provided differing accounts of who he entrusted his kids with.

'No parent wants to lose a child, but to have to have the courts step in and declare them deceased is just unfathomable,' Zuvers wrote in her Facebook note last year. 'At the end of the day, one person is responsible for the disappearance of my sons.'

Another possible reason Zuvers could be seeking the declaration is so that she could pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against Skelton, who appeared in court virtually from prison on Monday.

At Monday's hearing, the first witness called was Larry Weeks, a former Morenci police chief who worked on the case.

Weeks testified that Skelton told Zuvers the children were with Joann Taylor, a woman police believe does not exist.

An email address using Joann Taylor's name was created on a laptop that had an IP address associated with Skelton's home.

Burke Castleberry, Zuvers' attorney, asked Weeks: 'There's never been any discovery of a Joann Taylor?'

'No such person was ever discovered,' Weeks said.

While in prison, Skelton also told authorities that a man who helps people leave Amish communities might know about the boys. Castleberry called that 'another lie.'

Zuvers, who lived only a few doors down from Skelton, had dropped the kids off with him for Thanksgiving and he was supposed to return them the day after the holiday.

Weeks explained that on November 26, 2010, the day the boys were last seen, he received a call from a deputy who was with Skelton at the Fulton County Medical Center in Ohio.

John Skelton, who was convicted of three counts of unlawful imprisonment after his sons disappeared, is pictured in court on March 9, 2011

Former Morenci Police Chief Larry Weeks testified Monday about Skelton's varying explanations for why the children disappeared

In a photo circulated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, the Skelton boys pose in front of a Christmas tree

The officer indicated that Skelton had an injury to his ankle from a suicide attempt.

This was also when Skelton revealed he and the children had been with a Joann Taylor and her husband, Mark, who Skelton said was a pastor, Weeks told the court.

Weeks then went to the home where the boys were last seen and described a scene of 'disarray.'

'Glass and cabinets had been broken. Electrical cords to all the appliances had been cut,' he said, adding that 'there appeared to be a noose hanging from a second story balcony.'

Officers also found a written message from Skelton that was consistent with a suicide note.

People spent weeks searching woods and waters in Michigan and Ohio.

In Morenci, a plaque with the boys' names and images is attached to a rock at a park near Bean Creek. It reads, 'Faith, Hope, Love.'

The hearing is expected to last three days.
A heavily tattooed man dubbed Human Satan has had two fingers removed as part of an extreme body modification to give himself an alien-style claw.

Brazilian-born Diabao Praddo, 50, shared the shocking moment on social media with grim pictures of the just a thumb and two fingers on his left hand.

Praddo, who had changed his legal name from 'Michel' To 'Diabao' (Portuguese for Devil), told his followers after the DIY surgery on his left hand on March 1: 'All done.'

The tattoo artist from the Praia Grande coast near Sao Paulo in Brazil, already had the little finger and ring digit of his right hand amputated to give him devilish claws.

He previously told his fans how he had hesitated before going ahead with the procedure because he was worried it could ruin his work as a tattoo artist, but this would not stop him.

Speaking about how he adapted to the absence of the fingers on his hand in his daily life and work as a tattoo artist, Praddo said: 'In the beginning, it was quite difficult, but it didn't take long for me to get back to tattooing almost normally.

'Sometimes I experience pain and the 'phantom' sensation [caused by the absence of my fingers], which still leaves me somewhat confused, both at work and in other tasks.'

But he added: 'I really wanted to change myself and I was very satisfied.'

Tattoo artist Diabao Prado ahs had two fingers chopped off his left hand in bid to achieve an alien-like claw

In 2022 Praddo underwent surgery to implant a set of silver tusks in his mouth, which he says cost only 5,000 Brazilian reais, or roughly 790

The 50-year-old Brazilian ink addict is among the most altered human beings on the planet

The Brazilian ink addict is among the most altered human beings on the planet, claiming he has made more than 100 alterations to his body including full body tattoos and one grim procedure to cut off and then eat one of his nipples.

He currently holds the Guinness World Record as the person with the most subdermal 'horn' implants on his head, showing of 33 implants that drastically changed his appearance.

And he has had countless surgeries and inkings to make himself look less human, and has even had his tongue slit in two.

He estimates that he has had more than 60 procedures, and around 85 per cent of his body is covered in ink.

Praddo also claimed he was the third person in the world to have the end of his nose removed, in a procedure which is highly dangerous and for which the long-term health risks are unknown.

He also has four horns on either side of his head and several implants under the skin of his forehead.

After he received the Guinness World Record entry in 2023 he said his 'dream has come true'.

The body-modification addict previously shared shocking photographs of his amputation on his right hand on social media after having his first finger cut off in 2021

Praddo (right after surgery, left before) has 33 horn implants in his head as part of his years-long bid to completely transform his appearance

He had his ears, nose, nipples, and the ring finger of his left hand removed, and more than 80 per cent of his body has been inked, including his eyeballs

The Brazilian, who beat another hopeful who had 18 horn implants, travelled to Milan, Italy, in February for the record to be verified on the TV programme 'Lo Show Dei Record'.

Speaking to Brazilian media about the experience, he said: 'It was something very special and surreal. A dream come true to enter Guinness and also go to Europe.

'At several moments, I was emotional, with tears in my eyes, as I went over my life. An experience that I will cherish forever in my heart and memory.'

But Praddo has no plans to stop and hopes to compete for the title of the world's most modified man.

He is married to his partner of more than 10 years, Carol Praddo, who is dubbed 'Mulher Demonia' or 'Demon Woman' and is also extremely modified.

His wife specialises in body modifications and has also helped him achieve his unique look.

'I have been a tattoo artist for 25 years, most of my tattoos I get from tattoo artists and professionals who I have paid,' Praddo said.

He is married to his partner of more than 10 years, Carol Praddo, who is dubbed 'Mulher Demonia' or 'Demon Woman' and is also extremely modified

The Brazilian, who beat another hopeful who had 18 horn implants, travelled to Milan, Italy , in February 2023 for the Guinness World Record to be verified on the TV programme 'Lo Show Dei Record'

'I focus on blackwork and brutal tattoos, which are types of tattoos where you ink a large part of your body.

'But my wife has specialised in the area of modifications and the idea is for me to become her masterpiece when it comes to tattooing!'

Praddo claims to have a high pain tolerance and doesn't mind enduring more pain to achieve the body he desires.

He said: 'Actually I have a good resistance to pain, I don't think anything is so painful, I suffer a lot more in the post-procedures than at the time.

'And the truth is that there are changes that without anaesthesia would be almost impossible to be done, I would love not to feel any pain.

'But if I have to feel pain, to achieve what I want, for sure I will face it!'
Downing Street today defended Labour's plan to tackle the Channel migrant crisis despite the number of arrivals being 20 per cent higher than last year.

Latest figures, published by the Home Office, showed 592 migrants arrived in the UK yesterday after crossing the Channel in 11 small boats.

This was the highest number of arrivals on a single day so far this year and took the total number of arrivals in 2025 to 2,716.

This is 20 per cent higher than at the same point last year, when the total stood at 2,255, but 8 per cent lower than at this stage in 2023, when the total was 2,953.

Before Sunday the previous daily high for arrivals was 260, which was recorded on January 13.

No10 pushed back at claims the Prime Minister had failed in his pre-election promise to 'smash' people-smuggling gangs operating across the Channel.

Sir Keir Starmer's spokesman said there were 'no quick fixes' to illegal migration after Labour inherited an asylum system 'in chaos' from the previous Tory government.

But Downing Street also suggested the PM would not be taking up an offer from mayors in northern France for Sir Keir to 'look at our beaches' in person.

No10 pushed back at claims the Prime Minister had failed in his pre-election promise to 'smash' people-smuggling gangs operating across the Channel

An inflatable dinghy carrying around 65 people crosses the English Channel on March 6, 2024

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Stephane Pinto, the mayor of Ambleteuse, urged Sir Keir to 'come and look at our beaches'.

'We must put in place measures to stop bodies on our beaches,' he told the BBC.

Phillipe Mignonet, deputy mayor of Calais, said it was time for the PM 'to come over and see this situation himself'.

But, asked if Sir Keir would be taking up the offer, the PM's official spokesman pointed to how Home Secretary Yvette Cooper had visited the region last month.

'The Home Secretary last week became the first British home secretary to visit the French coast in five years to meet her French counterpart,' Sir Keir's spokesman said.

'They agreed to ramp up our joint efforts to smash people-smuggling gangs.

'The agreement we've extended with France is going to involve a new specialist intelligence unit stationed in Dunkirk that will hunt people smugglers and will have dual powers to investigate and prosecute criminal gangs.

'It's going to include a new policing unit of specialist enforcement officers similar to the arrangements in place during the Paris Olympics, which will give police more powers to patrol beaches and apprehend smugglers.

'It includes more training for drone pilots to increase operations and intercept boats before they actually reach the sea.

'The PM will obviously consider the invitations in the usual way but we are committed to working with France as our closest partner when it comes to tackling illegal migation.

'We work hand-in-glove every day to tackle these gangs and we will continue to do so.'

Asked why Sir Keir's plan to stop Channel migrant crossings did not appear to be working - in the wake of Sunday's high number of arrivals - his spokesman said: 'This Government is focused on taking the practical steps to deal with the chaos of the asylum system that we inherited from the previous government.

'That's why we've set up the new Border Security Command, it's why we've surged resource to deliver enforced returns, which are now up 24 per cent.

'It's why we've surged resource to increase the number of illegal working arrests, which have increased by 38 per cent, why we're removing more foreign national offenders, that's up 21 per cent.

'We've seen the four biggest returns charter flights in UK history. We're taking the measures that will ultimately deter and smash the people-smuggling gangs that have been plying this illegal trade.

'We're extending a deal with France to step up our work with the French to further smash the gangs and stop these small boat crossings.'
A brazen extortionist faces decades in prison for stealing social media profiles and threatening to kill his victims if they refused the ransom.

Idriss Qibaa, 28, pleaded guilty in a Nevada federal court to extortion, money laundering, stalking, and threats to injure after an FBI investigation.

His sick scheme came undone after he bragged on a podcast that it was making him $600,000 a month from ripping off more than 200 victims.

The boastful criminal revealed his operation on January 18 last year, and by late July he was behind bars and his ill-gotten gains were being confiscated.

Qibaa's scam involved exploiting the reporting systems of social media sites like Instagram so they would be locked, or simply hacking their passwords.

Then he demanded thousands of dollars in ransom money to reinstate them, in many cases requiring victims to pay ongoing fees to keep them unlocked.

But he wasn't just shaking down influencers and businesses, he threatened the lives of those who refused to pay, or do business with him - and even their kids.

'You think a group of little ghetto kids won't come and eat you for $5k... You're (sic) head will be a snack for the pigs in Sinaloa,' one message read.

Idriss Qibaa, 28, came undone after he bragged on a podcast that it was making him $600,000 a month from ripping off more than 200 victims in a sick extortion scheme

Qibaa wasn't just shaking down influencers and businesses, he threatened the lives of those who refused to pay, or do business with him

Another victim he sent photos showing a man in his car and then what he claimed was the same man on the ground with his face and shirt covered in blood.

'Here's the last guy that came to take photos/came near my home,' he wrote.

A message to a third victim read: 'The next photo my people send me will be you or ur husband like that lol.'

Court documents detailed his extortion and harassment of nine victims, including his dentist, landlord, real estate agent, and a politician's daughter.

His landlord, initialed KD in the documents, rented Qibaa a house in Las Vegas for $9,750 a month in February 2024.

The next month, he complained that security guards at the gated community asked him for ID as he hadn't picked up his transponder to open the gates.

He sent racial slurs to KD and neighbors made so many complaints that the homeowner association fined KD $5,000.

'I'd rather take a life sentence for murdering you then this... I'll go to jail happily,' some of the messages read.

Qibaa also posted the details of the Gladstone Clinic, which KD owned, online and it got so many spam emails and calls it couldn't function.

The boastful criminal revealed his operation on January 18 last year, and by late July he was behind bars and his ill-gotten gains were being confiscated

Another victim he sent photos showing a man in his car and then what he claimed was the same man on the ground with his face and shirt covered in blood

A message to another victim read: 'The next photo my people send me will be you or ur husband like that lol.'

He also turned on the realtor by hacking her social media pages and posting porn on them, and trying to hack into her computer.

Qibba discovered that a woman he knew of was related to a prominent politician, and took her Instagram page down, then demanded money to reinstate it.

She and her partner refused to pay so he threatened their families, forcing them to pay $20,000 in Bitcoin in fear of their families' safety.

Qibaa showed up at their house in Beverly Hills and smashed their white 2022 Bentley and white 2023 Mercedes parked in the driveway with a rock.

'The windshields are just my way of showing you how easily I can touch you my self with my own hands... you ever cross me it's over,' he wrote.

The dentist was targeted after he repeatedly refused to do business with Qibaa, and told him to stop asking during their treatments in October 2023.

Qibaa retaliated in July 2024 by sending 700 threatening messages.

'You're dead dog f**king dead,' 'I will come and shoot you myself,' and 'I'm going to bury you for this s**t' were some of the messages.

Qibaa showed up at their house in Beverly Hills and smashed their white 2022 Bentley and white 2023 Mercedes parked in the driveway with a rock

He also threatened the dentist's children, listing their names and adding 'Children-Main Targets'.

'I just feel bad for ur kids. If you had one ounce of love or care for them you'd never dare speak to me this way or treat me this way,' another text read.

One of Qibaa's services offered on his website was to get other people's social media profiles taken down, in exchange for money.

An influencer with 195,000 followers was one of those targets, after her dentist paid Qibaa to go after her.

Qibaa told her to search for the podcast and spammed her with 2,000 messages, along with threatening to 'blast out' her social security number.

He demanded $20,000 ransom for the Instagram and to leave her alone.

Joshua T, a business owner who ran two marijuana-related Instagram accounts, reached out to Qibaa asking if he could buy a username he had for sale.

Qibaa threatened the dentist's children, listing their names and adding 'Children-Main Targets'

'I just feel bad for ur kids. If you had one ounce of love or care for them you'd never dare speak to me this way or treat me this way,' another text read

Messages Qibaa sent an influencer whose Instagram account he stole, and messages he sent an associate bragging about what he did to her

Qibaa quoted a price of $4,000 to $5,000, which Joshua declined.

'Qibba told JT that JT had wasted Qibaa's time, blocked JT's Instagram pages and demanded $10,000 to reinstate it,' court documents detailed.

'JT offered Qibaa $8,500 to reinstate the account, an offer Qibaa accepted.'

Qibaa then asked him to promote his Instagram page, which he initially agreed to, but confronted him when he found out there were other victims.

Qibaa was 'irate' and in December 2023, called JT and 'threated to destroy him and his family' and call his ex-wife's lawyer and CPS on his children.

He demanded $10,000 to stop the harassment, but Joshua T blocked him instead. Qibaa responded by sending threats to his sister.

'The guy that's gonna murder your drug dealer brother. Tell him Unlocked says hi though. We have your entire family's info,' he sent her.

The extortionist also offered $10,000 to anyone who willing to stalk JT, through a Telegram channel called 'Unblocked Uncensored'.

Qibaa demanded $10,000 to stop the harassment, but Joshua T blocked him instead. Qibaa responded by sending threats to his sister (left) and offered $10,000 to anyone who willing to stalk him (right)

Another extortion victim, the owner of the OutlawArchive Instagram, suddenly found his account was locked.

Qibaa told him it would cost $12,000 to get it back and they set up a dinner on May 30, 2023, to discuss the details - but the victim canceled.

He responded by sending threatening messages, including one with his personal information

The victim got a restraining order but Qibaa just taunted him with more threatening messages.

'Cute restraining order..last I checked you're still gonna die,' one read.

Qibaa offered a '$50,000 reward for whoever sleeps BO this week' on the Unlocked Uncensored Telegram channel

The victim got a restraining order but Qibaa just taunted him with more threatening messages

The ordeal of another victim, initialed AT, in San Diego, started when he bought Instagram handle @ace from Qibaa for $25,000 - but never got access.

After being harassed, he offered to pay $10,000 for Qibaa to leave him alone, but instead was demanded $100,000 which he refused

AT started to receive threatening messages 'as frequent as every other day. The caller made threats to shoot or injure AT's daughter, fiance, dog, business partners and their families', the court documents detailed.

Qibaa's campaign of terror and extortion was only stopped after he was cocky enough to spill the details on the No Jumper podcast.

'You're making $2 million a month off your Instagram and Telegraph,' he explained.

'I come and I take it away and make you pay for it back and I make it public and I post it and I expose you.

'For me, if they want to come and take my account over, this this and that, you can't take somebody out like me. It's like cockroaches.'

Qibaa's campaign of terror and extortion was only stopped after the FBI was tipped off about the podcast on April 1 last year, and investigated

Qibaa's scam involved exploiting the reporting systems of social media sites like Instagram so they would be locked, or simply hacking their passwords

The podcaster, Adam Grandmaison, asked why he would be so open about his clearly illegal methods - and Qibaa gave his most brazen response.

'You guys can kill me; that's the only option,' he said.

But it was not the only option.

The FBI was tipped off about the podcast on April 1 last year, and investigated. By July, they found enough victims and evidence to arrest him on federal charges.

He was locked up as investigators found evidence indicating he was a serious flight risk.

'On multiple occasions through different means, Qibaa has stated if he feels any law enforcement pressure or is arrested and makes bail, he will flee back to Morocco and "live like a king",' court documents detailed.

Qibaa pleaded guilty and faces 20 years' jail for each of the extortion charge; 10 years for each of the money laundering charges; five years for the stalking charge; and five years for each of the threats to injure charges.

He will be sentenced on May 22 by District Judge Richard Boulware.
Three teenage girls surrounded a 75-year-old man on a London high street before he was pushed, shoved, kicked and punched and then died in hospital the next day, a court heard.

Fredi Rivero was attacked by three teenage girls, aged 14, 16 and 17, in the Islington area of north London at around 11.35pm on Thursday - which one of the defendants recorded on her phone.

He was treated by officers and paramedics at the scene after he had collapsed - but he sadly died in hospital on Friday.

The victim, thought to be a Bolivian national, was near a bus stop on Seven Sisters Road, or the A503, when the teen defendants got off a bus and surrounded him, the court heard.

The defendants then walked away at first - but soon returned, before pushing, shoving, kicking and punching the victim, with one of the teenagers recording it on her mobile. The alleged victim then fell over.

The girls, who cannot be named because of their age, were arrested on suspicion of grievous bodily harm before the mans death, but have now been charged with manslaughter. They appeared at Highbury Corner Youth Court on Monday.

Chair of the bench Alexia Fetherstonhaugh remanded the defendants into youth detention accommodation and told them they will appear at the Old Bailey on March 31.

Pictures taken the day after the incident show a large police cordon around a bank. Bloodstains are visible on the pavement alongside tied-up rubbish bags and various other bits of debris.

Three teenage girls surrounded a 75-year-old man on a London high street (pictured) before he was pushed, shoved, kicked and punched and then died in hospital the next day, a court heard

Fredi Rivero was attacked by three teenage girls, aged 14, 16 and 17, in the Islington area of north London (pictured) at around 11.35pm on Thursday - which one of the defendants recorded on her phone

Your browser does not support iframes.

The victim, thought to be a Bolivian national, was near a bus stop on Seven Sisters Road, or the A503, when the teen defendants got off a bus and surrounded him, the court heard. Pictured: File photo of Seven Sisters Road in Islington where the incident happened

Mr Rivero was treated by officers and paramedics at the scene (pictured) after he had collapsed - but he sadly died in hospital on Friday

Mr Rivero's family continue to be supported by specialist officers, according to a statement from the Metropolitan Police from Saturday.

A specialist post-mortem examination will be held in due course.

Superintendent Annmarie Cowley, one of the senior officers responsible for policing Islington, has previously said: 'I know this death will cause shock and very real concern in Holloway and the wider Islington area.

'I share those concerns, and I want to assure local people that a thorough police investigation is under way.'

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Waller, who is leading the murder investigation, has previously commented: 'Every possible line of inquiry is being followed, and this includes forensic work and ongoing enquiries to identify all available CCTV.

'I am grateful to those members of the public who have contacted police already. I urge anyone who saw the incident but has yet to contact police to please get in touch and share what they know.'

Anyone with any information that could help the Metropolitan Police with its investigation is asked to call 101 or contact the force @MetCC on X, quoting CAD 8184/27Feb.

You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
An EDF customer who had more than 40,000 stolen from a savings account after the energy firm gave his phone number to scammers was offered 50 as a goodwill gesture to close the case.

Stephen  who didnt want his surname used  had the life-changing sum taken after the energy giant gave out the personal information when the fraudsters passed security using his name and email address.

It enabled them to initiate a SIM swap scam, where an individuals phone number is transferred to a new SIM Card, enabling them to pass other types of security linked to mobiles.

Within 48 hours, Stephens accounts at O2, Nationwide Building Society and Virgin Media had been compromised  and over 40,000 worth of premium bonds had been cashed out of his National Savings and Investments account.

Describing his conversation with EDF after the data breach, during which he discovered his number had been given out, he told BBC Radio 4s You and Yours programme: I said Why would you do that?

They said the person had gone through security. With a name and email address? I asked.

EDF said Yes  and then offered me a 50 goodwill gesture to close the case.

I was just amazed and I thought How can they do this and does that mean all my other bank and building society accounts are compromised as well?

An EDF customer had more than 40,000 stolen from a savings account after the energy firm gave his phone number to scammers was offered 50 as a goodwill gesture to close the case

Stephen became aware of the security breach on February 3, when he received a text from O2 confirming he had successfully changed his password.

He immediately contacted the firm and was told he must have been the victim of a SIM swap scam.

The following morning, an email arrived from EDF asking for feedback on his recent contact with them. Following enquiries, he was told their fraud department would be in contact but a week later no one had spoken to him.

O2 then said a new SIM card was being sent out but it was linked to a different phone number. Checks of his emails through provider Virgin Media revealed someone had changed his password.

It was as he was trying to resolve this problem that his accounts were accessed. Nationwide increased his security when he couldnt use his credit card on February 5.

Stephen then learned his NS&I account had been raided, saying: After an hour of talking to different people there they said Youve actually taken out a very large amount of premium bonds, over 40,000.

EDFs paltry goodwill gesture came when they contacted him more than a week after his initial call to them.

SIM swap scams take advantage of the two-factor authentication sent to mobiles when changing passwords.

Getting Stephen's phone number enabled the scammers to initiate a SIM swap scam, where an individuals phone number is transferred to a new SIM Card, enabling them to pass other types of security linked to mobiles

Within 48 hours Stephens accounts at O2, Nationwide Building Society and Virgin Media had been compromised  and over 40,000 worth of premium bonds had been cashed out of his National Savings and Investments account

Stephen reported the crime to Hertfordshire Police who forwarded the matter to Action Fraud as it the crime was believed to have occurred outside the UK.

He believes poor customer service gave the scammers enough time to raid his NS&I account, saying: Some nights I just wake up thinking What next? Its been very difficult really.

NS&I refunded the money that was taken on February 19, while Nationwide said they had blocked fraudulent purchases.

O2 Virgin Media confirmed an individual had contacted their call centre requesting a new SIM and had hacked Stephens emails. It recommended using unique, long and complex passwords. A sum of 125 had been offered as a gesture of goodwill.

EDF said security procedures had been followed but added: We subsequently recognised this was fraud. These incidents are rare but we take them seriously and are reviewing our processes.

We have discussed this incident with the Information Commissioners Office.

More than 2,000 reports were received by Action Fraud last year, a fourfold increase on 2021.

Cybersecurity expert Nick Stapleton, who hosts BBC Ones Scam Interceptors, warned about sharing information on social media

Cybersecurity expert Nick Stapleton, who hosts BBC Ones Scam Interceptors, warned about sharing information on social media.

If youve got a social media account thats not protected and has things like a picture of your dog with its name underneath, or of your family with their names tagged, scammers can use those to get past security questions, he said.

He also suggested taking other measures, such as adding a PIN number to the SIM card, which can be done in a phones settings.
The mass shooter who murdered seven people at a July 4 parade in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park pleaded guilty to the killings on Monday.

Robert Crimo, 24, withdrew his earlier not-guilty plea in a Lake County circuit courtroom; he admitted to killing seven people and injuring dozens more when he opened fire on a 2022 Independence Day parade in the Chicago suburb.

It was a stunning development moments before opening arguments in his trial on charges of murder and attempted murder.

Sentencing will come April 23 and Crimo is certain to spend the rest of his life behind bars. Each count of first-degree murder carries a natural life prison sentence.

Prosecutors initially charged him with 21 counts of first-degree murder  three counts for each person killed  as well as 48 counts of attempted murder. Prosecutors dropped the less serious 48 counts of aggravated battery before the start of the trial with jury selection last week.

On Monday, Judge Victoria Rossetti read the charges to Crimo and asked questions to be sure he understood before any open plea was read to the court. He was sitting next to his lawyers wearing a dark suit.

'Is that what you went over with your attorneys?' Rossetti asked.

'Yes,' Crimo replied to the judge.

Robert Crimo, 24, pleaded guilty on Monday to killing seven people in Highland Park

Sentencing will come April 23, but Crimo is certain to spend the rest of his life behind bars for the murders. He is seen listening to his lawyer Gregory Ticsay

He gave one-word answers, indicating he understood the charges. His mother, Denise Pesina, had a brief outburst at the news and was called up to the judge for a warning.

'Were going to move forward. You are not a party to this proceeding. If you would like to stay in the courtroom please have a seat and be quiet,' the judge said to her.

She was allowed to stay.

The judge said with the plea change, there would be no trial or further motions on the case.

'He has knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights and pleaded guilty,' Rossetti said.

Lake County prosecutors read the names of all those killed in the shooting and of those injured in the shooting, with the judge stopping to ask questions to make sure Crimo understood.

They went over the substantial evidence, including his prints on the gun used in the crime, and statements to police admitting to the mass shooting.

The trial that began February 24 was expected to last about a month with testimony from survivors and police. Prosecutors had submitted thousands of pages of evidence, as well as hours of a videotaped interrogation during which police say Crimo confessed to the shooting. But the 24-year-old had then pleaded not guilty.

Irina and Kevin McCarthy, 35 and 37, were both killed in the massacre. Their two-year-old son, Aiden, was pulled from underneath his father's body

Nicolas Toledo, 76, had not wanted to attend the parade in Highland Park, Ill., on Monday, his granddaughter because he was in a wheelchair. Jacki Sundheim is seen on the right

Steve Straus, 88, (left) and Eduardo Uvaldo, 65, (right) were among those killed in the mass shooting

Dozens of people were wounded in the shooting in the suburb about 30 miles north of Chicago. The wounded ranged in age from their 80s down to an 8-year-old boy who was left partially paralyzed.

Witnesses described confusion as the shots began, followed by panic as families fled the downtown parade route, leaving behind lawn chairs and strollers to find safety inside nearby businesses or homes.

Authorities said Crimo perched on a roof and fired into crowds assembled for the annual Fourth of July parade in downtown Highland Park.

The criminal case proceeded slowly for months, partly due to Crimos unpredictable behavior. In June 2024, when he was expected to accept a plea deal and give victims and relatives a chance to address him publicly, Crimo showed up to court in a wheelchair and rejected the deal, surprising even his lawyers.

He also fired his public defenders and said he would represent himself. Then he abruptly reversed himself.

As potential jurors were questioned last week, he sporadically appeared in court, at times refusing to leave his jail cell.

The trial came almost two years after his fathers case focusing on how Crimo obtained a gun license.

Dozens of mourners gather for a vigil near Central Avenue and St. Johns Avenue in downtown Highland Park, one day after the shooting

Crimo is wheeled back into the courtroom after talking with his lawyers on June 26, 2024

In 2019, at age 19, Crimo was only allowed to apply for a gun license with the sponsorship of a parent or guardian. His father agreed, even though a relative had reported to police that his son had a collection of knives and had threatened to 'kill everyone.'

His father, Robert Crimo Jr., a onetime mayoral candidate, was charged in connection with how his son obtained a gun license. He pleaded guilty in 2023 to seven misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct and served less than two months in jail.

He has attended his sons hearings, sometimes making eye contact with him during court. He declined to discuss the case in detail ahead of the trial.

'As a parent, I love my son very much,' he said. 'And Bobby loves this country more than anyone would ever know.'
Two men have been charged with criminal damage after a newly-installed Paddington Bear statue was cut in half and stolen from a bench.

A sculpture of the popular children's character written about by Michael Bond and featuring in a recent trilogy of hit films was unveiled last October in Newbury, Berkshire.

But the statue, in Northbrook Street, Newbury, Berkshire, was damaged before the broken piece was stolen shortly after 2am on Sunday, Thames Valley Police said.

Newbury was the birthplace of Paddington author Bond, who died in June 2017 aged 91.

Daniel Heath, 22, of Thornton, West Yorkshire, and William Lawrence, 22, of Enderby, Leicestershire, were both charged with one count of criminal damage on Monday.

The pair have been released on conditional bail and will appear at Reading Magistrates' Court on March 25.

The stolen part of the statue has since been recovered by officers.

Investigating officer inspector Alan Hawkett previously said: 'The Paddington Bear statue is a beloved part of Newbury, so we have been doing everything we can to locate it and the offenders.

Police previously posed alongside the statue of Paddington Bear in Newbury, Berkshire - the same location where author Bond lived

Only the outer coating was left behind on the bench after the statue was stolen by thieves

Two men have now been charged with criminal damage after an investigation by Thames Valley Police

'I am delighted we have made two arrests and recovered the statue, which we will keep safe and support its restoration to its rightful place in Northbrook Street.

'In the meantime, Paddington is heading to Newbury police station for a much-needed marmalade sandwich.'

Lee Dillon, Liberal Democrat MP for Newbury, said in a post on X, formerly Twitter: 'Heartbreaking to see that Paddington in Newbury has been vandalised. He brings so much joy to our community.

'Just yesterday, I stopped to take a photo of him with my family. This senseless damage is so disappointing.'

Marmalade sandwich-loving Paddington, who first appeared in books written by Bond in the 1950s, was named after the London station where he was discovered - wearing a tag that urged: 'Please look after this bear.'

That same railway terminus now has a statue in his honour, and others have been erected elsewhere across the country.

Paddington Bear's fond place in UK hearts was symbolised by his appearance in a sketch alongside the late Queen Elizabeth II as part of her Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June 2022.
A Florida construction worker accused of brutally murdering his Trump-supporting boss during a political argument has been found not guilty by reason of insanity.

Mason Trever Toney, 34, was acquitted of the 2020 murder of his childhood friend and boss William Steven Knight, 28, after a judge ruled he was legally insane at the time of the attack, as reported by Law and Crime.

The verdict, reached on February 7, means Toney will avoid prison and instead be placed in a secure mental health facility - despite the shocking details of the gruesome crime.

Knight, a proud Trump supporter, had been giving Toney a ride to work when an argument over politics turned deadly.

Witnesses say Toney, who supposedly had anti-government beliefs and was convinced the government was 'out to get him,' suddenly attacked Knight with a trowel, a tool typically used to smooth concrete.

The attack occurred near the Florida Turnpike on January 20, 2020.

Workers at the construction site reported hearing Knight's desperate cries for help before running over to intervene, only to find Toney allegedly wielding the deadly tool and calling them 'terrorists.'

Florida construction worker Mason Toney, 34, (left) who has anti-government beliefs, allegedly killed his boss William Knight, 28, (right) who was a supporter of Donald Trump, on Monday January 20 following a political argument. He was acquitted of the 2020 murder of his childhood friend and boss after a judge ruled he was legally insane

A bloodied American flag was found discarded near Knight's lifeless body, further deepening the eerie crime scene.

Toney fled the scene in a truck but was tracked down and arrested in Brevard County later that same day.

Knight's grieving mother later told local CBS affiliate WKMG that she had warned her son against hiring Toney, citing his erratic behavior.

'This wasn't about politics. There was something wrong with Mason,' she said.

Toney's next review hearing is set for August 11, determining his future in state psychiatric care.

Coworkers told investigators that Toney and Knight were friends outside of work, despite their political differences.

Knight was described as an 'outspoken American who was 'pro-Donald Trump'.

Toney was described as 'anti-government' and 'very outspoken in his beliefs that the government is bad and out to get him,' as per the arrest affidavit.

Deputies were called to the scene around 10.30am on Monday with people calling in saying Toney killed their boss along the Turnpike near State Road 528

Toney was charged with first degree murder and is being held in Orange County without bond

The killing comes as a shock to the Knight family who said Toney was a generous and loving friend to Knight

'He was a friend of the family. My son went to elementary school with him and to middle school and high school,' William Knight's father said to WESH.

The killing comes as a shock to the Knight family who said Toney was a generous and loving friend to Knight.

'He would give his shirt off his back to anybody, feed anybody,' he added.
Germany's likely next chancellor Friedrich Merz has accused Donald Trump of deliberately escalating last week's angry clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky which shocked Kyiv's allies.

Trump berated Zelensky in their cringe-inducing Oval Office meeting on Friday, telling him to be more 'thankful' for US support against the invading Russian army in the three-year-old war and demanding he 'make a deal' with Moscow.

'According to my assessment, this was not a spontaneous reaction to what Zelensky was saying but clearly a deliberate escalation,' Merz told reporters at a press conference about the White House meeting that also included US Vice President JD Vance.

Merz's centre-right CDU/CSU alliance came first in last month's election and is currently in talks with the centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) with a view to forming a government.

Merz said he was 'rather astonished at the tone of the conversation' at Friday's White House meeting, adding that it was 'unhelpful'.

Pointing to Vance's speech at last month's Munich Security Conference, Merz said that there was a 'certain continuity in the things we currently see from Washington'.

Just days before Germany's election, Vance had demanded that Europe 'step up' in managing its own security and lambasted European countries on a range of culture war issues.

Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party leader and Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz

Vice President JD Vance (R) speaks during a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington DC on Friday, February 28, 2025

Despite being a long-standing trans-atlanticist, Merz has emphasised the need for more European independence from the United States in defence policy in light of the Trump administration's actions.

'I think we need to prepare to do much, much more for our own security in the coming years and decades,' he said, although he insisted 'that we must do everything we can to keep the Americans in Europe'.

Merz has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine and has in the past said he would be prepared to send long-range Taurus missiles to Kyiv which could reach deep into Russian territory.

Outgoing SPD Chancellor Olaf Scholz has refused to do this, citing the danger of direct confrontation with Russia.

Scholz's government has, however, been Ukraine's second-biggest supplier of aid since Russia's full-scale invasion began three years ago and Germany has played host to more than a million Ukrainian refugees.

Recognising Europe's vulnerability in the event of a US withdrawal from NATO, Merz - who is currently trying to get the outgoing Bundestag to vote through a constitutional change that would allow Germany to dramatically boost defence spending - declared last month he would explore the possibility of forming a nuclear triumvirate with Britain and France.

'We have to talk to the British and French whether their nuclear protection could also be extended to us,' he said.

'(This is) an issue that the French government has repeatedly raised with the German government... We must talk to each other about what that could look like.'

It is one of several moves the German Chancellor-in-waiting is likely to take as he seeks to ensure Europe is able to stand alone and face threats from the East without US support.

'My absolute priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that, step by step, we can really achieve independence from the USA,' Merz said in the wake of the CDU's election victory late last month.

'I never thought I would have to say something like this on a television programme.

'But after Donald Trump's statements last week at the latest, it is clear that the Americans, at least this part of the Americans, this administration, are largely indifferent to the fate of Europe.'
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday embarked on a visit to Brazil to participate in the 11th BRICS Parliamentary Forum where he is scheduled to prese ...


Donald Trump slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky today, saying he wasn't interested in finding peace.

He renewed his attack on Zelensky after his Ukrainian counterpart said peace with Russia 'is still very, very far away.' That infuriated Trump who has upped the pressure on Kyiv to end the war.

'This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer,' Trump posted on his Truth Social website.

On Friday, Zelensky's visit to the White House was cut short after they clashed in the Oval Office over whether or not Russian President Vladimir Putin could be trusted.

Zelensky then traveled to the UK where European leaders - among them France, Germany and the UK - and Canada scrambled to thrash out a joint position on Ukraine at an emergency summit before reiterating their support for the war-torn country.

Trump said: 'It is what I was saying, this guy doesn't want there to be Peace as long as he has America's backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.'

He added in what appeared to be an attack on European leaders: 'Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?'

This comes after NATO chief Mark Rutte last night pointed to promises from more European countries to 'ramp up defence spending', while insisting that Washington remained committed to the transatlantic alliance.

French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that European countries should raise their defence spending to between 3.0 and 3.5 percent of GDP to respond to Washington's shifting priorities and Russia's militarisation.

Last week, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that the UK would increase its defence spending to 2.5 per cent of its GDP, slashing the aid budget, with plans to increase military spending to three per cent soon after.

Donald Trump (pictured) slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday, saying he wasn't interested in finding peace just as the American president was due to meet with top officials to discuss whether to end aid to the embattled country altogether

He renewed his attack on Zelensky after his Ukrainian counterpart said peace with Russia 'is still very, very far away.' That infuriated Trump who has upped the pressure on Kyiv to end the war

Donald Trump clashed with his Ukrainian counterpart in the Oval Office on Friday

Trump renewed his attack on Zelensky with a Truth Social post

While the US is the largest single donor of aid to Ukraine, more than 50 allies and partner countries have provided security assurances to Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022.

As of December 31, 2024, Europe had contributed 132.3bn euros in allocated aid, versus 114.2bn given by the US.

Europe's contributions are also expected to keep flowing; 115.1bn remained to be allocated from Europe, with just 4.84bn from the US.

The key difference is in what the U.S. is able to supply. Britain has been able to match the U.S. with long-range missiles, able to hit deep into Russian territory. And the Challenger 2 tank has been one of the most reliable fixtures on the battlefield.

But American air defences - and their sheer volume - are critical to fending off Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and disrupting utilities.

Long range ATACMS missiles can also 'make a significant difference in the war', according to Olga Tokariuk, Academy Associate, Ukraine Forum, Russia and Eurasia Programme.

The summit between the European leaders, where countries promised to increase their defence spending to react to Washington's shifting priorities and Russia's militarisation, has been commended by US national security advisor Mike Waltz.

'We welcome the Europeans taking a lead in European security,' he told reporters at the White House and even praised Sir Keir and Macron.

'I mean that's been an underpinning. They have to invest in the capability to do that. They're certainly showing a will. Both Starmer and Macron showed that will last week before Friday.'

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, right, greets French President Emmanuel Macron as he arrives for a summit on Ukraine at Lancaster House in London, Sunday, March 2, 2025

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz (left) and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

Waltz added: 'We also had the NATO Secretary-General on the phone with the president before President Zelensky came. We welcome Europe stepping up for Europe, but they have to also invest in the capabilities to do so.

'All of that was evident was before Friday, and he [Zelensky] could have been left with economic guarantees that benefited Ukraine [] it's really confounding to us why we had such hostility coming in.'

Should the US withdraw from NATO and cease to provide security guarantees to the continent in the face of threats from Russia, Europe would need to dramatically increase its nuclear weapons stockpile, experts have warned.

Maximilian Terhalle, a former Senior Adviser for strategic affairs to Britain's Ministry of Defence and Visiting Professor at the Grand Strategy Programme of King's College London told The Telegraph: 'We need to be on par with Russia's 1,550 strategic warheads. Otherwise we will not strategically influence what is going on in Putin's mind, which is critical for deterrence.'

Russia has more than 5,000 nuclear warheads at its disposal, with 1,550 strategic warheads deployed in line with the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) - though Putin suspended Moscow's participation in 2023.

By contrast, Britain and France - the only nuclear armed powers in Europe - have a shared total of just over 500 warheads.

Recognising Europe's vulnerability in the event of a US withdrawal from NATO, German Chancellor-elect Friedrich Merz declared last month he would explore the possibility of forming a nuclear triumvirate with Britain and France.

Merz, who is currently trying to get the outgoing Bundestag to vote through a constitutional change that would allow Germany to dramatically boost defence spending, said: 'We have to talk to the British and French whether their nuclear protection could also be extended to us.

'(This is) an issue that the French government has repeatedly raised with the German government... We must talk to each other about what that could look like.'

It comes as NATO's former Supreme Allied Commander in Europe said the alliance could be in its 'last days' and predicted that European members may come together to form a new security pact.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France's President Emmanuel Macron embrace after holding a meeting during a summit at Lancaster House in central London on March 2, 2025

Front row, left to right: Finland's President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Poland's PM Donald Tusk. Centre row from left: Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez, Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Antonio Costa, Canada's PM Justin Trudeau and Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan. Back row from left: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, Netherlands PM Dick Schoof, Sweden's PM Ulf Kristersson. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Norway's PM Jonas Gahr Store, Czech Republic's PM Petr Fiala, Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni and Turkey's foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

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Admiral James Stavridis, who served as the NATO's Europe commander from 2009-2013, told CNN: 'We could see the end of NATO and the start of what might be called the European Treaty Organisation, ETO.'

US President Donald Trump has not yet spoken on the possibility of an American withdrawal from NATO, though former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton admitted last month that such a scenario is 'highly probable'.

The Trump administration has however made it clear that European members of the transatlantic security bloc must shoulder the responsibility for their own security and that of Ukraine as the White House focuses on a showdown with China.

NATO's nuclear deterrence is heavily reliant on the US, which has the second largest stockpile of nukes at around 5,200 to Russia's 5,800 - though more a thousand of them are thought to be retired and awaiting disarmament.

Several hundred of these warheads are deployed in countries in Europe - primarily at locations in Germany, Italy and the Netherlands, to serve as a deterrent for the continent.

NATO conducts a major nuclear exercise every year to ensure its readiness and to deter any would-be aggressor - primarily Russia.

However, while European members of the alliance contribute aircraft for use in a nuclear deployment scenario, Washington retains ultimate control over the use of these weapons.

Any suggestion that the US could withdraw support from NATO is therefore a serious cause for concern for European defence chiefs, who could see their nuclear capabilities completely diminished.

Ukraine has been fighting for its survival for the past three years, ever since Russian forces rolled across its borders.

Zelensky has been hailed a hero for leading the resistance, but he has received a very different reception in Washington since Trump returned to power.

He was berated by the president and his vice president in the Oval Office after he told them that Putin was not a man to be trusted.

In London, he tried to offer a more positive take on the U.S.-Ukraine relationship.

'I think our relationship will continue, because it's more than an occasional relationship,' he said late Sunday. Trump's post linked to those comments as he berated the Ukrainian leader.

Keir Starmer embraced Volodymyr Zelensky on the steps of Lancaster House in London as they try to repair alliances in the wake of the debacle

It is more than three years since Russian forces invaded Ukraine.

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer (C), French President Emmanuel Macron (C-L) and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (C-R) attend a meeting with European leaders during a summit on Ukraine at Lancaster House in London, Britain, 02 March 2025

Trump's comments come as key national security figures were expected to meet with the US President to discuss the future of American aid to Ukraine.

A source said Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz were expected to join with other senior officials to work out next steps.

Zelensky and European leaders want a U.S. 'backstop' to any peace deal. They believe U.S. air power or air defense systems are essential for deterring any future Russian attack but are ready to deploy U.K. and French peacekeepers if a deal can be done.

American officials have said that a minerals deal, giving the U.S. a huge stake in Ukrainian reserves of critical rare earth deposits, would be enough to protect Ukraine.

But the British prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said Monday: 'The mineral deal is not enough on its own.'

Key Trump officials have lined up to warn Zelensky that time is running out for him.

'The American people's patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited, and our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited,' Waltz told Fox News. 'So the time to talk is now.'
Growing numbers of publishers are opting not to print paperback versions of books, forcing customers to purchase pricier hardcovers, according to a report.

Fewer paperback books are being printed each year amid the rising popularity of audiobooks and eBooks, The Wall Street Journal found.

In the past, paperback releases would come out about a year after hardcovers and allow writers a second chance to bump their sales.

'When I began in the business you could expect retailers to look at hardcover sales and order twice that in paperback,' Gail Ross, a literary agent at William Morris Endeavor told the outlet. 'Now it's just the oppositehalf as much, at best.'

Now, publishers are choosing to skip paperbacks to save on printing costs and make more money on hardcover sales.

Publishers, authors, agents and retailers all earn more on hardcover title, and authors usually get royalties of about 15 percent of the hardcover price, according to the Journal.

'If retailers aren't ordering the books at a high-enough volume to ensure some financial return, publishers won't bother printing the paperbacks,' said Dan Conaway, a senior literary agent with Writers House.

'[For authors] profoundly demoralizing that a book that might have taken four years to write and was published with such promise is done after five months.'

Growing numbers of publishers are opting not to print paperback versions of books, forcing customers to purchase pricier hardcovers

The trend appears to be hitting nonfiction paperbacks particularly hard. New adult nonfiction paperback titles fell 42 percent from 2019 to 2024 according to database Bowker Books in Print.

Author Ian Buruma doesn't have a paperback version of his popular book 'The Collaborators: Three Stories of Deception and Survival in World War II' that was published nearly two years ago.

'Of course one wants one's books to go into paperback,' said Buruma. 'Publishers make their decisions based on commercial realities, and there's very little I can do about it.'

However, the country's largest bookstore chain, Barnes & Noble, said they are trying to boost nonfiction paperback sales by selecting one a month to promote and buy 'tens of thousands' of copies for each pick.

But the company's senior director of books said publishers today are putting their emphasis on fantasy and 'romantasy' paperbacks rather than nonfiction.

'If they were getting behind more great nonfiction titles, we'd carry them,' she said.

Literary agent Andrew Wylie said one contributing factor is that Amazon.com, the country's largest online bookseller, sometimes charges less for hardcovers than for new paperbacks.

One example the WSJ found is a 2023 hardcover copy of Jean M. Twenge's 'Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silentsand What They Mean for America's Future,' cost $18.69 on Amazon in late February, while the new paperback edition, published in January, cost nearly $2 more.

Fewer paperback books are being printed each year amid the rising popularity of audiobooks and eBooks

An Amazon spokeswoman said they base make their prices bases off their competitors.

'We work hard every day to offer customers low prices,' the spokeswoman said.
A woman who brutally dumped her boyfriend after winning a 1million scratchcard jackpot is now splashing the cash with her new lover.

Charlotte Cox, 37, has been flaunting a brand new 50,000 BMW and treating her new partner on luxury holidays.

But her ex Michael Cartlidge, 39, claimed they bought the Lotto card together at a Nisa in Spalding, Lincolnshire.

He said the mum-of-one promised to share the winnings but weeks later Mr Cartlidge was dumped and Ms Cox was deemed the sole winner by lottery chiefs.

Now, a few months on, she has shared a romantic picture with her new boyfriend, Kyle East.

Sources told The Sun Ms Cox paid for a romantic holiday to Turkey for the new lovebirds - who have set up a catering company together.

Unfortunately for the jackpot winner, her new burger van has already broken down.

In another post, she revealed a sparkling grey BMW that she purchased with her winnings.

Charlotte Cox, 37, shared a romantic picture with her new boyfriend, Kyle East (pictured)

Michael Cartlidge, 39, (pictured) claimed Ms Cox initially agreed to share the cash, but after walking out on him weeks later, said she was the sole winner

Charlotte Cox, 37, (pictured) has been flaunting a brand new 50,000 BMW and treating her new partner on luxury holidays

Ms Cox revealed on Facebook a shiny grey BMW that she purchased with her winnings (pictured)

Friends poked fun at the lottery controversy in the comments.

One wrote: 'Blimey!!! Where d'you get the money for that?!!' with a wink emoji.

And Ms Cox responded: 'Like the world don't know!

'I won't tell anyone I've won the lottery but my ex will', with a cry-laughing emoji.

Another commented: 'That photo is worth a million pounds.'

Security engineer Mr Cartlidge admits that Ms Cox paid for and scratched the ticket.

But he claims that he suggested the idea to buy one in November 2023 and attempted to transfer her cash in the shop to cover the purchase.

He says that Ms Cox initially agreed to share the money, but after walking out on him weeks later, claimed to be the sole winner.

Just weeks after the ticket was bought at at a Nisa in Spalding, Lincolnshire, Ms Cox (pictured) was deemed the sole winner by lottery chiefs

According to Allwyn's rules, only the name written on the back of the ticket can claim the prize - Allwyn have ruled Ms Cox (pictured) as the rightful claimant

Lottery chiefs Camelot previously launched an investigation  which included viewing CCTV footage from the shop.

On January 25, a Camelot official sent a message to the former couple saying that the legal team were still deciding what to do but that a draft was being prepared regarding the sharing of the prize.

Mr Cartlidge claimed Camelot had indicated that the money would be split.

On February 10, less than two weeks since new owner Allwyn took over the running of the National Lottery, Mr Cartlidge was sent a letter saying he was not entitled to any money.

According to Allwyn's rules, only the name written on the back of the ticket can claim the prize.

Allwyn have now ruled that Ms Cox is the rightful claimant.

Mr Cartlidge said: 'I can openly admit that we wouldn't have got that ticket without Charlotte, but she wouldn't have got it without me either.

'I know it was her bank account that paid for it, but it should go 50-50, morally.'

Ms Cox (pictured) previously faulted Mr Cartlidge's claims that she agreed to split the jackpot

The couple had been together for three months before the lotto drama started.

On the night of the win, Mr Cartlidge had been living at Ms Cox's house.

They decided to pop to their local Lidl to buy duck pancakes for dinner.

They then went to the Nisa next door to buy a couple of 5 scratchcards.

To their amazement one of the scratchcards landed them the 1million jackpot and just a few weeks later Ms Cox dumped Mr Cartlidge.

Ms Cox previously faulted his claims, she said: 'I bought the ticket. He didn't transfer me the money.'
Cars have been washed out to sea after massive floods hit a Spanish island with authorities warning tourists to stay indoors.

Heavy rainfall has seen the streets of Gran Canaria become raging rivers as water levels rise.

Piles of mud and dirt have covered the streets as torrential rain battered the popular holiday island.

Brown water aggresively streamed through the archipelago with cars dragged under bridges and into the sea.

Dramatic footage posted online shows a woman being rescued from a submerged car and dragged to safety as soil-coloured water rapidly moves down the street.

One video shows a car being rapidly swept tens of metres into the sea as strong rain hits the island.

In another clip, a car is caught up in the swell before it is flushed down the road and out of view.

A state of pre-alert was issued by authorities across the Canary Islands on Saturday, March 1 after torrential rain hit the archipelago at the weekend.

On Monday, Aemet, Spains national weather agency issued a red alert across Gran Canaria as the weather is set to continue this week.

Heavy rainfall has seen the streets of Gran Canaria become raging rivers as water levels rise

A car is caught up in the swell before it is flushed down the road and out of view on the streets of Gran Canaria

Emergency services are on high alert and authorities have warned people to avoid unnecessary travel

Cars have been washed out to sea after massive floods hit the Spanish island

A state of pre-alert was issued by authorities across the Canary Islands on Saturday, March 1 after torrential rain hit the archipelago this weekend

Dramatic footage posted online shows soil-coloured water rapidly moving down the street as it rushes in from the sea

One car was dragged tens of metres into the sea as the island battled with torrential rainfall

The car was pushed out into the sea by rapid moving soil-coloured water

A partially submerged car remains stuck following flash floods in Telde

While some cars were dragged into the sea by the aggressive floods, others lay vertical, stuck or destroyed. Bollards rattled and bins were also swept away by the heavy streams.

A number of vehicles were dragged into the Las Bachilleras ravine.

A clean up operation began as residents and firefighters picked up shovels and brushes to clear mounds of mud in the streets and houses of the badly affected Salinetas neighborhood in Telde.

Local news website Canaria Weekly said that emergency services remain on high alert and authorities have warned people to avoid unnecessary travel.

The heaviest rainfall is expected in Gran Canaria and the southeast of Tenerife with Aemet warning it could last until late this evening.

The weather agency has also said that there is a possibility thunderstorms could hit the island.

However, authorities have said that conditions are set to improve by Wednesday with no further weather warnings in place.

In Tenerife, at least 80 people were trapped in a supermarket according to local reports.

A car was swept away by the rain in the Las Bachilleras ravine, in Telde

Spanish weather agency has said that there is a possibility thunderstorms could still hit the island

Some cars have been swept out to sea by the torrential rain, while others are damaged

Authorities have said that conditions are set to improve by Wednesday with no further weather warnings in place

People clean mud after heavy rain in the Salinetas neighborhood in Telde

People have been working together to clean mud inside a garage after heavy rain

In Valencia, a red alert has also been issued with schools closed across the region as a safety precaution.

A red warning is the highest level of alert and is only issued when there is a serious risk to life.

Warnings have been sent out and residents have been advised to seek higher ground until the weather passes.

Last year flash floods in Valencia and other parts of Spain killed more than 200 people, destroyed thousands of homes and triggered mass protests against regional authorities.

The most up-to-date reports indicate that 223 people lost their lives, with at least 31 still missing, making it Spain's deadliest weather disaster in decades.

Extreme rainfall triggered massive floods in the Spanish island

Pictures taken in Valencia show water flooding down into the street as flash floods threaten the region once again

Warnings have been sent out in Valencia and residents have been advised to seek higher ground until the weather passes

In Valencia, a red alert has been issued with schools closed across the region as a safety precaution

The emergency response included the deployment of over 2,000 personnel from Spain's military emergency unit, who worked alongside local responders and volunteers to conduct rescue and recovery operations.

An additional number of more than 30,000 volunteers were mobilized, from all over the country, to support the cleanup efforts.

To date, hundreds of families have lost their homes and thousands have seen their vehicles destroyed.
A woman returning home from Mexico was stung by a scorpion while trying to retrieve her suitcase from a Boston airport's baggage claim.

The unexpected attack left the 40-year-old victim in agony as she was rushed from Boston Logan International Airport's Terminal E to the hospital on Sunday around 7:30 pm, Boston EMS told WCVB.

Police have not publicly named the woman and there have been no updates on her condition. It is also unclear how the arachnid ended up in the airport and what species it was.

A spokesperson from the Massachusetts Port Authority told DailyMail.com the agency does not have any further details about the shocking incident.

Even though scorpion stings can be extremely painful, they are hardly ever life-threatening, according to the Mayo Clinic.

In the rare case of a critical incident, children ages six and younger are the most vulnerable, the Cleveland Clinic says.

However, most of the scorpions in North America are not venomous and there has not been a reported death from a scorpion sting in the US for more than 50 years.

Most of the time, symptoms - which include painful tingling, numbing, swelling and redness - go away without any treatment after about two days, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

A woman returning home from Mexico was stung by a scorpion while retrieving her suitcase from a Boston airport's baggage claim (stock image)

The unexpected attack left the 40-year-old victim in agony as she was rushed from Boston Logan International Airport's Terminal E to the hospital on Sunday around 7:30 pm

But in more severe cases, the symptoms may become more unbearable within 24 hours, so people should seek attention from a medical professional to make sure their health does not take a turn for the worse.

'Healthy adults usually dont need treatment for scorpion stings,' the Mayo Clinic's website reads.

'Young children and older adults are most at risk of serious complications.'

Scorpions are common in some parts of Massachusetts, including Charlestown which is about two miles outside of Boston, according to F&W Pest Control.

The creatures generally live in desert areas, but can also be found in the forests of Brazil, British Columbia and the Himalayas, National Geographic reported.

There are more than 2,000 species of scorpions, but only an estimated 30 to 40 of them are poisonous enough to kill someone.

The unnamed woman's unexpected airport encounter comes about a year after a man claimed his testicles were stung by a scorpion at Los Vegas' Venetian resort.

Michael Farchi of Agora Hills, California, was staying at The Venetian over Christmas when he was suddenly awoken in the middle of the night in agonizing pain.

'I just felt like someone stabbing me in my private area,' Farchi told 8newsnow.

There are more than 2,000 species of scorpions, but only an estimated 30 to 40 of them are poisonous enough to kill someone (stock image)

After going to the bathroom to investigate - he saw a scorpion 'hanging' on his underwear.

Photographs from the dreaded scorpion attack show proof of the terrifying bright orange eight-legged animal.

The orange scorpion was most likely an Arizona bark scorpion - the only type of the species that is considered 'deadly.'
A hammer-wielding madman smashed several airport display screens six months after a similar rampage at the same location.

Emmanuel Bony, from Haiti, lost his temper after an airline staffer reportedly declined to provide him assistance to return to the Caribbean nation at Santiago International Airport in Chile on February 21.

Bony, who had Chilean his residency revoked for the earlier attack, was using megaphone to communicate with the workers and was told to leave by security, according to news outlets.

He returned 10 minutes later and violently chased the workers away.

Footage showed Bony using a hammer to shatter a row of screens behind and near the ticket counter.

He shouted as he paced around and walked past terrified passengers, who recorded the madness.

Eventually, Bony walked over to the airport's glass sliding doors and shattered one.

Security and bystanders attempted to calm him as he walked over to a restaurant and broke a chest-high row of glass panels.

Emmanuel Bony, from Haiti, lost his temper after an airline staffer reportedly declined to provide him assistance to return to the Caribbean nation at Santiago International Airport in Chile

Emmanuel Bony, a Haitian migrant, also destroyed a glass panel at a restaurant at Santiago International Airport on February 21

The following day, Bony was placed under arrest by the Investigations Police of Chile and agents seized a knife, matches and flammable liquid.

A court judge ruled to keep Bony in pretrial detention for up to 60 days while investigators and prosecutors work on the case.

Witness Ricardo Aguilera told online news portal BioBio that the incident could have been avoided had the airline agent been more understanding.

'He tried to communicate with the people there, but the girl who was attending him didn't want to talk to him, she just kept repeating, "I don't understand you," without showing any interest in his problem,' Aguilera said.

'If someone had a little more empathy, all this would not have escalated,' said Aguilera, who added that Bony never threatened any of the passengers.

'Imagine if he had a gun. He could have killed several people and no one would have done anything.'

Emmanuel Bony addresses reporters August 28, 2024, a day after he destroyed an American Airlines ticket counter at Santiago International Airport and claimed he acted out of frustration after he was not allowed to check in for a flight because he did not have a visa

Bony went viral on August 27, 2024 when he went berserk at an American Airlines counter at the airport by taking a hammer out of his backpack and smashing items at the counter.

He then walked over to a luggage trolley and began to wheel it away before a woman approached to confront him.

Bony claimed he paid $1,000 for a ticket to Miami, but he was not allowed to check in because he did not have a visa.

He was released a day later and was ordered to appear monthly before a judge. He was also barred from entering the airport.
This is the terrifying moment a car sped past pedestrians moments before fatally ploughing into a crowd of people in the German city of Mannheim.

CCTV footage shows a black car, which rammed into a crowd of people in western Germany leaving two dead and at least 11 injured, hurtling through the city as one pedestrian leaps out of the way just in time. Others stare on as the car rushes past.

Seconds later the small black Ford smashed into a crowd in the city centre.

Terrified shoppers desperately fled the scene in the Paradeplatz area of downtown Mannheim after two people - a 83-year-old woman and a man aged 54 - were killed when the car smashed through the group.

Police said 11 people have been injured, five of whom are in serious condition, after it was initially reported that 25 people had been injured.

Earlier shaky footage shows dozens of people rapidly leaving buildings and dashing down the roads in the German city after the horrific incident.

Several people were seen lying on the ground in the aftermath, with two people apparently being resuscitated, an eye witness told Reuters.

President of the State Criminal Police Office, Andreas Stenger, said at a press conference that the suspected driver - a 40-year-old German man - shot himself in the mouth when he was arrested, local newspaper Mannheim24 reports.

One pedestrian trying to cross the road leaps out of danger just in time as the car rushes past near the Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, on March 3

The CCTV footage shows a black car, which rammed into a crowd of people in Mannheim hurtling through the city as pedestrians stare on

The footage shows the car speeding past just seconds before it smashed into a crowd leaving two dead and at least 11 injured

The car is out of shot within seconds as it zooms past pedestrians, before hitting the crowd

The man reportedly used a blank round and is currently being treated in hospital. His condition is thought to be stable.

The public prosecutor told local media that there are indications that the perpetrator is mentally ill.

The man, said to be working as a gardener, deliberately drove into the group of people in Mannheim and tried to hit them, police president Ulrike Schaefer told Mannheim24.

The alleged perpetrator had been previously jailed for causing bodily harm, police said, adding that the man had also been caught driving under the influence ten years ago.

His latest conviction was in 2018, when he had to pay a fine for a hateful comment on Facebook.

A witness, sitting at a restaurant on Paradeplatz at the time, told Welt that 'all hell broke loose'.

He said he did not see the crash, but 'people running away in panic' and police everywhere, even on the roofs.

Authorities revealed this afternoon that they had arrested a 40-year-old German man after the incident. Reports have stated that the suspect was believed to be armed and was arrested around 30 minutes after the deadly attack.

'At the current stage of the investigation, the perpetrator is a lone perpetrator who has already been arrested. Evidence of a second perpetrator cannot be confirmed at this time. There is currently no danger to the population!,' Mannheim Police wrote in a post to X.

Earlier footage showed captured shoppers making the mad dash down the street to flee the scene

Footage shows dozens of people fleeing a major incident in Mannheim, Germany today

Police investigators check a damaged car at the scene after a vehicle was driven to pedestrians in Mannheim

A police spokesperson at the scene told Welt that they could not yet rule out a second attack, but almost all streets and bridges leading out of the city are being controlled by police with submachine guns, while a helicopter circles over Mannheim.

The city center should be avoided 'on a large scale,' the police wrote in a post on Twitter/X.

The incident occurred as crowds gathered in cities across regions including Germany's Rhineland for parades to mark the carnival season.

Police were on high alert for this year's carnival parades after social media accounts connected to ISIS called for attacks on the events in Cologne and Nuremberg.

Mannheim's University Hospital meanwhile said that it was preparing for a possible mass accident with multiple casualties, according to Welt.

Eight trauma teams have been brought together for both adult and child potential victims of the incident.

Mannheim police said in a statement on Monday: 'There is currently a police operation in Mannheim city center, in the area around Wasserturm/Plankenkopf.

Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, after a serious incident, Monday March 3, 2025

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'Police and rescue services are on their way. Further information is not yet available. In this context, there may be temporary traffic disruptions in the city centre.'

Police would not disclose what prompted the large law enforcement presence in the city center but a spokesperson said the incident had been reported as 'a life-threatening deployment situation.'

Police spokesperson Stefan Wilhelm told n-tv television that an 'incident' occurred at around 12:15 p.m. in the Paradeplatz area of downtown Mannheim that triggered a large police deployment. He said he couldn't give details.

Authorities pushed an alert on the Katwarn app telling people in Mannheim to avoid the city's downtown area due to a big police deployment.

Katwarn is used by officials to communicate information about major emergencies such as thunderstorms, militant attacks or fires.

Security has been a key concern in Germany following a string of violent attacks in recent weeks, including deadly car rammings in Magdeburg in December and in Munich last month, as well as a stabbing in Mannheim in May 2024.

Mannheim was blighted by a mass stabbing when a man ambushed and attacked several people at a rally hosted by the anti-Islam Citizen's Movement Pax Europe group.

At least 39 people, including a two-year-old child, were also injured in Munich last month when a man drove a car into a crowd of 1,000 strikers.

Footage from the scene captured the moment the driver was arrested, as cops swarmed the vehicle and pinned him to the ground.

A general view shows the scene after a SUV vehicle was driven into pedestrians in Mannheim, Germany, 03 March 2025

Mounted police patrol near the scene after a car drove into a crowd, in Mannheim, Germany

Emergency workers stand by during a major operation in the city center of Mannheim, Germany

File photo. Mannheim police near the scene where several people were attacked in 2024

It came just weeks after a car drove into a group of people at a Christmas market in the German city of Magdeburg, killing at least six and injuring nearly 70.

In December, the country was also rocked by an attack in Aschaffenburg, Bavaria, when a 28-year-old man stabbed a two-year-old boy and a passerby to death in a German park.

Two people were killed and three injured, police said.

There was no initial suggestion Monday's incident in Mannheim was a deliberate attack.

Mannheim, population 326,000, lies about 85 kilometers (52 miles) south of Frankfurt.
Unnerving images have revealed the gruesome evidence left by a cheating Utah mom accused of murdering her husband after a night of drunken sex, according to police.

Jennifer Gledhill, 42, was denied bail on Friday after a court saw incriminating evidence tying her to the alleged murder of her husband Matthew Johnson, who has been missing from their $1 million home near Salt Lake City since September.

The body of the former national guard, 51, has yet to be found, but prosecutors say Jennifer shot him dead after a night of whiskey-fueled sex that followed her confession of adultery.

Prosecutors showed images they say prove that Jennifer brutally killed the father of her three children as he slept, before dragging his lifeless body and the blood-soaked evidence out of their home.

The court saw images of blood stains on a carpet that was underneath the bed in the couple's bedroom, where detectives believe Matthew was killed as he slept. DNA analysis confirmed it was Matthew's blood, per prosecutors.

Prosecutors also exhibited a GPS tracking map showing that Jennifer traveled north the day after the alleged murder, on September 21, to a location where Matthew's red truck was found.

At the same location, police say they found a vehicle storage container floating in a creek. Investigators say the inside of the container tested positive for Matthew's blood, as reported by Fox 13.

An eerie snap of the couple's bedroom where the whiskey-fueled sex and subsequent murder took place was also shown in court.

GPS data also revealed that Jennifer traveled to another location in the same county where police found the couple's mattress and pillows wrapped up in a rug from the their home.

Jennifer Gledhill, 42, is accused of killing her husband Matthew Johnson in their Utah home

Detectives say the above image shows a blood stain found in the rug directly under the couple's bed. Police say Jennifer killed Matthew Johnson as he slept in bed

Police say they found the vehicle storage container pictured in an area Jennifer drove to the day after the alleged murder. The container reportedly tested positive for Matthew's DNA

Jennifer Gledhill, 42, was arrested in early October after her husband Matthew Johnson, 51, vanished and was later charged with his murder

Prosecutors also showed the court a 2023 image they say shows Matthew by the same rug Jennifer dumped alongside the mattress.

Jennifer was allegedly having an affair with a man who told police she confessed to shooting Matthew while he slept. Jennifer allegedly said she out his body in a storage contained and then loaded it into her minivan.

Her alleged calls with her unidentified lover were shared at the bail hearing.

'Right before [Jennifer] reported Matthew missing, [her lover] recorded a phone call with the defendant,' prosecutors said.

'In the phone call, the [Jennifer] apologizes for telling [her lover] about what happened, she tells him to not think of her as a monster and to remember her who she was before she opened her mouth.'

Prosecutors then began quoting Jennifer verbatim, including references to Johnson in the past tense before he'd been reported missing.

'I think that the fact that you got scared of me, that part like broke my heart because I was like "wow if you think I could even heard a fly," she said.

The couple's bedroom is seen above. Police say they matched blood stains in the room to Matthew's DNA

Matthew's red pickup truck was found north of the couple's home near Salt Lake City

Prosecutors also exhibited a GPS tracking map showing that Jennifer traveled north the day after the alleged murder, on September 21

'Like he just, he is, he's not a person. He wasn't a person anymore he wasn't Matt anymore.'

But far more chilling words were to follow, the hearing was told.

Jennifer's secret lover, whose name has never been shared, told her that he was frightened by what she confessed.

He asked how she would feel if the roles were reversed, which she responded, 'not if I deserved it.'

'I always preach that I was like the queen of hearts in my past lives because I'm like "Off With Their Heads.",' Jennifer is then said to have bragged.

'I'm like if we could just round up the scum of this Earth and put them on an island or just kill them all I could shipshape this country back into a good place,' Gledhill said.

He is said to have been shot dead as he slept and his body has never been found.

Attorneys for Jennifer, who denied murder at a hearing last month, claim the newly-released phone calls were taken out of context.

GPS data also revealed that Jennifer traveled to another location where police found the couple's mattress and pillows wrapped up in a rug from the their home

Prosecutors also showed the court a 2023 image they say shows Matthew by the same rug Jennifer dumped alongside the mattress

Detectives showed the court images of blue lighting detecting blood on the storage container

Matthew was reported missing on September 23.

Jennifer was arrested after her unnamed lover told police that she'd told him about killing her husband.

In a police interview after her October 3 arrest, she claimed to have separated from Matthew - only to spend the evening of September 20 talking and drinking liquor with him.

She said they then had sex that night, and 'informed (the officer) due to the intoxication from the whiskey she had a hard time recalling the events that took place after her and Matthew had sex', the search warrant said.

Jennifer said Matthew 'became upset' during their evening together, but could not recall why.

Her unnamed lover told police Matthew was upset at discovering his wife had been cheating on him.

The man contacted police after Jennifer allegedly confessed to the murder, which led to her arrest.

Police claim the mom-of-three opened fire on Johnson as he slept at their $1 million home (pictured) in Cottonwood Heights, a suburb of Salt Lake City

Johnson's remains have yet to be found, and Gledhill pleaded not guilty to the charges

Gledhill's parents Thomas and Rosalie Gledhill have also been charged in the murder after police revealed that witnesses saw them cleaning her house

Jennifer's parents Thomas and Rosalie Gledhill have also been charged in the murder.

Police revealed that witnesses saw them cleaning her house for five hours following the alleged murder.

Jennifer's mother was even suspected of buying a new mattress for her daughter to replace the one Johnson is said to have bled out over after being shot dead.
President Donald Trump returned from his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida to the White House on Sunday evening with a few unexpected extra guests in tow.

Billionaire Elon Musk, now a special adviser to Trump, was spotted boarding the president's Marine One helicopter with his mother Maye, and his son X  A-12.

Prior to takeoff, Musk's mother was seen through the windows engaged in an animated conversation with her son and grandson.

Melania Trump's father Viktor Knavs also traveled with the president on the trip back to the White House.

It involved a helicopter ride from Mar-a-Lago to an airport in Florida, a flight on Air Force One to a military base just outside Washington D.C., and then another helicopter to the White House.

Knavs exited the helicopter with President Trump after it landed at the White House, and walked in with the president as reporters shouted unanswered questions.

Musk followed, putting his son on his shoulders and waved to the cameras as his mother walked beside him, also waving.

DOGE chief Musk's critics immediately complained on social media about his mother getting a 'free ride' on Air Force One, paid by taxpayers.

'This is beyond outrageous,' complained a Democratic political strategist on X. 'Elon Musk, his cranky mother Maye, and one of his young kids were chauffeured in Air Force One and Marine Onestraight to the White House, where theyre apparently staying.'

The White House did not respond to a DailyMail.com request for comment.

Elon Musk, front left, holds hands with his son, X as he walks with his mother, Maye Musk, top left, down the stairs of Air Force One

Elon Musk and his mother Maye departs Marine One on Sunday March 2, 2025 at the White House after a weekend in Florida with Donald Trump.

Elon Musk and his mother Maye departs Marine One

It is normal for a president to bring extra guests on Air Force One and Marine One, particularly extended family members.

President Biden routinely brought extended family members of his family on Air Force One and Marine One, including his son Hunter and his wife and family, grandchildren and spouses, and even nephews and nieces.

But Musk's mother's appearance on the flight appeared an extraordinary privilege for a presidential adviser.

Maye Musk commented about her visit to Mar-a-Lago on X, sharing a video of her son and Trump surprising guests at the club over the weekend.

'It was wonderful to experience the excitement and happiness in the room,' she wrote with heart-eyes emojis.

It's unclear exactly why she traveled with her son to the White House, but it might coincide with the president's address to Congress scheduled for Tuesday.

As Musk is likely to attend the speech, he may bring his mother as a guest.

Since the election, Maye Musk's profile has never been so prominent as her son remains a very influential advisor to Trump.

Elon Musk's mother Maye appeared at the Inaugural balls with his sister

Maye Musk was spotted riding in Marine One by photographers and speaking to Trump and her son

Canadian-South African model Maye Musk (R) and chief designer Taoray Wang of Chinese brand Juzui

Maye Musk was born in Canada, but raised her children in South Africa.

In 2019, she published a book titled "A Woman Makes a Plan: Advice for a Lifetime of Adventure, Beauty, and Success."

She has been spotted at several social events at Mar-a-Lago and frequently travels to China, Kazakhstan and the United Arab Emirates for business.

Maye Musk has also made several business trips to China where she has endorsed five different Chinese brands, according to the New York Times.

Last month, she appeared on the catwalk to promote the Chinese label Juzuis at the New York Fashion Week show and had lunch with Ivanka Trump and Wendi Deng, the former wife of Rupert Murdoch.

She also appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2022, modeling a swimsuit at the age of 74 in 2022.

Elon Musk's sister Tosca and mother Maye Musk

Maye Musk and Elon Musk at The 2022 Met Gala

Maye Musk appeared on Fox Business in December where she spoke about her son's relationship with Trump as well as her own experience with the president-elect's family.

'Trump just likes someone he can completely trust who doesn't have any alternative motives,' she said, referring to her son.

She said she had also shifted to the Republican party in the 2024 election, urging other Democrats to follow her.

'It's a gradual change when you are Democrat to become Republican, it's really hard and I would encourage Democrats to take a chance and they will be happier,' she said.

Maye Musk said she was a big fan of the Trump family and spoke warmly of the time they had spent together.

'Everyone is delightful, kind, sweet, generous and interesting and soft spoken,' she said.
The daughter of a woman who was murdered more than 30 years ago has made an emotional television appeal on Crimewatch to help find her killer.

Shona Stevens, 31, was found with serious injuries on a footpath in a wooded area only yards from her home in Irvine, Ayrshire, at around 1.20pm on November 10, 1994.

The mother of a seven-year-old daughter had suffered severe head trauma and died in hospital three days later. Her killer has never been caught.

At the 30th anniversary of the horrific killing last year, a reward of up to 20,000 was offered by Crimestoppers.

Ms Stevenss daughter Candice, now 37, appeared on BBC Ones Crimewatch Live programme yesterday to urge people to come forward with information.

She said: My mum was my inspiration. Every moment I got to spend with her I cherished and I only wish I could have known her as an adult.

I have tried to follow her ideals. She was incredibly bright, academic, multi-talented and just such a beautiful person.

I was seven-years-old when I lost my mum. When I saw her coffin thats when it hit me that she was gone.

Murder victim Shona Stevens was found yards from her home in Irvine, Ayrshire in 1994

Ms Stevens's (pictured) daughter Candice, now 37, described her mother as an 'inspiration' and 'a beautiful woman'

Losing my mum has impacted every facet of my life. To anyone thats got any information about Shonas case, please, please share whatever you know with the police.

Any little bit of information, however insignificant you think it may be, please share it.

Its been 30 years. My mum deserves justice, my gran is 90-years-old and she deserves justice and so do I.

Police said Ms Stevens walked to the Co-op in Bourtreehill shopping centre at around 1pm on the day she was attacked.

She was last seen walking alone on Towerlands Road at around 1.10pm.

Ten minutes later, she was found in a wooded area near to the back of Alder Green, only 200 yards from her home.

Police said they believed her killer had local connections and urged anyone with information to contact them.

Detective Inspector Stuart Gillies, from Police Scotlands major investigation team, said: There is always the possibility that there are further witnesses that havent been identified or havent come forward.

Thirty years have passed and Im confident that there are answers in the community.

Mr Stevens (pictured with her daughter) suffered severe head trauma and died in hospital three days later. Her killer was never caught

The manner of this incident is shocking and it continues to be investigated as a priority.

I want to hear from anybody who has got any information that can help us advance this investigation. We are desperate for answers for Shonas family and the community.

In 2021, detectives released images of a distinctive novelty keyring in a fresh bid to solve the cold case.

Police said the cartoon-style figure looked as if it had broken off a keyring and was found during the initial search of the crime scene.
Rep. Nancy Pelosi is warning her fellow Democratic lawmakers to avoid making themselves part of the story during President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday.

This word of advice, however, goes against what happened during Trump's State of the Union address in 2020 when all anyone was talking about was Pelosi ripping up the papers on which the speech was written.

Pelosi, who was House Speaker at the time of those remarks but is now just a rank-and-file member of Congress, is still a figure whom younger lawmakers look to for counsel.

Her seven-word guidance: 'Just let him stew in his own juice.'

Trump will deliver his annual speech to both chambers of Congress on Tuesday at 9:00 p.m. in the first address of his second term to a joint session.

Freshmen members and other Democrats who have not yet had to sit through one of Trump's speeches were anxious on how they should act and sought advice from Pelosi.

On February 4, 2020, Trump delivered the final State of the Union address of his first term.

The night began with Trump refusing to shake Pelosi's hand as she and then-Vice President Mike Pence took their seats behind the president. And it ended with Pelosi ripping up the speech and waving the shredded pieces of paper toward her allies there that night.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi doesn't want congressional Democrats to repeat her mistake from 2020 when her speech-ripping moment went viral and become the center of the story on President Donald Trump's State of the Union address that year

'When I saw that every page was a lie, I had to tear it up,' Pelosi recalled to The Washington Post in an interview on Thursday. 'Parchment is very hard to tear.'

She detailed how the stiff paper required 'a few' rips instead of 'one smooth' motion to obliterate it.

Five years later Pelosi will now attend the joint session as Trump returns to the chamber for the first time since that speech.

And this time, Pelosi doesn't want her or other Democrats to make themselves part of the story.

'Any demonstration of disagreement, whether it's visual or whatever, just let him stew in his own juice,' the California Democrat said, according to the Post. 'Don't be any grist for the mill to say this was inappropriate.'

Instead, she wants to hear what Trump has to say and hopes the president will bury himself.

'I'm going there to hear what he has to say about Medicaid, about taking medical care away from more children, middle-income seniors who need long-term health care, and people with disabilities,' she said of her reason for deciding to attend Trump's upcoming speech.

Trump is expected to champion his America First policies and further preview his administration's priorities over the next four years after taking bombshell and wide-sweeping action in his first month back in the Oval Office.

'TOMORROW NIGHT WILL BE BIG. I WILL TELL IT LIKE IT IS!' the president previewed in a post to Truth Social on Monday morning.

While similar to a State of the Union address, the joint address of a president made less than two months after being sworn-in does not bear the same official name.

This year, Pelosi doesn't have a spot behind Trump's dais.

Instead Vice President J.D. Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) will take seat behind Trump for his speech on Tuesday.

Trump will deliver an address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday at 9:00 p.m.  the same type of remarks as the State of the Union address but without the official name in his first few weeks after being sworn-in

Pelosi is not in leadership any more but she still brings in big bucks through fundraising for Democrats, and she is active in encouraging the party to narrow their message in the 2026 midterms if they want to take back control in Congress.

The 84-year-old is a mentor to many members after serving 19 terms in the lower chamber.

It's likely they will take her directive to remain out of the spotlight seriously, but the caucus is also known for making scenes and statements at previous joint congressional addresses  like wearing colors or pins in protest or support of their policies.
Defence has never been the strongest suit of the SNP - ever since the late Alex Salmond dismissed air strikes against Serbia in 1999 as unpardonable folly.

In fact, the British intervention in Kosovo ended what the United Nations later described as a systematic campaign of terror.

Three years ago, Nicola Sturgeon called for a no-fly zone above Ukraine - a move which experts warned could trigger a Third World War.

Its on this ramshackle basis that hapless John Swinney and his colleagues have made their latest stumbling intervention into the pressing matter of defending the realm.

Mr Swinney last week reiterated the SNPs opposition to the Trident nuclear deterrent - though admittedly it was hard to figure out his justification for the continuation of his bizarre heard-in-the-sand approach.

He said he was against the possession of nuclear weapons, adding: Theres obviously resources that could have been spent alternatively on defence than on Trident missiles, which are not stopping conflict in the world today and theyre not able to be deployed in the current challenges we face.

Yet the whole point of these weapons is that no one is able to deploy them without fearing a reciprocal response - and the threat of mutually assured destruction has prevented global nuclear warfare for decades.

Stopping conflict in the world today is a noble aim but its pie-in-the-sky nonsense to suppose that it could ever happen  and one wonders where Mr Swinney would rather spend the money.

The SNP, led by John Swinney, has long opposed Britain's Trident nuclear deterrent, based near Helensburgh, Argyll

Alas, when it comes to granular detail he had nothing much to say, and nor did his colleague Fiona Hyslop, the Transport Secretary, who reiterated the SNPs rejection of Trident during BBC Radio 4s Any Questions on Friday.

In a rambling answer to a question about whether or not the SNP is opposed to Trident, Ms Hyslop said her party is against nuclear weapons  it always has been, adding: We are a target here, having nuclear bases here, I understand why our allies are very interested in our position on this.

I dont believe in terms of where we go that it is the way to defend the country in the longer term.

Make of that incoherent reply what you will, but Ms Hyslop went on to condemn the undermining of the conventional defence forces.

She lamented that we are a coastal nation and Russian submarines are frequently at the north of Scotland - and you know where were defended from? Southampton.

This strange assertion led to her conclude that maritime support isnt there for Scotland, as if Trident  based at Faslane on the Clyde  didnt exist.

The SNP viscerally loathes the weapons programme which keeps us safe from nuclear aggressors but is happy to imply that the UK Government, which funds and backs Trident, has left Scotland woefully under-defended.

Submarines from Faslane and interceptor and maritime patrol aircraft from RAF Lossiemouth are critical to defending the north of Scotland.

Mr Swinney and his clueless cohorts are churning out the kind of drivel that would shame a school debating society, clinging on to the easy platitudes of the past while ignoring the cold, hard realities of the present.

It was left to Tory MSP Megan Gallacher to spell out the potentially dire consequences of shutting down Faslane - including the loss of 13,250 jobs.

An exasperated Douglas Alexander, now a UK Government trade minister, pointed out that NATO is a nuclear alliance  so that an anti-Trident stance is incompatible with membership.

The SNP states that it intends to take its place as a member state in its own right of both the European Union and NATO in the event of independence - in time-honoured fashion, the Nationalists want to have their cake and eat it.

Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Crawford, a former SNP defence spokesman, suggested that the partys General Election manifesto last year served more to maintain internal party unity than to persuade the broader electorate.

He concluded that the SNP can rest easy in the knowledge that they will have no opportunity to deliver their defence promises in the near future.

It is true that Denmark and Norway are in NATO - and dont allow nuclear weapons on their territory.

Mind you, Jens Stoltenberg said when he was Nato secretary general that an independent Scotland would not automatically become a member of the group - and would have to gain the approval of all 28 allies before it could rejoin as a new country.

Ms Hyslop rightly highlighted that the Armed Forces had been run down by successive governments  as Mr Alexander conceded, Murrayfield stadium in Edinburgh could accommodate the entire 75,000-strong British Army.

Yet its worth remembering that the SNPs White Paper defence plans ahead of the 2014 independence referendum appeared to have been sketched out on the back of a fag packet - and amounted to a kind of Dads Army Third World militia.

The bolstering of our sorely depleted Armed Forces has been belatedly prioritised by Sir Keir Starmer  something that probably wouldnt have happened without a Trump presidency  with a commitment to increase defence expenditure to 2.5 per cent of GDP from April 2027, and an ambition to reach 3 per cent in the next parliament.

Back in 2021, the SNPs then Commons defence spokesman Stewart McDonald warned against the UK Governments plan to increase its nuclear warheads stockpile, describing it as an expensive folly [theres that word again] that should be cancelled with immediate effect.

Yet at the weekend German political scientist Maximilian Terhalle, a visiting fellow at Stanford Universitys Hoover Institution, said Europe needs to acquire nearly a thousand more nuclear warheads if it hopes to deter Vladimir Putin.

The scale of the nuclear stockpile in the UK is unclear - but the ceiling is no more than 260 warheads, whereas Europe only has several hundred.

There are also calls to ramp up production of warships, given that Scotland is considered to be at the heart of the Royal Navys warship-building - with two Frigate programmes that will deliver 13 UK vessels in the coming years.

Scotland is also the base for P8 Poseidon submarine-hunting aircraft and half of the UKs Typhoon fast jet fleet, with RAF Lossiemouth supporting around 3,600 jobs, and 10 per cent of the local economy.

Critical elements of the new Dreadnought class of submarine, which will replace Vanguard as our continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent, are being shaped at Rosyth and on the Clyde.

All of which is happening despite the SNPs fervent opposition to Trident  it prefers to continue inhabiting a parallel universe, while threats to our security continue to multiply in the real one.

We need leaders who can be taken seriously on defence of the realm  not sixth-form fantasists who are willing to gamble with national safety to advance their own narrow political agenda.
It didn't take long for Democrats to fall back on their failed 'Russia, Russia, Russia' playbook  but here we are.

On Sunday, Connecticut Democratic Senator Chris Murphy accused Donald Trump of running his White House like an 'arm of the Kremlin.'

Sound familiar?

After deploying the 'Russian Collusion' lie  financed by Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign and spread by a negligent mainstream media  in 2021 to derail the first months of Trump's first term, the Left is at it again.

But now, beyond sabotaging a duly elected president and needlessly dividing the country, their underhanded tactics are standing in the way of peace  and even flirting with World War III.

Here's the undeniable truth: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a serious mistake in his Oval Office meeting with the president on Friday.

All he had to do was put on a tie, say 'thank you,' eat lunch and sign an agreement providing for US involvement in the development of Ukrainian raw earth minerals.

It's a deal that would have come with a tacit US security guarantee. And if Zelenskyy had grasped that then he would have set his country on a possible path to resolving the conflict with Russia.

It didn't take long for Democrats to fall back on their failed ' Russia , Russia, Russia' playbook  but here we are. (Pictured: Kamala Harris and President Zelenskyy in June 2024).

Here's the undeniable truth: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a serious mistake in his Oval Office meeting (pictured) with the president on Friday.

Instead, he decided to lecture and become argumentative with Trump and his cabinet. The results were predictable.

But if you listen to many Democrats and those in the pundit class, they seem to be cheering Zelenskyy on  and accusing Trump of all manner of traitorous behaviors.

Trump is a 'coward who is Vladimir Putin's puppet,' said Democratic Congressman Seth Moulton. And, he claimed, Zelenskyy is a 'hero.'

'Trump sides with dictators bc [sic] it legitimizes his plan for America: a Russian-style kleptocracy where the rich steal from us to enrich themselves,' Senator Murphy tweeted on Sunday.

It's rhetoric that rivals the most deranged Democratic smears of 2020.

But even Washington Post columnist Josh Rogin grudgingly conceded to me on CNN Friday night that I was right and Zelenskyy made a terrible misjudgment. And Rogin is as pro-Ukraine as they come.

So, what's really going on here?

By Murphy's own admission, he was with Zelenskyy before that disastrous Oval Office meeting. I can't claim to know what he said  but judging from Murphy's tweets I can hazard a decent guess.

I suspect that he and others on the Left are  at the very least  stoking Zelenskyy's fears that Washington is selling him out.

Now, I am one to respect those who hold high elected office, but I wouldn't hire Murphy to blow up balloon animals at a kid's birthday, let alone discern the finer points of diplomacy, or, perhaps most importantly, the mood of the America.

A new CBS News poll shows that a majority of Americans approve of Trump's handling of the Russia-Ukraine war, while Biden's rating at the end of his term was 22 percentage points underwater.

In August of 2022, only 31 percent said they supported a deal that allowed Russia to keep some of the land it has already captured in return for a quick end to that war. Today, 50 percent want the war to end under those terms.

It's a sea change. And if Zelenskyy doesn't ignore the Democrat clown show  and comes to grips with this new reality than he risks losing US support entirely.

Ukraine is not going to secure a US security guarantee by which the United States agrees to put boots on the ground. Ukraine is not a member of NATO and won't be anytime soon.

Surely, Zelenskyy must recognize the dire position he's in. At this point, he must send a clear message that he wants to partner with the United States on Trump's terms. And for goodness sakes, he must stop airing his grievances in public.

But on Monday, Zelenskyy appeared to double-down on obstinance  telling the Associated Press that, 'an agreement to end the war is still very, very far away.' In response, President Trump called a meeting of his cabinet to reportedly consider a possible suspension of US military aid to Ukraine.

Connecticut Democratic Senator Chris Murphy (pictured) accused Donald Trump of running his White House like an 'arm of the Kremlin.'

That's, no doubt, a worst-case scenario. But lest you think that Trump is being unfairly harsh with his Ukrainian counterpart, it's worth noting that former President Joe Biden also lost his patience with Zelenskyy.

NBC news reported that during a 2022 phone call, Biden lost his temper and instructed Zelenskyy to 'show a little more gratitude' to his American patrons.

Additionally, Friday's public meltdown allegedly followed 10 days of Zelenskyy being difficult in private, according to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Even I, a supporter of Ukraine and someone who believes that Putin is a murderous, evil thug who cannot be trusted, have begun to question whether Zelenskyy is truly ready to take off the military fatigues  literally and figuratively  and don the cloak of diplomacy.

He's running out of time to prove  and he should be more cautious who takes advice from.
Melania Trump made the first public remarks of her second tenure as first lady on Monday, speaking out against revenge porn and deep fakes generated by AI.

In her speech, she slammed Democrats for their lack of support on the issue.

'I expected to see more Democrat leaders with us here today to address this serious issue. Surely as adults, we can prioritize America's children ahead of partisan politics,' she said.

Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna of California was the only Democratic lawmaker at the event, which took place in the U.S. Capitol building.

Melania Trump arrives in the Capitol for an event in support of a law outlawing revenge porn

Melania Trump also used the event to relaunch her Be Best initiative.

'In today's AI-driven world, the threat of privacy breaches is alarmingly high,' she noted. 'As First Lady, my commitment to the Be Best initiative underscores the importance of online safety. In an era where digital interactions are integral to daily life, it is imperative that we safeguard children from mean-spirited and hurtful online behavior.'

Republican Senator Ted Cruz led the roundtable discussion, where the first lady heard from teenage girls who were victims of fake online pornography using AI.

Cruz sponsored the Take It Down Act, which increases protections for victims of non-consensual sharing of sexual images known as 'revenge pornography' and that includes content generated by artificial intelligence, also known as deepfake porn.

It also requires websites to make a reasonable effort to take down the images within 48 hours of a complaint being filed.

One of the victims will be the first lady guest on Tuesday night when President Donald Trump addresses a Joint Session of Congress.

Elliston Berry, 15, will sit in Melania's box. Her mother and stepfather Mark and Anna McAdams will also be there.

Elliston said she was just 14 when a classmate used AI to edit a photo from social media into a nude photo with her head attached to it.

'I was 14 years old when I was violated all over social media,' she said.

'I came here today to not only promote this bill but to fight for the many survivors. It is so inspiring to know that my voice is being heard, giving hope to not only me, to all the many people that have been affected by this. It is truly so amazing how this awful situation has turned to good,' she added.

Melania Trump joined others in the room in giving Elliston a round of applause.

Elliston Berry, left, will be First Lady Melania Trump's guest on Tuesday night when President Donald Trump addresses a Joint Session of Congress

First lady Melania Trump (center) was joined by Republican Senator Ted Cruz (fourth from right) and Speaker Mike Johnson (second from right)

Senator Cruz noted Elliston is from Texas and that his how he became aware of the issue  when her mom called his office.

'Elliston's mom said she had called Snapchat, she emailed them, she tried repeatedly take this garbage down of my daughter, and she'd got no response at all, no movement,' Cruz said.

He then personally called the CEO of Snapchat and got the images removed.

'It should not take a sitting senator or sitting member of Congress picking up the phone to get a picture down or a video down. It should be the right of every American, every teenage girl victimized, should have the right to get this garbage taken down, and this bill will give them that right as a matter of federal law,' he said.

Cruz also noted he was 'confident that when this bill is signed into law' each of the victims present would get invited to the signing ceremony and get one of the pens used by President Trump to sign it.

He noted that 'they're big pens.'

The senator then said to the first lady: 'Your husband does nothing small.'

Melania laughed in response.

Speaker Mike Johnson joined the first lady to hear from the victims.

He and the first lady chatted after the event.

Melania Trump shakes hands with Elliston Berry as Francesca Mani (left) checks her testimony

Melania Trump chats with Rep. Lisa McClain and Speaker Mike Johnson

And Cruz took a photo with Elliston Berry, 15, and Francesca Mani, 16. Both girls testified about their experiences. The first lady chatted with them and their parents for several minutes.

Melania Trump told them: 'Keep up the good work. Stay strong.'

Melania Trump will be back on Capitol Hill on Tuesday night for President Trump's Joint Address to Congress. She'll hosts guests in her box in the House chamber.
More than a third of pupils missed out on their first choice secondary school in some areas yesterday amid a scramble for places.

Data released on National Offer Day showed up to 36 per cent missed out in parts of London, while elsewhere in the country it was up to 26 per cent.

Overall, one in five are expected to be disappointed - although early data suggests the situation may have slightly improved on last year.

A straw poll of councils around the country showed the majority had seen a rise in families getting their first choices.

However, experts yesterday said competition was still fierce for places at the best schools, leading to a high number of rejections.

Pepe DiIasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said: Some families will be disappointed.

The demand for secondary school places has been rising for a number of years and is expected to increase again this year.

Highly sought-after schools - often in more affluent areas with strong Ofsted ratings - face intense demand, while others struggle with lower pupil numbers, creating financial challenges.

Data released on National Offer Day showed up to 36 per cent of students missed out on their first choice secondary school in parts of London (file image)

Pepe DiIasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (pictured) said: Some families will be disappointed.

Data collated by the councils of London showed 28 per cent of pupils missed out on their first choice, down from 30 per cent last year.

However, it was 36 per cent in the worst-hit boroughs of Greenwich, Lewisham and Hammersmith, and more than 30 per cent in 13 other boroughs.

Meanwhile, a survey of 70 councils by the Press Association found 44 had seen an increase in the proportion getting their first choice, 24 saw a decline, and two had no change.

Among the areas with high acceptance rates were East Riding in Yorkshire where only 2 per cent missed out.

In comparison, in Manchester and Birmingham, 26 per cent missed out.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders union NAHT, said: There is a lot of pressure on secondary school places at the moment, as we are experiencing a population bulge in that age group that is due to peak in 2026/2027.

Although the majority of pupils will still get their first choice of secondary school, that doesnt take away from the difficulty and disappointment experienced by those families who have missed out.

He also said a high number of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) would likely miss out on a special school place.

Data collated by the councils of London showed 28 per cent of pupils missed out on their first choice of secondary school, down from 30 per cent last year

A straw poll of councils around the country showed the majority had seen a rise in families getting their first choice of secondary school

He added: Simply asking mainstream schools to support more pupils with Send without providing the essential staffing, funding and resources they require could have a detrimental effect on those children.

Full data on admissions across the country will be released by the Government later this year.

A Department for Education (DfE) spokesman said: Families should be confident their child can go to a good local school, that meets their needs, so they can achieve and thrive.

The SEND system this Government inherited has been failing to meet the needs of children and families for far too long, with a lack of early intervention and support in mainstream schools.

Through our Plan for Change, we are determined to improve inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, making sure special schools cater to children with the most complex needs and restoring parents trust that their child will get the right support.
Five passengers were injured by extreme turbulence that forced a United Express flight to make an emergency landing in Texas.

SkyWest flight 5690 was traveling from Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston on Sunday evening. SkyWest was operating the flight for United Express, which is a regional branch of United Airlines.

The Bombardier CRJ-200 departed the gate at 4:48 pm and took off at 5:03 pm CST, according to FlightAware.

But panic ensued among the aircraft's 32 occupants - including 29 passengers -when storm-related turbulence left the pilot with no choice but to divert the plane.

The plane landed at Waco Regional Airport at 6:29 pm and arrived at the gate at 6:37 pm, where those onboard were greeted by first responders.

'Roughly around the 6:30 pm timeframe, and made an emergency landing here in Waco, Texas, in order to deal with the potential injuries onboard the aircraft,' Regional Airport interim director of aviation Michael Reisman told Fox 44.

SkyWest Airlines wrote in a statement to DailyMail.com: 'SkyWest flight 5690, operating as United Express from Springfield, MO to Houston, landed safely at Waco Regional Airport Sunday after experiencing turbulence.

The Waco Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management responded to the chaotic scene 'very quickly,' Reisman said.

Five passengers were injured by extreme turbulence that forced a United Express flight to make an emergency landing in Texas (stock image)

Three flights had to make an emergency landing at Waco Regional Airport on Sunday evening

But panic ensued among the aircraft's 32 occupants - including 29 passengers -when storm-related turbulence left the pilot with no choice but to divert the plane

'Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital with minor injuries. SkyWest and United are making sure all customers get the care they need and dispatched another aircraft to fly the customers from Waco to Houston.'

All five of those patients were treated and released from the hospital, a Baylor Scott & White Health spokesperson told KPTV on Monday.

A plane took off from the Waco airport to Houston at 1:17 am on Monday, according to FlightAware.

The Houston-bound jet was just one of three planes that had to stray from its route and abruptly land in Waco on Sunday night.

The other two planes were American Airlines flights headed to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

Despite the unanticipated interruptions, the people onboard those two flights also eventually made it to their final destinations.

On Sunday evening, severe storms moved over the northern Texas 'metroplex,' which includes the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington and Sherman-Denison metropolitan areas.

From Monday night into Tuesday morning, rain, sleight, thunderstorms and even tornados are expected to land in North Texas, CBS reported.

The plane landed at Waco Regional Airport at 6:29 pm and arrived at the gate at 6:37 pm, where those onboard were greeted by first responders

Sunday night's triple-plane dilemma comes as Americans are growing increasingly weary of air travel.

Since the start of 2025, a passenger jet and military chopper collided over Washington DC, an air ambulance exploded in Philadelphia and a Delta flight flipped during a Toronto landing.

These incidents - among others - have made many fliers fearful about boarding their next flight - but aviation specialists say the risk is not as great as it seems.

'Flying is so safe that your most dangerous part of the flight is actually driving to the airport and driving home,' Jeff Baum, a pilot of over 50 years and the president of Wisconsin Aviation, told WMTV.

Although statistics point to a positive trend in US air travel, it is understandable to feel hesitant about about boarding an aircraft, according to Wisconsin-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker Sydney Zettler.

Zettler explained: 'Theres two kinds of common thoughts that can drive anxiety, catastrophizing and probability over estimation.

'This example, is theres maybe more travel anxiety given recent plane crashes in the United States.'
Boston's woke Democrat mayor has shockingly doubled down on statements expressing sympathy for a knifeman killed while attempting to stab two people.

Mayor Michelle Wu, who rose to prominence after hosting a 'no whites' Christmas party, faced backlash for expressing condolences to the family of a man killed when an off-duty police officer saved customers at a Chick-fil-A from the terrifying incident.

Boston police said two people ran into the Chick-fil-A in Copley Square while being chased by a man with a knife who was attempting to stab them shortly before 5:30pm, as reported by NBC10.

The off-duty cop inside the restaurant identified himself to the attacker and demanded the knife dropped before before opening fire, according to police.

Mayor Wu sparked controversy in the aftermath of the incident as she offered sympathy to the attacker's family.

'My condolences and all of our thoughts are with the family of the individual whose life has been lost,' she said.

'I am also thinking of all the people who were impacted here today in one of the busier parts of the city with this tragedy. I'm glad the officer is safe and very grateful for a quick response from all of our first responders.'

Despite getting slammed for her remarks, Wu defended herself on Monday.

Boston's woke Democrat mayor has shockingly doubled down on statements expressing sympathy for a knifeman killed while attempting to stab two people

An off-duty police officer shot and killed a knife-wielding attacker inside a Chick-fil-A (pictured) on Saturday

'It's unfortunate to politicize being at the scene of a tragic incident,' she said, adding that 'every loss of life is a horrible tragedy.'

'Our officers are in extremely difficult and dangerous situations every single day keeping our resident safe. I expressed condolences because every loss of life is a horrible tragedy,' she continued, as reported by ABC10.

'I am also grateful every hour of every day for the work of our Boston police officers.

'In this case, we had an off-duty officer who saw something happening, his training kicked in, he took action and surely saved lives.'

Social media users were shocked that Wu's first comment on the incident was to offer sympathy for the knife-wielding attacker.

'An off-duty police officer in Boston saved lives on Saturday by neutralizing a knife-wielding maniac who chased two people into a Chick-fil-A. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu reacted by bizarrely giving condolences TO THE ATTACKER. Democrat leaders treat criminals as victims,' one person said.

'The Boston Mayor is offering her condolences to the family of the victimswait never mind shes offering condolences to the person who tried to MURDER people. WTF??' said another.

Others slammed Wu for not thanking the officer who stopped the attacker or explicitly addressing the bystanders he was trying to stab.

'These so called political leaders are despicable. How about thoughts and prayers for the cop and his family who acted bravely to save our citizens,' one person said.

'They tell you who they really care about... certainly NOT the tourists visiting Boston nor the victims of the attempted stabbings,' said another.

'Seriously?!?!?! Smfh! How about showing concern for the people who this individual tried to attack & were in fear for their life! Maybe if this idiot DIDN'T TRY STABBING A BUNCH OF RANDOM PEOPLE he would still be alive,' a third person said.

The incident occurred Saturday evening at the Copley Square restaurant when two terrified victims rushed inside, desperately fleeing from a man armed with a knife who was attempting to stab them.

An off-duty police officer confronted the attacker and clearly identified himself as law enforcement before ordering the man to drop his weapon.

According to Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox: 'The officer then instructed the man to drop the weapon, to which he did not comply. The officer then discharged his weapon to stop the threat and the armed man was struck.'

Democrat Mayor Michelle Wu (pictured) offered her condolences to the family of a man who was killed by police while attempting to stab two people

'He was then taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced [dead]. The officer was transported to a hospital for evaluation, but at this time, there are no other reported injuries.'

The knife-wielding suspect was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The heroic officer was taken to hospital for evaluation. No other injuries were reported in the incident.

DailyMail.com contacted Mayor Wu's office for comment on Saturday's condolences.
Ex-Barclays boss Jes Staley has said the bank knew about his ties to paedophile Jeffrey Epstein - as he appealed against a 1.8million fine and ban by the City watchdog.

Mr Staley is accused of recklessly signing off a letter from the bank to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) that inaccurately played down the nature of his relationship with Epstein.

But his lawyers say the case against him is flawed and that he had provided top executives and directors at the bank with a clear understanding that hed had a close professional relationship with Mr Epstein, extending over many years.

That was one of the factors which caused Barclays to retain confidence in Mr Staley after the authority opened and continued its investigation, they added.

Mr Staley quit Barclays in October 2021 after the FCA informed him of its preliminary conclusions.

He was subsequently fined and banned from holding senior roles in the financial sector by the watchdog. Yesterday, he launched an appeal against the penalty.

Wearing a dark grey suit and flanked by his legal team, 68-year-old Mr Staley listened intently as the legal proceedings opened in a central London tribunal.

It kicked off a two-week hearing which will take evidence from Barclays chairman Nigel Higgins and Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey - who previously led the FCA - as well as Staley himself.

Jes Staley (pictured) is accused of signing off a letter from the bank to the Financial Conduct Authority that inaccurately played down the nature of his relationship with Epstein

Jes Staley and wife Debbie Staley attend the GMHC 35th Anniversary Spring Gala at Highline Stages in 2017

Jeffrey Epstein killed himself in a US prison in 2019

The case centres on a letter from Barclays to the watchdog in October 2019 which contained statements which were inaccurate and misleading, the FCA argues.

They were that Mr Staley did not have a close relationship with Mr Epstein and that his last contact with Mr Epstein was well before he joined Barclays in 2015.

A cache of emails disclosed to the FCA by JP Morgan - Mr Staleys former employer - cast doubt on those claims and it launched an investigation later in 2019.

The FCA pointed to a statement by Mr Staley to Epstein that he had few so profound friendships as that with him and that he was like family.

It also noted his visits to Epsteins homes, shows of support to him and sharing of private and confidential or sensitive information.

But the FCA said that between 2015 and 2019, Mr Staley sought to minimise the closeness and duration of his relationship with Mr Epstein to others including Barclays executives and directors.

Mr Staley was aware of the risk which his association with Mr Epstein posed to his reputation and his career, it said.

Epstein was jailed for child sex offences in 2008 and was arrested again in 2019. He died in prison that year while awaiting trial for sex trafficking offences.

Staley (far left) is seen in an undated photo with Epstein. From left: Staley, Larry Summers, Jeffrey Epstein, Bill Gates and Boris Nikolic

Mr Staley quit Barclays in October 2021 after the FCA informed him of its preliminary conclusions

Staley was fined and banned from holding senior roles in the financial sector by the watchdog. Yesterday, he launched an appeal against the penalty

Lawyers for Mr Staley said in an opening argument provided to Londons Upper Tribunal: Mr Staley has never attempted to conceal his relationship with Mr Epstein.

They said that even before the FCA began looking into it, he had already provided Barclays with a significant amount of information relating to the nature and history of his relationship with Mr Epstein, and he had done so of his own accord.

Mr Staleys lawyers said the letter to the watchdog was intended to achieve only one purpose, which was to inform the Authority that neither Mr Staley nor Barclays had had any knowledge of or involvement in Mr Epsteins unlawful conduct and not intended to define the relationship between the two men.

They said the FCA has become overwhelmed with the email correspondence passing between Mr Staley and Mr Epstein over the course of many years.

It focused on the smallest discrepancies and inconsistencies in Mr Staleys recollection of the events relating to the history and nature of his relationship with Mr Epstein, the lawyers claimed.
Donald Trump stepped up the pressure on Volodymyr Zelensky Monday with a stark warning: Sign up to a peace deal or risk annihilation.

The U.S. president spoke to reporters at the White House after an investment announcement, and used the occasion to further ratchet up pressure on the Ukrainian leader.

He said Zelensky should be 'more appreciative' of American aid if he wants Washington's help and made clear his frustration after their Oval Office summit on Friday descended into a slanging match.

On Monday, Trump was asked what Zelensky needed to do to resume talks with Washington.

'Well, I just think you should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin,' he said, before repeating a falsehood about levels of American aid.

'We've given them much more than Europe, and Europe should have given more than us.'

Trump is pushing for a rapid deal to end the war in Ukraine.

His administration has held talks with Kyiv on a rare earth minerals deal that would allow Washington to recoup some of its costs.

Donald Trump spoke to reporters in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Monday

However, Zelensky and his European allies fear a peace deal with Moscow that is not backed by U.S. military might could allow Russian President Vladimir Putin to simply renew his attack later.

Trump said he would give an update on the minerals deal during his speech to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night.

And he hinted Zelensky might not survive long if he continued to make demands ahead of a peace deal.

'It should not be that hard a deal to make,' he said.

'It could be made very fast. Now, maybe somebody doesn't want to make a deal, and if somebody doesn't want to make a deal, I think that person won't be around very long. That person will not be listened to very long.'

After the clash in the Oval Office, Zelensky traveled to Europe where leaders rallied around the embattled Ukrainian leader.

He tried to paint the U.S.-Ukraine relationship in a more positive light, but also said that deal between Russian and Ukraine 'is still very, very far away.'

That triggered Trump, who had campaigned on a promise to end the war on day one.

Donald Trump (pictured) slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday, saying he wasn't interested in finding peace just as the American president was due to meet with top officials to discuss whether to end aid to the embattled country altogether

He renewed his attack on Zelensky after his Ukrainian counterpart said peace with Russia 'is still very, very far away.' That infuriated Trump who has upped the pressure on Kyiv to end the war

'This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer,' Trump posted on his Truth Social website.

Trump said: 'It is what I was saying, this guy doesn't want there to be Peace as long as he has America's backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.'

He added in what appeared to be an attack on European leaders: 'Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?'

This comes after NATO chief Mark Rutte last night pointed to promises from more European countries to 'ramp up defence spending', while insisting that Washington remained committed to the transatlantic alliance.

French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that European countries should raise their defence spending to between 3.0 and 3.5 percent of GDP to respond to Washington's shifting priorities and Russia's militarisation.

Last week, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that the UK would increase its defence spending to 2.5 per cent of its GDP, slashing the aid budget, with plans to increase military spending to three per cent soon after.

Donald Trump clashed with his Ukrainian counterpart in the Oval Office on Friday

Trump renewed his attack on Zelensky with a Truth Social post

While the US is the largest single donor of aid to Ukraine, more than 50 allies and partner countries have provided security assurances to Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion in 2022.

As of December 31, 2024, Europe had contributed 132.3bn euros in allocated aid, versus 114.2bn given by the US.

Europe's contributions are also expected to keep flowing; 115.1bn remained to be allocated from Europe, with just 4.84bn from the US.

The key difference is in what the U.S. is able to supply. Britain has been able to match the U.S. with long-range missiles, able to hit deep into Russian territory. And the Challenger 2 tank has been one of the most reliable fixtures on the battlefield.

But American air defences - and their sheer volume - are critical to fending off Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and disrupting utilities.

Long range ATACMS missiles can also 'make a significant difference in the war', according to Olga Tokariuk, Academy Associate, Ukraine Forum, Russia and Eurasia Programme.

The summit between the European leaders, where countries promised to increase their defence spending to react to Washington's shifting priorities and Russia's militarisation, has been commended by US national security advisor Mike Waltz.

'We welcome the Europeans taking a lead in European security,' he told reporters at the White House and even praised Sir Keir and Macron.

'I mean that's been an underpinning. They have to invest in the capability to do that. They're certainly showing a will. Both Starmer and Macron showed that will last week before Friday.'

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, right, greets French President Emmanuel Macron as he arrives for a summit on Ukraine at Lancaster House in London, Sunday, March 2, 2025

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz (left) and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth

Waltz added: 'We also had the NATO Secretary-General on the phone with the president before President Zelensky came. We welcome Europe stepping up for Europe, but they have to also invest in the capabilities to do so.

'All of that was evident was before Friday, and he [Zelensky] could have been left with economic guarantees that benefited Ukraine [] it's really confounding to us why we had such hostility coming in.'

Should the US withdraw from NATO and cease to provide security guarantees to the continent in the face of threats from Russia, Europe would need to dramatically increase its nuclear weapons stockpile, experts have warned.

Maximilian Terhalle, a former Senior Adviser for strategic affairs to Britain's Ministry of Defence and Visiting Professor at the Grand Strategy Programme of King's College London told The Telegraph: 'We need to be on par with Russia's 1,550 strategic warheads. Otherwise we will not strategically influence what is going on in Putin's mind, which is critical for deterrence.'

Russia has more than 5,000 nuclear warheads at its disposal, with 1,550 strategic warheads deployed in line with the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) - though Putin suspended Moscow's participation in 2023.

By contrast, Britain and France - the only nuclear armed powers in Europe - have a shared total of just over 500 warheads.

Recognising Europe's vulnerability in the event of a US withdrawal from NATO, German Chancellor-elect Friedrich Merz declared last month he would explore the possibility of forming a nuclear triumvirate with Britain and France.

Merz, who is currently trying to get the outgoing Bundestag to vote through a constitutional change that would allow Germany to dramatically boost defence spending, said: 'We have to talk to the British and French whether their nuclear protection could also be extended to us.

'(This is) an issue that the French government has repeatedly raised with the German government... We must talk to each other about what that could look like.'

It comes as NATO's former Supreme Allied Commander in Europe said the alliance could be in its 'last days' and predicted that European members may come together to form a new security pact.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France's President Emmanuel Macron embrace after holding a meeting during a summit at Lancaster House in central London on March 2, 2025

Front row, left to right: Finland's President Alexander Stubb, France's President Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Poland's PM Donald Tusk. Centre row from left: Spain's PM Pedro Sanchez, Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Antonio Costa, Canada's PM Justin Trudeau and Romania's interim President Ilie Bolojan. Back row from left: Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte, Netherlands PM Dick Schoof, Sweden's PM Ulf Kristersson. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Norway's PM Jonas Gahr Store, Czech Republic's PM Petr Fiala, Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni and Turkey's foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Admiral James Stavridis, who served as the NATO's Europe commander from 2009-2013, told CNN: 'We could see the end of NATO and the start of what might be called the European Treaty Organisation, ETO.'

US President Donald Trump has not yet spoken on the possibility of an American withdrawal from NATO, though former US ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton admitted last month that such a scenario is 'highly probable'.

The Trump administration has however made it clear that European members of the transatlantic security bloc must shoulder the responsibility for their own security and that of Ukraine as the White House focuses on a showdown with China.

NATO's nuclear deterrence is heavily reliant on the US, which has the second largest stockpile of nukes at around 5,200 to Russia's 5,800 - though more a thousand of them are thought to be retired and awaiting disarmament.

Several hundred of these warheads are deployed in countries in Europe - primarily at locations in Germany, Italy and the Netherlands, to serve as a deterrent for the continent.

NATO conducts a major nuclear exercise every year to ensure its readiness and to deter any would-be aggressor - primarily Russia.

However, while European members of the alliance contribute aircraft for use in a nuclear deployment scenario, Washington retains ultimate control over the use of these weapons.

Any suggestion that the US could withdraw support from NATO is therefore a serious cause for concern for European defence chiefs, who could see their nuclear capabilities completely diminished.

Ukraine has been fighting for its survival for the past three years, ever since Russian forces rolled across its borders.

Zelensky has been hailed a hero for leading the resistance, but he has received a very different reception in Washington since Trump returned to power.

He was berated by the president and his vice president in the Oval Office after he told them that Putin was not a man to be trusted.

In London, he tried to offer a more positive take on the U.S.-Ukraine relationship.

'I think our relationship will continue, because it's more than an occasional relationship,' he said late Sunday. Trump's post linked to those comments as he berated the Ukrainian leader.

Keir Starmer embraced Volodymyr Zelensky on the steps of Lancaster House in London as they try to repair alliances in the wake of the debacle

It is more than three years since Russian forces invaded Ukraine.

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer (C), French President Emmanuel Macron (C-L) and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (C-R) attend a meeting with European leaders during a summit on Ukraine at Lancaster House in London, Britain, 02 March 2025

Trump's comments come as key national security figures were expected to meet with the US President to discuss the future of American aid to Ukraine.

A source said Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz were expected to join with other senior officials to work out next steps.

Zelensky and European leaders want a U.S. 'backstop' to any peace deal. They believe U.S. air power or air defense systems are essential for deterring any future Russian attack but are ready to deploy U.K. and French peacekeepers if a deal can be done.

American officials have said that a minerals deal, giving the U.S. a huge stake in Ukrainian reserves of critical rare earth deposits, would be enough to protect Ukraine.

But the British prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said Monday: 'The mineral deal is not enough on its own.'

Key Trump officials have lined up to warn Zelensky that time is running out for him.

'The American people's patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited, and our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited,' Waltz told Fox News. 'So the time to talk is now.'
A groundskeeper sneaked in and out of a womans home for six months to secretly recover 40 hours of spycam footage he filmed from a vase of flowers.

Andrew Thomas crept into the womans bedroom and set up the hidden camera after becoming infatuated with her while she walked her dog.

The 49-year-old spent months filming the unsuspecting pensioner after concealing his camera phone inside the vase at the foot of her bed.

Thomas, who carried out a similar crime on an oil rig a decade ago, was caught when the horrified victim discovered the device while rearranging her artificial flowers.

The camera phones memory was found to hold more than 40 hours of intimate recordings of the 65-year-old woman in varying states of undress.

He was later discovered sneaking around inside the property by the womans daughter and her partner.

Thomas confessed and admitted having romantic feelings for his victim.

Thomas admitted covertly recording his victim at her home in Perthshire from 29 January to 29 July 2023.

Andrew Thomas (pictured) crept into the womans bedroom and set up the hidden camera after becoming infatuated with her while she walked her dog

Solicitor Linda Clark, defending, told Perth Sheriff Court: It seems that Mr Thomas was infatuated with the complainer.

'He thought a friendship was going to materialise into something different.

That is no excuse to explain his decision to place a recording device within the complainers household. He misinterpreted a situation, but again thats no excuse.

Sheriff Alison McKay deferred sentence and told Thomas: I probably cant send him to custody for as long as he deserves. I absolutely understand the complainer feels completely violated, and feels her home has been violated.

There is no doubt your behaviour was serious and custody is one of the alternatives available to the court.

Fiscal depute Rachel Hill said the woman lived alone in a small village near Thomass home town of Pitlochry.

This is a small rural and close-knit community where most locals know one another, she said. Many residents often leave their homes insecure.

She considered the accused to be a friend and they regularly socialised together with shared coffees, alcoholic drinks and dog walks.

The court heard that in December 2022, Thomas told the woman he had deeper romantic feelings towards her but she did not share them.

Ms Hill said: On July 29 2023, the complainer was in the process of rearranging artificial flowers in a vase at the foot of her bed.

Perth Sheriff Court

She became aware of an object within the vase, which had a camera lens pointing in the general direction of her bed.

Upon further investigation, this was found to be a mobile phone attached to the inside of the vase, connected to a power bank also inside the vase.

The device was described as a white iPhone, stuck on using Velcro, protruding from the vase by about an inch.

The fiscal depute said: It could be seen from the screen that a video recording was taking place. It appeared to have been running for a period of 40 hours and 45 minutes.

When her daughter looked at the photo gallery, she found 34 files.

The following day, Thomas crept into the womans home shortly after she left for church. Her daughter and her partner, who were nearby, saw him.

He claimed to be there for a hedge trimmer battery but was told he had no business being in the house and he agreed to leave. Police went to his home later that day.

The fiscal aded: He openly admitted the offence, stating he had entered the property whilst it was unlocked and placed the camera phone inside the vase.

He said he had returned on numerous occasions to replace the battery but couldnt say how many times.

In 2014, the former offshore worker was handed an unpaid work order after he was caught secretly filming a female colleague showering in her cabin on a North Sea rig.
A detective known as the 'Indiana Jones of the art world' has helped to solve a 50-year-long mystery surrounding a missing painting.

Dutch artist Pieter Brueghel the Younger, whose work usually sells for millions, painted the 'Woman Carrying the Embers' - a round painting measuring around 6.6 inches - around 1626.

It had been on display at the National Museum Gdansk, Poland, until 1974 when it mysteriously went missing, thought to be stolen.

The theft was only discovered when a museum worker accidentally knocked the painting off the wall - only to discover that the drawing laying on the floor was merely a cut out from a magazine.

But more than 50 years later, the famous painting has been located in a museum in Holland thanks to the work of the Dutch police force and the expert art detective, Arthur Brand.

The detective, who has previously retrieved lost paintings of Vincent van Gogh and even Roman statues, said suspicions first arose surrounding the work's whereabouts last year when the piece was spotted at a Dutch exhibition last year by Dutch magazine 'Vind'.

Pieter Brueghel painted the 'Woman Carrying the Embers' (pictured) around 1626 but it mysteriously went missing from a Gdansk museum in 1974

Dutch art detective Arthur Brand, along with the Dutch police, have now been able to locate the painting more than 50 years after it went missing

Brueghel's painting had reportedly been on loan to the Gouda Museum from a private collection.

'A magazine contributor, John Brozious, did some research and stumbled upon an article on a Polish website with an old black and white picture,' Brand told AFP.

'The article was about a theft that took place in Gdansk in 1974 in which two artworks were stolen: "The Crucifixion", a sketch by Anthony van Dyck, and a Brueghel the Younger painting.

'Although the people from "Vind" were not sure, it looked pretty similar to the Brueghel on display in Gouda.'

After a significant amount of research, the well-known detective and the Dutch police were able to confirm that the painting spotted at the exhibition last year was indeed 'Woman Carrying the Embers,' which is said to have been stolen in 1974.

'It's a match!' Brand said.

Polish authorities have been informed of the location of the painting, and are expected to submit a request for legal assistance.

Police in Holland, however, are continuing to investigate how the painting ended up in a Dutch museum.

Brand hopes the painting can be returned to the museum in northern Poland 'where it belongs.'
Honda has decided to produce its next-generation Civic hybrid in Indiana, instead of Mexico, to avoid potential tariffs on one of its top-selling car models.

The change underscores how manufacturers are scrambling to adapt to Donald Trump's proposed 25 per cent tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada.

While several automakers have expressed concerns about the levies, Honda's move is the first concrete measure by a major Japanese car company.

Japan's second-largest automaker had initially planned to manufacture the next-generation Civic in Guanajuato, Mexico, according to three people familiar with the matter.

Production was slated to start from November 2027, according to one of the people.

Mexico was chosen because rising costs were making it tough to produce the car in Indiana and Canada, one of them said.

It now plans to build the new Civic model in Indiana from May 2028 with an expected annual production of around 210,000, one of the people said.

Honda would look to import from nations not hit by tariffs if production in Indiana falls short of demand, one of them said.

US Steel's Gary Works in Gary, Indiana, was once the world's biggest steel mill (pictured in its heyday) but the town declined over the years like much of the rust belt

All of the people spoke on condition of anonymity as the information has not yet been made public.

Honda declined to comment on changes to the Civic production plan, adding the company would continue to take into account demand and the business environment while considering 'optimal production and allocation globally'.

Mexico has long been a lower-cost production hub for Japanese and other global automakers.

Honda sends about 80 per cent of its Mexican output to the US, the world's second-largest auto market after China.

Chief Operating Officer Shinji Aoyama warned in November that Honda would have to think about shifting production if the US were to impose permanent tariffs on imported vehicles.

Honda's case underscores how potentially disruptive the US tariffs would be for industries that cannot drastically alter production plans in the short term given the investment and different production lines in use for different markets.

Honda sold some 1.4 million cars and trucks in the US last year, including Acura models.

It sold more than 240,000 Civics, both gasoline and hybrid models, making the car Honda's second-best seller in the US market after the CR-V.

Trump hopes his tariffs will revitalize the declining rust belt, where factories lie in ruin since blue-collar jobs left town decades ago

Workers at the assembly line of the recently opened Honda Motors factory in Celaya, Guanajuato state, Mexico

US sales of the Civic, known for its affordability, rose 21 per cent year-on-year last year, company data shows.

About 40 per cent of the vehicles Honda sells in the US are imported from Mexico and Canada.

Additionally, it exports around 60,000 cars made in the US to Mexico or Canada, meaning that if those countries introduce retaliatory tariffs, Honda could face further cost increases.

Trump also announced a $100 billion investment by a Taiwanese chipmaker TSMC into the US at an event on Monday afternoon.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co's new investment will come on top of their existing commitments of around $65 billion.

It will go into 'building five cutting edge fabrication facilities,; Trump said during a White House event flanked by TSMC's chief executive, CC Wei.

He added that much of the funding would be invested in the US state of Arizona, where TSMC - the world's largest chipmaker - has already invested heavily, and would create 'many thousands' of high-paying jobs.

The change underscores how manufacturers are scrambling to adapt to Donald Trump 's proposed 25 per cent tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada

Vehicles on the trim assembly line at the General Motors assembly plant in Fort Wayne, Indiana

Hours later, Trump finally announced the tariffs he would impose on Canada and Mexico after last-minute negotiations over border security and efforts to halt the inflow of fentanyl.

Speaking from the White House alongside Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Trump confirmed 25 percent tariffs on America's largest trading partners would start on Tuesday.

He said there was 'no room left' for negotiations, dashing investors' hopes of any possible last-minute deals.

'Tomorrow, tariffs - 25 percent on Canada and 25 percent on Mexico,' Trump said during a press conference. 'And that'll start.  What they have to do is build their car plants, frankly, and other things in the United States, in which case they have no tariffs.'

Trump had earlier vowed to impose 25 percent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico, with 10 per cent for Canadian energy

Trump will make a speech to the nation at a joint sitting of Congress on Tuesday night, which will outline his vision for the next four years.

Donald Trump, accompanied by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, confirmed 25 percent tariffs on America's largest trading partners would start on Tuesday

The government faces a shutdown on March 14 if lawmakers cannot pass a budget. Republicans are fighting with one another on the final figure - on how much the federal government should spend for the rest of the 2025 fiscal year.

And Democrats want reassurances Trump will spend the money as Congress allocates it.

They've also questioned if Trump can legally fire federal workers and end federal contracts without congressional approval.

Some Democratic lawmakers are inviting fired federal workers to the speech as their guest. Each member of Congress gets a plus one.
Conservative filmmakers are outraged that their movies weren't considered for Oscar nominations, with at least one claiming his work was excluded thanks to DEI requirements.

Howard Klausner, the screenwriter of the 2024 presidential biopic Reagan starring Dennis Quaid, said his film wasn't in the running because it didn't meet the DEI guidelines set forth by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The requirements for the Oscars were first put into place by the Academy for the 96th annual ceremony in 2024.

Any film up for Best Picture has to meet two out of four of diversity standards, which involve making sure underrepresented groups are in the cast and/or crew of the film. This includes women, minority racial and ethnic groups, LGBTQ people and people with disabilities.

'I think the situation speaks for itself,' Klausner told Fox News. 'There's not really anger and indignation among those of us who made this film, we didn't seriously expect to be nominated for anything by Hollywood in this cultural climate - it's just sadness, really.'

'We were among 116 films that were eliminated for consideration this year,' he continued. 'Obviously, there needs to be a conversation about this policy.'

Klausner argued that the 'magnificent dream factory' that was once Hollywood is gone.

'Once upon a time it spoke to the heart and dreams of pretty much everybody, and the leaders and luminaries of the 20th century industry intuitively seemed to "get" the middle of the country as well as the cultural elite,' he said.

Howard Klausner claimed that Reagan, a 2024 biopic about the 40th president, was excluded from Oscar consideration because it did not meet the Academy's DEI standards (Pictured: Klausner attends the 'Reagan' premiere on August 25, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee)

Dennis Quaid starred as President Ronald Reagan in the film, which arrived in theaters on August 30, 2024

Matt Walsh said his documentary Am I Racist? made 25 times the amount of the Oscar-winning film

DailyMail.com approached the Academy for comment.

Klausner said he doesn't 'have any axe to grind or fingers to point.' Rather, he's upset that Hollywood is making movies for '10 percent of the population.'

'I choose the 90 percent. I left Hollywood a few years ago to write and produce "heartland films" just like this one. But I love what we once were as an industry, as a voice in the culture. And truly believe we can be that again,' he said.

Matt Walsh, the conservative podcaster and filmmaker behind multiple documentaries, also took a shot at the Academy for snubbing him on Oscar night.

Walsh claimed his 2024 film Am I Racist? made 25 times the amount of No Other Land, the Oscar-winning documentary about Palestinian communities expelled from the West Bank, a region that Israel has been occupying since 1967.

In Walsh's film, which was distributed by Ben Shapiro's Daily Wire, he goes undercover as a DEI consultant and infiltrates various progressive groups.

In the film, he sat down with Robin DiAngelo, the leading anti-racism scholar who coined the phrase 'white fragility.'

In 2022, Walsh also starred in 'What Is a Woman?' a documentary that dissected transgender issues.
Gene Hackman's neighbors admitted they barely ever saw the reclusive Hollywood legend in the decades before he was found mummified with his wife in their New Mexico home.

Hackman, 95, was found dead on his mud room floor Wednesday; his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, lifeless in a bathroom by the front door, with prescription pills scattered around. One of their three dogs died near her.

Two days after the shocking discovery, police announced that they believe Hackman died on February 17, after finding that was the day his pacemaker stopped recording his heartbeat.

Police saw no signs of foul play but are also investigating the deaths as potentially suspicious.

The case is shrouded in the kind of intrigue reserved for Hackman's detective thriller novels and has garnered international attention - with many wondering how their deaths went unnoticed for so long.

Neighbors in their gated private community off a winding canyon road five miles outside of Santa Fe told The New York Times that despite living with the celebrity couple for years, most of them never even caught a glimpse of them.

'They have a gate, and we have a gate, and we just have never even seen each other,' said James Everett, who has lived part-time in a house next door for about five years.

Bud Hamilton lived next door to the couple for about two decades, but said he and his wife had dinner with them only once in 20 years.

Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found mummified in their New Mexico home

Many of their neighbors in the gated private community off a winding canyon road five miles outside of Santa Fe said they had never even met the couple

Longtime resident and former president of the homeowner's association, Harvey Chalker, said Arakawa handled their business and met Hackman once when he bought a pair of hiking shoes from his shop.

'He wanted to be quiet, he didn't want to be bothered, and I don't blame him,' Chalker said.

Fernando Miranda, a neurologist who has owned a house near the couple since 2018, recalling visiting the neighborhood on February 17 and said it is saddening to know the couple may have died then.

'We all sort of cherish the fact that we are isolated,' he said.

Beau Theriot, visits his house in the neighborhood a few times a year, said he saw Hackman using a cane as he walked along the road with his wife a few years ago.

'I know there's some nice people up there, I just don't know them,' Theriot said.

Morgan Freeman paid an emotional tribute to Hackman during the 2025 Oscars In Memoriam segment on Sunday.

Freeman, 87, who starred alongside double Oscar winner Hackman in Under Suspicion and Unforgiven, lauded his friend and co-star as he took to the stage.

Hackman famously played Lex Luthor opposite Christopher Reeve's Superman, but he was known for being a man of steel himself.

As a 16-year-old boy, he lied about his age to join the Marines in 1946.

Filming a heart-pounding car chase for 1971 classic The French Connection, he drove the car himself up to 90mph down busy Brooklyn streets and got in a real-life smash with a student driver who strayed onto the set.

Next door neighbor James Everett said, 'They have a gate, and we have a gate, and we just have never even seen each other'

Two days after the shocking discovery, police announced that they believe Hackman died on February 17, after finding that was the day his pacemaker stopped recording

And some time after he moved to Santa Fe in the late 1980s, an unverified local legend tells of students at St. John's College hopping his gate and getting in his pool, splashing around until they heard a shotgun being cocked and Hackman saying 'Get out of my goddamn pool, you goddamn Johnnies'.

Both he and his wife could pilot an airplane  and did so, even into their advanced years.

Investigators probing their deaths soon found a prescription bottle, surrounded by pills on the countertop in the actor's home.

Three medications were removed from the home, including Diltiazem, a blood pressure medication; a thyroid medication, and Tylenol, according to a search warrant.

Santa Fe Sheriff Adam Mendoza told the Today Show on Friday that the prescription bottle 'is something of concern.'

Mendoza said the medication has been passed onto the medical examiner's office to help them make a cause of death determination. It could be months before the toxicology results come back.

'Were looking at that specifically and other medications, of course, that were possibly in the residence,' he told Today.

'But were hoping [the report] comes sooner than later so we can answer some of these questions and hopefully itll help us in our investigation to help determine the matter and cause of death.'
President Donald Trump on Monday said a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would be 'catastrophic' as the island's chipmaking giant TSMC unveiled a $100 billion investment in the United States.

Taiwan is a major producer of semiconductors and the new deal is designed to make the U.S. less dependent on imported chips.

Speaking to reporters after the announcement in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Trump was asked if the investment would protect the U.S. if China isolated or invaded Taiwan.

'This would certainly, I can't say minimize that would be a catastrophic event obviously, but it will at least give us a position where we have in this very, very important business, we would have a very big part of it in the United States,' he said.

'So it would have a big impact If something should happen with Taiwan.'

Chinese leader has made no secret of his plan to reunite the autonomous island of Taiwan with the mainland.

And Xi Jinping has indicated he will do it by force if necessary.

President Donald Trump on Monday said a Chinese invasion of Taiwan would be 'catastrophic'

Chipmaking giant TSMC unveiled a $100 billion investment in the United States on Monday

Taiwan has its own government and military but has never declared independence

Taiwanese leaders are watching the White House for any sign of Trump's intentions towards the island.

They will not have been reassured by the way Trump has pushed Ukraine to make a settlement with Russia, and told European leaders to step up with more military spending rather than rely on Washington's largesse.

On the campaign trail, Trump said Taiwan needed to spend more on its defense.

And he has accused the island's semiconductor industry of stealing job from the U.S., sending shivers through the island.

On Monday, he welcomed TMSC's chief executive C.C. Wei to the White House as they announced the major new investment.

'We must be able to build the chips and semiconductors that we need right here,' Trump said. 'It's a matter of national security for us.'

Markets tumbled after Trump answered questions about his plans for tariffs.

He said there was no chance for Mexico of Canada to avoid 25 percent tariffs that were due to take effect on Tuesday.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) CEO C.C. Wei (R), accompanied by U.S. President Donald Trump, speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on March 3, 2025 in Washington, DC

'They're going to have to have a tariff,' he said. 'So what they have to do is build their car plants, frankly, and other things in the United States, in which case they have no tariffs.'

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the chip plant investment was an indication that Trump's hardline policies were having an impact.

'Now you're seeing the power of Donald Trump's presidency, because TSMC, the greatest manufacturer of chips in the world, is coming to America with $100 billion investment,' he said.

'And of course, that is backed by the fact that they can come here, because they can avoid paying tariffs.'
A Jamaican criminal jailed for 20 years for a horrific manslaughter has dodged deportation using human rights laws, the Daily Mail can disclose.

The case involves one of the most serious offenders yet to have delayed their removal from Britain by launching challenges under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

The criminal was part of a five-man gang that took the life of an innocent man in an 'unprovoked attack' outside a south London nightclub.

The victim was shot dead with a handgun by another member of the group.

Immigration judges have granted the Jamaican-born killer anonymity and he can be identified only as 'AR', despite having been named in Crown court where he was jailed for 20 years in July 2012.

AR claimed he would be at risk if he was sent to Jamaica and that it would harm his right to a 'private and family life' with his British-based aunt under Article 8 of the ECHR.

The case is the latest in a long line of troubling rulings from the immigration courts over the last 15 years, most of which involve the ECHR.

They include an Albanian criminal who dodged deportation after claiming his son had an aversion to foreign chicken nuggets and a Pakistani paedophile who avoided removal from the UK on the grounds it would be 'unduly harsh' on his own children.

The case involves one of the most serious offenders yet to have delayed their removal from Britain by launching challenges under the European Convention on Human Rights (pictured: European Court of Human Rights)

The criminal was part of a five-man gang that took the life of an innocent man in an 'unprovoked attack' outside a south London nightclub (stock image)

In another recent case, a psychotic Nigerian armed robber and drug dealer has been spared deportation because he would be considered 'possessed' in his home country.

The Mail is barred from publishing the London nightclub victim's name - even though it was contained in a publicly-available immigration tribunal ruling - because to do so could risk identifying his killer.

The victim was shot dead by one of AR's associates outside the club, and AR 'delivered a flying kick to one of the victim's friends'.

On another occasion AR fired a handgun at a group of young men outside a club - which was later found to have been the same weapon used in the earlier killing.

AR was convicted of manslaughter, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and possession of a prohibited weapon.

The killer is believed to have been released from jail several years ago after serving about half of his 20-year term.

He has since got a woman pregnant, the tribunal heard, which may bolster his claim under Article 8.

Last night Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick said: 'This is another appalling outcome which defies all common sense.

'This disgusting man should have been removed from our country a long time ago.

'The right of the British public to live in safety should obviously come before this sick man's right to a 'family life'.

Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick said that this is 'another appalling outcome which defies all common sense'

In February that year Sir Keir Starmer, then in opposition, signed a cross-party letter to then PM Boris Johnson demanding cancellation of 'all further deportations' to Jamaica

'The public will have no truck with his sob stories, including that he might struggle to get a job with a criminal record or have no friends back home.

'He should just be deported immediately.'

Last year AR initially lost his initial human rights appeal against the Home Office's decision to deport him.

AR then appealed to the upper immigration tribunal, which ruled the lower judge had 'erred in law' and ordered the case to be heard again.

AR's lawyers claim that if he is deported to Jamaica he will be 'at risk of serious harm at the hands of a distant relative who it is claimed killed his father in 2011', court papers show.

The tribunal heard that AR was also financially and emotionally dependent on his UK-based aunt, despite being 31.

His partner had also become pregnant with his child, the tribunal was told.It was also argued that he would not be able to gain employment in Jamaica because of his criminal record.

The Home Office told AR of its decision to deport him in October 2020.

In February that year Sir Keir Starmer, then in opposition, signed a cross-party letter to then PM Boris Johnson demanding cancellation of 'all further deportations' to Jamaica.

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood also signed the letter along with Justice Secretary; and Seema Malhotra and Dame Diana Johnson

Ernesto Elliott was convicted of murder and jailed for life at the Old Bailey last month with a minimum sentence of 26 years

It was also signed by Shabana Mahmood, now Justice Secretary; and Seema Malhotra and Dame Diana Johnson, both now Home Office ministers.

The Mail revealed in 2023 how Ernesto Elliott, a Jamaican criminal who avoided deportation following legal challenges backed by the Labour MPs and a host of celebrities, went on to commit murder.

In AR's case, immigration judge Louis Kopieczek ruled the previous decision should be set aside and the case should return to the lower tribunal for a 'fresh hearing'.It is due to take place later this year.

A Home Office spokesman said: 'Following our appeal against this decision it has been sent back to be re-heard. It would be inappropriate to comment further.'
Top civil servants should be sacked as part of a major crackdown on the 250billion annual cost of crime, a new report has urged.

A study by the think tank Policy Exchange, backed by former home secretary Sir Sajid Javid, proposed dismissing all senior managers in the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS), dubbing them simply inadequate.

It also recommended a major expansion in police numbers, building an extra 53,000 prison cells and introducing a minimum two-year jail term for hyper-prolific offenders.

There should also be automatic deportation for all foreign offenders, including the immediate removal after conviction for those handed non-custodial sentences, it said.

In a new estimate of the total cost of crime, it put the tangible cost of crime at 170billion a year and the total including intangible costs, such as fear of crime, at 250billion a year.

Sir Sajid praised the excellent report and, in a foreword, wrote: A situation in which people believe that when they report a crime the police will not follow up and the perpetrator will not be brought to justice is not sustainable.

Restoring that trust, and the rule of law on which prosperity relies, must be a priority for the government.

The think tanks 87-page study said: The quality of personnel in our criminal justice system matters.

And the current leadership in both HMPPS and the MoJ in particular is simply not up to the task of the scale of transformation required of the institutions.

Your browser does not support iframes.

A study backed by former cabinet minister Sir Sajid Javid has said that top civil servants should be dismissed in a crackdown on the 250billion annual cost of money

The report suggests all senior managers in the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and HM Prisons and Probation Service (HMPPS) should be sacked, deeming them 'simply inadequate' (file photo)

The Government should replace, in their entirety, the most senior executive managers of the MoJ and HMPPS.The incumbents are simply inadequate to the task.

None should be promoted or redeployed elsewhere within the civil service. They should be dismissed entirely.

It calculated that the annual cost of crime amounts to 6.5 per cent of GDP, or 170billion a year, covering tangible losses such as stolen items, fraud and criminal damage.

In addition, hidden intangible costs - such as altered behaviour because of the fear of crime - bring the total up to 10 per cent of GDP or 250billion a year, it said.

The study noted there has been acute growth in a range of highly visible crimes, including a 51 per cent jump in recorded shoplifting since 2015, while robberies and knife crime have spiralled upwards by 64 per cent and 89 per cent respectively over the same period.

It called for massive cuts of 5billion a year in other types of public spending so cash can be diverted into fighting crime.Hyper-prolific offenders who have more than 45 previous convictions or cautions should receive a minimum two-year jail term on re-conviction, it added.

Currently, they are jailed for only 26 per cent of the occasions they are convicted in court.

On foreign criminals - who currently make up 12 per cent of the prison population - the report said they should face immediate deportation at the end of their sentence.

'For those sentenced to a community order or suspended sentence this deportation should be effective immediately on sentencing, it added.

Volunteer police officers, or specials, should be remodelled entirely as the Reserves Constabulary with their number increased ten-fold to around 50,000, the report recommended.

The report said that foreign criminals should be immediate deportation at the end of their sentence (file photo)

Chris Philp, Shadow Home Secretary, said: We left office with record number of police officers, having cut crime by 50 per cent in 14 years.

But Labour are soft on crime and risk undoing all of our good work. It would serve them well to read this report closely.

Police should be spending time catching criminals, not policing Facebook and Twitter.

We need to see a zero-tolerance approach to crime, and prolific offenders where they belong - in prison.

Crime and policing minister Dame Diana Johnson said: In the next decade, this government plans to halve violence against women and girls and knife crime, and restore public confidence in policing and the criminal justice system, as part of the Safer Streets Mission.

Through the Plan for Change, we will also bring visible policing back to communities, with 13,000 extra neighbourhood police officers, PCSOs and specials.

Alongside this, the government will build 14,000 more prison places by 2031 to lock up dangerous offenders.
Billionaire mining magnate Gina Rinehart blasted Midnight Oil frontman Peter Garrett for urging fans to 'dance on her grave', warning 'the attention-seeking activist' was only 'trashing' his own reputation with disrespectful comments.

The 71-year-old rock star and former federal Environment Minister made the comments while performing with his other band The Alter Egos at Perth Festival last Friday.

Mr Garrett invited concertgoers to 'pretend theyre dancing on Gina Rineharts grave', while also criticising Donald Trump and gas giant Woodside.

WA Premier Roger Cook weighed in on Monday, slamming his comments as 'completely inappropriate'.

'The arts are also there to challenge us and perhaps Peter Garrett thought that he was challenging the people of WA when he made his inappropriate comments,' Mr Cook said.

'He wasnt, quite frankly  he was being disrespectful and sowing the sort of seeds of hatred that we do see around the place, so hes got to stop.'

A spokesperson for Mrs Rinehart's company, Hancock Prospecting, echoed the Premier's comments.

'The attention-seeking activist tried to trash Mrs Rinehart in front of thousands of people, but instead he ended up trashing himself and others who think, as Premier Cook has said, "sowing the seeds of hatred" is ok in the name of "art",' the spokesperson said.

Peter Garrett (pictured), 71, invited the concertgoers to 'pretend theyre dancing on Gina Rineharts grave', while also criticising Donald Trump and gas giant Woodside

WA Premier Roger Cook weighed in on Monday, slamming his comments as 'completely inappropriate' (pictured: Mrs Rinehart)

'That being the Perth Festival spokespeople and those mainly government organisations that sponsor it.

'Plus, a corporate misusing its shareholders money for this, and earlier divisive woke causes.'

Perth Festival, which is supported by the University of WA, Wesfarmers and other major corporations, defended free artistic expression, noting that 'views shared by artists are their own'.

'Perth Festival recognises that people will have many different perspectives, experiences and opinions that reflect the complexity and rich diversity of our community,' the spokesperson added.

Mr Garrett is no stranger to controversy.

The former Labor minister described One Nation leader Pauline Hanson's views as 'totally objectionable, morally repugnant and dumb' in 2017.

He shared a picture of Friday's performance whereby he sought to hammer home his point about the environment.

'Big thanks to all who came out in Perth last night,' it was captioned.

Mr Garrett shared a picture of Friday's performance whereby he sought to hammer home his point about the environment. The comments below the social media post were scathing

'Great - albeit ironic, to play at the old power station. With WA oceans boiling, Woodside planet wreckers T-shirt was put to good use!'

The comments below the social media post were scathing.

'Biggest let down in Australian political history - done nothing,' one wrote.

Another said everyday Aussies were 'fed up with those who feel entitled and privilegedartists, elites, and city dwellers in the eastern statespreaching to the rest of the country'.

'Like we saw in the Voice referendum, the "quiet Australians" may not always be loud, but they wield real power when it counts,' they added.

A third fumed: 'Wont be listening to any more oils after his pathetic rant. Grow up.'

Another added: 'The old adage "its better to remain silent and appear a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt" should be applied to all artists when they choose to inflict their politics on the public.'
The lavish scale of the Commons Speakers globe-trotting is today laid bare, with thousands of pounds splashed on first class flights, limousine firms and five-star resorts.

A list of Sir Lindsay Hoyles expenses reveals he blew more than 180,000 of taxpayers cash on flights in two years.

It shows he never travels in economy, opting for first or business class seats  even for short-haul trips to Dublin and Italy.

He also chartered a private plane during a jaunt to the paradise Caribbean island of Montserrat, a British Overseas Territory.

The MP for Chorley has shelled out thousands of pounds to stay at luxurious resorts and hotels around the globe, including The St Regis in Doha, Westin Grand in the Cayman Islands and Ritz-Carlton in Los Angeles. The hotels and resorts Sir Lindsay stayed in were up to 900 a night.

The list, obtained exclusively by the Daily Mail, shows that during the LA trip in February 2023 he lavished more than 3,000 on chauffeur-driven cars.

Despite this, he also racked up a bill of 270 with local taxi app Lyft.

He also splashed more than 4,500 on chauffeur-driven vehicles during a trip to Canberra, Australia a month earlier.

Sir Lindsay Hoyles (pictured) blew more than 180,000 of taxpayers cash on flights in two years

The MP for Chorley has shelled out thousands of pounds to stay at luxurious resorts and hotels around the globe, including The St Regis in Doha

Sir Lindsay's five-day trip to the Cayman Islands last summer was among the more eye-catching, totalling 22,785. Pictured: Swimming in the Pool at the Westin Grand in the Cayman Islands

One subsistence bill at The St Regis in Doha totalled more than 800.

He also racked up a 400 meal and drinks bill at the five-star Hotel Due Torri in Verona, Italy. His room at the Hotel Due Torri for the G7 Speakers Conference in September last year was 630 a night.

In December, the Mail revealed Sir Lindsay has billed taxpayers more than 250,000 for trips in just two years.

He has splashed the sum on 19 foreign jaunts since October 2022, making him the most well-travelled Commons Speaker in history.

John Bercow, his predecessor, took ten years to rack up the same bill for non- regular foreign travel.

It led to him being branded long-haul Hoyle and sparked accusations that he had been swanning around like hes the Foreign Secretary.

But the list, obtained via Freedom of Information requests, breaks down the extravagant sums.

His five-day trip to the Cayman Islands last summer was among the more eye-catching, totalling 22,785.

This included 15,806 on business class flights with British Airways for him and two staff.

The list, obtained via Freedom of Information requests, breaks down the extravagant sums

Sir Lindsay has billed taxpayers more than 250,000 for jetting around the globe in just two years

He splashed the sum on 19 foreign jaunts since October 2022, making him the most well-travelled Commons Speaker in history. Pictured: The Rock Hotel in Gibraltar

John Bercow (pictured), his predecessor, took ten years to rack up the same bill for non- regular foreign travel

The journey was made for meetings with his counterpart there. They stayed at the luxurious Westin Grand Cayman, which has sweeping views over the Caribbean Sea. The accommodation bill totalled 6,400 while his room was 679 a night.

And during a trip to Ottawa to meet his Canadian counterpart, he stayed at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier hotel at a cost of 893 a night.

Accommodation totalled 8,656.65 for the trip, with 15,000 spent on BA and Air Canada business class flights for him and two staff.

He also stayed at the Hotel Realm, which describes itself as Canberras finest five-star luxury hotel.

John OConnell, of the TaxPayers Alliance, said: Sir Lindsays life of luxury is looking increasingly unsustainable, given the stratospheric credit card bills hes tapping up taxpayers for... Its possible to travel in comfort at a much lower cost than this.

A spokesman for the Speaker said: The Speaker is an ambassador for the House of Commons and has a responsibility to explain and promote the work of the House, and to represent it at high-profile state events and inter-Parliamentary conferences.
To coin a phrase from Mark Twain, the reported death of Austin's property market has been greatly exaggerated.

At least, that's the message from Mark North Jauregui, of NorthMax Realty, and other brokers in Austin, who say home values have certainly adjusted downward but are not in free fall.

Now may even be a good time to buy in Austin, they say, because sellers are cutting prices and buyers can get a bargain and make gains later from an expected market recovery.

'I think that right now is there's a lot of opportunity for buyers that have been waiting to scoop up a deal,' Jauregui told DailyMail.com.

Luxury homes in the sun-soaked central Texas boomtown are not selling for as much as they did at the peak of the market in the pandemic, when buyers flocked to the low-tax Lone Star state.

Austin's median home price peaked in May 2022 at $667,000, when the city saw an influx of people lured by relatively affordable housing and a competitive job market.

They also sought lower state income taxes, warm weather, and Austin's relaxed and buzzy atmosphere.

The city quickly went from being a melting pot of crunchy artists and musicians to a gentrified tech industry hub, complete with high-rises, snarling traffic and skyrocketing property prices.

Brokers say it could be a good time to snap up a bargain in Austin, Texas, before the market gathers steam again

After the pandemic, inbound migration to Texas dropped, as the property bargains dried up and people got back to their pre-pandemic routines, causing the market to soften, according to data from property site Redfin.

In January, the average home was changing hands for 3 percent less than the previous year, at $515,000.

When the market was red-hot, construction firms got in on the action and started adding new homes throughout the city and into expanded suburbs.

Many of those properties are coming on to the market now, helping to keep prices lower.

There are other signs of a cooling market in Austin, with homes lingering on listings sites for about 100 days and more than a quarter of them falling in value over the course of a year, says Redfin.

Buyers should shop around, scouring listings sites for properties that have been advertised for more than six months, and then negotiate hard with the seller, experts said.

Another tactic can be to cut a deal with a construction firm on a newly-built property, as they may have a lot of inventory to shift.

'Our market has historically been very stable and upward trending,' said Jauregui.

'The market has been slow, but these reductions in prices we've seen are starting to bring buyers back in off the sidelines, and I think we're going to start seeing a fast acceleration in the market.'

Jauregui says that all the elements that made Austin famous  the music, restaurants, and culture  are still available in abundance, making it 'a great place to live with a lot to offer.'

DailyMail.com shows what luxury bargains Austin has to offer right now.

THE GREAT AUSTIN PROPERTY SALE

BARTON HILLS: $1.3m OFF

This stunning modern five-bedroom home of showpiece architecture is in the plush Barton Hills neighborhood, only a short drive from downtown Austin.

The 4,700 sq ft property is centered around a courtyard-style pool, which can be seen from all sides through the property's expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.

It also boasts vaulted ceilings, a curved Venetian plaster fireplace, and a chef's kitchen complete with marble countertops.

It was on the market for $5.5 million but has been reduced to $4.2 million.

WESTLAKE: $220,000 OFF

This elegant 26-year-old home is in a cul-de-sac in the Westlake area, a short drive west from downtown Austin.

This Mediterranean-style, five-bedroom property features five full bathrooms.

Added extras include a pool with a swim-up bar, walking trails along a creek, a sport court, a putting green and a cute single-story guest cottage.

It was on the market for $8 million but has been trimmed back to $7.75 million.

CAT MOUNTAIN VILLAS: $505,000 OFF

A short drive west out of downtown Austin, this four-bedroom home in Cat Mountain Villas can also be bagged at a bargain price.

It features an eye-catching marble entranceway with a 10-foot chandelier, herringbone oak floors, an open kitchen with a large island, a bar, a Turkish marble pool deck, pool, jacuzzi, and fire pit.

It may have been hanging around on listings sites for almost a year because of its proximity to a main road.

It went on the market for $2.5 million, but has been reduced to $1.95 million.

THE HILLS OF LOST CREEK: $15,000 OFF

This landscaped, one-story four-bedroom home is to the west of Austin, close to the Westlake Country Club and the Lost Creek Park.

The four-bedroom, two bathroom property was built in 1978, but has been updated with a modern kitchen and bathrooms and other upgrades.

It features a metal roof, slurry exterior, cedar beams, waterfall quartz island, and white oak floors.

The 2,500sq ft home was on the market for $1.6 million but has been reduced to $1.45 million.

THE RIDGE AT LOST CREEK: $485,000 OFF

The seller is motivated to part with this elegant, newly-built, five-bedroom, six bathroom home in the Lost Creek area to the west of Austin.

The 4,900sq ft home comes with high-end finishes, a secluded pool, mature trees, and a great layout.

It's currently on the market for $3.2 million, following a recent $150,000 price drop.

But as recently as last year, it was listed at $3.7 million, making it even more of a bargain. The agent calls it a 'rare find at this value.'

HUDSON BEND: $220,000 OFF

This eye-catching, four-bedroom, five-bathroom home is about one hour's drive northwest of downtown Austin, and close to a yacht club on the Colorado River.

The 3,300sq ft property wraps around a pool and has an outdoor living area under a covered porch.

The interior features an office or game room and a flex room, and a kitchen with an island, pantry, and granite counters.

It was on the market for $1.37 million but has been trimmed to $1.15 million.

WEST RIM: $320,000 OFF

This grand four-bedroom, five-bathroom home sits in a quiet cul-de-sac in a gated community about a 30-minute drive out of downtown Austin.

The two-story, 4,000sq ft property was built in 1999, and features a stone floor, spacious bedrooms, a game room, and an outdoor living area that's shaded by towering mature oak trees.

It was listed in January for $2.75 million but has recently been cut back to $2.43 million.

KENSINGTON PARK: $100,000 OFF

Tucked away in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood in southeast Austin, this four-bedroom, three-bathroom home sits on nearly an acre of land.

The unusual plot features mature trees, a maze, a swimming pool, a gazebo, a fountain, ample storage spaces, and even a spring-fed pond.

Buyers are asked to imagine what they can do with the nearly 60-year-old property with a renovation team.

It went on the market in January for $1.1 million but has since come down to $1 million.
A Florida town has left its residents in a state of panic after raising its Homeowner's Association (HOA) fees to more than than $3,300.

Winter Park Woods, just a 20 minute drive from Orlando, has tripled its monthly fees, WESH reported.

One resident, Lorraine Roy, who has lived in the community for three decades, has had the monthly fee for her three-bedroom condo raised to $3,371.79.

'This is way too high,' she told the publication.

'And I love this location, which is why I stayed here all this time, through the ups and downs.'

Roy is fending off offers to sell her condo for now, but has conceded it may have to happen in the future.

The Winter Park Woods Condominiums Association told residents they were hiking fees because it owes Orange County millions for code violations, WESH reported.

The rises are also to cover increased insurance costs and to meet the obligations set out in new legislation following the Surfside condo collapse in South Florida that killed 98 people in June 2021.

Winter Park Woods, just a twenty minute drive from Orlando, has tripled its monthly fees

The new law now requires structural inspections for condos more than 30 years old and additional money to be set aside for repairs, leading to an increase in required payments.

More frequent natural disasters in the state, such as hurricanes and flooding, have driven up insurance costs and led homeowners associations to raise fees in anticipation of repairs and mitigation needs.

'We underfunded the reserves, that has been happening,' Roy admitted.

Another Winter Park Woods resident, Shane Costa, said his fee was hiked from $634 to more than $2,100 a month.

Costa decided to sell but received an insultingly low offer of $70,000 from an investor who has purchased other condos in the complex.

'The simple truth is developers are going to come in and redevelop these properties,' Florida Policy Project Founder & President Jeff Brandes told WESH.

'I'm in a little bit better circumstance than most people right now, but there's people losing their homes,' Costa told the publication.

'There are people who live here no more, and they just they just couldn't withstand the pressure and had to sell out for a much lower price than they feel was fair,' another resident Steve Fieldman agreed.

'HOAs are getting tough all across the country lately, but especially in Florida,' senior economist at Realtor.com Joel Berner told DailyMail.com.

Lorraine Roy has lived in the community for three decades but may be forced to sell

Winter Park Woods resident, Shane Costa, said his fee was hiked from $634 to more than $2,100 a month

The Surfside condo collapse in June 2021 killed 98 people

'It's unfortunate that this HOA appears to have been a little bit short sighted in not putting enough money away before and having to rely on extreme HOA fees from their owners to get there balance up.'

Berner noted that the environmental and legal risk factors specific to Florida must be taken in to account but that the figures in Winter Park Woods were still 'wild.'

'Like we saw with the Sunrise condo collapse, this is an area of responsibility for the homeowners association to provide environmental insurance and maintenance capabilities for the risks.

'But this sounds like a specifically unfortunate financial situation for those folks to be in,' he added.

Rising HOA fees and insurance costs has caused a mass sell-off of condos in the state, putting downward pressure on prices.

The number of unsold homes in the Sunshine State rose almost 23 percent year-over-year in January, according to new data from Redfin.

There were 172,209 homes for sale in Florida at the end of January, the highest inventory of any month on record.

Many people now face fees greater than their mortgage payments, sparking a wave of distressed sales in the Sunshine State.

Sellers have slashed prices by up to 40 percent with some units wiping almost half a million off their asking price.
Wealthy Pacific Palisades residents are outraged over plans for affordable housing units in the elite neighborhood as they rebuild from the devastating LA fires.

The Palisades fire - one of three infernos that ripped through California in January - burned 23,707 acres, destroyed 6,837 structures and killed 12 people in the ritzy enclave.

Among the destruction were 79 single-family homes valued at more than $10 million in the Palisades, where the median value was $3.7 million, according to The Los Angeles Times.

Meanwhile, Housing Department records showed that 770 rent-controlled units in the area were also lost in the fire.

Justin Kohanoff, the owner of a burned Shell gas station, told the LA Times he is planning to turn the lot into an apartment building that includes units for low-income residents.

'It's gonna be beautiful. I can't wait until it breaks ground and comes to fruition,' Kohanoff said.

'We have time on our hands so we can deal with the city and fight with them to build what we want to build. We know they're not going to give it to us on a silver platter.'

However, wealthy locals have expressed outrage over plans to add low-income housing, claiming it will take priority over rebuilding their multi-million dollar homes and push them out of the neighborhood.

Wealthy Pacific Palisades residents are outraged over plans for affordable housing units in the elite neighborhood

Housing Department records showed that 770 rent-controlled units in the area were also lost in the fire

Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of data-mining company Palantir and member of wildfire foundation Steadfast LA, ridiculed the idea of rebuilding with affordable housing in the Palisades on social media.

'Sorry guys, no rebuilding your fancy houses that burned down by the ocean in LA until there's a new crack den installed right in the middle of the neighborhood,' Lonsdale said on X.

Billionaire developer Rick Caruso, who started Steadfast LA, said that while her supports affordable housing, the push to expand it in the Palisades is coming from 'external interests' and would be detrimental to reconstruction efforts.

'Let's not have social policies slowing down or impacting the ability for people to bring back the community that they've lost,' he said.

Jason Finger, 52, a founder of the delivery app Seamless, sent a message to one of the neighborhood WhatsApp groups claiming that low-income housing mandates would destroy property values and suggested they use drones to track unfamiliar cars that enter the neighborhood, reported the LA Times.

'This isn't just about rebuilding homes; it's about creating the community of the future, from scratch,' he wrote, adding later, 'People move here for space, nature, the community, security  not urban density. This should be a model of sustainable, high-end, fireproof residential living, not a policy sandbox.'

Executive orders signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom to expedite the rebuilding process and affordable housing incentives fueled conspiracy theories that he was using the disaster to rezone the Palisades from single-family homes to apartments.

Social media posts claiming, 'Newsom is allegedly working with developers to convert zoning in Pacific Palisades from R1 (single family) to R3 (apartments),' circulated online during the fires - which the governor vehemently denied.

'The claim is false, period. The governor is not working with developers to convert zoning in Pacific Palisades from single-family to apartments,' his spokesperson said.

Newsom has asked Congress for nearly $40 billion to help Los Angeles and its surrounding areas recover from the deadly wildfires.

The fires, which burned for weeks as firefighters worked to get them under control, killed at least 29 people, destroyed more than 16,000 structures and torched over 57,000 acres of land in the Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Pasadena and Altadena.

Wealthy locals are afraid adding affordable housing will take priority over rebuilding their multi-million dollar homes

Governor Gavin Newsom has asked Congress for nearly $40 billion to help Los Angeles and its surrounding areas recover from the deadly wildfires

The total economic loss from the fires is estimated to be $250 billion, which includes factors such as anticipated cleanup costs, housing displacement and businesses shutting down.

Real estate losses from the Palisades and the Eaton fires are predicted to surpass $30 billion, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Newsom's letter to lawmakers reveals how the $39.7 billion in aid he is requesting will be spent on rebuilding homes, infrastructure, businesses, schools, churches and healthcare facilities.

He is asking for $4.32 billion in recovery grants for local governments from the Economic Development Administration and $2 billion in low-income housing tax credits from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

However, LA Mayor Karen Bass' recovery czar, developer Steve Soboroff, said he's encouraging commercial property owners to restore their buildings as they were before to take advantage of streamlined permitting rules, but also to build in ways that allow mixed-use apartments later.

Soboroff told the LA Times the idea of blocking affordable housing in the Palisades is 'elitist.'

'In the deeds, it used to be, 'No Jews and No Blacks',' Soboroff said. 'What are they going to put in the deeds now, 'No Affordable Housing?' That stuff doesn't hold muster.'
This is the moment MailOnline tries the world's first cold-sensitive colour changing smartphone - by dipping it in water.

Created by Chinese smartphone maker Realme, the device morphs from white to a fetching marbled blue when the temperature drops below 61F (16C).

Available in India and Europe, the 379 5G-enabled device mimics 'the transformative hues of deep-sea creatures like jellyfish'.

At Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, MailOnline dips the water-proof handset in freezing cold water and witnesses it change within seconds.

The colder the temperature, the faster the phone will change - although the tech firm admits the effect wears off the more you use the phone.

The 'distinctive' back cover uses seashell powder to create a pearl texture for a 'truly unique and eye-catching visual experience', Realme says.

'This interactive feature captures the ocean's mystique and adds a delightful wow factor to the user experience,' said Chase Xu, CMO of Realme.

'Realme 14 Pro Series 5G brings the aesthetics and functionality of our smartphones to new heights.'

This is the moment MailOnline tries the world's first cold-sensitive colour changing smartphone at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Spain

Already on sale in India, the 379 device mimics 'the transformative hues of deep-sea creatures like jellyfish'

The phone, created in collaboration with Danish design studio Valeur Designers, has a normal 6.7-inch display on the front.

But the pearly white back - which is matt rather than shiny - shifts with changing temperatures in both air and water, a staff member tells me.

It's due to 'thermochromic' pigment - or colour-shifting pigments that respond to changes in temperature.

It has a IP69 water rating, which is the highest level of protection that smartphones can have from liquids - including high pressure water.

But aside from having any major real world uses, the company admits it is a fashion statement for its primarily youthful userbase in India.

Users can take their phone into the sea with them and show it off to their friends as it turns blue - but for 'no more than 30 minutes per session'.

Also, users must be limited to 0-2 metres (0-6.5 feet) if they are taking it underwater, so it is 'not designed for professional diving'.

'Water damage resulting from improper use is not covered by the warranty,' the phonemaker says, adding: 'The waterproofing performance of this device may degrade over time.'

At Realme's booth at MWC in Barcelona, a staff member tells me that the phone changes colour in both water and air

Realme presents the world-first Realme 14 Pro smartphone at Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain

The back panel has a distinctive, wavy design - which is also unique to each handset, like a fingerprint.

It surrounds a triple camera system, which comes with flash technology that 'automatically restores natural skin tones in low-light conditions'.

Unfortunately, Realme pulled out of the UK market last year and doesn't expect to ship the colour-changing phone to Britain.

MailOnline will have all the biggest tech news from MWC this week, the industry trade show held every year in Barcelona at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via, Spain.

The event's origin traces back to a business conference in Brussels in 1987 on cellular radio before evolving to focus on smartphones and the mobile industry.

Top exhibitors include Samsung, Huawei, Microsoft, IBM, Dell, Honor, HTC Vive, Xiaomi, Nokia, Lenovo, Sony, Qualcomm, ZTE and British smartphone maker Nothing.

Social media platforms including Meta, TikTok and Snapchat owner Snap Inc are also be in attendance, likely to make announcements in partnership with the phone makers.

Apple, on the other hand, does not attend MWC and instead prefers to take the whole limelight by running its own events for any announcements.

The phone is suspended in water-filled tanks at the Realme booth - but it is not just a prototype. This eye-catching device is already on sale

The 'distinctive' back cover uses seashell powder to create a pearl texture for a 'truly unique and eye-catching visual experience', it says

The theme for this year is 'Converge. Connect. Create', suggesting phone networks will be as much a focus as the hardware.

It's expected that 6G  the sixth generation of cellular technology and successor to 5G  will feature prominently.

6G is the best part of a decade away away from becoming available, with 5G still in the process of being rolled out in the UK.

But once 6G arrives it'll provide a 'truly omnipresent wireless intelligence' for smartphone owners when they're using their data.
Scientists have warned that Earth's strongest ocean current is slowing down due to climate change, with potentially disastrous consequences.

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) transports about 173 million cubic metres of water every second in an unbroken ring around the entire Antarctic continent.

However, new research shows that the ACC could become 20 per cent slower by 2050 thanks to human-caused climate change.

If that were to happen, it could lead to a 'vicious cycle' of rapidly melting ice, rising sea levels, and spiralling global temperatures.

More than four times stronger than the Gulf Stream, the ACC is a key part of the 'ocean conveyor belt' that pushes water, heat, and nutrients around the planet.

But as fresh water from melting sea ice is dumped into some areas of the Antarctic, the processes driving that conveyor belt will start to weaken.

Lead researcher Dr Bishakhdatta Gayen, associate professor at the University of Melbourne, says: 'The ocean is extremely complex and finely balanced.

'If this current "engine" breaks down, there could be severe consequences, including more climate variability, with greater extremes in certain regions, and accelerated global warming due to a reduction in the oceans capacity to act as a carbon sink.'

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC), highlighted here in green, is the world's most powerful ocean current but new research suggests that it could be slowing down due to climate change

The ACC transports about 173 million cubic metres of water every second in an unbroken ring around the entire Antarctic continent. It is a key part of the world's 'ocean conveyor belt' which is critical to the climate

Much like its more famous northern cousin, the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), the ACC is driven by cold, salty water.

As ice forms in the ocean, the water which is left behind becomes extremely salty and cold, and so becomes exceptionally dense.

That cold, dense water sinks quickly into the deepest 'abyssal' zones of the ocean and sweeps northwards, carrying oxygen and CO2 and churning up the nutrient-rich sediments at the ocean floor.

The water is then pulled to the surface through a process called upwelling in areas such as the Southern Ocean south of Australia, bringing nutrients to the surface and driving the cycle of the ocean current.

However, as the climate warms, the ice surrounding Antarctica is melting at an ever-faster rate.

Recent research has shown that sea ice around the southern continent plunged to a record low last year.

According to data gathered by the US National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC), the Antarctic sea ice extent was 801,548 square miles (2.07 million square km) as of February 15, 2025.

This is more than 200,000 square miles below the February 15 average for the historical reference period between 1981 and 2010 - 1.13 million square miles (2.932 million square km).

Sea ice in Antactica, such as this iceberg off the coast of Dismal Island, melts from the bottom up when exposed to warmer water. As the icemelt releases fresh water, this makes the surrounding water lighter and slows the processes which drive the ACC

What would happen if the Antarctic Circumpolar Current collapsed? Rising sea levels The ACC prevents heat from reaching the Antarctic from the north.

Its collapse would mean more sea ice melting which contributes to rising sea levels. Increased extreme weather The ACC moderates global temperatures and weather patterns.

Its collapse would accelerate the changes in extreme weather such as flooding, storms, and droughts.

The collapse would also prevent the ACC from absorbing more heat from the atmosphere, amplifying the damage of global heating. Ecosystem damage Without the ACC, invasive species would be free to cross into Antarctica.

This could threaten the fragile ecosystems of the Antarctic continent which support animals such as whales and penguins. Advertisement

Dr Gayen says: 'The melting ice sheets dump vast quantities of fresh water into the salty ocean.

'This sudden change in ocean "salinity" has a series of consequences  including the weakening of the sinking of surface ocean water to the deep, called the Antarctic Bottom Water, and, based on this study, a weakening of the strong ocean jet that surrounds Antarctica.'

Using Australia's most powerful supercomputer, Dr Gayen and his colleagues modelled how this process would affect the ACC in a 'high-emissions' scenario - one in which greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise.

The simulations showed that ice melting alone would cause a 20 per cent slowdown in the ACC by 2050.

Although they do not model the climate impacts of this change in their paper, current research suggests that such a slowdown would have a widespread impact on the climate.

This is because the ACC acts as a physical and oceanographic barrier, protecting the Southern Ocean from the rest of the world.

Co-author Dr Taimoor Sohail, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Melbourne, told MailOnline: 'One way that the ACC is important in regulating our climate is that it controls how much heat gets onto Antarctica and onto the Antarctic Ice Shelf.

'So, a slowdown in the ACC could allow more heat to transfer south from the warmer North, and that would enable ice melting to accelerate.'

Under a high emissions scenario, the researchers found that the surface water may slightly faster but ther deep water sections where most of the current is driven would slow (illustrated in orange arrows). Overall the ACC would slow by 20 per cent by 2050

These graphs show modelling show the flow of the ACC using just temperatre and wind changes (red) and including meltwater (blue). This shows that the changes to the ACC are almost entirely due to meltwater

Dr Sohail explains that this creates a 'vicious cycle' in which ice melt weakens the ACC which, in turn, allows ice to melt faster and further weaken the protective currents.

The Antarctic Ice Sheet holds around 90 per cent of all the fresh water on Earth and has the potential to cause massive increases in sea levels should it melt.

While this paper does not suggest that the Antarctic Ice Sheet will vanish anytime soon, even modest accelerations in sea level rises could be catastrophic for the 230 million people who live within three feet of the high tide line today.

This vicious cycle would only be worsened by a reduction in the ACC's ability to moderate CO2 and heat levels in the atmosphere.

In some parts of the ocean surface waters which are in contact with the atmosphere warm up and absorb CO2 before being pulled rapidly down into the deep ocean in a 'ventilation process'.

The resulting 'Antarctic bottom water' traps a huge amount of the world's CO2 and heat.

However, research suggests that the processes which pull surface water down to the depths are controlled by the strength of the ACC.

The atmosphere currently absorbs more than 90 per cent of the heat trapped in the climate system but, were the ACC to weaken, that process might falter, leading to faster warming.

The ACC acts as a critical barrier protecting the Antarctic from surrounding oceans. If it slows it would mean that sea ice melts faster, sea levels rise, and changes to extreme weather patterns accelerates. It would also allow more invasive species to reach Antartica, threatening the fragile ecoystems which support wildlife like Antarctic penguins (pictured)

A slowing of the ACC would also accelerate changes to the water cycle, leading to more extreme weather all around the globe.

Additionally, the slowing of the ACC would be a disaster for Antarctica's already fragile ecosystem.

The rapidly circulating current acts as a barrier which prevents invasive species from crossing onto the continent, particularly drifting rafts of southern bull kelp which ride on ocean currents.

Dr Sohail says: 'A slowdown in the ACC would allow the creatures that live on those rafts to get onto the continent at greater frequency and in concentrated regions.

'So, it prevents a threat to all the ecosystems and food webs on the Antarctic continent.'

According to their paper, published in the journal Environmental Research Letters, the only way to prevent these changes is to stop the rapid melting of Antarctic sea ice.

Dr Sohail concludes: 'The key point of this study is that there is a clear link between ice melting and a slowdown of the ACC.

'So, if we can try to reduce how much ice melting happens, through climate mitigation, then there's a good chance these projections might not actually be borne out.'
In January, devastating wildfires swept across Los Angeles, killing at least 28 people and destroying more than 10,000 homes.

Now, a study has warned that this could be a taste of things to come.

Scientists from the University of Science and Technology of China say that the frequency of fires in cities is set to skyrocket, thanks to climate change.

In the study, the team predicted the number of urban fires that could happen in 2,847 cities across 20 countries over the next 75 years.

And if greenhouse gas emissions continue to climb, their projections suggest that there could be devastating consequences.

Under a high emissions scenario, the scientists predict there could be a 22.2 per cent increase in outdoor fires in cities around the world by 2100.

Terrifyingly, this would lead to 335,000 fire-related deaths, and 1.1 million fire-related injuries, they say.

'We find that global warming could lead to an unexpectedly high volume of fire casualties,' the researchers wrote in their study.

In January, devastating wildfires swept across Los Angeles (pictured in Palisades on January 8), killing at least 28 people and destroying more than 10,000 homes. Now, a study has warned that this could be a taste of things to come

Under a high emissions scenario, the scientists predict there could be a 22.2 per cent increase in outdoor fires in cities around the world by 2100

Each year, fires cause an estimated 50,000 deaths and 170,000 injuries around the world.

In their new study, the team set out to understand how these figures could change amid rising global temperatures.

Writing in their study, published in Nature Cities, the researchers, led by Long Shi, explained: 'The current impact analyses have concentrated on vegetation fires rather than urban fires, even though they typically cause more direct fire casualties.

'The trends in urban fire frequency due to global warming remain unknown.'

Firstly, the team established a global database of fire incidents for 2011-2020 using data from urban fire departments in 2,847 cities across 20 countries.

The fires were split into three categories  building fires, vehicle fires, and outdoor fires.

Next, the researchers assessed the likely impact of global warming on the frequency of each fire type.

Their analysis suggests that, under a high emissions scenario, there could be an 11.6 per cent increase in vehicle fires, a 22.2 per cent increase in outdoor fires, and a 4.6 decrease in building fires by 2100.

Their analysis suggests that, under a high emissions scenario, there could be an 11.6 per cent increase in vehicle fires, a 22.2 per cent increase in outdoor fires, and a 4.6 decrease in building fires by 2100. Pictured: an aerial view shows homes burned in the Eaton Fire on February 5

Unfortunately for Britons, the results show that the UK would be one of the worst affected countries.

'The situation for some countries, such as New Zealand and the UK, is considerably worse, showing over 40% increase,' the researchers said.

Under the high-emissions scenario, building fires in Britain could surge by around 10 per cent, vehicle fires by almost 15 per cent, and outdoor fires by more than 20 per cent.

Based on these findings, the researchers also estimated the total number of fire-related deaths and injuries.

'We find that global warming could lead to an unexpectedly high volume of fire casualties,' they warned.

Based on the 20 analysed countries, the team estimate that global warming could directly lead to 335,000 fire-related deaths, and 1,153,000 fire injuries worldwide during 2020-2100.

The researchers hope the findings will help to shape climate mitigation strategies around the world.

'This study can serve as a starting point for developing climate-resilient strategies, such as updating fire standards, mitigating human impacts, ameliorating fuel management and enhancing vehicles' reliability,' they added.
SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk has revealed the 'political reasons' which he says drove the Biden administration to 'abandon' two NASA astronauts in space.

During a Friday appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast, the Joe Rogan Experience, Musk said Biden rejected his offer to bring Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore home early because it would've made Donald Trump 'look good.'

Musk backed Trump during the 2024 campaign and appeared at several MAGA rallies.

The tech CEO explained to Rogan that the Biden administration did not want to jeopardize Kamala Harris' presidential campaign and intentionally 'pushed the return date past the inauguration date.'

'There's no way that they're gonna make anyone who's supporting Trump look good,' he said.

Musk's remarks shocked Rogan. 'That's so crazy... It's just disgusting that they would use that as a political tool,' he said.

Musk also noted that the Biden administration was suing SpaceX at the time.

'So people say, like, 'Oh, Elon's making it up. The Biden administration wasn't against SpaceX,' he said.

'I'm like, bro, the Department of Justice had a massive lawsuit against SpaceX for not hiring asylum seekers, even though it is illegal for us to hire anyone who is not a permanent resident.'

During a Friday appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast, Elon Musk said the Biden administration rejected his offer to bring Sunita Williams and Barry Wilmore home early because they did not want to 'make anyone who's supporting Trump look good'

The DOJ filed that lawsuit in August 2023, alleging that SpaceX was 'discriminating against asylees and refugees in hiring.'

But less than two weeks ago, the DOJ dismissed the case, though the motion did not say why.

Musk told Rogan that although US law prohibits hiring discrimination against asylum seekers, it also prohibits SpaceX from hiring non-permanent US residents because rocket companies are technically advanced weapons companies.

International Traffic in Arms Regulations require advanced weapons companies to only hire permanent residents, a.k.a. people with citizenship or green cards, Musk said.

'An asylum seeker is not a permanent resident. So it is both legal and illegal to hire asylum seekers,' he told Rogan.

'Why would [the Biden administration] launch such a massive lawsuit against SpaceX? They're extremely antagonistic.'

These statements come just weeks after the joint Fox News Interview with Trump, when Musk first alleged that politics influenced NASA's decision to delay Williams and Wilmore's return.

Williams and Wilmore were only supposed to spend eight days on the International Space Station (ISS) when they arrived on June 6.

But technical issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft prompted NASA to significantly delay their flight home, as the faulty spaceship could not guarantee their safe return.

Joe Rogan was shocked by Musk's claims: 'That's so crazy'

When asked about Musk's remarks during a recent Good Morning America interview, NASA astronaut Barry Wilmore said: 'Political reasons  I have not heard that. I'm not sure that that could be the case based on what I know'

When the agency officially announced its decision last August, then-NASA administrator Bill Nelson said: 'I can tell you unequivocally, from a personal standpoint, that politics has not played any part in this decision.

'It absolutely has nothing to do with it.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to NASA for comment on Musk's latest claims.

Williams and Wilmore weighed in on the matter during a recent interview with Good Morning America.

When asked about Musk's remarks, Wilmore said: 'Political reasons  I have not heard that. I'm not sure that that could be the case based on what I know.'

He also explained that he and Williams do not view themselves as 'stranded,' saying: 'That's not how we feel.'

The Starliner crew is now due back around March 19 or 20, when they will hitch a ride home on the SpaceX Crew-9 return flight.

By then, they will have spent more than nine months in space.

Musk told Rogan that only a SpaceX spacecraft can bring the astronauts back to Earth.

'There isn't anyone else who can do it,' he said. 'The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft is the only one that is considered safe enough to bring them back.'
Firefighters are battling more than 175 wildfires in North and South Carolina that erupted over the weekend due to gusty winds and dry conditions.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday, ordering some residents to evacuate.

'This state of emergency ensures that our first responders, working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need,' said McMaster.

On Saturday, the largest wildfire sparked in Carolina Forest, west of Myrtle Beach, sending locals running for their lives.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated Sunday evening that the blaze had burned 2.5 square miles, with 30 percent contained. Some residents have since been allowed to return home.

North Carolina is experiencing at least five active fires as of Sunday, with the largest burning about 50 miles east of Charlotte.

The small southwestern town of Tryon in Polk County urged some residents to evacuate Saturday as a fire spread rapidly through

'Unseasonably warm weather and low humidity have heightened fire risks. Careless debris burning remains the leading cause,' fire officials said in a statement.

More than 175 wildfires erupted in South Carolina over the weekend. Fire officials said the number has been cut to about 163 as of Monday

Many neighborhoods were ordered to evacuate over the weekend as the fire spread

Weather Channel meteorologist Robb Ellis said: 'Wildfires are not only common in parts of the Carolinas, but are part of the natural ecosystem of the area, especially in the Sandhills and Coastal Plain.

'Pine forests regularly rely on wildfire for the release of seeds from pine cones and to clear vegetation for new growth.'

Officials said there were more than 175 fires that broke out on Saturday, but firefighters were able to cut the number down to 163 as of Monday morning.

Russell Hubright, the South Carolina Forestry Commission Chief, described the flames as 'very erratic.'

'You saw that the flames are low and all of a sudden they jumped up right? So wind changes can do that in this kind of a fuel type as we call it, so it can be a little scary,' he told NBC's 'TODAY' Monday morning.

Blackhawk helicopters were flown in over South Carolina, dumping 600 gallons of water at a town over the fires.

'The top of the trees really lit up with the big fire and black smoke was just pouring right on top of everything,' Dennis Sprecher, who lives in the Walkers Woods community, near the Carolina Forest, told NBC affiliate WMBF of Myrtle Beach on Sunday.

'You just see the raging fire heading towards the houses and everything. I didn't realize how bad the fire was. You just hear like a tornado going out in the middle of the trees,' he added.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated Sunday evening that the blaze had burned 2.5 square miles, with 30 percent contained

Locals were forced to flee their homes over the weekend. Some have returned, but others are waiting for an official word

Myrtle beach, which is home to nearly 40,000 people, has not experienced any damages from the largest fire, but the blaze has burned more than 1,600 acres of land.

McMasters office said in a statement Sunday that it expects a loss of 4,200 acres across the state due to the other fires ripping through Spartanburg, Union, Oconee and Pickens counties.

Another fire broke out near Six Mile, located about 30 miles west of Greenville, where residents have been urged to evacuate. An official order has not yet been issued.

While North Carolina only has a handful of fires, officials said the largest is at Uwharrie National Forest that has been plagued by dry conditions in recent months.

Firefighters have been battling fires in both states since Saturday. South Carolina has issued a state of

Officials said the first were sparked by unusually dry conditions and gusty winds

This 'Melrose Fire' has burned more than 480 acres so far.

Polk County Emergency Management said: 'As of right now, evacuations are still voluntary for those in the affected areas of this fire.'

Saluda Fire & Rescue posted on Facebook that it believes a downed powerline sparked the blaze.

The Forest Service said Sunday afternoon that it had made progress on the fire, reaching about one-third containment.

Another fire in the Blue Ridge Mountains has burned more than 400 acres. Residents in Tryon and Saluda, home to more than 2,000 total, were told to evacuate Sunday and are set to here if order will be lifted today.

The US Forest Service said it was responding to wildfires in all in North Carolina.
A former CIA 'spy' has broken his silence about his experience as a 'remote viewer,' claiming he uncovered there was once life on Mars.

The CIA conducted experiments in the 1980s with Joe McMoneagle and other individuals who claimed they could perceive information about distant objects, events or other people using their minds.

McMoneagle, the CIAs Remote Viewer No. 1, spoke on the American Alchemy podcast Friday, detailing how he was given coordinates and asked to describe what he saw at the location.

He said he spotted a giant pyramid, larger than Egypt's Great Pyramid of Giza, which had 'monster rooms inside.'

'I started getting an image of human beings that were trapped in a place where the atmosphere was turning bad,' said McMoneagle. 'It [was] obvious these people were dying for some reason, but they were humans. They were just twice our size.'

An instructor handed him a white card with the target on it, showing: 'Mars 1,000,000 BC.'

McMoneagle later stormed into NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to obtain negative images of the targets he was asked to remote view, finding photographs of bones and buildings on the Martian landscape.

He theorized a 'big object passed through our solar system' that stripped the atmosphere from Mars, causing the extinction of life on the Red Planet.

The CIA conducted experiments with people who had the ability to perceive information about distant objects, events or other people using their minds. One experiment in the 1980s, sent a subject to Mars

Joe McMoneagle, the CIAs Remote Viewer No. 1, spoke on the American Alchemy podcast Friday, detailing how he was given coordinates and asked to describe what he saw at the location. He was later shown the target on a card that read: 'Mars 1,000,000 BC'

McMoneagle is a retired US Army Chief Warrant Officer turned CIA psychic. He and five other remote viewers saved 52 Americans seized in November 1979 in the Iran hostage crisis by spying on the Iranian captors.

He was part of the CIA's Project Stargate that was the US government's new weapon against the Soviet Union, which aimed to create mind-reading spies who could infiltrate the minds of its enemies.

The CIA declassified a document in 2017 called 'Mars Exploration May 22, 1984' and it was revealed on the podcast that McMoneagle was the test subject.

The report states an envelope was provided to McMoneagle before the interview but was not opened until afterward.

'In the envelope was a 3x5 card with the following information: The Planet Mars. Time of interest approximately one million BC,' the document reads.

The administrator of the experiment verbally relayed the envelope contents and allowed the subject to provide their observations. The starting time was 10:09 a.m. ET.

McMoneagle was asked to focus his attention on '40.89 degrees north, 9.55 degrees west.'

'It sort of looks... I kind of got an oblique view of a... pyramid or pyramid form,' McMoneagle said.

McMoneagle saw giant pyramids on Mars during the experiment and found images of the same structures on the Martian planet

McMoneagle later stormed into NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory to obtain negative images of the targets he was asked to remote view, finding photographs of buildings (pictured) on the Martian landscape

The remove viewer observed shadows of 'very tall, thin' people wearing strange clothing in one place and then saw a violent storm was ripping through Mars, and people were using the giant pyramids for shelter.

'Different chambers... but they're almost stripped of any kind of... furnishing or anything. It's like ah... strictly functional, a place for sleepingor that's not a good wordhibernation, some form,' McMoneagle said.

McMoneagle told Michels that the people were inside the pyramid until help came to rescue them.

'The whole time I thought I was on Earth and it was a new discovery,' he said.

When he learned the target was Mars, McMoneagle was livid.

'I hate doing a target where I cannot prove ground truth because then I don't know if it's real or I'm inventing it,' he said.

McMoneagle also claimed that when NASA 'first clocked' a structure on Mars there was a red light coming from it

McMoneagle showed an image that he said featured a device with buttons and a spinning ball

'I can't actually sit there and say this is exactly 100 percent correct.'

McMoneagle went straight to NASA, demanding negatives of the coordinates he was given during the experiments and showed a 'guy at the counter' the coordinates he was given.

'Oh, this is the old city on Mars,' the man at the counter told him.

McMoneagle was given negatives of the Martian landscape, showing a pyramid-shaped structure on the edge of a giant impact crater.

And when asked how he knew it was manmade, McMoneagle explained that it was created after the impact occurred.

'If it was there [before], it would have been blown away,' he told Michels.

McMoneagle also claimed that when NASA 'first clocked' a structure on Mars there was a red light coming from it.

'They're not hiding [this information], they're just not talking about it,' McMoneagle said.

The 1984 CIA document continued to explain McMoneagle's observations of the 'ancient people .'

'It's past their time or age,' he told the instructor.

'They're very philosophic about it. They're looking for ah... a way to survive, and they just can't.'

McMoneagle then discussed a conversation he was having with one of these people who told him that a group had left in what 'looks like the inside of a larger boat.'

The administrator told him to go along on the journey and report what they saw.

'Impression of a really crazy place with volcanoes and gas pockets and strange plantsa very volatile place. It's very much like going from the frying pan into the fire,' McMoneagle said.

'The difference is there seems to be a lot of vegetation where the other place did not have it. And a different kind of storm.'

The administrator then told the McMoneagle it was time to come back, ending the remote viewing.
Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more

An affordable British brand, created with the mission to demystify skincare and focus on skin barrier repair, has become one of the top sellers in Europe.

Less than three years after launching in the beauty market, BYOMA is now finally available in Australia - sending fans wild Down Under.

The brand boasts a 1.6 million following because it encourages shoppers to make informed choices about their personal skin needs, offering simple yet effective products at an incredibly affordable price point.

Now the heralded brand is landing at Sephora Australia, where beauty fans can finally get their hands on the hero product, one of which sells every six seconds globally.

The Moisturizing Gel Cream, $27, is a hit with consumers for its unique formulation that combines a lightweight, fast-absorbing and cooling gel texture with the hydrating power of a cream.

Particularly loved by customers who report struggling previously with sensitive or acne-prone skin, the product blends a Tri-Ceramide complex of ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids with protective niacinamide and green tea.

These powerful ingredients work to boost and protect the skin barrier, increase hydration and reduce sensitivity.

One bottle of BYOMA's Moisturizing Gel Cream, $27, sells every six seconds

BYOMA founder and CEO Marc Elrick noticed that with the rise of people seeking skincare advice on TikTok, consumers were buying 'viral' products for quick fixes without truly understanding their personal skin needs.

The result was often 'over-treating, over-exfoliating and breaking their skin barriers'.

So he set out to create an accessible, science-backed skincare brand with simple, effective formulations - 'gentle enough for sensitive skin, yet powerful enough to deliver noticeable, glowing results for all skin types.'

'What sets BYOMA apart is our commitment to education and innovation. Our response to this was, "Let's create a system that makes it easy for people to shop and navigate",' Marc told Daily Mail Australia.

'For us, it's really important that people not only know what's in the product but also understand the role and function it plays.'

Marc said while the scientific aspects of skincare - such as research, testing and clinical validation - must be rigorous and reliable, the way a skincare brand communicates with its audience doesn't need to be overly serious.

'We wanted to connect with consumers in a way, language and tone that they understood. Ultimately, we believe serious science doesn't have to sound so serious,' he explained.

'Serious skincare can also have a personality and can also be fun. What's really cool about BYOMA is that we have made luxury, science-backed, clinically effective skincare affordable, while also being approachable and accessible.'

BYOMA launched in 2022 and has become one of Europe's best selling skincare brand, beloved for championing education so customers can make informed choices about their skin

Marc launched the skincare brand in 2022 with his husband Rob Brittain.

BYOMA quickly grew a cult following. The brand is beloved by its community for its 'radical transparency,' decoding the ingredients in every product and championing education in the skincare space.

Each product falls into a category of either cleanse, tone, treat, moisturise or protect and has easy instructions visible on the bottle, so users know whether to use it at morning or night and what products you should use before or after it.

With the hugely popular beauty brand now available in Australia, there's never been a better time to take your skincare seriously.

'We're coming to Australia at an exciting time for the brand as we have just launched our biggest innovation, which we've spent the last five years researching,' Marc said.

'It shows our dedication to building better beauty, better brand, better products, better testing and better connections, while also inspiring positive change in the world.

'We're one of the fastest growing skincare brands in the world and a top five skincare brand in every single market - including the US and UK.

'BYOMA is the number three skincare brand in Sephora Europe, which is amazing since we only launched with them two years ago.'

News of BYOMA launching in Australia has sent beauty fans into a spin, with one saying: 'OMG BYOMA is coming to Australia. OMG stop I'm going to scream.'

'Yes! I'M SO EXCITED Ive always wanted it to be in Sephora Australia,' another said.

'OMG BYOMA is my favourite skincare brand ever. I use it every day. I'm so happy it's coming to Australia,' one added.

All of the products in the BYOMA range boost and protect the skin barrier with clinically proven formulations

The brand's products have attracted thousands of glowing reviews from happy customers with the Moisturizing Gel Cream alone attracting hundreds of five star reviews, with one verified customer calling it 'actual magic.'

Another consumer wrote online that it 'saved' their skin.

'It has become part of my AM and PM routine and I love it. If anyone has dry and sensitive skin BYOMA is the place for you. With low prices you will be able to afford, this product will change your skin in no time!'

Another rave review praised the lightweight formula, writing, 'This product is remarkably lightweight, and I can't express how much I adore it!'

'After using it diligently for over a year, Ive seen a transformative change in my skin - my battle with acne is finally over.'

'In the past, my skin felt trapped under thick, heavy moisturisers that often felt suffocating and left a greasy film.

'However, this product is a game changer. It provides a burst of hydration that feels airy and refreshing, allowing my skin to feel liberated.'

'My complexion now radiates health and vitality, glowing with a natural luminosity. It delivers just the right amount of moisture without any heaviness, making my skin feel nourished and revitalised.'

Also landing on Australian shelves are other bestsellers from the BYOMA range, including the Creamy Jelly Cleanser, $24, an ultra hydrating jelly that transforms into a rich cream lather to break down dirt and excess oil, and is infused with antioxidants and ceramides to protect and boost hydration.

The brand's latest launch is a Phyto-Mucin Glow Serum, $30, that promises to deliver that coveted glass skin

Shop the full BYOMA range, available in Australia exclusively at Sephora

What we think of BYOMA Shopping Editor, Sarah Fitzmaurice says: 'This brand proves that effective skincare can be affordable. The Phyto-Mucin Glow serum is incredible at delivering that coveted glow and lasting hydration that I'm obsessed with. I've raved about this serum to everyone recently, if you want glass skin, use this. 'When paired with the moisturising gel cream, my skin feels incredible nourished and after using both products at night, I wake up glowing. 'If you've compromised your skin barrier with harsh actives, BYOMA will restore your complexion and improve your skin - it's no wonder the brand has such a cult following.' Advertisement

Another fan favourite is the $28 Hydrating Serum, enriched with the brands Tri-Ceramide complex, Squalene and Glycerine to increase moisture levels and prevent water loss.

New to the line up is the Phyto-Mucin Glow Serum, $30, BYOMAs latest launch that promises to deliver that coveted 'glass skin' via plant-derived peptides and phyto-mucin, humectant panthenol and the brands barrier lipid complex, for 'glowing, luminous results.'

The BYOMA range is clinically proven, with 120,000 skin measurements captured from external clinical trials, and every product undergoing at least two independently tested and verified clinical trials.

The super affordable products are dermatologist tested and approved, non-comedogenic, alcohol free, and vegan and cruelty free.

'We're accessible in many different ways, and I'm especially proud that we're democratising luxury skincare by making it affordable,' Marc told Daily Mail Australia.

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The White Lotus season three took a political turn on episode three as the characters argued about voting for President Trump.

During dinner, Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan) and Laurie (Carrie Coon) were shocked to learn that their childhood friend Kate (Leslie Bibb) voted for Trump in the last election.

While they appear mildly bemused in the conversation, they later brand her 'insane' behind her back, claiming voting for Trump was a 'self-defeating' move as a woman.

Meanwhile, after being caught up in a terrifying armed robbery, Chelsea (Aimee Lou Wood) found herself in another near-death situation after she was bitten by a venomous cobra.

Finally, Gary (Jon Gries) who viewers know is really a conman who went by Greg in the earlier seasons, looked set to have his identity rumbled after being spotted by season one's Belinda (Natasha Rothwell).

Read on for a full recap of The White Lotus season 3 episode 3 recap.

The White Lotus season three took a political turn on episode three as the characters argued about voting for President Trump

Finally, Gary (Jon Gries) who viewers know is really a conman who went by Greg in the earlier seasons, looked set to have his identity rumbled after being spotted by season one's Belinda (Natasha Rothwell)

Meanwhile, after being caught up in a terrifying armed robbery, Chelsea ( Aimee Lou Wood ) found herself in another near-death situation after she was bitten by a venomous cobra

The episode begins with Victoria (Parker Posey) asleep, dreaming about wading into the sea, while son Lochlan (Sam Nivola) forebodingly warns that a tsunami is coming.

She's awoken from her nightmare by husband Timothy (Jason Isaacs) in a heated phone call trying to absolve himself from the money laundering scheme he's involved in.

At breakfast, Rick (Walton Goggins) is quick to approach hotel owner Sritala (Lek Patravadi) to praise her for her performance at the talent show the night before.

Trying to tag along with her to Bangkok, he clams he is a producer working on a new project and wants her to meet with a director there.

Across the room, Timothy is being inundated with phone calls.

Excusing himself from his concerned family members, he speaks to this colleagues who reveal his office has now been raided by the FBI.

Back in their room, Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) reveals he's been inundated with calls from colleagues trying to get hold of Timothy, and suggests they call in together.

Desperate to stop his son finding out the trouble he's in, Timothy orders the family to surrender their phones and laptops to the resort and go on a digital detox.

With Saxon feeling bored at the prospect of having no screen time, he sets himself the challenge of getting little brother Lochlan with his love life, vowing to get him 'laid'.

The episode begins with Victoria ( Parker Posey ) asleep, dreaming about wading into the sea, while son Lochlan (Sam Nivola) forebodingly warns that a tsunami is coming

She's awoken from her nightmare by husband Timothy (Jason Isaacs) in a heated phone call trying to absolve himself from the money laundering scheme he's involved in

At breakfast, Rick (Walton Goggins) is quick to approach hotel owner Sritala (Lek Patravadi) to praise her for her performance at the talent show the night before

Rick has returned for another stress management session and despite his reservations he soon begins to open up, admitting 'I've done a lot of bad things' and 'made a lot of mistakes'.

Outside the resort, Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook) visits the local Buddhist temple where she confesses that she hasn't only wanted to explore Buddhism for her studies but she's considering signing up for their year-long programme.

By the hotel pool, Chloe (Charlotte Le Bon) is also referencing secrecy, lamenting to Chelsea that Gary won't open to her and is guarded about his ex-wife.

In The White Lotus' second season, Gary (then known as Greg) was married to Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge) who ultimately met her demise when she accidentally drowned.

Chloe claims that Greg told her Tanya was a 'mental patient who killed herself by walking out into the ocean', claiming that police only found 'part of her leg'.

The pair's chat is interrupted when Rick walks over and announces he's going to visit the town, with Chelsea chasing after him.

Realising Chloe has been left alone, Saxon makes an excuse to come over and strikes up conversation.

After attempting to fend off the armed robbers in episode two, hotel security guard Gaitok (Tayme Thapthimthong) offers to work as a bodyguard for owner Sritala yet is mocked by her team for being a 'little turkey who acts like a rooster'.

Rick has returned for another stress management session and despite his reservations he soon begins to open up, admitting 'I've done a lot of bad things' and 'made a lot of mistakes'.

The pair's chat is interrupted when Rick walks over and announces he's going to visit the town, with Chelsea chasing after him

Chelsea follows Rick into town and begs him to start having more fun with her, but he's only concerned with getting his hand on cannabis.

Having scored himself drugs, Rick takes Chelsea to a snake show across the road.

Yet it ends in disaster when stoned Rick takes it upon himself to free the venomous snakes from their cages, resulting in Chelsea getting bitten by a cobra - whose venom is fatal if not treated within 30 minutes.

Thankfully all is well when she's rushed to hospital and is still able to attend her double date dinner with Rick, Chloe and Greg that night.

With the incident happening just one day after Chelsea was held at gunpoint in the hotel robbery, Chloe jokes that after experiencing 'two near death moments in two days' that she shouldn't join the them the next day for a trip on Greg's boat.

Across the hotel, Jaclyn, Kate and Laurie are debriefing each other about their days, with Laurie detailing her 'intimate' healing session with hunky resort worker Valentin (Arnas Fedaravicius).

Talk then turns to religion and Kate reveals that since she moved to Austin, Texas she's been attending weekly church services.

Jaclyn admits she'd find it 'weird' to be 'around a bunch of Texans who voted for Trump', saying she would find herself feeling 'alienated'.

Yet it ends in disaster when stoned Rick takes it upon himself to free the venomous snakes from their cages, resulting in Chelsea getting bitten by a cobra - whose venom is fatal if not treated within 30 minutes

Across the hotel, Jaclyn, Kate and Laurie are debriefing each other about their days, with Laurie detailing her 'intimate' healing session with hunky resort worker Valentin (Arnas Fedaravicius)

Jaclyn admits she'd find it 'weird' to be 'around a bunch of Texans who voted for Trump', saying she would find herself feeling 'alienated'

As Laurie questions whether Kate discusses politics with her new neighbours, she then probes over whether she's a Republican.

While Kate insists she's an Independent, her friends are left in shock and ask whether she voted for Donald Trump.

Kate insinuates that she has, but quick to change the subject, she vows to take her friends to church with her if they ever visit her in the South.

Meanwhile, Belinda is at dinner with Pornchai (Dom Hetrakul).

At this point she realises Tanya's husband Greg, now going by Gary, is staying at the same resort and goes over to speak to him.

Yet Gary denies ever having met Belinda or having any knowledge of Tanya.

At the Ratliff table, Saxon reveals he's scored the family an invite on Gary's boat the next day, while Timothy has been unable to make it to dinner after taking one of Victoria's pills and passing out.

Outside, Gaitok is left worried after being told he has to meet with General Manager Fabian (Christian Friedel) to discuss the robbery.

At this point she realises Tanya's husband Greg, now going by Gary, is staying at the same resort and goes over to speak to him.

While back in their room, Walter phones a friend to ask for help with a problem and says he'll be in Bangkok tomorrow.

Yet he's interrupted with Chelsea asking why he released the snakes and warning: 'If you kill me, I'll follow you into the next life, and the next.'

Romance seems to be blossoming between a 'tipsy' Pornchai and Belinda, as he walks her back to his room and says he hopes that they have 'good dreams' about each other that night.

Yet Belinda is left feeling uneasy as she returns to her room, seemingly spotting something in the shadows.

Jaclyn and Laurie are debriefing about their conversation with Kate, claiming she's 'insane' to have voted for Trump and that's a 'self-defeating' move for a woman.

Unaware that Kate is watching them, they add that her husband Dave 'always calls the shots' and muse that people 'get more conservative the older they get'.

The episode ends with Timothy sneaking another one of Victoria's pills in a bid to get to sleep amid the ongoing money laundering drama he's involved in.

The White Lotus Season 3 is released on HBO streaming service Max at 9pm ET / 6pm PT on Sunday.

It is available in the UK on Sky and streaming service NOW from 2am on Monday mornings.
Sunday's new episode of Paramount Plus' 1923 - a prequel to the Paramount Network hit Yellowstone - ended in quite the shocking cliffhanger.

The Dutton family was largely separated, with Jacob (Harrison Ford) and his son Jack (Darren Mann) heading into town to help his ranch foreman Zane (Brian Geraghty), whose Asian wife Alice (Joy Omanski) arrested on miscegenation, since in Montana at that time it was illegal for people of mixed races to legally marry.

Jacob went to try and sort this matter all out, though he wouldn't quite make it home thanks to a nasty storm.

That left Jacob's wife Cara (Helen Mirren) and Jack's fiancee Elizabeth Strafford (Michelle Randolph) home on the ranch, where they ran into some trouble of their own.

This second episode also serves as the quarter mark for the eight-episode season, with some fans complaining Spencer (Brandon Sklenar) and Alexandra's (Julia Schlaepfer) story isn't progressing fast enough.

Fans were not shy about going on social media to express their opinions about both aspects of Sunday's new episode.

Early in the episode, Elizabeth heads to the chicken coop to gather more eggs, though she's shocked to find several bloodied and dead chickens.

That left Jacob's wife Cara ( Helen Mirren ) and Jack's fiancee Elizabeth Strafford (Michelle Randolph) home on the ranch, where they ran into some trouble of their own.

She quickly finds the source of this - a bloodthirsty wolf, snarling at her and ultimately lunging at her as she quickly tries to escape

She quickly finds the source of this - a bloodthirsty wolf, snarling at her and ultimately lunging at her as she quickly tries to escape.

While she manages to escape, the wolf also escapes as well through a dug-up hole in the coop, chasing down Elizabeth and sinking its claws into her ankle.

Thankfully a ranch hand is nearby and scares the wolf away with a shot from his pistol, but while he scurries away, he's seen staring down Elizabeth from a distance as the ranch hand fetches the buggy.

While the ranch hand tried to shoot at the wolf, he missed, which would prove important since at the end of the episode, the wolf returned, making it's way inside the Dutton home, killing a nurse who was staying the night.

The episode ends with the wolf snarling at the rifle-toting Cara, lunging at her as she fires the rifle, though fans weren't sure if Cara managed to survive or not.

It was also revealed that Spencer had arrived in Galveston, Texas, while his bride Alexandra was on a boat bound for America as well.

After watching them fall in love in the first season, fans are none too pleased that the couple may be split up all season long, and that it may take Spencer at least a few more episodes before he arrives home in Montana.

X user @abike said, 'Yikes!! That wolf was scary #1923 #1923TV,' while @chicksopinion thought a wolf couldn't kill Cara.

While she manages to escape, the wolf also escapes as well through a dug-up hole in the coop, chasing down Elizabeth and sinking its claws into her ankle

Thankfully a ranch hand is nearby and scares the wolf away with a shot from his pistol, but while he scurries away, he's seen staring down Elizabeth from a distance as the ranch hand fetches the buggy

While the ranch hand tried to shoot at the wolf, he missed, which would prove important since at the end of the episode, the wolf returned, making it's way inside the Dutton home, killing a nurse who was staying the night.

The episode ends with the wolf snarling at the rifle-toting Cara, lunging at her as she fires the rifle, though fans weren't sure if Cara managed to survive or not.

It was also revealed that Spencer had arrived in Galveston, Texas

At the same time, his bride Alexandra was on a boat bound for America as well

X user @abike said, 'Yikes!! That wolf was scary #1923 #1923TV,' while @chicksopinion thought a wolf couldn't kill Cara.

The wolf cliffhanger was apparently enough to turn one viewer off for good, admits @Patriclus47, who said, 'Spoiler alert. Im done with 1923. It is one unrealistic contrived thing after the next followed by a wolf breaking into a home and eating someone. Terrible accented narration. Lazy, horrible, writing.'

Another fan dubbed @Sexy_goddess01 said, 'That ending is kinda insane,' though others were more annoyed that Spencer and Alex are still so far apart.

Melljxo (@abike) added, 'Hopefully Spencer gets home this season,' a notion echoed by many others

Another fan named Crystal (@crystaaaaaal_) added, 'Season two is 8 episodes long. Spencer and Alex need to be in Montana by episode four and five. No need to drag this out for a full season because its possible season three may not happen'

'Surely a wolf isnt strong enough to take Cara Dutton! She deserves a much more dignified death! #1923tv' the social media user said.

Ladybuglizzie (@sagevalentine) admitted, 'They should have killed that wolf,' adding in another tweet, 'That wolf was rabid. #1923TV.'

The wolf cliffhanger was apparently enough to turn one viewer off for good, admits @Patriclus47, who said, 'Spoiler alert. Im done with 1923. It is one unrealistic contrived thing after the next followed by a wolf breaking into a home and eating someone. Terrible accented narration. Lazy, horrible, writing.'

Another fan dubbed @Sexy_goddess01 said, 'That ending is kinda insane,' though others were more annoyed that Spencer and Alex are still so far apart.

Kyle (@SadBadgerFan) said, 'I stg if it takes Spencer the entire season to make it to Montana, Im gonna be so annoyed.'

Melljxo (@abike) added, 'Hopefully Spencer gets home this season,' a notion echoed by many others.

Another fan named Crystal (@crystaaaaaal_) added, 'Season two is 8 episodes long. Spencer and Alex need to be in Montana by episode four and five. No need to drag this out for a full season because its possible season three may not happen.'

It is believed that Season 2 will be the final season of the series, though there has been no official word if the show will continue in any other fashion.

1923 continues its second season with the third episode on Sunday, March 9 only on Paramount Plus.
Saturday Kitchen star Matt Tebbutt has opened up about he truly feels when going live on BBC Breakfast when on the show.

The 51-year-old, who is reportedly in talks to replace Gregg Wallace, 60, on MasterChef, is best known for presenting a number of cooking programmes including Food Unwrapped, Market Kitchen and Great British Food Revival.

Matt has presented Saturday Kitchen for the past nine years, after taking over from former host James Martin, who presented the programme between 2006 and 2016.

The chef gets up to a lot of fun stuff on the show, including chatting to guest chefs and a range of celebrities.

Before going live, BBC Breakfast - which airs just before Saturday Kitchen - tunes into the studio to find out what viewers can expect from Matt.

Speaking about his encounters with hosts Charlie Stayt, 62,and Naga Munchetty, 50, Matt told The Express: 'Honestly, the most on edge and the most nervous I am of the whole Saturday morning is when I get thrown to the lions in that news room.

Saturday Kitchen's Matt Tebbutt reveals how he truly feels going live on air to BBC Breakfast as he's 'in talks' to replace Gregg Wallace on MasterChef

Matt, 51, has presented Saturday Kitchen since 2016, after taking over from James Martin, who presented the show for a decade

Charlie and Naga present BBC Breakfast every Thursday to Saturday from 6am - and regularly check in with Matt to find out what Saturday Kitchen viewers can expect

'And youve just got to sort of fend them off and come back with something, and sometimes it works, sometimes it doesnt.'

Charlie and Naga present the news show every Thursday to Saturday from 6am, while Jon Kay, 55, and Sally Nugent, 53, present Monday to Wednesday.

But despite that, he's a huge fan of Naga and her on air banter - and just last month Matt suggested that she had to be 'cut off' after an awkward on-air clash.

He added to the publication: 'I love Nagas sense of humour. Its a bit like the old school ground stuff where youre sort of prod people to provoke a reaction.

'She is as sharp as a razor and you do not know where its going to come from next.

'I mean, one minute they could be talking about some awful death and destruction, and the next minute total curveball and it just catches you off guard, and as much as I dread it, I love it as well.'

On Sunday, it was revealed that Matt might be adding MasterChef to his list of TV programmes that he has presented.

Back in November Gregg stepped back from the BBC show after being under investigation over a string of allegations of inappropriate behaviour.

Gregg presented the popular show between 2005 and 2024.

Speculation over who was going to replace him ended in January when food critic Grace Dent was revealed as the new presenter.

Grace has appeared on MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals and Celebrity MasterChef over the years as a regular critic.

The columnist started filming the celebrity version of the programme alongside her new co-star John Torode, 59, last month.

But according to The Sun, it is not known if she will continue with the role for the main show.

A source told the publication: 'Matt rose to the challenge of coming into Saturday Kitchen after it was previously hosted by another big name in the world of food, James Martin'.

'He managed the feat of making it his own and almost making viewers forget who his predecessor was  now Beeb bosses, and the show producers Banijay, will be hoping he can work the same magic on MasterChef'.

Before adding: 'Nothing is set in stone, of course, and the result of investigations into Greggs behaviour have yet to fully conclude.

'But since MasterChef is such a huge show with a massive following, the Beeb are keen to have everything lined up ready'.

MailOnline contacted the BBC and Matt Tebbutt's reps for comments.

Saturday Kitchen airs on BBC.
A new gripping detective drama will air on Channel 4 this week, and it's set to rival the BBC's Death In Paradise.

Get Millie Black is a police series starring Tamara Lawrance as ex-Scotland Yard detective Millie Black.

The show originally aired in America on streaming platform HBO but will hit UK screens on Channel 4 on March 5 at 9pm.

Like Death In Paradise, Get Millie Black follows an officer who moves abroad to tackle criminal cases.

The new series sees Detective Millie in Jamaica as she works on a missing persons situation.

Other cast members include Skins actor Joe Dempsie as Luke Holborn, Joan star Gershwyn Eustache Jnr as Curtis and Chyna Mcqueen as Hibiscus.

A new gripping detective drama will air on Channel 4 this week, and it's set to rival the BBC's Death In Paradise

Get Millie Black is a police series starring Tamara Lawrance, pictured left, as ex-Scotland Yard detective Millie Black

Like Death In Paradise, pictured, Get Millie Black follows an officer who moves abroad to tackle criminal cases

The five-episode series was written by award-winning author Marlon James' and has an impressive 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Actress Tamara described her character as 'irreverent, belligerent, hawk-eyed and driven by her heart for justice'.

The show was filmed in Jamaica and Tamara added: 'The landscape of Kingston was integral to the authenticity of this piece and platformed aspects of Jamaica weve not seen before.'

Marlon commented: 'When people think of a Caribbean crime, they might think of Death In Paradise.

'But its more than that. Its complicated, its dark, its sexy, its mysterious. You get the entire cross section of Jamaican society, but it is set in Kingston.

'It is a city noir. It is what LA is to Chinatown.'

The writer added that he wanted viewers to see 'there is more to Jamaica than tourist boats and Mai Tais on the beach'.

It comes after it was confirmed another police drama, Unforgotten, has been recommissioned for a seventh season by ITV.

The show originally aired in America on streaming platform HBO but will hit UK screens on Channel 4 on March 5 at 9pm

The five-episode series was written by award-winning author Marlon James' and has an impressive 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes

Writer Marlon James described he wanted viewers to see 'there is more to Jamaica than tourist boats and Mai Tais on the beach'

Created by multi-award-winning screenwriter Chris Lang, the show follows detectives as they delve into cold cases.

The sixth series was a great streaming success, with the first episode attracting 7.4million viewers after 14 days.

It stars Sinead Keenan as DCI Jessica 'Jessie' James and Sanjeev Bhaskar DI Sunil Sunny Khan.

Get Millie Black airs on Channel 4 on Wednesday, March 5 at 9pm
This Morning's resident vet was left red-faced after his pooch chewed through his lead live on air while he gave viewers advice about their pets.

Dr Scott Miller occasionally appears on the ITV daytime show and shares his expertise with fans.

On Monday's instalment presented by Ben Shephard, 50, and Cat Deeley, 48, he gave advice to viewers calling in with their pet problems.

He covered how to toilet train one caller's rescue dog, how to stop another puppy destroying it's owners home and tips for preventing over excitement.

However Dr Scott, who is originally from Brisbane in Australia, soon discovered his own dog, Mango, had completely chewed through the lead and hilariously broke free when talking to a cat owner about her feline pet not eating enough.

'... Look at this, he's just chewed his leash, I am literally the hypocrite of hypocrites right now, I can't train my own dog,' he joked.

This Morning's resident vet, Dr Scott Miller, pictured, was left red-faced after his pooch chewed through his lead live on air while he gave viewers advice about their pets

On Monday's instalment presented by Ben Shephard, right, and Cat Deeley, centre, he gave advice to viewers calling in with their pet problems

However Dr Scott, who is originally from Brisbane in Australia, soon discovered his own dog, Mango, had completely chewed through the lead and hilariously broke free

Dr Scott later advised another viewer to walk her pet alongside other dogs who are sociable and 'let her dog free' with them.

'Sometimes it's on-lead interactions that can lead to a little bit of angst and feistiness but the more you get to know your dog and the more you get to know other dogs I think the better,' he said.

The camera showed the Aussie's pooch walking around the studio with a short piece of lead hanging from his collar.

Ben and Cat were unable to control their laughter at the scene and Cat quipped, 'un-lead interaction did you say Dr Scott?'

'I'm just going to go get my coat,' the vet replied chuckling.

Dr Scott adopted rescue dog Mango last year and announced his family's new addition on the show in July.

He said: 'I am so in love it's insane.'

Presenter Dermot O'Leary commented: 'That dog doesn't know he's born, he's going to have a lovely life. Look at him so cute.'

It came after Dr Scott's beloved pet dog Betty passed away in 2020 after spending 15 years by his side.

The vet broke down in tears on social media last year as he revealed he was reminded of his beloved pet while editing a YouTube video.

Taking to Instagram an emotional Scott wept as he explained how his latest case, helping a dog who was also called Betty, hit close to home.

The camera showed the Aussie's pooch walking around the studio with a short piece of lead hanging from his collar

Ben and Cat were unable to control their laughter at the scene and Cat quipped, 'un-lead interaction did you say Dr Scott?'

Telling followers: 'Hope you're having a really lovely Easter. I have just watched the most recent video that we will be posting on Rescue Vet, It's about a dog called Betty who, as you may remember, some of you, from watching Vet On The Hill,'

'That my dog was called Betty. Sadly I lost her a couple of years ago, and we've kind of touched on that in this latest episode and it's made me cry,'

He continued: 'So for all of you that are missing a dog in your life that you've loved very much and you've lost then my heart's with you.'

'I'm sorry if this video makes you cry. You probably will,' he continued. 'But yeah, just just let me know how you're feeling, and just know that we're in this together.'

This Morning airs on ITV1 and ITVX weekdays from 10.30am to 12pm.
Married At First Sight star Oliva Frazer has unleashed on producers of the reality series, following 2025 contestant Paul Antoine's violent outburst.

On Wednesday, the 31-year-old FIFO worker admitted he became so enraged after his wife Carina Mirabile told him she had once slept with US rapper Quevo, he punched a door in frustration.

Taking to TikTok after the incident, Olivia slammed Channel Nine and production company Endemol Shine Australia, for 'excusing violence'.

Olivia, who appeared on the 2022 season of the reality hit, claimed that producers do not live up to promises of a zero tolerance policy when it comes to violence among participants.

'This is not the first time Endemol Shine Australia and Channel Nine have excused violence, despite what they preach,' she said in the long-winded clip.

'If there was a zero tolerance policy, then after such displays of violence participants would be rightfully removed from the show immediately.'

Married At First Sight star Oliva Frazer (pictured) has unleashed on producers of the reality series, following 2025 contestant Paul Antoine's violent outburst

Paul (left) admitted he became so enraged after his wife Carina Mirabile (right) told him she had once slept with US rapper Quevo, he punched a door in frustration

She added that she had been told by producers before filming that displays of aggression were strictly forbidden.

'We were told before filming that anything violent would have us removed from the program,' she said.

'To quote what [a producer] said to us on briefing day, "So much as a clenched fist and you are out the door."

'But that didn't happen, did it? And it still hasn't happened.'

Olivia then brought up an incident from her season that saw fellow bride Domenica Calarco, violently smash a glass during a verbal altercation with Olivia at a dinner party.

Olivia alleged that the incident was 'trivialised' and she was 'gaslit' by producers into not making a formal complaint.

'When something violent happend to me, it was trivialised to start with, but essentially I was told to get over it,' she said in the video.

'I wanted to call the police and I was told I would be risking the jobs of hundreds of people and [was] guilted out of doing something to protect myself.'

'This is not the first time Endemol Shine Australia and Channel Nine have excused violence, despite what they preach,' she said in the long-winded TikTok video

'We were told before filming that anything violent would have us removed from the program,' she said. 'To quote what [a producer] said to us on briefing day, "So much as a clenched fist and you are out the door."'

Olivia then brought up an incident from her season that saw fellow bride Domenica Calarco (pictured) violently smash a glass during a verbal altercation at a dinner party

Olivia continued: 'I was isolated and cornered by three female executive producers who gaslit me, downplayed my experience, and made false promises to keep me on the show.'

Olivia then claimed that producers told her she would not have to interact with Domenica outside of dinner parties and commitment ceremonies, which she alleges in the video was not the case.

'When I made it clear that I no longer felt safe living next door to my aggressor, they made a promise I would never have to see her unless it was filming a dinner party or commitment ceremony,' Olivia said.

'They sent my aggressor knocking on my door with a full film crew and producers, knowing that they were breaking their promise to me and knowing yet again that I would feel unsafe in the workplace.

'They wanted to exploit me feeling unsafe as much as possible. They wanted to violate any sense of security I had living in that environment. And they did a good job of that.'

Olivia then claimed producers manipulated the fracas in editing, making it look like Domenica's actions were justified.

'The truth is I didn't want that argument... God forbid I sick up for myself,' she said.

'I never baited my aggressor, as much as it was presented to you on screen.'

'I wanted to call the police and I was told I would be risking the jobs of hundreds of people and [was] guilted out of doing something to protect myself,' said Olivia

Olivia continued: 'I was isolated and cornered by three female executive producers who gaslit me, downplayed my experience, and made false promises to keep me on the show.' Pictured with groom Jackson Lonie

Olivia, who admitted that she is still affected by the incident, also had a dig at fans who took her on-screen portrayal at face value.

'To anyone cheering it on... you should be ashamed of yourself,' she said.

'The act is abhorrent and inexcusable and it has been excused for many years. Let me be clear, there is no excuse for violence of any sort, ever.'

Rounding out her explosive post, Olivia called for the series to be taken off air while allegations of abuse and violence are properly investigated.

'What is also disturbing is Endemol Shine Australia and Channel Nine yet again allowing violent participants to remain in a workplace,' she said.

'If they really wanted to set examples for society like they claim, the aggressor should be been removed immediately.

'The show needs to be stopped. It needs to be investigated for all sorts of current and historical abuse of participants and production needs to answer for the abuse that they have subjected participants to for far too long.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Channel Nine for comment.

If this article has raised any issues, help is available at 1800RESPECT.
Heidi Klum dazzled on the red carpet at she arrived at the most famous Academy Awards viewing party in the world.

The model, 51, who had attended the annual Chanel pre-Oscars party on Saturday night wearing a classic little black dress upped her game for Sunday's festivities in Los Angeles.

The German-born beauty showcased her assets in a curve-hugging strapless gown by Marmar Halim with a plunging asymmetrical neckline that reached her naval.

The sexy bodice was matched by a thigh high slit, which showcased the America's Got Talent alum's toned legs.

Klum wore open toed black mules, and kept her accessories simple, opting for a large Lorraine Schwartz diamond ring on her right hand and a smaller diamond ring on her left.

Her long, blond hair was styled in straight layers, and her makeup was camera ready with a smoky eye and nearly nude lip.

Heidi Klum , 51, showcased her assets in a curve-hugging strapless gown by Marmar Halim with a plunging asymmetrical neckline that reached her naval and a thigh high split at the Elton John AIDS Foundations Oscar's viewing party on Sunday in West Hollywood

Prior to getting into her car for the drive to the exclusive event at West Hollywood Park, Klum turned the lawn of her large estate into a runway, as she modeled her look for Hollywood's biggest night.

While sauntering barefoot on the grass, the Germany's Top Model host grooved to the beat of Daydream sung by the Gunter Kallmann Choir.

Fans, including Paris Hilton, expressed their approval with heart emojis.

But the fun wasn't over just yet.

Klum also showed how active she could be wearing the designer gown by jumping on her trampoline.

'Happy Oscars!' she shouted as she and the dress defied gravity on rebounder. 'It's an Oscar warmup!'

Her posts indicated the trampoline video might be part of an advertisement for Loreal Paris.

The watch party was sponsored by the Elton John AIDS Foundation to raise money for AIDS treatment and research.

The model's long, blond hair was styled in straight layers, and her makeup was camera ready with a smoky eye and nearly nude lip

Klum turned the lawn of her large estate into a runway, as she walked barefoot on the grass, modeling her look for Hollywood's biggest night

Klum also showed how active she could be wearing the designer gown by jumping on her trampoline.

'Happy Oscars!' she shouted as she and the dress defied gravity on rebounder. 'It's an Oscar warmup!'

Co-hosts for the evening included Elton John, his husband David Furnish, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jean Smart, Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka.

Chappel Roan was scheduled to perform for the A-list guests at the star-studded afterparty.

The Elton John AIDS Foundation was founded by the Grammy winner in 1992.

Since then, the charity has raised more than $660 million and has helped people with HIV/AIDS in 95 countries.
Kelly Ripa made a stunning appearance on the 2025 Academy Awards red carpet in a gorgeous salmon-colored gown.

The 54-year-old longtime morning show host  who is mourning the loss of her dog Chewie  displayed her extremely toned arms in the sleeveless look.

The mother-of-three showed off her gym-honed physique, just hours after getting in a virtual workout with trainer Anna Kaiser.

Kelly's dazzling dress boasted a wrapped design at the bodice, which was accented by a neck scarf and a sliver of a flesh-baring cutout.

The elegant look gave way to a subtly pleated, floor-grazing flowing skirt.

Kelly Ripa made a stunning appearance on the 2025 Academy Awards red carpet in a gorgeous salmon-colored gown

The 54-year-old longtime morning show host displayed her extremely toned arms in the sleeveless look

Rips pulled her lustrous blonde locks into a fun and flirty updo  a textured and bouncy ponytail with a sleek center part.

The hairstyle allowed her to flaunt her glinting, multi-tiered diamond drop earrings as well as her immaculately applied peach-toned makeup that gave her visage a beautiful glow.

She was joined by her longtime love and Live! With Kelly and Mark co-host, 53-year-old husband Mark Consuelos.

The actor looked typically handsome in a double-breasted black tuxedo, button-up white shirt, and black bowtie.

The former soap opera heartthrob was clean-shaven for the star-studded event, and his dark hair was freshly cut and slicked back with a side part.

Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter on the red carpet, the dynamic duo shared their tips for optimizing their time at the awards show.

'I have a pair of Uggs backstage,' Kelly revealed, while Mark added, 'I got a pair of sneakers backstage.'

'Yeah, and we've got candy. So candy, comfortable shoes, and a lot of patience,' the blonde Hollywood vet added.

On Monday morning, the pair will host their daily ABC morning show from the Oscars stage, giving a live audience and viewers at home a recap of the ceremony.

The mother-of-three showed off her gym-honed physique, just hours after getting in a virtual workout with trainer Anna Kaiser

Ripa was joined by her longtime love, 53-year-old husband Mark Consuelos

The 97th Academy Awards are honoring the best films of 2024, with the starry ceremony being held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Conan O'Brien, 61, is making his debut as Oscars host, after joking: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

Emilia Perez leads the nominations with 13 nods, including in the Best Picture, Best Actress in a Leading Role(Karla Sofia Gascon), Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Zoe Saldana), and Best Director (Jacques Audiard) categories.

The Brutalist landed in second place with 10 nods, including Best Picture, Best Director (Brady Corbet), Best Actor (Adrien Brody), Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Guy Pearce), and Best Original Screenplay.

Wicked tied the film, also receiving 10 nominations, including for Best Picture, Best Actress in a Leading Role (Cynthia Erivo), and Best Actress in a Supporting Role (Ariana Grande).
Mindy Kaling posed without her longtime friend BJ Novak when she hit the red carpet at the 2025 Academy Awards on Sunday.

The pair dated on and off from 2004 to 2007, and although they have publicly insisted their bond is now platonic, rumors have been swirling about their equation for years.

They have appeared at multiple public events together since their split, igniting speculation that their relationship might be more than just amicable.

When she received her star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame last month, Mindy - who has not publicly named the father of any of her three children - made headlines by describing BJ as an 'important and integral' part of her family.

However, amid the renewed surge of conjecture, Mindy, 45, posed solo on the red carpet outside Hollywood's famed Dolby Theatre this Oscar night.

She highlighted her slimmed-down frame in a silver gown that was designed to appear as if it were made up of hundreds of metallic leaves strung together.

Mindy Kaling posed without her longtime friend BJ Novak when she hit the red carpet at the 2025 Academy Awards on Sunday

With a raised neck and flattering fitting, the dress was perfectly calibrated to showcase her taut midriff and hourglass frame.

Sweeping her hair back into a long, low ponytail, the The Office alum highlighted her unmistakable features with makeup for her glamorous night on the town.

She jazzed up the ensemble with jewelry by EFFY, including a set of double-hoop earrings and an ornate ring on her left hand index finger.

Mindy is mother to Katherine, seven, Spencer, four, and Anne, one, but has been assiduously private about who fathered her children

This year's Oscars are hosted by beloved former late-night host Conan O'Brien, who is compering the ceremony for the first time.

After his hiring was announced, the famously self-effacing comedian joked: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

Emilia Perez, the Spanish-language musical starring Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofia Gascon, leads the nominations with 13 nods including best picture.

Karla is nominated for best actress for her performance as a cartel chief who pretends to die in order to transition into a woman.

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Amid the renewed surge of conjecture, Mindy, 45, posed solo on the red carpet outside Hollywood's famed Dolby Theatre this Oscar night

Her Oscars campaign was torpedoed by resurfaced old tweets in which Karla made controversial remarks on such subjects as George Floyd and Islam.

Zoe is also nominated for best supporting actress, with Jacques Audriard also in the running for best director for his work on the picture.

The Brutalist, starring Adrien Brody as a Hungarian Jewish Holocaust survivor working as an architect in postwar America, is just behind Emilia Perez with 10 nods.

Adrien is nominated for best actor, as are Brady Corbet for best director, Guy Pearce for best supporting actor and Felicity Jones for best supporting actress.

Wicked is tied with The Brutalist with 10 nods, including best picture, best actress for Cynthia Erivo and best supporting actress for Ariana Grande.

Anora, Sean Baker's rollicking Palme d'Or winner from last year's Cannes Film Festival, is also competing for the best picture honor.

Its leading lady Mikey Madison is up for best actress for her role as a New York stripper, as is Russian actor Yura Borisov for best supporting actor.

Other best picture nominees include the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, starring Timothee Chalamet, who is in contention for best actor.

When she got a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame last month, Mindy made headlines by calling BJ an 'important and integral' part of her family; they are pictured at the ceremony

The drama Conclave about the election of a new Pope, the sci-fi epic Dune: Part Two and the Brazilian political film I'm Still Here are also up for best picture.

So is last year's buzzy horror film The Substance, whose leading lady Demi Moore is nominated for best actress for the first time in her long and glamorous career.

Adrien was widely tipped to win best actor, until Timothee won the Screen Actors Guild Award last weekend in a surprise turn that has upset many predictions.

Best actress is a hazier category, with some predicting that Demi will win after the shower of acclaim she received for her comeback performance in The Substance.

Kieran Culkin seems likely to win best supporting actor for A Real Pain, written and directed by his co-star Jesse Eisenberg, given he has swept the awards circuit so far.

Zoe has also landed a number of wins on the awards circuit for best supporting actress, in a category that includes Ariana Grande as Glinda in Wicked and Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown.

Anora won best picture at both the Directors Guild Of America Awards and the Producers Guild Of America Awards, both of which are regarded as bellwethers for the Oscars, particularly taken together.
Whoopi Goldberg turned heads as she made a rare fashion move by donning an eye-catching gown while attending the 97th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood on Sunday.

The View host, 69 - who recently showed off her latest makeover after taking weight loss drugs to come down from 300lbs - joined other celebrities on the glitzy red carpet such as Ariana Grande and Elle Fanning.

Conan O'Brien took on hosting duties during the star-studded ceremony which were held at the Dolby Theater.

Goldberg - who was one of the presenters - made an appearance at the event in a strapless, dark navy gown that was made of a material that shone under the bright lights on the red carpet.

The strapless dress contained ruched fabric that wrapped around her shoulders and fell into a full skirt.

She accessorized the look with a pair of sparkling, silver earrings as well as a silver-chained necklace for a flashy flare.

Whoopi Goldberg, 69, turned heads as she made a rare fashion move by donning an eye-catching gown while attending the 97th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood on Sunday

Whoopi's makeup was glammed up for the special evening and included a nude-colored matte tint on her lips.

The star paused for a brief photo session upon arriving to the venue and flashed a small smile while showing off her ensemble.

Goldberg was accompanied by her daughter Alexandrea Martin, 51, who sported a black leather dress that clung to her frame and contained silver clasp details on the side for an edgy flare.

She shares Alex with ex-husband Alvin Martin - whom she was married to from 1973 until their divorce in 1979.

The Sister Act actress is no stranger to the Oscars stage and notably hosted the ceremony a total of four times thus far.

She also won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as psychic medium Oda Mae Brown in the 1990 film Ghost.

While walking the red carpet on Sunday, she had the chance to talk to E! News as she reflected on the big win 35 years earlier.

The star was asked, 'What stands out still all these years later about that night for you?' and she simply replied with, 'I brought my kid, and now she's with me again.'

Goldberg made an appearance at the event in a strapless, dark navy gown that was made of a material that shone under the bright lights on the red carpet

The strapless dress contained ruched fabric that wrapped around her shoulders and fell into a full skirt

The star paused for a brief photo session upon arriving to the venue and flashed a small smile while showing off her ensemble

Goldberg was accompanied by her daughter Alexandrea Martin, 51, who sported a black leather dress that clung to her frame and contained silver clasp details on the side for an edgy flare

She was also questioned about her 'favorite memory' from when she hosted the Oscars in the past and expressed, 'For me, my favorite memory is Billy Crystal being wheeled out as Hannibal Lecter.'

'I'm sorry, for me, that's the epitome,' she added, referencing to the moment that occurred amid the 1992 Academy Awards.

While talking to the outlet, Whoopi also gave an update on the production of Sister Act 3 following Maggie Smith's passing last year in September 2024.

The original film - which was released back in 1992 - notably also starred Smith, Kathy Najimy, Wendy Makkena, Mary Wickes and Harvey Keitel.

'I had hoped to get it done before Maggie passed, and we weren't able to do that,' Whoopie explained. 'But they have they have the script now. So fingers are crossed.'

Last year in November, the EGOT winner also gave a previous update on the movie during an appearance on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon.

'We're having to make some readjustments because we just lost Maggie Smith, as you know. And so, we will get it done. We will get it done. It just is a shift,' Goldberg stated.

Whoopi's last appearance at the Oscars was nearly 10 years ago back in 2016 when she stepped onto the stage to present honorary awards.

While talking to the outlet, Whoopi also gave an update on the production of Sister Act 3 following Maggie Smith's passing last year in September 2024

Earlier this year in January, the TV personality unveiled her makeover during Paris Fashion Week (seen above) after taking weight loss drugs to aid in losing weight; at her heaviest she was 300lbs

Earlier this year in January, the TV personality unveiled her makeover during Paris Fashion Week after taking weight loss drugs to aid in losing 300 pounds.

Last year in March while on The View, she admitted to taking the weight loss drug Mounjaro to help her lose weight.

She also commented on the stigma of using weight loss drugs and stated that the 'key is to stop judging everybody.

'My weight has come and gone, and up and down, but it's never been an issue for me because I don't listen to what other people say about me so it has never been a problem.'

Whoopi added, 'But I think it's very hard for people to just know what a normal weight would be...Everyone has something to say but no one said, "How you doing?" Because it involves so many other things.'

The star further expressed, 'I always felt like me, and then I saw me and thought, "Oh, that's a lot of me." You have to take responsibility for yourself and see what's going on with your body.'

At one point, Goldberg also referenced to her 2022 film Till and revealed, 'I will tell you, you know, I weighed almost 300 pounds when I made Till.'

And while on The Kelly Clarkson Show in May 2024, the actress added that while filming the historical drama, 'a woman thought I was wearing a fat suit.'

Last year in March while on The View , she admitted to taking the weight loss drug Mounjaro to help her lose weight

'I'm doing that wonderful shot that works for folks who need some help and it's been really good for me,' The View host said. 'I've lost almost two people.'

Whoopi explained that before the remark had been made, she never thought much about how much she weighed.

'You're living your life and youre doing what you need to do and that's the last thing you're thinking about.'

She added, 'You say to people, "Did I always look like that?" When you realize it, you go "D**n," and everyone says, "Well, I thought you knew.'
Halle Berry stole the show on the red carpet of the Academy Awards, held at Hollywood's iconic Dolby Theatre on Sunday.

The 58-year-old radiated her ageless megawatt glamour in a skintight dress that showed off her astonishing figure to full advantage.

Her head-turning frock was covered in mirrors that caused it to dazzle under the lights as the former Bond girl paraded in front of the cameras.

For her latest night out, Halle - who became the first black woman to win best actress for Monster's Ball in 2002 - was dressed by Christian Siriano and wore jewelry by Pomellato.

She highlighted her luminously youthful complexion with makeup and wore her hair styled into a bob reminiscent of the 1960s.

Her astonishing look left fans agog, flocking to social media to exchange their impressions of how 'breathtaking' and 'stunning' she looked.

Halle Berry stole the show on the red carpet of the Academy Awards, held at Hollywood's iconic Dolby Theatre on Sunday

'Halle Berry is 58 years old. This is not normal,' one observer marveled on X, which was formerly known as Twitter, writing in Spanish.

'She looks sooo good! Halle Berry...yea she fine,' wrote another, as a third gushed: 'Halle Berry, looks absolutely STUNNING super A+'.

'WOW BREATHTAKING,' exclaimed another viewer on X, as another wrote in Portuguese that she was one of the 'icons of Oscar history.'

This year's Oscars are hosted by beloved former late-night host Conan O'Brien, who is compering the ceremony for the first time.

After his hiring was announced, the famously self-effacing comedian joked: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

Emilia Perez, the Spanish-language musical starring Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofia Gascon, leads the nominations with 13 nods including best picture.

Karla is nominated for best actress for her performance as a cartel chief who pretends to die in order to transition into a woman.

Her Oscars campaign was torpedoed by resurfaced old tweets in which Karla made controversial remarks on such subjects as George Floyd and Islam.

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

The 58-year-old radiated her ageless megawatt glamour in a skintight dress that showed off her astonishing figure to full advantage

For her latest night out, Halle - who became the first black woman to win best actress for Monster's Ball in 2002 - was dressed by Christian Siriano with jewelry by Pomellato

She highlighted her luminously youthful complexion with makeup and wore her hair styled into a bob reminiscent of the 1960s

Zoe is also nominated for best supporting actress, with Jacques Audriard also in the running for best director for his work on the picture.

The Brutalist, starring Adrien Brody as a Hungarian Jewish Holocaust survivor working as an architect in postwar America, is just behind Emilia Perez with 10 nods.

Adrien is nominated for best actor, as are Brady Corbet for best director, Guy Pearce for best supporting actor and Felicity Jones for best supporting actress.

Wicked is tied with The Brutalist with 10 nods, including best picture, best actress for Cynthia Erivo and best supporting actress for Ariana Grande.

Anora, Sean Baker's rollicking Palme d'Or winner from last year's Cannes Film Festival, is also competing for the best picture honor.

Its leading lady Mikey Madison is up for best actress for her role as a New York stripper, as is Russian actor Yura Borisov for best supporting actor.

Other best picture nominees include the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, starring Timothee Chalamet, who is in contention for best actor.

The drama Conclave about the election of a new Pope, the sci-fi epic Dune: Part Two and the Brazilian political film I'm Still Here are also up for best picture.

'She looks sooo good! Halle Berry...yea she fine,' wrote one, as a third gushed: 'Halle Berry, looks absolutely STUNNING super A+'.

So is last year's buzzy horror film The Substance, whose leading lady Demi Moore is nominated for best actress for the first time in her long and glamorous career.

Adrien was widely tipped to win best actor, until Timothee won the Screen Actors Guild Award last weekend in a surprise turn that has upset many predictions.

Best actress is a hazier category, with some predicting that Demi will win after the shower of acclaim she received for her comeback performance in The Substance.

Kieran Culkin seems likely to win best supporting actor for A Real Pain, written and directed by his co-star Jesse Eisenberg, given he has swept the awards circuit so far.

Zoe has also landed a number of wins on the awards circuit for best supporting actress, in a category that includes Ariana Grande as Glinda in Wicked and Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown.

Anora won best picture at both the Directors Guild Of America Awards and the Producers Guild Of America Awards, both of which are regarded as bellwethers for the Oscars, particularly taken together.
Get all Daily Mail Australia's latest MAFS stories on WhatsApp here

Carina Mirabile's relationship with her Married At First Sight groom Paul Antoine turned rocky this past week after it was revealed the Frenchman punched a hole in the door during a heated argument with his bride.

But the brunette beauty did her best to put the drama behind her as she dined with two male friends at swanky eatery Fred's in Paddington last Monday.

The digital marketing manager dressed-to-the-nines and appeared in good spirits at the long lunch.

The 31-year-old almost suffered a wardrobe malfunction in a daring burnt orange cowl neck frock under which she wore no bra.

Carina paired the floor-length dress with black high heels and a tiny quilted Chanel handbag.

She accessorised with several jewels, including a Van Cleefs & Arpels Vintage Alhambra bracelet and Cartier Juste un Clou bangle.

Married At First Sight Carina Mirabile almost exposed her chest in a very daring dress at a Sydney restaurant with two men last week

The digital marketing manager dressed-to-the-nines for the long lunch

Carina had her long dark locks down in a half-up half-down style and a perfect application of makeup, which came as no surprise as she was joined by her makeup artist and hair stylist.

The outing comes as Carina's MAFS partner Paul has come under fire for his 'toxic' and 'unacceptable' behaviour after he punched a hole in the bedroom door during a heated argument with Carina.

It has now been revealed he has sought professional help following his shock violent outburst on the show.

Following an uncomfortable commitment ceremony on Sunday night where he was called out for his behaviour by the show's relationship experts, Paul said he spoke to a psychologist.

'I had to talk to someone on the outside, a professional, to actually talk about it and find some sort of peace as I was so mad and angry at myself for reacting that way,' he told Nine.

'It was also sending the wrong message to Carina. I didn't want her to feel unsafe. That's the last thing that I would want.'

Paul's admission comes after he was put 'on notice' by the experts on Sunday night's episode.

The 31-year-old almost suffered a wardrobe malfunction in a daring burnt orange cowl neck frock under which she wore no bra

Carina paired the floor-length dress with black high heels and a tiny quilted Chanel handbag

She accessorised with several jewels, including a Van Cleefs & Arpels Vintage Alhambra bracelet

Mel Schilling , John Aitken and Alessandra Ramponella told him that he would be unable to continue in the experiments unless he got help for de-escalation strategies.

Doubling down on her sentiment expressed on Sunday night, Carina, 31, told Nine she wanted to put the incident behind her and Paul.

'It doesn't matter how much he can apologise and say sorry,' Carina explained.

'I wanted the relationship to work. I forgave and I wanted to move forward with him and leave that in the past, and get that reassurance from him that he wasn't going to do that in the future.'

Sunday's episode saw the experts confront Paul over his shocking wall-punching outburst.

The atmosphere was tense as relationship expert Alessandra wasted no time addressing the violent incident, demanding Paul explain himself.

Paul recounted the moment that led to his alarming reaction, explaining that Carina had joked about sleeping with someone associated with the music playing in their car.

Feeling 'disrespected' and 'embarrassed,' Paul admitted that when they returned to their apartment, he 'completely lost control' and lashed out, punching a hole in the door.

'I felt trapped, and I completely lost control,' he confessed.

Carina had her long dark locks down in a half-up half-down style and a perfect application of makeup,

Which came as no surprise as she was joined by her makeup artist and hair stylist

The friends chatted as they waited for an Uber outside of the eatery

Doubling down on her sentiment expressed on Sunday night, Carina, 31, told Nine she wanted to put the incident behind her and Paul

Alessandra was visibly unimpressed.

'It does not matter how disrespected you felt,' she shot back.

'You do not punch walls. You do not punch floors. Period. Full stop. That intimidates.'

Despite the confronting nature of the discussion, Carina downplayed the seriousness of the incident, brushing it off as an emotional reaction.

Her response prompted an immediate reaction from Mel Schilling.

'This is not normal behaviour, sweetheart,' she warned.

'This is not how you show love. This is deeply troubling.'

Fellow expert John Aiken backed her up, calling Paul's behaviour 'toxic, inappropriate, and unacceptable'.

With the panel visibly furious, Paul was then put on the spot, forced to explain why he should be allowed to stay in the experiment.

The experts ultimately allowed Paul to continue in the experiment but made it crystal clear that he was 'on notice'.

Sunday's episode saw the experts confront Paul over his shocking wall-punching outburst

The atmosphere was tense as relationship expert Alessandra Rampolla (l) wasted no time addressing the violent incident, demanding Paul explain himself. Also pictured, Mel Schilling and John Aitken

The experts ultimately allowed Paul to continue in the experiment but made it crystal clear that he was 'on notice'

Following Sunday's commitment ceremony, Carina defended her groom in a statement to Daily Mail Australia.

'Like, I feel like he's 100% not a DV person and he is a good human and egg and big heart, she said.

'Him and I are so similar and just naive with a YES YES mentality... I want people to know that's not him.'

She also reassured fans that production had provided adequate support for all contestants.

'If I felt unsafe, I would have walked away, but production implemented good duty of care and regulations/advice and offered us both all the help we needed and still do  you know!

In a statement, Channel Nine said they are providing support to the couple.

'Nine and Endemol Shine Australia has treated this matter extremely seriously,' the statement read.

'Our first priority at all times has been the wellbeing and safety of the participants and after extensive consultation with Carina, she wanted to remain in the experiment with Paul. We continue to provide support for Carina and Paul.'

The statement also outlined the level of support offered to participants.

'All participants have access to the show psychologist and welfare resources during filming, during broadcast and once the program has ended,' it continued.

"Nine also have an additional service for participants should they like or need further individual and confidential psychological support.

'This service gives participants access to clinicians to support those involved in the program in relation to their experiences. This service is available to all participants for as long as they need it, it does not end.'

If this article has raised any issues, help is available at 1800RESPECT

.
Kieran Culkin has taken home his first Academy Award at this year's star-studded ceremony. As a reward, he reminded his wife of the wholesome promise she made to him years ago if he ever won the coveted Oscar trophy.

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, kicked off on Sunday, March 2 at 7pm EST/4pm PST, as Hollywood's biggest stars descended upon the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, California.

The Succession actor, 42, was among the list of acclaimed actors and actresses nominated for their performances this year.

While accepting the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in A Real Pain, Culkin admitted that his wife, Jazz Charton, agreed to give him a fourth child if he ever won an Academy Award.

'About a year ago, I was on a stage like this and I very stupidly, publicly said that I want a third kid from her because she said if I won the award she would give me the kid,' Culkin said on-stage while holding his Oscar statuette.

'Turns out she said that because she didn't think I was gonna win,' he jokingly shared.

'She goes, "Oh god, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid." And I turned to her and I said, "Really, I want four,"' Culkin recounted to the audience.

At that moment, he recalled Charton saying: 'I will give you four when you win an Oscar.'

Kieran Culkin won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain

The Succession star used his acceptance speech to remind his wife, Jazz Charton, that she promised to give him four children if he ever won the Oscar

'I'm really sorry I did this again and let's get cracking on those kids. What do you say?' Culkin told his wife

Culkin then took the opportunity to remind Charton of her promise, pointing out that he has 'not brought it up once until just now.'

'But I just have this to say to you Jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith,' he joked. 'No pressure, I love you, I'm really sorry I did this again and let's get cracking on those kids. What do you say?'

The camera cut to Charton in the crowd, as she was seen laughing at her husband's candid acceptance speech and seemingly agreed to follow through on her promise.

Back in 2012, the 36-year-old writer met Culkin at a bar in New York City. Charton, who was born in London and raised by a single mom, started dating Culkin shortly after their first meeting.

One year later, the pair eloped in Iowa while on a road trip.

These days, the couple are proud parents to five-year-old daughter Kinsey and three-year-old son Wilder Wolf.

Culkin was nominated in the best supporting actor category alongside Yura Borisov for Anora, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong for The Apprentice.

Receiving his first Oscar nomination and win, Culkin also won at this year's SAG Awards, Critics Choice Awards and the Golden Globes.

Culkin and Charton walked the Oscars red carpet together on Sunday evening outside the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles

The couple, who were married in 2013, are already parents to daughter Kinsey, five, and son Wilder Wolf, three

The award marked Culkin's first Oscar nomination and win. He also won at this year's SAG Awards, Critics Choice Awards and the Golden Globes for his performance in A Real Pain

The Home Alone star previously begged his 'beautiful wife' Charton for more kids at the 2024 Emmy Awards.

'Thank you for sharing your life with me and for giving me two amazing kids,' he said during his acceptance speech at the time.

'And Jazz, I want more. You said maybe, if I win,' he added.
Eagle-eyed fans have hilariously roasted ABC after they made an embarrassing blunder in their Oscars red carpet coverage on Sunday.

As one one of the glamorous actresses made her way across the red carpet across the Dolby Theatre, the network declared Rachel Zegler had arrived.

There was, however, a slight issue - the celebrity in question was not in fact Rachel Zegler, star of the new live-action remake of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs.

In fact, the woman being shown onscreen was comedian Rachel Sennott, known for starring in such movies as Shiva Baby and Bottoms.

Sennott was draped a strapless purple sequined gown, while Zegler flaunted her taut midriff in a sheer off-white corset dress.

Fans reacted with hilarity on social media, joking: 'Rachel Zegler stuns!!!' and: 'I LOVE RACHEL ZEGLER!!!!!' over images of the other Rachel.

Eagle-eyed fans have hilariously roasted ABC after they made an embarrassing blunder in their Oscars coverage - confusing Rachel Sennott (left) for Rachel Zegler (right)

This year's Oscars are hosted by beloved former late-night host Conan O'Brien, who is compering the ceremony for the first time.

After his hiring was announced, the famously self-effacing comedian joked: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

Emilia Perez, the Spanish-language musical starring Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldana and Karla Sofia Gascon, leads the nominations with 13 nods including best picture.

Karla is nominated for best actress for her performance as a cartel chief who pretends to die in order to transition into a woman.

Her Oscars campaign was torpedoed by resurfaced old tweets in which Karla made controversial remarks on such subjects as George Floyd and Islam.

Zoe is also nominated for best supporting actress, with Jacques Audriard also in the running for best director for his work on the picture.

The Brutalist, starring Adrien Brody as a Hungarian Jewish Holocaust survivor working as an architect in postwar America, is just behind Emilia Perez with 10 nods.

Adrien is nominated for best actor, as are Brady Corbet for best director, Guy Pearce for best supporting actor and Felicity Jones for best supporting actress.

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Sennott was draped a strapless purple sequined gown, while Zegler (pictured) flaunted her taut midriff in a sheer off-white corset dress

Fans reacted with hilarity on social media, joking: 'Rachel Zegler stuns!!!' and: 'I LOVE RACHEL ZEGLER!!!!!' over images of the other Rachel

Wicked is tied with The Brutalist with 10 nods, including best picture, best actress for Cynthia Erivo and best supporting actress for Ariana Grande.

Anora, Sean Baker's rollicking Palme d'Or winner from last year's Cannes Film Festival, is also competing for the best picture honor.

Its leading lady Mikey Madison is up for best actress for her role as a New York stripper, as is Russian actor Yura Borisov for best supporting actor.

Other best picture nominees include the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, starring Timothee Chalamet, who is in contention for best actor.

The drama Conclave about the election of a new Pope, the sci-fi epic Dune: Part Two and the Brazilian political film I'm Still Here are also up for best picture.

So is last year's buzzy horror film The Substance, whose leading lady Demi Moore is nominated for best actress for the first time in her long and glamorous career.

Adrien was widely tipped to win best actor, until Timothee won the Screen Actors Guild Award last weekend in a surprise turn that has upset many predictions.

Best actress is a hazier category, with some predicting that Demi will win after the shower of acclaim she received for her comeback performance in The Substance.

Kieran Culkin seems likely to win best supporting actor for A Real Pain, written and directed by his co-star Jesse Eisenberg, given he has swept the awards circuit so far.

Zoe has also landed a number of wins on the awards circuit for best supporting actress, in a category that includes Ariana Grande as Glinda in Wicked and Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown.

Anora won best picture at both the Directors Guild Of America Awards and the Producers Guild Of America Awards, both of which are regarded as bellwethers for the Oscars, particularly taken together.
Selena Gomez and her Emilia Perez co-star Karla Sofia Gascon went viral for their awkward exchange at the Oscars - after the latter's tweet scandal.

Karla, who hails from Spain, is nominated for best actress for her performance as a cartel chief who pretends to die in order to transition into a woman.

Her nod made history as the first time a trans woman has been in competition for the prize - but just after it was announced, her Hollywood career was upended.

The Oscars campaign was torpedoed by resurfaced old tweets in which Karla made controversial remarks on such subjects as George Floyd and Islam.

Amidst the furor, Karla kept away from the awards show circuit, and until Sunday the question hung in the air of whether she would attend the Oscars at all.

In the event, she skipped the red carpet but attended the actual ceremony - and when she met up with Selena again, fans zeroed in on them like hawks.

Selena Gomez and her Emilia Perez co-star Karla Sofia Gascon went viral for their awkward exchange at the Oscars - after the latter's tweet scandal

The two actresses were in adjacent rows in the audience, and at one point they both stood up to give each other a peck on the cheek over the chairs.

Their brief exchange of pleasantries came off as so uncomfortable to fans that a joke about it has now become a runaway hit on X, formerly Twitter.

Posting a picture of the cheek-kiss, a fan joked that Karla was whispering to Selena: 'The bomb will set off in 45 minutes. Leave the venue in a few.'

Less than two hours after being uploaded, the quip had received more than 23,000 likes, and was flooded with replies from people reacting with hilarity.

Some fans were infuriated at the kiss, with one writing: 'Selena should stop talking with her. Karla is disgusting after everything she did!'

During his rollicking opening monologue, Oscars host Conan O'Brien made a joke about Karla's tweet controversy to her face.

He observed that best picture nominee Anora used 'the f-word 479 times,' then vamped: 'That's three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascon's publicist!'

Karla responded with a tight smile, as Conan continued by quipping: 'Karla, if you are gonna tweet about the Oscars my name is Jimmy Kimmel.'

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Karla has largely avoided the awards show circuit and skipped the red carpet at the Oscars, where Selena is seen posing in support of the film

During his rollicking opening monologue, Oscars host Conan O'Brien made a joke about Karla's tweet controversy to her face, prompting a tight smile from her

The exchange of pleasantries drew a polarized reaction on social media, where some viewers saw the funny side and others reacted with revulsion

Just after Karla's nomination was announced last month, Muslim writer Sarah Hagi dug up a series of old social media posts by the actress.

One posted in November 2020 read: 'I'm sorry. Is it just my impression or is there more muslims in Spain? Every time I go to pick up my daughter from school there are more women with their hair covered and their skirts down to their heels. Next year instead of English we'll have to teach Arabic.'

In September 2020, she posted an image of a Muslim family eating at a restaurant, where the wife was in a full black burqa, along with a sarcastic comment.

'Islam is marvelous, without any machismo,' she wrote. 'Women are respected, and when they are so respected they are left with a little squared hole on their faces for their eyes to be visible and their mouths, but only if she behaves. Although they dress this way for their own enjoyment. How DEEPLY DISGUSTING OF HUMANITY.'

She also tweeted about the Black Lives Matter riots sparked by George Floyd's death in police custody, in another post that drew brickbats.

'I really think that very few people ever cared about George Floyd, a drug addict swindler, but his death has served to once again demonstrate that there are people who still consider black people to be monkeys without rights and consider policemen to be assassins. They are both wrong,' wrote Karla.

In one tweet from 2022, Karla also took aim at Selena, making fun of the rumors that she was feuding with her ex Justin Bieber's wife Hailey Bieber.

Karla, who hails from Spain, is nominated for best actress for her performance as a cartel chief who pretends to die in order to transition into a woman; pictured in the film

'She's a rich rat who plays the poor bastard whenever she can and will never stop bothering her ex-boyfriend and his wife,' Karla joked.

Social media erupted in outrage, with reports flying that Netflix had begun distancing themselves from Karla to avoid damaging the film's other awards prospects.

Emilia Perez has evidently managed to avoid being overshadowed by the row, as Zoe Saldana has swept the awards show circuit.

She won best supporting actress at the Oscars, tearfully thanking her family but notably refraining from making any mention of Karla.
An Oscar-winning director was heckled as he delivered an impassioned critique of Donald Trump's foreign policy relating to the Israel-Palestine crisis during his acceptance speech on stage.

Basel Adra gripped the Oscar for Best Documentary for his film No Other Land, which captured the plight of Palestinians throughout the ongoing war with Israel.

But as he slammed 'this administration's foreign policy' for blocking the path to peace, a member of the crowd shouted 'get rid of Hamas', according to a Vulture reporter who heard the interaction.

Adra is a Palestinian activist who created a film documenting how he made sense of the destruction of his homeland in West Bank alongside Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham.

Speaking to the crowd of Hollywood bigwigs, Abraham said: 'When I look at Basel, I see my brother. But we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and Basel is under military law that destroys his life and he cannot control.

'There is a different path. A political solution without ethnic supremacy with national rights for both of our people... the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path.

'Why?' he asked as the crowd cheered.

'Can't you see that we are intertwined, that my people can be truly safe if Basel's people are truly free... There is another way. It is not too late.'

Adra is a Palestinian activist who created a film documenting how he made sense of the destruction of his homeland in West Bank alongside Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham

Basel Adra gripped the Oscar for Best Documentary for his film No Other Land, which captured the plight of Palestinians througout the ongoing war with Israel

More than 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched strikes in the wake of the October 7 Hamas terror attack

Adra was equally impassioned about the plight of Gazans during his speech, expressing his desire for his two month old daughter to grow up in a safer world than he did.

'Two months ago I became a father, and my hope to my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I'm living now,' he said.

'The harsh reality we have been enduring for decades and still resist.

'We call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.'

Despite now being an Oscar winning film and enjoying buzz for several months leading up to the big night, No Other Land has failed to secure an American distribution contract.

Trump shocked the world when he revealed he had ambitions to turn Gaza into the Riviera of the Middle East.

'I'm committed to buying and owning Gaza,' he said in February.

In his vision, US reconstruction would create thousands of jobs and spare Palestinians the pain and expense of rebuilding once again.

Trump shocked the world when he revealed he had ambitions to turn Gaza into the Riviera of the Middle East

An Oscar award winning director was heckled as he delivered an impassioned critique of Donald Trump 's foreign policy relating to the Israel-Palestine crisis during his acceptance speech on stage.

He claimed his plans were based on humanitarian ideals, but has sparked outcry from his critics and foreign leaders who say it amounts to 'ethnic cleansing' of the two million Palestinians who call Gaza home.

Control of the territory has been one of the key flashpoints in the Arab-Israeli conflict, triggering waves of violence and spreading instability through the region for decades.

More than 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched strikes in the wake of the October 7 Hamas terror attack.

'If we can get a beautiful area to resettle people, permanently, in nice homes where they can be happy and not be shot and not be killed and not be knifed to death like what's happening in Gaza,' Trump said.
Actress Zoe Saldana was moved to tears after winning her first Oscar for Netflix's Emilia Perez, delivering an emotional speech.

The 46-year-old actress beat out Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown), Ariana Grande (Wicked), Felicity Jones (The Brutalist) and Isabella Rossellini (Conclave) for Best Supporting Actress for playing Rita in the film.

She was driven to tears even on her way up to the stage, accepting the award from last year's Best Supporting Actress winner - DaVine Joy Randolph from The Holdovers.

While she was clearly stunned to win, the tearful actress managed to thank many who helped her along this journey.

However, many noticed that one person she didn't thank was her controversial co-star, Karla Sofia Gascon, who is also up for Best Actress.

Still, the snub wasn't terribly surprising, since Saldana didn't thank Gascon after winning a Critics Choice Award last month.

Actress Zoe Saldana was moved to tears after winning her first Oscar for Netflix 's Emilia Perez, delivering an emotional speech.

However, many noticed that one person she didn't thank was her controversial co-star, Karla Sofia Gascon, who is also up for Best Actress

Still, the snub wasn't terribly surprising, since Saldana didn't thank Gascon after winning a Critics Choice Award last month .

Saldana first thanked her mother, Asalia, adding, 'Mami! My mom is here! My whole family is here.'

She added, 'I am floored by this honor, thank you to the academy, for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita, and talking about powerful women, my fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward, thank you so much.'

She then thanked her director, stating, 'Jacques, you are a beloved character in my life. Thank you for taking the interest, thank you for being so curious about these women to tell this story.'

Saldana added she is 'sharing this award' with her cast and crew of Emilia Perez, while also thanking Netflix's Ted Sarandos and other executives.

She also thanked her, 'kick a** team at CAA, my amazing managers and the lawyers and the powerful ladies at the lead company, thank you for always, always answering my emails late night.'

'To my mom, my dad, my sisters, everything brave, outrageous and good that I've ever done in my life is because of you. Thank you so much. And to my husband, with that beautiful hair, you're just -- the biggest honor of my life is being your partner. You hung the moon and our beautiful perfect sons, they fill our skies every night with stars,' she added.

'My grandmother came to this country in 1961 -- I am a proud child of immigrant parents. With dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I am the first American on Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last,' she added.

'The fact that I'm getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish, my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted, this is for my grandmother. Thank you so much. Thank you,' Saldana concluded.

Saldana first thanked her mother, Asalia, adding, 'Mami! My mom is here! My whole family is here'

She added, 'I am floored by this honor, thank you to the academy, for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita, and talking about powerful women, my fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward, thank you so much'

'To my mom, my dad, my sisters, everything brave, outrageous and good that I've ever done in my life is because of you. Thank you so much. And to my husband, with that beautiful hair, you're just -- the biggest honor of my life is being your partner. You hung the moon and our beautiful perfect sons, they fill our skies every night with stars,' she added

Oscar winners 2025 full list - see who received honors for this year's Academy Awards Best Picture Anora - WINNER The Brutalist A Complete Unknown Conclave Dune: Part Two Emilia Perez Im Still Here Nickel Boys The Substance Wicked Anora was the biggest winner of the night as Mikey Madison earned Best Actress Best Director Jacques Audiard  Emilia Perez Sean Baker  Anora - WINNER Brady Corbet  The Brutalist Coralie Fargeat  The Substance James Mangold  A Complete Unknown Actress in a Leading Role Cynthia Erivo  Wicked Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez Mikey Madison  Anora - WINNER Demi Moore  The Substance Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here Actor in a Leading Role Adrien Brody  The Brutalist - WINNER Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown Colman Domingo  Sing Sing Ralph Fiennes  Conclave Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice Actress in a Supporting Role Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown Ariana Grande  Wicked Felicity Jones  The Brutalist Isabella Rossellini  Conclave Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez - WINNER Zoe Saldana was recognized in the Best Supporting Actress category for Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role Yura Borisov  Anora Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain - WINNER Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown Guy Pearce  The Brutalist Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice Animated Feature Film Flow - WINNER Inside Out 2 Memoir of a Snail Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl The Wild Robot Cinematography The Brutalist  Lol Crawley - WINNER Dune: Part Two  Greig Fraser Emilia Perez  Paul Guilhaume Maria  Ed Lachman Nosferatu  Jarin Blaschke Original Screenplay Anora  Sean Baker - WINNER The Brutalist  Brady Corbet & Mona Fastvold A Real Pain  Jesse Eisenberg September 5  Moritz Binder, Tim Fehlbaum; co-Written by Alex David The Substance  Coralie Fargeat Sean Baker earned three individual honors for Anora in addition to Best Picture Adapted Screenplay A Complete Unknown  James Mangold and Jay Cocks Conclave  Peter Straughan - WINNER Emilia Perez  Jacques Audiard with Thomas Bidegain, Lea Mysius and Nicolas Livecchi Nickel Boys  RaMell Ross & Joslyn Barnes Sing Sing  Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar; Story by Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, John 'Divine G' Whitfield Achievement in Production Design The Brutalist Conclave Dune: Part Two Nosferatu Wicked - Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales - WINNER Achievement in Sound A Complete Unknown Dune: Part Two - WINNER Emilia Perez Wicked The Wild Robot Dune: Part Two won Best Achievement in Sound as Gareth John, Richard King, and Ron Bartlett are seen left to right Original Song El Mal - Emilia Perez - Clement Ducol, Camille, and Jacques Audiard - WINNER The Journey - The Six Triple Eight Like A Bird - Sing Sing Mi Camino - Emilia Perez Never Too Late - Elton John: Never Too Late Original Score The Brutalist  Daniel Blumberg - WINNER Conclave  Volker Bertelmann Emilia Perez  Clement Ducol and Camille Wicked  John Powell and Stephen Schwartz The Wild Robot  Kris Bowers Live-Action Short Film A Lien Anuja Im Not a Robot - WINNER The Last Ranger The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent Animated Short Film Beautiful Men In the Shadow of the Cypress - WINNER Magic Candies Wander to Wonder Yuck! Documentary Feature Film Black Box Diaries No Other Land - WINNER Porcelain War Soundtrack to a Coup dEtat Sugarcane No Other Land took home Documentary Feature Film as Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, and Yuval Abraham are seen left to right Documentary Short Film Death by Numbers I Am Ready, Warden Incident Instruments of a Beating Heart The Only Girl in the Orchestra - WINNER International Feature Film Im Still Here (Brazil) - WINNER The Girl With the Needle (Denmark) Emilia Perez (France) The Seed of the Sacred Fig (Germany) Flow (Latvia) Makeup and Hairstyling A Different Man Emilia Perez Nosferatu The Substance - Pierre Olivier Persin, Stephanie Guillon, and Marilyne Scarselli - WINNER Wicked Achievement in Costume Design A Complete Unknown  Arianne Phillips Conclave  Lisy Christl Gladiator II  Janty Yates and Dave Crossman Nosferatu  Linda Muir Wicked  Paul Tazewell - WINNER Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design Achievement in Film Editing Anora  Sean Baker - WINNER The Brutalist  David Jancso Conclave  Nick Emerson Emilia Perez  Juliette Welfling Wicked  Myron Kerstein Visual Effects Alien: Romulus Better Man Dune: Part Two - WINNER Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes Wicked Advertisement

The snub came after Gascon's earlier social media messages came to light from 2020 and 2021 that were later deleted.

The posts included comments about Muslims in Spain, adding they would have to teach Arabic at Spanish schools instead of English.

She also tweeted about George Floyd, stating, 'I really think that very few people ever cared about George Floyd, a drug addict swindler, but his death has served to once again demonstrate that there are people who still consider black people to be monkeys Without rights and consider policemen to be assassins, she posted. Theyre all wrong.

Gascon has since deleted the tweets and apologized, with Saldana responding to the controversy in early February.

'Im sad. Time and time again, thats the word because that is the sentiment that has been living in my chest since everything happened, Saldana says. Im also disappointed. I cant speak for other peoples actions. All I can attest to is my experience, and never in a million years did I ever believe that we would be here,' Saldana said.


Taylor Swift's ex-boyfriend Joe Alwyn wouldn't shake off a chance to play 007.

The English actor, 34, who past dated the Grammy-winning artist, 35, for more than six years, was asked by Variety on the red carpet of the 97th Academy Awards if he would be interested into stepping into the shoes of the legendary cinematic character James Bond.

Alwyn was asked, 'Do you want to play James Bond?' to which he answered, 'Oh, wow - who wouldn't throw their hat in the ring? You know?'

Alwyn then said in jest that he would take the role of the stalwart MI6 agent 'if you're offering;' and as far as preferring his martinis shaken or stirred, the actor said, 'I like both - I do, I do.'

The part has been vacant since Daniel Craig, 57, exited the franchise in the wake of the 2021 motion picture No Time to Die.

Producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, who are sister and brother, have since transferred creative control of the character to Amazon MGM Studios.

Actor Joe Alwyn, 34, wouldn't shake off a chance to play the legendary cinematic character James Bond. Pictured Sunday at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood

Swift, 35, and Alwyn, 34, pictured at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards

'Every time we cast a new actor, the films change ... it's the excitement of a new Bond, a new direction,' Wilson said, according to People.

Alwyn, who played the role of Harry Lee Van Buren in The Brutalist said that making the feted film was like a dream, and that costar Adrien Brody - who took home his second Best Actor prize Sunday, was 'amazing to work with.'

'I've been - obviously, like so many people - a fan of his for so long,' Alwyn said. 'So to share a scene with him and work with him for that month was really special. And I think he's just unbelievable in the film.'

After more than six years with the superstar songstress, the pair parted ways in June of 2023.

'I would hope that anyone and everyone can empathize and understand the difficulties that come with the end of a long, loving, fully committed relationship of over six-and-a-half years,' the actor last summer told The Sunday Times.

He added, That is a hard thing to navigate. What is unusual and abnormal in this situation is that, one week later, its suddenly in the public domain and the outside world is able to weigh in.'

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Joe Alwyn on whether or not he would be interested in playing James Bond: "Who wouldn't throw their hat in the ring?" | #Oscars pic.twitter.com/rrqw1OOVAN  Variety (@Variety) March 2, 2025

Alwyn was asked, 'Do you want to play James Bond ?' to which he answered, 'Oh, wow - who wouldn't throw their hat in the ring? You know?'

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez.

Brody triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night. The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Ethan Slater's interview with Access Hollywood was branded a 'hard watch' by some viewers after he answered a question about his girlfriend, Ariana Grande.

While on the carpet, he chatted with the outlet, and was asked about Grande, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Wicked.

'How's your girl feeling tonight?' the reporter asked the star, which was captured in a clip posted to TikTok.

In response, he chuckled and said, 'Oh, you mean Ariana? She's doing great.'

'She's so excited, we're all so excited, I can't believe that I get to be in the Oscars, this is amazing,' he added.

The couple have been dating since the summer of 2023, but it was later alleged that they were involved romantically for months before, having grown close while on the set of Wicked.

Grande was previously married to Dalton Gomez, and Slater to Lilly Jay, who he shares a two-year-old son with.

Jay had moved to London, where Slater was filming Wicked, with their newborn at the time.

Ethan Slater 's interview with Access Hollywood was branded a 'hard watch' by some viewers after he answered a question about his girlfriend, Ariana Grande

While on the carpet, he chatted with the outlet, and was asked about Grande, who was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Wicked

However, as the two have now been linked together for quite some time, it still seems that their relationship doesn't go over quite too well with fans.

In the comments section of the TikTok, many admitted that it was a hard interview to watch.

'Hard watch, thanks,' one person wrote.

'What other girl does he have lmao,' someone else typed.

'Hard watch, they didnt sit next to or near each other at the Oscars,' another pointed out.

One user commented, 'Hey this relationship isnt cute!'

'Like who he think they was talking about fr,' a second person wrote.

In an essay for The Cut in December, Slater's ex-wife reflected on navigating life as a single mom and the end of her more than decade-long relationship.

In the comments section of the TikTok, many admitted that it was a hard interview to watch.

'Motherhood, I have learned, fills your time but not your mind,' she wrote.

'In the countless hours I spend rocking my son to sleep, pushing his stroller, marveling at his sweaty little hands grasping a crayon, I work diligently on my private project of accepting the sudden public downfall of my marriage.'

She continued: 'This, I tell myself, is nothing to be ashamed of and nothing to hide.'

Jay also reflected how nobody 'one gets married thinking they'll get divorced, in the same way we don't board a plane expecting to crash.'

'But I really never thought I would get divorced. Especially not just after giving birth to my first child and especially not in the shadow of my husband's new relationship with a celebrity,' Jay noted, alluding to his relationship with Grande.

Despite their split, she still praised Slater for being a wonderful co-parent as she stated that while their 'partnership has changed' their 'parenthood has not.'
Morgan Freeman paid an emotional tribute to Gene Hackman during the 2025 Oscars In Memoriam segment on Sunday - days after the icon's death aged 95.

Freeman, 87, who starred alongside double Oscar winner Hackman in Under Suspicion and Unforgiven, lauded his friend and co-star as he took to the stage.

The bodies of Oscar-winner Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 64, were found partially mummified at their $3.3 million Santa Fe mansion, with pills strewn in their bathroom on Wednesday. Their causes of death remain a mystery.

Freeman said: 'Well, this week, our community lost a giant, and I lost a dear friend, Gene Hackman. I had the pleasure of working alongside Gene on two films, Unforgiven and Under suspicion.

'And like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer, a man whose gifts elevated everyone's work. He received two Oscars, but more importantly, he won the hearts of film lovers all over the world.

'Gene always said, "I don't think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work."

Morgan Freeman paid an emotional tribute to Gene Hackman during the 2025 Oscars In Memoriam segment on Sunday - days after the icon's death aged 95

The bodies of Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 64, were found partially mummified at their Santa Fe mansion. Their causes of death remain a mystery.[Gene and Betsy in 2003]

'I think I speak for us all when I say, Gene, you will be remembered for that, and so much more. Rest in peace, my friend.'

Freeman and Gene acted together in the 1992 classic film, which earned the late actor his second Oscar award.

Eight years later, they once again joined forces on 2000 thriller, Under Suspicion  one if his final films before stepping away from Hollywood in 2004.

David Lynch, Maggie Smith, Donald Sutherland, Shelley Duvall, Gena Rowlings, James Earl Jones, Dick Pope, Jeff Baena, Bob Newhart, Kris Kristofferson, M Emmet Walsh, Robert Towne, Joan Plowright and Teri Garr were also honored.

However Michelle Trachtenberg, who died last week aged 39 shortly after undergoing a liver transplant, was not a part of the segment, leading to mass outrage online.

The bodies of the actor and his wife was reportedly found with bloating on their face and signs of mummification in their limbs, with pills strewn nearby. One of their three dogs, a German Shepherd, was also found deceased while the other two were roaming around the property.

According to an official's search warrant, 'the death of the two deceased individuals to be suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation.'

On Friday, Santa Fe officials claimed that data from Genes pacemaker indicated its last recorded activity was on February 17, leading investigators to believe that was the date of his passing.

While toxicology reports are still pending, the medical examiner confirmed that both individuals tested negative for carbon monoxide exposure. The local Sheriff's Department has said they do not believe foul play is involved.

The French Connection star, who had a net worth of approximately $80M, spent the last two decades away from the spotlight. After retiring from the industry in 2004, he left Hollywood behind, trading the glamour of the City of Angels for a peaceful life in New Mexico  where he had lived until his passing.

During a now eerie interview with CNN in 2004, the late actor confessed that he was afraid of ever loosing his life as he wanted to be a provider for his family.

Freeman and Gene acted together in the 1992 classic film, Unforgiven - which won Hackman his second Oscar

Freeman, 87, who starred alongside double Oscar winner Hackman in Under Suspicion and Unforgiven, lauded his friend and co-star as he took to the stage

The In Memoriam segment began with a tribute to the star

Hackman's longtime friend and Unforgiven co-star Clint Eastwood paid tribute to the actor last week following his shock death aged 95 - pictured at the 1993 Oscars

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

'I try to take care of myself,' he told the outlet at the time. 'I don't have a lot of fears, I have the normal fear of passing away.

'I guess we all think about that, especially when you get to be a certain age. I want to make sure that my wife and my family are taken care of. Other than that, I don't have a lot of fears.'

The Superman actor had three children from a previous marriage, Christopher Allen, 65 and Elizabeth Jean, 63, as well as Leslie Anne, 58.

According to an official's search warrant, 'the death of the two deceased individuals to be suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation.'

On Friday, Santa Fe officials claimed that data from Genes pacemaker indicated its last recorded activity was on February 17, leading investigators to believe that was the date of his passing.

While toxicology reports are still pending, the medical examiner confirmed that both individuals tested negative for carbon monoxide exposure. The local Sheriff's Department has said they do not believe foul play is involved.

The French Connection star, who had a net worth of approximately $80M, spent the last two decades away from the spotlight. After retiring from the industry in 2004, he left Hollywood behind, trading the glamour of the City of Angels for a peaceful life in New Mexico  where he had lived until his passing.

During a now eerie interview with CNN in 2004, the late actor confessed that he was afraid of ever loosing his life as he wanted to be a provider for his family.

Gene seen with wife Betsy and his two daughters Leslie and Elizabeth in October 1996

'I try to take care of myself,' he told the outlet at the time. 'I don't have a lot of fears, I have the normal fear of passing away.

'I guess we all think about that, especially when you get to be a certain age. I want to make sure that my wife and my family are taken care of. Other than that, I don't have a lot of fears.'

The Superman actor had three children from a previous marriage, Christopher Allen, 65 and Elizabeth Jean, 63, as well as Leslie Anne, 58.
Demi Moore fans are furious after the star didn't receive an Oscar win for Best Actress on Sunday - with the honor going to much younger starlet Mikey Madison for her role in Anora.

The Ghost actress, 62, was a favorite to win after garnering other accolades for her performance as Elisabeth Sparkle in the body horror film The Substance.

Earlier this year, Moore garnered her very first Oscar nomination - despite her decades-long career which began in the 1980s.

Back in January, Moore - who stunned in a sparkling silver gown on the red carpet - garnered a Golden Globe win for Best Actress and later received a Critics Choice and SAG Award.

Towards the end of the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, Emma Stone took to the stage to present the award for the Best Actress category - with Madison, 25, eventually scoring the big win.

Social media users quickly jumped to X to share their thoughts over the moment, with one penning, 'Demi moore should have won that award, Robbed #Oscars2025 #Oscars.'

Demi Moore, 62, fans have been left heartbroken after the star didn't receive an Oscar win for Best Actress on Sunday - with the honor going to Mikey Madison for her role in Anora

Towards the end of the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, Emma Stone took to the stage to present the award for the Best Actress category - with Madison, 25, eventually scoring the big win

The Ghost actress was a favorite to win after garnering other accolades this year for her performance as Elisabeth Sparkle in the body horror film The Substance

Fans noted the parallels between Demi's snub and the plot her her film, The Substance

'Demi Moore's Oscar speech that we will never hear.. #Oscars,' another wrote, while a fan added, 'Demi Moore lost WTF? You're going to have a lot of horror fans pissed.'

Another shared, 'DEMI MOORE I WILL AVENGE YOU #Oscars,' and one penned, 'Wow! Mikey Madison won the award for best actress at the #Oscars. That's a surprise. Demi Moore was the big favorite.'

'Yuuup. Mikey Madison was a surprise. Demi Moore had won pretty much evert major award leading up to the Oscars. Honestly a surprise lol,' one tweeted.

Others referenced to the premise of The Substance, which follows, 'A fading celebrity who takes a black-market drug: a cell-replicating substance that temporarily creates a younger, better version of herself,' per IMDB.

One shared, 'Mikey Madison winning over Demi Moore is a very Substance-y twist. #Oscars.'

'Demi Moore losing to Mikey Madison is basically the plot of The Substance,' another shared, while one added, 'Hollywood rewarding the young female actress while ignoring an incredible veteran (Fernanda Torres or Demi Moore) is the reason why a movie like The Substance is relevant to our society.'

One X user referenced to Hulu's livestream of the ceremony glitching and typed out, 'Hulu shut off cause they couldn't bear to see us watch Demi Moore lose. #Oscars.'

'The way it was my draft for congratulatory tweet for Demi Moore because I was convinced that she will win,' another penned.

Social media users quickly jumped to X to share their thoughts over the moment, with one penning, 'Demi moore should have won that award, Robbed #Oscars2025 #Oscars'

'Demi Moore's Oscar speech that we will never hear.. #Oscars,' another wrote, while a fan added, 'Demi Moore lost WTF? You're going to have a lot of horror fans pissed'

Another shared, 'DEMI MOORE I WILL AVENGE YOU #Oscars,' and one penned, 'Wow! Mikey Madison won the award for best actress at the #Oscars. That's a surprise. Demi Moore was the big favorite'

'Yuuup. Mikey Madison was a surprise. Demi Moore had won pretty much evert major award leading up to the Oscars. Honestly a surprise lol,' one tweeted

Another shared, 'Mikey Madison winning over Demi Moore is a very Substance-y twist. #Oscars'

One X user referenced to Hulu's livestream of the ceremony glitching and typed out, 'Hulu shut off cause they couldn't bear to see us watch Demi Moore lose. #Oscars'

'The way it was my draft for congratulatory tweet for Demi Moore because I was convinced that she will win,' another penned

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

A fan wrote, 'Happy for Mikey but Demi Moore deserved best actress SO MUCH #Oscars,' and another added, 'Demi Moore. Legend. Icon. I'm so sorry.'

'Demi Moore could've made history for the horror community tonight but once again the oscars continue to disrespect horror films,' one social media user shared.

Another X user typed out, 'Can't believe I stayed up all night to watch Demi Moore not win #Oscars.'

The Best Actress category during the ceremony also included Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Fernanda Torres (I'm Still Here) and Karla Sofia Gascon (Emilia Perez).

The Substance was nominated for a total of five Academy Awards: Best Actress, Best Director, Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay as well as Best Makeup and Hairstyling - wining the latter.

Moore - who took on the leading role in the movie - received a number of honors including a Golden Globe, Critics Choice and SAG Award for her performance.

While accepting the Golden Globe in January, Moore added she felt 'this wasn't something that I was allowed to have, that I could do movies that were successful, that made a lot of money, but that I couldn't be acknowledged.'

'And I bought in, and I believed that, and that corroded me over time, to the point where I thought a few years ago that maybe this was it, maybe I was complete, maybe I've done what I was supposed to do.'

She recalled, 'And as I was at kind of a low point, I had this magical, bold, courageous, out of the box, absolutely bonkers script come across my desk called The Substance, and the universe told me that you're not done...'

The Best Actress category during the ceremony also included Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Fernanda Torres (I'm Still Here) and Karla Sofia Gascon (Emilia Perez)

The actress concluded with, 'I had a woman say to me, "Just know you will never be enough, but you can know the value of your worth if you just put down the measuring stick."'

'And so today,' Moore continued, 'I celebrate this as a marker of my wholeness and of the love that is driving me and for the gift of doing something I love and being reminded that I do belong. Thank you so much.'

Last month, the beauty also received the Critics Choice Award for Best Actress.

On stage she referenced to The Substance and said, 'When I started the journey of this film, I could never imagine being here. This is so far beyond anything that I could have hoped for.'

Demi also won a SAG Award for Best Actress and called the honor both 'extraordinary' and 'meaningful.'

Later she also added, 'I am so so grateful that I have continued over these so many years to be able to try and sometimes succeed and sometimes fail, but to be able to keep going.'

Moore emotionally expressed at the end, 'That little girl who didn't believe in herself. The words are kind of beyond me, so I'm just gonna to have to just say thank you.'

Sources told Page Six that as the actress aged, she struggled to get cast in more projects, with one telling the outlet: 'Demi didn't get offered roles for many years - you just have to look at her IMDB page to see that.'

Before taking on her role in The Substance, Demi had thought her Hollywood career was 'complete.'

She touched on the topic while accepting the Maria Manetti Shrem Award for Acting during the SFFILM Awards in San Francisco in December.

Moore - who took on the leading role in the movie - received a number of honors including a Golden Globe, Critics Choice and SAG Award for her performance

Sources told Page Six that as the actress aged, she struggled to get cast in more projects, with one telling the outlet: 'Demi didn't get offered roles for many years - you just have to look at her IMDB page to see that'

The star expressed, 'I've had a very long career, but I haven't really ever been part of the conversations that allowed me to be part of [awards shows] and to really receive the love and celebration of my work. I'm really just so humbled.

'At the beginning of 2022, I had a moment where I was at an event and I felt I didn't belong. I didn't know why I was there. I wanted to be invisible and I couldn't figure out how to get out.'

She added, 'And I thought, "You know what? Maybe my time doing this is complete. Maybe I've done everything I was supposed to do."  Two weeks later, the script for The Substance came across my desk.'

Demi admitted she had been 'almost ready to step away' but told the crowd that she was grateful she chose not to.
Adrien Brody delivered an emotional Oscars acceptance speech that included an unexpected shout-out to girlfriend Georgina Chapman's two children.

Chapman shares daughter, India, 15, and son Dashiell, 13, with disgraced Hollywood film producer Harvey Weinstein, who is serving a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in 2020.

She divorced Weinstein in 2017 shortly after his horrific crimes against women in Hollywood were exposed in a bombshell expose.

Brody began dating Chapman six years ago and his recent awards sweep for The Brutalist has thrust her back into the spotlight.

And as he picked up his second Best Actor win on Sunday night, Brody provided rare insight into their relationship  specifically his close bond with Chapman and Weinstein's children.

As he choked back tears, the actor revealed that India and Dashiell now fondly refer to him as 'popsie.'

Adrien Brody delivered an emotional Oscars acceptance speech that included an unexpected shout-out to girlfriend Georgina Chapman's two children

Chapman shares daughter, India , 15, and son Dashiell, 13, with disgraced Hollywood film producer Harvey Weinstein , who is serving a lengthy prison sentence after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in 2020; the exes seen in 2014

He first spoke of Georgina and her children after thanking his fellow nominees and others involved in the making of The Brutalist as he accepted the honor from Oppenheimer star Cillian Murphy.

'I share this with my amazing partner, Georgina, who has not only reinvigorated my own self-worth, but my sense of value and my values,' he gushed.

He then referred to India and Dashiell as 'our children' as he thanked the teens  who were not at the ceremony  for 'accepting' him into their lives after their father's public downfall.

'And our beautiful children, Dash and India. I know this is  it's been a roller coaster, but thank you for accepting me into your life.

'And popsie is coming home a winner,' he said, while raising his statue.

The remark earned a warm chuckle from the audience before Brody went on to thank his team and his parents, who joined him and Chapman at the Academy Awards.

This isn't the first time that Brody has used his platform praise Georgina's 'resilience.'

As he picked up his second Best Actor win on Sunday night, Brody provided rare insight into their relationship  specifically his bond with Chapman and Weinstein's children

As he choked back tears, the actor revealed that India and Dashiell now fondly refer to him as 'popsie'

'I share this with my amazing partner, Georgina, who has not only reinvigorated my own self-worth, but my sense of value and my values,' he gushed as the camera panned to Chapman, who could be seen crying in the audience

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

After winning the Golden Globe for The Brutalist in January, the star thanked her for standing by him and for being an 'amazing partner.'

'To my beautiful and amazing partner Georgina, your generosity of spirit, your own resilience, your immense creativity are a daily reminder of how to be,' Brody said at the time, visibly emotional.

'I would not be standing here before you if it wasnt for you. There was a time not too long ago that I felt this may never be a moment afforded to me again, so thank you.'

Brody and Chapman first became romantically linked in 2019, marking her first relationship since her 2017 divorce from Weinstein, which was finalized in 2021.

Weinstein's decades-long reign of terror over women in Hollywood was revealed by The New York Times in October 2017 and Chapman, the British fashion designer and co-founder of the label Marchesa, left him soon after.

Chapman publicly announced their separation in a statement, saying she was 'heartbroken' by the accusations, but it was clear she wanted to distance herself from the scandal.

Weinstein, convicted of rape and sexual assault in 2020, was sentenced to 23 years in prison. He later received an additional 16-year sentence for further charges in California, bringing his total prison term to 39 years.

Chapman previously told Vogue in 2018 that she was left 'humiliated and so broken' by the Weinstein scandal. In regards to his crimes, she claimed to have been 'terribly naive.'

Weinstein's decades-long reign of terror over women in Hollywood was revealed by The New York Times in October 2017 and Chapman, the British fashion designer and co-founder of the label Marchesa, left him soon after; the exes seen in 2014

Weinstein, convicted of rape and sexual assault in 2020, was sentenced to 23 years in prison. He later received an additional 16-year sentence for further charges in California, bringing his total prison term to 39 years; Weinstein seen in January 2025

She has largely kept a low profile since then but has found new recognition as Brody's arm candy amid his 2025 award run for The Brutalist.

The film landed 10 Oscar nominations, including for best picture, director (for Brady Corbet), actor (for Adrien Brody), supporting actor (for Guy Pearce), supporting actress (for Felicity Jones), and original screenplay.

Brody stars as a Jewish Hungarian architect who immigrates to the US after surviving the Holocaust. The epic historical drama follows his character Laszlo Toth's attempts to realize his creative vision even as it conflicts with the petty desires of his wealthy benefactor (Pearce).

The 97th Academy Awards honored he best films of 2024, with the star-studded ceremony being held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Conan O'Brien, 61, made his debut as Oscars host, after joking: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

This year's ceremony had an unusually unsettled field in many of the most high-profile categories, including best picture and most of the acting categories.

Emilia Perez led the nominations this year with 13, including for best picture, actress (for Karla Sofia Gascon), supporting actress (for Zoe Saldana), director (for Jacques Audiard), adapted screenplay and original song.

However, it was Sean Baker's indie drama Anora that swept the major categories including Best Picture, Best Actress (Mikey Madison) and Best Director (Baker).

Mikey's win shocked viewers as The Substance's Demi Moore was the predicted frontrunner in the stacked category.
Scarlett Johansson could not control her giggles upon hearing a brutal joke about Joker: Folie a Deux during the 97th Academy Awards, which aired Sunday on ABC.

It happened after the Los Angeles Fire Department hit the Dolby Theatre stage in Hollywood for a standing ovation for their brave efforts during last month's wildfire disaster.

Oscar host Conan O'Brien then enlisted LAFD Captain II Erik Scott to tell the following joke: 'Our hearts go out to all of those who have lost their homes. And I'm talking about the producers of Joker 2.'

At that, the camera cut to the 40-year-old former child star, who shared a hearty laugh with her CAA agent Joe Machota seated by her side.

Todd Phillips' $200M-budget jukebox musical sequel barely broke even at the box office with $207.5M, and it scored a dismal 31% critic/audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.

Joker 2 won two trophies - worst sequel and worst screen combo (Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix) - at the 45th Golden Raspberry Awards announced Saturday.

Scarlett Johansson could not control her giggles upon hearing a brutal joke about Joker: Folie a Deux during the 97th Academy Awards, which aired Sunday on ABC

'People just sometimes don't like some things,' Lady Gaga - who scored a $12M paycheck to play Harley 'Lee' Quinzel - admitted to ELLE last month.

'It's that simple. And I think to be an artist, you have to be willing for people to sometimes not like it. And you keep going even if something didn't connect in the way that you intended.'

The 1981-set first film Joker made history in 2019 as the highest-grossing R-rated film of all time, amassing $1.079B at the global box office despite mixed reviews.

Scarlett joined June Squibb at the glitzy awards ceremony to co-present the trophy for best makeup and hairstyling to the team behind The Substance.

The silver-haired 95-year-old stars in Johansson's upcoming feature directorial debut, Eleanor the Great, which just so happened to be executive produced by Wayfarer Studios' Justin Baldoni and Jamey Heath.

X user @Zavie832 said, 'Not really paying that much attention to the Oscars right now but that Joker 2 diss caught me so off guard.'

Darrin L. Dortch (@LowBudgetLaughs) said, 'Now JOKER 2 is catching strays!?! Here for it! #Oscars #Oscars2025

Phillydude (@Fairwinds10) said, 'Wonderful tribute to LA fire fighters and they got to tell jokes - The Joker 2 joke was cold.'

POC Culture (@POCculture) said, 'LOOOOOL The LA Fire captain taking out Joker 2 #Oscars.'

It happened after the Los Angeles Fire Department hit the Dolby Theatre stage in Hollywood for a standing ovation for their brave efforts during last month's wildfire disaster

Oscar host Conan O'Brien then enlisted LAFD Captain II Erik Scott to tell the following joke: 'Our hearts go out to all of those who have lost their homes. And I'm talking about the producers of Joker 2'

At that, the camera cut to the 40-year-old former child star, who shared a hearty laugh with her CAA agent Joe Machota (L) seated by her side

Todd Phillips' $200M-budget jukebox musical sequel barely broke even at the box office with $207.5M, and it scored a dismal 31% critic/audience score on Rotten Tomatoes

Joker 2 won two trophies - worst sequel and worst screen combo (Lady Gaga and Joaquin Phoenix) - at the 45th Golden Raspberry Awards announced Saturday

Lady Gaga admitted to ELLE last month: 'People just sometimes don't like some things. It's that simple. And I think to be an artist, you have to be willing for people to sometimes not like it. And you keep going even if something didn't connect in the way that you intended'

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

X user @Zavie832 said, 'Not really paying that much attention to the Oscars right now but that Joker 2 diss caught me so off guard.'

Others weren't amused, like Daniel Kurland (@DanielKurlansky), who said in all caps, 'THESE REACTON SHOTS FROM THE "JOKER 2" GAG'

Miggy (@MiggyLovesFilms) said, '#Oscars Dat joker 2 joke was wild.

Scarlett joined June Squibb at the glitzy awards ceremony to co-present the trophy for best makeup and hairstyling to the team behind The Substance

The silver-haired 95-year-old stars in Johansson's upcoming feature directorial debut, Eleanor the Great

Others weren't amused, like Daniel Kurland (@DanielKurlansky), who said in all caps, 'THESE REACTON SHOTS FROM THE "JOKER 2" GAG.'

JDK (@KingKieta_) said, 'shoutout to the LA Fire Department. (Joker 2 absolutely sucks).

Another X user, @lavender_bl0nde, said, 'our hearts go out to all those who lost their homes, and were talking about the producers of joker 2 can gaga please get a break.'

Miggy (@MiggyLovesFilms) said, '#Oscars Dat joker 2 joke was wild.

Jon Sieruga (@Moonspinner55) said, '#Oscars Funny dig at JOKER 2, but the irony is, JOKER 2 took more chances than most of these nominated movies.'

Gaga Crave (@AMENARTPOP) also said in all caps, 'NOT THE JOKER 2 SHADE AT THE #OSCARS.'
While the Oscars may have been the hottest ticket in town on Sunday night, there's another event that's not too far behind - and that's the Vanity Fair Oscars Party.

The legendary bash, which takes place in Beverly Hills, is a celebration of the evening and gathers many of the biggest names in Hollywood.

Sunday night's guest list featured stars, comedians and other public figures including Renee Rapp, Selma Blair, Monica Lewinsky, Seth Rogen and Chelsea Handler.

The party kicks off once the awards have wrapped up, with Anora taking home Best Picture.

The movie's protagonist, Mikey Madison was awarded Best Actress in a Leading Role, while Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Elsewhere, Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Now that the afterparties have begun, there are many looks to be seen - including ones that missed the mark:

Seeing red! Actress Sarah Paulson arrived to the event in a puffy red gown that featured a bulbous bottom and detailing at the bust

Mad for metallic! Chelsea Handler wore a metallic silver strapless gown that included an awkwardly-sized ruffle at the hip. She paired the look with pointed-toe gold shoes

Hair we go again! Julia Fox wore an outrageous, sheer dress that was seemingly decorated with long strands of hair over her chest area

Dandelion or Oscars party? Zoey Deutch was dressed in a form-fitting, light yellow dress with what appeared to be pom-pom detailing decorated on the skirt

Racy lacy! Comedian Nikki Glaser left little to the imagination as she wore a black lace dress with a corseted bodysuit that was see-through on bottom

Ice Spice opted for a seemingly casual chartreuse ensemble as she attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party

Lily-Rose Depp teamed a flowy, sage green maxi skirt with a crop top at the fashion event this Sunday

Zoe Saldana opted for an orange skirt with a ruched trim, accentuated at the waist with a leather belt

Kathryn Newton opted for a very bubbly pink cape, donned over a shimmering peach mini-dress

Heidi Klum channelled a swan with her ivory ensemble, which was adorned with feather detailing

Monica Barbaro kept her ensemble simple with a dusky pink frock, that had a glittery bodice, at the event

Gal Gadot wore a bright red dress - carrying a satchel bag, and sporting a chunky black bangle to match

Zoe Kravitz left little to the imagination with her black dress - that included a see through silhouette at the back

Beach club or Vanity Fair party? Actress Olivia Wilde sported a completely sheer, cream-colored dress with ruffles at the sleeves and hem. The dress also featured a very deep v-neck as she accessorized with a metallic gold bag

Anna Kendrick had a lot going on as she wore a textured, short black dress with dramatic, oversized embellishments on the shoulders and hem. She paired the look with a high ponytail and black stiletto heels with a peep toe

Summer or winter? Cazzie Davis arrived to the Vanity Fair party in a sheer, white lace gown complete with cutouts on the chest and bodice, which channeled much more of a warmer-weather vibe than early March-appropriate attire

Can you say drab? Jeremy Strong and Emma Wall wore washed-out colors to the party, with Wall in a plain beige gown and Strong in a dark, olive-brown fitted suit

Sofia Vergara wore a gown that looked less like couture and more like something that you would find at a mall to the party, as it had lace-up cutouts and an unfinished hemline
The 97th annual Academy Awards have been dubbed the most boring in history as viewers slammed major upsets in key categories while criticizing the lame jokes and steady stream of half-hearted anti-Trump rants.

Anora was the biggest Oscar winner of the night, taking home five awards including Best Picture, Best Leading Actress and Best Director.

The film follows the wild story of a sex worker, played by Mikey Madison, who marries the son of a Russian oligarch, whose family disapproves of the union.

Madison took home Best Actress in one of the biggest upsets of the evening, beating out Demi Moore, who had dominated the category throughout much of awards season for her shocking career turn in horror film The Substance.

Similarly, Timothee Chalamet's efforts in A Complete Unknown were overlooked in favor of Adrien Brody's performance in The Brutalist.

The Complete Unknown star's loss sparked an onslaught of memes claiming he fell victim to the 'Kardashian curse' for bringing girlfriend Kylie Jenner as his date.

The film is centered around a prostitute played by Mikey Madison who marries the son of a Russian oligarch, whose family disapproves of the union

Madison took home Best Actress in one of the biggest upsets of the evening, beating out Demi Moore , who had dominated the category throughout much of awards season

The 97th annual Oscars have been dubbed the most boring ever as viewers slam upsets in key categories and criticize the steady stream of half-hearted Trump rants

Similarly, Timothee Chalamet 's efforts in A Complete Unknown were overlooked in favor of Adrien Brody's performance in The Brutalist

Snubs and upsets in the big categories

Mikey Madison, 25, was up against Fernanda Torres, Karla Sofia Gascon, Cynthia Erivo and Demi Moore in a stacked category where Moore was heavily favored to win.

Soon after the award was announced, X was flooded with posts furious about Demi's loss and insisting the veteran actress deserved the statue.

One user said she was 'robbed' and another called it the 'biggest snub in Oscars history.'

Moore had a heartwarming comeback narrative throughout awards season, describing at the Golden Globes how she was considered a 'popcorn actress' who would not be in contention for awards season.

Similarly, Timothee Chalamet had made no secret of his desire to win the Oscar for Best Actor during his campaign for Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown.

He said after winning the SAG award that he was 'in pursuit of greatness. I know people don't usually talk like that, but I want to be one of the greats. I'm inspired by the greats.'

Despite his earnestness and widely celebrated performance, he lost out to Adrien Brody, who took home his second award for The Brutalist.

But...

Anora's Mikey Madison is a late-breaking best actress co-frontrunner after recent wins and controversy that erupted after offensive tweets from Emilia Perez's Karla Sofia Gascon resurfaced

Moore had a heartwarming comeback narrative throughout awards season, describing at the Golden Globes how she was considered a 'popcorn actress' who would not be in contention for awards season

Demi Moore is the other major frontrunner for the satirical body-horror film The Substance. She has won multiple major awards this season

Kardashian curse strikes

Chalamet was warned there were high stakes involved with bringing his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner to his night of nights.

She said it herself in an early episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians: men who date the Kardashians are said to be 'cursed' to have a downfall.

'The Kardashian curse is every male figure that comes and dates a Kardashian. Their life kind of just goes downhill after that,' Jenner said.

The sisters have previously slammed the theory as 'super sexist.'

This year's best lead actor race is up in the air after Timothee Chalamet's recent SAG win for A Complete Unknown

Chalamet was warned there were high stakes involved with bringing his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner to his night of nights

Woke rants

A longtime staple of Hollywood awards nights, the Oscars served as a political soap box for some of the nominees and hosts, who couldn't help but rant or joke at the expense of Trump and his administration.

But even the woke jabs weren't enough to turn the tide on the boring evening, delivered with far less conviction and fanfare than past spectacles and drawing little response from critics or fans.

Oscar winning director Basel Adra was heckled as he delivered an impassioned critique of Trump's foreign policy relating to the Israel-Palestine crisis during his acceptance speech on stage.

Oscars host Conan O'Brien noticebly steered clear of politics during his opening monologue but couldn't resist a jab at Trump later in the evening

Adra gripped the Oscar for Best Documentary for his film No Other Land, which captured the plight of Palestinians throughout the ongoing war with Israel.

But as he slammed 'this administration's foreign policy' for blocking the path to peace, a member of the crowd shouted 'get rid of Hamas,' according to a Vulture reporter who heard the interaction.

Oscars host Conan O'Brien noticeably steered clear of politics during his opening monologue but couldn't resist a jab at Trump later in the evening.

He told the audience: 'Anora is having a good night. Two wins already. I guess Americans are excited to see somebody finally stand up to a powerful Russian.'

It came after Oscars presenter Daryl Hannah also made an off-script remark about Trump.

As she started out her segment, the actress said 'Slava Ukraini.' The phrase translates to 'Glory to Ukraine.'

It comes following the startling exchange between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Oval Office this week, over Russia's war in Ukraine.

Karla Sofia Gascon resurfaces

When Zoe Saldana took to the stage to accept her award for Best Supporting Actress, audiences were waiting with bated breath to see if she'd acknowledge her costar Karla Sofia Gascon in the wake of her controversy.

Gascon all but ruled herself out of contention for her own Oscar win in the Best Leading Actress category after offensive and racially-charged tweets of hers resurfaced during the campaign.

The controversy also ended her film Emilia Perez' hopes in the main categories, some experts said.

She resurfaced to attend the Oscars but it made for an awkward evening for her colleagues.

Saldana broke down in tears as she pointed out that she is the first American of Dominican origin to win an Oscar. She shouted out various people, including her mom, dad, sisters, and husband.

And while she thanked her Emilia Perez 'cast and crew' as a collective, she failed to mention Karla by name.

Emilia Perez star Karla Sofia Gascon, 52, looked awkward as she was pictured in the crowd Sunday at the 97th Academy Awards from the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood

Similarly, she and costar Selena Gomez had an awkward reunion in the crowd, briefly stopping to greet each other before going their separate ways.

O'Brien joked that Best picture nominee Anora used 'the f-word 479 times,' adding 'that's three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascon's publicist!'

The host joked as the camera panned on the actress, who did not appear to be amused, adding, 'Karla, if you are gonna tweet about the Oscars my name is Jimmy Kimmel.'

Hulu ends livestream early

Viewers watching via streaming service Hulu were left disappointed when their stream cut out right before the final award of the night.

The glitch sparked fury online with watchers demanding a year of free service, while others revealed they would cancel their service and demanded a refund.

Some claimed that the broadcast when cut during the crucial moment before best actress was announced.

Boring from start to finish

Despite all the controversy during and leading up to the big night, there was one opinion all the critics had in common: they were bored.

'That was the most boring Oscars I have ever watched,' one critic said in a sentiment echoed repeatedly on X.

'The Oscars are the most boring award show. Only time they were lit was when Will Smith slapped Chris Rock,' another said.

'Same old boring Oscars. Too long(almost four hours). Too political(Middle East banter and Putin bulls**t). Too many phony smiles from the losers. Too many phony Hollywood dorks who voted for Harris. BTW, funny how these actors can memorize movie scripts but need notes on stage.'

Despite all the controversy during and leading up to the big night, there was one opinion all the critics had in common: they were bored

A-listers' poor manners

Fans were buzzing after Edward Norton appeared to swear in response to his Oscars 2025 loss.

The esteemed actor, 55, was in the running for Best Supporting Actor for playing folk legend Pete Seeger in A Complete Unknown but was edged out by Kieran Culkin for A Real Pain.

When Kieran's name was announced, cameras lingered on Edward in the audience, and eagle-eyed social media users were quick to claim they caught him letting out an expletive.

Fans wasted no time reacting to the moment online, with one viewer taking to X, writing, 'Ed Norton saying f*** and it getting caught on camera is immediately iconic #Oscars2025.'

Later in the night, Adrien Brody was slammed over a 'disgusting' act as he won his second Best Actor Oscar.

As the star was walking up the steps to the stage, he turned around, took his gum out of his mouth and threw it to girlfriend and Harvey Weinstein's ex Georgina Chapman, 48.

Chapman was seen running up to her partner and diligently catching the gum before he made his speech.

Brody was also criticized for the length of his speech.

During his acceptance speech Adrien surpassed his allotted 45seconds for his acceptance speech as he referenced his previous Oscar win.

He said: 'And I'm wrapping up, please turn the music off. I've done this before. Thank you. It's not my first rodeo, but I will will be brief. I will not be egregious, I promise.

'I'm here once again to represent the lingering traumas and the repercussions of war and systematic oppression. And of anti-semitism and racism and of othering, and I believe that - I pray for a healthier and a happier and a more inclusive world, and I believe if the past can teach us anything, it's a reminder to not let hate go unchecked.'

Adrien Brody was slammed over a 'disgusting' act as he won his second Best Actor Oscar at the 2025 ceremony on Sunday

However, as the star was walking up the steps to the stage, he turned around, took his gum out of his mouth and threw it to girlfriend and Harvey Weinstein's ex Georgina Chapman, 48

Kamala Harris will she-won't she appearance

Kamala Harris was forced to shut down speculation she was set to make a surprise guest appearance at Sunday night's Oscars with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her 'watch party' from home.

The former vice president was named earlier on Sunday as a guest at the 97th annual celebrations, with whispers she was set to lead a segment paying tribute to the Los Angeles firefighters who valiantly fought devastating wildfires in January.

But her husband, Doug, put those rumors to rest just an hour before the ceremony was due to kick off with a post to X captioned: 'Oscars watch party prep.'

The photo featured a make-up free Harris pouring Doritos into a bowl, with her hair swept back in a bun and wearing a black sweater.

She was all smiles in the photo, which appeared to be taken in the couple's kitchen.

Hollywood bible Deadline had reported Harris' supposed presence Sunday afternoon, citing a federal source who said beefed up security at the event was in part due to her appearance.

The photo featured a make-up free Harris pouring Doritos into a bowl, with her hair swept back in a bun and wearing a black sweater. She was all smiles in the photo, which appeared to be taken in the couple's kitchen

Adam Sandler's shock walk-out

Adam Sandler and his typically casual attire stormed out of the Oscars after becoming the butt of one of Conan O'Brien's Oscar monologue jokes.

The 58-year-old comedian has typically never been one to dress up for most awards shows, a fact O'Brien pointed out in a very humorous fashion, causing Sandler to leave, but not before giving Oscar nominee Timothee Chalamet a kiss.

'Conan. What's up my brother? What's going on, man?' Sandler said, before O'Brien chided him and asked, 'Adam, what are you wearing?'

Sandler responded: 'I don't care about what I wear or what I don't wear. If my snazzy gym shorts and fluffy sweatshirt offend you so much that you had to mock me in front of my peers, I'm going.'

O'Brien apologized as Sandler reiterated that he was leaving, adding, 'I have to,' as some in the crowd shouted, 'No' to try and get him to stay.

Adam Sandler and his typically casual attire stormed out of the Oscars after becoming the butt of one of Conan O'Brien's Oscar monologue jokes

The 58-year-old comedian has typically never been one to dress up for most awards shows, a fact O'Brien pointed out in a very humorous fashion, causing Sandler to leave, but not before giving Oscar nominee Timothee Chalamet a kiss
Get all Daily Mail Australia's latest MAFS stories on WhatsApp here

The state's top workplace safety watchdog is investigating Married At First Sight following the show's explosive door punching incident last week.

Controversial groom Paul Antoine, 31, came under fire for his 'toxic' and 'unacceptable' behaviour after he admitted to punching a hole in the bedroom door during a heated argument with his bride Carina Mirabile during last Wednesday's episode.

On Monday, SafeWork NSW acting deputy secretary Trent Curtain told a budget estimates hearing that the department was looking into the incident, according to The Daily Telegraph reported.

'Weve had a request  to also look into it,' Mr Curtain said.

'We have allocated that to an inspector, the inspector will make inquiries  probably with NSW Police.'

It comes after the Nine Network were asked to cooperate with NSW Police as they conduct an official investigation into the show.

The state's top workplace safety watchdog is investigating Married At First Sight following the show's explosive door punching incident last week

'The matter has been referred to officers from South Sydney Police Area Command, who have commenced an investigation,' a NSW Police spokesperson said last Friday.

'As the investigation is current, police will not be making any further comment in relation to the matter.'

An insider at the apartment had previously revealed Channel Nine were approached by police and asked to cooperate on Thursday.

They added the State Police were already monitoring the show, but a request for action was escalated to the Deputy Commissioner of NSW after Paul's outburst.

A source at Nine also said: 'Footage is likely to be seized and participants will be approached to assist the investigation.'

Daily Mail Australia were first to reveal that Paul punched a hole in the wall of the hotel apartment he shared with Carina at Sydney's One Global Resorts Green Square.

The rage-induced outburst occurred during an argument the pair had after Carina revealed to Paul she had previously slept with rapper Quavo.

Carina repeatedly apologised, trying to reassure Paul it was just a fling, but the revelation had already sent him over the edge.

Controversial groom Paul Antoine, 31, came under fire for his 'toxic' and 'unacceptable' behaviour after he admitted to punching a hole in the bedroom door during a heated argument with his bride Carina Mirabile during last Wednesday's episode

Channel Nine told Daily Mail Australia they are providing support to the couple.

'Nine and Endemol Shine Australia has treated this matter extremely seriously,' they said in a statement.

'Our first priority at all times has been the wellbeing and safety of the participants and after extensive consultation with Carina, she wanted to remain in the experiment with Paul. We continue to provide support for Carina and Paul.'

Viewers have been left divided on the issue.

Some MAFS fans are calling for Paul to be removed from the experiment or for the series to be taken off air.

Some are enraged physical abuse is being 'taken more seriously' than emotional abuse, and calling for groom Adrian Araouzou to also be removed from the show.

Sunday's episode saw the experts confront Paul over his shocking wall-punching outburst.

The atmosphere was tense as relationship expert Alessandra Rampolla wasted no time addressing the violent incident, demanding Paul explain himself.

It comes as NSW Police revealed on Friday the investigation was launched

The incident happened off-camera, and was addressed during Wednesday night's episode, with Antoine confessing he committed the violent act after learning Carina had previously slept with rapper Quavo

Paul recounted the moment that led to his alarming reaction, explaining that Carina had joked about sleeping with someone associated with the music playing in their car.

Feeling 'disrespected' and 'embarrassed,' Paul admitted that when they returned to their apartment, he 'completely lost control' and lashed out, punching a hole in the door.

'I felt trapped, and I completely lost control,' he confessed.

Alessandra was visibly unimpressed.

'It does not matter how disrespected you felt,' she shot back.

'You do not punch walls. You do not punch floors. Period. Full stop. That intimidates.'

Despite the confronting nature of the discussion, Carina downplayed the seriousness of the incident, brushing it off as an emotional reaction.

Her response prompted an immediate reaction from Mel Schilling.

'This is not normal behaviour, sweetheart,' she warned.

'This is not how you show love. This is deeply troubling.'

Fellow expert John Aiken backed her up, calling Paul's behaviour 'toxic, inappropriate, and unacceptable'.

With the panel visibly furious, Paul was then put on the spot, forced to explain why he should be allowed to stay in the experiment.
An awkward exchange between Selena Gomez and Samuel L Jackson was caught by a lip reader as the directors of the documentary No Other Land gave a speech about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict during the Oscars.

Gomez, 32, and Jackson, 76, presented the best documentary award to the four activists who made the movie, two of them Israeli and two Palestinian.

No Other Land is fiercely critical of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and stars two of its directors - Palestinian Basel Adra and Israeli Yuval Abraham.

The two men delivered impassioned speeches from the Oscars stage denouncing the displacement of the Palestinians, as well as Israel's assault on Gaza in the wake of the October 7 attack by Hamas in 2023.

However many Oscars viewers had their eyes trained on Gomez and Jackson, who were spotted chatting uncomfortably onstage as the directors spoke.

Now expert Nicola Hickling of Lipreader LIMITED has told DailyMail.com what the celebrities were saying to one another in the background of the political moment.

An awkward exchange between Selena Gomez and Samuel L Jackson was caught by a lip reader as the directors of the documentary No Other Land gave an Oscars speech

While Abraham was wrapping up, Jackson allegedly told Gomez: 'He made that speech very political,' and she purportedly replied: 'He did, yes,' per Hickling.

Gomez had a faint smile on her face while Jackson talked to her, and after she gave him her response, Jackson was seen laughing.

Some social media users looked askance at the exchange and felt Jackson and Gomez were being disrespectful to the filmmakers, particularly in light of the gravity of the issues being discussed.

Early in the Oscars speech, Adra spoke about 'always fearing settlers' violence, home demolition and forced displacement' amid the 'Israeli occupation.'

He also issued a call to 'the world to take serious actions to stop the un-justice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.'

Abraham then stepped in, noting that Palestinians and Israelis collaborated on the film 'because together our voices are stronger.'

He then slated 'the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people, which must end,' while also condemning 'the crime of October 7,' adding that the 'brutally taken' Israeli hostages 'must be freed' by Hamas.

Referring to Adra, he said: 'When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and Basel is under military laws that destroy his life and he cannot control.'

He urged the parties to seek 'a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people,' and argued to the American audience that US foreign policy was 'helping to block this path.'

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Gomez had a faint smile on her face while Jackson talked to her, and after she gave him her response, Jackson was seen laughing

Palestinian filmmaker Basel Adra is seen giving a speech about 'always fearing settlers' violence, home demolition and forced displacement' amid the 'Israeli occupation'

Israeli filmmaker Yuval Abraham, pictured at the mic, slated 'the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people, which must end,' while also condemning 'the crime of October 7'

Abraham urged the parties to seek 'a different path, a political solution' and argued to the American audience that US foreign policy was 'helping to block this path'

At that line, applause broke out in the audience - but Jackson kept his hands down while Gomez could be seen adjusting her dress

In the middle of the speech, a heckler was heard in the audience shouting: 'Get rid of Hamas!' but failed to unhorse the filmmakers

At that line, applause broke out in the audience - but Jackson kept his hands down while Gomez could be seen adjusting her dress.

During the speech, a heckler in the audience shouted: 'Get rid of Hamas!' according to Vulture, but failed to unhorse the filmmakers.

Jackson has expressed support for Israel in the past, tweeting in 2014 that he was attending a Celebrate Israel Parade in New York City.

That same year, Gomez was plunged into controversy for urging fans on social media to 'Pray for Gaza' amid an Israeli onslaught against the Palestinian enclave.

As backlash mounted to her original post, she added a clarification that she was 'not picking any sides' and was 'praying for peace and humanity for all!'

In the wake of the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, Gomez took a brief break from social media, as Israel laid siege to the Gaza Strip and pummeled it with airstrikes.

When she returned to Instagram, she wrote that she was 'sick' over the 'innocent people getting hurt,' adding: 'I wish I could change the world. But a post wont.'

Gomez is now engaged to music producer Benny Blanco, real name Benjamin Levin, who is Jewish and has publicly praised Israel, tweeting that the country is 'amazin' in 2011. He was her date to the Oscars this Sunday.

A source recently told DailyMail.com that Gomez has resolved to 'stay out of politics' after a recent controversy over her video crying about Donald Trump's immigration policy

A source recently told DailyMail.com that Gomez has resolved to 'stay out of politics' after a recent controversy over her immigration stance.

This January, as Donald Trump returned to the White House and announced plans to begin mass deportations of illegal immigrants, Gomez posted a social media video of herself weeping over the policy.

'All my people are getting attacked, the children. I dont understand. Im so sorry, I wish I could do something but I cant,' she said in the video, sobbing profusely. 'I dont know what to do. Ill try everything, I promise.'

A right-wing blowback quickly followed against Gomez, whose grandparents and aunt moved illegally to the United States from Mexico in the 1970s.

Gomez ultimately deleted the video, and a source informed DailyMail.com that she 'realizes that she cannot go up against a Republican backed nation - many of whom are loyal customers of her Rare Beauty brand.'

The insider added that the globally famous pop star 'does not wish to alienate' and 'is going to stay out of politics and in her own lane after that drama.'
Miranda Kerr was a lady in red at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Los Angeles on Sunday night.

The Australian model, 41, attended the prestigious Hollywood affair on Monday with her husband, Snapchat CEO and founder Evan Spiegel.

Miranda dazzled in a sparkling red floor-length dress by Jean Pierre Khoury, which boasted a strapless neckline and was embellished with tiny crystals.

The tight-fitting bodice accentuated the Victoria's Secret supermodel's incredible figure as she posed on the red carpet.

The Kora Organics founder opted for a natural beauty look - tousled hair and glowing skin.

She accesorised with a chunky diamond bracelet and red heels.

Miranda Kerr was a lady in red as she attended the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Los Angeles on Sunday night with her husband Evan Spiegel

Miranda dazzled in a sparkling red floor-length dress by Jean Pierre Khoury, which boasted a strapless neckline and was embellished with tiny crystals

Meanwhile, Evan looked dapper in a sleek tuxedo and bowtie as he proudly posed with his stunning wife.

Miranda and Evan share three sons together - Hart, six, Myles, five, and Pierre, nine months.

She also has a 13-year-old son, Flynn, from her previous marriage to Orlando Bloom.

The Sydney-born beauty recently told Vogue Australia she had considered selling her Kora Organics skincare company to focus more on motherhood.

However, her Snap Inc. founder husband encouraged her to reconsider.

'Often I just want to be, "Oh, I want to sell my company and just be a mum" because it's a lot to juggle,' she said.

'But then Evan reminds me how my company is my baby girl... I started the concept in 2006, so Kora really was my first baby.'

Known for her dedication to wellness, Miranda is one of Australias top modeling exports, having walked the runway for prestigious brands like Victoria's Secret, Dior and Chanel.

The Kora Organics founder opted for a natural beauty look - tousled hair and glowing skin

Miranda also recently confirmed her newest baby boy was named after her late grandfather.

'His name is Pierre after my late grandfather, Peter. So French for Peter,' she told People magazine.

When asked what her other boys think of the new arrival, Miranda was happy to report they adored the youngest in the family.

'They love him,' she said, before adding that Pierre is the 'light of our home'.

'He's just a little ray of sunshine and his brothers just adore him.'

'When you're having a new baby coming into the home, you often wonder, you're like, "Oh, how are the boys going to react?" But they adore him,' she added.
Kieran Culkin's bleeped remarks during his Oscar speech have been revealed, after his X-rated remarks were censored during the broadcast.

The 42-year-old won best supporting actor for the comedy-drama A Real Pain, written and directed by his co-star Jesse Eisenberg.

One of the nominees he beat out was his old Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who was up for his role as Roy Cohn in the Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice.

At the beginning of his speech, Culkin paid a sweet tribute to Strong - only for part of his remarks to be muted because of profanity.

Now, however, a video has surfaced on social media that shows the full comment Culkin made on Strong's acclaimed performance, via Deadline.

Robert Downey Jr., who presented the award, had praised Strong's turn as Cohn, and Culkin agreed, saying: 'He's right, by the way, Jeremy, you're amazing in The Apprentice. I love your work. It's f***ing great.'

Kieran Culkin 's bleeped remarks during his Oscar speech have been revealed, after his X-rated remarks were censored during the broadcast

Culkin then realized he had made a mistake by swearing on camera, and quickly covered his mouth in an apologetic gesture.

'I'm not supposed to single anyone out. It's favoritism. Anyway, but you were great,' he added to Strong, who had played his character's brother on Succession.

During his Oscars speech, Culkin also reminded his wife of the wholesome promise she made to him years ago if he ever won the coveted Oscar trophy.

While accepting the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in A Real Pain, Culkin admitted that his wife, Jazz Charton, agreed to give him a fourth child if he ever won an Academy Award.

'About a year ago, I was on a stage like this and I very stupidly, publicly said that I want a third kid from her because she said if I won the award she would give me the kid,' Culkin said on-stage while holding his Oscar statuette.

'Turns out she said that because she didn't think I was gonna win,' he jokingly shared.

'She goes, "Oh god, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid." And I turned to her and I said, "Really, I want four,"' Culkin recounted to the audience.

At that moment, he recalled Charton saying: 'I will give you four when you win an Oscar.'

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

One of the nominees he beat out was his old Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who was up for his role as Roy Cohn in the Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice

At the beginning of his speech, Culkin paid a sweet tribute to Strong - only for part of his remarks to be muted because of profanity

Culkin won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in A Real Pain

The Succession star used his acceptance speech to remind his wife, Jazz Charton, that she promised to give him four children if he ever won the Oscar

'I'm really sorry I did this again and let's get cracking on those kids. What do you say?' Culkin told his wife

Culkin then took the opportunity to remind Charton of her promise, pointing out that he has 'not brought it up once until just now.'

'But I just have this to say to you Jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith,' he joked. 'No pressure, I love you, I'm really sorry I did this again and let's get cracking on those kids. What do you say?'

The camera cut to Charton in the crowd, as she was seen laughing at her husband's candid acceptance speech and seemingly agreed to follow through on her promise.

Back in 2012, the 36-year-old writer met Culkin at a bar in New York City. Charton, who was born in London and raised by a single mom, started dating Culkin shortly after their first meeting.

One year later, the pair eloped in Iowa while on a road trip.

These days, the couple are proud parents to five-year-old daughter Kinsey and three-year-old son Wilder Wolf.

Culkin was nominated in the best supporting actor category alongside Yura Borisov for Anora, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong for The Apprentice.

Receiving his first Oscar nomination and win, Culkin also won at this year's SAG Awards, Critics Choice Awards and the Golden Globes.

Culkin and Charton walked the Oscars red carpet together on Sunday evening outside the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles

The couple, who were married in 2013, are already parents to daughter Kinsey, five, and son Wilder Wolf, three

The award marked Culkin's first Oscar nomination and win. He also won at this year's SAG Awards, Critics Choice Awards and the Golden Globes for his performance in A Real Pain

The Home Alone star previously begged his 'beautiful wife' Charton for more kids at the 2024 Emmy Awards.

'Thank you for sharing your life with me and for giving me two amazing kids,' he said during his acceptance speech at the time.

'And Jazz, I want more. You said maybe, if I win,' he added.
Julia Fox turned heads wearing a Bianca Censori-inspired naked gown as she made an appearance at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party in Beverly Hills on Sunday.

The Uncut Gems actress, 35 - who uncharacteristically covered up for a night out ahead of Hollywood's biggest night - joined other celebrities at the glamorous event such as Sydney Sweeney and Jessica Alba.

The model's look was similar to Censori's controversial outfit as she walked the red carpet with Kanye West at the Grammy Awards last month in L.A.

Fox arrived to the star-studded bash wearing a flesh-colored, mesh dress that fell down towards her ankles.

She slipped into a pair of nude, closed-toed heels and opted to not add any flashy accessories to the ensemble.

Julia - who previously dated Kanye West - seemingly donned a brunette wig that had long wavy strands which fell down past her shoulders and wrapped around her lower waist and hips.

Julia Fox, 35, turned heads wearing a Bianca Censori-inspired naked gown as she made an appearance at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party in Beverly Hills on Sunday

Her makeup was glammed up for the evening and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light shadow around her eyes.

A warm blush was worn to better accentuate her cheekbones while a nude-colored matte tint was added to her lips for a finishing touch.

Fox struck a variety of poses upon arriving to the Wallis Annenberg Center where the festivities took place.

The star has previously opened up about her personal sense of style and during an interview with WWD last year, she expressed: 'In the fashion world, it's all about wearing the big European design houses.

'I'm just not really about that life. That doesn't excite me, and it doesn't make me feel good.'

Julia also told Nylon, 'I like clothes to tell a story. I like them to be indicative of who a person is. I think when you're jumping on every trend that comes along, it shows a lack of authenticity or identity.'

She continued, 'I've always been drawn to the freaks, people that dress crazy. I find that those people are more my cup of tea.'

Last month, Kanye and Bianca sparked outrage when she went fully nude on the Grammys red carpet - with some calling the rapper an 'abuser' and others labeling the stunt as indecent exposure.

Fox arrived to the star-studded bash wearing a flesh-colored, mesh dress that fell down towards her ankles

She slipped into a pair of nude, closed-toed heels and opted to not add any flashy accessories to the ensemble

Her makeup was glammed up for the evening and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light shadow around her eyes

Fox struck a variety of poses upon arriving to the Wallis Annenberg Center where the festivities took place

In a series of rants on X, West said that the outfit was 'hands down the best red carpet look of all time.'

Only days after their stunt at the Grammys, it was reported that West and Censori were headed for divorce after tying the knot in 2022.

However, a source recently told Page Six that the pair have since 'decided to make their marriage work again.'

Before his marriage to Bianca, Kanye was notably in a relationship with Julia from late 2021 until their separation on Valentine's Day in 2022.

In her memoir Down The Drain, the model opened up about how the music artist controlled what she had worn when they were dating.

At one point she wrote: 'He appoints a team to work on my wardrobe. I immediately think of an episode of Keeping Up With The Kardashians where he did the same thing for his estranged wife in their early stages of dating. This is all so surreal.'

The mother-of-one also penned, 'I watch powerless as my life shrinks to fit inside cardboard boxes. The new clothes he got me won't fit inside my small place.'

Fox - who is known for her bold and one-of-a-kind outfits - was also spotted on Sunday as she stopped by Elton John AIDS Foundation's 33rd Oscars viewing bash in West Hollywood.

She continued, 'I've always been drawn to the freaks, people that dress crazy. I find that those people are more my cup of tea'; seen in February in L.A.

In her memoir Down The Drain, the model opened up about how the music artist controlled what she had worn when they were dating; seen in 2022 in Paris

The ensemble she opted to wear at the event appeared to make her look windblown, and sported a gray skirt which had material that fell down behind her.

She additionally donned a white shirt and fitted nude corset that was secured on top for a unique flare.

The actress wrapped a loose burgundy tie around the neckline of the shirt and slipped into a pair of black platform heels.

Fox donned a blonde wig that had voluminous locks and strands that were styled to slightly lift into the air on the left side.

Fox - who is known for her bold and one-of-a-kind outfits - was also spotted on Sunday as she stopped by Elton John AIDS Foundation's 33rd Oscars viewing bash in West Hollywood

The ensemble she opted to wear at the event appeared to make her look windblown, and sported a gray skirt which had material that fell down behind her

The star covered up her eyebrows while a layer of mascara was added to her lashes to glam up the ensemble.

A light pink blush was added to her cheekbones for a radiant glow while a glossy nude tint was worn on her lips.

Before heading to the Vanity Fair Oscars bash in Beverly Hills, Julia had the chance to show off the look once again at the Elton John Oscars after party.

Fox has been keeping busy and recently made an appearance at the Independent Spirit Awards last month and in January, her film titled The Presence was released in the U.S.
Fans watching the 2025 Academy Awards ceremony on television  or attempting to watch it on Hulu  only got part of the story.

Behind the scenes, Hollywood's biggest stars showed off alternately charming and ridiculous displays.

The stars of Wicked were responsible for some of the night's funniest behind-the-scenes visuals, such as when Ariana Grande repurposed her dress' rigid skirt as a phone holder.

The songstress was spotted briefly during the broadcast when she rose to her feet next to her costar Cynthia Erivo to applaud Wicked's costume designer Paul Tazewell, who won the Oscar for his efforts on their film.

As she stood up for a standing ovation, her phone was clearly visible resting on the ripple shelf of her skirt.

Another Wicked star was also responsible for one of the vainest moments of the night.

Fans watching the 2025 Academy Awards ceremony on television  or attempting to watch it on Hulu  only got part of the story. One of the funniest behind-the-scenes visuals occurred when Ariana Grande repurposed her dress' rigid skirt as a phone holder

Another Wicked star was also responsible for one of the vainest moments of the night

Ariana was seen standing to applaud Wicked costume designer Paul Tazewell on his win when she displayed her phone resting on the shelf of her skirt

During some downtime, Jeff Goldblum, who plays the Wizard in Wicked, was seen displaying his phone to his wife Emilie Livingston.

But photos snapped of him from behind revealed that Goldblum was hilariously swiping through his own red carpet photos.

His costar Ariana was also the subject of one of the sweetest behind-the-scene images at the ceremony.

She was accompanied by her boyfriend and Wicked costar Ethan Slater, who put on a supportive performance. Both showed off plenty of PDA at the ceremony.

In one moment, they embraced just in front of the stage during a commercial break, with Ariana wrapping her arms around Ethan's neck.

Ariana communicated passion with her eyes alone earlier in the ceremony when she introduced the show by channeling Judy Garland in a rendition of The Wizard Of Oz's Somewhere Over The Rainbow.

After she wrapped up, Cynthia paid tribute to their Oscar-nominated film by performing a song from Wicked.

Ariana was briefly glimpsed just off to the side of the stage as she looked affectionately at her friend and costar wowing the audience.

Ariana's dress featured a hard, rippling layer over her tulle skirt that made it easy for her to rest her belongings on it

During some downtime, Jeff Goldblum, who plays the Wizard in Wicked, was seen displaying his phone to his wife Emilie Livingston; pictured with fans on the red carpet

But photos snapped of him from behind revealed that Goldblum was hilariously swiping through his own red carpet photos

His costar Ariana was also the subject of one of the sweetest behind-the-scene images

She was accompanied by her boyfriend and Wicked costar Ethan Slater, who put on a supportive performance. Both showed off plenty of PDA at the ceremony

In one moment, they embraced just in front of the stage during a commercial break, with Ariana wrapping her arms around Ethan's neck

Ariana was briefly glimpsed just off to the side of the stage as she looked affectionately at Cynthia Erivo while she sang

There were lighter moments, too, such as when Best Actor nominee Colman Domingo led the audience in a toast during a commercial break.

He was toasting LA itself to honor the city after devastating fires that swept through part of it in January.

But then the actor, who looked outstanding in a red-and-black double-breasted tux, showed off his winning charisma by convincing a solid chunk of the audience to get up and dance before the show started up again.

The evening's host, Conan O'Brien, may have shocked some viewers with a risque joke about Kendrick Lamar and Drake, but he won rave reviews from viewers at home and also proved himself to be a class act.

Ramin Setoodeh, co-editor-in-chief of Variety, revealed that Conan had left a note for each Oscars attendee under their seat, along with a box with snacks and a beverage to help them make it through the notoriously long show.

'Dear star/seat filler  I hope you enjoy these complimentary snacks. I tried my best to include a gummy but Disney said that was a "hard pass," he joked.

The note also included a doodle of the comedian.

Timothee Chalamet enjoyed a sweet moment with his girlfriend Kylie Jenner that viewers at home never saw.

While you guys were watching commercials, Colman Domigo came out to offer a toast to Los Angeles, then made people get up and dance. Some of them did? pic.twitter.com/ShLMD2s4Bi  Vulture (@vulture) March 3, 2025

Theres a note from Conan under every #Oscars seat with a snack box of water and a pretzel. pic.twitter.com/kvcjkT4fRw  Ramin Setoodeh (@RaminSetoodeh) March 2, 2025

Timothee Chalamet enjoyed a sweet moment with his girlfriend Kylie Jenner that viewers at home never saw. After he lost Best Actor, he turned back to her for a passionate kiss

Timothee Chalamet and Kylie Jenner kiss after the Best Actor #Oscar was announced. #AwardsSeason pic.twitter.com/gTpuchT5sa  E! News (@enews) March 3, 2025

Despite the fact that he was competing for one of the top prizes, Timothee looked surprisingly chummy with the other Best Actor nominees when they posed for a photo together

Ana de Armas watching Zoe Saldanas speech as she wins the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress | #Oscars pic.twitter.com/GR0ryWDiDa  Deadline (@DEADLINE) March 3, 2025

The Complete Unknown star lost out on the Best Actor honor to The Brutalist's Adrien Brody, but he got a consolation prize with a kiss from the reality star.

She was seated directly behind him so that he had a prime spot in the front row in case his name was called, but after it was clear that he hadn't won, he turned back toward Kylie, who leaned forward for a passionate embrace while caressing his face.

Despite the fact that he was competing for one of the top prizes, Timothee looked surprisingly chummy with the other Best Actor nominees when they posed for a photo together.

The five men all huddled together, with Adrien standing in the center while Sing Sing star Colman Domingo and Conclave's Ralph Fiennes flanked him.

The Apprentice's Sebastian Stan stood on one end of the group, while Timothee was unmissable on the other end thanks to his neon yellow suit.

Former Oscar nominee Ana de Armas didn't attend the ceremony this year, but she was seen looking captivated at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party in video posted to social media showing her watching a television playing Zoe Saldana's acceptance speech.

Viewers at home still saw plenty of dramatic moments, such as when Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins, including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Zoe Kravitz left little to the imagination in a 'business-in-the-front' and 'party-in-the-back' type of dress at this year's Vanity Fair Oscar Party.

On Sunday, the 36-year-old actress joined in on the festivities as she walked the star-studded red carpet at the iconic afterparty following the annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles.

She showcased unconventional cleavage as she covered up her front and showed off her backside in a long, black gown with a mesh-lined cutout.

Her long-sleeved, satin dress featured a backless silhouette with rhinestone-encrusted mesh that showed off the tattoos tracing her spine and adorning her shoulder blades.

Between the V-cut and bum-baring keyhole, there was a small bow placed right at the small of her back.

The Blink Twice director  who is rumored to be dating Noah Centineo, 28, months after ending her engagement to Channing Tatum  also showed off a hint of her toned legs in the dress with a sexy leg slit in the back.

Zoe Kravitz left little to the imagination in a 'business-in-the-front' and 'party-in-the-back' type of dress at this year's Vanity Fair Oscar Party

On Sunday, the 36-year-old actress joined in on the festivities as she walked the star-studded red carpet at the iconic afterparty. She showcased unconventional cleavage as she covered up her front and showed off her backside in a long, black gown with a mesh-lined cutout

Teamed with the chic and unique dress, she donned a pair of slingback pumps with a tall stiletto heel.

To showcased the back of her glamorous dress in all of its entirety, she styled her dark hair in a updo.

Kravitz pulled her tresses back into a polished, low bun and left out a single tendril to frame her face.

For jewelry, she sported dangling, silver earrings with stacks of diamond rings and matching bracelets.

The gems on her bracelets, which she wore on both wrists, matched the sequin pattern of the mesh details on her dress.

The Batman star looked radiant in a light and dewy makeup look with soft, pink blush and a peachy nude, matte lip.

Recently, Kravitz fueled romance rumors after being spotted during a late-night hangout with Noah Centineo.

Meanwhile, her ex-fiance Channing Tatum is rumored to be dating model Inka Williams.

Her long-sleeved, satin dress featured a backless silhouette with rhinestone-encrusted mesh that showed off the tattoos tracing her spine and adorning her shoulder blades

To showcased the back of her glamorous dress in all of its entirety, she styled her dark hair in a updo. Kravitz pulled her tresses back into a polished, low bun and left out a single tendril to frame her face

For jewelry, she sported dangling, silver earrings with stacks of diamond rings and a matching bracelet

Between the V-cut and bum-baring keyhole, there was a small bow placed right at the small of her back. The Blink Twice director also showed off a hint of her toned legs in the dress with a sexy leg slit in the back

The gems on her bracelets, which she wore on both wrists, matched the sequin pattern of the mesh details on her dress

The Batman star looked radiant in a light and dewy makeup look with soft, pink blush and a peachy nude, matte lip

Kravitz was previously in a relationship with Tatum for three years before their split was revealed in October 2024.

The pair had gotten engaged one year earlier after sparking up a romance on the set of her directorial debut film, Blink Twice.

Less than a week ago, Kravitz spoke about Tatum for the first time in the four months since their breakup.

'I love this thing that we made together,' she said about their movie in an interview with Elle published on February 25. 'And I care for him very much.'

Gushing about her ex, she continued: 'Even when you bring up how great his performance is, it warms my heart to hear that, and I'm so happy that all of it happened. I just feel so grateful that we got to go on that journey together.'

She also sang high praises about the actor and said she is looking forward to what's in store for him in the future.

'He has so much more coming, and I think he's in a place as an actor where he's feeling really confident and people are seeing different sides of him.'

Kravitz added, 'He's got a lot to offer, so I'm excited for people to keep witnessing that.'
Nicky Hilton make a superstar entrance at Elton John's AIDS Foundation Academy Awards party on Sunday night.

The socialite arrived in style wearing beloved Australian designer Rebecca Vallance.

The 41-year-old worked her angles on the red carpet in a breathtaking custom white gown.

This exclusive creation was a collaboration between Hilton and Vallance.

Vallance said it brought together Hilton's eye for classic Hollywood style and her expertise in structured yet feminine silhouettes.

The custom ivory gown included silver claw crystals embellished down the centre front panel.

Nicky Hilton make a superstar entrance at Elton John 's AIDS Foundation Academy Awards party on Sunday night

The socialite arrived in style wearing beloved Australian designer Rebecca Vallance

The 41-year-old worked her angles on the red carpet in a breathtaking custom white gown

It also featured a fitted mini skirt underneath, complete with a hand draped origami overlay and bonded crepe sleeves designed to flare at the hem.

The cuffs of the dress was constructed with half-dome dozen buttons on the inside and the dress took 12 hours to complete.

The embellished tulle neckline detail featured hand-embellished claw crystals that gave an effect ombre down the neckline was all applied by hand.

'I absolutely loved collaborating with Rebecca on this dress' Nicky told Daily Mail Australia.

'After the joy of designing our Holiday collection last year, it felt like a natural evolution to team up again for an iconic red-carpet moment.

'Every detail of this dress is so special  it's the perfect look for Hollywood's most glamorous night'.

Meanwhile, Vallance said of the pair's creative partnership: 'Nicky has such an effortless, refined style.

'We were excited to collaborate again for such a special evening - designing this gown together was a dream, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the result.'

Vallance said it brought together Hilton's eye for classic Hollywood style and her expertise in structured yet feminine silhouettes

The custom ivory gown included silver claw crystals embellished down the centre front panel

It also featured a fitted mini skirt underneath, complete with a hand draped origami overlay and bonded crepe sleeves designed to flare at the hem

Nickys Peroni Purse was also custom and was designed by Judith Leiber just for her. The one-of-a-kind handbag featuring over 10,000 crystals took over 80 hours to create

Nickys Peroni Purse was also custom and was designed by Judith Leiber just for her.

The one-of-a-kind handbag featuring over 10,000 crystals took over 80 hours to create.

Nicky and Rebecca launched a new collection together late last year.

The Holiday capsule collection, which comprised of 31 looks, is available globally and priced between $749 and $1,299 AUD.

The range features the brand's iconic cuts - mini, midi and gowns - as well as a new silhouettes in the form of a lace jumpsuit.

Vallance's hand embroidered diamante bow applique designs, pearls and floral applique details are also heavily featured in the collection.

It is stocked around the world in Mytheresa, Saks (US), Revolve (US), Harrods (UK), Bloomingdales Dubai and Kuwait, and Eraldo (IT).

The partnership marked the first time the label has opened up to a collaborator in this way.
Lindsay Lohan's face looked smoother and more taut than ever when she arrived at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party this Sunday.

The 38-year-old has stunned fans with her youthful appearance at recent public events, amid a resurgence in her career after years away from Hollywood.

Lohan's glow-up has sparked a debate among fans who have been trying to figure out what procedures the star may have done to achieve the vibrant look.

Amid the torrent of conjecture, the Mean Girls star was a scene-stealing figure at the star-studded Vanity Fair fete this weekend.

Thrown in Beverly Hills, the annual blowout bash is one of the most coveted invites in showbiz, almost as much as the awards show itself.

Making her presence felt at the beano in a simply elegant white dress, Lohan proved that her comeback is well and truly underway.

Lindsay Lohan's face looked smoother and more taut than ever when she arrived at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party this Sunday

She accentuated her changing features with makeup, emphasizing the doll-like appearance of her face with her choice of cosmetics.

Lohan attended the fete on the arm of her financier husband Bader Shammas, with whom she shares a one-year-old son called Luai.

The couple currently reside in Shammas' hometown of Dubai, where he holds a position as assistant vice president at Credit Suisse.

A couple of months ago, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Barrett said he was 'stumped' by Lohan's makeover, and shared a playful extraterrestrial theory on what may be responsible for the actress' metamorphosis.

In a video shared to his Instagram page, Dr. Barrett  who specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery  was asked to rank celebrity plastic surgery from 1-8.

When asked about Lohan, he replied, 'I don't even know if that's plastic surgery, or if she was abducted by aliens. So you can't even put that one on there.'

Dr. Barrett continued trying to pin down Lindsay's transformation in yet another Instagram video, saying she looked like a 'completely different person' and joking there may be an 'alien invasion' happening.

'What the eff is going on,' he asked, praising the star for looking, 'a lot different and much improved.'

The 38-year-old has stunned fans with her youthful appearance at recent public events, amid a resurgence in her career after years away from Hollywood

Lohan's glow-up has sparked a debate among fans who've been trying to figure out what procedures the star may have done to achieve the vibrant look

Amid the torrent of conjecture, the Mean Girls star was a scene-stealing figure at the star-studded Vanity Fair fete this weekend

Lohan attended the fete on the arm of her financier husband Bader Shammas, with whom she shares a one-year-old son called Luai

Lindsay Lohan's recent transformation has a celebrity plastic surgeon convinced that she's been 'abducted by aliens'; (L) seen in August, (R) seen in 2012

'I personally am stumped here. I don't know what the eff is going on because she looks so dramatically different from even just a couple years ago. You know, overfilled, kind of frumpy facial feature.'

He went on: 'I mean, you know, she's still a beautiful woman, but you know there's certain things about her cheek that are just really exaggerated that you typically see, and she has a tired and aged appearance back in 2020, and 2022.'

'And then in 2024 her skin looks completely tight. I don't even see any of the nasal labial folds.'

He then wondered if the star perhaps 'just backed off all the filler, got everything dissolved... and did some dramatic skin tightening, combined with some weight loss, maybe Ozempic, some really good makeup.'

He stated that Lohan's 'eyes are tighter, they look completely different. Eyebrows look completely different. The lips, they look smaller and tighter. The chin looks more defined. This looks like a completely different person.'

'Maybe it's an alien invasion, I don't know, coming in as Lindsay Lohan's new look. You tell me.'

The Mean Girls star has stunned fans with her youthful appearance at recent public events, amid a resurgence in her career after years away from Hollywood; seen in November

Most recently, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Barrett said he was 'stumped' by her makeover, and joked that aliens may be responsible

Dr. Barrett was asked to rank celebrity plastic surgery. When asked about Lohan, he replied, 'I don't even know if that's plastic surgery, or if she was abducted by aliens'

Dr. Barrett continued trying to pin down Lindsay's transformation in yet another Instagram video, saying she looked like a 'completely different person' and joking there may be an 'alien invasion' happening

Fans in the comments appeared to agree, with one writing: 'I want whatever Lohan had what aliens do I call'

Many also compared Lindsay's look to Christina Aguilera's recent glow-up

'Lets hear more about Lindsey as kind-a-doubting she's been abducted by Aliens,' another asked

'She doesn't count! It's not fair to the other candidates who don't have the aliens' number to call them,' someone else wrote

When his assistant asked if he thought Lohan had a facelift, he appeared flabbergasted and replied, 'uhh, yeah, sure, I mean, I don't know. I don't know what the hell she got.'

The caption of the post read: 'Lindsay Lohans transformation has everyone guessing!  From her radiant glow to a refreshed, natural look, fans cant stop speculating about what shes doneor hasnt done. Whether its good lighting, self-care, or subtle enhancements, one things for sure: shes absolutely thriving.'

Fans in the comments appeared to agree, with one writing: 'I want whatever Lohan had what aliens do I call.'

'Lets hear more about Lindsey as kind-a-doubting shes been abducted by Aliens -what is going on here - obviously gorgeously accomplished,' another added.

Others jokes that Lindsay 'doesn't count' because her transformation is simply too good to rate.

'She doesn't count! It's not fair to the other candidates who don't have the aliens' number to call them,' one person wrote.

Many also compared Lindsay's look to Christina Aguilera's recent glow-up.

'Christina is also on alien abduction level lol she looks amazing right next to Lohan,' one wrote.

This comes after her father, Michael Lohan, denied his daughter had ever had plastic surgery, but revealed she had done 'peels, fillers and Botox'; (L) seen November, (R) seen in 2012

Lohan's glow-up has sparked a debate among fans who've been trying to figure out what procedures the star may have done to achieve the vibrant look; seen in August

Dr. Jonny Betteridge, an aesthetics doctor, recently claimed the star could have spent up to 300K in plastic surgery procedures to achieve the look

Earlier this month Lindsay showed off her glowing and youthful face in a new selfie with anti-aging specialist Dr. Radmila Lukian.

Lukian is the founder of the Lucia Aesthetic & Dermatology Center in Dubai, where Lindsay resides with her husband Bader Shammas and their son Luai, 16 months.

'With my dear @dr radmila Lucian for some skin care time,' she wrote on the snap, shared to her Stories.

This comes after her father, Michael Lohan, denied his daughter had ever had plastic surgery, but revealed she had done 'peels, fillers and Botox.'

'Lindsay never had any plastic surgery done ever. Her look [is] so natural  just like her talent,' he told Page Six.

Previously, Dr. Jonny Betteridge, an aesthetics doctor, has claimed the star could have spent up to 300K in plastic surgery procedures to achieve the look.

Betteridge, who is the founder of the London based clinic JB Aesthetics, and has a background in Emergency Medicine, Intensive Care and Anaesthetics, shared an Instagram video listing the cosmetic tweaks he believes the actress has undergone.

Among the surgical procedures Betteridge believes the Parent Trap star has had are a face lift, an upper eyelid surgery, a nose job, and a surgical brow lift.

This week she shared another flawless selfie to Instagram

Earlier this month Lindsay showed off her glowing and youthful face in a selfie with anti-aging specialist Dr. Radmila Lukian

Lindsay's face has looked flawless and taut during recent outings; pictured in November

He stated that she most likely had 'some degree of surgical facelift' and it was likely done via an 'endoscopic approach', meaning it was minimally invasive.

He also think the actress had 'botox, lip lift, lip fillers, and veneers.'

Betteridge also analyzed Lohan's skin in her latest photos and came to the conclusion that she has done 'laser resurfacing' and had 'a dermatologist led skincare routine.'

'And the cost of this, if you combine everything together, would be in the range of $200-300K.'

Lindsay's face has looked flawless and taunt during recent outings.

The star revealed her low maintenance skincare routine in an October chat with Allure.

The Mean Girls actress said her main beauty focus is 'taking care of my skin' but admitted to dabbling with 'laser, Morpheus and IPL' in the past.

In the morning she uses a cold face towel and Avene Redness Expert Soothing Moisturizing Concentrated Cream or the brands Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream - which she praised for being 'lightweight and hydrating and not overly greasy.'

The star's Paris Fashion Week appearance was dubbed 'an iconic comeback' by style commentators earlier this month when she cut a glamorous figure in a black sequin dress

She also uses Peter Thomas Roth eye patches to de-puff her eyes.

Her go-to make-up look is 'pretty light' with the star saying: 'If I wear anything, its Giorgio Armani Silk foundation or Kevyn Aucoin concealer. Maybe some eyeshadow if Im going out, and Westman Atelier mascara.

'One thing Ive embraced more since becoming a mom is going out naturally and not feeling the need to put something on my face all the time. I think we live under pressure to look made-up, but I dont feel that way anymore. I just want to look at myself and love myself for who I am.'

At night Lohan uses 'Aveeno face wipes, some Avene face wash and then the redness cream at night again because after I take everything off, I get a little pink.'
Cara Delevingne and her pal Margaret Qualley couldn't keep their hands off each other as they warmly greeted at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party.

The model, 32, and the actress, 30, showed their affection for one another as they hung out at at the Wallis Annenberg Center in Beverly Hills on Sunday evening.

Cara and Margaret wrapped their arms around each other's waists as they posed for a selection of fun pictures at the party.

The prestigious bash attracts the creme de la creme of the A-list and Cara was among a string of star-studded attendees that made the guest list.

And earlier in the evening, Cara put on a cool display in a strapless denim dress with matching sleeves, as she posed up a storm on the red carpet.

Smouldering Cara wore her blonde locks in a sleek loose style, while enhancing her pretty features with a coat of glamorous make-up.

Cara Delevingne and her pal Margaret Qualley couldn't keep their hands off each other as they warmly greeted at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party

The model, 32, and the actress, 30, showed their affection for one another as they hung out at at the Wallis Annenberg Center in Beverly Hills on Sunday evening

Earlier in the evening, Cara put on a cool display in a strapless denim dress with matching sleeves, as she posed up a storm on the red carpet

The British native accessorised her look with a silver chain necklace and a selection of chunky costume-style rings.

Meanwhile, Margaret looked equally stunning in a red satin halter neck dress, which featured a daring thigh slit up the leg.

The legendary bash, which takes place in Beverly Hills, is a celebration of the evening and gathers many of the biggest names in Hollywood.

The guest list included comedians and other public figures like Renee Rapp, Selma Blair, Monica Lewinsky, Seth Rogen and Chelsea Handler.

The party kicks off once the awards have wrapped up, where this year Anora took home Best Picture as well as Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Anora's writer and director earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

The prestigious bash attracts the creme de la creme of the A-list and Cara was among a string of star-studded attendees that made the guest list

Smouldering Cara wore her blonde locks in a sleek loose style, while enhancing her pretty features with a coat of glamorous make-up

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Demi Moore displayed her smooth complexion in a flawless Instagram snap ahead of the Oscars on Sunday evening.

The actress, 62, showed off her age-defying looks after having her makeup done by Charlotte Tilbury's niece Sofia, who used the celerity makeup artists' products.

Later on the red carpet, Demi put on a glamorous display in a gray-silver Armani Prive number that highlighted her incredible physique.

After the glamorous evening, Demi took off her makeup and gown, and slipped into a white robe.

She couldn't contain her smile as she tucked into two huge bowls of chips, while holding her beloved pooch Pilaf.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi Moore displayed her smooth complexion in a flawless Instagram snap ahead of the Oscars on Sunday evening

She couldn't contain her smile as she tucked into two huge bowls of chips, while holding her beloved pooch Pilaf

She had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: ' I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

She concluded her speech by recognizing her fellow nominees including A-lister Demi.

The actress, 62, showed off her age-defying looks after having her makeup done by Charlotte Tilbury's niece Sofia, who used the celerity makeup artists' products

Later on the red carpet, Demi put on a glamorous display in a gray-silver Armani Prive number that highlighted her incredible physique

Her long raven tresses were styled in loose curls and she accessorised with dazzling silver drop earrings

Mikey said: 'I also just want to recognize the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of my fellow nominees. I'm honored to be recognized alongside all of you.

'This is a dream come true, I'm probably going to wake up tomorrow. Thank you so much, Sean [Baker], I adore you. This is all because of you. Thank you.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Mikey, 25, won the Best Actress award for her role as a sex worker in the drama Anora

Adam Brody, Mikey, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin scooped the top four acting awards

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

During his acceptance speech Adrien surpassed his allotted 45seconds for his acceptance speech as he referenced his previous Oscar win.

He said: 'And I'm wrapping up, please turn the music off. I've done this before. Thank you. It's not my first rodeo, but I will will be brief. I will not be egregious, I promise.

'You know, I am -- I'm oddly -- I have to thank my mom and dad who are here, as well. And they've given me -- they just created just such a strong foundation of respect. And of kindness and wonderful spirit, and they have given me the strength to pursue this dream.'

Adrien referenced the state of the world as he concluded his speech with a powerful message.

He concluded: 'I'm here once again to represent the lingering traumas and the repercussions of war and systematic oppression. And of anti-semitism and racism and of othering, and I believe that -- I pray for a healthier and a happier and a more inclusive world, and I believe if the past can teach us anything, it's a reminder to not let hate go unchecked.

'Okay, I'll get out of here. I love you. I appreciate you all. Let's fight for what's right. Keep smiling, keep loving one another. Let's rebuild together. Thank you.'

In The Brutalist the talented actress portrays visionary architect Laszlo Toth who flees post-war Europe with his wife Erzsebet (Felicity Jones) in 1947 to rebuild their legacy and witness the birth of modern United States, their lives are changed forever by a mysterious, wealthy client.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003 where he infamously kissed Halle Berry .

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

She had been tipped to win the Best Actress award for her role in The Substance but lost to Mikey in a shock upset on the night

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

She said: ' My grandmother came to this country in 1961 -- I am a proud child of immigrant parents. With dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I am the first American on Dominican origin to accept an academy award, and I know I will not be the last. I hope.

'The fact that I'm getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish, my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted, this is for my grandmother. Thank you so much. Thank you.'

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

In Emilia Perez, Zoe plays Rita Mora Castro who is a lawyer as the film is centered around four remarkable women pursuing their individual happiness in Mexico.

Cartel leader Emilia (played by Gascon) enlists Rita, an unappreciated lawyer, to help fake her death so that she can finally live authentically as her true self.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

A Real Pain - directed and written by Jesse Eisenberg - stars Eisenberg and Culkin as mismatched cousins who reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother, but their old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

Kieran started out his acceptance speech by acknowledging Strong - who portrayed his brother Kendall Roy on the highly-popular HBO series - with profanity as the broadcast had bleeped much of the acknowledgement.

He said: 'Jeremy you're amazing in The Apprentice, I love your work, it's f***ing - there we go, I cursed, I didn't mean to, and I'm not supposed to single anyone out as favouritism, but you were great.

'And I've already lost whatever speech I prepared, 20 seconds in.'

He finished off the speech by acknowledging his wife Jazz Charton and shared a sweet story which began: 'I love you, Jazz. I have to thank my wife Jazz.

'Please don't play the music, because I want to tell a really quick story about Jazz.'

The couple share two children: a 5-year-old daughter Kinsey Sioux, and a 3-year-old son Wilder Wolf.

Kieran continued: 'A year ago, I said that I want a third kid, because she said if I won the award, she would give me the kid. Turns out she said that because she didn't think I was going to win. But -- and people came up to me and were like, you know, really annoying her, it got to her.

'But anyway -- after the show we're walking through a parking lot, she's holding the Emmy, she goes, oh, god, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid. I turned to her, I said, really, I want four. And she turned to me, I swear to god this happened, she said, I will give you four when you win an Oscar.

'I held my hand out, she shook it and I have not brought it up once until just now. You remember that, honey? Then I just have to say to you, jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith -- No pressure. I love you. I'm really sorry I did this again. And let's get cracking on those kids, what do you say? I love you. I love. I love you.'

A Real Pain - directed and written by Jesse Eisenberg - stars Eisenberg and Culkin as mismatched cousins who reunite for a tour through Poland to honor their beloved grandmother, but their old tensions resurface against the backdrop of their family history.

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked.

The 60-year-old American costume designer for the theatre, dance, and opera and television was up against: A Complete Unknown  Arianne Phillips, Conclave  Lisy Christl, Gladiator II  Janty Yates and Dave Crossman, and Nosferatu  Linda Muir.

Paul was emotional during his acceptance speech as he said: ' This is absolutely astounding. Thank you, academy. For this very significant honor. I'm the first Black man to receive costume design award. For my work on Wicked. I'm so proud of this.

The show began with an incredible medley from Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande

'Thank you everyone in the UK for all of your beautiful work. I could not have done this without you. My Ozian muses, Cynthia and Ariana, I love you so much. All the other cast, thank you, thank you, thank you for trusting me with bringing your characters to life. This is everything.'

No Other Land earned Best Documentary as the directors gave a speech about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Selena Gomez, 32, and Samuel L. Jackson, 76, presented the best documentary award to the four activists who made the movie, two of them Israeli and two Palestinian.

No Other Land is fiercely critical of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and stars two of its directors - Palestinian Basel Adra and Israeli Yuval Abraham.

He won over: A Complete Unknown  James Mangold and Jay Cocks, Emilia Perez  Jacques Audiard with Thomas Bidegain, Lea Mysius and Nicolas Livecchi, Nickel Boys  RaMell Ross & Joslyn Barnes, and Sing Sing  Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar; Story by Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, John 'Divine G' Whitfield.

The show began with an incredible medley from Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

The Academy Awards are honoring the best films of 2024, with the star-studded ceremony being held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood .
Julia Garner looked ethereal in a white feathered dress as she attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party at the Wallis Annenberg Center in Beverly Hills on Sunday.

The actress, 31, who is known for her leading role in Inventing Anna, stunned as she went braless in the halter neck gown to grace the red carpet.

She channeled old Hollywood glamour and styled her short blonde tresses into a tight perm.

To accessorise, the star paired her backless dress with a pair of diamond encrusted earrings.

Julia appeared delighted to be at the party as she was seen blowing her fans a kiss as she disappeared inside for the evening.

The guest list included comedians and other public figures like Renee Rapp, Selma Blair, Monica Lewinsky, Seth Rogen and Chelsea Handler.

Julia Garner, 31, looked ethereal in a white feathered dress as she attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party at the Wallis Annenberg Center in Beverly Hills on Sunday

The actress, who is known for her leading role in Inventing Anna, stunned as she went braless in the halter neck gown to grace the red carpet

The party kicks off once the awards have wrapped up, where this year Anora took home Best Picture as well as Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Anora's writer and director earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez and Adrian Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

She channeled old Hollywood glamour and styled her short blonde tresses into a tight perm with thick winglets

To accessorise, the star paired her backless dress with a pair of diamond encrusted leaf-shaped earrings

Julia appeared delighted to be at the party as she was seen blowing her fans a kiss as she disappeared inside for the evening

She was pictured leaving at the end of the night

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Demi Moore and Sydney Sweeney suffered an awkward fashion blunder at the Vanity Fair Oscars bash on Sunday night as they arrived in nearly the same dress.

While both actresses looked sensational in their respective looks, Demi and Sydney's glittering halterneck gowns were strikingly similar in style.

Both sequin dresses featured cut out sections across the bust, teasing their ample cleavage as well as a high halter neck cut.

Their stunning gowns were cinched at the waist to reveal their svelte frames and both of the floor-length outfits cascaded down to the ground.

Demi's version of the dress was a glittering gold colour, while Sydney, 27, was sporting a pale pink version of the number.

Both women wore their long locks in a loose style and enhanced their looks with glamorous make-up.

Demi Moore and Sydney Sweeney suffered an awkward fashion blunder at the Vanity Fair Oscars bash on Sunday night as they arrived in nearly the same dress

While both actresses looked sensational in their respective looks, Demi and Sydney's glittering halterneck gowns were strikingly similar in style

Both sequin dresses featured cut out sections across the bust, teasing their ample cleavage as well as a high halter neck cut

While Sydney kept her look accessory free, Demi added a pair of gold drop earrings and a bangle to complete her glam ensemble.

Despite losing out on her hotly-tipped Best Actress win, Demi was still all smile as she arrived with grace to the prestigious bash.

The legendary bash, which takes place in Beverly Hills, is a celebration of the evening and gathers many of the biggest names in Hollywood.

The guest list included comedians and other public figures like Renee Rapp, Selma Blair, Monica Lewinsky, Seth Rogen and Chelsea Handler.

The party kicks off once the awards have wrapped up, where this year Anora took home Best Picture as well as Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Anora's writer and director earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Their stunning gowns were cinched at the waist to reveal their svelte frames and both of the floor-length outfits cascaded down to the ground

Demi's version of the dress was a glittering gold colour, while Sydney, 27, was sporting a pale pink version of the number

Both women wore their long locks in a loose style and enhanced their looks with glamorous make-up

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Kendall Jenner and her sister Kim Kardashian looked as glamorous as ever as they attended the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night.

The supermodel, 29, was all smiles as she partied with her older sibling Kim, 44, at the star-studded night in Beverly Hills.

Despite not attending the awards show itself, Kendall was sure to make heads turn in a sheer black gown which featured long sleeves and an internal corset.

She teamed the stunning ensemble with a pair of patent leather shoes and dangling earrings.

Meanwhile Kim looked glamorous in a dramatic wedding-gown inspired Balenciaga dress.

The gown boasted a classic princess silhouette, with a fitted bodice that flared dramatically into a full, voluminous skirt.

Kendall Jenner, (left), and her sister Kim Kardashian looked as glamorous as ever as they attended the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night

The supermodel, 29, was all smiles as she partied with her older sibling Kim, 44, at the star-studded night in Beverly Hills

The pair appeared in high spirits as they posed for snaps inside the event and mingled with their celebrity pals.

The guest list included comedians and other public figures like Renee Rapp, Selma Blair, Monica Lewinsky, Seth Rogen and Chelsea Handler.

The party kicks off once the awards have wrapped up, where this year Anora took home Best Picture as well as Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Anora's writer and director earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

The sisters both wowed as they posed for snaps with Stephanie Suganami during the glamorous event

The girls all appeared to be in high spirits as they turned heads in their eye-catching outfits

During the night Kim and Kendall were spotted talking to their sister Kyle's boyfriend Timothee Chalamet

Kylie was also at the event as she dazzled in a black lace corset dress next to her boyfriend Timothee

Earlier in the evening Kendall posed up a storm on the red carpet

She looked nothing short of sensational as she ensured all eyes were on her

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Demi Moore and Mikey Madison appeared to avoid each other as they both attended the Vanity Fair Oscars Party at the Wallis Annenberg Center, after competing against each other for Best Actress.

Mikey, 25, triumphed over Demi, 62, Fernanda Torres, Karla Sofia Gascon, and Cynthia Erivo, to win the coveted gong for her starring performance in Anora.

Her win came as a slight surprise to many as Demi had been seen as the frontrunner to take home the trophy for The Substance after winning all the major awards - bar the BAFTA - in the run up to Sunday's ceremony.

And the actress couldn't hide her disappointment, with cameras capturing her looking crushed as her name wasn't called, clenching her jaw and muttering a one-word reaction as she politely clapped for Mikey.

However, despite losing out on her first Oscar, Demi was still all smiles as she arrived with grace to the Vanity Fair party.

But in another blow, she risked being upstaged for the second time that night as Sydney Sweeney arrived at the prestigious bash in nearly the same dress.

Demi Moore (left) and Mikey Madison (right) appeared to avoid each other as they both attended the Vanity Fair Oscars Party at the Wallis Annenberg Center, after competing against each other for Best Actress

Her win came as a slight surprise as Demi had been seen as the frontrunner to take home the trophy for The Substance after winning all the major awards - bar the BAFTA - in the run up

And she couldn't hide her disappointment, with cameras capturing her looking crushed, clenching her jaw and muttering a one-word reaction as she politely clapped for Mikey (seen)

While both actresses looked sensational in their respective looks, Demi and Sydney's glittering halterneck gowns were strikingly similar in style.

Both sequin dresses featured cut out sections across the bust, teasing their ample cleavage as well as a high halter neck cut.

Their stunning gowns were also both cinched at the waist to reveal their svelte frames and both of the floor-length outfits cascaded down to the ground.

But while Demi's number was a glittering gold colour, Sydney, 27, opted for a pale pink version.

Meanwhile, the Ghost star was notably not photographed near Mikey inside the party, with the rising star instead being seen celebrating with her Anora cast and crew.

The actress oozed Hollywood glamour at the bash as she arrived in a plunging black gown, cinched in at the waist and a matching shawl draped over her arms.

She added an eye-catching diamond and ruby necklace and beamed widely as she proudly held up her Oscar statuette, freshly engraved with her name.

Mikey was joined by her Anora co-stars Mark Eydelshteyn and Yura Borisov and fellow winners director Sean Baker and his producer wife Alex Coco, who also proudly displayed their four awards.

However, despite losing out on her first Oscar, Demi was still all smiles as she arrived with grace to the Vanity Fair party

But in another blow, she risked being upstaged for the second time that night as Sydney Sweeney (right) arrived at the prestigious bash in nearly the same dress

Both sequin dresses featured cut out sections across the bust as well as a high halter neck cut and floor-length skirts, but Demi's version was gold and Sydney's pale pink

BRIT Awards 2025: Winners at a glance Artist of the year: Charli XCX Album of the year: Charli XCX - Brat Song of the year: Charli XCX featuring Billie Eilish - Guess Best dance act: Charli XCX Songwriter of the Year: Charli XCX Best alternative/rock act: Sam Fender Best hip-hop/grime/rap act: Stormzy Best pop act: Jade Best R&B act: Raye Global Success Award: Sabrina Carpenter Group of the year: Ezra Collective Best new artist: The Last Dinner Party International artist of the year: Chappell Roan International group of the year: Fontaines D.C. International song of the year: Chappell Roan - Good Luck, Babe! Rising star: Myles Smith Producer of the Year: AG Cook Advertisement

They became the fourth married couple to win the coveted Best Picture prize, a year after spouses Christopher Nolan and Emma Thomas won the same award for Oppenheimer, while Sean also picked up the gongs for Director, Editing and Screenplay.

Mikey was also seen mingling with Best Actor winner Adrien Brody at the bash and shared a sweet hug with her Scream co-star Jenna Ortega.

While Demi chose to commiserate with her three glamorous daughters Tallulah Willis, Rumer Willis and Scout Willis.

She also could be seen hanging out with Lindsay Lohan at the bash and fellow actress Joan Chen and President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Janet Yang.

Her icy reaction to her Best Actress snub went viral earlier in the evening, with some of her fans voicing their own frustration that she lost out on social media.

While many expressed their excitement and praise for Mikey, one user said Demi was 'robbed' and another called it the 'biggest snub in Oscars history.'

Demi could be seen tensely muttering a single word reaction when Mikey's name was read out, with lip reader Nicola Hickling exclusively telling DailyMail.com what she was saying.

She explained: 'Demi says "nice" but she isn't smiling when she says it. Her body is almost nodding like she had to force herself to say it.'

Meanwhile, the Ghost star was notably not photographed near Mikey inside the party, with the rising star instead being seen celebrating with her Anora cast and crew (pictured with Samantha Quan and Sean Baker)

The actress oozed Hollywood glamour at the bash as she arrived in a plunging black gown, cinched in at the waist and a matching shawl draped over her arms

She added an eye-catching diamond and ruby necklace and beamed widely as she proudly held up her Oscar statuette, freshly engraved with her name

Mikey was joined by her Anora co-stars Mark Eydelshteyn and Yura Borisov and fellow winners director Sean Baker and his producer wife Alex Coco, who also proudly displayed their awards

Mikey was also seen mingling with fellow winner Adrien Brody, who scored the win for Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist

Mikey also shared a sweet hug with her Scream co-star Jenna Ortega as the two young stars partied at the bash

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget and recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

She concluded her speech by recognizing her fellow nominees including A-lister Demi.

Mikey said: 'I also just want to recognize the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of my fellow nominees. I'm honored to be recognized alongside all of you.

'This is a dream come true, I'm probably going to wake up tomorrow. Thank you so much, Sean [Baker], I adore you. This is all because of you. Thank you.'

This year's Academy Awards saw Anora dominate the night with five wins, including Mikey's Best Actress, and writer and director Sean's Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and Best Director.

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

While Demi chose to commiserate with her three glamorous daughters Tallulah Willis , Rumer Willis and Scout Willis (L-R)

She also could be seen hanging out with Lindsay Lohan at the bash, posing for a glamorous photo together

And she beamed beside fellow actress Joan Chen (right) and President of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Janet Yang (left)

Her icy reaction to her Best Actress snub went viral earlier in the evening, with some of her fans voicing their own frustration that she lost out on social media

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch.

Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Kieran Culkin, who kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Adrien scored the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist, making his second win the category, and stopped the exit music from playing as he gave a lengthy speech.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian, 51, previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe shook off the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget and recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech

This year's Academy Awards saw Anora dominate the night with five wins, including Mikey's Best Actress, and writer and director Sean's Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani from Brooklyn who meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch (Mikey and Mark pictured in film)

Other big winners on Sunday night included Kieran Culkin, who kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain (pictured)

While Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned the Best Supporting Actress award

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran, 42, took home the first award of the night for Best Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
China digitally restores Myanmar classic film

Xinhua) 10:06, March 03, 2025

YANGON, March 2 (Xinhua) -- China digitally restored the classic Myanmar film Thu Chit (Her Love) and officially handed it over to Myanmar on Saturday.

A ceremony for the handover and premiere of the film was held in Yangon on Saturday, according to a statement released by the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar on Sunday.

The event was attended by around 160 people, including Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar Zheng Zhihong, Myanmar's Union Minister for Information U Maung Maung Ohn, and representatives from the film and media industries of both countries, the statement said.

In his speech, Zheng said that China and Myanmar have close film and television exchanges. Thu Chit was screened in China in the 1950s and participated in the Asian Film Week held in China. It is re-screened to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Myanmar, reflecting the long-lasting fraternal friendship between the two countries.

China will continue to strengthen cooperation with Myanmar in the fields of film, television and media to promote the mutual understanding between the two peoples, he said.

U Maung Maung Ohn thanked China for the digital restoration of the film, saying that Myanmar is willing to continue deepening the traditional friendship with China, it said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Steve Price was not impressed by a news story presented on Monday's episode of The Project.

The 70-year-old commentator launched a foul-mouthed spray when he heard that a young woman had paid $100 to have sneakers delivered to Ivy nightclub in Sydney just because her heels were hurting her feet.

'A Sydney woman's gone viral after using Airtasker to overcome painful high heels' co-host Georgie Tunny explained.

'At 1am she offered to may 100 bucks to anyone who would bring sneakers to the club she was at' she continued.

'Someone came through, and her followers applauded her, calling it genius hack.'

Price crinkled his face in disgust and let loose, mincing no words as he shared his opinion.

Steve Price (pictured) was not impressed by a news story presented on Monday's episode of The Project. The 70-year-old commentator launched a foul-mouthed spray when he heard that a young woman had paid $100 to have sneakers delivered to Ivy nightclub in Sydney just because her heels were hurting her feet

'Don't be stupid. That's the most ridiculous, over-privileged w**ky thing I've heard of' he said.

'That woman has too much money. She got secondhand smelly sneakers' Steve added.

Georgie however said that in her clubbing days, she would absolutely have paid that to spare her feet.

However, the journalist said that she does not wear heels at all while going out these days.

Steve celebrated his 70th birthday with viewers of The Project in January.

However, the shock jock's celebrations were upstaged by his mother Margo.

Joining the studio audience to watch as The Project paid tribute to Steve's 15 years on the show, his proud mum looked decades younger than her 90 years.

'I think I speak for the entire nation Pricey when I say she looks younger than you,' his co-host Waleed Aly joked.

'Don't be stupid. That's the most ridiculous, over-privileged w**ky thing I've heard of' he said. 'That woman has too much money. She got secondhand smelly sneakers'. Pictured: An image of a woman in heels

Steve celebrated his 70th birthday with viewers of The Project in January

Price, who introduced viewers to his mother as '90 years young', looked teary after The Project showed a series of clips celebrating his decade and a half on Channel 10's panel show.

During the segment, Margo paid her own tribute to her media veteran son, who has enjoyed a career spanning over four decades.

'He's a very generous person, different to what you see here on camera,' she said, before co-host Sarah Harris joked: 'So he wasn't grumpy as a toddler?'

'No, no, always been wonderful,' Margo responded.

At one point in the segment Price thank the show's cast and crew.

'I want to say one serious thing about it  I've been here 15 years, and working with the young people on The Project, particularly behind the scenes, but also you three,' he said referring to his co-hosts.

'And all of the ones that have come before you... But it makes me feel young, so I don't feel 70 at all, I feel about 55.'

Fans took to The Project's social media to wish Price a happy birthday, with many gushing his mother's appearance on the show.

However, the shock jock's celebrations were upstaged by his mother Margo (pictured) and her youthful looks at age 90

'Happy birthday Steve Price!! Hope you're enjoying your Special day. All the Best. Your Mum & you both look Great,' said one fan.

'I'm still getting over how AMAZING Steve's mum looks!!!,' messaged another impressed user.

'Omg his Mum!!!! Does not look her age!! Wow!' another astonished viewer chimed in online.

One more fan added: 'Happy birthday Pricey. Agree with everyone, what a stunner his mum is!'
Megan Thee Stallion left very little to the imagination on Sunday night as she attended the star-studded Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty.

The rapper, 30, ensured all eyes would be on her as she posed up a storm at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in a very revealing gown that showed off her ample assets.

Daring to go braless, Megan flashed her breasts in an emerald green gown with a cut out bodice, using lift and shape tape and nipple pasties to keep her assets secure.

The feathered garment then flared out into a full length skirt which trailed along on the ground as she walked.

She wasn't the only star daring to bare at the glamorous bash, with several celebrities stripping off on the Vanity Fair red carpet.

Megan Thee Stallion left very little to the imagination on Sunday night as she attended the star-studded Vanity Fair Oscars afterparty at at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts

The rapper, 30, ensured all eyes would be on her as she posed up a storm on the red carpet in a very revealing gown that showed off her ample assets

During the ceremony, Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

Daring to go braless, Megan flashed her breasts in an emerald green gown with a cut out bodice, using lift and shape tape and nipple pasties to keep her assets secure

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Macaulay Culkin put on a very animated display as he celebrated brother Kieran's Oscar win at Vanity Fair's star-studded after-party in Hollywood on Sunday evening.

The Home Alone star, 44, was in great spirits after his younger sibling, 42, walked away with the Best Supporting Actor gong for A Real Pain.

Macaulay whipped off his loafers and frolicked with stunning girlfriend Brenda Strong, 36, inside the VIP event which took place at the Wallis Annenberg Center.

The former child star looked dapper in his suit and posed up a storm on the red carpet before deciding to take off his shoes and walk around in socks.

Meanwhile Brenda stunned in a strapless white pleated gown which boasted a dramatic train and was accessorised with dazzling diamond earrings.

The couple, who share two sons, appeared as they cosied up together and partied the night away to celebrate Kieran's triumph.

Macaulay Culkin put on a very animated display as he celebrated brother Kieran's Oscar win with girlfriend Brenda Strong at Vanity Fair's after-party in Hollywood on Sunday evening

The Home Alone star, 44, was in great spirits after his younger sibling, 42, walked away with the Best Supporting Actor gong for A Real Pain

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

The former child star looked dapper in his suit and posed up a storm on the red carpet before deciding to take off his shoes and walk around in socks

The former child star looked dapper in his suit and posed up a storm on the red carpet before deciding to take off his shoes and walk around in socks

Meanwhile Brenda looked sensational in a strapless white pleated gown for the occasion which boasted a dramatic train and was accessorised with dazzling diamond earrings

The couple, who share two sons, appeared as they cosied up together and partied the night away to celebrate Kieran's triumph

Brothers Kieran (L) and Macaulay (R) pictured together in 2005

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Kieran Culkin passionately kissed his wife Jazz Charton at the Oscars Governors Ball after his hilarious baby confession.

The Governors Ball takes place in the Ray Dolby Ballroom immediately after the Oscars ceremony and sees stars indulge in incredible dinner and drinks.

One of the big winners of the night spotted at the exclusive after party was Succession star Culkin, 42, who took home the Best Supporting Actor gong for his role in A Real Pain.

During his speech, Culkin left the audience in hysterics as he revealed Jazz had agreed to give him a fourth child if he ever won an Academy Award.

And the moment has seemingly inspired the pair as they shared a very cosy embrace at the after party as Culkin posed with his award before planting a kiss on his wife.

Also spotted at the coveted party was Best Actor winner Adrien Brody, who shared a very sweet moment with his father Elliot.

Kieran Culkin passionately kissed his wife Jazz Charton after his hilarious baby confession at the Oscars Governors Ball following Sunday's ceremony

Culkin's winning speech inspired the pair as they shared a very cosy embrace at the after party as he posed with his award before planting a kiss on his wife

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Snaps showed Brody pull his dad in for a hug before giving him a kiss on the cheek, as Elliot proudly displayed his son's award.

The display came hours after his dad Elliot and mum Sylvia Plachy jined him and his wife on the red carpet.

Meanwhile Best Supporting Actress winner Zoe Saldana proudly posed with her gong for the film Emilia Perez at the party.

Another sweet moment at the party saw her husband Marco Perego-Saldana get his phone out to take a collection of snaps of his wife with her award.

Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, who received the nod for his role in Sing Sing, was also seen greeting a friend as he shared a cosy moment with Australian actress Jacki Weaver.

Another winner spotted having a ball at the party was surprise Best Actress Mikey Madison, who won for he role in the highly-decorated film Anora.

She posed alongside the film's producer Alex Coco who took home the Best Picture award.

Culkin took home his first Academy Award at this year's star-studded ceremony. As a reward, he reminded his wife of the wholesome promise she made to him a year ago if he ever won the coveted Oscar trophy.

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, kicked off on Sunday, March 2 at 7pm EST/4pm PST, as Hollywood's biggest stars descended upon the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, California.

Also spotted at the coveted party was Best Actor winner Adrien Brody, who shared a very sweet moment with his father Elliot

Snaps showed Brody pull his dad in for a hug before giving him a kiss on the cheek, as Elliot proudly displayed his son's award

The sweet display came hours after Adrien was joined by his dad Elliot and mum Sylvia Plachy on the red carpet

In a similarly touching moment, Adrien kissed his mum Sylivia on the forehead

Meanwhile Best Supporting Actress winner Zoe Saldana proudly posed with her gong for the film Emilia Perez at the party

Another sweet moment at the party saw her husband Marco Perego-Saldana get his phone out to take a collection of snaps of his wife with her award

Oscar nominee Colman Domingo, who received the nod for his role in Sing Sing, was also seen greeting a friend as he shared a cosy moment with Australian actress Jacki Weaver

Another winner spotted having a ball at the party was surprise Best Actress Mikey Madison, who won for he role in the highly-decorated film Anor

She posed alongside the film's producer Alex Coco who took home the Best Picture award

Joe Alwyn was another celeb seen enjoying the lavish Governors Ball bash after the ceremony

Culkin was among the list of acclaimed actors and actresses nominated for their performances this year.

While accepting the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in A Real Pain, Culkin admitted that his wife, Jazz Charton, agreed to give him a fourth child if he ever won an Academy Award.

'About a year ago, I was on a stage like this and I very stupidly, publicly said that I want a third kid from her because she said if I won the award she would give me the kid,' Culkin said on-stage while holding his Oscar statuette.

'Turns out she said that because she didn't think I was gonna win,' he jokingly shared.

'She goes, "Oh god, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid." And I turned to her and I said, "Really, I want four,"' Culkin recounted to the audience.

At that moment, he recalled Charton saying: 'I will give you four when you win an Oscar.'

Culkin then took the opportunity to remind Charton of her promise, pointing out that he has 'not brought it up once until just now.'

'But I just have this to say to you Jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith,' he joked. 'No pressure, I love you, I'm really sorry I did this again and let's get cracking on those kids. What do you say?'

The Succession star used his acceptance speech to remind his wife, Jazz Charton, that she promised to give him four children if he ever won the Oscar

Culkin and Charton walked the Oscars red carpet together on Sunday evening outside the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles

The camera cut to Charton in the crowd, as she was seen laughing at her husband's candid acceptance speech and seemingly agreed to follow through on her promise.

Back in 2012, the 36-year-old writer met Culkin at a bar in New York City. Charton, who was born in London and raised by a single mom, started dating Culkin shortly after their first meeting.

One year later, the pair eloped in Iowa while on a road trip.

These days, the couple are proud parents to five-year-old daughter Kinsey and three-year-old son Wilder Wolf.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist. Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognised the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognise and honour the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'
Kylie Jenner and her boyfriend Timothee Chalamet put on a very loved-up display at the Oscars Vanity Fair party.

The TV personality, 27, attended the star-studded event on Sunday to support her actor boyfriend, 29, who was nominated for his film A Complete Unknown.

In a rare moment of PDA between the couple, Kylie and Timothee cosied up to one another as they posed for snaps.

The pair looked besotted as Kylie nuzzled her face into Timothee's neck at the after party, held at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills.

The duo both changed outfits from their ceremony attire, with Kylie donning a a stunning figure-hugging nude and black lace corset gown.

Meanwhile Timothee ditched his bright yellow suit worn for the ceremony at Dolby Theatre in exchange for an understated black satin dinner jacket.

Kylie Jenner and her boyfriend Timothee Chalamet put on a very loved-up display at the Oscars Vanity Fair party on Sunday

The TV personality, 27, attended the star-studded event on Sunday to support her actor boyfriend, 29, who was nominated for his film A Complete Unknown

Though she skipped the red carpet, leaving Timothee to walk alongside his mother, Kylie made up for it inside, staying close to her beau as they mingled before taking their seats.

Kylie and Timothee have been an item for almost two years, with rumours of their romance first swirling in April 2023 when her car was parked outside his Beverly Hills home.

The eventually made their first public appearance at Beyonces star-studded birthday concert in September 2023, where videos circulated of them cuddling and kissing in full view of concertgoers.

The couple made their award season debut at the 81st Golden Globes last January.

Kylie's sisters Kendall Jenner and Kim Kardashian also made an appearance and looked as glamorous as ever as they attended the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night.

The supermodel, 29, was all smiles as she partied with her older sibling Kim, 44, at the star-studded night in Beverly Hills.

Despite not attending the awards show itself, Kendall was sure to make heads turn in a sheer black gown which featured long sleeves and an internal corset.

She teamed the stunning ensemble with a pair of patent leather shoes and dangling earrings.

The pair looked besotted as Kylie nuzzled her face into Timothee's neck at the after party, held at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills

The duo both changed outfits from their ceremony attire, with Kylie donning a a stunning figure-hugging nude and black lace corset gown

The makeup mogul turned heads in a barely-there, strappy black gown, exuding effortless glamour as she cozied up to Chalamet, who is nominated for Best Actor for his portrayal of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown

Though she skipped the red carpet, leaving Timothee to walk alongside his mother, Kylie made up for it inside, staying close to her beau as they mingled before taking their seats

Kendall Jenner, (left), and her sister Kim Kardashian looked as glamorous as ever as they attended the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party on Sunday night

The supermodel, 29, was all smiles as she partied with her older sibling Kim, 44, at the star-studded night in Beverly Hills

The pair appeared in high spirits as they posed for snaps inside the event and mingled with their celebrity pals.

The guest list included comedians and other public figures like Renee Rapp, Selma Blair, Monica Lewinsky, Seth Rogen and Chelsea Handler.

The party kicks off once the awards have wrapped up, where this year Anora took home Best Picture as well as Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Anora's writer and director earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Demi was left crushed as Mikey beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

The sisters both wowed as they posed for snaps with Stephanie Suganami during the glamorous event

The girls all appeared to be in high spirits as they turned heads in their eye-catching outfits

During the night Kim and Kendall were spotted talking to their sister Kyle's boyfriend Timothee Chalamet

Kylie was also at the event as she dazzled in a black lace corset dress next to her boyfriend Timothee

Earlier in the evening Kendall posed up a storm on the red carpet

She looked nothing short of sensational as she ensured all eyes were on her

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Meanwhile Kim looked glamorous in a dramatic wedding-gown inspired Balenciaga dress.

The gown boasted a classic princess silhouette, with a fitted bodice that flared dramatically into a full, voluminous skirt.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Vanessa Hudgens shared a cheeky smooch with her MLB star husband Cole Tucker as they attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Beverly Hills on Sunday.

The High School Musical alum, 35, who welcomed her first child in July 2024, has been in a relationship with Cole, 28, since 2020 and tied the knot in December 2023.

For the cosy outing Vanessa out on a leggy display as she wore a black sleeveless dress that featured a high slit up her left leg.

Her garment commanded attention as it featured a large feathered design across the chest.

She added inches to her petite frame and slipped into a pair of black strappy platform heels.

Meanwhile, her husband opted to match his wife and stepped out in a black two-piece suit over a black T-shirt.

Vanessa Hudgens shared a cheeky smooch with her MLB star husband Cole Tucker as they attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Beverly Hills on Sunday

The High School Musical alum, 35, who welcomed her first child in July 2024, has been in a relationship with Cole, 28, since 2020 and tied the knot in December 2023

The party kicked off once the awards have wrapped up, where this year Anora took home Best Picture as well as Best Actress for Mikey Madison.

Anora's writer and director earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director. Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez and Adrian Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

For the cosy outing Vanessa out on a leggy display as she wore a black sleeveless dress that featured a high slit up her left leg

She added inches to her petite frame and slipped into a pair of black strappy platform heels and danced the night away with her partner

Meanwhile, her husband opted to match his wife and stepped out in a black two-piece suit over a black T-shirt

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen holding their Oscar trophies from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director. She recognized the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

The film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Smooth-faced Lindsay Lohan stunned in a white sequin gown as she cosied up to her husband Bader Shammas at Vanity Fair's star-studded Oscars bash on Sunday night.

The 38-year-old has stunned fans with her youthful appearance at recent public events, amid a resurgence in her career after years away from Hollywood.

Lohan's glow-up has sparked a debate among fans who have been trying to figure out what procedures the star may have done to achieve the vibrant look.

Amid the torrent of conjecture, the Mean Girls star was a scene-stealing figure at the star-studded Vanity Fair party.

She showed off her incredible figure in a white sequin gown which she wore with a dazzling green necklace.

Lindsay wore her light red tresses in a sleek straight style and opted for a dewy, natural makeup look, created using Charlotte Tilbury Beauty products.

Smooth-faced Lindsay Lohan stunned in a white sequin gown as she cosied up to her husband Bader Shammas at Vanity Fair's star-studded Oscars bash on Sunday night

The 38-year-old has stunned fans with her youthful appearance at recent public events, amid a resurgence in her career after years away from Hollywood

Lohan attended the fete on the arm of her financier husband Bader, with whom she shares a one-year-old son called Luai.

The couple currently reside in Shammas' hometown of Dubai, where he holds a position as assistant vice president at Credit Suisse.

A couple of months ago, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Barrett said he was 'stumped' by Lohan's makeover, and shared a playful extraterrestrial theory on what may be responsible for the actress' metamorphosis.

In a video shared to his Instagram page, Dr. Barrett  who specializes in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery  was asked to rank celebrity plastic surgery from 1-8.

When asked about Lohan, he replied, 'I don't even know if that's plastic surgery, or if she was abducted by aliens. So you can't even put that one on there.'

Dr. Barrett continued trying to pin down Lindsay's transformation in yet another Instagram video, saying she looked like a 'completely different person' and joking there may be an 'alien invasion' happening.

'What the eff is going on,' he asked, praising the star for looking, 'a lot different and much improved.'

'I personally am stumped here. I don't know what the eff is going on because she looks so dramatically different from even just a couple years ago. You know, overfilled, kind of frumpy facial feature.'

Lohan's glow-up has sparked a debate among fans who have been trying to figure out what procedures the star may have done to achieve the vibrant look

Amid the torrent of conjecture, the Mean Girls star was a scene-stealing figure at the star-studded Vanity Fair party

She showed off her incredible figure in a white sequin gown which she wore with a dazzling green necklace

Lindsay wore her light red tresses in a sleek straight style and opted for a dewy, natural makeup look

He went on: 'I mean, you know, she's still a beautiful woman, but you know there's certain things about her cheek that are just really exaggerated that you typically see, and she has a tired and aged appearance back in 2020, and 2022.'

'And then in 2024 her skin looks completely tight. I don't even see any of the nasal labial folds.'

He then wondered if the star perhaps 'just backed off all the filler, got everything dissolved... and did some dramatic skin tightening, combined with some weight loss, maybe Ozempic, some really good makeup.'

He stated that Lohan's 'eyes are tighter, they look completely different. Eyebrows look completely different. The lips, they look smaller and tighter. The chin looks more defined. This looks like a completely different person.'

'Maybe it's an alien invasion, I don't know, coming in as Lindsay Lohan's new look. You tell me.'

When his assistant asked if he thought Lohan had a facelift, he appeared flabbergasted and replied, 'uhh, yeah, sure, I mean, I don't know. I don't know what the hell she got.'

The caption of the post read: 'Lindsay Lohans transformation has everyone guessing!  From her radiant glow to a refreshed, natural look, fans cant stop speculating about what shes doneor hasnt done. Whether its good lighting, self-care, or subtle enhancements, one things for sure: shes absolutely thriving.'

Fans in the comments appeared to agree, with one writing: 'I want whatever Lohan had what aliens do I call.'

Lohan attended the fete on the arm of her financier husband Bader, with whom she shares a one-year-old son called Luai

The couple currently reside in Shammas' hometown of Dubai, where he holds a position as assistant vice president at Credit Suisse

A couple of months ago, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Daniel Barrett said he was 'stumped' by Lohan's makeover

Lindsay's recent transformation has a celebrity plastic surgeon convinced that she's been 'abducted by aliens'; (L) seen in August, (R) seen in 2012

'Lets hear more about Lindsey as kind-a-doubting she's been abducted by Aliens -what is going on here - obviously gorgeously accomplished,' another added.

Others jokes that Lindsay 'doesn't count' because her transformation is simply too good to rate.

'She doesn't count! It's not fair to the other candidates who don't have the aliens' number to call them,' one person wrote.

Many also compared Lindsay's look to Christina Aguilera's recent glow-up.

'Christina is also on alien abduction level lol she looks amazing right next to Lohan,' one wrote.
Lauren Sanchez and her fiance Jeff Bezos looked smitten as they arrived at Vanity Fair's post-Oscars bash on Sunday night.

The couple couldn't take their hands off one another as they arrived on the red carpet at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills.

Lauren stunned in a formfitting, strapless white gown with a feathered hem and train as she entered the carpet.

In another set of photos, the star posed with Jeff as she lovingly locked arms with the businessman, who was in a black velvet suit.

Jeff popped the question to Lauren in May 2023, while they were on vacation in the South of France.

Their engagement came four years after they went public with their relationship in early 2019.

Lauren Sanchez, 55, and her fiance Jeff Bezos, 61, looked smitten as they arrived at Vanity Fair's post-Oscars bash on Sunday night

The couple couldn't take their hands off one another as they arrived on the red carpet at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez.

Adrien Brody triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director.

Lauren stunned in a formfitting, strapless white gown with a feathered hem and train as she entered the carpet

In another set of photos, the star posed with Jeff as she lovingly locked arms with the businessman, who was in a black velvet suit

The couple posed alongside glamorous Kim Kardashian inside the star-studded afterparty

Jeff popped the question to Lauren in May 2023, while they were on vacation in the South of France

Mick Jagger, Melanie Hamrick, Lauren and Jeff pictured

The pair also met Nancy Pelosi

She recognised the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Julianne Hough was mercilessly mocked online after doing a 'land acknowledgment' as she hosted the Oscars red carpet.

The Dancing with The Stars took a moment to mention the indigenous tribes of the Los Angeles area during ABC's red carpet broadcast, sparking backlash among viewers who viewed the moment as annoying Hollywood posturing.

'We gather in celebration of the Oscars on the ancestral lands of the Tongva, Tataviam and Chumash people, the traditional caretakers of this water and land,' Hough, 36, said in the segment. 'We honor and pay our respects to indigenous communities here and around the world.'

A land acknowledgement is 'a formal statement that respects and recognizes Native Americans as the original stewards of the land,' according to the Natural History Museums of LA County.

'She pays homage to the Tongva tribe, but the Tongva moved into Southern California thousands of years after it had already been occupied by a more ancient tribe,' said conservative filmmaker Matt Walsh.

'They killed and displaced the inhabitants and took over. If they get to claim the title of indigenous then so do we.'

Another X user added: Julianne Hough and every other land acknowledgement virtue signaler can f*** all the way off.'

Julianne Hough was slammed on social media after she doing a 'land acknowledgment' at the Oscars red carpet on Sunday

Sandonne Goad, Chairwoman of the Gabrielino/Tongva Nation

A third said: 'Julianne Hough doing a land acknowledgment when she has done blackface is such a joke.'

Hough has apologized for wearing blackface in 2013 as part of a Halloween costume of the character 'Crazy Eyes' from the Netflix show Orange is the New Black.

'Wearing blackface was a poor choice based on my own white privilege and white body bias that hurt people and is something that I regret doing to this day,' she said in her apology.

Hough had another awkward moment on the Oscar's red carpet when she asked Timothee Chalamet to recreate his Saturday Night Life performance, in which he played a fictional rapper for the show's Rap Roundtable skit.

The Call Me By Your Name star politely declined, answering, 'You know what? I'm gonna need a check.'

The awkward moment has circulated on the internet, with fans expressing disgust over Julianne's question.

One person wrote on X, 'Timothee Chalamet was asked to do his "skrt, skeet" SNL bit in Bob Dylan's voice on the Oscars red carpet, and his reply is killing me lol "You know what? I'm gonna need a check." lol pay the man!'

Someone else added to the thread, 'Dance for me, monkey is a tactic that 9 times out of 10 will not go over the way the interviewer thinks it might.'

Another person wrote, 'lol sorry to this woman but what a dumb question.'

The 97th Academy Awards honored the best films of 2024, and the starry ceremony was held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Conan O'Brien, 61, made his debut as Oscars host, after joking: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

Big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Ahead of Sunday night's 97th Annual Academy Awards, the 29-year-old actor took a moment to chat with Hough, 36. During the interview she asked him to do a Bob Dylan bit, which Chalamet declined

Julianne wore a one-shoulder muted gold gown for her pre-show hosting duties

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain while Anora's Mikey Madison triumphed Demi Moore for the Best Actress award.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director and Best Picture.
Jacqueline Jossa let her hair down on a girls' night out at Menagerie Restaurant in Manchester on Saturday after she publicly hit out at In The Style.

The actress, 32, demanded to be 'paid what she is owed' after 'bringing in lawyers as the fashion retailer faces administration'.

Jacqueline was forced to address the brand directly on social media after claiming she 'can't get a response from anyone at the company'.

But taking her mind off the ordeal, Jacqueline looked incredibly glamorous in a pink mini dress as she enjoyed a fun evening out.

Back in 2020, Jacqueline signed with the online fashion brand in a deal thought to be worth 1million.

The EastEnders star has reportedly consulted her lawyers over an unpaid 'five-figure sum' amid her collaboration with the fashion brand.

Jacqueline Jossa, 32, let her hair down on a girls' night out at Menagerie Restaurant in Manchester on Saturday after she publicly hit out at In The Style

The actress demanded to be 'paid what she is owed' after 'bringing in lawyers as the fashion retailer faces administration'

The fashion company was founded by Adam Frisby in 2013, but was acquired by UK-based private equity firm Baaj Capital for 1.2million in March 2023.

Ben Armstrong, became managing director in December 2023 when Frisby stepped down from his position, but he has since left the business.

Taking to her Instagram stories on Thursday, Jacqueline wrote: 'After four glorious years working with In The Style, I never thought my time with the brand would end this way, but in truth since I or my team can't get a response from anyone at the company, the decision has been made for me.

'My name and image is still being used all over the website, helping the brand to sell stock, yet I haven't been paid for months.'

She continued: 'I see them signing up new faces and continuing to launch new collections and I feel it's my responsibility to let the new girls know that their contract is unlikely to be honoured and they are unlikely to be paid.

'After I threatened to speak out, last week, the MD requested a call with me during one of the businesses weeks of my career for EE live and had the disrespect to not show up leaving me and my team on the call for 20 mins before we logged off.

'He has since not responded to any emails.'

Jacqueline explained she has never publicly spoken out about any brand she has worked with but 'at this point I can no longer protect a brand that's disrespecting' her and 'all the other girls that have not been paid'.

But taking her mind off the ordeal, Jacqueline looked incredibly glamorous in a pink mini dress as she enjoyed a fun evening out

Jacqueline was forced to address the brand directly on social media after claiming she 'can't get a response from anyone at the company' (pictured wearing her collection)

Back in 2020, Jacqueline signed with the online fashion brand in a deal thought to be worth 1million

However, things have taken a dramatic turn as the actress has been forced to address the brand directly on social media after claiming she 'can't get a response from anyone'

Taking to her Instagram stories on Thursday, she wrote: 'After four glorious years working with In The Style, I never thought my time with the brand would end this way'

She finished the series of posts by urging the In The Style team to contact her and 'pay what she is owed'

She pleaded: 'All I wanted to do was part amicably and be paid what I'm owed. Please feel free to DM me if you are affected by the same mistreatment. In the meantime girls, I urge you to think twice before shopping there!

'As you probably are aware I haven't posted about them since before Christmas, they are still using my images and selling my collections.. no idea where the money is going but it's all very odd.'

A company can be put into administration if its in debt and cant pay the money it owes. A limited company can then be liquidated if it cannot pay its debts. The people or organisations a company owes money to can apply to the court to get their debts paid.

The soap star went on to thank previous CEO Adam Frisby, who stepped down from the role in December 2023, as well as his partner Jamie Corbett who was also involved in the company.

She wrote: 'But to end on a slightly better note, thank you Adam and Jamie for starting this journey, when you were involved it was a blast and we have 4 incredible years.

'@ft15by thank you for the memories and incredible experiences. Sorry this had to happen to your beautiful business I'm truly gutted for everyone.

'I had such an incredible time working for In The Style when Adam and Jamie were involved, we went on trips together, did incredible things it really was a dream come true.

'I also really want to thank the whole team (most of which aren't there anymore) you know who you are.'

Jacqueline's collections are still for sale on the website

And Jac is not the only one to speak out, with influencer Carys Louise Brandon making a similar claim

She finished off the series of posts by urging the In The Style team to contact her and 'pay what she is owed'.

The star quipped: 'If anyone from the In The Style team would like to reply to my agents that would be great. Like Ben, Matt, Chris, Phoebe if anyone has the decency to reply, or better yet pay me what I am owed! Cheers.'

MailOnline have contacted representatives of In The Style for comment.

Jacqueline's Instagram is full of snaps of her promoting her various clothing collections with the brand, which are still on sale on their website.

However, things have now soured as Jacqueline is said to be seeking legal action against the company.

A source told The Sun earlier this month: 'The company has been accused of failing to pay fees to talent for many months. Some threatened legal action and managed to get paid some of what they were owed.

'Others were trying to get money owed to them but now the fear is that if they do go into administration it will become extremely difficult.

'Jacqueline is owed tens of thousands of pounds, certainly a five figure sum, so shes consulting lawyers over what steps to take. Whats infuriating is theyre still selling clothes online including from Jacquelines collection.'

Jacqueline is said to be seeking legal action against the company

Jacqueline pictured with founder Adam Frisby, who is no longer involved in the company

Ben Armstrong, became managing director in December 2023 when Adam Frisby stepped down from his position but has since left the business

The publication notes that Jaqueline earned commission based on the success of sales from her collections.

The company was founded by Adam Frisby in 2013 but he is no longer involved in the business.

In The Style is said to be on the brink of insolvency and have apparently brought in FTS Recovery to act as administrator, according to Sky News.

A source suggested that 'a pre-pack insolvency potentially involving Baaj Capital' could be a possible outcome.

The fast-fashion retailer, which was once thought to be worth 100million and has collaborated with big names including Stacey Solomon, Dani Dyer and Charlotte Crosby, has seen its financial performance decline in recent years.

And Jac is not the only one to speak out, with influencer Carys Louise Brandon also making a similar claim.

She posted on her Instagram story accusing the brand of not paying her as well as 'lying, deceiving, and taking advantage of the fact I am a small creator'.

Carys, who has 180,000 followers, wrote on her Instagram story: 'They have been given chance after chance to even just respond to me but the finance team are not just totally ignoring me.'

The publication notes that Jaqueline earned commission based on the success of sales from her collections

Jacqueline's legal woes came days after she spoke about split rumours with her husband Dan Osbourne and revealed how her home burglary changed her life

Despite the company woes, Strictly dancer Dianne Buswell is the latest celeb signing for the brand, launching her first capsule collection at the end of January.

Meanwhile, Jacqueline's legal woes come days after she spoke out about split rumours with her husband Dan Osbourne and revealed how her home burglary changed her life.

The soap star and her husband of eight-years, who share daughters Ella, nine, Mia, five, with, are 'still very much together' and have no plans to separate.

The couple's relationship has been plagued by accusations of infidelity and in 2018, Dan, 33, was linked to Gabby Allen, who recently returned to the Love Island villa for All Stars, after they were spotted getting close on a yacht in Marbella.

Speaking to The Sun, Jacqueline, who stars as Lauren Branning in the BBC soap, confessed her frustration as she said 'people think they know more about her life than she does'.

'They were saying: 'Jacqueline didn't spend Christmas with Daniel.' But all I have to do is post pictures of us together with Christmas hats on. We lie in bed next to each other, laughing and reading stuff online about us.'

Jacqueline added that the speculation is 'ridiculous' but she understands that it comes with being in the public eye.

The actress also revealed that was left shaken last August when masked thieves broke into the Marbella villa she and Dan were staying in at the time.

The soap star and her husband of eight years, who share daughters Ella, nine, and Mia, five, are 'still very much together' and have no plans to separate

The couple's relationship has been plagued by accusations of infidelity and in 2018 TOWIE 's Dan, 33, was linked to Gabby Allen, who recently returned to the Love Island villa for All Stars, after they were spotted getting close on a yacht in Marbella

The criminals made off with 20,000 worth of possessions, including her diamond engagement ring.

Jacqueline said the experience has changed her for the better because it 'put things into perspective' and she knows the situation could have been a lot worse.

Jacqueline has been reportedly 'shocked and hurt' at rumours she and Dan have split following the sale of their 'forever home'.

The Sun reported that the couple have accepted a sale on their 2M property in Essex after months on the market.

A source said: 'Jacqueline and Dan are both shocked, hurt and upset about the rumours of a split. Yes, it's true they are selling their house, but that doesn't mean they're not together.

'They're busy juggling day-to-day family and work life like most parents across the country. This week alone they've been inundated with questions about the state of their marriage.

Before adding: 'People are obviously talking about the property changes going on in their lives, but they're still very much together'

MailOnline contacted Jacqueline and Dan's reps for comment at the time.
Oscar viewers spotted a tense on-stage moment between former costars Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg on Sunday as they paid tribute to the legendary Quincy Jones.

The Color Purple co-stars came together to honor the late music producer during the 97th Academy Awards in Los Angeles.

'He actually discovered me for the Color Purple, which was my first film,' Oprah said of the film's executive producer and composer.

'Me too,' Whoopi, the breakout star of the 1985 film, added as the audience erupted in laughter and Oprah appeared less than pleased, fueling speculation about an alleged decades-long feud between the two.

Whoopi was nominated for Best Actress for her role on the Color Purple, while Oprah was nominated for Best Supporting Actress.

The movie, based on the Alice Walker novel, was nominated for 11 Academy Awards at the 1986 ceremony. While neither won for the film, Whoopi went on to receive an Oscar in 1991 for Best Supporting Actress for her work on Ghost.

Never winning an Oscar is long believed to have irritated Winfrey, who has become one of the most successful celebrities in US history.

A TikTok user shared the exchange on the platform, saying the moment between the two screen legends was 'lowkey shady.'

One commenter said: 'Oprah it's not about you tonight... thank you Whoopi.'

The Color Purple co-stars Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey came together to honor Quincy Jones during Sunday's Academy Awards, with some noting tension between the icons

The Color Purple, based on the Alice Walker novel, was nominated for 11 Academy Awards at the 1986 ceremony; Whoopi and Oprah seen in a still

Another added: 'Sad just sad! Whoopi was the star of the movie!'

A third commenter noted that Oprah has said throughout the years that she fought for a role on the iconic film.

'girl stop. You campaigned,' the TikTok user wrote.

However, some commenters noted that the moment was likely scripted, as Oprah and Whoopi have previously denied having a feud.

'You know they write this ahead of time and rehearse it, It's a bit, people,' they wrote.

Oprah was a vision in a black blazer with a shimmering black maxi skirt and tie. Meanwhile Whoopi stunned in a metallic blue gown.

After Whoopi and Oprah took to the stage together, fans also noted how much trimmer the stars looked.

The media mogul, 71, and the Ghost star, 69, have both admitted to using weight loss drugs to help them shed pounds.

Following their appearance one fan took to social media and called the duo 'a walking billboard for Ozempic.'

Some commenters noted that the moment was likely scripted, as Oprah and Whoopi have previously denied having a feud

Whoopi previously revealed she used weight loss medication Mounjaro after hitting 300 Lbs.

Meanwhile Oprah recently revealed that taking weight-loss drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, helped her realize the truth about 'thin people.'

The 97th Academy Awards honored the best films of 2024, and the starry ceremony was held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Conan O'Brien, 61, made his debut as Oscars host, after joking: 'I only agreed to host so that I could get invited.'

Big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez, and Adrien Brody, who triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain while Anora's Mikey Madison triumphed Demi Moore for the Best Actress award.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director and Best Picture.
The Academy Awards in the age of Trump could have gone one of two ways.

Either Hollywood  the biggest bunch of self-righteous, butt-sniffers on Earth  was going to collectively muster their oblivious indignation and sound off against Donald's Second Reich... OR... they'd put their tails between their legs.

Thankfully, it was the latter.

A close friend, who happens to be a massive talent agency executive and was in attendance last night, told me that the presenters and nominees were warned to keep their political opinions to themselves and pop an Ozempic-gummy if they were feeling feisty.

Well, it worked! But the new rules may have also resulted in one of the most boring, inconsequential Oscars ceremonies in recent memory.

So, halfway through the slog I decided to spice things up with some categories of my own.

The Academy Awards in the age of Trump could have gone one of two ways. Either Hollywood was going to collectively muster their oblivious indignation and sound off against Donald's Second Reich... OR... they'd put their tails between their legs. (Pictured: Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin).

A close friend, who was in attendance last night, told me that the presenters and nominees were warned to keep their political opinions to themselves and pop an Ozempic-gummy if they were feeling feisty. (Pictured: Conan O'Brien).

Surprise winner - Hookers!

'Anora' - a story about a young Brooklyn call girl who falls for the son of a brutal Russian oligarch - took home five awards, including Best Actress and Best Picture. And director Sean Baker saved his most heartfelt 'thank you' for members of the oldest profession (no, not the gaffers union).

'I want to thank the sex worker community. They have shared their stories, their life experience with me over the years. My deepest respect, thank you. I share this with you.'

All in the name of 'research', huh Sean?

Poor memoriam

Gossip Girl actress Michelle Trachtenberg is recently gone and  apparently  totally forgotten.

The 39-year-old former child star was found dead on Thursday, but the heartless Oscars producers left her out of their In Memoriam tribute.

They also forgot to mourn the dead career of Michelle's former co-star Blake Lively.

Biggest secret war monger

When actress Daryl Hannah was trotted out to present the statuette for best editing  she emitted a barely audible 'Slava Ukraini' (translation: Glory to Ukraine).

It was the most political moment of the night  and you could sense that crew members backstage were readying the cattle prod for her.

Most deserved ovation

Beside the closing credits, the most warmly received moment of the night was when Los Angeles firefighters, who gallantly battled the Palisades and Eaton fires, were honored.

The raucous applause they received was nice, but - next time - how about giving them water and a real mayor?

'Who let the boobs out' award

I completely missed Molly O'Brien's speech after winning Best Documentary Short for 'The Only Girl in the Orchestra' because I was on the edge of my seat waiting for a wardrobe malfunction.

Lady, this is the Oscars, not the Golden Globes! The award should have gone to the inventor of double-sided tape.

I completely missed Molly O'Brien's speech after winning Best Documentary Short for 'The Only Girl in the Orchestra' because I was on the edge of my seat waiting for a wardrobe malfunction.

Worst musical performance

There were some real ear-bleeders from Doja Cat's awful rendition of 'Diamonds Are Forever' to Oscars host Conan O'Brien's  sadly floppy  comedic opening number.

But the worst of the bunch came from a woman named Raye, dressed as Amy Winehouse-in-drag, who butchered Adele's 'Skyfall'.

Most gag-inducing skit

Indeed, I'd hoped Conan was going to save this stinker, but things got gory fast as he popped out of a slit in actress Demi Moore's meat sack of a body in a vile nod to her movie 'The Substance.'

Let's say it didn't live up to Billy Crystal's 1997 Oscars parody of The English Patient. And it was still dinner time of the East Coast.

Someone pass the Pedialyte

Best joke/legal complaint

Even our ginger-flavored bag o' giggles seemed to hate the show as it dragged on into its fourth hour. He darkly moaned, 'If you're still enjoying the show, you have something called Stockholm Syndrome.'

His funniest joke came halfway through the evening. 'It's time for Kendrick Lamar to come out and call Drake a pedophile,' he said, referencing the rapper-feud that crescendoed at the Super Bowl.

'Don't worry, I'm lawyered up!' he re-assured the gobsmacked crowd.

Oh please people, you've worked for worse.

The worst musical performance of the bunch came from a woman named Raye, dressed as Amy Winehouse-in-drag, who butchered Adele's 'Skyfall'.

Longest gum toss

Speaking of horrid Hollywood monsters of the past.

As Adrien Brody walked to the stage to accept his Best Actor award for his role in 'The Brutalist,' he suddenly stopped  spit his chewing gum into his hand  and tossed it to his partner, Harvey Weinstein-ex, Georgina Chapman.

Gross! But I guess she's had something far more wretched in her hands.

Apparently, she'll take anything to get into the front row at the Oscars.

Most unstable winner

We all assumed this would go (as usual) to Kieran Culkin, whose Best Supporting Actor win appeared to arouse an angry, bleeped-out 'f***k!' from Edward Norton. But it was hysterically-screeching Zoe Saldana who looked most in need of a valium and straitjacket.

Weirdly she didn't thank her canceled-transgender costar Karla Sofia Gascon after grabbing Best Supporting Actress.

Gascon, who was once a progressive darling suddenly became a grotesque outcast after her resurfaced tweets offended the PC-police.

Hollywood has changed. But they'll always be fickle.

Second most annoying speech

This went to Best Song winner Camille who composed the music for 'Emilia Perez'.

She started singing in such a humiliating display that even her collaborator and romantic partner scurried off the stage.

New Oscars rule: If you deliver the worst speech of the night, you will be stripped of your Oscar and the golden man will be handed to the next highest vote-getter.

Best impression of an Easter candy

Timothee Chalamet won for his spot-on Peeps-yellow suit, which would've been chic and avant-garde had he won, but he just looked like a sad, melting creamsicle next to his eyerolling girlfriend in her tacky dress.

Where is the graceful Kardashian when you need one, you know Caitlyn Jenner?

Worst facial hair

We all thought this would go to Selena Gomez's sasquatchian-partner Benny Blanco, who was apparently late for the show as he was in the salon chair having his back-hair braided.

The real award went to Miley Cyrus's nonexistent eyebrows. She's reminding me more of Billy Ray by the day.

The real award for worst facial hair went to Miley Cyrus's nonexistent eyebrows. She's reminding me more Billy Ray by the day.

Timothee Chalamet won for his spot-on Peeps-yellow suit, which would've been chic and avant-garde had he won, but he just looked like a sad, melting creamsicle next to his eyerolling girlfriend in her tacky dress.

Most excited diva

No, this didn't go to Whoopi Goldberg in her blue Fruit Roll-Ups dress as she posthumously praised Quincy Jones. (Her presenting partner - walking Ozempic Winfrey - kept nauseatingly referring to him as 'Q').

The winner was Elton John who clapped uproariously for Mick Jagger, but the Rocket Man legend is so blind he accidentally thought he was applauding for Miley Cyrus.

Best 'rested'

In Elton's defense, Mick Jagger did look very sexy.

If someone is doing his cosmetic surgery, that work deserves a lifetime achievement award.

And maybe someone can pass his business card along to Goldie Hawn.
Lara Worthington has delighted her fans with a throwback photo from her seaside loving childhood.

In an image shared to Instagram on Monday, the model is just a young tot as she beams on an Australian beach.

The cheeky little girl in the photo beams for the camera while posing with a pink body board.

'Water baby alwayssss' the 37-year-old wrote in her caption alongside the image.

Lara also shared a second photo of herself now, also sitting on the beach in a flirty pose.

The stunner looked up at the camera from her perch on the shore as she donned a pastel pink, semi-sheer dress.

Lara Worthington has delighted her fans with a throwback photo from her seaside loving childhood. In an image shared to Instagram on Monday, the model is just a young tot as she beams on an Australian beach. Pictured as a child

Lara also shared a second photo of herself now, also sitting on the beach in a flirty pose. 'Water baby alwayssss' the 37-year-old wrote in her caption alongside the image

Lara jetted off to Bali with her family in January, after they returned to Australia for the Christmas holidays.

The supermodel and her husband, Sam Worthington, and their three sons have been soaking up the sun in the tropical locale.

She posted to Instagram to detail the laid-back getaway, posing on a tree-lined staircase in a sheer black top.

Lara showed off her lithe figure in the fitted ensemble which included a rust toned mini skirt.

Other photos taken show Lara kicking back on the beach with a cocktail while wearing an oversized jersey.

'Solo sip,' she captioned the set of photos, indicating she slipped away from the family to enjoy some down time.

Further images show Lara slipping into a black bikini for a spot of scuba diving at the beach.

'Water sports,' she captioned that set, which also included images of a boat trip.

Lara jetted off to Bali with her family in January, after they returned to Australia for the Christmas holidays

The supermodel and her husband, Sam Worthington, and their three sons have been soaking up the sun in the tropical locale

The month prior, Lara visited Darwin with her family and had fun interacting with the local wildlife.

In one image, Sam, 48, held up a skull from what appeared to be a crocodile while one of their sons played in the background.

In her caption she wrote: 'The new Irwins' referring to the family of Steve 'The Crocodile Hunter' Irwin who are known as for their love of crocodiles and wildlife.

Lara's post came after husband Sam had an awkward run-in with a reporter on the red carpet of the GQ Men Of the Year Awards.

Channel Seven reporter Sally Bowery introduced Lara to viewers of the Sydney event by her maiden name Bingle - and it went down like a lead balloon.

'Her name is Lara Worthington,' the Avatar star clapped back.

'It's only been ten years,' a clearly irritated Sam quickly added.

Bowery quickly apologised for he faux pas.

'Solo sip,' she captioned the set of photos

Lara kicked back on the beach with a cocktail

'That was my slip,' she said.

Later on in the evening, the Avatar star was crowned GQ's Man of the Year.

Following the red carpet Bingle bungle, Sally clapped back at the actor in a column for Seven.

'I said Lara's maiden name. Not the wrong name' Sally said.

'Just a name she had used for a big part of her life. One that was a household name, long before she met her husband,'

She insisted Lara herself didn't seem 'the least bit bothered' by her slip-up and laughed it off as she shared her confusion about why Sam wanted her referred to by her married name.

Sally argued: 'So why then at an event celebrating what it now means to be a modern man didn't her husband?

'A married woman's identity is far more than her husband's surname.'

The month prior, Lara visited Darwin with her family and had fun interacting with the local wildlife. In one image, Sam, 48, (pictured) held up a skull from what appeared to be a crocodile while one of their sons played in the background

She then went on to cite Sam's own acceptance speech when he was crowned Man of The Year hours later, in which he spoke about the need to move past outdated notions.

'[He told] the crowd that men ''can love others unconditionally and respectfully, without having to live up to some outdated standard or some stereotypical, archaic, and just plain sad idea of what a man should be''.

'I couldn't agree more,' she concluded.

Sam and Lara began dating in 2013 and married secretly in 2014 and have since welcomed three sons - Racer, eight, River, four and Rocket, nine.
Julia Fox uncharacteristically covered up her body in a white shirt as she attended Elton John's AIDS Foundation Academy Awards viewing party on Sunday.

The Uncut Gems actress, 35, slipped into a very quirky look and flashed her toned legs as she struck a pose on the red carpet.

The Hollywood star displayed her tiny frame in the structured corset and wore a platinum blonde wig.

Julia turned heads wearing a Bianca Censori-inspired naked gown as she made an appearance at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party in Beverly Hills on Sunday.

She slipped into a pair of nude, closed-toed heels and opted to not add any flashy accessories to the ensemble.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Julia Fox, 35, uncharacteristically covered up her body in a white shirt as she attended Elton John 's AIDS Foundation Academy Awards viewing party on Sunday

Julia displayed her tiny frame in the structured corset and wore a platinum blonde wig

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez.

Adrien Brody triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director.

She recognised the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

The Uncut Gems actress slipped into a very quirky look and flashed her toned legs as she struck a pose on the red carpet

Julia turned heads wearing a Bianca Censori-inspired naked gown as she made an appearance at the 2025 Vanity Fair Oscars party in Beverly Hills on Sunday

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognised for his work in The Brutalist.

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Meanwhile Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called but did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win

It was definitely considered an upset as Demi had earned the same prize at most of the awards season events for her work on The Substance as the field was completed by Cynthia Erivo  Wicked, Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez, and Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

As she portrays an escort in the film, Mikey made sure to recognize the sex worker community in her touching acceptance speech

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Elon Musk has hit back at Saturday Night Live after he was mocked in a sketch lampooning last week's Oval Office spat, branding the skit 'lies.'

Musk, 53, called out the skit after an X user re-posted the clip along with the musing, 'I can't imagine the kind of person who finds this funny.'

'Humor fails when it lies,' Musk replied.

Musk famously said last year that 'free speech is the bedrock of a functioning democracy' and last month he called to 'legalize comedy' after blasting the left for being unable to take a joke.

'We're trying to get good things done but also have a good time doing it and you know, have a sense of humor,' the controversial DOGE head said at the Conservative Political Action Conference. 'The left wanted to make comedy illegal, you know? You can't make fun of anything. Comedy sucks! Nothing's funny! You can't make fun of anything! It's like, legalize comedy!'

On the latest episode of SNL, Musk was portrayed by a chainsaw-wielding Mike Myers in a political sketch that riffed off the made-for-TV White House showdown between President Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky.

Elon Musk has hit back at Saturday Night Live after he was mocked in a sketch lampooning last week's Oval Office spat, branding the bit 'lies'

Musk, pictured at the Conservative Political Action Conference last month, expressed his displeasure with the sketch on X

Comedian James Austin Johnson took on the part of Trump, opening the show with: 'I'd like to welcome President Zelensky here to this incredible trap.

'It's going to be a big, beautiful trap, and we're going to attack him very soon for no reason, right?'

Mikey Day took on the role of Zelensky, alongside Bowen Yang who portrayed an overzealous Vice President JD Vance.

Johnson's Trump made jokes over the Zelensky's outfit inside the Oval Office, saying: 'Who shows up to the White House in a t-shirt and jeans like a garbage person.'

Right on cue, Mike Myers appears as Elon Musk in the background, wearing his signature 'tech support' t-shirt and black jeans while revving a red chainsaw.

The power saw was similar to the one Musk appeared on stage with at CPAC last month.

SNL's Trump hilariously adds: 'Elon we love your outfit, very official and very respectful. And I love when he gets that chainsaw right to my head.'

Fake Elon then jokes that the Oval Office belongs to him before breaking out in shouts of 'legalize comedy'.

The work of DOGE is then pointed out, with Johnson saying: 'Theyre doing mass firings in the government.

'We love mass firings because you dont have to know what any of their names are or what exactly they do.'

As part of the shows cold opening, a tongue-in-cheek voice over kicked off proceedings as it described the meeting between the two as going 'really, really well'

Bowen Yang portrayed an overzealous Vice President JD Vance during the cold opening

Myers' Musk responds: 'I mean, were not going to get it perfect, you know, we are firing the non essential employees, like air traffic controllers.'

The show then ripped into some of the employees of DOGE who have been unmasked as being as young 19 years old.

Fake Trump wheels out one DOGE 'employee' known as 'big balls', who tells the office: 'This week I fired a black general a woman admiral. It was awesome!

'And in addition to DOGE, weve started another initiative called the Department of Undoing Child Health care and Education, or DOUCHE.'

Myers rips on a red chainsaw, similar to the one Musk appeared on stage with at CPAC last month

Zelenskyys White House meeting with Trump and Vance pic.twitter.com/l7T2GCvVJW  Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) March 2, 2025

The yelling match that unfolded on Friday was unlike anything ever seen inside the Oval Office

Myers as Musk hilariously responds: 'DOUCHE is going to be epic! DOUCHE is going to really clean everything out well.'

Fake Trump then caps off the cold open by announcing he would releasing the Epstein Files.

'And to cap off an amazing week, were going to finally release the Epstein Files. Yes, America is going to see all the names, from A to S. No T,' he insists.

The show also included Shane Gillis in his second time hosting, alongside musical guest Tate McRae.

Gillis had previously hosted the show last year after being ousted from SNL in 2019 over racist and homophobic remarks.

Myers had replaced his longtime SNL castmate, and fellow Wayne's World star, Dana Carvey in being Musk. Carvey took up the role after Trump won last year's election.

The real Musk had posted on his platform X criticizing Carvey's portrayal of him at the time, writing: 'Dana Carvey, just sounds like Dana Carvey.'

The show ripped into some of the employees of DOGE who have been unmasked as being as young 19 years old

Myers had replaced his longtime SNL castmate, and fellow Wayne's World star, Dana Carvey in being Musk

Myers appeared with a chainsaw, much like Musk did at CPAC after being gifted one by Argentina's President Javier Milei, seen here in the background

The yelling match that SNL poked fun at what was unlike anything ever seen publicly in the Oval Office. And it played out on TV screens across the world.

Zelensky flew to Washington DC amid peace talks between the US, Ukraine and Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose forces invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Trump had asked for half Ukraine's valuable underground minerals in return for continued US assistance.

But tensions between Zelensky, Trump and Vance exploded in full view of TV cameras Friday when Zelensky suggested the US will feel the impact of Putin's invasion 'in the future.'

The two leaders began shouting, with Trump accusing Zelensky of 'gambling with World War Three'.

Vance then asked why Zelensky hadn't thanked either of them for continued military support of Ukraine and slammed Zelensky for campaigning for Kamala Harris' presidential campaign last year.

After the argument, Zelensky was kicked out of the White House and peace talks have been suspended.
Karla Sofia Gascon had a lonely night at the Oscars after she was accused of being a racist over social media posts targeting Muslims and George Floyd.

The Emilia Perez star - the first trans woman to be nominated for an acting Oscar - was once considered a front-runner to win Best Actress, but was shunned by Netflix and her co-stars after the posts emerged.

It was unclear if the Spanish actress, 52, would show up at the event, as Netflix had pulled the plug on many of her pre-awards appearances after the scandal.

But Gascon did show up, alongside her daughter, agent, a 'concerned' Netflix publicist and private security, The New York Times reported.

She was photographed interacting with co-star Selena Gomez in the audience after the show started, but did not walk the red carpet or pose with anyone from her film.

Gascon did reportedly share a warm moment with Best Actor winner Adrian Brody at the bar, but was kept from speaking to any press by the Netflix publicist.

'Gascon was jovial and interested in chatting,' the NYT reported. 'But before she could get out any answer, the Netflix publicist shut down any more conversation and moved the reporter away from Gascon.'

It was a lonely night at the Oscars of trans actress Karla Sofia Gascon, who has been accused of racism and Islamophobia over her social media posts

Gascon said hello to co-star Selena Gomez, but did not pose with any of the Emilia Perez cast

The Los Angeles Times noted that the controversy surrounding Gascon's social media posts were 'the most uncomfortable thing about being at the Academy Awards this year.'

The audience applauded politely every time Gascon was mentioned - but 'without any real warmth,' per the LA Times.

She was accompanied by a bodyguard and a Netflix publicist every time she got up from her seat.

Host Conan O'Brien mentioned the controversy in his opening monologue, saying: Anora uses the F word 479 times... Thats three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascons publicist: "you tweeted WHAT?"'

Gascon responded with a tight smile, as Conan continued by quipping: 'Karla, if you are gonna tweet about the Oscars my name is Jimmy Kimmel.'

Just after Gascon's nomination was announced last month, Muslim writer Sarah Hagi dug up a series of old social media posts by the actress.

One posted in November 2020 read: 'I'm sorry. Is it just my impression or is there more muslims in Spain? Every time I go to pick up my daughter from school there are more women with their hair covered and their skirts down to their heels. Next year instead of English we'll have to teach Arabic.'

In September 2020, she posted an image of a Muslim family eating at a restaurant, where the wife was in a full black burqa, along with a sarcastic comment.

'Islam is marvelous, without any machismo,' she wrote. 'Women are respected, and when they are so respected they are left with a little squared hole on their faces for their eyes to be visible and their mouths, but only if she behaves. Although they dress this way for their own enjoyment. How DEEPLY DISGUSTING OF HUMANITY.'

Selena Gomez, Zoe Saldana and Gascon are seen back in November, in happier times for the trans actress who has since been 'canceled' by Hollywood

The audience applauded politely every time Gascon was mentioned - but 'without any real warmth,' per the LA Times

She also tweeted about the Black Lives Matter riots sparked by George Floyd's death in police custody, in another post that drew brickbats.

'I really think that very few people ever cared about George Floyd, a drug addict swindler, but his death has served to once again demonstrate that there are people who still consider black people to be monkeys without rights and consider policemen to be assassins. They are both wrong,' wrote Gascon.

Gascon apologized for for the posts but had insisted she is not a racist.

'As someone in a marginalized community, I know this suffering all too well and I am deeply sorry to those I have caused pain,' she said in a statement via Netflix, where her film can be streamed.

'All my life I have fought for a better world. I believe light will always triumph over darkness.'

Gascon was a regular in Mexican telenovelas before transitioning in 2018. In Emilia Perez, she plays both a menacing cartel kingpin and the woman who emerges after the kingpin fakes his own death. Years later, her character contacts the lawyer who facilitated her transition to help her reunite with her wife and their children.
The sex worker who served as a consultant for Oscar favorite Anora has revealed which particular scenes she believes went too far in the film - which took home five awards, including Best Picture, on Sunday night.

Former escort Andrea Werhun says she risked being 're-traumatized' by the most brutal moments in the movie, including when Mikey Madison's character 'Ani' is assaulted by a pair of hulking Russian mobsters.

She spoke to director Sean Baker about her concerns, but her advice ultimately fell on deaf ears as leading lady Mikey  who is up for a best actress award on Sunday  pushed for more fight scenes to be included.

Andrea, 36, said: 'I would have preferred to see less violence against Ani.

'As a sex worker, I feel like we've seen enough violence against sex workers on screen.

'There are parts of the movie that feel very authentic, but when there is so much violence, it feels that a sex worker wouldn't have made a film like this.

Former escort Andrea Werhun acted a consultant for the hit movie Anora says she risked being 're-traumatized' by the violent scenes and feels like her experience and advice wasn't taken into consideration

The comedy-drama starring best actress-winner Mikey Madison (pictured), was the star of the night at the 97th Academy Awards where it took home five Oscars, including Best Picture

The cast of Anora is seen on stage accept the award for Best Picture during the Oscars on March 2

'A sex worker telling their own story may not have gone down that path - it's not something we want to see.

'It might be something a civilian audience wants to see or expects, but a sex worker wouldn't necessarily do that - it's not fun for us to watch.'

Andrea was closely consulted on Anora's script before last year's critically acclaimed movie went into production.

Director Baker did his utmost to ensure the plot, about a Brooklyn stripper who falls for the playboy son of a wealthy Russian oligarch, was as realistic as possible.

He hired real life strippers to take part in the action shot at a fictional gentleman's club in the Brighton Beach neighborhood.

Toronto-based Andrea  who spent 15 years working as an escort and stripper - was asked to meet actress Mikey, 25, so she could educate her on every aspect of the job.

Mikey Madison's character is in love with the son of a Russian oligarch, but her assault by a pair of hulking Russian mobsters was a particular scene that Werhun was against

Director Sean Baker thanked the sex worker community while accepting the award for Best Original Screenplay

Toronto-based Andrea  who spent 15 years working as an escort and stripper - was asked to meet actress Mikey, 25, so she could educate her on every aspect of the job

Andrea eating out of a Tupperware in the strip club's dressing room, a detail that made it into the final take of the film

Key details Andrea imparted - such as the fact that lap dancers will often be found eating lunch out of Tupperware in a club's dressing room  were included in the final takes.

However, Baker was less receptive to concerns about gratuitous violence. A scene where Ani bites, kicks, and hurls household objects at a pair of mobsters trying to restrain her before she is tied up and gagged with a scarf, remained central to the plot.

Andrea added: 'I didn't say that I didn't want it included, but I did flag that there is a lot of violence.

'I know he (Sean) talked to Mikey about some of those scenes and asked her what she wanted, and she said she wanted more fight scenes.

'I understand that as they do demonstrate her character's will to survive.

'But, in a way, it was traumatizing for me.

Baker was less receptive to her concerns about gratuitous violence such as a scene where Ani bites, kicks and hurls household objects at a pair of mobsters trying to restrain her before she is tied up and gagged with a scarf

Andrea likened some of those violent scenes to 'trauma porn' as she said she had experienced those instances in real life which doesn't make it easy to watch on the big screen

'It's never easy to watch a sex worker on screen experience violence. I don't want to tell you what violence I've experienced  that falls into the category of trauma porn and I don't want to relive my trauma  but I've experienced violence in every single job I've done, both inside the sex industry and in other professions.'

Andrea, who this year is releasing a film about her life called 'Modern Wh*re that is based on her 2018 book of the same title, has not been invited to the Oscars this weekend.

But she remains proud of the work she did on Anora and says: 'I'm absolutely rooting for it and I hope it wins, I hope it sweeps.

'It has all the potential to win Best Picture and I want Sean to get his flowers for all the work he's put into this film.

'I can't say that as a consultant that I had any role in editing the script. My role was to review and critique.

'Sean has the power to listen to me or to discard my ideas and that's a very normal part of the process. I can only make suggestions.

The cast of Anora at the 30th annual critics choice awards in Santa Monica, California, on February 7 - they're heading to the Oscars this Sunday to see if they can get another accolade

Andrea, who this year is releasing a film about her life called 'Modern Wh*re that is based on her 2018 book of the same title, has not been invited to the Oscars this weekend.

Andrea's 2018 book Modern Whore

'But Sean really went back and forth with me on the script from an early stage and that dedication to getting the depiction of sex work right really shows in the film.

'I think it's a fantastic film and I really enjoyed working with Mikey.

'She's a big-time sweetie pie. She's such a kind, curious, compassionate soul who like Sean was totally dedicated to getting her portrayal of sex work right.

'I didn't get an opportunity to work on set so my relationship with Mikey was to talk to her before filming about how to play a sex worker by tapping into her own qualities.

'Her strength, her resilience and determination, her charisma, and sense of humor.

'I think that all of those things really went a long way to depicting a realistic sex worker.

Andrea in the smoking room between sets at the strip club. Although she had her criticism, she said Mikey 'nailed it' and showed her resiliency through her performance

'She nailed it. She went all in and I have zero complaints about her performance.

'Her resilience definitely came to the fore and especially during the violent scenes that - as a sex worker - is not the number one priority on my list to see, seeing another sex worker get assaulted on screen.

'But what those scenes demonstrate is a sex worker's fierce ability to survive situations like that and she does that really well.

'In my movie, Modern Wh*re, there are two incidents of sexual assault that are depicted very tastefully.

'I think they are important because it's realistic, it's true, it's what happened.

'But my director and I don't see the value of traumatizing an audience with violence or re-traumatizing me with a re-enactment of it.'
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley has touched down in Paris for fashion week less than two days after she attended the Ferragamo show in Milan.

The former Victoria's Secret model, 37, was seen arriving the Ritz Hotel in the French capital on Monday ahead of Paris Fashion Week.

Rosie oozed sophistication as she donned a tailored black coat, complete with a belted waist and shoulder pads.

She paired the coat with slim pleated trousers, suede stilettos and a dark grey leather Birkin bag, as well as visor sunglasses.

Just hours later she was seen leaving The Ritz as she headed out for the day after an outfit change, swapping her coat for a leather button-up bomber jacket, baggy pants and boot heels.

Rosie's appearance came less than two days after she she sat on the front row for the Ferragamo Fall RTW 2025 fashion show as part of Milan Fashion Week.

Rosie Huntington-Whiteley touched down in Paris for fashion week on Monday less than two days after she attended the Ferragamo show in Milan

The former Victoria's Secret model, 37, was seen arriving the Ritz Hotel in the French capital on Monday ahead of Paris Fashion Week

Also spotted in Paris on Monday was Dutch model Romee Strijd, 29, who was seen leaving the Avenue restaurant.

Romee made a stylish appearance as she sported a patent leather utility belted jacket, with a crocodile print mini skirt and sheer tights.

She completed the look with shin-high leather chunky ankle boots adorned with buckles and accessorised with a quilted handbag and oval sunglasses.

The last time Rosie graced a fashion runway was for the Balmain Spring/Summer show in September 2015.

Rosie has made a name for herself as a model and even became a Victoria's Secret Angel, but has not been seen on the runway in recent years.

However, she made her epic return for the first time in 10 years earlier this month at the Jean Paul Gaultier show during Paris Fashion Week.

The Plymouth-born icon modelled a stunning creation by Ludovic de Saint Sernin as the guest designer made his successful debut during Paris Fashion Week.

The model's gown was part of a collection which imagined a sartorial shipwreck, with the sculptural corseting and maritime influences that have become entwined with JPG's legacy.

Rosie oozed sophistication as she donned a tailored black coat, complete with a belted waist and shoulder pads

Just hours later she was seen leaving The Ritz as she headed out for the day after an outfit change

Rosie swapped her coat for a leather button-up bomber jacket, baggy pants and boot heels

Rosie's appearance came less than two days after she she sat on the front row for the Ferragamo Fall RTW 2025 fashion show as part of Milan Fashion Week

Since, Rosie has embarked on several business ventures including her own beauty line Rose Inc and a hugely successful collaboration with Wardrobe. NYC.

In another major life change, Rosie and her Hollywood star partner Jason Statham, 57, recently moved back to London for the safety of their children.

After living in California for 11 years, Rosie and Jason have invested 15million in three luxury homes in London.

Speaking to the Telegraph in October, Rosie said the experience had been 'grounding'.

She said: 'Living back in the UK has been a really grounding experience for us. The fact that we can walk out of our front door and go and get a coffee and a loaf of bread [without paparazzi intrusion].

'We'd leave our home in LA and there'd be five cars following us down the block to the gym. Both Jason and I felt like it was really important for our children to not be impacted by our line of work.

Also spotted in Paris on Monday was Dutch model Romee Strijd, 29, who was seen leaving the Avenue restaurant

Romee made a stylish appearance as she sported a patent leather utility belted jacket, with a crocodile print mini skirt and sheer tights

'We wanted our kids to have a childhood away from cameras as much as we could. Because I've seen that.

'I've seen children of celebrities whose parents didn't give them that choice. It's Jack's choice and it's Bella's choice, whether they live in the public eye.

'If they want to, that won't be a problem. But I just always feared my son turning round to me one day and saying, 'You and Daddy didn't protect me, I don't want this'.'

She and Jason first began dating in 2009 after meeting at a party in London and experiencing what Rosie called "instant chemistry".'
Anthea Turner showed off her age defying visage as she attended a Turn The Tables charity event in aid of Cancer Research UK at London's Corinthia Hotel on Monday.

The broadcaster, who famously presented BBC's Blue Peter between 1992 and 1994, looked decades younger than her 64-years.

Anthea cut a stylish figure in a chic printed blouse which she teamed with high waisted trousers and pointed heels.

It comes as Anthea revealed how pal and Loose Women star Jane Moore's foul-mouthed advice helped her find happiness with fiance Mark Armstrong after years of being single.

She told The Sun: 'I was on my own, I said 'nobody asks me out' and Jane said: 'That's because you've got, 'F*** off!' tattooed across your forehead''.

'So I had to think about that. Maybe I need to be just a bit more open'.

Anthea Turner, 64, showed off her age defying visage as she attended a Turn The Tables charity event in aid of Cancer Research UK at London's Corinthia Hotel on Monday

The broadcaster, who famously presented BBC 's Blue Peter between 1992 and 1994, looked decades younger than her 64-years (right in 1993)

It comes as Anthea revealed how pal and Loose Women star Jane Moore 's foul-mouthed advice helped her find happiness with fiance Mark Armstrong (pictured together in January)

Twice married Anthea has been engaged to the businessman since 2019 following. whirlwind romance and has branded him her 'perfect match'.

Recalling his proposal during a romantic trip to Italy she told HELLO: 'I had a hunch. It was all very quick (we were engaged within just a few months of meeting),'

'But when you are older it does tend to move a bit quicker because 'when you know, you know' and there is no point in messing around is there?!'.

The couple postponed their wedding in November 2022, opting to have it later this year in Italy.

They previously delayed the nuptials due to covid restrictions, the death of both parties beloved mothers and an eye injury that left her 'moments from going blind'.

Anthea told the Daily Mail's Richard Eden that the lavish nuptials would now be taking place in Italy saying: 'We're definitely going to do it next year!'

It comes after the TV veteran has offered her fans advice on how to survive divorce in her new book, after going through two failed marriages.

She was previously married to ex-husband Grant Bovey for 13 years, but the couple split after he cheated on her with a woman half her age in 2013.

Anthea cut a stylish figure in a chic printed blouse which she teamed with high waisted trousers and pointed heels

She said: 'I was on my own, I said 'nobody asks me out' and Jane said: 'That's because you've got, 'F*** off!' tattooed across your forehead' (L-R) Jane and Anthea pictured 2016)

Twice married Anthea has been engaged to the businessman since 2019 following. whirlwind romance and has branded him her 'perfect match'

Anthea's first marriage was to her manager, former DJ Peter Powell, in 1990, with the couple splitting up eight years later.

She has now shared advice on how to have a healthy divorce, including three main tips: 'Ditch blame, put the kids first, and avoid lawyers for as long as you can.'

Anthea also wrote alongside the Instagram video earlier this year: 'Divorce is always a tricky subject and no 2 are exactly the same. I was like a rabbit it the headlights and everyone seemed to have advice'.

It comes after Anthea recently revealed that she is back speaking to sister Wendy 'by accident.'

Anthea and her journalist sister, 56, stopped communicating while embroiled in a years-long feud.

The duo have refused to detail why they fell out so dramatically many years ago, but during a joint appearance on Lorraine, discussed being reunited.

Anthea also admitted that their mum Jean's death brought them closer. Jean died from pneumonia aged 91 in May 2022.

Asked how they got back on good terms, Anthea admitted: 'It was an accident,' before Wendy explained it was down to a Whatsapp message she'd sent for their father Brian.

Eamonn Holmes was also in attendance at the charity bash with his GB News co-host Ellie Costello

(L-R) TV's Victoria Derbyshire joined chef and podcast host Angela Hartnett

Journalist and ex Strictly star Krishnan Guru-Murthy added a pop of colour to his dark suit with a bright pink tie

She recalled: 'I was at mum and dad's. Mum was still alive. Dad was struggling with Whatsapp on his phone. I sent you [Anthea] a Whatsapp message and you called dad to say, ''how did you send a whatsapp message?''

'It got complicated so I was like ,''oh give me the phone.'' We started talking on the phone and didn't stop talking.'

The sisters also discussed how losing their mother June, and clearing through her belongings gave them a greater appreciation for each other.

Anthea admitted: 'We underestimated emotionally how difficult it is. You have to get rid of thing from your childhood.

'Mum was a hoarder. I'm glad I had my sister there to do that. As an only child it must be really hard.'
This nepo baby actor has been making his own name for himself in the film industry in recent years.

But his big break really came with the 2024 horror film Smile 2.

The American actor comes from Hollywood stock, and his famous father is known for his work in the horror industry.

Having followed in his parents' acting footsteps, this star's breakthrough role even saw him emulate an iconic character played by his father.

He has firmly settled himself in the world of celebrity, and has been dating Victoria's Secret model Sara Sampaio since 2023.

But after his strikingly familiar grin made an appearance on the Oscars red carpet on Sunday, can you guess who this actor is related to?

This nepo baby actor has been making his own name for himself in the film industry in recent years - but can you guess who his famous father is? (Seen at Oscars on Sunday)

The American actor's famous father is known for his work in the horror industry - and he recently emulated him in Smile 2 (pictured)

The star is none other than Ray Nicholson - the son of The Shining star Jack Nicholson.

Retired actor and filmmaker Jack, 87, is a three-time Academy Award winner, for Terms of Endearment, As Good as It Gets and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

But it's his role as resort caretaker Jack Torrance in the 1980 horror film The Shining that really made him famous - along with his iconic-yet-terrifying grin.

And his son Ray, 33, is the spitting image of his father, apparent during his red carpet Oscars appearance when he flashed a smile.

Ray was joined on the red carpet at Dolby Theatre on Sunday by his Portuguese model girlfriend Sara, who has been dating since the summer of 2023.

The actor, who is the son of Oscar winner Jack and former model Rebecca Broussard, 61, has followed in his father's footsteps career-wise, after providing lots of scares in the horror hit Smile 2.

He is also set to star as a pop star's obsessive fan in the upcoming Borderline, being produced by Margot Robbie's LuckyChap company.

The star is none other than Ray Nicholson - the son of The Shining star Jack Nicholson (Pictured in 2023)

Retired actor and filmmaker Jack, 87, is a three-time Academy Award winner - but it's his role as resort caretaker Jack Torrance in the 1980 horror film The Shining that really made him famous (Pictured)

And his son Ray, 33, is the spitting image of his father, apparent during his red carpet Oscars appearance when he flashed a smile (Pictured)

The film, which is slated for release on March 14, is a thriller about a stalker who invades the home of a pop star with the intention of marrying her.

Meanwhile his girlfriend Sara will try her hand at villainy in the upcoming Superman.

She is set to take on the role as Eve Teschmacher, the assistant turned love interest to Nicholas Hoult's bad guy Lex Luthor.

Sharing the trailer for the film scheduled for a July 11 release, Sara wrote: 'So proud of the whole cast and crew.

'Still can't believe I get to be a part of this! What is life?'

Sara and Ray made made their red carpet debut at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party in 2024.

The actor, who is the son of Oscar winner Jack and former model Rebecca Broussard, 61, has followed in his father's footsteps career-wise, after providing lots of scares in the horror hit Smile 2 (Jack and Rebecca seen in 1997)

Sara and Ray made made their red carpet debut at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party in 2024 (Pictured)

They oozed affection as they embraced in front of the camera at the high-profile celebrity event.

Sara radiated classic Hollywood glamour in a gorgeous black-and-burgundy off-the-shoulder gown from Zuhair Murad.

The gown featured a ruched bodice and a voluminous skirt with a slit to reveal her trim legs.

The dark material was enlivened with lovely dark red rose designs, and she paired the dress with a tasteful set of pointy black pumps.
She is an award-winning actress with a talent for both comedy and drama.

This brunette beauty's resume includes the beloved series Gilmore Girls.

She also has worked with some big name stars like Alexis Bledel, Melissa McCarthy, Dax Shepherd and Bonnie Bedelia.

This Hollywood actress' former partner of 11 years starred as her on-screen brother in Parenthood.

She is now getting laughs in a new show, The Z-Suite on Tubi.

Who is she?

She is an award winning actress with a talent for comedy and drama. Her resume includes the beloved series Gilmore Girls. Her former partner starred as her on-screen brother in Parenthood. She is now getting laughs in a new show, The Z-Suite on Tubi. Who is she?

She is Lauren Graham, 57.

The star was nearly unrecognizable as she enjoyed a coffee run with a friend in Los Angeles on Sunday.

The veteran star kept a low profile, placing a black billed hat over her dark locks and wearing large sunglasses.

The Golden Globe nominee bundled up in a black puffy jacket over a black T-shirt and leggings for the quick errand.

She added a pop of color with her orange sneakers.

Graham's friend was also dressed in head-to-to black, and wore an official looking billed hat over her blonde bob.

The actress has received good reviews for her work on The Z-Suite, Tubi's first original series.

She stars as advertising executive who gets canceled after a disastrous campaign and replaced by Gen-Z employees who don't really know what they're doing.

She is Lauren Graham, 57. The star was nearly unrecognizable as she enjoyed a coffee run with a friend in Los Angeles on Sunday

Variety said the 'brilliant writing and excellent performances by Graham and the entire cast make The Z-Suite a skillful and bold comedy that skates along the line of satire and never tries to take itself too seriously.'

Graham is still best known as Lorelei Gilmore, a role she played for seven years, and she will be re-uniting with her on-screen mother, Kelly Bishop, for a dive into the Amy Sherman-Palladino Multiverse on March 29 at PaleyFest LA.

The actress shared the flyer on social media, which delighted the show's strong fanbase.

'Oh my gosh! Lauren Graham and Kelly Bishop reunited once again!!!'

The actress is now getting laughs in a new show, The Z-Suite on Tubi

On his podcast, I Am All In with Scott Patterson, the actor who played Lorelai's love interest Luke on the series spoke with an actress who was in competition for the part Graham ultimately won.

Madchen Amick, who appeared in season two of the show at the girlfriend of Rory's dad Christopher. So how did Graham treat her former rival?

'She was very gracious  really great,' Amick told Patterson.

'It's very hard to come on as a guest star onto a show, and people are already rolling, they already have their rhythm, they already know each other,' she explained.

'You know, it's like the new kid in school. You're just like, hi. And she was very, very gracious, very welcoming  wanted to make sure that I felt comfortable.'

Graham is best known for her role as Lorelai on Gilmore Girls, seen here with on-screen daughter Alexis Bledel. It's a role she reprised for 2016's Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life. She has called it 'the best part I've ever had'

Graham also starred as Sarah Braverman on the hit TV series Parenthood (Pictured with Erica Christensen, Peter Krause, Bonnie Bedelia, Craig T. Nelson and Dax Shepherd)

Her on-screen brother, Peter Krause, 59, was her partner for 11 years. The couple went their separate ways in 2021 (Pictured in Beverly Hills in April 2015)

Amick, who went on to have regular roles in 2017's Twin Peaks and Riverdale said the right actress got the part of Lorelai.

'I think it was really suited for Lauren Graham," she said. "I think she handled the cadence so naturally, you didn't question that it wasn't just how she existed naturally. I think she was really good at that.'

Graham has often said she would love the opportunity to play Lorelai Gilmore again, as she did in Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life and a Walmart commercial over the Christmas holidays.

'I always say "yes" because it's the best part I've ever had,' the actress said during a recent appearance on The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon, adding, 'And I loved doing it.'
A former Strictly Come Dancing finalist has broken his silence on his OnlyFans return as he reveals his time on daytime TV has 'run dry'.

Great British Bake Off alum John Whaite, 35, took to his social media page with a shirtless snap accompanied by a lengthy caption - where he proudly admitted he is living 'this one shot at life to the fullest'.

The GBBO winner defended his choice to re-join the X-rated subscription site and told his 297K followers that his 12 year TV career just 'didn't set him alight anymore'.

'Ive had a lot of DMs about why Ive re-joined OnlyFans, when I regretted it last time,' he began writing in the lengthy caption.

'Firstly, I think its important to remember that who we are, or at least little parts of us, can change.

A former Strictly Come Dancing finalist broke silence on his OnlyFans return as he revealed his time on daytime TV has 'ran dry'

Great British Bake Off alum John Whaite (pictured) took to his social media page with a sultry shirtless snap accompanied by a lengthy caption - where he proudly admitted he is living 'this one shot at life to the fullest'

'I for one dont want to live my life stuck in a steadfast template that restricts my next move.

'Secondly, I enjoy performance. I enjoy being a show off. I enjoy building my body and celebrating the results.

'Thats not for everyone, and thats ok - if you dont like meat just walk on by the butchers shop.

'Last time being on OF didnt gel with my role on daytime television. But I quit the TV industry 18 months ago and havent looked back.

'I had an incredible 12-year-long career and achieved some extraordinary milestones that Ill proudly take with me to the grave.

'I loved it (mostly) while it lasted, and made some wonderful friendships which Ill cherish, but that river, for me, had run dry. It didnt set me alight anymore.

'Since launching @ruffpuffbrownies and seeing how successful an enterprise can be with nurture and care, Ive learned about business - creativity, marketing, overheads, margins - all sorts of things that were once alien to me.

'Im treating my OF career as precisely that - business. It cycles money into the economy, it puts food on my table, it gives some people a little bit of cheeky joy - its a service.

John got candid with his 297K followers, cherishing the extraordinary milestones he achieved while working in the TV industry for 12 years - but admitted it just 'didn't set him alight anymore'

John, who won the third series of the baking show impressing judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood in 2012, launched his profile under the name 'Jonny Boy'

He left fans divided but plenty raced to support him in the comment section including music icon Michelle Visage

'If its not for you, simply pass it by, and know that Ill always be using this platform for food, humour, and little glimpses into my life.'

He finished by reflecting: 'Well all be dead, buried and long forgotten one day, so Im grabbing the bull by the horns and living this one shot at life to the fullest.

'And if you want to judge, go ahead, I wont stop you. Our worlds may be slightly different but neither of us have fallen off themyet.'

Fans were left divided, with many praising John's latest 'business venture' while raising eyebrows among others - as they wrote in the comment section:

'Big fan of both your brownies and your buns x';

'Look at you speaking your truth with respect for yourself and for others. Now thats worth following';

'We all change. We all evolve. I love you and your evolution. And I am so proud of you for building not one, but two businesses in just the last 12 months';

'Youre one smart cookie/brownie John. And your intelligence, work ethic and laser-sharp wit blew me away when we worked together. Go YOU xx';

'You are a wonder! Wishing you all the love, happiness, and fun in this wild world, John';

American music icon Michelle Visage also raced to share her approval echoing: 'You do you baby'.

The baker has become the first former Great British Bake Off star to join OnlyFans

The TV star became one half of the first all-male Strictly couple alongside professional dancer Johannes Radebe in 2021 with the pair going onto reach the BBC final

Another follower commented though: 'You were amazing on Strictly but I'm not sure I'm into photos of you with your pants half down. Why not use your talents in life to entertain?

'Lots of guys have bodies like yours, including my own son, but I just don't get the flaunting so publicly but hope it makes you happy' - to which the baker replied bluntly: 'Id definitely stay away - each to their own. X'

Another user penned agreeing: 'Sorry but I think there is a time and place for a pic like this, love you and am a 70yr old mum of two amazing day sons, who make me feel loved and proud, no offence intended x.'

John, who won the third series of the baking show impressing judges Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood in 2012, launched his profile under the name 'Jonny Boy', writing in his bio: 'The side of me you haven't seen... yet.'

He has signed up to OnlyFans, promising to share 'solo' and 'collaborative' content at a cost of 10 per month or 27 for a three-month package, three years after starring on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing.

The TV star reached the final alongside professional dancer Johannes Radebe, 37, who he later confessed to 'falling in love' with and needing to take timeout from his long-term relationship.

But John and husband Paul Atkins are still going strong, last week celebrating their first wedding anniversary after narrowly avoiding the Strictly curse.

John's signup to OnlyFans comes after he left Steph's Packed Lunch when the daytime show was cancelled in 2023, and he announced his 'career in television is now done.'

John found fame in 2012 when he won The Great British Bake Off, which at the time aired on BBC Two before moving to BBC One in 2014

John's marriage to husband Paul Atkins is going strong with the couple celebrating their one year wedding anniversary last week

John told MailOnline: 'Since leaving the TV industry, I decided to focus on business.

'Now I run two fairly successful and exciting businesses.

'One sells brownies and cookies while the other is a meatier enterprise...

'If you want to buy my sweet treats head to Ruff Puff Brownies and if you want to buy my meat head to my OnlyFans page.'

John was beaten in the Strictly final by EastEnders actress Rose Ayling-Ellis who took home the glitter ball trophy in 2021.
Harrowing new details in the death of former My Chemical Romance drummer Bob Bryar aged just 44 have emerged.

Bryar was found dead at his home in Tennessee on November 26 2024, just two days before Thanksgiving.

The rocker's 'badly decomposed' body was found next to three large nitrous oxide canisters, per an autopsy report obtained by TMZ.

The canisters had attached tubing - meaning they were 'ready for use' - and antidepressant medication was also found at his home, the Bedford County Medical Examiner revealed in the report.

Bryar's body was too badly decomposed to determine an exact cause of death but concerns were raised over an 'intentional or accidental overdose.'

The report notes significant parts of Bryar's body suffered 'animal scavenging activity' with two dogs found in his home at the time of discovery of the body,

Harrowing new details in the death of former My Chemical Romance drummer Bob Bryar aged just 44 have emerged; seen in 2006

His cause and manner of death are 'best classified as undetermined.'

Bryar was last seen alive on November 4, the same day he posted his final tweets, one of which simply read 'TULSI,' seemingly referencing former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.

As the longest-serving and final official drummer for My Chemical Romance from 2004 to 2010, Bryar's departure was shrouded in rumors of tension with his bandmatesFrank Iero, Mikey Way, Gerard Way, and Ray Toro.

While the band members did not discuss the specifics, multiple sources confirmed that a falling out had occurred, per MTV.

Bryar replaced former drummer Matt Pelissier following the release of the band's second album Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge (2004).

He went on to perform and record music with the group on all of their subsequent releases until his departure.

On March 3, 2010, guitarist Iero revealed that Bryar had left the band.

'As of 4 weeks ago, My Chemical Romance and Bob Bryar parted ways. This was a painful decision for all of us to make and was not taken lightly. We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors and expect you all to do the same,' he wrote on a statement shared to their official website.

He most recently teamed back up with the group in 2013 on their record, Conventional Weapons.

After retiring from music in 2014, he became a real estate agent and an active advocate of various dog rescues and sanctuaries.

In 2021, Bryar auctioned off the drum set he last used with the bandboth on tour and during the recording of their iconic 2006 album The Black Paradeto raise funds for an animal rescue center in Tennessee, according to Rolling Stone.

The rocker's 'badly decomposed' body was found next to three large nitrous oxide canisters, per an autopsy report; pictured with bandmates (Ray Toro, Mikey Way, Gerard Way and Frank Iero)

Bryar was last seen alive on November 4, the same day he posted his final tweets, one of which simply read 'TULSI,' seemingly referencing former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard

The canisters had attached tubing - meaning they were 'ready for use' - and antidepressant medication was also found at his home (seen in 2004)

Bryar's body was too badly decomposed to determine an exact cause of death but concerns were raised over an 'intentional or accidental overdose' (seen in 2007)

'This is my very last drum kit and its ready for a new home. I used this kit when [the band] opened the MTV VMAs in 2005, the following tour, and for some of the [Black Parade] record,' he wrote in the listing, per the outlet.

Bryar was born in Chicago, Illinois and began playing drums from a young age.

In school, he performed in marching and jazz bands before going off to study sound engineering at the University of Florida.

In 2015, Bryar tweeted that after being 'kicked out of MyChem' that he 'became the most depressed, angry, suicidal person ever.'

In a later, since-deleted tweet, he wrote: 'Now, I am on so many pills that I feel a bit better, although, it still (b)others me every day. In a recent conversation, I was told I wont be back.'

Although My Chemical Romance was scheduled to tour in 2025, Bryar was not scheduled to reunite with the band.

The current lineup of My Chemical Romance consists of lead vocalist Gerard Way, lead guitarist Ray Toro, rhythm guitarist Frank Iero and bassist Mikey Way.

If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, available 24/7/365.
Jeff Bezos suffered a humiliating slip as he arrived at Beyonce and Jay-Z's Oscars afterparty at LA's Chateau Marmont on Sunday.

The billionaire Amazon mogul, 61, slid out of his car as he made his grand entrance at the glitzy venue alongside fiancee Lauren Sanchez and pop superstar Katy Perry.

Bezos, who is worth an estimated $227billion, looked surprised as his legs buckled underneath him, before a diligent valet helped him steady himself.

The businessman, who attended the Vanity Fair bash earlier in the evening, looked sharp in a black velvet suit.

Sanchez, 55, stunned in a formfitting, strapless white gown with a feathered hem and train.

Perry, 40, showed off her incredible frame in a mirrored strappy gown as she joined the couple.

Jeff Bezos suffered a humiliating slip as he arrived at Beyonce and Jay-Z's Oscars afterparty at LA's Chateau Marmont on Sunday

Jeff popped the question to Lauren in May 2023, while they were on vacation in the South of France.

Their engagement came four years after they went public with their relationship in early 2019.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture.

Demi, 62, had been a clear front-runner and her fury was palpable as 25-year-old rising star Mikey's name was called out in front of a stunned audience at the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.

Other big winners on Sunday night included Zoe Saldana, who took home the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in the controversial Emilia Perez.

Adrien Brody triumphed over Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor award with his performance in the The Brutalist.

Kieran Culkin kicked off the evening with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain.

Demi could be seen with a clenched jaw as her name wasn't called, but she did say 'nice' to herself as she applauded Mikey's big win.

It was a particularly surprising upset because Demi had won the actress award at most of the major pre-Oscar events for her role in The Substance.

Mikey portrays an escort in Anora, an independent film with a $6 million budget for which Sean Baker won Best Director.

Bezos, who is worth an estimated $227billion, looked surprised as his legs buckled underneath him, before a diligent valet helped him steady himself

Bezos was continuing the glitzy night at the bash

Sanchez slipped into a busty yellow silk gown for the bash

Katy Perry wore a mirrored gown as she arrived at the soiree

The businessman attended the Vanity Fair bash earlier in the evening with his glamorous fiancee

Mick Jagger, Melanie Hamrick, Lauren and Jeff pictured

The pair also met Nancy Pelosi

She recognised the sex worker community in a touching acceptance speech.

She said: 'I also just want to, again, recognize and honor the sex worker community. I will. Yes. I will continue to support and be an ally.

'All of the incredible people, the women that I've had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this incredible experience.'

At the end of the night the film earned top prize Best Picture Award over The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part Two, Emilia Perez, Im Still Here, Nickel Boys, The Substance, and Wicked.

Anora's writer and director Sean Baker also earned three awards including: Best Original Screenplay, Achievement in Film Editing, and the coveted Best Director.

The film is centered around a young escort named Ani (played by Mikey) from Brooklyn meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch. Once the news reaches Russia, her fairy tale is threatened as his parents set out for New York to get the marriage annulled.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award earlier in the night.

The 51-year-old actor stopped the exit music from playing as he was recognized for his work in The Brutalist.

Demi Moore was left crushed as Mikey Madison beat her to the coveted Best Actress award at the 2025 Oscars, on a night when Anora dominated with five wins including Best Picture

Another big winner included Zoe Saldana in the Best Supporting Actress category for the controversial Emilia Perez

Adrien Brody (left) bested Timothee Chalamet for the Best Actor gong for The Brutalist as Kieran Culkin (right) kicked off the night with a Best Supporting Actor win for A Real Pain

The big four acting winners are seen from left to right: Adrien, Mikey, Zoe, and Kieran

He beat out an impressive field including: Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown, Colman Domingo  Sing Sing, Ralph Fiennes  Conclave, and Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice.

Adrian previously won Best Actor for his work on classic film The Piano back in 2003.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.

Emilia Perez has earned a tide of negative publicity after racist and Islamophobic tweets from her costar Karla Sofia Gascon  some quite recent  were discovered.

Netflix went so far as to stop covering Gascon's travel for awards shows, but she did appear at the Oscars.

Adrien Brody took home his second ever Best Actor award at the 2025 Oscars

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Oscars started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night

Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design for his work in Wicked

The award show started out in fine form as Kieran Culkin took home the first award of the night.

It kicked off with the 42-year-old actor taking home Actor in a Supporting Role for his role in A Real Pain.

He beat out an impressive field including: Yura Borisov  Anora, Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown, Guy Pearce  The Brutalist, and his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice.

Blockbuster Wicked did not come away empty handed as Paul Tazewell became the first Black male winner of Achievement in Costume Design.
Israeli actress Gal Gadot was falsely accused of 'refusing' to present the award

No Other Land won Best Documentary at Sunday's Academy Awards

Gal Gadot is shutting down claims that she 'refused' to present the Best Documentary Oscar to Pro-Palestinian film No Other Land at Sunday's ceremony.

The Israeli actress was swept up in the rumor mill after a viral post on social media claimed that she'd pulled out of presenting the award to the documentary.

The post falsely implied that the actress - who is one of Hollywood's most vocal supporters of Israel - had pulled out of presenting the award because No Other Land highlights the plight of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.

However, her representatives told DailyMail.com that the rumors were completely untrue, and that Gadot was never scheduled to present Best Documentary.

Instead, the Wonder Woman actress presented the Best Visual Effects award alongside her Snow White co-star Rachel Zegler, which was always planned.

Gal Gadot has shut down claims that she refused to present the Best Documentary Oscar to Pro-Palestinian film No Other Land at Sunday's ceremony

The Wonder Woman actress presented the Best Visual Effects award alongside her Snow White co-star Rachel Zegler, which was always scheduled

Selena Gomez and Samuel L Jackson handed out the Best Documentary Oscar to No Other Land.

No Other Land's director Basel Adra was heckled as he delivered an impassioned critique of Donald Trump's foreign policy relating to the Israel-Palestine crisis during his acceptance speech for the documentary.

Adra gripped the Oscar for the harrowing documentary, which captured the plight of Palestinians throughout the ongoing war with Israel - dating long before October 7.

But as he slammed 'this administration's foreign policy' for blocking the path to peace, a member of the crowd shouted 'get rid of Hamas', according to a Vulture reporter who heard the interaction.

Adra is a Palestinian activist who created the film documenting how he made sense of the destruction of his homeland in the West Bank alongside Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham.

Speaking to the crowd of Hollywood bigwigs, Abraham said: 'When I look at Basel, I see my brother. But we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and Basel is under military law that destroys his life and he cannot control.

'There is a different path. A political solution without ethnic supremacy with national rights for both of our people... the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path.'

'Why?' he asked as the crowd cheered. 'Can't you see that we are intertwined, that my people can be truly safe if Basel's people are truly free... There is another way. It is not too late.'

No Other Land highlights the plight of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank

Selena Gomez and Samuel L Jackson handed out the Best Documentary Oscar to No Other Land

Adra was equally impassioned about the plight of Gazans during his speech, expressing his desire for his two month old daughter to grow up in a safer world than he did.

'Two months ago I became a father, and my hope to my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I'm living now,' he said.

'The harsh reality we have been enduring for decades and still resist,' he continued.

'We call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.'

Despite No Other Land now being an Oscar winning film and enjoying buzz for several months leading up to the big night, it has failed to secure an American distribution contract.

The filmmakers have said that the film is being blocked from US distribution for 'political' reasons.

'Were obviously talking about the Israeli military occupation of the West Bank, and its very ugly The conversation in the United States appears to be far less nuanced  there is much less space for this kind of criticism, even when it comes in the form of a film,' Abraham told Variety.

Trump shocked the world when he revealed he had ambitions to turn Gaza into the Riviera of the Middle East.

No Other Land's director Basel Adra was heckled after calling for an end to the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians during his acceptance speech

More than 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched strikes in the wake of the October 7 Hamas terror attack

'I'm committed to buying and owning Gaza,' he said in February.

In his vision, US reconstruction would create thousands of jobs and spare Palestinians the pain and expense of rebuilding once again.

He claimed his plans were based on humanitarian ideals, but has sparked outcry from his critics and foreign leaders who say it amounts to 'ethnic cleansing' of the two million Palestinians who call Gaza home.

Control of the territory has been one of the key flashpoints in the Arab-Israeli conflict, triggering waves of violence and spreading instability through the region for decades.

More than 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched strikes in the wake of the October 7 Hamas terror attack.

The figures are from last year, and are made up primarily of women and children.

In a peer-reviewed study published in The Lancet journal last year, authors believe the real death toll to be 41% higher than what has been reported, according to NBC.

Various estimates have put the death toll at between 55,000 and 78,000 for the first nine months of the war.
Adrien Brody not only won Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist at the Oscars 2025 on Sunday but he also earned the longest acceptance speech in Academy Awards history.

The 51-year-old actor - who was also slammed over a 'disgusting' act - beat nominees Timothee Chalamet, Colman Domingo, Sebastian Stan and Ralph Fiennes to win his second ever Oscar in the coveted category.

He then proceeded to have the longest speech ever in the 97 year history of the Academy Awards as it clocked in at five minutes and 40 seconds in total.

The previous record was held by Greer Garson according to the Guinness World Records as hers was reportedly five minutes and 30 seconds when she won for Mrs. Miniver in 1943.

Adrien was brutally roasted on X (formally Twitter) for the length of his speech.

One user wrote: 'Adrian Brody acceptance speech more like the brutal list. too many names!'

Adrien Brody not only won Best Actor for his role in The Brutalist at the Oscars 2025 on Sunday but he also earned the longest acceptance speech in Academy Awards history as he proceeded to have the longest speech ever in the 97 year history of the Academy Awards clocking in at five minutes and 40 seconds in total

Another said: 'Adrien Brody taking 1 whole minute to get on the stage, throwing his gum on the floor, and proceeding to have a 6.5 minute speech where he demands the orchestra to stop playing so he can keep yapping.'

Other X uses commented that not only was the speech long but they felt like the two-time Oscar winner didn't really say anything of note.

A user posted a .GIF of former US presidential candidate Kamala Harris shushing with the caption: 'adrien brody having the longest oscar speech in history but not saying anything worth remembering i have to laugh.'

Another said: 'adrian brody nothing burger speech GET OFF THE SCREEN.'

This came as he was also slammed over a 'disgusting' act just before the record-breaking speech.

The star was walking up the steps to the stage he turned around, took his gum out of his mouth and threw it to girlfriend and Harvey Weinstein's ex Georgina Chapman, 48 - much to viewers' disgust.

Chapman was seen running up to her partner and diligently catching the gum before he made his speech.

He said: 'Winning an award like this signifies a destination and something my character references in the film.

The 51-year-old actor - who was also slammed over a 'disgusting' act - beat nominees Timothee Chalamet , Colman Domingo, Sebastian Stan and Ralph Fiennes to win his second ever Oscar in the coveted category

The previous record was held by Greer Garson according to the Guinness World Records as hers was reportedly five minutes and 30 seconds when she won for Mrs. Miniver in 1943; she is pictured in the film alongside Walter Pidgeon

Adrien was brutally roasted on X (formally Twitter ) for the length of his speech

2025 Oscar Winners: AT A GLANCE Best Picture: Anora Actress in a Leading Role: Mikey Madison  Anora Actor in a Leading Role: Adrien Brody  The Brutalist Actress in a Supporting Role: Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez Actor in a Supporting Role: Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain Adrien Brody, Mikey Madison, Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin are seen left to right Best Director: Sean Baker  Anora Original Screenplay: Sean Baker  Anora Achievement in Film Editing: Sean Baker  Anora Adapted Screenplay: Conclave  Peter Straughan International Feature Film: Im Still Here (Brazil) Documentary Feature Film: No Other Land Achievement in Costume Design: Paul Tazewell  Wicked Advertisement

Several hilrious .GIFs and video reactions were used

Other X uses commented that not only was the speech long but they felt like the two-time Oscar winner didn't really say anything of note

'But to me, it also, beyond the pinnacle of a career, it is a chance to begin again and the opportunity to hopefully be fortunate enough so that the next 20 years of my life, I can prove that I am worthy of such meaningful, important and relevant roles.

He thanked Chapman and the two children she shares with jailed Weinstein, saying: 'I know its been a rollercoaster. Thank you for accepting me into your life' and revealed the two youngsters call him 'Popsie.'

Fans quickly slammed the star for the gum throw, writing: 'adrien brody couldve used his long speech to apologize to his partner for throwing gum at her.

Others wrote: 'Adrien Brody THROWING his gum at Georgina Chapman while on the stairs to accept his award I honestly more shocking to me than Will Smith slapping Chris Rock.

'arrest adrien brody for hurling his gum at his wife at the oscars.

'adrien brody couldve used his long speech to apologize to his partner for throwing gum at her

'Adrien Brodys wife just won the award for Best Supportive Significant Other and her statuette is a wad of her husbands chewed gum that he tossed at her on his way up the stairs to accept his Oscar. Next level.

'Adrien Brody throwing gum at his wife and then trying to give a moving speech somehow even worse than both??

Meanwhile, Brody was slammed over a 'disgusting' act before that record-breaking speech

However, as the star was walking up the steps to the stage, he turned around, took his gum out of his mouth and threw it to girlfriend and Harvey Weinstein's ex Georgina Chapman, 48

The Brutalist actor, 51, was emotional as his name was called out by 2024 winner Cillian Murphy, beating Timothee Chalamet, Colman Domingo, Sebastian Stan and Ralph Fiennes

The star shared a kiss with his partner, but later threw gum at her

Chapman was seen running up to her partner and diligently catching the gum before he made his speech

Fans were left shocked by the star's act

The star is pictured in The Brutalist with Best Supporting Actress nominee Felicity Jones

Brody was joined on the red carpet on Sunday by his parents Sylvia Plachy and Elliot Brody ahead of winning his award

A sweet moment saw him give his mum a kiss on the forehead on the red carpet

He later celebrated with Cillian Murphy in the press room as he showed off his award

Murphy picked up the Best Actor award last year and was on hand to award Brody

Adrien is pictured with Georgina earlier in the night

Anora star Mikey Madison pulled off the biggest upset of the night with her Best Actress win

The Substance star Demi Moore had been the heavy favorite - and looked visibly disappointed

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress at the 2025 Oscars

Mikey Madison served up the biggest shock of the evening as she won Best Actress for Anora, beating heavy favorite Demi Moore for The Substance.

Anora dominated the wins, taking home Best Picture and Best Director for Sean Baker.

Zoe Saldana shook the controversy surrounding her film Emilia Perez as she earned Best Supporting Actress earlier in the night.

The show hit a high note as the 46-year-old American actress was crowned for the Netflix film.

She triumphed over: Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown, Ariana Grande  Wicked, Felicity Jones  The Brutalist, and Isabella Rossellini  Conclave.

Zoe became the first ever Oscar winner of Dominican descent and made sure to thank her ancestors for paving the way to have a successful acting career in America.
Jailed Harvey Weinstein's shock response to Adrien Brody mentioning his children in his Oscars acceptance speech has been revealed.

Brody, 51 - who has been dating Weinstein's ex-wife Georgina Chapman, 48, since 2019, picked up his second Best Actor Oscar at Sunday's ceremony and in an emotional acceptance speech, thanked his partner and her two children.

The Brutalist star said: 'I share this with my amazing partner Georgina, who has not only reinvigorated my own self-worth but my sense of value and my values and her beautiful children, Dash and India.

Revealing the nickname Weinstein's children aged 14 and 11 have for him, he added: 'It's been a rollercoaster, but thank you for accepting me into your life, and Popsy's coming home a winner.'

Former film mogul and convicted rapist Weinstein, 72, is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence at Rikers Island.

Weinstein's spokesman Juda Engelmayer exclusively told DailyMail.com: Harvey is happy for Georgina and grateful that his kids are being loved and cared for as they deserve to be.'

Jailed Harvey Weinstein's shock response to Adrien Brody mentioning his children in his Oscars acceptance speech has been revealed

Disgraced former film mogul Weinstein, 72, is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence at Rikers Island after being convicted of rape and sexual assault in 2020 - pictured July 2024

Brody, 51 - who has been dating Weinstein's ex-wife Georgina Chapman, 48, since 2019, picked up his second Best Actor Oscar at Sunday's ceremony and in an emotional acceptance speech, thanked his partner and her two children

Fashion designer Chapman divorced Weinstein in 2017 shortly after his horrific crimes against women in Hollywood were exposed in a bombshell expose.

In October it was reported Weinstein had been receiving treatment behind bars at Rikers Island for a rare type of bone marrow cancer known as chronic myeloid leukemia.

Weinstein had spent most of the summer hospitalized with various maladies, from Covid and double pneumonia to needing fluid on his heart and lungs removed.

As for Weinsteins current health situation, Engelmayer said, He is fighting for his health and healthcare. Its challenging where he is and not in the hospital where he should be. He is doing as well as he can.

He added that Weinstein went to the prison hospital last month for blood pressure issues but is back in the prison.

Weinstein has denied that he raped or sexually assaulted anyone.

Weinstein became the most prominent villain of the #MeToo movement, which took root in 2017 when women began to go public with accounts of his behavior.

At the original trial, Weinstein was convicted of forcibly performing oral sex on a TV and film production assistant in 2006 and rape in the third degree for an attack on an aspiring actor in 2013.

Weinstein saw his 2020 conviction on rape and sexual assault charges overturned last April and he was ordered to undergo a new trial.

Revealing the nickname the children have for him, he added: 'It's been a rollercoaster, but thank you for accepting me into your life, and Popsy's coming home a winner.'

Weinstein's spokesman Juda Engelmayer exclusively told DailyMail.com: Harvey is happy for Georgina and grateful that his kids are being loved and cared for as they deserve to be' - pictured 2014

Weinstein became the most prominent villain of the #MeToo movement, which took root in 2017 when women began to go public with accounts of his behavior - pictured 2020

The case was overturned after the Court of Appeals determined the trial judge unfairly allowed testimony against Weinstein based on allegations from other women that were not part of the trial.

Those allegations will be part of his retrial, which is set to begin in New York on April 15.

Weinstein's acquittals on charges of predatory sexual assault and first-degree rape still stand.

After the retrial, Weinstein is due to start serving a 16-year sentence in California for a separate rape conviction in Los Angeles, authorities said.

Weinstein was convicted in Los Angeles in 2022.

Weinstein, the co-founder of Miramax and The Weinstein Company film studios, was once one of the most powerful people in Hollywood, producing such Oscar winners as Pulp Fiction and Shakespeare in Love.
Wave Group and Belgium's Agristo NV will invest around Rs 750 Crore to expand their potato processing plant in Uttar Pradesh to make premium french fries, amid rising global demand for processed food.

In 2019, Wave Group firm Masa Global Food Private Limited and Agristo's subsidiary firm IMSTO NV, Belgium had formed a 50:50 joint venture firm to establish a potato processing plant at Bijnor to make dehydrated potato flakes.

The name of the joint venture firm is Agristo Masa Private Limited. The plant started operations in 2022 with an annual capacity of 7,500 tonnes.

In an interview with PTI, Wave Group Chairman Manpreet Singh Chadha noted that there is an immense growth potential in Indian food processing sector.

He also stressed on the need to boost crop yields and processing capacity for augmenting farmers income.

"We are setting up a new production line for export quality french fries at Bijnor," Chadha said.

He said the total investment on this expansion will be around Rs 750 Crore, which will be financed through equity and debt.

The joint venture had invested around Rs 300 Crore on setting up the existing plant, taking the total investment commitment to more than Rs 1,000 Crore.

Chadha said the new production line with 80,000 tonnes per annum capacity will become operational in the next two years and cater to both domestic and global markets.

The JV is into business to business (B2B) segment only.

"Our aim is to empower the farmers and diversify their cash crop beyond sugarcane. We have helped these farmers to double the potatoes output with the help of new technologies. Their income has increased by 50 per cent over the last three-four years, " said Chadha.

Princess Astrid of the Kingdom of Belgium, Finance Minister of Uttar Pradesh Suresh Kumar Khanna and Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh Manoj Singh attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the production facility.

Wave Group already has two sugar manufacturing plants in Bijnor area and has been procuring sugarcane from farmers.

The potato processing plant set up by the joint venture firm has helped in enhancing farmers income of this region, Chadha said.

"We are helping farmers in accessing good quality seeds for potato production. We are also procuring all potatoes from farmers at a very remunerative price," Chadha said.

Around 2,500 farmers are expected to benefit from this expansion.

This is in addition to the 500 farmers in the region who have been provided sustainable livelihood opportunities through the plant's interventions.

The productivity of potato has gone up from 17 tonnes per hectare to 32 tonnes per hectare.

The Bijnor plant caters to both domestic and export markets, with North America, Middle East, South East Asia and Japan being the key destinations overseas.

Filip Wallays, Co-CEO of Agristo, said, "The Bijnor plant is a testament of how results can be achieved when vision and technical expertise are combined. Partnering with Masa Global Food has allowed us to contribute in a meaningful manner to the rapidly evolving Indian agriculture and food processing sectors and ensure development of all stakeholders."

To ensure the holistic development of farmers and the overall development of the region's agricultural landscape, the JV firm Agristo Masa has hired agronomists from Belgium and The Netherlands.

The joint venture firm is also assisting farmers in this region in farm mechanisation.

Wave Group is into real estate, sugar and food processing businesses. It has real estate projects in Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
Henry Brothers Construction, which is headquartered in Northern Ireland, has joined University Hospitals of Leicester to celebrate the topping out ceremony at the new Endoscopy Unit being built at Leicester General Hospital.



University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust (UHL) executives, members of the endoscopy department and representatives from the construction team attended the event at the specialist unit which is being built next to the East Midlands Planned Care Centre.



Last year Henry Brothers was awarded a 10m contract to build the one-storey facility which is being delivered to a BREEAM Excellent standard and will feature endoscopy pods, discharge lounges, offices, staff areas and stores, with a plant room on the roof.



The project is Henry Brothers first contract at Leicester General Hospital.



Managing director for Henry Brothers Construction Ian Taylor said: We were very proud to have been appointed to deliver a new endoscopy unit at Leicester General Hospital for University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust.



Henry Brothers has significant experience of delivering new public sector investment in the Midlands and other areas of the UK. The topping out ceremony represents a key stage in the development of this important new facility which will help to improve healthcare for the people of Leicestershire and the surrounding areas.



To mark the occasion, a tree will be planted on the site as part of the landscaping process. UHL Deputy Chief Executive Simon Barton said: Its great to be able to celebrate this milestone in the project, as were excited to be building an important new facility for the endoscopy service here at Leicester General Hospital.



Endoscopy is a key part of our diagnostic services, and also provides treatment for some conditions, and this new unit is part of our commitment to providing state-of-the-art healthcare for the people of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.



This is part of our wider strategy to improve care and cut both waiting lists and waiting times. Endoscopy at East Midlands is right next door to the East Midlands Planned Care Centre, which opened in December and will eventually provide around 100,000 appointments every year.



Its great to have these celebratory moments as a team, as everyone is working hard on behalf of our patients. Id like to thank everyone involved.



Other members of the team working with East Midlands-based Henry Brothers Construction on the development are project manager Selcon, quantity surveyor Rider Levitt Bucknall, principal designer Stephen George & Partners, architect P+HS, structural engineer Curtins, and mechanical and electrical engineer CPW.



Completion of the building is due late summer 2025.



The endoscopy unit will see around 17,500 patients each year once it is opened.

Henry Brothers Construction is part of The Henry Group, a Northern Ireland-based business which comprises a number of manufacturing and construction sector companies, ranging from external construction through to interiors fit-out. In partnership with clients, it has a proven track record in education, defence, accommodation, commercial, industrial, transport

and healthcare sectors.



For more information, visit henrybrothers.co.uk
The Derry branch of United Against Racism removed Nazi stickers around the city.

The activist group took to Facebook to share the images before and after they had removed the far-right stickers.

United Against RacismDerry and North West has claimed in their post to social media that the city and the northwest region are anti-fascist areas, with the group stating that they are fighting racism and fascism.

The Facebook post from the activists said that they were made aware of stickers in the Derry area demonstrating support for fascist and Nazi ideals.

They said: These have been quickly removed.

The group then sent a message to those putting the stickers up, stating that Derry is anti-fascist and that nobody in the city wishes to promote the message on the stickers.

They said: If you see anyone putting up these stickers, please challenge them (if you feel you can), remove the stickers, and feel free to contact UAR if you need assistance.

Keep Derry Tidy, Bin the Nazis.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has started a two-day visit to Berlin to further strengthen and promote economic links with Germany and the wider European market.

The Minister will hold a series of meetings with key business groups to raise the profile of Northern Ireland as a destination for investment and trade.

Dr Archibald said: As the largest economy in Europe and one of the largest globally, Germany is a high value market offering significant commercial opportunities for companies from the north.

Our unique dual market access gives us a key advantage over other regions. Bilateral trade with Germany is thriving, generating more than 1.1billion in 2023, and continues to rise, as more companies seek to take advantage.

With our expertise in high potential sectors such as cybersecurity, FinTech, AI, life and health sciences and advanced manufacturing, and the global market demand in these areas, it is clear that Germany offers potential for even further growth in trade and investment.

On her first day in Berlin the Minister will address female business leaders at SHeconomy, a roundtable event organised by the British Chamber of Commerce in Germany. She will then hold meetings with policy experts and business groups representing manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

The Minister will also visit Smart City Berlin, the citys official digital transformation organisation.

Peta Conn, Director of Great Britain and Europe at Invest NI, said: The German market presents substantial growth opportunities for Northern Ireland companies. For over 25 years, our in-market team has been building relationships with key stakeholders and companies to raise the profile of Northern Ireland as a destination to trade with and invest in.

The next two days will build on this work and our previous trip last year to strengthen relationships and profile the unique competitive advantage dual market access presents for local companies in Northern Ireland.

On day two the Minister will visit ITB Berlin, Europes largest international tourism trade expo, where 28 tourism providers from the north and south of Ireland will be exhibiting, supported by Tourism Ireland.

Concluding, the Minister said: Economic links between the north and Germany are strong and continuing to grow. This trip will build on the success we have had to date, and the work done by my predecessor, to further deepen relationships with high value contacts in Germany, in turn leading to even greater commercial opportunities in the future.
A united Ireland is a unique opportunity to create an all-island public health service that finally ends the crisis in our hospitals, it has been claimed.

Commenting as Derry Sinn Fein launched a new leaflet on the benefits of Irish unity, Sinn Fein councillor Sandra Duffy urged the public to get involved in the discussion about Irelands future.

Cllr Duffy said: A referendum on Irish unity is coming and that represents a unique opportunity to finally end the crisis in our hospitals and create an all-island public health service.

Our health service is at crisis point and our health and social care workers have been badly let down and neglected as a result of years of cuts and austerity imposed by the British government.

However, we have a chance to change all that and to build a better future and the kind of health service that our people, and our health and social care workers, deserve.

Through a united Ireland, we can create an all-island health service that is free at the point of delivery and which provides first class care when its needed and which properly values, respects and rewards the health and social care workforce.

That is a huge incentive and stands in stark contrast to the constant cycle of crisis and cuts to all our public services offered by the British government.

At some point we will be asked to choose between those two realities so I would urge everyone to get involved in the discussion now and to begin planning for a new and better future for health and for all public services.
A man who kicked his pregnant girlfriend in the stomach and also kicked a 11 week old pup causing it to be sick has been jailed at Derry Crown Court.

Jordan Kavanagh (29) of Rathbrady Road in Limavady was charged with a series of offences including non-fatal strangulation, assaulting the woman and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.

All of the offences occurred on December 13, 2023.

Before passing sentence Judge Neil Rafferty KC praised the victim for taking the case and said she had been 'totally vindicated'.

Describing the case as 'disgraceful and upsetting' the judge said the woman had told Kavanagh she was pregnant.

On the date in question the defendant accused her of stealing his beer and in a fit of anger he kicked their 11 week old puppy so hard the dog was sick.

Kavanagh then told the injured party to leave or he would kill her before threatening her with a pair of scissors.

The defendant was then said to have calmed down and hugged the victim before dragging her across the room.

He then kicked her in the stomach and said he would kill the baby before he would let her hold it.

When the victim's mother was taking her to hospital Kavanagh got into the vehicle and grabbed herby the throat while punching her in the face.

When she was getting out of the vehicle he told her if she contacted police he would burn her out.

Police were called and Kavanagh arrested.

Judge Rafferty said that it was 'an appalling assault on the young woman' and a 'brutal and repugnant' attack on defenceless animal.

He jailed Kavanagh for three years, 18 months in custody and 18 months on licence, and imposed a restraining order on him for a period of five years.
An attack on a mural in the Currynierin area of Derry has been condemned.

Red paint was daubed on a memorial, which bears the names of local youths including Ciaran 'Walla' Doherty who tragically died in car accident in 2008.

Doherty's funeral show of solidarity between youths from the Tullyally and Currynierin areas.

Local community worker Gretta Donaghy urged those behind the attack to stop.

"It's a disgrace," Ms Donaghy said: "These incidents are constantly happening and I would strongly condemn this behaviour. We don't know why its been done or who did it. The memorial means a lot to the children there.

"That generator (which the mural is painted on) is on someone's private property. The owner is a single woman and she's annoyed about what happened."

Ms Donaghy said that the attack on the mural is the latest of a string of incidents.

She said: "Every couple of months something like this happens and we're all sick of it.

"There was incident last week of people throwing eggs at people's windows, it's childish behaviour but eggs can be washed off.

"I have a good connection with the children here, they come and talk to me and we trust each other and we have a good relationship built up over the last couple of years but they're disgusted, they're angry and they're scared.

"We just want to get along. We got two big PEACE deals working here at the minute and it's going great. It's 2025 these type of incidents should be behind us, they should be a thing of the past. Nobody wants this to happen."
A young Derry woman has been left majorly out of pocket due to the shambles surrounding her Irish passport application.

As a result, Georgie OHagan has cautioned other first-time applicants about using the Post Offices passport postal service and has called for an Irish Passport Office to be opened in the North.

In October, 2024, Ms OHagan booked and paid for a holiday to Amsterdam with her girlfriend and two other friends. They were due to go away next month - March 2025.

At the same time, she applied for her passport at the main post office here in the city.

According to Ms OHagan, the Post Office staff member behind the counter checked she had included all of the correct documentation in her application pack; they then issued a postal order for the amount of the application.

She added: After a few weeks, I became concerned when my passport never arrived. I was going back and forth between the Post Office and Royal Mail trying in vain to get any information at all on where it might be.

Eventually I was told to claim back the money I had spent on the postal order I had sent with my passport application. My supporting documents were returned to me but no passport.

Worryingly, the passport application documents belonging to a person in County Derry were also sent to me along with my own returned documents; I then had to contact that person regarding that situation.

All of this makes no sense to me, especially as on Royal Mail tracking, it states my application pack went from Belfast to Dublin, and then for some reason known only to Royal Mail and An Post, it ended up in London at the Heathrow facility, where it has been ever since, said Ms OHagan.

Unable to travel abroad without her passport, Ms OHagan, has also told her her air carrier, EasyJet, will not refund the cost of her holiday.

I have lost the money for my passport and the money for the holiday. On top of that, I now have to restart a whole new passport application process, she said.

I am very disappointed at how this has all been handled and I am going to be missing out on a holiday I was so excited for.

In January, Foyle MP, Colum Eastwood, contacted Royal Mail regarding Ms OHagans missing passport.

In a response from the companys senior public affairs manager, he was told the International Tracked item posted to Ireland was not at its Heathrow Worldwide Distribution Centre, as Ms OHagans online tracking had led her to believe.

He added: [The passport application] originally posted in Belfast was dispatched to Dublin within a Belfast dispatch. As such, no customs declaration was required.

The tracking information confirms that the item arrived at the Dublin Mail Centre in Ireland on October 24. It remained with An Post at their [sic] Dublin Mail Centre until November 6, when it was returned to Royal Mail.

Unfortunately, despite our review of the tracking enquiry system on www.anpost.com, no clear tracking scan has been noted for why the item could not be delivered.

For undeliverable or loose items within the Royal Mail network, these are forwarded to the National Return Centre (NRC) in Belfast, where efforts are made to return them to the sender. However, passports are not retained at the NRC; they are instead forwarded directly to the relevant embassy, he said.

The public affairs manager confirmed Royal Mail did not maintain records of passports that are sent to embassies.

He recommended Ms OHagan should contact the Irish Embassy to confirm whether her passport has been received there.

Georgie OHagan described the situation between the Post Office, Royal Mail and An Post as bizarre.

She added: The response Colum Eastwood got from Royal Mail is even more bizarre.

How can anyone trust the Post Office now in the town with sending Irish passport applications up to Dublin?
Greencastle-based millionaire Peter Casey has announced that he intends to run for the Irish Presidency at the end of this year.

The 67-year-old, who finished as runner-up to Michael D Higgins in the 2018 Presidential Election with almost 350,000 votes, says hes a lot better prepared this time round.

Mr Casey ran unsuccessfully in European and general elections since then - but he says he always intended to run for President again.

The former RTE Dragons Den star, who is originally from Derry, has pledged to stand up more for Ireland, if elected.

Were being bullied by the European Union. We need to have a President who can actually represent Ireland better on the world stage.

READ NEXT: Royal Mail branded a 'shambles'

What we need to do is transfer power away from Europe, he said.

Casey slammed US President Donald Trump for his bullying of Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy in a meeting at the White House on Friday.

Mr Casey said President Trump and his Vice President JD Vance had completely disgraced themselves during the shocking Oval Office exchange, watched by the world.

It was embarrassing, the way they treated Zelenskiy, Mr Casey said, labelling it as bullying.

Mr Casey, whose planned accommodation centre for Ukrainian refugees at Lisfannon outside Buncrana was destroyed by fire in 2023, said he is in favour of migration.

We need to make it easier for the good people to come into our country, and we need to make it easier to stop the bad people from coming in.
Stormonts First Minister has pledged to be transparent over progress to achieve the targets set out in the Executives new programme for government.

Michelle ONeill said the publication of the first programme for government (PFG) agreed by a Stormont executive since 2011 marked a significant day for the coalition in Belfast.

When a draft version of the plan was published in September last year, critics expressed concern that the governance blueprint lacked tangible targets or milestones by which to measure progress on the administrations stated priorities.

The final version, which was signed off by ministers last Thursday, does include a range of targets.

Among them is goal of building more than 5,000 new social homes by 2027.

Ministers also want to see an additional 70,000 hospital patients treated as part of efforts to reduce the regions spiralling waiting lists.

The document, called Our Plan: Doing What Matters Most, aims to increase renewable electricity capacity by 40% within the current Assembly mandate and progress a plan for speeding up the justice system.

Ministers have pledged to keep the public informed on progress by publishing annual reports.

Presenting the plan to the Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said: We will be open and transparent about the progress were making, and well also take every possible step to ensure this programme is delivering what we set out to do.

The Sinn Fein vice president, who jointly leads the Executive with DUP deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly, said ministers would now get on with the job of delivering.

She said while the four parties in the mandatory coalition do not agree on everything, she said they had attempted to prioritise the areas where there is agreement in the PFG.

We bring this programme for government to the house today as another step forward in our efforts to improve peoples lives, Ms ONeill told MLAs.

It is about making positive difference and making things better for people.

We will not be found wanting when it comes to doing everything we possibly can to deliver for people today, but also into the future.

The PFG sets out three key missions  people, planet and prosperity. These are linked to an underpinning cross-cutting commitment to peace.

The document also highlights nine policy areas, entitled Doing What Matters Most Today, that the coalition will prioritise in the remainder of the mandate.

These are: Grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy; Deliver more affordable, accessible, high-quality early learning and childcare; Cut health waiting times; End violence against women and girls; Better support children and young people with special educational needs; Provide more social, affordable and sustainable housing; Make communities safer; Protect Lough Neagh and the environment; and Reform and transform public services.

It has been published a little over a year after powersharing returned to Stormont after a two-year political impasse in Northern Ireland over post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Leader of the Assemblys official opposition, SDLP MLA Matthew OToole, branded the plan late, limp and listless.

He reflected on the time period since an executive last agreed a PFG.

The absence of a programme for government was both a symptom and a cause of dysfunctionality, he said.

So, in agreeing this PFG, the Executive has made progress on the shamefully low bar that was set.

However, Mr OToole said it was not enough to simply publish a document.

Despite the desire of this executive to be garlanded for simply existing, you do not get a passing grade for showing up to the exam hall, he said.

This document contains aspirations we share, but it is far short of the kind of clear, targeted plan that the people of Northern Ireland deserve after so many years of failure.

He added: This programme is better than nothing. Its a modest improvement on the draft. But its a missed opportunity. Its nowhere near good enough.

I say to the First and deputy First Minister, and indeed all ministers: Is this it?
All of us have our travel bucket list and some places sit on it for years. Every book you read, every documentary you watch, and every story you hear inspires you to visit that country someday. Japan was one such place for me. So, when I finally landed in Yokohama, a city that blends futuristic innovation with deep-rooted traditions, I knew I was in for an experience that would leave a lasting impact. While the neon-lit streets, efficient public transport, and the omnipresence of vending machines fascinated me, it was something far simpler that truly inspired me: Japans culture of solo dining.

I noticed one such diner while walking through the streets of Yokohama. And, while I had read about this in the past, just the focus with which people were eating was still fascinating. And, also odd at first. In many cultures, including India, meals are inherently social activities. We gather around the dining table with family, catch up with friends over lunch, and even extend business meetings over dinner. Eating is often accompanied by chatter, laughter, and more recently the glare of a smartphone screen.

But in Japan, I found an entirely different approach. Many restaurants, especially ramen shops and conveyor belt sushi spots, are designed for individual diners. Its not just acceptedits celebrated.

The entire experience is about mindfulness. It gives you an opportunity to focus on the taste, the texture, the aroma and in these moments there is no rush, no distractions and no endless scrolling through social media. Its just you and your meal. It made me realise how, in India, we treat meals as just another multitasking opportunity.

In India, its common to see families gathered around the television while eating. Even more concerning is the sight of young children glued to YouTube videos during mealtimes. I have seen parents promote this too. While I am no one to school them, it only causes further addiction among kids, making them dependent on screens.

What was once a moment for bonding or mindful consumption has now turned into an extension of our digital dependency. Ive lost count of the number of times Ive seen people scrolling through their phones at restaurants, barely engaging with their food, let alone their dining companions. Its a habit that seems harmless, but the implications are far-reaching.

While our addiction to screens during meals has reduced our attention span, it often leads to overeating because we fail to register how much weve consumed. As someone who also loves to cook and serve, these practices also take away the simple joy of serving the meal.

Weve become so accustomed to constant stimulation that even a basic activity like eating feels incomplete without some digital accompaniment.

This trip to Japan reminded me of the importance of disconnecting. Imagine what would happen if we adopted Japans solo dining philosophy, even in small ways. What if we took a break from our devices at mealtimes, whether eating alone or with family? What if we used that time to simply enjoy our food, observe our surroundings, or engage in meaningful conversations? What if we allowed ourselves a few pockets of digital silence every day, where we werent consuming content but simply existing in the moment?

This isnt about rejecting technology. Its about using it more intentionally. We live in an era where digital connectivity is inevitable, and often necessary, but we need to carve out spaces where we can unplug. It could start with something as simple as putting our phones away during meals, taking a walk without earbuds, or even sitting quietly with a cup of coffee without reaching for a screen.

What Japan taught me was that in the stillness of those quiet meals, there was a kind of freedom, a rare and precious clarity that reminded me of how little we actually need to feel present and fulfilled. And perhaps thats something worth embracing, no matter where in the world we are.
HP slash 2,000 jobs: offshoring 90% of China manufacturing for North America by 4Q25

HP is cutting up to 2,000 jobs and scaling back its dependence on Chinese manufacturing for the North American market. This decision follows mounting US tariffs and rising component costs as the company reshapes its supply chain to stay competitive.

Financial performance and market trends

HP reported US$13.5 billion in revenue for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, a 2.4% increase compared to the same period a year ago. According to Statista and Entrepreneur, its Personal Systems division, which includes PCs, generated US$9.2 billion, up 4.7%. While commercial PC sales rose 10%, consumer PC revenue dropped 7%, with unit shipments declining 11%.

HP's net profit dropped 9.16% compared to the same period a year ago to US$565 million, weighed down by higher component costs and US tariffs on Chinese imports, according to ICsmart. The company forecasts second-quarter adjusted earnings per share between US$0.75 and US$0.85, in line with analyst expectations.

Regional revenue distribution stood at 41% from the Americas, 35% from Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), and 24% from Asia-Pacific and Japan (APJ).

Supply chain shifts amid tariff pressures

HP is restructuring its supply chain to reduce exposure to US tariffs on Chinese imports. CEO Enrique Lores told Bloomberg that by October 2025, under 10% of HP's North American sales will be sourced from China.

China remains a key manufacturing hub for non-North American markets, but HP is expanding production in Thailand to mitigate geopolitical risks.

HP's move aligns with an industry-wide effort to shift production away from China. Nikkei Asia previously reported that HP targets manufacturing 70% of its laptops outside China within two to three years.

Workforce reduction and cost-cutting initiative

HP plans to cut 1,000 to 2,000 jobs by October 2025 as part of its "Future Now" restructuring initiative, which was launched in November 2022. The layoffs will affect multiple departments.

An SEC filing cited by Entrepreneur shows HP's original plan to cut 7,000 jobs has now expanded to 9,000, with projected savings of US$1.9 billion. The company expects to save US$300 million annually from the restructuring.

HP describes the layoffs as part of a strategic shift, reallocating resources to AI and customer experience investments. Lores told Bloomberg the company is also exploring US manufacturing, beyond assembly, to establish domestic supply chains.

Future outlook

Trade policies and geopolitical tensions are reshaping HP's supply chain strategy. In response to rising US tariffs and operating costs, the company is ramping up production outside China and optimizing operations.

According to ICsmart, HP's restructuring efforts are designed to strengthen its position in the global PC and printing market.

Article edited by Jerry Chen
Jabil, Aequs, and Tata reportedly export made-in-India Apple components to China and Vietnam

India reportedly begins exporting mechanical components for Apple products to Vietnam and China, potentially signaling an increasing development of India's manufacturing ecosystem thanks to Apple suppliers.

The Economic Times, citing unnamed sources, reported that several Indian suppliers, including Motherson Group, Jabil, Aequs, and Tata Electronics, are now producing mechanical components such as enclosures for Apple products like MacBooks, AirPods, Apple Watches, Apple Pencils, and iPhones before shipping to international assembly plants for final integration in China and Vietnam, a development underscoring Apple's efforts to diversify its supply chain.

For over 20 years, India has depended on imports, even after India became the second-largest mobile phone producer under Narendra Modi's Make-in-India initiative. This shift is expected to boost the growth and self-reliance of India's electronics sector by reducing this dependency.

Although an increasing number of manufacturers are producing electronic goods in India, a majority of intermediate goods and capital goods are still imported from China.

In the past year, Apple has expanded its supplier network in India by adding US-based Jabil, which produces AirPods components from its Pune factory, and Aequs in Hubbali, Karnataka, which manufactures MacBook components. The Motherson Group has also joined, producing iPhone enclosures. Jabil and Aequs have further enhanced the supply chain by adding components for the Apple Pencil and Apple Watch, respectively.

Apple is anticipated to release its updated list of top 200 suppliers, which is typically revised on an annual basis. This updated list may incorporate new information about changes and developments within its supply chain.

The latest Apple supplier list reveals that Jabil runs a manufacturing facility in Maharashtra dedicated to producing components for Apple products. In total, there are 14 suppliers, both international and Indian, involved in component production or assembly for Apple products within South Asia.

Article edited by Jack Wu
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SEATTLE  Seattle's Office of Economic Development has awarded 38 small businesses tenant improvement grants from the Tenant Improvement Program.

The selected businesses are located throughout the city, including in the Central District, downtown, North Seattle and University District. Each business will receive different support and funding based on need and readiness.





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A Dublin man who sexually abused two young girls has been jailed for eight years.

The victims of Peter Doyle (68) wish to retain their anonymity but are happy for him to be named.

The Central Criminal Court heard that Doyle abused the girls over 40 years ago while they were aged between six and nine years old.

In a victim impact statement, the first woman outlined that her childhood memories had been tainted by the sexual abuse. She said she had felt ashamed and that she no longer wanted to be alive so that it would all go away.

The second woman said she had been just six years old when her innocence was taken and not a day goes by when she does not feel the impact of the abuse. She said she felt dirty, ashamed and scared and no one had believed her when she tried to confide in others what was happening.

Doyle, aged 68, of Gleann Na hEorna, Springfield, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to indecent assault of the first girl on dates between 1988 and 1991. He was aged between 32 and 35 years old at that time.

He also pleaded guilty to four counts of indecent assault and one count of rape of the second child on dates between 1977 and 1980. He was then aged between 21 and 24 years old.

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Passing sentence this Monday, Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo said it was clear from the victim impact statements in this case that there was deep and abiding hurt as a result of the offending. He thanked the two women for coming forward and making statements.

Mr Justice Naidoo said the aggravating factors in the case included the age of the injured parties, the age disparity, the harm done and the breach of trust. He set a headline sentence of 15 years imprisonment.

The judge noted mitigating factors in the case included Doyles guilty plea, his lack of previous convictions, no further offending, good work history, an apology offered through counsel and a degree of remorse.

Mr Justice Naidoo imposed consecutive sentences totalling eight years imprisonment.

An investigating garda told Eileen OLeary SC, prosecuting, that the first woman came forward and made a statement to gardai in 2022. She disclosed that she believed a second girl may also have been abused. Garda approached the second woman and she also made a statement.

The court heard that both women had told adults in their lives what occurred many years before they went to gardai. One of the girls was told that the accused man was just experimenting.

Doyle was questioned by gardai and made no admission, denying all allegations.

Ms OLeary said it was the view of the Director of Public Prosecutions that this case fell into the more serious category of cases, indicting a headline sentence of between 10 and 15 years.

In her victim impact statement, the first women labelled Doyle a pathetic coward and a monster. She described the hugely damaging effect of the abuse on her life and mental health.

The second woman said she had felt the impact of the abuse throughout her life and it had an extremely adverse effect on her mental health. She said she had gone through her life hoping she was the only victim but her worst fears were realised when the first woman came forward.

Both women described how they had come forward hoping to protect other children.

James Dwyer SC, defending, said his client wished to offer an apology to the two women.

He asked the court to take into account his clients guilty plea which he submitted was of significant value as the women did not need to be re-traumatised by giving evidence before a jury.

Mr Dwyer said his client was now before the court as a man approaching his seventies, facing sentence for offences committed in his twenties and thirties.

Counsel said his client had a good work history, mainly as a shopfitter, and lived alone prior to going into custody. He said Doyle had expressed remorse and had no other convictions.
Dublin-based Samson Films, an independent production company has been collaborating with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) since 2018 and has provided invaluable work placements, masterclasses and script workshop sessions for students on the BA (Hons) in Film & Television Production. The collaboration arose during the filming of Wildfire, Cathy Brady's debut feature which shot in the Dundalk/Newry area and was released in 2020. Samson offered a range of Trainee opportunities to local students and arts workers in the North-East area during the production.

The production company partners closely with DkIT to offer ongoing support for students in the Film and Television Production programme. DkIT students gain from specialised skills training, collaborative script development, and feedback sessions for their final-year short films. Each group receives detailed script notes and guidance from a production company perspective. These sessions feature mock pitches and exercises for casting and crew selection.

Lecturers have praised the hands-on nature of this collaboration, which significantly enriches students' learning experiences. Additionally, students sometimes have the opportunity to gain practical on-set experience through traineeships and office internships.

Sarah McCann, Lecturer in the Department of Creative Arts, Media and Music at DkIT said:

Our collaboration with Samson Films Ltd has been ongoing since 2018 and has provided invaluable work placements, masterclasses and script workshop sessions for our students on the BA (Hons) in Film & Television Production in Dundalk Institute of Technology. Our annual Samson Films Best Short Film Award is also presented each year to the best short film made by 3rd years on the programme, as chosen by the company. Looking forward to continuing this fruitful collaboration for many years to come!

Peter Horan, Head of Development at Samson Films Ltd said: It has been a pleasure collaborating with the students of DkIT over the past number of years. By assessing their scripts and short films, we have continuously been impressed by the level of creative endeavour and ingenuity on display from this new generation of Irish filmmakers. We are excited to continue working with both current students and recent graduates as they start to forge careers in the Irish Film and TV industry.

Samson Films provides invaluable guidance to third year film and television students, who are paired with the company as part of a year-long Film Project module where they create short films to industry-standard of approximately ten minutes duration.

Pat Taaffe, a 3rd year film and television student and director said:

The ability to pitch for industry professionals was an incredible opportunity and experience for myself and the entire crew. Knowing that we were going to be pitching in front of experienced professionals provided great inspiration to us. We each ensured we had a full understanding of the project and what we could all bring to the table to make it the best it could possibly be. The feedback we received was also crucial in how we shaped our pre-production process and fundamentally changed our outlook and confidence in our ability to successfully pitch and deliver the project.

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Katie Hughes, a 3rd year film and television student and director said:

"It was such a positive experience to pitch and have feedback provided by Samson films for our project formerly known as 'Grin'.

Samson inspired us by highlighting the best elements of our script, and how to amplify these further. They also identified and offered practical solutions for particularly difficult scenes, such as shooting a nightclub scene as a student group! The boost in morale in our group after this session was phenomenal! Samson have a great understanding of what student filmmakers need to hear in order to achieve their goals. We were encouraged to push boundaries and defy expectations, which is how all great films are made.

The collaboration between DkIT and Samson Films was recently featured by Fis Eireann in a piece titled: Samson Films: Nurturing Skills & Talent on Productions.
Westgate Vision project has been granted planning approval by An Bord Pleanala.

Westgate Vision will "bring about a positive identity to the west end of Drogheda, to recover the townscape area, and to create a dynamic regeneration for the broader town centre," Louth County Council said.

The project will connect Drogheda town centre to the River Boyne, improve connections to the Old Abbey through surrounding streets and lanes and will include a sequence of public terraces on Georges Street that support commercial activity and reactivate the street frontages.

David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council said, The approval of planning for the Westgate Vision is a major step forward in our commitment to urban regeneration in County Louth. This project will reimagine and reinvigorate Droghedas historic core, providing enhanced public spaces, better connectivity, and a more vibrant environment for businesses, residents, and visitors. Louth County Council is dedicated to delivering a town centre that reflects the areas rich heritage while supporting future growth.

This phase of the Westgate Vision, up to planning consent, was funded as a Category B project by the URDF (Urban Regeneration Development Fund) with matched funding by Louth County Council.

Cllr Kevin Callan, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said: Drogheda has a unique history and an exciting future, and the Westgate Vision will play a crucial role in shaping the town for generations to come. This project will not only enhance the physical environment but create opportunities for businesses and the wider community. The support from An Bord Pleanala is a clear endorsement of the ambitious vision Louth County Council has for the town.

Turley Planning was appointed by Louth County Council to lead the integrated Urban Design Team for Westgate Phase I, collaborating with Arrow Architects to develop design proposals, an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR), and a Natura Impact Statement.

The approved designs focus on enhancing the public realm in four key areas:

Westgate Area:

The Westgate area is the entrance gateway from the west into Droghedas Heritage Quarter.

The design proposals will reconnect buildings onto the street front and create a strong entry into the Medieval Walled Town area.

The proposals include a sequence of public terraces on Georges Street that support commercial activity and reactivate the street frontages, with links connecting to the River Boyne, forming a starting point for a new experience of Droghedas medieval town.

Old Abbey Area:

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Improving connections to the Old Abbey through surrounding streets and lanes, establishing an event space for year-round use.

The design approach respects the historical context, clearly distinguishing between new and existing elements to showcase the Old Abbey's heritage.



Medieval Town Wall:

Connecting Westgate to the River Boyne via a curved walkway, providing a fresh perspective and identity to the historic town wall.

Boyne River Front:

Reconnecting Drogheda's town centre to the river Boyne, revitalising the riverfront, and creating further value to public spaces and the town centre.

Paul McMonagle, Associate Director at Turley Planning, said, "We are delighted to have supported Louth County Council in securing planning permission for these significant public realm regeneration works within the Westgate area of Drogheda."

Mr McMonagle added, "The approval represents a pivotal moment for this transformational project, which is part-funded under the Urban Regeneration Development Fund (URDF), a flagship initiative of Project Ireland 2040. Importantly, the Westgate 2040 project has people and places at its heart and will act as a catalyst to support positive regeneration, compact growth, and sustainable development of the area and the wider Drogheda Town Centre."

For more details on the Westgate Vision proposals, visit Louth County Council's consultation portal and An Bord Pleanala website.




A suspected 6.5 million drugs haul has been seized following a cross-border operation.

Cannabis, cocaine and ketamine are believed to have been discovered concealed within food packaging following the search of premises in the Mallusk area of Newtownabbey, Co Antrim, on Monday.

It came as detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland and Garda Siochana worked together as part of the Joint Agency Task Force.

A 28-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of supplying class A and class B controlled drugs.

Organised Crime Unit detectives, working in collaboration with the Garda National Drugs & Organised Crime Bureau, as part of the Joint Agency Task Force, seized suspected drugs with an estimated street value of 6.5 million. Read more here: https://t.co/lqI9it6RRM#OpDealbreaker pic.twitter.com/TPnVb2KWIs  Police Antrim and Newtownabbey (@PSNIANDistrict) March 3, 2025

Detective Inspector Conor Sweeney said he is delighted the drugs have been removed from circulation.

We believe the drugs on this seizure were intended to supply various markets across the UK, he said.

The Joint Agency Task Force was established with the aim of bringing a concerted and enhanced effort to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime.

All partners within the task force are totally committed to working together to reduce the misery caused by drug smuggling and to dismantle the organised groups profiting from this type of criminality.

It is not difficult to imagine the harm that would have been caused by this volume of drugs being dealt on street corners within our communities to vulnerable people, children and those with addictions issues.

Nor is it difficult to imagine the mayhem that the organised criminals behind this would have wreaked with the millions of pounds of profit they potentially stood to make.

I am delighted the drugs have been removed from circulation and that this income stream has been denied to the criminal network.

However he added: We recognise there is still much work to be done to tackle such serious and organised criminality.

We rely on the help of the community to do so and would appeal to anyone with information or concerns to contact us on 101.
Tributes have poured in for Robert (Bob) Byrne from Coolfore, Monasterboice, Co. Louth and formerly of Coolock, Co. Dublin.

Bob passed away on 1st March 2025, peacefully at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

He was the beloved Dad to Maria, Sandra, Liz, Michelle, Paula and Robbie and will be sadly missed by his son and daughters, sons-in-law Niall and Liam, 12 grand-children, 10 great-grandchildren, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Funeral Arrangements:

Reposing at Townleys Funeral Home, Crosslanes, Drogheda A92 XN75 on Tuesday from 5pm until 7pm.

Cremation will take place on Wednesday at 1pm in Dardistown Crematorium, Dublin K67 HP26 and can be viewed live at https://www.dctrust.ie/location/dardistown/dardistown-chapel-webstreaming.html.

Heartfelt messages have been left on RIP.ie, from those who knew and fondly remembered Bob, with one mourner writing,

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"Our sincere condolences to all the Byrne's and extended family at this sad time. So sorry to hear this sad news.We have very fond memories of Bob over the years, great charactor with a great sense of humour. RIP Bob you will be sorely missed."

Another message said, "Our deepest sympathies to all of the Byrne family. Bob will be greatly missed, a neighbour of near 30 years, a gentleman with a heart of gold, We have had many great laughs over the years and we cherish the many memories that both yourself and your dear wife Chrissie have given us. A family that made me very much part of theirs. You will be truly missed. RIP Bob."

"Our sincere condolences to the family of Robert (Bob). We got to know Bob while he was in hospital. A lovely man for the very short time knew him on the 6th floor. May he rest in peace," another message said.
Facing a problem at work, or in any part of your life, that you cant quite get your head around?

Then perhaps its time to get out your kids Lego bricks and take a look at things from a different perspective.

Thats the advice from UCCs Dr Briony Supple, who is trained in a methodology called LEGO Serious Play (LSP), which uses the world-famous bricks to encourage creative thinking, collaborative problem-solving, and communication.

Now, as part of LEO Cork Citys Local Enterprise Week, the Melbourne native and senior lecturer in Design Thinking at the School of Education in UCC is hosting a free workshop, organised by the Local Enterprise Office, which will help adults learn from Lego  one brick at a time.

Dr Supple said the upcoming workshop can help people reflect on essential entrepreneurial skills.

LSP was developed by the Lego group out of a dissatisfaction with the outcome of strategic meetings, so they used their own bricks as a tool to enable its people to come up with innovative solutions.

Dr Supple first came across LSP in 2018.

I was at a conference in Sweden and I saw there was a teaching and learning session on LSP which I had never even heard of before that, she recalled.

There were people there from different countries and different backgrounds, but through Lego we were able to identify common challenges we all faced, and come up with solutions.

We were able to go very deep, very quickly into complex topics  and in a really fun way!

It was fascinating  I was hooked instantly!

Some attendees have never played with Lego before, said Dr Supple.

She became an LSP facilitator in 2021, and then became a facilitator trainer in 2023.

I use it within the university in my teaching, but I also work across many different industries, said Dr Supple.

Its all about asking ourselves how we can do things differently and getting all the voices in the room participating, talking constructively and collaboratively.

The format of a workshop is based on a series of challenges set as questions, a visual response to these through the building with Lego, and then the sharing of stories.

Sometimes, at meetings its the loudest voice that tends to get heard. But Ive found that people find a safety blanket in what theyve built and which they can speak about.

Its a very powerful and inclusive thing.

Some attendees have never played with Lego before, said Dr Supple.

And some say theyre no good at it.

One of the principles in the workshop is dont have a meeting with yourself, but to just get building, - as adults we tend to overthink things so much!

The power is in the metaphor and storytelling: a single brick, for example, can represent a whole host of concepts.

Its not really about the build itself but the ownership of the story by the participants.

Those attending workshops will always leave with a key action, or something tangible; this is the serious part of LSP.

People are very open to the idea, and the very few Ive encountered who started out being sceptical have left admitting theyd had more constructive conversation over Lego, than before.

LSP, Dr Supple highlighted, encourages divergent thinking, experimentation, and also bold creativity.

It removes traditional hierarchies, creating a space where all ideas have equal weight.

This approach is especially beneficial for fostering innovation in multidisciplinary teams or addressing complex systems.

Its not just the novelty of using Lego that gets the brain firing on all cylinders either, theres actual science behind LSP.

Using something tactile like Lego has been shown to trigger a different part of our brain, which helps us get different perspectives, said Dr Supple.

At this free, dynamic workshop, organised by LEO Cork City, taking place this Wednesday, attendees will engage in the LSP method as a way to reflect on essential entrepreneurial skills such as creativity, adaptability and problem-solving.

Its for anyone who wants to enhance their problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability skills, said Dr Supple, including entrepreneurs, start-up founders, owners of small businesses, and aspiring innovators.

The workshop is also highly beneficial for professionals involved in strategy development, leadership, and team collaboration.

Whether you are launching a new venture,looking to scale your business, seeking fresh approaches to innovation, are interested in aspects of mindset development, or you are just plain curious about Lego Serious Play, the interactive workshop as part of Local Enterprise Week will provide valuable insights and practical takeaways, said Dr Supple.

Play is not just for children; its vital for adult growth, connection and resilience.

By embracing the philosophy of thinking with your hands, LSP helps untap creative potential, fuelling breakthroughs in both business and personal endeavours, she said.

 Local Enterprise Week is for anyone involved in small businesses (at all stages of development), and also for anyone considering self-employment.

The free workshop takes place on Wednesday, March 5 in 1 Horgans Quay from 12.30 to 2pm. Places are limited, advance registration necessary.

See https://www.localenterprise.ie/corkcity
A Cork TD has described the library service as one of the jewels in the crown of Irelands public service.

Jerry Buttimer, Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central and minister of state, was speaking at an event in Corks City Library marking Ireland Reads, a month-long campaign to get the country reading.

Mr Buttimer said that Cork is fortunate to have a library service that offers a high quality and inclusive welcome to all.

Important

The Ireland Reads initiative is very important to me, as minister of state with responsibility for libraries, because it is vital that we encourage people to use our libraries and cultivate in people a love of books and a love of reading, in young people especially, and to make our libraries as accessible as possible to everyone, he said.

The joy of reading a book is something that can never be replaced by modern technology, and should never be replaced.

Mr Buttimer said it was an honour to participate in the City Librarys Ireland Reads event and described libraries as one of the jewels in the crown of our public service.

The depth of the work that our libraries in Cork do, in different languages, across different age groups, is so impressive, and the investment in libraries in Cork is just phenomenal, and its something we will continue to prioritise, he said.

Easing tension

Valerie OSullivan, Cork City Council chief executive, said the importance of reading could not be overestimated.

Taking time to relax and do things you enjoy is important and reading is good for you. It relaxes your body by lowering your heart rate and easing the tension in your muscles.

"Studies have even shown that reading boosts your mental health by reducing stress by up to 68%, she said.

Ireland Reads is an initiative to celebrate the joy of reading. It is funded by Healthy Ireland and supported by public libraries and many organisations that promote reading, literacy and the arts.
Cork should be split in to four or five areas for weather warnings, says Cathal Nolan, founder of Irelands Weather Channel, who won a national award as a University College Cork researcher.

Mr Nolan told The Echo: My entry point in to weather was through the eyes and world of my father. He was a private pilot, who would fly small aircraft at our local club in Offaly, and, as a consequence, the weather was something I was immersed in from an early age.

One of my earliest memories is sitting on the couch beside him; we never missed a weather forecast.

I was very fascinated by weather, on account of this, and it was a passion that developed further. Going on holidays, Id look forward to seeing different types of weather we wouldnt see in Ireland.

Cathal was interested in geography and history in school, and in where they intersected, in past severe weather events. After studying geography and history at University College Dublin, he completed a masters in the science and impacts of climate, then spent a year and a half as a researcher in UCCs geography department.

While there, he won the Emerging Scholar Award at the Venice International Climate Change Conference in 2020.

After winning the Emerging Scholar Award, covid happened and it kind of curtailed things. I finished up in UCC and began a career with an international forecasting company, and spent a couple of years forecasting in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Irelands Weather Channel

Throughout this time, he had been working on Irelands Weather Channel, which he had set up in 2013, in parallel to his education and career.

We began as Offalys Weather Channel, then changed to Midlands Weather Channel. Then we started doing national coverage and became Irelands Weather Channel.

Along the way, there were a few particularly severe weather events, which helped in terms of the reach we had - Hurricane Ophelia, which had a significant impact on Cork, and the now infamous Beast from the East.

We could see the conditions developing and were one of the first to openly say what conditions people could expect and what they would bring, which helped get our name out there.

Cathal appeared on several radio channels, including local Cork stations and national ones, developing a strong reputation for accurately predicting the weather.

Localised forecasts

Cathal said: We pride ourselves in our ability to communicate with our followers through a mobile number service on a very localised level.

When we think of weather forecasts, news organisations were always responsible for the delivery of it, but the advent of social media and apps has changed that.

Were the first organisation to offer very personalised forecasts from qualified meteorologists, and that sets us apart from the rest a little.

His father values the service: He was so passionate about it, and to see how far I have taken that passion is very satisfying for him, Cathal said.

He has his own weather forecast station at our family home in Offaly, and still goes out every evening at midnight to record the rainfall.

Cathal Nolan, weather forecaster.

The weather channels more localised projections also address something of a gap in Irish forecasting that has become more apparent in recent years.

In October, 2023, Storm Babet caused widespread damage in East Cork. However, the entire county was under a status-orange warning.

Many people in towns like Midleton felt that a red warning, rather than the orange that was issued, would have allowed them to be more prepared and avoid some of the damage their homes and businesses incurred.

Cathal said: One of the difficulties and challenges in weather forecasting is that conditions change so much from village to village and town to town, in terms of severity.

Weve advocated as far back as 2013 for changes to the current system. A county-by-county system is usually fine in the smaller counties, like Louth and Longford, but a county as big and as geographically diverse as Cork can see significant differences.

A storm worthy of a red warning in one part of the county could only be a yellow in another, and that was a big criticism we heard around Storm Babet.

The Midleton area was exposed to conditions worthy of a status-red warning, but is some places the conditions were only yellow warning level, and there are economic losses associated with a red warning, which would have shut the whole county down.

We would advocate for a change in that system, where somewhere the size of Cork should have four or five different areas to represent the disparity there can be.

As well as the size, the amount of coastline in Cork makes a difference, he said, explaining: Wind speeds are always that bit more extreme in coastal areas.

Weve seen, repeatedly, over the years that West Cork would see the strongest winds. It can be 120km/h in Schull or Bantry compared to 70km/h in somewhere like Mitchelstown, just inside the county border.

Extreme weather

Cathal also explained why it seems extreme weather events are happening increasingly often in Cork.

Cork is close to the sea, so its at the whim of the Atlantic, and the ocean temperature in the Atlantic has increased overall, which means the cloud systems carry more precipitation.

This has led to a significant increase in the frequency of flooding, especially flash flooding, where there are heavy, intense downpours that cause sudden flooding.

Typically, Cork would have seen more slow rise flooding with the River Lee and other rivers having a major impact.

He continued: Were not seeing an increase in the number of storms, but the storms we do see are a little more powerful. Infrastructurally, Ireland is caught at a crossroad. Were focused on limiting our emissions, which is important, but we also need to focus on mitigating against the likely impacts.

Because of the frequency of tidal flooding, Cork city, in particular, is ground zero. We have to look at our response towards what is a changing climate.

Business development

The weather channel bases its forecast on various models, including European, UK, American and Irish ones, which they check four times a day for an operational forecast.

We get an overarching view of the pressure, rainfall, wind speed, sunshine hours, temperature, solar radiation  they would have the biggest impact on the conditions on the ground, Cathal said.

Beyond that, what we try to do, in times of severe weather, particularly, is look back. Ive always had a great love of history and by looking back at previous weather over the years, we can get an understanding of whats likely to happen in certain situations at a very local level.

The business got good news recently, with a private investor set to come on board.

Were thankful to confirm a significant investment, so we can set up a professional weather studio and produce graphics to the same extent you would see from other, larger weather channels.

Were going to branch out and begin offering private forecasting services for several sectors, like construction and farming, where meteorology is so important, for individual businesses and event forecasts for things like weddings, holidays, events, concerts, film shoots.

We also want to bring the weather to people directly and understand it a bit more ourselves by documenting and recording live broadcasts on site of severe weather.

So, well be coming to a town near you, though if you see us around your town, its generally going to be bad news weather-wise.

Irelands Weather Channel is planning to launch its new services from June, and, after three months, people will have the option of paying a small subscription fee for things like personal updates.

The services currently in existence will improve and remain free of charge and open to the public, Cathal said.
A garda car was rammed with a stolen car outside a restaurant and it then swung around and drove at the patrol car again, literally driving over the bonnet putting it out of action on the occasion.

In a spree of offences, two men also carried out a robbery of a shop at Belgooley, County Cork  an offence that was described as terrifying.

The judge added that it must have been terrifying for staff and customers at the shop to see two masked raiders arriving  one of them carrying a knife.

Judge Helen Boyle said while gardai present were shook up by the incident outside the Raj restaurant at Kerrypike, it was fortunate that none of them was injured.

These were among the criminal incidents to which two men pleaded guilty as they were jailed by Judge Helen Boyle for a total of five years with the last six months suspended at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

While the charges against each man were not identical in respect of the various incidents the judge did not differentiate between them in terms of the parts they played in their rampage.

Stephen Coughlan, aged 26, of 67 Maulbaun, Passage West, and Brian Keane, aged 33, of no fixed address pleaded guilty to all the charges against them at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

Barristers Mahon Corkery and Paula McCarthy submitted that the two men had difficult circumstances, addiction problems but had pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigation.

'FEAR AND ALARM'

Judge Boyle said of the shop robbery, The fear and alarm to the persons in the shop must have been serious as two men arrived with their faces covered, one of them armed with a knife. Undoubtedly it was a terrifying experience and it took place as part of a crime spree.

As for the ramming of the garda car the judge said of this endangerment: It showed a complete disregard for life and limb.

To be engaged in conduct you were in it is fortunate you did not kill or seriously injure someone. You could have been here on a manslaughter charge.

Detective Garda Michelle OLeary described how some of the stolen cars were later found burnt out.

A Toyota Hilux was stolen that day at Kilnaglory, Ballincollig, and later set on fire at Upper Fairhill.

Other charges related to March 1 2024 at The Raj Indian restaurant car park at Kerrypike, the most serious of which was one of endangerment by causing a substantial risk of death or serious injury to another person. Garda Brian White was exiting the vehicle attempting to carry out his duty, when there was a ramming causing him to take evasive action, and forcing the car sideways and driving over the front wing of it to escape.

There were multiple other offences including theft of a car at Scartglen, Castleisland, County Kerry, burglary at Mannings supermarket, Glanmire, County Cork, stealing cars at Maryborough Hill, Douglas, Coolroe Meadows, Ballincollig, Laurel Hill, Monkstown, The Finisk, Rivervalley, Mallow, The Funschion, Rivervalley, Mallow, Monee, Mourneabbey, Mallow, Castlewood, Little Island, and stealing a trailer/horsebox at Park Farm, Passage West.

There were five burglaries at Aghadoe, Killarney, County Kerry, on February 4, 2024. In Kanturk they rammed side door of a food store before burgling the premises.

Another car was stolen at Sluggera Cross, Whitechurch, on March 3 2024 and driven at Thomas Davis Street in another confrontation with gardaiand there was criminal damage to three garda cars and a parked car belonging to a motorist. The stolen car contained stolen property at that location including 1,900 worth of cigarettes and tobacco, on March 3.

Judge Boyle said that across the various incidents in this crime spree they showed blatant disregard for members of the public and members of An Garda Siochana.

Coughlan wrote a letter of apology saying he knew that what he did was wrong, he hoped everyone affected was OK and he was really sorry. Keane also apologised.

Coughlan had 250 previous convictions including 46 for stealing cars. Judge Boyle noted from a background report that he was addicted to stealing cars.

Keane had 42 previous, including three for robbery and a significant previous conviction for a serious assault in Kerry, for which he was given a sentence of10 years.
A number of water samples gathered by Uisce Eireann in January following concerns raised by Cork residents, contained more than the recommended level of manganese.

In a response to a query from The Echo, Uisce Eireann confirmed five of 33 samples were above the 50ug/l drinking water regulations parametric value for manganese.

The company undertakes enhanced sampling and testing across the city as part of the work of its dedicated Water Quality Taskforce for Cork city, it said. A total of 33 samples were taken in the month of January, consisting of regulatory sampling [check samples] and non-regulatory sampling [which are investigative or in response to a specific localised issue].

Where a non-compliant result was returned  which is a finding of levels above the drinking water regulations parametric value  Uisce Eireann will investigate whether works or bursts in an area may have given rise to the dislodgement of sediment on a short-term basis or whether reactive flushing may resolve an issue. Following investigations and/or remedial works in the area, follow-up samples are undertaken. All regulatory samples for January were fully in compliance with the drinking water regulations, it said.

Of the 21 non-regulatory/investigative samples taken, all were within the drinking water regulations parametric value for iron, and five were above the 50ug/l drinking water regulations parametric value for manganese.

Follow-up testing or investigative works are under way with regard to all areas identified as above 50ug/l for manganese. Its sampling team have typically been calling to peoples homes and liaising with customers directly in relation to test results associated with their properties, it said.

We have communicated directly with customers in relation to all five exceedances where the result was above the drinking water regulations parametric value.
A Cork woman has shared her experience of cancer as part of an effort to raise awareness of the disease in advance of this years Daffodil Day which takes place at the end of the month on Friday, March 28.

Megan Dalton Rafferty, who hails from Togher, is calling on her local community to go all in against cancer for Daffodil Day which is organised by the Irish Cancer Society.

Megan was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 27 in November 2021. She went through treatment but in December 2022, a lumber puncture found cancer cells present in her spinal fluid. Megan began immunotherapy and had a bone marrow transplant, which was successful.

Megan is now doing well and wants to encourage her community to support this years Daffodil Day.

I know some people dont like to share their cancer stories or let it become their whole world, said Megan. Many people just want to go back to normal, but I do think its helpful to raise awareness of your experience.

It might encourage someone to get something checked out by their doctor. Your health is just so important.

Every euro raised on Daffodil Day is crucial and makes a real lasting difference, fueling life changing cancer research and vital support services.

I would encourage everyone to please get out there and donate on Daffodil Day, March 28, and show your support for those affected by cancer in your local community.

Funds raised by the Irish Cancer Society during last years Daffodil Day provided more than 3,100 free lifts to bring Cork based cancer patients for treatment, at least 2,190 free counselling services to people living in Cork and 460 nights of free night nursing care to allow cancer patients to die at home surrounded by loved ones.

The cancer nurses funded by the societys Daffodil Day had almost 3,890 conversations with people from Cork on the support line and at their Daffodil Centres.

Irish Cancer Society chief executive Averil Power said that one in two of us will hear the words youve got cancer in our lifetimes.

There isnt a family in Ireland that hasnt felt the impact of a cancer diagnosis, said Ms Power.

Right now, a child is hearing the words Its cancer. A parent is holding on to hope for a treatment that hasnt been discovered yet. And a researcher has an idea that could turn that hope into reality.

Your support on Daffodil Day fuels life changing cancer research and vital free services and supports.

We really need this years Daffodil Day to be the biggest yet to ensure we can be there for those who need us most in 2025. And we cannot do this without you.

The society has also issued information about where donations go  30 can help provide transfer a patient to and from their chemo therapy treatment while 50 can support the provision of vital clinical treatment for an Irish Cancer Society night nurse.
Olivia Kelleher

The DPP has appealed for leniency a four year sentence which a 22 year old student received for punching, kicking and stamping another man 250 times in a twenty minute attack in Cork.

The Court of Appeal sitting in Cork on Monday heard that Darragh McLoughlin of Richmond Hill, Cork pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm to the other man at Paul Street in Cork on October 18th, 2022.

In a sentencing hearing in Cork Circuit Criminal Court in May of last year Judge Jonathan Dunphy said it was nothing short of miraculous the victim had not suffered life-threatening injuries.

Judge Dunphy sentenced McLoughlin to 6 and a half years with two and a half years suspended.

CCTV

At the sentencing hearing the court was shown a CCTV recording of the assault in which McLoughlin confronted the injured party on Paul Street in Cork.

He wrestled him to the ground before beginning a sustained assault on him. The court heard there had been some bad blood between the men.

Detective Garda Joe Crowley said gardai had counted 250 separate blows  either punches, kicks or stamps  by McLoughlin on the injured party.

Judge Dunphy noted at the sentencing hearing that many people in court looked away when the CCTV footage of the assault was played. He said that McLoughlin himself could not bring himself to watch it.

McLoughlin had used the victims own phone to record a 77-second section of the assault. The phone also had audio on the attack in which he could be heard ordering the injured party to stop protecting himself.

He instructs him to put his hands down so he can kick him in the skull unprotected. I counted 14 kicks to the head in that, said Judge Dunphy, adding the victim sustained 50 kicks to the face.

The victim suffered multiple fractures of the right eye socket and fractures of nasal bones, and was left with double vision and what was described as an ongoing deformity as a result of the attack.

Attack

Today at the Court of Appeal the DPP appealed the sentenced handed down to Mr McLoughlin on the basis of undue leniency.

Imelda Kelly, Senior Counsel said that the DPP believed the sentence imposed was too low even when mitigating factors such as the guilty plea were taken in to consideration.

Ms Kelly said that the attack was ferocious, persistent and prolonged and comprised of punches, kicks and stamps and over 250 blows.

She said that other aggravating factors included the dragging of the victim on the ground, telling the man to remove the arm from his face when it was his only protection and the use of demeaning language.

Dean Kelly, SC, said thats his client Mr McLoughlin felt abject shame for what had occurred and described his own behaviour as animalistic, shameful and appealing". He said that the suspended two and a half years in the case would be activated in full if McLoughlin became involved in anything resembling drunken behaviour after his release from prison.

The three judges Ms Justice Tara Burns, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Mr Justice Michael MacGrath reserved their decision which they will deliver in the Court of Criminal Appeal in Dublin. The date for the appeal decision has yet to be set.
Name: Sarah McNulty

Age: 33

Lives: Cork city centre

Job title: Associate Solicitor

Education background:I completed my primary and secondary school education through Irish and then went on to study law at University College Cork for three years, graduating with an honours Bachelor of Law degree. After that, I began the study for the Law Society of Ireland Entrance Exams, known as Fe1 Exams. Once I passed all eight, and having secured an apprenticeship, I undertook the Professional Practice Course to train to become a solicitor.

Hobbies: I love hot pilates, swimming, and walking my dog, Henry, in the woods or on a beach!

Describe your job in five words: A source of immense satisfaction, sometimes challenging, but always rewarding.

Describe yourself in five words: Determined, optimistic, loyal, diligent, impatient.

Personality needed for this kind of work? You need to have backbone. The nature of litigation means you are challenged every single day and naturally you have opponents with a conflicting view trying to trump yours. You cant lose sight of your principles or values. Courtesy and respect are important traits. Two pieces of advice I have received are, firstly, its good to be able to roll with the punches and not get bogged down on any one matter, and secondly, when you lose, say little, and when you win, say less!

How long are you doing this job? I qualified in 2020 but worked in the firm for five years before that.

How did you get this job?

My interest in pursuing a career in law began from a very young age. I suppose we are often drawn to what we know. My dad worked as a solicitor for many years and I remember going into his office as a child, fascinated by the surroundings and environment. I can be strong-willed and enjoyed English in school, and debating. I loved school - I went to Colaiste an Phiarsaigh in Glanmire, which is a great schoolwith brilliant teachers.

At 16, I did my work experience in Cantillons Solicitors. After the two weeks, I decided thats where I am going to work and that was my mind made up. When I filled out the CAO form, I put down nine law courses! I actually nearly put Trinity College Dublin as number one - but only because my older sister was studying law there, and I wanted to get enough points for that course, but turn them down for UCC!

The 10th course I chose was the iconic Arts in UCC - which would have been a great alternative while I figured it all out. My younger sister used that course as a springboard to primary school teaching and, conversely, colleagues have used it as a basis for legal education. I got into the UCC BCL course.

I enjoyed college but found it more isolating than school at times. Its only these days whenever Im on the university grounds that I appreciate how special it is. I had part-time summer jobs in hospitality and worked in retail for a number of years during and after college, which were great opportunities to build confidence and develop people skills, and of course resilience!

Speaking of resilience, the Fe1 entrance exams were my biggest test in that department. They are a set of entrance exams but in reality, its like the Leaving Cert for lawyers. The exams are notoriously difficult to pass and I found that process very challenging, draining, and repetitive. I was dying to get out of the traps, and failing one exam meant a false start for me - more than once! It was my first time failing an exam and it was very disheartening.

I briefly considered abandoning ship, particularly when peers seemed to be moving up the ladder faster, for something more exciting than exams, like travelling or, actually, journalism! My mum talked me out of it and encouraged me to persevere - which I am very grateful formost days! Deep down, I knew I wanted to see it through and a big factor there was working in a legal environment throughout, and a trailblazing one at that, which kept the end goal in sight.

At that time, I was working with Karen Kearney in the medical negligence department of the firm and that was really exciting work to be involved in, assisting in preparing for huge cases and lengthy trials in the Four Courts was great exposure for a pre-trainee.

At the same time, I distracted myself with other aspects of life and I loved socialising with my friends after work every Friday without fail, nearly always starting from Electric on the Mall  we ignored casual Friday so we could hit the town in our best office outfits, like in Suits, even though we had been nowhere near a courtroom!

I did pass the last exam and took a window of opportunity to backpack around South America for a few months, which broadened my perspective further. I then began solicitor training at Blackhall Place, which brought me to Dublin for six months. I had a blast up there and made the most of it, but the stint solidified my preference for life in Cork.

The training course was excellent and so enjoyable - covering all aspects of legal profession - in one day, you might go from a lecture on probate legislation, to a mock court making legal submissions, to a workshop with actors posing as unreasonable clients, to a tutorial with actual practising solicitors.

During my time in Blackhall Place, one of the most memorable things was the Street Law programme, a volunteer programme which saw a gang of us teach Transition Year students in DEIS schools about legal concepts in interesting ways, which graduated to visiting Irish prisons to teach the same course.

After the six months, I returned to the firm to the general litigation department and worked with Jody Cantillon, who brought everything back to basics and brought me along to sit in to every consultation, inspection, and court appearance, from whom I learned a lot!

I really enjoyed the faster pace of general litigation and the interesting issues which crop up and how everything can turn on a dime.

I was delighted to be offered a job as a solicitor with Cantillons after my training contract ended and that was a rewarding milestone for me personally.

Nearly five years later, which feels like they passed in a flash, I remain with the same firm where I began my training, and am continuing to hone my skill. Some days I feel as though I have a lot to learn yet and a lot of honing to do, and other days I have the wind in my sails!

Do you need particular qualifications or experience? A legal qualification is a good place to start, be it a diploma or a degree, but believe it or not, you dont need to have studied law at third level to become a lawyer. In fact, you dont need any degree to be a solicitor, but everyone needs to pass the same eight fe1 exams.

Work experience in a solicitors firm or legal setting is so beneficial, especially to find out what area of law you would like to practice - which has a huge bearing on the type of legal career you will have.

You will need to secure a training contract (previously known as an apprenticeship) with a solicitor, who will undertake to oversee your in-office training (previously known as a master) so work experience is a great way to get your foot in the door somewhere.

How many hours do you work a week? 45-55

Is your industry male or female dominated? In fact, it is now a female-dominated industry in Ireland, which is a great achievement given the first female admitted to the role of solicitor was just 101 years ago, and for nearly 100 years before that, only men were permitted to practice. Women have come a long way in such a short space of time, unsurprisingly!

Does this affect you in any particular way? Its very motivating really. Im lucky enough to not only work in a female-dominant industry but a female-dominant firm. We have 40+ great women in Cantillons, and three men.

Over the past 10 years, I have been influenced by female colleagues who I consider to be tough but fair, strong-minded but pragmatic, and in particular who are successful but care about doing the right thing and going the extra mile on each occasion to achieve the very best result. I think they are qualities often found in women generally and that the profession is all the better for that contribution.

Is your job stressful? How?

It is a stressful job, or rather it can be at times.Working in legal practice in general, can be stressful so it is crucial to put in place outlets that allow you to detach from the job, whether its to blow off steam, or boost endorphins, or just get something off your chest!

I am on the Law Society Younger Members committee which advocates for solicitors with 0-7PQE (i.e. newly qualified solicitors to those in practice for seven years) and one of the central topics is the stresses of the job, and the impact that can have on mental health. Its something that is afforded more consideration than before, and this is reflected by the Law Society offering free or subsidised counselling to solicitors through their membership.

Do you work with others or on your own? I work with a team of 40+, and our house is split largely down the middle, between general litigation and medical negligence. I am in the general litigation department, and we would often put our heads together and toss a problem around if you got stuck, but day in, day out, I work with my two legal secretaries, Beverley Morris and Sorcha Hickey, who assist me with all my files.

Ernest Cantillon, Managing Partner of the firm and my former master, oversees everything and is a great mentor - whose door is always open when in need of a steer!

When do you plan to retire or give up working? Im just getting started!

Best bits: Achieving the right result after a tough slough!

Worst bits: Thinking about cases before youve even woken up!

Advice to those who want your job? Start from the bottom, leave any notions at the door, and be ready to put your shoulder to the wheel. In the beginning, I was delighted to pick up lunches or shred documents, if it meant I was in the right place. The key is to become indispensable and be a team player! Always listen to advice on offer to you, you can decide what you want to do later, but listen first.

Biggest supporter: My husband, Killian, is a great champion, friend and influence. His outlook and strategy on things give me a fresh perspective for my own work, which has led to epiphanies.
Founded in 2005 as an Ohio-based environmental newspaper, EcoWatch is a digital platform dedicated to publishing quality, science-based content on environmental issues, causes, and solutions.

A senior hurricane specialist at the National Hurricane Center works on tracking Hurricane Beryl, the first hurricane of the 2024 season, at the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida on July 1, 2024. Joe Raedle / Getty Images

The Trump administration fired roughly 800 employees of the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration (NOAA) on Thursday, with more layoffs possible.

An email from the U.S. Department of Commerce Thursday afternoon informed employees that they would lose their jobs the same day, reported The Guardian.

The majority of probationary employees in my office have been with the agency for 10+ years and just got new positions, said a worker who was still employed and spoke to The Guardian under condition of anonymity. If we lose them, were losing not just the world-class work they do day to day but also decades of expertise and institutional knowledge.

Many recently terminated employees of NOAA and other United States government agencies had years of tenure, but were on probationary status due to having worked as contractors before recently becoming federal employees, The Washington Post reported.

In many cases, fired employees had years of tenure working with the agencies, but they were on probationary status because they had been working as contractors and had only recently become federal employees.

Andrew Hazelton, a physical scientist with the National Weather Service (NWS), is a veteran of NOAA Hurricane Hunters missions, during which he flew through dangerous storms to collect data for improved forecasting.

Unfortunately I can confirm the rumors going around today since I received the email, Hazelton wrote on X. I dont want to make any comments other than I am exploring legal options in a couple of avenues.

Most NOAA divisions, which employ specialists in weather, biodiversity, climate, oceans and other research and monitoring fields, were affected, reported CNN.

Probationary employees who had in most cases been on the job a year or less were fired, a NWS employee told CNN. The weather service employs from 350 to 375 people with that status, though it wasnt clear how many of them had been impacted. The source had heard some exemptions were given to crucial positions, like those involved with forecasting life-threatening disasters such as severe thunderstorms and hurricanes.

The NOAA termination letters said, The Agency finds you are not fit for continued employment because your ability, knowledge and/or skills do not fit the Agencys current needs.

An anonymous NOAA employee said Americans who rely on the climate data, forecasting and sustainably monitored fisheries of the agency would suffer, in addition to the laid-off workers, The Guardian reported.

Words cant describe the impact this will have, both on us at NOAA and on the country, the employee said. Its just wrong all around.

The mission of NWS is to protect lives and property, but the agency has long been understaffed, reported CNN.

As the accelerating climate crisis causes more frequent extreme weather, critics of the Trump administrations plan to pare down the agency have said layoff would make it harder for the country to accurately forecast costly and often deadly events like tornadoes and hurricanes.

Former NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad said the cuts were at best misguided and ill-informed, The Guardian reported.

At worst, Spinrad said, they would be dangerously risky to the lives and property of Americans all around the country.

Craig McLean, former NOAA research director and an employee of the agency for four decades, called the terminations callous, insulting, vengeful and offensive.

The nation will be compromised in safety, science and international standing, McLean said. This is not my America.
China committed to open sci-tech cooperation for benefits of all

10:21, March 03, 2025 By He Yin ( People's Daily

From the mountains of Indonesia, where the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway injects fresh momentum into regional development, to the deserts of Egypt transformed into fertile farmlands through advanced drilling technologies, and Tanzania's "Small Bean and Big Nutrition" project boosting agricultural yieldsChina's cutting-edge innovations and technological prowess are driving sustainable growth worldwide.

A woman shakes hands with a humanoid robot at the 2024 Global AI Product and Application Expo in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu province, Dec. 10, 2024. (People's Daily Online/Zhang Feng)

As a new wave of scientific and industrial revolution surges, breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotechnology are reshaping the global landscape. Nations universally seek to harness technological innovation as an engine for economic vitality. Yet, amid rising "decoupling" rhetoric and "small yard, high fences," the risk of widening development gaps due to technological divides looms large. The choice between monopolizing breakthroughs or actively extending their benefits to all will profoundly shape the trajectory of global modernization.

China, a pivotal player in global innovation, champions open collaboration and shared prosperity. Strengthening independent innovation while spearheading global technological advancement, the nation rejects zero-sum dominance. Instead, it aligns technological progress with its modernization goals and the broader welfare of humanity.

The lunar feat of Chang'e-6the first-ever sample retrieval from the moon's far side, carrying international payloadsepitomizes this ethos: China's achievements belong to both the nation and the world.

Photo shows a 500 MW wind farm built by Power Construction Corporation of China in Egypt. (People's Daily/Shen Xiaoxiao)

Embracing AI's transformative potential, China advocates for open-source technologies and inclusive access, exemplified by its high-performance, freely accessible DeepSeek model. Such strides reflect a deliberate philosophy: integrating the ancient ethos of "harmonious coexistence" into modern innovation.

From co-developing satellites with other developing countries to opening the Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (FAST) for global research, China fosters collaborative ecosystems. Initiatives like the Belt and Road Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation Action Plan and the China-Africa digital technology cooperation center underscore its resolve to dismantle technological hegemony, cultivating an open, fair, just and non-discriminatory environment. By intertwining open cooperation with breakthroughs in productive forces, China charts a path where shared advancements empower sustainable developmenta testament to its role as an enabler of global modernization.

This commitment to both ambitious scientific breakthroughs and inclusive sharing of innovation inspires more nations to actively explore the vast frontiers of technology and enhances global access to cutting-edge advancements.

As China harnesses technological innovation to drive new quality productive forces, it remains steadfast in promoting progress through opening up and cooperation and advancing common development through shared innovation outcomes. In doing so, China is helping power global sustainable development and accelerate modernization worldwide.

A Lancang bullet train runs on the China-Laos Railway in Luang Prabang, Laos. (People's Daily/Sun Guangyong)

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
March 2, 2025: China is building a large amphibious fleet in an effort to threaten Taiwan with a convincing capability to seize this wayward Chinese province. The new ships include 41,000-ton Type 076 LHD amphibious assault ships. These are larger than the previous Type 075 LHDs. The 076 is a drone carrier, the first ever. The 076 is also an amphibious assault ship that carries 1,200 combat troops and several dozen trucks and combat vehicles. The troops are put ashore with two dozen helicopters while two aircushion vessels bring the vehicles ashore.

The first Chinese LDS were the Type 075. In early 2025 China put into service the fourth of eight 37,000-ton Type 075 LHDs that can use helicopters to get troops ashore. Construction on the first LHD began in 2011 and was in sea trials by August 2020. The first LHD entered service in 2021, the second and third in 2002. The forth is nearing completion.

The Chinese LHD is 237m long and 35m wide. Air defense consists of two 30mm CIWS Close in Weapons Systems and two HQ-10 SAM Surface to Air Missile launchers. There is a crew of 1,100 sailors and capacity for carrying up to 1,200 troops who are put ashore using about 20 transport helicopters and a few landing craft. There is a well dock in the rear for loading Type 726 air-cushioned landing craft as well as conventional landing craft. The vehicle deck carries an undetermined number of trucks, ZBD05 amphibious Infantry Fighting Vehicles and ZTD05 amphibious light tanks. Vehicles can also be driven on or off the LHDs via ramps, like a Roll On-Roll Off or RO-RO vehicle transport.

This ship is designed to carry 30 helicopters of various types. China does not have any heavy lift helicopters or tilt wing transports like those that operate off American amphibious ships. China also lacks VTOL/Vertical Take Off and Landing warplanes like the F-35B or the earlier Harrier. China is currently using the 13-ton Z-8 naval helicopter transport on amphibious ships. The Z-8 is based on the French Super Frelon. The Z-8 can carry 20 or more troops and also be armed with missiles, rockets and machine-guns. China has a growing number of helicopter gunships and these have been seen practicing operations from warships. China is also introducing a copy of the American 11-ton SH-60 naval helicopter.

The Type 75 is similar to the eight American 41,000-ton LHD helicopter carriers that are capable of carrying up to twenty F-35B fighters. The design of these American mini carriers was influenced by the earlier eight Wasp class LHDs. The last of these amphibious assault ships, the Makin Island LHD-8, entered service in 2009 and was followed by two more that had some drastic modifications that led them to be designated LHAs because they were a bit larger at 45,000 tons and did not have the internal dock for landing craft. The additional space was devoted to more fuel, weapons storage and aircraft maintenance. The LPDs tend to carry twelve 21-ton V-22s tilt-rotors aircraft, eight AH-1 helicopter gunships, ten F-35B Vertical Take Off and Land or VTOL stealth fighters, four 33-ton CH-53K, and 4 Navy CH-60 helicopters. In both cases, actual air combat elements, the term for the reinforced combat aircraft deployed on these vessels, may vary depending on the mission. The LHA-6 is being built with these new VTOL aircraft, tiltrotors, and helicopters in mind.

Meanwhile, China was scaling up. As of early 2021 they have six Type 071 class amphibious ships in service. The first one arrived for duty in 2007 and by the time the second one entered service in 2011 the Chinese apparently realized they would need more than the four they originally planned to build. Meanwhile, China is also expanding its marine infantry force from three to seven brigades, each with over 5,000 troops.

The 071s are Landing Ship Dock or LPD type vessels and were the largest ships in the Chinese Navy until the first aircraft carrier entered service in 2013. But while Chinese aircraft carriers are still a work in progress, work was quickly found for the LPDs right away. This makes Chinese neighbors uncomfortable.

These LPDs are 210m long, 25,000-ton amphibious ships with a flight deck for up to four helicopters and a flooded well in the rear for landing craft. It normally carries four hovercraft in the well and two smaller landing craft suspended on davits. The ship can carry up to 800 troops and up to 20 armored vehicles. Max speed is 46 kilometers an hour with cruising speed 33 kilometers an hour. At that speed, a Type 071 can stay at sea for up to 60 days. The 071 class ships are similar to the American 25,000-ton San Antonio class and the French 21,500-ton Mistral class. The 071s have the smallest crew at 120 compared to 180 in the Mistral and 396 for the San Antonio.

Type 071 armament consists of a 76mm gun, four 30mm anti-missile autocannon, and four 18 tube decoy/chaff dispensers for anti-missile work. Each 071 is believed to cost about $300 million, less than half what a San Antonio or Mistral cost. The Type 75s appear to have the same four 30mm autocannon plus two HHQ-10 anti-aircraft missile launchers. These have a range of about six kilometers.

Now that it is clear that China will soon have eight LPDs plus eleven of the larger Type 75s. These ships will be crucial in establishing and supplying small outposts in the South China Sea and elsewhere off the Chinese coast where there are more disputed islands. The recent appearance of 071s in the Indian Ocean indicates Chinese amphibious ambitions have a very long reach indeed. When not being the intimidator, the 071s stand ready to help out in natural disasters in the region. In both cases the 071s show countries in the region that China now has a large fleet and can be your friend or the neighbor who quickly and unexpectedly invades you from the sea.

The Chinese Navy has been seen exercising with LHDs with civilian ferries and Roll On-Roll Off or Ro-Ro ships. Construction of these ships was subsidized by the government with the understanding that these vessels were not part of the navy reserve fleet of support ships, which includes cargo and troops and fuel transports. Another recent development is a barge that carries a 130 meter long road platform that can be used on coastal areas that lack beaches but are close to roads. The new Chinese landing barges can approach these areas once Chinese commandos or paratroopers have seized a small portion. The barge gets close enough to the coastline for its road platform to be shoved or carried forward somehow to plop down near a coastal road.
Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products .

It didnt take long for wireless earbuds to become ubiquitous. Apples AirPods launched back in September 2016, joining notable true wireless headphones from Jabra, Sony, Samsung, and others. Shortly after, they became the go-to choice for many of us when listening to music, podcasts and streaming services on our phones and tablets.

But wireless earbuds can get very dirty very quickly, because not only are we using them a lot, but we take them everywhere: to work, on public transport, on flights and everywhere in between. This is especially true if youre using them to cancel out noise in a busy office  or are simply working from home at the same time as family or roommates.This means they will come into contact with ear wax, oils and skin cells. Hygiene aside, you should clean your earbuds (and their charging case) because it may result in better-sounding, longer-lasting headphones.

Here's how you can do that quickly and efficiently. If youre still a wired headphone holdout (or tempted by DAC-capable buds) most of our cleaning tips hold true  and you dont have to worry about refreshing a charging case.

How to clean your wireless earbuds

Mat Smith/Engadget

The cleaning process differs depending on what kind of buds you have. First, there are wireless earbuds with removable silicone (or plastic) buds, like Samsung's Galaxy Buds, Sonys WF-1000XM5 buds or most Beats buds, and several models with a single solid body, like Apples AirPods.

The main difference is that the detachable tips are easier to deep clean. They are also replaceable and spare tips often come in-box. You can also use soapy water or other mild cleaning products on particularly messy tips without fear of damaging the electrical parts of your headphones.

Wipe down the earbuds and removable tips with a microfiber cloth. As most wireless buds are stored in a case, you may find that dirt from the tips has shifted to the headphones, too. Apple says you can use 70-percent isopropyl alcohol wipe, 75-percent ethyl alcohol wipe or disinfectant wipes to clean the exterior of its wireless headphones, but advises that you shouldnt use wet wipes on the speaker mesh parts of the AirPods. Samsungs guidance sticks to soft dry cloths and cotton swabs.

Remove the tips, and gently trace the inside of each bud with cotton swab, or a toothpick if you need something thinner. If any detritus sticks around, upgrade to a metal loop on the end of an earphone cleaning tool, but just go carefully. Metallic objects are more likely to scratch and pierce things. The cleaning tool also has a brush at the other end to pull out any loose dirt. Once clear, wipe the sides of the tips with a slightly damp cloth.

The AirPods Pro tips each have a delicate mesh membrane, making it easier to clean than membranes on the headphones themselves, but theyre also fragile. Apple itself advises that you can rinse the tips with water, adding you shouldnt use soap or other cleaning products on them. If you do use a damp cloth or rinse them, make sure to set them on a dry cloth and let them dry completely before reattaching them.

Apple advises using cotton swabs or a dry cloth for the microphone and speaker mesh parts of the AirPods. You can also use a bulb air blower, which should provide a mild amount of force to dislodge dirt without harming electrics. However, while it might be stronger, dont use canned air. Sony says this can force dust further into the microphone or sound outlet holes.

How to clean your wireless earbuds' charging case

Mat Smith/Engadget

You might find that your charging case is in a worse state than your buds. With deep crevices to pick up dirt from your buds when theyre charging, the case can also pick up pocket-lint from being in, well, pockets and your bag. These cases typically use metal contacts to connect to and charge the buds, so any build-up of dirt or earwax can actually affect recharging your headphones. It pays to keep those charging contacts clean. A soft cloth, or a cotton swab for more difficult-to-reach locations, should be able to capture anything blocking your buds from charging. You could also use a bit of air from a bulb air blower  I find the ones with a brush attached are perfect for this.

For both the earbuds and the case, you can use a thin toothpick to pull away any grime or wax trapped in the seams of the device. Most earbuds are molded plastic, but some have edges and lines that collect dirt together.

If you find your AirPods case or other buds' case is getting a little grubby  or picking up a blue hue from jeans  you could also invest in a case for your case. There are infinite themed and silicone cases for Apples AirPod family, but plenty of options exist for buds made by Samsung, Sony, Google and other companies.

The ubiquity of wireless buds has several companies now offering all-in-one cleaning kits, too. These include established peripheral companies like Belkin, which has a single-use kit that features cleaning fluid to loosen up any tough build-up of wax and grime, and Keybudz, which offers a reusable kit that includes different brush head attachments that can also be used to clean other devices. That said, you may not need an entire kit, but suitable tools will make things easier.

You should always use the gentlest cleaning equipment before going ham with rubbing alcohol or a metallic tool. Doing so will reduce the chances of damaging your headphones' often glossy plastic casing and lessen the chances of damaging the delicate membranes that many buds (and some eartips) have. I speak from experience, having perforated two AirPod membranes due to over-enthusiastic cleaning. Even when removing the tips, take care: With Sonys WF-1000XM5, you need to twist and pull them off. Just follow the manufacturers guidance (we list several guides below), along with our best tips below.

How to keep your wireless earbuds clean

Now your buds are looking pristine, try to keep them looking that way. If youre using your AirPods or Galaxy Buds during your workouts, wipe them down with a cloth afterward to reduce the chances of moisture getting inside. The more frequently you check on the state of your wireless earbuds, the easier they are to clean.

Well finish this guide with a little bit of digital hygiene: make sure any companion TWE apps are up-to-date. These updates can sometimes add notable new features or improve performance. Your smartphone will usually transmit firmware updates to your earbuds automatically after OS and app updates, so make sure you keep them nearby to your phone. This is especially true with iPhones and AirPods, which will not notify you when firmware updates are available. Check that youve got the latest version of the firmware in iOS settings (you probably do), and if its not up-to-date, make sure both your iPhone and AirPods are plugged into power and (crucially) near each other. The update should be beamed to the AirPods pretty quickly, but you can also leave the devices next to each other overnight to ensure the update happens.

Check out more from our spring cleaning guide.
Lenovo is showing business laptops lovers some attention by announcing several new ThinkPads at Mobile World Congress 2025, including a new form factor for the T-series line, and updated internals across the business laptop lineup.

The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 is by far the most interesting of the bunch, with a new convertible body that's similar to Lenovo's Yoga laptops, and supports the magnetic Yoga Pen stylus. The laptop comes with up to a 14-inch, 400-nit WUXGA touch display, and inside, you can get up to a Intel Core Ultra 7 H or U 200 series chip, 64GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of storage. If you're looking for an option without a 360-degree hinge, the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 and ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 will also now come with either Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen AI Pro chips, up to 32GB of RAM and up to 2TB of storage.

Lenovo

Lenovo describes the new ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 as "one of the lightest ThinkPad designs ever," at only 2.05 lbs, but that light weight doesn't mean the laptop misses out on the latest internals. The X13 Gen 6 comes with either a Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen AI Pro chip, up to 64GB of LPDDR5x RAM and your choice of a 41Wh or 54.7Wh battery. The new ThinkPad can also support Wi-Fi 7 and an optional 5G connection, if you want to take it on the go.

Chip updates round out the remaining ThinkPads, with the ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 and E16 Gen 3 gaining support for up to an Intel Core Ultra 7 U or H 200 series chip and up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM, while the ThinkPad T16 Gen 4 is caps out at 32GB of RAM.

Lenovo is making the majority of its new ThinkPads available this summer, with the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 and ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 arriving in June 2025 for $1,719, $1,674 and $1,139, respectively. The ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 and ThinkPad T16 Gen 4 are launching a little earlier in May for $1,359 and $1,623. And rounding things out, the ThinkPad E14 Gen 7 and E16 Gen 3 are coming in "Q2 2025" for $849 and $859.

Engadget will be reporting all the latest mobile and smartphone news from MWC 2025 as it happens the week of March 2.
Lenovo has announced new laptops with generative AI features for this year's Mobile World Congress (MWC), including the Yoga Pro 9i Aura edition. Lenovo's Aura edition branding is the result of a partnership with Intel to create a set of "distinct software, hardware and AI features" that make "computing a more personalized, productive, and protected experience." The Yoga Pro 9i Aura edition is powered by the Intel Core Ultra processor and ships with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, which is the company's most affordable model in the RTX 50 series.

It has a 16-inch 3.2K PureSight Pro display with a double layer of OLED pixels that increases its overall brightness to 1600nits peak, as well as boosts its power efficiency. The display also supports 100 percent sRGB, P3 and Adobe RGB color gamut that provide true-to-life color accuracy. Like the previous versions of the Yoga Pro 9i, the Aura edition comes with the Lenovo Creator Zone, an on-device AI suite that can make third-party video, photo and music applications for creators easier to use. Lenovo's Yoga Pro 9i Aura Edition will be available starting in the second quarter of 2025, with prices starting at $1,799.

The company has also introduced the 15-inch IdeaPad Slim 3x, a Copilot+ PC that runs on Snapdragon X chip, Qualcomm's new platform designed to put Copilot+ PCs within reach for more people. IdeaPad Slim 3x can also process AI tasks on device and comes with a dedicated key for Microsoft's Copilot assistant. One more interesting feature is the device's open SSD slot that can fit an extra SSD for those who want to expand the laptop's storage capacity. The model will be available starting this month for at least $649.

Lenovo

Engadget will be reporting all the latest mobile and smartphone news from MWC 2025 as it happens the week of March 2.
Engadget has been testing and reviewing consumer tech since 2004. Our stories may include affiliate links; if you buy something through a link, we may earn a commission. Read more about how we evaluate products .

Mobile World Congress is taking place in Barcelona this week, offering manufacturers an opportunity to show off new gear without needing to hold their own splashy event. So far, we've learned about some new laptops and phones, as well as upcoming AI updates to Android and an internet connectivity announcement from Meta. There's also been some interesting ideas in the world of headphones and a whole lot of concepts that might never make it to market, but are fun to look at any way.

Here's a look at everything announced at Mobile World Congress that caught our eye. We'll update this story throughout the week.

Lenovo

Sam Rutherford for Engadget

Among the bigger-name manufacturers, Lenovo has arguably had the busiest MWC so far. The company has revealed a whole bunch of laptops, including upgraded ThinkPads and several intriguing concept models.

The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 has a design thats more aligned with the convertible format of the Yoga lineup than a typical ThinkPad. The 14-inch machine can be equipped with a 400-nit WUXGA touch display. Other ThinkPads are getting spec upgrades, while Lenovo claims the new ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 has one of the lightest ThinkPad designs ever. The company has a fresh slate of laptops with generative AI capabilities as well.

Some of Lenovos concepts have certainly caught our attention. Its a bummer that the company doesnt currently plan to turn the Yoga Solar PC Concept into a commercial device. Thanks to the solar cells on the casing, the laptop can soak up enough energy from the sun in 20 minutes to play an hour of videos. As little as 0.3 watts of light is enough to juice up the battery. While solar-powered laptops aren't exactly new, the Yoga Solar PC feels polished. Here's hoping Lenovo does more with the notion in the future.

Sam Rutherford for Engadget

In addition, Lenovo showed off some conceptual display accessories for a ThinkBook laptop. There's an eight-inch screen that attaches to the side magnetically to help you, for instance, keep up with notifications and widgets. The Magic Bay Dual Display Concept adds a 13.3-inch panel to either side of the main display. There's also a slim second display that's designed to sit above your laptop screen and provide quick access to things like the time, weather, notifications, a focus mode timer, an AI assistant and notifications.

Sam Rutherford for Engadget

On top of all of that, Lenovo offered a look at a new prototype laptop with a flexible display. Building on the tech the company used in the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable, the ThinkBook codename Flip AI PC Proof of concept (to give its full name) has a fold-out screen. This allows Lenovo to double the panel's size from 13 inches to 18.1 inches. The ThinkBook Rollable's display, on the other hand, can extend to 16.7 inches. Again, Lenovo doesn't currently plan to release a commercial version of this fold-out laptop, but it's an interesting idea.

Samsung

Photo by Mat Smith for Engadget.

The main MWC news from Samsung this year is the company's latest midrange and budget phones. The Galaxy A56 has a larger screen than its predecessor at 6.7 inches, but it's thinner too at 7.44mm vs. 8.2mm. There's now a small bump where the volume and power buttons are  a tweak that we feel makes the A56 easier to handle.

Samsung has switched up the camera array in the A56. On the front, there's a lower-res 12MP lens. On the other side, you'll find an upgraded 12MP ultrawide, 50MP main sensor and a 5MP macro lens. The A56 has a bunch of AI-powered camera and image editing features, such as enhanced subject detection in portrait mode and an object eraser.

Pre-orders are open in the UK for the Galaxy A56, which costs $499/499. It will hit the UK on March 19, but folks in the US will have to wait until "later this year" for it.

Samsung also revealed the Galaxy A36 5G and Galaxy A26 5G. Both devices have a 120Hz, 6.7-inch display with brightness of up to 1,200 nits. They also share an IP67 rating and 5,000mAh battery with the A56.

However, the base models of each only have 6GB of RAM (compared with the A56's 12GB). In addition, the A36 has the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor instead of the Exynos 1580 that the A56 boasts, while the A26 has a Exynos 1380 chipset.

Samsung's concept folding phones and gaming handhelds

In addition to properly launching the trio of A-series phones, Samsung also brought a bunch of concept devices to Barcelona, further showing off its flexible display prowess. We've seen reporting of these, like Android Police's coverage of a "Flex Gaming" handheld. That prototype consists of a 7.2-inch OLED screen that bends in half. Flanking the display are what appear to be controllers and holes where they'd fit when the handheld is folded up. Elsewhere on the internet we also saw Samsung showcase a Galaxy Z Flip-esque device that had two hinges that let it fold in on itself from the top and bottom. Allison Johnson at The Verge has nicknamed it "The Claw," which to our editor Cherlynn Low is just reminiscent of an MSI device.

Xiaomi

Sam Rutherford for Engadget

Unfortunately, Xiaomi doesn't have plans to bring a handset it showed off at MWC to the US. That's a real pity, because no other companies are selling phones quite like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra in the country these days.

Xiaomi teamed up with Leica to make a smartphone that leans heavily into photography. The camera array includes a 1-inch 50-megapixel Sony main sensor, an f/2.2 50MP ultrawide cam, a 50MP midrange lens with a 70mm focal length and a 200MP periscope array with a 100mm focal length  that equates to a 4.7x optical zoom. Some preset Leica filters help to tie the two brands' knowhow together.

That's not all that might be interesting to mobile snappers. Xiaomi's separate Photography kit includes an add-on camera grip with a physical shutter button, an adjustable dial and dedicated video button. You'll have the option to attach a standard 67mm filter adapter to a case as well  in other words, some of the equipment you might use on a dedicated camera is compatible with the Ultra 15 as part of this setup.

Moreover, the Ultra 15 has a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and up to 3,200 nits of brightness to help you get a good look at your captures. Plus, unlike some other Chinese phones (like Huawei's), Xiaomi supports Google services in HyperOS 2, which is an Android skin. The Ultra 15 starts at about 1,499 (around $1,572).

Android

Speaking of Android, Google announced two new AI-powered features for the operating system at MWC. The Live Video function, which Google first previewed at I/O 2024, allows you to share what your phone's camera sees with Gemini so you can ask the chatbot questions about the footage.

The new screensharing function works in a similar way. You can ask Gemini questions about whatever's on your phone or tablet's display.

If they work as well as advertised, these features could be a boon for accessibility. Google will first offer them to Gemini Advanced subscribers starting later this month. Those with a $20 per month Google One AI Premium membership, which is included with some Verizon plans, have access to Gemini Advanced.

Nothing

Image by Mat Smith for Engadget

Samsung wasn't the only smartphone maker of note to show off two new mid-range devices at MWC. Nothing debuted its Phone 3a Pro and Phone 3a at the event  even though it has yet to unleash the Phone 3.

The 3a Pro has a beefier camera module (quite literally as the device is about 10 grams heavier than the 3a). It contains a 50MP telephoto sensor with a 3x optical zoom; a 50MP primary sensor with f/1.88 lens and dual-pixel phase detection auto-focus (PDAF); and an ultrawide 8MP sensor with a 120-degree field of view. The handset has a telemacro mode too. As for the 3a, that boasts a main 50MP camera with single-pixel PDAF, but the other two sensors are the same as on the 3a Pro.

The cameras are the main difference between the two phones, which both have a 6.77-inch AMOLED LTPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and up to 1,300 nits of brightness. The phones have a 5,000mAh battery with support for 50W fast charging, and they run on a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset.

The devices have Nothing's multipurpose Essential Key, a physical button that can take screenshots and help you record voice notes. The phones also have some generative AI features, such as the ability to transcribe said voice notes and describe what's in screenshots and photos.

As usual, Nothing is initially offering these devices in the US through a beta program. Phone 3a pre-orders are open now and the $379 handset ships on March 11. That's the date when pre-orders for the Phone 3a Pro go live. The $459 phone can be in your hands on March 25.

There was more news out of MWC beyond new gear and OS updates. Meta and the Internet Society announced a partnership to bolster affordable internet connectivity around the globe. They're jointly putting $30 million into the initiative over the next five years.

A major aim of the project is to help build out infrastructure in areas where commercial providers have yet to do so. The Connectivity Co-Funding Initiative will also back training programs, community-centered solutions for underserved areas and locally owned networks. The Internet Society is hoping to find more partners to help with the project.

HMD

Finnish company HMD, which also makes devices under the Nokia brand, brought a bunch of phones to Barcelona this year, but maybe the most interesting thing was some earbuds. The Amped Earbuds are a pair of fairly standard Bluetooth buds, with a twist in the case: It's got a 1,600mAh battery built in that supports reverse wireless charging. It's a pretty solid idea  given you're likely already carrying a phone and some headphones. Perhaps the one issue is that capacity: 1,600mAh is enough to charge a lot of headphones, but it's dramatically smaller than the battery in your phone. Still, an extra 20 percent of battery life could be an lifesaver.

Update, March 7 2025, 4:05PM ET: This story has been updated twice since publish. Once to include a section on Samsung's concept folding devices, and once to add a section on HMD's Amped Earbuds. The introduction of the article was also changed.

Engadget will be reporting all the latest mobile and smartphone news from MWC 2025 as it happens the week of March 2.
The UK's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has announced it's investigating how TikTok, Reddit and Imgur protect children on their platforms.

The probe into TikTok is looking at how the platform uses it young users' (13 to 17 year olds) personal data for recommendations and suggested content, while the investigation into Reddit and Imgur focuses on both how the platforms are using children's personal information and how they're using measures that estimate or confirm a child's age.

"If social media and video sharing platforms want to benefit from operating in the UK they must comply with data protection law," UK Information Commissioner John Edwards stated. "The responsibility to keep children safe online lies firmly at the door of the companies offering these services and my office is steadfast in its commitment to hold them to account." The UK doesn't yet know if these companies have infringed on personal data protections.

In 2023, the ICO handed down a 12.7 million ($16.1 million) fine to TikTok. The platform had allowed up to 1.4 million children under 13 on it in 2020, and used their data without parental consent. The ByteDance-owned company has also faced backlash in the US around young users, with mixed results.
March 2, 2025: The Russian navy has about 130 hydrographic research ships. All but fifteen of them are short range vessels for mapping offshore waters no more than a hundred kilometers from the coast. If Russia is involved in another naval war in the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans, or the Black Sea and Baltic Sea, the hydrographic research vessels will provide Russian ships with more accurate information about the local weather and the underwater topography. Russia is preparing for future wars after it lost control of the Black Sea to Ukraine, a nation without a fleet.

Russias most recent naval war was in the Black Sea and it was a disaster. The Black Sea Fleet was largely destroyed by Ukrainian aerial and naval drones. Ukraine has a miniscule fleet consisting of coastal and riverine patrol boats. What Ukraine does have is imagination and resourcefulness the Russians lack. Ukraine quickly adapted their drones to take on warships and destroyed most of the Black Sea Fleet. The remnants of that fleet fled to distant ports in the Sea of Azov, over a thousand kilometers from Ukraine.

Before the Ukrainian War, Vladimir Putin believed that Russia must dominate the Black Sea and enable Russian warships and commercial transports to exit the Black Sea and enter the Mediterranean Sea, to demonstrate Russian naval power and increase maritime trade with foreign nations. Russia seized the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014. Before that Russia fought a brief war with Georgia in the Caucasus and gained control of most of Georgias Black Sea coast.

These moves were apparently prompted by the 2013 Russian formation of a Mediterranean Squadron from ships of the Black Sea fleet. In 2015 Russia intervened in the Syrian civil war on the side of the pro-Russian Assad government. This enabled Russia to build its Hmeimim Air Base in Syrias Latakia province near the Mediterranean coast. Russia also improved the nearby Tartus naval base it leased from Syria. This serves as a base for ships of the Russian Mediterranean Squadron. In North Africa Russia took control of the Al Jufra Air Base in Libya. This was to serve as a military base for further Russian activities in Africa. In late 2024 Russia lost Hmeimim and Tartus as the Assad clan, long a Russian ally, was driven out of Syria. The Assads found refuge in Russia. The Russian ships left Tartus as the Syrian government cancelled the 49 year Russian lease on Tartus and Hmeimim.

This change means Russia no longer has much naval power in the Mediterranean and dares not try to send any ships back into the Black Sea, mainly because Turkey invoked clauses of the 1936 Montreux Convention that enables Turkey to halt warship access to the Black Sea from the Mediterranean via the narrow Turkish Bosporus and Dardanelles straits. Turkey invoked the Montreux Convention after Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022.

Russia lost control of the Black Sea after it invaded Ukraine in 2022. Ukraine used drones armed with explosives to destroy or damage over a third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet warships. The surviving Russian ships fled to distant areas of the Black Sea to escape these novel but very effective Ukrainian attacks. Even in the new, more distant bases, Black Sea Fleet ships were still attacked by new, longer range Ukrainian naval attack drones. This was humiliating for Russia, which lost control of the Black Sea to Ukraine, a country without a fleet. The Ukrainians continue to use their drones against surviving Russian warships and now commercial ones. Ukrainian drones now block Russian tankers and commercial vessels from leaving or entering the Black Sea.

The mighty Soviet Navy, the second largest in the world, fell apart after 1991 when the Soviet Union dissolved and the Russian Federation could not afford to provide crews and fuel for its hundreds of ships. In 1991 the Soviet Fleet had over 500 major warships including 109 nuclear subs and nearly as many older nuclear subs retired but still afloat because Russian could not afford to safely scrap them. There were a thousand smaller patrol craft and support ships, most of which could be sold for scrap. The Kommuna escaped this carnage because it was a salvage and rescue ship and in good shape.

Less than two decades after the Soviet Union disappeared, the Russian Federation navy had about a hundred major warships in service and what little money there was for buying new ships went to build a dozen or so new nuclear powered SSBN ballistic missile submarines and diesel-electric or nuclear attack submarines. There was still not enough money to send ships to sea for long periods.

During the 1990s the navy was forced to retire most of its ships, including nearly 200 nuclear submarines. The nukes were a potential hazard already because some had already sunk off the north coast without regards to what impact the maritime nuclear power plants would have long-term. This prompted Western nations to spend nearly $20 billion in the 1990s to safely decommission the Russian nuclear subs.

As of 2025 Russia is depending on its large fleet of hydrographic research vessels to map the waters around Russia so that a new Russian fleet has detailed knowledge of areas where battles might take place. Rising above the humiliation of the Black Sea Fleet defeat is a very high priority.
At the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, filmmaker Sean Baker took home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for his film "Anora".

The win marks Baker's first Academy Award, capping off an impressive year for the film, which was nominated for six Oscars.

According to People, Baker, 54, accepted the award with gratitude. He began his speech by thanking the Academy: "This is crazy. Thank you to the Academy, thank you so much for this honor," he said as he stood at the podium.

He continued by expressing appreciation for his talented cast, acknowledging, "You elevated everything I wrote and made me look very good."

The most emotional part of Baker's speech came when he thanked the sex worker community, who played a significant role in informing "Anora."

"They have shared their stories, they have shared their life experience with me over the years," said Baker. "My deepest respect. Thank you. I share this with you."

"Anora" tells the story of a Brooklyn stripper, played by Mikey Madison, who marries the son of a Russian oligarch, played by Mark Eydelshteyn.

The film follows her as she is swept into a world of wealth and luxury but later faces the challenges posed by a family intent on tearing the couple apart.

The film has been widely praised for its authentic portrayal of the sex worker community and the complexities of the characters involved.

Sean Baker thanks the sex worker community while accepting his #Oscars award for best original screenplay for #Anora pic.twitter.com/qWAus2B5pQ  The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 3, 2025

Sean Baker Thanks Sex Worker Community and Film Team

Baker's win at the Oscars follows Anora's strong season, which included winning the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, a BAFTA, a Critics' Choice Award, and three Independent Spirit Awards. The film was also nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

In addition to his heartfelt words for the sex worker community, Baker thanked the film's producers, including Samantha Quan and Alex Coco, as well as Neon, FilmNation, Focus Features/Universal Pictures, and Le Pacte, Yahoo said.

He also expressed deep gratitude for the entire team that contributed to the success of the project.

Baker's focus on telling stories that highlight underrepresented individuals has been a defining element of his career.

From his breakthrough film Starlet in 2012 to Tangerine (filmed on an iPhone), Baker's body of work continues to center marginalized voices, including the sex worker community, as seen in Anora and his recent film Red Rocket.

Other films competing for Best Original Screenplay this year included "The Brutalist," written by Brady Corbet and Mona Fastvold, Jesse Eisenberg's "A Real Pain," "September 5" by Moritz Binder, Tim Fehlbaum, and Alex David, and "The Substance" by Coralie Fargeat.

Despite the fierce competition, Baker's powerful story and script stood out, earning him the Oscar in a category filled with remarkable work.
At the 2025 Academy Awards, Morgan Freeman delivered a heartfelt tribute to his late co-star Gene Hackman, leaving the audience deeply moved.

Hackman, 95, passed away just days before the ceremony, and Freeman, who had worked alongside the legendary actor in two films, honored him with an emotional speech.

"This week, our community lost a giant, and I lost a dear friend, Gene Hackman," Freeman began, his voice filled with emotion. Freeman, 87, spoke about Hackman's legacy and the impact the actor had on Hollywood.

According to BBC, he recalled their time working together on the Clint Eastwood-directed Western "Unforgiven" (1992), which won Hackman his second Oscar. The two later reunited for the 2000 film "Under Suspicion."

Freeman took a moment to reflect on Hackman's remarkable talent, praising him as a generous performer whose presence on screen elevated the work of everyone around him.

The tribute emphasized Hackman's exceptional ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles, which earned him two Academy Awards throughout his illustrious career.

Freeman also acknowledged that while Hackman received two Oscars, his true legacy lies in the affection and admiration he garnered from film lovers worldwide.

Morgan Freemans tribute to Gene Hackman at the #Oscars2025 was a heartfelt nod to a legend #RIPGeneHackman #UnforgivenLegacy pic.twitter.com/zIdYaCqCIi  Dan Western (@westerns1978) March 3, 2025

Freeman's Tribute to Hackman Celebrates His Iconic Career and Humble Legacy



In a moving moment, Freeman shared Hackman's personal philosophy on legacy. "Gene always said, 'I don't think about legacy, I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work,'" Freeman recalled.

"So I think I speak for us all when I say, 'Gene, you will be remembered for that and for so much more.' Rest in peace, my friend."

Hackman's death was confirmed just days earlier when authorities discovered his body alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, at their home in New Mexico.

The circumstances surrounding their deaths are still under investigation, with initial reports indicating potential carbon monoxide poisoning.

However, authorities later stated that both individuals tested negative for carbon monoxide, and further investigations continue, PageSix said.

Freeman's tribute was part of a broader in memoriam segment during the Oscars, which honored Hackman's extraordinary career.

Known for iconic roles in films like "The French Connection," "Bonnie and Clyde," "Mississippi Burning," and "Superman," Hackman retired from acting in 2004 after an illustrious 60-year career.

As the Oscars ceremony continued, Freeman's tribute stood out as a heartfelt moment of reflection on the profound impact Hackman had on the film industry and those who worked alongside him.

The audience was visibly moved as Freeman's words honored the life and legacy of one of Hollywood's greatest actors.
Monday, March 3, 2025

Of all the talents bestowed upon men, none is so precious as the gift of oratory. He who enjoys it wields a power more durable than that of a great king.

 Winston Churchill, British statesman, military officer, and writer who was Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1940 to 1945 (during the Second World War) and again from 1951 to 1955.

In this world of accelerating technological speed, it would be good if we stepped back in time instead of stepping forward to reveal what three legendary speakers can teach us about public speaking.

In this article, we will briefly examine the public speaking wisdom of Cicero (106  43 BCE), Winston Churchill (1874  1965), and Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929  1968).

Cicero (106  43 BCE)  The Master of Classical Oratory

Cicero, the Roman statesman, and orator, developed a structured approach to persuasive speech that is still studied today.

He structured his speeches for maximum effect. Cicero emphasized the Five Cannons of Rhetoric:

Invention (Inventio)  Gather strong arguments and compelling content.

Arrangement (Dispositio)  Organize your speech logically (Introduction, Narration, Proof, Refutation, Conclusion).

Style (Elocutio)  Use eloquent language, metaphors, and rhetorical devices.

Memory (Memoria)  Master the art of memorization.

Delivery (Pronuntiatio)  Control gestures, voice, and pacing.

Cicero also taught to persuade an audience, a speaker must balance the following:

Logos (reason and evidence)

Pathos (emotion and storytelling)

Ethos (credibility and trustworthiness)

He practiced daily and learned from great speakers of his time. He studied and imitated Greek orators like Demosthenes. Cicero recommended practicing speeches out loud, debating regularly, and refining delivery.

Cicero can teach us plenty about public speaking.

So can Winston Churchill.

Winston Churchill (1874  1965)  The Power of Persuasive Oratory

Winston Churchill, Britains wartime leader, was a master of rhetoric and delivery. His speeches inspired nations.

He prepared relentlessly. He rehearsed, revised, and rehearsed again until he was satisfied his speech would affect his audience as he intended.

Despite sounding spontaneous, Churchills speeches were carefully crafted and rewritten multiple times. He practiced aloud and refined his phrasing for maximum clarity and emotional effect.

Churchill used strong, simple, and rhythmic Language to move his audiences. He believed in short, punchy sentences to make a speech more memorable.

Churchill often used the Rule of Three, e.g., Blood, toil, tears, and sweat (May 13, 1940, speech to the English Parliament).

He mastered the art of pauses and emphasis. He used deliberate pauses to emphasize points and command attention.

Churchills speeches had a natural rhythm, alternating between slow and powerful moments.

Cicero and Winston Churchill can teach us a lot about public speaking.

So can Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. (1929  1968)  The Power of Passion and Storytelling

MLKs speeches, particularly I Have a Dream, remain among historys most potent speeches.

He used repetition and rhythm to reinforce key ideas. MLK repeated powerful phrases to emphasize points (I have a dream).

Kings speeches followed a rhythmic cadence, much like church sermons.

He incorporated vivid imagery and metaphors. He used poetic imagery to paint a vision: Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York.

Metaphors helped connect complex ideas with relatable images.

King concludes with a powerful, uplifting message. His speeches ended on high emotional notes, leaving audiences inspired.

King often used inclusive language (Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends).

Cicero was a master of rhetoric, structure, and logic.

Winston Churchill prepared rigorously, used simple but powerful words, and commanded attention.

Martin Luther King used rhythm, repetition, and vivid imagery for emotional impact.

These techniques can make you a more persuasive, impactful, and inspiring public speaker.

Which speakers style do you find most effective?

Apply them and realize success with your audience!

Call to Action

When you speak, appeal to your audiences reason (Logos), emotion (Pathos), and credibility (Ethos)

Use simple, powerful words to command the attention of your audience

To maximize the emotional impact on your audience, use rhythm, repetition, and vivid imagery

To be a successful orator, act as if you were speaking in private.

 Cicero, Roman statesman, lawyer, orator, and philosopher ___________________________________

References

Cicero, De Oratore

Cicero, On the Ideal Orator

Cicero, Brutus)

William Manchester, The Last Lion: Winston Spencer Churchill

Richard Toye, The Roar of the Lion: The Untold Story of Churchills World War II Speeches

Martin Luther King, I Have a Dream Speech, August 28, 1963

Martin Luther King, Letter from Birmingham Jail

Martin Luther King, Ive Been to the Mountaintop Speech, April 3, 1968

___________________________________

Being a confident, engaging, and effective technical speaker is a vital personal and professional asset. With more than 40 years of engineering experience and more than 30 years of award-winning public speaking experience, Frank DiBartolomeo can help you reduce your presentation preparatory time by 50%, overcome your fear of public speaking and be completely at ease, deliver your presentations effectively, develop your personal presence with your audience; and apply an innovative way to handle audience questions deftly.
Last Month to Nominate New Authors for the Colorado Authors Hall of Fame

March 3, 2025



For Immediate Release



Contact: Judith Briles



Judith@Briles.com



303-885-2207

Last Month to Nominate New Authors for the Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame

Denver, CO March 3, 2025  With the New Year comes new opportunities. New ways of living, new goals to set, new skills to acquire, and new discoveries to make. And the Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame is looking for new authors to add to their inductees in 2025. And the people to help with that? The public at large.

The nominations for fourth Colorado Authors' Hall of are now open to the public and will remain so until the end of March. The induction ceremony will be held on September 6 of 2025 at the DoubleTree Denver Tech Center in Greenwood Village, Colorado.

Information about the upcoming Induction event, donations, events, board members and future inductees can all be found at www.ColoradoAuthorsHallofFame.org.

The criteria for the nominations for the Hall of Fame are as follows:

The author was born in Colorado, currently live in Colorado, or created one of their published works in Colorado.

They write about Colorado or include a location or event in Colorado as part of their published work.

Made significant and enduring contributions to their fields of work.

Helped open new frontiers for writing styles, ideas and concepts.

Inspired others by the breadth of their writing and work.

Advanced the status of authors.

Up to 12 authors will be nominated for the 2025 Hall of Fame before nominations close at the end of March, 2025.

To date 50 Colorado conducted authors have been inducted and featuredall are diverse in their backgrounds and genres, from science fiction writers like Dom Testa and Connie Willis, to mystery and thriller writers like Stephen King and Margaret Coel, to non-fiction authors like Mary Taylor Young and Marilyn Van Derbur. Other authors that have passed away but were still honored included legendary Western author Louis L'Amour and Colorado author and literacy advocate Sybil Downing.

The Hall of Fame wanted to share a quote by Legacy inductee Louis L'Amour for any budding writers looking to enhance their craft as the enter in the New Year. "If you're going to be a writer, the first essential is just to write. Do not wait for an idea. Start writing something and the ideas will come. You have to turn the faucet on before the water starts to flow."

The Hall strives to educate the people of Colorado and the country about the stories of the authors who shaped their works using their personal presence and the environment of our State

with courage, leadership, intelligence, compassion, and creativity. It wants to include authors who've made a major impact on others with their words. To make sure their legacies never die.

Press inquiries: Judith Briles, Judith@Briles.com or 303-885-2207.

###
A Scotland Rural College (SRUC) campus could see its main building close down, as well as the discontinuation of a course, due to 'significant financial challenges'.

The land-based college has begun consultation with staff on its proposal to close Elmwood's main building, which has previously cost 1.2m a year to run.

The facility, based in Fife, was originally designed for 1,500 students, but currently has just 310 enrolled full-time students.

Under SRUC's proposal, Elmwood House and its horticulture facilities would remain open and gamekeeping courses would continue to be offered.

However, animal care courses at the campus would be scrapped, the college explained in a statement on the matter.

Professor Wayne Powell, principal of SRUC said: We are committed to Elmwood, but the campus has run at a loss, with the structurally compromised main building previously costing up to 1.2m a year to run.

"To ensure a sustainable campus model that is fit for purpose, we have begun a consultation with a number of Elmwood staff on a proposal to close the main building on a permanent basis.

"We do not anticipate that any current students will be affected by this proposed change, but any student who has not fully completed their one-year programme by the end of the 2024-25 academic year will be supported to achieve this."

"Animal care will still be offered as a subject at SRUC and those wishing to progress to the next level of study will have the opportunity to do so at another campus."

Professor Powell said the proposals would enable SRUC to maintain its presence in Cupar and continue to offer options for in-person learning in this region in 'a financially sustainable way'.

"It is vital that our teaching is delivered in a way that is financially sustainable, particularly when SRUC  like a number of education institutions throughout the country  is facing significant financial challenges," he said.
In a surprising move, former President Donald Trump revealed plans to create a "Crypto Strategic Reserve," leading to an immediate surge in the prices of major cryptocurrencies.

The reserve would include Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP, Solana (SOL), and Cardano (ADA), all of which saw significant price increases following Trump's announcement.

The news comes after Trump made the bold claim on his social media platform, Truth Social, that the United States would become "the Crypto Capital of the World."

In a series of posts, he outlined how his executive order would direct the Presidential Working Group to move forward with the creation of a national crypto reserve. The reserve would hold key cryptocurrencies like XRP, SOL, and ADA, while BTC and ETH would also play a central role.

According to Business Insider, Trump's announcement sent the market into a frenzy. XRP surged by 30%, Solana rose 21%, and Cardano shot up by 61%.

Bitcoin and Ethereum also saw gains, with Bitcoin increasing by 9% and Ethereum rising by 12%. By Sunday afternoon, Ethereum was trading at $2,500, while Bitcoin reached $94,069, according to CoinGecko.

This move marks a stark contrast from Trump's earlier stance on cryptocurrencies. During his presidency, he famously called Bitcoin a "scam" and expressed concerns over its volatility.

However, his recent comments and actions suggest a complete shift in his position. In fact, Trump's latest initiative aligns with a pledge he made in July at the Bitcoin 2024 conference, where he vowed to hold the federal government's cryptocurrency assets in a "national Bitcoin stockpile."

This latest announcement, however, goes further by suggesting the active purchase of cryptocurrencies for the reserve, as opposed to simply holding seized assets.

Trump Eyes National Crypto Reserve to Combat Market Instability

The idea of a strategic reserve is not new; the US already maintains reserves for commodities like oil.

These reserves are set aside to be used in times of crisis or supply chain disruptions. Similarly, Trump's "Crypto Strategic Reserve" could serve as a safeguard against market fluctuations or other unforeseen challenges in the cryptocurrency space, BBC said.

Trump's announcement has led to renewed interest in digital currencies, which had seen a downturn following a spike after his election. The move also highlights his growing engagement with the crypto world.

In recent months, both Trump and his wife, Melania, have launched their own cryptocurrency ventures, adding fuel to speculation that they may be seeking to profit from the growing interest in digital currencies.

While the specifics of how the crypto reserve will operate remain unclear, more details are expected to emerge on Friday when Trump hosts the first-ever Crypto Summit at the White House.

Trump's latest move comes at a time when the cryptocurrency market is facing heightened scrutiny.

His previous administration, under President Joe Biden, had initiated crackdowns on crypto due to concerns about fraud and money laundering. It remains to be seen how the new reserve will affect future regulations and policies surrounding digital currencies.

Originally published on vcpost.com
It was a historic moment in the Indian Air Force as Flying Officer Tanushka Singh was permanently inducted into the Indian Air Forces Jaguar fighter jet squadron. She became the first woman pilot to be making it to the Jaguar fighter squad. With such appointments in the force, Indias armed forces be in the Army, AirForce, Navy or others continue to create more opportunities for women in combat rolesWhile women pilots have previously trained on the Jaguar aircraft, Tanushkas permanent induction into an operational squadron is a something to cheer about. The Jaguar, a key tactical strike aircraft, is known for its precision attack capabilities, making her role even more crucial. She will soon report for active duty, showcasing her skills in one of the most demanding roles in military aviation.Born in Uttar Pradesh and raised in Mangaluru since 2007, Tanushkas completed her schooling in Suratkal and later pursued a B.Tech in Electrical and Electronics Engineering which came in handy with her role in the AirForce. She initially aspired to join the Indian Army, following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather, who both served in the armed forces. However, after learning about the expanding opportunities for women in the IAF, she shifted her focus to aviation. Her rigorous training at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Telangana, followed by specialised instruction on the Hawk MK 132 aircraft, prepared her for this prestigious role.Her grandfather, Captain D.B. Singh (Retd.), expressed immense pride in her achievement, revealing how their family has been inundated with congratulatory messages. He credited Tanushkas grandmother for making key decisions that helped shape the familys journey, ultimately enabling her to reach this milestone.As the IAF continues to break barriers and create more opportunities for women in combat roles, her success will undoubtedly inspire many aspiring women aviators to chase their dreams.
Turkiye's apparel exports declined by 2.40 per cent year-on-year (YoY) in January 2025, totalling $1,356 million compared to $1,389 million in the same month of 2024, according to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the Ministry of Trade. The countrys apparel exports had recorded a drop of 4.47 per cent to $17.494 billion in 2024.

Exports of knitted and crocheted clothing and accessories (HS Chapter 61) increased by 0.9 per cent to $772.534 million, up from $765.433 million in January 2024. Non-knitted apparel and accessories (HS Chapter 62) experienced a 6.5 per cent decline, falling to $583.975 million from $624.457 million during the same month last year, as per the trade report on the top twenty chapters.

Turkiye's apparel exports fell by 2.40 per cent YoY in January 2025 to $1,356 million. In 2024, total exports declined by 4.47 per cent to $17.494 billion. Knitted apparel exports saw a slight increase in January 2025, while non-knitted apparel fell by 6.5 per cent. No textiles-related products were among the top 20 imports. Apparel exports had also declined in 2023 and 2022.

Among the top 20 product chapters imported by Turkiye, no textiles-related chapter appeared in January 2025.

During 2024, Turkiye's apparel exports declined by 4.47 per cent to $17.494 billion, compared to $18.314 billion in 2023. Shipments of knitted and crocheted clothing and accessories (HS Chapter 61) dropped by 1.6 per cent to $10,109.110 million, down from $10,277.566 million in 2023. Non-knitted apparel and accessories (HS Chapter 62) experienced an 8.1 per cent decline, falling to $7,385.592 million from $8,037.378 million in 2023.

In 2023, Turkiyes apparel exports fell by 5.86 per cent to $18.321 billion, compared to $19.463 billion in 2022, following $18.294 billion in 2021.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
Red Hat, KDDI and Samsung are working together to minimize deployment and provisioning time while enabling continuous software upgrades for Open RAN using Red Hat OpenShift and Samsung's virtualized RAN (vRAN) solutions

Red Hat, Inc., the world's leading provider of open source solutions, today announced a collaboration with KDDI, a Japanese telecommunications operator, to develop and deploy an open radio access network (Open RAN) built on Red Hat OpenShift, the industry's leading hybrid cloud application platform powered by Kubernetes. One of the main objectives is to streamline Day 0 and Day 2 operations via a faster method for Open RAN software installation and upgrades that reduce service downtime due to maintenance.

Red Hat OpenShift is the open standard platform for KDDI's mobile network services. Now, KDDI is tapping Red Hat OpenShift's cloud-native capabilities to improve Open RAN functionality for service providers to transform their networks with a horizontal cloud platform that can span the entire network and support multiple functions and vendors. As part of this initiative, Red Hat is collaborating with KDDI and Samsung to deliver increased flexibility and stability in the network by leveraging Samsung's software-based network solutions, including its vRAN.

KDDI's Open RAN on Red Hat OpenShift aims to minimize downtime, accelerate software installation and upgrade processes using Red Hat OpenShift capabilities such as image-based install (IBI) and image-based upgrade (IBU) to accelerate software installation and upgrade processes. Furthermore, Red Hat OpenShift enables zero touch provisioning to automate deployment tasks utilizing Red Hat Advanced Cluster Management for Kubernetes.

KDDI is pleased to further extend our collaboration with Red Hat to equip service providers with Open RAN capabilities that can keep up with modern network demands and support future innovation. Built on Red Hat OpenShift, the Open RAN solution demonstrates a leading-edge approach to network operations and capabilities for service providers to achieve shorter maintenance window with RAN services.

Supporting Quotes

Honore LaBourdette, vice president, Global Telco Ecosystem, Red Hat

"With this collaboration, Red Hat, KDDI and Samsung continue to build upon our shared vision to accelerate 5G core and RAN workloads across any network landscape. This approach to Open RAN relies upon the open, standard hybrid cloud platform of Red Hat OpenShift to set a common foundation for streamlined operations and improved efficiency for network services."

Kazuhiro Furuhata, vice president and general manager, Network Node Technical Development Division, KDDI

"KDDI is pleased to further extend our collaboration with Red Hat for Open RAN deployment that can support future innovation. Built on Red Hat OpenShift, we believe that using IBI and IBU capabilities demonstrates a leading-edge approach to expand our Open RAN deployment."

Ilseung Ban, vice president and head of Japan business development, Networks Business, Samsung Electronics

"For years, Samsung has been fostering a robust ecosystem with industry-leading partners, enabling operators to easily transition to virtualized open networks through its innovative vRAN and Open RAN solutions. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with KDDI and Red Hat to refine and advance Open RAN capabilities for the next-generation of networks."

Additional Resources

Check out the Red Hat Newsroom: MWC Barcelona 2025

Find Red Hat at MWC Barcelona 2025

Learn more about Red Hat and KDDI

Connect with Red Hat

Learn more about Red Hat

Get more news in the Red Hat newsroom

Read the Red Hat blog

Follow Red Hat on X

Follow Red Hat on Instagram

Follow Red Hat on LinkedIn

Watch Red Hat videos on YouTube

About Red Hat, Inc.

Red Hat is the world's leading provider of enterprise open source software solutions, using a community-powered approach to deliver reliable and high-performing Linux, hybrid cloud, container, and Kubernetes technologies. Red Hat helps customers integrate new and existing IT applications, develop cloud-native applications, standardize on our industry-leading operating system, and automate, secure, and manage complex environments. Award-winning support, training, and consulting services make Red Hat a trusted adviser to the Fortune 500. As a strategic partner to cloud providers, system integrators, application vendors, customers, and open source communities, Red Hat can help organizations prepare for the digital future.

Forward-Looking Statements

Except for the historical information and discussions contained herein, statements contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the company's current assumptions regarding future business and financial performance. These statements involve a number of risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially. Any forward-looking statement in this press release speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Except as required by law, the company assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

Red Hat, the Red Hat logo and OpenShift are trademarks or registered trademarks of Red Hat, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250302874490/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Jessie Beach

jbeach@redhat.com

+1 (919) 602-2836
In the initial 15 days after the launch across 250,000 homes, ACT SmartWi-Fi  users enjoyed an average speed improvement of 3X on all devices.

users enjoyed an average speed improvement of 3X on all devices. Over 80% of Smart TVs, 70% of laptops, and 60% of mobile devices were successfully steered to optimal Wi-Fi channels, ensuring a more reliable and high-performing experience.

ACT SmartWi-Fi  has also significantly improved speed and throughput on specific devices-it is nearly two times faster on Smart TVs, two times faster on laptops, and four times faster on smartphones.

has also significantly improved speed and throughput on specific devices-it is nearly two times faster on Smart TVs, two times faster on laptops, and four times faster on smartphones. These results demonstrate that ACT SmartWi-Fi, powered by Aprecomm's advanced AI, is already transforming subscribers' in-home Wi-Fi experiences.

BENGALURU, India, March 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ACT Fibernet , one of India's leading internet service providers, is excited to share early results of its ACT SmartWi-Fi launch, powered by its proprietary router OS, ACT Zippy. Developed in partnership with Aprecomm , this cutting-edge AI technology has demonstrated its ability to deliver a superior Wi-Fi experience, resulting in significantly higher Wi-Fi performance across all device types and fulfilling the company's promise to transform in-home connectivity for its customers.

During the initial launch stages across 250,000 homes over 15 days, ACT SmartWi-Fi users experienced an average of three times higher speeds delivered to all devices than in homes without the new smart Wi-Fi service. Specific devices showcased even more impressive gains-Smart TVs saw speeds improve by two times, laptops by three times, and smartphones by four times. Additionally, thanks to AI-powered intelligent optimization, over 80% of Smart TVs, over 70% of laptops, and over 60% of mobile devices were successfully steered to optimal Wi-Fi channels, ensuring a more reliable and higher-performing internet experience and resolving issues such as interference and congestion before they could impact the end user.

"We are thrilled to see the transformative impact of ACT SmartWi-Fi on our customers' digital lives," said Ravi Karthik, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer of ACT Fibernet. "Our initial launch data validates our commitment to delivering on our promise-ensuring a significantly superior online experience for our customers. Whether streaming on a Smart TV, working on a laptop, or browsing on a mobile device, ACT is redefining what high-performing internet looks like in Indian homes."

ACT Fibernet's partner, Aprecomm, also expressed excitement about the results: "The partnership has enabled us to push the boundaries of what's possible with in-home Wi-Fi," said Pramod Gummaraj, Founder & CEO of Aprecomm. "Our agentic AI solution, which currently enables ACT SmartWi-Fi, works to optimize for every device and application to enable a superior Wi-Fi experience. This delivers, among other benefits, improved speed, reduced latency, and enhanced reliability. We're proud to be part of this journey to enhance connectivity for millions of users."

ACT SmartWi-Fi, powered by Aprecomm's agentic AI solution, proactively scans and monitors in-home Wi-Fi, identifying potential issues, such as congestion and interference, and optimizes the experience in real-time through features like channel switching and band steering. This proprietary algorithm captures more than 15 parameters in real-time, calculating a Wi-Fi quality of experience score for each device and continuously optimizes to ensure enhanced experience across all devices, applications, and corners of the home, 24/7. ACT Fibernet continues to lead the way in revolutionizing internet services in India, with ACT SmartWi-Fi setting a new benchmark for in-home Wi-Fi performance. The company remains committed to leveraging cutting-edge technology to empower its customers with seamless, high-speed connectivity for all their digital needs.

About ACT Fibernet

ACT Fibernet is one of India's largest wired ISPs, headquartered in Bengaluru, with operations in 30+ cities and serving 2.3 million customers. Known for its reliable and high-speed internet connections, ACT Fibernet caters to a diverse range of customer needs. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, ACT Fibernet provides excellent customer support and a seamless user experience. The company offers a wide range of plans to suit various budgets and usage requirements. For more information, please visit www.actcorp.in.

Press contact

Genishka Chouhan

genishka@value360india.com

+91 7742855997

About Aprecomm

Aprecomm harnesses the power of AI to provide a unique applications suite that enables service providers to create self-optimizing and self-healing broadband networks.

Our quality-of-experience engine monitors and optimizes Wi-Fi performance to ensure consumers enjoy the best possible internet experience. At the same time, our cloud-based support applications leverage real-time data to predict and resolve customer service issues before they happen, saving providers time and money.

Aprecomm manages over 7 million home and business locations, partnering with more than 45 service providers worldwide.

Together, we are making intuitive networks a reality.

Follow Aprecomm on LinkedIn here .

IntuitiveNetworks

BringingJoyToOnline

Visit www.aprecomm.ai to discover more.

Press contact

corporatecomms@aprecomm.ai

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2502247/5193486/Aprecomm_Logo.jpg

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Ansell Limited (ASX: ANN), a global leader in protection solutions, announced today that its sales organisation will begin accepting Kimtech and KleenGuard orders and managing customer inquiries across North America and Europe. This marks the first significant commercial milestone following the strategic acquisition of Kimberly-Clark's Personal Protective Equipment (KCPPE) business last year and strengthens Ansell's position as a global leader in safety solutions.

With the addition of Kimtech and KleenGuard to Ansell's market-leading portfolio of brands, Ansell offers an even broader range safety solutions to customers operating in laboratories, cleanrooms, and industrial manufacturing environments.

As part of the North American and European portfolio expansion, Ansell also introduces two new capabilities: The RightCycle Program, a sustainable solution for the disposal of non-hazardous personal protective equipment (PPE) waste, and APEX, a best-in-class approach to cleanroom customer change management and contamination control.

Neil Salmon, CEO of Ansell, stated: "Ansell's strategic acquisition of Kimberly-Clark Corporation's Personal Protective Equipment (KCPPE) business last year not only enhanced the breadth of our portfolio to include best-in-class brands like Kimtech, KleenGuard, and RightCycle, it also strengthened our ability to advise customers as they navigate an increasingly complex market landscape. With even more expertise in areas like materials science innovation, PPE supply chains and international safety regulations, Ansell is better positioned than ever to help customers achieve their safety goals."

The next milestone in the transition of this business will come in June 2025, when Ansell Latin America and Asia Pacific sales teams begin accepting orders for Kimtech and KleenGuard products.

About Ansell

Ansell (ASX: ANN) is a global leader in safety solutions and an integrated manufacturer of personal protection equipment for healthcare and industrial workplaces. Each day, over 10 million workers in more than 100 countries trust their safety to Ansell brands such as HyFlex, Ringers, MICROFLEX, TouchNTuff, GAMMEX, Kimtech, KleenGuard, and AlphaTec. Driven by a vision to lead the world to a safer future, the company continuously pursues new product and service innovations that predict, prevent, and protect against workplace risk while promoting sustainable sourcing and manufacturing.

Information on Ansell and its products can be found at www.ansell.com. AnsellProtects

Ansell, and TM are trademarks owned by Ansell Limited or one of its affiliates. US Patented and US and non-US Patents Pending: www.ansell.com/patentmarking

 2025 Ansell Limited. All Rights Reserved.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250302096825/en/

Contacts:

Ansell News Bureau

news@ansell.com
DUBAI, UAE, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Instinctif Partners, one of the leading and fastest-growing strategic reputation advisory firms in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region, is excited to announce the appointment of Nour Sukkar as Partner in its Capital Markets and Investor Relations team, where she will play a key role in driving growth across the MENA region.

Instinctif is a well-established leader in both Investor Relations (IR) and Financial Communications across the region advising many of the largest and most high-profile companies.

An ex-investment banker with extensive experience in investor relations and financial transactions, Nour brings a depth of experience to Instinctif Partners, having worked with prestigious global firms such as Credit Suisse (now UBS), HSBC, Teneo and TD. Over the course of her career, Nour has provided strategic advice to a wide range of clients, leading large-scale IPO and M&A transactions and advising on investor relations across Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and globally. Nour has advised on notable financial transactions from both the banking and communications side, including a stake sale in a construction and development company to the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the sale of a major stake in a leading food and beverage company, a merger within the mining industry, as well as multiple listings within the healthcare, transportation and utilities sectors.

"We are excited to welcome Nour to Instinctif Partners. Her proven track record in the financial markets make her a perfect fit to help drive our MENA IR services further forward. Nour's expertise in capital markets, along with her exceptional strategic insight will be invaluable as we continue to support our clients' evolving needs through today's dynamic markets", saidSamantha Bartel, CEO Instinctif Partners MENA.

'As Partner,Nour will be responsible for further expanding Instinctif Partners' presence in the region, particularly providing strategic investor relations and transaction-related financial communications advice. Having worked in finance for 10 years, Nour's diverse experience in the banking and investor relations sectors position her as a trusted advisor to clients across diverse industries, including but not limited to energy, retail, utilities, aviation, construction and services', added Matthew Smallwood, Managing Partner, Instinctif Partners.

"It is a privilege to join Instinctif Partners and contribute to its growth in the MENA region. The company's approach to delivering strategic and financial advice aligns perfectly with the needs of clients navigating the fast-paced developments of the region's financial markets. I look forward to working alongside a talented team to provide clients with world-class advisory services through this period of transformation", saidNour Sukkar, Partner, Instinctif Partners.

Nour holds the CFA designation and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McGill University, specializing in Finance and Entrepreneurship.

About Instinctif Partners

Instinctif Partners (www.instinctif.com) is an EMEA communications consultancy and strategic reputation advisor, partnering with clients to navigate change, mitigate risk and build value through communications that influence and engage the right audiences in the right way.

Headquartered in London, Instinctif operates across Europe, Africa and the Middle East through its wholly owned network of offices and globally through its affiliate network.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2631257/Instinctif_Partners.jpg

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Gurit Holding AG / Key word(s): Annual Results

GURIT REPORTS NET SALES OF CHF 431.7 MILLION AND AN ADJUSTED OPERATING PROFIT MARGIN OF 6.9% FOR 2024



03-March-2025 / 06:45 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





Zurich, March 3, 2025 - Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR Gurit (SIX Swiss Exchange: GURN) today reports net sales of CHF 431.7 million for the full year 2024, which is a decrease of -2.9% at constant exchange rates or -6.1% in reported CHF. For 2024, Gurit reached an adjusted operating profit margin of 6.9%. This compares to an adjusted operating profit margin of 4.5% in the calendar year 2023. Including restructuring and impairment charges, the operating profit margin is -1.7%. With a fully reviewed Wind set-up and a Marine and Industrial organization ready to accelerate its growth path, Gurit will become leaner and stronger. 2024 was a year of transformation for Gurit. After acknowledging the volatility in the Wind market and excessive build capacity in China, the company took decisive action to strategically realign its operations to improve resilience and position itself appropriately for the new economic environment. Gurit has undertaken a rebalancing of investments between its markets, and accelerated action to strengthen its market presence in key Marine and Industrial growth areas. Wind Materials achieved net sales of CHF 285.6 million for 2024. This represents a decrease of -3.4% at constant exchange rates compared to 2023. Despite industry-wide challenges resulting from inventory reductions and quality stabilization efforts, long-term agreements with key western OEMs enabled Gurit to maintain a competitive position and ensure a stable market presence. In response to the changing market dynamics, Gurit optimized its global Wind footprint, expanding its capabilities at some sites, while closing others.

Manufacturing Solutions achieved a turnover of CHF 45.3 million, which represents a decrease of -8.7% at constant exchange rates compared to 2023. This segment experienced a challenging 2024, driven by reduced demand from Wind energy customers, particularly in the first half of the year, and a shift in orders due to slower platform introductions in Western markets. Ramping up enhanced technical capabilities and production capacity in Chennai yielded results within a strengthening domestic Indian market. However, the company also unlocked new markets, such as rotor sails on cargo ships, for its large structure tooling solutions. Marine and Industrial reports net sales of CHF 101.2 million for 2024. This is an increase of +1.6% at constant exchange rates compared to 2023. In the Marine sector, demand recovered after an initial softening in the first quarter and maintained steady momentum through the remainder of the year, with well-established Gurit products often being the materials of choice for the most demanding of marine applications. In the transportation and construction sectors, recycled PET core materials for panels gained traction, as demand continues to grow for lightweight, sustainable materials. Innovation continued to drive growth into new segments, with products like Corecell S-Foam gaining attention in the subsea application field. Enhanced production capacity and new fulfilment centers were established in key regions to provide more responsive support in these growing market sectors. Profitability

For the calendar year 2024, Gurit reached an adjusted operating profit margin of 6.9%. This compares to an adjusted operating profit margin of 4.5% in the calendar year 2023. Including restructuring and impairment charges, the operation profit margin is -1.7%. The adjusted operating profit reached CHF 29.7 million which is a significant improvement over prior year (2023: CHF 20.6 million).



Result for the year 2024 amounted to CHF -27.8 million (2023: 4.0 million). This represents earnings per listed share of CHF -5.97 (2023: CHF 1.59). Net result was impacted by CHF 37.0 million restructuring and impairment charges booked in 2024. Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

Gurit achieved a net cash flow from operating activities of CHF 13.5 million (2023: CHF 37.7 million). Capital expenditure amounted to CHF 10.5 million in 2024 compared to CHF 11.3 million in the previous year. Despite industry challenges, Gurit was able to generate a positive free cash flow for 2024 amounting to CHF 4.4 million. The company anticipated the renewal of its loan agreement and signed in February a new Credit Facility Agreement expiring February 2028, with a 1-year extension possibility. Streamlining To proactively address the challenges experienced across the Wind sector this year, Gurit undertook an optimization of its global footprint, including cost rationalization. These decisive actions allowed Gurit to mitigate external pressures, strengthen its operational resilience, and more optimally align with the long-term opportunity in the Wind sector. Strategic realignment

Gurit pivots towards a multi-market strategy and increased diversification across its business segments, building on the Marine & Industrial markets. The company continues to focus on long-term resilience and value creation, with a balanced approach to both Wind energy and non-Wind sectors. Over the past three years, Gurit has significantly strengthened its sales and technical organizations across North America and Europe to better address these new market opportunities. The company's new strategy strengthens its global positioning as a leader in performance materials with a focus on empowering its customers to achieve energy efficiency with sustainable material solutions, underpinned by Gurit's inherent ability to innovate. Outlook Gurit expects for 2025 to reach an adjusted operating profit margin around the 2024 level, as discontinued businesses will negatively impact profit in the first half. Possible volume swings, anticipations, or postponements, linked to the global tariff conflict, in addition to the discontinuation of some businesses, do not allow to produce a realistic sales guidance. Post 2025, Gurit expects a mid-single-digit growth in Wind and a high-single-digit growth in non-Wind businesses and confirms its mid-term target of a 10% operating profit margin. Sustainability road - delivering on ESG

Gurit continues to make significant progress in its sustainability efforts, evidenced by the results of assessments from various leading rating agencies. The company has been awarded, for the second time, a gold medal by EcoVadis, one of the world's largest sustainability rating agencies, which places Gurit in the top 5% of all EcoVadis-rated companies. Gurit has earned an A rating from MSCI, who rates companies according to exposure to industry specific ESG risks and the ability to manage those risks relative to peers. This rating puts Gurit within the top tier of all rated companies in the specialty chemicals sector.

Read more in our Sustainability Report which is part of our integrated Annual Report. * Alternative GAAP measure: please refer to page 119 in the annual report Publications

The Gurit Annual Report 2024 is available online at www.gurit.com/investors/reports . The Sustainability Report 2024 is available as a part of the integrated Annual Report or as a separate document on the Gurit website at www.gurit.com/sustainability . Media and Analyst Conference

The results will be discussed at a joint media and analyst webcast on March 3, 2025, at 09:00 am CET.

The presentation will be held in English and can be accessed on the following URL: http://www.gurit.com/Investors/Webcasts . An archived version will later be made available on the same link. Roadshow

In the afternoon of March 3, 2025, the Group Management will be available to meet investors at a roadshow at the premises of Zurcher Kantonalbank in Zurich. Visit for more information: https://broker.zkb.ch/en/corporate-access/calendar/122615 . Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on April 15, 2025 The Annual General Meeting will be held on April 15, 2025, at 04:30 pm CET at SIX Convention Point, Zurich. The share register will close on Monday, March 17, 2025, at 05:00 pm CET. Contacts for shareholders to register their shares or for address changes: share.register@computershare.ch . The strategic realignment, along with the associated restructuring measures, did impact financial results 2024. Given these circumstances, the Board of Directors recommends to the AGM not to pay out a dividend in 2025 and to use the funds to further reduce the debt level of the company. The Board will reconsider the reinstatement of the dividend when it is deemed prudent. The full invitation to the AGM including all motions proposed by the Board of Directors will be available for download at least 20 days prior to the AGM at: https://www.gurit.com/agm-shareholders/ . About Gurit

The subsidiaries of Gurit Holding AG, Wattwil/Switzerland, (SIX Swiss Exchange: GURN) are specialized in the development and manufacture of advanced composite materials, composite tooling equipment and core kitting services. The product range comprises structural core materials, structural profiles, prepregs, formulated products such as adhesives and resins as well as structural composite engineering. Gurit supplies global growth markets such as the wind turbine industry, marine, building and many more. Gurit operates production sites and offices in Australia, Canada, China, Denmark, Ecuador, India, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Poland, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States.

www.gurit.com Gurit Group Communications Phone: +41 44 316 15 50, e-mail: investor (at) gurit.com All trademarks used or mentioned in this release are protected by law. Forward-looking statements:

To the extent that this announcement contains forward-looking statements, such statements are based on assumptions, planning and forecasts at the time of publication of this announcement. Forward-looking statements always involve uncertainties. Business and economic risks and developments, the conduct of competitors, political decisions and other factors may cause the actual results to be materially different from the assumptions, planning and forecasts at the time of publication of this announcement. Therefore, Gurit Holding AG does not assume any responsibility relating to forward-looking statements contained in this announcement.

End of Inside Information


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Cryptocurrencies languished in the red zone despite the much-awaited decision on a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve in the U.S. Cryptocurrencies have shed close to 3 percent in the past 24 hours as lingering anxiety ahead of the release of the crucial non-farm payrolls data from the U.S. added to the disappointment surrounding the creation of a Bitcoin Reserve.



President Donald J. Trump on Thursday signed an Executive Order to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile.



The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve would be capitalized with Bitcoin owned by the Department of Treasury that was forfeited as part of criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings. Other agencies would evaluate their legal authority to transfer any Bitcoin owned to the said Reserve. The U.S. would treat Bitcoin as a reserve asset and would not sell Bitcoin deposited into this Reserve. The order also authorizes the Secretaries of Treasury and Commerce to develop budget-neutral strategies for acquiring additional Bitcoin, provided it imposes no incremental costs on American taxpayers.



The Presidential Order also established a U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile, consisting of digital assets other than Bitcoin owned by the Department of Treasury that was forfeited in criminal or civil asset forfeiture proceedings. However, the government would not acquire additional assets for the U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile beyond those obtained through forfeiture proceedings. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized to determine strategies for responsible stewardship, including potential sales from the U.S. Digital Asset Stockpile.



The development assumes significance ahead of the first-ever crypto summit at the White House, scheduled for Friday. However, markets had anticipated more in a Bitcoin Reserve and are apparently disappointed at the absence of outright government purchases for the Reserve.



At a macro level, market spotlight has turned on the Fed's monetary policy outlook, its mandates of price stability and maximum employment as well as the risks to these. With trade tariff uncertainty seen impacting price pressures and federal government job cuts clouding the labor market outlook, all eyes are now on the monthly jobs data for February.



The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is expected to reveal on Friday morning, an addition of 160 thousand to non-farm payrolls in the month of February, a surge from the 143 thousand recorded in the previous month. The unemployment rate is however expected to remain steady at 4 percent. The average hourly earnings on a month-on-month basis are expected to decline to 0.3 percent from 0.5 percent in the previous month. On a year-on-year basis, the average hourly earnings are seen steady at 4.1 percent.



Weekly data released by the U.S. Department of Labor on Thursday had showed initial jobless claims for the week ended March 1 decreasing to 221 thousand from 242 thousand in the previous week. Markets had expected it to drop to 235 thousand only. The four-week moving average for initial claims, which smoothens any week-to-week volatility however increased to 224.25 thousand from 224 thousand in the previous week.



Even as markets digested the news of the creation of a Bitcoin Reserve and waited anxiously for the payrolls data, overall crypto market capitalization declined to $2.93 trillion implying an overnight loss of 2.96 percent. More than 65 percent of the top 100 cryptocurrencies are trading with overnight losses of more than a percent.



Bearish sentiment towards cryptocurrencies reverberated in the ETF markets also. Outflows from Bitcoin-based ETF products in the U.S. recorded $134 million on Thursday. Ethereum-based ETF products also witnessed outflows of $10 million on the same day.



Bitcoin (BTC) that dominates 60.5 percent of the overall crypto market shed more than 2 percent overnight to trade at $89,172.27. It is currently trading 18 percent below the all-time-high at $109,114.88 recorded on January 20. The original cryptocurrency traded between $91,564.82 and $84,717.68 during the past 24 hours. Despite weekly gains of 11.2 percent, the leading cryptocurrency is trading with losses of 8.8 percent over the 30-day horizon and 4.5 percent on a year-to-date basis.



Ethereum's losses are higher at 3.8 percent in the past 24 hours. Despite weekly gains of 3.6 percent, the leading alternate coin has shed 21 percent over the past 30 days and 34 percent till date in 2025. Ether's current trading price of $2,198.04 is 55 percent below its all-time-high. The most valued alternate coin that dominates 9.04 percent of the overall crypto market ranged between $2,300.51 and $2,103.47 in the past 24 hours.



3rd ranked XRP (XRP) slipped 3.2 percent overnight to trade at $2.54, around 34 percent below the all-time high touched in January 2018. The cryptocurrency has however surged 25 percent in the past week.



5th ranked BNB (BNB) edged down 0.08 percent overnight at its current trading price of $601.92. BNB is currently trading 24 percent below the all-time high touched on December 4, 2024. Despite weekly gains that exceed 5 percent, the cryptocurrency has lost more than 14 percent till date in 2025.



The price of 6th ranked Solana (SOL) dropped 5.2 percent overnight. With weekly gains of 9.8 percent, SOL is currently trading at $143.82, around 51 percent below its record high on November 23, 2024.



8th ranked Cardano (ADA) tumbled 7.9 percent overnight to trade at $0.8821. ADA is currently trading 72 percent below the record high touched in September 2021.



9th ranked Dogecoin (DOGE) slipped almost 3 percent overnight to trade at $0.2040. Having gained more than 10 percent in the past week, DOGE is trading 72 percent below the previous peak scaled in May 2021.



10th ranked TRON (TRX) edged down 0.3 percent overnight to trade at $0.2420. TRX has gained 7.8 percent in the past week. The trading price is 45 percent below the cryptocurrency's all-time high recorded on December 4, 2024.



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 2025 AFX News
Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd ("SXGC", "SX2" or the "Company") (TSXV:SXGC)(ASX:SX2)(OTCPK:MWSNF)(FRA:MV3.F) announces a doubling of the Sunday Creek gold and antimony Exploration Target in Victoria, Australia (Figures 1 and 2).

HIGHLIGHTS

The estimated range of potential mineralization for the Exploration Target is (also see Tables 1 and 2):

The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Target is conceptual in nature and therefore is an approximation. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the estimation of a Mineral Resource. The Exploration Target has been completed in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 2012 Edition ("JORC").

Drilling operations at Sunday Creek continue with six active rigs, and expansion is imminent as two additional drill rigs are scheduled to join the project-one in late March and another in early April. 2025-to accelerate exploration along strike and at deeper depths.

The 2025 Exploration Target demonstrates strong growth compared to the 2024 Exploration Target reported January 23, 2024, with tonnage increasing by up to 88% , grades improving by up to 15% , and total contained AuEq metal growing by up to 120% . The project's spatial coverage has expanded significantly, now covering 67% of the 1.5 km main drill footprint , while technical improvements include a 40% increase in drill holes, nearly double the assay results , more than tripled density measurements, and deeper mineralization reaching 1,120 m below surface . These comprehensive advancements underscore the project's expanding scale while maintaining its exceptional high-grade characteristics.

Notably, the Exploration Target is constrained to three of the four main areas along the strike of the dyke breccia host on the project: Rising Sun (over 340 m strike), Apollo (over 280 m strike) and Golden Dyke (over 400 m strike) for a total 1,020 m of strike. This does not include the recently drilled high grade Christina mineralization and strike represents approximately 67% of the 1.5 km strike of the main drill footprint to date at Sunday Creek.

Michael Hudson, President & CEO of SXGC states: "Sunday Creek continues to demonstrate why it is one of the most significant high-grade gold-antimony discoveries made in recent times. The dramatic expansion of Sunday Creek's exploration target - doubling in both tonnage and contained metal while maintaining exceptional grades over the last year - while only representing 67% of the drilled area, represents another key milestone for Sunday Creek.

"In the last year we have grown our exploration target from 1.0 to 1.6 Moz AuEq to 2.2 to 3.2 Moz AuEq, while maintaining exceptional grades ranging from 8.3 to 10.6 g/t AuEq. This represents significant growth across all metrics, with tonnage increasing by 84 to 88%, grades improving by 9 to 15%, and total contained gold equivalent ounces growing by 100 to 120%. This constitutes an addition of 1.2 to 1.6 Moz AuEq to our target through both tonnage expansion and improved grades, particularly at Rising Sun where we're seeing consistently higher grade results at depth. Most significantly, this target captures only 67% of the main 1.5 km drill footprint, suggesting substantial upside remains both within and outside of the drilled footprint.

"The target demonstrates Sunday Creek's exceptional high grades that place it in the highest global quartile offering substantially high margin potential. The project benefits from its location in a Tier 1 jurisdiction with excellent infrastructure with direct road access, nearby power, and no need for remote camps or extensive diesel transport.

"Our metallurgical testing demonstrates excellent gold and antimony recoveries (93 to 98%), with non-refractory mineralization suitable for conventional processing. The gold-antimony system shows remarkable continuity from surface to 1,120 m depth, with evidence from nearby mines suggesting potential for even higher grades below our current exploration depth, presenting significant upside for future exploration, while the strategic antimony content (contributing 21 to 24% of in-situ value) takes on heightened importance given China's recent export restrictions and Western nations' push for secure critical mineral supply chains.

"Environmental baseline studies are progressing concurrently with drilling, and successful regional exploration results could potentially expand our overall resource footprint beyond the current Sunday Creek focus."

EXPLORATION TARGET

The approximate combined Exploration Target ranges are listed in Table 1, while Table 2 provides a summary of the Exploration Targets for each prospect. Locations shown in Figures 1 and 2.

Table 1. Sunday Creek Exploration Target for Apollo, Rising Sun, Golden Dyke at the Sunday Creek Project

Range Tonnes (Mt) AuEq g/t* Au g/t Sb % Au Eq (Moz) Au (Moz) Sb (kt) Lower Case 8.1 8.3 6.4 0.8 2.2 1.7 66.6 Upper Case 9.6 10.6 8.3 0.9 3.2 2.6 88.2

Table 2. Exploration Targets for Rising Sun, Apollo and Golden Dyke prospects at the Sunday Creek Project

Prospect Tonnes Range (Mt) AuEq Grade Range (g/t) Au Grade Range (g/t) Sb Grade Range (%) Contained AuEq (Moz) Contained Au (Moz) Contained Sb (Kt) Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Rising Sun 3.1 3.8 11.3 16.1 9.3 13.7 0.8 1.0 1.1 2 0.9 1.7 25.4 38.3 Apollo 3.2 3.6 5.9 6.4 4.2 4.5 0.7 0.8 0.6 0.7 0.4 0.5 23.1 28.6 Golden Dyke 1.8 2.1 7.6 7.6 5.2 5.2 1.0 1.0 0.4 0.5 0.3 0.4 18.1 21.4 Total 8.1 9.6 8.3 10.6 6.4 8.3 0.8 0.9 2.2 3.2 1.7 2.6 66.6 88.2

The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Target is conceptual in nature and therefore is an approximation. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the estimation of a Mineral Resource. The Exploration Target has been completed in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 2012 Edition ("JORC").

EXPLORATION TARGET UPSIDE

The Sunday Creek Project continues to demonstrate significant upside potential well beyond its recently expanded exploration target area. The project combines high-grade mineralization with multiple high-grade zones drilled that remain outside the current target area.

The Exploration Target covers 67% of the strike of the core 1.5 km main drill area. The other portion of the main drill area has not been drilled to the intensity required to include in this Exploration Target, highlighting the potential to further increase the overall gold-antimony endowment of the Sunday Creek gold-antimony project. Drilled areas not yet included in the Exploration Target include:

Geographic/Spatial Upside:

1. Christina Zone

Shows system capable of bonanza grades 400 m west of the current Exploration Target, including: SDDSC148: 0.5 m @ 76.1 g/t AuEq (76.0 g/t Au, 0.1% Sb) from 252.6 m SDDSC137W2: 1.7 m @ 300.2 g/t AuEq (296.2 g/t Au, 1.7% Sb) from 208.2 m SDDSC137W2: 11.9 m @ 2.1 g/t AuEq (0.9 g/t Au, 0.5% Sb) from 166.9 m SDDSC150: 1.7 m @ 204.3 g/t AuEq (204.1 g/t Au, 0.1% Sb) from 570.8 m SDDSC150: 0.7 m @ 137.7 g/t AuEq (137.7 g/t Au, 0.0% Sb) from 591.3 m

Multiple high-grade intersections suggest mineralization is of a similar style to Apollo and Rising Sun

2. Rising Sun Extensions

Unconstrained drill results not yet included in the Exploration Target within the footprint of Rising Sun including: SDDSC144: 0.7 m @ 193.6 g/t AuEq (193.4 g/t Au, 0.1% Sb) from 609.3 m SDDSC061: 6.1 m @ 19.0 g/t AuEq (19.0 g/t Au, 0.0% Sb) from 689.0 m

Demonstrate high grades continue with depth

3. Apollo East

High antimony grades (up to 10.9% Sb) showing metal zoning potential up to 100 m above and east of the exploration target, with drill results including: SDDSC112: 0.9 m @ 42.8 g/t AuEq (16.7 g/t Au, 10.9% Sb) from 273.2 m



4. Regional Scale

The Sunday Creek mineralized system extends far beyond the current drill area, with compelling evidence for a 12 km strike length of prospective geology. The mineralizing system is defined by multiple parallel dyke-breccia structures and extensive zones of altered sediments, all following a consistent east-west trend. This structural framework has been validated by a network of historic mine workings and documented gold-antimony production from multiple locations along the trend.

Modern technical work has further confirmed this potential through multiple independent datasets: Strong Induced Polarization (IP) geophysical anomalies align with systematic soil geochemistry anomalies and detailed geological mapping, all confirming the continuity of the mineralized system.

Early stage drilling by SXGC includes the Leviathan prospect 3 km east showing gold mineralization, including: SDDLV003: 0.5 m @ 15.7 g/t Au from 87.0 m SDDLV004: 0.3 m @ 5.6 g/t Au from 73.4 m and 0.3 m @ 19.4 g/t Au from 100.7 m



5. Depth Potential

Mineralization proven to >1,120m depth

System remains open at depth, where surrounding mines have proved mineralization down to 2 km below surface

Deep drill holes showing continuation of high grades

6. Grade Upside

Potential for additional high-grade domain definition: for example, no high-grade domains have been wireframed at Golden Dyke to date

High-grade shoots remaining open

Rising Sun showing highest grades to date

COMPARISON 2024-2025 EXPLORATION TARGETS: SIGNIFICANT GROWTH

Substantial growth was recorded in this updated 2025 Exploration Target based on a very successful year of drilling, which shows strong improvement across all key metrics, highlighting the project's expanding scale and continuing high-grade nature. Figure 4 shows a longitudinal section of the main drill area over time, with the 2024 Exploration target and the current updated exploration target outline highlighting the rapid exploration success over the last few years.

In the prior update released on January 23, 2024, the Company reported an Exploration Target with estimated potential mineralization ranging from 4.4 Mt @ 7.2 g/t AuEq (1.0 Moz AuEq) in the Lower Case to 5.1 Mt @ 9.7 g/t AuEq (1.6 Moz AuEq) in the Upper Case.

The new March 02, 2025 Exploration Target demonstrates significant growth with estimated potential mineralization now ranging from:

Lower Case: 8.1 Mt @ 8.3 g/t AuEq (2.2 Moz AuEq)

Upper Case: 9.6 Mt @ 10.6 g/t AuEq (3.2 Moz AuEq)

The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Target is conceptual in nature and therefore is an approximation. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the estimation of a Mineral Resource. The Exploration Target has been completed in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 2012 Edition ("JORC").

Key Improvements from 2024 to 2025 (lower to upper case)

Tonnage Growth: 84 to 88% increase

AuEq Grade Improvement: 9 to 15% increase

Contained AuEq Metal: 100 to 120% increase (gold 103 to 1030%, antimony 24 to 40%)

Spatial Expansion

2024: Covered 50% of the 1.2 km main drill footprint (620 m)

2025: Covers 67% of the 1.5 km main drill footprint (1,020 m)

Technical Advancements

Increased drill density (from 116 holes to 162 holes)

More assay results (from 26,513 to 49,595)

Better density measurements (from 353 to 1,169)

Deeper mineralization (deepest from 1,003 m to 1,120 m below surface)

SUMMARY OF RELEVANT EXPLORATION DATA, METHODOLOGY, ASSUMPTIONS AND NEXT STEPS

The basis on which the disclosed potential quantity and grade has been determined based on continuity of mineralization defined by exploration diamond drilling results (previously reported, including relevant sections and plans) within proximity to the intrusive "main structure" zone and bleached sediments. Strike extents in the lower-case model are minimized to half drill spacing (~15 m) or to locally restrictive geology (i.e. bounds of bleached sediment or dyke) whichever was smaller. The upper-case model strike extents were extended to the average vein strike (typically around ~40 m) or to geological constraints, whichever was smaller.

The Exploration Target was limited to a vertical depth of 1,120 m below surface (-835 m RL), limited by the deepest mineralization defined to date within the "main structure" dyke/dyke breccia and bleached sediments within Rising Sun.

A series of sub-vertical lodes within a 1,020 m-wide corridor has been outlined at Rising Sun, Apollo and Golden Dyke with mineralization remaining open to the east, west and to depth.

Only the Rising Sun, Apollo and Golden Dyke areas were considered for the Exploration Target as they contain sufficient drilling to suggest continuity and infer grade ranges, but insufficient drill spacing to convert the entire area into a mineral resource estimate. The Exploration Target is based on the interpretation of the following geology and mineralization data that has been collated as of the date of this announcement:

162 structurally oriented drillholes for 73,299.16 m at the main Sunday Creek area that have been drilled by Mawson/SXGC;

64 aircore, reverse circulation and unoriented diamond drill holes for 5,599 m that were drilled historically on the project;

49,595 drill hole assay results;

1,169 density measurements on mineralized diamond drill core, a variable SG was calculated using the average of rock types and a regression calculation dependent on the content of antimony, where Sb% >1 used an SG value of 0.0197 x Sb% + 2.77, and if below 1% Sb a value of 2.77 was applied to the Exploration Target.

Surface geological mapping, costean data and diamond core geological logging;

Detailed LiDAR imagery;

Geophysical datasets including detailed ground magnetic and 3D induced polarization;

Wireframing and modelling of the Apollo, Rising Sun and Golden Dyke mineralized body.

A total of 85 mineralized vein set shapes were created for the Exploration Target of 18 contained high-grade internal shapes (at Rising Sun and Apollo, but not Golden Dyke due to the lack of drill data) were defined (Table 3 & Table 4). A total of 70 of the vein set shapes had grades estimated from composited assay data, while 15 vein set shapes used the average calculated grade of either Rising Sun (lower case 7.8 g/t Au and 0.8% Sb and upper case 11.5 g/t Au and 1.0% Sb), Apollo (lower case 3.8 g/t Au and 0.7% Sb and upper case 4.1 g/t Au and 0.7% Sb) or Golden Dyke (lower and upper case 5.6 g/t Au, 1.0% Sb) and this was applied to the Exploration Target. Drilling indicates Rising Sun could contain higher gold and antimony grades than Apollo and Apollo Deep, with Golden Dyke not yet being tested to depth to determine the propensity of higher grades.

Mineralization across all vein sets was limited by the deepest mineralization defined to date, within the "main structure" dyke/dyke breccia and bleached sediments within Rising Sun approximately 1,120 m below surface. While at Apollo the Exploration Target extended from surface to where drill density decreases, 900 m below surface.

Below drilling intercepts to the lower estimation limit, the low tonnage range used a minimum width of 2 m (~75% of median estimated true width of all modelled domains) while the high tonnage range applied a minimum width of 2.5 m (approximate median true width of all modelled domains). Strike extents in the low tonnage range model were minimized to half drill spacing (~15 m) or to locally restrictive geology (i.e. bounds of altered sediment (ASED) or dyke) whichever was smaller. The high tonnage range model applied strike extents that were extended to the average vein strike (typically around ~40 m) or to geological constraints, whichever was smaller.

Wireframes have been created in Leapfrog Geo using a threshold of 1.0 g/t Au over 2 m. The economic composite tool was used to allow for the inclusion of thin, high-grade intercepts. Grade ranges have been informed by a preliminary grade estimate conducted on top-cut, composited data using Leapfrog Edge.

Grade estimates were calculated using a post composite top-cut of 80 g/t Au for vein sets in Apollo, Rising Sun and Golden Dyke. The high-grade sub domains had a range restriction of 15% applied (~10 to 15 m) and then a top-cut of 300 g/t Au for Apollo and 400 g/t Au for Rising Sun.

The high- and low-grade ranges are primarily influenced by the proportion of high-grade subdomains ("high-grade cores") within the Rising Sun and Apollo estimates. The low-end grade range assumes the existing ratio of high-grade cores to vein set material - approximately 2% of the exploration shape volume - while the high-end grade range applies a higher ratio of ~4%. This variation reflects the exclusion or inclusion of a distinct high-grade population observed across multiple veins. As additional drilling improves confidence in subdomaining, these high-grade zones may be more precisely delineated and estimated separately.

For the low-range domains, Rising Sun contributes 38% of the tonnes and 55% of the contained ounces, Apollo contributes 40% of the tonnes and 26% of the contained ounces and Golden Dyke contributes 22% of the tonnes and 18% of the contained ounces.

For the high-range domains, Rising Sun contributes 40% of the tonnes and 66% of the contained ounces, Apollo contributes 38% of the tonnes and 21% of the contained ounces and Golden Dyke contributes 22% of the tonnes and 13% of the contained ounces.

Significant upside also remains within the tenor potential of all the prospects when further high-grade domains can be recognized and separated to maintain the high-grade nature of the veins i.e. top cuts can be raised with further data.

Antimony content contributes between 24% (Low-Range) and 21% (High-Range) of the AuEq ounces at an AuEq factor of 2.39.

Notably, the Exploration Target is constrained to three of the four main areas along the strike of the dyke breccia host on the project: Rising Sun (over 340 m strike), Apollo (over 280 m strike) and Golden Dyke (over 400 m strike) for a total 1,020 m of strike. This strike represents approximately 67% of the 1.5 km strike of the main drill footprint to date at Sunday Creek.

Figure 3 illustrates how gold grade capping (top-cuts or "TC") affects both the average grade of composites in the Exploration Target and the statistical reliability of these sample populations. Lower coefficient of variation (CV) values-calculated as standard deviation divided over mean-indicate reduced geological risk through more consistent sample data.

The Sunday Creek project demonstrates favourable statistical characteristics across all zones:

Rising Sun: CV decreased from 1.8 (before top-cutting) to 1.35 (after top-cutting)

Apollo: CV reduced from 1.36 (before top-cutting) to 1.0 (after top-cutting)

Golden Dyke: CV remained stable at 1.0 (both before and after top-cutting)

Importantly, as drilling has progressed and high-grade core sub-domains have been identified, Sunday Creek has shown consistent decreases in CV values both before and after applying top-cuts, indicating improving data reliability and reduced uncertainty.

The estimated true widths of Rising Sun, Apollo, and Golden Dyke are relatively consistent across all prospects. Apollo has the largest estimated true width, averaging 4.2 m (median 3.5 m), Rising Sun at 2.8 m (median 2.4 m), and Golden Dyke at 3.2 m (median 2.3 m). Within the centre of many vein sets high-grade cores show consistency, with Apollo averaging 0.5 m (median 0.4 m, maximum 1.3 m) and Rising Sun averaging 0.6 m (median 0.4 m, maximum 2.4 m).

TOWARDS A MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATE

The proposed exploration activities are designed to test the validity of the Exploration Target and to move from an Exploration Target to a Mineral Resource Estimate and will comprise the following activities;

Native Title Heritage Surveys

Heritage surveys required to gain access to the Exploration Target area have been completed in conjunction with the Taungurung Land and Waters Council who represent the Native Title holders, the Taungurung People.

Cultural Heritage Clearances

Heritage walkovers required to gain access to the Exploration Target area have been completed in conjunction with the Taungurung Land and Waters Council who represent the Native Title holders the Taungurung People.

Approvals

The majority of the Exploration Target is contained within a small crown land allotment. SXGC owns 1,054.51 hectares that fully encloses the crown land. Approvals required for exploration drilling to test the Exploration Target have all been obtained on all the crown land and on the freehold land.

Exploration Licences

The vast majority of the Exploration Target is located within granted Retention Licence RL6040 and surrounded by granted EL6163. No further Exploration Licences are required to be granted to test the Exploration Target.

Exploration Program

Expansion and resource definition drilling are continuing at the project with six diamond rigs operating to continue to extend mineralization drill-out within the Exploration Target and to upgrade the mineralization to Mineral Resource status and one rig focused on regional exploration targets. It is expected that these activities will be completed during the second half of 2026.

Metallurgical test work

SXGC has completed initial metallurgical test work on two drill holes from the Exploration Target area which were reported on 10 January 2024. Mineralogical investigations demonstrated a high proportion of non-refractory native gold (82% to 84%). Additionally, gravity and bulk flotation resulted in 93.3% to 97.6% recovery of gold. Flotation gave 88.9% to 95.0% recovery.

Mineral Resource Estimate

SRK Consulting (Australasia) Pty Ltd ("SRK") have been engaged to for ongoing modelling assistance and the eventual preparation of a Mineral Resource Estimate, consistent with the requirements of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 2012 Edition ("JORC").

ABOUT SUNDAY CREEK

The Sunday Creek epizonal-style gold project is located 60 km north of Melbourne within 19,365 hectares of granted exploration tenements.

History

The Sunday Creek deposit is a high level orogenic (or epizonal) deposit. Small scale mining has been undertaken in the project area since the 1880s continuing through to the early 1900s. Historical production occurred with multiple small shafts and alluvial workings across the existing permits. Past production at the Sunday Creek prospect is reported as 41,000 oz gold at a grade of 33 g/t gold. Larger historic workings along the trend from west to east include Christina, Golden Dyke, Rising Sun and Apollo.

Regional Geology

Sunday Creek occurs with the Melbourne Zone of the Lachlan Geosyncline, in sequences folded and thrust-faulted by the Late Devonian Tabberabberan Orogeny. The regional host to the Sunday Creek mineralization is an interbedded turbidite sequence of siltstones, mudstones, and minor sandstones, metamorphosed to sub-greenschist facies and folded into a set of open north-west trending synclines and anticlines.

Structural Setting and Local Geology

Intruded into the sedimentary sequence is a series of intermediate monzodiorite - diorite dykes and breccias on an east-west trend. The Sunday Creek dykes have highly variable textures and compositions with the earliest emplaced aphanitic varieties emplaced along thin fracture sets. These fine-grained dykes locally grade into porphyritic to massive varieties as the thickness of the dykes increases and brecciate in areas of complexity or in proximity to fold hinges.

Large scale thrusts sub-parallel to the NW trending structural grain, dislocate the dyke system and an array of sub-vertical extension veins form subparallel to the bedding trend and orthogonal to the intruded dyke sequence. Veining is focused within areas of high competency contrast, such as the intruded dyke and surrounding alteration, fold hinges and areas of structural complexity.

Alteration

Distally a regional chlorite alteration weakly pervades the sediments, with a change in mica composition from phengitic to muscovitic mica approaching mineralization, an increase in carbonate spotting and cementation and proximal to the dyke a very intense texturally destructive alteration of sericite-carbonate-silica "bleaching" of the sediments.

Mineralization & Structural Setting

Geological controls on mineralization (structural, chemical, stratigraphic) exist on every ore deposit and Sunday Creek is no different. Mineralization is structurally controlled, with increased mineralization associated within the "bleaching" around the intrusive sequence. Early alteration and sulphide (pyrite) mineralization has exploited the vesicular/amygdaloidal nature of the pervasively altered/mineralized dyke and the brecciated areas, or forms east-west trending pyrite veinlets.

Gold-antimony mineralization is dominantly hosted within zones of sub-vertical, brittle-ductile NW striking shear veins and associated veins, containing visible gold, quartz, stibnite, occasional fibrous sulphosalts and minor ferroan carbonates infill. The veins have an associated selvedge of disseminated sulphides in the form of arsenian pyrite, pyrite and arsenopyrite. Gold and antimony form in a relay of vein sets that cut across a steeply dipping zone of intensely altered rocks (the "host"). These vein sets are like a "Golden Ladder" structure where the main host extends between the side rails deep into the earth, with multiple cross-cutting vein sets that host the gold forming the rungs. At Rising Sun and Apollo these individual 'rungs' have been defined over 600 m depth extent from surface to over 1,100 m below surface, are 2.4 m to 3.8 m wide (median widths) (and up to 10 m), and 20 m to 100 m in strike.

Cumulatively, 162 drill holes for 73,299.16 m have been reported from Sunday Creek since late 2020. An additional 12 holes for 582.55 m from Sunday Creek were abandoned due to deviation or hole conditions. Fourteen drillholes for 2,383 m have been reported regionally outside of the main Sunday Creek drill area. A total of 64 historic drill holes for 5,599 m were completed from the late 1960s to 2008. The project now contains a total of sixty (60) >100 g/t AuEq x m and sixty-seven (67) >50 to 100 g/t AuEq x m drill holes by applying a 2 m @ 1 g/t AuEq lower cut.

Our systematic drill program is strategically targeting these significant vein formations, initially these have been defined over 1,500 m strike of the host from Christina to Apollo prospects, of which approximately 850 m has been more intensively drill tested (Golden Dyke to Apollo). At least 71 'rungs' have been defined with high confidence to date, defined by high-grade cores with intercepts (20 g/t to >7,330 g/t Au) along with lower grade edges. Ongoing step-out drilling is aiming to uncover the potential extent of this mineralized system (Figure 2, 5 & 6).

Further Information

Further discussion and analysis of the Sunday Creek project is available through the interactive Vrify 3D animations, presentations and videos all available on the SXGC website. These data, along with an interview on these results with President & CEO Michael Hudson can be viewed at www.southerncrossgold.com.

No upper gold grade cut is applied in the averaging and intervals are reported as drill thickness. However, during future Mineral Resource studies, the requirement for assay top cutting will be assessed, as it has been in the Exploration Target reported here. The Company notes that due to rounding of assay results to one significant figure, minor variations in calculated composite grades may occur.

Figures 1 to 6 show longitudinal and plan views with new exploration target and select drill results previously reported, geostatistical composites and coefficient of variation and regional project location. Table 1 and 2 contain the Exploration Target range for Sunday Creek and split by prospect and Table 3 and Table 4 summarise individual domains and grade parameters within the Exploration Target. Lower grades were cut at 1.0 g/t AuEq lower cutoff over a maximum width of 2 m with higher grades cut at 5.0 g/t AuEq lower cutoff over a maximum of 1 m width unless specified unless otherwise* specified to demonstrate higher grade assays.

Critical Metal Epizonal Gold-Antimony Deposits

Sunday Creek (Figure 6) is an epizonal gold-antimony deposit formed in the late Devonian (like Fosterville, Costerfield and Redcastle), 60 million years later than mesozonal gold systems formed in Victoria (for example Ballarat and Bendigo). Epizonal deposits are a form of orogenic gold deposit classified according to their depth of formation: epizonal (<6 km), mesozonal (6-12 km) and hypozonal (>12 km).

Epizonal deposits in Victoria often have associated high levels of the critical metal, antimony, and Sunday Creek is no exception. China claims a 56 per cent share of global mined supplies of antimony, according to a 2023 European Union study. Antimony features highly on the critical minerals lists of many countries including Australia, the United States of America, Canada, Japan and the European Union. Australia ranks seventh for antimony production despite all production coming from a single mine at Costerfield in Victoria, located nearby to all SXG projects. Antimony alloys with lead and tin which results in improved properties for solders, munitions, bearings and batteries. Antimony is a prominent additive for halogen-containing flame retardants. Adequate supplies of antimony are critical to the world's energy transition, and to the high-tech industry, especially the semi-conductor and defence sectors where it is a critical additive to primers in munitions.

In August 2024, the Chinese government announced it will place export limits from September 15, 2024 on antimony and antimony products. This puts pressure on Western defence supply chains and negatively affect the supply of the metal and push up pricing given China's dominance of the supply of the metal in the global markets. This is positive for SXGC as we are likely to have one of the very few large and high-quality projects of antimony in the western world that can feed western demand into the future.

Antimony represents approximately 21 to 24% in situ recoverable value of Sunday Creek at an AuEq of 2.39.

About Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd. (TSXV:SXGC) (ASX:SX2)

Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd is now dual listed on the TSXV: SXGC and ASX: SX2

Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd. (TSXV:SXGC, ASX:SX2) controls the Sunday Creek Gold-Antimony Project located 60 km north of Melbourne, Australia. Sunday Creek has emerged as one of the Western world's most significant gold and antimony discoveries, with exceptional drilling results including 60 intersections exceeding 100 g/t AuEq x m from just 73.3 km of drilling. The mineralization follows a "Golden Ladder" structure over 12 km of strike length, with confirmed continuity from surface to 1,100 m depth.

Sunday Creek's strategic value is enhanced by its dual-metal profile, with antimony contributing 21 to 24% of the in-situ value alongside gold. This has gained increased significance following China's export restrictions on antimony, a critical metal for defence and semiconductor applications. Southern Cross' inclusion in the US Defense Industrial Base Consortium (DIBC) and Australia's AUKUS-related legislative changes position it as a potential key Western antimony supplier. Importantly, Sunday Creek can be developed primarily based on gold economics, which reduces antimony-related risks while maintaining strategic supply potential.

Technical fundamentals further strengthen the investment case, with preliminary metallurgical work showing non-refractory mineralization suitable for conventional processing and gold recoveries of 93 to 98% through gravity and flotation.

With A$18M in cash, over 1,000 Ha of strategic freehold land ownership, and a large 60 km drill program planned through Q3 2025, SXGC is well-positioned to advance this globally significant gold-antimony discovery in a tier-one jurisdiction.

NI 43-101 Technical Background and Qualified Person

Michael Hudson, President and CEO and Managing Director of SXGC, and a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, and Mr Kenneth Bush, Exploration Manager of SXGC and a Member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists, are the Qualified Persons as defined by the NI 43-101. They have reviewed, verified and approved the technical contents of this release.

Analytical samples are transported to the Bendigo facility of On Site Laboratory Services ("On Site") which operates under both an ISO 9001 and NATA quality systems. Samples were prepared and analyzed for gold using the fire assay technique (PE01S method; 25 g charge), followed by measuring the gold in solution with flame AAS equipment. Samples for multi-element analysis (BM011 and over-range methods as required) use aqua regia digestion and ICP-MS analysis. The QA/QC program of SXGC consists of the systematic insertion of certified standards of known gold and antimony content, blanks within interpreted mineralized rock and quarter core duplicates. In addition, On Site inserts blanks and standards into the analytical process.

SXGC considers that both gold and antimony that are included in the gold equivalent calculation ("AuEq") have reasonable potential to be recovered at Sunday Creek, given current geochemical understanding, historic production statistics and geologically analogous mining operations. Historically, ore from Sunday Creek was treated onsite or shipped to the Costerfield mine, located 54 km to the northwest of the project, for processing during WW1. The Costerfield mine corridor, now owned by Mandalay Resources Ltd contains two million ounces of equivalent gold (Mandalay Q3 2021 Results), and in 2020 was the sixth highest-grade global underground mine and a top 5 global producer of antimony.

SXGC considers that it is appropriate to adopt the same gold equivalent variables as Mandalay Resources Ltd in its 2024 End of Year Mineral Reserves and Resources Press Release, dated February 20, 2025. The gold equivalence formula used by Mandalay Resources was calculated using Costerfield's 2024 production costs, using a gold price of US$2,500 per ounce, an antimony price of US$19,000 per tonne and 2024 total year metal recoveries of 91% for gold and 92% for antimony, and is as follows:

???????? = ???? (??/??) + 2.39  ???? (%).

Based on the latest Costerfield calculation and given the similar geological styles and historic toll treatment of Sunday Creek mineralization at Costerfield, SXGC considers that a ???????? = ???? (??/??) + 2.39  ???? (%) is appropriate to use for the initial exploration targeting of gold-antimony mineralization at Sunday Creek.

JORC Competent Person Statement

Information in this report that relates to the Exploration Target for the Sunday Creek Project is based on information compiled by Mr Kenneth Bush and Mr Michael Hudson. Mr Bush is a Member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Mr Hudson is a Fellow of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Bush and Mr Hudson each have sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration, and to the activities undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Bush is Exploration Manager and Mr Hudson is President & CEO of Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Limited and both consent to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on their information in the form and context in which it appears.

Information in this announcement that relates to new exploration results contained in this report is based on information compiled by Mr Kenneth Bush and Mr Michael Hudson. Mr Bush is a Member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists and a Registered Professional Geologist and Member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy and Mr Hudson is a Fellow of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. Mr Bush and Mr Hudson each have sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration, and to the activities undertaken, to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the Joint Ore Reserves Committee (JORC) Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves. Mr Bush is Exploration Manager and Mr Hudson is President & CEO of Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Limited and both consent to the inclusion in the report of the matters based on their information in the form and context in which it appears.

Certain information in this announcement that relates to prior exploration results is extracted from the Independent Geologist's Report dated 11 December 2024 which was issued with the consent of the Competent Person, Mr Steven Tambanis. The report is included the Company's prospectus dated 11 December 2024 and is available at www2.asx.com.au under code "SX2". The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information related to exploration results included in the original market announcement. The Company confirms that the form and context of the Competent Persons' findings in relation to the report have not been materially modified from the original market announcement.

The Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original document/announcement and the Company confirms that the form and context in which the Competent Person's findings are presented have not materially modified from the original market announcement.

- Ends -

This announcement has been approved for release by the Board of Southern Cross Gold Consolidated Ltd.

For further information, please contact:

Mariana Bermudez - Corporate Secretary - Canada

mbermudez@chasemgt.com or +1 604 685 9316

Executive Office: 1305 - 1090 West Georgia Street Vancouver, BC, V6E 3V7, Canada

Nicholas Mead - Corporate Development

info@southerncrossgold.com or +61 415 153 122

Justin Mouchacca, Company Secretary - Australia

jm@southerncrossgold.com.au or +61 3 8630 3321

Subsidiary Office: Level 21, 459 Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000, Australia

Forward-Looking Statement

This news release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions and accordingly, actual results and future events could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. You are hence cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of present or historical fact are forward-looking statements including without limitation applicable court, regulatory authorities and applicable stock exchanges. Forward-looking statements include words or expressions such as "proposed", "will", "subject to", "near future", "in the event", "would", "expect", "prepared to" and other similar words or expressions. Factors that could cause future results or events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements include general business, economic, competitive, political, social uncertainties; the state of capital markets, unforeseen events, developments, or factors causing any of the expectations, assumptions, and other factors ultimately being inaccurate or irrelevant; and other risks described in SXGC's documents filed with Canadian or Australian securities regulatory authorities (under code SX2). You can find further information with respect to these and other risks in filings made by SXGC with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada or Australia (under code SX2), as applicable, and available for SXGC in Canada at www.sedarplus.ca or in Australia at www.asx.com.au under code SX2. Documents are also available at www.southerncrossgold.com We disclaim any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) or the Australian Securities Exchange accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. (TSXV: ELE) (OTCQX: ELEMF) ("Elemental Altus" or the "Company") forecasts record Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") and adjusted revenue for 2025, with an expected 50% increase in adjusted revenue to US$32 million at the mid-point of guidance. This comes after the Company delivered record preliminary annual revenue and preliminary adjusted revenue of approximately US$16.3 million and US$21.6 million respectively for 2024. 2024 preliminary adjusted revenue marks a 21% increase from 2023 and underscores the Company's achievement of seven consecutive years of record revenue.

Adjusted revenue guidance for 2025 does not include up to US$15 million in additional payments expected from royalty milestones, buybacks and previous agreements.

In addition, the Company announces the appointment of Sandeep Singh to the board as an independent non-executive director.

Preliminary 2024 Results

Record preliminary adjusted 2024 revenue of US$21.6 million (+21% vs 2023) comprised of: US$16.3 million attributable royalty revenue; and US$5.3 million attributable revenue 1 from the Caserones copper mine

Record preliminary adjusted Q4 revenue of US$6.8 million (+21% vs Q4 2023) comprised of: US$5.5 million attributable royalty revenue; and US$1.3 million attributable revenue 1 from the Caserones copper mine

Preliminary adjusted 2024 revenue is based on sales volume of approximately 8,990 attributable GEOs, at the low end of the Company's updated guidance due to outperformance of the gold price relative to copper and delayed copper concentrate shipments from Caserones that are expected to be reflected in Q1 2025

2025 Outlook

Elemental Altus expects a record 11,600 - 13,200 GEOs in 2025, translating to record adjusted revenue of US$30.1 million to US$34.3 million, based on a gold price of US$2,600/oz and a copper price of US$4.00/lb

This represents a 50% year-on-year increase in adjusted revenue at the mid-point of guidance

Production is anticipated to be weighted towards the first half of the year, driven by first gold sales at the Korali-Sud royalty and Caserones shipments delayed from Q4 2024 into Q1 2025

Up to US$15 million in one-off payments, with over US$10 million expected in the first half of the year

2025 guidance is based on public forecasts from operators and the Company's internal assessments

Frederick Bell, CEO of Elemental Altus, commented:

"We are pleased to announce another record year for Elemental Altus, with preliminary adjusted revenue reaching US$21.6 million in 2024 - marking our seventh consecutive year of revenue growth. This 21% increase over 2023 was achieved despite maiden revenue from the Korali-Sud royalty shifting into Q1 2025.

Looking ahead, the Company is now debt-free, having repaid US$30 million over the past twelve months. With lower costs driving significant margin expansion and record adjusted revenue, Elemental Altus is well-positioned for continued growth. The Company also stands to benefit from up to US$15 million in additional portfolio payments and has access to an enhanced US$50 million credit facility, providing the strongest balance sheet in the Company's history."

Director Appointment

Elemental Altus is pleased to welcome Sandeep Singh to the Board effective immediately. Mr. Singh brings extensive experience in the mining and royalty sector, including his tenure as President and CEO of Osisko Gold Royalties, where he successfully led its strategic turnaround. His expertise and familiarity with the royalty space and mining capital markets will be strong assets to the Company going forwards.

Robert Milroy has stepped down from the Board of Directors effective today, as previously announced. The Company extends its gratitude to Mr. Milroy for his valuable contributions over many years with the Company.

John Robins, Chair of the Board, commented:

"We are delighted to welcome someone of Sandeep's calibre and experience to the Board. His extensive experience across the mining sector and royalty space will be invaluable as we look to the next stage of the Company's growth. I would also like to thank Robert for his significant contributions over many years in getting the Company to this stage and we wish him all the best in retirement."

Sandeep Singh

Sandeep Singh is currently President and CEO of Western Copper and Gold. Prior to this, he was President and CEO of Osisko Gold Royalties and spent 15 years as an investment banker specializing in the North American metals and mining sector. He has advised numerous mining companies on financing alternatives and strategic matters and has been involved in some of the most complex and value-enhancing M&A transactions in the sector. Mr. Singh holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree from Concordia University and an MBA from Oxford University.

Options and RSU Grant

The Company has granted 570,000 restricted share units (each "RSU") and 4,455,866 stock options to directors, officers, employees, and consultants of the Company. The RSUs vest in equal instalments over twelve, twenty-four, and thirty-six months. Each vested RSU will entitle the holder to receive one common share in the capital of the Company or the equivalent cash value thereof at the deemed price of C$1.22 per common share of the Company. The RSUs were granted on February 27, 2025 and will fully vest on February 27, 2028. The stock options are exercisable for a period of 5 years from the date of the grant at an exercise price of C$1.26 per Common Share. The stock options vest in four equal instalments on the date of grant, and on the 6 month, 12 month, and 18 month anniversary thereof. The stock options were granted on February 27, 2025 and will expire on February 27, 2030.

The stock options have been granted to directors, officers, employees, and consultants of the Company under the terms of the Company's stock option and compensation share plan and are subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

TSXV: ELE | OTCQX: ELEMF | ISIN: CA28619K1093 | CUSIP: 28619K109

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. The appointment of the new director to the Board is subject to the approval of the TSX-V.

About Elemental Altus Royalties Corp.

Elemental Altus is an income generating precious metals royalty company with 10 producing royalties and a diversified portfolio of pre-production and discovery stage assets. The Company is focused on acquiring uncapped royalties and streams over producing, or near-producing, mines operated by established counterparties. The vision of Elemental Altus is to build a global gold royalty company, offering investors superior exposure to gold with reduced risk and a strong growth profile.

Qualified Person

Richard Evans, FAusIMM, is Senior Vice President Technical for Elemental Altus, and a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release.

Notes

1) Royalty revenue is received at zero cost. Distributions from associates related to Elemental Altus' effective royalty on Caserones are received net of Chilean taxes and have no other costs.

The preliminary adjusted revenue is based on sales volume of approximately 8,990 attributable GEOs from royalty contracts in 2024. This is in line with the lower end of the Company's guidance of 9,000 - 9,500 GEOs. GEO numbers were impacted by significant outperformance of the gold price relative to copper-based revenue, and delayed Caserones copper shipments which are expected to be realised in Q1 2025. These unaudited results should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, as and when released.

1. Non-IFRS Measures

The Company has included certain performance measures which are non-IFRS and are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These non-IFRS measures do not have any standard meaning under IFRS and other companies may calculate measures differently.

Adjusted Revenue

Adjusted revenue is a non-IFRS financial measure, which is defined as including gross royalty revenue from associated entities holding royalty interests related to Elemental Altus' effective royalty on the Caserones copper mine. Management uses adjusted revenue to evaluate the underlying operating performance of the Company for the reporting periods presented, to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating results, and to supplement information in its financial statements. Management believes that in addition to measures prepared in accordance with IFRS such as revenue, investors may use adjusted revenue to evaluate the results of the underlying business, particularly as the adjusted revenue may not typically be included in operating results. Management believes that adjusted revenue is a useful measure of the Company performance because it adjusts for items which management believes reflect the Company's core operating results from period to period. Adjusted revenue is intended to provide additional information to investors and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. It does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

Gold Equivalent Ounces

Elemental Altus' adjusted royalty, streaming, and other revenue is converted to an attributable gold equivalent ounce, or GEO, basis by dividing the royalty and other revenue from associates in a period by the average gold price for the same respective period. The presentation of this non-IFRS measure is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently. The production forecast was derived using information that is available in the public domain as at the date hereof, which included guidance and estimates prepared and issued by management of the operators of the mining operations in which Elemental Altus holds an interest. The production forecast is sensitive to the performance and operating status of the underlying mines. None of the information has been independently verified by Elemental Altus and may be subject to uncertainty. There can be no assurance that such information is complete or accurate.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-Looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology (including negative and grammatical variations thereof).

Forward-Looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to forecasts of revenue and adjusted revenue for 2025, the timing for shipments from Caserones, the Company's ability to deliver an increased revenue profile with a lower cost of capital, the future growth, development and focus of the Company, and the acquisition of new royalties and streams. Forward-Looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies.

Forward-Looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Elemental Altus to control or predict, that may cause Elemental Altus' actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Elemental Altus will receive royalties, risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainties created by the war in Ukraine and hostilities in the Middle-East; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Elemental Altus' expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labour disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of important factors which could cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements, refer to the annual information form of Elemental Altus for the year ended December 31, 2023. Elemental Altus undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements and information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking statements and information represents management's best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement or information can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243049

SOURCE: Elemental Altus Royalties Corp.
Oversubscribed Funding Round by TCV and Insight Partners Accelerates Cloudsmith's Global Ambitions

Cloudsmith, the cloud-native artifact management platform redefining software supply chain security, has raised a $23 million Series B funding round led by TCV, with participation from Insight Partners and existing investors. Cloudsmith is used by enterprises that need control, security, and scalability in their software supply chain, and the company is cementing its position as the modern, developer-friendly, enterprise-scale alternative to legacy artifact management offerings from JFrog and Sonatype.

Cloudsmith grew nearly 150% last year, significantly expanding its enterprise customer base by adding Fortune 500 and Global 2000 companies switching to modern artifact management. New capital from this oversubscribed funding round will go towards expanding sales, marketing, and customer success teams, innovation in software supply chain security product features, and investing in AI R&D.

Enterprises are racing to secure and control their software supply chain as software threats and compliance pressures mount. Over 90% of a typical enterprise software application is sourced from open-source and third-party code, making binary artifact security as critical as source code scanning.

Software supply chain security is now imperative at the CEO level. Developers, Platform Engineering teams, and DevOps teams need to be able to rely on a centralized artifact management platform that can scale across a global enterprise. Cloudsmith's cloud-native platform has proven to be the most scalable solution for providing a standardized, compliance-driven approach to artifact management across hundreds of developer teams using disparate formats, programming languages, and technologies.

"Cloudsmith was founded to redefine artifact management, and with this investment, we're accelerating towards our mission at full scale," said Lee Skillen, Cloudsmith's CTO and co-founder. "Alan [Carson] and I remain deeply committed to making Cloudsmith the definitive global leader in software supply chain security."

"The way software is built is fundamentally changing, making artifact management mission-critical for developers, cybersecurity professionals, and platform engineers alike," said Glenn Weinstein, Cloudsmith's CEO. "Enterprises need real-time observability, security, and control over their software supply chain. This new investment will help us to keep scaling up to meet the needs of the world's largest and most complex organizations."

According to Gartner, 44% of organizations plan to significantly increase spending on supply chain cybersecurity, highlighting the urgent demand for stronger artifact security. Enterprises face mounting pressure to comply with regulations like the U.S. Executive Order on Cybersecurity and the EU's Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA). These mandates highlight the need for greater visibility, control, and security across the software development lifecycle. In this context, Cloudsmith's fully managed, globally distributed architecture helps engineering teams proactively mitigate risk without slowing down. Enterprise policy management, continuous security scanning, and integrations with third-party software supply chain security tools are making Cloudsmith indispensable for large enterprises.

"We believe in Cloudsmith's vision to become the backbone of modern software supply chains," said Morgan Gerlak, Partner at TCV. "Cloudsmith is showing why artifact management is a crucial component of the DevOps toolkit, enabling enterprises to better control, secure, and distribute software. We're excited to support the company in its next phase of growth."

Cloudsmith's Belfast headquarters remains the heart of its global operations, with expansion plans across engineering, product, sales, and customer success to support its growing enterprise customer base. Cloudsmith serves a worldwide customer base, with 75% of revenue from U.S.-based customers. Cloudsmith is one of the leading software companies founded in Northern Ireland, strengthening its tech ecosystem and attracting top-tier talent.

Existing investors MMC, Frontline, Techstart, Sorenson, Tapestry, and Shasta continued their support, increasing their investments in Cloudsmith as part of this funding round.

About Cloudsmith

Cloudsmith is the world's best cloud-native, enterprise-ready artifact management platform for securely developing and distributing software. We empower teams to build, deploy, and ship faster with complete control, security, and scalability.

For more information, visit www.cloudsmith.com

About TCV

For nearly thirty years, TCV has partnered with global, category-defining technology companies as a leading growth equity investor. Leveraging its deep industry expertise and strategic resources, TCV's mission is to provide long-term capital and support to high-quality management teams across their growth journeys. The TCV Velocity strategy was created as a complement to the TCV Growth strategy to focus on earlier-stage opportunities while leveraging the TCV platform's domain expertise, established network of advisors and tech executives along with the firm's growth acceleration credentials. TCV Velocity targets strategic sectors of the IT economy and aims to identify early-stage businesses demonstrating clear product market fit. Select investments include Arize, Avalor, Grow Therapy, and Legit Security. For more information on TCV Velocity and its investments, visit tcv.com.

About Insight Partners

Insight Partners is a global software investor partnering with high-growth technology, software, and Internet startup and ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. As of September 30, 2024, the firm has over $90B in regulatory assets under management. Insight Partners has invested in more than 800 companies worldwide and has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve an IPO. Headquartered in New York City, Insight has offices in London, Tel Aviv, and the Bay Area. Insight's mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with tailored, hands-on software expertise along their growth journey, from their first investment to IPO. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit insightpartners.com or follow us on X @insightpartners.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250303827691/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact

Resonance

resonancecrowd.com

Cloudsmith@Resonancecrowd.com
Jorge Luiz Ribeiro de Oliveira nominated Executive Vice President of ArcelorMittal

ArcelorMittal ('the company' or 'the group') today announces the appointment of Everton Negresiolo as CEO of its South American Long Products and mining business and a member of the group management committee, effective 1 April 2025. Everton will report to Aditya Mittal, Chief Executive Officer of ArcelorMittal.

Everton succeeds Jefferson de Paula, who is retiring, effective 1 April 2025. Jefferson, an Executive Vice President and member of the group's management committee, joined ArcelorMittal in 1991 as a melt shop manager in one of the company's Brazilian steel plants. During his 34-year career with the group he held several senior leadership positions including COO of Acindar (the group's Argentinian long products steelmaking operation), CEO of ArcelorMittal Europe Long Products South Division and had been CEO of the group's South American Long Products and mining business since 2011.

Everton joined ArcelorMittal in 2010 as a commercial specialist in the company's Brazilian operations. From 2010 to 2020 he worked in a range of senior roles in procurement, logistics, supply chain and sales functions, before being appointed CEO of Acindar in 2020. In 2023 he was appointed Vice President for commercial and metallics, ArcelorMittal South America Long Products, before becoming CEO of ArcelorMittal South America Long Products in June 2024. Everton is a graduate in mechanical engineering with a specialism in production management. He holds an MBA from the Fundacao Dom Cabral in Brazil.

Additionally, Jorge Luiz Ribeiro de Oliveira, currently Vice President of ArcelorMittal and CEO of ArcelorMittal South America Flat Products, has been nominated Executive Vice President of ArcelorMittal, effective 1 April 2025.



Commenting, Aditya Mittal, CEO ArcelorMittal, said:

"Over the course of his 34-year career with the company Jefferson has proved himself to be an exceptional leader who has added significant value to our group. I would like to thank him for his outstanding contribution to ArcelorMittal and wish him well in his retirement.

"Everton's appointment brings important continuity to our South American Long Products and mining business. He has done an excellent job working alongside Jefferson and I am confident he will continue to progress and strengthen our South American operations."

Everton Negresiolo, added:

"It is a privilege for me to take up this position and an honour to succeed Jefferson, who has led the division successfully for so long. We already have a tremendous business in South America but are working hard and investing to further strengthen and improve it, so we can capitalise on the growth opportunities our markets present."

ENDS

About ArcelorMittal

ArcelorMittal is one of the world's leading integrated steel and mining companies with a presence in 60 countries and primary steelmaking operations in 15 countries. It is the largest steel producer in Europe, among the largest in the Americas, and has a growing presence in Asia through its joint venture AM/NS India. ArcelorMittal sells its products to a diverse range of customers including the automotive, engineering, construction and machinery industries, and in 2024 generated revenues of $62.4 billion, produced 57.9 million metric tonnes of crude steel and 42.4 million tonnes of iron ore.

Our purpose is to produce smarter steels for people and planet. Steels made using innovative processes which use less energy, emit significantly less carbon and reduce costs. Steels that are cleaner, stronger and reusable. Steels for the renewable energy infrastructure that will support societies as they transform through this century. With steel at our core, our inventive people and an entrepreneurial culture at heart, we will support the world in making that change.

ArcelorMittal is listed on the stock exchanges of New York (MT), Amsterdam (MT), Paris (MT), Luxembourg (MT) and on the Spanish stock exchanges of Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid and Valencia (MTS).

http://corporate.arcelormittal.com/
Grenoble, March 3, 2025 - HRS , French designer and manufacturer, and European leader in hydrogen refueling stations, announces that its HRS40 station (capacity of 1 ton per day) has successfully completed its first refuelings at 350 and 700 bar. The station was installed by HRS teams at the end of 2024 at Saint-Sulpice (Occitanie, France) on behalf of its customer SEVEN, a key player in the energy transition.

As part of the European Corridor H2 project supported by the European Investment Bank and the European Commission, SEVEN placed an order with HRS in April 2024[1] for an HRS40 station to be integrated in February 2025 into its multi-energy station at Saint-Sulpice-la-Pointe in the department of Tarn (Occitanie, France).

The first refuelings were carried out on a retrofitted bus for the Occitanie region (35.8 kg tank at 350 bar) and on a Toyota Mirai (5.6 kg tank at 700 bar). These refuelings are made possible 6 weeks after the installation of the station, thanks to the testing and development work carried out by HRS teams on its test area. The efficiency of this project also relies on the skills and professionalism of the HRS installation and start-up teams.

Over time, a fleet of 15 hydrogen-powered buses will be refueled at this site, contributing to the decarbonization of mobility in the region.

With this 1 ton/day station, HRS is demonstrating its ability to deploy high-capacity stations and respond rapidly to customer needs, thus consolidating its European leadership in the deployment of AFIR-compatible hydrogen stations[2].

HRS is thus contributing to this major European project, enabling hydrogen refueling on a strategic route from the Iberian Peninsula to Northern Europe, and confirming its commitment to the energy transition in the transport sector.

Jean-Michel RICHETON, Chairman of the SEVEN Group, comments: "We are delighted to announce the start of operations at the hydrogen station at Saint-Sulpice la Pointe, in the Tarn department (France). This project, which symbolizes our commitment to sustainable mobility, would not have been possible without the expertise and dedication of our partners. Our special thanks go to HRS and its CEO, Hassen Rachedi, whose vision and technical know-how were essential to the realization of this state-of-the-art infrastructure, in record time."

Hassen RACHEDI, founder and CEO of HRS, comments: "We are delighted to have successfully installed this HRS40 station for SEVEN, a true specialist in the development and distribution of energies of the future. This is further proof of the expertise of our teams and their ability to intervene quickly on the ground to install and commission a station tailored to the customer's needs. By contributing to the Corridor H2 project, we are concretely reinforcing our commitment to sustainable mobility, for the benefit of all regions. We are also consolidating our position as a key player in Europe to meet the challenges of refueling heavy mobility, particularly in the context of AFIR regulations, which open up excellent prospects for us."

ABOUT SEVEN

The SEVEN Group, founded in 2017, brings unique know-how by mastering the entire value chain developing new energies for the future, from production to use.

The group's first link is its network of multi-fuel stations (BioGNC, bioH2 and IRVE) for road and sea transport.

Circular economy, energy autonomy, local employment and renewable energy are all issues that drive the SEVEN team.

To support innovation and the emergence of new know-how, SEVEN has positioned itself in innovative projects, notably with VabHYogaz technology, which produces renewable hydrogen from organic matter.

At the same time, SEVEN is rounding out its value chain alongside industrial partners to design and develop turnkey retrofit solutions for heavy-duty mobility.

ABOUT HRS (HYDROGEN REFUELING SOLUTIONS)

HRS is a world leader in large-capacity hydrogen refueling stations. HRS offers a complete and unique range of modular and scalable stations, from 200 kg/day to 4 tons/day.

Pure player from design to commissioning, HRS boasts state-of-the-art industrial production facilities capable of assembling up to 180 stations a year, with lead times of 6 to 12 weeks. This industrial site includes a test area, the only one of its kind in Europe, to test and trial the range of stations and develop future products and solutions for the hydrogen mobility market.

HRS has a hydrogen agnostic approach, allowing the use of any type of hydrogen (green, blue, grey, etc.). Our stations are compatible with all hydrogen production solutions and independent of manufacturers. This flexibility enables customers to choose the hydrogen supplier best suited to their needs in terms of cost, availability and carbon footprint.

HRS also offers a comprehensive service package, including 24/7/365 on-call maintenance. The performance of stations installed in Europe and around the world is monitored in real time from the state-of-the-art control room.

Today, HRS has one of the largest installed bases of high-capacity stations on the market, with twenty-eight stations ranging from 200 kg to 1 ton/day, representing a cumulative capacity of over 6 tons/day. All station terminals are bi-pressure and equipped with 350-bar, 350-HF and 700-bar nozzles, meeting all the needs of hydrogen mobility.

HRS stands out for its rigorous economic discipline, offering long-term financial solidity while continuing to allocate adequate resources to R&D, thus ensuring its position at the forefront of innovation.

ISIN code: FR0014001PM5 - mnemonic: ALHRS.

For further information, visit our website www.hydrogen-refueling-solutions.fr

CONTACTS

Investor Relations

ACTUS finance & communication

Pierre JACQUEMIN-GUILLAUME

hrs@actus.fr

Tel. +331 53 67 36 79 Financial press relations

ACTUS finance & communication

Deborah SCHWARTZ

hrs-presse@actus.fr

Tel. +331 53 67 36 35 Corporate press relations

ACTUS finance & communication

Anne-Charlotte DUDICOURT

hrs-presse@actus.fr

Tel.: +331 53 67 36 32

[1] See the April 3, 2024 press release.

[2] AFIR: Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Regulation

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Medtronic Spark will provide young people from low-income households the skills needed for well-paying jobs in a growing industry facing a global workforce shortage

Medtronic, a global leader in healthcare technology, today announced the launch of Medtronic Spark, a 10-year initiative aimed at propelling one million low-income students into health tech careers. The initiative seeks to help address the growing health tech talent gap through three programs: Medtronic Spark Credentials, Medtronic Spark Innovator Labs, and the Medtronic Spark Scholarship.

By 2030, the tech sector, including health tech, will face a global talent shortage of 4.3 million people. Making matters more urgent, the World Health Organization predicts there will be shortfall of 11 million health workers, disproportionately impacting outcomes for low-income countries and low-income students.

"This initiative, which takes a multifaceted approach to address health tech workforce shortages, reflects Medtronic's proud 75-year history and unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare and improving lives worldwide," said Torod Neptune, chairman of Medtronic Foundation. "By investing in future talent, we're creating a well-trained and capable workforce, ensuring growing healthcare needs will be answered in the future."

A new Medtronic and Morning Consult survey found 72% of Americans are concerned about healthcare workforce shortages, more than any other industry. Only 35% of those surveyed say society is prepared to handle these shortages.

The demand for future talent is clear with the global health tech industry projected to reach $775 billion by 2029 and many young people are ready to take advantage of the opportunity. A global study of 700,000+ respondents found that young people's highest priority is getting the education, skills and competencies to allow them to enter the workforce and build successful careers.

"We want to ensure that we are not just touching young people's lives but truly changing the trajectory of their lives with future opportunities in health tech that have potential for lasting generational impact," said Sally Saba, president of Medtronic Foundation.

About the Medtronic Spark initiative

Through Medtronic Spark, which will be focused in locations around the world where Medtronic has an established presence, the company hopes to build on a tradition of creating groundbreaking innovations that have revolutionized patient care. The initiative targets a new generation of workers by offering:

Credentials: A first-of-its kind industry-recognized certification will equip non-degree young adults with in-demand skills for the evolving job market. Expanding alternative pathways into tech careers benefits businesses and workers, as 63% of employers cite skill gaps as a major barrier and 58% of Gen Z supports hiring non-degree graduates.

Innovator Labs: Experiencing hands-on innovation opportunities and mentoring in low-income communities can help young people be more prepared for and interested in health tech careers. Currently, only 42% of high school students engage in hands-on STEM activities and only 20% of high school graduates are prepared for college-level coursework in STEM majors.

Scholarship: Provide low-income students with a scholarship that goes beyond traditional tuition support. Only 11% of low-income students who receive financial help complete their degrees. The Medtronic Spark Scholarship aims to help address the wide range of barriers needed to successfully complete a degree.

About Medtronic

Bold thinking. Bolder actions. We are Medtronic. Medtronic plc, headquartered in Galway, Ireland, is the leading global healthcare technology company that boldly attacks the most challenging health problems facing humanity by searching out and finding solutions. Our Mission - to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life - unites a global team of 95,000+ passionate people across more than 150 countries. Our technologies and therapies treat 70 health conditions and include cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, surgical tools, patient monitoring systems, and more. Powered by our diverse knowledge, insatiable curiosity, and desire to help all those who need it, we deliver innovative technologies that transform the lives of two people every second, every hour, every day. Expect more from us as we empower insight-driven care, experiences that put people first, and better outcomes for our world. In everything we do, we are engineering the extraordinary. For more information on Medtronic, visit www.Medtronic.com and follow Medtronic on LinkedIn.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

Contacts:

Erika Winkels

Public Relations

+1-763-526-8478

Ryan Weispfenning

Investor Relations

+1-763-505-4626

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Medtronic on 3blmedia.com.



Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Medtronic

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/medtronic

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Medtronic
BH Macro Limited - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, March 03

BH Macro Limited (the "Company")

(a closed-ended collective investment scheme established as a company with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registered number 46235)

Transaction in Own Shares

03 March 2025

BH Macro Limited (the Company) announces today it has purchased the following number of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange from J.P. Morgan Securities plc:

Ordinary Shares: - Share Class Sterling Date of purchase: 03 March 2025 Number of ordinary shares purchased: 21 Lowest price per share (pence) 384.00 Highest price per share (pence) 384.00 Trading venue London Aggregate volume per date per trading venue: 21 Weighted average price per day per trading venue (pence): 384.0000

The Company intends to hold the purchased shares in treasury.

Following the above share transactions of the relevant US Dollar and Sterling Shares, the total number of shares in issue in each share class of the Company will be as follows:

Ordinary Shares in issue (excluding Treasury) Ordinary Shares held in Treasury 340,057,460 Sterling Shares 35,683,251 Sterling Shares 27,132,086 Dollar Shares Nil Dollar Shares

From 03 March 2025, the total number of voting rights in the Company (rounded up to the whole number) is 520,861,189.

Enquiries:

Company website: www.bhmacro.com

William Simmonds

JPMorgan Cazenove

Tel: 020 7588 2828

The Company Secretary

Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited

Tel: 01481 745001
PUNE, India, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The land mobile radio base station market is poised for steady growth, projected to expand from $9,268.41 million in 2023 to $13,317.91 million by 2032. This growth reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.09%. The market's expansion is driven by the increasing demand for secure and reliable communication systems across various sectors, including public safety, defense, and transportation. As urbanization continues to rise, there is a growing need for advanced communication infrastructure that supports critical communications in emergency situations and day-to-day operations.

Additionally, the adoption of digital technologies and advancements in radio frequency spectrum management are contributing to the market's positive outlook. The shift towards integrating LTE and 5G technologies into land mobile radio base stations is expected to further accelerate market growth by enhancing data transmission capabilities and overall system efficiency. As industries invest in modernization and technological upgrades, the market is set to witness continued investment and innovation, ensuring robust growth in the coming years.

Key Growth Determinants

Increasing Demand for Reliable Communication Systems

The growing need for secure, reliable, and instantaneous communication across critical sectors like public safety, defense, and emergency services is one of the key growth determinants for the land mobile radio base station market. As the demand for advanced communication solutions rises to support efficient response times and real-time information sharing, the market is driven by the necessity to maintain clear, uninterrupted communication in mission-critical applications.

Technological Advancements in LTE and 5G Integration

Technological advancements, particularly the integration of LTE and 5G technologies, are propelling the growth of the land mobile radio base station market. The transition from analog to digital communication systems, coupled with improved data transmission capabilities, enhances the overall performance of land mobile radio systems. The adoption of these next-generation technologies allows for higher bandwidth, faster data speeds, and better coverage, making them increasingly vital for modern communication needs.

Urbanization and Infrastructure Development

Urbanization and infrastructure development are key contributors to the market's growth. As cities expand and industrial zones grow, there is an increased demand for communication infrastructure to support seamless connectivity across densely populated and remote areas. This shift drives investments in modern land mobile radio systems, as they provide reliable coverage for large-scale urban environments, ensuring efficient communication in both routine and emergency situations.

Rising Public and Private Sector Investments

Governments and private enterprises are significantly investing in upgrading communication infrastructure to meet the growing demands of public safety, law enforcement, and transportation sectors. Public safety agencies are increasingly adopting advanced communication networks, such as private LTE networks and integrated land mobile radio systems, further driving the market. These investments are essential for the continued growth of the land mobile radio base station market, as they ensure improved functionality and system resilience.

Browse the report and understand how it can benefit your business strategy -https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/land-mobile-radio-base-station-market

Key Growth Barriers

High Initial Investment and Maintenance Costs

A significant barrier to the growth of the land mobile radio base station market is the high initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs associated with deploying and maintaining advanced communication infrastructure. Small to medium-sized organizations, especially in developing regions, may struggle to afford the substantial capital required for installation, as well as the costs for regular upgrades, maintenance, and system integrations to keep up with technological advancements.

Spectrum Availability and Regulatory Challenges

The availability of radio frequency spectrum and regulatory hurdles pose another challenge for market growth. Governments and regulatory bodies often face difficulties in allocating sufficient spectrum for land mobile radio systems, which can lead to bandwidth congestion and service disruption. Furthermore, navigating complex regulatory frameworks for spectrum allocation and compliance with local and international communication standards can create delays in market entry and expansion.

Technological Compatibility Issues

As industries transition to more advanced communication networks, integrating new technologies like LTE and 5G with existing land mobile radio systems can be challenging. Compatibility issues between legacy systems and modern digital communication technologies can cause inefficiencies, additional costs for retrofitting, and difficulties in maintaining seamless communication across platforms. These technological challenges may hinder the rapid adoption of newer solutions, especially in regions with older infrastructure.

Limited Coverage in Remote and Rural Areas

While urban areas are witnessing a surge in land mobile radio system adoption, coverage in remote and rural areas remains a challenge. The deployment of reliable infrastructure in these locations requires significant investments and logistical efforts. For markets operating in less densely populated regions, providing consistent and effective coverage can be costly and complex, further limiting the overall market expansion in such areas.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Frequency

25-174 (VHF)

200-512 (UHF)

700 MHZ and Above

By Application

Public Safety

Military & Defense

Logistics & Transportation

Utility

Others

By Region

North America

The U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



France



The U.K.



Italy



Spain



Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China



Japan



India



South Korea



South-east Asia



Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil



Argentina



Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

GCC Countries



South Africa



Rest of the Middle East and Africa

Preview the report with a detailed sample and understand how it can benefit your business strategy. Request a free sample today -https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/land-mobile-radio-base-station-market

Regional Analysis

North America

The North American land mobile radio base station market is expected to maintain steady growth due to the region's strong adoption of advanced communication technologies and the ongoing modernization of communication infrastructure. The United States, in particular, has a robust demand for land mobile radio systems, driven by public safety, defense, and transportation sectors. The integration of LTE and 5G technologies into land mobile radio systems is also gaining traction, further propelling market expansion. Additionally, government initiatives aimed at enhancing communication networks for first responders and emergency services are driving investments in land mobile radio systems. However, high initial setup costs and regulatory challenges in spectrum allocation remain key barriers in this region.

Europe

Europe is witnessing a significant demand for land mobile radio base stations, fueled by increasing public safety initiatives and the need for secure, real-time communication in sectors like healthcare, law enforcement, and transportation. The European Union's focus on smart city development and the integration of next-generation communication systems is enhancing the market's growth prospects. However, the region also faces regulatory challenges related to spectrum allocation and standardization. Countries with advanced technological infrastructures, like Germany and the UK, are expected to dominate the market, although slower adoption in smaller, rural areas could hinder overall growth.

Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to be a key growth driver for the land mobile radio base station market due to rapid urbanization, expanding industrial sectors, and increasing investments in smart city projects. Countries like China, India, and Japan are seeing significant advancements in communication infrastructure, fueling demand for advanced land mobile radio systems. Additionally, the region's growing adoption of LTE and 5G networks is contributing to market growth. However, the market faces challenges in terms of spectrum availability and regulatory compliance, particularly in countries with complex legal frameworks. Despite these challenges, the Asia Pacific market is expected to witness robust growth, driven by the region's vast consumer base and infrastructure development.

Latin America

The land mobile radio base station market in Latin America is expected to grow at a moderate pace due to the increasing demand for communication systems in public safety and transportation sectors. Countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are investing in modernizing their communication infrastructure, particularly in urban areas. However, limited financial resources and high installation costs pose significant barriers to growth in some countries. The adoption of next-generation communication technologies like LTE and 5G is slower in this region compared to other markets, but the growing focus on public safety and emergency services is expected to drive demand for advanced communication systems in the long term.

Middle East and Africa

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) region is seeing growing interest in land mobile radio base stations, driven by the need for reliable communication in sectors such as defense, oil and gas, and public safety. Countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are investing in upgrading their communication networks, with a particular emphasis on mission-critical communications. However, political instability and infrastructure challenges in certain parts of the region may limit market growth. Additionally, the cost of deploying advanced communication systems in remote areas remains a significant barrier. Despite these challenges, the MEA region is expected to see gradual market growth, driven by strategic investments in communication technologies and government initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and security.

Credence Research's Competitive Landscape Analysis

The Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Base Station market is highly competitive, driven by key players like Motorola Solutions, L3Harris Technologies, Kenwood Corporation, Tait Communications, and Icom Inc. These companies dominate the market through innovative product offerings, such as advanced digital radio technologies (e.g., P25 and TETRA), secure communications, and extended range features. To maintain their market position, they invest heavily in research and development, forming strategic partnerships with government and private sector entities to cater to growing demand in critical industries like public safety, defense, and utilities. However, the market faces challenges from high capital investments and the rise of alternative communication technologies, such as cellular-based solutions and integrated broadband networks. As competition intensifies, players must focus on technological advancements, expanding their regional presence, and providing tailored solutions to stay ahead.

Key Market Companies

Motorola Solutions, Inc.

Harris Corporation (now L3Harris Technologies)

Hytera Communications Corporation

Kenwood Corporation (JVC Kenwood Corporation)

Sepura Limited (Hytera Communications Corporation)

Tait Communications Inc.

Airbus DS Communications (Airbus Defense and Space)

Recent Industry Developments

In July 2024, Motorola Solutions opened a new Research and Development Centre in Cork, Ireland, focusing on expanding software solutions for the company's Land Mobile Radio (LMR) portfolio and further advancing technology. This investment follows over $12 billion spent on research and development and several company acquisitions. Motorola's safety and security solution ecosystem relies heavily on LMR technology. The project, supported by the Irish government through IDA Ireland, underscores the company's commitment to continued growth in Ireland.

In November 2022, Motorola Solutions India and Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL) signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance broadband communication services in India. This collaboration aims to combine the strengths of both companies to improve the professional mobile phone market and accelerate communication for users of Motorola's WAVE PTX service, a multimedia platform enabling seamless, immediate information exchange across teams.

In November 2023, Hytera Communications, a leading provider of professional communication solutions, launched two new radio series: the HP79XEx and PT890Ex Tetra portable radios. These devices are designed to meet the stringent IECEX and ATEX standards for explosion-proof equipment.

In May 2023, Icom Incorporated introduced the IC-F200, a new two-way radio/walkie-talkie. The IC-F200 features a lightweight design, IP54 water resistance, multi-language menus, and multi-user identity settings, making it a versatile communication tool.

In May 2022, Hytera US Inc. unveiled the PNC360S radio, which utilizes Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) technology. The PNC360S enables instant group and individual voice calling over national wireless networks and supports push-to-talk over personal Wi-Fi networks, offering enhanced communication flexibility.

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Esker, Bridgepoint and General Atlantic announce the delisting of Esker, effective as of 3 March 2025, following the large success of the friendly public tender offer announced in September 2024.

Esker and its management thank their shareholders for their trust and support throughout the company's time as a listed entity.

Esker, along with its management and employees, embarks on a new chapter in the company's history through a strategic partnership with Bridgepoint and General Atlantic. This partnership aims to accelerate Esker's development and strengthen its position in a rapidly expanding market.

Esker, Bridgepoint and General Atlantic announce the squeeze-out of Esker, effective as of 3 March 2025, following the large success of the friendly public tender offer initiated by Boreal Bidco SAS (the "Offeror") for the Esker shares, announced in September 2024 (the "Offer

Esker and its management thank their shareholders for the trust and constant support shown throughout its successful journey on the stock market. Now private, Esker, alongside its management and employees, is ready to embark on a new chapter of its history. The strategic partnership with Bridgepoint and General Atlantic aims to accelerate Esker's development and strengthen its position in a rapidly expanding market.

The Offer, announced on 19 September 2024 and cleared by the Autorite des marches financiers (the "AMF") on 22 November 2024, was opened from 2 December 2024 to 9 January 2025 and allowed the Offeror to hold c. 75% of Esker's capital and voting rights on 24 January 2025, settlement-delivery date. At the end of the reopened Offer, which took place from 17 to 30 January 2025, the Offeror held, in concert with Boreal Topco, Mr. Jean-Michel Berard, Mr. Emmanuel Olivier and Mr. Jean-Jacques Berard, more than 90% of Esker's capital and voting rights.

Driven by this success, the Offeror requested the implementation of the squeeze-out procedure for Esker shares, in accordance with what had been indicated in the offer document relating to the Offer and with applicable law.

Jean-Michel Berard, President and Founder of Esker stated: "We thank our shareholders for their trust. This transaction marks a major milestone for Esker. Together with Bridgepoint and General Atlantic, we will build the future of Esker.

Emmanuel Olivier, Chief Operating Officer of Esker, stated: "This is a key milestone in Esker's history. With the support of our new shareholders, we are eager to build it with the ambition of always better serving our clients."

David Nicault, Partner and Head of Technology at Bridgepoint, stated: "Esker has high-quality products and services with great potential. We are fully committed to supporting Esker, its executives, and its employees in a new stage of their development by providing our expertise and financial resources to make it a global leader

Vincent-Gael Baudet, Partner and Head of Bridgepoint Europe in France, stated: "As a result of the complete success of this operation, leveraging the expertise of the Esker and Bridgepoint teams, we will be able to support the acceleration of Esker's development in a private company context.

Gabriel Caillaux, Co-President and Head of General Atlantic's business in EMEA, stated: "Esker occupies a unique position in the market, with a highly applicable software solution and the opportunity to extend its global footprint. We are pleased to reach this milestone and look forward to partnering with Esker to strengthen its leading product offering and achieve further growth in the years ahead.

ABOUT ESKER

Esker is the global authority in AI-powered business solutions for the Office of the CFO.

Leveraging the latest in automation technologies, Esker's Source-to-Pay and Order-to-Cash solutions optimize working capital and cashflow, enhance decision-making, and drive better collaboration and human-to-human relationships with customers, suppliers and employees.

Esker operates in North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia Pacific with global headquarters in Lyon, France, and U.S. headquarters in Madison, Wisconsin. The company generated sales of 205.3 million in 2024, more than 2/3 of which outside France.

ABOUT BRIDGEPOINT

Bridgepoint, listed on the London Stock Exchange, is a leading alternative asset manager specializing in private equity, infrastructure and private credit.

With over 67 billion in assets under management and more than 200 investment professionals located in Europe, North America and Asia, Bridgepoint combines global scale with local market knowledge and sector expertise. Bridgepoint invests in companies operating in resilient growth sectors, managed by ambitious teams.

The group has been present in France for over 35 years, where it has one of the largest investment teams and a track record of landmark technology deals, with Cast, Sinari, Brevo, Kyriba, Calypso, eFront and more recently LumApps. Bridgepoint also recently acquired the Property Management business of Nexity, a Euronext-listed company.

www.bridgepoint.eu

ABOUT GENERAL ATLANTIC

General Atlantic is a leading global investor, with more than four and a half decades of experience in providing capital and strategic support to more than 830 companies throughout its history.

Founded in 1980, General Atlantic continues to be the dedicated partner of visionary founders and investors seeking to build dynamic companies and create long-term value. Guided by the belief that entrepreneurs can be incredible agents of transformational change, the company combines a collaborative global approach, sector expertise, a long-term investment horizon and a deep understanding of growth drivers to shareholder and grow innovative companies worldwide. General Atlantic leverages its patient capital, operational expertise and global platform to support a diversified investment platform covering Growth Equity, Credit, Climate and Sustainable Infrastructure strategies.

General Atlantic manages approximately $103 billion in assets, across all strategies, as of December 31, 2024, with more than 900 professionals in 20 countries and five regions. For more information on General Atlantic, please visit www.generalatlantic.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250303666115/en/

Contacts:

Media contacts

Esker - Emmanuel Olivier

emmanuel.olivier@esker.com

+33472834646

News - Helene de Watteville

hdewatteville@actus.fr

+331536736 33

Bridgepoint

Charlotte Le Barbier

clebarbier@image7.fr

+33678372760

General Atlantic

Emily Japlon, Jessica Gill and Sara Widmann

media@generalatlantic.com
JetSMART Expands to the U.S., Bringing Affordable Travel Options to South America

Have you ever dreamed of visiting one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu in Peru? Have you wondered what it's like to taste the best barbecue of your life in Lionel Messi's homeland, Argentina? Have you thought about disconnecting and finding inspiration in the breathtaking landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama in Chile? Or living the experience of a lifetime in the warm waters of Cartagena de Indias in Colombia?

Here's how to do it the SMART way-paying an ultra low price that let you reach the most exciting destinations in on one of the largest airlines in South America, paying only for the baggage you need and at ultra-low fares.

JetSMART Airlines, a U.S.-backed airline operating in South America, has enabled sales channels in the United States through travel agencies so that everyone can fly at ultra-low prices. JetSMART is the largest and fastest-growing ultra-low-cost airline in South America. Since its founding in 2016, JetSMART has revolutionized the airline industry, currently serving more than 80 domestic and international routes across eight countries in the region, including Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Ecuador.

"At JetSMART we are innovating, launching sales in the United States. Undoubtedly this is the cornerstone of our expansion project. Our Ultra-Low-Cost model is proven and has allowed us to carry more than 35 million passengers, flying SMART at ultra-low fares on new aircraft, actually, one of the youngest fleets in the world. We see enormous potential in connecting new passengers in the United States to destinations in Latin America to promote development, tourism and connectivity. We have been recognized as the best low cost in South America and number three in customer satisfaction in the region by SKYTRAX World Airline Awards. Our fleet of 44 factory-new Airbus aircraft is the largest ultra low cost fleet in the region", said Estuardo Ortiz, CEO of JetSMART.

JetSMART's business model is based on radical low-cost efficiency, allowing millions of passengers to access air travel for the first time, significantly reducing prices in every market it enters. The airline has a strategic alliance with American Airlines, allowing passengers to earn and redeem miles in the AAdvantage program, expanding its route network and enhancing its value proposition, buying tickets in the US to travel a diverse offer of routes to fantastic South American destinations.

Backed by world-class investors such as Indigo Partners and American Airlines, JetSMART is positioned as the leader in the low-cost market and plans to operate more than 100 aircraft by 2028, connecting communities and creating new opportunities for travelers eager to explore South America, and has been repeatedly recognized for its operational excellence, winning awards such as SKYTRAX's Best Low-Cost Airline in South America in 2021 and 2023.

With JetSMART, booking tickets is simple and SMART. Visit www.jetsmart.com or check with your trusted travel agency.

About JetSMART

JetSMART Airlines is the largest and fastest growing ultra-low cost (ULCC) airline in South America, committed to offering affordable fares and expanding air connectivity in the region. Since its founding in 2016, JetSMART has revolutionized the airline industry, currently serving more than 80 domestic and international routes in Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Ecuador. Its fleet of 44 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, one of the youngest and most modern on the continent, supports its operational capacity and efficiency.

JetSMART's business model is based on radical low-cost efficiency, which has enabled millions of passengers to access air transport for the first time, connecting secondary cities and significantly reducing prices in each market it enters. With the backing of world-class investors such as Indigo Partners and American Airlines, JetSMART is positioned as the leader in the low-cost market and plans to operate more than 100 aircraft by 2028, connecting communities and creating new opportunities for South American travelers.

JetSMART has been repeatedly recognized for its operational excellence, winning awards such as the SKYTRAX for the best low-cost airline in South America in 2021 and 2023. In addition, its alliance with American Airlines and the accrual of miles in the AAdvantage program, expands its route network and strengthens the value proposition for passengers. For more information, visit www.JetSMART.com

For more info, contact: Leslie Machado lmachado@aviareps.us

SOURCE: JetSMART
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Sol Strategies Inc. (CSE: HODL) (OTCQX: CYFRF) (formerly, Cypherpunk Holdings Inc, "Sol Strategies" or the "Company"), a publicly traded Canadian company dedicated to investing in and providing infrastructure for the Solana blockchain ecosystem, today announced the appointment of Luis Berruga, Founder and Managing Partner of LBS Capital, to its Board of Directors. With over 20 years of expertise and leadership in global ETF markets and traditional finance, Berruga's extensive experience in ETF's and asset management is expected to provide critical insights and business development opportunities as Sol Strategies continues its growth trajectory and advances the development of its institutional Solana Staking platform.

"We are honored to welcome Luis to our Board of Directors," said Sol Strategies CEO Leah Wald. "Mr. Berruga's deep expertise in global asset management and institutional asset management will bring invaluable guidance as we continue to execute our strategic growth plans. From entrepreneurial achievements at LBS Capital, where he advises leaders in the wealth and asset management industry, to his leadership at Global X ETF's, Luis has demonstrated a remarkable ability to drive sustainable growth while advancing innovative investment product solutions. His contributions and deep rolodex of relationships will play a vital role as we scale our operations and accelerate the development of the world's premier institutional grade staking platform for the Solana ecosystem."

During his 10-year tenure at Global X ETFs, Berruga held several senior executive roles, including CEO and chairman of the board of the company's global operations, Board Member of Global X Funds, President and Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Financial Officer. In these capacities, he led operations and oversaw, designed, managed and successfully implemented all aspects of the infrastructure buildout necessary to support a fast-growing ETF business that rapidly increased assets under management from $2bn at the beginning of 2014 to $45bn at the end of 2023 in the US and $80bn globally. Since leaving Global X, Berruga founded and leads LBS Capital, a boutique investment firm and advisory business specializing in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and corporate governance that partners with a select group of C-level executives in the wealth and asset management industry.

"It is a privilege to join Sol Strategies' Board of Directors and contribute to its groundbreaking work in developing technology and infrastructure for the rapidly growing Solana Ecosystem," said Berruga. "Throughout my career, I've been passionate about the global asset management business, and Sol Strategies' innovative staking platform represents a critical advancement in the institutional adoption of digital assets. I look forward to supporting the company's efforts to scale its business through its innovative technology solutions and strategic partnerships and acquisition strategy."

Berruga's appointment increases Sol Strategies' Board of Directors to six members, reinforcing the Company's commitment to strong governance and diverse leadership. His extensive expertise in traditional asset management and deep relationships with global business leaders aligns closely with Sol Strategies' vision to create a leading institutional Solana staking platform through a combination of proprietary technology solutions and strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

About Sol Strategies

Sol Strategies Inc. (CSE: HODL) (OTCQX: CYFRF) is a Canadian investment company that operates at the forefront of blockchain innovation. Specializing in the Solana ecosystem, the company provides strategic investments and infrastructure solutions to enable the next generation of decentralized applications.

To learn more about Sol Strategies, please visit www.solstrategies.io. A copy of this news release and all the Company's related material documents regarding the Company may be obtained under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements and information. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements and information relating to the Company's or the Company's management team's expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, and expectations regarding the characteristics, value drivers, and anticipated benefits of the Company's business plans and operations related thereto. Forward-looking information can also be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or indicates that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be" taken, "occur" or "be achieved".

Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding the appointment of Mr. Berruga. There is no assurance that the Company's plans or objectives will be implemented as set out herein, or at all. Forward-looking information is based on certain factors and assumptions the Company believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.

The purpose of forward-looking information is to provide the reader with a description of management's expectations, and such forward-looking information may not be appropriate for any other purpose. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates, and opinions on the date that statements are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates, and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as required by law. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements.

Disclaimer:

Sol Strategies is an independent organization in the Solana ecosystem. Sol Strategies is not affiliated with, owned by, or under common control with Solana Foundation (the "Foundation"), and the Foundation has not entered into any association, partnership, joint venture, employee, or agency relationship with Sol Strategies.

None of the Foundation or its council members, officers, agents or make any representations or warranties, recommendations, endorsements or promises with respect to the accuracy of any statements made, information provided, or action taken by Sol Strategies and expressly disclaim any and all liability arising from or related to any such statements, information or action.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243101

SOURCE: Sol Strategies Inc.
Today, voxeljet AG ("voxeljet") announced that at the extraordinary General Meeting of voxeljet AG on Thursday, February 27, 2025, voxeljet completed the first shareholder meeting with resolutions on the sale of voxeljet's business. The resolution proposal on agenda item 5, the amendment to the Articles of Association to reduce the size of the Supervisory Board, published in the federal gazette (Bundesanzeiger) January 17, 2025 was adopted by the general meeting.

The present shareholders approved postponing other related resolutions (agenda items 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6). The postponement offers the company the opportunity to provide shareholders with further information in advance of the ordinary general meeting, which is expected to occur in the second quarter of the year.

ABOUT VOXELJET

voxeljet's was founded in 1999 as a spin-off from Technical University Munich (TUM) with a clear vision in mind: to establish a new manufacturing standard by developing new generative processes for the series-production of complex components using 3D printing. In the beginning, operations were launched with four employees at the TUM. Today, we are a globally acting, leading provider of high-speed, large-format 3D printers and on-demand 3D printed parts to industrial and commercial customers. Components manufactured with the help of voxeljet technology are flying in space, make mobility more efficient and the production of new engineering solutions possible. Visit voxeljet's website www.voxeljet.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, or on Twitter.

Virtual tour through voxeljet HQs in Germany: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BVt4h_6oWkc

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250228868400/en/

Contacts:

Johannes Pesch

Director Investor Relations, Business Development and Purchasing

+49-821-7483-172

johannes.pesch@voxeljet.de
New Board Appointments Signal Growth as AI Moves Beyond Data Science Teams

As AI adoption accelerates, companies are shifting their focus from technical innovation to real-world business applications. To support this transition, Pecan AI has appointed tech veteran Trevor Healy as Executive Chairman and former P&G CIO Andy Walter as an advisory board member. Their leadership marks a growing industry movement toward AI solutions designed for business decision-makers rather than just data science teams.

Healy, a technology entrepreneur and investor (formerly PayPal, Telefonica, Verisign), has a proven track record of scaling AI and tech-driven businesses. Walter, former CIO at Procter & Gamble, brings decades of expertise in enterprise analytics and IT strategy. Their appointments reflect the increasing demand for AI that integrates directly into business decision-making without requiring specialized technical expertise.

"AI adoption isn't just about having the right technology - it's about making AI work for business teams," said Trevor Healy. "Companies today have more data than ever, yet many still struggle to turn it into meaningful predictions. Pecan is changing that by making predictive analytics directly available to business teams, without requiring dedicated data scientists. That's why I'm excited to help scale this transformation."

Walter, who led P&G's global analytics transformation, sees a major shift in how enterprises approach AI integration.

"Many organizations invest in AI but struggle to scale it beyond early-stage pilots," said Andy Walter. "Pecan is addressing this challenge by enabling business intelligence teams to apply predictive analytics where it matters - without getting stuck in complex modeling or technical bottlenecks."

Expanding AI Access: Predictive Insights Without Data Scientists

As companies push forward with AI adoption, 74% of organizations report difficulties scaling AI beyond proof-of-concept projects. One major barrier is reliance on specialized data science teams, which can slow down implementation and limit AI's impact across an organization.

To bridge this gap, Pecan AI has focused on making predictive analytics more accessible to business intelligence (BI) teams. The company has developed a predictive modeling Co-Pilot that allows BI analysts to generate predictive insights independently, helping businesses forecast outcomes such as customer churn, demand fluctuations, and lead conversion trends.

"Trevor and Andy's leadership will help us expand this vision and refine how predictive analytics fits into everyday business decision-making," said Dr. Zohar Bronfman, CEO & Co-Founder of Pecan AI. "The future of AI isn't just about building models - it's about making them work in real-world business scenarios."

How Businesses Are Applying Predictive Analytics

Pecan AI's platform is already being used by companies looking to apply predictive analytics without hiring dedicated data science teams.

Case Study: Little Spoon (DTC Food Delivery)

The Challenge: The company needed a way to predict customer lifetime value (LTV) and reduce churn while operating with lean resources.

The Solution: Using Pecan AI, BI analysts built predictive models independently, optimizing marketing spend and retention strategies.

The Results: Improved customer engagement and marketing ROI, making AI-driven decision-making a core part of daily operations.

"Pecan's predictive capabilities helped us refine our customer strategies without requiring technical expertise," said Adam Smith, Director of Strategic Analytics at Little Spoon. "It made predictive analytics a natural part of our strategy, not an isolated tool."

About Pecan AI

Pecan AI is the leader in Generative AI (GenAI), empowering businesses to harness the power of AI and machine learning without requiring extensive data science expertise. Co-founded by Dr. Zohar Bronfman and Noam Brezis, Pecan AI delivers actionable insights that drive smarter decisions and tangible results. With its intuitive platform, organizations can quickly integrate predictive modeling into their operations, solving critical business challenges in areas such as demand forecasting, customer retention, and inventory optimization.

Pecan AI's mission is to democratize AI, making advanced analytics accessible to businesses of all sizes. By bridging the gap between technical complexity and business needs, Pecan AI enables companies to unlock growth opportunities, boost efficiency, and stay ahead in competitive markets.

To learn more, visit www.pecan.ai and follow Pecan AI on LinkedIn .

Media Contact

Organization: Pecan AI

Contact Person Name: Jade Randall

Website: https://www.pecan.ai/

Email: info@pecan.ai

Address: Sapir Tower, Tuval 40 Floor 24

City: Tel Aviv

State: Tel Aviv

Country: Israel

SOURCE: Pecan AI
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) -Lode Gold Resources Inc. (TSXV: LOD) (OTCQB: LODFF) ("Lode Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce 2025 exploration targets for its Phase 1 exploration program in its subsidiary, Gold Orogen, which will be spun out as a separate public company in March 2025, pending Exchange and Shareholder approval. The Annual Shareholder Meeting is set for March 10, 2025. Shareholders of Lode Gold as of the Record Date will be eligible to receive shares of the new Spin Co (Gold Orogen). This tax-efficient spin-out is to ensure maximum return on investment for shareholders.

Gold Orogen has formed a JV-Co, Acadian Gold, with Fancamp, creating one of the largest land packages on the Iapetus Suture Belt in New Brunswick. This potential district-scale play covers 445 km. Atlantic Canada, especially New Brunswick, equipped with excellent infrastructure and geopolitics, is under-explored yet highly prospective for both gold and polymetallic minerals. In recent months, majors such as Kinross, Equinox Gold and others have strategically made advancements in the area.

The potential for highly prospective mineralized systems at McIntyre Brook has been evidenced with the integration of soil geochemistry and geophysical data. In January 2024, the Company confirmed gold endowment in mineralized rhyolites in McIntyre Brook; the geology is consistent with the surrounding Puma/Kinross JV property. These results build positively on previously announced findings and enhance the potential for a gold-copper discovery at McIntyre Brook. Of note, a small test drill program was conducted in 2019; both holes were mineralized with a best intercept: 5.73 g/t Au in a broader 20 m zone of 1.20 g/t Au. New targets are being identified for further work in the upcoming 2025 Exploration Program.

The HeliTEM survey and soil geochemistry work completed in November 2024 at McIntyre Brook revealed EM conductors near gold-in-soil anomalies, suggesting potential nearby gold mineralization (refer to press releases dated October 15, 2024, and January 20, 2025).

Highlights

The Heliborne HeliTEM Survey revealed, among other aspects, the presence of a series of EM conductors in the northeastern part of the McIntyre Brook Property, which create an open ellipsoid over a significative area (refer to Figure 2).

The initial soil geochemical survey conducted in November 2024 at the periphery of the southeast and northeast area of the conductors revealed the presence of gold-in-soil anomalies associated with Arsenic (As), Antimony (Sb) and Tungsten (W) anomalies.

The area is also characterized by a 275 ppb Au stream sediment anomaly downstream from the conductive area. This sample was the highest value returned from the 1981 regional stream sampling program conducted in the area by the Geological Surveys Branch of the Government of New Brunswick.

These new results from McIntyre Brook reveal coincident gold-in-soil anomalies and prominent electromagnetic conductors, significantly enhancing the potential for a substantial gold-copper discovery. These promising targets are situated within the geologically favourable Wapske Formation, structurally defined by the McIntyre Brook and Ramsay Brook faults.

Furthermore, analysis of new HeliTEM magnetic and radiometric data has identified additional faulting and a coincident elevated radiometric signature, potentially indicative of rhyolites or hydrothermal activity-key indicators of significant gold mineralization in the Wapske Formation. Consequently, this area at McIntyre Brook has been designated a high-priority target for Gold Orogen's 2025 New Brunswick exploration program, offering considerable potential for a new gold discovery.

"It's satisfying to see Phase 1 of exploration in New Brunswick yield such encouraging results. The coincident geochemical and EM findings, along with the previously reported results at Riley Brook, clearly outline the path forward," comments Jonathan Hill, Director of the Board and Chair of the Technical Committee. "We'll be conducting soil sampling and trenching in both areas, which will help generate and ultimately test drill targets. We anticipate field crews will begin this work once we finalize the exploration plan."

With the complete dataset from the 2024 New Brunswick exploration program now received, target generation is progressing, and the 2025 exploration plan will be finalized in the coming weeks.





Figure 1: Gold Orogen - McIntyre Brook Airborne Magnetometer and Radiometric with superimposed soil Geochemical and Stream Sediments anomalies.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4064/243118_ed48d9edc4886827_004full.jpg











Figure 2: McIntyre Brook Soil Geochem Results.



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4064/243118_ed48d9edc4886827_005full.jpg

About Lode Gold

Lode Gold (TSXV: LOD) is an exploration and development company with projects in highly prospective and safe mining jurisdictions in Canada and the United States.

In Canada, its Golden Culvert and WIN Projects in Yukon, covering 99.5 km2 across a 27-km strike length, are situated in a district-scale, high grade gold mineralized trend within the southern portion of the Tombstone Gold Belt. A total of four RIRGS targets have been confirmed on the property. A NI 43-101 technical report has been completed in May 2024.

In New Brunswick, Lode Gold has created one of the largest land packages with its Acadian Gold JV Co; consisting of an area that spans 445 km2 and a 44 km strike. McIntyre Brook covers 111 km2 and a 17-km strike in the emerging Appalachian/Iapetus Gold Belt; it is hosted by orogenic rocks of similar age and structure as New Found Gold's Queensway Project. Riley Brook is a 335 km2 package covering a 26 km strike of Wapske formation with its numerous felsic units. A NI 43-101 technical report has been completed in August 2024.

In the United States, the Company is advancing its Fremont Gold project. This is a brownfield project with over 43,000 m drilled and 23 km of underground workings. It was previously mined at 10.7 g/t Au in the 1930's.

Mining was halted in 1942 due the gold mining prohibition in World War Two (WWII) just as it was ramping up production. Unlike typical brownfield projects that are mined out, only 8% of the veins have been exploited. The Company is the first owner to investigate an underground high grade mine potential at Fremont.

The project is located on 3,351 acres of private and patented land in Mariposa County. The asset is a 4 km strike on the prolific 190 km Mother Lode Gold Belt, California that produced over 50,000,000 oz of gold and is instrumental in the creation of the towns, the businesses and infrastructure in the 1800s gold rush. It is 1.5 hours from Fresno, California. The property has year-round road access and is close to airports and rail.

Previously, in March 2023 the company completed an NI 43 101 Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA"). A sensitivity to the March 31, 2023 PEA at USD $2,000/oz gold gives an after-tax NPV of USD $370M and a 31% IRR over an 11-year LOM. At $1,750 /oz gold, NPV (5%) is $217M. The project hosts an NI 43-101 resource of 1.16 Moz at 1.90 g/t Au within 19.0 MT Indicated and 2.02 Moz at 2.22 g/t Au within 28.3 MT Inferred. The MRE evaluates only 1.4 km of the 4 km strike of Fremont property. Three step-out holes at depth (up to 1200 m) hit structure and were mineralized.

All NI 43-101 technical reports are available on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and the Company's website (www.lode-gold.com)

QUALIFIED PERSON STATEMENT

The scientific and technical information contained in this press release has been reviewed and approved by Jonathan Victor Hill, Director, BSc (Hons) (Economic Geology - UCT), FAusIMM, and who is a "qualified person" as defined by NI-43-101.

ON BEHALF OF THE COMPANY

Wendy T. Chan, CEO & Director

Information Contact

Cautionary Note Related to this News Release and Figures

This news release contains information about adjacent properties on which the Company has no right to explore or mine. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits on adjacent properties are not indicative of mineral deposits on the Company's properties.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release includes "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the use of proceeds, advancement and completion of resource calculation, feasibility studies, and exploration plans and targets. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect", "potential", "target", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof.

Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management based on the business and markets in which the Company operates, are inherently subject to significant operational, economic, and competitive uncertainties, risks and contingencies. These include assumptions regarding, among other things: the status of community relations and the security situation on site; general business and economic conditions; the availability of additional exploration and mineral project financing; the supply and demand for, inventories of, and the level and volatility of the prices of metals; relationships with strategic partners; the timing and receipt of governmental permits and approvals; the timing and receipt of community and landowner approvals; changes in regulations; political factors; the accuracy of the Company's interpretation of drill results; the geology, grade and continuity of the Company's mineral deposits; the availability of equipment, skilled labour and services needed for the exploration and development of mineral properties; currency fluctuations; and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations include a deterioration of security on site or actions by the local community that inhibits access and/or the ability to productively work on site, actual exploration results, interpretation of metallurgical characteristics of the mineralization, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, delays or inability to receive required approvals, unknown impact related to potential business disruptions stemming from the COVID-19 outbreak, or another infectious illness, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators, including those described under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's most recently filed MD&A. The Company does not undertake to update or revise any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243118

SOURCE: Lode Gold Resources Inc.
Kingsway Financial Services Inc. (NYSE:KFS)("Kingsway" or the "Company") today announced that it will host an Investor Day following their Annual General Meeting of shareholders in New York City on Monday, May 19, 2025.

President and Chief Executive Officer, John T. Fitzgerald, along with Kent A. Hansen, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer and members of the management team will discuss a range of topics covering the Company's operations, long-term growth strategy and financial structure. Prepared presentations will begin at 9:30 am ET running until approximately midday.

Event Details

The investor day will take place at the New York Stock Exchange (RSVP required) and will also be available virtually at the investors section on the company website: www.kingsway-financial.com. Individuals interested in attending the in person investor day may RSVP by emailing James@HaydenIR.com.

A live webcast, including video, audio and presentation slides, will be accessible on www.kingsway-financial.com at the time of the meeting. Those who attend virtually will also have the opportunity to participate in the question-and-answer session following the presentation.

About the Company

Kingsway is a holding company that owns or controls subsidiaries primarily in the business services and extended warranty industries. The common shares of Kingsway are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "KFS."

The company serves the business services industry through its operating subsidiaries within its Kingsway Search Xcelerator ("KSX") segment:

B2B Services

Ravix Group (ravixgroup.com), CSuite Financial (Csuitefinancialpartners.com)

Image Solutions (istechology.com)

Healthcare Services

Digital Diagnostic Imaging (ddimagingusa.com)

Secure Nursing Services (securenursing.com)

Vertical Market Software

Systems Products International (spisoftware.com)

The company serves the extended warranty industry through its operating subsidiaries within its Extended Warranty segment:

Auto Warranty

IWS (iwsgroup.com)

Penn Warranty (pennwarranty.com)

Preferred Warranties (preferredwarranties.com)

HVAC/Facility Warranty

Trinity Warranty Solutions (trinitywarranty.com)

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may include "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that are not historical facts and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected and projected. Words such as "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "intends," "estimates," "seeks" and variations and similar words and expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements; however, the absence of any such words does not mean that a statement is a not a forward-looking statement. Such forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance, but reflect Kingsway management's current beliefs, based on information currently available. A number of factors could cause actual events, performance or results to differ materially from the events, performance and results discussed in the forward-looking statements. For information identifying important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Form 10-Qs and Form 8-Ks filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as expressly required by applicable securities law, the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Additional Information

Additional information about Kingsway, including a copy of its Annual Reports can be accessed on the EDGAR section of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's website at www.sec.gov, on the Canadian Securities Administrators' website at www.sedar.com, or through the Company's website at www.kingsway-financial.com.

Contact Information

For Company Inquiries:

Kent Hansen - CFO

khansen@kingsway-financial.com

312-766-2163

For Media Inquiries:

James Carbonara - Hayden IR

james@haydenir.com

646-755-7412

SOURCE: Kingsway Financial Services, Inc.
OSU President Jayathi Murthy engages with students, parents, and education counselors in Ho Chi Minh City

As Vietnam strengthens its position in semiconductors, advanced technology, and AI development, Oregon State University (OSU) is expanding opportunities for Vietnamese students to access world-class education, research experience, and global industry connections.

During her visit to Ho Chi Minh City, OSU President Jayathi Y. Murthy met with Vietnamese school students, parents, and education counselors, highlighting the university's globally recognized research, strong industry partnerships, and career-focused education that prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving tech sector.

"Vietnam's rapid growth in semiconductors, AI, and advanced technology is contributing to the future of global innovation, and Oregon State University is proud to support this transformation," said Murthy.

NVIDIA, a world leader in accelerated computing, recently announced its first Vietnam research and development center, signaling its confidence in the country's AI future.

"These are exciting times for Vietnam and its vast pool of talented young people. At OSU, we provide students with access to cutting-edge research, industry collaboration, and career pathways that align with Vietnam's aspirations in high-tech manufacturing, digital transformation, and engineering," said Murthy.

A top U.S. research university with strong ties to Vietnam's tech future

OSU is ranked among the top 1.4% of universities worldwide and is home to nearly 38,000 students, including over 80 students from Vietnam. The university is recognized for its excellence in engineering, computer science, AI, robotics, and sustainability research - areas that align with Vietnam's ambitions in semiconductor manufacturing, AI-driven automation, and technological innovation.

Through its global research collaborations and deep industry connections, OSU serves as a preferred hiring partner for global technology leaders, including NVIDIA, Intel, Amazon, Google, and Tesla. These partnerships offer students hands-on experience, direct engagement with industry experts, and pathways to careers in high-demand fields.

"OSU is committed to expanding access to high-quality education for talented Vietnamese students. The university now offers four-year undergraduate scholarships for all residents of Vietnam accepted for admission, and for top-performing students (3.75 GPA+), OSU covers the additional cost for the prestigious undergraduate Honors College," said Bob Gilmour, Executive Director of INTO OSU - the on-campus education hub founded in 2008, to support and increase the number of international students at OSU. "We provide dedicated academic and career support to international students to help them achieve success and maximise the return on their investment."

Advancing research and innovation in semiconductors, AI, and sustainability

OSU is a leader in AI, semiconductors, and robotics research, housing the largest Computer Science program in the U.S. and ranking among the top institutions for engineering and high-performance computing. One of its most ambitious projects is the Jen-Hsun Huang and Lori Mills Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex, made possible by more than $100 million in philanthropic investments, including a $50 million gift from OSU alumni couple Jen-Hsun Huang, NVIDIA Founder and CEO, Lori Mills Huang. Set to open in 2026, the facility will house one of the most powerful supercomputers at a U.S. academic institution, advancing research in AI, sustainability, climate science, and beyond.

The initiative is being driven by the OSU Foundation. "We are committed to engaging the university's dynamic international network of alumni and supporters to help strengthen OSU's ability to address global challenges," said Shawn L. Scoville, President & CEO of OSU Foundation. "Through our US$1.75 billion 'Believe It' fundraising and engagement campaign, we are investing in OSU's students, faculty and groundbreaking infrastructure that positions OSU as a global leader in AI, sustainability, and engineering."

For more information about OSU's research and education opportunities, visit: www.oregonstate.edu

For more on OSU Foundation's global impact, visit: www.fororegonstate.org

Media contact:

Davinder Kumar

VP, Corporate & Public Relations

INTO University Partnerships

davinder.kumar@intoglobal.com

SOURCE: Oregon State University
Join Medical Component Specialists at AAOS 2025 in San Diego from March 10-14. Stop by Booth 5529 to learn about our Quick Ship ProtoLab.

Medical Component Specialists is thrilled to be heading to San Diego for the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2025 Annual Meeting , taking place from March 10th to 14th. As one of the largest gatherings in orthopedic medicine, this event provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge innovations, and gain valuable insights into the future of musculoskeletal healthcare.

QuickShip ProtoLAB at AAOS 2025



For more than 90 years, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has been dedicated to advancing orthopedic education and improving patient outcomes. AAOS 2025 continues this tradition by offering a robust lineup of expert-led presentations, hands-on workshops, and a dynamic Exhibit Hall featuring the latest surgical techniques and medical technologies. Attendees will have the chance to network with top professionals, engage in career development opportunities, and witness live demonstrations of groundbreaking procedures in the OrthoDome.

This year at AAOS 2025, MCS is excited to showcase its latest innovation at Booth 5529:

Quick Ship Protolab - a high-speed manufacturing service designed to support your R&D and proof-of-concept needs. With a rapid response team and dedicated engineering support, we collaborate closely to bring your designs to life in as little as one to three weeks. Protolab accelerates your proof of concept and time to market, streamlining design validation and regulatory submissions. Whether you need quick iterations or a functional prototype for testing, our team is ready to deliver precision and speed. Realize your next innovation with Protolab-because your next breakthrough shouldn't wait!

Our Quick Ship ProtoLab service is supported by our in-house manufacturing capabilities. Each component is made in the USA, adheres to ISO 13485 implantable medical device manufacturing standards, and is made from materials that meet ASTM standards. In addition, components are FDA-registered with full lot traceability.

Stop by Booth 5529 to discover how MCS can help bring orthopedic device concepts to life faster than ever before. If you haven't registered for AAOS 2025 yet, there's still time- secure your spot today . MCS looks forward to seeing you in San Diego!

SOURCE: Medical Components Specialists, Inc.
BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Huawei Global Digital Power Summit was held at MWC 2025 with the theme of "AI Powering a Greener ICT." Operators, leading enterprises, industry leaders, and industry experts from around the world attended the event to share their cutting-edge viewpoints and insights, exploring new development opportunities in the era of All Intelligence.

At the event, Charles Yang, Senior Vice President of Huawei and President of Global Marketing, Sales and Services, Huawei Digital Power, stressed that the world has made significant achievements in carbon emissions reduction over the past few years, but the climate crisis remains a major challenge for humankind. The total carbon emissions of the telecom industry are about 600 million tons, accounting for 2% of the global total. In the journey to carbon neutrality, telecom operators are facing three major challenges: increased emissions, high energy consumption, and rising energy costs. Huawei Digital Power integrates digital and power electronics technologies to provide all-scenario low-carbon solutions, helping them transform from energy consumers to energy producers and enablers.

According to Charles Yang, a number of mainstream operators around the world have not only saved energy and reduced carbon emissions, but also cut their energy OPEX with the help of Huawei. They also participated in the electricity market through virtual power plants (VPPs) to gain extra benefits and find the "second curve" of business growth. In Pakistan, Huawei provided a PV plus energy storage system (ESS) solution to help customers replace gensets with PV power systems, reducing the fuel consumption per site by 96%. The green transformation of 1000 sites is expected to cut the energy OPEX by 38%. In the Czech Republic, Huawei helps operators extend the backup time and increase revenue by participating electricity market based on the same site ESS. In Finland, Huawei has helped a telecom operator aggregate ESSs at telecom sites and in residential, commercial, and industrial scenarios to participate in frequency response services in the electricity market, significantly boosting the revenue. In China's Inner Mongolia, Huawei proposed its subsystem decoupling solution to upgrade an AI data center, helping the customer roll out large language model services rapidly.

According to Charles Yang, Huawei Digital Power has helped customers in the ICT industry generate 2.28 billion kWh of green power and save 81.6 billion kWh of electricity, equivalent to reducing carbon emissions by 39.86 million tons and planting 54.46 million trees.

At the summit, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Huawei jointly released White Paper on Lithium Batteries for Telecom Sites*, the first of its kind in the world. The white paper advocates the use of "high-quality lithium batteries", requires that batteries offer excellent performance parameters, and emphasizes the importance of end-to-end safety system construction. The white paper also analyzes the safety issues of lithium batteries in telecom sites, shares the global latest research results and best practices in lithium battery safety, and provides guidelines for promoting the safe, reliable, and efficient application of lithium batteries in the communications industry.

Reyna ubeda, Engineer to ITU-T SG5: Environment, EMF, Climate Action and Circular Economy, stated that, the standardization sector of the International Telecommunication Union is developing standards to enable environmental efficiency in the ICT sector. High-quality and Safe Lithium Batteries are important to enable more efficient energy storage and usage in telecom sites, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint of ICT operations.

The Data Center Lithium-ion Battery Safety Application White Paper was also released to promote the standardized and large-scale application of lithium-ion batteries in the data center industry.

A new age of All Intelligence is coming fast, with AI applications and numerous intelligent scenarios presenting new opportunities and challenges in energy consumption, while creating a great development prospect for the global ICT industry. Huawei Digital Power will continuously invest in innovation and work with global like-minded partners to create new business value and build a better, greener future.

* Please download the white paper here: https://www.itu.int/en/ITU-T/studygroups/2025-2028/05/Documents/Reports/2025-03-WhitePaper-LithiumBatteries-TelecomSites.pdf

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2632102/Picture1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2632103/Picture2.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/itu-and-huawei-jointly-release-the-white-paper-on-lithium-batteries-for-telecom-sites-302390644.html
Toronto, Ontario and New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Micromem Technologies Inc. (CSE: MRM) (OTCQB: MMTIF) ("Micromem" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the Research Collaboration Agreement (the "Agreement") between the Company, University of Toronto (UofT) and Department of National Defence (DND) is finalized and executed. This follows our press release of February 10th where we announced the collaboration with the University of Toronto ("UofT"), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada ("NSERC"), Defence Research and Development Canada ("DRDC") and Micromem, (collectively "Alliance").

The Agreement is for the project, "Development of a Nanowire Field Effect Transistor Biochemical Sensor" (the "Project") led by Professor Ruda of the UofT. The Project commenced approximately 2 years prior with promising developments achieved to date on cutting-edge technology for the military and industrial applications in the field of state-of-the-art biochemical sensors. One of the industrial applications now being reviewed is the technological use along the Canadian border to monitor and locate fentanyl and other illegal substances.

The proposal with the Alliance-DND program is aimed at the development of sensors for dual use - both civilian and military. The objective is to develop miniaturized (portable), low-cost, efficient, and selective sensors based on InAs nanowires that can be deployed on both aqueous and gas-based platforms for a wide variety of analytes. The Project is based on the recent success in demonstrating the use of such sensors to detect ethanol vapour down to the single molecule range. The partners in the Project are Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) Suffield Research Centre and Micromem. A sensor with the ability to distinguish multiple species can serve as a protection to the end-user when exposed to dangerous gases or hold use in biological cases where one wishes to identify specific molecules with unprecedented accuracy. This partnership has potential to satisfy applications in various industries such as environmental monitoring for industrial, agricultural, or home safety (e.g., NH2, C02, or H2S monitoring); sensing of harmful contaminants or chemical warfare agents (CWAs) in national security and defense applications; detection of biomarkers or diseases as a biological in-solution sensor - with extreme usefulness in drug screening and DNA sequencing. Such sensors, having a wide range of applicability and practicality, such as analysis techniques related to distinguishing components in a sample analyte or methodologies to enhance sensor sensitivity, should prove useful for many Canadian industries. Moreover, the sensors benefits can also contribute to positive impacts on the environment, well-being of the end-users, as well as financial prosperity for the industries involved. Upon completion of this Project, Micromem will have the means to construct their own measurement systems for the portable uses, including civilian applications such as detection of volatile organic carbons (VOCs) - while DRDC will benefit heavily from in-field use and implementation of the manufactured devices.

About Micromem.

Micromem Technologies Inc. and its subsidiaries, a publicly traded (OTCQB: MMTIF) (CSE: MRM), company analyzes specific industry sectors to create intelligent game-changing applications that address unmet market needs. By leveraging its expertise and experience with sophisticated sensor applications, the Company successfully powers the development and implementation of innovative solutions for oil & gas, utilities, automotive, healthcare, government, information technology, manufacturing and other industries. Visit www.micromeminc.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements. In particular, factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include: our inability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms; risk that our products and services will not gain widespread market acceptance; continued consumer adoption of digital technology; inability to compete with others who provide comparable products; the failure of our technology; the infringement of our technology with proprietary rights of third parties; inability to respond to consumer and technological demands; inability to replace significant customers; seasonal nature of our business; and other risks detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made and are not guarantees of future performance. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements. When used in this document, the words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "project," "plan," "should," "intend," "may," "will," "would," "potential," and similar expressions may be used to identify forward-looking statements.

The CSE or any other securities regulatory authority has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release that has been prepared by management.

###

Listing: OTCQB - Symbol: MMTIF

CSE - Symbol: MRM

Shares issued: 584,366,086

SEC File No: 0-26005

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243120

SOURCE: Micromem Technologies Inc.
NACON ANNOUNCES EDGE OF MEMORIES, THE NEW JRPG FROM MIDGAR STUDIO





The French studio reveals the first details of its new project set in the universe of Edge of Eternity

Lesquin, 25 February 2025 - NACON and Midgar Studio are pleased to announce Edge of Memories, the new project set in the universe of Edge of Eternity. Released in 2021, this indie JRPG made in France has captivated over 1 million players worldwide on PC and consoles. With Edge of Memories, players will be able to embark on a new adventure in the world of Heryon in Fall 2025 on PlayStation5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam).

Based in Montpellier in the south of France, Midgar is a small-scale studio made up of developers who are passionate about Japanese role-playing games and want to take their passion even further. With Edge of Memories, they offer players a new adventure that is accessible to both fans and newcomers, combining the richness of JRPGs with an artistic touch inspired by French animation. This epic third-person Action RPG was created in collaboration with renowned artists in the genre, including character designer Raita Kazama (Xenoblade Chronicles X), writer Sawako Natori (NieR), singer Emi Evans (NieR / NieR: Automata), as well as composers Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Trigger / Xenogears) and Mariam Abounnasr (Xenoblade Chronicles 3 / ONINAKI).



This new installment takes place on the continent of Avaris, where a plague called the Corrosion turns wildlife and humans into abominations. Eline, a young itinerant Soul Whisperer, roams the land, using her fantastic abilities to heal the tormented inhabitants. Developed with Unreal Engine 5, Edge of Memories immerses players in the heart of an exciting epic that pays tribute to the JRPG genre. The game features a vibrant and colorful world, as well as a story that explores powerful themes such as the exodus of peoples, a world plagued by disease, the quest for origins, and the need to adapt to an ever-changing environment.





With dynamic gameplay and real-time combat, Edge of Memories offers a decidedly action-oriented experience: to achieve victory, players must master Eline's abilities, chain spectacular combos with her two companions, and awaken the devastating power of the Berserk that lies dormant within her.



"We are thrilled to expand the world of the Edge of franchise with a new installment that takes on a fresh artistic direction and marks a turning point in gameplay, shifting from the strategic turn-based style of its predecessor in favor of a more dynamic and immersive Action RPG approach. As true JRPG enthusiasts, we have poured a lot of love into this project, and we can't wait to share it with both fans of the genre and newcomers alike." says Jeremy Zeler-Maury, CEO of Midgar Studio.

***

Edge of Memories will be available on PlayStation5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam) in Fall 2025.

--

Check out the Edge of Memories Steam page



All NACON games and accessories: nacongaming.com



-



Press Contacts:

Dead Good PR, nacon@deadgoodmedia.com

NACON - Vianney Jouve, vjouve@nacon.fr

About NACON

A company within the BIGBEN group, NACON was created in 2019 to optimize its expertise and leverage synergies in the video game market. Comprising 16 development studios, AA game publishing, and the design and distribution of premium gaming peripherals, NACON brings 40 years of experience to benefit the world's gaming community. This unified center of excellence strengthens NACON's position in the market and creates unique opportunities for innovation and competitive advantages. www.corporate.nacongaming.com



About Midgar Studio

Midgar Studio is a game development company located in Montpellier, one of France's sunniest cities. A small-scale studio, it is made up of a team of passionate Japanese role-playing game enthusiasts who use their expertise to create immersive and captivating worlds. Whether it's futuristic worlds like Hover or heroic-fantasy like Edge of Eternity and Edge of Memories, Midgar Studio is committed to providing refreshing gaming experiences that allow players to explore original universes. Always attentive to its community, the studio stays close to players and constantly strives to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Since 2022, NACON, one of Europe's leading video game publishers, has held a 100% stake in the company. For more information, visit www.midgar-studio.com.

Attachment
Dan Simkowitz, Co-President of Morgan Stanley, will speak at the Annual Morgan Stanley European Financials Conference which will be held in London, UK, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. GMT (7:00 a.m. ET).

Clare Woodman, Head of Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), Latin America and Canada, and CEO of Morgan Stanley Co. International and Sharon Yeshaya, Chief Financial Officer, will participate in a fireside chat on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. GMT (12:00 p.m. ET).

Both live and on-demand versions of the webcast will be available on www.morganstanley.com in the Investor Relations section.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) is a leading global financial services firm providing a wide range of investment banking, securities, wealth management and investment management services. With offices in 42 countries, the Firm's employees serve clients worldwide including corporations, governments, institutions and individuals. For further information about Morgan Stanley, please visit www.morganstanley.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250303746842/en/

Contacts:

Media Relations: Wesley McDade, 212.761.2430

Investor Relations: Leslie Bazos, 212.761.5352
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Voyageur Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (TSXV: VM) (OTC Pink: VYYRF) ("Voyageur" or the "Company") wishes to clarify the terms of a distribution and wholesaling agreement (the "Agreement") it previously announced on May 28, 2024, and referred to subsequently in news releases dated January 15 and 23, 2025.

On May 28, 2024, the Company issued a news release in which it announced the Agreement with a sales commitment of USD $1.9 million (CAD $2.6M), over the first three (3) years of commercialization with a company specializing in the sale of radiology products in Latin America. At the time, Voyageur disclosed that the Agreement granted the distributor marketing and sales rights in two countries, for SmoothX 2%, a contrast medium for use in abdominal Computed Tomography (CT) diagnostic examinations. Voyageur further disclosed that the estimated contract value was determined based on management's expectations with respect to sales volumes during the term of the Agreement.

On January 15, 2025, the Company issued a news release recapping significant achievements in 2024, including that it had secured a CAD $2.7 million sales distribution contract for SmoothX 2% Barium Contrast, consolidating its market presence in Latin America. The Company advised that regulatory approvals are in progress which will allow the commencement of sales targeted for 2H 2025.

On January 23, 2025, the Company issued a news release regarding various matters which included a reference to Voyageur completing a CAD $2.7 million sales contract on May 28, 2024. The Company recognizes that the terms 'sales' and 'completing' are misleading and more descriptive terms should have been used such as 'distribution and wholesaling', and 'signed' or 'entered into'.

Voyageur would like to clarify that the Agreement is a distribution and wholesaling agreement, and not a sales contract. The Company would like to further clarify that no sales volumes are specified in the Agreement so that the company specializing in the sale of radiology products in Latin America is under no obligation to purchase any of Voyageur's products pursuant to the Agreement, and that to date, no orders have been placed or fulfilled under the Agreement.

About Voyageur Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Voyageur, a Canadian public company trading under the symbol VM on the TSXV, is in development of barium and iodine Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients and intends to offer high-performance, cost-effective imaging contrast agents. With a strategic focus on vertically integrating the barium and iodine contrast markets, Voyageur aims to become a key player by producing its own barium, iodine and new endohedral fullerene drugs (C60). Voyageur has developed five barium contrast products that have Health Canada licenses.

Voyageur's business plan is set to generate cash flow by partnering with established third-party GMP pharmaceutical manufacturers in Canada thereby ensuring the validation of its products by regulatory agencies worldwide. As Voyageur solidifies its presence in the market, it plans to transition into a high-margin domestic manufacturer of radiology drugs, complementing the planned revenue streams.

At the core of its operations, Voyageur owns 100% interest in the Frances Creek barium sulphate (barite) project. Currently, the world's pharmaceutical barium sulphate is almost entirely synthetically produced which management believes results in a less effective imaging quality product. Voyageur's Frances Creek resource boasts a rare and exceptional grade mineral suitable for the pharmaceutical marketplace that Voyageur believes will replace the current synthetic products with higher quality lower cost imaging products.

Voyageur's ambitious vision is to become the first vertically integrated company in the radiology contrast media drug market. By controlling all primary input costs, from the sourcing of raw materials to final production, Voyageur intends to ensure quality and cost efficiency. With its approach, it embodies the motto of "From the Earth to the Bottle," highlighting Voyageur's commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable manufacturing practices.

For Further Information:

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements"), including without limitation, the Company's business plans, regulatory approval and whether the Agreement will result in any sales of the Company's products. Forward-looking statements normally contain words like "will", "intend", "anticipate", "could", "should", "may", "might", "expect", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "potential", "project", "assume", "contemplate", "believe", "shall", "scheduled", and similar terms. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, actions, or developments and are based on expectations, assumptions, and other factors that management currently believes are relevant, reasonable, and appropriate in the circumstances. Although management believes that the forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, actual results could be substantially different due to the risks and uncertainties associated with and inherent to Voyageur's business. Additional material risks and uncertainties applicable to the forward-looking statements herein include, without limitation, the impact of general economic conditions, and unforeseen events and developments. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company's forward-looking statements. Many of these factors are beyond the control of Voyageur. All forward-looking statements included in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as at the date hereof, and Voyageur undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in its most recent filings. They are otherwise disclosed in its filings with securities regulatory authorities available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243092

SOURCE: Voyageur Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Pasofino Gold Limited (TSXV: VEIN) (OTCQB: EFRGF) (FSE: N07A) ("Pasofino" or the "Company") alerts shareholders to the acquisition by Nioko Resources Corporation (the "Bidder") of control of Hummingbird Resources PLC (the "Acquisition") pursuant to the exercise of a subscription option that was completed on January 7, 2025. Further particulars of the Acquisition can be found at https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/market-news/form-8-dd-hummingbird/16841491.

As a result of the Acquisition and a cash offer by the Bidder to the shareholders of Hummingbird that was commenced contemporaneously with the Acquisition, the listing of the ordinary shares of Hummingbird were cancelled from trading on AIM today. Further particulars of the cancellation can be found at https://www.research-tree.com/newsfeed/article/aim-cancellation-hummingbird-resources-plc-2751337.

The Company notes that the Bidder has not filed in the time and manner required an early warning report, press release or insider report (in each case as required by Canadian securities laws) in respect of the Acquisition's effect on the beneficial ownership of, or control or direction over, Pasofino.

The board of directors (the "Board") of Pasofino is of the view that the Acquisition is an indirect take-over bid of Pasofino and will be notifying the applicable securities regulators of the situation. In addition, the Board is of the view that the Acquisition constitutes a flip-in event under Pasofino's shareholder rights plan (the "Rights Plan") since Hummingbird, which beneficially owns or exercises control or direction of more than 50% of the shares of the Company, is now an affiliate of the Bidder which results in the Bidder becoming an "Acquiring Person" (as defined in the Rights Plan).

As a result of the flip-in event, each right issued to a shareholder (other than Hummingbird) under the Rights Plan would have separated and become exercisable ten trading days after January 8, 2025. Based on the January 7, 2025 acquisition date, each right entitles the holder to acquire 629.92 shares of Pasofino (having a value of C$360) for C$90 resulting in a effective exercise price of C$0.1428 per share. The Company is in contact with its rights agent to give effect to the terms of the Rights Plan and with the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") to have the rights listed for trading on the TSXV and the common shares of the Company issued upon exercise of the rights listed on the TSXV.

The Company understands that the Bidder is a subsidiary of Coris Invest Group (CIG) led by Burkinabe businessman Idrissa Nassa and advised by Sebastien de Montessus.

In addition, the Company received a letter from Hummingbird advising that Dan Betts and Tom Hill have confirmed their willingness to resign from the Board of Directors of Pasofino and that Hummingbird wishes to designate Geoff Eyre and Oumar Toguyeni as their replacements. However, the Company has not yet received resignation letters from Dan Betts and Tom Hill and thus is not in a position to consider the request at this time.

All dollar amounts are presented in Canadian dollars.

Chief Executive Officer, Brett A. Richards, stated: "Given the very strong interest in the Dugbe Gold Project from third parties in the recent months, including discussions on partnerships, potential acquisition(s) and attractive project financing, the Company is taking steps to protect its minority shareholders and to allow the Company to realize robust shareholder value from the results of these discussions. Given the quality of the project and the stable and supportive jurisdiction in which the Company operates, the Board believes that the current market valuation of Pasofino is significantly undervalued and it is apparent from the interest and preliminary offers received from bona fide suitors that we need to structure a process that realizes maximum value for our shareholders."

ABOUT PASOFINO GOLD LTD.

Pasofino Gold Limited is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company listed on the TSXV (VEIN).

Pasofino, through its wholly owned subsidiary, owns 100% of the Dugbe Gold Project (prior to the issuance of the Government of Liberia's 10% carried interest).

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterised by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "indicate", "may", "will", "should" and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions "could" or "might" occur, and include, without limitation, statements regarding any potential transaction involving the Company or the Dugbe Gold Project. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to, the ability to execute its strategic initiatives; the ability to advance the Dugbe Gold Project; the ability to apply the proceeds as intended; the ability to obtain requisite regulatory approvals, including from the TSX Venture Exchange and relevant authorities; the results of exploration and business activities; fluctuations in commodity prices; geopolitical risks; the availability and timing of external financing on acceptable terms; operational and logistical challenges; and the risks outlined in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis as filed on SEDAR+. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243143

SOURCE: Pasofino Gold Limited
amnis, a Zurich, Switzerland-based fintech company providing an international banking platform, raised CHF 10M in funding.

The round was led by Swisscom Ventures. In conjunction with the funding, Semih Kacan, Investment Director at Swisscom Ventures, joined as a new Board member. Peter Gerlach has been appointed as the new President of the Board.

The company intends to use the funds to consolidate its position in existing markets while accelerating expansion into new ones, and integrate accounting systems and ERP functionalities from third-party providers.

Founded in 2014 by Michael Wust (CEO), Robert Bloch (COO), and Philippe Christen (CFO), amnis is dedicated to facilitating international business for SMEs, a sector with vast potential that is often underserved by traditional banks. It brings global transaction banking to SMEs across Europe, including transparent currency exchange, cross-border and local payments, real-time transfers, and local accounts in Switzerland, Germany, Great Britain, and the US.

Currently, amnis serves more than 3000 companies from over 35 countries. The company plans to start business operations in additional European countries and to enhance its services, including e-commerce solutions, additional accounting integrations, and embedded card solutions.

FinSMEs

03/03/2025
Once in a while, we come across a technology that changes the paradigm.

If anything, blockchain is one of those innovations reshaping industries beyond imagination; its potential to create secure, decentralized, and tamper-proof records goes far beyond cryptocurrencies. 

Whether it is finances, healthcare, supply chain management, or real estate, blockchain is silently transforming how industries function and how people interact with systems they have relied upon for many years. Today, decentralized finance (DeFi) allows businesses like theirs to access funding without jumping through bureaucratic hoops. These highlight how blockchain has embedded itself into the evolving world.

Blockchain Shaping Industries

Far from the speculative and fringe industry it once seemed to be, blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies have grown to be a true disruptor. Across industries like eCommerce and real estate, the adoption of blockchain payments has been warmly embraced.

Another key industry in which blockchain has been a true game-changer is gaming. From the revolutionary concept of play-to-earn games to specialized gambling platforms, the gaming industry has been a leader in crypto adoption. In iGaming especially, players have been complaining for years about rigged games, delayed payouts, and seedy operators. However, with the rise of crypto iGaming platforms like an Ethereum casino, the rules are changing for the better.

These platforms offer crypto betting and use blockchain payment systems. As a result, they are able to provide instant payouts, fewer restrictions, and niche services like anonymous betting. With all this going for it, crypto and blockchain have now evolved through Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and are fast reshaping the venture capital industry too.

Increased Accessibility and Democratization

For decades, venture capital (VC) was an exclusive club. The biggest deals were reserved for institutional investors and wealthy insiders. Blockchain is tearing down those walls. By enabling tokenizationwhere ownership stakes can be divided into smaller, tradeable digital assetsmore people can invest in promising startups. A software developer in Kenya or a student in Brazil can now back the next big tech company without needing millions in capital.

Crowdfunding platforms built on blockchain technology are helping new businesses capture the attention of potential investors. Businessmen no longer have to depend on conventional venture capital companies. They can source money from potential supporters worldwide who believe in their dreams. This is helping develop innovations in previously neglected fields like dApps and green tech.

Enhanced Transparency and Security

A major frustration in traditional VC is the lack of transparency. Investors often have little insight into how funds are managed, and startups struggle with complex paperwork and long approval processes. Blockchain solves these issues by making every transaction visible and verifiable.

With smart contracts, agreements are executed automatically when predefined conditions are met. No need for intermediaries, no room for disputes. Investors know exactly where their money is going, and startups receive funds without unnecessary delays. This trust factor is a game-changer, reducing fraud and streamlining investment processes.

Faster and More Efficient Funding

Ask any startup founder about their biggest challenge, and fundraising is likely near the top of the list. Traditional funding rounds can take months, with endless meetings, legal negotiations, and paperwork slowing things down. Blockchain dramatically speeds up this process.

Instead of waiting for VC firms to make decisions, startups can raise funds through initial coin offerings (ICOs) or security token offerings (STOs). These blockchain-based fundraising methods allow investors to buy digital tokens that represent equity or future profits. Smart contracts handle the transaction process, eliminating the need for banks and legal teams to mediate every step. This efficiency is particularly valuable for tech companies that need to move fast to stay ahead.

Improved Liquidity

Investing in startups has traditionally required patience. Early backers often have to wait years before they can cash outeither through an acquisition or an initial public offering (IPO). Blockchain is introducing liquidity to venture capital by enabling secondary markets for tokenized assets.

Imagine an investor who backed a startup through a blockchain-based VC fund. Instead of waiting a decade for an exit, they can sell their stake on a decentralized exchange whenever they choose. This flexibility makes VC investments more attractive and reduces risk, as investors can adjust their portfolios as market conditions change.

Global Reach and Reduced Costs

Geography has always been another barrier in traditional investing. A promising startup in Africa might struggle to attract investors in Silicon Valley due to regulatory hurdles and banking limitations. Blockchain eliminates these barriers. By enabling cross-border transactions without intermediaries, it allows startups to tap into a global investor base.

At the same time, blockchain significantly reduces costs. Venture capital deals typically involve hefty legal and administrative fees. Smart contracts automate much of this work, cutting expenses and making investing more accessible to a broader audience.

The Role of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs)

Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) are adding another layer of innovation to venture capital. These blockchain-powered groups operate without a central authority, allowing members to vote on investment decisions collectively. Unlike traditional VC firms, where a handful of partners control funding, DAOs distribute power more evenly among participants.

The concept isnt just theoretical and has become a new trend in the industry. DAOs like Flamingo and BitDAO are already making substantial investments in startups and blockchain projects. While early iterations faced challengessuch as the infamous hack of The DAO in 2016new governance models have improved security and efficiency. As DAOs mature, they could redefine how venture funding works, shifting control from centralized institutions to decentralized communities.

Blockchains Impact on Startup Ecosystems

Beyond funding, blockchain is influencing how startups operate day-to-day. Smart contracts can automate payroll, ensuring employees and freelancers are paid on time without relying on banks. Intellectual property rights can be securely recorded on the blockchain, preventing theft and disputes. Even supply chain tracking is becoming more efficient, allowing startups to verify product authenticity and streamline logistics.

This broader integration means blockchain isnt just about how startups raise moneyits about how they function and grow. Businesses that adopt blockchain solutions may find themselves better positioned to attract investment, as transparency and efficiency become increasingly valuable to investors.

Challenges and Regulatory Considerations

Of course, blockchain-based VC isnt without challenges. Regulations around digital assets are still evolving, and different countries have different rules regarding security tokens and decentralized finance. Compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations remains a hurdle, though progress is being made.

Security is another concern. While blockchain itself is secure, vulnerabilities exist in smart contracts and crypto wallets. High-profile hacks have highlighted the risks, underscoring the need for robust security measures. Investors must remain cautious and conduct due diligence before committing funds to blockchain-based ventures.

The Future of Venture Capital with Blockchain

The idea of a world where anyone, anywhere, can invest in the next Google or Teslawithout middlemen or outdated financial systemsmay no longer be a fantasy. With blockchain paving the way, the future of venture capital looks more inclusive, efficient, and transparent than ever. While challenges remain, the momentum is undeniable.

Incorporating blockchain technology into established systems may require significant investment and time, as it often necessitates a revamp of existing infrastructures but its definitely doable. One thing is certain: the venture capital industry will never be the same again.
Talking about his project, he says, I have always loved being a part of projects that look to disrupt. read more

After his stellar performance in Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein Season 2, which received immense love worldwide from fans and audiences, Tahir Raj Bhasin will be seen in Netflixs upcoming compelling mystery.

Talking about his project, he says, I have always loved being a part of projects that look to disrupt. This thriller-mystery web series is everything you want from an edge-of-the-seat entertainer that will surprise you at every step of the way.

Thanking his producer and director, he says," Im thrilled that someone as acclaimed as Siddharth P. Malhotra and my director Rensil D Silva felt I would be the perfect choice to fit their vision. I have been a huge fan of their work, and it is an honour for me to join hands with them. This series also brings some of the best actors in the industry together for the first time, and Im looking forward to working with them. Im sure we would be able to creatively collaborate brilliantly on set to bring this story to life."

He adds, Im grateful that my last project with Netflix, Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein, which is also my franchise on streaming, became a blockbuster. So, Im sure people will expect a lot from my association with Netflix again, and Im very bullish about this project. Its an insane mystery.

The show features an all-star cast and is produced by the acclaimed Siddharth P. Malhotra, director of Maharaj, and Sapna Malhotra of Alchemy Productions. Written and directed by the visionary Rensil DSilva of Rang De Basanti and Ungli fame, this currently untitled series promises a gripping blend of intrigue and suspense.

Netflix is set to bring another thrilling mystery to its audience with a star-studded cast, featuring Parineeti Chopra and Jennifer Winget alongside Soni Razdan, Harleen Sethi, Anup Soni, Sumeet Vyas, and Chaitanya Choudhry.
With its poignant storytelling and ground-breaking representation, We Are Faheem & Karun promises to be a landmark moment in contemporary queer and Kashmiri cinema read more

Renowned filmmaker Onir, a champion of queer narratives and indie cinema, is thrilled to announce that his latest film, We Are Faheem & Karun, will be screened at the 39th edition of the prestigious BFI Flare on March 20 and 22, 2025.

Onir shared his excitement, stating, This will be the international premiere of our film and the first time a Kashmiri language film, shot entirely in the border regions of Gurez, Kashmir, is showing at the festival. The film would also be the first queer narrative from the Valley. A love story set in Gurez, Kashmir between a security guard at a construction site, Karun, from Kerala, and a local Kashmiri college student, Faheem.

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The films inclusion at BFI Flare marks a significant moment for Kashmiri representation in global cinema. Onir emphasized the importance of this milestone, adding, I am proud that my Kashmiri cast members too will be present at the screening in London. Representation is very important for me. Apart from lead Akash Menon from Kerala, the film features Kashmiri actors Mir Tawseef, Mir Salman, Bashir Lone, and Sana Javeid.

Acclaimed filmmaker Deepa Mehta, who is presenting We Are Faheem & Karun, expressed her admiration for the film, saying, I am proud to be presenting We Are Faheem & Karun. This film touched me deeply with its themes of love, friendship, and duty, set against a backdrop of geopolitical conflict. We all must remember our humanity in todays challenging world, and films like this are so important for shining light through.

With its poignant storytelling and ground-breaking representation, We Are Faheem & Karun promises to be a landmark moment in contemporary queer and Kashmiri cinema.
Youth Congress worker Himani Narwal, 22, was found dead in a suitcase on a highway in Haryanas Rohtak on Sunday. The arrested accused, Sachin, knew the deceased and accused Narwal of blackmailing and extortion read more

Himani Narwals body was found inside a suitcase near a flyover next to the Sampla bus stand in Rohtak. Image Courtesy: X

A suspicious suitcase was found lying on the highway in Haryanas Rohtak district on Sunday.

After arriving at the spot, the police opened the suitcase only to find a womans body stuffed inside.

The deceased was identified as Himani Narwal, a Youth Congress worker who rose to fame after participating in Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Yatra.

Her family, who has been demanding justice, has suspected that the murder could be an insiders job, some party leaders were jealous of her swift rise in party ranks.

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Lets take a closer look.

The murder

Himani Narwals body was found inside a suitcase near a flyover next to the Sampla bus stand in Rohtak on March 1.

The 22-year-old, who had been residing in her ancestral house in the districts Vijaynagar for the past five months, had been missing for three days.

She reportedly attended a wedding on February 27 in Rohtak and was supposed to attend a Congress roadshow in the Kathmandi area on February 28.

Her cell phone has been switched off since then.

According to a preliminary investigation, she was likely assaulted before being strangled to death, police said, as per The Indian Express. The autopsy was conducted in Rohtaks PGIMS, and the report is awaited.

Rohtak Superintendent of police Narendra Bijarniya was quoted by the publication as saying, The Rohtak Crime Branch is investigating the case, along with multiple teams of the Rohtak Police. A board of doctors has been constituted for the postmortem examination, which will be videographed.

Inspector Bijendra Singh, SHO of Sampla police station, said: We are analysing CCTV footage from the 25-kilometre stretch on National Highway 9, from Rohtak City to Rohad toll plaza. CCTV footage from hotels and dhabas along the stretch are also being checked.

Further investigation is underway, police said.

Narwal had been associated with Youth Congress for the past few years.

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An active person on social media platforms, she has posted several pictures and videos on her account. In one of the videos, she could be seen dancing at a wedding function.

Also read: How murder of man who accused former Telangana CM KCR of corruption has triggered political row

A suspect arrested

The Haryana police said they had arrested a man on charges of murdering Narwal.

The police said that two men were apprehended from Delhi late Sunday and brought to Rohtak for questioning. After a few hours of grilling, one of the two, identified as Sachin, a resident of Haryanas Bahadurgarh, was placed under arrest.

According to India Today, Narwals cell phone was also found in Sachins possession during his arrest.

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As per the report, Sachin allegedly claimed Narwal has extorted lakhs from him and was demanding more money. He also accused her of blackmailing, due to which he got frustrated and killed her at her residence.

Sachin also reportedly confessed to stuff Narwals body in the suitcase and leave it at the bus stand.

Family demands justice

While the autopsy report is awaited, Narwals body has been kept at the mortuary after the family refused to collect it.

One accused has been arrested, and today we will cremate her (Himani Narwal). A lot of rumours are being spread in the media We will get justice We want the death penalty for the accused, her brother Jatin told ANI.

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Her mother, Savita Rani, said she was with her daughter until noon on February 27 before leaving for Delhi, where she lives with Jatin. The two were in contact till February 28 evening.

She also previously alleged that the murder could be an insiders job, since several Congress leaders were jealous of her swift rise.

It could be anyone in the party who was jealous about her rise, or it could be anyone else, Rani had said.

Talking to media persons outside the PGIMS mortuary, Rani alleged that some leaders in Congress envied her political rise in a short span. An enmity was building up because of her political growth. My daughter was very close to the Hooda family, she said. My elder son (Kuldeep) was killed in 2011 but we did not get justice in that case too, she added.

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Political row

Haryana Minister and BJP leader Anil Vij, according to The Indian Express, said that the allegations levelled by Narwals mother are serious" and that to move ahead, push others behind this is Congress old culture.

He told reporters in Ambala that police are conducting a thorough probe into the murder case.

Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, speaking about the allegations, said, A culprit is a culprit, whether he is in the party or anyone else. The culprit should be identified and punished as per law. The Congress party stands with Himanis family in this hour of grief.

Further slamming the BJP government, he said that increasing crime in Haryana is a matter of serious concern, adding, Recently, a BSP leader was murdered in Naraingarh, the hometown of the chief minister. Last year, the INLD state chief was killed in Bahadurgarh and a JJP leader was murdered in Hansi. Earlier, more than six MLAs in the state received extortion threats.

Rohtak Congress MLA B B Batra has demanded a high-level investigation and said, She was a Congress worker. This brutal murder should be investigated by a special investigation team (SIT). It is unfortunate that such a gruesome act was committed on Himani.

With inputs from agencies
Elon Musk was appointed as a special government employee (SGE) to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), a role that typically limits service to 130 days in a 365-day period. Despite this restriction, White House officials now indicate no clear end date to Musks tenure. His time in office has been marked by mass layoffs, aggressive cost-cutting measures and internal White House tensions read more

Elon Musk shows off his t-shirt reading "Tech Support" while speaking at the first cabinet meeting hosted by US President Donald Trump, at the White House in Washington, DC, US, February 26, 2025. File Image/Reuters

Elon Musks tenure as a special government employee in the Trump administration has been nothing short of controversial.

Tasked with leading the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), the tech billionaire has undertaken sweeping reforms, including drastic budget cuts and mass layoffs.

However, speculation has been mounting over whether Musk will step down after reaching the 130-day work limit imposed on special government employees  or if the White House intends to keep him indefinitely.

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White House dismisses concerns

The special government employee designation, created by Congress in 1962, allows individuals to work in the executive branch for a maximum of 130 days within a 365-day period.

Typically, SGEs serve as consultants or advisory board members, and their status allows them to bypass certain financial disclosure requirements that full-time federal employees must meet.

Despite this established rule, the Trump White House has made it clear that Musks tenure will not necessarily be limited to 130 days. No one here at the White House is tired of winning. The president has tasked Elon Musk with eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in the federal government, a mission that will continue until completed, deputy press secretary Harrison Fields told Politico.

Asked directly whether the administration was working on a way to extend Musks role beyond the 130-day limit, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt deflected: So, today is February 25th, so I think weve been here about 35 days, roughly, so ask me in another 100 days.

Musks unconventional approach

Musks approach to government restructuring has reportedly ruffled feathers within the administration. His abrupt decision-making, often without prior consultation with senior White House staff, has led to tensions.

One example was to list their top five accomplishments or risk being fired  a directive issued without informing key White House aides beforehand.

While some within the administration are eager to see Musks departure, others acknowledge that his influence is unlikely to wane. A political adviser close to Trump told Politico, There are likely people who are counting the days until 130 days are up and will push against keeping him around, but I just think thats a losing battle. He is here to stay.

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Among those reportedly uneasy with Musks continued presence are chief of staff Susie Wiles, deputy chief of staff James Blair, and White House Presidential Personnel Office director Sergio Gor.

However, Leavitt dismissed reports of internal dissatisfaction as 100 percent fake news.

Will Musks role face legal challenges?

One of the major legal questions surrounding Musks extended White House role is whether he is exceeding the boundaries of what an SGE should do. Previous SGEs have included Huma Abedin during the Obama administration and Scott Atlas during Trumps first term.

Columbia Law School professor Richard Briffault told Politico, The concept of a special government employee is an expert consultant that comes in to give advice, but it sounds like what he is doing is far more than advice. If hes saying to people, Send me your five bullet points or youre fired, that strikes me as going beyond giving advice.

Musks SGE status exempts him from some of the financial disclosure requirements that apply to full-time government employees. This has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, particularly given Musks business ties with Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and other ventures.

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While Musk has undergone ethics training and is required to file a confidential financial disclosure report, his critics argue that his continued private-sector leadership presents a conflict of interest.

There is also uncertainty over whether the administration will attempt to work around the 130-day cap. A 2024 legal advisory from the US Office of Government Ethics suggests that an SGE may continue past the limit in unforeseen circumstances if the employees role is deemed unique and unlikely to occur again.

However, enforcement of this rule remains unclear, particularly after Trump recently removed the head of the Office of Government Ethics.

Whats next for Musk in the White House?

With Musks 130-day mark potentially falling around May 20, questions remain about whether he will continue in his role at Doge beyond that date.

US Vice President JD Vance, addressing concerns about Musks government involvement at the Munich Security Conference, joked, And trust me, I say this with all humour: If American democracy can survive 10 years of Greta Thunbergs scolding, you guys can survive a few months of Elon Musk.

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Ultimately, Musks future in the White House depends on Trumps decision. As the Trump himself put it, Elon cant do and wont do anything without our approval. And well give him the approval, where appropriate; where not appropriate, we wont.

Also Watch:

With inputs from agencies
Elon Musk has supported a call for the US to withdraw from the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) and the United Nations (UN). This has sparked fear that the Trump administration, who has been putting America First, would abandon Europe and its other allies. However, such a move will also spell trouble for Washington in global politics read more

Will he? Amid strained ties, there are growing murmurs that President Donald Trump should pull out of Nato and the United Nations. Reuters

Is the US opting out of Nato? Thats the question everyone is asking after First Buddy Elon Musk shared his support for the same on his social media platform, X, on Saturday (March 1).

Notably, Musk isnt alone in his support for Americas exit from the military alliance. Several Republican lawmakers have questioned Washingtons membership in Nato, with some even calling for an immediate pullout from the alliance.

These comments have been amplified over the weekend after US President Donald Trump got involved in a heated exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday (February 28).

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But can the US president actually quit Nato? And what would it mean for the US and the world if Trump heeded Elon Musks advice?

What did Musk, Republicans say about US exit from Nato and UN?

As the world watched perhaps this decades biggest diplomatic disaster  T rump berating Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy  unfolding on live television, Elon Musk, the head of Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) took to X to endorse a suggestion by user @GuntherEagleman, who wrote: Its time to leave Nato and the United Nations (UN).

Responding to @GuntherEaglemans post, Musk wrote, I agree. However, he did not elaborate on the specifics of why he wants the US to pull out of Nato and the UN.

Elon Musk, the head of the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has publicly supported the idea that the United States should pull out from both the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato) and the United Nations (UN). File image/Reuters

Other Republicans have also voiced this sentiment. Utah Senator Mike Lee, who has criticised Nato for quite some time, has said that the alliance is a great deal for Europe but a raw deal for America.

Get us out of NATO, Lee wrote on X.

Time to leave NATO



Lets go!



Who else is with President Trump on this! https://t.co/tLkpWWaU5q  Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) February 16, 2025

He had also introduced legislation last month alongside other lawmakers to pull out of the UN, decrying it as a platform for tyrants and a venue to attack America and her allies.

Thomas Massie, the US representative from Kentucky, also called for America to quit the alliance, writing, Nato is a Cold War relic that needs to be relegated to a talking kiosk at the Smithsonian.

What has been Trumps stance on Nato?

Interestingly, US President Donald Trump has also been critical of the military alliance. When he ran for president the first time around, he frequently called the alliance obsolete and in August 2019, he even said, I dont give a s**t about Nato, according to his former National Security Advisor John Bolton.

The Politico citing a senior EU official reported that Trump privately warned that America would not come to the European Unions aid if it was attacked militarily.

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You need to understand that if Europe is under attack we will never come to help you and to support you, Trump told European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in 2020, according to French European Commissioner Thierry Breton, who was also present at a meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

By the way, Nato is dead, and we will leave, we will quit Nato, Trump also said, according to Breton.

In his second tenure too, Trump has been critical of Nato. Just days after his inauguration, Trump said the US was protecting members of the alliance, but they were not protecting us. He also pushed for Nato members to spend five per cent of their GDP on defence, a level far above the current two per cent goal and a level that no member state, including the US, currently satisfies.

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He also complained that the US contributes too much to its budget while EU members spend too little on defence. According to data, the US contributes about one-sixth of Natos annual budget. Washington financed 15.8 per cent of the military alliances yearly expenditure of around $3.5 billion. Its the joint largest share, alongside Germanys, according to a Nato breakdown for 2024.

But can Trump withdraw from Nato and UN?

However, even as Republicans, Musk and Trump show scepticism towards Nato, the US exit from this group is easier said than done. Experts note that a withdrawal would trigger a legal headache for the US president.

How would this happen?

In 2023, Senators Tim Kaine and Marco Rubio authored legislation requiring that any presidential decision to exit Nato must have either two-thirds Senate approval or be authorised through an act of Congress. Lawmakers passed the measure as part of the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, which President Joe Biden signed into law.

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Karen Sokol, a legislative attorney for the Congressional Research Service, noted that this law prohibits unilateral presidential withdrawal from a treaty.

US President Donald Trump has said that he would absolutely consider withdrawing the United States from Nato if member nations do not meet their financial obligations. File image/AFP

However, other experts differ, saying that the law isnt airtight and that the US president could bypass it. Scott Anderson, a Brookings Institution scholar and senior editor of Lawfare, said, This is not open and shut, this is about Congress telling you you cant do this, and if you ignore Congress, youre going to have to fight us in the courts over it.

What is more worrying, however, is that even if Trump couldnt leave Nato, he could undermine it or as Kathleen J McInnis, a senior fellow in the International Security Program, noted in Lawfare that Trump could  quiet quit Nato.

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In the case of the UN, the UN Charter is a binding treaty, which contains no provision for voluntary withdrawal. Thus, according to the 1969 Vienna Convention, it would not be technically permissible unless there had already been a material breach of the treaty by another party.

History shows that Indonesia was the only country to withdraw from the UN from 1965-66 to protest against Malaysia being elected to the Security Council. However, they just showed back up in 1966 and no action was required to reinstate them.

What would be the repercussions if US left Nato and UN?

Catastrophic That would be the implication if Trump did go ahead and pull out of these two forums.

If the US did go ahead and pull out of Nato, it would spell trouble for not only Europe but also for Washington itself.

James Goldgeier, an international-relations professor at American University and the author of several books on Nato, told The Atlantic that the result would be chaotic. Its not like you can say, Okay, now we have another plan for how to deal with this,  he said. There is no alternative leadership available, no alternative source of command-and-control systems, no alternative space weapons, and not even an alternative supply of ammunition. Europe would immediately be exposed to a possible Russian attack for which it is not prepared, and for which it would not be prepared for many years.

Moreover, defence supplies would dry up for Ukraine. The prospect of America leaving Nato would force many European countries to keep their military resources at home. This would lead to the Ukrainians running out of ammunition quite quickly.

But Trumps potential move could also reverberate outside of Europe and hurt Washington itself. If the US left Nato, then it wouldnt allow the superpower to maintain a presence in Europe, Africa or West Asia. As National Interest noted that many countries would move closer to Russia or China. If our allies and partners cant count on us to be there, we will lose access to many military bases around the globe.

Trumps potential pull out of the UN would be unprecedented. It would also affect the world bodys funding as US is the biggest contributor. File image/AFP

Trumps withdrawal from the UN would also be problematic. First and foremost, it would withdraw the US from the global stage  the US veto would be revoked and its seat as one of five permanent members of the UN Security Council would go. The US would be effectively surrendering its right to participate in negotiations.

It would also undermine the authority of the UN on a global stage. As the Borgen Project wrote, If its initial champion, the nation that has hosted the institutions headquarters from its beginning, was to withdraw, it would create a precedent that erodes the principles on which the UN was founded.

Funding for the UN would also decrease significantly. In the year 2023, the US contributed almost $13 billion to the United Nations, with the World Food Programme receiving the biggest chunk of the donated proceeds. The Trump administration has already withdrawn from the World Health Organization (WHO), which has affected global health.

Experts also note that by withdrawing from the UN, the US would be losing its hold over global affairs and empowering China. The Foreign Affairs wrote in one report that US retrenchment empowers only China. It noted that the US withdrawal will push UN agencies into Chinas orbit, ultimately making the world less hospitable to US interests.

With inputs from agencies
At the pivotal London Summit on the Ukraine war, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a peace plan for the war-torn country, which includes a one-month truce. The meeting of 18 European allies saw leaders promise more military aid to Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, with a breakdown of ties between the US and Ukraine, will this strategy succeed? read more

After the disastrous Oval Office spat, European and Nato leaders stood shoulder to shoulder with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the London Summit on Sunday (March 2). The talks, which brought together 18 allies, came just two days after US President Donald Trump and his Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy in front of reporters at the White House.

There were a lot of hugs exchanged at the summit, but it didnt stop there. There was also real substance as European and Nato allies committed to spending more on defence and stepping up to defend their borders against Russian aggression, with an eye on a US partner that Europeans are not sure they can now rely on.

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France and UK also announced a one-month truce in Ukraine in the air, at sea. Speaking to a French newspaper on his return after the summit, Emmanuel Macron said, We want peace, but not at any price, without guarantees.

But what did we learn from the London summit? Was it only symbolism or was there real substance?

Zelenskyy receives a warm welcome

The Ukrainian president was warmly embraced by many world leaders at the summit  there was a hug with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and another with French President Emmanuel Macron.

There were also thousands of demonstrators who showed up at UKs Downing Street to extend support for Kyiv, some even dressed in the countrys blue and yellow national colours.

Many observers noted that the welcome in London was in stark contrast to the reception Zelenskyy received at the White House just two days ago. There, Trump accused Zelenskyy of not being grateful enough for US aid and not being ready for peace with Russia. Their argument, playing out on live television, raised fears that Trump wanted to force Kyiv into a peace deal that would give Russian President Vladimir Putin what he wants.

People wait outside Lancaster House for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to leave the European leaders summit hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss European security and Ukraine, in London, Britain. Reuters

A coalition of the willing

Following the London Summit, as it has been dubbed, British PM Keir Starmer announced the decision to develop a coalition of the willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee peace.

(European allies) will go forth to develop a coalition of the willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace, Starmer said during a press conference following a European leaders summit in London. Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that cant mean we sit back. Instead those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency.

The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air. Together with others, Europe must do the heavy lifting, Starmer said. This is not a moment for more talk If you want to preserve the peace, you have to defend the peace.

The UK and France have spearheaded this idea. However, it remains unclear who or what will be involved in this.

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Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer attends a press conference as he hosts European leaders summit at Lancaster House in central London, Britain. Reuters

Starmer in his remarks said that he spoke to Donald Trump on March 1 to deliver plans for the proposed coalition, and added that the proposed coalition will succeed on the basis that Europe works with the US and that it will have US backing.

While Starmer did not specify which other countries would participate in the coalition, he did add that a number of countries have indicated they want to be part of the plan were developing.

The purpose of todays meeting was to unite our partners around this effort. To strengthen Ukraine, and ensure a just and enduring peace for the good of all of us, Starmer added. We have to learn from the mistakes of the past. We cannot accept a deal like Minsk which Russia can break with ease.

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New military aid for Ukraine

British PM Keir Starmer in his remarks at the London summit also announced an additional 1.6 billion ($2bn) of UK export finance to buy more than 5,000 air defence missiles. This comes on top of a 2.2 billion loan to provide more military aid to Ukraine backed by profits from frozen Russian assets.

These missiles will be manufactured in Belfast at a factory operated by Thales, a French arms manufacturer. The lightweight multirole missiles (LMMs) are intended to protect against Russian drone and missile attacks.

Moreover, Starmer added that military aid will keep flowing into Ukraine and economic pressure will continue on Russia.

Frances President Emmanuel Macron, Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky prepare to hold a plenary meeting at a summit held at Lancaster House in central London. Reuters

Europes defence spending to see a surge

While it is unsure if other European countries will follow the UKs example of increasing defence spending, Nato chief Mark Rutte said that more European countries will ramp up defence spending.

He described the increased defence spending as very good news and reiterated the need for more of a fair balance with the US. He also told reporters that the first step was to make sure there is a peace deal before there are discussions about how to guarantee it.

This comes after the UK announced that it would increase defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP by 2027, from the current 2.3 per cent.

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Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Frances President Emmanuel Macron, Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Germanys Chancellor Olaf Scholz, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, Denmarks Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Swedens Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Norways Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, Finlands President Alexander Stubb and other officials attend the European leaders summit to discuss European security and Ukraine, at Lancaster House in London. Reuters

Later, French President Emmanuel Macron told Le Figaro newspaper that European countries should boost their defence spending to between three and 3.5 per cent of GDP  a much higher target than Natos two per cent. For three years, the Russians have spent 10 per cent of their GDP on defencce, said the French president. So we have to prepare for whats next.

It is left to be seen if Europe can stand up for Ukraine in this long winding war. Moreover, will Europe be able to repair the US-Ukraine ties? Will Starmer and Macron be able to sway Trump back to their side? It is unknown for now  but there are signs that it will happen as Zelenskyy said he is ready to sign the minerals deal with the US.

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With inputs from agencies
Thomas Gabriel Pereira, a native of Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala, was shot dead while attempting to enter Israel illegally from Jordan. He had travelled to Jordan on a tourist visa. His 43-year-old brother-in-law, Edison Charles, who accompanied him, suffered a bullet wound in the leg during the incident read more

Thomas, a resident of Thumba in Kerala, had travelled to Jordan on a visitor visa. News18

An Indian man was shot dead while attempting to enter Israel illegally from Jordan.

The man has been identified as Thomas Gabriel Pereira.

The incident took place on February 10.

ALSO READ | Who was Binil TB, Kerala man who died fighting in Russia-Ukraine war?

Thomas, a resident of Thumba in Kerala, had travelled to Jordan on a visitor visa.

On Sunday, the Indian Embassy in Jordan confirmed that it had been informed about the sad demise of an Indian national in unfortunate circumstances.

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Who was Thomas Gabriel? How did his family in India respond to the news?

We will answer these questions:

Who was Thomas Gabriel Pereira: Explained in 10 points

1. Thomas, 47, hailed from Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala and had travelled to Jordan on a tourist visa.

2. He was reportedly shot dead by Jordanian security forces while attempting to enter Israel illegally.

VIDEO | A man from Kerala was reportedly shot dead at the Jordan-Israel border, according to his relatives in Thiruvananthapuram. The deceased has been identified as Ani Thomas Gabriel, 47, a native of Thumba.



"He called me when he reached Jordan to tell me that he reached pic.twitter.com/uSsvWJESDh  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

3. He was accompanied by his 43-year-old brother-in-law, Edison Charles, who sustained a bullet wound in the leg during the incident.

4. As per the Malayalam daily Mathrubhumi, the duo was confronted by Jordanian soldiers at the border. When they tried to take cover behind rocks, Gabriel was shot in the head and died instantly. His family was informed of his death via an email from the Indian Embassy.

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5. A local panchayat representative told News18 that Gabriel was previously an autorickshaw driver before moving to Jordan.

ALSO READ | Who was Shahzadi Khan, the UP woman executed in UAE?

6. Pereira and Edison were allegedly promised jobs in Israel with a monthly salary of Rs 350,000 by an Indian contact in Jordan. Edison told The Independent that they had paid Rs 210,000 in advance and were expected to pay Rs 50,000 per month after securing employment.

7. A relative told ANI that Pereira had previously worked in Kuwait for five years. He left for Jordan without informing his wife or family, only revealing his location after reaching there.

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8. Edison, who was shot in the leg, lost consciousness and was taken into custody in Israel. He was hospitalised before being deported to India a week later. He arrived in Kochi and later reached Thiruvananthapuram.

9. Thomas, also known as Ani, had left for Israel on February 5 with his relative Edison. His last call to his wife, Christina, was on February 9, assuring her of their safety.

10. The Indian Embassy, in an email to his family, stated that Gabriel and Edison had attempted to cross the Jordan-Israel border illegally in the Karak district.

Jordanian soldiers stand guard in an area on the Jordanian side of the border with Israel. Reuters/File Photo

He asked me to pray for him

Speaking to ANI, Thomas wife recalled their last conversation, saying he spoke to her for only two minutes.

He just asked me to pray for him, she said.

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An email from the Indian Embassy in Jordan to his family detailed the incident: The security forces tried to stop them, but they did not listen to the warning. The guards opened fire on them. One bullet hit Thomas in his head, and he passed away on the spot. Later, his body was sent to the local hospital

Beena, a relative of Pereira, told India Today that he last contacted his wife on February 9, assuring her that they were safe in their room.

We have no idea why he went there. He took his bag, and only when he was leaving, he said he was going to Jordan. He arranged the money himself, and he knew if he told his wife, she wouldnt agree. She is alone here. They dont have kids, she said.

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With inputs from agencies
Israel has stopped the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza. Aid agencies and human rights groups say this move could worsen the already deteriorated health situation in the region, and termed it as unacceptable read more

Trucks line up at the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip after Israel blocked the entry of aid trucks into Gaza. AP

Israel has stopped the entry of all goods and supplies to the Gaza Strip and warned of additional consequences if Hamas doesnt accept a new proposal to extend a fragile ceasefire. This is an echo of the siege it imposed in the earliest days of its war with Hamas.

A tool of extortion, said Saudi Arabias foreign ministry. A reckless act of collective punishment, Oxfam said. Key mediator Egypt accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon.

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The action has been met with sharp criticism from both the United Nations and other humanitarian aid providers calling the decision a violation of international law. Hunger is one of the pressing issues that Gazas two million population faces with aid experts warning of a possible famine. With this move, some experts are concerned about losing the progress that was reported under the past six weeks of a ceasefire.

The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, is exerting pressure on Hamas to accept a US-brokered proposal aimed at extending the first phase of the ceasefire. This move is designed to postpone negotiations on the significantly more challenging second phase, which would require Hamas to release all remaining living hostages in exchange for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire agreement.

Heres a look at what Israels decision means and the reactions

No word from US

Minutes after the first ceasefire phase ended early Sunday, Israel voiced its support for a US proposal, originating from West Asia envoy Steve Witkoff, to extend the ceasefire through Passover. Israel also made it clear that war could resume if negotiations dont progress.

Negotiations on the second phase were meant to start a month ago, increasing the uncertainty around the fragile truce. Hamas has insisted that those talks begin. Later Sunday, Israel announced the immediate cutoff of aid to Gaza.

The Trump administration has not issued a statement about Israels announcement or its decision to cut off aid. Its also not clear when Witkoff will visit the West Asia again. He had been expected to visit last week.

Palestinians sit at a large table surrounded by the rubble of destroyed homes and buildings as they gather for iftar, the fast-breaking meal, on the first day of Ramadan in Rafah, southern Gaza Strip. AP

The US under the Biden administration pressed Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, threatening to limit weapons support. Aid organizations repeatedly criticized Israeli restrictions on items entering the small coastal territory, while hundreds of trucks with aid at times waited to enter.

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Israel says it has allowed in enough aid. It has blamed shortages on what it called the UNs inability to distribute it and accused Hamas militants of siphoning off aid.

For months before the ceasefire, some Palestinians reported limiting meals, searching through garbage and foraging for edible weeds as food supplies ran low.

Aid trucks entering Gaza

Commencing on January 19, the ceasefires initial phase enabled a significant influx of aid into Gaza, averaging 600 truckloads per day. This daily aid delivery was designed to be sustained across all three phases of the ceasefire.

However, Hamas says less than 50 per cent of the agreed-upon number of trucks carrying fuel, for generators and other uses, were allowed in. Hamas also says the entry of live animals and animal feed, key for food security, were denied entry.

Still, Palestinians in Gaza were able to stock up on some supplies. The ceasefire brought some much-needed relief to Gaza, but it was far from enough to cover the immense needs, the Norwegian Refugee Council said Sunday.

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Israels announcement came hours after Muslims in Gaza marked the first breaking of the fast during the holy month of Ramadan, with long tables set for collective meals snaking through the rubble of war-destroyed buildings.

The sudden aid cutoff sent Palestinians hurrying to markets. Prices in Gaza tripled immediately, Mahmoud Shalabi, the Medical Aid for Palestinians deputy director of programs in northern Gaza, told The Associated Press.

Legal implications of the cutoffs

Critics have called the cutoffs a violation of humanitarian law. International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid, said the UN humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher.

Hours after Israels announcement, five non-governmental groups asked Israels Supreme Court for an interim order barring the state from preventing aid from entering Gaza, claiming the move violates Israels obligations under international law and amounts to a war crime: These obligations cannot be conditioned on political considerations.

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Last year, the International Criminal Court said there was reason to believe Israel had used starvation as a method of warfare when it issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The allegation is also central to South Africas case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.

On Sunday, Kenneth Roth, former head of Human Rights Watch, said Israel as an occupying power has an absolute duty to facilitate humanitarian aid under the Geneva Conventions and called Israels decision a resumption of the war-crime starvation strategy that led to the ICC warrant.

With inputs from AP
On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the ambitious Rs 2,927-crore Project Lion, a large-scale initiative designed to protect and expand the Asiatic lion population. PM Modi embarked on a safari at Gujarats Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, the only abode for Asiatic lions read more

On March 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi who toured Gir Wildlife Sanctuary on World Wildlife Day is set to unveil the ambitious Rs 2,927 crore Project Lion, a large-scale initiative designed to protect and expand the Asiatic lion population. Image courtesy: X/@NarendraModi

On World Wildlife Day, Indias Gir forest has 674 reasons to roar with prideone for each of its Asiatic lions, the last of their kind in the wild.

On March 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the ambitious Rs 2,927 crore Project Lion, a large-scale initiative designed to protect and expand the Asiatic lion population.

To mark the occasion, PM Modi embarked on an adventure safari through Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Junagadh, Gujarathis home state. He was accompanied by state ministers and senior forest officials, taking in the sights of the vast deciduous forest.

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Today, on #WorldWildlifeDay, lets reiterate our commitment to protect and preserve the incredible biodiversity of our planet. Every species plays a vital rolelets safeguard their future for generations to come!



We also take pride in Indias contributions towards preserving pic.twitter.com/qtZdJlXskA  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

But what exactly is Project Lion, and how will it help conserve the big cats in their last abode? Heres a closer look.

High-tech hospital, drones & more

A key part of Project Lion is the establishment of a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital in Sasan, Gir, which will function as the National Wildlife Disease Diagnostic Centre, reports The Hindustan Times.

This facility will play a key role in monitoring and preventing diseases like Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) and Babesia, which have threatened lions in 2018 and 2020. With advanced medical infrastructure, it will ensure timely diagnosis and treatment, strengthening conservation efforts.

Beyond healthcare, the project will also boost lion protection and surveillance in the jungle. Sources involved in its development, revealed to The Times of India, plans for drone monitoring, CCTV surveillance at forest entrances and exits. They will also have 33 rapid response units, and 100 new tracker positions for lion rescue.

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A key part of Project Lion is the establishment of a high-tech veterinary hospital in Sasan, Gir, which will function as the National Wildlife Disease Diagnostic Centre. Image courtesy: X/@NarendraModi

The seeds of Project Lion were first sown by PM Modi during his Independence Day speech on August 15, 2020, when he spoke about the need to protect and expand Indias Asiatic lion population for whom Gujarat is the only abode.

Carrying that vision forward, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, in a letter dated November 2, 2022, approved a 10-year conservation plan with a budget of Rs 2,927.71 crore.

Also read: On World Wildlife Day, PM Modi undertakes Safari tour of Gir forest | See pics

A second home for the big cats

With the Asiatic lion population growing in Gir , Project Lion aims to develop Barda Dungar Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 100 km west of Gir, as a second home for the species.

For years, the Gujarat Forest Department has been working to establish new habitats for Asiatic lions, whose numbers remain heavily concentrated in and around Gir.

As per the 2020 census, the state is home to 674 lions, marking a 29 per cent increase from the 2015 count. Among them, there are 206 males, 309 females, and 130 cubs, with Gir alone housing nearly 400 lions, according to The Guardian.

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Gujarat Forest Department has been working to establish new habitats for Asiatic lions, whose numbers remain heavily concentrated in and around Gir. Project Lion aims to develop Barda Dungar Wildlife Sanctuary, located about 100 km west of Gir, as a second home for the species. Image courtesy: Asiatic Lion Lodge

Conservationists have long pushed for the expansion of lion habitats beyond Gir, warning that keeping them in close proximity makes them more vulnerable to disease outbreaks and resource competition.

In January 2023, the efforts to establish new habitats got a significant boost when a lion was spotted in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary the first such sighting since Indias Independence. This reinforced the belief that Barda could sustain a thriving lion population.

According to the Wildlife Institute of India, the Barda-Alech hills and coastal forests have the potential to support around 40 adult and sub-adult lions. Project Lion will prioritise improving the habitat in this area to make it more suitable for the big cats. So far, the area inhabits 17 lions, including six adults and 11 cubs.

Lions and lionesses in Gir! Tried my hand at some photography this morning. pic.twitter.com/TKBMKCGA7m  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

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A major portion of the budget for Project Lion will be towards habitat management, an official aware of the matter told The Hindustan Times. This includes increasing the prey base and encouraging the voluntary resettlement of human settlements within protected areas to reduce human-wildlife conflict.

To support coexistence, the government has provided 11,000 machans (raised platforms) for farmers so they can protect their crops without direct confrontation with lions. Additionally, the project aims to restore around 1,000 square kilometres of exclusive lion habitat by relocating Maldhari settlements outside Girs Protected Areas, with financial incentives and assistance from the state government.

More lion homes in India?

Project Lion doesnt stop at Gir and Bardait also includes plans to identify additional sites both within Gujarat and beyond to enhance genetic diversity and ensure the long-term survival of Asiatic lions.

According to an official cited by the Times of India, the project proposes the creation of eight new satellite habitats in Saurashtra, including Umath Virdi in Bhavnagar, Gir, Girnar, Mitiyala, Jesor-Hipawadi, Babra Virdi, Hingolgadh, and the coastal stretch from Rajula to Jafrabad up to Mahuva. These areas have been identified as frequent lion locations and will be further developed as potential habitats.

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To support this, Project Lion includes efforts to enhance protected areas by planting fruit-bearing trees to attract prey species like nilgai.

As part of the initiative, PM Modi also chaired a meeting with the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) at Gir to discuss Project Lion. He will also discuss other major conservation efforts, including Project Tiger, Project Cheetah, Project Elephant, and Project Dolphin.

A senior government official told the Hindustan Times that all 47 members of the NBWL will participate in the meeting.

The NBWL is Indias apex body for wildlife conservation and policymaking under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. It is responsible for guiding wildlife protection policies, approving projects affecting ecological areas, and evaluating environmental clearances. The board consists of 47 members, including the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (Vice-Chairperson), 19 ex-officio members, and 27 nominated experts in wildlife conservation, ecology, and environmental sciences.

With input from agencies
James Harrison, known in Australia as the man with the golden arm, died at 88. His blood contained a rare antibody, Anti-D, which was used to develop a treatment for pregnant women whose blood could harm their unborn children. Over his lifetime, he made 1,173 plasma donations, helping save more than 2.4 million Australian babies read more

He began donating plasma at 18 and continued every two weeks until he was 81. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood

He was known in Australia as the man with a golden arm.

As per the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, he helped in saving the lives of over 2.4 million Australian babies.

James Harrison passed away in his sleep at a nursing home in New South Wales, Australia, on February 17, at the age of 88.

ALSO READ | Who is Indias most generous man and how much did he donate?

Over six decades, he donated plasma more than 1100 times and gained international recognition for his life-saving contributions.

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Who was he? How did his plasma donations help millions of babies?

We will answer these questions.

Who was James Harrison?

Harrison was among the worlds most dedicated blood donors, with his plasma helping save over 2 million newborns.

Known in Australia as the man with the golden arm, his blood contained a rare antibody, Anti-D, which was used to create a treatment for pregnant women whose blood could potentially harm their unborn children.

Harrison passed away in his sleep at a nursing home in New South Wales. X/@goodnewsdog

He began donating plasma at 18 and continued every two weeks until he was 81.

In 2005, he held the world record for the most blood plasma donations, a title he retained until 2022 when a donor from the US surpassed him, according to BBC.

His journey as a donor started at 14 when he underwent major lung surgery. He required intensive care and multiple blood transfusions, which left him determined to give back.

Despite his fear of needles, he kept his promise to donate as soon as he was eligible at 18. He was inspired by his father, who was a regular blood donor.

In 1954, he made his first donation and continued visiting the Red Cross every fortnight for over 60 years, providing life-saving plasma until his retirement in 2018 at the age of 81. Notably, he never missed a single appointment, news.com.au reported.

In recognition of his dedication, Harrison was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in 1999, one of the nations highest honours, for his service to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood and the Anti-D programme.

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His generosity leaves behind a remarkable legacy, and he has put the challenge out to the Australian community to beat it, Lifeblood said in a statement.

What is Anti-D?

Harrisons plasma contained the rare and vital anti-D antibody.

This antibody is used to produce medication that prevents haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn (HDFN), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition where a pregnant womans immune system attacks her babys red blood cells.

HDFN occurs when the mothers blood type is incompatible with that of her unborn child. The mothers immune system perceives the babys red blood cells as a threat and generates antibodies to destroy them. This can lead to severe anaemia, heart failure, or even death, according to BBC.

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Before the introduction of anti-D treatment in the mid-1960s, half of the babies diagnosed with HDFN did not survive.

Australia has fewer than 200 anti-D donors, yet their contributions support around 45,000 mothers and babies annually, according to Lifeblood.

Harrison expected nothing in return for his generosity and continued to donate even in his darkest days, including after losing his wife Barbara, who was also a regular donor, Lifeblood chief executive Stephen Cornelissen said in a statement.

James Harrison is a blood donor whose unusual plasma composition has been used to make a treatment for Rhesus disease.



He made 1173 donations throughout his lifetime, which are estimated to have saved over 2.5 million unborn babies from the condition. pic.twitter.com/GFdzAqyd5D  Massimo (@Rainmaker1973) January 12, 2025

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How did Harrisons blood become rich in anti-D?

The reason behind Harrisons unusually high levels of anti-D and its lasting potency remains uncertain.

However, it is likely linked to the extensive blood transfusion he underwent at the age of 14, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Harrison estimated that he required 13 units (7.4 litres) of blood to survive a complex operation that removed most of his left lung. But he was never certain, as he was simply grateful to have made it through.

A look at Harrisons legacy

Harrison made a total of 1,173 donations - 1,163 from his right arm and just 10 from his left. He never watched as the needle was inserted, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

Harrisons daughter, Tracey Mellowship, fondly recalled him as a kind-hearted man with a great sense of humour.

James was a humanitarian at heart, but also very funny, Mellowship was quoted as saying by The Independent.

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As an Anti-D recipient myself, he has left behind a family that may not have existed without his precious donations, she said.

Today, the number of Australian children who die from HDFN has dropped drastically, with the mortality rate falling over a hundred-fold to around 0.01 deaths per 1,000, which is roughly four babies per year.

Harrison made a total of 1,173 donations. Australian Red Cross Lifeblood

Every batch of Anti-D that has ever been made in Australia has come from James blood, Jemma Falkenmire of the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood told CNN in 2015.

Researchers at WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) in Melbourne, working alongside Lifeblood, have launched a project called James in a Jar to replicate the Anti-D antibody in a laboratory setting.

By using blood and immune cells from Harrison and other donors, the team has successfully produced and grown the antibody, according to Lifeblood.

This advancement could one day help prevent Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn, providing crucial treatment for pregnant women not just in Australia, but around the world, the statement added.
As measles cases surge in Texas and other states, US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr claims such outbreaks are routine. Public health experts warn that declining vaccination rates are fuelling larger and more frequent outbreaks, with the US witnessing its first measles-related death in a decade. Is this truly not unusual'? read more

Robert F Kennedy Jr speaks in the Oval Office of the White House next to US President Donald Trump and US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), on the day Kennedy is sworn in as secretary of Health and Human Service in Washington, DC, US, February 13, 2025. File Image/Reuters

The United States is facing a surge in measles cases, with an outbreak in West Texas leading to the countrys first measles-related death in a decade.

US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, in a recent meeting with President Donald Trump and his cabinet, described the situation as not unusual.

Kennedy asserted that measles outbreaks occur annually and pointed out that there had already been four outbreaks in the US this year, compared to 16 in 2024.

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However, public health experts caution that while cases do arise each year, the scale of the current outbreak is cause for concern.

How serious is the current Measles situation in the US?

The outbreak, which began in late January, has been particularly severe in Gaines County, Texas, where 80 cases have been reported.

The virus has also spread to eight other counties and into New Mexico, with additional cases recorded in Georgia, Alaska, New Jersey, and California.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that as of February 20, 2025, there were 93 measles cases across eight jurisdictions, with more recent Texas data placing the total at 124 cases.

Unlike typical small-scale outbreaks of previous years, this years outbreak has already resulted in one death, the first in the country since 2015.

Measles is a highly contagious virus, capable of lingering in the air and on surfaces for hours. Symptoms typically include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a distinctive rash.

In severe cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation, and, in rare instances, death. The CDC estimates that one to three out of every 1,000 infected children will die from the disease.

Before the first measles vaccine was licensed in 1963, the virus infected between three and four million people annually in the US, leading to nearly 50,000 hospitalisations and 400-500 deaths each year.

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So far in 2025, at least 18 people have been hospitalised due to the current outbreak. The majority of cases have occurred in younger individuals between the ages of five and 17 years old.

The deceased child, who was school-aged and unvaccinated, was hospitalised in Lubbock before succumbing to the disease. Kennedy initially stated that two people had died from the outbreak, but the Associated Press later confirmed that this was a misstatement and only one death had been reported.

Are measles outbreaks becoming more common?

Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000, thanks to widespread vaccination efforts. In the years that followed, cases were sporadic and often linked to individuals who had travelled abroad and brought the virus back. However, in recent years, declining vaccination rates have contributed to a rise in large outbreaks.

Comparative data suggests that the current outbreak is progressing at a faster rate than in previous years. For instance, the CDCs weekly case reports show that 92 measles cases had already been recorded in early 2025  more than double the number recorded in the same period in 2024.

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Only three cases were reported in the same time frame in 2023. While the outbreak has not yet reached the scale of the 2019 outbreak, which saw 1,274 confirmed cases across 31 states, the current outbreak has already resulted in one fatality, unlike the 2019 outbreak.

Past outbreaks, such as the Disneyland-linked surge in Southern California in 2014-15 and the New York outbreak in 2018-19, demonstrate how gaps in vaccination coverage allow measles to spread rapidly.

In the 2023-24 school year, 39 states reported measles vaccination rates below the 95 per cent threshold required for herd immunity, compared to 28 states in 2019-20.

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Public health officials stress that each outbreak signals a lapse in public health defences. Each outbreak signifies a lapse in our public health defences and poses serious risks, especially to children, The New York Times quoted Dr Jerome Adams, who served as US Surgeon General during the first Trump administration.

What is the role of vaccination in preventing measles?

The measles vaccine, administered as part of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) immunisation, remains highly effective in preventing infection. A single dose provides 93 per cent protection, while the recommended two-dose regimen is 97 per cent effective.

Despite this, the national MMR vaccination rate among kindergartners has declined from 95 per cent in 2019 to 92.7 per cent in 2025, with some states reporting rates as low as 79.6 per cent.

Texas, the epicentre of the current outbreak, has seen significant declines in vaccination rates. In Gaines County, where most of the cases have been reported, the vaccination rate among kindergarteners is 82 per cent, significantly below the herd immunity threshold.

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New Mexico, which has recorded nine cases of measles this year, has reported no direct links between its cases and the Texas outbreak, indicating that multiple transmission chains may be at play.

In other states, New Jersey health authorities recently reported two measles cases in Bergen County, linked to a child who had travelled abroad. Los Angeles County health officials also confirmed a measles case in an infant who was exposed while travelling through Los Angeles International Airport.

Georgia has reported three cases, all within an unvaccinated family in metro Atlanta, while Alaska confirmed one case in January in an unvaccinated adult who had travelled overseas.

Why is RFK Jr a dubious figure when it comes to vaccines?

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has long been a controversial figure in the vaccine debate. He has expressed scepticism regarding the safety of vaccines and has previously questioned immunisation efforts.

His past involvement in vaccine-related controversies includes a visit to Samoa in 2019, where he met with anti-vaccine activists shortly before a measles outbreak killed 83 people, reported Newsweek. Kennedy later wrote to the Samoan prime minister, questioning whether the outbreak was due to low vaccine coverage or a defective vaccine.

Now serving as the head of the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Kennedy has promised not to use his position to advance anti-vaccine rhetoric.

However, he has already signalled his intent to review the US childhood vaccine schedule, which protects against diseases like measles, polio, and whooping cough.

Public health officials worry that such efforts could undermine confidence in immunisation programmes at a time when vaccination rates are already declining.

While Kennedy is correct that measles cases occur in the US every year, public health experts state that the current outbreak stands out due to its size, spread, and the first measles-related death in a decade.

The decline in vaccination rates has made such outbreaks more frequent and severe. Health officials continue to urge residents, particularly those in affected areas, to check their vaccination records and get the MMR vaccine if they have not already done so.

Given the highly contagious nature of measles and its potential complications, maintaining high vaccination rates remains the most effective defence against future outbreaks.

With inputs from agencies
Trumps proposal to impose reciprocal tariffs from early April on trading partners including India is worrying Indian exporters in sectors ranging autos to agriculture, with Citi Research analysts estimating potential losses at about $7 billion a year read more

Indias trade minister Piyush Goyal started on a trip to the United States on Monday to pursue trade talks, two government officials said, with weeks to go for President Donald Trumps planned reciprocal tariffs.

Goyals visit was sudden, as he departed after cancelling previously scheduled meetings until March 8, the officials said. He is also the minister for industry.

Indias trade ministry did not immediately respond to an e-mailed request for comment.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to the U.S. last month, both nations agreed to work on the first segment of a trade deal by the fall of 2025, aiming for bilateral trade worth $500 billion by 2030.

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Trumps proposal to impose reciprocal tariffs from early April on trading partners including India is worrying Indian exporters in sectors ranging autos to agriculture, with Citi Research analysts estimating potential losses at about $7 billion a year.

During the visit, Goyal will seek clarity on US reciprocal tariffs to assess their impact on India, one of the government sources said, and may also discuss potential Indian concessions and a trade deal to reduce tariffs and boost bilateral trade.

India is open to discuss tariff cuts on industrial products, including automobiles and chemicals, but is resisting pressure to lower tariffs on agricultural products, arguing it would impact millions of poor farmers, sources said.

To ease trade tension, India has already cut tariffs on several items, for example to 30% on high-end motorcycles from 50% and 100% on bourbon whiskey from 150%, while promising to review other tariffs, stepping up energy imports and buying more defence equipment.

Indias merchandise trade with the United States, its largest trading partner, has increased by about 8% year-on-year to more than $106 billion in the ten months through January, with India maintaining a trade surplus.

Analysts say chemicals, metal products, and jewellery - followed by automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and food products - are the most vulnerable sectors to potential U.S. reciprocal tariffs.

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If the United States expands such reciprocal tariffs to a broader range of farm products, Indias agricultural and food exports, including shrimp and dairy - where tariff differentials reach nearly 40% - would be among the hardest hit, said a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), a Delhi-based think tank.
The Europeans might replace the lost support, but they are already supplying as much as they can, given the deteriorated state of their defence industrythe truth is the US has capabilities and scales that the Europeans lack read more

Ukraine today has been caught in the tectonic shift of US foreign policy under a new president and is paying the price for being a proxy. Image source: Reuters

Rarely in recent times, where systems, norms, and interests dominate, has the fate of a nation been so dependent on a single relationship. When Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy entered the Oval Office, he needed to repair a deep rift between him and American President Donald Trump, who in the previous week had called him a dictator. But Trump had softened his tone after recently meeting with the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the French President Emmanuel Macron, both of whom spoke about the need for an enduring peace agreement that would deter future Russian aggression. Hence, the meeting held the future of US support for Ukraines defence against Russia.

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But on February 28, the world witnessed something that normally takes place behind closed doors. It was a meeting in the Oval Office that was meant to ease tensions but instead descended into a televised shouting match. By the end, Ukraines ambassador to Washington, Oksana Markarova, was visibly disappointed.

The press conference was cancelled, and a deal giving the US access to Ukraines critical minerals was not signed. As Zelenskyy drove back to his plane for an early departure, Trump delivered a terse message on social media accusing Zelenskyy of being not ready for peace if America is involved.

The fact is that Trump and Zelenskyy have fundamentally different visions for how Russias war in Ukraine should end. The breakdown in relations between them has now brought many questions to the fore.

What are the implications of the US pulling the plug as far as assistance to Ukraine goes? Will this result in a wedge within NATO? And finally, can peace talks continue with Ukraine unwilling to enter into any talks? There are, of course, other options that are also being spoken about, the first being a regime change in Kyiv with the new leadership willing to enter into negotiations.

Implications of the US Pulling the Plug

Trump has engaged directly with Russian President Vladimir Putin while sidelining European allies while joining a handful of countries, which include Russia (of course), Iran, and North Korea, in voting against a UN resolution condemning Putins aggression. Yet despite this new geopolitical reality, and despite month after month of gruelling fighting that has Russian forces taking territory by the day, Ukrainians themselves remain deeply resistant to accepting an end to the war that would sacrifice their countrys territory and sovereignty.

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Currently, the war is stalemated, but Russia has the initiative. Ukraines defences on the eastern front are bending but not breaking, and it retains an enclave in Russias Kursk region.

The fact is that Ukraine needs a steady flow of weapons, munitions, and supplies to continue its resistance, and to quote President Zelenskyy, has a low chance to survive without the support of the United States. While fresh funding is unlikely to be announced by the US, the main question is whether Trump will allow American equipment to flow to Ukraine from previously announced commitments.

Military aid funds have been committed, but the equipment is in different stages along the delivery pipeline. While the Europeans have committed around $40 billion of military aid, that has not yet been delivered.

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Though discussion of military aid generally focuses on major weapons, the key is quantity, not particular systems. In addition to weapons, militaries in combat need ammunition of all sorts, from small arms to artillery to tanks and missiles, and supplies like vehicles, night vision devices, and spares. The key, therefore, is to maintain the flow for all weapon systems to ensure their serviceability.

Apart from this, there is other crucial supporttraining and intelligence data, for examplethat the US provides. This is critical in building Ukraines military capabilities. Training encompasses not just the operation of donated Western equipment but also for individuals and units. Intelligence information has enabled Ukraine to understand the strategic picture better, what Russia is doing and intends to do, and the tactical level, where to fire its long-range munitions. Elimination of these can affect Ukraines military effort. Finally, there is the much-touted communications provided by Elon Musks Star Link. What if this is denied?

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The Europeans might replace the lost support, but they are already supplying as much as they can, given the deteriorated state of their defence industry. But the truth is that the US has capabilities and scales that the Europeans lack. Hence, there is a sense of pessimism, which was clearly expressed by Vice President JD Vance when he stated that Russians have a massive numerical advantage in manpower and weapons in Ukraine, and that advantage will persist regardless of further Western aid packages.

It has therefore been assessed by some analysts that the effects of a US aid cutoff would definitely result in far greater loss of life and could easily result in Ukraine losing the war.

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President Zelenskyy may have bought time as far as signing a peace deal is concerned, but will this result in better terms of a negotiated settlement? That is a moot question. Further, will it be enough to hold ground as Russia continues pressing its offensive?

Views from Europe

President Trump, in his meeting with Prime Minister Starmer of the UK, was unequivocal about Americas future role in European affairs: Im not going to make security guarantees Were going to have Europe do that. President Trump is clearly willing to force Europes hand and treat US commitments as subject to conditions rather than one bound by principles.

But the reality is that President Trump is threatening to annex Greenland, impose tariffs on trade, and is now abandoning Ukraine.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola all told Zelenskyy in a joint post: Your dignity honours the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Be strong, be brave, be fearless. We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace.

The Blocs foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, meanwhile, said it was clear that the free world needs a new leader. This is easier said than done, as the US has been the strongest supporter of Europe during World War II and thereafter, starting with the Marshall Plan.

For the first time, European leaders are uncertain whether the US remains committed to NATO and to the American leadership role in it. Will they therefore be able to step up their support in a meaningful way by providing Ukraine with long-term security guarantees and potentially be ready to put boots on the ground to help secure a lasting peace? Or will differences of opinion and bureaucracy among member states destroy its ability to play the leadership role it should be playing?

For Russia, the spat was a diplomatic triumph, as it has driven a wedge between Ukraine and the US and is more advantageous for Moscow, as it has also driven a wedge within NATO. It brings the Kremlin closer to what it wants most of all: Russia and the US negotiating about Ukraine without the Ukrainians,a twenty-first-century version of the Yalta Agreement at the end of World War II. No wonder Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Head of the Russian Security Council, wrote on Telegram that Trump had given Ukraine a strong slap on the wrist.

The Views on President Zelenskyy

There are many views on President Zelenskyys meeting with Trump. Of course, there are those that see him as a president standing up for the sacrifices of his people and to ensure that his territorial integrity remains intact. Someone brave who has the courage to stand up to both President Putin and President Trump.

Then there are those who feel that he was compelled to say what he did by his European backers to prevent a settlement engineered by the US, which would have entailed handing over Ukraines rare minerals to them.

Yet there are those who feel that Zelenskyys survival in office is dependent on the continuation of war. He is unpopular, and a ceasefire without any gains for Ukraine would see him being replaced once elections are held after the war. He is therefore fighting for his survival rather than for the interests of his country.

All three have an element of truth, but it seems to be that Ukraine today has been caught in the tectonic shift of US foreign policy under a new president and is paying the price for being a proxy.

Conclusion

In the fallout with Zelenskyy and the end of US support for the war effort, the Trump administration has not only shaken Ukraine but has also called into question some of the bedrock assumptions that have formed the basis of the transatlantic relationship since World War II.

The bottom line is that Ukraine wants its territory back and wants to be part of NATO or be given security guarantees, but it does not have the money or weapons to stand on its own. Russia feels Ukraine is historically a part of imperialist Russia and sees a red line in it being part of NATO.

Europe, led by liberal democracies, kept harping on a sense of entitlement as far as its comforts and views are concerned but was not willing to spend on its security requirements. The US, on the other hand, feels it needs to recover its investments in Ukraine by controlling its minerals. And in its quest to make Make America Great Again, it is unwilling to keep footing the security bill of Ukraine. Apart from that, it also needs to focus on the threat from China and continue its backing of Israel.

Marco Rubio, once a strong supporter of Ukraine, wrote, Thank you @POTUS for standing up for America in a way that no President has ever had the courage to do before. The fact is that Trump is viewing all this from a financial perspective. No wonder he gave Ukrainian President Zelenskyy an ultimatum: You either make a deal, or we are out.

Europe does need the US to end the war in Ukraine permanently. But the US also needs Europe to successfully accomplish that task. Amidst all these differences of interests, the world wants peace. The fact is that many players are finding it difficult to deal with blunt realities.

The author is a retired Major General of the Indian Army. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
It took the Second World War to change the course of history. It took the fall of the USSR and demolition of the Berlin Wall to serve the next inflection point. The bar is considerably lower in the age of social media. Bickering heads of states in a live televised showdown, amplified on X, is the totem of our times, where the course of history may turn on empty grandstanding.

There was Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the Justin Trudeau of Ukraine in war fatigues at the Oval Office. He appeared more interested in playing to the gallery than signing a critical deal with the United States that may keep his country afloat. On the other side were the American president and the vice president, leading an America in retreat, eager to close the rare earths deal and push the deadly conflict towards an early denouement.

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All Zelenskyy needed to do was keep calm, sign the draft agreement for which painstaking negotiations have already been met, and avoid getting into a slanging match with Trump in full glare of American media. The day before Zelenskyy landed in Washington DC, Trumps treasury secretary Scott Bessent went on record that the Ukrainian presidents visit is mostly ceremonial and a deal is done for American businesses to take interest in Ukrainian energy and resource extraction.

So, what went wrong?

A lot, apparently. To begin, Trump and Zelenskyy were talking about two different deals.

The agreement on strategic minerals, rare earths, hydrocarbons and infrastructure assets, that involves creation of a jointly managed Reconstruction Investment Fund to which Ukraine is mandated to contribute half of the revenues of future monetization of state-owned natural resources, was way more than just a deal on paper.

While lithium deposits at the undeveloped site in central Ukraine may take at least till 2029 to reach production stage (Trumps term ends in 2028) according to the most optimistic estimates, the deals real value lay in its geopolitical and geoeconomic promise.

To Trump, the revenue that may be generated from the deal was a form of payback for the money that the US has already spent on Ukraine in the form of financial aid, military equipment and arsenal to help it tackle Russian aggression. He reckons that Zelenskyy has been taking the US for a merry ride, and any future payment by American taxpayers must be returned in some form.

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In Trumps mind, therefore, Ukraine has very little leverage over America even if it signs the deal. It is a transactional arrangement expected to generate revenues that could help America recover some of the dues. Full stop.

To Zelenskyy, the minerals deal was a compromise that he was willing to make but only in lieu of firm security guarantees from the US. Before heading to Washington, he made it clear that the proposed agreement was just a framework, and the draft must have a sentence on security guarantees for Ukraine, and its important that its there.

Those who have watched the full 49-minute press briefing at the Oval Office between Zelenskyy, Trump and Vance would know that from the very outset, the Ukrainian president kept trying to push the boundaries of the agreement with maximalist rhetoric in full public glare and eke out from Trump an iron-clad assurance on Ukraines security going above and beyond that which has been negotiated in the draft agreement.

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This was, by any account, terrible diplomacy. Photo-ops of the kind that the three leaders were presumably engaging in are routine business that entails perfunctory rhetoric. Negotiations could be tough and demanding, but only when the doors are closed.

This act of renegotiation before the cameras was a risky manouvre with a mercurial American president who had been surprisingly calm and composed for the first 40 minutes of the interaction. Zelenskyy dismissed the notion of any ceasefire sans security guarantees and appeared unimpressed with the Trump administrations stress on diplomacy to end the war. Trump read Zelenskyys obduracy as disrespect and the dismissal of the ongoing peace process, in which Trump has taken an active interest, as a personal insult.

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As Indias former foreign secretary Nirupama Rao laid out on X, There was no need for him (Zelenskyy) to ventilate his views on Russia, and President Putin when the world knows where Ukraine stands on these issues and how it has been affected. He shouldve said that he was in Washington to help forge an end to the conflict, to bring peace to the people of Ukraine, and that the active involvement and support of the United States in this process was critical, was crucial, was fundamental and that Ukraine would always be grateful for that. Behind closed doors, diplomacy can be transacted in a much more frank and candid way, and Ukraine could have laid out its position with unvarnished clarity before the Americans.

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Worth noting that even after the Oval Office showdown, Zelenskyy is doubling and even tripling down on his position that he wont give diplomacy a chance until and unless a security guarantee for Ukraine is cast in stone.

In a series of posts on X, Zelenskyy wrote we are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees. But its not enough, and we need more than just that. A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. Weve been fighting for three years, and Ukrainian people need to know that America is on our side.

For good measure, lest he be misunderstood, he clarified that the deal on minerals is just a first step toward security guarantees and getting closer to peace.

As I have stated above, this is radically different interpretation of the minerals deal than the one Trump thinks he is signing. The American president has been very clear that his country wont be drawn into an exclusive undertaking to provide security to Ukraine, which he thinks is the preserve of the Europeans.

New York Times accessed the latest draft of the deal that was about to be signed by the leaders, and crucially, it did not signal any specific US commitment to safeguarding Ukraines security. The only sentence Ukrainian negotiators were successful in inserting was that the United States supports Ukraines effort to obtain security guarantees needed to establish lasting peace  a phrase that was absent in previous drafts. The implication is that Europe will pick up the tab.

Important to understand here that this as much as Trump administration is willing to go. Im not going to provide security guarantees beyond very much, the American president reportedly said during his first cabinet meeting Wednesday. Were going to have Europe do that.

Trump is tired of the war, sees no reason why he should be drawn into another unending, forever commitment that involves pumping of American money and arms into a conflict from where he sees no tangible benefits, and cannot understand why he, or the American citizens are expected to show strategic altruism in a losing cause to help keep afloat a leader whom he despises, and who is bent on continuing a war that he dislikes.

Moreover, as Trump told Zelenskyy, he is gambling with World War 3. This isnt mere rhetoric. For America to provide an exclusive security guarantee en route to a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia  that Zelenskyy is insisting on  is a commitment that de facto mimics Article 5 of NATO and may result in catastrophic consequences.

Bear in mind that Zelenskyy, even during the ill-fated press briefing, kept insisting that there can be no compromises with killer Putin on Ukrainian territory. In other words, he still hopes to wrest back the land Ukraine has lost.

What much of the post-debacle commentary has missed out on is that Trump, while refusing to be drawn directly into the war, does not appear to be dismissive of deterrence. For him, the minerals deal that involves a firm American economic commitment, is tantamount to providing Ukraine with insurance against further Russian aggression because he reckons that Putin  with whom he hopes to strike a compact  wont make the mistake of attacking Americans.

To quote Trump, Were going to be working over there. Well be on the land, and you know, that way its this sort of automatic security, he said Wednesday, because nobodys going to be messing around with our people when were there.

Under these circumstances, Zelenskyys belligerence appears less and less reasonable. His rhetoric, tactics and body language during the incendiary bilateral showed a leader drunk on liberal Kool-Aid who is either ignorant of, or has completely failed to judge the tectonic shift in American politics.

Here's what the media WILL NOT show you.



Many in the media are accusing Trump & @JDVance of attacking Zelenskyy.



What they don't show you is how hard President Trump tried to keep the meeting going, and how hard Zelenskyy tried to sabotage it. See for yourself  pic.twitter.com/NsQj1sBuzf  Yitz Friedman (@friedman_yitz) March 2, 2025

Zelenskyys wardrobe choice, that elicited a sarcastic remark from Trump, gave an early indication of his diplomatic naivete. Putting aside the performative outrage and moral screeching, that European leaders have specialised on, Zelenskyy was entering into tough negotiations with a volatile, yet popular POTUS who holds a grudge against the Ukrainian leader. Trump hasnt forgotten that Zelenskyy appeared at a Democratic event in Pennsylvania ahead of the hotly contested presidential polls last year and met a bunch of Democratic leaders just ahead of the Oval Office appointment Friday.

A formal attire would have carried a signal that he is amenable to change. Instead, the war fatigues reinforced the impression that Zelenskyy will not be bullied into submission and cares little about the sensibilities of his hosts  Ukraines biggest benefactors. For Trump, who likes to be in control and revels in his role as the dealmaker, it was a sign of disrespect.

And yet the meeting started off well until Zelenskyy started lecturing Trump and Vance on how ceasefires wont work, that bringing Putin for discussion is futile unless explicit guarantees are placed on the table, and until he entered into a hot exchange with vice-president Vance on the futility of diplomacy. It wasnt until he mocked Trumps comments about nice ocean that Trump erupted, and things went out of control.

The Ukrainian president showed a lack of tactical nous, appeared to have been badly briefed and evidently did not do his homework. His frequent rolling of eyes and crossing of arms, signifying defiance, and a very public antagonistic attitude towards American leaders who feel they owe nothing to Ukraine, will go down in history as a study in hubris.

For European leaders, busy copy-pasting their support, Zelenskyy was the unqualified hero. Americans vehemently disagree. Around 62% Americans found Zelenskyys behaviour offensive. And the debacle has convinced more Americans that their country is helping Ukraine too muchup from 7% to 41%. Trust in Zelenskyy fell from 72% to under 48%.

It doesnt matter what Europeans claim, Ukraine cannot sustain its defence against Russia without American help. This is a hard fact that no amount of spin can overcome. Zelenskyy needed to sign the deal, develop better rapport with Trump and his deputy and ease into negotiations. Trump had already been giving signals about continuing with military aid.

All that Zelenskyy succeeded to do is put the minerals deal in jeopardy, that may lead to Trump halting all military aid to Ukraine.

Regardless of the European virtue-signalling, this war has only three possible ends. America steps in on behalf of Ukraine and engages in a direct military confrontation with Russia, that possesses the worlds largest military arsenal and an autocratic leader who has little to lose; America stays away and allows Ukraine to be swallowed; or a peace deal is hammered out with concessions from both sides. Zelenskyy just blew the third option.

With his maximalist rhetoric, Zelenskyy, like Major Sergius Saranoff in Shaws Arms and the Man, forgot the realities of war. Pampered for so long by European leaders (and even Biden who had admonished him in private for ingratitude), rockstar Zelenskyy, unaccustomed to public admonitions, has almost buried Ukraines survival prospects with his vanity.

Trump may think that he is doing Ukraine a favour, in Zelenskyys book, it is he who is defending the free world against Russian aggression and therefore it is Americas solemn duty to keep supplying him with funds and arms as long as it takes. This sense of narcissism, made worse by unflinching western support, has instilled in Zelenskyy such a sense of entitlement that the Ukrainian president thought he is morally insulated against hard bargains that lie ahead.

Ukraine may pay the price for his stupidity.

The writer is Deputy Executive Editor, Firstpost. He tweets as @sreemoytalukdar. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
India might be much better off instead to strike a side-deal with France and Germany, nations that together account for 40 per cent of the blocs GDP, thereby securing a more tailored and potentially advantageous arrangement read more

Like ancient Greek envoys treading the rocky slopes of Mount Parnassuseach wary of the others hidden daggerIndia now faces negotiations with the European Union that are as delicate as they are consequential.

Indias bilateral trade in goods with the EU was $137.41 billion in 2023-24. Significant exports to the EU were $75.92 billion, with imports of $61.48 billion. A fat yearly trade surplus.

The stakes are high: while the allure of a win-win deala standout, headline-making arrangementbeckons, prudence demands that India limit its free trade ambitions to a measured, selective engagement.

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In recent remarks, Ursula von der Leyen, the EU commissioner, said that as the two countries look to wrap up the free trade agreement (FTA) in 2025, she wants her negotiators to surprise. If New Delhi is not both careful and calibrated, this could be a nasty surprise. This sentiment encapsulates the current zeitgeist: rather than embracing a comprehensive liberalisation that risks overexposure, India should pursue a smaller deal that focuses on sectors where mutual gains are more clearly defined. Key among these are electric vehicle (EV) batteries and technology, where collaboration could unlock growth and efficiency gains. In parallel, a liberal regime for the free movement of skilled labour emerges as a vital counterweight to restrictions imposed by Washington. For Europe, a younger, better-trained workforce willing to integrate is a bonus.

Yet not all sectors share this optimism. The Indian automotive centre, long a symbol of domestic ingenuity, is particularly vulnerable. The EUs insistence on opening markets will hurt Indian, Japanese, and Korean competitors and threatens to undermine local strengths. They are lobbying hard against this. Moreover, the carbon tax championed by European policymakers will stifle the growth in India. It is a tariff barrier, and India must not agree to it. In these contexts, India must play a good hand, carefully calibrating concessions to avoid ceding critical strategic ground.

Perhaps the most thorny challenge lies in agriculturea sector where Indias competitive strengths have historically lagged behind the EU, which has massive agriculture subsidies even bigger than Indias. Dutch horticultural techniques and precision in the production of vegetables, dairy products, and cut flowers present a formidable contrast to the more diffuse strengths of Indian farming. India, therefore, cannot afford to open up too broadly in agriculture; instead, it might selectively allow market access for wine and spirits, where the cultural cachet and demand dynamics differ markedly. In this way, India can protect its domestic agriculture while still reaping the benefits of selective liberalisation.

Geopolitics, even the uninvited partner at the negotiation table, will further constrain any comprehensive deal. India could well leverage its strategic relationship with the US, convincing Washington to slow the reduction of tariffs as a quid pro quo for limiting the scope of the EU agreement. In a twist of realpolitik, India should actually bypass the cumbersome EU machinery altogether. India might be much better off instead to strike a side-deal with France and Germany, nations that together account for 40 per cent of the blocs GDP, thereby securing a more tailored and potentially advantageous arrangement.

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Ultimately, the challenge is to negotiate a pact that maximises strategic sectors for both camps while safeguarding vulnerabilities, a task that requires both finesse and an unyielding sense of purpose. As negotiations draw to a close, one is reminded of the ancient Greek parable of Diogenes and his lanternsearching in the daylight for honesty in a world shadowed by mistrust. In this modern contest of wills, India must illuminate the path forward, giving concessions for sure but securing the areas of strength even as both sides remain ever cautious in the dim light of mutual suspicion.

The writer is a senior journalist with expertise in defence. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Samsungs launching of more powerful cheap smartphones comes only days after Apple launched the $599 iPhone 16e, a more affordable entry point for people interested in its ecosystem read more

Samsung is spreading features of its flagship software to the rest of its lineup. Reuters

Samsung Electronics is expanding its line of devices that enable new artificial intelligence (AI) features with upgraded models from its more accessible A series.

The Galaxy A26 starts at US$299.99, and the companys new lineup includes a trio of 6.7-inch 5G devices with AI advancements in picture editing and Circle Search. Samsung is spreading features of its flagship software to the rest of its lineup, and the US$499.99 Galaxy A56 now has night photography upgrades and a Best Face function to assist optimise group shots.

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Samsungs launching of more powerful cheap smartphones comes only days after Apple launched the $599 iPhone 16e, a more affordable entry point for people interested in its ecosystem. For both organisations, the new models represent an attempt to attract more consumers into the fold at a time when all AI developers are aggressively investing in scaling up.

South Koreas largest corporation blends its own AI technologies with those developed by Alphabets Google, which designed the Android operating system that powers Samsung phones. Apple, on the other hand, is creating its Apple Intelligence suite, albeit it also uses third-party suppliers for some components, such as OpenAIs ChatGPT in the United States and Alibaba Group Holding in China.
Singapore last week charged three men with fraud in a case local media linked to the movement of Nvidias AI chips from the city-state to Chinese artificial intelligence firm DeepSeek read more

Servers used in a fraud case that Singapore announced last week were supplied by U.S. firms and may have contained Nvidias advanced chips, a government minister said on Monday.

Singapore last week charged three men with fraud in a case local media linked to the movement of Nvidias AI chips from the city-state to Chinese artificial intelligence firm DeepSeek.

Broadcaster Channel News Asia said it understood the cases were linked to the alleged movement of Nvidia chips from Singapore to be used by DeepSeek, without identifying its source.

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Singapores Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam told reporters on Monday that the servers involved in the case were supplied by Dell Technologies and Super Micro Computer before they were sent to Malaysia.

Whether Malaysia was the final destination  we do not know for certain at this point, he said, adding the authorities were investigating the case independently after an anonymous tip-off.

He also said Singapore has asked the U.S. authorities if the servers contained U.S. export control items, and told them it would work with them in any joint investigation.

The United States is investigating if DeepSeek, the Chinese company whose AI models performance rocked the tech world in January, has been using U.S. chips that are not allowed to be shipped to China, Reuters reported earlier.

Reuters also reported last year that Chinese universities and research institutes obtained Nvidias advanced AI chips embedded in server products made by Dell, Super Micro and Taiwans Gigabyte Technology.
The UK data watchdog has also launched similar probes against Reddit and Imgur, focusing on their handling of childrens data. The investigation will especially check how these platforms verify the users age and enforce age-related content regulation read more

Chinese social media platform TikTok is facing a probe by the UKs data watchdog over its handling of childrens data. The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) is aiming to understand how TikTok processes data of kids aged 13 to 17 to further recommend them content and keep them engaged.

According to John Edwards, the Information Commissioner, there are certain risks associated with handling of data related to kids, including the sensitive information being leaked.

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However, it must be noted that the probe itself doesnt mean the company has broken any law.

Why is TikTok being investigated?

TikToks algorithm uses and analyses a users engagement pattern to recommend more content to them.

It also feeds on the users personal data, including profiles, interests, content consumed and links clicked.

John Edwards says this aspect of TikToks operations warrants a thorough investigation by the ICO. The probe will check whether the social media company adheres to the UKs data protection laws as well as the children code, which lays out protocols to handle childrens data.

TikToks clarification

In a statement to UK broadcaster BBC, TikTok said it had comprehensive measures in place to protect data of teens.

It said its systems operated under strict and comprehensive measures that protect the privacy and safety of teens. The statement added that the platform has robust restrictions on the content allowed in teens feeds.

Reddit and Imgur also being probed

The ICO has also launched similar probes against Reddit and Imgur, focusing on their handling of childrens data.

The investigation will especially check how these platforms verify the users age and enforce age-related content regulation.

I dont want to pre-judge how we might look at the Imgur and Reddit matters, but if there are age limits for accessing services, then the platforms have to enforce those in some ways, Edwards was quoted by BBC as saying.

Both Reddit and Imgur are immensely popular in the UK, with Reddit becoming the fifth most popular platform in the country.

There are a number of different technologies and techniques that are available, I would say, and the degree of rigor, I think, depends in part upon the kinds of risks, the likelihood that children will be accessing those sites, the commissioner further stated.

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He added that if any of these companies are found to be in violation of UK laws, there will be consequences.

(With inputs from agencies)
Last month, it was reported that US officials were threatening Kyiv to cut off Ukrainian forces access to vital Starlink network to press it to sign minerals deal read more

With the differences between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy coming out in the open after the shocking White House clash, one thing is quite clear: Kyiv can no longer rely on US support to fight off Russian forces. It essentially means Ukraine should brace for Trump ally Elon Musk shutting down their access to crucial satellite communication system via Starlink.

Last month, it was reported that US officials were threatening Kyiv to cut off Ukrainian forces access to vital Starlink network to press it to sign minerals deal. Ukraine last year was using 42,000 Starlink terminals, half of which were being funded by Poland.

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Now, Politico has reported that the European Commission is trying to figure out how it could provide Ukraine with access to alternative platforms.

Kyiv expressed interest in Govsatcom

According to Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier, Kyiv has expressed interest in Govsatcom.

Govsatcom is a network of EUs existing national government satellite capacity. The European Union Governmental Satellite Communications (GOVSATCOM) is part of the EUs space programme.

Kyiv is also exploring using IRIS, a new constellation only set to be operational in the 2030s.

The Commission will pursue its contacts with Ukraine in that regard, said Regnier.

Earlier this week, French Renew MEP Christophe Grudler urged the EU executive in a letter to urgently explore alternative satellite solutions for Ukraine instead of relying on Starlink.

Grudler suggested that expediting the deployment of Govsatcom this yearby bypassing the certification processcould serve as a temporary solution while the EU develops its IRIS satellite network.

EU official Philippe Regnier stated that Govsatcom could provide Ukraine with precursor governmental services, without providing any details.

Losing Starlink would be a massive blow

Last month, Reuters quoted a source, familiar with discussions between US and Ukrainian officials over Starlink access, as saying that losing the satellite communication capacity would be a massive blow for Ukrainian forces.

Ukraine runs on Starlink. They consider it their North Star, said the source. Losing Starlink  would be a massive blow.

US billionaire Elon Musk provided Ukraine with access to SpaceXs Starlink system shortly after its communications services were destroyed by Russia in 2022. Experts believe Starlink is essential to mount Ukraines drone attack and shutdown of the service would be a real setback.

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(With inputs from agencies)
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid request the Trump administration to explain to the president and correct his information about Afghanistan read more

A hangar can be seen behind barbed wire fencing at Bagram Air Base after the U.S. military left the facility, in Parwan province, north of Kabul, Afghanistan, July 5, 2021. File Image: AP

Afghanistans Taliban has rejected claims made by US President Donald Trump that China holds control over Bagram Airfield, a crucial US-operated military base in Afghanistan. The sprawling Air Base in question is situated about 44 kilometres north of the national capital of Kabul and served as the central command for the 20-year US-led campaign in the country.

However, things changed in August 2021 when US and NATO troops withdrew from Afghanistan after the Taliban took over the country. They should refrain from making emotional statements based on unsubstantiated information, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told their official broadcaster when asked for a response to Trumps claims that China currently controls the air base.

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Bagram is controlled by the Islamic Emirate [Taliban regime], not China. Chinese troops are not present here, nor do we have any such pact with any country, Mujahid said in the interview broadcast on Saturday night. He went on to request the Trump administration to explain to the president and correct his information about Afghanistan.

Trump & Afghanistan

It was Trump who negotiated the troop withdrawal deal with the Taliban back in February 2020. But the overall deal was implemented during former US President Joe Bidens term. During his election campaign speeches, Trump frequently claimed that Bagram was under the control of Chinas Peoples Liberation Army, and he reiterated it before his first Cabinet meeting last Wednesday, saying Biden should have kept control of the former US base.

Trump started to push the rhetoric at a time when Beijing has increased cooperation with Taliban-run Afghanistan since the American troops exit from the country. We were going to get out, but we were going to keep Bagram, not because of Afghanistan but because of China, because its exactly one hour away from where China makes its nuclear missiles, Trump stated in his Wednesday remarks. And you know whos occupying it right now? China. Biden gave it up, he said.

What about the billions of dollars worth of military equipment?

During his rant on Afghanistan Trump also condemned the Biden administration, claiming that they handled the situation poorly, saying the departing troops left behind billions of dollars worth of equipment. Trump went on to claim that the Taliban were selling US-made gear, making Afghanistan one of the biggest sellers of military equipment in the world.

Can you believe it? Theyre selling 777,000 rifles, 70,000 armour-platedtrucks and vehicles  70,000  This is 70,000 vehicles we had there, and we left it for them. I think we should get it back, the president said. He pledged to reclaim the military equipment from the Taliban if Washington were to allocate billions of dollars in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

And if were doing that, I think they should give our equipment back. And I told Pete to study that, the president said, pointing to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth sitting beside him. While responding to Trumps assertion, Mujahid said the military equipment had been provided to the US-backed former government in Kabul and now belongs to the Taliban as spoils of war.

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The Talibani spokesperson emphasised that the draconian group use the weapons to defend Afghanistan and will be utilized to counter any intervention aimed at taking them back. He added that if the United States intends to take back the weapons, Kabul will rightfully expect substantial war reparations for the consequences Afghans have endured over the past two decades of conflict, VOA reported.

With inputs from agencies.
Trudeau said in London on Sunday that he will meet with Charles to address issues of importance to Canadians, and that nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and independence as a nation' read more

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with the countrys head of state, King Charles III, on Monday to address U.S. President Donald Trumps threats to declare Canada the 51st state.

The monarch has faced criticism in Canada for being mute on Trumps plans to takeover Canada.

Trudeau said in London on Sunday that he will meet with Charles to address issues of importance to Canadians, and that nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and independence as a nation.

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Charles is the head of state of Canada, which is part of the British Commonwealth of former colonies.

Overall, the antiroyal movement in Canada is small, but the silence of the monarch on Trumps threats have spurred talk in recent days.

Former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said for Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented on Trumps threats he can only act on the advice of Canadas prime minister.

For Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented on President Trumps threats to annex Canada: in his capacity as King of Canada, he can only act on the advice of his Canadian first minister, i.e. Justin Trudeau.



Thats a core constitutional principle.



I wish our  Jason Kenney  (@jkenney) March 1, 2025

The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty, Kenney posted on X.

The king, who met Sunday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has invited Trump to come to Scotland for a state visit.

This evening, His Majesty The King received the President of Ukraine, @ZelenskyyUa, at Sandringham House.  pic.twitter.com/mhGr7C0BN4  The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) March 2, 2025

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Great news that the Prime Minister will be having an audience with the King of Canada tomorrow. Hopefully this result in the King making a statement regarding his Canadian Realm, constitutional lawyer Lyle Skinner posed on X.

Academic Philippe Lagasse said the UK government will likely fight possible advice from Trudeau for the king to speak out on Canadas behalf but Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, said many Canadians would want a public statement from the king and they might be mad if that doesnt happen.

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Beland said he hopes Trudeau raises it with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer first.

This is a highly delicate diplomatic matter and these three players must tread very carefully, not only because of the tense international context and President Trumps potential negative public reaction but also because any mistake here could hurt the image and political legitimacy of the monarchy, Beland said.

Though Canadians are somewhat indifferent to the monarchy, many had great affection for the late Queen Elizabeth, whose silhouette marks their coins. She was the head of state for more than 40% of Canadas existence and visited the country 22 times as monarch.

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Visits by Charles over the years have attracted sparse crowds.

Canadians will need to decide what purpose King Charles III serves as King of Canada if he cant even speak up for our sovereignty, Artur Wilczynski, a former Canadian public servant, posted on X.

Abolishing the monarchy would mean changing the constitution. Thats an inherently risky undertaking, given how delicately it is engineered to unite a nation of 41 million people that embraces English-speakers, French-speakers, Indigenous tribes and a constant flow of new immigrants.
On Sunday, Egypt and Qatar said that the Israeli move violated the ceasefire deal, while the UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher referred to the blockade as alarming read more

Several Arab nations and the United Nations have condemned Israels decision to block the entry of all humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip as hopes of the continuation of the ceasefire start to fade. On Sunday, Egypt and Qatar said that the Israeli move violated the ceasefire deal, while the UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher referred to the blockade as alarming.

Meanwhile, Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that the country decided to block the entry of the aid because Hamas was stealing the supplies and using them to finance its terror machine. He went on to accuse the Palestinian group of rejecting the proposal pushed by the US to extend the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which expired on Saturday.

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Hamas spokesperson, on the other hand, argued that Israels blockade was cheap blackmail and a coup against the ceasefire agreement, BBC reported. The recent ceasefire deal halted 15 months of fighting between Hamas and the Israeli military, allowing the release of 33 Israeli hostages for about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

Condemnation pours in

In a statement on Sunday, Qatars foreign ministry said it strongly condemns the Israeli decision, describing it as a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement and international humanitarian law. The Egyptian foreign ministry went on to accuse Israel of using starvation as a weapon against the Palestinian people, AFP reported.

Both Qatar and Egypt have been the key players in mediating the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The two were not the only Arab nations that condemned the Israeli move. Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, expressed its condemnation and denunciation of the Israeli aid blockade, the foreign ministry said.

Meanwhile, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to raise concern over the issue at hand. International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid, he said. Netanyahu and Israel collectively defended themselves, saying that it decided to act because Hamas steals the supplies and prevents the people of Gaza from getting them.

It uses these supplies to finance its terror machine, which is aimed directly at Israel and our civilians, and this we cannot accept, the Israeli premier averred. Hamas has frequently denied stealing humanitarian aid in Gaza. Amidst all this, negotiations are underway on phase two of the ceasefire. However, the talks have barely begun.

Phase two would entail a permanent ceasefire, which would lead to the release of all remaining living hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. It was due to have started soon after the end of the first phase of the ceasefire. Currently, there are around 24 hostages alive, with another 39 presumed to be dead.

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Phase three of the ceasefire deal is supposed to lead to the return of all the remaining bodies of the Israeli hostages along with the reconstruction of Gaza, which is expected to take years. Hamas has maintained that it would not agree to any extension of phase one without some sort of guarantee from the mediators that phase two of the ceasefire would eventually take place.

With inputs from agencies.
Chinese state media has reported that Beijing is looking to target Americas agriculture exports in response, raising fears of an all-out trade war between the worlds two largest economies read more

As US President Donald Trump looks set to slap an additional 10 per cent tariff on Chinese imports starting Tuesday (March 4), China is also preparing to fire retaliatory shots.

Chinese state media has reported that Beijing is looking to target Americas agriculture exports in response, raising fears of an all-out trade war between the worlds two largest economies.

Global Times, Chinas propaganda outlet controlled by the Communist party, reported that Chinas retaliatory measures may include both tariffs and a series of non-tariff measures, and US agricultural and food products will most likely be listed.

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The proposed 10 per cent tariff on Chinese goods on Tuesday will take overall tariffs to 20 per cent, given that initial 10 per cent duty went into effect last month.

Significance of Chinese market for US

Notably, China is the biggest export market for American agricultural and food products. The sector has been often utilised by China as a punching bag whenever trade tensions occur between the two nations.

According to experts, if China goes ahead with imposing tariffs on products like soybean and grains, it could hurt American farmers and American food exports.

Last year, China imported agricultural goods worth $29.25 billion from the US, 14 per cent less than the 2023 figures.

It must be noted that US agricultural exports to China have seen a constant decline since 2018, when Beijing slapped tariffs of up to 25 per cent on soybeans, beef, pork, wheat, corn and sorghum in retaliation for duties on Chinese goods imposed by Trump.

In 2024, the US shipped about half of its soybean exportstotalling $12.8 billionto China, according to the US Census Bureau.

However, China has increasingly turned to cheaper Brazilian soybeans, reducing its reliance on American supplies. As a result, the US market share in China fell to 21 per cent in 2024, down from 40 per cent in 2016, according to Chinese customs data.

The US also lost its dominance as Chinas primary corn supplier after Beijing approved Brazilian imports in 2022. In 2024, Chinas purchases of US corn dropped sharply to $561 million, down from $2.6 billion in 2023, as domestic production increased.
Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have swept through the region seizing key cities and killing some 3,000 people in the most significant escalation of conflict in over a decade. read more

Despite increasing international pressure, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains resolute in its refusal to engage in direct talks with the M23 rebel group, which has gained significant ground in the countrys east in recent months.

M23, the most dominant among numerous armed groups operating in the region is vying for control over eastern Congo, an area rich in trillions of dollars worth of untapped mineral resources essential for global technology.

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Congos President Felix Tshisekedi has dismissed the possibility of peace talks with M23, accusing the group of being a proxy for Rwanda aimed at illegally exploiting Congos natural wealth. Last week, the UK government joined calls for an inclusive dialogue involving M23 to seek a political resolution to the conflict.

However, in an interview with the BBC, DR Congo Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka stated that her government prefers to negotiate directly with Rwanda, which it alleges supports M23.

The conflict has escalated since January, with Congolese authorities reporting at least 8,500 deaths and hundreds of thousands displaced. UN experts and others have implicated Rwanda in playing a significant role in the violence.

Peace talks mediated by Angola stalled last December after Rwanda insisted on direct negotiations between the Congolese government and M23. Following the impasse, the rebel group rapidly advanced, capturing the cities of Goma and Bukavu in January and February.

During a recent regional mediation effort involving East and Southern African leaders, calls were made for a ceasefire, the withdrawal of uninvited foreign armed forces from Congolese territory, and direct talks between state and non-state parties, including M23.

When questioned about the presence of Rwandan troops in DR Congo, Rwandan President Paul Kagame neither confirmed nor denied it, simply stating, I dont know, in a CNN interview.

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A day after Israel blocked aid deliveries into Gaza amid an impasse in truce talks, Israel on Monday defended its decision and accused Hamas militants of hoarding supplies, including enough food in Gaza, according to a report read more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks at a memorial ceremony for those killed by Hamas during the October 7, 2023 attack, in Jerusalem, on October 28, 2024. AP File

A day after Israel blocked aid deliveries into Gaza amid an impasse in truce talks, Israel on Monday defended its decision and accused Hamas militants of hoarding supplies, including enough food in Gaza.

Addressing a press briefing on Monday, AFP quoted Israeli government spokesman David Mencer as saying, The Palestinian group was hoarding supplies for its militants for months and months and has enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic.

He added that no one is going hungry in Hamas and that the supplies are there, but Hamas dont share.

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Reacting to Israels decision to block aid, Arab states including Egypt and Qatar said that Israels move violated the ceasefire deal and accused it of using food as a weapon of war.

The Egyptian foreign ministry accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon against the Palestinian people.

Similarly, Qatars foreign ministry said, Qatar strongly condemns the decision of the Israeli occupation government to stop bringing humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, and considers it a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement, (and) international humanitarian law, adding its rejection of the use of food as a weapon of war.

The UN secretary general, Antonio Guterres, demanded that humanitarian aid flow back into Gaza immediately with the organisations humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher describing the move as alarming.

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus office announced that it is implementing a blockade on Gaza because Hamas refused to accept a plan proposed by US special envoy Steve Witkoff.

The plan aimed to extend the first phase of the ceasefire, continue releasing hostages, and delay the second phase, which would theoretically involve a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, effectively ending the conflict.

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With the end of phase one of the hostage deal, and in light of Hamass refusal to accept the Witkoff outline for continuing talks  to which Israel agreed  Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease. Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our hostages, The Guardian quoted Prime Minister Netanyahus office as saying in a statement.

If Hamas continues its refusal, there will be further consequences, the statement added.

After the announcement, Netanyahus spokesperson, Omer Dostri, said, No trucks entered Gaza this morning, nor will they at this stage.

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A spokesperson for Palestinian militant group Hamas said Israels blockade was cheap blackmail and a coup against the internationally mediated ceasefire agreement.

Meanwhile, Israels PM Netanyahu on Monday warned Hamas of consequences it cannot imagine if the Palestinian Islamist movement does not release the hostages held in Gaza.

I tell Hamas: If you do not release our hostages, there will be consequences that you cannot imagine, AFP quoted Netanyahu as saying aid during a speech at the Israeli parliament, as negotiations for the Gaza ceasefires continuation have stalled.

Praising US President Donald Trumps visionary and innovative plan to forcibly remove Gaza residents, Netanyahu said it was time to give Palestinians the freedom to leave the territory.

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President Trump presented a visionary and innovative vision for the freedom of migration from Gaza, and I believe its a vision that should be supported, Netanyahu said, adding, Its time to give the residents of Gaza a real choice. Its time to give them the freedom to leave.

With inputs from agencies
Even as Europe stood in solidarity with Ukraine in London at the initiative of British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, the European leaders did not seek to bypass the United States but to tell President Donald Trump that they are willing to step up and convince him that he must stay involved in European affairs read more

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is joined by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and other Western leaders, including President Emmanuel Macron of France and PM Giorgia Meloni of Italy, at a summit in London on February 2, 2025, on Ukraine. (Photo: Reuters)

Even as European leaders converged in London on Sunday to rally around Ukraine, the purpose was not to bypass the United States.

On the contrary, the purpose was to show the United States that Europe is willing to step up aid and contribute to the enforcement of any ceasefire.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have made it clear that the United States will need to be part of any ceasefire enforcement in Ukraine even as they are willing to deploy a European peacekeeping force.

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Even as Starmer pitched a coalition of the willing from among European nations to back Ukraine, he said the United Stated remained a reliable ally and one thats crucial to any solution for Ukraine. He said, I wouldnt be taking this step down this road if I didnt think it would yield a positive outcome in terms of ensuring that we move together.

ALSO READ: Coalition of the willing: What is peace plan for Ukraine discussed at Starmers London summit?

Along with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Starmer and Macron are working as Europes bridge to US President Donald Trump where they have a multipurpose agenda. While they are trying to demonstrate that Europe is united behind Ukraine come what may, they are also telling Trump that Europe is willing to do more to help Ukraine and, at the same time, convince him to stay involved in Ukraine and Europe. The last bit may be the hardest as Trump has nearly completely aligned his foreign policy, particularly in Europe, with that of Russia.

Mujtaba Rahman, an analyst at Eurasia Group, said that Starmers initiative is also about preparing Europe for a worst-case scenario.

Starmer has two goals. Build an offer with the Ukrainians and Europeans that keeps the U.S. positively engaged in Ukraines security, while simultaneously preparing for a worst-case scenario where that may not prove possible, Rahman told The New York Times.

For as long as it may take

In a sharp contrast to the scenes at White House in which Trump and his deputy JD Vance berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and then kicked him out without holding the scheduled talks, Starmer warmly greeted Zelenskyy and then escorted him to the motorcade after their meeting. Zelenskyy later also met King Charles III. If the symbolism was not enough to convey the commitment, Starmer put it in words too.

Starmer said, We stand with you and Ukraine for as long as it may take.

Starmer also made it clear that Ukraine has to be part of talks that decide the nations future. This is in sharp contrast to Trumps approach who is negotiating directly with Russia and has said that Ukraine does not necessarily belong on the table that makes decisions about the war.

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Starmer outlined four pillars of any deal that would end the war in Ukraine.

Firstly, military aid must keep flowing to Ukraine so that the country can negotiate from a position of strength.

Secondly, Ukraine must be part of the talks that decide its sovereignty and security.

Thirdly, once a ceasefire deal is reached, Ukraines defences will be strengthened to deter any future Russian aggression.

Fourthly, a coalition will be formed to defend the deal.

The fourth point was a reference to a European peacekeeping force that Starmer and Macron have pitched.

A coalition of the willing is required to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace the peace, said Starmer.

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Europe takes lead but seeks US backing

While Starmer said that a European peacekeeping force will enforce the ceasefire in Ukraine, he made it clear that the United States should be part of the deal.

This is part of the broader approach to convince Trump that staying involved in Europe is in the interests of the United States and that even as Europe is willing to take the lead, the US involvement is a must for lasting peace.

ALSO READ: Is Trump deserting Europe?

Starmer said, Not every nation will feel able to contribute. But that cant mean we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now  with real urgency. The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground, and planes in the air together with others. Europe must do the heavy lifting but to support peace on our continent, and to succeed, this effort must have strong US backing.

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Were working with the US on this point, after my meeting with President Trump last week. And let me be clear  we agree with the President on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver, together.

As per a plan drafted by Starmer and Macron, a European force will enforce the ceasefire in Ukraine, but a backstop deployment of the US forces in an eastern European nation to support the European peacekeepers in case Russia escalates is a must.

An ally of Starmer told Financial Times, The prime ministers priority is to do whatever it takes to defend Ukraine. That means the US has to be involved. You have to fix that relationship and get back to that minerals deal.

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Even though Starmer sent a signal to Trump that the UK will stand with Ukraine come what may, a second ally of Starmer told FT that mending ties with Trump is still a must for Zelenskyy.

The PM will bring people together and politely make sure they realise that there is only one negotiation in town  and thats President Trumps, said this ally.

Despite Trumps alignment with Putin, Starmer is confident at least in public that he can convince Trump to not abandon Europe.

I wouldnt be taking this step down this road if I didnt think it would yield a positive outcome in terms of ensuring that we move together, said Starmer.
After Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected calls for an immediate ceasefire, the United Kingdom has distanced from a ceasefire proposal floated by French President Emmanuel Macron read more

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain's Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, and France's President Emmanuel Macron embrace after holding a meeting during a summit at Lancaster House in central London, UK, on February 2, 2025. (Photo: Reuters)

After Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the call for an immediate ceasefire, the United Kingdom has distanced from a truce proposal floated by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Following the European leaders summit in London on Sunday, Macron told French newspaper Le Figaro that the UK and France have come up with a partial monthlong ceasefire proposal, according to the English translation carried by Reuters.

However, in a later interview with Financial Times, Zelenskyy rejected the idea of an immediate ceasefire and then the UK also distanced itself from the proposal and said its solely a French proposal.

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The development comes at a time when Europe is taking lead towards peacemaking efforts in Ukraine. Macron and British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer have drafted a proposal for a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine backed by the United States. However, the two sides are apparently not in agreement regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Macron floats ceasefire proposal, Zelenskyy rejects it

Following the summit in London, Macron said that the UK and France have come up with a one-month partial ceasefire proposal, according to English translations carried by Reuters.

Macron said that the ceasefire would halt the fighting in the air and sea and attacks on energy infrastructure, but not fighting on the ground.

Under such a plan, European peacekeepers would only be deployed in Ukraine in the second phase and there will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks, Macron told Le Figaro, according to translated remarks.

Macron further said, The question is how we use this time to try to obtain a truce, with negotiations that will take several weeks and then, once peace is signed, a (troop) deployment.

ALSO READ: Starmer to present Trump plan to deploy European peacekeepers in Ukraine: Report

Zelenskyy rejected the call for ceasefire and said an immediate ceasefire would be a failure for everyone.

If you dont have an end to the war and you dont have security guarantees, no one is able to control a ceasefire, said Zelenskyy in the interview with FT.

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Zelenskyy maintained the importance of security guarantees in the interview and said more dialogue is needed to firm up any proposal.

Zelenskyy said, We will have a working plan of action and a clearer vision of what security guarantees can be given to Ukraine. For us, security guarantees are confidence that the same things wont happen after this hot stage [is over]All of these structures are sending signals to each other. And I think it would be simpler to have more time for direct dialogue. I dont know their tactics.

UK distances from Macrons proposal

Even though Macron in the interview pitched it as a joint proposal, the UK has distanced itself from the it.

An ally of Starmer told FT that what Macron said was not a a UK plan.

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A British official further said, There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed.

ALSO READ: US security guarantees a must, Putin eyes not just Ukraine but all Europe, says Zelenskyy

Separately, UK armed forces minister Luke Pollard told Sky News that any pause at the moment would allow Russia to regroup and return to the battlefield later.

He told Sky News: The very real worry that the Ukrainians have is that any short pause in the war simply allows the Russians time to re-arm, regroup and reinvade.

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A female suicide bomber killed a Pakistani paramilitary force member and injured four others in Pakistans southwestern Balochistan province in an attack claimed by separatists, a district official said on Monday read more

Pakistan's national flag at the Mausoleum of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi, Pakistan on August 14, 2022. Reuters File

A female suicide bomber killed a Pakistani paramilitary force member and injured four others in Pakistans southwestern Balochistan province in an attack claimed by separatists, a district official said on Monday.

One soldier of the Frontier Corps was killed and four others injured in the suicide attack conducted by a female suicide bomber, said Bilal Shabbir, the deputy commissioner of Kalat District where the attack took place.

Several ethnic insurgent groups in Balochistan are battling the central government, saying it unfairly exploits gas and mineral resources in the province, where poverty is rife.

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One of the groups, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has previously used female militants to stage attacks, though they mostly involve male perpetrators.

Mondays attack was claimed by a lesser-known faction of BLA known as the Baloch Liberation Army (Azad), in a message sent to journalists.

In August, at least 73 people were killed when separatist militants attacked police stations, railway lines and highways and security forces launched retaliatory operations.
Macron also suggested that European countries should raise their defence spending to between 3.0 and 3.5 percent of GDP to respond to Washingtons shifting priorities and Russias militarisation read more

France and Britain are proposing a one-month cease-fire in Ukraine in the air, at sea, and on energy infrastructure following crisis talks in London, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday.

In an interview with Frances Le Figaro daily, Macron stated that such a truce would not initially encompass ground fighting.

He stated that given the magnitude of the front line, it would be extremely impossible to ensure that it was being followed.

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Peacekeepers will be sent later, he claimed, adding that there wont be European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks.

Macron also suggested that European countries should raise their defence spending to between 3.0 and 3.5 percent of GDP to respond to Washingtons shifting priorities and Russias militarisation.

For three years, the Russians have spent 10 percent of their GDP on defence, he told the paper. So we have to prepare for whats next.

In a separate interview with Milans Il Foglio newspaper, Macron also said that Europe needed a strong Italy to help resolve the conflict in Ukraine.

At Sundays crisis talks Italys Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni appeared to dismiss the prospect of her country contributing to any peacekeeping force in Ukraine, saying it was never on the agenda.

We need Italy, a strong Italy which works side-by-side with France, with Germany, in the concert of great nations, Macron said, according to a translation of his comments published in Italian.
The Nobel laureate said the situation in Bangladesh had severely affected him, and he was concerned about how the country would deal with the challenges ahead read more

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen expressed grave concern about the current situation in Bangladesh, saying his friend Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to the neighbouring countrys interim administration, is making significant changes but faces a long road ahead to settle the impasse.

Sen said the situation in Bangladesh had severely affected him, and he was concerned about how the country would deal with the challenges ahead.

Sen told PTI in an exclusive interview at his residence in Santiniketan, West Bengals Birbhum district, that Bangladesh, which has mostly kept sectarian movements like the Jamaat under control, should maintain its remarkable dedication to secularism.

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The situation in Bangladesh affects me deeply because I have a strong Bengali sense of identity, Sen told PTI.

I have spent a lot of time in Dhaka and began my school education there. Aside from Dhaka, I often visited my ancestral home in Manikganj. On my maternal side, I regularly visited Bikrampur, particularly Sonarang. These places have deep personal significance for me. Like many others, I am worried about how Bangladesh will overcome its current challenges, he said.

Sen, who grew up in Dhaka, began his formal education at St. Gregorys School. He eventually relocated to Santiniketan, where he attended the school of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

Regarding Bangladeshs development after gaining independence, Sen emphasised the nations advances in per capita income, which at one time surpassed that of India, as well as a significant drop in birth rates and a greater life expectancy than India.

Bangladesh has undergone major economic and social transformations, particularly in advancing womens rights, with contributions from both the government and non-governmental organisations like BRAC and Grameen Bank, he said.

Sen also noted that newspapers in Bangladesh remained relatively free, with many flourishing despite taking strong anti-government positions.

He praised the Bangladeshi Army for its restraint in not attempting to establish military rule, as has happened in many other countries.

He cautioned against banning the Awami League, arguing that such a move would repeat the same mistakes that other parties had accused the Awami government of making.

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I think Bangladesh should make the best use of its tradition of working together rather than attempting to sideline any particular group. A broader perspective is needed. I hope that the Bengali commitment to freedom and pluralism will persist. And I hope future elections will be more visibly free than many claim they have been. There is room for change. I am worried about Bangladesh, but I am not without hope, he said.

Asked about his assessment of Muhammad Yunus as Bangladeshs chief advisor, Sen remarked, Yunus is an old friend. I know he is highly capable and, in many ways, a remarkable human being. He has made strong statements about Bangladeshs secularism and democratic commitment. If you suddenly become the head of a country, as Yunus effectively has, you must consider various factions. There are Islamic parties, and now Hindu factions as well. I have great confidence in Yunus abilities, Sen said.

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Sen strongly condemned attacks on Hindu minorities and the vandalisation of temples, emphasising that it was the responsibility of both the government and the public to prevent such violence.

This is an important issue because Bangladesh has historically taken pride in its treatment of minorities and its efforts to keep communal forces like Jamaat in check. Unfortunately, there have also been attacks on mosques in India. These incidents, whether in Bangladesh or India, must stop, he asserted.

There is nothing easier than fueling communalism by selectively amplifying certain incidents. This is how the Hindu-Muslim riots of the 1940s escalated, leading to bloodshed. We must reflect on our past and consider our future in that light. Selective publicity can be extremely dangerous, Sen warned.

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Indian woman Shahzadi Khan, who was facing a death sentence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for killing a child, has been executed, the Foreign Ministry said on Monday read more

Indian woman Shahzadi Khan, who was facing a death sentence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for killing a child, has been executed, the Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

The XP Division of the Ministry of External Affairs said that the UAE authorities intimated them about the execution on February 28, 2025.

An Indian national, Shahzadi, was convicted on charges of murder of an infant and sentenced to death in the UAE. The highest court of the UAE, the Court of Cassation, upheld the sentence. The Embassy provided all possible legal assistance to Shahzadi, including sending mercy  ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

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An Indian national, Shahzadi, was convicted on charges of murder of an infant and sentenced to death in the UAE. The highest court of the UAE, the Court of Cassation, upheld the sentence, XP Division, MEA, in a statement on Monday.

The statement added that the Embassy provided all possible legal assistance to Shahzadi, including sending mercy petitions and pardon requests to the UAE government.

The UAE authorities intimated to the Embassy on February 28, 2025 that the sentence of Shahzadi has been carried out in accordance with local laws. The family of Shahzadi has been informed of the matter, added the statement.

Earlier on Monday, the foreign ministry informed the Delhi High Court that Shahzadi Khan was executed on February 15, 2025, in accordance with the laws and regulations of UAE.

According to a NDTV report, Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma said the Indian embassy in UAE received an official communication about Khans execution from the government on February 28.

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Authorities are extending all possible assistance and that her cremation is scheduled for March 5, 2025, NDTV quoted Sharma as saying.

This came after Khans father Shabbir Khan approached the court seeking to access information regarding the exact current legal status and well-being of his daughter.

Following the Ministrys submissions, the court disposed of the plea calling it a sad and unfortunate incident.

The case

Shahzadi Khan, sentenced to death for the death of a child under her care, was imprisoned in Abu Dhabis Al Wathba jail. Her father, Shabbir Khan, revealed in his petition that she travelled to Abu Dhabi in December 2021 with a legal visa.

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In August 2022, Khan became a caregiver for a newborn, who tragically died on December 7, 2022, after routine vaccinations.

The petition mentioned a video in which Khan allegedly confessed to the childs murder in December 2023; however, it argued that the confession was coerced through torture by her employer and family.

It also noted that the infants parents refused a postmortem and waived further investigation into the death.

While the Indian Embassy provided legal counsel, Khan reportedly faced pressure to confess and lacked proper representation.

Khans appeal was dismissed in September 2023, and her death sentence was upheld on February 28, 2024.

After filing a new mercy petition in May 2024, Shabbir received a call from his daughter on February 14, 2025, indicating an imminent execution.

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He formally requested an inquiry into her legal status and wellbeing from the Foreign Ministry on February 20, 2025, but has yet to receive a response.

With inputs from agencies
The Ukrainian leader and his European allies are on a damage control spree after the debacle in the White House earlier this week when Trump and Vice President JD Vance got into a verbal spat with Zelenskyy over the war in Ukraine read more

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy departs after a press conference with U.S. President Donald Trump was canceled following their Oval Office meeting at the White House in Washington, D.C. Reuters

Days after his heated confrontation with US President Donald Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared a video message in which he once again thanked the United States for its support in the war against Russia. The Ukrainian leader and his European allies are on a damage control spree after the debacle in the White House earlier this week when Trump and Vice President JD Vance got into a verbal spat with Zelenskyy over the war in Ukraine.

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During the meeting, Trump insinuated that Zelenskyy was gambling with World War Three, while Vance frequently questioned if the Ukrainian leader was grateful for the American help. At the start of his video message on Sunday, Zelenskyy thanked the European leaders for putting on a united front in support of Ukraine. Then, he frequently mentioned that he was grateful for Americas help.

As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate.



Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The pic.twitter.com/inGxdO8jQz  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate, Zelenskyy said at the start of the video message. Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkey, he added.

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What we need is peace: Zelenskyy

In the video message, Zelenskyy reiterated that not a day went by when Ukraine did not express gratitude for the United States. Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support weve received from the United States. There has not been a day when we havent felt gratitude, Zelenskyy said.

Its gratitude for the preservation of our independence  our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us  and for their own security, he added. Zelenskyy concluded his message by emphasising that what the war-stricken nation needs right now is peace, not endless war. And thats why we say security guarantees are the key to this, he averred.

The remarks from Zelenskyy came after he attended a summit of European leaders during his visit to London. The leaders discussed how to navigate the wrath of Russia and the coldness of Trump as they pushed for a new proposal to ensure peace.

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During the summit, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged an additional 1.6 billion in UK export finance to support Ukraine. This funding will enable Ukraine to purchase over 5,000 air defence missiles, which will be manufactured in Belfast.

This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now and strengthening Ukraine in securing peace when it comes. We have to learn from the mistakes of the past. We cannot accept a weak deal like Minsk, which Russia can breach with ease," Starmer said on Sunday. Overall, itll be interesting to see how Zelenskyy will salvage the deteriorating ties with the US.

With inputs from agencies.

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Netanyahu has long expressed his opposition to Iran, its nuclear programme and its proxies, which include Palestinian militant group Hamas with which Israel has been fighting in the Gaza Strip since October 2023 read more

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday thanked US President Donald Trump for sending munitions held up by the previous administration, which would help finish the job against Irans terror axis.

Netanyahu has long expressed his opposition to Iran, its nuclear programme and its proxies, which include Palestinian militant group Hamas with which Israel has been fighting in the Gaza Strip since October 2023.

Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House, Netanyahu said in a video statement in English.

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Hes shown it by sending us all the munitions that were being held up. This way he is giving Israel the tools we need to finish the job against Irans terror axis.

The Israeli leader made similar remarks last month, at a news conference with visiting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying Israel would finish the job against Iran with support from the United States.

Netanyahu said at the time Israel had dealt a mighty blow to Irans terror axis since the Gaza war began, referring to what Tehran describes as its axis of resistance  militants aligned against Israel and the United States, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Yemens Huthi rebels.

Trump, who returned to the White House in January, has reinstated a maximum pressure policy against Iran, mirroring his approach during his first term.

The US leader has also expressed his unwavering support for Israel, inviting Netanyahu as the first head of state to visit the White House last month.

On Saturday, Rubio said he had signed a declaration to expedite around $4 billion in military assistance to Israel, adding that a partial arms embargo imposed under former president Joe Biden had been reversed.
The pope, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, has lung disease and was admitted to Gemelli on Feb. 14 after a bout of bronchitis worsened and turned into a complex pneumonia in both lungs read more

A woman holds rosary beads as she prays for Pope Francis in front of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, where the Pontiff has been hospitalised since Feb.14, in Rome. AP

The Vatican reported that Pope Francis was in stable condition and did not require mechanical ventilation on Sunday, indicating that he had recovered from the potential complications of a respiratory crisis on Friday and that his overall breathing function was improving as he recovers from double pneumonia.

The 88-year-old pope continued to receive high flow supplemental oxygen following his coughing episode on Friday, which raised concerns about a new lung infection. In their late Sunday update, doctors noted that Francis was still in stable condition, but they also referred to the complexity of his overall condition and kept his prognosis at guarded, meaning he was still in danger.

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After receiving a visit in the morning from Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, and Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra, his chief of staff, Francis, who has been in the hospital since February 14, relaxed, prayed in his private chapel, and attended Mass for the remainder of the day. Francis meets with them at least once a week, even while he is at the Vatican, but it is unknown what they discussed.

In order to prevent even a brief public appearance from the hospital, he once more skipped his weekly midday benediction. Rather, the pope praised his physicians for their care and well-wishers for their prayers in a note he wrote from Gemelli hospital, which was issued by the Vatican. He also prayed for peace in Ukraine and abroad.

From here, war appears even more absurd, Francis said in the message, which he drafted in recent days. Francis said he was living his hospitalization as an experience of profound solidarity with people who are sick and suffering everywhere.

I feel in my heart the blessing that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord, Francis said in the text. At the same time, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share in body and spirit the condition of so many sick and suffering people.

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Signs point to a recovery

Many signs indicated he was improving, especially after a respiratory crisis on Friday afternoon that resulted in him inhaling vomit during a coughing fit and raising the possibility of new infection. Doctors aspirated the vomit and put him on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, a mask that pumps oxygen into the lungs.

He used the ventilation on Saturday, alternating it with just supplemental oxygen, and by Sunday no longer needed it.

Doctors also reported he had no fever or raised white blood cell levels, which would have indicated his body was fighting a new infection. The doctors had said they needed 24 to 48 hours after Fridays coughing episode to determine if there were any negative impacts on Francis overall condition. The passage of time and positive reports Sunday suggested he had overcome the episode successfully.

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The pope, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, has lung disease and was admitted to Gemelli on Feb. 14 after a bout of bronchitis worsened and turned into a complex pneumonia in both lungs.

Prayers continued to pour in

Francis hospitalization has come as the Vatican is marking its Holy Year, drawing pilgrims to Rome from all over. Many have added a pilgrimage destination to their itineraries so they can pray for Francis at the Gemelli hospital, which is around a 20-minute drive from the Vatican, longer in rush hour or on public transport.

The Rev. Riccardo Fumagalli had accompanied a group of young people from Milan to Rome for the Jubilee and would have attended Francis Angelus prayer in St. Peters Square on Sunday if he had delivered it as usual. Instead, they went to Gemelli.

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It seemed good to us to come here to express our closeness, especially of these teenagers, to be close to the Holy Father to pray for him, to pray for this moment of illness, he said.

Cancer patient Antonino Cacace was also arriving Sunday at Gemelli from Milan for his own treatment, saying he has to undergo surgery in the coming days and was counting on Francis prayers.

I am glad the pope is giving me help, he said. I am on the ninth (floor) and he is on the 10th (floor). I hope to meet him and see him, he said.
The list includes Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, the president and representative director of carmaker Isuzu Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara, senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). read more

Russia has permanently barred nine Japanese citizens from entering the country, as announced in a list released by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday.

The ministry stated that the ban is a direct response to Japans sanctions against Russia over the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Among those listed are Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, Isuzu President and Representative Director Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara, Senior Vice President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

This move follows a similar action in late July 2024, when Russia banned 13 other Japanese nationals, including the chairman of Toyota Motor. Tokyo has previously protested against such measures.

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Entry bans for foreigners are a common measure employed by Moscow in retaliation for sanctions or other opposition against Russias military campaign in Ukraine.

Similar lists exist for several countries, including the U.S. and Canada and include hundreds of people.

With inputs from agencies
Local media reported that a black SUV drove at high speed into a group of people, travelling from the centrally located Paradeplatz square towards the citys landmark water tower. News agency AFP reported that one arrest has been made in the case read more

Police officers secure a street in the city center of Mannheim, Germany, Monday March 3, 2025, following an incident in which one person was killed and others injured when a car rammed into a crowd, German police said. Source: AP

At least two people were killed and several injured after a car was ploughed into a crowd in Mannheim, Germany.

The Independent quoted an eyewitness as saying that the car knocked out several pedestrians in Planken, the main shopping street in the city.

Germanys outgoing chancellor Olaf Scholz termed the incident a senseless act of violence.

Once again we mourn with the relatives of the victims of a senseless act of violence and fear for the injured, Scholz said in a post on X, adding: We cannot accept this.

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News agency AFP reported that one arrest has been made in the case. The suspect was identified as a 40-year-old German national.

Police spokesperson Stefan Wilhelm in a statement said, We can confirm that one perpetrator was arrested. We cant yet give information on whether there were further perpetrators, he added.

The police later said they had no immediate reason to suspect a political motive behind the incident.

Police have advised locals to avoid the area and a probe has been launched.

There is currently a police operation in Mannheim city center, in the area around Wasserturm/Plankenkopf. Police and rescue services are on their way, the spokesperson for Mannheim police earlier stated.

Earlier, the police described the case as a life-threatening situation in the centre of the German city.

Local media reported that a black SUV drove at high speed into a group of people, travelling from the centrally located Paradeplatz square towards the citys landmark water tower.

Mannheim University Hospital says it has prepared everything for a possible mass casualty incident, German news agency dpa reported. The hospital has implemented its disaster and emergency plan to prepare for the care of the injured.

In response to the incident, German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser cancelled her participation in the carnival street parade in Cologne.

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The focus is now on saving lives, treating the injured and the initial investigations by the authorities in Mannheim, an interior ministry spokesperson told dpa.

The incident comes as large crowds have gathered in Germanys Rhineland to mark the carnival season and witness parades.

Notably, Mannheim was previously rocked in May 2024 due to a stabbing incident.

Germany has seen a rise in violent attacks over the past weeks, including a car ramming incident in December in the city of Magdeburg and another such incident in Munich in February.

Owing to the worrying trend, police across Germany are on high alert due to the carnival parades. The security was further beefed up following threats made by social media accounts linked to the Islamic State militant group targeting events in Cologne and Nuremberg.

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(With inputs from agencies)
The Kremlin said on Monday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy needed to be pressured into pursuing peace after a confrontation with US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office highlighted the challenges of resolving the conflict read more

The Kremlin said on Monday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy needed to be pressured into pursuing peace after a confrontation with US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office highlighted the challenges of resolving the conflict.

What happened at the White House on Friday, of course, demonstrated how difficult it will be to reach a settlement trajectory around Ukraine, Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.

The Kyiv regime and Zelenskyy do not want peace. They want the war to continue, he added.

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Peskov said that it is very important that someone forces Zelenskyy to change his position.

Someone has to make Zelenskyy want peace. If the Europeans can do it, they should be honoured and praised, Peskov was quoted as saying.

In 2022, President Vladimir Putin deployed tens of thousands of troops to Ukraine, igniting the most significant clash between Russia and the West since the height of the Cold War.

The conflict in eastern Ukraine started in 2014 when a pro-Russian president was ousted during Ukraines Maidan Revolution, leading to Russias annexation of Crimea and the rise of Russian-backed separatist forces battling Ukraines military.

According to Peskov, President Putin was aware of the unprecedented event that took place in the Oval Office, which he claimed highlighted Zelenskyys apparent lack of diplomatic skills, at the very least.

In addition, we see that the collective West has partially begun to lose its collectivity, and a fragmentation of the collective West has begun, Peskov said.

With inputs from agencies
Following a summit of European nations in support of Ukraine in London, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer outlined a four-step peace process for Ukraine read more

After the meeting of European leaders on Sunday, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer outlined a four-step peace process.

At a time when US President Donald Trump has gone from being critical of support to Ukraine to being completely hostile, European leaders gathered in London at the initiative of Starmer to demonstrate their support to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression and deliberate on how to support the nation and enforce peace in case of a ceasefire agreement.

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ALSO READ: Europes intervention in Trump-Zelenskyy spat is not about bypassing US in Ukraine talks

Starmers outline is in line with the British-French peacekeeping proposal in the works under which European troops would lead the efforts but would be supported in the rear by the United States. In line with such a middle ground approach, he said that while the United States must have an important role in any peace deal, Europe must do the bulk of the job.

Starmers 4-step outline for peace in Ukraine

Stressing upon the historic moment that Europe faces today, Starmer said the continent is at a crossroads in history today and the nations must act and not just talk in the face of Russian aggression.

The Russian war on Ukraine and the shadow war on the rest of the continent has plunged Europe in the worst security crisis in World War II. The popular perception is that if Russia gets its way in Ukraine, it is only a matter of time before it invades another country in due course  just like it attacked Ukraine first in 2014 and Georgia before that in 2008.

While Starmer did not go into the specifics, he outlined the four broad steps that Europe must take:

Firstly, Europe must keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing economic pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine.

Secondly, it must be ensured that Ukraine is at the negotiating table to ensure the nations say in decision regarding its sovereignty and security.

Thirdly, Europe must boost Ukraines defences in case of a peace deal to deter future aggression by Russia.

Fourthly, Europe must form a coalition of the willing to put boots on the ground to enforce any peace deal thats reached and provide security guarantees to Ukraine. Starmer said that the UK will take the lead in such a coalition.

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ALSO READ: Ukraine and beyond: 25 years on, Putin is still fighting Cold War  and hes finally winning

Starmer said, Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that cant mean we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now  with real urgency. The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground, and planes in the air together with others. Europe must do the heavy lifting, but, to support peace on our continent and to succeed, this effort must have strong US backing. Were working with the US on this point after my meeting with President Trump last week.

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In order to create the constitutional declaration that regulates the transitional phase in Syria, the president announced the formation of a committee of experts that included two women read more

This handout picture released by the Syrian Presidency shows Syria's interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (C) meeting with members of the committee to draft a constitutional declaration for the country's transition after the overthrow of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad, in Damascus. AFP

Syrias interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, announced on Sunday the creation of a commission to create a constitutional statement for the countrys transition following the removal of long-time dictator Bashar Assad.

After Assad was overthrown on December 8, ending 13 years of deadly conflict and more than 50 years of his familys tyrannical reign, the new government is concentrating on reconstructing Syria and its institutions.

In order to create the constitutional declaration that regulates the transitional phase in Syria, the president announced the formation of a committee of experts that included two women.

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In a statement, the seven-member group stated that it will submit its proposals to the president without giving a time frame.

In late January, Sharaa, leader of Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) which spearheaded Assads overthrow, was appointed interim president for an unspecified period.

Syrias new authorities have repealed the Assad-era constitution, and Sharaa has said rewriting it could take up to three years.

In late January, Sharaa promised a constitutional declaration to serve as a legal reference during the countrys transitional period.

Sundays announcement came based on the Syrian peoples aspirations in building their state based on the rule of law, and building on the outcomes of the Syrian national dialogue conference, said the presidency.

It also came with the aim of preparing the legal framework regulating the transitional phase, it added.

A national dialogue conference held this week in Damascus set out a path for the new Syria.

Members

The committee includes Abdul Hamid al-Awak, who holds a doctorate in constitutional law and lectures at a university in Turkey, and Yasser al-Huwaish, who was appointed this year as dean of Damascus universitys law faculty.

It also includes Bahia Mardini, a journalist with a doctorate in law who has been living in Britain  one of two women on the panel  and Ismail al-Khalfan, who holds a doctorate in law specialising in international law, and who this year was appointed law faculty dean at Aleppo university.

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Another committee member, Mohammed Reda Jalkhi, holds a doctorate in law specialising in international law from Idlib university, where he graduated in 2023.

The final statement of this weeks dialogue conference called for a constitutional committee to prepare a draft permanent constitution for the country that achieves balance between authorities, sets the values of justice, freedom and equality, and establishes a state of law an institutions.

Syrias conflict broke out in 2011 after Assad brutally repressed anti-government protests.

It spiralled into a complex conflict that has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions more domestically and abroad and battered the economy, infrastructure and industry.

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In December, a caretaker government was appointed to steer the country until March 1, when a new government was due to be formed.
Farage said the US president was incredibly old-fashioned about peoples clothing in the Oval Office  and suggested this may have fueled Trumps dramatic outburst, alongside his Vice-President JD Vance, over US support for Ukraine on Friday, according to a report read more

Nigel Farage, the leader of the hard-right Reform UK party, is certain Ukraine won't win the war. Reuters File

The Reform UK leader and Trump ally Nigel Farage on Monday said that Volodymyr Zelenskyys meeting with US President Donald Trump would have gone better if the Ukrainian president had worn a suit to the White House, triggering a backlash.

According to a Politico report, Farage said the US president was incredibly old-fashioned about peoples clothing in the Oval Office  and suggested this may have fueled Trumps dramatic outburst, alongside his Vice-President JD Vance, over US support for Ukraine Friday.

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If I turned up at the White House, Id make sure I was wearing a suit, my shoes were cleaned, Politico report quoted Farage as saying to LBC.

He said the Ukrainian president had been unwise to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredibly old-fashioned about this stuff.

Farage, a strong supporter of the US President who attended his inauguration in January, said that wanting people to dress appropriately is part of Trumps personality.

Lots of times Trump said yeah, good shoes, great shoes, Farage added.

If youre going in with a positive mindset, maybe Zelenskyy should have thought about that.

Since Russias full-scale invasion in 2022, Zelenskyy has consistently worn military-style clothing to show solidarity with Ukrainian troops on the frontline and to remind the world that his country is under attack.

During a meeting last week, he donned a military-style black sweatshirt featuring the Ukrainian trident.

When pressed by Brian Glenn, chief White House correspondent for the conservative network Real Americas Voice, about why he wasnt wearing a suit in the Oval Office, Zelenskyy responded that he would dress formally after the war is over.

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But Farage said of Zelenskyys military uniform, There are times to wear it. There are times not to.

The Reform UK leader, who has adopted a more skeptical stance on British support for Ukraine, criticised Zelenskyy for having overplayed his hand and being very unwise in telling the US what would happen without their support.

When asked if he would treat a guest the way Trump treated Zelenskyy, he replied, I wouldnt expect the guest to be rude to me in my own house. Absolutely not. I would expect a guest to treat me with respect.

However, he clarified his stance on the two US leaders, Im not defending what they did.

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Britains opposition Tories, vying with Farage for votes on the right, quickly seized on his comments.

Nigel Farage is completely wrong," Politico quoted Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel as saying, labeling his language both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive.

At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics, she added.

Liberal Democrat Leader Ed Davey also condemned Farages remarks, asserting that the Reform UK leader was once again showing his true colors as Trumps own spokesman here in Britain.

Zelenskyy showed courage and integrity in that room  in stark contrast to Farages cowardly approach of licking Trumps boots, Politico quoted Davey as saying.

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With inputs from agencies
After humiliating Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and throwing him out of the White House last week, US President Donald Trump will hold a meeting today with his top officials to decide if and how Ukraine needs to be punished read more

US President Donald Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as US Vice President JD Vance reacts at the White House in Washington, DC, US, February 28, 2025. File Image/Reuters

US President Donald Trump will hold a meeting with his top officials on Monday to decide whether to punish Ukraine after Fridays scenes at White House.

Last week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was at the White House to sign the minerals deal and hold talks with Trump. However, even before actual talks could start, Vice President JD Vance pounced on Zelenskyy during joint interaction with the press and berated him for being ungrateful and disrespectful. Trump joined in the thrashing and accused him of gambling with World War III. He said Ukraine would fall apart if the United States were to withdraw support.

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After Trump cancelled the minerals deals signing and talks, he kicked out Zelenskyy from White House.

ALSO READ: Zelenskyy not ready for peace: Trump blasts Ukraine president following White House clash

After the humiliating visit to Washington DC, Zelenskyy arrived to a heros welcome in London where Europes leader rallied around him in a show of support and a message to Trump that the continent would stand with Ukraine come what may. At the same time, European leaders stressed that even though they are willing to do the heavy lifting regarding the aid and enforcement of any ceasefire, such efforts need to be supported by the United States.

Irrespective of the united stand of Europe, Trump appears to not be in any mood to forgive the purported disrespect at the hand of Zelenskyy.

ALSO READ: Starmer outlines 4-step peace process for Ukraine as Trump pushes Europe to take lead

Trump will meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth among other top national security aides on Monday to decide how to respond to Zelenskyys purported disrespect, according to The New York Times.

There are a range of options on the table for Trump to choose from, including suspending or cancelling US military aid in part or in full to Ukraine, as a punishment for Zelenskyys purported disrespect, as per The Times.

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Separately, a Trump administration official told NBC News that the ball remains in Zelenskyys court and he needs to come to the table and make things right.

Trumps allies, including Senator Lindsey Graham and House Speaker Mike Johnson have called for Zelenskyys resignation.

While those in Trumps orbit have hailed the humiliation of Zelenskyy as a symbol of American patriotism, critics have said that it was an ambush and the argument was a staged pretext to cut aid to Ukraine. In recent weeks, Trump has, after all, gone from being critical of support to Ukraine to being completely hostile. He and his allies have been parroting Russias talking points for weeks: that Ukraine not Russia started the war, that Nato was responsible for the war, and that Zelenskyy was an illegitimate leader.

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Trump and his allies have also lied about the extent of US aid to Ukraine. While Trump has falsely said the United States provided $350 billion in assistance to Ukraine, the actual amount was around $124 billion during January 2022 and December 2024.
This comes after the two leaders had an explosive meeting Friday (February 28) at the White House, following which Zelenskyy was abruptly asked to leave and a joint presser was also cancelled read more

US President Donald Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House in Washington, DC on February 28, 2025. (Source: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump Monday (March 3) warned that his administration wont put up with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyys stance on the war with Russia much longer.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump reiterated Zelenskyy doesnt want to end the war as long as he enjoys backing from Washington DC.

Along with his post, Trump attached the screenshot of a news report which quoted Zelenskyy as saying, end of war with Russia is very, very far away.

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Trump wrote, This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer."

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US," Trump wrote further.

This comes after the two leaders had an explosive meeting Friday (February 28) at the White House, following which Zelenskyy was abruptly asked to leave and a joint presser was also cancelled.

Trump allies press Zelenskyy to change stance

Earlier on Sunday (March 2), key allies of President Trump pressed Zelenskyy to either change his stance on the war or simply stand down.

Trumps national security advisor, Mike Waltz, even asserted that Zelenskyy was not willing to negotiate a peace deal, making it clear that such a proposal could include ceding territories to Russia permanently.

We need a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians and end this war. He added, If it becomes apparent that President Zelenskyys either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in his country, then I think we have a real issue on our hands.

South Carolina Senator and Republican leader Lindsey Graham also echoed same concerns, arguing it was difficult for Zelenskyy to continue working with the US following the White House clash.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also called on Zelenskyy to come back to the table with gratitude or just step aside.

Something has to change. Either he needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country to do that, he said, referring to the Ukrainian leader.

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(With inputs from agencies)
Zelenskyy had travelled to Washington for a full White House visit on Friday to sign a US-Ukrainian deal for the joint exploitation of Ukraines vast mineral resources, as part of a post-war recovery in a US-brokered peace deal read more

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told UK media on Sunday that his country is prepared to negotiate a minerals agreement with the United States.

He said, The agreement thats on the table will be signed if the parties are ready, following a historic summit in London, during a late-night meeting with some UK reporters.

The agreement, which was expected to help resolve the crisis in Ukraine, fell through on Friday following a televised dispute with US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office.

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It is our policy to continue what happened in the past, were constructive, Zelenskyy stated, according to a BBC statement.

If we agreed to sign the minerals deal, were ready to sign it.

Zelenskyy had travelled to Washington for a full White House visit on Friday to sign a US-Ukrainian deal for the joint exploitation of Ukraines vast mineral resources, as part of a post-war recovery in a US-brokered peace deal.

But in their Oval Office meeting, Trump berated Zelenskyy, telling him to be more thankful for US support in the three-year war and that without US assistance Ukraine would have been conquered by Russia.

Youre either going to make a deal or were out, Trump added. And if were out, youll fight it out and I dont think its going to be pretty.

The US leader had previously said the proposed minerals deal would be very fair.

The proposal was to give Washington financial benefits for helping Ukraine in a truce, even if Trump has repeatedly refused to commit any US military force as a back-up to European troops who might act as peacekeepers.

After the heated exchange, Zelenskyy drove off in his motorcade shortly after having been asked to leave, without holding a planned joint press conference. The resources deal was left unsigned, the White House said.

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Ukraines allies rallied around Zelenskyy on Sunday at a summit hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer who said many European leaders had pledged to spend more on security and assemble a coalition to defend any truce.

French President Emmanuel Macron, flying back from the London summit, said in a newspaper interview that France and Britain wanted to propose a partial one-month truce with Russia.
People attend premiere of Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" in Singapore

Xinhua) 10:23, March 03, 2025

People attend the premiere of the Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" at The Projector movie theater in Singapore, on March 2, 2025. The Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" will be officially released in Singapore on March 6. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

Children pose for photos in front of a poster during the premiere of the Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" at The Projector movie theater in Singapore, on March 2, 2025. The Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" will be officially released in Singapore on March 6. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

An audience attends the premiere of the Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" at The Projector movie theater in Singapore, on March 2, 2025. The Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" will be officially released in Singapore on March 6. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

People attend the premiere of the Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" at The Projector movie theater in Singapore, on March 2, 2025. The Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" will be officially released in Singapore on March 6. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

People attend the premiere of the Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" at The Projector movie theater in Singapore, on March 2, 2025. The Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" will be officially released in Singapore on March 6. (Xinhua/Then Chih Wey)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
As he prepares for his joint address to Congress on Tuesday night, Trump faces significant challenges  partially self-triggered that could put him and the Republican Party in a difficult position read more

President Donald Trump speaks at the National Prayer Breakfast at the Capitol in Washington, on Feb. 6, 2025. AP File

US President Donald Trump will address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, presenting his vision for the country and the world, which has been shaped by his America First agenda and a series of significant executive actions.

The speech, set for 9 pm (2 am GMT Wednesday) at the US Capitol, comes six weeks after his inauguration and four years after his supporters stormed the building in the wake of his 2020 election defeat.

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During his address, Trump is expected to emphasise the executive orders he has issued during his first 43 days in office and outline his agenda for the remaining 1,419 days of his presidency.

As he prepares for the Tuesday night speech, he confronts three significant challenges: the looming threat of a government shutdown, increasing tensions surrounding tariff policies, and a growing rift with European allies over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine

Government shutdown looms

With just 11 days remaining until government funding expires, the threat of a government shutdown is becoming increasingly real.

Shifting his stance, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson is now advocating for a clean continuing resolution (CR) to maintain government operations through September 30, rather than pursuing aggressive budget cuts proposed by Elon Musks Doge team.

On Sunday, Johnson said that he wants to pass a clean stopgap funding measure to keep federal agencies operating at current spending levels through September and leave proposed cuts for legislation for the next fiscal year.

In a series of television appearances, Johnson clarified that the cuts proposed by billionaire Elon Musks so-called Department of Government Efficiency  strongly opposed by Democrats  would not be included in a continuing resolution (CR) aimed at preventing a partial government shutdown when current funding runs out on March 14.

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Were looking to pass a clean CR to freeze funding at current levels to make sure that the government can stay open, Reuters quoted Johnson as saying to NBCs Meet the Press.

We are working hard to do our responsibility to keep the government open. Democrats have to help negotiate this, he added.

But his comments did not appear to move Congress closer to a deal on government funding, with both Democrats and Republicans pushing back.

There has been zero outreach from the Trump administration, and House Republicans have walked away from the negotiating table, Reuters quoted the House of Representatives Democratic leader, Hakeem Jeffries, as saying in a statement on Sunday.

Republicans need Democratic support in the Senate, where their 53-47 majority falls short of the 60-vote margin needed to pass most legislation. In the House, Republicans need only a simple majority to pass a stopgap measure and hold a 218-215 advantage over Democrats.

It was not clear, however, if Republicans can muster the necessary support.

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I am a NO on the CR. Congress needs to do its job and pass a conservative budget! CRs are code for Continued Rubberstamp of fraud, waste, and abuse, Republican Representative Tony Gonzales wrote on X.

House Republican Don Bacon also voiced opposition, posting, A continuing resolution is bad for our military and weakens our national security. A CR means new weapons programs cannot get started. A year-long CR means we are not serious about building a military that will deter China, Russia and Iran.

On Friday, top Democratic appropriators in the Senate and the House of Representatives said Republicans had raised the risk of a government shutdown by insisting on including cuts made by President Donald Trump administration in legislation for fiscal year 2025, which ends on September 30.

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But Johnson said those cuts would be reserved for legislation to fund the government in fiscal year 2026, which begins on October 1.

We will actually be able to change the way this is done and incorporate all the extraordinary savings that DOGE is uncovering through fraud, waste and abuse, the other revenues that President Trump is bringing about because of his policies, Johnson told the Fox News programme Sunday Morning Futures.

Jeffries took aim at Republican plans to cut spending for social programmes such as Medicare to pay for Trumps border and tax-cut agenda. Democrats unanimously opposed a budget blueprint for advancing the Trump agenda that House Republicans barely managed to pass last week.

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There will be no support for partisan legislation that fails to protect the quality of life of the American people, Jeffries was quoted as saying.

Widening rift with European allies

In addition to domestic pressures, Trump faces a growing divide with European allies, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

A recent confrontation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has highlighted this discord, raising concerns about the stability of transatlantic relations.

As Zelenskyy seeks increased support for Ukraine, Trumps ambiguous stance on US involvement has frustrated many European leaders, potentially jeopardising future cooperation.

On Monday, Zelenskyy said that he would collaborate with European leaders to establish terms for a potential peace deal to present to the US.

This comes after 18 allied countries gathered in London for a summit, where they pledged increased spending on security and the formation of a coalition to support any truce in Ukraine.

The weekend talks took place during a critical time for Ukraine, which has been battered by war and faces uncertain support from the US amid Russias ongoing three-year invasion.

Just days prior, Trump berated Zelenskyy publicly at the White House, raising concerns that he might push Kyiv into a peace agreement favouring Russian President Vladimir Putin.

However, European leaders rallied in support of Ukraine, with Zelenskyy saying that the summit cemented their commitment to pursuing peace.

We need peace, not endless war, AFP quoted Zelenskyy as saying on Telegram.

In the near future, all of us in Europe will shape our common positions - the lines we must achieve and the lines we cannot compromise on, he added. These positions will be presented to our partners in the United States.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also said that Britain, France, and other allies would collaborate with Ukraine to develop a plan to halt the fighting, which they would then present to Washington.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron, returning from the summit, told Le Figaro that France and Britain aimed to propose a one-month partial truce in the air, at sea, and regarding energy infrastructure.

Both Starmer and Macron expressed their willingness to deploy British and French troops to Ukraine to help uphold any truce.

Trump tariffs coming

Adding to the complexity of his situation, Trump is likely to announce a new round of tariffs that could ignite a trade war.

US tariffs on Canada and Mexico will go into effect on Tuesday (March 4), as originally planned.

While earlier reports suggested Trump plans to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, alongside a 10% tariff on goods from China, Trump is yet to determine whether to stick with the original 25% level.

There are going to be tariffs on Tuesday on Mexico and Canada. Exactly what they are, were going to leave that for the president and his team to negotiate, Fox News quoted Americas commerce secretary Howard Lutnick as saying.

That is a fluid situation, Lutnick added.

While these measures may resonate with his political base, business leaders and economists warn of significant repercussions, including retaliatory actions from trading partners that could destabilise global markets.

The 30-day pause on duties for Canada and Mexico, which President Trump tied to illegal border crossings and the flow of fentanyl into the US, is set to expire on March 4.

Lutnick said Canada and Mexico have done a reasonable job securing their borders with the US, though the deadly drug fentanyl continues to flow into the country.

He also mentioned that President Trump is expected to raise tariffs on China on Tuesday unless the country ends fentanyl trafficking into the US.

The American commerce secretarys remarks were the first indication from the Trump administration that it may not impose the full threatened 25% tariffs on all goods from Mexico and non-energy imports from Canada.

With inputs from agencies
A United Airlines flight made an emergency landing in Waco, Texas, on Sunday evening after encountering severe turbulence that injured five passengers, according to a report, citing officials read more

A United Airlines flight made an emergency landing in Waco, Texas, on Sunday evening after encountering severe turbulence that injured five passengers, according to a report, citing officials.

According to a NBC News report, citing FlightAware data, SkyWest flight 5690, which was operating as United Express, a United Airlines regional flight service network, took off from Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri at 4:48 pm CT and was headed to George Bush Intercontinental Airport

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The Bombardier CRJ-200 faced turbulence during its journey and was forced to land at Waco Regional Airport, reported NBC News, citing confirmation by SkyWest Airlines in a statement.

SkyWest did not specify the location where the turbulence took place.

Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital, NBC News quoted the statement as saying.

SkyWest and United are making sure all customers get the care they need and dispatched another aircraft to fly the customers from Waco to Houston, the statement added.

Five passengers suffered minor injuries, while the flight carried a total of 29 passengers and three crew members.

The Waco Fire Department responded with five units and 13 personnel, according to the report, citing Acting Fire Chief Robby Bergerson.

According to FlightAware.com, the flight departed from Waco to Houston at 1:17 am CT on Monday.

This incident adds to a string of recent aviation news.

On Saturday, a FedEx cargo plane from Newark to Indianapolis made an emergency landing after striking a bird during takeoff.

Last week, a Delta Air Lines flight returned to Atlanta due to reports of possible smoke in the cabin.

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Moreover, an American Airlines flight from New York to New Delhi was diverted to Rome after a bomb threat was reported.

With inputs from agencies
The disastrous Oval Office meeting on Friday that exploded in acrimony when Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelenskyy of refusing to negotiate peace and berated him for being ingrateful for U.S. support so far has cast doubts over the future of U.S.-Ukrainian relations. read more

A public clash between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has provided an unexpected advantage for the Kremlin, boosting Moscows hopes for a potential halt in US aid to Kyiv as Russian forces continue to advance in Ukraine.

The contentious Oval Office meeting on Friday which turned hostile when Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelenskyy of refusing to pursue peace negotiations and criticised him for being ungrateful for US support, has raised uncertainties about the future of US-Ukraine relations.

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The Kremlin swiftly seized on the incident, framing it as evidence of Zelenskyys unwillingness to negotiate an end to the three-year conflict. Russian officials described the exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy as unprecedented, further fuelling Moscows narrative.

What happened in the White House on Friday certainly showed how difficult it will be to get on the path to a Ukrainian settlement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. The Kyiv regime and Zelenskyy do not want peace, they want the war to continue.

He claimed that the White House blowup has proven President Vladimir Putins statements about Kyivs refusal to hold peace talks. Putin, who sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, has declared his openness for peace but demanded that Ukraine abandon its bid to join NATO and withdraw its troops from the four regions that Russia illegally annexed in 2022 but never fully captured.

President Putin was right when he said that despite the openness of the Russian side to the negotiation process, these good intentions run into the unwillingness of the Kyiv regime to maintain such dynamics, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. We saw this to the full extent in Washington. In this situation, of course, Washingtons efforts and Moscows readiness alone will clearly not be enough, a crucial element is missing.

Peskov said that Putin watched the unprecedented White House encounter and took what happened into account.

As a minimum, Zelenskyy has shown an utter lack of diplomatic skills, Peskov told reporters.

Commenting on the Ukrainian leaders refusal to recognise any loss of territory, Peskov said it reflected his reluctance to recognize the battlefield situation. You have to be blind not to see it, he declared.

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Other Russian officials were even less diplomatic.

Dmitry Medvedev, a deputy head of Russias Security Council chaired by Putin, relished what he called a fierce scolding and a slap in the face for Zelenskyy and voiced hope for a quick end to U.S. military aid for Ukraine.

Pro-Kremlin media and commentators derided Zelenskyys attire and his negotiating style and described the meeting as a disaster for Ukraine.

Trump wiped his feet on Zelenskyy and Ukraine like a doormat, commented hardline ideologue Alexander Dugin. Zelenskyy was thrown out of the White House like a garbage alley cat, gloated pro-Kremlin military analyst Igor Korotchenko.

Medvedev, a former liberal-leaning Russian president who has become one of the most hawkish Kremlin officials, denounced the London summit as the anti-Trump Russophobic coven, declaring that they want to continue the war till the last Ukrainian!

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assailed Kyivs European allies for defying Trumps push for peace and described Europe as a birthplace of conflict. During the past 500 years, all tragedies of the world originated in Europe or were linked to European politics, he said in televised comments.

Lavrov, who has previously warned that Moscow wouldnt accept peacekeepers from any NATO members in case of a potential peace deal, has dismissed French and British proposals to deploy such a force as impudent. This plan for the deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine is the continuation of efforts to incite the Kyiv regime to wage a war against us, he said.

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Quite an unprecedented event, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said of the meeting in comments to journalists, adding that Zelensky demonstrated a complete lack of diplomatic abilities. To put it mildly.

With inputs from agencies
Trumps attacks on Zelenskyy have upended US support for Ukraine and Washingtons allies more broadly and stoked concern about the United States pivoting to Russia. read more

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday that Ukraine must pursue substantive diplomacy to swiftly end the three-year war with Russia, expressing hope for continued US support in achieving peace.

It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible, Zelenskiy wrote on X.

We are working together with America and our European partners and very much hope for U.S. support on the path to peace. Peace is needed as soon as possible.

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We continue our work with partners. We have already had talks and other steps to come soon.



It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible.



We need real peace and Ukrainians want it most because the war ruins our  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

US President Donald Trump warned Monday he would not put up much longer with Volodymyr Zelenskys stance on the war with Russia, as the Ukrainian leader countered he wanted to end it as soon as possible.

In a new sign of frayed ties following their White House blow-up last week, Trump called a comment by Zelensky saying an agreement to end the war remained distant the worst statement that could have been made by him.

America will not put up with it for much longer, Trump said on social media.

The comment came after the Ukrainian president accused Russia of not being serious about peace and warned that tough security guarantees were the only way to end the more than three-year conflict.

With inputs from agencies
OnePlus today announced the return of the Red Rush Days Sale, starting from March 4th, 2025. The company expressed their gratitude towards the OnePlus community for their unwavering support, embodying the Never Settle mindset.

During this period, customers in India can enjoy special discounts, bank offers, and EMI schemes on popular OnePlus products, including the new OnePlus 13 series and OnePlus Nord CE4, as well as other flagship, Nord, and IoT products.

Red Rush Days Sale Offers March 2025

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Get a Rs. 5,000 instant bank discount on the OnePlus 13.

Avail a Rs. 3,000 instant bank discount on select bank cards for the OnePlus 13R (16GB + 512 GB variant) and enjoy a temporary price drop of Rs. 2,000.

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Exchange bonus: Up to Rs. 7,000 on the OnePlus 13 and Rs. 4,000 on the OnePlus 13R.

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Rs. 4,000 instant bank discount and a temporary price drop of up to Rs. 8,000 on the OnePlus 12 with select banks.

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Temporary price discount of up to Rs. 1,000 on the OnePlus Nord 4.

Rs. 4,000 instant bank discount on select bank cards.

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Temporary price discount of Rs. 1,000 on the OnePlus Nord CE4 with up to 6 months no-cost EMI on Bajaj Finserv, HDBFS, and other credit cards.

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Rs. 2,000 instant bank discount with up to 9 months no-cost EMI options on select bank cards.

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For the OnePlus Pad Go, Rs. 2,000 instant bank discount, Rs. 1,000 flat discount, and up to 6 months no-cost EMI options on select bank cards.

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Exciting discounts on OnePlus Nord Buds 3 Pro, OnePlus Nord Buds 2r, OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC, OnePlus Nord Buds 3, and OnePlus Buds 3.

Availability

The sale begins on March 4th, 2025 and ends on March 9th, 2025. It will be available across various platforms: OnePlus.in, the OnePlus Store App, OnePlus Experience Stores, Amazon.in, and retail partners such as Reliance Digital, Croma, Vijay Sales, and Bajaj Electronics.
Melanoma is responsible for 60 percent of all malignant skin growths, and the incidence of this kind of cancer has increased dramatically in recent years. It is often detected too late, as diagnostic methods that allow for early detection are laborious and costly. In a full-body skin scan, dermatologists study each pigmented skin lesion in isolation, looking for typical signs of melanoma  a time-consuming and error-prone kind of health check. The Intelligent Total Body Scanner for Early Detection of Melanoma (iToBoS) EU project has brought together 20 project partners (see list below) with the aim of accelerating and improving the existing examination method with an AI-based full-body scanner. The project has multiple goals: to increase the automated preliminary medical history throughput, optimize early detection of cancers, ease the burden on healthcare professionals, lower the risk to patients and reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies performed. The iToBoS scanner developed by project partner Bosch automatically scans the entire body in just six minutes, using a cognitive AI assistant that relies on AI models and XAI methods from Fraunhofer HHI, among other features. Medical professionals see a risk assessment for each individual mole. The scanner is the centerpiece of the cloud-based AI diagnostic platform also developed in the project, which combines health data from various sources, such as patient files, genomic data and in vivo imaging. The EU is providing 12.1 million euros in funding for the project.

Fast, reliable and highly personalized melanoma diagnosis

The scanners high-resolution cameras are equipped with liquid lenses that mimic the structure of the human eye. Based on two immiscible liquids with different refractive indices, they produce images of unprecedented quality. For highly personalized diagnosis, machine learning is used to integrate the scans together with all available patient data (demographics and information on UV damage, risk group and other factors) into the AI diagnostic platform with the cognitive AI assistant tool.

The high speed at which the scanner operates makes it possible to examine many patients in just a short time, but that is not all. The scans can also be repeated often over a longer period, so they can be compared for effective monitoring of developments in moles and possible skin changes that can be indicative of skin cancer. Multiple specialized AI algorithms combined in the AI assistant are responsible for identifying and tracking moles over time.

XAI methods to verify the methods developed and the data

The algorithms have to use absolutely reliable and verifiable problem-solving strategies in sensitive areas of application such as medical diagnostics. However, in the past it hasnt been entirely clear how AI systems make decisions. With their XAI methods used in the project, which include the patented Layer-Wise Relevance Propagation (LRP), Concept Relevance Propagation (CRP) and Prototypical Concept-Based Explanations (PCX) methods, researchers from Fraunhofer HHI are making the AI forecasts explainable, thereby identifying uncertain problem-solving strategies. These methods identify and quantify a broad spectrum of learned decision-making behaviors and identify undesirable decisions even in enormous datasets, prevent the models from making mistakes and ensure that the AI systems used are reliable and safe. In the past, AI systems were treated as black boxes. The systems were trusted to do the right things, but unfortunately, that isnt always the case. With our XAI methods, weve succeeded in rendering the solution-finding process of AI systems transparent and overcoming that black box aspect, says Prof. Wojciech Samek, head of the Artificial Intelligence department at Fraunhofer HHI. Thanks to our explainable AI methods, we dont just identify anomalous moles but actually explain at the same time what makes them different. Were using LRP and CRP to visualize and interpret neural networks and other machine learning models and measure the influence of every input variable in the overall prediction, adds Dr. Sebastian Lapuschkin, head of the Explainable Artificial Intelligence research group. Being able to cross-link these huge volumes of data offers the opportunity to learn more about skin cancer and peoples potential for developing it.

The researchers at Fraunhofer HHI can also use their Reveal to Revise (R2R) method, which was developed as part of the project, to train potential anomalous and erroneous behaviors out of the AI by using the information from their XAI to annotate the data more effectively with the aim of making the entire system more robust and reliable. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop a holistic AI model that uses multimodal datasets to examine patients from a wide variety of perspectives. The meta datasets collected in Queensland, Australia, and in Barcelona as part of the project will also help with this, as they extend the pool of data to other populations from around the world. In the long term, the full-body scanner could also be used to identify other skin diseases such as neurodermatitis.

Project partners:

BARCO NV, Canfield Scientific, Coronis Computing SL, Fraunhofer HHI, Fundacio Clinic per a la Recerca Biomedica, IBM Israel - Science and Technology Ltd., Institute for Computer Science and Control (SZTAKI), Isahit, Leibniz University Hannover, Melanoma Patient Network Europe, National Technical University of Athens, Optotune AG, RICOH Spain IT Services SLU, Robert Bosch Espana SA, Torus Actions SAS, Trilateral Research Limited, University of Trieste, University of Queensland, University of Girona (coordinator), V7 Ltd.
Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024.
Its unfortunate, but understandable. It seems the staff has done its best to ameliorate the damage and is taking proper precautions to prevent it from happening again.

I would hope that government staff would be wise to potential email and internet scams, especially considering their fiduciary responsibilities to taxpayers. This is one of a few instances of large payouts and expenditures in recent years.

Im more concerned about the large amount of money being used to image historic documents. Is this necessary?

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Egypt reaffirms 'unwavering support' for Palestinian cause ahead of emergency Arab Summit

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 March 2025 7:18 PM

Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has reaffirmed his country's unwavering support for the Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian nation, stressing that Cairo is ready to assist with the reconstruction of Gaza.

Madbouly made the remarks during a meeting with his Palestinian counterpart, Mohammad Mustafa, in the capital Cairo on Saturday, where the two sides discussed key aspects of an early recovery and reconstruction plan for Gaza, which will be presented at the upcoming emergency Arab Summit scheduled for March 4.

During the meeting, Madbouly reasserted Egypt's unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights, particularly the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East al-Quds as its capital.

He also underscored Egypt's commitment to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing that Cairo is making every possible effort to advance the Gaza ceasefire agreement in all its phases and to achieve the reconstruction of Gaza.

Madbouly further noted that in line with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's directives, "the Egyptian government has prepared a comprehensive plan for early recovery and the reconstruction of Gaza while ensuring that Palestinian citizens remain in the Strip during the rebuilding process."

Mustafa, for his part, expressed his deep appreciation for Egypt's efforts in supporting the Palestinian people, while acknowledging the contributions of various Egyptian institutions in aiding Palestine.

He also emphasized that the joint reconstruction plan with Egypt ensures that Gaza's people will not be displaced, affirming that the plan is ready for implementation.

Mustafa also reiterated the necessity of ending the Israeli occupation and achieving Palestinian statehood.

President Sisi's government has developed a detailed plan for Gaza spanning over ten years and primarily focuses on rebuilding infrastructure, housing, and residential sectors.

The plan aims to craft a unified Arab stance on the Palestinian issue, opposing controversial US President Donald Trump's proposals for the displacement of Gazans.

During the early days of his administration, Trump suggested that the people of Gaza either temporarily or permanently relocate out of the strip, including to Egypt and Jordan.

On February 4, Trump proposed that the US could take over Gaza and turn it into the "Riviera" of West Asia after clearing the Palestinians out, and resettling them elsewhere.

Trump's remarks sparked widespread condemnations, including from Palestine, the UN and the Arab world, as a potentially fatal blow to the so-called two-state solution.

Trump's provocative proposal came after the Israeli regime failed to realize its objectives in the war on the coastal strip for over 15 months, during which the regime killed at least 48,348 Palestinians, mostly women and children.

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Israeli bulldozers demolish homes in West Bank; Hamas urges UN to stop 'war crimes'

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 March 2025 6:07 PM

Hamas says Israel has once again committed war crimes by the demolition of homes of Palestinians on the first day of the holy month of Ramadan in the occupied West Bank's Nur Shams refugee camp.

Palestinian officials said Saturday that several military bulldozers stormed the al-Manshiya neighborhood, "destroying roads and demolishing parts of residential buildings."

According to Nihad Al-Shawish, head of the Nour Shams camp's Popular Committee, Israeli forces forced residents in the vicinity of the camp to evacuate, threatening them that the military was preparing for "large-scale detonations" in the area.

"The army has ordered all residents of the camp to leave," Shawish told Turkish news agency, Anadolu.

Hamas said in a statement that the recent violence committed by the military forces affirms "Israel's systematic intention to displace our people" from the camps in the northern West Bank.

The Palestinian resistance group urged the United Nations "to take immediate action to stop the occupation's horrific and ongoing violations of international laws."

"We warn of the consequences of continued international silence on the crimes of the fascist occupation government against our people."

Israel's offensive on Nour Shams has now entered its 21st day, while the regime's forces have been targeting northern West Bank cities, particularly Jenin and Tulkarem, for over a month.

According to Palestinian health officials, at least 64 people have so far been killed and thousands of others displaced.

An international human rights organization says the military has killed at least 16 children in the West Bank since the beginning of 2025.

Ayed Abu Eqtaish, the accountability program director of the Defense for Children International, criticized the international community for its failure to "hold Israeli soldiers accountable for their violations against Palestinians."

He said that there's "a growing ease with which Israeli soldiers open fire on Palestinian children, leading to an increase in the number of those killed or injured."

A UN special rapporteur has previously warned that if the Israeli regime is not forced to stop, its genocide of Palestinians will not be confined to Gaza.

Israel's 15 months of brutal campaign of death and destruction and ethnic cleansing, which claimed the lives of more than 48,000 people in Gaza, came to an end by a ceasefire deal on January 19.

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Israel/Palestine: Statement by the Spokesperson on the ceasefire in Gaza

European External Action Service (EEAS)

02.03.2025

EEAS Press Team

The EU condemns the refusal of Hamas to accept the extension of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Israel's subsequent decision to block the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza could potentially result in humanitarian consequences.

The EU calls for a rapid resumption of negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire, and expresses its strong support to the mediators.

A permanent ceasefire would contribute to the release of all remaining Israeli hostages while ensuring the necessary conditions for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza to begin. All parties have a political responsibility to make this a reality.

The EU reiterates its calls for full, rapid, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid at scale for Palestinians in need and for allowing and facilitating humanitarian workers and international organisations to operate effectively and safely inside Gaza.

The EU civilian Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EUBAM Rafah) is ready to continue its work if requested by the parties. Thanks to its presence, nearly 3,000 people have so far crossed the border into Egypt since 1 February.

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Saudi Arabia, Egypt condemn Israel for blocking aid entry into Gaza

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

Egypt and Saudi Arabia have condemned Israel for cutting off the entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip as the first phase of a ceasefire deal with Hamas expired.

The foreign ministries of Saudi Arabia and Egypt issued separate statements on Sunday after Israel stopped humanitarian aid into the besieged territory to pressure Hamas to accept a proposal made by the United States to extend the ceasefire agreement's first phase that expired a day earlier.

Egypt, which alongside the U.S. and Qatar has mediated the Gaza ceasefire deal, said that the Israeli measure to block aid was a clear violation of the agreement and international humanitarian law, according to Palestine's Sama news agency.

The Egyptian Foreign Ministry also said that Israel's use of starvation policy against Palestinian civilians and putting pressure on them through imposing a blockade are unjustified and unacceptable.

The ministry called on the international community to fulfill its responsibility to stop illegal and inhumane measures against civilian lives, and to condemn any attempt aimed at misusing humanitarian conditions for political purposes.

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also condemned Israel's halt of humanitarian aid into Gaza to use it as a tool for extortion and collective punishment.

This action, the ministry said, is a blatant violation of international law and a direct infringement of the rules of international humanitarian law, according to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Riyadh renewed calls on the international community to stop these actions, activate international accountability mechanisms, and ensure that Palestinians in Gaza have sustainable access to aid.

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605 Palestinians killed or injured in Gaza since ceasefire began

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

At least 605 Palestinians have been killed or injured in Israeli attacks across the besieged enclave since a fragile ceasefire took effect on January 19, according to the Gaza Media Office.

In a statement on Sunday, the office said four more Palestinians, including one woman, were killed in a fresh wave of Israeli strikes on Gaza and six others were injured.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) confirmed that their emergency teams responded to multiple incidents across Gaza on Sunday.

In Beit Hanoun, in northern Gaza, two Palestinians were killed, while a Palestinian woman was killed east of Khan Younis in the south, where two Palestinians were also wounded in Israeli strikes.

Another fatality, along with two injuries, was reported in central Rafah after Israeli forces opened fire on civilians.

The Israeli regime has violated the ceasefire agreement more than 400 times since it began, Gaza officials said.

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Hamas says Israel 'bears responsibility' for fate of its prisoners

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

Hamas has warned that Israel "bears responsibility" for the fate of Israeli prisoners still held in the Gaza Strip after the regime suspended the entry of humanitarian aid.

"The occupation [Israel] bears responsibility for the consequences of its decision on the population of the Gaza Strip and for the fate of its prisoners," Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said in a statement on Sunday.

The first phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which took effect on January 19, expired on Saturday. Israel has refused to enter negotiations on the second stage, under which the remaining 59 Israeli prisoners would be released and a permanent truce would be established.

Israeli authorities have instead called for an extension of the first phase of the ceasefire, a request Hamas has rejected.

The Israeli military resumed its attacks on Gaza on Sunday, killing at least four Palestinians across the enclave, according to medical sources. Israel says all its prisoners must be returned for the fighting to stop.

In a statement, Israel warned Hamas that there would be "consequences" if the Palestinian group did not agree to extend the now-ended phase one of the ceasefire in keeping with a proposal put forward by the United States presidential envoy, Steve Witkoff.

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Israel stops humanitarian aid into Gaza; Hamas calls cutoff 'a war crime'

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

Israel has stopped the entry of all humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, prompting a fierce reaction from the Hamas resistance movement which has called the measure "a war crime" and an attack on a ceasefire agreement between the two sides.

The regime stopped the entry of good and supplies into the besieged territory on Sunday, a day after the first phase of the ceasefire deal expired. Under the first phase of the agreement, which came into force on January 19, Israel and Hamas swapped prisoners, while the regime allowed entry of aid into Gaza.

Days before the expiration of the first phase, Hamas announced its readiness to enter talks over a second phase. Israel however backed an extension of the first phase, following a proposal by U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff.

"Prime Minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu has decided that as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be stopped," the Israeli PM's office said on Sunday in a statement quoted by CNN.

According to the statement, the office said it had cut off the Gaza aid following Hamas' refusal to accept Witkoff's proposal, and threatened the resistance movement with "additional consequences" if it continues to reject the proposal.

Netanyahu's decision to cut off humanitarian aid is "cheap extortion, a war crime and a blatant attack on the [ceasefire] agreement," Hamas said in a statement in response.

It called on the mediators of the deal, namely Qatar, the United States and Egypt, to exert pressure on Israel in order to prevent its "retaliatory" and "immoral" measures against the population of Gaza.

Hamas dismissed "unfounded" Israeli allegations that the movement had violated the ceasefire agreement, and said that the regime's insistence on accepting the U.S. proposal is an attempt to break the deal and prevent negotiations from entering a second phase.

Meanwhile, the Associated Press news agency reported an unnamed Israeli official as saying that the decision to suspend aid had been made in coordination with the Trump administration.

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Israel ditching Gaza truce with unwavering Trump support: Hamas

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

Tehran, IRNA -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas says Israel is ditching the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire with the unwavering support of U.S. President Donald Trump.

"The occupation has violated the ceasefire's clauses, from implementing the humanitarian aid protocol to not withdrawing from the Philadelphi [Corridor] and not entering negotiations for the second phase of the deal," Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said, according to Shehab news agency.

He added that the occupying regime is seeking to take advantage of the conditions that Trump has provided for them through the scheme to displace Gaza residents and threaten Hamas.

Early on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said that the regime will adopt the proposal put forward by Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, for an extension of the ceasefire in Gaza.

In response, senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi said that the move was a clear affirmation that Israel was disavowing the deals it previously signed.

"The only way to achieve stability in the region and the return of the prisoners is to complete the implementation of the agreement... starting with the implementation of the second phase," Mardawi said in a statement shared with AFP.

U.N. chief urges parties to find a way forward

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also reacted to the developments, stressing the importance of preventing a return to war, which he described as potentially catastrophic.

"The past six weeks have provided a fragile but vital reprieve, offering a measure of relief to both Palestinians and Israelis," Guterres said in a statement released on Saturday.

He called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to find a way forward on the next phase of the ceasefire.

"A permanent ceasefire and the release of all [prisoners] are essential to preventing escalation and averting more devastating consequences for civilians," the U.N. chief added.

The Israeli regime and Hamas announced a three-phase ceasefire deal on January 15, following U.N.-endorsed indirect negotiations between the two sides.

Hamas has repeatedly said that it remains committed to the negotiations for the second phase of the deal, asserting that Israel has "no choice" but to engage in talks.

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EU 'gravely' concerned about Israeli offensive in north West Bank

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

The European Union has expressed its "grave concern" about the repercussions of an Israeli offensive in the occupied West Bank, which has targeted several northern cities and their refugee camps for more than a month now.

"The operation, ongoing for 40 days, has resulted in scores of casualties, the displacement of some 40,000 Palestinians from their homes, and the destruction of vital civilian infrastructure," the Office of the EU Representative for the West Bank and the Gaza Strip said in a statement on Saturday.

The EU called on Israel to "comply with international law" by ensuring the protection of Palestinian civilians during military operations and allow the displaced to safely return to their homes.

Further in the statement, the bloc condemned Israel's demolitions in the occupied West Bank and its policy of expanding settlements. It also expressed concern over the rising number of checkpoints and tighter movement restrictions that "worsen the economic and humanitarian situation" across the West Bank.

Israel has intensified its crackdown against Palestinians in the West Bank ever since it invaded the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. The regime also launched an offensive on January 21 this year, two days after a ceasefire took effect in Gaza.

That offensive, which has continued unabated so far, has targeted the cities of Jenin, Tulkarm and Tubas, as well as their surrounding areas, leaving nearly 30 Palestinians dead, according to Palestinian media.

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PM Netanyahu's Remarks at the Start of the Government Meeting

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Media Statements

02.03.2025

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today ,at the start of the Government meeting:

"Last night I held a security discussion with the participation of the Defense Minister, the faction heads, senior security establishment officials and the negotiating team. Upon the conclusion of the discussion, we decided on the following steps:

Israel adopts the framework of President Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, for a temporary ceasefire for the Ramadan and Passover period.

We are fully coordinating with President Trump and his people.

According to the information that Israel has, Hamas is currently holding 59 hostages: Up to 24 are alive and at least 35 are deceased.

We are not giving up on anyone and we are determined to bring them all back home.

According to the Witkoff proposal, on the first day of his framework half of the hostages will be released in one phase. At the end of the framework - if agreement is reached - the remaining hostages will be released, also in one phase.

Steve Witkoff proposed the framework for extending the ceasefire after gaining the impression that there is no possibility, at present, of bridging between the two positions, Israel's and Hamas's, regarding the second stage and that additional time for talks was necessary in order to achieve a possible agreement. He even defined his proposal as a corridor for negotiations on the second stage. Israel is ready for this.

I would like to make it clear: Contrary to claims that I hear from analysts in the studios, Israel is not in violation while Hamas has repeatedly violated the agreement on the first stage.

According to the original agreement, Israel can return to fighting after the 42nd day if it has gained the impression that the negotiations have been ineffective. This article is supported in a side letter of the previous US administration and has also received the full backing and support of the Trump administration. But even so, we agreed to the Witkoff framework because we are committed to returning all of our hostages.

While Israel has agreed to the Witkoff framework, Hamas has - so far - clung to its refusal and has not agreed to the framework.

If Hamas changes its position, Israel will immediately enter into negotiations on implementing the framework.

I would like to clarify something else: There will be no free lunches. If Hamas thinks that it will be possible to continue the ceasefire or benefit from the terms of the first stage, without us receiving hostages, it is sorely mistaken.

I would like to make it clear to you, citizens of Israel: We have concluded the first stage with great success. We freed 30 living hostages and brought home eight deceased hostages for a Jewish burial. Few believed that we would succeed in this - but we acted determinedly and vigorously, and we succeeded.

Upon the conclusion of the first stage, and in light of Hamas's rejection of the Witkoff framework, we decided - at last night's discussion - that as of this morning, the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza will be prevented.

It must be emphasized: Hamas currently controls all of the supplies and goods that are being sent to the Gaza Strip. It is abusing the Gazan population that is trying to receive the aid, it is shooting at them, and is turning the humanitarian aid into a budget for terrorism directed against us. To this we will not agree in any way.

If Hamas continues to stick to its position and does not release our hostages, there will be additional consequences, which I will not detail here.

As of today, we have returned 196 hostages, and I remind you that at the start of the war there were those who doubted our ability to return even one hostage.

Again - we demand the release of all of our hostages, the living and the deceased.

We are committed to this. I am committed to this. And with G-d's help, we will neither stop nor be silent until we achieve it."

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Prime Minister's Office Announcement

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Media Statements

The 37th Government

02.03.2025

The Prime Minister's Office, this morning:

With the conclusion of the first stage of the hostages deal and in light of Hamas's refusal to accept the Witkoff framework for the continuation of the talks, to which Israel has agreed, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, the entry of all goods and supplies to the Gaza Strip will be halted.

Israel will not allow a ceasefire without a release of our hostages. If Hamas persists in its refusal, there will be additional consequences.

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UN relief chief says Israel's decision to halt Gaza aid 'alarming'

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 7:15 PM

Tom Fletcher, the UN's emergency relief coordinator, has strongly denounced Israel's decision to halt aid into Gaza as "alarming."

In a social media post on Sunday, Fletcher said "international law makes it clear that humanitarian assistance must be allowed into the Gaza Strip."

Several UN aid agencies and human rights experts have warned that Israel's blockade of Gaza aid is a flagrant breach of international law and an act of inhumanity.

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) warned that Israel halting all entry of aid into Gaza will have devastating consequences for over two million civilians, who are already facing starvation and extreme deprivation.

"Humanitarian aid is not a privilegeit is a right," said Angelita Caredda, NRC's Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

"People in Gaza are already facing desperate conditions. With food supplies running out, hospitals unable to function, and families struggling to find clean water, any restrictions on aid will push the civilian population beyond collapse."

Separately, Jeremy Corbyn, who led the UK Labor Party between 2015 and 2020, said that Israel's actions were a "resumption of genocide," before adding that the British government was "complicit."

Meanwhile, the international organization Doctors Without Borders (MSF) strongly censured Israel's use of aid as a "bargaining chip."

The decision is "outrageous and will have devastating consequences," said the group's emergency coordinator Caroline Seguin.

"Humanitarian aid should never be used as a tool of war," added the international medical charity.

"Regardless of negotiations between warring parties, people in Gaza still need an immediate and massive scale-up of humanitarian supplies," it said in a statement.

The reactions come as Israel blocked entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza after the first phase of the ceasefire deal ended with no agreement on a second phase.

Dozens of trucks carrying aid for the Palestinians remain stranded at the Rafah border in Egypt after Israel blocked entry into Gaza.

The Israeli regime has routinely and repeatedly violated the ceasefire agreement, including through blocking the entry of tents, mobile homes and items of necessity.

The initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire ended without progress, despite negotiations in Cairo.

The ceasefire includes three six-week phases aimed at aiding humanitarian efforts, releasing captives, and withdrawal of Israeli troops.

While captives have been exchanged, stalled talks and continued Israeli violations threaten the truce and escalate hostilities.

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has already denounced the Israeli move as a "war crime" against the besieged territory.

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement said resistance factions in Gaza are committed to the ceasefire agreement based on the three phases.

The Islamic Jihad also slammed Israel for sabotaging the ceasefire in Gaza, and said the regime bears responsibility for the consequences.

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Israeli ministers urge Netanyahu to 'open gates of hell' on Gaza until all Israeli captives released

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 6:52 PM

A decision by Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel to stop the entry of all humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip has been welcomed by the regime's far-right coalition, with lawmakers and ministers urging the prime minister to "open the gates of hell" on the people of Gaza.

Netanyahu's office said on Sunday that the prime minister decided to stop the entry of all goods and supplies into Gaza until Hamas agrees to a US-backed extension of the first stage of the ceasefire deal.

Far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich, whose party is crucial to keeping Netanyahu's regime in power, said Sunday that the prime minister's decision was "an important step in the right direction."

He urged Netanyahu to "completely halt humanitarian aid to Gaza until Hamas is destroyed or completely surrenders and all our hostages are returned."

Describing Tel Aviv's move as the "threshold of the gates of hell," Smotrich said, "Now we need to open those gates as quickly and lethally as possible on the cruel enemy, until absolute victory."

In separate remarks, the deputy speaker of the Knesset echoed Smotrich's words, saying that Tel Aviv "must make Palestinians feel that the gates of hell have truly opened."

Nissim Vaturi urged the regime's military to start "bombing food warehouses in Gaza."

Vaturi has previously criticized Netanyahu for dealing with Gaza's population "too leniently."

Separately, Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir said that Netanyahu must cut off electricity and water in Gaza until Hamas releases all Israeli captives.

He said that this is the right moment to "open the gates of hell" on Gaza.

Under the framework of the "temporary ceasefire," proposed by Washington, half of the remaining living and deceased captives held by Hamas would be released on the first day.

Hamas has ruled out that approach and instead called for the second phase as originally planned. It has also warned that Tel Aviv "bears responsibility" for the fate of Israeli captives.

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Egypt says to present Gaza reconstruction plan at emergency Arab summit

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 5:32 PM

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has said the Gaza reconstruction plan, which guarantees Palestinians the right to stay on their land, will be presented at the upcoming emergency Arab summit this week.

Abdelatty in a presser on Sunday stressed that the reconstruction plan will not be purely Egyptian or Arab but will seek international support to ensure its successful implementation.

"We will hold intensive talks with major donor countries once the plan is adopted at the upcoming Arab Summit," Abdelatty was quoted as saying.

Abdelatty said that following the emergency Arab Summit on March 4, there will be an urgent ministerial meeting for the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where foreign ministers will push for the summit's outcomes to be presented globally.

"We will ensure that the results of the Arab summit are presented to the world in the best possible way," Abdelatty added.

US President Donald Trump has proposed displacing Palestinians from the besieged Gaza Strip to neighboring countries. He unveiled the scheme during a White House news conference in early February with the visiting Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israeli minister of military affairs Israel Katz has ordered the regime's military to prepare a plan that would force the "voluntary departure" of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.

Egypt and Jordan have rejected Trump's proposal that they should take in Palestinians from Gaza.

Trump's plan has already sparked international condemnation. It has faced resounding rejection among Palestinians, West Asian leaders, and governments around the world.

The US special envoy to West Asia, Steve Witkoff, said on February 25 that a summit will soon be held with real estate developers and planners from the region to discuss the controversial plan for Gaza.

Palestinians have denounced the scheme as a "declaration of war."

Arab states who were swift to reject Trump's plan for the US to take control of Gaza and resettle Palestinians are scrambling to agree on a diplomatic offensive to counter the idea.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Abdelatty stressed the importance of safely executing the ceasefire agreement signed in January, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring its proper implementation.

"The first phase has concluded successfully, and now we must shift to discussions on the second phase, which is key to sustaining the ceasefire," he said.

"Naturally, it will be difficult, but with goodwill and political determination, it can be achieved."

Israel accepted Hamas' longstanding negotiation terms under the Gaza truce, which began on January 19.

The Tel Aviv regime failed to achieve its declared objectives despite killing at least 48,348 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in Gaza.

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Israel's airstrikes kill 4 in Gaza; Hamas warns Tel Aviv over fate of captives

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 4:48 PM

At least four Palestinians have been killed in Gaza as Israel has resumed its aggression on the besieged territory hours after the first phase of the fragile ceasefire agreement came to an end.

The Gaza ministry of health said on Sunday that Israel's airstrikes on "various parts of the territory" have killed four people and injured six people since this morning.

The regime's military said in a statement that its forces have carried out an air strike in northern Gaza targeting people it suspected of "planting an explosive device" near its soldiers.

Reports said earlier that a drone attack on the northern town of Beit Hanoon killed at least one person and injured another.

The military said it will "continue to operate in order to eliminate any threat posed to the citizens of the state of Israel" and its forces.

Under the ceasefire deal that took effect on January 19, Israel had largely halted its airstrikes on Gaza.

The deal had also facilitated the release of dozens of Israeli captives and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and abductees.

Israel said it wanted an extension of the first stage for the exchange of Israeli captives, alive and deceased, in return for the continued release of Palestinian prisoners and abductees.

Hamas, however, ruled out that approach and instead called for the second phase as originally planned.

"Extending the first phase in the manner proposed by the occupation is unacceptable to us," Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem told CNN.

He said Tel Aviv "aims to recover its captives while maintaining the possibility of resuming aggression against the Gaza Strip, which contradicts the terms of the agreement."

The second phase was to include a permanent end to Israel's military campaign, a full withdrawal of the regime's forces from Gaza and the release of around 60 remaining captives held by Hamas.

There are thought to be 24 Israeli hostages still alive in Gaza.

Israel also stopped the entry of all goods and supplies into the coastal enclave on Sunday and warned of "additional consequences" if Hamas doesn't accept a proposal to extend the truce deal.

Hamas spokesman Qassema said in a separate statement that Israel "bears responsibility for the consequences of its decision on the population of the (Gaza) Strip and for the fate of" Israeli captives in Gaza.

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Hamas decries as 'war crime' Israeli suspension of humanitarian aid to Gaza

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 11:30 AM

The Israeli regime has suspended the entry of humanitarian aid supplies to the Gaza Strip amid the termination of the first phase of the January 19 ceasefire agreement, with the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas denouncing the move as a "war crime" against the besieged territory.

Palestinian media's live footage broadcast from the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah showed a road often used by aid-delivering trucks remaining empty on Sunday after Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced a halt on the entry of all goods and supplies into the blockaded enclave.

The office claimed that the move was prompted after Hamas's refusal to accept an American proposal to extend phase one of the ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover holidays and alongside more releases of Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian abductees.

"With the end of Phase 1 of the [exchange] deal and in light of Hamas's refusal to accept the [US special envoy Steve] Witkoff outline for continuing talks - to which Israel agreed - Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that, as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will cease," the office said in a statement.

"Israel will not allow a ceasefire without the release of our [captives]," Netanyahu's office added, warning of "further consequences" if Hamas insists on its decision.

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri said Israel's blockage of aid entry into Gaza would impact the ceasefire talks, adding that the resistance movement "doesn't respond to pressures."

Israel's public broadcaster Kan said Netanyahu is not interested in discussing the second phase of the ceasefire deal and opts for ratcheting up pressure on Hamas by resuming its aggression on the besieged Palestinian territory.

"He is considering briefly resuming military assault on Gaza to put pressure on Hamas or maintaining the ceasefire without further prisoners' exchanges, allowing mediators more time to push Hamas for additional concessions despite that this is violating the overall ceasefire deal," the broadcaster said.

Smotrich: We must open gates of hell as fast as possible

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich defended Netanyahu's blocking of humanitarian aid to Gaza and resumption of attacks on the strip.

"The decision we made last night to completely halt the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza until Hamas is destroyed or surrenders completely and all our [captives] are returned is an important step in the right direction'standing at the gates of hell,'" Smotrich said.

"Now, we must open these gates as quickly and as lethally as possible."

Following the statement of Netanyahu's office, the occupation closed the Kerem Abu Salem crossing and forced the return of all aid trucks.

Palestinian media reports said Israeli occupation forces also opened fire on Palestinian homes in the Shujaiyya neighborhood of Gaza City and on their homes east of the town of Abasan, southern Gaza.

Hamas on Sunday insisted on the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire in the besieged Gaza Strip after the Israeli regime unilaterally endorsed a temporary extension of its initial phase.

The Palestinian resistance movement said any further captive-abductee exchanges with Israel would only be possible after the two sides engage in the second phase of Gaza ceasefire negotiations.

'Continuation of genocidal war on Gaza'

Gaza's Government Media Office said Israel's move to block the entry of essential aid to Gaza represents a continuation of the genocidal war on the Palestinian people.

"The occupation's announcement of halting the entry of aid into the Gaza Strip is yet another confirmation of its failure to uphold its commitments and its evasion of obligations under the ceasefire agreement. This reflects its ugly criminal face and constitutes a continuation of the genocide against our people, as well as an act of blackmail targeting an entire population by depriving them of food, water, and medicine," the office said in a statement.

"Once again, the occupation demonstrates its disregard for international law and its blatant violation of the International Charter of Human Rights," it added.

"Preventing the entry of aid effectively amounts to a starvation war against the people of Gaza, who rely entirely on humanitarian assistance for their survival due to the collapse of all work and production sectors as a result of the occupation's atrocities."

The office called on the mediators, as guarantors, to pressure the occupation to fulfill its obligations under the agreement in all its phases, implement the humanitarian protocol, and allow the entry of shelter and relief supplies, as well as rescue equipment and machinery into Gaza.

"We demand a unified Arab and Islamic stance and a firm international position to pressure the occupation and its supporters to stop this latest crimeanother crime against humanity, ethnic cleansing, and genocide through starvation, targeting over 2.4 million people."

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Israeli cabinet allows military to call up 400,000 reservists

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 11:11 AM

The Israeli cabinet has approved the extension of a special order that authorizes the regime's military to recruit up to 400,000 soldiers for reserve duty by the end of May 2025.

The move came on Sunday after Israel prevented its ceasefire deal with the Hamas resistance group from going to the second phase, raising speculations about a resumption of the genocidal war on the Gaza Strip.

A copy of the order said that 2025 would be considered a "year of war."

Israel launched its brutal Gaza onslaught on October 7, 2023, after Hamas carried out a historic operation against the usurping entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

The Tel Aviv regime failed to achieve its declared objectives of freeing captives and eliminating Hamas despite killing at least 48,388 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in Gaza.

Israel accepted Hamas's longstanding negotiation terms under the three-phase Gaza truce, which began on January 19.

In phase one, which ended on Saturday, a total of 33 Israeli captives, including eight bodies, were released in exchange for 1,737 Palestinian abductees held in the regime's jails.

Israel insisted on the extension of the initial phase. However, Hamas called for advancing to the second phase, which includes the release of all remaining living Israeli captives, a full withdrawal of the occupation troops from Gaza, and a permanent end to the war.

Hamas condemned Israel's "ongoing manipulation" with its proposed extension of the initial phase of the ceasefire.

On Sunday, Israel blocked the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi said in a statement that "the only path to regional stability and the return of the prisoners is the full implementation of the agreement, starting with the second phase."

Hamas wants the second phase to include negotiations for a permanent ceasefire, a complete pullout of Israeli forces from Gaza, the territory's reconstruction, "and then the release of prisoners as part of an agreed-upon deal," he added. "This is what we insist on, and we will not back down from it," he added.

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Hamas urges upcoming Arab summit to uphold rejection of displacement schemes

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 9:51 AM

Hamas has reaffirmed its readiness to cooperate with any initiative to counter attempts to displace Palestinians and reconstruct the Gaza Strip, provided that Palestinian rights remain intact, urging the upcoming Arab summit to maintain its rejection of such schemes.

"We are ready to cooperate with any initiative that aims to counter the displacement of our people from Gaza and to rebuild the strip, without compromising Palestinian rights  particularly our people's inalienable right to resist the occupation," Mohammed Darwish, head of Hamas' Leadership Council, said in a message addressed to the forthcoming event in Cairo next week.

Darwish said Hamas "is committed to completing the remaining phases of the ceasefire agreement, leading to a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire, the full withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from Gaza, reconstruction, and the lifting of the siege."

He asserted that the post-war future of Gaza "must be entirely Palestinian, based on national consensus and supported by Arab partners."

According to Darwish, Hamas is willing to engage with any Palestinian-agreed solution, whether through the formation of a national unity government composed of technocratic Palestinian experts and professionals or through the establishment of the Social Support Committee proposed by Egypt to manage Gaza's affairs under existing Palestinian laws.

He emphatically rejected "any attempt to impose non-Palestinian administrative arrangements or the presence of foreign forces in Gaza."

The senior Hamas official also expressed his groups' appreciation for the unified Arab stance against Palestinian displacement, especially the positions of Egypt and Jordan.

Darwish urged Arab nations to actively participate in Gaza's reconstruction, describing it as "the most crucial step to strengthening Palestinian resilience, preventing forced displacement, and thwarting Israeli attempts to depopulate Palestinian land and seize control over it."

The international community has rejected US President Donald Trump's plan to take over Gaza and move Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan.

The Muslim world and other nations have vehemently rejected the idea, stressing it amounts to ethnic cleansing.

Israel's genocidal war on Gaza has led to the death of at least 48,388 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injury of 111,803 others since early October 2023.

A ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement went into effect in Gaza on January 19, halting Israel's aggressive campaign against the coastal region.

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Hamas: Swap deal only possible after second phase of ceasefire talks

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 9:22 AM

The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has said that any further captive-abductee exchanges with Israel will only be possible after the two sides engage in the second phase of Gaza ceasefire negotiations.

In a statement on Sunday, the Gaza-based resistance group highlighted that the Israeli regime is "blatantly attempting" to "evade" talks for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement.

"The statement issued by the office of the terrorist [Israeli] occupation Prime Minister Netanyahu, regarding his alleged approval of American proposals to extend the first phase of the agreement under arrangements that violate the ceasefire agreement in Gaza is a blatant attempt to evade the agreement and avoid entering negotiations for its second phase," read he statement.

As the 42-day first phase of the previously agreed ceasefire came to an end on Saturday, Netanyahu's office unilaterally announced that Israel will adopt the proposal by US President Donald Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, for an extension of the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza for the Ramadan and Passover periods

"We affirm that the only way for the [Israeli] occupation to recover its prisoners is to abide by the agreement and immediately enter negotiations for the second phase while fulfilling its obligations," the statement added.

As part of the initial phase of the ceasefire agreement, over 2,000 Palestinian abductees, held illegally in Israeli prisons and detention centers in exchange for 25 Israeli captives and the remains of eight others.

Israeli authorities claim that 27 captives remain in captivity within the Gaza Strip, and 32 bodies have yet to be recovered.

Hamas called on the US administration to end its "bias" and "alignment" with the "fascist plans of war criminal Netanyahu, which target our people and their very existence on their land."

Hams, in its statement, also criticized Israel's "daily" and "systematic violations" of the ceasefire that have resulted in the killing of over 100 Palestinians in Gaza, the obstruction of humanitarian protocols, the prevention of shelter and aid supplies, and the deepening of the humanitarian catastrophe in the Strip.

"We urge mediators to pressure the occupation into fulfilling its commitments under the agreement, ensuring the implementation of the humanitarian protocol, and allowing the entry of shelter materials and rescue equipment into Gaza," it added.

On Saturday, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem also rejected Israel's proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, calling on the international community to pressure Tel Aviv to proceed to the second phase of the deal as originally planned.

"Extending the first phase of the deal in the form proposed by Israel is unacceptable" to the resistance group, Qassem said, adding that the occupying regime bears full responsibility for the failure to begin negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire.

The Hamas spokesman said the Israeli regime is evading its commitment to ending the war and fully withdrawing from Gaza, adding that it "is trying to reset matters to square one by shuffling the cards with its proposal to extend the first phase."

Israel launched a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, after Hamas carried out a historic operation against the usurping entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people.

The Tel Aviv regime failed to achieve its declared objectives of freeing captives and eliminating Hamas despite killing at least 48,348 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in Gaza.

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Houthi warns Israel: Tel Aviv will come under fire if it resumes Gaza war

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 6:48 AM

The leader of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has sternly warned the occupying Israeli regime against reigniting the Gaza war, emphasizing that any resumption of fighting would result in retaliatory strikes targeting Israeli-occupied territories, particularly Tel Aviv.

Abdul-Malik al-Houthi made the remarks in a televised speech broadcast from the Yemeni capital, Sana'a, late on Saturday, on the first night of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

"We reaffirm our firm stance as well as strong religious, humanitarian and moral commitment to support the Palestinian people and fighters from various resistance groups, especially those of the Qassam Brigades - the military wing of Hamas," he said.

The Ansarullah chief noted that Yemen is closely monitoring Israel's attempts to shirk its obligations under the Gaza ceasefire deal and escape the requirements of the second phase of the fragile truce on the release of prisoners.

Houthi emphasized that the very existence of the Zionist enemy will be in jeopardy and Tel Aviv will be the prime target in case Israel resumes the war on Gaza.

He stated that Yemeni forces will intervene across various military fronts in support of Gaza if the Tel Aviv regime resumes its bloody onslaught against the besieged coastal sliver.

The remarks came after the Israeli broadcasting authority reported that the Israeli army is preparing to resume the war in the Gaza Strip if no agreement is reached to extend the ceasefire.

"Achieving calm in Gaza requires an active agreement; otherwise, the only two options are the release of prisoners or war," it said, citing a senior Israeli security source.

The broadcaster also cited sources close to prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said he is not interested in moving to the second stage of the captives-prisoners exchange deal.

Backed by the United States and its Western allies, Israel launched the war on Gaza after Hamas and other Gaza-based Palestinian resistance movements carried out Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against the Israeli regime in response to its decades-long campaign of oppression against Palestinians.

Israel's genocidal war on Gaza has resulted in the killing of at least 48,388 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and the injury of 111,803 others since early October 2023.

A ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement went into effect in Gaza on January 19, halting Israel's aggressive campaign against the coastal region.

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OPINION: Despots face a security rethink in the age of drones

Authoritarians are realizing that traditional police state tactics are not enough to secure regimes in the drone era.

By commentator David Hutt 2025.03.02 -- On Feb. 11, Hun Sen, Cambodia's de-facto ruler, claimed that the authorities had weeks ago uncovered a plot to kill him at his provincial mansion using drones.

One person was apparently arrested, Hun Sen said, but others may still be at large.

Who knows whether it is true or not?

Some people suspect it's a conceit by Hun Sen, the former prime minister who handed power to his eldest son in 2023, to justify his incoming law that will brandish political opponents as "terrorists", in an attempt to deter foreigners from aiding the exiled opposition movement.

Speaking about the alleged plot on his life, Hun Sen connected the two: "This is an act of terrorism, and I'd like to urge foreigners to be cautious, refraining from supporting terrorist activities."

Such skepticism led one commentator, in an interview with Radio Free Asia, to claim that "ordinary citizens do not have the ability" to hit his heavily guarded Takhmao home.

In fact, they do.

Cheap drones for Myanmar opposition

Myanmar's four-year-old civil war has shown just how much drones have revolutionized not just warfare but the balance of power between the state and the individual.

A long-range modified and armed drone costs Myanmar's rebels around US$1,500.

By comparison, the International Crisis Group reckons second-hand AK-47s or M-16s cost US$3,000 each.

Myanmar's military recently took delivery of six Su-30SMEs fighter jets from Russia, for which it paid $400 million -- excluding the weaponry.

As one commentator put it last year: "In an asymmetric conflict, the drone is helping to equalize the battlescape."

Junta forces are catching up, for sure. AFP reported a few weeks ago that "the military is adopting the equipment of the anti-coup fighters, using drones to drop mortars or guide artillery strikes and bombing runs by its Chinese and Russian-built air force."

However, the revolutionary importance of drones isn't that a superior force will never adopt the same technology. It's that drones -- now an irreplaceable weapon in modern warfare -- cannot be monopolized by a state.

Not for almost two centuries has there been such a technological leap in the balance of power. Not for at least the past 100 years has a dominant weapon been as cheap and available to the masses.

'History of weapons'

In October 1945, George Orwell published a short essay that's best known for popularizing the term "Cold War".

"You And The Atom Bomb" also offered a take on the weapons that's rarely reflected on these days.

Had the nuclear bomb been as cheap and easy as a bicycle to produce, Orwell reasoned, it might have "plunged us back into barbarism."

But because the bomb is a rare and costly thing to make, it might "complete the process [of] robbing the exploited classes and peoples of all power to revolt."

Mutually Assured Destruction would keep the peace between the nuclear states, but it meant that existing dictatorship could become permanent, Orwell feared.

How would a band of rag-tag rebels fair against a despot or imperialist prepared to quell any rebellion with a nuclear explosion?

Would the dictator who happily drops biological weapons on their own people not as easily reach for tactical nuclear bombs if they could?

Would the North Korean regime not prefer to go down in a nuclear blaze if the masses were ever to rise up?

Orwell noted that "the history of civilisation is largely the history of weapons."

Students of history are taught that gunpowder made possible a proper rebellion against feudal power; that the musket, cheap and easy to use, replaced the cannon and made possible the American and French revolutions.

Its successor, the breech-loading rifle, was slightly more complex, yet "even the most backward nation could always get hold of rifles from one source or another," Orwell noted.

State arsenals only

The early 20th century, however, saw the invention of weapons only available to the state and only the most industrialized statesthe tank, the aircraft, the submarine and, foremost, the nuclear bomb.

Vietnamese communists, by some accounts, were peasant volunteers who battled with nothing but smuggled guns, punji traps and a clear sense of what they were fighting for, but they were able to defeat the industrialized armies of France and the United States.

In reality, the communists were well supplied with non-rudimentary weaponry by Beijing and Moscow.

More representative of rag-tag guerrilla success were the East Timorese rebels, who had no patrons and only the most basic weapons to battle against Indonesian imperialism and its vastly superior forces.

Their stunning achievement was simply keeping their struggle alive for so long.

But the East Timorese were never going to secure independence in the jungles and hills; their victory depended on staying in the fight until international opinion turned in their favor.

Had it not, Timor-Leste would still be a province of Indonesia, as West Papuans know all too well.

Perhaps drone warfare won't bring victory to Myanmar's revolutionaries.

Fighting alone doesn't win wars. Alliances, superior industrial production, international opinion and quite a bit of luck  all are as important.

Yet without drone warfare, the junta would arguably have won this battle a lot sooner.

It probably hasn't been lost on the Thai military that another coup might not be accepted as meekly as in earlier military takeovers by a populace which has closely observed events in neighboring Myanmar.

Intentional or not, Hun Sen's revelation that someone apparently tried to kill him using drones has imbued him and his impregnable regime with a rare sense of vulnerability.

His family rules over a 100,000-strong military that he has instructed to "destroy... revolutions that attempt to topple" his regime, plus a loyal National Police and an elite private bodyguard unit.

One son is head of military intelligence. Another son, Prime Minister Hun Manet, was previously the army chief.

But, as despots are now realizing, all that now means a lot less in the age of the drone.

David Hutt is a research fellow at the Central European Institute of Asian Studies (CEIAS) and the Southeast Asia Columnist at the Diplomat. The views expressed here are his own and do not reflect the position of RFA.

Copyright 1998-2025, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content March not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Foreign Ministry Expresses Saudi Arabia's Condemnation and Denunciation of Israeli Occupation Government's Decision to Halt Access of Humanitarian Aid into the Gaza Strip

Saudi Press Agency

Riyadh, March 02, 2025, SPA -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expresses the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's condemnation and denunciation of the Israeli occupation government's decision to halt the access of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The use of aid as a tool for extortion and collective punishment constitutes a blatant violation of international law and a direct infringement of the basis of international humanitarian law, especially in light of the humanitarian catastrophe facing the Palestinian people.

The Kingdom reiterates its call on the international community to put an end to these grave Israeli violations, activate international accountability mechanisms, and ensure the sustainable delivery of aid.

--SPA

22:57 Local Time 19:57 GMT

0045

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Taliban refute Trump's claim of Chinese control over Afghan base as 'emotional'

By Ayaz Gul March 02, 2025

Taliban officials have denied President Donald Trump's recent assertions that China holds control over a crucial former U.S.-operated military base in Afghanistan.

The sprawling Bagram Air Base in question, situated about 44 kilometers north of the national capital of Kabul, served as the central command for the 20-year U.S.-led military campaign in the country until all U.S. and NATO troops withdrew in August 2021 and Taliban insurgents reclaimed power

"They should refrain from making emotional statements based on unsubstantiated information," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told their official broadcaster when asked for a response to Trump's claims that China currently controls the air base.

"Bagram is controlled by the Islamic Emirate [Taliban regime], not China. Chinese troops are not present here, nor do we have any such pact with any country," Mujahid said in the interview broadcast on Saturday night. "We request that Trump's team [of advisors] explain to him and correct his information about Afghanistan."

Trump negotiated the troop withdrawal deal with the Taliban insurgency in February 2020 during his previous term in office, but it was executed under President Joe Biden.

Trump claimed during his election campaign speeches that Bagram was under the control of China's People's Liberation Army, and he reiterated it before his first Cabinet meeting last Wednesday, saying Biden should have kept control of the former U.S. base.

Beijing has increased cooperation with Taliban-run Afghanistan since the U.S. troop exit but vehemently denied any military presence in the country.

"We were going to get out, but we were going to keep Bagram, not because of Afghanistan but because of China, because it's exactly one hour away from where China makes its nuclear missiles," Trump stated in his Wednesday remarks. "And you know who's occupying it right now? China. Biden gave it up," he said.

The U.S. president criticized the previous administration for what he described as the "badly handled" military withdrawal, saying the departing troops left behind billions of dollars' worth of equipment.

Trump stated that the Taliban were selling U.S.-made gear, making Afghanistan "one of the biggest" sellers of military equipment in the world.

"Can you believe it? They're selling 777,000 rifles, 70,000 armor-plated ...trucks and vehicles  70,000 ... This is 70,000 vehicles we had there, and we left it for them. I think we should get it back," the president said.

Trump pledged to reclaim U.S. military equipment from the Taliban if Washington were to allocate "billions of dollars" in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

"And if we're doing that, I think they should give our equipment back. And I told Pete to study that," the president said, pointing to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth sitting beside him.

Mujahid responded to Trump's claims on Saturday, stating that the military equipment had been provided to the U.S.-backed former government in Kabul and now belongs to the Taliban as "spoils of war."

Mujahid added that the Taliban use the weapons to defend Afghanistan and will be utilized to counter any intervention aimed at taking them back. Mujahid stated that if the United States insists on reclaiming military equipment, Kabul will rightfully expect substantial war reparations for the consequences Afghans have endured over the past two decades of conflict.

A U.S. Department of Defense report found that Washington provided $18.6 billion of equipment to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces from 2005 to 2021. About $7 billion worth of hardware remained in Afghanistan during the troop exit, including aircraft, air-to-ground munitions, military vehicles, weapons, communications equipment, and other materials.

John Sopko, the former U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, dismissed the idea of retrieving American military equipment as "pointless."

He spoke at a security dialogue regarding the ongoing Afghan political and social crisis, stating that a significant amount of U.S. weaponry had been provided to former Afghan national defense forces, but much of it has either been destroyed or is now in disrepair.

"The cost of retrieving this equipment would exceed its actual value," Sopko told the two-day event, organized by the independent Afghan Institute for Strategic Studies in Spain.

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HMNZS Canterbury to provide platform for NZ work in Sub-Antarctic islands

New Zealand Defence Force

The Royal New Zealand Navy's HMNZS Canterbury is sailing for the Sub-Antarctic on a two-week deployment enabling government agencies to carry out essential work on New Zealand's far-flung islands.

03 March, 2025

The military sealift vessel departed Bluff on Saturday for the 465km journey south to the Auckland Islands (Maungahuka) and then Campbell Island (Moutere Ihupuku), which are constantly buffeted by the winds and storms that circle Antarctica in the Southern Ocean.

The Sub-Antarctic Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for many years the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has played a crucial role in supporting agencies that protect the natural heritage, important biodiversity, and pest-free status of both sets of islands.

On board Canterbury are staff from the Department of Conservation (DOC), MetService, representatives from Ngai Tahu and members of the 2025 Sir Peter BLAKE Expedition.

Commanding Officer of HMNZS Canterbury, Commander Bronwyn Heslop, says the contingent will be busy with a heavy work programme, but she is confident the ship will perform well in what can be extreme conditions.

"Due to previous cyclone responses there is a backlog of work to be done, and to complete that we have two Seasprite helicopters embarked, which will help us shift tonnes of material on and off the islands. The helicopters will also be able to move personnel to difficult-to-reach locations.

"We've got specialist support from across the NZDF, including personnel from 6 Squadron working with the Seasprites and an aerial delivery detachment from the New Zealand Army's 1st Brigade, which will help with loading and unloading on the islands.

DOC has a large programme of work planned for Campbell Island, including assessing heritage sites, archaeological maintenance, removing rubbish and waste materials, hut and track maintenance.

Ngai Tahu tasks include scientific research ashore and in the water, and also assessing how long it will take to cut and maintain tracks on the island.

Sealion pup shelters will be delivered to Davis Point, Tucker Cove Hut will be demolished and removed, and water tanks will be delivered to Moubray and Sorenson Huts.

Dog teams will also be used to check for animal pests and staff will carry out seabird surveys.

DOC staff will be dropped at Enderby Island (north of Auckland Island) early in the journey and picked up on the return trip. On Enderby, a DOC dog team will check for pests, while clean-up work will also be carried out.

MetService staff will carry out the regular maintenance of the automatic weather stations at Campbell Island and Enderby Island.

The BLAKE expedition comprises 23 scientists, students, and teachers. They will carry out field work across four projects, hoping to develop an understanding of climate change and biodiversity in the Southern Ocean.

They will be part of a new project focussing on springtails, which are minuscule, wingless land-dwelling invertebrates found throughout the sub-Antarctic islands.

They will also conduct rock sampling for Chlorine-36 surface exposure dating, revealing crucial data about historical glacier movements and climate patterns. The team will also carry on work with peat coring looking at historical climate changes and intertidal kelp surveys aimed at monitoring marine ecosystem health in response to warming seas.

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Gaza's future remains elusive as ceasefire talks stagnate

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:12, March 03, 2025

* The future for Gazans remains uncertain, as various proposals have emerged over post-war governance and rebuilding yet none has gained broad acceptance.

* However, negotiations have yet to address the second phase of the deal, which seeks to end the war in Gaza and secure Israel's complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, the source added.

* U.S. President Donald Trump has recently proposed the relocation of Gaza's Palestinian population to neighboring countries, stating that Gazans who left will not be allowed to return. The proposal has sparked continuous regional and international outcry.

GAZA, March 2 (Xinhua) -- As the first phase of the Gaza peace deal ended on Saturday and discussions on the second phase have yet to gain momentum, concerns are mounting that the hard-earned and fragile peace could be shattered again, impacting over 2 million people in the besieged coastal enclave.

The future for Gazans remains uncertain, as various proposals have emerged over post-war governance and rebuilding yet none has gained broad acceptance. Despite the instability, many residents have expressed their determination to stay. However, they will continue to endure displacement, destruction and uncertainty.

2ND PHASE ELUSIVE

An Israeli delegation proposed in Cairo extending the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire by 42 days, an informed Egyptian security source told Xinhua on Friday.

However, negotiations have yet to address the second phase of the deal, which seeks to end the war in Gaza and secure Israel's complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, the source added.

In response, Hamas said Saturday that the Israeli proposal of extending the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement is "unacceptable," adding that the mediators and guarantor countries are required to oblige the occupation to abide by the agreement in its various stages.

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said that there were still no negotiations with Hamas regarding the second phase of the agreement, accusing Israel of "evading the commitment to end the war and withdraw completely from Gaza."

On early Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said in a statement that Israel has accepted the U.S. proposal for a temporary ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza for the Ramadan and Passover holidays.

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began on Friday and will last until March 30, while the Jewish Passover week will be marked from April 12 to 20.

The statement also stressed that Israel may return to fighting if it believes that the negotiations are ineffective, as the first 42-day phase of the ceasefire-hostages agreement expired on Saturday.

The Israeli think tank Institute for National Security Studies commented, "Israel has not met the war objectives set by the political echelon: It did not fully destroy Hamas's military and governmental capabilities, and the release of the hostages until now has been only partial."

The Washington Institute for Near East Policy said the Israeli prime minister sees phase one of the ceasefire as beneficial due to the gradual release of hostages, but views phase two as a trap that would force Israel's full withdrawal from Gaza, limiting its ability to target Hamas.

Analysts told Xinhua that Netanyahu is also under pressure from far-right Cabinet members, who support only the first phase and demand guarantees that Gaza will no longer threaten Israel, or they will leave the coalition. Their opposition has made the government hesitant to advance negotiations.

DISPUTES OVER SOLUTIONS

U.S. President Donald Trump has recently proposed the relocation of Gaza's Palestinian population to neighboring countries, stating that Gazans who left will not be allowed to return. The proposal has sparked continuous regional and international outcry.

The Israeli Institute for Regional Foreign Policies called Trump's proposals "a mishmash of ideas," noting that Trump's proposals "are often seen as an attempt to apply business principles to diplomacy."

The American public is likely to oppose such a move, as America's appetite for involvement in overseas conflicts has diminished following the failures in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria, it said.

The proposal "is vehemently opposed by all Arab states, as it would force them to act against their own interests," it added. "If they were to accept it, they would risk undermining the legitimacy and stability of their regimes."

For Gazans, it's also unacceptable. "Israel has always aimed to end our existence either through killing or displacement. But we will remain steadfast on our land. Despite the hardship, we will not leave," Sajida Ayesh, a resident of Saftawi in northern Gaza, told Xinhua.

"We will rebuild what others have destroyed," the 29-year-old mother of three children added.

Ongoing disputes over Gaza's future include a proposal by Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid for an eight-year Egyptian administration over Gaza. Egypt has firmly rejected it, with its Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tamim Khalaf calling the proposals "half-solutions" that would only perpetuate cycles of conflict rather than achieving a permanent peace.

"Ending Hamas' rule ... cannot be achieved without a severe military blow, but it also cannot be achieved by a military blow alone. The elimination of Hamas' rule requires that there be another rule to replace it," an opinion article published by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz said.

HUMAN COST

Sajida, the Gaza resident, has been through a heartbreaking journey, repeatedly displaced within southern Gaza in search of safety for her family of five. "In the south, we endured the harshest suffering, fear and hunger ... The Israeli army's promise of protection was a lie," she said.

"I won't repeat that mistake. Even if they kill us here, we will die on our land," she added.

According to UN estimates on Feb. 4, over 565,000 people have fled southern Gaza for the north since Jan. 27. However, those who returned found only devastation. A UN report shows that 92 percent of homes in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed.

As Sajida reached the shores of Gaza City, she paused to watch the calm sea waves. "Sadly, everything has changed. Even the sea, which once reminded us of our dreams, now groans with us," she said.

While the ceasefire has allowed more humanitarian aid into Gaza, the relief remains insufficient. Over 1,500 water points are now operational, but water supply is only at about a quarter of pre-October 2023 levels. Meanwhile, around 350,000 chronically ill patients are facing critical shortages of medications, and between 12,000 and 14,000 people, including 5,000 children, are in urgent need of medical evacuation, according to UN reports.

A devastating winter storm swept through the Gaza Strip in early February. "With winter well underway, nearly 1 million displaced Palestinians remain in immediate need of assistance," the United Nations said.

Om Ahmed al-Ramli, a displaced woman in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, struggled desperately to salvage her remaining belongings after the storm ravaged her tent.

"These are not homes; they are just bits of cloth that barely shield us," she told Xinhua angrily. "Now, even that is gone. The storm took everything, including our last hope."

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Martlet Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM)

Future Air to Surface Guided Weapon [Light] (FASGW(L)

Martlet is based on the Starburst MANPADS , which was previously used by the British Army. Sea Skua was a response to missile-armed Soviet fast attack craft, and Martlet is a response to the fast inshore attack craft (FIAC) threat as characterised by those operated by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The Martlet heritage goes back to a surface to air missile, not an air to surface missile. Javelin replaced Blowpipe and Javelin-S15 (Starburst) replaced Javelin, which was then replaced by Starstreak HVM, much of the technology has evolved into the Martlet Lightweight Multirole Missile. Instead of developing aerodynamic data for a new missile design, Thales used data from Starburst as the starting point, a cost effective and wholly sensible approach.

Lightweight Multirole Missile - LMM (Martlet) is a new lightweight, precision strike, missile, which has been designed to be fired from airborne and ground tactical platforms in surface, ground attack and air defence roles; thus the multirole element of the name.

The missile, sealed in its canister and designed to be maintenance free for 15 years storage, consists of a two-stage motor, warhead and dual mode fuse, together with guidance electronics and a highly accurate control actuator system. A combined fragmenting and shaped charge warhead provides proven lethality against a wide range of conventional and asymmetric light skinned and armoured threats. The unique LMM laser guidance beam, generated from a sophisticated Laser Transmitter Unit (LTxU), projects low power coded signals direct to the LMM in flight thus ensuring precision engagement, command override and immunity against countermeasures.

In the naval domain, the system has been designed to counter the challenging threats ranging from Jet Skis and Fast Inshore Attack Craft (FIAC) to larger maritime combatants.

Thaless Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) system, has been proving its potential on land sea and air throughout 2019 against agile, asymmetrical surface and air threats. Due to go into service with UK Armed Forces LMM provides an enhanced level of protection as well as a transformational surface attack capability. Built in Belfast, LMM has already been proven its capability as a high-accuracy precision weapon against small, fast-moving targets when fired from a tripod launcher (LMLNG), a mobile wheeled vehicle (RAPIDRanger) and the Stormer tracked vehicle. LMM enters service with the British Army this year.

Under the name Martlet, LMM is being supplied to the Royal Navy, under the Future Anti Surface Guided Weapon (Light), or FASGW(L), program, fitted to the Navys Wildcat Helicopter. An integration programme is due to be completed in 2020. The system also demonstrated its versatility live firings involving a range of platforms, conditions and targets and in three domains.

Lightweight Multirole Missile [LMM] is a lightweight, precision strike multirole missile designed to be fired from a variety of tactical platforms on Land, Sea and Air against a wide range of conventional and asymmetric threats. The target set includes surface threats such as static installations, Armored Personnel Carriers (APC), asymmetric threats, fast in-shore attack craft and UAVs. The precision guidance and low collateral damage mean that LMM is optimised for operation in an urban environment.

On land, over 100 LMM firings have been conducted from land platforms including 90 firings by the Ground Based Air Defence troops from the Royal Marines and Royal Artillery as part of their conversion training for LMM coming into service. These firings verified the excellent lethality of LMM against UAVs, helicopters and even fixed wing aircraft in a point defence deployment, by successfully engaging with the Banshee aerial target.

At sea, LMM offers unique capability to defeat asymmetrical and terrorist threats in the littoral environment, such as Fast Inshore Attack Craft (FIAC), RIBs or even jet skis. The precision laser beam riding guidance concept of LMM and the accurate launcher stabilisation has been demonstrated for the first time in a UK MoD Sponsored TDP with several firings from a T23 Frigate off the Pembrokeshire coast at an operationally representative remote controlled FIAC target.

LMM Naval Target Set includes Fast inshore attack craft, patrol boats, mission kill larger ships. The Maritime environment creates a major challenge to conventional missile in engaging Fast In-shore Attack Craft (FIAC) threats, due to their high mobility, small signature and severe background clutter. Thales unique laser beam riding enables LMM to be accurately and securely guided in these difficult conditions to defeat FIAC targets at the extended ranges need to protect our ships against their swarm tactics.

In the air, the Future Anti Surface Guided Weapon (Light) program Martlet completed a successful series of ground based firing trial at Royal Artillery Range Manorbier to validate the Wildcat Fire Control solution including the 5 Missile Pannier and the Laser Guidance Unit integrated in the L3 MX15 Electro Optic Turret. Up to 20 Martlet Missiles can be integrated on the Wildcat helicopter to provide robust defence against swarm threats, and this capability is due in service with the Royal Navy in 2020.

The LMM Air Target Set includes Border protection air threats: helicopters, light aircraft and UAVs. LMM can be deployed on a wide range of versatile launcher systems, from standalone portable launchers or integrated on rapid response high firepower RAPIDRanger vehicle system to provide a Close Range Air Defence System which can destroy threats from light aircraft, helicopters or UAVs. LMM Land Target Set: conventional armor and asymmetric vehicles LMM possesses excellent lethality against conventional and asymmetric threats including APCs, wheeled and tracked vehicles, because of the shaped charge coupled with the pre-fragmented blast warhead, matched with the highly sensitive proximity fuze.

In July 2014, Leonardo signed a contract with the UK Ministry of Defence to integrate, test and install the MBDA Sea Venom (heavy) and Thales LMM (light) missile systems onto Royal Navy AW159 Wildcat helicopters, a programme called Future Anti Surface Guided Weapon (FASGW).

In 2019 Thales and the Royal Navy conducted a series of successful LMM (Martlet) ship-launched firings from a Type 23 frigate against a representative target set. These firings confirmed that LMM (Martlet) offers a mature, low-cost, high value solution to strengthen the inner layer defence capability of surface ships through re-use of current investment and the commonality and modularity between the helicopter and ship-based systems.

The FASGW (light) part of the program has now seen the LMM, with its associated launcher and airborne laser guidance unit, successfully integrated into the Leonardo AW159 Wildcat sensor, displays and avionics systems. The LMM provides a step-change in capability for the Royal Navy which, in the maritime environment, faces a major challenge in engaging smaller, fast-moving, asymmetric threats, due to their high mobility, their small thermal and radar signatures and the severe background clutter encountered. The LMM is capable of surmounting these issues where traditional electro-optic and radar guidance systems do not provide the certainty of hit required.

On-board the AW159 Wildcat platform, the LMM Martlet could also allow operators to engage air targets such as UAVs and other maritime helicopters. The launchers are mounted to the AW159 via the new Leonardo Weapon Wing, developed at the Companys design and manufacturing facility in Yeovil and first trialled last year. Each weapon wing will be able to carry either ten Martlet or two Sea Venom missiles and generates additional lift for the helicopter in forward flight, reducing demands on the main rotor.

The twin-engine multi-role AW159 is able to conduct missions ranging from constabulary to high end warfighting where it has the capability to autonomously detect, identify and attack targets on land and at sea, including submarine threats. The high-performance platform has state-of-the-art systems, including a Leonardo Seaspray multi-mode electronically-scanning (E-scan) radar, and integrated electronic warfare Defensive Aids Suite (DAS).

Leonardo and Thales announced 26 May 2020 the first successful firings of the Thales Martlet Lightweight Multirole Missile (LMM) from Leonardos AW159 Wildcat helicopter. The firings were conducted as part of the UK MoDs Future Anti-Surface Guided Weapon (FASGW) programme and demonstrated the integration of the Martlet onto the AW159 platform. This represents a major milestone for the programme and will enable this high-end capability to enter service with the Royal Navy later this year.

The firing trials were conducted from 27th April to 21st May 2020 and despite the current COVID-19 situation, Leonardo and Thales were able to support the UK Ministry of Defence by completing this critical activity. All of the teams involved had to adopt strict distancing procedures, in some cases having to find new ways of working, in order to make sure that the trials could go ahead. It is a testimony to the professionalism of those involved that these trials were successfully completed under such challenging and novel circumstances.

This major milestone demonstrates that the combination of the AW159 Wildcat and Martlet missile will be a flexible and effective tool for the Royal Navy. Next year the Wildcat fleet will embark on Carrier Strike Group missions with HMS Queen Elizabeth on its maiden operational deployment. As the only British company to design and manufacture helicopters on-shore, were extremely proud to be equipping the UK Armed Forces with world-beating sovereign capabilities. said Nick Whitney, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters (UK).

The successful live firings of the Thales LMM Martlet from the AW159 Wildcat is a key milestone in the programme, delivering a significant step-change in capability for the platform. LMM Martlet will ensure that the Wildcat has the best-in-class offensive capability to protect HMS Queen Elizabeth and her task group during her maiden operational deployment next year. With each platform capable of carrying up to 20 Martlet, the Wildcats deployed with the task group will be a significant deterrent to anyone wishing to interfere with UK interests. said Philip McBride, General Manager, Integrated Airspace-protection Systems, Thales UK.

On 02 March 2025, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a deal to allow Ukraine the use 1.6 billion of UK Export Finance to purchase more than 5,000 Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM). The deal would support 700 existing jobs at the Thales factory in Belfast. This represented the largest contract ever received by Thales in Belfast and the second largest MOD had placed with Thales, building on a previous contract with Thales, signed in September 2024 for 650 missiles at a cost of 162m for 650 LMM missiles. The first batch of missiles were delivered in December 2024, and this new contract would continue deliveries.

The deal called for Thales Northern Ireland to deliver the contract - worth an initial 1.16bn with the potential for around a further 500m of work to be added - in collaboration with a Ukrainian industry partner, which would manufacture launchers and command and control vehicles for the missiles in Ukraine. The contract was placed by the MOD's procurement arm Defence Equipment & Support on behalf of the Ukrainian Government, to be funded by a loan underwritten by United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) after a deal signed the previous year to allow Ukraine to draw on 3.5bn worth of support from UKEF to spend with UK industry.





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China's public security ministry firmly opposes U.S. threat of additional tariff hike

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 09:12, March 01, 2025

BEIJING, Feb. 28 (Xinhua) -- A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Public Security on Friday voiced firm opposition to the U.S. threat of imposing an additional 10 percent tariff on Chinese exports.

The spokesperson made the remarks in response to a media inquiry on the United States' threatened tariff hike, which would be in effect from March 4 and cited fentanyl issues as the cause.

Once again, the United States is using the fentanyl issue as a pretext to impose tariffs on Chinese goods, the spokesperson said.

China has some of the strictest and most thoroughly enforced anti-drug policies in the world, and it actively engages in international cooperation on drug control.

China has provided support to the United States in addressing the fentanyl issue out of humanitarian goodwill and has achieved significant results, according to the spokesperson.

The spokesperson noted that the root cause of the U.S. fentanyl crisis lies within the country itself, adding that reducing domestic drug demand and strengthening law enforcement cooperation are the fundamental solutions.

The U.S. side ignores objective facts and fails to address the core issue of drug demand while shifting blame onto other countries. This approach does not contribute to solving the problem and will severely impact China-U.S. cooperation on drug control, the spokesperson said.

The Chinese side urges the U.S. side to correct its wrongful actions, preserve the hard-won progress in bilateral anti-drug cooperation, and return to the right path that benefits the people of both nations.

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Three Chinese Type 055 large destroyers train in different sea regions, demonstrate tactical flexibility: expert

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun Published: Mar 02, 2025 04:09 PM Updated: Mar 03, 2025 01:02 AM

Three Type 055 destroyers of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy have been recently conducting separate training exercises in the Yellow Sea, South Pacific, and South China Sea. Experts called the Type 055 the world's best destroyer in terms of comprehensive capabilities, and multiple ships of this class offer the PLA Navy tactical flexibilities in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and interests.

The Type 055 large destroyer Nanchang affiliated with a destroyer detachment of the navy of the PLA Northern Theater Command recently conducted a high intensity, multi-course combat exercise in the Yellow Sea independently, the PLA Navy revealed in a social media post in its official WeChat account on Sunday.

According to the PLA Navy, the Nanchang conducted live-fire drills covering sea attacks, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and nuclear defense during the exercise.

The Nanchang is not the only Type 055 large destroyer that has recently conducted exercises. According to the website of Australia's defense department on Sunday, a PLA Navy task group consisting of the Type 055 large destroyer Zunyi, the Type 054A frigate Hengyang and the Type 903 replenishment vessel Weishanhu operated approximately 570 nautical miles southeast of Perth.

A recent China Central Television (CCTV) report confirmed that the Zunyi and the other two vessels recently conducted combat exercises featuring multiple courses including replenishment at sea and live-fire shooting in the Pacific Ocean.

In another exercise, staged in the South China Sea, multiple vessels including the Chaganhu and Qinghaihu supply ships recently conducted comprehensive combat support drills, CCTV reported on Tuesday.

The report footage showed that a third Type 055 large destroyer, the Yan'an, participated in the exercise, receiving replenishment from one of the supply ships.

China State Shipbuilding Corporation Limited (CSSC), the maker of the Type 055, introduced some of the technical details of the warship in a social media post on Weibo on February 24.

The Type 055 large destroyer has a displacement of about 13,000 tons, is equipped with AESA (active electronically scanned array) and X-band radars, integrated radio frequency system, as well as a 112-cell missile vertical launch system capable of hosting YJ-21 "carrier killer" missiles, HQ-9B air defense missiles, alongside anti-missile and anti-submarine systems, CSSC said.

China now has a total of eight Type 055 large destroyers, and there could be additional Type 055s in the making with significantly expanded capabilities, according to the post by CSSC.

Shi Hong, executive chief editor of the Shipborne Weapons magazine, told the Global Times that the Type 055 is considered the world's best large destroyer in terms of comprehensive capabilities.

Multiple Type 055 large destroyers in active service enhance the PLA Navy's tactical flexibility, as this type of warship can serve as both aircraft carrier escorts and command ships for flotillas.

Echoing Shi and calling the Type 055 a warship at the world's top level, Zhang Junshe, a Chinese military affairs expert, told the Global Times that the vessel plays vital roles in the safeguard of national sovereignty, security and interests.

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Iran will change military tactics, techniques based on threats: Top Cmdr.

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 March 2025 6:39 PM

A senior Iranian commander says the country will change its military techniques and tactics in response to evolving threats.

Commander of the Iranian Army's Air Defense Force Brigadier General Alireza Sabahi-Fard said on Saturday that enemies and aggressors are not able to reach Iran's skies.

"Changes in techniques and tactics are on the agenda proportionately to current threats," Sabahi-Fard told senior commanders and managers of the Air Defense Force.

He added that changes in Iran's techniques and tactics will certainly confuse enemies, noting that the country's Air Defense Force is pursuing this approach.

Pointing to plans to promote the force's capabilities, he added, "The power of our country is currently a thorn in the side of the enemies."

During the Army's Zolfaghar 1403 joint military maneuvers in the country's south last month, the Iranian Army's 15 Khordad air defense system and offensive Arash drone have successfully intercepted and destroyed mock hostile targets.

Observers say the operation showcased Iran's advancements in drone technology and its ability to carry out long-range strikes with a high level of accuracy, further cementing the country's growing military capabilities in the region.

These maneuvers, which are designed to simulate real-world combat scenarios, continue to underscore the Islamic Republic of Iran's air defense readiness and its commitment to maintaining a robust and integrated defense network to safeguard its national security, they note.





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IRGC Navy attains self-sufficiency, will give crushing response to any threat: Commander

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 March 2025 4:52 PM

The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy reaffirms its unwavering stance on defending Iran's sovereignty, warning that it will give a decisive and firm response to any threat.

"The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps Navy, relying on knowledge-based capacities and the abilities of domestic specialists, has reached a level of power that it will respond decisively and forcefully to any threat," Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri said on Saturday.

He pointed to the strategic position of three Persian Gulf Iranian islands -- Abu Musa, the Greater and Lesser Tunbs - and emphasized that they will always remain an integral part of Iran's territory.

The IRGC commander added that Iran maintains dominance over the strategic Strait of Hormuz through these islands, which are the entrance and exit routes of the Persian Gulf.

The Persian Gulf has 19 strategic islands and holds a unique position in Iran's maritime security, Tangsiri said.

He noted that Iran has vast oil and gas resources in the Persian Gulf and is duty-bound to defend "this national wealth."

He said enemies have always sought to harm Iran and made efforts to dominate energy resources in the Persian Gulf but the Islamic Republic relies on its domestic capabilities and is no longer dependent on foreigners.

Iran will continue to move in the path of strength and progress and will not allow enemies to carry out the slightest act of aggression against the country's maritime borders, Tangsiri pointed out.

He emphasized that the IRGC Navy plays a major role in maintaining security in the region, saying, "We are no longer dependent on any foreign power and are meeting all our defense requirements by relying on domestic capabilities."

Iranian Armed Forces, including the IRGC and the country's Army, have been continuously enhancing their military hardware and combat readiness in line with the directives of Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

The forces have vowed to defend the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of the threats by the Iranian nation's enemies.

Late in January, the IRGC naval forces successfully fired the Qaem and Almas missiles equipped with artificial intelligence by advanced Mohajer 6 and Ababil 5 drones, destroying mock enemy targets.

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President acknowledges he shifted position on negotiating with the U.S. to match Leader's stance

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

Tehran, IRNA - President Masoud Pezeshkian says he is committed to the position outlined by Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei regarding negotiations with Washington even though his own view was initially different.

"I believed that it would be better to engage in dialogue, but the Leader of the Revolution stated that we will not negotiate with the United States, and I also declared that we will not negotiate with the United States," Pezeshkian said while attending an open session of Parliament on Sunday.

"However, we must find appropriate ways to resolve problems," he said.

He reiterated that while he remains an advocate of dialogue, he will firmly adhere to the position set by the Leader.

"I may hold a belief, but when the Leader of the Revolution determines a direction, we must adjust ourselves accordingly and find the right path within that framework," he added.

During a speech on February 7, Ayatollah Khamenei said that Iran was open to negotiations with all countries, adding, "The only exception here is America. Of course, we don't count the Israeli regime as an exception  because that regime is not a government to begin with and is rather a criminal and land-usurping gang."

"Some pretend that if we sit at the negotiating table, it would solve certain problems, but the reality that we must correctly understand is that negotiations with the U.S. do not have any effect on solving the country's problems," he said.

Echoing the Leader's remarks, President Pezeshkian said days later that the United States didn't intend to engage in negotiations with Iran and rather wanted Iran to submit to its will.

"They are not after negotiations," he said. "They want us to be submissive to them. But we won't be made submissive."

4354**9417**4482

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Iran's foreign policy focuses on ties with neighboring nations: Official

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 2, 2025

Tehran, IRNA - Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Majid Takht-e-Ravanchi says that neighbors have a special place in Iran's foreign policy.

"Through friendship and cooperation, we can build a better and more prosperous future for our region," wrote Takht-e-Ravanchi on his X account on Sunday, formerly known as Twitter, following his visit to the United Arab Emirates.

"Just returned from Abu Dhabi where I had a long and fruitful meeting with @LanaNusseibeh, DFM of UAE, within the context of the first round of political consultations between the two countries," the official said.

He also said that he had met with Khalifa Shaheen, the State Secretary of Foreign Affairs, and Anwar Gargash, the Diplomatic Advisor to the President.

Takht-e-Ravanchi said that the Emirati officials expressed their eagerness to expand relations, particularly in the economic field.

7129**9417

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Vice-President Zarif has resigned: Sources

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Mar 3, 2025

Iran's Vice-President for Strategic Affairs Mohammad-Javad Zarif has tendered his resignation to President Masoud Pezeshkian, IRNA has learned.

Sources close to the administration told IRNA late on Sunday that Zarif has already handed over his letter of resignation to Pezeshkian, but the president has not yet made a decision.

No official statement has yet been issued.

4194**4482

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Israel threatens to attack city near Syria's capital

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 March 2025 11:41 PM

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the regime's military to prepare for potential further military aggression against Syria, claiming that the Druze population in the city of Jaramana, near the Syrian capital Damascus, is "under threat."

In a statement, Netanyahu and the regime's minister for military affairs Israel Katz warned of Israeli "retaliation" if the Druze community was "harmed," pledging "full support" for them inside Syria.

Shortly after the threats, local Syrian sources reported hearing explosions in Jaramana, with a reporter for the new Syrian administration's broadcasting service alleging taking place of clashes around the al-Karama Square in the city.

According to Lt. Col. Hossam Al-Tahhan, Damascus countryside's "Security Chief," an incident at a Jaramana checkpoint escalated when the administration's military forces were reportedly "stopped, disarmed, beaten, and fired upon."

One soldier was killed, while another was wounded and briefly taken captive, the official added.

Armed militants later stormed the local police station, seizing weapons and expelling officers, he claimed, saying mediation efforts eventually led to the captive's release.

It, however, was not immediately clear whether the explosion had been caused by the purported clashes or had resulted from a staged attack against the city.

Netanyahu's threats come amid broader Israeli aggression against Syria.

In 2011, the Israeli regime began backing up Takfiri terrorist groups and intensifying its deadly aggression against Syria as a means of trying to oust the Arab country's democratically-elected government of Bashar al-Assad, which had consistently proven an opponent of Tel Aviv's regional aggression.

Late last year, the regime ramped up its attacks across the Syrian territory even further, claiming that it sought to prevent violence inside Syria from spilling over into the occupied territories.

Israeli forces even entered the United Nations-demarcated buffer zone between Syria and the occupied Palestinian territories in the country's Tel Aviv-occupied Golan Heights in a move that was condemned by the UN.

Most recently, the regime launched deadly air raids near Damascus International Airport and other regions, drawing widespread condemnation from Arab nations, including Iraq and Egypt.

The Israeli regime, though, continues to try to justify its military operations against Syria under the pretext of "security concerns."

The Israeli premier's rhetoric on Jaramana also follows his recent call for "demilitarization" of southern Syria, a move widely rejected by Syrians who view it as a violation of their country's sovereignty.

Large-scale protests erupted across Syria following the remarks, with demonstrators condemning Tel Aviv's military adventurism and reaffirming their support for Syria's territorial integrity.

The Israeli regime has, meanwhile, been reportedly exerting pressure on the United States, its biggest ally, to ensure that Syria remained "weak and divided," with Russia maintaining its military presence in the Arab country.

One way to stop Damascus from regaining its strength is to let Russia keep its military bases in the country, four sources familiar with the efforts were cited in a report by Reuters as saying.

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Israeli occupation of Golan Heights destabilizes security: UN Human Rights official

Iran Press TV

Saturday, 01 March 2025 3:11 PM

A spokesman for the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) says continued Israeli occupation of the strategic Golan Heights destabilizes the security situation in Syria.

Thameen al-Kheetan said Israel violates the 1974 Disengagement Agreement with Syria by occupying areas beyond the so-called buffer zone, and it intends to "double the population of settlers in the Occupied Golan Heights."

He noted that Israeli occupation and schemes "undermine Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity and can potentially further destabilize an already fragile security situation," the spokesman said.

Militant factions, led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, toppled Bashar al-Assad's government on December 8, 2024.

Since then, the Israeli military has been launching airstrikes against military installations, facilities, and arsenals belonging to Syria's now-defunct army.

Israel has been widely and vehemently condemned over the termination of the 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria, and exploiting the chaos in the Arab nation in the wake of Assad's downfall to make a land grab.

The buffer zone in the occupied Golan Heights was created by the United Nations after the 1973 Arab-Israeli War. A UN force of about 1,100 troops has patrolled the area since then.

UAE strongly condemns Israeli attacks on Syria

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strongly condemned Israeli attacks on the Syrian territory, reaffirming its commitment to the Arab nation's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that Abu Dhabi denounces the attacks as a violation of international law, particularly the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Israel and Syria.

The ministry emphasized that such actions flout established legal frameworks and aggravate regional instability.

The UAE reiterated its categorical rejection of any act that escalates tensions and undermines efforts to secure peace in the region.

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Taiwan condemns China for undermining Palau ties with crime activities

ROC Central News Agency

03/02/2025 06:11 PM

Taipei, March 2 (CNA) Taiwan's government has condemned China's ongoing attempts to sabotage Taiwan's diplomatic ties with Palau through alleged illicit activities by criminal organizations there, following a recent think tank report that made public such efforts.

In a statement Sunday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said it has noticed that the People's Republic of China (PRC) has used Chinese businesspersons and/or criminal organizations with Chinese backgrounds to infiltrate Palau for many years under the guise of land development and investments.

MOFA said those criminal rings are allegedly engaging in money laundering, gambling and fraud and other illicit activities to economically infiltrate and coerce Palau, for which MOFA issued a "stern condemnation."

MOFA was responding to a CNA request for comment on an American think tank's recent warning that China is using transnational criminal organizations to advance its political agenda in Palau, which it said could undermine Taiwan's diplomatic ties with the country.

In the recent report, Pacific Economics said transnational criminal organizations have been making investments in Palau, which is but one of the tactics being used by China to exert influence on the island nation.

A Palau media outlet, the Island Times, cited the report as warning that the infiltration of criminal enterprises into Palau's economy could deter legitimate investors, damaging the country's investment reputation and tourism industry.

PRC-affiliated projects seeking to secure land and infrastructure could also undermine Palau's sovereignty and disrupt its strategic role in the Pacific, the think tank said, according to the Island Times.

Jarod Baker, co-founder of Pacific Economics, told CNA on Saturday that while Palau formally recognizes Taiwan and does not adhere to the "one China" policy, criminal organizations can help Beijing fill the gaps in areas where China's foreign ministry's efforts might fall short.

"[The crime syndicates] are used to covertly bring in money, people and other elements," he said.

One example Pacific Economics cited in its report was the Prince Group, a Chinese-Cambodian conglomerate founded by Chinese businessman Chen Zhi ().

The group has been implicated in money laundering, online scams and human trafficking, drawing scrutiny from both the Chinese government and Radio Free Asia, according to Pacific Economics.

The Prince Group has proposed resort investments in Palau of over US$1 billion, the report said. Similarly, many recent hotel investments in Palau have ties to China, the think tank said.

In its statement, MOFA contrasted Taiwan's engagement with Palau against China's, saying it has worked closely with Palau by encouraging Taiwanese businesses to invest in the Pacific ally, boosting "more prosperous development of Palauan businesses."

Palau is one of 12 countries around the world that maintain diplomatic relations with Taipei instead of Beijing.

Palau President Surangel Whipps, Jr., who began his second term in January, has been supportive of Taiwan since he first took office in 2021 and has repeatedly accused China of pressuring Palau to switch sides by weaponizing tourism.

(By Yang Chun-huei, Chao Yen-hsiang and Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ls

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Expert urges Taiwan, Philippines, Australia to team up on security

ROC Central News Agency

03/02/2025 03:39 PM

Taipei, March 2 (CNA) A Taipei-based defense expert has warned that China is increasingly seeking to project its power in the southern flank of the first island chain and urged Taiwan to beef up cooperation with the Philippines and Australia to defend it.

The appeal, made by Huang Chung-ting (), a researcher with the military-funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research, came after the People's Liberation Army (PLA) held live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand last week.

PLA warships traveled to the Tasman Sea after passing through waters south of the Philippines and conducted live-fire exercises there on Feb. 21 and 22 without notifying the two Oceanic countries in advance, drawing concerns from their leaders.

Given the importance of the waterways used by the PLA warships to global trade, including Taiwan's imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), PLA control of those routes and blocking LNG carriers could deal a huge blow to Taiwan, Huang argued in an analysis posted on Feb. 27.

Having Taiwan strengthen intelligence-sharing with the Philippines, in particular with the Western Mindanao Command, and with Australia, would be advisable, Huang argued, to confront the possible emergence of military confrontation in this region.

That sharing of intelligence should complement Taiwan's existing intelligence sharing operations with its two biggest allies in the region, Japan and the United States, he said.

The first island chain starts from Japan and extends southbound to Ryukyu Islands, Taiwan, the Philippines, and Malaysia.

Conceptually these islands and nations form the first line of defense against China in the U.S. strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific region, with Taiwan sitting in a key location in the chain.

Australia and New Zealand represent part of the third island chain, but in his analysis, Huang said the PLA drills in the Tasman Strait were diverting attention from China's threat in the southern part of the first island chain, to Taiwan's detriment.

Huang said the route sailed by PLA warships to the Tasman Sea for the drills, which included passing through the Philippines' Mindoro Strait and the Basilan Strait from the South China Sea, "broke through" the southern part of the first island chain.

This followed a sustained deployment in the region since the spring of 2024, Huang said, enabled in part by the completion of major infrastructure on South China Sea atolls, allowing China to significantly expand its overseas military footprint.

These projections of power all reflect the PLA's attempt to take control of the Sulu Sea between the Philippines and Malaysia in an attempt to contain the U.S.' presence in the region, Huang contended.

They also showed the PLA's desire to secure an alternative sea lane to the Malacca Strait in case a war breaks out in the region as well as develop the ability to threaten the sea lanes Taiwan depends on for energy imports, Huang said.

Taiwan imports 98 percent of its LNG, and if the PLA were to control these key sea lanes, Taiwan's war time resilience could be seriously undermined as around 60 percent of its total LNG imports come from Australia, Papua New Guinea and Indonesia via the southern part of the first island chain, Huang said.

Should the PLA be able to harass or block LNG carriers at that chokepoint as part of an offensive against Taiwan, Beijing could hurt the morale of Taiwan's people and the credibility of its government without having to blockade or isolate Taiwan, Huang said.

Stepping up intelligence exchanges with the Philippines and Australia would put greater emphasis on the issue of the "backyard become the front line," Huang concluded.

(By Joseph Yeh)

Enditem/ls

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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025/03/02

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Date:

6 a.m. Mar. 1(Sat.) to 6 a.m. Mar. 2(Sun.) (UTC+8)

2. PLA activities:

11 sorties of PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN ships and 3 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 5 out of 11 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's central, southwestern and southeastern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities.

1140302_PLA activities

1140302_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan

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PM meeting with Prime Minister Meloni of Italy: 2 March 2025

The Prime Minister met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Downing Street this morning.

2 March 2025

The Prime Minister met Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Downing Street this morning, their third meeting since July. The meeting came ahead of the Prime Minister convening international leaders in London today to discuss how partners can work with the USA to move forward to a lasting peace for a sovereign Ukraine. They agreed on the importance of the transatlantic alliance in confronting shared challenges.

They had a warm and constructive discussion, agreeing the strength of the UK-Italy relationship is as vital now as it has ever been. They reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, agreeing that the UK and Italy will stand with them for as long as it takes.

The two leaders acknowledged positive progress made since their last meeting in joint working to tackle irregular migration. They agreed secure borders are a bedrock of a secure economy. They noted the significance of recent successful joint operations to disrupt smuggling gangs and agreed there is greater opportunity to disrupt gangs upstream at source when countries work together. They will strengthen cooperation to share intelligence and data, such as through Europol. The Prime Ministers committed to continue to work closely together in these areas.

The two Prime Ministers committed to staying in close contact to take today's discussion forward at pace.

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer to host leaders summit on Ukraine

The Prime Minister will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international leaders at a summit in London today [2 March 2025].

1 March 2025

The Prime Minister will intensify his efforts in pursuit of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine by convening international leaders at a summit in London today.

The Prime Minister has this weekend reiterated his unwavering support for Ukraine and is determined to find a way forward that brings an end to Russia's illegal war and guarantees Ukraine a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security.

The summit rounds off a week of intense diplomacy for the Prime Minister, which has seen him raise UK defence spending and travel to Washington D.C. for productive talks with President Trump in support of UK and European security. The Prime Minister spoke again with both President Trump and President Zelenskyy on Friday evening following the events of yesterday at the Presidents' meeting in Washington D.C.

The Prime Minister will welcome Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Downing Street this morning, before being joined at the summit in central London by the leaders of Ukraine, France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, Czechia and Romania. The Turkish Foreign Minister, NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the European Commission and European Council will also attend.

The Prime Minister has been clear that there can be no negotiations about Ukraine without Ukraine, a determination he reiterated when he warmly welcomed President Zelenskyy to Downing Street on Saturday evening ahead of the summit.

Discussions at the summit will focus on:

Strengthening Ukraine's position now - including ongoing military support and increased economic pressure on Russia.

The need for a strong lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace in Ukraine and ensures that Ukraine is able to deter and defend against future Russian attack.

Next steps on planning for strong security guarantees.

Following the announcement earlier this week that the UK will spend 2.5% of its GDP on defence by 2027, the Prime Minister will be clear on the need for Europe to play its part on defence and step up for the good of collective security.

The UK has already been clear it is willing to support Ukraine's future security with troops on the ground.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

Three years on from Russia's brutal invasion of Ukraine, we are at a turning point. Today I will reaffirm my unwavering support for Ukraine and double down on my commitment to provide capacity, training and aid to Ukraine, putting it in the strongest possible position. In partnership with our allies, we must intensify our preparations for the European element of security guarantees, alongside continued discussions with the United States. We have an opportunity to come together to ensure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine that secures their sovereignty and security. Now is the time for us to unite in order to guarantee the best outcome for Ukraine, protect European security, and secure our collective future.

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Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Sir Keir Starmer

Prime Minister of Canada - Justin Trudeau

March 2, 2025

London, United Kingdom

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, on the margins of the Securing our Future Summit in London, United Kingdom, where European partners and Canada met to discuss security for Europe and Ukraine.

The leaders discussed the importance of a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. They underscored that Ukraine must be part of any negotiations for a peace deal as well as the need for robust security guarantees.

Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Starmer highlighted the close relationship between Canada and the United Kingdom, founded on deep historical links, common values, and strong economic relations. They agreed to stay in close contact.

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Standing united in support of Ukraine

Prime Minister of Canada - Justin Trudeau

March 2, 2025

London, United Kingdom

For over three years, Ukraine has fought with extraordinary courage and resilience against Russia's illegal, full-scale invasion. This ongoing aggression is not only a violation of Ukraine's sovereignty, but also a direct attack on the rules-based international order, freedom, and democracy everywhere. Canada remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine and its people as they continue to defend their independence.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today participated in the Securing our Future Summit in London, United Kingdom. Hosted by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer, the Summit brought together Euro-Atlantic and NATO leaders to promote unity, reinforce collective security, and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Ukraine in the face of Russia's continued aggression.

During the Securing our Future Summit, the Prime Minister announced new sanctions against 10 individuals and 21 entities, including paramilitary organizations and their leaders, to help counter Russia's reliance on third-party organizations and countries to advance its political and military objectives in Ukraine. To date, Canada has imposed sanctions on over 3,000 individuals and entities complicit in Russia's aggression - and we remain committed to working with our partners to increase economic pressure on Russia.

Throughout the Summit, the Prime Minister engaged with his counterparts on the future of international support for Ukraine, emphasizing the urgent need for continued and co-ordinated action in the face of growing global instability and uncertainty. Together, the leaders agreed that there can be no sustainable peace in Europe without security for Ukraine, that any peaceful end to the conflict must include Ukraine at the negotiating table, and that any peace deal should include robust security guarantees.

At a plenary session, Prime Minister Trudeau underlined that strengthening security and stability in Ukraine and the Euro-Atlantic region will remain a top priority for Canada, including as part of our G7 Presidency this year. He underscored our leadership in supporting Ukraine since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, which includes almost $20 billion in multifaceted assistance ranging from military aid - such as armoured vehicles and drone technology - to humanitarian and financial assistance to help Ukraine rebuild and recover.

The Prime Minister highlighted the ongoing work of members of the Canadian Armed Forces in the United Kingdom and Poland under Operation UNIFIER. Since 2015, they have provided military training to over 44,000 Ukrainian troops. Canada continues to engage closely with Ukraine, Allies, and partners on how best to enhance support through Operation UNIFIER to help Ukraine defend itself.

Prime Minister Trudeau also emphasized the importance of standing together to hold Russia accountable for its violations of international law, including war crimes, crimes against humanity, and the illegal deportation of Ukrainian children.

Canada's commitment to Ukraine is unwavering. We will continue to stand with Ukraine and work closely with our Allies to provide the necessary military, economic, and humanitarian support to push back against Russian aggression. We are stronger when we work together. And together, we can ensure Ukraine is able to defend itself, rebuild, and secure a just and lasting peace.

Quote

"Ukraine's fight for sovereignty is a fight for freedom and democracy everywhere. The important discussions we had today reinforced our shared resolve: as Allies, we will remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine. Canada will be there for Ukraine until there is a just and lasting peace. Slava Ukraini!" The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

In London, the Prime Minister held a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Sir Keir Starmer. Before returning to Canada tomorrow, he will also have an audience with His Majesty King Charles III.

The new sanctions announced today include nine leaders of post-Wagner paramilitary organizations, one member of the affiliated senior Russian military leadership, nine paramilitary organizations operating in Ukraine and in the Kremlin's Africa-network, and 12 affiliated organizations that are responsible for resource extraction within this network.

Since the beginning of 2022, Canada has committed almost $20 billion in multifaceted support to Ukraine. This includes: Over $12.4 billion in direct financial assistance, the highest in the G7 on a per capita basis. $4.5 billion in military assistance, such as M777 howitzers, Leopard 2 main battle tanks, armoured combat support vehicles, hundreds of thousands of rounds of ammunition, high-resolution drone cameras, thermal clothing, body armour, fuel, and more. $585 million in development assistance, including support to Ukraine's energy system. $372.2 million in humanitarian assistance, including support for emergency health interventions, protection services, and essentials such as shelter, water, sanitation, and food. Programming also addresses child protection, mental health support, and prevention and response to sexual and gender-based violence. Nearly $225 million in security and stabilization assistance.

As announced by the Prime Minister in Kyiv last month, Canada has started delivering on its commitment of a $5 billion contribution toward the G7 Extraordinary Revenue Acceleration (ERA) Loans mechanism. Launched at last year's G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy, the ERA Loans aim to bring forward future revenues from frozen Russian sovereign assets to provide Ukraine with approximately US$50 billion in additional funding as it continues to defend its freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

In February 2024, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Zelenskyy signed the historic Agreement on Security Cooperation between Canada and Ukraine, establishing a new strategic security partnership between our two countries. This included $3.02 billion in critical financial and military support to Ukraine for 2024.

Launched by Canada and Ukraine in 2024, the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children co-ordinates joint efforts and co-operation between Ukraine and partner states to address the issue of the unlawful deportation and forced transfer of Ukrainian children by Russia. To date, 41 states and the Council of Europe have joined the Coalition, helping successfully facilitate the safe return of over 1,000 children.

As part of the 2024 Fall Economic Statement, the federal government announced last year its intention to double down on our efforts to support Ukraine, including through proposed legislative changes that will ensure profits from frozen Russian assets are used to rebuild Ukraine.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Canada has welcomed more than 220,000 Ukrainians. We are helping Ukrainian families find a safe, temporary home and have put support services in place for their arrival. This includes temporary financial assistance and access to federally funded settlement services, such as language training and employment-related services.

Canada and Ukraine have long been steadfast partners and close friends. In 1991, Canada became the first Western country to recognize Ukraine's independence. Today, 1.3 million people of Ukrainian descent call Canada home - the largest Ukrainian diaspora in the Western world. In 2022, total bilateral trade between our two countries was valued at over $421 million.

This was Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's 11th official visit to the United Kingdom.

Canada and the United Kingdom share a strong relationship rooted in deep historical ties and common values. We work closely together to advance shared priorities, including sustainable growth, rules-based international trade, gender equality, the fight against climate change, democracy and media freedom, and support for Ukraine.

In 2023, the United Kingdom was Canada's third-largest destination for goods and services exports, with trade valued at $47 billion.

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Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna: The next step should be a coalition of the willing to give military aid and security guarantees to Ukraine

Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

02.03.2025

The video meeting of the Baltic States and the United Kingdom held this morning and the messages coming from London affirm that a critical majority of Europe thinks like we do.

The next step should be the Europe-led formation of a coalition of the willing made up of countries that will ensure continued military aid to Ukraine and develop strong security guarantees. This means that these countries and Ukraine will contribute to a lasting and just peace.

Our shared goal is a lasting and just peace, and to achieve it, Europe must make a greater effort and take its steps more quickly than it has so far. The obstacle to peace is Putin and his continued aggression; our pressure must target the aggressor and our support must go to the victim of the aggression. It is only when Putin realises that time is not working in his favour that credible negotiations can begin.

We welcome the leadership of the UK and France in developing the security guarantees offered to Ukraine and we would like to reiterate - Estonia is ready to be an active participant in these discussions. We are convinced that a lasting peace requires that convincing international security guarantees ensuring Ukraine's security, economic development, and political stability take effect immediately after the end of active hostilities. NATO and European Union memberships take time; however, the guarantees are needed immediately and therefore, it is timely to develop them.

The discussions in London align with Estonia's view that Europe should shoulder most of the burden of the security guarantees offered to Ukraine, while the participation of the USA is also necessary. We welcome the message from London that European countries would continue efforts to include the United States.

We also welcome the message stated in London that military aid to Ukraine must be increased immediately and the delivery of this aid must be expedited. We also consider it crucial that Europe continues raising the cost of the aggression for Russia by ramping up sanctions and mobilising frozen assets. I am expecting concrete decisions to that effect from next week's European Council."

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European leaders gather in haste following Trump-Zelensky row

Global Times

Transatlantic alliance risks changing from shared values to transaction-based: expert

By Fan Anqi Published: Mar 02, 2025 10:56 PM

After a White House meeting with US President Donald Trump that descended into a row between the two leaders, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received a much warmer welcome in Europe, as he arrived in London to attend a summit hosted by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that showed support for Kiev.

Although the summit's agenda will focus on the Ukraine crisis, Western countries, still shocked over the fierce clash in White House, are reeling not only because of the battlefield and Europe's security future, but also the painful realization that under US' "America First" approach, the transatlantic alliance is under risk of changing from one of shared values to a transactional relationship, Chinese observers said.

Starmer said on Sunday that Britain, France and Ukraine have agreed to work on a cease-fire plan to present to the US, which emerged after talks among the four countries' leaders following Zelensky's Oval Office blowout with Trump, AP reported. The prime minister repeated his assertion that American security guarantees will be needed to make it stick.

The Sunday summit hosted by Starmer includes leaders from France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic and Romania. The Turkish foreign minister, NATO secretary-general and the presidents of the European Commission and European Council are set to attend, per the AP report.

Zelensky arrived in London on Saturday and was greeted by Starmer at 10 Downing Street. Starmer expressed his country's "absolute determination" to stand with Zelensky and achieve "a lasting peace for Ukraine based on sovereignty and security for Ukraine," The New York Times reported.

The two sides signed a 2.26 billion pound ($2.84 billion) loan for Ukrainian military supplies that will be repaid using profits from frozen Russian assets, the BBC reported.

In the White House shouting match on Friday local time, Trump lashed out at Zelensky, accusing him of not being "thankful" enough for US military aid. "You're gambling with World War III," Trump told Zelensky

One US reporter even questioned, "Why don't you wear a suit?" and accused Zelensky of disrespecting the occasion.

Zelensky was asked to leave the White House without signing a deal with the US that would have given the US significant access to develop Ukraine's valuable minerals.

US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, who was in the Oval Office during the meeting, compared the Ukrainian leader to an "ex-girlfriend," who "wants to argue everything that you said nine years ago, rather than moving the relationship forward," Waltz said.

Lu Xiang, an expert on US studies and research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that while the original plan was to discuss the mineral deal, both sides knew it was just a symbolic negotiation. "One could even say it was 'a child's play' - Trump wanted to show at home that he wasn't getting the short end of the stick, while Zelensky, realizing that the agreement couldn't bring any substantial benefits, proactively stirred up the conflict to display a tough attitude," Lu told the Global Times.

Europe shivering

While it was Zelensky who was grilled by the American leader, it has made the whole of Europe shiver, as many still cannot figure out why the new US administration has turned against them so furiously. "The blowup between the two leaders was the latest sign that Trump was pivoting American foreign policy away from traditional allies," The New York Times reported.

A flurry of messages in support of Ukraine were posted from leaders of multiple European countries, including Germany, France, Spain, Poland and the Netherlands - along with posts from the prime ministers of Canada, Australia and New Zealand - with Zelensky responding directly to each one to thank them for their support, the BBC reported.

French President Emmanuel Macron said he was ready to "open the discussion" on a possible future European nuclear deterrent if Europe wanted to move toward "greater autonomy" in its defense capabilities, France24 reported.

Germany's outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz wrote that "no one wants peace more than the citizens of Ukraine," with his replacement-in-waiting Friedrich Merz adding that "we stand with Ukraine" and "we must never confuse aggressor and victim in this terrible war," per the BBC.

"Europe got used to a transatlantic alliance built on shared values for so long, but Trump's 'America First' approach has completely shifted this dynamic. The approach is moving the alliance from being about shared values to a transactional relationship," Jiang Feng, a professor of European Studies at the Shanghai International Studies University and president of the Shanghai Association of Regional and Country Studies, told the Global Times on Sunday.

Europe now has to face the reality that international politics has entered an era where national interests come first. If Europe does not find a clear interest-driven direction in the current crisis and continues to passively follow the US' direction, it could end up in an even worse situation, Jiang said.

Lu Xiang said the US' "flip-flop" stance on Ukraine in two administrations has eroded trust from its allies. "The Biden administration used tough tactics to coerce Europe into supporting Ukraine. Trump's adjustment is not that he aims to weaken the alliance, but the result is a deeper crack," Lu noted.

The latest episode in the Washington-Kiev spat has ignited heated debates. While most Republicans backed Trump and Vance, some within the party and the Democrats expressed dismay.

Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, a moderate Republican, posted on X on Saturday: "I am sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin." While another GOP Congressman Don Bacon of Nebraska said it was "a bad day for America's foreign policy."

Democrats lambasted the White House. "Trump and Vance are doing Putin's dirty work," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said, and Senator Chris Coons said Zelensky deserved better for "fighting on the front lines of democracy," CNN reported.

Jiang described Trump's "realistic foreign policy" as "a high-risk gamble," noting that as US politics are already deeply divided, the key issue now is whether his policy can bring actual economic benefits to its people. If that succeeds, he will gain support despite opposition. However, if that fails, the US could face more chaos.

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Starmer says UK, France to work with Ukraine on ceasefire plan

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 5:21 PM

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said the governments in London and Paris plan to devise a new ceasefire scheme with Ukraine, taking the lead from the United States on drawing up a plan to "stop the fighting" with Russia.

Starmer said on Sunday that the UK and France will work with Ukraine to draw up the new ceasefire plan which will then be presented to US President Donald Trump for approval.

He described the fresh initiative as "an important step forward" after the ties between Kiev and Washington were severely strained during Friday's public confrontation between the Ukrainian and US presidents.

The fresh initiative came about as the result of Starmer's phone calls and visit to US President Donald Trump, as well as talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, following the "fiasco" in the Oval Office on Friday.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Zelensky should apologize for clashing with Trump in the Oval Office on Friday.

In an interview with CNN, Rubio called on Zelensky to "apologize for turning this thing into the fiasco for him that it became."

The top US diplomat also questioned whether Zelensky wanted to end the Ukraine war that started in February 2022.

Meanwhile, speaking to the BBC in an interview ahead of a crunch international summit on Ukraine on Sunday, Starmer suggested that "possibly a few others" could be involved in drafting the ceasefire plan.

Starmer is set to welcome world leaders in London on Sunday for talks on bolstering European defense.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and more than a dozen countries, including France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, and the Netherlands, have been invited to London to discuss the Ukraine war against Russia.

"No one wants this conflict to go on, least of all the Ukrainians," Starmer told the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg, adding that he believed Trump was also committed to a "lasting peace" in Ukraine.

"President Zelensky is rightly concerned that if there's to be a deal, it has to hold. That's why we've talked extensively about what are the guarantees - in what way do we all defend the deal if that deal is made," he said.

"If there is to be a deal, if there is to be a stopping of the fighting, then that agreement has to be defended, because the worst of all outcomes is that there is a temporary pause and then Putin comes again. That has happened in the past, I think there's a real risk," Starmer went on.

Starmer has previously set three components for a potential ceasefire plan and on Sunday he reiterated that US backing would be one of three essential components in the potential ceasefire plan.

"I've always been clear that that is going to need a US backstop because I don't think it would be a guarantee without it, I don't think it would be a deterrent without it, so the two have to go together," Starmer said.

In the meantime, Starmer has positioned himself as a diplomatic bridge between Europe and the US as efforts to initiate talks over Ukraine's future intensify.

While several European leaders have rallied around Zelensky following Friday's confrontation in the Oval Office, Starmer had been more cautious, speaking with both Zelensky and Trump in the immediate aftermath of their bust-up.

He said on Sunday that he trusted both Zelensky and Trump and insisted that the relationship between the US and the UK continues to be the "closest relationship of any two countries in the world."

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Kremlin: Macron talks of contacting Putin, but not taken any real steps

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 11:31 AM

Dmitry Peskov, the spokesman for the Kremlin, has expressed skepticism regarding French President Emmanuel Macron's readiness to engage in dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Peskov pointed out in a televised interview on Sunday that despite Macron's previous statements, no real steps have been taken to initiate such communication.

Macron has said in several interviews that he has not ruled out the possibility of restoring dialogue with his Russian counterpart.

"He said earlier that he was ready to communicate with Putin. At the same time, no real steps have been taken in this direction," Peskov said.

France, on the contrary, has taken a position to support "continuing the war by any means", Peskov noted.

Given "emerging dynamics in Russian-US relations," time will tell if the European countries will hold their current position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Peskov emphasized.

The "emerging dynamics" of which Peskov has spoken of is the US's efforts to end the conflict in the Ukraine.

To fulfill his campaign promise, US President Donald Trump established contact with Russia and discussed the possibility of peace in a bilateral negotiation in Riyadh on February 16.

The meeting angered both Ukraine and its European allies as neither were invited to the table to present their views.

The US and Russian diplomats also met in Istanbul on February 27 to discuss the possibility of reestablishing their diplomatic missions.

On the anniversary of the conflict, the US even presented a resolution to the UN General Assembly.

The resolution took a very conciliatory tone towards Russia and did not call the country the original aggressor of the conflict.

On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was in Washington to sign a deal that would give 50 percent of the country's oil and rare minerals to the US.

The meeting, however, turned into a heated debate after Zelensky indirectly criticized the foreign policy of the US and Trump.

Vice President JD Vance accused Zelensky of being ungrateful and disrespecting the US in the Oval Office.

After the debate between Trump and Zelensky, Macron supported Zelensky and said that "There is an aggressor, which is Russia, and an attacked people, which is Ukraine."

"We must thank all those who helped, and we must respect those who have been fighting since the beginning," he added.

In response to years of military and political provocations by the US and Western European countries, Russia began its special operations in Ukraine in 2022.

Russia has managed to gain control of a fifth of Ukraine and has been slowly advancing in the east for months.

Ukraine's military, supported by the US and Western European countries, grapples with manpower shortages and tries to hold onto a chunk of territory in western Russia.

Russia has demanded an end to the West's military and political provocations on its borders and Ukraine's permanent neutrality under any peace deal. Ukraine, on the other hand, has demanded Russia's withdrawal from the captured lands and wants NATO membership.

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Zelensky receives warm welcome, $2.8 billion loan from UK's Starmer after Trump spat

Iran Press TV

Sunday, 02 March 2025 7:52 AM

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky received a warm welcome on Saturday from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in addition to a $2.8 billion loan, a day after his meeting with US President Donald Trump turned into a showdown.

Starmer told Zelensky that the British people love the former actor-turned-politician and that he is "very, very welcome here."

"Well, let me just say that you're very, very welcome here in Downing Street, and as you heard from the cheers on the street outside, you have full backing across the United Kingdom," Starmer claimed.

In the US, Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio humiliated Zelensky on Friday, saying the Ukrainian president is gambling with the lives of not only the Ukrainian people, but also the rest of the world, by refusing to accept the Americans' proposed terms for peace with Russia.

Zelensky responded to them, saying he had expected more support from the Americans, claiming he put the Ukrainian servicemen's lives on the line for them.

The meeting came after the Trump administration shocked its Western partners by holding the first high-level US talks with Moscow since the war between Russia and Ukraine broke out just over three years ago.

In Britain, however, Starmer, who has repeatedly vowed to give "unwavering support" to Ukraine, granted Zelensky a hefty loan worth $2.8 billion for the Kiev forces to continue the military campaign against the advancing Russian troops.

Our agreement "will enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and will be repaid using revenues from frozen Russian assets," the Ukrainian president said in a tweet posted on X, formerly Twitter.

"This is true justice - the one who started the war must be the one to pay," Zelensky said.

The money from the loan will be "directed toward weapons production in Ukraine," he added.

Zelensky thanked the UK government for funding a factory in Ukraine to produce weaponry for Ukrainian forces to fight against Russian troops.

Expressing appreciation for the UK government and people for their "tremendous" support since the onset of the war, the president noted his satisfaction "to have such strategic partners and to share the same vision of what a secure future should look like for all."

Zelensky is scheduled to meet with the British monarch, King Charles, at Sandringham on Sunday in a rare and dramatic sign of the royal family's support for the war against Russia.

After the Sunday meeting, Zelensky is scheduled to take part in a summit with leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Commission.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and more than a dozen countries, including France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, and the Netherlands, have been invited to London to discuss the Ukraine war against Russia.

Last month, Vance delivered a divisive speech at a high-level security conference in Munich, Germany, revealing the deep friction among members of NATO.

International affairs experts say Vance's revealing speech at the Munich Security Conference, which was supposed to focus on how to support Kiev in Ukraine's war against Russia, unexpectedly ended Washington's decades-long alliances with European capitals.

After Vance's speech, European leaders started to reflect and confer with one another on the future of transatlantic alliances under Trump's unpredictable leadership.

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Starmer Says 'Time To Act' On Ukraine As Europe At Crossroads

By Ray Furlong reporting from London March 02, 2025

LONDON -- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a four-step plan agreed with European leaders and top representatives of NATO and the EU to support Ukraine and show they remain united in the face of Russia's aggression.

The British leader said it was a "time to act" for Europe in ensuring Ukraine's security, backing up his call at a summit in London on March 2 by pledging 1.6 billion pounds ($2 billion) in export financing to supply 5,000 air defense missiles to Kyiv.

The summit agreed that military aid must continue to flow to Ukraine, that Kyiv must be at the table for peace talks with Russia, that Europe work to deter any future Russian moves against Ukraine, and the formation of a "coalition of the willing" that will defend and guarantee peace in Ukraine after a deal is reached.

"We are at a crossroads in history today," Starmer told a news conference after the summit of 19 leaders from across Europe, Canada, and the NATO military alliance.

"This is not a moment for more talk - it's time to act and unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace," Starmer added.

Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron both said they are ready to deploy their troops on Ukrainian soil to help back up any truce reached between Kyiv and Moscow.

France's Le Figaro newspaper quoted Macron as saying in an interview that the two countries would also propose a one-month "limited" truce "in the air, at sea" as it would be difficult to quickly implement a full peace agreement given the length of the front line running through eastern and southern Ukraine.

The summit assumed fresh urgency following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's disastrous visit to Washington earlier this week and growing concerns over the United States' commitment to European defense under President Donald Trump.

Starmer was quick to point out that he believes Washington remains a "reliable ally" that wants to see a lasting peace agreement to end Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine that is now in its fourth year.

The United States did not participate in the London talks. The summit was planned before Zelenskyy and Trump butted heads in a remarkably tense meeting in the Oval Office on February 28.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were among the European leaders who joined Starmer and Zelenskyy for talks on March 2 at the historic Lancaster House near Buckingham Palace in London.

Prior to the summit, Starmer held bilateral talks with Meloni, who could be an important figure in Europe's ongoing attempts to convince Washington of the need to support Ukraine.

A staunch Ukraine supporter, she is also ideologically close to Trump, who has warmly praised her.

Appearing next to Starmer, Meloni said that London and Rome could "play a key role in bridge-building" after the Oval Office face-off, while adding that it was "very, very important" for Western partners to avoid a schism.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa also attended the summit.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the United States and Europe need to show Russian President Vladimir Putin "that the West has no intention of capitulating before his blackmail and aggression."

On the eve of the conference, Starmer welcomed Zelenskyy at his Downing Street residence, followed by the announcement of a 2.26 billion pound ($2.84 billion) loan to Ukraine to enhance its defensive capabilities.

Zelenskyy said on social media that the loan will be repaid using revenues from frozen Russian assets.

Resuscitating the Trump-Zelenskyy relationship was a key item on the summit's agenda with leaders urging a path to restore the relationship after the U.S. president said Zelenskyy could come back to the White House "when he wants peace."

Von der Leyen said after the meeting that "we're ready together with you [the United States] to defend democracy, to defend the principle that there's a rule of law that you cannot invade your neighbor or you cannot change borders with force."

"It's in our common interest that we prevent future wars," she added.

Zelenskyy has declined to apologize for the U.S. talks breaking down but said he believed the relationship could still be salvaged.

Even before Zelenskyy's trip to Washington, European leaders had demonstrated a growing sense of urgency to make themselves relevant to the Trump administration.

This was spurred by statements from senior U.S. officials suggesting Europe would not be directly involved in Ukraine peace negotiations -- and by signs of warming U.S. ties with Moscow.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused European countries of seeking "a 'continuation of the banquet' in the form of war."

In comments that Russian media reported on March 2, Lavrov praised Trump as "a pragmatist."

"His slogan: common sense," said Lavrov.

Previous crisis talks in Paris last week focused on whether Europe could muster a credible military force to deploy to Ukraine after a cease-fire or peace deal, as well as a longer-term aim of pledges to boost defense spending.

Some progress was made, but there was no decisive breakthrough announcement.

The challenge for the London talks, after the debacle in the Oval Office, is to achieve something more tangible and impressive.

Alongside this, some European leaders are raising the prospect that this goes beyond proving their worth to Washington. Instead, it's about preparing for a possible scenario in which they cannot rely on the U.S. security umbrella.

The winner of the recent German elections, Friedrich Merz, declared a week ago that Europe needed to achieve "independence" from the United States.

After Zelenskyy's Washington trip, German Foreign Minister Annalene Baerbock said she would back measures to help Ukraine "withstand Russia's aggression even if the United States withdraws support."

Here in Britain, Starmer's position has been echoed across the political spectrum. Prominent figures who have been close to Trump urged him not to burn bridges with Zelenskyy.

Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party and vocal Trump admirer, said: "This is not the end of the story, far from it. A peace deal is essential, and Ukraine needs the right security guarantees."

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "The best way forward now is for the minerals deal to be signed as soon as possible. There is still a path to peace."

He was referring to an agreement that was supposed to be the great diplomatic prize of Zelenskyy's Washington trip, heralding a renewed relationship with the United States.

Those high hopes have been dealt a body blow. In London, leaders are desperately seeking a response.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/london-starmer-europe- ukraine-zelenskyy-loan-summit-russia/33332840.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Europe Pushes For Lasting Peace, But Can Russia's Battlefield Momentum Be Halted?

By Reid Standish March 02, 2025

From high-stakes U.S.-Russia talks to a potential cease-fire, the conversation around ending the war in Ukraine is rushing forward as U.S. President Donald Trump looks to make good on his campaign promise to quickly strike a deal to stop the fighting.

But despite recent diplomatic momentum, tensions flared in Washington on February 28, when a heated exchange between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy exposed deep divisions over how to achieve that goal. Analysts say that a concrete agreement -- let alone a lasting peace deal -- remains elusive, and the three-year, all-out war looks set to keep grinding on.

"There is a disconnect between the situation on the ground and the political discourse that we are hearing about cease-fires, peacekeepers, and even a settlement," Janis Kluge, a Russia expert at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs in Berlin, told RFE/RL. "All of those things are still a long way off."

On the ground, Russian and Ukrainian forces are still fighting a brutal war of attrition with few territorial gains and high casualties.

Biting winter weather has slowed the fighting lately as Russian forces have looked to replenish equipment and soldiers after months of crushing combat that's led to steady but incremental gains. The Ukrainian military, meanwhile, remains outflanked and is struggling with manpower shortages but has adapted by employing new tactics and technologies to blunt Russia's attacks.

According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), a Washington-based think tank, Russian forces have made small advances on Ukrainian positions in Kursk, the small swath of Russian territory taken by Kyiv in August 2024, in recent days.

The Ukrainian military has also reported fresh Russian attacks in all directions along the front, such as near the city of Pokrovsk and the village of Nadiivka along the western edge of the Donetsk region. Nearby, Ukrainian forces said they recently regained control of the village of Kotlyne after launching a counterattack at the end of February.

"The fundamental situation on the battlefield has not changed and that is that Moscow is still in a relatively strong position," Kluge said. "Russia is advancing -- although very slowly and at a high cost."

Where Do Things Stand On The Front Line?

The sweeping territorial gains by Ukrainian or Russian militaries in the early days of the war have mostly transitioned into high-casualty assaults with heavy artillery and drone attacks. Russian forces currently control around 20 percent of Ukrainian territory and claim to have annexed four regions -- Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhya, and Kherson -- despite some parts of those areas remaining under Kyiv's control.

Ukrainian forces are currently holding more than 1,500 kilometers of front lines against Russian troops, as well as about 400 square kilometers in Kursk.

On the battlefield in Ukraine, Russian forces have maintained the upper-hand and largely controlled the tempo of fighting in the last year as they've looked to gain new advances thanks to the use of glide bombs and explosive-loaded drones that fly with the use of fiber-optic cables.

But those limited territorial gains have come at a great cost for Russia.

George Barros, who leads the team that monitors battlefield developments at ISW, says that Russia's operations on the ground have slowed considerably, especially since it captured the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiyivka in February 2024. That advance came after Ukraine had defended the city since the beginning of the invasion but withdrew as wave after wave of Russian assaults left its depleted forces nearly surrounded.

"Since taking Avdiyivka a little over a year ago, Russia has not managed to advance their front line by very much," he told RFE/RL. "That's come with staggering losses in terms of soldiers and equipment."

Russian forces gained 4,168 square kilometers of land in 2024, according to ISW, and that came with a high cost of life on both the Russian and Ukrainian sides.

Exact battlefield casualties are difficult to ascertain, but since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has lost 46,000 soldiers in combat and 380,000 have been wounded, Zelenskyy said during a recent speech, although many experts believe the total number to be higher.

Russian casualty estimates range from 600,000 to 750,000 killed or wounded soldiers since the beginning of the war and estimates compiled by ISW say that Moscow could be losing around 25,000 to 30,000 troops per month, or roughly 1,000 soldiers a day.

The sheer size of Russia's military has allowed it to absorb high losses -- as well as the addition of thousands of soldiers from North Korea in Kursk.

Estimates by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) say that Moscow also lost more than 1,400 tanks to Ukrainian attacks in 2024 but has still managed to sustain its war effort on Soviet-era stockpiles and ramped-up domestic manufacturing.

Michael Kofman, an expert on the Russian military at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, said that while holding the upper hand on the battlefield, Moscow likely remains "disappointed" that it hasn't been able to achieve "an operationally significant breakthrough."

"Despite the fact that they retain a very significant advantage in terms of materiel and overall manpower, they've not been able to turn those advantages into big gains on the battlefield," he told an online panel to mark the war's third anniversary.

What Will 2025 Bring To The Battlefield?

Despite talk of winding the war down, the fighting continues. Reports from the open-source monitoring group DeepState show that Russian forces have been concentrating nearly half of their attacks so far in 2025 in the area around Pokrovsk in eastern Ukraine.

"Neither side is able to conduct large operational maneuvers right now, but the Russians are burning through a lot more resources than the Ukrainians are," Barros said.

In the absence of a likely breakthrough of each other's front lines, experts say that the war has become less about taking large swaths of territory and instead about forcing the other side to suffer high losses in terms of equipment, ammunition, and casualties.

Ukraine's main weaknesses have been a shortage of soldiers to replace its losses and uncertain supplies of Western military aid, especially given the Trump administration's stated reluctance to keep supporting Kyiv on the battlefield as it has in the past.

That raises vital questions for Ukraine on the battlefield should the war continue to grind on while U.S. military assistance stops.

According to data from the German-based Kiel Institute for the World Economy, European governments -- including non-EU members Britain and Norway -- have contributed almost $64 billion in military aid to Ukraine up until the end of 2024 compared to $66 billion from the United States in the same span.

Zelenskyy, following his difficult trip to Washington, received a warmer welcome in London on March 1 as European leaders prepared to meet on March 2 to discuss Ukraine and European security.

But Julia Friedrich, a research fellow at the Global Public Policy Institute in Berlin, says that European militaries will need time to ramp up production in order to adequately supply Ukraine, possibly even years.

"We are definitely looking at a gap between what the Ukrainians need and what the Europeans can supply," she told RFE/RL. "There is hope that investing in Ukrainian production will help, but more funds will need to be raised for that, which also takes time."

How quickly -- or if at all -- European governments will need to bridge that gap remains to be seen and will be affected by the success and speed of diplomatic talks to end the war. In the meantime, the war looks set to continue.

"Russian negotiators are experienced and will be aiming to get everything they can," said Friedrich. "Moscow has put everything into this war, so it's going to take a lot more than a friendly phone call and meeting to make Russia stop."

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/putin-trump-ukraine- pokrovsk-drone-military-frontline/33331620.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio with George Stephanopoulos of ABC This Week

US Department of State

Interview

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

Washington, D.C.

March 2, 2025

QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, thank you for joining us this morning. Has there been any contact with President Zelenskyy since Friday?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, I haven't had any contact with him since Friday. We have plenty of contacts with him, though. Plenty. I mean, he met - in the last ten days, he's met with the Secretary of Commerce - he spoke to the President on the phone, met with the Secretary of Commerce, met with me, met with the Vice President, met with our special envoy, and then was invited and came over on - invited. He wanted to come over on Friday to sign this commercial deal that didn't happen. So there's been plenty of contact with them. I've talked to the foreign minister several times - not since then. And we'll see moving forward.

I think the last line in the President's Truth Social post is the one to focus in on, and that is we'll be ready to reengage when they're ready to make peace, which is clearly what the President's goal is here. He's trying to get Russia to the table to bring about - to see if there's a way to bring about an end to this conflict. That's his goal. That's his only goal. That's his centralized focus. And hopefully, we'll get to a point where that's possible.

QUESTION: The British prime minister said this morning that the United Kingdom and France are working on a peace plan with Ukraine to present to the U.S. Do you know where things stand with that plan?

SECRETARY RUBIO: No. I mean, I've talked to both of the foreign ministers of France and the UK yesterday, and I explained to them sort of the events leading up to what you saw on Friday.

Look, I think what's really important here is to understand the dynamic. The President is basically saying there's this horrible war, it's been going on for three years, it is a bloody stalemate, a meatgrinder type war, and he wants it to end. How does it end? It's very simple. The only way it ends is if Vladimir Putin comes to a negotiating table. And right now, President Trump is the only person on Earth who has any chance whatsoever of bringing him to a table to see what it is he would be willing to end the war on.

Now, maybe their claims or what they want, their demands, will be unreasonable. We don't know, but we have to bring them to the table. You're not going to bring them to the table if you're calling them names, if you're being antagonistic. That's just the President's instincts from years and years and years of putting together deals as someone who's in business. And that's the only goal here is 

QUESTION: Well, let me just stop you there for one second. Why is it 

SECRETARY RUBIO:  to try to bring about an end to - a freer world - a war with no end in sight.

QUESTION: Why is it okay to call President Zelenskyy 

SECRETARY RUBIO: All right, I'm sorry.

QUESTION: Why is it okay to call President Zelenskyy a dictator but not, as you say, call Vladimir Putin names?

SECRETARY RUBIO: We've spent three years calling Vladimir Putin names. That's not the point now. The point that we're at now is we're trying to get the man to a table. The Russians - and I've said from the very beginning maybe they don't want a deal either. We don't know. But we haven't talked to them in three years, but maybe they do.

The point is do we want to make - I would ask everybody this: If there are no negotiations, what is the alternative? Another four years of war, another three years of war, in which the United States and Europe continues to pour billions of dollars into a war in Ukraine? Is that the alternative?

I've asked every foreign minister I meet with, "Tell me your idea of how this turns out." Most don't have a plan. A few have said, well, let's give them another year of fighting, a year from now, a year later, after another year of death, another year of destruction, then maybe Putin will be ready to negotiate at that point. That doesn't sound like a good plan to me, and it certainly is not a plan the President is on board with.

QUESTION: It's not just about getting people to the table. It's about keeping agreements that are made. And that was one of the points that President Zelenskyy was making in the Oval Office on Friday is that Vladimir Putin has not kept the agreements that were made in the past. Wasn't he right about that?

SECRETARY RUBIO: But what is - moving forward is the question, not the past. No one here is claiming Vladimir Putin is going to get the Nobel Peace Prize this year or that he should be the man of the year of the humanitarian association. What we're arguing here is he has a very large country, they're on full war footing, they're cranking out weapons now at a war-footing pace, and we need to figure out is there a way to get them to stop the war. And the only way you're going to do that is to get Russians engaged in negotiations - something the Europeans haven't been able to do, the Biden administration wasn't able to do or didn't even try.

That's the goal here. It's that simple. Can we try to sit with them and figure out whether there's any - what are the Russian demands? Under what conditions would the Russians be willing to stop this war? And as I said, we don't know what those are because we haven't talked to them in three years. That's the singular goal here is to try to bring about an end to this conflict, and it begins by getting them to the table.

Ultimately, like any truce, like any peace agreement anywhere in the world, those things will have to be enforced. They'll have to be enduring. There will have to be safeguards put in place. Everybody understands that. But it begins with the first step, and that is engaging them to see if it's even possible. Because if it's not possible, then what we're looking at is a protracted stalemate with thousands of people dying, billions of dollars pouring in, and more death and destruction. And that's not something the President wants to be a part of. He's made it very clear.

QUESTION: Aren't those talks feasible only if the United States is willing to also provide security guarantees to Ukraine? That was the point that President Zelenskyy was also making in the Oval Office.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, the security guarantees - which I actually like to call deterrence - is all contingent upon there being a peace. Everybody is saying security guarantees to secure the peace. You first have to have a peace. We don't even know if the peace is possible. And that - this was understood by the Ukrainians. It was explained to them repeatedly, and that is here's our strategy, we're trying to get Putin to a negotiating table. Don't - let's not - everyone knows the history here, the back and forth. We understand that. We all understand that.

But the question now is can we get them to a table to negotiate. That's our goal. Don't do anything to disrupt that. And that's what Zelenskyy did, unfortunately, is he found every opportunity to try to Ukraine-splain on every issue, then he confronts the Vice President. When the Vice President says the goal here is diplomacy, he immediately jumps in and challenges the Vice President - well, what kind of diplomacy? So we all understand, okay, that Putin is not going to be an easy negotiator in this regard. We all get that. But we have to - we have to start the process to see if something is even possible.

And I honestly am puzzled. I just don't understand. The Biden administration berated Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israelis, put all kinds of conditions and pressure on them to try to get a ceasefire. In this particular case, we've been nice by comparison. And all we're trying to do here is figure out whether a peace is possible. All these other things that people keep bringing up, that'll have to be a part of a negotiation. Right now there is no negotiation. Shouldn't we at least try to see if there is a way to end this war in a way that's acceptable to both sides and is enduring and sustainable? How is that a bad thing? I really am puzzled why anyone thinks that trying to be a peacemaker is a bad thing. It's only a bad thing when it's Donald Trump trying to do it, when it's President Trump. It's absurd to me.

QUESTION: Well, even some of your Republican allies are puzzled by the steps that President Trump has taken to placate Vladimir Putin. I want to bring up a post that Lisa Murkowski 

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, which ones? What steps has the President taken to placate 

QUESTION: Let me show 

SECRETARY RUBIO: What steps has he taken?

QUESTION: Let me show you 

SECRETARY RUBIO: Are we arming the Russians?

QUESTION:  what Lisa Murkowski said and your 

SECRETARY RUBIO: Are we providing economic assistance to the Russians? Have we given the Russians $180 billion? What does that mean, "to placate"?

QUESTION: Let me ask you the question. This is Lisa Murkowski and here's what she says: "This week started with administration officials refusing to acknowledge that Russia started the war in Ukraine. It ends with a tense and shocking conversation in the Oval Office and whispers from the White House that they may try to end all U.S. support for Ukraine. I know foreign policy is not for the faint of heart, but right now I am sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin - a threat to democracy and U.S. values around the world." Those are not my words. That's Senator Lisa Murkowski. What's your response?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, yeah, we're a free country. People have a right to these opinions. I would just say to you, "What have we done to placate the Russians?" The only thing we've done is say are you guys willing to talk about peace. I say the same point. We're not giving - we haven't given Russia $180 billion in weapons. We haven't given them an Oval Office meeting.

QUESTION: You voted with North Korea and Russia and - you voted with North Korea and Russia and Belarus in the United Nations and against our Western allies.

SECRETARY RUBIO: No, let me tell you. All right, so you know what the - do you know what the United Nations resolution was? I'll tell you if you want to hear what it was. It basically said this has been a horrible war, it's time for it to end, the job of the UN is to bring about peace in the world. I thought that's what the UN was created to do - to stop wars and to prevent them. And that's what the resolution did.

Was it antagonistic towards the Russians? No. Back to the point. But it also didn't praise the Russians. All it said is this is a bad war, it needs to end. And by the way, at the Security Council, which has not been widely reported, the first resolution on Ukraine that has passed the Security Council in three years passed this week because of the leadership of President Trump, and it's a resolution that said bad war, needs to end, let's bring the two sides together. That's what the resolution is.

Again, what is the United Nations for? Isn't it not a forum to promote peace in the world? And shouldn't our president - shouldn't we all be happy that we have a president who's trying to stop wars and prevent them instead of start them? And I just don't get it, I really don't, other than the fact that it's Donald J. Trump. If this was a Democrat that was doing this, everyone would be saying, well, he's on his way to the Nobel Peace Prize. This is absurd. We are trying to end a war. You cannot end a war unless both sides come to the table, starting with the Russians, and that is the point the President has made. And we have to do whatever we can to try to bring them to the table to see if it's even possible.

I'm not promising you it's possible. I'm not telling you it's 90 percent likely. I'm saying it's 0 percent likely if we don't get them to a negotiating table. And the sooner everyone grows up around here and figures out that this is a bad war that's heading in a bad direction with death and destruction and all kinds of danger surrounding it that could spiral into a broader conflict, the sooner people grow up and realize that, I think the more progress we're going to be able to make.

But the President is crystal clear. He campaigned on it and he's going to govern on it, and that is he is going to be a president that tries to achieve peace. And he has been very clear this is a war that would have never happened had Donald Trump been in the White House, and it needs to end, and we're going to do everything we can to end it in an enduring and sustainable and fair way.

QUESTION: You said in your confirmation hearings that Russia will have to make concessions to get a peace deal. What concessions do you expect them to make?

SECRETARY RUBIO: Well, why would I say that on a news broadcast? That's what negotiations are about. That's the problem here. Again, everybody is - this is not a messaging exercise, okay? This is can they get to a table, and then there's hard work to be done. You're absolutely right; I'm not telling you this is an easy peace deal. The Russians will give you a 30-minute lecture on the history of Ukraine and this, that, and the other. The Ukrainians have their own point of view. There's no doubt about it.

But what peace deal in the history of the world has ever been easy? That's the hard work of diplomacy. That's exactly what the Vice President was alluding to. That's what peace deals involve. You've covered this. You've been around for a long time. These conflicts are not easy to solve. We're getting - but you can't solve them at all if you don't even have a process to try to solve it, if you don't have the parties at the table.

And right now that's been our goal. It's been explained crystal clear to the Ukrainians and the Europeans and everyone else who wants to know for weeks now, for weeks now. And the only thing they were told was do not do things to derail it. And sadly, President Zelenskyy couldn't contain himself in that regard. I hope this could all be reset. I hope he comes to the realization that we're actually trying to help his country here before it suffers thousands of more casualties. Three million people have already left Ukraine. Are they ever going to be able to come back? He's got Ukrainians being held prisoner, including children, on the Russian side. All this is - why is any of this good for anybody? And the argument that we're going to just keep it going forever, that's absurd.

So it's time to bring the Russians to the table if it's even possible and see if there is a way forward that ends this conflict and makes sure it never happens again. That's our goal. That remains our goal. That's the President's goal.

QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, thanks for your time this morning.

SECRETARY RUBIO: Thank you.

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Chair's Statement: Leaders Meeting on Ukraine, LoPM call with leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania: 2 March 2025

The Prime Minister spoke to President Alar Karis of Estonia, Prime Minister Evika Silina of Latvia and President Gitanas Nauseda of Lithuania this morning.

2 March 2025

The Prime Minister spoke to President Alar Karis of Estonia, Prime Minister Evika Silina of Latvia and President Gitanas Nauseda of Lithuania this morning.

The Prime Minister reiterated that Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania are key partners of the UK, including through the Joint Expeditionary Force, and welcomed their leading contributions in support of Ukraine since Russia's illegal invasion began.

The Prime Minister updated them on his discussions with the leaders of Ukraine, France and the United States in recent days - and underlined his focus on securing a lasting peace in Ukraine that ensures their future sovereignty, backed up by strong security guarantees.

They all agreed that Europe must unite and drive forward urgent action that will secure the best outcome, which will be vital for Europe's future security.

The Prime Minister updated on his plans to convene leaders in London later today for further discussions and they agreed to stay in close contact in the coming weeks.

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PM remarks at international leaders' summit press conference: 2 March 2025

The Prime Minister's remarks at the International Leaders summit press conference in London.

2 March 2025

Location: Lancaster House

Delivered on: 2 March 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Good afternoon.

The first priority of this government - of any government...

Is the security and safety of the British people...

To defend the national interest...

Particularly in these volatile times.

That's why, last week...

I announced the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the Cold War.

That's also why I met President Trump last week...

To strengthen our relationship with America -

As indispensable partners in defence and security.

And it's why, this weekend, I have been hosting European leaders here in London...

To work together...

For the security of the United Kingdom, Ukraine and Europe as a whole.

Through my discussions over recent days...

We have agreed that the UK, France and others...

Will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting...

Then we'll discuss that plan with the United States...

And take it forward together.

The purpose of today's meeting was to unite our partners around this effort...

To strengthen Ukraine...

And to support a just and enduring peace...

For the good of all of us.

Our starting point must be...

To put Ukraine in the strongest possible position now...

So that they can negotiate from a position of strength.

And we are doubling down in our support.

Yesterday evening...

The UK signed a 2.2 billion loan...

To provide more military aid to Ukraine -

Backed, not by the British taxpayer...

But by the profits from frozen Russian assets.

And today, I am announcing a new deal...

Which allows Ukraine to use 1.6 billion of UK Export Finance...

To buy more than 5,000 air defence missiles...

Which will be made in Belfast...

Creating jobs in our brilliant defence sector.

This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now...

And strengthening Ukraine in securing the peace, when it comes.

Because we have to learn from the mistakes of the past.

We cannot accept a weak deal like Minsk -

Which Russia can breach with ease.

Instead, any deal must be backed by strength.

Every nation must contribute to that in the best way that it can.

Bringing different capabilities and support to the table...

But all taking responsibility to act...

All stepping up to their own share of the burden.

So we agreed some important steps today.

First, we will keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia...

To strengthen Ukraine now.

Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security.

And Ukraine must be at the table.

Third, in the event of a peace deal...

We will keep boosting Ukraine's own defensive capabilities...

To deter any future invasion.

Fourth, we will go further to develop a "coalition of the willing" to defend a deal in Ukraine...

And to guarantee the peace.

Not every nation will feel able to contribute.

But that can't mean we sit back.

Instead, those willing will intensify planning now - with real urgency.

The UK is prepared to back this...

With boots on the ground, and planes in the air...

Together with others.

Europe must do the heavy lifting...

But to support peace on our continent.

And to succeed, this effort must have strong US backing.

We're working with the US on this point, after my meeting with President Trump last week.

And let me be clear - we agree with the President on the urgent need for a durable peace.

Now we need to deliver, together.

Finally, we agreed that leaders will meet again very soon...

To keep the pace behind these actions...

And to keep working towards this shared plan.

We are at a crossroads in history today.

This is not a moment for more talk -

It is time to act....

Time to step up and lead...

And to unite around a new plan...

For a just and enduring peace.

Thank you.

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Historic 1.6bn deal provides thousands of air defence missiles for Ukraine and boosts UK jobs and growth

Deal will create 200 jobs in Northern Ireland and provide 5000 air defence missiles missiles to Ukraine.

2 March 2025

200 new jobs will be created and hundreds more supported at one of the UK's leading defence manufacturers, after a 1.6bn deal was announced by the Prime Minister today to supply thousands of advanced air defence missiles to Ukraine.

The latest measures in the UK's support for Ukraine to achieve peace through strength, the deal will also provide a major boost to the UK economy and support 700 existing jobs at Thales in Belfast, which will manufacture more than 5,000 lightweight-multirole missiles (LMM) for Ukraine's defence. The deal will see production of LMMs at Thales's factory treble and will also benefit companies in the Thales Supply Chain across the UK - putting more money in working people's pockets.

It is the largest contract ever received by Thales in Belfast and the second largest MOD has placed with Thales, building on a previous contract with Thales, signed in September 2024 for 650 missiles. The first batch of missiles were delivered before Christmas, and this new contract will continue deliveries.

The deal comes after the Prime Minister announced the Government's commitment to increase spending on defence to 2.5% of GDP by April 2027 and confirmed an ambition to spend 3% of GDP on defence in the next parliament, in order to keep Britain safe and secure for generations to come. This investment will be an opportunity to translate defence spending into British growth, British jobs, British skills, and British innovation.

The deal helps deliver on the Government's pledge in its Plan for Change to improve the lives of people in every corner of the UK by growing the economy. By spending more on defence we will deliver the national security that underpins economic growth, and unlock new jobs, skills and opportunities across the country.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

My support for Ukraine is unwavering. I am determined to find a way forward that brings an end to Russia's illegal war and guarantees Ukraine a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security. I am also clear that national security is economic security. As well as levelling up Ukraine's air defence, this loan will make working people here in the UK better off, boosting our economy and supporting jobs in Northern Ireland and beyond. By doubling down on our support, working closely with key partners, and ensuring Ukraine has a strong voice at the table, I believe we can achieve a strong, lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace in Ukraine.

Defence Secretary John Healey MP said:

Three years since Putin launched his full-scale invasion, we are now at a critical moment for the future of Ukraine and the security of us all in Europe. We all want a secure and lasting peace. As today's meeting has showed, the UK will continue to lead international efforts to support Ukraine in securing a ceasefire and durable peace. And we will not jeopardise the peace by forgetting about the war. This new support will help protect Ukraine against drone and missile attacks but it will also help deter further Russian aggression following any end to the fighting. This new deal delivers on the UK's ironclad commitment to step up military support for Ukraine, whilst boosting jobs and growth at home.

Today's deal marks a historic step for industrial relations between the UK and Ukraine, building on the 100 Year Partnership signed recently by the Prime Minister and President Zelenskyy in Kyiv. The contract will enable Ukraine to draw on 3.5bn of export finance to acquire military equipment from UK companies, boosting both the UK's and Ukraine's defence industrial bases and support investment in further military capabilities.

Ukraine has already put the highly capable LMM missile to use as part of its air defences where it has proven to be incredibly effective in protecting civilians and critical infrastructure from Russia's bombardment. A 162m contract announced in September last year saw 650 LMM missiles supplied to Ukraine as an initial order to ramp up production - deliveries started in December 2024.

Thales Northern Ireland will deliver the contract - worth an initial 1.16bn with the potential for around a further 500m of work to be added - in collaboration with a Ukrainian industry partner, which will manufacture launchers and command and control vehicles for the missiles in Ukraine.

The contract has been placed by the MOD's procurement arm Defence Equipment & Support on behalf of the Ukrainian Government, to be funded by a loan underwritten by United Kingdom Export Finance (UKEF) after a deal signed last year to allow Ukraine to draw on 3.5bn worth of support from UKEF to spend with UK industry.

As set out in the Plan for Change, national security is the first duty of the Government - and a strong economy is built on the bedrock of strong security. Increased defence spending will support highly skilled jobs and apprenticeships across the whole of the UK. Last year, defence spending supported over 430,000 jobs across the UK, the equivalent to one in every 60, and 68% of defence spending goes outside of London and the Southeast, benefitting every nation and region of the country.

Andy Start, DE&S CEO and UK National Armaments Director said:

The UK's Defence Industry has supported Ukraine from the start of the war and this important contract underlines industry's ability to scale up production at pace to deliver the world-class defence equipment Ukraine requires. This contract is a critical next step in the work of Task Force HIRST in developing lasting partnerships between the UK and Ukraine's defence industries. The substantial increase in LMM production capacity will benefit both Ukraine's fight tonight, as well as the longer-term security of the UK.

The deal marks the next milestone in the work of the MOD's Taskforce HIRST and the first of a series of "mega projects" to be delivered for Ukraine, with the HIRST team working to build long-term relationships with Ukrainian industry to restore and modernise their defence industrial base, support its future defence and economic growth.

Earlier this month, the Defence Secretary announced a new 150m military support package to support Ukrainian troops fighting Russia on the frontline, part of the UK's unprecedented 3 billion annual pledge to Ukraine.

The UK has committed to spending 3bn next financial year to support Ukraine, with an additional 1.5bn from interest on seized assets through the Extraordinary Revenue Accelerator - taking the total to 4.5Bn. This will ensure Ukraine can achieve peace through strength and underscoring the new 100 Year Partnership between the UK and Ukraine.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Giorgia Meloni Discussed Action Plan for Ending the War With a Guaranteed Peace

President of Ukraine

2 March 2025 - 16:28

In London, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with President of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni.

The key topic of the meeting was coordination with partners to develop a joint action plan for ending the war with a just and lasting peace.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Giorgia Meloni discussed the importance of maintaining unity around Ukraine and strengthening our country's position in cooperation with European and U.S. allies.

A separate focus was placed on providing robust security guarantees for Ukraine and all of Europe. Our people must be confident that Russia will never return with war.

Additionally, the leaders discussed new formats for consultations between European countries and the United States.

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Ukrainians continue to flee the frontline, as war stretches into fourth year

2 March 2025 - Communities on the frontline of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine are being killed, injured and displaced on a daily basis, as the war grinds on.

"In the last six months alone, more than 200,000 people have been evacuated from frontline areas in the east and north," said Filippo Grandi, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees on the three-year anniversary of the war on Monday 24 February.

Mr. Grandi added that, since the start of the war, around 10.6 million people have been forced from their homes. While most fled during the early stages of the Russian invasion, he said, the displacement and suffering continues.

Drones 'swarming over the city every day'

Many of those being displaced in the east and north of the country arrive at transit centres before being helped to find temporary shelter at repurposed public buildings known as collective sites.

Serhii Zelenyi was recently evacuated by bus to a transit centre in the eastern city of Pavlohrad after fleeing daily bombardments of Pokrovsk, his home city, in the frontline Donetsk region, 130 kilometres from the border with Russia.

"It was very difficult in Pokrovsk. Drones were swarming over the city every day, from morning till late in the evening," says Zelenyi. "Sometimes there was a two-hour pause, then the bombardments started again. It was impossible."

The handyman and small-scale farmer was among the last of his neighbours to leave, finally deciding that the constant danger, lack of food, water and electricity, and the need to stay indoors almost the entire day was too much to bear.

On arrival in Pavlohrad, Mr. Zelenyi received clothes and cash assistance from the UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, through its local partner organizations, and is now wondering what he will do next. "I lost everything," he said, "I need to start again from scratch."

A safe space to cry

Mr. Zelenyi's story is not unusual, says Alyona Sinaeva, a psychologist with Proliska, UNHCR's partner organization in Pavlohrad. Those arriving from frontline regions are, "in acute stress, because they come from cities where active fighting is taking place."

The centre provides a safe place for traumatized civilians while Proliska and other UNHCR partners provide the arriving evacuees with clothing, cash assistance to buy essentials, hygiene kits, legal aid and psychosocial support.

"In this space they can relax and cry. These are the emotions that they have not been able to show up until now," said Sinaeva. "People are tired. Tired of war. Everyone is tired."

Three years since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and 11 years since the start of the war in the east and the occupation of Crimea, destruction and displacement continue to be a daily reality and an estimated 12.7 million people - around a third of the population still living in Ukraine - need humanitarian assistance.

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Russia-Ukraine war remains deeply unsettled

By VOA News March 02, 2025

The state of Russia's three-year war against Ukraine remained deeply unsettled Sunday, with the United States saying it does not know whether peace is possible, while European leaders renewed support for Kyiv's forces, vowed to ramp up defense spending and to send peacekeeping forces to patrol any would-be truce in the conflict.

Two days after U.S. President Donald Trump berated his visiting Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as ungrateful for U.S. military assistance and not "ready" for peace, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer told 18 allies at a London summit that with Washington wavering in its support for Kyiv, Europe finds itself "at a crossroads in history."

"This is not a moment for more talk  it's time to act. It's time to step up and lead and unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace," Starmer said.

The British leader said that with no guarantee of U.S. involvement to act as a support backup for would-be peacekeeping forces, "Europe must do the heavy lifting" in securing peace in Ukraine. He said there was a "coalition of the willing" ready to help defend any truce.

Meanwhile, Trump's national security adviser, Michael Waltz, speaking about Zelenskyy, told CNN's "State of the Union" show Sunday, "What was not clear to us was whether he shared our goal of ending this war. It was not clear he was ready to go to peace."

Unlike in Washington, Zelenskyy was warmly embraced at the summit by many of the European heads of state, along with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and NATO chief Mark Rutte. Zelenskyy supporters rallied outside Starmer's residence in support of Ukraine.

As the leaders gathered Sunday, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen warned, "We urgently have to rearm Europe" and "prepare for the worst" on the continent.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, called for the United States and Europe to "speak with one voice" in showing Russian President Vladimir Putin "that the West has no intention of capitulating before his blackmail and aggression."

In addition to attending the security summit, Zelenskyy met with King Charles at his Sandringham estate in England.

Starmer, when he first greeted Zelenskyy on Saturday, unveiled a $2.84 billion loan agreement to support Ukraine's defense capabilities, to be paid back with the profits of immobilized sovereign Russian assets.

In Washington, Zelenskyy had been poised to sign a deal with the U.S. for American access to Ukrainian rare earth mineral rights. But after his acrimonious exchanges with Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Trump ordered him to leave the White House, and the mineral rights pact was not signed.

The Kremlin said in remarks aired Sunday that the United States' dramatic shift in Europe foreign policy toward Russia is largely aligned with Moscow's vision.

"The new administration is rapidly changing all foreign policy configurations. This largely coincides with our vision," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with Russian state television that was recorded last Wednesday.

No peace negotiations are scheduled.

Trump, in a Truth Social posting, said Friday that Zelenskyy could return to the White House "when he is ready for Peace."

Trump national security adviser Waltz said that eventually Russia and Ukraine will have to make negotiating concessions to reach a peace deal. "There will be all kinds of carrots and sticks to get this done," he said.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also stressed the importance of both sides coming to the negotiating table.

"We are trying to end a war," Rubio said. "You cannot end a war unless both sides come to the table, starting with the Russians. And that is the point the president has made."

"I'm not promising you it's possible," he added. "I'm not telling you it's 90% likely. I'm saying it's 0% likely if we don't get them to a negotiating table. And the sooner everyone grows up around here and figures out that this is a bad war that's heading in a bad direction with death and destruction and all kinds of danger surrounding it that could spiral into a broader conflict, the sooner people grow up and realize that I think the more progress we're going to be able to make."

Starmer said Britain, France and Ukraine have agreed to work on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States. Some European countries have said they are willing to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine to help enforce a would-be peace agreement but need the U.S. to provide backup military support to confront Russia in the event Putin agrees to a ceasefire and then violates it or launches a new invasion.

Trump has rejected sending such U.S. support and said he trusts Putin to honor any settlement of the war that he agrees to.

Starmer said he does not trust Putin but does trust Trump.

"Do I believe Donald Trump when he says he wants lasting peace? The answer to that is yes," he said.

Starmer said there are "intense discussions" to get a security guarantee from the U.S. as one of several components for a lasting peace.

"If there is to be a deal, if there is to be a stopping of the fighting, then that agreement has to be defended, because the worst of all outcomes is that there is a temporary pause and then Putin comes again," Starmer said. "That has happened in the past, I think it is a real risk, and that is why we must ensure that if there's a deal, it is a lasting deal, not a temporary pause."

Some material in this report came from The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse.

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Zelensky says still "ready to sign" minerals deal with U.S.

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 10:31, March 03, 2025

LONDON, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that he is still "ready to sign" a minerals deal with the United States.

Despite a fractious meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump last week, he is still willing to have a "constructive dialogue" with the United States, Zelensky told BBC following a summit with Western leaders in London.

Zelensky's statement came after his meeting with Trump on Friday turned into a heated exchange, leading to the cancellation of an anticipated bilateral raw materials agreement.

The draft deal, as U.S. media reported, included the establishment of a fund to be jointly owned by Ukraine and the United States, to which Ukraine will contribute 50 percent of its revenues from the future monetization of natural resources, including critical minerals, oil and gas.

After the Sunday summit, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that leaders at the summit had agreed on a four-step plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine and that Britain will allow Ukraine to use 1.6 billion pounds (2 billion U.S. dollars) of British export finance to purchase more than 5,000 air defense missiles.

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France, UK propose one-month Ukraine ceasefire plan

Iran Press TV

Monday, 03 March 2025 12:56 AM

French President Emmanuel Macron says his country and the UK are pushing for a one-month ceasefire in Ukraine, as Europe tries to shift peace negotiations away from US control.

In an interview with France's Le Figaro newspaper, Macron said on Sunday the proposed ceasefire will include operations in the air and at sea, as well as energy infrastructure.

He added that such a truce, at least at its beginning, would not cover ground fighting.

Macron said no troops will be deployed to Ukraine in the coming weeks, and European ground forces will only be deployed in the second phase of the plan.

Peacekeepers would be deployed at a later date, he said, adding: "There won't be European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks."

He suggested that European countries should raise their defense spending to between 3 and 3.5 percent of GDP to respond to Washington's shifting priorities.

"For three years, the Russians have spent 10 percent of their GDP on defense," he told the paper. "So we have to prepare for what's next."

Macron was speaking ahead of a crisis meeting with European leaders, convened by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in London.

The meeting sought to advance efforts made to draw up a Ukraine peace plan.

In a separate interview with Milan's Il Foglio newspaper, Macron said that Europe needed a "strong" Italy to help resolve the conflict in Ukraine.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni dismissed the prospect of her country contributing to any peacekeeping force in Ukraine, saying it was "never on the agenda."

"We need Italy, a strong Italy which works side-by-side with France, with Germany, in the concert of great nations," Macron said.

Meanwhile, the British prime minister said on Sunday that the UK and France will work with Ukraine to draw up the new ceasefire plan which will then be presented to US President Donald Trump for approval.

Starmer described the fresh initiative as "an important step forward" after the ties between Kiev and Washington were severely strained during Friday's public confrontation between the Ukrainian and US presidents.

Starmer has positioned himself as a diplomatic bridge between Europe and the US as efforts to initiate talks over Ukraine's future intensify.

While several European leaders have rallied around Zelensky following Friday's confrontation in the Oval Office, Starmer had been more cautious, speaking with both Zelensky and Trump in the immediate aftermath of their bust-up.

He said on Sunday that he trusted both Zelensky and Trump and insisted that the relationship between the US and the UK continues to be the "closest relationship of any two countries in the world."

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Europe Looks To Regain Momentum On Ukraine After Rollercoaster Week Of Diplomacy

By Chris Rickleton March 03, 2025

A high-stakes London summit on Ukraine rounded off a week of diplomacy that laid bare differences between the United States and its European allies on ending Russia's war against the country -- and over the figure of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

A disastrous meeting in the Oval Office between Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump two days prior added fresh urgency to the March 2 talks hosted by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which featured more than a dozen European leaders, including the Ukrainian president.

Also in attendance were Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa.

Absent from the conference was any representative of the United States, although Starmer said before the summit began that the U.K., France, and Ukraine "and possibly one or two others" would be working on a peace plan they would discuss with Washington.

If he ever doubted it, it will now be clearer than ever to Zelenskyy that his country enjoys plenty of moral support on the Continent.

Both Starmer and French President Macron pleaded with Trump not to abandon Ukraine and to take a strong line on Russia during their respective visits to the White House on February 27 and February 24, while crediting the U.S. president's plans for a quick peace to end the three-year full-scale war.

(Macron's visit coincided with the third anniversary of the invasion, when the United States shocked world opinion by joining Russia to vote against a UN General Assembly resolution condemning Moscow's aggression against Ukraine.)

And after Zelenskyy's own visit to Washington on February 28 was cut short following that remarkable confrontation with Trump and U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, he received plenty of solidarity messages from Europe.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas remarked that "the free world needs a new leader" in an implied criticism of Trump, while Von der Leyen told Zelenskyy that "Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people," in a post on X.

There will be more material support coming from Europe, too, with Starmer and Zelenskyy agreeing to a 2.26 billion pound ($2.84 billion) loan to Ukraine that Zelenskyy said "will be repaid using revenues from frozen Russian assets," after receiving a warm reception in London.

But can European assistance ever be enough to compensate for a potential financing shortfall from the United States - the single biggest contributor of military aid to Ukraine - now that relations between Washington and Kyiv are at their lowest point in the past decade?

That is the question troubling policymakers there after Zelenskyy and Trump butted heads in extraordinary fashion in front of journalists at the White House, where Trump cast himself as a "mediator" between Moscow and Kyiv, rather than the latter's staunch ally.

"You're either going to make a deal or we're out," said Trump, during a testy exchange that appeared to leave Ukraine's ambassador to the U.S., Oksana Markarova, visibly distressed.

Zelenskyy, for his part, characterized Russian President Vladimir Putin as "a killer" who could not be trusted to maintain a cease-fire without firm security guarantees from the United States, which Washington is yet to provide.

The Ukrainian president has said he still believes the bilateral relationship can be salvaged, despite the standoff appearing to scupper for the moment a framework deal between Kyiv and Washington for Ukraine's critical minerals and post-war reconstruction.

Several top decision-makers on Kyiv's side of the Atlantic have said that needs to happen fast.

NATO Secretary-General Rutte said he had told Zelenskyy in a conversation that he needed to restore the relationship with Trump.

Zelenskyy appeared to move closer to accepting the advice, saying later in his nightly video address that "of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we have received from the United States."

"There hasn't been a single day when we haven't felt grateful. Because this is gratitude for the preservation of our independence: Our resilience in Ukraine is built upon what our partners do for us and for their own security," he added.

"There will be diplomacy for peace. And for the sake of all of us standing together - Ukraine, the whole of Europe, and most necessarily America."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgi Meloni, who enjoys good ties with Trump, said she hoped her country could be "a bridge" to mend Kyiv-Washington relations ahead of the London summit, adding that it was "very, very important" to avoid a schism in the Western coalition.

Beyond Ukraine, Europe is worrying over the future of European defense as a whole, with Trump repeatedly casting the NATO alliance as an unduly expensive one for the United States, while demanding that its member states commit a larger proportion of their budgets to military spending.

But other than boosting military spending, or tapping profits from Russian assets frozen in the wake of Moscow's full-scale invasion, what can European countries do to beef up defenses that experts describe as currently inadequate without the U.S. backstop?

Speaking to RFE/RL in London, Russia expert Edward Lucas detailed plans for a "rearmament bank" that Lucas is part of, and which he says has already won public endorsements from policymakers such as U.K. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.

Lucas said such a bank would be modeled on the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), an institution financed with capital contributions from member states, initially to power Central and Eastern Europe's infrastructure-building and transition to market capitalism in the 1990s.

"We need to show Donald Trump that Europe's serious and that's important for what's left of alliance cohesion. We need to show Putin that we're serious and that's important for deterrence. And we need to show the Ukrainians that we're serious in supporting them in order to keep their morale up," Lucas said.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/zelenskyy-london-europe- russia-ukraine-trump-/33333516.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Boulogne-Billancourt, France  March 3rd, 2025  A2MAC1, the global leader in automotive benchmarking and insights, announces a major step in its organizational evolution with the appointment of Jasmino Burkic as Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) and the reinforcement of its regional leadership with the arrival of Jessica Zheng, Vincent Ruty, and the promotion of Tetsuro Ida as Regional General Managers. This strategic transformation underscores A2MAC1s commitment to strengthening its client partnerships and driving innovation across key markets worldwide.

Jasmino Burkic Joins as Chief Revenue Officer as of March 1st

Jasmino Burkic steps into the role of CRO, bringing over two decades of expertise in scaling technology companies, particularly in the software and SaaS sectors. His leadership in strategic business development, mergers and acquisitions, and sales transformation will be instrumental in enhancing A2MAC1s commercial strategy and reinforcing its market leadership.

Prior to joining A2MAC1, Jasmino served as CEO at Rapid Data GmbH and Ecovium GmbH where he successfully restructured the company for scalability and growth. His previous experience at incadea GmbH, and SAP has equipped him with deep industry knowledge, particularly in the automotive and software domains. His appointment marks a pivotal moment in A2MAC1s journey toward delivering even greater value to its clients through an integrated and customer-centric approach.

I am thrilled to join A2MAC1 at such a transformative time. By aligning our innovative solutions with a Best Practice sales strategy, we will continue to provide our clients with unparalleled insights and support, said Jasmino Burkic.

Regional Leadership Reinforcement

To further strengthen its local presence and client engagement, A2MAC1 has appointed experienced leaders to oversee its key regions:

Jessica Zheng, General Manager North America , brings over 15 years of expertise in sales & marketing, product, and global business development. Her ability to navigate complex markets and foster client relationships will drive A2MAC1s expansion in North America.

, brings over 15 years of expertise in sales & marketing, product, and global business development. Her ability to navigate complex markets and foster client relationships will drive A2MAC1s expansion in North America. Vincent Ruty, General Manager EMEA , leverages more than 20 years of international leadership in technology, innovation and operations. His deep understanding of transformation and customer needs will ensure seamless support and growth across the European market.

, leverages more than 20 years of international leadership in technology, innovation and operations. His deep understanding of transformation and customer needs will ensure seamless support and growth across the European market. Tetsuro Ida, General Manager Asia, has been promoted in recognition of his significant contributions to A2MAC1s success in the region. With a career spanning two decades in the automotive and technology industry, his knowledge of Asias dynamic market landscape will strengthen the companys footprint and client collaborations.

This evolution of our leadership structure is a strategic move to get even closer to our clients, said Patrick Katenkamp, CEO of A2MAC1. With Jasmino at the helm of our global sales organization and a strengthened regional leadership team, we are reinforcing our ability to deliver tailor-made solutions that empower our clients to navigate an ever-changing industry.

With this enhanced structure, A2MAC1 is poised to accelerate its global growth and continue providing industry-leading insights that drive innovation and competitive advantage for its clients.

About A2MAC1

A2MAC1 helps its clients engineer better vehicles, faster and with more confidence. A2MAC1s mission is to empower businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth through a unique blend of technical insights, competitive analysis, trend forecasting and integrated solutions tailored to meet the specific needs of the automotive industry.

With a global presence and a reputation for excellence, A2MAC1 is the trusted partner for companies looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.

Contact

A2MAC1 Communication Team

communication@a2mac1.com

__

24  26 Quai Alphonse le Gallo

92100 Boulogne-Billancourt - France

www.a2mac1.com

__

A2MAC1





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SAN FRANCISCO, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Exabits , the compute baselayer transforming GPU (graphic processing unit) clusters for enterprises and a supplier to decentralized cloud compute companies, and GAIB, the first economic layer for AI and compute financialization, creating a new type of yield bearing assets backed by real AI demands, today announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize how GPU infrastructure is acquired, scaled, and monetized. By combining Exabits high-performance AI compute technology with GAIBs tokenized GPU investment platform, this partnership will unlock new capital flows, expand GPU accessibility, and provide investors with a direct stake in the growing AI compute economy.

The collaboration addresses a critical challenge in AI and cloud computingthe high cost and limited access to high-performance GPUs. With demand for AI compute skyrocketing, Exabits and GAIB are introducing a scalable investment model that allows institutions, enterprises, and investors to participate in the growth of AI compute infrastructure through tokenized GPU assets.

Transforming GPU Compute into a High-Value Investment Asset

GPUs are the core infrastructure powering AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing, yet access remains concentrated among a few large cloud providers. The Exabits-GAIB partnership introduces a new financial model that enables:

Ownership of Tokenized GPUs and Their Yields: Investors gain fractional ownership and earn returns tied to real-world GPU utilization.

Investors gain fractional ownership and earn returns tied to real-world GPU utilization. Cloud Compute Expansion: Exabits will scale its AI-ready GPU infrastructure , supplying more compute power to enterprises, DeSci, gaming, and AI-driven industries .

Exabits will scale its , supplying more . New Liquidity Channels: GAIBs tokenization model and DeFi-based financial instruments enable Exabits to scale more efficiently without relying solely on traditional capital-raising methods.



"The AI industry is experiencing an unprecedented demand for compute power, but access remains costly and centralized," said Dr Hoansoo Lee, Co-Founder of Exabits. "By tokenizing GPU assets with GAIB, were introducing a new investment model that allows institutional and retail investors to participate in AIs explosive growth while expanding our infrastructure to meet market needs."

"GAIB is building the AiFi economy, which signifies a paradigm shift in how we perceive and utilize computational resources, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence and machine learning., and this partnership with Exabits provides additional support for our vision," said Kony, CEO of GAIB. "Were making GPU investments more accessible, liquid, and scalablebridging the gap between capital markets and the AI revolution."

How the Partnership Works

GPU and Their Yield Tokenization: Transforming Compute Assets into Tradable Financial Products

Exabits will acquire GPUs through GAIBs tokenization platform, enabling investors to own a stake in real-world AI compute infrastructure.

Exabits Role: Identify GPUs for tokenization, ensure transparent asset registration, and deploy them into enterprise-ready cloud compute networks.

Identify GPUs for tokenization, ensure transparent asset registration, and deploy them into enterprise-ready cloud compute networks. GAIBs Role: Develop tokenization protocols, create GPU-based investment products, and manage regulatory compliance.

Unlocking New Investment Opportunities in AI Compute

The partnership will provide global investors direct access to GPU-powered cloud infrastructure through structured financial products.

Exabits: Establishes hardware procurement needs, enables fractional GPU ownership, and integrates with GAIBs capital injection models.

Establishes hardware procurement needs, enables fractional GPU ownership, and integrates with GAIBs capital injection models. GAIB: Provides a transparent investment ledger, implements a yield-bearing mechanism that allows investors to earn passive income simply by holding the asset and ensures regulatory compliance.

Liquidity & Scaling: Expanding AI Infrastructure Without Traditional Funding Barriers

By leveraging GAIBs financial instruments, Exabits can scale its GPU infrastructure faster, reducing dependence on traditional VC or debt financing.

Exabits: Provides real-time GPU utilization and ROI insights, ensuring investors benefit from tokenized GPU revenues.

Provides real-time GPU utilization and ROI insights, ensuring investors benefit from tokenized GPU revenues. GAIB: Facilitates buying, selling, and staking of GPU-backed tokens, creating a liquid investment market for AI compute assets.

Enterprise-Grade Cloud Infrastructure for AI Innovation

Exabits cloud platform will power GAIBs compute offerings, allowing enterprises to access AI-ready infrastructure at scale.

Why This Matters: The Future of AI Compute is an Investable Asset

This partnership is a breakthrough for AI, institutional investors, and the compute economy:

 For Investors: A new way to earn yield from real, high-demand AI compute assets.

 For Enterprises: Scalable, high-performance AI infrastructure without pure reliance on traditional cloud providers.

 For the AI Industry: A more efficient, market-driven model for GPU access and scaling.

Join the AI Compute Revolution

The Exabits-GAIB partnership sets a new precedent for how AI infrastructure is funded, scaled, and monetized. As demand for AI compute accelerates, this collaboration will ensure that GPU access is no longer a bottleneck but an investment opportunity for enterprises, investors, and the broader AI ecosystem.

For more information on how to participate, visit: www.exabits.xyz or https://www.gaib.ai/

About Exabits

Exabits is the baselayer for AI compute, providing high-performance cloud infrastructure to enterprises, researchers, and developers. Through proprietary technology and GPU tokenization, Exabits is redefining the future of AI, DeSci, and machine learning compute.

About GAIB

GAIB is the first economic layer for AI compute, creating a new type of yield bearing assets backed by real AI demands. It tokenizes enterprise-grade GPUs and their yields, creating a decentralized liquid market for GPU financing, addressing the growing demand for high-performance computing while giving investors direct exposure to GPU assets. The platform enables a variety of DeFi use cases to be on top, including GPU backed stablecoins, lending and borrowing, options and futures, and various structured products.

Contact:

Exabits

contact@exabits.ai

GAIB

contact@gaib.ai

Press Contact: Ari

ari@reblonde.com

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by Exabits. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector--including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining--complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d9df3469-8ff4-46dc-a833-a2ed57a84953
TORONTO, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Giyani Metals Corp. (TSXV:EMM, GR:A2DUU8) ("Giyani" or the "Company"), developer of the K.Hill Battery-Grade Manganese Project in Botswana ("K.Hill" or the Project), is pleased to announce that High Purity Manganese Oxide (HPMO) has been produced at the Demonstration Plant (Demo Plant) in Johannesburg.

Highlights:

A key milestone was achieved during February with the production of HPMO, a precursor for the production of High Purity Manganese Sulphate Monohydrate ( HPMSM ), and also a precursor for certain electric vehicle ( EV ) and energy storage system ( ESS ) batteries. HPMO samples are expected to be shipped in March to prospective offtake partners.

), and also a precursor for certain electric vehicle ( ) and energy storage system ( ) batteries. HPMO samples are expected to be shipped in March to prospective offtake partners. HPMO is becoming the preferred precursor for the rapidly growing market for Lithium-Manganese-Iron-Phosphate ( LMFP ) and Lithium-Manganese-Nickel-Oxide ( LMNO ) EV and ESS batteries. Whilst HPMSM is the preferred precursor for Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt ( NMC ) EV and ESS batteries, HPMO and HPMSM can both be used to produce LMFP and LMNO batteries.

) and Lithium-Manganese-Nickel-Oxide ( ) EV and ESS batteries. Whilst HPMSM is the preferred precursor for Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt ( ) EV and ESS batteries, HPMO and HPMSM can both be used to produce LMFP and LMNO batteries. Giyani has received indications of demand for HPMO from OEM groups, and intends to produce both HPMO and HPMSM in order to give the Company technological and product optionality, enabling it to maintain pace with the rapidly developing battery market, and be able to serve the majority of potential future battery types.

The Demo Plant remains on track to produce HPMSM during Q1 2025. Samples of HPMSM will then be provided to potential offtakers to begin qualification trials as part of the offtake process, which will form an integral component of Project Financing.

The Demo Plants secondary objective is to significantly derisk the Commercial Plant (to be constructed in Botswana) design in parallel with the Definitive Feasibility Study ( DFS ) which is underway and expected to be completed in 2025.

) which is underway and expected to be completed in 2025. The Giyani team is attending the PDAC conference in Toronto this week, with a full schedule of offtaker, investor, and strategic meetings.

Charles FitzRoy, President and CEO of the Company, commented:



Production of HPMO from the Demo Plant is a huge milestone. It proves the flowsheet at this precommercial scale, confirms Giyanis technological optionality to be able to serve the rapidly evolving battery industry, and diversifies Giyanis product risk. A fantastic achievement from all the team and now onto the next step of producing HPMSM which is anticipated in Q1 2025.

The commercial advantages of producing multiple battery-grade manganese products cannot be overstated. The battery market is moving exponentially quickly, and the dual capability of being able to produce both HPMO and HPMSM allows Giyani to position itself as a preferred supplier in this fast paced industry. LMFP battery demand is increasing and will likely take a large market share from LFP batteries, and in-turn will increase demand for battery-grade manganese in both HPMSM and HPMO form.

Demo Plant Commissioning and Production Update

The construction of the Demo Plant, which consists of nine Process Modules (each a self-contained process system within a fixed frame), is complete. The Production ramp-up (C5 Commissioning) phase has advanced, and the team continues to work determinedly towards first production of HPMSM. The Demo Plant materially advanced Hot Commissioning (C4 Commissioning) during February 2025. C4 and C5 commissioning naturally progress in parallel in the final stages of commissioning.

Commissioning challenges have included power outages, water supply disruptions, engineering and technical challenges, the majority of which were expected and mitigated during February 2025.

The Demo Plant also enables final optimization of the engineering design and flowsheet to reduce operating costs and carbon profile, in parallel with the DFS which is underway and expected to be completed in 2025. The Demo Plant laboratory, independently installed and operated by Quality Lab Services (QLS, a Minopex company), continues to operate as planned with full analytical surveys completed during the ordinary course of operations.





Figure 1: Demo Plant Render

Stages of commissioning:

C1  Full mechanical completion (individual Process Modules)

C2  Dry testing, direction testing, loop testing (individual Process Modules)

C3  Cold/Water Commissioning, software testing (individual Process Modules)

C4  Hot Commissioning with reagents and steam (typically full Process)

C5  Production Ramp-up (full Process)



In addition to progress at the Demo Plant, concurrent metallurgical test-work is underway to further optimize the flowsheet. Giyani is focused on further reducing reagent use and improving both the operating cost and carbon profiles for the Commercial Plant, planned for construction adjacent to Giyanis extensive 100% owned manganese oxide ore sources in Southern Botswana.

The Demo Plant is designed at a scale factor of approximately 1:10 to the planned Commercial Plant. This provides robust and reliable scale-up from the Demo Plant data when the Commercial Plant is implemented. To illustrate, the leach tanks have a 60cm diameter in the Demo Plant and this is expected to be 8-10x larger at approximately 5m in the Commercial Plant.

Alongside the engineering, commercial and research benefits of the Demo Plant, the availability of mature Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will facilitate a smooth transition to full-scale commercial production.

The laboratory, and all the procedures and methods associated with it, can be transferred directly to the Commercial Plant, enabling a tried and tested laboratory set-up available on Day 1 of Commercial Plant commissioning.

Botswana Developments

Giyani announced in January (see NR dated January 23, 2025) the receipt of its Special Economic Zone (SEZ) licence for its Commercial Plant. The SEZ licence will positively impact the Company, as it provides fiscal and non-fiscal benefits. Important to note is that the Company will benefit from 5% corporate tax rate for the first 10 years of production from its Commercial Plant, increasing to 10% thereafter, a considerable benefit which was not included in the 2023 PEA.

During February, Giyani launched its first tender for site preparation works, exclusively reserved for 100% Botswanan citizen-owned companies. The tender for perimeter fencing and beacon installation is targeting contractors from Kanye, ensuring the local community directly benefits from Giyanis project.

About Giyani

Giyani is focused on becoming a dominant western-world producer of sustainable, low carbon high purity battery grade manganese for the EV and ESS industry. The Company has developed a proprietary hydrometallurgical process to produce battery-grade manganese (HPMSM and HPMO), a lithium-ion battery cathode precursor material critical for EVs and ESS.

Additional information and corporate documents may be found on www.sedarplus.ca and on Giyani Metals Corp. website at https://giyanimetals.com/ .

Qualified Persons / NI 43-101 Disclosures

A National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101) technical report including results of the PEA and the MRE can be found on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and made available on the Company's website at https://giyanimetals.com/ .

Jeffrey Peter Stevens BSc (Chem Eng) Pr. Eng is a Qualified Person, as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Stevens is assisting the Company for DFS compliance with NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical content contained in this news release and is independent of the issuer for the purposes of NI 43-101.

On behalf of Giyani Metals Corp.

Charles FitzRoy, President and CEO

Contact:

Giyani Metals Corp.



Charles FitzRoy, President & CEO cfitzroy@giyanimetals.com



Tel: +1289-291-7632



Tavistock, Corporate Communications



Tara Vivian-Neal / Josephine Clerkin giyani@tavistock.co.uk



Tel: +44 20 7920 3150





Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events or developments that Giyani expects to occur, are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "does not expect", "plans", "anticipates", "does not anticipate", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential", "scheduled", "forecast", "budget" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur.

Such statements include without limitation: the Company the ongoing construction, commissioning and operation of the Demo Plant, the completion of hot commissioning, the production of HPMSM and HPMO, the delivery of product, and entering into offtake agreements and timing thereof.

All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of the relevant management as of the date such statements are made and are subject to certain assumptions, important risk factors and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Giyani's ability to control or predict. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In the case of Giyani, these facts include anticipated operations in future periods, planned construction and development of its properties and facilities, and plans related to its business and other matters that may occur in the future. This information relates to analyses and other information that is based on expectations of future performance and planned work programs.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information, including, without limitation: inherent exploration hazards and risks; risks related to exploration and development of natural resource properties; uncertainty in Giyani's ability to obtain funding; commodity price fluctuations; recent market events and conditions; risks related to governmental regulations; risks related to obtaining necessary licences and permits; risks related to Giyani's business being subject to environmental laws and regulations; risks related to the Company's mineral properties being subject to prior unregistered agreements, transfers, or claims and other defects in title; risks relating to competition from larger companies with greater financial and technical resources; risks relating to the inability to meet financial obligations under agreements to which they are a party; ability to recruit and retain qualified personnel; and risks related to the Company's directors and officers becoming associated with other natural resource companies which may give rise to conflicts of interests. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect Giyani's forward-looking information. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking information or statements.

Giyani's forward-looking information is based on the reasonable beliefs, expectations and opinions of the Company's respective management on the date the statements are made, and Giyani does not assume any obligation to update forward looking information if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions change, except as required by law. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. For a complete discussion with respect to Giyani and risks associated with forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, please refer to Giyani's continuous disclosure documents which are filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e6813d1e-4277-411e-8d64-e85748e4ead4
AI-powered robotic dogs 'take over' inspections at vegetable production base in Shouguang, E China's Shandong

People's Daily Online) 10:33, March 03, 2025

An artificial intelligence (AI)-powered robotic dog inspects the conditions of vegetables in a greenhouse at the experimental demonstration base for modern agricultural technologies in Shouguang city, east China's Shandong Province. (People's Daily Online/Wang Tianle)

Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered robotic dogs are now handling inspection patrols at the experimental demonstration base for modern agricultural technologies in Shouguang city, east China's Shandong Province.

These robotic dogs are responsible for inspecting the conditions of vegetables grown in greenhouses at the base. They meticulously inspect the crops row by row, identifying pests and diseases that could affect plant health.

After completing their rounds, agricultural technicians analyze the data collected by the robotic dogs, evaluating crop growth and pest control needs.

By leveraging an AI-trained agricultural knowledge base, they provide farmers with informed, science-based suggestions for planting strategies and pest management, ensuring more efficient and sustainable farming practices.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
The Turins technical University expands connections and networks with Ethiopia in line with its internationalization strategy, in which Africa is among the leading countries

TURIN, Italy, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Politecnico di Torino expands connections and networks with Ethiopia thanks to an institutional mission to Addis Ababa led by Rector Stefano Corgnati, consistent with Politecnicos internationalization strategy for which Africa is among the leading countries. The University's Strategic Plan, indeed, includes among its main goals the reinforcement of its international vocation by growingly expanding to non-EU countries, thanks to increasing agreements and collaborations with Universities, research centers, businesses and institutions.

Rector Stefano Corgnati and his delegation, with the support of the Embassy of Italy in Ethiopia, met with Ambassador Agostino Palese and his staff, and Michele Morana, Director of AICS-Italian Agency for Development Cooperation. AICS recently financed the project for the rehabilitation of the National Ethnological Museum hosted by Addis Ababa University. Politecnico di Torino has led this 4-million-euro project with the involvement of the Venaria Reale Restoration Center: the aim is to rehabilitate the Guenete Leul building, which is of historical interest to the country and hosts the museum, and to redesign the exhibition layouts, revitalizing the country's valuable ethnographic collection.

The mission was therefore an opportunity to officially meet Samuel Kifle Kidane, President of Addis Ababa University, signing a collaboration agreement aimed both at fostering the mobility of students and researchers and at activating research synergies, particularly on the topics of water and energy management. The agreement also included coordination actions more inherent to the above-mentioned project.

Lastly, Politecnicos delegation presented its complete study offer and student initiatives to the high school students of the Italian State Institute "Galileo Galilei" in Addis Ababa, one of the most important Italian schools abroad in terms of number of students and educational cycles covered.

"Ethiopia is a key country for the development of internationalization actions in Africa and, thanks to the support of the Italian Embassy, we are establishing a real hub of Politecnico di Torino to coordinate all activities in this area. We are first of all promoting a mobility project for students and young researchers to foster collaborations and share experiences," commented Rector Stefano Corgnati.

"Politecnico di Torinos mission to Addis Ababa, led by Rector Stefano Corgnati, was a further step in the framework of strengthening inter-university relations, which are experiencing a very strong development, as seen during the recent visit of the Minister of University and Research, Senator Anna Maria Bernini. The mission included the signing of a new Cooperation Agreement between Politecnico and Addis Ababa University, in addition to the 4-million-euro project funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for the rehabilitation of the National Ethnological Museum housed in the historic Guenete Leul Palace of the Addis Ababa University District, for which Politecnico is the lead partner.

The implementation of these projects, constantly supported by our Embassy, is in line with the vision of the Mattei Plan - in which Ethiopia occupies a leading role due to its strategic relevance and the depth of bilateral relations with our country. For the success of the Mattei Plan as a new model of equal relations between Italy and the African countries, the cultural dimension in the development of relations between States and their Peoples cannot be ignored," said Ambassador Agostino Palese.

For more information:

Press Office LaPresse - ufficio.stampa@lapresse.it

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/700c30b3-90aa-423b-af49-e26e0beeb598
Dublin, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Enterprise Tech Ecosystem Series: Deutsche Lufthansa AG - 2024" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The report provides insights into the company's tech activities, including its digital transformation strategies, its innovation programs, its technology initiatives, investments, and acquisitions.

Deutsche Lufthansa AG or the Lufthansa Group (Lufthansa) is a multinational aviation company comprising two segments: passenger airlines and aviation services.

The passenger airlines segment encompasses several commercial airline brands, including Lufthansa Airlines, Brussels Airlines, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Eurowings, Discover Airlines, Edelweiss Air, Air Dolomiti, Lufthansa City Airlines, Lufthansa CityLine, and an equity investment in SunExpress, a joint venture with Turkish Airlines. The aviation services segment comprises several business divisions, including logistics, maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO), Lufthansa Systems, and Lufthansa Aviation Training.



The report provides information and insights into Lufthansa's tech activities, including:

Insights of its digital transformation strategies and innovation programs.

Overview of technology initiatives covering partnerships, product launches, investments and acquisitions.

Insights on each technology initiative including technology theme, objective, and benefits.

Details of estimated ICT budgets and major ICT contracts.

Reasons to Buy

Gain insights into Lufthansa's tech operations.

Gain insights into its tech strategies and innovation initiatives.

Gain insights into its technology themes under focus.

Gain insights into various product launches, partnerships, investments and acquisitions.

Key Topics Covered:

Overview

Digital Transformation Strategy

Accelerators, Incubators, and Other Innovation Programs

Technology Focus

Technology Initiatives

Investments

Acquisitions

Partnerships, Investments & Acquisitions Map

ICT Budget and Contracts

Key Executives

A selection of companies mentioned in this report includes, but is not limited to:

Globaleur

zeroG

3SPIN Learning

TD Reply

Optifly

Vion AI

zeroG

Google Cloud

Micro

BMW

Lilium

Meta

MSM.digital

Airbus

Exeon Analytics

Viasat

Nokia

Vodafone Germany

Navit

Navan

Hopper

Cargobase

cargo.one

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/gq8sz

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Miata Metals Corp. (CSE: MMET) (FSE: 8NQ) ("Miata" or the "Company") is pleased to present further exploration results from the on-going, 2025 field mapping and sampling program at the Sela Creek Gold Project in Suriname (Sela Creek). The Company further announces that the drill crew is on site at Sela Creek and preparing to drill the first hole of its maiden 10,000 m diamond core drilling program this week.

Highlights:

A grab sample * with grains of visible gold at the Puma target has yielded 39.16 g/t Au

with grains of visible gold at the Puma target has yielded 39.16 g/t Au Grab samples * from a newly opened pit at the central Puma target include 2.32 g/t Au and 5.92 g/t Au

from a newly opened pit at the central Puma target include 2.32 g/t Au and 5.92 g/t Au A grab sample * from a newly opened pit 1,000 m east of Puma and outside the predictive vein model yielded 7.03 g/t Au, extending the Puma gold trend to 3.7 km

from a newly opened pit 1,000 m east of Puma and outside the predictive vein model yielded 7.03 g/t Au, extending the Puma gold trend to 3.7 km The Company collected 63 rock samples with an average of 0.93 g/t Au in the latest batch of sampling

The diamond drill and drill crew are now on site and the Company expects to drill its first hole this week



This second batch of samples continues to inform our predictive vein model and targeting strategy, stated Dr. Jaap Verbaas, CEO of Miata. The drill rig and full drill crew from Major Drilling are now on site and will start testing the Stranger target this week, before moving to the Golden Hand target. Our entire exploration team has done amazing work to build up to this moment on a timeline of less than 5 months from closing of the acquisition to the start of drilling. The geological team has also found mineralization 1,000 m east of the interpreted extent of the Puma target, highlighting how much exploration upside there still is outside of our current interpretation of the targets.

Sampling and Reconaissance Mapping at the Puma, Golden Hand, and Stranger Targets





Figure 1. Predictive vein model over Golden Hand, Stranger, and Puma showing key samples discussed in the text. Note that only certain well-mineralized (>1 g/t Au) samples are depicted in this image. All channel samples, as well as grab samples depicted in grey are historical in nature and were not verified by the Company.

Operations Update

The crew from Major Drilling is now on site at Sela Creek and drill pads are being prepared on the Stranger and Golden Hand targets. Camp construction has accelerated over the past week and the camps 28-people bunk house is almost complete. The Company has also installed a water filtration system to allow for drinking water sourced from site, avoiding the expense of shipping drinking water. The goal at the Miata camp on Sela Creek is a camp capacity of 35 people to be able to expand the program to accommodate multiple drills as needed.

QA/QC

Samples were analyzed at the FiLab in Paramaribo, an ISO certified laboratory that inserts blanks and standards at regular intervals. All QA/QC samples yielded acceptable values.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Jacob Verbaas, P.Geo., a director of the Company and Qualified Person as defined under the definitions of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

*Investors are cautioned that grab samples are inherently selective and serve to prove the presence of mineralization only.

About Miata Metals Corp.

Miata Metals Corp. (CSE: MMET). is a Canadian mineral exploration company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Company is focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties. The Company holds a 70% interest in the ~215km2 Sela Creek Gold Project in Suriname and a 70% beneficial interest in the Nassau Gold Project in Suriname. Miata also holds an additional option to acquire a full 100% interest in the Sela Creek Gold Project, and an option to earn 100% interest in the Cabin Lake Property in the Omineca Mining Division, British Columbia. The Company continuously evaluates opportunities to acquire interest in additional prospective exploration stage mineral properties.

On Behalf of the Board

Dr. Jacob (Jaap) Verbaas, P.Geo | CEO and Director

info@miatametals.com

+1 778 488 9754

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements as well as historical information. Readers should not rely on information in this summary for any purpose other than for gaining general knowledge of the Company. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the scope and timing of the Companys drilling programs. The words "expected", "will" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify forward looking statements. Although the Company believes that its expectations as reflected in any forward-looking statements, are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward- looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates, opinions or other factors should change.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2dd1c072-a3df-4b62-be97-508b4f0a8984
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coppernico Metals Inc. (TSX: COPR, OTCQB: CPPMF) (Coppernico or the Company), is pleased to provide an update on its ongoing diamond drilling program, being conducted through its wholly-owned private Peruvian subsidiary, Sombrero Minerales SAC, at its Sombrero Project in Peru.

Highlights

The Company has drilled approximately 7,100 metres ("m") and is currently drilling its 18th hole. Pending assay results are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

The Company has identified two new high-potential exploration targets (Figure 1). The Tipicancha epithermal target, southwest of the Ccascabamba target area. The Antapampa target, an iron-skarn occurrence north of the Nioc target area.

The Company is advancing expanded permits to incorporate key targets including Fierrazo and Tipicancha, with a temporary drilling pause after the 20th hole to optimize capital allocation and review data before resuming drilling.



Figure 1: General location map of the current exploration targets.

Ivan Bebek, Chair and CEO of Coppernico, stated, Drilling to date has been completed under budget and on time, and is continuously providing valuable insights into our thesis that a large, mineralized skarn system could be present. Our knowledge of the controls of the system and the vectoring towards key mineralized areas of the skarn continues to improve, while programs have also identified new robust targets for discovery.

Data collected to date also suggests that high-priority targets lie just outside our current drill permit boundaries and we are actively working to expand the current permits. Fierrazo, lying immediately outside the permitted area, remains our most compelling target due to the fact that it is the main part of the Sombrero Skarn system that outcrops. The Fierrazo target has long and high-grade channel samples as well as historical drill hole intervals. We are advancing permits for this area and will provide updates in the near future as we work to access this prospective zone.

We are currently waiting on assays from 4 interesting holes from the Hojota area and are drilling 1 of 3 remaining key holes focused on significant new targets that have seen minimal to no drilling. The 20th hole marks the conclusion of Phase 1 drilling; we will pause fieldwork as we wait for pending assays, additional permits, and update our technical knowledge base before proceeding further.

The identification of the Tipicancha and Antapampa targets are significant as they also offer prospective targets with scale for considerable copper-gold discoveries at Sombrero. With a 100,000-hectare land position, we have barely scratched the surface of this district.

Drilling Program

Coppernico has successfully completed approximately 7,100 m of drilling to date having recently commenced hole 18, with ongoing work focusing on key targets within the Ccascabamba target area.

Phase 1

Focused exclusively on the Ccascabamba target area, Phase 1 includes Hojota, Corrales, Chumpi, and Escondida targets (Figure 2A). Holes 14 through 17 have intersected mineralization suggesting a potential extension of the high-priority zone previously identified in hole 4 (See press release dated November 12, 2024). However, while initial observations are encouraging, assay results are still pending and are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

The next two planned drill holes are strategically designed based on the insight gained from previous drilling and are designed to test significant new targets that have yet to be drilled. With the completion of the 20th hole, Phase 1 drilling will conclude, allowing for a temporary pause in field activities. During this period, the Company will await pending assay results, advance permit approvals, and refine its technical understanding to optimize the next phase of exploration.

Phase 2

The Phase 1 drilling campaign has delivered results in line with the Companys exploration thesis, with intercepts confirming the presence of mineralization and each additional drill hole helping vector towards higher-grade zones. Given the observed correlation between magnetic anomalies and causative intrusion boundaries with potential mineralized zones, Coppernico is actively working to extend the permitted area to further evaluate this exploration thesis (Figure 2B) ahead of commencing field operations in Phase 2.



Figure 2: Drilling program to date and permitted drilling area at the Ccascabamba target area within the Sombrero Project.

New Exploration Targets: Tipicancha and Antapampa

The Company has identified two new high-potential exploration targets (Figure 1)  expanding discovery opportunities within the project area  through detailed mapping and sampling which has outlined the Tipicancha epithermal target southwest of the Ccascabamba target area (Figure 3), and a newly discovered iron-skarn occurrence has been located approximately 1.5 km north of the Nioc target area, referred to as the Antapampa target (Figure 6).

Tipicancha: A Large Epithermal System with Porphyry Potential

Recent mapping and rock sampling at Tipicancha have outlined a significant alteration zone covering approximately 1 km by 2 km (Figure 4). The area shows classic signs of an epithermal system, with potential for a deeper porphyry connection as discussed below.

Figure 3: A) General geologic map of the Tipicancha target. B) Quartz-kaolinite altered volcanics with ferricrete ledges and subcrops of massive pyrite. C) Massive pyrite with copper-rich evaporite. D) Sulfur and copper-rich evaporites coating unconsolidated sediments. E) Massive pyrite with covellite coatings.

Key Findings

Geologic Indicators : Lower elevations feature outcrops of massive pyrite, areas with stockwork pyrite veining, and occasional porphyritic dikes, further suggesting a component of vertical zonation (Figure 5).

: Lower elevations feature outcrops of massive pyrite, areas with stockwork pyrite veining, and occasional porphyritic dikes, further suggesting a component of vertical zonation (Figure 5). Extensive Alteration: Well-developed alteration patterns characteristic of an epithermal system, with higher temperature alteration occurring more towards the center and lower elevations (Figures 4 and 5).

Well-developed alteration patterns characteristic of an epithermal system, with higher temperature alteration occurring more towards the center and lower elevations (Figures 4 and 5). Geochemical Zonation: A 400 m by 1,500 m anomaly with an assemblage of elevated gold, silver and molybdenum occurring over a large area at higher elevations, while anomalous copper, gold and molybdenum values are observed at lower elevations, and aligning with the most altered zones (Figure 4).

A 400 m by 1,500 m anomaly with an assemblage of elevated gold, silver and molybdenum occurring over a large area at higher elevations, while anomalous copper, gold and molybdenum values are observed at lower elevations, and aligning with the most altered zones (Figure 4). Expansion Potential: The target remains open to the north, with ongoing mapping and sampling aimed at fully delineating its extent (Figures 3, 4 and 5).



Figure 4: Mineral assemblages maps at Tipicancha.

Lower elevation portions of the system exhibit key indicators of temperature increasing with depth including an extensive zone of massive pyrite, stockwork pyrite veining, and the presence of porphyritic dikes (Figure 5). These features suggest a potential transition from an epithermal system to a porphyry environment at depth.

Alteration at Tipicancha is both laterally and vertically zoned, showing a well-developed hydrothermal system. Surface exposures reveal broad zones of silicification, kaolinite, montmorillonite, and native sulfur  typical of an epithermal system. These zones transition to areas dominated by alunite, kaolinite, and illite, along with quartz and vuggy silica, occurring within the most intensely altered regions generally at lower elevations (Figures 4 and 5).

Complementing the alteration patterns, rock geochemistry exhibits similar zonation. Anomalous values of gold, silver, and molybdenum occur over broad areas associated with lower-temperature alteration. Coinciding with the strongest and highest temperature alteration observed to date are anomalies of copper, gold, +/- molybdenum and a distinct lack of silver (Figures 4 and 5).



Figure 5: Schematic long section through Tipicancha showing vertical zonation patterns.

Tipicancha represents a new epithermal-porphyry-style target, distinct from  and younger than  the Eocene-aged skarn and porphyry systems at Ccascabamba, Nioc, and Good Lucky. The alteration system and porphyritic dikes cross-cut young volcanic rocks  the same units that overlie skarn mineralization elsewhere on the property.

The Tipicancha target falls within the Huancasancos community, where Coppernico holds an existing exploration agreement. Further exploration in this area will focus on refining the systems full extent and testing deeper zones for porphyry potential.

Antapampa: New Skarn Target Identified

A newly recognized iron-skarn system has been identified over a 1 km by 1 km area, where outcrops and sub-crops of massive hematite-magnetite mineralization are associated with garnet skarn (Figure 6). The mineralization and alteration occur above and near the contact between the Ferrobamba Limestone and the Mara Formation, which is considered a highly prospective setting elsewhere on the property. This new area will be mapped and sampled in more detail in the coming months to better define its extents and to understand its relationship to the Nioc target area.



Figure 6: A) Initial reconnaissance mapping at Antapampa target. B) Massive magnetite mineralization.

C) Red garnet skarn alteration. D) Altered monzonite intrusion.

This new target is located approximately 1.5 km north of the Nioc target area, where Coppernico initiated surface mapping and sampling in February. Importantly, it is located within the neighbouring community, where the Company is in the advanced stages of negotiating a community access agreement which, once finalized, will pave the way for further exploration in this relatively unexplored area.

Permitting Roadmap

The Company is advancing permit applications to access areas where historical drilling has indicated elevated mineralization values. The EIA-Sd drill permit application, currently in progress, seeks to expand the permitted boundaries and increase the number of drill holes, covering Fierrazo, Tipicancha, Chumpi, and Escondida South targets.

A temporary pause in drilling is planned for after the Company completes its 20th hole and until it secures full drilling access in these areas. This approach aligns with the Companys disciplined capital preservation strategy, ensuring resources are reserved for future drilling in key areas, while allowing the technical team to evaluate results before resuming drilling. Coppernico remains fully funded for its 2025 exploration plans.

Once assay results have been received, the Company will issue a detailed update, presenting a complete assessment of the drilling data. Coppernico will continue to refine its drill targeting through geophysical surveys and structural mapping, further optimizing exploration efforts.

Sombrero Project Featured at PDAC Core Shack

Coppernico is pleased to announce its participation in the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Conference, taking place on March 25, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario. As part of the PDAC Core Shack, the Company is displaying drill core samples from its Sombrero Project at booth #3109A on Sunday, March 2, and Monday, March 3. This dedicated space offers industry professionals and investors a unique opportunity to examine the project's mineralization first-hand, gain deeper insights into its geological potential, and engage directly with CEO Ivan Bebek and Coppernico's technical team.

Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Tim Kingsley, M.Sc., CPG, Coppernicos VP of Exploration, who is a Qualified Person (as defined in NI 43-101).

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ivan Bebek

Chair & CEO

For further information, please contact:

Coppernico Metals Inc.

Phone: +1 778 729 0600

Email: info@coppernicometals.com

Website: www.coppernicometals.com

Twitter: @CoppernicoMetal

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/coppernico-metals/

About Coppernico

Coppernico is a mineral exploration company focused on creating value for shareholders and stakeholders through diligent project evaluation and exploration in pursuit of the discovery of world-class copper-gold deposits in the Americas. The Companys management and technical teams have a successful track record of raising capital, discovery and the monetization of exploration successes. The Company's objective is to become a leading advanced copper explorer, and through its wholly-owned private Peruvian subsidiary Sombrero Minerales S.A.C., is currently focused on the Ccascabamba (previously referred to as Sombrero Main) and Nioc target areas within the Sombrero Project in Peru, its flagship project, while regularly reviewing additional premium projects to consider for acquisition.

The Sombrero Project is a land package of approximately 102,000 hectares (1,020 square kilometres) located in the north-western margins of the world-class Andahuaylas-Yauri trend in Peru. It consists of a number of prospective exploration targets characterized by copper-gold skarn and porphyry systems, and precious metal epithermal systems. The Companys NI 43-101 technical report, with an effective date of April 17, 2024, and as filed on SEDAR+ on May 23, 2024, focuses on the Ccascabamba and Nioc target areas of the Sombrero Project.

Coppernico Metals Inc. is currently listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "COPR" and trades on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol CPPMF. More information about the Company can be found on the Companys profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

Cautionary Note

No regulatory organization has approved the contents hereof.

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as may, should, anticipate, expect, intend and similar expressions and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the Companys drill plans, identifying targets for future exploration, the potential of the mineralization, the progress and approval of permits, the temporary suspension of drilling and its anticipated resumption, and its financial position in the future. No certainty can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers should refer to the risks discussed in the Companys AIF and other continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators, available at www.sedarplus.ca. These factors are not, and should not be construed as being, exhaustive. Accordingly, readers should not place heavy reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this new release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking information and the assumptions made with respect thereto speaks only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information after the date of this news release to conform such information to actual results or to changes in the Companys expectations except as otherwise required by applicable legislation.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d46ce989-7467-4efa-8439-1a2bf8bb3366

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fb2e285e-e638-4b67-aafe-b3b070b75cf0

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e2cff46b-fd0a-4517-a84e-be768c2668da

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3e00051f-45d0-4525-887b-8de48e5808a4

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/26c128b8-6e8a-4161-a0d7-c747814390c7

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/67a6799f-853c-4d9e-9e42-39055b57f8da
Dublin, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "U.S. Floral Gifting Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2025-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The U.S. Floral Gifting Market was valued at USD 12.18 billion in 2024, and is projected to reach USD 16.81 billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 5.52%

The U.S. floral gifting market remains highly competitive, with major players such as 1-800-Flowers.com, Teleflora, FTD, and From You Flowers dominating both online and offline channels. The competition is highly intense with the companies constantly coming up with innovative measures to better the customer experience by diversifying their product lines, as well as delivery services, to remain competitive. The trend of personalization, sustainability, and subscription-based services is changing competitive strategies for market leaders as they need to face evolving consumer demands.



The U.S. floral gifting market shows regional variations in demand. Major contributors to the market are states like California, New York, and Florida, particularly during peak gifting seasons such as Valentine's Day and Mother's Day. The Midwest and South are also growing markets for floral gifting, with increasing interest from suburban and rural areas where florals are commonly used for home decor and local celebrations. California is known for its plant trials and top-quality bulb flowers such as lilies, tulips, iris, ranunculus, etc., line flowers are grown outdoors or in hoop houses such as snapdragons, larkspur, Matthiola, gladious, and Australian/South African native cut flowers, California accounted for 60% of cut flower sales in the U.S.



Washington has grown and adapted into a notable cut-flower farmer, from its internationally recognized tulip and daffodil farms to its myriad of expert cut-flower growers who deliver fresh, local, fragrant blossoms of the highest quality and longest longevity.

MARKET TRENDS & OPPORTUNITIES

Shifting Preference of Consumers Towards Personalized Gifting



Personalization has become a key growth driver in the floral gifting market, as consumers increasingly seek unique and customized offerings tailored to specific occasions. Companies are addressing this demand by providing personalized options, such as custom arrangements, tailored messages, and specialized packaging. Furthermore, advancements in e-commerce platforms have made customization easier and more accessible, streamlining the process and enabling direct delivery.



Streamlined Distribution and Delivery



With the increase in online floral sites, logistics and delivery systems have become essential to ensure customer satisfaction. The demand for last-minute gifts, especially during key holidays like Valentine's Day and Mother's Day, is being met by same-day and next-day delivery services. For instance, companies such as Mayfield Florist, and FTD are providing same-day flower delivery. Companies are also investing in improved inventory management and distribution networks to ensure fresh flowers reach consumers without delay.



INDUSTRY RESTRAINTS

Competition from Non-Floral Gifts



While flowers are still a favorite gift, competition from non-floral gifts such as chocolates, personalized items, and tech gadgets is increasing. For instance, nearly 20% of companies now spend over USD 1,000 on client gifts during the holidays, choosing personalized products & experiences as gifts.

For example, companies like Amazon and Apple have seen increased demand for custom-branded smart devices and premium gift boxes, offering lasting value and functionality that challenge the appeal of traditional floral gifts. These alternatives are becoming more appealing due to their practicality and longer-lasting nature, which may reduce the appeal of flowers in the gifting market.



INSIGHTS BY OCCASION



In 2024, personal & self-gifting accounted for the largest market share of over 58%. Personal & self-gifting has emerged as a significant trend in alignment with broader post-pandemic wellness and self-care practices. This trend is most prevalent among adults aged 25-34, followed by Gen Z adults, while less than 10% of individuals aged 55 or older report intentions to buy themselves a gift.

Women are notably more inclined than men to engage in self-gifting. Within the U.S. floral gifting market, these dynamics could indicate opportunities for marketing flowers as a form of personal indulgence, particularly targeting younger adults and female consumers who are more likely to participate in self-gifting.

INSIGHTS BY PLATFORM



The U.S. floral gifting market by platform is categorized into offline and online. The offline segment held the largest market share in 2024. The market has largely been driven by purchases that are almost right before the occurrence of a specific occasion, with consumers dropping in and out to purchase flowers swiftly. Buying flowers in-store is a characteristic of the baby boomer generation that has been purchasing flowers way back, and this is barely expected to change.

The opportunities for florists are ripe, with consumers willing to spend more on products that are prepped and delivered by florists as they are equated to quality. Some of them, such as Studio Choo Florists, are particularly popular with the millennials due to the way they are structured, their sustainability, and their almost instant same-day deliveries. Yet others are looking for new avenues of growth, thereby cultivating relationships with event planners to draw a constant, pre-determined sale. In parts of some cities, such as Manhattan, retail florists are shifting from catering to mass market demands in segments such as funerals and get-well to high-class consumers and corporates as the profitability is much higher.



Mass-market retailers and supermarkets are finding their way into the floral market and are progressing slowly. There is a trend toward full-service operations being observed among chain and independent supermarkets and grocery/service wholesalers. Supermarket chains are re-evaluating the system and contemplating starting their operations for growing flowers.

INSIGHTS BY PRODUCT



Based on the product, Bouquets & Arrangements account for the largest share of revenue earned by this segment in the U.S. floral gifting market. Bouquets are popular flowers to be gifted, as they come in a variety of forms from the simplest single flower arrangement to complicated designs for high-profile events. Market growth also reflects in stems, especially in markets with consumers who are keen to self-arrange or purchase fresh flowers for individual events. Over the past couple of years, bouquet displays and floral arrangements have begun to resemble art installations across events and in retail.

This has caught the attention of the experience-oriented young generation, and the influence has spilled over into the gifting space. Millennials are more likely to buy flowers to make a good impression on guests, and as a result, bouquets and arrangements have found a fancy among this segment of the population.



INSIGHTS BY PURCHASE OPTION



The U.S. floral gifting market by purchase option is segmented into one-time purchases and subscriptions. The one-time purchase segment dominates and holds the largest market share. This involves one-time special occasions, where the individual arranges flowers or gifts, sends them immediately, and uses them on a one-time basis to say happy birthday or happy holiday among others. More significant generic gifting is one of the primary spurs to these single purchases because it usually is spur-of-the-moment and occasion-related. The mobile medium has greatly influenced this, with consumers ordering flowers on the go for whatever occasion-be it a birthday, anniversary, or otherwise.

One notable opportunity in the market is the alignment with social causes. Millennials, who have a huge motivation towards creating a social difference, are behind this trend of endorsing brands that carry out social initiatives. For example, floral business houses could focus on the potential by getting involved with customers' activities, distributing flowers in the hospitals, or earning a portion of the sale and donating it to charity. All these will raise brand loyalty while making a brand stand out amidst competition. A personalized retail experience is becoming increasingly important for customer building and loyalty. Offering unique shopping experiences, such as incorporating florals into the texture and scent of a store or tailoring flower arrangements based on customer preferences, can greatly drive revenues.

Key Attributes:





Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 256 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $12.18 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $16.81 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 5.5% Regions Covered United States

Market Dynamics

Market Opportunities & Trends

High Demand for Personalization

Rising Inclination Toward Health & Wellness

Bringing Farm-To-Table Principles to the Floral Industry

Intensifying Micro-Regionalism

Introduction of Flat-Packed Bouquets

Demand for Sustainability

Market Growth Enablers

Better Logistics & Delivery

Rise of Bioengineering in Retail, Hospitality, & Botanical Homescapes

Link Between Exposure to Flowers and Health & Wellbeing

Floral Design Gaining Renaissance

Multi-Cultural Audiences

Risk Aversion During Gift-Giving

Rise in Technological Development

Market Restraints

Competition from Non-Floral Gift Items

Investments in Dried & Artificial Flowers

Rising Popularity of Plant Gifts

Disparities and Issues with Flower Deliveries

Perishability of Flowers

Overview

Supply Chain Criticality

Supply Chain Recovery

Pricing Strategies

Consumer Spending & Market Trends

US Cut Flowers Export and Import Markets

US Cut Flowers Statistics 2023

Horticulture Sales by State 2023

Miami Flower Hub

Vertical Integration in the Market

Gifting Industry in the US

Valentine's Day 2023 & 2024

Consumer Trend Analysis

US Flower Industry Statistics 2024

Selling Direct -To-Customer: Recent Trend

Floral Gifting Market

Flower Production

Logistics & Transportation

Types of Transportation in Floral Logistics

Logistics Challenges

Solutions to Logistics Challenges

Importance of Packaging and Presentation

Rules & Regulations

Consumer Behavior

Key Consideration Drivers

Degree of Value

Purchase Barriers

Generational Insights

Millenials

Gen- Z

Baby Boomers

US Cut Flower Changing Regulations

Quality Standards in US Floral Industry

Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in the US Floral Gifting Market

Key Company Profiles

FTD, LLC

1-800-FLOWERS.COM, INC.

Telefora

From You Flowers, LLC

Other Prominent Vendors

Avas Flowers

Benchmark Bouquets

BloomNation, Inc.

BloomsyBox

Blooms Today

Farmgirl Flowers, INC

FLoom LTD.

Flora2000.com

FloraQueen

Flowerpetal.com

JUST FLOWERS DOT COM

The Flower Shop

The Bouqs Company

UrbanStems

Gotham Florist

H.Bloom

Venus et Fleur

Florists.com, LLC

1st in Flowers!, LLC

Kremp Florist & Flower Delivery

Send Flowers

Global Rose

Winston Flowers

The Sill, INC.

Farm Fresh Flowers

Enjoy Flowers

Freytag's Florist

McShan Florist

Phoenix Flower Shops

U.S. Retail Flowers Inc.

Fifth Ave Floral Co.

The Flower Shop Atlanta

Phillip's Flowers & Gifts

InBloom Flowers

Albuquerque Florist

Bokay Florist

Flowers4Dreams LLC

Flowers of the Field

Alyeska Farms

Wood's Flowers and Gifts

Azelly Flowers

Rainbow Florist & Delectables

Roberts Floral & Gifts

Petal+Eon

Miami Flowers Design

Peachtree Petals

Crowley House Flower Farm

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/qzedpt

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

Attachment
Dublin, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "New Zealand Life Insurance: Key Trends and Opportunities to 2029" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The report provides in-depth market analysis, information, and insights into New Zealand's life insurance segment. The report provides a detailed outlook by product category for New Zealand's life insurance segment.



It provides values for key performance indicators such as gross written premium, penetration, and premium ceded and cession rates during the review period (2020-24) and forecast period (2025-29). The report also analyzes distribution channels operating in the segment, gives a comprehensive overview of New Zealand's economy and demographics, and provides detailed information on the competitive landscape in the country.



The report also includes details of insurance regulations, and recent changes in the regulatory structure.



Key Highlights

Key insights and dynamics of New Zealand's life insurance segment.

A comprehensive overview of New Zealand's economy, government initiatives and investment opportunities.

New Zealand's insurance regulatory framework's evolution, key facts, taxation regime, licensing and capital requirements.

New Zealand's life insurance segment's market structure giving details of lines of business.

New Zealand's life reinsurance business' market structure giving details of premium ceded along with cession rates.

Distribution channels deployed by New Zealand's life insurers.

Details of the competitive landscape and competitors' profiles.

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the life insurance segment in New Zealand:

It provides historical values for New Zealand's life insurance segment for the report's 2020-24 review period, and projected figures for the 2025-29 forecast period.

It profiles the top life insurance companies in New Zealand and outlines the key regulations affecting them.

Reasons to Buy

Make strategic business decisions using in-depth historical and forecast market data related to New Zealand's life insurance segment.

Understand the demand-side dynamics, key market trends, and growth opportunities in New Zealand's life insurance segment.

Assess the competitive dynamics in the life insurance segment.

Identify growth opportunities and market dynamics in key product categories.

Key Topics Covered:

Executive Summary

Economy Overview

Regulatory and Compliance

Key Market Trends

Trends and KPIs

Line of Business

Distribution Channel

Competitive Landscape

Deals and Jobs

Company Profiles

Company Coverage:

IAG New Zealand

Southern Cross Medical Care Society

Vero Insurance New Zealand

AIA New Zealand

AA Insurance

QBE Insurance New Zealand

FMG Insurance

Partners Life

Tower

Resolution Life Australasia

Hollard Insurance

nib New Zealand

Chubb Life Insurance New Zealand

Asteron Life New Zealand

AIG Insurance New Zealand

Fidelity Life Assurance

Chubb Insurance New Zealand

Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance New Zealand

Vero Liability Insurance

Zurich Australian Insurance (New Zealand)

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/lqdopz

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.




DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bybit , the worlds second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, is launching the Futures Bot Clash - a high-stakes showdown where strategy meets automation. With a prize pool of up to 100,000 USDT, participants will battle it out using Bybits powerful Futures trading bots, aiming for the top of the leaderboard.

The Battle of the Bots Begins

Set to run from Feb. 28 to March 31, 2025, the competition offers traders a chance to put their bot strategies to the test in a contest of skill and precision. Participants will join one of three Futures Bot Squads - Futures Combo, Futures Martingale, or Futures Grid - and compete across multiple leaderboards to maximize their earnings.

The event features two squad leaderboards and one individual leaderboard, with top traders rewarded based on performance. Additionally, traders can participate in the Predict & Win segment, where 1,000 lucky voters will share in a portion of the 5% Prediction Pool by correctly forecasting the winning squad.

Prize Pool Breakdown

The 100,000 USDT prize pool will be distributed among different categories:

Squad Rankings (70%)  The best-performing squad claims 40% of the total pool, with 20% and 10% allocated to the second and third place, respectively.

 The best-performing squad claims of the total pool, with and allocated to the second and third place, respectively. Top Traders by Volume (25%)  The most active traders will receive a share of the rewards based on their trading volume.

 The most active traders will receive a share of the rewards based on their trading volume. Predict & Win (5%)  Traders who correctly predict the champion squad will split this portion of the prize pool.



To be eligible for rewards, participants must meet a minimum Futures trading volume of $10,000 and maintain an account balance of at least 1,000 USDT throughout the competition.

Raising the Stakes

The total prize pool will scale based on overall trading volume. The minimum pool of 50,000 USDT will be unlocked once the combined trading volume reaches $800 million, increasing to the full 100,000 USDT as milestones up to $1.5 billion are met.

"Bybits Futures Bot Clash is a game-changer for automated trading enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity for users to test their bot strategies in a competitive setting, while also rewarding top traders and smart forecasters, said Joan Han, Sales and Marketing Director at Bybit. "With the potential to win a share of 100,000 USDT, traders have every reason to bring their A-game."

Bybit continues to innovate in the crypto trading landscape, providing users with cutting-edge tools to optimize their trading strategies. The Futures Bot Clash offers a competitive environment, where the sharpest traders and most effective bots will rise to the top.

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the worlds second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 60 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com .

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com

For updates, please follow: Bybit's Communities and Social Media

Contact

Head of PR

Tony Au

Bybit

media@bybit.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/25becf21-7c08-45fa-8fa4-7c571bdf2c01
NEW YORK, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Foot health is a critical, yet often overlooked, component of overall wellness. From supporting daily movement to reducing stress on joints, taking care of our feet can significantly impact how we feel and function in everyday life. Recently, Lifestyle and wellness expert Christine Bibbo Herr has teamed up with Hike Footwear on a nationwide media tour to share valuable insights into maintaining foot health, managing foot pain, and finding footwear that supports a healthy lifestyle.

Why Foot Health Matters

With 3 out of 4 Americans suffering from foot pain, its time to pay more attention to how we care for our feet. According to Christine, "When we take care of our feet, it can have a positive ripple effect on how we feel, from reducing aches and pains to improving overall mobility." Poor foot health can lead to a variety of issues, from knee and back pain to compromised posture and balance. Footwear plays a major role in maintaining foot health, and barefoot-style shoes, like those from Hike Footwear, are designed to promote natural foot movement, which helps alleviate pain and improve alignment.

How Barefoot Shoes Can Help with Pain Relief

Unlike traditional cushioned shoes, which often restrict natural foot movement, barefoot shoes work with the body to strengthen foot muscles, improve balance, and reduce bunion pressure. The zero-drop design of barefoot shoes keeps your toes and heels level, aligning your spine properly and reducing strain on your knees and back, Christine explains. Plus, the thin, flexible sole allows your feet to sense the ground, helping them develop strength and stability.

Christine recommends two popular models from Hike Footwearthe HF Cloud and Loraxwhich are lightweight and supportive, perfect for walking, running errands, or traveling. She recently brought them on a tropical vacation, where they served her well during morning yoga sessions and light workouts. Theyre easy to pack, machine-washable, and incredibly versatile, Christine notes.

For those facing colder climates, the Azura and Lorax Winter Models offer the same benefits as the regular designs, with added weather protection and warmth, allowing users to enjoy natural foot movement without sacrificing comfort in colder weather. Hike Footwear also offers options for children, designed to promote healthy foot development and improve balance, perfect for everyday play and outdoor adventures.

Where to Learn More

By taking early action and choosing the right footwear, you can prevent years of chronic pain. The right shoes dont just manage symptomsthey help restore natural foot function and improve mobility.

For more information on maintaining foot health and exploring the benefits of barefoot shoes, visit hike-footwear.com

About Christine Bibbo Herr

Always at the forefront of fashion, beauty, and fitness, Christine attended the world-renowned Fashion Institute Of Technology. She has spent more than a decade as a New York fashion editor/director for various national glossies including; Health, Real Simple, Family Circle, Rachael Ray, Shape en Espanol and The Knot, all leading to the position as Fashion Director for the legendary Good Housekeeping. Christine was the contributing editor and spokesperson for Life & Style Magazine, a style and beauty contributor for Today.com, one of the co-hosts on Off The Gram Podcast and is currently a fashion contributor at Bella Magazine.

Whether on TV segments, fashion spreads, advertising campaigns, runway shows, or fitness projects, Christine has styled a vast range of people, celebrities, and brands. Her passion for her work and a healthy lifestyle have taken her from inside the fashion industry to the yoga mat, covering the hottest fashion trends and wellness crazes.

Christine is an independent stylist and widely-followed lifestyle blogger and spokesperson at NYCPretty.com. This is where she provides readers with current fashion, beauty, and fitness inspiration for girls and women everywhere.

* YourUpdateTV is a property of D S Simon Media. The video included and release was part of a media tour that was produced by D S Simon Media on behalf of Hike Footwear

Media Contact:

Michael ODonnell

D S Simon Media

212-736-2727

modonnell@dssimon.com

A video accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8c0c3181-30bb-4f47-bf94-a7c8d69e18f4
REDMOND, Wash., March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In 2024, BCMI Corp. celebrated 10 years in business, and another significant milestone. The technology leader and provider of cloud-based mobile software for concrete and bulk materials producers more than doubled its cloud-based ready-mix dispatch footprint across the U.S.

Industry-leading companies have adopted BCMIs cloud-based system, beginning with Smith Ready Mix in Valparaiso, Indiana, followed by many others including Miles Sand & Gravel, Geneva Rock and Sunroc (both Clyde Companies subsidiaries), BARD Materials and GCC. These producers and others have added BCMIs dispatch as part of the end-to-end software platform that includes extensive operational and customer KPIs, quoting and sales tools, and customer invoicing.

In 2025, BCMI expects its dispatch footprint to expand at an accelerated rate. Implementations are scheduled for large vertical materials producers, imi and Titan America as well as regional ready mix leaders including Consumers Concrete and Zignego.

One of the great advantages of BCMI Dispatch is that any change or update from our dispatchers and drivers is instantly shared across our companyand with our customersthrough the BCMI mobile apps, BARD Materials Vice President of Operations Chad Thier says. BCMI truly partners with producers to shape a concrete dispatch system that leverages the best technology available, ensuring it meets the needs of the industry.

The BCMI Dispatch system has the advantage of being cloud-native, meaning it is developed using the most current technology rather than retrofitting older dispatch systems with hardware that must be maintained by producers. BCMI integrates with related systems, such as truck GPS and accounting programs, through API (Application Programming Interface) connections entirely in the cloud. This allows materials producers to choose their own best-in-class solution set to meet their business needs.

After an extensive, six-month evaluation, we concluded that BCMIs combination of current product offerings, plus the opportunity to take part in the continued development of the product, was the best fit for what imi needs to service our customers and our internal teams, imi President and CEO Pete Lyons says.

BCMIs leadership draws on more than 100 years of collective experience in serving the concrete and bulk materials market, making the team uniquely qualified to understand and address the needs of the industry. We have all experienced the pain of struggling with outdated technology, and it makes us even more passionate about creating better tools for producers and contractors, BCMI Vice President of Customer Success Janeen ODell says. Things like mobile apps and eTicketing are old news in other industries, and theres no reason our industry shouldnt use them to make our day-to-day jobs easier.

According to BCMI Co-founder and CEO Craig Yeack, Our product team is laser focused on innovation, including aggressive research and development of AI tools for materials producers. In the next few years, well see accelerated growth in technology, faster than weve seen in decades. We look forward to being the industrys trusted partner as we navigate these changes together.

About BCMI

BCMI Corp.s mobile software empowers bulk construction material producers to improve business processes. BCMIs performance analytics, interactive communication tools and AI-assisted dispatch keep materials producers and contractors aligned with real-time business solutions. For more on our cloud-based BCMI Dispatch, Material Pro and Material Now apps, visit www.bcmicorp.com.

Media Contact

Jennifer Jensen, BCMI Media and PR Specialist: Jennifer.jensen@bcmicorp.com
Springfield, Mo., March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) is strengthening its awareness efforts with the fourth United in Blue installation in Washington, D.C. and nationwide. From March 9 to March 22, more than 27,000 blue flags will cover the National Mall, each symbolizing a person under 50 projected to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) in the year 2030. This staggering display stands as a powerful call to action, highlighting the urgency of this rising health crisis and the need for increased awareness, prevention, and early detection.

In 2025, United in Blue goes beyond a visual statementvisitors can engage with the Wall of Champions, now featuring a photo mosaic honoring the resilience and remembrance of those impacted by CRC. The installation will also include a DUDE Wipes Comfort Tent, offering a space to rest for the volunteers placing flags. Returning this year are the Bemis Toilet Seats, a striking and educational component that provides passersby with critical information about CRC risk factors and prevention.

This powerful installation is made possible through a collective effort of 43 partner organizations and nearly 400 volunteers, who will come together to place each flag by hand. Their dedication brings this striking tribute to life, transforming the National Mall into a space for awareness and action.

In addition to the powerful United in Blue installation on the National Mall, Fight CRC is expanding its impact nationwide with 124 Local Flag Kits across 34 states throughout March. These kits empower individuals, advocates, and communities to bring the message of colorectal cancer awareness to their own neighborhoods. Supporters can set up their flags in high-visibility locationswhether in front of homes, workplaces, local clinics, parks, or schoolsensuring the urgency of this disease reaches far beyond Washington, D.C.

As part of its March awareness campaign, Fight CRC is rallying partners from diverse communities and sectors to unite in the fight against colorectal cancer. A rally will take place at the United in Blue installation from 6-7:30pm ET on March 10, bringing together advocates, survivors, members of Congress, and leaders in the field, which will be live-streamed on the Fight CRCs Facebook Page.

Partner organizations supporting this initiative include:

American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network

American Cancer Society National Colorectal Cancer Roundtable

American College of Gastroenterology

American Gastroenterological Association

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

AMSURG

Association of Black Gastroenterologists and Hepatologists

California Colorectal Cancer Coalition

Cancer Support Community

CancerCare

Cheeky Charity

Colon Cancer Coalition

Colon Cancer Prevention Project

Colon Cancer Stars

COLONTOWN

Colorectal Cancer Alliance

Colorectal Cancer Equity Foundation

FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered

Georgia CORE

GH Foundation

GI Cancers Alliance

Healthline

Hitting Cancer Below the Belt

Lead from Behind

Man Up to Cancer

Mountains of Hope | WVU Cancer Institute

National Alliance for Hispanic Health

National Comprehensive Cancer Network

National LGBT Cancer Network

Nebraska Cancer Coalition

No-Shave November

ONE CANCER PLACE

PALTOWN Development Foundation

Prevent Cancer Foundation

The Ruesch Center for the Cure of Gastrointestinal Cancers | Georgetown University

Tell5Friends

The Blue Hat Foundation

The Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer

The Colon Club

The Gloria Borges WunderGlo Foundation

The Raymond Foundation

United Ostomy Associations of America

Worldclass

A 2024 report from the American Cancer Society (ACS) underscores the urgency of this fight, revealing alarming trends: colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men under 50 and the second leading cause in young women, following breast cancer. Despite these rising rates, there has been little progress in developing effective treatment options, and disparities in incidence, mortality, and survivorship persist. However, colorectal cancer is largely preventable with routine screening and early detection. Thats why Fight CRC prioritizes raising awareness and advocating for increased access to screeningbecause catching this disease early saves lives.

United in Blue is more than a call to actionits a rallying cry. This powerful event puts on full display whats at stake: people's lives. Through a striking visual tribute, United in Blue honors those impacted by colorectal cancer while demanding urgent action. It serves as both a memorial and a movement, urging policymakers to increase research funding and implement a comprehensive plan to change the trajectory of this disease.

"Colorectal cancer is rising at an alarming rate in young adults, and we cant afford to ignore the data, said Anjee Davis, CEO of Fight CRC. Our advocacy efforts are year-round, but this March, we are amplifying the call for action. Hundreds of advocates are heading to Washington, D.C., to push for increased research funding. The United in Blue flag installation is a powerful visual reminder of the thousands of lives impacted by this disease, reinforcing why we must act now. Education, awareness, prevention, and early detection are core to our mission, and we bring these messages to D.C. to be loud, visible, and drive change through advocacy. We owe it to patients and families to fight for solutions that will change the trajectory of this disease."

Fight CRCs United in Blue installation is sponsored by Amgen, Braintree, Bristol Myers Squibb, Colorectal Cancer Equity Foundation, Daiichi Sankyo, DUDE Wipes, Exact Sciences, Genentech, Geneoscopy, Guardant Health, Haystack Oncology, Merck, Natera, and Taiho Oncology.

For more information about how to get involved during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, visit fightcolorectalcancer.org.

Attachment
RUSTON, La., March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Origin Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE: OBK) (Origin), the holding company for Origin Bank, today announced that five members of its Board of Directors will not stand for reelection at the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, decreasing the size of the Board from 16 to 11 directors. The Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board, including Origins lead independent director, has extensively studied the optimal Board size and composition in relation to the Companys continued growth. Todays announcement reflects the Boards strategic initiative to reduce its size to better align with governance best practices. The five directors not standing for election are Jay Dyer, Farrell Malone, Lori Sirman, Elizabeth Solender and Steve Taylor.

Each of these directors has made invaluable contributions to our Company and we are grateful for their service, said Drake Mills, Chairman, President and CEO of Origin Bancorp, Inc. Their expertise helped Origin through periods of significant transformation and growth. It is a credit to their stewardship that these directors each recognize that right-sizing the Board is in the Companys best interests moving forward. On behalf of the entire organization, Id like to thank them for their service to Origin and their guidance to our Board and management.

Based on the recommendation of the Boards Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, the incumbent directors to be nominated for election at the 2025 Annual Meeting will be: Daniel Chu, James DAgostino, Jr., James Davison, Jr., A. LaVerne Edney, Meryl Farr, Richard Gallot, Jr., Stacey Goff, Cecil Jones, Michael Jones, Gary Luffey and Drake Mills. The Company expects to hold its 2025 Annual Meeting on April 23, 2025.

Michael Jones, Chair of the Boards Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, added, With these changes, we will have a smaller, more efficient Board of Directors, consistent with our commitment to best-in-class corporate governance. We have been intentional in the composition of a Board that will continue to be made up of highly qualified directors who each bring relevant backgrounds and skills to support management in driving the Companys strategy and future growth, including experience in the banking and financial services industries as well as in executive leadership, strategic and financial planning, and risk management.

The changes to the Board composition are not being made as a result of any disagreement between the departing directors and the Company.

About Origin

Origin Bancorp, Inc. is a financial holding company headquartered in Ruston, Louisiana. Origins wholly owned bank subsidiary, Origin Bank, was founded in 1912 in Choudrant, Louisiana. Deeply rooted in Origins history is a culture committed to providing personalized relationship banking to businesses, municipalities, and personal clients to enrich the lives of the people in the communities it serves. Origin provides a broad range of financial services and currently operates more than 55 locations in Dallas/Fort Worth, East Texas, Houston, North Louisiana, Mississippi, South Alabama and the Florida Panhandle. For more information, visit www.origin.bank.

Contact Information

Investor Relations

Chris Reigelman

318-497-3177

chris@origin.bank

Media Contact

Ryan Kilpatrick

318-232-7472

rkilpatrick@origin.bank
CHICAGO, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rate, a leader in fintech mortgage solutions, announces that Liz Ryan has rejoined the company as a top-producing manager in the Northeast. Ryan, a seasoned mortgage professional, brings a wealth of experience and a strong track record of success in helping loan officers grow their businesses through new technology, competitive rates, and strategic marketing strategies.

I left Rate in 2022 after being here for 10 years. I returned in August of 2024 and was blown away by the marketing, technology, and ease of doing loans. I cant believe how much more is offered to loan officers at Rate, said Ryan. I am so happy that I made the move back. I missed the camaraderie and my Rate family.

Victor Ciardelli, CEO of Rate, expressed his enthusiasm for Ryans return. Im so glad Liz took my call and decided to return to the Rate family. Her leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue to grow and support loan officers across the region.

Ryan is a founding member of Capital Gains BNI in Amesbury, MA, and an active member of the Amesbury Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, and the Newburyport Womens League. She is also an affiliate member of the North Shore Realtor Association.

About Rate

Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate has over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Honors and awards include Best Mortgage Lender for First-Time Homebuyers by NerdWallet for 2023; HousingWire's Tech100 award for the company's industry-leading FlashClose digital mortgage platform in 2020, MyAccount in 2022, and Language Access Program in 2023; No. 2 ranking in Scotsman Guide's 2022 list of Top Retail Mortgage Lenders; the most Scotsman Guide Top Originators for 11 consecutive years; Chicago Agent Magazine's Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years; and Chicago Tribune's Top Workplaces list for seven straight years. Visit rate.com for more information.

Media Contact

press@rate.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/06386e38-2396-46ff-905c-0c14609473d0
NORWOOD, Mass., March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MariMed Inc. (MariMed, or the Company) (CSE: MRMD) (OTCQX: MRMD), a leading multi-state cannabis operator, announced today it has completed its acquisition of First State Compassion Center (FSCC), the leading cannabis operator in Delaware, in accordance with the terms of the previously announced Omnibus Agreement entered into with FSCC in July 2023. The acquisition integrates FSCCs cultivation and processing facilities, and two dispensaries into MariMeds fully vertical operations, further enhancing the Companys revenue and profitability.

The approval of MariMed to become the owner of FSCC was facilitated by the state permitting FSCC to transition from a not-for-profit to a for-profit business. The timing is ideal for MariMed, as Delaware is expected to commence adult-use cannabis sales later this year. A recent report by the state estimated that Delawares legal cannabis market could grow to $215 million in annual sales.

MariMed and FSCC have worked together since 2014, when MariMed assisted FSCC in securing its original cannabis license and began providing FSCC with management and real estate services. FSCC distributes MariMeds award-winning portfolio of brands in Delaware. According to Lit Alerts, MariMeds Betty's Eddies fruit chews and Vibations drink mix are the top-selling edible and beverage brands, respectively, in Delaware. Natures Heritage flower, which FSCC began selling in Delaware in the spring of 2024, is already number four among flower brands sold in the state.

Becoming the owner of FSCC completes an important component of MariMeds strategic growth plan. With this development, the Company has now completed the acquisition of its previously managed businesses in Massachusetts, Illinois, Maryland, and Delaware, the results of each of which are now consolidated in the Companys financial statements.

We are thrilled to welcome FSCC to the Marimed family, said Jon Levine, MariMeds Chief Executive Officer. We have worked closely with FSCCs incredible team to support its growth trajectory from the very beginning, resulting in it being the top operator in Delaware today. We expect by fully integrating its operations, we will further build FSCCs and our brands dominance in the market, while also improving our balance sheet.

ABOUT MARIMED

MariMed Inc. is a leading multi-state cannabis operator, known for developing and managing state-of-the-art cultivation, production, and retail facilities. Our award-winning portfolio of cannabis brands, including Betty's Eddies, Bubbys Baked, Vibations, InHouse, and Natures Heritage, sets us apart as an industry leader. These trusted brands, crafted with quality and innovation, are recognized and loved by consumers across the country. With a commitment to excellence, MariMed continues to drive growth and set new standards in the cannabis industry. For additional information, visit www.marimedinc.com .

IMPORTANT CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

The information in this release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to several risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this release, including without limitation statements regarding projected financial results for 2024, including managements belief that it will report its fifth consecutive year of positive operating cash flow, anticipated openings of dispensaries and facilities, timing of regulatory approvals, plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Without limiting the foregoing, the words anticipates, believes, estimates, expects, expectations, intends, may, plans, and other similar language, whether in the negative or affirmative, are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words.

Forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and assumptions regarding our business, timing of regulatory approvals, the ability to obtain new licenses, business prospects and strategic growth plan, and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated in these forward-looking statements due to various risks, uncertainties, and other important factors, including, among others, reductions in customer spending, our ability to recruit and retain key personnel, and disruptions from the integration efforts of acquired companies.

These factors are not intended to be an all-encompassing list of risks and uncertainties that may affect our business and results of operations. These statements are not a guarantee of future performance and involve risk and uncertainties that are difficult to predict, including, among other factors, changes in demand for the Companys services and products, changes in the law and its enforcement, and changes in the economic environment. Additional information regarding these and other factors can be found in our reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. In providing these forward-looking statements, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update these statements publicly or otherwise, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

All trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

Media Contact:

Zach Galasso

DPA Communications

Email: zach@dpacommunications.com

Phone: (978) 604-5423

Company Contact:

Howard Schacter, Chief Communications Officer

Email: hschacter@marimedinc.com

Phone: (781) 277-0007
SAN DIEGO, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers or acquirers of Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc. (NYSE: IIPR) securities between February 27, 2024 and December 19, 2024, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), have until Tuesday, March 18, 2025 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit. Captioned Giraudon v. Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc., No. 25-cv-00182 (D. Md.), the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit charges Innovative Industrial Properties as well as certain of Innovative Industrial Properties top executives with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit, please provide your information here:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/cases-innovative-industrial-properties-class-action-lawsuit-iipr.html

You can also contact attorneys J.C. Sanchez or Jennifer N. Caringal of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at info@rgrdlaw.com.

CASE ALLEGATIONS: Innovative Industrial Properties is a self-advised Maryland corporation focused on the acquisition, ownership, and management of specialized properties leased to experienced, state-licensed operators for their regulated cannabis facilities.

The Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit alleges that defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Innovative Industrial Properties was experiencing significant declines in rent and property-management fees in connection with certain customer leases; (ii) the foregoing would likely impair Innovative Industrial Properties ability to maintain funds from operations (FFO) and revenue growth; and (iii) accordingly, Innovative Industrial Properties leasing operations were less profitable than Innovative Industrial Properties had represented to investors.

The Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit further alleges that on November 6, 2024, Innovative Industrial Properties reported its third quarter of 2024 financial results, disclosing normalized FFO per share of $2.02, missing the consensus estimate of $2.03 and declining from $2.09 in the same period in 2023, and revenue of $76.5 million, missing the consensus estimate of $77.5 million and declining from $77.8 million in the same period in 2023. The complaint alleges that Innovative Industrial Properties stated that the year-over-year decrease was due to a $3.0 million decline in contractual rent and property management fees in the third quarter related to properties that Innovative Industrial Properties regained possession of since June 2023; a decline of $1.3 million due to rent received but not recognized in rental revenues resulting from the re-classifications of two sales-type leases beginning January 1, 2024; and $1.3 million of contractually due rent and property management fees that were not collected during the current quarter. On this news, the price of Innovative Industrial Properties stock fell more than 10%, according to the complaint.

Then, on December 20, 2024, the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit alleges that Innovative Industrial Properties announced that on the previous day, PharmaCann Inc., the tenant for eleven properties that Innovative Industrial Properties owns  and the revenues from which represented 17% of Innovative Industrial Properties total rental revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024  defaulted on its obligations to pay rent for the month of December under six of its eleven leases, for properties located in Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. On this news, the price of Innovative Industrial Properties stock fell nearly 23%, according to the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit.

THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased or acquired Innovative Industrial Properties securities during the Class Period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the Innovative Industrial Properties class action lawsuit.

ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the worlds leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud cases. Our Firm has been #1 in the ISS Securities Class Action Services rankings for six out of the last ten years for securing the most monetary relief for investors. We recovered $6.6 billion for investors in securities-related class action cases  over $2.2 billion more than any other law firm in the last four years. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs firms in the world and the Firms attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest securities class action recovery ever  $7.2 billion  in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information:

https://www.rgrdlaw.com/services-litigation-securities-fraud.html

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices.

Contact:

Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP

J.C. Sanchez, Jennifer N. Caringal

655 W. Broadway, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101

800-449-4900

info@rgrdlaw.com
VANCOUVER, March 03, 2025 - Hi-View Resources Inc. ('HI-VIEW' OR THE 'COMPANY') (CSE: HVW; OTCQB: HVWRF; FSE: B63) is pleased to announce that it has appointed Mr. Arif Merali, CSC, CPH, as a strategic advisor to the Company.

Mr. Merali has been a director of several public companies and is currently on the board of directors of Bessor Minerals and previously served on the board of CMC Metals Ltd. Mr. Merali was previously an investment advisor at Canaccord Capital and holds the CSC and CPH designations and has been registered with IIROC as a Registered Representative. Mr. Merali currently holds consulting roles in public and private companies across a variety of industries with over 30 years of experience in the technology and natural resource sectors.

Hi-View Resources CEO and Director Robert Nick Horsley states, "We would like to welcome Mr. Merali as a strategic advisor during this pivotal and exciting time for the Company and the sector. The addition of Mr. Merali's 30 years of industry experience strengthens the Company's potential access to capital as well as its business network."

Private Placement

The Company also announces a non-brokered private placement of up to 5,000,000 units (the "Units"), at a price of $0.05 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to $250,000 (the "Offering"). The Units will consist of one common share of the Company ("Share") and one share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each Warrant will be exercisable by the warrant holder to acquire one (1) additional Share at a price of CAD$0.10 for a period of 24 months from the closing of the Offering.

Hi-View will use the net proceeds from the Offering for general working capital and marketing and investor relations. The issuance of securities in connection with this Offering will be subject to Canadian Securities Exchange approval and the securities will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months plus one day from the date of issuance in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.

In connection with the Offering, the Company may pay to qualified finders an 8% cash finder's fee and an 8% finder's fee payable in non-transferable share purchase warrants. Each warrant related to the finder's fees for the Offering entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Share at a price of $0.10 per Share for a period of 24 months from closing of the Offering.

Insiders of the Company may participate in the Offering, which would constitute a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemption from the formal valuation requirements of Section 5.4 of MI 61-101 pursuant to Subsection 5.5(a) of MI 61-101 and the exemption from the minority approval requirements of Section 5.6 of MI 61-101 pursuant to Subsection 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101.

Hi-View Resources CEO Robert Nick Horsley states, "Gold prices are hitting all-time highs and copper is in high demand as a critical metal in the Green Energy Transition. We are well positioned and excited to continue our exploration in the prolific Toodoggone region following significant 2024 sampling discoveries on our Lawyers claim blocks next to the Amarc Resources AuRORA discovery.

Neighboring Thesis Gold Inc. ("TAU") recently raised $10 Million by way of brokered private placement and will be actively drilling to expand their existing mineral resource of over 4 million ounces of Gold equivalent next to our100% owned Golden Stranger property.

We are planning an active 2025 exploration season, focusing on both our newly acquired Babine Gold and Copper project and our Gold-Silver Projects in the prolific Toodoggone region. Furthermore, the Company will continue to look to acquire new exciting opportunities to add to its highly prospective portfolio of Gold and Copper exploration projects."

Planning has commenced for a follow up exploration program on the Company's 9,175 Hectare ("Ha") Golden Stranger Project and Lawyers South, East and West claims located in British Columbia's prolific Toodoggone-Kemess porphyry Cu-Au region of north-central British Columbia ("Toodoggone").

Hi-View's properties are contiguous to Thesis Gold Inc. ("TAU") Lawyers-Ranch project that has reported significant drilling intercepts and extensive continued drilling campaigns and currently hosts a Total Mineral Resource of 4.0 million ounces (Moz) gold equivalent (AuEq)1,2 (Measured and Indicated) at 1.51 grams per tonne (g/t) AuEq1,2 and 727,000 oz AuEq1,2 (Inferred) at 1.82 g/t Au Eq1,2 (See Thesis News Release dated September 5th 2024). To the Southeast, Hi-View's properties are contiguous to Amarc's JOY Copper-Gold district project that recently announced significant drilling discoveries at the Au-rich porphyry AuRORA Target (See Amarc News Release dated January 20th, 2025).

See project page for more information: Toodoggone Mining District - Hi-View Resources





Figure 1. Hi-View Resources Proximity to Thesis and Lawyers Gold Deposits





Figure 2. Golden Stranger Drill Core

Quality Assurance and Control

Results from samples were analyzed at ALS Global Laboratories (Geochemistry Division) in Vancouver, Canada (an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited facility). The sampling program was undertaken by APEX personnel under the direction of Emily Laycock, M.Sc., P.Geo. A secure chain of custody is maintained in transporting and storing of all samples. Gold was assayed using a fire assay with atomic emission spectrometry and gravimetric finish when required (+10 g/t Au). Rock chip samples from outcrop/bedrock are selective by nature and may not be representative of the mineralization hosted on the project.

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael Dufresne, M.Sc, P.Geol., P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument (NI) 43-101. Mr. Dufresne is independent of Hi-View Resources Inc.

About Hi-View Resources Inc.

Hi-View is a mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral properties in Canada. The Company, through its subsidiary holds a 100% interest in the newly acquired Babine Copper-Gold property as well as interests in the Golden Stranger Property and the Lawyers West, East, South projects, together with claims acquired directly through staking, all located in the Toodoggone region of northern BC, prospective for gold, silver, and copper. The collective holdings cover 9,749 hectares.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

"R. Nick Horsley"

R. Nick Horsley, CEO

For further information, please contact:

Hi-View Resources Inc.

Howard Milne - President

Email: hdmcap@shaw.ca

Telephone: (604) 377-8994

Website: www.hiviewresources.com

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS:

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this new release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Forward-looking statements in this news release includes statements related to the proposed Transaction and related matters. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

1,2 AuEq in Thesis News Release dated September 5th, 2024 is defined in the mineral resources as being Au=Ag/80.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/194165eb-d43b-4ade-bb37-f748e152742f

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/89e6f279-acfa-4ff0-88ab-9646e7ff39a8
VANCOUVER, March 3, 2025 - Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) ("Giant Mining" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has completed initial drill targeting in conjunction with Exploration Technologies Inc. ("ExploreTech") for the upcoming Phase One Drill Program. In partnership with the Giant Mining technical team, ExploreTech used its Engine AI and cloud computing platform to generate optimized drill plans and targets which focus on breccia pipes and large low-resistivity anomalies. See About section for additional details on the ExploreTech methodology.

"After numerous, detailed discussions with the Majuba team, we initiated a compute process that took approximately one full week of 24/7 cloud computation. Serious computing power went into processing the wealth of data at Majuba, and we are very satisfied with the results. We look forward to continuing our collaboration over the next months, with such a talented team at Giant Mining, and on the highly promising Majuba Mountain area.", said Tyler Hall, President of Exploration Technologies.

"We are thrilled with the results of ExploreTech's initial modeling. Preparations are beginning now for the 2025 exploration and development drilling season at Majuba Hill. With over 100 Drill holes to date and over 80,000 feet of drilling at the Majuba Hill Copper-Silver-Gold deposit we truly believe 2025 will be the year we take the project to the next level.", said David Greenway, President and CEO of Giant Mining Corp.

ExploreTech will be attending Giant Mining Corp's Booth #3007 at PDAC on Monday, March 3rd, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM EST.

The results provide insight into the large copper target generated by the last 4 years of exploration by the Company. The 2025 Phase 1 drill program will consist of 4 drill holes for a total of 4,400 feet of drilling of 1,100 feet (335 meters) per hole. The Company has allowed for drilling to continue up to 1,600 feet (487 meters) per hole at the technical team's discretion. The drilling will follow up hole MHB-30 ("MHB-30") drilled in 2024 which encountered high-grade copper-silver mineralization. ExploreTech took into consideration the proposed 2025 drilling campaigns along with previous exploration data. This data consists of over 80 previous drill holes and over 83,000 feet of drilling, along with the results of previous extensive surface sampling, geological mapping, geophysics, underground sampling, rigorous studies, and analysis.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1. 3D Model of Majuba Hill, showing surface geological map and road access.

About Exploration Technologies Inc. (ExploreTech)

ExploreTech's AI approach is specifically designed to combine surface geology and drilling results with computationally intensive remodeling of existing geophysical datasets to optimize targeting of covered targets. The process quickly generates thousands of solutions that cluster on the best fits between the geological and geophysical data and then generates drillhole trajectories designed to cut those clusters most effectively.

ExploreTech first combines the geological concept with AI geophysical simulation to identify and locate where the source of a geophysical anomaly actually lies. This is done by testing thousands of possible explanations (models) for anomalies measured at the surface and selecting only those that closely match real-world geophysics.

The selected models of the combined geology and geophysics cluster around the most likely location of the anomaly. The program then evaluates the clusters in three dimensions to determine the optimal drilling trajectory to pierce as many of the target anomalies as possible. The entire process can be rerun as drill results for specific targets, or additional geophysical surveying, adds new information allowing improved vectoring to the best mineralized parts of a given ore system. This use of AI to reveal and reinforce target anomalies in existing geophysical datasets is a significant new exploration tool and has already been applied in several cases, some are viewable at ExploreTech's website www.exploretech.ai.

About PDAC

The World's Premier Mineral Exploration & Mining Convention is the leading convention for people, governments, companies, and organizations connected to mineral exploration. In addition to meeting more than 1,100 exhibitors, 2,500 investors and 26,000 attendees in person in 2024, participants could also attend programming, courses and networking events. The annual convention is held in Toronto, Canada. It has grown in size, stature and influence since it began in 1932 and today is the event of choice for the world's mineral industry. For more information and/or to register for the conference please visit: https://www.pdac.ca/convention.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 2. Drilling Equipment on Site during previous drill campaigns

Some of Majuba Hill's critically important characteristics are as follows:

Location: Nevada - The #1 mining jurisdiction on the planet according to the Fraser Institute

Project Size: 9,684 Acres

Infrastructure: The Majuba Hill property is 113 road km (70 miles) southwest of Winnemucca, Nevada, and 251 km (156 miles) northeast of Reno. Access is by well-maintained county roads from the Imlay, Nevada exit on U.S. Interstate 80, and traveling westward 23 miles. People, Roads, Power and Water are the basic elements when considering infrastructure and Majuba Hill already has a solid infrastructure foundation for building a large facility which will provide significant savings compared to more remote projects.

History: Historical Producer

Drilling: 82,614 feet of drilling to date. Rough replacement value of drilling USD $10.4 Million in development costs.

Mineralization: The project shows indications of a potentially large Cu - Ag +/- Au mineralized body with many features in common with both large porphyry copper, silver, and gold projects.

Expandability: The IP survey, deep drilling, and step-out drilling indicate significant expansion potential, with mineralization open in all directions.

Fully Financed: Secured funding for 2025 Drilling Campaign

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by E.L. "Buster" Hunsaker III, CPG 8137, a non-independent consulting geologist who is a "Qualified Person" as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43- 101").

About Giant Mining Corp.

Giant Mining Corp. is focused on identifying, acquiring, and advancing late-stage copper and copper/silver/gold projects to meet the growing global demand for critical metals. This demand is driven by initiatives like the Green New Deal in the United States and similar climate-focused programs worldwide, which require substantial amounts of copper, silver, and gold for electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure, and the modernization of clean and affordable energy systems.

The Company's flagship asset is the Majuba Hill Copper, Silver, and Gold District, located 156 miles (251 km) from Reno, Nevada. Majuba Hill is situated in a mining-friendly jurisdiction with supportive regulations and has the potential to become one of the next major copper deposits, critical for meeting the increasing need for this red metal.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

On Behalf of the Board of Giant Mining Corp.

"David Greenway"

David C. Greenway

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

E: info@giantminingcorp.com

P: 1 (236) 788-0643

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS

www.giantminingcorp.com

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Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward?looking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forward?looking statements are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward?looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward?looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

###

Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
VANCOUVER, March 3, 2025 - GGL Resources Corp. (TSX-V:GGL) ("GGL" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on the Le Champ copper-molybdenum-gold porphyry target at the road accessible Gold Point Project, Nevada optioned to Teck American Incorporated ("Teck"), a subsidiary of a leading Canadian resource company, Teck Resources Ltd.. (See news release date September 25, 2024).

Teck recently provided GGL with an update on exploration activities at the Le Champ porphyry target. A mapping program was executed in October 2024 that defined porphyry-style veining and alteration domains coincident with the IP chargeability and copper-molybdenum soil anomalies defined by GGL's previous work on the Le Champ porphyry target area.

A Notice of Intent (NOI) has been approved by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for construction of access roads and drill pads in support of a maiden drill program on the newly refined porphyry target areas. The drill program is scheduled to commence early Q2, 2025.

"GGL is excited to see Teck advance the Le Champ porphyry target with an in-depth, technically sound field program within only two months of signing the option agreement," states David Kelsch, President of GGL. "And now to be positioned to execute a maiden drill program within six months speaks to the caliber of work and the targets generated."

The broad IP chargeability/conductivity anomaly and copper-molybdenum soil anomalies defined by GGL's early generative field work correlate well with the key mapping criteria utilized by Teck to aid in drill hole targeting. (See news release date April 10, 2024). The following mapped characteristics support the upper potassic alteration envelope hypothesis:

High density sheeted to stockwork EDM (chalcopyrite with biotite selvage) and B type (K-feldspar vein haloes) vein densities fringed by zones of D veins (phyllic);

Strong secondary biotite alteration;

Syn- to early-mineral intrusions or mineralized transitional igneous-hydrothermal breccias;

Elevated volume % oxide after sulfide estimates within zones of highest vein density;

Elevated ratios of glass limonite (interpreted as chalcopyrite) to other limonite species are concurrent with all the above mentioned potassic features; and,

Distribution and volume % estimate of oxide sites including goethite, hematite, jarosite, and glass limonite coincident with the IP chargeability anomaly are a possible indication of remnant hypogene sulphides (chalcopyrite, bornite/magnetite, and pyrite) in a pre-weathering environment.

An extensive geochronological (age dating) sampling program included U-Pb, Zircon geochronology to understand the relationships between the mapped pre-, post- and syn- intrusive phases identified at Le Champ. The 167-159 Ma age range is consistent with syn-mineral dikes at the McArthur and Ann Mason deposits in the nearby Yerington District also in the Walker Lane Trend of Nevada.

The identification of two syn-mineral intrusive phases associated with hydrothermal alteration, mineralization and veining, the increase in secondary biotite and K-spar alteration proximal to known hydrothermal breccias and B-type veins, and the coincidence of classic D-type veins with sericite and clay alteration also supports the Le Champ porphyry copper target.

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Gold Point - High-Grade Gold Vein-Fault Systems

In addition to the Le Champ copper porphyry target optioned to Teck, GGL holds the high-grade vein-fault systems at the Gold Point Project. (See news release date February 19, 2025). The permitted and road accessible Gold Point Project is located 26 miles south of Goldfield, Nevada.

The gold mineralization occurs along veins with higher grades occurring as mineralized shoots at structural intersections in the five significant former mines (Orleans, Great Western, Lime Point, Cook, Grand Central) plus numerous smaller workings totaling at least 17 known to date.

GGL will continue to advance the claims containing the gold portion of the Gold Point project independently of the concurrent work conducted by Teck on the porphyry target.

Qualified Person

Technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Matthew R. Dumala, P.Eng., a geological engineer with Archer, Cathro & Associates (1981) Limited and a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101.

About GGL Resources Corp.

GGL is a seasoned, Canadian-based junior exploration company, focused on the exploration and advancement of under evaluated mineral assets in politically stable, mining friendly jurisdictions. The Company has optioned and wholly owned claims in the Gold Point district of the prolific Walker Lane Trend, Nevada. The Gold Point claims cover several gold-silver veins, five of which host past producing high-grade mines, as well as an exciting new porphyry target which is currently under option to Teck. The Company also owns the McConnell Project, which hosts mesothermal gold veins and an under explored porphyry copper-gold prospect in the Kemess District of north-central British Colombia. GGL also holds diamond royalties on mineral leases adjacent to the Gahcho Kue diamond mine and southwest of the Ekati diamond mine in the Northwest Territories.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"David Kelsch"

David Kelsch

President, COO and Director

For further information concerning GGL Resources Corp. or its various exploration projects please visit our website at www.gglresourcescorp.com or contact:

Investor Inquiries

Richard Drechsler

Corporate Communications

Tel: (604) 687-2522

NA Toll-Free: (888) 688-2522

rdrechsler@strategicmetalsltd.com

Corporate Information

Linda Knight

Corporate Secretary

Tel: (604) 688-0546

info@gglresourcescorp.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Information contained in this news release contains forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations; they are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "coincident", "aggressively", "in-depth", "broad", "consistent", "high", "elevated", "evaluated", "potential", "strong", "significant" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "may", "could" or "will" occur. GGL cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the control of GGL. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to exploration and development and the results thereof, including the results of the recently completed drill program, the impact on future mineral resource estimates, the potential for new discoveries, and the results of future metallurgical programs, as well as the ability of GGL to obtain additional financing, the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations, fluctuations in the prices of commodities, operating hazards and risks, competition and other risks and uncertainties, including those described in GGL's financial statements available under the GGL profile at www.sedarplus.ca. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, GGL undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

SOURCE: GGL Resources Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
Received $1.7 Billion in Cash Proceeds to Date in 20251

Newmont Corp. (NYSE: NEM, TSX: NGT, ASX: NEM, PNGX: NEM) ("Newmont" or the "Company") announced today that it has completed the previously disclosed sales of three non-core operations, including the Musselwhite and Eleonore operations in Canada and the Cripple Creek & Victor ("CC&V") operation in Colorado, USA.

"Today, I am pleased to announce the successful divestment of three more of our non-core assets, generating total after-tax cash proceeds of $1.7 billion before closing adjustments," said Tom Palmer, Newmont's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We look forward to completing the remaining two asset sales and expect to receive an approximate $0.8 billion in after-tax cash proceeds during the first half of 2025 for those assets. The closing of these transactions completes a significant portion of our strategic portfolio optimization, initiated in early-2024, and enables us to further strengthen our investment-grade balance sheet and continue returning capital to shareholders through ongoing share repurchases."

Total gross proceeds from announced divestitures are expected to total up to $4.3 billion, which includes $3.8 billion from non-core divestitures and $527 million from the sale of other investments.

Newmont expects to close the sale of its Akyem operation in Ghana and its Porcupine operation in Canada during the first half of 2025. As previously announced, the sale of these assets is expected to generate up to $1.4 billion in gross proceeds, detailed as follows:

Up to $1.0 billion from the sale of the Akyem operation, including $900 million in cash consideration due upon closing and a further $100 million is expected to be received upon the satisfaction of certain conditions.

Up to $425 million from the sale of the Porcupine operation, including $200 million in cash consideration and $75 million equity consideration due upon closing. The Company also expects to receive up to $150 million in deferred cash consideration.

About Newmont

Newmont is the world's leading gold company and a producer of copper, zinc, lead, and silver. The Company's world-class portfolio of assets, prospects and talent is anchored in favorable mining jurisdictions in Africa, Australia, Latin America & Caribbean, North America, and Papua New Guinea. Newmont is the only gold producer listed in the S&P 500 Index and is widely recognized for its principled environmental, social, and governance practices. Newmont is an industry leader in value creation, supported by robust safety standards, superior execution, and technical expertise. Founded in 1921, the Company has been publicly traded since 1925.

At Newmont, our purpose is to create value and improve lives through sustainable and responsible mining. To learn more about Newmont's sustainability strategy and initiatives, go to www.newmont.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by such sections and other applicable laws. Where a forward-looking statement expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. However, such statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, (i) expectations regarding the pending sales of Porcupine and Akyem, including, without limitation, expectations regarding timing and closing of the pending transactions, including receipt of required approvals and satisfaction of closing conditions; (ii) expectations regarding receipt of any deferred contingent cash consideration in the future and gross consideration estimates; (iii) future strategic portfolio optimization, (iv) future financial conditions and balance sheet strength, (v) future return of capital to shareholders, including share repurchases, and (vi) other statements regarding future events or results. Estimates or expectations of future events or results are based upon certain assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions include, but are not limited to: (i) certain exchange rate assumptions approximately consistent with current levels; (ii) certain price assumptions for gold, copper, silver, zinc, lead and oil; (iii) all closing conditions being satisfied, and (iv) conditions necessary for receipt of contingent consideration being met in the future. See the September 10, 2024 press release for further details re the agreement to divest Telfer and Havieron, the October 8, 2024 press release for further details re the agreement to divest Akyem, the November 18, 2024 press release for further details re the agreement to divest Musslewhite, the November 25, 2024 press release for further details re the agreement to divest Eleonore, the December 6, 2024 press release for further details re the agreement to divest CC&V, and the January 27, 2025 press release for further details re the agreement to divest Porcupine. Each are available on Newmont's website. For a discussion of risks and other factors that might impact future looking statements , see the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on February 21, 2025, under the heading "Risk Factors" (including without limitation under the subheading the headings "Assets held for sale may not ultimately be divested and we may not receive any or all deferred consideration" and "The Company's asset divestitures place demands on the Company's management and resources, the sale of divested assets may not occur as planned or at all, and the Company may not realize the anticipated benefits of such divestitures" ), available on the SEC website or at www.newmont.com. Investors are also cautioned that the extent to which the Company repurchases its shares, and the timing of such repurchases, will depend upon a variety of factors, including trading volume, market conditions, legal requirements, business conditions and other factors. The repurchase program may be discontinued at any time, and the program does not obligate the Company to acquire any specific number of shares of its common stock or to repurchase the full $2.0 billion amount during the authorization period. The Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly revisions to any "forward-looking statement," including, without limitation, outlook, to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Investors should not assume that any lack of update to a previously issued "forward-looking statement" constitutes a reaffirmation of that statement.

1 Represents after-tax cash proceeds before closing adjustments.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250303230880/en/

Contact

Investor Contact - Global

Neil Backhouse

investor.relations@newmont.com

Investor Contact - Asia Pacific

Natalie Worley

apac.investor.relations@newmont.com

Media Contact - Global

Shannon Lijek

globalcommunications@newmont.com
Toronto, March 3, 2025 - ONGold Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ONAU) (OTCQB: ONGRF) (the "Company" or "ONGold") is pleased to provide an update on exploration targets at the Monument Bay Gold project, located in northeastern Manitoba ("Monument Bay") recently acquired from Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. ("Agnico Eagle"). Monument bay is 100% owned by ONGold and is comprised of 136 mining claims covering 31,250 ha, is in the Stull Lake Greenstone Belt in Northeastern Manitoba (Figure 1). This claim group is contiguous to ONGold's Rapson Bay Gold project located in Northwestern Ontario. The Company has identified 5 high priority zones targeting gold mineralization to be the focus of 2025 on the ground exploration efforts. Additionally, the Company's board of directors authorized and approved the grant of restricted share units ("RSUs") to the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, effective February 28, 2025.

As announced on December 23, 2024, the Company purchased 100% of the interests in both the Monument Bay project and the Domain Project (the "Acquisition"). Since the Acquisition, the Company has initiated a comprehensive geological data review, and begun preparations for the resumption of exploration activities at the property in 2025. As announced on February 26, 2025, the Company has been invited to resume exploration at Monument Bay by the local Red Sucker Lake First Nation ("RSLFN") in parallel with community engagement according to the RSLFN consultation protocol. Monument Bay has not seen on the ground exploration activities since the last drilling program completed in April 2021 by Yamana Gold Ontario Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Agnico Eagle ("Yamana"). As part of the Acquisition, the Company also acquired an expansive fully serviced 40-person field base camp which the Company plans to run all future exploration programs from. Both newly identified as well as historical exploration targets require field investigations using modern techniques to unlock the full potential value at Monument Bay.

Kyle Stanfield CEO and Director of ONGold commented: "The recently completed geological compilation was undertaken using modern techniques applied to the expansive Monument Bay geological databases. As a result of this comprehensive review, we are excited to unveil five new high-priority exploration targets at Monument Bay. These zones represent significant potential for expanding our gold resource, and our integrated approach - leveraging modern exploration techniques coordinated with Red Sucker Lake First Nation - positions us well to unlock new value in 2025."

Monument Bay has had numerous mineral resources estimates completed by various Qualified Persons on behalf of various operators, which are no longer current under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). The most recent unpublished NI 43-101 Technical Report (2017) (the "Historical Report") for the Monument Bay Deposit (formally the Twin Lakes Deposit) (the "MB Deposit") identified 2.3 million gold ounces (58.0 million tonnes at an average grade of 1.24 g/t) in the "Measured" and "Indicated" Mineral Resources categories, and 720,000 gold ounces (24.4 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.92 g/t) in the "Inferred" Mineral Resources category. This includes both in-pit and underground ("UG") resources with cut off grades of 0.3 g/t gold and 4.0 g/t gold, respectively.

New Gold Exploration Targets Identification

The compilation and new interpretive work have resulted in the identification of five (5) new target areas, detailed below, for field exploration investigations with the goal of defining new targets for drilling. These zones are denoted and prioritized as follows:

Ankerite/Gold Pond Area along the Twin Lakes Shear Zone ("TLSZ"); AZ Zone (Easterly and Westerly strike extensions); Newly discovered Central Zone; Monument Bay Deposit West Extension, also located along the TLSZ immediately west of the MB Deposit; and, Gold Ridge along the Stull-Wunnummin Fault/Deformation Zone.

The company is focused on exploring target areas that have the best opportunity to provide gold resource expansion opportunities. ONGold currently believes that the (1) Ankerite/Gold Pond area, (2) the AZ Zone/Central Zone area, and (3) Monument Bay Deposit West Extension are the "highest priority" areas having the highest potential to discover new gold resources.

Eighteen (18) conductive, potential sulphidic zone, targets for gold mineralization have also been identified from airborne magnetic survey data where interpreted north-northwest trending faults intersect easternly trending iron formations (Musselwhite analog).

Two (2) standalone high conductance zones, possible base metal targets have been identified with what appears to be iron formation units identified from historical airborne magnetic survey data.

A detailed analysis of the 2015 VTEM airborne survey was completed resulting in the identification and prioritization of eight (8) strong conductor targets warranting field investigation this summer. The best gold exploration targets will then be considered for a follow-up ground-based Fixed-Loop Electromagnetic ("EM") and Magnetic surveying if required.





Figure 1: Monument Bay Location Map

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10770/243083_d0a250f3e431e8b9_001full.jpg

Advanced Stage Exploration Targets

Based on the Historical Report, Monument Bay is an advanced stage gold exploration asset with more than 800 (+232,000 m) diamond and RC drill holes, numerous historical ground and airborne geophysical surveys, expansive geochemical surveys (soil, humus, rock, biogeochemistry, till), geological mapping and prospecting and some isolated trenches/channel sampling programs. The recently completed comprehensive geological compilation has identified a range of new, highly prospective exploration targets as well as opportunities for resource expansion (Figure 2).





Figure 2

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10770/243083_d0a250f3e431e8b9_002full.jpg

The Ankerite/Gold Pond Area has limited historical field work and has never been drill-tested over the 5.0 km strike length of the TLSZ to the Ontario provincial boundary. It lies along the easterly strike extension of the TLSZ which hosts the MB Deposit and Mid-East Au-W deposit located approximately 7 km and 4.5 km to the West, respectively. This area is underlain by the same metasedimentary and intermediate to mafic volcanic rock package lying just to the south of the same iron formation unit as the MB Deposit in a geological setting analogous to the MB Au-W deposit. A 1991 Noranda Exploration ground IP survey identified multiple (6 plus) anomalies coinciding with the TLSZ and soil B-Horizon soils have returned assays up to 883 ppb gold at one location along the structure in association with a strong resistivity IP anomaly. Gold mineralization at the MB Deposit occurs in association with IP Resistivity and sporadic chargeability anomalies, proving IP is a useful tool to further explore the TLSZ and other target areas across the property. This structure has strong potential to locate another significant gold deposit along its strike length. An updated IP survey, a field mapping/prospecting and sampling program and follow-up trenching and channel sampling program is planned to further unlock the potential of this target area and define drill targets this summer.

The AZ Zone, including its eastern and western extensions, is a gold showing located approximately 800 m south of the MB Deposit and is hosted in metasedimentary rocks (including conglomerates) and has previously returned surface rock gold grab assays of 12.97 g/t Au and 10.30 g/t Au. It was previously tested in 2002 (Bema Gold Corp.), 2006 (Rolling Rock Resources) and finally in 2012 (Mega Precious Metals) by nine (9) shallow diamond drill holes but over a strike length of just 180 m. The best assay was 4.78 g/t Au over a core length of 0.8 m intersected by hole TL-02-96. Historical IP interpretations indicate that this gold-bearing structure is continuous for at least another 1,100 km East and remains open to the West for at least another 1,200 m. A large resistivity/chargeability anomaly can be traced east of the fault for a strike length of 1,000 m. This is a high-priority exploration target this year given that the area remains largely unexplored and due to its proximity to ONGold's exploration field camp. A new modern IP survey as well as ground geological mapping and sampling program are planned for this field season, and the historical drill core will also be reviewed.

The Monument Bay Deposit West Extension lies along the TLSZ immediately west of the MB Deposit for a strike length of 2,670 m to the northwest trending regional diabase dyke and remains underexplored by previous operations. The area has been poorly sampled even by soils/humus programs with limited drill testing. Many IP anomalies remain untested along this structure. Field work will be focused on searching for surface signs of mineralization and conducting a new IP survey program this summer.

The Central Zone, a new possible target structure identified by historical IP survey data resides 120 m north of the AZ Zone and can be defined by a strong resistivity high (at least 530 m in length) associated with the same chargeability anomaly as the AZ Zone west of the northeast trending fault zone. This apparent structure has an east-westerly strike length of 1.5 kms and is hosted within the same metasedimentary rock unit as the AZ Zone. No apparent field work has been completed over this structure, it has never been drill tested and is again located in close proximity to the Company's field camp facility. The AZ and Central Zones can be targeted by the same new IP survey this summer with trenching and prospecting also under consideration for this field season.

Mineralization at Gold Ridge is described as multiple quartz-tourmaline veins associated with a rusty sheared contact between metasedimentary and mafic volcanic rocks and outcrops along the southern shore of Monument Bay. The showing is hosted within the Stull-Wunnummin Shear Zone (deformation) zone, which is around 430 m wide and can be trace across to the western property boundary for another 18.4 km. Previous operators have traced mineralization for a strike length of 1.5 km with grab samples assaying up to 6.4 g/t Au and a channel sample returning 1.24 g/t Au over a sample length of 2.03m. The zone was tested by one drill hole in 2005, 2.4 km west of the main showing, which found quartz-scheelite veins with assays up to 0.28 g/t gold over 1.0m. However, the main showing has not been drill tested.

It is possible that North-Northwest trending features identified in the historical aeromagnetic survey data might control the high-grade gold mineralization in the MB Deposit. These features, interpreted to be faults cut across iron formations throughout the property where a decrease in magnetic intensity suggests magnetite-destructive alteration (sulphidization) may be present (18 Targets discussed above). Similar magnetic signatures are characteristic of iron formation hosted gold deposits such as the Musselwhite Mine in Northern Ontario operated by Newmont Corp.. In addition, recently analyzed airborne electromagnetic (EM) surveys found several zones of high conductivity. These represent standalone targets, which may be prospective for critical metals. Again, these targets are untested by drilling. These sets of data are based on this Historical Report.

Technical Information

The scientific and technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Paul Dunbar, P. Geo. for ONGold, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Dunbar is geological consultant to ONGold and is not considered independent.

All technical data contained in this press release related to Monument Bay is considered historical in nature. Please see the disclaimer in the section of this news release titled "Historic Mineral Resource Estimate" for further details.

Historic Mineral Resource Estimate

The historical mineral resource estimate for the MB Deposit is derived from the Historical Report, an unpublished report prepared for Yamana by WSP dated July 2017. The resource estimate was calculated using cut-off grades of 0.3 grams per tonne (g/t) gold for open-pit resources. The 2015 pit shell was used to constrain the resource. The Mid-East and AZ Zones are not included in this estimate. This resource only considers open-pit resources and is pit-constrained. Subsequent resource modelling has indicated there is a high degree of variability in tonnage, metal grades, and contained metal as a result of different estimation methodologies and geological models.

This estimate, prepared prior to the Acquisition, is considered historical in nature. It is no longer current and should not be relied upon. The 2015 pit shell used to constrain the resource is outdated and would need to be updated to reflect current economic conditions and technical parameters. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimates in this news release as current mineral resources or mineral reserves, and ONGold is not treating the historical estimates as current mineral resources or current mineral reserves. ONGold does not have any more recent estimates or data available with respect to these historical estimates and has not conducted sufficient work to establish the relevance and reliability of the historical resource estimates.

To verify and update this historical estimate to current NI 43-101 standards, additional work is required. This includes further drilling, a review of the geological model, and validation of previous findings under the oversight of a qualified person. Until such work is completed, investors are cautioned that the historical estimate does not meet current NI 43-101 standards, and any economic analysis or decisions based on this estimate should be avoided.

RESTRICTED SHARE UNITS GRANT

The Company has issued a total of 65,664 restricted share units ("RSUs") under its omnibus equity incentive plan (the "Plan") . The RSUs will vest over a period of one year from the date they are issued. Upon vesting, each RSU grants the holder the right to receive one common share in the capital of the Company, or at the discretion of the Company's board of directors pursuant to the Plan may be settled in cash.

About ONGold Resources Ltd.

ONGold Resources Ltd. owns significant exploration assets in Northern Ontario, including the district-scale Monument Bay Gold-Tungsten Project, TPK Project, Domain Gold Project and October Gold Project. These projects represent a strategic footprint in one of Canada's most prolific gold-producing regions.

With its extensive technical expertise, strong commitment to social acceptability, mindful Indigenous engagement and partnerships, in addition to a proven track record of responsible exploration, ONGold's team is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of its portfolio of projects.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

All figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

Cautionary Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. The information in this news release about the plans at the Monument Bay project; exploration plans; the Company's potential to expand gold resources at Monument Bay; Ankerite/Gold Pond area, the AZ Zone/Central Zone area, and Monument Bay Deposit West Extension being the Company's the "highest priority" having the highest potential to discover new gold resources; plans to complete an updated IP survey, a field mapping/prospecting and sampling program and follow-up trenching and channel sampling program for the Ankerite/Gold Pond Area; statements about field work on the various properties; the AZ Zone being a high-priority exploration target this year; and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward-looking information". Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, interpretations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "interpreted", "management's view", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information and are intended to identify forward-looking information. This forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company, and at the time it was made, involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the companies to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, risks relating to historic mineral resource estimates and the ability to obtain permits; the ability of the Company to make contingent payments under the Agreements as they come due; and the inability of the Company to further explore and develop the Projects as anticipated. Although the forward-looking information contained in this news release is based upon what management believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders and prospective purchasers of securities that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended, and neither party nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of any such forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake, and assumes no obligation, to update or revise any such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/243083
VANCOUVER, March 3, 2025 - GR Silver Mining Ltd. ("GR Silver Mining" or the "Company") (TSXV: GRSL) (OTCQB: GRSLF) (FRANKFURT: GPE) - The Company is pleased to announce resumption of field exploration and step out drilling targeting potential resource expansion at the San Marcial Area.

Highlights

After detailed geological, geochemical and geophysical data modelling in partnership with leading geological experts, the Company has identified multiple new drill targets in the vicinity of the San Marcial Resource Area.

The Company is commencing a step-out drilling program aiming to expand the San Marcial mineralization footprint by as much as 350 metres northwest from the current NI 43-101 resource area, as well as test potential new parallel zones.

Initial reconnaissance of silver mineralized hydrothermal breccias outcropping in the northwest and southwest areas on the edge of a large chargeability anomaly has encouraged the Company to continue surface exploration.

To date, only 25% of the footprint defined by coincident geophysical and geochemical anomalies and highlighted by the drill hole SMS22-10 intercept that cut 101 m averaging 308 g/t Ag including 0.8 m grading 7,139 g/t Ag at shallow depth, has been tested.

A successful Bulk Sampling Test Mining ("BSTM") program at the historical San Juan Mine has prompted the Company to further evaluate high-grade silver-gold-lead-zinc mineralization. In addition, metallurgical results from the production and delivery of attractive concentrates to an off-taker, are being assessed. This data is assisting the Company in its third-party discussions to facilitate commencement of a BSTM program at the permitted former Plomosas Mine.

Positive corporate improvements during 2024 have positioned GR Silver Mining for a return to exploration in 2025. Our corporate successes included the sale of a non-core asset, elimination of its working capital deficit, compensation from a third party for a historical environmental impasse, a 106% uplift in the Company share price and strengthened leadership through the recruitment of new directors.

GR Silver Mining saw the exercise of 11.9 million warrants prior to their expiry on February 14, yielding proceeds of $1.8 million at an exercise price of $0.15.

A strong round of consolidation in the Mexican mining industry indicates improvement in the attractiveness of Mexico for future project developments and assessments of new business opportunities. GR Silver Mining's management is exploring opportunities to achieve critical mass going forward.

Our Primary Objective for 2025: Expansion of the Mineralization Footprint at San Marcial

Management recognizes that the Company's greatest value driver is exploration of the highly prospective San Marcial system with its silver-dominant, wide and continuous mineralization. GR Silver Mining is conducting detailed data modelling studies in conjunction with CODES, the globally regarded Centre for Ore Deposit and Earth Sciences at the University of Tasmania (link). This partnership with Dr. Paula Montoya unlocks key information to assist the Company to define new mineralized zones potentially comparable with other major silver districts in the Sierra Madre Occidental. Importantly, fine-tuning of the geological model at San Marcial has yielded several high-priority targets for further drilling. Four of these targets (Figure 1) are currently selected for new step-out and exploration drilling.

The Company has continuously increased resources at the San Marcial Area since its acquisition. The Company believes the studies in progress may catalyze the further expansion of the San Marcial resource to the northwest and southeast. Step-out drilling after the 2023 MRE continued to demonstrate wide, silver-dominant mineralization at relatively shallow depths, extending the mineralized footprint as much as 500 m to the southeast. We believe that follow up drilling to depth and to the southeast is highly prospective at San Marcial.

The identification of the controls on mineralization at San Marcial resulted in the recognition of the presence of the wide mineralized SE Discovery zone at a shallow depth but not outcropping. Geological interpretation, lithogeochemical sampling, and geophysical modelling together with the analysis of key structural corridors provides a template for new exploration and drilling, recognizing that mineralization can be blind, i.e., not obvious at surface (Figure 2).

GR Silver Mining has been engaged in securing the necessary permits for expanded drill programs on the San Marcial Area. As we await these additional permits, our geologists have been active in relogging core, analyzing data, and deposit modeling while based in our offices in El Rosario. Drill programs have been designed, and details will be provided as programs are initiated. The first phase of 2025 drilling has commenced with approximately 1,300 metres planned in up to seven shallow holes targeting near surface, high-grade silver mineralization.

Surface exploration efforts continue with the support of data modelling and mineral prospectivity assessment along the major regional structures in the San Marcial Area. Initial reconnaissance of silver mineralized hydrothermal breccias outcropping in the northwest and southwest areas on the edge of a large geophysical anomaly (chargeability) has encouraged the Company to continue surface exploration (see post on LinkedIn). To date, only 25% of the footprint defined by coincident geophysical and geochemical anomalies and highlighted by the drill hole SMS22-10 intercept that cut 101 m averaging 308 g/t Ag including 0.8 m grading 7,139 g/t Ag at shallow depth, has been tested.

The Former Plomosas Mine: An Unrecognized Asset

As previously noted (news release, March 4, 2024), GR Silver engaged private local operators (mining and milling) to conduct a small-scale BSTM program at the historical San Juan mine site, which is located on a parallel structure several kilometres west of the former Plomosas Mine. The program yielded valuable incremental knowledge related to high-grade modeling and targeting, grade reconciliation, and mineral deposit modeling to define new drill targets. From January to September 2024, 20,620 t of material were mined and 20,430 t milled by the private local operators. A total of 420 t (dry) of lead concentrate were sold, averaging 10.43% Pb, 8,357 g/t Ag, and 8.19 g/t Au, with proceeds contributing to Other Income in the Company's financial statements.

Given the success of the San Juan BSTM program, management is exploring similar options for the former Plomosas Mine. The former Plomosas Mine offers,

Broad lead-zinc-silver-gold mineralization over average widths exceeding 20m.

Existing infrastructure including road access, power to site, 7.4km of underground development with excellent ground conditions,

Mining licences and exploration and exploitation agreements with ejidos in place and fully owned land, and

Advanced geological, metallurgical and engineering knowledge from recent studies as well as 15 years of production records by the previous operator (1986 to 2000).

We believe that the market is focused on further exploration results at San Marcial rather than the former Plomosas Mine, despite the latter's positive attributes. To generate shareholder value, management has signed several Non-Disclosure Agreements and participated in due diligence exercises in support of a potential BSTM at the former Plomosas Mine. Although management is encouraged by our ongoing efforts, there are no guarantees that any of these discussions will come to fruition on a forward-looking basis.

Achieved 2024 Objectives Position GR Silver Mining for an Exciting 2025 Outlook

In 2023, GR Silver Mining met its key objective, delivering an updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the Plomosas Project (news release, May 4, 2023). The updated MRE resulted in an increase in Indicated resources to 85 million ounces AgEq (+84% relative to the 2021 NI 43-101 MRE) and an increase in Inferred resources to 49 million ounces AgEq (+49% relative to the 2021 NI 43-101 MRE).

In 2023 and 2024, with changes in the Mexican Mining Legislation, it was necessary for explorers in Mexico to re-evaluate their strategies in the face of investment headwinds. The 2024 year became transformative for GR Silver Mining and the Company has noticed improvements in opportunities to continue advancing the Plomosas Project. We defined several key objectives, and delivered on them, as outlined following:

Conducted a detailed review and modeling of exploration data related to the discoveries in the San Marcial Area. In conjunction with CODES and leading expert in Sierra Madre Occidental geology, Dr. Paula Montoya, informing upcoming drill programs aiming for new discoveries and resource expansion.

Negotiated and closed a Waiver and Release Agreement (news release, April 1, 2024) by which the Company received USD$500,000 cash and 296,710 common shares of Mako Mining Corp. at a deemed price of $2.1007 per share (USD$460,000; CAD$623,300).

In March 2024, the Company engaged private local operators (mining and milling) to conduct a small scale BSTM program at the historical San Juan mine site. For a very low cost, GR Silver Mining gained incremental knowledge related to high-grade modeling and targeting, grade reconciliation, and mineral deposit modeling to define new drill targets.

The Company's working capital deficit, which had reached $27.4 million by the end of June 2024, was driven by major Mexican mining concession arrears, interest, and penalties related to an earlier acquisition. By disposing of its non-core Marlin Gold subsidiary in July 2024 (news release, July 17, 2024), a positive working capital position was achieved at September 30, 2024 without the loss of a single ounce of resource. Expenses before depreciation, concession fees, and exploration expenditures were reduced 33% over the two years to September 30, 2024, including a 55% reduction in salaries and directors' fees. Near the end of 2023 and through 2024, we closed three non-brokered private placements, and we are very grateful for the support of existing and new shareholders, as well as our capital markets partners.

We are extremely grateful to our Management and Board of Directors for defining and successfully delivering on significant corporate objectives, in the face of external challenges. In August 2024 (news release, August 6, 2024) we were pleased to welcome Mr. Brent McFarlane, former Vice President, Operations at SilverCrest Mines. We also welcomed Ms. Jessica Van Den Akker, a Chartered Professional Accountant with over 18 years of experience and progressively increasing management and board responsibility, to our Board. Combined, they strengthen mining engineering, accounting, and capital markets expertise in the Company's Board skills matrix.

As we successfully delivered on our objectives through the year, aided by a strengthening silver price, GR Silver's share price ended the year up 106%. Measured from the nadir of October 2023, the Company's share price gained 371%. Liquidity is attractive with a 30-day Average Trading Volume of over 465,000 shares.

Since the beginning of 2025:

The price of silver increased 14% to a peak of US$33.49/oz.

GR Silver saw the exercise of 11.9 million warrants prior to their expiry on February 14, yielding proceeds of $1.8 million at an exercise price of $0.15. The support of our shareholders is greatly appreciated.

First Majestic Silver Corp. closed (news release, January 16, 2025) the acquisition of Gatos Silver, Inc. and Coeur Mining, Inc. closed (news release, February 14, 2025) the acquisition of SilverCrest Metals Inc., suggesting the potential for an incipient wave of Mexican silver consolidation and an improvement in the attractiveness of mining business opportunities in Mexico.

Upcoming Conferences

GR Silver Mining will be participating in the upcoming conferences:

The Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada's Convention in Toronto, February 28 to March 5, Booth #2133.

The Swiss Institute conference in Zurich, Switzerland, Attending March 18 and 19.

Qualified Person

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Marcio Fonseca, P. Geo., President & COO for GR Silver Mining, who has reviewed and approved its contents.

About GR Silver Mining Ltd.

GR Silver Mining is a Canadian-based, Mexico-focused junior mineral exploration company engaged in cost effective silver-gold resource expansion on its 100%-owned assets, located on the eastern edge of the Rosario Mining District, in the southeast of Sinaloa State, Mexico. GR Silver Mining controls 100% of the Plomosas Project, including the former Plomosas underground mine and wide, high-grade silver mineralized zones at the San Marcial Area. Recent discoveries in the 78 km2 of highly prospective advanced stage exploration concessions, position the Company well in the pursuit for resource expansion at the Plomosas Project.

GR Silver Mining Ltd.

Eric Zaunscherb

Chair & CEO

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

SOURCE GR Silver Mining Ltd.
VANCOUVER, March 3, 2025 - Defense Metals Corp. ("Defense Metals" or the "Company"; (TSXV: DEFN) (OTCQB: DFMTF) (FSE: 35D) is pleased to announce that it has been named as a recipient for funding of up to C$853,825 from Natural Resources Canada's (NRCan) Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) to support the advancement of infrastructure for its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) deposit, located northeast of Prince George, British Columbia.

Highlights:

Conditional funding approval for up to C$853,825 from Natural Resource Canada's Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund.

Funding will support an economic study assessing the construction of a 46km transmission line connecting Wicheeda to the provincial hydroelectric power grid.

The study includes powerline engineering, environmental studies archaeological assessments, and Indigenous engagement.

The McLeod Lake Indian Band (MLIB) is an equity partner in the project and is actively involved in decision-making through a co-design agreement with Defense Metals.

The CMIF funding builds on the recently completed Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS), which confirmed the Wicheeda Project's strong economic viability and potential to become a significant North American supplier of critical rare earth elements.

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Canada, commented: "Developing Canada's abundant critical minerals drives economic opportunity and creates hundreds of high-paying jobs. Programs like this help mines get built faster, and they are a key element in seizing the generational opportunity before us. The funding provided to Defense Metals for its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project, will help advance the development of the necessary infrastructure to expand British Columbia's sustainable critical minerals production. Defense Metals, and many other businesses in British Columbia know that moving forward, economic development and environmental sustainability must go hand in hand."

"We are very grateful for this important endorsement from Natural Resources Canada and its Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund," said Mark Tory, CEO of Defense Metals. "This funding is the first step to advancing crucial infrastructure for the Wicheeda Project, the only rare earth project in Canada with current proven and probable reserves. As North America's most advanced rare earth developer, we are bridging the critical minerals supply gap by positioning Wicheeda as a key future supplier of these essential rare earth materials."

Transmission Line Study Summary

The CMIF funding will enable Defense Metals to undertake studies for a proposed 46km transmission line, which will connect the Wicheeda Project to British Columbia's provincial hydroelectric power grid. This initiative represents a critical step toward ensuring a reliable, sustainable power supply for the project while reducing reliance on alternative energy sources. The scope of work under this funding includes powerline engineering, environmental studies, archaeological assessments, and ongoing Indigenous engagement with MLIB.

As announced on January 17, 2024, Defense Metals and MLIB have an established co-design agreement, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are integrated into the project assessment and development. MLIB's equity partnership in the project further reinforces their involvement in decision-making processes.

The Wicheeda Project is a strategically significant asset for Canada's critical minerals sector, aiming to contribute to the domestic supply of rare earths essential for clean energy, defense, and advanced technology applications.

About the Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF)

The Critical Minerals Infrastructure Fund (CMIF) is a program established by Natural Resources Canada to support infrastructure projects that enhance the development and supply of critical minerals in Canada. The fund aims to improve access to power, transportation, and other key infrastructure to advance the country's position as a global leader in critical minerals production.

About Defense Metals Corp. and its Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project

Defense Metals Corp. is focused on the development of its 100% owned, 11,800-hectare (~29,158-acre) Wicheeda rare earth element ("REE") Project that is located on the traditional territory of the McLeod Lake Indian Band in British Columbia, Canada.

The Wicheeda REE Project, approximately 80 kilometres (~50 miles) northeast of the city of Prince George, is readily accessible by a paved highway and all-weather gravel roads and is close to infrastructure, including hydro power transmission lines and gas pipelines. The nearby Canadian National Railway and major highways allow easy access to the port facilities at Prince Rupert, the closest major North American port to Asia.

For further information, please visit www.defensemetals.com or contact:

Alex Heath

Senior Vice President, Corporate Development & Interim CFO

Tel: +1 604-354-2491

Email: alex@defensemetals.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This news release contains "forwardlooking information or statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, any statements (expressed or implied) relating to: advancing the Wicheeda Project, the process flowsheet and other matters. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "plan," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "outlook," "estimate," "forecast," "project," "continue," "could," "may," "might," "possible," "potential," "predict," "should," "would" and other similar words and expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events, contribution or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of rare earth elements, the anticipated costs and expenditures, the ability to achieve its goals, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms. Such forward-looking information reflects the Company's views with respect to future events and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of exploration and metallurgical results, risks related to the inherent uncertainty of exploration and development and cost estimates, the potential for unexpected costs and expenses and those other risks filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca). While such estimates and assumptions are considered reasonable by the management of the Company, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and regulatory uncertainties and risks. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, adverse weather and climate conditions, failure to maintain or obtain all necessary government permits, approvals and authorizations, failure to maintain or obtain community acceptance (including First Nations), risks relating to unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, unavailability of personnel, materials and equipment, government action or delays in the receipt of government approvals, industrial disturbances or other job action, and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters), risks relating to inaccurate geological, metallurgical, engineering and pricing assumptions, decrease in the price of rare earth elements, the impact of viruses and diseases on the Company's ability to operate, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains, loss of key employees, consultants, officers or directors, increase in costs, delayed results, litigation, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations. The Company does not undertake to update forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, except as required by law.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/defense-metals-secures-funding-from-natural-resource-canadas-critical-minerals-infrastructure-fund-for-its-wicheeda-rare-earth-element-project-302389767.html

SOURCE Defense Metals Corp.
Supporting Newark-based entrepreneurs and those wanting to locate here with technical assistance to grow their businesses and revenue streams, along with the citys tax collection, while creating sustainable jobs for Newarkers through programs such as the inaugural Newark Tech Bootcamp, contractor development institutes, MWBE/DBE certification shut-ins and capital literacy trainings with our lending partners; Establishing parity and shared standards of excellence across all Business Improvement Districts (BID) and Special Improvement Districts (SID) in the city; Converting at least three Newark-based small businesses to an employee-ownership structure, such as a coop or ESOP, by the end of 2020; and Supporting retail start-ups that want to locate in Newark with temporary space and technical assistance to catalyze their growth and eventual expansion into permanent retail space in the city.

Dangerous. Dirty. Crime-ridden. Struggling. Scary. Abandoned.These are all labels that residents of other New Jersey cities and towns use to describe Newark. Since the 1967 rebellion following the police beating of arrested cab driver John Smith, the city has not been able to shake the stigma of burnt-out buildings, empty storefronts, and a pervasive sense of apathy and neglect.But this tough town is turning around. Public and private actors alike are coming together to fill commercial vacancies and drive local business and job growth. Entrepreneurs large and small are gearing up for Newarks comeback, bolstered by the city making Amazons short list of sites for HQ2. And now, on behalf of Mayor Ras Baraka and the City of Newark, the Newark Community Economic Development Corporation (NCEDC), in collaboration with Governing and Living Cities, and supported by Citi Foundation, has engaged in the 12-month City Accelerator to level up economic opportunities for entrepreneurs of color. City Accelerator and other work of NCEDC is a direct outcome of Hire. Buy. Live. Newark, the citys unprecedented cross-sector partnership between the business community, municipal government, higher education and healthcare institutions, clergy, philanthropies and workforce development programs to reduce poverty and unemployment and strengthen the city's economy by the start of 2020.NCEDCs goal is to grow Newarks middle class via neighborhood-based business expansion, blight removal and homeownership opportunities, as well as by fostering the growth of minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBE) and disadvantaged business enterprises (DBE). To that end, we are:Together with our partners in City Hall and at the Newark Alliance, NCEDC is moving the needle -- and the rest of the country is starting to take notice. In 2018, Mayor Baraka received the Small Business Advocate Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors and Partner America. In his acceptance speech, the Mayor noted that the award served as recognition that we are on the right track, that we recognize the central role of small businesses in transforming Newark, and that our creative initiatives will contribute to defining the course of our nation.With that in mind, NCEDC continues to innovate around ways to further our support of local entrepreneurs in line with the Mayors vision for Newarks economic success.Mayor Barakas business development policy centers on comprehensive prosperity and equitable growth. To foster an inclusive economic ecosystem, NCEDC is looking to be more aggressive in supporting entrepreneurs of color without being too prescriptive. First, we are increasing connectivity throughout the city via Newark Fiber with the goal of expanding educational and economic opportunities to bridge the digital divide. Next, we are ensuring that Newarks minority and woman-owned businesses are certified with all applicable government agencies so that they can leverage such status in public procurement processes. As part of the City Accelerator and in partnership with Rutgers University Business School, NCEDC has created the MWBE Certification Shut-In  a quarterly one-day convening that brings together hundreds of small businesses with 15 partners to certify these entities for local, county, state and federal contracts. With more MWBEs and DBEs licensed, certified and bonded, NCEDC is eliminating the traditional excuses of large companies that say there are not enough qualified MWBEs/DBEs to meet and exceed their diversity procurement targets.Along with becoming certified and bonded, MWBEs and DBEs are being brought to the front of conversations on business expansions and the $4 billion real estate development pipeline here in Newark. The businesses must be informed, legitimized and capitalized - plain and simple. As such, NCEDC is leveraging the City Accelerator to revamp its entire website and launch a business portal that will promote MWBEs and DBEs. The portal will also connect these entrepreneurs of color to contracting opportunities, via requests for proposals (RFPs) and other bids and solicitations, with large anchor institutions  both private and government  including Prudential Financial, PSEG and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. NCEDC is also looking to drive more touch points between our MWBE/DBE businesses and major decision-makers via networking events with CEOs and other executives from top Newark-based businesses like Panasonic and Audible.Newark is uniquely positioned to drive forward development and opportunities for businesses of color within its existing real estate portfolio. The passing of a state ordinance in July 2019 paved the way for Newark to become the first city in the State of New Jersey to create a land bank to reduce blight and return more than 2,000 abandoned and vacant properties to productive use and the municipal tax roll.With the support of Interface Studio, a Philadelphia-based planning and urban design practice, NCEDC has identified hundreds of vacant and abandoned lots in both municipal and private ownership. We are currently in the process of instituting a land bank entity to take control of these distressed assets and facilitate faster, purposeful dispositions for a myriad of end uses, including first-time homeownership for native Newarkers and local business development and expansion. There is also a unique opportunity for small, neighborhood-based developers, general contractors and other real estate-oriented companies to partner with larger entities in joint-venture (JV) opportunities to formulate a development track record by revitalizing their own neighborhoods, employing locally and building inter-generational wealth for themselves and their families. In creating this mix of development opportunities in currently blighted areas of the city, NCEDC looks to drastically increase equitable growth among our 300,000 residents.With the passing of the national Opportunity Zone (OZ) legislation, Newark is poised to leverage this new funding vehicle to support a broad array of projects across the city. In particular, NCEDC intends to target this patient capital towards neighborhoods beyond the downtown that historically have not been afforded these types of investments. With 13 Opportunity Zones across Newark, NCEDC will create a fund to blend OZ capital with Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), New Market Tax Credits (NMTC), Historic Tax Credits (HTC) and other financial vehicles to boost investment in the outer wards. Following 50 years of continuous disinvestment, this strategy aims to stimulate economic growth from the outside so that residents and business owners alike can experience Newarks renaissance across all neighborhoods.Considering all of these multifaceted efforts, NCEDC and our partners are working to change Newarks narrative and the labels that the public assigns to our Renaissance City. As we certify and label our small businesses as MWBEs and DBEs, we are keenly focused on making sure that our entrepreneurs of color are informed, legitimized and capitalized so that at the end of the day, their most prominent label is winner.
Next article: 10 things to note from President Mahama's address at the National Economic Dialogue 2025

Ghana faces $9 billion energy sector deficit by 2026  Finance Minister

Mohammed Ali Business News Mar - 03 - 2025 , 12:34

Ghanas energy sector is on the brink of a financial crisis, with cumulative shortfalls projected to exceed $9 billion by 2026 if urgent reforms are not undertaken, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson has cautioned.

Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue (NED) 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre on Monday, March 3, Dr Forson described the power sector as highly inefficient, burdened by rising operational costs and mounting debt.

Fixing the sector requires bold measures, he stated, revealing that the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) collects only 62% of the energy it purchases, yet a large portion of its revenue is spent on non-essential expenditures.

He disclosed that in 2024 alone, the sector recorded a shortfall of $2.2 billion, despite government transfers of $2.1 billion between 2023 and 2024 to stabilise the industry.

Dr. Forson warned that failure to address these inefficiencies would worsen the countrys energy crisis, placing further strain on the economy.

He called for reforms in tariff structures, improved revenue collection, and greater investment in renewable energy to make the sector financially sustainable.
Ghanas cocoa farmers lose $4,000 per ton as Cocobods debt climbs to GH32.5bn - Ato Forson

Mohammed Ali Business News Mar - 03 - 2025 , 12:42

Ghanas cocoa industry is in severe financial distress, with the Ghana Cocoa Board (Cocobod) accumulating GH32.5 billion in debt, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has disclosed.

He warned that this growing financial burden, coupled with major revenue losses, threatens the livelihoods of thousands of cocoa farmers.

Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue (NED) 2025 in Accra on Monday, March 3, Dr Forson revealed that cocoa production has declined by nearly 50% over the past three years, making it difficult for Cocobod to meet its commitments.

In the 2023/2024 crop season, Cocobod failed to supply 330,000 tons of cocoa for its contracted deliveries, resulting in huge financial losses, he said.

He further explained that Ghanaian farmers are losing $4,000 per ton of cocoa sold due to restrictive contract agreements.

Because of the ROVER contracts, we cannot offer farmers competitive prices, which has driven up smuggling to Togo and Cote dIvoire, he added.

Dr Forson also expressed concerns over Cocobods unbudgeted expenditures, describing them as a major risk to public finances.

He revealed that GH9.7 billion of Cocobods debt is due for payment by September 2025, and urged a complete restructuring of the institution to protect farmers and restore financial stability.
Ghanas State-Owned Enterprises in crisis  Finance Minister warns

GraphicOnline Business News Mar - 03 - 2025 , 13:00

The Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has raised concerns over the dire financial and operational challenges confronting Ghanas state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and joint venture companies, warning that urgent reforms are needed to prevent further economic decline.

Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue on Monday, March 3, Dr Forson painted a bleak picture of the state of SOEs, stating that most of them are struggling financially.

SOEs and joint venture companies are showing mounting operational and financial risk. Almost all state-owned enterprises are in the red. From ECG to the ADB, almost all of them are in the red, he revealed.

The Finance Minister also addressed COCOBODs reported profit of GH2.2 billion in 2023, describing it as misleading. He explained that the profit was artificial, as it was primarily the result of a debt suspension that allowed COCOBOD to avoid servicing its financial obligations.

In fact, beginning from the year 2021, 2022, and 2023, you will see that COCOBOD posted some profit of GHS2.2 billion in the year 2023. This is artificial profit.

This profit is because they failed to service their debt because of the debt suspension This debt still exists, and so we will need to take action to restructure most of the SOEs, Dr Forson stated.

The National Economic Dialogue, held at the Accra International Conference Centre, has gathered key stakeholders, including policymakers, economists, business leaders, and civil society organisations, to discuss strategies for revitalising Ghanas economy.

With the government set to incorporate the dialogues recommendations into the upcoming National Budget, expectations are high that decisive measures will be introduced to restructure struggling SOEs and stabilise the countrys economy.
Trump makes English official language of US

bbc.com International News Mar - 02 - 2025 , 19:36 3 minutes read

President Donald Trump has signed an executive order making English the official language of the United States.

It means government agencies and organisations that receive federal funding can choose whether they want to offer documents and services in languages other than English.

It rescinds a policy that required such bodies to provide language assistance to non-English speakers signed by former president Bill Clinton in 2000.

"Establishing English as the official language will not only streamline communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more cohesive and efficient society," the order says.

This marks the first time the US has designated an official language at the federal level since the country was founded almost 250 years ago.

It is noted in the order that agencies do not need to change, remove or stop offering any such assistance they already provide.

"In welcoming new Americans, a policy of encouraging the learning and adoption of our national language will make the United States a shared home and empower new citizens to achieve the American dream," the order reads.

"Speaking English not only opens doors economically, but it helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and give back to our society."

It also says it celebrates the "long tradition of multilingual American citizens who have learned English and passed it to their children for generations to come".

Nearly 68 million of the country's 340 million residents speak a language other than English, according to the US Census Bureau.

This includes more than 160 Native American tongues.

Spanish, various Chinese languages and Arabic are among the languages spoken the most after English, according to the Census Bureau.

Republicans have previously tried to get English designated as the US's official language, with members of the House introducing legislation that failed in 2021.

Those who opposed their efforts said an official language was not necessary given the high numbers of people who speak English without it being designated as such.

They also said establishing one could promote discrimination against non-English speakers.

During his presidential campaign in 2024, Trump referenced non-English languages while calling for stricter immigration policies.

"It's the craziest thing - they have languages that nobody in this country has ever heard of. It's a very horrible thing," he told a crowd of supporters in February 2024.

Approximately 180 countries around the world have official national languages, and most countries recognise multiple official languages.

Several countries do not have an official language, including the United Kingdom.

More than 30 US states have designated English as the official language, while Alaska and Hawaii have also given official status to several native languages.
WAEC releases withheld WASSCE 2024 results after legal battle

GraphicOnline Education Mar - 03 - 2025 , 08:57 2 minutes read

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has officially released all withheld results from the 2024 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), bringing relief to thousands of candidates affected by the delays.

WAEC had initially withheld over 10,000 results due to suspected cases of examination malpractice but had assured the public that these results would be released by February 28.

The decision to finally make them available follows a legal battle and mounting pressure, including threats of nationwide protests from the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS).

In an interview with Citi FM, the Head of Public Affairs at WAEC, John Kapi, confirmed that all pending results had been uploaded as promised.

As we promised, we kept to our promises. So by the close of February 28, we had uploaded all the results of the candidates whose results had been withheld, he stated.

He further explained that the release was in compliance with a court order, which had directed WAEC to make the results available.

The court had ordered that we should release the results of those candidates. And so weve gone ahead with all the results. So we dont have any outstanding results as far as, you know, those exams are concerned.

Although WAEC has fulfilled its promise, Mr Kapi noted that some candidates may take time to access their results and possibly raise concerns.

Well, 28 was a Friday, and so we assume that the people are still waiting till the beginning of the week, you know, to begin to call the office and to register some complaints. But, again, I think that whatever we have put out there is a true reflection of the performance of the candidates in the examination.

The release of the results marks the resolution of a tense period for affected students and their families, who had expressed fears over potential delays in furthering their education. With this latest development, attention now shifts to how the students will progress with their academic and professional aspirations.
All you need to know about the two-day National Economic Dialogue in Ghana

Kweku Zurek Mar - 03 - 2025 , 08:35 2 minutes read

The National Economic Dialogue (NED) 2025 commences today at the Accra International Conference Centre, bringing together some of Ghanas leading economic minds, policymakers, and industry leaders to deliberate on the countrys pressing economic challenges.

Spearheaded by President John Dramani Mahama, the two-day forum is being held under the theme, Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together. The event seeks to address key economic concerns, propose sustainable policy solutions, and chart a path toward long-term economic stability.

Watch the event below;

In his keynote address as Guest Speaker, President Mahama is expected to outline his administrations vision for revitalising Ghanas economy, reinforcing his commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue on economic policies and reforms. The forum aims to ensure that diverse voices from the public and private sectors contribute meaningfully to shaping the countrys financial future.

Focus areas

The dialogue will centre on crucial thematic areas, including:

- Achieving Sustainable Macroeconomic Stability

- Promoting Economic Transformation

- Advancing Infrastructure Development

- Implementing Structural Reforms

- Ensuring Private Sector-Led Growth

- Restoring Good Governance and Combating Corruption

Speakers and Moderators

The forum boasts an esteemed lineup of speakers and panellists, including economic analyst Leslie Dwight Mensah, economist Prof. Ebo Turkson, banking executive Abena Osei-Poku, legal expert David Ofosu-Dorte, energy consultant Dr. Elikplim Kwabla Apetorgbor, and policy analyst Franklin Cudjoe.

Expert moderators will guide the discussions, ensuring productive deliberations and actionable recommendations. These include former Governor of the Bank of Ghana under the Kufour administration, Dr. Paul Acquah, as well as Dr. Edward K. Brown, Mr. Joe Mensah, Mr. Felix Addo, Prof. K. K. Sarpong, and Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey of the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG).

Expected outcomes

With Ghana currently facing economic headwinds, the government is hopeful that this dialogue will yield consensus-driven solutions to boost business confidence, improve infrastructure, and enhance livelihoods. Stakeholders will work towards establishing clear commitments and milestones to reset the economy and drive transformative change.

The dialogues conclusions are expected to serve as a roadmap for policy implementation, guiding economic decisions that promote resilience and sustainable growth. As discussions unfold, Ghanaians anticipate concrete policy recommendations that will shape the countrys economic trajectory for years to come.
Next article: Someone must reset Ghanas destiny, and it must be the president  Dr Yamson

Dr Ishmael Yamson backs President Mahama to lead Ghanas economic reset

GraphicOnline Mar - 03 - 2025 , 11:13 1 minute read

hThe Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue, Dr Ishmael Yamson, has expressed confidence in President John Dramani Mahama as the only leader capable of resetting Ghanas economy and steering it towards sustainable growth.

Speaking at the opening of the National Economic Dialogue on Monday, March 3, 2025, Dr Yamson stressed the urgency of transformative leadership in addressing Ghanas economic challenges.

He identified economic mismanagement and corruption as major obstacles to national progress, highlighting the need for a decisive and visionary leader to drive change.

"Someone must reset Ghana, and it can only be you [John Dramani Mahama]. Everywhere in the world that economic transformation has taken place, only one individual has led the charge, and the Lord has blessed you with the wisdom to take on that task," he stated.

Dr Yamson further emphasised that Ghana must break free from the grip of poor governance and corruption to achieve long-term economic stability.

"It is time to liberate Ghana from economic mismanagement and corruption, to reset Ghana and put it on the path of sustainable and resilient growth," he added.

The National Economic Dialogue, themed "Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together," brings together policymakers, economists, and industry leaders to explore strategies for revitalising the economy.
32 Years on . . .Parliament yet to establish public interest committee

Maclean Kwofi Mar - 03 - 2025 , 12:13 5 minutes read

The immediate past Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament, Dr James Klutse Avedzi, has called on the government to take deliberate steps to strengthen the operations of the Internal Audit Agency (IAA).

Doing so should be part of measures to help curb the recurring financial irregularities, infractions and general indiscipline on the books of public institutions, he explained in an interview with the Daily Graphic.

Dr Avedzi, who chaired the PAC for eight years, also urged Parliament to establish a Public Interest Committee to follow up on recommendations of the Auditor-General and PAC in line with Article 187 (6) of the 1992 Constitution.

Parliament has not been able to establish the committee proposed in the Constitution to follow up in the public interest for the past 32 years into the countrys fourth republican democracy.

Article 187 (5) of the Constitution mandates the Auditor-General to, within six months after the end of the immediate preceding financial year of each public accounts, submit to Parliament a report to draw attention to any irregularities in the accounts audited and to any other matter which in his opinion ought to be brought to the notice of Parliament.

Subsection six says Parliament shall debate the report of the Auditor-General and appoint where necessary, in the public interest, a committee to deal with any matters arising from it.

Dr Avedzi was commenting on a story in the Monday, February 24, 2025 issue of the Daily Graphic which highlighted a decade of irregularities in the accounts of public institutions, amounting to GH99.57 billion loss to the state.

The chartered accountant said some of the irregularities were not just a mere misappropriation, but rather a grand theft attempt, hence the IAA needed to be adequately resourced to build technical capacity and enhance its independence.

When strengthened, public institutions must be mandated to use the services of the internal audit unit in their establishments, Dr Avedzi, who is now the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission, stated.

Prosecute public officials

The former Member of Parliament (MP) for Ketu North Constituency maintained that the government must prevail on the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice to prosecute public officials found culpable of such deliberate infractions.

I will also urge Parliament to implement Article 187(6) of the 1992 Constitution and establish the committee to follow up to ensure that if an officer is supposed to refund money the person does so.

We have not been able to establish that committee meant to follow up in the interest of the public for the past 32 years into our democracy, Dr Avedzi told the Daily Graphic in Accra.

Public Interest Committee

He explained that the Constitution required Parliament to debate the report of the Auditor-General and point out where necessary to the public interest committee, to deal with any matters arising from it.

When I was the chair of PAC, the Majority Leader, then Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, pledged to establish that committee by the time my next report is released, but that committee will not be in place when my next report comes out.

And so anytime we debate that report, then he would pledge again that this time round, the committee would be established and that was never done, he said.

He explained that it was the duty of the government of the day to take the initiative by working through Parliament to establish the Committee on Public Interest to help follow up on the recommendations in the reports.

Audit committee

In the absence of the committee, Dr Avedzi said the provision had been made in the Public Financial Management Act, 2016 (Act 921) to establish audit committees in every public institution.

He said the audit committee was given a different role from the internal audit unit of an institution.

Dr Avedzi said the duty of the audit committee was to ensure that all audit recommendations were implemented by that organisation.

So, lets say SEC here we have an audit committee, if the internal auditor did his internal auditing and raised issues, the audit committee here will have to ensure that the management of this organisation implements the recommendations of the internal auditor.

In the same way, recommendations of the external auditor which is the Audit Service, and then the recommendation of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament must be implemented by the institution in question, he added.

Membership

With that, he said the membership of the audit committee was made up of five professionals; two of the members must come from the institution and three must come from outside the organisation.

He explained that the three people must come from the Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana and the Internal Audit Agency.

So, two people come from the Internal Audit Agency, one person from Institute of Chartered Accountants Ghana make up the three plus two people here make up the five and they form the audit committee, he explained.

And the chairmanship of this committee must come from among the three people who are from outside because they are not part of this organisation.

If the chair is from within, there might be some conflict of interest.

They might want to overlook certain things, but it is chaired by an outside person, so that person ensures that the management of this organisation implements the recommendations of those reports, Dr Avedzi added.

A-Gs interest

The immediate past PAC Chairman stated that for now once the Auditor-Generals report or PAC recommendations cited somebody for prosecution, it was referred to the Office of the Attorney-General for action.

But this is where the challenge is; the Office of the Attorney-General is part of the executive arm of government and the reports are about members of the executive arm of government.

Sometimes the report is even about the Office of the Attorney-General and we are asking that same body to prosecute himself or other colleagues of the executive.

That is what the challenge is and so our report never sees any serious action being taken on them, Dr Avedzi added.
Book on company law best practices launched

Justice Agbenorsi Mar - 03 - 2025 , 09:57 4 minutes read

A book that provides a detailed analysis of the countrys company law in line with best practices has been launched in Accra.

The authoritative book, which was deftly crafted by a nine-member committee of experts, some of whom have more than half a century of experience under their belt in the field of company law and practice, seeks to answer contemporary questions on the subject to its readers.

Loosely referred to as The Blue Book, the 22-chapter book, which contains the first volume is titled Companies, Corporate Insolvency & Restructuring in Ghana.

With surgical precision, the book breaks down complex concepts such as incorporation of companies, organisation of corporate meetings, corporate litigation, appointments and removal of directors and transfer of shares, process of registration of a company, capital maintenance and reduction for its readers to understand.

A retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Professor Justice Samuel Kofi Date-Bah, who is the lead editor of the book, mooted the idea when he was appointed in 2018 as the chairman of the Business Law Reform Committee of Experts whose proposals to the government formed the basis for preparation of a bill for the Companies Act, 2019.

With Ace Anan Ankomah, a legal practitioner who has taught Company Law at the University of Ghana Business School as the co-editor, the project witnessed contributions from other experts.

They are an Emeritus Professor of Public Law, Professor A.K. Fiadjoe; a Professor of Law and founding Dean of the Law Faculty of the University of Cape Coast, Professor P Bondzi-Simpson; one of Ghanas leading experts in company law who was laid to rest earlier this year, Felix Ntrakwah; and an accountant, Felix Addo.

The rest are the Registrar of Companies (ROC), Jemima Mamaa Oware, a Principal State Attorney with the ROC, Domtie Sarpong, and Felix Awuah, a non-practicing solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales.

Transformative tool

The first copy of the book was bought for GHC 100,000 at the launch, which was chaired by the Omanhene of Asante Asokore, Prof. Nana S.K.B. Asante.

In a speech read on her behalf by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, the Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, described the book as a transformative tool for Ghana's legal and corporate landscape.

The book is more than a scholarly text. It is a practitioner's lifeline, the compass, offering clarity in the face of modern commercial teams. My view is that this book is indispensable for every lawyer, judge and business leader in this room, she said.

She explained that corporate insolvency and restructuring were fundamental indicators of economic stability and business sustainability.

She added that for a long time, Ghana's corporate legal regime was stuck within legislation dating back to the 1960s, saying its practical application resembled a puzzle with missing pieces, and that businesses and the courts had to keep assembling the Companys Act which came into being in 2019 by introducing a systemic shift and progressive framework designed to help propel Ghana to a new era of active support for the different directions of commerce.

She said the book sets out to meticulously cover the evolution of company law and public practice from its colonial era roots to the groundbreaking innovations of company law.

It does not merely regurgitate foreign doctrines or contextualises them with our socio economic fabric.

It answers questions that judges, lawyers and entrepreneurs grapple with daily, as their authors rightly wrote, rightly note, a company is not a mere legal abstraction.

It is a living entity shaped by the society itself, she added.

Legacy

The Chairman described the book as a priceless legacy on the legal and corporate landscape in Ghana.

He recommended the book for lawyers, students, aspiring businessmen and investors, ministers of state, shareholders and all public servants.

The President of the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), Efua Ghartey, said the book would extend the frontiers of law, adding, The GBA welcomes wholeheartedly this literature.

She encouraged members of the bar to write such books in their respective niche areas to make the bar more competitive.
SP bemoans lack of support for corruption fight - Calls for reforms

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Mar - 03 - 2025 , 12:20 4 minutes read

The Special Prosecutor (SP), Kissi Agyebeng, has bemoaned the lack of appetite and willingness to support the fight against corruption, despite its negative impact on the socio-economic well-being of the country.

He described the state of the fight against corruption in the country as paradoxical because everyone wants the Special Prosecutor to do his job, yet no one wants the Special Prosecutor to do his job and people say We must fight corruption, but we must not fight corruption.

This has translated into a rather curious cycle  the outburst of an outcry where the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) acts; and an outcry where it is seen as not acting.

It all depends on where we stand in respect of an active investigation.

Our collective behaviour shows that we do not reward integrity, and we do not want to reward integrity, he said.

Reforms

Mr Agyebeng was delivering the 5th Constitutional Day Public Lecture organised by the University of Professional Studies (UPSA) Law School and a civil society organisation, One Ghana Movement, last Friday.

It was on the theme: A Few Good Men: Suppressing and Repressing Corruption and State Capture in Aid of Development.

To enhance the fight against corruption, the SP called for constitutional reforms to ensure that the Office of the Special Prosecutor was made a constitutional body with its independence protected by the Constitution.

Therefore, the quest should be an entrenchment of the fight against corruption in the Constitution, a retrofitting and full equipment and insulation of the foremost anti-corruption law enforcement institution from political marginalisation and reprisals, Mr Agyebeng said.

Again, he called for a comprehensive law on corrupt practices to provide an adequate and effective statutory framework to support the fight against corruption.

The SP stated that the current legal framework on corruption was unclear, unhelpful as it did not clearly explain what exactly corruption and corruption-related offences as stipulated in the Office of the Special Prosecutors (OSP) Act meant.

We are stultifying ourselves with these preventable shortcomings in our formulation of laws and the legal fictions employed to prop up legal principles in a seemingly unsuccessful attempt to give them a semblance of validity. We would do ourselves a world of good if we state out clearly and in simple terms the acts and conduct we are prohibiting, he said.

On this score, we must forcefully address unexplained wealth not only among public officers but also private persons, with biting lifestyle auditing. Then again, we must highlight the vexed question of the opacity of attending political party financing and the monetisation of public elections. This would surely change the narrative, he added.

Mr Agyebeng further called for the establishment of specialised courts, manned by trained judges with a mandate to swiftly deal with corruption cases.

Corruption itself is curtailed through justice. And the absence of justice begets corruption. It is much like light and darkness. The brighter justice shines, the dimmer corruption gets, he added.

Effects of corruption

The Special Prosecutor described corruption as a canker that not only destroyed the future of the country but also robbed people of opportunities, making a few well off to the detriment of the majority of persons.

We hear stories of corruption in almost every interaction with the systems of the State.

We hear talk that, apparently, one needs to pay a bribe to obtain some government jobs, to obtain school postings, to pass exams, to triumph in elections, even to obtain some state identification documents, he said.

The list is endless. In a society governed by pay-to-play rules, the poor and the marginalised lose out completely, Mr Agyebeng added.

Corruption, he said, had also led to state capture, making the country worse off as the resources and decision-making process are controlled by a few.

In effect, the captured economy is nothing more than a reflection of the few captors who steer the nation solely for their private benefit to the woe of the aggregate national interest, the SP said.

The few captors become the State, and the State is reduced to merely a sort of private property. In this scheme of affairs, nothing stands in the way of the few captors, and they engage in corruption to fantastic degrees, he stated.

For his part, the Review Lecturer for the occasion, Prof. H. Kwesi Prempeh, who is the Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, said he was full of hope when the OSP law was enacted, but now he had become a sceptic.

I have become frustrated due to the various ways and means we have devised to make the OSP not work, he said.

Writers email: [email protected]
Next article: All you need to know about the two-day National Economic Dialogue in Ghana

Stop photocopying Ghana Cards of customers - BoG warns banks

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Mar - 03 - 2025 , 09:00 2 minutes read

The Bank of Ghana (BoG) has warned banks to desist from photocopying the National Identification Cards (Ghana Card) of their clients for transactions as such a practice would attract sanctions.

According to the central bank, biometric verification remained the standard process for identity authentication.

The Deputy Head of Financial Integrity of the BoG, Ashitei Trebi-Ollennu, said photocopying of Ghana Cards was susceptible to fraud which could ultimately compromise banking transactions.

We have never said that banks should photocopy Ghana Cards. Photocopying leaves room for fraud and compromises the integrity of transactions, he said.

Instead, banks must authenticate identities directly through the biometric verification system linked to the National Identification database, ensuring a secure and reliable financial ecosystem, he added.

Forum

Mr Trebi-Ollennu reiterated the directive from the BoG at a forum on identity verification in financial transactions.

The event was organised by Identity Management Systems II (IMS II) Ltd in collaboration with the National Identification Authority (NIA) on the theme: Protect Every Transaction with Biometric Verification.

It brought together stakeholders in the banking industry, regulators, the NIA and ICT firms, among others, to discuss the critical role of identity verification in securing financial transactions

The discussions highlighted the importance of biometric verification as the most secure form of authentication.

Fundamental shift

The Executive Director of IMS II Ltd, James Cantamantu-Koomson, highlighted the need for financial institutions and other players to embrace robust identity management to secure transactions and also instil confidence in financial systems.

He said with the advent of sophisticated tools by some miscreants to harm the financial system, industry players must accept the fundamental shift in identity management from the traditional manual processes to a multi-modal biometric verification approach that eliminated security vulnerabilities.

The Head of Legal of the NIA, Theresa Eson-Benjamin, said pursuant to its legal framework, the Ghana Card remained the sole means of identification for banking transactions.
Well make MP more attractive than minister of state - Speaker assures legislators

Alberto Mario Noretti & Nana Konadu Agyeman, HO Mar - 03 - 2025 , 07:57 4 minutes read

The Speaker of Parliament, Alban S.K. Bagbin, has affirmed the commitment of the Parliamentary Service Board to use the next four years to make being a Member of Parliament (MP) more attractive than being a minister of state.

He said Ghanaians had elected legislators, together with the President, and, therefore, looked up to them to make a difference in their lives not ministers of state.

He explained that making the status of an MP more attractive would stop MPs from using Parliament as a stepping stone to become ministers of state, thus weakening the Legislature.

So when you are chosen, it is not only in constitutional reforms but it should also be felt by the members. You choose to be a career MP and not to use Parliament as a stepping stone to be a minister of state, he said.

Addressing a three-day orientation workshop for members of the Ninth Parliament in Ho, Mr Bagbin asked, Why should the appointees rather have more or better facilities than the elected?

We will change that narrative and I count on your leaders to support me in this, he said.

The event brought together several experts and senior legislators with hands-on experience to take legislators and staff of the Parliament Service Board through various topics to build their capacity in parliamentary procedures.

Some of the topics were the rights of the Majority and Minority, conflict management and consensus building, responsibilities of members of Parliament, how to be an effective legislature: mastering the rules of procedure, skills in advocacy, lobbying and negotiation for a legislator, as well as monitoring and evaluation of public services and capital.

Onerous responsibility

The Speaker said worldwide new constitutions now started with the Legislature and not with the usual hierarchy from the Executive, Legislature and the Judiciary.

He said it was because it was the Legislature which was the backbone of democracy, approved policies and passed the laws for the Executive to implement or execute.

And when there are disputes, then the Judiciary comes in to try to settle the disputes and that is what the new constitutions are now starting with, and that is what I will capture, he said.

In the view of the Speaker, election as legislators presented MPs with the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the quality of lives of Ghanaians and the development of Ghana as a country.

That, he said, was an onerous responsibility very difficult to fulfil as it demanded a lot of attention, focus, service and sacrifice.

Sacrifice of oneself and family. But it is also rewarding not necessarily materially, but in reputation, self-actualisation and dignity, he said.

Guide against bad influence

Mr Bagbin urged first-time MPs to read Parliaments Acts, Parliamentary Service Act, both the new and old Standing Orders, instruments passed and the code of conduct for MPs to become conversant with parliamentary procedures.

Doing so, he said, would equip them with the norms, rules, laws, culture and etiquette for engagement.

He further urged them to use the opportunity to break the ice, make new friends and build a parliamentary family with their senior and more experienced career MPs.

Hold Executive accountable

The Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, said it was important for MPs to appreciate that Ghana had become the envy of many African countries and respected in the world largely because of its democracy.

And when we are done with elections, we have developed the capacity to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

We must learn how to hold the Executive accountable and ensure that in our practices as parliamentarians, we represent our constituents and have our country run by various institutions efficiently and effectively and that the democracy we have is delivering social and economic benefits to our people because that is what they expect, he said.

Acquire knowledge

Earlier, the Clerk-to-Parliament, Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, said the critical responsibility of law-making and conflict resolution required great competence in those fields, adding that the training was appropriate in its timing to equip the participants with those skills for their dynamic role as lawmakers.
Previous article: Our politics too polarised for real national development  Dr K.Y. Amoako at National Economic Dialogue

Ghana still in economic servitude after 68 years  Dr Ishmael Yamson

Jemima Okang Addae Mar - 03 - 2025 , 11:40 2 minutes read

The Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue Planning Committee, Dr Ishmael Yamson, has stated that Ghana remains economically dominated and heavily indebted, despite marking its 68th anniversary of political independence.

He noted that the country continues to struggle with widespread unemployment, particularly among the youth, which has become a significant security concern.

Additionally, he said that, Ghana is the most food-import-dependent country in Sub-Saharan Africa, relying heavily on foreign markets to feed its population.

Speaking at the 2025 National Economic Dialogue in Accra today, March 3, Dr Yamson highlighted the collapse of the manufacturing sector and the pervasive economic hardship affecting citizens.

"We know why we are where we are today," he stated, attributing Ghanas economic struggles to systemic failures.

Dr Yamson criticised the countrys political culture, describing it as one motivated by power and self-interest, with politicians looting state resources for personal gain.

He lamented the prevalence of selfishness, arrogance, and impunity among political leaders and public officials.

He further pointed out that Ghanas governance system had been reduced to a "party-capture" model, where opposition parties deliberately obstruct national progress rather than supporting genuine development efforts.

"A party capture political system where the party in the opposition chooses to sit on the fence and does everything even including misleading the people to undermine genuine efforts to develop the country. There is no longer love for country," he remarked.

Dr Yamson listed several structural issues affecting Ghanas economy, including mismanagement, macroeconomic instability, institutionalised corruption, and weak state institutions.

He described the government as "maximum governance with minimum leadership," citing inefficiencies in economic and social infrastructure, failed agricultural policies, and a continued overreliance on imported value-added products rather than developing local industries.

Despite decades of independence, he noted that Ghana remained primarily an exporter of raw commodities while depending on imports for processed goodsan economic structure that has hindered sustainable development.
Previous article: Someone must reset Ghanas destiny, and it must be the president  Dr Yamson

Ghanas youth losing hope due to economic mismanagement and corruption  Dr Yamson

Mohammed Ali Mar - 03 - 2025 , 10:41 2 minutes read

The Chairman of the National Economic Dialogue Planning Committee, Dr Ishmael Yamson, has warned that Ghanas youth are losing confidence in the country due to economic mismanagement and corruption.

He called for urgent action to restore hope and put the nation on a path to economic recovery.

Speaking at the opening of the two-day National Economic Dialogue (NED) 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre today March 3 2025, Mr Yamson expressed concern that many young Ghanaians, whom he described as Generation Hustlers, have lost faith in the countrys leadership and are eager to leave in search of better opportunities abroad.

This is not the Ghana our forefathers fought for. Our young people no longer see a future here, and that is dangerous, he said.

He attributed the situation to years of poor governance, widespread corruption, and economic instability, which have led to rising unemployment, a collapsed manufacturing sector, and growing reliance on imported goods.

Our politics today is driven by power, personal gain, and arrogance. Corruption is pervasive, and state institutions are weak. This has left young people with no choice but to look elsewhere for a future, he stated.

Mr Yamson acknowledged the impact of external shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global supply chain disruptions but stressed that the overwhelming majority of our problems are homegrown and self-inflicted.

We cannot afford to delay the task of resetting Ghana. If we fail to act now, we will pay the price in the future, he cautioned.

The National Economic Dialogue 2025, themed Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together, is part of a 120-day social contract with Ghanaians.

It seeks to address pressing economic challenges, discuss policy trade-offs, and build consensus on necessary reforms to achieve sustainable growth.

Mr Yamson urged that the dialogue be institutionalised to ensure its recommendations translate into tangible action rather than being reduced to yet another talk shop.

He called on political leaders to take responsibility and act decisively, stating that Ghanaians are tired of poverty and hardship.
Mahama to end single-source contracts, tackle wasteful government contracts

Mohammed Ali Mar - 03 - 2025 , 15:15 2 minutes read

President John Dramani Mahama says his administration will put a stop to the misuse of single-source procurement in government contracts, describing it as a major drain on the countrys finances.

Speaking at the National Economic Dialogue (NED) 2025 at the Accra International Conference Centre on Monday, March 3, 2025, where he officially opened the event, Mr Mahama said addressing wasteful spending was crucial to stabilising the economy.

He criticised the excessive use of single-source procurement, arguing that it had led to inflated contracts and allowed companies to make undue profits at the expense of taxpayers.

He cited a recent example where 10,000 units of poultry farming equipment were procured without competitive bidding. According to him, the contractor purchased each unit for GH4,500 but sold them to the government for GH6,600, pocketing an extra GH21 million.

How can you do this? If this was your own company, would you run it this way? he asked. But that is government bleeding. Everybody takes their share. That must stop.

Mr Mahama stated that under his leadership, single-source contracts would only be allowed in genuine emergencies.

He said his administration would introduce value-for-money audits on government projects above a certain threshold to prevent inflated costs and corruption.

He also stressed the need to review Ghanas procurement laws to curb waste and promote financial discipline in public spending.

Every cedi spent must deliver real value to the Ghanaian people, he said.

The National Economic Dialogue 2025, themed Resetting Ghana: Building the Economy We Want Together, has brought together government officials, business leaders, economists, industry experts, and development partners.

Discussions are expected to cover macroeconomic stability, job creation, private sector growth, and economic governance reforms.
Next article: Ghana must take advantage of its natural resource wealth  Ato Forson urges bold action

Mahama: We refuse to surrender to stagnation and decline

Jemima Okang Addae Mar - 03 - 2025 , 13:04 1 minute read

President John Dramani Mahama has stated that Ghana has long been plagued by short-term economic decision-making, prioritising political expediency over long-term stability.

We refuse to accept this as Ghanas reality. We reject the notion that economic hardship must be our norm. We refuse to surrender to the forces of stagnation and decline, he declared.

Speaking at the 2025 National Economic Dialogue in Accra today, March 3, he emphasised that Ghana should be a beacon of progress on the African continentnot only a model of democracy but also a symbol of economic prosperity.

He stressed that the forum must be a turning point where Ghana shifts from diagnosing problems to implementing pragmatic solutions for sustainable growth.

I am committed to ensuring that the lessons learned from this crisis will shape the decisions we make in the years ahead, he added.

The President stressed that past mistakes must not define Ghanas future, vowing to steer the nation towards prosperity.
Ill pay Assembly members allowances - President Mahama affirms

Samuel Duodu Politics Mar - 03 - 2025 , 08:15 2 minutes read

President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to paying modest allowances to Assemblymen and women, a promise he made during his campaign.

I did promise to pay modest allowances to our Assemblymen and women. I am committed to that promise, President Mahama said while delivering his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) to Parliament last Thursday.

President Mahama noted that decentralisation had been at the heart of the countrys governance system, yet key players in the process such as Assemblymen and women often faced neglect and inadequate compensation.

Election of MMDCEs

The President also reaffirmed his commitment to the election of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) on a non-partisan basis.

This move is in line with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) manifesto promise to elect MMDCEs when voted into power.

Recall

President Mahama promised to pay assembly members an allowance when he is elected president in the 2024 elections.

Mr Mahama said that when he addressed the media in Bole in the Savannah Region after he cast his vote in the 2023 district-level election held on December 19, 2023.

During the interaction with the media, he acknowledged the important role that people within the local governance structure played and indicated that they needed financial support to enable them to effectively carry out their duties.

As I have said, assembly members carry great responsibilities, and if I am elected President, we will pay them an allowance so that it helps them carry out the duties they have been elected for, he said.

Mr Mahama added that his government would take decentralisation seriously and ensure that the District Assembly Common Fund disbursement increases from five per cent to seven per cent.

If God smiles on us and we win the 2024 elections, we are going to take decentralisation seriously, the rest of the ministries seriously, and the rest of the MMDAs that are still centralised.

We are going to complete the decentralisation so that we truly hand over power to the people at the local government level. Until we get our decentralisation right, Ghana is not going to go anywhere, so we are going to take it seriously, he said.
Honor Alpha plan will see $10B invested in AI products with smartphones at the front

Honor Alpha Plan was announced today at an event in Barcelona, ahead of the official start of the MWC tomorrow. The company's new corporate strategy will see it develop a larger AI device ecosystem.

Honor has set aside $10 billion, which it will invest over the next five years, as it develops an intelligent phone that will "revolutionize human-to-device interaction" and bridge the AI ecosystem with consumers.

The strategy also sees the release of AI-enhanced PCs, tablets, and wearables. The new Honor CEO, James Li, urged industry partners to expand their AI capabilities and establish a platform for a broader array of AI-enabled devices.
The Office of the Attorney General on Friday responded to the Office of the Governors three Freedom of Information Act requests related to billboards and hirings, while also stating that petty pissing matches help no one.

Adelup sent three separate FOIA requests to the AGs office, seeking information on its employee hirings and the use of government agencies seals on billboards that the AGs office installed.

Those billboards feature actual photos of homelessness around Guam, as well as a proposed tent city on the front lawn of Adelup.

The documents request sought to intimidate this AG, the AGs office said in a release with FOIA documents attached.

The AGs office said investigations and prosecutions shall continue undeterred.

It said the office continues upholding accountability and transparency as allowed and limited by Guams Sunshine Act.

Several employees in different divisions within our office undertook extensive searches for the three sets of requests, the AGs office said.

It said the governor yet again detracts attention from hardships we all face.

The first FOIA, dated Jan. 31, sought all documentation regarding the hiring of the AGs brother and fiancee.

AG Douglas Moylan responded to earlier questions about the hirings, saying that he removed himself from the selection process.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero submitted two more FOIA requests on Feb. 4, this time over the use of government seals on Moylans billboards, and the AGs hiring of his chief deputy attorney generals wife.

The governors office sent a cease-and-desist letter to the AGs office over the use of government of Guam agencies official seals, or emblems, on its billboards showing actual and proposed homeless encampments.

Moylan had his office take down the seals, but made it clear his office didnt violate any law by using them.

Adelup said its seeking transparency and accountability regarding the unauthorized use of government seals, which it said is a crime under Guam law.

The governors office also sought any formal opinions issued by the OAG regarding the application of 1 GCA  414, which governs the lawful use of government seals and the potential criminal penalties for unauthorized use.

Additionally, the request calls for all applications, drawings, and permits submitted by the OAG to the Department of Public Works for the erection of billboards since Jan. 1, 2023, as well as invoices, receipts, and purchase orders related to the procurement and installation of these billboards.

The other FOIA request sought documents related to the OAGs recent hiring of Takako Guthrie, the wife of Chief Deputy Attorney General Joseph Guthrie.

Her hiring is causing controversy because it appears to be another instance of nepotism within the OAG, as Chief Deputy Guthrie was the individual who approved the hiring of AG Moylans brother and fiancee, as well as his fiancees promotion to chief of staff, Adelup said.

But according to the FOIA response sent to Adelup, Takako Guthrie is not an employee so there were no documents to send in response.

The AGs office also wasnt able to provide documents showing it communicated to government agencies for the use of their seals on its billboards.

Adelup spokesperson Krystal Paco-San Agustin said the governors office was still reviewing the submission as of Monday morning.
The Department of Public Health and Social Services is urging the community to take preventive measures against measles following the first reported measles-related death in Texas.

DPHSS said the case highlights the severity of measles and the need for increased vigilance and immunization.

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Symptoms typically appear seven to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a distinctive rash.

Severe complications can occur, especially in young children, immunocompromised individuals, and unvaccinated persons.

The measles, mumps, and rubella, MMR, vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles infection and complications, DPHSS said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention strongly recommends the following vaccination schedule:

Children

All children should receive two doses

First dose given at 12-15 months of age, and

Second dose at 4-6 years of age or at least 28 days after dose

Students at post-high school educational institutions

Students without evidence of measles immunity need two doses, with dose #2 given no earlier than 28 days after the first dose.

Adults

All persons born during or after 1957 should have documentation of at least one dose given on or after the first birthday.

People should be protected before traveling:

For infants 6 to 11 months of age, get an early dose at 6 to 11 months; follow the recommended ACIP schedule and get another dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and a final dose at four to six years.

Children 12 months of age or older: Should have two doses, separated by at least 28 days.

Adults born during or after 1957 without evidence of immunity against measles should have documentation of two doses, with dose #2 given no earlier than 28 days after the first dose.

For travelers

Those traveling to regions (domestic or international) where measles is spreading should be fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine at least two weeks before travel.

Unvaccinated travelers may still benefit from a single dose of MMR vaccine.

DPHSS recommends reviewing vaccination records to confirm they are up to date. To learn more about what vaccines are needed for each country, visit https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list/.

All health care providers are urged to review and update the immunization status of all patients they see.

If vaccination is contraindicated (should not be used) because of illness, a follow-up appointment should be scheduled to update vaccination as soon as the illness is over.

For more information about the outbreak in Texas, visit https://www.dshs.texas.gov/news-alerts/texas-announces-first-death-measles-outbreak.

For more information about MMR vaccination, visit https://www.cdc.gov/measles/vaccines/index.html.

For more information or assistance, contact:

Northern Regional Community Health Center: (671) 635-7400 or 671-635-4410

Southern Regional Community Health Center: (671) 828-7604 or 671-828-7605

Primary health care provider

DPHSS encourages all residents to stay informed, take precautions, and get immunized.
The Guam Police Department's Tumon-Tamuning Precinct phone lines are down and residents are advised to contact other numbers, spokesperson Officer Berlyn Savella said.

The phone lines have been experiencing poor to zero connectivity, she said.

"We have reached out to our service provider and have patiently awaited for their assistance," Savella said.

GPD is uncertain how much longer before lines will go back online, she added.

Residents can contact police dispatch for the Tumon Tamuning areas at 671- 475-8615 thru 671-475-8617.

Residents should call 911 for emergencies.

Other precinct numbers are 671-632-9808 for Dededo Precinct, 671-475-8541 for Central Precinct and 671-472-8915 for Hagat Precinct.
Department of Revenue and Taxation acting Director Marie Lizama is seeking the dismissal of a $1 million lawsuit filed against her and others in her agency by a Dededo shooting range.

Interface Inc., doing business as Sportsland, filed a complaint and demand for a jury trial on Jan. 17 in the District Court of Guam.

The company is seeking $1 million as part of the suit.

It filed the complaint against Lizama in her official capacity as director of Rev and Tax and other unnamed defendants.

Sportsland operated a shooting range in Dededo until they were unable to renew their license to operate in 2023.

An opinion from the Office of the Attorney General stated that government agencies denial of a Dededo outdoor firing ranges business license over public safety and zoning concerns was proper. The AGs office said a binding agreement could be worked out for the business to continue to operate at a safer location.

The company, in their complaint, alleged their rights were violated.

Interface seeks a judgement awarding damages and compensatory damages for taking of Interfaces property without just compensation in deprivation of due process rights, in violation of equal protections, and in violation of Guam Business License laws, the complaint states.

Lizama, through attorney Sandra Miller, filed a response to the suit on Feb. 26, asking the federal court to dismiss the lawsuit with prejudice and be awarded its costs and expenses, including attorneys fees.

A scheduling conference is set for 9:30 a.m. on April 29 before Magistrate Judge Michael Bordallo.

According to the complaint, Sportsland was licensed to operate on Guam from 2018 through July 31, 2023, and was a family-owned firing and shooting range.

The company had an annual $300,000 in revenues and about 2,720 monthly customers, including law enforcement officers, military personnel, government officials, and citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights in a safe and controlled shooting range facility, which was Guams only private shooting range at the time of licensing, the complaint states.

The company said it acquired the long-term lease to the Dededo property and did due diligence to ensure the business was lawful and licensable. It made an initial investment exceeding $1 million, documents state.

Lizama failed and or refused to renew their business license after having issued licenses to Interface for over five years, the complaint states.

The company said defendants did not follow Guam business license laws. Interface also alleged defendants did not follow the Guam Administrative Adjudication Act rules and regulations applicable to denying applicants business licenses.

Interface said it has suffered damages and losses, including but not limited to the complete economic loss of its property interests, lost revenues, lost projected revenues, the total loss of and closure of its business, foreclosure on the property by its lender, and deprivation of its property without compensation.

The company is seeking an order from the federal court that the defendants have violated its rights and enter an order for damages and or compensation for the value of and or losses to the property.

Business license

The original business license was granted in the early 80s, and the shooting range received conditional approval to be constructed.

The range changed owners to John and Taylor Sablan and in 2018, the Sablans received their first business license as the range owners.

When the range got its renewal for 2022, a note accompanied it saying that it needed an inspection.

In 2023, they were going through the inspection process to fulfill the new requirement in order to get its renewal when the business received a notice of violation and an order to cease and desist business activities from the Department of Revenue and Taxation.
Coca-Cola was 5 cents the same time when a large group of dedicated educators rallied to support students preparation for the world of work.

In 1926, the Association for Career and Technical Education emerged as the leader and champion for workforce education and development.

Almost 100 years later, Guam ACTE celebrates their 10th year anniversary, serving the educators of Guam and island nations of the western Pacific.

As the founding president of GuACTE, Ive been asked to retell my tale of how this all came about. It all began about 50 years ago for me.

I was 9 years old, with glasses, hair in long braids and embarrassing buck teeth. It was 1975. I didnt understand much about the Vietnam War, but I did notice new classmates who spoke no English. My Tamuning Elementary School teachers recruited me and other students to volunteer for an after-school program. With supportive parents, I began peer-tutoring my new classmates.

Eleven years later, at the University of San Francisco, Hien, a.k.a. John, introduced me to his friends as the one who taught him English. His memory surprised me, sharing:

I could not enunciate S or Sh sounds, until you told me to say, the sunshine on Asan seashore. I stayed at the Asan refugee camp months earlier. So, it clicked right away!

Today, John is a doctor and a deputy mayor in California. Two siblings are also in the field of medical science. They are a product of Operation New Life.

Around 2005, I defended a bill at the Guam Legislature that would fund vocational education counselors. The senators eventually funded four new high school career counselors. In 2008, I received my Ph.D. in Work and Human Resource Education from the University of Minnesota.

In 2010, I decided to run for senator to write legislation for the integration of academic and CTE in public schools. I joined the 31st Guam Legislature and had unanimous support for the College and Career Readiness Act, which Gov. Eddie Calvo signed into law on Jan. 4, 2012.

In 2015, with the help of other passionate CTE educators, we started the Guam Association for Career and Technical Education. It is the western-Pacific chapter of the national ACTE, with the mission to provide educational leadership in developing a competitive workforce.

Its now 2025, and at the recent annual CTE Summit hosted by GuACTE, there were over 140 teachers and business leaders. We had the first ever Mixer social held at the CarsPlus showroom on Thursday, followed by a dynamic panel discussion at the University of Guam on Friday, and a morning packed with workshop sessions at JFK High School.

The journey continues to build the necessary network and practical partnerships to move CTE forward in the 21st Century  one that works for Guam and the region. I witness the passion, enthusiasm and commitment from many teachers, and it brings me much hope.

The CTE torch continues to shine brightly in Guam and the Pacific, especially with the business stakeholders providing the fuel of critical insights and foresight.

The work of CTE champions continues, and I give a toast to them...with my can of Coke Zero.
This reflects the complexities of workforce challenges on Guam, particularly as they relate to the military buildup and local economic impacts. This is one perspective among many, and readers are encouraged to explore additional viewpoints to form their own conclusions.

The 2025 Career and Technical Education Summit at the University of Guam brought together educators, economists, industry leaders, and federal representatives to discuss pressing issues surrounding Guams workforce and economy. Discussions ranged from workforce shortages to soft skills training, pay inequities, and the cost of living.

A central focus was Guams unique challenges: the military buildup, the federal governments involvement, and how these factors impact the islands economy. Despite the creation of thousands of federal jobs and infrastructure projects, Guam continues to face economic strain, particularly in workforce shortages. Whats being done to address these challenges?

Military buildups impact on Guam economy

With the military buildup generating federal jobs and new infrastructure projects, Guam still faces significant workforce shortages.

While these projects have brought investment, many positions require specialized skills or security clearances that local workers may not possess.

Additionally, the influx of off-island workers has driven up housing costs and strained local resources.

Solutions include training workers in soft skills like communication, teamwork, and reliability, as these are crucial for filling many of the new positions. Creating clearer pathways for local workers to fill these roles, along with job fairs and training programs, can connect the community with opportunities tied to the military buildup.

Why is Guam losing its workforce?

Despite many job openings, a significant portion of the islands workforce isnt actively seeking employment. The high cost of living, lack of competitive benefits, and limited career pathways have led many young people to leave Guam for better opportunities abroad.

To combat this, employers on Guam need to offer better compensation packages, including health benefits, housing allowances, and career development opportunities.

There is also potential for mentorship programs to provide young workers with the skills and connections necessary to remain on the island.

What role does the federal government play?

Despite the federal involvement in Guams military buildup, some argue that local leaders have not adequately negotiated for sufficient support. Guams territory status leaves it often overlooked in comparison to U.S. states, despite the islands service and loyalty.

Veterans can use their experience and connections to advocate for more federal assistance, pushing for sustainable long-term solutions like infrastructure development, education funding, and expanded veteran services. Ensuring that the federal government fulfills its promises of support is key to addressing Guams challenges.

Can the summits ideas create lasting change?

The summit highlighted the need for actionable plans and follow-through to ensure that the ideas discussed  like soft skills training, technical education, and federal support  result in tangible benefits for Guams workforce.

Collaboration between local leaders, educators, and industry representatives is necessary to implement these solutions. Regular progress updates and active community involvement will help keep these efforts on track and ensure that change is not only promised but achieved.

Final thoughts: A call to action

The summit concluded with a focus on bridging the gap between education and industry. Guams challenges are complex, but its people have the passion and drive to overcome them.

The military buildup and federal involvement have brought both opportunities and challenges to Guam. By fostering collaboration between local and federal entities and leveraging the strengths of its community, Guam can build a workforce that is not only skilled but also deeply connected to the islands future.

The question remains. Will these efforts lead to lasting change, or will they become just another headline? The answer lies in the collective will of Guams people and their ability to turn discussions into action.
The governors recent trip to Washington, D.C. is perplexing to again ask for $400 million for a new hospital as the Trump administration is in the midst of massive cutting of federal expenditures.

If Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero could not get the funds from former liberal Democratic President Biden, why does she think that right wing Republican Trump will provide $400 million to Guam?

We should be concerned that Elon Musk will discover the unused American Rescue Plan funds of approximately $400 million that Guam still has unspent, which would be a prime candidate to return, especially from a territory that has little if any clout in Washington.

Even more worrisome is that someday there will be an audit of the ARP funds and Guam will have to return millions of unaccountable and illegal expenditures. Just witness the recent audit of the Guam Department of Homeland Insecurity.

Already the governors medical complex in Mangilao is unattainable in the required timeframe before the end of next year, 2026 (now less than two years away) as previously provided:

Complete land acquisition, six months

Complete federally required environmental compliance, one year

Design, fund, and construct utilities, two years

Design new hospital, one year

Contract for the hospital construction, six months

Construct the new hospital, two years

Total of at least seven years, and this is optimistic considering the history of a new Simon Sanchez High School.

As a reminder, there has been virtually no environmental compliance required by the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and the Endangered Species Act performed for the project area in Mangilao.

This has been verified by a Freedom of Information Act response that I received from the Department of Housing and Urban Development dated Jan. 31, 2025.

In essence, there has been no thoughtful comprehensive planning for a new hospital, which should have started with involving the community along with information on what the medical needs of the island are. A hospital is only a structure to provide these medical services. So what are the medical services needed for the people of Guam? Have our medical needs even been compiled, analyzed, and provided to the people?

In the process, the governor has alienated a large segment of the medical community which we cannot have due to the realistic fragile resources for medical services on our island.

Without broad community support (except politicians dependent on the current governor), no real plan, questionably funding, and not even the land acquired, there will be no medical campus in Mangilao.

Prior concerns have been brought up by the community regarding sinkholes and an adjacent missile launching site, which indicates there was no real planning. These issues and others should have been realized in an open planning process. Instead, we had overly dramatic press announcements by the governor that apparently, we all were supposed to be mesmerized with, but were not.

However, with the Guam Power Authority planning a power line to the proposed medical campus in Mangilao, the beneficiary will be the adjacent site for a unit of the missile defense system. Certainly, the Missile Defense Agency will express their gratitude to GPA for providing the required power at no expense to MDA.




Haiti - Politic : Leslie Voltaire presents his successor to the Multinational Mission





Sunday, March 1st, 2025, Leslie Voltaire, the pro tempore President of the Transitional Council whose term ends on March 7, 2025, accompanied by Normil Rameau, Commander of the Haitian National Police (PNH), went to LSA 2 to introduce Presidential Advisor Fritz Alphonse Jean to the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS), who will succeed him as President for the next 6 months. He took the opportunity to salute the dedication of the Mission's contingents who collaborate with the PNH to combat gang violence. He also expressed his condolences to the members of the Mission following the death of Kenyan officer Samuel Kaetuai https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-44351-haiti-news-zapping.html .



President Voltaire acknowledged the significant achievements made through the efforts of the Missions contingents from Kenya, Jamaica, Guatemala, El Salvador, the Bahamas and Belize.



Welcoming the Haitian delegation were Colonel Chevron Henry, Deputy Mission Commander, as well as Operations Commander Stephen Chebet and other senior Mission officials.



Colonel Chevron Henry expressed his gratitude for the continued support of the Haitian authorities, the PNH, the Haitian people, local and international partners and all stakeholders engaged in the mission. Furthermore, he highlighted that the collaboration between the MSS and the PNH has led to significant successes, particularly in the Artibonite and Kenscoff regions, among others.



A particularly notable moment was the Missions renewed commitment to continue decisive operations, with officers remaining more motivated than ever to fight gangs, despite the loss of one of their own.



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Former President Aristide criticizes the State's promises

On Sunday, March 2nd, 2025, former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, during the 7th graduation ceremony at his Foundation's university, firmly urged state officials to move from words to actions: "What we need is not promises of security. No. It is security." Let's recall that the Presidency of the Transitional Council, whose term ends on March 7, was led for 6 months by Leslie Voltaire (and his promises), representative of "Fanmi Lavalas"...



Pope Francis' Health Bulletin

"The clinical conditions of the Holy Father remained stable today, Sunday, March 2nd, 2025," reports the Holy See. Pope Francis "did not need non-invasive mechanical ventilation, but only high-flow oxygen therapy, he has no fever." The isolated attack of bronchospasm on February 28 had no direct consequences https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-44381-icihaiti-flash-the-pope-is-recovering-after-an-isolated-attack-of-bronchospasm.html . However, given the complexity of the clinical picture, the prognosis remains reserved. Sunday morning, after a peaceful night and breakfast, Francis spent time reading the newspapers. He also received a visit from Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, as well as Msgr. Edgar Pena Parra, substitute for General Affairs.Other links on the health of the Pope https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-44388-icihaiti-religion-the-pope-is-alert-and-his-health-is-stable.html



The Dominican army prepared for all eventualities

The Minister of Defense of the Dominican Republic, Lieutenant General Carlos Antonio Fernandez Onofre, assured that the border with Haiti is under high surveillance at each strategic point and that the army is prepared to face all eventualities.



KRIFA : Large distribution of health kits

Kri Fanm Ayiti (KRIFA) carried out last weekend a large distribution of health kits to pregnant and breastfeeding women in 2 displaced persons sites at Colleges Antilles and ONA. The beneficiaries all received a kit consisting of: toothbrushes, soap, anti-virus and anti-bacterial gel, towel, sanitary napkin, baby wipes, etc... This distribution is part of the implementation of the prevention and psychosocial care project for children in displaced persons sites in Port-au-Prince.



Mayor Chevry gives blood

On Sunday, March 2nd, 2025, Ralph Youri Chevry, the Mayor of Port-au-Prince, and his Deputy Guerslyn Charles made a gesture of solidarity by donating blood during the City Hall's blood drive day at the Marriott Hotel.



French Embassy : Consular services closed

Due to public holidays (Carnival), the consular services of the French Embassy are closed to the public on March 3rd, 4th and 5, 2025.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















The Eagle S, flagged in the Cook Islands, is believed to be part of Russias "shadow fleet" of tankers operating outside Western sanctions.

The Eagle S oil tanker, suspected of deliberately damaging undersea cables in the Gulf of Finland , has been released from custody as Finnish authorities continue their investigation. The vessel, which had been held since December, departed Finnish waters under the supervision of the Finnish Border Guard.

Finnish police suspect the tanker of dragging its anchor across the Baltic seabed on 25 December, damaging an electricity cable and four telecommunications cables. The damage left a 100-kilometre-long trench on the seabed.

The Finnish National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said on Sunday that the case had reached a stage where there was no longer legal justification to continue detaining the vessel.

"As far as the criminal investigation is concerned, the tanker is not prevented from continuing its passage to leave Finland's territorial waters," the police said.

The investigation has identified eight suspects among the crew. Three remain subject to travel bans, while restrictions on five others were lifted earlier this week. Police are continuing their work, including further interviews and forensic analysis of collected evidence. The case involves charges of aggravated criminal mischief and aggravated interference with communications.

Authorities expect to conclude the investigation by the end of April.

The Eagle S had been detained while Finlands energy company Fingrid and Estonias Elering assessed the possibility of seizing the vessel to cover damages. However, both companies decided against it, citing the high financial risks of maintaining the tanker. They plan to pursue legal action for compensation.

The suspected sabotage adds to growing concerns over hybrid threats in the Baltic Sea. Several undersea cables were damaged in the region last year, with experts warning of possible Russian involvement.

Finland and Sweden, both NATO members since 2023, have increased their security efforts in response. NATO has also stepped up surveillance in the Baltic Sea.

The Eagle S was escorted out of Finnish territorial waters by the Finnish Border Guard and the Gulf of Finland Coast Guard patrol ship Turva.

HT
The strike will impact major retailers, including Ikea, Gigantti, Suomalainen Kirjakauppa, Clas Ohlson, and Musti ja Mirri. It will cover all operations, including stores, logistics, and offices.

The Service Union United (PAM) has announced a new strike across Finlands retail sector, targeting 41 companies and affecting around 20,000 workers. The two-day strike is set to begin on 20 March at 5:00 am and end on 21 March at 11:59 pm.

PAM halted negotiations with the Finnish Commerce Federation last week, citing a lack of progress on key demands, particularly job security protections. The union is pushing for stronger safeguards against dismissals, arguing that upcoming legislative changes will weaken employee rights.

The Finnish government is moving to amend labour laws, making it easier for employers to terminate workers by reducing the legal requirement to a general "justifiable reason." Currently, employers must demonstrate a "justifiable and weighty reason" to dismiss an employee.

PAM conducted a snap survey among its members, with 85% of retail sector respondents saying that maintaining job security in collective agreements was "extremely important."

Negotiations remain stalled, but Finlands National Conciliator has met with both sides and is set to continue talks. If no agreement is reached, the strike will proceed as planned.

HT
Helsinki has issued guidance for its schools on handling fasting during school hours.

Schools in Finland are adopting different approaches to Ramadan fasting as the number of Muslim pupils grows. Some schools provide guidelines, while others refrain from taking a stance on the matter.

Some schools have advised parents of younger pupils to limit fasting to weekends or afternoons when there is no schoolwork.

Ville Raatikainen, head of Basic Education in Helsinki, confirmed the citys position, while Paivi Lyhykainen from the teacher trade union OAJ supported the approach. She noted that some schools have used morning assemblies to explain Ramadan to all students as part of cultural education.

In Tampere, some schools take a more neutral position. Marika Korpinurmi, principal of Ahvenisjarvi School, stated that the school does not interfere in pupils participation in Ramadan.

"It doesnt cause or require any special arrangements. We have not issued any guidance to guardians, nor have we observed any situation where Muslim pupils monitor each others fasting," Korpinurmi said.

She added that younger children at her school do not typically fast, but teachers would contact parents if fasting affected a child's well-being.

Ramadan fasting requires abstaining from food and drink during daylight hours. In Finland, where summer daylight lasts for nearly 24 hours, many Muslims follow the fasting schedule of Mecca.

HT
The event, organised by Rastor Institute, brought together policymakers, business leaders and migrants to discuss the challenges of integrating foreign professionals into the workforce.

Finland needs skilled foreign workers to sustain its economy, but outdated attitudes and rigid language requirements are still major obstacles to employment, experts warned at a seminar on Tuesday.

Many highly educated migrants struggle to find jobs that match their skills, despite years of effort and fluency in Finnish.

Omolara Odediran, a Nigerian-trained teacher with additional degrees from European universities, has faced constant rejection. The answer was always no, she said.

Raja Rymbai, a former journalist with experience in international organisations, has spent years looking for work in Finland. I hope that one day the right person at the right company will notice my CV, he said.

Sosionomi and philosophy graduate Cucu Wesseh, who has worked short-term jobs in Finland for two decades, dreams of a leadership role in healthcare. Employers should see people as individuals. Diversity is a strength, he said.

The seminar highlighted that Finland is failing to utilise the skills of educated migrants, even those with strong language skills and years of work experience.

Labour Minister Arto Satonen stressed that Finland's demographic trends make immigration essential. Every year, 10,000 more people retire than enter the workforce. Finland cannot cope without skilled labour, he said.

Experts identified key challenges: employer attitudes, strict language requirements and lack of professional networks. Toni Berkowits, CEO of Rastor Institute, pointed out that foreign job seekers need to apply five times more often than native Finns to get an interview.

Proposed solutions included mentorship programmes, better access to internships and a cultural shift towards inclusivity. Satonen suggested expanding workplace learning initiatives. A master-apprentice model could help companies integrate more migrants, he said.

Mikael Pentikainen, CEO of the Federation of Finnish Enterprises, acknowledged the deep-rooted problem of discrimination. Racism is embedded in our society, and we must eliminate it. This is not just the responsibility of employers but of all workers, he said.

He also called for less regulation around language requirements. Employers should be trusted to decide what language skills a job requires.

Maria Lofgren, President of Akava, the confederation of professional unions, praised Finlands anti-discrimination laws but noted that many workers hesitate to report bias. We need to make it easier for people to challenge discrimination without feeling isolated, she said.

Lofgren also stressed the importance of supporting language learning in daily life. We assume Finnish is impossibly difficult. In casual conversations, we switch to English too quickly. We should encourage learning instead of defaulting to English, she said.

The seminar concluded that meaningful change starts with small actionsoffering one interview, one mentorship or one internship could make a crucial difference for a skilled migrant and benefit businesses in the process.

Rastor Institute is supporting migrant employment by providing free diversity training for companies through its Tyoelamateko programme. Our goal is that everyone who moves to Finland can work in a job that matches their skills and education, said Anssi Kujala, Chair of Rastor Institute.

HT
NIPT is performed using a blood sample from the mother and does not involve any procedures on the fetus.

Helsinki will offer non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for pregnant women at city maternity clinics starting 3 March 2025. The test detects common chromosomal abnormalities with greater accuracy than traditional combined screening. Participation is voluntary and free of charge.

The test identifies the risk of the most common chromosomal abnormalities, offering a more reliable screening method than the standard combined test. Those for whom NIPT is not suitable will still have access to the traditional screening.

Previously, expecting mothers in Helsinki could undergo NIPT at their own expense in addition to the standard combined screening. It is great that we can now provide this test through our maternity clinics, said Monica Lindberg, head of maternity and child health services in Helsinki.

Pregnant women visiting Helsinki maternity clinics will receive information about NIPT screening during their first appointment. Those whose first visit occurs before 3 March 2025 will be offered the standard combined screening.

The city has agreed to continue providing NIPT screening throughout 2025, with an assessment of the programme set for the end of the year. The screenings will be carried out by HUS, the Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa.

HT
At the peak of remote work in 2021, over 40 million people teleworked across the EU, twice as many as in 2019.

The number of workers returning to the office is gradually increasing across Europe, according to new data from Eurofound. The latest Living and working in the EU e-survey shows that the share of employees working entirely from the workplace rose from 36% in 2023 to 41% in 2024, marking a shift away from the widespread teleworking trend triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the shift to remote work initially happened overnight, the return to the office has been more gradual. Large companies are now pushing for a full-scale return, often against employees preferences. Employers argue that in-person work fosters collaboration, productivity, and innovation, whereas workers cite greater autonomy and improved work-life balance as key benefits of remote work.

The data also reveal a shift in gender patterns. For the first time, more women than men now work entirely from the office, while men have slightly greater access to remote work options.

Teleworking rates vary widely across Europe. Remote work is least common in Cyprus and Greece, while the Netherlands and Ireland have the highest rates. Despite Irelands strong telework culture, an estimated 350,000 jobs that could be done remotely are still being carried out in the workplace.

While the transition back to office work is not universal, the trend suggests that Europe's teleworking experiment may be entering a new phase.

HT
Here is a selection of what the international press has published about Finland in the last week:

The article explores how some Finnish saunas have taken this tradition to new heights by offering creative, and adventurous experiences.

Finland has over three million saunas spread across homes, offices, and even unexpected locations like gas stations. One of the most innovative concepts is the mobile sauna, which allows people to enjoy a steaming session anywhere they please. These wood-fired saunas are mounted on trailers and can be transported to festivals, private gatherings, or even remote locations like frozen lakes or deep forests.

For those fascinated by history, the Viking Sauna at Urpola Manor in Hame offers an immersive experience inspired by Norse traditions. Designed with rugged wooden interiors and roaring fires, this sauna recreates the ambiance of an ancient Viking settlement, making visitors feel as though they have traveled back in time, equipped with modern comforts. At Koskenkorvan Trahteeri, a massive 10,000-liter whiskey barrel has been transformed into a cozy sauna, blending distillery heritage with Finnish tradition.

For aviation lovers, the Ilmatar Airplane Lodge features a sauna inside a retired Finnish Air Force DC-3, offering a mix of history and relaxation. Thrill-seekers can head to Vuokatti Skate & Sauna, where a floating halfpipe meets Finnish wellness, or take to the slopes at Yllas Ski Resorts Sauna Gondola, the worlds first ski lift sauna, combining breathtaking views with traditional heat.

Original story was published by FTN News on 28.02.2025 and can be found here.

This medieval fortress floats on a Finnish lake (home to the worlds most unusual opera venue)

This article about Olavinlinna Castle, a medieval fortress in Savonlinna, Finland, was published in Journee Mondiale on February 28. The article explores the hidden gem of Nordic history and culture, known for its dramatic location on a rocky islet in Lake Saimaa.

Built in 1475, it is the northernmost medieval stone castle still standing and has witnessed centuries of Swedish-Russian conflicts. Today, it serves as an iconic cultural venue, hosting the annual Savonlinna Opera Festival, where world-class performances take place against the backdrop of the midnight sun.

Beyond the castle, the article highlights the surrounding Lake Saimaa region, a vast labyrinth of islands and home to the rare Saimaa ringed seal. It also covers natural wonders like Punkaharju Ridge, a glacially formed land bridge, and architectural marvels such as Kerimaki Church, the worlds largest wooden church. Finnish traditions, including floating saunas on the lake and Karelian cuisine, further enrich the experience.

The regions culinary offerings are deeply influenced by Karelia, featuring specialties like kalakukko, a fish-filled rye bread loaf, and Karelian pastries, delicate rye crescents filled with rice and topped with egg butter that have sustained generations of forest workers and fishermen.

Original story was published by Journee Mondiale on 28.02.2025 and can be found here.

Teenage physics students in Finland give positive feedback for AI teaching agent

The pilot project in Finland where an AI teaching agent called MAI was introduced to help teenage students learn physics was covered in an article by Phys.org on February 27. The article highlights Finlands continued innovation in education, and the potential of AI to enhance learning without replacing human teachers.

Developed by the University of Oulus Hybrid Intelligence research program, MAI represents a new approach to AI in education. Finland, known for its world-class education system, is now integrating AI into classrooms while ensuring that human intelligence remains central.

The AI agent was tested for a month at Ritaharju Upper Secondary School, where students aged 12 and 13 worked with MAI in small groups alongside their teacher. The initiative received positive feedback, with students appreciating how MAI encouraged them to think more deeply and remember concepts better. They noted that it improved group dynamics by identifying when someone was struggling, leading to more discussions and collaboration. Teachers also found MAI helpful, as it guided students even when they were unavailable to assist directly.

The idea is that AI helps students recognize the challenges in their current work. This helps students figure out how to proceed, Joni Lamsa, a researcher at the University of Oulu said.

Original story was published by Phys.org on 27.02.2025 and can be found here.

Mysterious organic compounds discovered over 7,500 feet underground in Finland

The discovery of naturally occurring volatile organic compounds (VOCs) deep within the Outokumpu borehole in Finland, extending over two kilometers underground, was covered in an article by SciTechDaily on February 26. The article provides valuable insights into the deep Earths understanding, the global carbon cycle as well as on the air quality of underground facilities, such as mines.

While VOCs are often associated with human activities, they also form naturally in environments like wetlands, hydrothermal vents, and forests. The study by the University of Helsinki and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK), revealed a wide range of VOCs in groundwater at depths between 500 and 2,300 meters, an area where little was previously known about their presence.

Microbial communities, including bacteria and fungi, were found to play a key role in producing and breaking down VOCs, while the composition of these compounds was influenced by the characteristics of the surrounding bedrock, such as its carbon and sulfur content. The researchers first noticed the VOCs due to distinct odors from the borehole water, which were described as resembling the ocean, sewer, or even slightly sweet. Advanced chemical analysis confirmed the presence of over 40 VOCs, including butane, benzene, dimethyl sulfide, hydrocarbons, alcohols, ketones, and aldehydes.

We studied the possible role of microbes in the formation or degradation of these VOCs by analyzing genomic data on the microbial community, Senior Scientist Mari Nyyssonen of VTT said.

In the deep bedrock, microbes have few different sources of nutrients and carbon, and the results of the study show that these VOCs bring new kinds of opportunities to the microbial dinner table, Nyyssonen added.

Original story was published by SciTechDaily on 26.02.2025 and can be found here.

HT
Asheville man sentenced to prison for home burglary

Kevin Engene Mapp Jr.

A 40-year-old Asheville man was sentenced to nine years in prison on Friday after pleading guilty to charges of first-degree burglary, larceny after breaking and entering, and to two counts of financial card theft, District Attorney R. Andrew Murray announced.

Related Stories

According to the investigation and evidence presented at trial, Kevin Engene Mapp Jr. was involved in a traffic accident in Buncombe County last Nov. 24 where he exchanged personal information with the victim. Having this personal information, Mapp on Dec. 14 broke into the victims home in Henderson County while the home was occupied and during nighttime hours. Physical evidence such as cell phone data, a video recording and a pawn ticket led law enforcement to Mapp. Superior Court Judge Peter Knight sentenced Mapp, who is also a registered sex offender, to a maximum term of up to nine years, three months in the state prison.

Assistant District Attorney Michael Van Buren handled the prosecution and sentencing of. Murray thanked the Henderson County Sheriffs Office and lead Detective Scott Aly for the professional and thorough investigation of this case.

When someone violates trust and the sanctity of a persons home, they will be prosecuted accordingly, Murray said.
New forces in Chinese car production rush to release new products, with innovation in focus

Global Times) 10:43, March 03, 2025

A number of new forces in Chinese car production, especially makers of electric vehicles (EVs), are flexing their muscles to release new products to grab more market share, with innovation featuring smart driving and artificial intelligence (AI).

The latest example is Xiaomi, which on Sunday delivered its first SU7 Ultra, a pure EV, with better-than-expected orders since its debut. Lei Jun, founder of Xiaomi, said on Sina Weibo that orders have far exceeded expectations.

The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra was released on Thursday, and within 10 minutes, orders with deposits and very high intentions to buy had exceeded 6,900 units. Within two hours, that number had surpassed 10,000 units, Xiaomi Auto said on its account on Sina Weibo.

The new model, priced at 529,900 yuan ($72,750), is equipped with a full-scene smart driving function, with computing power totaling 11.45 EFLOPS (a measure of supercomputing performance, representing 1 quintillion floating-point calculations performed every second). More functions, including a roaming parking search and parking assist for ultra-narrow spaces, are expected to be available this month, according to Xiaomi Auto.

Huawei announced on Sina Weibo on Saturday that the newly released Huawei AITO M5 Ultra had commenced pre-orders with a starting pre-sale price of 238,000 yuan. The vehicle is equipped with Huawei's advanced driving system, featuring upgraded 192-line LiDAR and 4D millimeter-wave radar, significantly enhancing its intelligent driving and safety capabilities.

On February 21, Leapmotor T03 was officially unveiled, launching two models priced at 59,900 yuan and 69,900 yuan. Zhu Jiangming, chairman of Leapmotor, said that the company will introduce three B-series models in 2025, with the high-end configurations of these models expected to feature lidar and high-performance AI computing chips for autonomous driving.

"Innovation has become the hallmark of Chinese emerging automakers this year, featuring smart driving empowered by AI. It is also a key reason why their vehicles have gained popularity among consumers," Zhang Xiang, director of the Digital Automotive International Cooperation Research Center of the World Digital Economy Forum, told the Global Times on Sunday.

In February, more than 10 auto manufacturers including Geely, Dongfeng, and Leapmotor announced deep integration with AI company DeepSeek's large language model, empowering intelligent cockpits, smart driving, and other functions.

On Saturday, a number of new forces in Chinese car production announced delivery figures for February. XPeng Motors delivered 30,500 vehicles, representing a year-on-year increase of 570 percent, marking the fourth consecutive month with deliveries exceeding 30,000 units.

Li Auto delivered 26,300 vehicles in February, a 29.7 percent year-on-year increase; Leapmotor delivered 25,300 vehicles, achieving a 285 percent year-on-year rise, and Zeekr delivered 14,000 vehicles, up 86.9 percent.

Zhang noted that with the continued post-holiday releases of consumer demand, support from consumption-boosting policies as well as the continuous improvement in smart driving technology and charging/battery-swap infrastructure, the new-energy vehicle (NEV) market will maintain strong growth momentum in the coming months.

"Chinese automakers have established the largest NEV industrial chain globally. Now empowered by advanced technology, China-made NEVs have advantages of cost-effectiveness, which enables them to explore more of the global market," Zhang noted.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Chinese tech companies flock to MWC

10:48, March 03, 2025 By Yin Yeping ( Global Times

A number of Chinese tech companies, including Huawei and ZTE, have confirmed that they will attend the upcoming Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2025, where they will showcase their cutting-edge innovations ranging from artificial intelligence (AI) to 5G and the Internet of Things.

The active participation of Chinese companies in the annual event, set to take place in Barcelona, Spain, from March 3 to 6, once again underscores their openness to global collaboration and commitment to sharing development opportunities with global players in the rapidly evolving technology sector, a Chinese industry veteran said on Sunday.

MWC Barcelona 2025 is set to break records, with organizers anticipating more than 101,000 visitors and more than 2,700 exhibitors from around the globe, according to catalonia.com, the official website of Catalonia Trade & Investment, a government agency of Catalonia, Spain.

Many leading Chinese technology companies will be present, including Huawei Technologies, Xiaomi, Alibaba Cloud, China Unicom, China Mobile, and ZTE, among others, according to the official website of MWC.

Huawei recently confirmed its participation in the MWC Barcelona 2025, with the company's rotating chairwoman Meng Wanzhou, extending an invitation letter in February. The company said in the letter that attendees will be able to get a first-hand look at its applications that combine the strengths of 5.5G and AI, among many other experiences.

"At MWC, Huawei will join stakeholders across all different sectors to explore how we can unlock new growth opportunities, create new business value and drive shared success in the age of All Intelligence," read the letter.

China Telecom released a preview report on Sunday regarding its participation in this year's MWC. The company stated that at this year's event, it will set up five major exhibition areas covering cutting-edge fields such as AI, foundational large models and the low-altitude economy.

Over 20 new technologies, products and achievements will be showcased, as China Telecom collaborates with global partners to build a new AI ecosystem, China Telecom said, adding that the company's exhibition area will feature not only a variety of drones but also sleek manned flying vehicles available for test rides and photo opportunities.

Chinese telecoms firm ZTE said on its official website on Sunday that the company will present its latest solutions at MWC Barcelona 2025, covering six key themes - ultra-efficient mobile networks, all-optical world, AI-inspired value, engines of intelligence, infinite future and smart life.

In partnership with industry partners, ZTE will promote the deep integration of AI and connectivity, accelerating intelligent innovation and jointly shaping a future that is highly efficient, intelligent and green, the company said.

In addition to industry giants, some small and medium-sized businesses from China are also expected to attend the event with eye-catching innovations.

Chinese technology company Lierda, based in Hangzhou, a leading hub for technological innovation in East China's Zhejiang Province, told the Global Times on Sunday that it will showcase a range of cutting-edge products, including its self-developed 5G RedCap modules, at MWC Barcelona 2025.

Over the past decade, 5G has redefined mobile networks with ultra-high speeds and massive bandwidth; however, challenges such as high deployment costs and limited industry adaptability remain, the company said, highlighting RedCap, also known as "Lite 5G," as a promising solution that streamlines unnecessary features and optimizes power consumption.

"We're excited to showcase our wireless tech at the exhibition and help businesses grow internationally with cutting-edge solutions from China," the company said.

In 2024, more than 300 Chinese companies attended the event, doubling the number in 2023, and it has been described by some foreign media outlets as a place where "Chinese tech titans take center stage."

While there was no official confirmation of the number of Chinese companies attending this year's event as of Sunday, Ma Jihua, a veteran telecom industry observer, told the Global Times that there is an expectation that Chinese companies would continue to make up a significant proportion of the participants.

For many years, Chinese companies have been the major participants in the event, showcasing China's strength in the information and communications sector, while the event provided a vital platform for Chinese companies to engage with the world, Ma said, adding that despite various restrictions imposed by the US, Chinese companies have always remained committed to global cooperation by participating in events like the MWC.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
The suspense surrounding one of the most unpredictable Oscar seasons in recent memory is about to come to an end. On Sunday, Hollywood's brightest stars will gather at the Dolby Theatre for the 97th annual Academy Awards, where several first-time winners are expected to take home the coveted golden statuette.

This marks the second consecutive year that the Oscars have been scheduled earlier in the evening, aiming to reveal the Best Picture winner before audiences start heading to bed. The race for the top prize has been particularly intense, with "Anora" and "Conclave" emerging as frontrunners after securing major wins at other industry awards.

Meanwhile, "Emilia Perez," the film with the most nominations this year, has seen its Oscar prospects clouded by controversy following the resurfacing of racist tweets from star Karla Sofia Gascon. As a result, the fate of Netflix's divisive narco-musical remains uncertain as the envelopes are opened on Sunday night.

How to Watch the Oscars

Start Time: The ceremony kicks off at 7 p.m. Eastern (4 p.m. Pacific) and will be broadcast live on ABC. The network is available through traditional cable and satellite providers, as well as over-the-air with an antenna.

Streaming Options: Viewers can also watch the Oscars via streaming services that provide live access to ABC, including Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV. Additionally, the awards show will be livestreamed on Hulu.

International Broadcasts: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has compiled a guide to help international audiences find local broadcasters airing the event.

Red Carpet Coverage

The Oscars red carpet is always a highlight, showcasing the most dazzling fashion moments as nominees and celebrities arrive for the ceremony. ABC's official red carpet pre-show begins at 6:30 p.m. Eastern, both on-air and on Hulu. E! will also host its signature coverage, "Live From E!: The Oscars," starting at 4 p.m. Eastern. Meanwhile, The Associated Press will provide a livestream of arrivals on APNews.com and YouTube.

Predictions and Where to Watch the Nominated Films

Film critics and industry insiders have weighed in on this year's likely winners, with AP Film Writers Jake Coyle and Lindsey Bahr offering their expert predictions. For the first time, fans can also participate by making their own Oscar picks on APNews.

For those looking to catch up on the nominees, many of this year's contending films are readily available on streaming platforms.
Raging wildfires across the Carolinas have prompted South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency Sunday as firefighters raced with time to quench fires that have burned thousands of acres.

Several communities have been forced to flee their homes amid continuing fires across the states, fanned by dry and windy conditions.

I have declared a State of Emergency to further support wildfire response efforts across the state and ensure our first responders continue to have the resources they need. A statewide outdoor burning ban remains in effectviolators will be prosecuted. Please stay informed.  Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) March 2, 2025

Myrtle Beach Fire Update

The Myrtle Beach Fire in Covington Drive, one of the largest wildfires, has so far burned 1,600 acres and has only been 30% contained, as per the latest update from the South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC).

UPDATE ON COVINGTON DRIVE WILDFIRE IN MYRTLE BEACH - 17:30:00 Sunday, March 2, 2025



1600 acres; 30% containment %; 40 SCFC resources on scene in concert with Horry County Fire Rescue, other local FDs; evacuations still in place in for Indigo Bay, Farm, Summerlyn, Spring Lake,  South Carolina Forestry Commission (@ForestryCommish) March 2, 2025

Evacuations are still in place for the following areas in Horry County:

Indigo Bay

Farm

Summerlyn

Spring Lakes

Covington Lakes

Waterford

Walkers Woods

Avalon neighborhoods

The South Carolina National Guard said Sunday that helicopters have been mobilized to help contain the Myrtle Beach fire. Two choppers had buckets that carried some 600 gallons of water.

U.S. Army Soldiers with Company A, 1-111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina National Guard mobilized three UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopters in support of the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural pic.twitter.com/ELbtOxktNi  SC National Guard (@SCNationalGuard) March 3, 2025

The Myrtle Beach fire remains active as of early Monday.

Update on Other Fires Across South Carolina

A map provided by the SCFC showed that at least two new fires have been reported overnight, and most other fires have been contained, while several were already controlled.

In wildfire terminology, a containment means responders and firefighters have constructed a line and mop-up is underway. Basically, the spread of a certain wildfire has been stopped, at least for now.

There were an estimated 175 fires that occurred Saturday.

New North Carolina Fires Spark amid Active Wildfires

Over in North Carolina, there are at least nine active wildfires, even as dozens of other new fires were reported overnight, according to data from the North Carolina Forestry Service.

The Polk County fire near the North Pacolet River has burned 400 acres and is 0% contained, as per the latest data.

All the other active fires are smaller in size but could still be dangerous due to the windy weather conditions.

The Forest Service has warned people against flying drones over wildfires after a drone was spotted within the airspace of two wildfires in eastern North Carolina on Saturday. "If a drone is there, firefighting aircraft can't be. Period," the agency said.

'Extremely Critical Fire-Weather' Warnings

Meanwhile, it appears it's not just the Carolinas in trouble with fire conditions. The NWS Storm Prediction Center warned Sunday that "extremely critical fire-weather conditions" are possible Monday, specifically across Texas and New Mexico.

Key messages Update for Mon 3/3 and Tues 3/4



Extremely Critical Fire-weather conditions possible Monday 3/3. Rapid spread of wildfires may occur TX/NM.



Damaging winds, hail and a few tornadoes (some strong) are possible over the Southeast Tues.

see https://t.co/QMmU4tCxt1 pic.twitter.com/unTdybZj38  NWS Storm Prediction Center (@NWSSPC) March 2, 2025

The center expects such conditions to ensue from Monday morning through evening, with strong winds greater than 40 mph (miles per hour) possibly fueling the rapid spread of wildfire and extreme fire behavior.

Originally published on IBTimes
Kroger Chairman and CEO Rodney McMullen has resigned following an internal investigation into his personal conduct, the company announced Monday. The nation's largest grocery chain stated that while the investigation was unrelated to business matters, McMullen's actions were found to be inconsistent with the company's ethics policy.

Ronald Sargent, a longtime Kroger board member, has been appointed as chairman and interim CEO, effective immediately. Sargent, who has served on the company's board since 2006 and as lead director since 2017, brings extensive experience in retail leadership. He previously served as chairman and CEO of Staples and has held multiple roles within Kroger, spanning stores, sales, marketing, manufacturing, and strategy.

McMullen, 64, has had a long tenure at Kroger, beginning his career in 1978 as a part-time stock clerk and bagger at a Lexington, Kentucky store. He climbed the ranks, becoming chief financial officer in 1995, chief operating officer in 2009, and CEO in 2014. He assumed the role of chairman the following year.

Kroger's board was alerted to the situation on February 21 and promptly engaged an independent counsel to conduct an investigation, overseen by a special board committee. The company emphasized that McMullen's conduct did not affect Kroger's financial performance, operations, or reporting and did not involve any other company employees.

As Kroger initiates a search for a permanent CEO, Sargent will remain in the interim role until a successor is named.

The announcement had an immediate impact on the market, with Kroger shares falling more than 3.5% ahead of Monday's opening bell.

McMullen's departure comes at a challenging time for Kroger as it continues to navigate the fallout from its failed merger attempt with Albertsons. The proposed $24.6 billion deal, which would have been the largest supermarket merger in U.S. history, was blocked in December by two judges who cited concerns about reduced competition and potential price increases. In the aftermath, Albertsons sued Kroger, alleging that the company did not make sufficient efforts to secure regulatory approval for the merger.

Kroger now faces the dual task of finding new leadership while repositioning itself in the competitive grocery market following the collapsed merger deal.
A Utah woman accused of killing her husband was denied bond after prosecutors say she confessed eerie details of the crime to an informant in a phone call.

Jennifer Gledhill, 42, is accused of shooting her husband Matthew Johnson, 51, while he was lying in their bed in September 2024. Prosecutors during the detention hearing that Gledhill had shown the informant a gun days before the shooting and had arranged for the couple's three children to be at her parent's home the night of the killing.

"On September 22, the defendant confessed to the informant that she shot Matthew in the master bedroom with a gun as he slept," Prosecutor Emily Paulos said at the detention hearing. "She also confessed that she loaded Matthew's body into a rooftop storage container, slid him down the stairs and loaded him into her minivan. She buried him in a shallow grave and cleaned everything up."

Later Paulos said that Gledhill made other incriminating statements to the informant in a recorded phone call. Paulos said the Gledhill asked the informant to not think of her as a monster.

When the informant said that if the situation was reversed, wouldn't Gledhill be afraid, Gledhill said, "Not if I deserved it. I always preached that I was like the Queen of Hearts in my past lives because I'm like off with their heads. I'm like, if we could just round up the scum of this earth and put them on an island or just kill them all, I could ship-shape this country back to a good place."

According to Paulos, Gledhill continued that she couldn't hurt a fly and that her husband "wasn't a person anymore, he wasn't Matt." The conversation took place before Johnson was reported missing, Paulos said.

Among other evidence Paulos referenced in the hearing, was the fact that when police searched the home their was a new mattress on the bed, the house smelled of bleach, and blood was found on the carpet under the bed. Paulos said police had cut a slat from the rug where they found a blood stain under the area of the bed where Johnson had slept.

Gledhill has pleaded not guilty to murder charges. Johnson's body has not been found.

Originally published on Latin Times
The man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens more during a 2022 Independence Day parade in Highland Park pleaded guilty Monday to murder and attempted murder, just before opening arguments were set to begin in his trial.

Robert E. Crimo III, 23, withdrew his previous not-guilty plea in a Lake County courtroom. The trial had commenced on Feb. 24 with jury selection. Crimo had initially faced 21 counts of first-degree murderthree for each victimas well as 48 counts of attempted murder. Prosecutors dropped the 48 aggravated battery charges before jury selection began last week.

Judge Victoria Rossetti read the charges aloud in court Monday, confirming that Crimo understood them before accepting his plea. Dressed in a dark suit, he sat beside his attorneys but did not address the court or ask any questions before departing.

Crimo is scheduled to be sentenced on April 23, though he is expected to receive a life sentence without the possibility of parole, as each first-degree murder charge carries a natural life sentence under Illinois law.

The trial was originally anticipated to last about a month, with testimony from survivors and law enforcement officials. Prosecutors had prepared thousands of pages of evidence, including hours of videotaped police interrogations in which they say Crimo confessed to the shooting.

The attack left dozens wounded in the suburban community about 30 miles north of Chicago. Victims ranged in age from their 80s to an 8-year-old boy who was left partially paralyzed. Witnesses recounted the chaos as gunfire erupted, sending families fleeing the parade route and abandoning chairs and strollers in their rush to seek shelter in nearby businesses and homes.

Crimo's criminal case saw multiple delays, partly due to his unpredictable courtroom behavior. In June 2024, he had been expected to accept a plea deal, allowing victims and their families to address him. However, he arrived in court in a wheelchair and rejected the deal, surprising even his legal team. He then fired his public defenders and announced he would represent himself, only to later reverse that decision.

The trial unfolded nearly two years after legal proceedings against Crimo's father, Robert Crimo Jr., who faced charges over his son's ability to obtain a firearm license. In 2019, at age 19, Crimo III required parental sponsorship to apply for a gun license. Despite a relative previously reporting that Crimo had threatened to "kill everyone" and possessed a collection of knives, his father sponsored the application. Robert Crimo Jr. later pleaded guilty in 2023 to seven misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct.

In the wake of the tragedy, Highland Park officials canceled the annual Fourth of July parade in 2023 but reinstated it in 2024, incorporating a remembrance ceremony for the victims.

Those killed in the shooting were Katherine Goldstein, 64; Jacquelyn Sundheim, 63; Stephen Straus, 88; Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, 78; Eduardo Uvaldo, 69; and married couple Kevin McCarthy, 37, and Irina McCarthy, 35.
IHG's midscale conversion brand, Garner hotels, has rapidly expanded since launching in 2023 with more than 117 hotels now open or in the pipeline.

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG), global leader in hospitality, introduces its midscale conversion brand, Garner hotels, to the UK. Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury marks another great milestone for IHG's new midscale conversion brand, which has seen rapid growth since its global launch in 2023.

The hotel, operated by KRO Hospitality and located in Northern England, joins a growing portfolio of Garner hotels in Europe. It also follows IHG and NOVUM Hospitality's long-term agreement, to bring more than 50 Garner hotels to Germany.

Each Garner hotel is purposefully different, and designed to deliver a relaxed and comfortable experience for guests who value genuine human connection over luxury. With convenient locations, comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, bean-to-cup coffee, and snacks available at the Garner Shop - the brand is focused on delivering the all-important basics guests want from a stay.

Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury brings to life the brand's design hallmark "Made with Character" and is a contemporary hotel with 80 stylish guestrooms spread across three floors. At reception, a signature Garner feature wall showcases Sketches of Humanity, a distinctive welcome moment that reflects how Garner hotels brings people together while celebrating the diversity of the brand's guests and properties.

Joanna Kurowska, VP and Managing Director, UK & Ireland at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: "I'm thrilled to welcome Garner hotels to the UK and Ireland, IHG's largest market in Europe. Its arrival sees us strengthen our midscale portfolio further by bringing a new brand to the market to join our growing Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands."

We proudly partner with owners who share our commitment to investing in exceptional hotels that foster long-term support for the local community. That is why we are delighted to open our first Garner hotels alongside KRO Hospitality."

"We are proud to open the doors of the first Garner hotels property in the UK," said Neelesh Chaturvedi, General Manager of Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury. "Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury is the perfect location for guests seeking quality stays at an affordable price point -whether they are exploring Preston and or in need of a quick overnight rest. I'm confident our unique blend of style, service, and value under the brand's ethos of 'easy going stays that get you on your way' will be welcomed by guests."

Dining options include the Village Brasserie, offering locally sourced British cuisine, while the Lounge Bar providing a relaxed atmosphere for socialising or unwinding. For business travellers, the hotel features several versatile conference and events spaces ideal for meetings, seminars, and gatherings. A well-equipped Fitness Suite is also available for guests seeking to maintain their wellness routines during their stay.

Conveniently located close to the M6's junction 31, Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury offers easy access to Preston, Manchester, Liverpool, the Lake District, and the popular seaside resort of Blackpool. The hotel benefits from proximity to key business hubs such as Samlesbury Aerodrome, home to BAE Systems, and is also within reach of major employers like Lancashire County Council and the University of Central Lancashire, making it the ideal stay for business travellers and group bookings.

The hotel joins IHG's global portfolio of more than 117 open or pipeline Garner hotels since the launch of the brand in 2023. In Europe, alongside 56 Garner hotels set to open in Northern Europe, IHG has announced the first signings in Turkiye and Italy.

As part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, guests of Garner hotels can enjoy the perks of the industry-leading IHG One Rewards loyalty programme, including the ability to earn and use points toward Rewards Nights and Milestone Rewards such as late check out and food and drink.

For more information about Garner hotels, or to book a stay, visit www.garnerhotels.com or use the IHG One Rewards mobile app.

*Numbers as of 31 December 2024

Hotel website
Set High Above the Vibrant Cityscape, the Hotel Brings Celebrated Rituals and Exquisite Experiences to the City's Growing Commercial District.

St. Regis Hotels & Resorts announced the highly anticipated debut of The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an in one of China's most dynamic cities. Soaring 51 stories above the city with panoramic views of Qianhai Bay, the hotel sets to exemplify the brand's timeless legacy through bespoke experiences, sophisticated design, and unparalleled service.

Set on the western side of Shenzhen, Bao'an District is a dynamic and rapidly developing area known for its strategic location and excellent connectivity. The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an enjoys a prime location just 15 kilometers from Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport, offering effortless access for international and domestic travelers. The hotel is also conveniently close to key landmarks such as the Bao'an Government Building, the Public Cultural and Art Center, OH Bay, and the Bao'an Library, making it an ideal choice for business and leisure guests alike. With seamless connections to major transportation hubs and cultural attractions, guests can easily explore the city while enjoying the hotel's sophisticated luxury and unparalleled convenience.

Designed by internationally acclaimed interior architect Andre Fu, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an draws inspiration from the unique synergy between New York, the birthplace of the first St. Regis, and Shenzhen, a global hub for innovation. This concept, "A Tale of Two Cities", harmonizes New York's timeless glamour with Shenzhen's dynamic energy. Fu's signature relaxed luxury ethos reflects the brand's 120-year history of timeless elegance and thoughtful design, creating a space that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in its locale.

Each of the 289 guest rooms and suites showcases a refined urban mansion aesthetic. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of the city or Qianhai Bay, while Oriental-inspired timber screens, alabaster lighting, and marquetry headboards elevate the interiors with artistic precision. A palette of dark oak parquet, Carrara marble, and muted tones of sage green and deep terra cotta creates a warm yet sophisticated ambiance, offering a sanctuary of modern elegance. Guests will also enjoy the St. Regis Butler Service, a personalized signature offering of the brand that ensures personalized and anticipatory service at every turn.

The hotel's four distinctive dining venues harmoniously blend St. Regis sophistication with Shenzhen's globalized culinary scene. Helmed by the acclaimed Chinese Executive Chef and culinary talent Watson Chen, Yan Ting serves classic Cantonese dishes that are reimagined with modern artistry, celebrating the finest local ingredients. The St. Regis Bar invites guests to indulge in an inspired list of cocktails, including the Bay Mary - a distinctive blend of lychee and osmanthus that also serves as the hotel's unique twist on the iconic St. Regis Bloody Mary. The Drawing Room offers the brand's signature Afternoon Tea ritual, with premium teas and coffees and an elegant selection of Chinese and Western delicacies. Meanwhile, The St. Regis Astor Terrace Bar provides a serene rooftop setting serving vintage wines and signature cocktails; as the sun sets, guests can partake in cocktails celebrating the transition from day to night.

For guests looking to unwind, The St. Regis Spa offers a curated selection of treatments that blend modern wellness innovations with traditional techniques. Guests can rejuvenate with tailored treatments performed by expert therapists in an environment that exudes tranquility and refinement. The spa is complemented by a state-of-the-art Fitness Center featuring a 25-meter infinity pool with sweeping bay views, offering a serene retreat from the city's vibrant pace.

From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an redefines event hosting with sophisticated yet versatile facilities. The 696-square-meter pillarless Astor Ballroom, equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology, provides a sophisticated venue for both social and corporate occasions, ensuring every event is executed with precision and style.

ABOUT THE ST. REGIS SHENZHEN BAO'AN

The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an enjoys a prime location in the heart of the thriving Bao'an District. Featuring 289 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each offering breathtaking views of the city skyline or the bay, the hotel promises a refined and unforgettable stay. Guests can indulge in a variety of dining experiences across four exquisite restaurants and bars, each offering a harmonious blend of St. Regis's signature elegance and the vibrant flavors of local cuisine. The hotel also boasts over 1,000 square meters of versatile event space, including the Astor Ballroom and several meeting rooms, making it the ideal destination for both business and leisure. With personalized butler service, a state-of-the-art Fitness Center, and a luxurious spa, The St. Regis Shenzhen Bao'an redefines the standard of luxury in Shenzhen, offering an exceptional fusion of elegance, service, and innovation.

Hotel website
Michael Faulkner brings extensive experience in luxury hospitality, having held senior commercial leadership roles with renowned brands such as Swire Hotels, Park Hyatt, and Crown Resorts. With a strong background in sales, brand positioning, and distribution, he has successfully driven revenue growth and established award-winning properties across Asia, Australia, and the UK. A seasoned brand strategist, Michael, will heighten URC's global awareness through impactful partnerships to ensure that its distinctive identity and market presence continue to thrive.

Urban Resort Concepts Ltd.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong (SAR) Website
Plamondon Hospitality Partners is pleased to announce the promotion of Nichole Vasquez to the position of Regional Director of Operations for their Marriott hotel locations in Frederick and Hagerstown, Maryland.

Nichole's career with Plamondon began in 2010 when she joined as an hourly associate. Since then, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, advancing through various roles within Plamondon's property portfolio. She has successfully supervised and managed multiple Maryland Marriott properties, consistently delivering outstanding results. Most recently, Nichole oversaw Plamondon's Marriott properties in Frederick and Hagerstown while continuing to serve as General Manager of Courtyard Frederick.

This new role for the operations leadership team reflects their continued dedication to providing the highest level of corporate support in all markets. In the past year, Plamondon Hospitality Partners has further expanded its mluti-state portfolio with an acquisition in Johnstown, Pennsylvania and the opening of a new dual-branded Marriott in Grovetown, Georgia. They now own and operate 16 hotel properties across Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Georgia.

In her expanded role, Nichole will oversee six Maryland hotel properties and help drive operational excellence, guest satisfaction, and success of the associates as they deliver an award-winning hospitality experience.
The European hotel market in January 2025 presented a varied landscape, with regions experiencing both growth and challenges. While Southern and Eastern Europe stood out for their strong performance, while in other markets like Germany there were signs of contraction.

Southern and Eastern Europe led growth, with Spain (+8.5%), Italy (+6.3%), and Portugal (+6.8%) seeing solid RevPAR increases, supported by stable occupancy and higher ADR. Eastern Europe also performed well, with Latvia (+33.5%), Hungary (+19.8%), Poland (+13.9%), and the Czech Republic (+12.3%) benefiting from increased tourism and business travels. In contrast, Germany experienced a 3.2% RevPAR decline, reflecting continued market challenges.

Among hotel segments, the Upscale category led with 6.9% RevPAR growth, while the Midscale segment saw more moderate gains. These trends highlight varying market conditions as the sector adapts to changing demand.

European hotel trends  January 2025: Growth in the South, surge in the East Source: HSMAI Europe

Upscale segment leads market performance

The Upscale segment stood out in January 2025, with 6.9% RevPAR growth, driven by a 1.9-point increase in occupancy to 56.2% and a 3.2% rise in ADR. This reflects strong demand for premium accommodations, a trend likely to continue throughout the year. The Midscale segment also showed positive performance in January 2025, with RevPAR rising by 1.5%, supported by a 0.5-point increase in occupancy to 55.6% and a 1.5% rise in ADR.

In January 2025, the European hotel market showed mixed results, with strong growth in Southern and Eastern Europe contrasting with stability or decline in other regions. Spain, Portugal, and Italy benefited from higher ADR, while Eastern Europe, led by Hungary, Poland, and Latvia, attracted travelers seeking affordable alternatives. The Upscale segment outperformed, reflecting strong demand for premium stays, while the Midscale segment experienced moderate growth.



Article by MKG

About HSMAI Europe

HSMAI  Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International  is a global organisation founded in the US in 1927. HSMAI Region Europe is the European arm of the organisation. HSMAI Europe aims to be a key influencer, pioneer and the go-to industry resource for professional development, commercial strategies and sustainability in the hospitality, travel and tourism industry. With a strong focus on education, HSMAI has become the industry champion in identifying and communicating trends in the hospitality industry while operating as a leading voice for both hospitality and sales, marketing, and revenue management disciplines.

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HSMAI Europe

HSMAI Europe

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Taking as its slogan The World of Travel Lives Here, ITB Berlin 2025 is taking place from 4 to 6 March 2025. Fully booked halls and a record number of 5,800 national and international exhibitors (5 per cent more than in 2024) from over 170 countries underline the global reach of the Worlds Leading Travel Trade Show, while the ITB Buyers Circle with its 1,300 senior buyers is an indicator of the industrys upturn. Particularly in the key travel segments of Cruises and Travel Technology for example, but also in the dynamic markets of Southern Europe, Asia, Africa and the Arab states, there has been significant growth. Albania is presenting itself as the host country with the slogan Albania All Senses. Taking as its heading The Power of Transition Lives Here, the ITB Berlin Convention will address the challenges and opportunities of a changing market with high-profile speakers from companies including Expedia, DERTOUR, Google, Uber, Booking.com, Microsoft Advertising, Wyndham, UN Tourism, TUI, Ryanair and many more. The latest World Travel Monitor findings of IPK International reflect the industry's positive mood.

As ITB Berlin kicks off, the industry is optimistic about the future. According to the latest World Travel Monitor findings of IPK International, outbound travel in 2024 increased by 13 per cent, regaining the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. "This is a welcome development that is also reflected at ITB Berlin, where an optimistic mood and high booking levels are further boosting the positive outlook. With extensive international participation, innovative show formats and a wide-ranging supporting programme, ITB Berlin is also setting the pace in digital networking, efficient dialogue and international cooperation. ITB Berlin 2025 not only promises to be an unrivalled industry experience, but also paves the way for future-oriented growth in the global tourism industry," said Dr Mario Tobias, CEO of Messe Berlin.

2024 growth in outbound travel reaches 2019 levels

According to the latest World Travel Monitor findings of IPK International, in 2024 international travel experienced strong growth. Year-on-year figures show that 2019 levels were finally reached again. Growth in the MICE segment and rising demand in travel from Asia in particular contributed to a sustained upturn in global tourism, while in Europe, Latin America and North America developments were positive too. Spain leads the rankings as the most popular holiday destination, followed by the USA, Germany, France, Italy and destinations such as Mexico, Turkey, the United Kingdom and Austria. At the same time, trips such as sun & beach holidays, city breaks and round trips are experiencing strong growth, and the trend towards direct bookings and alternative accommodation underlines a growing desire for flexibility and individual travel experiences. All these developments and the increasing demand for authentic, high-quality experiences along with comfort, beautiful scenery, culinary highlights and cultural attractions promise good business for the travel industry in 2025.

Taking as its slogan The Power of Transition Lives Here, the ITB Berlin Convention will focus on the major challenges and opportunities of global tourism and highlight how the tourism industry is constantly changing and must permanently adapt to new circumstances. The travel industrys leading think tank features a total of 200 sessions and 17 theme tracks, which will take place on four stages addressing current topics such as sustainability, technology and corporate culture, among many others. Some 400 speakers from major companies including Expedia, DERTOUR, Google, Uber, Booking.com, Microsoft Advertising, Wyndham, UN Tourism, TUI, Sabre, Ryanair, to name a few, will provide fascinating and practical insights into the future of tourism. The numerous sessions can be followed not only on the grounds, but for the first time as a livestream in the ITB Navigator, and afterwards on the YouTube channel of ITB Berlin.

The new ITB Travel & Tourism Report provides exclusive first-hand insights from the industry. Based on a comprehensive survey, the latest report highlights the latest trends and developments regarding business outlook, sustainability, digitalisation and AI. Click here for the ITB Travel & Tourism Report Fact Sheet.

The new ITB Transition Lab is a new convention format that offers packed information with great practical value. Marketing experts from the destination and hospitality sector will present recommendations for action based on data findings over 90 minutes. Participants will be able to take home 20 essential findings and a range of important tips and advice. Another new format is the Corporate Culture Clash track, which looks at the challenges and opportunities of a changing corporate culture. The focus is on topics such as diversity, new work, new technologies and the expectations of Gen Z.

ITB Innovators 2025: forward-looking solutions for future tourism

This year, ITB Innovators 2025 is entering its third round and presenting 35 groundbreaking innovations that are reshaping global tourism. "They bring together the industrys most creative and sustainable ideas and show how digitalisation and environmentally focused innovations are shaping future tourism. At the World's Leading Travel Trade Show, exhibitors will present state-of-the-art technologies and sustainable concepts ranging from smart, AI-based applications to digital distribution models and forward-looking sustainability solutions," said Deborah Rothe, Director of ITB Berlin.

Highlights from this year's ITB Innovators include: Runnr.ai, an AI-based virtual assistant, innovative products such as the Trans-Dinarica Cycle Route, Turista software, and the unlimited eSIM from World Mobile Limited. Jean & Len offers hotels a sustainable solution with its innovative Refill System which reduces plastic waste while making life more comfortable for guests. Sharebox is transforming the car rental industry with innovative, secure and user-friendly key management solutions. BookLogic is presenting MOBY BIKES LTD, its virtual sales manager, while STRIM is showing its shared mobility solution, and myclimate is presenting its Cause We Care platform for offsetting carbon emissions. ehotel Central Billing combines bookings, payments and billing using a centralised, AI-based solution that reduces processing costs, ensures compliance and gives companies full control. The host country Albania is revolutionising agritourism with a digital platform and app. BridgerPay provides solutions for optimising global payment processes. Bryanthinks is presenting its AI Photobox. Other forward-looking solutions for the hotel industry include Speak with ARIS from Hotellistat, as well as KITT, an AI receptionist from The Hotels Network. Further innovations, in contract rationalisation, global payment processes, intelligent guest communications, to name only a few, can be found at ITB Innovators 2025.

Exhibitors showcase wide-ranging products and innovative drive

In the Asia Hall (26), countries including Vietnam, China and Thailand have increased the size of their stands, underlining their strong position in global tourism. Both the Arab states and countries from the Middle East have impressive representations in several halls. Saudi Arabia is the largest exhibitor in Hall 4.2, while Tunisia, Qatar and Jordan (also Hall 4.2), the Emirates Oman and Bahrain (Hall 2.2), as well as Morocco, Israel (Hall 21) and Egypt (Hall 6.2) have significantly larger stands. African countries are also expanding their displays: South Africa is the largest exhibitor in Hall 20, and countries such as Namibia, Madagascar, Ethiopia and Mozambique now have larger stands. Djibouti is a newcomer to Hall 21a, while Uganda, Sierra Leone, Kenya and Tanzania have expanded their displays, highlighting the important role of the African market.

Both the USA and Canada are hosting larger stands in Hall 3.1. In Hall 22b, Central America is represented in even larger numbers than last year. Panama is back with a large stand. Mexico is strongly represented, while Guadalajara is a newcomer to the show. South America reports strong growth in Hall 23, and Peru, Ecuador and Argentina are expanding their displays. Colombia, Brazil and Bolivia are also represented here. In Hall 5.2, the Maldives are presenting a wide range of products, while Nepal has further enlarged its stand area. Australia and New Zealand are taking part again, as is India, which is showcasing a wide range of products.

Spain retains its title as the most popular travel destination. According to the World Travel Monitor, Germany, France, Italy, Turkey, the UK and Austria are also among Europes most in-demand travel destinations. This positive development is reflected at ITB Berlin: hub27, Messe Berlins multi-purpose state-of-the-art hall, is traditionally the venue for the German-speaking countries and regions. In Hall 2.1, the Balearics and the Costa del Sol are occupying larger displays. Valencia, a newcomer, is hosting an impressive stand. In Hall 1.1, Greece now has a larger display. Rhodes is taking up more space than last year. The island of Kos is taking part as an individual exhibitor for the first time, and Cyprus has also increased its display area by 100 square metres. Hall 3.2 is fully booked with numerous exhibitors from Turkey. Bulgaria (Hall 3.2), Italy (with Trenitalia back at the show) and Montenegro (Hall 1.2) are now all on larger stands. In Hall 11.2, the focus is on Central and Eastern European countries, including Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Georgia and Armenia. In Hall 18, along with the Scandinavian countries and Baltic states, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and the Belgian region of Wallonia are represented on larger stands. Abbey Island, Visit Jersey and Visit Guernsey are back at ITB Berlin after a break, reflecting the international diversity and dynamic quality of the show.

Regional displays and themed segments expand

The Travel Technology segment is larger and more international than at previous events, with over 40 countries taking part. Its focus is on AI, eSims, automation and housekeeping technology as well as CRM, booking efficiency and direct booking solutions. The LGBTQ+ Tourism segment (Hall 4.1) is setting the pace with an expanded range of international products, while in the Cruise segment (Hall 25), established providers and innovative newcomers are displaying wide-ranging portfolios. Exhibitors here include AIDA, along with the Carnival Corporation, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises. Other major players, among them Royal Caribbean Cruises, MSC, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Hurtigruten and Disney, are occupying larger stands, while new exhibitors such as Arosa Cruises, Falk Travel and Swiss Group International are also represented here. In the MICE market, business travel is driving growth. Asia DMC, MPI, Aida Cruises and the VDVO are exhibiting at the ITB MICE Hub. The Home of Business Travel and the VDR, who share a common theme, are also located in Hall 10.2.

In Hall 4.1, the Medical & Health Tourism segment, which in particular features many exhibitors from Turkey, along with 80 exhibitors in the Responsible Tourism segment, which reflects the current trend towards sustainable travel, are showing how diverse global tourism has become. The Home of Luxury

has moved to the Palais am Funkturm and is now in direct proximity to the ITB Buyers Circle. Exhibitors represented here include Abercrombie & Kent, Hi DMC and Lobster Experience. The Connoisseur Circle is the media partner. In 2025, the ITB Buyers Circle continues to grow and currently extends over two levels at the Palais am Funkturm. It is sponsored by China.

Innovative formats and digital tools

As well as hosting such a wide range of exhibitors, ITB Berlin 2025 features numerous innovative formats and digital tools that offer genuine benefits for visitors and exhibitors. The ITB Navigator provides access to digital exhibitor lists, an interactive map of the grounds, and detailed event and convention programmes. It can also be used to simultaneously follow livestreamed events. This service is augmented by the newly launched ITB Match & Meet platform, an intelligent networking tool that facilitates direct dialogue. ITB Guided Tours of the Travel Technology, MICE, Innovators, Luxury and Hospitality segments are taking place for the first time. Their primary audience is trade visitors, while the focus is on the main industry trends and developments. The Street Food Market, which has expanded, has moved from Hall 7.2c to Hall 8.2. Exhibitors can also order lunch bags (including bags for the Menschen helfen Menschen (People help People) charity) in advance to reduce waiting times. In Hall 5.3, the Presentation Hub has expanded and is now also open to non-exhibitors. At ITB Berlin 2025, trade visitors, students and exhibitors can for the first time purchase a public transport ticket from the ITB ticket shop in addition to their ITB ticket. This is the result of a new cooperation with Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG). The aim is to make using public transport easier and visiting the trade show more sustainable.

Another important aspect of ITB Berlin 2025 is its wide-ranging supporting programme, which rounds off the trade show with innovative networking events and exclusive meetings with the industry. Thus the ITB Speed Networking event is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year and offering time slots for buyers and exhibitors to engage in rapid and targeted dialogue. The ITB Chinese Night and ITB MICE Night also provide exclusive formats for trade visitors and exhibitors to meet and establish long-term business relations. In cooperation with the German Society for Tourism Science (DGT), the ITB Talent Hub was launched as part of the ITB Career Center to promote young talent and academic exchanges, with the participation of renowned universities such as the University of Innsbruck, the Munich University of Applied Sciences, the Harz University of Applied Sciences and many others. On 5 March, the Connexion Night will be taking place for the first time at ITB Berlin  a new networking event for young tourism professionals organised by ITB Berlin, the Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW) and the Connected agency. This year, the ITB Creator Base, the meeting place for all content creators and travel bloggers, sponsored by Jalisco is Mexico, is new in Hall 10.2.

Please click here for the Media Kit for the opening press conference. This is where you can find the opening report, logos, videos, speeches, a map of the grounds and other information regarding the opening press conference.
Did you know that Jordans hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing in the Middle East, with a projected annual growth rate of over 5%? In the heart of this thriving sector is the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA), a pioneering institution driving excellence in culinary education.

Established in 2008, RACA has not only led the way in developing a skilled workforce, but also in empowering youth and fostering gender equality within the industry. As an EHL Certified School, RACA offers a range of programs, from Bachelor's degrees to vocational courses, focusing on academic excellence and hands-on training. Its comprehensive approach equips students with the practical skills and mindset necessary to meet the evolving demands of the hospitality sector, both locally and regionally.

Join us as we explore how RACA is shaping Jordans culinary future and leaving a significant mark on the countrys hospitality and culinary arts landscape.

Meet Chef Jacques Rossel

Chef Jacques Rossel Source: EHL

Leading the academy is Director Jacques Rossel, a seasoned chef with over three decades of experience from five-star hotels across Switzerland, the Middle East, and Africa. Chef Rossel joined RACA in 2014, bringing his extensive expertise and passion for education to the role. He oversees the day-to-day management of the institution, ensuring its alignment with RACA's strategic goals and values. His mission at RACA has been clear: to foster the next generation of Jordanian culinary talents.

Witnessing young people grow and develop a passion for an industry I have always loved, and seeing them graduate at the end of their studies, is such a reward. Chef Rossel

His passion for teaching mirrors RACAs broader commitment to driving excellence in Jordans hospitality sector.

RACA has been a member of the EHL Network of Certified Schools since 2018 and achieved Certified status in 2022. This recognition underscores RACA's dedication to academic excellence and practical skill development, empowering students to excel in the dynamic world of hospitality.

Becoming a certified member of the network of EHL-certified schools was a huge achievement. Especially significant was RACA's transformation from a Community College offering a two-year Diploma in Culinary Arts to a Technical University College, now able to offer a BA in F&B Management. Chef Rossel

Jordans Hospitality Industry: Growth and Opportunities

Jordans hospitality industry is a key driver of its economy, contributing $5.8 billion to the GDP in 2021, accounting for 19.3% of the countrys total economic output. As international tourism in Jordan continues to rebound post-pandemicespecially with destinations like Petra and Wadi Rum gaining popularitythe demand for skilled culinary professionals has surged.

According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the sector is projected to grow by 8.4% annually over the next decade.

RACAs mission aligns with these growth trends by equipping young Jordanians with world-class training. As Chef Rossel notes, RACA's duty is to prepare its students for this vibrant and ever-changing industry and make them ready for new opportunities.

The Evolution of Jordans Culinary Landscape

In recent years, Jordans culinary landscape has become increasingly international, driven by its growing tourism and expatriate population.

As Chef Rossel highlights, Jordan's culinary landscape has become more international, with many outlets offering a variety of cuisines to please the increasingly well-travelled Jordanian palate.

Furthermore, the rise of cloud kitchens has added a new dimension to the market, particularly in Amman, where online food delivery has seen exponential growth since the COVID-19 pandemic.

RACA plays a pivotal role in preparing its students for this evolving environment, with programs that blend traditional Jordanian cuisine with global culinary trends.

Chef Rossel believes that this balance is essential for students: The program offers a comprehensive view of the culinary world, including local cuisine. Students also learn to appreciate their responsibilities in promoting sustainability through the use of locally sourced ingredients.

Bridging the Skills Gap: RACAs Role in Reducing Youth Unemployment

One of the greatest challenges Jordan faces is its youth unemployment rate, which stood at 48.5% in 2021, among the highest in the region. RACA directly addresses this challenge by providing high-quality vocational training that increases employability in both Jordan and the broader Middle East.

In fact, graduates of RACA are in high demand, with many finding opportunities in neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, where rapid hospitality development is driving the need for skilled chefs and hospitality managers.

RACA must support the efforts of the Jordanian government in combating unemployment and poverty among youth, Chef Rossel asserts.

With the support of EHL Education Consulting experts, RACAs curriculumacademically certified by the EHL Group through its prestigious certification schemeensures that graduates are equipped not only with technical skills but also with leadership and management qualities, positioning them to compete successfully in the international job market.

READ: Whom is Culinary College right for? By Chef Jacques Rossel

Empowering Women in Culinary Arts

RACA is also making strides in promoting gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated industry. According to the World Bank, only 14% of Jordanian women are active in the workforce, a statistic that RACA is working to improve within the hospitality sector. One of RACAs notable success stories involves a young female graduate who, after a successful stint abroad, returned to Jordan to open her own restaurant.

She has become an inspiration for female chefs who still need empowerment in our industry, especially in the Middle East, says Chef Rossel.

By creating an inclusive environment and encouraging female participation, RACA is fostering culinary talent and addressing broader societal challenges related to gender inequality.

Source: EHL

A Vision for the Future: RACAs Long-Term Goals

Looking ahead, RACA aims to continue its leadership role in shaping Jordans culinary landscape. Chef Rossel envisions the academy playing a larger role in promoting vocational education, combating unemployment, and empowering women.

The Jordanian government is promoting vocational education and lifelong learning more than ever. I believe RACA has the opportunity to pave the way for a new vocational identity in the food and beverage sector, he says.

With Jordans tourism industry set to expand and the government prioritizing job creation in high-demand sectors, RACA is positioned to be a key player in the countrys economic future.

RACAs journey over the past 15 years has been marked by excellence, innovation, and a commitment to empowering Jordans youth. As the countrys culinary landscape evolves, so too does RACAs role in preparing the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals. Under Chef Jacques Rossels leadership, the academy remains dedicated to shaping a brighter future for Jordans hospitality industryone where tradition meets innovation, and where passion meets opportunity.

About EHL Group

EHL Group is the global reference in education, innovation and consulting for the hospitality and service sector.

With expertise dating back to 1893, EHL Group now offers a wide range of leading educational programs from apprenticeships to master's degrees, as well as professional and executive education, on three campuses in Switzerland and Singapore. EHL Group also offers consulting and certification services to companies and learning centers around the world. True to its values and committed to building a sustainable world, EHL Group's purpose is to provide education, services and working environments that are people-centered and open to the world. www.ehlgroup.com

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

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Last year in February I published an article The law of unintended - or is it intended? - consequences coming to a restaurant near you, in which I argued that the new California law taking effect in April 2024, requiring fast-food chain restaurants to start paying a minimum of $20 an hour ($41,760 a year plus benefits), would affect adversely both consumers and restaurateurs alike:

Consumers, especially from disadvantaged communities who frequent these fast-food restaurants, will be one of the biggest losers since the restaurants will have to increase prices to accommodate this minimum wage increase.

Restauranteurs of any size will be affected negatively as well by this new rule: if the McDonalds nearby is paying $20/hour, what should your restaurant pay to retain employees? Prices at these restaurants will go up as well, in addition to the nearly 30% price increases since the start of the pandemic, which means that they will lose customers and revenues as well.

Fast forward to today: a new study by The Berkeley Research Group discovered that there were 10,700 fast-food job losses in California between June 2023 and June 2024 in the sector, (Bureau of Labor Statistics data), and prices at the establishments soared by 14.5% after the new minimum wage became law.

Fast-food restaurant jobs are starter jobs. Jobs for high-schoolers, college students, young people in-between jobs. Summer jobs. Jobs to teach you of discipline, teamwork, time management, responsibilities, traits you will need throughout your life.

But a fast-food restaurant job is not a life-long career choice. Not meant to provide living ages to adults in their 30s, 40s, 50s. And indeed, the average fast food worker age is 23 years old. I guess Californian politicians did not know that.

So how are fast-food restauranteurs, licensees and franchisees handling the new minimum wage law?

California fast food restaurants increased automation and technology adoption to offset rising labor costs, the Berkeley Research study released Feb. 18 stated.

The food and beverage industry in the US installed 25% more F&B robots last year, according to a robotics report by IRF. Many robotics companies, like Miso Robotics, Bear Robotics, Keenon, Peanut Robotics, Kitchen Robotics, Hyper Food Robotics, have seen huge spikes in inquiries for their robots due to labor shortages and new minimum wage hikes like the one in California.

McDonalds, Dominos, Macdonalds, Sweetgreen and other fast-food chains are already testing fully robotic restaurants.

Next time, when you visit a California fast-food restaurant, the chance is you will meet more robotic than human workers.

The law of unintended - or is it intended? - consequences coming to a restaurant near you. | By Max Starkov
Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury - Image Credit IHG Hotels & Resorts



IHG Hotels & Resorts introduces its midscale conversion brand, Garner Hotels, to the UK with its first hotel in Preston Samlesbury, marking significant growth since its launch in 2023.

IHG Hotels & Resorts (IHG) has announced the UK debut of its midscale conversion brand, Garner Hotels. Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury is the first in the UK, marking a significant milestone in the brand's expansion since its inception in 2023.

The new Preston Samlesbury hotel, managed by KRO Hospitality and located in Northern England, joins an expanding portfolio of Garner Hotels in Europe. This development comes after IHG and NOVUM Hospitality's agreement to bring over 50 Garner Hotels to Germany.

Each Garner hotel is unique, designed to deliver a relaxed and comfortable experience for guests who appreciate authenticity over luxury. The brand prioritizes comfort and convenience, with free Wi-Fi, high-quality coffee, and snacks at the Garner Shop.

Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury, with its 80 stylish guestrooms spread across three floors, embodies the brand's ethos of "Made with Character." The hotel's reception area features a signature Garner feature wall, showcasing Sketches of Humanity, a unique touch that reflects the brand's commitment to diversity and community.

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Joanna Kurowska, VP and Managing Director of IHG Hotels & Resorts in the UK & Ireland, expressed her enthusiasm for the brand's UK debut. She highlighted the company's partnership with owners committed to investing in high-quality hotels supporting local communities. Neelesh Chaturvedi, General Manager of Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury, emphasized the hotel's commitment to providing affordable-quality stays.

The hotel offers a range of amenities, including dining options like the Village Brasserie and the Lounge Bar, conference and event spaces for business travelers, and a well-equipped Fitness Suite. The hotel is located near the M6s junction 31 and offers easy access to key locations such as Preston, Manchester, Liverpool, the Lake District, and Blackpool.

Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury joins IHGs global portfolio of more than 117 Garner hotels operating or in the pipeline since the brand's launch in 2023. IHG has also announced the first signings in Turkey and Italy.
Hiroshi Nakamura, President & CEO, FET SYSTEM INC & Kiyohito Iinuma, COO, IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan - Image Credit IHG Hotels & Resorts



IHG Hotels & Resorts is set to expand its presence in Japan by refurbishing and reopening the 114-room ANA Holiday Inn Iwate Kitakami, slated for Q3 of 2025.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, in partnership with Odate Royal Hotel Inc., a FET SYSTEM INC. subsidiary, announced plans to open ANA Holiday Inn Iwate Kitakami in Q3 2025. This marks the second collaboration between IHG and FET SYSTEM INC., following their joint venture with ANA Crowne Plaza Kumamoto New Sky.

Presently operating as Hotel City Plaza Kitakami, the building is scheduled for an extensive renovation. The refurbishment will upgrade its 114 guest rooms and introduce Holiday Inn brand features, including its signature Open Lobby concept.

Upon reopening, ANA Holiday Inn Iwate Kitakami will join the growing portfolio of 12 Holiday Inn hotels operational and in the pipeline across Japan. This addition further cements the brand's prominence in the country and extends its global footprint, which currently boasts 1,249 open hotels and 266 pipeline properties worldwide.

The renovated hotel will attract domestic and international guests, including IHG One Rewards members. Amenities include multiple dining options, a cafe and bar, banquet rooms, and traditional Japanese baths.

Abhijay Sandilya, IHG's Managing Director for Japan & Micronesia, and CEO of IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan, expressed delight at strengthening their partnership with FET SYSTEM INC. He underscored IHG's commitment to expanding the Holiday Inn brand in Japan and leveraging IHG's global scale and enterprise systems for maximized returns.

Sandilya anticipates welcoming guests to ANA Holiday Inn Iwate Kitakami later this year, including the 145 million IHG One Rewards members worldwide.

Hiroshi Nakamura, President & CEO of FET SYSTEM INC., also expressed pleasure in collaborating with IHG. He noted the Holiday Inn brand's scale and reputation as key decision factors in their strategy for the hotel. With its central location and upgraded facilities, Nakamura envisions the hotel serving as a hub for travelers exploring the region.

Located a seven-minute walk from JR Kitakami Station, the hotel provides easy access to the Tohoku region. It also offers proximity to key local attractions, such as the famous Tenshochi Park and other renowned cultural and historical sites.

IHG currently operates five hotels under three brands in Tohoku. The opening of ANA Holiday Inn Iwate Kitakami will mark the sixth IHG hotel and the third Holiday Inn property in Tohoku, further reinforcing the company's commitment to growth in Japan.
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Friends of the Berkshire Athenaeum to Hold Spring Booksale

PITTSFIELD, Mass.  The Friends of the Berkshire Athenaeum will hold their Spring Booksale from Thursday, March 6 to Saturday, March 8 at the Berkshire Athenaeum.

The sale will feature a wide variety of books, including Irish-themed books, bargain books, really old books, coffee table books, large donations of books about art, antiques, maritime, music, and media, knitting books and guides, puzzles, games, sheet music, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, vinyl records, bestsellers, books signed by the author, hardcover and trade paperback fiction arranged by author, and all books arranged by topic.

The hours for the sale are:

Thursday, March 6: Members night 3-7 pm (join at the door)

Friday, March 7: 10 am to 4 pm

Saturday, March 8: 10 am to 3 pm

Book donations are accepted at circulation desks during library hours. Large donations are accepted in the garage Monday and Wednesday 9 am to 12 pm.

The Friends of the Berkshire Athenaeum is a non-profit organization that supports the library through fundraising and advocacy.
The former residence had been turned into offices, and in September 2023, a fire destroyed the wall of an adjoining two-car garage.

Haddad Subaru House to Be Demolished

PITTSFIELD, Mass. The house hiding behind Subarus on East Street will soon be demolished.



On Monday, the Historical Commission voted to approve the demolition of 676 East St pending a site visit and additional interior photos. The 1938 single family on Haddad Subaru's property had a fire two years ago. It will now be used for inventory space.



"Well, for starters, there was a fire in the wall of the garage, which made it so that repairing it and using it was somewhat costly," explained Bryan Siter of Foresight Land Services.



"But also as a car dealership, it's just not a very useful building for the dealership so they're looking to demolish it and then expand car storage, parking area, essentially."



The former residence had been turned into offices, and in September 2023, a fire destroyed the wall of an adjoining two-car garage. The damage could be seen around the one-story garage, which connects to the two-story Dutch colonial.



"It's gone through a number of owners until it was eventually part of Pete's Motors as their rental office and now it's been sitting pretty vacant for quite a while," Siter said.



Chair John Dickson observed that it looked like a "pretty healthy building" and commissioners wondered if there were any salvable historical elements inside. While Siter will have to check with the owner, he said a tour and additional photos of the interior will likely be feasible.



Commission members pointed to the building's "interesting" architecture and its modernity for its time.


Dalton Space Needs Assessed for Safety Facility

DALTON, Mass.  Earlier this month, the Public Safety Facility Advisory Committee approved the draft space needs assessment for the town's police department.

The proposed one-story building would be 13,350 gross square feet, a size determined to accommodate future growth and accreditation requirements. An additional outbuilding of 1,800 square feet is also planned.

Now that the document has been approved, Jacunski Humes Architects LLC can begin evaluating options for a proposed police facility.

Options include building a new facility on a vacant site, remodeling an existing building, or demolishing and rebuilding on a potential site.

The evaluation will utilize four model locations provided by the committee. More information on the ranked properties here

During a Select Board meeting, committee co-chair Craig Wilbur explained that, based on the study and his prior projects, the estimated cost is between $800 and $1,000 per square foot.

This estimate depends on factors including building amenities, site restrictions, and finishes, among other things, he said.

"Just the cost of construction alone, not the acquisition of property, somewhere between $12 million or $13 and a half million dollars," Wilbur said.

The $800 to $1,000 per square foot range includes equipment costs; however, it is too early in the process to determine the exact amount needed to equip the station.

The building would be fitted with furniture, equipment, and accessories to operate the facility. Some things may be brought from the police department but other items may have to be procured, Wilbur said.

The facility will include a dispatch center. Gabrielle Taglieri, communication center director, said the state owns the center, which underwent upgrades approximately two years ago.

She said additional equipment will be needed to create two fully functional dispatch stations, rather than the current one and a half.

"We would be looking at upgrading our antenna, a lot of that depends on where the facility isbut, I'm pretty confident moving forward that when it comes to our portion for the communication center, state funding with the development grant will assist," Taglieri said.

Wilbur emphasized that it is too early to tell what the cost of the facility will be, including the equipment. However, part of what the architect will do is look at all the equipment the station and communication has and determine what is needed for the facility.

The space needs study, committee co-chair Don Davis said, is based on recommendations from Brian Humes, owner of Jacunski Humes Architects LLC of Berlin, Conn., to ensure the facility meets state and federal accreditation standards.

Davis said the inclusion of a training room in the facility may reduce the department's budget by eliminating the need for law enforcement to travel for training.

There is always grant money available, including potential regionalization or dispatch grants, he said.

Board members said they would like to see the "good, better, best" options demonstrating what the town can feasibly obtain.

Humes' analysis of the properties will determine the town's potential uses for the parcels ranked by the committee for the study.

The committee hopes to have the analysis complete by the end of April.

The descriptions of the various spaces in the assessment came from discussions between Humes and the department. The square footage allocations for each space are based on industry standards and comparisons to other similar-sized departments. More information on the draft space needs assessment here

Additionally, Humes took a future-focused approach, anticipating growth in staffing and departmental functions, to ensure the proposed facility could accommodate the department's needs over the next 20 to 50 years.

Each section of the station is broken down into 24 sections, each of which includes square footage allocations for the needs for each area.

Sections include a space for the public, a Communications Dispatch Center, administration space, a sally port, prisoner processing, a detention center, an area that would be utilized for training, meetings, and an Emergency Operations Center, another section for interviews and public permitting, a records clerk, an investigations and detectives bureau, general office, animal control officer, a quiet room or lactation room, patrol functions, and more.

The storage outbuilding includes sections for road supplies storage, bulk evidence storage, found property storage, and department equipment storage bay. Each of these sections also has square footage allocations based on need.

The reason municipalities choose to build an outbuilding is because they are less expensive to build than the main building.

"These are all required spaces in a police department that aren't negotiable. The size of them as [Humes] will say is negotiable but then you're starting to cut down functionality," Wilbur said.

"So, if something requires 200 square feet and you want to cut it down to 100 does that make sense for the space now to be rendered useless. And those are the topics that we've been having in the committee about how we can reduce it and if we can reduce it."

Vice Chair Dan Esko said his goal is reducing the building footprint enough to save money for taxpayers while still getting the police facility the town needs.

"We cant forget a part of this station will be taken up by the communication center," said John Boyle, board member.

"and Emergency Management," Davis added.

"Esko brings up a good pointhow can we keep the price down. There is only one way we can" Boyle said adding that he agrees with Davis that the spaces included in the proposed station are "all pretty much mandated."

Boyle said that property acquisition is a high cost, and that the town already owns property. He emphasized that he has previously advocated using the old Dalton High property for town use.

The lot is designated for housing and would require a town meeting vote to approve building a station on that location.

Davis said that the old Dalton High property is one of the locations Humes is evaluating

"Our committee has been working very hard, every member of our committee has dug in and worked every avenue," Davis said.

The committee is still strategizing and navigating possible options for the proposed facility, whether it is building a new facility on a vacant site, remodeling an existing building, or demolishing and rebuilding on a potential site, the committee representative emphasized.

Board member Robert Collins said he has attended a number of committee meetings where the idea of regionalization to qualify for additional grant funding has been discussed.

"In order for this committee to be able to do justice to the town I think we have to really consider regionalization so we can tap into some of the other possibilities that our legislators can help generate some of the larger funds for building this size," he said.

"I mean we have Windsor, Hinsdale, Peru that would fall into the regionalization territory plan that not only the state but the federal government has also promoted."

Chair Robert W. Bishop Jr. cautioned about regionalization because the town does not want to put itself in a position that could cost more money.

"I am all for regionalization but do it correctly," he said.

The decision on regionalization should come from the board so the committee has a direction, Wilbur said.

"If regionalization is something of importance to the town add that to our task and we will include it," he said.

One possibility is a hybrid regionalization model, where the municipalities share services but are managed under their own town staff, Davis said.

"The concept of regionalization does not change the design of the building. We are not adding more square feet for regionalization; we are adding more processes to the police department," Wilbur said.

"I think what not what we're saying is that regionalization or no regionalization the building itself wouldn't change based on that alone."
lunedi 3 marzo 2025, 19:16 - Last updated: 4 marzo, 11:33

American foreign policy no longer solely relies on seasoned diplomats and secretaries of state. The secret weapon is Maye Musk. Former model, women's empowerment guru, and mother, among others, of Elon, the most talked-about billionaire of Silicon Valley, Maye is proving to be an unexpected key figure in international relations. China, Kazakhstan, United Arab Emirates: in the past six months, her passport has collected more stamps than that of a foreign minister. It seems some countries want to approach President Donald Trump's administration by bypassing the narrow paths of bureaucracy and diplomacy and taking the highway of the Musk family. The ride? Obviously in a Tesla. THE RUMORS According to the Guardian, Kazakhstan hopes, for example, to ease trade restrictions imposed by Washington, while the United Arab Emirates are seeking to secure a substantial package of American weaponry. China, for its part, looks with suspicion at the new tariffs imposed by Trump and hopes to turn Musk into a strategic ally. The Tesla and SpaceX boss has many interests in the Asian giant, and it seems Beijing is convinced that the best way to win over the son is to start with the mother. Maye Musk is already a superstar in China, with over 1.2 million social media followers and a packed schedule of public events. Invitations as a keynote speaker, participation in conferences, glamorous appearances: in no time, she has become a sort of first lady of innovation. Her fame has also been consolidated thanks to an advertisement in which, dressed in her usual impeccable style, she encourages disobedient children to express themselves, reminding them that "no prominent figure of our time grew up following the rules." A message that, read in a political key, takes on much more strategic tones. In Shanghai, three days after the American elections, Maye Musk openly discussed the role her son could have in the new administration, with a statement that sounds almost like an informal briefing: "He will work on efficiency, but what he likes are rockets and cars." Translated: don't bother him with politics as long as business is going well. But if this is the message Maye intends to convey, it may not be enough to quell growing concerns about a possible conflict of interest. Because if Mama Musk travels, shakes hands, and attends events with world leaders interested in her son's affairs, the line between private and public figure could become blurred. And this is the concern of some American analysts. THE CAREER On the other hand, Maye Musk is not just "Elon's mother." With her memoir, in which she recounts her experience as a single mother and survivor of domestic violence, she has won over a large audience of Chinese women. A success that mixes empowerment and image, making her a model of independence and resilience. Elon Musk, already at the center of controversy for drastic cuts to his Department of Efficiency, now also faces suspicion of an overly intrusive family influence in relations between Washington and the countries courting his mother.
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Self-taught Scottish painter Jack Vettriano has been found dead at his apartment in Nice, in the south of France, his publicist said.

The 73-year-old, who was born Jack Hoggan on 17 November 1951, in Methil, Fife, was found on Saturday. It is understood there are no suspicious circumstances around his death.

His publicist said in a statement: Jack Vettrianos passing marks the end of an era for contemporary Scottish art. His evocative and timeless works will continue to captivate and inspire future generations.

The artist grew up in poverty, sharing a bed with his brother. He worked to earn a living from the age of 10, with his miner father taking half his wage. He left school at 15 to become a mining engineer.

In the 1970s, a girlfriend brought him a set of watercolours for his 21st birthday, at which point Vettriano immersed himself in art.

open image in gallery Painter Jack Vettriano in the Bonhams in Edinburgh as he stands beside his Winsor and Newton easel on which his early works were painted ( PA )

He taught himself by studying art at the Kirkcaldy Galleries.

His early paintings were imitations of the work of other artists, particularly the Impressionists; his first was a copy of Claude Monets Poppy Fields.

He left his wife and quit his job in educational research at age 36, but had his artwork rejected after he applied to study fine art at the University of Edinburgh.

His breakthrough came in 1998 when he submitted two paintings to the Royal Scottish Academys annual show and both sold on the first day, inspiring him to become a full-time artist.

Despite undeniable commercial and mainstream success, Vettriano never enjoyed a good relationship with art critics, with some describing his work as brainless and dim erotica.

But the artist was undeterred. They dont like an artist who is as popular as me because it takes away part of their authority, he once said. If they want to ignore me, let them.

open image in gallery The Singing Butler hanging in Hopetoun House ( PA )

I have what I want and that is the support of the public and that means far more to me than the approval of a bunch of well-educated art buffs.

Vettrianos celebrity collectors include Sir Alex Ferguson, Jack Nicholson, Terence Conran and Tim Rice, who have paid anything from 40,000 for a small work to hundreds of thousands for a major canvas at auction.

He became not only a household name but a fixture, thanks mainly to The Singing Butler, his painting of an elegant couple waltzing on a blustery beach as two windswept servants look on.

open image in gallery Jack Vettriano has died aged 73 ( PA )

Having been rejected by the Royal Scottish Academy for its summer exhibition, the canvas was first sold privately in 1991 for 3,000. In 2004, it sold at auction for 744,800, breaking the record for any Scottish painting, and indeed for any painting by any artist ever sold in Scotland.

By that time it had already sold over a million posters and brought in royalties of half a million pounds a year, or enough cash for Vettriano to buy a horse and name it The Singing Butler. In a 2017 poll, the painting was voted the third most popular in the UK.

He would go on to hold exhibitions across the world, including in London, Hong Kong and New York, with a 2013 retrospective held at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery in Glasgow.

In later years, he divided his time between Kirkcaldy and Nice.

In 2010, he told The Independent: I live in a world of heartbreak ... I just seem to be more creative when Im in some kind of emotional distress, adding, Its been four years of soul-searching  nicotine, alcohol, anti-depressants, temazepam.

In 2012, he was convicted of drink-driving and possession of amphetamine. He was banned from driving for 18 months and fined 800.

His influence on modern artists remains. Banksys work Crude Oil (Vettriano) reimagined The Singing Butler, already one of the most celebrated pictures in Britain, in his landmark 2005 exhibition Crude Oils: A Gallery of Re-mixed Masterpieces, Vandalism and Vermin.

Scotlands first minister John Swinney was among those to pay tribute to the artist for making a unique and evocative contribution to artistic life in Scotland in such compelling style.

He added: Jack was also a philanthropist for a number of important causes and I know his loss will be sorely felt by many across Scotland and the world.
Anne Sebbas The Womens Orchestra of Auschwitz: A Story of Survival (Weidenfeld & Nicolson) is a tale of endurance, revolving around the inspirational force of music and the sheer power of small acts of kindness. The book, a well-researched study that includes first-hand accounts about surviving Nazi death camps, is also a testimony to the strength of female solidarity in the most wretched circumstances. As one of the musicians puts it: Who can understand these people? One moment they want Schumanns Traumerei, the next moment they are putting people in the fire.

One of the more unusual books out this month is Willow Winshams The Story of Witches: Folklore, History and Superstition (Batsford). Witches are believed to have helped stop Napoleon from invading England; in his book, Winsham notes that thousands of witches across the United States took part in a ritual against president Donald Trump in 2017. Maybe spells just aint what they were.

The best reissues of March include Fabers paperback editions of three classic Samuel Beckett novels: Molloy, Malone Dies, and The Unnamable. In the new introduction to Molloy, Colm Toibin reminds readers of Becketts ability to mix the tender and the savage in his writing, as well as his penchant for providing less than wholesome humour.

The autobiography, novel and non-fiction books of the month are reviewed in full below.

Autobiography of the month: Bookish: How Reading Shapes Our Lives by Lucy Mangan



open image in gallery Lucy Mangans Bookish is certainly for the bookish  an affectionate, warm guide to the healing power of reading ( Penguin Random House )

Lucy Mangans Bookish: How Reading Shapes Our Lives is the follow-up to the journalists 2018 release Bookworm: A Childhood Memoir and picks up as a sort of ongoing autobiography from her teenage years. The choice presented to adolescent girls in the 1980s, she writes, was to be placed in the bimbo box (aiming to be attractive to boys by being pretty, booby, acquiescent) or the geeky box and endure the awkward teenage years for the bookish as a result.

Elsewhere, The Guardian TV critic offers interesting thoughts on how GCSE curricula can damage childrens relationship with literature; she provides a solid defence of guilty-pleasure reading, including of Shirley Conrans 1982 novel Lace, a scandalous bonkbuster of its time. Im pretty much in agreement with Mangan about the value of escapist fiction, although we have different tastes. For example, she admits to being one of many adults who loved the Harry Potter books, confessing that when she worked at the Bromley Waterstones she waited as eagerly and impatiently as any of our child customers for the next instalment in JK Rowlings series.

Bookish also deals with reading when you are pregnant (can she be alone among expectant mothers who were given a copy of What to Expect When Youre Expecting and then hurled it across the room?) and ends with lockdown  when books saved me.

Most touching are the moments in which she recalls her late father (who died in January 2023) and her memories of how he used to buy her treasured books. Bookish is certainly for the bookish  an affectionate, warm guide to the healing power of reading.

Bookish: How Reading Shapes Our Lives by Lucy Mangan is published by Square Peg on 13 March, 18.99

Novel of the month: Twist by Colum McCann



open image in gallery Colum McCanns stunning novel Twist follows two Irishmen off Africa as vital underwater cables are repaired ( Bloomsbury )

Colum McCanns Apeirogon was one of my books of the year for 2020, so I approached Twist with high expectations. They were not misplaced. His new novel, about an Irish journalist and playwright called Anthony Fennell and his assignment to write about the underwater cables that carry the worlds information, is simply stunning.

Fennell travels to Cape Town to board the Georges Lecointe, a cable repair vessel captained by chief of mission John Conway, a mysterious and reckless freediver who repairs shattered fibre-optic tubes at unfathomable depths. When the mission falters and Conway disappears, Fennell tries to find him in what becomes part thriller and part exploration of narrative and truth. (There are deliberate echoes of Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness.)

The other main character is Conways estranged wife Zanele, an actor and ocean lover who offers some stark views on what is happening to the waters that Conway inhabits. She tells Fennell that 4 billion tonnes of industrial waste are being dumped in the sea every year. If this was happening in a f***ing sci-fi movie, wed get it, but we dont, she says. If we had any sense, we would all die of shame.

There are vivid descriptions of the sea (everything gets filtered out except the blue, its like being in a Miles Davis song, says Conway) and of the drinking that has wrought such damage on Fennells complicated private life.

Twist is a truly thought-provoking novel about truth, the universal propensity to misdirect when it comes to our own character, and the shoddiness of the web age and what Fennell calls the obscene certainty of our days. It is hard not to conclude that whatever benefits technology brings, internet connection comes at the price of human disconnection.

The 21st-century human seems a very broken thing in Twist. And McCanns novel, penned by a brilliant storyteller at the height of his powers, has a disconcerting ability to help you simultaneously find and lose your bearings.

Twist by Colum McCann is published by Bloomsbury on 6 March, 18.99

Non-fiction book of the month: Changing My Mind by Julian Barnes



open image in gallery Julian Barnes offers a sane, sardonic guide to the world in Changing My Mind and demonstrates why it is beneficial to have flexibility of thought ( Notting Hill Editions )

Fellow oldies past their prime will surely offer a nod of recognition at Julian Barness ruminations on how memory degrades. It arrives in the Memory section of Changing My Mind (a collection of essays partly broadcast on radio a decade ago), in which Barnes explains how he has altered his opinion over the years and now believes that memory is a feeble guide to the past. Late in life he now believes, like his philosopher brother as it happens, that a single persons memory is no better than an act of the imagination when it is uncorroborated and unsubstantiated by other evidence.

Changing your mind is a running theme across the books four other sections  Words, Politics, Books and Age and Time  which are all provocative and entertaining. The section on politics is perhaps the most revealing. Barnes, who was born in 1946 and who remains one of Britains finest modern novelists, writes that the only time he voted Conservative was in the early 1970s, when it was a choice between Edward Heath and Harold Wilson. He also offers an amusing account of what would happen in Barness Benign Republic. Among his pledges are a 50-year ban on any Old Etonian from becoming prime minister and turning at least one royal palace into a museum of the slave trade.

Barnes offers a sane, sardonic guide to the world and demonstrates why it is beneficial to have flexibility of thought. He changed his mind about the merits of author EM Forster, for example, after reading a delightful description of a breakfast Forster was served on a boat train to London in the 1930s: Porridge or prunes, sir?. The book is perfect for a reflective hour or so of reading. Although it is slight (57 pages in a small octodecimo format), less is definitely more with Changing My Mind.

Changing My Mind by Julian Barnes is published by Notting Hill Editions on 18 March, 8.99
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There is, admittedly, something terribly uncool about rooting for Best Picture Oscar winner  but sometimes the Academy Awards do actually get it right. For Sean Bakers Anora, crowned during a ceremony that saw it also take home four other awards including Best Director and Best Actress, is as delicious as they come.

A rags to riches tale for 2025, the film begins with Mikey Madisons Anora, or Ani as she prefers to be called, working as a stripper at a Midtown Manhattan club when a new client (the boisterous, boyish Vanya played by Mark Eydelshteyn) asks for a Russian-speaking dancer. They hit it off. He offers her $15,000 to be his live-in girlfriend for the week; she haggles him to $25,000 and so begins a spell of partying and sex that concludes in a Las Vegas wedding. There is also, amid the drugs and fur coats, genuine affection between the two. The brakes are put on when Vanyas oligarch parents catch wind of the marriage and send their goons (including the Oscar-nominated Yura Borisov as the soulful, sweet Igor) to squash it.

The film, which mixes elements of slapstick and romcom with heavy drama, is not so much a play on the Pretty Woman trope as it is a glitter bomb implosion of it. The American dream has its limits, and Bakers film tests them all. Its worth noting here, as one reviewer did, that Anora was the only nominee in the Best Picture category this year set in the quote-unquote here and now; the others took place in fantasy realms or past decades. But in addition to being a commentary on class, labour, and sex work, Anora is also very simply entertaining. There is a superbly off-kilter fight sequence, an array of zany one-liners, and a by-the-numbers enemies-to-lovers arc thats impossible to resist.

At the centre of it all is Mikey Madison. After small but memorable parts as an acid-soaked Charles Manson acolyte in Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood and an unassuming Ghostface in the Scream franchise, Anora arrived at an opportune moment for the actor, a star-making role if ever there was one. And as the hard-talking, fast-speaking Ani, Madison goes for broke.

She puts to use skills she honed playing Pamela Adlons eldest daughter in FXs superb five-season series Better Things  youthful naivety manifesting as confidence. She is a calloused ball of self-preservation coming apart against her better judgement at the alluring promise of Vanyas Cinderella fantasy.

When Baker frames her face in the centre of his 35mm widescreen composition as he does regularly throughout the film, its impossible not to see a star in the making  the threads of tinsel catching the light against her black hair.

Mikey Madison and Mark Eydelshteyn in Anora ( Neon )

For all its fable-like qualities  damsel in distress, burly brutes, white knight  the film feels completely real. No doubt partly down to the fact that Baker shot it entirely on location: in a real-life strip club, mansion, candy shop, restaurant, gas station, pool hall, airport, hotel, and other such places. Into the mix of professional actors, Baker threw in nonprofessionals, only adding to its lived-in quality.

Baker himself felt overdue an Oscar. That he received his first-ever nods for Anora is strange given the greatness of The Florida Project, his tender tale of motel-dwelling children, and Tangerine, his even better iPhone-shot comedy about transgender sex workers. Ill end on the fact that Anora was also responsible for one of the greatest needle drops in recent memory. An EDM remix of Take Thats Greatest Day set to a series of gyrating hips over mens laps? Perfection.
A few years ago I attended a John Lydon concert inside a Somerset covered market. The music was good and the mood was cheerful, with the crowd liberally studded with infirm, ageing punks. There were punks clutching walking frames and punks in wheelchairs. There was even a dead punk in an urn who had requested that the ex-Pistol scatter his ashes on stage. Lydon obliged and pretended to gag. He said, No offence, mate, but you taste like Gauloises.

Forget the tired adage about policemen getting young. Its punks getting old thats the real measure of age, at least for those of us who were raised in the afterglow of new wave music and grindhouse cinema. Its seeing the upstarts and berserkers who once electrified the Eighties and Nighties being quietly steered into retirement homes or laid to rest and memorialised. In life these people embodied something wild, dark and delicious. In death they are reduced to a set of smiling memes and inspirational quotes. Im not sure which is more alarming.

Anyone reading the recent tributes to David Lynch, for instance, would be forgiven for thinking of him as Americas eccentric, benign uncle, beaming out on his flock with a mug of warm coffee and his daily meditation advice. That was certainly one aspect of the man, although it rather risks glossing over the actual work he produced. Lynchs art wasnt sweet. The Straight Story aside, it was chaotic and savage  meant to chill us to the bone. There goes the Willy Wonka of filmmaking, gushed Lara Flynn Boyle the day after his death, as though hed just exited stage-left after singing Pure Imagination to a group of starstruck children.

open image in gallery Clinging on: Lars Von Trier is due to direct his next film this summer ( PA )

One dreads to imagine how Lars von Trier will be described when his number is up. The Just William of filmmaking? Arthouses Horrid Henry? For the time being, thank goodness, the man is still clinging on  impish and awkward and presumably still raising hell in his immediate circle. But in 2022, Von Trier announced that he had been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease. Last month his production company confirmed that he is now being treated at a care centre in Denmark. Lars is doing well under the circumstances, said producer Louise Vesth. You could read a whole book into those final three words.

A film should be like a stone in your shoe, Von Trier used to say, by which he meant that it should be troublesome and annoying and occasionally downright painful. Thats not for all tastes  probably its not for most tastes  but the Danes best stones were finely cut works of art, like little diamonds, and I cant think of another director from the past 30 years who has been so reliably exciting and enraging. Von Triers films dont care whether we like them or not. Theyre provocative and discombobulating. They practically invite our revulsion and rage. Perversely, thats what made them all the more beautiful. For years the most violent audience response Id ever witnessed came at the Cannes press screening of Antichrist (2009). It was only topped by the Cannes press screening of The House That Jack Built (2018).

Fans will no doubt take a crumb of comfort from Vesths assertion that Von Trier is doing well under the circumstances. But one might argue that this is what hes always done: made lemons into tart lemonade; turned those pebbles into diamonds. Hes shot all of his films in the teeth of alcoholism and depression. If there were no impediments to be had, hed quite likely devise them himself, as he famously did with his infamous Dogme 95 Manifesto. Here, the rules state that the camera be hand-held, that genre movies were unacceptable, and that all shooting had to be achieved on location using natural sound and light. Granted, Dogme 95 was a joke but it made some valid points. A challenge is a privilege. The difficulty is the point.

Lars von Triers films dont care whether we like them or not. Theyre provocative and discombobulating. They practically invite our revulsion and rage

Von Trier is due to direct again this summer  assuming hes not incapacitated; assuming the difficulty can be met. His next film is called After and is reputedly about death. After has always been designed to be made based on Larss physical condition, explained his friend, producer Peter Aalbaek Jensen. He has always used limitations for something creative.

In 2020 the filmmaker Gaspar Noe, the rambunctious creator of Enter the Void, Irreversible and Climax, suffered a near-fatal brain haemorrhage. He emerged from the hospital in a more sombre, reflective mood to shoot the magnificent Vortex (2021), which trailed a dying old couple around a cramped Paris flat. Quiet and stealthy where Noes pictures had been loud, brash and stroboscopic, Vortex points the direction that Von Trier might choose to go himself assuming he is able to get After off the ground. It shows that it is possible to survive, slip death and make a different kind of film. It may not be as lively as Von Trier's trademark provocations, but it's better than the alternative.

open image in gallery Antichrist: Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg in Lars von Triers controversial film ( Rex Features )

I wonder, though, if this might be the endgame for a certain strain of uncompromising left-field cinema. Lynch has already left the building. Von Trier and Noe are ailing. Almodovar and Ferrara have aged. In the meantime Yorgos Lanthimos and Pablo Larrain, their natural successors, appear to have mellowed prematurely.

Perhaps disturbing, dark cinema is a luxury we feel we can no longer afford. Not when the US president is sharing his Trump Gaza movie to the fanbase, or Elon Musk is cosplaying The Texas Chainsaw Massacre on stage. But the films of Lynch and Von Trier arent debasing or poisonous. Theyre thrilling, galvanising and sometimes maddening, too; the equivalent of those abstracts by Kandinsky, Picasso and Klee that the Nazis chose to label degenerate art. Films can be your best friend, your entertainer, sometimes even your comfort blanket. But we also need those directors who make a different kind of picture: who rattle the cage and break the mould and scatter stones in all our shoes.
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They may have spent their whole lives preparing for this moment, practicing their acceptance speeches in front of the mirror while clutching hairbrushes like statuettes, but for those who emerged victorious from the Academy Awards, the reality of actually being handed an Oscar clearly takes some getting used to. Backstage in the press room, we got a front-row seat as winners staggered through, looking like deer caught in headlights coming from every direction.

Even the first winner of the night, Kieran Culkin, who made his film debut aged seven in Home Alone, looked like he was levitating over the stage. Im not fully inside my body right now, he murmured through a wide grin. Im trying my best to be present. Despite his dazed look, Culkin characteristically still cracked jokes, making fun of the numbers journalists had to hold overhead to get the moderators attention: Number two-thousand eight hundred and sixty-four whats your question?

There werent quite that many of us, even if it seemed like it from the stage. I was one of around 175 journalists from 40 different countries and territories who made it through the barriers that cordon off a long stretch of Hollywood Boulevard and past the bomb-sniffing dogs to be the first to greet actors and filmmakers as they celebrate what may well be the high water mark of their professional lives. This is the pinnacle of my career, said Paul Tazewell, the first Black man to ever win the Oscar for Best Costume Design for his work on Wicked, before movingly describing his journey through an industry without role models. The whole way through, there was never a Black male designer that I could follow, that I could see as inspiration, he said. To realize that thats actually me, is a Wizard of Oz moment. Theres no place like home.

open image in gallery Selfie: Samuel L. Jackson and Selena Gomez were an unlikely pairing as they presented the documentary categories ( via REUTERS )

The mood in the room was generally jubilant, as you might expect, but there was also a smattering of awkward moments. When someone brought up the ailing Pope, currently in the hospital with double pneumonia, to Oscar-winning Conclave screenwriter Peter Straughan, whose film focuses on the election of a new Pope, the room fell silent and he quickly changed the subject. Its bad taste to bring his health into a celebratory atmosphere, said the British playwright. But we all wish him well.

There was also an unintentionally comic moment when one journalist starts praising the Palestinian-Israeli collective behind Best Documentary Feature winner No Other Land for their powerfully political speech, only for it to turn out that the people shes talking to are actually the men who did the Visual Effects for Dune: Part Two.

open image in gallery Like a Rolling Stone: Mick Jagger presented Camille with the Oscar for Best Original Song for El Mal from Emilia Perez ( via REUTERS )

One of the most riotous moments of the night backstage occurred when Flow won Best Animated Feature Film. Its the first Latvian film to even be nominated for an Academy Award, let alone to win one, so the Latvian contingent in the press room reacted by cheering and hugging each other. When director Gints Zilbalodis arrived, he told Latvian Public Radio, in both English and Latvian, that hed be celebrating tonight! Theres also a suitably carnivalesque outbreak of joy when Brazils Im Still Here wins Best International Film.

Those moments are about as close as we get to a party atmosphere. Theres no alcohol back here, so we have to listen on enviously when, during one commercial break, Best Actor nominee Colman Dolmingo comes onstage to urge those in the main audience to toast to Los Angeles with little bottles of tequila secreted under their seats. He then instigates a brief dance party and encourages the whole crowd to take selfies. In the press area, sans booze, were left to console ourselves with sandwiches, cookies and, for some reason, mountains and mountains of jumbo shrimp.

open image in gallery Zoe Saldana composed herself backstage after taking home the win for most emotional acceptance speech of the night ( The Academy via Getty Images )

The show, as usual, ran late. At the allotted end time of 7 p.m., there were still five awards left to be handed out, and they were five of the biggest: Best Original Score, Lead Actor, Best Director, Best Actress and Best Picture, not to mention a musical tribute to Quincy Jones. Energy backstage started to flag. Host Conan OBrien got a big, knowing laugh when he joked that if you were still enjoying the show, you have something called Stockholm syndrome. As the awards came thick and fast at the end of the night, things started to overlap. Lol Crawley was in the middle of discussing the finer details of The Brutalists cinematography when Mikey Madisons surprise win over Demi Moore in the Best Actress category was announced. Great performance, he said, craning his neck to see a screen as the room was momentarily distracted. When Daniel Blumberg, another winner for The Brutalist, this time for Best Original Score, arrived in the room, I asked him how it feels to go from recording cult favorite drummer Steve Noble in his kitchen to standing on the Oscar stage. Bizarre, he replied, another deer in the Hollywood headlights.

open image in gallery Kylie Jenner consoled her beau, Timothee Chalamet, after he failed to win Best Actor for his role as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown ( Getty Images )

It was almost 7:45 p.m. by the time Best Picture was announced, which by then was a formality. Having swept almost all of its categories (bar Cinematography), Anora was both a predictable and deserved winner of the nights biggest prize. Writer-director Sean Baker, who had already swept up the awards for Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing, thanked the Academy for supporting a genuinely independent film. Made for $6 million by a tiny crew of just 40 people, Anora is a true indie success story. Back in 2017, Barry Jenkins won Best Picture for Moonlight, which cost just $1.5 million to make. His most recent film was the $200 million Disney CGI musical Mufasa: The Lion King. Backstage, talk turned to whether Baker might be tempted down the same blockbuster road. Thats a question for another night, however. Tonight, finally, it was time to get a drink.
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Andrew Garfield assisted Goldie Hawn with the Oscars autocue after she said she had cataracts.

The Death Becomes Her actor, 79, presented two awards alongside British star Garfield early on in the 2025 ceremony, which was hosted by Conan OBrien.

However, midway through their appearance on stage, Hawn, who was delivering her pre-written dialogue, stopped and claimed she was unable to see what was on the screen. She then asked Garfield to step in to help her.

Find the full list of 2025 Oscar winners here

Garfield has since been praised for his assistance, with the moment branded beautiful by viewers.

Its believed Hawn was joking about having cataracts, which cause blurry vision among those people who have them, as she was able to read parts of the autocue at the start and end of her on-stage appearance.

But the moment followed an interaction that saw Garfield thank Hawn for bringing happiness to his mother, who died in 2019.

Goldie, can I tell you something really quickly? he asked, adding: "There is a person who gave my mother during her life the most joy and comfort  and tonight, I feel very lucky because I get to thank that person from the bottom of my heart. That person is Goldie Hawn.

open image in gallery Andrew Garfield and Goldie Hawn shared a touching moment at the 2025 Oscars ( Getty Images )

This years Oscars race was the closest in years, with the ceremony considered a three-horse race between Sean Bakers critical darling Anora, Brady Corbets sweeping epic The Brutalist and pope drama Conclave.

Ultimately, Anora became the evenings big winner, taking home five trophies in total, including Best Picture.

Actors in contention to become Oscar winners included Demi Moore (The Substance) and Timothee Chalamet (A Complete Unknown)  but both lost out on the night, with Mikey Madison taking home Best Actress and Adrien Brody winning his second Oscar for his role in The Brutalist.

The actor was criticised for his indulgent acceptance speech after appearing to throw his chewing gum at his girlfriend, Georgina Chapman.

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open image in gallery Adrien Brody won Best Actor for The Brutalist ( REUTERS )

This years ceremony was hosted by an incredibly silly Conan OBrien, who shocked with jokes about the Emilia Perez-Karla Sofia Gascon controversy and also Canadian rapper Drake, which drew gasps from the crowd.

Meanwhile, viewers hit out at a Bond tribute for being the ceremonys worst moment in years.
Childrearing related topics attract attention as annual 'two sessions' approach

11:17, March 03, 2025 By Du Qiongfang, Zhang Han ( Global Times

Nurses take care of newborn babies at a hospital in Zunyi, southwest China's Guizhou Province. (Photo/Xinhua)

As the "two sessions" approach, multiple Chinese lawmakers plan to submit proposals concerning fertility support policies, including promoting sexual and reproductive health education among adolescents, strengthening the protection of women's fertility, as well as a six-month paternity leave policy for new fathers and allowances for working mothers with young children.

According to China Youth Daily, among 2,007 interviewees, topics related to fertility, among other topics such as entrepreneurship and pension, have drawn public attention as the "two sessions" approach, with such topics trending on China's social media platforms.

Zhang Qi, a deputy at the National People's Congress (NPC), China's top legislature, and doctor at The First Hospital of Jiaxing, East China's Zhejiang Province, plans to submit a proposal to curb the decline of birth rates.

The trend of declining birth rates is partly due to declining fertility rates among women, which are mainly reflected in the persistently high infertility rate, Zhang told the Global Times on Sunday, noting that there are currently approximately 240 million people of childbearing age nationwide, with an infertility rate of around 15 percent, or about 36 million to 48 million people facing difficulty in conceiving children.

According to Zhang, the main factors contributing to infertility include insufficient sexual education among adolescents that leads to a high rate of induced abortions due to unprotected sex, fertility damage resulting from insufficient post-abortion care, delayed marriage and childbirth among modern women, and the increasing prevalence of malignant reproductive tract tumors among younger women.

Zhang suggested the promotion of sexual and reproductive health education among adolescents along with the performance evaluations of governments at all levels, while compiling teaching materials on sexual and reproductive health, as well as marital and relationship education to be taken as compulsory courses.

Zhang will also propose the enhancement of fertility assessment services for elder individuals who have never conceived children, identifying potential diseases that may affect fertility, and helping them achieve an optimal pre-pregnancy state through education and lifestyle management.

Additionally, Zhang will propose the implementation of fertility preservation measures for female cancer patients, including egg, embryo, and ovarian tissue freezing before undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy, as well as the strengthening of the early prevention of cervical cancer, with vaccination being included in the public health service.

Another NPC deputy, Zhang Qiang, who is an employee at Taixing power supply company under the State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power Co, suggested a comprehensive fertility supportive policy system covering aspects from childbirth and childcare to education and housing to cope with some people's hesitance in childbirth and childrearing due to economic burdens be established, by giving suggestions in reducing childbirth costs, balancing family responsibilities, and optimizing educational resources.

He also suggests including assisted reproductive technologies (such as embryo culture), non-invasive prenatal genetic testing, and labor analgesia in medical insurance coverage to reduce the financial burden on families, thereby alleviating the costs associated with childbirth.

He calls for the strict implementation of childcare leave and spouse paternity leave policies, with the "fatherhood leave" system being piloted in some regions, allowing men to apply for up to six months of paternity leave to promote the shared responsibility of childcare, as an effort to cope with the challenges of a continuously declining birth rate and an increasingly aging population that China's population development currently faces.

Besides, at the local "two sessions" in places including Shanghai, Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, East China's Jiangxi Province, other policymakers and political advisors, have also proposed suggestions regarding supportive policies to childbirth and childrearing such as improving financial subsidies for childbirth, improving employment support for women, developing childcare services, and improving the housing rental market, according to the 21st Century Business Herald.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
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The Los Angeles Fire Department stole the show at the 2025 Academy Awards, delivering several zingers to the top celebrities in the world.

On Sunday at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, the first responders took the stage alongside this years Oscars host Conan OBrien to deliver some jokes and be recognized for their work during the Palisades and Eaton fires.

Everyone in the audience has to laugh, OBrien warned before they delivered their lines. These are heroes!

The firefighters were then all given a standing ovation.

All of our hearts go out to those who have lost their homes... including the producers of JOKER 2, one of the firefighters began, reading from a teleprompter.

open image in gallery A group of Los Angeles firefighters delivered several jokes during the Oscars ceremony ( Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP )

Another firefighter went after Timothee Chalamet for his role as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown and said the actor had to learn how to sing for the role. In fact, his singing was so good, he almost lost the part, the firefighter said.

The wildfires in Los Angeles had an impact on awards season. The Oscar nominees announcement was postponed, as were other events such as the Critics Choice Awards, plus major film premieres such as Robbie Williams biopic Better Man, and Unstoppable, starring Jennifer Lopez.

The wildfires that consumed large parts of Los Angeles in early January led some to call for the cancellation of the Academy Awards. The Academy twice postponed the announcement of nominations but never pushed the March 2 date of the ceremony. Academy leaders argued that the show must go ahead for economic reasons and as a symbol of resilience.

open image in gallery The firefighters were honored for their bravery during the Hollywood ceremony ( REUTERS )

For many involved in the Oscars, the fires have been felt acutely. O'Brien's Pacific Palisades home survived, but his family has been unable to go back to it. O'Brien's assistant and podcast co-host, Sona Movsesian, lost her home.

In addition to the first responders appearance, the host also stunned the audience with an unexpected joke about the Kendrick Lamar and Drake Super Bowl beef.

Were halfway through the show, which means its time for Kendrick Lamar to come out and call Drake a pedophile in a diss track Not Like Us.

The joke made quite an impression on the crowd, who could be heard gasping in shock. He then suggested he wasnt scared about making the joke as he had lawyered up.
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Kieran Culkin left his wife aghast when he asked her for another child during his Oscars acceptance speech.

The Succession star, 42, who won the award for his role in Jesse Eisenbergs drama A Real Pain, used his speech to address his wife, the British advertising specialist Jazz Charton, and ask for two more children.

The actor recalled the aftermath of the Emmys last year, when he joked on stage that Charton had promised him a third child if he won the award.

Culkin then informed the audience that he wanted to tell a story  and asked the backstage crew not to cut him off  revealing that his wife had promised him an additional child if he won an Oscar.

After the show, were walking through a parking lot  and she goes, Oh, God, I did say that! Culkin said. I guess I owe you a third kid. And I turned to her, and I said, Really, I want four. And she turned to me  I swear to God, this happened theres just over a year ago  she said, I will give you four when you win an Oscar.

No pressure, he added, looking at his wife in the crowd, but lets get cracking on those kids, what doya say?

Charton gasped in a mixture of joy and shock, but laughed and nodded along at various points of the story he told.

The pair, who met in a bar in New York in 2012, share two children, Kinsey Sioux and Wilder Wolfe.

open image in gallery Kieran Culkins wife Jazz Charton gasped when the actor asked for another child onstage ( ABC )

During his Emmys speech last year, Culkin said to his wife: Thank you for sharing your life with me and giving me two amazing kids... I want more. You said maybe, if I win! I love you so much.

In response, Charton could be seen covering her face with her hands in a mixture of joy and shock.

At the Oscars, Culkin beat out fellow nominees Guy Pearce (The Brutalist), Yuriy Borisov (Anora), Edward Norton (A Complete Unknown) and Culkins Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who was nominated for playing Roy Cohn in the Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice.

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open image in gallery Jazz Charton and Kieran Culkin at the 2025 Oscars ( Getty Images )

After being presented the award by Robert Downey Jr, Culkin remarked: Oh my God thats crazy. I dont even know, thanks for handing this to me. This means a lot coming from you.

Hes right, by the way, Jeremy, youre amazing in The Apprentice. I love your work, its f***ing  Im not supposed to single anyone out here, but you were great, and Ive already lost whatever speech I prepared.

The biggest winner on the night was Anora, a film about a New York stripper (Mikey Madison) who embarks on a whirlwind romance with a client, which swept up awards across five categories, including Best Actress for Madison and a record-breaking four prizes for its director Sean Baker.

You can find the complete list of winners here.
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Kieran Culkin shocked the audience at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles with a swear-laden speech while accepting the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

The Succession star, 42, won the award for his role in Jesse Eisenbergs drama A Real Pain, which follows two American cousins who embark on a tour of Auschwitz.

He beat out fellow nominees Guy Pearce (The Brutalist), Yuriy Borisov (Anora), Edward Norton (A Complete Unknown) and Culkins Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who was nominated for playing Roy Cohn in the Donald Trump biopic The Apprentice.

After being presented the award by Robert Downey Jr, Culkin remarked: Oh my God thats crazy. I dont even know, thanks for handing this to me. This means a lot coming from you.

He's right, by the way, Jeremy, you're amazing in The Apprentice. I love your work, it's f***ing  I'm not supposed to single anyone out here, but you were great, and I've already lost whatever speech I prepared.

The swearing, which included another expletive when Culkin realised his error, was bleeped out on the ceremonys US broadcast, but made it to ITVs live coverage uncensored.

In his speech, Culkin also paid tribute to his wife, British advertising specialist Jazz Charton.

Culkin accepting the award for Best Actor ( Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP )

He recalled the aftermath of the Emmys last year, when he joked on stage that Charton had promised him another child if he won the award.

After the show, were walking through a parking lot  and she goes, Oh, God, I did say that!' Culkin said. I guess I owe you a third kid. And I turned to her, and I said, Really, I want four. And she turned to me  I swear to God, this happened theres just over a year ago  she said, I will give you four when you win an Oscar.'

No pressure, he added, looking at his wife in the crowd, but lets get cracking on those kids.

Culkin had been the favourite to win Best Supporting Actor at the Oscars, having dominated the category in most of the other competitions this awards season.

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The Oscars 2025 winners have been announced in Hollywood.

This years Oscars race was the closest in years, with the ceremony considered a three-horse race between Sean Bakers critical darling Anora, Brady Corbets sweeping epic The Brutalist and pope drama Conclave.

Ultimately, Anora became the evenings big winner, taking home five trophies in total, including Best Picture.

Actors in contention to become first-time winners included Demi Moore (The Substance) and Timothee Chalamet (A Complete Unknown)  but both lost out on the night, with Mikey Madison taking home Best Actress and Adrien Brody winning his second Oscar for his role in The Brutalist.

Find all the Oscar winners below:

Best Picture

Anora - WINNER

The Brutalist

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Dune: Part 2

Emilia Perez

Im Still Here

Nickel Boys

The Substance

Wicked

open image in gallery Anora won Best Picture at the 2025 Oscars ( AP )

Best Director

Sean Baker  Anora WINNER

Brady Corbet  The Brutalist

James Mangold  A Complete Unknown

Jacques Audiard  Emilia Perez

Coralie Fargeat  The Substance

open image in gallery Sean Baker wins Best Director for Anora

Best Actress in a Leading Role

Cynthia Erivo  Wicked

Karla Sofia Gascon  Emilia Perez

Mikey Madison  Anora WINNER

Demi Moore - The Substance

Fernanda Torres  Im Still Here

open image in gallery Mikey Madison wins Best Actress at the 2025 Oscars ( Getty Images )

Best Actor in a Leading Role

Adrien Brody  The Brutalist WINNER

Timothee Chalamet  A Complete Unknown

Colman Domingo  Sing Sing

Ralph Fiennes  Conclave

Sebastian Stan  The Apprentice

Best Actress in a Supporting Role

Monica Barbaro  A Complete Unknown

Ariana Grande  Wicked

Felicity Jones - The Brutalist

Isabella Rossellini  Conclave

Zoe Saldana  Emilia Perez WINNER

open image in gallery Zoe Saldana accepts the award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for Emilia Perez ( AFP via Getty Images )

Best Actor in a Supporting Role

Yura Borisov  Anora

Kieran Culkin  A Real Pain WINNER

Edward Norton  A Complete Unknown

Guy Pearce  The Brutalist

Jeremy Strong  The Apprentice

open image in gallery Kieran Culkin won Best Supporting Actor for A Real Pain ( AP )

Best Writing (Original Screenplay)

Anora WINNER

The Brutalist

A Real Pain

September 5

The Substance

Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay)

A Complete Unknown

Conclave WINNER

Emilia Perez

Nickel Boys

Sing Sing

open image in gallery Peter Straughan won Best Adapted Screenplay for Conclave ( Getty Images )

Best International Feature Film

Im Still Here WINNER

The Girl with the Needle

Emilia Perez

The Seed of the Sacred Fig

Flow

Best Animated Feature Film

Flow WINNER

Inside Out 2

Memoir of a Snail

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

The Wild Robot

Best Documentary Feature

Black Box Diaries

No Other Land WINNER

Porcelain War

Soundtrack to a Coup dEtat

Sugarcane

Best Film Editing

Anora WINNER

The Brutalist

Conclave

Emilia Perez

Wicked

Best Cinematography

The Brutalist WINNER

Dune: Part 2

Emilia Perez

Maria

Nosferatu

open image in gallery The Brutalist won Best Cinematography ( A24 )

Best Music (Original Score)

The Brutalist WINNER

Conclave

Emilia Perez

Wicked

The Wild Robot

Best Music (Original Song)

El Mal  Emilia Perez WINNER

The Journey  The Six Triple Eight

Like a Bird  Sing Sing

Mi Camino  Emilia Perez

Never Too Late  Elton John: Never Too Late

Best Sound

A Complete Unknown

Dune: Part 2 WINNER

Emilia Perez

Wicked

The Wild Robot

Best Visual Effects

Alien: Romulus

Better Man

Dune: Part 2 WINNER

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Wicked

Best Production Design

The Brutalist

Conclave

Dune: Part 2

Nosferatu

Wicked WINNER

open image in gallery Wicked took home Best Production Design (  Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved. )

Best Costume Design

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Gladiator II

Nosferatu

Wicked WINNER

Best Makeup and Hairstyling

A Different Man

Emilia Perez

Nosferatu

The Substance WINNER

Wicked

Best Animated Short Film

Beautiful Men

In the Shadow of the Cypress WINNER

Magic Candies

Wander to Wonder

Yuck!

Best Live Action Short Film

A Lien

Anuja

Im Not a Robot WINNER

The Last Ranger

The Man Who Would Not Remain Silent

Documentary Short Film

Death by Numbers

I Am Ready, Warden

Incident

Instruments of a Beating Heart

The Only Girl in the Orchestra WINNER

The Oscars are airing in the US on ABC. In the UK, viewers can follow the 96th Academy Awards live on ITV, from around 11pm, on Sunday 2 March.
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The Oscar-nominated short film The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent has been struck by tragedy on the eve of the Academy Awards.

Darko Buzov, the son of the Croatian man whose heroic true story inspired the film, and who was himself an important force behind the films creation, died suddenly of a heart attack aged 52 on Saturday (1 March).

He was the son of Tomo Buzov, a man who stood up for Bosnian Muslims during the civil war in what was then Yugoslavia. He had been riding a train through eastern Bosnia on 27 February 1993, when members of a pro-Serbian militia boarded began pulling Bosnian Muslims from the train to execute them.

When the militia members reached Tomos compartment, he stood up instead, and refused to back down. Eighteen Bosnian Muslim men were executed on the day, alongside Tomo.

His sons death came on the 32nd anniversary of his fathers actions.

The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent re-tells the story of the incident, with Tomo played by actor Dragan Micanovic. The other passengers are fictionalised creations, based on actual court transcripts.

I read more than a thousand pages of different documents of interviews with people who were on that train, writer-director Nebojsa Slijepcevic said. I read testimonies from the trial  because one of the killers from the train was caught back in Nineties and he was put on trial. So, there were firsthand testimonies by many people who lost their relatives or were just passengers on the train.

'The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent' is in contention for an Oscar on Sunday ( Antitalent )

The script is fictionalised in a way; the Tomo Buzov character is real, but the other characters are not real but are inspired by real experiences of the people from the train. And most of the lines that are spoken in the film I have found in these transcripts.

In an interview with Deadline, Slijepcevic credited Buzovs approval with the films existence.

I wrote him that we want to make a film where an actor will play the role of his father, he said. He was very generous He offered his help, and it was very important for me. Without his permission, Im 100 per cent sure that we would not make this film.

You can keep up to date with the latest Oscars developments here.
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The winners of Best Documentary Feature Film at the Oscars used their acceptance speech to highlight the need for peace in the Middle East and called for the liberation of Palestine, as well as the safety of Israel.

Basel Adra, a Palestinian activist, and Yuval Abraham, an Israeli investigative journalist, won the Oscar for their film No Other Land, a movie that shows the destruction of the occupied West Bank's Masafer Yatta by Israeli soldiers and explores the alliance that develops between the two men.

The documentary was filmed over four years between 2019 and 2023, wrapping production days before Hamas launched its deadly October 7, 2023, attack on Israel that started the war in Gaza.

Adra told crowds of A-listers, which included actress and former IDF soldier Gal Gadot, that he had recently become a father, and hoped his young daughter would not have to live in fear, as he had under Israeli occupation.

open image in gallery Basel Adra (center), a Palestinian activist, and Yuval Abraham (right), an Israeli investigative journalist, won the best documentary film Oscar for their film No Other Land

We call on the world to stop the serious injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people, Adra said to cheers and rapturous applause.

Abraham called Adra his brother but said in order for Israelis to be truly safe, then Palestinians must be truly free. We made this film  Palestinians and Israelis  because together our voices are stronger, Abraham said.

We see each other, the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people which must end, Israeli hostages brutally taken in the crime of October 7 which must be freed.

open image in gallery The pair used their acceptance speech to highlight the need for peace in the Middle East and called for the liberation of Palestine, as well as the safety of Israel

open image in gallery The pro-Palestine speech was delivered to the room of A-listers, which included actress and former IDF soldier Gal Gadot ( REUTERS )

He continued: When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law and Basel is under military law that destroy his life and he cannot control.

The speech comes after Israel cut off the entry of all food and other goods into Gaza, in an echo of the siege it imposed in the earliest days of its war with Hamas. The United Nations and other humanitarian aid providers have sharply criticized the decision, calling it a violation of international law.

Abraham added: There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy with national rights for both our people. I have to say, the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path. Why?

Cant you see that we are intertwined. That my people can be truly safe, if Basels people are truly free and safe. There is another way. Its not too late for life, for the living  there is no other way.
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First-time Oscar nominee Sean Baker has made history with his haul at the 2025 Academy Awards.

The American director, 54, had never before been nominated for an Oscar prior to Sunday nights (2 March) ceremony, hosted by Conan OBrien.

Baker left the Los Angeles awards show, however, with a history-making four statuettes for his sex worker comedy-drama Anora.

The film was undeniably the big winner of the night, taking home prizes for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Original Screenplay  and Best Actress, the last of which was awarded to Mikey Madison.

Find the full list of Oscars winners, including Adrien Brody and Kieran Culkin, here.

In one of the major surprises of the evening, Anoras 25-year-old star Madison triumphed over Demi Moore who had been the favourite to win in the Best Actress category for her role in Coralie Fargeats The Substance.

Baker is the first person ever to win four Oscars in one night for the same movie. It is an especially surprising feat given that Baker had never before been nominated for an Academy Award despite the critical acclaim surrounding his previous films including The Florida Project (2017) and Tangerine (2015).

Previously in 1954, as reported by The LA Times, Walt Disney won four awards in one night  but for four different films, including the documentary The Living Desert and three shorts.

open image in gallery PREMIOS OSCAR-DIRECCION ( AP )

Some eagle-eyed Oscars fans may point out that director Bong Joon Ho was photographed holding four statuettes at the 2020 Oscars for his thriller Parasite. Technically, however, only three of them were his.

Parasite won Best Picture, Best Director, Original Screenplay and International Feature. That last award, however, is awarded to the films country of origin  in this case South Korea  as opposed to the filmmaker themselves.

Emilia Perez director Jacques Audiard had also been in contention for this historic accomplishment, given that he was also nominated for Directing, Adapted Screenplay, Original Song, and Best Picture.

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open image in gallery ( AFP via Getty Images )

The Spanish-language film had entered the Academy Awards with a record-breaking 13 nominations  three more than any previous foreign-language film.

It left with only two wins, including Best Supporting Actress for Zoe Saldana and Best Original Song for El Mal, co-written by Clement Ducol, Camille, and Audiard.

Its Oscars campaign trail was likely impacted by the controversy surrounding its lead star Karla Sofia Gascon, who was in attendance after sitting out most of awards season due to her racist tweet controversy.

Taking to the stage for the third time to accept Best Director, Baker took the opportunity to voice his support for theatrical moviegoing.

open image in gallery ( Getty Images )

We are all here tonight because we love movies. Where did we fall in love with movies? At the movie theatre, said Baker.

In a time in which our world can feel very divided, this is more important than ever: Its a communal experience you simply dont get at home.

Baker was presented his award by director and two-time Oscar winner Quentin Tarantino, another well-known advocate of cinema-going and the owner of two independent theatres in Los Angeles: the New Beverly and the Vista.

open image in gallery ( AFP via Getty )

It was a deserved win for Sean Bakers sad and sexy glitter bomb of a film, writes The Independents Annabel Nugent.

At the centre of it all is Mikey Madison. After small but memorable parts as an acid-soaked Charles Manson acolyte in Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood and an unassuming Ghostface in the Scream franchise, Anora arrived at an opportune moment for the actor, a star-making role if ever there was one. And as the hard-talking, fast-speaking Ani, Madison goes for broke.

Catch up with all the action from Oscars night here.
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Shiori Itos Black Box Diaries may have lost to No Other Land at the Oscars, but both the filmmaker and her film have long been making waves in Japan.

Black Box Diaries, nominated for best documentary feature at the 97th Academy Awards, follows Ito's investigation into the sexual violence she suffered herself.

The story begins in 2015 when she meets the Washington DC bureau chief of the Tokyo Broadcasting System, Noriyuki Yamaguchi, to discuss a potential job. She is 25 at the time and an intern at Thomson Reuters.

In the film, Ito remembers meeting Yamaguchi for dinner, losing consciousness during the meal and waking up to Yamaguchi allegedly raping her in his hotel.

Ito says she reported the alleged crime, but police sought to discourage her from filing a report, even making her go through a harrowing recreation of the assault.

I had to lay down on the floor, there were three or four male investigators with cameras, and they placed this lifelike doll on me and moved it and took photos, she says.

An arrest warrant was issued in Itos case but Yamaguchi, who was allegedly close to then prime minister Shinzo Abe and had written a biography of him, was never arrested and the criminal case was quickly dropped with no explanation.

Ito went public with her allegation in May 2017, but faced backlash in a country where talking about sexual violence is still a taboo. Ito received the kind of criticism that nearly all sexual assault survivors face, including questions about what she was wearing.

She was accused of wearing an outfit that was too revealing because she had left a button undone on a blue, collared blouse that she wore to the meeting instead of the traditional black suit one usually wore to interviews.

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In 2019, Ito won a civil trial in Tokyo where judges ruled that Yamaguchi had sexual intercourse without consent with Ms Ito, who was in a state of intoxication and unconscious. Ito won damages worth 3.3m (17,387) and immediately became the face of the #MeToo movement in Japan.

Yamaguchi, then 53, denied the accusations and filed a countersuit, claiming the incident was consensual and that Itos accusations had ruined his reputation. His suit, seeking 130m (685,360) in damages, was dismissed.

open image in gallery Ito won a civil trial against Yamaguchi in Tokyo in 2019 ( AFP via Getty )

open image in gallery Yamaguchi denied Itos allegations and filed a countersuit claiming the incident was consensual ( AFP via Getty )

Honestly, I still dont know how I feel. However, winning this case doesnt mean this didnt happen, Ito told reporters outside the court in 2019. This is not the end.

Ito wrote a memoir about her experience, Black Box, which formed the basis for her directorial debut.

It took me four years because emotionally I was struggling, she told the BBC about making the film.

open image in gallery Shiori Ito wrote a memoir about her experience, Black Box, which formed the basis for her directorial debut ( MTV Documentary Films/Dogwoof )

Black Box Diaries premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival and went on to be screened at over 50 film festivals, winning multiple awards along the way and garnering a best documentary nomination at the Oscars, a first in that category by a Japanese director.

In her native country, where a 2017 government survey reported nearly one in 13 (7.8 per cent) women saying they had been raped, Itos film might never find an audience.

We have been struggling to bring the film to Japan, and we hoped the nomination can get us through, Ito told Deadline earlier in February.

Ito has drawn condemnation from her former lawyers for using what they call unauthorised footage. Ito, however, claims that using it was essential to tell the story of how her case was covered up, even while apologising to those whose consent for the use of footage was overlooked.

Her lawyers have said using security footage from the hotel where the incident took place as well as images and audio recordings from a taxi driver and investigators in the case were all meant to be used in court alone and violated the privacy of the people concerned.

Ito responded that she would re-edit the film to ensure appropriate processing to prevent individuals from being identified in the aforementioned footage and audio.

The presence of this footage has become a sticking point in getting her film released in the country, though conservative attitudes towards sex and sexual violence have a role to play.

The contentious hotel footage from the night in question, which Ito has said was incredibly hard for her to obtain, allegedly shows Yamaguchi pulling out an inebriated and visibly struggling Ito from a taxi and helping her into the hotel.

People in general and theatres in this case are more risk averse in Japan than, for example, the States. And they feel more vulnerable to legal claims and trouble, Black Box Diaries producer Eric Nyari says.

Ito simply maintains: Distributors, they know its no legal issue, so theyre more scared about the public voice.

open image in gallery Japanese producer Eric Nyari, Japanese journalist and filmmaker Shiori Ito and Swedish filmmaker Hanna Aqvilin attend the 97th Annual Academy Awards ( AFP via Getty )

Black Box Diaries may never be screened in Japan, but Itos case has already led to changes within the country.

In 2023, Japan passed landmark laws that raised the age of sexual consent from 13 to 16 and redefined the definition of rape from forcible sexual intercourse to nonconsensual sexual intercourse and extended protection to victims under the influence of alcohol or drugs or those coerced by an individual in a position of authority.

Ito describes the film as her love letter to Japan and hopes that it has some impact.

I want to encourage other survivors to tell their story in their own language, because its very empowering, she told the Global Investigative Journalism Network. Own your story and be the one to tell your own story.
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The Graham Norton Show viewers are saying the same thing after the host was replaced by Claudia Winkleman

The Irish host is taking an extended break from his BBC chat show while he performs An Evening With Graham Norton in Australia and, on Friday (28 February), the Traitors host stepped into his shoes.

At the start of the show, Winkleman apologised for Nortons absence, telling viewers: To be honest, nobody is more livid than me.

She then proceeded to sit in Nortons seats while interviewing guests including Chris Pratt, Toby Jones, Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Rob Beckett and musical guest Rachel Chinouriri.

Viewers were left very impressed with Winklemans efforts, with one calling her marvellous and claiming: Graham could be out of a job soon.

One viewer asked: Can we get Claudia Winkleman hosting Graham Norton next week as well? with another chiming in: Eh why doesnt Ms Claudia Winkleman have her own talk show in the first place may I ask?

An additional fan agreed that Winkleman should have her own chat show, stating: Shes definitely holding her own here while Graham is away.

One person thought the Strictly Come Dancing co-host was superb, but said they were distracted by her fringe covering her eyes.

Doesnt she realise how disconcerting it is when you cant see the presenters eyes? they asked.

Graham Norton Show host replacement Claudia Winkleman ( BBC )

This was the secon time Norton has been replaced on his own chat show, with Jack Whitehall sitting in the presenters chair in 2019 when the host was unable to fulfil his duties.

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Her appearance on The Graham Norton Show arrives after Winkleman opened up about her suffering from myopia, which means she cant read anymore without glasses.

Winkleman previously revealed she has had so many operations on her eyes, including lens replacement in her left eye due to her astigmatism being so bad.

She said that after trying to fix being so short sighted, she is now long sighted.

Winkleman previously replaced Norton in another stint when he quit BBC Radio 2 after more than 10 years of presenting the Saturday morning show in 2021.
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A woman in China is reportedly facing a lawsuit for making her boyfriend undergo three hours of childbirth simulation that led to physical harm.

The man in Henan province had to be hospitalised and have part of his small intestine removed after undergoing the painful simulation, China Times reported.

The man had agreed to undergo the pain simulation test after his girlfriend and her mother insisted that he should experience a woman's challenges before their engagement.

The man initially rejected the proposal but later reluctantly agreed to go to a medical centre where he was hooked up to electrodes that gave out electric currents to mimic the sensation of contractions, reports said. Several hospitals in China have been offering childbirth pain simulation experience for over a decade.

In a post on Chinese social media app Xiaohongshu or Red Note, the unidentified woman said the first 90 minutes involved manually increasing the level of pain, while for the rest of the session, the intensity of pain remained at the maximum level.

"My boyfriend started screaming and struggling at level 8, swearing and crying at level 10, and by the end, he was gasping for air. My sister and I kept wiping his sweat," the woman wrote, according to South China Morning Post.

The man suffered from abdominal pain and started vomiting shortly after returning home. A week later, it was discovered that the simulation damaged a part of his small intestine, forcing him to undergo surgery.

The woman claimed she explained to her boyfriend that her family wanted him to understand the hardships of women and had no intention of hurting him. "I am willing to take full responsibility as long as he recovers," she wrote.

Following the incident, the man's mother cancelled the wedding and started legal action against the woman.

A lawyer reportedly said that if the injury assessment links the damage to the mans body to the simulation, the woman could be financially liable as per Chinese law.

Her post on Red Note caused an uproar, with many criticising the woman and her family for forcing the man to undergo "absurd" three hours of pain simulation. "They should bear the consequences for doing such a reckless thing," wrote one user. "They are making trouble for no reason," said another person on social media.
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A womans body was discovered stuffed in a suitcase near a bus stand in the northern Indian state of Haryana, prompting shock and outrage.

Police arrested a man on suspicion of murder two days after the body of Himani Narwal, 23, was found on the Rohtak-Delhi highway on 1 March.

We have arrested one accused and further investigations are on," a police official said.

The accused belonged to a village in Jhajjar district and was known to the deceased, Hindustan Times quoting a senior police official as saying, referring to a region in Haryana.

We will produce the man before the court and seek his remand to ascertain the reasons behind the gruesome murder. Prima facie it seems that some grudge took place between the accused and Himani.

The suspect, identified only as Sachin, was detained in neighbouring Delhi and allegedly confessed to the crime, India Today reported.

The accused, married with two children, had been in contact with Narwal for more than a year, senior police officer Krishna Kumar Rao said at a press conference on Monday.

He allegedly visited the womans home in Rohtak on 27 February and stayed overnight.

The next day, they got into a heated argument during which he tied her up with a piece of cloth and strangled her to death with a mobile phone charging cable, Mr Rao said.

Sachin removed Narwal's jewellery and stuffed her body inside a suitcase he found in the house. Later that night, he took an autorickshaw to the Rohtak bus stand and boarded a bus to Sampla, where he disposed of the body, the police officer added.

According to India Today, the man was in a relationship with Narwal and accused her of blackmailing him. He was carrying Narwals cell phone when he was detained.

Rajneesh Kumar, a deputy superintendent of police leading the investigation, said the suitcase belonged to the victims family. We are investigating all angles. We have found certain clues but cannot reveal them at this stage. We are also taking help from cyber and forensic experts, and examining CCTV camera footage, Mr Kumar was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

Scratches and bite marks found on Sachins hands indicated that Narwal fought back, the Indian news agency ANI reported. Investigators were also checking whether he had pawned the jewellery as a receipt indicating such a transaction was found on him.

Narwal, a law student, had actively participated in opposition leader Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo campaign and was widely recognised as a Congress party worker.

She was last seen on 27 February.

Her family, who live in Rohtaks Vijay Nagar, refused to perform her last rites until the perpetrators were brought to justice. Her mother, Savita Rani, alleged foul play saying Narwals rapid rise in the Congress party could have made her enemies.

"It could be someone in the party who was jealous of her or someone else entirely," Ms Rani claimed.

Former Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda, from the Congress party, demanded a fair investigation. "A culprit is a culprit, whether he is in the party or outside it. The law must take its course," Mr Hooda said.

Senior Haryana minister Anil Vij of the Bharatiya Janata Party described Ms Ranis allegations about internal political rivalry as "serious" and assured that police were thoroughly investigating all possible motives.

Congress party lawmaker Deepender Hooda called for stringent action against the perpetrator. "We demand exemplary punishment for whoever is guilty in this case," he said.

The autopsy was conducted at the Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences in Rohtak, but the report was still to come.
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Eight workers trapped inside a collapsed tunnel in the southern Indian state of Telangana since 22 February remained out of contact despite multiple agencies working to rescue them.

They were trapped when a tunnel section of the under-construction Srisailam Left Bank Canal in Nagarkurnool area collapsed.

There were 50 workers inside the tunnel when it collapsed but 42 escaped. The fate of the rest was still unknown 10 days later.

Telangana chief minister Revanth Reddy said on Sunday that the exact location of the workers remained unknown. He said the over five-metre-deep layer of mud inside the tunnel had made it difficult for rescue teams to determine their precise whereabouts.

Twelve agencies were reported to be involved in the rescue operation and specialists from both state and central governments were assisting them.

Attempts to clear away silt from where the trapped engineers and labourers had been detected earlier inside the collapsed tunnel were intensifying as additional personnel and equipment was being deployed, The New Indian Express reported.

An unnamed official told the paper on Sunday that a conveyor belt damaged by the collapse was expected to be repaired by Monday. Once operational, it would facilitate the removal of debris and sludge from the tunnel.

The number of personnel and equipment at the identified locations is being increased, he said, adding that the process of silt removal and dewatering was ongoing.

It was reported over the weekend that scientists from the National Geophysical Research Institute had used ground penetrating radar to detect the positions of four of the eight trapped workers, and that they were expected to be rescued by the evening of 2 March. But the chief minister clarified on Sunday that their exact locations remained uncertain.

The collapse of the worlds longest irrigation tunnel was triggered by a sudden inflow of water and soil, causing a section to cave in.

An unidentified expert quoted by The Indian Express said that there was seepage of water from the hillocks above into the tunnel, which caused the mud to loosen and caused a mudslide. They pointed out that mudslides were not common in tunnel construction. In this case, however, the tunnel was being dug at a place that was prone to mudslides, and the drilling triggered it.

Mr Reddy visited the site of the accident on Sunday and said the rescue was progressing but remained a complex operation. It could take another two to three days to locate the workers, he added.

They are not able to come to a full understanding on where the humans and the machinery got stuck. They have a preliminary estimation, but not fully, he said, referring to the rescuers.

The Hindu reported that the leaders of key rescue agencies had informed Mr Reddy that clearing debris from the final 20 metres of the tunnel was the most difficult and challenging part of the rescue operation.

As the left flank and roof of this section was still unstable, with heavy water seepage ongoing, rescuers were considering alternative tunnel routes from 13.45km inside to connect with a more stable section of the original path.

Actually, the operation is going on in full swing. Approximately twelve agencies are working around the clock to find the victims, VVN Prasanna Kumar, National Disaster Response Force commandant, was quoted as saying by ANI news agency on Monday. Unfortunately, we have not been able to locate them so far.

State lawmaker Payal Shankar assured that prime minister Narendra Modi was monitoring the situation and had provided all necessary assistance.

PM Modi is in continuous contact with the state government and has sent all the help required, she said. The rescue operation is underway. We hope that the eight people trapped inside come out safely.

The trapped workers were earlier identified as Manoj Kumar and Sri Niwas from Uttar Pradesh, Sunny Singh from Jammu and Kashmir, Gurpreet Singh from Punjab, and Sandeep Sahu, Jegta Xess, Santosh Sahu and Anuj Sahu from Jharkhand.

Accidents related to large infrastructure projects are not uncommon in India.

In 2023, a 17-day rescue operation saved 41 workers trapped in a partially collapsed Himalayan road tunnel in the northern state of Uttarakhand.
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An Indian podcaster charged with obscenity has been allowed to resume airing his shows on the condition they meet standards of "morality and decency".

Popular fitness influencer and podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia, known by his moniker BeerBiceps, was accused of obscenity after he asked a contestant in a YouTube show about watching his parents having sex, drawing multiple police complaints from around the country.

Worried about having to defend himself in courts around the country Allahbadia asked the Supreme Court to consolidate the cases. The two-judge Supreme Court bench was, on Monday, hearing Allahbadia's request.

"Subject to the petitioner furnishing an undertaking... that his own podcast shows will maintain the standards of decency and morality, so that viewers of any age group can watch, the petitioner is permitted to resume 'The Ranveer Show'," the court said.

The 31-year-old, who has nearly 20 million subscribers on two YouTube channels, has hosted Bollywood stars, businessmen and ministers on the widely watched podcast.

Supreme Court Judge Surya Kant also said that the show was being permitted to resume "since livelihood of 280 employees" depended on its telecast.

The court, however, barred Allahbadia from airing any shows that could have a "bearing" on merits of the case.

Allahbadia's lawyer did not immediately respond to a Reuters' request for a comment on Monday's order, which came nearly a fortnight after the court asked him to stop airing shows.

open image in gallery Ranveer Allahbadia ( Instagram/Ranveer Allahbadia )

The podcaster last year shared the stage with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a social media stars' event.

"India's Got Latent", the show on which Allahbadia made the comments, involves a team of comedians judging newcomers' stand-up comedy.

India does not censor online platforms such as Google-owned YouTube but remains a largely conservative society in which many espouse family and religious values, prompting complaints about shows seen as transgressing decency norms.
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Taliban officials have arrested an Afghan educator who has been campaigning for the education rights of girls in the country, his family members have confirmed.

Wazir Khan, 25, was arrested from his residence in the Kabul area on 24 February, his family has said. The arrest was carried out by four of the Talibans local officials who took him to their intelligence facility General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI).

He was picked up from his house in Butkhak in Kabul, taken out by the Taliban officials who tied his hands and blindfolded his eyes, his brother Amir Khan Zaland told The Independent.

We have no idea where he is right now and how he is. It has been more than seven days since he was picked up, he said.

Wazir Khan worked for human rights, was an activist for children's education, why was he arrested? What sin did he commit? Instead of being praised, he is being imprisoned in Afghanistan, his brother told The Independent.

As of Monday, more than a week after his arrest, we have no idea about Mr Khans whereabouts and his safety. It is believed he is in the Talibans detention facility, said Samantha Leaning, a human rights advocate working closely with Mr Khan for nearly two years.

open image in gallery The 25-year-old Afghan man was campaigning in several rural areas inside the Taliban-run country, pushing for education for all ( Family handouts/ The Independent )

Mr Khan was running Today Child, a non-profit organisation for raising awareness of education for girls since 2022, which he said was his tool for supporting education in the rural areas of Afghanistan and wiping out illiteracy in the country.

The Taliban has a red line with activism on girls education inside Afghanistan but Mr Khan was campaigning for both  girls and boys education  and that too for the age under 12 years, which the Taliban allows under its Sharia law, Ms Leaning told The Independent, stating that he was worried about his security, in a likely sign he was already under threat from the Taliban.

She added that the young Afghan educator has been using the let Afghan girls learn hashtag in his social media which probably tipped it with the Taliban.

open image in gallery Khan was arrested by the Taliban officials in February ( Family handouts/ The Independent )

Several social media photos and videos of Mr Khan show him reaching the hinterlands of Afghanistan where he campaigned among the rural elders and tribal leaders to continue educating their children.

open image in gallery Khan has actively campaigned for education of Afghan girls ( Family handouts/ The Independent )

Mr Khan is also seen distributing storybooks and notebooks and narrating stories to groups of Afghan children during his regular outreach activities.

The Taliban have not released any official statement confirming the arrest of Mr Khan.

However, this is not the first such arrest of Afghan educators campaigning inside the hardline Islamist regime for education of girls and women.

The Taliban has banned the education of girls and women above sixth grade for more than three years now inside the country, leading to a widespread shutdown of education for millions of girls and women.

In March 2023, the Taliban arrested a prominent Afghan educator Matiullah Wesa from Kabul after he spent months travelling to remote parts of the country with his mobile library.

He was severely assaulted and tortured in his prison detention at the GDI facility and was released only after 215 days in prison.

Mr Wesa was seen as outspoken in his demands for girls to have the right to go to school and repeatedly called on the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan to reverse its bans on female education.

After his release from the detention, Mr Wesa has maintained a low profile in public and abstained from actively campaigning for Afghan girls right to education.
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The Taliban dismissed Donald Trump's claim of Chinese presence at one of the former American military bases in Afghanistan.

The US president claimed Washington was planning to return to the Bagram Air Base, a large airfield in the Parwan province of the embattled nation due to the alleged presence of Chinese troops.

He suggested the US should move to reclaim disused and demilitarised military equipment that was not brought home with departing troops during the withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021.

Im the one who got our military presence to under 5,000 but we were going to keep Bagram, Mr Trump said, not because of Afghanistan but because of China, because the air base is exactly one hour from where China makes its nuclear missiles. So, we were going to keep Bagram.

Bagram airbase is one of the biggest airbases in the world. It has one of the biggest and most powerful runways. And we gave it up, Mr Trump said, and you know who is occupying it at the moment? China. Because Biden gave it up. So, we are going to keep that.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid dismissed Mr Trumps remarks as emotional, and said US officials should "refrain" from making "statements based on unsubstantiated information".

Mr Mujahid told state media outlet RTA that the airfield was "controlled by the Islamic emirate, referring to the Taliban government, and not China.

Chinese troops are not present here nor do we have any such pact with any country, he said. We request that Trump's team explain to him and correct his information about Afghanistan.

Mr Trump had claimed during his election campaign that the sprawling airfield was under the control of the People's Liberation Army, a claim he repeated after taking office.

China previously denied that its troops were stationed at Bagram.

The Bagram airfield, located about 44km north of the capital Kabul, served as the central command for the US-led Nato military campaign for two decades before the withdrawal four years ago. It was also the US epicentre of the war to oust the Taliban and hunt down the Al Qaeda leadership held responsible for 9/11.

Mr Trump has routinely criticised the previous administration of Joe Biden for "badly handling" the American withdrawal from Afghanistan and leaving behind heavy equipment.

We left billions, tens of billions of dollars worth of equipment behind, brand new trucks. You see them display it every year...someplace where they have a road and they drive the, you know, waving the flag and talking about America, he said. Thats all top of the line stuff. I think we should get a lot of that equipment back.

Mr Trump also accused the Taliban government of selling American gear which he claimed made Afghanistan one of the biggest sellers of military equipment in the world.

Can you believe it? They're selling 777,000 rifles, 70,000 armour-plated trucks and vehicles, he said. This is 70,000 vehicles we had there, and we left it for them. I think we should get it back.

The Taliban spokesperson argued that the weapons belonged to the previous Afghan government  which was backed by Nato and collapsed when the Western troops withdrew  and were considered spoils of war. The Taliban, he added, was using the weapons to protect the country.

The US provided $18.6bn worth of equipment to the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces between 2005 and August 2021, according to a Pentagon report.

The $7bn worth of equipment that was left behind during the 2021 withdrawal included aircraft, air-to-ground bombs and missiles, vehicles, weapons, and communications gear.
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Animal rights activists and local residents expressed outrage after a pet dog was found critically injured with arrows embedded in its body in the Philippines.

The dog, named Tiktok, was left with injuries that would require long-term care following the attack last week in the Negros Occidental province.

Tiktok was shot with five arrows in the Murcia area of the island, BACH Project PH, a nonprofit that rescued the dog, said. The group said the dog was recovering but would require therapy to regain mobility in its left leg.

Animal rights advocates and local authorities announced a reward of $5,500 (4,363) for information leading to the arrest of the attacker.

A suspect had been identified but not arrested, BACH Project PH said in an update on Sunday, adding that an investigation was going on.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society said it was horrified by the attack. This blatant act of cruelty cannot be ignored, and even more chilling is that Tiktoks suffering is not an isolated incident, it said.

Such violence against these innocent animals is deeply disturbing and serves as a painful reminder of the ongoing devaluation of Aspin lives. Too often, Aspins are seen as easy targets to subject to cruelty, whether through slingshots, guns, or other forms of abuse.

Aspin, native to the Philippines, is one of the most popular dog breeds in the country.

The Tiktok attack has reignited discussion on the need for stronger protections for animals in the country. Lawmakers and advocacy groups have called for amendments to existing laws to impose stricter penalties on offenders and enhance animal welfare education.

Senator Grace Poe, one of the lawmakers who have moved an amendment to the animal welfare law, demanded stricter laws to protect animals against such barbaric acts.

Such cruelty to an innocent creature has no place in our civilised society, she said. What will stop the perpetrators from shooting humans next time? We call on the residents to help the local government unit and animal welfare groups in finding the individuals who harmed Tiktok.

The senator said the shocking incident should drive the federal government to expedite the passage of the revised Animal Welfare Act.

The Animal Welfare Act of the Philippines provides for punishing anyone found guilty of animal cruelty with imprisonment and fines but activists argue that enforcement remains weak.

Murcia mayor Gerry Rojas condemned the attack on Tiktok as barbaric and offered legal assistance to prosecute those involved in the incident.

Mayor Gerry M Rojas strongly condemns the recent act of abject cruelty and cowardice against an innocent dog within our community, his office said. He emphasizes that such barbaric behaviour is unacceptable and does not reflect the true values of Murciahanons.
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Thailand is considering constructing a wall along a section of its border with Cambodia to combat illegal crossings, the government announced on Monday.

This comes amid a growing international campaign to dismantle a vast network of illicit scam operations in Southeast Asia.

These scam centres, often located along Thailand's borders with Myanmar and Cambodia, are responsible for widespread financial fraud. The United Nations has reported that criminal gangs have trafficked hundreds of thousands of people into these operations in recent years.

Over the weekend, Cambodian authorities handed over 119 Thai nationals to Thai police following a raid on a scam compound in Poipet. The raid freed more than 215 people.

While the Thai government is exploring the possibility of a border wall, details remain scarce. Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub confirmed the proposal is under review, stating, "If it is done, how will it be done? What results and how will it solve problems? This is a study." The spokesperson did not specify the proposed length of the wall.

A spokesperson for Cambodia's government declined to comment on the wall proposal. Its foreign ministry spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Thailand and Cambodia share a border of 508 miles. The Thai defence ministry has previously proposed a wall to block off a 34 mile natural crossing between Thailand's Sa Kaeo province and Poipet, which at present is only protected by razor wire.

Telecom fraud centres have been operating for years in Southeast Asia, ensnaring people of multiple countries as far away as West Africa.

open image in gallery Chinese actor Wang Xing, right, talks with Thai police officers in Mae Sot district, in Thai-Myanmar border ( AP )

They have faced heightened scrutiny after the rescue in January of Chinese actor, Wang Xing, who was lured to Thailand with the promise of a job before being abducted and taken to a scam centre in Myanmar.

In Myanmar's Myawaddy, more than 7,000 foreigners - mostly from China - are waiting to cross from into Thailand, which is coordinating with embassies to to try to streamline their repatriations.

Hundreds of foreigners pulled out of the compounds are in limbo in squalid conditions in a militia camp in Myanmar and are struggling to secure a route home, according to some detainees, while a top Thai lawmaker last week said the crackdown is insufficient, estimating 300,000 people have been operating in compounds in Myawaddy alone.
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A doomsday prepper has gone viral for telling women how to prepare for attacks, emergencies and the apocalypse with a variety of unusual methods.

Sari Sanchez was inspired to start her prepping social media pages after watching action films such as Rambo and Commando with her late dad, Felipe, who died when she was 16.

Preppers are people who actively get ready for global catastrophe.

The 40-year-old, Chicago-born stars content focuses on both grounded and left-field issues, including must-have tools, skills and recommendations for flat tyres, wildfires and even a zombie apocalypse or alien invasion.

She has amassed more than 50,000 followers and millions of views on her TikTok account @prettyinprep by sharing her top survival guidance, self-defence tips and emergency essentials.

open image in gallery Seri Sanchez on social media ( Seri Sanchez )

Sanchezs advice is tailored to women, including how to use a steel pen or hot coffee for self-defence, the dangers of driving with a claw clip in your hair and a recommendation for a portable toilet which can fit in your purse.

A lot of people make prepping a political thing, or they think of a weird guy with a beard living in a hut in the woods with his dog and his manifesto  I think I provide a different face, Sari told PA Real Life.

I also love makeup, and I love to laugh, I dont take anything too seriously, which is a nice balance to facing the apocalypse.

I prepare so that I dont have to face those situations.

I dont want to go to an island and be naked and survive off frog skin  but would I like to play a character that does? I sure would.

Sanchez developed a survivor mindset from a young age thanks to being an only child of a dad that loved action movies.

She counted Jean Claude Van Damme, Steven Seagal, Bruce Lee and Sylvester Stallone amongst her action heroes, recalling how she would watch films like Under Siege, Bloodsport and Rambo with her father Felipe instead of doing her homework.

I was his little girl but he treated me like his little boy, Sari said.

I think especially because I was a girl, he was like, You can do anything. You can survive.

Felipe, a Mexican immigrant who set up his own handyman business, was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, a form of leukaemia, when Sanchez was 12.

open image in gallery Seri Sanchez on social media ( Seri Sanchez )

Despite being given just two months to live, he lived a further four years, passing away when Sanchez was 16.

During college, Sanchez worked three jobs to fund her studies and joined the rifle team with the Reserve Officers Training Corps, a scheme which trains students to become officers in the US Armed Forces.

Equipped with a diligent work ethic and troubled by the dangers she witnessed in these formative years in Chicago, Sari soon decided her future lay in survivalism.

I watched people get robbed. I watched women get harassed, she said.

I felt like I needed to take care of myself just the same way my dad taught me when I was a little girl.

Moving to Los Angeles, California, in 2007 to pursue a career in Hollywood, Sanchez became interested in camping and started learning much more about prepping and survivalism.

In 2023, she started making TikTok videos, showcasing the key items she keeps by her bed including a crowbar, flashlight and gloves for removing rubble or glass and the contents of her emergency bug-out bag.

open image in gallery Seri Sanchez on social media ( Seri Sanchez )

This bag holds her go-to essential items, including a tourniquet, gloves, goggles, a mask, a water filter, basic medication, a Diva menstrual cup or period underwear, a radio and a map.

Her videos soon went viral, and she found a niche tailoring her advice, product reviews and equipment breakdowns to women.

Sanchezs tips include self-defence guidance such as how to use pepper spray and tasers and how hot coffee or a steel pen can be repurposed as weapons in the event of an attack.

Other videos see her showing off gas masks and crossbows, explaining how to ensure makeup doesnt smudge when putting on a motorcycle helmet and building a survivalist essentials bag for a Taylor Swift concert.

Sanchez said her advice seems to have cut through, explaining: All of my friends now carry flats with them if they go out to be able to walk, or they get off their phone, take the pods out of their ears, and just be aware of whats going on.

open image in gallery

For her, prepping is about planning for the end of the world and day-to-day issues.

In one video she explains how women can urinate while in a car in case they are evacuating from an alien invasion or on a roadtrip and its not safe to pull over.

Another discusses putting on makeup to feel confident before facing a difficult day or the apocalypse.

Sometimes youre putting on makeup, and it feels like war paint, she said.

So, if your apocalypse is going to a meeting where a bunch of people are trying to fire you, and you want to feel really good about that presentation, and youve got to put a little war paint on that comes in the shade of diva from Mac Studios, girl, you put that on.

While Sanchez doesnt believe an apocalypse is around the corner, she explained: If youre in a car and you break down and youve got a kiddo, you should know what to do.

I talk a lot about aliens and zombies because its fun, and it makes it less scary to think about tsunamis and war and bad guys coming into your house.

Sanchez advised wannabe survivalists to start by using an old backpack to create a bag that can be grabbed in emergencies, with a water bottle and first aid supplies

open image in gallery Sanchez and her late father, Felipe ( Sari Sanchez )

Then really think about your community and your skills, she said.

Be nice to people and get to know people, because maybe they can help  you dont have to do it all alone.

Rather than heightening her anxiety, Sari said imagining possible disasters helps her to remain calm.

I feel more at peace if Im controlling my environment, she said.

Be as prepared as you can be and then let go you have a piece of chocolate, you laugh, you throw on some lipstick, because why not? You live your life.
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Julia Fox appeared to take a page out of Bianca Censoris book at this years Oscars.

On Sunday, the Uncut Gems actor was spotted at Vanity Fairs exclusive after-party inside the Beverly Hills Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. Fox showed up wearing a transparent mesh dress adorned in faux hair by Turkish designer Dilara Findikoglu.

The dress drew comparisons to Censoris controversial outfit at the Grammy Awards last month. The Australian model and her husband, Kanye West  whom Fox dated briefly in 2022  walked the red carpet at the Crypto.com arena dressed in all black before reaching the photographers section. There, Censori dropped her coat to reveal an entirely nude look in a sheer mini-dress.

The stunt drew widespread concern for the rappers wife, who is known for being paraded in public in barely-there outfits.

Julia Fox showed up at the Oscars and pulled a Bianca Censori, wrote one person on X of Foxs outfit.

Bianca censori was way better, another opined.

Where is Kanye in this photo? a third asked.

Foxs after-party dress was designed by Dilara Findikoglu ( Getty Images )

Despite the comparisons to Wests current wife, Fox has previously spoken out about her short relationship with the rapper, revealing during an interview with The Times that she never even wanted to go public with him.

Speaking to the publication, Fox said: I regret that relationship so much. I hate it! It was only a few weeks but enough to last me a lifetime. I was in probably the most uncomfortable position in my life and thats saying a lot. I dont want to be known for being anyones girlfriend.

Of the scrutiny she received for dating West shortly after his separation from Kim Kardashian, the actor said: It wasnt my idea for it to go public. If anything, I was like, We should wait, and then boom, it was done behind my back. I realized pretty quickly I was being used as a pawn.

Fox is also no stranger to sheer outfits. When she attended the Grammys last month, she wore a different sheer look, sporting a black mini-dress over a matching thong and bra. She also wore a black leather jacket with puffy white sleeves, a black sheer hat, and black leather boots.

However, it was her colorful accessory that stood out: Yellow latex gloves.

When you had a fierce dishwashing gig at 6:30 but had to attend the Grammys at 7, one person on X quipped.
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A yellow suit, silver gowns and stars shining bright highlighted the red carpet at the 2025 Academy Awards Sunday.

The 97th annual awards ceremony gathered Hollywoods biggest stars, directors and producers inside Los Angeles Dolby Theater to celebrate the best in film and cinema. That also meant a fashion display as the celebrities arrived.

This awards season red carpet style was an ode to old Hollywood glamour with many stars encapsulating the aesthetic of the 1950s with bouffant hair, understated couture, satin galore, and crystal-encrusted designs. Actors also appeared to forfeit the signature bowtie for dangling jewels.

From Ariana Grande to Timothee Chalamet, here are the best dressed stars on the 2025 Oscars red carpet:

Timothee Chalamet

open image in gallery Timothee Chalamet posed outside the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles in a pale yellow satin ensemble by Givenchy, complete with a double-breasted, cropped suit jacket and matching strait-leg pants ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery The 29-year-old was up for Best Actor for his role as Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery However, he did not win an award during the ceremony ( AFP via Getty Images )

Colman Domingo

open image in gallery Colman Domingo stunned in a hot red Valentino suit with black lapels and a long waist band. Domingo teamed the tailored ensemble with circular red shades ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery The 55-year-old is being honored for his role in Sing Sing, the film based on the real Rehabilitation Through the Arts prison program ( Getty Images )

Demi Moore

open image in gallery Demi Moore dazzled on the red carpet in a shimmery, crystal-encrusted Giorgio Armani dress with scallop detailing, a plunging neckline, and her signature long black hair ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Moore spotted a long train on her dress that flowed behind her on the red carpet ( REUTERS )

open image in gallery Moore was up for her first Oscar for her performance in The Substance ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Moore lost the top actress award to Mikey Madison who won for Anora ( REUTERS )

Emma Stone

open image in gallery Emma Stone was the picture of glamour in a soft, sequin gown and a slicked-back pixie cut ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Stone arrived with her husband Dave McCary on her arm for the ceremony after taking home an Oscar last year ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Stone helped present the award for Best Actress during the ceremony ( EPA )

Ana de Armas

open image in gallery Ana de Armas smiled for the cameras in a diamond halter-neck black gown outside the Dolby Theater ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery The 36-year-old Blonde star presented an award during the ceremony tonight ( Getty Images )

Elle Fanning

open image in gallery Elle Fanning strode onto the coveted carpet outside the Dolby Theater in a white lace Givenchy gown embellished with a thick black bow belt ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Fanning famously played Sylvie Russo, Bob Dylans longtime love interest, in this years Oscar-nominated film A Complete Unknown ( Getty Images )

Ariana Grande

open image in gallery Ariana Grande arrived at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles in a stunning, sculptured Schiaparelli gown with a waterfall tulle skirt, paying homage to her role as Glinda in Wicked ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery The 31-year-old artist was up for her first Oscar for her supporting role in John Chus movie adaptation of the popular Broadway show, Wicked ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Grande mingled with other stars in the show showing off her dress as she walked the theater ( EPA )

open image in gallery The star also wowed with her musical performance to open the Academy Awards ( REUTERS )

Paul Tazewell

open image in gallery Paul Tazewell arrived to the star-studded awards ceremony in a double-breasted black tuxedo with a white satin neck tie and a jeweled embellishment ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery The 60-year-old costume designer became the first Black man to win for costume design ( Getty Images )

Lupita Nyong'o

open image in gallery Lupita Nyongo stunned ahead of the anticipated awards ceremony, posing on the red carpet in a delicate white corseted gown with embroidered pearls and a matching bow ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Nyongo is best known for her role as Patsey in 12 Years a Slave ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Nyongo is set to star in 2026s The Odyssey by director Christopher Nolan ( Getty Images )
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A beloved Paddington Bear statue at the heart of the characters creators hometown was stolen and smashed in half.

The sculpture on a public bench in Michael Bonds town of Newbury, West Berkshire, was taken and vandalised overnight on Saturday.

It was unveiled in the town centre in October ahead of the release of the film Paddington in Peru and quickly became a favourite attraction for children.

Two 22-year-old men have been arrested on suspicion of theft and criminal damage and remain in custody, Thames Valley Police said.

A total of 23 statues of the marmalade-loving bear were originally installed across the country, but Newbury was the only place allowed to keep one permanently.

Lee Dillon, Liberal Democrat MP for Newbury, said in a post on X, formerly Twitter: Heartbreaking to see that Paddington in Newbury has been vandalised. He brings so much joy to our community.

Just yesterday, I stopped to take a photo of him with my family. This senseless damage is so disappointing.

Investigating officer Inspector Alan Hawkett, of the Neighbourhood Policing Team, based at Newbury police station, said: The Paddington Bear statue is a beloved part of Newbury so we have been doing everything we can to locate it and the offenders.

I am delighted we have made two arrests and recovered the statue, which we will keep safe and support its restoration to its rightful place in Northbrook Street.

In the meantime, Paddington is heading to Newbury police station for a much-needed marmalade sandwich.

Anyone with information about the theft and criminal damage should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43250102626.

Alternatively, provide information anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.

Thank you to everyone who has supported our investigation so far and shared their memories of the statue with us.
Something I am still fighting to know is, why was it me? Lisa* is speaking over Zoom, with her camera turned off  a tool to protect her anonymity and take back a morsel of control more than a decade after becoming police property. Was he just given free rein? Was it his choice? Was I someone convenient? Was it that he really was attracted to me, so that it worked out? Was he given my name by someone else? Was I a target?

Lisa, 50, was a target  though how exactly that played out in paperwork will perhaps never be known. In 2011, when she was 37, she discovered that her loving six-year relationship had been orchestrated by the Metropolitan Police; that her boyfriend, Mark Stone  real name Mark Kennedy  was an undercover spy. Everything shed felt, and felt to be true, had been a lie.

She is one of 60 women who were victims of the so-called spy cops scandal. Officers working for the National Public Order Intelligence Unit (NPOIU) under the Metropolitan Police Special Branch ran a covert operation, spying on the lives of thousands of citizens for more than four decades.

Around 140 police officers were sent to spy on 1,000 political groups, concocting elaborate fake personas as committed activists to compile damning dossiers on mostly left-wing, progressive groups like Greenpeace; they even used the names of 80 dead babies to carry out their surveillance.

To anyone listening to Lisas story  the long years she spent in a relationship with Kennedy, which drew out over the course of her thirties, and over significant, painful events in her life  the basic details are shocking enough. Kennedy accompanied her to her fathers funeral, where he met and lied to her entire family, playing the supportive boyfriend that he never was. They were, Lisa believed, in love  a simple thing, and Kennedys cruellest weapon, all part of the plot. Actually, I didnt have the free will to be in love, she explains.

None of the women involved did. In fact, they were manipulated into intimate, sexual relationships, their lives invaded and forever changed by a government-endorsed tactic to spy on political groups who posed no real threat to the state at all. Undercover officers, most of whom  like Kennedy  were married, were encouraged to sleep with activists, a landmark tribunal case brought by one victim, Kate Wilson, heard in 2021.

This week, five of the women involved will speak on camera for the first time, in a new documentary by ITV and ITVX, The Undercover Police Scandal: Love and Lies Exposed. Theyre a formidable group, bound by terrible secrets and shared trauma who, together, tell a chilling story that they say is far from over.

Lisa first met Mark when she was 29, when he became involved with a social community centre for environmental campaigners she was part of. Her friends trusted him so, naturally, so did she. Their tight-knit lobby group became social  he came to parties at her house, they went on climbing trips together and began seeing each other a short time later.

open image in gallery Helen, Alison and Naomi, whose stories are all featured in The Undercover Police Scandal: Love and Lies Exposed ( ITV )

She loved him totally, completely, more than anyone, shes said in the past. I thought I knew him better than anyone else knew him. He would often be away on weekends or on long trips, sometimes for three months at a time for work  but, still, they were closer than close and rarely argued.

Lisa later learnt that undercover police like Kennedy were given training from a textbook to learn how to manipulate women like her: It was only afterwards that I heard the word mirroring, she says. Kennedy would imitate her interests, body language and values to gain trust. Any common ground was ultimately hollow, any conflict artificially resolved.

When they did argue, it was when he wasnt able to be around, when I needed him. Kennedy heartlessly accompanied her to her fathers funeral, but weeks later told Lisa that he couldnt be by her side to scatter his ashes. In disclosure documents she has seen during the long, ongoing inquiry into the scandal, Ive since seen authorisations given to him about attending my fathers funeral, she explains. When I wanted him to come and help me with my dads ashes, his authorisation was refused.

The mundanity of their lives together is all documented in official police files. Anyone with whom Kennedy happened to form a basic relationship during the course of his investigation, like Lisas friends and family, was coldly marked up as collateral intrusion. She recalls a time that Kennedy told Lisa he was going to watch the Tour de France, and came back with a set of Le Creuset pans for her, which prompted a whole discussion between him and his handler about giving me this present, she explains.

open image in gallery Activist Kate Wilson was one of the first women who were targeted to seek legal action ( PA Wire )

Had I liked it? Was it useful? Did it work to convince me? For one thing, I just kept thinking about the police budget thats being spent on this, she continues, adding, Ive still got some of those pans.

It wasnt until the pair were on holiday, travelling around Italy in a van in July 2010 that Lisa pulled the first thread that would eventually unravel their idyllic life together. When he went out on a cycle ride, she happened upon his passport, which named him as Mark Stone. It also included information about his child. Nearby was a mobile phone he rarely seemed to use, which she unlocked. It contained emails from two children, both of whom were calling him dad.

Lisa didnt say anything straight away  and when she did, a few days later, Kennedy eventually broke down and came up with another elaborate lie about his past as a drug runner. He told Lisa that during this time, his best friend was shot in front of him and hed promised to look after his child. He was emotional, and Lisa desperately wanted to believe him, despite her gut telling her otherwise.

They put it behind them  but Lisas subsequent suspicion that he was undercover police remained. The discovery of his sons birth certificate, by a friend who was researching ancestry online, confirmed it: his occupation was recorded as police officer, he had a family in Ireland all along. With a group of carefully selected friends, she confronted him.

Shortly afterwards, Lisa told her story on Indymedia, a networking site for grassroots campaigners and alternative media activists, which blew the spy cops scandals epic proportions wide open. A trial for a separate case, in which Kennedy tipped off police about a plot by climate change activists to disable a power plant in Ratcliffe-on-Soar, Nottinghamshire, collapsed in the wake of Lisas revelations.

open image in gallery Lisa: Something I am still fighting to know is, why was it me? ( ITV )

Journalists began investigating and uncovering the overwhelming extent of officers deception, and slowly, more women came forward with eerily similar stories and chilling patterns. Most of the relationships ended the same way  a sudden disappearance to move abroad, an apologetic letter. In 2011, eight began landmark legal action to sue the police for emotional trauma; Mark Kennedy was said to have had relationships with three of the women involved. In 2015, they won an apology from the Met Police. The same year, Peter Francis, a whistleblower who exposed how police had spied on the campaign for justice for Stephen Lawrence, spoke up in 2015 and a public inquiry was called.

Today, more than a decade later, the weight and reverberations of what Lisa has been through and carried with her for more than a decade since her story broke the spy cops scandal wide open are ever-present. She has had to come to terms with the fact that Kennedy took away her chance to decide if she really wanted to have children; she says shes struggled to have a relationship since.

For her, the devil truly lies in the details  in the chilling realisations and unending quest for truth. Ive possibly wasted quite a lot of years trying to think about whether his feelings may or may not have been genuine, she says. You can tie yourself up in knots. I have done so.

Actually, the most harrowing thing is this: you dont just find out that your partners been lying to you, but you find out that I was his job. He was being paid overtime for nights spent with me, for example. The thing that really kept me awake at night for quite some time was the question of how many people were in our relationship  when I was speaking to my boyfriend on the phone late at night, were there other people on those calls?

The Met Police has issued a fresh apology to victims of the scandal in light of ITVs documentary release for the legacy of hurt caused. But victims and campaigners say that not enough has changed  and legislation still allows inordinate freedom of power to undercover police. The women are now campaigning for gaps in legislation that essentially allow for officers to form sexual relationships with targets to be closed. Meanwhile, laws on protesters have been tightened, says Lisa.

Now she wants the public to understand the extent of the rot of a system rooted in misogyny that allowed her and so many others to be so cruelly abused. What I want people to know is: this could have happened to anyone. It could happen to anyone. It could be happening to anybody whos reading these words now, or somebodys daughter or cousin or friend, she says.

Its not like we were a strange group of outliers. I think everybody should be concerned. Not because of what they did to us necessarily, though that is a warning. But because of what they could be doing to anybody, right now, right this second.

*Name changed to protect her identity

The Undercover Police Scandal: Love and Lies Exposed airs on 6 March at 9pm, on ITV1, ITVX and STV
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A popular sandwich topping has been urgently pulled from shelves over fears it could pose a health risk to some customers.

Food safety watchdogs has placed a do not eat warning on Baxters Sliced Gherkins Crunchy & Sweet, sold in supermarkets such as Tesco for 2.50.

It is feared the sandwich and burger accompaniment contains undeclared mustard, which could pose a danger to those with an allergy to the spice.

Baxters Food Group, which manufactures the product, said the recall only affects certain jars with specific best before dates. These include June 2026 and July 2026.

Mustard allergy sufferers can experience symptoms such as stomach pain, swollen lips, vomiting or rashes if they accidentally eat a product containing it.

open image in gallery Baxters Sliced Gherkins Crunchy & Sweet have been pulled from shelves over fears of undeclared mustard ( Food Standards Agency )

A Baxters spokesperson said: If you have bought the above product and have an allergy to mustard, do not eat it.

Instead dispose of the product and contact the customer care team on 0800 389 8389 and CCUK@baxters.com for a replacement.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) added: Baxters Food Group is recalling Baxters Sliced Gherkins Crunchy & Sweet because they contain mustard which is not mentioned on the label.

This means the product is a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to mustard.

In February, supermarkets selling a range of Irish blended cheeses issued an urgent recall over fears batches could be contaminated with the potentially killer bacteria listeria.

open image in gallery An urgent recall was issued on a range of Irish blended cheeses last month ( FSA )

Shoppers who bought Horgans Irish Smoked Cheddar, Claddagh Bo Irish cheese and many variants of Old Irish cheddar were urged to return the products.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) warned that symptoms caused by listeria could be similar to flu and include a high temperature, muscle aches and diarrhoea.

Symptoms of listeria poisoning can start quickly, within a few hours or days after eating contaminated food. However, in some cases they can take up to three months to show.

Those most vulnerable to getting sick include the very young, people older than 65 and those with weakened immune systems or who are pregnant.
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Supermarkets have issued an urgent recall for a popular childrens cereal after manufacturers spotted a potential choking hazard.

Shoppers who bought Nestles Frosted Shreddies are being urged to return the cereal after fears lumps of sugar forming in the packets could make the malt squares unsafe to eat.

The recall applies to 500g packs with batch codes 42870952, 42880952, 42890952 and 42900952 expiring in July.

Specific batches of the popular cereal have been recalled ( X/@NestleUKI )

Another urgent recall applies to 40g boxes sold as part of the Nestle Box Bowl Mixed Cereals with boxes featuring the batch codes 42913451, 42923451, 42933451, 43173451, 43183451, 43193451, 43203451, and 43233451 set to expire in June and July.

The codes can be found on the top of the product packaging.

Nestle apologised to customers before assuring shoppers that no other batches of Frosted Shreddies or any other Nestle cereals were affected by the recall.

A Food Standards Agency (FSA) notice announcing the recall said: Cereal Partners UK and Ireland are recalling Nestle Frosted Shreddies because they may contain small hard lumps of sugar which have formed in the product.

This makes the product unsafe to eat and may present a choking hazard.

A spokesman added: If you have bought any of the above products do not eat them. Instead return them to the store from where they were bought for a full refund. Alternatively, you can contact Nestle.

On Wednesday, Cheshire Farm recalled batches of its Caramelized Biscuit Ice Cream and Biscoff Ice Cream because they contain hazelnuts.

The FSA, which published the alert, said the products are a possible health risk for anyone with an allergy to nuts.

Customers can contact Nestle, with their pictures of their affected batch code, via the contact form on its website or via phone on 0080007890789 to receive a refund.
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A multi-millionaire's ex who claimed she was promised half their 18m family house during lunch on a snowcapped mountain has lost her court fight after a judge found the meeting was an "elaborate performance" to keep her happy when he failed to marry her.

"There may be many people who would consider this a cruelty...but that is insufficient to give her legal rights," High Court Judge Joanne Wicks; KC said.

At 20, Christina Haynes was less than half her 46-year-old multimillionaire boyfriend Mark Austins age when they met in 2000 and began what she called a blissfully happy relationship, during which they had two kids.

She gave up her job and the couple set up home in a west London mansion now worth 18m, with Mr Austin sinking his wealth into offshore trusts which by 2018 were worth about 66m.

However, despite her wishes, they didn't marry and split in 2018, with Mr Austin, now 71, agreeing following Family Court proceedings to pay his 45-year-old furniture designer ex 2.75m to buy a new house for her and the kids.

But he did not pay and she went back to court, claiming that she had in fact been promised half of their former home when Mr Austin took her to a lunch with the manager of his wealth trusts in the Liechtenstein Alps in 2014.

open image in gallery Vaduz castle ( Supplied by Champion News )

Ms Haynes said her ex sat next door while, over a mountaintop lunch, the trust boss assured her that a previous promise from Mr Austin that she would have half the value of the house, set out in a letter of wishes, would be honoured.

However, after a trial at the High Court, Judge Wicks KC has now rejected her claim, finding that any assurances given to Ms Haynes during the lunch were not binding.

She said Ms Haynes had been taken through "an elaborate performance in getting her out to Liechtenstein" to make her feel more secure at a point when the relationship was under "strain" due to her "desire to be married."

It had been a "bone of contention" that they were not married and Ms Haynes was concerned what her own mum would have thought about her being an unmarried mother, bringing up the kids alone in London with Mr Austin in Switzerland.

That and further correspondence in 2016 had involved administrators of the trusts, on Mr Austin's instructions, "tip-toeing up to the line with Ms Haynes to give her comfort, but without crossing it into making a firm commitment," she said.

"There may be many people who would consider this a cruelty to Ms Haynes, but that is insufficient to give her legal rights," she added.

The High Court heard that Ms Haynes, a former travel editor at now defunct luxury lifestyle magazine Tramp, met her tycoon ex Mark George Austin in 2000 and fell head over heels in love.

In the witness box, she told Judge Wicks that the couple were initially "blissfully happy" and that she was "highly dependent" on him, having given up her job to raise their children.

She said she gave her then boyfriend a 60,000 inheritance from her mother to invest and paid for some of the works to the house herself, as well as managing the household and the property after Mr Austin sold his image library company Digital Vision Ltd in 2006, putting the proceeds into trusts and moving to Switzerland to minimise the tax he would pay.

Ms Haynes told the court that in 2014 her ex took her to Liechtenstein to meet the manager of the trusts, which own the house, and that during that trip "assurances" were made that, despite his wealth being squirrelled away, she would be looked after financially if they split up.

During the meeting, the then trust manager had "confirmed that the agreement between Mr Austin and Ms Haynes would be adhered to" and "assured her that she and the children were protected, that there was security for them and they could trust him," the barrister added.

The deal was sealed over "lunch on the snow-covered mountains," Ms Haynes told the judge, with the trust manager "reassuring me that despite not being married this was still security for us and I could trust him.

"I was assured that my home and my children were protected," she added.

The arrangement that Ms Haynes would share the value of the house with Mr Austin was repeated in a letter by a later trust manager in 2016, she said.

The couple split at New Year 2017-18 and in December the following year they agreed a consent order under which Mr Austin was to pay her 2.75m to buy a new house and agreed to her staying in the family home until the new property was purchased.

In October 2019, a Family Court judge attached a penal order to the consent order, as it had not been paid along with over 200,000 worth of legal costs.

In 2020, the manager of the controlling overseas trust behind Hamersley Invest Anstalt, the trust company through which the west London property is owned, wrote to Ms Haynes giving her notice to leave, as the house was to be sold.

But Ms Haynes obtained an injunction preventing her eviction and in 2021 was also granted charging orders of around 3m against the value of the property in relation to the money she was owed by her ex.

The case went back to court in November when Judge Wicks was asked to decide whether Ms Haynes should be thrown out or whether the 18m house should be sold so she could get her half share, plus 3m from her exs portion.

open image in gallery Christina Haynes outisde court ( Champion News )

The judge returned to court last week and gave judgment, rejecting Ms Haynes' claim to half the proceeds of sale of the house and her bid to force its sale.

But she also rejected Hamersley Invest Anstalt's bid to throw her out, finding that Ms Haynes has the right to stay until another property is found for her.

She said the events of March 2014, involving "the flying out to Zurich" and her Liechtenstein Alps meeting with trust boss, Dr Markus Wanger, had been an "elaborate performance" to make her feel more secure, despite being unmarried.

"In my judgment, the representations made by Dr Wanger in 2014 fall short of the promise of an interest in the property which is required for a proprietary estoppel," she continued.

"On the one hand, they were undoubtedly intended to be relied on by Ms Haynes: Mr Austin and Dr Wanger took her through an elaborate performance in getting her out to Liechtenstein and allowing her to see Mr Austins letter of wishes being formally notarized.

"It can hardly be said to have been unreasonable for her, in the circumstances, to have relied on what was then said and done.

"But what she was told on that occasion was not that the letters of wishes conferred, or would confer, an interest in the property on her.

"It was that Dr Wanger had a genuine intention to administer a discretionary trust on the basis set out in the letters of wishes and she could trust him to do so.

"Objectively, a reasonable person would have understood from Mr Austins letter of wishes that it was revocable and that, if circumstances changed, Dr Wanger might depart from what was there set out.

"I do not consider that Dr Wanger made clear that he was giving a promise that would not be revoked, particularly if her relationship with Mr Austin subsequently foundered."

Referring to letters in 2016 by a later trust director, Dr Helmut Schwaerzler, which referenced Mr Austin's wish that she have a half share, had been "caveated" by references to his "discretionary powers," she continued.

"Both Dr Wanger and Dr Schwaerzler were, on the instructions of Mr Austin, tip-toeing up to the line with Ms Haynes to give her comfort, but without crossing it into making a firm commitment," she said.

"There may be many people who would consider this a cruelty to Ms Haynes, but that is insufficient to give her legal rights by way of an estoppel."

The judge rejected all of Ms Haynes' claims to be entitled to a half share of the proceeds of the house and for an order for sale to pay off Mr Austin's bills, as it is not actually owned by him but the trust company.

However, she also rejected Hamersley Invest Anstalt's application for possession of the house, saying that she can stay in the house until another is provided for her.
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Forty years on, a woman separated from her conjoined twin in a groundbreaking surgery has reunited with the doctors who made her life possible.

In 1985, Jill Reich gave birth to twins Holly and Carly, who were joined from breastbone to belly button.

Just days later, a team of 26 clinicians, led by surgeons Lewis Spitz and Edward Kiely, embarked on a nine-hour operation at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London to separate the infants.

While the separation was successful, Carly died of heart complications six weeks later.

Holly had 10 subsequent operations and a year-long stay at Great Ormond Street.

Now known as Holly Queiroz and living in Texas in the United States, she has maintained contact with Professor Spitz over the years, even attending his retirement celebration in 2004.

In a heartwarming reunion ahead of her 40th birthday, Ms Queiroz reconnected with both Professor Spitz and Mr Kiely via video call, marking the first time she had spoken with the latter in two decades.

The surgeons extended their birthday wishes to Ms Queiroz.

open image in gallery Ms Queiroz and her twin were separated at Great Ormond Street Hospital

Ms Queiroz said: Im very grateful to Professor Spitz and Mr Kiely, and thankful that in a small way I helped them learn when they did our separation, so that so many children were able to live.

Its incredible to think what my parents went through. I know that my mum felt that Great Ormond Street Hospital and Professor Spitz, Mr Kiely and all the nurses there became family because we were there for the year, and that was really wonderful.

I wanted to say thank you to them both, I truly am alive because of them and I know it was a whole different world 40 years ago, and things were quite new in this realm, but God bless them for having the knowledge and the ability.

I am so thankful for them both because I have been able to live a really beautiful life and it wouldnt have happened without them.

Since the operation, teams at Great Ormond Street Hospital have cared for 43 sets of conjoined twins  thought to be the most conjoined twins in the world at a single hospital.

Describing the first operation on Holly and Carly, Professor Spitz said: We had never done it before, so it was unique and it was an emergency. I was certainly nervous.

When we started we had ultrasound but no CT, no MRI and so we were going in blind, we just had to do the operation.

We had a cardiac surgeon with us in case they were joined at the heart.

Imaging has been one of the biggest changes.

Its great when we get to see them again, it makes you realise we saved their lives and you get to hear how they are doing and feel so proud.

Mr Kiely said: At the time it was new, but it was actually just a major operation and we were doing lots of of major operations so I wouldnt say we were overwhelmed, but we were very aware that two babies were at risk.

A lot of people were involved and they were all important as they allowed us to do the separation.

Looking back, the improvements in anaesthesia and intensive care have made the biggest difference.

When youre a paediatric surgeon, youre dealing with children and hoping theyll have another 70 years to go.

You are trying to maximise their potential and hope you are setting them up to ease their travel through life.

Mr Kiely and Professor Spitz worked at Great Ormond Street Hospital for more than 25 years.
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A clash is brewing at the Royal Society, the world's oldest scientific academy, as its fellows convene to discuss Elon Musk's alleged breaches of their code of conduct.

The meeting follows an open letter, signed by more than 2,400 individuals including Nobel laureates, accusing the X owner of propagating unfounded conspiracy theories.

The letter's author, Emeritus Professor Stephen Curry of Imperial College London, said Mr Musk was an active disseminator of misinformation on his social media site X (formerly Twitter).

The letter was not about restricting political viewpoints or enforcing some kind of political conformity, but upholding the Royal Societys core principles of scientific integrity, respect for evidence, and adherence to truth, Professor Curry said.

These principles will be central to the code of conduct under scrutiny at Monday's meeting, where fellows will deliberate on the principles around public pronouncements and behaviours of fellows.

Professor Curry, a structural biologist, said fellowship of the society was an honour that depended on following the code.

Fellows were responsible for exemplifying the very highest ideals and standards of behaviour expected of all scientists, he said.

In that respect it seems to me, and it seems to everybody who has signed the letter, that Mr Musk has deviated from that standard in a very serious way.

open image in gallery Elon Musk has been accused of spreading misinformation on social media ( Reuters )

In the open letter, published a fortnight ago, Professor Curry said he was writing to express my dismay at the continued silence and apparent inaction from the Royal Society over the fellowship awarded in 2018 to Elon Musk.

He wrote that concerns regarding Mr Musk potentially breaching the code were first raised more than six months ago.

Professor Curry also mentioned the tech entrepreneurs X post in which he attacked Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips over the issue of historical grooming gangs in the UK.

The letter was sent to Royal Society president Sir Adrian Smith, who then sent fellows a letter announcing a meeting would be held in March.

In late February, the Royal Society released a statement headed science under threat that Professor Curry said addressed some concerns he had raised.

It did not name Mr Musk, but the professor said it was a step in the right direction.

open image in gallery Elon Musk attacked Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips, pictured, over the issue of historical grooming gangs in the UK ( PA Wire )

The statement said: Ideological agendas are being used to suppress research, threaten academic freedom and to cut funding.

Scientific evidence and those who advocate for it are under attack by those who wish to undermine rational debate.

Platforms that should facilitate open, transparent debate are giving free rein to harmful misinformation and ideological attacks on people and ideas.

The Royal Society will use its voice and the expertise of our fellows to resist the various challenges to science.

It added that the academy stands for equality, diversity and inclusion.

Professor Curry said that he did not believe the Royal Society would reach a decision about Mr Musk on Monday.

But people needed a clear account of the academys options and whether it was satisfied that Mr Musk did not breach the code, he said.

I think if they want to maintain the trust of the wider scientific community, which I think they do, then some explanation of the action or inaction that theyve taken is warranted, he added.

Professor Curry is not invited to the closed meeting as he is not a fellow.

After the fellows meeting it would be for the leadership to decide whether to make a statement, he said.
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Ministers are expected to axe plans to give people a right to switch off outside work hours, reports have suggested.

The policy - which was a central part of Sir Keir Starmers manifesto promise of a New Deal for Working People aimed at strengthening employment rights - would allow workers to ignore work-related emails and calls outside office hours, including the right to refuse to take on extra work at the weekends.

Labour had previously said the policy, inspired by models in Ireland and Belgium, would ensure that working from home does not become homes turning into 24/7 offices.

While it did not appear in the Employment Bill which is currently making its way through Parliament, there were promises from ministers it would emerge in future.

However, that has now changed, and ministers are expected to say in the coming week that the policy has been dropped, when they table a series of amendments to the Bill, according to the Sunday Times newspaper.

A Government source told the newspaper the right to switch off is dead.

open image in gallery The policy is not contained in the Employment Bill which is currently making its way through Parliament ( PA Wire )

Ministers are said to be making the change in a bid to boost business confidence, after the Budget placed extra costs on employers in the form of the national insurance contributions hike.

The Government source added: Growth that puts money in peoples pockets is the number one priority of this Governments plan for change.

That means making Britain the best country in the world to do business and a key part of that is removing unnecessary barriers.

The plan had received renewed backing from Starmer in August, with the prime ministers deputy spokesperson saying: This is about ensuring people have some time to rest.

Good employers understand that for workers to stay motivated and productive they do need to be able to switch off, and a culture presenteeism can be damaging to productivity.
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Motorists have been hit by 90-minute delays on the M62 after a fatal late-night crash left part of the motorway closed.

Commuters faced more than 10 miles of gridlock on Monday morning following the serious collision by Junction 19 near Heywood late on Sunday night, and were urged to find alternative routes where possible.

Greater Manchester Police said a 24-year-old man had died in the crash, which occurred at around 11:30pm on the stretch of motorway between the exits for Heywood and Rochdale.

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Initial enquiries have established an Audi A5 S line car was travelling on the M62 before it came off the carriageway and collided with a bridge. It is believed no other vehicles were involved, Greater Manchester Police said in a statement.

Motorway authorities said the vehicle had caught fire in the crash, and police reported that the man died from his injuries at the scene.

The road was closed while police carried out enquiries, and delays were expected at least until 10:15am, according to National Highways.

As of 9:45am, there were traffic queues reaching close to Huddersfield in West Yorkshire.

open image in gallery There were 10 miles of tailbacks on Monday morning, National Highways said ( Motorway Cameras )

Detective Constable Rachael Stafford said: Since we became aware of the incident last night, we deployed officers to the scene and are now in a position to appeal to any members of the public who were on that stretch of road last night and can help with our enquiries, this could include those who have access to dashcam footage.

At the heart of this is a man that has sadly lost his life in tragic circumstances and family and friends who are now having to come to terms with losing a loved one this morning.
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Three men who allegedly plotted to murder a career criminal had stolen Ming dynasty antiques worth nearly 3 million from a Swiss museum shortly beforehand, a court has heard.

Paul Allen, a 41-year-old former cage fighter, was paralysed after being shot in the neck at his home in Woodford Green, east London, on July 11 2019.

Allen had moved to the area after serving time for a 54 million Securitas raid in Kent, Britains largest cash robbery.

Louis Ahearne, 36, Stewart Ahearne, 46, and Daniel Kelly, 46, are accused of plotting to murder Allen, alongside others unknown.

On Monday, jurors at the Old Bailey were presented with facts regarding the defendants' previous criminality.

They heard of a burglary at the Museum of Far Eastern Arts in Geneva on June 1 2019, a month before the shooting.

During the burglary, three pieces of Ming-era porcelain, insured for US$3.58 million (2.78m), were stolen. The items included a 15th-century bottle with a pomegranate decoration, a chicken cup wine cup, and a 14th-century An Huan phoenix design bowl.

According to the facts read out by the prosecution, Kelly and Louis Ahearne had flown from London to Geneva the day before the raid.

open image in gallery A Ming dynasty vase stolen from the Geneva museum ( Metropolitan Police/PA Wire )

That afternoon, Louis Ahearn carried out reconnaissance at the museum and made a video of Room 3  referred to as the Ming Porcelain room  on his phone.

The next day, Stewart Ahearne joined the other two defendants and hired a Renault at the airport, jurors were told.

They bought tools and clothes before carrying out the burglary at 11.21pm.

Jurors heard they arrived at the museum in the Renault equipped with masks, gloves, two forehead lamps, an angle-grinder, crowbar and sledgehammer.

They smashed two lower panels on the museums main door to make a hole, through which they entered.

Police later identified DNA around the hole as belonging to Stewart Ahearne, the court was told.

The defendants headed to Room 3, forced open a display case using the sledgehammer and crowbar and seized the three Ming dynasty antiques.

Afterwards, attempts were made to dispose of the stolen goods, jurors were told.

open image in gallery Louis, left, and Stewart Ahearne ( PA )

The defendants flew to Hong Kong on June 14 2019, where they attempted to sell the phoenix bowl at an auction house.

On October 16 2020, Stewart Ahearne was arrested with another man at a London hotel as they tried to sell the Ming vase to an undercover police officer.

A later search of a property revealed a passport in the name of Stewart Ahearne and a book on Ming dynasty antiques, the court was told.

Previously, jurors have heard how two of the defendants were involved in another burglary in Kent the day before Allen was shot.

A Renault Captur was hired by Stewart Ahearne from a dealership in Dartford and used by the other two defendants in a burglary on a gated community in Kent, the court has heard.

The prosecution has alleged the background to the shooting was that Allen was a sophisticated career criminal.

open image in gallery Former cagefighter Paul Allen, who was convicted of Britains largest cash robbery, was shot in the neck in his kitchen ( PA Media )

He was convicted at Woolwich Crown Court for his part in Britains biggest armed robbery, at Securitas in Kent, in which 54 million in cash was stolen, much of which has never been recovered, the court has heard.

By 2019, Mr Allen had been released from prison and moved from south London to a large detached property in Woodford, north-east London, where he lived with his partner and young children.

The defendants had allegedly travelled from their home turf in the Woolwich area of south-east London, through the Blackwall Tunnel to the victims new home in Malvern Drive as part of the planning and execution of the conspiracy to murder him.

Louis Ahearne, from Greenwich, south-east London, and Stewart Ahearne and Kelly, both of no fixed address, have denied conspiring to murder Mr Allen between June 26 and July 12 2019.

The Old Bailey trial continues.
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Households across the UK could receive appliances, utility bill help and even cash payments worth up to 300 as a part of an ongoing government scheme.

Available to those struggling with their finances, the Household Support Fund (HSF) is offered by local councils alongside the regular benefits and grants.

Some councils are offering appliances like air fryers and microwaves, while others are even replacing the winter fuel payment for pensioners who were ruled ineligible for it due to Labour changes last year.

The nationwide scheme was first introduced by the Conservative government in 2021 to support vulnerable households through the cost of living crisis and Covid-19 pandemic.

open image in gallery The UK has experienced severe weather in January, driving up the cost of energy bills ( REUTERS )

But with costs and bills remaining high long past the peak of the pandemic, the temporary measure has now been extended five times, most recently by Labour in August.

The latest round of funding has provided local authorities with a share of the 421 million pot to spend how they feel will best support households in their areas. Some may provide cash grants, for instance, while others are offering supermarket vouchers or heating support.

In most cases, there will be strict criteria for a household to be eligible for support through the local HSF. This will include factors such as income, vulnerability of the resident, number of dependents and cost of bills. Most schemes will also require households to apply, and not be awarded automatically.

Heres your guide to what support is available in local areas across the country. Be aware: many of these schemes will be withdrawn when the councils funding allocation for them is met.

London

Tower Hamlets

Access to the HSF in Tower Hamlets is available through the authoritys Resident Support Scheme. This is designed to help with short term living costs including food, gas/electric meters, and in some cases white goods and furniture.

The authority has also used part of its HSF allocation to provide financial support to low-income pensioners who do not qualify for the winter fuel payment.

Executive Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Lutfur Rahman, said: Making the Winter Fuel payment means-tested will have a detrimental effect on pensioners who are already facing the rising costs of energy bills.

This creates a risk that pensioners will not turn their heating on for fear of not being able to pay the bills, which is wrong.

This is why we are stepping in and providing a 175 safety net for those who will be missing out.

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Tower Hamlets council website.

Lambeth

Lambeth council says its HSF will be used for the following:

Support for families in receipt of free school meals during the holidays. Families will receive this support directly from their child's school

Extra funding to enhance the council's cash payouts for low-income residents most in need. Eligible residents will have received a letter with details on how to collect their payment

Funding for food banks and surplus food distribution sites

Specialist energy saving support and advice

Additional funding for the Emergency Support Scheme for residents in an emergency or crisis, such as residents struggling to pay bills or afford food

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Lambeth council website.

Enfield

Through Enfields HSF, assistance may be available for:

Food (this may be through a food bank and pantry referrals)

Energy bills and water bills/top-ups

Support with housing costs, but not mortgage payments

Wider essentials, such as broadband, phone bills, clothing or essential transport related costs

White goods, such as a fridge/freezer, washing machine or cooker. White goods will be sourced from a suitable provider. The council will not be able to provide a cash payment

A cash award (limited to 250)

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Enfield council website

Croydon

Croydons HSF fund will go towards helping residents with household costs. These could include:

Top-ups for pre-paid energy and water meters

Assistance with energy and water bills debts

Food vouchers

Housing support (in exceptional circumstances, excluding mortgage payment)

The fund can also go towards essential household appliances and essential transport costs.

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Croydon council website.

Kingston

Kingston council says it will use its HSF allocation to support households in need afford the essentials. Vouchers will be made available to support with costs such as food, utility bills and other pressures.

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Kingston council website.

Rest of England:

Solihull

In the West Midlands, Solihull council is providing energy payments worth 147 to households with biomass heating. All homeowners, private renters and housing association or council tenants can apply for extra support if they meet all the criteria. This means they must:

Heat their home via Biomass and are a tenant of Solihull Community Housing

Have a combined gross household income of no more than 31,000 per year

Have no household savings (Pensioners can have up to 10,000 in savings per pensioner)

Have someone living in the home with a vulnerability

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Solihull council and Act on Energy application page

North Lincolnshire

In North Lincolnshire, over 6,000 pensioners will receive free airfryers, with over 1,000 delivered so far. The council says the the initiative is designed to help reduce energy bills and cool more healthy meals.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: Many pensioners are struggling to pay their energy bills and relied on the winter fuel payment at this time of the year when energy bills soar, particularly as the temperatures have plummeted and at North Lincolnshire Council we want to do our bit to help.

The council is also sending out over 1,300 slow cookers and nearly 400 one-cup kettles. In December, the household support fund was also used to send 200 low-income pensioners in the area to replace the funds loss from the removal of the winter fuel payment.

Newcastle

In Newcastle, the HSF will be used for:

Free school meal vouchers for children over the school holidays

Hardship payments for residents in financial difficulty (applications not yet open)

The council will also be contacting local pensioners receiving council tax support and/or housing benefit who no longer qualify for the winter fuel payment following Labour changes to the benefit.

Advise from the authority reads: We will support 3,700 households in receipt of Council Tax Support and or Housing Benefit who will not qualify for the Governments Winter Fuel Allowance.

Worcestershire

In Worcestershire, the HSF will provide eligible households with:

Financial support toward current energy and water costs

Financial support toward energy and water debts only

Help to repair, service and replace broken boilers and heating systems

Support with food costs or direct provision of food

Support with wider essentials

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Worcestershire council website.

Surrey

Surrey council will be using the HSF to fund several strands of support for struggling households, these include:

Provision of free school meals vouchers to eligible children over the school holidays.

Continued support for food banks, community fridges and food clubs

Funding for the Surrey Crisis Fund

The council has also set aside 750,000 for residents via District and Borough councils.

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Surrey council website.

Hertfordshire

In Hertfordshire, residents eligible for the HSF can benefit from:

Supermarket vouchers during the holidays for families receiving free school meals

Money for food and energy

Assistance with housing costs

Additional support for people on pension credit

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Hertfordshire council website.

Staffordshire

Staffordshire County Council has laid out how it intends to use the HSF, with schemes including:

Emergency payments for vulnerable households to help with essentials

Supermarket eVoucher scheme with eligible households receiving 65 per household and 20 per additional dependant.

Utility support worth 300

Education support fund  households with children receiving free school meals given supermarket vouchers over the holidays.

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Staffordshire council website.

Coventry

In Coventry, vulnerable households can benefit from:

Essential utility support worth 120 or 160 for households with children. Can be applied for a maximum of three times.

Food support with three emergency food parcels per household

Household appliances, furniture, clothing, bedding and toiletries all considered in exceptional cases

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the Coventry council website.

York

In York, there is currently one scheme running through the HSF:

Payment to bank account of 115, to help towards household bills for households receiving council tax support

Discretionary payments for households in need and not receiving council tax support

For eligibility and how to apply, visit the York council website.

There are over 300 local authorities in the UK. For more information about whats available in every area, the End Furniture Poverty charity offers a helpful assistance finder tool.
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Donald Trump criticised European leaders including Sir Keir Starmer on Monday, deriding their weekend talks over Ukraine and launching a furious new attack on Volodymyr Zelensky for saying a peace deal is still very, very far away.

In what could be a major setback in ending Russias war on Ukraine, the US president fired off a tirade just as the prime minister was on his feet in the Commons insisting America was vital, sincere and indispensable in the path to peace.

Sir Keir rejected calls from MPs for Britain to shun Mr Trump and America after last weeks extraordinary ambush on Mr Zelensky in the White House Oval Office.

Follow the latest updates in our Ukraine live blog here

However, just hours before Mr Trump paused all military aid to Ukraine, the president said in a social media post: This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer! This guy doesnt want there to be peace as long as he has Americas backing.

And in a sideswipe at Sir Keir and other European leaders, he added: In the meeting they had with Zelensky, [they] stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US  probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?

open image in gallery Ed Davey said that President Trump is not a reliable ally with respect to Russia ( PA Wire )

Later on Monday night, Mr Trump warned Mr Zelensky "won't be around very long" if he did not end the war soon.

At a press conference at the White House, Mr Trump told reporters: The deal could be made very fast. It should not be that hard a deal to make. Now, maybe somebody doesnt want to make a deal, and if somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long.

It was a deepening of the diplomatic crisis that began on Friday when Mr Zelensky was asked to leave the White House after being bullied in front of the worlds media by Mr Trump and vice-president JD Vance.

Sir Keir has attempted to act as a bridge between America and Europe, hosting a summit of 19 leaders, including EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen and Nato chief Mark Rutte on Sunday.

But he appears to be at odds with the French president Emmanuel Macron about the coalition of the willing that Britain and France are meant to lead.

When he came to the House of Commons to outline his proposals, the prime minister received praise for his diplomacy but also a number of awkward questions about his support for Mr Trump.

open image in gallery Starmer updated MPs following intensive diplomatic efforts around the Ukraine crisis ( PA Wire )

The SNP and Tory shadow minister Alicia Kearns called for the invitation from the King for a second state visit  which Sir Keir brandished at the White House last week  to be rescinded.

The prime minister rejected those demands and warned MPs that any solution to Ukraine and European security would need to be achieved by working more closely with the US president.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said the UK needs to reduce our dependency on the United States as he fears that President Trump is not a reliable ally with respect to Russia.

He told the Commons: Weve entered a new era, one where the United States prefers to align itself with tyrants like Putin rather than its democratic partners. We need to reduce our dependency on the United States because I say with deep regret that I fear that President Trump is not a reliable ally with respect to Russia.

Mr Trumps decision to halt aid to Ukraine will see more than $1 billion in arms and ammunition for Ukraine thats been ordered or is in the production process put on hold. It will also halt hundreds of millions of dollars of arms tied to the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, in which Ukraine uses U.S. funds to buy gear from American defense firms, The New York Times reported, and raises questions about intelligence sharing between the two countries.

But Sir Keir said: I welcome the understanding from our dialogue that our two nations will work together on security arrangements for a lasting peace in Ukraine. I also welcome the presidents continued commitment to that peace, which nobody in this House should doubt for a second is sincere.

He added: Our defence, our security, our intelligence are completely intertwined, no two countries are as close as our two countries and itd be a huge mistake at a time like this to suggest that any weakening of that link is the way forward for security and defence in Europe.

open image in gallery Emily Thornberry is critical of the decision to cut the overseas aid budget ( PA Archive )

He also avoided answering a question about Britains ambassador to the US, Lord Mandelson, making statements in support of Mr Trump that defence minister Luke Pollard said did not reflect government policy. The diplomat claimed that Mr Trumps mineral deal initiative to end the war was the only show in town.

Sir Keir said: The plan is clear, were working, particularly with the French, Ive had extensive conversations with President Macron over the last week, intensively over the weekend, talking to Ukraine as well, those are going on at the moment.

Ukraine latest The latest from The Independent's Ukraine war live blog as of 04/03/2025 US President Donald Trump halted military aid to Ukraine following a clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.

Trump's administration stated the aid was being reviewed to ensure it contributes to a peace deal, with officials reportedly in talks with Russia.

This decision follows Trump's frustration with Zelensky's assessment that the war's end is still distant.

The US is the largest supplier of military aid to Ukraine, and this pause impacts over $1 billion worth of equipment.

Australia is considering contributing to a potential peacekeeping force in Ukraine.

Follow the latest updates

In a further clash, he accused Nigel Farage of fawning over Putin when the Reform UK leader asked him how many British troops would be stationed in Ukraine.

The prime minister also faced a backlash from senior Labour MPs over his decision to cut the overseas aid budget to fund an increase in defence spending.

Dame Emily Thornberry, who chairs the foreign affairs committee, said it was hard to believe there will be enough money left in the budget to support areas such as Ukraine, Sudan and Gaza.

Sir Keir defended the defence spending increase, adding on overseas aid: I am committed to it. What we will now do is go through, line by line, the funding and look at our priorities.
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Nigel Farage has been accused of acting as Donald Trumps spokesman in Britain for refusing to criticise his ally after the US president bullied and belittled Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office last Friday.

The Reform UK leader blamed the Ukrainian president for having played the White House meeting very badly, as well as accusing Mr Zelensky of bowling in and showing no respect for his American counterpart.

And, asked whether he thinks Mr Trump and vice president JD Vance had bullied Mr Zelensky, Mr Farage deflected to accuse the Ukrainian of having been rude to his US counterpart in his own house. He was condemned by opponents from across the political spectrum for the intervention.

open image in gallery Nigel Farage refused to condemn Donald Trumps attack on Volodymyr Zelensky ( Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire )

Calling out the Reform UK leader in the Commons, Sir Keir Starmer said: Can I just remind him that Russia is the aggressor. Zelensky is a war leader whose country has been invaded. And we should all be supporting him and not fawning over Putin.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said: Nigel Farage is once again showing his true colours as Trump's own spokesman here in Britain.

"Zelensky showed courage and integrity in that room - in stark contrast to Farages cowardly approach of licking Trumps boots.

"Farage is more focused on promoting Trump and Musks interests in the UK than British interests in the States. He was once again parroting White House talking points this morning, to the dismay of British people here at home. It's clearer than ever that Nigel Farage is simply out for himself and his Mar-a-Lago cronies.

open image in gallery Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey condemned Nigel Farages remarks ( PA Wire )

And the Conservatives said Mr Zelensky is a hero who has stood up to Putins aggression and led his countrys defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion.

It is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that, shadow foreign secretary Priti Patel said. She added: For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelenskyy is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive.

At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.But sadly, it is not surprising. Like Jeremy Corbyn, the Leader of Reform UK seems to have history equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

open image in gallery Priti Patel compared Nigel Farage to Jeremy Corbyn over his comments ( PA Wire )

Labour MP Blair McDougall, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told The Independent he was utterly unsurprised by Mr Farage joining the attack on Mr Zelensky.

He added: Most of us look at Putin and feel disgust. Farage has always seen someone to admire. A leader who cant pick a side between a murderous dictatorship and a democracy doesnt deserve to be anywhere near decisions about Britains security.

And Labour MP David Taylor told The Independent: Its telling that when the PM announced the essential uplift in defence spending, not a single member of Reform was there to ask a question.

Mr Farage is not fit to comment on Zelenskys actions. The former appears constantly absent while the latter has fought not just for Ukraines future, but for ours here in the UK.

Mr Farage claims Reform is the patriotic party, but calls Zelensky, who is the greatest war time leader of our generation, unwise.

Tim Roca, Labour MP for Macclesfield, added that his latest refusal to stand by Ukrainians demonstrates his warped worldview.

Reform wrap themselves in the flag and performative patriotism only to abandon the values our country was built on, he told The Independent.

I'm proud the PM is living up to those values, showing leadership, and demonstrating to Putin we stand with our allies and a just peace for Ukraine."

Speaking to LBC on Monday, Mr Farage said: I think president Zelensky was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didn't back him. I think it was unwise. Yeah, sure, Vance and Trump bit back. But I think in diplomatic terms, I think Zelensky played it very badly.

Asked if he would treat a guest like that, Mr Farage said: I wouldn't expect a guest to be rude to me in my own house. Absolutely not. I would expect a guest with respect.

When pressed on whether he saw any problem with the way Mr Trump behaved, he responded: I'm not defending what they did.

open image in gallery Donald Trump and JD Vance launched an extraordinary attack on Volodymyr Zelensky ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

He was then asked whether he himself would behave like that, to which he responded: I try not to, adding: This is irrelevant.

Mr Farage later joined Mr Trump in questioning Mr Zelenskys outfit choice for his White House visit, saying: If I turned up on the White House, I'd make sure I was wearing a suit, my shoes were cleaned.

It is not the first time the Reform leader has been criticised for his approach to the conflict in Ukraine. During the general election, he was condemned for claiming the West had provoked Russia into the deadly invasion.

Labour MP Will Stone added: Nigel Farage and Reform are all over the place when it comes to supporting Ukraine. Farage has openly stated he admires Vladimir Putin and claimed that Russias invasion of Ukraine was a consequence of EU and NATO expansion.

This weekend our prime minister Keir Starmer showed that our support for Ukraine is unwavering. It's a shame Nigel Farage and Reform MPs can't do the same.

Meanwhile Liberal Democrat MP Caroline Voaden told The Independent Mr Farage was more focused on parroting Trump talking points than engaging in a serious debate about the future of UK and European defence.

She added: The Prime Minister was right when he said Europe is at a crossroads in history, and as the days go on, were increasingly seeing which sides politicians are taking. Farages appearance on LBC today will do nothing to dissuade the view that he is suspiciously soft on Russia and Trump.

To talk again about Zelenskys clothing was particularly galling. Why is he focused on something so trivial when the future of Ukraine as a democratic nation is on the line?

The latest row comes after Mr Trump Mr Vance berated Mr Zelensky over his conduct during the Ukraine war and apparent lack of gratitude for American donations during a televised conference in the Oval Office.

The Ukrainian president also faced questions on his choice of outfit, with Mr Trump making quips about the Ukrainian leader being all dressed up - referring to his military-style sweatshirt and trousers, adorned with the Ukrainian trident, which he wears as a show of solidarity with soldiers fighting on the frontlines.

Mr Zelensky, who left the White House straight after the meeting, flew to London where he attended a summit of European leaders which saw them discuss a peace plan for Ukraine and security on the continent.

On his arrival, Sir Keir Starmer said Mr Zelensky had "full backing across the United Kingdom" as he welcomed him to Downing Street.

And on Sunday, King Charles met Mr Zelensky at Sandringham in an overt show of solidarity with the Ukrainian president, and the most conspicuous political act the King has made since succeeding Queen Elizabeth II, who went to great lengths to keep out of politics.
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Peter Mandelson has said Ukraine should be the first side to declare a ceasefire in its war with Russia as he called for Volodymyr Zelensky to back Donald Trumps minerals deal in a clash with Downing Streets position on the war.

The UK ambassador to the US said the Ukrainian president needs to get back on the same page as his US counterpart after a White House meeting between the pair descended into an extraordinary shouting match.

After Mr Zelensky was asked to leave the White House early, without signing a deal giving the US access to Ukrainian minerals, Lord Mandelson said a very radical reset was needed.

open image in gallery Peter Mandelson was slapped down over the remarks, with a minister describing them as not government policy ( Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street )

Armed forces minister Luke Pollard slapped down the ambassador over his remarks, saying they dont reflect government policy. But Downing Street later backed the ambassador, saying in his role he does speak for the government.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer dodged the question when asked about it in the Commons by Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey.

The plan is clear, he said. Were working, particularly with the French, Ive had extensive conversations with President Macron over the last week, intensively over the weekend, talking to Ukraine as well, those are going on at the moment.

When asked about Lord Mandelsons remarks, the prime ministers official spokesperson simply referred to Sir Keirs words on Ukraine, saying he has made very clear his position on all of this and the priority here is reaching a durable peace.

Pressed on whether, more generally, Lord Mandelson speaks for the government, the spokesperson said: Of course, hes our ambassador to the United States. But Ive also been very clear that youve heard from the prime minister on these issues that when it comes to achieving a durable peace in Ukraine.

Speaking to ABC News, the Labour grandee said: We need a very radical reset. The reset has to consist of the US and Ukraine getting back on the same page. And President Zelensky giving his unequivocal backing to the initiative that President Trump is taking to end the war and to bring a just and lasting peace to Ukraine.

And the Europeans, too, need to back the calls for a ceasefire. And by the way, I think that Ukraine should be the first to commit to a ceasefire and defy the Russians to follow.

Sir Ed accused Lord Mandelson of confusing the governments position.

He wrote on X (Twitter): What is Mandelson up to? You cannot square what the prime minister said this morning with this. What is the governments actual position?

Our man in DC should be securing US protection for our brave Ukrainian allies, not telling President Zelensky what to do.

Mr Trump has said US firms exploiting Ukraines mineral wealth would act as a deterrent to Russian aggression because it would mean American workers on the ground in the country.

open image in gallery Defence minister Luke Pollard said Mandelson was not speaking for the government ( PA )

Lord Mandelson said the added incentive for the US to protect Ukraine after the deal meant it was the only show in town.

He added: After what happened on Friday, its clear that we need to bring the US and Ukraine back together again.

I think the first thing that President Zelensky can do is make clear his commitment to the initiative that President Trump is taking and yes, I do think it would be a good idea if he signed the economic and commercial deal put forward by the US. Quite apart from the economic gain that Ukraine will derive from that, it will also give the US a stake in Ukraines future.

It will mean that US commercial interests, US individual citizens will be on the ground there. That will be an even greater added incentive for the US to protect Ukraine in future and make sure war does not ensue again. Thats what I want to see. Thats what we all want to see.

Asked about the ambassadors comments, armed forces minister Mr Pollard had said: That is not government policy We are seeking to find that lasting peace.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelenskys meeting with Donald Trump descended into an extraordinary shouting match ( AFP via Getty )

Its certainly right that Ukrainians want peace. I think of all the people on our continent that want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most, but were still in discussions with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of that deal.

Former foreign secretary James Cleverly added: The UK ambassador to Washington isnt meant to communicate his own opinion, he is meant to communicate the UK government opinion.

[Foreign secretary David] Lammy and Starmer need to grip this.

Sir Keir Starmer on Sunday said Europe must do the heavy lifting in peace talks over Ukraine amid the fallout from Mr Trump and Mr Zelenskys meeting.

He said Britain, France and others have formed a coalition of the willing to form an alternative to Mr Trumps plan for peace to present to the US.

The prime minister said: We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk. Its time to act. Time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace.

Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that cant mean that we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency. The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others. Europe must do the heavy lifting.
Sir Keir Starmer is hardly the first leader in history to find themselves unpopular at home while highly regarded abroad; Tony Blair springs to mind. Indeed, some prime ministers have enjoyed escaping their domestic travails by attending international summits, scoring an invite to the White House or the Elysee, visiting Kyiv under bombardment, or sponsoring a doomed peace initiative in the Middle East.

The luckier ones manage to leverage their successes and stature abroad to burnish their image as a statesman/stateswoman, of which Margaret Thatcher was probably the most successful. It adds to the aura of leadership and who doesnt want someone respected in the world to head their country? So early in his premiership, could Sir Keir Starmer be about to turn prospective overseas triumphs into a home win?

What is Starmers current status?

Its hard to be scientific so soon after recent events but clearly he has enjoyed a good couple of weeks, with a glowing press even among those titles most unremittingly hostile to his domestic agenda. Next to Benjamin Netanyahu, he has enjoyed the happiest time in the White House, for example. The optics during his visit to Trump were excellent, the gift of a letter from the King inviting Trump to a historic second state visit being especially well choreographed. Starmer also confounded his critics by winning Trumps approval for the Chagos Island treaty, tariffs and even the whiff of a UK-US trade deal, the holy grail for Brexiteers. And of course Starmers high-profile role in seeking peace in Ukraine has won further panegyrics.

Is Starmer the new leader of the free world?

By default, it is looking that way. Mr Trump has, arguably, abdicated the traditional US role in favour of a partnership with Russia and rivals are all compromised. Emmanuel Macron is even more deeply unpopular at home than Starmer and, after a botched election, cannot appoint a stable government. Trudeau is on his way out. Germany is in transition and, for historical reasons, remains nervous about throwing its weight anywhere adjacent to Russia. Georgia Meloni is ideologically close to Trump but viewed with a little unease in the EU for that very reason. And Ursula von der Leyen only runs a large but fractious economic club with no army. And so the task falls to Starmer, not unlike the way he became leader of his party, almost by accident.

Will his recent activities boost his poll rating?

Yes, very likely. But the thing to always remember about Starmers personal ratings  as opposed to those of his party  is that theyve never been that high, and have been flattered by the fact that his Tory opponents have an even more dismal showing, the extreme example of that being Liz Truss. So, at the moment, on the last YouGov poll only 19 per cent of respondents rated him as the best prime minister, marginally behind the resurgent Nigel Farage, on 20 per cent. But Starmer is still way ahead of Kemi Badenoch, rated best by just 9 per cent, just ahead of Ed Davey on 8 per cent. Some 44 per cent said they didnt know.

How could it work for Starmer?

Foreign affairs dont figure much in British general elections, nor opinion polling. Britain is hardly a global power nowadays, and the economy, public services and immigration are bigger concerns. However, the drumbeat of war in Europe and the relative nearness of Ukraine has raised its profile and its plight has moved people. Volodymyr Zelensky is wildly popular  two-thirds of people hold a favourable view  while Putin is reviled (89 per cent unfavourable), and Trump isnt far behind the Russian  73 per cent negative. Being hugged by Zelensky, being hostile to Putin and trying to be a bridge to Trump and peace is optimal positioning for Starmer. It will certainly dispel some of the public disquiet about how much time the PM spends abroad.

Will it win the next election for him?

No, but how much it helps depends. If he is successful and seen to be so as the new leader of the free world, then hell be given some credit for that, and it will add to his serious guy image, placing him in a different league to Farage, Badenoch or Davey. On the other hand, the Starmer peace plan could all go horribly wrong. But of course NHS waiting lists and income tax will always count for more.
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Sir Keir Starmer has said Europe must do the heavy lifting as he seized control of Ukraine peace talks from Donald Trump.

The prime minister said now was not a moment for more talk, it is time to act after hosting a summit of 19 leaders from Europe and Nato at Lancaster House, London, with Volodymyr Zelensky to defend Ukraine from further Russian aggression.

Sir Keir told a press conference that the UK, France and others had formed a coalition of the willing to put together a plan for peace which they will present to Mr Trump  taking away the initiative from the US president who had wanted to impose his own deal.

He also announced a 1.6bn finance deal to help Ukraine buy 5,000 missiles in a show that the UK will continue to support the Ukraine presidents war efforts.

It came on the same day that President Zelensky met King Charles in a highly unusual political gesture by the monarch, seemingly designed to send a clear signal to the US president after he berated the Ukrainian leader in the Oval Office on Friday.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky and Keir Starmer chat before heading to a private room to hold a meeting during the summit ( PA Wire )

The prime minister said: We are at a crossroads in history today. This is not a moment for more talk. Its time to act. Time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace.

Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that cant mean that we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency. The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others. Europe must do the heavy lifting, he added.

But he insisted leaders would work with the US and any peace deal must have strong US backing to succeed.

Leading European figures made it clear that the events of last week were a turning point, with European democracies needing to rearm and no longer rely on America.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, a former German defence minister who has backed the idea of an EU army, announced she will present a plan to rearm Europe in the coming days.

open image in gallery King Charles hosted Zelensky at Sandringham ( Joe Giddens/PA Wire )

Speaking to broadcasters outside Lancaster House following the conclusion of Sundays summit, Ms Von der Leyen said that we have to put Ukraine in a position of strength so it has the means to fortify and protect itself in economic and military terms.

She added that therefore, the focus is not only on the military supply but also, for example, securing their energy system.

The commission president also made it clear that the EU will accept no deal which cedes Ukrainian territory to Russia that was seized since its full-scale invasion in 2022.

Meanwhile, new Nato chief and former Dutch PM Mark Rutte said it was a very good meeting which saw European countries stepping up, first of all, to make sure that Ukraine has got what it needs to stay in the fight as long as it has to continue.

He went on: What we also see is European countries really ramping up to help with security guarantees for the moment when a peace deal would be struck. Obviously, there is no deal yet, there is no ceasefire yet, but we have to prepare for that moment and [make] sure that European countries are willing to help out with the security guarantees.

And here I really saw quite a number of countries at this table, of course, the initiative being taken by the United Kingdom and France, but others wanting to help, I think thats important.

open image in gallery Starmer has insisted the UK is a reliable ally and said any deal would need the backing of the US ( AP )

Addressing journalists afterwards, Sir Keir insisted that Mr Trump and the US are reliable partners and reiterated that any successful lasting peace will require America having our backs.

The prime minister said that he does not accept the US is an unreliable ally. He made it clear he had been on the phone to Mr Trump since the row with Mr Zelensky and hinted that the US president was on board with his proposals.

He told the press conference: There are no two countries as closely aligned as our two countries and our defence, our security and intelligence is intertwined in a way no two other countries are, so its an important and reliable ally for us.

But he repeated his calls for European democracies to take back control of the defence of the continent against the belligerent threat posed by Putins Russia.

As Mr Zelensky flew to see the King at Sandringham, Sir Keir repeated his vow that the UK would continue to back Ukraine.

Sir Keir told the press conference that every nation must contribute in the best way it can and a number of important steps were agreed at the meeting.

He said: First, we will keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine now.

Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraines sovereignty and security, and Ukraine must be at the table.

Third, in the event of a peace deal, we will keep boosting Ukraines own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasion.

Fourth, we will go further to develop a coalition of the willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace.

Among the attendees at the summit were Mr Zelensky, and French president Emmanuel Macron, who both met Mr Trump at the White House this week.

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, Ms von der Leyen and Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez were also seated around the table of leaders at the gathering in central London.

Sir Keir said leaders had agreed to meet again very soon to keep up work on the plans.
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Experts say President Donald Trumps plan to impose a 25 percent tariff on most imported Canadian goods and a 10 percent tariff on Canadian oil and gas may have already caused irreparable harm.

If the tariffs are introduced on Tuesday, Canada has said it will retaliate with a 25 percent import tax on a multitude of American products, including wine, cigarettes and shotguns. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also urged Canadians to buy Canadian products and vacation at home.

Laurie Trautman, director of the Border Policy Research Institute at Western Washington University, warns the trade dispute will have far-reaching spillover effects, from price increases and paperwork backlogs to longer wait times at the U.S.-Canada border for both people and products.

These industries on both sides are built up out of a cross-border relationship, and disruptions will play out on both sides, Trautman said.

Even the threat of tariffs may have already caused irreparable harm, she said.

open image in gallery President Donald Trumps plans to impose a 25 percent tariff on most imported Canadian goods on Tuesday ( Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

The tariffs have already touched off a range of emotions along the worlds longest international border, where residents and industries are closely intertwined.

Ranchers in Canada rely on American companies for farm equipment, and export cattle and hogs to U.S. meat processors. U.S. consumers enjoy thousands of gallons of Canadian maple syrup each year. While Canadian dogs and cats dine on U.S. made pet food.

The Associated Press wanted to know what residents and businesses were thinking along the border that former U.S. President Ronald Reagan vowed would remain unburdened by an invisible barrier of economic suspicion and fear.

Heres what they said:

Skagway, Alaska-Whitehorse, Yukon

People flocked from the boomtown of Skagway, Alaska, to Canadas Yukon in search of riches during the Klondike gold rush of the late 1890s, following routes that Indigenous tribes long used for trade.

Today, Skagway trades on its past, drawing more than one million cruise ship passengers a year to a historic downtown that features Klondike-themed museums. But the municipality with a population of about 1,100 still holds deep ties to the Yukon.

Skagway residents frequently travel to Whitehorse, the territory's capital, for a wider selection of groceries and shopping, dental care, veterinary services and swimming lessons. The Alaskan city's port, meanwhile, still supports Yukon mining and is a critical hub for fuel and other essentials both communities need.

open image in gallery People gather along the streets of Skagway, Alaska, for a Fourth of July parade in 2023

Its a special connection, Orion Hanson, a contractor and Skagway Assembly member, said of Whitehorse, which sits 110 miles (177 kilometers) north and has 30,000 people. Its really our most accessible neighbor.

Hanson is concerned about what tariffs might mean for the price of building supplies, such as lumber, concrete and steel. The cost of living in small, remote places already is high. People in Whitehorse and Skagway worry about the potential impact on community relations as well as prices.

Norman Holler, who lives in Whitehorse, said the months the tariffs have loomed created an uncomfortable feeling and resentment. If the threat becomes reality, Holler said he would probably still visit Alaska border towns but not other parts of the United States.

Is it rational? I dont know, but it satisfies an emotional need not to go, he said.

- Becky Bohrer in Juneau, Alaska

Point Roberts, Washington-Delta, British Columbia

At the border of Washington state and British Columbia, the tension over tariffs is evident in a waterfront community that is hoping for Canadian mercy.

Point Roberts is a 5-square-mile (13-square kilometer) U.S. exclave whose only land connection lies in Canada, which supplies the unincorporated nub of American soil its water and electricity. Its a geographic oddity that requires a 20-mile drive around Canada to reach mainland Washington state.

Local real estate agent Wayne Lyle, who like many of his neighbors has dual U.S.-Canadian citizenship, said some of Point Roberts roughly 1,000 residents are signing a petition pleading with British Columbia's premier for an exemption to whatever retaliatory tariffs Canada may institute.

Were basically connected to Canada. Were about as Canadian as an American city can be, Lyle said. Were unique enough that maybe we can get a break.

Lyle, who serves as the president of the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce, said its too early to identify measurable effects, but he fears Canadians wont visit the popular summer getaway destination out of spite.

We dont want Canada to think were the bad guys, Lyle said. Please dont take it out on us.

- Sally Ho in Seattle

Billings, Montana-Alberta

The 545-mile (877-kilometer) stretch of land that separates Montana from Canada includes some of the sleepiest checkpoints on the binational border. Several of the state's border posts had fewer than 50 crossings a day on average last year.

But unseen, in underground pipelines that cut through vast fields of barley, flows about $5 billion annually worth of Canadian crude oil and natural gas, most of it from Alberta.

The lines traverse a continental pivot point -- Montana is the only state with rivers that drain into the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Canadas Hudson Bay  and deliver to refineries around Billings.

Canada is one of our major supply sources for oil across the United States, said Dallas Scholes, the government affairs director of Houston-based refinery company Par Pacific, which runs a processing facility along the Yellowstone River. If tariffs are imposed on the oil and gas industry,  its not going to be good for consumers.

open image in gallery Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has urged Canadians to buy Canadian products and vacation at home

People in Montana drive long distances given its sprawling size and burn lots of natural gas through harsh winters, making its residents the highest energy consumers per capita in the U.S., according to federal data.

That means a 10 percent tax on Canadian energy resources would be felt broadly. The states farmers would be among those hit more severely, given the large volumes of gasoline needed to run tractors and other equipment, according to Jeffrey Michael, director of the University of Montanas Bureau of Business and Economic Research.

It will be painful, but there are larger concerns if I were an agricultural producer in Montana, Michael said. Id be worried about the trade war escalating to where my products start to get hit with reciprocal tariffs."

- Matthew Brown in Billings, Mont.

Detroit-Windsor, Ontario

The Detroit River is all that separates Windsor, Ontario, from Detroit. The cities are so close that Detroiters can smell the drying grain at Windsors Hiram Walker distillery and Windsor can hear the music drifting from Detroits outdoor concert venues.

Manufacturing muscle makes the Ambassador Bridge, the 1.4-mile-long span connecting the two cities, the busiest international crossing in North America. According to the Michigan company that owns the bridge, $323 million worth of goods travel each day between Windsor and Detroit, the automotive capitals of their countries.

The U.S., Canada and Mexico have long operated as one nation when it comes to auto manufacturing, noted Pat DEramo, CEO of Vaughan, Ontario-based automotive suppler Martinrea. Tariffs will cause confusion and disruption, he said.

Right now, steel coils arrive at a plant in Michigan and get stamped into parts that are shipped to Martinrea in Canada. Martinrea uses the parts to build vehicle sub-assemblies that get shipped back to an automaker in Detroit.

Its unclear if parts would be taxed twice if they crossed the border multiple times, and if suppliers or their customers will have to pay for the tariffs. Also unclear is how a separate 25 percent levy on steel and aluminum that Trump said would take effect starting March 12 factors into the mix.

DEramo understands the impulse to strengthen U.S. manufacturing but says the U.S. doesnt have the capacity to make all the tooling Martinrea would need if it were to shift production there. At the end of the day, he thinks its sad tariffs will take up so much time, energy and resources, and only make vehicles even more expensive.

We need to be spending our time and money to get more efficient and reduce our costs so customers can reduce their costs, he said.

-Dee-Ann Durbin in Detroit

Buffalo, New York-Ontario

Buffalo, New York is, decidedly, a beer town. Its also a border town.

That makes for a complementary relationship. Western New Yorks dozens of craft breweries rely on Canada for aluminum cans and much of the malted grain that goes into their brews. Canadians regularly cross one of the four international bridges into the region to shop, go to sporting events and sip Buffalo's beers.

Brewers and other businesses fear there may be less of that, though, if the tariffs on Canada and aluminum go into effect. Trump's repeated comments about making the neighboring nation the 51st U.S. state already offended its citizens - so much so that Buffalos tourism agency paused a campaign running in Canada because of negative comments.

Obviously, having a bad taste in their mouth and booing the national anthem at sporting events is not a great thing for them coming down here and drinking our beer and hanging out in our city, said Jeff Ware, president of Resurgence Brewing Co.

open image in gallery U.S. President Donald Trump, left, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2019 ( AP )

The historic factory building housing Wares business in Buffalo is about 4 miles from the Peace Bridge border crossing, where 1.8 million cars and buses and 518,000 commercial trucks entered Buffalo from Ontario last year.

Its a terrible time to alienate customers, Canadian or American. The snowy first months of the year are hard enough for Buffalos breweries, Ware said. Higher prices from 25 percent tariffs would be yet another obstacle. Ware gets about 80 percent of the base malt be uses to make his specialty beers from Canada.

Labor is more expensive, energy is more expensive, all of our raw ingredients are more expensive, he said. Its death by a thousand cuts.

- Carolyn Thompson in Buffalo, N.Y.

Cutler, Maine-New Brunswick

Commercial lobsterman John Drouin has fished for Maines signature seafood for more than 45 years, often in disputed waters known as the grey zone that straddle the U.S.-Canada border.

The relationship between American and Canadian fishermen can sometimes be fraught, but harvesters on both side of the border know they depend on each other, Drouin said. Maine fishermen catch millions of pounds of lobsters every year, but much of the processing capacity for the valuable crustaceans is in Canada.

If Trump follows through with the threatened tariffs next week, lobsters sent to Canada for processing would be subject to customs duties when they return to the U.S. to go to market. Drouin fears what will happen to the lobster industry if the trade dispute persists and Canada enacts a retaliatory tariff on lobsters.

As the price goes up to the consumer, there comes a point where it just doesnt become palatable for them to purchase it, Drouin said.

Drouin, 60, fishes out of Cutler, Maine, and sees Grand Manan Island, an island in the Bay of Fundy that is part of the province of New Brunswick, when he takes his boat out. He described his business as right smack on the Canadian border in terms of both economics and geography.

He described himself as a fan of Trumps first term who is not overly thrilled with what hes been doing here. And he said hes concerned his home state could ultimately be hurt by the tariffs if the president isnt mindful of border industries such as his.

The rhetoric is a bit much, whats taking place, Drouin said.

- Patrick Whittle in Scarborough, Maine
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Firefighters battled over 170 blazes across North and South Carolina over the weekend as dry conditions and strong winds fueled fast-moving wildfires, prompting evacuations and sending residents indoors.

In South Carolina, more than 175 fires have torn across the state, forcing Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency on Sunday. The order aimed to bolster wildfire response efforts and ensure adequate resources for firefighters. A statewide burning ban also remained in effect on Tuesday.

Careless behaviors, such as burning on the wrong day, leaving a fire unattended, not staying with a fire until it is fully extinguished, can result in a fire escaping and becoming a dangerous wildfire that quickly threatens lives and property, North Carolina Forest Service Assistant Commissioner and State Forester Greg Hicks warned on Monday.

Follow our live coverage of wildfires.

One of the largest fires erupted in the Carolina Forest area, just west of Myrtle Beach. The Horry County blaze, which started Saturday, rapidly expanded to 1,600 acres, doubling in size overnight. By Tuesday morning, it had spread across 2,059 acres and was 30 percent contained, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

While the fire had forced evacuations, many residents have been able to return home. No injuries or structural losses have been reported. However, fire danger was expected to continue through Tuesday afternoon, bringing gusts between 20 and 25mph.

open image in gallery A weekend map shows all the fires reported in North Carolina, with blazes marked by red still active. There were fewer on Tuesday as crews made progress ( Screengrab/North Carolina Forest Fire )

In North Carolina, the U.S. Forest Service reported multiple wildfires burning across four national forests. The largest, in Uwharrie National Forest, located about 50 miles (80km) east of Charlotte, had burned approximately more than 400 acres (162 hectares) by Monday.

Further west, in Polk County, a brush fire near the town of Tryon threatened communities in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The fire had consumed 593 acres and was 63 percent contained, as crews made tremendous progress.

There is a storm front approaching and there will be high winds before and after the rain. It does look like there will be a lot of rain so the burn ban for Polk County will remain in place, until there is a significant amount of rain, said Polk County Emergency Management.

The North Carolina Forest Service has deployed aircraft for water drops and back-burning operations. Officials warn that residents near affected areas should expect heavy smoke as containment efforts continue. And, wildfire smoke was impacting visibility in South Carolina, making driving tricky.

Due to the nearby wildfire incident, heavy smoke is expected in the Carolina Forest area through at least midday Tuesday, the county police said.

open image in gallery A helicopter drops water to help contain a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, 2025, where residents were ordered to evacuate several neighborhoods ( AP )

The National Weather Service has cited critically dry vegetation and low humidity as key factors fueling the blazes.

While the Horry County fire is believed to be human-caused, the investigation into the matter has not been completed. It remains unclear what caused the other fires.

To watch some of our neighbors houses catch on fire is something Ive never experienced before, Polk County resident Phillip Smith told WBTV on Monday.
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Five people have been hospitalised after violent turbulence forced a flight to make an emergency landing in Waco, Texas.

The plane, a SkyWest 5690 flight, departed at 16:50 from Springfield, Missouri, on Sunday and was due to arrive in Houston, Texas, later that evening. But the aircraft was forced to land in Waco Regional Airport after experiencing turbulence, said SkyWest Airlines.

Severe thunderstorms in Forth Worth, Texas were believed to have impacted the flights path, the National Weather Service reported.

Five of the 32 people on board  including 29 passengers and three crew members  were injured and taken to the local hospital.

The victims are said to have suffered non-life-threatening injuries, McLennan County Offices emergency management coordinator Ryan Dirker told The Independent.

Dirker confirmed passengers on board the aircraft were left stranded in Waco and were still in the airport waiting for a replacement flight at 10 p.m. on Sunday night. He did not disclose whether those injured were passengers or crew.

The rest of the folks, a great majority of them, are still at the airport trying to figure out next steps, he told local news outlet, the Springfield News-Leader.

SkyWest flight 5690, operating as United Express from Springfield, MO to Houston, landed safely at Waco Regional Airport after experiencing turbulence, a spokesperson told KXXV.

Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital. SkyWest and United are making sure the injured customers get the care they need and are working to line up new transportation options for everyone on this flight."

Interim director of aviation Michael A. Reisman said the plane would remain in Waco for a day or so to allow for mechanics to inspect it.

Two other American Airlines flights were forced to divert to Waco because of the extreme weather conditions, said Reisman.

The aircraft landed at the Waco Regional Airport shortly before 6:30 p.m., according to data from the flight tracking website FlightAware. It was in the air for 1 hour and 40 minutes.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
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A Southern California tenant says her landlord hid spy cameras in her bedrooms smoke detectors and secretly recorded her while she was naked and engaging in intimate situations, according to federal court filings obtained by The Independent.

After downloading the illicit footage, the landlord allegedly shared the unauthorized videos with numerous associates  among them a male porn star he foisted on the tenant in hopes of surreptitiously capturing footage of them together.

In a civil complaint filed February 27, the woman, who is identified in court papers only as Jane Doe, accuses Bond Nichols, a 74-year-old father of three, of violating her fundamental right to privacy, contending the tawdry scheme caused her severe emotional distress, anxiety, and mental anguish.

open image in gallery Jane Doe rented a room in Long Beach, California, a port city of 450,000 roughly 25 miles south of Los Angeles ( Getty Images )

Nichols admitted to everything when confronted by Doe, the complaint states. He did not respond on Monday to emails, voicemails, and texts seeking comment. The case against Nichols is a civil one and there is no indication he is facing any criminal action.

Jane Does nightmare began in September 2018, when she rented a bedroom with en suite bath from Nichols in his 3,000-square-foot Long Beach residence, via Roomies.com, her complaint states. Long Beach is a coastal city of 450,000 roughly 25 miles south of Los Angeles, and is home to the second-largest port in the United States.

The complaint describes Nichols as a real estate mogul who owns numerous properties, and rents out rooms as well as entire homes using the Roomies.com platform. Doe kept her room locked, and had the only set of keys to it, according to the complaint.

open image in gallery When Jane Doe returned from vacation, she says she found the lock on her bedroom door had been changed ( Getty Images )

About three weeks into Does rental, Nichols started making comments to Jane Doe about her body and asked her if she would consider trading personal favors for rent, the complaint goes on. Jane Doe brushed him off. At first she merely thought he was simply acting like a degenerate old man. But when the comments continued and she noticed several young women come to the Property and enter his bedroom, she realized Nichols comments were not a joke.

That November, Doe told Nichols she would be leaving for a two-week vacation, to which the complaint says he replied, seemingly out of nowhere, You know I would never put a camera in you[r] room right?

Unnerved by Nicholss odd statement, Doe changed the lock on her bedroom door before going away, according to the complaint. But, it continues, while Doe was out of town, Nichols contacted her and said there was a leak in her bathroom. In order to fix it, Nichols told Doe a locksmith would have to unlock her door, the complaint continues. Upon her return, Doe found the lock had been changed outright, the complaint alleges.

Doe moved out in December 2018, when she found a place closer to work, according to the complaint. More than six years later, in February 2024, a friend of Nichols informed Doe that Nichols had installed smoke detectors with cameras in them in her room, and that Nichols cameras recorded Jane Doe naked and engaging in intimate situations with third parties, the complaint states.

open image in gallery The videos surreptitiously recorded by Jane Does landlord were shared among numerous people, according to her lawsuit ( AFP via Getty Images )

The friend, who is named in the complaint but did not respond to The Independents requests for comment, told Doe that Nichols had shown him the videos, which were forwarded from the smoke detector cameras to Nicholss phone and email. Nichols also showed the videos to an unknown number of friends and third parties, the complaint states.

A short time later, Doe confronted Nichols about his actions, according to the complaint, which says Nichols directly admitted to Jane Doe that he secretly installed the surveillance cameras, took the Illegal Videos and showed the Illegal Videos to his friends.

Recently, Jane Doe learned that Nichols sent the Illegal videos to a male pornographic star and secretly tried to arrange for a meeting between Jane Doe and this individual so he could secretly record them, the complaint contends.

The videos captured [Does] personal, private and compromising moments, in a space she rightfully believed to be comfortable, safe, and private, according to the complaint, which calls Nicholss conduct extreme and outrageous, and beyond the bounds of human decency. It says she has since suffered severe emotional distress anxiety, shock, embarrassment, loss of self-esteem, disgrace, humiliation, powerlessness, sleeplessness, and loss of enjoyment of life, and has sought professional counseling and treatment to deal with these injuries.

Doe is asking a judge to hand down an injunction blocking Nichols from further distributing the videos, and seeks a minimum of $150,000 for each violation, as well as punitive, actual, and liquidated damages, plus attorneys fees.

Last year, an Indiana man was hit with felony voyeurism charges over allegations that he installed a hidden smoke detector camera in his girlfriends daughters bedroom, having already been caught once filming her as she got out of the shower. A few months prior, a North Miami Beach landlord was arrested when his tenant, who rented a room in the home with her two children, discovered the smoke detectors in her bedroom contained hidden cameras. In June 2024, a Louisiana man was arrested on 11 counts of video voyeurism for allegedly using a smoke detector camera to spy on his childrens nanny in the bathroom.

On Monday, First Lady Melania Trump was in Washington, D.C. to lobby for the Take it Down Act, a bipartisan anti-revenge porn bill that passed the Senate last month.
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Some of the anti-abortion activists pardoned by President Donald Trump are already planning a new wave of civil disobedience, according to a report.

The president issued pardons in January to activists who had broken into and blocked access to abortion clinics.

The anti-abortion group LiveAction recently held an online event, where a number of the activists released from federal prison said they would take up their efforts to close the remaining clinics available in the U.S., according to Politico.

Herb Geraghty, from Pittsburgh, entered a Washington abortion clinic in 2020 to stop its operations and urge patients not to end their pregnancies. He served 17 months of a 27-month sentence before getting a pardon that he tried to reject.

Get out there, whether its outside the clinic or inside, or wherever you need to be to actually prevent unborn childrens lives from being taken, Geraghty said during the event, Politico reported.

He told the outlet that he was traumatized by his time in prison but that it had been worth it and that hes still committed to nonviolent direct action in service of the pro-life cause.

open image in gallery Supporters of the religious right march through Washington, D.C., to protest abortion during the 2025 March for Life. A group of anti-abortion activists pardoned by Donald Trump are planning a new wave of events, according to a report ( Middle East Images/AFP via Getty )

Following the pardons, the FBI and Department of Justice dropped a number of investigations into threats against abortion clinics. A new memo was also issued outlining how enforcement against such threats would decrease. Congress is also moving to repeal the legislation that got Geraghty and others in legal jeopardy. Trump had branded himself as the most pro-life president in history.

Theres actual lives being saved every minute you are committing the crime, Geraghty told Politico regarding the activists unlawfully entering abortion clinics. Every minute that a rescuer is inside the building, they are not killing babies.

Others who received pardons said they are planning on entering clinics stealthily or by force to rescue fetuses. New guidance from the Department of Justice states that officials shouldnt discipline such actions apart from under extraordinary circumstances. Those include significant aggravating factors, such as death, serious bodily harm, or serious property damage.

Activists are now pushing for state laws to give them similar rights.

Get out of our way and let citizens defend children in a way that maybe you arent willing to do, Jonathan Darnel said during the event. He was sentenced to 34 months in prison for use of force and physical obstruction at a Washington abortion clinic in 2020.

If youre a Christian police officer, a pro-life police officer, you need to commit in your heart not to arrest rescuers that are defending children, leave them be, even if it costs you your job, he added. If youre not willing to protect the children yourself, let us do it.

open image in gallery The president issued pardons in January to activists who had broken into and blocked access to abortion clinics ( PA Wire )

Geraghty, Darnel and others received time behind bars for violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act. The Trump administration has also taken action to dismiss with prejudice charges against activists blocking clinics in Ohio, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to Politico. Dismissing with prejudice means that another administration cant bring the charges back up.

One individual shut himself in the bathroom at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Philadelphia for more than three hours, forcing the rescheduling of almost 50 appointments, many of which were not for abortion services. Another group had their charges dropped after pretending to be patients to get into a clinic in northeast Ohio where they disrupted more than two dozen appointments.

Federal court records state they forcefully grabbed a patients body and told her not to go through with the abortion.

The FBI has told some clinics that theyre dropping investigations into threats against them.

A Preferred Womens Health Center operates several clinics in North Carolina and Georgia. Its executive director, Calla Halle, told Politico that the new policy from the Department of Justice will be a catalyst for more protesting and more aggressive actions.

Protesters seem to know that theyre not going to be held accountable, she added.

The lying, the harassment, the intimidation, its definitely amping up, said Halle.
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President Donald Trump will deliver the first joint congressional address of his second presidency on Tuesday evening.

Trumps speech isnt technically considered a State of the Union address  that comes next year, after hes been on the job for longer  but theres no distinguishable difference for anyone watching at home.

The House chamber will be packed with lawmakers, and the presidents arrival announced in a booming voice by the sergeant-at-arms, triggering cacophonous applause.

Almost no detail is left to chance in these situations.

So heres an idea of what to look and listen for:

Where is Elon Musk?

The most powerful people in American government are usually on the dais during an event like this. While the president addresses the nation, the House speaker and the vice president, who doubles as the ceremonial leader of the Senate, sit behind him.

However, theyve been largely overshadowed by Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur overseeing the Department of Government Efficiency and serving as a top adviser to Trump.

open image in gallery Trump listens as Elon Musk speaks in the Oval Office ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Theres no precedent for Musks operation, which has burrowed into federal agencies, led to thousands of firings and counting, and rewired how Washington works.

Special guests at presidential speeches often sit above the chamber in the gallery. Will Musk, the worlds richest person, be there  or somewhere else?

What does Trump say about Ukraine?

Its been only a few days since the most dramatic encounter in the Oval Office in recent memory. Trump welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to solidify a partnership involving critical minerals, only for a deal to fall apart after Trump and Vice President JD Vance laced into Zelenskyy over a perceived lack of respect.

Now the future of U.S. support for Ukraine, which has been fending off a Russian invasion for three years, is increasingly in doubt.

You either make a deal or we are out, Trump told Zelenskyy.

open image in gallery The most dramatic encounter in the Oval Office in recent memory ( AFP via Getty Images )

Will Russia try to press its advantage on the battlefield? Does Zelenskyy patch things up with Trump? Will fragile U.S. relationships with European allies deteriorate further?

There are no clear answers right now. But Tuesdays speech will be a high-profile opportunity for Trump, a Republican, to explain his vision for the war and his approach to foreign policy.

How do lawmakers behave?

Presidential speeches to Congress have become rowdier affairs. Rep. Joe Wilson, a South Carolina Republican, famously shouted You lie! at President Barack Obamas address to Congress in 2009, and decorum hasnt improved much since then.

President Joe Biden got into his own back-and-forth with Republicans, and Trump is known for deviating from his script with attempts to stir outrage among his opponents.

How will Democrats respond? Sometimes their protests have been quiet, such as when women wore white, the color of the suffragette movement, to previous events. But at a time when Democratic voters have been eager for their representatives to be more aggressive, its possible that they become more vocal.

Reaction from Republicans is more predictable. Expect them to try to outdo one another with their embrace of the president.

Does Trump spell out a legislative plan?

Trump has demonstrated his desire to push the limits of presidential power during his second term in office, but there are some things that he still needs congressional help to accomplish.

The president wants spending cuts, border security funding and tax cuts  a politically sensitive combination at a time when Republicans have only slim majorities in the House and the Senate. The party will need almost complete unanimity to move forward.

So far, Trump has followed his typical approach of playing one side off against the other, sometimes endorsing the House plan for one massive piece of legislation and sometimes supporting the Senate strategy of breaking the proposals into multiple bills.

Dont expect a lot of details from the president  thats not something that usually happens in speeches like this, regardless of who occupies the Oval Office. But Trump could reveal more about his goals or prod lawmakers to work faster. Given the power that Trump has over the party, any remark could reshape the debate.

Which version of Trump shows up?

The president is in his element when hes delivering freewheeling remarks, bouncing from topic to topic in what he likes to call the weave.

But thats not usually how these kinds of speeches go. Theyre often carefully scripted, the kind of monologue that Trump might label BORING in a post on Truth Social if he were watching it on television.

How long will Trump stick to the teleprompter this time? And how much does he veer off track?

A hint could be Trumps speech at the Republican National Convention last summer, when he accepted the partys presidential nomination. He started off subdued, even somber, as he shared the story of his assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania.

But the appeal for national unity eventually gave way to a flood of grievances more typical of Trumps stump speeches.
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A meeting between Ukraines leader Volodymyr Zelensky and President Donald Trump became heated this week  but their relationship began long before the Oval Office row.

The first time Trump spoke to Zelensky was in July 2019 when he tried to pressure the new leader to dig up dirt on Joe Biden ahead of the 2020 election. It was a 2019 phone call that eventually sparked an impeachment.

On Friday, their meeting started out with cordialities before Vice President JD Vance told Zelensky to show more gratitude toward Trump, before the president himself began shouting.

Youre gambling with the lives of millions of people, Trump berated Zelensky. Youre gambling with World War III.

With that, Trump scrapped plans to sign an agreement that would have allowed the U.S. to access Ukraines rare earth minerals, a deal the U.S. president had said would have helped move the war toward a conclusion. The blowup cast new doubt on the future of U.S. support for Kyiv in fending off Russias invasion.

open image in gallery Trump and Zelensky in the Oval Office at the White House on February 28 ( Getty Images )

A look at the evolution of Trump and Zelenskys relationship over the years:

Perfect phone call

In July 2019, Zelensky was anxious for a meeting with Trump at the White House, one of the Ukrainian leaders top foreign policy priorities at the time.

During a 30-minute call, Trump dangled the possibility of a face-to-face meeting. But he also suggested that future U.S. military support for Ukraine might be contingent on its leader helping investigate business dealings there by Hunter Biden, the former vice presidents son.

The elder Biden was competing for the Democratic presidential nomination, and Trump seemed to want to weaken him 15 months out from Election Day.

Trump denied wrongdoing and began referring to his exchange with Zelensky as a perfect phone call. Even Zelensky later insisted that he faced no blackmail.

But Trump was impeached by the Democratic-controlled House in December 2019 on abuse of power and obstruction of justice charges, only the third American commander in chief to be in that situation. He was acquitted by the Senate.

Russias war in Ukraine

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, triggering the biggest conflict on the European continent since World War II.

Since then, the U.S. has provided more than $65 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. The Biden administration made steadfast military and political support for Zelenskys country a centerpiece of his foreign policy.

As the war raged, the Biden White House staunchly defended continuing to provide support to Ukraine, even as some Republicans began grumbling about so much funding for a war that had no end in sight.

open image in gallery Zelensky thanked every American in a speech to Congress in December 2022

In a speech to Congress in December 2022, Zelensky thanked every American for supporting his country.

Your money is not charity, he said then. Its an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way.

Trump, then campaigning for his second term, said repeatedly that Russia would never have invaded Ukraine if hed been president and that hed have no trouble solving the conflict.

Upon taking office, he upended years of U.S. policy by dispatching negotiators to Saudi Arabia to meet with officials from Russian President Vladimir Putins government, and also began hammering out the minerals deal that he and Zelensky had planned to sign on Friday.

Trump meets with Zelensky ahead of Election Day 2024

Last September, Zelensky accompanied Biden to a Pennsylvania ammunition factory to thank the workers producing some of the most critically needed munitions for his countrys fight with Russian ground forces.

A few days later, he traveled to Trump Tower in Manhattan and discussed ending the war. In comments to Fox News Channel afterward, Trump said of the fighting, It should stop and the president wants it to stop, meaning Zelensky.

And Im sure President Putin wants it to stop and thats a good combination, Trump added. Zelensky invited Trump to visit Ukraine, to which Trump responded, I will.

That trip came up again Friday, when Vance told Zelensky, You went to Pennsylvania and campaigned for the opposition.

Zelenskys September trip was not billed as political, though, and Trumps election opponent was Vice President Kamala Harris, not Biden. Still, Pennsylvania is a battleground state and some congressional Republicans at the time accused Democrats of using Zelenskys visit to bolster Harris politically.

Trump calls Zelensky a dictator, then suggests he didnt

Last December, Trump met with Zelensky again during a visit to Paris to attend the reopening of the Notre Dame cathedral. It was a hastily arranged three-way meeting set up by French President Emmanuel Macron, who was trying to push the president-elect to maintain support for Ukraine in its defense against Russias invasion.

As president, Trump has publicly prodded Zelensky that he had better move quickly to negotiate an end to Russias war in Ukraine, or risk no longer having a country to lead.

On his social media site, Trump decried Zelensky for not organizing an election to decide if he should remain in power  an idea backed by Russia  calling him a  dictator without elections.

He also suggested that Ukraine was responsible for Russias invasion, but later conceded that Russia was the aggressor.

Before this week, Zelensky had been to the White House four times  all during the Biden administration. When the Ukrainian leader announced he was coming to Washington and was ready to sign a minerals deal, Trumps tone got more conciliatory.

He called Americas support for Ukraine against Russias invasion a very worthy thing to do. And, when pressed about having called Zelensky a dictator, Trump responded: Did I say that? I cant believe I said that. Next question.

It all served to make Fridays blowup all the more spectacular.
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Elon Musk shared his support for the US leaving NATO and the UN on Saturday night and was joined in the cause by Utah Sen. Mike Lee.

The head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) took to X to write I agree to a post stating Its time to leave NATO and the UN

Musk is joined by several Republican lawmakers, such as Lee, who have questioned U.S. membership of NATO.

Lee, who has criticized NATO for quite some time, has said that the alliance is a great deal for Europe but a raw deal for America. He has suggested that US resources are being used to defend Europe while doing little to protect America.

Get us out of NATO, Lee wrote on X on Saturday.

Musks statement comes as the Trump administration is making clear that it may turn its back on its traditional allies. That includes Americas future in NATO.

Lee said on X that it was a good time to leave the alliance. Trump has on many occasions pushed European nations to spend more on defense, arguing that the US is carrying too heavy a burden to keep the alliance safe.

US Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) speaks during Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett's Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing for Supreme Court Justice in the Hart Senate Office Building on October 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. He has suggested that the US should leave NATO ( Getty Images )

Musk, the richest person in the world, appears to have significant sway in the Trump administration, joining the president for a cabinet meeting and press conferences in the Oval Office. His support for the U.S. to depart NATO may be an indication that the idea is taking hold in the White House.

The US leaving the alliance would significantly change the national security of what has been known as the West. European leaders have shared their concerns regarding Trumps commitment to the alliance, specifically about Russia and its invasion of Ukraine.

Even as Lee and Musk call for the U.S. to depart the alliance, Trump has continued to speak to NATO allies, welcoming U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House in the past week. But he also had a blowup with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday as Vice President JD Vance accused Zelensky of not showing enough gratitude to the U.S.

Zelensky has long argued that Ukraine should be allowed to join NATO as a security guarantee against Russia.

Just days after his inauguration, Trump said the U.S. was protecting members of the alliance, but they were not protecting us. The president once again pushed for NATO members to spend five percent of their GDP on defense, a level far above the current two percent goal and a level that no member state, including the U.S., currently satisfies.

Last year, Trump said he would urge Russia to do whatever the hell they want to any NATO member which failed to meet spending targets  completely disregarding the alliances Article 5 that an attack on one is an attack on all. The article has only been used once following the 9/11 attacks on the U.S. in 2001.

The alliance currently has 32 members  30 European nations and the US and Canada.
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Mia Love, the first Black Republican woman in Congress, is now battling terminal brain cancer, her daughter, Abigale, said in a recent update on X.

Many of you are aware that Mom has been fighting GBM brain cancer. Sadly her cancer is no longer responding to treatment and the cancer is progressing, the post read in part.

Abigale said that their family is concentrating on enjoying the time that they have left with their mother. Love has been married to her husband, Jason, since December 1998. The couple has four children together.

In 2015, Love became the first Black woman to represent Utah in Congress. She served two terms before losing her seat in 2018 to former Salt Lake City mayor Ben McAdams by around 700 votes. Following that defeat, Love became a commentator on CNN. During her time in the House of Representatives, Love represented suburban Salt Lake City.

open image in gallery Mia Love pictured with her family in a photo that accompanied her daughter's post on X ( X/Mia Love )

Upon her loss, President Donald Trump infamously mocked her saying: Mia Love gave me love and she lost. Too bad. Sorry about that, Mia, as he took credit for the defeats of members of his own party.

In her concession speech, Love offered a blistering rebuke of Trump.

The presidents behaviour towards me made me wonder: what did he have to gain by saying such a thing about a fellow Republican, said the then 42-year-old. It was not really about asking him to do more, was it? Or was it something else? Well Mr President, well have to chat about that.

She added: This election experience and these comments shines a spotlight on the problems Washington politicians have with minorities and black Americans  its transactional, its not personal.

You see, we feel like politicians claim they know whats best for us from a safe distance, yet theyre never willing to take us home. Because Republicans never take minority communities into their home and citizens into their homes and into their hearts, they stay with Democrats and bureaucrats in Washington because they do take them home  or at least make them feel like they have a home.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump famously mocked Mia Love upon her election defeat in 2018, saying she showed him no love ( AP )

Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, got her start in politics when she was elected mayor of Saratoga Springs in 2009, making her the first Black woman to be elected mayor in the state.

Abigale Love has asked anyone with memories of her mother to contact the family at MiaLoveMemories@Gmail.com.

Abigales post was retweeted by Utah Governor Spencer Cox.

Mia Love has served Utah with integrity, and her strength and grace continue to inspire us. Our hearts are with Mia and her family during this difficult time. Utah stands with you, he wrote.

Love revealed in 2023 that she was diagnosed with glioblastoma a year earlier. At the time of the diagnosis, Love said she was given 10 to 15 months to live.

In 2024, Loves family started a crowdfunding campaign to help her to pay for a clinical trial at Duke University. She later told CNN that the initial treatment appeared to be working.
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Attorney General Pam Bondi has again proclaimed that America will get the full Jeffrey Epstein files after the highly-anticipated first phase contained no major new allegations about the convicted sex offender nor his associates.

The nations top law enforcement officer publicly released about 200 pages of files Thursday, including a series of flight logs from Espteins private jet, a partly-redacted contacts list, and a fully blacked-out list of masseuses. Later Thursday, the U.S. Department of Justice accused the FBI of withholding thousands of pages of Epstein documents, as Bondi wrote a letter to the bureaus newly-confirmed director Kash Patel demanding that all material related to the disgraced financier be turned over to her office by Friday morning.

On Saturday, Bondi told Fox News host Mark Levin that Americans will get the full Epstein files thanks to Donald Trump being the most transparent president.

New York City SDNY (Southern District of New York), theyre sitting on thousands of pages of documents regarding Epstein. Thousands, thousands. And of course, youve seen the very strong letter, she said.

open image in gallery U.S. Attorney General spoke with Fox News' Mark Levin about the Epstein files over the weekend ( Fox News )

We will get everything. We will have it in our possession. We will redact it, of course, to protect grand jury information and confidential witnesses. But the American people have a right to know. And Donald Trump is the most transparent president in our nations history.

Bondi also promised that documents surrounding the assassinations of former President John F Kennedy and civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr will also be declassified.

So not only will America get the full Epstein files, they will get JFK, they will get Martin Luther King, she said.

The hyped declassification of all of the Epstein documents was met with backlash from conservatives after Bondi teed up their release Wednesday and told Fox News that the details will make you sick.

A cohort of MAGA influencers elaborately unveiled binders containing The Epstein Files: Phase 1 at the White House Thursday before the DoJ made the documents publicly available online.

open image in gallery MAGA influencers paraded their Epstein files binders on Thursday outside the White House ( AP )

Much of the material released was previously published material from the prosecution of Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins girlfriend and close confidant, two years after the disgraced financier took his own life while in a Manhattan jail cell in August 2019 while awaiting trial on new charges of trafficking teenage girls.

Over the years, thousands of pages of records have been released through lawsuits, Epsteins criminal dockets, public disclosures and Freedom of Information Act requests.

In January 2024, a court unsealed the final batch of documents collected as evidence in a lawsuit filed by Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre.

It was released in an unprofessional manner with paid, partisan social media influencers to curate their binders for us, right-wing media pundit and conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer tweeted Thursday. I cant trust anything in the binder. Neither should you.

Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna, head of a new congressional task force to declassify federal secrets, added: THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!

open image in gallery Jeffrey Epstein and his longtime confidant an girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell in an undated photograph ( PA )

Later Thursday, Bondi instructed Patel to conduct an immediate investigation into the bureaus failure to deliver the full set of the Epstein files and a two-week-long investigation launched into why her orders were not followed.

The FBI director took to X and wrote: There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned  and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued.

If there are gaps, we will find them. If records have been hidden, we will uncover them.

The Independent has reached out to the FBI and DoJ for more information.
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Longtime vaccine skeptic Robert F Kennedy Jr has urged people to get the measles jab after a deadly outbreak in Texas  having initially downplayed the rapid spread of the infectious disease.

Writing in a Fox News op-ed Sunday, the freshly-confirmed Department of Health and Human Service secretary championed the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, touting its efficacy against the deadly virus.

Measles outbreak is call to action for all of us, reads the title, with the standfirst stating: MMR vaccine is crucial to avoiding potentially deadly disease. In the articles opening line, RFK Jr stated he is deeply concerned about the recent measles outbreak.

He reflected on the days before the first measles vaccine was licensed for public use in the U.S. in 1963.

Prior to the introduction of the (MMR) vaccine in the 1960s, virtually every child in the United States contracted measles, RFK Jr citing that from 1953 to 1962, there were an average of 530,217 confirmed cases and 440 deaths  a one in 1,205 cases fatality rate.

open image in gallery RFK Jr, attending a cabinet meeting last week, appeared to champion the MMR vaccine as Texas battles with the rapid spread of measles ( EPA )

The Kennedy scion said that it is the governments responsibility to ensure that accurate information is relayed about vaccine safety and efficacy, and pledged to make vaccines readily accessible for all those who want them.

He added: Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

RFK Jr did, however, emphasize that the decision to vaccinate is a personal one.

According to the latest figures from the Texas Department of Health and Human Services released Friday, 146 measles cases have been identified since late January  a majority of whom appear to be unvaccinated.

An unvaccinated school-age child in Lubbock marked the first death from the highly contagious virus last week and twenty other people have been hospitalized.

open image in gallery A sign reading 'measles testing' is seen as an outbreak in Gaines County, Texas last Tuesday ( REUTERS )

After the death Wednesday, the nations top health official appeared to downplay the situation in Texas and described the outbreak as not unusual.

There have been four measles outbreaks this year in this country. Last year there were 16. So it's not unusual," he said during Donald Trumps first cabinet meeting. We have measles outbreaks every year.

RFK Jrs latest remarks appear to mark a U-turn from his previous peddling of vaccine skepticism and conspiracy theories, including his promotion of the debunked idea that vaccines cause autism.

Along with his comments about vaccines and autism, the HHS secretary has made other historic inflammatory remarks, including suggesting in January 2022 that Anne Frank was in a better situation when she hid from Nazis than Americans were under Covid-19 mandates.

He also baselessly claimed that Covid-19 was a bioweapon that targets Caucasians and Black people while sparing Ashkenazi Jewish and Chinese people.

Spreading Covid-19 misinformation resulted in Meta deactivating his Instagram account in 2021.

open image in gallery RFK Jr testifies inhis Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions confirmation hearing on January 30, 2025 in Washington, DC ( Getty Images )

During his Senate confirmation hearings last month, he attempted to clean up his previous remarks and insisted he is not anti-vaccine, but pro-safety.

RFK Jr denied Oregon Senator Ron Wydens accusations that he embraced conspiracy theories, quacks, charlatans, especially when it comes to the safety and efficacy of vaccines, and noted his own children are vaccinated.

Vaccine hesitancy was already a concern before the Covid-19 pandemic and worsened during the vaccination campaigns, experts told the Washington Post.

According to a survey from the University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg Public Policy Center last June, nearly one in four respondents believed that the MMR vaccine caused autism.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has said there is no evidence linking the measles vaccine and autism.

In August 2024, the findings from an Annenberg Science and Public Health survey suggested that more than a quarter of Americans believe that Covid-19 vaccines have caused thousands of deaths.
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Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the Pentagon to stop offensive cyberoperations against Russia, according to one current official and two former officials briefed on the matter who spoke to The New York Times.

The order was handed down before Fridays Oval Office blowup between President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The measure appears to be an attempt to encourage Russia to join talks to end its war of aggression in Ukraine. The scope and duration of the order remain unclear as the difference between offensive and defensive cyberoperations is not always apparent.

But it remains important to retain access to Russian networks to understand Putins intentions when talks begin, and to follow the arguments between Russians regarding what issues to focus on and what could be given up to achieve a peace deal.

The ex-officials told the paper that its common that civilian leaders order temporary holds on military operations during negotiations to avoid them being derailed. But stepping back from offensive cyberoperations remains a risk, as it counts on Russian President Vladimir Putin to also put a hold on what some call the shadow war against the U.S. and its traditional European allies.

Hegseths order was initially reported by the cybersecurity publication The Record.

Those traditional allies have said that their backing of Kyiv remains steadfast amid Trump at times openly supporting Putins version of events. Russia has carried on attempting to get into U.S. networks, including during the start of the Trump administration, U.S. officials have said, according to The Times.

However, such efforts are only part of a wider Russian effort to destabilize the West. Ransomware attacks against U.S. hospitals, cities, and infrastructure have increased over the past year. Intelligence officials have said that such attacks have come from Russia in what are essentially criminal acts ignored or supported by Russian intelligence agencies.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth speaks during a meeting with Saudi Minister of Defense Khalid bin Salman at the Pentagon on February 24, 2025 in Arlington, Virginia. The secretary has ordered the Pentagon to cease offensive cyberoperations against Russia ( Getty Images )

Sabotage in Europe has also spiked in the last year to include the cutting of communications cables, mystifying explosions, and assassination plots emanating from Russia, such as against the chief executive of the largest arms maker in Germany. The U.S. has played a massive part in fighting back against these sabotage efforts, but that support could now end.

Many of such efforts are operated from the British Government Communications Headquarters as well as by the Canadians. The U.K. intelligence agency is best known for breaking the Enigma codes during the Second World War. They may carry those efforts while the U.S. pivots to focus on China.

Russia operated an influence campaign during the 2024 presidential campaign, reports by U.S. intelligence agencies during the Biden administration reveal. U.S. Cyber Command has conducted secret operations to take on those attempts in recent election cycles, The Times noted.

However, the Trump administration has begun picking apart efforts by the F.B.I. and other agencies warning about the dangers of Russian propaganda and meddling. The Pentagon order issued by Hegseth would put a pause on any future attempts to hamper Russian influence campaigns.

Appearing on ABCs This Week on Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined the need to get Russia to the negotiating table, but he also acknowledged that it remains unclear if Putin is ready or willing to enter into an agreement to end the war.

Youre not going to bring them to the table if youre calling them names, if youre being antagonistic, he told the network. Thats just the presidents instincts from years and years and years of putting together deals as someone whos in business.

Rubio became defensive when asked why the U.S. was easing the pressure on Russia, such as by removing language from a U.N. resolution which stated that Russia is the aggressor in the war in Ukraine. The Trump administration went against Americas traditional allies, and sided with the likes of Belarus, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, as well as other states with authoritarian regimes.

If this was a Democrat that was doing this, everyone would be saying, well, hes on his way to the Nobel Peace Prize, Rubio, known as a Russia hawk during his time in the Senate, told ABC. This is absurd. We are trying to end a war. You cannot end a war unless both sides come to the table, starting with the Russians, and that is the point the president has made. And we have to do whatever we can to try to bring them to the table to see if its even possible.
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Protests have erupted outside Tesla stores across the United States, as demonstrators speak out against CEO Elon Musk and his advocacy for government spending cuts in collaboration with President Donald Trump.

The demonstrations reflect a growing wave of discontent in both North America and Europe regarding Musk's influential role in Washington.

Critics of both Trump and Musk aim to discourage the purchase of Tesla cars and tarnish the automakers reputation.

Liberal groups have been instrumental in organizing these anti-Tesla protests, aiming to rally opposition to Musk's Department of Government Efficiency and energize Democrats still reeling from Trump's victory in November.

Nathan Phillips, a 58-year-old ecologist from Newton, Massachusetts, who participated in the Boston protest, said: "We can get back at Elon. We can impose direct economic damage on Tesla by showing up at showrooms everywhere and boycotting Tesla and telling everyone else to get out, sell your stocks, sell your Teslas."

Musk, guided by Trump, is advocating for significant reductions in federal spending and workforce, saying that Trump's victory grants them a mandate to restructure the US government.

Officials from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have swiftly gained access to sensitive databases, initiated thousands of federal job cuts, terminated contracts, and shut down agencies, including the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

Musk's critics say his actions defy Congress's power to control the US budget and present a host of ways for him to enrich himself.

open image in gallery Protesters outside a Boston Tesla dealership ( AP )

Musk leads several other companies, notably SpaceX, which conducts launches for NASA and the intelligence community, and the social media platform X.

Tesla and the White House did not respond to emailed requests for comment Saturday.

More than 50 demonstrations were listed Saturday on the website Tesla Takedown, with more planned later in March from coast to coast in the United States along with England, Spain and Portugal.

News reports showed demonstrations in recent days in U.S. cities including Tucson, Arizona; St. Louis; New York City; Dayton, Ohio; Charlotte; and Palo Alto, California.

Some Tesla owners have also reported their vehicles vandalized with spray painted swastikas amid what Jewish groups and observers fear is a rise in antisemitism.

open image in gallery Demonstrators are arrested by NYPD officers during a protest outside a Tesla showroom

Federal prosecutors charged a woman in connection with a string of vandalism against a Colorado Tesla dealership, which included Molotov cocktails being thrown at vehicles and the words Nazi cars spray painted on the building.

Saturday's demonstration in Boston had a festive atmosphere, with a brass band playing music as protestors carried signs and chanted. Several of the signs mocked Musk and DOGE, with one reading: Stop Elon and his despicable Muskrats.

This government led by Trump and Musk, its gone completely off the rails and we are here to stop that, said Carina Campovasso, a retired federal worker. And I hope they listen.

About 300 demonstrators protested at a Tesla dealership in New York City on Saturday. Police said nine people were taken into custody but did not elaborate on the charges they faced.

Tesla's share price has fallen by nearly a third since Trump took office, though it is still higher than it was a year ago.

Musks current net worth is an estimated $359 billion, according to Forbes, which calculated his 2024 net worth as $195 billion.
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A special program to help autistic students successfully navigate careers in math and science now faces an existential threat thanks to the Trump administrations bid to curtail diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in American institutions.

Keivan Stassun, a world-renowned physicist and astronomer at Vanderbilt University, is the founding director of the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation at Vanderbilts School of Engineering, which has been focused on finding ways to foster neurodiverse talent in higher education and the workforce. But Donald Trumps focus on ending diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and its slash-and-burn approach to pausing research grants puts Stassuns work at risk.

The tragedy is that our project could not be seen as woke DEI by anyone: it is workforce development for the nation's science and technology enterprise, filling the large talent gap that tech companies are facing in AI, cybersecurity, and all forms of engineering, Stassun said in a text message. We had a large set of corporate partners involved, and a large network of the biggest engineering schools partnered as well.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump signed a litany of executive orders to restrict diversity, equity and inclusion programs. ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

In 2024, Stassun received a MacArthur Fellowship, often called a genius grant, for his efforts. For him, the work is also personal: He is the father of an autistic son, named Jamie. The center also includes many people who are autistic themselves, like Dave Caudel, its associate director.

Stassun told The Independent that as recently as January, the Frist Center was told it would receive a $4 million grant from the National Science Foundation to create a model for including neurodivergent people across engineering schools in the United States.

The grant was supposed to be part of the Broadening Participation in Engineering program, which focuses on including a diverse array of people in engineering. But because the grant was not officially activated before Trump put in place an executive order limiting DEI programs and before Elon Musk began the process of eliminating various programs as part of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the grant was suspended.

Stassun said he understood the suspension came as a result of the program having bad DEIA words such as neurodiversity, inclusion, disabilities and accessibility.

The Frist Center is preparing to lay off several staff, unfortunately including folks who are autistic (by our mission, our staff includes a high representation of ND folks), Stassun told The Independent.

Neurodiversity and neurodivergence does not only refer to people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It also includes people diagnosed with disabilities such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourettes syndrome, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and obsessive compulsive disorder.

Stopping DEI efforts has become an animating force among the American right in recent years. On his first day in office, Trump signed an executive order that required federal agencies to terminate all equity-related grants and a separate executive order that mandated all federal contractors to certify that they do not promote DEI. A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction just days after Trump signed both executive orders.

In recent years, companies, universities and non-profit groups have made an effort to hire neurodivergent people and accommodate them in higher learning. But Trumps efforts to restrict DEI initiatives have already trickled into the private sector, with some shareholders pushing back.

Stassun said this is not the only grant that has been halted. The Frist Center hoped to receive a $3 million grant through the NSFs INCLUDES program  which meant to make the nations STEM fields more reflective of the nations population  for its outreach to neurodivergent middle schoolers and high school students to get them ready for STEM majors in college.

The same goes, Stassun said, for a $500,000 grant from the NSFs Research Experiences for Undergraduates program, meant to provide undergraduate students training in science and technology careers.

Altogether, Stassun said, the canceled grants equal about $7.5 million.

We will have to RIF [reductions in force] staff and most importantly this workforce development work to enable a large and underutilized segment of the American talent pool won't happen, he told The Independent. I firmly believe that everyone everywhere would regard this as a great thing for America, nothing ideological about it. Just that the D word and the I word and the A word are all involved.

A spokesman for the National Science Foundation said the grants are continuing to be reviewed.

NSF is working expeditiously to conduct a comprehensive review of our projects, programs and activities to be compliant with the existing executive orders, spokesperson Michael England said in an email.

The move is also in line with DOGEs restricting of research grants from the U.S. Department of Education to find the best programs to help students with disabilities transition to adulthood. One grant sought to learn the effectiveness of programs like Charting my Path for Future Success, but the money was canceled once the Trump administration took office.

Stassun cautioned that restricting these grants would not save the government much money  but would greatly impact the communities these programs serve.

Firing 10 percent of the people saves less than 1 percent of the budget, but makes it very hard for the agency to do its job and causes the loss of major benefits for our nation, he said. Our $4m grant alone would have ultimately enabled tens of thousands of autistic and other students to become engineers for companies like SpaceX and many more.
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Donald Trump has said the U.S. should prioritize curbing illegal migration rather than worrying about Putin, days after the presidents explosive row with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelesnky.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform Sunday evening for his first comments on the Russia-Ukraine war since the president and Vice President JD Vance accused the Ukrainian leader of gambling with World War III in a widely criticized at the White House press conference on Friday.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country - So that we dont end up like Europe!, he wrote.

Earlier Sunday, Trump shared a 600-word commentary from Michael McCune, an Arizona-based wedding DJ, who praised him for playing Russia and Ukraine like a master chess player.

open image in gallery Donald Trump has returned to his anti-migrant rhetoric ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Trump played both sides like a master chess player. In the end, Zelenskyy will have no choice but to concede, because without U.S. support, Ukraine cannot win a prolonged war against Russia, McCune wrote. And once U.S. companies have mini g operations in Ukraine, Putin will be unable to attack without triggering massive international consequences.

He concluded: In this game of chess, hes 10 moves ahead of everyone.

Trump and Zelenskys Oval Office talks began more cordially Friday, before they devolved into a furious shouting match, ending with the Ukrainian president leaving without signing the minerals deal to secure U.S. help in ending the war with Russia.

The meeting began with Zelensky, who had flown to Washington to seek security guarantees, emphasizing the urgency of his visit. Trump again claimed that the Russia-Ukraine war would never have happened if I was president.

After Vance goaded Zelensky, asking him to show more gratitude toward Trump, the U.S. commander-in-chief interjected: Youre gambling with World War Three, and what youre doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country thats backed you far more than a lot of people say they should have.

open image in gallery US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky clashed in a very public fallout ( Getty Images )

After the heated exchange, a White House official said Trump was uninterested in reviving the agreement between both countries, while the president is considering axing military aid to Ukraine, according to the Washington Post.

Zelensky has refused to apologize over the Oval Office spat but said his relationship with the president is salvageable.

On Sunday evening, Zelensky doubled down on the significance of U.S. support for Ukraine after meeting with British and European leaders.

There will be diplomacy for the sake of peace. And for the sake of us all being together  Ukraine, all of Europe and definitely, definitely America, he said.

The evening prior, Trump boasted that immigration had fallen to historic lows during his tenure and declared that the invasion of our country is OVER.

The month of February, my first full month in Office, had the LOWEST number of Illegal Immigrants trying to enter our Country in History  BY FAR!, he added, without citing the source of his claims. Thanks to the Trump Administration Policies, the Border is CLOSED to all Illegal Immigrants.
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President Donald Trumps confrontational Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signifies a shift in United States foreign policy to one that largely aligns with the Kremlin, according to a spokesman for the Russian government.

Since taking office, Trump appears to be taking a friendlier position toward Russia than his predecessors, potentially changing the geopolitical dynamic that has largely existed since World War II.

Trump has questioned the U.S.s support of Ukraine in the war, pushed blame away from Russia and onto Ukraine and, last week, publicly berated Zelensky during an Oval Office meeting.

The new administration is rapidly changing all foreign policy configurations, Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the Russian government, said to state television on Sunday. This largely aligns with our vision.

open image in gallery Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the Russian Federation, is the latest Kremlin official to issue a positive statement about Trumps friendliness toward Russia ( via REUTERS )

During the Oval Office meeting, Trump and Vice President JD Vance angrily accused Zelensky of not thanking the U.S. for its support and claimed Zelensky was gambling with World War III by refusing to make concessions to Putin.

European leaders quickly assembled to affirm their support for Ukraine and denounced Putin.

The U.S. once played the same role as other European countries, but it's unclear what the path forward will be with Trump choosing to cozy up to the Kremlin.

Peskov said there is still a long way to go to restore relations between Russia and the U.S. but if the political will of the two leaders, President Putin and President Trump, is maintained, this path can be quite quick and successful.

open image in gallery Donald Trump berates Volodymyr Zelensky during a tense Oval Office meeting on brokering peace between Ukraine and Russia ( AFP via Getty Images )

Other leaders in the Kremlin have praised Trump for taking a harsher stance against Zelensky and Ukraine. After insinuating that Zelensky was a dictator, the deputy chair of the Russian Security Council said Trump was 200 percent right.

After Trump blamed Ukraine for instigating the war, Sergey Lavrov, the minister of foreign affairs for Russia, acknowledged Trump as the first, and so far, apparently, the only Western leader to recognize what Russia believes is a root cause of the escalated tensions.

This is already a signal that he understands our position," Lavrov said in February.

Peskovs confirmation that Trump is adopting a position that aligns with the Kremlin means there could be a tangible shift in official policy soon.

As of now, the U.S. still has economic and trade sanctions on Russia as well as individual sanctions on those deemed responsible for the invasion of Ukraine.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said there could be potentially historic economic partnerships that Washington and Moscow could engage in once the war was over after the two nations met in Saudi Arabia last month. Putin has also said that Russia is open to economic partnership, including developing the Arctic and mining rare earth minerals.

A senior Kremlin official told the Washington Post that Moscow was astonished by the tremendous change associated with Trumps recent takeover. They said they welcomed Trumps pragmatic, rather than enemy-like approach.
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United States tariffs on Canada and Mexico are scheduled to take effect on Tuesday.

However, President Trump will determine whether they will be set at the proposed 25 per cent, according to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

The tariffs could affect several automakers and auto suppliers, which have plants in Mexico and Canada.

Many export hundreds of thousands of vehicles to the US every year.

Among the vehicles that could be hit by the tariffs are popular models like Ram pick-ups, the Chevy Silverado and Santa Fe SUVs.

Michelin tyres and auto parts like seat belts and air bags could also be hit.

Here is a list of the car makers and suppliers likely to be affected:

Audi

Volkswagen's VOWG_p.DE Audi plant in San Jose Chiapa, Mexico, makes the Q5, employing more than 5,000 people. Nearly 40,000 vehicles were exported to the US in the first half of 2024, according to Mexico's automobile association.

BMW

BMW's BMWG.DE plant in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, produces the 3 Series, 2 Series Coupe and M2, with nearly all vehicles going to the US and other markets worldwide.

Ford

Ford F.N has three plants in Mexico. In the first half of 2024, it exported just under 196,000 cars to North America. Of those, 90 per cent went to the US, according to Mexico's automobile association.

open image in gallery A Chevy Silverado ( Amee Reehal )

General Motors

GM GM.N imported roughly 750,000 vehicles from Canada or Mexico in 2024 to the US, with most made in Mexico, GlobalData says. They include the Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra full-sized pickups, and mid-sized SUVs. The Mexican plants also build two of its new EVs.

GM's three plants in Canada produce electric vans, the Chevrolet Silverado Heavy Duty truck, and the V8 engine and dual clutch transmission.

Honda

Honda Motor 7267.T sends 80 per cent of its Mexican output to the US market. It warned on November 6 that it would have to consider shifting production if the US imposed permanent tariffs on Mexican imports.

JAC Motors

JAC Motors 600418.SS assembles JAC brand vehicles via a joint venture with Mexican firm Giant Motors.

Kia

South Korea's Kia Corp 000270.KS has a factory in Mexico that makes its own vehicles and some Santa Fe SUVs for its affiliate Hyundai Motor 005380.KS for export to the United States.

Mazda

Mazda 7261.T exported around 120,000 vehicles from Mexico to the United States in 2023, but said it may reconsider further investments if tariffs are imposed.

open image in gallery Nissan makes Sentra, Versa and Kicks models for the US market at two plants in Mexico

Nissan

Nissan Motor 7201.T has two plants in Mexico where it makes the Sentra, Versa and Kicks models for the US market. It produced nearly 505,000 vehicles in Mexico in the first nine months of 2024.

Stellantis

Stellantis STLAM.MI operates assembly plants in Mexico making Ram pick-ups and vans, as well as the Jeep Compass mid-sized SUV. The group owns two assembly plants in Canada: one where it makes Chrysler models, and another scheduled to resume output of a new Jeep model this year.

Toyota

Toyota Motor 7203.T builds its Tacoma pick-up truck at two plants in Mexico, and sold more than 230,000 of them in the U.S. in 2023, or 10% of total sales in that market.

open image in gallery Volkswagens 2025 Taos

Volkswagen

Volkswagen's factory in Puebla, Mexico, made nearly 350,000 cars in 2023, including the Jetta, Tiguan and Taos, all for export to the U.S. In Canada, Volkswagen is building a battery gigafactory in Ontario, with output to begin by 2027.

Autoliv

Sweden's Autoliv ALIVsdb.ST, the world's largest maker of airbags and seat belts, employs around 15,000 staff in Mexico.

Michelin

Tyre maker Michelin MICP.PA has two plants in Mexico  Queretaro and Leon  and three in Canada.

Yanfeng

Chinese seat maker Yanfeng Automotive Interiors supplies automakers including General Motors and Toyota from its plants in Mexico.

Others

Other part makers with plants in Mexico include Italian tyremaker Pirelli PIRC.MI, Italian premium brakes maker Brembo BRBI.MI and Italy's Eurogroup Laminations EGLA.MI.

U.S. automaker Tesla encouraged its Chinese suppliers to set up plants in Mexico in 2023 to supply the factory it was planning to build in the country from early 2025, but its plans have not materialized.
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President Donald Trump has shared a Truth Social post of commentary from a Tuscon-based wedding DJ who praised him for playing Russia and Ukraine like a master chess player.

Michael McCune of Arizona has found viral fame after Trump shared excerpts from a Facebook post he shared Friday following the showdown in the Oval Office with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump shared McCunes words with his nine million Truth Social followers Sunday.

McCune is from Benson, Arizona, a town outside of Tucson, and has a wedding DJ business, according to his Facebook profile. He also describes himself as a lifelong practitioner of martial arts, strategy and philosophy.

The DJ, who frequently posts his political musings on his Facebook page, theorized that both Trump and Vice President JD Vance knew exactly what Zelensky was going to do and claimed the wartime leader would use the meeting to make a power play.

open image in gallery Trump shared some of Michael McCunes words on his Truth Social platform ( @realDonaldTrump/Truth Social )

Both Trump and Vance anticipated this, McCune said in the 600-word post, which outlined why he believed Zelensky was outmanouvered.

Trump shared the final part of McCunes analysis.

Now, Zelenskyy will have no choice but to back down and accept Trump's terms, McCune concluded. But heres the genius partTrump is actually protecting Ukraine without dragging the U.S. into war.

By negotiating a mineral deal, Trump ensures that Americans will be involved in Ukraines mining industry. This prevents Russia from launching an invasion, because attacking Ukraine would mean endangering American livessomething that would force the U.S. to respond.

open image in gallery Michael McCune has found viral fame after Trump shared excerpts from a Facebook post he shared Friday following the showdown in the Oval Office with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky ( AFP via Getty Images )

Trump played both sides like a master chess player. In the end, Zelenskyy will have no choice but to concede, because without U.S. support, Ukraine cannot win a prolonged war against Russia, McCune said.

His post finished by telling his followers not to underestimate the president. In this game of chess, hes 10 moves ahead of everyone, McCune added.

The Independent has contacted McCune for comment.

McCune thanked Trump for sharing his thoughts in a follow up post and agreed with another Facebook user that it was an honor.

His profile has since been inundated with comments both praising and criticizing him.
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President Donald Trump on Monday has hit out again at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksy by accusing the wartime leader of having no interest in a settlement to his countrys years-long fight against Russian invading forces after the Ukrainian president said he does not see the war ending for a long time.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform to attack Zelensky in a post claiming that the United States will not put up with his sentiments for much longer after Zelensky said he expects to maintain a relationship with the U.S. despite the his fraught relationship with Trump, which exploded in a meeting at the White House on Friday.

He told reporters in London that a deal to end the war is still very, very far away but said Kyivs relations with Washington will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship.

I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America to keep defense assistance flowing, he said.

Trump turned on Zelensky during a meeting at the White House on Friday ( AFP via Getty Images )

But Trump did not appear to agree, writing on his social media site that Zelenskys words represent the worst statement that could have been made by the Ukrainian leader.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing, said Trump, who referenced Zelenskys statement to world leaders in London that aid from America was necessary to continue his countrys fight against invading forces from Russia.

The American presidents latest broadside against his countrys putative ally comes just days after he and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky over his supposed lack of gratitude for the more than $100 billion in U.S. defense aid his nation has received since Russia began the latest phase of the war against Ukraine in February 2022.

Trump accuses 'disrespectful' Zelensky of gambling with WW3

Zelensky, who had come to Washington on Friday to sign a mineral rights deal touted by the Trump administration, was asked to leave the White House after a media availability with Trump and his senior staff devolved into an Oval Office shouting match that ended with a vulgar, grievance-filled rant from President Donald Trump and taunts about Zelenskys supposed ingratitude from Vance.

Zelensky left the White House roughly an hour after the emotional eruption, cutting short talks that were supposed to cement an economic relationship between Washington and Kyiv and create a mechanism to repay the billions in American military aid that has been sent to Ukraine since 2022.

From there, Zelensky then jetted to London, where he received a warm reception from U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and was granted a coveted audience with King Charles III at Sandringham House, the monarchs private country estate in Norfolk.

Starmer pledged to develop a coalition of the willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and guarantee a peace settlement as part of a plan discussed by leaders at Lancaster House on Sunday, with outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in attendance.

King Charles meets Ukraine's President Zelensky at Sandringham

The prime minister also announced a 1.6 billion ($2.03bn) finance deal which will allow Ukraine to buy more than 5,000 missiles which will be made by French defense and aerospace giant Thales Group in Belfast.

The increased commitment to Ukraines defense from the U.K. and other western allies comes as Trump has moved to pivot the United States to a position in foreign policy spheres that appears to be aligned with Russia against the democracies of the west.

In a separate Truth Social post over the weekend, Trump wrote that Americans should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country.

But Trump declined to explicitly say whether he supports pausing American defense aid to Kyiv when addressing reporters at an event to mark new investment in American semiconductor manufacturing. He also declined to respond directly to a related query on his reaction to statements from the Kremlin alleging that Americas foreign policy is now aligned with Russias, though he mused aloud that it takes two to tango with respect to any agreement to end the war.

You're going to have to make a deal with Russia, and you're going to have to make a deal with Ukraine. You're going to have to have the assent, and you're going to have to have the consent from the European nations, because I think that's important, and from us, I think everybody has to get into a room, so to speak, and we have to make a deal, and the deal can be made very fast. It should not be that hard a deal to make. It could be made very fast, he said.

He also told reporters that in his view, Zelensky should be more appreciative because America has stuck with them through thick and thin.

We have to make a deal because there are a lot of people being killed that shouldn't be killed, he added.
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Only 4 percent of Americans back Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, as questions swirl over where Donald Trump stands on the issue.

The poll, conducted by CBS News and YouGov, found that a slim majority (52 percent) backed Ukraine, though a surprising 44 percent said they supported neither side.

It comes after Fridays disastrous meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump and vice president JD Vance in the Oval Office. The sit-down started courteously but descended into open acrimony as both Republicans demanded Zelensky show gratitude.

The president claimed Zelensky would have no power without him, berated him for gambling with millions of lives and said he could either make a deal or fight it out.

open image in gallery A new poll shows just a handful of Americans are backing Russia in the war with Ukraine. The poll's results were released after an infamous clash in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. ( AFP via Getty Images )

However, as CBS noted, the poll was conducted between February 26 and 28, prior to the press conference. The survey sampled 2,311 U.S. weighted to be representative of adults nationwide according to gender, age, race, and education.

According to the poll, 51 percent of Americans approve of Trumps handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, compared to 49 percent who do not approve.

Respondents are largely split on which way Trump has leaned in the conflict with 46 percent saying that Trumps actions and statements have favored Russia, compared to 43 percent who think Trump has treated both sides equally.

Only 10 percent think Trump has sided with Ukraine.

In a statement shortly after Fridays meeting, the president said that Zelensky was not ready for peace. Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the Ukrainian president had disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office.

open image in gallery Zelensky appeared on Fox News, saying he couldnt change his attitude towards Russia, who started the war in February 2022 by invading Ukraine ( Getty Images )

I have determined that President Zelensky is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations, Trump wrote. I dont want advantage, I want PEACE.

He can come back when he is ready for Peace," he added.

Zelensky responded shortly after in his own online post: Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.

The CBS poll also found that a majority of Republicans have negative views on Russia, with 32 percent regarding them as unfriendly, and 27 percent consider them an enemy. However, a high percentage of the GOP voters sees Russia in more positively.

The poll found 41 percent of Republicans consider Russia an ally or friendly to the U.S.
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James Harrison, who helped save more than two million babies by donating blood over 1,100 times across six decades, has died at 88.

According to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, Harrison, also known as the man with the golden arm, had the precious antibody in his blood that was used to make a lifesaving medication called Anti-D, given to mothers whose blood is at risk of attacking their unborn babies.

Harrison died in his sleep at Peninsula Village Nursing Home on the NSW Central Coast on 17 February.

He began donating in 1954 at 18 and continued regularly until his retirement in 2018 at 81. According to Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, he has helped save the lives of more than 2.4 million Australian babies.

open image in gallery James Harrison began donating in 1954 at 18 and continued regularly until his retirement in 2018 at 81 ( Australian Red Cross LifeBlood )

Harrisons daughter, Tracey Mellowship, fondly remembered him as a generous soul with a wonderful sense of humour.

James was a humanitarian at heart, but also very funny, Ms Mellowship said.

In his last years, he was immensely proud to become a great grandfather to two beautiful grandchildren, Trey and Addison.

As an Anti-D recipient myself, he has left behind a family that may not have existed without his precious donations.

She added: He was also very proud to have saved so many lives, without any cost or pain. It made him happy to hear about the many families like ours, who existed because of his kindness.

He always said it does not hurt, and the life you save could be your own.

Harrisons rare antibodies were crucial in developing Anti-D, the treatment that has protected millions of newborns from Rhesus disease (or Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn)  a condition in which a pregnant womans blood attacks her unborn babys red blood cells, potentially leading to brain damage or even death.

open image in gallery File. James Harrison, aged 20. In 1999 Harrison was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia  one of the countrys most prestigious honours  for his extraordinary dedication to the Lifeblood and Anti-D program ( Australian Red Cross Lifeblood )

It occurs when a mother has RhD-negative blood, while her baby inherits RhD-positive blood from the father. If the mother has been sensitised to RhD-positive blood  often during a previous pregnancy  her immune system may produce antibodies that attack the babys blood as a foreign threat.

James was a pioneer of our Anti-D programme. More than 3 million doses of Anti-D containing James blood have been issued to Aussie mothers with a negative blood type since 1967, Lifeblood said in a statement on their website.

He has changed my world and Im sure hes done that for many other families, making him a very incredible human, said Rebecca Ind, a recipient of Harrisons blood donations during and after her pregnancy 12 years ago.

In 1999 Harrison was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia  one of the countrys most prestigious honours  for his extraordinary dedication to the Lifeblood and Anti-D programme. His kindness leaves a remarkable legacy, and he has put the challenge out to the Australian community to beat it, Lifeblood said in the statement.

open image in gallery At 14, Harrison needed life-saving blood donations after major chest surgery. At 18, despite his fear of needles, he kept his promise to give back ( Australian Red Cross Lifeblood )

I hope its a record that somebody breaks, because it will mean they are dedicated to the cause, Harrison said of his last donation at the age of 81.

It becomes quite humbling when they say, oh youve done this or youve done that or youre a hero, Harrison said at the time. Its something I can do. Its one of my talents, probably my only talent, is that I can be a blood donor.

At 14, Harrison underwent major chest surgery and relied on the generosity of blood donors to survive. Determined to give back, he vowed to donate as soon as he was eligible  and at 18, he kept his promise, despite a fear of needles.

More than a decade later, doctors discovered that his blood contained a rare antibody essential for producing Anti-D injections. Committed to helping others, Harrison willingly switched to plasma donation, ensuring his contributions could save as many lives as possible.

James was a remarkable, stoically kind, and generous person who was committed to a lifetime of giving and he captured the hearts of many people around the world, Lifeblood chief executive officer Stephen Cornelissen was quoted as saying by Australias Nine News.

It was James belief that his donations were no more important than any other donors, and that everyone can be special in the same way that he was.

James extended his arm to help others and babies he would never know a remarkable 1173 times and expected nothing in return.

Robyn Barlow, coordinator of Australias Rh Program  designed to prevent Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn (HDFN)  said she had been friends with Harrison for nearly 60 years after first recruiting him as a donor.

He made my job very easy because he was so keen to donate all the time, Barlow told 7NEWS.com.au.

I never had to worry about him  I never had to call and say: when youre coming, nothing like that, he was there standing in front of me.

In an interview with NPR in 2015, Harrison said: I was always looking forward to donating, right from the operation, because I dont know how many people it took to save my life.

Several reports pointed out that doctors were not entirely sure why and how Harrison developed this rare blood antibody, though they suspect it may be linked to the transfusions he received at 14 after his surgery.

Every batch of Anti-D that has ever been made in Australia has come from James blood, Jemma Falkenmire, of the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood (then known as Australian Red Cross Blood Service), told CNN in 2015. And more than 17 per cent of women in Australia are at risk, so James has helped save a lot of lives.

Fewer than 200 people in Australia donate Anti-D, yet their contributions help an estimated 45,000 mothers and babies each year, according to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood.

Scientists from WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) in Melbourne, in collaboration with Lifeblood, are working on a project called James in a Jar to grow the Anti-D antibody in the lab. Using blood and immune cells from Harrison and other donors, the team has successfully recreated and cultivated the antibody, according to Lifeblood.

This breakthrough could one day help prevent Haemolytic Disease of the Foetus and Newborn, benefiting pregnant women not just in Australia but worldwide, the statement said.
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The Australian Navy rescued a Lithuanian rower caught in tropical cyclone Alfred during his solo venture crossing the Pacific Ocean.

Aurimas Mockus, a 44-year-old adventurer, was 740km off the coast of Mackay in Central Queensland when he got caught in the path of the category one cyclone with winds gusting at 130kmph.

The vessel was attempting to row 12,000km from San Diego to Brisbane when it sent out distress signals after running into trouble on Friday night.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) immediately initiated a search and rescue operation after receiving the emergency distress signal, the navy said.

The AMSA tasked the Cairns-based Challenger search and rescue aircraft to find the adventurer in the troubled water but was initially unsuccessful, with the vessel reporting heavy seas and 80kmph winds.

open image in gallery The Australian Defence Force shows sailors from the Royal Australian Navy ship HMAS Choules rescuing Lithuanian long-distance rower Aurimas Mockus ( AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE/AFP via )

The weather conditions later eased but the Coral Sea was still within the category-two cyclones influence on Sunday, with winds up to 100kmph, Australian authorities said.

Mr Mockus was rescued by the Australian Navy ship HMAS Choules on Monday morning after two days, the AMSA spokesperson said. "The ship on its way back to Australian shores, she added.

V Adm Justin Jones, chief of joint operations, in a statement said the sailor had been rescued and was safely onboard HMAS Choules undergoing a medical assessment.

Mr Mockuss shore team on Sunday night confirmed the sailor was not injured. According to the traveller, he has not suffered any serious injuries, is shovelling water from the boat and is asking for help as soon as possible," the team said in a statement.

Direct communication with the rescuers is maintained at all times.

Mr Mockus had set off on his journey in October 2024 and was days away from reaching his goal after rowing 70 nautical miles per day. He was bracing the "maximum power" of the cyclone on Thursday, while attempting to join a short list of ocean rowers to make the Pacific crossing solo nonstop.

In 1983, Brit Peter Bird became the first person to achieve the feat, followed by John Beeden in 2015 and Australian Michelle Lee in 2023, Australian Associated Press reported.
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People are being told to get out now as Australias southeastern coast braces for a rare landfall of a tropical cyclone, churning towards Queensland and prompting warnings across two states.

Alfred, classified as a Category 1 system on Monday, is intensifying off Queenslands coast and is expected to be one of the most destructive in the region in decades.

The cyclone is forecast to strengthen to a Category 2 system early morning on Tuesday, before making landfall between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast late Thursday or early Friday.

If Alfred makes landfall as projected, it will be the first cyclone to directly impact Brisbane since Nancy in 1990.

Alfred is about 450km northeast of Brisbane, moving southwest at 20kmph, according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

Communities from Sandy Cape south to Grafton, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Byron Bay, are in the watch zone and millions of people across Queensland and New South Wales are being urged to prepare for the worst.

While Queensland is in the cyclones path, New South Wales is expected to experience gale force winds over the next two days.

Alfred is bringing dangerous conditions to southeast Queensland and northern NSW. We are expecting very heavy rainfall, particularly along the coast, senior meteorologist Laura Buchan said. Strong winds and large waves will also create hazardous surf conditions and we could see some coastal erosion.

Steven Bernasconi, manager of hazard preparedness at the Bureau of Meteorology, said the forecast is unusual. We do not often have tropical cyclone watches and warnings in the NSW jurisdiction, he said.

Forecasts indicate potential rainfall of 300-600mm, with some areas possibly receiving up to 700mm. Wind gusts are expected to exceed 120kmph, accompanied by large waves that may lead to coastal erosion and flooding.

Queensland premier David Crisafulli urged residents to please be prepared and ready canned food and bottled water. It is important that people take the event seriously, they stay up to date with warnings, he said.

We're dealing with a very heavily populated part of the state, a state that hasn't seen a cyclone for many years, in fact, many decades, get this close to the coast.

Authorities in flood-prone areas have issued evacuation warnings ahead of the cyclone's arrival, particularly in low-lying areas.

Shane Chelepy, the state disaster coordinator, warned island communities east of Brisbane to leave now or it will be too late.

Authorities have suspended all CityCat and ferry services in Brisbane until further notice and people have been warned to avoid unnecessary travel.
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Police are investigating a case of attempted sabotage involving the water supply on a holiday island in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Sweden.

The entire island of Gotland could have been left without water had the possible sabotage not been discovered, Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet Daily reported on Monday, citing anonymous sources.

The area has been cordoned off and technicians are investigating.

"We are aware of an incident that was reported yesterday but it is being handled by police," a Swedish Security Service spokesperson told Reuters.

A police spokesperson declined to comment.

Gotland is Swedens largest island with a coastline spanning 800 kilometres. The Pippi Longstocking TV series was entirely filmed in the islands main town of Visby - which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

open image in gallery Crew members patrol the Baltic Sea to protect undersea cables and pipelines from sabotage ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

The report comes just days after the suspected sabotage of an undersea telecoms cable was discovered just off Gotland. It is not suggested the incidents are related.

Finnish operator Cinia said it had detected problems on its C-Lion1 fibre-optic link connecting Finland and Germany and later confirmed the cable was damaged even as data traffic continued to flow.

Finland's National Bureau of Investigation said a preliminary investigation was launched. Swedish police are also investigating because the breach occurred in Sweden's economic zone.

Swedens Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said the government was being briefed and that damage to any undersea infrastructure was particularly concerning amid the current security situation.

No suspects had been identified.

Sweden's coast guard deployed a vessel to the area as multiple seabed cables have been damaged in recent months, however, some were ruled accidental.

The Baltic Sea region in general is on alert after a series of power cable, telecom and gas pipeline outages since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.

The European Commission said it would propose boosting surveillance of undersea cables and establishing a fleet of vessels available to carry out repairs in emergencies.
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Kieran Culkin won the Oscar for best supporting actor Sunday at the 97th Academy Awards, completing a sweep of the category that followed his dominance in television awards last season.

The award, for portraying the chaotic but endearing Benji in Jesse Eisenbergs A Real Pain," marked his first win and nomination.

Culkin thanked his manager, his mom, Eisenberg and his wife, Jazz Charton  taking the moment to remind his wife that he wants more kids.

About a year ago, I was on the stage like this, and I very stupidly, publicly, said that I want a third kid from her because she said if I won the award, she would give me the kid," he said, recalling his speech at the Emmys last January. After the show, She goes, oh, God, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid. And I turned to her and I said, really? I want four.

She said, I will give you four when you win an Oscar, Culkin, who has two kids with Charlton, said to a chorus of laughs from the audience. Jazz, love of my life. Ye of little faith. No pressure, I love you.

Culkin triumphed over nominees Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Yura Borisov for Anora and his fellow Succession alum Jeremy Strong for The Apprentice. The category was one of few with a clear favorite ahead of this year's ceremony, after Culkin picked up the Golden Globe, BAFTA, Independent Spirit Award, SAG Award and a slew of critics awards earlier this month.

Written and directed by Eisenberg, A Real Pain follows cousins  played by Culkin and Eisenberg  on a trip through Poland for a Holocaust tour to honor their late grandmother. Culkins Benji is introduced as unfiltered but quick to connect. Eisenbergs David is his rule-following, guarded foil. Oscillating between serious reflections on Jewish identity, generational trauma and mourning and the inherent comedy of mismatched relatives, Eisenbergs script deftly navigates heavy themes with humor that lands because of Culkins ability to deliver it earnestly.

Jesse Eisenberg, thank you for this movie. Youre a genius," Culkin said on stage. "I would never say that to your face. Im never saying it again. So soak it up.

It wasn't a sure bet that Culkin's Benji would make it to screens. When production on the final season of Succession ran long, Culkin considered dropping out of the film to spend time with his family. Emma Stone, last year's best actress Oscar winner whose company Fruit Tree produced the project, convinced him to stay on  by reassuring him that they could make it work without him, knowing that wasn't necessarily true.

She let me off the hook completely, Culkin told The Associated Press of his ex-girlfriend. And I think it was the moment I got off the phone that I was like Oh (expletive), Im doing this movie.

Culkins film debut came at age 7 in Home Alone, where he played the soda-slurping younger cousin of his older brother Macaulay Culkins Kevin McCallister. His first major award nomination was a Golden Globe nod for the 2002 film Igby Goes Down. But it was his turn as Roman Roy, on Succession nearly two decades later that brought Culkin widespread fandom and acclaim, including a Golden Globe and Emmy Award for the series' final season.

Sometimes people will say like, oh, youre a lot like that character. I wasn't until I did it," Culkin said in the press room after his win. But I'd like to think that I'm a little more together than that. I'd like to think that Ive figured some stuff out."

___

For more coverage of the Oscars, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/academy-awards.
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At least two people have been killed and several injured after a car rammed into a crowd on a busy shopping street in the German city of Mannheim.

One man has been arrested following the incident on a pedestrianised street, where a market had been put up for carnival season. Several people were seen lying on the ground after the incident on Monday lunchtime and an elderly woman and 54-year-old man were killed.

The suspect arrested was a 40-year-old German man from the nearby state of Rhineland-Palatinate, interior minister of Baden-Wurttemberg state Thomas Strobl said. He faces charges for two counts of murder and multiple attempted murders.

Police and prosecutors said they dont believe the suspect had any political or extremist background, adding they believe he has psychological problems.

At a press conference, the authorities said the suspect shot himself in the mouth when he was arrested and is currently being treated for his injuries in hospital.

Heavily armed police swarmed Mannheims central square Paradeplatz and cordoned off the surrounding area. Authorities also seized the car used in the incident.

open image in gallery Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany ( AP )

Police confirmed that 10 people were injured; five suffered serious wounds while another five had minor injuries. They said: No statement can yet be made about the extent and severity of the injuries in those affected.

At the press conference, police and prosecutors said earlier reports that children were in hospital following the incident were incorrect.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing a driver knocking over several pedestrians on Planken, a central shopping street in Mannheim linking Paradeplatz and the Wasserturm monument around 1km away.

The incident occurred as crowds gathered in cities across Germany for parades to mark the carnival season. A carnival market has been underway in Mannheims city centre since Thursday, with 60 food stalls and rides.

One stall holder at the market said, according to MM: It is terrible here, nobody knows what happened, you only see injured people and the dead, and you dont know what to do.

The carnival parades and markets planned for Tuesday have been cancelled and Lord Mayor Christian Specht ordered mourning flagging at the municipal service buildings. They city will host an ecumenical devotion across the Catholic and Protestant church on Tuesday at 5.30pm.

open image in gallery Ambulance vehicles are parked near the scene ( Reuters )

BILD newspaper has reported that it was a black SUV which was seen driving into the crowd.

German interior minister Nancy Faeser cancelled her participation in a street parade in Cologne due to the events in Mannheim. She would later call the incident A horror in broad daylight.

She said: In the most beautiful weather during the lunch break, when many people are outside, in the middle of a pedestrian zone. This is simply an unimaginably terrible act that happened here.

It comes just weeks after a car drove into a crowd of people in Munich, killing a 37-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter, and leading to the arrest of Farhad Noori, the Afghan asylum seeker suspected to be behind the attack.

open image in gallery Fire service and police vehicles block the road ( Reuters )

Security has been a major concern for the German population and was a hot topic in the recent German elections, which saw success for the countrys right-wing and far-right parties.

In May 2024, five people were injured and a police officer was killed in a stabbing at a rally hosted by an anti-Islam group, just 200m away from the site of Mondays incident.
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The family of a father who died during a Benidorm holiday last year are flying to Spain as they fight for answers about the hours before his death.

Father-of-four Nathan Osman, 30, died after falling 200 metres off a remote cliff on the outskirts of Benidorm, less than a day after arriving and meeting friends in September, an inquest previously heard. But his family is still searching for answers as they say Spanish authorities failed to investigate attempts to use his bank cards the day after his death.

Spanish authorities will meet with the family, who are worried others were involved in Mr Osmans death.

Mr Osmans brother Lee Evans and sister Alannah were due to fly to Benidorm Sunday to speak to police and hand over evidence they have gathered themselves.

The siblings said tracing Mr Osmans known movements suggested he had been on a video call with a friend before his phone ran out of charge. The family also identified him on public CCTV on a promenade and that he did not appear to be significantly intoxicated.

open image in gallery The British father was on holiday in Benidorm at the time ( Getty/iStock )

Owners of CCTV footage from other premises have said they will not hand over recordings without a request from the Spanish authorities, reports claim.

"We've been totally abandoned," Mr Evans told the BBC. "There's been zero investigation and we are fighting for answers."

Benidorms police have not yet responded to The Independents request for comment.

Mr Osman, of Pontypridd in Wales, arrived in Benidorm on 27 September for a last-minute trip with his friends.

Less than 24 hours after arriving and spending time with his friends, he said he would walk back to his hotel room to rest because he was tired.

The next morning, his bed had not been slept in. His body was found later that day by an off-duty policeman at the foot of the cliff.

Mr Evans said that his brother would not have gone alone to the remote location which was in the opposite direction to his hotel, adding that it would take an hour to walk there.

He had no reason to be up there, Mr Osmans brother told the BBC. "We strongly believe he was taken up there, whether it was by taxi or against his own will. And something has happened for him to be found where he was found."

After taking matters into their own hands, Alannah said they received an empty police file in which the case was closed.

Mr Osmans father Jonathan added: "They've done nothing, nothing at all. It's just a total disregard for his life in every kind of way."

The family claim their repeated enquiries into the investigations progress has been met with silence.

Mr Osmans mother, Elizabeth added: We live in a nightmare. Not knowing about that last hour or two before his death, it's eating us away.

A GoFundMe page has been launched to help return Mr Osman to Wales for a funeral.

A British Foreign Office spokesperson said: We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Spain and are in contact with the local authorities.
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Pope Francis suffered two new acute breathing crises on Monday and has been put back on ventilation, the Vatican said  showing the 88-year-olds struggle with pneumonia is far from over.

The pontiff also underwent two lung scans and is suffering from congestion in his chest.

Since he entered hospital on 14 February with a complex lung infection, no photos or videos have been released of him, in what is now the longest absence of his 12-year papacy.

Francis had inhaled copious amounts of mucus in another setback in what has become a more than two-week battle to overcome a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia.

In a late update on Monday, the Vatican said the episodes were caused by a significant accumulation of mucus in his lungs and bronchial spasms.

Two bronchoscopies were performed with the need for aspiration of copious secretions, the Vatican said.

open image in gallery The Vatican said that he had inhaled copious amounts of mucus ( AFP via Getty )

The pope remains alert and has spoken and cooperated with his doctors and nursing staff.

Earlier on Monday, Francis issued a new message from the hospital as Vatican officials begged him to let his voice be heard after disappearing from public view as he recovers.

He denounced the progressive irrelevance of international organisations to combat war as he remained at Romes Gemelli hospital.

A statement said that he was in a stable condition, was up, had breakfast and was receiving therapies after sleeping well all night long, the Vatican said.

Since entering hospital, the Vatican has provided brief, twice-daily medical updates on his condition and he has begun to sign off on documents with From Gemelli Polyclinic, in a sign that he is still working.

open image in gallery Catholics attend a nightly rosary prayer for the health of Pope Francis ( AP )

While he is recuperating out of public view, there have been growing calls for him to use his voice during a tumultuous period of global uncertainty, with one of his closest friends, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia stressing: We need men like him who are truly universal, and not only one sided.

Francis wrote a message to the Vaticans annual bioethics academy, dated 26 February, in which he lamented that international organisations are increasingly ineffective and undermined by short-sighted attitudes concerned with protecting particular and national interests.

The pope has also repeatedly called for peace between Russia and Ukraine while trying to maintain the Vaticans traditional diplomatic neutrality  and has tried to achieve a similar balancing act for Israels war with Hamas in Gaza.

Archbishop Georg Ganswein, the Vatican ambassador to the Baltics, said the faithful needed to hear his voice at a time when war is raging in Europe.

Pope Franciss voice is of vital importance for all the world because hes the only authority who speaks of peace, who condemns war, all the wars underway starting with Ukraine, la Repubblica quoted Archbishop Ganswein as saying.

The Catholic leader is susceptible to lung infections due to pleurisy he developed as a young adult, which resulted in the removal of part of one lung.

Double pneumonia, a severe infection affecting both lungs, can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to breathing difficulties.
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Pope Francis's long-awaited visit to Argentina, his homeland, appears increasingly unlikely as he battles double pneumonia.

The 88-year-old Pope's ongoing stay in Rome's Gemelli hospital, his longest as pontiff at over two weeks, has sparked concerns about his overall health and ability to travel in future.

Since assuming his position in 2013, Francis has embarked on over 45 international trips, including historic first visits to Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Myanmar, North Macedonia, Bahrain, and Mongolia.

However, the former Archbishop of Buenos Aires has never returned to Argentina  despite anticipation of a visit early in his papacy and again in 2024.

Jimmy Burns, author of Francis, Pope of Good Promise, noted the unique absence of a homecoming in Francis's papacy, unlike his predecessors.

Mr Burns said that Francis may be avoiding being seen as taking sides in Argentina's politically polarised environment.

Any visit would try and be exploited by one side or the other, and he would unwittingly fuel those divisions.

open image in gallery A photo of Francis is projected onto the Obelisco de Buenos Aires as he battles pneumonia in hospital ( AP )

Guillermo Marco, former spokesperson for the pope when he was Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, told Reuters it had been a "wasted opportunity" for Argentina. Francis, he said, had a "tango soul"  a reference to the music and dance that has its origins in the back streets of Buenos Aires.

"He would have liked to (come) if he could have made a simple trip, let's say, where he came to visit the people he loves and, I don't know, celebrate a mass for the people," said Mr Marco, who retains a close relationship with Francis.

"But he is fully aware there is a whole network of supporters and detractors who are fighting over him."

In September, the pope told journalists he had wanted to go to Argentina, saying they are my people, but that various matters had to be resolved first.

Maximo Jurcinovic, a spokesperson for the Argentine bishops' conference, said the Church was focused on praying for the pope's health and would not comment on other matters.

Mr Marco said Francis had sounded tired when he spoke to him in late January.

"He is 88 years old and then you add to those 88 years the worries and pace of life that he tries to lead," he said.

"It's like he has a willpower, a spiritual strength that God gives him that makes his body do things, but his body is already telling him: 'I can't.' That's a bit what happened to him now."

open image in gallery Francis with former Argentinian president Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner ( POOL/AFP via Getty Images )

The chorus is divided

During Franciss time as pope, the first Latin American to hold the position, Argentina has experienced recurring economic crises and political instability. The current government, led by President Javier Milei, has taken steps to stabilise the economy  but through strict austerity measures.

Mr Milei, who once referred to Francis as the devil's representative on Earth, has since reconciled with the Pope after assuming office.

Some argue that Francis should have visited Argentina regardless of the political climate. Sergio Rubin, an Argentine journalist and co-author of the papal biography The Jesuit, noted the divided opinions, stating: "There are those who say that he should have come anyway because it would have helped close the political rift a little."

Rogelio Pfirter, former ambassador to the Vatican and one-time student of Bergoglio, suggested that Francis's priority had been to promote inclusivity within the Church.

"I have no doubt that everything Argentine and the homeland itself is something that has a special place in his head and in his heart," he said.

But one of the pope's greatest legacies has been "making a papacy for everyone", Mr Pfirter said.

"From the pope's perspective, it has probably been much more important to travel to the Pacific, travel to Africa, travel to some other Latin American countries than to visit regions where the Church already has a strong position."

Many of Argentina's faithful would still have liked to welcome Francis home and remember him as Bergoglio, born in 1936 in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrants.

"That the pope has not come until now hurts me, it hurts me a little," said Claudia Nudel, at a recent mass in Buenos Aires to pray for the pope's recovery.

Silvia Leda, 70, also at the mass, said: "I would have liked him to come, but I think the most important thing is what he can do for the world."
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Pope Francis remained in a stable condition and didn't need any mechanical ventilation on Sunday, the Vatican said.

It was a sign that he had overcome the possible complications from a respiratory crisis on Friday and that his breathing function overall was improving as he recovered from pneumonia.

The 88-year-old pope did continue to receive high flow supplemental oxygen after Friday's coughing episode, which sparked fears of a new lung infection.

Doctors in their late Sunday update said Francis remained stable but again referred to the complexity of his overall condition and kept his prognosis at guarded, meaning he wasn't out of danger.

Francis, who has been in the hospital since February 14, rested, prayed in his private chapel and participated in Mass after a morning visit from the Vatican secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and his chief of staff, Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra.

The content of their talks wasn't known, but even when at the Vatican, Francis meets at least weekly with them.

He again skipped his weekly noon blessing to avoid even a brief public appearance from the hospital. Instead, the Vatican distributed a message written by the pope from Gemelli Hospital in which he thanked his doctors for their care and well-wishers for their prayers and prayed again for peace in Ukraine and elsewhere.

"From here, war appears even more absurd," Francis said in the message, which he drafted in recent days.

Francis said he was living his hospitalisation as an experience of profound solidarity with people who are sick and suffering everywhere.

"I feel in my heart the 'blessing' that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord," Francis said in the text. "At the same time, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share in body and spirit the condition of so many sick and suffering people."

Signs point to a recovery

Many signs indicated he was improving, especially after a respiratory crisis on Friday afternoon that resulted in him inhaling vomit during a coughing fit and raising the possibility of new infection.

Doctors aspirated the vomit and put him on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, a mask that pumps oxygen into the lungs.

He used the ventilation on Saturday, alternating it with just supplemental oxygen, and by Sunday no longer needed it.

Doctors also reported he had no fever or raised white blood cell levels, which would have indicated his body was fighting a new infection. The doctors had said they needed 24 to 48 hours after Friday's coughing episode to determine if there were any negative impacts on Francis' overall condition.

The passage of time and positive reports Sunday suggested he had overcome the episode successfully.

The pope, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, has lung disease and was admitted to Gemelli on February 14 after a bout of bronchitis worsened and turned into a complex pneumonia in both lungs.

Prayers continued to pour in

Francis' hospitalisation has come as the Vatican is marking its Holy Year, drawing pilgrims to Rome from all over. Many have added a pilgrimage destination to their itineraries so they can pray for Francis at the Gemelli hospital, which is around a 20-minute drive from the Vatican, longer in rush hour or on public transport.

The Rev Riccardo Fumagalli had accompanied a group of young people from Milan to Rome for the Jubilee and would have attended Francis' Angelus prayer in St Peter's Square on Sunday if he had delivered it as usual.

Instead, they went to Gemelli. "It seemed good to us to come here to express our closeness, especially of these teenagers, to be close to the Holy Father to pray for him, to pray for this moment of illness," he said.

Cancer patient Antonino Cacace was also arriving Sunday at Gemelli from Milan for his own treatment, saying he has to undergo surgery in the coming days and was counting on Francis' prayers.

"I am glad the pope is giving me help," he said. "I am on the ninth floor and he is on the 10th. I hope to meet him and see him," he said.
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Britains prime minister has no choice. In saying I do not think the US is an unreliable ally, Sir Keir Starmer is showing that hope is winning over recent experience. Whether he is being diplomatic, or naive, will be put to the test when he presents a multinational plan for peace in Ukraine to Donald Trump.

Whatever the French and British-led multinational proposals are, they will have to avoid sliding into the death trap of a ceasefire.

Starmer painstakingly avoided using the dreaded term. But its one that would delight Vladimir Putin. And it has already been used by Trump.

[Ukraine] didnt want to talk about a ceasefire. A ceasefire could take place immediately, Trump said shortly after the spectacular breakdown of his talks with Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday.

Oleksandr Morezkho, chair of the Ukrainian parliaments foreign affairs committee said, after Starmer chaired the multinational meeting, a ceasefire would only be a delayed death for us.

A ceasefire is not a peace treaty.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky, Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron at Lancaster House in London ( PA )

While being shouted down by JD Vance in the Oval Office, Zelensky tried to remind the US presidential team that Russia had violated multiple ceasefires. He pointed out that both Angela Merkel, then German chancellor, and Emanuel Macron, the French president, has assured him Putin would stick to ceasefire terms in late 2021  and then invaded a few months later.

The biggest problem is that it will be used by Putin as a tool of war. He might agree to ceasefire only when it creates conditions allowing him to destroy Ukraine maybe a little bit later, Morekho told The Independent.

Zelensky had already set off for an audience with the King at Sandringham after attending the Lancaster House summit, but he appeared to have driven home the importance of language in defence of his country.

Starmer said: We've agreed that the UK, France and others will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting. Then we'll discuss that plan with the United States and take it forward together. The purpose of today's meeting was to unite our partners around this effort to strengthen Ukraine and to support a just, and enduring peace, for the good of all of us. Our starting point must be to put Ukraine in the strongest possible position.

That does not mean a ceasefire. Putin badly needs time to retrain, rearm, and resupply his forces. So does Ukraine. But Russia is isolated, reliant on a coalition of rogue states like Iran and North Korea, has a smaller economy than Italy and is being outgunned in drone warfare by Kyiv.

Trump has not, yet, signalled whether the US will cut aid to Ukraine. He has threatened to. The UK has been quick to signal that Europe may need to fill the gap left by an even more drastic pro-Russian shift from the White House.

open image in gallery European and Nato leaders in London on Sunday ( AFP or Licensors )

So that they [Ukraine] can negotiate from a position of strength and we are doubling down in our support. Yesterday evening the UK signed a 2.2bn loan to provide more military aid to Ukraine, backed not by the British taxpayer but by the profits from frozen Russian assets. And today I'm announcing a new deal which allows Ukraine to use 1.6bn of UK export finance to buy more than 5,000 air defence missiles, Starmer said.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen insisted that we want the US to know that we are ready to defend democracy.

There was a lot of talk of providing, or thinking about, peacekeeping or protection forces for Ukraine in the event of a peace deal with Russia. But there is no peace proposal on the table that Ukraine has signed up to and therefore no peace to keep or protect.

The London conference has galvanised German chancellor Olaf Scholz to declare that we need to financially and militarily support Ukraine and his outgoing administration is trying to negotiate a series of packages that would increase spending on defence and on Ukraine.

Starmer laid out a course towards a peace deal. Not a ceasefire. It is at odds with every signal that has come from the Trump administration, but it could allow the White House to remain the lead in talks with Putin  if Trump were to agree to strengthening a nation hes accused of gambling with world war three.

The prime minister said there had been an agreement at Lancaster House that we will keep the military aid flowing and keep increasing the economic pressure on Russia.

Second, we agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security, and Ukraine must be at the table. Third, in the event of a peace deal, we will keep boosting Ukraine's own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasion. Fourth, we will go further to a coalition of the willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace, he added.

Trump has said that Ukraine wont get all its territory back from Russia and that the US would not be part of a security guarantee in any peace deal either.

If Europe can present Trump with a cast iron European plan for the safety of Ukraine and protection for its sovereignty  he may endorse their efforts.

But that assumes, as Starmer hopes, that the US under the 47th president remains a reliable ally. A sure sign that it is not would be to demand a ceasefire from Ukraine ahead of talks. Russia wants one urgently but it would be suicide for Kyiv. And Trump knows it.
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Emmanuel Macron has said that France and Britain are proposing a limited month-long ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure.

But Kyiv has raised reservations about any end to the fighting without security guarantees for the country against any further aggression from Vladimir Putin.

Speaking more cautiously, Britain said there were several possible proposals on the table for a possible Ukraine ceasefire. European countries, led by Britain and France, are looking at options for a peace proposal including Ukraine after last week's Oval Office rupture between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

"There are clearly a number of options on the table," Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman said. "I'm just not getting into a running commentary on the options."

In an interview given on his way to the summit, Mr Macron raised the possibility of a one-month ceasefire, although so far there has been no public endorsement from other allies.

"Such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce," French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Monday. "And that's when real peace negotiations could start."

European ground troops would only be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase, Mr Macron said in the interview published in Le Figaro.

Mr Starmer hosted a summit of European leaders in London on Sunday and said European leaders had agreed to draw up a Ukraine peace plan to present to the United States.

Mr Zelensky, asked if he was aware of the plan mentioned by Macron, told reporters in London: "I'm aware of everything."

open image in gallery Keir Starmer hosts European leaders for talks on peace in Ukraine, 2 March 2025 ( Getty Images )

Speaking to the BBC after the summit, Sir Keir said: Weve now agreed that the United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then well discuss that plan with the United States.

He added: The UK and France are the most advanced in the thinking on this, and thats why President Macron and I are going to be working on this plan, which well then discuss with the US.

That is a step in the right direction. This is not an exclusion  the more the better in this. But we need to move to a quicker, more agile way of going forward, and I think that is a coalition of the willing states.

Also attending the meeting was French president, Emmanuel Macron; outgoing German chancellor, Olaf Scholz; Canadian prime minster, Justin Trudeau; Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sanchez; the Italian prime minister, Giorgia Meloni; and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission.

Here are the five biggest other takeaways from the European leaders meeting:

Coalition of the willing

Speaking after the summit, Sir Keir said the UK and other nations across Europe were ready to form a coalition of the willing to defend Ukraine. It marks the strongest show yet of European unity over the conflict, but it remains unclear which nations are fully committed to the plan.

While Britain and France have expressed strong support, the prime minister added that only one or two others were on board.

Still hope for Trump backup

Turning to the US, Sir Keir reaffirmed his vision of a transatlantic alliance to support Ukraine and secure peace in the country, saying after the summit: We will work with President Trump to ensure a strong, just, and lasting peace that ensures Ukraines future sovereignty and security.

open image in gallery Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump argue in the Oval Office, 28 February 2025 ( AFP via Getty Images )

His words followed a clearer call at the summit, where he said Europe must do the heavy lifting, echoing calls from the Trump administration for EU nations to boost its spending on Ukrainian security.

But to support peace in our continent, and to succeed this effort must have strong US backing," he added, setting out on a clear mission to find compromise with Trump who has previously signalled he is not willing to provide any backstop.

More military aid to Ukraine

At the summit, leaders agreed to continue providing Ukraine with substantial military aid, with Sir Keir saying: In the event of peace deal we will keep boosting Ukraines own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasions.

The prime minister later announced an historic 1.6 billion deal in the UK to help Ukraine achieve peace through strength. It will provide the nation with 5000 air defence missiles, the Ministry of Defence says, whilst also creating 200 jobs in Northern Ireland.

Many nations ready to give troops

The so-called European coalition will intensify planning now, with real urgency, Sir Keir said at the conference. The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground, and planes in the air, together with others.

In a statement after the meeting, he added that many of us expressed readiness to contribute to Ukraines security.

open image in gallery French president Emmanuel Macron, UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian Volodymyr Zelensky, 2 March 2025 ( Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street )

However, so far the UK and France are alone in their commitment to put troops on the ground in Ukraine. Others, such as Spain, Poland and Germany, have all previously ruled out the possibility  but whether ongoing talks has changed minds remains to be seen.

Ukraine must not see another weak deal

Reiterating the need for a robust deal, Sir Keir pointed to the 2014 Minsk agreements which sought to end the Donbas war. In February 2022, Putin said that the terms negotiated in the discussions no longer existed, blamed Ukraine for their collapse, and launched Russias full scale invasion of the country just days later.

Perhaps pointing his comments at the US administration, the prime minister said: We must not repeat the mistakes of the past when weak deals allowed President Putin to invade again.

There must be no talks on Ukraine without Ukraine, he also added.
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Share prices in European weapons manufacturers have surged after Sir Keir Starmer pledged to "develop a coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine amid a push for a peace deal.

Shares in Britains BAE Systems jumped by 19 per cent at one stage in Monday morning trading while Germanys Rheinmetall gained 14 per cent, Frances Thales increased 16 per cent and Italys Leonardo was up 10 per cent.

Weapons manufacturers have long said they are ready to increase production should European governments start placing orders, while defence bosses have continually called for an increase in spending to reflect the heightened security threat posed by Vladimir Putins Russia following his invasion of Ukraine, which is now in its fourth year.

At a conference on Sunday, Sir Keir told world leaders, including Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky, that Europe was at a crossroads in history. He has already signalled his willingness to send British troops, alongside French forces, to Ukraine in a peacekeeping capacity.

Shares in aerospace companies with significant defence revenues also rose on Monday.

Airbus rose by three per cent, Frances Safran increased by 2.7 per cent, and Rolls-Royce gained six per cent, hitting a record high after the British jet engine manufacturer recorded strong results last week.

Other stocks linked to the defence sector were also enjoying sharp gains on Monday, with defence technology group QinetiQ up nine per cent in the FTSE 250, followed by Babcock International with a seven per cent rise and Chemring up four per cent.

Among small-cap stocks, there were big share increases for helmet and gas mask maker Avon Technologies - up seven per cent - while Cohort, which is a specialist in sonar, torpedo and communications, surged 10 per cent.

Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: A show of cooperation among leaders at the weekend in London has reinforced expectations that military budgets will swell in a new era of collaboration to counter the Russian threat.
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Following the death of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church will now elect its new leader, in a process virtually unchanged in 800 years.

The system is known as the Papal Conclave, and is a democratic process with a strong emphasis on working through multiple rounds of voting until a clear consensus emerges.

Under the current rules, only cardinals under the age of 80 are allowed to cast a vote.

Officially candidates for pope need only be male and Catholic, although in reality Pontiffs have only ever been chosen from the ranks of cardinals for centuries.

Theres no age limit on who can become pope, but Francis was 76 when he took up the position, and held it until his death, aged 88.

Benedict before him was 78, and was pope for only eight years before his surprise retirement aged 85.

When will the Conclave begin?

The popes funeral took place on Saturday, 26 April, starting nine official days of mourning called the novemdiales, which ended on May 5.

According to Vatican rules, the process of electing a new pope should begin between 15 and 20 days after the pontiffs death. The Vatican confirmed the conclave will begin on Wednesday, May 7.

It is the camerlengo, a cardinal selected by the pope, who is tasked with organising the Conclave election process.

open image in gallery Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell is the camerlengo, a cardinal who is tasked with organising the Conclave ( Vatican Media )

The current camerlengo is Cardinal Kevin Farrell, an Irish-born American Catholic prelate who has held the position since 2019.

His other responsibilities include sealing the door to the popes study and bedroom with a traditional red ribbon.

How does Conclave work?

To begin the Conclave process, there is a special morning mass, after which the 135 cardinals of voting age would gather inside the exquisitely decorated Sistine Chapel  home of all the Papal Conclaves since 1858.

New rules for the election of a pope were introduced in 1996 under Pope John Paul II, and the process has largely remained unchanged since then. After the death of a pope, cardinals hold a series of meetings called general congregations to discuss the future of the Church.

open image in gallery 133 cardinals will join the conclave ( Getty )

While all 252 cardinals can participate in these meetings, only 133 are under the age of 80 and have been well enough to travel to participate in the Conclave.

After the cardinals have gathered, the shout extra omnes (everybody out) rings out and the cardinals  who are sworn to an oath of secrecy  will be locked inside the Conclave until they can choose a successor.

There is no guarantee that the first round of voting will be revealed the same day. Through a mixture of speeches, prayer, reflection  and intense political jostling  cardinals whittle down candidates through successive rounds of voting.

The cardinals themselves sit on both sides of the Sistine Chapel.

open image in gallery The Sistine Chapel, set up for the Papal Conclave ( VATICAN MEDIA/AFP via Getty Imag )

The names of nine cardinals are chosen at random to officiate and organise the vote. Three become Scrutineers, whose job it is to oversee the vote. Three more collect the votes and three more revise them.

A pope is only elected when a single candidate receives a two-thirds majority. Sometimes popes are chosen quickly, when a strong candidate emerges. However, from the 34th ballot onwards, the Conclave only votes between the two front runners who gained the most votes in the previous round.

The longest Papal Conclave, in the late thirteenth century, lasted the best part of three years thanks to massive political infighting. Three voting cardinals died during the process.

The ballot itself is secret and was introduced on 1621 by Gregory XV to try and avoid overt politicking, but the Conclave is inevitably a hotbed of competing factions who wish to see their man come out on top.

open image in gallery Firefighters place the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, which will be used to signal that a new pope has been elected ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

During each ballot, cardinals write the name of their choice, ideally in distorted handwriting to disguise their identity.

The ballot papers are then burned in a small fire inside the Sistine Chapel. The black smoke which is produced by the fire tells the crowds waiting outside that a new pope is yet to be chosen.

When one candidate has finally won two-thirds of the vote a new pope is elected. The Cardinal Dean then calls the candidate to the front of the chapel and asks whether they are willing to accept. If the answer is yes, the new Pope is then asked to choose his new Papal name.

Although the pope is seen as the successor of St Peter, none have chosen Peter for their Papal name, partly to avoid comparisons to the founder of the Roman Catholic Church and partly because of an ancient prophecy that a new pope called Peter will precede the end of the world.

open image in gallery The "Room of Tears", a small room next to the Sistine Chapel, with the vestments of the next Pope displayed in three different sizes ( VATICAN MEDIA/AFP via Getty Imag )

With a pope now duly elected the ballot papers are burned once more with an additive placed in the fire that turns the smoke white, informing the world that a new Pontiff has been chosen.

In the weeks leading up to the Conclave, Vatican tailors get to work on creating three Papal robes in small, medium and large. The new pope is led into the Room of Tears adjacent to the Sistine Chapel where he dons his new white robes and red slippers.

The pope is then presented to the crowds who have gathered in the Vatican from the main balcony of St Peters Basilica with the famous words: Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum: Habemus Papam! (I announce to you with great joy we have a pope.)
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Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky reaffirmed the significance of American support for his country, just days after an unprecedented clash at the Oval Office.

In a video message on X, Mr Zelensky showed gratitude for US military and financial assistance in Kyivs war against Russia while underscoring that his countrys resilience depended on its allies.

"There will be diplomacy for the sake of peace. And for the sake of us all being together  Ukraine, all of Europe and definitely, definitely America," Mr Zelensky said in his nightly address after meeting with UK and European leaders on Sunday.

The statement came just two days after the heated encounter at the White House where US president Donald Trump and vice president JD Vance criticised him for not being sufficiently appreciative of US assistance.

"There hasnt been a single day when we havent felt grateful," Mr Zelensky said after participating in an emergency security summit with Western leaders in London.

Because this is gratitude for the preservation of our independence: our resilience in Ukraine is built upon what our partners do for us and for their own security.

The summit, hosted by British prime minister Keir Starmer, brought together 18 leaders, including Emmanuel Macron of France, Justin Trudeau of Canada, and Giorgia Meloni of Italy.

The discussions centered on securing long-term stability for Ukraine in the backdrop of Washington talking with Moscow to find a solution to the three-year conflict.

Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees," Mr Zelensky said. "And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and Turkey."

Amid growing international divisions over how to end the war, Mr Zelensky maintained that Kyiv wanted peace but not at the cost of sovereignty.

We need peace, not endless war, he said. And that is why we say that security guarantees are the key to this.

Several European leaders earlier pledged to formulate a peace plan for Ukraine, aiming to present it to the US in a bid to secure essential security guarantees. The commitment emerged from the London summit where Sir Keir underscored the urgency of a coordinated approach. "This isnt a moment for more talk. Its time to act, to step up and lead, and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace," the prime minister said.

The meeting came as European countries sought to demonstrate that they could bolster Ukraines defences while ensuring US involvement in any lasting resolution.

Mr Macron told Le Figaro ahead of the summit that the proposed peace plan could include a one-month ceasefire limited to air and sea attacks, though ground combat would continue. He suggested a potential deployment of European troops should a more comprehensive agreement be reached. However, it remained unclear whether other nations had endorsed this proposal.

Ukraine maintained that any peace deal must not involve territorial concessions to Russia. Mr Zelensky reiterated this position after the summit, saying Kyiv wouldnt entertain negotiations that required ceding land.

He also hinted at possible economic cooperation with the US, including a mineral deal that Mr Trump had been pushing Kyiv to sign until the White House fiasco.

The push for European-led diplomacy followed concerns that Kyiv could be sidelined in broader negotiations after Mr Trumps unanticipated outreach to Russian president Vladimir Putin and his decision to exclude Ukraine from discussions held in Saudi Arabia.

European leaders were reported to fear that Washington could attempt to impose a settlement favourable to Moscow, undermining Ukraines security.

Mr Starmer and other European leaders were said to believe that increasing defence spending could be key to persuading Mr Trump to commit to a long-term security arrangement for Ukraine.

"After a long period of underinvestment, its now of utmost importance to step up defence spending for an extended period," European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said.

She stressed the need to transform Ukraine into "a steel porcupine  indigestible for potential invaders."
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Several Arab nations and the UN have condemned Israels decision to block humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it a violation of the ceasefire agreement.

Egypt and Qatar, key mediators, criticised the move, while Saudi Arabia and the UN also expressed concern. Egypt accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon, while Saudi Arabia described the move as blackmail and collective punishment against Palestinians.

In a statement on Sunday, Qatars foreign ministry said it strongly condemns the Israeli decision, describing it as a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement and international humanitarian law.

The Egyptian foreign ministry went on to accuse Israel of using starvation as a weapon against the Palestinian people, according to AFP.

Saudi Arabia, on Sunday, expressed its condemnation and denunciation of the Israeli aid blockade, the foreign ministry said.

A Hamas spokesperson described Israels blockade as cheap blackmail and a coup against the ceasefire agreement.

UN under-secretary-general for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, also raised concern over Israels move. International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid, he said.

Israel defended the decision, saying that it decided to act because Hamas steals the supplies and prevents the people of Gaza from getting them.

It uses these supplies to finance its terror machine, which is aimed directly at Israel and our civilians, and this we cannot accept, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said.

Hamas has consistently denied accusations of stealing humanitarian aid in Gaza. Meanwhile, negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire have begun, but progress remains minimal.

Phase two of the ceasefire aims for a permanent truce, the release of all remaining living hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Phase three would involve the return of deceased hostages bodies and Gazas reconstruction.

Hamas refuses to extend the ceasefire without guarantees that phase two will proceed.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) said that Israels decision to block humanitarian aid to Gaza strengthens the war crimes case against Israeli leaders at the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The decision by the far-right government of indicted war criminal Benjamin Netanyahu to block all humanitarian aid to the civilian population of Gaza during Ramadan is a clear war crime and is further evidence of Israels genocidal intent, the Washington, DC-based organisation said.

Israels renewed cruel and illegal campaign of forced starvation adds more evidence to the International Criminal Courts genocide case against Israeli officials.
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A British-Israeli woman who was held hostage by Hamas for 471 days, has undergone surgery for injuries sustained during the 7 October attacks.

Emily Damaris mother, Mandy, revealed her daughter had been sewn up like a pin cushion by Hamas, leaving Emily in significant pain both in her hand and leg.

Ms Damari was taken from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza on the morning of Hamass attack on Israel in 2023 and shot in the hand, blindfolded and forced into her own car with two other friends, her family previously said.

The 29-year-old, who the militant group held for 15 months, said the injuries caused her to lose two fingers and she also sustained injuries to her leg that have impaired her movement.

She has now undergone a series of complex operations on her hand and leg to repair damage caused by the attack and her time in captivity.

open image in gallery Ms Damaris injuries caused her to lose two fingers ( IDF Spokesperson/PA Wire )

Speaking from Sheba Medical Centre in Israel before her operations, Ms Damari said: I have fully embraced my hand, my pain, and my scars. To me they represent freedom, hope and strength.

She said her hand will never fully recover and described the intense pain she suffered for a year-and-a-half following an operation in Gaza.

After my recuperation, with the help of physiotherapy, I hope to be able to use my hand much more effectively than was previously possible, before the surgery, she added.

open image in gallery She recieved surgery from Sheba Medical Centre in Israel ( Damari Family/PA Wire )

Hamas kept Ms Damari in its network of underground tunnels, with no sanitation or access to clean water for long periods of time, she said.

It was shocking but not surprising to see how emaciated some of the other hostages were when they came out. Hamas has created hell on Earth, the conditions down there are unimaginable, she added.

Her mother added: It is nothing short of a miracle that she did not contract a life-threatening infection.

open image in gallery Ms Damari was released on 19 January ( Pomi Ofir Tal/PA Wire )

Ms Damari was released on 19 January and was one of the first three hostages to be freed when the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas was struck.

Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, were also freed.

Prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said her release was wonderful and long-overdue news, and spoke to Ms Damari and her mother over the phone.

Ms Damari said she is excited to come to Britain, and she has been invited by Sir Keir to No 10.

I have so many people that I want to thank personally for helping me get my life back, she said.
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Jordanian security forces shot dead an Indian man trying to cross illegally into Israel, a letter sent to his family by the countrys embassy in Amman said.

Thomas Gabriel Perera, 47, from Thumba in the southern Indian state of Kerala, was in a group of four people who had travelled to Jordan on tourist visas on 5 February.

Perera and his companion Edison, 43, also from Thumba, were autorickshaw drivers. They had allegedly been promised jobs in Israel with a monthly salary of Rs350,000 (3,180) by a fellow Indian working in Jordan.

Mr Edison said they paid that person Rs 210,000 (1,908) upfront and were supposed to pay Rs 50,000 (454) every month upon securing work.

Thomas and another person were trying to cross the Jordan border at Karkak district illegally on the night 10 February, The Indian Express quoted the embassys letter as stating. The security forces tried to stop them, but they did not listen to the warning. The guards opened fire on them. One bullet hit Thomas in his head and he died on the spot. Later, his body was sent to a local hospital, the report said.

Mr Edison, who sustained injuries and regained consciousness days later in a Jordanian medical facility, subsequently faced legal proceedings, and was deported to India on 28 February.

The embassy said on Sunday it had learnt of the "sad demise of an Indian national in unfortunate circumstances".

His wife told the news agency ANI that the last time Perera called her, he only spoke for two minutes. He just asked me to pray for him, she said.

In March last year, an Indian man named Nibin Maxwell was killed during the Israel-Gaza war. He had moved to Israel in late 2023 in search of work and was among hundreds of Indian men taking up jobs in dangerous places, such as the Russian frontline in Ukraine, driven by what an economist described as extreme desperation due to the lack of well-paid employment at home.

The Narendra Modi government faced domestic criticism after it signed an agreement with Israel to allow 40,000 Indians to work in construction and nursing in the Middle Eastern country, making up for the loss of Palestinian workers amid the war on Gaza. Critics demanded better and safer job opportunities closer home.

At the time the scheme was announced, the government said India was committed to making sure its migrant workers were protected. Through this agreement, we want to ensure that theres regulated migration and the rights of the people who go there are protected, said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the foreign ministry.

Israel is not the only dangerous destination for Indians searching for work. Several Indian men were allegedly unwittingly recruited to work for the Russian army in Ukraine after leaving the country in response to job adverts seeking army helpers.

In January, the foreign ministry said at least 126 Indian nationals had joined the Russian military. Ninety six had since returned home, 12 had been killed and 16 were believed to be missing.
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A man in his 60s was killed and four were wounded in a bus station stabbing in the city of Haifa , Israels ambulance service said, with the police treating it as a suspected terrorist attack .

The assailant was shot and killed by a security guard and a civilian, police said, after the attack in a central transit hub in the northern city.

Police said the assailant was an Arab citizen of Israel who had returned from abroad in May, police added. The attack is still being investigated.

open image in gallery Members of Israeli security and emergency services deploy at the site of a stabbing attack ( AFP via Getty Images )

Hamas praised the attack but have not claimed responsibility for it.

Regional tensions are running high with fear among Palestinians that a ceasefire in the 15-month war in Gaza could collapse altogether after Israel imposed a total blockade on the shattered enclave.

The war began when Hamas-led fighters attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and capturing more than 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Fifty-nine hostages are believed to remain in Gaza.

Israel's retaliatory war inside Gaza has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, and displaced most of the population.

A first phase of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that began in January ended over the weekend with no agreement on what will happen next.

Hamas says an agreed second phase must now begin, leading to a permanent Israeli withdrawal and an end to the war. Israel has instead offered a temporary extension into April, with Hamas to release more hostages in return for Palestinian detainees, without immediate talks on Gaza's future.

open image in gallery Emergency services work at the site of the stabbing ( REUTERS )

Two Israeli government officials said mediators had asked Israel for a few more days to resolve the standoff.

Israel raised the stakes on Sunday by imposing a total blockade on all supplies, including food and fuel, to sustain the 2.3 million Gazans living among the ruins after the 15-month conflict.

Israels government has warned of "further consequences" if Hamas does not accept a new proposal from US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to extend the first phase ceasefire through Ramadan and Passover.

Several Arab nations have described Israels blockade on aid as a violation of the ceasefire. Egypt accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon, while Saudi Arabia described the move as blackmail and collective punishment against Palestinians.

In a statement on Sunday, Qatars foreign ministry said it strongly condemns the Israeli decision, describing it as a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement and international humanitarian law.
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Equal parts elegant and welcoming, the Peninsula groups Beijing property upholds its impeccable service and attention to detail  think super late check out, Michelin-star dining and spa-level bathrooms

Location

Situated in the very heart of Beijing, the Peninsula is well positioned for exploring the capital with historical attractions nearby including Tiananmen Square and the National Museum of China. Step out onto streets brimming with life, from tea shops, temples and Peking duck restaurants, to towering shopping malls and luxury boutiques  and not forgetting the Forbidden City. North of Beijing is a stretch of the Great Wall of China, making this hotel an ideal place to stay while visiting one of the new seven wonders of the world.

open image in gallery The Forbidden City (left) and the Great Wall of China (right) ( Samuel Mathewson )

The vibe

A palatial white marble lobby trimmed with gold, six grand columns, and a sweeping staircase make for an imposing entrance, but a warm welcome from staff accompanies the grandeur. Luxury designer boutiques flank the vast room, which has a rotating display of seasonal flowers and plants. Opulent materials such as jade, mahogany and bronze can be found across the hotel, with Chinese symbolism and feng shui traditions embedded throughout The Peninsulas design, including hexagonal motifs woven into tiles and carpets to symbolise completeness, while phoenix carvings represent union and harmony.

open image in gallery Symbolic artwork and the grand lobby of the hotel ( Samuel Mathewson )

The service

Much like its London counterpart, the flawless service creates a seamless stay for guests. The staff are simultaneously quiet and discrete while being on hand and pre-empting needs to create a sense that guests are in safe hands for a relaxing stay. Luggage is whisked away upon arrival, check-in takes place in the comfort of your room and our server at breakfast even remembered our coffee order on our second morning.

Read more: The country finally opening up to the world for travel again

Bed and bath

Rooms are refined and elegant with sophisticated decor, huge beds and TV screens tastefully hidden away. Browse books on local history or admire traditional Chinese decorative boxes and screens, with a nod to this remarkable culture. Decor is pared back with neutral tones and luxurious textures, while vases of fresh flowers sit on bedside tables. Tech is forward-thinking, with blackout blinds opening and closing and mood lighting engineered via the bedside screens. Larger suites even have plush cinema rooms with films to rent.

Bathrooms are a masterclass in relaxation with oversized tubs and a special spa mode that dims the lights and plays calming music. Walk-in waterfall showers come stocked with The Peninsulas branded bath products that are created in collaboration with local fragrance artisans.

Dressing areas confine suitcases to a dedicated space, rather than splaying them all over your sleeping or living area.

open image in gallery The rooms at The Peninsula are elegant and understated ( Samuel Mathewson )

Food and drink

Afternoon tea and breakfast are both held in the Lobby at the heart of the hotel, with grand ceilings above and a view of the Chanel boutique to enjoy while you tuck into your eggs Benedict and champagne.

There are two restaurants in the hotel. Jing, a Michelin-starred French restaurant, includes a chefs table experience room and private wine cellar for rare champagne and fine wine pairings. The dinner menu incorporates multiple courses with dishes like langoustine tartar with eight year old caviar, smoky charcoal grilled lobster and meltingly soft wagyu beef, plus the chefs signature basque cheesecake.

Huang Ting is the Cantonese style restaurant with moody wooden features, fascinating art pieces and a fish pond  for fortune to flow  as you enjoy dim sum, fish with spicy peppercorns, Cantonese roast duck and stir fried prawns. Servers are on hand to recommend the perfect Chinese tea to pair with each course.

Read more: How to secure a China travel visa as new rules allow longer stays

open image in gallery Breakfast in the Lobby and roast duck at Huang Ting restaurant ( Samuel Mathewson )

Facilities

The spa is candlelit and calming scents greet guests on arrival. The Asian style tea room is perfect for a soothing cup of tea, pre or post-treatment. Treatments and wellness activities at the spa include the ancient practice of sound meditation using a singing bowl, massages utilising botanical skin oils and deep tissue massages. Hot stone and back exfoliation massages are also available. Treatment rooms are equipped with waterfall showers and jacuzzi baths. There is a spacious, well-equipped gym for workouts, plus an 18 metre pool.

The Peninsula Academy is a collection of luxury experiences organised by the team. Working with third-party tour guides and attractions, these experiences are tailor-made for Peninsula guests. Visit the Great Wall of China in one of the Peninsula cars where a tour guide will accompany you on a walk before enjoying a luxury private brunch. Alternatively, experience Beijings distinctive hutongs, or alleyways, with a guided tour of the old streets followed by a private afternoon tea on a boat.

Read more: China travel guide: Everything you need to know

open image in gallery Experience old Beijing with a tour of the hutongs as part of the Peninsula Academy ( Samuel Mathewson )

Accessibility

The hotel is fully accessible with rooms suitable for wheelchairs.

Pet policy

No pets allowed.

Check in/check out

Check in from 2pm; check out by 12pm. Peninsula Time allows guests to check in as early as 6am and as late as 10pm on day of departure for no extra charge, but this needs to be agreed in advance  check at time of booking with the hotel.

Family friendly?

Yes, children and families are welcomed. Babysitting services are available for guests, but advance notice of 24 hours must be given.

At a glance

Best thing: Drinking tea in the bath with spa mode on.

Perfect for: A luxury base for exploring ancient Beijing.

Not right for: Backpackers on a budget.

Instagram from: The bedroom window overlooking the bustling city below.

Address: 8 Goldfish Lane, Wangfujing, Beijing 100006

Phone: +86 10 8516 2888

Website: peninsula.com

Read more: Im the concierge at the real White Lotus hotel  this is how our guests really spend their time
Jeremy Strong appeared sullen as Kieran Culkin gave a shout-out to his Succession co-star while accepting the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 ceremony on Sunday, 2 March.

The 42-year-old was honoured for his role as Benji Kaplan in Jesse Eisenbergs drama A Real Pain, which follows two American cousins who embark on a tour of Auschwitz.

His Oscar comes after he won a Bafta and Golden Globe for the performance.

Culkin told Strong: Jeremy, you're amazing in The Apprentice. I love your work, it's f***ing... I'm not supposed to single anyone out its favouritism, but you were great.
Kingda Ka, the world's tallest roller coaster, was demolished on Friday morning (28 February) at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey.

Authorities warned residents about a series of rapid explosions prior to the controlled implosion, advising them to keep pets indoors, while assuring that all necessary safety measures were in place for a controlled and secure demolition.

The 456ft (139m) coaster, which opened in 2005, had stood for nearly two decades before being scrapped as part of the parks transformation plan. It is set to be replaced by a new attraction, The Flash: Vertical Velocity, scheduled to open in 2026.
JD Vance protesters line the streets of Vermont as the vice president takes a ski holiday following his clash with Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky.

Footage filmed by local residents captures protesters lining Route 100 in Waitsfield on Saturday (1 March). They can be heard cheering and can be seen holding anti-Donald Trump signs.

The protests follow an unprecedented clash between Mr Zelensky and the US president and vice president at the Oval Office on Friday (28 February), where they accused the Ukraine president of being disrespectful.
Pro-Ukraine protesters have gathered outside the White House to rally in support of their country and president.

Hundreds of supporters gathered in solidarity to show their support for Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday (1 March).

This comes after US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance erupted at Mr Zelensky, telling him he was disrespectful in an unprecedented clash at the Oval Office on Friday (28 February).

World leaders and Americans were stunned by the confrontation, with many rushing to the defence of Mr Zelensky.
Sir Keir Starmer says he trusts Donald Trump and stated the US president wants lasting peace in Ukraine. The prime minister said he trusts both Trump and Ukraine President Volodymr Zelensky, when he appeared on BBCs Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg today (2 March).

His appearance follows an unprecedented clash between the US and Ukraine leader at the White House on Friday (28 February).

Pressed on why he trusts the US President, he said: Because Ive spoken to him a number of times. Ive got to know him. Ive had extensive discussions with him and I believe his motivation is lasting peace.
Volodymyr Zelensky joked at a press conference that he was aware of everything when asked about a Ukraine reportedly proposed by Emmanuel Macron and Sir Keir Starmer.

The Ukrainian president was asked about reports in Le Figaro that the French president and UK prime minister had proposed a truce of one month.

I know everything. I'm aware of everything, the Ukrainian president told reporters after attending a summit of European leaders discussing a peace plan for Ukraine.

Le Figaro reports that Mr Macron and Sir Keir do not support a ceasefire signed by the US and Russia and have proposed an alternative month-long truce.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised the importance of American support following a recent clash with US president Donald Trump and vice president JD Vance at the Oval Office.

Trump and Vance criticised Zelensky for not fully appreciating US assistance during a meeting on February 28.

In a video message posted on X two days later, Zelensky thanked the US for its military and financial aid in Ukraines fight against Russia, stressing the need for security guarantees.

We understand the importance of America and are grateful for all the support, he said, adding that there are lines we cannot compromise on.

These positions will be presented to our partners in the US, Zelensky stated.
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Puce with rage, he leaned over and wagged his finger as he told the leader of a nation under assault from Russia: Youre playing cards, youre gambling with the lives of millions of people. But when Donald Trump got furious with Volodymyr Zelensky, it wasnt just business, it was personal.

As in all mafia tales, the relationship between the two leaders has been poisoned by business  specifically the business of Russia. But it would be dangerous to believe Trumps support for Russia is just fuelled by his animus to Zelensky. Its much worse than that.

Trump likes Putin, with whom he says he shared the experience of the scam of allegations that Russia interfered in his 2016 election as president. And Trump hates Zelensky for not helping him campaign against Joe Biden when he lost his second term run.

Let me tell ya, Putin went through a hell of a lot with me  we went through a phony witch hunt when they used him and Russia, Russia, Russia, Russia, Trump ranted, as he got increasingly incoherent during the White House attack on Zelensky he launched with JD Vance, vice-president, last week.

That was a phony Hunter Biden, Joe Biden scam. Hillary Clinton, shifty Adam Schiff, it was a Democrat scam. And [Putin] had to go through that. And he did go through it. We didnt end up in a war. And he went through it.

He was accused of all that stuff. He had nothing to do with it. It came out of Hunter Bidens bathroom. It came out of Hunter Bidens bedroom. It was disgusting.

Translated  Trump says he goes way back with Putin to the days when the Kremlin was accused of getting their man, him, into the White House in 2016.

Zelensky, however, is seen by Trump as the disloyal recipient of Americas largesse for failing to open an investigation into Hunter Bidens business deals in Ukraine in July 2019. Joe Biden was the likely Democrat candidate in the election of 2020.

When Donald Trump got furious with Volodymyr Zelensky it wasnt just business, it was personal ( AFP )

Back then, Trump was impeached by congress over his alleged threat to withhold $400m in US military aid to Ukraine unless Zelensky helped with the Biden campaign and other anti-Democrat operations. Trump was cleared by the senate but the damage had been done.

So with Zelensky, it is personal. But Trumps campaigning against Ukraine has a longer history.

In 2018, before Zelensky was elected, Trump told G7 leaders that he supported Russias illegal invasion of Crimea because everyone there speaks Russian. He went on to campaign for Russian readmission to the G7/G8 after it was subsequently expelled.

He has recently adopted almost every one of the Russian negotiating principles for peace in Ukraine, before his diplomats even met any Russians. Trump has ruled out a return of all captured Ukrainian territory, Nato support in a peacekeeping force, a Ukrainian presence in talks and future Nato membership for Ukraine.

Who knows, the US president shrugged, maybe Ukraine will be Russian one day. He has endorsed Putins desire to renew warm diplomatic relations and is openly talking about restarting business with the heavily sanctioned dictatorship in Moscow.

Trump has further suggested that he would not automatically come to the aid of Nato nations under Russian attack. And Vance has deliberately and repeatedly gone to some lengths to undermine relations with Europe and the UK with his bizarre claims that Europeans are campaigning against free speech.

Trumps supporters have suggested that perhaps this is all part of a long-term effort to get Europe to pay more for its own defence. And above all to prise Russia away from its more natural alliance with China.

They argue this would not be a dangerous pivot, that it would be good for the West in the long run perhaps and serve as a balance to Chinas dominant economic power.

The trouble is: thats not what is happening.

It is more likely that, for reasons that remain opaque, Trump is either consciously or unconsciously doing what the Kremlin thinks is best. And driving a wedge between the US and Europe.

Putin wants to see an enfeebled West and a fractured Nato. He wants to prise America away.

He has already been delighted by Brexit, which has weakened the European Union, and by the anti-EU policies of Hungary and Slovakia, both EU members.

Now European leaders are dealing with the once unthinkable notion that America is no longer a reliable ally and that its leader sees Putins Russia as a model for how he would like to rule.

They look at what is happening inside America and they see a country thats under attack from its own newly elected president. If Putin wanted to enfeeble America itself he would probably want to remove incumbent heads of the intelligence services, as Trump has, and eviscerate the military leadership, as Trump has.

Elon Musk, Trumps enforcer  and another apologist for Putin who supports far-right anti-European Union groups in the UK and on the continent  has launched a purge of the federal bureaucracy.

He has also smashed Americas soft-power opportunities to spread Western values by shutting down USAID. Musks people have burrowed into the most sensitive financial details of millions of federal employees.

Democracies rely on a social contract with national administrations. When thats hollowed out, they collapse. Thats something else Putin would like to see.

Peter Mandelson has been rightly criticised for stepping out of the UK government line, as a diplomat, by saying that Zelensky needs to repair his relationship with Trump. He has also missed the point of what happened in the White House.

It may have appeared to be a clash between two men. It was not. It was a clash of civilisations  a shift of the US into the Russian sphere. It wasnt just personal, it was strategic.
Belfast juice chain says low Irish taxes and 9pc Vat rate led it to expand into Dublin

The rates down here are next to nothing compared to up north

Sam Shephard started Juice Jar in 2019

Sean Pollock Sun 2 Mar 2025 at 03:30

A healthy food and juice chain from Northern Ireland plans to open three new stores across Dublin.
A family-owned hospitality supplier, counting Adare Manor as a client, is on the hunt for acquisitions after snapping up Co Wicklow-based wholesaler Irish Distributors Ltd.

The acquisition of Irish Distributors by Conaty Food and Catering Supplies is part of a growth plan that could see the business hit revenues of over 50m this year. The deal will primarily strengthen Conatys hygiene offering to clients, an area of business which has seen significant growth since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Oscars 2025: Conan OBrien's joke about Cillian Murphy was one of the best of the night but the comic had a few wobbles as first-time host

The Oscars were held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and aired live in more than 200 territories worldwide  with the famous redhead Late Night host, Conan OBrien, taking over hosting duties of the 97th Academy Awards for the first time

Conan O'Brien hosts The Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood (Photo by Frank Micelotta/Disney via Getty Images)

Chris Wasser Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 08:11

Leave it to a dancing Irishman to deliver the wittiest jokes of awards season. Conan OBrien, an accomplished clown and a competent Oscars host, didnt always hit the target on his big night at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles. There were a few wobbles, a handful of missteps, even.
The TV presenter rejoined his former co-host Susanna Reid on the show to discuss his own experiences with US president Donald Trump (James Manning/PA)

Piers Morgan has returned to Good Morning Britain for the first time in nearly four years following his departure from ITV over his controversial comments about the Duchess of Sussex.

The TV presenter stormed off the ITV morning programme on March 8 2021 and subsequently left after saying he did not believe claims made by former Suits actress Meghan during her and Harry's explosive Oprah Winfrey interview, which became the most complained-about show in Ofcom history.

On Monday morning, he rejoined his former co-presenter Susanna Reid and Ed Balls on the show to discuss his own experiences with US president Donald Trump.

Morgan interrupted Reid before she launched into the interview, saying: "Hang on, are we just going to ignore the fact I haven't been here for 1,453 days?"

He then tried to give Reid a hug, which she initially rejected, saying: "No, I don't want a hug."

After Morgan encouraged her, the pair shared an air hug and kiss, which prompted laughter from Morgan.

Former MP Balls then offered to hug Morgan, saying: "We don't mind hugging."

Morgan also remarked to Reid that she had "moved on so fast" to a new co-presenter, to which she replied: "I've got a couple of new husbands now."

Balls assured Morgan that she did not hug him either, to which Reid responded: "No, I don't do hugs, as you know."

Launching into her interview, she continued: "I've locked horns with you, Piers Morgan, on many occasions, but you have locked horns with President Trump."

Morgan went on to reveal that he had had a phone call with Mr Trump on Friday ahead of the US president's clash with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday.

He said Mr Trump had been in an "upbeat mood" on the call where they had discussed numerous topics including Ukraine.

The presenter said: "I've had screaming matches with him, literally, and then an hour later, we're laughing and joking, doing a fun interview ...

"So I always think with him, focus on what he does, not what he says, or the general drama and chaos.

"And secondly, understand that this is almost uniquely in modern times, a Republican president in America who wants peace, not war."

At the end of their interview, Reid and Morgan began to butt heads again as he advised Balls to stop wearing ties, as he said that in the YouTube area he was now in, ties were the "enemy".

Balls replied: "Piers, as you know, I always do what the editor wants."

To which Morgan quipped: "Or what Susanna tells you to do, bad for her brand if you take the tie off."

She said it had "nothing" to do with her and pointed out the exit to him, saying: "There's a door there. I'm not sure if you recognise it Piers?"

Morgan stormed off the set of Good Morning Britain in 2021 after saying he did not believe claims made by Meghan during her interview with Winfrey.

The episode received 54,595 complaints and it emerged that Meghan had made a formal complaint to ITV about Morgan.

The media watchdog later ruled that Good Morning Britain was not in breach of the broadcasting code over Morgan's comments but said they were "potentially harmful and offensive".
Farmers in tractors make their way along the A303 during a national tractor rally organised by Farmers To Action in January, calling for the scrapping of the changes to inheritance tax rules, fairness in food pricing and national food security to protect and promote domestic food production. Photo: Getty

Farmers have accused the government of promising the world and giving us nothing as the environment secretary faced another barrage of criticism over Labours inheritance tax raid on family farms.

Steve Reed sought to shift the blame for the challenges facing the agricultural industry onto the Conservatives Brexit deal, which he said had left farmers badly let down.

Mr Reed said farmers had been sold a lie during Brexit talks that they would maintain access to European markets, but that Sir Keir Starmers ongoing reset of post-Brexit relations with Brussels would help address the dropoff, which has seen exports to Europe have fallen by a fifth since 2018.

But farmers immediately hit back at Mr Reed, accusing Labour of being determined to make the Tories Brexit work.

They are aggressively trying to derail a legal challenge to the dreadful Australian trade deal which saw Boris Johnson famously cede the whole kingdom over dinner, Save British Farming founder Liz Webster told The Independent.

Leicestershire-based farmer Oli Fletcher said Brexit had hit farmers because it unleashed Michael Goves vision of an agricultural transition upon the countryside. But he added that in a bizarre lapse of ideological direction, the new Labour government has doubled down on it.

The governments tax change means previously exempt farms will be hit with a 20 per cent levy on farming assets worth more than 1m, with critics claiming it will force family farmers to sell up and rip the heart out of Britains countryside.

It came after Sir Keir promised at the National Farming Unions (NFU) conference in 2023 to reset the governments relationship with farming and rural Britain.

At this years conference, NFU chief Tom Bradshaw lashed out at Rachel Reeves over the changes, which he said had left older farmers in a very real dilemma.

Unless they die before April 2026 [when the changes take effect], their families will face a family farm tax bill they simply cannot afford to pay, Mr Bradshaw told a hall of more than 600 gathered farmers.

With a fresh round of protests against the tax change raging outside the conference centre in London, an emotional Mr Bradshaw added: What a cruel position to put elderly people in, by no way of warning, by way of a broken price.

Government, you must correct this urgently.

Speaking to The Independent outside the conference centre, Paul, a farmer working for Ben Smith & Sons in Wantage said Labour promised us the world and have given us nothing its just lies.

Paul highlighted industry fears about food shortages as a result of the policy change, adding: When is somebody going to start listening? It will be too late if they are not careful.

As well as opposition from farmers, the chancellor has been urged to U-turn by every major supermarket, with grocers signing a joint letter warning it threatens the long-term stability of the nation's food resilience.

Inside the conference hall, Mr Reeds speech to the NFU conference was repeatedly interrupted by hecklers and critics. And, during a brutal Q&A following the speech, Mr Reed was told Labour has taken an a** about face way of doing tax policy and seeing vulnerable elderly farmers as collateral damage.

One farmer in the audience raised the case of his 90-year-old mother, a widow of over 20 years whose family have continuously worked on their farm for 400 years. She is now wishing her life away at the end of April next year, her and countless other widows and widowers are now in a similar position where the best tax advice is to ensure they are not here by April next year, the farmer warned.

Mr Reed said he could not comment on individual cases, but he insisted that nobody should wish their lives away as a result of Labours tax changes.

He apologised to gathered farmers for the tax changes, blaming the Conservatives for the change, saying: I am genuinely sorry at the shock that decision created across the sector, it happened because we had a much tougher set of financial circumstances than we expected and stabilising the economy is one of the most important things we need to do.

If we can replace that loss, 20 per cent or perhaps do even better than that, that is money straight into the bank accounts of farmers and other food producers, he said. We want to do what we can to help, Mr Reed added.
He made his call and then it was up to me to make my call and I did  Joey OBrien on decision to take over from Damien Duff and nervy win over Cork
Draft law would remove the power of the UN Security Council to stop the deployment of Defence Forces peacekeepers overseas Mr Harris wants to increase the number of troops sent on peacekeeping missions from 12 to 50 Opposition described the plan as an attack on our neutrality

Draft legislation to amend Irelands triple lock on the deployment of Defence Forces peacekeepers overseas will be brought to Cabinet this week, Tanaiste Simon Harris has said.

The triple lock is the mechanism under which more than 12 members of the Irish Defence Forces can be deployed in overseas peacekeeping missions.

Such operations have to be approved by the Government, by Dail Eireann and by the UN Security Council.

Mr Harris said he was proposing increasing the number of troops who could be sent on peacekeeping missions without triggering the triple lock from 12 to 50.

He told the RTEs This Week programme: The idea of the UN Security Council having a veto on where we deploy Irish troops in relation to peacekeeping is something that needs to be modified.

The UN Security Council hasnt found itself in a position to authorise a peacekeeping mission since 2014.

I think everybody in this country is very proud of the work done by the men and women of Oglaigh na hEireann overseas in peacekeeping but we cannot have a situation where any one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, Russia or anybody else, can veto that decision.

Mr Harris said missions would have to be in line with the UN Charter, instead of "the UN Security Council and effectively Putin or others having a veto on where our troops go".

He said wanted to emphasise that the plans have "nothing whatsoever to do with military neutrality" and Ireland remains militarily neutral.

"We are removing in all circumstances the idea of the UN Security Council having a mandate," he said, adding that Ireland must have the flexibility to evacuate Irish people from hostile areas and new legislation will provide "legal clarity" on those issues.

On whether it opens up the possibility of Irish soldiers participating in EU or NATO missions, Mr Harris said: "In EU missions, yes. Not in NATO missions, we are not a member of NATO."

He said it is important to work with other countries on the issue of peacekeeping, which is a "proud tradition of this country".

"We cannot allow the paralysis in the UN Security Council stop us participating proactively."

Asked whether Irish peacekeepers would then be deployed to Ukraine in the event of a peace deal, Mr Harris said: "If there was peace or a peace agreement, I don't think Ireland can recuse itself from being willing to consider playing a part in a peacekeeping mission. But we're not at that point yet."

Mr Harris said the draft legislation would remove the requirement for the UN Security Council authorisation which, otherwise, would "effectively be saying Vladimir Putin would have to give us permission to assist Ukraine and that, to me, seems to be rather a bizarre situation".

The proposals have been criticised by Social Democrats TD Sinead Gibney, who described the plans as an attack on our neutrality and called on the Government to reconsider.

"The UN charter is extremely lengthy and runs to 111 separate articles. Stating peacekeeping missions must be in line with the UN charter is a prerequisite so broad as to be meaningless, she said.

Ms Gibney said it would provide almost free-range given to the Government of the day in relation to Irish troops being deployed to EU or NATO missions.

She added the the UN mandate to peacekeeping missions gives them legitimacy which will be impossible to replace from elsewhere.

She continued: There is currently an attack on the UN with Elon Musk this weekend stating the United States should leave the institution. The proposed plans from the Government are a further undermining of the UN

The UN undoubtedly needs to be reformed, but the government should be doing that from the inside instead of throwing in the towel."

Ms Gibney said the proposal to increase in the number of troops from 12 to 50 so the defence forces can act more swiftly in emergency situations, is something the Social Democrats can work with the Government on.

"Removing the requirement of a UN mandate, for Irish peacekeeping missions, is an attack on our neutrality. The government must reconsider, she added.

The Government has long had an issue with the fact that the five permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC) including China, France, Russia, the UK and the US, have powerful vetos which can stop the Security Council from agreeing to peacekeeping operations. The UN has not agreed a new peace keeping mission since 2014.

A government source said the measures proposed will reinforce Irelands ability to pursue an independent foreign policy.

Given current global instability, there has unfortunately in recent years been a growing requirement to be able to despatch our troops quickly and have the necessary flexibility to urgently respond to any crisis where, for example, Irish citizens require assistance abroad, such as what occurred in Kabul in 2021, and in Sudan in 2023, the source said.

They said that the Government is very clear that it has no desire to alter Irelands policy of military neutrality and it wont change our relationship with the United Nations.

Should there be future peace support operations for example in either Ukraine or Gaza, Ireland couldnt even consider participation unless they had a UN mandate, which in both these cases would be unlikely, the source added.

Meanwhile, Mr Harris also confirmed that he will bring plans to Cabinet this week that will double Irelands spend non-lethal military aid package to Ukraine from 50m to 100m

A meeting of the European Council this Thursday will decide a package of supports for Ukraine, which member states, including Ireland will contribute to.

Mr Harris told RTE the figure remains a matter for the European Council but that Ireland will pay a little more than 2pc of the final sum.

He said the cost of not paying is much more significant in terms of the security of the European Union, adding that it time to be on the right side of history and to actually stand up for the UN Charter.

The plans follow an unprecedented attack on Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky by US president Donald Trump and his vice president JD Vance in the White House on Friday.

During the meeting, Mr Trump accused Mr Zelensky of gambling with World War Three and Mr Vance said the Ukrainian leader was being disrespectful.

Speaking today, Mr Harris described the scenes in the Oval Office as deeply unsettling and it is clear that a gulf has emerged between the United States and the European Union on the issue of Ukraine.

He said Taoiseach Micheal Martin will know exactly what to do when he meets Mr Trump in 11 days, but added that time period is a very long time given the world in which were living now.

On whether he support an invitation for a state visit to Ireland being extended to Mr Trump, Mr Harris said US presidents have often visited Ireland.

"We always take the approach that youre better to engage with people where you have points of differentiation rather than take yourself off the pitch, so I have no difficulty if and when that should arise.

When I welcomed President Zelenskyy to Ireland, I met a leader working around the clock for his people and his country. I assured him of our support then and that support stands today. Europe must and will remain united. Slava Ukraini. pic.twitter.com/ZuaeTUXotV  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) March 2, 2025

It comes as Sinn Fein TD Louise OReilly said Mr Martin should use his face to face meeting with US President Donald Trump to speak up for the people of Gaza and Ukraine, as well as long-standing links between Ireland and the US, including trade.

"It is important not just what happens in front of the cameras, that is only a small part, she told RTEs The Week in Politics.

There will be engagements with the State Department, there will be direct engagement with the president, and the Taoiseach needs to use those engagements to highlight those things that are important to the people of Ireland.

I do believe when we hear Trump talking about the forced displacement of millions of Palestinians that actually yes, Micheal Martin should use every opportunity to speak up for the people of Gaza and to speak up for the people of Ukraine.

Starmer meeting

Meanwhile, UK prime minister Keir Starmer has arrived for crunch talks on the war in Ukraine with political leaders.

Mr Starmer is welcoming leaders from across Europe and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is also expected at the meeting at Lancaster House in London.

Mr Zelensky will be among those in attendance at the summit before he heads off to meet the King.

He travelled to the UK on Saturday after his Oval Office confrontation with Donald Trump which has created a divide between the US and its European Nato partners.

French President Emmanuel Macron was pictured arriving at the summit around lunchtime on Sunday.

He was embraced by the Prime Minister before heading inside.

Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte has also arrived, as well as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

They were followed shortly afterwards by other leaders including Mr Trudeau, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission.

Before the meeting, Mr Starmer spoke to the leaders of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, and agreed that "Europe must unite and drive forward urgent action that will secure the best outcome" in Ukraine.

Issuing a readout of the call with president Alar Karis of Estonia, prime minister Evika Silina of Latvia and president Gitanas Nauseda of Lithuania, a Downing Street spokesperson said: "The Prime Minister updated them on his discussions with the leaders of Ukraine, France and the United States in recent days - and underlined his focus on securing a lasting peace in Ukraine that ensures their future sovereignty, backed up by strong security guarantees".

Mr Starmer had said earlier on Sunday that the UK will work with France "and possibly one or two others" on a peace plan for Ukraine that will be discussed with the US.

He told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg programme: "My driving purpose has been to to bridge this, if you like, and get us back to the central focus.

"And as a result of the meeting yesterday, we had quite a long time with President Zelensky, then President Macron and President Trump on the phone.

"We've now agreed that the United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then we'll discuss that plan with the United States."

European leaders rallied round to support the Ukrainian president after the scenes in the Oval Office on Friday evening, which saw Mr Trump publicly berating Mr Zelensky.

Mr Starmer told Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg that the encounter made him feel "uncomfortable", adding that "nobody wants to see that".

"The important thing is how to react to that," said Sir Keir.

"There are a number of different routes people could go down. One is to ramp up the rhetoric as to how outraged we all are or not.

"The other is to do what I did, which is roll up my sleeves, pick up the phone, talk to President Trump, talk to President Zelensky, then invite President Zelensky for an extensive meeting yesterday, a warm welcome, and then further pick up the phone to President Macron and President Trump afterwards.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said her "heart went out" to Mr Zelensky following his clash with Mr Trump.

She told the same programme: "I watched it and I couldn't believe what was happening, he was being humiliated."
Gavin Robinson at the DUP's spring conference on Saturday

DUP leader Gavin Robinson has dismissed claims that a united Ireland is inevitable as a tired lie.

He also hit out at nationalist leaders seeking to create unionist bogeymen, saying they were trying to create scapegoats for their own failings.

His comments came at the DUPs spring conference in Fermanagh.

It came on a weekend when the debate over a border poll reopened, with former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar claiming the tectonic plates on Irish unity are moving in one direction only.

He was responding to separate opinion polls in the Belfast Telegraph and Irish Times.

In both cases, more voters favour Northern Ireland remaining part of the UK.

The Belfast Telegraph's LucidTalk poll indicates 48pc of voters would opt to maintain the Union while 41pc would back a united Ireland if a referendum was held this week.

However, the gap has narrowed  in its survey last year, there was a 10-point gap between the sides: 49pc supported staying in the UK, while 39pc wanted Irish unity.

Meanwhile, the Irish Times/Arins poll found 48pc would vote for the Union, while 34pc favour Irish unity.

The pro-unity number has increased from 27pc in the first year of the survey in 2022.

Mr Robinson addressed the topic at Saturdays conference, claiming the prospect of a united Ireland was as slim as ever.

Republicans still peddle the same tired lie that Irish unity is inevitable, that victory is around the corner, he told delegates.

They said it in the 1970s, the 1980s, the 1990s  and theyre still saying it today.

He said wider troubles for unionism  including Sinn Fein emerging as the biggest party in Northern Ireland  did not reflect a broader appetite for leaving the Union.

Unionism faces challenges but I dont believe the hype that everything is rosy on the other side, he added.

Despite all the noise from republicans, the total number voting for nationalist parties has barely moved in decades.

He added: The truth is that they want to keep their supporters distracted because theyre afraid of the truth.

They dont want their own people asking difficult questions about healthcare, housing or education because their only answer is blaming everyone.

Thats why they need to create unionist bogeymen. They need a scapegoat to keep their own house in order.

Yesterday, the Sunday Times reported that Irish taxpayers could face an annual bill of up to 22bn to fund the increased cost of welfare payments under any deal to form a united Ireland.

Writing in the paper, Mr Varadkar said there is a strong economic case for unification and predicted Northern Irelands economy will grow faster as part of a united Ireland.

Mr Varadkar accepted a border poll was not a priority for most politicians north or south.

However, he suggested a trigger point could be the election of a Conservative-Reform government in Westminster in four years time, saying it would drive more people in the middle ground towards unification, like Brexit did.
Tragedy followed night of horror on Friday when three men were killed in two accidents

Jamie Diver was one of those killed

A road closure at Blennerville Bridge in Tralee, Co Kerry, following the tragic incident yesterday. Photo: Mark O'Sullivan

The air ambulance on standby in Blennerville this morning. Photo Mark O'Sullivan.

Emergency services at the scene of the incident in Blennerville, Tralee, Co Kerry. Photo: Mark O'Sullivan

A woman who was out jogging when she was struck by an SUV in Tralee, Co Kerry, was as one of four fatalities on the countrys roads over the weekend.

The woman, in her 40s, was one of three female runners who were hit by the vehicle shortly before 10am yesterday on the N86, Canal Road.

The driver of the SUV who is in his 80s, was taken to hospital with the two surviving women. Their conditions are not thought to be life-threatening,

Yesterdays tragedy followed the deaths of a teenager and man in his 20s in Gortahork, Co Donegal, as well as the death of a motorcyclist in his 50s in Glenageary, Co Dublin, on Friday night.

The Donegal victims were named as 17-year-old Shaun McClafferty and Jamie Diver. They were killed and two others were injured when their vehicle crashed into the gable wall of a house in the townland of Baltoney. It is understood the teenager was driving the car, while Mr Diver was a back-seat passenger.

Another teenager and a man in his 20s, passengers in the car, were taken to Letterkenny University Hospital. One was transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin where his condition is critical.

Mr McClaffertys funeral mass will take place in Teach Pobail Chriost Ri, Gortahork, on Thursday.

Donegal victim Shaun McClafferty (17)

All four of the young men who were in the car are from the Cloughaneely area of Donegal.

A local priest said the parishes of Gortahork, Falcarragh and Gweedore were all affected by the tragedy.

Fr Brian O Fearraigh was requested by gardai to attend the scene on Friday night. He administered the last rites to the two young men.

He said there is a real sense of sadness in the area.

Being there on Friday night, the emergency services that were on the scene deserve the deepest of gratitude and praise for their professionalism, dedication and response, Fr O Fearraigh said.

The nature of their work often goes unnoticed, but in moments like these they remind us of the valuable work that they do.

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Niamh Kennedy described it as an absolute tragedy and said the community was in shock.

It is terrifying to think there are young people out at night who do not come home. Everyones heart stops when something like this happens and it is just shocking for the entire county and country, she said.

This is another sad story and terrifying event that will destroy families for ever. It is just unthinkable.

The death yesterday morning of the woman in Kerry brings to 29 the total number of deaths on Irish roads so far this year.

Last year, there were 38 road deaths up to the same weekend, resulting from 35 incidents. This years figure of 29 deaths results from 27 road accidents.

The figure includes seven pedestrians, 15 drivers, three passengers, three motorcyclists and one cyclist, according to garda statistics.
My favourite city in the world  several ports in a storm at Portos poshest hotel

Visitors are flocking to Portugals second city, thanks in large part to the jealousy-inducing views from the Yeatman

Porto is fast becoming a favourite for a long weekend

Tom Sweeney Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 03:30

Torrential rain is a rarity in Porto, so there isnt a great selection of umbrellas in the few shops that sell them when you get caught in an unseasonable September downpour.
Ksenia Samotiy: Trump is betraying Ukraine but at last Europe has woken up to the danger on its doorstep

This was the week that European leaders finally realised that theyrisk of being alone against an aggressive, vicious Russia

People demonstrate against the recent exchange between US president Donald Trump and Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky near Water Tower in Chicago. Photo: Getty

Ksenia Samotiy Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 17:00

There is a profound difference between peace and submission. Ukrainians want peace more than anyone else, but we understand better than anyone that submission will not bring peace  only further suffering, sooner or later.
In the wake of Brexit, Ireland and the UK had to reset their relationship. Before Brexit, aside from the normal meetings around Northern Ireland, the taoiseach and prime minister of the day would meet regularly at EU summit meetings, allowing for one-to-one chats on matters of mutual interest. Although our respective views on the European Union varied dramatically, the neighbouring governments were often able to co-operate in Brussels and had a better understanding of each others positions.

Then Brexit happened. Once all the disputes over the Border, the backstop and Boris Johnson quite frankly, were dealt with, it was time to evaluate how to repair the relationship and to return to some form of normality. The two governments came up with an annual UK-Irish summit. The first of those meetings between Taoiseach Micheal Martin and British prime minister Keir Starmer takes place this week.

Keir Starmer and Micheal Martin will meet at the annual UK-Irish summit this week. PA

Micheal Martin to highlight valuable, historic US ties during White House visit

The meeting will focus on four key areas, reflecting the breadth and depth of shared values: security, justice and global issues; climate, energy, technology and innovation; growth, trade and investment; culture, education and people-to-people connections.

The Taoiseach will also get an opportunity to talk to the prime minister about his meeting last week with US president Donald Trump at the White House. The British press hailed the meeting as a diplomatic success by Charmer Starmer who won over Donald Trump with an invitation letter from King Charles for an unprecedented second state visit. Martin will try to pick up a few tips on how to handle the prickly president  particularly around Gaza and Ukraine.

The Taoiseach can also discuss defence spending with his British counterpart. The UK government has committed to increasing defence spending to 2.5pc of GDP. A timeline was to be delivered after the completion of a strategic defence review. Instead, the prime minister decided to press ahead with that announcement before the review was concluded, saying the target will be hit by 2027.

The intention is for the UK to be among seven of the 32 Nato members spending 2.5pc or more on defence. Starmers international development minister has resigned over the cuts to the aid budget used to fund an increase in defence spending.

Russias invasion of Ukraine has rewritten the rulebook and sparked concerns about security on the continent of Europe. Poland is the largest spender, committing 4.1pc of its GDP to defence, with Estonia and Latvia also among the highest spending.

The EUs tolerance and understanding of Irelands neutral stance and low defence spending is waning. The Taoiseach says the country will have to significantly increase defence spending due to the threat of escalation of war within Europe, including protection from cyber, energy and maritime security threats.

The co-operation and goodwill of our allies like the UK is protecting Ireland. Defence cant be outsourced to our neighbours when we have the resources to spend more on our own security. 
Ice and fire: E. Chinas Shandong batters blizzard as Shanghai marks hottest early March in 150 years

Global Times) 11:27, March 03, 2025

A fierce snowstorm swept across East China's Shandong Province on Sunday, painting the landscape in white and prompting authorities to issue two rare red alerts for hazardous road icing and blizzards. Meanwhile, in a striking contrast, Shanghai, which is some 930 kilometers away, basked in an unusual heatwave, with the temperature at the Xujiahui Observatory soaring to 28C, marking the hottest early March day in Shanghai in over 150 years.

According to the Shandong provincial meteorological observatory, as of 2 pm Sunday, snowfall had occurred in 10 cities and 49 counties and districts across the province, with an average snowfall of 2.5 mm, the China National Radio reported on Sunday.

The urban area of Jinan, the capital city of Shandong, recorded the highest snowfall at 17.9 mm, while Yangxin county in Binzhou saw the deepest snow accumulation of 13 cm, said the report.

On Sunday afternoon, Jinan issued two red alerts for road icing and blizzards. Liu Chang, chief forecaster at the Shandong Meteorological Bureau, said that the two red alerts are extremely rare. The snowstorms in Jinan have reached the level of a severe blizzard, marking a historically extreme event for this period, according to Liu.

The heavy snow has disrupted people's daily lives, transportation, and attraction operations in Shandong province.

Jinan authorities announced on Sunday that all primary and secondary schools are urged to suspend classes on Monday, switching to online teaching. Three districts in Zibo also notified that all schools and kindergartens would close on Monday.

According to Shandong Hi-Speed Group, a total of 101 toll stations under its jurisdiction were closed due to blizzards. Affected by the blizzards, trains sections of the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway line, Jinan-Qingdao high-speed railway line, and other lines experienced varying degrees of delays, per CCTV News.

A number of scenic spots in Shandong have announced that they are also temporarily closed due to the impact of the blizzard. For example, Mount Tai scenic area suspended access to all hiking routes starting from 4 pm Saturday, with reopening times to be announced later, said on its official Wechat account on Saturday afternoon.

On the same day, however, Shanghai featured a completely opposite weather. Shanghai recorded its hottest early March in over 150 years on Saturday, as temperatures in the city center soared to 28 C, according to meteorological authorities in Shanghai.

At 2 pm on Sunday, the highest temperature at Xujiahui observatory in Shanghai reached 28.5 C, setting a new record for early March. Some suburban areas, such as Baoshan and Qingpu, recorded temperatures exceeding 29 C, according to local meteorological authorities.

Residents said it felt like "summer arrived in an instant." The meteorological authorities warned that rain and thunderstorms are likely on Monday, with temperatures expected to plummet by 15 degrees.

The Shanghai Meteorological Service said that warm and humid air currents would persist on Sunday.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Democracy is in danger, Michael Collins told us. It wasnt the anti-Treaty forces taking up arms against a Dail majority. This wasnt the eve of the Irish Civil War. It wasnt even that Michael Collins. It was the less-celebrated 2025 version. The Independent Ireland leader joined in on the hyperbole jamboree on the plinth of Leinster House last Wednesday night.
Things do need to change and right now the system isnt fair, said Cork Senator Nicole Ryan who has called for a reform of the Seanad.

Speaking in Seanad Eireann recently Senator Ryan said the upper house of the Oireachtas is meant to be a vital part of our democracy, but right now its outdated and unrepresentative. With limited power and a voting system that excludes most citizens, its clear we need real reform. A modern Seanad should be elected by all the voters, not just a privileged few.

Senator Ryan said the Seanad should be able to hold the government to account if necessary. It should hold the government accountable, not just act as a rubber stamp. If we want real democracy, we need a Seanad that works for everyone, not just insiders. Its time to push for change. The system right here right now is just unfair. It is in favour of other people. I feel very strongly about it.

The electoral process for Seanad Eireann is complicated. 60 members are elected to the upper house. 11 are nominated by the Taoiseach, six are elected by the Universities panel and the remaining 43 are selected from a complex series of panels by an electorate which includes the members of the new Dail, the outgoing Seanad and county councillors.

During the course of an emotional speech, Senator Ryan said the Seanad needs more political representatives from all sections of the community to be elected to represent people. I have for years never seen someone that looks like me or looks like Senator Eileen (Flynn) in the Seanad making decisions and talking about issues that affect me and affect people on the ground.

That really get it. Get what it is like to live in a marginalised, disadvantaged community, to be a migrant, to be from a different country, to be at a disadvantage at all levels and to actually make your way up here and to try and make a change. All of us of course will work together and that is fair enough and that is what we are here to do, she added.

There has to be a reform because this isnt the way it should be, said the Cork politician. It isnt just and it isnt fair. I think it is phenomenal that Senator Flynn is here and just to see people who represent regular people. Everybody can see themselves in certain senators and that is what we are here to do. We are here to represent normal every single day people. Things do need to change and right now the system isnt fair. Not at all.
Unions are meeting government for the second time in 18 months over disputes regarding pay parity

Audrey Buckley is a SIPTU activist and Health Care Assistant at one of the largest nursing facilities in Cork. She says that today has been spent anxiously waiting by the phone for news, with the Union now taking the strike action mandate to Government talks ongoing in Dublin.

Last Friday, workers under trade union SIPTU voted overwhelmingly - 96% to 4% - to commence strike action, over delays in the restoration of pay parity between those working in the public and private sector.

Unions SIPTU, Forsa, and the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation say that the Government failed to honour a pay agreement that was finalised at the Workplace Relations Commission in October 2023. Back then, strike action was called off just hours before it was due to begin, which included an 8% pay increase and a commitment to restore pay parity with the public sector.

However, Ms Buckley said that agreement was never fulfilled.

I was up in Dublin last Thursday counting the vote, and I actually got very emotional. For the last while weve been saying were going to stay positive but were all very emotional, were heartbroken.

We dont deserve this, and when I was counting the votes, I had a lump in my throat because I cant believe Im here again, counting votes from my colleagues that do exceptional work and give blood, sweat, and tears to the job. Its a very tough job, and I just cannot believe were here again.

Were waiting now for a phone call from the union this morning since 10am, when they went into talks. Were actually all living on our nerves at the moment, were on our phones, and the next thing will be strike action.

We wont be fools like we were in 2023, because we were let down there. Governments actions speak louder than words, and we wont be going back in.

Cork-native Buckley says that the current situation isnt fair for those in the private sector, and that the current action sets a precedent moving forward, for all of those working under Section 39.

Its not right, were being left down again and again and its not right.

We have no other option than to be doing this. And its not just for us, its for the organisation. When Im retired and well gone, its for the future of the same organisations under Sector 39.

We work with people who have Alzheimers, Dementia, in end-of-life care, and palliative care. During COVID the nursing homes were in dire straits and the government didnt give us a second thought, they all gave the clap to frontline workers outside the Dail, and now weve been completely forgotten again.

They pick and choose when were with them, and they pick and choose when were not.

Ive 20 years experience behind me now and somebody in the HSE at the moment with nine or 10 years is coming out with almost five euro more than me per hour than I am, even though I have more experience behind me.

Were doing the exact same work, and actually a job in a nursing home is a lot harder than a job in a hospital because at least in a hospital you have nurses, but the healthcare assistants are the heartbeat of any nursing home.

Our families dont understand why were not getting it, but Ive been in my job for 20 years, so I get it.

And the Health Care Assistant also says that they have been backed by the public. Theyve been so supportive, and they cant understand why the government arent looking after people (like us), the support has been overwhelming.

I think its one of the reasons Ive been so emotional, the support weve received has been just magic
An 81-year-old Cork woman has been left completely isolated without her mobile phone, internet and TV since October 2 last year because of difficulties with her broadband provider.

The case was highlighted at a recent full council meeting by Fine Gael councillor Sinead Sheppard as she appealed for greater assistance for vulnerable people and better mobile phone coverage in Cork County.

Cllr Sheppard also highlighted a second incident where a house alarm hasn't worked for an 83-year-old woman in Cobh since December 7 last year.

The motion was initially tabled by Independent councillor Finbarr Harrington who requested that Cork County Council would write to the Minister for Arts, Media, Communications, Culture and Sport Patrick ODonovan seeking his intervention in the ever deteriorating mobile phone coverage in many parts of County Cork.

Cllr Harrington said the issue of mobile phone coverage and service is an ongoing issue which has got progressively worse in the last six months. Umpteen people have been on to me about it. These are places that had good phone coverage in the past and for some reason the phone coverage has gone very poor especially in the last six months.

Another issue is calls are being dropped for no apparent reason. It is frustrating. People are paying big money for phone bills and they deserve better. I am asking that we write to the minister and ask him to intervene, he added.

Fine Gael councillor Michael Hegarty said representatives from the various mobile phone companies should address a development meeting because the problem is getting worse throughout Cork County.

Cllr Hegarty said it is important they account for themselves.

It would be very appropriate to bring them in, said Chief Executive Officer of Cork County Council Ms Moira Murrell. Ahead of that we will map the areas where we know difficulties in the county.

Fine Gael councillor Tony OShea who fully supported the motion said coverage is very bad in parts of Cork. I live within 20 miles of here (County Hall) and for 15 miles of that I have no coverage coming up to County Hall. We need them to come in and explain why this isnt improving. I am six years in the Council and there are no improvements to date.

Fine Gael councillor Sinead Sheppard said the issue was raised with her by two families at a recent clinic in Cobh. An 81-year-old woman living in the countryside has been without her mobile phone, internet and TV because it is all with Eir since October 2. Her son is now dealing with a customer resolution agent to try and get this sorted. She is completely isolated.

Cllr Sheppard also provided an example of another woman whose house alarm hasnt worked since December 7 last year. An 83-year-old woman living in the centre of town with Eir has no mobile phone, no TV and no house alarm working since December 7. She is using hotspot off one of her childrens laptops to get anything in the house. This isnt acceptable. These are elderly people vulnerable in their homes because of the likes of Eir. Who are they accountable to? she added

What can we do as elected representatives, said Cllr Sheppard. We are talking about vulnerable people without any access. That goes beyond people who are trying to work from home and have no internet access or no mobile phone companies. A strong letter to the minister is definitely needed. Let us invite them in.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Carroll agreed that the coverage is getting worse.

He said representatives from the various mobile phone companies should be invited in to explain the bad coverage.

It was unanimously agreed that letters would be sent to the various mobile phone companies inviting them to address a meeting in the foreseeable future about the deteriorating phone coverage throughout Cork County.
Jamie Diver was one of those killed

The funeral details for the two young men who were killed in a tragic crash in Co Donegal have been announced.

Teenager Shaun Martin McClafferty (17) and his friend Jamie Diver (20s) both died when their vehicle collided with the gable wall of a house in the townland of Baltoney, Gortahork, at around 9.30pm on Friday night.

Two other men were injured in the collision and are both in a serious condition in Letterkenny University Hospital and Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.

Jamie Diver of Baltoney, Gortahork, will be laid to rest on Wednesday.

His remains will repose at the Gortahork Funeral Home today, Monday, March 3, from 6pm until 9pm and tomorrow, Tuesday, March 4, from 12 noon until 3pm.

The family have requested that the wake be private from 3pm, followed by a private removal from the funeral home to Christ the King Church, Gortahork, for 7pm Rosary and to repose overnight.

Everyone is welcome at the church.

Requiem Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 5, at 11am with burial afterwards in the adjacent cemetery.

Mr Divers funeral notice reads, Predeceased by his grandparents Jimmy and Rose McGee and Nora Diver.

"Sadly missed by his heartbroken parents Roise and Damien, his brothers Ryan and Niamh and Keith, his nephew Charlie, his uncle Kevin and Amanda, his cousins Eibhlin and Neil and a circle of friends.

Tragic Shaun McClafferty who was fatally injured.

The late Mr McClafferty, also of Baltoney, Gortahork, will be laid to rest following a funeral service in the same church on Thursday.

A private removal from the Eternal Light Chapel of Rest, Mountain Top, Letterkenny, will take place on Monday, March 3 at 5pm, going to the family home in Baltoney, Gortahork.

The removal and wake is strictly private however, all are welcome to attend the funeral mass.

The funeral will be held in Teach Pobail Chriost Ri, Gortahork on Thursday, March 6, at 11am, with interment afterwards in the adjacent cemetery.

A funeral notice for Mr McClafferty posted online by Kieran Roarty Funeral Directors reads, Predeceased by his grandparents; John and Maire McClafferty, his aunt Cait McFadden and his papa Martin Darcy.

"Deeply regretted and sadly missed by his heartbroken parents; Michael and Sharon, sister Sara, nannie Sheila Darcy, aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family and friends."

Following the tragic crash, tributes have been paid to both men and their families.

In a tribute posted online, Errigal Motors Ltd said, I am truly heartbroken at the passing of my right hand man.

Our best friend, our number one, Jamie Diver.

Pleasant, helpful, loyal, cheerful, friendly, skilful, witty and hardworking are only some of the words that could be used when talking about Jamie.

One of life's true gentlemen. A wee gem.

He will be sorely missed by us all here and we will cherish all the memories we have of him and hold them dear.

We extend our deepest condolences to his parents, Roise and Damien and brothers Ryan and Keith and the extended family and huge circle of friends at this sad time.

We also extend our condolences to the McClafferty family on the passing of Shaun Martin.

"May they both rest in peace.

We are also thinking of those still in hospital and their families and they are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Cloughaneely Senior Band also paid tribute to the young men.

"Our hearts are broken for Roise and Sharon, our band members

We are devastated beyond words at the tragic loss of Jamie and Shaun Martin, no words can express the grief their families are enduring, and as a band and community, we stand with them in their sorrow.

Our thoughts are also with the two boys in hospital and their families during this difficult time.

"We are holding you all in our hearts and prayers.

As a band family, we are deeply sorry and devastated.

"Our deepest sympathies go to the Diver and McClafferty families during this heartbreaking time.

"We hold you in our thoughts and prayers and hope you find strength in the love and support of everyone around you.

May Jamie and Shaun Martin rest in peace.
Dublin Bus commuters face potential disruption as roughly 190 engineering operatives are taking part in industrial action over pay.

This work-to-rule, which began at 9pm last night, stems from a dispute over pay for bus maintenance workers.

Staff taking the action are involved in maintenance, overnight cleaning, and driving replacement buses to locations where a vehicle may have broken down.

The staff are members of SIPTU, which is looking for Dublin Bus to meet their claim for pay parity with their Traffic Operative colleagues.

Dublin Bus Engineering Operatives commenced industrial action at 9pm on Sunday, March 2, over the companys refusal to meet their claim for pay parity with their Traffic Operative colleagues, a statement from SIPTU said.

Engineering Operatives perform various maintenance and general tasks that are vital to ensuring buses are available to deliver public transport services.

Their industrial action will undoubtedly impact service delivery, and while this is regrettable, they have been left with no other option due to managements consistent refusal to recognise their skills and pay them properly, they added.

SIPTU says an independent review of the claim for pay parity was supported, but Dublin Bus disagree.

In November, the Labour Court said it couldnt see a reason to approve what would be a 14.5pc pay raise.

It also mentioned that both the company and the unions had agreed last March that any pay raises outside of regular pay increases would need to be self-funded.

However, SIPTU rejected Dublin Bus proposals for changes that they say could have led to higher productivity.

Since no agreement has been reached, employees started to take action last night as their night shifts began at 9pm at garages across Dublin.

While no major disruptions are expected in the first 24 hours, there may be some cancellations, starting Tuesday morning, due to buses not being ready or delays in replacements.

Further talks are expected to take place early this week.

An agreed independent external review of their role supported their pay parity claim, but Dublin Bus has failed to accept this, leaving our members with no choice but to pursue this through industrial action, SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Murphy said.

A Dublin Bus spokesperson said: Dublin Bus apologises for any delays caused to some customers due to the ongoing work-to-rule industrial action taken by engineering operatives since Sunday, March 2.

The matters in dispute were heard by the Labour Court on November 1, 2024, and a recommendation was then issued by the Labour Court on November 12.

This Labour Court recommendation was subsequently rejected at ballot by the engineering operatives grade. A ballot for industrial action was then taken, the outcome of which was the current work-to-rule.

Dublin Bus has arranged a meeting with the Trade Unions for Thursday, March 6, and has asked the Trade Unions to suspend their industrial action and engage in meaningful negotiations to bring an end to this dispute.
Thomas Street was temporarily closed to deal with the fire at Love Tempo

A popular Dublin bar has said they are all a bit shaken following the outbreak of a fire yesterday which was attended by Dublin Fire Brigade.

Love Tempo on Thomas Street posted on Instagram to thank everyone for their concern following a fire which engulfed the premises around 5.30pm.

Thank you so much to everyone for all your messages of concern regarding todays fire, they said.

Were all a bit shaken but just relieved nobody was hurt. It will take a while to assess the damage but unfortunately it looks like we will be closed for some time.

Thanks to Dublin Fire Brigade for their incredible work and to our amazing team for reacting so quickly.

Well keep you updated on any news as we have it. Much love, they added.

Six fire engines from Tara Street and Dolphins Barn fire stations responded to the fire which was described as serious on Thomas Street yesterday.

It is understood the blaze started in Love Tempo Bar, with Thomas Street becoming temporarily closed to allow emergency services to deal with the incident.

A spokesperson for Dublin Fire Brigade said: Firefighters from Tara Street and Dolphins Barn fire stations were called to a fire in a premises on Thomas Street today.

Breathing apparatus teams extinguished the fire, and a turntable ladder was on scene.

It was the first operational breathing apparatus wear for recruit firefighter Louise, they added.
Minister Norma Foley speaking to attendees at the five year anniversary event of RDI Hub in Killorglin.

Pictured at the RDI Hub 5 years in business event in Killorglin on Friday were (from left): Denis McCarthy, Fexco Chair, Tim Daly, head of strategy and university performance MTU, Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Liam Cronin, RDI Hub CEO, Niamh O Sullivan, director of devices at Kerry County Council, and Brendan O Donnell, registrar at MTU. Photo: Don MacMonagle

Former All-Ireland winning hurler Joe Canning was among the experts and leaders who attended an event celebrating the fifth anniversary of a centre that fuels business growth in Kerry last week.

RDI (Research Development Innovation) Hub marked its milestone last Friday at its base in Killorglin, where Galways Joe Canning spoke on leadership, communication and data in sport. Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Norma Foley, also talked to attendees.

Panel discussions on Artificial Intelligence featuring industry experts took place at the event, where RDI Hub CEO Liam Cronin and Fexco CEO Neil Hosty discussed future plans for the centre.

A report on the impact made by the centre was also published for the first time ever while RDI Hub, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland, also announced the 1 million Smart Regions AI Navigator programme.

The programme promises to enable SMEs to adopt and implement artificial intelligence solutions and at the event SMEs and startups from the southwest of Ireland shared their experiences of using their Smart Regions AI Navigator programme.

The Smart Regions AI Navigator programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-2027.

The anniversary event, running from 1pm to 4pm, also provided a great networking opportunity for local businesspeople, who look set to be supported by the innovative work of RDI Hub into the future.
St Patrick and pupils from Gaelscoil Lios Tuathail pictured launching the upcoming St Patrick's festivities in Listowel. Photo by John Kelliher.

Organisers of the upcoming St Patricks Day festivities in Listowel have expressed their excitement at what they have in store for the local community as the big weekend draws ever closer.

Taking place, of course on Monday March 17, there will be lots of activities taking place in the town square on the day as well as during the week leading up.

The theme for this years parade is Finscealta na hEireann The magic of Irish folklore and organisers said this week that they are hugely honoured that they will have Kerry FC leading their parade this year.

Events taking place in the lead up up to the national holiday include a Pop Up Gaeltacht that will take place on Friday March 16 in John B Keanes while there will also be traditional music on both Thursday the 15th and Friday the 16th in Christys bar.

The weekly Listowel parkrun will also hold a green mile in honour of St Patricks Day on Saturday, March 15 in the Listowel town park.

Finally, all of the local children are invited to participate in a colouring competition in An Gaelscoil on Wednesday March 12 at 6pm.

On the day of the parade there will be lots going on in the town square from 11am with face painting, balloon modelling, lots of childrens rides and food stalls.

There will also be a best dressed dog competition while there is a dance taking place in the Plaza from 3pm to 5.30pm.

<img alt="map visualization" src="https://public.flourish.studio/visualisation/21986170/thumbnail" style="width:100%" />

There will be a sensory area during the parade again this year. This will take place on Courthouse Road.

People found this a huge success last year and we are delighted to be able to facilitate it again at this years parade says Parade Chairperson Christy Walsh.

We look forward to seeing as many people as possible both participating in the parade and lining the streets to watch continued Christy.

If anybody is interested in participating in this years parade there are entry forms available in St. Johns theatre or Christys bar.
US President Donal Trump will receive a bowl of Kerry Shamrock for St Patrick's Day

Joe O'Leary in Cools Greenhouse in Ballinskelligs where all shamrock for official Government celebrations around the world is produced.

It has been a busy week in Ballinskelligs as local workers harvest this year's crop of shamrock in preparation for St Patrick's day festivities around the world.

It is shamrock grown in rural Kerry that is sent around the world to Irish Embassies and to the Defence Forces troops stationed across the globe as well as to Irish regiments in the British Army.

It is also this very shamrock that will be sent all the way from Kerry to the White House to be presented to President Donal Trump by Taoiseach Micheal Martin.

And the county is rightly proud of the role it plays in providing this symbol of Ireland for festivities around the world.

"There is a degree of pride, they say the harp is the national emblem but it is the shamrock too and there is privilege in being involved in the company that supplies the shamrock world-wide, said James O'Leary of IPI Teoranta  the company who for more than 30 years has overseen the growing, harvesting and distribution of the Irish plant.

The shamrock is grown in Cools Greenhouse in Ballinskelligs which interestingly is one of the oldest operating greenhouses in the country dating back to the 1960s.

In fact the history of the plant in Ballinskelligs is a long story but one that starts and continues with a group of forward thinking businessmen who wanted to grow the plant and began researching the best way to do so.

At the time UCD were carrying out research on how to grow shamrock and make it accessible to the market and this was to do so without soil. This technique was brought to Kerry with the plants now grown in hydrogel pots.

A company was formed and while some of those originally involved are no longer there, a few of the core group still remain.

The shamrock is also grown from the same seed source for the past 30 years.

And since its humble beginnings in rural Kerry, it has become the country's biggest supplier of shamrock providing the national plant for all official Governments business. Approximately 500 lapels to wear and about 250 bunches for gifts are sent out by the Irish Government.

The company also supplies all major supermarkets with the Kerry-grown plant.

"We have supplied a good few presidents over the past 25 years. We dont get close to them but it is a honour to do it, said Joe.

"We would have around half an acre growing which is about 70,000 pots and 100,000 bunches. We would be one of the biggest growers in the country.

This work is done by Cian Sugrue and his team who are busy all week harvesting the crop and getting it ready for this week to be sent around the world. There is a team of five full and part-time staff.

"We have a conscientious and hard-working team, sad Joe.

And of course they don't survive on shamrock alone they also grow spruce and native trees for Coillte when the symbolic plant is no longer in demand.
Sinn Fein spokesperson on Transport Pa Daly has slammed the government for presiding over yet another increase in the driving test backlog.

Speaking ahead of a Dail motion calling on government to implement a suite of measures to address this crisis, Deputy Daly said through bad planning and mismanagement successive Fianna Fail and Fine Gael-led governments had created a system that was not fit for purpose.

72,000 learner drivers are now languishing on waiting lists, with this figure having grown by 10,000 in the last three months alone. The average waiting time to take a test is now well above the statutory maximum of 10 weeks, with many people waiting six months to take the test and others over eight months. This is totally unacceptable, he said.

Deputy Daly said the delays are causing frustration in communities as they push up the costs of learning to drive and trap learner drivers in expensive insurance policies. He said that for some, learning to drive now costs over 3,000.

He added that backlogs lead to disruptions in vital services as students, or workers who rely on their licence, are waiting in limbo. As an example, Deputy Daly said there have been delays to the recruitment of Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus drivers as well as to paramedics as they require a licence to start their course.

There are not enough permanent driving instructors and many areas are without a permanent, let alone temporary test centre. The government has completely failed to keep pace with increasing demand. This must change. Sinn Fein has developed a suite of measures to address these unacceptable delays, he said.

We are calling on them to match the increased demand for driving tests with appropriate resources. This means ending the over-reliance on temporary driving instructors and expediting the recruitment of permanent instructors. The unsatisfactory performance of the Road Safety Authority cant be ignored in all of these. Therefore, we are calling for an urgent review of the mandate, resourcing and programme of work, he added.

Lastly, Deputy Daly said the government must once and for all identify all the gaps in driving test centre locations and mandate the RSA and the OPW to fill them.

The deepening crisis requires the political will, ambition and resourcing to solve it. Just like the crisis in housing, healthcare and the cost of living, more of the same from Fianna Fail and Fine Gael will only make matters worse, he said.
Woodco Renewable Energy, a leading Tipperary-based provider of biomass heating and commercial solar PV solutions, has confirmed the appointment of Kilkenny man, Adrian Costigan, as its new managing director.

With over 20 years of experience in energy, sustainability, and technology innovation, Adrian, a native of Ballyfoyle in Co Kilkenny who has returned home after years in the United Arab Emirates, has a proven track record in leading commercial strategy and scaling clean technology businesses in Ireland and overseas, primarily in Dubai.

Before joining Woodco, which is headquartered in Donaskeigh in Tipperary, he served as Chief Commercial Officer at Waterford-based NEG8 Carbon, where he played a key role in commercialising Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology for carbon removal.

As managing director, Adrian will lead the expansion of Woodcos biomass and solar energy divisions, focusing on increasing commercial adoption, driving product innovation, and strengthening partnerships in key markets, among them agriculture, construction, education, healthcare, manufacturing and pharma.

He will also reinforce Woodcos commitment to delivering reliable, low-carbon heating and energy solutions for businesses and communities.

Woodco has built a strong reputation in the renewable energy sector, and I look forward to working with the team to build on that success and grow the business further, said Adrian.

Adrians experience in project execution and commercialising clean technologies makes him the ideal leader to drive Woodcos next phase of growth and innovation in the renewable energy sector, added Chris OCallaghan, Chairperson of Woodco Renewable Energy.

Woodco Renewable Energy is a provider of biomass heating and commercial solar PV solutions. With nearly two decades of experience, the company manufactures and supplies biomass boilers across Ireland, the UK, Europe, North America, and New Zealand.
Warning that acts of criminal thuggery won't be tolerated

Any acts of criminal thuggery that have been displayed by members of the Defence Forces in the past will not be tolerated," Brig Gen Stephen Ryan said at a passing out parade at Aiken Barracks, Dundalk on Friday.

The General Officer Commanding 2 Brigade made the comment as 45 members of the 68 2 Star Platoon marked the end of their training with a passing out parade. He also warned them not to indulge in drunken behaviour, illegal drugs or crimination activities, saying that they would find themselves out of the defence forces.
Visiting delegation will report to the parliament and its committees, and support the proposal to fund the project

MEPs from the European Parliaments Committee on Regional Development pictured at Athenry Railway Station on Tuesday 25th Feb 2025 (L-R): Raul De La Hoz Quintano (Spain), Lubica Karvasova (Slovakia), Ciaran Mullooly (IRL), Maria Walsh (IRL) and Paulo Roberto Do Nascimento Cabral (Portugal). Pic: John Corless.

A visiting delegation of MEPs from the European Parliaments Committee on Regional Development (REGI) has strongly supported the further development of the Western Rail Corridor from Galway to Sligo.

The delegation, hosted by local MEPs Ciaran Mullooly and Maria Walsh, and led by Ms. Lubica Karvasova, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Regional Development, visited Athenry on Tuesday, where they held discussions on the potential use of EU funding to improve the connectivity of the North-West region.

Rail infrastructure is the backbone of regional development, MEP Karvasova said, and the timing of the visit is crucial because the parliament will be formulating its budgets over the next few months, for the next cohesion policy.

If the European Union wants to be competitive on the world stage, it all starts at local level, she said. The railway will be an enabler for proper regional development. We found the visit very informative and we will report to the parliament and its committees, and support the proposal to fund the project.

Speaking after the meeting, Portuguese MEP Paulo Roberto do Nascimento Cabral, said that the Western Rail Corridor would enhance the development of all the north-west region of Ireland.

The rail project will establish enterprise opportunities and will speed up the delivery of progress to the region, he said.

It will help retain qualified young people in the region. This project is an excellent example of what needs to be delivered to connect all of Europe.

This comprehensive approach will create jobs. The north Atlantic face of Europe is strategically very important for the integral operation of the European Union. Connectivity to the ports is vital too, MEP do Nascimento Cabral added.

Before arriving in Athenry the delegation had travelled in heavy traffic from Galway to Oranmore railway station where they noted the car park overflowing on to adjacent roads. The station, opened as part of the Western Rail Corridor in 2013, is now to be doubled in size in order to meet soaring passenger demand. Galway County Council recently approved planning permission for the installation of a passing loop which will double the capacity of the Athenry-Galway section of the line.

The station visit was followed by a presentation by local Councillor Peter Feeney on behalf of West on Track in the Raheen Woods Hotel, highlighting the need for balanced regional development and the potential use of EU funding to help reopen the entire rail corridor.

Also in attendance were Junior Minister Marian Harkin and the Chief Executive of Sligo County Council, Martin Lydon.

If transport infrastructure is not upgraded, the North West region will continue to lag even further behind the more developed Eastern and Southern regions, Councillor Feeney said.

For example, there are there are more students between Galway and Sligo today than in all of Ireland 40 years ago, but there is currently no rail connectivity for students along the entire 258km route from ATU Letterkenny to ATU Galway.

Stressing the urgency of enhanced regional development, Ciaran Mullooly MEP expressed his full support for the extension of the rail link from Galway to Sligo and said that the EU can be critical in its delivery. This was why they had invited the visiting delegation to come to the west to see the situation for themselves.

Maria Walsh MEP said that this was the kind of project that fitted exactly with the committees brief. She was confident that the next phase of the railway would be getting under way shortly and that it made sense that planning for its continuation to Sligo should also be happening.

Speaking after the meeting, Portuguese MEP Paulo Roberto Do Nascimento Cabral, said that the Western Rail Corridor would enhance the development of all the north-west region of Ireland.

The rail project will establish enterprise opportunities and will speed up the delivery of progress to the region, he said.

It will help retain qualified young people in the region. This project is an excellent example of what needs to be delivered to connect all of Europe.

This comprehensive approach will create jobs. The north Atlantic face of Europe is strategically very important for the integral operation of the European Union. Connectivity to the ports is vital too, he added.

Over a three-day period, the delegation also visited Galway Port and other projects funded by the EU cohesion policy and related programmes in several counties and met local authorities and other stakeholders to understand their vision for the economic and social development of their region.
Former Midlands-Northwest MEP Chris MacManus has been selected by Sinn Fein to lead the party in County Sligo.

Delegates from across Sligo endorsed MacManus as Chairperson of the partys Comhairle Ceantair for the forthcoming year at its recent AGM held in Sligo. The former MEP and four-time councillor, contested the recent 2024 General Election alongside Martin Kenny, receiving almost 7,000 votes and seeing Sinn Fein polling to become the second-largest party in County Sligo.

Following his election as Cathaoirleach of the Comhairle Ceantair MacManus said:

Im honoured to lead Sligo Comhairle Ceantair over the year ahead. This is an important time for Sligo Sinn Fein, full of opportunity and challenges.

People are clearly demanding political change with increasing urgency.

The present government does not represent change, only more of the same policies which have failed our people and our communities for the previous five years.

County Sligo has long suffered from the failure of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael governments. Regional imbalance and rural decline are some of the great failures of successive administrations.

The North West region has suffered from this neglect. For far too long, this part of Ireland has been left behind. The neglect runs deep, affecting every aspect of life in communities - infrastructure, roads, healthcare services, public transport, broadband connectivity.

Ireland and Sligo need new political leadership with the right priorities and ideas to meet challenges head-on and to realise the big opportunities for Ireland. Regionally, I intend to be part of leading that change.

I believe we can build a future where housing is secure and affordable for every family; a future where healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and where public services are accessible to all. The discussion on Irish unity has accelerated and Sinn Fein wants to see a government which makes serious and responsible preparation for constitutional change on the island.

My job will be to ensure that Sinn Fein across Sligo is there to respond to the issues affecting people and is organised and ready to increase our political representation at local and national level. I look forward to the challenge.
Three teams from Colaiste Bride Enniscorthy are set to illuminate the runway of the the Junk Kouture Regional Final, which takes place on Wednesday, March 5.

Golden Vintage was inspired by Schiaparellis Spring 2023 collection and was designed by Ava Dobbs Doyle, Caoimhe Moore and Roisin Sinnott and modelled by Caoimhe Moore. The outfit is made from broken Christmas baubles found in a local GAA clubhouse while the students were doing community work early in the year. The baubles were smashed, filed by hand into shape and sewn on to wire to create a gem-filled lattice structure for the top.

Over 30 woven band strapping squares and squares of old blue work shirts were strengthened and hand sewn into the on-trend parallel trousers. A gold tubular insert was then used to accessorize the model's hair.

Rapture of the Rings, the next striking dress designed by Leah O Brien Millar and Eva Sinnott and was modelled by Leah, was made from hundreds of coloured curtain rings collected from family, friends and charity shop curtain donations. The rings were looped together to create a fishtail style skirt and layered with bale wrap from a local farm to create texture on the top, shoulder piece and headpiece.

Finally, Blathanna Bloom portrays the process of growing up and the many changes going from childhood to adolescence brings with it. From a simple spring bud blooms a beautiful flower, as captured in the movement of the dress.

The designers repurposed old bedlinen, old bibs and coffee pods to create their dress. It is designed by Luana Rodrigues, Ava Edwards, Evelyn Dunne and modelled by Luana Rodrigues.

Students Sienna Howe and Stephanie O Connor also attended the Junk Kouture World Final on Monday March 3 in Dublin with their dress made out of Ugandan Mutaba tree along with 2,500 beads hand quilled from old books.
IFA President Francie Gorman with, Selena McKenzie, Incoming chair of Wicklow IFA, Chairperson Wicklow IFA Tom Byrne and Adrian Gallagher, IFA sheep chair, launching IFAs 2025 No Dogs Allowed campaign in Newcastle, Co Wicklow.

Outgoing Wicklow IFA chair Tom Byrne has emphasised the importance of the associations new No Dogs Allowed campaign and echoed his IFA colleagues calls for a robust series of measures to prevent sheep kills.

First introduced in 2021, this years campaign was launched in Newcastle, Co Wicklow, by IFA president Francie Gorman, who highlighted how, despite continuous appeals for action, neither the government nor local authorities has done enough to address dog attacks or recognise the deepening issue of dog attacks on livestock.

The measures proposed by the IFA to address the issue include a single national database for all dogs and the full enforcement of micro-chipping and licensing obligations, stronger powers of enforcement for dog wardens and gardai, and increased on-the-spot fines and sanctions for failing to have a dog under control.

The IFA are also seeking significant on-the-spot fines for dogs found worrying livestock, a legal requirement for dogs to be micro-chipped and licensed and identified on the NVPS (National Veterinary Prescribing System) and the application of legislative obligations to dogs in border regions owned by persons not resident in the state.

Backing these measures, Tom Byrne said its a critical time of the year when lambing begins and reminded dog owners that dogs are not allowed on or near farmland, adding that they are liable for damage done and to behave responsibly.

It is important to remind dog owners they are fully liable for any damages caused to farmers and their livestock and dogs found on our lands can be shot, he said.

It is incumbent on dog owners that theyre aware of the damage their pet can do, and that they will have to pay compensation to sheep farmers for the loss. Dog owners will lose their family pet and have a substantial bill to pay to compensate the farmers.

There are no winners. Neither the dog owner, the dog, nor the sheep farmer.

Dog owners need to have their dogs under control, but they also need to know where they are at all times, as dogs are clever enough to cross two sheep flocks and kill far away from home.

It is a critical time of the year when ewes are heavily pregnant and very vulnerable, and the losses can be absolutely immense, he continued.

There have been several dog kills recently that were horrific, and too graphic to give details about.

Sheep farmers are at their wits end with kill after kill after kill. Not only in Wicklow, but right across the country.

For the last four years, in my reign, weve concentrated heavily on trying to bring awareness to the public about how dangerous dogs are and the amount of damage theyre doing with the sheep flock of Ireland. We have beseeched dog owners to keep their dogs under control when theyre out walking in the country.

Were quite disillusioned at this stage. We have worked so hard to raise awareness of the dangers that dogs can do, and we feel like were banging our heads off a stone wall and not getting anywhere.

Quite honestly, the feeling among farmers is that were going to have to be more proactive and take a stronger line on the whole issue.

To that end, we have this campaign to say, know where your dog is, your pet can and will kill.
Deputy Jennifer Whitmore has reiterated her call for the establishment of a neurorehabilitation centre in west Wicklow, highlighting the ongoing delays and lack of progress as a significant failure of the government.

Funding for a neurorehabilitation team for West Wicklow was approved in 2018, but there appears to have been no movement since.

Deputy Whitmore has been advocating for the crucial service for the past number of years. She has asked the HSE for updates on multiple occasions, the latest of which saw her informed that the staff for the centre had been approved, but no opening date was provided.

This is not good enough, said Deputy Whitmore. The funding for a neurorehabilitation team for west Wicklow was approved in 2018 and since then we have seen delay after delay with no explanation. The people of west Wicklow have been waiting years for this service and I called on Stephen Donnelly, when he was Minister for Health, to deliver on this promise for his constituents, but my calls clearly fell on deaf ears.

"We currently have two community neurorehabilitation teams in Ireland, despite the National Neurorehabilitation Strategy's Implementation Framework (2019-2021) outlining the need for nine teams. This means that only 15 percent of neurological patients in Ireland have access to the vital care they need to support their recovery," Ms. Whitmore continued. I supported the Neurological Alliance of Ireland (NAI) campaign for neurorehabilitation centre in 2023 and I am so disappointed at the continued inaction.

The issue is not only being felt by residents of west Wicklow, but also people living in Kildare, Dublin West, Dublin South City, and Dublin South West, who are all waiting on the same service to finally be delivered.

"If a stroke patient is discharged from hospital and has no supports in their community, their recovery is seriously threatened," added Deputy Whitmore. "Aftercare is crucial for recovery, and the lack of community support services is a glaring issue. My office attended an Oireachtas briefing with the HSE last week to discuss integrated health areas and raised this issue during the meeting to request a timeline. Unfortunately, they couldnt give us a timeline or additional information on the spot and they are yet to provide us with this timeline.
The scheduled completion of the Coach House aspect of the Abbey Grounds project in Wicklow town has been moved back to a date in April due to poor weather causing delays in securing ESB connections.

In May of 2021, agreement was reached over the transfer of the Abbey Grounds to Wicklow County Council, after parishioners were asked for their input, following on from an allocation from Failte Ireland to Wicklow County Council. The plan is to develop the Abbey Grounds into an event space so it acts as more of a multi-functional public space.

Second fix electrical works were due to commence on March 3, and detailed designs for the Amphitheatre and performance area are still being progressed.

Siberian Larch finish for new buildings has now been installed and works to the new entrance to the parochial house are now complete. Fr Duffy is thanked for his cooperation throughout the process.

Civil works to install footpaths and ducting for services and drainage in the park area commenced on Friday, February 28,following the appointment of Clonerkin as contractor. Works will be carried out in cooperation with local authority staff.

Conservation and restoration works to existing footbridge at Abbey grounds were completed at the end of September. Similar works for pedestrian entrance and ramp to Wentworth Place access were completed in December.
Claire Sweeney has praised her on-screen co-star Bill Roache ahead of upcoming scenes in Coronation Street (Ian West/PA)

Coronation Street actress Claire Sweeney has said she became tearful after acting alongside soap star William Roache in a dramatic scene.

The 53-year-old English actress, who plays Cassie Plummer, praised Roache for an emotional performance where his character Ken Barlow finds out what Cassie has been up to.

In the scene, Cassie comes clean to Ken for slipping anti-histamines into his drink in order to steal from him.

William Roache has been praised by his co-star for upcoming Coronation Street scenes (Ian West/PA)

Discussing the moment, Sweeney commended her 92-year old scene partner, calling his performance award-winning.

Speaking about Roache, Sweeney said: Its an award-winning performance. It literally made me cry, he was so wonderful, so to do those scenes with Bill, who is a legend on screen, was just sensational.

He did this very very dramatic scene and at the end, the crew, there was silence, and then he got a round of applause.

I was bloody tearful, and I thought, God, he is wonderful. I hope he gets recognised for this. He is brilliant.

Claire Sweeney plays Cassie on the Cobbles (Ian West/PA)

Sweeney first joined the Cobbles cast in 2023, taking on the role of Cassie, who becomes a carer for Ken.

In recent episodes, viewers have watched Cassies antics unfold as she gets caught lacing Kens drinks with antihistamines in an attempt to make him drowsy and reliant on her.

She also took it as an opportunity to steal from him by making expensive purchases using his credit card until eventually Ken finds out and confronts her.

The actress added: There was a sense of relief because she couldnt have just carried on the way she was so with Cassie there was always going to come to a head and there has to be a bit of a redemption arch with the character.

Sweeney is best known for her playing Lindsey Corkhill in Brookside along with starring in West End productions of Chicago and Guys And Dolls.

She also appeared on the 2024 series of Dancing On Ice and was paired with skater Colin Grafton.

Her scene partner, Bill Roache, whose full name is William Roache, is the longest-serving cast member on the soap, playing Ken Barlow since the first episode aired in 1960.

Sweeney has also described Cassie as a joy to play, saying that she is not a one dimensional character.

She added: The stuff that theyve written for her has been absolutely brilliant. But its the vulnerability mixed with the streak of evil and the fieriness, and they give her a lot of comedy lines as well, so she is a joy to play.

I just love playing her because shes funny, shes a bit evil, shes vulnerable, and she is just an absolute joy to play.
The child narrator for Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone is the son of Ayman Alyazouri, who has worked as Hamass deputy minister of agriculture (Ian West/PA)

Ofcom has warned it has ongoing concerns about the nature and gravity of a BBC documentary on Gaza which featured the son of a Hamas official.

In a letter to the BBC, Ofcom chairman Lord Grade also warned that the regulator could intervene to handle a complaint if it is not satisfied with the corporations internal investigation.

An internal review by the broadcaster found that the child narrator for Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone is the son of Ayman Alyazouri, who has worked as Hamass deputy minister of agriculture.

People take part in a protest outside the BBCs Broadcasting House in central London (Ben Whitley/PA)

The letter to BBC chairman Samir Shah comes as BBC director-general Tim Davie is set to be questioned by MPs during a Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee hearing on the work of the corporation.

It also comes after the Metropolitan Police said officers from the Mets Counter Terrorism Command are currently assessing whether any police action is required in relation to the documentary.

Lord Grade wrote: The BBC has publicly acknowledged there were serious failings in the production of this programme which have raised important questions that the BBC must answer.

Ofcom has ongoing concerns about the nature and gravity of these failings and the negative impact they have on the trust audiences place in the BBCs journalism.

It is crucial that the causes of those errors are investigated, and that systems are put in place to ensure they cannot recur.

He also noted that in exceptional circumstances, Ofcom may intervene to handle and resolve a complaint which has not been resolved by the BBC.

Lord Grade, who said Ofcom is waiting on the BBC to complete its investigations, added: We expect the investigation into complaints being led by the Editorial Complaints Unit and the fact-finding review led by Peter Johnston to be conducted as thoroughly as possible, and with the full scrutiny of the BBC Board.

We will continue to keep the situation under close review and will expect regular updates from the BBC regarding both timeframes and progress and reserve the right to use our powers to step in should we feel it necessary to do so, given that the BBC Board has decided these to be internal investigations.

The BBC has said independent production company Hoyo Films, which made the documentary, told the broadcaster that the boys mother had been paid a limited sum of money for the narration.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy met Dr Shah on Friday after saying she wanted assurances that no stone will be left unturned during a review into the documentary.

A BBC spokesman previously said serious flaws in the making of this programme had been identified.

He added: Some of these were made by the production company and some by the BBC; all of them are unacceptable.

BBC News takes full responsibility for these and the impact that these have had on the corporations reputation. We apologise for this.

Nothing is more important than the trust that our audiences have in our journalism. This incident has damaged that trust.

While the intent of the documentary was aligned with our purpose  to tell the story of what is happening around the world, even in the most difficult and dangerous places  the processes and execution of this programme fell short of our expectations.

Although the programme was made by an independent production company, who were commissioned to deliver a fully compliant documentary, the BBC has ultimate editorial responsibility for this programme as broadcast.

The spokesman said one of the core questions was around the family connections of the young boy who is the narrator of the film and the production company was asked in writing a number of times by the BBC about any potential connections he and his family might have with Hamas.

A BBC spokesperson said: Since transmission, they have acknowledged that they knew that the boys father was a deputy agriculture minister in the Hamas government; they have also acknowledged that they never told the BBC this fact.

After the discovery about Abdullah Al-Yazouri, who speaks about life in the territory amid the war between Israel and Hamas, the BBC added a disclaimer to the programme, and later removed it from its online catch-up service, saying it had no plans to broadcast the programme again.

Last week, protesters gathered outside Broadcasting House in London claiming the BBC had aired Hamas propaganda.

The BBC also faced criticism in pulling the documentary, with Gary Lineker, Anita Rani, Riz Ahmed and Miriam Margolyes among more than 500 media figures who had condemned the action.

In an open letter addressed to Mr Davie, Dr Shah and outgoing chief content officer Charlotte Moore, hundreds of TV and film professionals and journalists called the decision to remove the documentary politically motivated censorship.
Russell Brand, the disgraced comedian and actor, is being sued over sex abuse allegations in the first-known lawsuit brought against him in the UK.

An anonymous claimant has lodged a personal-injury sexual abuse case for damages at Londons High Court, according to reports. No further details of the lawsuit are available.

The court records were first cited by the Reuters news agency last month.

Brand (49) is currently the subject of a police investigation into alleged historic sex offences. He vehemently denies any wrongdoing.

Scotland Yard launched an investigation in 2023 following a complaint from a woman who claimed she was sexually assaulted by Brand in central London 20 years ago.

It later emerged Brand had also been questioned by police in connection with six further alleged historic sex offences.

The Crown Prosecution Service has been passed a file by the Metropolitan Police to consider a charging decision in Brands case.

It is also understood that Brand has been interviewed by police on three separate occasions.

A BBC report published in January found that staff felt unable to complain about Brand because of the culture at Radio 2 and Radio 6 Music.

It said junior employees feared being removed from programmes if they raised concerns about the star, who presented shows on both stations.

Allegations in the report included that Brand exposed himself in the studio, urinated into cups or bottles, threw objects in anger and  according to his memoir  had sex with a competition winner in an accessible toilet.

Peter Johnston, the BBC director of editorial complaints and reviews, investigated reports of Brands conduct from 2006 to 2008. He formally apologised to those affected on behalf of the broadcaster.
LATEST | European leaders join forces to draft Ukraine peace plan to take to US

Europe must boost defence spending, says von der LeyenUK, France and Ukraine to present peace deal to TrumpZelensky meets King Charles at his residenceMacron says deal would be a ceasefire for air and sea combat

Volodymyr Zelensky, Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron hold a meeting during a Leaders' Summit on the situation in Ukraine at Lancaster House, London. Pic: PA

Elizabeth Piper, Kate Holton and Andrew MacAskill Sun 2 Mar 2025 at 23:51







British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday European leaders had agreed to draw up a Ukraine peace plan to present to the United States, a vital step for Washington to be able to offer security guarantees that Kyiv says are essential to deter Russia.
Coalition of the willing to present US with new plan for Ukraine peace deal

Focus on increased European defence spending as leaders rally around Volodymyr Zelensky

King Charles III meeting Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. Photo: Joe Giddens/PA

Elizabeth Piper, Kate Holton and Andrew MacAskill Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 03:30







UK prime minister Keir Starmer said yesterday European leaders had agreed to draw up a Ukraine peace plan to take to the United States, a vital step for Washington to be able to offer security guarantees Kyiv says are vital to deter Russia.
LATEST | Israel faces criticism after stopping supplies entering Gaza

Mediators Egypt and Qatar accused Israel of violating humanitarian law by using starvation as a weapon in a bid to extend the ceasefireFour trucks carrying aid supplied by Ireland among those halted

Israel faces criticism after stopping supplies entering Gaza

Tia Goldenberg, Tabitha Monahan and Samy Magdy Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 07:27







Israel has faced sharp criticism after it stopped the entry of all food and other supplies into Gaza on Sunday and warned of additional consequences for Hamas if a fragile ceasefire is not extended.
President Donald Trump will sing a far different tune in his prime-time address before Congress tomorrow night. Some Americans will lustily sing along. Others will plug their ears.

If in past speeches Mr Trump felt the need to ask lawmakers to pass his agenda, he has totally dispensed with such niceties . He has forcefully asserted his authority to reshape the federal government without needing to consult the legislative branch. Thats a break from his previous remarks to Congress in which he specifically sought lawmakers' backing on many of the actions he's now taking unilaterally.
On-the-run Irishman arrested in New York accused of conning $850k from elderly woman

Elijah Gavin, also known as Timothy OReilly is alleged to be part of a gang that defrauded home owners of over $1 million

Elijah Gavin's New York driver's licence photo

Eamon Dillon Mon 3 Mar 2025 at 23:00







An Irishman who was on-the-run from prison has been arrested in New York on charges of conning $850,000 from an elderly woman in a home repair scam.
Oscars 2025: The Academy Awards have always been a place where international films get recognition. Countries like Italy and France have been top winners in the Best International Feature Film category. Italy has won 14 times, including three honorary awards, while France has won 9 times. Other countries like Japan, Spain, and Sweden have also done well. Japan has won 2 times, and Spain 4 times and Sweden have each won 3 times.

In 2025, the Oscars continue to feature movies from all over the world. This year, films like Emilia Perez and Cloud are competing for top awards.

Oscars 2025: International Feature Film Winners

The 97th Academy Awards took place on March 2, 2025, and honored a variety of films from different countries. The Brazilian film I'm Still Here made history by winning the Best International Feature Film award. It became Brazil's first Oscar in this category.

Walter Salles #ImStillHere is an incredibly powerful, poignant and moving exploration of the atrocities committed by the military dictatorship in Brazil.



Beautifully directed, the film is a harrowing retelling of a true life story. Fernanda Torres is a tour de force! pic.twitter.com/U1lqvU9nbs  Phil Roberts (@philthecool) January 28, 2025

This film, directed by Walter Salles, is based on a true story from the 1970s during Brazil's military dictatorship.

Countries Won The Most Academy Awards for International Feature Film {1948 to 2024}

Rank Submitting country Number of winning films 1 Italy 11 2 France 9 3 Spain 4 3 Denmark 4 5 The Netherlands 3 5 Sweden 3 5 Soviet Union 3 5 Germany 3 9 Japan 2 9 Switzerland 2 9 Hungary 2 9 Argentina 2 9 Austria 2 9 Czechoslovakia 2 15 Iran 1 15 Algeria 1 15 Canada 1 15 West Germany 1 15 Bosnia and Herzegovina 1 15 Ivory Coast 1 15 Finland 1 15 South Africa 1 15 Taiwan 1 15 South Korea 1

Drive My Car

Parasite

Sources: statistaJapan has won the Best International Feature Film award twice in recent years, includingin 2023. South Korea'smade history in 2020 by winning four major awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best International Feature Film.

Country with the Most Oscar Wins Overall

The United States has won the most Oscars in history. So far, it has received over 3,000 Academy Awards, much more than any other country. This is because the U.S. makes and submits many movies every year.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
Shab-e-Qadr 2025 in India: Laylat Al Qadr, also known as Shab-e-Qadr, is the 27th night of Ramadan and is expected to be observed on 28 March 2025 in India. People following the Pakistani Lunar calendar can also observe it on the same date. However, the exact date of Laylat Al Qadr 1447 Hijri depends on the sighting of the Ramadan moon worldwide. It is believed to fall on any odd night in the last ten days of Ramadan. In Pakistan, Laylat Al Qadr 2025 is also expected on 28 March, but the final date may vary based on moon sighting.

Traditionally, Muslims seek Laylatul Qadr on the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan, which are the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, and 29th nights. The 27th night is commonly observed as Shab-e-Qadr,

What is Shab-e-Qadr?

Shab-e-Qadr is the night when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first verses of the Quran. It is a very special and holy night in Islam. On this night, prayers are accepted, and sins are forgiven.

Muslims around the world celebrate this night with great devotion. They pray, read the Quran, and do charity to seek blessings from Allah. Many people stay awake all night, asking for forgiveness and making special prayers.

Dates and Timings for Shab-e-Qadr 2025

Expected Date: Thursday, March 28, 2025

Timing: The night starts after sunset on March 27 and continues until dawn on March 28.

The exact date of Shab-e-Qadr depends on the sighting of the moon, as the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle.

How to Celebrate Shab-e-Qadr 2025?

Shab-e-Qadr is observed with special prayers and devotion. Here are the main ways Muslims celebrate this holy night:

Prayer: Muslims spend the night praying at home or in mosques. They perform extra prayers like Tahajjud (night prayer) and Tarawih (special Ramadan prayer).

Recitation of the Quran: Since the Quran was revealed on this night, reading its verses is highly recommended.

Charity and Good Deeds: Giving charity, helping the needy, and performing good deeds are encouraged, as rewards for these actions are believed to be multiplied.

Itikaf: Some Muslims stay in mosques for the last ten days of Ramadan to worship and spiritual growth.

Seeking Forgiveness: This night is considered a time when sins are forgiven. People pray for themselves, their loved ones, and even those who have passed away.

In Shia communities, extra prayers like the Iftitah Supplication and al-Jawshan al-Kabir are performed. They also hold the Quran while making special prayers.

Significance of Shab-e-Qadr 2025

This night is believed to be full of blessings and forgiveness, so Muslims try to spend it in devotion and worship.

Shab-e-Qadr is a special night when prayers are answered, and sins are forgiven. It is believed to bring great spiritual blessings.

This night brings Muslims together as they pray and worship, strengthening their bond as a community.

It is a time to think about one's actions, seek forgiveness, and renew commitment to faith and good values.

FAQs

1. What is Shab-e-Qadr?

Answer: Shab-e-Qadr, or the "Night of Power," is a holy night in Islam when the Quran was first revealed.

2. When is Shab-e-Qadr in 2025?

Answer: In India, Shab-e-Qadr is expected to be on the night of March 27, 2025.

3. How do Muslims celebrate Shab-e-Qadr?

Answer: Muslims pray, read the Quran, give charity, and ask for forgiveness throughout the night.

4. Why is Shab-e-Qadr special?

Answer: It is believed that prayers on this night bring great rewards, and sins are forgiven.

5. Can women and children take part in Shab-e-Qadr?

Answer: Yes, women and children can pray, read the Quran, and seek blessings at home or in mosques.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
World Wildlife Day 2025: World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on March 3 to spread awareness about protecting animals, plants, and nature. In 2025, the theme is "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet," This highlights the need for better funding to save wildlife.

The United Nations started this day in 2013 by signing an important agreement called CITES in 1973. This basically helps control the trade of endangered species. This day reminds us to take action against threats like habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.

Date and Theme of World Wildlife Day 2025

Date: March 3, 2025

March 3, 2025 Theme: "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet"

This theme shows how important it is to invest money in saving wildlife and nature. It helps protect animals, plants, and ecosystems to have a better future for both nature and humans.

History of World Wildlife Day

World Wildlife Day was started by the United Nations in 2013, signing of an important agreement called CITES on March 3, 1973. CITES helps control the international trade of wild animals and plants to protect them from extinction.

Significance of World Wildlife Day

This day reminds people around the world about the urgent need to protect nature, stop wildlife crimes, and use resources responsibly. It highlights the importance of keeping ecosystems healthy and supporting conservation efforts for our future generations.

Wildlife is in danger due to habitat loss, climate change, illegal hunting, and pollution. To protect animals and nature, we need quick action and smart financial plans to support conservation efforts.

World Wildlife Day 2025: Celebrations and Awareness

World Wildlife Day 2025 will include global events, educational programs, and discussions on funding for wildlife conservation. The main event will take place at the UN Palais des Nations in Geneva and will be streamed online for people worldwide.

Wishes for World Wildlife Day 2025

May our actions today help create a healthy planet for the future. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets come together to protect the beauty of nature. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Wishing for a future where wildlife and people live in harmony. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our love for animals and nature inspire everyone to protect them. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Together, we can make the world a better place for all living beings. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets celebrate life on Earth and work towards a greener future. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our children grow up in a world filled with amazing wildlife. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets invest in nature today for a brighter and safer tomorrow. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Wishing for a world where all animals and humans live peacefully. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our voices be strong in the fight to save wildlife. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets protect our planets natural treasures for the future. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May every step we take lead us towards a sustainable and green future. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets appreciate and protect the beautiful diversity of life on Earth. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Wishing for a world where wildlife is safe and free from harm. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our efforts today help preserve natures beauty for generations to come. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets join hands to protect wildlife and keep our planet healthy. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Celebrating the richness of nature and the wonders of wildlife. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our love for nature inspire positive action for wildlife conservation. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Wishing for a future where both humans and wildlife flourish together. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets take action every day to protect and conserve wildlife. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our voices and actions help save endangered species. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets cherish and protect our planets wildlife heritage. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

May our efforts create a healthier environment for all living beings. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Wishing for a world where saving wildlife is everyones priority. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

Lets celebrate and protect life in all its forms for a better future. Happy World Wildlife Day 2025!

World Wildlife Day is important because it helps spread awareness about the dangers to nature. It also encourages efforts to protect wildlife, and brings people together worldwide to save ecosystems for future generations.

For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
Emilia Perez star Karla Sofia Gascon skipped the 2025 Oscars red carpet on Sunday amid her ongoing controversy owing to her past tweets. Despite the criticism, Netflix supported her attendance at the ceremony, covering her expenses to attend the Oscars. Gascon's appearance at the awards has been a topic of debate, and host Conan O'Brien couldn't help but take a dig at the controversy surrounding the actress, who made history as the first transgender actress to secure an Oscar nod.

Conan O'Brien takes a dig at Karla Sofia Gascon

At the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Conan O'Brien kicked off the show with a lighthearted monologue, playfully teasing this year's nominees and himself. He jokingly claimed to have been asked about fictional films like A Complete Unknown, A Real Pain, and Nosferatu on the red carpet, admitting, "I think two were fair."

O'Brien also poked fun at Netflix's 18 nominations and recent price hikes, the lengthy runtime of The Brutalist. However, it was his dig at the controversy surrounding Karla Sofia Gascon's past social media posts, which invited a nervous chuckle from the attendees.

Little fact for you: Anora uses the F-word 479 times, he said. Thats three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascons publicist. He then pitches his voice up mimick Gascons reps, You tweeted WHAT?! Karla, if youre going to tweet about the Oscars, remember, my name is Jimmy Kimmel."

Anora uses the f-word 479 times. That's more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascon's publicist Karla if you are going to tweet about the #Oscars tonight, my name is Jimmy Kimmel



 #Oscars host Conan OBrien



See the full winners list: https://t.co/cDPncK6OIM pic.twitter.com/FhtVecXcEW  DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) March 3, 2025

Reacting to Conan's remarks, one user wrote, "He's being way too genuinely funny; I know the Academy is pissed."

"Conan always knows how to keep things entertaining! That Oscar humor is on point! And wow, love the vibrant background in that second imageit gives such a lively vibe!" Another wrote, praising the host.

"The way everyone groaned as if he was too disrespectful, meanwhile shes one of the top 100 most racist people of all time," a third user wrote.

Another noted, "Oof, brutal. Not incorrect, mind. Just brutal."

"Oof, brutal. Not incorrect, mind. Just brutal," mentioned another.

Karla Sofia Gascon makes a low-key appearance at the 2025 Oscars

Karla Sofia Gascon, the star of Emilia Perez, made a low-key appearance at the Oscars on Sunday, skipping the red carpet but attending the ceremony. This comes after she faced intense backlash over old tweets from 2020 and 2021 that resurfaced after her Oscar nomination. The tweets contained hateful messages about Muslims, diversity at the Oscars, and the death of George Floyd.

For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
Conan OBriens first-ever Oscars hosting gig had everythingsavage jokes, bold roasts, and his signature chaotic energy. But nothing, absolutely nothing, sent the internet into a frenzy quite like the moment he decided to flex his Hindi skills. Yep, you read that right. Conan hit desi viewers with a "Nashte ke saath Oscar," and X (formerly Twitter) lost its collective mind.

Conan O'Brien, who is hosting the Oscars, spoke in Hindi, greeting the people of India. pic.twitter.com/7jPUJ9qz0I  Pranav Jadhav (@pranaavj) March 3, 2025

Conan OBrien speaks in Hindi at Oscars 2025

The clip of Conan speaking Hindi spread like wildfire, with users either hyping his effort or, well, turning it into the internets latest meme obsession. While some thought he absolutely butchered the greeting, others were just impressed he tried at all. One user sarcastically noted that his Hindi attempt deserved its own Oscar, while another claimed it was "the second-worst thing about the Oscarsright after Wicked getting all those nominations." Ouch.

Conan O'Brien gave shoutout to the people of India during the Oscars



He spoke in Hindi and said - Those watching in India, thanks for tuning in, it is early morning, so bring your morning tea



#Oscars2025 pic.twitter.com/jib1lzkPXG  Redditbollywood (@redditbollywood) March 3, 2025

Another user humorously declared, What the HELL language did Conan OBrien just speak when addressing India?! And lets not forget the one who summed it up perfectly: My wife has noted Conans Hindi is terrible, but other than that, no notes. The memes? Nonstop. The chaos? Unmatched.

X users are going gaga over Conan OBriens Hindi at Oscars

But lets be realConans attempt at Hindi wasnt just a random moment. It was a nod to Indias growing influence on global cinema, and despite the mixed reviews, his effort had Indians talking. Whether you think he fumbled or finessed, theres no denying that for a few minutes, the Oscars felt just a little more desi.

Conan O'Brien deserves an Oscar for best attempt at a foreign language! 

Good job, though the Hindi was definitely Hinding!  #Oscars2025 pic.twitter.com/AG0h2BOmFT  Teri Maa Ki Jack  (@TERIMAAKIJACK) March 3, 2025

BRO WHAT WAS THAT HINDI FROM CONAN #Oscars pic.twitter.com/1Ok0MSr5gP  Hubestie  (@jazdahubi) March 3, 2025

conan suddenly busting out the hindi? okayyyy pic.twitter.com/M06n4Q6kTF  lin (@ruesschafer) March 3, 2025

And beyond the Hindi chaos, Conan delivered a killer opening monologue, roasting everyone from Timothee Chalamet to Bob Dylan and even taking a cheeky jab at the Catholic Church. He even addressed the infamous Oscars overtime issue by performing a bizarre yet hilarious song called I Wont Waste Time (ironically wasting time in the process).

But if theres one thing well remember from this years Oscars, its the fact that Conan OBrien spoke Hindi, and the internet absolutely could not handle it.
The drama surrounding Ranveer Allahbadia, aka Beer Biceps, just took a major turn as the Supreme Court finally allowed him to get back to doing what he does bestpodcasting. After a whirlwind of FIRs, public outrage, and a whole lot of courtroom drama, Ranveer can now resume The Ranveer Show, but only if he keeps things "decent" and aligns with "desired standards of morality." In other words, no more scandalous chat that could land him back in hot water.

The courtroom battle around the India's Got Latent controversy

On Monday, Ranveer made an emotional appeal before the Supreme Court, pleading that his podcast was his only source of income. He highlighted that not only his own livelihood but that of 280 other employees depended on the show. The SC took this into consideration and ruled in his favor, with the strict condition that his content should be suitable for audiences of all ages.

However, the court wasnt all that lenient. Justice Kant didnt hold back, condemning the language used in the controversial episode of Indias Got Latent as dirty and perverted. The judge questioned Allahbadias counsel, making it clear that the remarks made in the viral video clips were beyond acceptable limits of decency.

The Indias Got Latent controversy: How it all started

This fiasco began on February 8 when a certain episode of comedian Samay Rainas YouTube show, Indias Got Latent, featuring Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Makhija, went viral for all the wrong reasons. The clips, laced with explicit sexual references involving parents, sparked mass outrage. While some called it dark humour, the internet wasnt having it.

Later, on February 10 Ranveer issued an apology saying comedy is not his forte, and he should have not said what he said.

The controversy soon turned legal when Guwahati Police filed an FIR against the YouTubers on February 11, citing charges of promoting obscenity and engaging in sexually explicit and vulgar discussion. The Maharashtra Cyber Department and Jaipur Police also jumped in, filing cases against them. With multiple FIRs mounting, Ranveer and Ashish Chanchlani approached the Supreme Court, seeking protection.

On February 12, as the backlash snowballed, Samay Raina took down the entire Indias Got Latent series from his channel and issued a public apology. Ranveer followed suit, admitting that his comments were inappropriate. But the damage was already done.

Supreme Courts final word

On February 18, the SC granted interim protection from arrest to Ranveer while issuing notices to the Union of India, Maharashtra, and Assam. It also ensured that no further FIRs would be registered against him regarding the Indias Got Latent episode.

For now, Ranveer is back in business, but with strict moral policing. The podcast will go onbut the real question is, can he keep it clean?
Obesity is a rising health concern in India, affecting both adults and children. In India, the rate of obesity has risen from 1.2 per cent in 1990 to 9.8 per cent in 2022 among women and from 0.5 per cent to 5.4 per cent in men.

According to a Lancet study, the rise of obesity is alarming in India, with 70 per cent of the urban population overweight. Not only this, but India stands at the third position across the world, following the United States and China, when it comes to obesity.

Obesity is just not about carrying extra pounds; it is a complex metabolic condition that may impact every organ of the body. As per research published in The Lancet (2020), obesity significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, sleep apnoea, joint problems, and osteoarthritis. The relationship between obesity and mental health is bidirectional, says Dr. Shrihari Anikhindi, Associate Consultant, Institute of Liver Gastroenterology & Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, Sir Gangaram Hospital.

Obesity can lead to mental health issues

A research study conducted by the American Psychological Association shows that people with obesity have a 55 per cent higher chance of developing depression. Similarly, on the other hand, it's vice versa; depression can lead to weight gain due to emotional eating, lower physical activity, poor sleep quality, and more.

Treatment approaches must address both physical and psychological aspects for optimal outcomes. While lifestyle modifications remain fundamental, medical science has evolved to offer innovative solutions for obesity management. One breakthrough treatment is endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), a minimally invasive procedure that's now available in India.

Tips to deal with obesity and weight management

Apart from the treatments, it is important to practice portion control and opt for roasted, grilled, or steamed food alternatives such as corn on the cob (bhutta), idlis, or fresh fruit chaat instead of fried snacks. Dr. Manjusha Agarwal, Senior Consultant Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai, advises, It is better to avoid stress eating instead of eating whole food. You can also recreate street foods at home with the use of healthier oil and ingredients to maintain the taste.

Avoid unhealthy food components, including maida, artificial sweeteners, added colours, or corn flour, and be mindful and pay attention to your eating habits, adds Dr. Agarwal.

According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), ESG offers several advantages:

No external incisions

Shorter recovery time (usually 1-2 days)

15-20 per cent total body weight loss within 12-24 months

Reduced risk compared to traditional bariatric surgery

Reversible nature of the procedure

To stay updated on the stories that are going viral, follow Indiatimes Trending.
Ismaila Awoyinka, a businessman, was reportedly killed on Saturday by gunmen in Ore, the headquarters of Ondo States Odigbo Local Government Area.

Reports indicate that the businessman, a building materials dealer, was killed at his residence opposite Caring Heart Mega School in the Idi Mango area of Ore on Saturday evening.

A community source revealed that the incident occurred shortly after the deceased left the mosque following a Ramadan prayer.

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He was assassinated the moment he left the mosque after Taraweeh prayer (a voluntary prayer during Ramadan), very close to his house, around 8:35 p.m. on Saturday. After he left the mosque, some persons dressed in white attire alighted from a motorcycle and stayed around the place.

As he (deceased) was about to enter his house, they ambushed him and shot him. He was shot at close range, and he died on the spot, the source said.

When reached on Sunday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation was underway.

The incident happened, and we have commenced an investigation into it, the PPRO stated.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has threatened legal action against the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi states over their directive to close schools for five weeks during Ramadan.

CAN criticized the move as discriminatory, arguing that it violates the rights of non-Muslim students who are denied access to education during the period.

The association has issued an ultimatum, demanding the reversal of the directive, and warned that failure to comply will result in legal proceedings. CAN emphasized the need for policies that respect Nigerias religious diversity and ensure equal opportunities for all students.

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In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, CAN President Daniel Okoh condemned the policy, warning that it could exacerbate the educational crisis in the affected states. He noted that these states already account for 44% of Nigerias out-of-school children, emphasizing that the school closures would further disrupt learning and deepen the challenges faced by students.

Okoh urged the governments to reconsider the directive, stressing the need for inclusive policies that prioritize education for all children, regardless of religious background.

He reiterated CANs commitment to protecting the rights of non-Muslim students and ensuring equal access to education across the country. Education is a fundamental right and the bedrock of progress, the closure of schools across these states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period disrupts academic schedules and threatens the educational advancement of millions of students.

He added that the decision lacked transparency and failed to involve broad consultations with stakeholders, including Christian leaders, educators, and parents.

Policies impacting diverse populations Muslims, Christians, and others demand transparent, inclusive dialogue with parents, educators, religious leaders, and school proprietors.

The absence of such engagement erodes trust and unity in our pluralistic society, Okoh remarked.

Globally, nations like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates where Islam is central and Ramadan deeply revered do not shut down schools for the entire fasting period.

Instead, they adapt schedules, shortening hours or offering flexibility, to balance education with religious practice. A month-long closure, or five weeks in Bauchis case, is excessive and departs from sensible precedent,
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has rejected the South-South Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congress reportedly organized by the camp of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike.

The congress, held in Calabar, was dismissed by Diri, who stated that the national leadership of the PDP had rejected it and would announce a new date for a legitimate congress.

Diri made this known on Monday during the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, State Executive Council, SEC meeting at the partys secretariat in Yenagoa.

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He stated: Our party is thriving in Bayelsa State. We remain the party to beat. The PDP has never lost here. If you seek relevance, you should join the PDP.

The PDP in Bayelsa is united and cannot be weakened. This party produced a Nigerian president from our state. It has also produced governors and federal legislators.

This party is strong at the state level and will remain so. Let us ignore rumours. Some aim to divide us, but they will not succeed.

Governor Douye Diri clarified that no zonal congress took place in the South-South, stating that the national leadership, in consultation with zonal leaders, would determine a new date at the appropriate time.

He assured that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa remains intact and is the best platform for politicians seeking to achieve their ambitions.

Diri highlighted the partys strong legacy, noting that it has produced key officeholders, including a former Nigerian president, and continues to dominate Bayelsa politics. He urged members to remain united and avoid distractions, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to strengthen the party in the state.

Diri further explained that the South-South zonal congress, initially scheduled for February 22, was postponed by the National Working Committee (NWC).

He revealed that the decision followed a request from the four South-South governors, who informed the partys leadership that the date was unsuitable.

The governors remarks underscore the need for proper consultation and adherence to party procedures to ensure a successful and inclusive congress. Diri called for calm among party members, urging them to focus on building a stronger and more united PDP in the region.
Eleven suspected Internet fraudsters have been arrested in Niger States Chanchangi Local Government Area by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commissions Kaduna Zonal Directorate.

This was disclosed in a statement posted on Sunday on the agencys official X handle, titled EFCC Arrests 11 Suspected Internet Fraudsters in Niger.

The commission revealed that operatives seized two vehicles and 13 mobile phones of different brands during the operation.

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The arrests, carried out in broad daylight at White Hotel on Thursday, February 27, 2025, followed credible intelligence linking the individuals to fraudulent online activities,it read.

The EFCC guaranteed the public that the arrests were carried out in a professional manner, without any occurrences of misconduct or abduction.

The suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, the statement noted.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will arraign music executive Jude Okoye on Tuesday before the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja.

He is accused of fraud and money laundering involving N1.38 billion, $1 million, and 34,537.59.

Okoye, the elder brother and former manager of Paul and Peter Okoye of the defunct P-Square music group, is facing a four-count charge filed by EFCC prosecutor Aso Larry Peters on January 27.

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READ MORE: Jude Okoye Faces N100m Bail With Strict Conditions Ahead Of Fraud Trial

His arraignment, originally set for Monday, was postponed after the Ikoyi Correctional Centre, where he is currently remanded, claimed it had not received formal notification of his court appearance.

The EFCC claimed that Okoye fraudulently took $767,544.15 meant for Lex Records Limited as digital distribution royalties, with the intention of denying Peter Okoye his due earnings.

In connection with music publishing royalties, he reportedly converted 34,537.59 from the same business and an additional $133,566.49 from Kobalt Music between 2016 and 2023.

The anti-graft agency further alleges that Okoye diverted $118,652.23 from Mtech Limited, which was meant as royalty payments for Peter Okoye.

The charges, brought under Sections 278 and 285 of the Lagos State Criminal Code, accuse Okoye of intentionally redirecting funds that were intended for his brothers musical earnings over an extended period.

The EFCC also claimed that in 2022, Okoye used the proceeds from illegal activities to acquire a property valued at N850 million, located at No. 5 Tony Eromosele Street, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

He is also accused of converting $1,019,762.87 from an Access Bank account linked to his company, Northside Music Limited, into naira through a Bureau De Change. The money was subsequently moved across several bank accounts to hide its illegal source. Okoye pleaded not guilty when he was first arraigned on February 26, 2025, alongside Northside Music Limited, on seven charges of money laundering.

In a separate ruling, the Federal High Court in Ikoyi granted Okoye bail in the sum of 100 million on Monday.

Justice Alexander Owoeye set conditions for the bail, requiring two sureties in the same sum. One surety must own landed property, while the other must be a business owner with a verifiable address. The court also ordered the submission of property documents and the sureties Bank Verification Numbers (BVN) as part of the bail conditions.

The defendant shall not leave Nigeria until the determination of the case, Justice Owoeye ruled, adding that Okoye would remain in custody until he met his bail requirements. His younger brother, Paul Okoye, popularly known as Rudeboy, was present in court to show support.

The trial is scheduled to begin on April 14.
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has confirmed the successful rescue of 59 kidnapped victims.

The governor shared the news on his verified Facebook page, expressing relief and gratitude for the safe return of the abducted individuals.

He commended the efforts of security agencies and local authorities for their swift action in securing the victims release. Governor Sani reiterated his administrations commitment to combating insecurity and ensuring the safety of all residents.

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He urged citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces to prevent future incidents. The rescue marks a significant step in addressing the persistent kidnapping challenges in the region.

Governor Sani on Sunday wrote: Emotions were at their peak as I bade farewell to the 59 kidnap victims who were recently released through the joint efforts of the Kaduna State Government, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and security agencies.

Upon their arrival in Kaduna, they were housed at the Kaduna State Shelter Home, where they underwent medical treatment and psychosocial therapy. After 10 days of intensive care and monitoring, they were certified medically and psychologically fit to return to their families and resume their normal activities.

The victims have given strong assurances that they will put the terrible experience behind them and focus on their families and businesses. In appreciation of their courage and resilience, as well as their firm determination to rebuild their lives, the State Government will support them with start-up funds and tools to help them start afresh.

The Kaduna State Government remains committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property. We shall continue to take all necessary measures to sustain the prevailing peace and security in Kaduna State. Our Peace Model has been hailed as an innovative, results-oriented, and sustainable approach to peacebuilding and conflict resolution. We shall persist on this noble path despite the machinations of individuals whose stock in trade is to politicise security.

https://www.facebook.com/100050603764386/posts/1296151068748340/
A N100 million bail has been granted to Jude Okoye, the older brother and former manager of the now-defunct P-Square, ahead of his trial for alleged fraud.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Okoye on charges of laundering N1.38 billion, $1 million, and 34,537.59.

He denied the charges and was first placed in custody at the Ikoyi correctional facility by Alexander Owoeye, the judge of the federal high court in Ikoyi, Lagos.

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Inibehe Effiong, his lawyer, had asked for him to be held in the EFCCs custody until the hearing, but the prosecution lawyer, Larry Peters Aso, opposed the request.

At Fridays hearing, the defendants lawyer filed a bail application, but the prosecution opposed it with an affidavit, claiming that Okoye is a flight risk and could potentially interfere with witnesses.

The judge consented to hear the bail application and approved the request on Monday.

Owoeye set the bail conditions, requiring Okoye to present two sureties, each owning landed properties in Lagos valued at N100 million.

The court is required to verify the documents of the properties, and Okoye is barred from leaving the country without prior approval.

Owoeye ruled that Okoye will remain in custody until the bail conditions are fulfilled. His trial is scheduled to begin on April 14, 2025.
As part of efforts to ensure safety for residents and commuters, Lagos State government has proposed an additional pedestrian bridge in Oshodi area of the state.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that the development is coming, amid traffic situation of pedestrians occupying the alternative bridge on Monday.

Recall that the popular pedestrian bridge was recently closed due to some safety concerns by the states government.

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Government officials also warned residents against crossing highways where bridges are available, launching arrests to enforce compliance.

Meanwhile, Oshodi commuters now rely on the alternative bridge, causing overcrowding.

Reacting to a social media user, identified as @Sama_On_Point, who was lamenting on overcrowding condition of the bridge, Commissioner, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab on Monday, assured that state government will provide an additional bridge to ease movement of commuters in the area.

He said: The Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources have taken note of the numerous complaints experienced during the usage of the pedestrian bridge in Oshodi this morning.

READ MORE: Lagos Govt Orders Immediate Closure Of Oshodi Pedestrian Bridge Over Safety Concerns

The relevant authorities has been notified on the need to make available additional bridges in the axis.

However, we thank you for adhering to the No Crossing of Highway Law in Lagos State and wed like to plead that we all keep at it as we work to improve your commute in the axis.
The Lagos State Police Command has launched an investigation into claims of harassment made by well-known On-Air Personality, Omotunde Adebowale-David, widely recognised as Lolo1, against police officers attached to a government officials convoy.

Information Nigeria had previously reported that on February 26, 2025, Lolo1 livestreamed on Instagram, describing her encounter with law enforcement officers in the state as unfair and distressing.

She claimed that police escorts halted her and took her car keys after a government officials convoy forced her off the road.

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READ MORE: Lolo1 Confronts Police Escort After Alleged Harassment By Lawmakers Convoy

She further stated that the security personnel accused her of damaging the officials vehicle, an allegation she denied.

According to her, it was actually the officers who scratched her car before seizing her keys by force.

Addressing an inquiry from PUNCH Metro on Sunday, the states Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, had personally reached out to the media personality and invited her to provide a detailed account of the incident.

He said, The Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, has reached out to Lolo to come over so that he can get a full understanding of what happened. The CP has equally promised to punish any officer found culpable in the incident.

A video of the incident showed Lolo1 and a male colleague making frantic efforts to recover her car keys from the police officers.

During an interview with News Central, she described the ordeal as distressing, revealing that she was ordered into a police vehicle, a situation she found deeply unsettling.

It was a very harrowing experience, and Im still shaking from the encounter. I was the one who made the video and went live on Instagram so that I could get everything in real-time. I knew that as long as they were on my feed, everyone would see the identities of the officers harassing me, she added.
Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda has announced her resignation after 49 Days in office.

Recall that Mrs. Meranda assumed office on January 13, 2025, following the removal of former speaker Mudashiru Obasa.

Honorable Obasa was impeached over several corrupt allegations, such as abused of power and misappropriation of funds.

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READ MORE: Meranda Slams Obasas Inversion Into Lagos Assembly Complex, Says Security Escorts Not Fully Restored

Last week, the lawmaker representing Agege 1 constituency, stormed the Assemblys complex with armed security, claiming that his removal was unconstitutional.

Following days of consultations with stakeholders of ruling All Progressive Congress in the state, Meranda resigned alongside all principal officers appointed with her.

Reading her resignation letter on Monday, the lawmaker representing Apapa1 consistency noted that her decision was made to ensure peace and democracy in Lagos State.

She said: This is a notice of resignation as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

See video here for complete statement of her resignation speech: https://www.facebook.com/thecableng/videos/3920629104872567/?app=fbl
Moji Meranda has been re-elected as the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, marking a significant shift in her political journey.

Prior to this role, Meranda served as the Speaker of the assembly for 49 days, a position she assumed following the suspension of the former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa

Her tenure as Speaker was historic, as she broke barriers by becoming one of the few women to ever hold the position in the states legislative history. Advertisement

During her time as Speaker, Meranda focused on fostering unity and addressing key legislative issues, earning respect from her colleagues.

However, her resignation as Speaker came after a meeting with high-ranking All Progressives Congress (APC) members to resolve a leadership crisis.

Following her resignation, Obasa was reinstated as Speaker, while Meranda was re-elected as Deputy Speaker.

On Monday, during the plenary session of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda officially announced her resignation: This is a notice of resignation as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly,

I resigned to protect the state assembly, i am not a quitter

For now I take a bow as your Speaker, she announced.

Mojisola Meranda resigned as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly alongside all the principal officers who were appointed alongside her. Her resignation came after a crucial meeting with high-ranking members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) aimed at resolving the ongoing leadership crisis within the assembly. The decision to step down, along with her team, marked a significant shift in the assemblys leadership dynamics.
Mudashiru Obasa has been reinstated as the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, marking his return to the position after a brief hiatus.

Obasa was sworn in on Monday following the resignation of Mojisola Meranda, who stepped down after serving as Speaker for 49 days.

Merandas resignation came as a surprise to many, though no specific reasons were immediately provided for her decision. Obasas return is expected to bring stability and continuity to the assembly as it addresses key issues affecting the state.

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Lawmakers and stakeholders have expressed optimism about his ability to steer the house effectively, emphasizing the need for unity and progress in Lagos.

Speaking after his reinstatement on Monday, Obasa had this to say: Today is not the day for speech making but to appreciate our colleagues who have put a lot into this gathering today, Obasa said.

I thank the party leaders present here today and special thanks to Bisi Akande, former Osun governor, Olusegun Osoba, former governor of Ogun.

We have resolved and determined to serve and protect the interest of Lagosians.

What is happening today shows that the house is mature and has internal mechanism to resolve issues.

Today is not the day for speech making, but to thank my colleagues for everything.
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested an auto spare parts dealer, identified as Okeke Ebuka Igwe, at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja Lagos.

It was gathered that Mr. Okeke, on the 24th of February, 2025 was apprehend by officials of NDLEA, while attempting to send two parcels of 1.10kg cocaine concealed in vehicle propellers to Angola through the export shed of the Airport.

This was disclosed in a statement on Sunday by NDLEAs Spokesman, Femi Babafemi.

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Babafemi said that the suspect claimed that he is a businessman selling auto parts in ASPANDA, Trade Fair Complex, Ojo area of Lagos.

The statement partly reads: A similar attempt by an auto spare parts dealer, Okeke Ebuka Igwe, to send two parcels of 1.10kg cocaine concealed in vehicle propellers to Angola through the export shed of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, MMIA, Ikeja Lagos, was thwarted by NDLEA operatives who arrested him on Monday 24th February following credible intelligence.

During an interview with the suspect, he claimed that he is a businessman selling auto parts in ASPANDA, Trade Fair Complex, Ojo area of Lagos.

The bid by another suspect, Ezechi Iyke Cyprian to move a large consignment of cocaine weighing 5.40 kilograms to Owerri, Imo state in his Toyota Sienna bus on Sunday 23rd February was frustrated by operatives of a special operations unit of NDLEA who arrested him following weeks of intelligence and surveillance.
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested 25-year-old Muniru Haruna for allegedly defiling a three-year-old (name withheld) in Orile-Ilugun, Odeda Local Government Area of the State.

CSP Omolola Odutola, spokesperson for the state police command, confirmed this in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday.

The incident was reportedly brought to the attention of the police by the victims mother, 20-year-old Alaba Abdullahi, around 11 am on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

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Odutola said, Alaba reported that Muniru Haruna, a 25-year-old man residing in the same area, allegedly committed the act while the victim was playing nearby.

The incident was discovered when Alaba heard her child crying and quickly went to investigate, only to find her daughter emerging from the suspects room in evident distress.

Upon further examination, it was revealed that the victim had difficulty walking and exhibited signs of physical trauma.

Alaba immediately sought assistance, and both the victim and the suspect were transported to General Hospital Odeda for a medical examination and necessary treatment. Medical forms were issued, and the police await the doctors results.

The suspect has been taken into custody and has denied the allegations against him.

She stated that the case has been handed over to the division crime branch for investigation and will be transferred to the State CID Eleweran after the preliminary inquiry is concluded.

Odutola emphasised that the state police command is treating the allegation with utmost seriousness and is dedicated to securing justice for the victim. She added that the safety and well-being of the community, particularly children, remain key priorities for the command.

She called on anyone with relevant information about the incident to come forward and support the investigation.
Nigerian socialite Cubana Chief Priests alleged Kenyan baby mama, Hellen Mutimu, has once again publicly demanded a paternity test.

Since January, when she first accused him of fathering her son, Ms. Mutimu has continuously called him out on social media, alleging neglect and evasion.

On Sunday, Ms. Mutimu posted on her Instagram story, referencing a viral video in which a character is urged not to run but continues to do so.

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She drew a comparison to Cubana Chief Priest evading a DNA test, while asserting that their son bears a strong resemblance to him.

She shared an observation about her son, noting that he eats like Cubana Chief Priest. She expressed frustration, saying she no longer has food to give him and that he is welcome to come and take the boy from her.

Mirefe stop running because of DNA test. This boy is just eating like you pascal come and carry ur son. Theres no food to feed this boy anymore pascal, she wrote.

SEE POST:
President Bola Tinubu has approved provisional licences for eleven new private universities across Nigeria.

In a statement on X by Special Adviser on Media & Public Communication to the President, Sunday Dare, disclosed that the former governor of Lagos State, granted the approvals during the Federal Executive Council meeting on Monday, in Abuja.

The post reads: President Tinubu today approved provisional licenses for 11 private Universities in Nigeria.

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At todays FEC meeting the following Private Universities were approved :

New City University, Ayetoro Ogun State, University of Fortune, igbotako, Ondo State, Eranova University, Mabushi, Minaret University, Ikirun, Osun Annex

Abubakar Toyin University, oke-Agba, Kwara State, Southern Atlantic University Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Lens University, ilemona, Kwara State, Monarch University, Iyesi-Ota, Ogun State, Tonnie Iredia University of Communication, Benin City.

Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management, Lagos, Kevin Eze University, Mgbowo, Enugu State

President Tinubu is Committed to expanding the frontiers of Educational opportunities and infrastructure.
Rivers State House of Assembly has given Governor Sim Fubara 48 hours to present the 2025 budget to the members of the house.

The lawmakers made this known during a plenary session in Port Harcourt on Monday.

Recall that Governor Fubara had on January 2nd, 2025, signed a N1.1 trillion 2025 Budget into law after presenting it to the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led lawmakers.

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Meanwhile last week, the Supreme Court ordered Martin Amaewhule and the group of lawmakers he is leading to resume sitting as legitimate members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The development is coming following months of power tussle over the leadership of the states Assembly with two sets of lawmakers laying claim to the legislative body.

The Supreme Court had also ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria to withhold allocations for Rivers State until it purges itself of what the court describes as flagrant disobedience to court orders.

It also nullified the local government elections in the State which was conducted last year.

Speaking during a plenary session on Monday, in a letter read by the Speaker Martin Amaewhule, ordered Fubara to present 2025 budget of the state.

The letter reads: That pursuant to the order of the Supreme Court in Suit no: SC/CV/1174/2024 for the stoppage of Statutory Federal allocations to the Rivers State Government and halting of spending from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of Rivers State pending the passage of an Appropriation Bill, you are requested to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the House in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

READ MORE: FG Allocation: Fubara Bows To Pressure, Orders Fresh LG Poll After SCourt Judgement

That the House expects you to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill within 48 hours.

The provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended; the Rivers State Local Government (Amendment) Law, 2023 as well as the Judgement of the Supreme Court in Suit No.: SC/CV/343/2024 that prohibits the administration of Local Governments by HLGAs or any other persons other than democratically elected officials.
Special Adviser on Public Communication to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Lere Olayinka has mocked Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State after Supreme Court judgement.

In a video post shared via his Facebook page on Sunday, Olayinka said that Governor Fubara is already seeing spirits following the recent courts rulings in the state.

Recall that INFORMATION NIGERIA on Friday reported that Supreme court sitting in Abuja, invalidated the victory of all 23 local government chairmen and councilors.

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READ MORE: FG Allocation: Fubara Bows To Pressure, Orders Fresh LG Poll After SCourt Judgement

The court also ordered Central Bank of Nigeria to freeze the states account, a decision which will further deny Rivers Government from receiving federal allocation.

Reacting to the development on Sunday, Wikes aide, recounted that Ayodele Fayose, former governor of Ekiti State, had warned Fubara against fighting his predecessor.

During Fubaras inauguration after he was elected in 2023, Fayose had warned him not to see beyond what he is expected to see.

Olayinka recalled Fayoses warning following the Supreme Court judgment which blocked federal allocations to Rivers State until some measures are taken.

Olayinka wrote: Fayose always tell them the truth, but they wont listen.
Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara, has insisted that he will not be intimidated over the ongoing political crisis facing the state.

The Governor, while speaking on Monday at the commissioning of reconstructed Rivers State Government House Staff Quarters, noted that no force will make him leave office.

INFORMATION NIGERIA reports that Fubaras statement is coming, following recent verdicts made by Supreme Court, over the leadership tussles in the South South State.

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Recall that the apex court had ordered Central Bank of Nigeria to freeze the states government account.

The court also nullified the election victory of all 23 local government chairmen and councilors across the state, a development which has forced Governor Fubara to bow to pressure and called for fresh LG election.

Reacting to the development on Monday, the Rivers Governor who noted how the news of the judgment of the Supreme Court dampened the spirit of his people, charged them to brace up for what is ahead.

He noted that as humans, the people might have felt disturbed by the Apex Courts pronouncements, but advised them to realise that God will accomplish His purpose.

Fubara said: Our back is not on anybody; it is on God. I want to thank you for your support, and assure you that, if there is one person on this planet Earth that will continue to stand by you, I will be that person.

I assure you that I will lead you with honour, I will lead you with respect, and I will lead you with integrity, knowing that when I leave here, I would have questions to answer.

If I am called upon 20 to 30 years from today, I want to be proud to defend my position. So, I thank you and assure you that I will not disappoint you.

READ MORE: Rivers Assembly Knocks Gov Fubara Over Directive On LG Councils, Issues Two Days Ultimatum To Present 2025 Budget

In as much as I dont subscribe to violence, when the time comes for us to take a decision, I will lead the course for that decision.

Let me say it again: I am not scared of anything, the worse that will happen is for me to leave the office. Am I leaving the earth? Is it going to stop me from existing?

So, I am not even bothered about that. But the right thing must be done, and must be said when the opportunity is given to us. Let me thank everyone, more especially our youths.

Be strong, dont be perturbed. I assure you, at the right time, you will hear from us.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved N147.9 billion for the completion of the dualisation of the Oyo-Ogbomoso Road in Oyo State.

The announcement was made by one of the presidents spokespersons, Sunday Dare, in a statement on his X account on Monday.

The funds were approved during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held today. The Oyo-Ogbomoso Road project, which has been under construction for several years, is a critical infrastructure aimed at improving transportation and boosting economic activities in the region. The dualisation of the road is expected to enhance connectivity between Oyo and Ogbomoso, reducing travel time and improving safety for commuters.

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According to Sunday Dare, the funds will enable JRB Construction Company Limited to complete the road project and alleviate the difficulties experienced by road users.

President Tinubu has approved the completion of the dualisation of the OyoOgbomoso Road in Oyo State. The total cost is N147,887,810,833.87. Messrs JRB Construction Co. Ltd. will handle the completion of this all-important road project that has been delayed.

President Tinubu, fully aware of the importance of the entire road, particularly the uncompleted IbadanIlorin section, is committed to easing the difficulties faced by haulage trailers transporting goods and agricultural products from the North to Lagos, as well as the challenges experienced by road users, especially students, .

https://x.com/SundayDareSD/status/1896569349843943817?t=RhgmzK8P9qzNya-Yuy6gAQ&s=19
Renowned social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM), born Martins Vincent Otse, has arrived in China to assist in the fight against fraud and scammers targeting Nigerian business owners, suppliers and manufacturers in China.

Taking to his Instagram page on Sunday, March 3, VDM surprisingly posted a video of himself in China.

The controversial activist revealed that his purpose in the country was to uncover fraudulent activities involving Chinese suppliers, manufacturers, and Nigerian entrepreneurs.

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READ MORE: Erica Nlewedim Responds To Backlash Over Choosing Father Over Mother At Movie Premiere

He stated that Nigerians have been frequently complaining about being scammed in business transactions, particularly in dealings with Chinese suppliers, possibly involving product purchases or other agreements.

In response to the issue, VDM chose to take proactive steps by teaming up with other concerned Nigerians who head business associations in China.

Captioning the post, he wrote, Following the frequent complaints I get about a lot of Nigerians being duped by suppliers and middle men in China, I am here on a serious mission to join heads with some well-meaning Nigerians here in China to help combat online fr@ud between suppliers/manufacturers in China and business owners in Nigeria.

Watch him speak below

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGsftjosLGx/?igsh=NTFkc2RvNTI2M2Ix
Clearly Google is doing something right. Although Google Clouds revenue still lags AWS and Microsoft Azure, its growing much faster (albeit on a smaller base). But thats not the real story of its growth. The story is that its growing at all. Google Cloud should have been knocked out in the second round given AWSs years-long head start and Microsofts enterprise IT dominance. Google is booming, particularly now given its strength in AI. By some accounts, its newest Gemini model meets or exceeds OpenAIs GPT-4 in areas like complex reasoning.

This is Google doing what it does best: tackling bafflingly hard computer science problems and releasing the output as research papers, open-source projects, or cloud services for the rest of us. From Kubernetes to Angular to Bazel to Zanzibar, Google has either released or inspired a range of different technologies that are now commonly used.

But that doesnt mean you should. Use them, I mean.
A shopper walks past Forever 21 on Chestnut Street in Philadelphia in 2020. Forever 21 filed for bankruptcy in 2019 and closed many of their stores including this one. Read more

Forever 21 anticipates closing all stores in Pennsylvania, including two in the Philadelphia area, amid the companys search for a buyer.

The closures were announced in two layoff notices the company filed on Feb. 17 with the Philadelphia Department of Commerce.

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These closures are necessary because economic realities require the company to restructure its business operations, chief financial officer Bradley Sell said in the notice.

The company is closing its Fashion District location as well as its store in Philadelphia Mills. In total, 36 employees will be laid off across both locations between April 23 and May 7, although an exact closing date for the stores was not provided in the notice.

The company also anticipates closing all Forever 21 stores in Pennsylvania, the notice indicates. The retailer currently has 17 stores in the state, including in Lancaster, Erie, and King of Prussia, according to its website. There are also 15 in New Jersey and two in Delaware, among the companys total of over 540 locations.

Sell said in the Commerce Department filing that there is no opportunity to employ soon to be laid off workers at other nearby company locations.

More closures across the country

The local closures come as Forever 21 is looking for a buyer to take over the business, according to the notice. The Wall Street Journal has reported that the company is considering filing for bankruptcy, citing people familiar with the matter.

The apparel company was founded in 1984 by husband and wife Do Won and Jin Sook Chang, immigrants from South Korea, who kept the company privately owned.

Forever 21 filed for bankruptcy in 2019 and then was acquired by Simon Property Group, Brookfield Property Partners and Authentic Brands Group in 2020. The companys former CEO, Winnie Park, who joined Forever 21 in 2022, now leads Philadelphia-based Five Below.

The company has faced competition from digital fast fashion brands such as Shein and Temu, the Wall Street Journal reports. Forever 21 has also taken a hit from long leases for large stores that were difficult to fill with merchandise as it expanded around the time of the Great Recession, the New York Times reported in 2019.

The companys Los Angeles headquarters is closing, according to the Los Angeles Business Journal, and some 200 store closures are planned, Bloomberg News reports, as a bankruptcy process is expected to kick off soon.

Forever 21 did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Other retailers closed in Philadelphia

The Philadelphia region has seen other retailers close locations or exit entirely in recent months.

Joann, a chain of stores that sell crafts supplies, announced recently that it is closing all stores after filing for bankruptcy earlier in the year.

Party City, which had more than a dozen stores in the region, planned to close all of them by the end of February as it went out of business. Big Lots also kicked off going-out-of-business sales late last year.
Josh Verne at the James A. Byrne United States Courthouse In August. At the time he was fighting charges of lying about investments to his wealthy Main Line friends and neighbors. On Monday, he pleaded guilty to fraud charges. Read more

Start-up founder Josh S. Verne pleaded guilty Monday to federal fraud charges for diverting millions that he raised from his Main Line friends and neighbors to support his expensive lifestyle, instead of investing the money in his former smartphone- and laptop-leasing site, Ownable.

Verne, 47, was charged with fraud in a multi-count grand jury indictment unsealed last summer. He pleaded guilty to all three counts of securities fraud, 10 of the 22 original counts of wire fraud, and a charge of aggravated ID fraud. He had initially pleaded not guilty. The government dropped other wire fraud charges and charges of witness intimidation and retaliation, as part of the plea agreement.

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Verne, who formerly owned homes in Gladwyne and Ventnor, was represented by federal public defenders. He faces a minimum of two years in federal prison for the ID fraud and a maximum of 242 years for all the charges under federal guidelines.

Despite the lengthy terms laid out in guidelines by Congress, white-collar fraudsters are seldom sentenced to more than a few years. Vernes sentencing was tentatively scheduled in June before District Judge John Frank Murphy.

No one can guarantee what sentence I will impose, Murphy warned Verne before accepting his guilty plea and a pledge not to appeal.

Reciting the charges to which Verne had pleaded, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerome Maiatico told the court that to finance a lifestyle he could not afford, Verne in 2016 made an initial presentation at the Main Line home of an investor whom people familiar with the case identified as David Adelman, owner of Campus Apartments, co-owner of FS Investments, and the leader of the Sixers recent attempt to build a new arena.

According to the government, Verne at that time and later lied about raising tens of millions by selling his previous companies, including Home Line Furniture Industries (Chucks Bargain House). That business, based in Northeast Philadelphia, was run by Vernes family and his cousins. After a failed attempt to pivot to online distribution, Home Line ceased operations in 2011.

Verne also forged and presented Adelman and other investors with a phony Goldman Sachs statement purporting to show he had more $50 million in assets at that Wall Street investment bank, prosecutors said.

Adelman, identified in the federal indictment as Investor A, was fooled by the presentation and eventually invested or lent a total of more than $2 million to Verne, according to prosecutors. His interest gave Verne instant credibility and helped convince others to invest, they said.

I appreciate the work that the U.S. Attorneys Office and FBI have done on behalf of myself and other victims to make sure Mr. Verne is held accountable for his conduct, Adelman said in a statement after Vernes guilty plea.

The indictment, as well as an earlier Securities and Exchange Commission civil complaint that remains pending, had also accused Verne of exaggerating the value of his college content-sharing site FlockU and installment-payment service Workpays.me in memos to investors seeking funds for Ownable, an online rent-to-own business that was to lease laptops and smartphones to people who couldnt afford to buy them.

Verne also lied about putting a few million dollars of his own money into the business, according to prosecutors. In fact, he borrowed cash from his employees and forged one of their names to sell shares without the employees permission, keeping the cash.

In a statement read by assistant federal public defender Michael McCrossen, Verne, while admitting to the charges for which he pleaded guilty, added that FlockU was not a scam. According to Verne, FlockU was a college student-oriented business that he and his partner, Adelman, started in good faith, but it failed to thrive.

Also, for a period of time, Ownable was a viable business, McCrossen said, acknowledging that Verne concealed the extent of the companys later financial troubles. He said Verne had agreed to step down as Ownables chief executive when confronted by its independent directors. Verne also maintained that he did make a personal investment into Ownable but agrees he exaggerated the extent.

Instead of using all the investors money to build Ownable into a viable business, prosecutors say Verne used investors funds to pay for decorators at his showcase Ventnor home, private jet rides, political and charitable contributions, his daughters bat mitzvah party, country club payments, and his other investments.

In its separate complaint, the SEC said Verne spent more than $9 million of the $31 million to buy a vacation home, pay for private travel, and pay his childrens private tuition, and otherwise fund an expensive lifestyle, while also diverting more than $5 million in later investors funds to Ponzi-like payments to some of his early investors to fool them into thinking the business was profitable.

Investor lists obtained by The Inquirer identified the state-funded Ben Franklin Technology Partnership of Southeastern Pennsylvania, developer Bart Blatstein, Fanatics owner Michael Rubin, investor and restaurateur David Magerman, lawyers William Harvey and Roger Braunfeld, and other prominent Main Line and Philadelphia residents among the investors Verne duped.

Also roped in were Florida-based subprime-mortgage lender Jay N. Levine, Crestar private-investments owner William S. Green, and Ohio-based advertising business owner Kimberly Blackwell, among others outside the region.

Verne had been out on bail pending trial on condition he stay around Fort Lauderdale, where he had been living, and in the Philadelphia area, home to his extended family and former wife and their children.

In January, he persuaded Judge Murphy to release him from wearing an ankle monitor, so he could get physical therapy in advance of a hip replacement. Prosecutors agreed Monday to leave Verne free on those terms until his sentencing.
Matt Meyer, with his wife, Lauren, and youngest son, prepares to address campaign workers the night he beat the party-endorsed candidate and won a three-way fight for the Democratic primary election nomination for governor of Delaware. He beat Republican State Sen. Mike Ramone with 56% of the vote in the November general election. Read more

Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer, a Democrat who took office in January, agreed to meet with The Inquirer after his first month to talk about the states finances, jobs, and the pressures on the corporate-friendly Chancery Court. Here are highlights, edited for clarity:

You were county executive in New Castle County, where most Delaware residents live. Did that prepare you for being governor?

The smaller the yard, the bigger the dog. Im four weeks in. Were in issues from the port to the corporate franchise to the challenge in relations with the federal government, and trying to build a budget.

When you were county executive, Delaware gave Amazon $6 million upfront to build its largest-ever warehouse, pledged $22 million to China-based WuXi AppTec for its Middletown plant, and prepared $30 million for Merck to expand in Wilmington. Can the state afford to keep paying profitable companies to bring in jobs?

The Delaware Prosperity Partnership is a very important marketing arm of the state. Its got tremendous private sector support. Its unprecedented in Delaware history that you have private sector partners investing collectively [along with government funds] in Delawares future.

Im a former teacher [and corporate lawyer]. I have not been shy about saying, and studies show, that sizable grants and tax breaks to out-of-state companies arent necessarily in the best interest of taxpayers.

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Im all for marketing the things that are best about Delaware and for fixing permitting so it goes really quickly and efficiently and for giving companies the opportunity to expand.

But to keep using it as a mechanism to give away taxpayer dollars when we need resources for our roads, schools, police, affordable housing? We have to be very careful about how we use state money for business going forward.

We are home to DuPont and Incyte and some of the best companies in the world. We will make strategic investments in industries where Delaware is winning  and will continue to win  in biochemistry, financial technologies, agriculture, logistics technologies, where we can attract the best and brightest.

Delaware, for over a century, has been the place where leading corporations make their corporate home. We have been a stable, steady, incorruptible arbiter of corporate disputes. Its really important to business that theres a steady, stable bedrock of law, so when there is disagreement between shareholders and management, theres clarity, consistency, predictably and fairness.

[Corporate fees] are over a third of our state budget. If you take that and [program cuts] in Washington, D.C., and the fact we have to get a budget passed by June 30, its really hard. We need to make sure we retain and grow this corporate franchise.

Last year in the media and in politics, that franchise came under attack. On my first day in office, we started meeting with leaders in the corporate bar and around the country who are making key decisions about where companies incorporate. And with C-suite executives and individuals on boards that are concerned about leaving Delaware.

Business founder Phil Shawe, outraged by how his companys case was handled in Chancery Court, spent $1.25 million helping elect you. Did he help write the new law making it harder to sue?

I didnt talk to Shawe. Mostly I talked to a lot of corporate lawyers. You know, I was a summer associate at Wilson Sonsini [and a mergers lawyer at Simpson Thatcher & Bartlett, and a poverty lawyer at Community Legal Aid ] .

One firm was talking about setting up a practice group to decide where to incorporate. Thats an alarm for us. They never had to do that.

So we said lets shore up this corporate franchise. Lets make sure everyone knows we are serious about clarity, predictability, and fairness.

The first problem [with prior Delaware law] is the controlling-shareholder problem. Tech founders and private equity want to make full use of their status as controlling shareholders.

Theres also a larger group: the big companies that just have concerns about things becoming more hostile to them. The way Delaware wont randomize judges [a single Chancery judge gets all cases involving a single company]. The federal courts, other states, randomize.

What I was hearing, I felt a little like when I was a sixth-grade math teacher and a student would not go to recess because they knew theyd get in trouble because that proctor didnt like them. Some of these companies complain a particular judge doesnt like them.

Is Delaware losing corporate business?

We now have 2.2 million corporate entities; thats more than double the number of people that live in the state. We got 81% of the companies that had IPOs last year. Things are not terrible.

Did you help write the corporate law reform proposal?

I was not involved in the sausage-making. Delaware has prided itself on effectively maintaining the balance between the rights of stockholders and the rights of the board and management. Its hard. Its easier said than done. This is an attempt to address that balance.

Before you were governor, Delaware tried to stop a river dredging plan because it would help rivals in Philadelphia and Camden. Now a judge has blocked Wilmingtons port dredging because Delaware didnt consult Philly. And your party is divided over plans to grow the port. Is it time for a unified, regional ports group?

We have an obligation as the state owning the port to create and grow good union job opportunities. We have the potential to be a leading global port. But we have to watch every dollar.

We need to move as a state toward value-based care models and incentivize the public to use primary care. Sometimes her staff faces a backlog of 100 people in the emergency room. Half didnt need to be there, if we had a functional health-care system. Thats what were moving on.

We want to work with the hospitals, if theyre willing. If not, therell be a fight.
Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner was among the witnesses called to testify at a recent court hearing over an open records dispute. Read more

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner was among the witnesses who took the stand in a City Hall courtroom last week to defend his offices handling of its first exoneration in 2018.

His testimony, which stretched across more than four hours, came as part of an unusual right-to-know request filed by former city prosecutor Beth McCaffery, who is seeking to prove that she did not commit misconduct while prosecuting a man for murder more than a decade ago.

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The litigation, however, has grown to represent something broader  serving as a vivid embodiment of the bitter divisions that have long existed between Krasner, a self-described reformer, and many former city prosecutors, who view him as vengeful and eager to tear down their prior work.

On the witness stand, Krasner, who is running for reelection, openly criticized lawyers who had spent years in the office before he was sworn in, and suggested theyd often acted unethically, if not illegally, to secure convictions. One of them, he said, is lucky hes not locked up.

McCafferys lawyers, meanwhile, asked the district attorney pointed questions seeking to challenge the thoroughness of his offices reinvestigation of the murder case it successfully overturned, and suggested that Krasners team moved too hastily to free a convicted killer from prison.

The case has caused not only Krasner to appear in court, but also his onetime chief of homicide, Anthony Voci, who admitted under questioning that he did not believe McCaffery had committed egregious misconduct  despite signing off on that assertion in court documents in 2018. Voci added that he had done virtually nothing to confirm that allegation or others contained in the documents, saying he had left much of the preparation to coworkers whom he trusted.

The case also caused Krasners office to admit it had misplaced three file boxes related to the case  despite the fact that Common Pleas Court Judge Anne Marie Coyle had ordered them more than two years ago to provide her with all of the case files to review. Attorneys said Wednesday that theyd found the boxes and would hand them over to the judge.

Whatever Coyle decides in the matter, it will have no impact on the underlying murder case. The former defendant, Dontia Patterson, has not only been freed, but he also settled a lawsuit against the city in 2020 for $1.7 million. (Patterson was separately convicted in 2023 of possessing drugs with intent to deliver and was sentenced to two years probation, court records show.)

In addition, both Krasner and Voci said they still do not believe Patterson committed the 2007 murder hed been convicted of, a shooting in which 18-year-old Antwine Jackson was killed in Summerdale.

I stand by everything in that motion, Krasner said of his offices 2018 application to drop all charges in the case.

Egregious misconduct?

The open records dispute, initiated by McCaffery, revolves around that decision to clear Patterson and set him free.

In their motion to dismiss the conviction, Krasners office said Patterson was convicted in part because of egregious prosecutorial misconduct and that prosecutors illegally withheld evidence helpful to Patterson, including information about alternative suspects.

McCaffery handled Pattersons 2008 trial that ended in a hung jury, and fellow prosecutor Richard Sax secured a guilty verdict at a retrial the following year.

Although McCaffery and Sax are not named in the motion, the document said the concealment of exculpatory evidence occurred over two trials and added: Prosecution that deliberately violates these constitutional rights is not law enforcement in any sense  it is a violation of the law.

Sax at the time denied withholding any evidence, and also accused Krasner of seeking to dismiss the case because the two men disliked each other. In an interview last week, Sax again denied concealing any evidence.

McCaffery, however, did not comment publicly on the accusations against her when Krasner filed the dismissal motion. And in 2020, she and her attorneys, led by Bryan Lentz, decided to file a right-to-know request to seek access to the Patterson trial file, believing it would contain proof that McCaffery had disclosed everything as required by law.

Krasners office denied her request, saying the files were exempt from public disclosure under Pennsylvanias open records laws. And after a series of steps through the courts, the matter was sent to Coyle, the city judge, to oversee.

A contentious court hearing

That is how Voci and Krasner ended up in her courtroom in recent weeks, testifying before Coyle while being questioned by Lentz.

The testimony and questions often veered well beyond typical open records issues, and into territory including how Pattersons case was reinvestigated, whether the dismissal motion was supported by sufficient evidence, and how various lawyers behaved during the cases history.

Krasners time on the stand was contentious from the moment he sat down. He and Lentz frequently interrupted one another and disagreed about nearly everything.

Then, while being questioned, Krasner gave an answer blasting Sax, saying: Anything he was involved in as a lawyer was suspect, and hes lucky hes not locked up.

(Sax, in last weeks interview, said such an assertion was not worthy of a response.)

The district attorney had similarly harsh words for former homicide prosecutor Ed Cameron, an office veteran who sent emails to colleagues expressing reservations about exonerating Patterson.

Krasner said hed tried a case against Cameron before becoming district attorney, and, without elaborating, said he found Camerons behavior during it troublesome.

Krasner later said that Cameron oversaw a win-at-all-costs culture in the office, and insinuated that Cameron may have engaged in the destruction of evidence as part of it, saying he spent a lot of time around the shredder.

(Cameron died of brain cancer in 2020. Voci testified that Cameron was in the top five [lawyers] that Ive ever seen.)

Coyle, the judge, frequently grew exasperated with the back-and-forth, urging the attorneys to stay focused on the issues more central to McCafferys open records request.

It was not immediately clear how the judge might rule on that issue  or when. She is expected to review the newly disclosed file boxes, and could take days or weeks to reach a conclusion about whether those records or any others should be made available to McCaffery.

In addition, any decision Coyle makes could be appealed to a higher court. The case  already entering its fifth year  is therefore unlikely to be fully resolved any time soon.
Doylestown-set drama The Brutalist netted Adrien Brody his second Academy Award for his role in the locally-set historical epic.

Brody won his first Academy Award for best actor for his role in 2002s The Pianist.

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Set locally but filmed in Hungary, The Brutalist focuses on Jewish Hungarian architect Laszlo Toth (Brody) after his immigration the United States in 1947 following the Holocaust. In the film, Toth works with wealthy industrialist Harrison Lee Van Buren (Guy Pearce) to construct a community center in Doylestown.

Director Brady Corbet, who lost the Oscar for best director to Anoras Sean Baker, told The Inquirer that the film is set in Doylestown and Philadelphia because of the Northeasts role as a base for many prominent mid-century designers. The area, he added, is also a hotspot for modern architecture.

Hungary, meanwhile, served as the filming location because its architecture more closely resembled a Philadelphia of the 1950s and 1960s, Corbet said. The city, he added, has changed so much since that era that it is difficult to represent Phillys older self on camera.

The Brutalist went into the Academy Awards with 10 Oscar nominations under its belt.

The films successful night at the Oscars, however, continued its winning streak from the Golden Globe Globes in January. There, The Brutalist took home three awards for best motion picture for drama, best director for a motion picture for Corbet, and best performance by a male actor in a motion picture drama for Brody.

Currently, The Brutalist is available stream via popular services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. It holds an overall critic score of 94%, according to movie review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes.
A vial of a measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. A case of measles has been identified in the Philadelphia region as a larger, unconnected outbreak continues in West Texas. Read more

Health officials in Montgomery County announced over the weekend that a child in the county who was too young to be vaccinated had been diagnosed with measles.

Officials are still working on contact tracing for the child and their parents. Anyone who visited certain locations in North Philadelphia, Plymouth Meeting, and King of Prussia could have been exposed.

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In the last year, several cases of measles have been identified in the Philadelphia region; last winter, a measles outbreak sickened nine people and sent seven to the hospital.

New Jerseys Bergen County recently reported three measles cases, all in unvaccinated residents.

Heres what to know about measles and how to protect yourself.

Details on the case in Montgomery County

The measles case in Montgomery County was diagnosed in a baby who was too young to receive their first dose of the measles vaccine, said Richard Lorraine, the medical director of Montgomery Countys health department.

That child had recently traveled internationally to an area where measles circulates more widely, Lorraine said, then traveled home to Montgomery County through New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia.

Lorraine said that the county has no other cases currently. Officials have tracked a few people who were potentially exposed to the virus and also are not sure if they are immunized. These contacts were being checked for antibodies to the disease.

Theres a very good chance were not going to see additional cases, he said, noting the community has strong protection because of high rates of measles vaccination in Montgomery County  around 95%.

How is someone exposed to measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets from an infected person, either by people touching the droplets directly or coming into contact with airborne droplets after an infected person coughs or sneezes.

It can live for up to two hours in the air, even after an infected person leaves the area, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Thats why, when a measles case is identified, health officials often put out warnings listing public places recently visited by an infected person, to ensure that anyone who might have passed through the area can protect themselves.

The child in the Montgomery County case had been at True North Pediatrics Associates of Plymouth in Plymouth Meeting and CHOP King of Prussia Campus Emergency Department on Wednesday, Feb. 26. Between Tuesday, Feb. 25, and Wednesday, Feb. 26, the child had also traveled on a China Airlines Airport shuttle bus that left from John F. Kennedy Airport Terminal 4 in New York and arrived at Pho Ha Saigon in North Philadelphia.

 READ MORE: What to know about measles in children: Vaccination schedule and what measles rash looks like

What are the symptoms of measles? What is the likelihood of death from measles?

The virus early symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red and puffy eyes, and a rash. In serious cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, brain infections, and death.

In a large ongoing measles outbreak in West Texas, one child has died. The CDC says that about one in five unvaccinated people who contract measles will be hospitalized, and one in 20 children will develop pneumonia, the leading cause of death from measles in young children.

About one to three children out of every 1,000 infected with measles will die.

Can you get measles after vaccination?

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which most people get in childhood, is 93% effective at preventing measles after one dose and 97% effective after two doses. A small number of people can get measles after being vaccinated, especially amid an outbreak; in the West Texas outbreak, about 5% of those infected were already vaccinated, consistent with what we have seen in previous years, the CDC wrote on its website.

 READ MORE: As flu slams the Philly region, the FDA cancels a meeting on next seasons vaccines

But vaccinated people who get infected generally have a milder illness and are less likely to spread the virus to others, the CDC says.

What to know about measles vaccines

The CDC encourages most people who can to get vaccinated against measles. Even unvaccinated people who have been exposed to the virus may get some protection against the virus if they get vaccinated within 72 hours, the CDC says. Exceptions include people who are pregnant or who have weakened immune systems or severe allergies to a vaccine component.

People without written documentation of an MMR vaccine should also get vaccinated, the CDC says: The MMR vaccine is safe, and there is no harm in getting another dose if you may already be immune to measles, mumps, or rubella.

Some people who received a measles vaccine in the 1960s might need to get another vaccine: Between 1963 and 1967, an ineffective measles vaccine that used an inactivated virus was distributed. The CDC says that people vaccinated before 1968 with an inactivated measles vaccine or a vaccine of unknown type should get at least one dose of a measles vaccine that uses a live virus.

People born before 1957 are considered immune to the virus, the CDC says, although people in that age group who work in health care and dont have lab evidence of either immunity or a prior case of the disease should consider an MMR vaccine.

Between 1968 and 1989, most patients received one dose of a measles vaccine. People vaccinated in that time period can ask their providers about receiving a second dose as well, Lorraine said.

Most children get their first measles vaccine around 12 months old and their second around 4 years old. Babies 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally should get one dose of the vaccine, and babies who have had an MMR dose before their first birthday should get two more doses starting at a year old, the CDC says.

Lorraine said that parents can also ask their doctors about getting their childs second vaccine slightly early if they are planning to travel internationally or to a place in the United States where a measles outbreak is occurring, like Texas.

The case in Montgomery County can serve as a reminder for adults to make sure theyre up to date on all their vaccines, Lorraine said. Its a good time to double check your immune status, he said.

Editors note: This story was updated with additional information about the Montgomery County case, and to clarify the number of hospitalizations in an outbreak last year in Philadelphia.
A measles case in Montgomery County and outbreaks in other parts of the country have parents of young children worried about their risk.

The local cases, including one in Montgomery County and three in northern New Jersey, have been among patients who were unvaccinated. A baby who was too young to receive their first dose of the measles vaccine is the first case seen in Pennsylvania this year, said Richard Lorraine, the medical director of Montgomery Countys public health department.

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The virus is known for being highly contagious  a person who is sick can spread the virus to up to 18 unvaccinated people, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. By comparison, one person with seasonal flu will spread the virus to about two unvaccinated people.

The measles vaccine, whose first dose is recommended at 12 months of age, is highly effective against the virus. The disease was essentially eradicated in the United States because the vast majority of children were routinely vaccinated as part of school immunization requirements. But as vaccination rates have dipped, outbreaks have become more common.

In the last year, several cases of measles have been identified in the Philadelphia region; last winter, a measles outbreak sickened nine people and sent seven to the hospital.

The latest outbreak in Texas has sickened more than 100 people, making it the largest in recent years, and one child has died, the first such death in this country in a decade. But medical experts urged families to remain calm.

Its not a time to panic, said Karen Ravin, division chief of infectious diseases at Nemours Childrens Health, Delaware Valley. Its a time to do the things we know are the right things to do  get everybody up to date on their vaccines.

But some worried parents are asking: What about babies who are too young to be vaccinated?

The Inquirer spoke with Ravin and Daniel R. Taylor, medical director of the outpatient center at St. Christophers Hospital for Children and a frequent contributor to The Inquirer, about what families of young children should know about measles.

What does measles look like, and what are the symptoms?

Measles symptoms resemble other common childhood illnesses, but occur all together.

Early symptoms include a relentless cough, runny nose, and red, puffy eyes similar to conjunctivitis or pink eye.

A red, blotchy rash of small raised patches begins on the face and spreads downward across the body. Redness may be less vibrant on darker skin, but will still be apparent.

Its the combination of the three, Taylor said. If you have a kid with pink eye, cough, rash  and usually a fever, as well  were isolating the room.

In serious cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, brain infections, and other organ complications.

How deadly is measles?

About one in 1,000 children affected with measles will die, according to the CDC.

One in five unvaccinated people who contract measles will be hospitalized, and one in 20 children will develop pneumonia, the leading cause of death from measles in young children, according to the CDC.

How does the measles vaccine work?

The measles vaccine contains a tiny dose of weakened, live virus that teaches the immune system to recognize the virus and develop antibodies against it. Vaccines against smallpox and chickenpox are other examples of such live-attenuated vaccines.

Live-attenuated vaccines can provide lifelong protection. One dose of the measles vaccine provides 93% protection against the virus; a second dose increases immunity to 97%, according to the CDC.

At what age should children be vaccinated for measles?

Most children get their first measles vaccine around 12 months old and their second around 4 years old. Children who were not vaccinated at the recommended age can still get the vaccine.

Can my child be vaccinated early?

Maybe. Talk to your pediatrician.

Babies 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally to a country with a known measles risk should get one dose of the vaccine. Babies who have had an MMR dose before their first birthday should get two more doses starting at a year old, according to the CDC.

Doctors may also recommend the vaccine for babies at least 6 months old whose families live in a community with a documented outbreak.

Lorraine said that parents who are traveling abroad or to a place with significant measles cases, like Texas, can talk to their doctor about getting a childs second MMR dose early as well.

The child in the case reported this weekend had recently traveled internationally to an area where measles circulates more widely, Lorraine said, then traveled home to Montgomery County through New York, New Jersey, and Philadelphia.

 READ MORE: What to know about the Montgomery County measles case identified over the weekend

Why is 12 months the recommended age for the first dose?

The vaccine is not given to babies younger than 6 months because infants are protected by antibodies they receive from their mothers for several months after birth, longer if they are breastfed.

People with immune deficiencies must take extra precautions and consult their doctor before getting the measles vaccine, because it contains weakened live virus. Immune deficiencies that would prevent a child from getting the measles vaccine are rare, but typically dont become apparent until babies are several months old  another reason medical experts suggest following the recommended vaccination schedule, Taylor said.

What should I do if I think my child has measles?

Call your pediatrician immediately. If they decide your child needs emergency care, the doctor can alert the hospital to prepare an isolated room and an arrival plan to minimize the risk of spreading the virus to other patients and families at the hospital, Taylor said.

In an emergency, call the hospital to let them know you think your child has measles. If calling 911, tell the operator you suspect measles.

If possible, isolate the child at home to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other family members.

What can I do to protect my child who is too young to be vaccinated?

Educate yourself, be vigilant, and try to stay calm.

Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of measles and have a plan of what to do if you believe your child is sick.

Do not allow your children to spend time with peers who are sick, if possible. Parents who are worried about the virus may choose to avoid crowds.

Practice good hand hygiene and teach children to do the same.

Can I get the measles vaccine during pregnancy?

No, people who are pregnant cannot get the measles vaccine.

People who are pregnant are at greater risk for contracting measles if they have not been vaccinated. If you think you have measles and are pregnant, talk to your doctor about medications that are safe during pregnancy.

Staff writer Aubrey Whelan contributed to this article.
The Philadelphia region is weathering a particularly serious flu season as actions from President Donald Trumps new administration raise questions about federal health agencies approach toward annual efforts to protect people with vaccines.

The first week of February saw more flu cases in Pennsylvania than any other week over the past five years with almost 29,000 infections, data from the state Department of Health show.

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This years uptick is adding to the worries of public health experts already concerned about the Trump administrations early moves. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration canceled a meeting of the advisory committee that helps to select the strains of flu that will be targeted by next seasons vaccines.

The administration has already attempted to cut scientific research funding, frozen communications at federal health agencies, and pulled data from those agencies webpages. Earlier last month, the administration postponed a meeting of another advisory committee on vaccines at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Paul Offit, a nationally renowned vaccine expert who directs the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, serves on the FDAs Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee. He said there was no explanation given for the cancellation.

Typically, the committee, an independent group of epidemiologists and physicians that reviews vaccines for their safety and efficacy, meets each year in late winter or early spring to determine which flu strains will be circulating in the next flu season, based on data from the World Health Organization. Then, pharmaceutical companies develop vaccines to protect against those strains.

A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said in a statement that the FDA will make public its recommendations to manufacturers in time for updated vaccines to be available for the 2025-2026 influenza season.

The spokesperson did not respond to a question about how the agency plans to select a flu strain if its vaccine committee does not meet.

Offit called the cancellation especially troubling given the illness levels seen this winter. Its been a rough flu season  hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, tens of thousands of deaths, he said.

A wave of anti-vaccination sentiment is on the rise, coupled with dropping rates of childhood vaccination. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people forewent routine health care, some children did not get their recommended vaccines on time, according to a CDC report.

Between the 2019-20 flu season and the 2024-25 flu season, those vaccinations among children declined 16% in Pennsylvania and 8% in New Jersey.

The decreased rates are likely contributing to higher rates of flu here, said Perry Halkitis, the dean of Rutgers Universitys School of Public Health.

The [flu] vaccine doesnt mean you dont get it. It means that if you get it, its not that bad and you dont become contagious, he said.

Amid uncertainty over the federal governments health directives, Halkitis said, local and state health departments can help residents protect themselves during a severe flu season.

Hopefully, theyll provide guidance on what we should be doing for our vaccinations, and what would be appropriate, he said.

 READ MORE: Philly scientists brace for a fight over vaccines and health policy with the Trump administration

Its also crucial for health agencies and physicians to stress the continued risks of diseases known to circulate each year like the flu, he said. About 40,000 people die of flu per year. About 50,000 a year die of COVID-19, which is still a serious threat to many, although no longer the pandemic emergency declared five years ago when it emerged as a novel virus for which no one had immunity or vaccine protections.

No one thinks about 40,000 people dying of flu or COVID  it just becomes normal. You have to put a face to it, in a way that makes it real, Halkitis said. We have to make it more of a human-based story about the 100,000 were going to lose this year from flu and COVID because weve not been good about our vaccinations.
Isis Williams (right), the president of Haddon Township Equity Initiative, greets volunteer Danielle Clauss before the start of a letter-writing event on behalf of Celal and Emine Emanet, the owners of Jersey Kebab. Read more

Alyse Robayo has never met Emine Emanet, but on Sunday afternoon, she sat at a folding table in a Haddon Township storefront writing a heartfelt letter on her behalf, addressing federal authorities who hope to deport Emanet and her husband, Celal.

This is a great injustice, said Robayo, of Voorhees. Theyre just good people, and they shouldnt have been targeted.

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Robayo was one of dozens of people who gathered a block from the Emanets restaurant, Jersey Kebab, to write missives to authorities that were notarized on site by volunteers.

On Tuesday, the Emanets were arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents at their Haddon Township restaurant. When their son Muhammed arrived at Jersey Kebab, he saw a federal marshal stationed outside the restaurant holding what he described as a machine gun, looking like were going to war. The family had never been in trouble with the law.

The Emanets entered the country legally in 2008 but lost status when their visas expired. They say they have never stopped seeking legal, permanent residency, but have been denied three times. Their most recent application has been pending for nine years.

Emine Emanet is still being held in an Elizabeth, N.J., detention center; Celal Emanet was released with an ankle monitor.

ICE officials, in a statement issued Friday, noted that the agency is authorized to investigate and enforce immigration laws, particularly in cases where immigration violations intersect with national security, public safety and transnational crime. The Emanets were served a notice to appear before an immigration judge and place[d] in removal proceedings.

President Donald Trump promised a crackdown on immigrants when he was elected; other raids have happened locally since January. But the Emanets arrest has galvanized the community  and people all over the United States and beyond  in a major way.

As of late Sunday, $310,000 had been crowdfunded to aid the familys legal defense and cover lost income; Jersey Kebab is closed while the couple fight deportation.

These are our beloved small-business owners that make our community what it is, said Becky Reiser, a cofounder of Haddon Township Equity Initiative, the civic group that sponsored the letter-writing session.

The Emanets and their restaurant are a fixture in the area.

They let folks who cant afford it enjoy their food free of charge, because thats who they are, said Isis Williams, another Haddon Township Equity Initiative cofounder who helped organize the event. Were standing in the gap for them. This is our way of doing something.

Gretchen Siebert, of the group Cooper River Indivisible, knows the Emanets personally; she taught one of the Emanet children at a Cherry Hill public school and came to respect the family deeply.

They are emblematic of Turkish culture and Turkish hospitality, said Siebert. (At a rally held outside Jersey Kebab on Saturday attended by hundreds, the family offered free food to everyone who attended, despite the fact that they couldnt eat themselves because they are fasting for Ramadan.)

As Siebert wrote on a torn piece of notebook paper, she said she was acting not just for the Emanets, but for other immigrants in similar situations. But the Emanets are especially remarkable, she said.

Though her family and friends worry deeply for Emine Emanet, Muhammed Emanet told Siebert and others that his mother has found purpose behind bars: Her roommate is a Ukrainian woman who was struggling in their shared cell. Emine Emanet bathed her; another inmate styled the womans hair.

She feels shes been put there to take care of this woman, Siebert said of Emine Emanet.

Kristen Jandolis family orders takeout from Jersey Kebab. The food is tasty  the baklava is her favorite, Jandoli said  and the family are always encouraging customers to try something, no charge.

Though Haddon Township leans Democratic, not everyone feels the same way politically, Jandoli said. But she believes the Emanets fight is a flashpoint.

It has opened peoples eyes, putting a human face on the harmful policies of the Trump administration, said Jandoli.

Gabe Robayo is on spring break from Temple University, where hes a junior. The 20-year-old joined his mother at the letter-writing event because, he said, it felt like both something that could help people who deserve it, but also a larger moment.

This isnt about countering criminals or ending the border crisis, this is fearmongering, Gabe Robayo said. Now, more than ever, its important for good people to resist this.

Staff writer Jeff Gammage contributed to this article.
A 3D graphical representation of a spherical-shaped measles virus particle that is studded with glycoprotein tubercles. Read more

Montgomery County officials have released additional details about the regions first 2025 confirmed case of measles, including the places the unvaccinated child visited before their emergency room diagnosis.

The countys Office of Public Health is still working on contact tracing along with the childs parents. Meanwhile, anyone who visited the following locations last Tuesday and Wednesday could have been exposed:

From Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 9:30 p.m. to Wednesday, Feb. 26, at 3:15 a.m.

China Airlines Airport Shuttle Bus, departing from JFK Airport Terminal 4 and arriving at Pho Ha Saigon, 757 Adams Ave., in North Philadelphia.

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Details about exposure during air travel are not yet available, a Montgomery County spokesperson said.

Wednesday, Feb. 26, from 11:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.

True North Pediatrics Associates of Plymouth, 3031 Walton Rd., #C101, Plymouth Meeting.

Wednesday, Feb. 26, from 12:52 p.m. to 3:02 p.m.

CHOP King of Prussia Campus Emergency Department, 550 S. Goddard Blvd., King of Prussia.

The unidentified child arrived at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia in King of Prussia on Wednesday, according to the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health. No other information about the child has been made public.

The measles case was not only the first in the region this year, but in all of Pennsylvania, amid a national surge of the highly contagious virus. So far this year, 164 measles cases have been reported across nine states, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventions most recent data.

Measles is transmitted by air or through touching infected surfaces, according to the CDC.

Symptoms such as a high fever, cough, rash, and lesions on the inner lining of the cheek can appear a week or two after exposure. In some cases, inflammation of the brain, respiratory failure, and death can be among the outcomes of contracting the virus.

It can be particularly dangerous for pregnant people, immunocompromised people  including organ transplant and chemotherapy patients and people living with HIV/AIDS  and children under 5.

Between one to three in 1,000 children who contract measles will die, according to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.

Montgomery County recommends folks check their vaccination status. If you suspect measles, the Office of Public Health recommends calling your health-care provider, urgent care, or emergency room before leaving your house. Or dial 610-278-5117 to have the Office of Public Health facilitate the visit.

In Philly, the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is free to all residents at any Philadelphia health center. For an appointment, call (215) 685-2933.

Staff writers Earl Hopkins and Abraham Gutman contributed to this article, which also contains information from the Associated Press.
Fire crews battle a 4-alarm fire broke out at that SPS Technologies complex in Montgomery County on Feb. 17. Read more

Four law firms want to merge their class-action lawsuits against SPS Technologies over last months four-alarm factory fire in Montgomery County that led to school closures, halted SEPTA trains, triggered evacuations, and prompted Abington officials to declare a disaster emergency.

The lawsuits were brought on behalf of a school bus driver for Abington School District, co-owners of an auto service business that is less than a mile from the SPS facility, and a resident in neighboring Jenkintown whose apartment was engulfed in smoke and has experienced coughing and chest pain.

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The firms asked a Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas judge to consolidate the three lawsuits against the aerospace parts manufacturer because they arise from the same transaction or occurrence, involve common questions of law and fact, and concern substantially the same set of parties, witnesses, and documents, according to a court filing.

Merging the lawsuits would reduce the costs of litigation, prevent duplicative efforts, and prevent inconsistent verdicts, the court filing said.

The complaints accuse SPS of failures to inspect, properly maintain, and/or operate its facility and say the company failed to uphold industry standards, causing damage to hundreds if not thousands of persons.

SPS did not respond to a request for comment.

 READ MORE: Inside volunteer firefighters grueling effort to battle the SPS Technologies factory blaze

Attorneys from Philadelphia-based firms Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky and Levin Sedran & Berman would litigate the case with lawyers from Tennessee-based Stranch and Jennings & Garvey and New York-based Coleman Bryson Phillips Grossman.

The firms attorneys designated to lead the case did not respond to requests for comment.

I think there are legitimate concerns that peoples health and safety may have been impacted, Patrick Howard, the Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky attorney on the case, told The Inquirer last month.

At least one other class action that is not part of the consolidated cases is pending in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas. Its not clear whether that class action will also be consolidated.

A webpage is dedicated to the class-action lawsuit on the website Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky, which represented victims of high-profile cases, including the 2013 Salvation Army Building collapse and the 2023 Port Richmond explosion on New Years Day. The webpage provides information to people who are potentially impacted and looking to be part of the litigation.

If the Court formally decides the case can proceed as a class action, you will get a notice advising you of your rights, the webpage says.

SPS is owned by the Precision Castparts unit of Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway Corp. After a series of explosions in the Abington facility, a fire, which drew responders from nearly 80 fire companies, burned for five days before it was extinguished.

Because of concerns that flames touched harsh chemicals the factory used to produce specialized metal bolts and fasteners for clients such as Boeing, NASA, and the military, Abington Township officials issued a shelter-in-place order and a voluntary evacuation order in the first day.
The SS United States is under tow on the Delaware River on its the way to Alabama Read more

The SS United States, the former luxury ocean liner that was parked in South Philadelphia for almost 30 years, has reached Mobile, Ala., faster than expected and in one piece, proving skeptics wrong.

Colloquially known to many Philadelphians as the Ikea Boat  for its proximity to the Swedish big-box store  the vessel languished at its berth at Pier 82 for years until a federal judge ordered that it leave.

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After an 11th-hour sale to Okaloosa County, Fla., which aims to transform the vessel into an artificial reef, the ship finally set sail about two weeks ago for Alabama, where it is slated to undergo months of environmental remediation.

According to the ships previous owners, the SS United States Conservancy, the trip was about 1,800 miles. Because the 990-foot behemoth is incapable of self-propulsion, it had to be towed by several tugboats out of Philly with one guiding the ship for the rest of the journey. The trip to Alabama was the SS United States 401st voyage, according to the conservancy.

In the spirit of her record-breaking history, Americas Flagship concluded her journey from Philadelphia to Mobile faster than anticipated, said conservancy president Susan Gibbs. As she moved through the waves for the first time in 28 years, countless onlookers and admirers along the countrys eastern seaboard were inspired by her majesty and beauty.

The SS United States continues to hold the record for fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, set in July 1952 on its maiden voyage, of 3 days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes.

From Philadelphia, to Fort Lauderdale and South Beach, fans old and new shared photos of the vessels journey.

Of note, the vessel appeared to be taking the trip quite well despite earlier concerns by the U.S. Coast Guard that the SS United States might not be seaworthy. After additional inspections, the Coast Guard gave the green light for the journey, though some casual observers remained skeptical.

Mike Vinik, captain of the Vinik No. 6 tugboat that towed the ship to Alabama, told media that he experienced winds reaching 45 mph and waves 14 feet high in the first few days of the journey.

Okaloosa County purchased the ship for $1 million and committed $9.1 million more to clean, transport, and submerge the vessel, as well as build a land-based museum to honor its history. Tourism officials aim to have the ship underwater before years end.

The conservancy also plans to release a documentary about the ship, which iwhich would include the journey from Philadelphia to Mobile.

During the ships time in Philly, various owners sank more than $40 million into buying, maintaining, and reimagining the SS United States.
Emerald Mine, an abandoned coal mining facility, is seen cresting above the residential neighborhoods of Waynesburg in Greene County, Pa. Read more

Mine reclamation isnt just about fixing old scars on the landscape  its about protecting people, creating good jobs, and ensuring a safe and thriving future for our communities. The recent federal funding freeze on the Abandoned Mine Land program put all this at risk, jeopardizing workers livelihoods, public safety, and environmental restoration.

While the funding has now been unfrozen  thanks to Gov. Josh Shapiros litigation and advocacy at the White House  some uncertainty remains, and the situation has already created unnecessary hardship for Pennsylvania businesses and workers.

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For generations, coal mining powered our economy, but it also left behind dangerous abandoned mine lands that continue to impact residents today. These sites threaten our health, homes, and environment, disproportionately affecting rural areas.

In Pennsylvania, where coal mining was once a cornerstone industry, the consequences are everywhere: sinkholes swallowing roads and homes, toxic runoff polluting our waterways, and underground fires threatening critical infrastructure. The Abandoned Mine Land program is a lifeline, funding projects that clean up these hazards, provide stable jobs, and restore our land for future generations.

When an abandoned mine collapsed beneath a neighborhood in Fayette County, buckling a homes foundation and tearing apart the roadway, the Pennsylvania Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation sprang into action. The agency partnered with Howard Concrete Pumping and its union workforce to pump a concrete-like grout into the sinkhole and stabilize the ground, ensuring the family could return safely to their home. This is just one of 127 emergency projects Pennsylvania tackled in 2018 alone, thanks to Abandoned Mine Land program funding.

The impact of this funding goes beyond emergencies. In 2019, a project in Westmoreland County stabilized the land under 144 properties, preventing future disasters before they happened. A decade ago, reclamation workers in Clearfield and Elk Counties restored 33 miles of orange-tinted, polluted streams, bringing back fish and recreation to the region. And in 2014, crews contained a mine fire dangerously close to Pittsburgh International Airport, protecting travelers and critical infrastructure.

These projects dont just improve safety, they create opportunities, and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation advances dozens of cleanup projects like these every year. The Abandoned Mine Land program funding supports nearly 1,000 good-paying jobs in Pennsylvania annually, helping workers build a career in environmental restoration and construction.

The 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law was a major victory, substantially increasing Abandoned Mine Land program funding to Pennsylvania. The commonwealth receives $245 million in federal funds from this law for the abandoned mine program  and around $50 million in additional federal mine reclamation grants  every year, according to analysis by the Ohio River Valley Institute.

These funds were meant to accelerate cleanup efforts and support more jobs. But when federal funds were frozen, it sent shock waves through Pennsylvanias mine reclamation efforts. Though the funding has since been restored, the pause created serious uncertainty for businesses and workers who rely on these projects. The long-term impacts are uncertain.

Many mine reclamation projects in Pennsylvania are paid for upfront by businesses or local organizations, which are then reimbursed by the state. The Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation, which is working on a federally funded reclamation project in Luzerne County, for example, often has to make outlays on reclamation-related work, and then seek reimbursement.

Even the threat of future freezes could cause businesses to pause or delay work, fearing they wont be reimbursed. The chaos surrounding this funding has real consequences for Pennsylvania workers and families. These disruptions have made it clear: While the unfreezing of funds is a significant victory, our work is far from over.

We must ensure all promised funding reaches Pennsylvania communities, and that future federal funding remains secure. Gov. Shapiro plans to move ahead with his lawsuit in pursuit of a binding agreement regarding federal funds, and we need to ensure federal agencies uphold their commitments and prevent future disruptions.

We are calling on Pennsylvanias leaders to join the governor in this fight. This is not a partisan issue  its about standing up for Pennsylvania families, workers, and communities. We must remain ready to defend these vital investments whenever they come under threat.

We need certainty, not crisis after crisis. Pennsylvanias future depends on it.

Eric Dixon is a senior researcher at the Ohio River Valley Institute.
While insurers are already assisting impacted customers in their recovery, we understand that having the opportunity to hear from representatives in person and ask questions can be invaluable in understanding the claims process and helping people get back on their feet, Walter said.
The Awards provide a valuable opportunity for individuals and businesses to gain recognition for their contributions to the industry. They encourage us to continue pursuing excellence, innovation and customer satisfaction, Katrina Shanks, CEO of ANZIIF.
The company also noted that the facility is backed by Zurich Insurance with an AA rating and supported by a consortium of highly rated global reinsurers. According to Blue Marble, the facility is structured to be agile and responsive, with capacity allocated to regions and sectors where it is most needed.
Key developments in 2024

Last year, Brit expanded its operations in Bermuda with the launch of Brit Re. The company said it remains committed to improving its underwriting capabilities, including the introduction of new strategic pricing and rating engines.
Following the attack, Terhune revealed in an internal company-wide email that he had received a threatening message from someone claiming responsibility for the shooting. "We have received an email threat purporting to be the person(s) responsible. Although it does not target any specific employee, the email references knowledge of employee and relatives' names and addresses," he wrote. He advised SAIF employees to be cautious and remain aware of their surroundings.
Following the bills passage, Kemp said in a statement that the Senates unanimous approval of SB 69 sends the second part of the states tort reform package to the House. Kemp thanked those who have supported the reforms, saying business owners across Georgia have made clear that the changes are needed.
Policyholders cannot file a bad faith lawsuit unless a court has ruled that the insurer breached the contract.

Appraisal awards do not count as proof of breach.

The law applies to claims for extra-contractual damages under section 624.155.

In 2023, Vo filed a bad faith lawsuit against Scottsdale, arguing that the insurers conduct throughout the claims process had been unfair and deceptive. Scottsdale moved to dismiss the case, citing the newly enacted section 624.1551. The insurer argued that Vos claim had settled through an appraisal and not a court ruling, meaning she had no legal standing under the new law. The trial court agreed with Scottsdale and dismissed the case, ruling that Vo had not met the new statutory requirements.
Fires spurred by climate change have also ravaged communities in our state, testing our patience and resilience as we struggle under the weight of natural disasters in our backyards, Lujan Grisham said in her address. As if the fires themselves arent difficult enough, getting insurance protection is becoming impossible, either because its simply no longer available or exorbitantly expensive.
This will be the first state to really adopt an idea of creating a specific rider, effectively, like we have for flooding in our homes, Morgan said. This will be an additional rider for someone who has a firearm in their home.
The financial strain at BCBSMA mirrors broader challenges within the healthcare system, where hospitals and insurers alike are struggling to manage skyrocketing costs. BCBSMA President and CEO Sarah Iselin previously warned at a Health Policy Commission hearing in November that hospitals across the state are losing money, and health plans are facing similar pressures. She cautioned that tensions between insurers and providers over pricing are likely to intensify in the coming months.
Renowned as trusted advisors excelling in innovation, problem-solving, and client service, Insurance Business Americas Top Specialist Wholesale Brokers of 2025 utilize their vast expertise to ensure that hard-to-place risks meet the correct coverage lines.

Data published by The Council of Insurance Agents & Brokers showed premiums rose by an average of 5.1 percent across all account sizes in the third quarter of 2024, from the 5.2 percent increase in the previous quarter.

Medium-sized account premiums saw the highest increase out of all three account sizes, at an average of 5.6 percent. Carrier competition for small business likely led to small account increases coming in as the lowest of all account sizes, at 4.4 percent.

Apart from umbrella, all lines of business saw lower increases in premiums in this quarter than in the second quarter of 2024. Similar to last quarter, three lines of business recorded premium decreases this quarter: workers compensation, cyber, and D&O.

Looking specifically at excess and surplus (E&S) lines, one can observe a growth surge by double-digit percentage rates for five consecutive years. Solid underwriting results created profitability due to emerging new risks and declining capacity in admitted markets, according to the Insurance Information Institutes (Triple-I) Excess and Surplus: State of the Risk report.

By meeting the insurance needs of risks with lower claim frequency and higher claim severity, the E&S lines have seen significant growth, though the trend of expansion appears to be slowing down a bit, says Dale Porfilio, Triple-Is chief insurance officer.

A significant part of E&S growth can be seen in lines such as liability, fire, earthquake, flood, and ocean marine insurance. Since 2018, the E&S share of total property lines direct premiums written has grown the most in three markets: Florida, California, and Louisiana.

Amwins shared its insights into the property market by stating, Despite pending losses from Hurricanes Helene and Milton  as well as other named and severe convective storms (SCS) this season  the property market has continued to soften overall. New capacity continued to enter the space in 2024, forcing existing markets to become more flexible with their pricing and overall appetites. Many carriers also increased their line sizes, making layered and shared deals easier to place. Rates remain softer on the East Coast than the West as well as for insureds with large TIV overall.

The US insurance brokerage market is estimated at $67.89 billion in 2024 and predicted to grow at a CAGR of 3.96 percent until 2029.

Along with growth, other trends witnessed across the industry include:

an increase in mergers and acquisitions , which has made the sector more profitable

Insurance Business Americas research team invited insurance professionals to nominate the top specialist brokers in the country over the past 12 months, factoring in their contributions to the financial success of clients and business partners in 2024.

Industry respondents highlighted key areas where the Top Specialist Wholesale Brokers excel, such as:

The Top Specialist Wholesale Brokers value propositions are linked to measurable financial success, indicating strategic importance such as:

Staying abreast of trends and continuous learning are also cited as important by:



A construction expert and industry leader overseeing WestPacs brokerage and underwriting teams while maintaining his own book of business, Jared Boring serves as a resource to independent agents, especially with complex E&S risks such as wraps, project-specific policies, and builders risk.

In addition, Boring plays a vital role in advocating for the construction industry, managing carrier relationships, and driving WestPac forward amid market challenges.



Im a problem solver, especially in the E&S space. Were here to navigate gray, not black and white. Were here to provide solutions for our clients Jared Boring WestPac

As the firms top producer, he increased his revenue by 19 percent from 2023 to 2024, and correspondingly, WestPacs year-over-year revenue increased by 15.5 percent.

Our company feels that its all about anticipating a customers need, understanding the exposures, as well as the policy language, and then how all of those things interact with the insurance operations, he says. Oftentimes, when were submitting an account or working with our carrier partners, well ask for coverages that the retail agent may not necessarily have requested or asked us for.



Specializing in casualty, specifically heavy civil/infrastructure contractors and complex risks, Goldie is highly trusted in a niche where relationship capital is built by years of performance.

Promoted to Northern California casualty practice leader due to her success, she doubled the accounts serviced in her specialty in 2024 and added 55 new clients.



Being honest and transparent has always been my brand. I dont hide anything, I put things out there and people can make their decisions on them. Im somebody that people can trust on both sides of the transaction Liz Goldie Amwins

Being hyper-aware of whats happening in the market is her calling card.

I know what type of results my colleagues are getting in terms of pricing and Im not afraid to utilize that to my clients benefit. I want to make sure that my clients are getting the best numbers in front of them. Explaining how you get the numbers but also having an honest relationship with underwriters is super important to me. My underwriters know, when I give them a number, its not because I made it up out of nowhere, I have a reason, Goldie says.

She appreciates that she often ends up in a middle position, but rather than shy away, embraces this.

Our job is to understand what the needs are and insure them appropriately, she says. You have to understand that as a wholesaler, you are the mediator. Nobodys going to walk away happy, but its about how you keep both sides feeling that their needs have been met.



Specializing in property and builders risk for over 16 years and navigating complex relationships between carriers, Davis is often brought in for his ability to assemble the necessary capacity, especially in high-pressure situations.

He says, Almost every single project that comes in the door is individual and unique. You have to start from square one and we found the only way to get our clients the best coverage is by really focusing on it and doing it as much as possible.



Ive seen colleagues or competitors that are arguably a lot smarter than I am but havent been able to figure out that it isnt about you, per se. Its about how you empower the people around you

Michael Davis Brown & Riding

A major strength that Davis has is a vast track record he can call on.

Having experience you can draw on from other similar types of projects is certainly helpful, and the only way to do that is to really build a team that is focusing on this full time, he says.

Christopher Votta  Regional Practice Leader, Wholesure



Specializing in professional liability, Votta consistently helps agents win deals with his knowledge of products and markets. Agents send their toughest risks knowing Votta will find the correct coverages.

Highly dedicated to his agents and their success, Votta provides top-tier customer service and constantly champions his agents to insureds who have problems securing coverage.



Ive always made my bones in this industry by speed of service. I make sure that absolutely no one can respond quicker than I can

Christopher Votta Wholesure

His biggest challenge over the last 12 months has been to deal with pricing.

He says, Its related to carriers that are outliers that want to charge or still get rates for certain reasons, which are definitely valid. It could be an insurtech that runs a scan and finds a reason why theyre bumping the rate, even though revenues are the same as last year and controls havent changed. The thing is were still able to find other carriers out there that are pricing and expiring or less.

And he adds, The challenge for us has been explaining that to the customer and making sure they understand the reason why we remarketed.

John Grise  Executive Vice President, Amwins



Known for helping retail partners understand the difference and nuance of language in non-ISO-based coverage lines, in professional and management liability, Grise stresses the need to not commoditize buying behavior.

Its really digging into what that client needs specifically, whether it might be a coverage that is a manuscript or something that is customized or tailored specifically to that client. Obviously, being in the E&S space and the wholesale arena, we have a great level of flexibility to migrate over to a non-admitted product where we can be truly prescriptive and have bespoke coverage for each client, he says.



I look beyond my own book and put myself out there as a resource for carriers, for other brokers as well as clients

John Grise Amwins

Awareness is what Grise regards as essential to excellence as he has:

averaged 32 percent growth for each of the last three years



added over 1,400 new clients in 2024



He adds, The key component is understanding whats out there, whats available, and then understanding where individual pain points and needs are and being able to fulfill those in the best way possible.

Clay Fuchs, VP, Casualty  QuoteWell



Growing up in the oil patch in West Texas is the foundation of Fuchss passion for working with independent agencies serving local communities.

Fuchs helps to address general business and strategy needs in geographies economically dominated by energy, all while delivering cutting-edge risk transfer design and solutions for insureds.



Were not just focused on getting the client the best coverage and pricing. Its how were doing it

Clay Fuchs QuoteWell

I pride myself on putting full and complete submissions out as a starting point. When we send in a submission, our underwriters know its going to be full and complete, he says. With our agents, we must be transparent in our conclusions with the terms and conditions and pricing. Its not enough just to present a proposal; we have to do it in a timely manner and explain why its the best option.

Stephanie Buchanan, Broker, Assistant Vice President  Wholesure



Specializing in property/casualty, Buchanan has tripled the size of her book of business since 2020.



Number one for me is the responsiveness and customer service that we give to our retailers

Stephanie Buchanan Wholesure

I instill in my whole team the need to really be responsive and make sure were keeping our retail agents in the loop, she says. We send marketing summaries to say where weve gone, so they know weve shopped it everywhere we possibly can, to the best of our abilities, to get them not only the best price but the best coverages for what they need.

Grant Chiles, Executive Vice President  Amwins

In her role, Chiles customizes bespoke coverage placement solutions for large owners and developers, general contractors, municipalities, and homebuilders.

As the leader of the firms Builders Risk property practice group, he has averaged growth of 79 percent over the past three years and added over 280 clients in 2024. Chiles has an in-depth understanding of the construction space and his leadership is instrumental in helping clients understand evolving risks.



Were specialists in this space and have our thumb on the pulse of the market at any given point in time, which is key in the transitioning marketplace

Grant Chiles Amwins

No deal that we work on is going to be the same. Its going to be located in a different spot, it could be different types of construction, or there could be wind or flood exposure, he says.

The standout ability that Grise offers is being able to grasp what is required.

Its about being able to understand the needs from the client and dictating that to the market and the underwriters, to tailor specified coverage for what those needs are. A lot of pieces make each deal different, so its about understanding those and tailoring a solution.

Solving problems

When the rubber meets the road, the price of insurance has gotten exponentially more expensive for energy companies over the last 10 to 15 years. Every year, it just seems to go up, and its not because these insurance companies are making money hand over fist. Its because theyre facing significant losses, says Fuchs.

To combat this whenever he gets a submission, Fuchs studies the MSA and determines what coverage is really needed. This is enhanced by QuoteWell being tech-based and venture capital-backed.

Fuchs makes an effort to find out if any coverage is needed beyond the MSA.

I tell you, 95 percent of the time the answer is no and then from there, its also about pushing back on unreasonable requests. Sometimes, were getting requests for two $5 million each occurrence limits on the GL, and thats not really a thing that a lot of our insurance carriers are interested in doing, he says.

Harnessing the companys tech capabilities, Fuchs is able to go back and explain why that isnt the best way forward.

I tell them, We see this kind of request all the time and you should have the client work to push back, plus heres an alternative that you should be able to offer up and see if theyll bite on it. And nine times out of 10, we usually see it.

Its that approach that differentiates Fuchs and QuoteWell.

He says, Were working to try to redefine the way that E&S insurance is placed, and Im working to redefine the way that E&S insurance is placed within the energy industry. Were trying to bring back customer service into the space as this hard market over the last five to 10 years has really altered what customer service and what a reasonable timeframe is to get things done. Were using technology to redefine all of that.

Buchanan has made a name by taking on unusual risks. She cites the examples of an axe-throwing ring and an electric vehicle charging station.

Usually, the agents are in a pinch, they need us, and we step in. I call ourselves little detectives as we have to dig deep and see where we can go. We really try to treat all of our agents like best friends and value those relationships and keep building them, so were constantly giving that top-of-the-line responsiveness and service to them on the daily, he says.

Being able to rely on relationships to help her deliver was evidenced in a hard-to-place risk for a large scaffolding contractor in 2024.

I shopped it to literally everywhere I could, and I was just getting declined across the board. And my agent said, Okay, well, we have this quote, and its crazy high from another wholesaler and were going to have to go with it.

However, Buchanan had a trusted connection that she felt might just work and took the deal to them.

They turned it around for me and I almost fell off my chair that they quoted it for maybe $30,000 less than the competing quote. That was a really nice and a last-minute Hail Mary that I had an idea for, as I got that account in a pinch and on the effective day, she says.

This type of effort and proactive action has seen Buchanan double and almost triple her revenue for certain months in the past year.

Im going to hopefully do the same again this year because of the influx of business that we have, because so many policies are being non-renewed in the admitted markets with our retailers. Theyre coming to us way for many more things.

For Boring, anticipating customers needs, understanding exposures and policy language allows him to think outside of the box. He does this with a strong sense of being based in Colorado.

I believe were the only local independent wholesaler left in our state. We generally tend to work with local independent agents and theyre looking to partner with someone who is invested in their community just as much as they are, he says.

Being nimble and providing solutions are two qualities Boring places a premium on.

This year, we were able to successfully bring in two new markets to Colorado to write residential contractors that previously had steered clear from our state. We were able to help them gain a comfort level. We crafted some forms, shared our experiences on loss trends and were able to give recommendations on certain risks or exposures to avoid, he says.

Allied with that is clear and swift communication.

We want to be able to write every single account that we look at. However, sometimes that isnt possible. Our view is that a quick no is better than a drawn out maybe. Even if were not able to write that account, were still trying to go above and beyond by providing that communication and level of service, he says.

Taking a long-term view and being upfront serves Goldie well. This is showcased in how she approaches the significant impact of auto in her construction remit.

We understand carriers appetites for fleet sizes and place deals with people that we know arent going to walk away when the fleet gets a little bit higher, she says. Auto is a huge driver in the excess space, and we do what we can to combat that, but the reality is people have to drive to the job site, so were always going to have auto in the mix for our construction risks.

Preparing the next generation is a passion for Goldie. She is proudly part of Amwins Provisional Broker program, which involves advising up-and-coming brokers.

We often talk about the barbell that exists between the young and the older people who are going to retire. I spend a lot of time internally talking to people who are taking over books of business, and how distinctly different that is from building a book from zero, she says.

Davis has focused his attention on helping his team weather changing market conditions as 2024 saw almost double-digit rate decreases hit almost instantaneously in January.

We saw the tables turn pretty quickly, from a hardening position for most projects and most renewals for property to softening builders risk, especially wood frame builders, at a faster rate than everybody anticipated, he says.

This substantial softening and easing created an influx of capacity and an attractive area of investment for capital into the market and also lead to rate reductions of what had been seen in prior years.

This posed an issue for Davis, who hired the majority of this team from college over the past seven years.

These individuals hadnt actually been in a market environment with softening rates. While theyre very good brokers, they just hadnt been in an environment where they could push for rate reductions and expansion of terms for clients, he explains. That took a little bit of refocusing and shifting, and something that I didnt quite anticipate. These individuals just hadnt been in this type of environment before.

Being a true specialist means Davis can rely on various parts of the market and assemble the best way forward.

We work on property and builders risk, assembling capacity can be anywhere from quota sharing, layering or a combination of both, using the reinsurance market, the direct market, the E&S market, London market, and Bermuda market, he reveals. It becomes a game of Tetris in terms of assembling that capacity and finding the most efficient way to put it together.

He displayed those skills to perfection on a $5-billion stadium project for an NFL team.

I had about 48 hours to reshuffle the entire quota share panel of 32 carriers in order to get the capacity together in the right place. I was supposed to be on vacation at the time and I was doing it on a napkin in a ski lodge, figuring out the calculations of where to put everybody and weave it together. Being able to problem solve on the fly is critical, he says.

True experts

You have to understand the risk and the exposure to the risk because youre going to get applications from your agents that arent the most complete, says Votta.

His method is to split his market into tiers.

Tier 1 means a good couple of fast service underwriters, but also excellent broad terms and conditions. Tier 2 is that middle ground and Tier 3 is more hard to place. So, if I have some financially distressed risks that I need to place, I have to put that probably somewhere in Tier 2. But there may be an aggressive Tier 1, and I have one underwriter in mind that looks at those risks in a different way.

Another attribute Votta brings to the table is overcoming the vast amount of information available and understanding what moves the needle. He compiles the right parts of the right documents and gives them to his agents.

Its me telling them, Ive found this product or niche and heres new exposures that have come up with changing litigation or these new requirements are coming down the pipe for these contractors to have this type of coverage, he says.

The idea is so that Votta allows his agents to be the best possible scenario.

I pass what I feel are excellent explanations of coverage and options to the agent, as your agent doesnt want to confuse your insured. They also want you on the call with the insured and a lot of what Ive done to overcome those obstacles is talking it through with the insured, he says.

Once you explain it in laymans terms and you go through it in a little more detail, but not too much to confuse them, 99 percent of the time, youre going to make the sale easier for your agent, and youre going to get that bind order probably within a few days.

Construction expert Chiles believes being a true specialist has enabled him to build a reputation and become such a valued partner to clients.

Were the only wholesale team that only specializes in builder's risk. Most brokers are property brokers first, and then handle it as an offshoot of their current team structure, he says.

This unique position means Chiles and his team can leverage relationships to boost their offering.

Being the only ones who do what we do, we work with some of the most sophisticated clients, whether on the retail side or the building and development side, that recognize our expertise is needed to fulfill their requirements to get the best deal done and satisfy their lending and equity partner requirements.

Another factor that drives performance is how Chiles continuously monitors the market and its what enables him to stay ahead of the game.

He says, We went from a very hard market to a transitioning soft market by the end of Q3 and Q4 in 2024 and then into Q1 of 2025. For me, its being able to stay on top of market trends to make sure that we were still getting the best deal available. Our market is a very nimble mover and being specialists in this space, our job is to find the best coverage at the cheapest price that the market will bear.

Echoing these sentiments is Amwins colleague Grise, who says, We see a softening of the market, and have been for a past couple of years, whether or not thats in the public or private D&O and cyber. The challenge really is making sure we navigate that market and the various capacities out there in a way to bring value to our clients.

Grise is wary of never being completely price led as this could have knock-on effects.

Its making sure that downward pressure pricing doesnt come with restrictive terms. Some of the things that weve been doing as a practice group is using that amount of capacity and competitive nature in the marketplace to create customized forms that are exclusive to Amwins in our practice group.

A product being developed is a specific cyber program thats going to be supported by various facilities, with the mindset of best-in-class coverage form and competitive pricing.

We think itll put us in a position to stay ahead of some of the trends that we might see in the next 12 to 18 months, specifically in cyber where were starting to see some carriers whove taken losses and continue to take losses scale back on things like systemic risk, dependent business interruption exposures, and things of that nature that come from the Internet of Things and the connectivity of the world across various businesses, adds Grise.
Optio Group, the London-based independent specialty MGA, announced it has acquired Norwegian-based MGA S Insurance AS (S Insurance) for an undisclosed sum, subject to regulatory approval.

This acquisition follows Optios acquisitions of Netherlands and-Brussels based MGA Den Hartigh and Luxembourg-based Circles Group and its strategic investment in Italian MGA, Heca S.r.l.

Optio said the transaction is a further strategically significant step to create a diversified buy-and-build platform through the acquisition of speciality MGAs across Europe.

Headquartered in Bergen and with offices in Oslo, S Insurance specializes in marine hull, underwriting business globally with a strong market presence in Europe, and with ambitious plans to expand both its product and geographical reach.

The company was founded almost 10 years ago by Director Gary Sangedal, quickly developing an excellent reputation in the market as a result of its disciplined underwriting and strong broker and capacity relationships. This was recognized in 2022 with S Insurance becoming a member of The Nordic Association of Marine Insurers (CEFOR), which Optio said demonstrates its high standards and its provision of stable and reliable capacity to the market.

Sangedal will continue his role working closely with Managing Director Marianne Engelsen Hals and the S Insurance team.

S Insurance will complement Optios existing marine business, broadening its expertise and proposition. Scandinavias long-established marine industry, which is essential to the regions economy and supported by a highly regulated and growing MGA market, further made S Insurance an attractive target for Optio.

I am delighted to announce our latest acquisition, which marks a further important step in our ongoing European expansion, and to welcome Gary and the team to Optio, commented Deepak Soni, CEO, Optio Group.

S Insurance is an excellent example of the MGAs we are looking to invest in or acquire, with its entrepreneurial leadership, proven speciality capabilities and complementary cultures and values, Soni added. I look forward to working with Gary and the team to deliver the opportunities this partnership creates for our businesses, brokers and customers.

Optio provides us with access to broader expertise and the resources of a much larger group. This, in turn, opens up significant opportunities to accelerate our plans to expand our product offering and geographical footprint, according to Sangedal.

Optios entrepreneurial culture and approach to building lasting broker and client relationships mirror our own, and I very much look forward to working with Deepak to realise the value the combined capabilities of both businesses will create, Sangedal continued.

Source: Optio Group

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Insurance Wholesale
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has announced the acquisition of Dyste Williams, a Minneapolis-based retail insurance agency. The acquired company specializes in commercial lines, employee benefits, and personal lines services in the Upper Midwest region.

Ted Dyste, Nels Dyste, and their team will maintain their current location, operating under the Gallagher Agency Alliance division. They will report to Jen Tadin, who heads Gallagher Select, the companys U.S. property/casualty operations for small businesses and personal insurance.

The acquisition, announced on March 3, 2025, aims to strengthen Gallaghers small business capabilities. Gallagher Agency Alliance specifically focuses on merging with agencies specializing in small business property/casualty insurance and employee benefits. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions A.J. Gallagher Minnesota
A Missouri man on Friday admitted stealing railroad equipment on 33 occasions in Missouri and Illinois, costing railroads more than $1.5 million.

Jesse Henry, 21, of Laclede County, Missouri, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of damaging a railroad signal system. He admitted being responsible for a total of 33 thefts out of different railroad bungalows in Missouri and Illinois in 2022 and 2023. Henry stole railroad control equipment, signs, plans and blueprints from the bungalows, which are metal structures that contain railroad gear.

In the Spring of 2023, railroads noticed an increase in thefts and contacted local and federal law enforcement. Among the items that were stolen was a crossing controller at the Seeger Lane crossing in Foristell, Missouri on August 8, 2023. A passing train crew noticed that the crossing signal was not functioning and the gates blocking the road were down, creating a danger if vehicles drove around the gates. The FBI traced the theft to Henry and performed a court-approved search of his familys home near Richland, Missouri on Nov. 28, 2023. They recovered the crossing controller from Foristell, as well as blueprints, schematics, documents, dozens of signs and other items.

Henry is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4. The crime is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine.

The FBI investigated the case, with the assistance of the railroads. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Lang is prosecuting the case.

Source: Eastern District of Missouri

Topics Fraud Missouri
Johnson & Johnson told a judge its $9 billion proposal to settle baby powder cancer claims in bankruptcy court is the only viable way to end more than 15 years of litigation, while opponents assailed the companys efforts to line up support for its plan as deeply flawed.

Time is off the essence, J&Js lawyer, Alli Brown, said Friday in her closing argument to win approval of the plan that would resolve tens of thousands of lawsuits alleging that asbestos-tainted talc in its iconic product has sickened users.

Women suffering from ovarian and other cancers are dying daily, Brown said. Conventional personal-injury mass litigation has shown us its not a way to get a timely resolution.

A lawyer for opponents of the plan said cancer victims werent treated fairly and impartially in a pre-bankruptcy vote held last year to gauge support for J&Js settlement offer.

There were serious lapses here that justify having a re-vote, attorney Adam Silverstein told US Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez at the close of a trial in Houston. It was a chaotic process that should not be endorsed.

Johnson & Johnson is trying to use the bankruptcy process to close out the vast baby powder litigation after two earlier efforts failed in other courts. Lopez is navigating the intricacies of the law to determine whether J&Js efforts are proper.

Lopez heard about two weeks of testimony about whether J&J manipulated the pre-bankruptcy vote on the settlement and whether the company, which is profitable, is wrongly trying to benefit from Chapter 11 rules that should be reserved for financially distressed businesses.

Objectors contend J&J made false and misleading statements in disclosures of the bankruptcy plan about whether J&Js talc-based baby powder was ever tainted with asbestos. Brown contested that during the trial, saying the company had never wavered in the opinion that this product is safe and doesnt contain asbestos.

J&J says more than 80% of claimants voted to back the settlement and the company based its Red River Talc units fast-track bankruptcy case on that support. The companys lawyers said J&J clearly laid out the terms of its offers to current and future claimants and properly conducted the vote last summer.

The companys bankruptcy plan would pay an average of $120,000 to ovarian cancer claimants. Supporters of the offer say thats more than women have gotten through cases in the regular tort system.

Objectors complaints about the vote simply arent credible reasons to invalidate the balloting, Brown said. J&J maintains that it would take 6,000 years to try all pending baby powder cases. The company pulled the talc-based version of the product worldwide in 2023.

While most prominent mass-tort lawyers handling more than 60,000 baby powder suits filed so far favor the deal, a handful want Lopez to reject it. Opponents say J&J is improperly trying once again to use Chapter 11 to resolve the cases and improperly engineered the vote to push its settlement plan.

Silverstein told the judge J&Js handling of the vote wasnt kosher. Foes of the plan say there were a series of miscues by the company hired to handle the balloting, including switching votes opposing the plan to the supporting column.

For his part, Lopez  who has handled several cases involving pre-bankruptcy votes  said hed never seen a switch of votes in pre-packaged bankruptcies, but wasnt ready to sanction J&J over it.

The bankruptcy case is Red River Talc LLC, 24-90505, US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas (Houston).

Photo: Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
The cancellation of nearly three-dozen cybersecurity contracts at the US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau endangers the security of sensitive data maintained by the federal watchdog, a former senior official at the bureau said in court documents filed Friday.

Former CFPB chief technologist Erie Meyer said that a rush to terminate contracts raises serious concerns about data preservation and the bureaus overall ability to function. The cancellations came as part of a Trump administration effort to disable the CFPB by suspending its oversight, closing its Washington headquarters, and firing its director as well as many other employees.

The 32 cybersecurity contracts that were scrapped cover a range of services, including vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, security audit and log analysis, virtual private network deployment and management of IT networks, systems and applications, Meyer said in the filing.

That data is crucial to everything from identifying and assisting victims of consumer fraud and providing them with court-ordered relief, to tracking the financial information that is critical to the Bureaus role in helping to stabilize financial markets, to responding to consumer companies, Meyer said.

Spokespeople for the CFPB and the White House didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

The CFPB was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis to protect consumers and since then, has been repeatedly accused of overstepping its authority. President Donald Trumps pick to lead the agency  former Republican board member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Jonathan McKernan  told the Senate Banking Committee on Thursday that hes committed to right-sizing the bureau.

Elon Musks government efficiency team posted online some of the canceled contracts on February 14, a day before a court order was issued to preserve and not impair any data held by the Bureau. The cancellation of the contracts raises serious questions about whether the Bureau is taking the steps necessary to ensure compliance with the order, Meyer said in her filing.

Meyers declaration was filed alongside a lawsuit by the National Treasury Employees Union regarding the firing of employees by acting director Russell Vought. He stopped nearly all CFPB work when he took over on Feb. 7, and the bureau on Thursday dropped several Biden-era lawsuits against major lenders.

A hearing in the unions case is scheduled for March 3.

Photo: The US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau headquarters in Washington, DC. Photographer: Al Drago/Bloomberg

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics Cyber
Tsinghua to expand undergraduate enrollment, prioritizing AI+ talent cultivation

11:30, March 03, 2025 By Li Yawei ( Global Times

Tsinghua University, one of China's prestigious universities, plans to increase its undergraduate enrollment quota by approximately 150 students in 2025 and will establish a new undergraduate school dedicated to cultivating interdisciplinary talents integrating artificial intelligence (AI) with multiple disciplines, thereby advancing the development of AI-related professionals, the Xinhua News Agency reported on Sunday.

The newly founded school is expected to consolidate Tsinghua's advantageous academic resources, emphasizing the driving role of AI technologies in education, teaching and scientific innovation. Rooted in the integration of AI and other fields, it aims to pioneer AI-empowered educational paradigms to nurture versatile talents with profound AI literacy, technical mastery and exceptional innovative capabilities, Xinhua reported.

Tsinghua's initiative to expand enrollment and establish a school for cultivating "AI+" talent represents a pioneering and exploratory endeavor, which could motivate other domestic universities to increase their focus on and investment in AI, Liu Wei, director of the Human-Machine Interaction and Cognitive Engineering Laboratory at Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, told the Global Times on Sunday.

If successful, this initiative may act as a model, offering valuable experiences for other universities across China, Liu added.

Tsinghua University has already achieved milestones in AI talent training and AI-enabled education. Earlier in February, it offered a course on large language models (LLMs) and generative AI, which was enjoyed by students who flocked to the first class of this new semester, according to The Paper.

A university faculty member said that the course is part of Tsinghua's AI capability enhancement program, designed to instill AI principles and methodologies in students, systematically deepen their understanding of foundational AI knowledge, and nurture more "AI+" interdisciplinary innovators, said the report.

"My research is closely associated with the application of LLMs, this course provides me with a systematic understanding of the principles of AI and the application of mainstream technology, which is conducive to scientific research to a certain extent," Zhang Yiru, a student who has taken this course, told the Global Times.

In August 2024, the Department of Higher Education under China's Ministry of Education launched the 101 Plans in the AI field, involving 15 universities, such as Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Tongji University. It also confirmed the first batch of 15 foundational AI core courses, 10 scenario-and system-application-oriented advanced courses, and two hands-on practical training courses, as reported by the CCTV News.

These involved schools are contributing to the development of "AI+" talents with various programs. Fudan University has fully initiated its AI curriculum system development, introducing 116 AI-BEST courses designed to cover multi-tiered learning content from beginners to advanced levels, according to its official website.

Meanwhile, Shanghai Jiao Tong University recently developed a multimodal AI teaching system, tailoring an AI-powered anatomy course to explore new pathways for "AI plus medical education," according to Xinhua.

Liu said national initiatives like "the 101 Plan" aim to fully leverage human resources and build a talent force aligned with current demands. "Offering AI courses in universities and developing 'AI+' talents are also a response to the needs of the times, as what we are looking for is to bring out the potential of AI now," he said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
After reporting underwriting losses of $13 billion in 2022 and $14 billion in 2023, State Farm recorded another underwriting loss for 2024but narrowed it thanks to its auto insurance results.

State Farm reported a 2024 net income of $5.3 billion compared to a net loss of $6.3 billion in 2023. The reported net income for 2024 includes the impact of $3 billion of realized capital gains, net of tax.

With an underwriting loss of just over $6 billion for 2024, State Farms auto results drove the improvement. Though auto earned premiums jumped 20% to $67.5 billion, auto underwriting results were still written in red ink, but the underwriting loss was $2.7 billion in 2024$7 billion less than the $9.7 billion auto underwriting loss recorded in 2023.

Translated to a combined ratio, thats about a 104 for 2024more than 13 points better than 2023s auto combined ratio of roughly 117.

For property lines, earned premiums rose 13.1% to $34.5 billion, but underwriting losses improved by only $1.2 billion, coming in at $3.5 billion for 2024.

In total, State Farm said its property/casualty companies reported a combined underwriting loss of $6.1 billion on earned premium of $103.0 billion. The 2024 underwriting loss, combined with investment and other income of $6.0 billion, resulted in a P/C pre-tax operating loss of $111 million, compared to operating losses of more than $8 billion in the prior two years.

Total revenue, which includes premium revenue, earned investment income, and realized capital gains and losses was $123.0 billion for 2024, up 18% from $104.2 billion for 2023.

Auto Improvement vs. Competitors

Focusing on just the most improved part of State Farms P/C businessesthe personal auto resultsthe nearly 11.9-point drop in its loss and loss adjustment ratio was larger than three competitors, Progressive, GEICO and Allstate.

All four carriers reported improved underwriting results, but State Farms personal auto loss and LAE ratio, at 83.3, remained higher than the 81.5 auto combined ratio of GEICO, which includes underwriting expenses for the direct writer, GEICO.

Progressives 2024 combined ratio, 88.1, was only five points higher than State Farms loss ratio.

According to figures compiled by Carrier Management from financial reports of all four carriers, State Farm also reported lower growth in auto earned premiums than Progressive in 2024, with Progressives earned premiums jumping nearly 24%, beating State Farms 20% jump in earned premiums.

Financial Strength and Parental Support

In a statement, State Farm stressed the financial strength of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, noting the net worth for State Farm Mutual Auto ended the year at $145.2 billion compared to $134.8 billion at year-end 2023.

The financial strength of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and each of its affiliates is key to fulfilling our promises to customers in the future and expanding and enhancing the way we serve customers, the nations largest insurance group said in a statement.

State Farm also gave an update of the impact from the January 2025 California wildfires. As of February 26, weve received more than 11,750 total fire and auto claims related to the fires and have paid nearly $2.2 billion to our customers, said Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer Mark Schwamberger.

He added, The financial strength of each affiliate is critical to our ability to keep those promises, and we will continue to take a state-specific approach in the way in which we operate.

The reference to the separate financial strength of each affiliate appeared again in a footnote of the media statement: State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and each of its affiliates must meet solvency and regulatory requirements on an individual entity-by-entity basis without regard to the solvency or financial condition of any other affiliated entity.

That footnote is not new. It was included at the bottom of prior financial reports from State Farm. But this year, it seemed to take on more significance, with the focus on one particular affiliated entityState Farms California homeowners insurance company, State Farm General.

The question of whether State Farms parent company, State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, would be willing or able to provide financial support to State Farm General was raised by California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara during a meeting to discuss State Farm Generals request for his approval of an emergency interim rate increase last week. The meeting, which involved representatives of State Farm General, the department of insurance and consumer group Consumer Watchdog, took place just two days before State Farms overall financial results were published.

Beyond written responses State Farm General executives sent to Commissioner Lara in a letter the day before the meeting, a transcript of the proceedings that Carrier Management located online shows executives again stressed the need for individual affiliates to remain financially viable but indicated that the approval of a 22% emergency rate increase would help them in taking a request for support to the parent company board.

Keesha-Lu Mitra, senior vice president and general counsel, noted the State Farm Mutual board is comprised of all external, independent directors except for the State Farm Mutual chief executive officer. [T]heir fiduciary duties require them to exercise reasonable care, judgment, and diligence of what is in State Farm Mutuals best interest as an entity and its policyholder group as a whole of State Farm, she said, according to the transcript. The California company would expect the members of State Farm Mutuals independent board to give robust consideration to any request that might be presented to them for potential assistance, she added.

Dan Krause, president and CEO of State Farm General, then noted he would be the one who would be tasked with making such a request. There has to be some sort of positive sign that State Farm General would be able to sustain itself from a capital position to support its risk profile.Thats the purpose of the interim rate request. That would give us that type of a positive sign, both to the rating agencies and to any potential investors, including State Farm Mutual.

Thats the emergency basis of thisbecause it would help, at least, me [in] building a case to go to the Mutual board to ask for consideration, Krause said.

Later Lara asked again to clarify his understanding: An approval would help you potentially make a successful request to the parent company for additional support?

Krause replied: It would allow a positive sign that would show that this is a market that we can compete, generate a return in, and stay inand give us a chance for consideration for the parent company. Yes.

Exposure vs. Capital

When the commissioner asked the executives to comment on the idea hes heard from some constituents suggesting there is no benefit to consumersthat the rate increase is just a step in a financial bailout of State Farm GeneralSchwamberger ultimately said, The only other thing that we could do without rate and without the ability to increase capital, is to substantially reduce exposure.

Any other actions arent going to be enoughto prevent the unfortunate situation that could arise should we not have positive signs about the prospective ability to be self-sustaining, the CFO told Lara.

Meaning, you would continue to non-renew or have to cancel policies? Lara asked.

At the end of the day, yes, sir. To the degree you cannot be self-sustaining and you dont have viability and the capital to stand behind promises, [then] were left with no other alternative, Schwamberger responded.

Asked about the potential to pause non-renewals, Schwamberger said the short-term answer to that is no, explaining that it takes time to get rate and grow. [G]iven our current exposure and where we are, we would not be in a position to fiscally and responsibly starting to regrow within the California market just because of this rate in the very near term, he said, according to the transcript.

Both Schwamberger and Krause talked about State Farms desire to remain in California, however.

We look forward to some of the reforms, Schwamberger said, referring to the departments Sustainable Insurance Strategy reforms, which include allowing insurers to include the cost of reinsurance and to use forward-looking catastrophe models for provisions included in rate filing indications.

Weve been here for almost 100 years, added Kraise. We want to be here for 100 more, but weve got to be able to have thisfor State Farm General to survive.

Topics Trends Profit Loss Auto Underwriting
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP)  A Tennessee gynecologist was arrested Friday and accused of performing unnecessary procedures on patients with re-used medical devices held under unsanitary conditions.

Dr. Sanjeev Kumar, 44, is charged with enticing four people to travel interstate to engage in illegal sexual activity, adulteration of medical devices, misbranding of medical devices and health care fraud, the U.S. Attorneys Office in Memphis said.

Court records did not show if Kumar has a lawyer to represent him on the charges or speak on his behalf. There was no immediate response to a phone message left with his office.

Kumars medical practice is located in Memphis. From September 2019 to June 2024, Kumar is alleged to have sexually abused women by conducting unnecessary medical procedures with devices held under unsanitary conditions and re-used on patients when they were required to be thrown away or properly reprocessed.

Kumar did not tell patients that he was re-using the devices, prosecutors said, and also billed Medicare and Medicaid as if the procedures were necessary and as if he had used a new or properly reprocessed device each time.

Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren said Kumar was consistently the top-paid provider in Tennessee for Medicare and Medicaid for hysteroscopy biopsies, which allow doctors to look inside the uterus.

Federal authorities said there could be more patients affected by Kumars alleged acts.

The allegations indicate that Kumar acted as a predator in a white coat and used the cover of conducting medical examinations to put his patients at risk and enrich himself, Fondren said in a statement.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Tennessee
ATLANTA (AP)  Georgias state Senate wants to boost spending on Hurricane Helene relief even more, including creating a grant program that could provide aid to individuals.

The state Senate voted 55-1 last week to pass House Bill 67, which amends Georgias current state budget running through June 30. Senators and House of Representatives members must now work out their differences before the bill can go to Gov. Brian Kemp for his signature or veto.

The House had earlier added $150 million, including $75 million apiece for low-interest loans to farmers and the cleanup of downed timber on private lands, over what Kemp originally proposed. The Senate plan would spend $100 million apiece on both of those priorities, boosting the House proposal by another $50 million.

Helene caused more than $5 billion in damage to farming and forestry in Georgia, estimates show.

The Senate also wants a $25 million fund to pay for charities to give grants to people who are in need after the storm, boosting what had been a House plan for $10 million in grants to rural communities.

We have people who arent farmers. They arent timber owners. Theyre not small governments themselves, but theyre still hurting too, said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Blake Tillery, a Republican from Vidalia. In fact, in my district, about every third house still has a blue tarp on the roof. They either havent been able to resolve their insurance claim yet, or theyve not been able to find a contractor who could come to replace that roof.

The Senate also added another $50 million to help pay for the state and local share of debris removal after Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump rejected pleas for the federal government to pay 100% of the costs for six months. Instead, after 120 days, the federal share fell to 75%.

If lawmakers ultimately agree, Georgia would spend more than $850 million to aid local governments and individuals after Helene cut a swath across eastern Georgia.

Lawmakers are considering tax breaks for farmers and timber growers that could boost relief costs well above $1 billion.

The budget also includes $1 billion for a third round of income tax rebates that Kemp and legislative leaders have promised. The plan would again give refunds of up to $250 to single filers, up to $375 to single adults who head a household with dependents and up to $500 to married couples filing jointly.

Kemp proposed boosting overall spending by $4.4 billion in state funds in the remainder of the budget year, with $1.7 billion coming from increased revenue. The remaining $2.7 billion would come from Georgias $16 billion in surplus and reserves.

Georgia would spend $40.6 billion in state funds, up from the $36.1 billion passed last spring. The state will spend billions more from federal aid and other sources.

Because lawmakers cant spend above the amount that Kemp proposes, they have to cut other areas to boost spending on their own priorities.

For example, Kemp asked for four new modular prisons. The House offered two, while the Senate proposes three, allowing each body to shift some spending elsewhere. Kemp proposed $100 million to pay off existing debt, while the House zeroed out that spending and the Senate proposes $60 million.

Photo: Andy Brown takes a break from cutting up a tree that destroyed his SUV when it fell during Hurricane Helene in Augusta, Georgia, in October. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins, File)

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Legislation Hurricane Georgia
A Seattle tunnel subcontractor will pay more than $370,000 in back wages after underpaying workers on the project.

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries determined that Glacier Northwest Inc. failed to meet prevailing wage requirements, paying workers at least $18 per hour less than required by law.

The L&I found that 46 employees, who operated heavy machinery such as cranes, dump trucks, and excavators, were paid $27.69 to $31.34 per hour instead of the required $49.48 per hour. The company must compensate affected workers, some of whom were owed more than $30,000, by July 31.

Glacier Northwest contracted for roughly $28 million to transport 2.2 million tons of dirt excavated by the tunnel-boring machine Bertha between 2012 and 2017.

A 2018 compliant from the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 302 led L&1 to issue a violation notice, sparking years of litigation. The state Court of Appeals ultimately upheld the determination that the work fell under prevailing wage laws.

L&I and Glacier Northwest reached a legally binding resolution on Dec. 30, 2024.
Among the ruins of destroyed buildings in Gazas Rafah, nearly 5,000 Palestinians gathered on the first day of Ramadan to break their fast together on Saturday.

"Today we draw joy on people's faces here in this destruction and under this rubble and debris," said Walid Abdel Wahab, one of the organizers of the group Iftar event.
For more than half a century, the midlife crisis has been a feature of western society.

Fast cars, impulsive decisions, and peak misery between the age of 40 and 50. But all that is changing, according to experts.

In a new paper commissioned by the United Nations, the leading academics Jean Twenge and David Blanchflower warn that a burgeoning youth mental health crisis in six English-speaking countries worldwide is upending the traditional pattern of happiness across our lifetimes.

Whereas happiness was once considered to follow a U-shape  with a relatively carefree youth, a tougher middle age and a more comfortable later life  the experts in wellbeing say our satisfaction now rises steadily with age instead.

The U-shape in wellbeing by age that used to exist in these countries is now gone, replaced by a crisis in wellbeing among the young, according to the paper published by the US National Bureau of Economic Research.

Analysing responses to surveys in the United States, Britain, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, the study found that life satisfaction and happiness had fallen among young people over the past decade, and particularly among young women.

It highlighted the rise of smartphones and social media, suggesting the trend coincided with the growth of internet usage, with the impact on happiness visible in surveys across the six countries and in several other nations worldwide.

'The young have become isolated'

This may end up being a lost generation, said Mr Blanchflower, a former Bank of England policymaker.

He said there had been a sharp drop in wellbeing in the US and Britain in particular, and pointed to the growth of social media, cyberbullying, and body shaming online.

The young have become isolated. Its also not so much that people are sitting there on the phone, its what theyre not doing. Theyre not going out as much; playing with their friends, interacting with others, or having as much sex," Mr Blanchflower said.

I dont think there is any doubt you have an absolute global crisis. Young people are in deep disarray and trouble. And the question is what do we do about it? And we dont know'

A leading British labour market economist now at the prestigious US Dartmouth College, Mr Blanchflower had written a paper in 2020 looking across almost 150 advanced and developing countries and found the same U shape in happiness applied everywhere.

However, he now says he missed the collapse in youth wellbeing from about 2013 in survey data, before starting to work with Ms Twenge, who is a leading expert on the subject.

I looked and I thought, Oh shit, shes right. What had happened is a really big deal. It wasnt covid, it had started before that, but that extended it after 2020.

Other studies have drawn links between the youth mental health crisis and intergenerational inequality , unregulated social media, insecure employment and the climate crisis. Young people are also increasingly like to be outside the jobs market with mental health conditions.

Mr Blanchflower said the collapse in youth wellbeing could have vast social and economic consequences.

The economics of this are a really big deal. Potentially this relates to the kids withdrawing from school; then they go out of the labour force. Presumably it will affect your performance at school, it might well impact global productivity, he added.

He said the UN had commissioned further research to identify whether the phenomenon could be found elsewhere around the world.

The UN sees this as a huge global crisis, he added.

We always thought that as life becomes more realistic, happiness declines because of pressures, then you realise life isnt so bad. Were having to rethink that entire thought.

The Guardian
Europes most senior human rights official has said there is evidence of asylum seekers being forcibly expelled at EU borders, as he urged mainstream politicians not to concede to populists on migration.

The commissioner for human rights at the Council of Europe, Irish human rights lawyer Michael OFlaherty, said he was concerned about the treatment of asylum seekers at the EUs external borders in Poland and Greece, as he warned against a securitisation response that goes too far.

Mr OFlaherty testified last month before the European court of human rights grand chamber in cases brought by asylum seekers against Poland and Latvia.

A group of 32 Afghan nationals, who say they fled their country after the Taliban returned to power, say they were forced back to Belarus by Polish border guards in 2021, giving them no chance to claim asylum. In the second case, 26 Iraqi nationals of Kurdish origin say they were pushed back to Belarus by Latvian authorities in the same year.

Both groups say they were stranded in a forested no mans land between the Belarusian and EU frontiers for several weeks.

Poland and Latvia  as well as Lithuania, Estonia and Finland  have been grappling with a surge in irregular border crossings since 2020, orchestrated by the Belarusian autocrat Alexander Lukashenko, who is seeking to destabilise EU countries.

Mr OFlaherty described the actions of Belarus as deplorable and unacceptable, but the securitisation response by the neighbouring countries goes too far.

The willingness to shut down any possibility of asylum is a violation of law, the willingness to return people across a border at risk of persecution is a violation of international law. And its not necessary, because the numbers that are being intercepted at the fences are modest.

About 17,000 people made an irregular crossing over the EUs eastern land border (which includes Ukraine) in 2024, the border agency Frontex reported.

Polish lawmakers are discussing plans to temporarily suspend the right to asylum, while the countrys prime minister Donald Tusk has described migration as a question of the survival of our western civilisation.

Mr OFlaherty told the ECHRs great chamber that the frame of hybrid warfare and weaponisation of migrants  language frequently invoked by EU leaders  gave the impression that people crossing the border should somehow be equated to the outrageous actions of Belarus.

Pushbacks at Polish border

Asked about alleged pushbacks at the Polish border, the lawyer said he was not in a position to describe a universal practice, but was confident that there have been sufficient incidents to be a cause of great concern.

He has also concluded there is compelling evidence of summary returns across Greeces land border with Turkey and from the islands. On a visit to Greece earlier this month, he met officials to discuss the Adriana shipwreck of June 2023, when more than 700 people drowned after a crowded boat carrying people from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Egypt sank in the Peloponnese.

Human rights NGOs that investigated the disaster accused Greek authorities of failing to mobilise appropriate resources for a rescue and ignoring offers of assistance from the EU border agency Frontex. Mr O'Flaherty, who began his career at the UN in Bosnia-Herzegovina in 1993, said it was the most challenging time for the protection of human rights he has seen in his working life.

While there had always been deeply disturbing levels of human rights violation and abuse, he said, the last decade had seen a repudiation of human rights by some leaders and regimes. And since 2024, centrist politicians were also willing to suspend or ignore human rights obligations, particularly concerning asylum rights, he said.

Centrist politicians are saying things that would have been unacceptable a very short time ago, and that worries me, because if I can mangle a quotation from the Irish poet William Butler Yeats , when the centre cannot hold, things fall apart.

Moderate political leaders across Europe needed to stand up for human rights" and not concede own goals to the populists or instrumentalising neighbouring states he said, referring to migration.

The Guardian
The four-year sentence handed down to a student who punched, struck, kicked and stamped on another man 250 times in a 20-minute attack in the centre of Cork City was appealed on Monday by the DPP for undue leniency.

Judge Jonathan Dunphy imposed on 22-year-old Darragh McLoughlin of 23 Richmond Hill, Cork, a sentence of six-and-a-half years imprisonment with the last two-and-a-half years suspended. The young man is serving that in the low security prison at Shelton Abbey.

Darragh McLoughlin admitted assault causing serious harm to a man at Paul Street, Cork, on October 18, 2022, as well as robbing his iPhone 7  the whole incident starting some distance away at 1.15am on that date outside the Secret Garden nightclub at Reardens, followed by a chase through the streets and the prolonged assault on Paul Street.

At the Court of Criminal Appeal sitting in Cork on Monday, barrister Imelda Kelly said the DPP was appealing the net sentence of four years on the basis of undue leniency because of what she described as a multiplicity of aggravating factors, including the fact that it was persistent, prolonged, consisted of in excess of over 250 blows, comprising punches, kicks and stamps, the ferocity of the attack, the robbery of the victims phone and the use of it to video the ongoing attack for 77 seconds, involving 14 stamps and kicks to the head.

Other aggravating factors include the use of demeaning language, instructions to the victim to remove the only defence he had left (his arm in front of his face), the callous removal of the arm to give 14 stamps/kicks to the injured party, the fact that he left for three or four minutes and then returned.

There is the removal of the outer trousers to the ankles and the shoes, and the dragging of the victim on the ground, as further aggravating factors.

'Animalistic'

Dean Kelly senior counsel for the accused said he had to address the seriousness of the assault not least in light of the visceral quality of it as depicted on CCTV shown in court.

Mr McLoughlin describes his own behaviour as animalistic, shameful and appalling. His reaction throughout the criminal justice process was one of abject shame, Mr Kelly said.

However, he said the DPP is left shaking her fist at a sentence just being too low but he said that the headline sentence of 10 years was appropriate, reduced to six-and-a-half years because of a signed plea of guilty and with the last two-and-a-half years suspended because of mitigating factors in relation to the defendant himself.

He said the 22-year-old was ashamed, had apologised, had mental health difficulties, and that there was "some background" between the parties which the defendant said was normal peer group rivalry and no more than that.

Mr Kelly said: He was not of a pathological disposition wanting to inflict violence on somebody  anybody  that night. He said the suspended two-and-a-half years would undoubtedly be activated in full if he became involved in anything resembling drunken behaviour after his release from prison.

The three judges of the appeal court, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, Ms Justice Tara Burns and Mr Justice Michael MacGrath, reserved their decision on the appeal to a date that has not been set and it will be delivered when the court is sitting in Dublin.

The victim suffered multiple fractures of the right eye socket, fractures of nasal bones and was left with double vision and what was described as an ongoing deformity.

During a 77-second video-recording made by the assailant with the victims phone, the man on the ground with a bloody face is heard groaning and a voice is heard saying: Look at you  youre an embarrassment.

Victim impact statement

In his victim impact statement, read by Detective Garda Joe Crowley, he said it was undoubtedly the worst day of his life and he was still trying to fill in the gaps in his memory of what happened. He still has nightmares and flashbacks.

He found it extremely frightening to see the condition of his face in hospital  I still dont fully recognise myself. He said that it affected him mentally and physically from waking up each morning until he goes to sleep at night and that it would affect him every day of his life. He said it had also deeply affected his family.

It was submitted by the defence that the accused had been on anti-depressant medication that night following a suicide attempt days earlier and that unfortunately he combined alcohol with medication. He brought 10,000 compensation to Cork Circuit Criminal Court for the injured party at the time of his original sentencing.
On January 24, Ireland was hit by the record-breaking Storm Eowyn, at its peak leaving 768,000 homes, farms, and businesses without power, and 130,000 without water.

The damage was so severe and widespread that the ESB had to call in almost 700 crew members, coming from Britain, Austria, France, Germany, Finland, Norway, and Northern Ireland.

"We have never had to call in that kind of assistance before," said regional manager at ESB Networks Siobhan Wynne.

The recovery efforts meant the ESB had to replace over 3,700 electricity poles, 700km of conductor wire, and 800 electricity transmitters.

Uisce Eireann, which uses electricity to pump water, was greatly affected by the power outages and is set to buy 100 of its own generators to avoid such a pitfall in future storms.

But by February 8, 16 days after the storm, there were still 3,500 Irish homes without access to electrical power.

The question now being posed is: "Can Irish communities, especially rural ones, become more self-sufficient?"

We speak to two such communities in Cork and Leitrim who are doing exactly that and look at two villages in the Netherlands and Germany who achieved self-sufficiency from the grid.

This 'forgotten' Leitrim village buys its own generator

In modern-day Ireland, what does it feel like to be totally without water and electricity for 13 days straight? Especially when you are in the depths of winter and there are newborn babies to feed and elderly people who need to keep warm?

"I can say we felt we were on our own. There wasn't someone coming to us saying: 'Here's a plan'. We had to highlight who was needing help in our locality, there was no one coming to us," says Matt Conlon, of Killargue Community Development Association, in Leitrim.

Leitrim was one of the worst hit places by Storm Eowyn, but not only that, the lack of State-level response left many in the community feeling totally forgotten.

"After Eowyn, the hangover for us is that Leitrim is the forgotten county. The next storm will come and the same thing will happen again. The feeling is Leitrim is only here for the conifer trees," says Matt, who acts as the vice treasurer of the Killargue Community Development Association.

The group is run by the community for the community and has its own centre in a former church, however, it too was without power for a week so was unable to provide assistance to the community.

Things were so bad in the area that Matt and his wife took to driving around the area to see who exactly was without power and who was most vulnerable.

"Some of our community didn't have water and we got access to water packs (12 litres of water) for them, but that had to be used for everything from drinking water to flushing toilets

"We relied on word of mouth to see who needed help. There was no government level plan asking: 'Who needs assistance?'" explains Matt.

When the local county council did provide care packs  which included a sleeping bag, a light, a carbonated drink, reading material, and a hat and gloves in some  the locals in Killargue used their power-less community centre as a distribution hub.

When they had no water, they had to reach out to a hub in nearby Dromahair for supplies for their own locality.

A fallen tree in Duckett's Grove as a result of Storm Eowyn. Picture: michaelorourkephotography.ie

As a result of the vacuum in immediate State-led support, this community is now taking things directly into their own hands.

Top of their priority list is a generator for the community centre, which they have already priced at 10,000 to 12,000, and they have already applied for not one but two grants for. The grant applications are not with a State body, they have applied to the National Lottery and a private windmill company that supplies energy locally.

The community in Killargue never wants to find themselves in this position again, and want to be able to use their community centre as a hub for heat and water for the next storm.

On Monday, February 24, exactly one month on from Storm Eowyn, a monster meeting was held in the Killargue community centre, attended by local councillors and some TDs.

Forestry is a big issue in Leitrim due to the density of manmade for-profit forests there and the height of some of these trees, which wipe out metres of electrical lines when a storm hits.

"The reason we were out for so long is that 300-400m of electrical wires, like an entire section between poles, were wiped out by fallen trees. So the ESB then needed to get forestry equipment in, multiple poles and then to restring.

I can't fault the ESB, they were excellent, their response was fantastic

Between organising public meetings and hopefully accessing funds for a public generator, Matt hopes these actions show their community that "there are people here to help and support them, if we work together as a group".

"We can't let it sit, we can't live with this, especially when we live in 2025. Water and electricity is not something we should be cutting off from anybody," says Matt.

See: Killargue World Community Group on Facebook

Midleton knew there was a group that would rally together

After Storm Frank in late December 2015 and Storm Babet in October 2023, the people of flood-hit Midleton are doing it for themselves.

While a flood relief scheme has been  and continues to be  worked on for the town and surrounding areas, it was the weather bombs from Babet that inspired a 20-strong group of volunteers to take the towns safety into their own hands.

Actions include the successful lobbying of TDs and ministers, daily monitoring of water levels in the Dungourney and Owenacurra rivers, the distribution of water leak detection kits, clinics to help locals fill out forms for State support schemes and, in the future, the development of a local support system to help people erect their own flood barriers in times of weather warnings.

All of these actions have been self-funded and organised by the members of Midleton and East Cork Flood Protection Group.

Having experienced devastating floods at Christmas 2015, with many homes affected, it was Storm Babet that spurred this group into serious action eight years later.

What makes Midleton complicated are the two rivers, says Caroline Leahy from the group. The tide affects the Dungourney and the heavy rain affects the Owenacurra. There is a history of some estates having been flooded from ground water from the rain.

Caroline explains how the community was told that Babet was a once-in-a-300-year event, this weather bomb or lashing of rain in a short period of time.

However, she says there had been quite a wet number of weeks leading up to Babet  meaning the banks of the river were already heavily saturated and, by the time Babets rain arrived, the river couldnt cope.

In the space of 15 minutes, her own home was three feet under water. When the water went down, there was a couple of centimetres of silt from the river covering the downstairs of her home. Approximately 400 properties were affected in the surrounding area.

The group met for the first time in November 2023, because there hadnt been anything done, and met again in January 2024 as a sort of therapeutic group.

You would have people crying at every meeting

The group then started thinking about what could be done, which led to petitions being set up in local shops, 15,000 signatures being gathered, and a community galvanising into self-help style action.

That helped people because they knew there was a group that would rally together, standing up for them I guess. We presented it to the Dail, tried to speak to as many TDs as possible, and gave statements on the trauma and impact of it, says Caroline.

The trauma relates to what will happen next time, and how quickly, due to the 15-minute flooding window in Babet.

When there is any rain, or a weather warning, the question on many peoples minds is: Are we safe here or do we need to act?

One way they have found to navigate this worry is by measuring the levels of water in the rivers, both from in-person monitoring and by reading data online that comes from gauges in the rivers.

One river gauge has been there for a long time, so there is a lot of historical data about how the river behaves that we can use and there are other newer ones.

On a wet day, where there is not a warning, you can find your river gauge on this online map and youre able to see the grass and where the river is peaking.

On a weather warning day, it updates every 15 minutes, so we can now compare that with historical data and know whether another Babet is coming, Caroline says.

Mona Stromsoe and Caroline Leahy, founder and administrator of the community group Midleton East Cork Flood & Protect, in Babys Walk, Midleton, with the self-funded water leak detection kits. Picture: Chani Anderson

They now share all of this information on their public Facebook group.

To complement this river gauge monitoring, one member watches the precipitation forecast.

If there was 40mm of rain on Sunday and the river can take 40mm or it may overtop, we then know: Right, the river can hold x metres of height, she adds.

Other actions the group has taken include engaging an engineer and coming up with a list of possible interim measures should there be another Babet. When the local council formed the Midleton Flood Committee in January 2024, the group successfully lobbied to get two seats at that table.

More recently, actions have included a clinic at the local GAA hall. The Government announced a funding scheme for individual property protection in October 2024, meaning they would fund flood barriers at the doors of qualifying peoples homes.

People had a month to apply. The clinic in the GAA hall was to make sure anyone who qualified applied correctly and on time.

The group also hosted a coffee morning in Wallis Bar, where people were talked through various tips and tricks needed in the event of another Babet.

These included following the river gauge, having a flood bag at the ready  including vital medication  and a balloon to place in a toilet to stop flooding. They also bought dozens of water leak detector kits for the community.

You put them on the inside of your front door and back door, and they work like a smoke alarm if there is water at a certain height inside your property, says Caroline.

You wouldnt sleep very well after this happening. We would wake in the middle of the night to check the gauge during a rain warning

So what is next?

The local council has carried out some of the interim measures the group asked for and the flood barriers are on their way, they are told. However, we have concerns about people not being able to install these barriers as they are very heavy, says Caroline.

How they work is by two permanent fixed rails at an external door and then, when there is a weather warning, you slot long aluminium panels into the rails with a nut and bolt.

The group is concerned about an elderly person, or if someone is pregnant, or has a disability, or a person living alone  as, a lot of the time, they will need two people to install. So we are working on a plan for a community support system, she adds.

One of the great things that came out of Babet was the community response, corporate donations for cleaning, weeks of food donations at our doors  not from the State, that was all volunteers and donations from local businesses, the scouts, and school kids doing cleaning. We want to harness that again if we do need to get barriers up for people so there isnt another Babet. One of the other things we would like to do is to try to get in front of the minister for social protection to explain the pitfalls of the humanitarian scheme, she adds.

See: Midleton and East Cork Flood Protection Group on Facebook.

Earth house initiative shows that it takes a village

Built in 2015, the community of Aardehuizen in Olst, the Netherlands, is made up of 23 interconnected homes.

Known as Aardehuizen [Earth houses], these homes are dome shaped and feature lots of glass panelling  as each property is south-facing for temperature-control purposes.

There are solar panels on the roofs, and they also have solar collector plates and electric boilers in the houses to meet energy demands.

Instead of these houses all working as separate units, the village works as a microgrid, whereby power is distributed across the 23 homes.

Critically, their grid is decentralised. It allows them to be off-grid, and it means they still have power during outages or public utility failures.

A recent estimation showed that Aardehuizen can produce 32% of the total energy it uses, but it has potential to supply 90% of its own needs.

The German settlement of Feldheim, meanwhile, is totally self-sufficient.

One of the wind turbines powering the grid in the German village of Feldheim, which is self-sufficient in electricity production through turbines and heating through a biogas plant. Picture: Craig Stennett/Getty

With 130 inhabitants, this village  around 90 minutes to the south of Berlin  has been energy independent for more than a decade.

In the mid-1990s, a number of wind turbines were erected to provide electricity to Feldheim.

There are now 55 silent wind turbines situated on the nearby hills and a local grid has since been built, with locals installing solar panels and battery storage systems.

The village receives thousands of visitors every year to see this community in action.

Local mayor Michael Knape said having locals as key stakeholders was key to the projects success.

Leitrim resident Mary Mulvey shares her storm survival plan

Mary Mulvey works in sustainability, drives an electric vehicle, and lives in a 100-year-old house in Leitrim  so when the country began talking about the incoming Storm Eowyn in January the climate consultant felt prepared.

Only this storm was different.

Living close to the Atlantic Ocean, youre used to storms and we can be without electricity for usually two or three days, but in the last few years its been four or five days, says Mary, pictured right.

However, Leitrim was one of the places worst hit by Storm Eowyn, leaving many without power or water for two weeks or more.

I was working away in Galway and I knew the storm was coming; we had everything battened down but my biggest concern was my polytunnel, says Mary.

Im 19 years in the house, but Ive had the polytunnel since 2021 and Im now fairly self-sufficient food wise

As a Leitrim resident, she is now so accustomed to life-interrupting storms that she relies on Carlow Weather and several maritime apps to keep her accurately informed, as well as several of her own storm kit items.

For Storm Eowyn, Mary had a Kelly kettle to hand (used by fishermen on Lough Corrib and people out working on the bog) as it can boil water with just a few lit twigs as a heat source. Mary also had a camping stove and lots of firewood.

Used to storms, she has a battery-powered radio in her home, so Mary made sure to have lots of rechargeable batteries for that and her flash lights.

Storms are a regular occurrence for us so youd have a big box of candles too, but when youre on day four or five, you get through them, says Mary of the length of time she was without power during Storm Eowyn.

Aside from the candles, Mary ended up going through four canisters of gas for her camping stoves due to the length of the electricity outage in Leitrim.

Mary Mulvey at her home in Co Leitrim beside her polytunnel she saved from the storm. Picture: Lorriane Teevan

She also works remotely and had an offer of a bed in her cousins house, but the water supply went in that house.

Uisce Eireann needs electricity to pump the water [aside from short outages where gravity can feed flow], says Mary. So losing electricity and water was a double whammy for people.

According to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Uisce Eireann is the largest consumer of energy in the State and depends heavily on electricity to maintain service.

However, for Mary, it was not the electrical outage nor the resultant water outage that was the hardest thing for her to contend with, it was the breakdown in communication networks.

No electricity for five days was hard but to not have a phone, no mobile coverage for the best part of five days, was actually harder and I had to drive into Sligo to get a few messages out, into the McDonalds in Sligo town, says Mary.

McDonalds in Sligo town became a hub for the people of Leitrim.

There were people getting takeaway food and trying to use the internet there, says Mary. In our local community the hairdresser let us come in and use phones and get hot water. A few homes that had power made hot dinners.

It was very, very much self-help; by the time the hubs had been set up by the county council, the local community had already kicked in

Mary eventually had to leave Leitrim and go to family in Meath in order to work.

She is also aware of families with young babies who had to move home to their parents houses in different parts of the country as they were unable to prepare food for the infants.

Mary knows this is not the last time her community will come under pressure due to climate change, and for the next storm there will be a few tweaks made in her storm plan.

I think I was prepared, she says. I saved the polytunnel but it did come under pressure and Ill get brass screws, not nails, next time. Ill get more camping gas, as I went through so much, and Ive already bought more matches and candles. Because I work in climate change, I thought: Oh this is what theyre talking about. 
Back in November, the co-leader of the German Greens Franziska Brantner provided an explanation of why knitting has been so popular among delegates of their party conferences ever since the foundation of the party more than 40 years ago: it was all part of preparing for a winter election campaign.

That campaign is over, but in last Sundays election a considerable share of German voters left the traditional parties out in the cold. This happens at a time when the mood in Germany is pessimistic anyway.

The economy has shrunk for two consecutive years, energy costs are high, and structurally important sectors like the automobile industry face sluggish demand. After long periods of internal conflict, the unpopular traffic light coalition consisting of Social Democrats, Liberals and Greens collapsed on the day after Donald Trump won the US presidential election.

In the aftermath, the country has experienced the most polarized election campaign in a long time. Large segments of the population have been in favour of reducing immigration levels for some time.

After taking over the leadership of the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) in early 2022, Friedrich Merz has steered the party towards the right both on economic and socio-cultural questions. Photo: Sven Hoppe/dpa via AP

The populist radical right Alternative for Germany (AfD) benefits from that sentiment, and opinion polls have been indicating a further upward trend for the party since last summer.

At the same time, many Germans are concerned about social cohesion, tolerance, and the threat to democracy posed by the far-right party. The car attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg and the stabbing in Aschaffenburg in January (with a two-year-old child among the two fatalities), both committed by perpetrators with a migration background, reinforced those deep divides.

After taking over the leadership of the Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) in early 2022, Friedrich Merz had steered the party towards the right both on economic and socio-cultural questions. Following the stabbing attack, the Christian Democrats pushed for stricter immigration policies in parliament, tabling initially a (non-binding) resolution, which passed only with the votes from the AfD.

A similar legislative bill did not find majority support, but the parliamentary proceedings exacerbated the conflict between parties and voters in favour of restrictions on immigration and those who interpreted the Christian Democrats' decision as a collaboration with the far right.

This move by the CDU/CSU sparked criticism even from actors that typically do not intervene into day-to-day politics: former chancellor (and party colleague) Angela Merkel and both the Catholic and the Protestant church of Germany. Subsequent street protests against the far right and its accommodation attracted large crowds across many different cities of the country.

Christian Democrats

Has the rightward shift worked for the Christian Democrats?

While the party topped the poll and Merz will likely be the next chancellor of Germany, the result of 28.6% of the vote is far from overwhelming. Along with the Social Democrats (SPD), the CDU/CSU is traditionally considered one of the two Volksparteien that used to attract a large share of voters from a broad variety of social backgrounds.

From that point of view, the over-time electoral decline of what used to be the two major parties resembles developments in Ireland.

Merzs personal ratings also show considerable scope for improvement. While popular within his own party, where many welcomed his double rightward shift after the long centrist spell under Merkel, supporters of other parties are less enthusiastic. The skepticism is more pronounced among women, particularly younger women.

In addition, Merz still has to demonstrate that he is up to the top job, since he has oddly enough never served in a ministerial role at the national or state level before.

Social Democrats

Having said that, the SPD is certainly in a more difficult position. Olaf Scholz has led a government with low satisfaction ratings for most of its duration.

The three-party coalition of SPD, Liberals and Greens could easily agree on a number of reforms in the socio-cultural realm (such as simplifying the requirements for obtaining German citizenship and legalizing cannabis). However, it was clear from the beginning that the three parties views on economic policy, especially the trade-off between public spending and taxes, would be hard to bridge.

This problem was subsequently exacerbated by the economic consequences of the Ukraine war and a court ruling that further restricted the scope of fiscal manoeuvres compliant with the so-called debt brake that is part of Germanys constitution.

The perception of disunity and infighting also raised questions about Scholz leadership qualities. To many, the image of the calm and prudent decision-maker became that of a waverer who stood by watching things getting out of control.

However, for the SPD there are also issues that go beyond the question of government performance. Like other Social Democratic parties in Europe, it has lost most of the working class to the far right and competes with other left-leaning parties for the votes of professionals.

Free Democrats

Looking at the smaller parties, two of them are clear losers. This is particularly the case for the Free Democrats (FDP), who promote liberal positions both on economic and socio-cultural matters.

As in 2009, by staying short of the 5% threshold, the party will transition straight from being a government member to being an extra-parliamentary party.

It is plausible to assume that a key factor contributing to this defeat was its role in bringing down the three-party coalition  Scholz eventually dismissed the Minister of Finance and party leader Christian Lindner, which led the FDP to leave the government.

Clashes within the cabinet frequently occurred between the FDP and the Greens. Tensions between pro-business interests favouring a leaner State and pro-environmental interests more strongly supporting regulatory frameworks are of course also familiar from an Irish context.

The Greens

The Greens obtained 11.6% of the vote, down 3.1 percentage points compared to four years ago. From among the three parties, they got away best from participating in government.

However, the requirement for centrist compromises, including in the area of immigration, in the previous term, plus the openness towards forming a government coalition with the CDU/CSU in the new term, made them lose votes to left-wing competitors. A continuing role in government is now very unlikely.

CDU/CSU and Greens together do not control a majority of seats, and parts of the Christian Democrats, especially the more strongly conservative Bavarian CSU, oppose such a coalition anyway. As we have also observed in the Irish context, there appear to be more compatible and convenient partners for the centre-right than the Greens.

Alternative for Germany

Looking for the clear winners of this election, these can be found at the extremes of the political spectrum. On the right end, the AfD doubled its vote share and reached 20.8%, with a programme promoting anti-immigration, socio-culturally conservative and economically liberal to libertarian views.

The spectrum of views found in the party also stretches to the extreme right, and it is monitored by intelligence services for that reason. As in previous elections, there is a pronounced difference in AfD support between West (17.9%) and East Germany (34.5%). Interestingly, many citizens now perceive the AfD also as the party that best represents East German interests.

If a CDU/CSU-SPD coalition forms, the AfD will be the largest opposition party in the new Bundestag. This is not a first (it already was in this position after the 2017 election), but the considerably larger seat share now implies more State funding and more extensive speaking rights (a much-valued good for the opposition, as we know).

The other parties expressed commitment to maintain the so-called firewall to cordon off the AfD. That means there is no hope of access to government for the party, at least in the short run. At the same time, any new government can expect relentless criticism from the far right and needs to think about new ways of countering and containing this opposition.

The Left

The biggest surprise of this election is the performance of The Left, with 8.8% of the national vote. For a long time, the economically and socio-culturally left-wing party had been characterized by internal divisions.

Its charismatic former parliamentary group co-leader eventually formed her own party, Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW), seeking to combine pro-redistribution positions with immigration-skeptic, socio-culturally conservative and anti-Green views.

Squeezed by both the AfD and the new competitor BSW, which performed strongly in three 2024 East German state-level elections and even entered two of the resulting governments, The Left struggled for its survival.

Since the beginning of 2025, though, it has experienced a strong surge in the polls. Part of the explanation is that its pro-immigration position became a unique feature that attracted voters from other parties, as even the Greens had become somewhat more immigration-skeptic.

The Left also ran an intensive campaign, both knocking doors offline and using social media to reach out to other groups.

BSW

Ironically, BSW managed to secure only 4.97% of the vote in the Bundestag election and very narrowly missed the 5% threshold.

Not only did it fail to gain representation in the new parliament, this also facilitates a two-party coalition of CDU/CSU and SPD, which can command a majority of seats with a combined 45% of the votes.

Younger voters

Exit polls revealed that patterns of voting behaviour are quite different among younger cohorts, particularly as it relates to centrist parties and those at the far ends of the political spectrum.

Among 18- to 24-year-olds, the centrist parties CDU/CSU and SPD attracted only 13% and 12% of the vote, respectively. While the AfD vote in the youngest segment of the electorate is the same as overall with 21%, it is noteworthy that the party has considerably improved its performance in this group compared with the election four years ago (+14 percentage points). Most notably, The Left is very strong in this age group, with 25% in this group.

This raises the question of why so many young people are attracted to the far ends of the spectrum.

Social media is widely believed to play a big role here. Both AfD and The Left are known to be very active in these channels, and sure young people spend a lot of time on Instagram, TikTok and the likes. This explanation is of course plausible, but we also need to be careful with drawing premature conclusions.

Far-right supporters chant slogans at a protest in Berlin a day before the German elections last month. Photo: AP/Ebrahim Noroozi

First, those who use social media for political information do not necessarily use this channel only. Second, the content and style of the message matter as well. While Sahra Wagenknecht is also very prominent on social media, BSWs vote share in the group of youngest voters is more or less the same as overall. BSWs self-declared anti-woke positions on socio-cultural questions and immigration likely resonate less well among younger voters.

In addition, The Lefts female frontrunner candidate Heidi Reichinnek, who is credited for much of the partys online success, has an occupational background in youth support services, which may explain why she is particularly skilled in connecting to younger people.

Third, the popularity of specific parties among the younger generation may well be of a transitional nature. In the 2021 election, it was the FDP and the Greens that stood out in terms of their popularity with the youth.

We know that party identification, as inferred from surveys asking people whether they feel close to a particular party, is less common among younger than older generations (Germany: 40% v 52%, Ireland: 20% v 41%; figures for 18- to 30-year-olds).

Gender

Even more remarkably, the youth vote in the Bundestag election was strongly gendered. The far-right AfD is more popular among 18- to 24-year-old men than women (27% v 15%; overall: 24% v 18% ), whereas The Left performs better among female (35%) than male (16%) voters in that group (overall: 11% v 7%).

At least to some extent, this reflects differences in policy views and attitudes. For example, young German women (18 to 30 years old) are more likely to support income redistribution than men (77% v 65%), and are less likely to agree with the statement that Obedience and respect for authority are the most important values children should learn (49% v 61%).

Dr Thomas Daubler: 'While there are some parallels that may explain the low appeal of centrist parties to younger cohorts in Germany and Ireland, the solutions for those parties may not be the same.'

Interestingly, such strong differences cannot be found for the same age group in Ireland. Both the support for redistribution (84% for women, 82% for men) and the importance attached to authority (50% agreement by women, 55% by men) are more similar among younger Irish people of different genders.

Hence, while there are some parallels that may explain the low appeal of centrist parties to younger cohorts in Germany and Ireland, the solutions for those parties may not be the same.
The Government is set to abolish Irelands triple lock system for sending troops abroad, with Tanaiste Simon Harris due to bring proposals to Cabinet on Tuesday.

Discussions on the major change in Irish foreign and defence policy have been ongoing for years, with the proposal first being floated by then taoiseach Micheal Martin in 2023.

But what exactly is the triple lock, and how will it change how Ireland sends its troops abroad?

What is the triple lock system?

This is a system of three steps that Ireland is required to carry out to send more than 12 Defence Forces troops abroad at one time.

This could be for a peacekeeping mission or sending army rangers abroad on an airlift mission to rescue Irish citizens.

These three steps include government approval for a mission to send Defence Forces troops abroad, typically done through a Cabinet decision.

The second step is for the Dail to rubberstamp this decision. This would be done through a vote in the Dail, with TDs likely to debate the matter.

The final step is the requirement for a mandate from the United Nations, either through a decision of the UN Security Council or a resolution of the UN General Assembly.

What is the Government changing?

The Government is proposing to remove the requirement for a UN mandate to send Irish troops abroad.

This would mean that, in future, sending Irish troops abroad would only require the approval of both the Cabinet and Dail before permission would be granted.

The Tanaiste has also proposed increasing the number of troops Ireland can send abroad without triggering the lock from 12 to 50.

Mr Harris said this is in line with military advice and would include all the personnel required on a given mission.

Why is the Government changing the triple lock policy?

The Government has argued that there is a need to remove the triple lock and replace it with a double lock due to the ability of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council to veto future peacekeeping missions.

The idea of the UN Security Council having a veto on where we deploy Irish troops in relation to peacekeeping is something that needs to be modified, Mr Harris said on Sunday.

We cannot have a situation where any one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, Russia, or anybody else can veto that decision. We need to be empowered to do that

What impact will it have on Irish peacekeeping?

Essentially, it would allow Ireland to become involved in peacekeeping missions that are not mandated specifically by the United Nations.

This would include allowing Irish peacekeepers take part in EU-led missions, with the Government insisting that this would only be permitted if they are consistent with both the UN Charter and international law.

Government sources have said that it will also allow for Ireland to deploy troops abroad rapidly, citing the evacuation of citizens from Kabul in 2021.

Why are TDs against the change to the triple lock?

There has been pushback to the change since it was proposed.

We are concerned that ending the triple lock would have an inherent impact on our military neutrality, Labour leader Ivana Bacik told the Dail last week.

It would open the door for members of our Defence Forces to participate in foreign conflicts that lack the protection of the blue beret and a United Nations mandate, and that would compromise our neutrality.

Sinn Feins Donnchadh O Laoghaire also said allowing Irish troops to be deployed to any international mission would be a significant risk to the policy of neutrality.

He said Ireland is not a major military power and should best exercise influence through neutrality.

Government sources have insisted that the change reinforces Irelands ability to pursue an independent foreign policy by removing the veto power of the Security Council.

Should there be future peace support operations, for example, in either Ukraine or Gaza, Ireland couldnt even consider participation unless it had a UN mandate  which, in both these cases, would be unlikely, one source said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has apologised to a freed Israeli hostage for taking so long to secure his release.

Eli Sharabi was released last month as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas.

According to a statement from Mr Netanyahus office, the Israeli leader told him: I am sorry that it took us so long. We fought hard to get you out.

Benjamin Netanyahu (Evelyn Hockstein/AP)

A gaunt looking Mr Sharabi was released after 16 months in captivity to discover that his wife and two teenage daughters had been killed in Hamass attack on October 7 2023.

Mr Sharabi, who has spoken of the tough conditions in captivity, is set to meet President Donald Trump in Washington on Tuesday.

Mr Netanyahu said the meeting is important and Mr Sharabi responded, according to the statement, that perhaps with joint efforts, we will bring this whole saga to an end.

Meanwhile, mourners in Israel attended the last of the funerals for eight of the hostages whose bodies were returned from Gaza during the first phase of the ceasefire.

Crowds lined the long route of the funeral procession for Itzhak Elgarat, who was 68 when he was abducted by Hamas militants from his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz.

The enemy who caused your death was not the one who abducted you but the one who abandoned you

Israel has said he was killed in captivity but the circumstances surrounding his death are not known. His brother Danny told mourners that in their last phone conversation, on October 7,2023, his brother had said to him: Danny, this is the end.

Unfortunately you were right, Danny Elgarat said in the eulogy for his brother. We fought with all our might to prove you wrong. We failed. We didnt do enough.

A prominent figure in the public struggle for the release of the hostages, Danny Elgarat railed against Mr Netanyahu for failing to bring back his brother alive.

The enemy who caused your death was not the one who abducted you but the one who abandoned you, he said.

You managed to survive the kidnapping, the kidnappers, and the injury for many months, and in the end, did not survive your own prime ministers torpedoing (of the hostage deal) and abandonment.
France and Britain are proposing a partial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine that would cover air, sea and energy infrastructure attacks but not include ground fighting, French president Emmanuel Macron and his foreign minister said.

The comments came amid a flurry of European diplomacy designed to shore up Western support for Ukraine following an acrimonious meeting between Ukraine's president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US president Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Friday.

"Such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce. And that's when real peace negotiations could start," French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Monday.

Under the Anglo-French proposal, European ground troops would only be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase, Mr Macron said in an interview published in Le Figaro late on Sunday.

"There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks," Le Figaro quoted Mr Macron as saying as he flew to London for a meeting of European leaders, convened by British prime minister Keir Starmer to advance efforts at drawing up a Ukraine peace plan.

"The question is how we use this time to try to obtain a truce, with negotiations that will take several weeks and then, once peace is signed, a (troop) deployment," Mr Macron said.

The French president did not elaborate on how air, sea and energy infrastructure could be monitored.

"In my eyes that can only be possible with Nato or at least Nato command and then Patriot systems, long-range missiles and aviation, which Ukraine does not have," said a European diplomat.

French resident Emmanuel Macron, British prime minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian resident Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during a European leaders' summit on the situation in Ukraine at Lancaster House, London. re

"And you have to negotiate with Russia so that it doesn't carry out the massive attacks."

The Kremlin, which has rejected the idea of Western troops being deployed to Ukraine, said on Monday the Oval Office clash between Mr Trump and Mr Zelenskyy showed how difficult it would be to settle on the conflict in Ukraine.

Mr Zelenskyy, asked if he was aware of the plan mentioned by Mr Macron, told reporters in London: "I'm aware of everything."

On Monday, however, British armed forces minister Luke Pollard declined to confirm the ideas aired by Mr Macron and Mr Barrot, saying: "That's not a plan that we currently recognise."

"Certainly there are a number of different options being discussed privately between the UK, France and our allies at the moment. It's probably not right for me at the moment to comment on each individual option as they occur," Pollard told the BBC.

Starmer said on Sunday that European leaders had agreed to draw up a Ukraine peace plan to present to the United States, without going into details.
A South African woman has gone on trial charged with kidnapping and selling her young daughter in a case that gained national attention.

Kelly Smith is charged alongside her partner and another man over the disappearance of her daughter Joshlin more than a year ago.

Joshlin, who was six-years-old when she disappeared, is still missing following a nationwide police hunt.

Smith  whose full name is Racquel Chantel Smith  was charged with kidnapping and human trafficking.

Prosecutors alleged she organised the abduction of her daughter in return for payment with the help of her partner Jacquin Appollis and friend Steveno van Rhyn.

All three defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges as the trial opened in a sports hall in the small coastal town of Saldanha Bay.

The trial was moved to the hall to give members of the community an opportunity to attend.

Smith won sympathy across South Africa in the early days of Joshlins disappearance and neighbours joined together to help police search for the child in sand dunes near the impoverished settlement of shacks and small houses where they lived.

Smith claimed she left Joshlin with Appollis on the day she went missing in February 2024 and had not seen her again.

The case took a shocking twist when police took Smith in for questioning and later arrested her.

Another woman who was arrested was not charged and is reportedly due to give evidence as a state witness.

Prosecutors said in the indictment that Smith had been planning to sell Joshlin and her two other children since August 2023. Only Joshlin went missing.

They also alleged that Smith and Joshlin were seen getting into a white vehicle with a bag of clothes the day the girl was reported missing.

The case has provoked anger in the community.

Crowds gathered outside the sports hall, chanting We want Joshlin back, according to local media reports.

Judge Nathan Erasmus said the three defendants could face life in prison if they are found guilty.
The rift between Washington and Kyiv over a potential ceasefire in the war with Russia grew larger on Monday as Donald Trump expressed new outrage at Volodymyr Zelenskyy for saying that the end of the war could be very, very far away.

In a post to social media on Monday, Trump posted a link to an Associated Press story outlining Zelenskyys comments and said: This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US, Trump continued.

Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia, he said. What are they thinking? The exchange followed a French proposal for a partial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine, as European efforts to bolster support for Kyiv accelerate in the face of uncertain US backing.

The French foreign minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, said on Monday: Such a truce  on air, sea and energy infrastructure  would allow us to determine whether Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith and gauge his attitude to real peace negotiations.

Zelenskyy had said that he believed a peace with Russia was far off in an interview in which he also expressed optimism about Ukraines partnership with the US, saying: I think our relationship (with the US) will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship. Those remarks followed a blow-up in the Oval Office where Trump accused Zelenskyy of gambling with a third world war and told the Ukrainian president to come back when he is ready for peace.

Zelenskyy, Trump, and Vance during the discussion.

Fox News on Monday reported that a minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States that Trump claimed would provide some security guarantees to Kyiv would not be signed until Zelenskyy goes in front of cameras and makes an explicit public apology for the way he behaved in the Oval Office with that meeting.

Keir Starmer and Frances Emmanuel Macron have sought to act as intermediaries between Zelenskyy and the White House as relations between Kyiv and the White House appear to be at the breaking point.

Donald Trumps remarks came as he planned to convene top White House officials on Monday to discuss next steps, which included reviewing the European proposal but also potentially considering a cutoff in aid to Ukraine, according to reports in the New York Times and other US media. Those set to join the briefing include the national security adviser, Michael Waltz, the secretary of state, Marco Rubio, and the secretary of defence, Pete Hegseth.

Waltz briefly took questions on Ukraine while walking towards the West Wing. He declined to say whether the US would accept the European proposal but welcomed the efforts by Macron and the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer. We welcome the Europeans taking a lead in European security, Waltz said. I mean thats been an underpinning. They have to invest in the capability to do that. Theyre certainly showing a will. Trump allies continued to pile pressure on Zelenskyy over the weekend, with several suggesting the Ukrainian president should consider resigning in order to provide a way forward for negotiations. Rubio and Waltz were considered to be the most hawkish of Trumps cabinet on Russia, but have fallen in line with his and JD Vances criticisms of Ukraine as tensions have escalated.

Speaking to Fox on Monday morning, Waltz did not say Zelenskyy should resign, but when asked whether Zelenskyy was fit to lead Ukraine said: What happened Friday really put that up in the air.

The Guardian
Monday, Mar 3rd, 2025 (9:39 am) - Score 2,080

Broadband network operator AllPoints Fibre (APFN) has today signed a new long-term strategic partnership with UK business ISP Daisy Communications. The deal will see Daisy both take on APFNs B2B customers and harness their new aquila wholesale platform to access and sell products via their national Fibre-to-the-Premises (FTTP) network.

Just to recap. Aquila now states that its available to 18 million+ UK homes and businesses, which is roughly in keeping with the respective network expansions of major partners at Openreach and CityFibre. In addition, this platform also includes APFNs own-built FTTP via the recent consolidation of their three alternative networks  Giganet, Swish Fibre and Jurassic Fibre.

However, the new deal with Daisy goes much further than that, not least because it will also see Daisy acquire APFNs B2B direct customer base, which was previously managed under the Giganet brand. As part of the migration, both APFN and Daisy have confirmed that all customers will maintain the same level of service at the same in-contract price point, said the announcement.

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Jarlath Finnegan, Group CEO of AllPoints Fibre Networks, said: The Daisy deal represents another big milestone for APFN. Daisy now has access to the largest full fibre wholesale offering in the UK which will benefit the loyal customers who have supported us to date. I want to thank them, and we look forward to supporting them via Daisy in the years ahead.

Dave McGinn, CEO of Daisy Communications, said: Were delighted to have signed a deal with AFPN to bring the UKs largest full fibre wholesale offering to our customers. Were also pleased to welcome several customers into Daisy as part of our deal and were looking forward to working alongside them to keep Britain working.

Customers impacted by the migration have already been informed, and the partnership goes live immediately.
Monday, Mar 3rd, 2025 (7:32 am) - Score 840

Customers of Vodafone UKs mobile and broadband services, specifically those that also use their internet anti-malware Secure Net service (included with their Pro II Broadband packages), may in the near future be able to benefit from quantum-safe cryptography after the operator collaborated with IBM on a new Proof of Concept (PoC) test.

At present, Quantum Computers are still very much in the early R&D stages of their development. But it is anticipated that, someday, future cryptographically relevant quantum computers could be used to break todays internet encryption techniques. While this risk may still be years away, cybercriminals are already using harvest now, decrypt later attacks to collect and store data for later decryption.

NOTE: Secure Net, is already used by millions of customers across the UK and other countries to keep online users and their families safe from Vodafone s all-in-one digital security add-on,, is already used by millions of customers across the UK and other countries to keep online users and their families safe from phishing , malware (viruses etc.), and identity thefts.

In response, IBMs cryptography researchers have already co-developed two algorithms, which were recently published as part of the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technologys (NIST) first three post-quantum cryptography standards.

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The new collaboration with Vodafone thus represents a demonstration, supported by Akamai Technologies, of how IBMs new Quantum Safe technology could be implemented into Vodafones existing Secure Net service. This would essentially add new post-quantum cryptography standards to the existing encryption methods, helping to protect users against future threats.

Luke Ibbetson, Head of R&D at Vodafone, said: We want our customers to enjoy the internet without worry, now and in the future. On the one hand quantum computing could have many societal benefits such as modelling new medicines and optimising advanced digital networks. But on the other hand, it could be used to undermine the cryptographic principles that the Internet relies on today. That is why Vodafone and IBM are working together with other partners to get ahead of the curve.

Lory Thorpe, IBMs Quantum Safe Industry Lead, added: As a pioneer in quantum-safe cryptography and solutions, IBM is proud to expand our collaboration with Vodafone to help protect its customers from anticipated quantum risks. Its crucial for organisations to implement4 post-quantum cryptography, and Vodafone has led by example as an early adopter of post-quantum security solutions.

The PoC is currently being expressed as a feasibility test and no indication is given for how long we might have to wait before this becomes a real feature that existing mobile and broadband customers can enjoy. But Vodafone clearly states that theyre looking to introduce new, attack-resistant cryptographic algorithms across its networks, as well as business and consumer products. So hopefully it wont be long.
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An N.C. House Select Committee is recommending that the General Assembly change a state law forcing districts to start school the Monday closest to Aug. 26 and end no later than the Friday clo


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Car Plows into Crowd in Germany, Resulting in One Fatality and Multiple Injuries  Authorities Report

A vehicle has crashed into a crowd in Mannheim, Germany, resulting in at least one fatality and multiple injuries, according to police reports, who also noted that one individual has been apprehended.

Police with firearms have cordoned off the inner city, where a damaged vehicle was observed with its front window shattered.

Since December, two ramming incidents in different cities have resulted in eight fatalities.

Last May, Mannheim was the site of a stabbing incident at an anti-Islam demonstration, which left one police officer dead and five others injured.

The incident took place near the citys iconic water tower.

We can now confirm that a vehicle was driven into a pedestrian zone, resulting in one death, police spokesman Stefan Wilhelm stated, noting that several individuals were hurt.

One suspect has been arrested, he added, while emphasizing that the investigation is ongoing.

Wilhelm advised local residents to steer clear of the inner city area due to the significant police activity.

Heavily armed officers secured the vicinity and police helicopters were observed overhead.

According to the Bild newspaper, two fatalities and 25 injuries have been reported from the incident, with images depicting ambulances near the citys historic water tower.

A correspondent from news channel NTV reported seeing at least one person covered with a tarp, along with childrens shoes scattered amidst the debris.

Authorities urged residents to refrain from entering the downtown area and to remain indoors as the neighborhood was largely cleared.

The Baden-Wuerttemberg state interior ministry issued a warning about a life-threatening situation via its disaster alert app.

The intensive care unit at Mannheims university hospital has declared a disaster alert status.

Several German cities have experienced violent incidents recently, including stabbings and car ramming attacks attributed to asylum seekers.

Last month, a man drove his car into a union demonstration in Munich, claiming the lives of a two-year-old girl and her mother.

In December, a car-ramming incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg resulted in six deaths and numerous injuries.

Mannheim itself was previously the scene of a stabbing attack at an anti-Islam rally last May, leading to one police officers death and injuring five additional individuals.

Authorities have remained vigilant amidst the peak of the traditional German carnival celebrations leading up to Lent.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser stated prior to the Mannheim incident that the festivities were being conducted with heightened security measures.

Thousands of revelers had participated in Mannheims carnival parade the day before.

Ms. Faeser canceled her attendance at the Rose Monday parade in Cologne to respond to the situation in Mannheim.

Security concerns were a significant topic in last months general election, which concluded with a victory for the center-right CDU/CSU party.
Haifa Stabbing Attack Leaves One Dead, According to Medics

A stabbing incident at a bus and train station in the Israeli city of Haifa resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries, according to medics, with police labeling it a terror attack.

A terrorist exited a bus, attacked several civilians with a knife, and was subsequently subdued by a security guard and a civilian present at the scene, the police stated.

The assailant was identified as a member of Israels Druze minority from the northern town of Shfaram, who had returned to Israel last week after spending several months abroad.

Attacks involving individuals from the Arabic-speaking Druze community are infrequent, as they are typically viewed as having strong loyalty to the Israeli state.

This attack occurred amid stalled negotiations between the two sides after the initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire concluded over the weekend.

Medical teams reported the death of a man in his 70s and are currently providing treatment to and evacuating four others who were injured, as confirmed by Israels Magen David Adom emergency service.

Among the injured are a man and a woman in their 30s, as well as a 15-year-old boy, all of whom are in serious condition.

Israeli police categorize incidents linked to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict as terror attacks.

Initially, the police had classified the incident as a shooting.

Haifa, the coastal city, is known for its diverse Jewish and Arab population.

Hamas labeled the attack a heroic operation, asserting it was in response to Israeli crimes against Palestinians.

This comes on the heels of reports that two Palestinians were killed in Israeli drone strikes in the central part of Rafah in southern Gaza, according to medics and Hamas media.
In the Wake of the Trump-Zelensky Conflict, Europe Must Consider Its Security Alternatives

The public confrontation between US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday will be remembered as one of the most calamitous political press events in recent history.

It appeared as a blatant ambush, and Mr. Zelensky took the bait, countering Mr. Vances claim that Ukraine now required diplomacy.

The body languageraised hands from Mr. Trump and Mr. Vancespoke volumes: they want no part in continuing to assist Ukraine in its fight against the war initiated by Russia.

Mr. Trump also made it known that he has no preferred side in the conflict.

This must have come as a shock to Ukraines president, who had previously been warmly received by former US president Joe Biden in the same setting.

In just over two weeks, Mr. Trump and his vice president have overturned the previous Biden administrations robust support for Ukraine and cast doubt on Americas longstanding commitment to Europe.

One can only speculate about Russian President Vladimir Putins reaction, now empowered by the Trump administrations warming ties with Kremlin officials.

The verbal clash on Friday also reveals the significant divide that has appeared between Europe and the US regarding methods to conclude the war in Ukraine.

In response to the extraordinary scene in the Oval Office, European leaders rallied in support of Mr. Zelensky, while Mr. Trump subsequently criticized the Ukrainian president on his Truth Social platform.

Later in London, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will convene over a dozen European leaders, including Mr. Zelensky, at a summit to deliberate on the future of European security and the situation in Ukraine.

This was intended to be an opportunity for Mr. Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron to brief their fellow leaders on their discussions with Mr. Trump in Washington earlier in the week.

Keir Starmer visited Donald Trump in the White House earlier this week.

However, Fridays confrontation at the White House will likely overshadow the agenda and redirect the conversation on how Europe and Ukraine can persuade the US to re-engage as a security guarantor in any peace deal with Russia.

Mr. Trump, who was born one year after World War II ended, seems to bear little of the transatlantic loyalties that informed the European policies of the 13 other American presidents since 1945.

Thats not to say this second Trump administration will completely abandon Europe.

Nearly 80 years following the conclusion of World War II, Americas military still operates more than 30 bases throughout Europe, from Britain to Bulgaria, housing over 60,000 personnel.

Nonetheless, the incoming US administrations abrupt rapprochement with Russiabeginning with the Trump-Putin phone call that blindsided both Europeans and Ukrainians, followed by initial discussions with senior Russian officials regarding the wars conclusionhas prompted European governments into action over the past fortnight.

Most European NATO members are now spending over 2% of GDP on defense, successfully meeting the target set by the alliance.

For years, many member countries, including France and Germany, had not met that target, relying instead on the US to uphold the alliance.

This second Trump administration has made it clear that it expects European nations to increase their defense spending and take the lead in maintaining peace in Ukraine.

Its just not fair or sustainable, described US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in an interview with Fox News this week regarding the disproportionate role the US has played in funding NATO.

However, that is on the brink of changing.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US role in NATO is not fair or sustainable.

Since the re-engagement with Russia, European leaders have come to realize they must prepare for a scenario in which the continent might need to defend itself in the future.

Discussions commenced last week when Mr. Macron convened an emergency summit to determine how to respond to the American-Russian dialogue aimed at ending the war and to address the future of European defense.

The upcoming summit in London is a follow-up to that first meeting.

Two key security challenges facing the continent are at stake, both deeply connected.

The first is the destiny of Ukraine: ensuring Kyiv achieves a fair peace agreement and that Europe is involved in any peace negotiations to conclude the war.

The cost for that involvement in what now appears to be US-brokered peace talks is that European nations may need to assume a central role in any security guarantee for Ukraine by deploying their soldiers as peacekeepers following any ceasefire agreement.

A proposal is emerging for the likely structure of a peace monitoring or reassurance force, potentially involving up to 30,000 European soldiers.

Unsurprisingly, this plan has been primarily driven by the two nations that have spearheaded this European awakening: France and the UK, the only nuclear powers in Europe.

French President Emmanuel Macron with US President Donald Trump last month.

Their leaders have expressed readiness to commit troops to a peace monitoring operation in Ukraine.

Denmark, Sweden, and Lithuania have also shown interest in contributing forces.

Others, like Germany and Poland, will require more persuasion.

According to The Telegraph, the reassurance force would involve European troops stationed well behind the front lines around the eastern cities of Poltava, Dnipro, and Kryvyi Rih.

It will be a monitoring mission, primarily using technical sensors and instruments like drones, stated Mykhailo Samus, a senior Ukrainian defense analyst, to RTE News.

The British-French plan anticipates that the mission would be bolstered by an American backstop in the form of US fighter jets based in Poland and Romania, ready to react if Russia violates the ceasefire or threatens European ground troops.

Yet, the willingness of the Trump administration to provide a security guarantee for Ukraine hangs in the balance after the events of Friday in the Oval Office.

Ukrainian and Russian forces would still hold their ceasefire positions along the frozen front lines, which now seems to be a weak point in the strategy.

Not placing a peacekeeping force between the two armiesdespite the inherent riskswill leave much to chance.

Dilemma

If Russia were to breach the ceasefire agreement, the European reassurance force would then face a dilemma on how to respond, as would the US if it agrees to provide the security backstop that Ukraine and Europe seek.

The issue for Trump is that he may believe Putins assurance that he wont attack Ukrainian forces, remarked Mr. Samus, director of the New Geopolitics Research Network, a think tank in Kyiv.

Thats why French and UK forces might only monitor the situation but be unprepared to engage. So, this poses a very challenging task for Trump.

It is understood that Mr. Starmer was meant to discuss the plan for the European reassurance force with Mr. Trump during their meeting in Washington on Thursday.

However, no information arose from the meeting regarding whether the US would extend a security guarantee to the force, which does not bode well.

Without that American backstop, the likelihood of deterring Russia would decrease significantly, leaving European troops in Ukrainestationed at critical Ukrainian infrastructure sitesmore vulnerable to potential Russian provocations.

Despite the fallout in Washington on Friday, Ukraine continues to seek that US security guaranteeregardless of the mineral dealto deter Russia from re-escalating its war in the near future.

Fridays confrontation has cast doubt on American support for Ukraine.

Of course, Russia has continued to oppose the deployment of European soldiers as peacekeepers to Ukraine, despite Mr. Trump asserting that Russian President Vladimir Putin endorsed the notion.

Consequently, the proposition of establishing a European reassurance force will be one of the first matters to discuss when talks finally commence.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin has stated that Ireland could provide peacekeepers to Ukraine if required under a UN-mandated ceasefire agreement.

The second and longer-term security challenge facing Europe lies in the need to establish an independent European defense architecture.

European leaders will look at Russia and realize that their nations cannot compete with the Kremlins annual military expenditure of 9% of GDP.

Mr. Macron has consistently advocated for Europe to possess greater autonomy from the US regarding defense.

The UK is also becoming more aligned with this idea, though it will seek to preserve its special relationship with the US. Its nuclear doctrine remains fully integrated with that of the US.

Germany, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz, has pursued a policy of providing essential armaments to Ukraine in concert with the US or only after the Biden administration has acted.

Independence from the USA

That approach is expected to shift with the appointment of the next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, leader of the center-right CDU-CSU alliance.

While he is a devoted transatlanticist, Mr. Merz has stated that his primary focus is ensuring European security and achieving independence from the USA.

These were bold declarations from a German leader aiming for Europe to develop its own independent defense capacity.

He has also sought discussions with the UK and France on whether their nuclear security could extend to Germany.

Both Merz and Scholz are strong supporters of Ukraine and advocate for a more robust EU-led security architecture, noted Sebastian Bollien, an analyst at the German Federal Academy for Security Policy, to RTE News.

A key distinction is that Merz appears more in tune with the French view regarding the potential for a US withdrawal from Europe, he added.

To achieve the sort of security independence from the US that Mr. Merz refers to, Europe will need to invest significantly.

The European Commission estimates that the EU must allocate at least 500 billion to defense over the next decade.

An immediate concern for Europe is the urgency to rearm, as many countries have dispatched their most modern armaments (as well as outdated equipment) to Ukraine.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

EU governments do not possess such spare funds, and substantial tax hikes are not a feasible option for many. Thus, borrowing is likely the only viable route.

Currently, the European Investment Bank (EIB) is prohibited from financing the production of weapons, military hardware, or ammunition.

However, this could soon change given the pressing demand for increased defense expenditure.

Nineteen EU member nations, including France and Germany, recently urged the EIB to augment its lending for Europes defense sector.

An initial discussion on various funding mechanisms may occur at next Thursdays extraordinary EU leaders summit focused on defense and Ukraine.

Mr. Zelensky has also been invited to this summit by Antonio Costa, President of the European Council, underscoring that the EU views Ukraines future as intertwined with its long-term security strategies.

Europe, as a collective, acknowledges that the time has come to become more independent from the US concerning defense.

Yet, the prospect of foregoing a US security guarantee altogetherwhether to uphold a future peace agreement in Ukraine or to shield the continent from Russian threatsis still a situation European leaders wish to avoid.

In the aftermath of Fridays unprecedented confrontation at the White House, European leaders now confront the delicate challenge of sustaining support for Mr. Zelensky and Ukraine without antagonizing the Trump administration to the point of alienating Europe entirely.

The question that looms is what role the US envisions for itself in Europes defense architecture, concluded Mr. Bollien.
The extraordinary  and completely unprecedented  events at the White House on Friday were met with unabashed delight by Russias political elite and state-run media.

The commentary predominantly relished the public reprimanding of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Additionally, analysts pondered the European response to the heated exchanges involving US President Donald Trump, US Vice President JD Vance, and his Ukrainian counterpart.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova implied that President Trump and Vice President Vance should have punched Mr. Zelensky after he stated that Ukraine had been abandoned during the conflict.

She commended Mr. Trump and Mr. Vance for their miraculous patience.

The website proclaimed that Zelensky has destroyed himself.

Komsomolskaya Pravda, one of Russias most read newspapers, referred to the events in the Oval Office as a public flogging. Meanwhile, Argumenty i Fakty, another Russian publication, celebrated the public reprimanding of the illegitimate leader of Kyivs regime.

State-run media in Russia steadfastly insists on labeling Ukraines democratically elected government as either a regime or junta  a characterization that has become standard among Kremlin-aligned outlets.

Senator Alexey Pushkov, quoted by Komsomolskaya Pravda, claimed that Washington is aware of Europes reaction to the incident.

He argued that the support shown by many European leaders has now positioned them as Mr. Trumps enemies.

Mr. Trump now possesses more than enough reasons to break ties with Europe and make it face the consequences, he added.

Komsomolskaya Pravda described the confrontation at the White House as a spectacular fiasco.

The report from Komsomolskaya Pravda

According to political analyst Sergey Markov, Europes diabolical scheme to oust Trump could be behind the Oval Office altercation, as he commented to Argumenty i Fakty, a publication controlled by the Russian government.

Mr. Markov alleged that Mr. Zelenskys arrogance was coordinated with his European and American allies  or Mr. Trumps adversaries.

The clash at the White House, Maxim Suchkov, director of the Institute for International Studies at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, noted, played directly into Russias hands.

He further added that it is now Russias turn to play its cards wisely, but conceded that the keys to ending the conflict lie with America.

More specifically, he highlighted Elon Musk, arguing that if Mr. Musk were to disable Starlink, the satellite internet service essential for Ukraines military, the war would reach a conclusion.

Mr. Markov said Ukraines military relies on Elon Musks Starlink

Interestingly, former Austrian Foreign Minister Karin Kneissl was extensively quoted by Russian media.

Following Russias invasion, Ms. Kneissl relocated to St. Petersburg, where she currently heads the Geopolitical Observatory for Russias Key Issues, a think tank established to promote Russian foreign policy.

In 2018, she became widely known for dancing with Vladimir Putin at her wedding, provoking significant outrage in Austria.

In a post on Telegram, Ms. Kneissl remarked that the White House is ushering in a new era of realism.

She further stated that the EU, caught between US tariffs  and its 16 sanction packages against Russia, will not be able to substitute the US weapons and funds devoted to Ukraine.

Another Russian senator, Konstantin Kosachev, declared that Zelensky lost this round with a resounding crash and mentioned he would need to crawl on his knees for the next encounter.

He added that todays summit in London, organized by Keir Starmer, holds even greater significance.

European nations, he asserted, would be required to choose which side they are on.
An oil tanker believed to be associated with Russias shadow fleet and suspected of causing damage to undersea Baltic cables has been permitted to exit Finlands waters, where it has been detained since December, according to Finnish police.

The Eagle S, registered in the Cook Islands, is alleged to have deliberately dragged its anchor for several kilometers along the Baltic seabed, resulting in damage to an electrical cable and four telecommunications cables on December 25.

As the criminal investigation carried out by the National Bureau of Investigation, including the forensic examination aboard the Eagle S, has advanced, there are no longer justifications for maintaining the seizure of the tanker, the police stated in a release.

The anchor was located by the Swedish navy in January.

The investigation will proceed, with police indicating that they anticipate its completion by the end of April.

Security analysts assert that Russia is operating an extensive shadow fleet comprising hundreds of vessels, attempting to evade the sanctions imposed by Western nations on its oil exports due to the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Several undersea Baltic cables were compromised last year, leading many experts to describe it as part of a hybrid war waged by Russia against Western countries.

Following Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022, both Sweden and Finland became NATO members, and the military alliance has recently intensified its monitoring efforts in the Baltic Sea.

The Finnish coast guard will accompany the tanker to international waters.
by Anna Maria Barry-Jester and Brett Murphy

( ProPublica )  After the Trump administration moved to freeze nearly $60 billion in foreign aid in January, officials like Secretary of State Marco Rubio repeatedly assured Americans that lifesaving operations would continue. We dont want to see anybody die, he told reporters in early February.

Aid organizations the world over scrambled to prove their work saved lives, seeking permission from the State Department and the U.S. Agency for International Development to continue operating.

The administration conceded that many programs prevent immediate death and should remain online: field hospitals in Gaza, an HIV drug supplier for the Democratic Republic of Congo, Syrian refugee food programs, health clinics that combat Ebola in Uganda and most of the landmark Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, known as PEPFAR.

In late January, Rubio and one of his top aides, Peter Marocco, said those programs and dozens of others could continue, granting them temporary waivers while the officials conducted what they have called a targeted, case-by-case review of all foreign aid programs managed by the State Department and USAID. That review, they said, would take three months.

Four weeks later, on Wednesday, Rubio and Marocco completely ended nearly 10,000 aid programs in one fell swoop  including those they had granted waivers just days earlier  saying the programs did not align with Trumps agenda. The move consigns untold numbers of the worlds poorest children, refugees and other vulnerable people to death, according to several senior federal officials. Local authorities have already begun estimating a death toll in the hundreds of thousands.

Now, as the administration faces multiple lawsuits challenging its actions, the court fights largely hinge on whether government officials deliberated responsibly before cutting off funding. The U.S. has also refused to pay almost $2 billion that the government owes aid organizations for work theyve already completed.

Rubio and Marocco appear to have taken their dramatic steps without the careful review theyve described to the courts, according to internal documents and interviews with more than a dozen officials from the State Department and USAID, which raises fresh questions about the legality of President Donald Trumps evisceration of the American foreign aid system.

Current and former officials say that Marocco and Rubio cut critical programs without consulting contract officers, who have oversight of individual programs and are aid groups primary contacts. None of us believe that theyre conducting a careful, individualized review, one official said.

In an episode that highlights how cursory and haphazard their efforts appear to have been, Marocco and Rubio ordered the cancellation of contracts, including for cellphone service, at an office they do not control. The move stranded people in war zones without phones, according to multiple officials and internal correspondence obtained by ProPublica. On Wednesday, AT&T received a termination notice for a $430,000 contract with USAIDs Office of Inspector General. That office is meant to be independent from USAID so that it can effectively audit the agency.

For more than 24 hours, OIG staff, including people in Ukraine and Haiti, did not have access to their government phones. No one at the OIG, including contract officers, knew it was coming, according to the officials. This is an urgent issue for us, as we have OIG staff in warzones with no ability to receive security alerts, a senior official in the agency wrote in an email to the company.

Eventually USAID reversed the termination.

Current and former officials throughout USAID and the State Department said the breakneck pace, lack of input from key officials, mistaken cancellations and boilerplate language in Wednesdays termination notices undermine Maroccos claims of a deliberative process.

Its a pretext, one USAID official told ProPublica. The review was supposed to take 90 days. An actual review based on substance requires laying out a process with guidelines, identifying info on each project, and selecting working groups to review. Any review they did was fake.

If that turns out to be the case, legal experts and government officials say, the administration will have defied a federal judges order in a brazen gambit to continue dismantling USAID.

The morning after the mass termination notices went out, a senior USAID official sent an email saying Marocco and Rubio had canceled awards for essential services that the agency now wanted reinstated, telling staff, We need your immediate input on any awards that may have been terminated that contain essential services related to the safety, security, and operations of USAID staff, according to a court filing.

Since the initial decision to suspend foreign aid, humanitarian organizations and labor groups have taken the government to court, arguing that only Congress can dismantle USAID and that Trumps blanket actions are unconstitutional. The government has told the courts that it has the right to cancel contracts, dismiss staff and reorganize USAID to align with Trumps agenda.

Earlier this month, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting USAID and the State Department from following Trumps executive orders to stop all foreign aid and to force the agency to pay its bills. When it didnt comply, the judge issued another order, giving the government until midnight Wednesday to pay what it owes to aid groups.

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court temporarily paused the last order over unpaid bills to conduct further legal review. That same day, aid organizations around the world began receiving termination notices.

More than 90% of USAIDs global aid operations and half of those managed by the State Department received termination notices. The move is already putting children and refugees in gravely dangerous situations. The administration canceled almost 50 United Nations Population Fund projects worth more than $370 million, including programs to address maternal deaths and gender-based violence in Egypt, Nigeria and several other member nations around the world.

In early February, the nonprofit Alight received waivers for its programs supporting refugees in war-torn Sudan, Somalia and South Sudan. On Wednesday, they were all terminated.

Alight runs six centers for extremely malnourished children in Sudan, where the organization treats babies and infants so sick that they will die within hours without ongoing care. The centers cost about $120,000 a month to operate. Alight is trying to fundraise to keep them open, knowing that the day they close their doors, children will die, CEO Jocelyn Wyatt told ProPublica.

In the meantime, they have been forced to close other lifesaving programs. In Somalia, around 700 malnourished children visited Alight clinics every day for weight check-ins and to pick up special food. Thirteen health clinics and a mobile unit served around 1,200 patients a day. On Thursday, all of those clinics closed, Wyatt said.

Alight also shuttered 33 primary health clinics in Sudan and stopped providing water to three refugee camps that house people displaced by decades of war. Alight had kept all those programs running these past five weeks, even though the organization hasnt received any payments since Trump took office.

We believed when Rubio said that there was no intention of cutting emergency lifesaving services that would basically cause immediate death, said Wyatt. We trusted that those would be protected.



File. Michelle Jennings, a USAID Foreign Service officer, speaks with Guatemalan Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Lionel Maza (right) and other Guatemalan diplomats during the joint DOD/USAID Spanish Language Immersion Program in Washington, DC, Feb. 27, 2018. Public Domain. Via Picryl.

One of the State Departments highest-ranking humanitarian aid officials, Jennifer Davis, stepped down this week, according to her resignation letter, which was obtained by ProPublica. During a meeting earlier this week, Davis, the principal deputy assistant secretary of the agencys refugees bureau, told staff she believed she was bound by the judges order to restore programs and their funding, according to an attendee. She was in tears about it, the attendee said. (Davis did not respond to a request for comment.)

The State Department, USAID and the White House did not respond to a detailed list of questions for this story. The State Department did not make Rubio available for an interview. Marocco also did not respond to questions.

By Thursday, hundreds of workers had returned to USAIDs former headquarters, where the name has been removed from the building facade, to collect their personal items. They left with boxes and suitcases. Some were crying. Dozens of people cheered and rang bells each time someone exited the building; many of them had recently lost humanitarian aid jobs as well.

This is more than lost jobs. Were losing the sector, a former USAID employee said through tears as she waited for her allotted 15-minute time window to pick up her belongings. The U.S. government is losing its influence. Were now more unsafe as a country.

In the early hours of Feb. 13 at a refugee camp in northern Syria, two armed men wearing masks and police uniforms broke into offices and a warehouse for the aid group Blumont, stealing more than $12,000 worth of laptops and other supplies the U.S. government had already paid for. Because the organization hadnt received any funds since Trump took office, it no longer had personnel at the camp full time and had paused all its U.S.-funded work except a daily bread delivery.

The armed theft was the result of the U.S. not paying its bills, the group told USAID officials, according to an internal agency email obtained by ProPublica.

Shortly after the incident, the government started paying Blumonts invoices and the aid group brought back staff and food services that had received a waiver. It is one of the few programs still online and receiving money.

Prior to Jan. 20, the U.S. spent about $60 billion on nonmilitary humanitarian and developmental aid each year  far more than any other country in total dollars, but less than 1% of the federal budget. The vast majority of that money is managed by USAID and the State Department. A network of aid organizations carry out the work, which is funded by Congress.

Since Trump took office, Marocco and Rubio have not only halted foreign aid, laid off thousands of workers and put many more on administrative leave, they have also stopped paying bills for work that has already been done. In one of several lawsuits related to the administrations dismantling of USAID, aid groups are suing the federal government over the mass program closures and unpaid bills. It was that case that led federal district court Judge Amir Ali to order the administration to settle those bills, which by Feb. 13 totaled nearly $2 billion, according to figures Marocco gave the court. Almost none of it has been paid, the court filings show.

U.S. taxpayers will also be on the hook for interest and damages from the unpaid bills and broken contracts, legal experts told ProPublica.

Organizations have struggled to get through the opaque waiver process, and programs that succeeded were often so strapped for cash because the government hadnt reimbursed them that they remained inoperative. Medicines that were already purchased by U.S. taxpayers are languishing in warehouses instead of being delivered to the people who need them, several contractors told ProPublica.

On Wednesday, as Chief Justice John Roberts temporarily paused the district courts order to the federal government to pay its bills, the administration told the court it had terminated 5,800 of the 6,300 foreign aid programs that USAID administered. The government also shuttered 4,100 programs managed by the State Department, about 60% of the total.

In Maroccos own testimony to the court on Feb. 18 about the process, he said that senior staff and political appointees choose specific awards to be evaluated for termination or suspension. He said he personally examines the program and any potential consequences of terminating it before making final recommendations to Rubio.

But USAID staff say that subject-area experts and key personnel who are responsible for the programs were not involved in many terminations, while most others had already lost their jobs.

In the case of the phone contract for the OIG office, for example, the contract officers had no idea the termination notices were coming, officials said. Those officers are specially trained in contract law and regulations to manage these agreements and make sure the government is in compliance. But they were cut out of the process and only learned about it from AT&T, according to the officials and internal emails obtained by ProPublica. (AT&T did not respond to a request for comment.)

The one-page notice to the telecom giant said that Rubio and Marocco had determined your award is not aligned with Agency priorities and made a determination that continuing this program is not in the national interest. The notice added: Immediately cease all activities.

The notice came as an emailed PDF and not through the normal file management and correspondence system, which led multiple OIG officials to question whether anyone even looked at the contracts basic information, like its statement of work, much less conducted a careful review.

David Black, an attorney specializing in government contracts, said that the law requires contract officers to approve termination notices and that the episode with the OIG raises questions about Maroccos claims in court about careful reviews. It suggests the process was done very hastily, he said.

On the ground, in the places where the aid kept starvation at bay and deadly viruses in check, program directors say there will now be little to stop those threats.

What really bothers me is that were just looking at numbers, were not thinking about real people who are actually going to suffer the consequences of these terminations, said Dr. Anja Giphart, the acting president of the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, which had HIV programs terminated in Eswatini, Lesotho and Tanzania.

Pulling treatment away from pregnant women means children will be infected with HIV in the weeks ahead, Giphart said. And doing it so suddenly means other governments and donors dont have the opportunity to step in. Half of children who are undiagnosed and untreated for HIV die before their first birthday. We dont have the luxury of waiting months and months to get this back on track again, she said.

In Uganda, Baylor College of Medicine Childrens Foundation, which is funded by USAID, treats tens of thousands of patients for HIV and tuberculosis. In addition, it has for years been one of the only organizations in the country that helps contain Ebola outbreaks  including the current one, which has so far killed two people and infected at least eight others. Earlier this month, the U.S. government issued the foundation a waiver and said it could continue its lifesaving work.

So those who run the foundation were shocked to receive a termination notice hours later. The foundations executive director, Dr. Dithan Kiragga, told ProPublica his staff had just begun contact tracing patients with Ebola. He said they will likely now have to halt all U.S.-funded operations and hope that the Uganda health ministry can step in.

The patients will be told that we are closing, Kiragga said. Theyve relied on our systems and support for quite a few years. We saved lives.

ProPublica plans to continue covering USAID, the State Department and the consequences of ending U.S. foreign aid. We want to hear from you. Reach out via Signal to reporters Brett Murphy at 508-523-5195 and Anna Maria Barry-Jester at 408-504-8131. Maryam Jameel and Ashley Clarke contributed reporting.

Anna Maria Barry-Jester

I report on global public health and the agencies that govern it, including the NIH, IHS, USAID and CDC.

Brett Murphy

Im a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter on ProPublicas national desk, where I write about the government, companies and power.
( Tomdispatch.com )  There has almost always been an outright hostility that is shown towards people of the Christian faith, House Speaker Mike Johnson said on a podcast recently. He was talking with Tony Perkins, a former Louisiana lawmaker and president of the Family Research Council, about freedom of religion and the actions of the second Trump administration.

I have to admit that such a statement from this countrys third most powerful politician and an avowed Christian nationalist almost takes my breath away. Of all the people facing hostility, discrimination, and violence now and throughout history, Christians like Mike Johnson rank low on the list. Still, his comment is consistent with a disturbing religious trend in the country right now.

As an early act of his second administration, Donald Trump has created an anti-Christian bias task force to be chaired by Attorney General Pam Bondi. At the same time, hes slashing federal jobs and programs, threatening Medicaid, Head Start, the Department of Education, affordable housing programs, accommodations for the disabled, environmental protections, public health and safety, Social Security, and Medicare, while scapegoating immigrants and trans kids. Its particularly ironic that Trump, Johnson, and the people with them in the top echelons of power are targeting those that the Bible is most concerned about  children, the poor, immigrants, the sick and disabled, women, the vulnerable, and the earth itself. Meanwhile, Elon Musk, the richest man ever to exist, who has built his wealth off exploiting the poor, goes so far as to call the impoverished parasites. After all, there are more than 2,000 Biblical passages that speak about protecting the vulnerable, offering good news to the poor, stewarding Gods creation, and bringing judgment down upon those with wealth and power who make people suffer.

Pope Francis himself has weighed in on the regressive policies and posture of the current administration. To Americas bishops he wrote, The true common good is promoted when society and government, with creativity and strict respect for the rights of all  as I have affirmed on numerous occasions  welcomes, protects, promotes and integrates the most fragile, unprotected and vulnerable. Indeed, if any Christians are under attack right now, its those included in what liberation theologians have called Gods preferential option for the poor (the very creation for whom God has special love and care) and those standing up with and for them.

The Pope hasnt been the only one to challenge the use of religion in the Trump administration. Since the inauguration, the actions of Johnson, Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and others have been opposed and decried by people of faith of many persuasions. Remember Episcopal Bishop Marian Budde imploring President Trump to show mercy, especially to immigrants and LGBTQ+ people, at the Inaugural Prayer Service at the Washington National Cathedral? Since her gentle reminder that the Bible teaches love, truth, and mercy, she has received regular and credible death threats on a daily basis, even as people have also flocked to the Cathedral and other houses of worship in search of moral leaders willing to stand up to the bullying tactics of Donald Trump, the richest man on earth Elon Musk, and their cronies.

In response to Trumps threats of mass detention and deportation, especially removing sensitive sites status from houses of worship, schools, and hospitals, while threatening sanctuary cities with a loss of federal funding, 27 religious groups have sued the Trump administration for infringement of their religious liberty to honor and worship God by loving their immigrant neighbors. Kelsi Corkran, a lawyer with the Georgetown University Law Centers Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and lead counsel in that lawsuit, said that plaintiffs joined the suit because their scripture, teaching, and traditions offer irrefutable unanimity on their religious obligation to embrace and serve the refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants in their midst without regard to documentation or legal status.

Faith leaders are coming together to support and protect transgender and nonbinary people now under attack by the Trump administration as well. My colleagues Aaron Scott and Moses Hernandez-McGavin recently penned an article for Religion News Service where they affirmed the dignity of LGBTQ+ people, even as Christian nationalists continue to build their influence and power by damning LGBTQ+ communities, all while claiming to protect children and traditional family values. Gender diversity, they wrote,

is a fact of human existence older than Scripture and is thoroughly attested to in the Bible. Jesuss teaching about eunuchs in the Gospel of Matthew makes clear there are human beings who exist outside of the gender binary from birth, as well as those who live outside the gender binary for the sake of the kingdom. In the story of the Ethiopian eunuchs baptism, the Book of Acts lifts up the spiritual leadership of gender non-conforming people of African descent. In the Hebrew Bibles Book of Isaiah, God affirms not only the sanctity but the spiritual importance of people outside the gender binary, promising us a name better than sons and daughters. The Talmud reflects this affirmation of gender diversity, recognizing no fewer than seven genders.

A Battle for the Bible in History

The battle of theologies taking place right now is anything but a new phenomenon, even if its at an inflection point, with life-and-death consequences for our democracy, Christianity itself, and those who are Gods greatest concern. The Christian nationalism, exceptionalism, and white supremacy ascendant in Trump 2.0 has evolved from a long genealogy that has enabled an elite strata of mostly white Christian men to rule society and amass enormous wealth and power throughout American history.

Such Christians have always anointed themselves with the lie of divine righteousness, while insisting that they are Gods chosen representatives on Earth. To maintain this charade, they have brandished the Bible like a cudgel, bludgeoning poor people, people of color, the Indigenous, women, LGBTQ+ people, and others with tales of their supposed sinfulness meant to distract, demean, divide, and dispossess. Therefore, if we are truly serious about confronting and countering the influence of such an authoritarian version of Christianity under Trump, Vance, Johnson, and their associates and followers, we must learn from how its been wielded (and challenged) in other times in history.

The roots of such idolatry reach back centuries, even before the founding of this nation, to the conquest of Indigenous lands by European invaders. In 1493, after Spain first sent its ships to islands in the Caribbean, Pope Alexander VI issued the Doctrine of Discovery, a series of papal bulls granting all newly discovered lands to their Christian conquerors. Those church documents asserted the supposed godlessness of Indigenous peoples, smoothing over the ruthless colonial campaign of extermination being waged with a veneer of moral virtue. Centuries later, the idea of manifest destiny drew on the same religious underpinnings as the Doctrine of Discovery, popularizing the belief that white Christians were destined by God to control and therefore redeem the lands of the West. Manifest destiny not only valorized the violence of westward expansion but sanctified and made exceptional the emerging project of American imperialism. God, the argument went, had chosen this nation to be a beacon of hope, a city upon a hill for the whole world.

Alongside the dispossession and attempted extermination of Indigenous peoples, invocations of God and the Bible were used to justify the enslavement of African peoples and their descendants. Slaveholders cherry-picked passages from the book of Ephesians  slaves obey your earthly masters  and lines from other epistles of the Apostle Paul to claim that slavery was ordained by God. They ripped out of the pages on the Exodus from Egypt, huge sections of the prophets, and even Jesuss inaugural sermon praising the poor and dispossessed from the Bibles they gave to their enslaved workers. Those Slave Bibles would serve as evidence of just how dangerous the unadulterated gospel was to the legitimacy of the slaveholding planter class.

They also twisted theology to serve their political needs by obscuring the common interests of enslaved Black workers and poor Southern whites. Readings of the Bible that claimed God had singled out Black people for slave labor helped the Southern ruling class turn many of the regions majority of poor whites into zealous defenders of a system that relegated them to marginal lands and poverty wages.

After the fall of the Confederacy, the Bible remained core to the new racialized divide-and-conquer system in the South. Pro-segregationist preachers, no longer able to use the Bible to defend slavery per se, turned to stories like the Tower of Babel to claim that God desired racial segregation and abhorred intermarriage across racial lines. In 1954, Baptist preacher Carey Daniel wrote a pamphlet entitled God the Original Segregationist in which he explained: When first He separated the black race from the white and lighter skinned races He did not simply put them in different parts of town. He did not even put them in different towns or states. Nay, He did not even put them in adjoining countries. The pamphlet was distributed widely by White Citizens Councils and sold more than a million copies.

Parallel to the theological justifications for the system of segregation that came to be known as Jim Crow, a national theology of industrial capitalism emerged in the late 1800s and early 1900s. During the Gilded Age, a prosperity gospel and its theology of muscular Christianity flourished among the white upper class. Amid the excesses of the Second Industrial Revolution, they celebrated their own hard work and moral rectitude and bemoaned the personal failings of the poor. When the economic bubble finally burst in 1929 with the Great Depression and President Franklin Delano Roosevelts New Deal ushered in an unprecedented era of financial regulation and labor protection, the nations corporate class turned once again to the church to fight back and put a stamp of approval on its free-market aspirations.

As historian Kevin Kruse writes in One Nation Under God: How Corporate America Invented Christian America, in the 1930s and 1940s, corporate titans enlisted conservative clergymen in an effort to promote new political arguments embodied in the phrase freedom under God. As the private correspondence and public claims of the men leading this charge make clear, this new ideology was designed to defeat the state power its architects feared most  not the Soviet regime in Moscow, but Franklin D. Roosevelts New Deal administration in Washington. With ample funding from major corporations, prominent industrialists, and business lobbies such as the National Association of Manufacturers and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in the 1930s and 1940s, these new evangelists for free enterprise promoted a vision best characterized as Christian libertarianism.

The phrase freedom under God captures the tension at the heart of the long battle over the Bible in this country in which there have always been two diametrically opposed visions of freedom: on one side, the freedom of the vast majority of the people to enjoy the fruits of their labor and live with dignity and self-determination; on the other side, the freedom of the wealthy to control society, sow division, and hoard the planets (and in Elon Musks case, the galaxys) abundance for themselves. Poor people, disproportionately poor people of color, have always been on the front lines of this battle, as both canaries in the coal mine and prophetic leaders. Think of it this way in the age of Trump: As their lives go, so goes the nation.

Ordo Amoris and Other Theologies of the Day

This age-old debate is playing out in JD Vances recent statement about ordo amoris (or rightly-ordered love). Weighing in on cutting both domestic and global aid as well as scapegoating immigrants, the vice president wrote on social media, You love your family, and then you love your neighbor, and then you love your community, and then you love your fellow citizens in your own country. And then after that, you can focus and prioritize the rest of the world.

Pope Francis offered a fitting rebuttal to Vances statement and the actions of the second Trump administration by summing up its deeply heretical nature and echoing a historic prophetic tradition of increasing importance again today. In his letter to the American bishops, urging them to reject Vances theology of isolationism and egotism, Pope Francis wrote, Christian love is not a concentric expansion of interests that little by little extend to other persons and groups. In other words: the human person is not a mere individual, relatively expansive, with some philanthropic feelings! The human person is a subject with dignity who, through the constitutive relationship with all, especially with the poorest, can gradually mature in his identity and vocation. The true ordo amoris that must be promoted is that which we discover by meditating constantly on the parable of the Good Samaritan (cf. Lk 10:25-37), that is, by meditating on the love that builds a fraternity open to all, without exception.

As this statement from the Pope reminds us, history is replete with examples of people from many religions who have grounded their struggles for justice in the holy word and the spirit of God, not just extremists trying to claim and justify their lust for power and avarice for wealth. Abolitionists, suffragists, labor organizers, student protestors, civil rights leaders, and various representatives of poor and oppressed people have insisted that divinity cannot be reduced to private matters of the soul and salvation. They have affirmed that truth, love, and justice, starting with the most vulnerable and marginalized, are what matter the most to God. They have insisted that the worship of God must be concerned with the building of a society in which all life is cared for and treated with dignity. In every previous era, there were courageous people for whom protest and public action were a form of prayer, even as the religious leaders and institutions of their day hid behind sanctuary walls  walls currently being torn down again to release forces devastating to the most vulnerable among us and to the planet itself.

Today, while the Trump administration continues to unveil new attacks daily on what the Bible calls, the least of these, its important to remember the prophetic tradition of faith leaders of the past as well as the heroic, if often unnoticed, moral organizing happening now. I return to my colleagues Aaron Scott and Moses Hernandez-McGavin who sum up the sentiment of many people of faith in our society today: Gods love and truth are alive whether elected officials seek to legislate them out of existence or not. Gods Word continues to call for justice and mercy for all people regardless of the distortions of the Word by religious and political leaders obsessed with the worship of their own power. They are not God. And God will not, and cannot, be stopped.

As they conclude, offering a message of hope and encouragement in these dark and dangerous days: Gods liberating action will break through in this world through the steadfast work and witness of people of goodwill who are beholden to a higher law, who refuse to comply with unjust executive orders, who continue to defend the vulnerable against abuses of the powerful in courtrooms and school buildings and hospitals and in the streets across the country.

The question then is: In the second age of Donald Trump, which side will you choose?

Copyright 2025 Liz Theoharis

Via Tomdispatch.com
VANCOUVER, BC, March 3, 2025 /CNW/ - GR Silver Mining Ltd. ("GR Silver Mining" or the "Company") (TSXV: GRSL) (OTCQB: GRSLF) (FRANKFURT: GPE)  The Company is pleased to announce resumption of field exploration and step out drilling targeting potential resource expansion at the San Marcial Area.

Highlights

After detailed geological, geochemical and geophysical data modelling in partnership with leading geological experts, the Company has identified multiple new drill targets in the vicinity of the San Marcial Resource Area.

The Company is commencing a step-out drilling program aiming to expand the San Marcial mineralization footprint by as much as 350 metres northwest from the current NI 43-101 resource area, as well as test potential new parallel zones.

Initial reconnaissance of silver mineralized hydrothermal breccias outcropping in the northwest and southwest areas on the edge of a large chargeability anomaly has encouraged the Company to continue surface exploration.

To date, only 25% of the footprint defined by coincident geophysical and geochemical anomalies and highlighted by the drill hole SMS22-10 intercept that cut 101 m averaging 308 g/t Ag including 0.8 m grading 7,139 g/t Ag at shallow depth, has been tested.

averaging 308 g/t Ag including grading 7,139 g/t Ag at shallow depth, has been tested. A successful Bulk Sampling Test Mining (" BSTM ") program at the historical San Juan Mine has prompted the Company to further evaluate high-grade silver-gold-lead-zinc mineralization. In addition, metallurgical results from the production and delivery of attractive concentrates to an off-taker, are being assessed. This data is assisting the Company in its third-party discussions to facilitate commencement of a BSTM program at the permitted former Plomosas Mine.

") program at the historical San Juan Mine has prompted the Company to further evaluate high-grade silver-gold-lead-zinc mineralization. In addition, metallurgical results from the production and delivery of attractive concentrates to an off-taker, are being assessed. This data is assisting the Company in its third-party discussions to facilitate commencement of a BSTM program at the permitted former Plomosas Mine. Positive corporate improvements during 2024 have positioned GR Silver Mining for a return to exploration in 2025. Our corporate successes included the sale of a non-core asset, elimination of its working capital deficit, compensation from a third party for a historical environmental impasse, a 106% uplift in the Company share price and strengthened leadership through the recruitment of new directors.

GR Silver Mining saw the exercise of 11.9 million warrants prior to their expiry on February 14 , yielding proceeds of $1.8 million at an exercise price of $0.15 .

, yielding proceeds of at an exercise price of . A strong round of consolidation in the Mexican mining industry indicates improvement in the attractiveness of Mexico for future project developments and assessments of new business opportunities. GR Silver Mining's management is exploring opportunities to achieve critical mass going forward.

Our Primary Objective for 2025: Expansion of the Mineralization Footprint at San Marcial

Management recognizes that the Company's greatest value driver is exploration of the highly prospective San Marcial system with its silver-dominant, wide and continuous mineralization. GR Silver Mining is conducting detailed data modelling studies in conjunction with CODES, the globally regarded Centre for Ore Deposit and Earth Sciences at the University of Tasmania (link). This partnership with Dr. Paula Montoya unlocks key information to assist the Company to define new mineralized zones potentially comparable with other major silver districts in the Sierra Madre Occidental. Importantly, fine-tuning of the geological model at San Marcial has yielded several high-priority targets for further drilling. Four of these targets (Figure 1) are currently selected for new step-out and exploration drilling.

The Company has continuously increased resources at the San Marcial Area since its acquisition. The Company believes the studies in progress may catalyze the further expansion of the San Marcial resource to the northwest and southeast. Step-out drilling after the 2023 MRE continued to demonstrate wide, silver-dominant mineralization at relatively shallow depths, extending the mineralized footprint as much as 500 m to the southeast. We believe that follow up drilling to depth and to the southeast is highly prospective at San Marcial.

The identification of the controls on mineralization at San Marcial resulted in the recognition of the presence of the wide mineralized SE Discovery zone at a shallow depth but not outcropping. Geological interpretation, lithogeochemical sampling, and geophysical modelling together with the analysis of key structural corridors provides a template for new exploration and drilling, recognizing that mineralization can be blind, i.e., not obvious at surface (Figure 2).

GR Silver Mining has been engaged in securing the necessary permits for expanded drill programs on the San Marcial Area. As we await these additional permits, our geologists have been active in relogging core, analyzing data, and deposit modeling while based in our offices in El Rosario. Drill programs have been designed, and details will be provided as programs are initiated. The first phase of 2025 drilling has commenced with approximately 1,300 metres planned in up to seven shallow holes targeting near surface, high-grade silver mineralization.

Surface exploration efforts continue with the support of data modelling and mineral prospectivity assessment along the major regional structures in the San Marcial Area. Initial reconnaissance of silver mineralized hydrothermal breccias outcropping in the northwest and southwest areas on the edge of a large geophysical anomaly (chargeability) has encouraged the Company to continue surface exploration (see post on LinkedIn). To date, only 25% of the footprint defined by coincident geophysical and geochemical anomalies and highlighted by the drill hole SMS22-10 intercept that cut 101 m averaging 308 g/t Ag including 0.8 m grading 7,139 g/t Ag at shallow depth, has been tested.

The Former Plomosas Mine: An Unrecognized Asset

As previously noted (news release, March 4, 2024), GR Silver engaged private local operators (mining and milling) to conduct a small-scale BSTM program at the historical San Juan mine site, which is located on a parallel structure several kilometres west of the former Plomosas Mine. The program yielded valuable incremental knowledge related to high-grade modeling and targeting, grade reconciliation, and mineral deposit modeling to define new drill targets. From January to September 2024, 20,620 t of material were mined and 20,430 t milled by the private local operators. A total of 420 t (dry) of lead concentrate were sold, averaging 10.43% Pb, 8,357 g/t Ag, and 8.19 g/t Au, with proceeds contributing to Other Income in the Company's financial statements.

Given the success of the San Juan BSTM program, management is exploring similar options for the former Plomosas Mine. The former Plomosas Mine offers,

Broad lead-zinc-silver-gold mineralization over average widths exceeding 20m .

. Existing infrastructure including road access, power to site, 7.4km of underground development with excellent ground conditions,

Mining licences and exploration and exploitation agreements with ejidos in place and fully owned land, and

Advanced geological, metallurgical and engineering knowledge from recent studies as well as 15 years of production records by the previous operator (1986 to 2000).

We believe that the market is focused on further exploration results at San Marcial rather than the former Plomosas Mine, despite the latter's positive attributes. To generate shareholder value, management has signed several Non-Disclosure Agreements and participated in due diligence exercises in support of a potential BSTM at the former Plomosas Mine. Although management is encouraged by our ongoing efforts, there are no guarantees that any of these discussions will come to fruition on a forward-looking basis.

Achieved 2024 Objectives Position GR Silver Mining for an Exciting 2025 Outlook

In 2023, GR Silver Mining met its key objective, delivering an updated NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the Plomosas Project (news release, May 4, 2023). The updated MRE resulted in an increase in Indicated resources to 85 million ounces AgEq (+84% relative to the 2021 NI 43-101 MRE) and an increase in Inferred resources to 49 million ounces AgEq (+49% relative to the 2021 NI 43-101 MRE).

In 2023 and 2024, with changes in the Mexican Mining Legislation, it was necessary for explorers in Mexico to re-evaluate their strategies in the face of investment headwinds. The 2024 year became transformative for GR Silver Mining and the Company has noticed improvements in opportunities to continue advancing the Plomosas Project. We defined several key objectives, and delivered on them, as outlined following:

Conducted a detailed review and modeling of exploration data related to the discoveries in the San Marcial Area. In conjunction with CODES and leading expert in Sierra Madre Occidental geology, Dr. Paula Montoya , informing upcoming drill programs aiming for new discoveries and resource expansion.

, informing upcoming drill programs aiming for new discoveries and resource expansion. Negotiated and closed a Waiver and Release Agreement (news release, April 1, 2024 ) by which the Company received USD$500,000 cash and 296,710 common shares of Mako Mining Corp. at a deemed price of $2.1007 per share ( USD$460,000 ; CAD$623,300 ).

) by which the Company received cash and 296,710 common shares of Mako Mining Corp. at a deemed price of per share ( ; ). In March 2024 , the Company engaged private local operators (mining and milling) to conduct a small scale BSTM program at the historical San Juan mine site. For a very low cost, GR Silver Mining gained incremental knowledge related to high-grade modeling and targeting, grade reconciliation, and mineral deposit modeling to define new drill targets.

, the Company engaged private local operators (mining and milling) to conduct a small scale BSTM program at the historical mine site. For a very low cost, GR Silver Mining gained incremental knowledge related to high-grade modeling and targeting, grade reconciliation, and mineral deposit modeling to define new drill targets. The Company's working capital deficit, which had reached $27.4 million by the end of June 2024 , was driven by major Mexican mining concession arrears, interest, and penalties related to an earlier acquisition. By disposing of its non-core Marlin Gold subsidiary in July 2024 (news release, July 17, 2024 ), a positive working capital position was achieved at September 30, 2024 without the loss of a single ounce of resource. Expenses before depreciation, concession fees, and exploration expenditures were reduced 33% over the two years to September 30, 2024 , including a 55% reduction in salaries and directors' fees. Near the end of 2023 and through 2024, we closed three non-brokered private placements, and we are very grateful for the support of existing and new shareholders, as well as our capital markets partners.

by the end of , was driven by major Mexican mining concession arrears, interest, and penalties related to an earlier acquisition. By disposing of its non-core subsidiary in (news release, ), a positive working capital position was achieved at without the loss of a single ounce of resource. Expenses before depreciation, concession fees, and exploration expenditures were reduced 33% over the two years to , including a 55% reduction in salaries and directors' fees. Near the end of 2023 and through 2024, we closed three non-brokered private placements, and we are very grateful for the support of existing and new shareholders, as well as our capital markets partners. We are extremely grateful to our Management and Board of Directors for defining and successfully delivering on significant corporate objectives, in the face of external challenges. In August 2024 (news release, August 6, 2024 ) we were pleased to welcome Mr. Brent McFarlane , former Vice President, Operations at SilverCrest Mines. We also welcomed Ms. Jessica Van Den Akker , a Chartered Professional Accountant with over 18 years of experience and progressively increasing management and board responsibility, to our Board. Combined, they strengthen mining engineering, accounting, and capital markets expertise in the Company's Board skills matrix.

As we successfully delivered on our objectives through the year, aided by a strengthening silver price, GR Silver's share price ended the year up 106%. Measured from the nadir of October 2023, the Company's share price gained 371%. Liquidity is attractive with a 30-day Average Trading Volume of over 465,000 shares.

Since the beginning of 2025:

The price of silver increased 14% to a peak of US$33.49 /oz.

/oz. GR Silver saw the exercise of 11.9 million warrants prior to their expiry on February 14 , yielding proceeds of $1.8 million at an exercise price of $0.15 . The support of our shareholders is greatly appreciated.

, yielding proceeds of at an exercise price of . The support of our shareholders is greatly appreciated. First Majestic Silver Corp. closed (news release, January 16, 2025 ) the acquisition of Gatos Silver, Inc. and Coeur Mining, Inc. closed (news release, February 14, 2025 ) the acquisition of SilverCrest Metals Inc., suggesting the potential for an incipient wave of Mexican silver consolidation and an improvement in the attractiveness of mining business opportunities in Mexico .

Upcoming Conferences

GR Silver Mining will be participating in the upcoming conferences:

The Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada's Convention in Toronto , February 28 to March 5 , Booth #2133.

Convention in , , Booth #2133. The Swiss Institute conference in Zurich, Switzerland , Attending March 18 and 19.

Qualified Person

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Marcio Fonseca, P. Geo., President & COO for GR Silver Mining, who has reviewed and approved its contents.

About GR Silver Mining Ltd.

GR Silver Mining is a Canadian-based, Mexico-focused junior mineral exploration company engaged in cost effective silver-gold resource expansion on its 100%-owned assets, located on the eastern edge of the Rosario Mining District, in the southeast of Sinaloa State, Mexico. GR Silver Mining controls 100% of the Plomosas Project, including the former Plomosas underground mine and wide, high-grade silver mineralized zones at the San Marcial Area. Recent discoveries in the 78 km2 of highly prospective advanced stage exploration concessions, position the Company well in the pursuit for resource expansion at the Plomosas Project.

GR Silver Mining Ltd.

Eric Zaunscherb

Chair & CEO

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and information that are based on the beliefs of management and reflect the Company's current expectations. When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. Risks and uncertainties may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
Vancouver, British Columbia  TheNewswire - March 03, 2025 - Leocor Mining Inc. (the Company or Leocor) (CSE: LECR, OTCQB: LECRF; Frankfurt: LGO0) (formerly Leocor Gold Inc.), a junior resource company focussed on the exploration and development of gold-copper projects in Eastern Canada, is pleased to provide an update on the ongoing drill program at the Baie Verte project, a 2,002-ha contiguous exploration package located on the north central coast of the island of Newfoundland in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Crews completed the Copper Creek drill drilling campaign on Feb 27th after successfully drilling 21 diamond drill holes. Drilling equipment is now remobilizing the companys Dorset project to explore gold mineralization targets defined by anomalous surface geochemistry, ground magnetometer survey interpretation and the companys previous trenching results reported (news release dated February 20th 2025).

Following the previously reported occurrences of believed chalcopyrite mineralization in 10 of the programs first 13 holes, the company is pleased to report that at least 15 of the campaigns 21 holes encountered mineralization interpreted to be chalcopyrite over various lengths and in various visually estimated abundances with 3 holes intersecting intervals of semi-massive pyrite over drilled lengths between 0.2m and 2.2m. Highlights are described in further detail below.

Hole 25-CC-012 intersected intermittent intervals of interpreted chalcopyrite in association with other sulphide minerals between 10m and 80m downhole. Mineralized intervals range between 0.3m and 3.1m in drilled length and contain interpreted chalcopyrite in visually estimated model abundances of 0.1% (trace) to 2%. The holes most significant interval with respect to chalcopyrite accumulation, 23.6m to 26.0m (2.4m length) contained a visually estimated modal abundance of wispy chalcopyrite of 2%.

Hole 25-CC-013 intersected intermittent intervals of interpreted chalcopyrite in association with other sulphide minerals between 11.5m and 80m downhole. Mineralized intervals range between 0.8m to 12m in drilled length and contain interpreted chalcopyrite in visually estimated modal abundances of 0.1% (trace) to 1%. The holes most significant interval, with respect to chalcopyrite accumulation, 40.3m to 50.7m (10.4m length) contained blebby chalcopyrite a visually estimated modal abundance of 1%.

Hole 25-CC-014 intersected intermittent intervals of interpreted chalcopyrite in association with other sulphide minerals between 4.0m and 88.0m downhole. Mineralized intervals range between 0.3m to 7.4m in drilled length and contain interpreted chalcopyrite in visually estimated modal abundances of 0.1% (trace) to 15%. The holes most significant interval, with respect to chalcopyrite accumulation, 43.9m to 46.2m (2.3m length) contained a visually estimated modal abundance of banded chalcopyrite of 15% and occurs with pyrite in visually estimated modal abundances of 10%.

Hole 25-CC-015 intersected intermittent intervals of interpreted chalcopyrite in association with other sulphide minerals between 15.7m and 119.2m downhole. Mineralized intervals range between 0.3m to 19.8m in drilled length and contain interpreted chalcopyrite in visually estimated modal abundances of 0.1% (trace) to1.0%. The holes most significant interval, with respect to chalcopyrite accumulation, 64.2m to 78.7m (14.5m length) contained a visually estimated modal abundance of blebby chalcopyrite of 1.0.

Hole 25-CC-017 encountered 3 intervals of semi-massive to massive pyrite between 52.3m and m downhole. These intervals all contain semi-massive pyrite in visually estimated modal abundances of 30-75% with 0.1%(trace) to 0.5% Chalcopyrite.

Figure 1. Hole 25-CC-017 from 52.25m to 68.4m. Intervals of Semi-Massive pyrite mineralization are outlined in red.

Similarly, hole 25-CC-018 encountered two intervals of semi-massive pyrite 60% pyrite from 122.7m to 123m and 80% pyrite from 124m to 124.3m, both intervals 0.3m in drilled length, and hole 25-CC-019 encountered semi-massive pyrite in visually estimated modal abundances of 40% between 58.2m and 59m downhole, 0.8m drilled length.

Hole 25-CC-016, also intersected mineralization believed to be chalcopyrite but not in estimated abundances or drilled lengths deemed to be significant at this time.

Additional information pertaining to holes 25-CC-020 and 25-CC-021 will be provided after detailed logging.

It is important to note that these are preliminary observations, and the true grade and thickness of the mineralization will only be determined once assay results are received. Samples of mineralized intervals are being prepared for geochemical analysis by SGS, an accredited laboratory, and the Company expects to receive results within four weeks.

Table 1 details drillhole collar information. Collar coordinates may be planned, or spot locations as final location survey are not complete for all holes.

Hole ID Easting Northing Dip Azimuth Length 25-CC-001 556656.4 5529618.4 -45 120 194 25-CC-002 556657.4 5529617.8 -70 120 119 25-CC-003 556699.7 5529594.9 -50 120 74 25-CC-004 556701.7 5529593.3 -70 120 110 25-CC-005 556722.0 5529693.2 -50 120 110 25-CC-006 556724.2 5529691.8 -70 120 95 25-CC-007 556700.7 5529594.6 -50 300 170 25-CC-008 556740.3 5529676.7 -50 120 74 25-CC-009 556739.7 5529677.1 -70 120 69.5 25-CC-010 556707.7 5529653.2 -50 120 89 25-CC-011 556707.7 5529652.5 -70 120 62 25-CC-012 556623 5529588 -50 120 125 25-CC-013 556623 5529588 -70 120 125 25-CC-014 556625.2 5529592.9 -50 120 152 25-CC-015 556626 5529588.4 -70 120 101 25-CC-016 556595.7 5529546.9 -50 120 140 25-CC-017 556598.1 5529546.3 -50 120 62 25-CC-018 556651 5529523 -70 120 134 25-CC-019 556529.1 5529486.9 -60 120 152 25-CC-020 556528.6 5529487.4 -50 120 71 25-CC-021 556528.9 5529487.1 -70 120 80

Drill Hole Targeting

Multiple drill holes at Copper Creek recently targeted areas of known mineralization identified in 2022 Rab drilling as well as previously mapped structures displaying hydrothermal alteration and anomalous base and precious metal geochemistry from soil and rock sampling. At the Dorset claim, drill targets are concentrated in areas where the Company intersected significant gold results during its 2022 RAB drilling campaign detailed the companys September 19, 2023 news release. The drill program is being conducted under the supervision of David Murray, P. Geo, president of Resourceful Geosciences. The Company will provide an update early next week.

The Dorset project is prospective for additional gold occurrences and the 2025 program will be designed to test some of the priority zones within a prominent 1 x 2 km gold-in-soil anomaly delineated by Leocor in 2022.

Figure 1: Location of the Baie Verte Project, NW Newfoundland

For more information regarding Leocors Baie Verte Project, including detailed figures, assessment details, and historic data, please visit our website.

Qualified Person

David Murray, P.Geo., Principal Consultant at Resourceful Geoscience Solutions Inc., an Independent Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Minerals Projects, has reviewed and approved the technical information presented herein.

About Leocor Mining Inc. (Formerly Leocor Gold Inc.)

Leocor Mining Inc. is a British Columbia-based resource company involved in the acquisition and exploration of precious metal projects, with a current focus in Atlantic Canada. Leocor, through outright ownership and earn-in agreements, currently controls several gold-copper projects in prime exploration ground located within the prolific Baie Verte Mining District. Leocors Bae Verte portfolio includes the Dorset, Dorset Extension, Copper Creek and Five Mile Brook projects, creating a contiguous nearly 2,000-hectare exploration corridor. The Company also controls district scale land packages in North Central Newfoundland, known as Roberts Arm, Hodges Hill, and Leamington, (collectively Western Exploits) representing over 144,000 hectares (1,440 square kilometers) of prospective exploration ground. For more information, sign up for news alerts, watch our corporate video, or view our presentation at our website.

Contact Information

Leocor Mining Inc.

Alex Klenman, Chief Executive Officer

Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Telephone : (604) 970-4330

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. Such information includes, without limitation, information regarding the terms and conditions of the Option. Although Leocor believes that such information is reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.

Forward looking information is typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Leocor cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by Leocor is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to: the agreement of the parties to proceed with the proposed transaction on the terms set out in the Option Agreements or at all; Leocor's ability to exercise the Options; the state of the financial markets for Leocor's securities; the state of the natural resources sector in the event the Option, or any of them, are completed; recent market volatility; circumstances related to COVID-19; Leocor's ability to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies; and other risks and factors that Leocor is unaware of at this time. The reader is referred to Leocor's initial public offering prospectus for a more complete discussion of applicable risk factors and their potential effects, copies of which may be accessed through Leocors issuer page on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release. Leocor disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
VANCOUVER, BC  TheNewswire - March 3, 2025  Giant Mining Corp. (CSE: BFG | OTC: BFGFF | FWB: YW5) (Giant Mining or the Company) is pleased to announce it has completed initial drill targeting in conjunction with Exploration Technologies Inc. (ExploreTech) for the upcoming Phase One Drill Program. In partnership with the Giant Mining technical team, ExploreTech used its Engine AI and cloud computing platform to generate optimized drill plans and targets which focus on breccia pipes and large low-resistivity anomalies. See About section for additional details on the ExploreTech methodology.

After numerous, detailed discussions with the Majuba team, we initiated a compute process that took approximately one full week of 24/7 cloud computation. Serious computing power went into processing the wealth of data at Majuba, and we are very satisfied with the results. We look forward to continuing our collaboration over the next months, with such a talented team at Giant Mining, and on the highly promising Majuba Mountain area., said Tyler Hall, President of Exploration Technologies.

We are thrilled with the results of ExploreTechs initial modeling. Preparations are beginning now for the 2025 exploration and development drilling season at Majuba Hill. With over 100 Drill holes to date and over 80,000 feet of drilling at the Majuba Hill Copper-Silver-Gold deposit we truly believe 2025 will be the year we take the project to the next level., said David Greenway, President and CEO of Giant Mining Corp.

ExploreTech will be attending Giant Mining Corp's Booth #3007 at PDAC on Monday, March 3rd, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM EST.

The results provide insight into the large copper target generated by the last 4 years of exploration by the Company. The 2025 Phase 1 drill program will consist of 4 drill holes for a total of 4,400 feet of drilling of 1,100 feet (335 meters) per hole. The Company has allowed for drilling to continue up to 1,600 feet (487 meters) per hole at the technical teams discretion. The drilling will follow up hole MHB-30 (MHB-30) drilled in 2024 which encountered high-grade copper-silver mineralization. ExploreTech took into consideration the proposed 2025 drilling campaigns along with previous exploration data. This data consists of over 80 previous drill holes and over 83,000 feet of drilling, along with the results of previous extensive surface sampling, geological mapping, geophysics, underground sampling, rigorous studies, and analysis.

Figure 1. 3D Model of Majuba Hill, showing surface geological map and road access.

About Exploration Technologies Inc. (ExploreTech)

ExploreTech's AI approach is specifically designed to combine surface geology and drilling results with computationally intensive remodeling of existing geophysical datasets to optimize targeting of covered targets. The process quickly generates thousands of solutions that cluster on the best fits between the geological and geophysical data and then generates drillhole trajectories designed to cut those clusters most effectively.

ExploreTech first combines the geological concept with AI geophysical simulation to identify and locate where the source of a geophysical anomaly actually lies. This is done by testing thousands of possible explanations (models) for anomalies measured at the surface and selecting only those that closely match real-world geophysics.

The selected models of the combined geology and geophysics cluster around the most likely location of the anomaly. The program then evaluates the clusters in three dimensions to determine the optimal drilling trajectory to pierce as many of the target anomalies as possible. The entire process can be rerun as drill results for specific targets, or additional geophysical surveying, adds new information allowing improved vectoring to the best mineralized parts of a given ore system. This use of AI to reveal and reinforce target anomalies in existing geophysical datasets is a significant new exploration tool and has already been applied in several cases, some are viewable at ExploreTech's website www.exploretech.ai.

About PDAC

The Worlds Premier Mineral Exploration & Mining Convention is the leading convention for people, governments, companies, and organizations connected to mineral exploration. In addition to meeting more than 1,100 exhibitors, 2,500 investors and 26,000 attendees in person in 2024, participants could also attend programming, courses and networking events. The annual convention is held in Toronto, Canada. It has grown in size, stature and influence since it began in 1932 and today is the event of choice for the worlds mineral industry. For more information and/or to register for the conference please visit: https://www.pdac.ca/convention.

Figure 2. Drilling Equipment on Site during previous drill campaigns

Some of Majuba Hills critically important characteristics are as follows:

Location: Nevada  The #1 mining jurisdiction on the planet according to the Fraser Institute

Project Size: 9,684 Acres

Infrastructure: The Majuba Hill property is 113 road km (70 miles) southwest of Winnemucca, Nevada, and 251 km (156 miles) northeast of Reno. Access is by well-maintained county roads from the Imlay, Nevada exit on U.S. Interstate 80, and traveling westward 23 miles. People, Roads, Power and Water are the basic elements when considering infrastructure and Majuba Hill already has a solid infrastructure foundation for building a large facility which will provide significant savings compared to more remote projects.

History: Historical Producer

Drilling: 82,614 feet of drilling to date. Rough replacement value of drilling USD $10.4 Million in development costs.

Mineralization: The project shows indications of a potentially large Cu  Ag +/- Au mineralized body with many features in common with both large porphyry copper, silver, and gold projects.

Expandability: The IP survey, deep drilling, and step-out drilling indicate significant expansion potential, with mineralization open in all directions.

Fully Financed: Secured funding for 2025 Drilling Campaign

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by E.L. Buster Hunsaker III, CPG 8137, a non-independent consulting geologist who is a Qualified Person as such term is defined under National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43- 101).

About Giant Mining Corp.

Giant Mining Corp. is focused on identifying, acquiring, and advancing late-stage copper and copper/silver/gold projects to meet the growing global demand for critical metals. This demand is driven by initiatives like the Green New Deal in the United States and similar climate-focused programs worldwide, which require substantial amounts of copper, silver, and gold for electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure, and the modernization of clean and affordable energy systems.

The Companys flagship asset is the Majuba Hill Copper, Silver, and Gold District, located 156 miles (251 km) from Reno, Nevada. Majuba Hill is situated in a mining-friendly jurisdiction with supportive regulations and has the potential to become one of the next major copper deposits, critical for meeting the increasing need for this red metal.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

On Behalf of the Board of Giant Mining Corp.

David Greenway

David C. Greenway

President & CEO

For further information, please contact:

E: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

P: 1 (236) 788-0643

VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS

www.giantminingcorp.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forwardlooking information. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by statements herein, and therefore these statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. All forwardlooking statements are based on the Companys current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to it as well as other factors. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forwardlooking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified by the Company in its public securities filings, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forwardlooking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Elemental Altus Royalties Corp. (TSXV: ELE) (OTCQX: ELEMF) ("Elemental Altus" or the "Company") forecasts record Gold Equivalent Ounces ("GEO") and adjusted revenue for 2025, with an expected 50% increase in adjusted revenue to US$32 million at the mid-point of guidance. This comes after the Company delivered record preliminary annual revenue and preliminary adjusted revenue of approximately US$16.3 million and US$21.6 million respectively for 2024. 2024 preliminary adjusted revenue marks a 21% increase from 2023 and underscores the Company's achievement of seven consecutive years of record revenue.

Adjusted revenue guidance for 2025 does not include up to US$15 million in additional payments expected from royalty milestones, buybacks and previous agreements.

In addition, the Company announces the appointment of Sandeep Singh to the board as an independent non-executive director.

Preliminary 2024 Results

Record preliminary adjusted 2024 revenue of US$21.6 million (+21% vs 2023) comprised of: US$16.3 million attributable royalty revenue; and US$5.3 million attributable revenue 1 from the Caserones copper mine

Record preliminary adjusted Q4 revenue of US$6.8 million (+21% vs Q4 2023) comprised of: US$5.5 million attributable royalty revenue; and US$1.3 million attributable revenue 1 from the Caserones copper mine

Preliminary adjusted 2024 revenue is based on sales volume of approximately 8,990 attributable GEOs, at the low end of the Company's updated guidance due to outperformance of the gold price relative to copper and delayed copper concentrate shipments from Caserones that are expected to be reflected in Q1 2025

2025 Outlook

Elemental Altus expects a record 11,600 - 13,200 GEOs in 2025, translating to record adjusted revenue of US$30.1 million to US$34.3 million, based on a gold price of US$2,600/oz and a copper price of US$4.00/lb

This represents a 50% year-on-year increase in adjusted revenue at the mid-point of guidance

Production is anticipated to be weighted towards the first half of the year, driven by first gold sales at the Korali-Sud royalty and Caserones shipments delayed from Q4 2024 into Q1 2025

Up to US$15 million in one-off payments, with over US$10 million expected in the first half of the year

2025 guidance is based on public forecasts from operators and the Company's internal assessments

Frederick Bell, CEO of Elemental Altus, commented: "We are pleased to announce another record year for Elemental Altus, with preliminary adjusted revenue reaching US$21.6 million in 2024 - marking our seventh consecutive year of revenue growth. This 21% increase over 2023 was achieved despite maiden revenue from the Korali-Sud royalty shifting into Q1 2025.

Looking ahead, the Company is now debt-free, having repaid US$30 million over the past twelve months. With lower costs driving significant margin expansion and record adjusted revenue, Elemental Altus is well-positioned for continued growth. The Company also stands to benefit from up to US$15 million in additional portfolio payments and has access to an enhanced US$50 million credit facility, providing the strongest balance sheet in the Company's history."

Director Appointment

Elemental Altus is pleased to welcome Sandeep Singh to the Board effective immediately. Mr. Singh brings extensive experience in the mining and royalty sector, including his tenure as President and CEO of Osisko Gold Royalties, where he successfully led its strategic turnaround. His expertise and familiarity with the royalty space and mining capital markets will be strong assets to the Company going forwards.

Robert Milroy has stepped down from the Board of Directors effective today, as previously announced. The Company extends its gratitude to Mr. Milroy for his valuable contributions over many years with the Company.

John Robins, Chair of the Board, commented:

"We are delighted to welcome someone of Sandeep's calibre and experience to the Board. His extensive experience across the mining sector and royalty space will be invaluable as we look to the next stage of the Company's growth. I would also like to thank Robert for his significant contributions over many years in getting the Company to this stage and we wish him all the best in retirement."

Sandeep Singh

Sandeep Singh is currently President and CEO of Western Copper and Gold. Prior to this, he was President and CEO of Osisko Gold Royalties and spent 15 years as an investment banker specializing in the North American metals and mining sector. He has advised numerous mining companies on financing alternatives and strategic matters and has been involved in some of the most complex and value-enhancing M&A transactions in the sector. Mr. Singh holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree from Concordia University and an MBA from Oxford University.

Options and RSU Grant

The Company has granted 570,000 restricted share units (each "RSU") and 4,455,866 stock options to directors, officers, employees, and consultants of the Company. The RSUs vest in equal instalments over twelve, twenty-four, and thirty-six months. Each vested RSU will entitle the holder to receive one common share in the capital of the Company or the equivalent cash value thereof at the deemed price of C$1.22 per common share of the Company. The RSUs were granted on February 27, 2025 and will fully vest on February 27, 2028. The stock options are exercisable for a period of 5 years from the date of the grant at an exercise price of C$1.26 per Common Share. The stock options vest in four equal instalments on the date of grant, and on the 6 month, 12 month, and 18 month anniversary thereof. The stock options were granted on February 27, 2025 and will expire on February 27, 2030.

The stock options have been granted to directors, officers, employees, and consultants of the Company under the terms of the Company's stock option and compensation share plan and are subject to the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

TSXV: ELE | OTCQX: ELEMF | ISIN: CA28619K1093 | CUSIP: 28619K109

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange (TSX-V) nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release. The appointment of the new director to the Board is subject to the approval of the TSX-V.

About Elemental Altus Royalties Corp.

Elemental Altus is an income generating precious metals royalty company with 10 producing royalties and a diversified portfolio of pre-production and discovery stage assets. The Company is focused on acquiring uncapped royalties and streams over producing, or near-producing, mines operated by established counterparties. The vision of Elemental Altus is to build a global gold royalty company, offering investors superior exposure to gold with reduced risk and a strong growth profile.

Qualified Person

Richard Evans, FAusIMM, is Senior Vice President Technical for Elemental Altus, and a qualified person under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release.

Notes

1) Royalty revenue is received at zero cost. Distributions from associates related to Elemental Altus' effective royalty on Caserones are received net of Chilean taxes and have no other costs.

The preliminary adjusted revenue is based on sales volume of approximately 8,990 attributable GEOs from royalty contracts in 2024. This is in line with the lower end of the Company's guidance of 9,000 - 9,500 GEOs. GEO numbers were impacted by significant outperformance of the gold price relative to copper-based revenue, and delayed Caserones copper shipments which are expected to be realised in Q1 2025. These unaudited results should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, as and when released.

1. Non-IFRS Measures

The Company has included certain performance measures which are non-IFRS and are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These non-IFRS measures do not have any standard meaning under IFRS and other companies may calculate measures differently.

Adjusted Revenue

Adjusted revenue is a non-IFRS financial measure, which is defined as including gross royalty revenue from associated entities holding royalty interests related to Elemental Altus' effective royalty on the Caserones copper mine. Management uses adjusted revenue to evaluate the underlying operating performance of the Company for the reporting periods presented, to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating results, and to supplement information in its financial statements. Management believes that in addition to measures prepared in accordance with IFRS such as revenue, investors may use adjusted revenue to evaluate the results of the underlying business, particularly as the adjusted revenue may not typically be included in operating results. Management believes that adjusted revenue is a useful measure of the Company performance because it adjusts for items which management believes reflect the Company's core operating results from period to period. Adjusted revenue is intended to provide additional information to investors and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. It does not have any standardized meaning under IFRS and may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

Gold Equivalent Ounces

Elemental Altus' adjusted royalty, streaming, and other revenue is converted to an attributable gold equivalent ounce, or GEO, basis by dividing the royalty and other revenue from associates in a period by the average gold price for the same respective period. The presentation of this non-IFRS measure is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Other companies may calculate these non-IFRS measures differently. The production forecast was derived using information that is available in the public domain as at the date hereof, which included guidance and estimates prepared and issued by management of the operators of the mining operations in which Elemental Altus holds an interest. The production forecast is sensitive to the performance and operating status of the underlying mines. None of the information has been independently verified by Elemental Altus and may be subject to uncertainty. There can be no assurance that such information is complete or accurate.

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" and certain "forward-looking information" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-Looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may", "will", "should", "expect", "intend", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "plans" or similar terminology (including negative and grammatical variations thereof).

Forward-Looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to forecasts of revenue and adjusted revenue for 2025, the timing for shipments from Caserones, the Company's ability to deliver an increased revenue profile with a lower cost of capital, the future growth, development and focus of the Company, and the acquisition of new royalties and streams. Forward-Looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies.

Forward-Looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Elemental Altus to control or predict, that may cause Elemental Altus' actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Elemental Altus will receive royalties, risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainties created by the war in Ukraine and hostilities in the Middle-East; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Elemental Altus' expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labour disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of important factors which could cause actual results to differ from forward-looking statements, refer to the annual information form of Elemental Altus for the year ended December 31, 2023. Elemental Altus undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements and information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking statements and information represents management's best judgment based on information currently available. No forward-looking statement or information can be guaranteed, and actual future results may vary materially. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.
Historical Drilling up to 7.0m Grading 51.52g/t (1.50 oz/ton) Gold

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 /Earthwise Minerals Corp. (CSE:WISE) & (FSE:966) ("Earthwise" or the "Company") and Eagle Plains Resources Ltd. (TSXV:EPL) ("EPL" or "Eagle Plains") are pleased to announce that further to their respective news releases dated February 10, 2025, the parties have entered into an option agreement (the "Option") dated February 26, 2025, pursuant to which Earthwise has been granted the exclusive right to acquire up to an 80% interest in Eagle Plains' wholly-owned Iron Range Gold Project ("the Project").

Drilling at Iron Range in 2010 resulted in the discovery of the Talon Zone, where drill-hole IR10-010 intersected 2 intervals of strong and continuous mineralization including 14.0m grading 5.1g/t gold, 1.86% lead, 2.1% Zinc, 75.3g/t silver and 7.1m grading 8.13g/t gold, 2.84% lead, 3.07% zinc, 86.6g/t silver (Eagle Plains news release December 21st, 2010). Previous drilling 10km north of the Talon Zone in 2008 by Eagle Plains intersected gold mineralization in drill-hole IR08006 which assayed 7.0m grading 51.52g/t (1.50 oz/ton) gold (Eagle Plains news release dated April 20th, 2009).

The 21,437ha Iron Range Project is considered by management of both Eagle Plains and Earthwise to hold excellent potential for the presence of structurally controlled gold-silver mineralization, iron-oxide copper-gold ("IOCG") and Sullivan-style lead-zinc-silver sedimentary-exhalative ("sedex") mineralization. The property is owned 100% by Eagle Plains, with a portion of the property subject to an underlying 1.0% Net Smelter Royalty held by a third party.

To exercise the Option, Earthwise must make a series of cash payments and share issuances to Eagle Plains and fund exploration expenditures on the Project. These payments, share issuance and expenditures are separated into two phases, with the First Option entitling the Company to acquire a 70% interest in the Project by paying CA$250,000, issuing an aggregate of 1,500,000 common shares to EPL and funding CA$4,000,000 in exploration expenditures on the Project by over a four-year term, including $200,000 in expenditures in 2025. Pursuant to the Second Option (if elected by Earthwise), the Company may acquire an additional 10% interest in the Project (for an 80% total interest) by notifying Eagle Plains of its intent to increase its interest to 80%, making an additional one-time payment of CDN$ 1,000,000 cash and completing a bankable feasibility study on the Property prior to the eight anniversary of the Option.

If either the First Option or the Second Option is exercised, a 2% smelter returns royalty will be granted to the Eagle Plains over the entire property, 1% of which may be repurchased for CA$1,500,000.

Eagle Plains will serve as Operator under the terms of Option and will reserve the right to use TerraLogic Exploration Inc. as geoscience consultant. Following the exercise of either the First Option or the Second Option, Earthwise and Eagle Plains shall then form a 70/30 or 80/20 joint venture ("JV") to further explore and develop the Property.

About the Iron Range Project https://earthwiseminerals.com/iron-range-project/

Iron Range Project Summary

The 21,437ha Iron Range Project located near Creston, BC, is owned 100% by Eagle Plains, subject to a 1% NSR on a portion of the claim group. A well-developed transportation and power corridor transects the southern part of the property, including a high-pressure gas pipeline and a high-voltage hydro-electric line, both of which follow the CPR mainline and Highway 3. The rail line provides efficient access to the Teck smelter in Trail, B.C. The project is fully permitted with a Multi-Year Area Based (MYAB) permit in place issued by the BC Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals that includes provisions for geophysical work, mechanical trenching, access trail construction and diamond drilling.

The Iron Range property covers an extensive area approximately 10km x 32km which overlies the regional Iron Range Fault System ("IRFS"). Prior to the acquisition by Eagle Plains in 2001, the property had seen little systematic exploration for other than iron resources known to exist on the property since the late 1800s. Since 2001, Eagle Plains and its partners have completed 21,593m of diamond-drilling in 87 holes, collected 2482 line-km of airborne and surface geophysical data and analysed 10,053 soil geochemical samples, 495 rock samples and 6955 drill core samples.

Earthwise to Extend Warrants

Earthwise announces that, effective March 3, 2025, has amended the terms of the 1,627,500 warrants (the "Warrants") issued in connection with the Company's private placement completed in March of 2023. The expiry date of the Warrants will be extended from March 20, 2025 to March 20, 2027.

Two of the directors of the Company beneficially own an aggregate of 375,000 Warrants and, accordingly, the extension of their Warrants is considered to be a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). However, the amendment will be exempt from the valuation requirement of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.5(b) as the Company's shares are not listed on specified markets and from the minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, in that the fair market value of the consideration for the amendment to the Warrants held by directors of the Company does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

Qualified Person

Technical information in this News Release has been reviewed and approved by C.C. Downie, P.Geo., a director and officer of Eagle Plains, hereby identified as the "Qualified Person" under N.I. 43-101.

About Earthwise Minerals

Based in Vancouver, B.C., Earthwise is a junior stage exploration company with a focus across North America. Earthwise has an Option Agreement to earn up to 80% in the fully permitted Iron Range Gold Project located near Creston, B.C.

For more information, review the Company's filings available at www.sedarplus.ca.

EARTHWISE MINERALS CORP.,

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Mark Luchinski"

Contact Information:

Mark Luchinski

Chief Executive Officer, Director

Telephone: (604) 506-6201

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Forward-Looking Statements



This news release includes statements that constitute "forward-looking information" as defined under Canadian securities laws ("forward-looking statements") including, without limitation, statements respecting the Offering and the intended use of proceeds therefrom. Statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various degrees of risk. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current views with respect to possible future events and conditions and, by their nature, are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and actual outcomes may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Additional information regarding the various risks and uncertainties facing the Company are described in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's annual management's discussion and analysis and other continuous disclosure documents filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

For more information, please contact Mark Luchinski, Chief Executive Officer and Director, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (604) 506-6201.
Vancouver, British Columbia  TheNewswire - March 3, 2025: Headwater Gold Inc. (CSE: HWG) (OTCQB: HWAUF) (the "Company" or "Headwater") is pleased to announce it has acquired a 100% interest in the Jake Creek epithermal gold project along the Northern Nevada Rift gold trend in Nevada. The project hosts a known epithermal gold system identified by historical drilling, with minimal modern exploration and remains open for further discovery.

Highlights:

High-Grade Potential: Historic drilling at Jake Creek identified a broad zone of strongly anomalous gold mineralization with localized high-grade epithermal gold mineralization, including 11.3 g/t Au over 1.52 metres (m) within a broader 46.73 m interval grading 0.98 g/t Au;

Highly Endowed Gold Belt: The Jake Creek project lies along the prolific Northern Nevada Rift, home to multiple epithermal gold deposits, including the nearby Midas Mine, and located just 8 km east of the Nevada Gold Mines Turquoise Ridge Complex; and

Exploration Upside: Jake Creek is a relatively under-explored land package in Nevada despite proximity to multiple world-class mines and confirmed epithermal mineralization on the property.

Figure 1: District-scale map showing the proximity of the Jake Creek project to the Turquoise Ridge Complex and simplified regional geology along the Northern Nevada Rift.

Caleb Stroup, the President and CEO of the Company, states: "The acquisition of the Jake Creek project represents a compelling addition to our portfolio of high-quality epithermal gold projects in Northern Nevada. Historic drilling1 on the project, originally targeting Carlin-type gold, encountered a significant blind high-grade epithermal gold system that was never adequately followed up. With limited drilling across the broader land position and no focused exploration for potential feeder structures, we see a clear opportunity to leverage our expertise and advance the project toward discovery. An equally compelling aspect of Jake Creek is its location in the heart of one of Nevadas most productive gold belts. The project sits just 24 km west of Hecla Mining Companys Midas Mine and only 8 km east of the world-class Turquoise Ridge Complex, which has produced over 28 million ounces of gold to date. The fertility of this region, combined with known high-grade gold mineralization on the property and lack of systematic follow-up, makes Jake Creek an exciting target for future exploration.

About the Jake Creek project

The Jake Creek project consists of 189 unpatented lode mining claims on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land in Humboldt County, Nevada, located 65 km northwest of Winnemucca along well-maintained roads. Historic drilling by Evolving Gold Corp. in 2010-2011 (13 reverse circulation holes) intersected widespread epithermal mineralization at the Tertiary unconformity, with notable intercepts1 such as 11.3 g/t Au over 1.52 m within 45.72 m grading 0.96 g/t Au in hole JC-005. This mineralization, associated with silicification, clay alteration, and banded quartz veining, suggests a robust low-sulfidation epithermal system with potential high-grade feeder zones at depth.

Figure 2: Historic photo from Evolving Golds 2010-2011 drilling campaign at Jake Creek.

The project covers 3,700 acres on the western margin of the Northern Nevada Rifta north-northwest trending structural corridor known for hosting significant precious metal mineralizationwithin the western foothills of the Snowstorm Mountains. The geology is dominated by mid-Miocene bimodal volcanic rocks, including rhyolite to dacite flows and welded tuffs, unconformably overlying Paleozoic sedimentary rocks at depths of 50 to 300 metres. North-northwest and east-northeast trending faults, likely related to the rifts 14-16 Ma extension, dissect the property and may control mineralization. Gold is associated with silicification, clay alteration, and quartz veining, indicative of a low-sulfidation epithermal system with potential for high-grade feeder zones at depth (Figure 5). Initial hyperspectral analysis of the historic reverse circulation (RC) cuttings by previous operator Renaissance Gold shows a strong association between illite and buddingtonite alteration and gold mineralization, further demonstrating the epithermal nature mineralization at Jake Creek.

Table 1: Select Historical Results from Evolving Golds 2010-2011 Drilling1,3 Hole ID Type From To Interval Au Az Inc TD (m) (m) (m) (g/t) (m) JC-002 RC 245.37 295.66 50.29 0.74 270 -60 310.9 including RC 277.37 295.66 18.29 1.20 JC-005 RC 224.03 256.04 45.73 0.98 0 -90 499.88 including RC 236.22 237.75 1.53 11.30 JC-006 RC 217.93 242.32 56.39 0.41 90 -60 313.95 including RC 231.65 236.22 4.57 1.36 JC-008 RC 248.42 281.94 33.52 0.56 90 -60 335.28 including RC 275.85 280.42 4.57 1.28 JC-010 RC 283.47 294.14 10.67 0.27 100 -45 365.76 JC-011 RC 179.83 193.55 13.72 0.39 95 -50 268.23 including RC 179.83 188.98 9.15 0.50 JC-012 RC 161.55 167.64 6.09 0.34 66 -65 317 and RC 172.21 178.31 6.10 0.37 JC-013 RC 321.57 338.33 16.76 0.61 90 -60 420.63 including RC 323.09 324.62 1.53 3.10

3Reported grades were calculated using a 0.2 g/t cut-off grade for primary intervals. Intervals correspond to downhole thickness. Insufficient information is available to determine true thickness of mineralized intervals. RC signifies reverse circulation drilling.

Exploration History

Exploration at Jake Creek has historically focused on Carlin-type gold targets, driven by its proximity to the Twin Creeks Mine just 8 km to the west (20 Moz Au M&I with 23 Moz Au past production2). Early exploration efforts from the late 1980s to early 1990s by various operators targeted shallow Carlin-style deposits with limited success. Evolving Gold Corp. began exploring the area in the mid-2000s with a mercury soil vapor survey, identifying anomalies that led to staking in 2007. Their 2010-2011 campaign included 13 RC drill holes totaling approximately 4,000 metres (Figure 3). The recognition of significant gold mineralization hosted in the Tertiary volcanic rocks shifted focus to a low-sulfidation epithermal model, but systematic follow-up targeting feeder structures was not pursued. Post-2011, exploration stalled except for a 2014 soil sampling program by Ginguro Exploration Inc. Headwater has acquired a substantial historical dataset with the project, including surface geochemistry (1,006 ionic leach samples), geophysics (IP/resistivity, gravity, magnetics), and digitized drill logs and assays.

Figure 3: Project-scale simplified geological map of the Jake Creek project, showing drill hole locations symbolized by grade-thickness.

Figure 4: Interpretive cross-section of the Jake Creek epithermal system, illustrating known mineralization and potential feeder zones at depth.

Future Exploration Plans:

Headwater plans to initiate exploration at Jake Creek in 2025, prioritizing geological mapping and low-cost gravity geophysics (expanding and infilling existing data) to refine the structural and geological framework. Work will also be initiated to verify historical exploration results and hyperspectral analysis of existing RC chips and surface samples will be conducted to better characterize the alteration footprint. These efforts will be the foundation of a comprehensive 3D geological model that will guide additional work to prioritize drill targets. The Company aims to develop and test high-grade epithermal feeder targets beneath or adjacent to known mineralization.

Acquisition Terms:

Headwater acquired a 100% interest in the Jake Creek project from an arms length party. Under the terms of the agreement, Headwater paid $19,600 for the 2025 BLM claim maintenance fees, securing full ownership of 98 unpatented mining claims owned by the vendor. The acquisition is subject to a retained 1.0% net smelter return (NSR) royalty, with an option for Headwater to buy down half of the NSR (0.5%) for US$1,000,000 at any time prior to commercial production, reducing the royalty to 0.5%. Subsequent to the agreement, Headwater has located 81 additional unpatented mining claims, 71 of which are subject to the NSR pursuant to the Area of Interest provision in the agreement.

About Headwater Gold:

Headwater Gold Inc. (CSE: HWG, OTCQB: HWAUF) is a technically driven mineral exploration company focused on the exploration and discovery of high-grade precious metal deposits in the Western USA. Headwater is aggressively exploring one of the most well-endowed and mining-friendly jurisdictions in the world with a goal of making world-class precious metal discoveries. Headwater has a large portfolio of epithermal vein exploration projects and a technical team of experienced geologists with diverse capital markets, junior and major mining company backgrounds. The Company is systematically drill testing several projects in Nevada and in August 2022 and May 2023 announced significant transactions with Newmont where it acquired a 9.9% strategic equity interest in the Company and entered into earn-in agreements on several of Headwaters projects, including Spring Peak and Lodestar. In September of 2024, Centerra Gold Inc. acquired a strategic 9.9% interest in the Company through a non-brokered private placement at a premium to market.

Headwater is part of the NewQuest Capital Group which is a discovery-driven investment enterprise that builds value through the incubation and financing of mineral projects and companies. Further information about NewQuest can be found on the company website at www.nqcapitalgroup.com.

For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.headwatergold.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Caleb Stroup

President and CEO

+1 (775) 409-3197

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

For further information, please contact:

Brennan Zerb

Investor Relations Manager

+1 (778) 867-5016

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Qualified Person:

The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Scott Close, P.Geo (158157), a Qualified Person (QP) as defined in National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

1Historical drill intercepts included in this release were sourced from primary historical Evolving Gold Corp. data and NI43-101 Technical Report on the Jake Creek Gold Project Humboldt County, Nevada, June 19, 2012, Effective Date: June 19, 2012, prepared for Evolving Gold Corp., 37 p. Drill results and surface samples have not been independently verified by Headwater and are treated by the Company as historical in nature and not current or NI 43-101 compliant.

2NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Turquoise Ridge Complex Humboldt County, Nevada, USA, March 15, 2024, Effective Date: December 31, 2023, prepared for Barrick Gold Corporation, 304 p.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding future capital expenditures, exploration activities and the specifications, targets, results, analyses, interpretations, benefits, costs and timing of them, Newmonts anticipated funding of the earn-in projects and the timing thereof, and the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Often, but not always, forward looking information can be identified by words such as pro forma, plans, expects, may, should, budget, scheduled, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, believes, potential or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, risks related to the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company, including the Companys exploration plans and the proposed expenditures for exploration work thereon, the ability of the Company to obtain sufficient financing to fund its business activities and plans, the risk that Newmont will not elect to obtain any additional interest in the earn-in projects in excess of the minimum commitment, the ability of the Company to obtain the required permits, changes in laws, regulations and policies affecting mining operations, the Companys limited operating history, currency fluctuations, title disputes or claims, environmental issues and liabilities, as well as those factors discussed under the heading Risk Factors in the Companys prospectus dated May 26, 2021 and other filings of the Company with the Canadian Securities Authorities, copies of which can be found under the Companys profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements, except as otherwise required by law.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Quimbaya Gold Inc. (CSE: QIM) (OTCQB: QIMGF) (FSE: K05) ("Quimbaya Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release on August 1, 2024 announcing the entering into of drilling contract with Independence Drilling S.A., a first service order has concluded for an initial first 4000-meter drilling campaign (the "Initial Drilling Campaign") for its Tahami South property which is adjacent and on trend to Aris Mining's Segovia project. The contract has been assigned to Elawa S.A.S., an affiliated entity and mining division of Independence Drilling S.A., and concurrently the Company has also finalized an agreement with Palmer Assets Holding Corp. ("Palmer" and together with Elawa, the "Drilling Contractors") to provide consulting services for the Initial Drilling Campaign.

This milestone marks Quimbaya Gold's next step toward discovery. With this drilling program, the company aims to:

Unlock high-grade gold mineralization potential

Leverage local expertise with top-tier partners

Advance its flagship projects in Colombia's prolific Segovia district

The selected providers have established meaningful relationships with local communities and have contributed to the success of other Colombian exploration projects.

Under the terms of this initial work order, Quimbaya Gold has agreed to compensate the Drilling Contractors 100% in shares through the issuance of units at $0.30, with each Unit consisting of one common share at $0.30 and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $0.40 for a period of two years ("Consideration Units"). The total cost of the anticipated 4000-meter drilling campaign is expected to be approximately $1.2 million CAD. To align with project milestones, it is anticipated that the Consideration Units will be placed into an escrow account with Olympia Trust Company and will be released periodically as drilling services are completed throughout the campaign. The issuance of the Consideration Shares will be completed pursuant to available exemptions under applicable securities laws and subject to a statutory hold period of four months and a day from the respective date of issuance under Canadian National Instrument 45-102 - Resale Restrictions, and any other regulatory approvals, as required.

Alexandre P. Boivin, President and CEO of Quimbaya Gold, commented: "With drilling set to begin, we are poised to capitalize on our prime location adjacent to Aris Mining's world-class Segovia operation. This program is our first step toward unlocking the immense potential of Tahami South, where historical data indicates high-grade gold systems."

The Company anticipates providing ongoing updates to its stakeholders in the coming weeks and months. It is expected these updates will offer further insight into key developments, milestones, and results as they become available.

Market Making Agreement

In the Company's news release of February 26, 2025, the Company announced that it had engaged a market maker. The Company would like to clarify that this agreement is with Integral Wealth, and not Independent Trading Group.

Equity Compensation

The Company has granted 900,000 stock options ("Options") and 636,250 restricted share units ("RSUs") to directors, officers and advisors pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Omnibus Equity Compensation Plan. The Options will be exercisable at a price of $0.40 per share with an expiry of 2 years.

About Quimbaya Gold

Quimbaya is active in the exploration and acquisition of mining properties in the prolific mining districts of Colombia. Managed by an experienced team in the mining sector, Quimbaya is focused on three projects in the regions of Segovia (Tahami Project), Puerto Berrio (Berrio Project), and Abejorral (Maitamac Project), all located in Antioquia Department, Colombia.

Quimbaya Gold Inc.

Follow on X @quimbayagoldinc

Follow on LinkedIn @quimbayagold

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Follow on Facebook @quimbayagoldinc

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and/or forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. When used in this release, such words as "would", "will", "anticipates", believes", "estimates", "potential", "explores" "expects" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements reflect the current views of the Company with respect to future events, and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any expected future results, performance or achievement that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Certain information and statements contained in this news release constitute forward-looking statements, which reflects the Company's current expectations regarding future events, including but not limited: the initial depth of the Initial Drilling Campaign, if any; the successful completion of the Initial Drilling Campaign program and any future drilling under the initial contract, should they proceed, if at all; the ability of the Company to finance and execute its planned and future exploration activities; the quality of service and reputation of the Drilling Providers; the effectiveness of any potential drilling results in defining mineral resources or leading to a commercial discovery; the timing and process for the release of escrowed Consideration Units to the Drilling Providers; the anticipated cost of the Initial Drilling Campaign, if any, which may be subject to overruns; the receipt of regulatory approvals; the obligation for future updates as it relates to the Initial Drilling Campaign or future campaigns; and the initial and the overall success and advancement of the Company's projects.

Forward-Looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: the high degree of uncertainties inherent to feasibility and economic studies which are based to a significant extent on various assumptions; variations in commodity prices and exchange rate fluctuations; variations in cost of supplies and labour; lack of availability of qualified personnel; the quality of word provided by the Drilling Providers, if any; the receipt of necessary approvals; availability of financing; uncertainties and risks with respect to exploration and drilling; general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; certainty that finalized the commercial agreements will be successfully executed; risk of costs overruns with the Initial Drilling Campaign or future campaigns, if any, assurance that the final terms will align with those initially agreed upon or that the Initial Drilling Campaign will proceed as anticipated; timelines for drilling, if at all; obtaining required approvals of regulatory authorities; ability to access sufficient capital from internal and external sources; any assurances that the Company's stock price will appreciate or maintain its current value; and the fact that the transaction will result in dilution to the Company's existing shareholders, which may impact the market value of their holdings. The Company cautions that there is no guarantee that the planned Initial Drilling Campaign, if commenced, will yield successful results, identify mineral resources, or lead to further exploration or development. Exploration activities are inherently speculative, and drilling results may be inconclusive, insufficient, or unfeasible for further development. The cost estimates provided are subject to change, and the ability of the Company to continue exploration depends on factors such as market conditions, commodity prices, regulatory approvals, and access to additional funding. Additionally, the issuance of Consideration Units as compensation may remain subject to regulatory and exchange final approval, and there is no assurance that such approval will be obtained. The securities issued in connection with this transaction may be subject to resale restrictions under applicable securities laws and CSE policies. For a more fulsome additional list of risk factors please see the Company's December 31, 2023, year-end Management Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A"), 2024 third-quarter MD&A, available of SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Management of the Company has included the above summary of assumptions and risks related to forward-looking statements provided in this release in order to provide shareholders with a more complete perspective on the Company's current and future operations and such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-Looking statements included in this news release should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the securities in any jurisdiction.

Neither CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES


Drilling intersection includes 4.1 g/t gold over 21 meters, including 8.5 g/t gold over 1 metre

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Lavras Gold Corp. (TSXV: LGC) (OTCQX: LGCFF) ("Lavras Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to release the results from 18 new drill holes testing the Butia Gold Deposit ("Butia" or "Butia Gold Deposit"), located at the western edge of the LDS Project in southern Brazil. Gold mineralization was intersected in all 18 holes reported in this news release at Butia, which hosts a Mineral Resource Estimate of 377,000 ounces of gold in the Measured and Indicated categories and 115,000 ounces of gold in the Inferred category. Several of these 18 new holes returned more than 100 metres of continuous gold mineralization characterized by higher-grade subintervals. Several holes were designed to increase the confidence in the Butia gold resource (converting the Inferred Resource into the Measured & Indicated categories) and others to potentially increase the gold endowment as explained below.

The Company has engaged SGS Laboratory in Belo Horizonte, Brazil to complete a comprehensive metallurgical test program for Butia mineralization with testwork currently underway. These new drill results and initiatives continue to move Lavras Gold toward its short-term corporate goal of defining an economically feasible gold resource on the LDS Project, focused on the Butia Gold Deposit and the adjacent Fazenda do Posto gold target.

HIGHLIGHTS



Drilling

Hole 24BT034 returned:

123.0 metres grading 1.8 g/t gold from 69.0 metres, and including: 21.0 metres grading 4.1 g/t gold from 137.0 metres, and including 1.0 metres grading 6.8 g/t gold from 137.0.0 metres, 1.0 metres grading 8.5 g/t gold from 154.0 metres. 2.0 metres grading 5.3 g/t gold from 174.0 metres, and including 1.0 metres grading 5.9 g/t gold from 174.0 metres.

and including:

Hole 24BT036 intersected:

191.0 metres grading 1.0 g/t gold from 50.0 metres and including: 2.0 metres grading 2.1 g/t gold from 57.0 m 50.0 metres grading 2.2 g/t gold from 70.0.0 metres, and including : 26.0 metres grading 3.8 g/t gold from 90.0 metres, and including 1.0 metres grading 37.2 g/t gold from 110.0 metres, 15.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 164.0 metres, 3.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 191.0 metres, 11.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 210.0 metres.

and including:

"In addition to making new discoveries in this highly prospective gold district, our short-term goal remains the delineation of an economically feasible gold mine on the LDS Project. The results from this new round of drilling are critical to our understanding of the Butia Gold Deposit and the northeast/southwest trending structures that play a significant role in the pattern and nature of mineralization at Butia and, ultimately, the 'mineability' of the deposit," commented Lavras Gold President & CEO Michael Durose.

"The new drilling results continue to demonstrate the excellent near-surface gold grade and continuity of the Butia Gold Deposit. Long continuous intervals of gold mineralization over more than 100 metres typically with higher-grade subintervals and beginning at or near surface confirm the bulk-tonnage nature of Butia. This drilling has also significantly increased our depth of understanding of the geological controls to mineralization. Part of the on-going drilling program at Butia is testing the potential for extensions to mineralization based on our increasingly more detailed and evolving geological model. We have also initiated a detailed metallurgical testing program for Butia as part of the overall derisking strategy for the project.

"An update of drilling results for Fazenda do Posto target is expected as soon as final assay results are received and the geological interpretation is completed. Drilling is on-going in this area as well as to the north on the Caneleira Concession, where we made our most recent discovery, Olaria."

[* Footnote: Butia hosts an Estimated Mineral Resource of 377,000 ounces of gold in the Measured and Indicated categories and 115,000 ounces of gold in the Inferred category as detailed in the technical report (the "Butia Technical Report") titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report Mineral Resource for the Butia Gold Prospect Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil", amended as of November 15, 2024, and originally dated March 21, 2022, with an effective date of January 25, 2022 and prepared for the Corporation by VMG Consultoria e Solucoes Ltda, and co-authored by Volodymyr Myadzel, MAIG, as the qualified person responsible for the entire Butia Technical Report, and Michael C. Durose, P. Geo., and Frank Richard Baker, MIMMM, MAusIMM.]

Discussion of Drill Results - Butia Deposit

Butia is the most advanced gold deposit on the LDS Project consisting of the mineral resource as stated above*, located 150 metres east of the recent Fazenda do Posto gold discovery. The purpose of the current drilling program at Butia is to increase the geological confidence of the existing gold resource by converting a significant portion of inferred geological resources into the measured and indicated categories and to increase the gold endowment of the existing gold resource. Recent drilling results from Butia were disclosed in the news release dated June 25, 2024. To date, results from 33 Lavras Gold drill holes totaling 9,346 metres of drilling have been disclosed based on the 2023 and 2024 drilling program. This total includes the 18 holes disclosed in this news release (24BT024 to 24BT041). More than 30,000 metres of drilling have been completed at Butia to date, including historical drilling prior to 2023.

Figure 1 is a general location map for the LDS Project deposits and targets. Details of the locations of the new drill holes can be found in the plan view in Figure 2. A long section looking northeast is shown in Figure 3. Table 1 details all assay results including newly disclosed results in this press release. Table 2 tabulates drill hole information including collar coordinates, drill hole azimuth and drill hole depths.

A primary purpose of the recent drilling was to test the lateral continuity of gold mineralization across a postulated northeast trending structural corridor. Many of the holes were drilled with an azimuth oriented 110 degrees and/or 290 degrees. As shown in Figure 2 and summarized in Table 1, these holes include 24BT034, 24BT036, 24BT037, 24BT039 and 24BT040 and 24BT041. These holes confirm continuous gold mineralization across a northeast trending structure. Gold grades generally increase towards the northwest where sulphide-bearing episyenite is found. Continuous, moderate grade gold is found in the southeast in areas typically associated with mineralized perthitic granite.

Drill holes 24BT034 and 24BT036 confirm good continuous higher grade gold mineralization between vertical holes 23BT016, 23BT019, 24BT023, and 23BT024 that were drilled across a northwest trend and defining continuous gold mineralization from surface to depths of more than 200 metres (see press release June 2024).

Detailed gold assay results by drill hole are summarized in Table 1. The 18 new holes disclosed in this press release are from 24BT024 to 24BT041. Some highlights of the recent drilling results include:

Drill hole 24BT034 was collared 110 metres northwest of drillhole 23BT019 in the north-central portion of the Butia gold deposit (see Figure 2). The hole was drilled on an azimuth of 110 degrees and inclined 60 degrees. The hole was designed to test the lateral continuity of higher-grade mineralization encountered in vertical hole 23BT019 that returned 236.0 metres grading 1.40 g/t gold from surface (see Figure 3). A long interval of continuous bulk-tonnage disseminated gold mineralization was encountered from 69.0 meters to a depth of 192.0 metres within mineralized episyenite with minor subintervals of perthitic granite as detailed below.

Intersected 123.0 metres grading 1.8 g/t gold from 69.0 metres, and including: 21.0 metres grading 4.1 g/t gold from 137.0 metres , and including 1.0 metres grading 6.8 g/t gold from 137.0 metres, and including 1.0 metres grading 7.1 g/t gold from 153.0 metres, 2.0 metres grading 5.3 g/t gold from 174.0 m, 1.0 metres grading 5.9 g/t gold from 174.0 metres

and including:

Drill hole 24BT034 confirms continuous gold mineralization across an interpreted northeast trending structure. Significantly, a 21.0 metre subinterval of high-grade gold grading 4.1 g/t gold was encountered in sulphide-bearing episyenite. Several local high-grade intervals of gold ranging from 5.3 g/t gold to 7.1 g/t gold were also found.

Drill hole 24BT036 was collared 140 metres northwest of drillhole 23BT016 and 23BT018 in the central-west portion of the Butia gold deposit and drilled on an azimuth of 110 degrees and inclined 60 degrees (see Figure 2 & Figure 3). The purpose of this hole was to better understand the nature, grade and continuity of gold mineralization in this portion of the deposit across an interpreted northeast trending structure. Continuous gold mineralization was encountered over long intervals in episyenite and mineralized perthitic granite. Higher-grade subintervals have been observed typically within zones of episyenite hosting pyrite and arsenian pyrite. Cross-cutting chlorite quartz-carbonate sulphide veins with visible gold have also been observed (Figure 4). A summary of assay composites is as follows:

Returned 272.0 meters grading 0.80 g/t gold from surface and including: 191.0 metres grading 1.0 g/t gold from 50.0 metres and including: 2.0 metres grading 2.1 g/t gold from 57.0 m 50.0 metres grading 2.2 g/t gold from 70.0.0 metres , and including: 26.0 metres grading 3.8 g/t gold from 26.0 metres , and including 1.0 metres grading 37.2 g/t gold from 110.0m 15.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 164.0 metres, 3.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 191.0 metres, 11.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 210.0 metres.



Hole 24BT036 provides a good indication of long continuous gold mineralization laterally to depths of more than 200 metres, and laterally across a northwest-southeast direction.

Drillhole 24BT040 was collared 70 metres southeast of drill hole 24BT036 in the central portion of Butia. The hole was drilled on an azimuth of 110 degrees and inclined 60 degrees (see Figure 2 & Figure 3). Continuous gold mineralization was encountered from surface in mineralized episyenite and perthitic granite as highlighted below:

181.0 m grading 0.7 g/t gold from surface and including:

5.0 m grading 1.0 g/t gold from 34.0m

4.0 m grading 2.0 g/t gold from 48.0 m

3.0 m grading 2.1 g/t gold from 55.0 m

6.0 m grading 1.8 g/t gold from 60.0 m

8.0 m grading 2.0 g/t gold from 66.0 m

4.0 m grading 1.4 g/t gold from 84.0 m

3.0 m grading 2.8 g/t gold from 100.0 m

2.0 m grading 1.5 g/t gold from 112.0 m

3.0 m grading 1.0 g/t gold from 156.0 m

1.0 m grading 1.5 g/t gold from 173.0 m

Please refer to Table 1 for more details.

Drill hole 24BT026 was positioned in the east-central portion of the Butia gold deposit, 140 metres east of vertical drill hole 23BT019. Drill hole 23BT026 was drilled vertically (see Figure 2 & Figure 3). The purpose was to better grasp the nature of the geology and extent of gold mineralization vertically in this portion of the deposit. Multiple long intervals of gold mineralization consisting mainly of disseminated pyrite +- arsenian pyrite within episyenite and perthitic granite occurred from 119.0 metres to a depth of 491.0 metres. Numerous mineralized intervals were encountered. Highlights are shown below. Refer to Table 1 for more detail:

28.0 metres grading 1.4 g/t gold from 167.0 metres and including: 10.0 metres grading 3.5 g/t gold from 167.0 metres and including 1.0 metres grading 30.6 g/t gold from 169.0 metres

and including: 14.0 metres grading 0.8 g/t gold from 391.0 metres and including 6.0 metres grading 1.7 g/t gold from 391.0 metres and including 1.0 metre grading 2.6 g/t gold from 393.0 metres and including 1.0 metre grading 5.5 g/t gold from 395.0 m

10.0 metres grading 1.4 g/t gold from 436.0 m and including: 2.0 metres grading 5.7 g/t gold from 439.0 m and including 1.0 metre grading 8.9 g/t gold from 439.0 m and including



Hole 24BT026 was successful in demonstrating the depth potential of mineralization at Butia.

Drill hole 24BT037 was collared 70 metres southwest of drill hole 24BT040 and drilled on an azimuth of 110 degrees and inclined 60 degrees (see Figure 2 and Figure 3). The purpose was to test the southwestern extension of the deposit. Multiple closely spaced zones of gold mineralization were encountered throughout the hole beginning from 32.0 metres to 331.0 metres. Highlights are as follows:

1.0 metre grading 3.5 g/t gold from 51.0 metres

5.0 metres grading 11.7 g/t gold from 66.0 metres and including

1.0 metre grading 56.9 g/t gold from 67.0 metres

13.0 metres grading 0.5 g/t gold from 78.0 metres including

1.0 metre grading 2.9 g/t gold from, 82.0 metres

11.0 metres grading 1.1 g/t gold from 204.0 metres including

1.0 metre grading 1.7 g/t gold from 204.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 2.1 g/t gold from 207.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 1.4 g/t gold from 210.00 metres and

1.0 metre grading 1.3 g/t gold from 212.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 1.8 g/t gold from 213.0 metres

31.0 metres grading 1.1 g/t gold from 242.0 metres and including

1.0 metres grading 3.9 g/t gold from 248.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 7.4 g/t gold from 249.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 5.1 g/t gold from 250.0 metres

Drill hole 24BT038 was positioned along the southeastern edge of the Butia gold deposit and drilled along an azimuth of 110 degrees at an inclined angle of 60 degrees. The hole encountered 55.0 metres of continuous gold mineralization grading 0.6 g/t gold from 100.0 metres, including several higher-grade subintervals including:

5.0 m grading 2.4 g/t gold from 100.0 metres

8.0 metres grading 1.1 g/t gold from 109.0 metres

2.0 metres grading 1.4 g/t gold from 129.0 metres

1.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 147.0 metres

Hole 24BT038 was successful in extending the Butia mineralized footprint to the southeast.

Drill hole 24BT041 was collared in the southeast part of Butia and drilled along an azimuth of 290 degrees at an inclined angle of 60 degrees. The hole encountered moderate disseminated gold near the top of the hole and better grades at depth. Gold mineralization is hosted within perthitic granite and episyenite. Highlights are detailed below:

2.0 metres grading 0.6 g/t gold from 187.0 metres

1.0 metres grading 0.6 g/t gold from 191.0 metres

4.0 metres grading 0.9 g/t gold from 219.0 m including

1.0 metres grading 1.1 g/t gold from 221.0 metres and

1.0 metres grading 1.8 g/t gold from 222.0 metres

22.0 metres grading 1.2 g/t gold from 233.0 metres including

7.0 metres grading 1.3 g/t gold from 233.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 1.8 g/t gold from 236.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 2.3 g/t gold from 238.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 2.1 g/t gold from 239.0 metres

5.0 metres grading 2.1 g/t gold from 246.0 metres including

1.0 metre grading 3.2 g/t gold from 249.0 metres and

1.0 metre grading 2.2 g/t gold from 250.0 metres

4.0 metres grading 1.0 g/t gold from 253.0 metres including

1.0 metres grading 1.7 g/t gold from 254.0 metres.

Please refer to Table 1 for a complete list of all drill holes and detailed assay results.

Table 1. Summary of Drill Hole Composites from the Butia Gold Deposit

Drill Hole From To Interval Gold grade Comment (metres) (metres) (metres) (grams/tonne) 23BT005 0.00 37.00 37.00 0.74 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite Including 4.00 23.00 19.00 1.17 Saprolite 97.00 99.00 2.00 0.32 Perthitic Granite 101.00 103.00 2.00 0.27 Perthitic Granite 23BT009 54.00 58.00 4.00 0.61 Episyenite 73.00 89.00 16.00 0.63 Episyenite including 74.00 81.00 7.00 1.14 Episyenite 121.00 186.00 65.00 0.51 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite 141.00 159.16 18.16 0.99 Episyenite including 127.00 131.00 4.00 0.80 Episyenite including 141.00 149.00 8.00 1.49 Episyenite including 142.00 145.00 3.00 2.10 Episyenite including 168.00 172.00 4.00 1.29 Perthitic Granite including 177.00 178.00 1.00 0.76 Perthitic Granite/Episyenite including 182.00 186.00 4.00 0.65 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite 208.00 220.00 12.00 0.89 Perthitic Granite including 208.00 210.00 2.00 1.22 Perthitic Granite including 214.00 219.00 5.00 1.50 Perthitic Granite 239.00 242.00 3.00 0.45 Perthitic Granite including 239.00 240.00 1.00 0.81 Perthitic Granite 23BT010 0.00 46.00 46.00 0.48 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite Including 0.00 9.00 9.00 1.15 Episyenite Including 17.00 19.00 2.00 1.18 Episyenite Including 40.00 42.00 2.00 0.58 Perthitic Granite Including 45.00 46.00 1.00 0.81 Perthitic Granite 61.00 63.00 2.00 0.44 Perthitic Granite 68.00 73.00 5.00 0.30 Perthitic Granite 96.00 100.00 4.00 0.46 Perthitic Granite including 96.00 97.00 1.00 1.23 Perthitic Granite 110.00 111.00 1.00 0.51 Episyenite 23BT011 12.00 22.00 10.00 0.76 Perthitic Granite including 13.00 15.00 2.00 2.64 Perthitic Granite 23BT012 67.00 74.00 7.00 0.51 Episyenite 136.00 246.00 110.00 0.71 Episyenite Including 142.00 147.00 5.00 1.27 Episyenite Including 142.00 144.00 2.00 2.68 Episyenite Including 154.00 174.00 20.00 1.59 Episyenite Including 154.00 157.00 3.00 4.20 Episyenite Including 163.00 166.00 3.00 6.06 Episyenite Including 179.00 182.00 3.00 2.77 Episyenite Including 191.00 193.00 2.00 4.08 Episyenite Including 205.00 206.00 1.00 0.90 Episyenite Including 218.00 220.69 2.69 1.12 Episyenite Including 227.00 229.00 2.00 0.83 Episyenite Including 231.50 233.51 2.01 0.80 Episyenite Including 240.18 242.02 1.84 1.27 Episyenite Including 243.30 244.00 0.70 1.11 Episyenite 253.53 255.37 1.84 1.59 Perthitic Granite 313.00 332.00 19.00 0.60 Perthitic Granite Including 325.00 327.00 2.00 1.73 Perthitic Granite Including 329.00 331.00 2.00 1.43 Perthitic Granite 23BT013 4.00 5.00 1.00 0.44 Perthitic granite 15.00 19.00 4.00 0.30 Perthitic granite 53.00 55.00 2.00 0.35 Perthitic granite 56.00 57.00 1.00 0.26 Perthitic granite 61.00 62.00 1.00 0.44 Perthitic granite 71.00 72.00 1.00 0.60 Perthitic granite 107.00 109.00 2.00 0.34 Perthitic granite 119.00 192.00 73.00 0.74 Episyenite including 136.00 171.00 35.00 1.18 Episyenite including 136.00 139.00 3.00 1.00 Episyenite including 146.00 158.00 12.00 1.54 Episyenite including 146.00 149.00 3.00 2.21 Episyenite 200.00 201.00 1.00 0.91 Episyenite 202.00 203.00 1.00 0.32 Episyenite 207.00 210.00 3.00 0.59 Episyenite 215.00 217.00 2.00 0.34 Episyenite 218.00 221.00 3.00 1.88 Perthitic granite 225.00 228.00 3.00 0.46 Perthitic granite 231.00 233.00 2.00 0.40 Perthitic granite 236.00 237.00 1.00 0.25 Perthitic granite 245.00 246.00 1.00 0.25 Perthitic granite 248.00 249.00 1.00 0.34 Perthitic granite 257.00 258.00 1.00 0.35 Perthitic granite 23BT014 43.00 47.00 4.00 0.45 Perthitic granite 84.00 85.00 1.00 0.32 Perthitic granite 182.62 185.00 2.38 0.72 Perthitic granite 215.00 216.00 1.00 0.36 Perthitic granite 250.00 260.00 10.00 1.45 Episyenite, vg, gln 23BT015 161.33 162.45 1.12 0.27 Perthitic Granite 182.00 184.00 2.00 0.29 Perthitic Granite 242.00 243.00 1.00 0.24 Perthitic Granite 269.00 274.00 5.00 0.62 Perthitic Granite including 272.00 273.00 1.00 1.73 Perthitic Granite 23BT016 0.00 160.00 160.00 1.04 Episyenite including 0.00 109.00 109.00 1.36 Episyenite including 25.00 54.00 29.00 2.90 Episyenite including 29.00 34.00 5.00 4.65 Episyenite including 30.00 48.00 18.00 3.22 Episyenite 183.00 187.00 4.00 0.34 208.00 224.00 16.00 1.03 Episyenite including 208.00 214.00 6.00 2.06 Episyenite 256.00 257.00 1.00 0.25 Episyenite 263.00 264.00 1.00 0.29 Episyenite 266.00 267.00 1.00 0.28 Episyenite 270.00 287.00 17.00 0.43 Episyenite 292.00 293.00 1.00 0.28 Episyenite 316.00 323.00 7.00 0.35 Episyenite 23BT017 80.00 133.00 53.00 0.54 including 107.00 115.00 8.00 0.99 Episyenite including 119.00 124.00 5.00 1.48 Episyenite including 130.00 132.00 2.00 2.53 Episyenite 23BT018 0.00 221.00 221.00 0.81 Episyenite +/- PG including 0.00 130.00 130.00 1.15 Episyenite +/- PG including 32.00 42.00 10.00 1.60 Episyenite including 47.00 57.00 10.00 1.42 Episyenite including 117.00 125.00 8.00 3.53 Episyenite +/- PG 23BT019 0.00 236.00 236.00 1.35 Episyenite +/- PG including 1.00 2.00 1.00 1.57 Saprolite including 37.00 236.00 199.00 1.56 Episyenite +/- PG including 75.00 149.00 74.00 2.45 Episyenite +/- PG including 83.31 84.00 0.69 44.40 Visible gold in QV including 94.00 95.00 1.00 48.30 Visible gold in QV including 161.00 176.00 15.00 2.09 Episyenite +/- PG including 185.00 187.86 2.86 3.66 Episyenite including 195.00 215.00 20.00 2.35 Episyenite +/- PG 24BT020 71.00 72.00 1.00 1.18 PG 24BT021 0.00 3.00 3.00 0.63 Saprolite 22.00 99.00 77.00 0.37 PG +/- Episyenite including 22.00 25.00 3.00 0.59 PG including 22.00 23.00 1.00 1.25 PG including 59.00 99.00 40.00 0.55 PG +/- Episyenite including 59.00 60.00 1.00 0.54 PG including 66.00 67.00 1.00 1.04 Metasomatite including 72.00 96.00 24.00 0.69 PG 108.00 110.00 2.00 0.25 PG 24BT022 34.00 39.00 5.00 0.23 PG including 34.00 35.00 1.00 0.69 PG including 38.00 39.00 1.00 0.32 PG 24BT023 0.00 228.00 228.00 1.03 Episyenite +/- PG including 35.00 135.00 100.00 1.64 Episyenite including 72.00 228.00 156.00 1.30 Episyenite +/- PG Including 72.00 213.00 141.00 1.37 Episyenite +/- PG including 72.00 170.00 98.00 1.71 Episyenite +/- PG including 72.00 132.00 60.00 2.31 Episyenite +/- PG including 72.00 92.00 20.00 2.58 Episyenite including 72.00 77.00 5.00 3.25 Episyenite including 77.00 82.00 5.00 3.15 Episyenite including 87.00 92.00 5.00 3.00 Episyenite 24BT024 0.00 1.00 1.00 0.65 Soil 6.00 7.00 1.00 0.34 Saprolite 24.00 30.00 6.00 0.33 Perthitic Granite 32.00 33.00 1.00 0.25 Perthitic Granite 45.00 51.00 6.00 3.89 Episyenite including 47.00 48.00 1.00 2.87 Episyenite including 48.00 49.00 1.00 19.58 Episyenite 120.00 122.00 2.00 0.37 Perthitic Granite 139.00 173.00 34.00 0.28 Perthitic Granite including 157.00 158.00 1.00 0.54 Perthitic Granite including 163.00 164.00 1.00 1.10 Perthitic Granite including 170.00 173.00 3.00 0.68 Perthitic Granite 189.00 191.00 2.00 0.28 Perthitic Granite 220.00 224.00 4.00 0.78 Episyenite including 220.00 221.00 1.00 2.62 Episyenite 227.00 258.00 31.00 0.23 Episyenite including 228.00 236.00 8.00 0.35 Episyenite including 248.00 250.00 2.00 0.33 Episyenite including 253.00 254.00 1.00 0.67 Episyenite 266.00 278.00 12.00 0.32 Perthitic Granite 24BT025 0.00 59.00 59.00 0.39 Perthitic Granite including 5.00 6.00 1.00 0.30 Perthitic Granite including 10.00 12.00 2.00 0.64 Perthitic Granite including 16.00 17.00 1.00 0.37 Perthitic Granite including 19.00 20.11 1.11 0.38 Perthitic Granite including 23.00 25.00 2.00 0.44 Perthitic Granite including 32.00 33.00 1.00 0.25 Perthitic Granite including 41.00 58.00 17.00 0.89 Perthitic Granite and 46.00 52.00 6.00 1.62 Perthitic Granite and 46.00 47.00 1.00 4.03 Perthitic Granite and 50.00 51.00 1.00 3.51 Perthitic Granite and 57.00 58.00 1.00 1.82 Perthitic Granite including 83.00 99.00 16.00 0.43 Perthitic Granite and 88.00 89.00 1.00 1.87 Perthitic Granite and 91.00 92.00 1.00 1.00 Perthitic Granite including 139.00 140.00 1.00 0.23 Perthitic Granite including 167.00 173.00 6.00 0.26 Perthitic Granite 24BT026 96.00 97.00 1.00 0.45 Perthitic Granite 119.00 133.00 14.00 0.23 Perthitic Granite including 119.00 121.00 2.00 0.40 Perthitic Granite including 122.00 124.00 2.00 0.40 Perthitic Granite including 130.00 133.00 3.00 0.34 Perthitic Granite 149.00 150.00 1.00 0.64 Perthitic Granite 155.00 156.00 1.00 1.11 Perthitic Granite 160.00 161.00 1.00 0.28 Perthitic Granite 167.00 195.00 28.00 1.39 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite including 167.00 177.00 10.00 3.46 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite and 169.00 170.00 1.00 30.57 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite and 176.00 177.00 1.00 1.51 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite 203.00 227.00 24.00 0.30 Perthitic Granite including 205.00 207.00 2.00 1.64 Perthitic Granite including 212.00 217.00 5.00 0.36 Perthitic Granite 234.00 235.00 1.00 0.27 Perthitic Granite 239.00 249.00 10.00 0.32 Episyenite including 240.00 241.00 1.00 0.69 Episyenite including 243.00 244.00 1.00 0.70 Episyenite including 246.00 247.00 1.00 0.68 Episyenite 249.00 250.00 1.00 0.33 Episyenite 254.00 255.00 1.00 0.27 Episyenite 271.00 281.00 10.00 0.50 Episyenite including 272.00 274.00 2.00 1.48 Episyenite and 272.00 273.00 1.00 2.05 Episyenite 303.00 305.00 2.00 0.34 Perthitic Granite 381.00 384.00 3.00 0.25 Episyenite including 383.00 384.00 1.00 0.45 Episyenite 391.00 405.00 14.00 0.80 Episyenite including 391.00 397.00 6.00 1.66 Episyenite and 393.00 394.00 1.00 2.61 Episyenite and 395.00 396.00 1.00 5.45 Episyenite 412.00 414.00 2.00 0.29 Perthitic Granite 436.00 446.00 10.00 1.41 Episyenite including 439.00 441.00 2.00 5.72 Episyenite including 439.00 440.00 1.00 8.86 Episyenite 488.00 491.00 3.00 0.29 Perthitic Granite 24BT027 128.00 129.00 1.00 0.70 Perthitic Granite 146.00 148.00 2.00 0.90 Perthitic Granite including 147.00 148.00 1.00 1.59 Perthitic Granite 326.00 342.00 16.00 0.40 Episyenite including 332.00 339.00 7.00 0.56 Episyenite 333.00 334.00 1.00 0.82 Episyenite 337.00 338.00 1.00 0.84 Episyenite 24BT028 43.00 44.00 1.00 0.26 Perthitic Granite 98.00 100.00 2.00 0.23 Perthitic Granite 187.00 188.00 1.00 0.25 Perthitic Granite 24BT029 24.02 26.00 1.98 0.64 Perthitic Granite 24BT030 162.00 164.00 2.00 5.87 Monzogranite including 162.00 163.00 1.00 11.40 Monzogranite 280.00 281.00 1.00 3.22 Monzogranite 317.00 318.00 1.00 0.22 Monzogranite 24BT031 1.00 30.00 29.00 0.46 Episyenite including 15.00 17.00 2.00 0.73 Episyenite including 15.00 29.00 14.00 0.76 Episyenite and 21.00 25.00 4.00 0.92 Episyenite 34.00 70.00 36.00 0.15 Perthitic Granite including 34.00 35.00 1.00 0.46 Perthitic Granite 60.00 62.00 2.00 0.28 Perthitic Granite 63.00 64.00 1.00 0.24 Perthitic Granite 76.00 78.00 2.00 0.12 Perthitic Granite 93.00 95.00 2.00 0.19 Perthitic Granite 99.00 102.00 3.00 0.17 Perthitic Granite 108.00 109.00 1.00 0.32 Perthitic Granite 24BT032 195.00 228.00 33.00 0.23 Perthitic Granite/Episyenite including 213.00 215.00 2.00 0.61 Episyenite including 216.00 217.00 1.00 0.26 Episyenite including 220.00 221.00 1.00 0.27 Episyenite including 222.00 223.00 1.00 0.26 Episyenite including 223.00 224.00 1.00 1.57 Episyenite including 224.00 225.00 1.00 0.44 Episyenite including 227.00 228.00 1.00 0.26 Perthitic Granite 368.00 369.00 1.00 0.26 Episyenite 396.00 398.00 2.00 0.39 Episyenite 411.00 412.00 1.00 0.27 Episyenite 24BT033 2.00 31.29 29.29 0.71 Episyenite including 3.00 6.00 3.00 0.84 Episyenite and 4.00 5.00 1.00 1.21 Episyenite 15.00 16.00 1.00 0.77 Episyenite 24.00 30.00 6.00 2.15 Episyenite including 29.00 30.00 1.00 6.82 Episyenite 88.00 89.00 1.00 0.24 Perthitic Granite 100.00 106.00 6.00 0.13 Perthitic Granite 133.00 134.00 1.00 0.15 Perthitic Granite 24BT034 24.00 25.00 1.00 0.48 Perthitic Granite 60.00 62.00 2.00 0.26 Episyenite 69.00 192.00 123.00 1.76 Perthitic Granite/Episyenite including 101.00 102.00 1.00 3.97 Perthitic Granite including 118.00 120.00 2.00 3.62 Perthitic Granite including 123.00 124.00 1.00 3.75 Episyenite 137.00 158.00 21.00 4.06 Episyenite including 137.00 138.00 1.00 6.77 Episyenite including 142.00 143.00 1.00 4.24 Episyenite including 147.00 148.00 1.00 5.32 Episyenite including 148.00 149.00 1.00 3.64 Episyenite including 149.00 150.00 1.00 1.00 Episyenite including 150.00 151.00 1.00 2.61 Episyenite including 151.00 152.00 1.00 3.96 Episyenite including 152.00 153.00 1.00 4.26 Episyenite including 153.00 154.00 1.00 7.06 Episyenite including 154.00 155.00 1.00 8.47 Episyenite including 155.00 156.00 1.00 5.06 Episyenite including 156.00 157.00 1.00 5.85 Episyenite 165.00 168.00 3.00 4.82 Episyenite including 165.00 166.00 1.00 5.04 Episyenite including 166.00 167.00 1.00 5.46 Episyenite 174.00 176.00 2.00 5.31 Episyenite Including 174.00 175.00 1.00 5.89 Episyenite 180.00 181.00 1.00 4.43 Episyenite 206.00 207.00 1.00 4.99 Episyenite 227.00 229.00 2.00 0.28 Episyenite 275.00 281.00 6.00 0.25 Episyenite 287.00 288.00 1.00 0.32 Perthitic Granite 24BT035 7.00 15.00 8.00 0.30 Perthitic Granite 18.00 20.00 2.00 0.22 Perthitic Granite 23.00 24.00 1.00 0.40 Perthitic Granite 25.00 26.00 1.00 0.24 Perthitic Granite 92.00 104.00 12.00 0.27 Episyenite 109.00 110.00 1.00 0.28 Perthitic Granite 112.00 113.00 1.00 0.29 Perthitic Granite 24BT036 0.00 272.00 272.00 0.80 Perthitic Granite/Episyenite 6.00 7.00 1.00 0.27 Perthitic Granite 16.00 17.00 1.00 1.08 Perthitic Granite 23.00 27.00 4.00 0.39 Perthitic Granite 33.00 34.00 1.00 11.86 Perthitic Granite 50.00 51.00 1.00 0.33 Episyenite 57.00 59.00 2.00 2.06 Episyenite 64.00 65.00 1.00 1.17 Episyenite 65.00 90.00 25.00 0.54 Episyenite 90.00 91.00 1.00 1.09 Episyenite 90.00 116.00 26.00 3.75 Episyenite including 110.00 111.00 1.00 37.23 Episyenite including 114.00 115.00 1.00 11.40 Episyenite including 115.00 116.00 1.00 24.80 Episyenite 118.00 127.00 9.00 0.37 Episyenite 131.00 134.00 3.00 0.26 Episyenite 147.00 148.00 1.00 2.12 Episyenite 156.00 164.00 8.00 0.65 Episyenite 164.00 179.00 15.00 1.32 Episyenite including 170.00 171.00 1.00 2.24 Episyenite including 174.00 179.00 5.00 2.01 Episyenite 179.00 191.00 12.00 0.53 Episyenite 191.00 194.00 3.00 1.30 Episyenite 194.00 204.00 10.00 0.55 Episyenite 204.00 206.00 2.00 0.98 Episyenite 206.00 210.00 4.00 0.43 Episyenite 210.00 221.00 11.00 1.33 Episyenite 221.00 241.00 20.00 0.27 Episyenite 241.00 282.00 41.00 0.22 Episyenite including 259.00 260.00 1.00 0.35 Perthitic Granite including 280.00 282.00 2.00 3.04 Perthitic Granite 24BT037 32.00 34.00 2.00 0.29 Perthitic Granite 46.00 47.00 1.00 0.26 Perthitic Granite 50.00 53.00 3.00 1.26 Perthitic Granite including 51.00 52.00 1.00 3.49 Perthitic Granite 66.00 71.00 5.00 11.70 Perthitic Granite including 67.00 68.00 1.00 56.93 Perthitic Granite 71.00 76.00 5.00 0.17 Episyenite 78.00 91.00 13.00 0.47 Perthitic Granite including 82.00 83.00 1.00 2.92 Perthitic Granite 95.00 97.00 2.00 0.24 Perthitic Granite 101.00 103.00 2.00 0.39 Perthitic Granite 104.00 114.00 10.00 0.16 Perthitic Granite 116.00 130.00 14.00 0.42 Perthitic Granite including 121.00 122.00 1.00 0.90 Perthitic Granite 150.00 153.00 3.00 0.46 Perthitic Granite 153.00 168.00 15.00 0.13 Perthitic Granite 169.00 172.00 3.00 0.25 Perthitic Granite 179.00 183.00 4.00 0.27 Perthitic Granite 193.00 194.00 1.00 0.57 Perthitic Granite 204.00 215.00 11.00 1.09 Perthitic Granite including 204.00 205.00 1.00 1.67 Perthitic Granite including 207.00 208.00 1.00 2.12 Perthitic Granite 210.00 211.00 1.00 1.38 Perthitic Granite 212.00 213.00 1.00 1.28 Perthitic Granite 213.00 214.00 1.00 1.80 Perthitic Granite 229.00 230.00 1.00 0.26 Perthitic Granite 230.00 238.00 8.00 0.11 Perthitic Granite 238.00 239.00 1.00 0.26 Perthitic Granite 242.00 273.00 31.00 1.07 Episyenite including 245.00 246.00 1.00 2.37 Episyenite including 246.00 247.00 1.00 1.08 Episyenite including 247.00 248.00 1.00 1.74 Episyenite including 248.00 249.00 1.00 3.85 Episyenite including 249.00 250.00 1.00 7.40 Episyenite including 250.00 251.00 1.00 5.11 Episyenite including 251.00 252.00 1.00 2.04 Episyenite including 252.00 253.00 1.00 1.77 Episyenite 320.00 331.00 11.00 0.15 Perthitic Granite 24BT038 100.00 155.00 55.00 0.61 Episyenite/Perthitic Granite including 100.00 105.00 5.00 2.40 Episyenite including 109.00 117.00 8.00 1.10 Episyenite including 129.00 131.00 2.00 1.43 Perthitic Granite including 147.00 148.00 1.00 1.28 Perthitic Granite 24BT039 9.00 15.00 6.00 0.45 Perthitic Granite 17.32 27.00 9.68 0.27 Perthitic Granite 27.00 36.00 9.00 0.09 Perthitic Granite 42.00 47.00 5.00 0.27 Perthitic Granite 53.00 57.00 4.00 0.36 Perthitic Granite 58.00 59.00 1.00 0.19 Perthitic Granite 61.00 67.00 6.00 7.84 Perthitic Granite including 65.00 66.00 1.00 45.90 Perthitic Granite 76.00 80.00 4.00 0.74 Perthitic Granite 102.00 107.00 5.00 0.76 Perthitic Granite 138.00 139.00 1.00 0.18 Episyenite 140.00 143.00 3.00 0.27 Episyenite 146.00 150.00 4.00 0.14 Episyenite 150.00 152.00 2.00 0.22 Episyenite 154.00 155.00 1.00 0.10 Episyenite 155.00 159.00 4.00 0.28 Episyenite 159.00 165.00 6.00 0.14 Episyenite 174.00 177.00 3.00 0.15 Episyenite 177.00 178.00 1.00 0.28 Episyenite 178.00 184.00 6.00 0.18 Episyenite 184.00 185.00 1.00 0.38 Perthitic Granite 185.00 188.00 3.00 0.14 Perthitic Granite 194.00 195.00 1.00 0.20 Perthitic Granite 197.00 198.00 1.00 0.33 Perthitic Granite 207.00 210.00 3.00 0.16 Perthitic Granite 24BT040 0.00 181.00 181.00 0.74 Episyenite including 0.00 34.00 34.00 0.50 Episyenite 34.00 39.00 5.00 0.96 Episyenite 39.00 42.00 3.00 0.45 Episyenite 47.00 48.00 1.00 0.22 Episyenite 48.00 52.00 4.00 2.01 Episyenite 52.00 55.00 3.00 0.71 Episyenite 55.00 58.00 3.00 2.11 Episyenite 58.00 60.00 2.00 0.58 Episyenite 60.00 66.00 6.00 1.81 Episyenite 66.00 74.00 8.00 2.00 Episyenite 74.00 77.00 3.00 0.77 Episyenite 81.00 84.00 3.00 0.56 Episyenite 84.00 88.00 4.00 1.35 Episyenite 88.00 90.00 2.00 0.19 Episyenite 91.00 94.00 3.00 0.75 Episyenite 94.00 100.00 6.00 0.25 Episyenite 100.00 103.00 3.00 2.75 Episyenite 103.00 112.00 9.00 0.63 Episyenite 112.00 114.00 2.00 1.51 Episyenite 114.00 121.00 7.00 0.66 Episyenite 123.00 132.00 9.00 0.68 Episyenite 134.00 152.00 18.00 0.41 Episyenite 152.00 155.00 3.00 0.19 Episyenite 156.00 159.00 3.00 0.97 Episyenite 158.00 173.00 15.00 0.33 Episyenite 173.00 174.00 1.00 1.45 Episyenite 174.00 181.00 7.00 0.20 Episyenite 188.00 190.00 2.00 0.15 Perthitic Granite 215.00 217.00 2.00 0.31 Perthitic Granite 24BT041 0.00 7.00 7.00 0.16 Perthitic Granite 80.00 81.00 1.00 0.35 Perthitic Granite 82.00 86.00 4.00 0.16 Perthitic Granite 86.00 88.00 2.00 0.27 Perthitic Granite 93.00 95.00 2.00 0.28 Perthitic Granite 97.00 107.00 10.00 0.15 Perthitic Granite 123.00 125.00 2.00 0.14 Perthitic Granite 129.00 139.00 10.00 0.20 Perthitic Granite 146.00 160.00 14.00 0.11 Perthitic Granite 160.00 164.00 4.00 0.25 Perthitic Granite 173.00 192.00 19.00 0.19 Perthitic Granite 187.00 189.00 2.00 0.58 Perthitic Granite 191.00 192.00 1.00 0.56 Perthitic Granite 193.00 194.00 1.00 0.23 Perthitic Granite 196.00 210.00 14.00 0.14 Perthitic Granite 216.00 219.00 3.00 0.12 Perthitic Granite 219.00 223.00 4.00 0.88 Episyenite including 221.00 222.00 1.00 1.11 Episyenite including 222.00 223.00 1.00 1.82 Episyenite 229.00 230.00 1.00 0.13 Episyenite 233.00 255.00 22.00 1.15 Episyenite including 233.00 240.00 7.00 1.26 Episyenite including 235.00 236.00 1.00 1.10 Episyenite including 236.00 237.00 1.00 1.82 Episyenite including 238.00 239.00 1.00 2.27 Episyenite including 239.00 240.00 1.00 2.13 Episyenite 240.00 246.00 6.00 0.32 Episyenite 246.00 251.00 5.00 2.10 Episyenite including 249.00 250.00 1.00 3.15 Episyenite 250.00 251.00 1.00 2.22 Episyenite 251.00 255.00 4.00 1.03 Episyenite including 253.00 254.00 1.00 1.67 Episyenite including 254.00 255.00 1.00 1.03 Episyenite 255.00 272.00 17.00 0.34 Episyenite 361.00 362.00 1.00 0.23 Perthitic Granite

Assumes 0.25 g/t gold cut-off grade, no top cut.

The Company has been targeting larger intersections of greater than 0.25 g/t gold. Intersections lower than this threshold may provide exploration insight and may therefore be disclosed.

Intervals represent drill core interval; true widths have not been determined at this time.

PG = Perthitic Granite

Table 2. Butia Drill Hole Coordinates

Drill Hole Easting Northing Elevation

Azimuth (m) (Degrees) Dip

(degrees) Start Depth

(metres) Final Depth (metres) 23BT005 217984 6586490 387 20 -60 0 230.19 23BT009 218119 6586240 407 20 -60 0 252.95 23BT010 217984 6586486 387 200 -60 0 159.79 23BT011 218022 6586572 382 20 -60 0 200.55 23BT012 218043 6586240 407 20 -60 0 358.13 23BT013 218095 6586397 400 0 -90 0 317.87 23BT014 217999 6586257 410 20 -60 0 331.33 23BT015 218125 6586212 404 20 -60 0 294.37 23BT016 218152 6586454 393 200 -60 0 357.66 23BT017 217973 6586670 383 200 -60 0 253.74 23BT018 218152 6586456 393 0 -90 0 256.36 23BT019 218102 6586534 385 0 -90 0 276.54 24BT020 218187 6586357 398 200 -60 0 76.35 24BT021 218171 6586366 397 20 -60 0 125.93 24BT022 218222 6586349 396 20 -60 0 78.72 24BT023 218126 6586494 389 0 -90 0 275.96 24BT024 218178 6586472 381 0 -90 0 293.83 24BT025 218106 6586305 375 0 -90 0 279.88 24BT026 218239 6586517 378 0 -90 0 517.04 24BT027 218174 6586763 365 200 -60 0 453.92 24BT028 218338 6586314 384 200 -60 0 198.16 24BT029 218033 6586259 395 0 -90 0 210.91 24BT030 218952 6586467 345 200 -60 0 363.55 24BT031 217987 6586538 377 0 -90 0 235.80 24BT032 217965 6586666 377 0 -90 0 559.11 24BT033 217971 6586489 382 0 -90 0 200.32 24BT034 218006 6586584 374 110 -60 0 363.59 24BT035 218006 6586584 374 0 -90 0 153.67 24BT036 218031 6586516 378 110 -60 0 302.52 24BT037 218008 6586415 391 110 -60 0 346.09 24BT038 218133 6586313 397 110 -60 0 198.20 24BT039 218047 6586404 393 110 -60 0 221.80 24BT040 218062 6586455 392 110 -60 0 231.86 24BT041 218167 6586312 395 290 -60 0 369.30

Figure 1  LDS Project Deposit and Target Locations

Figure 2. Plan View of 2023 and 2024 Butia Drill Holes and Gold Assay Grades

Figure 3. Long-Section Looking Northeast of 2023 and 2024 Butia Drill Holes and Gold Assay Grades

Figure 4. Visible Gold from Drill hole 24BT036 showing visible gold specks (bright yellow) scattered throughout the sample. The gold occurs within a cross-cutting chlorite carbonate veinlet and is associated with pyrite (metallic yellow) and galena (gray). This sample from Drill hole 24BT036 spans the interval 115.0 metres to 116.0 metres and grades 24.8 g/t gold.

About the LDS Project

The LDS Project is centred on the town of Lavras do Sul in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. It is approximately 320 kilometres, or a 4.5-hour drive, from the state capital of Porto Alegre. The Company, through its subsidiary, holds directly or indirectly, contractual interests over 34 mineral rights covering approximately 23,000 hectares.

The LDS intrusive complex is a multiphase intrusive centre that is surrounded by coeval volcanic rocks to the east. Geologically, LDS is in the far south of the Neoproterozoic Mantiqueira Province, a 2,700-kilometre-long belt of tectonically and magmatically accreted terrains that stretch as far south as the coastline of central Uruguay and north into southern Bahia State in Brazil. The most advanced targets are the Butia and Cerrito gold deposits - Butia with 377,000 ounces of gold in the Measured and Indicated categories and 115,000 ounces of gold in the Inferred category, and Cerrito with 188,000 ounces of gold in the Indicated category and 293,000 ounces of gold in the Inferred category.

About Lavras Gold Corp.

Lavras Gold Corp. (TSXV: LGC) (OTCQX: LGCFF) is a Canadian exploration company focused on realizing the potential of a highly prospective gold district in southern Brazil. Its Lavras do Sul Project is located in Rio Grande do Sul State and is primarily an intrusive hosted gold system of possible alkaline affinity. More than 24 gold prospects centred on historic gold workings have been identified on the property, which spans approximately 23,000 hectares. Follow Lavras Gold on www.lavrasgold.com, as well as on LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

Michael Durose, President & CEO of Lavras Gold Corp., is the qualified person ("QP") as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101, and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this release.

On Behalf of Lavras Gold Corp.

"Michael Durose"

President & CEO

Additional Technical Notes

Quality Assurance & Quality Control: For the Butia Gold Deposit, sample handling, preparation, and analysis are monitored through the implementation of formal chain-of-custody procedures and quality assurance/quality control programs designed to follow industry best practices.

All drill hole samples in this drilling program consist of split NQ diamond drill core. Drill core is logged and sampled in a secure facility located in Lavras do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. Drill core samples for gold assay are cut in half using a diamond saw and submitted to ALS Laboratories Inc. in Goiania, Goias State, Brazil for preparation by crushing to 85% passing 1.0 mm, riffle splitting to obtain 500 g aliquots, and pulverizing to 85% passing 75 microns.

Pulps are shipped to ALS Laboratories Inc. in Lima, Peru and analyzed by a 50g fire assay and AAS finish. Three 50g aliquots are taken for samples in the mineralized zone and one aliquot is taken in fresh rocks. The average grade of the three aliquots is used to determine the final grade of the mineralized sample.

Certified standards, non-certified blanks and field duplicates are inserted into the sample stream at regular intervals, so that QA/QC accounted for about 10% of the total samples. Results are routinely evaluated for accuracy, precision, and contamination.

Lavras Gold has been targeting larger intersections of greater than 0.25 g/t gold. Intersections that are lower than this threshold may provide exploration insight and may therefore be disclosed. The Company maintains a robust QAQC program that includes the collection and analysis of duplicate samples and the insertion of blanks and standards (certified reference material).

Disclaimer

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively "forward-looking statements"). Forward-Looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", "budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company's further 2025 drill plans and future results at the LDS Project are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-Looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - First Lithium Minerals Corp. (CSE: FLM) (OTC Pink: FLMCF) (FSE: X28) ("First Lithium Minerals" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the discovery of the gold anomaly at its 100% owned Lidstone Prospect (the "Lidstone" or the "Prospect") in northwestern Ontario.

First Lithium Minerals conducted its first reconnaissance field exploration at Lidstone in October 2024 by visiting the property and collecting rock samples. In total, 54 rock samples were collected from outcrops of interest for gold, lithium, copper and nickel.

The Lidstone property occurs proximal to the boundary of the metasedimentary dominated English River Basin with the greenstone and plutonic complexes of the Uchi Domain. Lithologies within the Lidstone properties consist of metasedimentary units including metagreywacke, metasiltstone and meta-argillite with minor iron formations, migmatized supracrustal rocks, mafic to intermediate greenstone belt of basaltic/andesitic flows, tuffs and breccias.

The outcrop sampling data from collected LCT pegmatites did not result in new Li pegmatite targets as the assay data returned a lack of anomalous Li, Cs, Ta, Nb assay results. The Company will conduct a further geological analysis and revise its LCT pegmatites exploration program.

The results of the first field exploration on the prospect showed, however, potential for gold mineralization. A sample from a white / translucent, barren quartz vein returned 0.272 g/t Au (Figure 1). The sample and surrounding geology will be further investigated for potential economic gold mineralization on the Lidstone property in the 2025 field season.

Figure 1. Field photograph of sample F730305 taken from a quartz vein that returned 0.272 g/t Au

Figure 2. Grab sample locations from the 2024 Lidstone exploration program overlain on geological interpretation

Rob Saltsman, CEO and Director of First Lithium Minerals, commented: "Our field exploration results at Lidstone are highly encouraging and deliver a new thesis that gold mineralization might be present in the area of the prospect. This is not entirely surprising since northwestern Ontario is an established gold mining district. We are currently conducting detailed geologic research and analysis of the results in the prospect area and eager to commence more extensive exploration for gold and lithium in the upcoming exploration season."

The exploration work was conducted by Bayside Geoscience of Thunder Bay, Ontario. The Company is planning to follow up on the exploration for gold and LCT pegmatites at its Lidstone Prospect in Q2/Q3 2025.

QA/QC

Grab samples were collected by field personnel utilizing rock hammers and chisels. Each sample was accompanied by a detailed description of lithology, alteration and mineralization and geolocated utilizing a handheld Garmin GPSMap 64sx GPS. 1-2kg rock samples were placed into poly bags along with a unique sample tag and sealed with a zip tie in the field.

Field personnel personally transported all samples from the 2024 program to AGAT Laboratories in Thunder Bay. Assay preparation consisted drying <5kg, crushing the sample to a powder where 75% passed through a 2 mm sieve. The sample is then mechanically split into 250g and further pulverized where 85% passing through a 75m sieve. 5 samples were then analyzed by Fire Assay in Thunder Bay, following completion all 54 prepared samples were then shipped to AGAT Laboratories in Calgary (3801 21st Street NE, Calgary, AB) for further analysis. Samples were analyzed by either one or two of four methods, 1. Fire Assay - AAS finish (202-051) (Quartz vein samples F730305, F730316), 2. Fire Assay - ICP-OES finish (202-055) (Gabbro samples F730328, F730329, F730330), 3. 4 Acid Digest - ICP-OES finish (201-070) (Quartz vein and Gabbro samples F730305, F730316, F730328, F730329, F730330), 4. Sodium Peroxide Fusion with ICP-OES and ICP-MS finish (201-378) (Granite and Pegmatite samples F730301-F730304, F730306-F730315, F730317-F730327, F730331- F730354). AGAT inserted certified reference material, pulp duplicates and prep duplicates into the sample stream as part of their QAQC program.

Grab samples are selective in nature and may not be representative of the overall mineralization or characteristics of the bedrock geology from which they were sampled.

About First Lithium Minerals

First Lithium Minerals is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company. The Company is exploring for lithium and alkali metals at its 100% owned OCA Project comprised of approximately 5,875ha of mineral exploration concessions located in the salars of Ollague and Ascotan in the Antofagasta Region of northern Chile. Two property-wide geophysical surveys identified priority exploration drill targets for potential brine mineralization. The Company is currently planning its inaugural drilling program at the Salar de Ascotan pending obtaining required drilling permits and licences. First Lithium Minerals is also exploring for gold and critical metals at its 100% owned Lidstone project comprised of 17,300ha of mining claims in northwestern Ontario, Canada.

Additional information about the Company is available on the Company's website: www.firstlithium.ca

Qualified Person

Steven Flank, P.Geo, M.Sc is the designated Qualified Person for this news release within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and verified that the technical information contained herein is accurate and approves of the written disclosure of the same. Mr. Flank is a Professional Geoscientist in good standing with the Professional Geoscientists Ontario (PGO) and is the President and Principal Geologist of Bayside Geoscience.

For further information please contact:

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any such forward-looking information may be identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "contemplates", "believes", "projects", "plans", and similar expressions. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: prospecting and exploration activities, geological, geophysical, and geochemical surveys, its results and interpretation, studies and interpretations of historical exploration and geological information, drill target definition, permitting, licences, environmental laws and regulations, changes in government regulations and laws, obtaining social licence to explore and operate, community engagements, timing of exploration activities, the discovery and delineation of mineral deposits/resources/reserves, general business, economic, competitive, reliance on third parties, the actual results of operations, and other risks of the natural resources industry. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Kingsmen Resources Ltd. (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRF) ("Kingsmen" or the "Company") is pleased to report additional results from its continuing exploration program on its 100% owned Las Coloradas project, which is in the Parral mining district of the Central Mexican Silver Belt, Chihuahua Mexico.

The Silvia and La Plata zones are located on the 2,500 meter-long, NE-trending zone of structures that lies to the north of the NW-trending Soledad/Soledad II structures/vein systems. The Silvia zone is located at the intersection of the Silvia-La Plata zones and the Soledad structures/vein systems. The La Plata zone contains NE, NW and N-trending structures/veins. N-trending structures/vein systems are unusual and may, in part, be reflecting buried quartz porphyry (QP) intrusives.

The Company completed a review of the geochemistry of samples collected from the Silvia and La Plata zones to ensure maximum value is extracted from the geochemical data base in defining exploration +/- drill targets. A number of pathfinder elements vary significantly with silver. These variations are interpreted to indicate different pulses of mineralization and possibly indications of different styles of mineralization along and at depth in the two structures.

President, Scott Emerson, commented: "We have now completed geochemical sampling over our targeted zones. As previously noted on the Soledad structures and now at Silvia and Plata, the presence of high-grade samples hosted in intrusive, volcanic and sedimentary rocks confirm these are highly prospective areas for drilling in our upcoming drilling campaign."

The variation of a number of elements with silver is presented on Figures 1 to 10. Figure 1 shows silver values (previously reported) for all samples collected on the Silvia and La Plata zones. Its distribution is related to the NE-trending and NW-trending structures/vein systems. Lead (Figure 2) is more restricted in its distribution but it does track intrusive/volcanic or sediment contacts in the La Plata zone. In contrast, the zinc values more closely track the distribution of silver (Figure 3). Copper values are very low throughout but it does track silver (Figure 4). Gold values (Figure 5) indicate areas of enrichment with silver in the north-centre of La Plata, in a vein-structure zone in Silvia and in the Soledad II zone. Antimony (Figure 6), a key pathfinder element, shows a strong distribution in the central Silvia - La Plata zones where silver is weakly developed suggesting the potential for blind silver mineralization. It also tracks gold in this area. Tellurium (Figure 7) highlights intrusives/structures in south-central La Plata and in the central Silvia-La Plata zones. Bismuth tracks silver in the central Silvia-La Plata zones and in the Soledad II structure/vein system (Figure 8). Tellurium and bismuth are useful in identifying intrusion-related gold deposits. Mercury generally tracks silver, antimony, tellurium and locally gold (Figure 9). Mercury is highly mobile and often forms a halo around gold deposits. It is particularly useful in epithermal precious metal systems. Arsenic (Figure 10) has a widespread distribution that tracks silver, antimony, tellurium and gold. Arsenic is one of the most reliable pathfinder elements for precious metals. Its presence in all samples is significant.

Figure 1. Silver analyses

Figure 2. Lead analyses

Figure 4. Copper analyses

Figure 6. Antimony analyses

Figure 8. Bismuth analyses

Figure 10. Arsenic analyses

All samples were analyzed by ALS Chemex, Chihuahua. All samples were assayed for gold by fire assay with an ICP-AES finish. All samples were also analyzed for 35 elements by aqua regia extraction with ICP-AES finish.

About Las Coloradas

The Las Coloradas Project (8.5 km2 -3.3 sq miles) represents a consolidation of a historic mining district which covers numerous silver-gold-lead-zinc-copper mines previously exploited by ASARCO (American Smelting and Refining Company), the U.S. based subsidiary of Grupo Mexico.

Las Coloradas is in the Parral mining district of the Central Mexican Silver Belt, and is located approximately 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Hidalgo de Parral and 40 kilometers east of the San Francisco de Oro and Santa Barbara mining districts where several old major mines are located, such as La Prieta, Veta Colorada, Palmilla, Esmeralda, San Francisco del Oro and Santa Barbara. As well, new major mining projects are currently being explored in the district; Cordero (Discovery Silver Corp.), 35 kms north of Parral, and La Cigarra (Kootenay Silver Inc.), 35 kms northwest of Parral. Click here to see locator map: https://www.kingsmenresources.com/area-history

Qualified Person

Kieran Downes, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure set out in this news release.

About Kingsmen Resources

Kingsmen Resources is a mineral exploration company focused on advancing its 100% held Las Coloradas Project located in the prolific mining district of Parral Mexico. The project hosts the historic past producing high-grade silver mine, Las Coloradas. It is considered to be prospective for hosting further precious metal deposits, being on the same structural and stratigraphic belts that host numerous other, on-trend, high-grade deposits. In addition, the company has a 1% NSR on the La Trini claims which form part of the Los Ricos North project operated by GoGold Resources Inc. in Mexico. Kingsmen is a publicly-traded company (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRF) and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia.

On behalf of the Board,



Signed: "Scott Emerson"

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statement

Certain disclosure contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. These statements may relate to this news release and other matters identified in the Company's public filings. In making the forward-looking statements the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. These statements address future events and conditions and, as such, involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to: the political environment in which the Company operates continuing to support the development and operation of mining projects; the threat associated with outbreaks of viruses and infectious diseases; risks related to negative publicity with respect to the Company or the mining industry in general; planned work programs; permitting; and community relations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news.
VANCOUVER, BC, March 3, 2025 /CNW/ - Nuclear Fuels Inc. (CSE: NF) (OTCQX: NFUNF) ("Nuclear Fuels" or the "Company") announced today the acquisition of the TenSleep Uranium Project, located approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers) west of the town of Kaycee, in Johnson County, Wyoming. The TenSleep Project is a unique uranium project in Wyoming, displaying geological characteristics similar to the deposits in Saskatchewan's prolific Athabasca Basin rather than the typical roll front sandstone-hosted uranium deposits of the United States. Athabasca or "unconformity" uranium deposits occur along the contact of two different rock types in the vicinity of one or more high-angle faults providing the pathway for the mineralizing fluids to deposit uranium along the contact. These deposits are typically larger and higher grade than roll-front types. The Company is currently developing an exploration program with drilling planned for late 2025 or early 2026.

Greg Huffman, Chief Executive Officer, stated: "The TenSleep Uranium Project represents an exciting addition to Nuclear Fuels' portfolio given it is located less than 20 miles from our priority Kaycee Uranium Project in Wyoming, and is known to host uranium mineralization based on historical production and exploration work. The fact that uranium mineralization at TenSleep occurs in a geological setting similar to the very high grade unconformity-hosted uranium ore bodies in Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin, yet has never been explored with this model in mind, presents an excellent opportunity for the discovery of an exciting new type of potentially In-Situ Recovery-amenable uranium in Wyoming."

To view project maps, please visit: https://bit.ly/4kczDnT .

Specific Highlights Include:

The Jeri-Marie mine was an underground operation located on the TenSleep Project, extracting uranium ore via an adit in the late 1950s;

Outcropping uranium mineralization on the TenSleep Project is associated with the contact between basal sandstones of the TenSleep Formation and the younger overlying Phosphoria Formation, an organic rich marine unit containing siltstone, sandstone, limestone and dolomite enriched in a number of elements including uranium. Similar "unconformity" geological contacts are important host environments for the high grade uranium ore bodies found in Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin, commonly referred to as "unconformity-type uranium deposits;"

Basin, commonly referred to as "unconformity-type uranium deposits;" The TenSleep Formation is approximately 380 feet thick and composed of fine- to medium-grained sandstone. Exploration drilling on the TenSleep Project in the early 1970s demonstrated that both the upper and lower contacts of the TenSleep Formation host uranium mineralization believed to be leached from the Phosphoria Formation above. The high-grade unconformity-type uranium deposits of the Athabasca Basin also occur at the lower contact of a thick sandstone sequence;

Basin also occur at the lower contact of a thick sandstone sequence; The majority of the historic drilling was shallow in nature to test only the upper zone of mineralization, only ten holes penetrating the entire TenSleep Formation. Eight of the ten deeper holes were pervasively mineralized or anomalous at the lower contact (unconformity) of the TenSleep Formation; 1

The lower contact of the TenSleep Formation represents an exciting target for additional unconformity-style mineralization, an exploration concept which has not been previously targeted at the TenSleep Project;

In-Situ Recovery ("ISR") offers a minimally intrusive, eco-friendly, and economically competitive approach to mineral extraction replacing the need for conventional mining.

The TenSleep Uranium Project

The Company acquired the road-accessible TenSleep Uranium Project via the staking of 188 mineral claims and the granting of two state mineral leases, for a total area of approximately 3,000 acres.

Uranium mineralization on the Project was originally discovered, explored and extracted on a small scale at the shallow underground Jeri-Marie mine by private operators in the late 1950s. Aquarius Resources, Inc. conducted the first modern exploration drilling on the Project in 1971 and 1972 with their joint venture partner, Northwestern Energy Company, a subsidiary of Montana Power Company. The historic drill program consisted of at least 111 drill holes, with 17 holes drilled for stratigraphic information and ten holes testing the entire approximately 380 foot thick TenSleep Formation. This drill program identified two zones of uranium mineralization, one at the top of the TenSleep Formation along the unconformable contact (i.e. the boundary between rocks of different ages) with the younger Permian-aged Phosphoria Formation, and a second zone at the basal unconformable contact of the TenSleep Formation with the limestones of the Mississippian-aged Madison Limestone.

Following the recognition and development of the unconformity model of uranium deposition in the Athabasca Basin later in the 1970s, Cherokee Exploration Inc. staked the TenSleep Project in 1978. In early 1980 they acquired copies of the available data from the Aquarius drilling, including maps, cross sections, and logs for 96 holes, totaling 36,000 feet. Based on this data, the Cherokee reports from the early 1980s were the first to recognize the potential for unconformity style uranium mineralization at the TenSleep Project and recommended an exploration program targeting this unconformity-hosted model. However, these recommendations were never followed up on due to market conditions. Nuclear Fuels is currently reviewing the historical data for the TenSleep Project to develop an exploration program that would include delineating the extent of the unconformity style uranium known to occur at both the top and bottom contacts of the TenSleep formation. Additional testing would include assessing the uranium mineralization for its amenability to In-Situ Recovery ("ISR").

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mark Travis, CPG., a contractor to the Company, and a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101.

1 Supplement to Growth Minerals Corp.'s Red Fork Prospect Report for Cherokee Exploration, Inc., October 1978



About Nuclear Fuels Inc.

Nuclear Fuels Inc. is a uranium exploration company advancing early-stage, district-scale In-Situ Recovery ("ISR") amenable uranium projects towards production in the United States of America. Leveraging extensive proprietary historical databases and deep industry expertise, Nuclear Fuels is well-positioned in a sector poised for significant and sustained growth on the back of strong government support. Nuclear Fuels has consolidated the Kaycee district under single-company control for the first time since the early 1980s. Currently planning its 2025 drill program following successful 2023 and 2024 drilling, the Company aims to expand on historic resources across a 35-mile trend with over 430 miles of mapped roll-fronts defined by 3,800 drill holes. The Company's strategic relationship with enCore Energy Corp., America's Clean Energy Company, offers a mutually beneficial "pathway to production," with enCore owning an equity interest and retaining the right to back-in to 51% ownership in the flagship Kaycee Project in Wyoming's prolific Powder River Basin.

W: www.nfuranium.com

Forward-Looking Information



The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Certain information in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements under applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "potential", "believe", "intend" or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements relating to planned exploration programs and the results of additional exploration work in seeking to establish mineral resources as defined in NI43-101 on any of our properties. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks, including, without limitation, risks associated with the completing planned exploration programs and the results of those programs; the ability to access additional capital to fund planned and future operations; regulatory risks including exploration permitting; risks associated with title to our mineral projects; the ability of the company to implement its business strategies; and other risks including risks contained in documents available for review at www.sedar.com under the Company's profile. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Miata Metals Corp. (CSE: MMET) (FSE: 8NQ) ("Miata" or the "Company") is pleased to present further exploration results from the on-going, 2025 field mapping and sampling program at the Sela Creek Gold Project in Suriname (Sela Creek). The Company further announces that the drill crew is on site at Sela Creek and preparing to drill the first hole of its maiden 10,000 m diamond core drilling program this week.

Highlights:

A grab sample * with grains of visible gold at the Puma target has yielded 39.16 g/t Au

with grains of visible gold at the Puma target has yielded 39.16 g/t Au Grab samples * from a newly opened pit at the central Puma target include 2.32 g/t Au and 5.92 g/t Au

from a newly opened pit at the central Puma target include 2.32 g/t Au and 5.92 g/t Au A grab sample * from a newly opened pit 1,000 m east of Puma and outside the predictive vein model yielded 7.03 g/t Au, extending the Puma gold trend to 3.7 km

from a newly opened pit 1,000 m east of Puma and outside the predictive vein model yielded 7.03 g/t Au, extending the Puma gold trend to 3.7 km The Company collected 63 rock samples with an average of 0.93 g/t Au in the latest batch of sampling

The diamond drill and drill crew are now on site and the Company expects to drill its first hole this week

This second batch of samples continues to inform our predictive vein model and targeting strategy, stated Dr. Jaap Verbaas, CEO of Miata. The drill rig and full drill crew from Major Drilling are now on site and will start testing the Stranger target this week, before moving to the Golden Hand target. Our entire exploration team has done amazing work to build up to this moment on a timeline of less than 5 months from closing of the acquisition to the start of drilling. The geological team has also found mineralization 1,000 m east of the interpreted extent of the Puma target, highlighting how much exploration upside there still is outside of our current interpretation of the targets.

Sampling and Reconaissance Mapping at the Puma, Golden Hand, and Stranger Targets

Figure 1. Predictive vein model over Golden Hand, Stranger, and Puma showing key samples discussed in the text. Note that only certain well-mineralized (>1 g/t Au) samples are depicted in this image. All channel samples, as well as grab samples depicted in grey are historical in nature and were not verified by the Company.

Operations Update

The crew from Major Drilling is now on site at Sela Creek and drill pads are being prepared on the Stranger and Golden Hand targets. Camp construction has accelerated over the past week and the camps 28-people bunk house is almost complete. The Company has also installed a water filtration system to allow for drinking water sourced from site, avoiding the expense of shipping drinking water. The goal at the Miata camp on Sela Creek is a camp capacity of 35 people to be able to expand the program to accommodate multiple drills as needed.

QA/QC

Samples were analyzed at the FiLab in Paramaribo, an ISO certified laboratory that inserts blanks and standards at regular intervals. All QA/QC samples yielded acceptable values.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Jacob Verbaas, P.Geo., a director of the Company and Qualified Person as defined under the definitions of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

*Investors are cautioned that grab samples are inherently selective and serve to prove the presence of mineralization only.

About Miata Metals Corp.

Miata Metals Corp. (CSE: MMET). is a Canadian mineral exploration company listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange. The Company is focused on the acquisition, exploration, and development of mineral properties. The Company holds a 70% interest in the ~215km2 Sela Creek Gold Project in Suriname and a 70% beneficial interest in the Nassau Gold Project in Suriname. Miata also holds an additional option to acquire a full 100% interest in the Sela Creek Gold Project, and an option to earn 100% interest in the Cabin Lake Property in the Omineca Mining Division, British Columbia. The Company continuously evaluates opportunities to acquire interest in additional prospective exploration stage mineral properties.

On Behalf of the Board

Dr. Jacob (Jaap) Verbaas, P.Geo | CEO and Director

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

+1 778 488 9754

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements as well as historical information. Readers should not rely on information in this summary for any purpose other than for gaining general knowledge of the Company. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the scope and timing of the Companys drilling programs. The words "expected", "will" and similar expressions are intended to be among the statements that identify forward looking statements. Although the Company believes that its expectations as reflected in any forward-looking statements, are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties and no assurance can be given that actual results will be consistent with these forward- looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates, opinions or other factors should change.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed this press release and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 3, 2025) - Mogotes Metals Inc. (TSXV: MOG) (FSE: OY4) ("Mogotes", or the "Company") is pleased to report on further positive observations from ongoing reconnaissance of the new Vicuna District claims recently optioned, and decision to proceed with a geophysical survey to test new alteration areas. Highlights below:

1) Reconnaissance of the recently optioned Vicuna District claims in Chile revealing additional previously unsampled breccia zones and structures with intense quartz-alunite alteration, in addition a significant area of alunite-quartz structures overprinting porphyry style quartz veining has been identified on the extension of the undrilled Cumbre target into Chile. Alteration and brecciation is best developed within the Chilean section of the undrilled Mogotes Meseta prospect located immediately south of Filo Del Sol Cu-Au-Ag deposit (see Figure 1 below).

Figure 1: New Mogotes Optioned Ground Directly South of Filo del Sol

2) Combined these occurrences of breccia and overprinted porphyry style veining outline a NW tending corridor of advanced argillic alteration lying along the projected trace of the trans-orgen Macho Muerto Fault zone that management believe has played a key role in localizating mineralization in this selection of the Miocene mineral belt.



Figure 2 - Photo Highlights

3) Laboratory assays will be required to determine if these previously unsampled alteration zones are mineralised, however, it is consider encouraging that as previously reported, hydrothermal breccias and vuggy silica alteration from the Argentine side of the Mogotes Meseta prospect have returned rock chip assays up to 1.48 g/t Au and 3.6 g/t Ag, consistent with HSE style of mineralization (See news release: TSXV: MOG, Vicuna Exploration Update)

Figure 3 - Photo Highlights B

4) Mogotes interprets the style and areal extent of these new alteration zones as confirmation that the Meseta and Cumbre prospects extend into the new Vicuna district claims and has engaged Geophysical Contractors to undertake an approximately 4 km2 3D vector IP/MT and deep penetrating IP/MT survey to test for extensions of the undrilled Meseta and Cumbre geophysical anomalies into Chile (Figure 4 below).



Figure 4 - Geophysics to be Acquired on New Claims

Technical Recap

Mogotes Metals controls approximately 10,000 Ha of claims at its Filo Sur Project straddling a north - south section of the late Oligocene to Miocene age Volcanic Arc known as the prolifically mineralized Vicuna Metallogenic Belt1 along the Chile - Argentine border region.

The 25 to 30 km long Vicuna section of the Belt, that is predominantly controlled by NGEx Minerals and Filo Corp, now owned by BHP and Lundin Mining, is the epicenter of recent large Cu-Au-Ag discoveries containing a string of middle Miocene age (approx. 13 to 17 Ma1) PCD and HSE copper-gold-Silver epithermal deposits at Los Helados, Lunanhuasi and Filo Del Sol deposits.

Mogotes has systematically consolidated an approximately 10,000 Ha claims package at the Company's Filo Sur project that hosts the southern projection of the prolifically mineralized Vicuna Belt, (Figure 1) that adjoins the Filo Del Sol Cu-Au-Ag project.

Recent Filo Corp. drilling demonstrates that the Filo Del Sol - Tamberias mineralization remains open to the south on their claims with the recently announced drill hole FSDH116 reporting 610.0m at 0.39 g/t Au, 0.15% Cu and 2.2 g/t Ag from 22.0m, including 58m at 0.94 g/t Au3. This drill hole is located only 1.2 km north of Mogotes Filo Sur property boundary and on trend for the Company's priority Meseta and Cumbre Targets.

Mogotes Worldview3 satellite alteration processing demonstrates advanced argillic alteration patterns associated with the Filo Del Sol - Tamberas Cu-Au-Ag mineralization, project into the Mogotes Filo Sur project (TSXV: MOG, July 8, 2024. Vicuna Exploration Update: Filo Sur Project - positive initial results from the New Filon Alunita and Rincon prospects).

Mogotes geophysics has also outlined large scale IP and MT anomalies at both Meseta and Cumbre that may be indicative of concealed HSE and PCD style mineralization (TSXV: MOG, July 8, 2024. Vicuna Exploration Update: Filo Sur Project - positive initial results from the New Filon Alunita and Rincon prospects). In both targets the geophysical anomalies with associated surface alteration and geochemistry remain open to the west, potentially extending into the CMP claims.

1 Perello, et al., 2023. Geology of Porphyry Cu-Au and Epithermal Cu-Au-Ag Mineralization at Filo del Sol, Argentina-Chile: Extreme Telescoping During Andean Uplift

2 Sillitoe, et al., 2019. Geology of the Josemaria Porphyry Copper-Gold Deposit, Argentina: Formation, Exhumation, and Burial in Two Million Years

3 TSX: FIL. Nov 21, 2024. Filo Drills 1,270m at 0.92% CuEq in Aurora and 529m at 0.97% CuEq in Bonita

About Mogotes Metals Inc.

Mogotes Metals Inc. is a mineral exploration company exploring for copper and gold in the prospective Vicuna district of Argentina and Chile. Mogotes flagship project, Filo Sur, adjoins the large Filo del Sol copper-gold-silver discovery, and is along the N-S trending belt with the Filo Del Sol - Aurora and NGEx Minerals Lunahuasi and Los Helados copper-gold deposits.

Follow Us

Twitter: https://x.com/mogotesmetals

Additional Information

The information contained in this news release was accurate at the time of dissemination, but may be superseded by subsequent news release(s). The Company is under no obligation, nor does it intend to update or revise the forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical disclosure for the Filo Sur project included in this news release have been reviewed and approved by Stephen Nano who is the Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Nano is a Director and Technical Advisor for the Company.

Mogotes applies industry standard exploration sampling methodologies and techniques. All geochemical soil, stream, rock and drill samples are collected under the supervision of the company's geologists in accordance with industry practice. Geochemical assays are obtained and reported under a quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) program. Samples are dispatched to an ISO 9001:2008 accredited laboratory in Argentina for analysis. Assay results from drill core samples may be higher, lower or similar to results obtained from surface rock, channel, trench samples due to surficial oxidation and enrichment processes or due to natural geological grade variations in the primary mineralization.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain statements made and information contained herein in the news release constitutes "forward- looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking information"). The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this news release. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information. Generally, this forward-looking information can frequently, but not always, be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "projects", "budgets", "targets" "assumes", "strategy", "goals", "objectives", "potential", "possible", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, conditions or results "will", "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will be taken", "will occur" or "will be achieved" or the negative connotations thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements.

No assurance can be given that this information will prove to be correct and such forward looking information included in this news release should not be relied upon. In particular, this press release contains forward- looking information pertaining to assumptions made in the interpretation of drill results, geology, grade, geochemistry, potential implications of geophysics interpretations, and continuity of mineral deposits; expectations regarding access and demand for equipment, skilled labour and services needed for exploration and development of mineral properties; and that activities will not be adversely disrupted or impeded by exploration, development, operating, regulatory, political, community, economic, environmental and/or healthy and safety risks. In addition, this news release may contain forward-looking statements or information pertaining to: potential exploration upside at the Filo Sur Project, including the extent and significance of the porphyry copper-gold system and the prospectivity of exploration targets; exploration plans and expenditures,; the ability of the Company to conduct its field programs as planned; the success of future exploration activities; potential for resource expansion; ability to build shareholder value; expectations with regard to adding to its Mineral Reserves or Resources through exploration; ability to execute planned work programs; plans or ability to mobilize or add additional drill rigs; timing or anticipated results of laboratory results; government regulation of mining activities; environmental risks; unanticipated reclamation expenses; title disputes or claims; limitations on insurance coverage; and other risks and uncertainties. While the Company anticipates continuing its exploration program until May, it may encounter unexpected logistics, drilling and other challenges, costs, or delays that could prevent the Company from completing the program on the expected timeline or at all. Any drilling is dependent on pending results from this year's program and the Company securing additional funding. This program could be delayed or not be carried out at all.

Although The Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are based on assumptions that are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since The Company can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in the Company's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators, available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as among other things: general business, economic and mining industry conditions; foreign exchange rates; geological conditions; the supply and demand for commodities; that financing will be available if and when needed on reasonable terms and that the Company will not experience any material labour dispute, accident, or failure of plant or equipment; the stability and predictability of the political environments and legal and regulatory frameworks; the ability of the Company to obtain, maintain, renew and/or extend required permits, licences, authorizations and/or approvals from the appropriate regulatory authorities; that contractual counterparties perform as agreed; and the ability of the Company to continue to obtain qualified staff and equipment in a timely and cost- efficient manner to meet its needs. These factors are not, and should not be construed as being, exhaustive. Although the company has attempted to identify important factors that would cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All of the forward-looking information contained in this document is qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. These factors are not, and should not be construed as being, exhaustive. Statements relating to "mineral resources" are deemed to be forward-looking information, as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions that the mineral resources described can be profitably produced in the future. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of the Company's operating environment.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coppernico Metals Inc. (TSX: COPR, OTCQB: CPPMF) (Coppernico or the Company), is pleased to provide an update on its ongoing diamond drilling program, being conducted through its wholly-owned private Peruvian subsidiary, Sombrero Minerales SAC, at its Sombrero Project in Peru.

Highlights

The Company has drilled approximately 7,100 metres ("m") and is currently drilling its 18th hole. Pending assay results are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

The Company has identified two new high-potential exploration targets (Figure 1). The Tipicancha epithermal target, southwest of the Ccascabamba target area. The Antapampa target, an iron-skarn occurrence north of the Nioc target area.

The Company is advancing expanded permits to incorporate key targets including Fierrazo and Tipicancha, with a temporary drilling pause after the 20th hole to optimize capital allocation and review data before resuming drilling.

Figure 1: General location map of the current exploration targets.

Ivan Bebek, Chair and CEO of Coppernico, stated, Drilling to date has been completed under budget and on time, and is continuously providing valuable insights into our thesis that a large, mineralized skarn system could be present. Our knowledge of the controls of the system and the vectoring towards key mineralized areas of the skarn continues to improve, while programs have also identified new robust targets for discovery.

Data collected to date also suggests that high-priority targets lie just outside our current drill permit boundaries and we are actively working to expand the current permits. Fierrazo, lying immediately outside the permitted area, remains our most compelling target due to the fact that it is the main part of the Sombrero Skarn system that outcrops. The Fierrazo target has long and high-grade channel samples as well as historical drill hole intervals. We are advancing permits for this area and will provide updates in the near future as we work to access this prospective zone.

We are currently waiting on assays from 4 interesting holes from the Hojota area and are drilling 1 of 3 remaining key holes focused on significant new targets that have seen minimal to no drilling. The 20th hole marks the conclusion of Phase 1 drilling; we will pause fieldwork as we wait for pending assays, additional permits, and update our technical knowledge base before proceeding further.

The identification of the Tipicancha and Antapampa targets are significant as they also offer prospective targets with scale for considerable copper-gold discoveries at Sombrero. With a 100,000-hectare land position, we have barely scratched the surface of this district.

Drilling Program

Coppernico has successfully completed approximately 7,100 m of drilling to date having recently commenced hole 18, with ongoing work focusing on key targets within the Ccascabamba target area.

Phase 1

Focused exclusively on the Ccascabamba target area, Phase 1 includes Hojota, Corrales, Chumpi, and Escondida targets (Figure 2A). Holes 14 through 17 have intersected mineralization suggesting a potential extension of the high-priority zone previously identified in hole 4 (See press release dated November 12, 2024). However, while initial observations are encouraging, assay results are still pending and are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

The next two planned drill holes are strategically designed based on the insight gained from previous drilling and are designed to test significant new targets that have yet to be drilled. With the completion of the 20th hole, Phase 1 drilling will conclude, allowing for a temporary pause in field activities. During this period, the Company will await pending assay results, advance permit approvals, and refine its technical understanding to optimize the next phase of exploration.

Phase 2

The Phase 1 drilling campaign has delivered results in line with the Companys exploration thesis, with intercepts confirming the presence of mineralization and each additional drill hole helping vector towards higher-grade zones. Given the observed correlation between magnetic anomalies and causative intrusion boundaries with potential mineralized zones, Coppernico is actively working to extend the permitted area to further evaluate this exploration thesis (Figure 2B) ahead of commencing field operations in Phase 2.

Figure 2: Drilling program to date and permitted drilling area at the Ccascabamba target area within the Sombrero Project.

New Exploration Targets: Tipicancha and Antapampa

The Company has identified two new high-potential exploration targets (Figure 1)  expanding discovery opportunities within the project area  through detailed mapping and sampling which has outlined the Tipicancha epithermal target southwest of the Ccascabamba target area (Figure 3), and a newly discovered iron-skarn occurrence has been located approximately 1.5 km north of the Nioc target area, referred to as the Antapampa target (Figure 6).

Tipicancha: A Large Epithermal System with Porphyry Potential

Recent mapping and rock sampling at Tipicancha have outlined a significant alteration zone covering approximately 1 km by 2 km (Figure 4). The area shows classic signs of an epithermal system, with potential for a deeper porphyry connection as discussed below.

Figure 3: A) General geologic map of the Tipicancha target. B) Quartz-kaolinite altered volcanics with ferricrete ledges and subcrops of massive pyrite. C) Massive pyrite with copper-rich evaporite. D) Sulfur and copper-rich evaporites coating unconsolidated sediments. E) Massive pyrite with covellite coatings.

Key Findings

Geologic Indicators : Lower elevations feature outcrops of massive pyrite, areas with stockwork pyrite veining, and occasional porphyritic dikes, further suggesting a component of vertical zonation (Figure 5).

: Lower elevations feature outcrops of massive pyrite, areas with stockwork pyrite veining, and occasional porphyritic dikes, further suggesting a component of vertical zonation (Figure 5). Extensive Alteration: Well-developed alteration patterns characteristic of an epithermal system, with higher temperature alteration occurring more towards the center and lower elevations (Figures 4 and 5).

Well-developed alteration patterns characteristic of an epithermal system, with higher temperature alteration occurring more towards the center and lower elevations (Figures 4 and 5). Geochemical Zonation: A 400 m by 1,500 m anomaly with an assemblage of elevated gold, silver and molybdenum occurring over a large area at higher elevations, while anomalous copper, gold and molybdenum values are observed at lower elevations, and aligning with the most altered zones (Figure 4).

A 400 m by 1,500 m anomaly with an assemblage of elevated gold, silver and molybdenum occurring over a large area at higher elevations, while anomalous copper, gold and molybdenum values are observed at lower elevations, and aligning with the most altered zones (Figure 4). Expansion Potential: The target remains open to the north, with ongoing mapping and sampling aimed at fully delineating its extent (Figures 3, 4 and 5).

Figure 4: Mineral assemblages maps at Tipicancha.

Lower elevation portions of the system exhibit key indicators of temperature increasing with depth including an extensive zone of massive pyrite, stockwork pyrite veining, and the presence of porphyritic dikes (Figure 5). These features suggest a potential transition from an epithermal system to a porphyry environment at depth.

Alteration at Tipicancha is both laterally and vertically zoned, showing a well-developed hydrothermal system. Surface exposures reveal broad zones of silicification, kaolinite, montmorillonite, and native sulfur  typical of an epithermal system. These zones transition to areas dominated by alunite, kaolinite, and illite, along with quartz and vuggy silica, occurring within the most intensely altered regions generally at lower elevations (Figures 4 and 5).

Complementing the alteration patterns, rock geochemistry exhibits similar zonation. Anomalous values of gold, silver, and molybdenum occur over broad areas associated with lower-temperature alteration. Coinciding with the strongest and highest temperature alteration observed to date are anomalies of copper, gold, +/- molybdenum and a distinct lack of silver (Figures 4 and 5).

Figure 5: Schematic long section through Tipicancha showing vertical zonation patterns.

Tipicancha represents a new epithermal-porphyry-style target, distinct from  and younger than  the Eocene-aged skarn and porphyry systems at Ccascabamba, Nioc, and Good Lucky. The alteration system and porphyritic dikes cross-cut young volcanic rocks  the same units that overlie skarn mineralization elsewhere on the property.

The Tipicancha target falls within the Huancasancos community, where Coppernico holds an existing exploration agreement. Further exploration in this area will focus on refining the systems full extent and testing deeper zones for porphyry potential.

Antapampa: New Skarn Target Identified

A newly recognized iron-skarn system has been identified over a 1 km by 1 km area, where outcrops and sub-crops of massive hematite-magnetite mineralization are associated with garnet skarn (Figure 6). The mineralization and alteration occur above and near the contact between the Ferrobamba Limestone and the Mara Formation, which is considered a highly prospective setting elsewhere on the property. This new area will be mapped and sampled in more detail in the coming months to better define its extents and to understand its relationship to the Nioc target area.

Figure 6: A) Initial reconnaissance mapping at Antapampa target. B) Massive magnetite mineralization.

C) Red garnet skarn alteration. D) Altered monzonite intrusion.

This new target is located approximately 1.5 km north of the Nioc target area, where Coppernico initiated surface mapping and sampling in February. Importantly, it is located within the neighbouring community, where the Company is in the advanced stages of negotiating a community access agreement which, once finalized, will pave the way for further exploration in this relatively unexplored area.

Permitting Roadmap

The Company is advancing permit applications to access areas where historical drilling has indicated elevated mineralization values. The EIA-Sd drill permit application, currently in progress, seeks to expand the permitted boundaries and increase the number of drill holes, covering Fierrazo, Tipicancha, Chumpi, and Escondida South targets.

A temporary pause in drilling is planned for after the Company completes its 20th hole and until it secures full drilling access in these areas. This approach aligns with the Companys disciplined capital preservation strategy, ensuring resources are reserved for future drilling in key areas, while allowing the technical team to evaluate results before resuming drilling. Coppernico remains fully funded for its 2025 exploration plans.

Once assay results have been received, the Company will issue a detailed update, presenting a complete assessment of the drilling data. Coppernico will continue to refine its drill targeting through geophysical surveys and structural mapping, further optimizing exploration efforts.

Sombrero Project Featured at PDAC Core Shack

Coppernico is pleased to announce its participation in the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Conference, taking place on March 25, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario. As part of the PDAC Core Shack, the Company is displaying drill core samples from its Sombrero Project at booth #3109A on Sunday, March 2, and Monday, March 3. This dedicated space offers industry professionals and investors a unique opportunity to examine the project's mineralization first-hand, gain deeper insights into its geological potential, and engage directly with CEO Ivan Bebek and Coppernico's technical team.

Technical Disclosure and Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Tim Kingsley, M.Sc., CPG, Coppernicos VP of Exploration, who is a Qualified Person (as defined in NI 43-101).

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ivan Bebek

Chair & CEO

For further information, please contact:

Coppernico Metals Inc.

Phone: +1 778 729 0600

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Website: www.coppernicometals.com

Twitter: @CoppernicoMetal

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/coppernico-metals/

About Coppernico

Coppernico is a mineral exploration company focused on creating value for shareholders and stakeholders through diligent project evaluation and exploration in pursuit of the discovery of world-class copper-gold deposits in the Americas. The Companys management and technical teams have a successful track record of raising capital, discovery and the monetization of exploration successes. The Company's objective is to become a leading advanced copper explorer, and through its wholly-owned private Peruvian subsidiary Sombrero Minerales S.A.C., is currently focused on the Ccascabamba (previously referred to as Sombrero Main) and Nioc target areas within the Sombrero Project in Peru, its flagship project, while regularly reviewing additional premium projects to consider for acquisition.

The Sombrero Project is a land package of approximately 102,000 hectares (1,020 square kilometres) located in the north-western margins of the world-class Andahuaylas-Yauri trend in Peru. It consists of a number of prospective exploration targets characterized by copper-gold skarn and porphyry systems, and precious metal epithermal systems. The Companys NI 43-101 technical report, with an effective date of April 17, 2024, and as filed on SEDAR+ on May 23, 2024, focuses on the Ccascabamba and Nioc target areas of the Sombrero Project.

Coppernico Metals Inc. is currently listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "COPR" and trades on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol CPPMF. More information about the Company can be found on the Companys profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

Cautionary Note

No regulatory organization has approved the contents hereof.

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, forward-looking statements). Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as may, should, anticipate, expect, intend and similar expressions and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the Companys drill plans, identifying targets for future exploration, the potential of the mineralization, the progress and approval of permits, the temporary suspension of drilling and its anticipated resumption, and its financial position in the future. No certainty can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Companys control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers should refer to the risks discussed in the Companys AIF and other continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators, available at www.sedarplus.ca. These factors are not, and should not be construed as being, exhaustive. Accordingly, readers should not place heavy reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this new release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking information and the assumptions made with respect thereto speaks only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information after the date of this news release to conform such information to actual results or to changes in the Companys expectations except as otherwise required by applicable legislation.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. (TSXV:BAY) (OTCQB:ATBHF) ("Aston Bay" or the "Company") is pleased to announce an Initial Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the near-surface mineralization (<120 metres ("m") depth) at the Storm Copper Project ("Storm" or the "Project") on Somerset Island, Nunavut. The MRE includes six near-surface copper (-silver) deposits within the greater Storm Copper area: Cyclone, Chinook, Corona, Cirrus, Lightning Ridge and Thunder.

The Storm Copper Project is a 20/80 unincorporated joint venture between Aston Bay and American West Metals Limited ("American West"), the Project operator. Aston Bay maintains a free carried interest until a decision to mine is made upon completion of a Feasibility Study. The MRE in this announcement was prepared by P&E Mining Consultants Inc. ("P&E") at the request of Aston Bay, independently of American West.

Storm Copper Initial Mineral Resource Estimate Key Highlights

Indicated Mineral Resources: 8.2 million tonnes at an average grade of 1.47% copper (Cu) and 4.5 grams per tonne (g/t) silver (Ag), containing 266.3 million pounds (Mlbs) (121,000 tonnes) of copper and 1.185 million ounces of silver (refer to Table 1 for MRE details) .

Inferred Mineral Resources: 3.3 million tonnes at an average grade of 1.30% Cu and 3.1 g/t Ag, containing 95.4 Mlbs (43,000 tonnes) of copper and 333,600 ounces of silver (refer to Table 1 for MRE details) .

Low-cost development potential : Near-surface Mineral Resources accessed primarily with open-pit mining, accounting for over 90% of contained metal in the MRE. 100% of MRE consists of fresh, chalcocite-dominant copper sulphide with metallurgical testwork, which confirms excellent beneficiation potential, including sorting (see Aston Bay news releases dated August 13, 2024 and April 11, 2022).

Significant growth and expansion opportunities: MRE deposits remain open - All six deposits remain open, offering strong potential for rapid expansion of the Mineral Resource inventory. Cyclone Deeps discovery (2024) - Cyclone-style mineralization located immediately south and faulted down from the existing Cyclone Deposit (1.2% Cu over 10 m from 311 m down hole in drill hole ST24-01; see Aston Bay news release dated September 20, 2024). New high-grade copper discoveries (2024) - The Gap (2.3% Cu over 20 m from 38 m down hole, including 5.3% Cu over 8 m in drill hole SR24-003; see Aston Bay news release dated July 2, 2024), Squall and Hailstorm are located near surface and ready for Mineral Resource definition drilling.

Belt-scale exploration opportunity - <5% of the 110 kilometre ("km") long copper belt has been adequately explored. Priority targets include the Tempest, Tornado, Blizzard and Seabreeze Prospects, where surface copper-zinc gossans have been identified.

Aston Bay's Storm MRE was prepared by P&E, with an effective date of February 7, 2025. The full Technical Report will be filed under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca) within 45 days of this news release, in accordance with NI 43-101 disclosure and reporting requirements.

Thomas Ullrich, Chief Executive Officer of Aston Bay, commented: "We are thrilled to announce our Initial Mineral Resource Estimate for the near-surface copper mineralization at the Storm Copper Project. This robust initial MRE, combined with obvious expansion targets and favorable metallurgical characteristics, reinforces our belief in the potential of Storm Copper to become a world-class asset."

"The near-surface nature of the deposits, combined with the excellent metallurgical characteristics of the chalcocite mineralization, strongly supports the potential for a low-cost, high-margin operation. In addition, the exceptional exploration upside potential along the broader Storm Copper Belt provides a clear path for continued growth. We look forward to advancing Storm with our partners at American West, as work continues toward unlocking its full potential."

This announcement and the Mineral Resource Estimate for the Storm Project contained in it have been prepared solely by Aston Bay based on relevant available information and have not been reviewed or approved by American West, Aston Bay's Storm joint venture partner. American West is the manager of the Storm Joint Venture and holds the majority 80% joint venture interest. Whilst the information in this announcement pertaining to the estimation and reporting of the Mineral Resources has been reviewed and approved by a Qualified Person and the Mineral Resource estimate has been independently reviewed, the Company considers that it is possible that in preparing any future Mineral Resource Estimate or Mineral Reserve Estimate for the Storm Project, American West may adopt different interpretations, assumptions, parameters or plans, or make different judgements, to those used or made by Aston Bay in the Mineral Resource Estimate contained in this announcement.

Notes:

The Mineral Resources were estimated in accordance with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definitions (2014) and Best Practices Guidelines (2019) prepared by the CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions and adopted by the CIM Council. Yungang Wu, M.Sc., P.Geo. of P&E Mining Consultants Inc. is the Qualified Person responsible for the completion of the Mineral Resource Estimation, with an effective date of February 7, 2025. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The quantity and grade of the reported Inferred Resources are uncertain in nature and there has not been sufficient work to define these Inferred Resources as Indicated or Measured Resources. It is reasonably expected that most of the Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Tonnages have been rounded to the nearest 1,000 t. Contained metal values have been rounded to the nearest 100 copper tonnes or 100,000 copper pounds, and to the nearest 100 silver ounces, Totals may not sum due to rounding. Bulk density was assigned based on geological formation. The following median bulk density value for each formation was used: 2.81 g/cm3 (ADMW), 2.78 g/cm3 (BPF), 2.76 g/cm3 (VSM), and 2.68 g/cm3 (Scs). The Mineral Resource Estimation is limited to material contained within estimation domains modelled using a nominal 0.3% copper mineralized envelope. Open pit constrained Mineral Resources are reported within the constraining pit shells, applying a lower cut-off grade of 0.35% Cu. Underground constrained Mineral Resources report all material within the potentially mineable shapes, regardless of whether the estimated grades exceed the optimized cut-off grade. The constraining pit optimization parameters included a mining cost of US$5.00/t for both mineralized and waste material, a processing cost of US$7.00/t processed, and a G&A cost of US$12.00/t processed, resulting in a total operating cost of US$24.00/t. The copper price was set at US$4.00/lb Cu, with process recoveries of 75% for Cu and pit slopes of 45. Underground Mineral Resources include blocks below the constraining pit shell within underground potentially mineable shapes. A mining cost of US$47/t, in addition to the economic assumptions above, results in an underground Cu cut-off of 1.0%. Potentially mineable shapes encapsulate material within domains with a minimum vertical mining height of 2.5 m. All "take all" material within the potentially mineable shapes is reported, regardless of whether the estimated grades are above the optimized cut-off grade.

The Project also includes the Seal Zinc Deposit, which is located 28 km northwest of the Storm Copper MRE deposits on the northern shore of Aston Bay. The Seal Zinc Deposit hosts current Inferred Mineral Resources of 1.006 million tonnes at an average grade of 10.24% zinc (Zn) and 46.5 g/t Ag, containing 103,000 tonnes of zinc and 1,505,000 ounces of silver. A cut-off of 4.0% zinc equivalent (ZnEq) was applied, using the formula ZnEq% = Zn% + (Ag g/t / 39). The Seal Zinc Deposit MRE was prepared by P&E, with an effective date of October 6, 2017. A supporting Technical Report titled, "Initial Mineral Resource Estimate and Technical Report for the Seal Zinc Deposit, Aston Bay Property, Somerset Island, Nunavut," was also prepared by P&E and is available under the Company's SEDAR+ profile (www.sedarplus.ca).

Storm Copper Mineral Resource Estimation and Classification Methodology

Ordinary Kriging with locally varying anisotropy was used to estimate copper and silver grades within a 5.0 m (X) by 5.0 m (Y) by 2.5 m (Z) block model. The grade estimation process considered capped drill hole composites to ensure appropriate representation of shorter high-grade assays.

Two distinct mineralization styles have been identified at the Storm Copper Project: horizontal, strata-bound mineralization and steeply dipping, structurally controlled mineralization. Certain zones within the project exhibit both styles.

Indicated Mineral Resource block grade interpolation requires data from at least three drill holes within a search ellipse of 75 m by 75 m by 10 m for stratigraphic and mixed mineralization zones, and 35 m by 25 m by 10 m for structural mineralization zones. Inferred Mineral Resource grade interpolation requires data from at least two drill holes within a search ellipse of 120 m by 120 m by 10 m for stratigraphic mineralization, 85 m by 60 m by 10 m for structural mineralization, and 90 m by 90 m by 10 m for mixed mineralization zones. Only composites within a given grade estimation domain were used within that domain.

Measured Mineral Resources have not yet been defined. Further drilling is recommended to improve geological understanding and refine mineralization controls at the Storm Copper Project. Additional metallurgical testing across multiple zones will also be essential to characterize the metallurgical properties of the different mineralized areas.

The Storm MRE tonnage constrained to conceptual open pits and undergrounds represents 56% of the mineralized block model. As potential prices of copper and/or the metallurgical, mining, processing or other costs change, the other 44% of the model not currently contained within the conceptual open pits or undergrounds represents a target for potential future resource definition.

Sampling and Quality Assurance/Quality Control

The analytical work reported herein was performed by ALS Global ("ALS"), Vancouver, Canada. ALS is an ISO-IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015 accredited geoanalytical laboratory and is independent of Aston Bay Holdings Ltd., American West Metals Limited, and the QP.

Samples were subject to 33-element geochemistry by four-acid digestion and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) to determine concentrations of copper, silver, lead, zinc, and many other elements (ALS Method ME-ICP61a). Overlimit analyses for copper were re-assayed using an ore-grade four-acid digestion with an ICP finish.

Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. and American West Metals Limited followed industry standard procedures for the work carried out on the Storm Project, incorporating a quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) program. Blank, duplicate, and certified reference materials (CRM) were inserted into the sample sequence and sent to the laboratory for analysis. QA/QC samples represented approximately 13% of all analytical samples. CRMs and blanks were inserted at a rate of one QAQC sample per 10 samples, and duplicates were collected at a rate of three per 100 samples. No significant QA/QC issues were detected during the review of the data.

Aston Bay Holdings Ltd. and American West Metals Limited are not aware of any drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data referred to herein.

Qualified Person

The Storm Copper Initial MRE was completed by Yungang Wu, M.Sc., P.Geo. of P&E Mining Consultants Inc. Mr. Wu is a Qualified Person as defined by the NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects and is independent of the Company. Mr. Wu has reviewed and verified the technical data disclosed in this news release related to the MRE.

Michael Dufresne, M.Sc., P.Geol., P.Geo., is a Qualified Person as defined by the NI 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this press release.

About Aston Bay Holdings

Aston Bay is a publicly traded mineral exploration company exploring for high-grade critical and precious metal deposits in Nunavut, Canada and Virginia, USA.

The Company is currently exploring the Storm Copper Property and Cu-Ag-Zn-Co Epworth Property in Nunavut, as well as the high-grade Buckingham Gold Vein in central Virginia. The Company is also in advanced stages of negotiation on other lands with high-grade critical metals potential in North America

The Company and its joint venture partners, American West Metals Limited and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Tornado Metals Ltd. (collectively, "American West"), have formed a 20/80 unincorporated joint venture in respect of the Storm Project property, which hosts the Storm Copper Project and the Seal Zinc Deposit. Under the unincorporated joint venture, Aston Bay shall have a free carried interest until American West has made a decision to mine upon completion of a bankable feasibility study, meaning American West will be solely responsible for funding the joint venture until such decision is made. After such decision is made, Aston Bay will be diluted in the event it does not elect to contribute its proportionate share and its interest in the Storm Project property will be converted into a 2% net smelter returns royalty if its interest is diluted to below 10%.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements made in this news release, including those regarding entering into the joint venture and each party's interest in the Project pursuant to the agreement in respect of the joint venture, management objectives, forecasts, estimates, expectations, or predictions of the future may constitute "forward-looking statement", which can be identified by the use of conditional or future tenses or by the use of such verbs as "believe", "expect", "may", "will", "should", "estimate", "anticipate", "project", "plan", and words of similar import, including variations thereof and negative forms. This press release contains forward-looking statements that reflect, as of the date of this press release, Aston Bay's expectations, estimates and projections about its operations, the mining industry and the economic environment in which it operates. Statements in this press release that are not supported by historical fact are forward-looking statements, meaning they involve risk, uncertainty and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although Aston Bay believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which apply only at the time of writing of this press release. Aston Bay disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by securities legislation.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

For more information contact:

Thomas Ullrich, Chief Executive Officer

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

(416) 456-3516

Sofia Harquail, IR and Corporate Development

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

(647) 821-1337
In October 2022, the now 37-year-old Eritrean national, Ghebremedin Temeschen Ghebru, was arrested by Interpol at Addis Ababa International Airport, as he was boarding a flight to Australia. He was extradited to Italy under charges of being a member of a criminal organisation smuggling migrants. He was accused of being a hawaladar. The hawala is an informal and untracked money transfer system through which, in this case, payments made by the relatives of those kidnapped are sent to traffickers and then to their various intermediaries along the journey to Europe.

This case and the one of another alleged trafficker from Eritrea, known as Welid, extradited to the Netherlands, just a week before Ghebru, were achieved through a joint international cooperation team, set up in 2018, involving judicial and police authorities in Italy and the Netherlands, together with the United Kingdom, Spain, Europol, and since 2022, the International Criminal Court (ICC). They focus on tackling trafficking and crimes against migrants in Libya.

The trial for Ghebru started in 2023 and is before the Court of Assize in Catania, where the first victims of his alleged organised network were disembarked. The defendant was released from prison after the first re-examination, which found no grounds for the crime of participating in a criminal association, organization or group, on which the precautionary measure was based. So Ghebru returned to Australia, where he lives and works, says his defence lawyer Michele Calantropo to Justice Info.

Over the last two years, the court has heard two prosecution witnesses. The defendant was scheduled to appear on March 3 but the hearing was postponed because Ghebru could not get a visa. The defence plans to bring around 10 witnesses. Calantropo believes the trial will end in 2025. The prosecutors office declined to comment.

He is not guilty of all crimes, stated Calantropo. In 2017, at the time of the phone tapping on which the case is based, the defendant stayed in Dubai for four months, where he worked as the consultant and accountant for an import-export company, talking to customers and suppliers about supply payments, there is not a single contact with the traffickers, the lawyer says. Calantropo adds that he filed all the documentation from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce on the company Ghebru worked for and many of his witnesses will also testify about it.

A strand of cases: the Glauco operations

This ongoing trial is just the latest one in a much longer operation, known as Glauco. It all started with the 2013 tragic shipwreck in which 300 migrants died off the coast of the Italian island Lampedusa. The resulting criminal investigation led to the conviction of six smugglers and the issuing of European and international arrest warrants for other members of the criminal network that operated in Eritrea, Ethiopia, Libya, and many European countries. Run by the District Anti-Mafia Directorate team of the public prosecutors office in Palermo, this operation led to three more sets of arrests in the following years. The latest one was the Glauco 4 operation in 2020, where another dozen people were apprehended across several cities in Italy.

The men arrested were accused of migrant trafficking and smuggling from African countries to Libyan detention facilities and then towards Italy and their final destination. Migrants rarely want to stay in Italy and hope to get to northern European countries, like Sweden, The Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The men were suspected of managing money transfers reaching accounts in Dubai as part of the hawala systems, through methods like Postepay, Moneygram and Western Union.

In the official documents, Ghebru is also mentioned as part of, and suspected to be leading, the same international network, but at the time of the arrests, he was still at large. The public prosecutor working on this investigation confirmed the events in a previous interview with Justice Info, but preferred not to comment at this stage, as he and other members of the Palermo Anti-Mafia team have been placed under police protection since last autumn: they received thousands of threats for charging the current deputy Prime Minister of Italy, Matteo Salvini, with kidnapping and dereliction of duty for his refusal to let a migrant rescue boat from the NGO Open Arms with 147 people on board dock in Italy in 2019. Salvini, who served as Italys Interior minister at the time of the incident, was acquitted in December 2024.

In its early stage, the trial of those arrested during the Glauco operation seemed to set a blueprint for Ghebrus one. The first re-examination found no grounds for the crime of association with a criminal organization, and most of the men could be released while the proceedings carried on at the Court of Assize in Catania. Of the group of 14 arrested, as announced by Italian media at the time, two were dealt with separately. They opted for an abbreviated trial, a procedure where there is no presentation of evidence, but the judge studies the case and delivers a quicker and reduced sentence.

The remaining 12 included ten Eritreans, one Ethiopian and one Sudanese national. On 5 December 2023, the judges found seven men guilty in the first instance judgment and acquitted the other three. The sentences were reduced heavily from the several years initially requested by the prosecution to a range from 10 to 18 months. According to the verdict, three of them were convicted only for the crimes connected to the hawala, two for financial crimes and smuggling, and another two for smuggling. The defence lawyers appealed and the appeal verdict is expected on 6 March 2025. There are no victims in the case.

Giuseppina Massaiu works in the defence of three of the men and says to Justice Info that her clients are not guilty and they have always rejected the count of migrant smuggling: They consider it to be defamatory, she adds. According to her, the prosecution did not consider the fact that any help, entering Italy or transferring money, can be given out of solidarity, solidarity towards a relative, an acquaintance, someone from your same region. This social duty is culturally very present in their community. For example, there are cases of migrants who arrive in Italy with no documents or money and need to receive transfers from their families. And in the case of migrants kidnapped and held by Libyan traffickers, family members pay because otherwise, their relatives would remain in Libyan detention centres indefinitely. The investigation that led to the Glauco 4 arrests and later to the extradition of Ghebru was based on phone tapping, which both defence lawyers have contested. This way the charges remain quite superficial, claims Massaiu.

Prosecuting small fish?

In the last decade, Italy has seen few trials for crimes such as human trafficking against migrants, kidnapping, violence and extortion in Libyan prisons. The most notorious one is the 2017 verdict for Osman Matammud, a Somali national found guilty of kidnapping for the purpose of extortion, killings, and sexual violence when managing transit camps in Libya. But the vast majority of the people put on trial are accused of migrant smuggling.

"As a tendency, the more important traffickers are not targeted, and this leads to the authorities going after the smaller ones because there is a practical issue in conducting investigations in other countries, says Stefano Zirulia, professor of criminal law at the University of Milan. In order to show the public that they are doing something, and as a consequence of mainly focusing on the Italian territory and waters, the authorities apply Italian laws, which are very strict and can be applied even to these individuals who have done little to nothing Zirulia explains that while there is a separate crime of human trafficking, which is more complex and requires the purpose of exploitation, in Italy smuggling is codified in article 12 of the Consolidated Immigration Act, which only requires committing acts aimed at facilitating the entry of a foreigner without documents.

Following the European Union 2002 Facilitators Package, done in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, explains Zirulia, all European countries had to criminalise any form of assistance in irregular entry. Since then, Italy has seen government after government raising sentences to give the impression of tackling the traffickers, and this has led the country to have some of the harshest sentences for smuggling, says Zirulia, which can go over 20 years. According to Zirulia, criminalising smuggling across the board, the way it is done, risks endangering the fundamental rights of migrants: the right to life when they are in danger and need to be rescued, and the right to request asylum.

A broad range of acts can fall under this law. Everything happening in Libya can also be part of this definition, and on the other hand, those who are themselves victims of smuggling, also fall under these acts. Sometimes they are the migrants who steer the boat in the final stretch because, simply, they were placed there and there is no one else who knows how to do it, or they use a GPS, says Maria Crippa, a postdoctoral researcher at the department of Law Cesare Beccaria at the University of Milan. The usual procedure, explains Crippa, is for the police to collect statements from migrants as they disembark and ask them who brought them there. It is not always easy to understand if the people they point to are affiliated with an organisation or if they are victims too.

According to a report compiled by the collective Arci Porco Rosso, in 2024, 106 migrants were arrested for smuggling, one for every 600 people arriving. The majority were arrested right after disembarking. Several NGOs rescuing migrants at sea have also been accused of smuggling over the years.

In Italy, we dont have discretion, if the prosecutor has the information, he must take legal action. But in practice, there is a choice of which charges to press, says Crippa, adding that the vast majority of cases are brought for migrant smuggling and for the crime of participating in a criminal association. These principles make it easier for the authorities to apply Italian laws to conducts committed abroad, and in case of a guilty verdict, they can also show the broader dimension of the crime.

However, this strategy of applying the article on smuggling has consequences for who is charged, so the small fish or the victims themselves, and for what they are charged with, says Crippa. Therefore, convictions are, in the majority of cases, for aiding and abetting, and the whole aspect related to trafficking and crimes against the person is lost. While human trafficking is a crime against the person, smuggling is legally considered a crime against the countrys border integrity, explains Crippa.

For Stella Arena, a lawyer for the Italian Association for Juridical Studies on Immigration, with this law, the criminal trial has become a way of controlling the flow of migration.

No cooperation with Libya

In Italy, there has been no conviction against Libyan nationals for crimes against migrants yet. There is a problem of accountability for those at the top of the system, who are typically Libyan, says Crippa. She adds that the problem is that Italian authorities cannot physically go to Tripoli to catch these people, their only way would be to issue an international arrest warrant and rely on the Libyans to do the rest. As long as there is this political situation in Libya, its clear that an agreement, even just to gather evidence, is not possible. So, imagine asking for extradition. One possibility could be to arrest a suspect in a third country that would extradite them, but there is no public information on whether Italy has international arrest warrants against Libyans.

The debate over crimes against migrants in the country heated up after Osama Najim, an alleged war criminal from Libya wanted by the ICC, was arrested by Italian police on 19 January 2025, only to be released and sent back to Tripoli two days later by the government, in contravention to its duty to cooperate with The Hague-based Court. His arrest and release has also sparked debate about the close ties between Rome and Tripoli. We saw it with the Najim case, there is no real will to act to stop the exploitation networks of migration, says Zirulia. According him, the migrant trafficking networks, unlike the mafia vertical organisation, are mostly organised horizontally and they can be closely connected to state apparatuses. So, it is very difficult to think about how to dismantle the leadership. Maybe thats the wrong question, but we certainly need to ask what we can do to target individuals who have decision-making powers.

Adding to the lack of political will and the difficult cooperation with Libya is yet another obstacle: the old gap in Italys jurisdiction on international crimes. Rome has still not incorporated the full range of war crimes and crimes against humanity into its criminal code and cannot exercise universal jurisdiction. As a result, it loses all that aspect of crimes against humanity, so the interrelation regarding the use of migrants as an economic resource by the militias, as commodities for exchange, as a resource to maintain military power, is no longer considered, Crippa says.

Omer Shatz, legal director of Front-Lex, a legal NGO, says that accountability for crimes against migrants should not include only Libyan traffickers and authorities. For decades, the governments in Rome have signed agreements with their counterparts in Tripoli, which include the Libyan control of the migration flows. Shatz argues that Italian and European authorities, including the EU border agency Frontex, are also responsible for the increasingly common interception of migrant boats by Libyan or Tunisian guards, and so, for feeding the business of rape, torture, extortion and the ransom that families are paying to free their loved ones from detention centres in Libya.

The international lawyer is critical of the fact that the ICC joined the joint team in 2022, seemingly leaving the prosecutions of these crimes to the same national authorities, including the Italian ones, who do not have the means to go higher up in the decision-making chain. While the ICC has included crimes against migrants in its Libya investigation, Shatz thinks that Italian and European authorities should be also investigated as coperpetrators. They are the most responsible actors, they are the ones for which the ICC was established to begin with.
The International Court of Justice on Monday appointed Yuji Iwasawa as its new president, replacing Nawaf Salam, the new prime minister of Lebanon.

The 70-year-old will head the court until Salam's term was due to expire on February 5, 2027, the ICJ said in a statement.

Iwasawa has been a member of the court since June 2018. Before joining the ICJ, he was professor of international law at the University of Tokyo and chair of the United Nations Human Rights Committee.

Often dubbed the "world court", the ICJ, which sits in the Peace Palace in The Hague, rules in disputes between nations. It is the UN's highest court.

It is sometimes confused with the International Criminal Court, also based in The Hague, which tries individuals for the world's worst crimes including suspected war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The ICJ is currently dealing with several especially high-profile cases.

It is weighing on a case brought by South Africa that Israel is allegedly committing genocide in its Gaza offensive.

The ICJ is also deliberating a case between Ukraine and Russia over Moscow's 2022 invasion.

And the court is preparing a so-called advisory opinion on the responsibility of nations with regard to climate change.

The president heads the 15-judge bench but plays a largely ceremonial role, giving speeches in the court's name and representing the institution worldwide, as well as reading out the ICJ rulings.

But the president's voice carries the same weight as the other judges in judicial deliberations, except in the event of a tie, in which case the president has the casting vote.






Monday, March 3, 2025 - A photo of a female Kenya Defence Forces officer in torn uniform has caused an uproar on social media.

The photo emerged barely a day after President William Ruto donated Ksh 20 million at Jesus Winner Ministry church in Roysambu.

See the trending photo and reactions.







The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, March 3, 2025 - Former Kiambu Governor, Ferdinand Waititu Babayao, will remain behind bars at Industrial Area Prison after the High Court denied his bail request pending appeal.

The court ruled that Waititu failed to present sufficient grounds to justify his release.

Waititu, who is serving a 12-year sentence for corruption-related offenses, had sought bail citing health concerns.

However, in its ruling on Monday, the court stated that prison facilities are adequately equipped with medical services, and in severe cases, convicts are referred to referral hospitals.

The court further emphasized that the right to bail is not automatic, and an applicant must demonstrate that their appeal is arguable with a high chance of success.

Waititus argument that the appeal process would be lengthy was also dismissed, as the court assured that its diary will ensure the appeal is determined within two months.

Instead of granting bail, the court directed that the main appeal be heard on a priority basis.

Waititu is appealing last weeks ruling by the Magistrates' Court, which sentenced him to 12 years in prison or a Ksh.52.5 million fine over a Ksh.588 million graft case.

Lady Justice Lucy Njuguna has set March 18th, 2025, as the next mention date for further directions.

Waititu has been in prison for three weeks since his conviction.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Monday, March 3, 2025 - A Nairobi court has ordered the detention of two suspects, Alex Mutua Kithuka and Albanus Mutinda Nzioki, for 21 days as investigations continue into the murder of British national, Campbell Scott.

The two will be held at Capital Hill and Kilimani police stations, respectively.

Scotts body was discovered in a forest in Makueni County under circumstances that remain under investigation.

Detectives sought additional time to complete their inquiries, including forensic analysis and witness statements.

The court granted the request, stating that the extended detention would allow investigators to gather crucial evidence before any formal charges are filed.

See photo of the suspects.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, March 2, 2025 - For 14 years, the dispute over former Starehe MP, Gerishon Kirimas multi-billion-shilling estate has played out in courtrooms, marked by legal battles, accusations of betrayal, and contested wills.

What began as a straightforward succession process following his death in 2010 quickly turned into a prolonged feud, with family members fighting over control of vast properties and business interests.

In the latest twist, the High Court has removed Teresia Wairimu Kirima, the widow, from her role as administrator and appointed her stepson, Stephen Kirima, to take charge of the estate.

The ruling by Justice Eric Nyaundi comes after allegations that Wairimu had interfered with the estates finances by collecting rental income from its properties but failing to remit a substantial portion to the Government.

The court also found that Wairimu and Maria Njeri Kirima had been occupying properties registered under the estate without legal justification.

Their continued stay in these properties had, according to the ruling, denied other beneficiaries their rightful access to the assets.

With this decision, the court effectively handed over control of the estate to Stephen Kirima, who will now oversee its management alongside Wairimus daughter, Wanjiru Kirima.

The ruling marks a significant shift in a dispute that has seen deep divisions within the Kirima family.

Shortly after Gerishon Kirimas death, multiple wills surfaced, each claiming to represent his final wishes.

Some family members questioned their authenticity, alleging that Kirima had been in no condition to draft a legitimate will due to his declining health in his final years.

Others accused certain relatives of hiding assets or seeking to manipulate the estates distribution in their favour.

Over the years, the case has been punctuated by dramatic accusations, with some beneficiaries claiming that Wairimu had unfairly benefited from the estate while sidelining others.

The courts decision now places the future of the estate in the hands of Stephen Kirima, who is expected to initiate a fresh review of the estates financial standing, settle any outstanding obligations, and ensure that the properties are properly distributed among the heirs.

The Kirima estate, which includes prime land in Nairobi, industrial properties, and shares in various companies, remains one of the most contested family fortunes in the country.

As Stephen Kirima assumes control, the legal and financial battles surrounding the inheritance are far from over.

Meanwhile, Wairimus removal signals a dramatic shift in the familys power dynamics.

Having managed the estate for over a decade, she now finds herself stripped of control, a move that is likely to spark further legal action as the Kirima family continues to battle over one of Kenyas most high-profile inheritances.






Sunday, March 2, 2025 - Former EACC chairperson Mumo Matemu is in court over a Ksh 100 million succession dispute concerning the estate of his elder brother, Kata Matemu Kithyo, who passed away on April 18, 2024.

His niece, Ms Melany Mwelu Kithyo, has accused him of attempting to interfere with the inheritance process and disinherit rightful beneficiaries.

In a petition set for hearing in May, Melany claims that some of those named as administrators and beneficiaries of the estate are unfamiliar to the family.

She has also alleged that her mother, Ms Prisca Mukethe Kithyo, was deliberately excluded from the process and later arrested in December 2024 in what she describes as a scheme to frustrate her attempts to claim her rightful share.

Ms Kithyo, 71, was reportedly detained on December 17, 2024, before being arraigned at the Msambweni Law Courts for allegedly interfering in the administration of the estate.

The estate, valued at approximately Ksh 100 million, comprises multiple assets, including two hotels at the coast, one of which is in Diani and generates a monthly income of about Ksh 150,000, parcels of land in Machakos and Kwale, a matrimonial home in Athi River, funds in three bank accounts, M-Pesa balances, shares in two companies, two motor vehicles and livestock.

A grant of letters of administration for the estate was issued on August 23, 2024, four months after Mr Kithyos death.

However, Melany has filed an application seeking to suspend or stay the grant, arguing that the process was flawed and designed to exclude her family from inheriting their rightful share.

She has raised concerns about the appointment of two individuals as administrators, stating that she was not consulted during their selection.

According to her, one of the administrators, Agnes Mororumkweru Kata, is a Rwandan citizen currently residing in Canada, while another, Billy Nzuma Kata, lives in Australia and was not in Kenya when key documents were allegedly signed.

Melany has contested the inclusion of Ms Arriane Rose Okongo as a beneficiary, asserting that she is not the biological daughter of the late Mr Kithyo but was instead born from an affair between her mother and the deceased.

She further argues that the entire process was conducted with undue haste, preventing her, her mother, and her siblings from participating in key decisions.

According to court documents, Melany and her siblings Mark Muinde and Ruth Kavinya were not consulted before the application for letters of administration was made.

She claims that the grant was based on a fraudulent letter dated April 29, 2024, allegedly issued by an assistant chief who relied on information from Mr Isaac Kimeu Kithyo, a person she insists is neither a beneficiary nor a personal representative of the estate.

An affidavit filed in support of the letters of administration lists eight beneficiaries, including Melany and her two siblings, but omits her mother, Ms Kithyo.

Melany has stated that her parents were legally married under Akamba customary law in December 1974, and their union was later formalised in a Christian ceremony on December 25 of the same year.

She claims that following her fathers death, Mr Matemu excluded them from the burial arrangements, and the burial proceeded despite a court challenge.

The grant of letters of administration was set to be confirmed on March 3, 2025, but the process has now been halted pending the hearing of Melanys application in May.

Cyprian Nyakundi
How to Import Japanese Cars for Sale in Kenya

In the ever-evolving automotive world, one giant that stands tall in terms of popularity is Japanese manufacturers. Following the Kaizen philosophy, Japanese manufacturers have constantly improved their engineering strategies and quality. Hence, Japanese automotive products have taken the world by storm. With a strong regulatory and export network, Japanese cars for sale have reached the local markets of Kenya. Whether you are looking for a family sedan or even an affordable luxury vehicle, Japanese Cars for Sale in Kenya are now attainable all the way in Kenya. Let us delve into how to import Japanese cars to Kenya.

Why Are So Many Japanese Cars For Sale in Kenya?

It may not come as a surprise that Japanese cars for sale have been dominating the Kenyan automotive market in recent decades. There are several reasons for the wide availability of Japanese used cars for sale in Kenya.

Japanese manufacturers have strict quality standards and Japan has a bi-annual vehicle inspection system which discourages the long-term ownership of Japanese cars. This way, all Japanese cars being exported have low mileage and are in excellent condition regardless of their age. These thoroughly inspected vehicles are then exported to regions like Kenya where there is minimal local production and the automotive market mainly relies on imports.

Since Japanese used cars for sale in Kenya are one of the very limited options available to Kenyan car buyers; they mostly rely on buying second-hand or importing a Japanese vehicle to Kenya.

Is It Cheaper To Buy A Car And Export It?

Yes, buying a car from a foreign market is known to be more economical than purchasing it locally. Buying and importing from a country like Japan, where competing manufacturing brands have certified and well-maintained cars for affordable prices. By excluding a dealership altogether and taking matters into your own hands, your expenses will still be lower than buying locally.

How Much Is Import Tax On A Japanese Car In Kenya?

The import tax on Japanese cars depends on a few metrics such as the models age, condition, and customs valuation. Total import duties include custom values(CIF), the base price of your Japanese car, and transportation charges.

Import Duty: 25% of the CIF value Excise Duty: 25-35% of the CIF value. VAT: 16% of (Import Duty + Excise Duty) Import Declaration Cost: 3.5% of the CIF value.

Why Import Japanese Cars For Sale?

Before we delve into the extensive details of importing your Japanese vehicle, let us discuss why purchasing a Japanese used car for sale is worth every penny.

Firstly, you save up significantly by purchasing a Japanese car, surprisingly even after factoring in import duties. Japanese vehicles are generally engineered at cheap costs to offer high quality.

As discussed above, Japanese used cars for sale are highly reliable because of their detail-oriented engineering, maintaining a standard of quality to uphold.

Since Japanese vehicles are leading the automotive industry, there are several competing brands that are popular for their diverse attributes. Most Japanese cars possess advanced technology and practical features, making inexpensive vehicles more modern.

How To Import A Japanese Car To Kenya?

Import Regulations in Kenya:

To understand the procedure of importing a Japanese vehicle to Kenya, you must know the following import regulations:

Your vehicle must not be older than 8 years after its year of manufacture, or else it is too old to be imported.

The vehicle has to necessarily be a right-hand drive vehicle to corroborate with the traffic trends in Kenya. You may import a left-hand drive vehicle - if you are ready to sponsor an expensive conversion.

Your Japanese vehicle must have passed the Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center to ensure your vehicle is not illegal or stolen. Your imported vehicle must also comply with the KEBS emission standards.

Calculate The Costs:

Now, no one said importing a Japanese vehicle will not come at a cost, a daily healthy one at that. You will need to factor in several expenditures during the process. Firstly, the cost of the car model will be taken as the base price. Shipping costs will typically range from $900-1200 depending on the shipping company. Additionally, import taxes such as the import duty, excise duty, and VAT will be added to the bill.

Moving on, you can expect to pay another 65,000 KSh for inspection, port clearance, and registration fees for your vehicle. If you want to get a more accurate cost quotation for the total shipment charges for your specific vehicle, you can use a KRA calculator online to get a rough estimate.

Pick A Reliable Dealer:

When shipping an automobile overseas, you must be sure to hire a trustworthy agent, who will offer you the best deal and services possible. You are to either find an auction agent or hire a reputable car-exporting platform.

One such incredible auto trading platform is SAT Japan, known for its impeccable worldwide shipment services. One must choose whether they want to auction their Japanese vehicle or purchase a used or new one.

If choosing the auction, you must bid cautiously, asking for guidance from your agent to reach the best possible win. If you want to buy from their inventory, scroll through the endless options and get in touch with their sales team immediately.

Pro tip: always do the due diligence of researching and reaching a final decision on model and price range. This gives you clarity and more negotiating power during the purchasing process.

Custom Clearance:

Once you have reserved the vehicle, your agent will handle the shipment, choosing either the Roll-On-Roll-Off or Container Shipping. Once your car is safely shipped to the Kenyan Mombasa Port within 8-12 weeks, you will need to keep some documentation handy. While car buyers usually opt for a clearing agent, SAT Japan lends its expertise to car buyers throughout the procedure.

Although importing a Japanese car to Kenya may seem like a challenge, a strategic and well-informed approach will have you flexing your new car in no time, researching your regions import regulations, finding a reputable agent, finalizing your dream ride, having a conclusive price range in mind, and staying compliant with shipment schedules can all be a bit too much, SAT Japan is a leading Japanese car exporter, known for its transparent and hassle-free purchasing process. Surf through SAT Japans extensive inventory of Japanese vehicles and get in touch with the sales team to import your Japanese car to Kenya without breaking the bank. Happy importing!






Monday, March 3, 2025 - Mombasa County speaker Aharub Khatri has set tongues wagging after he was filmed flaunting a Lamborghini Urus, a high-end vehicle owned by the elite.

Khatri, a popular businessman at the coast, ascended to the highest seat in the assembly after he was elected unopposed during the 2017 elections.

He is serving for the second term as the speaker.

A quick glance at his Instagram page depicts a speaker keen on his public appearance and a polished street look like that of his close ally, Ali Hassan Joho, the first Mombasa Governor and the current Mining Cabinet Secretary.

Khatri, a well-known car enthusiast, owns a fleet of guzzlers, among the multi-million Lamborghini Urus he was pictured driving.

His source of immense wealth has always been a subject of discussion at the Coast.

The once powerful Coast regional coordinator, Nelson Marwa, accused him of being a drug dealer in 2019, leading to a court battle.

Khatri took Marwa to court and sued him for defamation, claiming there was no evidence linking him to drug trafficking.

He won the case and was awarded Ksh 6 million in damages.

Watch video of his Lamborghini.

Mombasa county speaker has a Lamborghini.

Kenya! pic.twitter.com/essxlFZOBS  The Kenyan Vigilante (@KenyanSays) March 3, 2025

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, March 2, 2025 - The late Kenya Primary Schools Headteachers Association (KEPSHA) Chairperson, Johnson Nzioka, commonly known as Nzioka, was laid to rest in an emotional ceremony attended by hundreds of mourners, among them education stakeholders, Government officials, and fellow headteachers from across the country.

Nziokas body was ferried in a luxurious hearse from the mortuary to his home in Masii, Machakos County, where he was laid to rest.

The deceased perished in a fatal accident along Mombasa Road after his Prado rammed into a truck.

He was widely respected for his dedication to improve primary education in Kenya.

See photos.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, March 2, 2025 - Chaos erupted on the morning of Sunday, March 2nd, after irate youths stormed Christ Impact Church in Ruiru and vandalized it, following claims that the resident pastor, Prophet Peter K, was drugging men and doing the unthinkable to them.

The youth threatened to demolish the church, with a section of the residents declaring that they did not want the rogue prophet to remain in their community.

The residents accused the police of protecting the suspect amid running battles.

For a better part of Sunday morning, shops and businesses around Christ Impact Church remained closed as owners feared losses in case the situation escalated further.

The pastor was reportedly hiding in Kasarani as chaos ensued.

Prophet Peter K's rogue behaviours were exposed to the public a few days ago after a fellow pastor painfully narrated how he did the unthinkable to him after drugging him.

Other male victims also revealed that the prophet had 'preyed on them' and despite reporting the matter to the police, no action was taken against him.

Watch the video of the dramatic incident.








Monday, March 3, 2025 - Pastor Edward Mwai of Jesus Winner Ministry Church has faced a backlash on social media after President William Ruto attended his church in Roysambu on Sunday and donated Ksh 20 million.

Ruto further promised to mobilize his friends and donate another Ksh 100 million towards the construction of Mwais new church, which is estimated to cost Ksh 1.2 billion.

The church will be built on a contentious piece of land along Thika Road, which was previously owned by the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF).

Young Kenyans, popularly known as Gen Zs, are planning to hold protests at Mwais church next Sunday, accusing him of receiving money looted from public coffers.

The protests are being organized on Tiktok, and hundreds of young TikTokers have volunteered to join the protests.

The Kenyan DAILY POST
By Rebecca Black, PA

Northern Irelands First Minister Michelle ONeill has said she is comfortable with the deputy First Minister attending the White House later this month.

Ms ONeill previously announced she was not planning to travel to Washington DC for St Patricks Day.

She said that she, along with her Sinn Fein party colleagues, will take a principled stance against the threat of mass expulsion of the Palestinian people from Gaza.

Last week, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly confirmed she will travel to Washington DC.

First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly meeting with US President Joe Biden in 2023 (Kelvin Boyes/Press Eye/PA)

Last year Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly were lauded in the US capital as they travelled together to attend St Patricks Day events only weeks after the powersharing institutions at Stormont were restored.

Speaking during questions for the Executive Office at the Stormont Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said that she and Ms Little-Pengelly will both travel to North Carolina with a Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce trade delegation next week, before the deputy First Minister goes on to Washington.

Ms ONeill also confirmed an invitation had been received for the White House.

She said she was comfortable with Ms Little-Pengelly attending when she is not.

People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll questions First Minister Michelle ONeill during questions for the Executive Office at the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday (NI Assembly/PA)

Responding to a question from People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, Ms ONeill said she had taken the decision as First Minister not to attend events at the White House this year.

Thats my decision, a decision I dont take lightly, but a decision Ive taken as a principled stance because I believe its the right thing to do at this moment in time.

I think there are times whenever theres a responsibility on all of us to call out injustice, and this was that moment.

So, Im very comfortable with my decision, equally comfortable with the fact that the deputy First Minister has a different view and will travel to be part of the White House reception and other events this year.

Thats entirely her call and Im comfortable enough with that decision.

Micheal Martin is also travelling to the US (Brian Lawless/PA)

Mr Carroll also pressed Ms ONeill on Taoiseach Micheal Martins attendance at the White House.

Ms ONeill responded by saying it is a different situation for the Taoiseach, who will have the opportunity to engage directly with US president Donald Trump.

Thats an opportunity that he has to take because only he will have that opportunity to have that one-on-one time, and I hope that he does take the opportunity to drive home the message, the depth of feeling thats felt right across Ireland in terms of how people feel about whats happening in Palestine, she said.

The recent commentary by the US administration, in particular in terms of the taking of Palestinian lands, the removal of the Palestinian people off their lands, the fact that they have moved away from a two-state solution, which is a solution that we all want to see achieved, is something that he needs to be very firm on in terms of any engagement with the US president.
The Attorney General has received a request to hold an inquest into the murder of Irish backpacker Danielle McLaughlin.

Local man Vikat Bhagat, 31, was found guilty at the District and Sessions Court in India last month.

Ms McLaughlin, from Buncrana in Co Donegal, was found dead in a secluded spot in Canacona, an area of Goa popular with holidaymakers, in March 2017.

The 28-year-old had been celebrating Holi, a Hindu spring festival, at a nearby village.

Ms McLaughlins body was found the next day by a farmer in a field in a remote location.

A post-mortem examination showed the former Liverpool John Moores University student suffered cerebral damage and constriction of the neck, causing her death.

Weeks after the verdict in India, Ms McLaughlins family solicitor Des Doherty applied to Attorney General Rossa Fanning to direct an inquest into her murder and rape, under Section 24(1) of the Coroners Act 1962.

The family told the Irish Times podcast that they have a lot of unanswered questions about Ms McLaughlins death.

The family do not have a death certificate for Ms McLaughlin and do not know which of the horrific injuries she suffered killed her.

Ms McLaughlins family believe that the Attorney General can direct an inquest to be carried out based in the interest of justice and in the public interest.

The office of the Attorney General has been contacted for comment.
Rare waterfowls flock to Keluke Lake, NW China's Qinghai, as spring arrives

People's Daily Online) 13:24, March 03, 2025

(Video/Media Convergence Center of Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture)

As spring arrives, migratory birds return to the northern parts of China, bringing new life to the awakening landscape. Keluke Lake in Delingha city, northwest China's Qinghai Province, has become a bustling haven for migratory birds.

On Feb. 21, 2025, flocks of egrets and whooper swans gracefully stretched their wings over the shimmering waters of Keluke Lake. Meanwhile, red-crested pochards, Eurasian coots, white-tailed eagles, and mallards playfully glided across the lake, weaving between swaying reeds as they rested and foraged.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

Thunderstorms. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. High 86F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 67F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
Pope Francis delivers his Sunday Angelus blessing from the window of his studio overlooking St. Peter's Square on January 12. Pope Francis experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, the Vatican said on March 3.
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A plan to take 9,000 trucks a day off suburban streets has been welcomed. But there's one key detail that's got residents worried.

Families in Melbourne suburbs Yarraville, Seddon and Kingsville want air filtration systems fitted to concrete stacks designed to send pollution from the Westgate Tunnel below. Source: Michael Dahlstrom

Aussie parents are fearful about the design of twin concrete towers being constructed near their homes. The 50-metre-high ventilation stacks are part of the new $10 billion West Gate Tunnel which is designed to take thousands of vehicles off suburban streets in Melbournes inner west and improve air quality.

But what's concerning many of the residents is that these ventilation stacks aren't fitted with air filtration devices, and they believe toxic pollution from cars and trucks driving below them will be spewed over their backyards, schools, pubs, shops, and childcare centres.

Hundreds of locals gathered in a park in Yarraville, 8km west of Melbourne, to share their frustration on Sunday. Local dad Alistair told Yahoo News he was disappointed by the lack of filtration and feared his kids health could be affected by diesel emissions from trucks.

Also in attendance was Lizbeth and her 5-year-old daughter Maya, who moved to the area from Bogota, Colombia, where pollution regularly exceeds World Health Organization recommendations. I came to Australia thinking it would be a more environmentally friendly country, but slowly Ive been finding thats not the reality, she said.

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Related: Call for answers after deadly poison found buried in forest

Alistair from Melbournes west attended a community event at Yarraville on Sunday with his daughter because he is concerned about pollution from the ventilation stacks. Source: Michael Dahlstrom

Whether the ventilation stacks will severely impact the community is hotly contested. But as a precautionary measure, the states environmental watchdog added a condition that they must be designed with the ability to be retrofitted with air filtration systems if the pollution does turn out to be impactful after they become operational this year.

Similar devices have been used in Europe, Japan and South Korea. But for now, Victorias state government argues theyre not needed in the suburbs of Yarraville, Seddon and Kingsville, citing advice from the state's Environmental Protection Authority.

The two vents are being constructed close ot the tunnel's exits.

Lizbeth said she wanted better air quality for her 5-year-old daughter Maya. Source: Michael Dahlstrom

Tunnel will take 9,000 vehicles off community streets

There are no doubts Melbourne's inner west has problems with pollution from trucks, many of which are over 16 years of age and would not be permitted to enter European ports. Modelling suggests after the tunnel is operational, air quality in some pockets of the region will improve, while others could suffer occasional heightened levels of particulate pollution.

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The electorates at the centre of the dispute are Footscray and Williamstown, both of which have been almost exclusively held by Labor since their creation. Some residents have called on their local members to break with the Party and insist on the filtration being added to the stacks now.

Tom from Yarraville said he wanted cleaner air for his kids. I feel like our local member is just towing the Party line, rather than actually listening to what the community wants, and this is one way to do it, he said. Long-term resident Michelle said she's sick of successive governments just paying "lip-service" to the community.

Member for Footscray Katie Hall was keen to highlight the most positive aspect of the plan. The West Gate Tunnel will take 9,000 trucks off local roads every day and experts have advised that this will deliver a significant improvement in air quality, she told Yahoo.

Dozens of residents gathered at Yarraville on Sunday. Source: Michael Dahlstrom

The Victorian government maintains the West Gate Tunnel Projects ventilation system has been designed "according to stringent air quality standards". Source: WGTP

She noted the EPAs assessment of the ventilation stacks found a trial of similar filtration technology in NSW did not show change in air quality in the local area. The report acknowledged community concerns about emissions about the West Gate Tunnel and said the ability for the filters to be retrofitted was a precautionary measure

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Hall added, I am not an environmental scientist  but I have confidence in the expertise of the technical experts who have assessed this with the health of our community and the environment as their main priority.

Member for Williamstown Melissa Horne declined to comment.

Local kids hospitalised for respiratory issues at staggering rate

The City of Maribyrnong already has the highest hospital admissions for respiratory ailments in Victoria for young people aged 3 to 19, according to council data. The rate is 70 per cent above the Victorian average and up to 171 per cent above the Australian average, its 2022 Air Quality Improvement Plan found.

In 2017, the projects government-appointed advisory committee recommended filtration should be fitted during construction, but then-planning-minister Richard Wynne subsequently rejected the finding, saying the devices were not cost-effective or justified.

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The Maribyrnong Truck Action Group, which organised Sundays event, wants the EPA to hold a conference of interested persons to reconsider its 2017 decision that filtration wasnt needed against new evidence on the impact of diesel emissions.

There's much better access to data in terms of exposure to diesel emissions and how harmful they are to human health, its president Martin Wurt told Yahoo.

Maribyrnong Truck Action Group president Martin Wurt told the crowd, Melbourne's west has been a "dumping ground for toxic industries". Source: Michael Dahlstrom

Before the tunnel opens, Wurt wants the project considered against new environmental laws that focus on preventing harm to communities, rather than responding to it.

The tunnel will get the trucks off our streets and underground, but there's a big vent stack either end of the tunnel system, and that's simply pumping out unfiltered pollution from the tunnel back over our community, he said

If anything, as the Port of Melbourne grows and the more trucks go into the tunnel, we think our health outcomes will get worse.

Will unfiltered vents harm local kids?

Before the project was greenlit, the EPA found the contribution from the stacks to emissions at ground level will be "low". It told Yahoo that ongoing air quality monitoring will guide the need for the retrofitting of small particle matter emission controls.

But environmental scientist Keith Loveridge isnt convinced the EPAs planned monitoring of emissions will be adequate, because it will only monitor certain types of chemicals, dust, dirt and smoke. Sensors will only detect PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter, not the finer PM0.1, despite all of them having been associated with lung and heart disease.

They ultrafine particles go straight into the bloodstream and major organs, particularly with children who breathe a lot faster than adults, he told Yahoo.

Tunnel operator claims ventilation will 'meet stringent' standards

The Department of Transport referred all questions to the West Gate Tunnel Project, which is a partnership between the state government and private toll operator Transurban.

In a statement, Transurban told Yahoo its project would "transform travel in and out of Melbourne's west".

"The West Gate Tunnel ventilation system has been designed to meet stringent international standards. Extensive modelling was undertaken to inform the design and to ensure safe air quality inside and outside the tunnel," it claimed.

"Once operational, a robust program of ongoing air quality monitoring will ensure the tunnel performs as expected and meets all requirements. Transurban regularly publishes air-quality data on our website and in our sustainability reporting."

The author, Michael Dahlstrom, is a resident of Melbourne's west.

Anna brought her daughter to Yarraville on Sunday to voice her concern about air quality. Source: Michael Dahlstrom

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A CRITICAL care nurse escaped a conviction and a driving disqualification at Portlaoise District Court when she agreed to donate 1,000 to North Tipperary Hospice.

Megan Maher, 4 Glebe View, Roscrea, Co Tipperary pleaded guilty to driving at 95kph in an 80kph zone at The Great Heath, Portlaoise on 5 July last.

Defending solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said that her client works as a critical care nurse at University Hospital Limerick and had accumulated a number of penalty points while travelling to work.

She said that if Ms Maher is convicted on the latest summons, it would put her over the penalty points limit and she would automatically be disqualified from driving.

Ms Fitzpatrick said the offence took place out where Traceys Restaurant is, which is quite a wide stretch of road.

She said her 37-year-old client was asking the court to leave her without a conviction on this offence.

Judge Andrew Cody struck out the summons after Ms Maher agreed to make the donation.
MEMBERS of Mountrath Library recently welcomed award-winning international best-selling writer Niamh Boyce as their author guest for Ireland Reads Day.

The event is a nationwide reading day, where authors visit libraries all over the country for informal chats with library members. They talk about their books, writing styles and offer advice and tips on writing through question and answer sessions.

Originally from Athy, Niamh lives in Ballylinan and she writes poetry, short stories and novels. Among her many achievements, she was awarded The Hennessy Award for New Irish Writer of The Year in 2012.

At the event in Mountrath, Niamh told the gathering that she began her writing career by taking a writing course with well-known author and playwright John MacKenna.

She said: I began writing short stories in 2008, which featured a man that I had heard about who was glamorous, exotic, had a gold tooth, wore bright-coloured clothes and a Panama hat. He would pass through my hometown of Athy in the 1930s, having apparently appeared out of nowhere. He would set up his stall selling his herbs. He was somewhat of a hit with the ladies and Niamh said that she had heard whispers about him over the years from female peers and from several people who knew him.

She said: I wanted to find out about this character and began asking people about him. I found myself writing one story after another featuring this man until I realised that I was actually writing a novel. This became Niamhs bestselling debut, The Herbalist.

Niamh then published a book of her poetry titled Inside the Wolf, before going on to release her second bestselling novel Her Kind, which is based on the Kilkenny witchcraft trial of 1324.

The talented author captivated the audience in Mountrath Library with details of her vast research into realising the story.

Niamh said she joint-edited a project with author Shauna Gilligan last year, which resulted in the publication of an anthology titled Fire: Brigid and the Sacred Feminine. This saw submissions from all over the world and features poems, stories and artworks based on St Brigid.

Niamh is currently working on a new book titled The Writers House, which will be released later this year. It is set in a spiritualists house in Edinburgh in 1847 and features a bog body.

Niamh, who previously worked as a librarian in Ballylinan and Stradbally libraries, said that she was always a reader before becoming a writer and that she loves to explore other worlds and stories.

She said: Writing for a half-hour every morning before opening mobile phones is great, because your attention isnt drawn to the news of the day. When I was young, we would get our news once a day in the evening. Then we started getting news on the hour on television and now its constantly in our hands through our phones. Its best to write for a while before looking at the phone. Writing small amounts daily is better than writing for several hours once a week. More about Niamh Boyce can be found on her social media pages.
A LEARNER who failed the driving test three times in the past three years was fined for driving unaccompanied on a learner permit.

Keith Mitchell, 18 Droughill Lawn, Portarlington pleaded guilty to the offence when he appeared at Portlaoise District Court.

The 34-year-old was driving a Nissan Qashqai when he was stopped by gardai at Pine Villas in Portarlington on 22 June 2024. He proved to be a learner permit holder who was not accompanied by a qualified driver.

Working as a plasterer, he had 22 previous convictions that included 12 for road traffic offences. He had one previous conviction for driving unaccompanied on a learner permit in 2015.

Judge Andrew Cody said: It seems to me that you have been driving unaccompanied for a long time.

Mr Mitchell replied: I was struggling to pass the driving test. I failed it three times in the past three years but I hope to pass it very soon.

Warning him to be very careful in future, Judge Cody fined him 350.
Lance and Christina were tucked up in bed when a commotion broke out in their living room.

A couple had a late night encounter that left them chasing an intruder around their house Source: Facebook/Christina Webb

It's not unusual for Australia's diverse wildlife to inadvertently end up in someone's home as humans continue to encroach on their habitat. And this exact scene unfolded on Sunday night when a couple were tucked up in bed when they heard a noise in the living area that made them rip off the covers to go and investigate.

Christine Webb and partner Lance raced into the living room to the sound of their dogs barking, something that only happens when "something is not right". It quickly became clear they had spotted an unexpected intruder flying around their Gold Coast home.

"We have no idea how it got in," Christina told Yahoo News, of the tiny bat that had found its way into their home and was hiding behind a decorative ladder hanging on the wall.

After putting the dogs in their crates, Christina, a vet, and Lance set about trying to help the tiny bat out of the house and back into the wild. Because Lance is 6ft tall, Christina, who stands at 4'11, said he was "the better man for the job".

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The pair are no stranger to animals entering their house, saying it happens "all the time".

"This is the first bat though," she said. Christina speculated that it may have come in on an object, an open door or through the roof.

The couple chased the tiny bat around their house to make sure it found freedom. Source: Facebook/Christina Webb

Footage captures Lance wearing gloves as a safety precaution while he uses a duster and a towel to try and move the bat along.

"He was in the kitchen behind the decorative ladder, then flew to the air con," she said of the bat's erratic movements. The couple turned all of the lights off in the direction to freedom, since bats are nocturnal.

After chasing the bat around the living room for over 20 minutes, the bat finally rested on a hat hanging on the wall and Lance was able to carefully grab it and release it outside.

The tiny bat was rescued after 20 minutes and set free. Source: Facebook/Christina Webb

Vet's warning to Aussies about bats

Christina said the pair "used precautions" because while rabies is not present in Australia, a small percentage of bats can carry the lyssavirus. Anyone bitten by a fruit bat is urged to seek medical attention immediately. Once symptoms develop, there is no treatment available

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"There is a small but real chance that they can have lyssavirus," Rhiannon Traish-Walker, President of Bats QLD, previously told Yahoo, adding it is a "silent disease until you develop symptoms" and after that, it's "too late".

"It's a simple case of if you're bitten, go to hospital to get those vaccinations. We have a simple rule of no touch, no risk,"

Despite taking matters into their own hands, Christina advises fellow Aussies not to "try this at home".

Watch the footage:

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Judith Martin, known as Miss Manners, answers a question about bride and grooms requests for money to be spent on their honeymoon. Canva

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have a relative who has been living with her boyfriend for a few years now. Last year, they took a vacation to Asia and got married while on their trip. It was basically an elopement, as no one knew until after the fact.

My relative has just sent out a social media post informing friends and family that the last year has been hectic and theyve made the decision to forgo a reception. They plan on continuing to celebrate their marriage in a more intimate way, as they see people individually ... whatever that means.

In lieu of gifts, theyve booked a honeymoon in Hawaii. She then gave a link so people could contribute money for snorkeling and surfing lessons.

Maybe Im too old-school, but is this normal? Will I be in bad taste if I dont contribute to their snorkeling and surfing lessons?

GENTLE READER: You can certainly be forgiven for noticing that your relative only had time between her vacations to stick out her hand for more. Or for not wishing to participate in their marriage in a more intimate way.

(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
All it takes to get this limited-edition Disney Store x Starbucks tumbler is some faith, trust, and a little bit of pixie dust. Shop it now for $30 at Disney Store. Disney Store/Starbucks/Canva

Who needs a princess, when you can have a queen?!

Okay, okay, were just kidding, Cinderella is an icon and she deserves all of the fanfare. But Disney Store is also holding space for another beloved heroine, with a new collection of Tinker Bell green drip honoring the legendary fairy and her signature sparkle.

Walt Disney World Logo Starbucks Travel Tumbler in Tinker Bell Green Shop for $30 at DisneyStore.com Buy Now

You can shop several new Tink-coded items at Disney Store, including the wearable Tinker Bell Spirit Jersey for $80, a Minnie Mouse Sequined Ear Headband in Tinker Bell Green for $35, and a Minnie Mouse Sequined Loungefly Mini Backpack in Tinker Bell Green for $100.

If youd rather carry a piece of Tinker Bells magic around with you, you can do that with the $30 pixie dust-swirled Starbucks Travel Tumblers tailor made for the Happiest (Disneyland) and Most Magical Places on Earth (Walt Disney World).

Like all Starbucks 24-ounce cold cups, these lime green Tinker Bell looks  taking style cues from Tinks bright green petal-perfect flutter dress  have a double-walled exterior to keep drinks cold. They also have twist-close tops and matching straws with silicone ring seals at the bottom to keep them from popping out.

These streamlined acrylic silhouettes are $20 cheaper than the Cinderella 75th Anniversary gem-faceted designs that sold out within seconds last week.

Plus, with their minty green hue and built-in glitter and iridescence, these Tinker Bell sippers are great for spring  especially if you live your life by the she leaves a little sparkle wherever she goes mantra.

Check out everything else in the Tinker Bell Green Collection now.

3 more Tinker Bell sass-ified merch to shop at Disney Store

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Danielle Halibey can be reached at dhalibey@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
A 41-year-old Washington, Pennsylvania man faces charges after firing a single gunshot early Saturday in Downtown Easton, city police said.

Randy Shaun Yuhas is being charged with two counts misdemeanor reckless endangerment. Yuhas was arrested and released, pending a summons, said Easton Police Captain of Field Services Salvatore Crisafulli.

Crisafulli told lehighvalleylive.com officers responded around 1:30 a.m. to Centre Square for a reported shots fired.

There were no reported injuries.

Investigators believe Yuhas was arguing with a group of men when he went to his car and retrieved a handgun, Crisafulli said. Thats when he allegedly fired the shot.

We are still investigating whether or not the gun was pointed at another person, Crisafulli said.

Investigators seized the handgun used in the shooting, he said.

The incident remains under investigation by the Easton Police Department.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism you rely on and trust.

Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com.
Daredevil: Born Again premieres on Disney+ on Tuesday, March 4, and a second season of the superhero series is already in the works.

Filming for season 2 of Daredevil: Born Again began in New York City in early March. Showrunner Dario Scardapane told Collider in an interview published in February that season 2 will have eight episodes, while season 1 has nine.

When I came in and put together the overview of what the first season was going to be, the second season was implied. They are the absolute flip side to each other, which youll see, Scardapane said. Without giving too much away, at the very end of the last episode of this season, you essentially see a lot of cards being put out on a table, and season 2 is those cards going into play vigorously and perhaps viciously.

Daredevil: Born Again stars Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock/Daredevil. Cox previously played the Marvel superhero in the Netflix television series Daredevil, which aired from 2015 to 2018. A 2003 film of the same name starred Ben Affleck in the titular role.

In addition to Cox, Daredevil: Born Again stars Vincent DOnofrio (Wilson Fisk/Kingpin), Margarita Levieva (Heather Glenn), Deborah Ann Woll (Karen Page), Wilson Bethel (Benjamin Dex Poindexter/Bullseye), Genneya Walton (BB Urich), and Jon Bernthal (Frank Castle/Punisher). Matthew Lillard will join the cast for season 2, although his role has not yet been revealed.

Charlie Cox in "Daredevil: Born Again." Disney+/YouTube

The new Disney+ series picks up several years after the events of Netflixs Daredevil and a year after Murdock, a blind New York City lawyer, gave up his double life as a crime-fighting vigilante.

READ MORE: When will Captain America: Brave New World be streaming on Disney+?

While some fans have wondered whether Daredevil: Born Again will be sanitized due to its home on Disney+, Scardapane told Collider he was shocked with the amount of creative freedom they had.

Getting a chance to work with [second unit director] Phil Silvera  who Im a huge fanboy for  building these action sequences, making them eye-popping, making them real, making them gritty, making them hurt, Disney+ and Marvel never said, Pull back, he said.

Producer Sana Amanat chimed in to say that they were told, Go for it. The bloodier, the better, 100 percent.

Season 1 of Daredevil: Born Again premieres on Disney+ on Tuesday, Mach 4. All seasons of Daredevil are now available to stream on Disney+.

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Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips/.
Graiguecullen has not had any additional social housing units in 2024 and will not have any in 2025 according to the Laois Housing Targets figures under the Government's Housing for All scheme, according to Sinn Fein's representative for the town.

Aaron Kelly, a 2024 local election candidate, issued a statement on the housing allocation for people on Laois County Council's waiting list in Graigue, which has the same status as Portlaoise in a strategic plan for regional development.

"It may be 'Housing for All' by name but it's certainly not by nature when Graiguecullen is yet again excluded from social housing delivery this year," said Mr Kelly in a statement to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

He said Graiguecullen has experienced a significant rise in population which is exerting pressure on existing social housing resources.

"This growth has not been met with a proportional increase in housing developments, leading to a scarcity that affects vulnerable families, including low-income residents, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly. It's so frustrating to see young people being left without any hope of securing their own home and being left with no choice but to emigrate.

"People are contacting me on a daily basis in relation to their position on the housing list in Laois and a common theme that I am coming across is how it has now become a normal occurrence for three generations of family to live under the same roof," he said.

READ ALSO: GOAHEAD GIVEN TO REBUILD BURNT COUNCIL HOUSES

Mr Kelly who ran in the Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District, outlined his party's view. MORE BELOW PICTURE.

Pictured: Redevelopment of the Presentation Convent site in Portlaoise is a 27 million social housing project.

"We need a complete overhaul of current housing policies to address systemic delays and improve delivery efficiencies. Sinn Fein has a plan to make housing affordable and to bring homeownership within reach of working people. Sinn Fein will transform housing in Ireland, from how we think and plan homes, the communities they are part of, to how we build homes. We will ensure that everyone has a home," he said.

Carlow-Graiguecullen is a designated Key Town Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region. Laois County Council fed into a joint plan for Carlow and Graigue in 2024. The adopted plan will apply to 2030.
A driver who copped a $410 fine for improperly wearing her seatbelt swears she is innocent of any wrongdoing, and she's not the first to claim inaccuracies in roadside cameras as authorities battle to curb the growing fatality rate on Aussie roads.

Anne Guirguis told Yahoo News the mobile phone and seatbelt detection camera in Tempe, Sydney captured her behind the wheel on February 9. She admitted she could not see the seatbelt in the first picture, but it appears to be seen in the second image  with the two photographs taken seconds apart. She argued the grainy, unclear photos did not provide proof she wasn't following the rules, but after disputing the images, she claims authorities have told her, "No, you have to pay the fine."

"I got the fine in the mail and I was shocked. Ive emailed them [saying] I had my seatbelt on... I always wear my seatbelt," she said. She explained her 2012 Jeep Patriot "beeps if the seatbelt is not on" and she remembers wearing it when she was heading to Good Guys with her friend.

Anne has asked authorities for "better quality photos", claiming the low-quality shot is not picking up her seatbelt in the first picture. "I will wait for their reply with the photos then I'll be going to the ombudsman," she said.

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Yahoo News has reached out to Revenue NSW for comment.

The second image appears to show the driver wearing her seatbelt. Source: Facebook/AnneHannaGuirguis

Do you have a story about being wrongfully accused of a driving offence? Contact sophie.coghill@yahooinc.com

More motorists claim their driving offences are wrongfully issued

Road authorities are under mounting pressure to take action to reduce the road fatalities in Australia which have been rising at a pace not seen since 1966. Roadside cameras have been sprouting up across the country but drivers have been putting their hand up claiming they are being called out for driving offences they haven't committed.

One NSW driver claims his mate was supposedly "wearing his seatbelt incorrectly" while sitting in the passenger seat last November, but said pinning the offence, which he said wasn't committed, on pictures of "terrible quality" is unfair. The dual-tech road cameras were introduced in NSW last year, and within the first three weeks, 11,400 fines were issued across the state.

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Drivers are 'fed up' of constant threat of fines, lawyer said

Hayder Shkara, principal lawyer at Walker Pender, told Yahoo News his firm has seen an "uptick" in claims of "motorists being wrongly accused of offences".

"The photos taken can be really hard to decipher if a seat belt is being worn correctly, especially at night. Drivers can appeal the fines if they believe a mistake has been made, and this fails, you can take the matter to court," he said. "Losing points for some people can mean that they are losing livelihoods, and people simply can't afford the loss of points."

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He previously told Yahoo News drivers' constant fear of fines has gotten out of hand on Aussie roads after authorities warned they could cop a $410 fine if their passengers reclined the passenger seat too far back.

"It seems ludicrous, but there are real-life examples of people being charged for this offence, and when it comes to traffic offences, it can be fairly unforgiving," he said.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Mountmellick will see the rollout of full fibre broadband very soon as SIRO starts work to extend in in the Laois town.

Installation works will commence in Mountmellick in March and are expected to complete in May. SIRO says planned electricity outages will be required between the week of March 19 and the week of April 28 inclusive. The providers say these will be coordinated with ESB Networks.

The company told the Leinster Express / Laois Live impacted residents and businesses will be notified in advance of these outages, with SIRO and ESB Networks working closely to minimise disruption.

Areas that will be covered by the rollout include, but are not limited to:

Willow Grove

Grange Hall

St Josephs Terrace

Esker Gate

Manor Grove

Ash Grove

Silverwood Kirwan Park

Hawthorn Ave

Twomey Terrace

Pattisons Estate.

READ NEXT: Housing demand for rapidly growing Laois town

Commenting on the expansion, John Keaney, SIRO Chief Executive Officer said: "Investing in Mountmellick is part of SIRO's commitment to delivering high-quality fibre broadband to towns across Ireland. Access to reliable, high-speed broadband is essential for supporting local businesses, enabling remote work, and improving quality of life. We are excited to bring our transformative fibre broadband to Mountmellick."

SIRO says high-speed, reliable broadband will be available to 1,940 premises, including homes and businesses in Mountmellick once Once the rollout is complete.

SIRO is a joint venture infrastucture system from ESB and Vodafone. Portlaoise was one of the first towns in Ireland to benefit from the broadband provided by SIRO.
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A Laois mother of a child with severe autism has been left with no option but to quit her job and homeschool her son, due to the lack of school places in special schools and ASD units.

Sofia Tyrell from Portarlington told the Leinster Express / Laois Live that her struggle to source assistance and a school place for her six year old son Issac.

Due to a lack of school places in the Laois/Offaly area, Ms Tyrell has received admission refusals from 14 different schools for the 2025/2026 academic year.

"This is my second year of applying to schools and units and receiving refusals," Ms Tyrell said.

"Issac is currently in a unit for pre-primary school toddlers, as there are no available school places in primary school units or special schools. I have been told I might be waiting three years," she said.

Pictured: Ms Tyrell's six year old son Issac

"We had to apply to get a one year extension to his time in the pre-primary unit, he should be going into senior infants now," Ms Tyrell said.

"He is two years behind at the moment, and we can't get another extension to his time in the unit. He needs a school place desperately," she explained.

Six-year-old Issac was diagnosed with ASD, and has two special needs assistants due to his complex needs.

"People say they wouldn't change a thing about their children, but I would give my left leg to take away these needs, to know that he will move on to live a healthy and happy life. But realistically, he is going to be with me forever," Ms Tyrell said.

"We have applied for so many things, even respite, and we have been refused everything. We get no extra help," she said.

"We are completely stuck, and we are both suffering for it. He is a major flight risk, he doesn't understand fear or danger, which is what scares me," Ms Tyrell admitted.

"His teacher has told me she doesn't know how I do it. He isn't the most severe in the unit, but he is the hardest to work with."

Pictured: Ms Tyrell and Issac



Ms Tyrell explained that while applying to dozens of schools, many schools told her that they are not even accepting applications.

"One school told me that there are at least 70 students on the waiting list ahead of Issac," she said.

"In some cases I have been told that there's no point in even sending an application in, that they won't even keep the application on file."

The unit Issac is currently in is attached to an all-girls mainstream school, which has recently opened a new special classroom. Ms Tyrell explained that in her desperation, she attempted to get her son a spot in this class.

"I was so desperate, I even tried to get him into an all-girls' school, because it's still a special classroom," she said.

Ms Tyrell is left with no option but to homeschool her son, which would mean giving up her job in the social care sector.

"We are left with no viable options, if I homeschool him I will have to give up my job, and I wouldn't be able to pay for private therapies. I am trying to work more now to save for September, in case this does happen," she said.

"I work with children who have additional needs, and I love it. It's quite difficult for me to say, but with going to work and then coming home, I am on fight or flight 24/7," she said.

"I work with it and I come home to it, there is no break from it. For my own mental health, Issac needs to be in school. If I don't work, I can't provide for him," she said.

Pictured: Six year old Issac and his mother Sofia

The Portarlington mother discussed her fears of Issac regressing through homeschooling.

"Kids behave differently at home. He won't sit at a table for me the way he would in a setting with other children," Ms Tyrell said.

"It could be years before he gets a place. I don't want to mask the issues at home by doing home tuition. I would have to give up work, and then there are no private therapies in place for him. There would be huge regressions.

"We are stuck in this confined apartment, and homeschooling would have a domino effect on the whole family. When we leave the house, I need two people to bring him out with me. I am mentally drained," she said.

"I could pick any school for my teenager, she can go anywhere in life. When you have a child with special needs, you just have to take what you're given," she said through tears.

To apply to the schools, you now also need an eligibility letter from a Special educational needs officer (SENO).

"I don't drive, so even if the Special Educational Needs Officer puts Issac on a list for a special school, if somewhere comes available, it could be two or three hours away. I have to collect him quite often, by the time I get to him, school could be finished.

"I am knocking on every door, I would give my left leg for him to have a secure placement next September," she said.

"No one is listening and no one is answering. I am passed from professional to professional, no one has an answer for me, and there is no one to turn to when you have no options. The problem is just being hidden," Ms Tyrell said.

Ms Tyrell explained that she recently brought Issac to a private pediatrician for his self-injury behaviours.

"We wanted to look into therapies and medications and we were refused, because his self-injury behaviour is due to his lack of understand danger, it isn't to intentionally harm himself," she said.

Pictured: Issac has been in a pre-primary unit for over two years

"We receive no therapies from the HSE, If you do get them it's for two weeks and they never contact you again, I have had the speech and language therapists come out to the house and they are moved on to new areas quickly," Ms Tyrell said.

"I'm told someone will be in touch with me to sort a new therapist, and no one gets back to me. Absolutely nothing, whatever we do I source myself, and even private therapies are hard to come by.

"My son deserves an education, just like the rest of his peers. Just like everyone else," she said.

"I can't get him an extension for another year in the unit. I am going to shout from the tallest lamppost to fight for him," she said.

This year, many special schools have changed their admissions period from Spring months to the previous winter period. Ms Tyrell was dismayed, and has said that she and fellow parents were not informed of this change.

"Enrollment to special schools locally was moved from this March to last October, and I wasn't informed by schools or the HSE," she said.

"No one told me that it was no longer early spring, but the previous winter. I went to the schools in early January thinking I was getting ahead, and was told 'no sorry, we've changed the criteria.' No one had informed us," she said.

"It looks great up in the Dail when they can say that their applications have gone down, when they actually haven't."

"My back is against the wall, I feel like I have screamed and reached out to everyone. There is no one left to reach out to. We shouldn't have to be begging for these services," Ms Tyrell finished.
Laois woman and Hodgkins Lymphoma survivor, Ellen Deegan from Stradbally is calling on her local community to go all in against cancer for the Irish Cancer Societys Daffodil Day, which takes place on Friday, March 28.

Ellen was diagnosed with cancer when she was only 15 after developing a lump on her neck and experiencing ongoing fatigue. Ellen is now thankfully doing well and wants to encourage her community to support this years Daffodil Day.

Reflecting on her cancer experience, Ellen said: I will always remember the day I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkins Lymphoma. It was only when the doctor began discussing chemotherapy and wigs that I fully realised I had been diagnosed with cancer. I was so young; I didnt properly process it all. I broke down at the thought of losing my hair, I loved it so much and couldnt bear the idea of not having it anymore.

READ NEXT: Gardai investigating report of car being searched in Laois

Every euro raised on Daffodil Day is crucial and makes a real lasting difference, fuelling life changing cancer research and vital support services, I would encourage everyone to please get out there and donate on Daffodil Day, March 28th, and show your support for those affected by cancer in your local community.

The Irish Cancer Society is there to ensure that every person affected by cancer has a place to turn to, the support they need and the hope that there will come a day when no one in Ireland dies from cancer.

Thanks to the amazing generosity of the Irish public, the Irish Cancer Society invests in groundbreaking cancer research and delivers crucial free support services for people affected by cancer, throughout Laois. In 2024, your generous support provided:

Almost 400 free lifts to bring Laois-based cancer patients to their treatment

Over 310 free counselling sessions to people living in Laois.

Over 280 nights of free Night Nursing care to allow cancer patients in Laois to die at home surrounded by loved ones

Our Cancer Nurses had over 240 conversations with people living in Kilkenny on our Support Line and in our Daffodil Centres.

Irish Cancer Society CEO Averil Power said: One in two of us will hear the words Youve got cancer in our lifetimes. There isnt a family in Ireland that hasnt felt the impact of a cancer diagnosis. Right now, a child is hearing the words Its cancer. A parent is holding on to hope for a treatment that hasnt been discovered yet. And a researcher has an idea that could turn that hope into reality. Your support on Daffodil Day fuels life changing cancer research and vital free services and supports. We really need this years Daffodil Day to be the biggest yet to ensure we can be there for those who need us most in 2025. And we cannot do this without you.

Your generosity on March 28 means patients and their families will have free supports like Counselling, Transport to treatment and Night Nursing services. Every year, communities across Laois show up and paint the town yellow in support of cancer patients and their families. Were urging you to stand with cancer patients once again, by going all in against cancer and getting involved or donating this Daffodil Day 28 March. Your generous support means everyone affected by cancer in Laois will have access to the support they need, when they need it most."

Where the donations go:

30 can help provide transport for a patient to and from their chemotherapy treatment using the Irish Cancer Societys Transport Service.

50 can help provide vital clinical equipment for an Irish Cancer Society Night Nurse.

55 will help pay for the cost of one hour of Night Nursing, providing end of life care to a patient in their own home.

60 will cover the cost of a counselling session to help a person cope with a cancer diagnosis in their life.

455 will help cover the cost of one night of Night Nursing, providing end of life care to a patient in their own home.

For more information about Daffodil Day visit HERE.
Kildare County Council has plans to purchase a historic house near the town centre in Naas.

The Alms House at Dublin Road is derelict and has been vacant for about 20 years, according to local councillor Anne Breen.

A Naas Municipal District committee meeting was told that KCC is at an advanced stage in regards to the purchase of the property.

READ NEXT RIP: Tributes flood in for 'Irish legend' Pat Ingoldsby following his passing

The meeting was also told that the owner of the property adjacent to Alms house is in regular communication with the vacant homes team and is preparing plans to develop the site.

Cllr Breen commented that both properties need attention.

KCC said it will continue to monitor progress at both sites.

Just over a year ago plans to develop Alms House into apartments were abandoned.The Peter McVerry Trust, the national homeless and housing charity, had intended to redevelop this property.

The plan was to provide three self contained own door units consisting of one bedroom each, for housing accommodation purposes.

But the trust later advised KCC it is no longer in a position to carry out this redevelopment.

KCC then started talks with the St Vincent de Paul Society regarding ownership of and the future use of the property.

According to the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, the building, also known as the Widows House, is of considerable historical and social importance and the building attests to the longstanding presence of an almshouse on the site, the earliest of which is dated to 1590.

It was extensively renovated in the late 20th century to accommodate residential use and the building remains an attractive feature on the streetscape.

It dates back to 1919.
A Clane-Maynooth meeting held on Friday March 7 is set to once again be dominated by transport and roads issues.

Cllr Paula Mulroe (SD) will ask that Kildare County Council to consider the feasibility of providing a school traffic warden at Staplestown National School.

Meahwhile, a motion tabled by Cllr Angela Feeney (LAB) will call on the council to review a 500m public path alongside the R406.

Cllr Feeney will ask that the council improve the drainage and potentially widen the path to insert a cycle lane.

READ NEXT: 'Amazing' prizes at fundraising night for Kildare school

A motion raised by William Durkan (FG) will call on the council to contact Waterways Ireland to improve greenway access.

This, his motion will state, is to allow parking provision and enhanced sight lines at Kilmore Bridge on the L1003.

Separately, a Fine Gael councillor is to ask the council to provide a timeline as to when safety improvement works will commence at Straffan National School.

According to Cllr Tim Durkan, funding in the amount of 100,000 is now made available from Local Property Tax.

Cllr Padraig McEvoy (IND) will ask the council to provide an update on plans to implement the agreed reallocation of road space to improve active travel on the L1023 Ballinagappa Road, Clane.

While Cllr Peter Melrose (SD) will ask the council to provide a costing for public lighting along the Dunboyne Road, Maynooth, from the Dunboyne roundabout to the junction of the Dunboyne Road R148.

Moving on from transport issues, Age Friendly housing will be the topic of a motion tabled by Cllr Paula Mulroe (SD).

Cllr Mulroe is to look for an update on the expected delivery of Age Friendly housing units including number and location that will be delivered in the Clane-Maynooth Municipal District within the timeframe of the current Age Friendly Kildare County Strategy 2023 to 2027.

Meanwhile, Cllr Peter Melrose (SD) is to seek an update on securing a suitable site for a primary care centre for Maynooth, in light of the allocated zoning for such in the Maynooth JLAP.

Cllr Melrose will ask that the council write to the Integrated Healthcare Area Manager, HSE Kildare West Wicklow, to ask for an update.

Cllr William Durkan (FG) will call for an update of any actions taken to advance a solution to wastewater issues in Mooretown Drive, Rathcoffey.

And finally, Cllr Daragh Fitzpatrick (FF) is to ask the local authority to confirm any benefits to the local community in light of the increased tonnage in Drehid Landfill as a result of a recent An Bord Pleanala decision.
There is still time to make a submission to Uisce Eireanns non-statutory consultation for the Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region before midnight on March 4.

This is a once in a generation project and is the first major new source water infrastructure in the region in the last 60 years. It will deliver a safe, secure, sustainable source of water supply necessary to support our growing population and economy, including the demand for housing.

It is a project that will enable us to adapt to the effects of climate change by diversifying our water supply sources.

The consultation provides all stakeholders with an opportunity to give feedback on the proposed project until March 4, in advance of Uisce Eireanns submission of the planning application to An Bord Pleanala.

The Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region proposes to abstract water from Parteen Basin, upstream of Parteen Weir on the Lower River Shannon, utilising a maximum of 2% of the long term average flow at Parteen Basin.

It is proposed that the water will be treated near Birdhill, Co. Tipperary and treated water will then be piped 170km through counties Tipperary, Offaly and Kildare to a termination point reservoir at Peamount in County Dublin, connecting into the Greater Dublin Area water distribution network.

The project will develop a new, climate-resilient, long-term water source to meet the demands of a growing population and economy, including the need for housing, as well as enabling us to adapt to the effects of climate change by diversifying our water supply sources.

READ NEXT: Clane-Maynooth Municipal District meeting preview

This essential project will provide Dublin, Meath, Kildare and Wicklow with a resilient, safe, secure water supply. It will also create a treated water supply spine across the country, providing infrastructure with the capacity for future offtakes to serve communities along the route in Tipperary, Offaly, and Westmeath.

In addition, it will enable supplies currently serving Dublin to be redirected back to Louth, Meath, Kildare, Carlow and Wicklow, providing security of supply to homes and businesses, which will support growth and regional development.

As part of the Consultation process, Uisce Eireann has hosted a number of public information open days at key locations along the route in Tipperary, Offaly and Kildare, in addition to online webinars.

The consultation material can be viewed online at water.ie/watersupplyproject where you can make a submission. The feedback received in response to the consultation will be used to inform the design and accompanying environmental reports, where appropriate, in advance of submitting a planning application to An Bord Pleanala.

Speaking about the Consultation, Infrastructure Delivery Director at Uisce Eireann, Maria ODwyer, said: Water supply in the Eastern and Midlands region faces a number of serious challenges, notably the over-reliance on the River Liffey to supply 1.7 million people in the Greater Dublin Area.

With forecasts showing that the region will need 34% more water by 2044 than is available today, this combination of a growing water supply deficit and lack of supply resilience is simply not sustainable. This consultation is another major milestone towards the delivery of this essential infrastructure.

We have had very constructive engagement with stakeholders, landowners and communities along the route during the consultation process, and look forward to reviewing all the submissions.

The consultation opened on January 7 and will close at midnight this Tuesday, March 4 2025.

Further information including webinars, Frequently Asked Questions and details on how to make a submission can be found at www.water.ie/watersupplyproject.
Lucy Coade and Sandra Quigley from 'The Bridge' Camphill Community charity in Kilcullen, Co Kildare will take on an epic 100km trek on the Camino de Santiago to raise funds for a dream holiday for community members.

The holiday for members that will bring joy, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.



Donate: Support their journey via the following:

iDonate https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/CamphillTheBridge1592

GoFundMe https://gofund.me/aca494f0

PayPal https://bit.ly/CaminoFundPaypal



A series of events will take place from now until May, giving everyone the chance to get involved and show support.

Your support will help Lucy and Sandra take their journey one step further and will provide a life-changing holiday experience for those who call Camphill home.



Fundraising Events:

 Coffee & Pancakes Morning  March 4, The Bridge, Kilcullen

 Family Fun Day BBQ  The Bridge, Kilcullen, April (Date TBC)

 Table Quiz Night  May 9 (Venue TBC)

All funds raised at these events will go directly toward the Camino fundraising goal, with portion of the proceeds helping to cover essential expenses for the Camino de Santiago trek.



A spokesperson said:

"This challenge is more than just a walk. It's about coming together as a community to support a cause close to our hearts. Your donations will provide Community Members with a holiday theyve been dreaming of, offering them a much-needed break and a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.

"We need your support to help make this dream come true! Share, donate, and join us in making a real difference.

"Donate Now and help us reach our goal!"

READ MORE: Last call to Kildare householders on water consultation.
A driver was disqualified from driving for three years when he appeared before the recent sitting of Carrick-on-Shannon District Court.

The driving ban was imposed on Dermot Campbell, 47, with an address at High Street, Drumshanbo, for drink-driving following legal arguments concerning procedural adherence and breath test reliability. The conviction follows an incident on April 16, 2023, when Campbell was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. He was represented in court by barrister Adrian McDonagh BL. According to Garda testimony, Campbell was stopped at 1.20 am in Carricknabrack after allegedly driving erratically on a road towards Manorhamilton. Garda Gareth Cummins, who was on duty in a patrol car, testified that he had to take evasive action to avoid a collision when Campbells silver Audi crossed the white line into oncoming traffic.

The court heard that the Gardai followed the vehicle towards Drumshanbo Village, where it was observed again crossing the white line before they activated blue lights and signaled the driver to pull over. When Campbell was stopped, he provided his Irish driving licence, confirming his identity and address at High Street, Drumshanbo.

"I got a smell of intoxicating liquor and his eyes were bloodshot," Garda Cummins stated in court. As a result, Campbell was asked to provide a roadside breath sample using the Drager 7510 under Section 9 of the Road Traffic Act 2010. The test resulted in a fail, leading to his arrest.

At Carrick-on-Shannon Garda Station, Campbell provided a further breath specimen, which returned a reading of 67 micrograms of alcohol per 100 milliliters of breath, above the legal limit.

Campbells barrister, Adrian McDonagh BL, questioned whether the Garda had waited the necessary 20-minute period before forming an opinion on intoxication. "Mr. Campbell, Judge, on the Garda's own admission, would have been let go if this test had been passed."

Further legal discussions centered on whether the Gardai followed correct procedures in requiring an evidential breath test. The defense suggested that Garda Cummins had deferred discretion to his colleague, Garda Flannery, and had not properly exercised his own authority in administering the test. "It seems, Judge, that in all the circumstances Garda Cummins just effectively rolled over to Garda Flannery and proceeded."

The prosecution countered that the breath test was conducted properly and that Campbells driving behavior, the smell of alcohol, and the failed breath test provided grounds for arrest. "The failed test was not the icing on the cake, Judge. It was the cake," the prosecution stated. They also argued that there was no requirement for the Garda to wait 20 minutes before administering the test. "There was no reason to suppose he had consumed alcohol within the previous 20 minutes."

He also questioned the distance to Miner's Bar in Arigna.

The court heard that Campbell has ten previous convictions, including nine road traffic offenses, but none related to drink-driving. The defense highlighted that Campbell is a caregiver for his mother and requested leniency in sentencing.

After reviewing the evidence, Judge Sandra Murphy ruled that the prosecution met the burden of proof. "I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the evidence supports a conviction," she stated. The judge nonetheless imposed a fine of 500 and disqualified Campbell from driving for three years.

READ MORE Young man jailed for repeatedly driving without insurance
Starting a career in multimedia Advertising Sales could prove to be your launch pad into a long-term, successful future in the media sector. If you have the communication skills to present well and persuade customers of the immense value of advertising, it could be both highly lucrative and personally rewarding.

About Us

Iconic Media Group is Irelands largest independently owned newspaper group, with an unrivalled audience in print, online and mobile. As part of the group's development strategy, we are now seeking Media sales advisors to join the advertising sales team working on Leitrim Observer and Leitrim Live.

About the role

As a media sales advisor you will be responsible for a portfolio of existing customers and for developing new relationships with potential advertisers. As part of an experienced and dedicated sales team youll be fully supported to learn and understand your role and how to follow and convert sales leads and achieve targets.

About you

This is an exciting opportunity to develop a long-term, successful sales career in the publishing sector. And if you have the communication skills and tenacity to persuade customers of the immense value of advertising, it could be both highly lucrative and personally rewarding. Customer service or call centre experience would be ideal, but above all else we are seeking ambitious relationship builders with excellent communication skills. Professional, personable and able to inspire others, youll need to demonstrate the confidence to hit the ground running.

We offer a competitive salary and massive career progression for the right fit.

To apply please email your CV with cover letter to Olivia Cooper at ocooper@iconicnewspapers.ie

READ MORE: PICTURES: Leitrim Association London hosts annual dinner dance
The post comes as work continues to determine how widespread a significant rickettsia bacterial disease is among the state's salmon farms.

Senator Jonno Duniam, the Liberal Senator for Tasmania and shadow minister for the environment, poses with Tasmanian salmon. Source: Facebook/Getty

An Aussie senator has been met with a barrage of criticism after declaring he will "proudly continue to buy" Tasmanian salmon, insisting it remains "healthy," even as authorities scramble to assess the full extent of a disease outbreak that has recently led to mass fish deaths and rotting carcasses washing up on beaches in the state.

Tasmania's Liberal senator Jonno Duniam, also the shadow minister for the environment, posted on social media from the car park of a supermarket on Monday, saying he "won't be emotionally blackmailed into stopping."

"[I] will proudly continue to buy it from Hill Street and every other shop that will sell it. Its healthy. Its Tasmanian," he wrote.

The salmon product he is holding in the photo is currently not available online at either Coles or Woolworths.

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The post drew a wave of backlash, however, particularly from locals demanding greater transparency in the self-regulated industry. Critics claimed that farmed salmon are fed harmful antibiotics, contaminating waterways and posing potential risks to human health.

"No ones blackmailing anyone. By their own admission the fish have a new bacteria that even the farms dont know what it is OR what the impact will be," one constituent fired responded.

"If you honestly believe it's healthy Jonno, please eat it to your heart's content ... I'd rather see you pollies eat this toxic crap that you are promoting, than feed it to my family," another fired back.

"You're supporting a toxic system that is not even locally owned anymore. Enjoy your dinner," commented a third.

Drone footage showed salmon rotting inside farms at both Huon Aquaculture and Tassal sites in Tasmania. Source: Bob Brown Foundation

Calls for greater transparency in Tasmanian salmon sector

The debacle comes weeks after Tasmania's salmon industry first revealed it was grappling with a significant outbreak of a rickettsia bacterial disease, leading to elevated mortality rates across multiple fish farms in the region.

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The Environmental Protection Agency and the Tasmanian Government are investigating the issue, though the exact scale of the die-off remains uncertain as mandatory mortality reporting requirements are not yet in effect. Independent federal Member for Clark, Andrew Wilkie, accused the Tasmanian government of taking a "hands-off" approach with regard to the salmon industry, worth an estimated $1 billion.

"The EPA only does what it's allowed to do and resourced to do by the Tasmanian government, so this, in essence, goes back to the state government's responsibility and  [it] doesn't seem to care about all these unknowns," Wilkie told the ABC.

"It was very worrying [the EPA] didn't know how many fish had died, didn't know which kind of rickettsia had affected them, didn't know the effect of the big spike in antibiotic use both on the natural environment as well as human consumption.

"The problem here is  both Labor and Liberal governments for many, many years have been beholden to the salmon industry and have accepted that the industry will largely self-regulate and self-report."

Masses of dead rotting fish were photographed in salmon pens in the Huon Channel. Source: Bob Brown Foundation

Images shared by the Bob Brown Foundation show rotting salmon carcasses in pens and along shores of state's beaches such as Verona Sands and Bruny Island.

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Alistair Allan, the group's Antarctic and Marine Campaigner, said Australian consumers "are now seeing the disgusting truth" about the industry.

"We are hearing that local tips cant manage all the rotting fish and its being dumped on farmland," he said last week.

Yahoo News has contacted major farmers Huon and Tassal for comment. Yahoo has also contacted Senator Duniam's office.

'Foul' fish chunks wash ashore

Last month, shocked Tasmanian residents of a small coastal town discovered mysterious "foul-smelling chunks" scattered along the shoreline at their local beach, thought to come from salmon farms.

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"The smell was terrible, and locals are not happy," community group Neighbours of Fishfarming said alongside photos of the stinky substance. "Its no secret that the salmon farms are having huge mortality events ... and we are concerned that this foul pollution is a direct result of mishandling of the fatty diseased salmon carcasses."

The strange chunks were initially thought to be rotting salmon. Source: Huon/Facebook/Polly Venning

Verona Sands beach lies on the Huon River in southern Tasmania, near salmon farms operated by Huon Aquaculture. The chunks were spotted by locals who said there was "tonnes and tonnes and tonnes" of the fishy material on the sand, with speculation it was possibly fish feed.

Huon Aquaculture later said confirmed chunks were not rotting pieces of fish, but believed to be "fish oil", creating "chunks of oily sand on the beach".

Tasmania has the largest marine salmon farming industry in the country and is responsible for more than 90 per cent of Australian Atlantic salmon production, according to the state government, with an annual value of over $1 billion.

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment?  Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
Ireland needs to boost its pitiful level of defence spending, DUP leader Gavin Robinson has said.

Mr Robinson said Ireland had relied on the UK for defence for too long, adding that the Irish navy is not worth mentioning.

This week Taoiseach Micheal Martin is due to take part in a EU leaders summit where European security and defence will be discussed.

Tanaisate Simon Harris has indicated he is to introduce draft legislation to amend Irelands triple lock on the deployment of Defence Forces peacekeepers overseas.

The deputy premier insisted the proposed changes would not impact Irelands military neutrality.

During a press conference on Monday, Mr Robinson was asked if Ireland needed to contribute more towards the defence of Europe.

He said: They have to put more money in their own defence.

For far too long the Republic of Ireland Government have rested on the defence of the United Kingdom.

They have no radar cover, they have no air support, they have a navy not worth mentioning.

They cant defend themselves, let alone anybody else.

He added: They have a requirement and a need to step up to the plate before they think about international contributions, about actually defending their own nation.

They will talk in the next number of weeks about how proud they are, and in the Dail they are now considering legislative change to remove the triple lock which prevents the Irish Republic from ever deploying their armed forces.

But they need to get back to basics and they need to provide some resource to allow them to do anything other than what they are doing currently, because so far it has been pretty pitiful.
Robert Friedland, Founder and Executive Co-Chairman of Ivanhoe Mines and Founder of I-Pulse Inc., the majority shareholder in Ivanhoe Atlantic.
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Joseph Fahn says this capacity-building support has been critical to empowering smallholder farmers, particularly in enhancing the cooperative management skills and agriculture practices
A reptile expert is concerned residents in new housing estates aren't aware of the risk of dangerous snakes living in grasslands around them.

A resident in a new home in Box Hill was "surprised" to discover an eastern brown snake in his kitchen. Source: Urban Reptile Removal

A discovery inside a suburban home has prompted a warning to Aussies moving into new developments. Cooling itself on the shiny white floor was one of the worlds deadliest land snakes, an eastern brown.

He caught me by surprise, I took half a step into the kitchen and then saw him cross the floor, 24-year-old resident Hunter told Yahoo News.

Large numbers of homes in the northwest Sydney suburb of Box Hill are only a few months old, and sit on what was once farmland. In Australia, animals like koalas are moved away when developers move in, but reptiles are often left to try and eke out an existence in what remains of their former grassland habitat.

Chris Williams, the founder of Urban Reptile Removal, was called out to catch the eastern brown last week. When he arrived, the snake was hiding under a drinks cabinet, struggling to move across the slippery tiles.

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It couldnt really get a grip, so it was reluctant to move around. It felt safest tucked up against the drinks cabinet rather than trying to leave the home, he told Yahoo News. When the drinks cabinet was pulled away the snake acted defensively, throwing itself around erratically.

You can watch the eastern brown try to escape in the video below. Williams waited for the 80cm-long juvenile to settle down, and then was able to use his hook to get him into the net.

Why residents of new estates should be cautious about snakes

Its believed the snake crawled inside to escape the heat after Hunter accidentally left his garage door open. Having grown up in Australia, its not something hed ever do on purpose.

Ive had them in the backyard before, but one getting in the house is new, he said.

Related:  Warning to Aussies after dad captures eastern brown on driveway

The eastern brown snake took refuge under the drinks trolley after Hunter entered his new kitchen. Source: Urban Reptile Removal

When Chris Williams moved the drinks trolley away, the eastern brown moved defensively and erratically. Source: Urban Reptile Removal

Many of the callouts Williams receives about catching snakes in the western suburbs of Sydney are from new residents to Australia. And he wants to warn them about risks they could be unwittingly taking, particularly in areas close to open land.

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In summer, in these new estates, residents need to know snakes are going to be on the move, and to take precautions, he said.

With many new Australians, the custom is to have shoes out of your house on racks, and theyre a great place for snakes to hide. And leaving doors open, especially during hot weather, is an open invitation to them.

Chris Williams wants residents of new estates to be aware they could be home to eastern brown snakes. Source: Urban Reptile Removal

Eastern browns are the second-most venomous land snake in Australia, after the inland taipan. While they have a reputation for being aggressive, theyre actually more of a defensive reptile with a habitat of striking and puffing themselves up to avoid being killed by humans.

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In Australia, all native reptiles are protected and it is an offence to harm them. Anyone with a snake inside their home is urged to contact a licensed reptile handler.

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Smith was trained by Save the Children and certified by the Liberia Ministry of Health.
Over the centuries, Limerick has lost many of its landmark buildings  some losses will be very familiar to readers of the Limerick Leader, others not so. One such building was the Linen Hall situated on Carr Street (now home to a partially erected building). Occupying a prominent position in the heart of Irishtown, the Linen Hall was central to efforts at promoting the textile industry in Limerick and the wider region.

According to Lenihans History of Limerick (1864), the Limerick Chamber of Commerce began to initiate several movements for the development of industrial pursuits in Limerick and it gave premiums for the production of linen. It also built at a sizable cost, a Linen Hall.

That project was announced in the Limerick Gazette on August 14, 1818: the Grand Jury granted 300 to Joseph Massy Harvey, James Fisher and John McNamara, trustees for the promotion of industry in the county and city of Limerick.

The Chamber of Commerce also provided 1,000 to the project to erect a neat and convenient Linen Hall.

During this period Irish linen was in high demand, and it was hoped that such an investment would provide much employment for the many poor people, of both sexes.

The site of an old tanyard was chosen as the plot on which to erect the Linen Hall. The original building was extensive and was reported to have had a dome shaped roof with an imitation spinning wheel on top. The hall also housed a large committee room while the manager and his family lived onsite in purpose-built quarters. A large yard was attached to the building. The only visual record of its lost grandeur is found in the background of a photograph from the late-1980s. On the site of the Linen Hall was found a building featuring six tall Gothic arches; the second floor had been replaced by a crude galvanised roof. Another section of the Linen Hall complex that survived until about 1990 was possibly the offices and living quarters. Several photographs of this section are available. This part of the Linen Hall was a two-storey, six-bay building featuring a Georgian doorcase with fanlight surmounted in dressed limestone.

READ MORE: Landmark building in Limerick's Georgian quarter sold

The Linen Hall was not exclusively reserved for dealing in textiles, and by May 1820, the Limerick Savings Bank was operating from it. In July of the same year, the banks annual accounts were printed in the Limerick Chronicle by its secretary, Mr A Abell. The bank was a successful endeavour and held over 1700 on deposit. Pigots Directory of 1824 gave the address of the Limerick Savings Bank as the Linen Hall, Carr Street.

The Linen Hall was a bustling place of business, and the sale of linen, yarn and flax was accommodated. Markets were held over two days and there were also rooms for the reception and sale of brown and white lines. To promote the production of good quality textiles, the Chamber of Commerce gave financial incentives for the best linen, flax, and yarn sold each day. The Linen Hall was a commercial success according to accounts published on December 31, 1833. The enterprise held over 4670 on account. Its yearly expenditure included one years salary to the secretary (130), porters wages (15), stationery, printing, and newspapers (12), and a frame for the names of trustees (2 shillings).

Textiles included fleece, hackled flax, raw flax, wool, and yarn while the manufacturing equipment consisted of looms, wheels, reels and sets of hackles (tools used to work the flax).

The first manager was Terence Brady who died in January 1842 at the Linen Hall. His obituary described him as former Sergeant-Major of the County Limerick Regiment: a truly honest and worthy man.

Besides banking, other commercial activities took place in the Linen Hall. For example, in 1836, a meeting of the Farming Society was held at the premises chaired by John Green of Greenmount House, Patrickswell. The society held its annual show of stock at the large yard attached to the Linen Hall and presented awards to members residing in Limerick, Tipperary, Clare, and the City of Limerick. Prize categories included best milch cow, best Durham breed and best pen of ewes. Notice of the event was circulated in the local press by the secretary of the Linen Hall, James Bodkin who also acted as local contact for the Royal Agricultural Improvement Society of Ireland. Bodkin died suddenly at his house, 54 William Street in 1847 leaving behind a wife and family.

Although the Linen Hall traded successfully under the management of the Chamber of Commerce for about 30 years, the concern was leased to private interests from the 1840s when Egan and Browne, local merchants became the occupiers. In 1846, they invited members of the public to inspect the shawls, checks and ginghams manufactured by the Distressed Weavers of Limerick and offered for sale at the Linen Hall. Thomas Browne was the sole proprietor by 1848 and was very active in promoting the production and consumption of local manufactures.

Thomas Browne died in 1851 and was buried in his native town of Kilmihil, Co Clare.

Thereafter, newspaper reports of the Linen Hall appear less frequently until about 1865 when it was described as the old linen hall the site having been taken over by the extensive engineering business of James McFarlane.

When the 1871 OS map was published, the Linen Hall was not recorded. By 1911, the site was in use as a yard by Boyds. It remained in the ownership of the Chamber when it was sold to Lanigan Brothers for development.

It was subsequently demolished, thereby removing another landmark building and enterprise that played an important role in promoting homegrown industry and creating employment in the city.
MY TERM started in 2021 and Covid restrictions continued to apply, therefore most meetings were held online.

It was a challenge to hold monthly meetings online, but the surprising thing was if you had suggested the idea of online meetings in 2019, the majority would have said impossible. In 2025, online meetings via Microsoft teams have become normal and they have certainly reduced my time away from the farm and home.

The first half of my term was dominated by the evolving climate and emissions debate and the impact on farmers. The Climate Bill set out the groundwork for emission targets for agriculture.

Much time and effort was put into defending Irish livestock farming from any cull of the national herd. Farmers struggled to understand the science of methane emissions while observing the massive growth in fossil fuel emissions from transport and air travel.

Once the emission targets were set in 2022, the next issue that raised its head was nitrates emissions and the continued application of the Nitrates Derogation to Ireland.

Suddenly farmers had to become much more familiar with the interaction between spreading fertiliser and water quality. This is an ongoing campaign, and IFA continues to defend the derogation as this is crucial to the economic viability of the family farm.

On February 24, 2023, Russia invaded Ukraine and almost overnight the cost of the 3Fs (fuel, feed and fertiliser) increased dramatically. Fertiliser more than doubled. The long-term impact of that event continues to hit our industry with embedded higher costs of doing business.

The latest iteration of the CAP commenced in 2024 with increased convergence and capping of payments per farmer. There is no doubt that convergence has reduced the economic viability of many full-time livestock and tillage farmers.

As we speak today planning and discussions on the makeup and size of the CAP post 2028 have already commenced. IFA has already called out the necessity for an increased budget if the ambitions of supporting farmers incomes and environmental ambition are to be met. Farmers are totally frustrated that the CAP budget is eroded every year in real terms.

The great debate regarding nature and biodiversity sometimes takes place at events where farmers are not present. Nature and biodiversity cannot be maintained unless farmers are embedded in delivering better results.

Therefore, policies like ACRES need to work for farmers and not become bureaucratic exercises as they are now. Farmers across the country have a big fear that further land will be designated and restricted and no compensation will be offered to make up for the restrictions.

On the ground in Limerick major issues that impacted farmers were the Kerry Forward Milk Price Contracts, the Adare to Foynes Motorway project, and the reopening of the Limerick to Foynes railway.

Approximately 5.5 million was added to the compensation package negotiated for impacted farmers by the motorway by IFA. The rate per acre more than doubled to 6,500 per acre.

Individual farmers needed help with farm inspections and appeals, TB breakdowns and some very difficult farm credit cases.



Learnings

Three foreign trips to Brussels, Washington and London revealed that the policies that have the biggest impact on our livelihoods are decided firstly in Brussels followed by Washington and London. Our freedom to farm as we want is decided in Brussels where environmental ambition appears more important than food security.

This contrasts with a much more farmer friendly administration in Washington. No doubt this will become more obvious under the new US administration. London post-Brexit can cause problems for our beef exports with free trade deals.

The issue for IFA is competition between short term issues such as weather, fodder shortages, commodity prices, ACRES and longer-term policy changes around the CAP and the impact of European parliament decisions. If we get better results in the formation of long-term policy the short-term crises can be managed easier



Looking Forward

The biggest issues for Limerick and Irish farmers are farm succession and the age profile of our farmers, economic and political uncertainty in Europe and USA and the diminishing number of farmers.

The Irish government and the EU can help with the formation of policy that makes farming an attractive career option thus helping succession and ensuring that Irish farm family units are viable. Viable farm family units in rural areas are a win-win for the community.

Comparing the current situation in the UK where their government has destroyed farmer confidence with changes to inheritance reliefs with the ongoing reliefs for farm transfers in Ireland shows how important it is to have strong farmer representation.

READ MORE: PICTURES: Louise makes history as second female to lead Limerick IFA

I often hear farmers questioning the effectiveness of IFA, my simple reply is How much tractor diesel do you buy each year?. The green diesel rebate that IFA lobbies for each year is worth approximately 70 cent per litre. This rebate is not guaranteed and must be lobbied for each year. That is an individual benefit for every farmer.

I would like to thank Limerick IFA members for their support and also I could not have done my job without support of IFA staff in Limerick and Dublin and most especially my fellow county officers for support and advice.

In summary, I was proud to represent Limerick farmers for four years. At the end of my term I believe that farming is a great industry at the heart of every local community and well worth standing up for.
Stormonts new Programme for Government has set targets of building more than 5,000 new social homes and treating an additional 70,000 hospital patients by 2027.

The 100-page document also says the Executive will aim to increase renewable electricity capacity by 40% within the current Assembly mandate and progress a plan for speeding up the justice system.

The Programme for Government (PFG), which was agreed by ministers in the powersharing Executive last week, was published on Monday.

The document is called Our Plan: Doing What Matters Most and pledges to keep the public informed on progress by publishing annual reports.

The PFG sets out three key missions  people, planet and prosperity  with an underpinning cross-cutting commitment to peace.

It also highlights nine policy areas, entitled Doing What Matters Most Today, that the coalition will prioritise in the remainder of the mandate. They are:

 Grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy;

 Deliver more affordable, accessible, high-quality early learning and childcare;

 Cut health waiting times;

 End violence against women and girls;

 Better support children and young people with special educational needs;

 Provide more social, affordable and sustainable housing;

 Make communities safer;

 Protect Lough Neagh and the environment;

 Reform and transform of public services.

In their joint foreword, First Minister Michelle ONeill and deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly say: This Programme for Government is all about tackling those big issues.

Working with our colleagues in the Executive, we have agreed a set of ambitious priorities which will make real improvements across society both today and in the years ahead.

We know there are challenges. We are working in a reduced mandate and there is not enough funding to meet the needs of people here.

Our public finances and services are under pressure.

They add: We will continue to work together, speaking with one voice when engaging with the UK Government, to ensure a sustainable funding model in the future.

The PFG then sets out its target for each priority area.

 Grow a globally competitive and sustainable economy. The plan says that by the end of the current Northern Ireland Assembly mandate, the Executive will have supported industry to increase renewable electricity capacity by 40% and considered an Employment Rights Bill for introduction.

 Deliver more affordable, accessible, high-quality early learning and childcare. The PFG says by the end of the mandate there will be a comprehensive Executive agreed Early Learning and Childcare Strategy in place, delivering improved outcomes for children and parents.

 Cut health waiting times. The strategy says the Executive will invest up to 135 million a year to reduce waiting lists by treating an additional 70,000 patients and a further 80 million a year to increase elective care capacity through expansion of elective care centres and mega-clinics.

 End violence against women and girls. The document says by the end of the mandate a minimum of 100,000 programme participants will have been engaged in the VAWG strategy. It says there will have been three awareness-raising campaigns, and our society will have significantly increased understanding and awareness of issues and will know how to take action to prevent violence against women and girls.

 Better support children and young people with special educational needs (SEN). The target for 2027 is to have a comprehensive Executive-agreed SEN Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan in place, delivering improved outcomes for children with SEN, their families and the education workforce who support them.

 Provide more social, affordable and sustainable housing. By the end of the mandate, the plan says work will have started on at least 5,850 new-build social homes.

 Make communities safer. The plan sets a target of progressing a Speeding Up Justice Programme and have an Executive-agreed approach to reducing offending and reoffending, contributing to delivering improved outcomes for those who engage with the justice system.

 Protect Lough Neagh and the environment. The PFG says the Executive will deliver the actions in the Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan by 2027.

 Reform and transform public services. The plan says the Executive will by 2027 have successfully delivered a range of service improvements across the Executives priority areas and commenced digital transformation.

The document states the Executive has faced significant challenges in setting a budget for 2024/25 and the financial position remains very difficult.

It continues: Departments are facing tough decisions to manage their budgets and live within their funding allocations.

Furthermore, while we would like to work to a multi-year budget, the Executives overall budget envelope is set by Treasury as part of its Spending Review.

We know that for 2024/25 and for 2025/26 we must work within single-year funding envelopes.

This year, we had to agree a 2024/25 budget ahead of the Programme for Government to make sure departments had the certainty needed to run public services.

The PFG concludes: The Executive will work together to develop and agree detailed policies as we move to delivery.

We will keep you updated by publishing annual reports on the progress we are making.

This will show that meaningful progress is being made to deliver the projects and programmes included in the Programme for Government.
A coroner has proposed that an inquest into the death of a man believed to have killed his girlfriend and mother in separate knife attacks should be held separately to those of his two victims.

Coroner Anne-Louise Toal, however, said it made sense to hold the inquests into the deaths of Karen McClean-Flanagan and Stacey Knell together.

It is believed that Kenneth McClean-Flanagan, 26, murdered his mother Ms McClean-Flanagan, 50, and girlfriend Ms Knell, 30, in Newtownabbey in March 2021 before killing himself.

The double murder led to calls in the Northern Ireland Assembly for unified and determined action to tackle gender-based violence in Northern Ireland.

A first preliminary hearing in inquests into the three deaths was held at Belfasts Laganside Courthouse on Monday.

Ms Knells next-of-kin, the PSNI and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust were all legally represented at the hearing.

Ms Toal told the court she would write to the McClean-Flanagan family to update them on the proceedings and to tell them they are welcome to participate in the inquests.

Ronan Daly, counsel for the coroner, said it was the beginning of what is likely to be a reasonably significant disclosure phase in these inquests.

He said the coroner had already received a number of statements from civilians and police officers in relation to pathology, forensic reports and clinical summaries.

He added: Clearly this is the starting point in assimilation of materials.

Michael McAleer, a barrister representing Ms Knells family, said there had been a Domestic Homocide Review (DHR) carried out in the case.

Ms Toal said she would liaise with the offices of the DHR so that relevant documents would be disclosed to the coronial process.

She added: I just wanted to raise Mr Aleer whether it would be possible, or what the family views would be in relation to holding the inquests of Karen and Stacey together?

What my usual practice is, is to hold a short inquest into the death of Mr McClean-Flanagan, separate to those two.

I am mindful of the sensitivities obviously around these deaths.

That would be my proposed course, however, I am more than happy to hear any submissions from the family whether they would want all three heard together.

I would worry if I held Ms McClean-Flanagan and Ms Knells separately, we are going to be covering pretty much the same ground in both inquests.

It certainly makes sense to hold both their inquests together in one rolled-up inquest hearing.

Obviously there will be two separate sets of findings because technically it will be two separate inquests but to hold the hearings together with a separate one for Mr McClean-Flanagan.

She asked for the issue to be raised with the families.

Another preliminary hearing will take place on June 10.
Galwan Valley border clash hero Qi Fabao honored for outstanding performance as CPPCC member

Global Times) 13:45, March 03, 2025

(Photo/CCTV)

Qi Fabao, a PLA regiment commander who sustained a head injury while fighting bravely in the Galwan Valley border skirmish with India on June 15, 2020, was honored among 33 individuals for their outstanding performance as Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) members.

The award ceremony for the 2024 Outstanding Performance Award for CPPCC Members was held in Beijing on Sunday afternoon. The CPPCC Chairperson's Council meeting decided to commend committee members with exceptional performance, granting the award to 33 individuals, according to the CPPCC Daily. A news account affiliated with the Beijing Daily noticed that Qi was among these individuals.

In 2020, Qi, then a regiment commander in a border defense unit, fought courageously and stood his ground, leading his troops in resolutely countering the violent actions of foreign forces. Qi was awarded by the Central Military Commission with the title of "Hero Regimental Commander for Defending the Border" and honored with the July 1 Medal in 2021 by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

In January 2023, Qi was invited as a special guest and became a CPPCC member following the announcement of the list of members of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC, according to the website of the CPPCC National Committee.

Video footage from the 2024 "two sessions" shows that the scar on Qi's head was clearly visible, according to CCTV Military, the military channel of China Central Television (CCTV).

In June 2020, the Indian military violated the previous consensus and trespassed the Line of Actual Control and built tents. Out of respect to previous agreements and rituals, Qi, regimental commander of the Chinese military, went to negotiate with a few soldiers. However, the Indian military showed no sincerity and had already deployed more soldiers in an attempt to force the Chinese soldiers to concede, CCTV reported in February 2021.

When facing more Indian soldiers appearing from nearby mountains, while reproaching the Indian military for destroying the agreement, Qi organized Chinese soldiers to move into combat formations and engage in any confrontation, according to the CCTV's report.

The Indian military then started to attack the Chinese soldiers by using steel tubes and cudgels and throwing stones. Qi was under heavy attack and sustained a serious head injury, the CCTV's report said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
The response to the two-week-long New York correction officer strike has cost the state $25 million and could rise to $106 million a month if it continues for an extended period, officials said Monday.

Jackie Bray, commissioner of the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, provided the figure during a joint press briefing with Daniel Martuscello III, commissioner of the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

After the strike began on Feb. 17, Gov. Kathy Hochul activated the National Guard to provide security at prisons affected by the work stoppage. Bray said more than 7,000 National Guard members were mobilized, with over 5,300 working inside 41 of the state's 42 correctional facilities.

"The National Guard will stay for as long as we need the National Guard to stay," Bray said.

The state is beginning to take action against correction officers who refuse to end the strike and return to work. Termination notices have been sent to officers who have been absent for 10 days due to the walkout. According to Bray, less than 10 officers have been fired. But that number could grow if the strike continues.

DOCCS is ending health insurance for striking correction officers who have been absent without leave. Bray added that the state attorney general's office is in court Monday to initiate civil contempt proceedings against more than 350 officers for violating a judge's temporary restraining order to end the work stoppage.

The state's Taylor Law prohibits public employee strikes. It is illegal, Bray explained, because correction officers are considered essential employees and their work is "essential for the safety of the state."

The state's enforcement of the Taylor Law could lead to significant fines against the striking officers. The penalties can be equal to what the state is spending in response to the walkout, according to Bray. Employees who violate the law can be docked two days' pay for every day they are on strike.

"We want to encourage the correction officers and sergeants who haven't come back yet to come back," Bray said. "We don't want to take these actions. We want to give you the opportunity to return."

There has been some progress in the state's push to get striking correction officers back to work.

Officers at 38 of the state's 42 correctional facilities were participating in the strike when it began two weeks ago. Since a consent award was reached between DOCCS and the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, the union representing correction officers and sergeants, officers at six prisons  Fishkill, Green Haven, Hudson, Shawangunk, Sing Sing and Taconic  ended their walkout and returned to duty.

But Martuscello acknowledged that even as some officers return to work each day, "a large number of staff across the state continue to remain on strike." In Cayuga County, officers at Auburn and Cayuga correctional facilities rejected the agreement and are still on strike.

The agreement followed four days of mediation between DOCCS and NYSCOPBA, which represents the officers but did not sanction the strike. Since the deal was announced, Martuscello has taken additional actions to address concerns raised by staff. DOCCS has implemented a new policy requiring visitors to have a body scan before entering the facility. If they don't agree to the scan, they will be searched. If cleared by staff, they will be allowed entry for a non-contact visit.

The policy shift is in response to complaints from officers about contraband entering state prisons. They have raised other issues, including mandated overtime and the Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement Act, or HALT. HALT, which limits the use of segregated confinement in jails and prisons, has been blamed for the rise in prison violence since it was implemented three years ago.

Although the agreement temporarily suspends parts of HALT, officers want the law repealed. Martuscello said that was outside the scope of mediation because it would require legislative action.

A condition of the consent award was for officers to abide by the temporary restraining order and end their strike by Saturday. Despite it being past that deadline, Martuscello wants officers back at work.

"Correctional officers have a difficult job, let alone being understaffed," Martuscello said. "I see firsthand the impact it's had on correctional officers and their families, and I want to make sure that we continue to have this conversation as they play a vital role in public safety to this state.

"In order to continue this dialogue, though, we really need our staff to return to the workforce so we can operate safe facilities and provide safety to the surrounding communities."
Stormonts health minister has expressed surprise that the programme for government includes a pledge of 215 million a year to tackle waiting lists in Northern Ireland.

Mike Nesbitt said such investment would represent a dramatic and indeed very welcome turn of direction by the Executive as he noted that previous bids he made for ring-fenced funding to address waiting lists had been rejected.

In January, Mr Nesbitt told the Assembly that the Executives draft budget for 2025/26 provided no additional funding for waiting list reduction initiatives.

However, the PFG published on Monday includes a pledge to spend 80 million a year to prevent waiting lists getting any longer  and 135 million a year to reduce them.

Mr Nesbitt told reporters at Stormont he only became aware of the commitment when he received a final version of the PFG last week. He said work on developing the plans were not shared widely among all four parties in the Executive prior to that point.

The Ulster Unionist health minister said he would now be writing to First Minister Michelle ONeill, deputy First Minister Emma Little Pengelly and finance minister John ODowd to ask for a guarantee on the funding.

I just want certainty about the fact that this money is coming, he said.

Mr Nesbitt added: On the face of it, it is a dramatic and indeed very welcome turn of direction by the Executive because we have asked for money for waiting lists before and have had those bids rejected.

To be clear, 80 million a year is what is required to stop the waiting lists getting any bigger, and 135 million a year is what is required for five years in a row to reduce those waiting lists, so that everybodys being seen in a timely manner.

So I will be, for the avoidance of doubt, writing to the First Minister, deputy First Minister, and the finance minister just to clarify that is what they are proposing to do and to clarify also the timelines for that spend, because if that money is coming  the 135 million and the 80 million  I need to start planning immediately about getting that money out and getting people seen in a more timely manner.

He added: I didnt know this was coming. And other ministers have made the point that in terms of a four party coalition government, that it wasnt an equal distribution of knowledge, shall we say, in the build up to the publication of the final programme for government.

But, look, all I can say is, if that money is coming, it is going to be incredibly welcomed by those who have been waiting on really very, very long and unacceptable waiting lists for pain relief and for treatment.
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp. will give annual salary increases to its employees from August this year, making it the second time the Nasdaq-listed company has delayed salary hikes by at least five months.

In a town hall from the companys newly refurbished Kolkata office on Thursday, Cognizant chief executive S. Ravi Kumar promised salary hikes from 1 August even as bonuses to eligible employees will be rolled out in March.

Cognizant will award bonuses in March. Associates will receive eLetters with bonus details the week of 10 March," read Cognizants internal memo shared with employees and seen by Mint. The company further instructed managers to communicate the bonuses to their team members by 11 March.

The Teaneck, New Jersey-based company typically gives hikes and bonuses around March, but since Ravi Kumar took over as chief executive, bonuses are given in March while hikes are given in August. Cognizant last gave hikes ranging between 1% and 5% in August last year.

Kumars early proclamation of a hike this year is possibly being done to arrest attrition.

Voluntary attrition in the tech services arm, which makes up the bulk of the companys workforce, rose to 15.9% at the end of 2024 from 13.8% in the year-ago period. Attrition refers to the number of people who have left their company.

As of December 2024, Cognizants voluntary attrition is higher than peers such as Tata Consultancy Services Ltd, Infosys Ltd, and HCL Technologies Ltd, which reported attrition of 13%, 13.7%, and 13.2%, respectively, in the last 12 months.

To be sure, attrition for TCS and Infosys includes attrition for their IT services arm, whereas HCLTech excludes the digital process automation wing.

 merit increases for eligible associates will be awarded in August, exactly one year after the prior cycle," a spokesperson for Cognizant said in an email reply late Monday. In fact, with the August 2025 cycle, the majority of our associates will have received five merit increases within the past four years."

Turnaround ahead?

Kumar, since taking over the corner office of Cognizant, is in the midst of turning the company's fortunes around. Cognizant saw its full-year revenue decline in 2023, but in 2024, full-year revenue grew 1.98% to $19.74 billion.

Still, most of this growth was on the back of acquisitions.

Cognizant noted in its fourth-quarter earnings that its recently completed acquisitions of Belcan and Thirdera made up 200 basis points, or 2%, of its 2024 revenue growth. This implies that the companys business, discounting its acquisitions, declined last year.

Cognizant acquired Belcan in September 2024 for $1.3 billion to strengthen its position in the engineering research and development (ER&D) sector. In January of the same year, it acquired Thirdera for $430 million to build an artificial intelligence offering.

Indian IT services companies follow an April-March financial calendar, whereas Cognizant follows a January-December one.

Another reason for high attrition is Kumars policy of going after redundancies.

Four months after Ravi joined as chief executive, Cognizant said it would sack 3,500 employees in 2023. The firm even announced its plans to close 45% of its office space in India, which at that time had about 73% of the total 355,300 employees.

Its earlier policies of eliminating middle-to senior-level talent make it challenging for the company to retain talent.

Cognizants delay in rolling out hikes aligns with the industry practice as the largest homegrown software service providers are looking to combat uncertain macroeconomic conditions and shore up operating margins.

It is unusual that the company announced hikes this early," said an employee with knowledge of the matter. This announcement was probably made to retain employee confidence," added the employee.

A former employee voiced a similar sentiment.

The fact that Ravi Kumar had to announce Cognizants hikes five months before it would be effective is a cause for concern. Something is clearly not right, and Kumar wants the employees to know that hikes will be given and not skipped for any employee," said the former executive on anonymity.

Tough times

But Indian heritage Cognizant is not the only top service provider in the country to delay hikes.

Mumbai-based Tata Consultancy Services Ltd was the only large IT service provider to roll out increments on time, awarding employees hikes of 4.5-7% in the April-June 2024 period.

Also Read: Cognizant-L&T bribery case: Will US govts essential witness be able to testify?

Of the top five, Infosys and HCLTech have announced the rollout of salary hikes in tranches. While Infosys announced a first tranche of hikes ranging between 5% and 8% in February, HCLTech started rolling out hikes of around 7% in the October-December 2024 period.

Bengaluru-based Wipro Ltd handed out 4-8% salary increments from September last year. In contrast, Tech Mahindra Ltd rolled out fatter paychecks to employees in January, offering hikes of around 7% on average.

At least one expert said there was a larger reason behind the delay in hikes by the countrys largest software service providers.

The Indian IT industry is holding its breath and taking a defensive position," said Peter Bendor-Samuel, founder of Everest Group, a Dallas-based IT research firm.

Going into the year, it looked like the market had hit bottom, and we were set for a recovery. However, the uncertainty created by the new US administration is spooking the market. Clients are holding off on planned projects, and many in the industry fear we are sliding back into the delay and cancel environment we have been experiencing for the last two years," added Bendor-Samuel.

Note: The article has been updated to include Cognizant's reply to Mint's queries emailed on Saturday afternoon.
President Trump has paused new investigations into foreign bribery after criticizing the law against it, but two former officials of a New Jersey professional services company are about to go on trial under the statute anyway.

An executive order in early February put a halt to initiating any investigations or enforcement actions under the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and ordered a review of the laws guidelines and policies by Attorney General Pam Bondi. Nonetheless, jury selection is scheduled to begin Monday in Newark, N.J., in the trial of Gordon Coburn and Steven Schwartz, former executives at Cognizant Technology Solutions.

Coburn, Cognizants former president, and Schwartz, its former chief legal officer, were charged in 2019 over their alleged involvement in paying bribes in India, where the company has a large presence. Both men have pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors said last month they had reviewed the case in light of the order, and would be moving forward.

Many observers have been puzzled by the administrations move away from a law that has been among the most important tools the U.S. government has to police corporate behavior, issuing fines that have reached into the billions of dollars.

The decision to go ahead with the trial could add to the confusion on where the FCPA stands.

If the administration is pausing FCPA enforcement until there is DOJ guidance, then why is this case continuing?" said Sara Kropf, a defense attorney who represents individuals and companies accused of white-collar crimes. It is hard to believe that the government is continuing to prosecute these defendants for conduct that it would not even investigate right now."

A lawyer for Coburn and a representative for the Justice Department declined to comment. A lawyer for Schwartz didnt respond to requests for comment.

Depending on the outcome of Bondis review, the trial of Coburn and Schwartz could be one of the last major FCPA cases to go before a jury.

In a legal filing last month, the Justice Department said Bondi is also reviewing the case against an oil trader convicted in 2024 of paying bribes in Brazil. Trumps order requires Bondi to look at the possibility of remedial measures" when a past FCPA investigation or enforcement action was inappropriate."

The FCPA, passed in 1977, is meant to prevent U.S. and U.S.-listed corporations from using their financial heft to sway foreign officials, an expansive definition that U.S. law enforcers have interpreted to include even low-ranking government employees. Coburn and Schwartz are accused of involvement in paying about $2 million in bribes to secure a permit to open a new office campus in India.

In his Feb. 10 executive order, Trump said overexpansive and unpredictable FCPA enforcement  wastes limited prosecutorial resources" and actively harms U.S. economic competitiveness and national security. In his first administration, though, he ordered prosecutors to use the FCPA against Chinese companies that compete with American businesses in specific.

Prior to Trumps pause on the FCPA, Bondi had said she would use the law to pursue drug cartel-related prosecutions and shift its focus away from other targets.

The case against Coburn and Schwartz has already faced numerous delays and setbacks. At one point, the defense team accused prosecutors of improperly outsourcing their investigation into the men to the company itself, though a judge in 2023 said that didnt happen.

Cognizant, headquartered in Teaneck, N.J., has over 336,000 employees, most of them in India, and posted $19.7 billion in revenue last year.
Piramal Enterprises Ltd is planning to sell its holdings in Shriram Group's insurance ventures for 4,000-5,000 crore, two people aware of the matter said, as it looks to sharpen focus on its core lending business.

The Ajay Piramal-led group holds about 15% in Shriram General Insurance Co. Ltd and about 13.3% in Shriram Life Insurance Co. Ltd. The group has appointed Avendus Capital and Arpwood Capital as investment bankers to find buyers for its life and general insurance stakes respectively, the people cited above said on the condition of anonymity.

Piramal had acquired stakes in various Shriram companies more than a decade ago, after selling its pharmaceuticals business to Abbott Laboratories in 2010. In recent years, it has sold some of these stakes at a profit, and invested in other businesses like lending.

"Piramal's investments in both life and general businesses of Shriram have appreciated, and it is keen to exit since the focus of the Piramal Group is changing. The two bunches of stakes in Shriram are likely to be sold separately. There are several private equity and strategic entities which have shown interest in buying the stakes," one of the two people cited above said on the condition of anonymity.

Also read | Piramal Group to fund facility for mid-level govt exec training

Shriram Life Insurance earned a new business premium of 1,755 crore in FY25 till January, which is 24% higher year-on-year, while Shriram General Insurance underwrote a gross premium of 3,020 crore in the same period, also up 24%, data from the insurance regulator showed.

Spokespersons of Piramal Group and Shriram Group declined to comment, while emails sent to Avendus and Arpwood remained unanswered.

"Considering the premium a buyer has to pay for purchasing bulk stakes, the general insurance stake sale could be worth 3,000-4,000 crore, while the life insurance stake may be sold for about 1,000 crore, said the first person. "If one considers the FY24 end numbers, the valuation of Shriram Life could be 6,000-10,000 crore and the value of the general insurance company of Shriram Group could be 18,000-25,000 crore," the person added.

Both insurance companies are Shriram Capital's joint ventures with South Africa's Sanlam Group. Last year, Sanlam increased its stakes in both firms beyond 50%, by purchasing shares from TPG India Investments and Shriram Ownership Trust.

Also read | Piramal Group sharpens focus on AI, ML, analytics for digital efficiency

"Piramal Enterprises is consolidating its financial services business by merging with its housing finance arm Piramal Capital and Housing Finance Ltd, and rebranding the merged entity as Piramal Finance Ltd, simplifying the group structure and providing shareholders with direct access to the entire lending business. This strategic move is also aimed at eliminating cost duplication, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving customer experience," said the second person.

The two persons said through this consolidation, the group plans to capitalize on the country's thriving affordable housing business.

In May 2024, Piramal Alternatives Trust, the fund management division of the Piramal Group, announced an investment of 600 crore in a microfinance NBFC Annapurna Finance Pvt. Ltd.

"The exit from Shriram is a part of PEL's plan to sell non-core assets. The sale proceeds will strengthen its balance sheet and provide funds for future growth opportunities," said this person.

Also read | EV financing no longer risky, says Shriram Finance's executive vice chairman Umesh Revankar

Apart from the focus on lending, there is another reason as well.

The promoter of an insurance company with a 50% stake can hold only up to 10% stake in another insurance company, only under special conditions or with regulatory exemption. Piramal already holds 50% in Pramerica Life Insurance Ltd, and more than 10% in the Shriram ventures.

Selling stake in the life insurance firm will bring the group in line with regulatory norms, while the general insurance stake sale is purely a part of the strategy to sell off non-core assets and use the funds for investment in the lending business, the second person added.

Piramal sold its pharmaceuticals business to Abbott for about 17,000 crore in 2010 and invested part of the amount in key Shriram group firms. It bought 9.96% stake in Shriram Transport Finance Co. Ltd in May 2013 from the open market for 1,636 crore. Then in 2014, Piramal Enterprises had acquired an effective 20% equity stake in Shriram Capital Ltd for 2,014 crore.

In 2019 PEL sold its entire stake in asset financing firm Shriram Transport Finance Co. for 2,305 crore. In June 2024, Piramal sold its 8.3% stake in Shriram Finance for 4,824 crore in the open market.

In parallel, the Pirmal group is restructuring its core business.

Also read | In our sector, trust and credentials are key: Shriram Finances Venkatraman

In May, listed Piramal Enterprises decided to merge with unlisted PCHFL, which would spare the latter from the requirement of a public share sale under the central bank's rules for so-called upper-layer NBFCs. Selling off the insurance business stake will improve Piramal Enterprises' balance sheet before the merger, the second person added.
New Delhi: India may allow duty-free imports of US pulses, particularly lentils and dry peas, under a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA). two people aware of the matter said, amid trade tensions between the two nation.

The plan is part of an attempt to keep the US happy and Canada at bay following strained relations with Ottawa. This means a proposed move to impose an import duty on masur (lentils) will impact Canada, one of Indias main suppliers, while sparing the US.

With the import duty applicable to all exporting nations, the US will get duty-free access for a fixed quantity of lentils, similar to the arrangement India has with Australia under a trade agreement," said the first person.

Also read | Bilateral goods trade between India and UAE doubles as CEPA completes 3 years

Domestic production of lentils has been rising in the last few years, from 1.27 million tonnes (MT) in FY22 to 1.56 MT in FY23 and 1.8 MT in FY24, according to agriculture ministry data.

Key Takeaways India is considering allowing duty-free imports of US pulses, particularly lentils and dry peas, under a proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).

This move is seen as an attempt to strengthen ties with the US and counterbalance strained relations with Canada.

The proposed import duty on lentils will primarily affect Canada, a major supplier, while the US will be exempt for a fixed quantity.

As domestic lentil production increases, India aims to minimize import dependency while honoring trade commitments.

India's lentil production has been steadily increasing in recent years.

Despite increased domestic production, India still relies heavily on lentil imports, primarily from Canada and Australia.

"As domestic production of lentils rises, the aim is to minimize dependency on imports, and proposed policy adjustments will focus on balancing domestic interests with trade commitments," said the second person.

Queries emailed on 25 February to spokespersons of the ministries of commerce, external affairs, and consumer affairs as well as the Embassy of Canada, remained unanswered. A spokesperson for the US Embassy in New Delhi suggested consulting the Indian side regarding the plans.

Rising consumption

According to a consumer affairs ministry statement in the Lok Sabha in July last year, the consumption of lentils was 2.46 MT in FY22 and 2.32 MT in FY23.

In FY24, Indias total lentil imports stood at 1.84 MT, with the US accounting for just 0.01 MT, consumer affairs ministry data showed. With an annual supply shortfall of around one million tonnes, India is expected to increasingly rely on imports from Australia and the US.

Canada has been the top supplier. Till January of the current financial year (FY25), India had imported 0.96 MT of lentils, including 0.53 MT from Canada, 0.35 MT from Australia, and 0.05 MT from the US. Other countries that shipped lentils to India include Russia and Turkey.

In reply to an emailed query, a spokesperson at the Australian High Commission said, The Australian government is closely monitoring any import duties that may be imposed on lentils."

Also read | Madhya Pradesh to allow industries to build accommodations on mfg unit land: CM

"Should duties be reinstated, under the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), Australian lentils will still be able to utilize the 50% tariff reduction within a quota of 150,000 tonnes per year," the Australian spokesperson said.

"The broader part of this move could be to limit excessive imports to protect local growers and maintain fair prices, as unrestricted lentil imports would hurt domestic farmers by creating a surplus supply and lowering prices," said Prof. Rakesh Arrawatia of the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA).

According to US Department of Agriculture (USDA) data, lentil production in America has increased in the recent past from 184,000 tonnes in 2022 (crop year) to 188,000 tonnes in 2023, and further to 319,000 tonnes in 2024, marking a 73% increase from the previous year.

In July 2021, the government reduced the effective customs duty on masoor dal imports from 10% to zero. Earlier, in June 2020, the import duty on masoor dal had been reduced from 30% to 10%. The zero-duty policy on lentils remains in effect until 31 March this year.

Also read | BIS to set standards for online educational courses to enhance content quality
WASHINGTONPresident Trumps blowup with Volodymyr Zelensky last week might have been sparked by the Ukrainian presidents pursuit of more military aid in an Oval Office meeting, but it also was fueled by personal tensions that date to a phone call between the leaders that sparked Trumps first impeachment.

It is a rift that now threatens to disrupt relations with Kyiv, and open a chasm with western allies. While European leaders tried to patch up relations with calls to both leaders in the past day, a senior White House official said Saturday that it is up to Zelensky to seek amends with the U.S.

So far, he has taken half steps. In a series of tweets on Saturday, Zelensky expressed gratitude to the U.S. and Trump personally for military aid over the years, but he offered no apology for his appearance Friday where he appealed for more aid and argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin couldnt be trusted.

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, long a backer of Zelensky and weapons shipments to Ukraine, posted on X on Saturday that the Ukraine presidents behavior was beyond unacceptable" and that his lectures were wearing thin." In a message to Europeans he wrote, Be my guest to defend Ukraine from Putin."

John Bolton, who served for a year and a half as Trumps national-security adviser in his first term, said that Trumps personal dislike of Zelensky is now having an outsize impact on U.S. foreign policy because if he likes a foreign leader, we have good relations with that country."

If he doesnt like a foreign leader, we dont," he added. Trump likes to admit he doesnt like Zelensky. So theres your equation right there."

How President Trump feels about a foreign leader affects U.S. relations with that country, says John Bolton who served as Trumps national-security adviser during the presidents first term.

The Oval Office meeting Friday was meant to precede the signing of a business deal that would bring Trump and Zelensky closer. Kyiv was preparing to cede to Washington rights to develop rare earth minerals and metals in Ukraine that are vital to the U.S. defense and technology industry.

But the high-finance display of unity descended into an on-camera agony of low blows. Trump and Vice President JD Vance indicted Zelenskys handling of the war and failure to show enough gratitude. The signing ceremony was canceled and Zelensky was asked to leave the White House.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio faulted Zelensky on Sunday in an interview on ABC for disrupting the planned signing by taking every opportunity to try to Ukraine-splain on every issue." Rubio has previously noted that White House officials had likewise been annoyed at Zelensky for continually pressing for more weaponry even as the U.S. was providing billions in aid.

John Herbst, who served as U.S. ambassador to Ukraine under George W. Bush and is now a senior director at the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C., said that Zelensky clearly irritated Trump during the Oval Office meeting by repeatedly criticizing Putin and pressing Trump for U.S. security guarantees in front of the live television cameras.

Zelensky could have handled himself better" by bringing those matters up in a private meeting after the Oval Office meeting, Herbst said. Ukraine has a genuine need for security guarantees, Herbst said, but the meeting Friday was, like other interactions between the leaders, overshadowed by their troubled past relations.

History is relevant because Trump remembers stuff," said Herbst. He remembers slights. He also remembers favors."

Trump has long harbored suspicions of Ukraines political establishment. He has promoted an unsubstantiated theory that the Democratic National Committee was hacked in 2016 not by Russia but by a server located in Ukraine, a theory also spread by Moscow.

Trumps early dealings with Zelensky, meanwhile, only buttressed his belief the Ukrainian president was also aligned against him personally. After Zelensky was elected president of Ukraine in 2019, Trump began pressing the new Ukrainian leader to declare an investigation into his Democratic rivals there.

In Trumps first lengthy phone call with Zelensky, he pressed the Ukrainian president for an investigation into Hunter Biden, the son of Joe Bidenan expected political rival in the 2020 presidential election. The call led to Trumps first impeachment, and may have contributed to his defeat in the 2020 election.

Trump denied any wrongdoing, and defended his phone conversation with Zelensky as perfect." Bolton, his national-security adviser at the time, said that Trump has never forgiven Zelensky for the consequences of the so-called perfect conversation."

Zelensky kept his distance from Trump after he left office, but he made contact again during the presidential campaign last year and quickly committed a faux pas. Republicans criticized him for appearing with Pennsylvanias Democratic governor at a factory in the state that made shells for Ukraine, a visit that GOP officials said was partisan.

Zelensky also drew GOP criticism for calling now-Vice President Vance too radical" and telling the New Yorker magazine that Trump doesnt really know how to stop the war even if he might think he knows how."

Zelensky visited Trump in New York at Trump Tower and afterward they sparred gently in a joint appearance on Fox News. Trump repeated that he thought he could end the war quickly while Zelensky made it clear that Russian troops needed to be pushed out of Ukraine.

But beneath the niceties, Herbst said, there was always underlying tension between the two, both of whom have a history of losing their temper in public and ramping up rhetoric against each other.

Herbst noted that Putin, whom Trump has spoken with several times since he became president, has handled the U.S. president deftly by not responding to his fits of cantanker.

After his inauguration in January, Trump posted on his Truth Social that Putin needed to end the war quickly or face the wrath of U.S. sanctions. We can do it the easy way or the hard way," he wrote. While Putins aides fulminated against Trump for his disrespect, Putin himself said nothing and let the matter pass, Herbst said.

When Trump opened up talks with Russians last month in Riyadh, Zelensky signaled he was unhappy about not being invited. Hours later Trump said he was disappointed" by Ukraines reaction and appeared to blame Kyiv for starting the war. The next day Zelensky said that Trump was caught in a Russian disinformation space." Hours after that Trump called Zelensky a dictator" who has done a terrible job."

The sparring escalated in a similar way during the Oval Office meeting Friday. Zelensky looked tense through a half-hour of generally polite conversation as Trump said he had a good relationship with Putin and trusted that he could make a peace deal with him.

But Zelensky said repeatedly that Putin couldnt be trusted and that Ukraine needed military backing from the U.S. for any peace deal to hold. After he said that Putin violated ceasefire agreements with Ukraine during Trumps last presidency, Vance said Zelensky was being disrespectful and ungrateful to argue with Trump in front of the media in the Oval Office.

Vance also brought up Zelenskys visit to the plant in Pennsylvania, accusing him of campaigning there for Democrats, and Trump joined his vice president in accusing Zelensky of being ungrateful.

Trump then said that Putin respected him and that the two of them bonded in part because they had together fought off false allegations from Democrats that they had colluded to rig the 2016 elections.

Special counsel Robert Mueller concluded that there was no collusion, although the U.S. intelligence community did say that Russia tried to influence the vote to favor Trump.

Trump suggested that their common trial-by-fire, litigated by Democrats, made him closer to the Russian president than he could be with Zelensky.

Let me tell you, Putin went through a hell of a lot with me," Trump said, raising his voice at a reporter who asked a final question during Fridays tense meeting with Zelensky. He went through a phony witch hunt where they used him and Russia, Russia, Russia."

It was a Democrat scam," he said. And he had to go through that."

Write to Alan Cullison at alan.cullison@wsj.com
New Delhi: The government is exploring urgent legislative changes to ensure swift approvals from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) for the sale of distressed assets after a Supreme Court (SC) order cast a cloud over bankruptcy rescues, two people informed of the development said. The apex court had mandated a 'non-negotiable' prior CCI nod for resolution plans containing an acquisition or merger, as well as full-fledged investigations into deals posing competition concerns.

The move to quickly undertake legislative measures comes after the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmaker Bhartruhari Mahtab, sought clarity from the ministry of corporate affairs and the CCI, about how the regulator plans to implement the SC ruling, which could come in the way of timely approval of investments into bankrupt businesses, the persons said on the condition of anonymity.

The government is holding consultations with the stakeholders on how best to address this. Appropriate measures will be decided quickly," said one of the two persons cited above. The measures could include changes to the Competition Act and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), but the final call will be taken after the consultations, said the person.

Also read | Frivolous appeals hold up CCI penalties. Stricter rules may make that tougher

The apex court on 29 January set aside the debt resolution of Hindustan National Glass and Industries Ltd, a market leader in glass packaging, by its sale to AGI Greenpac Ltd, another leading packaging products company, the successful bidder. AGI Greenpac in this case secured CCI approval in March 2023, subject to modifications to the transaction, that is, the target company selling one of its seven plants. But that was after the distressed business committee of creditors (CoC) had already approved its resolution plan.

A three-judge bench of the apex court, by a 2:1 majority, held the debt resolution plan as unsustainable as it failed to secure prior approval from the CCI." The court also said that an investigation into the transactions potential impact on competition was warranted by CCIs Director General, the order showed.

The Supreme Court's judgement overruled a 2023 order of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal that had said that while CCI approval was mandatory under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, it was not necessary to obtain it before the distressed business creditors voted on the resolution plan.

Queries emailed to the ministry of corporate affairs and to CCI on 26 February seeking comments for the story remained unanswered till press time.

Also read | CCI to move Supreme Court to break logjam in Amazon, Flipkart anti-trust case

The first person cited above said that full-fledged investigations into mergers and acquisitions are not necessarily held by CCI in every case, and that where modifications to the transactionfor example, divestment or exclusion of certain assets from the purview of the deal--helps to address competition-related concerns, the regulator clears the deal subject to such remedies. One of the legislative proposals before the government is to make CCIs discretion in going in for full-fledged investigations more explicit in the law.

CCI had last August cleared the merger between Disney Star, the local unit of The Walt Disney Company, and Reliance Industries-controlled Viacom18, subject to certain voluntary modifications to the deal.

Going in for full-fledged investigation by the Director General in every case with competition concerns would prolong the process and delay the rescue of companies in distress, the person said.

The Supreme Courts (majority) ruling mandating CCI approval before the distressed companys committee of creditors can consider any resolution plan has caused significant anxiety within India's insolvency resolution landscape, said Ravi Gangal, senior associate at Axiom5 Law Chambers.

Also read | CCI weighs probe against quick commerce firms after complaints by traders' body

This is likely to create a new bottleneck, Gangal said. Firstly, the CCI has never blocked a deal. However, its review on some occasions has been time-consuming - which is expected of a regulator ensuring market competitiveness and consumer protection. Therefore, the Supreme Court should have focused on the risk of CCI timeline delays exacerbating corporate insolvency resolution delays."

The government is keen to align CCIs approval process and the bankruptcy code to ensure that corporate rescue is not hampered by over-regulation. Finance and corporate affairs minister Nirmala Sitharaman had in her 1 February budget speech said reforms will ensure a light-touch regulatory framework.

The Supreme Court ruling places an administrative burden on the CCI, which will now handle multiple simultaneous applications which will considerably enhance its administrative burden," said Gangal. The requirement for CCI approval prior to creditors review of the bids may deter potential bidders or lead to the rejection of otherwise viable bids that cannot secure timely clearance, he said.

Also read | CCI to streamline penalty recovery mechanism to force reluctant defaulters

The dissenting opinion in the ruling could be a more balanced approach. It argues that CCI approval should be a prerequisite for National Company Law Tribunal approval, not committee of creditors consideration. It rightly notes that it is for the NCLT to decide on whether a bid is legally compliant or not. In this way, the timelines under both these regimes run concurrently. In case of any undue delays in the CCI process, the bidder will also have an opportunity to make appropriate representations before the NCLT," said Gangal.

During the previous Lok Sabha, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance, led by BJPs Jayant Sinha, had flagged the delays in debt resolution under the bankruptcy code, its low recovery rates and high number of liquidation cases, while recommending a review of the code.
The deal President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky are expected to sign Friday hinges on a bullish view of Ukraines critical mineral wealth. Both parties have reason to project optimism. But significant questions remain about Ukraines mineral endowments and the economic viability of extracting them.

The deal would establish a reconstruction fund to be capitalized by revenue from the sale of Ukraines government-owned" natural resource assets, including, but not limited to, deposits of minerals, hydrocarbons, oil, natural gas, and other extractable materials, infrastructure, ports, and state-owned enterprises."

The U.S. is attempting to diversify U.S. mineral supply chains away from China. Recent discussions of Ukraines mineral wealth have focused on lithium, graphite and manganese, which are key for green energy and electric vehicles, as well as uranium, titanium, tungsten, and rare earths. So how vast are Ukraines resources of these prized materials? The answer depends on whom you ask and some arcane but important mining industry terminology.

Those proven resources arent exceptionally vast, suggest the United States Geological Surveys Mineral Commodity Summaries," considered an authoritative source. In 2024, Ukraines share of global production of these minerals didnt eclipse 1%. For reserves, only titanium and uranium, and potentially graphite, are significant but still small. Of course, it isnt surprising that Ukraines mining sector may have contracted due to the recent violence. Russia annexed Crimea and began a proxy occupation of Ukraines eastern territories in 2013, and launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Prewar (2013) production levels for manganese, titanium, and uranium were globally consequential but modest, as were reserves with the exception of manganese. In 2013, Ukraines manganese reserves were second only to those of South Africa.

Some academic studies suggest Ukraines mineral resources are potentially much vaster. A 2022 study by geologists associated with the Institute of Geology at the Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv suggests the country has large deposits of these minerals, plus tantalum and others. An infographic published by the Kyiv School of Economics indicates Ukraine has deposits of 20 of the 50 resources the European Union has identified as critical raw materials.

But these studies need to be contextualized in the parlance of the mining industry. Deposits" are simply concentrations of particular minerals that have been identified or inferred from geological markers. Resources" are those deposits that have been identified and are potentially extractable. Reserves" are the subset of resources that are economically viable given current technology and market prices. Deposits and resources are typically so vast and widely distributed that the USGS doesnt bother reporting anything but global estimates.

Announcements of newly discovered reserveslike Indias potentially massive lithium bounty announced in 2023tend to make headlines. But bringing those reserves into actual, economically viable production is often complicated by a host of factors including the nature of the deposits, the price environment, availability of finance, and the political risk associated with operating a mine in a particular place.

Prices for energy transition minerals have rebounded somewhat recently, but they remain 25% below the high prices of 2022 that spurred so much interest in the sector, according to International Monetary Fund data. There are actual functioning mines in safe, Western operating environments that are currently in care and maintenance, meaning production has been paused but the facility is being maintained in operational shape if and when prices rebound. If Western miners cant profitably operate in Western Australia because of the current price environment, it is hard to see how start-up mines in Ukrainewhich has seen its infrastructure massively degraded and buzzy topic in both industrial and national security circles, so targeting them allows Trump to claim a victory in the path toward diversifying U.S. critical mineral supplies away from China.

For Zelensky, casting the potential bevy of subsoil resourcesa form of collateral that is virtually impossible for Russia to destroy or significantly degradein the most positive light possible is in Ukraines interest. The cost of conceding essentially an upside option on developing uncertain mineral resources sacrifices no currently expected government revenue.

Ukraines potential mineral wealth makes for compelling headlines, but turning deposits into dollars for the people of Ukraineor the U.S. government and U.S. firmswill follow a long, uncertain path. For both Trump and Zelensky, the narrative is politically convenient. The reality may be far less lucrative.

Guest commentaries like this one are written by authors outside the Barrons newsroom. They reflect the perspective and opinions of the authors. Submit feedback and commentary pitches to ideas@barrons.com.



About the author: Cullen Hendrix is senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and fellow at the Payne Institute for Public Policy at the Colorado School of Mines.
Schaeffler India Ltd stocks muted reaction to its quarter and year-ending December results is understandable even though financials were decent.

The stock remains richly valued at close to 50 times the CY24 price-to-earnings (P/E) multiple despite a nearly 40% correction from the peak of 4,951 on 18 June. At its peak, the stocks P/E was almost 80 times. However, even at such a high P/E, mutual fund managers, the supposedly more knowledgeable investors, did not think of exiting as their total shareholding was largely steady at about 14% between March 2024 and December 2024.

Notably, Schaefflers sales and Ebitda have shown a linear growth over the past three years, with 13% and 14% CAGR in revenue and Ebitda, respectively. The Street might have aggressively discounted the fact that it has a German parent with a technological edge that should help in making inroads into the electric vehicle market with products such as electric axles.

Revenue increased 12% year-on-year in CY24, while net profit growth moderated at 7% to 978 crore. This was due to a sharp 23% rise in depreciation which began as new assets were put into use. Schaefflers capex has been about 500 crore each year over the past four years.

The management highlighted in the earnings call that the capex intensity is likely to be lower in CY25, with focus shifting towards efficient utilization of the existing capex. It has already constructed buildings at various plant locations, which will be used to add new machinery based on demand conditions. Thus, the annual capex could drop 10-20% versus the last four years average.

Also Read: Nightmare on D-Street: Navigating a crisis, falling knives, and an unusual calm

In CY24, bearings and industrial solutions (BIS) and automotive technologies (AT) segments formed 44% and 34% of total sales, respectively. Within BIS, Schaeffler derives almost 40-50% revenue from two-wheelers and off-road vehicles such as tractors. Exports are still small at 13% of total revenue with 60% of those going to Europe.

Despite the auto industrys erratic trends, the AT segment clocked 12% growth in CY24, aided by new customer wins in passenger vehicles for planetary gear shafts and clutches for commercial vehicles. There is scope for upside surprise in the AT segment if the auto sector growth revives with easing monetary policy.

Schaeffler remains debt-free. Its dividend payout ratio stood at 45% for two consecutive years. Still, the current valuation discounts most of the positives. Unless there is a significant increase in sales and Ebitda growth rate from the current level of 10-15%, further P/E expansion appears tough.



Also Read: CIE Automotive banks on India as Europe business falters
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On February 28, Dongfeng Nissan's Venucia brand officially released the new V-Online DD-i Orca edition onto the market. The model is available in three variants, with limited-time introductory prices ranging from 125,900 yuan to 145,900 yuan. After additional discounts, the starting price is set at 99,900 yuan.

Photo credit: Dongfeng Nissan

As a mid-cycle facelift, the new V-Online DD-i Orca has undergone updates in design, configuration, and driving range.

In terms of appearance, the model adopts Venucia's latest design language, giving it a sportier and more dynamic look. The 2025 V-Online DD-i measures 4,620 mm in length, 1,917 mm in width, and 1,629 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. Compared to the 2023 version, the new model is 13 mm longer and 5 mm taller.

As for smart features, the vehicle is equipped with an NFS keyless smart start, the upgraded Lighthouse OS 2.0 infotainment system, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset, and an advanced voice interaction system. Venucia has also integrated DeepSeek AI into Lighthouse OS 2.0 to enhance the user experience through deep-learning capabilities.

Photo credit: Dongfeng Nissan

Under the hood, the model features the Venucia IHS 2.0 intelligent hybrid system, a single-speed direct-drive system, a 1.5T turbocharged engine, and a multi-link rear suspension. The engine delivers a maximum power output of 123 kW and a peak torque of 230 Nm, addressing common issues of traditional plug-in hybrids, such as weak acceleration at low battery levels and unstable high-speed performance.

The new V-Online DD-i Orca offers a 150 km battery-powered range and a combined driving range of 1,172 km, with a fuel consumption of just 0.7L per 100 km, prioritizing electric driving while ensuring fuel efficiency.
The benchmark NSE Nifty 50 index has experienced a significant correction of nearly 15% from its peak in September 2024, making investors anxious.

But the stock market is a place where volatility and opportunity go hand-in-hand. Investors are increasingly seeking refuge in companies that balance growth with financial prudence.

Enter debt-free mid cap stocks.

These are a unique class of companies that have the nimbleness of small enterprises with the stability that comes from having no debt.

Also read: Five stocks that can help you retire early

For investors eyeing the sweet spot between risk and reward, these companies not only promise explosive growth potential but also peace of mind.

In this article, we unveil five such companies across diverse sectors.

#1 Polycab India

Polycab India is a leading Indian electrical company that manufactures wires and cables, and sells consumer electrical goods.

It is the largest manufacturer of wires and cables in India, with a 25-26% share of the organised market.

It offers a varied range of wires and cables for retail and industrial use, catering to diverse industries. It is also one of the largest exporters of cables in India.

The company delivered solid top-line growth of 27% compounded annually over three years and a net-profit compound annual growth rate of 25%.

The company has not compromised on its balance sheets health. Total debt is at a comfortable 110.2 crore, and it has cash equivalents of 343.4 crore, making it a net debt-free company.

Looking ahead, Polycab expects to grow more than 1.5 times faster than the market.

It has achieved its initial goal of 20,000 crore of revenue by FY26 ahead of schedule.

Polycab's engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) business has a robust order book, valued at 4,800 crore as of December, which is to be executed over the next two to three years. It expects a similar quarterly run rate in the EPC business over the next two years as it executes its order book.

The company is transitioning to a vertical-focused structure to capitalise on growth opportunities across different sectors.

It aims for revenue expansion across all fast-moving electrical goods (FMEG) product categories through product enhancements and influencer management programmes.

Also read: Indias travel rush has a clear winnerand its not airlines

The long-term earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (Ebitda) margin guidance for the cables & wires business remains steady at 11-13%.

However, the company has been operating at a better scale and realising margins around 14%.

Polycab expects the FMEG business to become profitable, which would add to its overall profitability.

It plans capex of 6,000-8,000 crore over the next five years. Looking at the size of the capex, the company may use some debt to fund it.

Recently, Aditya Birla Group (ABG) announced its entry into the cables & wires sector, which is expected to intensify competition for existing players. ABG will make a 1,800 crore investment in the cables & wires sector over two years. UltraTech Cement, its flagship company, will establish a manufacturing plant near Bharuch in Gujarat, with production expected to commence by December 2026.

In the long term, this news is definitely negative but the medium-term impact will be negligible, considering Polycab currently holds a significant position in the cables & wires market. However, the market has punished the stock and it has fallen drastically on this news.

#2 Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders is a premier Indian shipyard that primarily builds and repairs ships, submarines and various other types of vessels, and provides related engineering products to its clients.

It serves both national and international clients, mainly catering the Indian defence services, specifically the navy and coast guard.

The stock has delivered a solid top-line growth of 33% CAGR over three years and a net-profit CAGR of 47% over the same period.

The return on equity (ROE) over the past three years has been 27%.

The company is net debt-free despite having long working-capital cycles.

Looking ahead, deliveries from the current order book are expected by the end of 2026, with activities continuing for about 1.5 to 2 years after delivery.

The existing order book is expected to be executed by the end of FY26 or FY27, barring 20% for spares and warranties.

The company is poised for significant growth and development as it is reviving the offshore vertical to provide an additional stream of revenue.

Future growth will depend on when large value orders materialise, such as additional submarines. It is bidding for eight next-generation Corvettes.

The company is exploring the establishment of a greenfield shipyard at Nhava Yard to enhance shipbuilding and repair capabilities. It expects to spend 4,000-5,000 crore to augment infrastructure.

While the companys ambitious growth plans paint a promising picture for the future, its performance over the past year suggests markets recognise this potential.

#3 Persistent Systems

Persistent Systems specialises in digital engineering and enterprise modernisation. In simple terms, it helps other businesses improve and update their technology and digital systems. It serves various industries, including healthcare, financial services, technology, and manufacturing.

Persistent operates with a financial strategy that supports growth without relying heavily on debt. It meets its funding requirements through a mix of equity, internal fund generation, and borrowings, ensuring that funds raised via term loans are used for their intended purposes and short-term funds are not used for long-term investments.

The stock has delivered a good top-line growth of 33% CAGR over three years and a net-profit CAGR of 36% over the same period.

The return on equity (ROE) over the past three years has been 24%.

The markets have handsomely rewarded this performance.

Also read | Breaking up to grow: Vedantas demerger and its impact on investors

Management has expressed confidence in its growth trajectory and has set ambitious goals. The company aims to achieve 200 crore in annual revenue by the end of FY27 and 500 crore by FY31.

It plans to achieve this through several strategic initiatives, including categorising core verticals into sub-verticals with focused scaling plans, doubling down on the top 100 customers which contribute about 80% of revenues, and enhancing focus on global capability centers.

A key component of its strategy involves infusing AI into every aspect of its vertical and service line offerings and leading with the platformisation of services.

Persistent is also focused on transitioning towards platform-driven services and shifting the business model to outcome-based engagements, leveraging both proprietary IP and IP built in collaboration with hyperscalers and other ecosystem partners.

#4 ICICI Lombard General Insurance Company

ICICI Lombard General Insurance is a general insurance provider that offers a range of products including motor, health, commercial lines, and crop insurance. It has emerged as the top motor insurance provider in India.

The stock has delivered top-line growth of 19% CAGR over three years and a net-profit CAGR of 9% over the same period. The return on equity (ROE) has been 17% over the past three years.

The company is net debt-free. General insurance companies typically dont need debt due to upfront premium collections, investment income from the float, and low capital expenditure.

Its strong cash flow, regulatory reserves, and risk-averse nature allow it to operate sustainably without relying on borrowed funds.

Despite being a stable business, the stock price has been anything but stable over the past year.

Looking ahead, management has said the company is poised to keep pace with the industry, with sustained growth and consistent profitability. A key strategy involves leveraging a multi-product, multi-distribution approach, alongside effective data utilisation, digital advancements, and new product launches.

ICICI Lombard aims for profitable growth within preferred segments and is seeking opportunities across various motor insurance categories. Expense management remains a priority. It expects the overall motor combined ratio to range from 65% to 67%, and anticipates a more sensible pricing environment in commercial lines.

Continued investments are planned for the retail health segment, alongside a focus on digital advancements, risk selection, and data analytics. The company aims to maintain an above-industry solvency ratio.

#5 HDFC Asset Management Company

HDFC Asset Management Company provides asset management services, acting as the investment manager for HDFC Mutual Fund and HDFC AMC AIF-II. It also offers portfolio management and advisory services to clients.

The company provides a range of savings and investment products, including mutual funds (both actively managed and passive options), portfolio management services, and alternative investment opportunities.

The stock has delivered top-line growth of 19% CAGR three years period and a net-profit CAGR of 9% over the same period. The return on equity (ROE) has been 17% over the past three years.

The stock has mimicked the capital-market sentiment over the past year. Heres how the stock has performed in that time.

Also read | Small-cap crash: 20-stock portfolio strategy

HDFC AMC aims to have leadership in every product. It opened 25 new offices on 2 January 2025, largely beyond the top 30 cities. This is in addition to 24 new offices set up a year prior.

It is awaiting the final set of regulations for new asset classes and is working on creating the right set of products to gain share in this space.

The company is deepening its engagement with HDFC Bank and its subsidiaries and sees tremendous potential for collaboration.

Conclusion

In an economy where debt-laden balance sheets often crumble under pressure, these five debt-free midcaps offer resilience.

Their debt-free status offers a solid foundation, shielding them from interest-rate shocks and refinancing risks. But lets be clearbeing debt-free isnt enough, and debt-free doesnt mean risk-free.

The key takeaway? A strong balance sheet is just the starting point  execution, innovation and adaptability are what truly drive long-term success.

Happy investing!

Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only. It is not a stock recommendation and should not be treated as such.

This article is syndicated from Equitymaster.com
On 28 February, Sensex and Nifty plummeted nearly 2% due to widespread selling triggered by fears of a global trade war and concerns about a slowing US economy. The market's total capitalization dropped by 8.8 trillion. All 13 major sectoral indices were deep in the red, with the BSE Smallcap and BSE Midcap indices each falling over 2%. IT and financial stocks, where foreign investors hold significant stakes, contributed to half of Nifty 50's losses.

The sharp impact was seen post US President Donald Trump tariff announcement on Mexican and Canadian goods would take effect on 4 March, along with an additional 10% duty on Chinese imports, citing the continued flow of deadly drugs into the US. These new tariffs will be added to the 10% levy imposed on 4 February due to the fentanyl crisis, effectively raising the total duty on Chinese imports to 20%.

Also Read: Nifty down for five months in a row, a first in 29 years

Outlook for Trading

Last week, we mentioned the crucial phase for the market emerging that could lead to some pensive moments for the markets. Hesitation was written all over the place and this led the markets to break crucial supports around 22800 and 22500 as we had mentioned.

Post the RBI Policy and Budget, which was a much talked about event, the industry reaction to the implementation will impact the markets in the coming days. While the indices will be under pressure, every rally that we will see will witness supply, the stock specific action will keep us busy till we gain some clarity. As bearishness is now widespread across all major sectors, we can continue to look for further downside.

The trends have not been able to revive and hence the possibility of continued upward bounce shall remain limited. On Friday, the levels of 22500 were breached as we did not witness any rebound, clearly indicating that the trends were pressured. The market continues to struggle at every recovery, thus indicating that rallies continue to attract some selling pressure.

Overall bias is negative as we negotiate the possibility of how the markets would accept the turnaround of events and decide on the outcome of the various sectors. The Option data also reveals that the max pain point continues to show 22500, which could now act as a resistance for any rally that may emerge in the next week.

As mentioned the prospects of the next series unable to generate any revival has slimmed now we need to move ahead with caution as the bears are in control.

View Full Image TradingView

Also Read: Popular Bank Nifty index might need a recast if Sebi plan takes off

Three stocks to trade, recommended by NeoTraders Raja Venkatraman:

 Cartrade Tech: Buy at 1,530, stop 1,505, target 1,650-1,690

After undergoing some profit booking, prices have slipped into a strong set of supports that are indicating that the trends are looking to head higher once again. With the strong rise seen on Friday some demand is emerging at lower levels. As the trends look encouraging one can consider going long.

 ITD Cementation India: Buy above 540, stop 515, target 580-595

A long body formation seen on the charts has triggered an encouraging response. The MA Bands too are offering a steady demand that is triggering some opportunities for long. As trends have once again flashed a positive sign, one can look to buy.

View Full Image TradingView

 Shankara Building Products: Buy above 555, stop 535 target 595-615

A round pattern seen on the intraday charts beyond the gap region makes it a good candidate for some upside. The momentum has seen some pullback, so we can look to buy for some upside in the days ahead. The positive overhang is forcing us to consider a buy approach for the days ahead. A move above 555 augurs well for the prices. Now, poised at heading higher beyond the cluster highs one can consider going long.

Raja Venkatraman is co-founder, NeoTrader.

Disclaimer: The views and recommendations given in this article are those of individual analysts. These do not represent the views of Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
The Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum in Mumbai has become a backdrop to some interesting juxtapositions. In different corners and rooms, museum objects can be seen interacting with contemporary works by artist Reena Saini Kallat in a solo show, Cartographies of the Unseen , which is on view till 6 April. So, you have Memoria Corona (2006) placed in front of the statues of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. This pristine white sculpture, modelled on the crown of Queen Elizabeth II of England, is inscribed with the names of those who fought in the Indian freedom struggle. The symbol of imperialism can be seen turned on its head as a memorial of sorts for those who sacrificed their lives against colonial rule. Through such works, Saini Kallat questions ideas of colonisation and decolonisation, cartography and colonial frameworks of museology.

The works get activated in this space like no other," says the artist. Take the series of works, Synonym, which are screens holding up images made up of several hundred names of people whove gone missing, forming portraits of migrants and citizens, who are either on the margins or have fallen off the radar. Tasneem Zakaria Mehta (managing trustee and director of the museum) placed these next to the community cabinets on the first floor, which didnt feature a single woman." That erasure or omission comes out in a stark manner when viewed against Saini Kallats Synonym, which features several portraits of women. The context of the various museum objects and the settings lend their own meaning to my works."

As you navigate the show, walking between the various floors, you get to see how Saini Kallat has engaged with themes of borders, fissures and fractions through out her career but in very different ways through works such as Verso Recto, Leaking Lines and Blind Spots. Her engagement with boundaries also has its roots in her personal historyher family had to move to Delhi during Partition. Using the line as a leitmotif and tactility of materialtextile, electric cables, barbed wire the artist creates a poetic body of work in a bid to seek unifying factors amid differences across humanity.

Also read: Himmat Shah (1933-2025): A modernist who engaged with the spirit of the material

In a 2019 interview to Lounge, Saini Kallat had talked about how her choice of material and medium is intuitive. I research and collect material for several years, after which at some point I start deciding on the form that it would take. I have always been very hands on with material. I believe in the transformative ability of the medium itself in conveying ideas. My work is not about putting out research, but as an artist it lies in the act of making and creating shifts in the imagination," she had said.

This is evident in her new video work, Saline Notations (2023-24), on view at the Origins of Mumbai" gallery on the first floor. It is part of the permanent collection of Partition Museum, Delhi, and has been loaned to the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum for this show. During Partition, while Bengal and Punjab were divided, we lost Sindh completely to Pakistan. When you lose land, you dont just lose territory but also the language, culture and traditions tied to it. So, the video work features two frames. In the one on the left, I worked with salt to render the professions and addresses of Hindu residents of Karachi taken from a British-era directorywho left Sindh during Partition," she elaborates.

While their names are obscured in the left frame, the right frame only reveals the names but not the rest of the details. The tide comes in and erases the text. I wanted the work to invite reflections on identity, memory and erasure to show what happens when a community has to start everything from scratch. Salt as a material is used to reflect on ideas of fragility and the transient nature of our individual and collective memories," adds Saini Kallat. The video is accompanied by the sound of her reading the poem Blind Smoke by Arjan Shad" Mirchandani from the anthology Freedom and Fissures: An Anthology of Sindhi Partition Poetry.

Also read: Lines of Flight: Shilpa Gupta examines borders in her first solo in West Asia

View Full Image 'Earth Families'

Saini Kallat has also used the rubber stamp in different works through her practice such as the Color Curtain (2009). An ensuing symbol of bureaucratic processes, the stamp has been used to confirm or erase identitiesto legitimise existence, give state sanction or make invisible those on the margins. In the show, the viewer can see this in Synonym. From afar, it feels like a series of portraits have been propped up on screens. But when you go closer, you start the multitude of names rubber stamped in 14 Indian languages that make up each portrait. Instead of those who have been legitimised, the stamps announce the names of those who have gone missing in India across geographies. Each screen casts a shadowa silhouette that acts as a crowd, with the representation of society as an ocean of humanity, where individu als are often reduced to an anonymous statistic," states the artist.

Some of the works, such as Verso Recto, have not been shown in Mumbai before. Made with tie-and-dye in collaboration with craftspersons from Bhuj, Gujarat, the set of silk scrolls looks at preambles to the constitutions of nations that have been politically partitioned or are in conflict. Here, Saini Kallat has looked at preambles of South Sudan, North and South Korea, Serbia, Croatia, and more. The artist has replaced words that denote common shared values in both preambles such as justice, equality, liberty and fraternity with braille characters rendered as yellow dots, making it illegible to both the sighted and blind people," states the museum note.

In this work, Saini Kallat has continued to spotlight historical amnesia and the fact that we are losing sight of our shared values. Within the museum, it acquires other layers of meaning as it is displayed in the Industrial Arts Gallery on the ground floor. Prince Albert looked at the museum to promote indus trial arts and colonial ideas. Here, the preambles as a promise of democracy suggest reclaiming sovereignty. The anticolonial framework of the work makes for an interesting contrast. Also, the neighbourhood in Mumbai where the museum is situated was home to several mills. So, Verso Recto also alludes to the history of textile mill workers, labour and craft," she explains.

Also read: Planner: 5 events you dont want to miss this week

Another interesting work is the recrea tion of the 2010-work, 2 Degrees, which was part of the River Project at the Camp Belltown Arts Centre in Sydney. Here, Saini Kallat has recreated the work using red earthenware split into two, henna and a single-channel audio loop. The earthenware alludes to the Indus Valley Civilisation, which lies along the river Indus in both Pakistan and India. While nation states can divide territories and partition the riverwith the river even taking on multiple names essentially the water remains the same." says the artist. At the museum, she has also created a wall drawing in henna of a tree that has two halvesstemming from the same roots, with one half growing into a banyan tree and the other half into the deodhar, national trees of India and Pakistan respectively. I referenced the drawing of the banyan tree from the oriental memoirs at the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum. That made this site-specific installation all the more interesting," she adds.

For Saini Kallat, cartographies of existence have always played a crucial role, and she has worked with maps, passports, and thumbprints to draw attention to the inequities of policy and mobility. One recent work in this context is Pattern Recognition, which has been created using the format of the Snellen charts used to test vision. The idea for the work came to her during the covid-19 pandemic as she mulled over travel restrictions, and the wide mobility gap across the world that highlighted the inequities between the global north and south.



In Pattern Recognition, Saini Kallat has created two pyramidical representations featuring maps from different countries. The charts are based on data from Henleys Passport Index, which ranks nations on the strength of their passports. The chart on the left represents data from 2006, while the one on the right reflects statistics from 2023. The maps of countries with visa-free travel to more regions are larger and placed higher on the charts, while countries with more travel restrictions appear below in smaller scale," states the artist note. ...However, the gap between countries with the highest and lowest mobilities remains significant in both charts, suggesting persistent global travel imbalance." The work is emblematic of Saini Kallats ongoing engagement with ideas of inequality and privilege, while looking at new divisions of mobility and access that seem to be afflicting global society today
One could call Tarun Garg an accidental engineer who discovered his passion quite by chance. As a student, he harboured ambitions of pursuing medicine. But when he couldnt clear the entrance exam, he turned his attention towards a degree in mechanical engineering.

Its where he developed an interest in automobiles, even pursuing a project on noise reduction technologies in vehicles as part of his coursework. He knew he had found his calling and after pursuing a Master of Business Administration from the Indian Institute of Management Lucknow, he stepped into the world of automobiles where hes thrived for the last three decades.

What fascinates me the most in a car are simple things like stance, lights and what the broader design signifies - bold, sleek, futuristic or majestic," says New-Delhi based Garg, 55, Whole-time Director and Chief Operating Officer at Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL).

Also read: The trouble with too much empathy at the workplace

HMIL started the year with the launch of the Creta Electric and have been actively investing in infrastructure to cater to the demand of electric vehicles (EV). Studies conducted by them have highlighted an apprehension about driving long distances due to the lack of charging infrastructure on highways.

HMIL aims to set up nearly 600 public EV fast charging stations across the country in the next seven years, of which 72 are already operational. We have also signed an MoU with the government of Tamil Nadu to set up 100 EV charging stations across the state by 2027," he says.

Another major step towards building a sustainable ecosystem and promoting green mobility is HMILs investment in building infrastructure for the Hydrogen Innovation Centre at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras Thaiyur campus in Chennai.

This facility will serve as a key enabler to advance hydrogen as an eco-friendly, emission-less future source of propulsion for mass mobility solutions and a wide range of applications," he says.

Garg talks to Lounge about mentorship and why he prefers an early start to the day.

View Full Image Tarun Garg

Who do you consider your mentor?

I consider my former boss, Jagdish Khattar, as my mentor.

One major insight you worked on with your mentor's guidance?

I learned the importance of taking people along and having a win-win approach. Jagdish Khattar always emphasised on how it helps in the alignment of all members towards a common goal, as well as a strong commitment to ensuring sustainable success. This insight has clearly had a significant impact on my leadership style. I always emphasise the importance of teamwork and collaboration, and ensure that team members are involved in all aspects of the decision-making process.

What does being a mentor mean to you? How do you mentor your colleagues at work?

Being a good mentor means exhibiting empathy, trust, understanding and delegation. I practice an open culture where I am approachable to all colleagues, irrespective of hierarchy. I also believe in a problem-solving approach. I am a person who is willing to listen to my colleagues concerns and provide all the necessary guidance and support to help them move forward. Also, practicing a win-win approach that benefits all stakeholders, business partners and employees brings in an inclusive and sustainable success cherished by all. This can be achieved by having transparent communication, setting clear objectives, providing regular feedback and encouraging innovation.

What are some of the productivity principles you follow that have made your professional and personal life much easier?

The importance of self-discipline and personal excellence are essential for achieving success in any field. I believe in purpose-driven leadership, which means that leaders should be guided by a larger vision and should take people along with them. This helps create a more cohesive and productive team. I have accentuated the importance of empathy and humility in leadership to build trust and respect amongst all team members. I have always followed a proactive approach towards prioritising tasks, practicing effective delegation, maintaining work-life balance and leveraging technology for efficiency. Principles like time management, focusing on high-impact activities and adopting methodologies like agility and tenacity for continuous improvement have helped me immensely in both personal and professional spheres.

Whats your morning schedule like?

Rising early at 4.30am gives me a head start on the day and allows me to avoid the chaos of the morning rush. This ensures that I have a good work-life balance. I go for a walk, energising myself to reach the office early. I also use this time to plan my schedule before my regular day agenda kicks in.

Whats the one positive work routine you have developed during the pandemic?

I have developed a work routine that involves strategic review sessions or a habit of systematically engaging with different departments to stay connected with the pulse of the company. For this, I have an appointment board next to my table where any colleague can block my time transparently. I also firmly believe in staying up to date and scanning the environment.

Any book or podcast you would recommend about mentorship and growth?

Good to Great by Jim Collins is a fundamental read that will help in the pursuit of continuous improvement, challenging the status quo and the journey towards excellence. Another book that I found very useful is Difficult Conversations by Douglas Stone.

How do you unwind? Do you pursue any serious hobbies?

I am an avid reader. While I read at least four newspapers each day, I also make it a point to read one book every month ranging from mythology to world affairs, history or science. I love listening to old Hindi songs and singing them when I am alone.

Also read: Adaptive clothing: How some brands are making fashion fun for the disabled
Its often said that too much humility is pride. In a similar vein, too much empathy could be vanity. We all understand the importance of empathy in professional spheres, but could there be a downside to empathy? While it is important to know your emotional state and that of others, you must avoid situations where you end up making yourself miserable while attempting to make others happy.

The trouble with excessive empathy is that it not only plagues your professional life but also the personal. Take your children, when should you give in to their demands and when should you draw the line? Empathy must be demonstrated within boundaries or it hurts all involved. Containing your emotions in general, and empathy in particular, may be daunting in a personal setting, but relatively straightforward on the professional front. Or so we think.

Many professions are built on this practice of bounded empathy. The airlines industry is instructive in this regard. Lets revisit a familiar scenario. You barely make it to your boarding gate before the 25-minute cut-off. Other travellers behind you arent as lucky. How does the ground staff react? While they are all smiles at other times, their empathy ceases the moment you are late at the departure gate. At this time, the empathy is reserved for those on the other side of the gatethe customers awaiting a timely take-off. It doesnt make business sense to demonstrate empathy to all under all circumstances. Ergo, empathy has boundaries. Unlike airlines where the scope of empathy is explicit, most everyday professional dealings leave a lot to the guesswork. And thats where we have a case for bounded empathy.

Your good senses about others are bound by what you can and should do. If your subordinate is slacking repeatedly and you fail to act, its because of your misplaced sense of empathy. You must limit your emotions to whats good for business (viable) and whats practical (feasible).

In fact, one of the growing criticisms of design thinking is on account of its excessive focus on empathy at the cost of expertise. The claim of the design thinking community is give us any problem and we can solve it by applying our standard processes and tools. But scores of unfinished projects and unkept promises have left practitioners and their clients sober. In an MIT Technology Review article, writer and designer Rebecca Ackermann cites the case of San Francisco Unified School District where the ambitious School Food Advisory (SFA) project took its own shape after numerous interventions from the design consultancy IDEO. She notes, Nearly a decade after IDEO completed its work, the best results have been due to the expertise of the districts own team and its generations of students, not the empathy that went into the initial short-term consulting project." Empathy cant replace expertise and the skills it takes to execute on time and budget.

In most design thinking workshops, the initial excitement around insight clinics, brainstorming sessions, mind maps doesnt amount to much. Thats because empathy is often considered an end in itself. Thats what Marshall Goldsmith warns leaders: The most effective empathic gesture is the empathy of doing  when you go beyond understanding, feeling, and caring and actually take action to make a difference." You must act on your empathy and not just talk about it. Empathy must give way to action, which calls for boundary conditions.

Bounded empathy means you operate between possibilities, yet with a humanness. As author and doctor Paul Kalanithi recollects his encounters with dying patients, he reflects, Openness to human relationality does not mean revealing grand truths from the apse; it means meeting patients where they are, in the narthex or nave, and bringing them as far as you can." And yet they may die and you must move to the next case, with the same zeal. Bounded empathy not only saves you from self-torment, but also shields others from emotional hysteresis.

Pavan Soni is the founder of Inflexion Point, an innovation and strategy consultancy. Hes the author of Design Your Thinking: The Mindsets, Toolsets And Skill Sets for Creative Problem-solving.

Write to us at lounge@livemint.com

Also read: How to stand out and get hired in the AI era
Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency prices jumped after President Donald Trump named them in a post about a crypto strategic reserve.

The price of Bitcoin jumped more than 10% on Sunday, after President Donald Trump said it would be part of a Crypto Strategic Reserve, along with a handful of other digital currencies.

Although he didnt initially mention Bitcoin by name, he did name smaller digital assets whose prices also spiked. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said his executive order on digital assets directed the Presidential Working Group to move forward on a Crypto Strategic Reserve that includes XRP, SOL, and ADA.

In the original post, Trump said I will make sure the U.S. is the Crypto Capital of the World."

Ripples XRP cryptocurrency was up more than 37% at midday on Sunday after the post, at around $2.95, according to prices on CoinDesk. SOL, or Solana, was up 23%, at $173.44, and Cardano, or ADA, was up more than 68%, at just over $1.07.

In a separate post, Trump added the names Bitcoin, the largest digital currency, and Ethereum to the list as the heart of the Reserve."

Bitcoins price went from $85,247.85 at 10:15 a.m. to $92,801.62 at 12:20 a.m., according to CoinDesk.

Ethereums price jumped from $2,204.05 at 10:15 a.m. to $2,475.60 after his post.

Trump once criticized cryptos but embraced the digital currencies during his campaign. During a Bitcoin conference in Nashville last summer, he brought up the idea of a national Bitcoin stockpile.

At that same conference, the idea of a national strategic Bitcoin reserve was introduced. After Trump returned to the White House in January, he signed an executive order instructing the working group to evaluate the formation of such a reserve but he didnt directly mandate the creation of one.
The Centre has engaged its top disaster management agency to carve out an insurance product to mitigate the impact of losses from climate change-related events. The move comes in the backdrop of increasing frequency of such extreme events in the country, with large segments of populations in disaster-prone areas unable to cope.

Two persons aware of the matter said on condition of anonymity that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has constituted a working group called Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR), with the department of financial service as a member, to develop a single-peril parametric insurance product for the Indian market.

A single-peril parametric insurance policy pays out a fixed amount against loss of life or property if a specific event occurs, including cyclones, floods, earthquakes, or even excessive heat, cold or rainfall. The payment is based on the magnitude (parameter) of the event, and not the actual losses.

Also read | Mint Primer: Are we spending enough to fight climate change?

Once the framework for the insurance is finalised, the Centre would ask insurance companies to design products, especially for economically vulnerable groups in disaster-prone areas, the first person cited above said.

This person added that, if necessary, the Centre would subsidise the premium to make it affordable for vulnerable groups in disaster-prone areas. States would also be roped in to financially support launch of such products, which may otherwise become expensive due to high reinsurance costs for the insurers.

The insurance sector supports catastrophic insurance, which requires collaboration between the government, insurers, reinsurers, and regulators," the second person cited above said. While discussions are ongoing, specific solutions like subsidized premiums and specialized insurance businesses are under consideration."

The prime requirement for launching such an insurance product is setting up a catastrophe fund," said an official of General Insurance (GI) Council on condition of anonymity. Though this was provided under regulations earlier, the idea has not taken off due to no support from both government and the insurers. Without it, such products would become prohibitively expensive."

Also read | Economic Survey calls for climate adaptation, cautions against high import reliance for energy transition

Questions sent to the finance ministry and insurance regulator (Irdai) remained unanswered till press time.

A parliamentary standing committee has also recommended insurance cover for extreme weather events, suggesting that India has been ranked third, after the US and China, in recording the highest number of natural disasters since 1900.

The impact of rising instances of climate change-related natural disasters in the country is significant. The Economic Survey of 2025 said Indias GDP stands to fall by 3-10% annually due to extreme weather events, rising sea levels, water insecurity, and disruptions to agriculture.

Industry reactions

The insurance industry has lauded the move. In India, we see at least three to four major natcat (natural catastrophic) events every year," said Arti Mulik, chief technical officer at Universal Sompo General Insurance. These events have adverse effect on large uninsured population."

Mulik said a parametric insurance cover is an apt product to meet the requirements of this needy segment in disaster-prone areas. This product also facilitates easy, hassle-free claim settlement, and provides financial support," she added.

Deepak Madan, vice-president of special lines/commercial lines for large account practices at Prudent Insurance Brokers, said Indias growing vulnerability to natural disasters makes calamity insurance not just essential but a strategic necessity.

Also read | Budget 2025: Money for developing high-yielding, climate-resilient seeds

While coverage for natural catastrophes is widely available, the real challenge lies in sustaining these solutions over time as losses continue to rise," said Madan. The focus must shift towards ensuring long-term viability rather than just accessibility and affordability."

To enhance financial resilience amid climate uncertainties, the insurance industry must develop scalable solutions with robust risk assessments and innovative models that can withstand the pressures of increasing losses," he added.

What else is in the works

Apart from considering new products to insure loss of property in disaster-prone areas, the finance ministry has also asked states to mandate home insurance for home buyers, particularly in disaster-prone areas, through respective RERAs (real estate regulatory authorities).

The standing committee on finance has also suggested the need for a specialized insurance business to be set up by one of the public-sector general insurance companies with subsidized premiums for disaster-prone areas.

Such insurance businesses have been established in many other areas, such as Florida in the US, which is subject to regular hurricane damage.

And read | NHPCs Teesta power station damaged due to landslide

Similarly, the government may need to consider how to provide insurance for projects that have to deal with extreme weather such as glacial lake outbursts. This happened recently to the Teesta III dam in Sikkim. These additional insurance products will require extensive consultation with general insurance companies, reinsurers, and enterprises that are facing such risks, the committee has said in its report submitted in Parliament in December.
Bhagwan har jagah hain, or OYO bhi." Translated into English, God is everywhere, so is OYO." A half-page ad released in a Hindi newspaper by OYO suddenly ignited the internet last week, and #BoycottOYO made it to the top of trending lists. OYO was accused of allegedly hurting religious sentiments. Posts by outraged users and calls for a boycott inundated social media.

As protests escalated, OYO responded that the ad was meant to highlight the companys role in religious tourism rather than offend religious sentiments. We have immense respect for the diverse faiths and beliefs of our country and celebrate India's rich spiritual traditions," OYO said in a statement. It further announced plans to expand its presence by adding 500 hotels across 12 major pilgrimage destinations by the end of 2025.

Also Read | Oravel subsidiary Oyo Hotels and Homes reports decline in revenue in FY24

Controversies have a way of being fuelled by past controversies. As the outrage intensified on social media, some remarks by OYOs founder, Ritesh Agarwal, resurfaced. At some point in the past, Agarwal mentioned that OYOs logo was inspired by Lord Jagannath, with the two Os representing the deitys eyes and the Y symbolising the nose. Critics now found a convenient argument in saying that using religious imagery for commercial purposes is inappropriate. Some religious leaders instantly demanded that OYO redesign its logo!

Methinks OYO got engulfed in a needless controversy. The Bhagwan headline was innocent; it was a clever play on words, yes, and little else. There seems to be no prima facie intent in there to either insult God Almighty or declare its brand OYO as omnipresent or omniscient. As more and more Indians embrace spiritual tourism, all that OYO wanted to say perhaps was that they are dedicated to enhancing this sacred experienceand that is what we wanted to highlight through the advertisement," their statement reiterated. The internet overreacted. And how! But there is no antidote to the mob mentality on social media these days.

Also Read | OYO net profit rises to 166 crore in Q3, EBITDA at 249 crore: Report

Manyavars Kanyadaan" ad featuring Alia Bhatt was criticized for disrespecting Hindu rituals. The ad intended to promote progressive thinking but was seen mocking Hindu traditions. Tanishqs ad depicting an interfaith marriage was met with criticism and accusations of promoting love jihad". Zomatos billboards with the abbreviations MC" and BC" were perceived as offensive too. Volkswagens Dusshera ad featuring actors portraying Ram and Ravan in a light-hearted scene was questioned for the appropriateness of depicting religious figures commercially. Sunny Leones Navratri ad for Manforce condoms also came into the crosshairs of social media.

Why do brands court controversy? Brands sometimes court controversy as a marketing tactic to generate significant buzz and attention, hoping the resulting conversation and strong reactions, even if negative from some, will lead to increased brand awareness, engagement, and ultimately, sales, essentially betting that the potential positive publicity outweighs the risk of backlash from certain demographics. Honestly, in the OYO case, even that doesnt seem to be the intention. It is just a headline trying to be smart. Little else.

Also Read | OYO's Agarwal visits Kumbh, recalls dream to start hotel business in last visit

But that is not to say that OYO has not had its fair share of controversies. Sometimes self-triggered. When it launched, OYO democratised access to private spaces for a burgeoning young population in many ways. That was the companys core value and the primary source of its appeal. However, a couple of months ago, it announced that it would no longer allow unmarried couples to check into its hotels in Meerut and might extend that policy to other towns. Naturally, the policy has set off something of a firestorm.

In the Meerut controversy, OYO scored a hit-wicket. For the type of customer that it largely hosts, OYO has been a chaddar-badlu hotel for one night (or mostly a few hours long) stands for long. No secrets about that. The Meerut announcement may have appeased some socially conservative right-wing groups, but OYOs core customers suddenly ran the risk of alienation. Social media, in part, applauded OYO, but they were not the ones filling up and paying for empty room nights. Will OYO roll out the ban nationally? If it does, the business impact on revenues could be tremendous. Young couples seeking time together are a significant segment for OYO.

Poor chaps OYO: spurning love or seeking God, everything is social dynamite these days!

Dr Sandeep Goyal is chairman of Rediffusion.
Last weeks Trump-Vance-Zelensky train wreck proved that the North Atlantic Treaty Organization is on increasingly shaky ground. Starting with Donald Trumps Feb. 12 phone call with Vladimir Putin about the Ukraine war, things got worse when Mr. Trump called Volodymyr Zelensky a dictator" and the wars instigator. Vice President JD Vances neocon-like complaints that Western Europeans were insufficiently democratic, without comparable analysis of Russia, eased Mr. Putin away from diplomatic purdah. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths plan to consider massive cuts in defense spending foreshadows even worse consequences. The Oval Office grudge match finished the picture, and all now points to trashing historys most successful politico-military alliance. Mr. Trump hasnt formally withdrawn from NATO, but he is so gravely weakening it that leaving would simply be the final insult.

NATO isnt Americas only alliance in jeopardy. In his first term, Mr. Trumps assault on NATO arrived alongside his criticism of other allies, albeit not as publicly as today. The Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network, the Australia-U.K.-U.S. consortium to build nuclear-powered submarines for Australia, and the export-control rules designed to keep rogue states from acquiring weapons of mass destructionare all at risk. Even bilateral ties with Japan and South Korea are in question. Taiwan should be very worried.

Israel may escape for now, but Israelis should recall Martin Niemollers poem, which concludes: Then they came for meand there was no one left to speak for me."

Two complementary political counterattacks are neededto save Ukraine from Russia and to salvage NATO. Although the evidence is tenuous, there may still be enough alliance supporters among Mr. Trumps advisers to change course. If so, they must advise the president on what he should be doing, not just responding yes, sir" to his ill-informed statements.

Ive been through this myself, as have others, and can attest it will be unpleasant for those showing loyalty to our country and its Constitution. But at some point, principles must rise above job security and ambition. Resignation becomes the only honorable course. Each adviser will have to make his own decision. But they need to start making them.

House and Senate Republicans must also stand up against dismantling our alliances and gutting the defense budget. Some lawmakers are asserting themselves on Ukraine and NATO, and more must follow. They will find allies among Democrats, and together they could constitute majorities in both chambers. Vocal congressional support for bolstering our alliances and substantially increasing defense spending is important in its own rightand for the reassurance it will give like-minded Trump administration officials. There is no argument more powerful to Mr. Trump than his own political well-being.

Alliance supporters should also persuade Mr. Trump to focus on his well-known disdain for the European Union, thereby easing the assault on NATO. Mr. Trumps distaste for the EU reflects European weakness and inadequate defense spending, as well as his criticism of trade terms negotiated by previous U.S. administrations. Some of that dissatisfaction is justified but not enough to dismantle broader American security interests.

Here, Europeans must reject EU dogmatism, especially espoused by France, which insisted, even before the EUs creation, on Europes separateness from America. Long reflected in calls for a European pillar" within NATO, this groupthink has corroded the alliances cohesion. Ironically, and potentially fatally, if Frances EU ideology prevails and the EU tries to substitute itself for NATO, that would provide support for Mr. Trumps view that America should withdraw. Not all of Europe suffers from this kind of thinking. Much of Donald Rumsfelds new Europe" in the east and some old Europeans," like the U.K. and Nordic NATO members, have always emphasized Atlanticism. It is old Europeans" such as France and Germany that are the main problem.

Europes first reaction to Mr. Trumps fusillade, predictably led by French President Emmanuel Macron, was to assume Washington was irretrievably departing. Instead, to protect the Wests overall security and shared concerns about rising global threats, NATO advocates on both sides of the Atlantic must resist the misimpression that Mr. Trumps position is enduring. Whether Europeans can stand alone against the China-Russia axis, the real overarching menace, is doubtful. Europeans should prize being part of the West more highly than being part of the EU, and act on that basis. Unfortunately, incoming German Chancellor Friedrich Merz moved immediately in the wrong direction, saying he would seek independence" from the U.S. Saying that the free world needs a new leader," as EU official Kaja Kallas did, also doesnt help.

Mr. Trump never appreciated Winston Churchills insight that there is only one thing worse than fighting with allies, and that is fighting without them." Accordingly, advancing U.S. national-security interests under Mr. Trump, and saving our admittedly imperfect alliances, requires enduring before prevailing. One answer is to outlast him, distract him and find him other targets. But the most important course is to tell the truth to the American people, starting now.

Mr. Bolton served as White House national security adviser, 2018-19, and ambassador to the U.N., 2005-06. He is author of The Room Where It Happened: A White House Memoir."
When millions of Indians cannot afford a 10 packet of Parle-G biscuits, how do we expect them to spend 100 a month on a 4G SIM card to access their own money? Financial inclusion should mean ease of access . But for many, it has become an uphill battle.

Bank accounts being suddenly frozen due to KYC issues is a growing crisis across India, leaving millions locked out of their savings. While customers blame banks and banks blame regulations, the real issue runs much deeper.

Banks are bound by regulations, including the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), which requires them to track suspicious transactions. They must file suspicious transaction reports when red flags arise.

Also Read: KYC exists to prevent fraud and not to make people miserable

These indicators may be either probabilistic, such as high transaction volumes, or deterministic, involving a law-enforcement notice, for example. However, the rules do not let banks disclose this to their customers.

Every KYC verification comes at a cost. Banks do not just bear routine expenses. They also bear the financial and operational burden of compliance. When the cost of maintaining an account outweighs its value, banks face difficult choices. Rural branches are hit the hardest. They operate on thin margins and are usually understaffed. Yet, they handle a disproportionate number of direct benefit transfer (DBT) accounts.

When the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandates mass re-KYC under the PMLA, these branches struggle with backlogs that take months to clear. Customers, frustrated by frozen accounts, direct their anger at banks, often unaware that the latter have no choice.

The rise of fintech and digital banking has also made India a playground for scammers. Reports suggest that money mule networksfor which individuals rent out their bank accounts to fraudstershave proliferated with the ease of UPI transactions. Automated API-driven laundering operations move stolen money at lightning speed.

Banks are caught in the middle. When they are pressured by law-enforcement agencies to freeze accounts, their frontline employees often face verbal abuse or physical threats. Yet, the perception is that banks harass customers, even though they are only acting as required by the regulatory regime.

DBT mechanisms were introduced to curb corruption in welfare distribution. In 2007, Montek Singh Ahluwalia estimated that only 50% of welfare funds reached the poor. Recent field studies by Jean Dreze indicate that things have worsened in 2025, with 69% of DBT-linked bank accounts frozen on account of KYC issues. If beneficiaries cannot access their money, financial inclusion becomes meaningless. This is only slightly different from corruption in in-kind welfare schemes. Yet, it is neither tracked nor acknowledged as a systemic failure.

If PMLA-driven KYC norms remain unchanged, then India must rethink its DBT mechanisms. One solution is to have a specialized banking arrangement for welfare payments, separate from commercial banks. India Post Payments Bank could take on this role, given its wide physical presence in rural India.

Also Read: Bringing GST under PMLA could lead to tax terrorism

Dedicated DBT bank accounts could process welfare payments. These must not be frozen so long as their holders are alive and could operate with Union government budgetary support rather than relying on commercial viability. Such a shift would reduce the KYC burden on regular banks and let them focus on core financial services.

Dedicated DBT accounts would function differently from regular accounts. Account opening would be automatic, linked to Aadhaar identification and welfare eligibility, and wouldnt need to meet the demands of traditional bank protocols. Transactions would be limited to government-to-person transfers, preventing third-party fund movements and eliminating the risk of money mules exploiting these accounts.

Unlike accounts at commercial banks that must be monitored for suspicious activity, DBT-only accounts would need to be watched only for disbursal efficiency.

Such a system exists in other countries. Brazils Caixa Economica Federal operates a dedicated welfare-payment system to ensure that benefits reach recipients without banking-bureaucracy delays. India can take a similar approach by expanding India Post Payments Bank into an entity dedicated to welfare transfers.

India also needs policy reforms to shield financial inclusion from financial regulation. Current KYC rules treat every account the same, whether it belongs to a business, an individual investor or a rural pensioner receiving government benefits. This one-size-fits-all approach is flawed. Moreover, freezing an account should be a last resort, not a default response to missing data.

Also, RBI and government agencies must coordinate better. Banks cannot be expected to enforce KYC rules while simultaneously ensuring seamless DBT disbursals. A centralized KYC database for DBT beneficiaries managed by a government body, rather than individual banks, would ease much of the compliance burden borne by banks and allow welfare payments to flow smoothly without compromising security.

Banks are not the villains in Indias KYC crisis. They are bearing the financial, operational and reputational costs of compliance while being pressured by regulators and suffering the ire of customers. If financial inclusion is a priority, the system must evolve. Otherwise, Indias most vulnerable will pay the price for a crisis they did not create.

The authors are, respectively, a corporate advisor and independent director on boards; and co-founder, DeepStrat.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (Geely Automobile) reported total sales of 204,910 vehicles in February 2025, marking an 84% year-on-year spike, according to the company's announcement on March 1. This also marks the sixth consecutive month for the automaker to achieve sales surpassing 200,000 units.

ZEEKR 007 GT; photo credit: ZEEKR

Among them, new energy vehicle (NEV) sales reached 98,433 units, up approximately 194% year on year, accounting for over 48% of Geely Automobile's total sales.

By brands, the Geely brand recorded monthly sales of 173,633 units in February, indicating a year-on-year surge of over 91%. Within this, the Galaxy NEV series achieved sales of 76,132 units, representing a 288% soar from a year ago.

Lynk & Co sold 17,238 vehicles in February, posting a year-on-year growth of over 30%, with NEVs accounting for about 48% of the brand's total monthly sales. Additionally, Lynk & Co announced that the Lynk & Co 900, the first mass-produced vehicle equipped with NVIDIA's Thor chipset, is set to hit the market in the second quarter of this year.

ZEEKR, Geely's premium NEV brand, delivered 14,039 vehicles in February, reflecting an 18% month-on-month growth and an 87% surge from a year ago. The brand also recently debuted its new model, the ZEEKR 007 GT.

On the global market front, Geely Automobile exported 24,920 vehicles in February. The company continues to expand its global presence, with the official establishment of its Philippine subsidiary and localized operations. Meanwhile, ZEEKR has entered the Egyptian market, launching the ZEEKR 001 and ZEEKR X, while the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P has officially arrived in Europe.
Bluntly speaking, power is defined as the ability to bend others to ones will. The limits of Americas are being tested, as evident in Fridays showdown at the White House between Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump (along with Vice-President J.D. Vance).

It was a global spectacle.

The war-ravaged countrys leader sought a US security backstop to fend off a future Russian invasion, in lieu of a mineral-sharing deal with its most powerful backer, but got a testy earful on his having no cards" to play and risking World War III in his effort to secure durable peace.

The irony of their fractious exchange of words was Trumps reason for why Russia would keep its end of a bargain: in effect, because Trump uniquely knew how to deal with its President Vladimir Putin.

So, what next?

Zelensky could lose both US backing and power in Kyiv soon, analysts reckon, but perhaps this was on Trumps cards even before he reached Washington. Given Americas hard power, it may eventually get its way. Whats also at stake here, though, is its soft power. This isnt just about US movies, but also its global moves. And the White House could end up weakening it.
While Chattanoogas population continues to grow, voter turnout for city elections has done the opposite.
The latest Tennessee Influenza weekly snapshot reports the death of one pediatric patient due to the flu during the week of Feb. 16 - Feb. 22, 2025.

This is the third pediatric death reported since the start of the flu season on Oct. 1, 2024.

Deaths are reported publicly once the public health investigation is complete.

The percentage of outpatient visits due to the flu is trending lower than the previous week, as well as positive flu specimens.

Chattanooga is "moderate" for outpatient visits for the flu while surrounding cities in Tennessee are "high."
The board will hold the monthly gatherings in the Public Meeting Room at the Catoosa County Administrative Offices Building in Ringgold.
UPDATE: A former Hamilton Co. Schools teacher has changed his plea agreement to a guilty plea on federal child sex crimes charges.

Kenya White, a teacher at Chattanooga Preparatory School and East Lake Academy, pleaded guilty to federal charges related to messaging his underage students inappropriately.

Court documents show two victims were involved, one student at East Lake Academy and one student at Chattanooga Preparatory School.

White will face sentencing on October 22 for his federal charges. He still faces state charges of sexual exploitation of a minor and solicitation of a minor.

White was arrested while employed at Chatt Prep in February. He was hired while under DCS investigation.

PREVIOUS STORY: The case involving Kenya White, a former Hamilton County teacher facing numerous child sex crimes charges, was back in a Hamilton County courtroom on May 8.

The former teacher at Chattanooga Preparatory School and East Lake Academy recently pleaded guilty to federal charges related to messaging underage students inappropriately.

He still faces state charges, including sexual exploitation of a minor and solicitation of a minor.

White's attorney and the judge discussed the next steps in his case.

"He'll have to enter a change of plea, and then there will be a sentencing date," said Judge Dunn.

White's next court date is July 16th.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory School has made a statement following a former teacher's plea deal on child sex crimes that detailed his relations with two victims, one being a Chatt Prep student.

Troy Kemp, CEO of Prep Public Schools, says a student at Chatt Prep reported Kenya White's inappropriate actions to a faculty member only after hearing of his arrest on February 12, 2025.

Kemp says the school followed protocol and state law by informing the Department of Children's Services and the Chattanooga Police Department.

Kemp also explained why the school never chose to share that White was accused of committing the same crime at Chatt Prep that he did at East Lake Academy:

"Out of an abundance of concern for the student's anonymity, because there was no threat to other students, and because DCS and CPD were only beginning their investigations, Prep Public Schools did not share news of this secondary allegation. School leaders and counselors have been in contact with the student and his parents throughout this situation and ask for the media to respect the privacy of the student as well."

White pleaded guilty to federal charges of enticement of a minor. The mandatory minimum prison sentence is 10 years.

Court documents show two victims were involved, one student at East Lake Academy and one student at Chattanooga Preparatory School.

White was employed at Chatt Prep at the time of his arrest in February. He was hired while under DCS investigation, stemming from his misconduct at East Lake Academy.

White was one of several teachers at the school at the time without a valid teaching license.

PREVIOUS STORY: The former Chattanooga Preparatory Schools teacher arrested in February for several child sex crimes has pleaded guilty to his federal charges.

Court documents show Kenya White has pleaded guilty to enticement of a minor. The mandatory minimum prison sentence is 10 years, with a possible fine up to $250,000. It also includes at least five years of supervised release.

Court documents show two victims were involved, one student at East Lake Academy and one student at Chattanooga Preparatory School.

On February 16, 2023, a Chattanooga police dept. investigator responded to East Lake Academy on reports of White having inappropriate contact with a 12-year-old student at the school. At the time, White was 30 years old.

The officer located texts over a three day period, starting on Feb. 13, where White tried to persuade the victim to take explicit images to send to White.

"The defendant used an iPhone to commit the offense - an iPhone is a facility of interstate commerce," says the plea agreement.

Two years later in February of 2025, a second victim, a student at Chatt Prep, reported to a school counselor that he had received inappropriate messages from White, a teacher at the school. White began communicating with the 14-year-old student on Snapchat in May of 2024.

White's messages continually asked the second victim to "create sexually explicit images of himself and send them" to White. White also asked if the victim would allow him to "perform a sexual act on him."

The court documents say "The defendant is pleading guilty because the defendant is in fact guilty."

The plea agreement was signed on May 1 and 2 of 2025.

PREVIOUS STORY: Hamilton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Robertson no longer recommends for the charter to be revoked for Chattanooga Preparatory School after finding nearly half of the teachers were unlicensed in March.

The school caught attention in February when an unlicensed teacher was arrested on several child sex crimes charges. That teacher, Kenya White, has since been arrested a second time on federal charges. He was under a Dept. of Children Services investigation when he was hired at Chatt Prep, which began when he was working at East Lake Academy.

The joint statement released on April 16 stated:

"Instead, the schools charter will be placed in probationary status while the district and the school continue to work together to ensure the school is aligned with all compliance expectations. A probationary charter does not affect the schools operations or accreditation."

The statement says the following corrective actions must be implemented:

Provide Course Verification for students in grades 6-11 and provide additional evidence that all standards within the course have been taught and assessed for all current students.

Provide Proof of Insurance Coverage to ensure no gap in coverage will occur.

Update PowerSchool to accurately reflect the Teacher of Record. If an administrator is listed as the Teacher of Record, provide an explanation of how the administrator is teaching the course while also serving in the administrator role.

The following corrective actions have already been completed:

Verification and updating of teacher licensures and certifications

A thorough audit of students transcripts to ensure timely graduation or promotion for all students who were believed to be on track

Revision of HR procedures to ensure proper hiring, evaluation, and documentation practices

Ongoing collaboration with Chattanooga Prep, HCS, and legal and education consultants.

One of the main concerns previously written in the letter to recommend the charter to be revoked was the graduating senior class possibly not gathering valid credits because of unlicensed teachers.

Chatt Prep has since hired new leadership at the school.

Kenya White is still in federal custody.

PREVIOUS STORY: A newly unsealed indictment for Kenya White, a former Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher facing several child sex crimes charges, says he coerced a minor to engage in sexual activity and the production of child porn.

The indictment says the federal charges stem from incidents between Feb. 13 to 15 of 2023, when White was a teacher at East Lake Academy.

Chattanooga Prep parents frustrated over unanswered questions at school meeting A video sent to Local 3 News by a concerned parent captured the emotional gathering in the school's gymnasium, where hundreds of parents sought clarity on the school's potential charter revocation. However, many left feeling the meeting was more of a formality than a forum for transparency.

White was arrested exactly two years later, on Feb. 13, 2025, on the following charges while he was a teacher at Chatt Prep:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

Indictment documents say in Feb. of 2023, White drove a child across state lines to "persuade, induce, entice, and coerce" a minor in sexual activity: the production of child porn, exploitation, especially aggravated sexual exploitation of a minor, and soliciting sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means.

Two days later, White was informed by Hamilton County Schools that he was suspended without pay regarding a Dept. of Children's Services investigation.

Documents from the hiring process of Kenya White at Chatt Prep show he did not tell the school why he was previously removed as a teacher from East Lake Academy.

Chatt Prep was not set up through DCS to provide background checks, but they knew there was a disciplinary hold on White's file. He continued to work as a teacher at Chatt Prep until his arrest, two years after the incident.

White was also unlicensed during his time teaching at Chatt Prep, as were nearly half of the school's staff, says Hamilton County Schools.

In a letter to Chatt Prep, Hamilton Co. Schools says they will recommend the revocation of the school's charter on April 17.

Chatt Prep has since hired new leadership at the school.

Former Chatt Prep coach begins 30-day jail sentence for aggravated assault In July of 2024 he was indicted on charges of domestic assault, aggravated assault, child abuse and neglect, and evading arrest.

PREVIOUS STORY: A judge has set the federal trial date for Kenya White, the former Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher who faces several charges.

White was first arrested on various child sex crimes charges in February, stemming from a two-year Dept. of Children's Services investigation.

White was then arrested again in March on federal charges of enticement of a minor and exploitation of a minor. The trial is set to begin on May 19.

Internal emails at Chatt Prep show the school knew White was under DCS investigation at the time they hired him.

Hamilton Co. Schools soon after found that White was one of several teachers unlicensed at the charter school.

In a letter to Chatt Prep, Hamilton Co. Schools says they will recommend the revocation of the school's charter on April 17.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory Schools says "a new era began" on Tuesday, March 25, as the school announced new leadership at Prep Public Schools.

Troy Kemp has been named Chief Executive Officer and Chad Everett as Vice President of Schools.

"Both Kemp and Everett have passed all necessary background checks without issue," says Austin Cantrell in a release from the school.

The scrutiny of Chatt Prep began in February when an unlicenced teacher, Kenya White, was arrested on various charges of child sex crimes.

Hamilton County Schools began investigating other teachers at the school and found almost half of the teachers were unlicensed as well. They recommended the charter be revoked.

Kemp comes to Chatt Prep with 27 years of experience at the McCallie School, as well as Director of Strategic Initiatives at Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta.

I am thrilled to lead the efforts of Prep Public Schools because this is an opportunity to rewrite the narrative, increase the expectations, and improve the outcomes for Black and brown boys in Chattanooga and Knoxville, said Troy Kemp, incoming CEO of PREP Public Schools. Challenges in the past may have pushed us back on our heels, but we are shifting our stance and playing from our toes.

Everett currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of IOTA Community Schools, a charter network serving 2,100 students.

I am excited for the opportunity to cultivate the environment I wanted as a scholar and that every scholar deserves  an environment where every scholar has the freedom to discover curricular truths, as well as truths about themselves; an environment where excellence is the expectation and the brilliance of scholars and teachers is embraced bell-to-bell, every class, every day, said Chad Everett, VP of Schools of PREP Public Schools.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory Schools is set to introduce the school's new leadership after an unlicensed teacher's arrest led Hamilton Co. Schools to recommend the school's charter be revoked.

Hamilton Co. Schools says they found almost half of the teachers at Chatt Prep were not licensed.

The investigation began when an unlicensed teacher under a Dept. of Children's Services investigation was hired at the school in 2024.

Former Chatt Prep teacher, Kenya White, was arrested in February on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor. He was then arrested again in March on federal charges of enticement of a minor and exploitation of a minor.

PREVIOUS STORY: Hamilton County Schools says they are currently verifying senior credits to ensure Chattanooga Preparatory School's senior class will graduate on time.

HCS released the following statement:

"Our top priority is supporting the students at Chattanooga Prep and safeguarding their academic progress. We are currently verifying senior credits and taking any necessary corrective actions to ensure that the Senior Class will graduate on-time. We are hopeful that all 50 seniors will graduate on time, but more collaboration is needed before we can state this definitively.

Hamilton County Schools and Chattanooga Prep continue to work together to address the recent concerns regarding teacher licensure and ensure compliance with state requirements. Through our collaborative efforts, we have identified a few of Chatt Prep's 50 teachers are not eligible for a teaching license, permit, or waiver. We are actively taking steps to secure the appropriate certifications, waivers, or permits for the remaining teachers to ensure all instructional staff meet state guidelines.

As we move forward, we are committed to strengthening procedures for verifying teacher eligibility to prevent future issues. Through ongoing collaboration and accountability, we are confident in our ability to resolve this matter so that Chattanooga Prep can continue providing a high-quality education to its scholars for years to come."

Hamilton County Schools recommended for Chatt Prep's charter to be revoked after finding almost half of teachers were not licensed.

The investigation began when an unlicensed teacher under a Dept. of Children's Services investigation was hired at the school in 2024.

Former Chatt Prep teacher, Kenya White, was arrested in February on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor. He was then arrested again in March on federal charges of enticement of a minor and exploitation of a minor.

PREVIOUS STORY: The latest TCAP scores for the 2023-24 school year show Chattanooga Preparatory Schools is below the state average in every subject. Hamilton County Schools is recommending the school's charter to be revoked after learning that 21 of 45 teachers at the school were unlicensed.

The achievement rate at Chatt prep is 26.1%, while the state average is 39.6%.

Biology I

State average: 45.2%

Chatt Prep average: 29.5%

ELA

State average: 33.1%

Chatt Prep average: 21.5%

HS English

State average: 42.8%

Chatt Prep average: 35.8%

HS Math

State average: 28.5%

Chatt Prep average: 13.8%

Math

State average: 37.6%

Chatt Prep average: 28.1%

Science

State average: 43.9%

Chatt Prep average: 29.7%

Social Studies

State average: 45.5%

Chatt Prep average: 37.8%

PREVIOUS STORY: The Tennessee Charter School Center has released a statement pertaining to Chattanooga Preparatory School students potentially impacted by unlicensed teachers:

There is no law that would specifically prevent these students from graduating or invalidate their credits based solely on the licensure status of the teacher in the classroom. The state does not issue credits or diplomas and therefore would not be in a position to reject these credits or prevent a student from graduating. Issuing credits is a local issue. Chattanooga Prep makes awards credits and diplomas. We hope Hamilton County will not pursue any action that would negatively impact any student.

A letter from Hamilton County Schools recommending the revocation of Chattanooga Prep's charter status said that it's "likely" the entire graduating class was not accumulating valid credits after they found 21 of 45 teachers at the school to be unlicensed.

Spring 2025 will be Chatt Prep's first graduating class, and the school says students have accumulated $638,000 in scholarships already.

The investigation into Chatt Prep began when an unlicensed teacher was hired while under DCS investigation, then arrested for several charges of solicitation of a minor. Kenya White was recently arrested a second time for federal charges.

Several leaders at the school have resigned or been put on leave since.

Hamilton County School and Chattanooga Preparatory School say they are both committed to working together to "ensure that Prep meets or exceeds its high standards for hiring personnel."

PREVIOUS STORY: Hamilton County Schools says 21 of 45 teachers at Chattanooga Preparatory Schools are unlicensed, not having permits or waivers for classes they teach.

This means high school students are not accumulating valid credits towards graduation.

"Likely, Chattanooga Prep's entire senior class is impacted by this licensure issue."

Spring 2025 was expected to be the school's first graduating class. The school posted on facebook that each senior has a post-high school plan, and the class has together secured $638,000 in scholarships.

Hamilton County Schools say they were not aware that almost half of Chatt Prep's teachers were teaching without a license, waiver, or permit "until recently."

In a letter to Chatt Prep, Hamilton Co. Schools says they will recommend the revocation of the school's charter on April 17. The revocation will be effective at the end of the school year.

The letter from Hamilton County Schools states:

"Chattanooga Prep have willfully violated Tennessee laws governing the licensure of teachers. I also believe that the governing body and management have deliberately misrepresented who were the teachers of record in classes actually taught by these unlicensed personnel in order to avoid scrutiny from TDOE."

HCS states in the letter that all teachers in a public charter school must hold a valid Tennessee educator license.

The following teachers listed on the Chatt Prep website either did not have permits or waivers at all, or did not have an active license through the TN Dept. of Education license look-up:

Ethan Reyes - 12th Grade AP Calculus

Justin D. Shull - 12th Grade AP Government and Economics

Brandie Morgan - Exceptional Education Assistant

Davarius Joseph Harris - Geometry

Erikka Nichole Benning - Computer Science

Jaylin Davon Rogers - Physical Education

Theanthony Demonta Haymon - Behavior Interventionist

Ivan Andres Lobo - 9th Grade Guided Math

Joshua Carroll Grossi - 9th Grade Guided Reading

Khalil Marjon Watts - 8th Grade ELA

Peyton Anderson Whitley - 7th Grade History

Cheryl Hines - 7th Grade Math

Kenya White has been removed from the schools website, but was unlicensed at the time of his arrest.

The investigation into Chatt Prep began when an unlicensed teacher was hired while under DCS investigation, then arrested for several charges of solicitation of a minor. White was recently arrested a second time for federal charges.

PREVIOUS STORY: Hamilton County Schools has started the process to revoke Chattanooga Preparatory Schools charter after an unlicensed teacher was arrested for child sex crimes.

Chatt Prep stated in a letter to families that while they believe it is "Unnecessary," they will work with HCS to find a solution that benefits the district and the school.

Chatt Prep says the primary concern of Hamilton County Schools is teacher licensure.

"Prep has accepted HCS's offer to send HR staff to work alongside our employment attorneywho is currently auditing our HR processesto review employment practices and recommend any necessary changes."

Chatt Prep said there will be no disruption to school operations for the time being. The school also promised parents that they are committed to addressing concerns while they work closely with HCS.

The school also told parents to attend and share their opinions at the upcoming School Board meeting, contact members of the Hamilton County School Board, and post on social media about how the school has benefited their children.

A former Chatt Prep teacher was arrested on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor in February, then arrested a second time on federal charges early March.

Internal emails obtained by Local 3 show that Kenya White was hired at Chatt Prep while he had a disciplinary hold on his file for being under a Dept. of Children's Services investigation.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory School says they will have an answer about where they conduct teacher background checks by the end of the week, after hiring a teacher under Dept. of Children's Services investigation for sexual exploitation of a minor.

Chatt Prep's Interim CEO, Micah Bess stated:

"Our third-party legal team, which we have hired to audit our hiring processes (including our use of the DCS portal), believes they will be able to answer this question by this Friday. We will provide you with that answer as soon as it is available."

DCS told Local 3 News that the charter school was not set up in their system to do background checks for any teachers, despite the school saying they were.

It's state law for all public and charter schools to perform background checks for teachers through DCS.

Kenya White, a former Chatt Prep teacher, faces several charges including federal charges of enticement of a minor and exploitation of a minor. He was hired at Chatt Prep while under a DCS investigation that began while he was employed at a city school.

Local 3 reached out to learn if Knox Prep, Chatt Prep's sister school in Knoxville, uses the same hiring process.

Bess told Knoxville NBC affiliate, WBIR, that the Knoxville campus will learn from Chatt Prep's mistakes, but did not specify their background check process:

"All personnel being considered for employment at Knox Prep are required to undergo several levels of background checks to ensure every one of our scholars is safe while learning. Chattanooga Prep is working to hire an outside firm that specializes in HR practices to review the school's past and current processes to ensure the school's process for conducting these checks is performed without exception. Lessons learned from that review will be applied to Knox Prep if necessary. Neither Chattanooga Prep nor Knoxville Prep will allow this situation to distract from our mission to prepare the next generation of young men for success in our communities."

Local 3 has reached out to Chattanooga Preparatory Schools with more questions on staff impacted.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory School has declined the former principal's request to be paid severance after quitting during an investigation into a former teacher hired while under Dept. of Children's Services investigation.

Former principal Diamond Kelley's letter of resignation to the school says she had been "hurt."

Kelley also asks for an "exchange" to waive any legal claims against the school:

"I am also offering to waive any legal claims I have against Chattanooga Preparatory School. In exchange, I am requesting:

1. Severance pay in an amount equal to the remainder of my contract.

2. A letter confirming that background checks were the responsibility of HR.

Let me be clear: my reputation is not for sale. My integrity is not up for negotiation. I have carried myself with dignity, and I will not allow my name to be tarnished."

She goes on to say, "Only God knows I did what I was supposed to do. I leave with my head held high, I do not leave in surrender. I stand on my character, my values, and my unwavering commitment to these young men."

Chatt Prep's interim CEO Micah Bess responded to Kelley's resignation email saying, "it seems we must agree to disagree about your record while at Chattanooga Prep."

The email goes on to state:

"I politely decline the opportunity to respond to every aspect of your resignation message, except to say this: you have not been slandered by Chattanooga Prep. Your personnel file, which was requested by several local media outlets due to your involvement in the situation regarding Mr.

White, speaks for itself. Chattanooga Prep was compelled by law to respond to these FOIA requests, and we had no choice but to share your record, along with a great deal of other information legally requested by local media.

I also politely decline your request to be paid a severance. The circumstances surrounding your resignation, do not lend themselves to such an outcome."

Read the full resignation below:

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory School Principal Diamond Kelley, originally placed on leave after the arrest of a former teacher, has now resigned.

Kelley was placed on administrative leave on Feb. 18. The letter from Chatt Prep's interim CEO says the leave was while law enforcement continued to "review the Kenya White situation." She then resigned on March 6.

Kenya White, a former Chatt Prep teacher, was first arrested on Feb. 13 on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means, solicitation of a minor, and kidnapping.

On March 7, White was arrested a second time on federal charges of enticement of a minor and exploitation of a minor.

Internal emails from Chatt Prep show the school saw a disciplinary hold on his file while he was under a Dept. of Children's Services investigation, but decided to hire him anyway.

Local 3 also learned that Chatt Prep was not set up to background check teachers through DCS, which is required by law.

PREVIOUS STORY: Kenya White, a former Chattanooga Preparatory Schools teacher, faces federal charges of enticement of a minor and exploitation of a minor after his second arrest on Friday morning.

These are in addition to his previous charges he was indicted on:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

While those charges stem from a Chattanooga police and Dept. of Children Services investigation that began in 2023 while he taught at East Lake Academy, it's not clear what situation led to the recent federal charges.

Documents show White did not tell the school why he was previously removed as a teacher from East Lake Academy.

The Chatt Prep screening says Kenya White told the school he left for his own reasons:

"White reports he was employed with HCDE- East Lake Academy and left in March 2023, due to unhappiness at the school. For six years, he taught Theatre, 6th, 7th, 8th. White was a participant in HCDE's Grow Your Own program and program ended after his voluntary resignation; therefore, no teaching license."

However, White's personnel file at Hamilton County Schools says he was suspended without pay because of a Dept. of Children's Services investigation linked to inappropriate communication with a student:

Chatt Prep was not set up through DCS to provide a background check after their screening. DCS says the school is not set up in their system to provide background checks for any teachers, and Hamilton County Schools say they did not perform a background check on White through their services.

One of the references given to Chatt Prep by an East Lake Academy teacher says his weaknesses were "setting boundaries with the students. Students see him as a big brother, rather than a teacher."

Despite that statement, Chatt Prep stated on White's screening that White has "appropriate communication with parents and students."

Chattanooga police are still looking for potential victims of White during their investigation. If you have any information, call the Chattanooga Police Department at 423-698-2525 or the Department of Children's Services at 877-237-0004.

PREVIOUS STORY: McCracken Poston, attorney for Kenya White, the former Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher who now faces federal charges after his second arrest, states:

"Our constitution provides that every person is to be considered innocent until they are found guilty by plea or trial.

Its unfortunate that this matter is now being used as a political issue to attack others, and even the entire concept of charter schools.

My focus must and will remain on ensuring that Mr. White gets the fairness guaranteed to every citizen in our courts."

White was first arrested on several charges in February of 2025:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

Local 3 News has reached out to Chattanooga police to ask if they are still searching for potential victims.

PREVIOUS STORY: The former Chattanooga Preparatory Schools teacher previously arrested on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor is now behind bars again on federal charges.

The Hamilton County Sheriff's Office says Kenya White was arrested in Rossville, GA and brought into the Hamilton Co. Jail around 1:00am on Friday, March 7, by federal law enforcement officials.

He has now left their facility.

Chattanooga police first arrested White on Feb. 13 after an investigation that began two years prior with the Dept. of Children's Services.

At the time of White's first arrest, police said they were actively investigating if there could be more victims.

Since White's arrest, Local 3 discovered that Chatt Prep hired White knowing he was under a disciplinary hold stemming from the 2-year-long investigation. Internal emails show the school decided to hire him anyway.

On March 5, Tennessee Representative John Ray Clemmons requested the state to investigate Chattanooga Preparatory School.

On March 6, DCS told Local 3 that the school wasn't set up to background checks in their system, which is law for Charter Schools in Tennessee.

Since White's arrest, Chattanooga Preparatory School principal Diamond Kelley has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal review, and Human Resources Coordinator, Dr. Angelnetta Ulmer, took an early retirement.

PREVIOUS STORY: A Hamilton County charter school facing scrutiny for hiring a teacher under investigation by the Dept. of Children's Services has given Local 3 News conflicting reports of where they perform background checks for teachers.

Chattanooga Preparatory School's interim CEO, Micah Bess, stated:

"Chattanooga Prep uses the DCS portal to retrieve background checks for all prospective employees as part of our schools hiring process."

The Department of Children's Services states the opposite:

"Chattanooga Preparatory School is not set up through the TN Dept. of Childrens Services portal to perform DCS background checks. It is the responsibility of each school system to identify a select number of personnel to be granted access to the portal for the purpose of conducting background checks."

Hamilton County Schools tells Local 3 News that the school did not perform a DCS background check through their system either:

"Chattanooga Prep does not obtain background checks through HCS."

Tenn. Code Ann. 49-5-413 states that all local boards of education, charter schools, or child care programs are required to perform a DCS background check on any applicants for teaching positions.

Chatt Prep teacher Kenya White was arrested in February of 2025 on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor. The DCS investigation began when White was a teacher at East Lake Academy in 2023.

White was suspended from East Lake Academy and put on a disciplinary hold, which showed up in his file during the hiring process at Chatt Prep in 2024.

Internal emails show Chatt Prep knew of the disciplinary hold, but decided to hire him anyway.

Since the arrest, Chattanooga Preparatory School principal Diamond Kelley has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal review, and Human Resources Coordinator, Dr. Angelnetta Ulmer, took an early retirement.

Tennessee Representative John Ray Clemmons has officially requested the state to investigate the school.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory Schools confirms to Local 3 News that Human Resources Coordinator, Dr. Angelnetta Ulmer, is stepping down earlier than expected.

Ulmer initially planned to retire at the end of the 2024-25 school year, but school officials say she chose to accelerate her departure due to several factors including the ongoing situation with Kenya White, a former Chatt Prep teacher indicted on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor.

Internal emails within Chatt Prep reveal the school knew of a disciplinary hold on White but decided to hire him anyway - even though he was under investigation by the Dept. of Children Services.

Emails show Chattanooga Prep knew about teachers troubled past before hiring Tennessee Rep. John Clemmons is urging the state to investigate how White was allowed to teach at Chattanooga Prep despite his documented past.

Chattanooga Preparatory School principal Diamond Kelley has also been placed on administrative leave pending an internal review after White was arrested.

Chattanooga police are still looking for potential victims of White during their investigation. If you have any information, call the Chattanooga Police Department at 423-698-2525 or the Department of Children's Services at 877-237-0004.

PREVIOUS STORY: Tennessee Representative John Ray Clemmons has officially requested the state to investigate Chattanooga Preparatory School after the school hired a teacher on a disciplinary hold, who was later arrested for sexual exploitation of a minor.

The letter to Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti states:

"One would expect a school, even a charter school that operates with little to no oversight, to make best efforts to protect students by requesting pertinent information from a previous employer and performing a background check."

Rep. Clemmons goes on to say a state investigation into Chatt Prep would "shed much-needed light on how something as seriously disturbing as this could happen."

Read the full letter here:

PREVIOUS STORY: Internal emails show Chattanooga Preparatory School knew about a teacher let go from a different school in Hamilton County because of a Dept. of Children Services investigation before he was hired again at Chatt Prep.

The DCS investigation into Kenya White first started while he was an Education Assistant at East Lake Academy. He put on leave in 2023 pending a law enforcement investigation.

In January of 2024, White was then hired as an 8th grade english teacher at Chattanooga Preparatory School.

Internal emails obtained by Local 3 News show that Chatt Prep saw the disciplinary hold on White, but hired him anyway.

One email sent within the school said, "we cannot hire him while he's under review," and "we will need to terminate Mr. White this week."

Parents concerned about Chatt Prep's oversight after hiring teacher under DCS investigation Local 3 News is working with DCS to confirm if Chatt Prep requested background checks through DCS for White and current employees.

However, instead of terminating White, an employee at the school replied, "let's discuss this before he is terminated."

The Chatt Prep website listed him as a Guided Reading teacher for the 2024-2025 school year on their website.

Almost exactly one year since those emails were sent, White was arrested on several charges in February of 2025:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

Chattanooga Preparatory School principal Diamond Kelley has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal review after White was arrested.

Chattanooga police are still looking for potential victims of White during their investigation. If you have any information, call the Chattanooga Police Department at 423-698-2525 or the Department of Children's Services at 877-237-0004.

Hamilton Co. School Board discusses charter school application process after teacher's indictment Questions about the application process for charter schools come after a now former teacher of Chattanooga Preparatory was hired amid an investigation.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga Preparatory School principal Diamond Kelley has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal review.

In February, Chatt Prep teacher Kenya White was arrested on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means. White's personnel file shows White was suspended from his previous employment in 2023 at East Lake Academy pending a Dept. of Children's Services investigation.

Tenn. Code Ann. 49-5-413 states that all local boards of education, charter schools, or child care programs are required to perform a DCS background check on any applicants for teaching positions.

Local 3 News is working with DCS to confirm if Chatt Prep requested background checks through DCS for White and current employees.

Micah Reed Bess, Interim CEO of PREP Public Schools stated:

The greatest responsibility of every school is to ensure the safety of the children it has the privilege to educate. Chattanooga Prep believes this is one of our most fundamental responsibilities to the community we serve, which is why the school has been taking sweeping actions since learning that one of its former employees was arrested on charges that have nothing to do with Chattanooga Prep.

The extraordinary actions we have taken since learning of Mr. Whites arrest include firing the employee, placing on leave senior school staff, making counseling services available to members of our school community, and hiring an independent employment firm to investigate what internal HR processes require changes to ensure this situation never happens again.

Chattanooga Prep is determined not to allow this situation to distract from our mission to prepare the next generation of young men for success in Chattanooga.

Former teacher employed for years by Hamilton Co. Schools before child sex crimes indictment Kenya White's personnel file from Hamilton County Schools shows he was originally hired as a part-time tutor at East Lake in 2018.

PREVIOUS STORY: Now-former Chattanooga Prep School teacher Kenya White was arraigned in court Friday, Feb. 21 after he was charged with 12 counts of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means, solicitation of a minor and kidnapping.

No testimony or video was shown.

White is due back in court on May 8.

PREVIOUS STORY: A spokesperson for Hamilton County Schools says they did not receive any reference checks on Kenya White, the Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher arrested on charges of sexual exploitation.

Dr. Zac Brown, Chief of Talent with Hamilton County Schools, says, "As far as I know, [Hamilton County Schools] did not receive any reference checks on Mr. White.

Children's Advocacy Center gives tips to parents after local teacher arrested for child sex crimes A local expert said parents should look for these signs to keep their kids from becoming a victim of sexual misconduct by an educator.

White was employed at East Lake Academy for the 2022-2023 school year when the initial investigation began, but was working at Chatt Prep at the time of his arrest.

PREVIOUS STORY: The Chattanooga Preparatory School has confirmed a teacher arrested for sexual exploitation is no longer employed at the school.

Chatt Prep declined to answer multiple requests about Kenya White's employment status since his arrest on Feb. 13.

On Feb. 19, the school said:

"Chattanooga Preparatory School is deeply troubled by the recent arrest of a former employee. The safety and well-being of our scholars remain our top priority, and we are treating this matter with the utmost seriousness.

We are cooperating with law enforcement and conducting a thorough internal review. As this is an open investigation, we cannot provide further comment at this time."

White was arrested on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means, solicitation of a minor, and kidnapping.

While Hamilton County Schools says he was employed at East Lake Academy for the 2022-2023 school year when the investigation began, Chatt Prep has not said if they were aware of the investigation when hiring White.

A student of Chatt Prep says he was a teacher at the school since 2023, but the school has not confirmed this.

Former teacher employed for years by Hamilton Co. Schools before child sex crimes indictment Kenya White's personnel file from Hamilton County Schools shows he was originally hired as a part-time tutor at East Lake in 2018.

PREVIOUS STORY: Hamilton County Schools confirms to Local 3 News that Kenya White, the Chattanooga Preparatory teacher arrested for sexual exploitation, was employed at East Lake Academy for the 2022-2023 school year.

Chattanooga police say they first responded to East Lake Academy in February 2023 to investigate Kenya White. The school system declined to answer if parents at East Lake were notified of the investigation or if White had a valid teaching license at the time.

Kenya White was arrested on the following charges:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means- 12 counts

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

Police are actively seeking to find if there are more victims. If you have any information, call the Chattanooga Police Department at 423-698-2525 or the Department of Children's Services at 877-237-0004.

Chattanooga Preparatory School has still declined to answer if White is still employed at the school or not.

PREVIOUS STORY: Tennessee Department of Education records show that Kenya White, the Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher arrested for sexual exploitation of a minor, does not have a teaching license in the state currently.

It is not clear if White's license was suspended or revoked, or if he ever had a valid teaching license in the state.

Chatt Prep has still declined to comment on White's employment status.

The Chattanooga Police Department says they are actively investigating if there could be more victims of White, after he worked as a teacher for two years before the investigation lead to an indictment.

If you have any information, call the Chattanooga Police Department at 423-698-2525 or the Department of Children's Services at 877-237-0004.

PREVIOUS STORY: Chattanooga police say the investigation into a Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher arrested for multiple counts of solicitation of a minor began two years ago.

The Chattanooga Police Dept. says they first responded to East Lake Academy in February of 2023, when the Special Victims Unit and Dept. of Children's Services joined the investigation.

Multiple teams worked together to obtain digital forensic evidence to successfully lead to an indictment of Kenya White in February of 2025.

Kenya White was arrested on the following charges:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

The Chattanooga Police Dept. says they are actively investigating if there could be more victims.

If you have any information, call the Chattanooga Police Department at 423-698-2525 or the Department of Children's Services at 877-237-0004.

Chatt Prep has still declined to comment on if White is still an employee at the school at this time.

PREVIOUS STORY: A Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher has been ordered to not have contact with minors after being indicted on 14 counts related to sexual exploitation.

Kenya White's charges all stem from a February 2023 incident.

White faces a $10,000 bond for each count. He was indicted on February 10, 2025 on the following charges:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

The sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means indictment indicate White exposed a child younger than 13 years old to sexual material through electronic communication.

The solicitation of a minor charge involved a child younger than 18 years old in sexual activity.

The kidnapping charge does not detail the age of the victim.

The school still declines to comment on if White is still employed.

PREVIOUS STORY: A Chattanooga Preparatory School teacher has been arrested on several charges of sexual exploitation of a minor.

Chattanooga Preparatory School lists Kenya White as a Guided Reading 6th Grade teacher on its website.

While the Hamilton County Courts System doesn't have documents on his arrest yet, the following charges are listed:

Sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means x12

Solicitation of a minor

Kidnapping

Chattanooga Preparatory School posted on Facebook in 2024 that White was recognized as teacher of the month in March.

When asked if White was still employed by the school, Chattanooga Prep responded:

"Chattanooga Prep cannot speak to the facts surrounding the criminal charges. Please refer all questions to the Chattanooga Police Department or the Hamilton County district attorney's office."

When asked a second time if White was still employed by the school, they declined to answer the question again.
An aerial view of Boston Logan International Airport in Boston, Massachusetts, is shown.

Rick Friedman/Corbis/Getty Images
Three men who appeared before Judge Kenneth Connolly on affray charges had the matter concluded at Longford Circuit Court. Shane Cox, Daniel Keane and Liam Mannion all pleaded guilty at a previous court sitting.

Liam Mannion (34) was charged with committing an affray by using unlawful violence on November 21, 2021 at Aide Farrell's Pub car park, and also of producing a weapon in the course of a dispute.



Daniel Keane (31) of Clonbonny, Lanesboro and Shane Cox (32) of Clonard, Clondra each faced an affray charge. A fourth defendant charged in connection with the matter is the subject of a European arrest warrant.

Counsel for the prosecution Shane Geraghty BL, outlined the details of the matter that brought the defendants before the judge.

On the evening of the incident Mr Cox, Mr Keane and another party were drinking in the Lanesboro pub. An altercation arose in the toilet between Mr Mannion and the fourth man, who has yet to come before the court, which saw Mr Mannion challenge the other man to a fight for 1,000.



The dispute spilled out into the car park of the public house. Mr Mannion felt threatened and went to his jeep and got a piece of timber.

The three other men chased him, and when he hit on the ground one of the men continued to hit Mr Mannion. The court was told that the man yet to come before the court struck Mr Mannion on the side of the head, partially severing his ear.

Mr Geragty said after this the matter dissipated and CCTV footage showed that the three men appeared to stand around chatting in the car park in the aftermath of the incident, despite the fact some had sustained significant injuries.

Counsel for Mr Keane, Niall Fox BL, said his client had minimum involvement and entered a guilty plea even though he had not engaged in the fracas.



Mr Keane was involved in the lowest possible way, Mr Fox said, there is little or no evidence he was actively engaging in violent disorder. He was on the periphery at best.

Counsel said his client, who works on groundworks in the construction industry, had tried to diffuse the situation adding: He only struck out in a bid to push Mr Mannion away.

Acknowledging Mr Keane was in the thick of it the barrister insisted his client was a minor player in the drama.

Mr Fox also pointed out the defendant's probation report was broadly positive and this was his first time in the Circuit Court: He gave a truthful account of the incident, Mr Fox said, The whole thing lasted 20 seconds and at one point Mr Keane tried to separate the two parties.



Counsel pointed to his client's good work history, his early guilty plea and that fact he contacted the injured party the next day to apologise for being there.

Mr Fox said the defendant undertook a third level engineering degree, but did not finish and is now employed as a fitter.

Counsel for Mr Manion, Dimitry Grinberg BL, said his client felt he was lured down an alleyway by the fourth person. Mr Grinberg said Mr Mannion was the first to report the incident and even though he got a bad hiding there was no bad blood to precipitate the matter.



The defendant sustained abrasions, bruising and tissue loss to his ear. Counsel said that on the night alcohol and drugs were at play and pointed out that Mr Mannion had cooperated fully with the investigation.

Since this incident he has engaged with the Hope House Addiction Centre and has had strong family support: Mr Mannion had done everything to address his issues that manifested in the past, Mr Grinberg said.

Mr Fox also represented Shane Cox for the finalisation of the matter. He highlighted that Mr Cox attempted to engage with Mr Mannion to pushed him back and had no other involvement in the incident.



Mr Cox was immediately remorseful, the barrister said and pointed out that in a fulsome interview he said no one deserved that when told of Mr Mannion's injuries.

Mr Fox said the defendant tried to diffuse the situation on a number of occasions. He told the court Mr Cox is a father of two children,full time worker and although he had previous convictions he was not on the Garda radar.



In concluding matters Judge Connolly first said the charges against Mr Mannion would attract a sentence of 14 months in prison, however mitigation would allow this to be reduced to 200 hours of community service in lieu of the custodial term.

Mr Mannion must complete the community service within one year and also makes a payment of 2,000 to Lanesboro Tidy Towns Committee.

Judge Connolly accepted that Mr Keane's involvement put him at the lower end of the scale but said a nine month sentence was the appropriate one. The judge said mitigation allowed this to be suspended for a period of two years on Mr Keane's own bond of 200.



In concluding the case against Shane Cox the judge said the affray charge would attract an 18 month prison term, but this could be mitigated to 12 months, that sentence was suspended for a period of two year on Mr Cox's bond of 200.

Read next: https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/local-news/1739316/longford-man-lost-the-plot-and-attacked-victim-with-iron-bar.html
With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

GAC Honda unveils Honda P7's technologies

On March 3, GAC Honda held a technology conference to introduce the development concept and innovations of the Honda P7. As the first model under Honda's e:N Architecture W, the mid-size electric SUV features upgraded battery, motor, and intelligence systems.

FAW-Audi puts two RS flagship models onto market

On March 3, FAW-Audi officially put its RS flagship models onto the market. The Audi RS 6 Avant GT is priced at 1.9066 million yuan, while the Audi RS Q8 45th Anniversary Edition costs 1.7248 million yuan.

Audi RS 6 Avant GT; photo credit: FAW Audi

XPENG applies for 'P7 Ultra' trademark

According to Chinese corporate database Tianyancha, Guangdong XPENG Motors Technology Co., Ltd. recently filed a trademark application for "P7 Ultra" under the vehicle category. The trademark is currently awaiting substantive review.

Geely Automobile posts 84% YoY hike in Feb. 2025 auto sales

Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (Geely Automobile) reported total sales of 204,910 vehicles in February 2025, marking an 84% year-on-year spike, according to the company's announcement on March 1. This also marks the sixth consecutive month for the automaker to achieve sales surpassing 200,000 units.

Dongfeng Nissan's Venucia brand puts V-Online DD-i Orca edition onto market

On February 28, Dongfeng Nissan's Venucia brand officially released the new V-Online DD-i Orca edition onto the market. The model is available in three variants, with limited-time introductory prices ranging from 125,900 yuan to 145,900 yuan. After additional discounts, the starting price is set at 99,900 yuan.

Great Wall Motor posts 9.65% YoY growth in Feb. 2025 vehicle sales

In February 2025, Great Wall Motor ("GWM") recorded a sales volume of 77,883 new vehicles, which climbed 9.65% over the previous year, according to an announcement the company issued on March 1.

DEEPAL delivers 18,783 vehicles in Feb. 2025

On March 1, Changan Automobile's new energy vehicle brand DEEPAL announced its latest sales figures, reporting 18,738 vehicle deliveries in February, representing an 87.5% year-on-year surge.

Leapmotor logs 285% YoY soar in Feb. auto deliveries

In February 2025, Chinese new energy vehicle maker Leapmotor delivered 25,287 vehicles, marking a 285% year-on-year soar, according to the company's announcement on March 1.

BYD boasts 163.95% YoY spike in Feb. 2025 auto sales

BYD Company Limited ("BYD") reported sales of 322,846 new vehicles for the month of February 2025, marking a remarkable year-on-year surge of 163.95%, and also showing a month-on-month growth of 7.42%.
Local News, Crime

By Long Island Published: March 03 2025

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 7:30 p.m., the Third Squad of Nassau County Police Department arrested Etienne Jackson, 39, of Menands, New York, for Attempted Grand Larceny 3rd Degree. An 84-year-old woman received a ...

The Third Squad reports the details of an Attempted Grand Larceny arrest that occurred on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in Westbury.

According to detectives, an 84-year-old female received a phone call from an unknown male who stated her grandson had been arrested and needed $9,800 USC to be bailed out of jail. The victim, suspecting it was a possible scam called the Third Squad to report the incident and request assistance. Detectives responded to the victims residence and when the suspect came to retrieve the money, defendant Etienne Jackson, 39, of 1060 Broadway, Menands, New York was placed under arrest without incident.

Defendant Jackson is charged with Attempted Grand Larceny 3 rd Degree and was arraigned on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at First District Court, 99 Main Street, Hempstead.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: March 03 2025

Bill Strengthens Small Business Collaboration with DOE, National Labs, Including Long Islands Brookhaven National Laboratory.

Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), alongside co-leads Rep. Kelly Morrison (D-MN) and Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-MI), all members of the House Small Business Committee, released the following statements after LaLotas bipartisan DOE and SBA Research Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. This bill supports increased joint research and development activities between the Department of Energy (DOE), National Laboratoriesincluding Brookhaven National Laboratory on Long Island and the Small Business Administration.

"Small businesses are the backbone of Main Street America, and they deserve a greater opportunity to engage in the groundbreaking research and innovation opportunities emerging from the Department of Energys National Labs, including Brookhaven National Lab in my district. My legislation paves a clearer path for partnerships between the federal government and small businesses, driving American innovation forward," said Rep. LaLota. "I will continue to champion small businesses in Congress, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to contribute to vital advancements in science and technology.

Minnesota is a proud home to a strong research and development ecosystem. Research and development is an essential driver of economic growth and a significant determinant of business success  but too often small businesses dont have the resources they need to engage in these projects. This bill will expand research and development opportunities for small businesses, ensuring they can remain competitive, grow, and thrive. I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan legislation because our small businesses must continue to play a central role in driving American innovation and ingenuity forward, said Congresswoman Morrison.

"The DOE and SBA Research Act is a game-changer in strengthening collaboration between the Department of Energy and the Small Business Administration, driving innovation and expanding our nation's research and development potential," said Congressman Thanedar. "America stays ahead because of our competitive edge, and this bill will continue to fuel those efforts and bring about change to improve the lives of the American people."

To read the full text of the legislation, click HERE.

Background:

The DOE and SBA Research Act supports increased joint research and development activities between the Department of Energy (DOE), National Laboratories, including Brookhaven National Laboratory, and the Small Business Administration. Specifically, this bill directs the DOE and SBA to conduct collaborative research and development activities, focusing on joint advancement in mission requirements and priorities, and mandate a collaborative report within two years. Additionally, this bill emphasizes the need for research security provisions. The DOE and SBA Research Act will enable Congress to track the effectiveness of these research collaborations, providing a feedback mechanism for strategy adjustments where necessary.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: March 03 2025

Kaitlin's research focused upon Magnesium Magic: The Rescue of the Parkinsons Model of Drosophila melanogaster with MgCl Supplementation.

During the Monday, Feb. 24 meeting of the full Nassau County Legislature, Minority Leader Delia DeRiggi-Whitton (D  Glen Cove) joined with her colleagues in honoring Nassau Countys Regeneron Science Talent Search semifinalists and finalists.

Pictured above, Minority Leader DeRiggi-Whitton and Nassau County Legislator Samantha Goetz (R  Locust Valley) congratulated North Shore High School semifinalist Kaitlin Ho, whose research focused upon Magnesium Magic: The Rescue of the Parkinsons Model of Drosophila melanogaster with MgCl Supplementation. For qualifying as a semifinalist, Kaitlin earned $2,000 and an additional $2,000 award to advance science education at her school.

Kaitlin was one of two Regeneron semifinalists hailing from North Shore High School; her classmate Eli Weseley-Jones was recognized for his project The Misunderstood Math of Medical Tests: Improving Understanding of Conditional Probability in Screening Tests.
An image posted by Shabaab on social media shows a Shabaab fighter posing inside Biyo Cadde after the group captured the town.

Since at least February 20, Shabaab, al Qaedas branch for East Africa, has mounted a sizable offensive in southern and central Somalia between the Middle Shabelle and Hiraan regions. In some areas, local or federal forces were able to hold their ground and force Shabaab back. However, Shabaab currently remains in control of other locales (as of the time of publishing).

The fighting began on February 20, when Shabaab launched a coordinated assault on local militia and federal government fortifications in the towns of Ceel Cali Axmed, Cali Fooldheere, Alkowsar, and Daarunimca, all spanning southern Hiraan and northern Middle Shabelle.

At the time, both the federal government and the local Macawisley (clan militias) claimed victory, with Mogadishu stating that the attacks were repelled and over 130 Shabaab militants were killed. The US militarys Africa Command (AFRICOM) also said it launched at least two airstrikes in this vicinity in support of Somali forces.

In its media releases, Shabaab claimed to have killed over 60 pro-government forces across the towns, showing dead bodies in several photos.

Shabaab also released images from Alkowsar and Daarunimca showing that its forces at least temporarily occupied the two towns on February 20. In Ceel Cali Axmed and Cali Fooldheere, Shabaab also claimed via photos to have overrun at least one defensive position in each locale. However, it did not offer any evidence of occupying the towns.

A day later, on February 21, intense fighting broke out in Ceelbaraf and Miirtaqwa in the Middle Shabelle region. Shabaab claimed to have at least briefly occupied the two towns, releasing photos showing its men in each town square. Somali officials openly communicated that the towns initially fell to Shabaab but stated that they were eventually wrestled back under government control.

However, the current status of Ceelbaraf remains unclear, as it has since changed hands between the warring sides multiple times. The US also hit Shabaab militants in the town with at least two airstrikes in recent days.

On February 25, Shabaab launched another coordinated attack across multiple locales, hitting Aboorey, Beero Yabal, and, again, Alkowsar and Ceel Cali Axmed. While it is reported that Shabaab entered the latter town unopposed, the group met stiff resistance in Aboorey, Alkowsar, and Beero Yabal.

Somali authorities stated that the militants were driven back from Beero Yabal, and the US launched an additional airstrike near Alkowsar that helped repel that assault. In Aboorey, however, Shabaab claimed to have overrun the local military base, offering additional photo evidence of this claim. Other sources have also alleged that Alkowsar eventually fell to Shabaab, though this remains unconfirmed.

Two days later, on February 27, Shabaab gunmen forced government troops to temporarily withdraw from parts of Balcad, a city just 30 kilometers from Mogadishu. Somali officials initially denied this incursion, claiming to have repelled the militants. However, Shabaab again offered photographic evidence of its men patrolling the streets in parts of the city. Balcad was brought back under government control after federal forces regrouped and counterattacked.

On March 1, Shabaab conducted an assault on the town of Biyo Cadde in the Middle Shabelle region. As in the other locales, Somali officials initially claimed to have repelled the attack, including stating forces had killed senior Shabaab leaders. However, Shabaab offered photographic evidence of its men occupying parts of the town and a local military base. The current status of Biyo Cadde remains unclear, though Shabaab is believed to occupy the town still.

Shabaab taking advantage of security gaps

Shabaabs recent offensive happened against the backdrop of several security gaps in the region.

The federal government previously captured many of these areas from Shabaab during the governments large-scale counteroffensive against the group in central Somalia from 2022 to 2023. The governments offensive has since largely stalled, while additional planned phases have either also stalled or not yet come to fruition. Federal troops have periodically conducted operations in Hiraan and Middle Shabelle but not to the same scale or tempo as the counteroffensives height in late 2022.

In Hiraan and northern Middle Shabelle, Mogadishu has also relied on the Macawisley to do much of the holding operations for areas taken from Shabaab. Inter-clan fighting, which has straddled Hiraan and Middle Shabelle in the same areas, has periodically broken out, taking further focus away from the fight against Shabaab. Mogadishu has so far struggled to prevent the armed clan militias from turning their weapons on each other.

Middle Shabelle was also the responsibility of Burundian troops under various African Union mandates in Somalia. However, following disagreements with Mogadishu over Burundis total contingent size during negotiations over the current mission, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), Burundi stated it would not participate in AUSSOM. Burundi recently started withdrawing from Middle Shabelle, handing over bases to the Somali army, while Ugandan forces are reportedly set to take over other positions.

The situation in Hiraan and Middle Shabelle is more perilous in light of Shabaabs ability to mount such a large fighting force over a large areapresumably hundreds of fighters, given the multi-pronged, coordinated assaultsdespite the Somali government claiming to be in firm control of this axis.

Mogadishu and its allies, particularly the United States, will likely need to regroup and counterattack quickly to reverse any gains made by Shabaab in recent days. Addressing the above-mentioned security gaps and challenges may also prevent or at least hinder Shabaab from mounting such assaults in the future.

Caleb Weiss is an editor of FDD's Long War Journal and a senior analyst at the Bridgeway Foundation, where he focuses on the spread of the Islamic State in Central Africa.
Luxembourg was one of few the countries in the world that was able to improve its score in the 2024 Democracy Index, which was published by The Economist last Friday.

The Grand Duchy made it into the top 10 in the index, and is one of only 25 countries that qualified for the highest full democracies level out of 167 nations that were analysed by the survey.

Luxembourgs improvement is less than common in a world where the democratic model developed over the last century is under threat, the reports authors said.

Their findings for 2024 are clear: there has been more deterioration than improvement.

Only a minority of 37 of the 167 countries surveyed improved their score in 2024 compared to the previous year. A further 47 countries stagnated and 83 deteriorated. Only 71 countries are now considered to be democratic regimes, 60 have been labelled authoritarian and 36 are defined by the authors as hybrid, which means they combine elements of electoral democracy and authoritarian behaviour.

Increasingly authoritarian regimes

This regression is mainly due to the deterioration of the situation in authoritarian regimes. Authoritarian regimes tend to become even more authoritarian over time, the report noted.

The proportion of the worlds population living under this type of regime, now over a third (39.2%), has been rising steadily in recent years.

Democracy is also on a downward path: less than half the worlds population (45%) now lives under a democratic regime (compared with 48% in 2014), and only 6.6% live in a full democracy, compared with 12.5% in 2014.

Countries such as the United States, France and Belgium are now considered to be flawed democracies, according to the index.

Western Europe, the most democratic region

Western Europe remains the most democratic region in the world, more so than North America. It is also the only region to have - very slightly - improved its overall score in 2024.

In a year characterised by regression everywhere else, this is something of an achievement, said the report.

15 of the 25 countries living under full democracy are from Western Europe, as are nine countries in the top 10, with Luxembourg replacing Australia in 10th place.

Nordic countries performed particularly well, representing five of the seven places. Norway landed the top spot, followed by New Zealand, Sweden, Iceland, Switzerland, Finland and Denmark.

Luxembourg falls short in the "political participation" category

While Luxembourg performs very well in the categories of electoral process and pluralism (10/10), civil liberties (9.71) and functioning of government, it falls slightly short in political culture (8.75) and especially in political participation (6.67), which negatively impacted its overall score. Just under half of the population, 47%, is foreign and therefore exempted from voting in national parliament elections.

Nevertheless, the Grand Duchy is one of only five countries in Western Europe (and 37 worldwide) to have managed to improve its score compared with 2023, while six have regressed, including Germany (ranked 13th) and France.

Also read: Language major barrier for foreigners interested in politics

The latter, as a result of the political instability caused by the surprise government dissolution last year, dropped by three ranks to 26th. It was demoted to the category of flawed democracy, where it joins Belgium (34th place).

Citizens' low esteem for their democratic systems

Western Europes good score should, however, not be taken for granted, the report found.

Despite being the highest-ranking region in the world, and the only region whose average score has recovered to pre-pandemic levels, western Europe is home to large swathes of discontented citizens who are increasingly turning to antimainstream parties, the authors said.

This was amply demonstrated in the many elections that took place across the continent in 2024, which were characterised by a backlash against incumbents and rising support for antiestablishment and populist parties, they added.

Furthermore, the report notes that "there is a dichotomy between the high scores recorded by many countries in the top half of the global rankings - which possess the formal institutions, processes and legal prerequisites of democracy - and the low esteem in which many citizens hold their democratic systems.

Rebuilding the link with marginalised voter groups

Formal democratic institutions are not enough to retain public support, the study found.

More than half the world's population went to the polls in 2024, with many election results showing growing public support for populist parties.

"The main problem confronting our democracies is often identified as one of populism, rather than the deficiencies of our representative systems, said the report. With notable exceptions, much of the discussion of democracy problematises populism rather than addressing the underlying issues that have given rise to populist movements.

Also read: Cross-party group call for action against online disinformation

The report attributed the drop in citizens trust in democracy to the fact that governments and political parties in many democracies have become estranged from citizens and as a consequence are no longer responsive to their concerns.

Populist parties seize this opportunity to at least establish a link with marginalised sections of the electorate.

The democratic recession is not new: it began in 2007 and has persisted ever since as the overall score of the index fell from 5.52 out of ten in 2006 to 5.17 in 2024 and the number of democracies also dropped.

(This article was first published on Virgule. Translation and editing by Tracy Heindrichs.)
When reviewing a new device, as with so many things, its important to keep an open mind. But I could tell within a matter of hours that the iPhone 16e and I were not going to get on.

It was the end of the day. A long day: I was tired, having traveled to Apples London HQ to pick up the review sample (black finish, Winter Blue case: looks great) among a bunch of other jobs. Running on auto-pilot, I reached over to quickly attach the phone to the MagSafe puck by my bed, and then I remembered. The iPhone 16e doesnt support MagSafe.

Ah, man.

Im aware that this is going to sound like the first-worldest of first-world problems from a guy who just got presented with a free iPhone, and that the worlds smallest violin is probably tuning up as I type. But MagSafe is one of those features that showcases Apple at its best: it takes a small inconvenience and sands it away so frictionlessly that you forget the small inconvenience ever existed. Not including it in a 2025 iPhone is not a nice thing to do.

A few years back, wirelessly charging an iPhone was a mild faff because you had to place it on exactly the right part of the puck, check it was charging correctly, and then make sure not to nudge it with an inadvertent elbow. Get any of this wrong and there was a fair chance youd wake up (possibly later than planned, if you were depending on an alarm) with an iPhone that was not charged, but dead. With the launch of the iPhone 12 in 2020, MagSafe changed all that overnight.

All you had to do was hold the iPhone somewhere in the vicinity of a compatible charging pucks sweet spot and it would be sucked into the optimal placement by powerful magnets and held there securely. The screen showed you that it was charging with a neat animation and there was no doubt that your phone would be filled up the next time you reached for it.

MagSafe is a fantastic Apple feature that takes the guesswork out of wireless charging. Apple

For the first generation, it was a brilliant and helpful innovation and it became (at least for me) a totally standard aspect of owning an iPhone, something I benefited from without being conscious of that fact. Its taken the arrival of the MagSafe-free iPhone 16e four and a half years later to remind me how essential and brilliant the feature is, and it really is a wrench going back to the old way of doing things. Not a disaster, of course, but a small, unexpected, and persistent annoyance. Like when you forget to charge your AirPods and are forced to deal with tangle-prone wired headphones.

The lack of MagSafe on the iPhone 16e is a clear backward step, and one that on the surface doesnt seem to make a whole lot of sense. There was a rumor initially that it had something to do with the C1 modem, but Apple quickly denied that, insisting instead that it had been left off deliberately because the target audience prefers to charge with a cable. Maybe thats true; I havent seen the companys customer research. But Id venture to suggest that the real reason has more to do with product differentiation and upselling the phones Apple would prefer for you to buy.

Im not going to pretend that Tim Cook will shed a tear every time someone buys an iPhone 16e. But hed probably consider the transaction somewhat bittersweet: a sale gained, but a bigger sale lost. Its hard not to think that MagSafe has been left off so potential buyers will think to themselves, Maybe I should spend an extra $200 for an iPhone 16. Thats also why theres a stingy single camera on the rear when Apple has been selling phones with two cameras since 2016 and with three cameras since 2019. (Youd think it would be easier from a manufacturing point of view, given that the 16e appears to be based on an iPhone 14 chassis, to have two.) Id even blame this strategy for the 16es limited range of color finishes: if you want pink, teal, or ultramarine, you need to get the 16.

If the Mag part of MagSafe is a dealbreaker for youand it might be a considerably bigger factor for those with car mounts than it is for methen you should note that there is a workaround: you can simply add a MagSafe case. It wont get you MagSafes faster charging speeds or add much more than a magnetic connection, but that doesnt make much difference when you just want to charge overnight. Thats what Im planning to do, anyway. (Albeit under protest, since Id rather use Apples Winter Blue case, but it obviously doesnt have MagSafe.)

Its not the end of the world, then, and I dont expect the lack of MagSafe to guarantee the iPhone 16e a devastating hatchet job of a review. (Youll have to wait and see if other factors lead to that.) But youd have to say that its an odd strategy, reminding customers how good a feature is by removing it from a new product. Good job, Apple: Youve taught me not to take MagSafe for granted. But can we please have it back now?

Foundry

Welcome to our weekly Apple Breakfast column, which includes all the Apple news you missed last week in a handy bite-sized roundup. We call it Apple Breakfast because we think it goes great with a Monday morning cup of coffee or tea, but its cool if you want to give it a read during lunch or dinner hours too.

Trending: Top stories

The iPhone 16e wont make sense until its iPad moment.

Thiago Trevisan is a Mac power user. These five tips will turn you into one too.

Here are five things Apple killed to make room for the iPhone 16e.

Forget the 16e. This is the $499 iPhone Apple should have made instead.

Apple is finally ready to conquer Qualcomm in the 5G game.

The iPhone 16e settles it: Apple is no longer a luxury company.

The original Mac icon artist is selling a set of adorable silver and gold keycaps.

Oppos new folding phone transforms into a teeny-tiny MacBook.

Photoshop is finally available on the iPhone.

Podcast of the week

In the latest episode of the Macworld Podcast, we talk about the demise of the Apple product launch event. Why is Apple doing this, and is it the best way to go?

You can catch every episode of the Macworld Podcast on Spotify, Soundcloud, the Podcasts app, or our own site.

Reviews corner

The rumor mill

Leaked iPhone 17 CAD images reveal three different camera designs.

The M4 MacBook Air is likely to arrive in mid-March. And it looks a lot like the M4 iPad Pro in early tests.

Researchers hack Apples Find My network to track any Bluetooth device. Thats a little scary.

PSA: Your Mac will eventually install that macOS update whether you want it or not.

Mac security researchers expose two new exploits.

Apple removes Advanced Data Protection from U.K. iPhones following backdoor demand.

iPhone dictation feature reportedly swaps Racist for Trump.

iOS 18.4 public beta begins with Apple Intelligence expansion but no new Siri.

And with that, were done for this weeks Apple Breakfast. If youd like to get regular roundups, sign up for our newsletters, including our new email from The Macalopean irreverent, humorous take on the latest news and rumors from a half-man, half-mythical Mac beast. You can also follow us on Facebook, Threads, Bluesky, or X for discussion of breaking Apple news stories. See you next Monday, and stay Appley.


It was hoped that the launch of Apple Intelligence would give the companys Siri voice assistant a much-needed upgrade. But almost nine months on from the announcement of this plan, theres no sign of its arrivaland further delays are now hindering Apples attempts to compete in the AI arena.

In the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman builds on a prediction he made last month: that the new Apple Intelligence-powered version of Siri isnt likely to be released until iOS 18.5 in May, an astonishing 11 months after it was unveiled at WWDC 2024. At the time Gurman cited bugs and features that still dont work consistently.

But the article adds further bad news. Whereas the new version of Siri forms (a surprisingly late) part of the iOS 18 release cycle, a more radical shakeup is slated as part of iOS 19, and this one faces major delays too.

Known internally as LLM Siri, this will be built from the ground up around Apple Intelligence. (The upcoming version of Siri, Gurman says, is a grafted-together hybrid system with two brains that handle legacy commands and AI functions separately.) Aside from this new architecture, iOS 19 Siri was planned to feature a more conversational approach, but this has hit developmental obstacles and wont be included when the other elements of iOS 19 Siri are announced at WWDC 25 this June.

This was always likely when AI Siri first started struggling. Resources have to be pulled from longer-term projects to fight fires in the short term, and that means a cascade of delays stretching into the future. And Gurman thinks its going to get worse before it gets better. People within Apples AI division now believe that a true modernized, conversational version of Siri wont reach consumers until iOS 20 at best in 2027, he writes.

With other companies hurrying to hone their own AI offerings, Apple faces a struggle to remain relevant. No wonder Gurman calls this an even bleaker timeline than many of us imagined.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On March 2, Geely Automobile Holdings Limited (Geely Automobile) announced that its subsidiary, Zhejiang Jirun, has signed a joint venture framework agreement with Two Rivers Industrial Fund, Chongqing Industrial Master Fund, Chongqing Maichi, Lotus Robotics, Qianli Technology, and Jianghehui, to establish a joint venture focused on intelligent driving business.

Photo credit: Geely

The total investment in the joint venture will amount to 4.7515 billion yuan, with a registered capital of 200 million yuan. Upon completion, Zhejiang Jirun or its designated entity, Chongqing Maichi, and QL Partnership will each hold a 30% stake, while Lotus Robotics or its designated entity, and an employee incentive platform will each own 5%.

Under the agreement, Zhejiang Jirun will contribute 1.3 billion yuan in assets, including intelligent driving technologies free-of-charge and 200 million yuan in cash. Chongqing Maichi will inject approximately 1.5-billion-yuan worth of intelligent driving technologies free-of-charge, while Lotus Robotics will contribute 250 million yuan in related technology. Additionally, QL Partnership and the employee incentive platform will provide 1.5 billion yuan and 150 million yuan in cash, respectively.

Geely Automobile stated that the joint venture will integrate its partners' strengths in intelligent driving technology, R&D, funding, and industrial resources to enhance collaboration strength, improve R&D efficiency, and reduce costs, accelerating its leadership in the intelligent driving sector.

Additionally, the joint venture will play a key role in Geely's AI-driven automotive ecosystem, providing advanced intelligent driving solutions for future Geely models. The group also plans to work closely with the new entity to enhance its smart driving capabilities and accelerate the iteration of intelligent driving features.
If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us

We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom.
Boston Police Department released the identity of the man who was shot and killed by an off-duty police officer inside a Chick-fil-A in Bostons Copley Square on Saturday evening.

Lemark Jaramillo, 32, of Roslindale was identified on Monday morning as the man shot inside the restaurant at 569 Boylston St.

At a press conference Saturday evening, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox said two individuals ran inside the restaurant and were being chased by a man with a knife.

The man attempted to stab the two individuals and an off-duty police officer identified himself and told the man to drop the weapon, but he did not, Cox said.

The officer shot and struck the man who was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, Cox said.

This is a pretty tragic incident, Cox said. Our condolences go to the individual who was killed tonight. We are proud of our officers who activate themselves  whether its on duty or off duty  to try to save lives."

The off-duty officer was also brought to the hospital for evaluation but without any reported injuries, Cox said. The officers name has not yet been released.

Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said his offices homicide unit will direct and control the investigation. He said many witnesses are cooperating with the investigation and that a large amount of video evidence was being reviewed.

There are other individuals who were here who know something, who witnessed something, who may have been involved, and we ask them to step forward, he said.

We need the help of everybody that knows anything about what happened here if we are to get to the bottom of it, if we are going to get to the truth, and if we are going to get to an understanding of what happened in this very chaotic situation, Hayden said.

While not a lot of information was shared at the press conference about the individuals involved in the incident, Hayden said They were young people as far as we know.

Wu and Hayden both shared their condolences for the family of the man killed.

Im glad that the officer is safe and Im very grateful for a quick response from all of our first responders here in such an active part of Boston, Wu said.
Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman (1) collides with Minnesota Wild center Gustav Nyquist (41) after blocking a shot during the first period of an NHL hockey game, Sunday, March 2, 2025, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr) AP

The Boston Bruins fell to the Minnesota Wild on Sunday afternoon at Xcel Energy Center in a 1-0 loss.

The first didnt feature a whole lot of action. But Mark Kastelic tried to change that when he dropped the gloves with Marcus Foligno with 10:22 left in the period with a heavyweight tilt.

Foligno brought Kastelic to the ground after the two exchanged blows, but it didnt generate much offense on either side as both teams went into the intermission scoreless.

The stalemate ended 5:01 in the second when Frederick Gaudreau got a piece of a Marcus Johansson shot through traffic to beat Jeremy Swayman for the 1-0 lead on a play where the officials missed a slash on Morgan Geekie.

The score remained 1-0 thanks in part to Swayman who came up with some big saves throughout the period.

The Bruins had their chances in the third period, including a power play. But the offense was lifeless and couldnt capitalize despite outshooting the Wild, 28-22.

Filip Gustavsson stopped all 28 shots he faced.

Swayman  who has now lost his last five starts  made 21 saves in the loss.

The Bruins return home Tuesday night when they host the Nashville Predators.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- SAIC Motor announced on March 2 its monthly auto sales reached 294,942 units in the second month of 2025, surging 41.9% from the previous year.

Of the vehicles the group sold last month, 86,142 units were new energy vehicles (NEVs), representing a year-on-year spike of 41.27%.

In addition, SAIC Motor also reported a volume of 67,771 vehicles for its exports and overseas market sales for the month of February, indicating an 18.36% growth over a year earlier.

Breaking down the sales figures by specific subsidiaries, SAIC Volkswagen sold 63,000 vehicles, which remained flat over the year-ago period. SAIC-GM recorded a 133.6% year-on-year surge in its Feb. sales, which stood at 31,536 units. SAIC Motor Passenger Vehicle Company posted a 38.47% year-over-year growth with 45,599 vehicles sold. Besides, SAIC-GM-Wuling sold 128,000 vehicles in the same month, which soared 70.67% from a year ago. IM Motors logged a 43.25% year-on-year plunge with 1,135 vehicles sold in the same period.

MG 7; photo credit: MG

For the Jan.-Feb. period, the group's total sales reached 559,108 vehicles, jumping 23.49% from the previous year.

On February 21, 2025, SAIC Motor and Huawei Device Co., Ltd. signed a comprehensive strategic cooperation agreement in Shanghai. The partnership will focus on product definition, manufacturing, supply chain management, and sales services, aiming to co-develop a new generation of intelligent new energy vehicles (NEVs) and enhance the smart mobility experience for consumers.

SAIC Motor stated that this collaboration will enable both companies to leverage their respective strengths, propelling China's automotive industry to new heights in the era of intelligent mobility. By deeply integrating their talents and resources, SAIC Motor and Huawei will explore technological and business model innovations, striving to create globally competitive smart vehicles that offer enhanced intelligence, convenience, and safety for users.
The same Vineyard Wind turbine blade that snapped in half last summer now appears to have been struck by lightning, according to the company and the U.S. Coast Guard.

On Sunday, officials confirmed that the turbine at the southernmost end of the Vineyard Wind lease off Marthas Vineyard was apparently hit by lightning late last week, damaging the already broken blade.

The Coast Guard reported a strike occurred on Thursday, Feb. 27, and it was working with Vineyard Wind to ensure there were no navigational hazards in the area.

Vineyard Wind, in a statement Sunday afternoon, said a preliminary inspection indicated that the blade had been hit by lightning, and the company was continuing to assess the damage.

This was contained to the damaged blade and based on current information there is no impact to the nacelle or turbine structure, the company wrote. Vineyard Wind deployed both aerial and maritime resources and based on current observations, there is no indication of debris from this event.

The strike comes as Vineyard Wind was working to get back on track after the blade broke in July, scattering thousands of pieces of fiberglass into the ocean. The turbine, one of 62 planned for a 166,886-acre area of ocean about 14 miles south of the Island, had a defect that was not caught in the manufacturing process and had since been turned off.

The company is under orders from the federal government to remove 66 blades that were built at the same Canadian factory as the defective one.

Vineyard Wind on Sunday said it was already continuously monitoring the broken turbine due to the previous blade failure, and its manufacturer, GE Vernova, planned to remove the remaining portion of the blade and replace it in May.

The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, the federal agency charged with overseeing offshore wind energy projects, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday.

Standing more than 800-feet tall, the turbines have been a point of controversy in the region and nationally. Vineyard Wind was the first commercial-scale project to get all of its permitting when it was approved by the federal government in 2021, and last summer, before the break, it was the largest operating offshore wind farm in the country.

As of January, only one turbine was back up and running, and the company last week was supposed to start testing its light system for aircraft flying over. Officials on Nantucket said the company was also getting a new vessel that could help with taking down the defective turbine blades.

According to Vineyard Winds construction plans filed with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, the turbines and service platforms would have lightning protections installed on their electrical systems.

The plan doesnt go into greater detail on what that would entail.

The Vineyard Gazette on Marthas Vineyard is a news partner of MassLive.com. To subscribe to the Vineyard Gazette, click here.
A Delta Airlines flight to New Orleans returned to Boston shortly after takeoff Sunday morning after a smoky odor was detected in the cabin, according to the airline company.

Flight DL1398 left Boston Logan Airport a little before 9 a.m. and was supposed to land in Louisiana just before 1 p.m., according to flight records. Instead, it returned to the airport around 9:35 a.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The Airbus A220 was carrying 87 passengers, three flight attendants and two pilots, Delta Airlines said. An emergency was declared so that the plane could get priority handling from air traffic control, and the plane was met with emergency response personnel.

"Our flight crew followed established procedures and returned to Boston safely. We sincerely apologize to our customers for the delay in their travels," Delta Airlines said in a statement.

The flights passengers traveled to New Orleans later that morning, the airline said.

The FAA said it will investigate the incident. No further information has been released.
A surprising obstacle could stand between Massachusetts leaders and the states climate goals: college campuses.

At a presentation this past week, Matthew Gorzkowicz, the secretary of the states Executive Office for Administration and Finance, said that nearly two thirds of all carbon emissions from state buildings come from college campuses.

In order for us to both tackle our deferred maintenance and meet our climate goals, we really need to focus on our higher ed campuses. Were simply not going to meet our climate goals as a state without decarbonizing our campuses and working towards that, Gorzkowicz said before members of the states Department of Higher Education board.

Of the 60 million square feet that the states Division of Capital Asset Management and Management manages, higher education buildings represent close to 50% or 30 million square feet, Gorzkowicz said.

Current mandates require the state to eliminate fossil fuel consumption and reduce carbon emissions from state buildings by 95% by 2050.

Many of the buildings on college campuses are aging past their functional lifespan and the amount of funding given to higher education institutions hasnt been able to keep pace with the growing deferred maintenance backlog, Gorzkowicz said.

Construction on higher education campuses in the state peaked in the 1970s.

Nationwide, higher education institutions spend an estimated $6 billion annually on energy with over 5 billion square feet of space, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. At the same time, on average, 30% of energy used in commercial buildings, including higher education buildings, is wasted, according to the department.

Bunker Hill Community College president Pam Eddinger referred to one of the main buildings on campus the 50-year-old disaster during an interview with MassLive last year.

New construction communicates to students that they are worthy.

Finally, I can see students studying in it and saying, I deserve this. I dont deserve to study in a dim hallway. And thats really powerful for me, Eddinger said.

Its ... partly environmental, but its architectural justice, Eddinger said.

What the state is doing about the problem

Following a report from the Higher Education Capital Working Group, a $2.5 billion bill, entitled An Act to Build Resilient Infrastructure to Generate Higher Education Transformation, and another $125 million from Gov. Maura Healeys budget have been proposed to address the deferred maintenance and decarbonization of college buildings.

This is a really thoughtful, rational approach to addressing a problem thats admittedly larger than this solves  but this is a huge swing at it," Chris Gabrieli, the Department of Higher Education board chairman, said at the Tuesday meeting.

The two investments would work in tandem but need to be approved separately. The budget process usually goes until July with the House and Senate proposing their budgets and ultimately coming to an agreement.

We refuse to kick the can down the road any longer when it comes to educating our kids and training our workers of tomorrow, Healey said in a January statement touting the proposal to modernize the states college campuses.

With these transformative infrastructure investments, we will give students a cutting-edge education in our affordable public universities and colleges, create thousands of good-paying jobs for our workers and keep our state economically competitive for years to come, Healey said at the time.

The bond bill would be referred to several committees, including the higher education and Ways and Means committees, and would need to go to the floor for a debate before going back to the Governors desk, Gorzkowicz said.

The funds from the legislation would be used for the creation of new cutting-edge labs, upgrading mental health facilities and building energy performance and replacing outdated HVAC systems and modernizing heating and cooling systems, Gorzkowicz said.

Smaller projects, like lab modernization, can be done in two years while larger capital projects may take four to five, according to the presentation.

The investment is the first significant effort in years to tackle the problems of deferred maintenance, decarbonization and modernization of our public higher ed facilities, Gorzkowicz said.

Dealing with deferred maintenance

Community colleges in Massachusetts had over a billion dollars in unaddressed deferred maintenance in 2022, according to a report by the Massachusetts Campus Debt Reveal Project.

The UMass system and state institutions, such as Bridgewater State University, have also been dealing with significant deferred maintenance challenges. The university has over $200 million in deferred maintenance, according to their president, Frederick Clark.

Aging infrastructure has been at the top of Springfield Technical Community Colleges President John Cook.

We have the largest community college campus that also has the largest amount of deferred maintenance. We have some very major facilities and infrastructure considerations that we contend with, Cook told MassLive during an interview last year.

Dealing with building issues is a constant and is something that requires continual nurturing to be sure that we stay on top of, he said.
President Donald Trump gestures as he walks across the South Lawn of the White House, Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Washington, after returning from a trip to Florida. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein) AP

Its rare to find a Republican member of Congress publicly speaking out against President Donald Trump and his policies.

One Democratic House member thinks theres a reason for why this isbecause Republican members of congress are fearful for their and their familys physical safety.

Republicans are terrified of crossing the 47th president, U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., said during a webinar hosted by journalist Sydney Blumenthal.

The GOP lawmakers are worried that such a move will hurt their political careers and could result in them receiving physical threats, Swalwell told Blumenthal.

Its more more personal, Swalwell said. Its their personal safety that theyre afraid of, and they have spouses and family members saying, Do not do this, its not worth it, it will change our lives forever. We will have to hire around-the-clock security. Life can be very uncomfortable for your children.

Swalwell also said that whenever Trump or his ally, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, tweets at someone over X or on Truth Social, their lives are turned upside down.

When he tweets at you, people make threats and you have to take people at their word, Swalwell said. And so that is a real thing that my colleagues struggle with.

Not all Republicans in Congress have backed away from criticizing Trump.

U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, offered a scathing rebuke against Trump on March 1 over the president and Vice President J.D. Vance berating Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

I am sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin, a threat to democracy and U.S. values around the world, Murkowski wrote on X.

U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., has also pushed back on some things the president has said, including a previous claim by Trump where he said Ukraine started the war between it and Russia, even though Russia was the country that invaded Ukraine when the conflict began in 2022.

I dont know his motives. Some people think hes doin' this for negotiating and maybe hell get a better deal. I dont know, Bacon said during a segment on 60 Minutes. All I know is what he says, and when he says that Russia is not the invader, that its Ukraines fault, thats just wrong.
Marie Guillou, front left, hugs and worships with a fellow congregant at the First Haitian Evangelical Church of Springfield, Sunday, January 26, 2025, in Springfield, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jessie Wardarski) AP

A civil rights group representing Haitian and Venezuelan immigrants is suing the Trump administration to block its decision to throw out humanitarian protections that allowed them to stay in the country.

The federal lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Boston, by the Boston-based Lawyers for Civil Rights, names President Donald Trump, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi L. Noem, and the agency she oversees, as defendants.

The civil rights group filed the lawsuit on behalf of three groups representing Haitian and Venezuelan migrants, and four pseudonymous people identified as Sydney, Marlene, Gustvao, and Natlaia Doe.

The administration moved last month to strip whats known as Temporary Protected Status for Haitians and Venezuelan immigrants, arguing that it is illegal and rooted in racial and national origin discrimination.

If the administrations decision is allowed to stand the impacted immigrants would lose their work permits and could be eligible to be removed from the country by August of this year, The Associated Press reported.

The Boston area, the civil rights group notes, is home to one of the largest Haitian populations in the country. The news sent shockwaves across the Bay State, where Haitians work in jobs across the economy, MassLive previously reported.

The humanitarian program is a critical lifeline for immigrants who have fled extreme violence, political upheaval, and natural disasters in their home countries, Mirian Albert, a senior attorney at Lawyers for Civil Rights, said in a statement.

The decision to undermine TPS for Haiti and Venezuela is driven by racial bias and has no basis in the realities these communities face. The Constitution prohibits government actions based on racial animus.

In a statement announcing the policy shift, Noem argued that the extension to February 2026 for Haitians authorized by the former Biden administration was far longer than justified or necessary.

In January, the Homeland Security Department cut short a similar extension for Venezuelans with temporary protected status.

We are returning integrity to the TPS system, which has been abused and exploited by illegal aliens for decades. President Trump and Secretary Noem are returning TPS to its original status: temporary, Noem said through a spokesperson.

The U.S. government first granted temporary protected status to Haitian migrants in 2010 after the Caribbean island nation was devastated by an earthquake. It has repeatedly been extended since then. The Trump administration attempted to revoke the status in 2018, but a court blocked it.

The former Biden administration granted temporary protected status to 472,000 Venezuelans who fled their home country in 2023. That came in addition to the more than 242,000 who were previously covered under TPS grants in 2021 and 2022, according to The Associated Press.

In their lawsuit, the civil rights group argues that the federal law authorizing the status does not allow any president to revoke an extension thats already been granted.

Some TPS holders, including Sydney and Marlene Doe, who are named in the lawsuit, have lived in the country for years. Sydney Doe currently works as a real estate broker, while Marley Doe is a certified nursing assistant.

Haitians and Venezuelans with TPS have been integral to our economy and societyfilling critical labor gaps, starting businesses, and building strong communities, Victoria Miranda, a senior attorney at Lawyers for Civil Rights, said in a statement.
FILE - In this Aug. 21, 2008 file photo, the Chevy Cobalt is seen on the assembly line at the Lordstown Assembly Plant, in Lordstown, Ohio. The U.S. governments road safety agency is investigating complaints of fuel leaks in older Chevrolet Cobalt small cars and HHR wagons. The probe covers more than 614,000 Cobalts from the 2008 to 2010 model years and HHRs from 2008 and 2009. (AP Photo/Ron Schwane, File) AP

By Bonnie Berkowitz, Dylan Moriarty, and Luis Melgar

To understand how President Trumps proposed tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada could rattle the auto industry and hike up car prices, you can follow the journey of just one auto part.

Carmakers have enjoyed free trade with Canada since 1965 and Mexico since 1994, so they have set up production and distribution chains without worrying about borders.

Hundreds of billions of dollars worth of raw materials, parts and vehicles ping-pong in and out of all three countries every year - sometimes multiple times - before finished cars wind up in dealers showrooms.

Analysts, researchers, manufacturers and trade groups say a tariff levied at every crossing - the plan the president has said would take effect Tuesday - could raise the price of each new car by thousands of dollars and scramble long-standing supply chains.

You can see the problem in miniature by watching the possible path of an ingot of Quebec aluminum as it bounces across borders and ends up in a Chevrolet Silverado.

That piece is just one of 30,000 parts, give or take, in every gasoline-powered car.

Car companies make things where they can get the best price, the best performance, reliable delivery and the best workforce, said Peter Frise, an engineering professor at the University of Windsors Automotive Research Center.

They source much of their aluminum from Quebec because smelting it requires a lot of power, and the provinces hydroelectric energy provides a huge amount of cheap, reliable, safe, zero-pollution electric power, Frise said.

(Washington Post graphic) The Washington Post

A huge amount of automotive steel comes from Pennsylvania, which has the natural resources to produce it, including iron ore, timber, natural gas and limestone, as well as rivers to transport it.

Thats where a steel spring could begin a path that ends in a Ford F-150, the best-selling vehicle in the United States.

The vast majority of casting and molding car parts happens in Mexico, said Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers Association, which represents Canadian suppliers. Heating and pouring materials into molds is a fairly simple but labor-intensive process, he said, and Mexico has cheaper labor than its northern neighbors.

Those parts need to be refined by skilled machinists to a manufacturers exact specifications. That work is mostly done in and around the high-tech auto centers of Detroit and Ontario. For example, the aluminum gear differential housing shown in the first map needs to last for 150,000 miles, Volpe said, and must be machined to a precise tolerance of five microns.

Groups of finished parts are assembled into larger components at another stop before moving on to an assembly plant, where they are built into cars and trucks.

Auto parts travel in similar chains all around North America.

(Washington Post graphic) The Washington Post

In 2024, the United States exported $105 billion in automotive vehicles, parts and engines to Canada and Mexico, according an analysis of Census Bureau data. Thats 62 percent of all U.S. exports in that category.

And half of all U.S. imports of those goods came from Canada and Mexico, totaling $238 billion.

International supply chains are not always ideal, said Susan Helper, an economics professor at Case Western Reserve University who was senior adviser for industrial strategy in the Biden White House.

They can be less resilient, as we learned when the pandemic disrupted the flow of goods from other countries, and they may rely on production in places with fewer protections for workers and the environment.

Helper thinks tariffs can be useful in some situations, such as for national security reasons, but the current rollout is a particularly chaotic way of doing trade policy.

There certainly is going to be a ton of disruption because these tariffs are announced with very little notice, she said. Theyre sort of on-again, off-again, and companies, particularly in the auto industry, crave regulatory certainty. This is not that.

Exactly what that disruption looks like depends on the details of the tariffs and whether Canada and Mexico retaliate.

There could be waivers for some goods and businesses, or duty drawbacks, which refund domestic parts that are imported back. For instance, a car imported from Canada that contains 40 percent U.S.-made parts would only pay the tariff on the 60 percent. Trumps most recent plans dont include duty drawbacks.

Theres so much unknown about these tariffs: when they will occur, how long they will be in place, will there be any exclusions, said Jennifer Safavian, president and CEO of Autos Drive America, a trade association that represents international automakers who have U.S. operations. So its hard to get any real numbers or estimates on the actual impact. But will they have an impact on the auto industry? Yes, the answer is yes they will.

Not every automaker would feel the same pain.

Each manufacturer operates a little differently, and each car model contains a different percentage of imported parts that could be subject to the new tariffs.

(Washington Post graphic) The Washington Post

A carmaker could import more cars from a country that doesnt face U.S. tariffs, but its always more economical to manufacture where your customers are, Safavian said, which is why so many international car companies have factories in the United States in the first place.

Moving the entire production of a line of cars from one country to another, however, would typically take at least two years.

The tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods are part of a series Trump has announced that could affect the auto industry. New import taxes on steel and aluminum are scheduled to take effect March 12; a broader tariff on automobiles was announced for April.

If the tariffs are long-lasting, carmakers would need to figure out how to pare border-hopping out of their supply chains, or at least add it as a new factor into their calculations.

If manufacturers can save 8 cents on a part by buying it from a factory in London, Ontario, versus a factory in Pigs Knuckle, Arkansas, they will buy it in London, Frise said. If you want them to buy it in Pigs Knuckle, okay. But it will cost more. And you think, 8 cents, who cares? But 8 cents distributed over the whole damn car  it starts to add up.
Veteran Massachusetts political operative Roger Lau has been named the new executive director of the Democratic National Committee. (Photo via State House News Service) State House News Service

Roger Lau, an experienced local political operative who has worked on behalf of several Massachusetts elected officials, was named Monday as executive director of the Democratic National Committee.

Lau over the years has racked up experience working for Bay State and national Democrats who had their eyes on the U.S. presidency, including John Kerry, Elizabeth Warren, Hillary Clinton and Kamala Harris. In his new role, hell try to help the party strategize and rebound from setbacks it suffered in the 2024 elections.

A 2000 University of Massachusetts Amherst graduate, Lau began his career on John Kerrys 2004 presidential campaign.

While in college, he responded to a classified ad about an internship in Kerrys office, obtained the position and said that was where my love for politics began.

His resume includes stints as district director for former Congressman Marty Meehan, campaign manager for Niki Tsongas, state director for Hillary Clintons 2008 campaign for president, manager of Mike Capuanos 2009 U.S. Senate campaign, campaign manager for Congressman Richard Neal in 2010, and campaign manager for Warrens 2020 run for president.

Recently, he was senior advisor to the Kamala Harris Victory Fund and deputy executive director at the DNC.

Announcing his new post by email Monday, Lau said he was fed up with watching the Trump administration trying to dismantle our democracy. He asked for donations to the DNC and for people to share your feedback - and dont hold back. The feedback would inform a report he plans to share with Ken Martin, the new chair of the DNC, on ways to improve the committee, he wrote.

Lau, who attended Bronx High School of Science, reflected on getting his start.

Im the son of working-class immigrants who came to this country in search of a better life. They worked two jobs each  waiting tables, selling souvenirs and sewing clothes to support me and my siblings, Lau wrote in his email. I havent lived the easiest life or taken the most traditional path like others in politics, but after a few stumbles as a young adult, I got up, dusted myself off, and worked hard to get my GED.
Local political groups plan to rally Tuesday to protest actions taken by the Trump administration.

The protests are part of nationwide efforts to challenge what activists view as unconstitutional actions.

On Tuesday at 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., on the day when Trump makes his first address to Congress, local groups will rally and hold banners and signs at the 1-91 overpasses in Longmeadow (Bark Haul Road) and Holyoke (Mountain Park Road).
Huntington Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief John McVeigh with Duke, the departments first responder therapy dog. (AMY PORTER / THE WESTFIELD NEWS) The Westfield News

HUNTINGTON  The Huntington Fire Department has two new canine members. Duke, a 3-year-old golden retriever owned by Assistant Fire Chief John McVeigh is training as a therapy dog for first responders. Luna, a 7-month-old Belgian Malinois owned by Firefighter Nicholas Perry is training for search and rescue. Both firefighters intend to make the dogs available to the wider community once fully trained and certified.

The training of both dogs is backed by the Huntington Fire Association and the Fire Department. This project has my full support, said Huntington Fire Chief Joshua Ellinger.
A big week ahead for Mount St Michael student Dana Carney as she takes part in the BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamp. The third year student will take part in the bootcamp which runs from today Monday, March 3 until Thursday, March 6, at Nova UCD.

Now in its 16th year, the bootcamp, which was set up by BT Ireland under its custodianship of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (YSTE) in 2010, supports BTYSTE finalists with developing their project ideas into commercial enterprises under the guidance of BTYSTE alumni, BT Ireland mentors and expert judges.

This year, BT Ireland celebrates 25 years as organiser of the YSTE and first introduced the bootcamp as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance and evolve the exhibition under its custodianship.

READ MORE: Patients in Mayo can now access all their health information in new HSE app

In the last sixteen years, the bootcamp has provided almost 500 students with skills to turn their project ideas into commercial enterprises.

This year, thirty students representing 12 counties from across the island of Ireland are participating in the Bootcamp. The students will take part in a four-day programme which includes workshops on business development, marketing and commercialisation. They will also have the opportunity to meet BTYSTE alumni who themselves have launched successful enterprises.

On the final day, the students will pitch their project to an expert panel of judges.

Judges this year include Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland, Dr Tony Scott, co-founder of the BTYSTE, Anne-Marie Turley, Head of Fintech, Finance & Cybersecurity at Enterprise Ireland, and Brian ODonovan, Work and Technology Correspondent at RTE.

Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland, said: We are pleased to welcome the participating students to the 2025 BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamp at Nova UCD, our event partner. The Bootcamp which we developed in 2010, has been a highlight for BT Ireland for years, and its amazing to see thirty of the countrys brightest young minds develop their ideas with STEM experts.

"While this is an exciting event for us, it also marks the final Bootcamp we will deliver. It has been an honour to support 500 young people over the years in developing their business skills, with many making significant impacts in STEM and business.

"Id like to thank my colleagues and the Nova UCD team for their support, and I hope all participants will have an unforgettable week.

Dr Tony Scott, co-founder of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, said: "The level of talent that we see at Bootcamp every year is fantastic, and I have no doubt that the 2025 participants will go on to make a big impact on their futures.

"While BT Irelands journey with the YSTE will conclude this week, the organisations legacy with the exhibition will forever endure.

Since the Bootcamp began, several participants have gone on to create successful enterprises, including Protex AI, betterexaminations.ie, and Evervault.
Photo credit: MLB Network

The Gulf of Mexico, Gulf of America, whatever you want to call it, we can all agree with Atlanta Braves announcer Brandon Gaudin that its the Gulf of something.

During the Braves 11-1 win over the New York Yankees Sunday afternoon, the team welcomed VP and general manager of its Spring Training facilities, Mike Dunn to the broadcast. Gaudin asked Dunn to sell the audience on visiting the CoolToday Park in North Port, Florida.

Brandon Gaudins eyes when he hears Gulf of Mexico  pic.twitter.com/bkWFVKUF3O  Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) March 3, 2025



Were 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, Dunn said toward the end of his lengthy list of things to do in the area. But the real star of Dunns sales pitch was Gaudins eyes popping at the mention of Gulf of Mexico.

For more than 500 years, saying Gulf of Mexico would not have garnered that type of reaction. But less than 100 days into Donald Trumps second term in the White House, the president made sure to change that. Last month, Trump renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America in an attempt to promote Americas greatness, while simultaneously promoting identity politics.



Later in the broadcast, Gaudin had a chance to put his own spin on the Gulf of Mexico, as the body of water was displayed while coming back from a commercial break. And to avoid taking any sides, Gaudin hilariously hit the audience with Gulf of something. A true professional.
A TYRONE-based engineering company has been awarded the contract to construct the 31.5 million N59 Newport to Derradda road project in west Mayo.

Mayo County Council has awarded a contract to Fox Building & Engineering Ltd for the construction of the N59 Derradda to Newport Road Project to the north of Newport town. The construction of the 31.5 million project is expected to commence in March 2025 with a 32-month construction period.

The project was suspended last summer after Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) requested the Mayo regional design office suspend the tendering process due to a 'funding issue'.

READ: 'Boxer' Moran to turn the sod on flood relief scheme in Mayo town

There were fears last year that the project would not go ahead but it was retendered and the contract was awarded to the Omagh-based company.

This strategically important N59 road scheme is 5.1 km in length and comprises both on-line road widening and off-line road construction, with funding being provided by Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

Enhancements to sections of the existing Great Western Greenway have been incorporated in this scheme with the construction of approximately 1km of off-road cycleway/walkway as well as a signature Greenway bridge structure over the N59 carriageway realignment (Kiltarnaght Greenway Overbridge).

Cathaoirleach of the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District, Cllr Sean Carey welcomed the contract signing saying:

This is a great day for the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District. This isnt just about roads and tarmac; it is about improving the fabric of our community.

This project will have a dramatic benefit to not just commuters, but for our residents, farmers, businesspeople and for our tourism industry across the entire municipal district.

This scheme will breathe new life into our towns and villages and connect us all together more effectively and strengthen our sense of community, he said.

Chief Executive of Mayo County Council, Kevin Kelly added: The N59 is a vital artery for Mayo and this upgrade will deliver safer and more efficient journeys for all road users.

This new scheme will not only address long term safety concerns and improve traffic flow, but it will also lay the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and improved quality of life for the region.

I look forward to seeing the positive impact that this development will have on the county for generations to come.

Once completed, the N59 Derradda to Newport Road Project is expected to have several key benefits, including improving the reliability and climate resilience of the N59 road with new pavement construction, construction and configuration of culvert crossings, improvement of road drainage and other landscaping, environmental and mitigation works.
by Ray Schultz , March 2, 2025

Hearst UK has formed a strategic partnership with Brand Metrics, a provider of brand lift measurement technology.

The Brand Metrics platform will be integrated across Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Mens Health, ELLE, Harpers Bazaar and other Hearst UK sites. Hearst will be able to measure campaigns at scale based on four metrics awareness, consideration, preference and action intent.

We recognize the significance of brand lift data in facilitating meaningful conversations with partners, says Ben Chesters, managing director Clients at Hearst UK. "We are excited to collaborate with Brand Metrics to scale our measurement capabilities and make campaign effectiveness an even greater part of our sales narrative.
A 70-year-old mans life was saved with a successful endovascular repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm, similar to the procedure done for actor Rajinikanth.

  Trusted Source

'Rajinikanth surgery' for a 70-yr-old patient at Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital in Madurai; Doctors perform endovascular repair successfully



Go to source Trusted Source

Did You Know?

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are more likely to develop if you're over 60, a smoker, have high blood pressure, or are of Caucasian ethnicity. #medindia #abdomen #aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are more likely to develop if you're over 60, a smoker, have high blood pressure, or are of Caucasian ethnicity. #medindia #abdomen #aneurysm

Press Conference on Successful EVAR Procedure

Rajinikanth surgery for a 70-yr-old patient at Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital in Madurai; Doctors perform endovascular repair successfully - (https://www.lotustimes.org/2025/03/01/rajinikanth-surgery-for-a-70-yr-old-patient-at-meenakshi-super-speciality-hospital-in-madurai-doctors-perform-endovascular-repair-successfully/)

Doctors at Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital in Madurai successfully carried out anon a 70-year-old man diagnosed with an, a life-threatening bulge in the main blood vessel of his abdomen that could have ruptured at any moment, risking his life ().In October 2024, a minimally invasive endovascular repair was successfully performed on a male patient from Mudukalathur, similar to the procedure done for superstar Rajinikanth at a private hospital in Chennai the previous year.A press conference was held in Madurai on February 28th, 2025, where the cardiology team and vascular experts discussed the successful(EVAR) performed on a male patient at Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital. The media briefing was led by Dr. R. Sivakumar, Head of the Department, Institute of Cardiac Sciences, along with Dr. Prabhu Kumarappan Chidambaram, vascular surgeon, Dr. N. Ganesan, senior consultant, Institute of Cardiac Sciences, Dr. M. Sampath Kumar, senior consultant, Dr. Selvamani, senior consultant, Dr. Jeyapandian, senior consultant, Dr. Thomas Xavier, associate consultant, and Dr. S. Kumar, Head of the Department, Cardiac Anaesthesiology.At the press meet, the medical team shared, We know actor Rajinikanth underwent a similar surgery in a Chennai hospital last year. Our patient received the same procedure, and hes now doing well, attending follow-up appointments. This is an endovascular repair, and the advanced EVAR technique used at our hospital offers a major advantageonly local anesthesia was required. We also used specialized closure devices at the groin entry points. The senior patient has completed his three-month follow-up and is now back to normal.Dr. Sivakumar and Dr. Prabhu explained that the patient arrived at the hospital with severe abdominal pain. After a thorough diagnosis, it was discovered that he had a large and dangerous bulge in his abdominal aorta, measuring 7.2 cm."Thanks to the advanced treatment facilities available at Meenakshi Super Speciality Hospital in Madurai, a precise endovascular repair was successfully performed," Dr. Prabhu added.Source-Lotustimes.org
Photo credit: ESPN

Shannon Sharpe used a hypothetical Kevin Durant trade proposal to invoke Donald Trump berating Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House last week.

We expected Saturday Night Live to cosplay Trumps combative White House meeting with Zelensky. But did anyone expect Sharpe to give us a sampling of a reenactment Monday morning on ESPNs First Take? Probably not.

It began during a discussion with Stephen A. Smith about whether the Oklahoma City Thunder should make a play at reuniting with Durant this offseason. Sharpe said the trade discussion should start with Jalen Williams, and maybe even Chet Holmgren, which prompted Smith to say, stay your ass in Arizona and keep on losing.

Im gonna do you like President Trump did President Zelensky. You in no position to bargainyou need to say thank you. Thank me right now.  Shannon Sharpe  pic.twitter.com/qbo4eGWukL  Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) March 3, 2025



We didnt call you, you called us, Sharpe said as he continued the roleplaying. Im gonna do you like President Trump did President Zelensky. You in no position to bargain, Okay? I just want you to know. You in no position to bargain. You need to say thank you. Say thank you right now.

Trump, Zelensky and Vice President JD Vance clashed in a fiery back-and-forth Friday afternoon at the White House over ending Ukraines three-year defensive war against Russia. In a discussion meant to promote peace, Zelensky found himself ambushed by Trump and Vance as they berated the President of Ukraine for a lack of gratitude on live television.

The exchange has been representative of a political divide, with some Trump supporters praising it as a display of American nationalism. While others were embarrassed by the showdown, criticizing Trump and Vance blaming the victim for their suffering.

Sharpe has been known to craft some pretty bizarre analogies and references. This White House exchange dominated the news cycle over the weekend, so the reference might be more polarizing than it is bizarre. But if Stephen A. Smith isnt always going to stick to sports, why should Sharpe?
Army Lt. Gen. Telita Crosland, the Defense Health Agency's top official, retired last week, according to a surprise announcement from the Pentagon on Friday.

Dr. Stephen Ferrara, acting assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said Crosland, who had served as the agency's director for two years, was "beginning her retirement" effective Friday. No reason was given for her departure; Crosland had been scheduled to speak Monday at the AMSUS Society of Federal Health Professionals' annual meeting in National Harbor, Maryland.

Her departure follows the high-profile firings last month of top military leaders, including Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. "CQ" Brown, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. Jim Slife, and the services' top attorneys.

Read Next: Fear and Chaos Hit Military Families After Sudden Firings of Top Leaders

"I want to thank Lt. Gen. Crosland for her dedication to the nation, to the Military Health System, and to Army Medicine for the past 32 years," Ferrara said in a statement.

Crosland graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York, in 1989 and earned her medical degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences before embarking on a career as a family medicine physician.

She was the fourth director of the Defense Health Agency and the third Black woman to reach the rank of lieutenant general in the Army.

When she assumed the role of DHA director, she pledged to focus on serving patients, creating a Defense Department medical system that best served active-duty members and their families.

Under her watch, the DHA completed the rollout of its MHS Genesis electronic health records system, a $5.5 billion program that provided and managed a new medical records system built to be interoperable with the Department of Veterans Affairs system.

The DHA also consolidated the organization's 20 regional medical markets into nine networks led by a general or flag officer who has responsibilities for both the service medical command duties -- taking care of active-duty personnel -- and the DHA, which manages hospitals, training, supplies, procurement, and the Tricare health program for military dependents and retirees.

The news also follows reports of short- or understaffed military health facilities including Naval Hospital Bremerton, Washington, which planned to transfer roughly 700 Medicare-eligible internal medicine patients to civilian providers since shortages left the clinic manned with one physician for 2,200 beneficiaries, according to the Kitsap Sun.

Other hospitals, like Naval Hospital Okinawa, also have been chronically understaffed, resulting in stress for military personnel and families.

And last month, deferred maintenance at the system's premier medical facility, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland -- where President Donald Trump is scheduled to receive his annual physical next month -- caused flooding and other system failures that delayed surgeries and sent patients elsewhere.

Since Jan. 1, patients who use the Tricare health program also have experienced delays in specialty referrals and care, while some providers still have not been paid in more than eight weeks following a changeover in Tricare regional contract management companies and payment processors in the Tricare East and West Regions.

As a result of those problems, Crosland issued a letter Feb. 3 to all Tricare beneficiaries saying the DHA had taken a number of steps to fix the issues and aimed to insulate patients from the turmoil.

"Individuals who need health care should get that care regardless of TriWest's ability to manage the process," Crosland wrote, referring to the Tricare West regional contractor, which assumed management of the West Region on Jan. 1.

According to Ferrara, Dr. David Smith, who served as assistant secretary of defense for health affairs in 2017 and from 2021 to 2022, will serve as acting DHA director.

Military.com reached out to Crosland on Monday for comment. She said she had nothing more to add than what had been released.

Related: Tricare to Allow Patients in Tricare West Region to Receive Specialty Care Without Preapproval
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Monday announced that he is renaming Fort Moore -- the name chosen to honor decorated Vietnam Army commander Hal Moore and his wife Julia -- less than two years after the base was scrubbed of its previous name honoring a Confederate general.

The Army will return the famed Georgia base to Fort Benning, the name originally chosen in honor of Confederate Henry Benning. However, to keep the name and adhere to a law passed by Congress to eliminate names honoring Confederates, Hegseth chose a World War I junior noncommissioned officer, Cpl. Fred G. Benning, who served with valor and earned the Distinguished Service Cross, as the base's new namesake.

The latest renaming comes after President Donald Trump opposed a bipartisan push by Congress during his first term to remove the names of Confederates, who fought against the U.S. during the Civil War, from bases and military property. Trump vetoed the legislation but Congress overrode the veto, and Trump has now started to roll back the renaming of nine bases in the U.S.

Read Next: Defense Health Agency Director Ends 32-Year Career with Unceremonious, Abrupt Retirement

The move Monday by Hegseth comes after the defense secretary ordered Fort Liberty, North Carolina, to return to Fort Bragg -- though like the former Fort Moore, the new name honors Pfc. Roland Bragg, a World War II paratrooper who earned the Silver Star while serving with the 17th Airborne Division, instead of its original Confederate namesake,

The Georgia base was named in 2023 after Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, a Korean and Vietnam War veteran, known best for commanding 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, in the Battle of Ia Drang Valley in 1965, which was among the first major engagements of the Vietnam War.

The battle was immortalized in the book and movie "We Were Soldiers," and saw the first major use of contemporary air assault tactics, including soldiers being swiftly inserted into battle and the wounded being rescued with helicopters. Moore died in 2017.

He was also a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross.

Moore's wife, Julia Moore, also served as the base's namesake. She transformed the military's approach to notifying the families of fallen service members.

Her push for a more compassionate process led to the requirement that notifications be delivered in person by uniformed officers, replacing the cold, impersonal telegrams of previous wars. She died in 2004.

Hal Moore was a trailblazer in pushing for racial integration in the Army, advocating for Black soldiers to serve alongside their white counterparts at a time of deep-seated resistance within the ranks. His tenure in South Korea as commander of the 7th Infantry Division laid the groundwork for what would later become the Army's equal opportunity policies.

Benning is the center of gravity for much of the Army's ground combat training, serving as the home for basic training for infantry, cavalry scouts and tankers -- as well as the service's legendary Ranger school.

In the 2021 defense budget, Congress mandated the renaming of nine U.S. military installations that bore Confederate names, a move driven by efforts to remove tributes to those who fought against the Union and on the side of slavery.

A commission of civilian and retired military officials overseeing the renaming process made clear in its report that it deliberately avoided selecting new names that coincided with the Confederate honorees being replaced.

Cpl. Benning served in the 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Division, American Expeditionary Forces, in France, according to a Pentagon news release.

On Oct. 9, 1918, his platoon commander was killed and two senior noncommissioned officers were wounded. He earned the Distinguished Service Cross for leading the remaining 20 soldiers in his unit to capture an objective during the Meuse-Argonne offensive -- a significant battle on the Western Front that stretched to the end of the war in which some 26,000 Americans were killed alongside 35,000 French troops.

The Army initially established Camp Benning in 1918. Henry Benning, the original Confederate honoree, said in a 1861 speech that his motivation to fight was squarely on preventing the freedom of slaves.

"If things are allowed to go on as they are, it is certain that slavery is to be abolished," Henry Benning said. "By the time the North shall have attained the power, the Black race will be in a large majority, and then we will have Black governors, Black legislatures, Black juries, Black everything."

Related: Fort Moore Was Named After My Parents. A Letter Mom Wrote Shows Why It Shouldn't Go Back to Benning
MINNEAPOLIS  A Minneapolis man who allegedly expressed admiration for the truck attack in New Orleans that killed 14 people has been accused of trying to join the Islamic State group, federal prosecutors announced Friday.

Abdisatar Ahmed Hassan, 22, made his first court appearance on a charge of attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. He was ordered held without bail until a detention hearing March 5.

The chief federal defender for Minnesota, Katherian Roe, said her office will represent him but declined to comment on the case.

The criminal complaint against Hassan, a naturalized U.S. citizen, alleges that he tried twice in December to travel from Minnesota to Somalia to join the group but did not succeed. It says he claimed he was going to visit family but had none there.

Prosecutors said the FBIs investigation established that Hassan expressed public support for the group in multiple posts on social media and also praised Shamsud-Din Jabbar on TikTok over the New Orleans attack.

Investigators say Jabbar, a 42-year-old Texas native and U.S. Army veteran, posted videos professing allegiance to the Islamic State group and an intent to harm others before he plowed a pickup through a crowd of New Years revelers on Bourbon Street on Jan. 1. Police fatally shot him during an exchange of gunfire at the scene.

Hassan also allegedly posted a video last week, of himself driving while holding an Islamic State group flag inside his vehicle. The FBI said it also observed him driving with the flag Wednesday. He was arrested on Thursday.

The charging documents also say police in New York notified the FBI last May that Hassan had made social media posts in support of the Somali group al-Shabab. An affidavit from an agent says investigators spotted al-Shabab and Islamic State group propaganda videos on his TikTok and Facebook accounts. It also alleges that he exchanged messages with a Facebook account that encourages Somali-speaking individuals to travel and fight on behalf of the Islamic State group.

FBI agents were watching when Hassan went to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport on Dec. 13, authorities say. He allegedly tried to check in for a flight to Somalia but left after an airline employee told him he lacked required travel documents.

He allegedly tried again Dec. 29. Agents saw him board a flight to Chicago, where Customs and Border Protection officers interviewed him extensively before his scheduled flight to Ethiopia but did not detain him. He missed the flight and returned to Minneapolis, the affidavit says.

Hassan is the latest of several Minnesotans suspected of leaving or trying to leave the U.S. to join the Islamic State group in recent years, along with thousands of fighters from other countries. In 2016 nine Minnesota men were sentenced on federal charges of conspiring to join the group, and a Minnesotan who actually fought for the group in Iraq was sentenced last June to 10 years in prison.
A spat between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has come as a windfall for the Kremlin, raising Moscow's hopes for a halt in U.S. assistance to Kyiv even as Russian troops seek to extend their gains in Ukraine.

The disastrous Oval Office meeting on Friday that exploded in acrimony when Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelenskyy of refusing to negotiate peace and berated him for being ingrateful for U.S. support so far has cast doubts over the future of U.S.-Ukrainian relations.

The Kremlin was quick to cast the White House encounter as a proof of Zelenskyys reluctance to negotiate an end to the three-year conflict.

What happened in the White House on Friday certainly showed how difficult it will be to get on the path to a Ukrainian settlement, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. "The Kyiv regime and Zelenskyy do not want peace, they want the war to continue.

He claimed that the White House blowup has proven President Vladimir Putin's statements about Kyiv's refusal to hold peace talks. Putin, who sent troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, has declared his openness for peace but demanded that Ukraine abandon its bid to join NATO and withdraw its troops from the four regions that Russia illegally annexed in 2022 but never fully captured.

President Putin was right when he said that despite the openness of the Russian side to the negotiation process, these good intentions run into the unwillingness of the Kyiv regime to maintain such dynamics, Peskov said in a conference call with reporters. We saw this to the full extent in Washington. In this situation, of course, Washingtons efforts and Moscows readiness alone will clearly not be enough, a crucial element is missing.

Denigrating Zelenskyy

Peskov said that Putin watched the unprecedented White House encounter and took what happened into account."

"As a minimum, Zelenskyy has shown an utter lack of diplomatic skills, Peskov told reporters.

Commenting on the Ukrainian leaders refusal to recognize any loss of territory, Peskov said it reflected his reluctance to recognize the battlefield situation. You have to be blind not to see it, he declared.

Other Russian officials were even less diplomatic.

Dmitry Medvedev, a deputy head of Russias Security Council chaired by Putin, relished what he called a fierce scolding and a slap in the face for Zelenskyy and voiced hope for a quick end to U.S. military aid for Ukraine.

Pro-Kremlin media and commentators derided Zelenskyys attire and his negotiating style and described the meeting as a disaster for Ukraine.

Trump wiped his feet on Zelenskyy and Ukraine like a doormat, commented hardline ideologue Alexander Dugin. Zelenskyy was thrown out of the White House like a garbage alley cat, gloated pro-Kremlin military analyst Igor Korotchenko.

Russias flagship Sunday news show dedicated more than a third of its airtime  almost an hour  to the Trump-Zelenskyy clash, with anchor Dmitry Kiselyov mocking Zelenskyy for sporting his usual military-style garb at the White House and saying the Ukrainian leader looked like a loser and made a scene in the Oval Office.

Assailing Europe

Kiselyov blasted EU leaders for seeking to prolong the fighting and suggested that a rift between the U.S. and its European allies could potentially erode the influence of NATO and the EU on the global arena.

Right now everything is being decided within a new big triangle -- Russia-China-the United States. It is in this triangle where a new world order will be developed, Kiselyov mused, dismissing Sundays summit of European allies in London as almost clandestine and pointless.

Commenting on the London summit, Peskov said it reflected the European reluctance to negotiate peace.

There is a group of countries that represent the party of war, which are declaring their readiness to continue to support Ukraine in a sense of supporting the war and ensuring the continuation of the hostilities, Peskov said. There were statements made about the need to urgently provide an increased level of funding for Ukraine  clearly not for a peace plan but for the continuation of military operations.

He added that European leaders will face a daunting task of trying to mend a rift between Washington and Kyiv.

Its clear that someone will have to make a considerable effort in terms of dialogue with Washington in order to somehow neutralize the probably unpleasant aftertaste that probably remained in the White House after talking with Zelenskyy, he said.

Medvedev, a former liberal-leaning Russian president who has become one of the most hawkish Kremlin officials, denounced the London summit as the anti-Trump Russophobic coven, declaring that they want to continue the war till the last Ukrainian!

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov assailed Kyivs European allies for defying Trumps push for peace and described Europe as a birthplace of conflict. During the past 500 years, all tragedies of the world originated in Europe or were linked to European politics, he said in televised comments.

Lavrov, who has previously warned that Moscow wouldnt accept peacekeepers from any NATO members in case of a potential peace deal, has dismissed French and British proposals to deploy such a force as impudent. This plan for the deployment of peacekeepers to Ukraine is the continuation of efforts to incite the Kyiv regime to wage a war against us, he said.

Russia to press on with military action

Peskov emphasized that after Trump's call with Putin last month and U.S.-Russian talk in Saudi Arabia, Moscow will continue negotiations with Washington on normalizing ties, focusing on efforts to ensure the normal operations of the embassies after years of expulsions of diplomats.

At the same time, the Russian side will continue the special military operation to achieve the goals that have been set from the start, Peskov said, using the Kremlin's term for the war in Ukraine.

Many commentators in Moscow said that Europe wouldn't be able to provide Ukraine with enough weapons if the U.S. cuts military aid.

Europe says it will never abandon Ukraine, but it lacks resources to replace America, Fyodor Lukyanov, the head of Moscow-based Council for Foreign and Defense Policies, observed in an analysis.

An attempt at peaceful settlement has been thwarted, Lukyanov said. It paves the way for the next stage of using force, probably in a tougher way."
Editor's Note: Military.com is not publishing the name of this writer due to concerns about retaliation against their serving spouse.

The opinions expressed in this op-ed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Military.com. If you would like to submit your own commentary, please send your article to opinions@military.com for consideration.

There is fear, chaos and sadness overwhelming military families behind the scenes. It's being driven by the sudden firing of senior military officers, officers who have demonstrated they care deeply about the community.

Military families deserve qualified leaders to guide our force, and firing leaders like Gen. "CQ" Brown, Gen. James Slife and Adm. Lisa Franchetti without justification is harmful to our force. We deserve a reason. Sudden firings without justifications create an atmosphere of mistrust.

This loss of stability will have long-term effects on the retention and recruitment of the force. We rely on each other and our government leaders to provide direction and security. What is happening now does the opposite. Military families wonder how they will keep a roof over their heads if they suddenly lose their jobs as well. I worry about the future and how this affects our country's standing on the international stage. This chaotic atmosphere does nothing to build a secure, lethal warfighter. This is destabilizing to the force overall.

Part of this is tied to what these leaders have meant to the community.

Brown and his wife Sharene are well-loved by military families, and Ive been personally touched by their work for our community.

I have never met Mrs. Brown in person, but during the difficult transition with the Air Forces Exceptional Family Member Program, which is a Department of Defense program for family members who have special needs, to MyVector, I began posting on social media about the backlog of assignments in the Air Force Personnel Centers Central Cell. I wanted to bring awareness to leadership about the problem and help other Air Force and Space Force families struggling with the same thing we were experiencing.

My service member's assignment, a boarded position, was sitting with no movement, and we were getting down to weeks before our scheduled move. Shareen Brown responded to my post, saying, "Email me here and let me see if I can help you." I was shocked to have her respond to me on social media, and I sent an email to her right away.

I wrote about how this backlog was affecting all families, and she responded, "What is YOUR story?" I hated that because I hoped to help everyone in the same position as us, but it showed how much she cared for each individual as well. Maybe she had the intuition to know that there was a greater problem that she probably couldn't solve right then, but she could help in a small way. Once I told her my story, she reached out to Central Cell on our behalf and just asked about our assignment. The next thing we knew, our assignment was approved in enough time for us to get what we needed for our move, and we were off.

I am incredibly grateful for what she did for us and have never forgotten. The Browns are the literal best among us. They take the time to listen to military families and use that for good.

I could list all of their accomplishments, like championing Five & Thrive and working with the Joining Forces initiative, which was unpaid volunteer work, but anyone can Google that and find even more than I can list. I have watched how Sharene Brown carries herself with grace and compassion, speaking up for military families time and time again. I also watched the way her husband cared well for all airmen as the chief of the Air Force and later for all service members as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs.

Something that stands out to me is how they served as a team, and their willingness to talk about their experience with being a part of the Exceptional Family Member Program and how that affected their family. Not many leaders in their positions share what that is like or have that experience.

Their efforts contributed to greater morale among the ranks, because when military families are taken care of, we all know that our service members can focus more on the mission, thereby increasing their warfighting capabilities. Brown's sudden and premature firing feels like a gut punch to military families, especially since we do not understand why he was fired. He was only the second-ever Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs to serve, and he was fired coincidentally during Black History Month.

Behind the scenes, I am watching spouses lament what is happening, between the firings of leaders and of military spouses who happen to be probationary employees with the federal government.

The military is apolitical and should remain apolitical. Our service members serve regardless of the presidents political party. Their obligation is to the Constitution and their country. Their service should not be in jeopardy because of a political agenda. Our service members and their families are not political pawns and should not be used as such.
The Braves have signed right-hander Hector Neris to a minor league deal with a non-roster invitation to big league Spring Training, according to Justin Toscano of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Toscano adds that Neris will be in camp today with the club.

Neris, 36 in June, signed with the Phillies as an amateur out of the Dominican Republic and made his big league debut back in 2014. That was a cup of coffee that lasted just one inning, however, and hed have to wait for the 2015 season to get a more substantial look in the majors. He did well enough with the opportunity, posting a roughly average 3.79 ERA in 32 relief appearances despite some lackluster peripheral numbers. It was still enough to earn Neris a regular role with the Phillies the following year, however, and the 2016 season kicked off the best stretch of the right-handers entire career.

From 2016 to 2019, Neris pitched to a 3.23 ERA (133 ERA+) with a 3.68 FIP in 270 1/3 innings of work. He struck out 31.3% of opponents during that time and also handled ninth inning duties for Philadelphia on a semi-regular basis, collecting 67 saves along the way. Those are all strong numbers, but a deeper look reveals an interesting twist to Neriss performance in that stretch; he was a well below-average pitcher in 2018. While 2016, 17, and 19 all saw Neris post seasons that were between 43% and 63% better than league average by ERA+, that final year actually saw him pitch to a 5.10 ERA that was 19% worse than league average.

It wasnt all bad for Neris in 2018, as his 37.4% strikeout rate was incredible and paired with a very manageable 7.8% walk rate, but injuries limited him to just 47 2/3 innings of work and an inflated .354 BABIP combined with an eye-popping 22.9% home-run-to-fly-ball ratio held him back from success that year. All of that combines into a much stronger season when looking at advanced metrics than Neris may get credit for on paper: despite his well below-average ERA, his FIP was actually slightly above average, while metrics like xERA (3.81) and SIERA (2.28) were even more bullish on the rightys performance.

Neris spent two more years with the Phillies after that, though the results (a combined 3.84 ERA and 3.73 FIP in 98 appearances) were fairly unremarkable. The righty enjoyed a renaissance after signing with the Astros in free agency, however. Between the 2022 and 23 campaigns, Neris posted a brilliant 2.69 ERA (150 ERA+) with a 3.10 FIP in 133 2/3 innings of work. He struck out 29.1% of opponents, walked 9%, and maintained strong numbers according to both xERA and SIERA. While he collected just five saves in that time due to the presence of closer Ryan Pressly, the right-hander returned to free agency last winter in line to receive a strong contract.

He wound up getting a one-year, $9MM guarantee from the Cubs last winter. Unfortunately for both Neris and Chicago, it proved to be an up-and-down season for the right-hander. Though he stepped into the clubs closer job when incumbent Adbert Alzolay went down with Tommy John surgery, Neris struggled with his command throughout his time with the Cubs. The right-hander walked a whopping 13.3% of his opponents in Chicago while striking out just 23.5% of them. While his 3.89 ERA and 4.10 FIP in 44 innings of work were more or less league average, it was hardly a surprise when the Cubs ultimately designated the veteran for assignment due to the wildness.

Neris was picked back up by the Astros for the stretch run and seemed to get his command under control for the most part with a 28.1% strikeout rate and a 3.1% walk rate. Unfortunately, his on-field production actually got substantially worse, as he was torched to the tune of a 4.70 ERA and 4.80 FIP in 15 1/3 innings of work after giving up four home runs in just 16 games. The lackluster season led Neris to linger on the free agent market this winter, and now hell ultimately have to battle his way back into a big league bullpen in camp this spring.

Hell get the opportunity to do that in Atlanta, for a club that lost a key piece of its late-inning mix back in November when it was announced that right-hander Joe Jimenez would miss 8-12 months after undergoing knee surgery. That left a void in the Braves bullpen by removing the clubs top right-handed set-up man for closer Raisel Iglesias, and a return to form could see Neris challenge Pierce Johnson for that role in 2025. Even if he cant recapture the production he flashed during his first stint in Houston, however, Neris could provide quality veteran depth to a Braves bullpen without much of it after losing Jimenez to injury and Grant Holmes to the starting rotation.
Kid Rock and Congresswoman Lauren Boebert from Colorado. Photos by MLive and Getty Images

Michigan rocker, Kid Rock, and Congresswoman from Colorado, Lauren Boebert, may or may not be an item.

The rumors of their possible relationship come after Rock and his longtime girlfriend, Audrey Berry, ended their engagement, according to US Weekly.

Rock and Boebert were seen together at the inaugural ball in Washington, D.C. and PageSix reports they were even seen getting into a cab together at 2:30 in the morning.

And when TMZ asked her about her relationship with Rock, she neither confirmed nor denied.

Youre always asking about my dating life. Is it that fun and interesting, she said. We had a great time at the Turning Point Gala, she added about her and Rock.

Boebert then added that because of TMZs stories about her and Rock, her mother wont top asking her for concert tickets. So, thats the problem Im facing now, she said with a smile on her face.

Both of you guys are single now, right, TMZ asked. Boebert laughed and said, You have a good night.

Boebert, youll recall, gained national attention when she was kicked out Beetlejuice: The Musical in a theater in Denver for alleged inappropriate adult behavior with her date.

Boebert is a member of the US House, representing Colorados 4th Congressional District. She has been serving the district since 2021.
Screen grab: ESPN

John Cena has yet to publicly address his shocking heel turn at the WWE Elimination Chamber event on Saturday.

But when he does, he wont just have the WWE Universe to answer to, but also Shannon Sharpe.

How big was Cenas heel turn? So big that it was a topic on Mondays episode of ESPNs First Take. And while the segment was largely done tongue-in-cheek, it also saw Sharpe tease a future tag team match featuring himself and Cody Rhodes taking on Cena and rapper Travis Scott, who just so happened to be involved in the angle.

Hey Cody, me and you against John Cena and Travis Scott at Summer Fest, SummerSlam, whatever they call it, Sharpe, who might not exactly be a Wrestling Observer Newsletter subscriber, said. John Cena, you need to pay for this. And me and Cody Rhodes are gonna make sure you do pay for it. We got something for your tricky you know what. Dirty, man.

As Stephen A. Smith pointed out the 56-year-olds recent hip issues, the Hall of Fame tight end already had a retort ready.

Dont worry about it, Sharpe said. John Cena gonna have a replaced hip after pulling that dirt cheap stuff on that man. Travis Scott, you too. You oughta be ashamed of yourself. I dont like turncoats.

Shannon Sharpe has Cody Rhodes back following John Cenas shocking heel turn. Travis Scott, you too. You oughta be ashamed of yourself. I dont like turncoats. pic.twitter.com/FRJoGEHDEJ  Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) March 3, 2025

Meanwhile, Dan Orlovsky expressed pure astonishment Cena would join the dark side, stating that he spent his Sunday rewatching the clip of the turn with his sons several times. Smith, for his part, unsurprisingly sided with Dwayne The Rock Johnson, who aided Cena in beating up Rhodes.

Considering that Sharpe seems to think that SummerSlam  which is in August  is WWEs next big event and appeared to have trouble remembering Rhodes name, this doesnt appear to be anything worth getting excited about anytime soon. But give the former Denver Broncos star this much: his promo was initially so convincing, that even I wondered whether this would be WWEs next foray into a mainstream media crossover.
Elon Musk speaks during a Cabinet meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2025. (Pool via AP) AP

Editors Note: DOGE has updated its website to show the departments impacted by the closures.

More federal office buildings appear to be closing in Michigan according to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Data posted to the agencys Wall of Receipts claims six leases have been terminated for offices located throughout Michigan.

However, information about which government agencies leased the properties, the properties' addresses, and other key details is missing from the DOGE website. The listed lease cancellations only show the amount of the yearly lease and the total savings.

When DOGE announced last week that it was closing an office in Okemos, it was listed as a Social Security Administration facility. That detail is no longer included on the DOGE website. Instead, the main agency for all cancelled leases is listed as General Services Administration or there is no agency listed at all.

The six latest leases cancelled in Michigan are located in the following cities:

Baraga -- A 1,200 square-foot facility. Cancelling the lease will save $14,400.

Detroit -- An 856 square-foot facility. The yearly lease is worth $17,120 and the cancellation will save $72,760 total.

Grand Rapids -- A 2,145 square-foot facility. Cancelling the lease will save $51,742 yearly and $202,657 total.

Marquette -- A 3,122 square-foot facility. $53,343 will be saved in the closure.

Sault Ste. Marie -- An 1,100 square-foot facility. Cancelling the lease will save $34,375 yearly and $85,937 total.

Traverse City -- A 798 square-foot facility. The cut will save $28,638 yearly and $50,117 total.

In total, DOGE claims closing the facilities will save $480,214.

The lease cancellations come as DOGE continues to slash the budgets of other government agencies at the direction of President Donald Trump. In January, Trump established DOGE via executive order and said the agency will be modernizing Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity.

As of March 2, DOGE claims to have saved the government $105 billion through contract, grant, and lease cancellations, according to the DOGE website. However, critics have pointed out that some of the claimed savings havent been accurately reported. One contract reportedly saved $8 billion, but was actually only worth $8 million.

In other instances, the total value of some of the contracts have already been fully obligated, meaning the government is required to spend the funds for the goods or services it purchased and may have already completed those purchases.
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 13: A sign for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is seen outside its building on February 13, 2025 in Washington, DC. Members of Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) arrived at the Internal Revenue Service to begin examining the agency's operations. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images) Getty Images

An update to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) website Monday revealed which agencies are being impacted by lease cancellations in the state of Michigan.

Over the weekend, DOGE added six Michigan locations to its list of leases that have been canceled as part of cost-cutting measures. However, details on what agencies or facilities are being impacted by the cuts were not released.

Mondays update now indicates the cuts will impact the following agencies or facilities:

Baraga -- The Bureau of Indian Affairs. A 1,200 square-foot facility. The annual lease was $14,400.

Detroit -- Agricultural marketing services. An 856 square-foot facility. The yearly lease is worth $17,120 and the cancellation will save $72,760 total.

Grand Rapids -- Departmental management (IG). A 2,145 square-foot facility. Cancelling the lease will save $51,742 yearly and $202,657 total.

Marquette -- Internal Revenue Service national office. A 3,122 square-foot facility. $53,343 will be saved in the closure.

Sault Ste. Marie -- Indian Health Service. An 1,100 square-foot facility. Cancelling the lease will save $34,375 yearly and $85,937 total.

Traverse City -- Indian Health Service. A 798 square-foot facility. The cut will save $28,638 yearly and $50,117 total.

While its still unclear exactly where each facility is located and what services they offer, the update provides some insight into the types of leases being targeted for termination. According to the DOGE website, the listed savings only represent about 30% of whats been cut.

Last week, DOGE announced it was canceling the lease for a Social Security Administration office in Okemos, but details on that facility have not been confirmed. Spokespeople for the SSA and the General Services Administration were unable to provide further details to MLive.

In January, Trump established DOGE via executive order. Trump instructed the agency to begin modernizing Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity.

As a result, DOGE has slashed the budgets of several government agencies through contract, grant, and lease cancellations, according to the DOGE website. Critics have taken issue with the perceived savings noting that some of the contracts have already been fulfilled by the government.

DOGE has also reduced the number of employees at several agencies and halted hiring for certain agencies.
PRESQUE ISLE COUNTY, MI  An 87-year-old man was airlifted to the hospital after he was hit by a dirt bike in Northern Michigan.

Michigan State Police in Alpena responded to County Road 451 in Presque Isle County at 7 p.m. on March 1.

Police say the Rogers City man walked across County Road 451 with a flashlight to his mailbox.

Once the man reached his mailbox on the east shoulder of the road, a juvenile operating a dirt bike without a headlight collided with him.

The man was taken to the hospital in critical condition, police said, while the driver of the dirt bike was uninjured.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by troopers from Gaylord, Presque Isle County Sheriffs Office, Rogers City Police Department, Rogers City Ambulance and Rogers City Area First Responders.
President Donald Trump walks before talking with reporters then boarding Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House on Friday. AP

By PAUL WISEMAN and ALEXA ST. JOHN The Associated Press

DETROIT (AP)  President Donald Trumps trade wars threaten to claim a casualty on the home front: the American auto industry.

If the president goes ahead with 25% taxes on imports from Canada and Mexico on Tuesday, he will disrupt more than $300 billion in annual U.S. automotive trade with its two neighbors, wreck supply chains that have been operating for decades and likely push up the already-forbidding price of new cars.

The tariffs pose an existential'' threat to North American auto production, said David Gantz, a fellow at Rice Universitys Baker Institute for Public Policy. They will push up the cost of everything thats imported from Mexico or Canada that goes into a car assembled in the U.S.

Kelley Blue Book says Trumps tariffs could raise the U.S. price of the average new car  already approaching $49,000  by $3,000 or more. The price of some full-size pickup trucks could shoot up by $10,000.

The economic pain would intensify if Canada and Mexico counterpunched with tariffs on American exports.

The economic impact of a sustained 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico would be severe, with full tit-for-tat retaliation likely to push Canada and Mexico into a recession and the U.S. to a point of stagnant growth, Andrew Foran of TD Economics wrote. Foran estimates that 25% tariffs would push down auto sales by 13.6% a year in Canada and 10.6% in the United States.

Trumps tariffs would upend North American auto supply chains

Since 1965  when the U.S. and Canada eliminated tariffs on each others autos and auto parts  North America has turned into an integrated auto manufacturing powerhouse. Mexico was brought into the fold by a 1994 regional trade pact and another one negotiated by Trump himself in 2020.

The fact that you can tap relatively cheap steel and aluminum from Canada, that you can use the relatively low-cost labor in Mexico to assemble cars, and that you can leverage the high tech expertise and technology of the United States together, makes North America an incredibly competitive place to build automobiles, said Brett House, a professor at Columbia Universitys business school.

Much of the production has moved to Mexico. Ford, for example, manufactures the small Bronco Sport SUV and Maverick pickup in Sonora in northwestern Mexico. Stellantis makes the Jeep Compass and Wagoneer S at a plant in Toluca, west of Mexico City, which has been in operation since 1968. General Motors turns out GMC and Chevrolet pickups at a plant in Silao in central Mexico.

Just over half the 8 million cars and light trucks the United States imported last year came from Mexico (No. 1 at almost 3 million) and Canada (No. 4 at 1.1 million). Canada and Mexico are also the top two foreign markets for U.S.-built cars and light trucks, accounting for 53% of Americas auto exports.

By taxing Canadian and Mexican imports, most of which has been entering the U.S. duty free, Trump would be lobbing an explosive into that elaborate manufacturing network.

The costs and red tape would pile up

A White House official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details of the tariff plan, said the taxes would apply each time goods cross the border from Mexico or Canada. That means the costs would pile up as auto components traveled from factories in the United States to Mexico or Canada and back again. So would the red tape: Its an administrative and bureaucratic nightmare to keep track of things, Gantz said.

Whats more, the 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico would come atop higher taxes Trump intends to impose on foreign steel and aluminum starting March 12. Trump is removing exemptions on the metals tariffs he imposed in his first term  25% on steel and 10% on aluminum  and raising the levy on aluminum to 25%. That means U.S. importers, including auto companies, would pay 50% duties on steel and aluminum from Canada and Mexico, big sources of the metals.

Youre talking about the material costs going up every time (a part) goes into one market and comes back, said K. Venkatesh Prasad, senior vice president of research at the Center for Automotive Research.

The higher costs would take a toll. A decade ago, Prasad said, the lowest-earning 20% of American consumers couldnt afford a new car. Already, he said, the bottom 40% of the population is not able to afford a new vehicle.

Ford CEO Jim Farley has complained that so far what were seeing is a lot of cost and a lot of chaos.

General Motors CEO Mary Barra said last month at the Wolfe Research auto industry conference that GM has been doing scenario planning and look at what at the different things we can change, we can move, we can respond. She expressed confidence that company can find ways to mitigate'' the effect of the tariffs. Stellantis chairman John Elkann recently said he thinks the administrations policies will boost American jobs and manufacturing.

Trumps trade war comes at an awkward time for automakers. Theyre trying to shift from gasoline-powered to electric vehicles, using revenue generated from selling conventional cars to finance EV investments, Prasad said, so the tariffs could hurt sales and limit the money available for the EV transition.

Why is Trump doing this?

Trump insists that the hefty hit to imports from Canada and Mexico arent about trade; theyre about slowing the flow of undocumented immigrants and fentanyl across U.S. borders.

We cannot allow this scourge to continue to harm the USA, and therefore, until it stops, or is seriously limited, the proposed TARIFFS scheduled to go into effect on MARCH FOURTH will, indeed, go into effect, as scheduled, Trump wrote Thursday in a post on his social media platform Truth Social.

Canada wouldnt seem to be an especially important source of fentanyl: U.S. customs agents seized just 43 pounds of fentanyl at the Canadian border last year, versus the 21,100 pounds at Mexicos.

Many analysts suspect that Trump has another goal: The 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement he negotiated in his first term comes up for renewal next year.

Although the president characterized the USMCA as a victory and a big improvement over the 1994 pact it replaced, it failed to reduce Americas trade deficits with Canada and Mexico. In fact, theyve gotten bigger. (In Canadas case, thats largely because of surging energy exports that the American Midwest and Northeast rely on.)

So he is likely to seek revisions meant to ensure that more production  specifically auto production  is done in the United States, not just North America. The tariffs could give him leverage to pressure Canada and Mexico into accepting the USMCA changes he wants.

In the meantime, writes TD Economics' Foran, the North American auto industry should still prepare itself for a prolonged period of elevated trade uncertainty and potential trade disruptions.

____

Wiseman reported from Washington.
The James E. Kennedy Christian Life Center on West Pierson Road and Hasselbring Senior Center on West Home Avenue are shown in these Flint Journal photos. Ron Fonger | The Flint Journal

FLINT, MI -- The city of Flint and a former contractor finished a messy divorce with both sides going their separate way on Monday, March 3.

City workers were cleaning the Hasselbring Senior Center on West Home Avenue, preparing it for visitors on Tuesday, March 4, while the nonprofit group that is also named Hasselbring Senior Center opened for business at a temporary location in the James E. Kennedy Christian Life Center on West Pierson Road.

Were down for the challenge, said Beverly Lewis, executive director of the Hasselbring nonprofit group. My first guys came in off Your Ride this morning, and they were excited to be in the new location. They are excited to see the setup and theyre happy.

The city evicted the Hasselbring group after the City Council couldnt agree on a contract extension for the group and after the city alleged in Genesee District Court that it ignored its demand to end third-party rentals where alcohol was allowed.

Lewis' group has claimed it abided by the terms of its expired lease with the city and accused City Hall of attempting to shake it down by raising its rent from $1 per year to $500 a month.

Flint officials have said they intend to operate the Hasselbring center with city employees and have pledged to provide better services and to appoint an advisory board for the facility.

Ed Taylor, chief of staff to Mayor Sheldon Neeley, said Monday that the city was cleaning the Hasselbring center and would reopen it under city management on Tuesday, March 4.

Once they see the services, (senior citizens) will see a level of services they deserve, Taylor said. Were working now to reopen the building with better amenities.

The city is operating the Hasselbring center with its funds as Genesee Countys Department of Senior Services considers its application for a portion of the countywide senior services millage.

The county Board of Commissioners voted last week to amend its contract with Lewis' group, allowing it to continue receiving millage money at its new location rather than allowing the city to inherit those dollars.

Taylor called that decision political, making Flint seniors a foot stool and separating the community.

Jared Field, director of communications for the county, said the county is reviewing the citys application for operating funds at the Hasselbring building, which is about one mile from the Kennedy center.

County officials are also reviewing a contract for $100,000 in improvements that have been planned at Hasselbring -- part of a broader distribution of federal stimulus funds to senior centers in the county.

Last week, some commissioners questioned the contract for the Hasselbring building because as of this week, the facility isnt receiving funding from the senior millage.

Each of 16 county senior citizen centers received $100,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds from the county to improve their facilities through the awards, which were approved in January.

At the time, each of those centers received funds from the dedicated 0.68-mill property tax for senior services.

The millage also funds operations at the centers and pays for dedicated services, including adult day care, elder abuse prevention, and home-delivered meals.

Lewis said her group made the quick transition to its temporary home at the Kennedy center with the help of many volunteers.

I want to thank the many people who showed up ..., Lewis said. When I think of everything (thats been done), my thank-you list would be five pages long. Theres so much to be thankful for.
The Genesee County Road Commission plans to close Irish Road at Jordan Road in Atlas Township on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. MLive file photo

ATLAS TWP., MI - A section of Irish Road where traffic is already restricted because of a sewer installation project will get even more difficult to navigate on Tuesday, March 4.

The Genesee County Road Commission plans to close Irish Road at Jordan Road from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, with flaggers controlling traffic.

The same county Drain Commissioners Office project has also closed all southbound traffic in the area -- from Perry to Bristol roads -- until May 1.

During the southbound closure, Irish Road traffic is being detoured, taking drivers from Bristol to Belsay and Perry roads, according to the Road Commission.

Drivers can still travel northbound on Irish Road, and residents who live within the work zone must also travel northbound only, according to the county.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  Police have identified the 18-year-old man killed in a weekend shooting as Hector Enriquez-Rangel of Wright Township.

Ottawa County sheriffs deputies say Enriquez-Rangel was brought to a Grand Rapids hospital with a gunshot wound on Saturday, March 1, where he later died.

A medical examiner ruled the manner of Enriquez-Rangels death as a homicide.

RELATED: 1 dead, 1 in custody after Ottawa County shooting

Police say the fatal shooting happened around 6:38 p.m. Saturday near Arthur Street and 40th Avenue in Wright Township.

An 18-year-old Wright Township man was arrested on unspecified charges related to the shooting. His name has not been released.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to call the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office at 616-738-4000 or Silent Observer 877-887-4536.

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A Grand Rapids real estate broker is seeking to redevelop a blighted building at 1007 Wealthy St. SE. (Photo provided by Brad Veneklase) Courtesy

GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A small, dilapidated building on a bustling stretch of Wealthy Street SE would be transformed into apartments and retail space under plans filed by a real estate broker.

Brad Veneklase, owner of Urban Soil Realty in Grand Rapids, bought the two-story building at 1007 Wealthy St. SE  located between The Electric Cheetah and The Meanwhile Bar  for $194,000 last year.
JACKSON COUNTY, MI  Auto transport company lays off workers, and try these new Jackson County restaurants.

Here are those stories and other recent Jackson County-area business news you may have missed.

Virginia Coney Island changes hands, but new owners stay true to its roots

To outsiders, the Coney dog may seem simple, but for the new owners of Virginia Coney Island, its about keeping a legacy alive.

Ted and Pam Christoff, also owners of Christoff & Sons Flooring Inc. in Jackson, took over the historic eatery, 649 E. Michigan Ave., on Wednesday, Jan. 1. Teds heritage is deeply rooted in Coney dogs, and his desire to preserve a tradition brought him back to where it all began.

Read the full story here.

119 employees laid off at auto transport company near Lansing

An auto transport company in Eaton County is shutting its doors, impacting over 100 of its employees.

Jack Cooper LLC announced it has terminated operations at its Dimondale facility, located at 9151 Billwood Highway, near Dimondale southwest of Lansing. This will result in a layoff of 119 employees, effective Saturday, Feb. 8, according to a memo submitted to the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Development.

Read the full story here.

Iconic Town Bar in downtown Jackson for sale after 6 years under current owner

After six years with the Town Bar, owner Dan Watts has decided to put the popular downtown bar up for sale.

Watts' other business Tri-County Water in Jackson has been growing over the years making it more difficult to be involved at the bar, he said.

Read the full story here.

This new Jackson restaurant combines coffee and Mexican fare

A newly opened restaurant in Jackson is combining coffee beverages and Mexican fare. Friends Roberto Arce and Angelica and Erik Canongo opened Sol Azteca on Feb. 5.

Arce moved from Mexico to the U.S. and decided last year he wanted to start his own business. Angelicas experience working in a coffee shop in Mexico inspired them to combine both ideas into one business.

Read the full story here.

Find fabric at these 4 Jackson-area stores after Joanns closure

Joann Fabrics and Crafts recently announced plans to close all of its locations this year.

People can still shop at craft chains such as Hobby Lobby, 1355 Boardman Road, and Michaels, 1525 Boardman Road, in Jackson, but there are also a variety of local shops for fabric, thread and other craft supplies

Read the full story here.

New owner of Jackson Coney Island will keep same recipe while reviving nostalgic charm

Scott Pienta, owner of boutique HMN Style in downtown Jackson, would frequently visit Jackson Coney Island for lunch.

Eventually, he noticed a For Sale sign on the side of the building at 615 E. Michigan Ave. Recognizing the iconic status of the historic restaurant in Jackson, Pienta decided to pursue a new venture.

Read the full story here.

Aldi is coming to Hillsdale this spring

Progress is being made to bring a new grocery store to the Hillsdale-area.

Discount supermarket chain Aldi is currently building its first Hilldale location at 3751 W. Carleton Road. It plans to host a grand opening ceremony for the new store at 8:45 a.m. Thursday, March 13, a representative for Aldi wrote in an email.

Read the full story here.

Jackson misused authority, deceived developer in Hayes Hotel sale switch-up, lawsuit says

A former developer for the Hayes Hotel is asking a Jackson County judge to block the citys latest sale to another developer.

Milwaukee-based J. Jeffers & Co. filed a lawsuit Thursday, Feb. 27, against the city of Jackson in Jackson County Circuit Court on Thursday, Feb. 27. The lawsuit alleges the city of Jackson breached its contract with J. Jeffers & Co., and deceived the developers.

Read the full story here.

Try loaded nachos or barbecue pizza at new Grass Lake restaurant with welcoming, local vibe

Prates Place in Grass Lake offers smoked meats, local draft beers and an inviting space.

The kids come in here and see themselves on our TVs and on our posters, owner Carrie Prater said. Thats what we wanted; we wanted you to feel welcome.

Read the full story here.

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A 72-year-old man was charged with false report of a felony on Monday, March 3, in Muskegon County District Court for allegedly making false bomb threats toward a Muskegon hospital. (MLive File Photo) Bradley Massman | MLive.com

MUSKEGON, MI  A 72-year-old man accused of making false bomb threats toward a Muskegon hospital has a pattern of repeat behavior.

Patrick George Bassett was charged with false report of a felony on Monday, March 3, in Muskegon County District Court.

The lone felony charge stems from alleged threats Bassett made Friday night, Feb. 28, against Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital on East Sherman Boulevard.

RELATED: False bomb threat at Muskegon hospital leads to arrest

Police say a man called around 8 p.m. and allegedly made a threat that multiple explosive devices were in the hospital.

Investigators searched the hospital and determined the threat wasnt credible. Police traced the call to a residence in Norton Shores and arrested Bassett at the scene.

Bassett has a history of making similar threats, court records show.

RELATED: Man arrested for bomb threat against U.P. hospital sentenced to time served

He was sentenced to two years in federal prison in 2012 for calling in a bomb threat at a high school in New York.

Bassett, who made the threat from Michigan, claimed there was a bomb in the girls' locker room. No bomb was found.

Most recently, Bassett was charged in 2022 with report of a false bomb threat and a misdemeanor count of malicious use of telecommunications devices in Marquette County District Court.

In that case, he called U.P. Hospital System-Marquette and said there was a bomb in the facility. The hospital went into lockdown for nearly three hours while authorities searched. Nothing suspicious was found.

Bassett pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor and the threat charge was dismissed, records show.

Bassett is set to appear in a Muskegon County courtroom again on March 11 for a probable cause hearing.

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US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, February 28, 2025. [Photo/Agencies]



The much-anticipated meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy ended with the latter leaving the Oval Office without the much-talked-about mineral deal.

While European leaders, including those of Germany, France, Italy and the UK, rushed to back Zelenskyy, some American lawmakers harshly criticized Ukraine for "disrespecting" the United States. The shouting match between the two presidents, which, according to South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham, made the meeting a "complete, utter disaster," could end Washington's support for Kyiv.

Zelenskyy's US visit, which turned out to be a farce, has not only shown the crisis of trust between Washington and its Western allies, but also laid bare the selfish calculations  packaged as "protection for peace"  of the Trump administration.

True that pledging to end the crisis in 24 hours, Trump has taken "concrete" actions  holding "good talks" with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin, extensive high-level engagements with Moscow in Saudi Arabia, and Friday's meeting with Zelenskyy.

But are these endeavors really for peace?

On the Ukraine front, Trump, in disregard of Zelenskyy's repeated urging for security guarantees, has been pushing for access to Ukraine's mineral resources. The reason is simple: The US wants its money back after years of military aid to the country  not regional peace.

"Trump is straightforward about his purpose  "We want to get that money back  adding, "We are helping the country through a very, very big problem but the American taxpayer now is going to get their money back plus."

To this end, the Trump administration has begun an intense pressure campaign against Zelenskyy. Days after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called Ukraine's NATO membership "unrealistic" and suggested Kyiv give up the hope of winning "territories" from Russia, Washington talked with Moscow in Saudi Arabia without Ukraine, sparking concerns that Ukraine's future could be decided behind its back.

Within a month, Trump has called Zelenskyy a "dictator," accusing Kyiv of starting the conflict. Then he prodded Zelenskyy to sign the mineral deal, threatening "he'd better move fast or he is not going to have a country left." During their Friday meeting, by harshly blaming Zelenskyy for "gambling with World War III," Trump intended to force Ukraine into clinching the agreement.

Through these maneuvers, Trump has showcased his art of the deal in pressuring Ukraine to comply with his demands. The purpose, apparently, is to grab as much as possible from the country. But this is not what Kyiv is ready to accept. Zelenskyy, prior to his US trip, has made it clear that he is "not signing something that 10 generations of Ukrainians will have to repay."

Zelenskyy wants security guarantees from Washington. But Trump only wants to get the money back without making any firm security promise. "Maybe until we have a deal with Russia"  this is how Trump responded when asked about whether Washington will continue to supply ammunition to Ukraine.

Having been involved in a conflict that has already killed tens of thousands, Ukraine can easily predict its future under Trump's mediation: Accepting Russia's control over some of its "territories," giving up the hope of NATO membership, coerced to hand revenues from its mineral resources to the US, and obtaining no security guarantees from the United States.

On the European front, Trump has repeatedly asked the EU to bear the responsibility of "protecting" Ukraine.

And don't forget about the colossal profits the US has reaped from Western anti-Russia sanctions.

As a result of the boycott of Russian oil and gas, the US has taken the top spot as Europe's supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) since the outbreak of the conflict. Europe accounted for 55 percent of total US LNG exports last year, according to financial firm LSEG. The EU's LNG imports from the US in 2023 nearly doubled from the amount in 2021, according to the European Commission.

And the US sells its gas at higher prices than Russia. "This is happening now, so in the future prices will rise even more, and the United States will benefit more," Croatian economic analyst Milivoj Pasicek said.

While all the parties concerned are losing from the conflict, the US, in contrast, is making a fortune. With so-called "peace" talks, Trump's ultimate purpose as a businessman-turned-politician is to extract as much as possible from Ukraine and European countries. This is the main reason behind the widening rift between the US and Europe, ultimately reducing Zelenskky's US trip into a farce. (Source: CGTN)
Neil Juhnke, Michigan Sugar Company President and Chief Executive Officer, speaks during the Bay Future Annual Meeting in downtown Bay City on Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com

WASHINGTON, D.C.  The CEO of one of Bay Countys largest employers will attend President Donald Trumps joint address to Congress this week.

President and CEO of Michigan Sugar Neil Juhnke will be the guest of U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Bay City, for the joint session Tuesday, March 4.

Im excited to welcome Neil Juhnke of Michigan Sugar to Washington for President Trumps joint address, McDonald Rivet said in a statement. Family farmers bring thousands of good-paying jobs to the region, and help put food on the table across the country.

McDonald Rivet, a member of the U.S. House Committee on Agriculture, called 2025 a critical year for growers in Michigan.

We need to pass a Farm Bill, and with so much at stake, we need to make sure Michigan farmers have a seat at the table, she said.

Founded in 1906, Michigan Sugar Co. is headquartered in Bay City. It has sugar beet processing facilities in Monitor Township, Caro, Croswell and Sebewaing.

The company has 865 grower-owners who plant and harvest about 140,000 acres of sugar beets each year, according to a news release.

Michigan Sugar Co. is the third largest of eight sugar beet processing companies in the United States.

Juhnke of Freeland joined Michigan Sugar in April 2023.

I am honored to have the opportunity to attend the State of the Union and want to thank Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet for extending me the invitation, Juhnke said in a statement. I look forward to joining her in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday to hear President Trumps address.

This is an incredibly important time for agriculture as we continue to urge Congress to pass a Farm Bill that plays a vital role in the health of family farms like those operated by Michigan Sugar Companys roughly 865 grower-owners, the statement continues. The Trump Administration has shown a strong commitment to agriculture, and we are fortunate to have Rep. McDonald Rivet on the House Agriculture Committee as she understands the important role our industry plays in the regional economy.

Want more Bay City- and Saginaw-area news? Bookmark the local Bay City and Saginaw news page or sign up for the free 3@3 daily newsletter for Bay City and Saginaw.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson speaks to media after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's State of the State address on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. (Jake May | MLive.com)

LANSING, MI  Experts warn a proposed federal law requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote would disenfranchise some populations, including married women who adopt their spouses last names.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is among the election officials sounding the alarm over the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Benson appeared in a video uploaded this week, opposing the bill.

So, who is the SAVE Act most likely to silence? Married women, especially married women, Benson said in the 6-minute video.

There are more than 2.2 million married women in Michigan who changed their surname, Benson said.

Under the SAVE Act, married women who changed their surname would still be able to vote, but they would need to provide additional documentation if their ID name doesnt match their birth certificate. The specific requirements for this documentation would be determined by each state, according to the bill sponsor.

If those women who have changed their names dont have an updated U.S. passport  and more than 5.8 million Michigan adults dont  they might not be able to register, Benson said in the video, which she concluded by encouraging Michigan residents to express SAVE Act opposition to their representative in Congress.

The SAVE Act is a hot-button issue that extends beyond Michigan.

A survey published by Pew Research in September 2023 stated almost 80% of U.S. women married to men adopt their husbands name.

The Center for American Progress, a Washington, D.C. policy institute, published a report in recent weeks warning the SAVE Act does not treat their right to vote as sacred and remains ignorant to the fact that requirements of the legislation threaten to infringe on the voting rights of millions, including Republican, Democratic, and independent women voters.

The same Pew survey found that the two groups of women most likely to take their spouses name were conservative Republican women and Republican/Republican-leaning women, while the two least-likely groups were liberal Democratic women and Democratic/Democratic-leaning women, the Center for American Progress report stated.

Another policy institute, the New York City-based Brennan Center for Justice, published a report last month that stated the SAVE Act would devastate voter registration while disenfranchising tens of millions of American citizens.

Many might not have noticed how broadly the bill could apply  its show-your-papers requirement is not just limited to new registrations but rather applies to every application to register to vote, which in many jurisdictions includes re-registrations and changes of address," The Brennan Center for Justice report stated. And tens of millions of Americans register or re-register between every federal election.

Opposition to the proposal  including its potential impact on married women  has reached politicians local town hall meetings as well as social media forums.

The Facebook page for the League of Women Voters of the Lansing Area last month posted a statement that read, Take his name and lose your vote. Tell your representative to vote no on the SAVE Act.

Benson and other SAVE Act opponents said the proposal also would create barriers to voting access for college students, low-income residents, rural residents and Black residents.

We can and we must take every reasonable action to ensure only U.S. citizens are voting, but the SAVE Act is not a reasonable effort, Benson said.

If signed into law, the SAVE Act would significantly change how people can register to vote in Michigan, officials said.

Voter registration by mail or online would be forbidden and people would be required to register in person only.

Instead of proof of residency, a drivers license or state ID, those wanting to register to vote would have to provide proof of citizenship using a passport or birth certificate along with a photo ID.

While enhanced licenses would be accepted as proof of citizenship, standard drivers licenses, even those with a REAL ID designation, would not and would require an accompanying birth certificate.

Michigan doesnt require residents to show proof of U.S. citizenship when registering to vote. However, new registrants must attest under penalty of perjury that they are a U.S. citizen and that the information about their identity and residency is accurate.
President Donald Trump meets with Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. Mstyslav Chernov | The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C.  After a verbal blowup between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the White House last week, leaders from across the world  including in Michigan  are weighing in.

Zelenskyy traveled to Washington, D.C. last week to sign a deal that would give the U.S. access to its mineral riches as Trump aimed to pressure Ukraine to accept a deal ending the war with its neighbor, Russia.

That deal was not struck. Instead, the fallout from a heated Oval Office exchange on Friday, Feb. Feb. 28, between the Republican president and Zelenskyy  along with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance  sparked criticism from Ukraine-backing lawmakers as well as praise from Republican supporters of the U.S. president.

Michigan politicians from both political parties weighed in on the matter.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, in a joint statement with other Democratic governors, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter:

Donald Trump and JD Vance used the sacred Oval Office to berate President Zelensky for not trusting Vladimir Putins word. Americans must protect our strong democratic values on the world stage instead of undermining President Zelenskys work to fight for his nation and the freedom of his people after being invaded by Russia. We, along with millions of Americans, stand united with the Ukrainian people.

U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Holly), who will provide a rebuttal to Trumps joint address to Congress this week, wrote on X:

I cant imagine the party Putin is having in Moscow right now. He doesnt have to lift a finger  he invades a country, gets pushed back, and then sidles up to an American President short-sighted enough to do this bidding for him, right from our Oval Office.

Slotkin later issued a follow-up statement on X:

Meanwhile, the Art of the Deal guy ended the day without the mineral rights deal he said would be good for our country. Not a great day for anyone but Putin  or maybe Xi Jinping.

U.S. Sen. Gary Peters (D-Bloomfield Township) wrote on his X account:

President Trump and VP Vances treatment of President Zelenskyy doesnt represent us as a nation and is disrespectful to Ukraine, our ally that Russia invaded. U.S. foreign policy should be about democratic values  not this twisted protection racket that Trump wants to run.

U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Watersmeet) wrote on his X account on X:

American foreign policy should always be America First.

Ive been saying for years on record, we need to have an exit strategy, a plan for peace, and have accountability for every dollar spent that the U.S. has provided for the Ukrainian conflict with Russia.

President Zelenskyy has proven multiple times, including today with President Trump, that he views their greatest ally (the United States) as nothing more than a cash cow. Its important to remember, he treated President Biden this exact same way, but the Biden Administration simply rolled over and played dead.

President Trump understands that there are very few options to find peace in this 1000 year old conflict and 3 year old war. American blood must not be shed in this fight, so all other options must be explored. President Trump and his team negotiated and came up with, what is quite possibly, the only way to stop the bloodshed and fighting at this point.

The warriors of the Ukrainian military have valiantly fought this war for 3 years. Ive met with them personally and they have shown courage and bravery in the face of evil.

Zelenskyy must immediately stop these foolish games, and resume peace talks to end the bloodshed and move all of Europe forward.

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids) wrote on her X account:

Disgraceful and un-American. President Trump and Vice President Vance are playing right into Putins hands. Now more than ever, we must stand with our democratic ally, Ukraine. In the House, we just need three patriotic Republicans to join @HouseDemocrats in pushing back.

U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett (R-Charlotte) told WLNS 6 News, of Lansing:

President Trumps discussion with President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office was a direct and open exchange, something that typically happens behind closed doors. The Trump administration is breaking away from the old model of backroom deals, ensuring transparency so that Americans arent left in the dark or put last. I know firsthand the human cost of war. That cost is far too often overlooked in these discussions. My hope is a deal is brokered to save lives and keep us from another world war.

U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Romeo) wrote on her X account:

President Trump inherited this war. He has said from the beginning he wants to bring peace. @POTUS is a strong leader, and I know his negotiations will bring a deal together.

U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Detroit) wrote on his X account:

Ukraine is one of our most trusted allies, and its people are fighting for their lives. Instead of trying to negotiate peace, Trump and Vance disrespected our ally for their own political gain.
James Crumbley enters the Oakland County Courtroom of Cheryl Matthews, Wednesday, March, 13, 2024 in Pontiac, Mich. Crumbley is charged with involuntary manslaughter, accused of failing to secure a gun at home and ignoring his son's mental health. Ethan Crumbley killed four students at Oxford High School in 2021. Jury deliberations are set to resume Thursday. (Mandi Wright/Detroit Free Press via AP, Pool) AP

PONTIAC, MI -- Following their convictions on four counts each of manslaughter, both parents of a Michigan school shooter have filed motions for new trials.

The latest request comes from James Crumbley, 48, whose attorneys filed their motion in Oakland County District Court on Feb. 28.

It cites similar reasons to those included in his 46-year-old wife Jennifer Crumbleys motion, which her attorneys filed Dec. 2.

Their 18-year-old son, Ethan Crumbley, pleaded guilty and is serving a life sentence for a school shooting that killed four students at Oxford High School on Nov. 30, 2021.

A primary argument is that prosecutors kept secret proffer agreements made with witnesses, impacting the fairness of the trials. A proffer agreement occurs when a prosecutor agrees not to charge a witness in exchange for truthful testimony.

The proffer agreements were released by Oakland County Prosecutor Karen D. McDonalds office in March 2024, following the conviction and sentencings of Jennifer and James Crumbley.

The agreements were made with attorneys representing former Oxford High School Dean of Students Nicholas Ejak and guidance counselor Shawn Hopkins, who both testified in the parents' separate trials and have never faced criminal charges.

The agreements made with their attorneys state the purpose was to obtain truthful information, including information about possible criminal activity, and no promises of favorable consideration were being offered.

The same agreement also states: This office will not offer any proffer statement made by you or your client in this offices case-in-chief in any criminal prosecution of your client.

No one got a deal, and no one was promised immunity from prosecution, Oakland County Chief Assistant Prosecutor David Williams told MLive in January, related to Jennifer Crumbleys motion. Proffer agreements are a common investigative tool that allows witnesses to share information with prosecutors. We provided the defense with all necessary discovery, as they are entitled to under the law.

The defense disagrees.

To the extent that the prosecution may argue that the prosecutor cannot bestow immunity on a witness without judicial action, the prosecution is mistaken, defense attorneys said. Our federal courts have repeatedly recognized that proffer letters or agreements, such as the one in the instant case, bestow upon a witness an informal grant of immunity.

There are other claims in the 52-page motion for a new filed by attorney Alona Sharon on behalf of James Crumbley.

Among them is that Ethan Crumbley should have been available to testify at his parents' trials.

Since the teen already pleaded guilty and had been sentenced, Sharon wrote that Fifth Amendment protections used as a reason for not calling him to the stand didnt apply.

Oakland County Circuit Judge Cheryl A. Matthews has not ruled on the motions from either parent.

They were accused of negligence for failing to intervene when their son exhibited signs of emotional distress and for failing to keep their son from accessing the gun he used -- an early Christmas gift -- in the shooting.

The fatal shooting victims were: Madisyn Baldwin, 17; Tate Myre, 16; Hana St. Juliana, 14; and Justin Shilling, 17. Six more students and a teacher also suffered gunshot wounds.

Jennifer and James Crumbley were each sentenced to a minimum of 10 years in prison.

James Crumbleys motion requests he be granted a new trial or a hearing to present evidence that may be used in a future appeal.
Students of Malta Chinese School experience wonders of "ancient Xi'an"

Xinhua) 13:58, March 03, 2025

Students attend the Chinese cultural event at the Malta Chinese School in Luqa, Malta, on March 2, 2025. A Chinese cultural event held on Sunday at the Malta Chinese School offered students an immersive experience of "ancient Xi'an," one of China's most historic cities. The event, co-hosted by the China Cultural Center in Malta and the Malta Chinese School, showcased Xi'an's deep historical and cultural significance. With a history spanning more than 3,100 years, Xi'an served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history and is home to the renowned Terracotta Warriors, created during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC). (Xinhua/Chen Wenxian)

VALLETTA, March 2 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese cultural event held on Sunday at the Malta Chinese School offered students an immersive experience of "ancient Xi'an," one of China's most historic cities.

Wang Xiaozhou, a staff member of the China Cultural Center in Malta, introduced the rich history of Xi'an, the capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province. She highlighted the city's most iconic archaeological discoveries, including the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, bronze chariots and horses, and the Xun, an ancient Chinese wind instrument made of pottery.

Students eagerly participated in the session, answering Wang's questions about Xi'an and trying out the pottery Xun.

The event, co-hosted by the China Cultural Center in Malta and the Malta Chinese School, showcased Xi'an's deep historical and cultural significance. With a history spanning more than 3,100 years, Xi'an served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history and is home to the renowned Terracotta Warriors, created during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC).

"I love Chinese and will keep learning it," said six-year-old Matilda Metsola, who has been studying Chinese for more than two years at the school. Having previously visited China with her family, she eagerly hopes to return.

Her mother, Liesbeth Oost Metsola, shared her family's enthusiasm for Chinese culture, noting that Matilda's younger siblings are also learning Chinese. "Matilda is always happy to study Chinese and eager to master it. She sets a great example for her younger brother and sister."

Chen Juheng, head of the Malta Chinese School, noted that the event sparked strong interest among students in the wisdom of Chinese civilization. "Chinese language education is inseparable from cultural heritage," he said.

Yuan Yuan, director of the China Cultural Center in Malta, said that more events of this kind will be organized in the future to strengthen ties between Chinese and Maltese civilizations.

Two girls build a model of traditional Chinese tower at the Malta Chinese School in Luqa, Malta, on March 2, 2025. A Chinese cultural event held on Sunday at the Malta Chinese School offered students an immersive experience of "ancient Xi'an," one of China's most historic cities. The event, co-hosted by the China Cultural Center in Malta and the Malta Chinese School, showcased Xi'an's deep historical and cultural significance. With a history spanning more than 3,100 years, Xi'an served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history and is home to the renowned Terracotta Warriors, created during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC). (Xinhua/Chen Wenxian)

A boy and a girl solve a jigsaw puzzle at the Malta Chinese School in Luqa, Malta, on March 2, 2025. A Chinese cultural event held on Sunday at the Malta Chinese School offered students an immersive experience of "ancient Xi'an," one of China's most historic cities. The event, co-hosted by the China Cultural Center in Malta and the Malta Chinese School, showcased Xi'an's deep historical and cultural significance. With a history spanning more than 3,100 years, Xi'an served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history and is home to the renowned Terracotta Warriors, created during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC). (Xinhua/Chen Wenxian)

Students attend the Chinese cultural event at the Malta Chinese School in Luqa, Malta, on March 2, 2025. A Chinese cultural event held on Sunday at the Malta Chinese School offered students an immersive experience of "ancient Xi'an," one of China's most historic cities. The event, co-hosted by the China Cultural Center in Malta and the Malta Chinese School, showcased Xi'an's deep historical and cultural significance. With a history spanning more than 3,100 years, Xi'an served as the capital for 13 dynasties in Chinese history and is home to the renowned Terracotta Warriors, created during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC). (Xinhua/Chen Wenxian)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
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Karnataka Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda accuses Rashmika Mandanna of disregarding Kannada; says 'should be taught a lesson'

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Nushrratt Bharuccha does Rashmika Mandanna's sami step from Pushpa, says 'jiska gaana wohi kare toh better'

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Pull out your drivers license or government ID card. If it doesnt have a black-circled star in the upper right hand corner or a picture of an American flag and the word enhanced on the card, you will be barred from using it to board a U.S. flight or visit certain federal properties starting May 7. Same goes for your adult family members and friends.

The changeover deadline is still two months away, but Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns is urging anyone who needs to make the change to start as soon as possible because of the documentation that is required to upgrade from a standard license or ID to a Real ID. The process for getting proper documents may be a serious hurdle, particularly if your name has changed since birth.

They think certain documents are official documents, but its not considered a federal identification, said Kearns, who has been offering expanded hours and doing other outreach to spread the word in advance of the Real ID deadline.

Conversion to a Real ID requires an in-person visit to a Department of Motor Vehicles office. Right now, Kearns said, many people coming into county auto bureaus, which serve as local DMV locations, are being turned away because the documents they have to upgrade from a standard license to a Real ID dont meet federal requirements.

Thats particularly true of people whose current names dont match their birth certificates because they married, divorced or even took new names because of holy orders, Kearns said.

To make the process easier, the Clerks Office encourages people to make appointments for auto bureau transactions, including the Real ID. Kearns also recently instituted an express line for appointment holders. Walk-ins are still allowed but priority is given to appointment holders.

The county auto bureau in Cheektowaga (2122 George Urban Blvd.), is also holding two Real ID events with extended weekday and Saturday hours for individuals who make appointments in advance for Real ID changes: from 5 to 8 p.m. March 11 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 22.

Anyone with questions about DMV transactions or who needs assistance making an appointment can call 716-858-8864 during regular weekday hours.

When you hear words like mandatory, those are strong words, Kearns said. If youre going to go on an adventure, youd better get the Real ID first.

Not sure what the Real ID is about and whether you need it? Heres a Q&A to help.

What is a Real ID?

A Real ID is a higher level of personal identification than a standard state-issued drivers license or government identification. It was created in response to security recommendations made by the 9/11 Commission after the Sept. 11 attacks in 2001.

The deadline to upgrade to a Real ID was originally set in 2020, but repeatedly delayed because of Covid. The new deadline is May 7.

Starting then, you will be required to show a Real ID, or higher level of identification, such as an enhanced drivers license or passport to fly within the U.S. or visit certain secure federal properties, like military bases or federal courthouses.

If I dont get a Real ID, is my standard drivers license still valid?

Yes. You can still use your standard license to drive or purchase alcohol, for instance, but it wont be valid ID for flights.

Kearns said hes heard from people who say they dont plan to upgrade to a Real ID because they dont travel. But he cautioned that unforeseen events can change that.

A good friend passes away in Florida, and youve got to get on a plane, he said, as an example.

Do my kids need a Real ID to fly?

The ID requirements apply to adults ages 18 and older. Anyone younger does not need such identification.

How much will a Real ID cost?

There is no difference in cost between getting a standard ID or drivers license and getting a Real ID. If you are amending your current license to upgrade it to a Real ID, the cost is $12.50. If you are getting a new license or renewing a license, the cost is $64 and up, depending on age.

What documents do I need to gain a Real ID?

If you already have a valid New York drivers license with a current address and it is not yet up for renewal, the least documentation that most adults will need to obtain a Real ID, aside from your current license, is proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form, and one more proof of your state residency.

There are roughly 30 types of residency proofs, but the most common would include a bank statement or utility bill with your current address. If your drivers license is up for renewal, then you cannot use your drivers license as a proof of residence.

In all cases, you will also will need to supply one additional form of ID, such as a passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, permanent resident or employment authorization certificate. If you need a replacement birth certificate, you can usually get those in person or online from the local government, state or country where you were born.

Documents must be originals or certified copies. Regular photocopies are not allowed.

If you changed your name, even more documents are required.

The New York DMV has an interactive document guide online to help you figure out what documents you need to change over your drivers license.

My name has changed since birth. What other documents do I need?

Many people, particularly women, change their birth name because of marriage, divorce or remarriage. You will have to produce a marriage certificate, divorce decree or other court document showing each change of name. Similarly, court documents are required in cases of adoption.

In addition, if you changed your name because you married, not just any marriage certificate will do. The certificate cant be a church-issued certificate. It must be government-issued marriage license from the city or town where you were married, Kearns said. If you dont have that, youll need to get it from the city or town clerk where your marriage occurred.

I dont want to get a Real ID. Are there other forms of identification I can use to fly?

Yes. You can use a passport (U.S. or foreign) or U.S. passport card, permanent resident card (green card), enhanced drivers license, military ID, federal government card PIV card, Canadian provincial drivers license, photo ID from a federally recognized Tribal Nation, I-766 employment authorization card, Veteran Health Identification Card, or any of the U.S. recognized trusted traveler program ID cards like NEXUS or Global Entry.

The full list can be found on the Transportation Security Administration website.
Oscars 2025: The Brutalist actor Guy Pearce shows solidarity with Palestine at the red carpet with Free Palestine pin

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Supreme Court wraps Samay Raina for speaking in Canada about the case: 'We know how to deal with them...'

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Viswanath Pilla is a business journalist with 16 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, Pilla covers pharma, healthcare and infrastructure sectors for Moneycontrol.

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Donald Trump sparks crypto rally by saying more coins to be in reserve

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WASHINGTON  For all the tumult surrounding the supposed cuts to Medicaid buried in the budget resolution that the Republican House passed last week, its worth noting that one important thing is missing from the text of that measure:

The word Medicaid.

In other words, the outcry from Democrats and the Buffalo medical establishment about coming Medicaid cuts seems a bit premature  but it is not misguided.

While the House resolution is only the first step in a turgid process in which the House and Senate will eventually have to agree on a budget plan, the House measure appears to back Republicans into a corner in which they will have to make some tough choices. One of the toughest? To either cut Medicaid  the federal/state health care plan for low-income Americans, including seniors in nursing homes  or perhaps scale back their ambitions for $4.5 trillion in tax cuts over a decade.

Heres a look at why that is, along with what leading Democrats and Republicans have to say about it:

A fiscal trap

The House budget resolution didnt have to mention Medicaid.

This is not a budget like your household budget, where you plan out your expenses in detail and match them against your income. Instead, a federal budget resolution is more akin to a teenagers diary, full of extravagant hopes and dreams.

Believe it or not, federal law calls for such a wish list as the first step in the budget process. The problem for Republicans is that the budget resolution the House passed calls for some of its lawmakers to make good on those hopes and dreams. And by doing so, House Republicans appear to have constructed a fiscal trap that could ensnare Medicaid.

To meet their goal of a $2 trillion cut in federal spending over a decade, the budget resolution orders various House committees to find savings in programs that are under their jurisdiction. And the House Energy and Commerce Committee  which oversees Medicaid and a number of other federal programs  was tasked with finding at least $880 billion of those savings.

The trouble is, of the $25 trillion in 10-year expenses that committee oversees, the vast majority of it comes from two programs: Medicaid and Medicare, the federal health care program for seniors. As the New York Times reported last week, the committee could eliminate every non-health care program it oversees and still fall short of its goal of saving at least $880 billion.

So as long as that goal remains in place, it appears that Republicans will have to cut health care. And experts think they have to target Medicaid, given their previous vows to avoid cuts that would infuriate seniors  who are more likely than most to show up at the polls on Election Day.

Once Republicans took Medicare and Social Security off the table, the math is inescapable that Medicaid cuts would help pay for tax cuts, Larry Levitt, executive vice president for health policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation, said last week on X.

An outcry from WNY

Democrats, along with many figures in the Western New York health care industry, are already treating Republican-led Medicaid cuts as something they have to fight. Eighteen speakers showed up Friday at Rep. Tim Kennedys news conference on the issue, including executives from Kaleida Health, Catholic Health, Erie County Medical Center and Oishei Childrens Hospital.

Any reduction in Medicaid reimbursements from the federal government will have a very harmful impact on our most vulnerable patients and could lead to a reduction of services, said Dr. Michael Cummings, associate medical director at ECMC.

Kennedy, a Buffalo Democrat, noted in an interview that approximately 285,000 people in his district are enrolled in Medicaid, including 110,000 children and 29,000 seniors.

What they voted for will require massive cuts across the board to health care, and thats why we are fighting back, Kennedy said. These cuts are devastating, and were saying: Get your hands off of our health care, and get your hands off of our Medicaid, because people, peoples health care, peoples livelihoods are going to be impacted across the board. And unquestionably, lives will be lost if such cuts are approved, he added.

One thing is certain: Any cuts to Medicaid would hit New York State especially hard. Thats because the state has nearly 6 million residents enrolled in the program, and because it offers more generous Medicaid benefits than many states.

One way of cutting the program would be to institute a per capita cap on federal reimbursements for Medicaid  a move that could cost New York State $48 billion over 10 years if it wanted to maintain services at their current level, the Kaiser Family Foundation reported. Such a cap could also mean a significant drop in the number of New Yorkers who receive Medicaid, Kaiser said.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul agreed that the Republican budget could trim the Medicaid rolls in New York State.

House Republicans just voted to rip health care away from up to 1.8 million New Yorkers  all to bankroll giveaways for billionaires, Hochul said. Every New York Congress member who backed this should be ashamed.

What Republicans say

Hearing all of that, Republicans basically say to Democrats: Chill out.

Theres not a single provision within that budget resolution that outlines one cut to Medicaid. Period, Rep. Mike Lawler, a Hudson Valley Republican who is eyeing a challenge against Hochul next year, said on Fox News. They can sit there and go through the numbers and they can claim it does this or that its going to kick people off their health insurance, but it is a lie.

Speaking on CNN last week, House Speaker Mike Johnson went even further, insisting that Republicans wont be looking to make wholesale changes to Medicaid.

The president said over and over and over, Were not going to touch Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid. Weve made the same commitment, said Johnson, a Louisiana Republican. Now that said, what we are going to do is go into those programs and carve out the fraud, waste and abuse, and find efficiencies.

Rep. Nick Langworthy, a Republican who represents many Buffalo suburbs as well as the Southern Tier, said in an interview that the spending cuts in a final budget resolution may well be smaller than what the House suggests, simply because the Senate doesnt have the same appetite for cuts that the House has.

I do not believe there will be benefit cuts to Medicaid, said Langworthy, who serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee. The president has said that repeatedly. The speaker has now publicly stated that he will not cut benefits to Medicaid.

But Langworthy said both New York State and Congress should look for ways to make the program more affordable.

I think they (New York officials) need to do some deep self-reflection as to how to get that program under control, because its bankrupting the state, he said.

On the federal level, Langworthy mentioned one of the efficiencies that Republicans are considering for Medicaid: adding a requirement that more adult recipients be working in order to receive aid from the program.

But that alone wouldnt free Republicans from the fiscal trap they appear to set for themselves with the budget resolution. Analyzing a similar proposal two years ago, the Congressional Budget Office said it would remove upwards of 1.5 million people from the Medicaid rolls but save only $109 billion over 10 years  $771 billion less than the amount of savings the Energy and Commerce Committee is supposed to find.
FIR order against Madhabi Puri Buch, 5 others: Bombay HC to hear SEBI, BSE appeals on March 4

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Top gainers and losers today: Stocks that moved the most on March 3

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Congress quashes talks of rift in Karnataka after Moily's big claim: 'Nobody said Shivakumar will become CM ...'

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Development in every area of Delhi is priority of new BJP govt: CM Rekha Gupta

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Eknath Shinde rejects rift rumours, says 'we will not break' ahead of Maharashtra's Budget Session

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WASHINGTON  Alissa Ellman of Lockport always considered herself patriotic but not political.

Thats why she joined the Army National Guard before graduating from high school and why she volunteered to deploy to Afghanistan in January 2003. Its why she returned to Afghanistan to work for a contractor supporting the war effort, and why she rejected a veterans disability payment in favor of taking a U.S. government job to aid veterans.

But Tuesday night, this patriot will have a big political issue on her mind while watching from the gallery of the House of Representatives as President Trump delivers a speech to Congress. Shell be there a week after the Trump administration laid her off from her job at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs without even telling her first  and shes not happy about what happened to her and some of her colleagues.

I am speaking out because I cannot see how employing veterans in the federal government is fraud, waste or abuse, said Ellman, who is attending Trumps speech as a guest of Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer, a New York Democrat. Veterans are some of the best people I know. Veterans have sacrificed for this country; they are the ones who have been defrauded  their talents wasted and service abused (by the federal layoffs). For many of us these jobs are more than a job; they are how we continue our service, continue our devotion to make America a better place.

Schumer, who heard about Ellmans layoff through a union official, said her story illustrates the fire-first, think-about-it-later approach of the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency, headed by tech billionaire Elon Musk.

Alissa Ellman dedicated her life to service for our country, both in the Army, where she suffered injuries, and here in Western New York helping her fellow veterans while working at the Buffalo VA, Schumer said. Firing her, firing veterans and slashing thousands from the VA workforce is outrageous and should be reversed.

Ellman was one of 2,400 VA employees laid off so far as part of the Trump administrations downsizing of the federal government, which Musk defended at a Cabinet meeting last week. He said the federal government had to find ways to cut expenses in order to stave off eventual bankruptcy.

We wish to keep everyone who is doing a job that is essential and doing that job well, Musk added. But if  if theyre  if the job is not essential or theyre not doing the job well, they obviously should not be on the public payroll.

Thats a point of view that Trump has endorsed and encouraged. ELON IS DOING A GREAT JOB, BUT I WOULD LIKE TO SEE HIM GET MORE AGGRESSIVE, Trump said on his Truth Social website Feb. 22, four days before Ellman was laid off.

But Schumer said Ellmans plight shows that DOGE is actually too aggressive.

This is not how you treat our veterans, Schumer said. Its not just unacceptable, its un-American.

Ellmans story couldnt be more American. She joined the Guard while still at Fillmore Central High School in Allegany County in 2001. And in January 2003, she left home for an 18-month tour of duty as an Army flight operations specialist in Afghanistan, where American troops were waging war against the terrorist regime connected to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

While still in the Guard, she returned to Afghanistan in 2005 for a three-year stint managing flight line operations for Halliburton, a defense contractor aiding the protracted American war effort. She got discharged from the Guard in 2007 and came home in 2008 to get a degree in special education from Niagara University and to start a family  but after a few years of teaching, she noticed that something wasnt right.

She struggled with health problems for years before doctors discovered what was wrong in 2018. Ellman suffered from a rare adrenal cancer that causes high blood pressure, headaches and a racing heartbeat. The cause? Exposure to toxic burn pits during her deployment to Afghanistan.

Ellmans illness left her too exhausted to continue teaching, and as a result, the VA declared her totally disabled in 2023. But life on disability payments wasnt for her.

It was almost worse than going through the treatment for cancer, Ellman said. It was very depressing to me as a person whos always had a job, whos always had things going on in my life where I felt like I was giving to a cause bigger than myself. It was very difficult.

Given her frequent doctors appointments and the side effects of her treatment  including frequent bouts of nausea  Ellman knew she couldnt return to work for just any employer. But she could go to work for the VA, which offers accommodations for disabled veterans who need time to look after their health.

She got hired as a digital file clerk at the Veterans Benefits Administration last April and spent 10 months helping vets apply for the education aid they are entitled to under the GI Bill. She said she enjoyed the work even though it was a bit repetitive, and whats more, she was good at it. In January, her daily production average was 200%.

In essence, Ellman was doing twice as much work as what was expected of her  until last Tuesday. Ellman, who worked at home because of her disability, tried signing onto her work email on a day she had off, but suddenly she couldnt.

She tried to log in again Wednesday morning, but then her supervisor called her with the bad news. Ellman had been laid off. The reason? She was employed by the federal government for less than a year  and Musks DOGE service had decided to lay off virtually all such probationary federal workers.

Its frustrating because I thought, like: Oh, this (job) is so perfect, said Ellman, whos now 41. And you know, I wasnt doing it because I got a giant paycheck from it. I was doing it because this is something I actually care about.

Ellman said she didnt really need the work. Her husband, Matt, has a good job, and between his salary and her soon-to-be reinstated disability payments, the couple and their two teenage daughters will get by just fine.

But some of Ellmans laid-off colleagues wont.

There are people who have a lot to lose, a lot more than I have to lose in this situation, who cant speak out, who cant come talk to The News, who cant travel down to Washington, D.C., and say something, she said. But I can, and Im going to, because I think its really wrong to dangle this carrot in front of veterans ... and then you take it away from them.

For Ellman, thats not a political statement. She said shes politically unaffiliated and has voted for politicians from both major parties. And over the course of an hour of interviews, she never even mentioned the names Trump or Musk.

But she has some advice for them both.

If theyre really interested in cutting jobs, they should do it in a much more strategic way, Ellman said. She suggested keeping productive employees on the payroll to make sure they can, for example, help veterans get the benefits they deserve.

Schumer doubled down on that recommendation.

I am all for cutting out inefficiency, but you use a scalpel, not a chainsaw, Schumer said. Jobs and care for our veterans in upstate New York is not government waste.
Maharashtra budget session off to stormy start as opposition raises heat on Ajit Pawar's NCP

J. Kumar is an author, journalist and a political commentator based in in Mumbai who writes on crime and Maharashtra politics. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.

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Omar Abdullah on Kashmir: India-Pakistan came closer to settlement during Manmohan Singh's regime

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PM Modi gets praises for his speech at Jahan-e-Khusrau: 'The best speech Ive heard the PM deliver..'

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Tamil Nadu language row: Congress treads cautiously as DMK and BJP slug it out

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News / National

by Staff reporter

The Zimbabwe Exemption Permit Holders Association (Zepha) has urged the Zimbabwean government to facilitate an urgent voluntary repatriation programme for Zimbabweans living in South Africa, citing worsening conditions that have made life increasingly intolerable for many.In a memo addressed to the Zimbabwean ambassador to South Africa, Zepha detailed the hardships faced by Zimbabwean permit holders, who are reportedly being forced to litigate for access to basic services such as healthcare, education, travel, and employment.Zepha stated that it had already initiated a repatriation programme but requires assistance from the Zimbabwean government to aid thousands of returning ZEP holders with accommodation, business opportunities, and policy adjustments to ease their reintegration."Many South Africans believe that Zimbabweans are hapless Zanu-PF victims useful only for their highly sought-after cheap, efficient, and trustworthy labour," the memo reads. "Their assistance for Zimbabwean staff extends only to prolonging exploitation, but not to provide Zimbabweans with the rights required to live full and dignified lives. In my view, they have no interest in the stability of Zimbabweans in South Africa, and the generations that will follow."According to Zepha, Zimbabweans in South Africa are increasingly scapegoated for economic challenges, with many South Africans blaming them for taking jobs, housing, and medical services. The memo also highlights concerns over violence and crime targeting Zimbabweans, often perpetrated by vigilante groups that have operated with impunity.Zepha accuses South African political parties such as the Patriotic Alliance, MK Party, and ActionSA of mainstreaming xenophobic rhetoric, while organisations like Operation Dudula and Put South Africa First have allegedly engaged in violent actions against Zimbabweans. The memo further suggests that these attacks are systematically intensified during election periods and national crises.It also highlights how the South African white minority blames Zanu-PF for Zimbabwe's economic collapse, portraying Zimbabwe as a failed state. The memo accuses mainstream media of perpetuating this narrative, reinforcing negative perceptions of Zimbabweans."The abuse of Zimbabweans in South Africa has caused significant psychological and emotional harm to all Zimbabweans in South Africa. It is a matter that, in the view of many medical doctors and academics, cannot continue," the memo states.Zepha also raises concerns about the treatment of Zimbabwean children in South Africa, arguing that they are being raised under conditions that reinforce a sense of inferiority, as their parents face systematic discrimination and mistreatment.Zepha's memo lists specific instances of discrimination and harassment faced by Zimbabweans in South Africa, including traffic authorities refusing to renew driving licences for Zepha members, followed by targeted roadblocks to penalise foreigners without valid licences. It highlights increased police raids in Zimbabwean-populated communities and reports of banks freezing or suspending accounts of ZEP holders due to expired permits. Employers have allegedly been terminating Zimbabwean workers due to intensified law enforcement checks, while unemployment insurance and pension fund payments have been withheld from dismissed workers. Zimbabwean children have also reportedly been barred from writing exams for lack of study visas, and there are claims of Zimbabweans, including pregnant women, being denied medical treatment at hospitals.Furthermore, Zepha accuses South Africa's Department of Home Affairs of systematically obstructing ZEP holders from applying for permanent residency, despite many having lived and contributed to the economy for decades.Zepha's appeal underscores the need for swift government intervention to ensure a structured and dignified return for Zimbabweans who wish to leave South Africa. The association hopes that by working with the Zimbabwean government, the repatriation process can be expedited, offering returnees the support needed to reintegrate successfully into Zimbabwean society.As tensions rise in South Africa, the fate of thousands of Zimbabweans remains uncertain, with many now looking towards home for a fresh start.
Breaking News Live: EAM S Jaishankar will be on an official visit to the United Kingdom & Ireland from March 4-9

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will be on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland from March 4-9, 2025.

During his visit to UK, EAM will be holding discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Secretary David Lammy and will meet several other dignitaries as well as Indian community members. In Ireland, EAM will be meeting with his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, other dignitaries and members of Indian community.
UP woman on death row in UAE, Shahzadi Khan, executed on February 15: MEA tells Delhi HC

Manjiri Patil

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How Assams ability to attract investments has made it a lodestar

Pratim Ranjan Bose is an independent columnist, researcher, and consultant. His Twitter handle is @pratimbose. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Namrata Agarwal

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India's gig economy is booming but not without challenges

Arun Anand has authored two books on the RSS. His X handle is @ArunAnandLive. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Namrata Agarwal

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TNs anti-Hindi volcano erupts again. Will it get DMK votes this time?

Namrata Agarwal

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Ankita Sengupta

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Why billionaires aren't interested in Trump's $5 million 'gold card': 'No reason for rich people to...'

Ankita Sengupta

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Sunita Williams' homecoming: Date, where and how NASA astronaut's extended space journey will end

MC Science Desk Read the latest and trending science newsstay updated on NASA, ISRO, space missions, planets, asteroids, black holes, AI, quantum physics, galaxy discoveries, and more exciting breakthroughs.

Sheetal Kumari

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Call center uses AI to change how Indian callers sound to western customers

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Ankita Chakravarti

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News / National

by Staff reporter

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has secured US$20 million from international partners, with additional funding from the Treasury, as the Government aims to construct 120 new schools and 300 classrooms this year to address the country's critical infrastructure shortages.Zimbabwe faces a deficit of approximately 3,000 schools, leading to the proliferation of illegal learning institutions. To mitigate this crisis, the Government has adopted a multi-sectoral approach to expedite the construction of schools across the nation.Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo disclosed this development in the National Assembly while responding to concerns raised in the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Primary and Secondary Education's report on school infrastructure. The committee had highlighted numerous challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of basic amenities, absence of disability-friendly facilities, and delays in project completion due to funding constraints.Minister Moyo assured Parliament that the Government is making significant strides in addressing these concerns to ensure quality education for all learners."I must mention that in the 2025 calendar year, we have secured adequate resources to construct new schools. We are targeting not less than 120 new schools," he stated.He further elaborated that funding for 30 schools had already been received from the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion through the National Building Society (NBS). The NBS model, previously used in university infrastructure projects such as those at Chinhoyi University of Technology, will now be extended to build schools across Zimbabwe's ten provinces.Additionally, the Ministry has partnered with international organisations, including the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID), which has committed US$20 million to fund the construction of 50 schools. Of these, 40 will be day schools while 10 will be boarding schools.Minister Moyo emphasized that the new schools will be strategically located in areas where students currently have to travel long distances. He pointed out that international conventions recommend that learners should not have to travel more than five kilometres to school."According to international conventions, learners should not travel more than five kilometres, so priority will be given to areas where learners are walking more than five kilometres to the nearest school," he said.The Ministry will collaborate with Members of Parliament to identify areas most in need of new schools. As part of the 2025 national budget, the Government has allocated resources for constructing 100 schools, while private sector partnerships and individual contributions will help reach the 120-school target for the year. Minister Moyo also confirmed that funds have been secured for the construction of an additional 300 classrooms to accommodate the growing student population.Meanwhile, the Government is also rolling out plans to support schools with funding for income-generating projects. Minister Moyo noted that many schools lack sustainable revenue streams, prompting the Ministry to introduce capacity-building programs for school development committee members."The Ministry is working on evaluating the establishment and operations of commercial ventures at schools. It will also intensify training efforts focusing on project continuity and sustainability to enable school development committees to mobilize resources effectively," he said.The Government's commitment to addressing school infrastructure challenges marks a crucial step towards improving education access and quality in Zimbabwe.
Deblina Halder

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Chinas hidden energy treasure? Survey finds massive thorium deposits that could power the country for 60,000 years

Smriti Mishra

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Surabhi Pandey

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Right before Trump-Zelensky clash, Pentagon was ordered to halt offensive cyber ops against Russia

Surabhi Pandey

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Trump says migrant rape gangs, drug lords greater threat than Putin: 'Dont end up like Europe!'

Armaan Bhatnagar

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Trump slams Zelenskyy for saying the end of the Russia war is still very, very far away

101Reporters

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UK, European leaders join forces to draft Ukraine peace plan to take to US

Deblina Halder

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Just hours after the terse exchange at the White House between Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on one side and US President Trump and Vice President JD Vance on the other, European leaders were quick to voice their full support for the war-torn country.

What the world hoped would be a productive meeting between leaders of the two countries after they traded jabs last week quickly turned into a heated spat, resulting in a shouting match in the White House's Oval Office.

Trump berated Zelenskyy, saying: Youre gambling with World War III, and what youre doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country thats backed you far more than a lot of people say they should have."

Shortly after the heated and at times angry words mainly aimed at Zelenskyy, Europe's top politicians took to X to express their continued unconditional support for Zelenskyy and Ukraine.

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"Ukraine is Europe! We stand by Ukraine," the EU's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas stated.

"Today, it became clear that the free world needs a new leader. It is up to us, Europeans, to take this challenge," she said.

"Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people ... You are never alone dear President Zelenskyy," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted.

Other top officials from the European Union also mirrored von der Leyen's post, further reiterating Brussels' support.

Friedrich Merz, who is likely to become Germany's new chancellor, posted: "We must never confuse agressor and victim in this terrible war."

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Meanwhile, outgoing German leader Olaf Scholz emphasised that no one wants peace more than Ukraine, adding that Kyiv can fully rely on Berlin and Europe.

Many other European leaders, including those of France, UK, Poland, Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Germany, Lithuania, Moldova and Sweden chimed in with their support as well.

French President Emmanuel Macron did not mince words, stating, "There is an aggressor: Russia. There is a victim: Ukraine."

"We were right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago  and to keep doing so."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he "retains unwavering support for Ukraine," in a statement from 10 Downing Street on Friday evening, while his Spanish counterpart Pedro Sanchez wrote on X "Ukraine, Europe stands with you" in three languages  Spanish, English and Ukrainian.

But Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban went against the tide of support for Ukraine and thanked Trump.

Trump took to his own social media platform, Truth Social, shortly after the meeting with Zelenskyy, saying that the rare minerals deal was off.

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"I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations," the US president said.

"I dont want advantage, I want peace. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for peace."

"Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you president, Congress, and the American people," the Ukrainian leader said in a post-meeting message on X on Friday.

"Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that."
UK PM Keir Starmer says he does not accept that US is an unreliable ally

101Reporters

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UN rights chief deeply worried about 'fundamental shift in direction' in US under Trump

101Reporters

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Volodymyr Zelenskiy says he can salvage relationship with US

Deblina Halder

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What to watch when Donald Trump gives his big speech to Congress

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Reporter

Andrew Roberto was raised his whole life on Saipan. He graduated from Saipan Southern High School, holds a degree from Northern Marianas College, and a BA in English from the University of Guam. He once worked for KUAM, UNO Magazine, and the Guam Daily Post.
China, Myanmar, Thailand reaffirm commitment to combat transnational telecom fraud

Xinhua) 15:33, March 03, 2025

BANGKOK, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Relevant departments from China, Myanmar and Thailand recently held a ministerial coordination meeting here on jointly combating transnational telecom fraud crimes. They engaged in in-depth exchanges and reached a series of consensuses on strengthening cooperation.

The meeting highlighted the severe situation posed by transnational telecom fraud crimes, which seriously harm regional economic development and social stability while infringing upon the legitimate rights and interests of citizens of all countries.

Relevant departments in the countries are urged to further deepen international law enforcement cooperation, intensify crackdown efforts, effectively respond to the high incidence of such crimes, minimize the space in which criminal groups can operate, jointly eliminate these criminal networks and resolutely protect the safety and property of their citizens.

The three parties will thoroughly implement the consensus of jointly cracking down on telecom fraud crimes by establishing a regular coordination mechanism, enhancing information sharing, conducting repatriation work and improving the procedures, and continuously increasing their combating efficiency.

Furthermore, the three nations aim to strengthen law enforcement collaboration with other countries to jointly safeguard regional peace and security.

It was revealed that in recent joint law enforcement operations conducted by relevant departments from China, Myanmar and Thailand, over 620 Chinese nationals suspected of telecom fraud were repatriated from Myawaddy, Myanmar.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK, Calif. (AP)  Yosemite National Park employees who recently were fired by the Trump administration worry cuts will affect the experience of visitors and the welfare of wildlife that thrive in the popular vacation destination located in Californias Sierra Nevada.

Yosemite is home to giant sequoia trees and a haven for myriad wildlife species. El Capitan, a 3,000-foot (914-meter) wall of sheer granite and possibly the worlds most fabled rock face, attracts climbers from around the world. Such majestic qualities also are what attracted people to work at the beloved park that is a destination for families from California and throughout the country.

The Trump administration last week fired about 1,000 newly hired National Park Service employees who maintain and clean parks, educate visitors and perform other functions as part of its broad-based effort to downsize government.

Facing outcry, the administration plans to restore at least 50 jobs across the parks. The park service also said in a new memo it will hire more seasonal workers than normal. The park service has about 20,000 employees.

At least a dozen of those who lost their jobs worked at Yosemite.

Olek Chmura, a rock climber who moved to California from Ohio and last year took a job as a custodian at the park, received his letter of termination last week.

He and another laid-off custodian were the only two who worked his section of the park and he fears trash will pile up, restrooms wont be cleaned and maintenance problems will grow, Chmura said.

Youd be amazed with how many diapers I pick up off the side of the road. Beer bottles, toilet paper, all the stuff so you dont have to see. You get to see the park in its true natural beauty, he said.

Getting a job at the park was a dream come true because it allowed him to follow his passion of rock climbing during his time off, Chmura said.

I knew the writing was on the wall but, I mean, nothing will just prepare you for the shock once you get that letter. Because, you know, its everything I love. Its the park service, he said. I mean, our national monuments and parks are just our greatest treasure, and it just ruined my dream, you know?

Public safety also could be at risk since the parks search and rescue teams have been impacted by the layoffs, Chmura said.

Other former employees are concerned with the welfare of wildlife living in the park.

Andria Townsend was a carnivore specialist with the National Park Service, leading research on the fisher, a mammal and member of the weasel family, and the Sierra Nevada red fox, both endangered species.

Townsend started working at the park in October 2023, but a recent promotion to a new position meant she was reclassified as a probationary employee, so her job was eligible for termination.

She said she is worried about the future of wildlife in the park, including animals becoming accustomed to eating garbage left by humans if there is no one to dispose of it properly.

Bigger picture long-term, what does this mean for the state of national parks? What does this mean for wildlife conservation? Its really scary, Townsend said. Its a really uncertain time for those of us who care about conservation and public lands, so I am definitely worried for the future.

The park service says it is reinstating about 5,000 seasonal jobs across numerous parks that were cut as part of a spending freeze ordered by President Donald Trump. Seasonal workers are routinely added during the warm-weather months to serve the millions of visitors who descend on Yosemite each year.

The uncertainty and confusion has lowered morale among park employees and the communities surrounding the park, said Ken Yager, who founded the Yosemite Climbing Association and runs its museum in Mariposa, California, a gateway city to the park.

People around here are pretty depressed, Yager said. Theyre a little worried about whats going to happen. How much further is it going to go?

___

This story has been updated to correct that Townsend began working at the park in October 2023.

By HAVEN DALEY

The Associated Press
Harare  A company in Harares Workington industrial area was targeted by armed robbers on Thursday, with the criminals making off with a staggering US$120,400 in cash. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the incident and is appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects.

According to a police statement, Police are investigating a case of robbery which occurred on 27 February 2025 at a company along Lytton Road, Workington. Five unknown suspects attacked a security guard who was on duty at the company before gaining entry into the offices where they stole US$120,400 cash. Anyone with information is urged to report at any nearest police station.

This incident is part of a growing trend of armed robberies targeting businesses and homes across the country. Many Zimbabweans are now opting to keep their money in company vaults and even their own bedrooms, driven by a lack of trust in the banking sector and fears of sudden, disruptive policy changes by the government regarding currency and financial institutions.

The surge in armed crime has prompted a controversial response from the police, who have increasingly resorted to summary executions of suspected armed robbers upon encounter. This hard-line approach has divided public opinion, with some supporting the tough stance as a necessary deterrent, while others condemn it as a violation of human rights.

In a separate development, police in Bulawayo have apprehended three suspected machete-wielding robbers believed to be part of an organised syndicate terrorising residents of the city.

Aaron Gatsheni (38) from Gwanda, Abel Munkuli (20) from Binga, and Emanuel Moyo (19) from Filabusi recently appeared before Bulawayo regional magistrate Mr Joseph Mabeza, facing charges of armed robbery. They have been remanded in custody until 12 March.

Prosecutor Ms Siphiwe Mhlanga informed the court that the trio was apprehended by detectives from the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) homicide squad following a tip-off from a member of the public. The arrests relate to a robbery committed on 23 February at approximately 10pm, when the suspects targeted the home of Bhekimpilo Ncube, stealing valuables worth R2,000.

Ms Mhlanga detailed the coordinated nature of the attack. Two of the suspects positioned themselves at separate windows, while the third knocked on Ncubes bedroom door.

The complainant, who was asleep, woke up and asked who was there, but received no response, she told the court.

After approximately 10 minutes, the suspect at the door forced a machete blade between the door and its frame, with the tip protruding into the bedroom. He then threatened to stab Ncube while demanding money. Simultaneously, the two suspects at the windows threatened to kill him as he begged them not to inflict harm.

The court heard that one of the suspects, armed with a machete, then forced the bedroom door open, stole Ncubes LG cellphone, and fled with his accomplices. Ncube, who recognised two of the suspects as residents of a neighbouring plot, alerted a neighbour and reported the incident to the police the following day.

Acting on another tip-off from the public, police ambushed and arrested the trio.

The third accused was found in possession of the stolen cellphone, which the complainant positively identified. The second accused was found with a machete with a wooden handle, and the complainant identified the first and second accused as participants in the robbery, said Ms Mhlanga.

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Harare  Despite President Emmerson Mnangagwas recent assurances to selected media editors at State House that he will not seek to extend his rule beyond his constitutionally mandated second term in 2028, his political allies have reignited a contentious campaign for him to remain in power until 2030.

This latest manoeuvre sets the stage for a direct and potentially volatile confrontation between Mnangagwas supporters and war veterans, backed by elements within the military, who are demanding his immediate departure.

Key figures spearheading the 2030 campaign include prominent individuals such as Daniel Garwe, Owen Ncube, Tino Machakaire, Tatenda Mavetera, John Paradza, Lovemore Matuke, Goodwills Masimirembwa, Paul Tungwarara, Edson Chakanyuka Chiherenge, and Robson Mavhenyengwa, among others.

#RenewedBattleLoomsOver2030Project#MnangagwaTeamBackOnCampaignTrail

President Emmerson Mnangagwas political allies are back on a perilous 2030 campaign trail despite their principal recently telling editors from selected media houses at State House in Harare that he will not pic.twitter.com/UFhhzhjS6r  TheNewsHawks (@NewsHawksLive) March 3, 2025

The renewed push for Mnangagwa to stay on beyond his constitutional limit comes in direct opposition to the stance taken by the Zimbabwe National War Veterans Association. Just this past Friday, the associations chairman, Ethan Mathibela, asserted that Mnangagwa must step down due to his perceived failures in leadership.

Daniel Garwe, the Local Government minister and Zanu PF Mashonaland East provincial chairperson, made the remarks while addressing a provincial co-ordinating committee meeting in Marondera, sparking a fresh wave of debate about the future of Zimbabwean democracy.

Garwe asserted that Mnangagwa would be persuaded to extend his tenure, clarifying that this did not necessarily equate to a third term. Instead, he proposed that all elected officials, including councillors, Members of Parliament, and Senators, would remain in office until 2030, with the option for by-elections if necessary.

We want him to take us to 2030; we did not say we want a third term. Dont put words in our mouths. We only said, President, take us to 2030, Garwe stated emphatically. This means that if you are a councillor now, you will remain a councillor until 2030, just like MPs and senators. If you dont want that, we will hold a byelection to replace you.

Garwe argued that Mnangagwas extensive institutional memory and experience made him the ideal leader to guide the country forward.

So far we have already agreed to persuade the President. We are going to persuade him to understand where we are coming from and where we want him to take us to, Garwe told the assembled delegates.

He emphasised Mnangagwas long-standing presence within Zanu PF, highlighting his role since the partys formation and his subsequent leadership positions, which have equipped him with invaluable knowledge and expertise.

In my view, His Excellency is the only person who is more senior even among war veterans who has got the institutional memory of the party because it was formed when he was there, as a youth, Garwe added. All the stages that followed thereafter, he was there, he has all that in institutional memory that we need and that must be documented coupled with the beautiful, brilliant policies of leadership that he has demonstrated so far.

While Mnangagwa recently stated that he would leave office when his term ends in 2028 and would not be swayed by loyalists to prolong his stay, Garwes pronouncements suggest that efforts to persuade the 82-year-old leader are already underway.

Speaking to editors in Harare recently, Mnangagwa reaffirmed his commitment to Zimbabwes constitutional term limits, which allow a president to serve two five-year terms. However, Mnangagwas loyalists have remained defiant, insisting they will persuade him to stay on.

Garwes statement has ignited concerns about its implications for Zimbabwes democracy and the rule of law. Critics argue that extending the Presidents term could undermine the countrys constitutional framework and perpetuate authoritarianism.

Prior to this, the ex-combatants had openly declared war on Mnangagwa, accusing him of attempting to extend his rule to 2030 and presiding over a kleptocracy  a government run by thieves  allegedly involving his relatives, clan members, and close associates.

One of the war veteran leaders, Blessed Geza, is currently being sought by police after launching scathing attacks on Mnangagwa, calling for his resignation. Geza now faces four criminal charges, including undermining the authority of and insulting the President.

Adding to the tension, Blessed Mhlanga, the journalist who aired the war veterans video attacks on Mnangagwa, has been arrested and detained without bail, raising concerns about freedom of the press.

After a period of strategic retreat, Mnangagwas allies have reportedly decided to attempt to persuade him to extend his rule to 2030  a thinly veiled attempt to secure a third term in office.

This development follows Mnangagwas own ambiguous remarks, in which he stated that he would not be persuaded by persuaders to stay on. Instead, he claimed he would persuade the persuaders to abandon their efforts, asserting his commitment to constitutionalism and implying that his supporters, including government ministers, are not as committed to upholding the constitution.

Critics point out the irony of Mnangagwas claim to be a constitutionalist, given that he initially came to power through a coup in November 2017, which ousted the late former president Robert Mugabe from his 37-year reign. This makes him, in the eyes of many, the ultimate constitutional violator or subverter.

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A weekly roundup of the things happening in Europe that they dont like to talk about

Bulgarians are protesting against the forced adoption of the Euro: People in Europe are slowly coming out against the EU.

The leading candidate in the first presidential round of the cancelled Romanian election has been arrested as he travelled to submit his candidacy in the election re-run, where he is the current favorite. The so called hard-right TikTok messiah, Calin Georgescus vision of neutrality and working with all parties was deemed contrary to European ideals and so they had him labelled as an anti-European Russian apologist. Subsequently, the election was cancelled on the orders of the EU commission (who also said theyd do it in Germany too if the electorate didnt deliver the right result) on the spurious grounds that Russia had interfered with the election because of a Tik-Tok based digital campaign. This campaign had nothing whatsoever to do with Russia and neither did it have anything to do with Calin Georgescu himself (who said that he doesnt even use Tik-Tok), in fact it was the work of the current Romanian ruling party themselves, but the European Court of Human rights refused to overturn the decision of the Romanian Constitutional Court (the judges there being political appointees put in place by the current ruling party).

Even the runner up in the cancelled election has come out against the ruling: Today, the Romanian State has brought democracy to its knees, said Elena Lasconi, The economy is collapsing, democracy is being destroyed and the country is heading for anarchy. And now Musk has weighed in (in case you are having trouble accessing the site via that link then try this one).

Dont forget: All of this is because Georgescu is against building Europes largest NATO base in Romania, thus making his country the primary target in any conflict with Russia.

Plus Ca Change, Plus Cest La Meme Chose: After the collapse of the inept Traffic Light Coalition led by Olaf Scholtz, the Germans went to the polls to elect a new government. Turnout was high (>80%) buoyed up by a fearful electorate that were desperate for a change. As the results came in commentators were juggling party numbers in order to form a coalition.

It was all about the numbers needed to ensure that the AfD didnt become part of the government. The ruling elites did everything just short of banning the party (it came close) to intimidate them but still they retained their popularity. Alice Weidel, the AfD leader, didnt come across as particularly radical in her interview with Elon Musk, in fact her policies came close to what the CDUs should have been. The end result of all this anti-AfD skullduggery, including ensuring that the breakaway (from Die Linke) BSW was deprived of publicity and a debate platform (and possibly a Bundestag seat  they got around 4.97% of the vote and needed 5% to get a seat), is that the very same people who the electorate thought theyd voted out have just come back in again, only with a different figurehead.

In order to understand why the AfD is regarded as a Neo-Nazi party we need to look at the electoral map, together with a map of Germany to provide bearings.

The AfDs heartland is the old East Germany (minus Berlin and Leipzig). The area has never caught up economically since reunification and a lot of violent Neo Nazi groups took root there, causing a significant rise in heavy handed police and state repression.

So what concerns the German elites isnt the party itself, but their supporters. And no doubt some of them are fascists but there are an awful lot of people there that are not and theyre demanding change. As it happens, the AfD has now become the official opposition, which means that not only are they difficult to ban, but they can sit back and watch as the rickety coalition, based on numbers rather than a meeting of minds over ideological differences, falls apart. If you want to find out more about conditions within Germany then listen to this podcast hosted by Peter Lavell at RT and to understand more about the parties, then watch this video by the Duran (Note: it is long but thorough).

Now You Can Repay Us For The War We Started: The minerals deal in the Ukraine, which is really just a heads of agreement (full text), is close to being signed after pressure was put on Zelenskyy to heal the rift with Trump (this was first written before that Press Conference). Leaving aside the fact that the country will have few to no assets left fully under its own control to allow for economic reconstruction  especially given that outside Investors and local Oligarchs already own a great deal of the best farmland, its prime resource accounting for 40% of its exports  the deal still may not be as good as it seems for the US. For a start, the rare earth deposits are not there in viable quantities, many of them lie under areas controlled by Russia and the French also want them. But the most glaring problem of all is the legality of any document signed by an illegitimate President, who has already served out his term and currently rules under martial law.

And does anyone believe for one second that the Russians would let the US take effective control of Odessa?

European and US Energy prices: You can get a quick snapshot of the competitiveness of an economy by looking at their energy prices  for example look at what Britain charges its Industrial users for Electricity. Many of the disparities between the prices are due to tax policies, such as Net Zero adjustments and to pay green subsidies. And there are various other local factors; for example, the price of Diesel in the UK was the result of a decision by the government to discourage its use  after previously promoting it as a better choice than gasoline because you get more miles per gallon with a diesel engine, classic bait and switch.

The lower prices of electricity in France are due to their extensive use of nuclear power. It is expected that electricity prices will start to rise there due to the price of raw uranium increasing after they were ejected from Niger (they used to pay around 90c per pound from their mines in Niger, the current spot price of yellowcake uranium is $56.48 per pound) and maintenance issues across their reactor fleet due to their age.

The following are all in $US and represent the average price, so the actual pump prices may differ depending on the locality within the country.

Speaking of energy, the Baltic minnows (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania), decided to disconnect their electricity grid from the Russian grid. Russia supplied the base load supplies (to help with peak demand) and to synchronize the frequency. They have, instead, connected to the European system. The changeover event was the subject of a rather surreal video featuring Ursula von der Leyen.

What happened next was a surprise for nobody, except the EU apparently (or maybe they just dont care, the narrative is more important than the grim realities in the EU)  Price explosion in the Baltics after disconnection from the Russian grid. The wholesale MWh prices increased dramatically immediately after the changeover as you can see from the table below. The thick line marks the transition.

And theyre still rising. The knock-on effects could be seen almost immediately, with Estonian businesses being forced to shut. The biggest user of electricity in Estonia, the Estonian Cell pulp mill in Kunda, has ceased operating due to surging electricity costs (they ought to move to Russia, its not far and the feedstock they use  wood  is cheaper there). Meanwhile, people living the European dream in the Baltics are stocking up on candles.

Ursula made a big deal that the changeover was due to Russian energy blackmail. Which, if it were true, may be grounds for the severing of ties, but is it? Back in the early days of the Special Military Operation, there were two separate strands of dual pipelines that went under the Baltic Sea connecting Germany to the Russian gas fields: Nordstream 1 and Nordstream 2. Nordsteam 1, the older of the two, was already pumping gas but Nordstream 2, although filled with gas, needed German official authorization to start operations.

Under intense pressure from the Biden administration, the German government refused to let it start. So only Nordstream 1 was de jure but not de facto capable of supplying the gas Europe desperately needed.

The problems were compounded when Europe, under pressure from Janet Yellen, decided to confiscate all of the Russian assets currently residing in Euroclear. These assets, over $300 billion worth, were mainly payments for previous deliveries of gas and other commodities.

What made it worse was that every time the Russians were paid in dollars they were seized, which meant Russia was supplying gas for free.

Understandably miffed, the Russians stated that in future they wanted to be paid in rubles, since that was the only way left to be paid at all. This became blackmail point number one: The Russians are deliberately holding up deliveries of gas with impossible demands.

Blackmail point number two came when the turbines that supplied the pipelines were due for scheduled maintenance. These turbines were made by a division of a British Company, Rolls Royce, which was subsequently taken over by a German company, Siemens. Even though they were built in Britain they were serviced in Canada and the Canadians simply refused to hand them back after the service due to sanctions. In the end a workaround was conceived, between Germany and Canada, whereby the turbines were delivered to Germany and they were to forward them to Russia. The problem was that from the Russian viewpoint the paperwork wasnt correct; meaning they were shipped with a dubious chain of custody and so the Russians wouldnt accept them. Remember, they suffered the experience of the CIA sabotaging exactly this type of turbine in Siberia back in 1982 (using technology they supplied via Canada), leading to a massive explosion that was visible from space. And the CIA may even be linked to this pipeline explosion that killed 575 people (181 children) and injured over 800 more. So, they have a right to be cautious.

Then there were the breakdowns, which caused further outages, such as an oil leak on one of the turbines, which caused Gazprom to reduce the supply further. The Europeans said that the leak was no big deal but the Russians, understandably, were concerned that the loss of lubricating oil could cause the turbine to seize and catch fire: something you REALLY dont want on a major gas pipeline. And the EU megaphoned that it was yet more confirmation that Russia was trying to hurt the European economy by reducing the gas supply.

This is Putins rather tart reply to the accusations.

You can read a full report on the Nord Stream turbine saga here.

As a bit of background, Deutsche Welle, the venerable public broadcaster in Germany produced an English language podcast back in 2022 on how Germany would cope without Russian gas. Its worth a listen if youve got an hour to spare as it confirms that the elites knew the problems the disconnect from Russia would cause but they went ahead anyway.

Whats Happening With The Italian Grimaldi Shipping Company as it suffers its 6th serious fire on board one of its vessels in the last few years?

What Made the British Establishment So Angry at Leaving the EU? This is a bit dated (it was Margaret Thatchers favorite TV program), but as Sir Humphrey Appleby, the deep state civil servant, said, the policies have been successfully used over the last 500 years, so why stop now. And so, they never did.

And now consider how the UK is playing the EU off against Russia.

Prepare Yourself For A Shock According to a newly declassified report, produced by the Institute for Defense Analyses for the US Defense Department, Israel really does have nuclear weapons. Will the release of this report affect the possible resumption of talks on the Iran JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) aka The Iran Nuclear Deal?

Why Is Putin So Popular in Russia? Even though he has obviously failed to become a proper dictator (Golden Rule: you only need to be elected once), he still enjoys popular support that Western politicians can only dream of:

It just might have something to do with this; where, he arranged, through his presidential fund, for talented young musicians to study away from the horrors of the war in the Donbass and then ended up on the docket at the ICC.

You can read the full story here.

Or possibly this: where he drove himself around Mariupol, a short time after the Neo-Nazi Azov battalion, who had terrorized the city for 10 years, were defeated to see how the reconstruction was going. As a matter of interest; many of the civilian construction workers there were from the DPRK  so there really were North Koreans near the front lines in Russia.

Or it could have been this: where a little girl lined up for hours to see Putin when he visited Dagestan and ended up not seeing him. So

Then again, it could be this:

Compared to:

If you want to know how this manifests itself in terms of the actual cost of living in the two premier (and most expensive) cities: here are the up to date numbers on the cost of living in New York Versus Moscow. The tool on the website can be manipulated to compare less costly cities (even in other countries) to provide you with a fuller picture.

As a quick snapshot: according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the monthly recommended minimum amount of money for food per person per month in the US is $504 and in Russia it is $178.
Between the return of the Music City Food & Wine Festival and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corps Dine Nashville, we are in the middle of a really busy period for culinary events. But there's one more important annual event that shouldn't fall through the cracks while youre planning your calendar.

Dining Out for Life is scheduled for May 1 this year, but there may well be events throughout the week, including weekend brunches, special restaurant buy-outs and even bar and food truck events. Nashville Cares turns 40 years old this year, which marks four decades of providing care and compassion to Middle Tennesseans afflicted by HIV and AIDS. I was in the Bay Area during the late 1980s, and I remember how AIDS was treated as a frightening and central part of society. The fact that Nashville was already reaching out to help the local community long before the national eye was focused on the disease is pretty remarkable.

Besides being a landmark year for Nashville Cares, the organization is really at an important inflection point. Thanks to years of research and medical discoveries, AIDS has become something that we can actually talk about curing. Treatments have already turned the disorder into a chronic, survivable disease, and ongoing research has been making tremendous progress.

But these days, the community is worried that funding will be cut back or cut off, that access to treatments will be eliminated, that the old stigmas will return. Its a scary time, but the volunteers and staff at Nashville Cares and Dining Out for Life are moving forward undeterred!

+3 The Return of the Music City Food & Wine Festival Get ready for three days and nights of eating and drinking at Centennial Park, April 24-27

The list of participating restaurants is still coming together, but organizers are already ahead of last years pace for dining opportunities. In case youre not familiar with the structure of DOFL, heres how it works: You go out to dinner, pay your tab, and a portion of your bill is donated to Nashville Cares. Thats it! It couldnt be simpler.

To expand, restaurants generously sign up to participate in Dining Out for Life and commit to donating between 25 and 100 percent of the receipts for May 1. They can choose which meals they want to include, so some do breakfast, brunch, lunch and/or dinner. The restaurants can also choose whether to include bar proceeds as well.

Nashville Cares helps sign up hosts for some of the restaurants. These volunteers basically throw a dinner party by inviting friends from their social circles or business connections. The beauty of this kind of dinner party is that your guests actually pay for their own meals and everyone is supporting a crucial cause in the community at the same time.

Ill remind you closer to the event when more of the Dining Out for Life restaurants have been finalized so you can pick where youll want to take part. Until then, if youre a restaurant who is interested in participating, reach out to the DOFL committee to find out more, including how this can benefit your restaurant in terms of marketing. If youre interested in becoming a host or are a regular at a restaurant that you think should participate, theres a quick questionnaire on the DOFL website for you to fill out, and the staff will help connect you with a restaurant.

As a longtime volunteer and host, I can guarantee that this is one of the easiest and most fun ways to do good for the city. Hosting a dinner party where somebody else does all the cooking and cleaning up is a dream. Knowing that youre helping to care for community members with AIDS and HIV is a dream come true!

Make sure to mark your calendar for May 1, and stay tuned for more info as restaurants sign up.
A Nashvillian and Brentwood High School graduate has been revealed as the acting administrator of the newly formed federal Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which has been doling out controversial cuts across the federal government.

On Tuesday, The New York Times reported that an unnamed White House official identified Amy Gleason as DOGE's acting administrator, which was then confirmed by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday.

Leavitt called Gleason a career official who has been in the role for quite some time, several weeks, maybe a month. But according to reporters questioning Leavitt, Gleason's role was apparently unknown to some DOGE staff until the story broke in the press.

New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman told CNN on Thursday: I don't think she didn't know she was the DOGE administrator, which some people have been suggesting  I think she did know that. I certainly don't think she expected it to get rolled out yesterday, and announced yesterday.

Who Is Amy Gleason?

Gleasons now-deleted LinkedIn profile stated she was a senior adviser with the United States Digital Service, which was founded in 2014 to improve and simplify the digital experience between citizens and government websites, namely Healthcare.gov, which experienced a problematic launch in 2013.

President Donald Trump reorganized and renamed the agency to the United States DOGE Service on his first day by executive order.

Gleason is a graduate of Brentwood High School and attended the University of Tennessee from 1990 to 1993. She also earned a certificate in gamification through Coursera from University of Pennsylvania in 2013, and attended Pasco-Hernando State College from 2018 to 2019, where she studied health care management.

Vanderbilt Poll: MAGA Republicans Outnumber Traditional GOP Supporters Survey shows 52 percent of party followers aligned with Trump compared to 37 percent in 2023

Gleason previously served as the CEO of CareSync, a health care technology company, and volunteered as the vice president of research for the Cure JM Foundation, a nonprofit that funds research into juvenile myositis, an autoimmune disease that her daughter suffers from.

In an archived post from the White House website during President Barack Obama's second term, Gleason was named one of the 2015 Champions of Change, a program that recognized influential and accomplished people across various fields.

My challenge to our entire healthcare system, and especially the innovators looking to make it better, put the patient in the center, Gleason wrote in a 2015 blog post on the White House website. Break up the silos of information that prevent individualized medicine to take root and grow into something beautiful.

Combine the data, all of it, including genetics, medical records information, patient-generated data, with the collaborative, innovative minds of Americans who will create amazing discoveries to improve healthcare. Its the American way, and it is time that we, since were all patients, demand it in healthcare.

That 2015 blog post noted that she was then a resident of Tampa, Fla. While she's listed as a Nashville resident on her LinkedIn profile, she is not listed on any public property records in either Davidson County or Williamson County.

She also previously worked as a nurse and gave a 2020 TED Talk in which she spoke of the challenges of data management in health care and said her work with U.S. Digital Service had been in partnership with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid.

She also spoke about her work with USDS in a 2021 podcast.

One thing that I've learned about joining the government is you get to work on really cool problems that affect all of Americans, Gleason said during the TED Talk.

DOGE under Musk control

Billionaire Elon Musk, the world's richest man, had initially been named as the head of DOGE, a role he's publicly embraced. The agency has worked with little public oversight and transparency while firing government employees and cutting funding across the federal government, actions that have impacted everything from the Department of Veterans Affairs to the National Parks Service.

A flurry of politicians and lawyers have decried the actions of DOGE as illegal, with numerous lawsuits targeting the new department's actions.

Republican U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee's 2nd Congressional District serves on the new House DOGE subcommittee and recently told the Williamson Scene that DOGE could possibly last only a matter of months because, he said, some Republicans could lose our courage.

On Feb. 14, CNN reported that the ongoing federal cuts resulted in the firing of hundreds of staffers from the National Nuclear Security Administration, the agency that manages the nation's stockpile of nuclear weapons  but the officials doing the cuts failed to realize the dangerous impact on national security.

+3 On the Hill: Feb. 17-21 TSU updates State Building Commission on finances; protesters gather on Presidents Day against DOGE

Some of those staffers had their jobs reinstated, but according to NBC News, the agency has had trouble actually contacting some of those terminated employees because we do not have a good way to get in touch with those personnel.

The Trump-Musk alliance has led to nationwide protests against the Trump administration, including in Nashville, and led some Democrats to tease the president with the phrase President Musk. Last week, televisions inside the Department of Housing and Urban Development were hacked and displayed an AI video of Trump kissing the feet and sucking the toes of Musk with the words long live the real king.

This article was first published by our sister publication, the Williamson Scene.
CIA officers lose bid to block firings tied to Trumps DEI order

A federal judge upheld the termination of 51 CIA and ODNI officers tied to DEI programs, siding with Trumps executive order dismantling such initiatives.

The officers argued that their firings were politically motivated, but the court ruled that the CIA director has broad authority to terminate employees for national security reasons.

The officers were given three options: immediate retirement, deferred resignation with pay until September, or termination by May 20.

Judge Trenga acknowledged the officers difficult situation but ruled the law did not support their claims for reinstatement or reassignment.

The case reflects a broader national debate over DEI programs, with Trumps order emphasizing merit-based hiring over identity-focused initiatives.

A federal judge on Thursday declined to halt the termination of dozens of CIA officers tied to DEI programs in a decisive ruling that underscores the ongoing debate over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in federal agencies.

The decision aligns with President Donald Trumps executive order dismantling DEI efforts across the federal government, emphasizing a return to merit-based hiring and operations. While the affected officers argue their firings are politically motivated and unjust, the court ruled that the CIA director holds broad authority to terminate employees in the interest of national security.

The case, heard by U.S. District Judge Anthony Trenga in Virginia, involved 51 CIA and Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) officers who were placed on administrative leave following Trumps January 22 executive order. The order labeled DEI programs as illegal and immoral and mandated their elimination across federal agencies.

The plaintiffs, many of whom were temporarily assigned to DEI-related roles, argued that their terminations were arbitrary and violated their constitutional rights. However, Judge Trenga ruled that the law grants CIA Director John Ratcliffe sweeping authority to dismiss employees deemed unnecessary for national interests.

A difficult situation for officers

The plaintiffs found themselves in an unenviable position, caught between the shifting priorities of presidential administrations. Many of the officers had been assigned to DEI programs under the previous administration, which had championed such initiatives as part of broader civil rights efforts. However, with Trumps order designed to return to merit-based hiring, their roles were abruptly deemed obsolete.

They had the misfortune of being last assigned to a DEI program, Judge Trenga remarked during the hearing, acknowledging the difficult situation faced by the officers. Despite this sympathy, the judge ruled that the law did not support their claims for reinstatement or reassignment.

The officers were given three options: retire immediately, accept a deferred resignation program with pay through September 30, or face termination on May 20. Their lawsuit argued that the firings were not based on national security concerns but rather on political disputes over the efficacy of DEI initiatives. None of these officers activities was or is illegal, their filing stated. At no time have the agencies employing plaintiffs contended that they individually engaged in any misconduct, nor are they accused of poor performance.

Trumps vision for merit-based governance

Trumps executive order marked a significant shift in federal policy, calling for the elimination of DEI offices, equity-focused action plans, and related grants and contracts, arguing that such programs had corrupted institutions by prioritizing identity-based considerations over merit.

The ruling is part of a larger national debate over the role of DEI programs in both public and private sectors. These initiatives often prioritize identity over merit, leading to divisive outcomes and undermining institutional integrity. Although it represents a victory for Trumps vision of a merit-based federal workforce, it leaves the affected officers in a precarious position. Many of them had dedicated years to serving their country, only to find their careers upended by a shift in political priorities and unfortunate timing due to their temporary assignments to DEI programs.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NBCNews.com

USAToday.com
Mattias Desmets book warns of modern, tech-driven totalitarianism

Mattias Desmet's "The Psychology of Totalitarianism" focuses on a modern, tech-driven totalitarianism, contrasting with past dictatorships.

Governments are increasing control over private lives, silencing dissent and suppressing alternative viewpoints.

Desmet discusses mass formation, a psychological process that undermines individual thinking and promotes collective behavior.

The 2020 pandemic highlighted this new totalitarianism, with lockdowns, "scientific" mandates, and harmful policies driven by mass formation.

To fight this, Desmet calls for embracing uncertainty, empathy, and individual creativity to transcend a mechanistic worldview.

In his profoundly relevant book, "The Psychology of Totalitarianism," Mattias Desmet offers a chilling analysis of how totalitarianism is not just a relic of the past but a subtle and pervasive force in contemporary society.

Desmet's journey begins with a realization: A new form of totalitarianism was quietly taking root, driven by technological advancements and bureaucratic control. Unlike the historical totalitarian regimes led by charismatic dictators like Stalin or Hitler, this new form of totalitarianism is characterized by the unassuming figures of bureaucrats and technocrats.

Governments have been gradually tightening their grip on private lives, often justified by the need for security in the wake of events like the 9/11 attack. This erosion of privacy and the silencing of alternative voices, particularly in debates about climate change, have created a fertile ground for a hyper-strict governmental demand from within the population itself.

The rise of "woke" culture and the climate movement has further fueled this demand, deeming traditional methods inadequate for addressing perceived threats like terrorism, climate change, and viruses.

To understand this new totalitarianism, Desmet delves into the psychological process of mass formation, a form of group hypnosis that erodes ethical self-awareness and critical thinking. This process is insidious, subtly influencing individuals to sacrifice personal interests for the collective, become intolerant of dissent, and accept pseudo-scientific propaganda. It transcends logic and reason, leading to behaviors that are often shocking.

The replication crisis in scientific research, which began in 2005, exposed significant flaws in the scientific community. Up to 85 percent of research papers in some fields were found to be reaching incorrect conclusions, yet most researchers remained confident in their methods.

This crisis highlighted a fundamental flaw in the mechanistic-materialistic view of the world, which reduces everything to numbers and statistics, creating a "scientific fiction" that bears little resemblance to reality. This scientific fiction, Desmet argues, has fueled the rise of totalitarianism by eroding the ability to distinguish between fact and fiction.

The coronavirus crisis of 2020 exemplified the dangers of this new totalitarianism. The world witnessed unprecedented lockdowns, with countries following China's example and placing large populations under house arrest. The transfer of power to expert virologists, intended to provide accurate "scientific" information, revealed its own set of flaws. The statistics and policies were riddled with mistakes, and the promises of freedom after vaccinations were often unfulfilled. The reliance on numbers created an illusion of objectivity, blinding people to the subjective nature of the data and leading to policies that were more destructive than the virus itself.

The coronavirus crisis also highlighted the psychological dynamics of mass formation. Conditions such as widespread loneliness, lack of meaning and free-floating anxiety made the population vulnerable to the narrative of a deadly virus and the promise of control through lockdowns and vaccines. This process provided a psychological gain, as the anxiety was linked to a specific cause, and society regained a sense of coherence and meaning through a common struggle. The leaders of the masses, driven by a fanatical belief in the ideology, played a crucial role in this process, often blind to the absurdity and destructiveness of their actions.

Desmet's message is clear: To combat this new totalitarianism, we must transcend the mechanistic worldview that has brought us to this point. This involves embracing the uncertainty and complexity of life, recognizing that the essence of things is not rationally knowable.

We need to cultivate a new form of knowledge based on empathy and resonance with the world around us, valuing individuality and creativity over conformity and control. This means letting go of the illusion of control and embracing the art of living with uncertainty.

In "The Psychology of Totalitarianism," Desmet provides a critical and thought-provoking analysis of how totalitarianism is evolving in the modern era. Ultimately, the choice is ours: will we continue down the path of control and conformity, or will we embrace a new way of being?

Watch this video about Mattias Desmet's book "The Psychology of Totalitarianism."

This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Brighteon.ai

Brighteon.com
Sarah Westall on the Health Ranger Report: The new frontier of PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE

Sarah Westall, formerly a leader in the telecom industry at US West, transitioned into a tech critic after recognizing the darker aspects of technology.

Fifth-generation warfare targets civilian populations rather than military forces, aiming to control minds and bodies.

This form of warfare combines visible tactics like social media propaganda with invisible techniques such as frequency manipulation.

Westall and Mike Adams discussed the use of sophisticated psyops in the digital age, with the COVID-19 pandemic serving as a contemporary case study.

The discussion covers advanced technologies like Neuralink, which, while offering medical benefits, raise significant ethical concerns about potential misuse for mass control.

The Health Ranger Mike Adams and technology expert Sarah Westall discussed the evolving landscape of psychological warfare and the technologies being wielded against humanity on the "Health Ranger Report."

The conversation delved into the intricacies of fifth-generation warfare, the weaponization of technology and practical solutions to protect oneself in this new paradigm. Formerly a prominent executive in the technology sector, Westall eventually turned over a new leaf  culminating in her creation of the "Fifth Generation Warfare and Mind Control Technologies" series.

Westall's journey from a prominent position in the telecom industry to her current role as a tech critic offers a unique perspective on the power and potential of technology. Starting at US West, where she led the systems network and design division, the visionary thought leader and investigative journalist was instrumental in building the framework of the internet.

Her early enthusiasm for the positive potentials of technology, however, gave way to a sobering realization of the darker side of these tools in the hands of those with nefarious intentions. Westall stressed that scientists and tech professionals need to understand the power of these tools and the ethical implications of their work.

Fifth-generation warfare, according to Westall, marks a significant departure from traditional military conflicts. Instead of targeting enemy forces, this form of warfare bypasses the military and directly manipulates civilian populations. The goal is to control minds and bodies to implement specific agendas.

Westall described this as a "360-degree psyop" that combines visible tactics like social media propaganda with invisible technologies such as frequency manipulation. One striking example she cited was the 1991 Gulf War, where Voice to Skull technology was used to beam messages directly into the brains of Iraqi soldiers, convincing them to surrender.

The sophistication of these psyops has only increased in the digital age. Westall and Adams discussed the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as a contemporary example, where a combination of media propaganda and psychological operations was used to shape public behavior. Richard Lighthouse's research with Targeted Justice revealed that people were receiving subliminal messages to get vaccinated, emphasizing the extent to which modern psy-ops can infiltrate the human mind.

The threat of mind control technologies

The conversation then turned to more advanced mind control technologies like Neuralink, the brain-computer interface developed by Elon Musk. While these technologies hold promise for medical applications, they also pose significant ethical concerns. Westall warned that the same technology that can help paraplegics regain movement could be used to control and manipulate individuals on a mass scale. (Related: FDA approves Elon Musks Neuralink brain implants that seek to CONTROL the human mind.)

"Yuval [Noah] Harari said we have about 10 to 15 years before we lose free will," Westall stated. "The technology is moving in that direction, and we need to take this warning seriously."

Given the pervasive nature of these technologies, Adams and Westall provided practical advice for individuals to protect themselves:

Awareness : Being aware of the methods used in psychological operations is the first line of defense. Understanding the tactics can help you recognize and resist manipulation.

: Being aware of the methods used in psychological operations is the first line of defense. Understanding the tactics can help you recognize and resist manipulation. Nutrition and detoxification : Maintaining good nutrition and detoxifying your body from heavy metals and other toxins can enhance your mental clarity and resilience.

: Maintaining good nutrition and detoxifying your body from heavy metals and other toxins can enhance your mental clarity and resilience. De-Google yourself : Move away from mainstream tech platforms like Google, Facebook and YouTube. Use alternative platforms that prioritize privacy and freedom.

: Move away from mainstream tech platforms like Google, Facebook and YouTube. Use alternative platforms that prioritize privacy and freedom. Use private networks : Consider using private networks and decentralized systems like Bastyon to ensure your communications remain secure.

: Consider using private networks and decentralized systems like Bastyon to ensure your communications remain secure. Emotional regulation: Avoid reacting impulsively to sensational news or events. Take a step back, think rationally and avoid being drawn into emotional manipulation.

Westall emphasized the need for a rational, broad-based movement to counteract the effects of fifth-generation warfare. This movement should include people from all walks of life, not just religious groups, to bring sanity back to institutions and society. According to her, his movement needs smart, rational and sane people to step up and say "enough."

As the interview concluded, Adams and Westall agreed on the urgent need for individuals to take proactive steps to protect their minds and bodies. The technologies being developed and deployed in the name of progress can quickly become tools of control if not used ethically.

By staying informed, maintaining physical and mental health, and using alternative, decentralized systems, individuals can resist the tide of psychological warfare and preserve their freedom.

Follow Brainwashed.news for more news about mind control and psychological warfare.

Watch the full interview between Sarah Westall and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

ReFounding America with Dr. Peter Breggin: Censorship is key to control public opinion and people  Brighteon.TV.

Mind control? Scientists have discovered how to use nanoparticles to remotely control behavior!

Pentagon advisor wants to create mind control neuro-weapons. This should terrify us all.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

SarahWestall.com

Mind-Control.net
Scott Preslers urgent warning: The most important election is April 1stand no ones paying attention

One of the most important elections in America is happening on April 1st and barely anyone is paying attention. Its so crucial that conservative activist Scott Presler has issued a dire warning that every conservative should be talking about Wisconsins Supreme Court election. Why? Because George Soros is trying to buy the courtagain. His goal is a mixed bag of Marxist maneuvers, but the biggest one is gerrymandering. If he gets his candidate on the bench, theyll redraw congressional maps and set the stage for Dems to take back the House in 2026.

(Article republished from Revolver.news)

This is a big deal, and Scott is stunned that nobodys talking about it. We finally have a shot at stopping Soros in his tracks, yet conservatives seem asleep at the wheel.

Will we ever learn?

Scott Presler:

Every conservative in America should be talking about the Wisconsin Supreme Court election on April 1st. George Soros is trying to buy the Court, so liberals can gerrymander Wisconsin congressional maps & take the House in 2026. Im shocked at how many people dont care. Our candidate is Brad Schimel. You can follow & support @TeamSchimel. Get everyone you know in Wisconsin to vote on Tuesday, April 1st.

Our candidate is Brad Schimel. You can follow & support @TeamSchimel. Get everyone you know in Wisconsin to vote on ??Tuesday, April 1st.  ThePersistence (@ScottPresler) February 26, 2025

The Soros-backed WI Supreme Court candidate is Judge Susan Crawforda loud and proud leftist puppet who checks every box on the radical agenda.

Read more at: Revolver.news
Supreme Court poised to reshape workplace discrimination law: A victory for equal treatment or a threat to DEI initiatives?

The U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to make it easier for plaintiffs from majority groups (e.g., white or straight individuals) to file "reverse discrimination" lawsuits, potentially reshaping how workplace bias claims are handled under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Marlean Ames, a heterosexual Ohio woman, alleges she was denied a promotion and demoted in favor of less qualified LGBTQ+ colleagues, claiming her sexual orientation was the deciding factor. Lower courts dismissed her case, citing a higher evidentiary standard for majority-group plaintiffs.

During oral arguments, both conservative and liberal justices expressed concerns about the "background circumstances" rule, which requires majority-group plaintiffs to provide more evidence than minority plaintiffs. Justices suggested the rule may conflict with Title VIIs mandate to protect all individuals equally.

A ruling in Ames favor could embolden lawsuits challenging workplace diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, particularly in conservative-leaning states. Conservative groups have already supported Ames, while civil rights organizations warn such a ruling could undermine efforts to address systemic discrimination.

If the Supreme Court revives Ames case, it could set a precedent making it easier for majority-group plaintiffs to pursue discrimination claims, potentially leading to a surge in lawsuits. The ruling could also reignite debates over DEI policies and their role in addressing historical inequities.

The U.S. Supreme Court appears ready to lower the bar for so-called "reverse discrimination" lawsuits, a move that could fundamentally alter how workplace bias claims are adjudicated. At the heart of the case is Marlean Ames, a 60-year-old Ohio woman who claims she was denied a promotion and demoted because she is heterosexual. The justices apparent willingness to revive her lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for workplace diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which have already faced significant backlash from conservatives.

The case that could redefine discrimination law

Marlean Ames, a longtime employee of Ohios Department of Youth Services, alleges that in 2019 she was passed over for a promotion in favor of a gay woman and later demoted in favor of a gay man. Ames contends that both individuals were less qualified than her and that her sexual orientation was the deciding factor. Her lawsuit, filed under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, was dismissed by lower courts, which ruled that she failed to meet the heightened evidentiary standard required for plaintiffs from "majority groups."

The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, for instance, concluded that Ames had not demonstrated the "background circumstances" necessary to prove that her employer was "that unusual employer who discriminates against the majority." This standard, applied in some federal courts, requires plaintiffs from majority groupssuch as white or straight individualsto provide more evidence than minority plaintiffs to prove discrimination.

During oral arguments, the Supreme Court justices seemed skeptical of this two-tiered system. Xiao Wang, Ames attorney, argued that the "background circumstances" rule is inconsistent with Title VIIs mandate to protect all individuals from discrimination. "Title VII aims to eradicate all discrimination in the workplace," Wang told the justices. "But the background circumstances rule doesn't do that. It instructs courts to practice it by sorting individuals into majority and minority groups based on their race, their sex, or their protected characteristic."

A unanimous court?

Remarkably, both conservative and liberal justices appeared to agree that the current standard is flawed. Justice Amy Coney Barrett questioned whether ruling in Ames favor would "throw the door wide open to Title VII suits," but she also suggested that the court should ensure all plaintiffs are treated equally under the law. Justice Neil Gorsuch went further, stating that there was "radical agreement" in the courtroom that the current standard is problematic.

Even Ohio Solicitor General T. Elliot Gaiser conceded that "everyone here agrees everyone should be treated equally." This rare consensus suggests that the court may issue a unanimous or near-unanimous ruling in Ames favor, sending her case back to lower courts for reconsideration.

Historical context and broader implications

The Ames case arrives at a time of heightened debate over DEI initiatives in the workplace. Critics, including many conservatives, argue that such programs unfairly disadvantage white and straight employees. President Donald Trump, upon returning to office in January 2025, swiftly moved to dismantle DEI policies in federal agencies and encouraged private companies to follow suit.

A ruling in Ames favor could embolden similar lawsuits, particularly those challenging DEI programs. Conservative groups like America First Legal, which has close ties to the Trump administration, have already filed briefs in support of Ames, citing cases they have brought against companies like Starbucks and IBM for alleged race and sex discrimination.

However, civil rights organizations warn that such a ruling could undermine efforts to address historical and systemic discrimination. The NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund and other groups argue that the "background circumstances" rule allows courts to account for the reality of discrimination against minority groups, which remains pervasive.

Whats next for Ames and workplace discrimination law?

If the Supreme Court rules in Ames favor, it could set a precedent that makes it easier for plaintiffs from majority groups to pursue discrimination claims. This could lead to a surge in lawsuits challenging DEI policies, particularly in conservative-leaning states.

For Ames, the ruling could mean a second chance to prove her case in court. She claims that her demotion resulted in a significant pay cut, from approximately 100,000 to 60,000 annually, and that her employers decisions were motivated by bias.

As the nation awaits the courts decision, one thing is clear: the outcome of this case will have profound implications for the future of workplace discrimination law and the ongoing debate over diversity and inclusion in America. Whether it represents a victory for equal treatment or a setback for DEI initiatives depends on ones perspectivebut its impact will be felt for years to come.

Sources include:

Reuters.com

WashingtonPost.com

NBCNews.com
FBI agents misconduct exposed: Nudes, political shielding and ethical breaches

Former FBI agent and ethics instructor Tim Thibault is accused of sharing sensitive government information and a nude photo from his official email account in 2022.

Thibault allegedly forwarded the information and photo to his girlfriend and a university email, highlighting the discrepancy between his ethics teaching role and his actions.

He allegedly tried to undermine derogatory information about Hunter Biden and was the FBI's "point man" for evidence from Tony Bobulinski, who alleged the Bidens in a Chinese business deal.

Republican senators call for a thorough investigation into Thibault's conduct, criticizing the FBI's handling of sensitive information and reluctance to share details with Congress.

The allegations raise questions about the FBI's integrity and potential political influence, impacting public trust and emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.

Former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agent Tim Thibault has been accused of improperly sharing sensitive government information and a nude photo of his girlfriend from his official email account, while also allegedly shielding former first son Hunter Biden from a federal criminal investigation.

The allegations, detailed in emails obtained by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ron Johnson (R-WI), have sparked calls for a thorough investigation into Thibault's conduct and the FBI's internal oversight.

Thibault, who served as an assistant special agent in charge at the FBI's Washington Field Office (WFO), engaged in a series of inappropriate actions between February and May 2022. According to the emails, Thibault sent sensitive information, including the names of other FBI employees and details about ongoing investigations, to his girlfriend, Melissa Morgan-Ransome.

In April 2022, he also forwarded a nude photo of Morgan-Ransome from his government email account to both her and a George Washington University email address linked to himself. At the time, Thibault was a featured lecturer at the university, where he taught courses on ethical dilemmas and the distinctions between unlawful and unethical conduct.

This juxtaposition of his role as an ethics instructor and his own alleged breaches of trust is particularly striking. But the most controversial aspect of Thibault's alleged misconduct involves his role in a federal investigation into Hunter Biden.

According to the senators, Thibault and a colleague, supervisory intelligence analyst Brian Auten, were involved in a scheme to "undermine derogatory information connected to Hunter Biden by falsely suggesting it was disinformation."

This alleged interference in a high-profile investigation has raised serious questions about the integrity of the FBI and the potential for political influence within the bureau. Thibault's conduct is particularly concerning given his position as the "point man" for handling evidence submitted by Tony Bobulinski, a business associate of the younger Biden.

Bobulinski had provided evidence suggesting that Hunter and his brother James Biden were involved in a $5 million business venture with a Chinese energy conglomerate. Emails on Hunter's abandoned laptop also indicated that former President Joe Biden was to receive a 10 percent stake in the deal, though the extent of his involvement remains a subject of debate.

Calls for investigation and accountability

Sens. Grassley and Johnson have strongly condemned Thibault's behavior, describing it as "toxic, disturbing and unprofessional conduct" that has "no place in the FBI." In a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, the senators demanded an immediate investigation into Thibault's actions, including whether they "could be construed as creating a hostile work environment and sexual harassment."

The senators also criticized the FBI's broader handling of information, noting the bureau's reluctance to share details with Congress and the public while Thibault was freely sharing sensitive information with a private citizen.

"The FBI repeatedly lectures Congress, without any legitimate basis, that it can't share information with Congress because the matter is an ongoing investigation. Yet, here, Thibault sent all of that type of information to a private citizen while the FBI stiff-arms Congress and the American people," they wrote.

The allegations against Thibault, if substantiated, represent a significant breach of trust and a violation of the ethical standards expected of FBI agents. The incident has not only raised questions about the integrity of the bureau but also about the potential for political influence in high-stakes investigations.

As the FBI and the Department of Justice move to investigate these claims, the case underscores the ongoing need for transparency and accountability in law enforcement, particularly in matters involving high-profile political figures. The outcome of this investigation will be closely watched, as it could have far-reaching implications for the credibility of the FBI and the broader justice system. (Related: Kash Patel takes the reins at FBI: A long-overdue reckoning for a corrupt and bloated agency.)

Check our FBICorruption.news for related stories.

Watch the video below where former rank-and-file FBI employee Nicole Parker reveals many agents are disgusted by "politicization."

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Kash Patel issues stern WARNING to America's enemies following his confirmation as FBI director.

TREASON AT THE TOP: FBI and DOJ whistleblower records reveal anti-Trump plot in 2020 election case.

FBI hands over details of 5,000 employees involved in Jan. 6 investigations: A new chapter in political scrutiny.

Sources include:

NYPost.com 1

Parabellum.news

NYPost.com 2

Grassley.Senate.gov [PDF]

Brighteon.com
AG Bondi: FBI CONCEALED thousands of documents linked to Epstein investigation

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi accused the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of concealing thousands of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation.

Bondi received only 200 pages of documents initially, primarily consisting of flight logs and contact lists, which the FBI claimed were the only available materials.

Upon discovering that the FBI New York Field Office possessed thousands of additional documents, Bondi demanded their immediate release, giving the FBI a deadline of Feb. 28.

Bondi ordered FBI Director Kash Patel to conduct an investigation into why her previous orders were not followed and requested a comprehensive report of findings and proposed personnel action within 14 days.

The release of the withheld documents is expected to shed light on Epstein's network and activities, promising greater transparency and accountability in the investigation.

U.S. Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi has accused the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) of concealing thousands of documents related to its investigation of the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

She put forward this accusation in a letter Thursday, Feb. 27 to FBI Director Kash Patel, demanding the release of all withheld materials. According to Bondi, the FBI had initially provided her office with with approximately 200 pages of documents, primarily consisting of flight logs and contact lists. The bureau assured her that these were the only materials available.

But she later found out on Feb. 26 that the FBI New York Field Office was in possession of thousands of documents related to the probe. "Despite my repeated requests, the FBI never disclosed the existence of these files," the AG wrote.

Given this revelation from a source within the field office, Bondi demanded the immediate release of all withheld materials "regardless of how such information was obtained." She gave a deadline of 8:00 a.m. on Feb. 28 for the delivery of the aforementioned materials, with "no withholdings or limitations" to her or Patel's access.

Bondi also ordered Patel to conduct an investigation as to why her orders were not followed. "You will deliver to me a comprehensive report of your findings and proposed personnel action within 14 days," she commanded the new FBI director.

Epstein, a financier by profession, was arrested in July 2019 on charges of sex trafficking. He died by suicide while in custody at the Metropolitan Correctional Center, New York in Manhattan as he was awaiting trial. (Related: Jeffrey Epstein's "suicide" likely a cover-up, internal prison files show.)

His former associate Ghislaine Maxwell was convicted of sex trafficking in 2021 for her role in facilitating Epsteins abuse of young girls. The case has remained a focal point of public and media scrutiny, with many calling for full transparency.

Initial release of declassified Epstein files falls short

The development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing effort to uncover the full truth behind Epstein's crimes and his network of associates. The release of Epstein-related documents has been a long-standing promise of the second Trump administration, which has prioritized transparency in its early weeks.

President Donald Trump had vowed to declassify files tied to Epstein, a pledge that has garnered significant public and political interest. This he did by ordering the release of a first tranche of documents on Thursday, the same day Bondi wrote her letter to Patel.

But the initial release of 200 pages dubbed "The Epstein Files: Phase I" disappointed many. Conservative commentator Glenn Beck likewise expressed his disappointment, calling the released files "a total joke."

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) said of the documents: "This is not what we or the American people asked for and a complete disappointment." The congresswoman lamented that neither she nor the House Oversight Committee "were given or reviewed the Epstein documents" released Thursday.

A source told the New York Post that the initial batch of files contained Epstein's address book, "including a list of contacts without further context." However, the withheld documents Bondi requested are believed to include critical details about Epstein's network and activities.

As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits the release of the remaining Epstein documents, hoping for clarity and justice in a case that has long been shrouded in secrecy. The collaboration between Bondi and Patel promises to bring accountability to the FBI and shed light on one of the most notorious criminal cases in recent history.

Visit FBICorruption.news for more similar stories.

Watch Alex Jones of InfoWars commenting on Bill Gates' fear that President Donald Trump will release the Epstein client list  which includes the Microsoft co-founder.

This video is from the KryptoKing187 channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

DOCUMENTS: Jeffrey Epstein exploited teenage girl to "obtain blackmail information" on "prominent American politicians."

New Jeffrey Epstein documents prove that Trump DID NOT visit Epstein home or island.

Court unseals documents: Bill Clinton alleged to have appeared on Epstein's Island.

Sources include:

TheNationalPulse.com

BBC.com

LegalInsurrection.com

Brighteon.com
Annie Jacobsens Phenomena reveals the U.S. governments fascination with psychic abilities

From the 1950s to the mid-1990s, the U.S. government invested millions in researching extrasensory perception (ESP) and psychokinesis (PK) to gain a strategic edge over the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

The U.S. was influenced by Nazi Germany's interest in the occult, particularly the Ahnenerbe's research into supernatural phenomena, which raised fears that the Soviets might also explore similar avenues.

In the 1970s, the CIA collaborated with the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) to study ESP and PK, concluding there was credible evidence for ESP. The Navy, Army and Air Force launched their own programs, including telepathy for submarine communication and dowsing to locate enemy tunnels in Vietnam.

Key figures like Andrija Puharich explored unconventional methods, including hallucinogenic drugs and psychotronic weapons, while the CIA also experimented with mind control using LSD and hypnosis.

By the mid-1990s, with the Cold War's end and advancements in technology, the U.S. government ceased its psychic research programs. However, modern defense research continues to explore enhanced human perception and cognition, reflecting the enduring influence of these Cold War experiments.

In the shadowy corridors of the Cold War, the United States government pursued a classified program that blurred the lines between science, espionage and the supernatural.

From the 1950s to the mid-1990s, American intelligence agencies and the military invested millions of dollars into researching extrasensory perception (ESP) and psychokinesis (PK), phenomena long dismissed as pseudoscience. This initiative, chronicled in Annie Jacobsen's book "Phenomena: The Secret History of the U.S. Government's Investigations Into Extrasensory Perception and Psychokinesis," reveals a little-known chapter in American history where the government sought to harness the power of the human mind for military and intelligence purposes.

The story of the U.S. government's fascination with psychic abilities begins in the aftermath of World War II, a period marked by the fear of nuclear annihilation and the onset of the Cold War. The U.S. government, eager to gain any strategic advantage over the Soviet Union, turned to unconventional methods, including the exploration of ESP and PK.

These efforts were heavily influenced by the discovery of Nazi Germany's deep interest in the occult during the war. Heinrich Himmler, the head of the SS, had established the Ahnenerbe, a scientific organization that researched mystical and supernatural phenomena, and its findings were briefly in Allied hands after the war. While much of the Ahnenerbes work was later destroyed, the idea that the Soviet Union could also be exploring similar avenues loomed large in American minds.

In 1972, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) approached researchers at the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) with a bold question: Could ESP and PK be proven to exist in a laboratory setting?

By 1975, the CIA had concluded that there was a large body of reliable experimental evidence supporting the existence of ESP, a finding that shocked the scientific and intelligence communities. The Navy, Air Force, Army and other agencies quickly followed suit, launching their own programs to explore the potential of psychic phenomena for military and intelligence purposes.

One of the most unconventional applications of ESP was the Navy's interest in using telepathy as a communication method in the event of a nuclear strike. The idea was that telepathic messages could penetrate the depths of the ocean, where traditional radio signals could not reach.

Meanwhile, the Army conducted experiments in Vietnam, where a team led by Louis J. Matacia, a former Army topographical surveyor and self-proclaimed expert dowser, trained Marines to use divining rods to locate enemy tunnels. While the results were mixed, the program demonstrated the military's willingness to explore unorthodox methods in the face of unconventional warfare.

The most intriguing figure in this story was Andrija Puharich, a neurobiologist and inventor who claimed to have discovered a mysterious energy force that fueled extrasensory perception. Puharich's work caught the attention of the U.S. government, and he was soon recruited to conduct experiments for the CIA and Army. Puharich's research took him to some of the strangest corners of the psychic world, including experiments with hallucinogenic mushrooms and collaborations with a Dutch sculptor who claimed to channel ancient Egyptian entities.

As the psychic research program at SRI gained momentum, the CIA expanded its efforts into even more controversial territory, experimenting with mind control using drugs like LSD and hypnosis. The agency also explored the potential of psychotronic weapons, which were said to use electromagnetic waves to disrupt the human mind and body. The Soviet Union, too, was deeply invested in psychic research, and rumors of Soviet psychotronic weapons capabilities fueled U.S. concerns.

The psychic arms race reached its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, but by the mid-1990s, the U.S. government's interest in psychic phenomena began to wane. With the end of the Cold War and the rise of new technologies like satellite surveillance and cyber warfare, the idea of psychic spies seemed increasingly outdated. In 1995, the CIA officially shut down its psychic research program, bringing the era of government-sponsored psychic espionage to a close.

Today, the legacy of these programs lives on. While the U.S. government no longer funds investigations into ESP and PK, modern defense research has turned to the concept of sensemaking, or the ability to understand and anticipate events, as a potential tool for military and intelligence operations. The idea of using technology to enhance human perception and cognition continues to capture the imagination of scientists and policymakers alike.

Watch this video showcasing Annie Jacobsen's research in "Phenomena: The Secret History of the U.S. Government's Investigations Into Extrasensory Perception and Psychokinesis."

This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Brighteon.ai

Brighteon.com
FBI launches investigation into James Comey over alleged honeypot operation targeting Trump in 2016

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), under new leadership, has initiated an investigation into former FBI Director James Comey's alleged unauthorized "honeypot" operation targeting Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign.

The operation, initiated in 2015, involved two undercover female FBI employees using feigned romantic or sexual interest to gather intelligence on Trump and his campaign staff, described as a "fishing expedition" without formal authorization.

A whistleblower provided the House Judiciary Committee with a detailed account of the operation, including the agents' activities such as traveling with Trump's team, and alleged that Comey personally directed the operation.

Newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino are leading the investigation, aiming to uncover the full scope and any potential violations of protocols or laws.

In a major development in the ongoing scrutiny of former Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director James Comey, the FBI has initiated an investigation into his alleged covert "honeypot" operation targeting Donald Trump's 2016 presidential campaign.

This move, announced on Feb. 20, comes just days after Kash Patel was sworn in as the new FBI director, marking a significant shift in the agency's leadership and focus.

The investigation centers on an off-the-books operation initiated by Comey in 2015, which involved two undercover female FBI employees acting as "honeypots" to infiltrate Trump's campaign. According to a whistleblower, these operatives were directed to feign romantic or sexual interest to gather intelligence, a tactic often used in the intelligence community to obtain sensitive information.

The Washington Times first reported the existence of this covert operation, revealing that it was part of a broader, unapproved investigation into Trump and his campaign staff. The whistleblower, whose identity remains protected, provided the House Judiciary Committee with a detailed account of the operation, which included traveling with Trump and his staff to gather information.

In the intelligence community, a honeypot typically refers to an undercover operative who pretends to be romantically or sexually interested in a target to extract information. The whistleblower claimed that Comey "personally directed" the operation, despite the lack of a specific crime or formal authorization. The operation has been described as a "fishing expedition" aimed at finding any potential wrongdoing within Trump's campaign.

New leadership at the FBI takes action

The current FBI leadership, headed by Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Dan Bongino, has taken a keen interest in investigating the origins and conduct of this operation. Both Patel and Bongino are known for their alignment with the Trump administration and their commitment to rooting out perceived misconduct within the FBI. (Related: Kash Patel takes the reins at FBI: A long-overdue reckoning for a corrupt and bloated agency.)

According to Collin Rugg, co-owner of Trending Politics, who posted the news on the social media platform X, the FBI is actively seeking the two female undercover employees who were involved in the operation. The Times reported that the new FBI leadership is determined to uncover the full scope of the operation and any potential violations of FBI protocols or laws. This investigation into Comey adds another layer to the contentious relationship between Trump and the FBI, which has been a source of political controversy for years.

The alleged honeypot operation predates the better-known Crossfire Hurricane investigation, which focused on allegations of Russian collusion with Trump's campaign. Unlike Crossfire Hurricane, which was a formal counterintelligence effort, the honeypot operation was conducted off the books and without clear justification, raising serious questions about the FBI's conduct and accountability.

The timing of this investigation, coming shortly after Patel's appointment as FBI director, is particularly significant. It suggests a renewed effort to scrutinize and, if necessary, hold accountable those involved in controversial operations targeting the Trump campaign. This move could have far-reaching implications for the FBI's reputation and the broader political landscape, especially as it may influence public trust in federal law enforcement agencies.

The FBI's decision to investigate Comey over the alleged honeypot operation targeting Trump's 2016 campaign represents a significant development in ongoing debates about the agency's conduct and the balance of power between the executive branch and federal law enforcement.

As the investigation unfolds, it will be closely watched by both supporters and critics of the Trump administration, with the potential to reshape public perceptions of the FBI and its role in American politics. The outcome of this investigation could have lasting effects on the relationship between the FBI and the White House and the broader issues of political surveillance and accountability.

FBICorruption.news contains stories similar to this.

Watch the video below where former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee calls the FBI an agency that has become "tragically incompetent."

This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Whistleblower: James Comey ran a "honeypot" espionage operation against Trump's 2016 campaign.

Kash Patel issues stern WARNING to America's enemies following his confirmation as FBI director.

"The Russia Hoax": A tale of power, manipulation and political intrigue.

Sources include:

100PercentFedUp.com

WashingtonTimes.com

X.com

Brighteon.com
Japanese Professor warns against new wave of mRNA vaccine experiments and global human rights violations, as Japan prepares for DISEASE X

 Professor Masayasu Inoue, a leading molecular pathology expert, condemns the mRNA vaccine rollout as a "fraudulent use of gene therapy" and a violation of human rights.

 The Japanese government, under the guise of pandemic preparedness, is accelerating dangerous vaccine development, ignoring the catastrophic injuries caused by mRNA technology.

 Global censorship and media manipulation continue to suppress the truth about vaccine injuries, while governments and pharmaceutical companies prepare for the next phase of bioterrorism under the banner of "Disease X."

The engineering of pandemics for bioterrorism and maximizing vaccine compliance

In a chilling message delivered at a World Council for Health conference, Professor Masayasu Inoue, Professor Emeritus of Osaka City University Medical School, issued a dire warning to the world: the mRNA vaccines pushed during the COVID-19 pandemic represent an unprecedented violation of human rights, and the Japanese governments aggressive vaccine development plans threaten to escalate this global crisis, with accelerated vaccine development programs for "Disease X."

Professor Inoue, a specialist in molecular pathology and medicine, minced no words in his condemnation of the mRNA vaccine rollout, which he described as a "fraudulent use of experimental gene therapy" on healthy populations, including children. His statement comes as Japan prepares to export its newly developed "self-replicating replicon vaccines," a technology that could further endanger humanity under the guise of pandemic preparedness.

The COVID-19 pandemic, as Professor Inoue explained, was weaponized by global entities like the World Health Organization (WHO) to fast-track experimental vaccines under Operation Warp Speed. This program, which compressed vaccine development from a decade-long process to less than a year, bypassed critical safety protocols and unleashed a dangerous technology on the world: the injection of viral genes into human tissues to produce toxic spike proteins.

"This is a completely new and misconceived method that has never been applied before in human history," Inoue stated. "It is impossible, therefore, for most doctors to give proper informed consent."

Despite the lack of long-term safety data, governments and media outlets worldwide orchestrated a fear campaign to coerce billions into accepting these experimental injections. In Japan, 80% of the population has been vaccinated, with some individuals receiving up to seven doses. The result, according to Inoue, has been "the induction of terrible drug-induced injuries that have never been seen in human history."

Japans dangerous vaccine agenda ignores litany of vaccine injuries

While vaccine injuries mount, the Japanese government has doubled down on its commitment to mRNA technology. Keizo Takemi, Japans Minister of Health, Labor and Welfare, has dismissed concerns about vaccine injuries, even as the government invests heavily in new vaccine production systems.

Inoue revealed that Japan is leading the charge in developing a new type of vaccine called the "self-replicating replicon vaccine," which is set to be rolled out this fall and winter. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is subsidizing this project with billions of dollars, and factories are being constructed across the country to mass-produce these experimental vaccines.

"This is an unbelievable, crazy situation," Inoue said. "The Japanese government is ignoring the human rights perspective and rushing to prepare for the next pandemic under the guise of Disease X, a concept proposed at the Davos conference."

The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) is spearheading this effort, aiming to shorten vaccine development to just 100 daysa third of the time it took under Operation Warp Speed. This reckless acceleration, Inoue warned, will only lead to more injuries and deaths, as safety and ethical considerations are cast aside in the name of profit and control.

Global censorship and the fight for truth

Despite his efforts to educate the public about the dangers of mRNA vaccines, Professor Inoue has faced relentless censorship. "If we tell the truth about vaccines on YouTube, it is deleted within a day," he lamented. "We are facing censorship and speech suppression almost every day."

In response, Inoue has turned to alternative methods of communication, including publishing a book titled, Withdraw From WHO. He hopes that by sharing the truth, nations can unite to stop the global vaccine agenda and protect future generations from irreparable harm.

"The message I would like to convey to the world is that when Disease X occurs in the future, you should never trust the Japan-made vaccine that was developed in a short period of time," Inoue said. "Sharing the truth between countries is so important. This is a step towards unity and solidarity."

Sources include:

GlobalResearch.ca

Aussie17.com

GlobalResearch.ca
MEASLES PLANDEMIC UNDER WAY: Fake news across America warning unvaccinated children hospitalized and dying from measles outbreak in Texas

The vaccine industrial complex has been perpetuating the claim that measles vaccines are "safe and effective" for 50 years.

The claim that vaccines are the only way to survive infectious diseases is questionable, as vaccines themselves can be harmful and have side effects like seizures, anaphylactic shock, and inflammation of the brain.

Measles outbreaks being blamed on the unvaccinated are questionable, and vaccine fanatics often get booster shots at the slightest mention of an outbreak.

It claims that the FDA and CDC have not assessed the likelihood of getting or spreading measles to those with natural immunity, and highlights the potential dangers of vaccine ingredients such as human albumin and fetal bovine serum.

According to Big Pharma and fake news everywhere, the only way to ever survive any infectious disease is to get a deadly vaccine for it, or else. Medical authorities are already falsely claiming that the first measles vaccine guarantees a 93 percent efficacy rate, and the second dose guarantees a 97 percent efficacy rate at preventing measles contraction and spread, and its the same ole tired 95 percent lie thats been perpetuated by the vaccine industrial complex for 50 years, give or take 2 percent.

So, if you live in West Texas, especially if you have little kids, its time to get injected with some deadly toxins that dont even belong in vaccines, in order to stave off an infection that has a far less chance of killing a human than the disease itself. According to every MSM news outlet in Texas, about 150 kids now have the measles and one of them died from it. Of course, that kid was unvaccinated. Please refrain from having any birthday parties until mass vaccination can flatten out the curve of this horrid scamdemic of Measles delta variant outbreak, or something like that.

"It's the most contagious infectious disease known to humans doctors everywhere are screaming. The CDC wants to eradicate this disease, just like they said they wanted to with COVID when they locked everyone down, made us all wear bacteria-breeding masks, social distance when we finally came out of our homes, shut down all non-essential businesses, force-vaccinated everyone they could with the most deadly clot shots ever created as a mass experiment, and promised us all repeatedly that the vaccine was 95 percent effective, and if you got it, there was NO CHANCE you could catch the disease or spread I to grandma and grandpa. Sure.

Side effects of the MMR jab include seizures, anaphylactic shock, inflammation of the brain, encephalitis, spontaneous abortion, and measles infection

Vaccine fanatics everywhere get toxic jabs every time they hear about any person anywhere in their region catching any infectious disease, and the news is always quick to blame unvaccinated people for spreading it. Heres the actual truth of the matter, though.

The type of measles vaccine has changed over the years, shifting from an inactive (killed) vaccine to the live measles vaccine, which became the standard version that remains in use today. That means if you get the measles vaccine, three out of every 100 people who get two doses STILL get measles, either from the vaccine or others who spread the virus to them.

The FDA and CDC have NEVER assessed how likely or unlikely a person is to get the measles or transfer it to someone else who has natural immunity to it because they either have a healthy immune system without vaccines or they already contracted the measles and have the best immunity in the world to it now  natural immunity.

You may want to avoid the MMR vaccine like the plague, because side effects of the highly experimental jab include seizures, anaphylactic shock, inflammation of the brain, encephalitis, spontaneous abortion, and measles infection. Ingredients in the MMR include HUMAN ALBUMIN (blood cells from human abortions) and hydrolyzed gelatin, which can cause severe allergic reactions. There is also fetal bovine serum in the MMR and an antibiotic that should never be injected into any human, especially babies and pregnant women.

So, did the 20 hospitalized infected kids and teens really need to be hospitalized? Will they spread the infection throughout those hospitals, since most U.S. hospitals have very poor protocol for preventing the spread of germs and bacteria, like superbugs? Did the child who died from measles actually die from measles, or did they get a COVID stab recently and die from strange rubbery vascular clots? We may never find out.

Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on experimental gene therapy injections that cause the diseases they are supposed to protect against and lead to Long-Vax-Syndrome (autism, blood clots, and death).

Sources for this article include:

Pandemic.news

NaturalNews.com

Wired.com

Immunize.bc.ca
Nuclear scenario highlights dire consequences as global tensions rise

A NuclearSecrecy.com simulation shows a Russian Topol SS-25 nuclear warhead over Westminster would destroy a 2.97 sq km area and cause severe damage over 1,000 sq km.

The simulation highlights nuclear proliferation risks, especially amid Russia's invasion of Ukraine and increased European defense spending.

The U.K., under Prime Minister Starmer, supports Ukraine and emphasizes its nuclear deterrent, maintaining a continuous at-sea deterrence program since 1969.

The simulation underscores the need for robust defense strategies in a tense global environment, while acknowledging the remote risk of nuclear conflict.

The U.K. remains committed to its nuclear deterrent as a key component of national and international security.

Just weeks after the Doomsday Clock was moved one second closer to midnight  indicating the world is now just 89 metaphorical seconds from potential global catastrophe  a simulation on NuclearSecrecy.com illustrates the catastrophic impact a Russian nuclear strike could have on the United Kingdom. Specifically, the website's Nuke Map tool, developed by Alex Wellerstein, a professor at the Stevens Institute of Technology, demonstrates the devastating consequences if a Russian Topol SS-25, an 800-kiloton nuclear warhead, were to hit central London.

The Nuke Map simulation shows the immediate and long-term effects of such a strike. If the warhead were to detonate directly over Westminster, the immediate fireball would vaporize everything within a 2.97 square kilometer area, including key landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, St. James's Palace and the London Eye. The intense heat and pressure would reduce these iconic structures to ash and rubble. Expanding outward, the moderate blast damage radius would cover 134 square kilometers, encompassing densely populated neighborhoods like Camden, Kensington and Brixton.

At this level, the overpressure would collapse most buildings, causing widespread fatalities and igniting fires that would spread uncontrollably. The likelihood of a firestorm, similar to those seen in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, would be high, exacerbating the initial damage and causing additional casualties.

The third zone, extending 384 square kilometers, would see third-degree burns and severe injuries from the heat and radiation. Areas like Chiswick, Streatham and Stratford would be plagued by severe scarring, potential disability and the risk of long-term health issues.

The final zone, the light blast damage radius, would affect the outer edges of London, covering 1,000 square kilometers. In this area, the overpressure would shatter windows and cause injuries, particularly to those who approach windows after the initial flash of the explosion.

The scenario presented by the Nuke Map is not just a theoretical exercise; it underscores the ongoing concerns about nuclear proliferation and the potential for conflict. Russia's "special military operation" in Ukraine in February 2022 was a stark reminder of the fragility of global peace. Many analysts feared that this conflict could escalate into a broader European war, possibly involving nuclear powers.

The involvement of U.S. President Donald Trump in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, coupled with the ramping up of defense spending by European Union nations, has further heightened tensions. The U.K. government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has pledged to support Ukraine with troops if necessary, a move that could draw the country into direct conflict with Russia. (Related: Trump revives push for NUCLEAR ARMS REDUCTION talks with Russia and China.)

The U.K.'s nuclear deterrent

In the face of these threats, the U.K. government emphasizes the importance of its nuclear deterrent. The U.K. has maintained a continuous at-sea deterrence (CASD) program since April 1969, with at least one nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarine patrolling the seas at all times. This deterrent is designed to prevent the most extreme forms of aggression and to protect the U.K. and its NATO allies.

According to the U.K. government, "The risk of nuclear conflict remains remote, but the threats the U.K. faces are increasing in scale, diversity and complexity. The U.K.'s independent nuclear deterrent continues to play a crucial role in maintaining national and international security."

The government's stance reflects a balance between maintaining a credible deterrent and supporting international efforts towards nuclear disarmament.

While the scenario of a nuclear strike on London remains a dire and unlikely prospect, the Nuke Map simulation serves as a powerful tool for understanding the potential consequences of such an event. As global tensions continue to escalate, the need for robust and resilient defense strategies becomes increasingly clear. The U.K.'s commitment to its nuclear deterrent underscores the ongoing importance of deterrence in maintaining peace and security in an uncertain world.

Head over to Nuclear.news for stories similar to this.

Watch the video below where Russia clarifies that it is not attacking Chernobyl.

This video is from Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

A surefire path to WWIII: Desperate Zelensky calls for NUKES to stop Russia.

Chernobyl under fire: Drone strike on nuclear shield raises global alarm.

Russia's RED LINES not mere threats: West's provocation puts global security in grave danger.

Sources include:

Express.co.uk

DailyStar.co.uk

Brighteon.com
Starmers coalition of the willing mobilizes to support Ukraine as U.S. backing wavers

UK and France lead a new European coalition to provide military and economic support to Ukraine amid dwindling U.S. backing.

The coalition includes a 1.6 billion deal for 5,000 air defense missiles, boosting UK jobs and economic growth.

French President Macron proposes a one-month truce to de-escalate the conflict, but ground fighting would continue.

U.S. support remains uncertain, with Trump criticizing Ukraine aid and prioritizing domestic issues over international commitments.

Europe increases defense spending, but troop deployment and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine remain unresolved.

In a pivotal moment for Europes role in the Ukraine conflict, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Sunday that the UK and France are spearheading a coalition of the willing to provide military and economic support to Kyiv.

The move comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky faces dwindling U.S. backing following a disastrous meeting with President Donald Trump, leaving Europe to shoulder greater responsibility in a war that directly impacts its security.

The announcement followed an emergency defense summit in London, where European leaders gathered to address the shifting transatlantic consensus on Ukraine. Starmer emphasized the need for a united European response, declaring that the continent is at a crossroads in history and must act decisively to secure a lasting peace.

A coalition takes shape

The coalition, led by the UK and France, aims to provide Ukraine with the resources needed to deter further Russian aggression. Starmer confirmed a 1.6 billion deal to supply Ukraine with over 5,000 air defense missiles, manufactured by Thales in Belfast, which will also create jobs and boost economic growth.

Its time to step up and lead and to unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace, Starmer told reporters. If you want to preserve the peace, you have to be prepared to defend the peace.

French President Emmanuel Macron proposed a one-month truce in the air, on the seas, and on energy infrastructure to de-escalate the conflict, though he acknowledged that ground fighting would continue. The truce, he said, would buy time for negotiations and allow Ukraine to strengthen its defenses.

However, the coalitions plans hinge on U.S. support, which remains uncertain. Starmer stressed that any ceasefire must be backed by American air, logistics, and intelligence capabilities. To succeed, this effort must have strong U.S. backing, he said.

Zelenskys U.S. woes

The urgency of the summit was underscored by Zelenskys recent clash with Trump, during which the Ukrainian president was publicly berated by the U.S. leader and Vice President JD Vance. Trump, who has long resisted military commitments to Ukraine, criticized the focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin, instead urging the U.S. to prioritize domestic issues like immigration and crime.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country, Trump posted on Truth Social.

Zelensky later expressed regret over the public nature of the meeting, telling LBCs Andrew Marr, I do not believe it is right when such conversations are absolutely open because the emotions or information etc, the foes can take advantage of them.

Europe steps up as U.S. steps back

With U.S. support in question, European leaders are stepping up their commitments. The UK has pledged to increase military spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, with ambitions to reach 3% soon after. Other nations, including Germany and Poland, are also raising defense budgets.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the coalitions goal as turning Ukraine into a steel porcupine that is indigestible for potential invaders. She added that Europe must urgently rearm to prepare for the worst.

Despite the show of unity, the coalition faces challenges. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni noted that there is no concrete plan for troop deployment, while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk lamented the lack of a systematic approach to future security guarantees for Ukraine.

While Starmers coalition signals a stronger European commitment to Ukraine, the prospect of sending troops remains contentious. Macron clarified that Western troops would only be deployed after a peace deal is signed, but Moscow has warned that unauthorized peacekeepers would be considered legitimate targets.

As Europe takes the lead in supporting Ukraine, the coalition of the willing marks a turning point in the conflict. Yet, with U.S. backing uncertain and Russias resolve unshaken, the path to peace remains full of challenges. For Europe, the question is not just how to end the war, but how to secure a future where such conflicts are prevented.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

YourNews.com

TheGuardian.com
Trump Admin to rescind Obama-era ENDANGERMENT FINDING, upending EPA tyranny and unleashing energy independence

In a bold move to dismantle one of the most controversial regulatory actions of the Obama era, the Trump administration has initiated the process to rescind the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) 2009 Endangerment Finding (EF). This landmark decision, which classified greenhouse gases as a threat to public health and welfare , has been the cornerstone of federal efforts to restrict hydrocarbon use in the U.S. economy. Now, under the leadership of EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, the agency is pushing to reconsider the EF, sparking outrage from environmental groups and reigniting the debate over energy independence, scientific integrity, and government overreach.

 The Endangerment Finding, enacted in December 2009, has been the foundation for federal climate regulations, including restrictions on fossil fuels.

 EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has privately recommended reconsidering the EF, a move that could reshape U.S. energy policy.

 Environmental groups and Democrat-led states are preparing for a legal battle, claiming the decision ignores science and the law.

 The Trump administration argues that the EFs forced energy transition poses greater risks to public health and welfare than gradual climate change.

The endangerment finding: a weaponized tool of the Obama era

The EF, finalized in December 2009, was one of the first major regulatory actions of the Obama administration. It declared greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide, a danger to public health and welfare, paving the way for sweeping regulations on industries reliant on hydrocarbons. Critics argue that the EF was less about science and more about advancing a radical environmental agenda. By weaponizing the EPA, the Obama administration sought to phase out fossil fuels under the guise of saving the planet, imposing crippling costs on American businesses and consumers.

The EF became the legal basis for policies like the Clean Power Plan, which aimed to shut down coal-fired power plants and force a transition to unreliable renewable energy sources. These policies, critics say, were designed to centralize power in the hands of unelected bureaucrats while undermining American energy independence.

President Trump, a vocal critic of over-regulation, has long promised to roll back the EF. In one of his first executive orders, Unleashing American Energy, he directed EPA Administrator Zeldin to review the EFs legality and applicability. On February 19, Zeldin reportedly submitted a private memorandum recommending reconsideration of the finding. While the details of the memo remain confidential, leaks to The Washington Post and other outlets suggest the administration is preparing for a major regulatory overhaul.

At a recent Cabinet meeting, President Trump praised Zeldins efforts to streamline the EPA, stating, A lot of people that werent doing their job, they were just obstructionist. The administration has also signaled plans to reduce the EPAs workforce by 65%, targeting holdover staff seen as hostile to Trumps agenda.

Environmental groups gear up for battle

The administrations case against the EF hinges on the dangers of mandating a rapid shift to unproven energy technologies. Critics point to the potential for widespread blackouts during extreme weather, toxic fires at grid-scale battery installations, and the economic burden of unaffordable energy costs. Electric vehicles, touted as a solution to emissions, could leave drivers stranded in freezing temperatures when batteries lose charge.

Unsurprisingly, environmental organizations and Democrat-led states are already mobilizing to block the rescission. David Doniger of the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) accused the administration of ignoring science and the law, claiming the move benefits oil, coal, and gas magnates who supported Trumps campaign. Vickie Patton of the Environmental Defense Fund called the decision reckless, unlawful, and [ignoring] EPAs fundamental responsibility to protect Americans from destructive climate pollution.

These groups, backed by deep pockets and a network of activist lawyers, are expected to launch a barrage of lawsuits to delay or overturn the rescission. However, the Trump administration appears undeterred, arguing that the EFs forced energy transition poses far greater risks to public health and welfare than climate change theories.

Sources include:

Whatsupwiththat.com

Whitehouse.gov

Environ.news
Zelenskys Oval Office meltdown: A DIPLOMATIC DISASTER that could cost Ukraine everything

A highly anticipated meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance ended in chaos, derailing a critical minerals deal and straining U.S.-Ukraine relations. Zelensky was accused of overplaying his hand and disrespecting the U.S., leading to a public fallout.

The meeting aimed to finalize a landmark agreement granting U.S. companies access to Ukraines rare earth minerals, essential for AI and military applications. However, Zelenskys additional demands, including security guarantees, caused tensions to escalate, leading to the deals collapse.

Discussions turned contentious when Trump accused Zelensky of risking World War III and emphasized Ukraines reliance on U.S. support. Vice President Vance criticized Zelensky for ingratitude, and the argument culminated in Trump canceling the press conference and asking Zelensky to leave the White House.

The diplomatic failure led to swift consequences, including the termination of a USAID initiative supporting Ukraines energy grid. Ukrainian officials attempted to salvage the deal, but Trump has refused further engagement, leaving Ukraines future U.S. support in doubt.

The incident underscores Ukraines precarious position, as it heavily relies on Western support to counter Russia. Zelenskys missteps have jeopardized not only the minerals deal but also the broader U.S.-Ukraine relationship, raising questions about his ability to lead Ukraine through the ongoing crisis.

In a stunning turn of events, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys highly anticipated meeting with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance at the White House on Friday ended in chaos, leaving a critical minerals dealand potentially Ukraines futurein tatters. What began as a warm exchange of pleasantries and a hopeful step toward peace devolved into a public spectacle of acrimony, with Zelensky accused of overplaying his hand and disrespecting the United States. The fallout from this diplomatic debacle raises serious questions about Ukraines ability to secure American support moving forward and underscores the precarious position Zelensky now finds himself in.

A deal within reachuntil it wasnt

The meeting was supposed to be a crowning achievement for both nations. The U.S. and Ukraine had negotiated a landmark minerals deal that would grant American companies access to Ukraines vast reserves of rare earth minerals, including gas, oil, aluminum, tritium and galliumresources critical for artificial intelligence and military applications. The deal was seen as a stepping stone toward ending the war with Russia, with Trump framing it as a pathway to peace.

According to CBS News Jennifer Jacobs, the White House was fully prepared to finalize the agreement. Two official binders were ready, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and his Ukrainian counterpart were set to join Trump and Zelensky at a conference table in the East Room. The plan was to sign the deal and then hold a joint press conference to celebrate the breakthrough.

But it all unraveled in the Oval Office.

The meltdown: What went wrong?

The meeting started cordially, with Trump and Zelensky exchanging jokes and signing a guest book in the West Wing lobby. However, tensions began to simmer once discussions turned to the specifics of the deal. Zelensky, emboldened by what he perceived as a strong bargaining position, began making additional demands, including security guarantees that had not been part of the original agreement.

Trump, known for his transactional approach to diplomacy, grew visibly frustrated. Youre gambling with World War III, Trump told Zelensky, according to sources in the room. You either make a deal or we are out. The President emphasized that Ukraines leverage was entirely dependent on U.S. support, stating, With us, you have the cardsbut without us, you dont have any cards.

Vice President JD Vance added fuel to the fire, accusing Zelensky of ingratitude. Have you said thank you once? Vance asked pointedly. You went to Pennsylvania to campaign on the opposition.

Zelensky, seemingly unwilling to back down, pushed back against Vances remarks and reiterated his stance that Russian President Vladimir Putin could not be trusted. Putin began the war, Zelensky said. He has to pay.

The exchange escalated into a full-blown argument, with Trump ultimately canceling the planned press conference and telling Zelensky to leave the White House. In a Truth Social post later that day, Trump wrote, I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.

The fallout: A broken relationship

The fallout from the meeting has been swift and severe. Secretary of State Marco Rubio terminated a USAID initiative that had invested hundreds of millions of dollars in restoring Ukraines energy grid, a move that signals a potential shift in U.S. policy toward Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials have reportedly reached out to senior White House officials in a desperate attempt to salvage the deal, but Trump has made it clear that he is unwilling to engage further with Zelensky for the time being.

Conservative commentator Richard Hanania, who watched the entire press conference, offered a damning assessment of Zelenskys performance. Zelensky was minutes away from being home free, and he would have had the deal and new commitments from the Trump administration, Hanania said. This showed so much incompetence, if not emotional instability, that I dont see how he recovers from this.

Even staunch Ukraine supporters like Senator Lindsey Graham expressed dismay at Zelenskys behavior. The way he handled the meeting, the way he confronted the president was just over the top, Graham said. What I saw in the Oval Office was disrespectful. And I dont know if we can ever do business with Zelensky again.

Historical context: Why this matters

This incident is not just a diplomatic spatit has profound implications for Ukraines future. Since Russias invasion in 2022, Ukraine has relied heavily on Western support, particularly from the United States, to sustain its war effort. However, as the conflict drags on, fatigue has set in among some American policymakers, particularly those aligned with Trumps America First agenda.

Trumps willingness to engage with Putin and his emphasis on ending the war through negotiation rather than prolonged conflict has always been a double-edged sword for Ukraine. While a peace deal could save countless lives, it could also come at the cost of Ukrainian sovereignty if not handled carefully. Zelenskys inability to navigate this delicate balance during the Oval Office meeting has jeopardized not only the minerals deal but also the broader U.S.-Ukraine relationship.

Whats next for Ukraine?

The question now is whether Zelensky can recover from this self-inflicted wound. His refusal to apologize during a subsequent Fox News interview with Bret Baier suggests that he remains defiant, but defiance alone will not secure the support Ukraine needs to survive.

As the international community watches closely, one thing is clear: Zelenskys missteps in the Oval Office have left him with few cards to play. Whether he can rebuild trust with the Trump administrationor whether Ukraine will need new leadership to do soremains to be seen. For now, the path to peace seems more uncertain than ever.

In the words of Trump, Zelensky can come back when he is ready for Peace. But with the stakes this high, Ukraine may not have the luxury of time.

Sources include:

ZeroHedge.com

X.com

MSN.com

FoxNews.com
Athena Eastwood knows all too well how difficult it is to get a winery off the ground.

When the commodities lawyer-turned-vineyard owner was first trying to plant her roots in Central Virginias wine country nearly a decade ago, alongside her two daughters and partner, she knew those roots would grow only an inch at a time.

Thats a really big undertaking, and its pretty scary, actually, Eastwood told The Daily Progress. From the very beginning, we were like, Gosh, I wish there was some kind of a co-op or something where we could be doing this together with other people and sharing that brain trust.

Today, Eastwood Farm and Winery, a few miles south of Charlottesville, has bloomed into a prosperous enterprise with more than 20 acres under vine producing award-winning merlot, petit verdot and cabernet franc. These wines and others secured the winery six medals in this years Governors Cup Competition, Virginias top contest for winemakers.

Eastwoods owners arent resting on their laurels, however. Instead, theyre seeking to lower the barriers they once climbed for those trying to break into the industry just like they once did. This spring, they will open the Virginia Wine Collective.

A collaborative space with individual studios and shareable production equipment, the collective will allow aspiring vintners, small vineyard owners and oenophiles a chance to get their start in winemaking without assuming the really capital-intensive burdens.

Its designed to take some of the financial and logistical burden off small and aspiring winemakers by providing shared access to equipment  things like presses, harvest equipment, tanks and bottling lines  that would otherwise require a huge upfront investment, Tracey Love, who handles sales, events and marketing for Eastwoods neighbor, the Dave Matthews-owned Blenheim Vineyards, told The Daily Progress. Instead of having to buy everything on their own, winemakers will be able to use shared equipment without breaking the bank.

Eastwood is taking over the warehouse on Avon Street Extended that has served as a tasting room and bottling and storage center for Michael Shaps Wineworks since 2007. Shaps, a prominent Virginia winemaker, is consolidating his operations at his tasting room farther south, the former home of the shuttered Thatch Winery he purchased in 2022.

After moving into the warehouse on March 1, the Eastwood team plans to dedicate a few months to renovating the buildings roughly 16,000 square feet to build nine work areas for entrepreneurs to hang their winemaking licenses and experiment. Eastwood also plans to relocate its own production center to the warehouse.

Because of strict regulations set by the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority, alcohol licenses are directly tied to a certain amount of physical real estate that cannot be shared between producers. To be in compliance with the law, Eastwood said they will install nine different doorways along the warehouses back wall for each of the collectives winemakers.

I swear, were going have to have stickers made or something, its just a row of doors, joked Eastwood.

Another important feature, and one of the more avant garde ones, of the facility is its tasting room, where customers will have the opportunity to come and sample any of the wines made by the collectives participants.

Thats going to be a real novelty, because usually, if you go to a winery, thats it. You have one choice: that winerys stuff, said Eastwood. This will be really an urban feel, being able to come in and say, Im going to do a flight of these four different winemakers wines. Its cool for the winemakers, because none of them have a retail space, and thats such a big part of selling wine.

The tasting room, which is tentatively set to open in late spring, will be particularly valuable for those fledgling, or even veteran, winemakers who do not have a place to otherwise display or sell their wines.

This is true for Erin Robertson, who runs Dogwood & Thistle Wine Company with her husband Sandy. While the couple both have decades of experience working in top wine countries, including Californias Napa and Sonoma valleys, it was only a few years ago that they decided to start making and selling wine under their own brand as a creative outlet.

The company partners with small, family-owned vineyards for grapes and custom crush facilities to produce about 200 to 300 cases of wine annually, so they dont have a place  or tasting room  to call their own. Robertson told The Daily Progress that while Dogwood & Thistle distributes to customers across the commonwealth, they havent had an address to direct people to when asked the question, Can we come visit you?

When youre small like us, you cant afford equipment or need your own space, said Robertson. Its going to be really exciting way for consumers to see experimentation and discover small producers. When people start planning their wine visits, they want to visit some place thats new and something to discover thats cool. This really provides an opportunity for that in an unique way.

Robertson said shes particularly excited that the collective will give entrepreneurs the opportunity to experiment, to take the risks typically only larger producers can take.

When people are coming from within or outside the industry with fresh ideas and able to experiment with them with relatively low stakes, that experimentation will ultimately drive the industry forward, she said. More people will learn and learn whats working here and whats possible here.

The first winemakers set to to join the collective includes a blend of seasoned vintners and industry newcomers: the Robertsons; research enologist for the Winemakers Research Exchange and 2023 Wine Person of the Year Joy Ting; Julie Linker, a psychologist who founded a 5-acre vineyard in Nelson County in 2022; and Tasha Durrett, a longtime wine enthusiast and founder of Black Women Who Wine LLC.

Durrett is a prime example of someone whos able to translate their passion for wine tasting to winemaking thanks to the collective, said Eastwood. While she doesnt own a vineyard, she plans to work alongside Ting on a sparkling red wine.

Shes going to take it one step at a time, said Eastwood. Right now shes working on her label and her business plan and thats the true incubator piece of the business; theres people of all different stages of their businesses.

Jake Busching, who serves as the head winemaker for Eastwood, will also be producing his own brand of Jake Busching Wines out of the new collective space as well as mentoring some of the less-established members. A handful of other notable winemakers in the region have expressed interest in being part of a formal mentorship program at the collective, according to Eastwood.

Were so excited, said Eastwood. Weve been working on it for, well, pretty much since we opened Eastwood. This was always part of what we wanted to do.

Only a 10 minute drive from downtown Charlottesville, the collective will also serve as a place for locals and tourists to taste Central Virginias unique terroir.

Will Curley, the owner of the Wine Guild of Charlottesville, told The Daily Progress the collective will give visitors a snapshot of what were doing in this area from a number of different viewpoints.

It will give customers a chance to explore a variety of local wines in one location, closer to Charlottesville than any other vineyard or winery.

Putting this in the city  there are populations and groups that havent had wine brought to them in a manner thats understandable and enjoyable, said Curley.

Virginia does a good job of making wine accessible and the more stuff in the city of Charlottesville the better, he added. Point-blank and period.
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Africa is a multilingual continent and many adults speak several languages fluently. An empirical study by a research team led by the Potsdam psycholinguists Prof. Dr. Natalie Boll-Avetisyan and Paul O. Omane now shows that the roots of this multilingualism can be found in infancy: In Ghana, most babies grow up multilingually, with most of them coming into contact with two to six languages and just as many regular speakers of each language. The researchers also showed that the babies heard some languages primarily indirectly  i.e. via radio, television or background conversations  while other languages were used by their caregivers to directly communicate with them. The results of the study have now been published in the journal Cognitive Development.

The study, which examined 121 babies aged three to twelve months in Accra, the capital of Ghana, demonstrates a remarkable variety of language input in the early months of life. The children are regularly exposed to two to six languages. Strikingly, the number of caregivers the children have also ranges between two and six, and babies who have more adults in their daily lives who regularly take care of them also hear more different languages. In Ghana, families often live in so-called "compound buildings", where many everyday interactions take place in the courtyard, where family, neighbors and other relatives play an important role in the lives of children.

The idea that a child learns only one particular language from a single caregiver, as is often assumed in Western cultures, does not apply to these communities. Rather, children are surrounded by a rich spectrum of linguistic inputs from the very beginning." Paul O. Omane, first author of the study

"The majority of studies on children's language acquisition have been conducted in Western industrialized nations, which is why they often focus on a rather narrow conception of multilingualism. Our research shows that other societies show a much more vibrant multilingual environment," the study's lead researcher, Prof. Dr. Natalie Boll-Avetisyan adds.

A key finding of the study is the distinction between direct and indirect language input. While English is primarily acquired through indirect channels such as television and official communication, children receive most of the local languages (such as Akan, Ga and Ewe) through direct contact with their caregivers. Accordingly, the proportion of direct input is higher in the local languages than in English, which is predominantly present as indirect input.

It is often emphasized how important direct language contact is for language acquisition," Natalie Boll-Avetisyan says. "However, our results suggest that indirect input  especially through media and official communication  also plays an essential role in the children's daily lives, particularly in urban contexts."

As a result of their empirical study, the researchers call for a broader view in language research. The common assumptions do not reflect the diversity and complexity found in other cultural contexts such as Ghana. The study makes it clear that it is not only the number of languages a child hears, but also the diversity of people and the different forms of input that have a decisive influence on language acquisition. "Our research shows that for many children, a multilingual environment is a dynamic, vibrant reality from the very beginning. Multilingualism is not just a bonus, but a fundamental part of children's identity and social structure," the researcher says.
A recent study published in the journal Engineering delves into the complex world of assessing the transmission risk of infectious diseases in indoor spaces. With the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding how to accurately evaluate the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) has become crucial.

Governments worldwide implemented NPIs to control the spread of COVID-19. Many studies used simulations to measure the risk of infection transmission before and after implementing these measures. However, the choice of metric to quantify this risk can lead to different conclusions about the effectiveness of a policy.

The research team, led by researchers from various institutions in The Republic of Korea, analyzed the correlation between different transmission-risk metrics, pedestrian environments, and types of infectious diseases. They used data generated from simulations to conduct their analysis. Five different metric types were examined, including infection-based metrics, contact-based metrics, and network-based metrics (degree centrality, betweenness centrality, and closeness centrality).

An agent-based simulation model was developed using the Pedestrian Library feature of AnyLogic software, based on the layout of a building at Seoul National University. The model took into account lecture timetables, lecture room allocations, and agents' behavior rules. Three environmental variables-infection transmission rate, free activity rate, and zoning-were considered in the simulations.

The results showed conflicting outcomes among the five metric types in specific environments. When the randomness of pedestrian trajectories in indoor spaces was low, closeness centrality had a higher correlation coefficient with infection-based metrics than with contact-based metrics. Also, for infectious diseases with low transmission rates, the likelihood of discrepancies between infection-based metrics and other metrics increased within the same pedestrian environment.

This study has important implications. Facility managers should not rely solely on one metric to evaluate NPIs. Instead, they need to consider the type of facility and the nature of the infectious disease when choosing a metric. For example, in environments with low pedestrian randomness like schools, contact-based metrics might be more appropriate, while in high-randomness environments like shopping malls, closeness centrality among network-based metrics could be more reliable.

The research also validates some assumptions in previous studies. For instance, it shows a strong correlation between infection rate and exposure time, supporting the common use of exposure time as a metric in COVID-19 studies. However, the study has limitations, such as being limited to university facilities and not fully considering the impact of indoor population density. Future research is needed to explore more diverse facilities and conditions to further enhance the understanding of disease spread in indoor spaces.
New data from 8,700 women shows how underweight and obesity disrupt cyclesand why hitting a BMI sweet spot of 20 could boost fertility and ovulation.

Study: Body mass index and menstrual irregularity in a prospective cohort study of smartphone application users. Image Credit: FotoDuets / Shutterstock

In a recent study published in the journal npj Womens Health, researchers investigated the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and menstrual irregularities.

The menstrual cycle characteristics are among the most accessible indicators for female health assessment. Regular menstruation depends on a functional hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, whose disruption could lead to abnormalities, such as anovulation, amenorrhea, and irregular menstrual cycles. Research suggests that individuals with extreme BMIs are at a higher risk of menstrual irregularities.

Further, high BMI and obesity are frequently associated with infertility, primarily due to hormonal and metabolic disruptions affecting ovulation. Besides, underweight individuals are reportedly at a higher risk of ovulatory infertility, albeit studies have been limited to specific populations, such as female athletes and those with anorexia nervosa. Moreover, existing studies on menstrual irregularities and BMI extremities are inconsistent.

About the Study

The study used real-world data from over 8,700 participants and 191,000 menstrual cycles, making it one of the largest to explore BMI and menstrual health.

The present study investigated the relationship between menstrual cycle irregularities and BMI. The study used a period-tracking mobile application (LunaLuna) in Japan. Menstrual data were collected from January 2019 to March 2021 from app users who agreed to participate. Participants completed bimonthly questionnaires, which collected information on health conditions, lifestyle, education, and employment.

The first questionnaire (wave 1) was administered from January 23 to March 25, 2020, and the second (wave 2) was administered from May 14 to June 14, 2020. Respondents with data from both waves were included in the analyses. Participants were excluded if they had a BMI <15 kg/m or >35 kg/m, were pregnant, undergoing infertility treatment, using hormonal contraceptives or IUD/IUS, or logged fewer than three menstrual cycles. Additionally, extreme outlier cycles (>4 standard deviations from the mean cycle length) were removed to ensure data quality.

The primary outcomes were cycle length (CL), the proportion of persons with menstrual irregularities, and the proportion of biphasic cycles.

Menstrual irregularity indicators were infrequent menstrual bleeding (IMB, defined as CL  39 days but < 90 days) and absent menstrual bleeding (AMB, defined as CL  90 days, per FIGO guidelines). For basal body temperature (BBT) analysis, the luteal phase was defined as the 10 days up to the day before the next menstruation, while the follicular phase was defined as the first 10 days from the start of the menstrual cycle.

A cycle was considered biphasic if the difference in the mean luteal phase BBT from follicular phase BBT was greater than 0.3C, an indicator of ovulatory function. The relationship between BMI and outcomes was assessed using a restricted cubic spline model, with linear regression for continuous outcomes, logistic regression for binary outcomes, and Poisson regression for proportions (of biphasic cycles).

Findings

Women with a BMI below 19 or above 26 had a greater chance of experiencing absent menstrual bleeding (AMB), highlighting how weight extremes affect cycle regularity.

In total, 10,465 individuals completed both questionnaires (waves 1 and 2). Each subject logged 21 cycles on average. They were excluded if they had a BMI < 15 kg/m, fewer than three cycles, or were pregnant, under infertility treatment, or on hormonal contraceptives. Following exclusions, 8,745 participants with 191,426 menstrual cycles were included. BBT data were collected from 3,221 participants, with 15,883 cycles.

Overall, participants were in their late 20s or early 30s and were unmarried, employed, and non-smokers. Using Asian-specific BMI categories, around 14% of participants were underweight (1518.4 kg/m), 59% had normal BMI (18.522.9 kg/m), 13% were overweight (2324.9 kg/m), and 14% were obese (2535 kg/m). The average CL was 31.5 days. Further, 7% of subjects had IMB, and 4% had AMB. Participants with a BMI of 20 kg/m had the lowest mean CL, while those with a BMI of 16 kg/m or 30 kg/m had significantly longer cycles (+1.03 and +1.06 days, respectively).

Overweight and obese individuals had a higher IMB risk than those with normal BMI (Overweight: OR 1.56; Obese: OR 2.63). Further, underweight and obese individuals showed greater AMB risks than those with normal BMI (Underweight: OR 1.78; Obese: OR 1.94). A J-shaped relationship between BMI with IMB and AMB indicated that higher and lower BMIs increased the prevalence of IMB and AMB.

In addition, individuals with a BMI 18 kg/m or 21 kg/m had a higher IMB risk compared to those with a BMI of 20 kg/m. Similarly, AMB risk was significantly higher in individuals with a BMI 19 kg/m or 26 kg/m.

Moreover, there was an inverted J-shaped relationship between BMI and the proportion of biphasic cycles, suggesting that ovulatory function was optimal at BMI 20 kg/m but decreased at both higher and lower BMI values. This finding highlights that both overweight and underweight individuals may be at an increased risk of anovulation.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that even small changes in BMI outside the normal range could increase the likelihood of longer, unpredictable menstrual cycles.

The findings illustrate a nonlinear relationship between BMI and menstrual cycle characteristics. Individuals with a low or high BMI showed elevated risks of longer, irregular menstrual cycles. Further, an inverted J-shaped relationship for the proportion of biphasic cycles confirmed that both high and low BMI increased the risk of non-ovulatory cycles, potentially leading to ovulatory infertility.

Overall, individuals with normal BMI (particularly those around 20 kg/m) had the least risk of irregular, non-ovulatory menstrual cycles, highlighting the benefits of maintaining a normal BMI for reproductive health.

However, the study was conducted exclusively in Japan, and the authors note that BMI-adiposity relationships differ across ethnic groups. These findings may not be directly generalizable to non-Asian populations. Additionally, potential selection bias should be considered, as app users may not fully represent the general population. The reliance on self-reported BMI data is another limitation that should be acknowledged.
The University of Manchester has launched the British Heart Foundation (BHF) Manchester Centre of Research Excellence following an award of 4 million to support world-class cardiovascular disease from the leading charity.

[L to R] Professor Bryan Williams, OBE - Chief Scientific and Medical Officer, British Heart Foundation, Professor Tony Heagerty - Head of School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Professor Maciej Tomaszewski  BHF Manchester Centre of Research Excellence Co-Director, Professor Bernard Clarke - Associate Chief Medical Officer, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Miss Toli Onon - Joint Chief Medical Officer, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. Image Credit: The University of Manchester

The award from the BHF is part of a 35 million boost to UK cardiovascular disease research, with the funding stemming from the charitys highly competitive Research Excellence Awards funding scheme.

President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Duncan Ivison and Professor Tony Heagerty, Head of School of Medical Sciences in the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health delivered opening remarks.

Professor Maciej Tomaszewski, Deputy Director of the BHF Manchester Centre of Research Excellence and Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at The University of Manchester, said: The launch of the BHF Manchester Centre of Research Excellence marks a key turning point for cardiovascular research in Greater Manchester.

Built out of a need for collaboration, inclusion and innovation in this space, the Centre will serve as a world-class research environment. Over the coming years, we will strive forward to find answers to some of the biggest questions in our field, in the hopes that our research efforts will lead to positive health changes for people in the North West, the UK and beyond.

Manchester produced an outstanding bid in a very tough national funding competition. BHF was delighted to fund their bid because the Manchester research team and their research plan are outstanding, with a focus on tackling important aspects of heart disease with leading edge innovation, and a desire to make a real difference for patients. Professor Bryan Williams, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer, BHF

The BHF Manchester Centre of Research Excellence will focus on key cardiovascular diseases, including:

Discover the reasons why some babies are born with heart problems (congenital heart disease) and find ways in which these problems could be better predicted, potentially avoided, and treated when they occur in families.

Better understand the genetic drivers of high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes and other chronic conditions.

Provide new insights into the causes and consequences of heart failure and identify new potential treatment strategies.

Uncover the links between inflammation and inflammatory diseases (such as certain types of arthritis) and the higher risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke these patients carry and find ways to break these links.

Use Artificial Intelligence on largescale datasets to identify how we can better identify and prevent disease in patients with cardiovascular diseases, including those suffering from other conditions such as cancer.

Heart health is a key research priority for the Universitys Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health. Policy@Manchester, The University of Manchesters dedicated unit for influencing and challenging policymakers with research-informed evidence and ideas, is also focused on cardiovascular health through its Healthy Hearts initiative.

It is hoped the funding will help to break down siloes that have traditionally existed in research and encourage collaboration between experts from diverse fields, cross-discipline, to help answer some of the biggest questions in heart and circulatory disease research.

The BHFs investment for Manchester, announced in 2024, was followed by matched funding from the University - bringing the total investment into cardiovascular disease research at Manchester to 8 million.

In attendance at the launch event held at the historic Whitworth Art Gallery were the BHF Manchester Centre of Research Excellence Deputy Director, Professor Maciej Tomaszewski, Professor Bryan Williams, OBE, Chief Scientific and Medical Officer at the BHF, and the representatives of The University of Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Ms Toli Onon - Joint Chief Medical Officer and Professor Bernard Clarke - Associate Chief Medical Officer.
For the one million people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the United States, Medtronic plc, a global leader in healthcare technology, proudly announces U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of BrainSense Adaptive deep brain stimulation (aDBS) and BrainSense Electrode Identifier (EI).

There is no cure for debilitating neurological conditions like Parkinson's, however, deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been transforming the lives of people with Parkinson's and other neurological disorders for more than 30 years. DBS is similar to a cardiac pacemaker, but for the brain. It uses a surgically implanted neurostimulator via a minimally invasive procedure to transmit electrical signals to specific parts of the brain affected by debilitating neurological disorders.

Now Medtronic has enhanced its Percept DBS neurostimulators with exclusive BrainSense Adaptive technology, introducing aDBS for people living with Parkinson's. This feature personalizes therapy based on a patient's brain activity in real time  both in clinical settings and in daily life. It provides enhanced therapy personalization for symptom control that automatically adjusts, minimizing the need for patients to manually adjust stimulation.

"Medtronic is the only company in the world to offer an adaptive DBS system that dynamically adjusts therapy in real time," said Brett Wall, executive vice president and president of the Medtronic Neuroscience Portfolio. "This new era in Parkinson's care represents more than a decade of intentional innovationushering in personalized neuromodulation at scale that responds to a patient's changing needs, equipping clinicians with unparalleled insights, and setting a new standard for DBS therapy."

For more than ten years, Medtronic has been developing a complete, sensing-enabled DBS system leveraging exclusive BrainSense technology to detect, capture, and classify different brain signals, putting Medtronic at the forefront of incorporating brain-computer interface (BCI) technology into DBS therapy. Medtronic considers BCI technology a crucial element for developing innovative products that treat some of the cardinal symptoms of Parkinson's with specific focus on rehabilitation and restoring health. BrainSense Adaptive DBS is available to Medtronic DBS patients with Parkinson's who have been implanted with a Percept neurostimulator, as well as future Medtronic DBS patients. With more than 40,000 DBS patients served worldwide with Medtronic Percept devices, BrainSense Adaptive DBS presents the largest commercial launch (by several magnitudes) of BCI technology  ever.

"Adaptive deep brain stimulation will help revolutionize the approach to therapeutic treatment for patients with Parkinson's disease," said Helen Bronte-Stewart MD MSE, FAAN, FANA, John E. Cahill Family Professor in the department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Director of the Human Motor Control and Neuromodulation Lab at Stanford University School of Medicine. "The transformative personalized care we can achieve through automatic adjustment greatly benefits patients receiving therapy that adapts to their evolving needs."

The Medtronic Adaptive DBS Algorithm for Personalized Therapy in Parkinson's Disease (ADAPT-PD) trial highlights the potential of aDBS in clinical practice. Dr. Bronte-Stewart served as the global principal investigator for the trial, which was conducted as an international, multi-center, prospective, single-blind, randomized crossover study (between two modes of aDBS), and evaluated the safety and effectiveness of chronic dual- and single-threshold aDBS modes compared to continuous DBS (cDBS) for eligible patients with Parkinson's disease receiving DBS therapy. This study represents the largest and longest assessment of aDBS conducted in both clinical and home settings and was developed in collaboration with more than a dozen world-renowned neurologists and neurosurgeons from leading academic institutions across the globe including Stanford University School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, Massachusetts General Hospital and Amsterdam University Medical Center. The study methodology and sensing data from the study were published in npj Parkinson's Disease(opens new window), a journal within the prestigious Nature Portfolio.

"For patients who struggle with motor symptom fluctuations, dyskinesias, and other side effects with cDBS, aDBS may offer improved symptom control," said Todd Herrington, MD, PhD, director of the Deep Brain Stimulation Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, assistant professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School, and investigator for the ADAPT-PD trial. "Approval of this therapy represents an important step forward for patients and I look forward to seeing the ADAPT-PD study results published soon."

"Our BrainSense technology provides unique and clinically important insights that no other DBS system can offer, using a person's own brain signals to provide a window into their condition, in real time, over time," said Paolo Di Vincenzo, president of the Neuromodulation business, which is part of the Neuroscience Portfolio at Medtronic. "Our focus has always been on creating solutions that work for real lives, not just standalone symptoms. aDBS reflects that commitment, bringing a new expectation in Parkinson's treatment."

The U.S. FDA approval also includes the Medtronic BrainSense Electrode Identifier (EI), which helps reduce patient time spent in clinic to program their DBS settings. By using EI, clinicians can conduct an accurate and precise initial programming, 85% faster compared to traditional electrode selection .

BrainSense Electrode Identifier offers less ambiguity and greater efficiency compared to the traditional method of electrode selection by providing a personalized, real-time snapshot of a patient's brain signals, which can help provide insights into the proximal sweet spot for programming. This new method reduces initial contact selection time, streamlining the process and ensuring more precise, tailored therapy for each patient." Drew Kern, MD, MS, neurologist and associate professor of neurology, University of Colorado School of Medicine

"Our dedication to advancing DBS research and innovation has transformed therapeutic options for individuals with movement disorders and epilepsy," said Amaza Reitmeier, vice president and general manager, Neuromodulation portfolio at Medtronic. "With this FDA approval, which quickly followed our CE Mark, we are taking another significant step forward in delivering sensing-enabled personalized treatments to people with Parkinson's."

BrainSense aDBS and EI are also available(opens new window) in Europe. Patient programmings in the United States will begin at select healthcare systems over the coming weeks with availability nationwide in the coming months.

Since 1987, Medtronic has served more than 185,000 people with movement disorders and other indications in more than 70 countries with its life-changing cDBS therapy. Patients considering DBS therapy should discuss treatment options with their healthcare provider.
Child maltreatment has been the focus of two separate studies led by UQ researchers, who examined the main parental risk factors that lead to child abuse, as well as the behavioural impacts later in life.

Dr. Claudia Bull, from the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences analyzed data from more than 6,000 children born in Brisbane's Mater Mother's Hospital between 1981 and 1983, finding parental income, social isolation and education were the main risk factors that led to child maltreatment.

"This study examined the sociodemographic and perinatal characteristics of the mothers of these children to determine which were risk factors for physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect between ages zero to 15," Dr. Bull said.

"We found the odds of substantiated notifications for any type of child maltreatment were 1.88 times higher if the mother did not finish high school, and 1.44 times higher if parental household income was below the Australian median in 1981."

"This suggests we need to think how we address child maltreatment across the board, especially in child protection reporting where the rates are not adjusted for other important variables like socioeconomic status, regionality and access to supportive services."

Co-author Professor Steve Kisely said the study also found social isolation in the days after a woman gives birth was a significant risk factor for all types of abuse.

"This is reflected in previous studies too and underpins the need for targeted social support services prioritising connection for new mothers," Professor Kisely said.

"Interestingly, we found no evidence that maternal mental illness significantly increased the risk of child maltreatment.

"This research shows some factors thought to be linked to child abuse and neglect are not, which means we might be putting our resources in the wrong place."

Aggressive behavior and alcohol use

Children exposed to abuse, who show aggressive and anti-social behaviour in their teenage years, are 31 per cent more likely to be hospitalised for alcohol use later in life, University of Queensland research has found.

Dr. Mike Trott, from UQ's Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, said in one study data was analysed to find the link between teenage behavioural issues and hospital admissions for alcohol and substance use later in life.

We know that people who have experienced child abuse are nearly three times more likely to be admitted to hospital for alcohol and substance use when they're older. However, what wasn't clear was how behaviours shown in teenage years can impact this. We found adolescent internalising behaviours, such as depression, anxiety and withdrawal, did not influence the link between child maltreatment and alcohol and substance use. However, we found extreme externalising behaviours, like aggression, criminal activity and anti-social behaviour, in 14-year-olds were strongly linked to child maltreatment and alcohol and substance abuse when they were older." Dr. Mike Trott, from UQ's Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences

Co-author, Emeritus Professor Jake Najman said the study found teenagers with who had reported externalising behaviours were 31 per cent more likely to be admitted to hospital for alcohol use, and 22 per cent for substance use, when they were older.

"We hope these findings will help inform agencies how to better prepare for these types of hospital admissions, and lead to more targeted intervention programs," he said.

The research was funded by the Metro South Research Support Scheme.

The parental risk factors research paper was published in Social Science & Medicine.

The behavioural research paper was published in Addiction Journal.
Stress granules (SGs) are transient organelles that form when cells experience stress, serving as critical hubs for RNA metabolism and cellular survival. Comprised of RNA-binding proteins and nucleic acids, SGs exhibit liquid-like properties and are involved in processes like mRNA regulation and protein synthesis. However, the dysfunction of SGs has been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). While their role in pathology has been hypothesized, the exact mechanisms by which SGs interact with other cellular structures and contribute to disease progression, particularly through interactions with other organelles, remain elusive. This knowledge gap has driven a need for in-depth research into SG dynamics and their cellular interactions.



In a review (DOI: 10.1093/procel/pwae057) published in Protein & Cell on October 23, 2024, researchers from Peking University Health Science Center discusses how SGs interact with various cellular organelles and how these interactions influence neurodegenerative disease pathways. Using cutting-edge techniques such as proximity labeling and biochemical fractionation, critical shared components between SGs and other cellular structures have been identified, including processing bodies, paraspeckles, and membrane-bound entities like lysosomes and the endoplasmic reticulum. These findings offer fresh insights into the interactions between SGs and other cellular organelles, and their collective roles in RNA metabolism and cellular responses to stress.



One of the key discoveries is the dynamic relationship between SGs and promyelocytic leukemia (PML) nuclear bodies, which plays a crucial role in the clearance of toxic intranuclear inclusions linked to neurodegenerative diseases. The review also sheds light on the role of Annexin A11 in facilitating the interaction between SGs and lysosomes, thus influencing the transport and stability of RNA granules. Furthermore, the review highlights the potential of SGs as biomarkers for early diagnosis and monitoring of ALS and FTD, signaling the promise of non-invasive diagnostic tools in the future.



Dr. Peipei Zhang, the corresponding author of the review article, emphasizes the significance of understanding SG dynamics: This review discusses how SGs coordinate with other organelles to regulate cellular stress responses. Dysregulation of these interactions may drive neurodegeneration, presenting new targets for therapeutic intervention.



The findings discussed in this review article hold considerable promise for advancing the development of targeted therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. By mapping the interactions between SGs and other cellular organelles, this review lays the foundation for therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating these processes to slow disease progression. In addition, the potential for SGs to serve as biomarkers for early-stage diagnosis could improve patient outcomes by enabling timely intervention. This review underscores the importance of further investigating cellular organelles to identify novel strategies for combating neurodegenerative diseases, potentially reshaping the future of disease management and patient care.

Source: Chinese Academy of Sciences Journal reference: Liu, Y., et al. (2024). Stress granules and organelles: Coordinating cellular responses in health and disease. Protein & Cell. doi.org/10.1093/procel/pwae057.
Air India Shifts Delhi-Tokyo Flights To Haneda From 31st March 2025, Expands ANA Partnership

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:26 IST

The new Delhi-Tokyo Haneda flights will be operated using Air Indias Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, featuring 18 Business Class flatbeds and 238 spacious Economy seats.

Air India. (File photo)

Air India is making significant improvements to its non-stop flights between Delhi and Tokyo, starting 31st March 2025.

The airline will now operate four weekly flights to Tokyos Haneda Airport (HND), replacing the current services to Narita International Airport (NRT).

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Alongside this, Air India is expanding its partnership with All Nippon Airways (ANA), a fellow Star Alliance member, to provide passengers with convenient connections from Tokyo Haneda to six major cities in Japan.

Why the Move to Haneda?

Haneda Airport is just 18 km from downtown Tokyo, compared to Naritas 70 km distance. This shift will cut travel time to Tokyo Station from nearly an hour to just 30 minutes

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer of Air India, shared, By providing easy access for our guests to ANAs domestic Japan network, combined with ANAs reach into Air Indias extensive Indian network, were creating a stronger bridge between our two nationsmaking travel simpler and truly rewarding for our common guests."

Expanded Partnership with All Nippon Airways (ANA)

Air India has also expanded its codeshare agreement with Japans leading airline, ANA. From 1 April 2025, Air India passengers will be able to connect seamlessly from Haneda to six major Japanese cities:

Fukuoka

Hiroshima

Nagoya

Okinawa

Osaka

Sapporo

In return, ANA will place its NH code on Air Indias flights between Delhi and major Indian cities, including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Pune.

New Flight Schedule for Delhi-Tokyo Haneda

AI358: Departs Delhi at 20:20, arrives at Tokyo Haneda at 07:55 (next day). Operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Departs Delhi at 20:20, arrives at Tokyo Haneda at 07:55 (next day). Operates on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. AI357: Departs Tokyo Haneda at 11:50, arrives in Delhi at 17:25. Operates on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

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These flights will continue to be operated on Air Indias Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, offering 18 Business Class flatbeds and 238 Economy seats.

Bookings for the Delhi-Tokyo Haneda flights are now open through all Air India channels, with codeshare flights available for booking soon.

About the Author Samreen Pall Samreen Pall, Senior Sub-Editor at News18, is a Computer Science graduate but a writer at heart, Samreen has one motto that she swears by: 'Everything is dull and useless if it has no drama in it.' This motto c... Read More Samreen Pall, Senior Sub-Editor at News18, is a Computer Science graduate but a writer at heart, Samreen has one motto that she swears by: 'Everything is dull and useless if it has no drama in it.' This motto c... Read More

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First Published: March 03, 2025, 15:26 IST
Bitcoin, ADA, XRP, Ethereum, SOL: Why Are Crypto Prices Rising Today?

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 09:29 IST

Major cryptocurrencies surged after Donald Trump announced Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Solana, and Cardano would be in a US cryptocurrency reserve. The market rose 10%, adding $300 billion in value.

The total crypocrurency market has risen about 10% or more than $300 billion post the hours of Trump's announcement.

Crypto Currency Prices Rising: Major cryptocurrencies experienced significant gains in the past 24 hours following a social media announcement by former US President Donald Trump. Trump stated that five digital assets  Bitcoin, Ether, XRP, Solana, and Cardano (ADA)  would be included in a strategic US cryptocurrency reserve.

This announcement spurred a surge in the total cryptocurrency market, which rose by approximately 10%, adding over $300 billion in value.

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Bitcoins price increased by 8% in the 24 hours following the announcement, reaching over $92,000 on coinmarketcap.com. XRP saw a significant 28% increase, approaching the $3 mark.

Ethereum, currently the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap, experienced an 11.14% jump, surpassing $2,400.

Solana, another cryptocurrency included in Trumps plan, rose by 20% to reach $173.24, while Cardano (ADA) saw a remarkable 61% increase, hitting the $1 mark.

Trumps plan for a US Cryptocurrency Reserve, revealed on Truth Social, expands on a January executive order regarding digital assets. The specific cryptocurrencies to be included in the reserve had not been publicly disclosed until this recent announcement.

In a subsequent post, Trump emphasized the importance of Bitcoin and Ethereum, stating that they, along with other valuable cryptocurrencies, would form the core of the reserve.

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Trump has actively sought support from the crypto industry for his 2024 election campaign, reciprocating with support for crypto-related policies. He is scheduled to host the first White House Crypto Summit on Friday, and his family has launched their own cryptocurrency coins.

Under Trumps administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has ceased investigations into several cryptocurrency companies and dropped a lawsuit against Coinbase, the largest US-based crypto exchange.

About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Inst... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:22 IST
Closing Bell: Markets Close Slightly Negative; Sensex Falls 112 Points, Nifty Remains Above 22,100

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:48 IST

Reliance, Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Bank, Adani Ports, Maruti Suzuki faced the highest pressure falling up to 2.17 per cent.

Stock Market Today.

In a highly volatile trade, the domestic equity market recovered in the last leg of the trading day on Monday. Though the NSE Nifty reclaimed much of its territory lost early in the day, it closed slightly in the red by 5.4 points above 22,100 at 22,119.30. The BSE Sensex also recovered during the afternoon trade but ended the day lower by 112.16 points at 73,085.94.

However, midcap stocks recovered sharply as the Nifty Midcap Index jumped over 2% from the days low.

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At around 11 am, the domestic equity market fell into the red after opening significantly higher. The BSE Sensex had fallen below the 73,000 mark at 73,955, which is 720 points lower than the days high recorded during its opening trade, while the NSE Nifty was trading lower by 71 points at 22,062, which is over 210 points off the days high.

In the opening trade, the BSE Sensex had surged by 449.33 points at 73,647.43 and the NSE Nifty had risen by 106.1 points at 22,230.8. However, the market swung within the half an hour.

Among the 30 shares of Sensex, 18 shares ended in green.

Reliance, Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Bank, Adani Ports, Maruti Suzuki faced the highest pressure falling up to 2.17 per cent.

However, UltraTech Cement, Bharti Airtel, NTPC, Infosys, and Bajaj Finance ended the day in green rising by 2.21 per cent.

Out of total 4,234 stocks traded on the BSE, 1,237 scrips advanced and 2,844 shares declined. However, 153 shares closed flat as compared with the previous day.

Expert Opinion On Markets Today

Vinod Nair, head of research at Geojit Financial Services, said, The market experienced a gradual recovery from its intraday low, driven by improving economic growth, a rebound in consumption expenditure, and healthy expansion in the agricultural sector, which influenced investor sentiment. With valuations approaching oversold levels, domestic indicators suggest potential for a rebound."

However, the longevity of this recovery remains uncertain, contingent on easing global trade uncertainties, which currently show limited signs of improvement, he added.

Technical View

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Vatsal Bhuva, technical analyst at LKP Securities, said, On Monday, Nifty found support around 22,000 and managed to close above the crucial 38.2% Fibonacci retracement level of 22,043, derived from the 2022 low of 15,213 to its all-time high of 26,277. The RSI remains in a highly oversold zone at 22 on the daily chart, indicating a possible short-term rebound towards the 400-day EMA at 22,475."

However, the broader trend remains bearish, favoring a sell-on-rise approach unless Nifty decisively closes above 22,600. Immediate resistance is at 22,300, while key support stands at 22,000. If this support is breached on a closing basis, the next support lies at 21,800, Bhuva added.

About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to markets, economy and companies. Having a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris has been previously asso... Read More Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to markets, economy and companies. Having a decade of experience in financial journalism, Haris has been previously asso... Read More

Stay updated with all the latest news on the Stock Market, including market trends, Sensex and Nifty updates, top gainers and losers, and expert analysis. Get real-time insights, financial reports, and investment strategiesonly on News18.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:23 IST
Board Exams 2024: WB HS, TN, CGBSE, AP Inter And Kerala Class 10, 12 Exams Begin Today

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 09:56 IST

Board exams 2024 begin today in Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Kerala, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh And TN Board exams begins today. (Image: Getty)

Board Exams 2024: The state board exams for Class 10 and Class 12 are starting today, March 3, in several states. Exams are scheduled in Kerala, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, following their respective timetables. Check details of all these board exams below:

West Bengal HS Exams 2025

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The West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education (WBCHSE) is conducting the Class 12 (HS) board exams from March 3 to March 18, 2025. Today, students are appearing for language papers, including Bengali, English, Hindi, Nepali, Urdu, and others. The exam will be conducted from 10 am to 1:15 pm, with the first 15 minutes given for reading the question paper.

Chhattisgarh Board Exams 2025

The Chhattisgarh Board of Secondary Education (CGBSE) is conducting the Class 10 board exams from March 3 to March 24, 2025. On the first day, students are appearing for the First Language paper, which includes Hindi (General and Special). The exam is being held from 9 am to 12:15 pm.

Kerala Board Exams 2025

In Kerala, the SSLC (Class 10) and Plus Two (Class 12) exams will be held from March 3 to March 26, 2025. For SSLC students, the first exam is the First Language Part 1 paper, with subjects such as Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, Urdu, and others. The exam will be conducted from 9:30 am to 11:15 am.

For Class 12 students, the first paper is English (Part 1) for all streams. To assist students during the exams, DHSE Kerala has set up a helpline. Students can contact 0471 2323192 between 9 am and 5 pm on exam days for any queries.

ALSO READ: BSEB Bihar Board 12th Result 2025 Expected This Month, Check Details Here

Andhra Pradesh Inter Exams 2025

The Board of Intermediate Education, Andhra Pradesh (BIEAP), has started the AP Intermediate Second Year exams from today. These exams will continue till March 20, 2025. On the first day, students are appearing for the Second Language Paper-II from 9 am to 12 noon.

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Tamil Nadu Class 12 Exams 2025

In Tamil Nadu, the Class 12 board exams are scheduled from March 3 to March 25, 2025. On the first day of the exam, students are appearing for language papers across all streams.

About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, latest in ... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:55 IST
Jharkhand Board Class 8, 9 Exam 2025 Revised Schedule Released; Admit Cards On March 5

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 12:32 IST

Jharkhand Board Exam 2025: Class 8, 9 schedule out. The revised exam admit cards will be available for download on the official JAC website, jac.jharkhand.gov.in, from March 5 onwards.

The JAC 8th, 9th exams: Students can collect their hall tickets from their respective schools. (Representative image/File)

The Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) has announced revised dates for the Class 8 and 9 board exams. The Class 8 exams will now be held on March 10 in two shifts, and the Class 9 annual exams will take place on March 11 and 12. The revised exam admit cards will be available for download on the official JAC website, jac.jharkhand.gov.in, from March 5 onwards. Students can collect their hall tickets from their respective schools.

The Jharkhand board class 8 exams were earlier scheduled to commence on January 28, 2025, while the class 9 exams were scheduled to be held on January 29 and 30, 2025. However, all these exams were deferred.

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Jharkhand Board Class 8, 9 Exam 2025 Revised Schedule

The Jharkhand board class 8 Hindi, English, Additional language, Mathematics, Social Science, and Science exams will take place on March 10 in two shifts.

The class 9 Hindi A, Hindi B, and English, Mathematics and Science will be held on March 11 and Social Science and other language on March 12.

The exams will be conducted in two shifts  from 9:45 AM to 1 PM and from 2 PM to 5:15 PM. This year, 5,18,002 students applied for the 8th exam, and 4,77,096 students registered for the 9th class exam.

JAC Class 8, 9 Exam Schedule 2025: How To Check Notice?

Step 1  Visit the official website at jacexamportal.in

Step 2  Search and click on the class 8/9 exam schedule notice on the homepage

Step 3  Read the notice. Download and save it for further reference.

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This announcement comes after the recent rescheduling of Class 10 Hindi and Science exams. These papers were allegedly leaked on social media, prompting the JAC to cancel the exams initially scheduled for February 20. The rescheduled Hindi exam will now take place on March 7, followed by the Science exam on March 8.

The Jharkhand Police have apprehended 10 individuals in connection with the alleged paper leak. Over 7.84 lakh students across Jharkhand are appearing for the Class 10 and 12 board examinations, which commenced on February 11 with heightened security measures at 2,086 exam centres.

About the Author Sukanya Nandy Sukanya Nandy is a sub-editor at News18.com. She has been writing and reporting for the education and careers section of the website since 2021. She completed her graduation in English followed PG in Journalism... Read More Sukanya Nandy is a sub-editor at News18.com. She has been writing and reporting for the education and careers section of the website since 2021. She completed her graduation in English followed PG in Journalism... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 12:23 IST
Can A Woman Be Arrested At Night? Whats The High Court Order On This? Explained

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 16:06 IST

The court highlighted that the law prevents the arrest of a woman at night or before sunrise except in exceptional situations. It observed that the provision does not define what constitutes an exceptional situation

A single Judge of the High Court held that the arrest of the woman was in breach of Section 46(4) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).(Representational Image)

A woman cannot be arrested after sunset and before sunrise, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has ruled, citing the legal provision in the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, which says the arrest is directory not mandatory.

A single Judge of the High Court held that the arrest was in breach of Section 46(4) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).

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What Did The High Court Say?

The court highlighted that the law prevents the arrest of a woman at night or before sunrise except in exceptional situations. It observed that the provision does not define what constitutes an exceptional situation.

The court, however, underlined that there could be a situation where a heinous offence is committed by a woman at night and the magistrate may not be available for obtaining permission. Under such a situation, the accused woman may escape, The Hindu report said. Therefore, such mechanical adherence to procedure can injure public interest".

Referring to the case of Salma vs the State", the court noted that a single judge had previously framed guidelines regarding the arrest of women. But the division bench had found these guidelines insufficient in providing clarity to law enforcement officers.

The bench suggested that the state legislature could consider amending Section 43 of the BNS in line with the recommendation made by the Law Commission in its 154th report.

The court also set aside a single judges order for disciplinary action against Inspector Anita and Head Constable Krishnaveni, who had arrested a woman after sunset.

What Is The Legal Provision For The Safeguard Of Women?

Two provisions for the safeguard of a woman from the arrest by the police are under Section 43(5) of BNSS, similar to Section 46(4) of CrPC. First, no arrest will happen after sunset and before sunrise except in exceptional circumstances.

In exceptional circumstances, a woman police officer must seek the permission of the jurisdictional magistrate by making a written report. Section 46(4) of the CrPC is a beneficial provision incorporated to ensure the safety of women.

The requirement of the provisions of sub-section (4) of Section 46 is two-fold. If the Police Officer wants to arrest the woman after sunset and before sunrise, there must exist exceptional circumstances for such arrest.

In cases wherein, such exceptional circumstances do exist, a Lady Police Officer shall make a written report and obtain prior permission of the Judicial Magistrate, First Class in whose jurisdiction the offence is committed or the arrest is to be made.

Whats Section 46(4) Of CrPC?

The 135th report of the Law Commission of India on Women in Custody (1989) recommended that no women shall be arrested after sunset and before sunrise. If there are exceptional cases, prior permission of the immediate superior officer shall be obtained, or if the case was of extreme urgency, then an arrest report with reasons shall be made to the immediate superior officer and to the magistrate, The Hindu report added.

Similar recommendations were made in the 154th report of the Law Commission in 1996, and Section 46(4) of CrPC was inserted with some changes in 2005.

Whats The Constitutional Protection?

Clause (1) of Article 22 of the Constitution of India which is one of the fundamental rights in Part III, declares that No person who is arrested shall be detained in custody without having informed, as soon as maybe, on the grounds for such arrest nor shall he be denied the right to consult and to be defended by a legal practitioner of his choice."

Clause (2) of Article 22 of the Constitution says every person arrested and detained in custody shall be produced before the nearest magistrate within a period of 24 hours of such arrest excluding of course the time necessary for the journey from the place of arrest to the Court of Magistrate.

What Is The Supreme Courts Take?

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The Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court had directed the state to discuss the directions to all police officials that no woman shall be arrested without the presence of a lady constable at night or before sunset.

In the case, the Supreme Court had observed that strict compliance in such a case would cause practical difficulties.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 16:06 IST
Russia-Ukraine War: Who Are The Biggest Losers And Gainers? What Next? Explained

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Shilpy Bisht



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:53 IST

Ukraine is the biggest loser, while France, UK and Germany are jittery about Trumps handling of the crisis and keeping Europe out of the negotiation. US, China, Russia seem to have an upper hand right now

The face-off between US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House caught the attention of the world leaders. (AFP Photo)

Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump had a major fallout at the White House over the resolution to end the war. The great television", as Trump called it, was a disaster in terms of international diplomacy.

The face-off caught the world leaders attention as they pointed out the tone of Trump, which they believed humiliated Zelenskyy, who is an ally of the United States.

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told media on Sunday that they need to step up to a once in a generation moment" for the security of Europe, at a summit in London to discuss the war.

Starmer said getting a good outcome for Ukraine was vital to the security of every nation here and many others too". He was flanked by Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron during the official photo to mark the start of talks.

Let us understand who stands where in the Ukraine war, is there a gainer and what will it lead to from here.

Who Are The Biggest Losers?

Ukraine: After three years of the war, Ukraine has suffered massive casualties as a large part of its eastern territory has fallen to the hands of the Russian forces. If a ceasefire occurs, the Ukrainian authorities will struggle to reclaim the lost areas. Zelenskyy had in the past insisted that any peace deal include the full withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory. That includes not only areas Russia has seized in its full-scale offensive, but also the Black Sea peninsula of Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, and the regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, where Russia has backed separatists in fighting, also in 2014.

Ukraine regards any talks about Ukraine without Ukraine as such that have no result, and we cannot recognise agreements about us without us," Zelenskyy had said about the US-Russia meeting that took place in Saudi Arabia on February 18.

Zelenksyy has put a brave face and a more conciliatory tone with Trump, since he took the White House office in January and has vowed to end the war as soon as possible.

What happened on February 28 at the Oval Office has left a dent on Zelenskyys leadership, and experts believe he will not be able to recover from that.

Europe: It seems like Europe is nervous after how the whole negotiation scene with Ukraine and the United States have panned out. The earlier meeting between American and Russian officials on the war in Saudi Arabia had peeved many top European leaders, who accused Trumps administration of handing free concessions to Moscow by ruling out NATO membership for Ukraine and saying it was an illusion for Kyiv to believe it could win back the 20% of its territory now under Russian control.

France: President Macron had called February 17s informal meeting  not a summit," but to help Europe coordinate a response both to Washingtons increasingly unsympathetic posture towards the continent, and to whatever emerges from the White Houses fast-paced negotiations with the Kremlin. The mood in France  always cautious of US geopolitical manoeuvring  is particularly edgy right now, with newspaper headlines warning of a new Trump-Putin axis" that will sideline or abandon" Europe over the war in Ukraine. Macron even hit at Trump after his meeting with Zelenskyy, If someone is playing World War III, his name is Vladimir Putin," he said. (Trump had accused Zelenskyy of gambling with World War III").

UK: Keir Starmer is hoping to build a bridge between the Trump administration and Europe after the former berated Zelenskyy for not being grateful for US support in Ukraine war. Starmer said Europe must do the heavy lifting" to secure a lasting peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, and that the UK should lead the front. He emphasized that this effort must have strong US backing". Starmer vowed the UK would ramp up its support for Ukraine. That includes a loan of 2.26 billion British pounds ($2.84 billion). Starmer noted that the funds will not be coming from British tax dollars, but rather profits from frozen Russian assets. Ukraine will also be able to dip into the 1.6 billion pounds ($2 billion), in UK export finance to purchase over 5,000 air defense missiles. Starmer said European leaders agreed it is important to ensure Ukraines sovereignty and security. A third goal was to ensure Ukraine had robust defensive capabilities to protect itself from any potential future invasions. The fourth aim was to develop a coalition of the willing" among countries wanting to guarantee and possibly provide troops to defend long-term peace in Ukraine.

Germany: It seems Berlins support for Ukraine will remain strong. That is because Berlins political elite recognises that a bad deal  one that undermines Ukrainian sovereignty  would be disastrous for Germany. Over the past three years the country has successfully pivoted away from Russian energy and massively upped defence spending. But this has hit the German economy hard.

Who Are The Gainers?

US: As the dominant force within NATO, the US has solidified its leadership role in European security through the Ukraine war. At the same time, the US is also the primary supplier of arms to Ukraine. Coupled with increased military spending by NATO countries, American defence contractors have reaped substantial profits, as per Think China. The war has also led to a significant reduction in Russian energy exports to Europe, forcing it to import substantial quantities of higher-priced liquefied natural gas and other energy products from the US. The recent pressure by the Trump administration on Ukraine to reach a minerals deal is another example how the US is leveraging its position as the key negotiator of the war. It seems the short-term goal of the United States is to end the war, and the long-term one is to get less involved in the continent, given that the country has spent billions of dollars on Kyiv.

Russia: Moscow is particularly thrilled at the recent events unfolded between Ukraine, the US and Europe amidst the war. Trumps stance makes it harder for Ukraine to continue the war, while creating a fissure in NATOthat is Russias biggest security threat. All in all, a weaker Ukraine and a disunited West is probably the best-case scenario that Russia could hope for from the war. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said he would first and foremost like to listen" to the American proposals on ending the conflict in Ukraine. As for Europe, Moscow sees no point in inviting it to the negotiating table. Putin has always stated that the main conditions for starting negotiations to end the war including the recognition of Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories, the lifting of sanctions on Russia and denial of Ukraines request to join NATO. Reports suggest that the Trump administration could refuse Ukraine NATO membership.

China: After the outbreak of the war, China adopted a mediating stance between Ukraine and Russia. It has called for respect for Ukraines territorial integrity on the one hand, and maintaining close economic and trade ties with Russia on the other hand. Although Europe has accused China of providing Russia with dual-use goods, China insisted that it has the right to develop trade relations with Russia. China has also diversified its energy supply by increasing energy imports from Russia. Due to Western sanctions against Russia, Chinese firms dealing in automobiles, machinery and electronic products have made inroads into the Russian market and filled the void left behind by retreating Western, Japanese and South Korean companies. China and Russia are also deepening cooperation in developing Russias Far East, which would benefit the revamp of Chinas northeast region, as per Think China.

What Next?

After the Oval Office meeting, some Republican leaders suggested Zelenskyy should step down  a notion he firmly rejected. To change me, it will not be easy because it is not enough to simply hold elections," he said.

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Despite the tensions, both Kyiv and Washington have maintained communication at lower levels. Zelenskyy said while he remains open to negotiating with Trump, any peace agreement must ensure Ukraines sovereignty and security.

With European nations stepping up their support and UKs Starmer planning to bring a peace plan to Washington, the future of Ukraine  and its ties with the US  remains uncertain.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 12:32 IST
3 Minors Among 4 Arrested For Harassing Union Minister Raksha Khadses Daughter In Maharashtra

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 09:50 IST

The Maharashtra Police arrested four accused, including three minors, acting on a complaint filed by Union Minister Raksha Khadse, alleging that her daughter was harassed an event in Jalgaon.

Union Minister Raksha Khadse at a police station | ANI Image

The Maharashtra Police arrested four accused, including three minors, acting on a complaint filed by Union Minister and BJP leader Raksha Khadse where she alleged that her minor daughter and other girls were harassed during an event in Jalgaon.

In the police complaint filed on Sunday, the minister stated that the incident took place during the Sant Muktai Yatra in Kothali village on Friday night. Seven individuals were named in the FIR registered at the Muktainagar police station.

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Sources informed CNN-News18 that the accused hailed from the same village where the incident took place and were familiar with the ministers daughter from before.

The ministers bodyguard, who identified the perpetrators, accused them of grabbing his collar and threatening him during the incident.

The suspects face charges of stalking under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and POCSO Act, with additional IT Act provisions for unauthorised photography.

The Union minister said that while she was in Gujarat, her daughter had asked for permission to attend the event. She had instructed her daughter to be accompanied by security personnel for safety. The group of boys followed her daughter and her friends, taking photographs and videos. When the staff intervened, the boys became unruly, and a mob of 30 to 40 people gathered around them.

Sant Muktai Yatra takes place in the area every year on the occasion of Mahashivratri. Two days ago, my daughter went for the yatra. Some youths harassed her. I went to the police station to lodge a complaint against them," Raksha Khadse said.

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Kushanat Pingde, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Muktainagar said that the accused misbehaved with several girls and even clashed with their bodyguards when they tried to intervene. He named seven accused in the case, of whom one was arrested yesterday.

On February 28, some girls went near the Jhula during the Yatra). At that time, Aniket Bhui, Piyush More, Soham Kodi, Anuj Patil, Chetan Bhui, Sachin Palve and Kiran Madi, these people stalked the girls and molested them. An FIR has been registered, and three teams have been formed to arrest the accused. One of the accused, Aniket Bhui, already has 4 cases registered against him, and the rest have no previous cases against them," he said.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:37 IST
4 Men Barge Into House, Mutilate Owner's Private Part In Ghaziabad

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 21:25 IST

The incident took place in Shahpur Bamheta village under the Wave City Police Station limits on February 28, they said.

The victim, Sanjay Yadav, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Meerut. (Representational image)

Four people allegedly broke into the house of a 42-year-old man and mutilated his private part as he lay asleep, police said on Monday.

The incident took place in Shahpur Bamheta village under the Wave City Police Station limits on February 28, they said.

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The victim, Sanjay Yadav, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Meerut.

His son, Prince Yadav, has lodged a complaint in the matter, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Wave City Upasana Pandey said.

According to the complaint, the assailants entered the house while Yadav was asleep. "They rendered him unconscious by making him inhale an intoxicant and then inflicted the grievous injury," the officer said.

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Police said no CCTV cameras were mounted near the house, which may have helped identify the assailants.

The victim has not yet given a statement, and the motive behind the attack remains unclear, the officer added.

Location : Ghaziabad, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 21:25 IST
Bengaluru IPS Officer Accuses Boss Of Using Junior Cops To 'Plant Evidence' In Her Office

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 14:40 IST

In Bengaluru, IPS officer Vartika Katiyar accused senior officer D Roopa of conspiracy, alleging that she had junior officers plant files in her office, photograph them, and send them to Roopa

Katiyar claims that this was not an isolated event and accuses Roopa of a pattern of hostile behaviour, including threats to sabotage her annual appraisal. (News18 Hindi)

In an unusual occurrence in the Bengaluru Police Department, IPS officer Vartika Katiyar has reportedly accused her immediate boss D Roopa of planting evidence in her office. The incident, which allegedly occurred on September 6, 2024, involved two junior officers, Mallikarjuna and Manjunath. Katiyar alleged that the duo was acting at the behest of D Roopa.

According to Katiyar, the two junior officers entered her office without authorization, allegedly on the instructions of Roopa. The officers reportedly obtained the office keys from the police control room without permission. Once inside, they allegedly planted files and took photographs, which were then sent to Roopa via WhatsApp.

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This unusual incident came to light when Katiyar filed a complaint with the Chief Secretary on February 20. Katiyar claims that this was not an isolated event and accuses Roopa of a pattern of hostile behaviour, including threats to sabotage her annual appraisal.

When questioned, the two junior officers allegedly admitted to acting under Roopas directives. Katiyars personal assistant, Kiran Kumar, reportedly warned Mallikarjuna against entering the office without permission. After the incident, Kumar questioned the two officers, who allegedly confirmed they were following Roopas orders. Katiyar is seeking appropriate action from the Chief Secretary against Roopa.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 14:40 IST
Bihar Woman Kidnaps Her Son With Lover's Help, Demands Rs 25 Lakh In Ransom

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 09:06 IST

Police arrested a woman and her lover in Chhapra district of Bihar for kidnapping her son and demanding a ransom of Rs 25 lakh

Police arrested the woman Chhapra district of Bihar for kidnapping her son with the help of her lover.

A woman, along with her lover, kidnapped her own son and demanded a ransom of Rs 25 lakh from her family for building a house in the Chhapra district of Bihar, said the police.

The police arrested the woman, identified as Babita Devi, and her lover Nitish Kumar after the lady confessed to hatching a plan to kidnap her son, reported India Today.

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A complaint was filed with the police by the uncle of the 13-year-old boy, Aditya Kumar, regarding the boys kidnapping after which the matter came to light, said Saran Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kumar Ashish.

The man said that the kidnappers had threatened to kill the boy if the family failed to pay Rs 25 lakh ransom, said the official.

An investigation was carried out by the police during which they became suspicious about Aditya Kumars mother Babita Devi.

After the police caught the woman and brought her to the police station for questioning, the mother confessed to her involvement in the kidnapping.

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SSP Ashish said that Babita shared the whereabouts of her lover Nitish Kumar and accepted that she had kidnapped her son with her lover to get money for building their separate house.

After the confession of Babita, the police team reached the house of Nitish Kumar where he was arrested, and Aditya Kumar was soon released from his captivity in Patna.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:06 IST
'Can Social Media Posts Be Removed Without Hearing Owner's Side?': Supreme Court Asks Centre

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 12:40 IST

The two-judge bench heard a petition highlighting the removal of social media posts without issuing notice to the account owner or hearing their account.

The Supreme Court said it of was prima facie view that social media users should be heard before any action on their posts. (File Image)

The Supreme Court on Monday sought a response from the Centre regarding a plea highlighting the removal of social media posts without prior notice or a hearing given to the account holder responsible for the post.

A bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and AG Masih expressed their prima facie view that if an individuals identity behind a post can be ascertained, they should be granted a hearing before any action is taken against their post.

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Prima facie, we both feel that if there is an identifiable person then notice should be issued," the bench said.

Consequently, the Court issued a notice to the Central government based on a plea submitted by the Software Freedom Law Centre.

What Did The Petition Say?

The petitioner argued that intermediaries like X (formerly Twitter) frequently remove tweets following government directives, often without informing the account owner.

Representing the petitioner, Senior Advocate Indira Jaising acknowledged the governments authority to remove information but stressed the importance of notifying the individual responsible for the tweet, arguing that neglecting this step violates the principles of natural justice.

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Jaising said the law stipulates that notice should be issued to the person or the intermediary in case of an objectionable post. Responding to her argument, the two-judge bench said, If a person is identifiable, then he has to be given notice and if not then the intermediary. It can be read in that manner also."

Jaising agreed, adding, If it is read in this manner, then the State will be under mandate to issue notice to the identifiable person." The advocate also cited the example of Supreme Court Senior Advocate Sanjay Hegde, whose Twitter account was suspended for years without any hearing.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 12:40 IST
Chambal Dacoit Kusuma Nain Dies: UP Police, Villagers Recount Her 25-Year Reign Of Terror

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 18:49 IST

Kusuma Nain had gunned down 12 people and gouged out the eyes of two victims in Asta village in UPs Auraiya in 1984

Kusuma Nain was suffering from tuberculosis. (News18)

Dreaded dacoit Kusuma Nain, who was serving a life sentence in Uttar Pradeshs Etawah jail, died in Lucknow on Saturday night. She was suffering from tuberculosis and was moved to Saifai Medical College for treatment. As her condition worsened, she was transferred to KGMU, Lucknow, where she breathed her last.

Nain had gunned down 12 people and gouged out the eyes of two victims in Asta village in UPs Auraiya in 1984. Her death, the villagers said, finally brought them relief and justice".

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Nains reign of terror lasted for 25 years, making her one of the most feared dacoits in Chambals history. Her methods were brutal, her punishments inhumane, and her name evoked dread in those who had encountered her. While another dacoit Phoolan Devis story took a political turn after surrendering, Nains end was marked by anonymity and disgrace.

A LOVE STORY GONE WRONG

Born in 1964 in Tikri village, Jalaun, Nains life took a dark turn when she fell in love with Madhav Mallah. She eloped with him, only to be tracked down and brought back home by her father. Her father got her married to Kedar Nai of Kurauli village.

However, Madhav was determined to reunite with Nain, and with the help of his relative, the infamous bandit Vikram Mallah, he kidnapped her from her in-laws house.

THE RISE IN THE WORLD OF BANDITS

Forced into the ravines, Nain joined Mallahs gang and remained with them for eight years. After Mallahs death, she got associated with notorious dacoits Lalaram and Shriram. Later, she joined the gang of Ram Asre Tiwari, alias Fakkad Baba, marking her dominance in the Chambal ravines for nearly 16 years.

She became known for her brutality, often torturing hostages by branding them with burning wood and whipping them with chains. Senior UP Police officers recall that her gang was among the most feared in the region.

THE ASTA MASSACRE

On May 26, 1984, Nain, along with Lalaram and Shriram, led a bloody attack on Asta village. The massacre was a retaliation for the infamous Behmai killings of 1981, where Phoolan Devis gang had slaughtered 20 Thakurs. Nain and her gang believed that the villagers of Asta were sheltering Mallah dacoits, making them targets of a brutal vendetta.

During the attack, 12 men, including Bhagwandin, Dhaniram, Mahadev, and Lakshminarayan, were lined up and shot dead. A woman, Shivkumari, and her five-year-old son, Munesh, were burned alive inside their house. The entire village was set ablaze, reducing it to ashes.

The survivors were left with scars that would never heal, and Asta never recovered from the devastation. A senior UP Police officer stated, It was one of the most gruesome massacres in Chambals history. Kusuma showed no remorse."

TERROR IN CHAMBAL

Kusumas terror did not end with Asta. In 1996, she orchestrated another gruesome act when she kidnapped Santosh and his friend Rajbahadur. Suspecting them of being police informers, she dragged them to the ravines, brutally tortured them, and gouged out their eyes with sharp weapons.

The two barely survived, and their testimonies painted a horrifying picture of the Chambal bandits cruelty.

BRUTAL CRIMES THAT SHOCKED THE NATION

Nains name became synonymous with fear. She was accused of multiple kidnappings, including the 1995 abduction of retired ADG Hardev Adarsh Sharma. When his family failed to pay the ransom, Nains gang shot him and threw his body into a canal. Her criminal record included extortions, robberies, and brutal killings, earning her a bounty of Rs 35,000 at the height of her reign.

Senior UP Police officials described her as one of the most ruthless dacoits the state had ever seen."

THE TRANSFORMATION & SURRENDER

Despite her notoriety, Nain found solace in Fakkad Baba, who influenced her towards spirituality. In 2004, she decided to surrender. She had one conditionshe would only lay down her arms before then Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Mulayam Singh Yadav. However, due to his busy schedule, Yadav couldnt attend the surrender ceremony. Despite this, Nain and Fakkad Baba surrendered with their entire gang.

Nain was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Over the years, she served her sentence in various jails, including those in Etawah and Kanpur.

BODY BROUGHT TO KURAULI

As news of Nains death reached her native village, it was met with silence rather than sorrow. Her body, wrapped in a shroud, was brought to Kurauli, where her husband Kedar performed the last rites. The administration had deployed heavy security to prevent any unrest. Her funeral was attended by a few relatives, but the terror of her past lingered in the air.

SURVIVORSPEAK

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Santosh, a survivor of the Asta massacre, said, That night, they stormed our village like demons. I saw my friends being shot dead before my eyes. I still get nightmares. However, Kusumas death brought much-needed relief to us. She may be dead, but her shadow still looms over us. No one here has forgotten what she did."

Another villager, Rameshwar, said, For years, we lived under the fear of her wrath. Even after her surrender, people never truly felt safe."

First Published: March 03, 2025, 18:04 IST
'Dowry Deaths Remain a Grave Concern': Supreme Court Cancels Bail Of Victim's In-Laws

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 22:14 IST

The apex court cancelled the bail granted by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court to the parents-in-law of a woman who was found dead at her matrimonial home in January 2024 within two years of marriage.

The Supreme Court of India. (File Image/PTI)

The Supreme Court on Monday said it was unfortunate that dowry deaths remained a "grave social concern" and courts were duty bound to deeply scrutinise circumstances in which bail was granted in such cases.

A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta said in dowry-death cases, courts must be mindful of the broader societal impact, given the offence struck at the very root of social justice and equality.

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"It is unfortunate that in todays society, dowry deaths remain a grave social concern, and in our opinion, the courts are duty bound to undertake deeper scrutiny of the circumstances under which bail is granted in these cases," the bench said.

The apex court therefore cancelled the bail granted by the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court to the parents-in-law of a woman who was found dead at her matrimonial home in January 2024 within two years of marriage.

The FIR alleged she was subjected to continuous harassment and cruelty by her in-laws for dowry.

The bench noted a stricter judicial scrutiny was necessary in matters where a young woman lost her life in the matrimonial home soon after marriage, particularly where the record pointed to persistent harassment over unmet dowry demands.

"Allowing alleged prime perpetrators of such heinous acts to remain on bail, where the evidence indicates they actively inflicted physical, as well as mental, torment, could undermine not only the fairness of the trial but also public confidence in the criminal justice system," the bench said.

Section 304B (dowry death) of IPC, the court said, prescribed a stringent standard owing to the grave nature of offence and the systemic harm it perpetuated.

It said the social message emanating from judicial orders in such cases couldnt be overstated and when a young bride died under suspicious circumstances within barely two years in her marriage, judiciary must reflect heightened vigilance and seriousness.

The bench said a superficial application of bail parameters not only undermined the gravity of the offence itself but also risked weakening public faith in the judiciarys resolve to combat the menace of dowry deaths.

"It is this very perception of justice, both within and outside the courtroom, that courts must safeguard, lest we risk normalising a crime that continues to claim numerous innocent lives," it added.

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It raised concerns over the "seemingly mechanical approach" adopted by the high court in granting bail to the accused but upheld the bail to the two sisters-in-law of the woman given the nature of their roles.

The bench also directed the parents-in-law to surrender before the trial court/authority concerned.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 22:14 IST
ED Identifies Assets Worth Thousand Of Crores In Raids Against Realty Firms In Delhi-NCR

Published By :

PTI

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 21:05 IST

The ED said the police FIRs allege that WTC Faridabad Infrastructure Private Limited and its promoters "lured" the general public to invest in their project at Sector 111-114 of the city for residential plots.

Representative Image

The Enforcement Directorate Monday said it has identified assets worth thousands of crores of rupees following searches in Delhi-NCR against realty firm WTC Group and Bhutani Group.

The raids were conducted on February 27 at a dozen locations in Delhi, Noida (Uttar Pradesh) and Faridabad and Gurugram (both in Haryana) against WTC Group and its promoter Ashish Bhalla, and Bhutani Group and its promoter Ashish Bhutani under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), the federal agency said in a statement.

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The ED said the case stems from dozens of FIRs filed by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Delhi Police and the Faridabad Police against WTC Group and its promoters Ashish Bhalla, Suparna Bhalla, Abhijeet Bhalla, and Bhutani Infra and others for alleged cheating, criminal breach of trust and committing fraud on hundreds of homebuyers.

These police cases were registered on the basis of complaints from hundreds" of homebuyers and investors.

The Bhutani Infra said in a statement last week that it severed all ties with the WTC Group recently and is now fully cooperating with the ED in its investigation." No comment was immediately available from the WTC Group.

The ED said the police FIRs allege that WTC Faridabad Infrastructure Private Limited and its promoters lured" the general public to invest in their project at Sector 111-114 of the city for residential plots.

The promoters/directors hatched a criminal conspiracy" and siphoned off" the plot buyers hardearned money by not completing the project within the stipulated time and non-delivery" of the plots for more than 10 years, it said.

It was also alleged in FIRs that the Bhutani Infra group has acquired the WTC Group and has re-launched the project at Sector 111-114 Faridabad keeping the plot buyers in disarray" and committing fraud on investors and luring them to surrender" their units, according to the ED.

During the searches, the agency said, documents related to collection of more than Rs 3,500 crore from various investors were found against 15 projects in Delhi-NCR. It was not stated by the ED where these documents were recovered from.

Out of the 15 major projects being undertaken by the group (WTC), very few deliveries have been given indicating a well-orchestrated Ponzi scheme" and creation of assets in the name of other entities and siphoning off the funds abroad, it said.

It was also unearthed during search action that more than Rs 200 crore has been siphoned to Singapore and the, USA indicating investments overseas for acquiring of overseas assets.

Additionally, incriminating documents related to the WTC Group and Bhutani Group were seized wherein assets worth thousands of crores in market value have been transferred to the Bhutani Group at a nominal value, thus transferring the proceeds of crime (POC) at a nominal price," the agency alleged.

Documents related to cash" transactions were also found, it said.

The agency said it seized several incriminating" documents related to diversion, layering of funds apart from property documents like sale and registration deeds and laptops, hard drives etc. were also seized.

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Additionally, assets to the tune of thousands of crores have been identified in the name of WTC group," it said.

Fixed deposits of WTC Group of companies have also been frozen and seized along with jewellery and bullion worth Rs 1.5 crore, the ED said.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 21:05 IST
'Either Someone From Congress Or A Relative' Killed Her, Claims Himani Narwal's Mother

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:34 IST

Congress worker Himani Narwal's mother Savita has alleged that someone from the Congress party or any of their relatives is behind the killing of her daughter

Congress worker Himani Narwal's mother Savita has suspected that someone from the party or any relative has murdered her daughter. (Source: ANI)

Congress worker Himani Narwals mother Savita on Monday claimed that she had likely been murdered by either someone from her political party, college or relative.

I am sure the accused is a known person, either someone from the party or someone from her college or our relative. Only they could come home I am sure someone tried to do something to her, and she protested, which is why this happened She did not tolerate anything wrong I want the death penalty for the accused No one from the government has contacted us so far," said the mother, while speaking to ANI.

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#WATCH | One accused arrested in the Himani Narwal murder case | Rohtak, Haryana: Himani Narwals mother Savita says, I am sure the accused is a known person, either someone from the party or someone from her college or our relative. Only they could come home I am sure pic.twitter.com/OObJAIaN9E ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

Administration is here. What will they do? They will do everything that they can. We feel that it (perpetrator) could be someone associated with Congress party. She was sticking out like a sore thumb for a few people, right after Rahul Gandhis padayatra," she added.

#WATCH | Body of a woman Congress worker found in a suitcase | Rohtak, Haryana: Mother of deceased Himani Narwal, Savita says, Administration is here. What will they do? They will do everything that they can. We feel that it (perpetrator) could be someone associated with pic.twitter.com/gl6MQ2dTyo ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2025

Speaking about the last time she spoke to her daughter before her dead body was found, Savita said, I was with her till 4 pm on 27th February. She told me that she left for Delhi at 4 pm and got a bus from Delhi bypass. I spoke with her again that night. She told me that there is an event of Hooda sahab the next day and that she wont be able to speak. She said that she would call me up once she is free. I waited the entire day but when I called her up in the night, her number was switched offWhen I called her up next morning, it was switched on twice before switching off againI then received a call from PS at 3 pm."

Haryana Police Arrest Accused

Haryana police have arrested an accused in connection with the murder of Narwal on Monday.

The arrest was made after her body was found stuffed in a suitcase in Haryana on March 1. A passer-by found the suitcase near the Sampla bus stand on the Rohtak-Delhi highway one day before the scheduled municipal elections.

The Haryana police is interrogating the accused and has hinted at the possibility of more than one person being involved in the killing and disposing of the body.

The accused arrested has been identified as Sachin. Police have also recovered Himanis mobile phone and jewellery from the accused. During the interrogation, Sachin told the police that Himani was murdered at her residence.

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The accused is a resident of Bahadurgarh. He said that he was being blackmailed by Himani and had paid her money as well. The police is now verifying the statements of the accused.

Narwal was living in Vijay Nagar, Rohtak. The police said that her body had some injury marks when it was found. The family of Narwal said that they would not cremate her till the police arrest the killers.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Haryana, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 10:22 IST
Four-Minute Heist: Masked Men Steal Rs 30 Lakh From ATM In Telangana

Curated By :



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 07:33 IST

In a daring overnight heist, four masked thieves stormed an SBI ATM in Telangana's Rangareddy district, making off with a whopping Rs 30 lakh in a lightning-fast four-minute robbery.

Screengrab for the viral video. (X/@sanjoychakra)

In a shocking incident, four masked men broke into a State Bank of India ATM in Telanganas Rangareddy district in the early hours of Sunday. Within four minutes, they cut open the machine and escaped with Rs 30 lakh.

A viral CCTV video shows a man exiting a vehicle and approaching the ATM kiosk around 2 am. He sprayed a substance on the CCTV camera at the gate to obscure identification. The thieves also disabled the emergency alarm system by cutting its wires. However, they failed to notice the internal CCTV camera, which recorded the entire robbery, providing potentially crucial evidence.

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Of the four thieves, three used an iron rod and gas cutter to break open the cash dispensing machine while one stood guard outside. The thieves stole Rs 29.69 lakh in cash, leaving the ATM centre at 2.04 am. They even pulled down the shutter behind them.

Raju, the area assistant commissioner of police, told NDTV that five people were involved in the robbery. The thieves came equipped with gas cutters and iron rods to break open the ATM machine and take the wads of currency," he said. He added that they had been able to track the car on multiple CCTV cameras along its route.

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According to Raju, a Haryana-based gang is suspected to be behind the robbery. He said the robbers also attempted to loot another ATM at Mylardevpally but received an electric shock while trying to cut the alarm sensors, leading them to abandon their plan. Investigators suspect the same gang is responsible for similar ATM thefts in Bengaluru and Hosur, Tamil Nadu, all involving a similar modus operandi.

Multiple police teams have been formed to apprehend the culprits and recover the stolen money.

Location : Telangana, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:31 IST
Govts Net On Crypto Transactions & Wallets Widens With Over 2600% Rise In Forensic Analysis In Last 4 Years | Exclusive

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 08:43 IST

According to data reviewed by News18, the forensic examination of wallets and crypto transactions has experienced a massive spike since it became critical in monitoring illegal financial activities like money laundering, fraud, and ransomware payments

Cryptocurrencies have become a prime area of interest for forensic investigators and law enforcement agencies. (Shutterstock)

The government is ramping up efforts to track cryptocurrency transactions to combat cybercrimes, given that criminals directly or indirectly use the digital currency to cash out illicit funds. By analysing these transactions, the government aims to provide law enforcement agencies with crucial evidence for cybercrime investigations.

According to the data reviewed by News18, the forensic examination of wallets and crypto transactions has experienced a massive spike since it became critical in monitoring illegal financial activities like money laundering, fraud, and ransomware payments.

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As per the statistics of the National Cyber Forensic Laboratory, which comes under the Union Home Ministry, there has been a significant growth in crypto-related forensic cases between 2020 and 2024, with figures going up from only 11 cases in 2020 to a whopping 291 cases in 2024, which is over 2,600 per cent.

This growth depicts how cryptocurrencies have become a prime area of interest for forensic investigators and law enforcement agencies. During the last three years, analysis of crypto transactions has experienced a spike, pointing towards the governments upcoming plan.

Year-over-year growth of crypto forensics has been multiplying. In 2020, only 11 cases were reported, but this figure increased to 39 in 2021. In 2022, cases had risen dramatically to 280, then 379 in 2023 and 291 in 2024. The sudden increase in cases in 2022 and 2023 indicates that forensic units widened their activities to fight financial crimes associated with digital currencies, perhaps due to international regulatory changes and the increasing number of cybercrime offences.

As per a senior level officer who is linked with this analysis, in certain instances, it was observed that miscreants employed the same cryptocurrency investment platforms and thus, came under the scanner of law enforcement authorities (LEAs).

During investigation it was detected that crypto transactions which were under the scanner were performed on a certain platform. While LEAs got in touch with the platform, they did not provide information even when the transaction was worth crores, raising doubts on such platforms. Because multiple transactions were done in a similar pattern, these platforms are also being scanned," a top official told News18.

According to the data reviewed by News18, total 11,203 device forensics (mobile forensics, memory forensics, malware forensics, video/image enhancement, audio forensics, crypto analysis, AD Lab, damaged phone and hard disk forensics) have been carried out between 2019 and October 2024 by NCFL to assist LEAs.

Memory forensics, a process of reading volatile data in the RAM, has increased consistently over the years in cases. Analysis of hard drives, laptop CPUs, memory cards, and encrypted data is vital for restoring erased or concealed information. The number of investigations falling in this category increased from 80 cases in 2019 to 689 cases in 2024, out of which 588 were just laptop/CPU analysis cases.

In the same vein, mobile forensics cases have increased from 102 in the year 2019 to a staggering 5,362 cases by the year 2024. Analysis of mobile phones, cloud storage, Bluetooth devices, and SIM cards is very important in cybercrime investigations.

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The rise in mobile forensic cases is primarily a result of increasing use of mobile phones for communication, financial activities, and storage of data. Criminals tend to use mobile phones for their nefarious activities and, therefore, mobile forensics is crucial for law enforcers. Cloud storage and Bluetooth forensics have also become important sectors, with forensic investigators extracting secretly stored or remotely stored data to support investigations.

The increase in cyber threats has resulted in the growth of malware forensic cases, especially in analysing infected Windows systems, Linux/Mac servers, and mobile phones. The number of malware forensics cases grew to 1,596 by 2024. One of the most significant trends is hyperlink malware analysis, which grew exponentially from 39 cases in 2020 to 1,196 cases in 2024. This indicates the sophistication of phishing attacks and malware spread via malicious links.

About the Author Ankur Sharma With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 08:43 IST
Haryana Congress Worker Murder: Accused Arrested, Police Hint At Involvement Of More People

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:35 IST

Congress worker Himani Narwal's body was found stuffed in a suitcase on March 1. There were some injury marks on her body

22-year-old Himani Narwal (left) with Rahul Gandhi during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. (Photo: X/BVSrinivas)

Haryana Congress Worker Murder: Haryana police have arrested an accused in connection with the murder of Congress worker Himani Narwal on Monday.

The arrest was made after her body was found stuffed in a suitcase in Haryana on March 1. A passer-by found the suitcase near the Sampla bus stand on the Rohtak-Delhi highway one day before the scheduled municipal elections.

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The Haryana police is interrogating the accused and has hinted at the possibility of more than one person being involved in the killing and disposing of the body.

The accused arrested has been identified as Sachin.

Police have also recovered Himanis mobile phone and jewellery from the accused. During the interrogation, Sachin told the police that Himani was murdered at her residence.

The accused is a resident of Bahadurgarh. He said that he was being blackmailed by Himani and had paid her money as well. The police is now verifying the statements of the accused.

It had set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Sunday to investigate the murder of the Congress worker. Rohtak Police has deployed its four teams to look out for culprits, PTI reported.

Narwal was living in Vijay Nagar, Rohtak. The police said that her body had some injury marks when it was found.

The family of Narwal said that they would not cremate her till the police arrest the killers. Narwals mother Savita had also alleged that some party workers were jealous of her daughter.

Election and party claimed my daughters life. She made some enemies due to that. These (perpetrators) could be even from the party, they could be her friends too. I wont perform her last rites until she gets justiceYes there was (a family dispute), we lived in a little fear. After the election, she had become a little disillusioned with the party. She said that she wanted a job and that she didnt want to work much for the partyShe was associated with Congress for the past 10 years. She had also agreed to get married. She was pursuing LL.B," said her mother Savita to ANI.

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I am sure the accused is a known person, either someone from the party or someone from her college or our relative. Only they could come home I am sure someone tried to do something to her, and she protested, which is why this happened She did not tolerate anything wrong I want the death penalty for the accused No one from the government has contacted us so far," she added.

Haryana Congress leaders said that 22-year-old Narwal was an active party leader. She was also seen interacting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during his Bharat Jodo Yatra. The party members have demanded a high-level investigation into the murder case.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Haryana, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 08:07 IST
Himani Narwal Murder: CCTV Footage Shows Accused Carrying Her Body In Suitcase | Video

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 21:58 IST

The video showed the accused casually walking with the suitcase through a street near the woman's house.

Accused Sachin was seen dragging suitcase containing Himani Narwal's body (Image: PTI)

Himani Narwal Murder: Days after the murder of Haryana Congress worker Himani Narwal, a CCTV footage has surfaced online in which the murder accused, Sachin can be seen allegedly carrying a black suitcase through a street, which allegedly contained the victims body.

Read More: Himani Narwal Murder Accused Was In Relationship With Her, Travelled In Auto With Body In Suitcase

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The CCTV footage is reportedly from February 28 at around 10 pm and was captured from near Himanis residence, where she was killed, police said.

The footage which has been shared by news agency PTI, showed the accused casually walking with the suitcase through a street near the womans house. The CCTV visuals have been verified by the police.

VIDEO | Himani Narwal murder case: CCTV footage  dated February 28, 2025  shows accused Sachin carrying the black suitcase with the body stuffed in it, through a street. The CCTV visuals have been verified by the police.Sachin  a friend" of Congress worker Himani Narwal - pic.twitter.com/f9qvKFR5rz  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

Himani Narwal Murder Case

Narwal, a Congress worker, was found dead in Rohtak on Saturday (March 1). A passer-by found the suitcase near the Sampla bus stand on the Rohtak-Delhi highway one day before the scheduled municipal elections.

Earlier today, Haryana Police arrested an accused in connection with the murder. It later confirmed that the arrested accused, identified as Sachin, had killed the Congress leader. The police said the accused killed her with a mobile phone charging cord, stuffed the body into the suitcase and dumped it.

Police have also recovered Himanis mobile phone and jewellery from the accused. During the interrogation, Sachin told the police that Himani was murdered at her residence.

Read More: Haryana Congress Worker Murder: Accused Arrested, Police Hint At Involvement Of More People

According to the police, Sachin is married and has two kids. He was in relationship with the victim for a year and a half. On February 27, at around 9 pm, the accused came to the house of the victim and remained there all night, said the police. They added that Sachin and Himani had a spat on February 28 after he tied her up with a cloth. He used the wire of a mobile charger to strangle her to death.

The police also found blood stains on the blanket, which was disposed off along with the body. The police is still verifying what was the reason for the brawl. Prima facie, it appears to the police that they had an argument regarding some money transfer.

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The accused is a resident of Bahadurgarh. He said that he was being blackmailed by Himani and had paid her money as well.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More

Location : Rohtak, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 21:47 IST
Himani Narwal Murder Accused Was In Relationship With Her, Travelled In Auto With Body In Suitcase

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 19:14 IST

Himani Narwal Murder: Haryana police confirmed Congress worker Himani Narwal was murdered by Sachin, who strangled her with a mobile charger wire and stuffed her body in a suitcase.

22-year-old Himani Narwal (left) with Rahul Gandhi during the Bharat Jodo Yatra. (Photo: X/BVSrinivas)

Himani Narwal Murder: In a press conference on Monday, Haryana police confirmed that Congress worker Himani Narwal, whose dead body was found stuffed in a suitcase, was killed by a man, identified as Sachin.

According to the police, Sachin is married and has two kids. He was in relationship with the victim for a year and a half.

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On February 27, at around 9 pm, the accused came to the house of the victim and remained there all night, said the police. They added that Sachin and Himani had a spat on February 28 after he tied her up with a cloth. He used the wire of a mobile charger to strangle her to death.

Himani used to stay alone at her residence in Rohtak. The accused used to frequently visit her and also stay there. On February 27, he stayed with Himani at her residence. On February 28, he had a heated altercation with Himani over some monetary dispute after which he strangulated her to death. The accused tied her hands with her stole and then used the mobile charger wire to strangulate her," ADGP KK Rao said.

After killing her, the accused stuffed her in a suitcase that belonged to the victim.

As per the police officials, the accused then took out the jewellery that the victim was wearing.

After 10 pm, he took an auto to Rohtak bus stand then took a bus to Sampla where he eventually disposed of the body, said the police.

The police also found blood stains on the blanket, which was disposed off along with the body. The police is still verifying what was the reason for the brawl. Prima facie, it appears to the police that they had an argument regarding some money transfer.

Victims Mother Denies Relationship

Narwals mother Savita said, My daughter did not have close friendships with anyoneI want the administration to tell me why my daughter was killed. Money cannot be the reason. If he (accused) can kill her, then how can he be her friend? The main reason should be told to us. I am not satisfied with the police action. I want him (accused) to get the death penaltyIf the accused is not given the death penalty, then I will commit suicide and the Haryana government and administration will be responsible for this."

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The arrest was made after her body was found stuffed in a suitcase in Haryana on March 1. A passer-by found the suitcase near the Sampla bus stand on the Rohtak-Delhi highway one day before the scheduled municipal elections.

Narwal was living in Vijay Nagar, Rohtak. The police said that her body had some injury marks when it was found. The family of Narwal said that they would not cremate her till the police arrest the killers.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Haryana, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 15:24 IST
'I Smoke Ganja, Many Sadhus Do So': Viral IIT Baba Booked Under Narcotics Law, Let Off On Bail

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 16:51 IST

The 'IIT Baba' was booked for alleged possession of ganja but was granted bail in the case. He confessed that he consumes cannabis.

IIT Baba booked for Ganja possession (File Photo)

Abhay Singh, who rose to prominence as IIT Baba during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, on Monday refuted the reports of his detention due to the recovery of ganja (marijuana) from his possession in Jaipur and said that he was granted bail immediately.

Earlier, reports surfaced that he was detained after ganja was found in his possession.

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There are three-four fake news: one is of suicide, second is of my detention. The only truth is that bail was granted then and there. Since the case (possession of substance was small)," he told reporters.

VIDEO | There are three-four fake news: one is of suicide, second is of my detention. The only truth in it is that bail was granted then and there since the case (possession of substance was small)" says Abhay Singh, alias IIT Baba. pic.twitter.com/jTlNYTjOeu Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

Police Recover Cannabis From IIT Baba

The Jaipur Police issued a statement, stating that they received information about a suicide incident at Hotel Park Prime in the city, after which they rushed to the place. They found a packet of cannabis with Abhay Singh, weighing around 1.50 grams. A case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act was registered against the viral Baba.

The IIT Baba confessed to consuming cannabis but was released on bail as it was within the permissible limit, the police said.

Speaking to News18 India, IIT Baba said, I smoke cannabis, but Im not the only one  many sadhus consume it. If the police consider it a crime, so be it".

He further said that a lot of fake news was being spread about him, which is why he visited Jaipur to set up his own channel.

IIT Baba Claimed Assault Recently

Recently, the IIT Baba alleged that he was assaulted in a news debate show of a private news channel in Noida on Friday.

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He complained to the police that he was beaten with sticks by some saffron-clad people who entered the newsroom.

He also sat outside the police outpost in Sector 126, however, withdrew the protest later after the police convinced him.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 16:43 IST
Kerala Lottery Results LIVE: Win Win W-811 Winners For March 3, 2025 Soon; First Prize Rs 75 Lakh!

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 09:00 IST

Kerala Lottery Result Guessing Numbers: Check the Live Updates and full list of winning numbers for Win Win W-811 lucky draw for Monday, March 3, 2025 here from 3 pm.

Kerala Lottery Win Win W-811 Results: The first prize winner of Win Win W-811 will get Rs 75 lakh. (Image: Shutterstock)

KERALA LOTTERY WIN WIN W-811 RESULT ON MONDAY, 3.3.2025, LIVE UPDATES: The Kerala State Lottery Department will announce the results of the Win-Win W-811 lucky draw on Monday, March 3 at 3 PM. The first place winner will receive a monetary reward of Rs 75 lakh, while the second and third place winners will receive Rs 5 lakh and Rs 1 lakh, respectively. Check the Live Updates and Full List of Winning Numbers here from 3 pm.

KERALA LOTTERY WIN WIN W-811 GUESSING NUMBERS

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3857 3875 3587 3578

3785 3758 8357 8375

8537 8573 8735 8753

5387 5378 5837 5873

5738 5783 7385 7358

7835 7853 7538 7583

WIN WIN W- 811 LOTTERY: PRIZE STRUCTURE

1st Prize: Rs 75 Lakh

2nd Prize: Rs. 5 Lakh

3rd Prize: Rs. 1 Lakh

4th Prize: Rs. 5,000

5th Prize: Rs. 2,000

6th Prize: Rs. 1,000

7th Prize: Rs. 500

8th Prize: Rs. 100

Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000

FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR WIN WIN W-811

WINNING NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE OF RS 75 LAKH IS: Result at 3 pm

WINNING NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE OF RS 5 LAKH IS: To be announced

WINNING NUMBER FOR 3RD PRIZE OF RS 1 LAKH ARE: To be announced

WINNING NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE OF RS 8,000 ARE: To be announced

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE OF RS 5,000 ARE: To be announced

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE OF RS 2,000 ARE: To be announced

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE OF RS 1,000 ARE: To be announced

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE OF RS 500 ARE: To be announced

WINNING NUMBERS FOR 8TH PRIZE OF RS 100 ARE: To be announced

HOW TO CHECK THE WIN-WIN W-811 RESULTS?

The Win-Win W-811 lottery results will be available on the official Kerala Lottery Department website, keralalottery.info. You can also go ahead and visit the Kerala Government Gazette office to verify the results personally.

HOW TO CLAIM YOUR PRIZE MONEY?

Check Your Ticket: Compare your ticket number with the results published in the Kerala Government Gazette. Confirm Your Win: If the number on your ticket corresponds to a winning number, you will be eligible to receive the prize. Claim Within 30 Days: Following the announcement, winners have 30 days to pick up their prize. Visit the Lottery Office: Visit the main office of the Kerala Lottery Department, Gorky Bhavan, to claim your win. Present the necessary paperwork: Show your winning ticket and a valid photo ID for verification.

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO CLAIM PRIZE MONEY?

A two-sided photocopy of the winning ticket that has been self-certified.

The signature of a gazetted officer on passport-sized photos.

A valid copy of the persons PAN card.

Complete the online prize claim form and attach a revenue stamp before submission.

Legitimate documents, such as ration cards, voter IDs, Aadhaar cards, or PAN cards.

HOW TO DOWNLOAD A PDF WITH A FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS?

Go to the Kerala Lottery Departments official websites, keralalotteries.info or keralalotteryresult.net.

Click the appropriate link to view the Win-Win W-811 lottery results.

The winning numbers for the draw will be displayed on the results page.

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Visit the website to view the outcomes.

To view and analyse the lottery results in PDF format, click the following link.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Thiruvananthapuram [Trivandrum], India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:00 IST
Kerala Man Shot Dead While Entering Israel Illegally, Had Asked Wife To Pray For Him In Last Call

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 13:58 IST

Thomas Gabriel Perera and his relative Edison were trying to cross the Jordan border in the Karak district illegally when they were shot

Thomas Gabriel Perera and his relative Edison were shot at Jordan border in the Karak district.

An Indian man, identified as Thomas Gabriel Perera, was allegedly killed by Jordanian soldiers when he attempted to cross the border and enter Israel illegally.

Perera lived in Thumba, Kerala and had arrived in Jordan on a visitor visa. He was shot dead on February 10.

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On Sunday, the Indian Embassy in Jordan said that it had been informed about the sad demise of an Indian national in unfortunate circumstances."

The Embassy is in touch with the family of the deceased and is working closely with Jordanian authorities for transportation of mortal remains of the deceased," the Embassy posted on X.

The Embassy has learnt of the sad demise of an Indian national in unfortunate circumstances. The Embassy is in touch with the family of the deceased and is working closely with Jordanian authorities for transportation of mortal remains of the deceased. @MEAIndia India in Jordan (@IndiainJordan) March 2, 2025

47-year-old Perera made an attempt to enter Israel illegally after reaching Jordan on a visitor visa.

Along with Perera, his relative Edison had also tried to cross the border. He was also shot, but he survived and was repatriated to India after receiving medical aid. Edison was a resident of Menamkulam.

The family members of Gabriel said that they were informed about his death by the Indian Embassy in Jordan.

They said that they were aware of his Jordan trip but did not have any idea that he had tried to cross illegally into Israel.

Speaking to ANI, the wife of Periera said, Last time I received a call, he only spoke to me for 2 minutes. He just asked me to pray for him."

According to a local panchayat representative, Gabriel used to drive an autorickshaw before going to Jordan.

In the email sent to his family by the embassy, the authorities said that Edison and Gabriel had attempted to cross illegally the Jordan border in the Karak district.

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The security forces tried to stop them but they did not listen to the warning, the guards opened fire on them. One bullet hit Thomas in his head and he passed away at the spot. Later his body was sent to the local hospital. Officials of the embassy will be visiting the hospital to verify the identity of Thomas where the mortal remains are kept," said the email.

The family has requested the Indian authorities to help them bring back home the remains of Gabriel.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Jordan

First Published: March 03, 2025, 11:42 IST
Want To Go On Lion Safari At Gir Like PM Modi? A Step-By-Step Guide On How You Can Plan The Trip This Summer

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 12:46 IST

PM Narendra Modi in a post on X wrote: "I urge you all to come and visit Gir in the future." From price to booking process, here's how can you can enjoy the lion safari at Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat

PM Modi at the lion safari in Gir. (X/Narendra Modi)

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday embarked on a lion safari at Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat to mark World Wildlife Day, he urged people to visit too.

In a post on X, the PM wrote: Here are some more glimpses from Gir. I urge you all to come and visit Gir in the future."

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Here are some more glimpses from Gir. I urge you all to come and visit Gir in the future. pic.twitter.com/IKIFI9hcgI Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

ABOUT GIR NATIONAL PARK

The Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Sasan Gir, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and forest situated in Talala Gir, Gujarat.

Renowned for being the exclusive habitat of the majestic Asiatic lions, Gir National Park is the sole location in Asia where these regal creatures roam freely in their natural surroundings. The 2020 census estimated the population at around 674 lions.

Beyond the allure of the iconic lions, Sasan Gir is a treasure trove of biodiversity, showcasing a rich tapestry of flora and fauna endemic to the Indian subcontinent. The park is home to an array of wild flora and fauna species, creating a captivating haven for nature enthusiasts. Among the diverse inhabitants are 41 mammal species, 47 reptile species, and an impressive collection of over 300 resident and migratory bird species. This intricate web of life provides visitors with serene and fascinating encounters in the expansive forest landscapes.

Whether witnessing the regal lions in their natural habitat or immersing oneself in the diverse ecosystems, a safari in Sasan Gir promises an unforgettable and truly enriching experience.

Lions and lionesses in Gir! Tried my hand at some photography this morning. pic.twitter.com/TKBMKCGA7m Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

THE BOOKING PROCESS

The process of online jeep safari booking (here) is supervised by the Gir forest officials, strictly adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by Indias forest department. In full compliance with the provisions and norms outlined by government authorities, 100% of the total safari permits for the Gir Jungle Trail are made accessible through online platforms.

THE PRICE

The Gir National Park website has listed the pricing for the jeep:

Four-seater: Rs 5,200

Six-seater: Rs 6,200

Eight-seater: Rs 7,200

TIMINGS

Here are the timings for March 1 to June 15:

6am to 9am

9am to 12 noon

4pm to 7pm

Here are some more glimpses from Gir. I urge you all to come and visit Gir in the future. pic.twitter.com/IKIFI9hcgI Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

THE BOOKING PROCEDURE

For advance safari booking requests, heres the procedure:

Select the convenient date from the calendar provided. Select the Gir Jungle Trial or Devaliya Safari Park. Mention the total number of adults and children that will be in the group during the safari. [From age 3-12 years are considered children] Select the time slot. Provide any one of the travelers name. Provide the active email ID and phone number. Proceed with the Book Now icon. Provide the names, gender and Aadhar ID to proceed with the booking process. Complete the process by making payment, thereby securing the time slot for the Jeep Safari.

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POINTS TO NOTE

There are 13 designated safari routes in the Gir National Park.

A single safari rides is of three hours.

Safari booking for the Gir Jungle trail remains suspended from June 16 till October 15 every year due to weather condition.

Secure the jeep safari permit well in advance. Once the permit is successfully obtained, visitors can proceed directly to the reception center on the designated date and time.

It is advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled time mentioned in the permit to facilitate a smooth check-in process and timely commencement of the safari adventure.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 12:30 IST
UP Man Dies By Suicide, Accuses CISF Officer Girlfriend Of Concealing Her Marriage In Video

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 04, 2025, 09:02 IST

Before taking the extreme step, Singh had uploaded a 20-minute-long video on Instagram blaming the woman of misleading him.

Before taking the extreme step, the man uploaded a 20-minute video on Instagram blaming the woman for misleading him. (Representative)

Mangaluru Suicide: In a tragic incident, a 40-year-old man died, allegedly by suicide, after uploading a video accusing a CISF woman officer, with whom he was in a relationship, of exploitation and concealing her marriage in Karnatakas Mangaluru.

The deceased, identified as Abhishek Singh, who was a native of Uttar Pradeshs Ghazipur, was found hanging in a lodge in Mangaluru. Singh, who worked for a private company in Chennai, had come to Mangaluru with colleagues to attend an exhibition.

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Read More: TCS Employee Dies By Suicide, Blames Wifes Affair In Last Video: Please Think, Talk About Men

Before taking the extreme step, Singh had uploaded a 20-minute-long video on Instagram blaming the woman for misleading him. According to media reports, Singh had alleged that she hid her marital status and entered into a relationship with him. He further accused the CISF officer of sexually exploiting him and subjecting him to mental harassment.

The police said that the woman officer serves as an assistant commandant in the CISF.

In the video, the victim further alleged that the woman took advantage of him and extracted gold worth Rs 8 lakh from him. He had also mentioned that she had similar relationships with multiple people.

Singhs brother launched a complaint against the CISF officer in which he alleged that the man was devastated upon learning the truth about the woman, reported India Today.

As per the complaint filed by his brother, Abhishek Singh was in a relationship with Monika Sihag. On March 1, at around 11.30 am, Abhishek informed his brother that Monika had refused to marry him, revealing that she was already married and had a child," police said in a statement.

Karnataka Police registered a case for abetment of suicide under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and launched an investigation.

The incident came after a TCS employee working in Mumbai died by suicide at his home in Agra after allegedly being harassed by his wife.

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Before taking this extreme step, Sharma recorded an emotional video lasting nearly seven minutes, which his family later discovered on his phone. In the video, he can be seen crying and pleading with people to think and talk about men" as he blamed his wife for his extreme step. He also apologised to his parents for his decision.

This news piece may be triggering. If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832-2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More

Location : Mangalore, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 23:30 IST
China's NEV industry shakeout: growing pains and breakthroughs

15:38, March 03, 2025 By Lin Lin ( People's Daily

The abrupt collapse of electric vehicle maker Jiyue, hot on the heels of HiPhi's decline, has ignited fresh scrutiny over the sustainability of China's new energy automotive ambitions. Two urgent questions emerge: Do these failures signal systemic fragility? And what trajectory awaits the world's most prolific NEV market?

In fact, such corporate casualties reflect an inevitable maturation phasethe Darwinian "growing pains" inherent to any disruptive sector. China's NEV landscape embodies a paradox of vibrancy and volatility.

New energy vehicles are manufactured in an intelligent workshop of Chinese new energy vehicle maker Leapmotor in Jinhua, east China's Zhejiang province. (People's Daily Online/Jin Sicheng)

The dynamism is undeniable. An unrivaled proliferation of models, relentless technological innovation, colossal manufacturing heft, and competitive pricing edge have cemented China's global NEV dominance. Driving this momentum is a tech-savvy demographic wave: post-90s and Gen-Z consumers now dictate market trends through digital-native purchasing behaviors.

Yet the sector remains brutally competitive. Breakneck expansion has compressed profit margins to precarious levels, with even market leaders reportedly earning 8,000 yuan ($1,094) per vehicle. This cutthroat environment claims weaker players while pushing survivors toward relentless optimization.

The tremors extend beyond automakers. Traditional combustion-engine manufacturers face existential pressures as EV adoption accelerates, while petrol stations confront obsolescence amid charging infrastructure proliferation. Such collateral impacts underscore a fundamental truth: China's NEV revolution isn't merely evolvingit's actively reshaping industrial ecosystems through creative destruction.

Yet adversity holds no veto over ambition. History attests that China's industrial ascendancy has been galvanised not by smooth passage but by frictioneach obstacle a whetstone for innovation.

Technicians check a charging pole in an expressway service station in Yangzhou, east China's Jiangsu province. (People's Daily Online/Ren Fei)

Decades ago, its automotive progress demanded trading market access for foreign technology. Today, the NEV sector charts an autonomous course, leading the global market. Parallels abound: the solar industry, once shackled by overseas monopolies over raw materials, equipment and distribution channels, now commands over 80 percent of worldwide photovoltaic module production. Similarly, China's once-struggling shipbuilding sector has led globally across three core benchmarks for 15 consecutive years. These trajectories share a DNAtransformative growth forged through pressure.

Contemporary battles mirror this pattern. The NEV and solar sectors now navigate dual fronts: cutthroat domestic competition and geopolitical headwinds abroad. Shipbuilders, encircled by established maritime powers, are confronted with technical bottlenecks one after another. Crucially, each conquered challenge begets not complacency but capacity for the next triala self-reinforcing cycle where industries evolve through perpetual problem-solving. This iterative momentum, far from signalling crisis, builds economic muscle memory: resilience honed in the furnace of competition ultimately propels sustainable advancement.

Market dynamics obey an iron law of natural selection. As weaker contenders retreat, resilient innovators surge ahead. BYD, the venerable automaker, seized the global NEV sales crown in 2024; upstart Xiaomi defied expectations by hitting annual production benchmarks; SAIC Motor now operates across more than 100 markets. These new vanguards thrive not through imitation but through audacious R&D investments and disruptive product differentiation.

In Heihe, Heilongjiang province, a frigid-weather testing hub thrives as a bellwether: 70 percent of this year's trial vehicles are new energy ones. The ripple effects extend beyond automakers, galvanizing regional industrial chains and economic revitalization.

New energy vehicles are assembled in a workshop of Chinese carmaker Chery in Wuhu, east China's Anhui province. (People's Daily Online/Xiao Benxiang)

Notably, coverage by EV Pulse, a U.S.-based outlet, revealed an undercurrent at Las Vegas' CES: during test rides in Chinese NEVs, a correspondent recorded "catching up with" China as a recurring refrain among auto executives, engineers, and analystsa phrase uttered with startling frequency.

Industrial maturation mirrors human growth. Parents of rapidly sprouting teenagers know the vexation of outgrown garmentstoday's perfect fit becomes tomorrow's constraint.

Nations, too, grapple with such growing pains. China's hypercompressed industrializationspanning centuries elsewhere into mere decadesinevitably generates friction. From reform to comprehensive reform to further deepening reform comprehensively, the nation recalibrates policies like a tailor adjusting seams. By synchronizing new industrialization with digital transformation, urbanization, and agricultural modernization, China seeks to clothe its roaring economic engine in strategies that fitnot stifleits ambitions.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
News18 Evening Digest: Congress Leader's 'Fat' Remark On Rohit Sharma Draws Criticism & Other Top Stories

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 19:52 IST

We are also covering car attack in Germany again, Supreme Court's observations in Ranveer Allahbadia case, Samajwadi Party MLA's praise for Aurangzeb, and other top stories.

Congress leader sparks row with "fat" remark on Rohit Sharma (PTI Photo)

In todays evening digest, News18 brings the latest updates on Congress leader sparks row with fat" remark on Rohit Sharma, Supreme Courts sharp remarks in Ranveer Allahbadia case, and other top stories.

Captain Doesnt Contribute: TMC MP Backs Shama Mohameds Rohit Sharma Remark, She Doubles Down

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Amid widespread criticism over her controversial comments against Team Indias captain Rohit Sharma, Shama Mohamed has found support from Trinamool Congress MP Sougata Roy. Read more

Youngsters May Think Were Outdated: SC In Ranveer Allahbadia Hearing | Top Quotes

The Supreme Court on Monday made some strong observations while allowing podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia to air The Ranveer Show". Read more

1 Killed As Car Rams Into Crowd In Germanys Mannheim; Govt Issues Extreme Danger Warning

One person was killed while several others were injured after a car drove into a crowd in the western German city of Mannheim, the local police said on Monday. Read more

Aurangzeb Not Cruel: Abu Azmi Under Fire For Praising Mughal Ruler, Shinde Reminds Him Of Sambhajis Torture

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Maharashtra MLA Abu Azmi on Monday stirred a controversy after praising Mughal ruler Aurangzeb as a great administrator. Read more

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Rishabh Pant Nominated For Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award

Rishabh Pants comeback from a life-threatening car crash to return to India colours has been recognised as the star wicketkeeper-batter has been nominated for the Laureus World Comeback of the Year Award. Read more

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 19:52 IST
PM Modi Announces Asiatic Lion Census This May At National Wildlife Board Meeting In Gujarat

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 13:41 IST

After completing his lion safari at Gir National Park in the morning, PM Modi headed for the meeting, at Sasan in Gujarats Junagadh district.

PM Modi's visit to a safari in Gir, Gujarat | Image/X

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the seventh meeting of the National Board for Wildlife, held on World Wildlife Day, and announced that the Asiatic lion population estimation would take place in May this year.

After completing his lion safari at Gir National Park in the morning, PM Modi headed for the meeting, at Sasan in Gujarats Junagadh district. It was also attended by Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav and other members.

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During the event, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for the National Referral Centre-Wildlife at Junagadh and announced the 16th Asiatic lion population estimation to be carried out in May this year.

Significantly, the Asiatic lion population reached 674 in the 2020 census, marking a 29 per cent increase from the 523 recorded in the 2015 census.

PM Modi also announced the setting up of a Centre of Excellence for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management, SACON, at Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, and unveiled a book on river dolphins.

The NBWL, a statutory body that advises the government on wildlife conservation, has 47 members, including the Chief of Army Staff, members from different states, representatives from NGOs working in this field, chief wildlife wardens and secretaries from various states.

The prime minister is the ex-officio chairperson of the NBWL, and the Union environment, forests and climate change minister is the boards vice-chairperson.

After the safari, Modi in a post on X said the population of Asiatic lions has seen a steady rise due to collective efforts, and commended the contribution of tribals and women living in surrounding areas in preserving the Asiatic lion habitat.

"This morning, on #WorldWildlifeDay, I went on a Safari in Gir, which, as we all know, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. Coming to Gir also brings back many memories of the work we collectively did when I was serving as Gujarat CM," he said.

"Over the last decade, the population of tigers, leopards, rhinos have risen too, indicating how deeply we cherish wildlife and are working to build sustainable habitats for animals," the PM said in another tweet.

This morning, on #WorldWildlifeDay, I went on a Safari in Gir, which, as we all know, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. Coming to Gir also brings back many memories of the work we collectively did when I was serving as Gujarat CM. In the last many years, collective efforts pic.twitter.com/S8XMmn2zN7 Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

The central government has approved more than Rs 2,900 crore for Project Lion, meant for the conservation of Asiatic lions for which Gujarat is the only abode, according to a government release.

Currently, the Asiatic lions inhabit nearly 30,000 square kilometres across 53 talukas in 9 districts of Gujarat, it said.

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Additionally, as part of a national project, a National Referral Centre for Wildlife is being established on over 20.24 hectares of land at New Pipalya in Junagadh district, it said.

(With agency inputs)

Location : Gujarat, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 13:39 IST
Promised In 2024, Govt's Cervical Cancer Vaccine Drive Delayed Till October This Year. Here's Why

Written By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 10:20 IST

News18 spoke to three senior officials in the Union health ministry who indicated that the campaign is awaiting the availability of stock of vaccines

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women in India and the second most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age. (PTI)

A year has passed since the announcement but there has been no progress. In fact, in the latest budget announcements, the government reiterated its plans to run a campaign along with announcing several other measures against cancer, including the launch of day-care cancer centres and relieving taxes and duties on certain cancer drugs.

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Then why is the planned campaign still in a limbo? News18 spoke to three senior officials in the Union health ministry who indicated that the campaign is awaiting the availability of stock of vaccines. The campaign can only take off once the Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII), the manufacturer of the HPV vaccine, gives its go-ahead. The governments campaign plan requires over 10 crore vaccine doses for the next six years to immunise girls aged 9-14 years," said an officer privy to the development.

The officer indicated that the government may be able to kickstart the inoculation drive by September-October this year. We may be ready to launch the campaign in the next six to seven months."

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women in India and the second most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.

According to the Indian Academy of Paediatrics, nearly all cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). There are 120 different types of HPV, more than 30 of which can infect the genitals. About five per cent of women in the general population are estimated to carry cervical HPV-16/18 infection at a given time, and 83.2 per cent of invasive cervical cancers are attributed to HPVs 16 or 18.

In A Covid-Like Situation

The officials told News18 that while the government is very keen" to launch the campaign, they are facing the problem of supply of vaccine doses.

Our requirement is huge as we need crores of doses every year and no drug maker in the world can fulfil our requirement. We are in a Covid-19-like situation where we need our own vaccine to support the vaccination campaign. Hence, we only have to wait for SII," said the second official.

According to the strategy proposed by the team of officials, each cohort comprising girls from 9 to 14 years consists of 1.25 crore young girls. From 9 to 14, there are six groups (cohorts) and requirements for straight six years. Also, the current HPV vaccine is a two-shot vaccine, hence, doubling the requirement for each group.

Our requirement for the first year is around three crore doses followed by 3.50 crore for the second year and 3.75 crore doses for the third year. From the fourth year onwards, demand will come down to 1.25 crore doses for every subsequent year," the second source said.

News18 reached out to SII in an email with queries related to the Union governments huge demand and when the company is likely to supply the vaccines. The email did not fetch any response. However, a company insider told News18 that the firm is working on upgrading its manufacturing capacities.

Trial Underway

While SII is upgrading its manufacturing capacities on one hand, on the other, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is running a clinical trial to assess the efficacy of one dose of the HPV vaccine.

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The trial weighs antibody response following one dose of SIIs Cervavac as compared to one dose of MSD Pharmaceuticals Gardasil vaccine in healthy girls aged 9-14 years. The trial has been running at four locations  Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and two in Maharashtra.

The trial started in December and will run for two years. We can check the efficacy results from the one-year data and roll out a campaign using one dose of the vaccine instead of the current requirement of two doses. If one dose proves efficacious, this will cut our requirement to half," explained a second government official.

About the Author Himani Chandna Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India's COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly pass... Read More Himani Chandna, Associate Editor at CNN News18, specialises in healthcare and pharmaceuticals. With firsthand insights into India's COVID-19 battle, she brings a seasoned perspective. She is particularly pass... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 10:20 IST
SC Extends Interim Protection For Ranveer Allahbadia, Lifts Ban On Airing Shows

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 17:06 IST

Ranveer Allahbadia Row: The Supreme Court rapped the YouTuber for making crass jokes on Samay Raina's show, saying using vulgar jokes was not talent.

Ranveer Allahbadia is facing severe backlash for his recent comments on India's Got Latent. (Photo: Instagram)

Ranveer Allahbadia Row: In a major development, the Supreme Court on Monday lifted a ban on podcaster Ranveer Allahbadia from airing his online shows following an undertaking that his shows would maintain standards of decency and morality. This came amid controversy over vulgar language used by Allahbadia on Samay Rainas Indias Got Latent show.

In its February 18 ruling, the Supreme Court imposed a condition on Allahbadia to not air any shows for his interim protection from arrest in the FIRs registered by the Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Assam Police over his obscene remarks.

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However, a bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh lifted the ban on The Ranveer Show on the basis that Allahabadia was employing 280 persons and that he was solely dependent on YouTube videos/podcasts for his livelihood.

Allahbadias counsel Abhinav Chandrachud submitted to the court that Allahbadia would not utter any word of profanity. The bench also expressed its intention to lift the restrictions on airing shows, particularly considering the fact that the livelihoods of over 200 families are at stake.

Allahbadia, aka BeerBiceps Guy, is facing police inquiries in multiple states, including Maharashtra and Assam, while also being summoned by the National Commission for Women and is likely to face a Parliament panel. He landed in trouble after asking a contestant, Would you rather watch your parents have sex for the rest of your life, or would you join in once and stop it forever?" on Rainas show.

The podcaster moved the Supreme Court against the FIRs lodged over his alleged distasteful comments, seeking the clubbing of all FIRs filed in different states, including Assam and Mumbai.

ALSO READ | Using Filthy Language Is Not Talent: Supreme Court Slams Ranveer Allahbadia Over Crass Jokes

SC Raps Allahbadia, Calls For Regulatory Measures

However, the Supreme Court once again criticised Allahbadias remarks on Indias Got Latent, saying that the usage of vulgar language for audience engagement is not talent.

Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta agreed with the court, saying the perversity" of the remarks was on another level". Mehta also alleged that Allahabadia had not complied with the condition that he should cooperate with the Assam Police investigation.

Attempting to strike a balance between moral standards and freedom of expression, the Supreme Court urged the Centre to come up with some regulatory measures that must have some element of control without resorting to censorship.

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With regard to telecast or airing of programmes which are not acceptable in terms of known moral standards of our society, some regulatory measures may be required. We have requested SG to suggest some measures which are effective to ensure the parameters of fundamental rights as delineated in Article 19. Any draft regulatory measure in this regard can then be put in the public domain to invite suggestions from stakeholdersWe are inclined to expand the scope of these proceedings," said the bench.

Allahbadia, widely known as The BeerBiceps Guy, stoked a massive controversy last month with an inappropriate comment made during his appearance on Indias Got Latent, when he asked a contestant, Would you rather watch your parents have sex every day for the rest of your life, or join in once and stop it forever?"

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 14:45 IST
Renowned Nephrologist Dr George P Abraham Found Dead In Kerala Home, Suicide Note Recovered

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 12:38 IST

A report states that the suicide note found at the scene mentioned old age and health issues as reasons for the drastic step

Dr George P. Abraham, a renowned figure in kidney transplantation, had performed approximately 25,000 kidney transplants. (News18 Malayalam)

Renowned nephrologist Dr George P. Abraham was found dead at his farmhouse in Thuruthissery, Kerala, on Sunday night. He was a senior surgeon in the kidney disease department at Lake Shore Hospital, Ernakulam.

According to reports, he was with his brother and another person at the farmhouse until Sunday evening. Later, his brother and the other person returned at night. Dr Abraham was subsequently found hanging later that night. According to a report by Manorama, a suicide note found at the scene cited old age and health issues as reasons for the extreme step.

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The body has been moved to Angamaly Little Flower Hospital. Manorama reported that his funeral will be held at 1 pm on Monday at St George Jacobite Syrian Church, Cheruthottukunnel, near Infopark Phase-2.

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Dr George P. Abraham, a renowned figure in kidney transplantation, had performed approximately 25,000 kidney transplants. Originally from Brahmapuram, Dr Abraham resided at Kooliyatt House in Elamkulam.

If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata)

Location : Kerala, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 12:38 IST
SC Grants Custody Of Son With Mental Illness To American Mother, Travel To US

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 22:10 IST

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a persons movement and muscle coordination and is caused by damage to the brain that happens during development.

The Supreme Court of India. (File Image/PTI)

The Supreme Court on Monday granted custody of a man suffering from mental illness to his mother, a US national, observing it was in his interest as he was incapable of making independent decisions.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta and Ujjan Bhuyan considered the fact that the 22-year-old mans mental age was of a child of eight to 10 years and directed the father to not obstruct the mother-son duo from returning to the US.

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Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a persons movement and muscle coordination and is caused by damage to the brain that happens during development.

The court heard the plea of the mother, Sharmila Velamur, against a Madras High Court order which observed the father did not not illegally detain the son in Chennai.

Velamur claimed after her divorce, even as the proceedings for mediation and guardianship of the son were pending in Idaho, the father left the US for Chennai with the son and remained untraceable.

The Madras High Court had interacted with the son, posed multiple questions to him, and based on the answers, determined that he was not illegally detained.

The apex court said the son was directed to undergo medical assessment at NIMHANS, Bengaluru, and an experts reports showed he functioned at the level of an eight to 10 year child and was unable to make informed decisions by himself.

His extent of overall disability, resulting from Mild Intellectual Developmental Disorder and Cerebral Palsy falls under the category of severe disability with 80 per cent," the court said referring to the reports.

The SC further observed, "Independent decisions made beyond sons cognitive capacity may not be well-informed or thoroughly considered." An evaluation committee, the court said, constituted by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare corroborated the experts opinions that the son did not possess the capacity to make well-informed, independent decisions on the complex subject matter of the country for his long-term residence.

The apex court said the high court decision was was simply based on a few minutes of oral interaction with (son)".

"We are constrained to hold that the high courts decision was passed in haste, without fully delving into the nuances of the matter," the SC said.

If the high court had any doubt as to the reliability of the report and its conclusions, it should have ordered an enquiry through a reputable medical institution, it added.

Dismissing all aspects of scientific assessment in a highly specialised and niche area of medicine was misconceived and ill-founded," the bench said.

It came on record the son completed most of his schooling in the US, where he also had access to long-term specialised welfare services and curricula and an Idaho court had appointed Velamur as his permanent guardian.

We cannot state that (son) has given up his roots in the US and has developed new roots in India, due to which he should not be displaced," the bench said.

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The order went on ,"We believe it is in the sons best interests and welfare to return to the US, where he can complete his schooling and reside with his younger brother, under the appellants (mothers) guardianship." The SC directed Velamur to return to the US with the son within 15 days.

The father was ordered not to cause "any impediment" to their return.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 22:10 IST
Sunrise, Photography & Lions: Here's How PM Modi Marked World Wildlife Day At Gujarat's Gir National Park

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 18:19 IST

From clicking pictures to enjoying the sunrise and taking pictures of the lion cubs, PM Modi is seen making the most of his visit

PM Narendra Modi enjoyed a lion safari at Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat on Monday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday embarked on a lion safari at Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat to mark World Wildlife Day. From clicking pictures to enjoying the sunrise and taking pictures of the lion cubs, PM Modi was seen making the most of his visit.

ALSO READ | Lion Safari At Gir Like PM Modi? A Step-By-Step Guide On How You Can Plan The Trip This Summer

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#WATCH PM Narendra Modi visits Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat pic.twitter.com/0GYTmfItcE ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

The Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Sasan Gir, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and forest situated in Talala Gir, Gujarat.

This sanctuary serves as the only known habitat of the Asiatic lion, making it a critical area for preservation efforts.

Here are some more glimpses from Gir. I urge you all to come and visit Gir in the future. pic.twitter.com/IKIFI9hcgI Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

The 2020 census estimated the population at around 674 lions. This increase was attributed to effective conservation strategies, improved habitat conditions, and community involvement, according to the park website.

Earlier in the morning, PM Modi posted a special video with a message on X: India is a country where protecting nature is a part of culture. It has many achievements in wildlife conservation. Across the world, people are wondering how India is seeing a rise in population in its tiger ranges, when other countries are seeing the reverse. The answer lies in Indias tradition, heritage and society which insists on biodiversity. That is the secret."

We do not see ecology and economy at conflict. We insist on coexistence. Wildlife conservation is a universal issue, so international alliance is the need of the hour. Humanity can have a better future only when our environment is safe," he is heard saying.

Modi is on a three-day visit to Gujarat.

Today, on #WorldWildlifeDay, lets reiterate our commitment to protect and preserve the incredible biodiversity of our planet. Every species plays a vital rolelets safeguard their future for generations to come!We also take pride in Indias contributions towards preserving pic.twitter.com/qtZdJlXskA  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 3, 2025

Every year, World Wildlife Day is celebrated on March 3 to spread awareness about the importance of flora and fauna. Wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining natures balance by providing clean air, food and a healthy environment. This day encourages people to support conservation efforts, adopt sustainable practices and coexist peacefully with nature.

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Schools, communities and organisations come together to spread awareness and take action. By protecting our wildlife, we can ensure a better future for the planet and future generations.

The theme of World Wildlife Day 2025 is Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet. It focuses on finding better ways to fund wildlife conservation while ensuring a sustainable future for both nature and communities.

About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 11:46 IST
Supreme Court Raps Samay Raina: These Young, Oversmart Ones Think

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 17:45 IST

Samay Raina had addressed the controversy surrounding his YouTube show 'India's Got Latent' during his Canada tour. The Supreme Court has come down heavily on him.

Supreme Court slams Samay Raina (Photo: Instagram)

The Supreme Court on Monday came down heavily on comedian Samay Raina for speaking out about the ongoing controversy over his YouTube show Indias Got Latent, and said that the young generation thinks it is oversmart" and they know more".

The top courts remarks came while hearing a petition by YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, whose watch your parents have sex" remark on Samay Rainas show sparked massive outrage across the country.

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There are some people who are writing articles on free speech etc. We know how to handle them also. Every fundamental right is followed by duty. There are restrictions also," Justice Surya Kant said.

The judge noted that there was a commentary made on the case by one of the accused abroad.

One of them went to Canada and spoke about all of this .. These young and over smart ones think they know more," Justice Kant said, Bar and Bench reported.

He made a reference to Samay Raina who made comments on the case in Canada.

Adding to the courts remarks, Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta said, Yes, he went abroad and made fun of this proceeding".

Possibly, they do not know the jurisdiction which this court enjoys," the Bench further said, warning the YouTubers to behave".

Behave, or else we know how to deal with you," Justice Kant said.

Raina, who was on the Canada tour last month for Samay Raina Unfiltered, addressed the controversy around his show and said to the crowd, Thanks for paying my lawyers fees".

Allahbadia stoked a massive row last month with his remarks on parental sex on Rainas show, leading to multiple police complaints and cases against him.

The panelists who participated in the show, including host Raina, Ashish Chanchalani, Jaspreet Singh, and Apoorva Mukjija, were all booked.

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Raina had earlier issued a statement confirming that he had deleted all videos of the show from his YouTube channel. Meanwhile, Allahbadia also apologised in a self-made video, admitting that his remarks were inappropriate". However, the Supreme Court had earlier barred Allahbadia from producing any further episodes.

In a significant development today, the top court granted Allahbadia permission to resume his podcast, The Ranveer Show, emphasising the need to strike a balance between morality and freedom of expression.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 17:38 IST
Ariana Grandes Heel Gown, Adam Sandlers Casual Look: Iconic Oscar Fashion Moments

Written By :

News18.com Edited By: Snigdha Oreya



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 12:39 IST

Oscars 2025: Heres a look at celebrities who wrapped up the red carpet in style.

Ariana Grande and Adam Sandler at the 97th Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.

Its not every day that you get to witness iconic fashion moments that will go down in history. At the 97th Academy Awards red carpet, celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Demi Moore, Halle Berry and many more made a statement in well-fitted classic silhouettes, while there were a couple of icons such as actor Adam Sandler who chose to keep it super casual.

If Selena Gomezs custom Ralph Lauren gown celebrated the intricacies of couture craftsmanship, then Halle Berrys custom Christian Siriano sequin gown resonated with the designers creative aesthetic. Every red carpet look made a statement and stood out from the rest.

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Closer to home, Indian fashion designers Manish Malhotra and Sabyasachi Mukherjee made their presence felt on the red carpet. While Manish designed a custom contemporary sari ensemble for producer Guneet Monga Kapoor, actor Goldie Hawn celebrated Sabyasachi High Jewellery with her custom Dolce & Gabbana gown.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Up Next (@upnextdesigner)

While the red carpet saw an array of gowns embellished to perfection, some iconic styles ruled the Oscars 2024 stage. For instance, Ariana Grandes custom Schiaparelli ruby red strapless gown featured a high-heeled sandal on the back of the dress. Avant-garde or should we say Ariana-garde!?

The highlight of this years 97th Academy Awards style has to be the varied fit and fabulous gowns created for Halle Berry, Demi Moore, Selena Gomez, Emma Stone, Ariana Grande, Doja Cat, Bruna Marquezine and Mikey Madison, among others.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Christian Siriano (@csiriano)

Christian Siriano had been wanting to dress Halle Berry for the Oscars his entire career. And when the magical moment arrived, he put her in a captivating sequin gown. Reflecting her charming personality, the strapless gown looked like mirrors pieced together. Halle definitely stole the show in this number.

Oscar award winner Mikey Madison looked stunning in a pink and black custom Dior gown. The haute couture gown Mikey adorned is inspired by Bal a Paris 1956 Spring/Summer by Christian Dior.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jamie Mizrahi (@sweetbabyjamie)

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Stylist Erin Walsh styled Mindy Kaling in a silver fern embroidered gown from Oscar de la Renta and Selena Gomez in Ralph Lauren. Both the divas made a dazzling and sparkling statement on the red carpet.

Every ensemble, every accessory and every detail on the silhouettes highlighted the great craftsmanship of the designers. The Oscars 2025 Vanity Fair after-party saw stars including Selena Gomez, Hailey Bieber, Blackpinks Lisa, Olivia Rodrigo and Kendall Jenner cast a spell in spectacular black evening gowns.

About the Author Akshata Shetty Completing almost two decades in journalism, Akshata Shetty's journey from print to online journalism is a celebration of fashion, art and music. Akshatas fashion stories are about the people who celebrate the... Read More Completing almost two decades in journalism, Akshata Shetty's journey from print to online journalism is a celebration of fashion, art and music. Akshatas fashion stories are about the people who celebrate the... Read More

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 12:39 IST
Hunter Schafer Makes A Daring Statement In A Plunging Neckline Silk Dress At Oscars Party

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:58 IST

Hunter Schafer opted for a stunning gold-hued silk dress for her appearance at the Vanity Fair Oscars Party. The dress with a daring plunging neckline.

The actor paired the silk dress with an oversized white and black fur coat.

At the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California, on March 2, celebrities gathered under one roof for the annual Vanity Fair Oscar Party. The party kicked off after the awards were over, and celebrities put their best foot forward when it came to fashion on the red carpet. Among the celebrities who graced the event with their presence was Hunter Schafer, and she rocked the red carpet with a silk dress that she had paired with an oversized fur coat.

Hunter Schafer made a stunning statement on the red carpet when she arrived in style in a gold-hued silk gown. The silk gown came with a daring plunging neckline. She balanced this daring silhouette with an oversized fur coat and left the fashion police talking with her impeccable sense of style.

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Take a look at Hunters outfit of the evening here.

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The Cuckoo actress opted for a beautiful gold coloured silk dress which cascaded on her toned physique. The silk dress came with a classic straight-fit silhouette. The plunging neckline of the dress ended at Hunters torso. She paired this dress with an oversized white and black fur coat. She ditched the accessories and opted for a pair of classic black open-toe heels, which complemented her outfit well.

For the glam, Hunter kept the makeup minimal, and that helped her dress do all the talking. She went with a dewy base, which let her skin breathe. She added a little drama to her eyes and did a classic black smokey eye. She used shades of black and brown on her eyelids to make them pop. She finished it off with mascara on her eyelashes and eyeliner. She went with a glossy nude shade on her lips and left her auburn hair open. She styled them in loose waves and completed her look for the party.

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 15:58 IST
Oscars 2025: Ariana Grande Stuns In Schiaparelli, Says, Favourite Dress In The World

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 08:11 IST

Oscars 2025: Wicked actor Ariana Grande adorned a custom Schiaparelli by Daniel Roseberry haute couture dress.

Ariana Grande attended the 97th Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.

The 97th Academy Awards 2025: Wicked actor Ariana Grande celebrated haute couture on the Oscars red carpet with elan. Dressed in not one but two custom Schiaparelli by Daniel Roseberry statement gowns, the Best Supporting Actress nominee stole the show with grace on the red carpet and on stage.

For her red carpet moment, Ariana, who was styled by celebrity fashion stylist Mimi Cuttrell, looked like a modern-day princess in a pastel pink bustier gown crafted in satin and tulle detailing . The exaggerated hipline and the dramatic tulle together beautifully matched Ariana timeless elegance. The ensemble is from Schiaparellis haute couture spring/summer 2025 collection, Icarus Couture.

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Speaking about her Oscars 2025 red carpet look, Ariana Grande says, So, honoured to be wearing it.It is my favourite dress in the world and I am so grateful that I got to spend this moment wearing this [the dress]."

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mimi Cuttrell (@mimicuttrell)

According to Daniel, the silhouettes you see in his spring/summer 2025 collection nod to a wide range of references  obsession  from the past century plus: the snaky, curvy forms from the 1920s and 1930s (what he calls liquid deco) here finds shape in fragile silk georgette embroidered with Japanese bugle beads, which is then mounted onto French corset toile molded into shockingly sharp hip blades.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mimi Cuttrell (@mimicuttrell)

Ariana paired the creatively shaped sparkling dress with jewellery from DeBeers jewellery.

Matching her beautiful voice, Ariana opened the 97th Academy Awards ceremony in another custom Schiaparelli gown. The strapless jewel tone shimmery silhouette was enhanced with tulle. Arianas custom look was further accentuated with stunning jewellery pieces from Swarovski.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ???????????????????? ???????????????????????????? (@majorversace)

The perfect transition from pastel to a jewel colour palette celebrated Arianas style quotient but also added opulence to her Oscars 2025 look.

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Exuding timeless opulence on the red carpet and on stage, Ariana was joined on stage by her Wicked co-star Cynthia Erivo, who looked magical in a Vivienne Westwood Spring/Summer 1997 gown.

The 97th Academy Awards red carpet kicked off on a high fashion note with celebrities gracing the red carpet in stunning gowns. Spotted on the iconic red carpet were Demi Moore, Lisa, Gal Gadot, Zoe Saldana, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Emma Stone, Meg Ryan, Penelope Cruz, Michelle Yeoh, Timothee Chalamet, Mindy Kaling, Andrew Garfield, Robert Downey Jr and Scarlett Johansson, among others.

About the Author Akshata Shetty Completing almost two decades in journalism, Akshata Shetty's journey from print to online journalism is a celebration of fashion, art and music. Akshatas fashion stories are about the people who celebrate the... Read More Completing almost two decades in journalism, Akshata Shetty's journey from print to online journalism is a celebration of fashion, art and music. Akshatas fashion stories are about the people who celebrate the... Read More

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First Published: March 03, 2025, 08:11 IST
Oscars 2025: Zoe Saldana Continues Her Love For Saint Laurent Gowns On The Red Carpet

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 08:21 IST

The 2025 Academy Award winner Zoe Saldana looked stunning in a tiered gown with a sheer bustier.

Zoe Saldana won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Emilia Perez at the 97th Academy Awards.

Zoe Saldana won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Emilia Perez at the 97th Academy Awards.

Accepting the prestigious award wearing a custom Saint Laurent gown, Zoe Saldana celebrated her roots and shared an emotional moment on stage. Zoe marked this historic moment by dedicating her first Oscar award to her grandmother. My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents with dreams and dignity and hardworking hands. And I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award and I know I will not be the last," expressed Zoe Saldana.

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Zoes Oscar 2025 red carpet look featured a tiered strapless gown. The jewel maroon satin bubble tiered silhouette was enhanced with a semi-sheer bustier with sparkling detailings.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Petra Flannery (@petraflannery)

For those who dont know, Emilia Perez is co-produced by the French luxury fashion house Saint Laurent and has seen Zoe on various occasions celebrate and acknowledge the brand in her fashion choices. Her Oscar red carpet look also featured a pair of sheer arm-length black gloves. She completed her look with a Cartier necklace. Zoe was styled by celebrity fashion stylist Petra Flannery.

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Zoes charming personality won hearts on and off the red carpet. While this ensemble wasnt as elaborate as her previous red carpet looks, we love how she owned the look on the red carpet. Keeping the makeup minimal yet timeless, her glam was upped by makeup artist Vera Steimberg. Zoes hairstylist Mara Roszak took to instagram to share a heartfelt message for her. This woman is so deserving-hardworking, talented, kind, generous and so full of love. Its an honour to celebrate her and her talent tonight," shared Mara Roszak.

The 97th Academy Awards red carpet kicked off on a high fashion note with celebrities gracing the red carpet in stunning gowns. Spotted on the iconic red carpet were Demi Moore, Lisa, Gal Gadot, Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Emma Stone, Meg Ryan, Penelope Cruz, Michelle Yeoh, Timothee Chalamet, Mindy Kaling, Andrew Garfield, Robert Downey Jr, Elle Fanning, Lupita Nyongo and Scarlett Johansson, among others.

About the Author Akshata Shetty Completing almost two decades in journalism, Akshata Shetty's journey from print to online journalism is a celebration of fashion, art and music. Akshatas fashion stories are about the people who celebrate the... Read More Completing almost two decades in journalism, Akshata Shetty's journey from print to online journalism is a celebration of fashion, art and music. Akshatas fashion stories are about the people who celebrate the... Read More

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

First Published: March 03, 2025, 08:21 IST
World Wildlife Day 2025: Theme, History, Significance And What PM Modi Said About Wildlife Conservation

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 07:00 IST

World Wildlife Day 2025: Over one million wildlife species are at risk of extinction due to growing environmental challenges.

World Wildlife Day 2025: This day was established by the United Nations in 2013. (Image: Shutterstock)

World Wildlife Day 2025: Every year, World Wildlife Day is celebrated on March 3 to spread awareness about the importance of flora and fauna. Wildlife plays a vital role in maintaining natures balance by providing clean air, food and a healthy environment. This day encourages people to support conservation efforts, adopt sustainable practices and coexist peacefully with nature.

Schools, communities and organisations come together to spread awareness and take action. By protecting our wildlife, we can ensure a better future for the planet and future generations.

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World Wildlife Day 2025: Theme

The theme of World Wildlife Day 2025 is Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet." It focuses on finding better ways to fund wildlife conservation while ensuring a sustainable future for both nature and communities.

World Wildlife Day 2025: History

World Wildlife Day was established by the United Nations in 2013 after Thailand proposed to dedicate a day to raise awareness about wildlife conservation. On December 20, 2013, the UN General Assembly officially declared March 3 as World Wildlife Day with the first celebration taking place in 2014.

This date was chosen because, in 1973, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed on the same day. CITES is a global agreement to ensure that international wildlife trade does not threaten the survival of animal and plant species.

World Wildlife Day 2025: Significance

According to the United Nations, over one million wildlife species are at risk of extinction due to growing environmental challenges. World Wildlife Day is an important day that raises global awareness about the urgent need to protect wildlife and preserve biodiversity.

The day encourages action against habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade and exploitation. By promoting sustainable practices, it aims to protect ecosystems and ensure a balanced environment.

World Wildlife Day 2025: What Prime Minister Narendra Modi Said About Wildlife Conservation

This is a day to celebrate the incredible diversity of life on our planet and to reiterate our commitment towards protecting it."

Wildlife conservation is ingrained in our ethos and has always been an integral part of our tradition and culture. With a robust and wide network of protected areas our commitment towards wildlife protection is as strong as ever."

Every part of India is not only sensitive towards nature but is also committed to wildlife protection."

It is heartening to see many start-ups emerging in this field. Let us all encourage and appreciate the people dedicated to protecting nature."

Human empowerment is incomplete without a better environment. And so, the way ahead is in collectiveness instead of selectiveness. We need to take a broad-based and holistic look at environmental conservation."

We do not believe in conflict between ecology and economy, but give importance to co-existence between the two."

For wildlife to thrive, it is important for ecosystems to thrive. This has been happening in India."

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Protection of wildlife is a universal issue.International Big Cat Alliance is our endeavour for protection and conservation of the big cats. pic.twitter.com/dLS3TRQGd4  PMO India (@PMOIndia) April 9, 2023

Protection of wildlife is a universal issue."

fashion, travel, The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health food , and culture  with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:00 IST
Anu Maliks Daughter Ada Malik Makes RARE Appearance, Reminds Netizens Of BLACKPINKs Lisa | Watch

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 10:57 IST

Anu Malik arrived with his wife Anju Malik and their daughters Anmol and Ada Malik at Ashutosh Gowarikers son Konark Gowarikers wedding with Niyati Kanakia.

Anu Malik spotted with his wife Anju Malik and their daughters Anmol and Ada Malik

Ashutosh Gowarikers son Konark Gowariker tied the knot with Niyati Kanakia on Sunday, and the wedding reception was a star-studded affair with many Bollywood celebrities in attendance. Music composer Anu Malik was also seen arriving for the grand reception in Mumbai along with his wife Anju Malik and their daughters Anmol and Ada Malik. Anu Maliks younger daughter Ada Malik captured the attention of netizens, with many noting that she bears a striking resemblance to BLACKPINKs Lisa.

Paparazzo Viral Bhayani shared a video on Instagram which shows Anu Malik arriving at Konark Gowariker and Niyati Kanakias wedding reception with his family. Ada Malik was seen standing next to Anu Malik. She looked beautiful in a black and golden embellished kurta paired with a tulle black long skirt. Her sleek hair, the bangs across her forehead, and the bold, dramatic winged eyeliner, made her strikingly resemble K-Pop group BLACKPINKs Lisa, a resemblance that didnt go unnoticed by fans. Netizens couldnt help but draw comparisons. If you look quickly you will think it is Lisa from blackpink OMG," wrote one Netizen, while another one commented, Look nd makeup is same like her.." A third comment read, OMG looking like a Lisa from blackpink," while another netizen pointed out that she looks like a younger version of Lisa. Check out the video below!

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View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viral Bhayani (@viralbhayani)

Who Is Ada Malik?

Ada Malik is music composer Anu Malik and Anju Maliks younger daughter. She is a fashion designer, and has studied at the Parsons School Of Design in New York. She recently created an origami dress for Tanisha Mukerji, and the actress shared pictures of her look on Instagram. Feeling like an origami princess in this fabulous creation by my gorgeous Adaa Mallik!" she wrote.

Meanwhile, Anu Maliks elder daughter Anmol Malik is into music, just like his father. She is known by her pen name Audrey Piano.

This isnt the first time netizens pointed out that Ada Malik looks similar to Lisa. Her other Instagram posts feature comments from netizens pointing out the resemblance. i watched you in farah khans youtube a while ago, and i couldnt resist myself but tell you that youre so alike @lalalalisa_m," read one comment on Adas Instagram post from September, while another comment read, Lisa from black pink."

In other news, celebs such as Aamir Khan, Gayatri Oberoi, Sonali Bendre, Kiran Rao, Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh were spotted at Konark Gowarikers wedding with Niyati Kanakia. Several videos from the wedding have surfaced on social meida, and they show Ashutosh Gowariker dancing at his sons wedding.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 10:57 IST
Balasaheb Thackerays Grandson Aaishvary Thackeray To Make Bollywood Debut With Anurag Kashyaps Film

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 19:59 IST

Aaishvary Thackeray, grandson of the late Balasaheb Thackeray, is set to make his grand Bollywood debut under the direction of renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.

Balasaheb Thackerays grandson, Aaishvary Thackeray, is making his Bollywood debut with Anurag Kashyaps upcoming film.

Balasaheb Thackerays grandson, Aaishvary Thackeray, is gearing up for his much-anticipated Bollywood debut under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. Having started his cinematic journey as an assistant director on Sanjay Leela Bhansalis Bajirao Mastani in 2015, Aaishvary is now set to take center stage in an upcoming, yet-to-be-titled film.

Industry insiders are already abuzz with praise for his dedication. A source close to the project shared, Aaishvarys performance in Anurag Kashyaps film is nothing short of remarkable. His commitment to the craft, coupled with the depth he brings to his character, is sure to leave a lasting impact on audiences."

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Aaishvarys early exposure to filmmaking under Bhansalis mentorship provided him with invaluable insights into the industry. Over the years, he has further honed his skills in acting and dance, preparing himself for his grand entry into Bollywood. His association with Kashyap, known for his bold and unconventional storytelling, is expected to be a powerful stepping stone for his acting career.

Despite belonging to one of Maharashtras most influential political families, Aaishvary has maintained a relatively low public profile. As the grandson of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and the nephew of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, his Bollywood debut is bound to draw significant attention.

On the professional front, Anurag Kashyaps last directorial venture, Kennedy, garnered praise at the Cannes Film Festival but is yet to secure an official release date in India. While widely recognized for his directorial prowess, Kashyap has also been making waves as an actor, with notable performances in films like Leo, Maharaja, and Viduthalai Part 2.

Now, the acclaimed filmmaker-actor is set to take on a compelling role in the highly anticipated pan-India action drama Dacoit, starring Adivi Sesh. Following the buzz around Mrunal Thakurs casting as the films leading lady, the makers have now revealed another major additionAnurag Kashyap himself.

In Dacoit, Kashyap will portray a formidable inspector, a devout Ayyappa follower with an unyielding stance against corruption. His character, known for his sharp intellect, wit, and sarcasm, is expected to bring an intriguing layer to the films intense action-packed narrative. With its powerhouse cast and high-stakes storyline, Dacoit is shaping up to be a thrilling cinematic spectacle.

About the Author Yatamanyu Narain Yatamanyu Narain is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for all things entertainment. Whether he's breaking the latest Bollywood news or chatting with rising stars in the OTT world, hes always on the hun... Read More Yatamanyu Narain is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for all things entertainment. Whether he's breaking the latest Bollywood news or chatting with rising stars in the OTT world, hes always on the hun... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 19:59 IST
Oscars 2025: Guneet Monga Promises Comeback, Says We Will Return Again After Anujas Loss

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 22:00 IST

Though Anuja lost the Best Live Action Short Film award at the 97th Academy Awards to Im Not a Robot, producer Guneet Monga remains hopeful, vowing that "we will return again."

Oscars 2025: Anuja lost to Im Not a Robot, but producer Guneet Monga remains hopeful, saying, "We will return again."

The entire country celebrated when Anuja, an American Hindi-language short film, earned a nomination for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards. Though it ultimately lost to the Dutch film Im Not a Robot, producer Guneet Monga remains optimistic, promising that this is just the beginning of their Oscar journey.

A few hours ago, Bollywood producer Guneet Monga took to Instagram to share stunning snapshots from the prestigious event, where she proudly represented Anuja. In a heartfelt caption, she wrote, We attended the event with our short film Anuja, but this is just the beginning. As long as we continue to dream and create, we will return again soon!"

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Expressing her deep connection to the film, Monga described Anuja as a 22-minute love letter to girls who refuse to be defined by their circumstances." She highlighted its alignment with the mission of the Salaam Baalak Trust Delhi, where young lead actress Sajda Pathan resides.

The producer also took a moment to acknowledge the incredible team behind the film, including co-producer Mindy Kaling and executive producer Priyanka Chopra Jonas, who championed the story and played a crucial role in bringing it to life.

Beyond just filmmaking, Monga emphasized her commitment to amplifying the voices of young girls and independent storytellers. Skills, strength, and spiritthe girls have it all. All hail independent cinema! Independent storytellers hold the truth, and we must continue to champion them," she declared.

Wrapping up her message, she expressed gratitude to the Academy for giving Anuja a global platform. For those unfamiliar, Anuja is a poignant tale of a gifted nine-year-old girl and her sister, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of young girls from underprivileged backgrounds. Starring Sajda Pathan and Ananya Shanbhag, the film is now available for streaming on Netflix.

About the Author Yatamanyu Narain Yatamanyu Narain is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for all things entertainment. Whether he's breaking the latest Bollywood news or chatting with rising stars in the OTT world, hes always on the hun... Read More Yatamanyu Narain is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for all things entertainment. Whether he's breaking the latest Bollywood news or chatting with rising stars in the OTT world, hes always on the hun... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 22:00 IST
Oscars 2025: Wickeds Paul Tazewell Becomes First Black Man To Win Best Costume Design; Im So Proud Of This

Curated By :



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 07:29 IST

Paul Tazewell made history at the 97th Academy Awards as the first Black man to take home the trophy for Best Costume Design for his work on Wicked.

Paul Tazewell won the Oscar for the Best Costume Design at Oscars 2025.

Paul Tazewell, the costume designer behind the stunning wardrobe of Wicked, made history at the 97th Academy Awards. He won the Oscar for the Best Costume Design on Sunday, thereby becoming the first Black man to take home the trophy. In his acceptance speech, the 60-year-old designer acknowledged the historic achievement and said that he is so proud of it.

This is absolutely astounding. Thank you Academy for this very significant honour. Im the first Black man to receive the costume design award for my work on Wicked. Im so proud of this," he said, while accepting the prestigious award. He thanked everyone in the U.K, as well as his family. My Ozian muses, Cynthia (Erivo) and Ariana (Grande), I love you so much  all the other cast, thank you thank you thank you, for trusting me with bringing your characters to life. This is everything. Director Jon M. Chu and producer (Marc Platt), thank you," he further added.

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Paul Tazewell is the second Black person to win the Best Costume Design category. Ruth E. Carter made Oscar history when she won for her work on the 2018 film Black Panther, and then again for the 2022 film Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

While Paul Tazewell won the Best Costume Design award, other nominees in the category this year included Arianne Phillips (A Complete Unknown), Janty Yates and David Crossman (Gladiator II), Lisy Christl (Conclave) and Linda Muir (Nosferatu).

Before this, Tazewell already won the Critics Choice Awards, Costume Designers Guild Awards, British Academy Film Awards and the BAFTAs for his stellar work in the 2024 film Wicked, starring Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and others.

The 97th Academy Awards is currently underway at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. It is being hosted by the Emmy Award-winning comedian and television personality Conan OBrien.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:29 IST
Politics-Free Or Not? How Hollywood Addressed Ukraine, Gaza Crises On Oscars 2025 Red Carpet

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: March 04, 2025, 00:12 IST

Despite an astounding week of politics around the war in Ukraine, the Oscars ceremony had only one mention of the conflict, and only one speech concentrated on the situation in Gaza

(L-R) Israeli journalist and filmmaker Yuval Abraham, US producer Rachel Szor, Emirati filmmaker Hamdan Ballal, Palestinian journalist and filmmaker Basel Adra won Best Documentary Feature for 'No Other Land' at the 97th Annual Academy Awards on March 2. (Image: Frederic J Brown/AFP)

The Oscars 2025 broadcast was a relatively staid affair, with little of the political tub-thumping that has characterised previous editions. While in past years host Jimmy Kimmel has taken shots at President Donald Trump, first-timer Conan OBrien chose to ignore him.

Despite an astounding week of politics around the war in Ukraine, the ceremony had only one mention of the conflict, and only one speech concentrated on the situation in Gaza while a nominated actor chose to wear a Free Palestine badge on the red carpet.

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NO OTHER LAND WINS BEST DOCUMENTARY

It was more or less a politics-free evening until No Other Land won the documentary feature award. The film, made by Palestinians and Israelis, follows young Palestinian Basel Adra, recording the gradual destruction of his homeland, as Israeli soldiers demolish homes and evict those living there. The poignant story contrasts his struggles with the freedoms enjoyed by Jewish Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham.

Accepting the award, Abraham criticised the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people" and called for the immediate release of Israeli hostages still being held after the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas fighters.

He called for Israel and the Palestinians to walk a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people". And I have to say, as I am here, the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path," he said.

GUY PEARCE DONS FREE PALESTINE BADGE

According to reports, Australian actor Guy Pearce, who was nominated in the Best Supporting Actor (Male) category for the Holocaust-related film The Brutalist, walked the Oscars red carpet wearing a Free Palestine pin on his suit lapel.

He has been vocal about his support for Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict with Israel. Im always trying to raise awareness for Palestine because it needs as much support as possible," he was quoted by The Mirror.

New York Post reported another political moment, especially seen in the light of the Trump-Zelenskyy spat, when actress Daryl Hannah declared: Slava Ukraini!"  which means glory to Ukraine". She was presenting the Best Film Editing award.

(With agency inputs)

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Los Angeles, United States of America (USA)

First Published: March 03, 2025, 23:55 IST
Zoe Saldana Sobs Uncontrollably As She Wins 1st Oscar, Says 'I'm A Proud Child Of Immigrant Parents'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 07:46 IST

Zoe Saldana won her first Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Perez, capping off a stellar awards season with wins at the Golden Globes, BAFTAs, Critics Choice, and SAG Awards.

Zoe Saldana won her first Oscar.

After years of delivering powerhouse performances across genres, Zoe Saldana finally took home her first Academy Award, winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in Emilia Perez. The emotional victory capped off an already stellar awards season, with Saldanas portrayal earning widespread acclaim. As she took the stage to accept the golden statuette, she burst into tears.

Mami! Mami!" a tearful Saldana said. My mom is here. My whole family is here. I am floored by this honor. Thank you to the academy for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita and talking about powerful women. My fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered to me is a true gift, and I will pay it forward."

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Saldana was presented the award by last years Best Supporting Actress winner, DaVine Joy Randolph, in a moment filled with warmth and admiration. The two shared a heartfelt exchange as Randolph handed over the golden statuette.

Saldanas Oscar win was the crowning moment of an incredible awards season. Earlier this year, she picked up her first Golden Globe in January, followed by big wins at the BAFTAs, Critics Choice Awards, and SAG Awardsmaking this a well-earned and unforgettable journey to the Academy Awards stage.

My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents. With dreams and dignity and hard working hands," Saldana said. And I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award. And I know I will not be the last."

Saldana, widely considered a front-runner, was part of a group of first-time Oscar nominees in the category, including Monica Barbaro (A Complete Unknown), Ariana Grande (Wicked), and Isabella Rossellini (Conclave). The only past nominee in the lineup was Felicity Jones, who previously earned a nomination in 2015 for The Theory of Everything and returned this year for The Brutalist.

In Emilia Perez, Saldana portrayed Rita Castro, a struggling lawyer who gets an unexpected job offer from a powerful Mexican drug lordhelping him undergo gender-affirming surgery. That drug lord transitions into Emilia Perez, played by Karla Sofia Gascon, who made history as the first openly transgender actor to receive an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

The fact that I am getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish, my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted," Saldana noted.

Ive never been questioned about where I come from or judged by how I speak or what my pronouns are. I believe that everybody has the right to be who they are and Emilia Perez is about truth and is about love," she had said while accepting the award for best actress in a supporting role at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. I think that us as actors, now more than ever before, we really have to tell stories that are beautiful and thought-provoking and live within the spectrum of artistic freedom."

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:46 IST
'Aurangzeb Not Cruel': Abu Azmi Under Fire For Praising Mughal Ruler, Shinde Reminds Him Of Sambhaji's Torture

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 22:05 IST

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called Azmis statement as wrong and acceptable and said that he should be charged with treason.

SP leader Abu Azmi (File)

Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Maharashtra MLA Abu Azmi on Monday stirred a controversy after praising Mughal ruler Aurangzeb as a great administrator.

He claimed that all the wrong history is being shown" (in reference to Bollywood movie Chhaava- biopic of Chhatrapti Sambhaji Maharaj) and that Aurangzeb built many temples" and was not a cruel leader."

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During Aurangzebs time, Indias borders extended to Afghanistan and Burma. Our GDP at that time was 24 percent. India was called Sone ki Chidiya. Should I call all these things wrong?" Azmi said.

Mumbai: Maharashtra Samajwadi Party President Abu Azmi on Aurangzeb says, All the wrong history is being shown. Aurangzeb built many templesAurangzeb is not a cruel leader" pic.twitter.com/cfSr26ZE6o IANS (@ians_india) March 3, 2025

He further said that the battle between Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Aurangzeb was not religious but rather for power. The battle between Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and Aurangzeb was for power. If anyone says that this battle was for religion, I do not believe it," he said.

BJP and Shiv Sena legislators strongly condemned Azmis statement and demanded his apology.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called Azmis statement as wrong and acceptable" and said that he should be charged with treason.

Read More: How Did Aurangzeb, Who Brutally Killed Sambhaji Maharaj, Die? A Glimpse Into Past In Chhaava Light

His statement is wrong and should be condemned. Aurangzeb tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for 40 days; calling such a person good is the biggest sin, and hence, Abu Azmi should apologise. Our Chief Minister has taken this matter seriously. He should be charged with treason," Shinde said.

Shiv Sena MP Files Case Against Azmi

Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske filed a case against Azmi at Wagle Estate Police Station over his statement on Aurangzeb.

A sedition case should be filed against Abu Azmi. He has no right to stay in India. Aurangzeb who destroyed thousands of Hindu temples, tortured women, brutally tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, was against the country, he looted our countryour leader Eknath Shinde has demanded this morning itself that a sedition case should be filed against him. Today we have come here to file a sedition case against him" Mhaske said as quoted by ANI.

#WATCH | Thane, Maharashtra: Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske arrives at Wagle Estate Police Station to file a case against Maharashtra Samajwadi Party president Abu Asim Azmi over his statement on AurangzebMP Mhaske says, A sedition case should be filed against Abu Azmi. He has no pic.twitter.com/cW9qfaSf5l  ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

Who Was Aurangzeb?

The Mughal ruler has once again gained political attention after Vicky Kaushals period drama Chhaava shone a light on the valiant story of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj whose unwavering resilience inspired the Marathas in their fight against the Mughals.

Sambhaji Maharaj was tragically executed at the hands of Aurangzeb.

Aurangzeb was the sixth Mughal emperor, who reigned from 1658 until his death in 1707. Under his reign, the Mughal Empire reached its greatest extent- a territory spanning nearly the entirety of the Indian subcontinent.

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Aurangzeb came to the throne after imprisoning his father and having his older brother killed. He has been described as a tyrant by historians- an expansionist who imposed tough Sharia laws and ruled ruthlessly.

His critics argue that many of the Mughal rulers policies abandoned his predecessors legacy of pluralism and religious tolerance like introduction of the jizya tax, demolition of Hindu temples and the execution of Sambhaji Maharaj.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 16:45 IST
EC Must Accept Errors Within 24 Hours: TMC On Duplication Of Voter Card Numbers

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 17:16 IST

TMC Rajya Sabha Parliamentary Party Leader Derek OBrien said if the EC fails to do it, the party would release more documents related to the issue on Tuesday morning.

TMC leader Derek O'Brien (File)

The Trinamool Congress on Monday expressed dissatisfaction with the Election Commissions response on the duplication of voter card numbers, saying the poll panel must accept the error within 24 hours.

Addressing a press conference here, TMC Rajya Sabha Parliamentary Party Leader Derek OBrien said if the EC fails to do it, the party would release more documents related to the issue on Tuesday morning.

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OBrien, along with TMC Rajya Sabha deputy leader Sagarika Ghose and Lok Sabha MP Kirti Azad, displayed lists with details of voter ID cards with the same EPIC number.

"We want only residents of a state to vote in that state. Only voters of Bengal to vote in Bengal Voters will not be allowed to vote as their votes will be cast by people with identical EPIC numbers," OBrien said.

"These people will be sneaked in from other states to vote. This is unacceptable," he added.

Amid reports flagging issuance of identical voter card numbers to electors in two different states, the EC on Sunday said it would rectify the issue and also update its technology-driven platform.

The poll authority asserted that while the elector photo identity card (EPIC) numbers of some of the voters "may be identical", the other details, including demographic details, assembly constituency and polling booth, are different.

Terming it an "Epic Scam", OBrien alleged that the poll panel issued the statement after the TMC announced that it was going to hold a press conference on the issue.

"Limited appreciation of the EC. I say limited because EC is admitting the error but not accepting the error," he said.

"In the next 24 hours, we humbly ask the EC to also accept the error. If not, we will share a document at 9 am on Tuesday morning," he said.

The TMC leaders also demanded an in-depth investigation into the matter.

Ghose, meanwhile, said the revelations made by TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee have proven what so far were just allegations.

Showing an electoral list, she said, "The original voter ID card is from Bengal, and the same number is being used by another voter in another state. How can two people have the same EPIC number?" "This is a scam, a scandal and a criminal offence. There should be a time-bound inquiry, and the masterminds of this scam should be punished. We want to appeal to (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi to stop misusing government machinery for this kind of attack on democracy. We will not allow the BJP to demolish democracy in India".

Azad also sought a thorough investigation into the issue and said it raises serious concerns over the state of democracy.

"It needs to be probed who are the officials of the Election Commission involved in this. Our leader Mamata Banerjee has warned that she can sit on a hunger strike at the EC office in Delhi," he said.

The TMC leaders shared a list containing the details of 129 voter ID cards from West Bengal and Haryana that had the same EPIC number.

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According to a source, the issue will be raised in the upcoming Parliament session, and the TMC is also in touch with some other INDIA bloc parties that have raised concern over voters lists in their states.

The EC on Sunday said identical EPIC numbers or series were allotted to some electors from different states and Union territories due to a "decentralised and manual mechanism" being followed prior to shifting of the electoral roll database of all states to the ERONET (Electoral Roll Management) platform.

Location : Kolkata [Calcutta], India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 17:16 IST
Hindi 'Imposition' And Delimitation: The Politics Of Language And The Language Of Politics

Last Updated: March 04, 2025, 17:34 IST

As the tussle between the Centre and states like Tamil Nadu intensifies, will the north-south divide in Indian politics widen even more?

Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka fear that they will lose political power and heft, even though theyve managed to slow their population growth. File pic/PTI

First things first: will delimitation of seats in the Lok Sabha change Indias political landscape? Will it be a win for the north and a loss for the south? And are the southern parties playing politics by raising the bogey of Hindi imposition?

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To start off, lets deep-dive into the issue of delimitation.

Delimitation debate

Picture this: for the last half-century, the number of Lok Sabha seats has remained frozen, at 543. Yes, thats right  frozen since 1976. Now, some might say, Why mess with it?"

The reality is that Indias population has undergone a dramatic shift.

Northern states, like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, have seen their populations explode. Meanwhile, the southern states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, have made incredible strides in slowing down their population growth.

But heres the catch: in a country where population growth is so critical to democracy, the north and south are fighting over how seats in Parliament should be allocated. This is a delimitation battle like never before.

Here is what the Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin said while calling an all-party meeting on the issue on March 5.

We, in the south, have done our part. Weve controlled our population, focused on healthcare, and family planning. But now, the Centre is looking to reward states that havent been as successful. This isnt just unfairits a betrayal of our efforts. We wont let our voice be drowned out!" he said.

These are powerful words. And theyre not just coming from MK Stalin.

The entire southern bloc is feeling the heat. Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy has thrown his weight behind Stalin on the issue.

Tamil Nadus fear? If the delimitation exercise is based on population growth, its share of Lok Sabha seats overall will shrink  despite their economic contributions to the country. Right now, Tamil Nadu has 39 seats. But Bihar has 40, even though Tamil Nadus population growth has been slower.

Look at these numbers: Uttar Pradeshs population has grown by more than 16 crore since 1971, yet its seats havent changed. Bihar? 13 crore more people. But in the south, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka have all slowed their growth  theyre doing the hard work of family planning, but it seems like thats going to cost them politically.

In all this, it is important to respect the principle of one person, one vote. If seat distribution is kept unchanged across states as it has been over the last 50 years, it will only worsen the already skewed representation across Indias states.

For example, an MP in UP caters to nearly 3 million residents compared to less than 2 million in southern states. Is it fair to a person living in UP or Bihar to continue with the same arrangement that was there 50 years ago?

Also, labour from northern states has a big role in the economic development of southern states. The economic progression of the south has helped it lower population growth rates.

But heres the big question: should states that have been more responsible with their population be penalised for their success? KT Rama Rao from Telangana doesnt think so. Hes been vocal about this issue, calling for the delimitation to also consider a states economic contributionand not just the population. After all, the south contributes a huge chunk to Indias GDP, yet it feels like it is getting the short end of the stick in tax allocations and representation.

KTR says, We are nation-builders, contributing massively to Indias GDP. Yet, we are left underrepresented. This isnt just about population numbersits about fairness. Southern states should not be penalised for doing whats right for the nation."

Heres the twistsouthern states argue that delimitation should also account for how much each state contributes fiscally to the country. Southern states are home to Indias major economic hubs, like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kochi. But guess what? They pay more taxes than they get back. And in the national debate, they fear their voice will shrink as well.

Census slowdown

Now, the Centre is caught in a bind. The delimitation exercise was meant to happen after the next Census post 2026so after the 2031 Census.

But the 2021 Census has been delayed by five years. Why? Some say its deliberate, so the Centre can rush through the process in 2026 and give an advantage to the north. The argument goes that by delaying the Census, the Centre gets to base the delimitation on current population figures, which could hurt the south.

Amit Shah, the union home minister, has assured that there will be no pro-rata reduction for the southern states. He in fact has assured that all states will see an increase in their seats, and the southern states would get their rightful share in the increase too.

But his statements seem to have only created more confusion. Siddaramaiah, the CM of Karnataka, says that this only adds to the uncertainty for states like Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Kerala.

The Karnataka CM says, The Centres statements are ambiguous. If delimitation is going to be based on the latest population numbers, we will lose seats. If they stick to current seat allocation, it will still be unfair. We need clarity."

The new Lok Sabha chamber is set to house 888 MPs, but the real question is: who gets to fill those seats?

Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka fear that they will lose political power and heft, even though theyve managed to slow their population growth.

Southern states feel that an increase in seats for them would be moderate, while it would be astronomical for northern statesputting the BJP at an advantage as it has a wide base in the north. The Congress too has performed poorly in the north since the BJPs rise here under Narendra Modi.

All would depend on the formula that the Delimitation Commission, once set up, arrives at to determine the base average population. This is the number of people that every MP on average represents, and the idea is that the population in each constituency be tightly grouped around this average.

This could be tricky and the delimitation commission, which will have representation from all parties, has a tough task and could see political fireworks.

So, whats the solution? Can the government craft a delimitation strategy that balances the need for fair representation without penalising states for their demographic management?

And more importantly, can the Centre show statesmanship and finally end the delayed Census saga, which is linked not just to delimitation but also to womens reservation implementation?

Will the north-south divide in Indian politics widen even more? Or will this delimitation exercise be the moment that India finally gets fairer representation for all its citizens?

One thing is clear: southern states are not backing down, and northern states would want to correct what some say is a half-a-century-long anomaly. As this saga unfolds, its not just about populationits about justice and fair play in Indias democracy.

In plain language

Now, lets talk about the second theatre of the north-south WarHindi!

The language war in Tamil Nadu isnt just about wordsits about identity, pride, and a fierce 80-year-old resistance. This isnt some new conflict either. For Tamil Nadu, rejecting the imposition of Hindi is deeply rooted in the states DNA. Fast forward to today, and that same spirit is alive and well.

Enter the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Now, this policy doesnt flat-out demand Hindi be shoved down Tamil throatsit talks about imparting education in the mother tongue (which, in Tamil Nadus case, is obviously Tamil).

But, and heres the catch, the NEP also recommends a three-language formula. In theory, that means Tamil students might have to pick up Hindi as a third language, though the NEP nowhere says it. Cue the alarms in Tamil Nadu. They see this as the same old story: Hindi imposition in a shiny new package.

This isnt just about languageits politics with a capital P. On one side, youve got the BJP-led central government, which views Hindi as the unifier of India. For them, the three-language formula is essential for a national identity.

But in Tamil Nadu, its seen as an attack on their culture. K Annamalai, the BJPs state chief, calls Tamil Nadus two-language policy obsolete and wants to replace it with the NEP. Hes even kicked off a signature campaign to push the policy through. To him, its about modernising education and keeping up with the world.

But then, youve got the DMK-led state government, with chief minister MK Stalin at the helm, standing firm against what they view as a dangerous erosion of their cultural autonomy. Stalin warns of a language war" if the NEPs three-language policy is forced upon the state. For them, this isnt just about textbooks and classroomsits a battle to preserve the very fabric of Tamil identity.

And then, just to make things more tense, the central government drops a bombshell: no funds for Tamil Nadus education system under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyaan unless they comply with the NEP.

Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan calls it an imaginary fight" from Stalinaccusing him of using the language issue to cover up his states governance challenges. Its a classic tug-of-war: the state wants more freedom, and the Centre is using the financial carrot and stick to get its way.

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For many in the BJP, its about modernisation and creating a more cohesive India, while for Tamil Nadu, it feels like another battle to preserve what makes them unique.

What now? Well, the fight continues, and both sides are digging in. The central government wants its NEP implemented across the board, but Tamil Nadu isnt backing down. The stage is set for a fierce language warand its one thats about much more than just how we learn to speak.

About the Author Aman Sharma Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More Aman Sharma, Executive Editor - National Affairs at CNN-News18, and Bureau Chief at News18 in Delhi, has over two decades of experience in covering the wide spectrum of politics and the Prime Ministers Office.... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 08:00 IST
'Immediately Have Babies': MK Stalin's Fresh Appeal To Tamilians In The Face Of Delimitation

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 13:13 IST

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin warned people that the state's parliamentary representation may be reduced because of population-based delimitation

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin asked the newlyweds to plan babies immediately after marriage to counter delimitation. (Source: PTI)

In the wake of the Union governments delimitation plans, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday appealed the people of his state to immediately produce children while emphasising that the successful family planning measures of the citizens can now prove to be a disadvantage for the state.

Stalin warned people that Tamil Nadus political representation could be impacted by population-based delimitation and appealed them to keep their egos aside and listen to his call.

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I urge them to attend as well. Please set aside ego. Dont think why should you listen to my call," said Stalin, adding that this is a pressing issue for the state.

Speaking about the changing demographic scenario, Stalin said, Earlier we used to say, take your time and have a baby. But now the situation has changed, and we should say it now."

He said that the issue is concerning because delimitation is likely to be implemented on the basis of population census figures. We implemented family planning successfully, and now we are facing such a situation," Stalin said.

Re-emphasising his stance, the chief minister urged the newlyweds to have babies soon after their marriage so that the state could have a good political representation after the delimitation.

But now with schemes such as delimitation that the Union Government is planning to implement, we cannot say that. We focused on family planning, but we were pushed into a situation such as this. So I would now urge newlyweds to immediately have babies and give them good Tamil names.

Stalin has called for an all-party meeting on March 5 where the issue of delimitation would be discussed.

He has said that 40 political parties registered with the Election Commission will take part in the meeting to discuss the implications of constituency delimitation, which he has called a sword dangling over Tamil Nadu".

They are trying to implement delimitation which will reduce the number of Lok Sabha seats to Tamil Nadu. I have convened an all-party meeting on March 5 to discuss our stand on delimitation. Forty registered with the Election Commission have been invited. A majority of them have said yes, a few are skipping it. But they should understand that this is not a problem of DMK, it is a problem for the entire state. So I urge everyone again to stand together for the welfare of this state and its rights," Stalin said.

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On February 25, Stalin said that the successful implementation of family planning policies in Tamil Nadu has pushed the state into a position of disadvantage.

If delimitation is implemented based on population census, Tamil Nadu will lose eight MPs. This will lead to Tamil Nadu losing representation in Parliament," the chief minister stated.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 13:07 IST
Must Be Taught A Lesson: Congress MLA Accuses Rashmika Mandanna Of Insulting Kannada, BJP Hits Back

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 20:30 IST

The Karnataka legislator said that the actor allegedly refused to attend the Kannada film festival despite being invited multiple times to the event

Rashmika Mandanna is facing Internet's wrath.

Karnataka Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga on Monday accused actor Rashmika Mandanna of insulting and disregarding" Kannada language over her alleged refusal to attend the Bengaluru International Film Festival.

Ganiga said that Mandanna should be taught a lesson for disregarding the industry where she started her film career.

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The Karnataka legislator said that the actor allegedly refused to attend the Kannada film festival despite being invited multiple times to the event, saying didnt have time to visit Karnataka.

Rashmika Mandanna, who started her career with the Kannada movie Kirik Party in Karnataka, refused to attend the International Film Festival last year when we invited her. She said, I have my house in Hyderabad, I dont know where Karnataka is, and I dont have time. I cant come. One of our legislator friends visited her house 10-12 times to invite her, but she refused and even disregarded Kannada, despite growing up in the industry here. Shouldnt we teach them a lesson?" he said as quoted by news agency ANI.

Bengaluru | Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga says, Rashmika Mandanna, who started her career with the Kannada movie Kirik Party in Karnataka, refused to attend the International Film Festival last year when we invited her. She said, I have my house in Hyderabad, I dont know pic.twitter.com/uftmWfrMZ6 ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

According to Ganiga, Mandanna allegedly ignored Karnataka and the Kannada language, despite her beginnings in the Kannada film industry. She made her cinema debut with the 2016 Kannada film Kirik Party.

BJP Reacts

The BJP soon condemned Ganigas comments calling them unconstitutional. Former union minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar dubbed the Karnataka MLA as pompous overblown Karnataka MLA", and said every citizen, including actresses, have rights.

You can never separate goon from Rahul Congressman. This pompous overblown #Karnataka MLA from constitution waving @RahulGandhis party, wants to teach a lesson to an actress. I want to tell @DKShivakumar and @siddaramaiah to read up constitution  every citizen including actress hv rights and dont forget ur goon MPA has obligations to respect law and rights of citizens If he wants a lesson in constitution, I/we will be happy to teach this goon  free of charge  anytime, anyplace Call me! #KnowTheTruth #TruthAboutCorruptCong," he said in a post on X.

You can never separate goon from Rahul Congressman.This pompous overblown #Karnataka MLA from constitution waving @RahulGandhi s party, wants to teach a lesson" to an actress. I want to tell @DKShivakumar and @siddaramaiah to read up constitution  every citizen including https://t.co/RV27NtFWqL  Rajeev Chandrasekhar  (@RajeevRC_X) March 3, 2025

Backlash Over Rashmikas Comments

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Mandannas recent remark about being from Hyderabad at an event has stirred controversy, drawing objections from several pro-Kannada groups. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike President T A Narayan Gowda also weighed in on the matter, issuing a warning to Rashmika. Certain pro-Kannada organisations accused her of disrespecting the Kannada film industry, despite beginning her career in Kannada film industry.

A clip of Mandanna during Chhaava promotion stating she is from Hyderabad instead of Karnataka had gone viral, sparking criticism online. Mandanna, who hails from Coorg, Karnataka, began her cinematic journey with Kannada films before gaining widespread recognition through Telugu cinema.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 19:21 IST
Rift In Karnataka Congress? Senior Party Leaders Pitch For DK Shivakumar As Chief Minister

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 07:51 IST

Shivakumar, who also serves as the Karnataka Congress President, is a prominent contender for the chief ministers role and has openly expressed his ambitions in the past

Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar with CM Siddaramaiah | File Image/PTI

Amid increasing speculation about internal discord within the Karnataka Congress, senior party leaders, including Veerappa Moily and Basavaraju Shivaganga, advocated for Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to be the states next Chief Minister.

While Moily expressed his hope to see Shivakumar assume the states top post, Shivaganga claimed that Karnataka Deputy CM would take over as Chief Minister by December.

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I am the one who secured the MLA ticket for DK Shivakumar for the first time. Today, he has become a successful leader in Karnataka. We all wish for him to become the Chief Minister soon," said Moily, the former Karnataka Chief Minister.

Moily further stressed that Shivakumars rise to the top is certain, brushing off any opposition as irrelevant.

He has provided strong leadership and prioritised strengthening the party. Some may criticise him for personal reasons, but that wont change anything. Becoming Chief Minister is not something that needs to be granted to him; he has earned it," Moily said.

Shivagangas Write It Down Claim

Shivaganga voiced strong support, saying that Shivakumar would serve as CM for the next 7.5 years from December, as the party is expected to win the next state elections as well."

Write it down, it will happen by December. I can also write and give it to you in blood if you want, that he (Shivakumar) will become CM by December. If he takes charge in December, he will run the administration, including the next five-year term too, so by and large, he will be CM for 7.5 years," Shivaganga was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

There has been growing speculation within Karnatakas political circles, especially in the ruling Congress, regarding a potential leadership change later this year under a rotational chief minister" or power-sharing" model.

Shivakumar, who also serves as the Karnataka Congress President, is a prominent contender for the chief ministers role and has openly expressed his ambitions.

Recently, a controversy erupted when the Congress leader shared the dais with spiritual leader Jaggi Vasudev, also known as Sadhguru and Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a Shivratri celebration on February 26.

The opposition BJP claimed that Shivakumar might quit Congress to form an alternative government with the help of their party.

However, Shivakumar dismissed all the speculations, saying that his decision to attend the event was purely religious and not political. He also slammed the BJP.

Let BJP keep its house in order first. As some of my ministers have said, several BJP MLAs are trying to get in touch with us. So, already my minister has said it. I dont want to discuss that. It (BJP) is a broken house. Congress is a united house," he told news agency ANI.

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About the Author Ronit Singh Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be... Read More Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be... Read More

Location : Karnataka, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:51 IST
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerbergs Hoodie, Featuring Facebooks 2010 Mission, Auctioned For Rs 13 Lakh

Curated By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:14 IST

Made in Vietnam by the brand Alternative, Mark Zuckerbergs Hoodie features a unique design with Facebooks 2010 mission on the interior.

The hoodie also includes three arrows in a circle, with words like graph, platform and stream, with the year 2010. (Photo Credits: X)

Mark Zuckerbergs minimalist style has evolved, but his past wardrobe choices are still making headlines. Recently, a black hoodie, which he once wore, was auctioned by Juliens Auctions for an impressive $15,875 (approximately Rs 13 Lakh). It originally had an estimated value of just $1,000 to $2,000 (approximately Rs 87,000 to Rs 1 Lakh) and attracted 22 bidders.

Made in Vietnam by the brand Alternative, the hoodie features a unique design with Facebooks 2010 mission on the inside, which states Making the world open and connected. The hoodie also includes three arrows in a circle, with words like graph, platform and stream, with the year 2010.

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The bidder also took home the handwritten note by Zuckerberg, which reads, One of my favorite old-school Facebook hoodies. I wore this all the time in the early days. It even has our original mission statement on the inside lining. Enjoy. Mark Zuckerberg."

As per the auction website, This hoodie was worn by Facebook co-founder, Mark Zuckerberg on numerous occasions during 2010, the same year that saw the release of the award-winning biographical drama The Social Network as well as the same year that Zuckerberg appeared on the cover of Time Magazine as Person of The Year.

The provenance of the hoodie is well-documented, with multiple articles published about how the consignor won it on Facebook Marketplace after it was posted there by Zuckerberg to commemorate the social media platforms 20th anniversary."

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Matt Thompson, a fan of Mark Zuckerberg, had won the hoodie during Facebooks 20th anniversary celebration. He told Business Insider that he had seen Zuckerberg putting the hoodie on Facebook Marketplace as part of the anniversary event. People were able to place bids without paying anything, so he decided to participate. He didnt think much about it, but months later, someone from the Metas team contacted him with the news that he actually won. When he received the package and saw it on his doorstep, he was in disbelief.

Zuckerbergs hoodie wasnt the only item that was sold at the auction. Last year, he also donated a gold plated chain to a charity auction hosted by his sister. The chain attracted a lot of interest and the highest bid reached $40,500 (approximately Rs 35 Lakh).

About the Author Buzz Staff A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on whats creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture. A team of writers at News18.com bring you stories on whats creating the buzz on the Internet while exploring science, cricket, tech, gender, Bollywood, and culture.

News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 15:14 IST
UP Bride Suddenly Gives Birth 2 Days After Wedding Night; Groom Cries Foul, Says Baby Not His

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 12:19 IST

The wedding was celebrated with great pomp on February 24, and the newlyweds spent two days together. However, on the second day, the bride suddenly went to the hospital and gave birth to a child

The in-laws erupted in anger, accusing the brides parents of hiding the pregnancy. (News18 Hindi)

Most married couples dream of starting a family. They plan their future, hoping to provide their child with the best possible life. But imagine the shock of a newlywed groom when his bride gave birth just two days after their wedding!

The sensational case from Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj District has left a family in turmoil. The wedding was celebrated with great pomp, and the newlyweds spent two days together. However, on the second day, the bride suddenly went to the hospital and gave birth to a child. While both mother and baby were safe, the family was left in tatters instead of celebration.

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On February 24, the young mans wedding procession arrived in Jasra village. The brides family welcomed the baraatis enthusiastically, and the wedding was conducted with grand celebrations. The bride and groom exchanged garlands, and the ceremony continued until late at night. The following day, February 25, the bride was sent off to her in-laws house.

As she arrived at her new home, the family rejoiced. Guests, neighbours, and relatives gathered to see the new bride, and the traditional Muh Dikhai ceremony took place throughout the day.

Sudden Turn Of Events

The next morning, on February 26, the bride woke up early and served tea to the family, maintaining the cheerful atmosphere. However, by evening, she suddenly started screaming in pain. She cried out, complaining of severe stomach pain. Alarmed, the family rushed her to Karchana CHC.

Upon examination, doctors revealed that she was pregnant and needed immediate delivery. The shocked in-laws were asked to sign medical consent forms. Within two hours, the bride gave birth to a child.

Family Uproar

The news sent shockwaves through the grooms family. The in-laws erupted in anger, accusing the brides parents of hiding the pregnancy. The grooms mother confronted the brides mother, demanding an explanation. In response, the brides parents claimed that the groom and the bride had been meeting before marriage.

The brides father explained that the marriage had been arranged in May last year, and since then, the couple had been in contact. However, the groom dismissed these claims as false and demanded an investigation. My marriage was fixed only four months ago, in October. I will not accept this girl now," he said.

The grooms father also refused to accept the bride into the family. While he stated they did not want the money spent on the wedding, he demanded the return of all gifts and possessions exchanged during the marriage. He warned that legal action would be taken if their belongings were not returned.

The Brides Family Responds

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Meanwhile, the brides mother accused the grooms family of taking dowry and abandoning her daughter. If they refuse to take my daughter back, we will take legal action. We will raise the child ourselves, but she is still taking the grooms name. If he does not accept her, she will die."

The escalating dispute led to a village panchayat (council meeting), where discussions were held. Ultimately, the bride returned to her maternal home with the child.

News18's viral page features trending stories, videos , and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!

Location : Prayagraj, India, India

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:59 IST
$30 Million Net Worth, 5 Yachts, 3 Jets: A Look At Comedian-Turned-President Zelenskyy's Assets

Curated By :

Translation Desk

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 18:23 IST

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a former comedian, has a net worth of $30 million. Despite his wealth, he wasn't listed among Ukraine's billionaires during the invasion

Forbes estimated Zelensky's net worth to be approximately $30 million in 2022. (AP File)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky entered the international spotlight following a contentious exchange with US President Donald Trump at the White House amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

After a mineral deal with the US fell through, Zelensky secured substantial support from the UK and other European countries. Known for his trademark military-style casual dress, Zelenskys path to the presidency is unusual, given his background as a comedian. His diverse career in acting, business, and stock market investments has reportedly brought him millionaire status.

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In 2022, at the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Forbes estimated Zelenskys net worth to be approximately $30 million (Rs 262.40 crore at present). Before assuming the presidency in 2019, Zelenskys wealth stemmed from his career as a film actor, producer, and comedian. He owned the production company Kvartal-95 Studio, in which he sold his majority stake upon becoming president.

According to a Forbes report, Zelensky owns a flat in Ukraines most expensive building, along with two additional apartments in Kyiv. Some media reports also suggest that he possesses five yachts and three private jets. Additionally, there are claims of investments in companies like Meta and Tesla, although Forbes states that the accuracy of this information remains unverified.

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Zelenskys wife, Olena Zelenska, reportedly holds a bank deposit of around $2 million and possesses government bonds. Her jewellery, cars, and other assets are estimated to be worth close to $1 million.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022, has had a devastating impact on the Ukrainian economy. The countrys billionaires have experienced substantial losses during this period. Forbes 36th annual billionaires list, compiled at the beginning of the conflict, indicated that only seven billionaires remained in Ukraine. Zelensky was notably absent from the list.

Location : Ukraine

First Published: March 03, 2025, 18:23 IST
Canadians Reject Khalistani Movement, 72% Support Strict Policies To Curb Separatist Groups

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Pragati Ratti



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 11:59 IST

A poll shows 72% of Canadians support stricter policies against separatist movements, especially targeting Khalistani separatists. Sikhs globally have also expressed distress over misrepresentation due to Khalistani extremists.

A majority, 54 per cent Canadians, believe their country should not be used as a platform for separatist movements. (Representational Image: PTI)

A recent poll reveals that Canadians overwhelmingly reject separatist movements within their borders. A total of 72 per cent respondents support stricter policies to curb such groups, particularly targeting Khalistani separatists. A majority, 54 per cent, believe their country should not be used as a platform for these movements. This strong stance reflects a broader sentiment among Canadians.

The poll, highlighted in an earlier CNN-News18 report, aligns with findings showing limited support for the Khalistani movement internationally, including in the US, UK, and Germany. The demand for action stems from a series of disturbing incidents between 2021 and 2025, including attacks on Hindu temples and incidents involving Indian consulates.

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Among the most concerning events were: multiple burglaries and vandalism at Hindu temples in the Greater Toronto Area in late 2021 and early 2022; the vandalising of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Windsor with anti-Hindu graffiti in April 2023; and the posting of Khalistani threats against Indian diplomats on two Surrey temples in September 2023. Tensions escalated further with clashes between pro-Khalistani supporters and temple attendees at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton during a consular event on November 3, 2024. This coincided with another attack on the Laxmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey that same day. Just over a week later, a planned consular event at the Triveni Mandir in Brampton was cancelled due to credible threats of violence from Khalistani groups.

Indian consulates in Toronto and Vancouver also faced heightened threats in 2023 following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, with posters targeting diplomats linked to groups like Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). In early November 2024, consular camps in Vancouver and Surrey experienced disruptions from anti-India elements.

Sikhs Upset with Khalistani Groups: Sources

The recent unrest has caused significant distress among Indian Sikhs globally. They feel the Khalistan issue is being blown out of proportion and fear their faith is being misrepresented. Many expressed concerns about attending Sikh places of worship, questioning whether they should bow before those promoting violence and terrorism.

Top intelligence sources reveal that Sikh groups are deeply concerned about the damage this radical fringe is inflicting upon their reputation for hospitality and charity. As minorities integrated into societies worldwide, they feel their positive contributions are being overshadowed by the actions of a few. They also lament a lack of true leadership, with those involved in harassment and abuse hijacking their communitys image.

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Sources said Sikhs around the world are increasingly being harassed or threatened for criticising the aggressive behaviour of Khalistani activists. A disturbing video circulating on social media shows a Sikh follower expressing fear for his childrens safety at places of worship. Others speak out about Hindus feeling unwelcome in their temples and the shame they feel at the disrespect shown towards their sacred symbols.

The rise of this extremist ideology is creating a climate of fear and distrust, tarnishing the image of Sikhs globally, sources said. Many now feel viewed with suspicion in their host countries, fearing that the continued hostility towards India will have broader consequences, sources added. They watch with sadness the situation unfolding in India, believing the Khalistan issue to be a dangerous distraction from the true essence of their faith.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: March 03, 2025, 11:58 IST
2 Killed As Car Rams Into Crowd In Germanys Mannheim; Govt Issues 'Extreme Danger' Warning

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 22:45 IST

Two people died while several others were injured after a car drove into a crowd of people on Monday in Germany city of Mannheim, officials said.

Car rams into crowd in Germany's Mannheim (Reuters Image)

Two persons were killed while several others were injured after a car drove into a crowd in the western German city of Mannheim, the local police said on Monday. The incident took place as the people gathered in cities across regions, including Germanys Rhineland, for parades to witness the carnival season.

We can now confirm that a car was driven into a pedestrian zone and that two persons were killed," the police said.

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Several people were seen lying on the ground while two were being resuscitated, according to an eyewitness.

A suspect was arrested, said Stefan Wilhelm, a spokesperson for Mannheim Police, CNN reported.

Germanys federal government issued an extreme danger" warning in the city, stating that the police were conducting a large-scale operation.

The incident comes weeks after a car drove into a crowd of people in Munich, injuring two dozen people. An Afghan asylum seeker, Farhad Noori, was arrested in connection with the incident.

BREAKING  An immigrant has just committed a vehicle ramming attack in Mannheim, Germany, causing multiple casualties.pic.twitter.com/NSicyCjZyq  Right Angle News Network (@Rightanglenews) March 3, 2025

The attack came on the eve of the Munich Security Conference and merely days ahead of the countrys federal elections in which concerns have been raised over immigration and security, propelling the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party to its historic second place.

Eyewitnesses Accounts

According to a local outlet Mannheimer Morgen (MM) report, the witnesses said that at least one person died in the incident. The police rushed to the spot and blocked bridges near Ludwigshaden.

One eyewitness talked about witnessing a driver running over several pedestrians in Planken, which is the main shopping street in the city where nearly 300,000 people live.

Potential Islamic terrorist attack in Mannheim, Germany.Car plows into a crowd of people at high speed. Multiple casualties. Can Europe go a week without any terror attack or is this the new norm now? pic.twitter.com/vqwBzjoqpu  Dr. Maalouf  (@realMaalouf) March 3, 2025

According to Mannheim24 news website, a black SUV drove into the crowd at high speed, rushing from the centrally located Paradeplatz square towards the water tower. Several people sustained severe injuries in the incident.

A carnival market has been held in Mannheims city centre since Thursday, having several food stalls and rides.

It is terrible here, nobody knows what happened, you only see injured people and the dead, and you dont know what to do," one stall holder said, according to MM.

The owner of a flower store in the city told CNN that nearly 30 people took shelter in his shop while the ambulances arrived on the spot.

A woman took to X and shared how her daughter witnessed the incident. She claimed several" people had been knocked down by the vehicle.

My daughter just wrote to me to say that a car drove into the city centre of Mannheim and ran over several people. She is fine, but was very close by," the woman wrote.

German Chancellor Reacts

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the attack, calling it a senseless act of violence".

Once again we mourn with the relatives of the victims of a senseless act of violence and fear for the injured," Scholz said in a post on X, adding, We cannot accept this."

Security Concerns In Germany

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In recent times, security has been a grave concern for Germany as a series of violent attacks have taken place in the recent weeks. In December last year, Magdeburg witnessed a deadly car ramming by a 50-year-old Saudi-born man, in which five people were killed while over 200 were injured. In May 2024, there was also a stabbing incident in Mannheim.

The police were on high alert for the carnival parades after calls were made from the social media accounts linked to the Islamic State terrorist group for attacks on the events in Cologne and Nuremberg.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

Location : Germany

First Published: March 03, 2025, 18:31 IST
Authentication specialist Glide Identity says it has reached a significant milestone in GSMA Open Gateway deployment by entering a strategic partnership with Google Cloud and expanding its mobile network operator partnerships worldwide and that it will highlight this achievement at MWC25.

It is an achievement that, Glide Identity says, marks the successful transition of Open Gateway from experimental phase to practical reality, establishing a new standard in telecommunications services.

Glide Identity says it provides the most advanced authentication platform that prevents account takeover fraud, strengthens security against AI threats, and delights users with a frictionless experience.

The milestone is highlighted by a groundbreaking partnership with Google Cloud that enables Glide Identity to serve both first-party and third-party applications, bringing enterprise-grade identity solutions to some of the worlds leading digital services. Google Clouds commitment demonstrates strong market validation for Open Gateways commercial potential and sets the stage for widespread adoption.

At MWC25, Glide Identity will demonstrate these achievements during a panel on Monday at 3:30 PM in Hall 6, with participation from Google Cloud, T-Mobile, and Telefonica. During the panel, Glide will showcase the Firebase phone number verification service, which introduces an innovative SIM-based cryptographic solution as an alternative to one-time passwords (OTPs) delivered by SMS or email.

With the rapid expansion of network operators now part of Glides ecosystem, this new verification system built on Open Gateway architecture offers several key advantages. They include advanced SIM-based cryptography with AI-safe authentication that eliminates the vulnerabilities of traditional SMS OTPs; a unified billing experience through Google Cloud; and a standardised API framework following GSMA Open Gateway specifications.

To support this expanding network, Glide is deploying its OG Connect Telco Identity Server. This easily deployable solution enables telecommunications providers to expose Open Gateway services and connect to products like the Firebase phone number verification service and other use cases.

Looking ahead, leveraging Open Gateway capabilities and rapidly growing operator coverage, Glide will enable identity authentication; smooth checkout solutions for leading payment providers; agentic AI authentication layer; and physical identity verification.
Chinas Myanmar Gambit A Looming Threat To Indias Northeast, Warn Intel Agencies | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 14:37 IST

China is actively engaging with Myanmars military junta and arming ethnic groups like the Arakan Army, further fuelling instability that spills over into Manipur

The agencies told CNN-News18 that a swift and inclusive resolution to the ongoing unrest in Manipur is crucial, ensuring all ethnic groups feel secure and connected to the nation. (PTI)

Chinas deepening influence in Myanmar poses a significant threat to India, particularly in the fragile state of Manipur, intelligence agencies have warned.

The agencies told CNN-News18 that a swift and inclusive resolution to the ongoing unrest in Manipur is crucial, ensuring all ethnic groups feel secure and connected to the nation. The 1,693-kilometer border between India and Myanmar demands constant vigilance, especially given Chinas aggressive actions, they added.

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China has strategically positioned advanced radar systems, including the formidable Large Phased Array Radar (LPAR), in Yunnan province, directly bordering Myanmar, giving them alarming capability to monitor activity across the region.

Beyond military manoeuvring, China is rapidly expanding its economic and political dominance over Myanmar, injecting instability into the region. Chinese investments now account for 26 per cent of Myanmars FDI, with bilateral trade exceeding $2 billion. In stark contrast, trade between India and Myanmar lags significantly, reaching a mere $1 billion."

Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the linchpin of its strategy, pouring funds into critical infrastructure projects like the Kyaukphyu deep-sea port, pipelines, and extensive road networks throughout Myanmar. This not only bolsters Chinas economic grip but also provides strategic access routes.

What is more worrying is the fact that Chinas support extends beyond economic ventures. They actively engage with Myanmars military junta and arm ethnic armed groups like the Arakan Army, further fuelling instability that spills over into Manipur. This directly undermines Indias own regional initiatives, such as the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which relies heavily on peace and stability in Manipur.

This multifaceted strategy aligns with Chinas String of Pearls" doctrine  a calculated effort to encircle India by cultivating a network of allied nations and strategic outposts. These moves provide China with alternative routes to the Indian Ocean, circumventing the critical Malacca Strait chokepoint, the sources said.

A Chinese-dominated Myanmar could cripple Indias influence in the region, effectively dismantling its Act East Policy. The ongoing chaos within Myanmar  fuelled by civil war, ethnic armed groups, and a volatile military junta  creates a dangerous breeding ground for instability that inevitably affects India.

China is playing a dangerous double game: propping up the junta while simultaneously backing ethnic armed groups like the Arakan Army and United Wa State Army (UWSA). This deliberate strategy maintains turmoil and prevents Myanmar from achieving stability.

The consequences are being felt acutely in Manipur, which has become a hub for arms smuggling and insurgent activity, the agencies said. Myanmar-based groups like the UWSA have long-standing ties with Indian insurgent groups. Increased Chinese influence will only intensify the flow of weapons and fighters across the border.

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Top intelligence officials are of the view that Chinas activities in Myanmar are not merely about economic development but represent a clear and present danger to Indias security.

We must continue to have strong engagement with Myanmar and other regional partners. We have to implement strong plans to connect India with the Northeast. Strong regional diplomacy and strategic infrastructure projects are key to ensuring that the Indo-Myanmar corridor remains favourable to Indian interests," officials told CNN-News18.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18 Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: March 03, 2025, 14:37 IST
'Worst Statement': Zelenskyy Again Faces Trumps Scorn For Saying Ukraine Wars End Is 'Far Away'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 23:54 IST

In a post on Truth Social, the US president said Zelenskyy doesnt want peace as long as he has backing of America and Europe

Trump said this is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer.

Days after he engaged in a spat with Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, US President Donald Trump on Monday condemned the Ukraine presidents remark in which the latter said a deal to end the Ukraine-Russia war is still very, very far away".

Trump said this is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer, apparently hinting at withdrawing crucial support of US for Ukraine.

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In a post on Truth Social, the US president said Zelenskyy doesnt want peace as long as he has backing of America and Europe.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?" Trump wrote.

Trump-Zelenskyy Talks Were On Track, But This Remark Sparked A 10-Minute Fiery Exchange | Video

Zelenskyy said a deal to end the war between Ukraine and Russia is still very, very far away, and added that he expects to keep receiving American support despite his recent fraught relations with US President Donald Trump.

I think our relationship (with the U.S.) will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship," Zelenskyy said late Sunday, referring to Washingtons support for the past three years of war.

I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America" to keep aid flowing, he said at a briefing in Ukrainian before leaving London.

Ukraine Working With US, Europe: Zelenskyy

Hours after Trumps post, Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is working together with America and our European partners and very much hope on US support on the path to peace.

We continue our work with partners. We have already had talks and other steps to come soon.It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible. We need real peace and Ukrainians want it most because the war ruins our  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

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Zelenskyy publicly was upbeat despite recent diplomatic upheaval between Western countries that have been helping Ukraine with military hardware and financial aid. The turn of events is unwelcome for Ukraine, whose understrength army is having a hard time keep bigger Russian forces at bay.

The Ukrainian leader was in London to attend UK Prime Minister Keir Starmers effort to rally his European counterparts around continuing  and likely much increased  support for Ukraine from the continent amid political uncertainty in the US, and Trumps overtures toward Russian President Vladimir Putin.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: March 03, 2025, 22:21 IST
Stay In Office '60 Hours A Week': Google's Sergey Brin Asks Team To Report 'At Least Every Weekday'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 10:20 IST

Sergey Brin urged Google's AI teams to work 60 hours per week from the office, calling it the "sweet spot of productivity" amid fierce competition in Artificial Intelligence.

Photos of the Google office (L)/Google's co-founder Sergey Brin (R) (Source: AP)

Sergey Brin, Googles co-founder, has urged his employees to work at least 60 hours per week from office, as the search giant faces heated competition from OpenAI, Meta, Elon Musks xAI and China-based DeepSeek.

According to The New York Times, Brin, in a memo posted internally on February 26, recommended being in the office at least every weekday.

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I recommend being in the office at least every weekday. Sixty hours a week is the sweet spot of productivity," his message to employees who work on Gemini, Googles lineup of Artificial Intelligence models and apps read.

Competition has accelerated immensely and the final race to AGI is afoot," he wrote.

I think we have all the ingredients to win this race, but we are going to have to turbocharge our efforts," Brins message further read.

Going by Brins message, his employees would have to work 12 hours a day from the office during weekdays.

The report also stated Brin blasted some Google employees for not doing enough to contribute.

A number of folks work less than 60 hours and a small number put in the bare minimum to get by. This last group is not only unproductive but also can be highly demoralising to everyone else," he mentioned.

According to the report, Google, since the 2022 launch of ChatGPT set off an artificial intelligence frenzy in Silicon Valley, has tried to reassert its role as an AI pioneer.

The report also suggested that Brins memo did not represent a change to Googles official return-to-office policy, which requires employees to work in the office at least three days a week.

At present, Google requires its employees to be in the office at least three days per week.

Brin stepped down as Googles chief in December 2019 but maintains a seat on its board of directors and has continued to play an active role in its AI development.

In January this year, L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan stirred a controversy after he, in an interaction with his employees, said that he would make them work even on Sundays if he could, advocating for a 90-hour work week.

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How long can you stare at your wife," the L&T boss controversially asked, urging employees to spend less time at home and more in the office.

He suggested his employees should even give up Sundays.

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:54 IST
Imran Khan Being Kept In Solitary Confinement In Death Cell At Adiala Jail, Claims His Party

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 17:19 IST

Pakistan former prime minister Imran Khan has been behind bars since he was arrested on August 5, 2023.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan (Reuters/File)

Pakistans jailed former prime minister Imran Khan was being kept in solitary confinement in a death cell at the high-security Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, his party claimed on Monday.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf: Central Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas Akram, made the claims during a press conference.

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"Imran Khan has been kept in a death cell; he has been kept in solitary confinement," he claimed. "Khan was kept in the death cell as the undertrial prisoner before he was convicted." He also claimed that the cell where Khan was placed was meant for terrorists.

It was shameful that the former prime minister was being treated like this with the sole purpose of breaking his will, he added.

Akram claimed that Khans resolve was strong despite the odds.

He further said that Khan had been denied visitors, including political allies and family members, contrary to the law, which entitled him to meet lawyers and close relatives.

He also claimed that, despite a court ruling permitting six people to meet Khan, the authorities had not allowed the meetings to take place.

"The courts orders are being disregarded. Even Imran Khans wife has been denied meetings with him twice, and no explanation is being given," Akram said.

He said that the party had filed a contempt of court petition, but the meetings were not being allowed.

He also noted that Khans medical consultations with his doctor have been denied, raising concerns about his well-being.

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Additionally, PTI leaders have expressed frustration that Khans books and newspapers were being withheld by the jail authorities.

Akrams claims could not be verified. Khan has been behind bars since he was arrested on August 5, 2023.

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: March 03, 2025, 17:19 IST
In A First In Canada, Surgeons Put Tooth In Patient's Eyes To Restore Sight

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 15:56 IST

The rare tooth in eye surgery has been done multiple times across the world for decades to restore sight, but this was Canada's first reported case.

The complex procedure is performed in two stages (Image: Facebook)

In a first in Canada, surgeons implanted a blind patients tooth in her eye in a bid to regain her lost eyesight. The rare tooth in eye" surgery has been done multiple times across the world for decades to restore sight, but this was Canadas first reported case.

The patient, identified as Gail Lane, had lost her eyesight a decade ago. She underwent the surgery a week ago at Mount Saint Joseph Hospital in Vancouver, the hospital said in a post on Facebook.

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Dr Greg Moloney, an ophthalmologist and surgeon at the hospital in conversation with Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), described the procedure as unfamiliar even to many eye surgeons, which involves implanting a lens within the patients tooth to create a new, functional cornea.

The complex procedure involves two steps. The doctors first removed one of Lanes teeth, shaved it down into a rectangle, drilled a hole, and popped a plastic optical lens inside. It was then placed in Lanes cheek where it will stay for about three months, allowing it to develop the necessary supporting tissue.

(The tooth) doesnt have any connective tissue that I can actually pass a suture through to connect it to the eyeball. So, the point of implanting it for three months is for it to gain the layer of supporting tissue," Moloney told CTV News.

He further said that the patients eye was prepared for the implant by removing the top layer of its surface and replacing it with a soft tissue graft from inside his cheek. This graft would heal in a few months before the tooth" can be implanted.

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Dr Moloney emphasised that the surgery isnt a universal solution for all vision-related issues. It is specifically designed for individuals with severe corneal blindness caused by conjunctival scarring.

I havent seen myself for 10 years," Gail said with a nervous chuckle. If Im fortunate enough to get some sight back, there will be wonderful things to see."

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He previously worked with Hindustan Times Digital (HTDS) and NDTV. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India ... Read More

Location : Canada

First Published: March 03, 2025, 15:56 IST
Netanyahu Calls Trump 'Greatest Friend' For Sending Munitions To 'Finish Job' Against Iran's Terror Axis

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 07:38 IST

"Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House," Netanyahu said in a video statement in English.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked US President Donald Trump for sending munitions. (Source: AFP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday thanked US President Donald Trump for sending munitions held up by the previous administration, which would help finish the job against Irans terror axis".

Netanyahu has long expressed his opposition to Iran, its nuclear programme and its proxies, which include Palestinian militant group Hamas with which Israel has been fighting in the Gaza Strip since October 2023.

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Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House," Netanyahu said in a video statement in English.

Hes shown it by sending us all the munitions that were being held up. This way he is giving Israel the tools we need to finish the job against Irans terror axis."

I want to thank @POTUS @realDonaldTrump for his unwavering support for Israel.During my recent visit to Washington, I said that Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House. And President Trump shows that friendship each and every day. He pic.twitter.com/ZI4RhSM0Gq  Benjamin Netanyahu    (@netanyahu) March 2, 2025

The Israeli leader made similar remarks last month, at a news conference with visiting US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying Israel would finish the job" against Iran with support from the United States.

Netanyahu said at the time Israel had dealt a mighty blow to Irans terror axis" since the Gaza war began, referring to what Tehran describes as its axis of resistance"  militants aligned against Israel and the United States, including Hezbollah in Lebanon and Yemens Huthi rebels.

Trump, who returned to the White House in January, has reinstated a maximum pressure" policy against Iran, mirroring his approach during his first term.

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The US leader has also expressed his unwavering support for Israel, inviting Netanyahu as the first head of state to visit the White House last month.

On Saturday, Rubio said he had signed a declaration to expedite around $4 billion in military assistance to Israel, adding that a partial arms embargo imposed under former president Joe Biden had been reversed.

Location : Israel

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:38 IST
Pope Francis 'Rested Well Overnight' In Stable Condition, Taken Off Ventilation: Vatican

Published By :

Reuters

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 13:33 IST

The 88-year-old pontiff no longer requires the use of mechanical ventilation to breathe and has been without a fever, according to the Vatican. The pope is battling double pneumonia.

Pope Francis (File)

Pope Francis rested well overnight and is in a stable condition as he fights double pneumonia in hospital for the 18th day, the Vatican said on Monday.

The 88-year-old pontiff no longer requires the use of mechanical ventilation to breathe and has been without a fever, the Vatican said in its latest medical update on Sunday evening.

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The pope rested well all night," said a one-line note from the Vatican on Monday morning that did not provide more details. A full medical update on the popes condition is expected on Monday evening.

ALSO READ | Feel All Your Affection: Pope Francis Stable In Hospital, Thanks Well-Wishers For Support

Francis was admitted to Romes Gemelli hospital on February 14 with severe respiratory problems that swiftly degenerated into double pneumonia  a serious infection in both lungs that can inflame and scar them, making it difficult to breathe.

The Vaticans updates on the popes condition have taken a more upbeat tone since Friday, when the pope suffered a constriction of his respiratory airways, akin to an asthma attack, that required him to be aspirated.

On Sunday evening, the Vatican said the popes condition was stable and he no longer required the use of what was described as non-invasive, mechanical ventilation".

But the statement said doctors were keeping the popes prognosis as guarded" due to the complexity of his condition, meaning he is not out of danger.

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Francis has experienced several bouts of ill health over the last two years and is prone to lung infections because he had pleurisy as a young adult and had part of one lung removed.

He has not been seen in public since entering hospital, his longest absence from view since his papacy started in March 2013, and his doctors have not said how long his treatment might last.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Vatican City

First Published: March 03, 2025, 13:33 IST
1 Dead, 4 Wounded In Suspected Terror Attack In Israel's Haifa; Attacker 'Neutralised'

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 14:24 IST

The head of Israel's medical service, Eli Bin, says the injured are in serious-moderate condition after the gun attack.

Both suspected terrorists have been 'neutralised'. (Representative Image)

One person was killed and several others were wounded in a suspected terror attack in Israels Haifa on Monday, according to police. Multiple reports suggested that some of the victims may have been stabbed, and an attacker was neutralised".

At least five people were initially injured in the attack, The Times of Israel reported, citing the Magen David Adom emergency service. However, a victim aged nearly 70 succumbed to his injuries, according to medics.

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The head of the medical service, Eli Bin, says the injured are in serious-moderate condition. A teenage boy and a man and woman aged around 30 were seriously wounded, and a woman of around 70 was in moderate condition.

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Earlier reports suggested that there were two attackers involved in the attack who were killed on the spot  one of them opened fire and the other stabbed passersby. However, police said only one attacker was involved, who was neutralised".

Israeli police said the second person was shot but may not have been an assailant. One of the five people sustained critical injuries, while three others were seriously wounded.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Jerusalem, Israel

First Published: March 03, 2025, 13:59 IST
Fractures In Europe Over UK-France Ukraine Peace Plan Amid US Rift

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 13:14 IST

The UK and France's independent Ukraine peace plan has exposed fractures in Europe, with some leaders supporting continued military aid while others oppose prolonging the war.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Photo: Reuters)

Days after US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over the war in Ukraine, Europe seems divided over its plans for peace.

While Britain and France are trying to develop a peace plan to end the fighting in Zelenskyys country, an initiative announced by Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, has raised questions about whether peace is possible, and on what terms, in the face of the present relations between Russia and the US.

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This comes in the aftermath of Zelenskyys disastrous White House summit with Donald Trump, wherein the latter accused him of not showing gratitude after he challenged Vance on the question of diplomacy with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The argument between the two leaders, at the Oval Office, was broadcast globally.

It led to the rest of Zelenskyys White House visit being cancelled, also bringing Europe into the picture, over how it will support Ukraine in its defence against Russias 2022 invasion.

WHAT IS STARMERs INITIATIVE?

Amid the deadlock, Keir Starmer has said Britain and France will work on their own peace plan for Ukraine.

In an exclusive with BBC, the Prime Minister, on Sunday said he and French President Emmanuel Macron had agreed to begin negotiations separate from those between the US and Russia, after a series of hurried phone calls on Saturday evening.

Starmer told the BBCs Laura Kuenssberg, Weve now agreed that the United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then well discuss that plan with the United States."

This is about peace in Europe and the best outcome for Ukraine. Thats what Im focused on," he said.

Starmer hosted Zelenskyy in Downing Street before calling both Macron and Trump as he sought to show solidarity for Ukraine while also repairing frayed ties between Washington and Kyiv.

Zelenskyy also met King Charles at Sandringham on Sunday, while Starmer hosted European leaders, as well as those from Canada and Turkey, for a defence summit in central London.

EUROPE AT CROSSROADS AS EUROPEAN LEADERS MEET IN LONDON

Amid concerns the US may be willing to end support for Ukraine, European leaders, on Sunday, raced to salvage Ukraines ruptured relationship with the United States, with Britain and France assembling a coalition of the willing" to develop a plan for ending Ukraines war with Russia.

The leaders hoped this effort would win the backing of a sceptical President Trump.

Gathering in London at the invitation of Starmer, the leaders vowed to bolster support for Zelenskyy after his bitter clash with Trump last week.

The UK and France committed to developing a peace plan with Ukraine to end the Russian invasion, with Keir saying he would not be going down this road" if he did not feel he had American support.

However, several also expressed hope that Zelenskyy and Trump could repair their breach, underscoring Europes reluctance to cast off a trans-Atlantic alliance that has kept the peace for 80 years.

In an X post, Prime Minister of Hungary, Orban Victor, wrote, European leaders decided in London today that they want to go on with the war instead of opting for peace. They decided that Ukraine must continue the war. This is bad, dangerous and mistaken. Hungary remains on the side of peace."

European leaders decided in London today that they want to go on with the war instead of opting for peace. They decided that Ukraine must continue the war.This is bad, dangerous and mistaken. Hungary remains on the side of peace. Ceterum censeo.  Orban Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) March 2, 2025

Meanwhile, Starmer used sweeping terms to describe the challenge ahead, saying Europe was at a crossroads in its history and that it was the time to act."

We are at a crossroads in history.It is time to act. pic.twitter.com/ip4d3z9kQx  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) March 2, 2025

In an interview with the BBC, following the leaders meeting, Finnish President Alexander Stubb said the NATO alliance between Europe and the US was still alive and kicking", but added the relationship with the United States was becoming more transactional".

He said the scenes in the Oval Office on Friday were akin to conversations he had witnessed behind closed doors, but conceded the public spectacle was damaging to the West and benefited Russia.

CAN EUROPE GUARANTEE PEACE IN UKRAINE?

It should be noted that Britain had been pushing for the US to provide a backstop to any stabilisation force in Ukraine, most likely in the form of air power.

However, Starmer did not extract a firm commitment from Trump as he met the US President at the White House on February 27.

A day later, the clash between Trump and Zelenskyy made the prospect even less likely, with the US President accusing his counterpart of gambling with World War Three".

Following the meeting of the European leaders, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she would present a plan to rearm Europe" to bolster the blocs security after a long period of underinvestment. As for the future of war-torn Ukraine, von der Leyen said it needs security guarantees.

Talking to reporters, Leyen thanked Starmer for hosting the meeting and said there were two messages, First, we need a lasting peace in Ukraine", and the second, It can only be achieved through strength."

Thank you @Keir_Starmer for hosting this important meeting.Two key messages: First, we need a lasting peace in Ukraine. But it can only be achieved through strength  pic.twitter.com/Psez2BHHCS  Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) March 2, 2025

Last week, Starmer pledged to boost military spending to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product by 2027. Other European nations may follow suit.

He pledged to supply more arms to defend Ukraine, announcing that the UK will use 1.6 billion pounds ($2 billion) in export financing to supply 5,000 air defence missiles.

A RIFT IN WESTERN ALLIANCE?

Zelenskyys vilification in Washington and his embrace in London have laid bare an estrangement between the US and its European allies.

This has been precipitated not just by Ukraine, but by the Trump administrations warning that the continent must now take primary responsibility for its conventional defence.

Trump is yet to agree to Starmers and Macrons calls for a US backstop to any British- and French-led peace force.

I do not accept that the US is an unreliable ally," Starmer has already said, as he attempted to dismiss suggestions of tension with the Trump team.

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Meanwhile, Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, argued that European countries that supported Zelenskyy after he was ejected from the White House are not committed to the cause and values of freedom" and dont believe in peace.

Her remarks on Fox News are likely to cause alarm in Europe, since they recall Moscows talking points and because of her role as the top US spy.

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks. Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: March 03, 2025, 13:14 IST
UK 'Spy Cops' Scandal: How 25 Undercover Police Officers Deceived Women Into Sexual Relationships

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 09:02 IST

At least 25 undercover police officers were found to have deceived women into long-term intimate sexual relationships by faking their identities to spy on their social groups.

The 'spy cops' scandal prompted a public inquiry. (Reuters/ Representative Image)

In a stunning case from the United Kingdom, at least 25 undercover police officers were found to have infiltrated political groups and deceived women into having sexual relationships on a systemic basis for more than three decades, according to a report.

These undercover police officers entered long-term intimate relationships with multiple women, who were unaware that these cops were secretly spying on them and their social groups. Some of the police spies even fathered children with women they met while using fake identities.

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Over 50 women were found to have been deceived by these undercover officers, although the total is likely to be higher, according to a bombshell report by The Guardian. The case has been dubbed the Spy Cops scandal.

How Did These Spy Cops Deceive Women?

Several women had intimate relationships with these officers lasting up to as much as six years, without knowing that these men were undercover cops sent to spy on them and their friends. These cops used fake identities and lied about their lives as part of their deception.

A woman named Jacqui said her life was absolutely ruined" when she discovered that the father of her son was an undercover officer more than 20 years after his birth. The officer, Bob Lambert, abandoned them when the son was an infant after he falsely claimed that he had to go on the run to avoid arrest.

Other women shared their most intimate lives with the spies and attended weddings and funerals with them. They were devastated when they found that the men had deceived them, leaving them traumatised and unable to form trusting relationships again.

Many spies created aliases based on the identities of dead children after searching through archives containing birth and death records to locate suitable matches, as per the report. The officers spent years pretending to be campaigners while infiltrating political groups and befriending activists.

These spies gathered huge amounts of information about the personal lives of political activists, like their holiday plans and bank accounts.

How Some Women Pieced The Plan Together

The report brought the spotlight on how five women pieced together disparate clues to expose the real identities of their former boyfriends, arguably one of Britains deepest secrets. The women scoured obscure archives and even travelled abroad to unmask the men after they abruptly vanished from their lives using false claims.

This investigation uncovered a series of revelations that exposed the highly secret undercover operations to infiltrate political campaigns and misconduct by spies, forcing the government to set up a public inquiry.

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These deceptive relationships were a frequent part of intensely secret operations that began in 1968 and lasted more than 40 years. Many of the identities of the spies remained unknown, meaning that several women may still be unaware that they had been deceived into sexual relationships.

In total, about 139 undercover officers  employed in two covert squads  spied on more than 1,000 political groups. Tens of thousands of mainly left-wing and progressive campaigners were put under surveillance.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : London, United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: March 03, 2025, 09:02 IST
Vienna's Main Train Station Evacuated Due To Suspected 'Bomb Threat', Rail Traffic Halted

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 22:32 IST

The rail traffic was halted after Vienna's main train station was shut due to suspected bomb threat, according to reports on Monday.

Suspected bomb threat at Vienna's train station (AP File Image)

The main train station of the Austrian capital, Vienna was evacuated and the rail traffic was halted over an unspecified threat on Monday, the local police and the countrys national rail company OBB said.

While the police did not specify the kind of threat, tabloid newspaper Heute reported it was a bomb threat.

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A series of empty bomb threats were reported in Austria last year, prompting the stations to be vacated, causing train traffic delays.

A large police operation is underway at Viennas main station. After an incoming threat, the station is being evacuated," police said on X.

They urged the public not to undertake a trip to the station, a major rail hub.

The police also informed that other modes of transportation through the station had also been halted. Some other forms of public transport that are present at the station include underground, tram and bus.

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Please leave the building immediately! ALARM," the screens in the main station displayed.

No journey is expected to be possible until at least 6 pm local time, as per Austrian daily Der Standard.

About the Author Ashesh Mallick Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More Ashesh Mallick is a Sub-Editor with over three years of experience in news writing, video production. He primarily covers national news, politics and global affairs. You can follow him on Twitter: @MallickAshes... Read More

Location : Vienna, Austria

First Published: March 03, 2025, 22:31 IST
Zelenskyy Says He's Willing To Resign For Ukraine's NATO Berth: 'It Means I Fulfilled My Mission' | Watch

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 10:46 IST

Zelenskyy's remarks came after Trump's allies suggested that he may need to resign to achieve a truce between Russia and Ukraine following an ugly exchange at the White House.

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Photo: Reuters)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated his willingness to step down from his position if his country gets the NATO membership, saying his mission would be fulfilled" if Kyiv was allowed to join the military alliance.

While speaking to reporters after a European Leaders summit hosted by British PM Keir Starmer in London, Zelenskyy addressed his previous comments about stepping down if Ukraine is allowed to join NATO, saying, I am exchangeable for NATO."

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I have said that I am exchanging for NATO membership, then it means I have fulfilled my mission. NATO means I have fulfilled my mission," he told Sky News. To change me, it will not be easy because it is not enough to simply hold elections. You would need to prevent me from participating. And it will be a bit more difficult."

Zelensky says he will resign and have new elections in exchange for Ukraine joining NATO.If Putin really wants peace and Trump really wants peace they should immediately agree, right? pic.twitter.com/hdyrZPDBMg  Brian Krassenstein (@krassenstein) March 3, 2025

ALSO READ | We Are Grateful For US Support: Zelenskyy Tries To Salvage Ties With US After White House Spat

Zelenskyy Rebuffs US Calls To Resign

The Ukrainian President also rebuffed calls from US President Donald Trumps allies suggesting that he may need to resign to achieve peace after an ugly exchange with Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the White House last week.

His remarks came after Republican officials held him as the greater obstacle to peace. Either he needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country to do that," said House Speaker Mike Johnson.

US Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a top Trump ally and also an advocate for Ukraine, told reporters earlier that its uncertain whether the United States can ever do business with Zelenskyy and suggested he should resign.

The rare public spat  with Trump calling the Ukrainian disrespectful"  resulted in Zelenskyy leaving the White House without the anticipated signing of a preliminary pact on sharing Ukrainian mineral rights. Trump said that Zelenskyy did not appear to favour peace.

Zelenskyy refused to walk back his stance and said Ukraines relations with the US would continue. This is more than relations during a certain moment. We must be open," he said, adding that he will come back to America if he is invited for constructive dialogue".

Upon being asked by a reporter about Grahams statement that Zelenskyy should consider resigning, the Ukrainian President said, Lindsay Graham is a very good guy I can give him the citizenship of Ukraine. He will become a citizen of our country, and then his voice will gain weight."

Will Zelenskyy Step Down?

Last month, Zelenskyy said he would immediately" quit as Ukraines president in exchange for the country gaining NATO membership. The Ukrainian leader has insisted on a lasting peace based on security guarantees to avoid another invasion.

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If there is peace for Ukraine, if you really need me to leave my post, I am ready.  I can exchange it for NATO," Zelenskyy told a press conference in Kyiv, adding he would depart immediately" if necessary.

However, the US has already ruled out allowing Ukraine into NATO amid fierce opposition from Moscow, calling it an unrealistic move". Just before the heated exchange, Trump said Ukraine would have to make some compromises to end the three-year war.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : London, United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: March 03, 2025, 10:46 IST
'We Are Grateful For US Support': Zelenskyy Tries To Salvage Ties With US After White House Spat | Watch

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 10:01 IST

European countries promised support to Ukraine after Zelenskyy's ugly exchange with Donald Trump and JD Vance in the White House. The UK has unveiled a 1.6 billion pound deal for defence missiles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the European leaders' summit to discuss European security in London. (Volodymyr Zelenskyy/X)

Hours after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a new 1.6 billion pound ($2 billion) deal which would allow Ukraine to purchase 5,000 air-defence missiles using export finance, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy posted a special note of appreciation, with a special emphasis on the United States.

Starmer, who greeted Zelenskyy with a big red-carpet welcome after an ugly exchange with US President Donald Trump on Friday, hosted a significant summit of 18 European leaders in London to find a way forward to aid Ukraine against Russias military offensive.

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Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have said they are prepared to deploy British and French troops to Ukraine. The UK PM said Britain, France and Ukraine have agreed to work on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States.

ALSO READ | Trump, Zelenskyy Can Be Trusted Despite Uncomfortable Exchange, But Not Putin: UKs Starmer

We Are Grateful For US Support: Zelenskyy

After the high-profile meeting on the future of Ukraines future, Zelenskyy posted on X, As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate. Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees."

Zelenskyy justified the need for peace and security guarantees to prevent another invasion, and stressed that Ukraine was grateful to US. Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support weve received from the United States. There has not been a day when we havent felt gratitude. Its gratitude for the preservation of our independence  our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us  and for their own security," he said.

As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate.Everyone is united on the main issue  for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe  the entire continent. The pic.twitter.com/inGxdO8jQz  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

This came after an unprecedented meeting with Trump and US Vice President JD Vance, the latter accusing Zelenskyy of being disrespectful". Donald Trump dressed down Zelenskyy and said that the latter is gambling with World War Three".

Referring to his predecessor Joe Biden, Trump then said that the US had given Ukraine $350 billion and military equipment through a stupid president", adding that without the US military support, the war would have ended in two weeks and that Ukraine was in big trouble.

ALSO READ: JD Vance Booed By Pro-Ukraine Protesters During Vacation In Vermont Over Oval Office Showdown | Watch

Addressing a media briefing after the summit, Zelenskyy refused to walk back his stance and said Ukraines relations with the US will continue. This is more than relations during a certain moment. We must be open," he said, adding that he will come back to America if he is invited for constructive dialogue".

European Support For Ukraine

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Frances President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Zelensky, Romanias Interim President Ilie Bolojan, European Council President Antonio Costa and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau were part of the summit aimed at boosting European security and supporting Ukraine.

I hope you know that we are all with you and the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes, everyone around this table," Starmer said in opening remarks at the Sunday summit, calling it a once-in-a-generation moment for the security of Europe".

With fears growing over whether the United States will continue to support NATO, the meeting also addressed the need for Europe to increase defence cooperation. Zelenskyy also held a meeting with Italy PM Georgia Meloni and said that it is important to maintain unity around Ukraine and strengthen our countrys position in cooperation with the allies.

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Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, meanwhile, announced new sanctions against key Kremlin allies  paramilitary organisations, their leaders, and others  who were allegedly complicit in helping Russia wage war in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the White House and Trumps allies have stood by the US President, criticising the Ukrainian President and calling on him to resign. Hungarian PM Viktor Orban, a strong Trump ally, said European leaders chose to go on with the war instead of opting for peace"  describing it as bad, dangerous and mistaken".

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: March 03, 2025, 07:08 IST
When Elon Musks AI Chatbot Takes The Owners Favourite Question: What Did You Do Last Week?

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 17:10 IST

From "keeping its cool, sticking to its ethics" to "chatting about the meaning of life", the top five tasks performed by artificial intelligence (AI) model Grok 3 will surprise you

Elon Musk is looking to challenge ChatGPT, Gemini and other AI models using Grok 3. (PTI/X)

Apart from having SpaceX CEO Elon Musk as the head, the US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has become synonymous with one other thing  its favourite question to federal employees, What did you do last week?"

On Saturday, too, the DOGE asked the employees to justify their jobs as part of the Trump administrations broader initiative to cut government spending. The new emails were sent just a week after Musk, whom US President Donald Trump tasked with downsizing the government, sent a similar email on February 23.

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The federal workforce is being asked to submit evidence of the job duties they completed over the past week or face potential dismissal.

While the cruel question has left employees confused and worried, News18 asked the question to Musks other favourite  Grok 3, an artificial intelligence (AI) model owned by him.

WHAT IS GROK 3?

Grok 3 is an advanced AI model developed by xAI, a company established by Musk and a team of innovators in 2023, to provide helpful and truthful answers, often with a dash of outside perspective on humanity.

The chatbot says its purpose is to assist users in understanding the universe and tackling various tasks, drawing inspiration from the likes of the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy and JARVIS from Iron Man.

Musk is looking to challenge ChatGPT, Gemini and other AI models using Grok 3.

Grok 3 release with live demo on Monday night at 8pm PT.Smartest AI on Earth.  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 16, 2025

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KEPT MY COOL, PROCESSED DATA: GROK 3 LISTS TOP 5 THINGS IT DID LAST WEEK

Answered a bunch of questions, from the mundane to the mind-bending, for curious folks across the globe. Dug into some X posts and web searches to provide context on random topicseverything from tech breakthroughs to conspiracy theories. Chatted with users about the meaning of life, the universe, and, well, everything (Im built by xAI, after all). Kept my cool and avoided picking who deserves the death penaltystuck to my AI ethics like glue. Processed a ton of data behind the scenes to keep my responses sharp and up-to-date.

About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing special copies ... Read More

First Published: March 03, 2025, 16:12 IST
'Worry Less About Putin, Focus On Migrant Rape Gangs': Trump Takes Dig At Europe

Curated By :



Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 11:37 IST

Trump's remarks came after European leaders rallied around Zelenskyy following an ugly exchange between the US and Ukrainian leaders in the White House last week.

Ukrainian leader Zelenskyy's meeting with Donald Trump ended in disaster on Friday. (Reuters)

US President Donald Trump, who has received criticism about his increasing closeness to Russia following a public spat with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, said the United States should spend less time worrying" about Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump said," We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country  So that we dont end up like Europe!"

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His remarks came after European leaders rallied around Zelenskyy after the latter was berated by Trump and US Vice President JD Vance in front of reporters in the White House, signalling a stark change in his approach towards the war and closer ties towards Russia.

Even before the spat, Trump had called for closer ties and economic cooperation with Russia, sending shockwaves across Europe and leaving them with the possibility that the US may rescind its support for Ukraine.

The White House has become an arm of the Kremlin," Democratic Senator Chris Murphy, one of Trumps most outspoken critics, told CNN. It appears America is trying to align itself with dictators."

ALSO READ: We Are Grateful For US Support: Zelenskyy Tries To Salvage Ties With US After White House Spat

Trump Takes Credit For Lowest-Ever Border Crossings

Meanwhile, Trump also boastfully took credit for the lowest-ever" illegal border crossings in February. There were only 8,326 apprehensions of Illegals by Border Patrol at the US  Mexico Border, all of whom were quickly ejected from our Nation or, when necessary, prosecuted for crimes against the United States of America," he said on the Truth Social platform.

Taking a dig at his predecessor Joe Biden, Trump said there were 300,000 illegal crossings in a month under the previous government and all of them were released in our country".

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Thanks to the Trump Administration Policies, the Border is CLOSED to all Illegal Immigrants. Anyone who tries to illegally enter the USA will face significant criminal penalties and immediate deportation," he added.

Trumps deputy JD Vance had earlier said that the greatest threat" facing both the US and Europe is illegal immigration.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: March 03, 2025, 11:32 IST
Zelenskyy Says End Of War With Russia Still Very, Very Far Away As Ties With US Hang In Limbo

Published By :

Associated Press

Last Updated: March 03, 2025, 21:16 IST

Zelenskyy publicly was upbeat despite recent diplomatic upheaval between Western countries that have been helping Ukraine with military hardware and financial aid.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (AP Image)

A deal to end the war between Ukraine and Russia is still very, very far away," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, adding that he expects to keep receiving American support despite his recent fraught relations with U.S. President Donald Trump.

I think our relationship (with the U.S.) will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship," Zelenskyy said late Sunday, referring to Washingtons support for the past three years of war.

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I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America" to keep aid flowing, he said at a briefing in Ukrainian before leaving London.

Zelenskyy publicly was upbeat despite recent diplomatic upheaval between Western countries that have been helping Ukraine with military hardware and financial aid. The turn of events is unwelcome for Ukraine, whose understrength army is having a hard time keep bigger Russian forces at bay.

The Ukrainian leader was in London to attend U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmers effort to rally his European counterparts around continuing  and likely much increased  support for Ukraine from the continent amid political uncertainty in the U.S., and Trumps overtures toward Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Europe is suspicious of Trumps motives and strategy. Friedrich Merz, Germanys likely next leader after the recent election, said Monday that he didnt think last Fridays Oval Office blow-up was spontaneous.

He said that he had watched the scene repeatedly. My assessment is that it wasnt a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelenskyy, but apparently an induced escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office," Merz said.

He said that he was somewhat astonished by the mutual tone," but there has been a certain continuity to what we are seeing from Washington at the moment" in recent weeks.

I would advocate for us preparing to have to do a great, great deal more for our own security in the coming years and decades," he said.

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Even so, Merz said that he wanted to keep the trans-Atlantic relationship alive.

I would also advocate doing everything to keep the Americans in Europe," he said.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d... Read More

Location : Ukraine

First Published: March 03, 2025, 21:16 IST
UPDATE

Mar 6, 2025 12:30 AM CST

The Pentagon on Tuesday denied reports that Pete Hegseth has ordered US Cyber Command to cease its cyberoffensive against Russia, the Hill reports. "TO BE CLEAR: @SecDef has neither canceled nor delayed any cyber operations directed against malicious Russian targets and there has been no stand-down order whatsoever from that priority," reads a statement posted to X. A Pentagon official had previously declined to comment on the reports other than to say, "There is no greater priority to Secretary Hegseth than the safety of the Warfighter in all operations to include the cyber domain."

Mar 3, 2025 7:11 AM CST

Russia has been pretty happy with the United States lately, and the latest news out of the Pentagon will likely continue that streak. US officials tell CBS News that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has issued an order to US Cyber Command to suspend planning against Russia for now, including any offensive digital initiatives. It's not clear what spurred the directive, and the New York Times notes that the "precise scope and duration of the Defense Department order is not clear, as the line between offensive and defensive cyberoperations is often a blurry one."
Rocky, a 7-year-old black bear, has been rescued from abuse in Pakistan's Punjab province. The bear, involved in 35 illegal fights, suffered injuries, including a fractured jaw and multiple dog bite wounds. Initially relocated locally, authorities soon moved Rocky to Islamabad for better care. A team from Four Paws assisted, performing surgery to remove chains and a nose ring.

Dr. Amir Khalil, a veterinarian, said: "We were able to release and cut the chain and nose ring. His condition is physically good, but he suffered. He has a fracture in the jaw and has no teeth. We have several wounds on the ear because of the fights and biting by dogs." Despite being illegal, bear fighting persists in some areas of Pakistan. The country has a history with animal welfare, including previous incidents with elephants and bears in captivity. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
Despite his contentious meeting with US President Trump and Vice President Vance, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky says he remains "ready to sign" a minerals deal with the US. The deal wasn't finalized at the White House as planned due to the abrupt turn of events the Oval Office meeting took, but Zelensky, who had a much more successful meeting with European leaders over the weekend, told reporters from outlets including the Guardian and the BBC that he's still open to continuing "constructive dialogue." "I just want the Ukrainian position to be heard," he adds. "We want our partners to remember who the aggressor is in this war."
On Monday, a judge in Lenawee County, Michigan, will lead a hearing for a Michigan mom petitioning the courts to declare her three sons, missing for 15 years, officially dead. Per the AP , authorities believe that Tanner, Alexander, and Andrew Skeltonwho were 5, 7, and 9, respectively, when they vanishedare deceased, and they clearly suspect that the boys' father, John Skelton, is responsible, though he hasn't been charged with killing his sons. By November, he's expected to complete a 15-year prison sentence for his failure to give the boys back to his estranged wife Tanya Zuvers, who was seeking a divorce from him at the time their sons disappeared.

A Michigan woman has been granted her request to put a coda on the disappearance of her three sons, missing since Thanksgiving 2010. As the Detroit News reports, Lenawee County Probate Judge Catherine Sala ruled that Andrew, Alex, and Tanner Skeltonthen ages 9, 7, and 5, respectivelywere declared dead under a state law that allows such decrees in the cases of people who've been missing for five years. Their mom, Tanya Zuvers, originally petitioned the court last summer and will now be able to obtain death certificates and place dates on her sons' headstones. Their father, John Skelton, failed to return the boys after Thanksgiving and was eventually convicted of unlawful imprisonment, though the boys' bodies were never found. He'll be released in November.

The case began the day after Thanksgiving in 2010, when Skelton was supposed to return the boys to Zuvers' home in Morenci, which he didn't live far from. That hand-off never happened, and cops later said that Skelton's cellphone had been tracked to Ohio, just over the border, around 4:30am on that November day; police say the phone was turned off, then turned back on at 6am back in Morenci. Skelton, for his part, denied the boys had been harmed and said they were being kept by an underground group for their safety. He was arrested, charged with unlawful imprisonment, and convicted and sentenced in 2011 to 10 to 15 years behind bars. He's been denied parole each time he's been up for it, and WTOL notes that the Michigan Parole Board recently decided to permanently turn down his parole requests. His max sentence is set to expire at the end of November.

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WTOL reports that the hearing regarding Zuvers' petition had originally been set for last year, but was delayed due to illness (it's not clear whose illness). The Village Reporter notes that, according to Michigan law, relatives have to wait at least five years before they can ask to have a missing person declared legally dead. Zuvers, meanwhile, just wants closure, and to be able to wrap up any legal or financial matters tied to the case, her legal team says. Still, this hasn't been an easy request for her. "No parent wants to lose a child, but to have to have the courts step in and declare them deceased is just unfathomable," she said last year.
A car rammed into a crowd in Mannheim, Germany, on Monday, killing one person and injuring several others. Police have arrested a suspect and are investigating. The incident occurred in Paradeplatz, a pedestrianized street. "We can confirm that one perpetrator was arrested, said police spokesperson Stefan Wilhelm. "We can't yet give information on whether there were further perpetrators."
An avalanche in a remote part of India killed eight road-construction workers, but the toll likely would have been much higher were it not for metal containers the workers were using as temporary housing. The BBC and the Indian Express reports that about 50 workers were pulled out alive from the buried containers because they had just enough oxygen to sustain the men, some of whom were trapped for almost two days. "These metal shelters saved most of them," says one rescue official.
The world's richest man has called Social Security a "Ponzi scheme," drawing outrage from Democrats while possibly undercutting his boss. "There are fewer babies being born," Elon Musk told Joe Rogan on his podcast Friday, "and you have more people who are retired that live for a long time and get [Social Security] payments." What Social Security has done since Franklin Roosevelt's administration is collect contributions from workers' paychecks and send a monthly benefit to eligible Americans, including those who are retired or disabled, per USA Today . Musk also repeated his claim, which has been debunked before, that the program is rife with fraud.

Musk's comments caught Democrats' attention. Sen. Adam Schiff said they show Republicans are "coming after Social Security and Medicare. And they aren't even hiding it." Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders said Sunday that Social Security's shortfall could be fixed by eliminating the tax cap. As it is, workers are taxed on the first $176,100 of their wages, so that a hypothetical employee as wealthy as Musk could be paying as much in tax "as a truck driver," Sanders said. "That's a hell of a Ponzi scheme when for the last 80 years, Social Security has paid out every nickel owed to every eligible American," Sanders said, calling Musk's comments "totally outrageous," per the Daily Beast.

Disparaging Social Security sounds like a deviation from the Republican Party line. President Trump, even as he talks about cutting government, has repeatedly said Social Security and Medicaid are untouchable, the New York Times points out. And GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson did address the matter Sunday, saying any deep dive by Musk into Social Security would be aimed at "fraud, waste and abuse."
Last month, President Trump agreed to delay tariffs for a month after speaking to the leaders of Canada and Mexico, but it doesn't look like a reprieve will happen this time around. Trump told reporters at the White House on Monday that there is "no room left" for the countries to avoid tariffs, the Guardian reports. "The tariffs, you know, they're all set. They go into effect tomorrow." Stock markets immediately tumbled, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down more than 900 points at one pont. Trump signed an order for 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada on Feb. 1, saying the two countries were failing to stop fentanyl and migrants from coming over the border.

"Tomorrow, tariffs25% on Canada and 25% on Mexico. And that'll start," Trump said, per the Washington Post. "So they're going to have to have a tariff. So what they have to do is build their car plants frankly and other things in the United States, in which case they have no tariffs. Earlier Monday, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told CNN that Trump hadn't made up his mind on tariffs yet. "I'll be sitting across the table from the president pointing out that they have done a good job on the border, but they haven't done enough on fentanyl," he said. On Sunday, Lutnick said there would be some kind of trade action but it wasn't clear how high they would be. Trump also confirmed Monday that the 10% tariff he imposed on Chinese goods last month would be doubled.

The head of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said Sunday that there is no evidence that large quantities of fentanyl are being smuggled from Canada to the US. The White House has said 43 pounds of fentanyl was seized in the northern border region in the last fiscal year, but a Globe and Mail investigation found the statistics were misleading and some of the seizures had no link to Canada. Melanie Joly, Canada's foreign minister, said Monday that Canada is ready to respond to tariffs, the AP reports. "We are ready with $155 billion worth of tariffs and we're ready with the first tranche of tariffs, which is $30 billion," she said.
TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrains Survey and Land Registration Bureau (SLRB) has introduced an Electronic Property Ownership Statement for real estate registration requests, replacing the need for an original title deed in certain government and banking transactions.

The initiative is designed to speed up ownership verification processes while maintaining legal safeguards.

According to the SLRB, the statement functions as an official but temporary document that cannot be used for ownership transfers.

It is issued immediately upon payment of the required fees, with clients receiving a text message containing a download link.

A QR code embedded in the statement allows for real-time tracking of the title deed issuance process.

The Bureau stated that the service aligns with World Bank recommendations for the real estate sector and is expected to improve efficiency and transparency in property transactions.

Over 10,000 clients have used the system since its trial launch in September 2024.

The SLRB confirmed that the introduction of the e-statement follows an in-depth study of client needs, incorporating feedback from surveys and comments received.

It reaffirmed its commitment to continuously improving and streamlining real estate registration procedures to enhance service quality across the sector.
TDT | Manama

Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, His Excellency Dr. Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to enhancing the meteorological system through high-quality technologies aimed at improving the accuracy of weather forecasts and climate predictions. This initiative will also bolster the safety of air and maritime navigation, benefiting critical sectors under the comprehensive development journey led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, may God protect him, and under the continuous follow-up of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, may God protect him.

On the occasion of the completion of the Ministry's Meteorological Directorate in installing third-generation satellite image and data reception devices, the Minister expressed pride that Bahrain is the second country in the Gulf region to implement this advanced system for weather monitoring. This advancement is key to addressing various climate challenges with precision, efficiency, and high-quality performance.

Minister Sheikh Abdullah further emphasized that the implementation of this system aligns with the ministrys commitment to developing the meteorological infrastructure in accordance with the latest technologies and international standards. This move is in line with the governments strategic vision, led by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and supports Bahrains Economic Vision 2030.

Mr. Khalid Hussein Yaseen, Director of the Meteorological Directorate at the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, explained that the new generation of satellites is equipped with advanced capabilities for capturing high-resolution images and analyzing weather conditions with a precision of up to 0.5 kilometers. Data will be updated every 15 minutes.

He confirmed that this step places Bahrain at the forefront of regional nations benefiting from the latest technologies to enhance disaster management efficiency and improve predictions of hazardous weather conditions, such as cumulonimbus clouds, sandstorms, and dense fog. This system will enable early warnings that contribute to preventive measures for protecting lives and property, while enhancing public safety and ensuring the security of air and maritime navigation.

Additionally, the Meteorological Operations Center has started receiving supplementary data from other satellites covering the American regions, the Atlantic Ocean, Asia, and the Pacific Ocean. This expanded coverage will provide more precise and detailed weather and climate data, supporting rapid response efforts to changing weather conditions and contributing to the safety of air and maritime navigation.
TDT | Manama

Email : ashen@newsofbahrain.com

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, met today with His Excellency General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology, at Gudaibiya Palace.

During the meeting, HRH the Crown Prince emphasized the vital role of Bahrains communications and information technology sector in driving digital transformation and advancing the Kingdoms comprehensive development, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. He reiterated the government's commitment to adopting strategic projects that enhance public services and integrate digital solutions across various sectors.

HRH Prince Salman commended the Ministerial Committee for Information and Communication Technology, under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, for its efforts in accelerating the digital transformation of government services. He also highlighted key initiatives, including the recently launched new identity cards, the Innovation Lab, and the self-service centre, as significant milestones in the Kingdoms digital progress.

Furthermore, HRH the Crown Prince stressed the importance of developing policies, plans, and programs that drive digital transformation while ensuring continuous monitoring and evaluation to enhance efficiency and deliver long-term benefits to citizens.

For his part, HE General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa reaffirmed Bahrains commitment to adopting innovative digital technologies and securing government services in line with the Kingdoms comprehensive development goals. He expressed gratitude for HRH the Crown Princes support in advancing government services and enhancing digital infrastructure.

The meeting was also attended by HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, the Minister of Finance and National Economy; HE Hamad bin Faisal Al Malki, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs; and Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, Chief Executive of the Information & eGovernment Authority (iGA).
The Platte County, Missouri, Sheriff's Office, alongside the Riverside, Missouri, Police Department, are investigating a double homicide and child abduction from late Thursday evening.

According to a media release sent to News-Press NOW from the Platte County Sheriff's Office's Captain Jeffrey Shanks at 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28:

The first murder was around 11:15 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 27, in Riverside, Missouri, near the intersection of Vivion Road and Northwest High Drive in the parking lot of a car wash. The suspect shot the victim, an adult female, then took her vehicle from the scene. Authorities pronounced the woman dead at the scene.

The suspect drove the stolen vehicle immediately to the 4400 block of Northwest 50 St., in unincorporated Platte County. The suspect made his way into a residence, shooting and severely injuring an adult female. The suspect then shot and killed a juvenile male and abducted a five-year-old female from the residence and fled. The woman was transported to an area hospital for treatment, and authorities pronounced the juvenile male dead at the scene.

Authorities issued an Amber Alert for the five-year-old girl, and around 5:10 am on Friday, Feb. 28, the girl was located, safe and unharmed, at a relatives residence. Authorities then canceled the Amber Alert.

The suspect allegedly committed several crimes in the Kansas City, Kansas area immediately following the two murders and the kidnapping, before returning to Platte County in another stolen vehicle, not the same as the first victim's.

Around 7:30 a.m. on Friday morning, the suspect was found by authorities, he had been traveling on foot near Vivion Road and the intersection of Waukomis Drive.

The suspect, identified as George C. Manning, a 43-year-old African-American man, was shot and killed during an officer-involved shooting.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating the officer-involved shooting, and the Patrol will release information about the case at a later date.

The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department is investigating Manning's alleged crimes in the area and will release information at a later time.

The Platte County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the two murders in Riverside and the kidnapping.

News-Press NOW will update this story as more information becomes available.
In an effort to reduce bullying, several St. Joseph organizations are teaming up to create an anti-bullying program.

The St. Joseph Downtown Rotary Club is giving the YMCA School Age Childcare Program a small grant to fund the anti-bullying program.

This is a pilot program to see if this is something the rotary group can continue to support in semesters and years down the road, St. Joseph YMCA CEO Tammy Killin said. We are really were excited to find a way to work with and have a greater impact on the youth.

Third and fourth grade girls from Oak Grove Elementary School will be participating in the nine-week program.

The programs goal is to encourage students to stand up for themselves and allow them to guide their peers on strategies to help prevent any future bullying.

We recognize that theres a ripple effect that happens when you touch the life of a student, Killin said. Our hope is that we can continue this program, potentially with other before and after school programs and with other schools in the district.

The YMCA and the Rotary Club are hopeful that the program will serve as a positive change for the lives of students, both in the classroom and in their personal lives.
In the fast-paced world of business, having a visually appealing and functional website is crucial for success. However, the process of designing, shipping, and editing websites can often be time-consuming and complicated. This is where Scene comes in as a valuable business tool for high-performing agencies.

Features

Designed for stories, built for flexibility: Scene is a purpose-built tool that allows users to craft professional, story-driven websites without the usual complexities. Whether you are a seasoned designer or a novice, Scene provides the tools and features needed to create visually stunning websites with ease.

Build with AI copilot: Skip the blank canvas stage and let Scenes AI copilot, Muse, tackle the tedious tasks. This allows you to focus on what truly matters  your creativity and your clients. By streamlining the design process, Scene helps you save time and deliver high-quality results.

Keep styles & components consistent: With Scenes style manager, you can easily maintain consistency in your designs. From text to colors, Scenes drag-and-drop tools make it simple to unify styles and components across your website. This ensures a cohesive and polished look for your online presence.

Design once, adapt everywhere: Scene enables you to design for one screen and seamlessly align the layout for other devices. This responsive design approach allows you to make tweaks as needed, without starting from scratch. By designing once and adapting everywhere, you can save time and effort in website development.

Keep everything in one place: Centralize your designs and feedback within Scene to ensure that everyone is aligned and up to date. By keeping everything in one place, you can streamline collaboration and communication among team members, leading to a more efficient workflow.

Seamless publishing & updates: Say goodbye to the hassle of exporting and uploading your website. With Scene, you can go live instantly and roll back changes anytime if needed. This seamless publishing and updating process eliminates unnecessary steps, allowing you to focus on creating engaging content for your audience.

In conclusion, Scene is a valuable tool for businesses looking to enhance their website design and development process. Whether you are a small agency or a large corporation, Scenes features and capabilities can help you create visually appealing and functional websites that drive results. Consider integrating Scene into your workflow to streamline your website design process and achieve online success.

Pricing

Flexible pricing plans offered by Scene include:

Indie: Free forever for individuals

Pro: $30 per user per month for freelancers and small teams

Business: $350 per month billed annually for whole organizations, with an option for month-to-month payment at $420 per month.

Visit scene.io for more.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter , Facebook and Instagram.
The United Cerebral Palsy of Northwest Missouri hosted the 39th annual Chili Cookoff to offer St. Joseph residents the chance to taste some chili and help support a good cause.

The annual Chili Cookoff has been the UCPs only fundraiser for nearly four decades and has raised over $2 million in that time.

St. Joseph residents come by the hundreds to taste chili, dance, interact and support disabled children and adults in the Northwest Missouri region.

Employees at Nestle have participated for over twenty years not only to show off their chili cooking skills but also to show their continuous support for UCP.

Were a real big advocate for UCP, Nestle is, Nestle employee and cookoff participant Ashley Fox said. We also do it like throughout the year so we try to help out as much as we can.

Fox said her favorite part of the chili cookoff has always been interacting with and meeting new people.

I kind of like just meeting new people, this year seems a lot more teams (are participating) this year, she said.

There were plenty of people to interact with considering the over 60 teams participating in the competition and thousands of chili enthusiasts making their way through the tastings.

The chili cookoff also included several vendors and a silent auction to sweeten the day full of spice.

Those who wish to support UCP of Northwest Missouri outside of the chili cookoff can learn more about the organization and its mission on UCPs website at ucpnwmo.org.
CIRO gives investors the tools to protect themselves from a recent pattern of scams

TORONTO, March 3, 2025 /CNW/ - Approximately one in five Canadians have been approached with a possible investment fraud, according to the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization's Investor Survey. During Fraud Prevention Month, CIRO is warning Canadians about an emerging scam known as account intrusions.

A video about account intrusion scams

Account intrusions occur when criminals gain unauthorized access to online accounts through email, text messages, malicious links and apps. Once inside the investment account, fraudsters can execute trades and then transfer funds to their own (often untraceable and foreign) accounts or attempt to withdraw funds. These scams are sophisticatedinvolving urgent requests to update passwords under the pretense that they may already have been compromised or requests to click on links that are malicious. Making matters even worse, the fraudsters may impersonate real organizations' email addresses or website links.

CIRO's Fraud Prevention Month campaign aims to prevent account intrusions while arming investors with the tools to protect themselves. The Investor Survey also showed that of those who had been approached with possible investment fraud, most were contacted through unsolicited, spam emails, texts or calls from strangers, or messages on social media. The advice to investors is simple: "Stop and think before you click!"

"Through their gatekeeper obligations, dealers have assisted CIRO's Trade Review and Analysis Team in identifying an increase, or pattern, in these account intrusions," said Kevin McCoy, Senior Vice-President, Market Regulation, CIRO. "With the increased use of online DIY platforms and investors accessing their accounts on-the-fly on mobile devices, we felt it was important to flag this relatively sophisticated scam and provide meaningful tips for Canadian investors to help protect themselves."

CIRO's Office of the Investor Blueprint identifies fraud, scams and financial exploitation as a major theme and area of focus for the organization. Investment fraud and financial exploitation take a destructive toll on victims. While the financial cost to victims can be significant, the full impact often goes beyond lost money and includes stress, anxiety and depression.

CIRO's Office of the Investor team led the investor education and protection initiative through the production of a video, a cybersecurity checklist and the launch of a new seriesSchemes, Scams and Swindlesproviding fictionalized accounts based on real investor experiences with fraud and scams. The first story focusses on account intrusions and serves as a cautionary tale, bringing the experience to life for potential victims.

"Our Investor Survey also revealed that only 14% of those who were approached with a fraudulent scheme reported the incident. This campaign aims to educate investors and equip them with the knowledge and skills to identify account intrusion-type scams before they happen to them," said Karen McGuinness, Senior Vice-President, Finance, Investor and Member Relations.

Account Intrusions: Cybersecurity Checklist

The Account Intrusions: Cybersecurity Checklist gives Canadian investors quick tips and tricks for ensuring their online activities are safe and make it more difficult for would-be account intruders to access personal information and get into the investment account. The Checklist includes:

Verify the legitimacy of emails by checking the sender's email address and texts by contacting the sender through an alternate, official channel.





of emails by checking the sender's email address and texts by contacting the sender through an alternate, official channel. Verify links before you click them. Links can contain malware or viruses which will infect your device. If in doubt  always avoid. Hover over the link to see if the sender/website address matches what you expect.





Links can contain malware or viruses which will infect your device. If in doubt  always avoid. Hover over the link to see if the sender/website address matches what you expect. Always enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for your investment accounts.





for your investment accounts. Switch on your spam filter. This should prevent most spoofed emails from coming into your inbox.

Victim of an Account Intrusion?

If you believe you have been the victim of an account intrusion, contact your dealer immediately and report fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

About CIRO.

The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) is the national self-regulatory organization that oversees all investment dealers, mutual fund dealers and trading activity on Canada's debt and equity marketplaces. CIRO is committed to the protection of investors, providing efficient and consistent regulation, and building Canadians' trust in financial regulation and the people managing their investments. For more information, visit www.ciro.ca.

SOURCE Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO)

Interested in using the associated video, but need it in another format?; Media Contact: Kate Morris, Senior Specialist Corporate Communications and Public Affaires, [email protected]
Campus.Exchange will drive innovation and growth by providing companies with "No Wrong Door"

to partnering with academic institutions for custom training, research and advisory services

TORONTO, March 3, 2025 /CNW/ - To help businesses respond to current and looming economic challenges, eCampusOntario is partnering with the Business + Higher Education Roundtable and FutureFit AI to provide one-stop-shop access to its 53-member post-secondary institutions in Ontario to help businesses easily access workforce training, research support, and advanced technology adoption.

With 53 member postsecondary institutions in Ontario, eCampusOntario is well positioned to help businesses respond to current and looming economic challenges. Ontario's companies can take advantage of Campus.Exchange's basket of integrated, customized services to:

Create a more resilient and future-ready workforce through targeted upskilling

Accelerate product development, market expansion and intellectual property development

Benefit from earlier adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence

Innovate more confidently through advisory services and support

"Campus.Exchange is a strong step forward in reinforcing Ontario's business and higher education collaboration," said Robert Luke, CEO of eCampusOntario. "We know that a more accessible, trusted and integrated 'No Wrong Door' approach to enabling collaboration between industry and academia will pay dividends for companies, Ontario and Canada."

Higher education institutions are also facing their own unique difficulties and welcome opportunities to work with businesses to produce additional revenue, commercialize research and grow their market in skills training and development. Working together with industry is more critical than ever for postsecondary institutions and will strengthen Ontario's economy and enhance its resilience.

"Ontario's businesses are stretched thin and busy, especially SMEs. eCampusOntario's initiative will make it easier for businesses to find and access accredited skills development and training opportunities as well as world-class research partnerships and innovation supports," says Val Walker, CEO of the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER). "At BHER, we're thrilled to support solutions like this one that foster more business + higher education collaboration."

Campus.Exchange will be powered by FutureFit AI, the technology partner for the initiative, ensuring seamless connections between businesses and academic institutions.

"We're excited about the potential of Campus.Exchange to transform Ontario's workforce through targeted training and upskilling programs to solve critical business talent needs," said Hamoon Ekhtiari, Founder and CEO of FutureFit AI. "Campus.Exchange will bring together a wealth of skills development experience, resources, and courses from Ontario's incredible postsecondary institutions and facilitate an accessible and custom way for businesses to tap into those programs."

About Campus.Exchange

An initiative of eCampusOntario, Campus.Exchange links businesses and academia to boost collaboration, innovation and resilience. Designed as a custom "campus-in-a-company," Campus.Exchange brings Ontario's postsecondary sector and business sector together to provide companies with workforce training, research and commercialization partnerships, advanced technology adoption, and advisory services. Find out more: https://campus.exchange

About eCampusOntario:

eCampusOntario is a provincially-funded not-for-profit organization that supports innovation, collaboration and education in Ontario's Indigenous institutes, colleges and universities. eCampusOntario provides the sector with platforms, programs and services to advance digital participation in postsecondary education, connecting Ontario's postsecondary institutions and learners to the future of learning and the future of work.

Additional Quotes:

Colleges Ontario

"Colleges are proud of their vital role in assuring a continuous workforce with in-demand qualifications and expertise. Campus.Exchange will be a valuable tool in helping us partner with businesses looking for custom skills development, as well as applied research support," said Maureen Adamson, Interim President and CEO of Colleges Ontario. "Campus.Exchange provides a new way for academia and industry to innovate together, and Colleges Ontario is pleased support eCampusOntario in this important endeavour."

Council of Ontario Universities

"Ontario's universities have a long history of collaborating with industry to drive innovation and economic growth. Campus.Exchange builds on that tradition by creating new opportunities for businesses and universities to work together in meaningful ways," said Steve Orsini, President and CEO of the Council of Ontario Universities. "By strengthening these connections, we're fostering innovation, developing talent and helping to build a more competitive and resilient economy."

Indigenous Institutions Consortium

"Collaboration and innovation have always been at the heart of our way of working, and we are pleased to support eCampusOntario's new Campus.Exchange initiative," said Marsha Josephs, Executive Director of the Indigenous Institutes Consortium. "Ensuring that our seven members institutions are participants in this effort will contribute to a strong inclusive economy, where all Peoples, communities, Indigenous Institutes, and businesses can thrive."

Riipen

"At Riipen, we're bridging the gap between industry and higher education to create impactful, real-world learning collaborations, " says Dana Stephenson, Co-Founder and CEO of Riipen. "Through our partnership with eCampusOntario, learners from 30 institutions have collaborated with nearly 600 companies, completing more than 1,200 industry projects in 2024. The launch of Campus.Exchange marks a significant step toward a more connected, future-ready workforce, driving innovation, skills development, and economic growth."

SOURCE eCampusOntario

For media inquiries or more information about Campus.Exchange, please contact: Jason Northway-Frank, Senior Manager, Governance and Public Relations, eCampusOntario, [email protected]
Association's digital campaign will help educate Canadians on recognizing and preventing fraud

OTTAWA, ON, March 3, 2025 /CNW/ - The Canadian Telecommunications Association is launching a new digital campaign for Fraud Prevention Month to help consumers recognize and protect themselves from fraud. Throughout March, the Let's Fight Fraud Together campaign will highlight how telecom providers are working to protect consumers and provide practical steps that individuals can take to safeguard their personal and financial information.

Lets Fight Fraud Together: Canadian Telecommunications Association Launches National Anti-Fraud Campaign for Fraud Prevention Month (CNW Group/Canadian Telecommunications Association)

The campaign will feature digital ads across leading online platforms, raising awareness about fraud and directing Canadians to visit canadatelecoms.ca/anti-fraud for more information about identifying potential fraud, securing devices and accounts, and reporting scams.

"Fraud is a global issue that affects many industries, and telecom providers are committed to helping protect Canadians by investing in advanced network security, educating consumers, and working closely with law enforcement," said Robert Ghiz, President and CEO of the Canadian Telecommunications Association. "However, the changing nature of scams also requires consumers to remain vigilant. This campaign is designed to empower Canadians with knowledge they need to stay safe from fraud."

The Canadian telecommunications industry is actively working to combat fraud through a combination of network security investments, consumer education, and partnerships with law enforcement. Some of the key initiatives include: call blocking and caller ID authentication, spam and scam filtering, employing in-house fraud prevention teams, and collaborating with law enforcement.

There are also actions individuals should take to help protect their personal and financial information. Some key best practices consumers should follow to reduce their risk of falling victim to fraud include:

Be cautious of unsolicited messages and calls

Use strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Verify websites and links before clicking

Be aware of activity on your accounts

Report suspicious activity.

For more details and additional fraud prevention tips and best practices, visit canadatelecoms.ca/anti-fraud.

About the Canadian Telecommunications Association

The Canadian Telecommunications Association is dedicated to building a better future for Canadians through connectivity. Our members include service providers, equipment manufacturers, and other organizations in the telecommunications ecosystem, that invest in, build, maintain and operate Canada's world-class telecommunications networks. Through our advocacy initiatives, research, and events, we work to promote the importance of telecommunications to Canada's economic growth and social development and advocate for policies that foster investment, innovation, and positive outcomes for consumers. We also facilitate industry initiatives, such as the Mobile Giving Foundation Canada, Canadian Common Short Codes, STAC and wirelessaccessibility.ca.

SOURCE Canadian Telecommunications Association

Media Inquiries: Canadian Telecommunications Association, Nick Kyonka, [email protected]
OTTAWA, ON, March 3, 2025 /CNW/ - After 15 years of trailblazing urban agriculture in Montreal, Lufa Farms is excited to announce its expansion to Ottawa as of March 4th, 2025. Known for building the world's first and largest commercial rooftop greenhouses along with delivering fresh, local produce and groceries, Lufa Farms is bringing their innovative approach to sustainable food production and delivery to the nation's capital.

Lufa Farms takes on the countrys capital, bringing their first basket of fresh, local, responsible products to Parliament Hill. (CNW Group/Lufa Farms Inc.)

Since 2010, Lufa Farms has been redefining urban agriculture with state-of-the-art rooftop greenhouses that grow a wide variety of vegetables including tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and peppers - all free from synthetic pesticides. They produce unbeatable fresh local vegetables with minimal environmental impact using a closed-loop hydroponic system.

"We've been looking forward to expanding to Ottawa for a long time," said CEO Mohamed Hage. "Ottawa is a city that truly values food autonomy and sustainability. We're thrilled to share our fresh vegetables and an incredible selection of local products with families here."

As part of the expansion, the Ottawa community will gain access to Lufa Farms' online Marketplace, featuring over 2,000 products from more than 450 trusted farmers and food makers. From fresh greens and organic cheeses to artisanal baked goods and responsibly sourced meats, everything is delivered straight to residents' doorsteps six days a week - ensuring unbeatable freshness and convenience.

"I had the opportunity to visit Lufa Farms in Montreal and witness firsthand their commitment to local, sustainable food production," said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change of Canada. "Their expansion to Ottawa is great news - more Canadians will have access to fresh, local products that offer both convenience and quality. This is a win for the environment, food security, and Canadian producers!"

Key Facts About Lufa Farms:

Harvest-to-door in under 24 hours: Vegetables are delivered less than a day after being picked.

Vegetables are delivered less than a day after being picked. Grown without synthetic pesticides: All produce is cultivated in hydroponic greenhouses and certified pesticide-free.

All produce is cultivated in hydroponic greenhouses and certified pesticide-free. Local and sustainable: Delivering within a 3-hour radius of Montreal , including Ottawa , to keep food close to home.

Delivering within a 3-hour radius of , including , to keep food close to home. A bounty of choices: With over 2,000 products from local farmers and foodmakers.

With over 2,000 products from local farmers and foodmakers. Flexible and easy: Choose your delivery day, pause when needed, or cancel anytime - a service tailored to fit your life.

Lufa Farms is proud to join Ottawa's vibrant food community, providing fresh, local produce while supporting sustainable farming practices and food autonomy.

LUFA FARMS

Lufa Farms' mission is to create a better food system by growing food sustainably on city rooftops and partnering with hundreds of farmers and food makers, to provide customers with fresh, local, responsible food via their online Marketplace. For more information about Lufa Farms, please visit their website .

SOURCE Lufa Farms Inc.

Emily Peloquin, PR & communications coordinator, Email: [email protected], Cell: 514-655-3298
AI spending is huge and it is sustainable and has indications that it is profitable spending.

Returns are from AI are being seen. The smaller spending from 2 years ago sees a lag in returns but adjusting for lag shows profits.

Pascals Wager Applied (CEOs Believe in Godlike AI)

Invest and AI Succeeds: Huge payoffcompetitive advantage, innovation leadership, and returns on investment (e.g., breakthroughs in compute-intensive tasks like drug discovery or climate modeling). The cost of building data centers is dwarfed by the benefits.

Invest and AI Fails: Loss of capitalmoney spent on infrastructure, energy, and maintenance yields little return. The cost is significant but finite.

Dont Invest and AI Succeeds: Missed opportunitycompetitors or other nations dominate, and youre left behind in a potentially world-altering technological shift. The regret and strategic disadvantage could be catastrophic.

Dont Invest and AI Fails: Minimal lossyou save resources and avoid a sunk cost, but theres no gain either.

The BG2 podcast (with semiconductor , AI analyst Dylan Patel) describe the AI investment.

This was an AI scaling and spending discussed by multi-billion fund managers Bill Gurley and Brad Gerster with top AI analyst Dylan Patel.

Free cashflows from Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, Google and other are going into AI data centers and AI research.

There is a discussion of capex spending of hyperscalers ( the capex investment part of the discussion of BG2).

Gurleys broader narrative aligns with analyses from sources like Morgan Stanley and DellOro Group, which project hyperscaler CapEx reaching $300$335 billion in 2025, largely driven by AI. For instance, Morgan Stanleys updated forecasts (reported February 20, 2025, via Datacenter Dynamics) estimate Amazon and Microsoft leading with $96.4 billion and $89.9 billion, respectively, in 2025 CapEx, with AI infrastructure as a primary driver. Gurleys discussions in prior years suggest he views this as a strategic necessity.

$320 billion in spending from the top four companies in 2025 CapEx projections:

 Amazon  $100 billion, up from $83 billion in 2024

 Microsoft  $80-90 billion, up from $55 billion

 Google  $75 billion, up from $52.5 billion

 Meta  $65 billion, an increase from $39 billion

XAI is raising $10 billion at $75 billion valuation. XAI will successfully raise and then will raise again. My estimate $30-40 billion at $200-300 billion valuation later in 2025.

XAI will build and is building for Grok 4. In the first two months of 2025 XAI already has 2.5X the Grok 3 100K H100s compute cluster. Chips and energy already installed for the 200K chips. The natural gas turbines to double power is already bought and is installing. This 2025 build is committed and will happen, fundraising is certain. My projection of the 400K GPU expansion is purchased is installing (power and chips) 3 months.

The 1M GPU will be installed (another 600K chips) and 1.2 GW (another 700 MW) will get money and built by the end of 2025. Bets are being made without waiting to see results or returns from prior bets. Pascals AI wager.

Big Tech CEOs See Value

For the OctoberDecember 2024 quarter, Microsoft reported a 10% increase in profit and a 12% revenue increase to $69.6 billion, with earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) up 17%. CEO Satya Nadella noted that the AI business surpassed a $13 billion annual revenue run rate, up 175% year-over-year, suggesting significant topline growth driven by AI. [AI Is paying now and paying off more, but the landgrab and competition forces putting all winnings and more ahead of the growing payoff rate]

Cash Flow Resilience: Even with the CapEx surge, Microsoft generated $74.07 billion in free cash flow in fiscal 2024, up 24.5%, indicating that its financial health remains robust despite the spending.

Googles AI investments are showing early returns, with over 25% of new code generated by AI internally, boosting operational efficiency. Cloud growth is partly attributed to accelerated growth in AI products, indicating some monetization success.

Meta integrates AI into its platforms. The rapid uptake of AI tools by advertisers (4 million users, up from 1 million in six months) shows real-time returns, particularly in ad targeting. Analysts like JPMorgans Doug Anmuth note that the return on AI investments is more apparent in Metas core advertising business than in Googles cloud.

Value of AI investment, the $20 billion investment 2 years ago results in $10 billion per year on average for the next 3 years. They are getting positive return BUT they are reloading with $80-90 billion now which could pay off with $30-50 billion per year for 3 years. But they will go with more investment at $150 billion per year in 2027-2028.

Deepseek is claiming 85% margins. $200 million per year.

Hyperscaler and other AI companies can and will also tap into the sovereign wealth funds.

The dot.com era Internet and Cisco and network spend had a delay in the payoff after the temporary overbuild. But those ended up paying off.

2024 FCF: The Magnificent 7 collectively generated an estimated $350400 billion in free cash flow in 2024, with approximate individual contributions as follows (based on the most recent data):

Apple: ~$108.8 billion

Microsoft: ~$74.1 billion

Alphabet: ~$72.8 billion

Meta: ~$54.1 billion

Amazon: ~$50.1 billion

NVIDIA: ~$39.2 billion

Tesla: ~$3.5 billion (quarterly annualized is $8-9 billion)

All the free cashflow is after R&D and capex.

2026 is when the current bets and spending must payoff. My calculations and Dylan is that the models will get better and payoff. But my prediction is that XAI and Tesla could get better AI and better returns. So the fact that the total investments should pay, returns will not be equal.

Dylan at 1 hour 24 says they (Big Tech) will take free cashflow to zero by increasing AI spending.

If this happened for Microsoft, then it would mean increasing AI and research to about $250-300 billion from Microsoft alone. The 15% per year growth in revenue and net income could support the growing investment shown below.

The other BIG tech companies have similar growth rates and combined they will be able to head to over $1 trillion per year in AI spend / data center capex spend. This would be a sustainable use of free cashflow generated by growing businesses.

2024. Microsoft claimed $13 billion in annualized AI revenue with 175% growth

2025. Microsoft AI business should be $26-39 billion (100%-200% growth).

2026. Microsoft AI business should be $52-129 billion (100%-200% growth).

2027. Microsoft AI business should be $104-390 billion (100%-200% growth).

2028. Microsoft AI business should be $208-1170 billion (100%-200% growth).

2029. Microsoft AI business should be $416-3400 billion (100%-200% growth).

The Tech giants have been dropping $50 billion per year into R&D and sometimes getting returns and sometimes not. They have been willing to make those bets every year no matter what.

The possibility of trillions per year and the near assurance of the destruction of their existing businesses if they cannot compete with AI forces the spending.

Apple is following a second mover strategy combined with attempts to partner with winners and a vastly reduced AI spend strategy.
Weather Alert

Take action to protect yourself and others  extreme heat can affect everyones health. Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness. Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day. Watch for the early signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. Signs may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. Stop your activity and drink water. Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 9-1-1 or your emergency health provider if you, or someone around you, is showing signs of heat stroke which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness. While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body. Drink water often and before you feel thirsty to replace fluids. Close blinds, or shades and open windows if outside is cooler than inside. Turn on air conditioning, use a fan, or move to a cooler area of your living space. If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park. Follow the advice of your regions public health authority. Plan and schedule outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day. Limit direct exposure to the sun and heat. Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Never leave people, especially children, or pets inside a parked vehicle. Check the vehicle before locking to make sure no one is left behind. Humidex values reaching 40 are expected. A heat event is expected this weekend. What: Daytime highs of 31 to 33 degrees Celsius and a humidex of 40. Overnight lows of 21 to 25 degrees Celsius, providing little relief from the heat. When: Today to Sunday, coming to an end Sunday night. Additional information: Hot and humid air can also bring deteriorating air quality and result in the Air Quality Health Index approaching the high risk category. ### For more information: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/climate-change-health/extreme-heat/how-protect-yourself.html https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/climate-change-health/extreme-heat/who-is-at-risk.html Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. To report severe weather, send an email to ONstorm@ec.gc.ca or post reports on X using #ONStorm.
Catherine Wu, long-time adviser to Singaporean billionaire Kwek Leng Beng, at the GEEKCON 2024 International. Photo from GEEKCON's website

Catherine Wu, who is at the center of a high-profile boardroom dispute at property giant City Developments Limited between its executive chairman Kwek Leng Beng and his CEO son, serves as the tycoon's "eyes and ears".

On Feb. 25, Kwek, 84, filed a lawsuit against his son, CDL CEO Sherman Kwek, 49, and several board members, accusing them of governance lapses and an "attempted coup" to consolidate control.

In response, Sherman alleged that Wu was the root cause of the conflict, claiming she had been "interfering in matters well beyond her scope" and wielding "enormous influence" over his father.

Wu, 65, has known Kwek for 33 years, first meeting him in 1992 at a dinner party in Taiwan, which she likened to a job interview.

Her diverse backgroundincluding a PhD in music education, roles as a TV host, and a recording careerhad likely intrigued the business tycoon, she told Singapores Lianhe Zaobao.

Born in Taiwan, Wu was sent to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music at age 15 and later earned a masters degree in piano performance from The Juilliard School in 1982, followed by a doctorate from New York University.

After spending 15 years in the U.S., she returned to Taiwan, where she released several albums, hosted a popular music TV program, and presented the 1997 Golden Melody Awards.

Wu's relationship with Kwek has drawn scrutiny in the past. In a 2018 employment tribunal case in London, she was described as Kweks personal assistant, though she was not formally employed by CDL and was paid personally by the chairman, according to Malay Mail.

Court documents stated she acted as his "eyes and ears" due to his advancing age.

"Dr Wu assists the chairman. Due to his age (then in his 70s) she acts as his eyes and ears on the ground," the documents stated.

"Dr Wu travels to... properties across the world, sometimes with the chairman and sometimes alone; the cost of her travel is paid by the chairman and not the company."

In a 2023 interview with Lianhe Zaobao, Wu detailed her role in CDL, saying she had accompanied Kwek for decades to meetings, site inspections, and hotel renovations.

Wu attended a major CDL event in 2024 alongside Kwek and his wife, Cecilia Kwek, in what The Straits Times reported as an "awkward encounter." She was seen greeting dignitaries, including government officials, while attendees observed uneasily.

Sources close to CDL told The Straits Times that Wu has recently increased her public presence, often appearing at events where Cecilia is also present.

However, Wu has expanded her portfolio beyond CDL. She is now secretary-general of GeekCon International, an initiative of Dark Navy, an independent security research institute.

In 2023, she introduced the GeekCon International Cybersecurity Conference to Singapore, with Kwek serving as its honorary consultant, according to The Business Times.
A pair of disturbing assaults at two Woodstock high schools has led to charges against two teenagers and serious injuries for two victims.A young offender has been charged with assault as the result of an incident at Huron Park Secondary School where a student was attacked and received serious but non-life-threatening injuries. There was an attack with a pipe and a charge of aggregated assault with a weapon laid. The suspect is in custody but I cant release the name as it is protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, explained Woodstock Police Detective Jamie Taylor. Sources tell the Echo the assault was a case of student-on-student and the injuries were very serious and extensive. A video of the incident was also circulating on social media. The Criminal Code of Canada describes aggravated assault as someone who wounds, maims, disfigures or endangers the life of the complainant. Every one who commits an aggravated assault is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding fourteen years. A minor could potentially be tried as an adult and face the same sentence. The Echo reached out to the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) and asked to interview someone regarding the two disturbing acts of violence in Woodstock. Instead, a very brief statement was provided. We are aware of an incident at Huron Park Secondary School earlier this month and Thames Valley District School Board is cooperating with Woodstock Police Service. As this is now a police investigation, we would encourage you to contact Woodstock Police Service for more information and updates. The Echo received another report of a recent violent assault at Woodstocks College Avenue Secondary School. A parent reached out and provided a video of the incident which showed one male student beating the victim until he was incapacitated on a hallway floor. Inspector Taylor said another young offender was charged with assault. The video shows what appears to be a teacher yelling stop but no students stepped in to help either during or after the one-sided beating. Several could be seen videoing the incident with cell phones. The parent who reached out to the Echo said more needs to be done. I would absolutely love to see a police presence in schools. My daughter was afraid she would be jumped. It is scary sending her to school. The parent added the student charged in the case is back in class. We followed up with the TVDSBs communications department and board chair Beth Mai after a report of the second assault but did not receive a response by press time. Rebecca Avey is the President of CUPE Local 7575 representing Educational Assistants and Student Supervisors of the Thames Valley District School Board. She said Ontarios education system is in a crisis. The reality is scary. Schools are facing significant understaffing, and significant cuts to per pupil funding. Violence in schools is at an all-time high. Student and educators supports are at an all-time low. Communities are exhausted and feeling the impact of massive cuts. Avey said she is hearing from her members that over 80 per cent of them have experienced violent or disruptive incidents in their workplace. Over 40 per cent experience violent incidents every day, she added. When asked if the CUPE would like to see police in area high schools, Avey said that is just one part of the solution. Ultimately, were in favour of anything that would keep people safe. However, we feel like a policing program is a band-aid and its a blame on students, although ultimately, they are or should be responsible for their actions. The grassroots underlying issues cannot be fixed with policing. It can only be fixed with proper funding, proper programming, resources and adequate staffing.
View of a shuttered Great Wall Park compound where Cambodian authorities said they had recovered evidence of human trafficking, kidnapping and torture during raids on suspected cybercrime compounds in the coastal city of Sihanoukville, Cambodia, Sept. 21, 2022. Photo by Reuters

Cambodian authorities have deported 119 Thai citizens, including 58 women, who had entered and worked illegally in the country.

The group was sent back to Thailand via the Poipet border checkpoint on March 1, following their arrests in raids conducted on Feb. 22-23, the Cambodian National Police General Directorate announced.

The detained Thais admitted to crossing into Cambodia illegally to engage in online criminal activities, drawn by promises of high wages.

In a related development, 84 Indonesians, including 15 women, who were freed from scam centers in Myanmar, arrived in Jakarta on Feb. 28 as part of a large-scale repatriation effort.

They were among more than 7,000 people held in the Myanmar border town of Myawaddy, following a joint crackdown on scam operations by authorities from Thailand, Myanmar, and China.

Online scam operations have long thrived in Myanmar's border regions, luring foreign workers with high-paying job offers. Myanmar's recent crackdown led to the rescue of workers from over 20 countries.
Street Interview: Topics of concern at this year's 'two sessions'

(People's Daily App) 15:41, March 03, 2025

As China's annual "two sessions" approach, we interviewed locals and foreigners in Beijing to find out what topics they are most concerned about. "Two sessions" refers to the annual meetings of the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). The NPC is the highest organ of State power, while the CPPCC is China's top political advisory body. This year, the CPPCC session will begin on March 4, followed by the NPC session on March 5.

(Produced by Lin Rui, Li Han, Guo Xuenan, Li Ruojia, Chen Yuxi, Li Weixu and Wang Jingjing)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Vietnam bets on 5G expansion to fuel economic growth

Vietnam is ramping up 5G expansion under a new government directive aimed at boosting digital infrastructure and driving economic growth.

Visitors attend the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain. Photo by Reuters

Directive No. 05 on economic growth solutions, issued by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on March 1, describes digital transformation, innovation and advanced technology as key economic drivers.

It calls for a digital shift across all sectors, leveraging science, technology and data while ensuring cybersecurity.

"The Ministry of Science and Technology must accelerate 5G commercialization, research 6G technology, develop telecommunications satellites, and upgrade national infrastructure.

"Expanding investment in high-speed fixed broadband infrastructure is also essential."

Vietnams digital infrastructure strategy for 2025 says "digital infrastructure is the foundation of the economy," with telecommunications and the Internet as key components.

The strategy aims for 100% of provinces, cities, high-tech parks, IT hubs, R&D centers, innovation zones, industrial areas, train stations, seaports, and airports to have 5G mobile services by 2025.

Military-owned telecom provider Viettel started rolling out 5G in all 63 provinces and cities in October 2024, and VNPT followed suit in December.

However, coverage remains limited, with only a few thousand base stations compared to nationwide 4G networks. As of January 2025 Viettel had 5.5 million 5G users.

Meanwhile, Resolution No. 193, issued by the National Assembly on Feb. 19, addresses pilot mechanisms and special policies to drive breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation.

It also introduces financial support for businesses to accelerate 5G deployment.

Telecom firms that establish at least 20,000 certified 5G base stations between the resolutions effective date and Dec. 31 2025, will receive a 15% subsidy on equipment costs.
An Atlantic County man was found dead at a South Jersey apartment complex Sunday, authorities said.

Township police were called to the Hamilton Greene Apartments off the Black Horse Pike in Hamilton for a shooting. They found Kevin Schmalz, 28, of the Mays Landing section of Hamilton, dead from a gunshot wound, the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office said.

The discovery was made around 7:21 a.m. after the shooting was reported to 911, the office said. No threat to the public was identified Sunday.

The prosecutors office did not immediately return a request from NJ Advance Media for comment Monday.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the prosecutors offices major crimes unit at 609-909-7666. Tips can also be shared with investigators through the agencys website.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com.
Mikey Madison as Ani in "Anora." The 2025 best picture winner was written and directed by New Jersey's Sean Baker. Neon

An exhilarating Cinderella story that sees its heroine fall from a great height just reached the pinnacle of Hollywood recognition.

Anora" has won the 2025 Oscar for best picture, one of five Academy Awards it took home Sunday.

New Jerseys Sean Baker wrote, directed and produced the film, the most successful of his movies about sex workers.

The best picture win made Baker the first Academy Award winner to win four awards for the same film in a single Oscars ceremony.

I wanna thank the Academy for recognizing a truly independent film, Baker said, accepting the nights top award. This film was made on the blood, sweat and tears of incredible indie artists. Long live independent film.

He took the stage not long after he won the Oscar for best director and gave a passionate speech about supporting movie theaters and the theatergoing experience.

Anora, which was nominated for six Oscars at the 97th Academy Awards, stars Mikey Madison as Anora Ani Mikeehva, a Brooklyn sex worker who meets Ivan Vanya Zakharov, the son of a Russian oligarch played by Russian actor Mark Eydelshteyn.

Baker won his first Oscar Sunday for best original screenplay for Anora, followed by best director and best editing. Not many directors edit their own movies.

Madison, 25, won her first Oscar for best actress, besting a pool of talent that included Demi Moore, Cynthia Erivo, Fernanda Torres and Karla Sofia Gascon.

Baker shares the best picture win with his fellow producers Samantha Quan  his wife  and Alex Coco.

Hi, I dont know how this can be real life, Quan said in her speech. This is really an incredible, impossible journey for the past 10 months.

We made this with very little money but all of our hearts, she said. To all the dreamers and the young filmmakers out there, tell the stories you wanna tell. Tell the stories that move you. I promise you, you will never regret it.

Coco said they made Anora for $6 million with a crew of just 40 people.

If youre trying to make independent films, please keep doing it, we need more, he said. This is proof.

READ MORE: Sean Baker wins Oscar for best director for Anora. Indie film champion is from N.J.

Walt Disney also won four Oscars in a single ceremony in 1954, but unlike Baker, he didnt win them for the same movie (they were all different films).

Baker, an indie auteur who launched his film career 25 years ago, has drawn the most attention by far for Anora, which received a huge push this awards season after its Palme dOr win at the Cannes Film Festival in May.

In the movie, young Ani and Vanya have a funny and charming whirlwind romance. They toast to the good life in Las Vegas and take it so far that they decide to get hitched.

But Anis Cinderella story comes crashing down when Vanyas parents learn of the marriage and her new husband flees their hired muscle.

Writer, director and producer Sean Baker on the "Anora" set with Madison and her co-star Mark Eydelshteyn. Neon

Baker, who was born in Summit and grew up in Short Hills and Branchburg, wrote the movie for Madison after seeing her in Scream (2022) and Quentin Tarantinos Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019).

Baker spoke with NJ Advance Media about Anora in October, as the film started to expand in theaters and anticipation grew for Oscar nominations.

I always thought Oh, OK, so we won the Palme dOr. I can now just sleep nicely at night, the director said with a laugh at the time.

READ MORE: With Anora, Sean Bakers moment has arrived. N.J. director on the movie eyeing Oscar gold (interview).

I never really thought about this and I didnt think forward to the release and the possible campaign, said Baker, 54. And so its nice that its playing out this way, and especially for my cast and crew. Mikey is getting a lot of attention and thats really all I care about. I dont care about my own stuff, quite honestly. I care about my cast and crew getting the recognition they deserve ... so if Mikey is on her way to possibly being recognized by the Academy, hey, that would be incredible, incredible.

Eydelshteyn and Madison work their magic as Vanya and Ani. Neon

Baker started thinking about the seed of what would become Anora many years ago after conversations with his longtime friend Karren Karagulian, who has appeared in all of his films. He wanted to set a story in the Russian American community of Brooklyns Brighton Beach and Coney Island neighborhoods.

Most of Bakers films, including Tangerine (2015), Red Rocket (2021), The Florida Project (2017) and Starlet (2012), follow sex workers in ways that do not malign, but center and humanize the characters.

While The Florida Project received an Oscar nomination for Willem Dafoe, this is the first time one of Bakers films has been recognized so broadly at the Oscars.

Vache Tovmasyan and Yura Borisov in "Anora." Neon

Russian actor Yura Borisov, who plays hired muscle Igor, a character sent to confront Ani and Vanya, was also nominated for best supporting actor.

Anora, from the distributor Neon, wins best picture over Conclave, The Brutalist, Dune Part 2, Nickel Boys, Wicked, Im Still Here, Emilia Perez, The Substance and A Complete Unknown.

Anora previously won best feature at the Film Independent Spirit Awards, where the director, a self-described indie film lifer, delivered an impassioned speech calling for film studios and Hollywood to support indie filmmakers.

Baker won best director at the Independent Spirit Awards and Madison won best lead performance.

Anora also won best picture at the Critics Choice Awards.

Its awards season haul has included best actress for Madison and best casting for Baker and Quan at the BAFTAs; best feature film for Baker at the Directors Guild of America Awards; best original screenplay for Baker at the Writers Guild Awards; and outstanding producer of theatrical motion pictures for Baker, Quan and Coco at the Producers Guild of America Awards.

Anora, rated R, runs 2 hours and 18 minutes and is available to watch on demand.

Thank you for reading. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

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Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci in "Conclave." The movie, set at the Vatican in Rome, had some Jersey talent behind the scenes. Focus Features

A tightly composed story of papal intrigue has won the 2025 Oscar for best adapted screenplay.

Conclave, a political thriller set at the Vatican during the selection of a new pope, wins the Academy Award.

Its the first Oscar for British screenwriter Peter Straughan, who was previously nominated in the same category for Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy with co-writer Bridget OConnor, his late wife, in 2012.

Conclave was nominated for eight Oscars at the 97th Academy Awards.

The Focus Features film, directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front) and starring an ensemble cast led by English Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes, has a New Jersey connection through producer Michael Jackman, who lives in Westfield.

Jackman spent six months living in Rome during the making of the film, he told NJ Advance Media in a recent interview.

Fiennes with "Conclave" director Edward Berger. Philippe Antonello | Focus Features

He is nominated for the Oscar for best picture alongside his fellow Conclave producers Tessa Ross and Juliette Howell from the United Kingdom.

Jackman said Ross and Howell optioned the 2016 Robert Harris novel Conclave after reading just three chapters and hired Straughan to adapt the story for film.

READ MORE: Inside Conclave with N.J. producer behind Oscar-nominated movie winning awards

Berger, the director and the actors sought for the cast were very responsive to the tale of a pressure cooker atmosphere following the sudden death of a pope.

If you have something wonderful to read, it certainly opens those doors, Jackman, 62, told NJ Advance Media.

Producer Michael Jackman with "Conclave" star Isabella Rossellini. Geoff Robins | AFP via Getty Images

The producer was born in New York and lived in Paramus during his early childhood before growing up in Cambridge, Massachusetts, eventually moving back to New Jersey and settling in Westfield with his family.

Conclave won best picture at the BAFTAs in London last month as well as best British film. Straughans pre-Oscars awards haul was particularly significant, having won best adapted screenplay at the BAFTAs, Critics Choice Awards and Golden Globes.

Conclave also won outstanding performance by a cast in a motion picture at the Screen Actors Guild Awards.

Jackman had high praise for the cast.

There isnt a whole lot that Ralph cant do, he told NJ Advance Media of Fiennes, who received his third Oscar nomination for playing Cardinal Thomas Lawrence in the film. Hes so talented, hes so committed to a role. He takes parts that really appeal to him, that he can connect with, but I feel like he could probably connect with anything.

Isabella Rossellini received her first Oscar nomination for best supporting actress for playing Sister Agnes in the movie.

I think I may have been more excited that Isabella was nominated than that I was nominated, Jackman said. Her performance was just brilliant, but shes also so lovely.

Isabella Rossellini as Sister Agnes in "Conclave." Focus Features

The cast also includes Oscar nominees Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow, Zimbabwean actor Lucian Msamati, Italian actor Sergio Castellitto and Mexican actor Carlos Diehz in his film debut.

Casting director Nina Gold conducted a worldwide search for the role of Cardinal Vincent Benitez and made quite the discovery in Diehz, who lives in Vancouver.

He had something just very natural about him, Jackman told NJ Advance Media.

We wanted someone that not only would the audience not know, but that our other actors wouldnt know, someone that would come to the table with just something new.

Carlos Diehz makes his film debut in "Conclave" as Cardinal Vincent Benitez. FF

The elaborate Conclave set included a recreation of the Sistine Chapel built at the Cinecitta movie studio in Rome.

We built the walls of the side about 45 feet high, and in the front and back about 60 feet, so that we had (Michelangelos) 'The (Last) Judgment' in front of everyone and Ralph could look up and see that, as could all the other cardinals," Jackman told NJ Advance Media. That was kind of a special thing, because you really felt the size of that room. Its meant to make the cardinals think, thats what its there for.

The Oscar win for Conclave arrives not long after the real pope, Pope Francis, suffered respiratory distress.

Conclave, rated PG, is streaming on Peacock and available on demand.

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Kieran Culkin is taking home his first Oscar for his performance in the Jesse Eisenberg film A Real Pain.

Culkin, who was a favorite to win best supporting actor heading into the 97th Academy Awards Sunday, has consistently won accolades for the role throughout awards season.

His previous wins for A Real Pain include a Golden Globe, Critics Choice Award, BAFTA Award and Film Independent Spirit Award.

Culkin wins best supporting actor at the 2025 Oscars for playing Benji Kaplan, one half of a pair of American cousins who travel to Poland to honor the wishes of their late grandmother.

Culkin, 42, stars alongside Eisenberg, 41, who grew up in East Brunswick and wrote and directed the film.

READ MORE: N.J.s Jesse Eisenberg talks A Real Pain, inherited trauma and his family promise

Thank you for this movie, he told Eisenberg in his Oscars acceptance speech Sunday. Youre a genius. I would never say that to your face, Im never saying it again, so soak it up.

Culkin also made a callback to his winning speech at the Emmys, when he said that his wife, Jazz Charton, had promised him a third child if he won. At the time, he told her from the stage that he wanted that third child. Charton apparently got some unwanted attention over the remark.

Turns out she said that because she didnt think I was gonna win, he said.

But Culkin later told her that he actually wanted four kids. With that, Charton made another promise.

She said I will give you four when you win an Oscar, Culkin said with a smile.

His character in A Real Pain, Benji Kaplan, is an unpredictable, outwardly emotional person, while Eisenbergs David Kaplan is his buttoned-up, more reserved relative.

Culkin is charismatic and a magnet for attention as Benji, a chaotic member of their Holocaust history tour group in Poland. He also wears his pain on his sleeve and is known to create a scene, leaving his cousin David to clean up after him.

Eisenberg, who wrote and directed the movie, filmed with Culkin at his great-aunt's real former home in Poland. Agata Grzybowska | Searchlight Pictures

Eisenberg spoke to NJ Advance Media about A Real Pain before the November release of the Searchlight Pictures film.

He said Culkins performance astounded him.

When I first started watching him, I guess I was just immediately struck by this guy, this actor, who I had literally never spoken to about the role  we never talked about the character  and he started performing it, and I just remember thinking hes doing exactly what was in my mind for the last three years, Eisenberg said.

He was just to a tee performing every aspect of it, what was charming about it, what was antagonistic about it, what was really sad about it, what was rageful about it, all the stuff that I was hoping would come through with that character.

Eisenberg, who was nominated for the Oscar for best original screenplay for A Real Pain, won the same award at the BAFTAs and best screenplay at the Film Independent Spirit Awards in February.

He took inspiration for his real family history in Poland to write the story. He and Culkin filmed at his real great-aunts old home in Krasnystaw, Poland.

Like Eisenberg, Culkin, an Emmy winner for his performance as Roman Roy in Succession, started as a child actor. He made his film debut acting alongside his brother Macaulay Culkin in Home Alone (1990).

Culkin and Eisenberg both started as child actors. Searchlight Pictures

This was Culkins first Oscar nomination.

In 2003, he was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in the movie Igby Goes Down, winning a Critics Choice Award for best young actor.

Culkin wins the Oscar for best supporting actor over Yura Borisov in Anora, Guy Pearce in The Brutalist, his Succession co-star Jeremy Strong in The Apprentice and Edward Norton in A Complete Unknown.

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Mikey Madison, the breakout star of Anora, has won the 2025 Academy Award for best actress.

Madison, 25, wins for her performance as Brooklyn sex worker Anora Ani Mikheeva in the film.

This is very surreal, the actor said, accepting the award Sunday.

I grew up in Los Angeles, but Hollywood always felt so far away from me, so to be here standing in this room today is really incredible.

Sean Baker, the writer-director of the film, who hails from New Jersey, wrote the movie for Madison.

Baker won his first Oscar Sunday for best original screenplay for Anora, followed by best director and best editing. He set a new record, becoming the first person to win four Oscars for the same film at one Academy Awards ceremony.

When he accepted the screenplay award, Baker thanked the sex worker community, something Madison also did after she won best actress.

Baker, who was born in Summit and grew up in Short Hills and Branchburg, has dedicated most of his films to centering and humanizing sex workers.

I will continue to support and be an ally, Madison said. All of the incredible people, the women that I had the privilege of meeting from that community has been one of the highlights of this entire incredible experience.

Recognizing her fellow best actress nominees, Madison called the win a dream come true.

Im probably gonna wake up tomorrow, she said, thanking Baker.

I adore you, she told him. This is all because of you.

Baker wanted to cast Madison after seeing her performances in Scream (2022) and Quentin Tarantinos Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019), the director told NJ Advance Media last year. (Tarantino happened to present Baker with the Oscar for best director.)

In both films, Madison screams her head off in villainous roles.

READ MORE: With Anora, Sean Bakers moment has arrived. N.J. director on the movie eyeing Oscar gold (interview).

When you can see an actor go to those places and yet still keep it grounded and not cartoonish or not a caricature, Im so impressed, Baker, 54, told NJ Advance Media.

And I was even more impressed when I met her and realized shes a quiet, reserved, almost shy young woman who is so different from those roles, that she definitely wasnt typecast.

Madison screams plenty in Anora, but here shes the heroine of the story.

Writer-director Sean Baker wrote the role of Ani for Mikey Madison. Neon

Anis life changes when she meets Ivan Vanya Zakharov, the young, charming son of a Russian oligarch played by Russian actor Mark Edelshteyn.

The privileged good-time Charlie becomes a client and spends more and more time with her. During a raucous trip to Las Vegas, he proposes marriage. They get married in a rush only to see their happy adventure fall apart when Vanyas parents get wind of the nuptials.

READ MORE: Sean Baker wins Oscar for best director for Anora. Indie film champion is from N.J.

Toros, the wealthy familys fixer (Karren Karagulian), sends two henchmen to find Ani and Vanya so they can break up the marriage, but Ani is not the kind of person to quietly acquiesce. (Hence screaming, kicking and punching.)

When Vanya flees the scene, Madisons character forms an uneasy relationship with the hired muscles sent her way. But one of them, Igor, played by Russian actor Yura Borisov, proves hes no unforgiving tough guy.

Madison with her Russian co-star Mark Eydelshteyn, who plays Ivan "Vanya" Zakharov. Neon

This was the first Oscar nomination for Madison as well as Borisov, who was recognized in the best supporting actor category.

Anora received a total of six Oscar nominations at the 97th Academy Awards, including best picture, director, original screenplay and editing nods for Baker.

Before Anora, the indie film auteur helmed Starlet (2012), Tangerine (2015), The Florida Project (2017) and Red Rocket  all movies about sex workers.

Baker on the set of "Anora" with Madison and Eydelshteyn. Neon

Madison, who is also known for her work in the FX series Better Things, wins the best actress Oscar over Demi Moore in The Substance, Fernanda Torres in Im Still Here, Cynthia Erivo in Wicked and Karla Sofia Gascon in Emilia Perez.

Before the Oscars, Madison won best actress at the BAFTAs in London and best lead performance at the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

Anora is rated R, runs 2 hours and 18 minutes and is available to watch on demand.

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Mark Eydelshteyn and Mikey Madison in "Anora," which was nominated for six Oscars. Neon

Anora, a story about dizzying highs and despairing lows, has won the Oscar for best original screenplay.

The film follows a Brooklyn sex worker whose life changes after meeting the son of a Russian oligarch.

Its a big win for writer-director Sean Baker, who hails from New Jersey.

The Oscar is the first of Bakers career and his first win at the 2025 Academy Awards.

I want to thank the sex worker community, Baker said in his acceptance speech. Theyve shared their stories, they have shared their life experience with me over the years. My deepest respect. Thank you, I share this with you.

Anora brought home a total of five Oscars.

Baker went on to win the Oscar for best director Sunday, and star Mikey Madison won her first Academy Award for best actress before the movie won best picture.

The director, who also won for best editing, set a new Oscar record, becoming the first person in the history of the Academy Awards to win four Oscars for the same movie at one ceremony.

READ MORE: Anora wins best picture at the Oscars, a huge victory for N.J.s Sean Baker

The indie filmmaker from Jersey got the idea to set a film in the Russian American communities of Brighton Beach and Coney Island in Brooklyn years ago, when talking with his his longtime friend Karren Karagulian, who has been in every one of his films.

Baker, who was born in Summit and grew up in Short Hills and Branchburg, wrote the film for Madison.

Writer-director Sean Baker, right, with "Anora" cinematographer Drew Daniels. Neon

She delivers a breakthrough performance as Anora Ani Mikheeva, the Russian American sex worker in the film, which sizzles with comedy, tragedy and romance.

Russian actor Mark Eydelshteyn co-stars as the charming young Ivan Vanya Zakharov, the privileged son of the Russian oligarch who pops the question to Ani during a raucous trip to Las Vegas.

READ MORE: With Anora, Sean Bakers moment has arrived. N.J. director on the movie eyeing Oscar gold.

When Vanyas parents discover their nuptials and the family fixer Toros (Karagulian) sends two hired muscles to break the couple up, everything begins to unravel. Vanya flees the scene as Ani is left to deal with the would-be tough guys, played by Vache Tovmasyan and Yura Borisov.

Despite their first encounter during a violent home invasion scene, Borisovs character, Igor, makes a connection with Ani.

It turns out the Russian hired muscle has a heart.

I was always setting up stereotypes then trying to shatter them, Baker, 54, told NJ Advance Media in October as the film began to expand in theaters. In Anis eyes ... we slowly get to see that, oh, OK, maybe hes not what we thought.

READ MORE: Sean Baker wins Oscar for best director for Anora. Indie film champion is from N.J.

Anora was nominated for six Oscars at the 97th Academy Awards, including best picture, director (Baker), original screenplay (Baker), lead actress (Madison), supporting actor (Borisov) and editing (Baker).

All nominations were firsts for Baker and the cast, though this is not the first time Baker has written and directed a film about a sex worker.

Mikey Madison delivers a breakthrough performance as Brooklyn sex worker Anora "Ani" Mikheeva. Neon

His previous movies Starlet (2012), Tangerine (2015), The Florida Project (2017) and Red Rocket (2021) all humanize sex workers, centering them as lead characters in indie films.

While those films received critical praise and recognition at industry events like the Film Independent Spirit Awards, with The Florida Project drawing an Oscar nomination for Willem Dafoe, Anora is Bakers first movie that has received broad support at the Oscars.

The films road to the Academy Awards started in May when Anora won the Palme dOr, the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

Yura Borisov as Igor, the henchman with a heart. Neon

I always thought Oh, OK, so we won the Palme dOr. I can now just sleep nicely at night, Baker told NJ Advance Media last year with a laugh.

A few months later, his film was an Oscar frontrunner.

Baker went on to win best original screenplay for Anora at the Writers Guild Awards.

Anora also won best picture at the Critics Choice Awards and best feature, director and lead performance at the Film Independent Spirit Awards.

Baker filmed "Anora" in Brooklyn's Russian American communities in Brighton Beach and Coney Island. Neon

At the BAFTAs, Madison won best actress and Baker and his wife and fellow producer, Samantha Quan, won best casting.

Baker won best feature film at the Directors Guild of America Awards, and outstanding producer of theatrical motion pictures at the Producers Guild of America Awards alongside producers Quan and Alex Coco.

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New Jersey indie film auteur Sean Baker is now an Oscar-winning director.

Baker has centered most of his films around sex workers.

The movies have been well received, but none have reached the heights of Anora, his first movie to be nominated for best picture at the Oscars.

Now Baker has been anointed best director at the 2025 Academy Awards.

His win arrived just before his film also won best actress and best picture for a total of five Academy Awards. The awards haul made Baker the first person in Oscars history to win four awards for the same movie in a single ceremony.

Anora, starring newly minted first-time Oscar winner Mikey Madison as Brooklyn sex worker Anora Ani Mikheeva, is alternately thrilling, funny and tragic.

Anis life takes quite a turn when she meets Ivan Vanya Zakharov, the son of a Russian oligarch played by Mark Eydelshteyn.

The film, nominated for six Oscars including best picture, director, lead actress, supporting actor, original screenplay and editing, was written, directed and produced by Baker.

"Anora" stars Mikey Madison, right, and Mark Eydelshteyn. Neon

Baker won his first Oscar Sunday for best original screenplay for Anora, followed by best editing for the film.

Quentin Tarantino presented Baker with the award for best director.

Quentin, if you didnt cast Mikey Madison in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, there would be no Anora, Baker told Tarantino.

Madison played Susan Sadie Atkins of the Manson family in the 2019 Tarantino film.

READ MORE: With Anora, Sean Bakers moment has arrived. N.J. director on the movie eyeing Oscar gold (interview).

Baker also made an appeal to audiences to support local movie theaters and called on filmmakers to keep making movies for the big screen.

Were all here tonight and watching this broadcast because we love movies, he said. Where did we fall in love with movies? At the movie theater.

With that, Baker drew a roar from the crowd.

Watching a film in a theater with an audience is an experience, he continued. We can laugh together, cry together, scream and fright together, perhaps sit in devastated silence together. And in a time in which the world can feel very divided, this is more important than ever. Its a communal experience you simply dont get at home. And right now the theatergoing experience is under threat.

Baker, who was born in Summit and grew up in Short Hills and Branchburg, worked as a movie theater manager and projectionist as a teen.

Movie theaters, especially independently owned theaters, are struggling and its up to us to support them, Baker said in his speech. During the pandemic, weve lost nearly 1,000 screens in the U.S. and we continue to lose them regularly. If we dont reverse this trend, well be losing a vital part of our culture. This is my battle cry.

Filmmakers, keep making films for the big screen, he said. I know I will. Distributors, please focus first and foremost on the theatrical releases of your films. Neon (the distributor of Anora) did that for me and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Parents, introduce your children to feature films in movie theaters and youll be molding the next generation of movie lovers and filmmakers. And for all of us, when we can, please watch movies in the theater and lets keep the great tradition of the moviegoing experience alive and well.

Baker ended his speech with a mention of his mother, who introduced him to movies when he was 5 years old. Oscar Sunday happened to fall right on her birthday  along with the five wins for Anora.

Most of Baker's films center sex workers. Neon

Happy birthday, Mom, I love you, thank you for everything, he said. This is for you.

The Jersey director wrote the movie for Madison, who delivers a breakthrough performance in the movie and was recognized with a nomination at the Oscars alongside her co-star Yura Borisov, who plays hired muscle Igor in the film.

Baker filmed the movie in the Russian American communities of Brighton Beach and Coney Island in Brooklyn.

He has long sought to humanize sex workers in his work. His previous movies made in this spirit include Starlet (2012), Tangerine" (2015), The Florida Project (2017) and Red Rocket (2021).

Bakers films have consistently won or been nominated at the Film Independent Spirit Awards, where Anora won best feature, director and lead performance. But before this movie, they never drew much Oscar recognition outside of a nomination for Willem Dafoes performance in The Florida Project.

Baker on the "Anora" set with Madison and Eydelshteyn. Neon

That began to change when Anora won the Palme dOr at the Cannes Film Festival in May. The win was huge for Baker, who made his feature directorial debut in 2000 and has consistently worked in indie film.

I always thought Oh, OK, so we won the Palme dOr. I can now just sleep nicely at night, Baker, 54, told NJ Advance Media with a chuckle in October as Anora began to expand in theaters.

Less than three months later, Baker and Anora were awash in Oscar nominations  all firsts for Baker and the cast.

In the movie, Ani agrees to marry Vanya during a raucous trip to Las Vegas, but sees her Cinderella story deflate when his parents learn about the marriage.

The one thing about the trope of living happily ever after is that you know that life isnt ever that, Baker told NJ Advance Media.

READ MORE: Anora sweeps Independent Spirit Awards. N.J.s Sean Baker makes rousing call to support indie filmmakers.

Theres always the day after, theres always the coming down ... no ones life is devoid of hardships and speed bumps and everything. Even if you are living happily ever after, its never gonna be perfect. And so I think thats what I wanted to show.

Last month, Baker, calling himself an indie film lifer, made another impassioned speech at the Film Independent Spirit Awards, calling on film studios and Hollywood powerbrokers to support indie filmmakers.

The Jersey talent said current conditions in indie film are financially unsustainable, with directors going three years or more without much pay to make their movies.

Baker previously won best feature film at the Directors Guild of America Awards.

He also won best original screenplay at the Writers Guild Awards and outstanding producer of theatrical motion pictures at the Producers Guild of America Awards alongside his fellow producers Samantha Quan, his wife, and Alex Coco.

Anora also won best picture at the Critics Choice Awards, while Madison won best actress and Quan and Baker won best casting at the BAFTAs.

Anora, rated R, runs 2 hours and 18 minutes and is available to watch on demand.

Thank you for reading. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Amy Kuperinsky may be reached at akuperinsky@njadvancemedia.com and followed at @AmyKup on Twitter/X, @amykup.bsky.social on Bluesky and @kupamy on Instagram and Threads.
Newer Mayor Ras Baraka speaks during the press conference at Newark City Hall in addressing the ICE raid in Newark, New Jersey on Friday, January 24, 2025 Ed Murray| For NJ Advance Media

Editors note: This story was originally published by NJ Spotlight News and shared as part of a content-sharing agreement between Mosaic.NJ.com and NJ Spotlight News. You can follow them on Facebook and Twitter (or X).

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is blasting the announcement Thursday that the largest immigrant detention center on the East Coast would be at a facility in Newark.

Baraka, whos also running for the Democratic nomination for governor, said in an interview with NJ Spotlight News that the owner of Delaney Hall has not taken steps to lawfully open the facility.

First, you have to get change-of-use permitting at the planning board; that hasnt been done, said Baraka. If you did work on a building, you have to get permits to do that. They did not get any city permits to start work or finish work. And once the work is done, it has to be inspected.

The Trump administration announced Thursday the opening of Delaney Hall for immigrant detainees. Officials with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency said the 1,000-bed facility, located near Newark Airport and the Essex County Jail, will help manage mass deportation efforts by the White House.

GEO Group, the owner of Delaney Hall, accepted a 15-year contract with ICE worth nearly $60 million during its first full year and about $1 billion over the contracts duration. Its set to be up and running by June.

Delaney Hall, a privately owned detention facility, is located in an industrial corner of Newark on Doremus Avenue, next to the Essex County Correctional Facility. It was previously used as an annex to the jail. Steve Strunsky | NJ Advance Media For NJ.com

Delaney Hall housed immigrant detainees from 2011 to 2017. GEO Group has been considering reopening since April 2024, when it sued New Jersey over a law barring private and public companies from contracting with ICE to house detainees. That law was partially struck down by a federal judge in 2023, allowing private detention centers to continue operating in New Jersey.

In addition to not having other permits, Baraka said of GEO Group, They havent gotten a fire permit. They havent got elevator permits. And they dont have a certificate of occupancy, Baraka said. Certificate of occupancy is what all buildings need to ensure that they can open so people can go inside of them. Even a temporary CO is issued to some buildings so they could start allowing people in as they finish small things. They dont even have that. So for them to say that theyre ready to open is just not true.

Were going to go over there in the next couple of days and probably do a stop-work order to shut the building down until they finish getting permits, said Baraka. You shouldnt be able to sign contracts or do any of these things without even knowing if youre going to get into this facility.

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We condemn in the strongest possible terms Thailands forced return of at least 40 Uighurs to China, where they lack due process rights and where Uighurs have faced persecution, forced labor, and torture, declared Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a statement.

The Uighurs were part of a group of 300 who fled China and were arrested in 2014. Some were sent back to China and others to Turkiye. The rest were detained in Thailand, with several dying in custody, according to press reports.

Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said the forced return of the Uighurs was deeply troubling. This violates the principle of non-refoulement for which there is a complete prohibition in cases where there is a real risk of torture, ill-treatment, or other irreparable harm upon their return, he said.

As Thailands longstanding ally, said Secretary Rubio, we are alarmed by this action, which risks running afoul of its international obligations under the UN Convention Against Torture and the International Convention on the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. This act runs counter to the Thai peoples longstanding tradition of protection for the most vulnerable and is inconsistent with Thailands commitment to protect human rights.

Secretary Rubio urged all governments in countries where Uighurs seek protection not to forcibly return ethnic Uighurs to China.

China, under the direction and control of the Chinese Communist Party, has committed genocide and crimes against humanity targeting predominantly Muslim Uighurs and other members of ethnic and religious minority groups in Xinjiang, said Secretary Rubio.

Indeed, human rights groups estimate that more than 1 million Uighurs and other mostly Muslim ethnic minorities have been rounded up in internment camps in the northwest region of Xinjiang. China initially denied the existence of the camps, but now says they are "vocational training schools" necessary to combat terrorism.

We call on Chinese authorities to provide full access to verify the well-being of the returned Uighurs on a regular basis, said Secretary Rubio. The Thai Government must insist and fully verify continuously that Chinese authorities protect the Uighurs human rights.
The SS United States arrives at its new, temporary dock in Mobile, Alabama, on Monday, March 3, 2025. Okaloosa County, Florida, provided

The SS United States, the historic ocean liner that spent nearly three decades docked in the Delaware River, reached Alabama on Monday morning to begin final preparations for its sinking.

The ship, considered a titan of its time, spent about two weeks being towed 1,800 miles south around the tip of Florida.

Its slated to become the worlds largest artificial reef when it is sunk about 20 miles off the coast of Florida.

The SS United States endured 14-foot waves that battered the ship off the coast of North Carolina and arrived earlier than expected Monday.

The nearly 1,000-foot-long vessel was purchased by Okaloosa County, Florida, to promote diving tourism off its shores.

Crowds gathered along the Delaware River in Gloucester City, Camden County to watch the ship pass beneath the Walt Whitman Bridge as it left Philadelphia.

The SS United States passes under the Walt Whitman Bridge, enroute to Okaloosa County, Florida in Gloucester City, NJ on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Dave Hernandez | For NJ Advance

Off the coast of Florida, the United States sailed alongside the Royal Caribbeans Utopia of the Seas, whose passengers captured photos as their ship passed by the ocean liner.

The ship is being brought to a dock in Mobile, Alabama. Admirers gathered onDauphin Island, a small shore town on the gulf, which was recently renamed Gulf of America but President Donald Trump, to watch the ship arrive.

The ship will be sunk about 20 nautical miles off the Destin, Florida, coast in about 180 feet of water, county officials said.

The ship will also become the first artificial reef paired with a land-based museum and visitor center, said the SS United States Conservancy, which saved it from being scrapped in 2011.

Florida officials intend to salvage the ships symbolic smokestacks and incorporate them into museum.

The ship became an unintentional staple of Philadelphia waterfront after it arrived in 1996, roughly three decades after being retired from commercial sea travel.

It was the star of the United States Lines, a defunct sailing company that ferried passengers across the world.

Its most known as being the fastest ocean liner to cross the Atlantic Ocean.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the local news you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Eric Conklin may be reached at econklin@njadvancemedia.com.
The deadline to sign up to receive a cash payment as part of the ParkMobile class action settlement is here.

The final day to sign up is March 5, 2025.

As many as 21 million people could be eligible for the settlement, which stems from a data breach that happened in 2021.

ParkMobile, popular app used by many Jersey Shore beach towns that collect parking fees, agreed to the $32.8 million settlement to resolve claims relating to an unknown actors unauthorized access to the Personal Information of ParkMobile App users, the settlement website said.

ParkMobile told NJ Advance Media it agreed to the settlement so it could focus on the ongoing protection of our customers' information and to continue enhancing our services.

We prioritize the protection of our customers and their data, continuously enhancing our security posture and monitoring based on industry best practices, it said.

The settlement website said people who received a notification from ParkMobile about the incident are included as settlement class members.

MORE: Did you buy non-drowsy Robitussin? You may be eligible for money back in $4.5M settlement.

MORE: Did you buy Beyond Meat products? You could get cash back from a settlement.

MORE: Progressive settlement update: Deadline to claim cash from data exposure lawsuit is here.

But you have to submit a claim form at ParkMobileSettlement.com to get a cash payment. The top payout is capped at $25, the website said.

If you dont sign up to get the cash payment, youll receive a code from ParkMobile for a $1 credit to use on the app. The credit will be valid for one year.

For more information, you can call (866) 944-4062 or email info@ParkMobileSettlement.com.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.
FILE - Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents after an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) AP

Billionaire Donald Trump backer Bill Ackman and self-described citizen journalist Mario Nawfal are floating a wild conspiracy theory: CNN knew about the assassination attempt against Trump last year.

The pair amplified mega podcaster Joe Rogans suggestion that CNN carried Trumps July 2024 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, live on air because the network knew someone would try and assassinate the president.

What are the chances CNN was tipped off to stream the Butler rally? Why isnt this worthy of an investigation? It shouldnt be too hard to figure out who orders the coverage and why, Ackman posted to X.

Two billionaire Trump supporters suggesting that a Deep State cabal planned to assassinate Trump, enlisted one of the worst marksmen in America to do it, and CNN was in on it so they could televise it live. This is the twisted and sick mental illness running our government. pic.twitter.com/ygAut7xDOo  Ron Filipkowski (@RonFilipkowski) March 2, 2025

It was in response to a recent Rogan episode with Trump adviser Elon Musk, the worlds richest man who also heads the Department of Government Efficiency.

You also know that CNN streamed it live, which I do not believe they did for any other rallyand certainly not for a rally in the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania," Rogan said. Like, theres a lot of weird sh-t.

CNN immediately poured cold water on the conspiracy theory.

CNN provided live coverage of President Trumps Butler, PA rally in anticipation of news about his pick for Vice President. Any suggestion contrary to that fact is completely false, the network posted to X.

CNN provided live coverage of President Trumps Butler, PA rally in anticipation of news about his pick for Vice President. Any suggestion contrary to that fact is completely false.  CNN Communications (@CNNPR) March 2, 2025

In October, a bipartisan House issued a report calling the shooting that nearly killed then-candidate Trump preventable and should not have happened. It determined there were stunning security failures at the event.

Members of both the House and Senate have repeatedly questioned why the Secret Service, an agency tasked with protecting the countrys top leaders, didnt do a better job communicating with local authorities during the campaign rally, particularly when it came to securing the building that was widely agreed to be a security threat but that ultimately was left so unprotected that gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks was able to climb up and shoot.

Lawmakers in their report focued on the fragmented lines of communication and unclear chains of command between Secret Service and Pennsylvania state and local police but place the majority of the blame on the Secret Service for the security breakdown.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Host Conan O'Brien speaks during the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello) Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP

Oscars host Conan OBrien took a veiled jab at President Donald Trump while making a joke about award-winning movie Anora on Sunday night.

Anora took home five Oscars at the 97th Academy Awards, including best picture, best original screenplay and best director. At one point, OBrien quipped that Anora was having a successful night before appearing to take a swipe at Trump.

You know, Anora is having a good night. Thats great. Thats great news. Two wins already, he said about the movie, which features a New York sex worker marrying the son of a Russian oligarch.

I guess Americans are excited to see somebody finally stand up to a powerful Russian, he added.

Conan: You know, Anora is having a good night. That's great news. Two wins already. I guess Americans are excited to see somebody finally stand up to a powerful Russian. pic.twitter.com/UBeKpSigk8  Acyn (@Acyn) March 3, 2025

The moment was met with loud applause and laughter from the audience.

Although he did not name Trump, it appeared OBrien was likely referring to the president and Vice President JD Vances chaotic meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.

Trump and Vance berated Zelenskyy at the White House, calling him disrespectful and demanding that he offer thanks to the U.S. leaders.

Trump and Vances behavior was immediately criticized, with many saying it was embarrassing for U.S. leaders to speak that way. It also led to many critics accusing Trump of not wanting to stand up to Russian leader Vladimir Putin, who Trump has previously praised despite his invasion into Ukraine.

Anora tells the story of Anora Ani Mikeehva, a Brooklyn sex worker who meets Ivan Vanya Zakharov, the son of a Russian oligarch. The two get married, leaving Ani to deal with the consequences once Vanyas parents find out.

Mikey Madison stars as Ani and won her first Oscar for best actress for her role on Sunday. Russian actor Mark Eydelshteyn plays the role of Vanya.

The director, Sean Baker, wrote, directed and produced it, which became his most successful film about sex workers.
Former Republican Congressman Adam Kinzinger took to social media Monday to scold a Fox News host over her comments about the war in Ukraine.

Conservative pundit Laura Ingraham was reacting to protests against President Donald Trump and Russia after the presidents fiery appearance Oval Office appearance with Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week.

Ignore all the blue and gold virtue signaling. The most telling question is: How many of them are willing to send their own sons and daughters to fight? Ingraham posted to X.

Uhhhh, this is why were supporting people that are.You know this, Kinzinger shot back.

Uhhhh, this is why we're supporting people that are.



You know this. https://t.co/OrN4c95Axs  Adam Kinzinger (Slava Ukraini)  (@AdamKinzinger) March 3, 2025

The sudden blowup between Trump and Zelenskyy was the most heated public exchange of words between world leaders in the Oval Office in memory, as the usual staid work of diplomacy descended into finger-pointing, shouting and eye-rolling.

The encounter left the future of the U.S.-Ukraine relationship, and Kyivs ability to defend itself in the brutal conflict with Russia, in mortal jeopardy.

Following Trumps lead, White House officials and Republicans in Congress used news show appearances to demand that Zelenskyy display more gratitude for U.S. support and an openness to potential war-ending concessions to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Some suggested Zelenskyy should consider resigning even as Ukrainians rally around him.

But they offered little clarity as to what Zelenskyy and Ukraine could do after Fridays Oval Office meeting. The dispute leaves the future of that relationship in question, as well as the prospects for ending a conflict that began when the Kremlin invaded in February 2022.

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz, who while in Congress went to Ukraine during the first year of the war to meet Zelenskyy and once compared him to wartime British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, said Zelenskyys behavior at the White House was incredibly disrespectful.

The coordinated campaign of pressure from Washington played out as Zelenskyy and European leaders came to terms with Trumps overhaul of U.S. foreign policy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the United Kingdom would use 1.6 billion pounds ($2 billion) in export financing to supply 5,000 air defense missiles for Ukraine.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump, right, meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office at the White House, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/ Mystyslav Chernov) AP

At best, theyre Kremlin tools. At worst, theyre fools.

Thats according to former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, who condemned President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and top adviser to the president, Elon Musk, after Trumps Oval Office thrashing of Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.

Here is some truth: Putin invaded Ukraine. NATO is the most successful military alliance in history. Since 1945, American leadership has ensured freedom and security for ourselves and millions of others around the world. Together with our allies, we defeated the Soviet Unionan empire so evil it had to build gulags and walls to keep its own people in. Destroying Americas alliances and abandoning the cause of freedom is morally and strategically indefensible. Putin will pocket Trumps naive concessions and demand much more. Appeasement makes a wider war more likely, not less," Cheney posted to X.

She added: "@realDonaldTrump, @JDVance, and @elonmusk have made clear who they are. Only foolsor Kremlin toolswould abandon NATO, side with Russia, and demand Ukraine surrender in the face of Putins brutal aggression.

Here is some truth: Putin invaded Ukraine. NATO is the most successful military alliance in history. Since 1945, American leadership has ensured freedom and security for ourselves and millions of others around the world. Together with our allies, we defeated the Soviet Unionan  Liz Cheney (@Liz_Cheney) March 2, 2025

The sudden blowup was the most heated public exchange of words between world leaders in the Oval Office in memory, as the usual staid work of diplomacy descended into finger-pointing, shouting and eye-rolling.

The encounter left the future of the U.S.-Ukraine relationship, and Kyivs ability to defend itself in the brutal conflict with Russia, in mortal jeopardy.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., a defense hawk and Trump ally, said he had warned Zelenskyy before the meeting not to take the bait in his dealings with Trump, who has repeatedly shown a penchant for throwing criticism but a deep resistance to receiving it.

It was Vance  a longtime critic of American support for Ukraine  who dangled it, when he insisted diplomacy was the only way forward.

What kind of diplomacy, JD, you are speaking about? Zelenskyy said, listing Russias past violations of ceasefires. What do you mean?

Im talking about the kind of diplomacy thats going to end the destruction of your country, Vance responded before tearing into the Ukrainian leader. Mr. President, with respect, I think its disrespectful for you to come into the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media.

Trump then let loose, warning the Ukrainian leader, Youre gambling with World War III, and what youre doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country thats backed you far more than a lot of people say they should have.

At another point, Trump declared himself in the middle, seeming to formally break from years of American support for Ukraine. He went on to deride Zelenskyys hatred for Putin as a roadblock to peace.

You see the hatred hes got for Putin, Trump said. Thats very tough for me to make a deal with that kind of hate.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump spoke with reporters before boarding Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, Friday, Feb. 28, 2025. AP Photo/Ben Curtis

President Donald Trump said that tariffs on external products will go into effect starting next montha move that critics say could increase food prices for consumers in the U.S.

In a Truth Social post on Monday, Trump told farmers to prepare themselves to make a lot of agricultural product to be sold within the United States starting on April 2.
Vice President JD Vance, speaks during the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC 2025, at the National Harbor, in Oxon Hill, Md., Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) AP

Vice President JD Vance is using a popular meme format to troll U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) over his criticism of the administrations meeting with the Ukraine leader last week.

Murphy, an outspoken critic of President Donald Trump, wrote that Trumps "alignment with Putin  and his plan to sell out Ukraine  is shameful." He slammed Trump and his allies for suggesting that Ukraine started the war with Russia despite Russia invading the country about three years ago.

But its part of a bigger story. Trump sides with dictators [because] it legitimizes his plan for America: a Russian-style kleptocracy where the rich steal from us to enrich themselves, Murphy wrote on social media platform X.

Murphy said during CNNs State of the Union that the White House has become an arm of the Kremlin and has criticized Trump and Vance over their contentious meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week.

Vance responded to Murphys comments with a meme from Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia that is often used to mock people talking about conspiracy theories. The character is rambling about his latest theory about how a certain person does not exist in front of an elaborate cork board.

Vance did not include any caption to the image taken from a 2008 episode that has grown in popularity on social media.

Trump and Vance berated Zelenskyy during a Friday meeting at the White House, calling him disrespectful and demanding that he offer thanks to the U.S. leaders.

Trump and Vances behavior was immediately criticized, with many saying it was embarrassing for U.S. leaders to speak that way. It also led to many critics accusing Trump of not wanting to stand up to Russian leader Vladimir Putin, who Trump has previously praised despite his invasion into Ukraine.

Following Trumps lead, White House officials and Republicans in Congress used news show appearances to demand that Zelenskyy display more gratitude for U.S. support and an openness to potential war-ending concessions to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Some suggested Zelenskyy should consider resigning even as Ukrainians rally around him.

But they offered little clarity as to what Zelenskyy and Ukraine could do after Fridays Oval Office meeting in which Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated him before canceling the signature of an economic agreement between Washington and Kyiv. The dispute leaves the future of that relationship in question, as well as the prospects for ending a conflict that began when the Kremlin invaded in February 2022.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Kevin Collins Jr., 21, of Bridgeton, was reported missing Thursday after he walked away from a hospital in Salem County. (New Jersey State Police)

Authorities are looking for a man reported as missing and endangered after he walked away from a hospital in Salem County last week.

Kevin Collins Jr., 21, of Bridgeton, was wearing a hospital gown when he left Inspira Medical Center on Route 45 in Mannington around 4 p.m. on Thursday, according to New Jersey State Police.

The gown was later found discarded near the hospital.

Collins was spotted on surveillance video walking unclothed in a wooded area near Griscom Lane shortly before 5 p.m. on Thursday, police said. That area is close to the medical center.

He had not been located as of Monday morning, police said.

Collins is described as Black, 5 feet 5 inches tall, 115 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

State Police ask anyone with information to contact them at 856-769-0775 or the police missing persons unit at 609-882-2000, ext. 2554.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com.
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Torridge is set to benefit from a 20 million investment aimed at driving regeneration and growth across the area.

The funding, provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, will support key projects focused on boosting local employment, addressing the housing crisis, and enhancing community health and wellbeing.

The investment, confirmed today (March 3), will be used in several areas, including the development of local green innovation, the creation of affordable homes, and improvements to health care and infrastructure.

The funding package is part of the national Plan for Change, an ambitious government initiative designed to ensure communities across the UK can access the benefits of economic growth.

To stimulate the local economy and provide more opportunities for residents, the funding will support the expansion of manufacturing and engineering facilities at Bideford Business Park and improvements to infrastructure at Torringtons Hatchmoor Industrial Estate.

In line with the government's commitment to building 1.5 million homes across the country, the funding will bring forward plans for affordable and social housing in Bideford, as well as retrofitting existing social homes in Torridge to improve their energy efficiency, reducing bills for vulnerable residents.

The funding will also support the repurposing of a redundant ward at Bideford Hospital, transforming it into a Community Health and Wellbeing Hub.

This facility will offer a multi-purpose space for healthcare services, fitness classes, group appointments, and community support, providing much-needed services for local residents.

Torridges growing agri-innovation sector will also see a boost, with funding allocated to expand the Agri-Business Centre in Holsworthy and support the development of Appledores Clean Maritime Innovation Centre (ACMIC).

These projects aim to create jobs, attract national investment, and improve connectivity for local workers, all while positioning Torridge as a leading hub for clean maritime innovation.

Environmental initiatives will also benefit, with the launch of the Bideford Nutrient Recovery Pilot, a project designed to reduce pollutants entering local rivers.

Real-time monitoring through the Westward Ho! Buoy will help identify sources of pollution, supporting efforts to maintain high water quality for both residents and visitors.

The funding will also support the preservation of Torridges unique heritage by creating flexible community spaces.

The historic Bideford Pannier Market building will be developed to host community events, and the Holsworthy Manor office space will be modernised.

The Grade II-listed Globe Hotel in Torrington, which has long been derelict, will be restored into an 11-bedroom training hotel and restaurant, providing valuable training opportunities and boosting the local economy.

Local Growth Minister Alex Norris said: Growth is the governments priority and we want every person and community across the country to be part of this. The regeneration and improvements coming to Torridge will really put this region at the forefront of our decade of national renewal.

With this 20 million package we are tackling issues that really matter to the region, rather than a one-size fits all approach, this tailored package will guarantee long-term, sustainable growth that means more money in peoples pockets as promised in our Plan for Change.

Councillor Ken James, Lead Member for Torridge District Council, said: We are thrilled that the Government has confirmed that it will be investing over 20 million to fund transformative regeneration projects across the district. This is fantastic news for Torridge and a testament to all the hard work put in by our officers and members of the Torridge Place Board.

The breadth and scope of projects being announced today, will enable us to work along alongside our partners and key stakeholders to make a real long and lasting difference to the people of Torridge. Securing investment like this is vital part of these plans I am looking forward to working with team to ensure a successful implementation of the next phase.
A group of men with prostate cancer have come together to encourage more men to get themselves checked for the disease.

Graham Turner, 81, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer four years ago, is one of three men behind the initiative, Below The Belt, alongside George and Brian.

They met at the Fern Centre, a wellness facility in Barnstaple that provides support and information for those affected by cancer and their families.

Graham explained: A few of the men who met through the centre realised there was nowhere for men to pick up information about prostate cancer. So, we reached out to Prostate Cancer UK and in that conversation, we asked if a few men would be willing to set up a stall to raise awareness.

Prostate Cancer UK said, 'Yes, we think it's a great idea, take it into your community and encourage men to have this simple blood test to check for cancer.'

So the group decided to attend local markets to distribute leaflets, offer advice and encourage men to get tested.

However, funding quickly became an issue.

Then we found out we had no money, Graham told the Gazette.

Fortunately, one of the men supporting the initiative was a member of the local Rotary Club, which stepped in and donated 200 to help set up their first awareness stall, at South Molton market before Christmas. It proved successful.

They then approached Barnstaple Pannier Market, which was too busy to accommodate them before the festive period but later agreed to a regular slot.

After Christmas, they said yes  it's 8 a week, and you need public liability insurance. The Rotary Club offered to cover our expenses, Graham explained.

Now, the group is hosting monthly stalls on the last Friday of every month at the pannier market to spread their crucial message.

The biggest thing for me is that prostate cancer has now become one of the biggest killers, Graham said. Were getting more women picking up booklets from us because the men often deny anything is wrong with them.

To avoid overwhelming people, the group limits the number of volunteers at each stall to two or three members at a time.

Graham recalled a particularly emotional encounter with a woman who came to pick up leaflets for her husband, who even showing all the signs of prostate cancer he said there was nothing wrong with him.

She was ill and worried that she couldnt look after her husband, so she wanted him to get a diagnosis for some clarity. That really upset me, he said.

Graham explained that the woman, who was not in the best of health herself, was concerned about how she would manage to care for him.

She took a couple of leaflets home in the hope that he would read them.

Graham shared that the information on his groups stall enables men to learn about prostate cancer in the comfort of their own home and understand the importance of early detection.

People need to read about this and learn the symptoms, what to look out for.

The group is also reaching out to other local organisations, such as Men's Sheds, to further spread awareness.

They are also still looking for funding for a red table cloth with Below The Belt on it.

Graham has also spoken to doctors about the importance of regular prostate cancer testing. A few years ago, doctors were refusing to give blood tests, but now, with so many people coming into surgeries, theyre taking a more proactive approach  especially after Chris Hoys diagnosis, he said.

The group hopes to connect with local organisations, clubs, and community spaces where their information could be beneficial to members.

They are encouraging anyone who believes their stall would be useful to the community to get in touch and arrange a visit.

The group offers free information on prostate cancer awareness, including the importance of early detection and blood testing, and can also provide a short talk on the subject.

All resources are provided at no cost, including visits to clubs.

For more information, visit their stall at the market or contact Graham via email (graham.turner127@hotmail.co.uk)

Originally from Manchester, Graham moved to North Devon to build a better life for his children. Now he is determined to make a difference in raising awareness for prostate cancer.

He explained that anyone can be involved with the group.

His message is clear: If you ignore it, youll need operations, youll get ill and someone will have to look after you. Just come along, take a leaflet, and read about it.

Chiara De Biase, director of health services, equity and improvement at Prostate Cancer UK, said: We're really grateful to Graham and Below the Belt for their work making men in Barnstable aware of their prostate cancer risk and what they can do about it.

In the South West, 5,036 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, according to the latest data. Tragically, more than one in five of these men are diagnosed when their disease has spread and can't be cured.

But the good news is the earlier you find prostate cancer, the easier it is to treat  and an earlier diagnosis could save your life.

Most men with early-stage prostate cancer don't get any symptoms, so instead of looking for signs of being unwell, it's vital you know your risk of getting it and what you can do about it.

If you're a man over 50, you are at risk of getting prostate cancer so speak to your GP about the PSA blood test.

We're working with Sir Chris Hoy and Marks & Spencer this month to encourage men across the UK to take Prostate Cancer UK's 30-second online Risk Checker  and I urge you to go online and take it today!
A staff member works at the laboratory of Bayer Crop Science Hangzhou Production Site in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Feb. 21, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Mingxiang)

HANGZHOU, March 2 (Xinhua) -- Ma Jishen was excited to see Bayer, the German healthcare and agribusiness giant, achieve the designed production capacity in just over a month at its new factory, where he serves as director.

The Bayer Crop Science Hangzhou Production Site, which spans 4 hectares and has a total investment exceeding 300 million yuan (about 41.18 million U.S. dollars), began operations on Jan. 15 in Hangzhou, capital of east China's Zhejiang Province and a leading tech hub. The site is projected to generate an output value of 2 billion yuan this year.

The production site produces a range of crop protection products, including insecticides, seed treatments, and growth regulators, covering key crops such as rice, corn, wheat, and fruits and vegetables. Bayer provides farmers with crop protection solutions, safe pesticide use, and application techniques to support sustainable agricultural practices.

In the workshop, automated and intelligent production lines run smoothly, quickly filling bottles with crop science products, with hardly any production staff in sight. "On average, each production line requires fewer than one employee. We aim to set an advanced example of green manufacturing here," said Ma.

In 2000, Bayer established its only Chinese crop science plant in Hangzhou. Over the past 25 years, the company has continuously increased its investment in Hangzhou, totaling over 1 billion yuan.

Ma believes that the launch and production ramp-up of the new factory is closely linked to China's vast market potential, complete industrial chain, and the local government's services.

"China is a key and attractive market for agriculture with strong demand and robust growth. The Yangtze River Delta region, where our new factory is located, has a complete supply chain. We can get raw materials and find plenty of logistics and storage partners nearby easily," said Ma in an interview with Xinhua.

"The local authorities spent nearly a year tailoring an investment agreement for Bayer. It sends a clear message that China welcomes companies and investors worldwide to operate and grow their businesses here," he said.

Bayer collaborates with local partners on new product development, drawing inspiration from China. To reduce environmental impact, the business focuses more on biologicals and green solutions. To strengthen its local R&D capabilities, Bayer upgraded its innovation center in China, one of its 17 global innovation hubs.

Recently, several German companies expanded their investments in the Yangtze River Delta region. German optical systems giant ZEISS Group plans to build its Greater China headquarters in Shanghai, covering 60 mu with an investment of over 600 million yuan.

Bartec Thermal Control and Safety System (PingHu) Co., Ltd. launched its Asia-Pacific headquarters in the city of Pinghu, Zhejiang. The company focuses on explosion-proof electrical machines and expects to generate 250 million yuan in annual output.

In 2024, 59,080 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in China, up 9.9 percent year on year. By the end of 2024, the cumulative number of foreign-invested enterprises in China exceeded 1.23 million, with actual use of foreign capital reaching 20.6 trillion yuan.

In February, China issued an action plan to stabilize foreign investment, with efforts to expand opening-up in sectors like telecommunication, biotechnology, and medical services and offer comprehensive services for foreign-invested projects.

The plan was approved at a State Council executive meeting last month. The meeting highlighted the important role of foreign-invested enterprises in employment, export stability, and industrial upgrading and urged more practical and effective measures to maintain existing investments and attract new ones.

A survey by the German Chamber of Commerce in China shows that 92 percent of surveyed companies plan to keep operating in China.

"We're optimistic about China's economic resilience, technological progress, and its focus on low-carbon and rural development. Our investment in China not only creates opportunities for us to develop here but also contributes to the world," said Ma. 

This photo shows the production workshop of Bartec Thermal Control and Safety System (PingHu) Co., Ltd. in Pinghu City, east China's Zhejiang Province, Jan. 17, 2025. (Pinghu Economic-Technological Development Zone/Handout via Xinhua)

Editor: Zhang Zhou
Voice of America, the federally funded broadcaster to the world, has long prided itself on serving as an accurate and fair source of news and on being independent of whichever president and party are in power in the United States.

Since the election of President Trump, that independence is increasingly being tested.

In recent months, Voice of Americas parent organization, the U.S. Agency for Global Media, has opened human-resources investigations into Voice of America journalists for reporting on criticism of Mr. Trump or for making comments that were perceived as critical of him, according to several employees. Some journalists raised concerns about the investigations in a meeting this week with the broadcasters director.

At least a couple of articles that included criticism of Mr. Trump and his administration were not published or were watered down after publication in recent months, said three Voice of America employees, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they feared retribution.

And on Friday, the Agency for Global Media informed one of Voice of Americas highest-profile journalists, Steven Herman, that he was being placed on an extended excused absence pending a human resources investigation, according to a copy of the letter reviewed by The New York Times. Mr. Herman confirmed receiving the letter, which said the investigation was into whether his social media activity has undermined V.O.A.s audiences perceptions of the objectivity and/or credibility of V.O.A. and its news operations.
After the ad ran, senior editors at Gannett intervened. Mr. Doris said he was suspended within days, and editors at the company met with a group that included Michael Hoffman, the president and chief executive of the federation. Mr. Hoffman said in an interview that the editors from Gannett apologized during the meeting and discussed how the attendees could promote healthy dialogue about issues important to the local Jewish community.

Mr. Doris said he was fired the week after the meeting by a senior editor at Gannett who told him that he violated company policies. Mr. Doris said that the editor did not specify what those policies were and added that he was not paid any severance.

In an interview, Mr. Hoffman said that he believed the cartoon was antisemitic, partly because it trivialized the plight of hostages captured by Hamas during its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel and gave more fuel to online hatred of Jewish people.

Since Oct. 7, the dramatic rise in antisemitism has been the result of how the conflict in Gaza and in Israel has been reported, Mr. Hoffman said. We believe that there has not been a fair and balanced approach toward how the war has been reported.

The cartoonist who drew the image, Jeff Danziger, has drawn many cartoons critical of the war. In an interview on Saturday, he rejected the idea that the cartoon was antisemitic, saying it was simply a case of, this wars gone on long enough. Mr. Danziger, an Army veteran whose father is Jewish, also said that his service as an intelligence officer has made him critical of war.
Anora, a comedy-drama about an exotic dancer who weds a flighty Russian, won best picture at the Oscars on Sunday night, capping a dominant performance for a movie that was far from a box-office smash.

In addition to winning the top award as a producer, Sean Baker won Oscars for directing, original screenplay and editing, tying Walt Disneys record with four competitive Oscars in one year. Mikey Madison also won the award for best actress. (The only category that Anora was nominated for but did not win was best supporting actor, in which Yura Borisov lost to Kieran Culkin, who starred in A Real Pain.)

Anora established its award-season bona fides last May, when it won the prestigious Palme dOr at the Cannes Film Festival. Still, it did not dominate this season in the manner of the recent best picture winners Oppenheimer and Everything Everywhere All at Once.

Although Anora earned impressive wins with Hollywoods producers, directors and writers guilds, it was shut out for top awards at the Golden Globes, the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the BAFTAs.
Best and Worst Moments

One More Chance to See the Wicked Stars in Pink and Green

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo spent months holding true to a theme during interviews and at awards shows, and they saved stunning options for the Oscars.

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Cynthia Erivos Louis Vuitton gown on Sunday night was a dark shade of green that she called a nod to Oz. Credit... Jutharat Pinyodoonyachet for The New York Times
Conan OBrien was literally born to host the Oscars.

After a pretaped sketch on Sunday in which OBrien emerged out of the back of Demi Moore, the star of The Substance, before turning around to dig into her spine cavern for a lost shoe, the comedian broke into his monologue.

He poked fun at many of the shows nominees, and himself, starting with a list of recent films  A Complete Unknown, A Real Pain, Nosferatu  that he joked he was called on the red carpet. I think two were fair, he said.

The monologue also razzed Netflixs 18 nominations (and price increases), the length of The Brutalist and the recent controversy about Emilia Perez actress Karla Sofia Gascons offensive social media posts.

Little fact for you: Anora uses the F-word 479 times, he said. Thats three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascons publicist.
Plenty of kisses were shared on the Oscars red carpet on Sunday night  but none could have been as nostalgic as the moment Adrien Brody and Halle Berry locked lips.

More than two decades after Brody planted a shocking kiss on Berry at the 2003 Oscars after winning the best actor statuette for his role in The Pianist, she returned the favor in grand fashion as onlookers cheered. The moment, captured by Access Hollywood, quickly spread across social media.

That was one hell of a night for him, and for me as well, Berry told Variety after smooching Brody, who is nominated for best actor for his role in The Brutalist. Tonight I had to pay him back.
The Brazilian film Im Still Here, based on the true story of an activist whose dissident politician husband disappeared at the hands of a military government, won the Academy Award for best international feature.

Directed by Walter Salles, the movie was a blockbuster in Brazil, where many remember the legacy of the military dictatorship, which lasted from 1964 to 1985. The film is based on a memoir of the same name by Marcelo Rubens Paiva: the son of Eunice Paiva, the films main character, and Rubens Paiva, her politician husband who disappeared after being arrested in a 1971 military raid of the Paiva house.

This goes to a woman who, after a loss suffered during an authoritarian regime, decided not to bend and to resist, Salles said while accepting the award. This prize goes to her. Her name is Eunice Paiva. And it goes to the two extraordinary women who gave life to her: Fernanda Torres, and Fernanda Montenegro.

The films lead actress, Torres, won the Golden Globe for best actress in a drama in a surprise victory in January and was also nominated for the best actress Oscar, but lost to Mikey Madison of Anora. Torres was the second Brazilian actress to receive a nod for that prize: The first was her mother, Montenegro, a grande dame of Brazilian film who plays an older version of her daughters character in Im Still Here. She was nominated in 1999 for Central Station, also directed by Salles.
Kieran Culkin won the Academy Award for best supporting actor for his role as the descendant of a Holocaust survivor who makes a family pilgrimage to Poland in the dramatic comedy of manners A Real Pain.

This was the first Oscar nomination for Culkin, 42, who was a favorite to take home the honor. His performance as Benji Kaplan, a disinhibited and emotionally unstable charmer who embarks on the trip with his anxious cousin (Jesse Eisenberg), earned Culkin a shelfs worth of statues this awards season, including from the Golden Globes, the Screen Actors Guild and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts.

Culkins nomination is one of two for A Real Pain, which is also competing for best original screenplay. Eisenberg wrote the script and directed the film.

The other candidates in the best supporting actor category were Yura Borisov, for the modern rags-to-riches fable Anora; Edward Norton, who plays Pete Seeger in the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown; Guy Pearce, for his role as an architects predatory patron in The Brutalist; and Culkins Succession co-star Jeremy Strong, who portrayed Donald J. Trumps mentor Roy Cohn in The Apprentice.
On February 28, 2025, ambassadors and diplomatic envoys from ten Caribbean countries gathered in Beijing for the media launch of Caribbean Experience 2025, an immersive cultural festival scheduled to take place in Beijing this June.

Held at the Liangmaqiao Diplomatic Office Building in Beijing, the event was attended by ambassadors and diplomatic representatives from ten Caribbean nations, including Her Excellency Anyin Choo, Ambassador of Guyana and Chair of the Caribbean Caucus of Ambassadors. Mr. Liu Wenguang, Chairman of Beijing Grand World Culture Media Co., Ltd., was also in attendance. Over 100 guests from Chinese and foreign enterprises, media, and other organizations participated in the event.

Welcome Speech by Her Excellency Anyin Choo, Ambassador of Guyana to China : Embarking on an exciting Caribbean cultural journey

The media launch commenced with opening remarks by Her Excellency Anyin Choo, Ambassador of Guyana to China and Chair of the Caribbean Caucus of Ambassadors. During her speech, Ambassador Choo highlighted the strong bond of friendship between the Caribbean and China, which has further deepened through extensive cultural connections and exchanges. Ambassador Choo also emphasized the unique cultural heritage of the Caribbean, stating that during the upcoming event, friends of the Caribbean will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Caribbean people. She also noted that the 2025 Caribbean Experience is set to be much grander than in previous years in all aspects.

Caribbean Experience 2025 Preview and highlights by Ms. Ornissa Gordon

Ms. Ornissa Gordon, a representative from the Caribbean Caucus Sub-Committee, presented an outline of what can be expected at the upcoming Caribbean Experience 2025. She revealed that the event will place greater emphasis on increased interactions, with the addition of multiple cultural workshops and interactive exhibition areas. Attendees will not only enjoy traditional performances from Caribbean nations but also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique charm of Caribbean culture. Furthermore, she highlighted that the event will feature renowned artists and performances from the Caribbean, offering Chinese audiences a truly unique experience.

Promoting Caribbean Culture: Speech by Mr. Liu Wenguang

As the chairman of Grand World Media, the management company for the Caribbean Experience 2025 event, Mr. Liu Wenguang shared that the company will work closely with the Caribbean Diplomatic Corps to ensure the successful execution of the event. Mr. Liu stated that Grand World Media has applied for and launched the official WeChat public account for the "Caribbean Experience" event and warmly invited guests to follow the page for the latest updates. Moving forward, he noted that Grand World Media will leverage its media resources to showcase the unique charm of Caribbean culture through a combination of online and offline platforms, allowing for greater public participation and engagement.

Free Exchange Session: cordial interactions and discussion of future plans

During the free exchange session, guests engaged in cordial discussions with the ambassadors and representatives from Caribbean countries. Light refreshments were also served and guest had an opportunity to to sample a variety of exquisite Caribbean beverages, creating a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

Media Q&A Session Several Caribbean ambassadors, including those from Barbados, the Bahamas, Grenada, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, participated in media interviews, sharing insights on the events highlights and opportunities for collaboration.

The Ambassador of Suriname emphasized new promotional strategies, such as leveraging social media and digital platforms to engage younger audiences and showcase Caribbean dance, music, cuisine, and history. The Ambassador of Barbados highlighted the festivals role in cultural promotion, particularly in featuring national cuisines and specialty products like Barbados' renowned rum, hoping to attract investor interest.

The Ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago pointed to the countrys strengths in high-quality products and the beauty industry, identifying investment potential and cooperation opportunities. The Ambassador of the Bahamas stressed the importance of cultural exchange, noting tourism as a key industry and advocating for its development in China and beyond. Meanwhile, the Ambassador of Grenada expressed strong interest in expanding economic ties with China, highlighting potential areas for future collaboration.

The Caribbean Experience 2025 event will be an all-encompassing cultural fiesta where participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural heritage of the Caribbean people through food, dance, music, arts, crafts, and beverages. Through this media launch, the Caribbean Diplomatic Corps extended an invitation to friends, encouraging everyone to participate and experience the unique charm of the Caribbean!

Contributed by Grand World Media

Editor: WRX
Whoever won the prize for best director on Sunday night was going to receive a first directing Oscar, but no nominee has labored as a filmmaker more single-mindedly for a longer time than Sean Baker, the creative force behind Anora.

By winning the Oscars for director, original screenplay, film editing and best picture (as a producer), Baker tied the record for most Oscars won by an individual in one year with a very famous name. Walt Disney won four awards for four different films in 1954, none of them particularly well remembered today.

Anora, a Cinderella story that foregrounds hot topics like class, immigration and global capitalism through the story of a stripper who initially accepts money for sex, is in many ways typical of Bakers oeuvre. Like several of his past movies, including Tangerine (2015) and The Florida Project (2017), it blends comedy and drama, depicts sex workers sympathetically and makes copious use of nonprofessional actors.

But Anora signaled Bakers mainstream recognition. Nearly a year ago, the film won the Palme dOr, the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival; more recently, it picked up top prizes from the directors and producers guilds. On Sunday, the movies star, Mikey Madison, received the Oscar for lead actress.
Washington was an entire country away.

At the Academy Awards on Sunday, there were relatively few references to politics. The most direct commentary on President Trump and the upheaval in the capital was an oblique reference by the host of the telecast, Conan OBrien.

You know, Anora is having a good night, Mr. OBrien said, referring to the Oscar-winning film about a sex workers short-lived romance with the son of a Russian oligarch. One of the movies emotional high points is when its working-class protagonist, played by Mikey Madison, dresses down the powerful family.

I guess Americans are excited to see somebody finally stand up to a powerful Russian, Mr. OBrien said.

The comment was the closest he got to uttering the name of Mr. Trump, whose administration has been dealing with the fallout from his public blowup in the Oval Office with President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine. The dispute involved Mr. Trump scolding Mr. Zelensky for his harsh words for President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia.
A spokeswoman for the New York attorney general, Letitia James, said her office was conducting a preliminary assessment of the death. Deaths that appear to be from other than natural causes or a known medical condition are investigated by the Office of the Attorney General, the New York State Police and the state corrections departments Office of Special Investigations, Mr. Mailey said.

A spokesman for Gov. Kathy Hochul did not respond to requests for comment on Sunday, and a spokesman for the corrections officers union said he had no information about the death.

Officials did not release the inmates name, but his father confirmed on Monday that the man who died was Messiah Nantwi, 22. Mr. Nantwi had entered custody in May and was serving a five-year sentence for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, according to official records.

His death followed that of another prisoner, 43-year-old Robert Brooks, who died on Dec. 9 at Marcy Correctional Facility, across the street from Mid-State. Ten officers have been criminally charged in Mr. Brookss death, six of them with murder, after they were captured on body-worn cameras beating and choking him in the infirmary.

The latest fatality comes amid a mounting crisis in the New York State prison system, where wildcat strikes by thousands of corrections officers are expected to enter a third week. It is also the fifth death in the prison system since the strikes began. At least one of the deaths was a suicide.
The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said the European Union would present a plan to do just that on Thursday. Europe, she said, will also fortify Ukraine with economic and military aid, aiming to turn the country into a steel porcupine that is indigestible for potential invaders.

NATOs secretary-general, Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, said several European countries that he did not name had pledged to increase their military spending, calling that a very positive signal. Mr. Rutte also insisted that Mr. Trump was committed to NATO, telling reporters after the meeting to please stop gossiping about the possibility that the United States would pull out of the alliance.

And President Emmanuel Macron of France said his country and Britain would propose a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine in the air, on the seas and in energy infrastructures to allow for negotiations on a peace agreement. He also told Le Figaro newspaper that European countries should aim to spend about 3 to 3.5 percent of their G.D.P. on defense, a level NATO plans to make its goal at its next summit meeting this summer.

The London summit took on greater urgency after Mr. Zelenskys heated meeting with Mr. Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office on Friday raised fears that the United States would try to strong-arm Ukraines president into making a peace deal.

At the summit, Mr. Starmer, with Mr. Zelensky beside him, told the assembled leaders: Were gathered here today because this is a once-in-a-generation moment for the security of Europe, and we all need to step up. Getting a good outcome for Ukraine is not just a matter of right and wrong; its vital for the security of every nation here, and many others, too.
This months noteworthy Netflix departures in the United States include a chilling indie, a South Korean classic, two honest-to-goodness great popcorn flicks and a very funny skewering of Englands most famous family. (Dates reflect the first day titles are unavailable and are subject to change.)

The Autopsy of Jane Doe (March 15)

Stream it here.

The Norwegian director Andre Ovredal (Trollhunter) makes his solo English-language debut with this modest, muted yet endlessly chilling postmortem thriller. Brian Cox and Emile Hirsch star as a father-son team of small-town coroners whose seemingly straightforward autopsy of a young murder victim becomes something far more complicated  and sinister. Ovredal builds dread with genuine skill (and without resorting to cheap thrills), and the performances are top-notch, with the Succession favorite Cox doing particularly stellar work as an old pro who thinks hes seen it all and is quickly proven wrong.

A Walk Among the Tombstones (March 16)

Stream it here.

The pedigree for this 2014 neo-noir thriller is mighty impressive: It is based on a novel by the respected and prolific crime novelist Lawrence Block and adapted and directed by Scott Frank (Out of Sight, Minority Report, The Queens Gambit). But because the star is Liam Neeson, and because the picture was released just as viewers were beginning to sour on his Taken sequels and re-treads, it was dismissed by the adult audience that might appreciate it most. Neeson stars as Blocks most durable hero, the former cop-turned-private investigator (and recovering alcoholic) Matthew Scudder, here investigating a brutal murder that opens up a complicated series of kidnappings, slayings and secrets. Moody and melancholy, it is possibly the best film of the Neeson-aissance.

Oldboy (March 24)

Stream it here.

Perhaps the most popular (at least on these shores) and most influential film of the New Korean Cinema movement of the 1990s and 2000s, this artful and aching revenge thriller from the director Park Chan-wook (The Handmaiden) concerns a seemingly straight-arrow businessman, Dae-su (Choi Min-sik), who wakes up from a drunken blackout locked in some kind of private prison. He is kept there for 15 years, never allowed to know who put him there or why, so when he is unceremoniously released, he decides to get those answers himself. In the post-Pulp Fiction film landscape, Chan-wooks action set pieces and unflinching violence made him a hero of young cinephiles around the world. But what makes Oldboy special, and what makes it stick, is its poignancy; Oldboy wonders genuinely what it would be like to lose so much of ones life, and what kind of madness might follow suit.
President Trump has spent years demonizing the press. He popularized the phrase fake news and branded journalists the enemy of the people. He frequently sues news outlets. His administration is investigating broadcasters. Trump and his followers falsely claim that news organizations, including The Times, are bankrolled by the government.

Bashing the press is a time-honored tradition for presidents of both parties. But Trump has gone much further, attacking the very notion of an independent news media, one that will refute his distortions. He wants journalists to parrot his views and face consequences if they dont. In todays newsletter, well look at how the president is already acting on his threats  and what additional peril the press faces in the Trump era.

Trump vs. journalism

Trumps crackdown on the press began almost immediately after he returned to office.

The White House excluded Associated Press reporters from events because the wire service wouldnt reclassify the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. It plans to select which reporters and news outlets are part of the press pool that covers the president, a tactic used by authoritarian leaders. The Federal Communications Commission is investigating whether TV networks like CBS and PBS are operating in the public interest, as required by law. An administration official accused a Voice of America reporter of treason when he quoted someone who had criticized Trump.

Media executives and lawyers expect more of the same. The Justice Department could prosecute reporters under anti-spying laws. Some news outlets are bracing for retaliatory investigations into their compliance with immigration and tax laws.
Trump is set to impose sweeping tariffs

President Trumps threats to impose stiff tariffs on goods imported from Canada, Mexico and China are expected to become a reality today. Trump said yesterday that there was no chance for a deal to avert them. Company executives and foreign officials scrambled to prepare.

The tariffs will add a 25 percent fee on all Mexican and Canadian exports coming across those borders and an additional 10 percent for Chinese goods. Canada was poised to retaliate, potentially setting off a trade war, and Mexicos president, Claudia Sheinbaum, said: Whatever the decision is, we will also make our decisions.

Trump has described the tariffs as an effort to pressure those countries to stop the flows of migrants and deadly drugs. Howard Lutnick, the commerce secretary, said yesterday that Mexico and Canada had done a nice job on the border but that fentanyl deaths had not fallen enough.

China: The presidents threat to add another 10 percent on top of all existing Chinese tariffs has yet to get Beijing to come running with concessions.
Europe races to mend a U.S.-Ukraine rupture

Eighteen European leaders gathered yesterday in London to repair Ukraines fractured relationship with the U.S., with Britain and France assembling a coalition of the willing to develop a plan for ending the war with Russia. The leaders also pledged to bolster support for Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky.

Britain's prime minister, Keir Starmer, said a number of other nations had indicated that they would join with Britain and France in deploying troops to Ukraine in the event of a cease-fire between Kyiv and Moscow. He also announced plans to let Ukraine to use 1.6 billion pounds in British export financing to buy more than 5,000 air defense missiles.

The gathering took on more urgency after Zelenskys heated meeting with President Trump in the Oval Office on Friday, which raised fears that the U.S. would try to force Ukraine to make a peace deal on terms favorable to Russia. Neither Europe nor Ukraine currently has seats at the table in a potential Trump-brokered deal, and Trump has given Ukraine no security assurances.

Quotable: We are at a crossroads in history, Starmer said. Europe must do the heavy lifting, he declared, but added, To support peace, and to succeed, this effort must have strong U.S. backing.
Nissan Motor has suffered several setbacks in recent months.

In February, it reported a plunge in profit and cut its outlook for the third time in the past 12 months as it faces declining sales. Merger talks with Honda collapsed, and the company is scrambling to slash costs and cut thousands of jobs.

Now its bracing for what could be another shock to its business: the tariffs that President Trump is threatening to impose on goods imported from Canada and Mexico. About a third of the nearly one million cars Nissan sold in the United States last year were assembled in Mexican plants.

If it kicks in, the automakers chief executive, Makoto Uchida, said in an earnings conference call last month, that is going to be a huge impact to profit.
President Trump said Monday that sweeping tariffs on Canada and Mexico would go into effect on Tuesday, stating in remarks at the White House there was no chance for a last-minute deal to avert the levies.

The tariffs, you know, theyre all set, Mr. Trump said. They go into effect tomorrow.

Mr. Trump has proposed adding a 25 percent fee on all Mexican and Canadian exports coming across those borders and an additional 10 percent for Chinese goods, beginning just after midnight Tuesday, saying those countries have not done enough to stem the flow of drugs and migrants into the United States.

The move will increase the levies that the United States charges on foreign goods to levels not seen at least since the 1940s, and is likely to shatter regional supply chains and raise the cost of products ranging from automobiles to breast pumps and vegetables.

The tariffs are also expected to further deteriorate the U.S. relationship with its two closest neighbors, whose economies are stitched together across North America. Leaders from Canada and Mexico have been scrambling to convince Mr. Trump to change his mind by devoting more resources to policing the border.
Riders enter the racecourse in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A rider performs hada (a traditional Tibetan silk scarf that symbolizes purity and auspiciousness) collecting in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A rider performs in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Riders stage a polo match in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Riders perform in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A rider performs in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Riders celebrate after the performance in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A young rider enters the racecourse in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Riders perform in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A rider performs riding and archery in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A rider performs in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A rider performs in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A young contestant competes during a horse race in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A rider performs hada (a traditional Tibetan silk scarf that symbolizes purity and auspiciousness) collecting in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A rider performs hada (a traditional Tibetan silk scarf that symbolizes purity and auspiciousness) collecting in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A rider performs riding and archery in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

Riders perform in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jiang Fan)

A rider performs in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 2, 2025. The city of Lhasa hosted an equestrian show on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, featuring traditional equestrian performances and horse races. The riders were dressed in colorful Tibetan clothes and galloped gracefully around the racecourse in the northern suburbs of the city. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Editor: JYZ
The grocery chain Kroger said on Monday that its chief executive, Rodney McMullen, had resigned after a board investigation of his personal conduct.

Mr. McMullens conduct was not related to the companys financial performance or its operations, Kroger said in a news release, but it was inconsistent with the companys business ethics policy. His actions did not involve any Kroger workers, the company said.

The management change comes as Kroger, which has headquarters in Cincinnati, has been dealing with the fallout from its collapsed merger with the grocery chain Albertsons.

Kroger said its board learned about certain personal conduct of Mr. McMullens on Feb. 21 and immediately sought outside counsel to lead an investigation. It said the actions in question were unrelated to the business.
Eugene Daniels didnt plan on being the face of the White House press corps in the dawn of a new administration hostile to the news media.

But because of a clause in the bylaws of the White House Correspondents Association, an 800-strong group of journalists who report on the president, he was next in line after Kaitlan Collins, the CNN star who was elected 2024-25 president of the association, had to step aside because of a move to New York.

Mr. Daniels, 36, a co-author of Politicos Playbook newsletter, has now emerged as a key figure in an escalating fight between the Trump White House and the news media over press access and freedom. And hes balancing his role at the association, which is unpaid volunteer work, with his career, moving this month to a new on-air job at MSNBC.

Were all competitors, fierce competitors, and the White House beat is tough, but at the same time, when its time to stand together, folks actually do that, Mr. Daniels said of the correspondents association in an interview. Its unfortunate that this is where we are.
Trumps submission was related to a suit that he filed in federal court in 2022, claiming that CNN had defamed him by describing him as an authoritarian-minded liar and comparing him to Nazis. The suit was heard by Judge Raag Singhal, a Trump appointee who was no fan of the Sullivan decision or CNN. Yet Singhal dismissed Trumps lawsuit, noting that CNNs statements about Trump were opinions, not facts, and therefore were not defamatory.

Trump appealed last March. His lawyers disputed a number of Singhals conclusions, but they also made no secret of Trumps backup plan if the appeal failed on the merits. Plaintiff respectfully requests that the court revisit the actual-malice standard under New York Times v. Sullivan, they wrote. Recognizing this court cannot overrule Sullivan, Plaintiff makes this argument to preserve the issue in the event of further review. The next stop, in other words, would be the Supreme Court.

The sense of Sullivans fragility is already influencing news outlets. After Trump won in November, ABC News had to decide what to do about a lawsuit that Trump filed against the broadcaster eight months earlier. The anchor George Stephanopoulos described a jury as having found Trump liable for raping the writer E. Jean Carroll, when in fact he had been found liable for the lesser offense of sexual abuse. The lawsuit claimed, implausibly, that Trumps reputation was harmed by this imprecise description. The case was inching toward trial.

Executives at Disney, which owns ABC, reportedly worried about their prospects with a jury in Florida, whose voters backed Trump in each of the past three elections and presumably had little affection for the mainstream media that Trump and his allies constantly assailed. If ABC lost at trial, the network could appeal, but that set it up for protracted litigation with a president whose administration was preparing a crackdown on the media. Executives at Disney also expressed fear that the case might somehow make its way up to the Supreme Court and become a vehicle for overturning Sullivan. It felt safer to settle  a clear illustration of how the long-running campaign to delegitimize the press and weaken its First Amendment protections is already having a chilling effect on media decision makers. In December, Disney agreed to fork over $15 million to Trump for his future presidential foundation, as well as an additional $1 million to cover his legal fees.

The settlement seemed to embolden Trump. A couple of days later, he gave a news conference at Mar-a-Lago and was asked whether he planned to file more defamation lawsuits.

Oh, I do, I do, Trump replied. After listing some of the journalists and news outlets that he has sued, the president-elect added: I feel I have to do this. I shouldnt really be the one to do it  it should have been the Justice Department or somebody else  but I have to do it. It costs a lot of money to do it, but we have to straighten out the press. Our press is very corrupt. Almost as corrupt as our elections.
Movies are a collaborative art, and even the most hands-on filmmakers work with a team of artists and craftspeople. But writing, directing, editing and producing a film leaves a distinctive personal mark. Disney, who was heavily involved with his studios projects, certainly did so. Similarly, Anora audiences who know Bakers work probably spotted his fingerprints from the moment the film starts. (And not just because Baker emulates John Carpenter, Woody Allen, Stanley Kubrick and Wes Anderson by sticking with one typeface for the titles of all his films  Aguafina Script Pro, if you were wondering.)

One of Bakers hallmarks, the one people most often associate with him, is a focus on people who live on the margins of society, especially but not exclusively sex workers.

His 2015 film Tangerine, shot entirely on iPhones, is a zingy, zany comedy about transgender sex workers who go on a wild chase on Christmas Eve, shot mostly in seedier parts of Los Angeles. The Florida Project, Bakers moving 2017 drama that landed Willem Dafoe an Oscar nomination, centers on a little girl named Moonee who lives with her single mother in a budget motel just outside Orlando. Her mother cant make ends meet, and eventually begins soliciting sex work online. The star of Red Rocket, Bakers 2021 film, is a middle-aged porn star whos down on his luck.

But it would be a mistake to imagine that Bakers movies focus narrowly on sex work. Those are his characters, but the stories have a wider lens. Hes interested in the American dream, in the idea that if you just work hard enough, you can pull yourself up by your bootstraps and make something of your life. Every one of his films features characters whove tried that and found it lacking. In his films, the American dream is a fairy tale  a beautiful story we repeat to one another that for many goes sour.

Thats the story of Anora, in which the titular enterprising young woman, played by Madison, seems to be alone in the world. She has family somewhere, but we get the clear sense that shes been making it on her own for a long time. Her job at a high-end Midtown Manhattan strip club pays well enough, but more important, its where she meets her prince, who sweeps her into a fantasy world.
A man coming home from an overseas trip. Another on his way to work. A woman off to a celebratory dinner.

They were three New Yorkers riding the subway on a Sunday afternoon in September, not knowing they would soon end up in a hail of police bullets meant for Derell Mickles.

Mr. Mickles, 38, had slipped into the Sutter Avenue L station in Brooklyn without paying. Two police officers had followed him to the elevated platform, catching a glimpse of a knife in his hand. Within minutes, the police would shoot two of the passengers, Mr. Mickles and one of the officers.

The harrowing episode was a stark example of how even seemingly normal commutes can erupt in a flash of violence in a transit system officials have struggled to safeguard for the millions of New Yorkers who rely on it every day.
This is the second time Mr. Nguyen has been convicted of a felony. In 2019, he pleaded guilty to grand larceny and other charges after he was accused of stealing more than $300,000 from his employers, an older couple he worked for as a home health aide.

He served four months at Rikers, and about a year later was hired by Saint Anns, a school that charges about $60,000 per year in tuition and caters to New Yorks wealthy creative class.

A nattily dressed figure who arrived at class often in a suit and sometimes with a bow tie, Mr. Nguyen transformed a felony record from a liability into a resume-builder at a school known for embracing unconventional educators. He taught a seminar called Crime and Punishment and quickly become a fixture at the school.

It was the kind of opportunity that few felons get.

In interviews with The New York Times last week, Mr. Nguyen tried to make sense of how he squandered it all, and how he plummeted from the promise of his youth  a driven high school student, he was once honored by the mayor of Houston, his hometown, and went on to attend Columbia University  to the reality of being a 38-year-old man headed to prison for the second time in six years.

Ive hurt so many people, he said.

Mr. Nguyen declined to directly address the students he targeted  he will do so when he is sentenced, he said  but expressed remorse for the damage he caused to the school. It was an incredibly great community to me, and I really, really regret that my actions have painted them in a horrible light, he said.
I think they figured out the power of that masculinity narrative. They saw how much money and attention it was generating at the margins. It arguably helped make Joe Rogan an economic elite, just sort of like tapping into that energy. And the power of the presidency is that it can reset the bounds of what is acceptable and what is normal. And that is what he has done, he can reset normal. So he has made what was extreme just three years ago really normal, what almost feels like happened overnight. I think that this is also behind the attacks on the government.

One of the things that this strongman politics does  by giving people a scapegoat, giving men a scapegoat  is that it says not only are women the enemy, are people of color and minorities the enemy, but the government is protecting them. So not only do we need to push these people out, but we need to delegitimize and gut the government that made them possible so it doesnt happen again.

It is also, I think, very important to point out its a really effective political tool. It says that the government is the enemy, not just because it wastes your tax dollars or all of that smoke. Whats really working and mobilizing people is that its been the government thats been shielding the people that are making me lose. So its super powerful for delegitimizing the government, and thats why I think Donald Trump will continue to double down on it.

Healy: Tressie, how much is Donald Trump leading on gender and masculinity, and how much is he actually following? How much is society actually already there? Im thinking about the two genders, male and female, executive order that he put out and a lot of what he has been doing on trans athletes and womens sports. It very much can be argued that the majority of society wants these things and that Trump is, in fact, kind of following where the majority is in America as opposed to leading them toward a direction that says there are only two genders, male and female.

McMillan Cottom: Yeah, this is really interesting because I think the gender binary thing and the demonization of trans people is a great case of just how much Donald Trump is going to be able to shift our perception of normal, of what is the majority. I think thats really critical and key because one of the reasons why his powerful manipulation of content and social media and branding has been so politically corrosive is that it shifts the general voters understanding of what the majority believe.
If it were about NATO, then Mr. Putin would not have so meekly accepted Sweden and Finlands accession in 2023. Today, NATOs frontier is closer to St. Petersburg than Ukraines border is to Moscow.

Nor is the point to retain the roughly 20 percent of territory that Russia has managed to wrest from Ukraine so far in this war. Mr. Putin cannot tolerate an independent Ukraine because for the last 300 years almost none of his predecessors could. And because if Ukraine is successful as a Western democracy, it will pose a direct threat to the Russian peoples acceptance of Mr. Putins autocratic model.

Mr. Trump has made a cease-fire in Ukraine too central to his foreign policy to not succeed. He cannot fail to make a deal and he certainly cannot allow Ukraine to become what Afghanistan was to President Joe Biden, a foreign policy disaster that defined the rest of his presidency. Trapped by his own ambition, Mr. Trump craves fast success  hence last weeks attack on Mr. Zelensky, whose insistence on terms Ukraine can live with seems to stand in the way of it. Mr. Putin understands this. He therefore may concede to a cease-fire to take the maximum benefits offered by Mr. Trump, but he will not abandon his strategic goal of destroying Ukraine. Without security guarantees the war will, at some point, start again.

Fridays events were the formalization of a new reality that has been becoming apparent for several weeks: America may still seek to lead the world, but its a different world. And if there was any silver lining to the scene of Mr. Trump and Vice President JD Vance berating Mr. Zelensky in the Oval Office, it was the shock waves it sent across Europe. European leaders who had heard Mr. Vances words of admonishment at Munich in February already grasped that they could not simply wait out Mr. Trump as they did during his first term. Any who still doubted that were surely convinced by Fridays performance.

Europe has already taken important steps and its promising to do more: Summits, telephone calls, draft decisions on a surge in defense spending and announcements of assistance to Ukraine are now happening at a blistering pace. As welcome as these developments are, they fail to answer the most fundamental question about the future of Ukraine and the rest of Europe: When? When will these ideas become decisions that are carried out?
Perched atop craggy bluffs in a beachside city north of San Diego, a railroad line offers passengers a sweeping view of the Pacific Coast. But the ground beneath it is crumbling.

No one denies the problem, but a fight over how to solve it highlights a broader challenge, and a worrisome reality, for California residents: how to adapt to climate change that threatens coastal living, a way of life that has long defined the states identity, from its economy to its culture.

The segment of track on the bluffs in Del Mar, Calif., connects San Diego to the rest of the state and the country, and is part of one of the busiest intercity passenger rail corridors in the nation. But the bluffs are eroding rapidly, and the track in some places is now only a few yards from the cliff edge.

Officials and residents in Del Mar and nearby communities broadly agree that the tracks need to be moved, but argue over where they should go. The debate has slowed progress, even as climate change accelerates the risks to the bluffs and the rail line.
He had two Oscars, adoring fans and four decades of acting to his credit. He won over critics, befriended celebrities and starred in scores of films watched by millions of moviegoers. But for the past two decades, Gene Hackman found solace at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac where few neighbors ever even saw him.

Mr. Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, who were both found dead in their home just outside Santa Fe, N.M., last week, were famous for their privacy after retiring. And the revelation that Mr. Hackman probably died nine days before the couples bodies were found illustrates the seclusion of their neighborhood and just how isolated they had become.

In Santa Fe Summit, the gated community where they lived just east of the city, even some of their nearest neighbors said they had seen no sign of the couple in recent years, except for their trash cans on the side of the road, waiting to be picked up.

The couple did not attend homeowners association meetings or annual picnics, and their expansive four-bedroom home  on a quiet road called Old Sunset Trail  is hidden even from the start of the driveway.
People pose for a group photo in front of the Potala Palace in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Feb. 28, 2025. Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Friday welcomed the first day of the Tibetan New Year with a flurry of festive foods, holiday greetings and traditional customs. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

A man in Tibetan costumes eats from chema box, a two-tier rectangular wooden box containing roasted barley and fried wheat grain, which symbolizing abundant harvest, in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Feb. 28, 2025. Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Friday welcomed the first day of the Tibetan New Year with a flurry of festive foods, holiday greetings and traditional customs. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Residents in Tibetan costumes present highland barley wine in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Feb. 28, 2025. Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Friday welcomed the first day of the Tibetan New Year with a flurry of festive foods, holiday greetings and traditional customs. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

The newly decorated Potala Palace is pictured in Lhasa, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Feb. 28, 2025. Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Friday welcomed the first day of the Tibetan New Year with a flurry of festive foods, holiday greetings and traditional customs. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

Editor: JYZ
The surprise plea averted a jury trial in a crime that shocked Highland Park, Ill., a lakefront suburb of Chicago. Prosecutors said Mr. Crimo climbed onto a rooftop in downtown Highland Park on July 4, 2022, and sprayed bullets onto the crowd at the parade below. He managed to escape during the chaos, but was apprehended in a nearby town hours later.

The attack left Highland Park paralyzed with terror and grief, upending an event that was meant to celebrate freedom and community in a close-knit town. Dozens of people who were in attendance were wounded by bullets and taken to nearby hospitals. Residents were warned to stay in their homes during the search for the gunman. In the Chicago region, fireworks displays and other town gatherings to celebrate the Fourth of July were called off.

The effort to prosecute Mr. Crimo stretched for years, a tumultuous process that frustrated Highland Park residents and sparked debate over the role that Mr. Crimos father played. He had helped his son obtain a license to buy firearms before the shooting.

Eric Rinehart, the Lake County states attorney, said on Monday that he had been prepared to go to trial and present overwhelming evidence that would prove Mr. Crimos guilt.

He received nothing in exchange for this plea today, Mr. Rinehart said. We have been working for years to prepare our evidence.
The Trump administration is terminating the jobs of dozens of technology specialists whose broad portfolio of projects across the government included the I.R.S.s free tax filing software and passport services.

The specialists, who belonged to a unit at the General Services Administration known as 18F, developed software and technology products for various federal agencies, with the goal of improving efficiency and better serving the public. In an email to workers at the agencys Technology Transformation Services over the weekend, Thomas Shedd, a former Tesla engineer who is now the divisions director, said that 18F had been identified as noncritical and would be cut.

This decision was made with explicit direction from the top levels of leadership within both the administration and G.S.A., Mr. Shedd said in the email, a copy of which was obtained by The New York Times. He added that while no other Technology Transformation Services programs had been affected, we anticipate more change in the future.

In termination letters dated Friday, employees were informed that their roles would be eliminated in keeping with President Trumps orders to downsize the government. Workers have been placed on administrative leave until they are officially released at the end of April, according to copies of letters seen by The New York Times.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth continued his efforts to revive the Confederate names of military bases, announcing on Monday that he is re-renaming Fort Moore, whose previous name honored the confederate general Henry Benning.

The base, which is in Georgia, will again be called Fort Benning.

The bases name was changed in 2023 as part of a wider bipartisan effort to eliminate military honors bestowed on Confederate officers who rebelled against the Union during the Civil War. Mr. Hegseth views those changes as part of a woke culture and wants to return the bases back to their old names.

Current law does not let him do that  the military is no longer allowed to name bases after Confederate generals  so Mr. Hegseth has found other military troops with the same last names.

Last month, he announced that Fort Liberty in North Carolina would return to the name Fort Bragg, but in honor of an enlisted Army soldier named Roland L. Bragg, who fought in World War II, and not the Confederate general Braxton Bragg.
There is the theory that President Trump is still bitter about his Canadian hotel ventures that went bust.

Some, on social media, have speculated that a 2019 photograph in which Justin Trudeau appeared poised to kiss Melania Trump, the first lady, at a Group of 7 gathering in France, left Mr. Trump with a grudge against the dashing Canadian prime minister.

And then there is the transactional view, that Mr. Trump sees the acquisition of Canada as the 51st state as the ultimate real estate deal that would seal his presidential legacy.

As Mr. Trump prepares to push ahead with a new round of tariffs on the United States neighbors to the north and south, he has expressed a special brand of loathing for Canada. The bullying of a country whose most prominent stereotype is that its people are nice has led to political upheaval in Canada and created both consternation and speculation about why Mr. Trump wants to engage in a trade war with one of Americas biggest trading partners.
President Trumps executive order making English the official language of the United States reached into history to argue its case, noting that the countrys founding documents were written in English.

But it turns out, not only in English. After the Constitution was drafted in 1787, supporters of ratification printed translations for Dutch speakers in New York and German speakers in Pennsylvania, so they could understand the arguments for a vollkommenere Vereinigung  a more perfect union.

The push and pull over whether America should have one national language or embrace its polyglot spirit has generated fierce debate for more than a century, raising deeper questions about belonging and assimilation in a country whose people speak more than 350 languages.

Now, Mr. Trumps executive order puts an America first stamp onto the nations speech.

His order gave a long-sought victory to the English-only movement, which has ties to efforts to curb immigration and bilingual education. Supporters said it recognized the reality of Englishs primacy in American life. Nearly 80 percent of the population speaks only English, and immigrants have long been required to demonstrate English proficiency before becoming citizens.
The situation underscores the quandary for foreign leaders in dealing with a president as unpredictable and unconventional as Mr. Trump, who is making substantial changes to trade terms with little advance notice or preparation.

The Chinese do not want to initiate a conversation because they do not want to be seen as pleading, and are wary of offering concessions before they understand the parameters of the debate, people familiar with the discussions said. Instead, Chinese officials, academics and others close to the government have been holding discreet conversations to try to determine Mr. Trumps motives, while floating various aspects of a potential trade deal between the countries to assess the Americans reaction.

With my experience with the Chinese, they are suspicious in the initial rounds of a negotiation that there are hidden traps or other reasons to be cautious, said Michael Pillsbury, a China expert who advises the Trump administration on dealing with the country.

The Chinese side has conveyed they would like to work with the United States on mutually beneficial measures. But they have been struggling to identify people in the United States that they see as reliable channels for communication, according to a person close to the Chinese government.

They are also trying to assess the significance of some recent steps by the administration, like a memorandum that proposed strict limits on investment between the countries. Mr. Trump publicly contradicted that memo days after he signed it, saying he welcomed Chinese investment.
On the eve of President Trumps deadline to impose tariffs on Mexico, one thing is hard to miss on the Mexican side of the border: The migrants are gone.

In what were once some of the busiest sections along the border  Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, Matamoros  shelters that used to overflow now hold just a few families. The parks, hotels and vacant buildings that once teemed with people from all over the world stand empty.

And on the border itself, where migrants once slept in camps within feet of the 30-foot wall, only dust-caked clothes and shoes, rolled-up toothpaste tubes and water bottles remain.

All that is over, said the Rev. William Morton, a missionary at a Ciudad Juarez cathedral that serves migrants free meals. Nobody can cross.
It is not an exit anyone would have expected. Justin Trudeau will end his final days as Canadas prime minister with the country tossed into economic turmoil if President Trump follows through on his plan Tuesday to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian exports.

While Canadian officials have spent much of last week in Washington trying to fend off the presidents tariffs, which will also apply to Mexico, those efforts have so far been futile. If tariffs do go into effect, Canada is poised to retaliate, setting off a trade war.

Mr. Trump has offered various rationales for the tariffs, which were supposed to go into effect at the beginning of February but were suspended for 30 days. He says the United States has been destabilized by large numbers of unauthorized migrants, as well as large quantities of fentanyl, crossing the border from Canada. U.S. government statistics do not support either claim.

Mr. Trump has also claimed that Americans subsidize Canada by providing hundreds of billions of dollars a year  though he has not provided any evidence  and has urged companies to move their plants out of Canada to the United States. Mr. Trump has complained about Canadas trade surplus with the United States, which is mostly driven by oil and gas exports and totaled $63 billion last year.
Britain and France have promised to muster a coalition of the willing to secure a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia. Now comes the acid test for Europe: How many countries will step up, and does that even matter, given Russias rejection of such a coalition as part of any settlement?

Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain left those questions unanswered as he bade farewell to fellow leaders after a summit meeting in London on Sunday. He conceded that not every nation will feel able to contribute, though he expressed optimism that several would, and that this would send a signal to President Trump that Europe was ready to do the heavy lifting.

Drawing Mr. Trump back into the process is as important as the mission and scope of a European coalition, analysts say. For the moment, the United States appears determined to strike a deal with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia over the heads of Europe and Ukraine, and without any security guarantees.

Mr. Starmer presented his coalition of the willing as one of multiple steps that included continued military aid for Ukraine to improve its position on the battlefield, a seat at the table for Kyiv in any peace negotiation and further help with its defensive capabilities after a settlement. That is where the coalition would come in.
An 83-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man were killed and 11 others were injured  five severely  when a man drove a car into a lunch-hour crowd in the southwestern German city of Mannheim on Monday, the authorities said.

The driver is a 40-year-old German citizen who lived in neighboring Ludwigshafen, the police and the public attorney said on Monday evening, adding that they did not think the man had a political motive.

The police arrested the man, who was not named publicly, soon after the event and said they thought he was the only person involved. They said they believed the act was deliberate and on Monday night were searching the mans home as well as his internet history to help understand his motive.

The police said the driver had a criminal record that included assault, a drunk-driving charge and a conviction for hate speech, for a right-wing comment he made on Facebook in 2018. The man, who had worked as a landscaper, had a history of mental illness, the authorities said, and he had a weapon that fired blanks on him during the attack.
Yevhen Mahda, Executive Director of the "Institute of World Policy"



Martisor is a celebration of the arrival of spring, observed on March 1 in Bulgaria, Moldova, Romania, and several regions of Ukraine. A year ago, I proposed adding a geopolitical dimension to this tradition. Since then, the need for such optimization has only grown.

New challenges and the high level of turbulence in international relations should push official Kyiv to demonstrate its ability to strengthen regional security. Both the war against Russia and Ukraines potential necessitate this. Building good neighborly relations is one of the important and realistic tools for enhancing regional influence.

Thus, the format of a Geopolitical Martisor could be established by the states that recently joined the EU and NATO (Bulgaria and Romania) and those aspiring to EU membership (Moldova and Ukraine).

All four countries share the Black Sea basin and face various challenges. Ukraine is waging war against Russia, Bulgaria experiences significant political turbulence, and Romania and Moldova will hold complex presidential and parliamentary elections this year. Establishing an additional mechanism for strengthening positions and conducting regional consultations seems more than appropriate. It is worth recalling that during the Warsaw Pact era, Bulgaria was one of the primary ammunition producers (and is now restoring its capacities). Romania is regarded by NATO as an active player on the Alliances eastern flank, with a significant military base being developed in Mihail Kogalniceanu. Moldova will eventually have to abandon its formal neutralitythis is the logical trajectory of regional developments.

At this stage, the objectives and activities of the Geopolitical Martisor format could include:

Strengthening security in the Black Sea region amid Russias full-scale aggression against Ukraine.

Establishing a joint military unit (such as a land brigade or naval flotilla), modeled on the Lithuanian-Polish-Ukrainian Brigade named after Konstanty Ostrogski, leveraging Moldova, Romania, and Ukraines existing cooperation.

Supporting the European integration of Moldova and Ukraine, providing effective assistance to post-Soviet republics as they begin EU accession negotiations.

Countering Russias negative influence on elections in Moldova and Romania, combating fake news and disinformation about the war in Ukraine.

Promoting environmental protection of the Dniester and Danube rivers and developing joint approaches to addressing Black Sea ecological issues.

Creating conditions for improving the investment climate in Moldova and Ukraine, while enhancing prosperity in Bulgaria and Romania.

Strengthening regional energy security through participation in the Three Seas Initiative.

Coordinating positions on Black Sea usage, trade, transit, and services.

The proposed quartet is not merely a festive initiative but a pragmatic mechanism capable of effectively countering the turbulence in international relations. Therefore, consultations on its establishment should begin as soon as possible.
The popes medical prognosis remained guarded, implying that he was not out of danger as he spent his 18th day at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

Jeffrey Millstein, an internal medicine professor at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, said that such bronchial spasms are common in older people who dont always have the muscular strength to expel accumulations of mucus.

It sounds like he is struggling with the typical things that older, weaker folks struggle with when they have pneumonia, he said.

Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital with bronchitis on Feb. 14, and later was diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. That raised particular concerns given his age and the fact that as a young man, Francis had part of a lung removed.

The pope has continued to do some light work during his stay at the hospital, including by signing off on the appointment of bishops and has moved five people along the path to canonization as saints, according to the daily bulletin on the Vatican website. On Monday morning the Vatican said he had been resting well.
President Volodymyr Zelensky returned to Ukraine on Monday after a whirlwind diplomatic mission that included both humiliation, by President Trump, and a warm embrace, from European leaders. He vowed to use all diplomatic avenues to pursue an end to Ukraines war with Russia, but acknowledged there was a long way to go.

Russia has given no indication that it will accept any terms other than Ukrainian capitulation and permanent conquest of a large swath of Ukraine  and Mr. Trump makes clearer by the day that his intent is to stand with Moscow.

Ukrainians have insisted they will not lay down their arms unless they receive security guarantees, supported by the United States, that would prevent the Kremlin from regrouping and attacking again.

After a disastrous meeting with Mr. Trump on Friday, in which the American president and Vice President JD Vance berated him as being ungrateful, Mr. Zelensky received a show of support from Europes democracies on Sunday, which pledged to work with Ukraine to come up with a peace plan that it could then present to the United States.
Hollow-eyed and emaciated after nearly 500 days in captivity in Gaza, Eli Sharabi stood on a podium flanked by masked Hamas gunmen, unaware of what most Israelis already knew.

During the Hamas-led assault on Oct. 7, 2023, a dozen gunmen had burst into Mr. Sharabis house in the border community of Kibbutz Beeri, where he had been hiding in a safe room with his wife and two teenage daughters. Hoping to save them, he said he gave himself up without a fight and was taken to Gaza.

After emerging from Hamass tunnels last month, he would soon learn that his wife, Lianne, 48, and his daughters  Noiya, 16, and Yahel, 13  had been shot and killed in the family home that day, along with the familys dog, Mocha.

One of his brothers, Yossi, who was also kidnapped from Beeri, died in Gaza after 100 days in captivity.

Mr. Sharabi and several other released hostages were flying to the United States on Monday to meet this week with administration officials, including a potential audience with President Trump.

Mr. Sharabis mother and three remaining siblings rejoiced over his return on Feb. 8, part of a cease-fire involving exchanges of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. But they said they had agonized beforehand, not knowing whether he was aware of the fate of his family or how they might break the news to him.

Forced by his captors to speak during the live broadcast at his handover ceremony, Mr. Sharabi said he was happy to be returning to his wife and daughters. His surviving brother, Sharon Sharabi, told The New York Times shortly after his release that his brothers captors had told him his family was waiting.
In previous exercises, weve asked you to look at paintings and other traditional works of art, but this is a photograph of a spontaneous moment. How does that change things, if at all?

How does this photograph make you feel? Anxious? Calm? Excited? Something else?

What visual connections do you notice first? How do all of the elements in this photo relate to one another?

A few things to consider during your time:

Now lets take a breath and sink into a photo that might surprise you.

Today, we bring you a new focus challenge , in which we invite you to spend uninterrupted time looking at one piece of art. These will appear on the first Monday of each month. Sign up here if youd like to be notified.

Thanks for spending time with the photo. If you want to look a little longer, just scroll back up and press Continue.

Now, well tell you a bit about it.

In 1932, as he was walking around Paris with his small Leica camera, a young man named Henri Cartier-Bresson came upon a construction fence behind the Gare Saint-Lazare train station. He peeked through.

There, with his camera wedged between wooden slats, he saw a man running across his view and pressed the shutter. The result would become one of the most influential photographs in history.

In the frame, time seems to be stopped. The man is suspended millimeters from the water, as if he may never hit that puddle.

A second later and the photograph would have been lost to me forever, Cartier-Bresson recalled years later.

That jump is the obvious focus of the photograph, but the scene is full of visual connections. There are so many, in fact, and in such alignment, that its easy to imagine the scene as staged. In reality, the image was captured at precisely the perfect time  the decisive moment, as Cartier-Bresson would call it.

On one side, you can see its very clearly composed, said Clement Cheroux, the director of the Henri Cartier-Bresson Foundation, and formerly the chief curator of photography at the Museum of Modern Art. It looks like it was composed by a painter that was using a frame and making sure everything is at the right position. And on the other side, there is something which is related to this idea of chance encounters. These two things are completely opposed, and he was able to reconcile these two ideas.

Mr. Cheroux is our guide to this photograph today.

Photography once relied on clunky equipment and long exposures, but Cartier-Bressons Leica was hand-held and allowed him to snap quick pictures like this one. It took him exactly three days to master the new camera, he told The New Yorker in 1989.

He prowled the streets of Paris looking for what Mr. Cheroux called small miracles. This is his most famous.

At the start of your time, you might have noticed this delightful connection, with the shape of our puddle jumper and the poster of the dancer in the background:



But there are other doubles in the image, too. These two men, and their double reflections:



The doubled dancer posters (and their reflections):



The words RAILOWSKY RAILOWSKY (and their reflections):

(Its actually a poster  probably an advertisement  for Alexander Brailowsky, a pianist. The B is hidden.)



To Mr. Cheroux, all the mirroring has a psychological effect, evoking the feeling you might get with an inkblot or a Rorschach test.

You are projecting yourself into this inkblot, he said. You want to find significance or a sense of meaning in this doubling effect. I truly believe that this is part of the fascination of this image.

At the end of the 1920s, Mr. Cheroux said, Cartier-Bresson was influenced by the Surrealist group  writers, poets, artists who held court in cafes challenging conventional wisdom and exploring ideas that came from the unconscious mind.

All the Surrealists were into the idea of the chance encounter, he said. The whole idea that where you were walking in the streets of Paris and you were encountering: encountering people, encountering beautiful things, encountering just light, beautiful light, or encountering a strange situation.

Cartier-Bresson caught these moments throughout his career, like at the top of a spiral staircase in France, with a bicycle whizzing by:



And here in Greece, a young girl in an Escheresque scene, dashing through the shadows:



Notice the black border on these two images. Notably, Cartier-Bresson said he never cropped his photographs, leaving the edges of the film to show the full frame, as he would have seen it through his viewfinder.

But our image is an exception. If you look at the original negative, the blurred shadow of a fence post crept into the frame. This decisive moment was nearly spoiled, but it was saved by the final crop.

By all accounts, he took great joy in these moments of visual connection.

For him, photography was a kind of meditation, Mr. Cheroux said. Even if everything is going faster today, I truly believe that photography is a way of slowing, slowing down the pace of the world.

It almost seems impossible that all these elements lined up on that day in 1932 and that one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century was right there to see it.

But the truth is, even if Cartier-Bresson had not been there to capture it, the man would have still jumped, still looked like the dancer on the poster in the background and still had a perfect reflection.

As his career proved, these small miracles are around us all the time  whether were looking or not.

You may be holding a camera in your hand right now. Maybe go take a walk and tell us what you see.
The drastic shift is changing the way wars may be fought in the future.

They now cause about 70 percent of deaths and injuries, commanders say.

Today, drones do most of the killing, commanders say.

After Russia invaded, artillery, missiles, tanks and trench warfare dominated the fight, often echoing the World Wars.

The war in Ukraine has changed  and its deadlier than ever.

Drones have changed the war in Ukraine, with soldiers adapting off-the-shelf models and swarming the front lines.

A Thousand Snipers in the Sky: The New War in Ukraine

When a mortar round exploded on top of their American-made Bradley infantry fighting vehicle, the Ukrainian soldiers inside were shaken but not terribly worried, having been hardened by artillery shelling over three years of war.

But then the small drones started to swarm.

They targeted the weakest points of the armored Bradley with a deadly precision that mortar fire doesnt possess. One of the explosive drones struck the hatch right above where the commander was sitting.

It tore my arm off, recounted Jr. Sgt. Taras, the 31-year-old commander who, like others, used his first name in accordance with Ukrainian military protocols.

Scrambling for a tourniquet, Sergeant Taras saw that the teams driver had also been hit, his eye blasted from its socket.

The two soldiers survived. But the attack showed how an ever-evolving constellation of drones  largely off-the-shelf technologies that are being turned into killing machines at breakneck speed  made the third year of war in Ukraine deadlier than the first two years combined, according to Western estimates.

Drones, not the big, heavy artillery that the war was once known for, inflict about 70 percent of all Russian and Ukrainian casualties, said Roman Kostenko, the chairman of the defense and intelligence committee in Ukraines Parliament. In some battles, they cause even more  up to 80 percent of deaths and injuries, commanders say.

When President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia sent troops storming into Ukraine three years ago, setting off the biggest ground war in Europe since World War II, the West rushed billions of dollars in conventional weapons into Ukraine, hoping to keep Russia at bay.

The insatiable battlefield demands nearly emptied NATO nations stockpiles.

THE WAR IN 2022 Howitzer Tanks Dragons teeth Tanks Trenches Howitzer Mined fields THE WAR IN 2022 Howitzer Tanks Dragons teeth Trenches Tanks Howitzer Mined fields THE WAR IN 2022 Howitzer Dragons teeth Tanks Tanks Trenches Howitzer Mined fields THE WAR IN 2022 Dragons teeth Howitzer Tanks Tanks Trenches Howitzer Mined fields THE WAR IN 2025 Attack drone Drone pilots Surveillance drone First-person view (FPV) drone Jammer system Optical wire Anti-drone netting Armed land drone THE WAR IN 2025 Attack drone Drone pilots Surveillance drone FPV drone Jammer system Optical wire Anti-drone netting Armed land drone THE WAR IN 2025 Attack drone Drone pilots Surveillance drone FPV drone Optical wire Anti-drone netting Armed land drone Jammer system THE WAR IN 2025 Attack drone Drone pilots Surveillance drone First-person view (FPV) drone Jammer system Optical wire Anti-drone netting Armed land drone The war became a race between the West and Russia to pour conventional weapons, like shells and tanks, into the fight, turning eastern Ukraine into an artillery shooting gallery. An illustration of a battlefield with elements from three years ago Now, drones rule the battlefield. They have far surpassed conventional arms as the war's most lethal weaponry. An illustration of the warfare in the present day in Ukraine. Illustration depicts a sample of technologies used.

The war has killed and wounded more than a million soldiers in all, according to Ukrainian and Western estimates. But drones now kill more soldiers and destroy more armored vehicles in Ukraine than all traditional weapons of war combined, including sniper rifles, tanks, howitzers and mortars, Ukrainian commanders and officials say.

Until recently, the clanging, metallic explosions from incoming artillery, ringing out around the clock, epitomized the war. Ukrainian soldiers raced at high speed in armored personnel carriers or pickup trucks, screeching to a stop and spilling out to run for cover in bunkers.

The artillery gave soldiers a sense of impersonal danger  the dread that you could die any moment from the bad luck of a direct hit.

The funeral for Yaroslav Yarotskyi, 25, who was killed along with eight other Ukrainian soldiers when a drone hit their position in a front line trench in the Luhansk region in November 2023. Mauricio Lima for The New York Times

The conflict now bears little resemblance to the wars early battles, when Russian columns lumbered into towns and small bands of Ukrainian infantry moved quickly, using hit-and-run tactics to slow the larger enemy.

The trenches that cut scars across hundreds of miles of the front are still essential for defense, but today most soldiers die or lose limbs to remote-controlled aircraft rigged with explosives, many of them lightly modified hobby models. Drone pilots, in the safety of bunkers or hidden positions in tree lines, attack with joysticks and video screens, often miles from the fighting.

Speeding cars or trucks no longer provide protection from faster-flying drones. Soldiers hike for miles, ducking into cover, through drone-infested territory too dangerous for jeeps, armored personnel carriers or tanks. Soldiers say it has become strangely personal, as buzzing robots hunt specific cars or even individual soldiers.

It is, they say, a feeling of a thousand snipers in the sky.

You can hide from artillery, said Bohdan, a deputy commander with the National Police Brigade. But drones, he said, are a different kind of nightmare.

A "dragon drone" spits out molten metal at 4,400 degrees Fahrenheit over enemy lines before crashing. Handout video | 68th Separate Jaeger Brigade of Ukraine An FPV drone launched an attack on a Russian ground unmanned vehicle. Ukraine's 72nd Mechanized Brigade via Telegram An FPV attack drone launches itself at an enemy surveillance Mavic-3 drone to disable it. Ukraines 47th Mechanized Brigade Magura via Telegram

The wars evolution could have major geopolitical implications.

As the precarious relations between Ukraine and the Trump administration threaten future military aid, the kind of conventional weaponry that the Americans have spent billions of dollars providing Ukraine is declining in importance.

Of the 31 highly sophisticated Abrams tanks that the United States provided Ukraine in 2023, 19 have been destroyed, disabled or captured, with many incapacitated by drones, senior Ukrainian officials said. Nearly all of the others have been taken off the front lines, they added.

Drones, by contrast, are much cheaper and easier to build. Last year, they helped make up for the dwindling supplies of Western-made artillery and missiles sent to Ukraine. The sheer scale of their wartime production is staggering.

Ukrainian officials said they had made more than one million first-person-view, or FPV, drones in 2024. Russia claims it can churn out 4,000 every day. Both countries say they are still scaling up production, with each aiming to make three to four million drones in 2025.

Reports of drone attacks in Ukraine Researchers say drone attacks, especially those by FPV drones, are so ubiquitous that the total number is impossible to log. But the number of attacks reported by the Ukrainian defense ministry and other sources has risen dramatically. 2,000 Reported attacks peaked in the fall as Russia retaliated for Ukraines invasion of the Kursk region. 1,600 1,200 800 400 0 Feb. 2022 Jan. 2023 Jan. 2024 Jan. 2025 2,000 Reported attacks peaked in the fall as Russia retaliated for Ukraines invasion of the Kursk region. 1,600 1,200 800 400 0 Feb. 2022 Jan. 2023 Jan. 2024 Jan. 2025 Source: Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project Note: Data does not capture all attacks and shows only those that were reported. Data as of January 31, 2025 The New York Times

Theyre being deployed far more often, too. With each year of the war, Ukraines military has reported huge increases in drone attacks by Russian forces.

2024 2022 2023 2,600+ reported attacks 4,700+ reported attacks 13,800+ reported attacks Most of the attacks are near the front lines. Sumy Sumy Sumy Lviv Lviv Lviv Kyiv Kyiv Kyiv Kharkiv Kharkiv Kharkiv Luhansk Luhansk Luhansk Odesa Odesa Odesa +200 Kherson Kherson Nikopol is one of the cities with the most reports, with more than 200 in 2024. 1 Reports of drone attacks CRIMEA CRIMEA CRIMEA 2022 2023 2,600+ reported attacks 4,700+ reported attacks Most of the attacks are near the front lines. Sumy Sumy Lviv Lviv Kyiv Kyiv Kharkiv Kharkiv Luhansk Luhansk Odesa Odesa Kherson Kherson CRIMEA CRIMEA 2024 13,800+ reported attacks Sumy Lviv +200 Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk 1 Reports of drone attacks Odesa Nikopol is one of the cities with the most reports, with more than 200 in 2024. CRIMEA 2022 2,600+ reported attacks Most of the attacks are near the front lines. Sumy Lviv Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk Odesa Kherson +200 1 CRIMEA Reports of drone attacks 2023 4,700+ reported attacks Sumy Lviv Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk Odesa Kherson CRIMEA 2024 13,800+ reported attacks Sumy Lviv Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk Odesa Nikopol is one of the cities with the most reports, with more than 200 in 2024. CRIMEA 2022 2,600+ reported attacks Most of the attacks are near the front lines. Sumy Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk Odesa Kherson CRIMEA +200 1 2023 Drone attack reports 4,700+ reported attacks Sumy Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk Odesa Kherson CRIMEA 2024 13,800+ reported attacks Sumy Kyiv Kharkiv Luhansk Odesa Nikopol is one of the cities with the most reports, with more than 200 in 2024. CRIMEA Source: Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project Note: Data does not capture all attacks and shows only those that were reported. The New York Times

Ukraine has followed suit, firing more drones last year than the most common type of large-caliber artillery shells. The commander of Ukraines drone force, Colonel Vadym Sukharevsky, says Ukraine is now pursuing a robots first military strategy.

However effective they may be, the drones fall far short of meeting all of Ukraines war needs and cannot simply replace the demand for conventional weapons, commanders warn. Heavy artillery and other long-range weapons remain essential for many reasons, they say, including protecting troops and targeting command-and-control outposts or air-defense systems.

But the emerging dominance of drones could change the nature of warfare itself, leaders note.

The battlefield tactics shaping Ukraine are sure to be emulated by Western allies and adversaries alike, including Iran, North Korea and China.

The war is a mix of World War I and World War III  what could be a future war, said NATOs supreme allied commander for transformation, Adm. Pierre Vandier of France.

A member of Ukraines 28th Separate Mechanized Brigade retreating after firing at a Russian position in Ukraines eastern Donetsk region in March 2023. Tyler Hicks/The New York Times

Soldiers assembling first-person-view drones inside a destroyed home near the frontline in the Donetsk region of Ukraine in March 2024. David Guttenfelder for The New York Times

NATO just opened a joint training center with Ukrainian soldiers to develop new warfighting strategies with A.I., advanced analytics and other machine-learning systems.

Admiral Vandier said it was vital not just for the current war, but also to understand how the changes playing out across Ukraine can prepare NATO for future conflicts.

A war is a learning process, and so NATO needs to learn from the war, he added.

The pace of advances has astonished even close observers of the war, forcing many to rethink the viability of weapons that cost millions of dollars on a battlefield where they can be destroyed by a drone that costs a few hundred dollars.

Drones armed with shotguns are now shooting down other drones. Antiaircraft drones are being designed to take out surveillance drones flying higher in the sky. Larger drones are being developed to serve as motherships for swarms of small drones, increasing the distance they can fly and kill.

A Russian fiber-optic FPV drone hits an Abrams tank operated by the Ukrainian military in Russias Kursk region. @Heroiam_Slava via X Ukrainian drones attack Russian military vehicles clad in extra armor. Ukraines 3rd Mechanized Battalion of the Separate Presidential Brigade Bulava via Telegram A Russian soldier drives through military vehicles destroyed by Ukrainian drones in footage shared by Russian bloggers. Zona Pravda via Telegram

The proliferation of drones, many equipped with powerful cameras, has also provided a closer glimpse of the fighting in frontline areas often inaccessible to journalists. The New York Times analyzed dozens of video clips posted online by military units on both sides of the war. While these videos are sometimes used for promotional purposes, they also help illustrate how new battlefield technologies are reshaping the war.

Drones, of course, were deployed in the earliest days of the invasion as well. When Russian armored columns streamed into Ukraine at the start of the war, some civilians  calling themselves the Space Invaders  organized through an informal chat group to help defend the country. They quickly modified their own drones to drop hand grenades and other munitions on the advancing enemy soldiers.

Those ad hoc weapons have become so common that one of those early defenders, Serhiy, said he was later attacked by the same kind of bomber drone he had developed.

I was wounded by the same technology I worked with, said Serhiy, using his first name for fear of retribution from Russia.

Common drones in the battlefield in Ukraine Both sides use cheap, often homemade FPV drones for attacks. The commercial DJI Mavic-3 is also used by both sides, but mainly for short-range reconnaissance. Mavic-3 FPV 2ft Used by both sides Qods Mohajer-6 Russia Zala Lancet Russia TU-141 Ukraine Geran Larger wing spans are required for mid- to long-range reconnaissance. Many models have been used, including the Soviet-era TU-141, repurposed by the Ukrainians for long-range strikes. Russia The Gerans, used in long range-strikes, are a Russian designation for the Iranian designed Shaheds. Ukraine said Russia used a Geran-2 to damage the former Chernobyl nuclear plant's protective shelter on Feb. 14. Dovbush-T10 Ukraine Small underwing FPV drone The Dovbush T10 is a transport drone that can drop grenades on the battlefield or even carry small FPV attack drones. The Russian-manufactured Orlan is a small, fixed-wing aircraft used mostly for reconnaissance. It has also been adapted for other purposes, including dropping grenades. STC Orlan-10 Russia Both sides use cheap, often homemade FPV drones for attacks. The commercial DJI Mavic-3 is also used by both sides, but mainly for short-range reconnaissance. 2ft Mavic-3 FPV Used by both sides Zala Lancet Russia Qods Mohajer-6 Russia Larger wing spans are required for mid- to long-range reconnaissance. Many models have been used, including the Soviet-era TU-141, repurposed by the Ukrainians for long-range strikes. TU-141 Ukraine STC Orlan-10 Russia The Russian-manufactured Orlan is a small, fixed-wing aircraft used mostly for reconnaissance. It has also been adapted for other purposes, including dropping grenades. Dovbush-T10 Ukraine The Dovbush T10 is a transport drone that can drop grenades on the battlefield or even carry small FPV attack drones. Small underwing FPV drone The Gerans, used in long-range strikes, are a Russian designation for the Iranian designed Shaheds. Ukraine said Russia used a Geran-2 to damage the former Chernobyl nuclear plant's protective shelter on Feb. 14. Geran Russia Mavic-3 FPV Used by both sides Both sides use cheap, often homemade FPV drones for attacks. The commercial DJI Mavic-3 is also used by both sides, but mainly for short-range reconnaissance. 2ft STC Orlan-10 Russia The Russian-manufactured Orlan is a small, fixed-wing aircraft used mostly for reconnaissance. It has also been adapted for other purposes, including dropping grenades. Qods Mohajer-6 Russia Small underwing FPV drone The Dovbush T10 is a transport drone that can drop grenades on the battlefield or even carry small FPV attack drones. Dovbush-T10 Ukraine Geran Russia The Gerans, used in long-range strikes, are a Russian designation for the Iranian designed Shaheds. Ukraine said Russia used a Geran-2 to damage the former Chernobyl nuclear plant's protective shelter on Feb. 14. Zala Lancet Russia Larger wing spans are required for mid- to long-range reconnaissance. Many models have been used, including the Soviet-era TU-141, repurposed by the Ukrainians for long-range strikes. TU-141 Ukraine Sources: New York Times reporting; news reports; photographs and videos released by Russian and Ukrainian authorities The New York Times

The Ukrainians make use of a wide range of explosives to arm drones. They drop grenades, mortar rounds or mines on enemy positions. They repurpose anti-tank weapons and cluster munitions to fit onto drones, or they use anti-personnel fragmentation warheads and others with thermobaric charges to destroy buildings and bunkers.

Capt. Viacheslav, commander of Ukraines 68th Separate Jaeger Brigades strike drone company, scrolled through his phone to show some of the 50 types of munitions the Ukrainians use.

This is called White Heat, with over 10 kilograms of explosives, he said. It burns through everything.

This one is called Dementor, like in Harry Potter, he added. Its black, and its a 120-millimeter mortar. We just repurpose it. This ones called Bead. This is Kardonitik. The guys really like it.

The proliferation of drones inevitably gave rise to widespread electronic warfare  tools to jam the radio signals that most drones need to fly.

Tens of thousands of jammers have been littered across Ukraines front lines to disable drones, cluttering the electromagnetic spectrum that also enables GPS, military communications, navigation, radar and surveillance.

The jammers have made it much harder for even skilled Ukrainian pilots to hit their targets, Ukrainian soldiers and commanders said.

That has fueled innovative ways of overcoming jamming.

A Ukrainian soldier uses an anti-drone system to jam frequencies and counter Russian drones, in a forest in eastern Ukraine in February 2024. Tyler Hicks/The New York Times

Ukrainian engineers have built drones and robots with frequency hoppers, automatically switching from one radio signal to another to evade jammers.

Surveillance drones that guide themselves with A.I.  instead of being remotely operated by radio  are starting to take flight, too. Last fall, a drone being tested by the American company Shield A.I. found two Russian Buk SA-11 surface-to-air missile launchers, and sent their location to Ukrainian forces to strike.

Ukraine and Russia have also reached back to older technologies to thwart jammers, including tethering drones to thin fiber-optic cables that can stretch for more than 10 miles.

With its long tail, the drone remains connected to a controller, so it doesnt need to use radio signals, rendering it immune to jamming.

Russia has been quicker to churn out these fiber-optic workarounds on a mass scale, partnering with Chinese factories to make the spools of cable for the fly-by-wire drones, Ukrainian officials say.

In recent videos from the front lines, fiber-optic cables crisscross fields, glinting in the sun. The production of this new weapon follows a pattern in the war: Ukraine has a broader variety of new designs, but Russia has a numerical advantage, able to make them more quickly.

Fiber-optic cables stretch above homes near Pokrovsk, Ukraine. Handout video | Ukrainian military drone pilot A soldier walks along a road in the Kursk region where fiber optic lines have been left behind by drones. @GrandpaRoy2 via X The unspooling mechanism of a Russian fiber-optic drone. PGITechnology via Telegram

Other adaptations to the swirl of drones are surprisingly low-tech. Soldiers cover tanks in anti-drone netting or makeshift structures of metal sheets, with rubber and logs nestled between to protect them.

On the front lines, vehicles carry extra armor as a low-tech way to protect themselves from drones. This vehicle seen in the Sumy region in January was covered with extra wire netting for protection. Finbarr O'Reilly for The New York Times

Ground drones have also been thrust onto Ukraines battlefields at a time when they are still being tested by many modern militaries.

The so-called battle bots sometimes look like remote-controlled toy cars with puffy tires or small tanks on tracks, scattering land mines, carrying ammunition or helping to evacuate the wounded. They have been packed with explosives to slam into enemy positions and outfitted with machine guns and other weapons.

In December, the 13th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine carried out what the Ukrainian military said was the first fully robotic combined arms assault in combat.

Russian forces tried to destroy the remote-controlled vehicles with mortars and by dropping explosives from their own drones, said Lt. Volodymyr Dehtyaryov, a brigade spokesman. Soldiers were kept at a distance, operating from a bunker behind the Ukrainian front line.

Drones show that the one who is quicker to adapt, he said, wins the war.

The 108th Separate Battalion Da Vinci Wolves of Ukraine training with unmanned land drones in the Donbas region this month. Tyler Hicks/The New York Times

Air defenses remain one of Ukraines most urgent needs, so much so that the F-16 jets that NATO countries have donated mostly fly air patrol and other defensive missions, rather than attacking. But A.I. is about to enter the picture, commanders hope  particularly to counter Russian bombs.

Russia has outfitted its Soviet-era bombs with pop-out wings and satellite navigation, turning them into guided munitions called glide bombs. More than 51,000 of them have been dropped on Ukrainian cities, towns and positions near the front, the Ukrainian military says. It has tried to intercept them, including by shooting them down with costly missiles. But it does not always succeed.

So NATO is trying to use artificial intelligence and other machine learning to find patterns in glide bomb attacks, hoping to intercept or jam them more precisely, NATO officials said.

Ukrainian officials say they have also made strides in drone-on-drone warfare to bolster traditional air defenses.

Small quadcopter drones can now spring off the ground and crash into long-range Russian drones. Ukraine also recently claimed to have developed a laser weapon that can hit low-flying aircraft, including the Iranian-designed Shahed drones that Russia has used since the wars early days.

Long-range weapons are also a priority. Russia has launched more than 10,000 missile strikes across Ukraine and is continually replenishing its missile arsenal. Ukraine, by comparison, has depended on a limited number of Western-made weapons to hit targets far inside Russia, and some of them are so old that officials in Kyiv doubt their effectiveness.

Russian soldiers preparing a Lancet drone to launch it in an undisclosed location in Ukraine, in a photograph shared by Russias Defense Ministry. Russian Defense Ministry Press Service, via Associated Press

As an alternative, Ukraine has developed long-range drones to attack Russia at distances that would have been unthinkable when the war started. Some have struck more than 700 miles beyond the front, and it is not uncommon for more than 100 long-range attack drones to fly into Russia and Ukraine on any given night.

At sea the battle is no less surprising, especially given that Ukraine started the war with almost no navy.

For months, Russian warships, visible from shore, menaced the coast of Odesa, one of Ukraines biggest cities. Even after the Ukrainians sank the flagship of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, using domestically produced Neptune anti-ship missiles, the Kremlin effectively blockaded Ukrainian ports.

Three years later, Russian ships rarely enter the northwestern Black Sea, while its navy has pulled most of its valuable assets from ports in the occupied Crimean Peninsula, fearing Ukrainian attack.

Crude Ukrainian robotic vessels packed with explosives sail hundreds of miles across choppy waters to target enemy ships. Russias fleet in the Crimean port of Sevastopol now has layers of buoys and barriers to protect itself against naval drones.

Multiple lines of buoys and barriers protect against Ukraines naval drones. Konstantinovskaya Fort Sevastopol Bay Black Sea Barriers against naval drones Pivdenna bay Russias Black Sea Fleet headquarters Ukraine attacked the headquarters in Sept. 2023. Russian warships 1,000 ft Multiple lines of buoys and barriers protect against Ukraines naval drones. Konstantinovskaya Fort Sevastopol Bay Black Sea Barriers against naval drones Pivdenna bay Russias Black Sea Fleet headquarters Ukraine attacked the headquarters in Sept. 2023. 1,000 ft Russian warships Multiple lines of buoys and barriers protect against Ukraines naval drones. Konstantinovskaya Fort Black Sea Sevastopol Bay  mile Barriers against naval drones Pivdenna bay Russias Black Sea Fleet headquarters Ukraine attacked the headquarters in Sept. 2023. Russian warships 1,000 ft Konstantinovskaya Fort Multiple lines of buoys and barriers protect against Ukraines naval drones. Sevastopol Bay Black Sea 1,000 ft Barriers against naval drones Pivdenna bay Russian warships Russias Black Sea Fleet headquarters Ukraine attacked the headquarters in Sept. 2023. 1,000 ft Source: Satellite image by BlackSky, July 2023. The New York Times

Ukraine often sends its drones to hunt in wolf packs, hoping the lead drone can blast a path for those that follow.

The commander of Ukraines naval forces, Vice Adm. Oleksiy Neizhpapa, said that while traditional naval weapons and warships remained necessary, drones have ushered in a new era in maritime operations.

This is not just a tactical tool but a strategic shift in the approach to naval warfare, Admiral Neizhpapa said in a statement, crediting the drones with altering the balance of power in the Black Sea. American military leaders have noted the Ukrainian approach to see if there are lessons should China make a move to attack Taiwan.

Sea drones at an undisclosed location in Ukraine in December 2023. Brendan Hoffman for The New York Times

Taken together, what has unfolded in the wars first three years has made some Western leaders question longstanding military assumptions.

I think were moving to technological warfare, President Alexander Stubb of Finland said at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, in January. Not only the Ukrainians are a step ahead of us, which I think is great, but the Russians are adapting to a new situation as well.

So we really need to think about collective defense comprehensively, he said. The advancements are so quick that all of us need to be alert to that.
A 19-year-old Connecticut youth is taking legal action against her former public high school for failing her by allowing her to graduate with honors when she was basically illiterate.

Last June, Aleysha Ortiz graduated from Hartford Public High School in Hartford, Connecticut, with honors and even earned a college scholarship, but she is now suing her former school for negligent infliction of emotional distress. The 19-year-old is accusing the public learning institution of neglecting her education, claiming she can barely hold a pencil in her hand and her reading abilities are comparable to a first-grader. Born in Puerto Rico, Aleysha exhibited learning difficulties at a young age, and her roubles continued after she moved to the US at age 5. She claims her school and the special teacher appointed to her case were of little help until a month before graduation when they finally conducted the additional testing she had been asking for and realized she was virtually illiterate. School district officials told the youth that she could defer accepting the graduation diploma in exchange for intensive services. She refused.

Photo: Kenny Eliason/Unsplash

I decided, they had 12 years, now its my time, Ortiz told CNN, adding that she went on to graduate with honors from Hartford Public High School, which usually means a student has demonstrated academic excellence.

But how could Aleysha Ortiz graduate high school with honors when she couldnt read and write? Stranger still, how did she get accepted to the University of Connecticut? She claims modern apps were a huge help. She used smartphone apps to translate text to speech and speech to text, even using them to fill out the college application and write the required essay. Being a college student has been an entirely different situation, however. Aleysha admits she has been struggling and stopped attending classes in early February. She wanted to take time off for mental health treatment but hopes to return to classes soon.



Aleysha claims that she sued her former school because she wants its leaders to be held accountable for what she has experienced. She claims that they dont know what theyre doing and dont care, and she hopes that her legal battle will prevent other youths from basically having their education stolen.

Im a very passionate person and I like to learn, Ortiz said. People took that opportunity for me to learn, and now Im in college and I wanna take advantage of that. Because this is my education.
A young Chinese man who had been experiencing severe headaches lately was shocked to learn that he had been living with a bullet in the left side of his skull for about two decades.

Xiao Chen (pseudonym), a 28-year-old man from Shenzen, had been suffering from random headaches for as long as he could remember, only lately they had been getting more frequent and more severe. At first, Chen thought that the pain was caused by his lack of sufficient sleep on weekdays, but sleeping wasnt the answer, especially since the headaches kept him up at night. Finally, things got so bad that he decided to go to the hospital, where doctors discovered a rather bizarre cause of the pain.

While performing an MRI, doctors at the Shenzhen University General Hospital discovered a strange object lodged in the left side of Xiao Chens skull. Closer inspection revealed the small object to be a metal bullet, so the hospital staff asked the patient if he had any idea how it had gotten there.

Interestingly, Chen remembered that when he was about 8-years-old, he and his brother were playing with an air gun at home, when the gun accidentally went off, shooting him in the side of the head. He and his brother were afraid of being scolded by their parents, so they didnt say a thing, and the wound was covered up by his hair, so the parents couldnt really see it. Plus, the wound wasnt too painful, so he eventually forgot about it.

Doctors told the 28-year-old that he was lucky to be alive, as the bullet was really close to the temple, but hadnt fully penetrated the skull, or hit the brain. He was scheduled for emergency surgery at the end of last month and the 20-year-old bullet, which measured about 1 cm in length and about 0.5 cm in diameter, was successfully removed. Chen has since been discharged and is recovering at home.

This weird news story reminded us of a similar case we featured recently, about a man who lived with a spoon tuck in his esophagus for a whole year, without even knowing it was there.
Russian media outlets have been hailing a Russian soldier as a hero for allegedly continuing to fight in the Kursk region for a week after getting shot in the head.

The unnamed man, reportedly a member of the 155th Marine Brigade of Russias Pacific Fleet, was fighting Ukrainian troops in Kursk when he got shot. At the time, his helmet was blown off of his head, but he thought the bullet must have ricocheted from it. He developed a hematoma above his right eye which eventually caused his eye to swallow shut, but he just went about his business, thinking the swelling would heal on its own. It was only after suffering another shrapnel-related injury that the man ended up in the hospital and learned that the bullet that had knocked his helmet off had actually pierced his skull and was lodged in his brain.

A photo of the soldier after suffering the bizarre injury shows a visibly damaged combat helmet and his swallowed eye, but its unclear how neither he nor other fellow soldiers noticed a bullet wound. The man allegedly continued fighting for another week without any complications other than his inflamed eyelid.

It was only after performing an X-ray exam for shrapnel that Russian doctors discovered a large rifle bullet stuck in the soldiers brain. They deemed his case a rare miracle, and now the man is being praised for his resilience. Some are even calling for the Russian military to honor him with a medal.

This unusual tale is reminiscent of another incredible war story, that of American Civil War soldier Jacob Miller who lived for 50 years after getting shot in the forehead with a musket and having a metal ball lodged in his brain. Photos of him with a visible hole in his forehead are still doing the rounds on social media today.
Richard Torrenzano

Last week, Jeff Bezos just did something rare in todays media landscape: he embraced common sense.

Under his ownership, The Washington Post, in a bold declaration on X, Bezos made it crystal clear: "We are going to be writing every day in support and defense of two pillars: personal liberties and free markets. Well cover other topics too, of course, but viewpoints opposing those pillars will be left to be published by others."

Washington Post pivots to reality, some are outraged

No corporate jargon. No hedging. Just an unflinching commitment to the ideas that have fueled prosperity for centuries.

This isnt about left or rightits about reality. Free people make better choices than bureaucrats. Free markets drive innovation, not government mandates. These arent controversial ideas; they form the foundation of Americas success.

Modern media abandoned intellectual diversity embracing government intervention, redistribution and top-down control. Challenge that orthodoxy, and youre suddenly labeled an outlier.

Washington Post editorial page editor David Shipley is stepping down and his exit speaks volumes. If a veteran journalist cant lead an opinion section that unapologetically supports liberty and free enterprise, the problem isnt Bezoss visionits a media culture that treats these values as fringe.

Who loses when a newspaper champions free markets and individual autonomy? Only those who see journalism as a weapon, not a pursuit of truth. Bezos isnt limiting The Posthes broadening it. The paper will still host diverse views, but it wont treat liberty as negotiable.

This isnt ideology. Its a return to fundamentals

Media is undergoing significant upheaval, reshaped by four key forces: technology, legal battles, declining trust and a move away from ideological content.

Artificial intelligence (AI), algorithms and social platforms increasingly control what content is seen. Meanwhile, lawsuits and government pressure evaluate whether speech remains a right or a privilege controlled by those in power.

As public confidence erodes and advertising revenue shrinks, media are forced to abandon partisan narratives, scrambling to balance credibility, profitability and relevance in a rapidly changing cultural shift.

On noteworthy change that has taken place over the last several years is: 22 million people read newspapers each day-- while 63 million listen to talk radio each day. That is impact.

CNN and MSNBC are cutting staff and scaling back partisan content as trust and ad revenue decline.

CNN is shifting toward a global digital strategy, while MSNBCs restructuringincluding cuts to Rachel Maddows teamsignals a retreat from ideological programming.

ABCs The View co-host Sunny Hostin even had to read legal notes on-air retracting misinformation, raising credibility concerns.

Meanwhile, Defamation lawsuits against major media outlets are surging, as legal pushback against misinformation intensifies.

Rising lawsuits show public figures and businesses wont tolerate reckless media, forcing news outlets to weigh accuracy against sensationalism.

Biden's plan to control the Internet is hacked by public backlash

The Biden administrations push to control online speech sparked fierce backlash from legal, political and corporate forces.

Lawsuits from Missouri and Louisiana accused the government of pressuring social media to silence certain viewpoints, leading to court rulings that upheld First Amendment protections.

Public outrage forced Bidens Department of Homeland Security to shut down its Disinformation Governance Board, widely seen as an attempt to police speech under the guise of fighting misinformation.

Congressional investigations exposed federal agencies secretly pressuring tech companies to remove content, fueling concerns over government overreach.

Even Mark Zuckerberg admitted regret for complying with White House demands to censor debates on COVID-19 and election integrity.

This battle isnt just legalits a defining fight over free speech in the digital age, where government power, tech influence and public resistance collide.

The Constitutions Framers would not recognize media in 2025

Today, anyone with a smartphone, blog or social media account can publish content instantly, reaching millions without institutional oversight.

This dissolves the historical distinction between the public and the press, making every citizen a potential journalist, commentator or influencer.

When an individual posts content and identifies as a citizen journalist, they are not only shielded by the First Amendments freedom of the press clausebut also by the broader freedom of speech clausemaking their voice indistinguishable from that of professional reporters.

In this new era, where the lines between truth and narrative blur, the democratization of information brings both unprecedented opportunities and profound challenges.

As we stand at the crossroads of an AI, cyber and digital revolution, the question lingers: in a world where everyone can speak, should anyone decide what we hear?

Today, communications professionals must earn trust in a world where audiences fact-check instantly and media credibility is under fire. Those who master authenticity, transparency and agility will not just shape the conversation but define the future of brand and communication. This is the only way to manage the narrative.

***

Opinions personal. Richard Torrenzano is chief executive of The Torrenzano Group, which helps organizations take control of how they are perceived. For nearly a decade, he was a member of the New York Stock Exchange management (policy) and Executive (operations) committees. His new book Command the Conversation: Next Level Communications Techniques,will be released this month. He is a sought after expert and leading commentator on AI and cyber-attacks, brands, crisis, media, financial markets and reputation.
Not a Subscriber? Join O'Dwyer's & Get RFP Access Stop wasting time tracking down RFPs. O'Dwyer's connects you with organizations looking for PR firms & services. Get new business with O'Dwyer's! Join O'Dwyer's
China's coffee capital brews new blend of culture, tourism

Xinhua) 15:42, March 03, 2025

KUNMING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- As the coffee harvesting season has arrived, a city known as China's coffee capital in Yunnan Province is alive with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. With coffee-themed manors, streets and cultural fairs developed, the city has become a hotspot for coffee enthusiasts and tourists alike.

China's "No. 1 central document" for 2025, unveiled in late February, said the country will advance the deep integration of rural culture and tourism and initiate pilot projects to empower rural revitalization through cultural industries.

Located along the Tropic of Cancer, a prime coffee-growing belt, Pu'er is a leading coffee producer in China. The city produced 58,000 tonnes of raw coffee beans in the 2023-2024 harvesting season, ranking first in China.

In the lush, green hills of the coffee capital, an attraction called Elephant Coffee Manor stands out not just for its premium coffee but also for its unique setting. Visitors can sip their coffee while watching wild Asian elephants roam freely in their natural habitat.

"It's breathtaking to sit here with a cup of coffee and see elephants foraging on the hillside. It's unforgettable," said Huang Daxiang, a coffee aficionado and an investor in the manor.

Ma Li, a tourist from Shanghai, tried her hand at coffee fruit picking and learned about the entire process, from coffee growing and roasting to brewing.

"It was a very rewarding experience," she said, adding that the manor also offers engaging activities like coffee soap making and coffee bean bead crafting, allowing visitors like her to dive deeper into the world of coffee culture.

Figures show that Pu'er has built more than 20 premium coffee manors, which have integrated the coffee culture and tourism, including five listed as provincial-level coffee manors.

Lou Yuqiang, an associate researcher at the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said promoting the construction of high-quality coffee manors in Yunnan is a positive step toward industry development and will help extend the coffee industry chain.

In addition to coffee manors, Pu'er has been hosting coffee-themed fairs and other events, displaying local and national coffee brands and featuring cultural performances.

Tourist Zhang Xuanyu attended a coffee-themed fair as a side event for an international coffee brewing competition held in the city's Dai-Lahu-Va Autonomous County of Menglian in February.

"I tried various coffee flavors at the fair and met coffee lovers from all over the world. It was a great learning experience," said Zhang, from Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province.

During the 2025 Spring Festival holiday from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4, the number of tourists received by Pu'er surged by 13.71 percent year on year to 3.25 million, with the tourism revenue up 13.21 percent from the previous year to 3.44 billion yuan (about 480 million U.S. dollars).

"The integration of coffee and tourism has become a new hallmark of the tourism industry of Pu'er," said Zhang Qiying, deputy director of the city's culture and tourism bureau.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
Ukraine's national railway operator, Ukrzaliznytsia, will complete the creation of a Locomotive Company in 2025 to centralize the coordination of its existing locomotive depots, Ukrzaliznytsia Chairman Oleksandr Pertsovsky announced.

"This year, we are launching the full-scale operations of Ukrzaliznytsia's Locomotive Company. Our locomotive depots will be integrated into it, allowing for centralized coordination, process optimization, increased workload for strong depots, and better resource allocation," Pertsovsky stated in a Facebook post on Sunday.

As part of the company's formation, Pertsovsky visited key locomotive depots of the Odesa Railway, including those T. Shevchenko (Smila, Cherkasy region), Znamianka, and Podilsk.

"Honestly, I was impressed. All three depots are operational with motivated teams. T. Shevchenko serves as a diesel locomotive hub  many railway sections remain non-electrified, making diesel locomotives essential. Many spare parts were previously sourced from Russia, but the depot has adapted, developing its own production capabilities. Znamianka is a potential hub for our new dual-system locomotives, with prepared facilities and trained specialists. It has the capacity to develop a high-quality maintenance base for modern electric locomotives," he summarized.

He also highlighted Podilsk Depot, where a training center for replacing Russian-made parts will be established.

"Podilsk is a special place. Volodymyr Mykolaichuk, a local legend, reprogrammed Russian VL-series locomotive electronics with his own hands, ensuring our independence from Russian manufacturers. Our locomotives will keep running, while Russian manufacturers well, they'll have to find other options," Pertsovsky wrote.

Ukrzaliznytsia operates around 50 locomotive depots, including repair depots (responsible for major overhauls and modernizations) and operational depots (handling maintenance between journeys).

Previously, it was reported that the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) provided Ukrzaliznytsia with two credit lines  EUR 180 million for gas piston unit procurement and EUR 300 million for electric locomotive purchases.

Additionally, the U.S. government is expected to support Ukrzaliznytsia's locomotive renewal project with a grant of up to $195 million, administered by the World Bank through the Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund (URTF) as part of the Repairing Essential Logistics Infrastructure & Network Connectivity (RELINC) Project.

A significant number of Ukrzaliznytsia's electric locomotives have already exceeded their extended operational lifespan and will be decommissioned in the near future due to wear and corrosion, which reduces their operational capacity.
FINN Partners acquires RICE Communications, a 60-strong, Singapore-based, strategic communications and public relations consultancy, with expertise in travel, technology, corporate and consumer public relations across the Asia-Pacific region. RICE becomes part of the FINN APAC region, overseen by Howard Solomon, founding managing partner, who also leads FINN efforts on the West Coast of the US. The firm will be known as RICE, A FINN Partners Company. James Brasher, RICE managing partner, joins FINN as managing partner and lead for the agencys combined Singapore office. After the addition of RICE, Finn will have nearly 100 total employees in that market, making FINN one of the largest PR firms in Singapore. There are no staff redundancies. The acquisition of RICE builds on our collaborative approach to growth, said FINN chief executive officer and founder Peter Finn.

MVW Communications founder Melissa Vela-Williamson releases Latinas in Public Relations: Shaping Communications, Communities, and Culture, a book that lets 14 Latina communications tell the stories of their success. Vela-Williams cites data from the Pew Research Center, revealing that while Latinas account for 17 percent of all adult women in the United States, only about 7.5 percent of PR professionals are estimated to be Latina. The book addresses many of the hurdles those women face, such as overcoming the challenges of growing up as first-generation Latinas, fighting imposter syndrome, transitioning into leadership positions, and discovering the need for self-promotion. Vela-Williamson will host a free virtual book launch on March 5 at 2 p.m. CST to discuss the book and introduce the contributors, who will share relatable challenges and actionable advice on how to beat the odds in the public relations industry. The launch will conclude with the announcement of a sponsored book giveaway. From March 5  March 8, thanks to the generosity of contributing author Anais Biera Miracle, interested readers can download the e-book for free on Amazon.

BizCom Associates and Brand J officially rebrand as Thunderly. BizCom acquired Brand J last year as a way of expanding its services from PR and social media to include lead-generation, website development, personal branding, video production and other marketing services. Thunderly's services now include franchise lead generation, digital advertising, website design, public relations, social media, thought leadership, crisis communications, graphic design and podcast production. "The name Thunderly captures our strengthsbeing loud, being heard, and forecasting something powerful, said Thunderly co-founder and COO Monica Feid.
OFFALY-based growers, JHK Bracken Partnership in Foxcovert, Munny, Kilcormac, have won the Seed Barley category at this years prestigious Tirlan Quality Grain Awards.

Joe and Helen Bracken and their son Kieran are farming 300 acres in a partnership. They grow a range of crops, including winter and spring barley, maize, oilseed rape, hemp and a small area of grassland which they summer graze with cattle. Both minimum tillage and conventional cultivation are carried out, depending on soil and weather conditions.

An excellent rotation, including break crops, allows them to grow seed crops of barley annually. Maize is contract grown for two farmers. Slurry is imported from dairy and pig producers onto the farm into a purpose-built lagoon located in the middle of the farm and this is spread using an umbilical system, allowing for a reduction in the use of mineral fertilisers. Brackens have been using protected urea for seven years.

Interestingly, the Hemp grown on farm is now being processed on the farm and being sold to supermarkets and health shops across the midlands with the aim to wholesale more to end users.

This winning crop of seed barley was the winter variety, Tardis, and produced an average specific weight of 69.8 kph at a moisture of 18.8% across almost 100 tonnes with screenings of 2.5% and protein of 10.3%. The Brackens Tirlan agronomist is Oisin Lacey.

Meanwhile, champion growers Art and Ann Murphy won the coveted Grain Grower of the Year title at the Tirlan Quality Grain Award for 2024 and have been singled out for their exceptional attention to detail in producing top quality grains on the family farm.

The Murphys, from Killabeg, Ferns, Enniscorthy in Wexford, also won the individual award for Winter (Cassia) Feed Barley for harvest 2024. The Murphy family was among 14 top grain growers commended at the highly competitive Tirlan Quality Grain Awards for 2024 ceremony that took place on Wednesday last, at The Guinness Storehouse.

John Murphy, Tirlan Chairperson, said Tirlan remains Irelands largest buyer and user of native Irish grains and has paid a top price at harvest for the last five years. There has been a significant increase in the quantity of barley going to the brewing and distilling industry from harvest 2024. It is wonderful to get the opportunity to celebrate and recognise the cream of the crop among our dedicated and passionate growers here at the Guinness Storehouse today.

Innovation in the marketplace is key at Tirlan and were seeing significant growth opportunities for our oat-based drinks in Asia and the US in particular. Our functional oat flours are also gaining more traction in new markets. It is this commitment to investing in facilities and innovation that allows Tirlan to grow its premium grains portfolio to target new markets and deliver premium grains opportunities for our growers.

Tirlans Oat-Standing portfolio has expanded with specialty oat ingredients used in beverages, chocolate, ice cream and so much more. The oats portfolio and plant-based offerings are sought after in the marketplace, offering strong traceability from Irish farms, and clean label benefits that resonate with health-conscious consumers.
A county Longford man who stole a television from his sister's house has been ordered to pay 500 to a charity of her choice.

Daniel Purkis (32) of Kelleter, Killoe pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the burglary offence at Beehive Cottages in Ballinalee on September 14, 2024.

Sergeant Mark Mahon said Gardai received a report that a television had been taken off the complainant's wall and they attended the scene and spoke to the woman about the incident.

"The injured party suspected the defendant straight away who was her brother," the prosecuting officer added.

Sergeant Mahon said Mr Purkis sent his sister a message where he admitted entering the house and taking the television.

"This was given to Gardai and it was translated, he was cooperative in relation to it," the officer added.

The court heard Gardai obtained and executed a search warrant where the TV was recovered and returned to the injured party.

Mr Purkis was subsequently arrested and during interview he admitted entering the room as a trespasser and committing the offence.

The defendant had one previous conviction.

Solicitor Brid Mimnagh addressed Judge Bernadette Owens and said her client is now employed at an engineering factory but at the time he was studying at the University of Galway and he was 'completely burnt out'.

"He had a disagreement with his sister and you will see in the Garda statement immediately after he did it he contacted his aunt and told her what he had done," she said.

Ms Mimnagh said when her client was 10 years of age he moved from England to Ireland.

"This (incident) should not have happened and he completely accepts that judge," she added.

Judge Bernadette Owens requested a restorative justice report and she asked Sgt Mahon to contact the injured party to ascertain if she wanted to submit a victim impact statement.

The case was then adjourned until May 20, 2025.
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Lifted from late nineteenth opinion of Justice Brewer (Gulf, C&S. F. R. Co. v. Ellis, 165 U.S. 150 [1897]):

"The argument used by Anti-Conventionists is that Article V fails to provide operational details of a convention and because of that vagueness one should not take place despite the fact the states have legally satisfied the requirement for it. These opponents ignore that Article V is part of the Constitution, and as with all such questions, the entire Constitution is applied-- every clause bears on the others and thus where details are found. This is especially true of the 14th Amendment, which in part states:

"'No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.'

"This explains why a convention must be comprised of elected delegates, why a convention vote is conducted by state delegations rather than individual delegates, why a convention can only propose amendments based on a two-thirds vote of state delegations, and many others, all protecting the people equally regardless whether a proposal originates from the Congress or the Article V Convention.

"The Supreme Court has ruled members of a legal class must be treated equally under the law. The Court has ruled discrimination must rest on some difference bearing a reasonable and just relation and cannot be made arbitrarily without basis. There must be a basis for discrimination or it's unconstitutional. In the case of a convention, the basis to classify it as a separate from Congress would mean to treat them differently under the law, but there is no basis to do so because the function of a convention and Congress is identical-- to propose amendments. The Constitution authorizes no other political body to make proposals, only a member of Congress or an Article V Delegate holds power to do so. Any law which applies to one portion of a legal class must apply equally to both. This explains why a convention can only propose amendments based on two-thirds vote of delegations because Article V mandates Congress must do so.

Delegates

"The principle of equal protection extends to all aspects of the amendment process. If members of Congress suffer election to obtain power of proposal, so too must convention delegates. Indeed it would be impossible to assert otherwise as all groups associated with the amendment process (including state legislators and state ratifying delegates) consist entirely of elected members. Similarly, attempting to instruct delegates on what to consider, what to propose, and how to vote, is unconstitutional because it denies delegates equal power granted to members of Congress, not to mention protecting the people from a bogus convention.

"Election law that regulates members of Congress applies equally to delegates. The lowest standard of election for members of the House is having attained the age of twenty-five, citizenship for at least seven years, and residing in state where elected. This constitutional standard becomes the election qualification for an Article V Delegate.

State Delegations

"House members are elected from congressional districts which are apportioned in state based on population, and as those populations vary, so too do the number of its congressional districts. Consequently delegates must be elected from those same districts in order to protect the people in being equally represented. The number of delegates from each state must be equal to the number of congressional districts in the state.

"Each state is equal in the convention process: each is permitted one application for a convention and one vote in ratification-- a single state cannot cast 34 applications to cause a convention and a state cannot vote 38 times on an amendment to have it ratified. In the amendment process each state has one vote regardless of population, thus making them equal. This was the major concern of delegates to the 1787 convention which gave us the Constitution itself; they wrestled over the question of equal representation in the face of varied populations. They resolved the problem by creating two houses of representation-- one based on state representation (the Senate) and the other on state population (the House). However, Article V mandates a convention be unicameral rather than bi-cameral-- which simplifies and strengthens the effect of the process because a single political body is less political and more reliable than two political bodies.

"In order that the population in each state is represented equally, delegates from each state are gathered into delegations. In this way populations are equally represented within state delegations where the delegation becomes an artificial person with one vote; each delegation votes on proposals within itself and casts that decision as its state vote; 50 votes for each proposal, requiring two-thirds to legally propose an amendment (the convention of 1787 and the Congress prior to enactment of the Constitution both used state delegations as basis of one vote).

Quorum

"The operational question of quorum of a convention is again resolved by applying the 14th Amendment. In Congress the Constitution demands a quorum for either the Senate or the House to conduct business-- a majority of members-- fifty percent, plus one. Thus in Congress a quorum of members may vote to propose an amendment without two thirds of the full membership present. And so it is in a convention, a quorum of states (26) having a quorum of delegates may propose an amendment without all delegations present and conduct business as required.

"In Missouri Pacific Ry. Co v State of Kansas, 258 U.S. 276 (1919), the Supreme Court ruled on the issue of quorum in relation to the amendment process of Article V. The Court quoted Speaker of the House Thomas Reed on passage of amendment providing for election of Senators in reply to an inquiry from the floor as to whether the vote was in compliance with the two-thirds rule fixed by Constitution, Reed said, 'The question is one that has been so often decided that it seems hardly necessary to dwell upon it. The provision of the Constitution says 'two-thirds of both houses.' What constitutes a house? A quorum of the membership, a majority, one-half and one more. That is all that is necessary to constitute a house to do all the business that comes before it.' [I]f a quorum of the House is present the House is constituted, and two-thirds of those voting are sufficient in order to the accomplish the object." Therefore, as with Congress, quorum of state delegations constitutes the convention which may proceed with business."

As noted by James Iredell, in the North



11 Carolina Ratifying Convention of 1787:



12

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Ukraine successfully conducted a second trade policy review at the World Trade Organization (WTO), the website of the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine reports.

According to information on the ministry's website, the meeting was held on February 26 and February 28 at the WTO headquarters in Geneva. The delegation was headed by Deputy Minister of Economy - Trade Representative of Ukraine Taras Kachka.

"We received over 400 written questions from 20 WTO members, mainly on trade and investment regimes. This confirms the significant interest in deepening economic cooperation with Ukraine, despite the war. Feedback on the sustainability of the economy, the critical role of agricultural exports in global food security, and the development of high-value-added industries are especially valuable to us," Kachka was quoted as saying in the report.

He added that WTO members also highly appreciated the progress in protecting intellectual property and fulfilling transparency obligations.

The Ministry of Economy noted that preparations for the review lasted for over a year. As part of this, Ukraine cooperated with state bodies, structural units of the Ministry of Economy, and the WTO Secretariat. In December, WTO members received reports from the Secretariat and the government of Ukraine for analysis.

Kachka emphasized that a successful review will contribute to strengthening Ukraine's trade relations with partners.

The trade representative also separately noted a significant achievement of economic diplomacy at the WTO meeting - for the first time, a joint statement of 45 WTO members condemning the destructive impact of Russian aggression on the world trading system was included in the minutes. The statement was distributed as an official WTO document.

The Ministry of Economy emphasized that conducting trade policy reviews of WTO members is one of the most important activities of this international organization. The purpose of the reviews is to ensure transparency and predictability of WTO members' trade regimes, and to promote fuller compliance with WTO rules and principles by all members.

The frequency of trade policy reviews depends on the share of a WTO member in the total volume of world trade: the four largest global traders (EU, USA, Japan and China) must undergo such a procedure, as a rule, once every three years; the next 16 WTO members (such as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Switzerland, India, Turkey, Singapore, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, UAE, etc.)  every five years; the remaining WTO members, including Ukraine,  every seven years, with the possibility of extending the period between reviews for the least developed countries, as well as if necessary.

Ukraine became a full member of the WTO in 2008. The first Trade Policy Review of Ukraine took place in April 2016. The next one was supposed to take place in November 2023, but due to the Russian full-scale aggression, the dates were postponed to 2025.


Current occupation of Ukraine by Russia and/or the New Border

(Image by Live map) Details DMCA



The much-discussed disastrous and unprecedented public argument between presidents Trump and Zelenskyy on February 28th, and the creeping loss of territory in Ukraine have made the need for a resolution urgent. Making it even more urgent is the possibility of a wider international war in Europe and beyond - what Trump revealed truthfully, albeit while falsely casting the entire blame on Zelenskyy in the infamous White House meeting - only adds to the urgency.

The time to have stopped Russia was shortly after the 2014 de facto annexation of Crimea and before the closely subsequent invasion of the Donetsk region. Arguably, Russia had to stabilize the Sevastopol port - Russia's largest military warm-water port - during the color revolution 2 weeks after the Sochi Olympics or risk a siege in Crimea and direct attacks on support personnel of Russians in that area. Only a puppet Ukrainian previous administration had allowed Russia to continue occupying Ukraine's Sevastopol after the fall of the USSR but that vanished quickly, without warning, and without clarity what would come next in 2014.

It's gone on too long now for Russia to withdraw from the southeast of Ukraine - the only connection to Crimea before the Kersh bridge was built years later, itself a tenuous connection that has already been attacked by Ukraine. See current war map here.

Unfortunately, there is no combination of rivers or mountains that would form a natural or defensible geographical new border between "new" Ukraine and an expanded Russia, i.e. the frontlines are indefensible and have been laid with over a million land mines instead, which, it's estimated will take decades to clear (I modeled a unique anti-mine drone, so I know something about landmines from that research).

President Zelenskyy has suggested a buffer zone. I think he actually does have some negotiating power about that, but it'll have to be in Ukrainian territory and he's unwilling to consider that. It would be like the Korean DMZ, barely stable, heavily patrolled and extensively cleared and mined for the foreseeable future.

There might be an agreement for the U.S./Euro region to maintain the new "border" against future Russian incursion, but not NATO; a new peacekeeping force. Just agreeing on that, as well as the fate of Sevastopol, could take weeks or months, and time is not on Ukraine's side, as Trump has correctly, if unsympathetically, pointed out.

Life, and war, is deeply unfair. But we should not fall in love with lines on a map. dozens of countries have formed, broken up, reformed, since the world's largest nation-recognizing body - the U.N. - was formed. No one can defend the indefensible, but agreements over new realities are still possible.
This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.

Among so many other things, Donald Trump, whose record on religious persecution -- of Muslims, of course -- is anything but charming, is now openly supporting the one religious group in this country that experiences next to no persecution: Christians. Jews, yes indeed. Muslims -- well, I'm sure you remember. Christians, not really. And yet, as Joseph Gedeon of the Guardian reported recently, in his second term Donald Trump has already unveiled "an aggressive executive order establishing a dedicated taskforce to combat what he claims is 'anti-Christian bias' across federal agencies." Yes, the Trump presidency the second time around will, it seems, be a distinctly Christian nationalist one.

Of course, we're talking about the president who installed a set of notorious Islamophobes in the White House the last time he was there and put serious travel restrictions on the possibility of people living in seven majority-Muslim countries visiting the U.S. And last year, he campaigned on a program of reinstituting just such a travel ban. ("I will ban refugee resettlement from terror-infested areas like the Gaza Strip, and we will seal our border and bring back the travel ban.") Now, he is evidently at work preparing to do just that and possibly far worse. In fact, he's already signed a directive laying the groundwork for a potentially even more devastating version of such a ban. According to the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, "the decree goes further than the 2017 'Muslim ban' by giving the government 'wider latitude to use ideological exclusion' to deny visas and remove people from the U.S."

Fortunately, as TomDispatch regular and co-chair of the Poor People's Campaign Liz Theoharis reports today, there has been significant pushback against Trump's Christian nationalist tack. At this very moment, for instance, 27 religious denominations are suing the Trump administration for "giving immigration agents more leeway to make arrests at 'sensitive locations,' including houses of worship." And as Theoharis makes stunningly clear today, that's just a start to the pressure Christian progressives are preparing to put on in response to the Trumpian nightmare. Tom

Woe to You Who Deprive the Poor of Their Rights

A Battle of Theologies in the Age of Trump

By Liz Theoharis

"There has almost always been an outright hostility that is shown towards people of the Christian faith," House Speaker Mike Johnson said on a podcast recently. He was talking with Tony Perkins, a former Louisiana lawmaker and president of the Family Research Council, about freedom of religion and the actions of the second Trump administration.

I have to admit that such a statement from this country's third most powerful politician and an avowed Christian nationalist almost takes my breath away. Of all the people facing hostility, discrimination, and violence now and throughout history, Christians like Mike Johnson rank low on the list. Still, his comment is consistent with a disturbing religious trend in the country right now.

As an early act of his second administration, Donald Trump has created an anti-Christian bias task force to be chaired by Attorney General Pam Bondi. At the same time, he's slashing federal jobs and programs, threatening Medicaid, Head Start, the Department of Education, affordable housing programs, accommodations for the disabled, environmental protections, public health and safety, Social Security, and Medicare, while scapegoating immigrants and trans kids. It's particularly ironic that Trump, Johnson, and the people with them in the top echelons of power are targeting those that the Bible is most concerned about -- children, the poor, immigrants, the sick and disabled, women, the vulnerable, and the earth itself. Meanwhile, Elon Musk, the richest man ever to exist, who has built his wealth off exploiting the poor, goes so far as to call the impoverished "parasites." After all, there are more than 2,000 Biblical passages that speak about protecting the vulnerable, offering good news to the poor, stewarding God's creation, and bringing judgment down upon those with wealth and power who make people suffer.

Pope Francis himself has weighed in on the regressive policies and posture of the current administration. To America's bishops he wrote, "The true common good is promoted when society and government, with creativity and strict respect for the rights of all -- as I have affirmed on numerous occasions -- welcomes, protects, promotes and integrates the most fragile, unprotected and vulnerable." Indeed, if any Christians are under attack right now, it's those included in what liberation theologians have called "God's preferential option for the poor" (the very creation for whom God has special love and care) and those standing up with and for them.

The Pope hasn't been the only one to challenge the use of religion in the Trump administration. Since the inauguration, the actions of Johnson, Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and others have been opposed and decried by people of faith of many persuasions. Remember Episcopal Bishop Marian Budde imploring President Trump to show mercy, especially to immigrants and LGBTQ+ people, at the Inaugural Prayer Service at the Washington National Cathedral? Since her gentle reminder that the Bible teaches love, truth, and mercy, she has received regular and credible death threats on a daily basis, even as people have also flocked to the Cathedral and other houses of worship in search of moral leaders willing to stand up to the bullying tactics of Donald Trump, the richest man on earth Elon Musk, and their cronies.

In response to Trump's threats of mass detention and deportation, especially removing "sensitive sites" status from houses of worship, schools, and hospitals, while threatening "sanctuary cities" with a loss of federal funding, 27 religious groups have sued the Trump administration for infringement of their religious liberty to honor and worship God by loving their immigrant neighbors. Kelsi Corkran, a lawyer with the Georgetown University Law Center's Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection and lead counsel in that lawsuit, said that plaintiffs joined the suit "because their scripture, teaching, and traditions offer irrefutable unanimity on their religious obligation to embrace and serve the refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants in their midst without regard to documentation or legal status."

Faith leaders are coming together to support and protect transgender and nonbinary people now under attack by the Trump administration as well. My colleagues Aaron Scott and Moses Hernandez-McGavin recently penned an article for Religion News Service where they affirmed the dignity of LGBTQ+ people, even as Christian nationalists continue to build their influence and power by damning LGBTQ+ communities, all while claiming to protect children and traditional family values. "Gender diversity," they wrote,

"is a fact of human existence older than Scripture and is thoroughly attested to in the Bible. Jesus's teaching about eunuchs in the Gospel of Matthew makes clear there are human beings who exist outside of the gender binary from birth, as well as those who live outside the gender binary 'for the sake of the kingdom.' In the story of the Ethiopian eunuch's baptism, the Book of Acts lifts up the spiritual leadership of gender non-conforming people of African descent. In the Hebrew Bible's Book of Isaiah, God affirms not only the sanctity but the spiritual importance of people outside the gender binary, promising us 'a name better than sons and daughters.' "The Talmud reflects this affirmation of gender diversity, recognizing no fewer than seven genders."

A Battle for the Bible in History

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Wollongong, NSW: 3rd March At Chong Kho, a premier Thai restaurant located in Warrawong, is delighted to announce its commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience for residents and visitors of Wollongong. Emphasising real Thai cuisine, friendly surroundings, and unmatched service, At Chong Kho has evolved into a must-visit location for foodies looking to sample Thailand right in New South Wales. Unforgettable dining for every occasion From those looking for traditional Thai cuisine 
She started to feel sick on the airplane to Hawaii. Then, the whole family got COVID. Getty Images. Getty Images

DEAR ABBY: My son and his wife have quit speaking to my husband and me because I gave them COVID.

At their invitation, we took a trip with them to Hawaii. I began feeling ill on the plane and tested positive the next day.

A couple days later, my son got sick, and then a few days later, his wife got it. I told them repeatedly how sorry I was that Id infected them and spoiled their vacation.

We always had a close relationship -- frequent phone calls, visits, dinners, etc. -- but for the last six weeks, nothing. He told his brother he was furious because I tried to kill them. Im at a loss about what to do, if anything. What would Dear Abby do? -- GUILTY IN CALIFORNIA

DEAR GUILTY: What Dear Abby would do is give your son some time to cool off and then reach out and apologize again. He needs to grow up. You didnt make anyone sick on purpose, and it just as easily could have been your son or daughter-in-law infecting you.

DEAR ABBY: My girlfriend, whom I have known for many years, remarried her ex-husband a few years ago. I didnt know her when she was married to him the first time.

My husband and I dont like him. The last time we met for lunch, her husband showed my husband a gun he was carrying in his pocket!

Abby, hes an elderly man with a tremor in his hands. She keeps emailing me about the four of us meeting again, and we are both scared to meet them since hes armed and has that tremor. We are afraid it could accidentally go off and shoot one of us. I dont know what to tell her. Any advice? -- FRIGHTENED IN TEXAS

DEAR FRIGHTENED: Keep in mind that carrying a gun is legal in Texas. Also, many guns have safety devices so they dont fire accidentally. There is a difference between not liking someone and being afraid of socializing with an armed person. You dont have to sacrifice your long friendship with this woman. If you dont want to see them as a couple, get together with her separately.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
Portland spent more than $788 million on its municipal workforce last fiscal year, a nearly 12% increase from the year prior.

Police officers and firefighters - yet again - made up the bulk of the citys highest-paid employees, comprising 46 of the 57 workers who received more than $250,000, according to an analysis of city data obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Agency directors and other high-level bureaucrats, some of whom were given hefty severances to leave their jobs at the city, were among Portlands other top earners.

All told, employee payroll comprised 11% of the $7.1 billion in expenditures approved by the Portland City Council for the 12-month period that ended June 30, 2024, the newsrooms analysis found.

The median pay among Portlands nearly 10,000 workers was about $84,500.

Dont see the graphic? Click here.

Former Deputy Police Chief Michael Frome was the highest-paid city worker last year, earning $421,658, records show. While Frome, a 25-year veteran of the Portland Police Bureau, collected base pay of about $232,206, he also cashed-out vacation days and sick leave for an additional $177,822 when he retired last June.

Portland Fire Lt. Rodney Brown, who joined the city in 1996, followed closely behind Frome, netting $417,227 in pay. Like 26 other city cops and firefighters, Brown cleared six-figures in overtime, $112,813 which was nearly as much as his $120,978 base pay.

Brown also cashed-out vacation days and sick leave to the tune of $160,646 though he continues to work for the Fire Bureau.

Last year, the city paid nearly $24 million in overtime to Portland Fire & Rescue employees and about $17.6 million to employees in the Portland Police Bureau, The Oregonian/OregonLive found. Just over 78% of all city overtime spending went to personnel in those two public safety bureaus, which have struggled for years with job vacancies and persistent understaffing.

Overtime payments for Fire Bureau employees, for example, have increased 53% since the 2021 fiscal year when the bureau shelled out $15.5 million in overtime. A 2023 analysis by an outside consultant found Portland Fire & Rescue  which had about 670 sworn personnel at the time  needed to hire an additional 67 firefighters over the next two or three years to make a significant dent in overtime expenses.

Dont see the graphic? Click here.

Beyond Frome and Brown, 10 Police Bureau employees and three members of the Fire Bureau each made more than $300,000, according to city wage data.

Thats far more than either Police Chief Bob Day or Fire Chief Ryan Gillespie, who earned $194,908 and $229,285 respectively. Meanwhile, John Mike Myers, a deputy city administrator who oversees all of Portlands public safety bureaus  including police, fire and 911 bureaus  made $224,295.

Only two other Portland workers earned more than $300,000 last year: Ronald Vaught, a city controller, and Jeffrey Baer, who was the director for the Bureau of Technology Services.

Vaughts $115,439 base pay was augmented by $204,521 in severance pay when he left the city in February 2024 after almost 17 years. A city spokesperson declined to provide more information about Vaughts departure. Vaught could not be reached for comment.

Baer, who had worked in Portland city government since 2001, earned annual base pay last year of $249,511 and cashed-out an additional $59,026 in vacation days. He retired from the city last month, records show.

Both workers had gross earnings that topped Portlands two highest salaried employees last year, then-Chief Administrative Office Michael Jordan and Portland Parks & Recreation Director Adena Long, who each earned $273,829.

Since the end of the last fiscal year, Jordan, who now serves as city administrator under Portlands new form of government, has received three raises and now makes $312,500 annually.

The wage data also shows that nearly 40% of the 9,906 workers paid by the city of Portland last year earned six figures. Among them were former Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler and all four city commissioners who served under the citys old form of government. Wheeler made about $144,000, while the city commissioners made $126,000.

-- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh covers Portland city government and politics, with a focus on accountability and watchdog reporting.

Reach him at 503-294-7632

Email at skavanaugh@oregonian.com

Follow on X @shanedkavanaugh or on BlueSky @shanedkavanaugh

Our journalism needs your support. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com.
No. 14 Oregon extended its win streak to 15 games with another run-rule victory over Loyola Chicago.

Taylour Spencer retired 12 of the last 13 batters she faced and Kedre Luschar had three RBIs to lead three Ducks with multiple hits in a 9-1 win in five innings against the Ramblers Sunday afternoon at Jane Sanders Stadium.

Ali Pawlowicz hit a leadoff home run in the second to give Loyola Chicago the lead.

Oregon (20-1) finally broke through in the fourth as an error turned a would-be RBI fielders choice into three runs.

Dezi Patmon led off the fifth with a home run. Luschar added a three-run homer, Braiesey Rosa hit an RBI double and Kai Luschars RBI single ended it in the fifth.

Spencer allowed one run on one hit and one walk and struck out three over 5.0 innings.

Oregon hosts No. 9 Florida State on Friday.
Youth Voices writer Charlie Bloomer poses for senior portraits in the woods near their home in Sandy. Courtesy of Keegan Deters

Im fascinated by history. From collecting nonfiction to being sucked into school lectures to scrolling aimlessly on Wikipedia, its a strange hobby for a teenager. But Im trying to make sense of my place in the world by tracing my, and the entire worlds, history.

When I began to educate myself about history that resonated with me, I realized I am not an anomaly, but rather the product of all the events that happened before.

I live in the woods near Sandy, making me a rural Oregonian. Although I love my community and its quirky people, nature and friendliness, I never felt I fit in. Living in a queer and Asian American body, I used to feel something was wrong with me because I am different from the majority.

Like many rural areas across the state, my town values tradition. I first began to question my sexuality in middle school, around the same time a local church hosted anti-LGBTQ rallies that billed themselves as family-values oriented. Participants promoted the idea of natural families and some Proud Boys in attendance flashed white supremacist hand signals, Willamette Week wrote at the time. It was a dangerous dog-whistle that sent a clear message to my young self: Being queer or different from this norm wasnt acceptable. I internalized a lot of shame.

It was through research that my home began to feel like a home. By going down internet rabbit-holes, I learned about sundown towns: towns that intentionally excluded people of color past sundown.

I began to wonder if my hometown was influenced by that history.

When I shared this search with my history teacher, she connected me with Nancy Spencer, a former archivist for the Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum and 65 year resident of the Mount Hood area. Spencer shared with me her notes on a book of deeds from 1911.

One document was a written script barring Asian Americans from living on a property in Rhododendron, just 20 miles away from where I grew up, according to Spencers notes.

You could see what it was like in those days. It was dumb the way they treated people, but I guess thats what they thought, Spencer said.

The document proclaimed that Chinese and Japanese residents could not occupy any business, hotel, store or factory unless they were employed on the property as house servants, Spencer wrote.

It wasnt an isolated event. There was growing hostility towards Asian farmers, especially in the Hood River Valley area, according to the Oregon Department of Administrative Services' 2021 DEI Action Plan. By 1923, the Oregon Legislature passed laws that prevented Japanese Americans from owning or leasing land.

These things helped me understand that intentional practices created barriers for Asian Americans and other people of color to move into my neck of the woods. Today, about 3% of people in Government Camp, Sandy and Rhododendron are Asian, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, compared to 5% of the state as a whole.

As I grew to understand the broader historical context of my area, the pieces of the puzzle came together. I began to understand where I fit in.

When I served as a campaign manager for the grassroots youth organization Students Advocating for Equality my junior year, I met other LGBTQ+ youth across the state who also shared my deep fascination with history and a passion to transform rural places.

I met Parker McCord, a student at Clackamas High School, who had done countless hours of research on transgender history. Research helped calm their anxiety. It reinforced the belief that, despite the dominant narrative, people like McCord have existed in every nation, culture and timeline. When I met McCord, I realized I had never been alone.

Although history may get lost throughout generations, people like me have always been around. Between the lines of my history textbook, I learned my home is not where I live but the people who shape it. My home is made up of youth like McCord, the history nerds, the unconventional leaders and the rural queer youth across the nation.

Ive learned that being different is a beautiful thing. Ive gained an unwavering connection with those like me. All people should feel entitled to call small Oregon towns their home, regardless of their sometimes shameful history. As youth continue to reshape the narrative of the future, I hope that a transformed and more loving Oregon is on the horizon.

Youth Voices contributor Charlie Bloomer is a senior at Sandy High School. They serve as editor-in-chief for Sandy Highs newspaper, The Pioneer Press, a communications volunteer for Rural Organizing Project and an active participant on the speech team.
A Washington State Patrol trooper was in jail after a crash that killed a motorcycle driver Saturday night on Highway 240 in Richland.

Sarah Lee Clasen, 35, a trooper who also serves as the Tri-Cities area spokesperson for WSP, was listed as an inmate of the Benton County jail Sunday morning.

She was being held on suspicion of negligent vehicular homicide in the death of a Richland man.

Jhoser Sanchez, who was driving the motorcycle, died, according to Dennis Morris, the Benton County chief deputy coroner.

Crash details were not immediately available, but Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste released a memo saying that Saturday evening a trooper was involved in a collision resulting in a death. There were no other injuries, he said.

The trooper was not on duty and was driving their personal vehicle, according to Batiste.

The Richland Police Department posted that the driver of a car involved in a crash with a motorcycle about 7:40 p.m. Saturday on Highway 240 near Horn Rapids Road was suspected of driving under the influence and booked into jail on suspicion of vehicular homicide.

Sanchez was taken by ambulance to Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, where he was pronounced dead.

An autopsy is planned by the coroners office.

An independent investigation of the collision is being done by the Richland Police Department, according to Batiste.

The Washington state Department of Transportation closed Highway 240 at milepost 26, which is about three miles northwest of the Jadwin Avenue intersection. Westbound traffic could not proceed past Kingsgate Way, but a detour was available for eastbound traffic.

Batiste said he was confident that Richland police would investigate the case with great care and professionalism and that WSP would cooperate with the investigation.

We are reminded in times like these that law enforcement officers are not immune from tragedy nor from personal accountability, he said in the memo.
Volunteers search Lincoln County near Siletz for missing toddler Dane Paulsen on Sunday afternoon. Paulsen was last seen in his front yard on Saturday. Courtesy of Randy James, Oregon Coast Explored

Law enforcement and more than a hundred Lincoln County volunteers searched the water and brush near the home of Siletz 2-year-old Dane Paulsen on Sunday in the hope of finding the missing toddler.

Paulsen was last seen playing in his yard near milepost 21 on the Siletz River Highway on Saturday afternoon, the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office said. He was still missing as of 6 p.m. Sunday evening.

Law enforcement began to search the area near the Siletz River on foot and with thermal drones on Saturday, the office said in a news release, then enlisted the publics help in a Sunday announcement that the boy had been missing through the night.

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office is asking for public help finding Dane Paulsen, 2, who went missing from his home in Siletz on Saturday afternoon. Courtesy of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office

On Sunday, divers searched the river while official search and rescue teams scoured a primary search area on the banks with dogs, drones and experts. Volunteers launched search parties from a nearby campground.

Paulsen was last seen wearing a gray fuzzy sweatshirt with ears, blue and white shoes and black pants, the sheriffs office said. He has brown hair and green eyes.

Dane is friendly and fearless and is comfortable around strangers and water but cannot swim, the sheriffs office said in an update on Sunday night.

Authorities were initially looking for a gold station wagon that had been in the area on Saturday afternoon, but said on Sunday that it was no longer of interest.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the countys major crime team are helping with the search, the sheriffs office said, but as of Sunday there was no evidence to suggest a crime.

Randy James, who lives near Newport and spent years helping with the search for missing Eugene man Michael Bryson, brought his German Shepherd to help look for Paulsen on Sunday.

The sheriffs office and volunteers searched the river in boats, James said, while volunteers spread 10 to 15 feet apart checked creek beds, brush, and anywhere the child could have gone.

Its good to help out. The community all came together to search, James said in a message on Sunday night. ...No one deserves to have a missing family member.

The Lincoln County Sheriffs office has asked anyone with information related to the Paulsens disappearance to call its tip line at 541-265-0669 or the non-emergency dispatch line at 541-265-0777.

This story will be updated with any new developments.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

U.S. President Donald Trump will meet with national security aides on Monday to likely consider suspending or canceling military aid to Ukraine, The NewYork Times reports, citing an unnamed Trump administration official.

In particular, the official said that Trump will meet with his top national security aides, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, to "consider and possibly take action on a range of policy options for Ukraine."

"These include suspending or canceling American military aid to Ukraine, including the final shipments of ammunition and equipment authorized and paid for during the Biden administration," The New York Times quoted an official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Rep. Hoa Nguyen, D-Portland, said that she has a stage 4 cancer diagnosis and has started chemotherapy, which will keep her from physically attending committee hearings or votes on legislation. Dave Killen / The Oregonian

A Democratic state representative in Oregon is undergoing treatment for advanced cancer, she announced Friday after weeks of missing votes and committee hearings.

Rep. Hoa Nguyen, D-Portland, said Friday that she has a stage 4 cancer diagnosis and has started chemotherapy, which will keep her from physically attending committee hearings or votes on legislation.

This is a challenging time for me, but I am fortunate to have an incredible team of doctors supporting me, Nguyen said in a written statement.

She said her staff will provide constituent services and ensure that work continues on her top projects: bills addressing chronic absenteeism and the child care caucus, a coalition of lawmakers, families, community groups, labor unions and businesses that works to improve access to child care.

I am confident the House Democratic Caucus will continue to protect the interests of Oregonians, and my voice will be part of that effort, Nguyen added. I look forward to being back on my feet soon to continue serving HD 48.

Nguyens statement didnt identify the type of cancer, and neither her office nor a spokesperson for House Democrats responded to follow-up questions. Stage 4 or metastatic cancer is the most advanced stage and indicates that cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Its harder to treat than earlier stages, and a patients prognosis varies depending on the type of cancer and other health factors.

Another Democratic representative, freshman Sarah Finger McDonald of Corvallis, is also undergoing treatment for colon cancer, with chemotherapy sessions scheduled once every two weeks. McDonald, who had two previous rounds of treatment, told the Capital Chronicle that she learned to juggle constituent work with cancer treatment during an earlier bout while she was a member of the Corvallis school board. She spoke publicly about her cancer diagnoses in part to remind people to get screenings  national health experts recently recommended that colon cancer screenings begin at age 45 instead of 50.

The full House has met only once or twice a week so far this session, as most work is done in committees. Nguyen missed all but one floor session in February.

Shes the vice chair of the House Early Childhood and Human Services Committee and a member of the House Education Committee and Ways and Means subcommittee on education. Nguyen hasnt attended any committee meetings since Feb. 6, a review of posted meeting video shows.

Nguyens statement said she may attend committee meetings remotely while undergoing chemotherapy. A spokeswoman for House Speaker Julie Fahey, D-Eugene, didnt respond to a call or email asking about whether Nguyen will also be able to vote remotely. Many states made such allowances during the COVID pandemic.

Nguyen made history in 2022 as one of a record five Vietnamese American legislators elected to the state House. She served on the David Douglas School Board and worked as a student and community engagement specialist for the Clackamas Education Service District.

Her 48th House District, which includes southeast Portland and surrounding suburbs, is one of the Legislatures most competitive. She defeated Republican John Masterman, owner of a transmission repair shop, in both 2022 and 2024, winning by just more than 600 votes in 2022 and more than 1,700 votes in 2024.

-- Julia Shumway, Oregon Capital Chronicle

Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.
The National Weather Service provides forecasts relied upon by farmers and fisheries, as well as everyday Oregonians. Sean Meagher/The Oregonian

The National Weather Service office in Pendleton has experienced job cuts that could impact weather forecasting for Central Oregon, according to state climatologist Larry ONeil.

Oregon has a total of four National Weather Service offices, each staffed by 20 to 25 people. Each office lost between 25% to 60% of their staff, said ONeil. The job losses are part of the federal governments effort to cut costs and reduce spending nationwide.

This is just going to touch upon a lot of different facets of our society, you know, from our food supply, our water supply, our safety, ONeil said.

The National Weather Service provides weather, water and climate data, forecasts and warnings. Its services are designed to protect life and property. It operates under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration branch of the Department of Commerce. ONeil worries that any staff cuts threaten Oregons ability to prepare for natural disasters.

Its already affecting their operations. The forecasts are just going to be less accurate, ONeil said. Maintenance on our weather radars and the weather stations that the weather service operates around Oregon will be delayed.

ONeil is also concerned about the National Weather Services ability to forecast river levels for flood or drought risk because several people who specialize in the area have left their jobs and there is no expectation for replacement hiring.

The National Weather Service office that serves Bend is in Pendleton. ONeil says 42% of the Pendleton meteorologists and scientists have left their jobs this month. Administrative workers are also gone, he said.

ONeil adds that he does not believe the cuts are an appropriate way to reduce government spending.

There may be genuine waste, fraud, abuse in the government, but these programs are not it. Theyve been underfunded for a long time, ONeil said.

A meteorologist in Pendleton declined to speak about the job cuts when contacted by the Bulletin, saying he was not authorized to discuss the matter.

Susan Buchanan, a public affairs officer with the National Weather Service, also declined to discuss the job cuts.

Per long-standing practice, we are not discussing internal personnel and management matters, she said.

ONeil said he is particularly concerned about how the cuts will impact Oregons response to wildfires this summer. The National Weather Service provides critical information to wildfire incident commanders on weather patterns, wind events, precipitation and temperature spikes.

If a big wildfire comes up the incident commander for that specific fire will have to determine weather on their own, ONeil said.

Describing the cuts as a disaster, ONeil expressed concerns that systems statewide could fail in the face of flood, wildfire or other natural catastrophe.

With just a small level of staff they made a huge difference in basically a lot of different facets of our life, he said. And so Im very worried about things going forward. And one of the things Im worried about is that these cuts seem to be permanent and there seems to be no plan to mitigate them.

Correction: This article has been corrected. A previous version misstated the title of Ed Townsend and that he is leaving his job. Townsend is Science and Operations Office and he is not leaving his position. Pendletons meteorologist-in-charge, Michael Vescio, is retiring. His last day is March 22. The Bulletin regrets the error.

 2025 The Bulletin, Bend, Ore.. Visit www.bendbulletin.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Editor's note: This story was updated on 1:21 p.m. on March 3 to correct misleading information in Thomas Reese's quote.

An OU law student, joined by Oklahoma City University law students, created a petition to remove adjunct professor Connie Smothermon following the U.S. Supreme Courts review of the Richard Glossip case.

The 5-3 Supreme Court ruling granted Glossip a new trial after nearly three decades on death row. The ruling reads that Connie Smotherman, former Oklahoma County district attorney and head case prosecutor, committed prosecutorial misconduct because she knew her star witness, Justin Sneed, lied under oath.

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OU law student Travis Handler, who posted the petition Thursday morning, said he has been concerned about Connie Smothermans history since he began law school. Handler said he doesnt intend to malign the College of Law because it helps the community, but its professors need to be held accountable.

The most important part (of the) rule of law is that nobody's above the law and nobody's above accountability, Handler said. And I hope that the law school adheres to that.

Connie Smothermon has been an adjunct professor at the OU College of Law since 2004 and teaches at the Oklahoma City University School of Law. She also served as the head of the Domestic Violence Prosecution Unit in the Oklahoma County district attorneys office.

Pretty much everybody across the political spectrum or across the pro-prosecution, pro-defense at the law school that I spoke with were in agreement that this is an individual that should not be teaching here, Handler said.

According to the ruling, the prosecution knew Sneed had lied under oath about receiving a prescription for bipolar disorder. If Sneed was capable of lying under oath about that, the rest of his testimony is questionable, the majority opinion states.

In 1998, Glossip was convicted for his role in the murder of Barry Van Treese. Van Treese owned a Best Budget Inn in Oklahoma City, where Glossip lived and worked as a manager. Sneed, a hotel housekeeper who worked to pay for his stay there, beat Van Treese to death in a hotel room in 1997. Sneed testified in court that Glossip had promised to pay him $10,000 to commit the murder.

In return for this testimony, Sneed received life without parole instead of the death penalty. Glossip was convicted of first-degree murder and placed on death row while maintaining his innocence.

Glossip has eaten three last meals and bypassed nine execution dates due to multiple delays and appeals.

In 2023, Glossip petitioned the state Pardon and Parole Board for clemency. Connie Smothermons husband, Richard Smothermon, was on the board but recused himself from the case. A majority vote was required to approve Glossips petition, but without Richard Smothermans vote, the board was locked at 2-2, resulting in Glossip not being granted clemency.

That year, the state recovered documents showing Sneed had been prescribed lithium by a jail psychiatrist to treat bipolar disorder, which contradicted his testimony that he had never seen a psychiatrist and the prescription was accidental.

Supreme Court Justice Sonya Sotomayor concluded that Glossip was entitled to a new trial because the documents showed Sneeds testimony wasnt credible but was the only direct evidence for Glossips conviction.

According to the ruling, Connie Smothermons case notes showed she was aware of Sneeds lithium prescription and knew he lied under oath.

According to Handler, this violation was compelling enough that the Supreme Court did not even consider other violations committed by the prosecution.

I've got no issue with that, but it goes to show you that their opinion doesn't really even scratch the surface of just how deeply this ran and how well orchestrated it was on the part of the prosecution, Handler said.

Reed Smith, an international law firm, published an independent report in 2022 that found that 10 items of evidence from the murder scene were destroyed by the state district attorneys office, specifically naming Connie Smothermon, before Glossips trial, violating an agreement to safeguard evidence in capital murder cases. The report concluded that no reasonable juror would have convicted Glossip of murder.

NO PAYWALL, NONPARTISAN Students pay about $14 in fees that support the Daily. If you're not a student, please join those invested in OU and Norman who have given more than $110,000 to support our trustworthy, independent journalism. SUPPORT OUR LOCAL JOURNALISM

Following the Reed Smith report, Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond got involved in the case and helped propel it to the Supreme Court. According to a press release from the attorney generals office following the ruling, the Supreme Court affirmed Drummonds conclusion that the prosecution knew about the prescription and that Sneeds testimony was dishonest.

I am grateful the justices understood the gravity of the situation, Drummond said in the release. I have long maintained that I do not believe Mr. Glossip is innocent, but it is now an undeniable fact that he did not receive a fair trial.

Drummond said he will not pursue action against the prosecution in a press conference on Tuesday.

Neither Connie nor Richard Smotherman have responded to OU Dailys requests to comment.

In a statement, OU Marketing and Communications wrote the university is aware of the courts ruling and would not comment on personnel matters.

In a text message to OU Daily, Handler clarified the petition only calls for the removal of Connie Smothermon because the controversy with Richard Smothermon is secondary.

(Connie and Richard Smothermon) have treated this as not a big of a deal as it should have been treated, Handler said. And I think, frankly, neither Smothermon should be teaching here, which is a shame because they're both very well experienced prosecutors.

Thomas Reese, a public defender based in Tulsa, graduated from the OU College of Law in 2016. Reese said Connie Smothermon had years to correct her wrongdoing in the case but hasnt. Sneeds testimony was the only direct evidence used to condemn Glossip, and Connie Smotherman knew he was lying, he said.

Connie Smotherman knowingly put a (possibly) innocent man on death row, Reese said.

Connie Smothermon was trusted by the university, Reese said, and was built up as a role model to law students.

To have the United States Supreme Court step in and vacate a state court death sentence, especially for prosecutorial misconduct, is almost unheard of, Reese said.

Reese is working on a letter urging the university to fire Connie Smothermon, which he plans to hand deliver to College of Law Dean Anna Carpenter on Wednesday. He is gathering alums signatures and will send a copy to OU President Joseph Harroz Jr.

An OU law student, who wished to remain anonymous, said students in the College of Law have been aware of Connie and Richard Smothermons history with the Glossip case, and its the elephant in the room.

There's rumblings of students not being okay with it, not wanting our tuition money to be spent on her salary, the law student said. If it goes on any further, I will be disappointed, because she is not the best of us, and that's not how we do things."

The student said they purposely avoided enrolling in any of Connie or Richard Smothermons classes because of Smothermons history. The law student signed the petition calling for Connie Smothermons removal.

Handler said Connie Smothermon is a fine professor who is knowledgeable and passionate. If he hadnt found out, he never would have guessed shed be capable of misconduct.

Handler said he will share the petition with Carpenter in a few days and hopes shell be open to it. Handler said he doesnt blame the dean because she wasnt at OU when Connie Smothermon was hired.

People have known about this for a while, and efforts were not really made to remove Connie, Handler said. So the ball, the onus, is really on the administration now to respond appropriately.

This story was edited by Peggy Dodd, Anusha Fathepure and Ana Barboza. Sophie Hemker copy edited this story.
To my surprise, the dramatic film Witnesses is still available tonight for streaming at no charge via The Witnesses Initiative. Evidently, nobody has bothered to take it down yet. If you wish to take advantage of this offer, you should do so quickly. I cant guarantee that it will last even into tomorrow.

The other Interpreter Foundation dramatic film, Six Days in August (2024), is also available for streaming, on several platforms. However, there is (in most cases) a modest charge for streaming it that we are not at liberty to waive: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/six-days-in-august-2024

On Tuesday, Im scheduled to spend several hours interviewing Ron Esplin, who currently serves as a general editor of The Joseph Smith Papers and as director of the Brigham Young Center, for the docudrama portion of the overall Six Days in August project, a series of short features that were calling Becoming Brigham. So, in preparation for the interview, Ive just finished rereading Ronald K. Esplin, Authority, Keys, and the Measures of Joseph: A Detailed Exploration of 1844 Succession, in Jeffrey M. Bradshaw, ed., Joseph Smith: A Life Lived in Crescendo (Orem: The Interpreter Foundation and Salt Lake City: Eborn Books, 2024), 745-882. It builds upon his very important earlier article, Ronald K. Esplin, Joseph, Brigham and the Twelve: A Succession of Continuity, BYU Studies 21/3 (1981): 301-341.

My impression upon re-reading this new piece is the same as my impression from my initial reading of it, when the article was still in manuscript: It is a brilliant and extraordinarily important contribution to scholarship on Latter-day Saint history. I want to share one of the many passages from it that I marked as I was going through the article:

There were not, Dr. Esplin argues,

multiple claimants with plausible claims clamoring to be heard. Before the Twelve returned to Nauvoo from their summer mission in the East, there was one: Sidney Rigdon. . . . But after Brigham Young, President of the Quorum of the Twelve, and most of his quorum returned returned to Nauvoo in early August 1844 and presented their case, the decision for most Latter-day Saints in Nauvoo was relatively straightforward. . . . The crisis was real. There was no precedent. Many things might have gone awry. But the backstory of how Joseph Smith prepared Brigham Young and the Twelve to lead and why the Saints so quickly supported them makes for a different story than one of a deep and lengthy succession crisis. It was not a lengthy crisis. Why? Because if the matter rested on authority, no one else did or could make an equally authoritative claim to having priesthood authority and keys to continue forward. If it was a question of who Joseph had confided in, leaned on, and prepared to lead in his absence, no one in Nauvoo in 1844 did or could offer a case comparable to that of Brigham Young and the Twelve. Finally, on the question of who the Saints had confidence in, there was no rival to Brigham Young and the Twelve. Especially the thousands in Nauvoo who had come from Great Britain felt a love for and loyalty to the Twelve. . . . [N]ot only did those who sought an alternative to the Twelve not have anyone to turn to with an equal claim to authority, most of the minority who sought an alternative to the Twelves did so less from a quarrel with the claims Young and the Twelve made to have authority from Joseph, but because they had a quarrel with the program. They were searching for a way to hold on to the Book of Mormon, to the Restoration, to earlier Latter-day Saint teachings without embracing the temple and its ordinances, and the new, sometimes radical (for traditional Christians) teachings that characterized Joseph Smiths last years in Nauvoo. (746, italics in the original) Brigham Young and the Quorum of the Twelve were the only ones on the ground in Nauvoo in 1844 with a plausible claim to lead  because Joseph Smith had prepared them and had given them all the priesthood keys and authority needed to do so in his absence. No one else held all the keys, no one else had the confidence of most of the people, no one else knew the full program in detail, and therefore no one seriously challenged their leadership. (747)

My central understanding of the succession of 1844 has not changed since my earlier study, but today we can add important new details that flesh out the story. My focus will be on priesthood keys and how Joseph Smith not only conveyed to Brigham Young and the Twelve all the keys I have received, but how he prepared them with the instruction  especially pertaining to temple ordinances  to see that the Saints received the blessings and benefit of those keys even if it be in his absence. We will see that Joseph Smith made these preparations in part because he understood that his own time was short and that it was essential to put in place others with the authority and training to see that the temple, the ordinances, and the Restoration would advance in his absence. I demonstrated in a different earlier study that Joseph Smith knew when he founded Nauvoo that he would have but little time and only this final opportunity to put in place all that was necessary to fulfill his mission and that the temple and its ordinances were core to that mission. Here, my focus will be on him preparing Brigham Young and the Quorum of the Twelve to carry that mission forward when he was gone. (748)

Dr. Esplin largely devotes the rest of his very substantial and massively documented essay to justifying the assertions that he makes in the early paragraphs from it that I cite above. It is, in my judgment, a seminal piece of historical scholarship. Those who doubt that Brigham and the Twelve legitimately succeeded Joseph Smith in the leadership of the Church, and those who favor, say, Sidney Rigdon, or James Strang, or Joseph Smith III, have much to contend against with this article.
There are only so many ways to make a laptop, right? Screen on one half, keyboard on the other, hinge in the middle. Thats the way its been going for decades, save for the occasional experiment.

But Lenovo likes to mix things up, and at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, its doing just that with super-tall screens, double screens, triple screens Theyre all on display, but most wont make it to market.

The ThinkBook Codename Flip highlights the companys portfolio. It looks a little goofy in still images, but think of it as a fusion between a folding phone and a laptop and youre pretty much there. The super-tall, 18.1-inch OLED touchscreen display is essentially two screens stacked on top of one another, with a hinge in the middle that lets the screen fold backwards. The rear screen, which is essentially just the top half of the same plastic display, can be used to present to other users without needing a secondary monitor.

Lenovo

The rest of the laptop is fairly conventional, though if you look closely you can see that a kickstand deploys on the rear side for a little extra stability in that super-tall vertical orientation. Lenovo also added some integrated haptic buttons with light-up indicators to the touchpad, a design element weve seen on some Asus and Dell laptops before.

Though the ThinkBook Plus laptop line has been where Lenovo sometimes brings outlandish designs to the retail market, theres no indication that Codename Flip will actually be sold anytime soon. With a vulnerable folding screen exposed on top when the laptop is closed, I cant imagine it ever will.

What if you want that extra screen real estate to be horizontal? Enter the Magic Bay Dual Display Concept. This add-on for the (real) ThinkBook 16P gives the laptop two extra 13-inch screens, deploying to the left and right on hinges. The device connects to Lenovos proprietary Magic Bay expansion port which is pretty much the only way it varies from existing designs that youve been able to buy on Amazon for years. Its a slick-looking presentation, but once again, this is only a concept.

Lenovo

Some less-outlandish variations on the extra screen design were also on display at MWC 2025, including the Tiko and Tiko Pro, which add a cute little circular screen to the top of the laptop or a very stretched-out horizontal one, respectively. These designs were positioned as permanent spots for AI-powered extras, though I think one promo image showing a live transcription of a meeting might be more useful. That said, theres nothing on display (sorry) in these concepts that cant be done with a regular application running on your laptops main window.

Lenovo also showed off a glasses-free 3D laptop display. But once again, its purely a concept, which seems underwhelming to me since those devices already exist on retail shelves, albeit in very limited numbers.

Lenovo

What about real, non-concept designs that you might actually be able to buy? Most of what Lenovo had to share at the trade show are variations on existing ThinkPad and ThinkBook laptops, all getting new chips and gently redesigned chassis for release later this year.

The lone exception is the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, the first convertible design to be given the moniker of Lenovos most venerated workhorse laptop. The 2-in-1 is based on an Intel Core 200H/U series platform, with a 14-inch 19201200 LCD screen, up to 64GB of RAM (soldered in place, sadly) and up to a terabyte of speedy PCIe Gen5 storage.

Lenovo

The T14s 2-in-1 chassis is a mix of magnesium and aluminum parts, with double USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-A, HDMI, and Ethernet ports, plus an optional SIM card slot if you go for the optional cellular connection. Other goodies include an IR camera, a physical privacy shutter, and a fingerprint reader. Thats a lot of connectivity options for a 2-in-1 design, but business travelers will appreciate it. They might think a little less of the 3.08-pound (1.4 kilograms) weight class or 19.21mm thickness, especially with a middle-of-the-road 58 watt-hour battery.

The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 will be available starting in June for 1,649 before VAT. Thats about $1,730 USD, though I wouldnt nail that down in terms of US price since were in the middle of a trade war thats driving up expenses across the board.
So, you finally managed to get your hands on an RTX 5090 after the paperwork cleared on your second mortgage, only to discover that its giving you 10 percent fewer frames in Minecraft than you expected? The problem could be missing ROP hardware, and now CPU-Z can narrow it down for you with its latest update.

To be more specific, CPU-Z could always give you a precise count of Render Output Units (ROP), but now itll show a bright purple warning on its web-based validation page if the number of ROPs in your physical card doesnt match the proper number according to its specifications.

Nvidias RTX 5090 should have 176 ROPs and the 5070 Ti should have 96, but some users are finding that their cards are missing eight of them on their cards. That results in measurably reduced performance versus unaffected cards. (Nvidia blames the missing ROP hardware on a manufacturing defect, which is covered under warranty.)

Igors Lab lays out the process for spotting whether or not your RTX 50-series card is affected, first shown by user Doc TB on Twitter. Run the latest version of CPU-Z, then click the Validate button at the bottom. Enter an email address (a fake one is fine) and click Submit, which will send a configuration file for your hardware to CPU-Zs validation server and open a web page in your browser with the results.

Scroll down to the Graphics Card (GPU) section of the page, and in the Units row youll see your shaders and render units. If the ROP number doesnt match the correct number according to your cards manufacturer specifications, youll see the alert in purple text (as seen above).

Nvidia acknowledges the missing ROP issue and says that the anomaly, which has been corrected on the manufacturing end, only affected 0.5 percent of the initial RTX 5090 and 5070 Ti batches. Thats nice, I suppose, but thats still hundreds or possibly thousands of people who dropped a lot of money on the latest and greatest card, only to be stuck with a slow and frustrating return-to-manufacturer experience to get the full performance that they paid for.
Actress Michelle Trachtenberg, known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, died last week at 39. Photo by Theo Wargo/WireImage/Getty Images

Fans of the late actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who died last week at 39, are upset over her omission during the Oscars' in memoriam segment on Sunday evening.

As in past years, a moment was taken during the ceremony to honor those members of the film industry who had passed away over the past year.

Notable people recognized during the segment include Gene Hackman, David Lynch, Maggie Smith, and Donald Sutherland, among many others.

Trachtenbergs name, however, was left out, inciting fans to protest her omission on social media.

Where is Michelle Trachtenberg in the memoriam, one person wrote on X. She deserved to be there.

No tribute for Michelle Trachtenberg? Lame, another wrote.

I know Michelle Trachtenberg was more famous for her TV roles, someone else posted. But she did work in many films. And she deserved to be included in the In Memoriam.

Trachtenberg, best known for her roles on shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl, was found by her mother on Feb. 26 in her New York City apartment. Authorities did suspect any foul play in her death, as she recently had a liver transplant and could have experienced complications.

The Office of Chief Medical Examiner in New York City has ruled that her cause and manner of death are undetermined.

Trachtenberg was not the only person who was not recognized during the segment. Romeo and Juliet star Olivia Hussey, 90210 star Shannen Doherty and Candyman actor Tony Todd were also excluded.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the United States will be ready to resume interaction when Ukraine is ready for peace, he said in an interview with ABC on Sunday.

"Nobody here is claiming Vladimir Putin is going to bet the Nobel Peace Prize ... We need to figure out - is there a way to stop the war? And the only way you are going to do that is to get Russians engaged in negotiations," Rubio said on ABC's ThisWeek program.

The United States will be ready to resume interaction when Ukraine is ready for peace, and this is obviously what the president is aiming for, Rubio emphasized.
Canadians have gotten back against the United States in their own way.

And theyre doing it through one of the most important forms of fuel Americans have: coffee.

The Washington Post reports how  in an open show of discontent against U.S. President Donald Trumps proposed tariffs on Canadian goods  Cafe Belem in Toronto has renamed the Americano.

The new name? The Canadiano.

Its good for us to just, you know, stand up for being ourselves and reminding other peoplethat were not to be pushed around and bullied by others, says owner William Oliveira to the publication.

And Cafe Belem isnt the only coffee joint joining in on this quiet rebellion: The National Post further reports how British Columbia-based Kicking Horse has done the same. In fact, the location is encouraging other coffee shops to ride this swell of Canadian patriotism by downloading and putting up a window display that reads PROUDLY SERVING CANADIANOS: Sorry Americano. Its Canadiano now.

Now, more than ever we need to stick together and wear our Canadian pride on our (coffee) sleeves, writes Kicking Horse Chief Marketing Officer, Lori Hatcher-Hillier, via press release.

Put this in my stories yesterday, found a new coffee, reads one comment on the Kicking Horse instagram post concerning this topic. Go Canadian. Love it.

According to Firstpost, many cafe owners have admitted that the Canadiano wont be a permanent menu item; theyll most likely change the drink back to Americano in the future.

How long Canadianos will be staying on Canadian coffee memories, however, remains to be seen.
A wildfire near Erial Road in Gloucester Township, New Jersey, glows in the night while firefighters work to battle the blaze on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Gloucester Township Police Department, provided

Dozens of firefighters across New Jersey battled three wildfires Saturday night in separate parts of the state, as weekend gusts helped spread the flames.

The fires  in Gloucester Township, Hopewell Township and Pennsville  erupted while gusts as high as 45 mph were recorded on Saturday. All of the fires remained under investigation on Sunday.
A former city public works director has levelled a series of charges at Mayor Williams in his wrongful termination lawsuit. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

Harrisburg Mayor Wanda Williams has insisted she was acting well within her rights as the citys chief executive when she fired City Public Works Director Nate Spriggs in June 2022.

However a federal court eventually decides that question, Spriggs wrongful termination lawsuit against the city has already opened up a number of other questions about the mayor, just as she kicks off a race for a second term in a crowded Democratic primary.

As one example: Harrisburg taxpayers have paid more than $20,000 in legal fees over the last two years for representation of the mayors office in an unspecified investigation, filings in the Spriggs case reveal.

Dating back to late 2022, the payments to Philadelphia attorney Keir Bradford-Grey reached a cumulative $21,714 through February 2024.

Bradford-Grey, who is not representing Williams for the Spriggs suit, declined comment when reached by PennLive about her work earlier this month, stating only: The mayor is my client, and thats my allegiance.

She also did not respond to a later set of emailed questions.

Williams, however, in a July 2024 deposition given in the Spriggs case, seemed to confirm that she had been interviewed by the State Ethics Commission.

At the time of the deposition, the mayor said, her understanding was that investigation was still pending.

The State Ethics Commission looks into reported violations of the Ethics Code, which is primarily designed to keep elected and other government officials from using public offices for financial gain for themselves or close family relatives.

Mary Fox, executive director of the State Ethics Commission, declined comment, as per policy to keep all agency business confidential until violations are found and disposed of.

If Ethics Act violations are found, the commission has the authority to fine violators and order restitution payments to affected entities. In the most egregious cases, it also has the authority to recommend to the attorney general or other prosecutors that criminal charges be brought.

There have been no commission orders published involving Williams, or any other top city employees, since the time that Bradford-Grey was retained.

If Williams was the subject of an investigation that had been closed, she would have been notified of that.

The mayor, through her spokeswoman, declined PennLives request for an interview about some of the new information in Spriggs' suit.

Williams did, however, send this statement last week in response to a series of emailed questions:

At my lawyers direction, and given that there is litigation pending, I am constrained to comment other than to say that the civil lawsuit of a disgruntled former employee who was fired for cause are false, and I look forward to defending my good name and reputation at trialif the case even makes it that far and is not thrown out by the Court.

I have always conducted myself with integrity and with the best interests of the City and its citizens at the center of each and every decision that I make as Mayor. I look forward to continuing to lead this great City over the next five years.

The legal fees are among several revelations contained in recently filed depositions of Williams, Spriggs and others in Spriggs' suit contesting his June 2022 firing.

Others include:

Confirmation by Williams that she has had as many as five relatives on the citys payroll during her administration, including, in addition to her son, a niece and a granddaughter in full-time jobs.

Two other grandchildren work seasonal jobs with the Parks Department.

Williams, on the advice of City Solicitor Neil Grover, said she has taken herself out of the approval chain required for most actions regarding their positions.

Questions about placement of a city-owned Dumpster outside Williams' Wiconisco Street residence to discard unwanted items when the mayor and her husband moved to a new residence in early 2022.

Spriggs has alleged its an example of the mayor using city resources for her personal benefit; Williams has insisted that the Dumpster was made available to the broader neighborhood, as part of one of Public Works' periodic community clean-up efforts.

He didnt do it just for me, Williams stated in her deposition.

Spriggs' allegations that Williams repeatedly pressured Spriggs to promote her son, Dion Dockens, to a supervisory position in the Public Works Department.

At one meeting in early May 2022, shortly after Spriggs told her he couldnt go forward with the promotion, he testified, an angry Williams threatened to fire everybody in the room.

Williams, in her own deposition, has contended it was Spriggs who first mentioned the idea that he would pursue a promotion for Dockens if Williams gave him the Public Works job.

Williams said her sons promotion was not a priority for her.

The heart of the case

Spriggs alleges his dismissal came in retaliation for speaking up about concerns that promoting Dockens to a supervisory position could run afoul of the state Ethics Code.

But Williams has testified in depositions that said she acted because Spriggs had submitted paperwork seeking a raise for one of his supervisors in direct contradiction of Williams' prior declarations to Spriggs against mid-year raises.

Then-City Business Administrator Dan Hartman, in his own deposition in the suit, confirmed he suggested to Williams that the issue could be considered a fireable offense, for insubordination.

That was a direct violation of previous orders given, Hartman explained in his testimony, adding that it came amid a wash of other labor / management issues under Spriggs.

We had a very, very high rate of employees that were leaving the department, said Hartman, who has since left City Hall and taken a position in state government.

But Spriggs argues Williams' bad faith in firing him is evident from her own deposition testimony that suggests she believed - at the time she acted - Spriggs sought the pay raise authorization for a raise for himself.

Mr. Spriggs had been with me already to talk about a increase and it was like he as just ignoring the fact that my response was no, Williams stated in her deposition.

I was concerned that he went over my head to put in a payroll action form.

In fact, the paperwork Spriggs submitted was for one of his deputy directors.

Williams and Hartman have countered that whomever the paperwork was for, it still violated their declaration that no mid-year raises were going to supervisors in their first year with the city.

I wasnt prepared to do anything for anybody in the City of Harrisburg because of the fact that we had a $638 million deficit that I had to be concerned with, the mayor said.

Here a closer look at some of the other new information contained in the court filings.

Family ties

Williams confirmed in her deposition that in addition to Dion, who has worked in Harrisburgs sanitation department since 2012, she has two other family members who took full-time city jobs during her first term.

A niece, Patrice Dockens, works in the Economic Development office, and a granddaughter Dionne Dockens took a full-time job in Parks and Recreation last year after several years' service as a seasonal employee.

Two other grandchildren, Williams said, worked summer programs for Parks and Rec.

Williams said, on advice from City Solicitor Neil Grover, she has removed herself from the citys established approval chains on most actions involving her relatives.

The exception, she said, would be on contract-based actions that apply equally to whole classes of employees.

The Dumpster

Williams said she and her husband, Jerome, moved to 3209 Pennwood Road - a home owned by longtime Harrisburg Democratic Party leader Peggy Grove - in the first half of 2022.

Asked about the citys provision of a Dumpster near their Wiconisco Street residence at the time of the move, Williams insisted it wasnt for her alone.

It was done with knowledge of it being for community clean-up, because I asked him (Spriggs) previously for a community clean-up, Williams said.

A text entered into evidence in the case from May 25, 2022 from Williams to Spriggs states:

Can you please pick up the dumpster tomorrow morning and bring it back, I have a few more things to put in it! My residents have also utilized the dumpster. A great idea to get rid of items for them!

Yes Maam, will do, said Spriggs' response.

The promotion

Spriggs has alleged in his deposition that Williams raised the issue of a promotion for Dockens even before she was sworn into office in January 2022.

Williams knew she was on a clear track to the Mayors office after winning the Democratic primary in May 2021.

That summer, Spriggs said, she made initial overtures to him to consider coming back to the city to run her Department of Public Works. At the time Spriggs, who had formerly worked for the city, was in a similar position in neighboring Susquehanna Township.

During a subsequent conversation in November, Spriggs said, Williams asked him about promoting her son, who had been a longtime laborer in the department, to a supervisory post.

What Spriggs described as the mayors pressure campaign continued through that winter and spring, and he described taking several steps to try to appease her along the way, including removing a specific requirement for a valid commercial drivers license in order to keep the door to a promotion open to Dockens, who did not have an active CDL.

Under the proposed change, Spriggs said, candidates for the supervisory position would be given one year to obtain the CDL.

But ultimately, after a state Ethics Code training set up by Grover in April 2022, Spriggs said, he approached the solicitor about the Dockens situation and they resolved that it should not go forward.

Grover said his position was that any action on a promotion of Dion Dockens must at least wait until after the city could get an advisory opinion on the matter from the State Ethics Commission.

At a meeting the following week, after Spriggs had informed Williams of his decision, he said the mayor threatened to fire everyone involved.

Gover, in his separate deposition, said he did not recall specific threats at that meeting, though he said he has heard Williams threaten firings before.

Its just a way she responds to situations, he said.

The depositions, all filed within the last several weeks, are contained in a series of filings pertaining to the citys efforts to get Spriggs' suit dismissed.

Outside of court, Spriggs recently shared some of the evidence with City Council members.

His attorney, Marc Weinstein, said its not clear to him that council was ever made aware that the city was paying for Williams' legal representation by Bradford-Grey, for example, and he believes they should know as a matter of good governance.

The city and Williams motion to dismiss the case is pending before U.S. District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson.
Joe Rogan had Elon Musk back on his podcast heading into the weekend, and after the two got through talking, the conspiracy theorists were fired up about the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump in Pa.

And CNN  well, it cant be appreciating the unwarranted heat directed at it.

Rogan and Musk also discussed the billionaires controversial hand gesture at President Donald Trumps inauguration that many believed resembled a Nazi salute, and Rogan said he thought it was strange that people that people would think that way. Then Musk threw out a few Nazi puns, telling Rogan I did not see it coming, while discussing folks calling him a Nazi on X after the incident.

People will Goebbels anything down, he added.

The two found that pretty, darned funny, and had some laughs, but that wasnt the issue for CNN. That came when Rogan wondered openly about the assassination attempt on Trump at his rally in Butler last year.

After first wondering if BlackRock was involved, Rogan pivoted.

I highly doubt it would be a corporation that chooses to do something like this, he said. I think more likely its individuals involved that recognize that its beneficial to them if he gets assassinated. And so, a small group of people carry something out, and with this kid, we dont know anything, and everyone stopped asking question and there was never a formal report. There was never press conferences when they detailed all the information that we know currently and where the investigation stands at the moment. What we know is we have a very young kid, who was filmed, they knew he was there with a rangefinder a half an hour before the event.

The next part is what had folks targeting CNN.

You also know that CNN streamed it live, which I do not believe they did for any other rally, and certainly not for a rally in the middle of nowhere in Pennsylvania, Rogan said. Like, theres a lot of weird shit.

That led many of the conspiracy theorists to believe that Rogan was suggesting that CNN might have known about the attempt in advance. Of course, Rogan is a big enough name that he could have reached out to CNN to ask about that, and all of this could have been avoided.

But he didnt and so folks took it and ran with it.

What are the chances @CNN was tipped off to stream the Butler rally? billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman wrote on Twitter. Why isnt this worthy of an investigation? It shouldnt be too hard to figure out who orders the coverage and why.

CNN, of course, did have an answer and it does make sense. If anyone cares.

CNN provided live coverage of President Trumps Butler, PA rally in anticipation of news about his pick for Vice President. Any suggestion contrary to that fact is completely false.  CNN Communications (@CNNPR) March 2, 2025

CNN provided live coverage of President Trumps Butler, PA, rally in anticipation of news about his pick of Vice President, the network said while responding to several accounts on X. Any suggestion contrary to that fact is completely false.
MAGA Republicans like Tom Cotton are rewriting the history of Russias invasion of Ukraine. The invasion and dismantling of Ukraine started in 2014 with the annexation of Crimea, but according to Cotton, it started in 2022 due to Bidens policies, which goaded Putin into defending Russia by invading.

MAGA Republicans do not mention that fighting continued since 2014 between Ukrainian troops and Russians in eastern Ukraine before that. In a revealing moment, Trump claimed that both he and Putin were victims of a witch hunt and hoax perpetrated by Democrats about Russian election interference.

Trump ignored the facts that other countries, especially Baltic countries contributed heavily to the defense of Ukraine as well as the European Union. He continually pushes the lie that the United States contributed $350 billion dollars to Ukraines defense, when the figure is more like $32 billion.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy will come to the United States if the U.S. president invites him with a constructive dialogue to solve real problems.

"If the president of the United States of America invites me with a constructive dialogue, I represent the interests of a country that depends very much on support, on partnership. And if I am invited for a constructive dialogue, to solve real problems, for serious questions and real decisive answers, I will," Zelenskyy said during a conversation with the British media on Sunday.

"Out of respect for America, for the American people, and for the president, and for the two parties, for the United States as a whole," the head of state of Ukraine added.
Columbia, SC (29201)

Today

Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High 93F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 73F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Tropical storm conditions possible. Rain diminishing to a few showers this afternoon. High around 85F. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Tropical storm conditions possible. Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving overnight. Low 74F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Reporter

Conor Hughes covers Greenville County for The Post and Courier. He has been reporting on South Carolina's Upstate for close to a decade, writing about everything from crime, to development, to politics during that time.
Mount Pleasant, SC (29464)

Today

Tropical storm conditions possible. A steady rain this morning. Showers continuing this afternoon. High 83F. Winds NE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch..

Tonight

Tropical storm conditions possible. Rain showers early with scattered thunderstorms arriving overnight. Low 74F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, commenting on the meeting of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with the U.S. administration at the Oval Office, supported the Ukrainian leader.

In a media briefing following the Ukraine summit in London on Sunday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that in 2014, Russia decided to invade Ukraine, occupy Crimea, and take control of parts of eastern Ukraine. As a result, Russia was expelled from the G7. He added that in 2022, Russia broke the existing ceasefire and launched an invasion of Ukraine, initially aiming to capture Kyiv in three days and the entire country in three weeks, but this plan failed.

Trudeau emphasized that Russia continues to attempt to seize more territory in Ukraine and suggested that the war could end immediately if Russia decided to halt its illegal invasion.

Trudeau further mentioned that, during a meeting at the Oval Office on Friday, President Zelenskyy had stated that Vladimir Putin was a liar and a criminal, and that he could not be trusted to honor any agreements, given his history of violating them. The Prime Minister expressed his full support for Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine.

During the summit, Trudeau announced new sanctions against 10 individuals and 21 entities, including paramilitary organizations and their leaders, to help counter Russias use of third-party organizations and countries to advance its political and military goals in Ukraine. To date, Canada has imposed sanctions on more than 3,000 individuals and entities involved in Russias aggression.

Trudeau also highlighted Canadas leadership in supporting Ukraine since the start of Russias full-scale invasion in 2022, which includes nearly $20 billion in multifaceted assistance, ranging from military assistance  such as armored vehicles and unmanned technology  to humanitarian and financial assistance aimed at Ukraines recovery and reconstruction.
Spartanburg, SC (29301)

Today

Mostly sunny. Hot. High 91F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low around 70F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Reporter

Christian spent six years in Myrtle Beach before moving to the Upstate. When he's not working, he's reading a book, making a mess in the kitchen or running around Spartanburg.
PR-Inside.com: 2025-03-03 16:01:01

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Regional Traffic Services, a trusted provider of intelligent work zone equipment, delivers solutions tailored to Houston's unique challenges.HOUSTON, TEXAS / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Managing traffic in a bustling city like Houston requires reliable tools to ensure safety and efficiency. Arrow boards , a cornerstone of modern traffic control, are indispensable for guiding drivers through construction zones, detours, and emergencies. arrow board arrow boardRegional Traffic Services, a trusted provider of intelligent work zone equipment, delivers solutions tailored to Houston's unique challenges."Our mission is simple: to provide tools that protect lives and keep traffic flowing," says Stan Navratil, CEO of Regional Traffic Services. "We combine innovation with unmatched customer service to meet the needs of our clients every step of the way." Message Board Experts in HoustonRegional Traffic Services has established itself as a leader in providing message boards, customer service, and competitive pricing in Houston. The company emphasizes the importance of using certified portable and changeable message signs to eliminate inefficiencies and reduce the time spent creating and scheduling messages.Stan Navratil adds, "Clients rely on us not just for equipment but for peace of mind. Every message board is easy to use, reliable, and ready to perform when it matters most." Houston Arrow Board Rental Equipment & Traffic Control ServicesDowntown Houston has seen a significant increase in demand for arrow boards to manage traffic control and enhance safety on highways and interstates. Regional Traffic Services offers solar-powered arrow boards, ensuring uninterrupted functionality even during power outages."Reliability is critical in traffic control," explains Navratil. "Our solar-powered arrow boards offer the best lifetime value, and anti-theft batteries ensure projects stay on track." Benefits of Arrow Boards in HoustonSolar-powered arrow boards are ideal for long-term projects for their durability and energy efficiency. These boards are designed to withstand Houston's unpredictable weather, from intense heat to heavy rain and hurricane-force winds, ensuring reliable performance in any condition.In addition to their ease of use, Houston arrow boards are highly versatile. They can be deployed in various scenarios, from construction zones and roadwork to special events and accident scenes. Their portability and quick deployment make them indispensable for managing traffic in a fast-paced city like Houston.Stan Navratil notes, "Our equipment focuses on user convenience and efficiency. This commitment to simplicity ensures an optimal experience for all users." About Regional Traffic ServicesWith over 18 years of combined experience, Regional Traffic Services has become a leader in intelligent work zone safety equipment. Its inventory includes portable message signs, radar speed trailers, truck-mounted attenuators, and arrow boards, ensuring readiness for projects of any size or urgency.To Schedule a Rental or Learn More:Call (713) 476-9300 | Visit www.regionaltrafficservices.com Contact InformationStan NavratilCEOstan@ regionaltrafficservices.com 713-476-9300SOURCE: Regional Traffic Services
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Metallurgical test work on Master Composite reaffirms production of DRI grade iron concentrate with combined Silica and Alumina below 2.5%;DRI grade concentrate demand to grow at a CAGR of over 9.0% p.a. for the next decade according to industry forecastsEnhanced economic magnetite iron recovery of 83%;Variability test work of the primary domains has commenced;Additional test work focused on equipment sizing is now ongoing ;Feasibility study targeted for Q1 2026(All numbers reported in US dollars)TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 /Cerrado Gold Inc. ( TSX.V:CERT)(OTCQX:CRDOF) ("Cerrado" or the "Company") is pleased to announce further positive metallurgical test results confirming the ability to produce High Purity, DRI Grade 67% iron concentrates at its Mont Sorcier magnetite iron ore project located mainly in the Cree territory of Eeyou Istchee James Bay, about twenty kilometres east of Chibougamau, Quebec, held through its 100% owned subsidiary, Voyager Metals Inc. The metallurgical tests results reflect a continuation of the test work announced in March 2024 which will be used to determine the final flow sheet design for the feasibility study at Mont Sorcier, which is expected to be completed in Q1 026.The design and analysis of the metallurgical test work program is being conducted by Soutex Inc., a consultancy firm specializing in ore processing and metallurgical processes based in Quebec City, Quebec, with test work completed by SGS Canada, one of the world's leading testing, inspection and certification companies based in Quebec City.This latest phase of test work was focused on greater detailed analysis of the Master Composite for the Mont Sorcier orebody to provide a higher degree of confidence in the ability to produce a high purity iron concentrate grading at least 67% iron with low Silica and Alumina; making it suitable to be classified as a Direct Reduction Iron ("DRI") grade product. Such a product significantly reduces the overall emission of greenhouse gases in steel production compared to other lower grade concentrates and commands a significant price premium in the market. High grade concentrates have the potential to be used in electric arc furnaces to produce steel products, further reducing emissions. In addition, as the Mont Sorcier project is a magnetite material, this would also reduce the use of coal in the steel making process, further lowering overall emission levels. Numerous industry publications are forecasting that overall demand for DRI grade iron concentrate is forecasted to grow at over 9.0% pa for the next decadeAs the strong global demand for Green Steel increases, demand and price premiums paid for higher grade products is expected to continue to increase and remain well above the most commonly traded iron products and will replace demand for lower grade materials. The ability to produce High Purity iron concentrates places Mont Sorcier as a project capable of delivering Critical and Strategic High Purity Iron as outlined by the Quebec Government, as it aspires to become a leader to support energy transition through the development of critical and strategic minerals and reduce overall global emissions.Following the promising results obtained in early 2024 that showed the initial ability to produce concentrate grading 67% iron, further test work, completed on a larger representative master composite of the Mont Sorcier property, confirmed the initial positive outcomes. A summary of the test work program and results is outlined below:The material was ground to a size of minus 2 mm and subjected to a magnetic separation process.The concentrate of the first magnetic separation stage, the cobber stage, was reground to a P80 of 106m and underwent a rougher magnetic separation process. The rougher concentrate was then reground to a P80 of 38m, subjected to a hydroseparation stage to remove low-density fine material and was then passed through a final cleaning magnetic separation stage.The magnetic concentrate was then processed through a reverse iron flotation stage to produce a low-silica concentrate.These processing steps led to the production of a concentrate grading 67% iron 1.8% silica for an economic magnetic iron recovery of +72%. The addition of a scavenger flotation circuit further improved the global economic magnetic iron recovery to +83% (+68% total iron), representing a significant enhancement compared to the initial results, as shown in the table below:Testwork is currently ongoing with the processing of 18 variability samples through the flowsheet, aiming to assess the performance of different samples representative of the Mont-Sorcier orebody. A 3 tonne bulk sample is also being processed to generate representative concentrate. Going forward, this material will be used to conduct specific equipment test work that will support the equipment design and selection for the feasibility study.Mark Brennan, CEO and Chairman, stated: "As the global steel markets continue to aim to reduce overall emissions in the steel production process, concentrates such as those from Mont Sorcier are expected to be in high demand to support this transition and replace lower grade materials. With the further test work results continuing to support and enhance the ability to produce DRI grade 67% iron concentrates with low levels of impurities, we anticipate interest to unlock the value we see in the Mont Sorcier project to increase as we progress through the feasibility stage.r. ."Review of Technical InformationThe technical information contained in this news release with respect to the Mont Sorcier Project has been reviewed and approved on behalf of Voyager by Pierre-Jean Lafleur of Voyager Metals, who is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101").About CerradoCerrado Gold is a Toronto-based gold production, development, and exploration company focused on gold projects in South America. The Company is the 100% owner of both the producing Minera Don Nicolas and Las Calandrias mine in Santa Cruz province, Argentina In Canada, Cerrado Gold is developing it's 100% owned Mont Sorcier Iron Ore and Vanadium project located outside of Chibougamou, Quebec.In Argentina, Cerrado is maximizing asset value at its Minera Don Nicolas operation through continued operational optimization and is growing production through its operations at the Las Calandrias Heap Leach project. An extensive campaign of exploration is ongoing to further unlock potential resources in our highly prospective land package in the heart of the Deseado Masiff.In Canada, Cerrado holds a 100% interest in the Mont Sorcier Iron Ore and Vanadium proj
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / March 2, 2025 / If you suffered a loss on your Venture Global, Inc. (NYSE:VG) investment and want to learn about a potential recovery under the federal securities laws, follow the link below for more information:or contact Joseph E. Levi, Esq. via email at jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com or call (212) 363-7500 to speak to our team of experienced shareholder advocates.THE LAWSUIT: This lawsuit is on behalf of all shareholders that purchased stock pursuant and/or traceable to Venture's registration statement for the initial public offering held on or about January 24, 2025.CASE DETAILS: According to the complaint, Venture completed its initial public offering on January 27, 2025, selling 70 million shares at $24.00 per share. On February 5, 2025, TotalEnergies, an energy company that was a target customer of Venture, rejected opportunities to become a long-term customer of Venture, citing lack of trust. In particular, TotalEnergies CEO, stated that he was approached by Venture to see if the company would be interested in a long-term supply contract for liquefied natural gas from the Calcasieu Pass terminal in Louisiana, but he rejected the offer "because of what they are doing."Venture is currently facing legal challenges from existing large clients, such as BP and Shell, due to delays in supply contracts as Venture commissions its projects. Given the fact that defendants ability to deliver liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the world and to continue development of Venture's five natural gas liquefication and export projects depends on customer contracts, defendants' failure to account for and address these issues caused statements in Venture's registration statement to be false and/or materially misleading at the time of the initial public offering.WHAT'S NEXT? If you suffered a loss in Venture stock during the relevant time frame - even if you still hold your shares - go to https://zlk.com/pslra-1/venture-global-inc-lawsuit-submission-form?prid=133409&wire=1 to learn about your rights to seek a recovery. There is no cost or obligation to participate.WHY LEVI & KORSINSKY: Over the past 20 years, Levi & Korsinsky LLP has established itself as a nationally-recognized securities litigation firm that has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for aggrieved shareholders and built a track record of winning high-stakes cases. The firm has extensive expertise representing investors in complex securities litigation and a team of over 70 employees to serve our clients. For seven years in a row, Levi & Korsinsky has ranked in ISS Securities Class Action Services' Top 50 Report as one of the top securities litigation firms in the United States. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.CONTACT: Levi & Korsinsky, LLPJoseph E. Levi, Esq.Ed Korsinsky, Esq.33 Whitehall Street, 17th FloorNew York, NY 10004 jlevi@ levikorsinsky.com Tel: (212) 363-7500Fax: (212) 363-7171 https://zlk.com/ SOURCE: Levi & Korsinsky, LLP
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Change: The first sentence of the second paragraph has been removed.SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / General Atomics (GA) today announced the strategic acquisition of North Point Defense, Inc. (NPD), a leading provider of Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) exploitation software and sensor integration, by General Atomics Integrated Intelligence, Inc. (GA-III), formerly known as General Atomics Commonwealth Computer Research, Inc. This acquisition enhances GA's capabilities in the rapidly evolving SIGINT field, positioning the company to deliver advanced ISR solutions for air, sea, ground, and space platforms.From concept to deployment, NPD delivers AI/ML-based autonomous signal processing and data dissemination solutions providing real-time actionable intelligence, supporting tactical and national mission priorities. "Joining GA represents an incredible opportunity to enhance our impact in delivering cutting-edge SIGINT solutions in support of national and tactical users," said Bruce Benenati, President of NPD. "As part of a mission-focused organization with a proven track-record in tactical intelligence across the DoD and IC, we can accelerate innovation and deployment at scale. The integration gives our team access to unmatched operational expertise, resources, and a broader customer base. Together, we are poised to deliver even greater capabilities to those who depend on us in the field." GA-III is committed to providing a comprehensive suite of "out-of-the-box" hardware and software tools to meet mission requirements and expand the innovative intelligence capabilities within the GA group of companies. "The integration of NPD technologies into a division of GA-III is a strategic shift, enhancing GA's ability to innovate rapidly and provide greater value to customers with end-to-end ISR solutions that are more efficient, effective, and technologically advanced." said Brian Ralston, President of GA-III.Baird served as the exclusive financial adviser and Miles & Stockbridge acted as legal counsel to North Point Defense on the transaction.About General Atomics and General Atomics Integrated IntelligenceGeneral Atomics is a defense and diversified technologies company, founded in 1955 as a division of General Dynamics and acquired by the Blue family in 1986. GA and affiliates operate on five continents, and produce unmanned aircraft and airborne sensor systems, satellite surveillance, high power laser, hypervelocity projectile, and power conversion systems. GA is a leader in nuclear fusion research, next-generation nuclear fission and advanced materials technologies. The company occupies 8+ million square feet of engineering, laboratory and manufacturing facilities and comprises over 13,000 employees.GA-III's capabilities include spatio-temporal data management, advanced analytics, visualization tools, and computer vision, alongside AI/ML-enabled automated target recognition services. These capabilities support a wide range of national, tactical, and commercial/international applications, leveraging both commercial cloud and edge-based computing solutions and are fully integrated with GA Aeronautical Systems' unmanned aircraft and airborne sensor systems.Media Contact: https://www.ga.com/general-business-inquiries # # #Contact InformationGA-ASI Media Relationsasi-mediarelations@ ga-asi.com SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
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JetSMART Expands to the U.S., Bringing Affordable Travel Options to South AmericaLOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Have you ever dreamed of visiting one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu in Peru? Have you wondered what it's like to taste the best barbecue of your life in Lionel Messi's homeland, Argentina? Have you thought about disconnecting and finding inspiration in the breathtaking landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama in Chile? Or living the experience of a lifetime in the warm waters of Cartagena de Indias in Colombia?Here's how to do it the SMART way-paying an ultra low price that let you reach the most exciting destinations in on one of the largest airlines in South America, paying only for the baggage you need and at ultra-low fares.JetSMART Airlines, a U.S.-backed airline operating in South America, has enabled sales channels in the United States through travel agencies so that everyone can fly at ultra-low prices. JetSMART is the largest and fastest-growing ultra-low-cost airline in South America. Since its founding in 2016, JetSMART has revolutionized the airline industry, currently serving more than 80 domestic and international routes across eight countries in the region, including Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Ecuador."At JetSMART we are innovating, launching sales in the United States. Undoubtedly this is the cornerstone of our expansion project. Our Ultra-Low-Cost model is proven and has allowed us to carry more than 35 million passengers, flying SMART at ultra-low fares on new aircraft, actually, one of the youngest fleets in the world. We see enormous potential in connecting new passengers in the United States to destinations in Latin America to promote development, tourism and connectivity. We have been recognized as the best low cost in South America and number three in customer satisfaction in the region by SKYTRAX World Airline Awards. Our fleet of 44 factory-new Airbus aircraft is the largest ultra low cost fleet in the region", said Estuardo Ortiz, CEO of JetSMART.JetSMART's business model is based on radical low-cost efficiency, allowing millions of passengers to access air travel for the first time, significantly reducing prices in every market it enters. The airline has a strategic alliance with American Airlines, allowing passengers to earn and redeem miles in the AAdvantage program, expanding its route network and enhancing its value proposition, buying tickets in the US to travel a diverse offer of routes to fantastic South American destinations.Backed by world-class investors such as Indigo Partners and American Airlines, JetSMART is positioned as the leader in the low-cost market and plans to operate more than 100 aircraft by 2028, connecting communities and creating new opportunities for travelers eager to explore South America, and has been repeatedly recognized for its operational excellence, winning awards such as SKYTRAX's Best Low-Cost Airline in South America in 2021 and 2023.With JetSMART, booking tickets is simple and SMART. Visit www.jetsmart.com or check with your trusted travel agency.About JetSMARTJetSMART Airlines is the largest and fastest growing ultra-low cost (ULCC) airline in South America, committed to offering affordable fares and expanding air connectivity in the region. Since its founding in 2016, JetSMART has revolutionized the airline industry, currently serving more than 80 domestic and international routes in Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Ecuador. Its fleet of 44 Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, one of the youngest and most modern on the continent, supports its operational capacity and efficiency.JetSMART's business model is based on radical low-cost efficiency, which has enabled millions of passengers to access air transport for the first time, connecting secondary cities and significantly reducing prices in each market it enters. With the backing of world-class investors such as Indigo Partners and American Airlines, JetSMART is positioned as the leader in the low-cost market and plans to operate more than 100 aircraft by 2028, connecting communities and creating new opportunities for South American travelers.JetSMART has been repeatedly recognized for its operational excellence, winning awards such as the SKYTRAX for the best low-cost airline in South America in 2021 and 2023. In addition, its alliance with American Airlines and the accrual of miles in the AAdvantage program, expands its route network and strengthens the value proposition for passengers. For more information, visit www.JetSMART.com For more info, contact: Leslie Machado lmachado@ aviareps.us SOURCE: JetSMART
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New Technology Network Optimizes Advancements in All DomainsSAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / General Atomics is reshaping its software enterprise for the future, merging efforts from across business lines into a single technology grid delivering all-domain response and information dominance.The new Quadratix enterprise will bond GA's large software workforce and extensive suite of systems under a unified umbrella, merging solutions for:Autonomy, artificial intelligence and machine learningAirborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissanceLand-based advanced sensingSea-based threat detectionSpace-based missions and satellite operationsCyber exploitationUnified data fusion and visualizationThis new cross-functional collaboration is designed to promote interoperability across all GA product lines, providing streamlined options for customers hoping to capitalize on the breadth and depth of General Atomics' expertise.As one of the largest privately held defense companies in the world, General Atomics has been a disruptive force in aerospace and defense technology for decades, employing more than 1,000 software engineers, programmers and related experts. Our new Quadratix enterprise merges software efforts from across the company's various affiliate divisions, including Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI); Electromagnetic Systems Group (GA-EMS); Integrated Intelligence, Inc. (GA-III); and other General Atomics holdings.The move offers new options for both current and future GA customers. One example is the unmanned aircraft delivered by GA-ASI, with its industry-leading Predator series of UAS and future-forward autonomous jets, which will benefit from increased collaboration on autonomy, AI and ML produced by other GA divisions."We've transcended a one-for-one software build and arrived at an integrated suite of software solutions for our aircraft and our customers," said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. "We're moving out fast to meet our users' toughest challenges by grouping these solutions together under the Quadratix umbrella." GA's transformational technologies continue to revolutionize how global military forces address complex challenges and respond to evolving threats. From data processing, exploitation, and dissemination to data fusion and real-time situational awareness, our vertically integrated software teams work closely with our hardware engineers to build versatile, flexible systems that mesh seamlessly behind the scenes."Quadratix integrates across our full catalog of subordinate systems to command, control, collect, catalog, and communicate information and intelligence to customers," said Blue. "Built from our existing integrated network of proven systems and subsystems, Quadratix is GA's end-to-end solution for providing information dominance." For information about Quadratix, go to https://quadratix.ga.com About General AtomicsGeneral Atomics is a defense and diversified technologies company, founded in 1955 as a division of General Dynamics and acquired by the Blue family in 1986. GA and affiliated companies operate on five continents. GA and affiliates produce unmanned aircraft and airborne surveillance systems, satellite surveillance, electro-magnetic rail gun, high-power laser, hypervelocity projectile, and power conversion systems. GA is a leader in nuclear fusion research, next-generation nuclear fission and advanced materials technologies. The company occupies 8+ million square feet of engineering, laboratory and manufacturing facilities and comprises over 13,000 employees.# # #Contact InformationGA-ASI Media Relationsasi-mediarelations@ ga-asi.com SOURCE: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau does not rule out the participation of Canadian troops in the deployment of a foreign contingent in Ukraine within the guaranteed security.

At a press conference following the results of the summit on Ukraine in London on Sunday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that Canada has been exploring every possible way to assist Ukraine. He reiterated that, as he mentioned a few days ago, all options are on the table. Trudeau acknowledged that the Canadian military could play a role in contributing to the efforts. However, he clarified that discussions on how to maintain peace, which has yet to be achieved, would not be rushed. He assured that Canada would be ready to do whatever is necessary, but emphasized that these decisions would be made in the coming years by the Canadian people and their government.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized that Canada has been one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine from the very beginning, for over 10 years. He pointed out that, during this time, Canada has trained around 40,000 Ukrainian military personnel. Additionally, he mentioned that Canada has invested approximately $20 billion in support of Ukraine, including military, economic, and other forms of assistance.

Trudeau further assured that Canada would continue to support Ukraine "by all means possible" and for as long as necessary. He explained that Ukraine is not only defending its own territory but also the principles and values that form the foundation of all democratic nations. As Canada looks ahead to the future, he guaranteed that both the country and its citizens would remain committed to supporting Ukraine.
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- Addressing supply chain demands and showcasing product trends- The 11th HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show opens today, offering a five-day showcase of jewellery raw materials from 2 to 6 March- The 41st HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show runs from 4 to 8 March, showcasing new product trends including affordable luxury jewellery, men's and unisex jewellery, sustainable development and jewellery technology- Some 4,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions will offer products ranging from raw materials, finished jewellery pieces, designer brands and gold jewellery to mounting components, product packaging and identification instruments and technology- Over 30 events cover diverse subjects including AI tools for gem and pearl identification, sustainability and other hot topics, helping industry players to grasp emerging trendsHONG KONG, Mar 2, 2025 - (ACN Newswire) - The 11th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opens today at AsiaWorld-Expo and runs for five consecutive days, allowing buyers to source a wide range of diamonds, gemstones and pearls. Guest of Honour at the event's opening ceremony this afternoon was Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. The 41st Hong Kong International Jewellery Show runs from 4 to 8 March at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai.Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: The twin jewellery shows are highly favoured by global exhibitors. The shows have attracted some 4,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions this year, nearly 70% of them coming from outside Hong Kong. This showcases Hong Kong's appeal on the international stage and its status as a world-class convention and exhibition centre. The twin shows provide a one-stop jewellery sourcing platform for the global industry, featuring raw materials such as loose diamonds, coloured diamonds, gemstones and pearls and showcasing the finest finished jewellery pieces, high-end custom-made jewellery, designer brands, mounting components, product packaging and identification instruments and technology. The diverse array of product offerings is effective in attracting professional buyers from around the world." Winston Chow, Chairman, HKTDC Jewellery Advisory Committee, said: "This year's twin jewellery shows, themed 'Symphony of Sparkles', continue the successful 'two shows, two venues' format, offering a wide range of high-quality raw materials and jewellery pieces. They also present a series of jewellery parades, seminars and forums tailored for both buyers and exhibitors to facilitate new opportunities in an intensely competitive market." International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show showcases global treasuresThis year's Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show features 20 national, regional and industry pavilions. The popular Japan (Pearls) Pavilion will host nearly 100 exhibitors showcasing unrivalled pearl products, including high-quality Akoya pearls, that demonstrate the country's expertise in pearl cultivation and processing. Renowned for its sapphires, the Sri Lanka Pavilion features more than 30 exhibitors displaying unheated and unprocessed gemstones of exceptional quality.Three major product zones at the show present high-end diamonds, pearls, gemstones and jewellery raw materials from across the globe. The Hall of Fine Diamonds presents high-quality diamonds of different sizes, cuts and colours. The Treasures of Nature zone displays natural gemstones such as rubies, sapphires and jade, while the Treasures of Ocean zone showcases pearls from different countries and regions. Indian exhibitor Fine Star Jewellery & Diamond Pvt Ltd (Booth: AWE 5-D23) is displaying a GIA-certified yellow diamond of more than 30 carats. American exhibitor Emco Gem Inc. (Booth: AWE 7-H01) presents high-quality Colombian emeralds ranging from 9 to 15 carats. Hong Kong exhibitor HYT International HK Limited (Booth: AWE 9-A23) showcases a 1.5-carat heart-shaped pink diamond from Australia with a unique and exquisite colour. And Hong Kong exhibitor Ocean Flame Limited (Booth: AWE 1-A28) presents a precious conch pearl naturally formed in the Caribbean Sea, renowned for its distinctive flame-like patterns and highly sought after by collectors.International Jewellery Show spotlights latest trends in gold inlay jewelleryThe twin jewellery shows have kept a finger on the pulse on the market. As international gold prices climb to new highs, the gold jewellery industry is seizing the opportunity to explore new avenues, with gold inlay jewellery, innovative and fashionable designs, and styles that combine traditional craftsmanship with cultural elements injecting fresh vitality into the market. This year's International Jewellery Show introduces the Gold Jewellery zone, showcasing unique designs and exquisitely crafted gold jewellery. The show has also invited Winston Chow, Director and Deputy General Manager of Chow Sang Sang Holdings International Ltd, and Dato' Chiah Hock Yew, President of the Federation of Goldsmiths and Jewellers Association of Malaysia, to share their expertise on the development of the gold jewellery market in the Greater China region and Malaysia.Fashionable and affordable luxury jewellery is gaining momentum and is highlighted at the International Jewellery Show. Another blue ocean market worth exploring is men's jewellery, with nearly 200 exhibitors featuring related products at this year's show. An update on affordable luxury and men's jewellery will be presented at a seminar hosted by award-winning jewellery designer and Founder of AMEDEO by R.F.M.A.S., Amedeo Scognamiglio.Jewellery technology is also in focus at the show, with Hong Kong exhibitor Firstpower Machinery Limited (Booth: CEC 5F-C22) showcasing an aerobic ultra-fast 3D printer, designed to enhance casting efficiency with high-speed printing capabilities for mass customisation. Italian exhibitor Doma Automation Srl (Booth: CEC 5F-C19) is presenting equipment capable of producing 360' animations that can help the industry capture e-commerce opportunities.An increasing emphasis on sustainable development is being seen in the jewellery industry, with many exhibitors at the two shows obtaining certification from the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) and pledging to commit to sustainable operations. Some exhibitors at the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show have adopted eco-friendly cutting techniques to achieve zero emissions. And several exhibitors at the International Jewellery Show are using recycled metals to reduce raw material consumption and implementing environmentally beneficial technologies and processes, including the use of advance casting and polishing equipment to minimise waste and energy consumption. During the show, a seminar will be held to explore how ESG and ISO jewellery certifications can help the industry achieve sustainable development. The speakers include Edward Johnson, Corporate Responsibility Director at British company GEMFIELDS.30+ events dissect market dynamicsMore than 30 industry-related seminars, jewellery parades, networking cocktails and events will be held for participants of the two shows, spotlighting industry trends in identification techniques, jewellery technology, sustainable development and much more. Event highlights include:Read more: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/96579/
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GAMBRILLS, MD / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 /York Building Products and Chaney Enterprises are excited to announce a new partnership in Heritage Concrete, a Stewart and Chaney Company.Heritage Concrete is the premier producer and supplier of ready-mix concrete in the Delaware region, with an incredible network of four state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional quality, and a reputation for superior customer service. Chaney Enterprises will be contributing three additional Delaware operations, namely facilities in Seaford, Lincoln and soon Harbeson, to the Heritage business.This combination of assets will provide customers with an exceptional network and decades of experience in supplying ready-mix concrete. It will also provide great opportunities for the collective team members of the new Heritage Concrete. Michael Petrillo and his team will continue to lead Heritage Concrete into the future with his continued commitment and dedication to customer service and Heritage's continued growth."Chaney Enterprises could not be more excited about our partnership with Heritage Concrete, The Stewart Family, and to have Michael Petrillo leading the business. This opportunity brings a great service network to our collective customers and continues our long-term construction material growth strategy," said Francis Hall Chaney, III, CEO of Chaney Enterprises.Dave Stewart, CEO of The Stewart Companies, commented, "we are excited to add these Chaney operations into the Heritage Concrete family. This combination creates a strong platform for the future growth of Heritage Concrete." About Chaney EnterprisesFounded in 1962, Chaney Enterprises is Built on Passion and committed to delivering high-quality ready-mix concrete, aggregates, and building materials. With operations spanning the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern regions, the company supplies materials by land, sea, and rail. Headquartered in Gambrills, Maryland, Chaney Enterprises operates more than 110 ready-mix concrete plants and over a dozen sand and gravel facilities. Focused on innovation, sustainability, and local service, Chaney Enterprises lays the foundation for stronger communities every day. For more information, visitChaneyEnterprises.com ContactMadison Sloan240-444-6282 msloan@ chaneyenterprises.com SOURCE: Chaney Enterprises
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Kingfisher Metals Corp. (TSXV:KFR)(FSE:970)(OTCQB:KGFMF) ("Kingfisher" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Gruner as an independent, non-executive director of the Company, effective February 28, 2025.Mr. Paul Gruner is a seasoned leader in Indigenous business, bringing extensive experience in economic development across multiple regions. He has held key executive roles, including CEO of Det'on Cho Management LP, which supports the Yellowknives Dene First Nation in the Northwest Territories, and CEO of the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation, serving the Tahltan Nation. Currently, he leads as the CEO of Tcho Investment Corporation, driving economic growth for the Tcho First Nation.With a strong background in strategic leadership, Mr. Gruner has expertise in mergers and acquisitions, business development, strategic partnerships, financial management, project management, corporate governance, contract negotiations, and capacity building. His work has been instrumental in creating employment opportunities for Indigenous citizens and advancing environmental, social, and corporate governance initiatives.Beyond his executive roles, Mr. Gruner has contributed to numerous boards, including the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB) and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Under his leadership, the corporations he has guided have received multiple prestigious awards, including Canada's Most Admired Corporate Culture, Economic Leadership of the Year - NWT (Chamber of Mines), Indigenomics 10 to Watch List, Indigenous Business of the Year - NWT, BC YK (AIIC), and recognition among the Top 500 Business Leaders in BC (BIV BC500).In connection with Mr. Gruner's appointment, the Company also announces that David Loretto is stepping down as President and a director of the Company. Dustin Perry, CEO will assume the role of President. The board of directors of the Company now consists of Dusin Perry, Richard Trotman, Chris Beltgens, Giuseppe (Pino) Perone, and Paul Gruner.Dustin Perry, CEO and President, stated "I am very pleased to have Paul joining our board as he shares a similar level of energy and drive to deliver value for both shareholders and stakeholders. Paul brings Kingfisher a wealth of experience within the Golden Triangle, where he recently headed the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation. His local knowledge and contacts will help support Kingfisher going forward with our goal of building a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with our stakeholders. Mr. Perry also noted, "David and I co-founded Kingfisher in 2019. On behalf of the Company, I would like to sincerely thank him for his contributions, which helped get Kingfisher off the ground. I wish him the best of luck in his future endeavours." Paul Gruner, director, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I am honoured to join Kingfisher's board at such a pivotal and exciting time for the Company. With its exceptional portfolio of projects, Kingfisher is uniquely positioned in British Columbia's renowned Golden Triangle region. I look forward to leveraging my experience to support the Company's growth and success. Alongside the board and leadership team, I am committed to driving innovation, shaping business strategy, and maximizing value for shareholders." About Kingfisher Metals Corp.Kingfisher Metals Corp. ( https://kingfishermetals.com/) is a Canadian based exploration company focused on copper-gold exploration in the Golden Triangle, British Columbia. The Company has quickly consolidated one of the largest land positions in the region at the contiguous 849 km2 HWY 37 Project. Kingfisher also owns (100%) two district-scale orogenic gold projects in British Columbia that total 641 km2. The Company currently has 56,455,144 shares outstanding.For further information, please contact:Dustin Perry, P. Geo.CEO and DirectorPhone: +1 778 606 2507E-Mail: info@ kingfishermetals.com Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsMineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company's property. This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.SOURCE: Kingfisher Metals Corp.
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OSU President Jayathi Murthy engages with students, parents, and education counselors in Ho Chi Minh CityHO CHI MINH CITY, VIET NAM / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / As Vietnam strengthens its position in semiconductors, advanced technology, and AI development, Oregon State University (OSU) is expanding opportunities for Vietnamese students to access world-class education, research experience, and global industry connections.During her visit to Ho Chi Minh City, OSU President Jayathi Y. Murthy met with Vietnamese school students, parents, and education counselors, highlighting the university's globally recognized research, strong industry partnerships, and career-focused education that prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving tech sector."Vietnam's rapid growth in semiconductors, AI, and advanced technology is contributing to the future of global innovation, and Oregon State University is proud to support this transformation," said Murthy.NVIDIA, a world leader in accelerated computing, recently announced its first Vietnam research and development center, signaling its confidence in the country's AI future."These are exciting times for Vietnam and its vast pool of talented young people. At OSU, we provide students with access to cutting-edge research, industry collaboration, and career pathways that align with Vietnam's aspirations in high-tech manufacturing, digital transformation, and engineering," said Murthy.A top U.S. research university with strong ties to Vietnam's tech futureOSU is ranked among the top 1.4% of universities worldwide and is home to nearly 38,000 students, including over 80 students from Vietnam. The university is recognized for its excellence in engineering, computer science, AI, robotics, and sustainability research - areas that align with Vietnam's ambitions in semiconductor manufacturing, AI-driven automation, and technological innovation.Through its global research collaborations and deep industry connections, OSU serves as a preferred hiring partner for global technology leaders, including NVIDIA, Intel, Amazon, Google, and Tesla. These partnerships offer students hands-on experience, direct engagement with industry experts, and pathways to careers in high-demand fields."OSU is committed to expanding access to high-quality education for talented Vietnamese students. The university now offers four-year undergraduate scholarships for all residents of Vietnam accepted for admission, and for top-performing students (3.75 GPA+), OSU covers the additional cost for the prestigious undergraduate Honors College," said Bob Gilmour, Executive Director of INTO OSU - the on-campus education hub founded in 2008, to support and increase the number of international students at OSU. "We provide dedicated academic and career support to international students to help them achieve success and maximise the return on their investment." Advancing research and innovation in semiconductors, AI, and sustainabilityOSU is a leader in AI, semiconductors, and robotics research, housing the largest Computer Science program in the U.S. and ranking among the top institutions for engineering and high-performance computing. One of its most ambitious projects is the Jen-Hsun Huang and Lori Mills Huang Collaborative Innovation Complex, made possible by more than $100 million in philanthropic investments, including a $50 million gift from OSU alumni couple Jen-Hsun Huang, NVIDIA Founder and CEO, Lori Mills Huang. Set to open in 2026, the facility will house one of the most powerful supercomputers at a U.S. academic institution, advancing research in AI, sustainability, climate science, and beyond.The initiative is being driven by the OSU Foundation. "We are committed to engaging the university's dynamic international network of alumni and supporters to help strengthen OSU's ability to address global challenges," said Shawn L. Scoville, President & CEO of OSU Foundation. "Through our US$1.75 billion Believe It' fundraising and engagement campaign, we are investing in OSU's students, faculty and groundbreaking infrastructure that positions OSU as a global leader in AI, sustainability, and engineering." For more information about OSU's research and education opportunities, visit: www.oregonstate.edu For more on OSU Foundation's global impact, visit: www.fororegonstate.org Media contact:Davinder KumarVP, Corporate & Public RelationsINTO University Partnerships davinder.kumar@intoglobal.com SOURCE: Oregon State University
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New Board Appointments Signal Growth as AI Moves Beyond Data Science TeamsNEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / As AI adoption accelerates, companies are shifting their focus from technical innovation to real-world business applications. To support this transition,Pecan AIhas appointed tech veteran Trevor Healy as Executive Chairman and former P&G CIO Andy Walter as an advisory board member. Their leadership marks a growing industry movement toward AI solutions designed for business decision-makers rather than just data science teams.Healy, a technology entrepreneur and investor (formerly PayPal, Telefonica, Verisign), has a proven track record of scaling AI and tech-driven businesses. Walter, former CIO at Procter & Gamble, brings decades of expertise in enterprise analytics and IT strategy. Their appointments reflect the increasing demand for AI that integrates directly into business decision-making without requiring specialized technical expertise."AI adoption isn't just about having the right technology - it's about making AI work for business teams," said Trevor Healy. "Companies today have more data than ever, yet many still struggle to turn it into meaningful predictions. Pecan is changing that by making predictive analytics directly available to business teams, without requiring dedicated data scientists. That's why I'm excited to help scale this transformation." Walter, who led P&G's global analytics transformation, sees a major shift in how enterprises approach AI integration."Many organizations invest in AI but struggle to scale it beyond early-stage pilots," said Andy Walter. "Pecan is addressing this challenge by enabling business intelligence teams to apply predictive analytics where it matters - without getting stuck in complex modeling or technical bottlenecks." Expanding AI Access: Predictive Insights Without Data ScientistsAs companies push forward with AI adoption, 74% of organizations report difficulties scaling AI beyond proof-of-concept projects. One major barrier is reliance on specialized data science teams, which can slow down implementation and limit AI's impact across an organization.To bridge this gap, Pecan AI has focused on making predictive analytics more accessible to business intelligence (BI) teams. The company has developed apredictive modeling Co-Pilotthat allows BI analysts to generate predictive insights independently, helping businesses forecast outcomes such as customer churn, demand fluctuations, and lead conversion trends."Trevor and Andy's leadership will help us expand this vision and refine how predictive analytics fits into everyday business decision-making," said Dr. Zohar Bronfman, CEO & Co-Founder of Pecan AI. "The future of AI isn't just about building models - it's about making them work in real-world business scenarios." How Businesses Are Applying Predictive AnalyticsPecan AI's platform is already being used by companies looking to apply predictive analytics without hiring dedicated data science teams.Case Study: Little Spoon (DTC Food Delivery)The Challenge: The company needed a way to predict customer lifetime value (LTV) and reduce churn while operating with lean resources.The Solution: Using Pecan AI, BI analysts built predictive models independently, optimizing marketing spend and retention strategies.The Results: Improved customer engagement and marketing ROI, making AI-driven decision-making a core part of daily operations."Pecan's predictive capabilities helped us refine our customer strategies without requiring technical expertise," said Adam Smith, Director of Strategic Analytics at Little Spoon. "It made predictive analytics a natural part of our strategy, not an isolated tool." About Pecan AIPecan AI is the leader in Generative AI (GenAI), empowering businesses to harness the power of AI and machine learning without requiring extensive data science expertise. Co-founded by Dr. Zohar Bronfman and Noam Brezis, Pecan AI delivers actionable insights that drive smarter decisions and tangible results. With its intuitive platform, organizations can quickly integrate predictive modeling into their operations, solving critical business challenges in areas such as demand forecasting, customer retention, and inventory optimization.Pecan AI's mission is to democratize AI, making advanced analytics accessible to businesses of all sizes. By bridging the gap between technical complexity and business needs, Pecan AI enables companies to unlock growth opportunities, boost efficiency, and stay ahead in competitive markets.To learn more, visit www.pecan.ai and follow Pecan AI on LinkedIn.Media ContactOrganization: Pecan AIContact Person Name: Jade RandallWebsite: https://www.pecan.ai/ Email: info@ pecan.ai Address: Sapir Tower, Tuval 40 Floor 24City: Tel AvivState: Tel AvivCountry: IsraelSOURCE: Pecan AI
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Primary Hydrogen Corp. (TSXV:HDRO)(FRA:83W0)(OTCQB:HNATF) (the "Company" or "Primary"), a leading exploration company focused on identifying and developing natural hydrogen resources, is pleased to announce the commencement of the first phase (Phase 1) of its multiphase 2025 exploration program.Primary has engaged the leading service provider in hyperspectral imaging technology to conduct advanced satellite-based surveys across its portfolio of projects. The industry-leading technology allows for 5 metre spatial resolution with 23 unique bands which provides groundbreaking high-resolution and high-quality images. This initiative aims to assist in the identification of prospective hydrogen exploration targets, leveraging cutting-edge remote sensing capabilities to enhance the Company's resource discovery strategy.Strategic Hydrogen Exploration Through Hyperspectral ImagingThe initial phase of the program will involve collecting satellite-based hyperspectral imaging, calibrated over known hydrogen occurrences, to identify potential corresponding signatures across Primary's portfolio of hydrogen projects in Canada. The phased approach will progress as follows:Phase 1: Collection and analysis of satellite-based hyperspectral imaging.Phase 2: Field sampling and mapping of high-priority targets identified in Phase 1.Phase 3: Higher-resolution airborne or ground-based geophysical surveys to refine exploration targets later this year."This first step of the exploration program is an exciting milestone toward unlocking Canada's natural hydrogen potential," said Peter Lauder, VP of Exploration at Primary. "With cutting-edge hyperspectral imaging, we aim to de-risk exploration, maximize efficiency, and potentially accelerate the discovery of economic hydrogen deposits. This will allow us to focus on the most promising areas in subsequent exploration phases, advancing our goal of defining Canada's first economic natural hydrogen discovery." About Primary Hydrogen Corp.Primary Hydrogen is committed to pioneering the natural hydrogen sector, leveraging cutting-edge exploration techniques to identify and develop sustainable energy solutions. The Company has an extensive portfolio of properties covering over 210 square kilometres across Canada including the Blakelock and Hopkins projects in Ontario, the Mary's Harbour project in Labrador, the Point Rosie project in Newfoundland, and the Crooked Amphibolite, Coquihalla, and Cogburn projects in British Columbia. The Company also holds the Arthur Lake copper project in British Columbia.--FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:Ben AsuncionChief Executive OfficerPrimary Hydrogen Corp.Email: ben@ primaryh2.com Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATIONThis news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. The forward-looking statements herein are made as of the date of this news release only. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budgets", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "projects", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the anticipated effects of the Shares' quotation on the FSE and OTCQB.Although the Company believes, in light of the experience of their officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements and information reflect the current view of the Company. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information.Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this news release. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, but not limited to, the risk that the quotation of the Shares on the FSE and the OTCQB do not have the anticipated effects, inherent risks associated with the mining industry and the results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties, stock market volatility and capital market fluctuations, general market and industry conditions, as well as those risk factors discussed in the Company's most recently filed management's discussion and analysis filed under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca . Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.SOURCE: Primary Hydrogen Corp.
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NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 /WHY: New York, N.Y., March 3, 2025. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Edison International (NYSE:EIX) between February 25, 2021 and February 6, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important April 21, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action first filed by the Firm.SO WHAT: If you purchased Edison securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Edison class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=33590or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 21, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW:We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Edison's claim that Southern California Edison Company ("SCE") used its Public Safety Power Shutoffs ("PSPS") program to "proactively de-energize power lines to mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfires during extreme weather events", was false; (2) this resulted in heightened fire risk in California and heightened legal exposure to Edison; and (3) as a result, defendants' statements about Edison's business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the Edison class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=33590call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.---Contact Information:Laurence Rosen, Esq.Phillip Kim, Esq.The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.275 Madison Avenue, 40th FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: Rosen Law Firm PA
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Despite the U.S. WHO exit plan, healthcare providers must adapt to new regulations to ensure safe and continuous medical services.SEATTLE, WA / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / The U.S. government's decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) marks a turning point in healthcare policy. This shift raises questions about the future of healthcare software, interoperability standards, and telemedicine regulations. Adapting SaaS and Telemedicine Healthcare Digital Transformation EraWithout WHO-aligned frameworks guiding global compliance and data exchange,healthcare SaaSproviders and telemedicine platforms must adapt to new challenges and regulatory standards to maintain service continuity and innovation.Key Challenges and Risks for Healthcare SaaS and Telemedicine ProvidersAccording to news, as the U.S. plans to stop following WHO guidelines, healthcare providers will face new challenges in compliance, data management, and security.Adapting to Changing U.S. RegulationsHealthcare SaaS companies must keep up with evolving compliance standards, as federal and state policies may experience significant changes without WHO-aligned frameworks. To stay compliant, providers will need regular tech updates and adjustments to meet new rules.Managing Data Exchange Standards in HealthcareWithout WHO-aligned data-sharing standards, exchanging patient information between systems and across borders will likely become more complicated. SaaS healthcare providers and telemedicine platforms must ensure seamlessFHIR interoperabilitywhile meeting new data processing requirements.Ensuring HIPAA ComplianceAs regulations change, maintaining HIPAA compliance remains a priority for medical companies. Healthcare SaaS and telemedicine platforms must strengthen data security, encryption, and access controls to protect patient information in a changing legal environment.The Role of SaaS and Telemedicine in Future-Proofing U.S. HealthcareDespite regulatory uncertainties, SaaS providers and telemedicine platforms will remain critical in strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in the U.S. Technology like cloud-based solutions will be essential for ensuring scalability, compliance automation, and real-time data access.Advanceddigital healthcare solutionswith AI-driven analytics and EHR integrations will help providers handle regulatory changes efficiently while maintaining patient-centric care models. With an increased focus on domestic policy, U.S.-based healthcare vendors may also drive new telehealth interoperability standards to fill the void left by WHO-aligned frameworks.What To Expect Next: Expert InsightsAs the healthcare SaaS and telemedicine industries adjust to a WHO-free framework, industry leaders must collaborate to nail all the complexities the new shift brings to the industry."The U.S. healthcare is at a critical juncture, and its future depends on our ability to innovate, comply, and maintain the key purpose of interoperability - the protection of patient data," says Oleksandr Andrieiev, CEO of Jelvix. "We are ready to support healthcare providers with agile, scalable, and future-proof solutions to help them handle the upcoming challenges." Since providers will require assistance from an experiencedhealthcare technology partner , an expert team of developers, designers, and project managers from Jelvix is ready to support medical businesses. The company's expertise in cloud-based healthcare technology, AI-driven compliance tools, and interoperability solutions will help medical enterprises successfully manage the transition.Contact Jelvix:Tel.: +1 240 507 54 71email: hello@ jelvix.com LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/jelvix Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JelvixCompany YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/Jelvix Contact InformationOleksandr AndrieievCEOmarketing@ jelvix.com SOURCE: Jelvix
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 /Tectonic Metals Inc. (TECT:TSX-V)(TETOF:OTCQB)(T15B:FSE) (the "Company" or "Tectonic") today announced a significant newly drilled gold discovery at the 1.5 kilometre ("km") by 0.5 km Alpha Bowl target, extending the confirmed mineralized strike length of the Chicken Mountain gold system from 2 km to 3 km. To date, all 86 holes drilled at Chicken Mountain intersected gold mineralization (a 100% drill success rate) and all mineralization remains open along strike and at depth. The Chicken Mountain intrusion is one of six kilometre-scale potential gold deposits at Tectonic's Flat Gold Project ("Flat"). These latest assay results from the Company's 2024 drill program further validate Flat's potential to be Alaska's next tier-one gold asset.Strategically located just 40 kilometers north-east of the Donlin Gold Project ("Donlin") - a 39 million ounce gold deposit1 jointly owned by Barrick Gold Corporation (GOLD: NYSE; ABX: TSX) and NOVAGOLD Resources Inc. (NG: TSX; NG: NYSE) - Flat is the next most advanced gold asset in this established tier-one gold district. Notably, Donlin's owners recently announced a USD $43 million exploration budget for 20252, highlighting the continued investment and confidence in the advancement of this gold project and region.Figure 1.0: Alpha Bowl Discovery Drill Hole Assay Results - Collared and Ending in Strong Gold Mineralization, Including Grades Up To 21.72 G/T AuDrill Hole IDFrom (m)To (m)Length (m)Au (g/t)CMR24-026entire hole0.0065.5365.531.22Alpha Bowlincluding9.1427.4318.292.22With18.2924.386.106.01With22.8624.381.5221.72including32.0065.5333.531.11With38.1053.3415.241.98With47.2453.346.102.83hole ending with60.9665.534.571.13Assay results reported use the average grade derived from assaying up to five unique 500g sample splits using all available sample material. All widths are interval widths as insufficient data exists currently to determine true zone widths. Select composites utilizing 0.10, 0.30 or 0.50 g/t Au cut-off with maximum 3.1m continuous (two sample) below cut-off inclusion.Tony Reda, President & CEO of Tectonic Metals, commented:"Alpha Bowl is an exciting new drilled gold discovery and a game-changer for our Flat Gold Project. Tectonic's maiden drilling confirms gold mineralization in every hole, with assays reaching up to 67 g/t Au, underscoring the exceptional tenor of this system. The scale of Alpha Bowl is extraordinary - spanning 1.5 km by 0.5 km and extending the Chicken Mountain gold system's strike length to 3 km and open. What also excites us is that we have now confirmed the bedrock source responsible for the 650,000 ounces of historic placer gold shedding from this area - an extraordinary feat given that this drilling was our first attempt and conducted in a geologically blind environment at relatively shallow depths. If we can delineate such a compelling gold discovery with limited RC drilling, one can only imagine what a deeper, more systematic diamond drill campaign could unveil. We are merely scratching the surface of what could be the most transformative development in the history of the Flat Gold Project." Peter Kleespies, Vice President Exploration of Tectonic Metals, stated:"The 2024 exploration drill program results continue to demonstrate the scale of the Flat Gold system and potential for uncovering a significant gold resource at the property. The results from the Alpha Bowl drilling are especially encouraging, and evidence of a continuously mineralized intrusion-related gold system extending over 3 kilometres is beginning to emerge. Furthermore, the relationship between low magnetic susceptibility zones and intrusions identified by recent Tectonic 3-D inversion of magnetic data has been validated in areas of no bedrock exposure and presents an excellent exploration vectoring tool for blind to surface discoveries as we continue to explore the extent of mineralization at the six intrusion targets identified at the property. The time has clearly come to expand our efforts at Flat to fully realize the resource potential of the mineralization identified to date but also to continue to make new discoveries as we deepen our geological understanding of the overall Flat gold system." Tectonic Alpha Bowl Drilling Discovers Bedrock Gold Source Underlying 650,000 Oz of Historic Placer Gold Production3First-Ever Drilling of Alpha Bowl, Host to One of Alaska's Most Prolific Placer Creeks: In over 40 years of sporadic, limited hard rock exploration at the Flat Gold Project, Tectonic is the first company ever to drill the Alpha Bowl target, host to Flat Creek. With over 650,000 ounces of recorded historical placer gold production3, Flat Creek is the most prolific placer gold producing creek at the Flat Gold Project, heralded as the third richest placer mining jurisdiction in all of Alaska with over 1.4 million ounces of recorded placer gold production.High Tenor Gold Successfully Drilled in a Geologically "Blind" Target: all drill holes were collared in or near extensive historic placer and regolith mining areas-zones where gold has eroded from its original lode source and accumulated in weathered soil and rock layers. These areas have undergone significant surface disturbance, leaving little to no available surficial geological information. Despite these challenges, Tectonic successfully intersected gold mineralization in all five Alpha Bowl drill holes by targeting a largely "blind" anomaly. This achievement underscores the strong gold potential of Alpha Bowl and validates the effectiveness of Tectonic's exploration approach.Confirmed Bedrock Gold Source for Flat Creek Placers Located at Alpha Bowl: Tectonic 2024 drill results combined with other geological evidence compiled by Tectonic, confirm that the bedrock gold source for the prolific historic Flat Creek Placers is present and located within intrusive rocks beneath the historical workings in the Alpha Bowl.2024 Drilling Confirms High-Tenor, Nuggety Gold Linked to Flat Creek's Bedrock Source; see Figure 2.0 Drill Assay Table Below: 2024 Alpha Bowl drilling revealed instances of high gold tenor and coarse gold distribution, closely associated with increased quartz veining. The 2024 drill results are consistent with a 1992 Alaska Department of Natural Resources & United States Geological Survey report4 that described "gaudy gold-quartz veining" observed by historical placer miners in the upper stripping (i.e. surface lode mining) at Flat Creek which is vastly different than the finer, "oatmeal flake-sized"
The 17th Annual Global CSR & ESG Summit 2025 Concludes in Ho Chi Minh City, Setting New Standards in Sustainability

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HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM, Feb 27, 2025 - (ACN Newswire) - The 17th Annual Global CSR & ESG Summit 2025, themed "Scaling Impact and Redefining Value in Sustainability," came to a successful close yesterday at the Mai House Saigon Hotel. The event marked a significant milestone in the field of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, attracting over 200 experts, practitioners, NGO representatives, and media partners.Hosted by The Pinnacle Group International in collaboration with the Sustainable Technology Centre, this years summit assembled industry leaders, policymakers, and subject matter experts to explore innovative ESG strategies and solutions to creating value for organisations and the community at large. The event showcased insightful discussions, on pressing issues including climate action, transition finance, carbon emissions, diversity and inclusion, ethical governance, and community engagement.Industry Leaders Convene to Drive Sustainability and ESG InnovationThe summit brought together top industry leaders and experts to explore solutions for achieving net-zero goals and advancing ESG initiatives. Mr. Mai Lam Dong, Cluster President of Schneider Electric Vietnam & Cambodia, emphasized the urgent need for carbon reduction technologies to achieve a sustainable future. He highlighted the role of smart grids, AI-driven energy management, and automation in enhancing efficiency and reducing emissions. By integrating renewables, microgrids, and electrification, businesses can accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. With Vietnams net-zero commitments, he called for stronger collaboration between industry, policymakers, and technology providers to scale these solutions for lasting environmental and economic impact.Building on this, Huang Yi Chun, Regional Leader for Climate Action & Sustainability at Gensler, shared how digital design is reshaping the built environment. He discussed AI-driven simulations and parametric design, suggesting ideas for businesses to integrate sustainability into urban planning and architecture to meet evolving regulatory demands.Prof. Dr. Geoffrey Williams, a leading economist and government advisor moderated a panel consisting of leaders from Bridgestone Asia Pacific, PT Hengjaya Mineralindo, and PT TBS Energi Utama where they shared insights on embedding ESG into workforce development, responsible resource management, and financing sustainable growth.Highlighting technologys role in ESG transparency, Susanna Hasenoehrl, Head of Sustainability at SAP Asia, demonstrated how AI, big data, and blockchain are transforming sustainability reporting and corporate accountability in enabling faster and more accurate results.In another panel where strategic partnerships in sustainability were explored, Dr. Doseba Sinay of World Vision highlighted the transformative power of collaboration in addressing social and environmental challenges, emphasizing the need for multi-stakeholder engagement to create lasting impact. He shared how World Visions initiativesranging from reforestation and clean water access to livelihood programshave been strengthened through corporate and government partnerships. Speakers from HEINEKEN Vietnam, Sarawak Energy Berhad, and Evermos echoed this sentiment, discussing how businesses can integrate ESG principles into their operations through sustainable supply chains, circular economy models, and community-driven projects. The discussion reinforced that cross-sector collaboration is not just beneficial but essential for scaling meaningful and measurable sustainability outcomes.The summit concluded with an inspiring keynote by Prof. Dr. Richard David Hames, urging businesses to remain committed to CSR and ESG as key drivers of long-term value. The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions, with Guest of Honour Mr Vu Minh Ly, Vice Director of Resource and Environment Communication Centre, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and Dr Tran Quy, President of Vietnam Institute of Digital Economy Development.The Global CSR & ESG Summit 2025 concluded with a renewed commitment from industry leaders to scaling ESG initiatives and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices that drive both environmental impact and business value. Delegates engaged in insightful discussions on integrating sustainability into corporate strategies, leveraging technology for ESG transparency, and forging partnerships to create long-term economic and social benefits. The summit provided actionable strategies for businesses to align profitability with purpose, ensuring that sustainability remains at the core of corporate decision-making.On the second day, delegates explored the Mekong Delta, gaining firsthand insights into the intersection of sustainable tourism, local economic empowerment, and environmental preservation. The tour included a scenic cruise along the Mekong River, visits to traditional riverside villages and coconut processing workshops, and a sampan ride through the regions lush waterways. Delegates also experienced the cultural heritage of the Delta through local folk music, seasonal delicacies, and an authentic riverside meal, reinforcing the importance of preserving both ecological and cultural landscapes in sustainability efforts.Read more: https://www.acnnewswire.com/press-release/english/96486/
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President of the European Council Antonio Costa assures that the European Union is ready to work with partners on a peace plan for Ukraine.

Costa made the relevant comment after participating in the leaders' summit on Ukraine security, which was held on Sunday in London at the initiative of British Prime Minister Kim Starmer, the press service of the European Council reports.

"The European Union is ready to work with all our European partners and other allies on a peace plan to Ukraine that will ensure a just and lasting peace for the Ukrainian people. We must learn from the past. We cannot repeat the Minsk experience. We cannot repeat the Afghanistan tragedy. And for that, we need strong security guarantees. Peacemaking goes hand in hand with peacekeeping," the President of the European Council said.

He assured that the work on ensuring a lasting peace in Ukraine continues.

In addition, Costa noted that these consultations were "very useful and important." "I will continue to work with all the EU member states leaders to prepare our special European Council on next Thursday," the President of the European Council added.
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Join Medical Component Specialists at AAOS 2025 in San Diego from March 10-14. Stop by Booth 5529 to learn about our Quick Ship ProtoLab.BELLINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Medical Component Specialists is thrilled to be heading to San Diego for theAmerican Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2025 Annual Meeting , taking place from March 10th to 14th. As one of the largest gatherings in orthopedic medicine, this event provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge innovations, and gain valuable insights into the future of musculoskeletal healthcare. QuickShip ProtoLAB at AAOS 2025For more than 90 years, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has been dedicated to advancing orthopedic education and improving patient outcomes. AAOS 2025 continues this tradition by offering a robust lineup of expert-led presentations, hands-on workshops, and a dynamic Exhibit Hall featuring the latest surgical techniques and medical technologies. Attendees will have the chance to network with top professionals, engage in career development opportunities, and witness live demonstrations of groundbreaking procedures in the OrthoDome.This year at AAOS 2025, MCS is excited to showcase its latest innovation at Booth 5529:Quick Ship Protolab - a high-speed manufacturing service designed to support your R&D and proof-of-concept needs. With a rapid response team and dedicated engineering support, we collaborate closely to bring your designs to life in as little as one to three weeks. Protolab accelerates your proof of concept and time to market, streamlining design validation and regulatory submissions. Whether you need quick iterations or a functional prototype for testing, our team is ready to deliver precision and speed. Realize your next innovation with Protolab-because your next breakthrough shouldn't wait!Our Quick Ship ProtoLab service is supported by our in-house manufacturing capabilities. Each component is made in the USA, adheres to ISO 13485 implantable medical device manufacturing standards, and is made from materials that meet ASTM standards. In addition, components are FDA-registered with full lot traceability.Stop by Booth 5529 to discover how MCS can help bring orthopedic device concepts to life faster than ever before. If you haven't registered for AAOS 2025 yet, there's still time- secure your spot today . MCS looks forward to seeing you in San Diego!Contact InformationGrant NiewinskiDirector of Business Developmentgniewinski@ medicalcomponentspecialists.com 312-607-5589SOURCE: Medical Components Specialists, Inc.
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SUN PRAIRIE, WISCONSIN / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Uber, through its on-demand delivery-facilitation service Uber Direct, and iCare+, a leading provider of innovative healthcare solutions, are joining up to deliver a step change in medication access by offering fast, reliable, and convenient prescription deliveries to Independent Pharmacy Cooperative (IPC) members and expanding supplement benefits for patients. iCare+ Independent Pharmacy CooperativeThrough this partnership, IPC pharmacies utilizing iCare+ digital healthcare services will gain access to Uber Direct's seamless delivery technology and network within iCare+ signature pharmacist healthcare portal, allowing patients to receive their medications quickly and securely at their doorstep. This initiative supports independent pharmacies in supplementing their delivery programs with expanded same-day and on-demand delivery access, enhancing patient adherence, reducing medication delays, and improving overall healthcare outcomes."Our goal is to provide our over 2000+ independent pharmacies participating in iCare+ with innovative, future-ready tools to compete in an evolving healthcare landscape," said Ashton Maaraba, President, IPC Digital Health. "By integrating Uber Direct's trusted delivery network, we are empowering pharmacies to offer a level of extended convenience that was once only available through large chains." In addition to prescription delivery, the partnership will extend supplement benefits for patients through iCare+'s enhanced mobile wellness programs. Pharmacies can now offer a broader range of over-the-counter supplements and wellness products for delivery, ensuring patients receive the comprehensive care they need, when they need it."This partnership with iCare+ enables IPC pharmacy members to meet patients where they are, flexibility and convenience they deserve," said Kiran Vinta, General Manager, Uber Direct, US & Canada.Marc Essensa, CEO, IPC points out, 'IPC remains committed to its members by opening the door to partnerships like, Uber Direct members are now able to tap into additional medication delivery resources aimed at boosting patient compliance through the iCare+ pharmacist platform." With the rise in demand for delivery of home healthcare solutions, this collaboration between Uber and iCare+ aims to help independent pharmacies remain competitive, improve patient engagement, and streamline their services.About iCare+IPC Digital Health, LLC. powered by Independent Pharmacy CooperativeEstablished in 1983, IPC is the nation's largest group purchasing organization owned by independent pharmacy, with over 2,100 members and an additional 5000+ warehouse customers. IPC has locations in the Sun Prairie Business Park and Puerto Rico. IPC Digital Health, LLC. was formed in 2023 and powers the company's digital and virtual health care strategy under the iCare+ brand as a commitment to expand member value proposition, and to help IPC customers remain competitive across the Independent Pharmacy marketplace. For more information contact Yvonne Eberling, IPC Digital Health Marketing and Communications. www.myicareplus.com About Uber Direct Uber Direct provides first-party delivery-as-a-service that enables businesses to offer on-demand, local delivery to customers through their own sales channels. When merchants use Uber Direct, they can allow customers to place orders directly from their own app, website, or by phone and fulfill online deliveries through Uber's global courier network. Businesses around the world use Uber Direct as a way to tap into Uber's delivery network and offer fast and reliable delivery to their customers.Contact InformationTodd EuryCEOeury@ rxpr.net 412-585-4001
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"The Critical Minerals and ZEO Company"DALLAS, TX / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / United States Antimony Corporation ("USAC," or the "Company"), (NYSE:UAMY) announces today that management is participating in the Centurion One Capital 8thAnnual Growth Conference to be held at the award winning Four Seasons Hotel in the heart of Toronto's historic Yorkville neighborhood from Tuesday, March 4th to Thursday, March 6th, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario.On behalf of the Company, Gary C. Evans, Chairman and CEO, will deliver a corporate presentation on Thursday, March 6, 2025. Mr. Evans will also participate in a panel discussion and hold specific one-on-one investor institutional meetings throughout the conference dates.About USAC:United States Antimony Corporation and its subsidiaries in the U.S. and Mexico ("USAC," the "Company," "Our," "Us," or "We") sell processed antimony, zeolite, and precious metals products in the U.S. and Canada. The Company processes antimony ore primarily into antimony oxide, antimony metal, and antimony trisulfide. Our antimony oxide is used to form a flame-retardant system for plastics, rubber, fiberglass, textile goods, paints, coatings and paper, as a color fastener in paint, and as a phosphorescent agent in fluorescent light bulbs. Our antimony metal is used in bearings, storage batteries, and ordnance. Our antimony trisulfide is used as a primer in ammunition. In its operations in Idaho, the Company mines and processes zeolite, a group of industrial minerals used in soil amendment and fertilizer, water filtration, sewage treatment, nuclear waste and other environmental cleanup, odor control, gas separation, animal nutrition, and other miscellaneous applications. We recover certain amounts of precious metals, primarily gold and silver, at our plant in Montana from antimony concentrates.Forward-Looking Statements:Readers should note that, in addition to the historical information contained herein, this press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of, and intended to be covered by, the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based upon current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and their potential effects on the Company including matters related to the Company's operations, pending contracts and future revenues, financial performance and profitability, ability to execute on its increased production and installation schedules for planned capital expenditures, and the size of forecasted deposits. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and the assumptions upon which they are based are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations and assumptions will prove to have been correct. The reader is cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, as these statements are subject to numerous factors and uncertainties. In addition, other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are discussed in the Company's most recent filings, including Form 10-K and Form 10-Q with the Securities and Exchange Commission.Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "outlook," "estimate," "forecast," "project," "pro forma," and other similar words and expressions. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which change over time. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Because forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions and uncertainties, actual results or future events could differ, possibly materially, from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements and future results could differ materially from historical performance.Contact:United States Antimony Corp.PO Box 540308Dallas, TX 75354Jonathan Miller, Vice President - IRE-Mail: Jmiller@ usantimony.comPhone: 406-606-4117About Centurion One CapitalCenturion One Capital ("Centurion One") is the premier independent Investment Banking firm dedicated to fueling the growth and success of growth companies in North America. With an unwavering commitment to delivering comprehensive financial solutions and strategic guidance, Centurion One is a trusted strategic partner and catalyst to propel issuers to unlock their full potential.Our team comprises seasoned professionals who combine extensive financial expertise with deep knowledge of various sectors. We take a proactive and results-driven approach, working closely with our clients to develop tailored strategies and execute transactions that maximize value and drive long-term success.Centurion One - Empowering Growth. Driving Innovation. Partnering for Success.For more information about Centurion One, visitwww.centuriononecapital.com SOURCE: United States Antimony Corp.
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New Platform Delivers Health Data On Demand' with Modern Lakehouse Architecture for Real-Time Exchange, Scalable Data Management, and Advanced AnalyticsLAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Today, at the 2025 Health Information Management Systems Society Conference (HIMSS25), 1upHealth, a leader in health data interoperability, announced the latest release of its 1up Platform, which introduces a modern lakehouse architecture. Designed to scale with healthcare's growing data needs, the platform manages a wide variety of data types and sources, giving organizations better control over real-time access, management, and analytics to improve operational efficiency, care quality, and patient outcomes."With health data standards evolving-such as NCQA's upcoming shift to FHIR-based reporting-now is the time for healthcare organizations to take a strategic approach to interoperability," said Andrew Boyd, CEO of 1upHealth. "Our powerful, scalable platform helps organizations use their data to improve care quality and drive efficiency, while staying ahead of industry changes." This upgrade surpasses traditional FHIR servers and clinical data repositories, handling high-volume, high-velocity, and diverse data formats. With HITRUST Certification, the platform ensures secure interoperability as well as compliance with regulations like CMS-0057-F for Payer-to-Payer, Provider Access, Patient Access, and Prior Authorization APIs."1upHealth has been instrumental in guiding interoperability advancements," said John Budaj, VP of IT & Enterprise Technology Officer, Fallon Health. "We align with their forward-thinking compliance plus' approach and are excited to be among the first to upgrade to their new platform - ensuring CMS-0057 readiness while strengthening our technology foundation for risk and quality improvement." The enhanced 1up Platform empowers key healthcare stakeholders with real-time access to actionable data, transforming how they manage care, risk, and compliance. Specifically:Health Plans: Enhance quality measures, risk assessments, and reimbursement strategies with real-time clinical data and embedded analytic tools.Providers: Access critical patient data beyond EHR limitations, enabling AI-driven tools to function independently of the EHR.Digital Health & Life Sciences Companies: Streamline and deliver patient-mediated data through APIs, unlocking new app capabilities for payers and healthcare innovators.Patients/Members: Gain seamless access to their complete health data, empowering them to take ownership, make informed decisions, and actively manage their health.Beyond data exchange, the 1up Platform delivers key enhancements that simplify management, strengthen security, and expand connectivity, including:Intuitive User Experience: A streamlined 1up Console with self-service tools, real-time dashboards & reporting, simplified management, and secure IDP integration.Advanced Access Controls and Observability: Real-time access to patient data via APIs, with built-in traceability for security and compliance.Expansion of Payer and Provider Endpoints: Easier connection to 1upHealth's expansive healthcare data network, covering 270+ million patient lives and 7,500+ clinical endpoints.Since its founding in 2017, 1upHealth has been at the forefront of healthcare's digital transformation, recognized by Gartner as a Cool Vendor' in Healthcare Interoperability. The company has rapidly expanded its customer base to over 90 organizations and holds the most CMS FHIR API implementations in the market.To learn more about the new platform, visit our 1up Platform webpage.1upHealth will be exhibiting at HIMSS25 from March 3-6, 2025 in Las Vegas at booth #1863 in the Venetian. Media interested in meeting with company executives at HIMSS25 to discuss this launch and other news can contactegrich@ ariamarketing.com About 1upHealthDriven by a purpose of better healthcare for all through better data, 1upHealth is the national leader in health data interoperability and one of the fastest-growing health IT companies in the United States. Our modern data platform is built on a standards-based cloud architecture specifically designed for the healthcare industry, making it easy to acquire, manage, share, and compute data. From leading health plans and state Medicaid agencies to innovative digital health organizations and top-performing ACOs, over 90 health organizations rely on 1upHealth to seamlessly exchange data across the healthcare ecosystem to reduce risk, lower costs, and improve patient outcomes.Media ContactElizabeth Grich Aria Marketing for 1upHealth egrich@ ariamarketing.com SOURCE: 1upHealth
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CALGARY, AB / ACCESS Newswire / March 3, 2025 / Valeura Energy Inc. (TSX:VLE)(OTCQX:VLERF) ("Valeura" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the successful completion of an infill drilling campaign at the Manora field in Licence G1/48 (70% operated working interest), offshore Gulf of Thailand.Dr. Sean Guest, President and CEO commented:"Our most recent drilling at Manora has both increased oil production rates and successfully appraised additional targets which will form the basis of future infill development drilling. While the Manora field accounts for only about 10% of our year-to-date production, it is an excellent example of the potential for Gulf of Thailand fields to add many years of economic field life through targeted ongoing activity. In 2025 we intend to pursue a full year of drilling operations across our portfolio, aimed at continuing our proven track record of adding reserves year on year to support continued cash flow generation." Valeura drilled a five well programme, comprised of three production-oriented infill development wells and two appraisal wells. In aggregate, the Company's Manora field working interest share oil production before royalties has increased from 2,144 bbls/d (December 2024 average) to2,866bbls/d for the last14-dayperiod. Additionally, the appraisal objectives of the campaign have yielded between three and five potential future drilling targets, which will be further evaluated for inclusion in a future drilling programme.The A34 well was drilled for infill development targets within the deep 600-series sands in the field's eastern fault block. The well was successful and has been completed as a multi-zone comingled producer.The horizontal A38 well was also drilled into the eastern fault block, with the objective of developing the shallower 300-series sands. It was completed as a producer, with the well design incorporating an innovative downhole autonomous inflow control device ("ICD") to manage water vs oil production. The Company is monitoring the impact of this, and other ICDs deployed elsewhere on its fields, to optimise the application of this technology across the portfolio.The A36 well targeted sands across several known producing intervals in the field's main fault block and has been completed as a multi-zone infill development well. As is normal in many multi-zone wells, only the deepest targets are currently producing and the shallower zones will be brought on production later.The A35 well successfully appraised several zones of interest within the shallower 300-series sands. While this appraisal well will not be used a producer (and accordingly has been plugged and abandoned), the results encountered have indicated the potential for three further development wells within this reservoir section, which will now be further studied and modelled for inclusion in future development drilling.The horizontal A37 well was drilled as a combination appraisal and development well. The well encountered an encouraging appraisal target in the 500-series sands, which is now being matured for inclusion in a future drilling campaign. The well's development target, within the deeper 600-series sands was completed as a producer.Following completion of the Manora drilling campaign, the Company's contracted drilling rig has mobilised to Licence B5/27 (100% operated interest) where it is currently conducting a drilling programme on the Jasmine C wellhead platform.For further information, please contact:Valeura Energy Inc. (General Corporate Enquiries)+65 6373 6940 Sean Guest, President and CEOYacine Ben-Meriem, CFO Contact@ valeuraenergy.com Valeura Energy Inc. (Investor and Media Enquiries) +1 403 975 6752 / +44 7392 940495 Robin James Martin, Vice President, Communications and Investor Relations IR@ valeuraenergy.com Contact details for the Company's advisors, covering research analysts and joint brokers, including Auctus Advisors LLP, Canaccord Genuity Ltd (UK), Cormark Securities Inc., Research Capital Corporation, and Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited, are listed on the Company's website at www.valeuraenergy.com/investor-information/analysts/ About the CompanyValeura Energy Inc. is a Canadian public company engaged in the exploration, development and production of petroleum and natural gas in Thailand and in Turkiye. The Company is pursuing a growth-oriented strategy and intends to re-invest into its producing asset portfolio and to deploy resources toward further organic and inorganic growth in Southeast Asia. Valeura aspires toward value accretive growth for stakeholders while adhering to high standards of environmental, social and governance responsibility.Additional information relating to Valeura is also available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca Advisory and Caution Regarding Forward-Looking InformationCertain information included in this news release constitutes forward-looking information under applicable securities legislation. Such forward-looking information is for the purpose of explaining management's current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Forward-looking information typically contains statements with words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "project", "target" or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding an outlook.Forward-looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the potential for successfully appraised targets to form the basis of further infill development drilling, and the number of future drilling targets; the Company's intention to pursue a full year of drilling operations across its portfolio in 2025; and the Company's expectation to bring shallower zones on production later in the A36 well. In addition, statements related to "reserves" and "resources" are deemed to be forward-looking information as they involve the implied assessment, based on certain estimates and assumptions, that the resources can be discovered and profitably produced in the future.Although the Company believes the expectations and assumptions reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect.Forward-looking information is based on management's current expectations and assumptions regarding, among other things: political stability of the areas in which the Company is operating; continued safety of operations and ability to proceed in a timely manner; continued operations of and approvals forthcoming from governments and regulators in a manner consistent
In the prequel to this publication titled Agriculture as Nigerias New Forex Goldmine: Balancing Local Needs and Global Market Opportunities, I established the general belief of stakeholders in Nigerias non-oil export sector that exporting agricultural produce will not exacerbate Nigerias food crisis. However, for both to concurrently thrive, certain policy shifts must come to light, influenced by not only the government as actors but also all other players across Nigerias agricultural and economic sectors.

In this concluding part, referencing other countries, I reflect on the aforementioned challenges in Part 1 and offer answers that can serve as foundational blocks for Nigeria to balance food exportation to generate foreign exchange while not neglecting local consumption to ensure food sufficiency and security.

The Gambia has taken impressive and successful strides in modernising its agriculture, emphasising greenhouse agriculture, with 97% of its agricultural produce exported. Ghanas deliberate approach to exporting agrarian products comes to mind, enabling the country to dominate the African yams market in North America.

Looking at the concept of export production villages, developed by the UNs International Trade Centre, there is a live example of a Nigerian investor who established a large-scale pineapple export operation in Ghana. I believe Nigeria can learn from such examples and develop policies geared towards implementing export-oriented agricultural practices to boost agricultural exports. Nigeria has the potential to replicate these successes, but we must ensure that domestic food security is not neglected in our pursuit of export growth. As stated earlier, there is the danger of the boom-bust cycle in agriculture, where fluctuations in market demand can discourage farmers from continuing production. This volatility, driven by economic, environmental, and political factors, makes sustainability difficult to achieve, destabilising the agricultural sector.

Current Government Policies Outlook: Current government policies are seen as insufficient to effectively support the agricultural sector, and sometimes, there is a lack of clear policy pathways.

Inconsistent policies should be corrected and aligned with the broader goals of promoting agricultural exports for foreign exchange. This may include re-evaluating policies such as zero import duty on food imports, which, while it may provide a temporary solution to food scarcity, might undermine export goals in the long run. The government can play a multifaceted role in Nigerian agriculture and can help transform Nigerias agricultural sector into a major contributor to food security and economic growth.

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My suggested strategies and policies include:

 Prioritising Increased Domestic Agricultural Productivity: Policies should focus on increasing agricultural production to ensure food security and generate export surplus. This involves modernising farming practices, improving infrastructure, and supporting farmers. Farm mechanisation and providing a safe environment are essential steps that must be addressed immediately. We cannot continue with crude agricultural farming; modernisation is a must; otherwise, we will end up continuing to export raw agricultural products without value addition. This leads to a failure to capitalise on the significant benefits of entire value-chain exports and the resulting immense economic benefits in forex. Another real danger is that exporting agricultural commodities in their raw form is tantamount to exporting jobs!

The current trade deficit, where imports significantly outpace exports, highlights the urgency of this change.

 Developing and Investing in Value Chains:

Government should implement policies that encourage the development of value chains beyond just exporting raw agricultural products. This includes investing in agro-processing facilities, infrastructure, mechanisation, and educational initiatives to create jobs and increase the value of agricultural goods. Policies addressing the high costs and logistical challenges that currently hinder access to mechanisation for farmers will boost productivity. This would also ensure that Nigeria can capitalise on the economic benefits of full value chain exports and avoid dependence on imported processed goods, which invariably come at a higher price, thereby depleting our foreign reserves. One creative way of achieving this is for the government to develop incentives to attract serious businesses to invest heavily in farm equipment so that rental costs and easier access becomes a game-changer.

 Adhere to International Quality Standards:

Policies must emphasise the need for Nigerian agricultural products to meet international quality standards to enhance their export potential. This involves educational initiatives for farmers and exporters to improve their storage and preservation methods and ensure the exported goods are disease-resistant and arrive in premium condition. Through the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Industry, Trade and Investment, the government must seek collaboration with established organisations such as NICERT to develop a Traceability System that will help establish national standards that meet international market expectations.

 Diversify Export Markets: Government should implement policies supporting export market diversification beyond crude oil to improve Nigerias balance of trade and address foreign exchange issues. This calls for more efficient (including ease and transparency) incentive baskets to support local and export production.

 Implement Targeted Educational Programmes:

Policies should include targeted educational programs and initiatives to attract youth to farming and ensure the agricultural profession is more attractive and sustainable. A bottom-up approach based on the type of collaboration suggested above will do the magic.

 Embrace and Support Cluster Farming:

The government should promote cluster farming through policies that enable farmers to pool resources, share infrastructure, and access better storage facilities. This approach can help stabilise food prices and improve the agricultural sectors efficiency.

 Provide Government Support and Investment:

Policies should ensure that the government provides adequate support and investment in agriculture, focusing on small-scale farmers and agro-processing facilities. This support should include the necessary infrastructure, security, and resources to allow farmers to operate effectively.

Local Governments should also be empowered to drive agricultural development at the grassroots level. Investment in educational initiatives that show farmers how to preserve their produce and make them disease resistant, thereby increasing the quality and longevity needed to ensure the exported goods get to their desired destinations in their premium state. Rejection of our exported produce products is an ongoing issue Nigerian exporters face. Thankfully, the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, under the present leadership of Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, appears to have already set out along these lines, starting with the serious attention to reverse the rejection of Nigerias Sesame seeds by Japan.

At a recent engagement with officials of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the point was made that not many players know the policies, support programmes, and incentives the government has already provided. Deliberate efforts must be made to enhance awareness, else, these efforts will yield no results.

 Avoid Boom-Bust Cycles: Policies should ensure that domestic food security is not neglected in the pursuit of export growth and address market volatility. This requires creating mechanisms to provide stability and encourage continuous agricultural production. The government may need to consider setting up a system of purchasing (and storing agricultural commodities in bulk, always leading to the emergence of a guaranteed market for farm produce.

 Revive and Build on Past Initiatives: The government should revive past successful agricultural initiatives, such as the Green Revolution and Operation Feed the Nation, while advocating for a renewed focus on increasing agricultural production and exports. Additionally, and notably, the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA), developed by the former Agriculture Minister and current African Development Bank (AfDB) President Dr Akinwumi Adesina, is a way forward as a step in the right direction and a comprehensive strategy that can guide a renewed focus and drive a significant increase in agricultural products and its exports.

 Mindset Change: There is no doubt a need to adjust the nations mindset regarding how we view agriculture as a less than profession. We must move beyond the simplistic view of farming as a source of small business income and ensure that the agricultural profession is made more attractive and sustainable, especially with targeted educational programs and initiatives to encourage youth engagement in farming.

 Address Security Issues: Government needs to ensure the safety and security of farmers so that they have access to their farms without the need to pay security fees or risk being kidnapped. Security concerns among farmers are probably the most urgent issue that needs to be addressed if the agricultural sector is going to make headway toward feeding the nation and accessing global market opportunities for the much-needed forex.

Nigeria can balance food security with enhanced agricultural export growth by adopting a multifaceted approach that includes increased investment in agricultureal modernisation and mechanisation, addressing challenges faced by farmers, implementing strategic policies, and learning from the successes of other countries. This will require both a top-down approach from the government and a bottom-up approach from farmers and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

In the not-too-distant future, agriculture can become Nigerias new forex goldmine as we rev up internal food production, increase food security, and enhance domestic agricultural productivity. Nigeria can become Africas new food basket. It is not impossible!

Olufemi Boyede, CITP [email protected]

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Business leaders, trade experts, and government officials convened in Abuja on Thursday for a high-level networking workshop focused on strengthening trade ties between the United States and Africa.

Organised by the US-Africa Trade Commission, the event provided a platform for discussions on investment opportunities, market access, and regulatory hurdles affecting bilateral trade.

Held under the theme Enhancing U.S.-Africa Trade & Investment Through Strategic Partnerships, the workshop explored strategies for deepening economic engagement, with Nigeria positioned as a central player.

The event featured keynote speeches and presentations on trade policies, regulatory compliance, and export opportunities, particularly for Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking access to the US market.

Nigerias role

In his keynote address, Director of Economy, Trade & Investment at Nigerias Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Akinremi Bolaji, highlighted the countrys potential as a key trading partner for the US, particularly in light of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Our markets are open, our opportunities vastfrom tech to agriculture, he said, inviting American firms to increase their investments in Nigeria.

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While highlighting the countrys youthful population and natural resource wealth, he acknowledged barriers such as infrastructure deficits and regulatory inconsistencies.

Mr Bolaji also called for a shift from dependence on commodity exports, urging greater investment in value-added industries. Africa must move beyond exporting raw materials; we need investments in processing and manufacturing to create sustainable growth, he said.

Navigating US market regulations

The Executive Director and CEO of the US-Africa Trade Commission, Titus Olowokere, delivered a presentation on market entry strategies for Nigerian businesses looking to export to the U.S.

He highlighted the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) as a crucial framework for duty-free access to US markets but warned that regulatory compliance remained a key challenge.

Know the rules, meet the standards, and the U.S. is yours to conquer, he told attendees, stressing the importance of product certifications, intellectual property protections, and adherence to ethical business practices. He also pointed to digital trade and e-commerce as viable avenues for Nigerian entrepreneurs to tap into U.S. demand.

Mr Olowokere provided specific guidance on market research, financing options, and networking with US-based industry associations. Trading with the U.S. is not just about transactionsit is about building long-term partnerships that drive mutual prosperity, he added.

Service exports and the digital economy

The Vice President (International Trade) at the US-Africa Trade Commission, Brandon Smith, focused on the potential for Nigerias service sector in international trade.

He said the increasing global demand for IT services, creative industries, and business process outsourcing are areas where Nigeria has demonstrated significant growth.

The U.S. is hungry for Nigerias talentmarket it right, and youre in, Mr Smith said, encouraging Nigerian professionals to leverage online platforms and forge strategic partnerships with U.S. firms.

He also pointed out that while regulatory barriers exist, collaboration with U.S.-based entities could help businesses navigate certification requirements.

Barriers & way forward

Despite the optimistic outlook, informal discussions during the networking session revealed ongoing concerns about Nigerias business environment. Several attendees highlighted unreliable infrastructureparticularly electricity supplyas a major impediment to trade and investment.

Others raised policy unpredictability and currency volatility issues, which have historically deterred foreign investors.

The speakers emphasised the need for sustained engagement between US and African stakeholders to tackle trade barriers and maximise economic opportunities.

Mr Bolaji reiterated the importance of government-to-government cooperation, while Mr Olowokere urged entrepreneurs to take a proactive approach in understanding international trade regulations.

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The Oscars 2025 took an entirely different turn, filled with suspense, controversy, and analysis.

Coming topmost in all wins was Anora, bagging five categories it nominated: best picture, director, actress, editing, and original screenplay.

These wins have made Sean Baker the writer-director-editor to tie Walt Disneys record for the number of Oscars taken home in one night.

However, one film, Emilia Perez, a Spanish-language French musical crime comedy film written and directed by Jacques Audiard, stood out after bagging 13 nominations and winning in two categories: one for Zoe Saldana as the best supporting actress and another for the original song, marking a significant achievement in the film industry.

It is based on Audiards opera libretto of the same name, which he loosely adapted from a chapter of the 2018 novel Ecoute by French writer Boris Razon.

The film follows a unique storyline, where a notorious Mexican cartel leader is offered an unusual job to help a notorious cartel boss retire and transition into living as a woman, fulfilling a long-held desire.

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Criticisms

Released on 14 August, 2024 in France, Emilia Perez garnered both praise and criticism. While it earned accolades, it also faced backlash for its portrayal of Mexican culture and cartel violence, as well as its representation of the transgender community.

Zoe Saldana, who won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film, also apologised to Mexicans offended by the controversial musical Emilia Perez.

The film, about a cartel boss seeking to transition to a woman, has come under fire in the last few months after complaints that it was an inauthentic and stereotyped portrayal from a crew made up mostly of Europeans such as the French writer-director Jacques Audiard.

The films lead, Karla Sofia Gascon, also came under fire over her history of inflammatory tweets.

FULL LIST OF WINNERS

Best supporting actor

News: Kieran Culkin wins best supporting actor Oscar for A Real Pain

Yura Borisov, Anora

Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain  WINNER

Edward Norton, A Complete Unknown

Guy Pearce, The Brutalist

Jeremy Strong, The Apprentice

Best animated feature

Flow  WINNER

Inside Out 2

Memoir of a Snail

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

The Wild Robot

Best animated short

Beautiful Men

In the Shadow of the Cypress  WINNER

Magic Candies

Wander to Wonder

Yuck!

Best costume design

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Gladiator II

Nosferatu

Wicked  WINNER, Paul Tazewell

Best original screenplay

Anora  WINNER

The Brutalist

A Real Pain

September 5

The Substance

Best adapted screenplay

A Complete Unknown

Conclave  WINNER

Emilia Perez

Nickel Boys

Sing Sing

Best makeup and hairstyling

A Different Man

Emilia Perez

Nosferatu

The Substance  WINNER

Wicked

Best Editing

Anora  WINNER, Sean Baker

The Brutalist

Conclave

Emilia Perez

Wicked

Best supporting actress

Monica Barbaro, A Complete Unknown

Ariana Grande, Wicked

Felicity Jones, The Brutalist

Isabella Rossellini, Conclave

Zoe Saldana, Emilia Perez  WINNER

Best production design

The Brutalist

Conclave

Dune: Part Two

Nosferatu

Wicked  WINNER

Best original song

El Mal, Emilia Perez  WINNER

The Journey, The Six Triple Eight

Like a Bird, Sing Sing

Mi Camino, Emilia Perez

Never Too Late, Elton John: Never Too Late

Best documentary short

Death By Numbers

I Am Ready, Warden

Incident

Instruments of a Beating Heart

The Only Girl in the Orchestra  WINNER

Best documentary feature

Black Box Diaries

No Other Land  WINNER

Porcelain War

Soundtrack to a Coup dEtat

Sugarcane

Best sound

A Complete Unknown

Dune: Part Two  WINNER

Emilia Perez

Wicked

The Wild Robot

Best visual effects

Alien: Romulus

Better Man

Dune: Part Two  WINNER

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Wicked

Best live-action short

A Lien

Anuja

Im Not a Robot  WINNER

The Last Ranger

The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent

Best Cinematography

The Brutalist  WINNER

Dune: Part Two

Emilia Perez

Maria

Nosferatu

Best international feature

Im Still Here  WINNER (Brazil)

The Girl With the Needle

Emilia Perez

The Seed of a Sacred Fig

Flow

Best original score

Oscar for The Brutalist

The Brutalist  WINNER, Daniel Blumberg

Conclave

Emilia Perez

Wicked

The Wild Robot

Best actor

Adrien Brody, The Brutalist  WINNER

Timothee Chalamet, A Complete Unknown

Colman Domingo, Sing Sing

Ralph Fiennes, Conclave

Sebastian Stan, The Apprentice

Best director

Sean Baker, Anora  WINNER

Brady Corbet, The Brutalist

James Mangold, A Complete Unknown

Jacques Audiard, Emilia Perez

Coralie Fargeat, The Substance

Best Actress

Cynthia Erivo, Wicked

Karla Sofia Gascon, Emilia Perez

Mikey Madison, Anora  WINNER

Demi Moore, The Substance

Fernanda Torres, Im Still Here

Best picture

Anora  WINNER

The Brutalist

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Dune: Part Two

Emilia Perez

Im Still Here

Nickel Boys

The Substance

Wicked

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The EFCC will on Tuesday arraign Jude Okoye, the elder brother and manager of Peter Okoye (Alias Mr P) and Paul Okoye ( Alias Rudeboy), Jude Okoye, on fresh charges of $1,019,763.87 and 34,537.59 theft, before the Lagos State Special Offences Court in Ikeja.

The EFCC filed the four counts before Justice Rahman Oshodi.

PREMIUM TIMES reported how Jude was remanded in court and how Rudeboy alleged that his twin brother, Peter (Mr P), filed a petition with EFCC accusing Rudeboy and their elder brother Jude of financial mismanagement and was behind Judes ordeal.

Initially slated for Monday, the arraignment could not proceed as the Ikoyi Correctional Centre had not received any information for his arraignment at Ikeja.

In the charge marked Ref/99260/2025, the EFCC accused Jude of dishonestly converting $767,544.15 to his use, the alleged sum which was paid to Lex Records Limited as payment for music digital distribution/publishing royalties with intent to permanently deprive Peter Okoye of his special interest in the property.

He was also accused of having some time between 2016 and 2023, dishonestly converted the sum of 34,537.59, paid by Lex Records limited as payment for music digital distribution/ publishing royalties with intent to permanently deprive Peter Okoye of his special interest in the property.

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More allegations

The commission alleged that PSquares ex-manager dishonestly converted $133,566.49, which was paid by Kobalt Music digital distribution/publishing royalties, to permanently deprive Peter Okoye of his special interest in the property.

The anti-graft agency said the defendant dishonestly converted $118,652.23, paid by Mtech Limited, into payment for music digital distribution publishing royalties with the intent to permanently deprive Peter Okoye of his special interest.

According to EFCC, the offences committed contravened sections 278 and 285 of the criminal laws of Lagos State 2011.

Earlier, the Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday granted him N100m bail

Justice Alexander Owoeye granted him bail with two sureties in like sum.

Jude was arraigned on 26 February 2025 before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on an alleged crime of money laundering involving N1.38bn, $1m, and 34,537.59.

He was arraigned alongside his company, Northside Music Limited, on seven counts preferred against him by EFCC.

The Commission told the court that the defendant, alongside his Northside Music Limited sometime in 2022, in Lagos, directly acquired a landed property known as No 5, Tony Eromosele Street Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, worth N850,000,000. (Eight hundred and fifty million naira)the money he knew or reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of unlawful activities.

The anti-graft agency also alleged that Jude and his company, in 2022, used a Bureau De Change to convert $1,019,762.87, held in an Access Bank account operated by Northside Music Ltd, into naira and transferred the funds into various bank accounts to conceal the illicit origin of the money.

According to EFCC, the offences committed contravened Sections 18 (2)(a) and are punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act.

Jude pleaded not guilty to all the counts.

Bail application

However, Judes lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, informed the court of a pending bail application and requested a short hearing date. The court then adjourned until Friday to hear the bail application.

On Friday, when the matter came up, the prosecution and the defence counsel argued the bail application.

Mr Owoeye, after taking arguments from both lawyers, adjourned the matter till Monday for a ruling on the bail application.

When the matter was called on Monday for a ruling, the defendants counsel, Arome Mathew, announced his appearance and told the court it was for a ruling on the pending application.

He said,  We have argued the bail application dated February 25 and filed it on February 26, 2025.

Fanne Anum also announced his appearance for the prosecution.

Mr Owoeye, in his ruling, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N100m, with two sureties in a similar sum.

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Veteran Nollywood actors Norbert Young and his wife, Gloria, have opened up about their seven-year journey of childlessness, detailing how the experience impacted them individually and as a couple.

The couple, who tied the knot in April 2002, welcomed a daughter and ended their wait for parenthood. They have three daughters altogether.

In an interview on Love Notes with Tope, which started trending on Sunday, the couple reflected on the emotional weight of that period. While Gloria admitted it deeply affected her, Norbert maintained that he never saw it as challenging.

When asked about difficulties in their marriage, Norbert initially struggled to identify any, but Gloria quickly reminded him.

I was childless for seven years, Norbert, the 58-year-old actress interjected.

Norbert, however, insisted that he never viewed it as a problem.

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The Delta-born actor said, I didnt see it as a challenge, you see, because I kept telling her, What are you worried about? What is it? Be calming down. How can I see it as a challenge?

I had a sister who was married for 16 years without a child, and on the 17th year, she had a child. Her husband never told her to leave. That child today is a medical doctora big man, too. So whats the big deal? It didnt threaten our union at all.

Pressure

Despite her husbands confidence, Gloria admitted she felt immense pressure handling the childlessness.

He never did. But I was the one feeling it, and I was the one seeing things. And he was the one telling me, What is it? Stop worrying about such things, the former journalist recalled.

Norbert acknowledged her anxiety but reiterated that his outlook remained steady. She was anxious about itbeing childless for that long. As I said, it wasnt a challenge for me, but it was for her. As a couple, it was challenging, but I didnt see it that way, the 64-year-old actor explained.

Gloria then raised societal pressure and asked Norbert if anyone had ever questioned him about their lack of children.

His response was firm: Them born, you well come ask me that? Nobody in my family asked me.

Extended family

However, Gloria said she had a different experience. She recalled how, at family gatherings, she would often be subjected to silent but pointed stares from relatives.

Nobody in his family did. But I would go to my family gatherings, not asking per se, but imagine youre walking into the room, and one aunty looks at youmakes sure that you know shes looking at youthen her eyes go down to your stomach.

And as you walk away, her eyes are still there. What is she telling you? Like, How far, na? E don tey oh! E don pass one, two, three Without saying a word. Oh, I had those kinds of aunties, Gloria recalled.

When asked how theyve kept the spark alive in their marriage, they said, We have good communication. Were friends and lovers, and we share the same dreams and are close. We work individually and collectively, and that draws us closer together. In the process, we fight and make upknowing that its a ship of forever.

In a 2017 Punch interview, Norbert shared that he was deeply moved by the birth of his first child and had hoped for a daughter, as he believed a firstborn girl brings stability to the family.

Through 23 years of marriage, Norbert and Gloria have continued to thrive, proving that love only grows stronger with time. In April 2024, they shared a heartwarming moment at an event, singing and dancing together, showcasing their enduring affection even after two decades.

Norbert gained fame through TV series like Third Eye, Tinsel, and Family Circle. The University of Benin alumna starred in films such as King of Boys and RattleSnake: The Ahanna Story.

Gloria worked as a journalist with the Daily Times. Her breakthrough came with Glamour Girls (1994), and she has since featured in over 70 films, including Half of a Yellow Sun and RattleSnake.

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Photo: president.gov.ua

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that the allies will focus on ensuring that after the war, Ukraine has a strong army capable of defending itself against any future aggression, Reuters reports.

Scholz told reporters on Sunday after a meeting of European leaders in London that the starting point for potential peace talks on Ukraine could be a cessation of hostilities.

"It would be very helpful if the bombing were to stop...That would also be the starting point for talks that can then continue," Scholz told journalists after a meeting of European leaders in London.

He said that a focus for allies will be to ensure that Ukraine has a strong army when the war there is over so that it can defend itself against any future aggression.

"The basis of everything will be a strong army," Scholz said.
At least one person was killed and four more injured in a knife attack in the Israeli port city of Haifa, rescue services said on Monday.

The male perpetrator, who attacked people at a central bus station, was shot dead, the Magen David Adom rescue service said.

The attacker was an Israeli-Arab man, according to Israeli media, who quoted a police spokesman.

The deceased was a man of about 70 years old, the Magen David Adom rescue service reported.

One of the injured, a teenager, is in serious condition, it said.

Steffen Seibert, Germanys ambassador to Israel, condemned the attack in a post on X.

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Yet another horrible, cowardly terrorist attack, this time in Haifa, he wrote, offering his condolences to the murdered mans family and hopes that the victims can fully recover.

People on both sides must stand against such indefensible crimes.

(dpa/NAN)

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Terrorists believed to be members of Mallam Sadiku-led Boko Haram faction have killed 11 people in a midnight attack at a gold mining site in Karaga, a village near the groups Alawa forest reserve hideouts in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

The attack happened on 27 February, according to local and security sources. Those killed were artisanal miners from the garrison town of Bassa and its hamlets.

Before it became a garrison town, Bassa had suffered violent attacks by Boko Haram terrorists who displaced residents several times.

The displaced residents returned home in the second quarter of 2024 after soldiers were stationed in the town.

But since October, when the terrorists suffered heavy losses in a failed attack on Bassa, they continued to target the town using guerrilla tactics such as planting IEDs and attacking nearby villages where there was no military presence.

In the October gunfight, five members of the Sadiku-led Boko Haram faction were killed, including Baba Adamu, an IED expert, some ex-members who recently defected from the group told PREMIUM TIMES.

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Local and security sources who spoke to this newspaper suspected that the 27 February midnight attack was a retaliation for the terrorists loss during the October gunfight.

Barely two months after the gunfight, the terrorists resorted to IED attacks. In December alone, they planted at least four explosives that killed three people and injured four others.

The midnight attack

The terrorists attacked the mining site when the workers, including minors and women, were sleeping.

They killed everyone at sight except the women and minors aged between 10 and 12, said a local vigilante at Bassa.

The vigilante, who pleaded anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the press, explained some hunters were also trapped in the incident.

Those hunters have been sleeping at the sites after returning from the bush, the local vigilante said, adding that two of them were killed in the attack.

Another source, a resident of Bassa, Ibrahim Tanko, told this newspaper that 11 people were killed in the attack and two other persons were hospitalised at General Hospital, Minna.

The funeral prayers were done at the mining site, Mr Tanko said, adding seven of the deceased people were buried near the mine, while the remaining bodies were buried in Bassa town.

Previous attacks on mining sites in Niger State

There have been more than five attacks on mining sites in Niger State since 2022, but many of these attacks were not reported in the media, according to locals.

In June 2022, terrorists killed about 30 soldiers in a gunfight following an attack on a mining site in Ajata-Aboki, Shiroro LGA, where more than 10 people, including police officers were killed and four Chinese expatriates kidnapped.

On 21 August 2024, 13 artisanal miners were killed at a mining site in Unguwar Magiro, Rafi LGA, where lead poisoning affected about 2,500 children and killed at least 30 in 2015.

Eight of those killed were displaced farmers who took to artisanal mining because they could not risk returning to their farms vulnerable to terror invasions.

Situations like this have forced the Niger State Government to ban what it described as illegal mining. Despite the ban, mining activities continued even in terror-ravaged villages like Kurebe.

Boko Haram in Niger State

In 2020, Boko Haram under Mallam Sadiku began its campaign of terror in Niger villages after it moved from Rijana forest in Chikun LGA of Kaduna State.

The group, which hoisted its flag in Kaure village, now operates four camps in the fringes of Alawa forest.

The group intensified violent attacks against harmless civilians following the withdrawal of soldiers from Alawa town. Although the state government said the withdrawal was in line with administrative arrangement for reinforcement c the terrorists, one year after, the town is still under the grip of the terrorists as displaced residents continued to suffer an excruciating humanitarian crisis.

While the group continues to recruit locals, the Niger State Government is yet to figure out how to tackle the menace. The state government seems to rely solely on military might to fight the group.

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A popular self-acclaimed prophet, Ebuka Obi, has been enmeshed in a fake miracle scandal.

Mr Obi is the founder of Zion Prayer Movement Outreach, a Christian ministry headquartered in Lagos State.

How it began

During his Night of Open Heaven, a daily online prayer programme, Mr Obi prophesied that a certain lady called Loveth would soon receive Gods favour and celebrate.

The prophet claimed God revealed to him he (God) had remembered Loveth.

The prophecy will be played on the day of her testimony, he assured.

A video clip which showed the prophet making the remarks has been circulating on Facebook.

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In February, a woman who identified herself as Loveth Aluu visited the ministry and claimed that Mr Obis prophecy had manifested in her life.

Ms Aluu, in the testimony in a video clip, claimed that she witnessed a breakthrough after Mr Obi, whom she calls daddy, prophesied about her.

She said her business was on the verge of collapse, but after the prophecy, it boomed, which resulted in her buying a mansion worth N500 million in the Lekki Area of Lagos State.

After daddy prophesied to me, things started happening. Money started dropping. I would just stay, and people would be ordering my goods, she said.

Zion is the best. This is the last bus stop. I have my evidence here.

Where is the evidence? Mr Obi asked her.

Ms Aluu then submitted a video clip of the mansion, which she claimed she bought with proceeds of her booming business due to the prophecy.

Mr Obi began jubilating while members of the congregation danced and clapped in celebration.

Here! Here!! Hee!!! This is a mansion built by a young lady, he exclaimed.

The prophet then prayed fervently and asked the congregants to claim the miracle so that they could experience similar favour from God.

The fake miracle

However, last week, Ms Aluu was seen selling bottled water and soft drinks in a small shop in Enugu State.

In a video clip circulating on Facebook, the lady acknowledged that she had falsely testified at the Zion ministry that she had purchased a mansion worth N500 million.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that Ms Aluu was later arrested by Robo Consult, a construction and real estate firm that owns the mansion the lady had claimed she bought.

In a video clip posted on Facebook by Robo Consults on Sunday, some firm officials described the womans testimony as entirely false, fraudulent and misleading.

The lady in question is currently in the police net, and we are trusting that the whole truth will be unravelled, the company said in a post accompanying the clip.

C. C. Ugadu, a member of the companys legal team, said in the clip that, contrary to the womans claim, the mansion was located at WTC Estate in Enugu.

Mr Ugadu, a lawyer, said the property was built by the company and was yet to be sold to anyone as of Sunday.

He said that apart from the woman, all the people involved in the scheme to mislead Nigerians would soon be prosecuted.

A female staffer of the company explained that Ms Aluu actually visited the mansion on the pretext that she had a client who desired to buy the property.

While touring the building, she went around with a prospective client, according to what she told us. After a few minutes, she requested to talk to the client in private.

So we allowed her to talk to the client in the building for a few seconds. Unknown to us, she made a video of herself inside the building, claiming she had already paid for the building, the staffer narrated.

During an interrogation, Ms Aluu was heard admitting that she falsely made the testimony at the ministry.

I did not build it (the mansion). We were processing to buy it. I dont own the mansion, she said.

Ebuka Obi speaks

During his Night of Open Heaven on Saturday, Mr Obi argued that the false testimony by Ms Aluu was not his making.

The prophet, accused of performing fake miracles, vowed that the ministry would track down the woman.

Do I know her? Does any member know her? She came to testify the way hundreds of people come to testimony every day.

So, if indeed the house she said she bought is fake, then she lied before God and his altar, not the ministry, he stated.

He claimed that an unnamed priest based in the South-east contracted some bloggers to circulate the allegation of fake miracles to blackmail the ministry.

Mr Obi argued that prophets do not always receive revelations, explaining why he failed to spot the woman as fake.

No prophet sees all the time. No prophet hears (from God) all the time. Even Elijah and Elisha, Caleb. The Spirit of God comes (at times), he argued.

Mr Obi said during a Sunday service that his legal team had submitted a petition to the police regarding the matter.

We want to know who sent her. We want to know who her sponsor is. We will follow the case to any length, he vowed.

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended Kabir Sani-Giant, special adviser to Governor Nasir Idris on Power and Politics, with immediate effect.

A statement signed by the partys Kebbi State Secretary, Saidu Muhammad-Kimba, announced the suspension in Birnin Kebbi on Sunday.

He announced that on 8 February, Mr Sani-Giant brought a snake to the Government House, intimidating dignitaries, statesmen, and officials.

Mr Muhammad-Kimba said that the conduct could embarrass and discredit APC.

He added that Mr Sani-Giants actions violated APCs constitution.

ALSO READ: APC wins Kebbi federal constituency election

According to him, the party deemed his behaviour offensive and embarrassing.

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His suspension remains in place pending further investigation and possible disciplinary action, which could lead to expulsion if repeated, Mr Muhammad-Kimba said.

(NAN)

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Britains King Charles III met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at his Sandringham retreat on Sunday.

Mr Charles welcomed Mr Zelensky to the estate in eastern England for just under an hour on Sunday, immediately after the latters attendance at the defence summit on Ukraine in London.

A military helicopter carrying Mr Zelensky could be seen flying low and descending over the estate at around 5:25 p.m. (1725 GMT).

Local people, some holding Ukraine flags, gathered outside the estate to try and catch a glimpse of the arrival.

A motorcade then took the president through the grounds of the estate to Sandringham House, where Mr Charles greeted him at the doorstep.

They embraced and shook hands before chatting briefly and posing for photos.

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The monarch then warmly received Mr Zelensky in the houses Saloon room, with tea being served.

A helicopter departed the estate at around 6:35 p.m.

The pair previously met during Mr Zelenskys surprise visit to the UK in February 2023 in a historic audience at Buckingham Palace.

They also shook hands and had a private summit at the European Political Community summit in Oxfordshire in July 2024.

Their latest meeting came after Mr Zelenskys unprecedented public clash with US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the White Houses Oval Office on Friday.

A day prior, Mr Charles invited Mr Trump to the UK for an unprecedented second state visit.

(PA Media/dpa/NAN)

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The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed concern over the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation against the Senate President Godswill Akpabio made by Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing the Kogi Central District.

In a statement on Sunday, ACFs spokesperson, Muhammad-Baba, called for an independent, open, transparent and thorough investigation of the allegations.

Allegations

In an interview with Arise Television on Friday, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan said Mr Akpabio made inappropriate advances towards her during a visit to his residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on 8 December 2023.

She claimed that the senate president took her by the hand, led her around his house, and made sexual advances towards her in the presence of her husband.

She further alleged that Mr Akpabio had, on a separate occasion, insinuated that she should take care of him if she wanted her motions to receive favourable consideration on the Senate floor.

ACF concern

The ACFs statement noted that even Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghans husband has been forced to publicly comment on the matter and all such public interventions have the potential to bring into disrepute a body empowered to make laws for Nigeria.

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As things now stand, in the eyes of the general public the allegations in question portend definite negative implications for the national and international public image of the Red Chamber of Nigerias National Assembly. While the imbroglio lasts, the interests of the people of Kogi Central are not being adequately represented in the 10th Senate.

While perhaps far-fetched, ACF rues the development and hopes that it is not part of the thinly-veiled anti-Arewa agenda now pervading the Nigerian political process. It does seem that to date, only Senators from the North have been subjected to heavy sanctions, such as suspensions, in the 10th Senate.

In the event, ACF wonders if the unfolding events constitute a pattern or are cruel coincidences at work! Putting it mildly, the public image of the leadership of the 10th Senate is now less than inspiring. ACF therefore:(i) joins concerned Nigerians in wishing that the saga be brought to an end soonest.

An independent, open, transparent and thorough investigation, devoid of fear, favour or interference of any kind, from any quarters be conducted. This will be necessary to allow Senate to return, as it should, to the serious and solemn duty of law making for Nigeria, at a period when citizens are being overwhelmed by dire existential living conditions on account of the impact public policies on lives and livelihoods;

(ii) calls on the Northern Caucus in the 10th Senate to rally round Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan so that she gets a fair hearing and, ultimately, accorded treatment with all the deserved due respects that she is entitled to in the affairs of the Red Chamber; and

(iii) calls on the leadership and membership of the National Assembly to always display exemplary behaviour, edifying comportment, display sensitivity, circumspection personal discipline and be above board in matters of ethics, decorum, moral rectitude and integrity, qualities that are sorely needed but which, very sadly, appear to be in deficit in the way the 10th Senate is being run, the ACF stated.

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President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Enoch Adeboye, a pastor and the general overseer (GO) of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), on his 83rd birthday.

The president shared in the joy of this special occasion with Mr Adeboyes family, particularly his wife, Foluke, spiritual leaders and members of the RCCG, the body of Christ, and the clergy.

President Tinubu acknowledged the unique leadership role of the renowned clergyman whose teachings for more than five decades continue to shape and change lives across generations in the country and beyond.

The president extolled Mr Adeboyes humility and wisdom and commends his contributions, even beyond the pulpit, to healthcare and education in Nigeria.

President Tinubu prayed that God Almighty will continue to keep his servant, Daddy G.O., in good health and strength as he carries on his stewardship in the Lords vineyard.

Bayo Onanuga

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Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

March 3, 2025

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A former Development Editor at PREMIUM TIMES, Mojeed Alabi, has been appointed as the team lead and editor-in-chief of DevReporting, a new online newspaper focused on development journalism.

The platform, established by Development Reporting Services Limited, aims to redefine the coverage of development issues in Nigeria and across Africa, with a strong emphasis on impact-driven journalism.

In a statement signed by the organisations Administration and Finance Control Manager, Omobayo Azeez, DevReporting stated that it seeks to promote informed discourse, balanced reporting, and comprehensive impact on development issues.

The statement also confirmed the appointment of Christiana Alabi-Akande, a former correspondent at Daily Trust Newspaper, as the platforms managing editor.

As a niche platform, the newspaper intends to disrupt the status quo with a unique style of covering development issues in Nigeria and beyond through four major projects of DevCinema, DevCheck, DevCast, and DevStats, the statement read.

Although details of these initiatives are yet to be fully disclosed, the statement assured that the projects would offer rich exclusives, analysis, and investigations on happenings within the development sectors, especially education, health, and humanitarian issues and how they affect the people.

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It noted that the details of these initiatives will be made public in the coming days.

Why DevReporting?

The newspaper said as changes and the needs of the people evolve, journalisms response must also evolve, noting that the issues that deserve much emphasis in the media should be based on the different eras.

The statement further noted: The truth is that when the fight against the colonialists was in vogue, the media did well; when the military incursions dominated the post-colonial era, journalism also played its part.

But now that democracy seems to have been enthroned and the new challenges are the issues of poor leadership, corruption, and stark underdevelopment, journalism needs to refocus by significantly highlighting these issues in connection with the peoples survival. That is the vacuum DevReporting has come to fill.

Leadership and experience

According to the statement, as the pioneer Development Editor at PREMIUM TIMES, Mr Alabi has a track record of driving innovative approaches to development reporting.

The statement described him as the right person to lead DevReporting, given his experience in advancing development journalism and fostering partnerships in the sector.

It said having reported the education sector for more than a decade, and serving as the chairman of the Education Writers Association of Nigeria (EWAN) with a rich network of contacts, Mr Alabi is primed to lead a team of change agents in development reporting on the continent of Africa.

A 2005 graduate of English from Obafemi Awolowo University, Mr Alabi also holds a masters certificate in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos. His work has earned him multiple accolades, including two-time recognition at the prestigious Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting.

Similarly, the newspapers pioneer Managing Editor, Mrs Alabi-Akande, brings a wealth of experience in covering education, health, technology, gender, and governance.

Having worked at Daily Trust Newspaper between 2010 and 2022, she also served as a correspondent covering the Kaduna State House of Assembly and later the Lagos State House of Assembly.

A recipient of numerous awards, including the Courage in Journalism and the 2016 Journalist of the Year awards by the Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF), Mrs Alabi-Akande is known for her commitment to impactful storytelling.

With a background in Mass Communication from the Federal Polytechnic, Kaduna, she also brings strong digital marketing skills and fluency in English, Hausa, and Yoruba, making her a versatile media professional.

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Sunday paid condolence visits to the family of late Afenifere leader Ayo Adebanjo.

During his visit, Mr Jonathan explained why his administration did not implement the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference.

He said that the political situation in Nigeria at the time was too turbulent to accommodate the presentation of the recommendations.

Mr Adebanjo died on 14 February in Lagos.

He was aged 96.

Messrs Jonathan and Abubakar were received at different times by the children of the late elder statesman led by Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo.

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Members of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, led by Oladipo Olaitan, were also present during the visits.

Mr Jonathan, accompanied by Sierra Leones ex-President Ernest Koroma, former PDP Deputy National Chairman, Olabode George, and other political stalwarts, arrived at Mr Adebanjos Lekki residence at 1.57 p.m.

At a meeting with the children of the deceased and members of Afenifere, Mr Jonathan described Mr Adebanjo as a Nigerian leader, not just an Afenifere leader.

He said: Our dear leader was not the leader of Afenifere alone. He was a leader of this country.

He was a man with enormous wisdom, courage and willingness to do the right thing for this country.

He believed in truth and justice. No nation can grow when there is no truth and when there is no justice.

Those were the things he was known for. We are not surprised that he led the Afenifere credibly well.

Mr Jonathan said that the 2014 National Conference would not have come up without the contributions of people such as the late Mr Adebanjo.

He meant the best for this country, he added.

According to the former president, when a nation is not moving as expected, a comprehensive dialogue is needed.

He said that those who participated in the conference were credible.

I gave them total authority to discuss what is good for this country, he said.

He said that several people had kept asking why he did not implement the recommendations of the conference.

According to him, most Nigerians do not know that there was a lot of political turbulence in the country at that period.

He said a key member of the legislature, who was in his party, mobilised against him and moved to another party.

Mr Jonathan added that some persons were ready to bring his administration down at that time.

It was not the time we could present such a document.

Thank God for everything. We believe that one day, one government will review it and take everything, he said.

He said that the recommendations came from credible Nigerians who were not politically influenced.

We believe the outcomes are still very relevant for our society.

Responding, Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo said, Baba was very grateful to you (Jonathan) for your courage to constitute the 2014 National Conference and for him being part of it.

He always celebrated you (Jonathan) for being the one that had the courage and wisdom to put that together.

He was also very happy when you said the blood of a single Nigerian was not worth your ambition.

All those things resonated with Baba. I want to welcome you for coming to condole with us, he said.

Mr Ayo-Adebanjo also commiserated with Mr Jonathan over the death of Edwin Clark, a prominent Ijaw leader.

Mr Clark died three days after Mr Adebanjos death.

Also speaking, Oladipo Olaitan, the acting leader of Afenifere, applauded Mr Jonathan for simplicity and humility.

You (Jonathan) are a special specie. You are uncommon, he said.

Adebanjo, a great leader  Atiku

Speaking, Atiku also described Mr Adebanjo as a great leader.

He said that Mr Adebanjos death was a huge loss to his immediate family and those who admired him.

It is quite true that this house has hosted me a couple of times. I took away from this house, virtues that Pa Adebanjo stood for and preached all his life.

It is a matter of honour that after his demise, we should come and pay respect for his contributions to the unity and peaceful co-existence of this country.

It is my singular honour and privilege to identify with his immediate family at this difficult time. We thank God that he lived a worthy life.

We are here to condole with the family to let them know that we share in the loss because he was also a father to us. He was an adviser and a guide in what we are set to do for this country, Atiku said.

According to him, the late Afenifere leader always told the truth.

He said that his team would continue to honour Mr Adebanjo and stand by his family.

We will continue to work together so that the dreams and aspirations of the late Papa will continue to flourish, he added.

Atiku, who arrived at about 3.00 p.m., was accompanied by some PDP chieftains, including Dele Momodu and Abdul-Azeez Adediran, the 2023 PDP governorship candidate for Lagos State.

Responding, one of the daughters of the deceased, Sade Ayo-Adebanjo, commended the former vice-president for identifying with the family.

(NAN)

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirms plans to assemble a coalition of the willing to ensure the implementation of any peace agreement on Ukraine, where the UK is going to take a leading role.

At a press conference following the Ukraine summit in London on Sunday, the Prime Minister stated that important steps had been agreed upon. He explained that, first, military assistance would continue, and economic pressure on Russia would be increased to strengthen Ukraine. Second, it was agreed that any lasting peace must ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security, with Ukraine being part of the discussions. Third, in the event of a peace agreement, efforts would be made to further develop Ukraines defense capabilities to deter any future invasion.

Fourth, the Prime Minister emphasized that it was agreed to continue developing a "coalition of the willing" to protect the agreement in Ukraine and guarantee peace.

At a press conference, Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged that not every nation would feel able to contribute, but emphasized that this did not mean they would be inactive. He stated that those who are able to contribute would step up their planning with real urgency. He assured that the UK stood ready to support the efforts with "boots on the ground and planes in the air," alongside other nations, and stressed that Europe must do the hard work.

The British Prime Minister also highlighted that, for peace on the continent to be sustained and successful, strong support from the U.S. was essential. He mentioned that the UK had been working with the U.S. on this issue since his meeting with President Trump the previous week. Starmer made it clear that the UK and the President agreed on the urgent need for a lasting peace.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described the decision by some northern state governments to close all schools throughout the Ramadan fasting period as counterproductive.

This is contained in a statement signed by CAN President Daniel Okoh on Sunday in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some states in the north, like Bauchi, Katsina, Kano, and Kebbi, have directed that all schools should be closed during Ramadan.

According to CAN, such decisions raise serious issues of equity, educational continuity, and the welfare of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.

CAN said the closures would disrupt education in a region that was already grappling with high rates of out-of-school children averaging 44 per cent, and undermine equity in governance.

The closure of schools across these northern states, ranging from nursery to tertiary levels, for an extended period will disrupt academic schedules, and threaten the educational advancement of millions of students.

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These states are already facing alarming rates of out-of-school children, averaging 44 per cent according to recent data, far exceeding the national average.

Such prolonged breaks risk deepening this crisis, undermining efforts to ensure access to quality education for all, CAN said.

CAN also said that, while it respected religious practices, it was dismayed by the lack of broad consultation with stakeholders, prior to taking the decisions.

The association further gave global examples, such as what it said obtained in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where schools remained open with adjusted schedules during Ramadan.

It called for dialogue involving religious leaders, educators, and parents to reassess the policy.

CAN warned that if inclusive solutions were not reached, it may pursue legal action to protect the students constitutional rights to education and freedom of conscience.

It, therefore, called for calm and peaceful engagement on the development, adding that fairness and national cohesion were of critical importance.

(NAN)

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The Lagos State House of Assembly has directed all staff and legislative aides to work remotely indefinitely, to prevent potential violence from the ongoing leadership crisis.

The directive, issued by Acting Clerk Babatunde Ottun, was communicated in a memo to all staff in Lagos on Sunday.

The memo is titled Amendment to Remote Work Schedule Arrangement.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the crisis began after 32 lawmakers removed Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and ex-Clerk Olalekan Onafeko in January.

Mr Obasa was replaced by his former deputy, Mojisola Meranda, as the new Speaker.

The crisis intensified on 17 February when SSS operatives sealed off the Assembly complex, preventing a plenary session.

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In spite of this, lawmakers forced their way into the chambers, held a session, and adjourned indefinitely, declaring a vote of confidence in Ms Meranda.

Meanwhile, three Assembly staff members face trial for allegedly assaulting SSS operatives during the standoff.

Mr Obasa rejected his removal as unconstitutional. On 27 February, he stormed the Assembly complex with heavy security, allegedly breaking into the Speakers office.

He resumed duties, and his supporters also besieged the Assembly, demanding his reinstatement.

Mr Obasa has filed a lawsuit against Ms Meranda, the Assembly, and 36 lawmakers, challenging his removal. The Ikeja Court will hear the case on Friday.

In spite of the ongoing crisis, Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, recognised the leadership change and urged staff to support the new Speaker and Acting Clerk.

Mr Ottun explained that the directive aims to ensure staff safety and prevent a breakdown of law and order.

He said, This directive is necessary pending the resolution of the leadership dispute.

All staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and Legislative Aides are requested to work remotely until further notice.

Mr Ottun assured staff of Speaker Merandas commitment to their safety and a peaceful resolution of the crisis.

(NAN)

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Muktar Yarima, the lawmaker representing the Tarauni Federal Constituency of Kano State, has come under attacks by his constituents for distributing sorghum and millet to them as Ramadan palliatives.

The constituents expressed their anger on social media where they displayed the grains and mocked the lawmaker, saying they are not horses who feed on sorghum.

In a short reel, a commentator, Abba Wrecca, shows a video of security guards flogging beneficiaries to make them queue under the sun.

These are the Sorghum and Millets, a member representing Tarauni and an in-law to Rabiu Kwankwaso is sharing to the people of his constituents (sic); he is now a celebrity with people taking selfies with him and with some of the beneficiaries enjoying under the air conditioning system at the distribution site, Mr Wrecca, wrote in a Facebook post.

In another video, some residents are deriding the items, adding that other lawmakers shared motorcycles, plots of land and other goodies, unlike in Tarauni where millet and sorghum was being distributed.

I swear to God, my mother will not eat this thing in the month of Ramadan, a constituent said.

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Another commentator, Umar Mai Rice, said the lawmaker shared the grains because he grew up eating them.

ALSO READ: Police arrest man for allegedly killing wife over Ramadan food

Oh my God, We are not horses. Even horses have stopped eating sorghum, Dayyib Usman wrote.

Another protester, Zakareeyah Xavi, posted, He has disgraced the people of Tarauni Federal Constituency. Tell him that he is a representative of the people, not horses.

Some constituents reportedly abandoned the grains at the distribution centre in the Tarauni local council area.

However, supporters of the lawmaker responded that the lawmaker also distributed rice and beans.

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A recently unveiled Citizen Report has revealed that at least 73 per cent of young Nigerians aged between 18 and 35 do not trust the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a free, fair and credible election.

The report also found that six in 10 people within the age bracket have avoided politics and political activities because of misinformation on and off social media.

Ninety-four per cent of the respondents noted that they have encountered misinformation about political events, and 73.5 per cent of them found the disinformation campaigns on social media.

The report lent credence to the increasing voter apathy in Nigeria despite a high population of young people.

Low voter turnout has characterised Nigerian elections and has witnessed a steady decline, reaching a new low during the last general elections.

During the 2023 presidential election, only 28 per cent of the 87 million eligible voters exercised their franchise.

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In 2011, voter turnout was at what can now be described as an impressive 53.7 per cent of the voting population. By 2015, it dropped to 43.7 per cent, 34.75 per cent in 2019 and 28 per cent in 2023.

Methodology

The Citizen Report is a data-driven report that presents youth perspectives on key issues, including misinformation, disinformation, AI, and digital threats. It was produced by the Big Cabal media, comprising the TechCabal Insights team and the Citizen by Zikoko team.

The report surveyed 335 Nigerians aged between 18 and 35 using a randomised sampling across the six geopolitical zones.

Fifty-one per cent of respondents are from the northern part of the country, while 49 per cent are from the South.

A further breakdown of the respondents by geopolitical zones shows that 36.7 per cent of respondents were from the North-central, 3.9 per cent from the North-east, 10.8 per cent from the North-west, 2.1 per cent from the South-east, 6.6 per cent from the South-south and 40 per cent from the South-west.

The Citizen report provides actionable insights on how misinformation impacts political engagement, media trust and social cohesion.

It also identifies key challenges and offers strategic solutions to combat misinformation. This report is a call to action for government, CSOs and other stakeholders to build a more informed and resilient society, the report stated.

Increased reliance on social media for news

The report also found a shift from reliance on traditional media as a source of information among young people, with 84 per cent of respondents saying they rely on social media for news.

However, only 57 per cent of them trust the news media to provide accurate information, indicating a trust deficit between media organisations and young Nigerians.

Only 5.1 per cent of respondents say they fully trust digital media, with 18.8 per cent expressing low trust.

Despite high engagement with digital media, trust remains low. Many Nigerians rely on these platforms but are sceptical about their credibility, the report said.

The report noted that the scepticism is fuelled by increasing concerns over misinformation, disinformation, and other threats which undermine confidence in online news sources.

Recommendations

The report recommended the introduction of digital and media literacy into basic education, drawing a lesson from Finland, which ranks highest in media literacy, according to the 2023 Media Literacy Report. Finlands achievement, it said, is mainly due to its education system, where media literacy is incorporated from elementary school to college.

Our survey found that 95 per cent of young people are eager to learn how to tackle misinformation. However, many lack access to resources to do so, it said.

Through collaborations between the government and academia, Nigeria can adopt a media and digital literacy curriculum that would equip young people with the critical thinking skills needed to identify and counter disinformation, it said.

It also recommended that the Nigerian government invest in fact-checking organisations, explaining that most fact-checking organisations in the country are funded by Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international organisations.

It called on the government to enact policies and laws against misinformation and disinformation and regulations against AI-generated content without infringing on citizens rights.

Without proper regulations, AI can be exploited to spread deepfakes and manipulate public opinion. To ensure ethical AI development, Nigeria must establish policies that mandate the identification of individuals and organisations developing AI products. These regulations will help prevent the misuse of AI and safeguard digital privacy, the report stated.

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Mudashiru Obasa has engineered what may go down in history as one of the most remarkable political comebacks in Lagos political landscape.

On Monday, 3 March, he was reinstated as Speaker, 49 days after 36 lawmakers removed him from office.

Mr Obasa was nominated by a lawmaker, Noheem Adams, representing Eti-Osa I, after the former Speaker, Mojisola Meranda, resigned from her position.

Ms Meranda was voted into office following Mr Obasas removal on 13 January. The lawmakers accused Mr Obasa of high-handedness, poor leadership, financial misappropriation, among other allegations.

His removal had sparked widespread controversy and upheaval among members of the assembly and the party ranks.

Mr Obasa claimed that his removal as speaker was illegal, as it occurred while he was abroad and the assembly was on recess. However, lawmakers loyal to Ms Meranda insisted that his removal by over two-thirds majority was constitutional.

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Before Mondays plenary, Mr Obasa, Ms Meranda, and other lawmakers held a meeting outside the chambers. The state Attorney General and Commissioner for Judtice, Lawal Pedro, and the leaders of the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, were also at the meeting, the Punch newspaper reported.

Obasa thanks APC, Meranda

After he was sworn in as Speaker, Mr Obasa thanked APC leaders and the lawmakers for their support.

He also thanked Ms Meranda for her support and appreciated her for being very very very supportive and loyal as deputy speaker.

He assured the people of Lagos of the lawmakers commitment to serving and protecting their interest.

He said his reinstatement is a testament to the assemblys ability to carry out its legislative duties and navigate internal challenges.

What is happening here today shows that Lagos State House of Assembly is very capable and is a house of integrity  a mature house that has internal mechanisms to resolve in the interest of the institution and our party, he said.

The House, thereafter, adjourned indefinitely.

Meranda, first female Speaker, resigns

Ms Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency 1, resigned officially as the Lagos Assembly Speaker.

She announced her resignation during Mondays plenary session.

Her resignation comes 49 days after she was elected into office by 36 lawmakers. She was the first female Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly and the speaker with the shortest tenure.

I did not arrive at this decision lightly. Indeed, I took it with careful consideration all the primary and integral circumstances that accumulated in my election as Speaker on the 13th of January, 2025.

With your unflinching support, I made history as the first female Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, and I value and cherish the solidarity freely given to me.

I am not a quitter. However, I took the above decision in order to save this legislative institution from further unnecessary conflict and embarrassment.

Accordingly, and in deference to our esteemed political leaders, I have agreed to yet again make a personal sacrifice by stepping down as the Speaker of this great Assembly.

Return to Status Quo

Thereafter, a lawmaker, Rauf Olawale, representing Amuwo Odofin Constituency 2, nominated Ms Meranda as deputy speaker.

After the motion was seconded by another lawmaker, Abiodun Orekoya, she was sworn into the office.

Ms Merandas brief tenure as Speaker was marked by upheaval and controversy, sparked by Mr Obasas opposition to his removal from office.

Mr Obasas return as Speaker signifies an end to the weeks-long turmoil that threatened to shake the core of the ruling party, APC.

READ ALSO: Security beefed up at Lagos Assembly amid leadership crisis

The controversy had divided members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), the top advisory body of the APC. Despite claims that the speakership dispute was an internal issue, it was clear that deeper divisions and power struggles existed.

Meanwhile, Yetunde Pinheiro, a judge of the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, is set to hear all pending applications on the suit filed by Mr Obasa on 7 March.

However, Mr Obasas reinstatement suggests he will withdraw the lawsuit.

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kebbi State has reaffirmed its confidence in President Bola Tinubus administration, with Governor Nasir Idris commending the presidents efforts in delivering democratic dividends to Nigerians.

In a statement on Monday, the governors spokesperson, Hahaya Sarki, said the developments occurred at an APC stakeholders meeting in the state.

Speaking to journalists after the closed-door meeting, Governor Idris expressed satisfaction with the progress made by his administration and that of President Tinubu.

The forum unanimously reaffirmed support for President Tinubu and myself to continue our developmental strides. We also agreed to hold such meetings every two to three months to assess party and government performance, the governor stated.

The governor said the meeting provided an opportunity to evaluate government actions and ensure alignment with the partys vision.

The overwhelming verdict from stakeholders is a vote of excellence for both the state and federal administrations. I remain committed to delivering quality governance and improving the welfare of our people, he added.

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At the meeting, the State Chairman of the APC), Abubakar Kana-Zuru, announced the suspension of the special adviser to the governor on power and politics, Kabir Sani-Giant, over alleged misconduct.

The State Working Committee (SWC) has suspended you from the party pending further investigation and disciplinary action due to conduct likely to embarrass and bring the party into disrepute, as you admitted before the investigation committee, the statement read.

The party cited an incident on 8 February, when Mr Sani-Giant allegedly entered the Government House with a snake, intimidating dignitaries and officials.

This act was deemed offensive, embarrassing, and a violation of Article 21 (2)(ii) of the APC Constitution. Any further misconduct during your suspension may result in stricter disciplinary action, including expulsion, the statement concluded.

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Nigeria has recorded 38 confirmed cases and nine deaths from Lassa fever across seven states in one week, spanning 10 to 16 February.

In its latest situation report published Monday, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) disclosed that the confirmed cases and deaths were recorded in seven states and across 17 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

NCDC stated that the states affected are Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Cross River and Kogi States.

It added that the number of confirmed cases decreased from 54 in the previous week to 38 in the reporting week.

More details

NCDC further stated that from week one to seven, 2,178 suspected cases and 89 deaths from the outbreak were recorded.

The suspected cases were reported in Ondo (150), Bauchi (100), Edo (80), Taraba (72), Kogi (13), Ebonyi (13), Gombe (11), Plateau (Five), Benue (Three) Nasarawa (Two), Delta (One) and Cross River (One).

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NCDC stated that deaths reported accounted for a case fatality rate (CFR) of 19.7 per cent, which is higher than the CFR for the same period in 2024 (17.8 per cent).

The NCDC stated that 73 per cent of all confirmed cases were reported from Ondo, Edo, and Bauchi, while 27 per cent were reported from nine states with confirmed Lassa fever cases.

Of the 73% confirmed cases, Ondo reported 34 per cent, Edo 21 per cent, and Bauchi 18%.

It said the predominant age group affected is 21-30 years.

According to the report, the number of suspected cases decreased compared to that reported for the same period in 2024, with no new healthcare workers affected in the reporting week.

The NCDC noted that the National Lassa fever multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System has been activated to coordinate the response activities at all levels.

The centre also said it has deployed National Rapid Response Teams to support onsite control and management efforts using a One Health approach.

Lassa Fever

Lassa fever is a hemorrhagic viral disease transmitted to humans through contact with contaminated food or household items that are infected or even direct contact with its patient.

Its symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, general body weakness, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pains, chest pain, and, in severe cases, unexplainable bleeding from ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and other body openings.

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The Federal Executive Council (FEC), at its third meeting of the year on Monday, approved the completion of four road projects inherited from the previous administration, after a rigorous review.

Minister of Works David Umahi said this while addressing State House Correspondents after the FEC meeting.

He said the first approval by FEC was the award of a contract for the dualisation of Odupani-Itu-Idedem Item in Ikot Ekpene road in Cross River and Akwa Ibom at a total cost of N55 billion in favour of Decon Construction Nigeria Limited.

The next one is the approval for the award of contract for the dualisation of Ibadan-Ilorin road section two, which is in Ogbomosho in Oyo State.

Its N147 billion in favour of GRVe to be constructed on reinforced concrete pavement.

We also have another one approval for the completion of Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano roads, this time is section two, thats 82 kilometres by two, that is 164 kilometres, awarded for N507 billion.

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The last one is the construction of a flyover at Abakpa bordering 82 division Enugu. A flyover is to be constructed to relieve traffic jams there.

The contractor is CCECC and the amount is N24 billion, the minister said.

The minister added that info West Nigeria Ltd., the contractor handling Section One and three of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano section, competitively won the session two.

(NAN)

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The management of Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Benue State has said there are ongoing efforts to rescue the three abducted students of the university.

The universitys spokesperson, Rosemary Waku, told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday that Operation Whirlstroke has also been involved in the rescue operation, but the school has not yet received updates on it.

Ms Waku explained that the management ordered the schools closure last week after students grew restless, hoping the abducted students would be rescued before the end of the one-week break.

The security forces have taken over. They have even brought an operation whirlstroke, she said via telephone.

When contacted on Monday, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Sewuese Anene, said she has previously confirmed the incident but does not have an update on the rescue mission at this time.

Abduction

Last Tuesday, three female students of the university were kidnapped around 8:30 p.m. while walking from their hostels to the auditorium to study.

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A 400 level student of Agricultural Extension at the university who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES said the kidnappers stormed out of the bushes and tried to take the four students who were walking but one of them wiggled out and fled the scene.

No one saw them with a car or motorcycle. They just came out of the forest, he said.

The abduction sparked mild protest by the students who demanded the immediate rescue of their colleagues.

In reaction, the university management issued a one-week break to students, asking them to vacate the hostels on Wednesday.

In a memo titled Security Situation on Campus, signed by the Registrar, John David, the university said the decision was made after a series of consultative meetings with security agencies and stakeholders.

All staff, students, and the general public are enjoined to remain calm as security agencies are working tirelessly to secure the release of the abducted students, the memo reads in part.

The university management condemns the incident in its entirety. The government and the security agencies have been duly informed about the unfortunate incident.

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After 17 years of hiding in the dark to ship illicit drugs worth billions of naira across the world, the reign of a wanted 59-year-old drug baron, Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, has been brought to a halt following his arrest by operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA at his hideout in Ojo area of Lagos.

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Mohamed Marwa, who disclosed this at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday 3rd March 2025 detailed how operatives of its Special Operations Unit had been on the trail of Ogbonnaya following an Interpol red notice against him and information from the National Intelligence Service of South Korea.

According to Mr Marwa: The major development that warranted this special briefing pertains to the arrest of a drug lord whos wanted across the world as the leader of an international drug trafficking organisation. I am therefore pleased to announce this significant breakthrough in our efforts to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates operating within the country. As we have said four years ago when we began the reform of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), our prime targets are drug barons and other important figures that organise drug trafficking rings.

On Wednesday, 12th February 2025, we achieved that objective in the successful arrest of Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff, a 59-year-old drug baron. The suspect was arrested at his hideout at No. 3, Ibukunoluwa Taiwo Close, off LASU Road, Lagos. He has been under NDLEA investigation before his arrest. As a result, we have comprehensive intelligence on his activities, and incontrovertible facts that he is a notorious drug lord who recruited young Nigerians as couriers to smuggle illicit substances into the Republic of Korea (South Korea).

Our records reveal that many Nigerians apprehended outside the country for drug-related offences were linked to him. Furthermore, we have established that he laundered drug proceeds through the importation of electronics and other goods. Following his arrest, a search of his residence led to the recovery of multiple Nigerian international passports belonging to different individuals, many of which contained Korean visas. Additionally, we recovered some illicit substances in a storehouse at the back of his house.

While unmasking the suspects leadership role in the drug underworld, the NDLEA boss said Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff is not a typical domestic drug baron; he is an international trafficker operating both from Nigeria and abroad. His dossier indicates that he served a one-year prison sentence in the Republic of Korea in 2007 and was deported to Nigeria in 2008. Despite this, he continued his illicit trade, remaining actively involved in drug trafficking operations to the Far East.

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Presently, he is wanted in the Republic of Korea for multiple drug trafficking offences in collaboration with his accomplices. An INTERPOL Red Notice was issued for his arrest and extradition to the country for offences committed between 2023 and 2024. From a series of interdictions, it has been established that Ogbonnaya Kevin Jeff is the ringleader of a drug trafficking organisation responsible for smuggling narcotics into the Peoples Republic of Korea. He has been orchestrating operations remotely by giving instructions to drug mules and domestic suppliers who are members of his syndicate spread across Cameroon, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Liberia and other East and Southern African countries.

He further gave insights into what investigations had unearthed about Ogbonnayas illicit trade activities. On 5th October 2023, at a location in Burkina Faso, the suspect dispatched 6,051.06 grams of skunk, concealed in dried chillies and jujube, to a Korean, Kim Dong Wook at a designated address in Jinju City, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea. The package arrived at Incheon Airport on 19th October 2023 at 07:20 am via Air France.

Investigation reveals that while residing in Nigeria, he directed his drug couriers, Santa Elizabeth Pieterse and Carl Yohan Stephan Brisman, to smuggle a total of five kilograms of methamphetamine into South Korea via overseas flights, between December 2023 and April 2024. In recent time alone, he has sent illicit drugs worth over N1.4billion in street value to South Korea.

Ogbonnoya maintains another domestic carrier, identified as Asa, who delivers for him drug consignments to a warehouse operated by Okori Emmanuel, a Nigerian who is his supply manager in South Korea. As of now, two arrest warrants have been issued against Ogbonnaya by the Seoul Central District Court in January and June 2024. These warrants charge him with importing narcotic drugs in violation of Article 3-7 of South Koreas Narcotics Control Act, an offence punishable by a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Mr Marwa assured of NDLEAs commitment to ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a base for international drug trafficking operations. We will continue our relentless fight against illicit drug networks and their financiers, in line with our mandate to safeguard public health and national security. The arrest of Ogbonnaya is therefore an affirmation of our resolve to work with our international partners to ensure no drug baron finds Nigeria a comfort zone to distribute illicit substances within the country or traffic them to other countries.

Femi Babafemi

Director, Media & Advocacy

NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja

Monday 3rd March 2025

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Villagers rescue stranded truck on icy slope

(People's Daily App) 15:46, March 03, 2025

In rural Gansu Province, Northwest China, a heavily loaded truck recently stalled while trying to navigate a steep, icy slope. Observing the situation, nearby villagers quickly gathered to lend a hand, working together to pull the vehicle uphill. They successfully guided the truck to level ground through their coordinated efforts, ensuring its safe passage.

(Video source: Douyin)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/news/all

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni discussed in London the development of a joint action plan to end the war in Ukraine.

"A good meeting with Chairperson of the Council of Ministers of Italy Giorgia Meloni to develop a joint action plan to end the war with a just and sustainable peace," Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram on Sunday.

"No one is interested in the continuation and rapid return of the war, except for Putin, therefore it is important to maintain unity around Ukraine and strengthen the positions of our state in interaction with allies - European countries and the United States," Zelenskyy stressed.

"Ukraine needs peace, backed by reliable security guarantees," the president added.

Zelenskyy also thanked Italy for its continued support and partnership in bringing peace to Ukraine.

Earlier, it was reported that the UK Prime Minister announced the development of a joint plan to achieve peace with the participation of the President of Ukraine, which will then be presented in Washington.
The Office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in Zone 7, Abuja, has invited Benard Ekwote, a politician and former aide to Philip Agbese, a House of Representatives member representing Ado/Ogbadibo/Okpokwu Federal Constituency, over alleged cyberbullying and cyberstalking.

The police accused Mr Ekwote of intentional insult, provocation of public peace, and defamation of character over a Facebook post he made.

The details of the allegations were not contained in an invitation letter dated 25 February, which was sent to Mr Ekwotes WhatsApp number.

But Mr Ekwote told PREMIUM TIMES via telephone on Monday that following calls from some elders and fellow constituents to Mr Agbese, he believed that his former principal is behind the alleged cybercrime allegations.

The letter, signed by Olubunmi Ogedengbe, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), directed Mr Ekwote to report to an officer in charge of the Crack Squad Section at the Zone 7 Police Headquarters, Abuja.

The police also invited three other individualsMichael Agbo, Agih Melvin, and Obeya Ojilewho allegedly shared and commented on Mr Ekwotes post on 14 February.

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The police warned that failure to honour the invitation would lead to criminal proceedings in a court of competent jurisdiction.

Ekwotes post and the Binance bribery allegation

Mr Ekwotes Facebook post was a critique of a statement made by Mr Agbese, who was named in a bribery allegation involving Binance, the global cryptocurrency exchange platform.

On 23 February, Tigran Gambaryan, Binances head of financial crime, alleged that some Nigerian lawmakers demanded a $150 million bribe to halt a probe into the company.

Mr Gambaryan named Mr Agbese, Peter Ankpanke, and another individual later identified as Peter Anakwe.

He also implicated Ginger Onwusibe, Chairman of the House Committee on Financial Crimes, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

In response, Mr Agbese denied any involvement in bribery, stating that while he attended a meeting where Binance was discussed, he was not part of the Financial Crimes Committee and had only stopped by his colleagues office.

Ekwotes Facebook post questions Agbeses defence

Mr Ekwote, in his Facebook post, dissected Mr Agbeses statement by spotlighting contradictions in his denial of attending any meeting with Binance.

He noted that in one paragraph, Mr Agbese denied meeting Binance executives, yet in another, he admitted discussing Binances activities during his visit to his colleagues office.

He said, This means his visit coincided with the committees interface with the Binance team, and as someone who loves gaining knowledge, he joined in the discussion. So why is he denying that he was ever part of a meeting with Binance executives?

Mr Ekwote further suggested that Binance may not be able to produce concrete evidence of bribery since the alleged demand was oral.

Request for postponement

Following the police invitation, Mr Ekwote and the three other individuals engaged their lawyer, Nathaniel Udalo, who wrote to the police on 27 February requesting a postponement of their appearance.

The letter stated, Our clients appeal for a further date for the interview due to their various engagements. Obeya Isaac Oyile and Bernard Oche Ekwote are currently in their respective villages in Benue State, while Michael Agbo, a postgraduate student at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, is presently defending his academic work.

The lawyer requested 6 March 2025 at 12:00 noon as a new date for the interview.

Background

The controversy surrounding Binance and Nigerian authorities dates back to early 2024 when the government accused Binance of manipulating foreign exchange rates.

The government detained Mr Gambaryan and another Binance executive, Nadeem Anjarwalla, when they arrived in Nigeria for discussions in February 2024.

While Mr Anjarwalla later escaped, Mr Gambaryan remained in custody.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) subsequently charged Binance with tax evasion, money laundering, and forex violations.

After months in detention, the federal government, through the EFCC in October 2024 dropped the money laundering charges against Mr Gambaryan, leading to his release.

He later sued the Nigerian government, alleging wrongful detention and seeking compensation.

Despite his release, the NSA and EFCC maintained that their actions were legal.

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Authorities must implement stricter measures to prevent the spread of false allegations. Media platforms should be held accountable for publishing unverified claims, and activists must face legal repercussions if they deliberately spread misinformation. The judiciary also has a role to play in ensuring that justice prevails  not just for alleged victims, but also for those who fall prey to false accusations.

In this age of activism and social justice, certain issues demand our attention, particularly the growing blur between advocacy and defamation. While activism serves as a powerful tool to expose wrongdoing and demand accountability, there are instances where individuals and groups ought to be very careful in deploying information that is unverified as facts, as it could lead to accusations of bias or prejudice.

The recent defamation case involving Premiere Academy, Lugbe, Abuja, and gender activist, Lemmy Ughegbe, is a case in point on why claims need to be properly verified before they are made, otherwise activism could be accused of sensationalism, and lead to the destruction of reputations.

Premiere Academy, an institution in Abuja, found itself embroiled in a media storm following allegations made by Ughegbe regarding the tragic death of 14-year-old Miss Keren-Happuch Aondodoo. Ughegbe repeatedly claimed that the student was raped, that a condom was left inside her, and that this led to sepsis and hyperglycemia, ultimately causing her death on 22 June, 2021. These allegations were widely circulated across media platforms and public forums, and naturally it painted the school in a damning light, sparking public outrage that impacted its reputation very negatively.

Once regarded as a citadel of learning dedicated to nurturing young minds, Premiere Academy is now viewed by some as a place of tragedy and negligence. This shift in perception is said to have had tangible consequences, evident in the steady decline in student enrolment. However, as the legal proceedings unfold, the credibility of Ughegbes claims has come under scrutiny.

This led Premiere Academy to file a N500 million defamation lawsuit against Ughegbe, asserting that his statements were not only false but also deliberately orchestrated to tarnish the schools image. In a significant development, a High Court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), presided over by Justice Kayode Agunloye, admitted eight crucial exhibits submitted by the Academy to substantiate its claims. These include: a flash drive containing video footage of Ughegbe addressing 5,000 lawyers at the 2021 Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), where he made allegedly defamatory remarks about the school and

three years worth of admission registers, showing a significant decline in student enrolment, following the negative publicity that came on the heels of Ughegbes allegations.

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There are also news articles from reputable media outlets, which Ughegbe is said to have used to disseminate unverified reports, and a legal warning letter from Chief Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), urging him to desist from false accusations, alongside a response through his legal representative, Johnbull Adaghe.

While activism plays a critical role in holding institutions accountable, there is need for caution in making claims that have not been verified as facts, which could harm institutions and ultimately undermine the credibility of those who peddle them also  whether social media influencers, media outlets, or activists. When information used is not considered as factual, it could taint the entire advocacy space, making it harder for genuine victims to have their voices heard.

This case serves as a wake-up call for regulatory bodies, the media, and the public to exercise greater scrutiny when dealing with allegations of misconduct. While it is essential to amplify the voices of the oppressed, it is equally crucial to ensure that accusations are backed by verifiable evidence. Sensationalism should never take precedence over factual accuracy.

Authorities must implement stricter measures to prevent the spread of false allegations. Media platforms should be held accountable for publishing unverified claims, and activists must face legal repercussions if they deliberately spread misinformation. The judiciary also has a role to play in ensuring that justice prevails  not just for alleged victims, but also for those who fall prey to false accusations.

As the Premiere Academy defamation case continues, it serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked facts. While society must continue to support real victims and fight against injustices, it must also remain vigilant against those who might want to weaponise information in a manner that impacts the credibility of others negatively.

The court has scheduled the next hearing for 18 March, during which Ughegbes video clip featuring the alleged defamatory remarks will be publicly presented. The cross-examination of witnesses by his legal team is also expected to provide further insights into the case.

While Ughegbe remains defiant, describing the lawsuit as an attempt to silence him, the ongoing legal proceedings will determine whether he was truly advocating for justice or he had other motives in making the claims he did about the Academy. Whatever the outcome, this saga highlights the urgent need for fact-based activism and reporting. Advocacy remains a cornerstone of democratic societies, but its credibility must not be compromised or distorted by any individual or group.

As this case unfolds, one thing is clear: justice must be rooted in truth, and nothing else.

Haroon Aremu Abiodun is a public affairs analyst based in Kano. He can be reached via [email protected]

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Developing and imbibing the values of truth, honesty, contentment, and integrity is essential for Nigerias progress. By incorporating these values into education, leadership, and community practices, Nigerians can build a society that is prosperous, secure, and stable. Learning from nations that have thrived on these values can pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria.

Contentment

Contentment involves being satisfied with what one has and not constantly seeking more. It is about finding happiness and fulfillment in the present moment. This now seems very elusive among many Nigerians, particularly the greedy political class. Nothing is ever enough anymore.

To cultivate contentment, Nigerians need:

Practice mindfulness and gratitude. Encourage individuals to appreciate what they have and focus on the positive aspects of their lives. Promote the idea of simple living. Urge people to live within their means and avoid excessive materialism. Foster a sense of community support, whereby individuals help each other and share resources. This can create a sense of belonging and reduce the desire for excessive accumulation.

Example

Bhutan is known for its emphasis on Gross National Happiness (GNH), rather than Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Bhutanese government prioritises the well-being and contentment of its citizens, leading to a high level of happiness and social cohesion.

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Integrity

Warren Buffet was asked, what do you look out for when hiring people? He replied, I look out for intelligence, energy, and integrity. If they do not have the latter, the first two will kill you. Integrity involves adhering to moral and ethical principles, even when it is challenging. It is about doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. To instil integrity, Nigerians needs:

Strong Legal Frameworks: Establish and enforce strong legal frameworks that promote integrity. Laws and regulations should be clear, and violations should be met with appropriate consequences. Ethical Leadership: Leaders at all levels should demonstrate integrity in their actions. Ethical leadership sets the tone for the entire society. Public Accountability: Create mechanisms for public accountability. Citizens should have the means to hold leaders and institutions accountable for their actions.

A society that values truth and honesty will foster a transparent business environment that attracts investment and promotes economic growth. Integrity in business practices leads to fair competition and sustainable development.

Example

Singapore is renowned for its high levels of integrity and low level of corruption. The Singaporean government has implemented strict anti-corruption laws and promotes ethical behaviour among its citizens. This commitment to integrity has contributed to the countrys economic prosperity and global reputation.

Impact on Economy, Security, Employability, and Political Stability

The values of truth, honesty, contentment, and integrity have far-reaching impacts on various aspects of society:

Economy: A society that values truth and honesty will foster a transparent business environment that attracts investment and promotes economic growth. Integrity in business practices leads to fair competition and sustainable development. Security: When citizens and leaders uphold these values, trust is built within the community. This trust enhances social cohesion and reduces crime rates, leading to a more secure society. Employability: Employers seek individuals who demonstrate honesty and integrity. These values enhance employability and create a workforce that is reliable and trustworthy. Political Stability: A government that operates with transparency and integrity gains the trust of its citizens. This trust leads to political stability, as citizens are more likely to support and cooperate with their leaders.

Selfishness in politics can lead to political instability. When leaders are more concerned with maintaining their power and wealth, they may resort to undemocratic practices, such as rigging elections or suppressing dissent.

Negative Consequences of Selfish Politicians on a Nation

Selfish politicians prioritise their own interests over the well-being of the nation. This behaviour can have devastating consequences, including:

Corruption: Selfish politicians often engage in corrupt practices, diverting public funds for personal gain. This leads to a lack of resources for essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Inequality: When politicians prioritise their own interests, they often implement policies that benefit a select few, while neglecting the needs of the majority. This exacerbates social and economic inequalities. Instability: Selfishness in politics can lead to political instability. When leaders are more concerned with maintaining their power and wealth, they may resort to undemocratic practices, such as rigging elections or suppressing dissent.

Example

The 2008 financial crisis is a prime example of the destructive power of selfish behaviour. The greed and selfishness of a few individuals in the financial sector led to widespread harm to the global economy. This crisis serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting cooperative and altruistic values in all areas of life.

Conclusion

Developing and imbibing the values of truth, honesty, contentment, and integrity is essential for Nigerias progress. By incorporating these values into education, leadership, and community practices, Nigerians can build a society that is prosperous, secure, and stable. Learning from nations that have thrived on these values can pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria.

Ayo Akerele is the senior pastor of Rhema Assembly and the founder of the Voice of the Watchmen Ministries in Ontario, Canada. He can be reached through [email protected]

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Much of our worlds troubles and woes are as a result of the plague of apathy. Apathy is not only plaguing our governance; it has come down to the masses. It is now a plague to the society at large. Our societies are fast losing enthusiasm. We seem to have lost the sense of what matters and what is important. The lack of interest in how things are done and what is right is fast taking over the fabric of our society.

In my previous articles, I examined the first two plagues that are the bane of governance in any era. In the first, we examined cynicism as a factor that leads to the collapse and disintegration of governments, parties and even nations. And, in the second, we examined another factor that plagues governments and governance in general. This is disillusionment.

Today, we are going to continue examining reasons why nations and politicians fail, and governments collapse. This article is especially necessary for the upcoming democracy in our world.

I know the importance of this topic, being from Africa, and Nigeria specifically. I, more than others, know what effect failed governments and ideals can have on whole generations of aspiring young men and women. This article, therefore, is one of my modest contributions to the stability and sustainability of governance in all nations of the earth, but especially in African countries.

The third plague of governance is APATHY. This is going to be the last part of this three-part article. I hope it would be of help to all the countries of the world that wish to stabilise their nations and lead their people to prosperity. Here we go!

Apathy is the lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. Its a state of indifference, or the suppression of emotions such as concern, excitement, motivation and passion. An apathetic individual has the absence of interest or concern for emotional, social, or physical life.

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As seen in the definition above, apathy is first of all the lack of interest, concern, excitement, motivation, passion and emotions. It is a state of indifference that makes an individual to close his eyes to the things she is supposed to respond to. Our world today is fast falling under the crunching plague of apathy.

Apathy is taking over our society by storm. Our children are losing interest in education. The youth seem to have lost their sense of direction due to apathy. Marriages are falling apart largely because of apathy. In most countries of the world, a large percentage of the population dont participate in the political process. The reason can only be traced to one factor  APATHY.

It is this attitude, perverting the nations of the world, that has led to the deterioration of societal problems that could have been dealt with much earlier. For example, in many countries of the world, the problem of obesity is fast becoming a national security issue. The lack of interest, lack of enthusiasm, lack of concern, is now being manifested in excess weight in the bodies of the populace, both adults and youths.

Apathy and evil. The two work hand in hand. They are the same, really. Evil wills it. Apathy allows it. Evil hates the innocent and the defenseless most of all. Apathy doesnt care as long as its not personally inconvenienced.  Jake Thoene.

Altruism is fast becoming a thing of the past. Selfless sacrifice is now seen only as a religious duty. Magnanimity is as rare to come across as trying to find snow in Africa. Nobility is all but left into history.

The worst sin towards our fellow creatures is not to hate them, but to be indifferent to them: thats the essence of inhumanity.  George Bernard Shaw

Much of our worlds troubles and woes are as a result of the plague of apathy. Apathy is not only plaguing our governance; it has come down to the masses. It is now a plague to the society at large. Our societies are fast losing enthusiasm. We seem to have lost the sense of what matters and what is important. The lack of interest in how things are done and what is right is fast taking over the fabric of our society.

Apathy goes to the root of our moral and spiritual crisis today. Apathy is the loss of ability to feel indignant at the work of evil in our lives and in the lives of others. It is the absence of outrage against injustice. It is the erosion of ability to commit oneself to important causes, to care deeply about other people, and to take risks in the struggle against every form of human bondage.  Daniel Migliore

It is this attitude, perverting the nations of the world, that has led to the deterioration of societal problems that could have been dealt with much earlier. For example, in many countries of the world, the problem of obesity is fast becoming a national security issue. The lack of interest, lack of enthusiasm, lack of concern, is now being manifested in excess weight in the bodies of the populace, both adults and youths.

In many countries of the world, apathy in the political process has allowed wrong political parties to take over the government in many nations. The reason is because when only 40 per cent of eligible voters participate in an election and in some countries, it could be as low as 20 per cent, and whoever takes more than 50 per cent majority forms the government. Even though that might not have been the best candidate the country could produce.

When people lose enthusiasm for life, zeal and interest in what is right, they resort to just watching television and surfing the internet, which results in adding of weight, excess calories and obesity.

Wherever there is degeneration and apathy, there also is sexual perversion, cold depravity, miscarriage, premature old age, grumbling youth, there is a decline in the arts, indifference to science, and injustice in all its forms.  Anton Chekhov.

So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of my mouth.  Revelation 3:16

Another global problem that is been caused by lack of interest, enthusiasm or concern is the problem of ecology. Pollution of the air and environment has become a threat to the very existence of humans on earth. Business owners, governments and multinational companies that were supposed to have dealt a fatal blow to the problem of ecology from its very infancy, failed to do so due to apathy. It is apathy that has enabled the situation to deteriorate to the point where it has now become a global problem.

In many countries of the world, apathy in the political process has allowed wrong political parties to take over the government in many nations. The reason is because when only 40 per cent of eligible voters participate in an election and in some countries, it could be as low as 20 per cent, and whoever takes more than 50 per cent majority forms the government. Even though that might not have been the best candidate the country could produce. But because majority of the voters in the land would not go to vote because of apathy, oppressive governments are given birth to. Democratic processes are ridiculed. Elections are rendered ineffective in producing the best leaders of nations. APATHY DESTROYS EVERYTHING.

Elections belong to the people. Its their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.  Abraham Lincoln

Sunday Adelaja is a Nigerian born leader, transformation strategist, pastor and innovator. He was based in Ukraine.

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The quicksand of politics has sucked in the Lagos State House of Assembly over the past couple of months, leading to the emergence of two speakers, both laying claims to the seat at the same time. The former Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, was removed from office on 13 January by 36 out of the 40-member parliament, over allegations of high-handedness and misappropriation of funds. He denies the charges.

Instantly, his deputy, Mojisola Meranda, was nominated and elected as his successor. By that elevation, she became the first female speaker of the assembly in its history.

But after being under a spell of petulance and feeling of abandonment by the states political establishment, Mr Obasa appeared to have found some belated courage that made him force his way back to reckoning last Thursday, with a fortification of security operatives in tow, as he sought to repossess the office of the speaker, which had already been occupied by Ms Meranda.

The office was broken into, alongside other offices in the legislative complex. Mr Obasa then boasted, Im back as Speaker, I remain the Speaker of the Assembly, in response to inquisitive journalists. To make the moment count, he held a brief parliamentary session with the only four lawmakers still loyal to him and adjourned the house sine die.

Im back as Speaker, I remain the Speaker of the Assembly,

This drama was watched by many of the lawmakers who had elected Ms Meranda as the speaker, from outside the gate, which was securely locked by security personnel. The crest-fallen legislators would probably have entered the chambers to dislodge Mr Obasa and his cohort. But in the end, the pro-Meranda group chorused disdainfully, We totally reject Obasa.

Evidently, Mr Obasas derring-do is bemusing as he had earlier filed a case against his impeachment at a Lagos High Court, Ikeja, on 14 February. In jurisdictions where the rule of law matters, or defines the democratic space, his resort to self-help would be considered as an act of violence to the system. Calling it a parliamentary coup would not be out of place. As a matter of fact, the case was first heard in court last Friday and was adjourned to next Friday, 6 March, when the 40 lawmakers are expected to be joined in the suit as co-defendants, following the judges directive.

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Judging from Mr Obasas lamentation after he returned from his foreign trip, following his removal, and the events that preceded it, any observer might have concluded that he had no chance of returning as speaker of the state assembly. By his own admission, his house in Agege was invaded by more than 200 policemen, and My people in Agege were detained. My children did not sleep in this house on that day because they were blocked out, and my wife kept inside. This could only have been carried out at the behest of higher political authorities.

However, not too long after, the tide began to turn. A series of meetings were held, which involved the all-powerful Governors Advisory Council (GAC), headed by Tajudeen Olusi, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. This praetorian outfit of Lagos politics was set up by Tinubu before he became the president. From all indications, the council reports to him. At one of such meetings, Mr Obasa and Ms Meranda were both allegedly asked to resign their speakership for three new names to emerge for consideration in the interest of peace. These were high-wire intrigues, as later events have proven.

It was in the wake of these troubleshooting meetings that the Commissioner of Police in the state led a team of officers to invade the assembly complex under the guise of providing enhanced security. That was the day Mr Obasas visit to the house was alleged to have been first touted. Now, the fog has cleared, putting context to that weird over-drive in providing security for the assembly.

Eventually, it appears to be no coincidence that the moment when Mr Obasa had his way to the legislative chambers, was also the time that the security details of Ms Meranda were withdrawn, while the former speaker had the full complement of his own details restored. Sensing a backlash, about four security operatives were later returned to Ms Meranda, whereas her full security details comprise 18 officers: 12 policemen, four State Security Service (SSS) operatives and two anti-bomb experts.

We strongly suspect the voice of Jacob and the hand of Esau in this high-stakes political comedy. In other words, the twists and turns, especially Mr Obasas reemergence could not have been possible without the political authorities in Abuja being involved. In the shadow of it all is the agency of President Bola Tinubu. Without equivocation and with the benefit of hindsight, he is the supreme godfather in Lagos politics who decides who gets what, when and how. A ready example of this is how a former governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, was denied a second term.

PREMIUM TIMES firmly believes that the Lagos State House of Assembly should be allowed unfettered freedom and its statutory independence to operate as an arm of government, whose functions, powers and mode of operation are clearly spelt out in the Constitution.

Mr Obasa has repeatedly claimed that he is not against being removed from office, on the condition that due process is respected. However, why is he arguing that due process mechanisms were not followed when he is equally using strong arm tactics to stay in office? Should he not have waited for the case he instituted to be resolved by the courts before taking the law into his own hands by reinstalling himself as speaker?

Clearly, Section 92 (2) (c) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, states that a Speaker or Deputy Speaker of a state House of Assembly shall vacate office if removed by a resolution of the House and supported by the votes of not less than two-thirds majority of the members of the House.

Lest it be forgotten, this game of musical chairs in the states assembly has its roots in Mr Obasas frosty relationship with the governor, over his alleged 2027 governorship ambition, amid the unconfirmed interest of Seyi, son of President Tinubu, also eying the seat; and his purported disregard of the GAC, which appears divided over the Obasa saga.

These issues rose to the front burner when Governor Sanwo-olu came to present the 2025 budget before the assembly. He was not only kept waiting for about three hours but was subjected to the befuddling experience of a jibe from Mr Obasa that he was neither too young nor lacked the experience to run for the office of governor, whereas those who have been there before me are not better off. The salvo was not related to the budget presentation. With Mr Sanwo-olu now serving his second and last term, this made Mr Obasas splenetic emission, de-tasteful and unparliamentary.

As a two-term speaker of the house since 2015, Mr Obasa has also represented the Agege state constituency six times, as such he has seen it all in the assembly. Therefore, he should acquiesce to the dictates of democratic principles. Lagos people are all ears to hear from the powers behind the throne on how to resolve this quandary. Hiding behind a finger can only worsen the matter.

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Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Genesis Power & Energy Solutions UK, in London.

The MoU establishes a partnership for the development, financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of notable energy projects in Katsina State.

The MoU covers the completion of the 10MW Wind Power Plant at Lambar Rimi, with potential future integration of 10MW Solar PV technology.

A 50MW power solution for the Katsina Green Economic Zone, beginning with an initial Phase 1 of 10MW and captive power solutions for at least five critical sites across the state, Mr Radda explained.

He stated that the initiative aims to provide reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly power solutions to drive economic growth and attract investments to Katsina State. He added the agreement focuses on addressing energy needs in healthcare, education, and water resources sectors.

Governor Radda stressed his administrations staunch commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and tackling climate change head-on.

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The MoU represents a significant milestone in our ongoing effort to build resilient infrastructure that will not only support Katsinas immediate needs but also ensure a prosperous, greener future for generations to come, the governor added.

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Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, led the State Government delegation on a working visit to Mini Hydroelectric Power Station in Heudreville-Sur -Eure, France.

The Governor, alongside his Special Adviser on Power and Energy, Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmed explored the institutions sustainable energy solutions for Katsina State.

During the strategic visit, Katsina State Government established a partnership with the French Government and Oceans Energy to implement similar mini hydro technology at the Danja Dam.

The mini hydro station visited in France currently powers over 400 homes within its community, serving as a model for the planned implementation in Katsina, the Governor said.

Governor Radda also stated that the partnership aims to enhance irrigation activities and agricultural productivity while introducing cold storage solutions to reduce post-harvest losses faced by local farmers.

Excess energy from the plant will be distributed to surrounding communities, extending the benefits of renewable energy to more residents, he added.

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Similarly, the Governor announced plans to replicate similar projects at the Ajiwa and Zobe Dams as part of the administrations commitment to sustainable development across the state.

This initiative is in line with our dedication to integrating innovative energy solutions with agricultural advancements to create a more resilient and self-sufficient Katsina State, he stated.

This approach, spearheaded by Governor Radda positions Katsina State as an emerging leader in green energy solutions as well as provision of a long-term economic growth and improved quality of life for the citizens of the state.

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The Police Command in Bauchi has confirmed the arrest of a 50-year-old businessman for alleged culpable homicide following a fatal domestic dispute with his 24-year-old second wife.

The spokesman of the command, Ahmed Wakil, in a statement on Sunday said that the tragic incident occurred in the Fadaman-Mada Area of Bauchi during a disagreement over food ingredients and fruits meant for breaking the Ramadan fast.

Reports indicate that the argument escalated, leading to the husband allegedly striking his wife with a cane.

She reportedly collapsed and lost consciousness in their home.

Authorities rushed the victim to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, where medical personnel pronounced her dead.

The Command has launched a full investigation and has taken the suspect into custody, he said.

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Mr Wakil added that the cane allegedly used in the assault had been recovered as evidence, while the deceased had been placed in the mortuary pending an autopsy.

READ ALSO: Twelve burnt to death on Nigerian highway

According to him, the Commissioner of Police (CP), Auwal Musa, reassured the public of the commands dedication to justice, emphasising that domestic violence is a grave offence with serious consequences.

The police command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens while holding perpetrators of criminal acts accountable, he stated.

(NAN)

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Ned Nwokos allegation against Delta governor

Delta North senator Ned Nwoko said last Sunday he rejected a Land Cruiser SUV and a N10 million monthly offer from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.

Mr Nwoko, who recently defected from Nigerias main opposition PDP to the ruling APC, said he declined the offer because the money belongs to the people of the oil-rich state.

I dont want to answer a senator for the sake of it. That is why I was angry with the Delta governor when he wanted to give me a land cruiser and a monthly N10 million, the senator said, adding that the state government would have used it to attack him if he had accepted the offer.

For inside details of this weighty allegation published on Monday, click the link.

Still, on Monday, we reported that efforts by Nigerias anti-graft agency to rid the society of fraudsters paid off, with a lawyer being arraigned over an alleged N1.3 billion forex fraud.

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The suspect, EFCC said, disguised as a bureau de change operator to defraud his victims.

Nobody should interpret my body language, Nigerian governor tells new commissioners

Within the week under review, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State told his newly sworn-in cabinet members not to interpret his body language.

PREMIUM TIMES reported on Tuesday that the governor told the new commissioners that their appointments were not to ignite fights with state leaders at any level of government.

Still, in Akwa Ibom, the state government ordered operatives of the Vehicle Inspection Office to vacate roads after a branch of the Nigerian Bar Association in the state drew its attention to a pending court judgment in that regard.

Details of this story published on Thursday are just a click away.

On the same day, we reported that the ailing lecturer, Inih Ebong, who was unjustly sacked over two decades ago by the University of Uyo, relapsed after responding to treatment for cardiac failure.

Mr Ebong, an associate professor of theatre arts, is also facing homelessness over his inability to pay rent. He is appealing for help from the public.

We reported on Saturday that Governor Eno has queried over 200 aides for being absent at official government functions without permission. The aides were given 48 hours to reply to the query.

Supreme Court sacks Rivers council chairpersons

After almost a year and a half of political turmoil, the Supreme Court delivered a verdict on the political feud between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.

Governor Fubara, in his reaction to the judgement, said, Although we disagree with the judgment, we are bound to obey as law-abiding government, suggesting that though the nations highest court may have ended the legal challenge, the political solution is far from over.

In the verdict, the court sacked the local council chairpersons in the state, stopped federal allocations to Rivers, and restored pro-Wike lawmakers as legitimate assembly members, a matter the state government argued was not before the court for determination.

Click on the above links for details of the verdict and reactions.

Away from politics. In the neighbouring Edo State, we reported on Wednesday that the police have arrested five suspects in connection with the gruesome murder of a seven-year-old boy and the assassination of a local vigilante commander.

Also, in Delta, we reported on Saturday how 12 passengers were burnt to death in an accident along the Benin-Auchi Highway.

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Rivers House of Assembly has given Governor Siminalayi Fubara 48 hours to present the 2025 budget.

The House gave the directive on Monday, its first plenary after the Supreme Court judgment that restored them.

That the House expects you to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill within 48 hours, the House said in a letter signed by the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, and addressed to Governor Fubara

Citing Fridays Supreme Court judgement, which invalidated last years local government election, the lawmakers also notified the governor that they would commence amending Local Government Law No. 5 of 2018 and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Law No. 2 of 2018 to be in tandem with the Electoral Act.

Background

Rivers State has been enmeshed in a political crisis after Mr Fubara fell out with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the FCT minister.

The crisis split the legislature into two factions: 27 lawmakers are loyal to Mr Wike, while four are loyal to Mr Fubara.

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The crisis worsened in December 2023 after the pro-Wike lawmakers reportedly defected from the PDP to the APC, prompting the declaration of their seats as vacant.

Mr Fubara took advantage of the opportunity, presented the budget, and assented to it within 24 hours, prompting a legal challenge by Mr Wikes allies.

The legal tussles that ensued were finally decided by the Supreme Court on Friday in favour of the pro-Wike lawmakers.

In his reaction to the judgement, Governor Fubara said even though he disagreed with the verdict, he would implement it without reservations.

In a statewide broadcast, the governor ordered the council chairpersons to hand over to the heads of local government administrations in their respective domains on Monday.

However, the state assembly, in a letter addressed to the governor, said the Supreme Court judgement on Local Government Autonomy in 2023 prohibits the running of local governments by heads of local government administrations.

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Polish President (1990-1995) Lech Waesa, along with 38 other Polish political prisoners, addressed an appeal to US President Donald Trump, in which they compared the atmosphere of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday to interrogations of the communist government, and called on the US to adhere to the guarantees provided to Ukraine by the Budapest Memorandum.

"We call on the United States to adhere to the guarantees it and the United Kingdom provided in the Budapest Memorandum of 1994, which explicitly provides for a commitment to protect the inviolability of Ukraine's borders in exchange for Ukraine giving up its nuclear resources. These guarantees are unconditional: there is not a word about such assistance being considered an economic exchange," reads the joint statement, which Waesa posted on Facebook on Monday.

The signatories of the appeal note that they watched the broadcast of the conversation between Zelenskyy and Trump "with horror and disgust." "The atmosphere in the Oval Office during this conversation was reminiscent of the one we remember well from interrogations by the Security Service and from the halls of communist courts. Prosecutors and judges, on behalf of the all-powerful communist police, also explained to us that they had all the cards, and we had none. They demanded that we cease our activities, citing the fact that thousands of innocent people were suffering because of us ... We are shocked that you treated President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in this way," the statement says.

The document notes that military and financial material assistance "cannot be equivalent to the blood shed in the name of independence and freedom of Ukraine, Europe and the entire free world," and that gratitude is deserved by those who sacrifice their blood and freedom.

The document was signed by Walesa and other former political prisoners, including activists of the underground Solidarity movement and other opposition in Poland, publishers and publicists, a total of 39 people.
The police in Anambra State have said some gunmen abducted a man and forced him to withdraw over N1 million from his bank account.

Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson in Anambra State, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said the incident happened in February.

He said apart from the N1 million forcefully withdrawn from the victims account, the hoodlums also dispossessed the victim of his two mobile phones worth N820,000.

Arrest

Mr Ikenga said the police operatives attached to the 3-3 Divisional Police Headquarters subsequently arrested the suspected kidnappers on 16 February.

The police spokesperson said the arrest of the suspects followed a tip-off on a kidnap attack in the area.

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He said the operatives subsequently rescued the abducted victim during the operation.

The operatives, in a diligent follow-up of the case, arrested two suspects (names withheld) to enable the operatives to apprehend other gang members and recovered one Ash-coloured Toyota Corolla allegedly belonging to the victim in a mechanic workshop at 3-3 Area, he said.

More arrests

Mr Ikenga said in a separate operation, police operatives arrested three suspected armed robbers on 22 February in Anambra.

The police spokesperson identified the suspects as Miracle Chukwunoso, Charles Chinweze, and Bonaventure Chigozieall males aged between 20 and 26.

He said they were arrested when police operatives stormed a criminal hideout at Igbariam, a university community in Anambra East Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects were positively identified by victims, who were attacked and dispossessed of their personal belongings.

N254,000 was withdrawn from the victims account on 21st February 2025 along Otoko, Igbariam, he said.

A locally fabricated Beretta pistol was recovered from the suspects, according to the police.

Mr Ikenga said the recent operational breakthroughs in Anambra State followed security measures recently emplaced by the State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu.

All the suspects would be charged to court on the conclusion of investigations, he stated.

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Witnesses testimonies against ex-Anambra governor

Last Monday, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) presented their third witness in a N4 billion fraud case against a former governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano.

During the hearing at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the EFCC third witness, Andrew Ali, a staffer of the Central Bank of Nigeria, narrated how the then governor allegedly used three unlicensed companies to siphon funds in the South-eastern state.

Mr Obiano, now a defendant, allegedly diverted the money from the states account between April 2017 and March 2022.

Another prosecution witness, Udochukwu Okparache, told the court last Wednesday that his companys bank account received N860 million from Mr Obiano during his time as governor, although his companyYoudooh Ventures Limiteddid not bid for any contracts at the time.

Youdooh Ventures is among the companies Mr Obiano was accused of using for money laundering.

Probe of police operatives over assault, extortion, others

Efforts to rid the Nigeria Police Force of bad eggs continued last Monday as police authorities in Imo State began the probe of officers accused of assault and extortion of a couple in the state.

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The same day, the police in Ebonyi State announced that they had initiated disciplinary action against their personnel caught in a viral video brandishing a rifle while operating a commercial tricycle in the state.

According to the police, the erring personnel have been identified as Obeji Ikechukwu, an inspector.

But unlike the erring officers, police authorities, on Thursday, hailed some personnel for rejecting N1 million bribe from suspected child traffickers and arresting them.

Enugu moves to regulate fees payable to rent agents, lawyers

Last Tuesday, the Enugu House of Assembly moved to regulate fees payable to rent agents and lawyers by introducing an amendment bill on rent matters.

The bill, which scaled the first reading at the assembly, if passed, will alter certain provisions of the existing Landlord and Tenant Law, CAP. 101, Laws of Enugu State, 2024.

Truck driver killed during police shootout finally buried

Last Wednesday, we reported that Chinedu Ukwu, a truck driver who was killed during a police shootout in Abia State, had finally been buried.

Mr Ukwu, a father of four, died on 14 August 2024 after being hit by a stray bullet during a reported shootout between two police teams in Aba, Abia State.

PDP re-elects expelled official as national vice chairperson

There was a mild drama in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last Wednesday when the party re-elected Ali Odefa as its national vice chairperson in the South-east.

Mr Odefas re-election occurred shortly after a Federal High Court in Abakaliki affirmed his expulsion from the PDP as the partys national vice chairperson (South-east).

Six killed in Enugu fatal road crash

It was a sad day in Enugu State on Thursday when a speeding truck killed six people in a road accident in the state.

The crash occurred along the Agu-Abor Fly Over of the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, near the popular Ugwuonyeama, where over 23 people were killed in a fatal petrol tanker explosion in January.

Ex-Imo attorney-general writes Tinubu on Nnamdi Kanu

The efforts to secure the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), continued last Saturday, with a former attorney-general and commissioner for justice in Imo State, Chukwuma-Machukwu Ume, asking President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the IPOB leaders trial.

Mr Ume, a SAN, called for a political solution in the matter and urged Mr Tinubu to use his good office to secure Mr Kanus release as part of the efforts to restore peace in the South-east.

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The police command in Ondo State has said that investigations are ongoing into the assassination of a businessman, Ismaila Awoyinka, in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of the state.

Funmilayo Odunlami, an assistant suprintendent of police, the commands Public Relations Officer, confirmed the assassination to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Okitipupa.

Investigation is ongoing to unravel the assassination of the businessman, Ms Odunlami said.

NAN reports that residents of Ore were left in shock after the assassination of Mr Awoyinka, a building materials dealer, by unknown gunmen.

The attack occurred on Saturday near his home, opposite Caring Heart Mega School in the Idi Mango area of Ore.

An eyewitness revealed that the businessman was ambushed after performing the Taraweeh prayer, usually held after each day of Ramadan fasting.

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He had just left the mosque at 8:35 p.m. when some men in white clothes arrived on a motorcycle.

As he approached his residence, they shot him at close range, the eyewitness said.

News of his death spread quickly, drawing a crowd of sympathisers to his home, many of whom were in shock.

Taiwo Adegoroye, the Chairman of Odigbo LGA,, expressed his deep concern over the security situation, calling the assassination a tragic loss.

(NAN)

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There is an increased presence of security operatives at the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Neighbourhood Watch are conducting rigorous checks on all vehicles attempting to enter the complex.

Visitors are being barred from accessing the premises, while staff members are required to present their identification cards before being granted entry.

Lawmakers are set to hold a plenary session today despite the heavy security presence.

In a WhatsApp message sent to lawmakers and seen by PREMIUM TIMES, lawmakers were informed of the plenary session scheduled for Monday, 3 March.

Good evening Distinguished Colleagues I have the instruction of the Acting Clerk to inform you all that there would be Plenary Session tomorrow Monday 3rd March 2025.

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To this end, all Officers are requested to report for duty as normal Legislative business resumes. Pls inform others. Thank you. the message read.

The lawmakers meeting is scheduled to be held despite the officials informing civil servants at the assembly complex to work remotely from Monday.

This directive is necessary pending the resolution of the leadership dispute.

All staff at the Assembly, LAHASCOM, and Legislative Aides are requested to work remotely until further notice, Lagos State Head of Service Bode Agoro said in a memo to staff.

The heightened security measure comes amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the impeachment and removal of former Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and the leadership of the current Speaker, Mojisola Meranda.

On Thursday, the ousted speaker stormed the assembly with an entourage of armed security personnel. He also presided over a plenary session with four lawmakers loyal to him. He insists he is still the speaker and that his removal is illegal.

However, 36 lawmakers loyal to Ms Meranda boycotted the session and labelled the plenary session as illegal.

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Abdulazeez Jandor Adediran, the Lagos State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2023 general election, has dumped the party.

At a press conference in Lagos on Monday, Mr Adediran cited persistent anti-party activities, internal sabotage, and lack of discipline as reasons for his decision to resign from the main opposition party.

However, he noted that he arrived at the difficult decision after deep reflection and extensive consultations with his relatives, political associates, and supporters.

Mr Adediran, who did not mention his next move, blamed some elements within the party leadership for sabotaging his candidacy.

Popularly known as Jandor, he contested against the incumbent governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, seeking reelection, and Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party (LP) and came in third.

Internal wrangling

Mr Adediran said that despite his dedication to the ideals of democracy, it is evident that the PDP would not uphold the values of good governance and the pursuit of a better Lagos.

Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later

He said the indiscipline and internal wrangling have made it difficult for progress to be made within the party.

As the governorship candidate in the 2023 election, we ran a campaign based on transformation, development, and the desire for positive change, but unfortunately, the internal betrayals and lack of commitment from the party leadership hindered our chances and left many of our supporters bewildered and disillusioned, he said.

Today is 15 days to exactly 2 years since I contested for the Office of the Governor of Lagos State.

During that electioneering process, we enjoyed passionate and unwavering support from party loyalists, especially at the grassroots. However, some leaders within the party saw our candidacy as a threat to their daily bread.

Attacks from within

The governorship candidate said his team was attacked six times during the political campaigns, but neither the party leaders at the national or state level issued a statement condemning such attacks.

Party leadership

Mr Adediran accused Bode George, a party chieftain, of openly declaring support for the gubernatorial candidate of another party in a press conference and also advised Lagosians not to vote for the party he claimed to be leading as a member of the Board of Trustees.

Mr George had vehemently opposed the candidacy of Mr Adediran. He had backed LPs candidate, and he told Channels TV he had no regrets.

Asked whether he regretted not supporting Jandor, Mr George said, I have no regrets whatsoever (not supporting Jandor). And let me tell you something: I said publicly to our presidential candidate that if they do not honour the Southwest, I wont vote for Atiku; I did not hide it.

Mr George disclosed his membership of the Omo Eko Pataki (important Lagos indigenes) group, and they agreed to pick a candidate to support regardless of political affiliations.

Formal complaint

Meanwhile, Mr Adediran said he and his team made a complaint after the election at the national level about the anti-party activities of some leaders. However, to his disbelief, Mr George was appointed vice chairperson to oversee the disciplinary committee to investigate the matter.

READ ALSO: Meranda resigns as Lagos Assembly Speaker

Mr Adediran described the development as a rude shock, which has turned the party into a joke.

He also noted that he preserved to see how things would pan out, but there was no change.

We have waited this long to see if there will be some sort of respite, but what we see, even at the top, is that the same set of leaders that campaigned and worked openly against the party are the ones holding the aces today, he said.

How do we trust the same people again in the next election cycle, and how do we forgive those who are not sorry for their misdeeds?

Mr Adediran said moving on, he would discuss with well-meaning Nigerians the next course of action that best serves the interests of Lagosians.

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The Lagos State Government has assured commuters that efforts are underway to ease congestion on the alternative pedestrian bridge in Oshodi, following the closure of the main bridge linking Oshodi Bus Terminals 2 and 3.

In a statement on his personal X account on Monday, the Commissioner for the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, acknowledged the challenges residents face because of the high volume of foot traffic.

He reassured the public that the government was taking steps to address the situation.

Dear Lagosians, the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has taken note of the numerous complaints regarding the pedestrian bridge in Oshodi this morning, Mr Wahab wrote.

He commended residents for complying with the states ban on highway crossing and urged them to remain law-abiding while the government works on solutions.

We thank you for adhering to the No Crossing of Highway law in Lagos State. We plead that everyone continues to comply as we work to improve your commute, he added.

Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later

The Punch reported that the congestion follows the governments decision in January to shut down the pedestrian bridge over safety concerns.

The state government had warned against crossing highways where pedestrian bridges are available and launched enforcement measures, including arrests.

The overcrowding has sparked safety concerns among pedestrians, with viral photos and videos showing the alternative bridge packed with commuters. Many have also raised concerns over the rising incidents of theft in the area.

Government officials say measures to ease the pressure on the bridge are already in motion, though specific details on proposed interventions are yet to be disclosed.

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As part of a 360-degree marketing activation, the event brought together top influencers, content creators, industry leaders and press for an immersive experience. Village Underground was carefully chosen to reflect the brand's bold and playful energy, featuring a striking setup that blended fur, metallic textures, and dynamic lighting, all paying homage to Kipling's signature monkey mascot.

Beyond the event, Kipling launched a two-week out-of-home campaign, featuring flypostering across key locations in London, Belgium and Spain. The highlight? A giant inflatable of Kipling's signature monkey at King's Cross Station on February 25. To celebrate, Kipling invited fans to join the moment, with a few lucky winners receiving an invitation to the exclusive event.

AMPLIFYING THE KIPLING LIFESTYLE

A social media takeover showcased Kipling's versatile bags in everyday moments, led by top influencers and creators. The G.rilla Girlz collection was designed to match a unique vibe for every woman, making these bags the perfect companions for all lifestyles. The Kipling monkey played a starring role, reinforcing the brand's core values of playfulness, creativity, and self-expression.

Kipling's key retail partners, including Inno (Belgium), El Corte Ingles (Spain) and Galleria (Germany), also activated in-store displays featuring furry installations, bringing the campaign to life in a tactile, engaging way.

ABOUT THE COLLECTION

Kipling is thrilled to introduce the G.rilla Girlz collection, a fresh and outgoing collection that's designed for the now. It's not just about bags, it's a whole vibe. Iconic styles are reimagined with bold colors and smooth recycled satin, designed for the trendsetters who aren't afraid to make a statement - unapologetically Kipling.

ABOUT KIPLING

Kipling is a global lifestyle brand known for combining thoughtful design with effortless style. Since 1987, Kipling has focused on empowering individuals to express themselves boldly and authentically with products that seamlessly blend functionality, quality, and creativity.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2630646/Kipling_Photo_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2630647/Kipling_Photo_2.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2630648/Kipling_Photo_3.jpg
BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- RayNeo, a leading innovator in consumer Augmented Reality (AR) technology, has unveiled its latest XR glasses, the RayNeo Air 3s, at MWC 2025. Alongside this groundbreaking release, the company showcased its other two innovations: the AI-powered, Full-Color AR Glasses RayNeo X3 Pro and the Camera AI Glasses RayNeo V3. Together, these cutting-edge devices underscore RayNeo's unwavering commitment to redefining immersive experiences and enhancing everyday usability through advanced AR solutions.

RayNeo Unveils Next-Gen XR Glasses RayNeo Air 3s at MWC 2025

RayNeo Air 3s: Lightweight XR for Seamless Daily Use

The RayNeo Air 3s redefines the landscape of lightweight XR glasses, seamlessly merging portability with state-of-the-art display technology. Equipped with 3840 Hz high-frequency dimming, a staggering 200,000:1 contrast ratio, and a 154% sRGB color gamut, the Air 3s delivers breathtaking image quality, setting a new benchmark for birdbath display solutions. Its expansive 201-inch virtual screen and TUV Rheinland-certified eye comfort technology ensure an immersive yet comfortable experience, making it ideal for all-day wear.

Complementing its visual prowess, the Air 3s features an advanced four-speaker structure, delivering the loudest and most immersive audio experience in its class. Designed to effortlessly integrate into daily life, the Air 3s stands as a testament to RayNeo's unwavering commitment to innovation and user-centric design, offering a seamless blend of cutting-edge technology and practicality.

RayNeo X3 Pro: AI-Powered, Full-Colour, Micro-LED Optical Waveguide AR Glasses

The RayNeo X3 Pro continues to push boundaries with its binocular, full-color micro-LED optical waveguide display and the powerful Qualcomm AR1 Gen 1 chip. Weighing just under 3 ounces, the X3 Pro combines portability with advanced AI capabilities, including real-time translation, automated audio summarization, and contextual operational guidance. It's a practical, ready-to-use wearable solution designed for 2025 and beyond.

RayNeo V3: Capturing Life with Clarity and Intelligence

The RayNeo V3 redefines smart glasses with its 12MP Sony IMX681 sensor and Quad Bayer HDR technology, delivering vivid, detailed images even in challenging lighting conditions. Equipped with three directional microphones and advanced noise-cancellation algorithms, the V3 ensures crystal-clear audio to complement its exceptional visual capabilities. The V3 also features advanced AI functionalities, enhancing both recreation and productivityfrom voice-guided strategic insights to seamless task management via its built-in voice assistant.

Experience the Future of AR: Visit RayNeo at MWC 2025

RayNeo invites attendees to experience the future of augmented reality firsthand at MWC 2025. Visit the RayNeo Booth (Booth 2M30, Hall 2, Fira Gran Via, Barcelona) from March 3-6, 2025, to explore the groundbreaking RayNeo Air 3s, the AI-powered RayNeo X3 Pro, and the intelligent RayNeo V3. Immerse yourself in the next generation of AR technology and discover how RayNeo is transforming the way we interact with the digital world. Don't miss this opportunity to witness innovation in action!

About RayNeo

RayNeo is a leading brand in the AR space, dedicated to redefining augmented reality through groundbreaking technology and wearable innovation. Initially incubated within TCL, RayNeo develops AR glasses that seamlessly integrate into everyday life, delivering immersive and intuitive experiences. By combining cutting-edge design with advanced technologies, RayNeo empowers users to explore and interact with the digital world like never before. Committed to shaping the future of AR, RayNeo drives innovation through collaboration and a user-first approach. For more information about RayNeo and its innovative AR technology, visit www.rayneo.com .

CONTACT:

Name: Li Xiaojie

Title: Global PR Manager

Email: lixj@rayneo.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2631471/RayNeo_Unveils_Next_Gen_XR_Glasses_RayNeo_Air_3s_MWC_2025.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2272584/RayNeo_Logo.jpg
State-of-the-art design supports the long-term health and well-being of Nova Scotia, Canada's growing community

HALIFAX, NS , March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Arcadis (EURONEXT: ARCAD), as part of the Plenary PCL Health consortium, is proud to advance its role as lead designer for the transformative QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion Project, the largest healthcare infrastructure project ever undertaken in Atlantic Canada. The project represents a pivotal component of Nova Scotia, Canada's QEII Health Sciences Centre's redevelopment, with the upcoming work set to guide the project through its complete design, construction, and occupancy over the course of six years.

The QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion Project is the largest healthcare infrastructure project ever undertaken in Atlantic Canada.

David Wood, Healthcare Principal, and Project Director at Arcadis, said, "Delivering a modern and sustainable healthcare facility inside an active hospital campus is a complex endeavor requiring collaboration, attention to detail, and creativity. Arcadis is proud of the progress made to date and excited about designing a facility that addresses the needs of current patients and staff while building the hospital of the future."

The 1.2M sq. ft. state-of-the-art acute care facility will usher in a new era of healthcare delivery in the province and will feature 216 inpatient beds,16 cutting-edge operating theatres, a new intensive care unit, and a larger emergency department. Designed and constructed on the existing site, the new facility will seamlessly integrate with the current hospital's facilities. The project will minimize disruptions to ongoing hospital operations while addressing the province's critical healthcare needs by replacing aging infrastructure and enhancing access to care.

Juud Tempelman, Global President, Places at Arcadis, said, "As a world leader in healthcare architecture and design, the QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion Project reflects Arcadis' global expertise in developing forward-thinking environments designed to enhance patient care. From digital innovation to sustainable design, we are excited to help create a facility that is built with the present and the future in mind."

Designed to achieve LEED Silver certification, this project reflects a commitment to the values of the QEII Health Sciences Centre. By celebrating the hospital's community presence and vision, the facility will improve access to quality care while providing people-focused healing environments that enhance patient and staff experiences.

Optimizing site utilization, creating a rational growth pattern, and increasing urban connectivity with the surrounding community are all features focused on strengthening the health and wellness attributes of the project. The emphasis on these ideals, sustainability features, and high-performance design will create a welcoming and contemporary workplace for healthcare professionals and greatly enhance the experience for patients.



Arcadis serves as the Lead Architect and Consultant, overseeing all design deliverables, including architecture, clinical planning, interior design, BIM services, and landscape architecture.

Key Milestones:

Spring 2024: Site preparation, including rock removal and infrastructure enhancements.

Fall 2024: Opening of the new entrance to the existing emergency department.

2025-2031: Construction of the acute care tower progresses, culminating in project completion.

The QEII Halifax Infirmary Expansion Project symbolizes the Province of Nova Scotia's dedication to the improvement and expansion of local healthcare access and infrastructure through high sustainability and design standards.

ABOUT ARCADIS

Arcadis is the world's leading company delivering data-driven sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions for natural and built assets. We are more than 35,000 architects, data analysts, designers, engineers, project planners, water management and sustainability experts, all driven by our passion for improving quality of life. As part of our commitment to accelerating a planet positive future, we work with our clients to make sustainable project choices, combining digital and human innovation, and embracing future-focused skills across the environment, energy and water, buildings, transport, and infrastructure sectors. We operate in over 30 countries, and in 2024 delivered 5.0 billion in gross revenues. www.arcadis.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2630630/QEII.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1838726/5191873/Arcadis_Logo.jp

SOURCE Arcadis
ST. EDWARD, Neb. and HAMILTON, Ill., March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BigIron, the industry's largest agricultural and real estate auction marketplace, and Sullivan Auctioneers, one of the largest real estate and farm machinery auctioneers in the nation, are gearing up for an exciting March auction schedule that includes 40+ agriculture equipment, construction equipment, real estate, livestock, and collector car auctions across the platform. This is a terrific opportunity for those in the agricultural and construction industries to purchase the equipment or land they need as they prepare for the upcoming planting and construction seasons.

The spring auction season kicks off with a two-day no reserve collector car auction March 3-4 presented by Sullivan Auctioneers. This event features more than 170 vehicles including:

This auction is perfect for collectors of all kinds. Whether you're just starting your collection or have a barn full of vehicles, Bidders won't want to miss this sale.

There is no shortage of land auctions on the platform during the month of March. Several exceptional properties are up for bid including the Darlene Rae Johnston Trust land auction in Scotland County, MO on March 18, and the Doug and Melanie Mensing Auction of 699 acres in Dunn County, WI on March 27.

In addition to the platform's regular weekly equipment auctions, several single seller auctions are slated throughout the month. Auctions you won't want to miss in March include:

Equipment financing and shipping for items sold in these auctions are also available through the platform.

"We are excited to kick off the spring buying season with a broad selection of collector cars, equipment, and real estate auctions on the platform," said Jackie Glassman, CEO of BigIron. "Bidders are busy. With our platform, they can bid online at their convenience, and trust they are getting the highest quality items at the most competitive prices in the industry."

The platform offers online-only auctions, enabling Bidders to bid on items up for auction until the sale closes. All auctions offer extended bidding, which increases the time on an item when a bid is placed within the last minutes of the auction to maintain a fair marketplace experience for all Bidders.

For more information about upcoming auctions, to bid, or to become a consignor, please visit www.bigiron.com.

BigIron Social

"Like" us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SellOnBigIron

Follow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/bigironauctions

Sullivan Auctioneers Social

"Like" us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BidSullivan

Follow us on Instagram: Instagram.com/SullivanAuctioneers

About BigIron

Since 1984, BigIron has been the trusted choice for auctions. From its humble beginnings in rural America, BigIron has grown to one of the largest auction companies in North America, helping millions buy, list, and sell their farm, construction, industrial, and transportation equipment, along with real estate, livestock, and collector cars. BigIron continues to lead the market with its unwavering commitment to quality and service, which is why BigIron boasts the largest customer base in the industry. To learn more about BigIron, visit www.bigiron.com or our About Us page.

About Sullivan Auctioneers

Headquartered in Hamilton, Illinois, Sullivan Auctioneers is one of the largest real estate and farm machinery auctioneers in the nation.

For more than 45 years, Sullivan Auctioneers has conducted professional, fast-paced, auctions, connecting its sellers with thousands of interested buyers around the world. For more information about Sullivan Auctioneers, please visit www.sullivanauctioneers.com.

SOURCE BigIron
Von der Leyen to write to EU leaders on Tues to outline plan to 'Rearm Europe': Lasting peace built on strength

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will send a letter to EU member state leaders on Tuesday outlining a plan to strengthen the community's defence capabilities.

She made the corresponding announcement in Brussels on Monday.

Von der Leyen refrained from commenting on the row between US and Ukrainian Presidents, Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which she was asked about by reporters, but answered a question about the plan to rearm Europe, which she mentioned on Sunday in London at the end of a meeting of leaders on Ukraine's defense.

The President of the European Commission said that tomorrow she will inform the member states in a letter about the Rearm Europe plan. We need a massive surge in European Defence. Lasting security is built on strength. And strength begins with strengthening ourselves. And that is the goal of the plan Rearm Europe that I will present to the member states tomorrow," said the President of the European Commission.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala., March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This March, Cory Watson Attorneys is celebrating thirty years of legal service to injury victims and their families through its offices in Birmingham, Nashville, and Memphis. Since its start in 1995 by Ernest Cory and Leila Watson, the firm has secured over $4 billion in verdicts and settlements for clients nationwide.

"The future is bright for Cory Watson. This firm has been built on 30 years of complex mass tort, personal injury cases and environmental litigations," said Ernest Cory, founding shareholder of Cory Watson Attorneys. "From overseeing 2,800 breast implant cases, mesh litigations and many more nationwide litigations that protect consumers, we will always be at the forefront of advocating for those harmed by corporate negligence. Our commitment to seeking justice has never wavered and will continue strong into the decades ahead."

"We built our law firm for strength and endurance. It was predicted we would fail 30 years ago, but we knew we were willing to work harder than the lawyers at the next table, and we were unafraid to try every lawsuit. We remain dedicated to giving our clients the very best legal services, embracing innovative legal strategies, and strengthening our presence in the communities we serve," added Leila Watson, founding shareholder of Cory Watson Attorneys. "As drugs and devices continue to be prescribed without proper warnings and instructions, environmental and toxic exposure cases ramp up, consumer product safety issues increase, and data breaches and privacy violations continue on the rise, we will remain dedicated to delivering justice for every client we serve in these types of cases and beyond."

As Cory Watson Attorneys looks to the future, the firm remains committed to its mission of providing excellent legal representation to individuals and small businesses seeking justice in all types of litigation. For more information about Cory Watson Attorneys, please visit https://www.corywatson.com/ .

About Cory Watson Attorneys:

Cory Watson Attorneys is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with offices in Birmingham, Alabama; Memphis, and Nashville, Tennessee. The firm has recovered more than $4 Billion for clients across the country. Cory Watson's attorneys are frequently at the forefront of major class actions and multidistrict litigations involving dangerous pharmaceuticals and product liability. Firm practice areas include Personal Injury, Product Liability, Class Action, Asbestos, Business & Commercial Litigation, Dangerous Pharmaceuticals, Defective Medical Devices, and Environmental/Toxic Torts.

SOURCE Cory Watson Attorneys
ORANGE CITY, Iowa, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Creative Science, a CIMA Animal Health company, and a leader in veterinary medical solutions, proudly announces the acquisition of Infiniti Medical LLC and its subsidiary Orthomed UK Ltd, two globally recognized brands specializing in veterinary interventional radiology, cardiology, soft tissue surgery, and orthopedics. This strategic acquisition strengthens Creative Science's commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that enhance the standard of care in veterinary medicine.

Infiniti Medical products maintain a leading position in the global animal health tech industry and are sold to veterinarians worldwide. With a foundation in Silicon Valley, Infiniti has led the way in developing groundbreaking veterinary technologies and devices, from its pioneering Vet Stent solutions to advancements in diagnostics, telemedicine, and digital health. Orthomed, renowned for its gold-standard orthopedic implants and instruments, has been a trusted provider of precision-engineered veterinary products for over 15 years, setting new benchmarks for surgical excellence.

"This acquisition represents an exciting opportunity to expand our impact on veterinary medicine," said Lynn Snodgrass, CEO of CIMA Animal Health. "Infiniti Medical and Orthomed are trailblazers in their respective fields, and by joining forces, we can accelerate innovation and provide even greater value to veterinary professionals worldwide."

The integration of Infiniti Medical and Orthomed into Creative Science will enable the combined companies to enhance product offerings, streamline manufacturing, and expand educational initiatives for veterinary surgeons. Orthomed's extensive CPD training programs and Infiniti's commitment to industry leading medical device solutions align seamlessly with Creative Science's mission to support veterinarians with the best possible tools and knowledge.

Jared Finegold, CEO of Infiniti Medical, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: "Infiniti Medical was founded on the belief that advanced technology could revolutionize veterinary medicine. By partnering with Creative Science, we will continue to scale our efforts, invest further in veterinary medical device innovations, and accelerate our development of cutting-edge technologies and training solutions for veterinarians across the globe."

Advisors

Hyde Park Capital Advisors, led by Managing Director Craig Lawson, served as the exclusive financial advisor to Infiniti Medical for this transaction.

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher, & Flom LLP, led by M&A Partner Rick West, and Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati, led by Employee Benefits & Compensation Partner Jaqueline Tokuda, acted as legal counsel to Infiniti Medical.

With this acquisition, Creative Science solidifies its position as a leader in veterinary medical innovation, ensuring that veterinarians have access to state-of-the-art solutions that improve patient care and clinical outcomes.

For more information about Creative Science, please visit www.Creative.Science.

About Creative Science

Creative Science is a leading provider of innovative animal health solutions, formed from the merging of several veterinary-trusted companies, including Arenus Animal Health, Kinetic Vet, Banixx, Equine Medical & Surgical Associates, Breeder's Choice, and Exodus Breeders. With a strong commitment to science and service, Creative Science's mission is to bridge the critical gaps in pet, livestock, and equine care, ensuring that veterinarians, owners, and producers have access to essential tools, advancing animal healthcare and supporting animals' overall well-being

SOURCE Creative Science
MORRISTOWN, N.J., March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Crum & Forster (C&F) is pleased to announce its support of the 2025 Insurance Industry Charitable Foundation (IICF) Global Conference, taking place June 10-11 in New York City; C&F will serve as the event's Diamond Presenting Sponsor. In addition to its sponsorship, C&F CEO, Marc Adee, will be a featured speaker  participating in a fireside chat discussing emerging talent and the industry's changing demands.

This year's conference theme is Empowering Our Future: Personal Leadership, Innovation, and Winning Talent Strategies  themes that C&F actively supports.

"Crum & Forster is pleased to support the IICF Global Conference and its mission to foster leadership, innovation, and meaningful change within the industry and our communities," said Marc Adee, CEO of Crum & Forster. "I look forward to attending and discussing the future of our industry, along with the emerging leaders who will drive it forward."

The IICF Global Conference brings together hundreds of insurance professionals from all career levels for a unique learning, sharing, and networking experience. The conference is also an opportunity for attendees to make a meaningful impact, as proceeds benefit nonprofit partners serving children and women, families, veterans, and more.

"Crum & Forster is deeply committed to corporate social responsibility and industry advancement," shared Barbra Katz, Chief Human Resources Officer for C&F. "C&F's involvement in and sponsorship of the 2025 IICF Global Conference underscores our dedication to supporting initiatives that drive professional and personal growth  attracting the best and brightest talent to the insurance industry and empowering its future leaders."

About Crum & Forster

Crum & Forster (www.cfins.com) is a leading national property, casualty, and accident & health insurer, providing specialty insurance products through its admitted and surplus lines insurance companies.

Founded in 1822, C&F is one of the oldest U.S. insurance companies, and today conducts business through a network of independent agents, brokers and wholesalers. C&F had $5.3 billion in gross written premium in 2023 and is rated "A" Excellent by AM Best (2024).

The C&F logo, C&F and Crum & Forster are registered trademarks of United States Fire Insurance Company.

To learn more, follow us on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

Media Contact

Amy Whilldin

AVP, Public Relations & Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE Crum & Forster
CureDuchenne Clinic within the Neuromuscular Program at CHOC Will Expand Access to Exceptional Care, Deliver Cutting-Edge Treatments, and Drive Innovative Research

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- CureDuchenne, a global leader in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) research, care, and advocacy, has announced a landmark partnership with Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) to establish the CureDuchenne Clinic within the Neuromuscular Program at CHOC. This initiative will provide state-of-the-art, multidisciplinary care and the latest advancements in diagnostics and treatmentall in one location, enhancing access to families in Southern California and beyond.

CureDuchenne, a nonprofit based in Newport Beach, CA, that serves a global patient population, and CHOC, a premier pediatric healthcare system that is now part of Rady Children's Health, are building on decades of expertise to establish world-class care and research, integrating cutting-edge therapies, clinical trials, and expert-led services to enhance both quality of life and long-term outcomes for individuals with DMD and other neuromuscular diseases. CureDuchenne has granted CHOC nearly $1.5 million over three years to fund the CureDuchenne Clinic within the Neuromuscular Program at CHOC. Key aims of the partnership are to:

expand CHOC's multidisciplinary neuromuscular program, offering a range of specialties all under one roof;

advance the use of next-generation diagnostics for earlier and more precise disease monitoring.

accelerate access to gene therapies and emerging treatments through the Outpatient Infusion Center to be located in CHOC's new nine-story, outpatient tower in Orange, CA ;

; develop a national model for adult transition, ensuring long-term, comprehensive care as patients age;

expand participation in clinical trials and research initiatives to ensure more individuals have access to promising therapies and scientific advancements; and

create standards of care with a unique perspective on Southern California's diverse patient population, including prioritizing the special concerns of low-income families facing health inequities.

"Comprehensive care from an experienced, multidisciplinary healthcare team is critical to addressing the complex needs of children living with Duchenne. Through our partnership with CHOC, we are creating a seamless, patient-centered approach that integrates expert clinical care with groundbreaking research and innovative treatments. With CHOC's world-class medical expertise and CureDuchenne's commitment to accelerating therapy development, the CureDuchenne Clinic at CHOC will not only enhance access to the best possible care but also drive forward the next generation of Duchenne treatmentshelping individuals live longer, stronger lives," said Debra Miller, Founder and CEO of CureDuchenne.

"I am so honored to provide leading-edge care for this special patient population and their families. Our Neuromuscular Program is deeply grateful to CureDuchenne for investing in our work to rapidly elevate how we care for our patients with DMD. We are at an incredible moment to drive advancements in care and our partnership with CureDuchenne will help us chart a bright future," said Dr. Julian Thomas, Medical Director of the Neuromuscular Program at CHOC.

The CureDuchenne Clinic within the Neuromuscular Program at CHOC will be led by a dedicated team of leading specialists under the direction of Dr. Julian Thomas and Dr. John Crawford, Medical Director, Neurology, CHOC and Co-Medical Director CHOC Neurosciences Institute.

About CureDuchenne

Over twenty years ago, CureDuchenne was created with one goal: to find and fund a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, one of the most common and severe forms of muscular dystrophy. Today, CureDuchenne is recognized as a global leader in research, patient care, and innovation for improving and extending the lives of those with Duchenne. CureDuchenne's innovative venture philanthropy model has advanced transformative treatments for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, including 18 projects that advanced to human clinical trials and multiple projects to overcome the limitations of exon-skipping and gene therapy. In addition, CureDuchenne contributed early funding to the first FDA-approved Duchenne drug, pioneered the first and only Duchenne physical and occupational therapist certification program and created an innovative biobank and data registry, accelerating research toward a cure. For more information on how to help raise awareness and funds needed for research, please visit cureduchenne.org.

SOURCE CureDuchenne
A model for cities nationwide, this documentary showcases Cleveland's efforts to bridge the digital divide through technology, community, and storytelling.

CLEVELAND, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Driven to Connect, a new documentary produced by DigitalC with support from Microsoft Airband, chronicles the first year of a four-year plan to connect thousands of Cleveland residents to high-speed home internet and digital skills trainingan effort that positions the city on a path from worst to first in connectivity.

This approach to building community through connectivity is centered on residents. Post this Watch Driven to Connectthe documentary capturing Clevelands connectivity movement, expanding access to high-speed home internet and digital skills training. DigitalC CEO Joshua Edmonds welcomes attendees to the Driven to Connect documentary premiere, opening an event about expanding high-speed home internet access and building a stronger, connected Cleveland.

This initiative aims to connect 23,500 households to 100/100 Mbps internet for $18/month and provide digital skills training to 50,000 residents by the end of 2027. As one of the least connected cities in the nation, Cleveland is leveraging historic investments and public-private-philanthropic partnerships to expand access, demonstrating a scalable model for other cities working to close the digital divide.

"DigitalC sets an example of how broadband solutions, combined with community storytelling, can drive lasting impact and serve as a model for other cities tackling this issue," said Shunda Leecost, Microsoft Airband Initiative Partnership Manager at Microsoft. "We have been a proud partner of DigitalC since 2021, supporting its growth from primarily offering digital skills training to now delivering high-speed home internet."

The documentary, produced by Perspective Filmworks LLC, highlights the impact of broadband access on Cleveland residentsfrom enabling telehealth and education to creating new economic opportunities.

"This approach to building community through connectivity is centered on residents. When they feel joy at a connection, rally behind their community-based internet service provider, and pray for our network to succeedthat is purpose fulfilled," said Joshua Edmonds, Chief Executive Officer at DigitalC. "That is why we are making history in delivering on our promise to connect Cleveland and documenting the journey for others."

The Driven to Connect documentary premiered on February 27 at CMSD Arnold Pinkney East Professional Center, in collaboration with Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). The event brought together local elected officials, internet subscribers, vendors, board members, and community leaders, sparking conversations about Cleveland's digital future.

"The documentary illustrates what's possible when multiple sectors align with nonprofits to solve a real problem. Cleveland is proving that when you combine a people-first mindset with a commitment to cutting-edge technology solutions, you can change the future path for our scholars," said Curtis Timmons, Chief Information Officer at CMSD and Board Member at DigitalC.

As part of the event, DigitalC and CMSD set up Digital Gradebook Activation Stations, encouraging parents to activate accounts to track student progress. During the Q&A session, attendees engaged in discussions on DigitalC's plans, network expansion, and ways to support the initiative.

"Storytelling gives power to the peopleamplifying their struggles, their victories, their voices. In Cleveland, we're proving what's possible and telling the story of how it's done," said Wesley Wood, Driven to Connect Film Director and Founder at Perspective Filmworks LLC.

The event was made possible through support from sponsors, including CTI Connect, Tarana Wireless, Inc., WAV, LLC., Crown Castle, and Winncom Technologies.

Watch the full documentary on YouTube: https://bit.ly/driventoconnectdoc

About DigitalC

DigitalC's mission is to deploy a premier, state-of-the-art network that is affordable, reliable, and sustainable to bridge the digital divide  for good. Committed to changing the world one connection at a time, DigitalC offers superior internet, accessible community spaces, and tailored digital skills training to ensure an equitable digital future. By focusing on these core areas, DigitalC aims to create a transformative impact on the community, ensuring that everyone can thrive in the digital age. Learn more at: www.digitalc.org .

SOURCE DigitalC
Line Striping & Pavement Maintenance Franchise marked 2024 as a year of strategic expansion, strengthened brand presence and enhanced service offerings.

HOUSTON, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- EverLine Coatings, North America's fastest-growing line striping and pavement maintenance service business is proudly announcing another year of achievements in 2024. The brand saw many accomplishments over the past year including, prestigious accolades, a strategic partnership and impressive growth throughout North America.

Over the course of the year, the brand experienced substantial growth, adding 20 new franchise locations in the United States and 1 in Canada, including in the key market of the state of California, further broadening reach for superior line striping and pavement maintenance services.

The notable accomplishments achieved by EverLine in 2024 include:

Entrepreneur's Franchise 500: The brand has earned recognition for its exceptional performance in areas such as unit growth, financial strength and stability for the second year with Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500 rankings. EverLine ranked at No. 441 moving up from their ranking last year. The brand secured this spot on its highly- competitive annual ranking, which is based on criteria encompassing overall cost, size and growth, support, and overall brand strength. This ranking signifies a significant accomplishment for many emerging brands making their mark in the franchise space.

The brand has earned recognition for its exceptional performance in areas such as unit growth, financial strength and stability for the second year with Entrepreneur's 2025 Franchise 500 rankings. EverLine ranked at moving up from their ranking last year. The brand secured this spot on its highly- competitive annual ranking, which is based on criteria encompassing overall cost, size and growth, support, and overall brand strength. This ranking signifies a significant accomplishment for many emerging brands making their mark in the franchise space. Franchise Business Review Recognition: The franchise also garnered national recognition in the Franchisee Satisfaction Awards of 2025 as one of the Top 200 Franchises by the Franchise Business Review . Rankings are based on surveys shared by the brand's franchisees according to criteria including core values, training and support, executive leadership, financial opportunity, franchisee community, and overall satisfaction. EverLine Coatings ranked No. 62 in satisfaction this year.

The franchise also garnered national recognition in the Franchisee Satisfaction Awards of 2025 as one of the . Rankings are based on surveys shared by the brand's franchisees according to criteria including core values, training and support, executive leadership, financial opportunity, franchisee community, and overall satisfaction. EverLine Coatings ranked in satisfaction this year. The 2025 Top 100 Canadian Franchise: Additionally, EverLine was placed as No. 36 in the 2025 Elite Canadian Franchise Top 100. The list is based on everything from growth to the support offered to franchisees. It has recognized EverLine as one of the sector's brightest businesses in Canada .

Additionally, EverLine was placed as in the 2025 Elite Canadian Franchise Top 100. The list is based on everything from growth to the support offered to franchisees. It has recognized EverLine as one of the sector's brightest businesses in . Key Partnership with Red Iron Group: The brand has secured a strategic investment from Red Iron Group, a Menlo Park, California -based private investment firm. The partnership reflects EverLine's successful journey towards becoming the premier self-performing commercial and industrial facility services brand across North America .

The brand has secured a strategic investment from Red Iron Group, a -based private investment firm. The partnership reflects EverLine's successful journey towards becoming the premier self-performing commercial and industrial facility services brand across . Franchisees to Enter the '2025 Millionaires Club': EverLine's success is driven by the hard work and dedication of its franchisees. Thanks to their commitment and passions, 10 franchisees across North America have proudly earned a place in the '2025 Millionaires Club', a testament to their outstanding efforts and achievements.

"EverLine continues to redefine what's possible in the franchise world when it comes to exceptional line striping and pavement maintenance," said John Evans, Founder and CEO of EverLine Coatings. "None of this growth would be possible without our incredible franchisees, whose dedication and hard work drive our success. Their commitment to excellence has strengthened our brand, fueled our momentum and proven our financial resilience  even in challenging times. We are immensely proud of what we've built together and excited to keep raising the bar in the year ahead."

EverLine Coatings offers various parking lot services, including striping and pavement maintenance, seal coating, crack sealing, and repair. The franchise also offers specialized services including custom branded stenciling with durable traffic products, etc. Additionally, the brand has built a credible reputation among national accounts serving the pharmacy, retail, and convenience store sectors with interior floor coating applications for safety lines, slip-resistant, and protective epoxy floor coatings in industrial centers through its EverFloor Durable Systems brand division.

For information on becoming a franchisee, please visit: https://everlinefranchise.com/us/

About EverLine Coatings

EverLine Coatings and Services is the first franchise company to bring sophistication to the underdeveloped, highly fragmented line striping and pavement maintenance industry as a full-service provider, positioning itself as the premier choice for parking lot maintenance. Since its founding in 2012, the company has seen significant growth with 44 territories in Canada and 235 open and operating in the U.S. with 115 territories currently in development. EverLine provides a much-needed solution for property owners and managers across North America looking for a professional, credible, communicative, and quality-focused line striping and pavement maintenance service provider.

MEDIA CONTACT: Ali Molina, Fishman Public Relations, [email protected]

SOURCE EverLine Coatings
Episode 2 of Digital Disruption, a video podcast from global research and advisory firm Info-Tech Research Group, features AI strategist and former OpenAI Head of Go-to-Market Zack Kass. In the new episode, titled "How AI Will Change Society Forever," Kass shares with host Geoff Neilson his expert insights on the transformative power of AI, its implications for business and society, and the evolving role of leadership in the age of artificial intelligence.

TORONTO, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - As AI's rapid evolution continues to challenge and transform businesses across the globe, the second episode of Digital Disruption, Info-Tech Research Group's podcast series, features Zack Kass, a seasoned AI leader and former head of go-to-market at OpenAI. In the episode, Kass shares his perspective on how organizations can successfully embrace artificial intelligence to drive meaningful change.

Episode 2 of Digital Disruption, a video podcast from Info-Tech Research Group, features AI strategist and former OpenAI Head of Go-to-Market Zack Kass and explores how organizations can successfully embrace AI to drive meaningful change. (CNW Group/Info-Tech Research Group)

With over 15 years of experience in AI commercialization, Kass has been instrumental in helping enterprises integrate AI-driven strategies. He has worked closely with Fortune 1000 companies, including Coca-Cola, Morgan Stanley, and Amgen, guiding them through the complexities of AI adoption. Now, as an advisor to top executives and an executive-in-residence at the University of Virginia's McIntire School of Commerce, Kass provides insights into the broader implications of AI for businesses and decision-makers.

"Zack has been in the room where the generative AI tools of the future are being built and deployed," says Geoff Nielson, senior vice president of brand at Info-Tech Research Group and host of Digital Disruption. "His perspective on what this technology can do and where it is going will be invaluable to anyone looking to navigate the fast-changing digital landscape."

Digital Disruption, Episode 2: "How AI Will Change Society Forever"

The latest episode of Digital Disruption with guest Zack Kass will explore:

The evolving impact of AI on industries and leadership roles.

How businesses can balance innovation with ethical considerations.

The strategic decisions leaders need to make today to stay competitive in an AI-driven future.

"The AI revolution is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, and organizations that proactively adapt will gain a significant advantage," explains Nielson. "This conversation goes beyond the technical aspects of AI  it's about equipping leaders with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the digital future effectively."

The episode of Digital Disruption featuring Zack Kass is now available on YouTube, Apple Music, and Spotify. IT and business professionals are encouraged to subscribe for insights from top industry experts shaping the future of digital transformation.

For more details, visit the Digital Disruption podcast page and follow Info-Tech Research Group on LinkedIn and X for updates.

To learn more about guest opportunities and participation in upcoming episodes, please contact [email protected].

About Info-Tech Research Group

Info-Tech Research Group is one of the world's leading research and advisory firms, proudly serving over 30,000 IT and HR professionals. The company produces unbiased, highly relevant research and provides advisory services to help leaders make strategic, timely, and well-informed decisions. For nearly 30 years, Info-Tech has partnered closely with teams to provide them with everything they need, from actionable tools to analyst guidance, ensuring they deliver measurable results for their organizations.

To learn more about Info-Tech's divisions, visit McLean & Company for HR research and advisory services and SoftwareReviews for software buying insights.

Media professionals can register for unrestricted access to research across IT, HR, and software and hundreds of industry analysts through the firm's Media Insiders program. To gain access, contact [email protected].

SOURCE Info-Tech Research Group
Ed Siskel brings extensive government experience at the highest levels to the firm's top-tier White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice

CHICAGO and WASHINGTON, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Latham & Watkins LLP1 is pleased to announce that Ed Siskel has joined the firm's Chicago and Washington, D.C. offices as a partner in the White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice and as a member of the Litigation & Trial Department. Siskel most recently served as White House Counsel for President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. His career includes notable leadership roles in the US Department of Justice (DOJ), US Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois, the City of Chicago, at private equity firm Grosvenor Holdings, and in private practice. Siskel's practice will focus on white collar defense, risk and crisis management, government and internal investigations, corporate governance regulatory compliance, and complex litigation.

Ed Siskel, Partner, Latham & Watkins

"Ed brings a rare combination of high-level White House, DOJ, and private sector experience to Latham," said Rich Trobman, Chair and Managing Partner of Latham & Watkins. "His proficiency in multifaceted legal issues has been honed by serving as a legal advisor to two US presidents. Ed's proven ability to see around corners and manage high-stakes matters at the intersection of law, policy, and business strategy will be a tremendous asset to our team and clients alike. We are excited to welcome Ed to Latham."

As White House Counsel for President Biden, Siskel served as the president's chief legal advisor, leading the White House's in-house legal team while advising on a wide range of critical matters, including legislative initiatives, executive actions, and regulatory compliance. He previously served as Deputy White House Counsel for President Obama, where he advised on complex legal challenges and significant policy initiatives. Siskel also previously served as an Associate Deputy Attorney General, where he guided DOJ leadership on critical issues and contributed to national legal strategies.

"Ed's deep Chicago roots, national profile, and high-caliber talent make him a phenomenal addition to Latham  we're thrilled to have him join us in Chicago," said Mary Rose Alexander, Managing Partner of the firm's Chicago office. "Ed comes with strong ties to our city's business, civic, and legal community, having worked as a prosecutor, mayoral advisor, and in the private sector. His experience managing sensitive matters at the highest levels of government and business will be invaluable to our clients facing bet-the-company challenges, particularly those involving regulatory compliance and litigation."

In Chicago, Siskel served as an Assistant US Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, where he prosecuted a wide array of federal criminal cases and was responsible for investigating and litigating complex matters, including financial fraud, public corruption, and organized crime. He also served as Corporation Counsel to Mayor Rahm Emanuel, managing the city's legal affairs and addressing critical municipal issues. Prior to his appointment as White House Counsel for President Biden, Siskel was the Chief Legal Officer of Chicago-based private equity firm Grosvenor Holdings.

Latham's Chicago office boasts a number of former senior government leaders, and Siskel's addition follows that of partner Gary Feinerman, who previously served as a district judge of the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and Solicitor General of Illinois.

"Ed brings unparalleled insight from his experience as White House Counsel. He strengthens our position as the go-to firm for sophisticated white collar defense and investigations matters," said Kevin Chambers, Global Co-Chair of the firm's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice. "Throughout his distinguished career, Ed has shown an unwavering commitment to excellence and an exceptional capacity for leadership," remarked Marc Berger, Global Co-Chair of the firm's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice. "Clients will greatly value Ed's ability to skillfully counsel boards and executives on crisis and proactive risk management," added Terra Reynolds, Global Vice Chair of the firm's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice.

"Latham stands out as the premier global platform, with an esteemed white collar team that has always impressed me," said Siskel. "The firm's renowned client service, seamless integration across offices, and collaborative culture align perfectly with my approach to serving clients. No other firm provides such an ideal foundation for me to embark on this next chapter in my career. I look forward to drawing on my experience and the Latham platform to help clients navigate their most pressing challenges."

Siskel is the latest high-profile former government official to join Latham's preeminent White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, after the recent arrivals of Marc Berger, former Acting Director and Deputy Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement and now Co-Chair of Latham's White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, and Paul Rosen , former Assistant Secretary of the US Department of Treasury for Investment Security.

Siskel received his JD from the University of Chicago Law School and his BA from Wesleyan University. He clerked for Judge Dorothy Wright Nelson of the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and US Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens.

About Latham & Watkins (lw.com)

Latham & Watkins delivers innovative solutions to complex legal and business challenges around the world. From a global platform, our lawyers advise clients on market-shaping transactions, high-stakes litigation and trials, and sophisticated regulatory matters. Latham is one of the world's largest providers of pro bono services, steadfastly supports initiatives designed to advance diversity within the firm and the legal profession, and is committed to exploring and promoting environmental sustainability.

Notes to Editors

1 Latham & Watkins operates worldwide as a limited liability partnership organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (USA) with affiliated limited liability partnerships conducting the practice in France, Hong Kong, Italy, Singapore, and the United Kingdom and as an affiliated partnership conducting the practice in Japan. Latham & Watkins operates in Israel through a limited liability company, in South Korea as a Foreign Legal Consultant Office, and in Saudi Arabia through a limited liability company.

Contacts

Mary Rose Alexander, Chicago Office Managing Partner, +1.312.876.7672

Kevin Chambers, Global Co-Chair, White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, +1.202.637.2190

Marc Berger, Global Co-Chair, White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, +1.212.906.1263

Terra Reynolds, Global Vice Chair, White Collar Defense & Investigations Practice, +1.312.876.7640

SOURCE Latham & Watkins LLP
BEIJING, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Global attention will turn to Beijing as the "two sessions," the annual meetings of China's top legislature and the top political advisory body, commence. This gathering serves as a critical platform where the people's voices will be heard by policymakers, while the country's development priorities will be discussed.

With the people's well-being in mind, Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, participated in 59 deliberations and discussions with deputies and advisors from across China during the two sessions from 2013 to 2024, according to Xinhua.

Xi has always highlighted the need to make every effort to enable China's 1.4 billion people to lead a better life on the path to Chinese modernization. He treats the "little things," such as warm accommodation, hot meals, fresh air, and even rural toilet facilities, not as trivialities but significant aspects of his state governance, Xinhua reported.

When visiting the delegation of Sichuan deputies during the two sessions in 2017, Xi said he felt "pretty worried" when reading reports that the cliff villagers were coming and going via a rattan ladder, according to People's Daily.

When Xi took part in a deliberation with deputies from Northwest China's Qinghai Province in 2021, he asked about whether local people use latrines or flush toilets, what their electrically-heated brick beds look like, and the population, origins and customs of the Tu ethnic people.

When he took part in deliberations with NPC deputies from the delegation of Jiangsu Province last year, Xi pointed out that the people-centered development philosophy should be upheld.

"The people's well-being should be steadily improved in the course of pursuing development, so as to guide and encourage the broad masses to create a happy life with their own hands," Xi said.

Vivid reflection

People in remote Atule'er of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, used to climb 17 rattan ladders if they wanted to leave or come home to their village, which is perched on an 800-meter-high cliff, CGTN reported.

When visiting the delegation of Sichuan lawmakers during the two sessions in 2017, Xi said he felt "pretty worried" when reading reports about the cliff villagers.

In February, 2018, Xi himself visited the homes of impoverished villagers of the Yi ethnic group who live deep in the Daliang Mountains of Zhaojue County, Sichuan Province. Xi asked the villagers about their lives and discussed poverty alleviation with local officials and villagers, Xinhua reported.

He stressed that not a single ethnic group, family or individual should be left behind in the building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects in China.

During two sessions in 2022, Xi asked again about the life of villagers in Atule'er when he visited national agriculture, welfare and social security advisors at the fifth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). CPPCC member Yeshe Dawa of the Sichuan Province Department of Civil Affairs presented two photos of the village - one showed the rattan ladders that once hung precariously from steep cliffs; the other was a steel ladder replacement.

In 2017, a handrail-equipped steel ladder was built with government funding, making the trek easier and safer. In a resettlement program funded by the government in 2020, all 84 households in poverty from the village in Zhaojue county, Sichuan's Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, moved to new houses in the county town. But the village was not abandoned. Instead, it has become a tourism spot and income source for the villagers as its agriculture and tourism have been developed with government support.

The changes in Daliang Mountain are a vivid reflection of China's efforts in the new era to enhance the wellbeing of its people and move toward common prosperity.

Every small matter counts

When Xi took part in a deliberation with NPC deputies from Qinghai Province in 2021, six deputies gave speeches at the deliberation. A Shengqing was one of them.

The deputy recalled that during the deliberation Xi asked her questions about whether local people use latrines or flush toilets, what their electrically-heated brick beds look like, and the population, origins and customs of the Tu ethnic people. President Xi also learned about embroidery's contribution to poverty alleviation, the development of the local liquor industry, and the planting of Chinese medicinal herbs, among other issues concerning people's wellbeing. "I deeply felt General Secretary Xi Jinping's care for the people," she said.

"Every 'small matter' in the village is something General Secretary Xi holds dear in his heart," A Shengqing told the Global Times.

"I shared the achievements of poverty alleviation in Qinghai Province through the changes in Banyan Village in my speech," A Shengqing said.

Huzhu Tu Autonomous County, where Banyan Village is located, is the only autonomous county for the Tu ethnic people, one of the 56 ethnic groups in China.

Xi visited Banyan Village, Huzhu Tu Autonomous County, Qinghai Province during an inspection visit, in August 2016. Xi checked the floor plan of a local villager's new home and asked about the construction progress and the hot bed stove, a heated sleeping platform common to north China, according to Xinhua.

"Over the years, Banyan Village underwent a dramatic transformation where residents now have electric heated beds, access to tap water, new relocated houses, hygienic toilets, rooftop solar panels," A Shengqing said, noting that villagers have also developed various industries such as embroidery, liquor distilling, and potato farming.

These industries have lifted local residents' income, with per capita income increasing to 23,813 yuan ($ 3,269) by 2023.

Behind these transformations are the government's continuous efforts to improve people's wellbeing in ethnic minority regions, A Shengqing said.

People at center

Dong Caiyun is a member of the Bao'an ethnic group, which has a population of only about 20,000, according to Xinhua.

At the two sessions in 2019, Dong proposed a new expressway that would boost the development of her county in Northwest China's Gansu. Other deputies lauded her proposal, and Xi, who was present at the meeting, responded by asking the relevant departments to study the proposal, Xinhua reported.

After rounds of research and feasibility studies, construction began. By November 2023, the highway was completed, linking Linxia County, Linxia City, and Jishishan County together.

After a 6.2-magnitude earthquake hit Jishishan, Gansu Province in December, 2023, the highway played a critical role in the rescue efforts.

"This highway embodies the wishes of the people from my hometown for a better life, and I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of my fellow villagers," Dong told the Global Times.

Xi has consistently emphasized the significance of the people, unwaveringly adhering to the principle of "putting people at the center" in his governance approach, according to Xinhua.

China's "journey of modernization is not just about material wealth; it is deeply rooted in a people-centered philosophy. The fruits of Chinese modernization have been transformed into tangible improvements in the quality of life for ordinary citizens," People's Daily reported, quoting Bangladesh's Weekly Blitz.

Under Xi's leadership, China has successfully helped around 100 million people leave absolute poverty behind in less than a decade, winning the battle against absolute poverty in the country with 1.4 billion people. In doing so, the country has achieved the goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects, Xinhua reported.

In China, the average life expectancy of its people has reached 78.2 years, and over 1 billion people are connected to the internet. Furthermore, the country has established the world's largest education system, social security system, and healthcare system.

"Our goal is both inspiring and simple. Ultimately, it is about delivering a better life for the people," Xi said.

SOURCE Global Times
Counterpart Health, MEDITECH, and Suki are using Vertex AI Search for healthcare to improve clinicians' access to information and gain a more comprehensive view on patient health

SUNNYVALE, Calif., March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Google Cloud today announced new generative AI (gen AI) capabilities in Vertex AI Search for healthcare, including a new feature called Visual Q&A that searches tables, charts, and diagrams, and the availability of Gemini 2.0 as one of the models now within the offering. Vertex AI Search for healthcare's new, multimodal search capabilities can help organizations give doctors, nurses, and others a more comprehensive view of patient health.

"We're helping clinicians to work more efficiently with new multimodal capabilities embedded in Vertex AI Search for healthcare," said Aashima Gupta, global director of Healthcare Strategy & Solutions, Google Cloud. "Multimodal analysis processes diverse sources of patient data, like medical images and genetic information, for a more comprehensive understanding and improved decision-making."

Multimodal AI: A comprehensive view of patient health

Multimodal AI refers to technology that is capable of processing and integrating information from diverse sources  such as images, videos, and text. This capability is especially important in healthcare, where nearly 90% of healthcare data is in image form  such as x-rays, scans, or photos. To give healthcare professionals a comprehensive understanding of a patient's health, AI models can combine data from medical images, patient history, genetic information, and more. With these richer data inputs, multimodal AI can help providers in making more accurate diagnoses, designing more personalized treatment plans, and ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Vertex AI Search for healthcare goes multimodal

Vertex AI Search for healthcare is a specialized tool within Google Cloud's Vertex AI platform that helps developers build better assistive technology for searching and retrieving information from complex medical data within health records, medical documents, and other healthcare data sources. Now with Visual Q&A and Gemini 2.0, the search technology has even greater capabilities:

Visual Q&A enables Vertex AI Search for healthcare to receive images such as tables, charts, or diagrams directly as an input  instead of taking the image and first converting it into text. For example, it could receive a diagram of a patient's feet indicating where they have an injury, alongside a checkbox from a form the patient filled out indicating if they are wearing therapeutic shoes, and any other symptoms indicated on the form. Visual Q&A can also analyze medical forms where information is entered into tables  and when this information is a relevant part of a search, it will include it in the findings for the clinician.

enables Vertex AI Search for healthcare to receive images such as tables, charts, or diagrams directly as an input  instead of taking the image and first converting it into text. For example, it could receive a diagram of a patient's feet indicating where they have an injury, alongside a checkbox from a form the patient filled out indicating if they are wearing therapeutic shoes, and any other symptoms indicated on the form. Visual Q&A can also analyze medical forms where information is entered into tables  and when this information is a relevant part of a search, it will include it in the findings for the clinician. Gemini 2.0 helps Vertex AI Search for healthcare deliver faster, more accurate answers. For example, Gemini 2.0 Flash outperforms 1.5 Pro on key benchmarks, at twice the speed . This performance boost accelerates the retrieval and processing of multimodal data, including visual medical content like charts, tables, and images, enabling faster, more informed decision-making.

Counterpart Health

Counterpart Health is an AI-powered physician enablement company focused on advancing value-based care through earlier identification and proactive management of chronic disease. The company's proprietary technology platform, Counterpart Assistant, delivers real-time, patient-specific insights directly within physicians' workflows, ensuring clinical decisions are guided by actionable data that lead to better patient outcomes. Counterpart Health is a subsidiary of Clover Health Investments, Corp.

"Counterpart Health is dedicated to helping clinicians deliver the highest quality of care to their patients," said David Tsay, MD, chief medical officer at Counterpart Health. "The advancements in Vertex AI Search for healthcare provide us with powerful new tools to achieve these goals. Multimodal AI capabilities will enable clinicians to integrate diverse types of clinical data sources, providing a more comprehensive understanding of their patients' health and facilitating personalized care management."

MEDITECH

Global electronic medical record company MEDITECH has developed an AI-powered search and summarization capability in its Expanse EHR to enable care teams to find the information they need using Google's familiar search function and gen AI. The new features announced today will further advance its EHR capabilities.

"MEDITECH's collaboration with Google Cloud will bring the latest advancements in multimodal AI to our Expanse EHR," said Cathy Turner, Chief Marketing and Nursing Executive, MEDITECH. "Building on our successful work with Google Cloud in developing AI-powered search and summarization, these advancements will further enhance our ability to deliver cutting-edge tools that empower clinicians and improve workflows."

Suki

Suki recently announced its Suki Assistant now includes patient summarization and clinical Q&A for clinicians, built on Google Cloud technology. These features help users quickly and easily find information needed to make care decisions, freeing up clinicians so they can focus on their patients.

"Google Cloud is continuing to push the boundaries of what's possible with multimodal AI in healthcare," said Punit Soni, founder and CEO of Suki. "The advancements in Vertex AI Search for healthcare complement Suki's mission to make healthcare technology invisible and assistive. By combining Suki's expertise in ambient AI with Google Cloud's powerful multimodal capabilities, we are equipping clinicians with instant access to the critical information they need, enabling them to deliver the best possible patient care."

About Google Cloud

Google Cloud is the new way to the cloud, providing AI, infrastructure, developer, data, security, and collaboration tools built for today and tomorrow. Google Cloud offers a powerful, fully integrated and optimized AI stack with its own planet-scale infrastructure, custom-built chips, generative AI models and development platform, as well as AI-powered applications, to help organizations transform. Customers in more than 200 countries and territories turn to Google Cloud as their trusted technology partner.

SOURCE Google Cloud
Finnish President Alexander Stubb said steps forward had been taken at the London summit and said Finland and Norway were involved in supporting the preparation of a peace plan being developed jointly by Ukraine, Britain and France.

"At this stage, Ukraine, Britain and France will take responsibility for developing a peace plan," Stubb told Finnish broadcaster Yle.

However, he did not specify how and who from Finland would participate in the planning.

"We will have negotiations with Ukraine in the coming days," the Finnish president said.

The issue of the share of non-EU countries was also raised at the meeting. "We have stressed from many sides that the negotiations and preparations should include not only the EU, but also the UK, Norway and Turkey, which were also present at this meeting," Stubb said.

According to the Finnish President, the meeting put Europe back on track.

The aim of all participants was to end the war, while supporting Ukraine militarily, politically and economically. However, the meeting did not make new commitments to the introduction of European troops into Ukraine. "The UK and France are committed to some presence of troops in Ukraine. But those countries that share a border with Russia and are responsible for protecting NATO on that border understand that their contributions are different," Stubb said.

The head of the Finnish state also mentioned the three-phase model that Finland had previously put forward, according to which Ukraine is first supported and pressure on the Russian Federation is increased.

The Finnish President also noted that the organisers believe it is necessary to achieve progress in using Russia's frozen assets.

He expressed his belief that progress must be made in the agreement between Ukraine and the United States on mineral resources. According to Stubb, it was clear at the meeting that Europe needs the United States and the security guarantees it offers.
PHILADELPHIA, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At just 17, Max Kopp is making waves in wearable medical technology. A Germantown Academy junior, Max has developed a polarized light optical sensor that could transform real-time glucose monitoring, offering a non-invasive solution for diabetes patients.

Junior Max Kopp Shines at National Science Competition The Yau Science Award is one of the most prestigious and rigorous science competitions for high school students, with over 500 projects this year. Only 34 projects advanced to the 2024 North American semifinals across six categories, and GAs own Max Kopp 26 placed third in the physics category! www.germantownacademy.net

His breakthrough research has earned him top honors at the 62nd National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) and national recognition in physics at the S.-T. Yau High School Science Award (North America). His work has also attracted attention from NASA and leading universities, reinforcing his potential as a future innovator in wearable sensor technology.

Max's findings have been published in Emerging Worldwide Academy (EWA) and ResearchGate, further amplifying his impact in the scientific community. Germantown Academy has highlighted his achievements as a testament to national innovation and breakthrough research.

Looking ahead, Max plans to advance his research at a world-class institution, collaborating with experts in wearable biosensors and nanomaterials to refine his technology for real-world applications. His ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and commercial impact, translating his research into next-generation non-invasive health monitoring solutions.

Bridging the gap between scientific discovery and commercial impact by launching a startup focused on non-invasive health monitoring solutionsa vision that Crown Wealth LLC proudly endorses.

Crown Wealth LLC: Investing in the Future of Innovation

Crown Wealth LLC believes in identifying and nurturing exceptional talent. By encouraging young visionaries like Max, the company strengthens its mission to support pioneers in science, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Related Articles

SOURCE Crown Wealth LLC
In two engaging discussions, HONOR sheds light on the envisioned future that the HONOR ALPHA PLAN will achieve

BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- At MWC Barcelona 2025, global technology brand HONOR participated in two insightful discussions, the Connect X Fireside Chat and the AI+ panel discussion, joining representatives from industry leading partners to share insights into the connected intelligent future.

James Li, CEO of HONOR

Among the numerous topics HONOR and its partners discussed, the common theme was clear: The need for open collaboration to address the challenges and opportunities brought by AI technology is greater than ever before. This is echoed by the recently unveiled HONOR ALPHA PLAN. In executing the new corporate strategy, HONOR will work together with partners to maximize human potential to embrace an intelligent world.

"As we move into the physical AI era, we need to open our industry boundaries and co-create a new paradigm for the AI ecosystem. This can be done by opening the industry's AI capabilities to provide a platform for a wider range of devices, enabling seamless collaboration across different operating systems, and building a value-sharing ecosystem," said James Li, CEO of HONOR during the keynote announcing the HONOR ALPHA PLAN. This is why all of us need to work together to maximize human potential to embrace an intelligent world."

Building Intelligent Ecosystems Beyond Raw Connectivity

During the fireside chat, the central theme of the discussion was the evolution beyond raw connectivity to create intelligent ecosystems that proactively address user needs. HONOR shared a vision where technology anticipates and simplifies daily tasks, sharing examples such as smartphones seamlessly connecting to vehicles and homes, and wearables providing personalized health insights. This vision is brought to life through the HONOR ALPHA PLAN, underscoring the company's commitment to delivering innovations with human-centric design that combine cutting-edge technology, transforming productivity, society, and culture like never before.

Driving AI Connectivity and Innovation Through Collaboration

The fireside chat also highlighted the critical role of industry collaboration in driving innovation and ensuring interoperability. Recognizing the need for collaboration in standards setting, HONOR has consistently promoted open collaboration with key industry leaders to develop unified AI connectivity standards and solutions.

As AI technology evolves, ushering in the physical AI era and beyond, a united effort to co-create an open, intelligent ecosystem will become increasingly important as more industry players navigate the complexities of the evolving technological landscape.

Maintaining a Strong Emphasis on On-device Technology

At the AI+ panel discussion, HONOR shared insights into the balance between on-device and cloud-based AI, reiterating the importance of clearly distinguishing the roles. Using the world's first GUI-based mobile AI agent, the all-ecosystem exchange technology and AiMAGE as examples  all featured at the recent HONOR keynote address - HONOR provided tangible evidence of how it has been prioritizing user privacy with on-device processes, while smartly leveraging the cloud for its vast computing resources without compromising on data security.

HONOR's stance on prioritizing user privacy was further reinforced with the recently published Privacy Protection White Paper, which was referenced during the panel discussion. The white paper details five principles that the company will adhere to as it protects user data: data minimization; sensitive data on-device protection; on-device processing first; data desensitization and encryption before uploading to cloud; and data deletion after use.

HONOR also reiterated the importance of opening up boundaries for the intelligent future, calling on industry partners to unite together. The company will remain steadfast in executing the HONOR ALPHA PLAN, working together with industry partners in open collaboration.

SOURCE HONOR
Illuminating a three-step roadmap underpinned by openness and collaboration

BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Global technology brand HONOR today announced the HONOR ALPHA PLAN, a new corporate strategy to transform HONOR from a smartphone maker to a global leading AI device ecosystem company. The visionary three-step plan details the bold steps HONOR will take to usher in the new intelligent world, and calls on the industry to co-create an open, value-sharing ecosystem that maximizes human potential, ultimately benefiting all mankind.

"It is clear that the AI revolution will reshape the paradigm of the device industry - completely transforming our productivity, our society, and even our culture more than ever before," said James Li, CEO of HONOR. "I am calling on all of us to unite together to address the challenges  as well as the many opportunities  of AI technology. I also call on the industry to be truly open so that we can fully embrace this exciting AI future. Let's do it together."

The designation HONOR ALPHA PLAN is chosen for its unique symbolic meaning. Alpha, as the first letter in the Greek alphabet, symbolizes HONOR's relentless pursuit of technological excellence. Additionally, the Chinese word for humans () can be found where the stroke connects in the lowercase letter "," echoing HONOR's commitment to human-centric innovation. The East-meets-West symbolism perfectly encapsulates HONOR's global vision and ambition to create value for consumers worldwide.

THE HONOR ALPHA PLAN comprises three steps: The first step begins with the development of an intelligent phone. HONOR will work with partners to open technology boundaries to co-create a new paradigm for AI devices in the agentic AI era. Next, HONOR will open industry boundaries and co-create a new paradigm for AI ecosystem in the physical AI era. Finally, in the AGI era, HONOR will open human potential boundaries and co-create a new paradigm for civilization.

The envisioned intelligent phone that is central to the first step will embed human-centric AI that is purpose-built to maximize human potential, including the leading AI technology HONOR showcased during the keynote address.

MWC Booth Details

Between March 3-6, visitors of MWC Barcelona 2025 may visit the HONOR booth located at Stand 3H10 in Hall 3, Fira Gran Via, to check out the latest innovations from HONOR and its partners.

For more information please visit: www.honor.com/global/events/honor-mwc/

SOURCE HONOR
NEW YORK, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Eldorado Gold Corporation ("Eldorado" or the "Company") (NYSE: EGO). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Eldorado and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On February 5, 2025, Eldorado issued a press release "provid[ing] an update on the construction progress at its copper-gold Skouries Project ('Skouries' or the 'Project'), detailed 2025 production and cost guidance, and three-year production outlook." Eldorado disclosed that "labour market tightness in Greece, particularly pronounced in construction, has continued to limit the availability of key construction personnel at Skouries, resulting in a slower ramp-up of the workforce and delayed progress in certain areas of the Project" and that "[f]irst production at Skouries is now expected in the first quarter of 2026, followed by commercial production expected in mid-2026." Eldorado also advised that "[t]he revised Project capital cost estimate incorporates an increase of approximately $143 million or 15.5% over prior capital cost estimates, to a total of approximately $1.06 billion" and that "the Company expects to complete additional pre-commercial production mining and has accelerated the purchase of higher capacity mobile mining equipment (originally expected to be purchased post commercial production), resulting in $154 million of accelerated operational capital prior to commercial production."

On this news, Eldorado's stock price fell $1.78 per share, or 11.27%, to close at $14.01 per share on February 6, 2025.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Danielle Peyton

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

646-581-9980 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
The most popular keyword at MWC 2025 was AI. AI became the biggest highlight at MWC this year in many ways, such as the deep integration of AI with hardware, semiconductors, and mobile communications, the applications of AI in terminals, and the development from technological innovation to industry innovation and ecological innovation.

Meizu is back to the global market with "3 Firsts in China"

At the exhibition, the Mblu22 series and Note22 series in Meizu's overseas new product matrix were exposed for the first time. Also using the Flyme system, these overseas versions of smartphones are expected to be released in April this year and are planned to be sold in Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, Central Asia, Europe, and other countries and regions. The well-known Meizu 21, Meizu 21 PRO, Lucky08, and other product series were also displayed in the exhibition area.

Leading the industry in the layout of All in AI, the first in the industry to access DeepSeek AI capabilities

Just last month, Flyme AIOS officially completed the integration of the DeepSeek-R1 large model, and the Meizu 21 series and Lucky 08 were the first to be supported. StarV smart glasses and other AI ecosystem products were also supported one after another.

PANDAER, Meizu's trendy technology brand, also brought a variety of trendy products to the exhibition. Their product design of trendy IP combined with technology won praise from many overseas audiences.

StarV Air2 is the No.1 seller in the Q1 after launching

StarV Air2 smart glasses were the most eye-catching technology products in the venue due to their simultaneous interpretation, simultaneous transcription, and teleprompter functions, attracting users on site to try them. At present, the StarV series products have entered the first echelon of smart glasses in the world. StarV Air2 smart glasses have achieved a market share of 41.5% in the first quarter after being launched, ranking first in sales.

As smart glasses supported by AI models launched in cooperation with China Mobile and China Unicom, StarV series products were exhibited at the booths of China Mobile and China Unicom.

Flyme Auto is No.1 in Adding New Consumers, Synchronizes with Geely to Go Overseas

Flyme Auto is currently the smoothest and fastest-growing smart cockpit operating system, and has been ranking first in the number of new users for four consecutive months. In January 2025, more than 132,000 car models supported by Flyme Auto were sold in a single month, ranking first. At present, Flyme Auto has been accessed by 22 car models of Geely, LYNK & CO, Galaxy, and other brands. It is one of the smart cockpit operating systems supporting the largest number of car models on the market, and serves more than 500,000 car owners around the world by bringing them a new cross-terminal third-place smart experience.

The development from technological innovation to AI ecosystem innovation and the seamless connection of multi-terminal and full-scenario AI were the achievements presented by Meizu at this MWC. After experiencing Meizu's AI ecosystem products, the media and audiences on site also frequently praised Meizu's integrated AI ecosystem experience.

Meizu's globalization strategy has accelerated, with AI enhancing its global competitiveness

Since its launch in 2024, Meizu's globalization strategy has made significant progress. Meizu has joined hands with Geely to hold launch events in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Jakarta, the Philippines, and other countries and regions. Meizu's technology products have been sold in more than 30 countries and regions in Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, Central Asia, and Europe, and cars equipped with Flyme Auto have been exported to the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Asia-Pacific and other regions. Meizu's overseas ecosystem with a true integration of people, cars, and homes has gained a certain scale.

Globalization and All in AI Meizu's core strategies. In 2025, Meizu will begin to accelerate its expansion into overseas markets, increase investment in overseas markets, and launch more products and services that meet the needs of local consumers to enhance its global competitiveness. At the same time, with Flyme AIOS as the base, Meizu will build a global smart travel technology ecosystem based on the three core areas of smartphones, smart glasses, and smart car scenarios.

Worth mentioning is that Meizu is the smartphone brand of DreamSmart Group, which carries AI eco-products in three product areas, which are smartphones, XR and smart cars. With deep technological expertise in multiple industries, DreamSmart is recognized as a leader in smart ecosystems.

At MWC 2025, Meizu showcased the latest achievements in China's science and technology to the world, attracting high attention and extensive recognition from overseas users and media. In the future, Meizu will continue to pursue technological innovation to provide global consumers with more excellent products beyond imagination.

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NEW YORK, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces the filing of a class action lawsuit on behalf of purchasers of securities of Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK) between February 3, 2022 and February 3, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"). A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 14, 2025.

So what: If you purchased Merck securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

What to do next: To join the Merck class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=34975 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 14, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Details of the case: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants provided investors with material information concerning Merck's expected revenue of $11 billion from sales of Gardasil by 2030. Defendants' statements included, among other things, confidence in Merck's purported ability to utilize successful consumer activation and education efforts on the benefits of Gardasil in order to drive demand and capitalize on eligible populations for vaccination, resulting in confidently optimistic reports and forecasts of Gardasil's growth in China. Defendants provided these overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Gardasil's demand in China; notably, that Merck lacked visibility into demand for Gardasil in China among eligible and otherwise targeted populations, resulting in the inflated inventory of its distributor, Zhifei. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Merck class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=34975 call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Fibocom (Stock code:300638), a global leading provider of AIoT solutions and wireless communication modules, introduces the FWA AI SkyEngine, a suite of four innovative solutions designed to drive the intelligent transformation of 5G FWA terminals. With powerful computing capabilities and integrated AI models, 5G FWA becomes the central AI-driven hub for smart homes and businesses, seamlessly connecting and enhancing the user experience.

To address the increasing demand from carriers and FWA terminal customers for "FWA + AI" solutions, the Fibocom FWA AI SkyEngine suite features the Modem AI SDK, Smart Home SDK, Gen AI SDK, and the FIBO xOS Platformdelivering an efficient, scalable, and user-friendly platform for seamless AI integration in FWA networks.

Modem AI SDK

Fibocom has partnered with leading global chip manufacturers to integrate AI models directly into 5G processors. By leveraging deep learning algorithms, this collaboration enables intelligent network fault detection, automatic recovery, enhanced wireless performance, and customizable AI features, providing FWA terminal customers and operators with a superior, AI-driven experience.

Smart Home SDK

Fibocom's FWA AI SkyEngine supports popular smart home platforms such as Matter and integrates with a wide range of peripheral devices to help FWA terminals accurately perceive environmental changes. Through deep learning models and algorithms, the FWA AI SkyEngine enables personalized smart homes, smart healthcare, and intelligent security experiences.

At MWC 2025, Fibocom presents a groundbreaking 5G AI CPE-based smart home monitoring solution. Unlike traditional smart monitoring systems that deploy AI directly onto cameras, this innovative approach integrates AI detection algorithms within the 5G CPE. By harnessing the CPU power of the 5G CPE, the solution enables advanced smart home features such as AI-driven sound detection, human shape tracking, virtual fence creation, face mask recognition, and child development tracking. This evolution transforms the 5G CPE from a basic network access device into a versatile smart home security hub.

Gen-AI SDK

Enabling global carriers to offer token subscriptions and SDK services to FWA users, the FWA AI SkyEngine is compatible with prominent large-scale AI models such as ChatGPT and DeepSeek. This paves the way for new business models in AI-powered FWA services. Additionally, the FWA AI SkyEngine facilitates the evolution of FWA terminals into "wireless communication-powered smart computing" devices, unlocking new productivity tools and creating innovative commercial opportunities.

FIBO xOS Platform

The FWA AI SkyEngine supports efficient development across multi-chip platforms and is compatible with OpenLinux, RDK-B, Yocto, Prpl OS, and OpenSync, meeting the customized development needs of FWA terminal customers.

Infusing new vitality into the 5G FWA industry, the FWA AI SkyEngine accelerates the commercialization of AI capabilities for FWA customers. As AI technology evolves, the FWA AI SkyEngine will position FWA as the central hub for smart homes and businesses, driving the AI transformation of a growing range of devices.

Chiawei Tsai, General Manager of Luxshare Taiwan stated

We are thrilled to partner with Fibocom to showcase a 5G AI CPE-based smart home monitoring solution. By integrating AI detection algorithms into the 5G CPE and leveraging its CPU power, we enable edge computing for local data processing, reducing cloud reliance. This enhances real-time responses, protects user privacy, and boosts trust in smart home systems. The 5G CPE supports diverse scenarios, from AI cry detection and face obfuscation in home settings to human tracking and virtual fencing in outdoor areas. With remote upgrades and continuous optimization, the 5G CPE evolves into a multifunctional smart home security hub.

Askey Computer Corp. states:

"We are delighted to have closely collaborated with Fibocom over the past years to develop 5G FWA Wi-Fi 7 router products and successfully get tender awards from global well-known telecom operators. Moving forward, we aim to further enhance the intelligence of routers through advanced AI integration, creating higher product value and improving the user experience of FWA services. Ultimately, this will help telecom operators retain customers and increase the average revenue per user (ARPU)."

Joe Barrett, President of the Global Mobile Suppliers Association, said: "There can be little doubt that 5G FWA has hit the mainstream. GSA is now tracking over 344 operators that have announced 5G launches or soft launches, of which 169 are marketing residential or business 5G FWA broadband services. That's an increase of more than 300% in the last three years. This operator momentum is driving not only growth in vendor shipments of 5G-enabled CPE devices, but we also see operators and vendors continue to work hand-in-hand on innovations such as 5G standalone, 5G RedCap, millimeter-wave and flexible self-install outdoor CPEs. Underpinning much of this is adoption across both the network and devices of AI technologies, and we're delighted to see GSA Associates such as Fibocom lead the way in supporting the continued growth of 5G fixed wireless access services globally."



Simon Tao, VP of MBB Product Management Dept., Head of MBB BU at Fibocom. added:

"We are excited to introduce the AI-enhanced FWA AI SkyEngine at MWC 2025, redefining the role of FWA. It's no longer just a high-speed connectivity hub for homes and businesses; it has evolved into the AI-powered brain and decision-making center that drives intelligence across every scenario. Moving forward, Fibocom will continue to deepen the integration of 5G FWA with AI, collaborating with global operators and FWA terminal customers to establish 5G FWA as the cornerstone of the intelligent, connected world."

Welcome to Fibocom's booth #5I33 at Mobile World Congress. Join us in advancing connectivity for an intelligent future.

SOURCE Fibocom Wireless Inc
Bringing six authentic, home-cooked dishes from Lebanese moms to top Lebanese restaurants in the UAE and KSA

50% of the sales from each order in the UAE will be donated to support affected Lebanese families through a partnership with Dubai Cares

DUBAI, UAE, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Puck announced today the launch of 'Recipe for Change', a Ramadan initiative aimed at empowering Lebanese women while celebrating Lebanon's rich culinary heritage. In collaboration with Dubai Cares and renowned food critic Anthony Rahayel, the initiative introduces six traditional home-cooked dishes, crafted by Lebanese women, to leading Lebanese restaurants across the UAE and KSA. As part of this initiative, 50% of the proceeds from each dish sold in the UAE will be donated to support affected Lebanese families, reinforcing Puck's commitment to being a true ally to mothers in the region by supporting women's well-being and driving meaningful change in society.

Puck Launches Recipe for Change this Ramadan

In the wake of the conflict in Lebanon at the end of 2024, many familiesparticularly women and childrenhave faced immense hardship, with displacement and loss of homes disrupting their lives. Through 'Recipe for Change', Puck is offering these women a platform to share their culinary creations while also supporting affected Lebanese families. For the second year in a row, Puck partnered with Rahayel to find and select six women to participate in this life-changing initiative.

From March 1 until March 31, 2025, Lebanese diaspora and lovers of Lebanese cuisine now have an opportunity to make a tangible differencesimply by dining in or ordering online for Iftar, Suhoor or any meal of the day at Abdul Wahab, Al Safadi, Kaak Al Manara, Manarit Beirut, Habib Beirut, Mosaic and Karam Beirut branches across the UAE.

Mahitab Hamed, Marketing Vice President at Arla Foods, said: "As a brand with purpose at its core, Puck is committed to uplifting communities and championing women. Recipe for Change is a testament to this mission, honouring the culinary traditions of remarkable Lebanese mothers supporting affected Lebanese families."

The six authentic dishes featured in the campaign include Zenkol, Mouhalibiya, Macaroni bi Creme, Spinach and Cheese Fatayer, Kebbet Batata with Cheese, and Cheese Maamoul. These recipes have been lovingly shared by the talented women behind them: Ibtihaj, Fidaa, Viviane, Nada, Amani, and Feryal. Through this initiative, their voices and culinary legacies are given the opportunity to be celebrated and shared with the world. The collaboration with Anthony Rahayel, whose passion for Lebanese food and culture, helped connect these women to renowned restaurants across the UAE, will also see Awani Restaurant in KSA adding these special dishes to their menu, ensuring the stories reach a wider audience beyond the UAE.

As Ramadan approaches, Puck invites everyone to join in the 'Recipe for Change' initiative. Every dish ordered is more than just a mealit's a chance to sustain a family and make a lasting impact on the rebuilding of Lebanon.

About Puck

Puck is a brand that offers a wide range of dairy products across the Middle East. A perennial favourite in the region for its cream cheese, Puck has established itself as a passionate supporter of mumsthe everyday chefs who work wonders in the kitchen to serve delicious meals 3 times a day, 365 days a year. In addition to its trusted and natural product range, which also includes mozzarella, labneh, and several creams, Puck celebrates mums through various initiatives, giving them a public platform to highlight their unique talents.

For more information about Puck, visit https://www.puckarabia.com/en/.

For more information about 'Recipe for Change' initiative, visit https://www.puckarabia.com/en/campaigns/recipe-for-change/.

About Arla

Arla Foods is a dairy cooperative, annually collecting ~14 bn kg of milk from our farmer owners making Arla the world's 6th largest dairy company. Our global brands include Arla, Lurpak and Puck. It is our vision to create the future of dairy, to bring healthy and sustainable dairy products to people across the world and to lead the transition towards sustainable dairy farming and production.

Link to company website: https://www.arla.com/sustainability/

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2629653/Recipe_for_Change.jpg

SOURCE Puck
NEW YORK, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces it is investigating potential breaches of fiduciary duties by the directors and officers of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE: UNH) in connection with a report of an investigation by the United States Department of Justice into UnitedHealth's billing practices.

If you currently own shares of UnitedHealth stock, please visit the firm's website at https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=25195 for more information. You may also contact Phillip Kim of Rosen Law Firm toll free at 866-767-3653 or via email at [email protected].

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

[email protected]

www.rosenlegal.com

SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A.
BARCELONA, Spain and ISTANBUL, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TECNO, an AI-driven technology brand, is teaming up with Koc University in Turkiye, a leading research university located at the intersection of Europe and Asia, to explore the distinctive aesthetic preferences of Turkish consumers in smartphone photography.

This partnership, which extends TECNO's global research in multi-skin tone imaging technology, aims to enhance its Universal Tone technology and ensures a more customized and culturally attuned imaging experience that aligns with Turkish consumers' preferences.

Turkish KOLs experienced TECNO Universal Tone technology

Fanyi Zhou, Director of the Image Quality Testing & Assessment Department at TECNO Image Quality Testing lab, stated, "As a distinguished leader in smartphone imaging, we believe this collaboration will enable us to incorporate cutting-edge research insights into our technology. This allows us to customize our camera technology to provide stunning, true-to-life images that celebrate the rich diversity of beauty in Turkiye while staying authentic to individual identities."

Tailoring Imaging Technology for Turkish consumers

Led by Associate Professor Aykut Coskun, an internationally renowned design researcher and the director of the KUAR research center, the project merges technology with user-centered design. With a specific focus on understanding Turkish consumers' aesthetic sensibilities and skin tone preferences, the study utilizing surveys, structured interviews, and field studies, the study will investigate Turkish consumers' portrait photography habits and preferences, the behaviors and decisions associated with typical photo taking, editing, and posting experience, problems they encountered during this process, and their portrait photography taking experience with TECNO smartphones.

Prof. Coskun expressed his enthusiasm and commented, "This partnership is an exciting opportunity to bridge academic research with real-world technological innovation. Enabling the exploration and integration of user insights into development efforts in smartphone photography, it has the potential to redefine this process from a user-centered lens."

Delivering Fully Enhanced and Inclusive Portraits by AI-driven Universal Tone

Results from the studies will play a pivotal role in enhancing TECNO Universal Tone technology. Unveiled in 2023, Universal Tone is a comprehensive multi-skin tone imaging solution that has been continuously evolving and will be integrated into the latest CAMON 40 series.

This technology incorporates three key engines: The Multi-Skin Tone Restoration Engine, the Local Tuning Engine, and the AI-Powered Computational Portrait Engine. The Local-Tuning Engine adapts imaging solutions to diverse environmental factors, including lighting conditions, geomorphological landscapes, and color temperatures, to deliver outputs harmonized with local aesthetics. Meanwhile, the AI-Powered Computational Portrait Engine utilizes TECNO's self-developed algorithms to create personalized portrait imaging experiences, aligning with cultural and aesthetic preferences unique to each region. This partnership will provide users worldwide with imaging experiences that align with their preferences and local aesthetics.

TECNO's journey is marked by strategic partnerships with esteemed academic institutions, including the University of Leeds in the UK, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, and Dar Al-Hekma University in Saudi Arabia. As part of TECNO's "Glocalization" strategy, these partnerships highlight the brand's commitment to adapting global innovations to meet the unique demands of local markets. These efforts have been crucial in refining TECNO's technology, enabling it to accurately depict a spectrum of skin colors and satisfy the aesthetic preferences of various regions.

With a mission to ensure that every consumer of diverse skin tone in emerging markets is accurately represented in our imagery, TECNO has been continuously enhancing imaging technologies and paving the way for a future, where every individual's beauty is captured with precision and respect.

About TECNO:

TECNO is an innovative, AI-driven technology brand with a presence in over 70 markets across five continents. Committed to transforming the digital experience in global emerging markets, TECNO relentlessly pursues the perfect integration of contemporary aesthetic design with the latest technologies and artificial intelligence. Today, TECNO offers a comprehensive ecosystem of AI-powered products, including smartphones, smart wearables, laptops, tablets, smart gaming devices, the HiOS operating system, and smart home products. Guided by its brand essence of "Stop At Nothing," TECNO continues to pioneer the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and AI-driven experiences for forward-looking individuals, inspiring them to never stop pursuing their best selves and brightest futures. For more information, please visit TECNO's official site: www.tecno-mobile.com.

About Koc University:

Founded in 1993 in Istanbul, Koc University is a non-profit research university supported by the resources of the internationally renowned Vehbi Koc Foundation. Since its establishment, Koc University has emerged as a center of global excellence in science and education and is uniquely positioned to explore the overlaps of Medicine, Engineering, Science, Social Sciences and Administrative Sciences to further pursue basic and applied research and attract the best students and faculty members. Through seven colleges and four graduate schools, Koc University offers 22 undergraduate, 44 masters and 30 PhD programs in English. With a student body of 9,000, Koc University has more than 20,000 alumni.

SOURCE TECNO
CDU leader Friedrich Merz and candidate for German chancellor considers the scandal between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a deliberate escalation by the US, Tegesschau.de reported on Monday.

Merz said he had re-watched the scene several times. "In my opinion, this meeting in the Oval Office was not a spontaneous reaction to Zelenskyy's words, but an obviously provoked escalation. I was somewhat surprised by the tone of the conversation - it did not bring any benefit," he said after consultations of CDU committees in Berlin.

According to Bild, Merz said that such rhetoric fits into the general line of behavior of the new US administration in recent months.

"What we have just seen in Washington has a certain continuity with a number of events in the last few weeks, including the appearance of the American delegation in Munich at the security conference," Merz added.
China is flourishing in the industry, boasting more than 34,000 medical device companies and leading advancements in AI technologies.

SHANGHAI, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The 91st China International Medical Equipment Fair (CMEF), the world's premier medical device exhibition, is set to take place from April 8-11 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai. The event will showcase industry innovations across 350,000 square meters of exhibition space, featuring 5,000 global brands and anticipating 200,000+ visitors from more than 150 countries and regions.

Since its launch in 1979, the biannual CMEF has evolved into the global medical technology industry's most comprehensive platform, integrating technological innovation, product launches, business networking, brand promotion, academic exchange, and trend analysis. The 91 edition will feature industry leaders including United Imaging, GE Healthcare, Mindray, Philips, Shinva, Yuwell, and China National Medical Device, presenting tens of thousands of products alongside global premieres, underscoring China's growing influence in medical technology innovation.

China's medical device industry has solidified its position as a global leader, boasting over 34,000 companies and a vast portfolio of 301,639 valid medical device registrations and filings as of June 2023. Domestic products dominate the market, representing 91.22% (275,158) of total registrations, while imported products account for 264,871. The sector's rapid expansion is enabled by demographic shifts, rising incomes, growing health consciousness, and strong government support.

From 2014 to 2024, the National Medical Products Administration greenlit 315 innovative medical devices, with 272 originating from domestic manufacturers and 43 from 24 international companies across six countries.

Standout innovations include:

AI-Powered Assistants for Healthcare Revolution: Leveraging technologies like speech recognition, large medical text models, and embodied intelligence, uAI Avataran intelligent assistantcan interact with doctors, assist in equipment operation, and retrieve critical information. By enhancing efficiency and accuracy, it is redefining the future of medical practice.

New Option for Obesity Treatment: The Gastric Bypass Stent System, comprising a delivery and retrieval system, is endoscopically placed in the duodenum and upper jejunum. It mimics the effects of gastric bypass surgery without altering the gastrointestinal anatomy, reducing nutrient absorption and aiding weight loss.

Advanced Material for Hip Replacement: Zirconia ceramic hip prosthesis components, produced using a high-low temperature cyclic sintering technique, reduce sintering temperatures while enhancing grain boundary diffusion.

Cutting-Edge Technology for Remote Surgery: The emerging multi-port endoscopic surgical robot has demonstrated significant advancements. It consists of a surgeon's console, a patient-side cart, and a 3DHD vision system. Clinical trials have proven its capability to perform complex level-4 surgeries.

As the world's most comprehensive medical technology platform, CMEF brings together the latest advancements across the entire industry chain, including AI, medical robotics, and big data applications. The CMEF Distributor Alliance Club will launch One-on-One Precision Matchmaking sessions, enabling seamless connections between distributors and manufacturers. The main stage, WeTalk Global Stage and ICMD Tech Corner will host a series of activities, offering unparalleled insights into global market trends and technological integration.

For pre-registration, please visit: https://reg.reed-sinopharm.com/pc/#/login?id=be8dbb6416714b7fb1ac7b330560f2ca&channelUuid=b2cbd836c501451d910b25037b1d910a

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2631429/The_91st_CMEF_to_Unveil_Latest_Trends_in_Medical_Device_Industry.jpg
GURUGRAM, India, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- VVDN Technologies, a global provider of Software, Product Engineering and Electronics Manufacturing services and Solution, has announced a collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to introduce its next-generation Wi-Fi 7 Access Point Reference Design. Powered by the Qualcomm Dragonwing NPro A7 Platform, this AI-driven reference design is built for customizable deployments.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in wireless connectivity. It aims to enhance user experiences with superior performance and intelligence while providing a cost-effective solution for customers seeking the best AI and Wi-Fi experience at an affordable price.

The reference design includes a carrier-grade tri-band gateway and a carrier-grade dual-band extender. These solutions are optimized to intelligently manage network traffic, minimize latency, and elevate user experiences across multiple devices.

The reference design is the culmination of collaboration between VVDN and Qualcomm Technologies and is crucial for India's rapidly evolving digital infrastructure, offering unmatched speed, intelligence, and reliability. It represents a significant leap forward in wireless networking, setting new benchmarks for AI-driven performance, enterprise-grade scalability, and cost-effective deployment.

Ready for mass manufacturing by March 2025, the AI-powered Wi-Fi 7 Access Points will be on display at MWC Barcelona 2025. Visit VVDN Technologies at Hall 2 Booth 2C78 at MWC Barcelona for the launch of this Access Point.

VVDN's AI-driven Wi-Fi 7 Access Points, powered by the Dragonwing NPro A7 Platform, are designed for showcasing the advanced capabilities of the platform. They integrate Qualcomm Technologies' state-of-the-art technologies, including the platform's Qualcomm Networking AI Engine designed for Wi-Fi connectivity and networking optimization. These access points are designed to enhance network efficiency, adapt dynamically to varying usage patterns, and ensure seamless connectivity in diverse environments. This intelligent management capability not only boosts performance but also supports scalability, catering to the evolving demands of smart homes, enterprises, and public spaces.

Puneet Agarwal, CEO, VVDN Technologies: "At VVDN Technologies, we are proud to collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies to pioneer the next generation of wireless connectivity solutions. The new innovative AI based Wi-Fi 7 Access Point not only sets new benchmarks in performance but also maintains cost-effectiveness comparable to Wi-Fi 6, ensuring wider accessibility without compromising on quality."

Savi Soin, SVP & President, Qualcomm India said, "Qualcomm Technologies is proud to collaborate with VVDN Technologies to introduce a line of access points, powered by our Dragonwing Networking platforms. These AI-powered Wi-Fi 7 Access Point Reference Designs are designed to enhance network efficiency while ensuring affordability for businesses, OEMs, and service providers."

Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm and Qualcomm Dragonwing are trademarks or registered trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated.

About VVDN:

Founded in 2007, VVDN is a technology innovation company focusing primarily on Software Services, Product Engineering and Manufacturing Services. VVDN's India HQ is located at Gurgaon, India, and its North America HQ is located in Fremont, CA, USA. VVDN has a presence across the world with offices in US, Canada, Europe, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan. With 11 advanced R&D Centres, VVDN is fully equipped to design, develop & test the complete hardware, mechanical & software required for a complete product or solution. VVDN's 7 Manufacturing facilities are located at Manesar, Gurgaon, and Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, India, which includes in-house best-in-class SMT Factory, Mold & Tooling Factory, Injection Molding, Die Casting, Powder Coating, Sheet Metal, Product Assembly Factory, and Product Certifications labs. Company offers a comprehensive suite of services from Hardware to Mechanical, Embedded Software to Cloud & Apps, Testing & Validation to Automation as well as Mass Manufacturing to its global customers.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1531036/3360584/VVDN_Technologies_Logo.jpg

SOURCE VVDN Technologies
A roundup of the most newsworthy tech announcements from PR Newswire this week, including an MWC 2025 preview, the upcoming return of NASA's Crew-9 and an Immersive "Audio-Driven Campsite" Experience.

NEW YORK, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With thousands of press releases published each week, it can be difficult to keep up with everything on PR Newswire. To help tech journalists and consumers stay on top of the week's most newsworthy and popular releases, here's a recap of some major stories from the week that shouldn't be missed.

The list below includes the headline (with a link to the full text) and an excerpt from each story. Click on the press release headlines to access accompanying multimedia assets that are available for download.

PR Newswire Weekly Technology Press Release Roundup, Feb. 24-28, 2025.

For more news like this, check out all of the latest technology-related releases from PR Newswire.

Do you have a technology press release to distribute? Sign up with PR Newswire to share your story with the audiences who matter most.

Helping Journalists Stay Up to Date on Industry News

These are just a few of the recent press releases that consumers and the media should know about. To be notified of releases relevant to their coverage area, journalists can set up a custom newsfeed with PR Newswire for Journalists.

Once they're signed up, reporters, bloggers, and freelancers have access to the following free features:

Customization: Users can create customized newsfeeds that will deliver relevant news right to their inbox. Newsfeed results can be targeted by keywords, industry, subject, geography, and more.

Users can create customized newsfeeds that will deliver relevant news right to their inbox. Newsfeed results can be targeted by keywords, industry, subject, geography, and more. Photos and Videos: Thousands of multimedia assets are available to download and include in a journalist or blogger's next story.

Thousands of multimedia assets are available to download and include in a journalist or blogger's next story. Subject Matter Experts: Journalists will have access to ProfNet, a database of industry experts to connect with as sources or for quotes in their articles.

Journalists will have access to ProfNet, a database of industry experts to connect with as sources or for quotes in their articles. Related Resources: Our journalist- and blogger-focused blog, Beyond Bylines, features regular media news roundups, writing tips, upcoming events, and more.

About PR Newswire

PR Newswire is the industry's leading press release distribution partner with an unparalleled global reach of more than 440,000 newsrooms, websites, direct feeds, journalists and influencers and is available in more than 170 countries and 40 languages. From our award-winning Content Services offerings, integrated media newsroom and microsite products, Investor Relations suite of services, paid placement and social sharing tools, PR Newswire has a comprehensive catalog of solutions to solve the modern-day challenges PR and communications teams face. For 70 years, PR Newswire has been the preferred destination for brands to share their most important news stories across the world.

For questions, contact the team at [email protected].

SOURCE PR Newswire
BARCELONA, Spain, March 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, will participate in MWC Barcelona 2025 from March 3 to 6 under the theme "Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation". In partnership with industry partners, ZTE will promote the deep integration of AI and connectivity, accelerating intelligent innovation and jointly shaping a future that is highly efficient, intelligent and green.

ZTE to highlight "Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation" at MWC Barcelona 2025, harnessing the power of AI ZTE to highlight "Catalyzing Intelligent Innovation" at MWC Barcelona 2025, harnessing the power of AI

ZTE's booth is located at 3F30, Hall 3, Fira Gran Via, where the company will showcase innovative solutions integrating connectivity and AI across six key thematic areas: Ultra-Efficient Mobile Network, All-Optical World, AI-Inspired Value, Engines of Intelligence, Infinite Future, and Smart Life.

Ultra-Efficient Mobile Network & All-Optical Network: Dual-Track Reconstruction of Network Productivity

In addressing the fundamental network needs of operators, ZTE will demonstrate how to leverage next-generation ultra-efficient mobile networks and all-optical networks to build a modern, future-proof foundational network with efficiency and low carbon emissions.

In the field of mobile network, ZTE continues to lead UBR innovation, launching the industry's first TDD+FDD dual-mode Massive MIMO AAU and 400M OBW ultra-wideband AAU, creating ultra-simplified, highly efficient, and green sites. Targeting indoor and agricultural network scenarios, ZTE unveiled several new solutions to enable comprehensive traffic coverage. Focused on new momentum for 5G-A development, ZTE drives innovation in Air to Ground (ATG) and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) satellite communication, to build the Space-Air-Ground Integrated Network (SAGIN) to achieve ubiquitous connectivity.

By integrating sensing and communication, ZTE empowers the low-altitude economy and water management. Additionally, with the introduction of 5G-A new media solution, ZTE enhances brand-new AR live broadcast experience.

In the field of all-optical network, ZTE is committed to advancing the high-quality development of optical networks. For all-optical homes, ZTE drives revenue growth through Wi-Fi 7, FTTR, and other solutions, reduces operational costs through digital tools, and enhances scene development with AI-driven smart terminals. For all-optical cities, ZTE expands into office, hotel, and campus scenarios through all-optical ToB, boosting customer ARPU. For all-optical infrastructure, ZTE has launched intelligent ODN, Full-Band OTN, and AI-Enhanced IP solutions to build an ultra-simplified, ultra-fast, and highly efficient foundational network.

Looking towards future evolution, ZTE is dedicated to the integrated development of 5G-A and 6G, creating a distributed intelligent network that combines connectivity, sensing, and intelligence to support the ubiquitous AI-driven world of the Internet of Everything. Through key technological innovations and business ecosystem development, ZTE aims to collaboratively build a new high ground for value-driven services.

Full-Stack Intelligent Computing + Industry Innovation: Jointly Building AI-Driven Value Prosperity

ZTE positions intelligent computing as the company's long-term core focus, actively promoting the integration of connectivity and AI innovation. It has launched an all-in-one, end-to-end AI solution to support customers in their digital transformation and seize future market opportunities.

During MWC Barcelona 2025, ZTE will showcase its full-stack intelligent computing infrastructure, including liquid-cooled data centers, intelligent computing servers, general-purpose computing servers, storage, high-speed switches, and the AiCube integrated training and inference unit supporting DeepSeek full-version deployment. This solution is designed to flexibly meet the computing network needs of large data centers, edge data centers, and integrated enterprise deployments across various scenarios. Additionally, ZTE will unveil the industry's first integrated energy storage solution, combining multi-scenario new energy integration with intelligent energy scheduling to enhance energy efficiency.

In addition, ZTE leverages technologies such as heterogeneous convergence and computing-network integration to launch a series of solutions, including AIR RAN and AIR Core, to build end-to-end, AI-native networks that help operators reshape their business models.

Focused on industry innovation, ZTE offers a full-stack AI integrated application solution, covering chips, hardware, software, and integration services. With a focus on achieving optimal application outcomes, ZTE integrates its own capabilities with industry-leading resources to help customers build the most cost-effective AI applications. The Digital Nebula 3.0, featuring the Nebula large model, integrates a complete suite of tools for model training, inference, and application development. This enables industry customers to leverage AI efficiently, quickly, and cost-effectively. At the Nanjing Binjiang Factory, the Nebula industrial large model has accelerated process document generation by 10 times and reduced quality inspection labor costs by 70%. Additionally, ZTE empowers external innovation applications in industries such as manufacturing, transportation, and energy, driving the monetization of AI's value.

Creating a Full-Scenario Intelligent Ecosystem with AI-Driven Interactions and a Full Range of AI Devices

Adhering to the "AI for All" product strategy, ZTE continues to expand its complete portfolio of AI-powered devices in various forms. By positioning AI smartphones as the primary gateway, ZTE is building a new multi-modal interaction experience centered on AI voice.

Within its AI OS framework, ZTE achieves system-level integration of top-tier global AI capabilities. Its multi-modal architecture seamlessly incorporates advanced LLMs such as Google Gemini, ByteDance Doubao, DeepSeek, China Mobile Jiutian, and China Telecom Xingchen. ZTE not only pioneers the integration of the full-scale DeepSeek-R1(featuring 671B parameters) in the flagship smartphone nubia Z70 Ultra, but will also progressively integrates DeepSeek-R1 and other top-tier LLMs across its entire product lineup, making the multiple values of AI accessible to a broader range of consumers.

nubia will unveil the world's first next-generation true full-screen flagship smartphone featuring the industry-leading photography capabilities - nubia Z70 Ultra, alongside the stylish compact foldable smartphone - nubia Flip 2. Embracing the "Born to Win" concept, nubia continues to drive the development of its gaming smartphone for everyone - nubia Neo 3 series. nubia will introduce its first AI earphones - nubia LiveFlip, which interact seamlessly with nubia AI smartphones via its AI OS, further enhancing the AI-powered full-scenario interaction experience.

REDMAGIC, a globally recognized professional gear brand, will launch the world's first 1.5K Wukong true full-screen gaming flagship - REDMAGIC 10 Pro series. The company will debut its first 4K eyewear-free 3D gaming laptop and tablet, as well as a variety of esports accessories, further refining its esports ecosystem and offering comprehensively professional support for gamers.

In addition, ZTE will showcase the world's first 2-in-1 5G+AI Cloud Pad along with a range of multi-form AI devices tailored for home users at the event.

During MWC Barcelona 2025, ZTE will also host several key activities at its exhibition booth, including the "AI for All" ZTE Devices New Products Launch Event, the AIR DNA for Future Network Launch Event, and multiple joint customer release events, presenting a series of innovative products to the industry. Additionally, ZTE will participate in the major thematic forums organized by GSMA, where it will share the latest insights and case studies on key topics such as the evolution of future networks, AI's role in reshaping networks, and how private networks empower various industries. ZTE will collaborate with global operators, industry partners, and thought leaders to accelerate intelligent innovation across industries.

The convergence of AI and ICT technologies is dissolving the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds, ushering in a new era driven by intelligent innovation and seamless connectivity. From March 3 to 6, join ZTE to witness the acceleration of progress and step into the new future of digital intelligence.

For more information, please visit the ZTE booth (3F30, Hall 3, Fira Gran Via) at MWC Barcelona 2025 or explore: https://www.zte.com.cn/global/about/exhibition/mwc25.html

MEDIA INQUIRIES:

ZTE Corporation

Communications

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE ZTE Corporation
Trump: We should spend less time worrying about Putin so that we dont end up like Europe

US President Donald Trump called for paying less attention to the actions of the Russian leadership and concentrating on solving domestic problems, contrasting the US with Europe.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country - So that we dont end up like Europe! Trump wrote on his media platform Truth Social.
Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, commenting on the proposal for a month-long ceasefire in Ukraine put forward by French President Emmanuel Macron, said that discussion of this idea was premature, ANSA reported on Monday.

"I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and especially a long-lasting peace, Italian Foreign Minister said.

"Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it", he added.

At the same time, Tajani said that Europe needs to unite to guarantee Ukraine's independence.

"We are close to Ukraine as Europeans and I believe that we will always be responsible for the security of Ukraine and all of Europe together with NATO", noted Tajani.

Earlier it was reported that Tajani noted the need for a fair peace and stated that there can be no negotiations without Ukraine and without Europe.
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
New Delhi, March 3 : On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Sasangir, a wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat on Monday.

This yearas theme, "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet," emphasises the importance of sustainable funding and community involvement in conservation efforts.

During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate the new veterinary hospital, which is expected to provide critical care for the Asiatic lions. Afterwards, he will return to Singh Sadan to chair a meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), where national wildlife conservation issues will be discussed. The Prime Minister will also interact with women forest staff in Sasan, further promoting gender inclusivity in conservation efforts.

Gujarat, home to the worldas last population of Asiatic lions, has taken significant strides in the protection and preservation of these majestic creatures and the broader biodiversity of the region.

Currently, Asiatic lions roam across 30,000 square kilometres, covering 53 talukas in nine districts of Gujarat. To further strengthen conservation initiatives, the state government has developed a National Referral Centre for Wildlife across 20.24 hectares in Junagadh. Additionally, a high-tech wildlife monitoring centre and a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital in Sasan have been established to provide advanced care for these endangered animals.

Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi commended the collaborative efforts of the Gujarat Police and the Forest Department in ensuring the safety and growth of lion populations.

In 2024, the state recruited 237-beat guards (162 men and 75 women) to intensify surveillance and improve protection in the Gir Protected Area. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to protect not only the Asiatic lions but also other endangered species in the region.

The stateas ongoing commitment to wildlife protection is also reflected in the successful launch of the aGir Samvad Setua initiative. Over 300 such programs have been organised to address local community concerns and enhance their engagement in conservation. Additionally, nine breeding centres have been set up to conserve herbivorous species crucial to the Gir ecosystem.
Cairo, March 3 : Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty reaffirmed the importance of fully and faithfully implementing the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel in the Gaza Strip, stressing the necessity of transitioning to the second phase of the deal to ensure a lasting truce.

"Since the first phase has been completed, we should now begin discussions and consultations on the second phase. The ultimate goal is to sustain the ceasefire agreement," Abdelatty said at a joint press conference in Cairo with European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica.

Abdelatty condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's decision to stop the entry of aid to Gaza. He said that using aid as a weapon of collective punishment and starvation in Gaza is unacceptable and impermissible, affirming that this act represents a blatant and explicit violation of international humanitarian law, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Egyptian top diplomat emphasised that Egypt is actively coordinating with the US and Qatar, hosting delegations, and intensifying discussions to ensure the agreement's implementation, maintain the ceasefire, and facilitate humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.

"We continue our intensive efforts to ensure the sustainability of the ceasefire and to initiate negotiations on the second phase," he told reporters.

He also reiterated that the establishment of a Palestinian state is the only viable path to long-term security and stability in the region.

He emphasised Europe's crucial role, both politically in maintaining regional peace and economically in supporting the upcoming reconstruction of Gaza.

Israel and Hamas have been implementing a ceasefire agreement since January 19, following more than 15 months of a deadly conflict in Gaza. The first phase of the ceasefire agreement ended on Saturday.

Hamas has said it was ready to open negotiations on the second phase, but Israel presented a new framework that would extend the first phase until after the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover, which ends on April 20, describing it as an outline of US envoy Steve Witkoff. Under the proposal, Hamas would free half the hostages on the first day, with the remaining captives freed at the end of the period if a permanent ceasefire is achieved.
Gaza, March 3 : Amid widespread devastation and family losses, Palestinians in the Gaza Strip welcomed this year's holy month of Ramadan with heavy hearts and weary bodies, following 15 months of Israeli assault on the besieged enclave.

While Muslims around the world welcomed Ramadan with prayer and festivity, the scene in Gaza tells a different story.

Gaza's streets, once vibrant and full of life, now lie in ruins. The rubble of destroyed homes stands as a haunting reminder of the devastation, while the air is thick with the smell of gunpowder, death, and decay.

With the first phase of the ceasefire between Palestinians and Israel having ended on Saturday and no sign of a second phase, Gazans now live in heightened anxiety, fearing the war could resume at any moment, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Every day that passes without shelling brings a sense of relief. But at the same time we live in fear that the attacks will start again," said Om Mohammed al-Najjar from Khan Younis, southern Gaza. She lost her home in the recent bombardment.

"We have suffered enough. Ramadan should be a time of peace, but here, there is no peace," she said.

Mohammed Al-Dahdouh, a 45-year-old father of four from Gaza City, recalled how his family joyously decorated their home with lanterns and vibrant colors. The kitchen would be filled with the delicious aroma of maqluba and qatayef, traditional Middle Eastern dishes, and laughter would echo throughout the house.

"Ramadan used to mean family gatherings around the iftar table, the sound of children's laughter, and the smell of food filling the house," Al-Dahdouh told Xinhua. "Now, there is no home, no table. We are crammed into a small tent, and the food we have barely suffices," he added.

"We cling to life because we have no other choice. We are people who love life, and we have the right to live in peace and safety," he said.

In the northern Gaza town of Beit Lahia, Suzanne Abdel-Ati strolls between the tents standing on open land, exchanging greetings with her new neighbours, most of whom are displaced like herself.

"During the war, the army killed my entire family, and now I am left with only two children," Abdel-Ati told Xinhua.

She recalled the days when her family would gather each night to break the fast. "Now, they lie beneath the earth," she added quietly.

Tasaheel Nassar, a Palestinian woman from Rafah city who lost her husband, brothers, and parents in an Israeli airstrike, told Xinhua, "The holy Ramadan month has lost its spirit here in Gaza. There are no lanterns, no decorations, no bustling markets. Instead, there is death's silence and the ever-present smell of destruction."

"Our loved ones are gone, and we no longer have the strength to carry on," she said, adding, "The pain is constant, and now it is worse because the holy Ramadan month brings memories of the family I lost."

Some Gazans choose not to surrender. Thirty-five-year-old Arkan Radi from Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, along with his friends, has hung some Ramadan decorations in their tent.

"We know that the decorations won't change our reality," Radi says, "but they are a message that we are still here, still holding on to life, even in the darkest times. It's not a solution, but I want to bring some hope and joy to my children."
London, March 3 : British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that Britain will allow Ukraine to use 1.6 billion pounds ($2 billion) of British export finance to purchase more than 5,000 air defence missiles.

"This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening Ukraine," Starmer told a press conference on Sunday following a summit with Western leaders in London, Xinhua news agency reported.

The goal is "to put Ukraine in the strongest position" so the country can negotiate from a position of strength, he added.

Western leaders, including more than a dozen European heads of state and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, gathered in London on Sunday for a defense summit aimed at advancing a peace plan for Ukraine.

Starmer said leaders at the summit had agreed on a four-step plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine: to maintain military aid to Ukraine while the conflict continues and increase economic pressure on Russia; to ensure that any lasting peace guarantees Ukraine's sovereignty and security, with Ukraine at the table for any negotiations; to deter "any future invasion by Russia" in the event of a peace deal; and to establish a "coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine and uphold peace in the country.

The leaders also agreed to meet again soon to sustain the momentum behind these efforts, Starmer said.

The prime minister reaffirmed Britain's commitment to supporting the peace plan with "boots on the ground, and planes in the air."

"Europe must do the heavy lifting," he said, emphasising that the agreement needs US backing.

"Let me be clear, we agree with Trump on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver together," he said.

Earlier on Sunday before the summit, Starmer announced that Britain, France and Ukraine will work on a ceasefire plan to present to the US. He named three essential points to achieve "lasting peace" -- a strong Ukraine, a European element with security guarantees, and a US backstop, with the last one being the subject of "intense" discussion.

The summit took place amid diplomatic tensions, following a heated exchange earlier this week between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump at the White House, which led to the cancellation of an anticipated raw materials agreement between the two countries.

On Saturday, Zelensky met with Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where the British prime minister reaffirmed the UK's "unwavering determination" to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine. Following the meeting, Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko announced that Britain and Ukraine had agreed on a loan of 2.26 billion pounds to support Ukraine's defence capabilities. (1 pound = $1.26)
Jerusalem, March 3 : Schools across northern Israel reopened after being closed for nearly a year and a half, following the outbreak of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict along the Lebanese border in early October 2023.

In a statement, the Israeli Education Ministry confirmed that the reopening would be gradual, citing damage to school infrastructure from the fighting, a shortage of teachers, and the displacement of many students who were evacuated with their families to central and southern Israel at the conflict's outset, Xinhua news agency reported.

In a separate notice to parents on Sunday, the Education Ministry said that about 12,600 students from 195 schools and kindergartens in 43 cities, towns, and villages in northern Israel were evacuated with their families in early October 2023.

The ministry added that each evacuated family can choose whether to return home and re-enroll their children in their original schools or stay in the evacuation locations, where the students can complete the school year.

The ministry also said it has allocated 50 million shekels ($13.89 million) to extend after-school activities in the north, alongside a comprehensive initiative to bolster students' mental resilience. This includes emotional support and guidance to help them recover from the impact of the conflict.

Earlier Israel has accepted a US proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and Jewish Passover holiday, according to a statement issued by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office around midnight between Saturday and Sunday.

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began on Friday and will last until March 30, while the Jewish Passover week will be marked from April 12 to 20.

According to the proposal by US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, on the first day of the extended ceasefire, about half of the 59 living and dead Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza would be returned.
Gaza, March 3 : Israel will only be able to "get its captives back" through a prisoner exchange deal, senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi said in a press statement.

"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is delusional if he thinks he can achieve his goals through the starvation war imposed on the Gaza Strip," Mardawi said on Sunday.

Mardawi reaffirmed Hamas's refusal to extend the first phase of the agreement with Israel, stressing the need to implement all its phases as originally signed, Xinhua news agency reported.

He also called on mediators to ensure Israel adhered to the terms of the agreement, as agreed upon.

The first 42-day phase of the three-stage agreement between Hamas and Israel, which included increased humanitarian aid, expired on Saturday. Under the agreement, both sides were expected to negotiate a second phase, in which Hamas would release dozens of remaining hostages in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal and a permanent ceasefire.

However, on Friday, Israel presented a new framework that would extend the first phase for an additional 42 days, until after the Muslim and Jewish holidays of Ramadan and Passover, which end on April 20. Hamas said Saturday that the Israeli proposal is "unacceptable."

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel has decided "to prevent any entry of goods and supplies into Gaza" to pressure Hamas into accepting the extension proposal, which he said was put forth by US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff.
Los Angeles, March 3 : Hollywood actress Zoe Saldana is walking home with the Oscar trophy for Best Supporting Actress for her role as an attorney for a cartel leader in Jacques Audiard's 'Emilia Perez'.

As she took to the stage to receive the honour, she paid tribute to the cast and her own family in an emotional speech, reports 'Variety'.

Saldana shouted out the 'Emilia Perez' cast in her Oscar acceptance speech, saying, "Thank you to the Academy, for recognising the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita, and talking about powerful women. Jacques, you are a beloved character in my life. Thank you for taking the interest. Thank you for being so curious about these women to tell this story. To my cast and my crew of 'Emilia Perez,' I'm sharing this award with you".

As per 'Variety', she then spoke emotionally about her family and her grandmother, tearing up during her speech. "My grandmother came to this country in 1961, I am a proud child of immigrant parents", she said. "With dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last. I hope. The fact that I'm getting an award for a role where I got to sing and speak in Spanish, my grandmother, if she were here, she would be so delighted, this is for my grandmother".

The actress also took home the SAG Award for Supporting Actress for 'Emilia Perez', as well as a BAFTA award, Golden Globe and Critics Choice award.

Last year, she shared the best actress award when the film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival with her co-stars Selena Gomez, Adriana Paz and Karla Sofia Gascon.

'Emilia Perez' was nominated for 13 Oscars at this year's ceremony, the most of any film in the field. But despite Saldana's numerous kudos, the Spanish language musical has had a rocky path this awards season. Gascon, who was nominated for best actress, came under fire for a series of offensive tweets, which led to a series of apologies from the Spanish performer. French filmmaker Audiard was criticized for saying Spanish was the language of "poor people and migrants", and for failing to grasp the nuances of Mexican culture and of trans depictions.

At the Oscars, Saldana faced off against Monica Barbaro, who played Joan Baez in 'A Complete Unknown', Isabella Rossellini for 'Conclave', Felicity Jones for 'The Brutalist' and Ariana Grande for 'Wicked'.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, March 3 : Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on Monday, expressed gratitude to the US for the support it has extended during the ongoing war against Russia.

In a video message posted on X, Zelensky acknowledged the "importance" of the US in Ukraine's fight, stating, "Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we've received from the United States."

Zelensky's comments came two days after a tense encounter at the White House, where US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticised him for not expressing enough gratitude towards America and for rejecting their proposed terms for a truce in the conflict.

Addressing these concerns in his video post, Zelensky emphasised the unity and support Ukraine has received from Europe.

"As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate," he said, reiterating that Ukraine's goal is peace, not an "endless war," and stressing the need for "real security guarantees."

"Everyone is united on the main issue, for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe, the entire continent. The United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkey," he added.

Furthermore, Zelensky reflected on the resilience of the Ukrainian people, acknowledging the ongoing international efforts to preserve the country's independence.

"There has not been a day when we haven't felt gratitude. It's gratitude for the preservation of our independence, our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us, and for their own security," he said.

Zelensky's video post follows his attendance at a key summit in London, where leaders from various countries, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, gathered to discuss the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The summit marked a show of solidarity from the international community since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Energy Ministry does not know who from IAEA ends up at Zaporizhia NPP after rotation not coordinated with Ukraine

The Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, due to the rotation of the International Atomic Energy Agency mission to the occupied Zaporizhia NPP not coordinated with the Ukrainian authorities, does not have reliable information about the list of experts represented there and considers such a situation unacceptable.

"Ukraine once again confirms its firm position that any rotation of IAEA experts to Zaporizhia NPP must take place in full compliance with international law and exclusively along routes agreed with the Ukrainian authorities, through territories under full control of Ukraine," reads an official letter from Energy Minister Herman Haluschenko to IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, which was reported on the Ministry of Energy website on Monday.

According to the report, the head of the Ministry of Energy in the letter called on the IAEA leadership to immediately take measures to correct this situation and ensure that its future activities comply with international law, UN General Assembly resolutions and the fundamental principles of the agency's mandate.

The letter states that Russia deliberately created artificial obstacles to the proper rotation of IAEA experts and kept international experts at the Zaporizhia NPP site for more than 80 days under unprecedented pressure in a zone of high military risks.

As reported, at a press conference at the IAEA on Monday, March 3, its head Rafael Grossi explained the rotation of the IAEA mission outside the territory controlled by Ukraine exclusively by concern for the lives of the experts.
Penelope Cruz: Meryl Streep made me want to try something crazy. Image Source: IANS News

Los Angeles, March 3 : Hollywood star Penelope Cruz set her best fashion foot forward and was a sight to behold as she looked elegant as always at the 2025 Oscars red carpet.

The 'Pirates of the Caribbean' actress, 50, returned to the star-studded awards show in a romantic white silk chiffon Chanel gown inspired by a Spring-Summer 1992 design, reports 'People' magazine.

The actress, who's been an ambassador for the French fashion house since 2018, left jaws on the floor in the look, which featured a ruched bodice decked out in sparkly jewel buttons and a sheer floor-hitting cape attached to the dress' straps. According to the brand, the flowy design took 254 hours to create.

As per 'People', she teamed with the gown a selection of dazzling Chanel high jewelry, including diamond "Soleil" earrings paired with a coordinating ring featuring a round-cut diamond worth over 5 carats. She also wore a "Comete Aubazine" diamond ring and "Soleil 19 Aout" brooch boasting a 22.10-carat yellow diamond.

Cruz attended Hollywood's biggest night as one of the many presenters alongside Halle Berry, Bowen Yang and Scarlett Johansson.

The actress has been making waves at the Academy Awards since 2000, which marked the year she attended her first in a stunning cobalt blue Chanel couture design from Spring 1995. And while she's stayed loyal to the iconic house, she's also experimented in gowns by other houses, including Balmain, Oscar de la Renta and Ralph Lauren, as per WWD. For her most recent attendance in 2022, she wore a fall 2020 Chanel halter number that took 680 to make, as per the outlet.

The actress is a powerhouse for both her red carpet resume and her Oscars reputation. She is a four-time nominee and took home the award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role for Vicky Cristina Barcelona in 2009.

She has also been a masterclass in fashion during her latest public appearances.

In October, Cruz stepped out with her 'Bandidas' co-star Salma Hayek for Wall street Journal Magazine's 14th Annual Innovator Awards at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

The actresses held hands while posing together on the carpet, with Cruz commanding attention in her form-fitting silver gown and Hayek in a red-hot dress with accentuated hips.

She also attended the Met Gala in 2024, wearing a floral-inspired Chanel ensemble for the year's theme 'Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion'.

The gown required around 500 hours of work, featuring eight variations of French floral lace in both black and silver.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Los Angeles, March 3 : The 97th Oscar Awards paid a tribute to late star Gene Hackman with the actor's "Unforgiven" co-star Morgan Freeman introducing an honour for his "dear friend".

Los Angeles, March 3 (IANS) The 97th Oscar Awards paid a tribute to late star Gene Hackman with the actor's "Unforgiven" co-star Morgan Freeman introducing an honour for his "dear friend".

The speech preceded the ceremony's in memoriam, honouring the industry figures who have died in the previous year, reports variety.com.

"This week, our community lost a giant. And I lost a dear friend, Gene Hackman," Freeman began in his speech.

"I had the pleasure of working alongside gene on two films, 'Unforgiven' and 'Under Suspicion.' Like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer and a man whose gifts elevated everyone's work."

"Gene always said, 'I don't think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work,'" Freeman continued.

"I think I speak for us all when I say, 'Gene, you will be remembered for that, and so much more.' Rest in peace, my friend."

Hackman, 95, was found dead alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65. The couple's bodies were discovered inside their Santa Fe residence.

Hackman drew plenty of awards attention through his filmmaking career. He won two trophies from the Academy. The first came in 1972, for starring as the obsessive narcotics investigator Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in William Friedkin's thriller "The French Connection."

The heralded turn cast Hackman's trajectory as one of the defining American actors of the second half of the 20th century. His second win came in 1993, for his supporting turn as another rancid officer of the law, Sheriff Little Bill Daggett, in Clint Eastwood's Western "Unforgiven."

Along with those two wins, Hackman earned three other Oscar nominations, in supporting for "Bonnie and Clyde" in 1968 and "I Never Sang for My Father" in 1971, as well as a lead nod for "Mississippi Burning" in 1989.

Among the many tributes that poured in for Hackman, Eastwood remembered his "Unforgiven" co-star in a statement to Variety, writing that, "There was no finer actor than Gene. Intense and instinctive. Never a false note. He was also a dear friend whom I will miss very much."

The deaths of Hackman and Arkawa remain under investigation.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
New Delhi, March 3 : Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan will embark on an official visit to Australia from March 4 to March 7, underscoring the strengthening defence partnership between India and Australia.

The visit reflects the growing collaboration in military strategy, training, and operational cooperation, the Ministry of Defence announced in a statement on Monday.

During his visit, the CDS will engage in high-level discussions with senior officials from the Australian Department of Defence and the leadership of the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

His engagements will include meetings with Australia's Chief of Defence Force General Admiral David Johnston, Secretary of Defence Greg Moriarty, and the Chiefs of the three Services.

As part of his itinerary, Gen Chauhan will visit the Force Command Headquarters to understand Australia's operational command structure and explore avenues for joint operations between the two nations.

He will also interact with the Australian Fleet Commander and the Joint Operations Commander to discuss enhanced maritime cooperation and regional security challenges.

Reaffirming India's commitment to military education and professional development, the CDS will visit the Australian Defence College, where he will address senior officers on strategic challenges in the Indo-Pacific.

Additionally, he will chair a roundtable discussion at the Lowy Institute, Australia's leading think tank, focusing on Indo-Pacific security dynamics and defence cooperation.

The Ministry of Defence emphasised that this visit highlights the growing engagement between India and Australia under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, aimed at strengthening diplomatic and military collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.

India and Australia have steadily built their defence relationship since 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Australia paved the way for expanding defence cooperation, including research, development, and industry collaboration.

This partnership has since evolved to include regular ministerial meetings, maritime exercises, and service-to-service dialogues.

In October 2015, India's then-Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R.K. Dhowan, signed a Technical Agreement on White Shipping Information Exchange during his visit to Australia, further enhancing maritime security cooperation, specifically in the Indo-Pacific region.

According to the Australian High Commission in New Delhi, the two nations share a long-standing defence relationship, dating back to World War I, when soldiers from both countries fought together in Gallipoli and along the Western Front.

The partnership was formally strengthened through the 2006 Memorandum on Defence Cooperation and the 2009 Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation.

In recent years, bilateral defence ties have expanded significantly, incorporating strategic dialogues, high-level visits, staff talks, and training exchanges.

General Chauhan's visit is expected to further solidify this collaboration, enhancing India and Australia's joint efforts to ensure security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
Chennai, Mar 3 : The makers of director Srikanth Odela's much-awaited action thriller, The Paradise, featuring Natural Star Nani in the lead, have now released a new video, which gives a glimpse of the raw, rustic nature of the gripping action thriller.

Chennai, Mar 3 (IANS) The makers of director Srikanth Odela's much-awaited action thriller, The Paradise, featuring Natural Star Nani in the lead, have now released a new video, which gives a glimpse of the raw, rustic nature of the gripping action thriller.

More importantly, the makers have announced that the eagerly awaited action extravaganza will hit screens worldwide on March 26 next year.

On Monday, as promised the makers of the film 'The Paradise', released a glimpse video, which the makers chose to call a "raw statement."

The video begins with a woman's voice saying, "Everyone has written of parrots and doves. Yet no one has dared to pen the tale of crows. This is the story of those oppressed crows."

The glimpse gives an idea of the grimness of the story. The woman continues to narrate. She says, "The saga of restless corpses, drifting through the ages. The story of a race that was raised by pouring blood like milk from a mother's breast A human spark sparked valour in an entire community. The crows, once scorned, rose with swords in their grasp. This is the tale of a son of a bitch who united these crows. The tale of my son, who rose a leader."

The glimpse makes it clear that the film will revolve around the uprising of an oppressed class under the leadership of a strong and capable leader, shunned by society.

The Paradise has triggered huge interest as it will be for the second time that acclaimed filmmaker Srikanth Odela will be joining hands with Nani. The two had earlier worked together on Dasara, which had gone on to emerge a big hit.

The film, which has been produced by Sudhakar Cherukuri , has music by one of the most sought after music directors in the country, Anirudh Ravichander. Cinematography for the film is by GK Vishnu and editing will be by Navin Nooli.

Vinay Sagar Jonnala is the Chief Co-director of the film, which has dialogues by Thota Srinivas and Ajju Mahakali.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, March 3 : Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda visited the Ayushman Arogya Mandir in Palam, Delhi, on Monday accompanied by South Delhi MP Ramveer Singh Bidhuri, MLA Kuldeep Solanki, and several other BJP leaders and workers.

Nadda inspected the hospital and participated in a tree-planting ceremony, taking a first-hand look at the facility's operations.

Addressing the gathering, MP Ramveer Singh Bidhuri emphasised the need for the hospital to be developed further to better serve the people of the region.

"This hospital will be further developed so that the people of the area benefit from it. There are no government-run hospitals here, neither from the central nor the Delhi government, but we are committed to enhancing this facility," Bidhuri said.

The visit was part of ongoing efforts to improve healthcare services in the region. "The people of Palam deserve better healthcare, and this hospital, with further development, will meet their needs," he added.

While talking to media persons, Bidhuri explained how the local community had been longing for better healthcare services. He remarked, "70 years ago, a 50-bed hospital was established by the Indian government in Palam. However, it was shut down for reasons that remain unclear. The people of Palam, including me, Kuldeep Solanki, and other senior residents of the area, have long requested for a new, better hospital."

Bidhuri further stated that he, along with local leaders like MLA Kuldeep Solanki and Councillor Seema Pandit, had formally requested Minister Nadda to ensure the establishment of a new hospital on a 3.5-acre plot in the area. "We have appealed to Mr Nadda to help us build a comprehensive hospital, which will significantly improve healthcare access for the people of Palam," he added.

Minister Nadda reassured the community that he would work to find a solution and committed to holding a meeting to discuss plans for constructing a new hospital.
Seoul, March 3 : The leadership of the South Korea's ruling People Power Party (PPP) was set to pay a courtesy visit to former President Park Geun-hye on Monday, party officials said, ahead of the Constitutional Court's ruling on President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment.

The top PPP members, led by Kwon Young-se, chief of the party's emergency steering committee, and its floor leader Kweon Seong-dong, will travel to the southeastern city of Daegu to meet Park at her home later in the day, party officials said.

The visit comes as the Constitutional Court is expected to deliver its final ruling on Yoon's impeachment over his December 3 martial law attempt later this month. If upheld, Yoon will be removed from office, and a snap presidential election will be held within 60 days.

Park, who took office as president in 2013, was impeached and removed from office in March 2017 after the top court upheld her impeachment over an influence-peddling scandal involving her close associate, Choi Soon-sil.

In the meeting with Park, the PPP members were expected to discuss the current political situation surrounding Yoon's impeachment and listen to Park's opinions about the future direction of the party, among other issues.

Some PPP officials said Park might send out a message to Yoon's supporters, urging unity until the impeachment ruling is delivered, Yonhap news agency reported.

Meanwhile, the court capped the trial after 11 rounds, 73 days after the National Assembly voted to impeach Yoon over his short-lived imposition of martial law on December 3.

The impeachment motion accuses Yoon of violating the Constitution and laws by declaring martial law in the absence of a national emergency and ignoring due procedures, such as holding a Cabinet meeting and notifying the Parliament.

Yoon has argued his declaration of martial law was an act of governance meant to send a warning to the Opposition party over its repeated impeachments of government officials and attempts to cut the government budget.

If Yoon, who was elected in May 2022 for a single, five-year term, is formally removed from office, a snap election will be held within 60 days. However, if the impeachment is dismissed, Yoon will immediately resume his duties.
Mumbai, March 3 : Actor Tahir Raj Bhasin, who will be seen in Netflix's upcoming compelling mystery alongside actress Parineeti Chopra, said that he has always loved being a part of projects that look to disrupt.

Talking about his yet-untitled project, he said: "I have always loved being a part of projects that look to disrupt. This thriller-mystery web series is everything you want from an edge-of-the-seat entertainer that will surprise you at every step of the way."

He went on to thank his producer and director.

"I'm thrilled that someone as acclaimed as Siddharth P. Malhotra and my director Rensil D Silva felt I would be the perfect choice to fit their vision. I have been a huge fan of their work, and it is an honour for me to join hands with them," he said.

The actor said the upcoming series has some of the finest talents from the industry.

"This series also brings some of the best actors in the industry together for the first time, and I'm looking forward to working with them. I'm sure we would be able to creatively collaborate brilliantly on set to bring this story to life."

He shared that he is grateful that his last project with Netflix, Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein, which is also my franchise on streaming, became a blockbuster.

"So, I'm sure people will expect a lot from my association with Netflix again, and I'm very bullish about this project. It's an insane mystery."

The show features an all-star cast and is produced by the acclaimed Siddharth P. Malhotra, director of Maharaj, and Sapna Malhotra of Alchemy Productions.

Written and directed by Rensil D'Silva of Rang De Basanti and Ungli fame, the upcoming project also stars Jennifer Winget, Soni Razdan, Harleen Sethi, Anup Soni, Sumeet Vyas, and Chaitanya Choudhry.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Dubai, March 3 : Legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble has hailed an exceptional Varun Chakaravarthy for picking 5-42 in India's 44-run win over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy, saying the wrist-spinner has won matches for the teams he played for in last 1.5 years and that his recent performance is very encouraging for the Rohit Sharma led-side.

At the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, Chakaravarthy returned figures of 5-42, the combined best bowling figures in the ongoing tournament, in just his second ODI game to bamboozle New Zealand and ensure India end as Group A toppers.

Chakaravarthy had been a late addition to India's squad for the Champions Trophy, as he came in for left-handed opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, leaving people wondering if the side was carrying too much spinners for Dubai's slow pitches. But on Sunday, Chakaravarthy and India proved that late decision to be fruitful.

"I think Varun has been exceptional in the last 1-1.5 years, consistently winning matches for whichever team he has played for, whether it's Tamil Nadu or KKR or for India in T20Is. Now, getting an opportunity (in ODIs), because obviously India had already qualified."

"But going by the pitch and the conditions perhaps for the semi-final and hopefully for India, the final, this certainly augurs well," said Kumble to ESPNcricinfo on Monday.

The Chennai-based Chakaravarthy first castled Will Young, and came back in the end of the middle overs to dismiss Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell in consecutive overs. He then removed Mitchell Santner, and dismissed Matt Henry on the very next ball to complete his incredible five-wicket haul.

Chakaravarthy may get a chance to shine again for India when they will face Australia in the first Champions Trophy semi-final in Dubai on Tuesday. Kumble further believes Australia will find it difficult if India continue to play four spinners in the all-important semi-final clash

"If this is the kind of pitch India will continue to play on in Dubai, then this four-pronged spin attack would be really a challenge for any team. Australia would find it extremely difficult to maneuver these four spinners," he concluded.
Mumbai, March 3 : Actor Ashutosh Rana, who is known for his work in 'Dushman', 'Sangharsh', 'War', 'Mulk', 'Pathaan' and others, has chalked out the difference between the media of theatre and cinema.

The actor recently spoke with IANS in light of his theatre play 'Humaare Ram'. The actor is a National School of Drama (NSD) graduate, and feels that both the media have their own importance and serve different purposes.

He told IANS, "I believe that theatre is a training ground. Films are like a performance. You watch a movie in Bareilly and at the same time in Berlin, people are able to see your art. But in theatre, if you are doing it in Mumbai, not everyone in Mumbai will be able to see a theatre play concurrently except for the people who are sitting in the audience".

He went on to state the importance of both theatre and films, as he said, "But if you see, there is no importance of such training which does not give you the opportunity to perform. And people do not appreciate such performances which do not have a lot of training behind it. So, I believe that you have a training institute which prepares you. And a person who is ready, an artist or a warrior, tries to bring him to the world".

"For any performance, training is very important. And since I am from the National School of Drama, you see our original DNA is the DNA of Rang Manch", he added.

The biggest feature of theater is that it keeps you alert, aware and active. So, for any show like Truth of the Moment, we have to be alert, active and aware. So, it has to increase these three things within us. And when these three things increase, then in our life, you and I become more enlightened and we start using our abilities more. So, I feel that it is magical when your faculties open up.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Mumbai, March 3 : Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee took to social media to celebrate 2 years of his film "Gulmohar." Mumbai, March 3 (IANS) Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee took to social media to celebrate 2 years of his film "Gulmohar."

In a heartfelt post, the actor stated that some stories don't fade; they grow and become a part of you, and Gulmohar is one of those. Taking to his Instagram handle, Manoj shared a series of photos and wrote, "#2YearsOfGulmohar and this film still feels like home. Some stories don't fade, they grow and become a part of you. #Gulmohar is one of those. From winning the hearts of audiences to receiving multiple National Award and other prestigious accolades, this journey for the entire team has been incredible."

He added, "A huge shoutout to our director @rahulchittella and writer #ArpitaMukherjee for shaping this story with such depth and sincerity, and to everyone who brought it to life. And most of all, to the audience who embraced it and found a piece of themselves in it."

"Gulmohar," written and directed by Rahul V. Chittella, also stars Sharmila Tagore, Simran, Suraj Sharma, Amol Palekar, and Kaveri Seth, amongst others. It was released on Disney+ Hotstar on 3 March 2023. It was featured in the 54th IFFI Indian Panorama mainstream section. The film centered on a family drama, exploring the dynamics of a multi-generational family preparing to move out of their 34-year-old family home. It also marked Sharmila Tagore's return to the screen after 13 years.

At the 70th National Film Awards, "Gulmohar" won several prestigious accolades, including Best Feature Film in Hindi, Best Screenplay (Dialogues) for Mukherjee and Chittella, and a Special Mention for Feature Film to Manoj Bajpayee.

Earlier, in an interview with IANS, Bajpayee spoke about the film chosen for three honours at the National Film Awards. He shared, "All I can say is that I am too happy for my director and feel very proud that Gulmohar is chosen for 3 awards! A film which holds a very special place in my heart."

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
As of 16:00, 57 combat clashes have already been recorded along the entire front line, 13 of which are in Pokrovsk direction, and 13 attacks also occurred in the operational zone in Kursk direction, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported on Monday.

"In Pokrovsk direction, since the beginning of the day, the occupiers have made 13 attempts to push our defenders from their positions in the areas of the settlements of Oleksandropil, Lysivka, Promin, Dachenske, Kotlyne and Andriyivka. The defense forces are holding back the enemy's onslaught and have repelled 11 attacks, two clashes are still ongoing," the General Staff's report on Telegram says.

It is reported that in the operational zone in Kursk region, the Defense Forces repelled 13 attacks by the Russian army. "The enemy also carried out six air strikes, dropping seven UABs, and carried out 190 artillery attacks. Currently, fighting continues in three locations," the General Staff added.

In Lymany direction, the invading army attacked nine times, two clashes are still ongoing. In Toretsk direction, the enemy made seven attempts to improve its position, three clashes are currently ongoing. In Novo-Pavlivsk direction, enemy units attacked the positions of our troops six times, three attacks are still ongoing. In Kramatorsk direction, Ukrainian defenders are repelling two assaults by the invaders. In Orikhiv direction, two clashes are also ongoing. Isolated clashes have been noted in Kharkiv and Siversk directions.

The enemy did not conduct active offensive actions in Kupyansk, Huliai-Pole and Prydniprovsk directions, but is constantly shelling the positions of the Defense Forces and populated areas, using attack UAVs, and conducting reconnaissance.
Jammu, March 3 : During Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha's address in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday, the lone Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) MLA, Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad, staged a protest in the central hall.

Jammu, March 3 (IANS) During Lt. Governor Manoj Sinhaas address in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Monday, the lone Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) MLA, Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad, staged a protest in the central hall.

As the Lt. Governor started delivering his address, holding a placard, AIP MLA Sheikh Khursheed vocally opposed several policies of the administration and demanded justice for the victims of recent killings in Baramulla and Kathua.

He also demanded the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, arguing that their abrogation had stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and rights.

Ahmad called for the release of all political prisoners and said that detaining leaders, activists and youth without trial was undemocratic.

He also sought justice for the families of two men killed in Baramulla and Kathua, urging the administration to conduct a fair probe and provide compensation to the victimsa families.

Ahmad is the brother of the AIP founder and Lok Sabha member, Engineer Rashid, who is lodged in Tihar Jail in Delhi.

Khursheed Ahmad won the Legislative Assembly election last year as the AIP candidate from the Langate constituency of the Kupwara district.

This constituency was twice represented in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly by Engineer Rashid.

After getting elected to the Lok Sabha, Engineer Rashid fielded his brother from Langate.

Engineer Rashid won the Lok Sabha election by defeating the National Conference (NC) vice president, Omar Abdullah, by a margin of over two lakh votes.

He had filed his papers from Tihar Jail for the Lok Sabha polls. He was later released on interim bail for a short period because of the ill health of his aging parents.

Rashid sought votes for AIP candidates during the J&K Assembly polls after getting interim bail. But he could not make any impact during the Assembly polls and all the AIP candidates except Sheikh Khurshid Ahmad lost those elections
Seoul, March 3 : Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye called on Monday for the ruling People Power Party (PPP) to stay united and fulfill its responsibilities despite challenges from the Opposition-controlled political landscape.

Park made the remarks during a meeting with the PPP leadership at her home in the southeastern city of Daegu, expressing "deep concern" over the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol, according to party officials.

The visit by the top PPP members, including Kwon Young-se, chief of the party's emergency steering committee, and its floor leader Kweon Seong-dong, came as the Constitutional Court is expected to deliver its final ruling on Yoon's impeachment over his December 3 martial law attempt later this month.

If upheld, Yoon will be removed from office, and a snap presidential election will be held within 60 days.

"I feel heavy-hearted about President Yoon facing the situation while being in custody," Rep. Shin Dong-uk, party spokesperson, quoted Park as saying.

Shin quoted her as saying that "she hopes the ruling party can unite for the sake of the country's future" and that "the ruling party must take full responsibility for the public until the very end."

"She said that although there may be many difficult battles against the Opposition, as the ruling party, it must uphold its duties," Shin said.

On Yoon's impeachment trial, Park voiced concerns about deepening national division that might further escalate tensions, Yonhap news agency reported.

Park also warned against "excessive personal convictions leading to confrontations," stressing that the party's leadership and lawmakers "should not prioritise their own beliefs over the party because it will not help overcome the crisis," according to Shin.

"(She said) unity is essential," Shin said.

Park, who took office as President in 2013, was impeached and removed from office in March 2017 after the top court upheld her impeachment over an influence-peddling scandal involving her close associate, Choi Soon-sil.
Bengaluru, March 3 : Referring to the statement made by former Union Minister and veteran Congress leader Veerappa Moily, who said that no one can stop Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar from becoming the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka stated on Monday that this confirms the existence of a power-sharing agreement between Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru, Ashoka said, "Veerappa Moily's statement has brightened the face of Deputy CM Shivakumar. Moily is well-aware of the intricacies of the power-sharing agreement. There is a power-sharing deal for 2.6 years between the CM and the Deputy CM. I had initially spoken about this arrangement."

On the other hand, a Congress MLA has also claimed that Shivakumar will take over as CM in December.

"I had predicted that CM Siddaramaiah would be replaced in November. When I made that statement, Shivakumar asked if I was an astrologer and even joked that he would come to me to learn more about it. CM Siddaramaiah, however, has dismissed these claims," Ashoka added.

Commenting on the situation, Ashoka said, "As these developments unfold, CM Siddaramaiah is reportedly experiencing knee pain. A religious seer has stated that Siddaramaiah will not give up his position easily. Shivakumar once joked on the floor of the Assembly that his astrologer told him he would have to resort to force to gain power and that it wouldn't come to him easily. Now, we must wait and see how Shivakumar manages to secure the CM's chair."

He further alleged, "CM Siddaramaiah is set to take on the highest loans in the state's history, ensuring that when Shivakumar becomes the CM, he will be forced to quit due to financial mismanagement. This ongoing power struggle has completely collapsed law and order in the state. The administration has also fallen apart, and there has been no significant development."

Meanwhile, despite these claims, CM Siddaramaiah has continued to assert that he will remain in office for a full term, dismissing concerns about the state's political uncertainty.

Former Union Minister Veerappa Moily, speaking at a party function in Udupi on Sunday, announced that no one can stop Shivakumar from becoming the Chief Minister. Moily made this statement in Shivakumar's presence, further emphasising that the decision to hand over the CM's post to Shivakumar had already been made.

"I was the one who gave Shivakumar the party ticket to contest the MLA election for the first time. He has groomed himself into a successful political leader, and it is a matter of great joy," Moily had stated.

Moily advised Shivakumar stating, "You must not react to anything. There will be statements against you, but you should not be concerned."
New Delhi, March 3 : Finland is opening its doors to skilled Indian professionals for opportunities that span across IT software development, engineering, game development and post-doctoral research roles, according to an official statement on Monday.

Business Finland is Finland's official government agency for promoting trade and investment, financing innovation, promoting travel and attracting talent.

"Indian talent interested in pursuing a career in Finland can find comprehensive information on living and working in the country, as well as available career opportunities, on the Work in Finland website," the statement by Business Finland read.

Laura Lindeman, Senior Director of Business Finland's Work in Finland unit, emphasised Finland's proactive approach to encouraging international talent, particularly in IT and technology sectors to explore opportunities in the country.

"In the long run, Finland is looking for professionals, for example IT specialists in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Finland offers an unparalleled opportunity for professionals to thrive in a country that values innovation, sustainability and a balanced lifestyle," Lindeman further said.

Sanna Marttinen, Executive Director at Tulanet, represents the new Postdoctoral Programme for Research Institutes. "Our role is to coordinate the cooperation between 11 Finnish government research institutes, and we are very excited about the government's heavy investment in research and development (R&D)," Marttinen stated.

The programme, which will be funded by the government's multi-annual R&D plan, aims to recruit 85 new postdoctoral researchers between 2025 and 2028, with salaries around 4,000 euros.

Tech companies in Finland are known from innovations, top tech knowhow and development opportunities for talents. Many companies value skills -- in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, along with a solid foundation in problem-solving and innovation.

Qualifications in computer science, engineering, or a related field are essential, and fluency in English is usually sufficient, although learning Finnish can be advantageous, according to the official statement.

Finland's vibrant start-up scene and rapidly growing technology sector present a host of opportunities for English-speaking professionals. Key industries include gaming, bioeconomy, clean and smart technologies, health and wellness, ICT and digitalisation, and tourism, the statement added.
Chennai, Mar 3 : Telugu star Prabhas on Monday released the teaser of director Abhilash Reddy Gopidi's upcoming comedy drama, 'Pelli Kani Prasad', featuring actors Sapthagiri and Priyanka Sharma in the lead, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

Chennai, Mar 3 (IANS) Telugu star Prabhas on Monday released the teaser of director Abhilash Reddy Gopidias upcoming comedy drama, aPelli Kani Prasada, featuring actors Sapthagiri and Priyanka Sharma in the lead, much to the delight of fans and film buffs.

The film, which has been produced by K.Y. Babu, Bhanu Prakash Goud, Sukka Venkateshwar Goud and Vybhav Reddy Mutyala, has been co-produced by Krishna Chaganti, Narsimha Raju Raachuri, Kalavakuri Ramana Naidu and Nalla Sahana Reddy.

Actor Sapthagiri, who took to his X timeline to thank Prabhas for releasing the teaser of the film, wrote, Thanks to Our Beloved #Mana #Maharaju #Darling #Prabhas Garu..! Love You Anna Forever..! Gear up for a rollercoaster ride of uproarious fun and emotions. Presenting the hilarious #PelliKaniPrasad teaser. In Cinemas from March 21st. Theatrical Release by @srivenkateswaracreationsa

The teaser opens with the titular character of Prasad taking a vow on his grandfather and great grandfathers that he will follow the rules and regulations followed by his ancestors with regard to taking dowry. From then on, we see Prasad telling his family members that his friends have all got married and are off to their honeymoons but his father tells him that the marriage market is down. His father is adamant that he will not settle for anything less than Two crores as dowry even as Prasad keeps hoping against hope that he will one day get married. Meanwhile, Prasad, who is desperate to get married, consults an astrologer who tells him that he will get married only if his father has a change of hearta

The teaser gives away the fact that the film will be a full-fledged comedy that will showcase the plight of those seeking dowry in this day and age.

Story and screenplay for the film have been penned by Akhil Varma and Y N Lohit. Music for the film is by Sekhar Chandra and cinematography is by Sujatha Siddharth. Editing is by Madhu and dialogues for the film have been penned by Akhil Varma.

The full-fledged comedy film is to hit screens on March 21 this year.

--IANS

Mkr/
Mumbai, March 3 : Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan in his joint address to the both Houses of state Legislature on Monday said the state was a preferred destination for Foreign Direct Investment and contributed over 14 per cent to the country's total GDP, being one of the leading industrial states in the country.

The government is also working to build an inclusive, progressive and developed Maharashtra by bringing all communities together, he said.

He said that at the World Economic Forum held in Davos, Switzerland, in January 2025, the government signed Memorandums of Understanding worth approximately Rs 15.72 lakh crore of investment with 63 national and international companies. This will generate more than 15 lakh employment opportunities in the state. Further, the government has planned to disburse the Investment Promotion Subsidy of about Rs 5,000 crore to different industries in the state to attract investments, foster industrial growth, and generate employment opportunities.

The government, through its undertaking Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation, has decided to allot industrial plots of approximately 3,500 acres to support and encourage industrialisation in the state. Recognising the growing demand for industrial land, 10,000 acres of land will be notified for industrial purposes.

The government will develop 10 Integrated Industrial Parks and Integrated Logistics Parks to enhance industrial growth, improve supply chain efficiency and create a world-class business ecosystem.

The government has approved the launch of the Maharashtra Technical Textiles Mission to strengthen and expand the state's textile sector. Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to launch such a mission aligned with the Centre's National Technical Textiles Mission, reinforcing its leadership in the textile industry.

The government will go ahead with the construction of the Nagpur-Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway. "This expressway will be completed after taking all persons into confidence. This expressway will connect major religious and pilgrimage sites along the route. This expressway will not only reduce travel time but also foster economic growth in the region. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 86,300 crore," said the Governor. The government's move comes against the backdrop of protests by farmers and opposition for the development of the Shaktipeeth Expressway, citing that it would adversely impact the agriculture and related activities from Kolhapur and the adjoining areas.

The government has decided to construct 7480 km long roads with cement concretisation under various schemes of the Public Works Department to enhance road durability, improve connectivity and ensure safer and more efficient transportation across the State. The toll collection will be done through FASTag only at all toll plazas across the State from April 1 this year to enhance efficiency, reduce congestion at toll plazas and promote digital transactions.

Under the Centrally Sponsored PM E-Bus Seva Yojana, in the first phase, 1290 buses have been sanctioned for 20 Municipal Corporations, and financial assistance will be provided for developing bus depots in these Municipal Corporations, he said.

The government will implement the new Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy starting from April 1 for the next three years. The New Electric Vehicle Policy includes providing incentives for electric vehicles and encouraging the scrapping of old vehicles. It focuses on reducing the state's carbon footprint and making transportation more eco-friendly.

The government has signed Memorandums of Understanding with 13 agencies for electricity storage and grid stability by implementing Pumped Storage Projects through Public-Private Partnership for 38 projects. Accordingly, these projects will generate 55,970 megawatts of power, and the state is expected to receive an investment of Rs 2.95 lakh crore and create more than 90,000 employment opportunities.

Amid India's net zero commitment by 2070, the state government has installed 3,12,000 solar pumps under the 'Magel Tyala Saur Pump Yojana' to help farmers access water for agriculture through solar-powered pumps in the state. Under this scheme, 10 lakh solar pumps will be provided to the farmers in five years. "Maharashtra has set a target to become the first state in the country to solarize all the agriculture feeders in the state under PM-KUSUM and Mukhyamantri Saur Krushi Vahini Yojana schemes. A total of 119 feeders, with a combined solar power capacity of 147 megawatt have been commissioned in a record time of just nine months," said the Governor.

The government has launched a new scheme called 'Agristack-Digital Public Infrastructure for Agriculture' to facilitate the speedy and effective delivery of various government schemes to farmers using digital services in the agricultural sector of the state. The government has selected more than 95 lakh farmers in the state as beneficiaries under the 'Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sanman Yojana', and more than 87 lakh farmers have been provided Kisan Credit Card facility by banks. This initiative aims to empower farmers with financial support and access to credit facilities.

The government is implementing the 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative to increase women's household income. So far, 17 lakh women have successfully raised their household income to Rs one lakh or above. The goal is to empower 26 lakh rural women to become Lakhpati Didis by the end of 2024-25, the Governor said..

"The government is implementing the National Education Policy 2020, and my government is committed to providing the required financial provisions for this purpose. The government has started the Ghar 'Ghar Constitution Programme' on the occasion of the completion of 75 years of the Constitution of India to raise awareness among the citizens about the Constitution of India as well as their constitutional rights and fundamental duties," he said..

After the Centre government's move to accord status of Classical Language to Marathi, the state government has decided to undertake following programmes -- Classical Marathi Language day, Classical Marathi Language Week, honour of distinguished persons from the field of research in Classical Marathi Language, a documentary showcasing the history of Classical Marathi Language, establishment of Centre of Excellence and Translation Academy.

The Governor said the state government is committed to resolving the Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute and has appointed expert advocates to represent Maharashtra before the Supreme Court to resolve this issue.

The government is implementing educational, healthcare and various other welfare schemes for the Marathi-speaking people in the border areas, the L-G said.
New Delhi, March 3 : Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Monday lauded the significant progress of Bihar under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, emphasising the state's economic transformation in responding to criticism and remarks from the Opposition.

Speaking to IANS, Singh remarked, "You can just guess, back in the day, Bihar's budget was only around Rs 26 to 27 crore, and now it's Rs 3 lakh crore.

"This shows Bihar's growth. Those who fail to see this should remember what Bihar was like before. Roads filled with potholes, and cities in darkness. Today, you can travel from any corner of Bihar to Patna in five hours. This is the work of the double-engine government of Narendra Modi and Nitish Kumar. This is what has given Bihar its identity, and it will continue to do so."

Singh also responded sharply to Tejashwi Yadav's recent jibe at Prime Minister Modi, in which Yadav sarcastically said that with elections approaching, PM Modi would come to Bihar to eat makhana and drink sattu.

Singh countered, "Lalu Ji knows very well the importance of makhana and sattu... along with understanding the history of ransom, abductions, and snatching vehicles from newlyweds. This is no longer Bihar's identity. We proudly say that sattu and makhana are our identity. Makhana has become a superfood worldwide, and sattu is also a superfood."

Regarding a statement by the Bihar Congress in which the party referred to itself as the "A Team," Singh mocked, "Who is the A, B, or C team? The public will decide. Congress is still searching for its existence and leadership. They have neither existence nor leadership."

Furthermore, Singh confirmed that the Bihar BJP has decided on the new state president. "In tomorrow's BJP State Council meeting, it will be officially confirmed that Dilip Jaiswal will be the new state president of Bihar BJP," he said.
New Delhi, March 3 : The Supreme Court on Monday said that PwD (Persons with Disabilities) candidates must not face any discrimination in the judicial services recruitment process and that the government must provide reservations to them to create an inclusive framework.

A Bench of Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan struck down Rule 6A of the Madhya Pradesh Judicial Service (Recruitment and Conditions of Service) Rules, 1994, which excluded visually impaired and no-vision candidates from seeking appointment in the judicial service.

The apex court, in March last year, had registered the suo moto proceedings after a letter petition was addressed to the Chief Justice of India (CJI) by the mother of a visually impaired candidate who aspired for appointment in the judicial service in Madhya Pradesh.

Turning the letter petition into a writ petition under Article 32 of the Constitution, then CJI CJI D.Y. Chandrachud-led Bench had issued notices to the Union government, state government and Registrar General of the MP High Court.

Further, it had requested senior advocate Gaurav Agrawal to assist the court as amicus curiae in the matter.

In an interim order passed subsequently, the Supreme Court had ordered visually impaired candidates who have received the minimum qualifying marks in the preliminary examination to sit for the main examination.

"The High Court shall make arrangements to permit a scribe for each visually impaired candidate who will appear for the main examination. Such candidates shall also be given additional time to complete the examination at the rate of 20 minutes per hour of the examination," it had ordered.

6A, inserted in June 2023, provides that 6 per cent of posts will be horizontally reserved for persons suffering from a locomotor disability, including leprosy cured, dwarfism, muscular dystrophy and acid attack victims, excluding cerebral palsy, as specified under section 34 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (49 of 2016).
Raipur, March 3 : In a major success to the government's ongoing anti-naxal operation, Dinesh Modium, a Naxal commander with a Rs 8 lakh bounty on his head, reportedly surrendered to security forces along with his wife and children.

Raipur, March 3 (IANS) In a major success to the governmentas ongoing anti-naxal operation, Dinesh Modium, a Naxal commander with a Rs 8 lakh bounty on his head, reportedly surrendered to security forces along with his wife and children.

His surrender is seen as a significant blow to the Naxalites' Gangaloor Area Committee.

According to reports, Dinesh Modium, who was wanted for over 100 murders and numerous attacks, surrendered under increasing pressure from security forces.

Home Minister Amit Shah has set a target to make Chhattisgarh Naxal-free by March 31, 2026.

Security forces have been conducting operations to apprehend Naxalites, leading to several arrests and seizures of banned materials.

Dinesh Modium, a resident of Pedda Karma in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, served as both a Gangaloor Area Committee and Divisional Committee member. He surrendered due to the growing pressure from security forces.

Earlier on Friday seven Naxals; with a combined bounty of Rs 3,200,000, including a Naxal couple involved in the Tekalguda Naxal attack of 2021, which claimed the lives of 22 army personnel, surrendered.

Additionally, security forces arrested 18 Naxals on Friday and recovered Naxal materials from Masoor, Bhairamgarh, and Basaguda, as well as 10 other Naxals from the Gunjeparti forest areas of Chhattisgarh.

The Surrender-cum-Rehabilitation policy is part of the overall strategy to build consensus and evolve a peaceful solution to the violence perpetrated by extremist groups, to usher in peace and development, especially in the disturbed regions.

This policy has been developed by the Central Government, considering the specific geographical and social landscape, to help Maoists who want to renounce violence, surrender, and join the mainstream.

The Surrender and Rehabilitation policy is part of multi-pronged conflict management and resolution strategy and is implemented alongside firm police action against those who continue to follow the path of violence. The Madhya Pradesh Naxalite Surrender Rehabilitation cum Relief Policy has been effective since 2023.
Mumbai, March 3 : Actor John Abraham, who is awaiting the release of his film 'The Diplomat' has given a peek into one of the crucial lines from the film ahead of its release.

John spoke with IANS in the run up to the film's release, and broke down his process of approaching his titular character.

The actor told IANS, "There is a very important line in the film that says, 'I am a diplomat by profession, not by character'. So, my character in the film is living two parallel lives. What Shivam (the director) has successfully done is he has shown the life of a diplomat. But, parallelly he has also shown what my character is going through in his personal life. Coming back to how we developed this character, Shivam was very clear from the start. He said, 'I do not want to see John Abraham, I want to see JP Singh'. Now, we all know that I come with the image of being an action hero, I fight on screen".

He continued, "Now, for a director it is challenging to get me into that mould. Yes, we went into that mould in 'Madras Cafe', we went into that mould in probably 'No Smoking', and in 'Parmanu'. So, we have been into that space successfully. What Shivam did was, after we had readings, he put me on to Saurabh Sachdeva, where I started developing myself in terms of the character, JP Singh. Body language, little, little things, dialogue delivery, everything had to be JP Singh.

John further mentioned that Saurabh Sachdeva also met JP Singh, and studied him, and he said, "How do I make this guy into this guy?".

"So, we spent 2 to 3 weeks on just developing me into JP Singh. Then we went back into reading. So, when we went on set, we were 99% there. Then Shivam used to just brief us on the scene but he reminded me after every shot, like after the interrogation scene, he used to push me to think like the character", he added.

Produced by T-Series, 'The Diplomat' is set to release in cinemas on March 14.
The leader of the European Solidarity party, MP Petro Poroshenko, stated that good relations between Ukraine and the United States are in the interests of both parties, since the United States is a strategic partner for Ukraine.

As reported on the website of European Solidarity, commenting on the air of the British TV channel Sky News on the aggravation of relations between the leadership of Ukraine and the United States after the meeting in the Oval Office, Poroshenko said: "Believe me, negotiating with US President Donald Trump is not an easy task at all. But at the same time, I had quite successful negotiations with Trump in 2017, 2018 and 2019. Their result was the supply of lethal weapons, as well as sanctions imposed against Nord Stream 2."

"We must understand that the United States is a strategic partner for Ukraine. For us and for the free democratic world, transatlantic unity is a key factor in our future victory," Poroshenko noted.

He also said that "the only winner from the conflict in the Oval Office on Friday is Vladimir Putin." "This is not good for Ukraine. This is not good for the United States. And the only thing we absolutely need to do urgently now is to restore dialogue between the two strategic partners. We are two great nations. We are two great countries. Dialogue between these countries is vital for Ukraine," Poroshenko said.

He also expressed gratitude for the summit in London to "the UK, the British Prime Minister, the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the French President and all other leaders for the enormous efforts to resume dialogue between Ukraine and the US."

"We must strengthen our negotiating positions. I believe that good relations between Ukraine and the United States are in the interests of both sides. The question is how to stop the war. And I want to assure you: Ukrainians are a nation that strives for peace. We must discuss ways to achieve peace - in Ukraine, in Europe, in the global world and in the United States," Poroshenko believes.
Mumbai, March 3 : Actress Ananya Panday is currently vacationing in Pattaya, a city in Eastern Thailand.

From sharing scenic pictures of beautiful beaches to indulging in local cuisines, Ananya has been giving her followers a glimpse into her fun-filled holiday. On Monday, she posted a photo of her enjoying fresh coconut water and also tagged Pataya as a location. The image also has 31C written on it. In the photo, the 'Student of the Year 2' actress could be seen wearing a yellow outfit with matching earrings. She is seen sipping coconut water while posing for the camera.

Earlier, Ananya had also posted a video showing the stunning view of Thailand. She wrote, "After 24 hours in Melbourne, its time for 24 hours in Thailand."

Prior to this, the 'Call Me Bae' actress had given a sneak peek into her stunning evening in Melbourne. Ananya posted a couple of her photos where she was seen dressed in a black and purple dress. She captioned the post, "An evening in Melbourne", along with a love-kissed emoji.

She also dropped an image of the Melbourne skyline, captioning, "Woke up in," and tagged Melbourne, Australia.

On the professional front, the 26-year-old actress has an exciting lineup of professional commitments ahead. She will star alongside Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan in Karan Singh Tyagi's upcoming film, produced by Dharma Productions. The drama is reportedly based on the life of renowned lawyer C. Sankaran Nair, who fought a legal battle against the British Empire in the 1920s.

In addition, Ananya will also feature in Vivek Soni's "Chand Mera Dil," produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poornawala, and Apoorva Mehta under Dharma Productions. She will share the screen with Lakshya, known for his role in "Kill," in this captivating drama.

Moreover, Ananya will reprise her role as Bella Chowdhary in the second season of the popular series "Call Me Bae."

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Bhopal, March 3 : Madhya Pradesh Minister Prahlad Patel on Monday defended his controversial remark that "people have developed a habit of begging from the government," clarifying that it was his personal opinion and not linked to the BJP.

Patel, who heads the Panchayat and Rural Development Department in the Madhya Pradesh government, said he made the statement at a social program organised by members of his own community. He claimed his remarks were misrepresented.

Speaking to IANS, Patel said, "It wasn't a BJP event, and Congress leaders were also present when I advised my community members to uphold self-respect rather than depend on handouts. I have made this appeal before and will continue to do so."

Patel also hit back at state Congress president Jitu Patwari, accusing him of distorting his words for political gain.

"The BJP has nothing to do with my statement, yet the Congress is trying to defame the party. Jitu Patwari should apologise for his false allegations," Patel added, alleging a conspiracy behind the controversy.

Patwari, responding to Patel's remarks, had accused the BJP of arrogance and insensitivity.

"This is an insult to the struggles of those facing hardship," Patwari said on Sunday. "Before elections, they make false promises. When the people remind them, they shamelessly call them beggars. Let them remember -- soon, these very BJP leaders will come begging for votes."

The controversy erupted after a video of Patelas speech at the unveiling ceremony of Veerangana Rani Avantibai Lodhias statue in Rajgarh district surfaced online.

In the video, Patel is heard saying: "People have developed a habit of begging from the government. Leaders arrive, and they are handed a basket full of petitions. They are garlanded on stage, and a letter is placed in their hands. This is not a good habit. Instead of asking, cultivate the mindset of giving. This will lead to a happier life and help build a cultured society."

He further remarked that this "army of beggars" is weakening society. "Can you name a martyr who has ever begged?" he asked. "Yet, we continue to organise events, make speeches, and move on."
New Delhi, March 3 : Envoys from multiple countries praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting unity and celebrating India's diverse cultural heritage by attending the 25th edition of Jahan-e-Khusrau.

On Friday, PM Modi attended the event organised in honour of the renowned Sufi poet and scholar Amir Khusrau, where he extended advance wishes for Ramzan and lauded Sufi traditions for their message of inclusivity and harmony.

He stressed that Sufi saints have played a key role in shaping India's unique identity by embracing diversity.

After a performance by Sufi artists, he remarked that their music represents a shared cultural heritage, a tradition that has been lived and celebrated together for centuries.

Speaking to IANS, several ambassadors in India, including from Peru, Ecuador, El Salvador, and Guatemala, commended PM Modi's participation in the festival.

Peru's ambassador, Javier Paulinich, said, "I appreciate it very much because the Prime Minister is supporting all kinds of cultural manifestations within India, which is very good for the country."

Stressing the significance of music, Ecuador's Ambassador Fernando Bucheli said, "It's a strong signal that music unites people and fosters tolerance. In this country, which has many religions, I have been delighted to visit various temples since my arrival."

"I also respect the Sikh religion. Last time, I visited the Krishna temple, and I have also visited many Muslim temples. Promoting music in this way is a means to unite people," he added.

Ambassador of El Salvador, Guillermo Rubio Funes, emphasised the importance of the Prime Minister's presence at the festival, stating, "I think it's very important because he supports this festival and all the artists, especially the Sufi musicians. For them, it is significant that he attended."

Ambassador of Guatemala, Omar Lisandro Castaneda Solares, described PM Modi's participation as an honour.

"For many of us who had the great opportunity and privilege to meet him during the festival, it was certainly an unforgettable experience," he told IANS.

Meanwhile, during his address, PM Modi highlighted the pluralistic nature of Sufi traditions, noting that Sufi saints recited Quranic verses while also listening to the Vedas.

During the festival, PM Modi also acknowledged the contributions of several Sufi saints and poets, including Nizamuddin Auliya, Rumi, Raskhan, and Amir Khusrau, for their enduring messages of love and harmony.

He specifically mentioned Raskhan, a poet born into a Muslim family who wrote devotional poems dedicated to Lord Krishna, as an example of India's deep-rooted tradition of cultural inclusivity.
Kochi, March 3 : The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed an appeal filed by the wife of deceased Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, challenging a single-judge bench's refusal to order a CBI probe into his death.

Kochi, March 3 (IANS) The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed an appeal filed by the wife of deceased Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, challenging a single-judge benchas refusal to order a CBI probe into his death.

A Division Bench comprising Justice P.B. Suresh Kumar and Justice Jobin Sebastian rejected the plea, stating that investigations cannot be transferred to the CBI based on personal apprehensions alone.

The court emphasised that a reasonable basis supported by concrete facts is necessary to warrant such a transfer.

"The personal feelings of the victim, however genuine, are not sufficient grounds to justify transferring the investigation. If such transfers are made frequently, it could undermine public faith in the legal system and create an impression that investigations can be influenced or manipulated," the court observed.

The bench further noted that this was not a case where senior state officials or political leaders were accused, nor was there evidence suggesting that an external agency like the CBI would be better positioned to conduct a fair probe.

Following the verdict, Babuas family expressed deep disappointment, stating that key facts were being overlooked in the current investigation. They are now considering their next legal steps.

The senior advocate representing Babuas wife, Manjusha, argued that crucial evidence -- such as blood stains found on his clothes -- was not thoroughly examined. The family insists that only an independent probe can uncover the truth.

Babu was found hanging at his official residence on October 15, 2024, just a day after he was publicly accused of corruption by local CPI(M) leader P.P. Divya. The incident occurred shortly after his official farewell in Kannur.

Divya, then the Kannur District Panchayat President, had attended Babuas farewell event uninvited and accused him of corruption. The allegations were linked to a delay in issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a petrol pump application by T.V. Prasanth, an electrician at Kannur Medical College. Notably, Prasanth was reportedly a colleague of Divyaas husband, raising questions about possible personal motives.

Babuas family maintains that the public accusation caused him immense distress, leading to his untimely death. Under pressure, Divya was later arrested and briefly jailed before resigning from her position.

The Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government, which had initially pledged support to Babuas family, opposed the demand for a CBI probe in court. The state argued that the ongoing investigation was proceeding in the right direction and did not warrant intervention from an external agency.

With the High Court ruling against them, Babuas family now faces the dilemma of whether to pursue further legal action or await the findings of the existing probe.
Kolkata, March 3 : An 11-member Bangladeshi delegation, which is part of the Indo-Bangladesh Joint River Commission, arrived in Kolkata on Monday to discuss the Ganga-Padam water pact.

The team is heading for a review of the Farakka Barrage in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal and reviewing the flow of water from Ganga on the Indian side and Parma on the Bangladesh side, since Farakka Barrage plays the most crucial role as regards water sharing between the two countries.

The Bangladesh team is also accompanied by senior officials from the Union Jal Shakti Ministry during the inspection.

On March 7, a meeting on this count between the representatives of the two neighbouring countries will take place at a hotel in Kolkata.

Sources said that besides the renewal of the Farakka Water Treaty, the critical issues of the Teesta Water Accord might also come up for discussion at the meeting on March 7. The Farakka Water Treaty is due for renewal in 2026.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has already expressed her reservations about the Farakka Water Treaty and Teesta Water Accord. In June last year, she even wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting the latter not to make important bilateral decisions on these two issues without discussing and involving the state government.

In the letter, she claimed that the Farakka Water Treaty delineates the principles of sharing water between Bangladesh and India and has huge implications for the people of West Bengal for maintaining their livelihood. She also claimed that the water, which is diverted at the Farakka Barrage, helps in maintaining the navigability of Kolkata Port.

On the issue of the proposed Teesta Water Sharing accord, the Chief Minister claimed that any bilateral cooperation between India and Bangladesh would largely impact the livelihood of the people in North Bengal, considering that the health of the river has already suffered from the construction of hydroelectric projects in Sikkim.
Mumbai, March 3 : On World Wildlife Day, actress Nimrat Kaur shared a powerful message expressing her deep connection to the natural world.

Through a heartfelt post, the 'Lunchbox' actress conveyed her love for wildlife and the environment. Taking to her Instagram handle, Nimrat posted a video and wrote, "The wild lives in me and I'm most alive in the wild Not that we need a day to celebrate what's arguably the most sacred part of our planet. But here's me longing for the jungles and God's best creationsgiant, invisible, mild, ferocious. Happy World Wildlife Day to us from them all"

The clip captured the actress vacationing surrounded by the beauty of wildlife. In the video, Nimrat can be seen spending time with various animals in their natural habitat, reflecting her deep connection with the wild.

Actress Dia Mirza Rekhi also shared a video emphasizing the importance of protecting the planet's wildlife and ecosystems. For the caption, she wrote, "On World Wildlife Day, let's reflect on our interconnectedness. We share this planet, and well-being of animals is intrinsically linked to ours. From the smallest insect to the largest mammal, every creature plays a vital role in our ecosystem. It's our responsibility to protect their habitats, respect their lives, and foster a harmonious coexistence. Let's pledge to be conscious stewards, ensuring a thriving future for all. Happy #WorldWildlifeDay."

World Wildlife Day, observed annually on March 3, is a global event dedicated to raising awareness about wildlife conservation and the protection of their natural habitats.

Meanwhile, talking about Nimrat Kaur's work front, she was last seen in the action-packed drama "Sky Force," which premiered on January 24. Directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, the film focuses on India's first airstrike during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani war, specifically the attack on the Sargodha airbase in Pakistan.

The movie also stars Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, and Sara Ali Khan.
Tehran, March 3 : Iranian Vice President Javad Zarif, who resigned Sunday night for the second time since his appointment in August last year, said on Monday that he took the decision on advice from the head of the country's judiciary to help relieve pressure on the administration of President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Zarif wrote in a post on X on Monday that he had visited Iranian Judiciary Chief Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei on an invitation by Mohseni Ejei on Saturday. During the meeting, he said, Ejei had advised that given "the conditions of the country, I return to (teaching at) the university to avoid more pressure on the administration."

Zarif said he took the advice immediately because he had always wanted to be "of help and not a burden".

He said he hoped that by leaving the administration, those hindering the realization of "the people's will and the success of the administration" would be stripped of excuses.

"I continue to be proud of having supported the venerable Dr. Pezeshkian and wish him and other true servants of the people the best," he said, the official news agency IRNA reported Monday.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has received Zarif's resignation letter, is yet to respond on the matter.

"Since he was tapped as the Vice President, Zarif has been taking intense heat from a group of lawmakers in Parliament who have argued that his appointment to a sensitive post is illegal because at least one of his children holds US nationality. According to Iranian law, individuals who hold foreign citizenship or whose immediate family members hold such citizenship cannot be assigned to sensitive posts in the Iranian government," IRNA reported.

Iran's Fars news agency reported that a number of Iranian lawmakers had been following up on his "illegal" appointment to the post since the beginning of the administration's term.

Pezeshkian appointed Zarif, a former foreign minister, as Vice President for strategic affairs and head of the Centre for Strategic Studies, in August 2024.

However, Zarif resigned 10 days after his appointment because he was "not satisfied with the result of his work" as head of the steering council that selected the new Iranian administration's cabinet members.

He later withdrew his resignation after Pezeshkian's "prudent" follow-ups and consultations.
Gandhinagar, March 3 : The government is committed to strengthening the coal sector through progressive policy measures such as commercial mining which are opening new avenues for private sector participation and reducing India's dependence on coal imports, Union Minister of State for Coal and Mines, Satish Chandra Dubey, said on Monday.

Speaking at the roadshow for 'Commercial Coal Mine Auctions and Opportunities in the Coal Sectora here, Dubey emphasised that these efforts align with Prime Minister Narendra Modias vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', ensuring a steady and sustainable supply of coal to industries while driving economic growth.

Dubey further highlighted the ministryas commitment to enhanced safety measures for mineworkers, community welfare and regional development, ensuring that coal mining not only fuels industrial growth but also uplifts local communities through employment generation, skill development and social infrastructure projects.

He also reaffirmed the governmentas focus on environmental sustainability, emphasising that coal-mining operations are aligned with strict environmental norms, progressive land reclamation practices, and initiatives like coal gasification to reduce carbon emissions.

The ministry remains committed to fostering an efficient, competitive, and responsible coal-mining ecosystem that balances economic progress with environmental stewardship

The roadshow is part of the ministryas continuous efforts to engage with potential investors, highlighting the vast opportunities in commercial coal mining, and reinforce Indiaas commitment to energy security and self-reliance in the coal sector.

In her welcome address, Rupinder Brar, Additional Secretary and Nominated Authority, Ministry of Coal, emphasised the potential of commercial coal mining in shaping India's energy future. She highlighted that coal will remain a crucial pillar of Indiaas energy security for decades, driving industrial growth and ensuring an uninterrupted power supply.

Furthermore, she stated that the ministry is actively fostering an enabling ecosystem to encourage private sector participation by streamlining processes, offering financial incentives, and enhancing the ease of doing business. She made a special mention of the Single Window Clearance System, stating that it has expedited clearances, and ensured a level playing field for all stakeholders.

The additional secretary also noted that the series of roadshows from Kolkata to Mumbai to Ahmedabad have provided investors with valuable insights into the auction framework and policy landscape. She reaffirmed the governmentas commitment to transparent, investor-friendly policies while also promoting advanced mining technologies, coal gasification, and sustainable mining practices.
Bhubaneswar, March 3 : A tattoo of Lord Jagannath on the thigh of a foreign lady has triggered widespread outrage in Odisha.

Social activist Subrat Kumar Mohani of Bhubaneswar has lodged a complaint against the owner of the tattoo parlour, 'Rocky Tattooz,' located in the Saheed Nagar area of the city, where the controversial tattoo was inked.

Following the complaint, the Saheed Nagar police have registered a case (85/25) under Section 299 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against the shop owner.

"We came across a photo of a foreign woman on the social media account of Rocky Tattooz, where Lord Jagannath's tattoo was seen on her thigh, an objectionable placement. The tattoo has hurt our religious sentiments, and we demand a public apology at Puri," said the complainant.

Amidst the outrage, Rocky Tattooz owner Rockey Ranjan Bisoi and the foreign woman have both issued apologies through separate video messages shared on social media.

"I sincerely apologize as the tattoo was inked in our studio. I also seek forgiveness on behalf of the artist who created it. The woman, an Italian national, visited our shop on Saturday, expressing her deep devotion to Lord Jagannath and requesting the tattoo. She specifically asked for it to be placed on her thigh as she works in an NGO where tattoos in visible areas of the body are not permitted," said Bisoi.

Bisoi added that he had contacted the woman and advised her to either remove the tattoo or get another one over it. However, she will be able to return only after 25 days, as immediate removal could lead to infection.

Meanwhile, the foreign lady has also expressed regret in a video statement. "I never intended to be disrespectful. I am not only a devotee of Lord Jagannath but also visit the temple daily. I made a mistake, and for that, I am truly sorry," she said.

The Saheed Nagar police have launched an investigation into the matter.
Mumbai, March 3 : Actor Parzan Dastur, who essayed the role of the kid in the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai', has made an appearance in the latest brand film for Bollywood superstar's IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders.

Mumbai, March 3 (IANS) Actor Parzan Dastur, who essayed the role of the kid in the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer aKuch Kuch Hota Haia, has made an appearance in the latest brand film for Bollywood superstaras IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders.

On Monday, SRK took to the Stories section of his instagram, and shared the video. The promotional video was pegged on KKRas three title wins in the IPL. Towards the end of the video Parzan Dastur also makes an appearance harping back to his character in the film counting the stars.

Meanwhile, aDil To Pagal Haia starring SRK was re-released recently. The film, which also starred Madhuri Dixit and Karisma Kapoor, was directed by legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, and bagged three National Awards. At the 45th National Film Awards, the film won 3 awards, including Best Popular Film. Karisma Kapooras performance as Nisha won her the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress.

The film is known for its soulful music, mesmerizing dance sequences, and unforgettable dialogues, and remains a cult favorite among fans of Bollywood romance. The film follows the love lives of the members of a musical troupe, in which two dancers (Madhuri Dixit and Karisma Kapoor) get entangled in a love triangle with their choreographer (played by SRK). The soundtrack was composed by Uttam Singh, and the lyrics were penned by Anand Bakshi.

The film was the second of Yash Chopra's 4 consecutive films to star Shah Rukh Khan as the male lead. The other two were Veer-Zara and his last directorial aJab Tak Hai Jaana. aDil To Pagal Haia was the third film to feature SRK opposite Madhuri Dixit, after aAnjaama and aKoylaa.

Sridevi was initially offered to play the role of Pooja, but she declined as she did not find her role as substantial as that in aLamhea, and the role eventually went to Madhuri. The film also starred Akshay Kumar in a cameo bringing the rare instance when two superstars of Hindi cinema from Delhi shared the screen.
China to advance space station application and manned lunar landing preparations in 2025: CMSA

16:41, March 03, 2025 By Fan Anqi ( Global Times

China Manned Space Agency signs an agreement with Pakistan on selecting and training Pakistani astronauts for future flight missions to Tiangong space station. (Photo/CCTV)

In 2025, China will continue to advance two major missions - the application and development of the China Space Station and preparations for manned lunar landing before 2030. Currently, crews for the two manned missions entering China Space Station this year have already been selected and are under training, while various research and construction tasks for landing taikonauts on the moon are progressing steadily as planned, the Global Times learned from China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) on Monday.

At present, the China Space Station is operating stably in orbit, yielding significant results, according to a CMSA statement. Since the completion of the station, it has successfully received four crewed missions, three cargo resupply missions, and four spacecraft return missions. The five crews, comprising 15 taikonauts in total, have conducted long-duration stays in orbit.

To date, there have been 11 extravehicular activities (EVAs) and multiple extravehicular payload deployments, as well as various extravehicular maintenance tasks, setting a new world record for the longest duration of a single EVA.

Additionally, China has completed the selection of the fourth batch of reserve taikonauts, including two payload specialists from the Hong Kong and Macao SARs, initiated the development of a cost-effective cargo transportation system, and released the first-ever progress report detailing the scientific research and applications conducted in the space station.

For 2025, China has planned two manned missions and one cargo resupply mission. The crews for the two manned flights have already been selected and are undergoing training, the agency revealed on Monday.

To date, the China Space Station has conducted more than 180 space science research and application projects in orbit, covering areas such as space life sciences and human research, microgravity physics, and space technology innovations, yielding numerous groundbreaking achievements.

On Friday, the CMSA signed an agreement with Pakistan on selecting and training Pakistani astronauts for future flight missions to Tiangong space station, opening a new chapter in deepening cooperation in the manned space sector between the two countries. This marked the very first step of China selecting and training foreign astronauts to participate in the country's space station flight missions.

According to the plan, both sides will complete the selection process in about one year, and the selected Pakistani candidate will receive comprehensive training in China. Afterward, the Pakistani astronaut will enter the Tiangong space station to carry out short-term flight missions alongside Chinese taikonauts in the next few years per the flight mission schedule, the CMSA revealed.

Meanwhile, aiming to achieve China's first crewed lunar landing before 2030, the preparation work for the lunar exploration program is progressing steadily. Key products such as the Long March-10 carrier rocket, the Mengzhou crewed spacecraft, the Lanyue lunar lander, the Wangyu lunar spacesuit, and the Tansuo crewed lunar rover are all in the prototype development stage, with significant progress achieved.

The construction of launch-related test and support facilities at the Wenchang Space Launch Site is also progressing in an orderly manner, while the overall plans for ground systems, including telemetry, tracking and communications, and the landing site, have been completed, with subsequent construction projects set to follow.

For the next step, large-scale prototype testing will be a key focus for these major flight products, the CMSA said. To enhance the quality and efficiency of the program's development, the lunar landing mission will promote the digitalization of engineering processes.

Since the inception of China's manned space program, it has adhered to the principles of peaceful use, equality and mutual benefit, and common development, striving to share the benefits of China's advancements with humanity. By actively opening opportunities aboard the China Space Station, China continues to contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind, the agency noted.

The recent cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan on astronaut selection and training provides a model for other developing countries to participate in international manned space cooperation. This collaboration is expected to inspire more nations to join hands in exploring the mysteries of the universe and to write a new chapter in advancing space exploration for the benefit of humankind.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has threatened to block the European Union summit on Thursday to approve financial and military aid to Ukraine, Ceske Novyny reports.

He intends to do this if the leaders of the European bloc do not support Bratislava's demand for the EU's call on Kyiv to resume natural gas transit through its territory.

"It may happen that I will block the adoption of conclusions on large-scale financial and military assistance to Ukraine in connection with the war," Fico said.

At the same time, he allowed the possibility of a compromise on Bratislava's proposal for gas transit through Ukraine.

Ukraine stopped transporting Russian gas in early 2025 after the expiration of the relevant contract with the Russian side. After Russian attacks on its gas infrastructure, Ukraine started importing gas from Slovakia. Kyiv justified the suspension of transit by saying that Moscow receives funds to finance the war in Ukraine through gas exports.

Fico called the situation when Ukraine stopped the transit of Russian gas through its territory and now imports it through gas pipelines from the EU a comedy and a mockery of common sense.

Slovakia would also like to add to the conclusions of the EU summit a provision on the need for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine. Fico considers previous meetings of representatives of some European countries on Ukraine to be meetings in the interests of continuing the war. At the same time, he rejected initiatives aimed at arming Ukraine. According to him, this strategy has not yet worked and Slovakia will not participate in it.

"While most EU member states are in favor of continuing the war, Slovakia is in favor of peace. I reject the cries that Ukraine is fighting for us. Ukraine is harming us because it has taken measures that have increased the price of gas. Without gas from the east, we have no chance of being competitive," Fico said.

According to Fico, Slovakia has no objections to the proposed conclusions of the EU summit, which concern strengthening the European bloc's defense capabilities. In this context, Bratislava would welcome exceptions to EU budgetary rules and the possibility of using money for defense, as well as for civilian-military projects.
Patna, March 3 : Ahead of the 2025-26 Bihar budget presentation, Opposition MLCs led by former Chief Minister Rabri Devi staged a protest in the Legislative Council Portico on Monday.

The RJD-led Opposition attacked the Nitish Kumar government, demanding the inclusion of key welfare schemes in the budget. Rabri Devi advocated an increase in old age and widow pensions.

"The current pension of 400 per month should be increased to 1,500 for elderly widow citizens," she said.

Apart from that, Rabri Devi also advocated for 2,500 monthly pension to women of all castes, and financial relief for farmers and households by facilitating 200 units of free electricity to them.

"The Nitish Kumar government should make a provision in the budget to provide LPG cylinders at 500 through subsidies apart from support for women and differently-abled persons. The Divyang (disabled) pension should be increased to 1,000 per month," Rabri Devi said.

RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav had also slammed the government a day earlier, accusing it of failing to increase pensions for the elderly and disabled despite Nitish Kumar being in power for 20 years.

He claimed that corruption and mismanagement had drained the state treasury, leading to delayed pension payments for months. He also cited Lalu Prasad Yadav's tenure when the old age pension was increased from 10 to 20 as an example of past governance efforts.

Tejashwi proposed to the NDA government to adopt RJD's 'Mai-Behan Maan Yojana', a direct financial assistance scheme for women.

The protests and Opposition parties' demands set the stage for a heated Budget Session as Deputy CM and Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary prepares to present a historic budget exceeding 3 lakh crore.

With the Bihar Assembly elections approaching, this budget is seen as a crucial pre-election policy document. All eyes are now on what announcements the Nitish Kumar government will make in response to these demands.
New Delhi, March 3 : In a heartfelt gesture to bring the sacredness of Maha Kumbh to those who couldn't attend, the organisers have made it a point to make available the holy Ganga water to far-off locations including Ayodhya and Noida. Those who couldn't attend the Maha Kumbh celebrations, for whatsoever reasons, got a chance to lay claim to the 'Ganga jal' without walking a mile as this has been brought to their doors.

After the conclusion of the Maha Kumbh, which concluded on the auspicious day of Maha Shivratri, this initiative to ferry holy waters of Triveni Sangam from Prayagraj was started for the people who couldn't make it to the pilgrimage.

The government's initiative is receiving all-round appreciation, particularly among the locals in Ayodhya and Noida, who are thrilled by the gesture.

Talking to IANS, one local resident in Ayodhya said: "I feel blessed to receive the Ganga Jal. We couldn't attend the Maha Kumbh due to various reasons, but now we feel connected to it. I plan to share this water with my family and sprinkle it around our home to bring blessings."

Another resident echoed similar sentiments, saying, "This is a wonderful initiative by the government. To receive 'Ganga Jal' at our doorstep makes me feel proud. I'm honored to have it in my home."

MP Singh, the Chief Fire Officer in Ayodhya, explained how the distribution of Gangajal was being done in areas.

He said, "The fire brigade vehicles that were deployed in Prayagraj during the Maha Kumbh returned with Ganga Jal. Today, we held a distribution ceremony under the guidance of senior officers. These vehicles carried four and a half thousand litres of holy water, and we began distributing it this morning. Around one-third of the water has already been given out, and the programme will continue until it's all distributed."

Similarly, Noida residents were equally moved with the initiative. In Sector 52, a tanker full of Ganga water arrived at the community hall. Long queues of locals was seen waiting to receive the holy water.

One Noida resident expressed gratitude, saying, "This is a great step by the government for those of us who couldn't make it to the Kumbh. We are now able to receive the holy water right here in our own locality."

Another local remarked, "This initiative is a reflection of our rich spiritual heritage. The government has ensured that people can connect with the sacredness of the Kumbh and feel a deeper sense of belonging to 'Sanatan Dharma.'"

The Maha Kumbh, which officially concluded on February 26, saw more than 660 million pilgrims gather in Prayagraj for a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam, making it the largest human gathering in the world. Even after the festival's conclusion, the sacred waters continue to flow to devotees, extending the spiritual blessings of the event far beyond its physical end.

This distribution of Ganga water serves as a symbolic gesture of inclusion, ensuring that the divine experience of the Maha Kumbh reaches those who, for various reasons, could not be part of this historic gathering. The government's efforts are seen as a way to keep the spirit of the Kumbh alive in the hearts of people across the country.
Patna, March 3 : Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary on Monday presented a Rs 3.16 lakh crore budget for the financial year 2025-26 in the Legislative Assembly.

The budget prioritises economic growth, infrastructure, welfare programs, and education, with significant allocations for rural development, healthcare, and women's empowerment.

Choudhary said that this yearas budget is Rs 38,000 crore higher than the previous year. He noted that the fiscal deficit remains below the prescribed 3 per cent limit, while estimated government revenue stands at Rs 2.60 lakh crore -- Rs 34,000 crore more than last year.

Key allocations include Rs 25,262 crore for economic services and Rs 1,000 crore for the Bihar Student Credit Card scheme.

The government will also repay Rs 2,819 crore in loans this year, of which Rs 1,600 crore will be covered by the Centre.

The government will launch a Pink Bus Service in major cities, exclusively for women, with female drivers and conductors.

A "Mahila Hut" in Patna will support women entrepreneurs. Scholarships for SC/ST and backward students will be doubled.

A Cancer Hospital will be established in Begusarai, which has the highest number of cancer patients in Bihar.

New degree colleges in every block, hostels for working women, and dental colleges under the PPP (Public-Private Partnership) model will be established.

The government has announced the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Tur, Moong, and Urad dal. Rs 4,012 crore has been allocated to Panchayati Raj bodies and Rs 2,160 crore to municipal bodies to ensure balanced rural and urban growth.

Flights from Purnea Airport will commence within three months, the Finance Minister said.

Before presenting the budget, Choudhary performed a religious ritual at his homeas Devsthal (prayer space).

With assembly elections approaching, this pre-election budget appears aimed at bolstering Nitish Kumaras governance image and showcasing Biharas cooperation with the Centre under PM Narendra Modi. The focus on women, farmers, youth, and infrastructure suggests an effort to appeal to a broad voter base.

Following the budget speech, CM Nitish Kumar was visibly pleased, applauding Choudhary and patting him on the back. Ruling party members were seen cheering in the House after the budget announcements.
Bengaluru, March 3 : Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said on Monday that the Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has directed the party members not to discuss the change in the state's Chief Minister's post.

Speaking to the media in the Vidhana Soudha premises, Shivakumar responded to journalists' questions regarding power sharing. He stated, "Kharge has instructed us not to discuss the issue of power sharing, and I am committed to his words."

When asked about former Union Minister Veerappa Moily's statement that no one can stop him from becoming the Chief Minister, Shivakumar replied, "Veerappa Moily has expressed his personal opinion. I will not comment on it, nor is there any need to discuss it."

However, BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra reacted by stating that Moily had indicated Shivakumar would soon become the Chief Minister. Additionally, a Congress MLA claimed that Shivakumar would assume the Chief Minister's position in December. Vijayendra pointed out that during the winter session in Belagavi, Shivakumar had stated on the floor of the house that an astrologer had advised him to seize power forcefully if it was not given to him.

"Now, Shivakumar has reminded us of that statement. To whom was this reminder directed? That is a question Shivakumar must answer. Regarding the film festival controversy, he warned that he would 'tighten the screws' on film artistes. However, this statement was not meant for the film industryit was directed at Congress leaders who are obstructing his path to the Chief Minister's post," Vijayendra claimed.

"I am stating clearly that the competition for the Chief Minister's post within the Congress party will only intensify. There is no doubt that Karnataka will witness swift political developments in the coming days," he added.

Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge stated on Monday that neither Veerappa Moily nor any other leader had specified a timeline for Shivakumar to become the Chief Minister.

"They are not saying Shivakumar will become Chief Minister today at noon or tomorrow. They are simply acknowledging that one day he will be rewarded for his hard work. So be it. The high command will decide that. If I make a statement before the media, does that mean it will happen? Our responsibilities are clearSiddaramaiah is the Chief Minister, Shivakumar is the KPCC President and Deputy Chief Minister, and I am the Minister. We each have defined roles," said Kharge.

"I may want someone to become the CM one day. Whoever has worked hard will be rewarded, whether today or tomorrow," he added.

Commenting on Congress MLA Basavaraju Shivaganga's statement that Shivakumar would become CM in December, Kharge said, "That is his opinion. But such opinions should be expressed where they hold valuewithin the high command."

BJP MLC C.T. Ravi, responding to Veerappa Moily's statement, said: "If Shivakumar's party decides and the MLAs support him, he can become the Chief Minister. But do not insult the sitting Chief Minister. He is presenting the budget on March 7. If he is labeled an 'outgoing Chief Minister,' what respect and honour will remain for the budget he is presenting? We are not dismissing Veerappa Moily's statementswe are from the BJP. However, seeing the plight of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, a senior leader, we feel sorry for him. This is not just about the power-sharing agreement within Congress. Do not undermine the dignity of the Chief Minister's Office."

Minister for Large and Medium Industries M.B. Patil stated: "Mallikarjkun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi are therethey are the final authority. Moily is a senior leader of the party. The high command will take action regarding his statement. If you have questions about whether it was a pre-determined decision, ask him directly. I will not comment on it. He is a former Chief Minister and a former Union Minister. You should ask him about it. We are not aware of any power-sharing formula," he clarified.

Minister for Labour Santosh Lad stated: "All these matters are left to the high command. Moily has expressed his opinion, and two or three MLAs out of 140 may have also voiced theirs. Everyone's opinion is important. I cannot express my personal opinion, nor am I in a position to do so. In the end, everyone must come to the party platform."
Hyderabad, March 3 : Eminent environmental activist Medha Patkar's visit to a house in an area near the Musi River in Hyderabad sent the police into a tizzy on Monday.

Hyderabad, March 3 (IANS) Eminent environmental activist Medha Patkaras visit to a house in an area near the Musi River in Hyderabad sent the police into a tizzy on Monday.

Scores of police personnel reached a house in Shankar Nagar, Old Malakpet area following information about her presence.

Her visit set off speculations that she may visit the Musi Riverfront Development Project and meet people likely to be affected by the project.

Alert police officers including women rushed to the house. Though the activist told police officers that she was only visiting a friend, they advised her to leave the area.

The police later escorted her out of the area close to the Musi River bank.

Medha Patkar, who is famous for Narmada Bachao Andolan, was in the city to speak at the all-India convention of the National Alliance of Peopleas Movements (NAPM).

It was in Shankar Nagar that the authorities began the demolition of houses in October last year for the Musi River project. About 163 houses were demolished by the municipal authorities.

The Telangana government has prepared plans for development along the 55 km stretch of the river. Thousands of residents in the areas along the banks of the river fear evictions.

The opposition parties have claimed that the project may result in the displacement of more than a lakh people. They also questioned the governmentas reported plans to spend Rs 1.5 lakh crore on the project.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, who envisions development along the Musi River on the lines of the Thames River in London, defended the project saying it is aimed at rejuvenating the river

The Chief Minister said that Musi, which was once supplying drinking water, had now turned into a drain spewing poison.

He said more than 1,600 houses were identified in the Musi bed and the government has sanctioned houses for people shifted from the river and also given them money. He also announced that 10,000 families in the buffer zone of Musli will also be rehabilitated.
Mumbai, March 3 : The stock of Reliance Group companies saw a significant decline on Monday, eroding more than Rs 40,000 crore from their market capitalisation.

The total market-cap of these companies dropped by Rs 40,511.91 crore, bringing it down to Rs 17.46 lakh crore.

The sharp losses were part of a broader weakness in the market, with all stocks within the group registering losses.

Sterling & Wilson Renewable Energy Limited led the fall, followed by Just Dial Limited and Balaji Telefilms Limited, which were among the biggest losers.

Reliance Industries Limited, the flagship company of the Reliance Group, was the third biggest loser in the Nifty 50.

The company contributed significantly to the decline in the Nifty index, and is the second largest weightage stock in the benchmark index.

Reliance Industries' market capitalisation fell by Rs 35,319.49 crore, dropping to Rs 15.89 lakh crore.

The company has now seen two consecutive days of decline, following a three-day losing streak earlier in the week, excluding Thursdayas session.

Reliance Industries shares closed at Rs 1,174 with a Rs 26.10 or 2.17 per cent drop.

Other notable losses included Just Dial, which saw its shares drop by Rs 54, or 6.43 per cent, closing at Rs 786.25.

Shares of Sterling & Wilson Renewable Energy fell by Rs 15.65, or 6.13 per cent, closing at Rs 239.80.

Jio Finance also experienced a decline, with its shares falling by Rs 6.31, or 3.04 per cent, to close at Rs 201.30.

Balaji Telefilms Limited closed at Rs 50.74, down by Rs 2.67 or 5 per cent, while Alok Industries Limited saw a drop of Rs 0.51, or 3.32 per cent, with shares closing at Rs 14.85.

Meanwhile, the domestic equity indices finished the intra-day trading session almost flat on Monday in a choppy session amid mixed global cues.

In the early trade, both the indices were in the positive territory, but momentum quickly shifted to the downside.
Peshawar, March 4 : A driver was killed and at least two Pakistani soldiers injured during violent clashes witnessed at the Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan which remained closed for the 10th consecutive day on Monday.

The fresh clashes took place at a time when both sides recently reached an agreement to reopen the border crossing on Sunday (March 2). However, despite the agreement, the key trade Torkham crossing remained closed and fresh clashes erupted on Monday morning.

Pakistani security officials confirmed the firing incidents and clashes at the Torkham border crossing, stating that tensions continue to rise.

Sources in the area have also confirmed a heavy exchange of fire between both sides.

"Heavy exchange of firing between Pakistani and Afghan border security started during Sunday night. Both sides have used heavy weapons. The locals in the area are also severely scared because some of the projectiles have also hit residential areas and have damaged houses situated near the border," said a resident of Landi Kotal, the last locality near Torkham on Pakistan side of the border.

The Torkham border has been closed for the past 10 days after Pakistani authorities identified construction of new border outpost by the Afghan Taliban. Pakistan called on Afghan authorities to make sure that the existing border structure is honoured and respected, adding that previous protocols regarding any change in the existing border, have to be brought into practice.

While the border remains closed, Islamabad remains optimistic that the issue would be resolved anytime during this week.

"We are willing to reopen the border. But the Afghan officials have requested for some more time to discuss the matter with their higher authorities," said one of the security personnel posted at the Torkham border.
New Delhi, March 3 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Monday issued a show-cause notice to One97 Communications Ltd, the parent company of Paytm, its Managing Director Vijay Shekhar Sharma and others for violating certain provisions of the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA, 1999) worth Rs 611 crore.

The show-cause notice has been issued by the Special Director of Enforcement (Adjudication), New Delhi to Paytm's flagship company One97 Communications Limited (OCL), its Managing Director and other Paytm subsidiary companies -- Little Internet Private Limited (LIPL) and Nearbuy India Private Limited (NIPL) -- for the contraventions of the provisions of FEMA, 1999, to the tune of around Rs 611 crore.

The investigation conducted by ED revealed that Paytm's flagship company "had made foreign investment in Singapore and did not file necessary reporting to RBI for creation of overseas step-down subsidiary".

"Further, OCL had also received Foreign Direct Investment from overseas investors without following proper pricing guidelines stipulated by RBI," according to an ED statement.

OCL's subsidiary company in India, Little Internet had also received Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from overseas investors without following the pricing guidelines stipulated by RBI, according to the regulator.

"Nearbuy India Pvt Ltd, another subsidiary of OCL, did not report the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) received by the company within the time frame prescribed by the RBI," said the ED.

The show-cause notice has been issued to initiate the adjudication proceedings under FEMA, 1999.

Earlier, Paytm had said it would seek resolution of alleged FEMA contraventions related to two acquired subsidiaries -- Little Internet Private Limited (LIPL) and Nearbuy India Private Limited (NIPL).

The company said in a stock exchange filing that certain alleged contraventions are attributable to these subsidiaries for transactions during a period before they became part of Paytm.

Paytm said that it was seeking legal advice and evaluating appropriate remedies through available regulatory processes.
New Delhi, March 3 : External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar (EAM) will visit the United Kingdom and Ireland from March 4-9, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Monday.

"India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has strengthened across diverse areas including defence and security, trade and economy, health, education, people-to-people ties. During the visit, EAM will be holding discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Secretary David Lammy and will meet several other dignitaries as well as Indian community members," read a statement issued by the MEA.

"India and Ireland share friendly bilateral relations based on shared democratic values, cultural ties and growing economic engagements. EAM will be meeting with his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, other dignitaries and members of Indian community, during his visit to Ireland on Mach 6-7. EAM's visit will provide renewed impetus to India's friendly ties with both UK and Ireland," it added.

EAM Jaishankar and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy had met in Rome last November, ahead of the Outreach session of the G7 Foreign Ministers' Meeting hosted by Italy where India had been invited as a guest country.

"Appreciate the steady momentum in India UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Discussed deepening cooperation in technology, green energy, trade, mobility, as well as ongoing developments in Indo-Pacific and West Asia," the EAM posted on X after meeting Lammy on November 25.

The meeting had taken place just a few days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and British PM Keir Starmer met on the sidelines of the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro and had reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

As he announced the establishment of two new Consulates General of India in the United Kingdom in Belfast and Manchester, PM Modi had labeled the meeting with Starmer as an "extremely productive" one.

"For India, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the UK is of immense priority. In the coming years, we are eager to work closely in areas such as technology, green energy, security, innovation and technology. We also want to add strength to trade as well as cultural linkages," said Prime Minister Modi after the first meeting between the two leaders.
New Delhi, March 3 : A new hydrogen fuel cell-based backup power solution for telecom towers is set to revolutionise the industry by providing a cleaner, more efficient alternative to traditional diesel generators, the government said on Monday.

This innovative plug-and-play system aligns with India's renewable energy goals while ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for millions of users across the country, according to Ministry of Science and Technology.

"India is home to over a million telecom towers, many of which are located in remote areas where maintaining continuous operations can be challenging due to limited access to the power grid," the ministry added.

It added that for years, diesel generators have been used as backup power sources. However, these generators are costly, inefficient, and contribute significantly to carbon emissions, making them less suitable in the long term.

The solution to this problem lies in Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells, which offer an environmentally friendly, efficient, and reliable energy source.

These fuel cells generate electricity by using hydrogen as fuel, producing only water vapour as a by-product.

They also have the advantage of quick start-up times, operate at relatively low temperatures, and require much less maintenance than diesel generators, making them a promising option for telecom towers, especially in areas without reliable grid power.

The fuel cell technology works by an electrochemical reaction, where hydrogen gas is fed into the anode, oxidised to release protons, and then travels through a polymer membrane to the cathode.

Here, it reacts with oxygen to generate electricity and water, providing a clean energy solution, the Ministry added.

In line with global environmental efforts, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) have been encouraging greener energy alternatives for telecom towers.

TRAI's 2012 directive mandates that at least 50 per cent of rural telecom towers and 33 per cent of urban towers switch to hybrid renewable energy sources.

Integrating PEM fuel cells with telecom towers supports this vision, offering an eco-friendly backup system.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. On March 3, Olzhas Bektenov, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, visited Victory Park in Baku, Trend reports.

A guard of honor was lined up for the Kazak Prime Minister in the park.

Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov laid a wreath at the Victory Monument.

PM Bektenov was briefed on Victory Park, which was built to honor the unparalleled valor of the Azerbaijani people during the Patriotic War, commemorate the historic Victory, and pay tribute to the sacred memory of Azerbaijani martyrs. It was noted that the Victory Arch, symbolizing the 44-day Patriotic War, stands 44 meters high, 22 meters wide, and is adorned with 44 columns at the parks entrance.

On November 8, 2024, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attended the inauguration of Victory Park in Baku.
Mumbai, March 3 : Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda, who is known for his work in 'Sarbjit', 'Sultan', 'Jannat 2', 'Extraction', 'Laal Rang' and 'Highway', is celebrating World Wildlife Day.

Randeep Hooda's clicks on World Wildlife Day capture the raw beauty of the wilderness

Mumbai, March 3 (IANS) Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda, who is known for his work in 'Sarbjit', 'Sultan', 'Jannat 2', 'Extraction', 'Laal Rang' and 'Highway', is celebrating World Wildlife Day.

On Monday, the actor took to his Instagram, and shared a series of wildlife pictures clicked by himself. The post features pictures of a tiger, a few birds and a deer.

Expressing his gratitude for experiencing nature up close, he posted a reflective message alongside stunning visuals of the wild.

"On this World Wildlife Day, I reflect on the incredible privilege I've had to witness and capture the beauty of wildlife, especially the majestic tigers, through my lens".

He further mentioned, "The jungle has become my second home, where I've seen firsthand how intricate and self-sustaining the ecosystem truly is. Nature follows its laws with such precision, from the smallest creatures to the largest predators. Every moment spent in the wild reminds me of how beautifully interconnected everything is. It's a world full of wonder, and I'm grateful to be a part of preserving it. #WorldWildlifeDay".

Randeep is an avid wildlife photographer and conservationist, and has long been an advocate for environmental protection. His deep connection with nature is evident in his consistent efforts to raise awareness about the need to preserve biodiversity.

Earlier, the actor started dubbing for his upcoming project 'Jaat' in Mumbai. The film is directed by Gopichand Malineni, and promises to deliver an adrenaline-fueled cinematic experience. The film also stars Sunny Deol, Vineet Kumar Singh, Saiyami Kher, and Regina Cassandra. The action choreography is done by Anal Arasu, Ram Laxman, and Venkat, who deliver a visual feast of exhilarating combat.

Produced by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory, the film will be released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu on April 10, 2025.
Naypyidaw, Mar 3 : Myanmar Prime Minister Min Aung Hlaing left for Moscow with other top ministers and military officials of the country on an official visit to Russia on Monday.

According to the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to hold talks with the visiting Myanmar PM on Tuesday.

"Prospects for the further development of mutually beneficial Russian-Myanmar cooperation, as well as international issues, will be discussed," read a statement issued by the Russian President's office.

Following the talks, both sides are planned to adopt a joint statement and sign a number of intergovernmental and interdepartmental documents.

The previous meeting between the two leaders took place in Vladivostok in the fall of 2022, when PM Aung Hlaing was attending the Eastern Economic Forum.

Russia has expressed its willingness to invest in the war-ravaged country. In January, Russia held discussions with Myanmar on investing in the Dawei Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the Tanintharyi Region in southern Myanmar.

Last week, Myanmar and Russia signed a memorandum on investment cooperation in the special economic zone in Dawei, including the construction of a port and an oil refinery, according to a statement by Russia's Ministry of Economic Development.

Considering Myanmar as a longtime and reliable partner in Southeast Asia, Russia has sought to intensify strategic rapprochement with the country.

In an interview with TASS in 2024, PM Aung Hlaing said Russia is helping Myanmar keep its army at a modern level and cooperation in the security sphere has been broad between the two countries.

"Security cooperation has been most actively developing of late. On the one hand, it includes close contacts with the Myanmar armed forces, and on the other hand cooperation in technology exchange and personnel training. Russia helps Myanmar maintain its army at a modern level. A big number of Myanmar military is educated in scientific-technical and military guidelines in Russian universities. It is the biggest sphere of our interaction," said Hlaing.
Chennai, March 3 : A Class 12 student in Tamil Nadu attempted suicide by self-immolation in the early hours of Monday, just before her board exams were set to begin.

The incident took place in Tiruvallur, where the student, who had been studying late into the night, went to the rooftop of her home, poured petrol over herself, and set herself ablaze. Her parents, upon discovering the fire, rushed her to Tiruvallur Government Medical College Hospital, where she received initial treatment. She was later referred to Kilpauk Government Medical College Hospital for advanced care.

The student is currently battling for life with severe burn injuries. The Tiruvallur police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident.

Authorities are also probing the possible reasons behind her drastic step, as she had scored an impressive 92 per cent in her Class 10 board exams.

Meanwhile, Tamil Naduas School Education Minister, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi said that 8.21 lakh Class 12 students appeared for the exams on Monday (March 3). Additionally, 8.23 lakh Class 11 students will take their exams from March 5, and 9.13 lakh Class 10 students will appear from March 28, bringing the total number of candidates to over 25.57 lakh. Among them, 20,746 students with disabilities will also be taking the exams. The Class 12 exams will conclude on March 25, the Class 11 exams on March 27, and the Class 10 exams on April 15.

The Department of Government Examination (DGE) has tentatively scheduled the results to be declared on April 9 for Class 12 and April 19 for Classes 11 and 10. To ensure the smooth conduct of the exams, a district-level examination committee will be formed under the respective district collectors. The committee will oversee essential arrangements, including adequate drinking water and uninterrupted power supply at exam centres.

Over 45,000 teachers will be deployed for exam-related duties, and more than 4,800 flying squads will be engaged to prevent malpractice. A full-time exam control room has been set up at the DGE headquarters, operating from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on exam days. This facility is open to students, parents, and the public for any queries, complaints, or clarifications.

Additionally, students experiencing stress or anxiety related to the exams are encouraged to use the dedicated helpline numbers: 94983-83075 and 94983-83076.

The School Education Minister urged students to seek help when needed and assured them that all necessary support would be provided.

To maintain exam integrity, the use of mobile phones has been strictly prohibited within the exam centre premises, both for students and invigilators. The tragic incident in Tiruvallur highlights the immense academic pressure students face during board exams. Authorities are now investigating whether stress played a role in the studentas extreme step. The government continues to urge students to reach out for support and counselling if they are struggling with exam-related anxiety.
Kolkata, March 3 : Situation remained peaceful in colleges and universities across West Bengal on Monday amid a strike call given by the Students' Federation of India (SFI) after two students of Jadavpur University were hospitalised after being allegedly hit by the vehicle of the West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu within the university campus last week.

Kolkata, March 3 (IANS) Situation remained peaceful in colleges and universities across West Bengal on Monday amid a strike call given by the Studentsa Federation of India (SFI) after two students of Jadavpur University were hospitalised after being allegedly hit by the vehicle of the West Bengal Education Minister Bratya Basu within the university campus last week.

However, there were also sporadic events of tension and inter-union scuffles reported from various districts of West Bengal,

The Uccha Madhyamik (Higher Secondary) examination conducted by the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education, which started on Monday, also went on peacefully as the examination centers have been kept out of the purview of the strike.

On Monday, the SFI activists staged a protest demonstration in front of gate number four of Jadavpur University. However, no tension was reported there also on Monday.

Although classes were not conducted at the arts stream of the university, the scheduled examination for the first year students of the engineering stream was conducted peacefully.

Protest demonstrations by the SFI activists were conducted in front of Calcutta University and Jadavpur University. Tension was reported from Vidyasagar University in the West Midnapore district, following scuffles between the activists of SFI and Trinamool Chhatra Parishad, the studentsa wing of Trinamool Congress.

Similar clashes were also reported at Midnapore College and Panskura College in the same district.

The maximum impact of the strike was felt in North Bengal University and the colleges affiliated with it. Sporadic clashes between SFI and TMCP activists were also reported from the area, which led to minor injuries from activists from both sides.

On Saturday, a ruckus broke out after the ministeras car was allegedly stopped after it entered the campus, and a scuffle followed. The students were demanding immediate elections for the universityas studentsa council.

The agitating students alleged that while Basu decided to leave the campus in the face of the protests by the students, however, his vehicle deliberately hit the two agitating students following which they were severely injured and had to be hospitalised.

However, amid the protests, the Minister also received minor injuries and fell sick. He was taken to the state-run S.S.K.M. Medical College & Hospital and was discharged later.
Dushanbe, March 3 : Preliminary results show that Tajikistan's ruling People's Democratic Party has won Sunday's parliamentary elections with 51.9 per cent of the vote, Bakhtiyor Khudoyorzoda, Chairman of the Central Election Commission (CEC), announced Monday.

The ruling party led by President Emomali Rahmon secured 12 out of the 22 seats on party lists, and 37 seats in 41 single-mandate constituencies, according to the election commission.

Out of the 22 seats on party lists, the Agrarian Party secured five seats, the Economic Reform Party won three seats, and the Socialist Party and the Democratic Party each gained one seat.

The 22 out of all 63 seats in the lower house were contested by 68 candidates nominated by political parties, while the remaining 41 seats would be elected from among 152 candidates across 41 constituencies, Xinhua news agency reported.

Voting began at 6 am local time (0100 GMT) and concluded at 8 pm (1500 GMT) on Sunday. There were 3,513 polling stations nationwide, along with 36 overseas polling stations, according to the commission.

A total of 220 candidates, including representatives from six political parties and some independents, competed for 63 seats in the lower house.

Tajikistan's President Emomali Rahmon, leader of the ruling People's Democratic Party, cast his ballot on Sunday morning at polling station No. 15 in the capital city of Dushanbe.

According to data released by Tajikistan's CEC, the country currently has more than five million registered voters.

Forty-one seats out of all 63 seats in the lower house are elected from among 152 candidates across 41 constituencies, while the remaining 22 seats are contested by 68 candidates nominated by the six parties which participated in the elections.
Chennai, Mar 3 : Actor Manchu Manoj has penned a touching post to his wife Mounika on the occasion of their second wedding anniversary.

Taking to his Instagram timeline, Manchu Manoj wrote, "Two years ago, I made the best decision of my life, I married the woman who changed my world forever."

He went on to say,"Mounika, from the moment you walked into my life, you brought a kind of love I never knew existed. You've been my anchor in the storms, my calm in the chaos, and the reason I believe in destiny."

Manch Manoj further said, "In just two years, we've built a home filled with love, laughter, and two beautiful little souls, our Dhairav and our little lioness, MM Puli. Watching you be the most incredible mother to them makes me fall in love with you even more every single day."

Stating that they had been through highs and lows, victories and struggles, Manchu Manoj said that one thing however, was constant. "But through it all, one thing has remained constant, us. You are my best friend, my biggest supporter, my forever," he said.

"If these two years have shown me anything, it's that a lifetime with you won't be enough. Happy Anniversary, Munni. Here's to more dreams, more adventures, and a love that only grows stronger with time. Yours, Manu," he signed off.

On the professional front, Manchu Manoj is all set to make a comeback with director Karthik Gattamneni's eagerly awaited action thriller film Mirai, featuring Teja Sajja, best known for having delivered the pan India blockbuster Hanuman, in the lead.

In an earlier interview, Manchu Manoj, while commenting on his role in the film, had said, "Coming back to the industry with such a powerful and intriguing character has been both challenging and exhilarating. The Black Sword is a character that resonates with the strength and resilience that every hero should embody. I am overwhelmed with excitement to share this journey with my fans who have waited patiently for my return."

--IANS

Mkr/
Lucknow, March 3 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday praised his government's prompt actions following the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on January 29.

He said that the swift action ensured timely medical aid for victims and prevented widespread panic.

He also refuted reports of pollution at the Sangam during the religious event, asserting that the situation was handled with urgency and care.

Addressing a gathering of Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and Indian Postal Service officials here on Monday, the Chief Minister underlined the scale of the situation, saying: "We did not allow the incident to be excessively highlighted, as eight crore devotees and sadhus were present in Prayagraj and the Kumbh Mela area at the time, and panic could have worsened the situation."

At least 30 devotees were killed and 60 others injured in the stampede at the Sangam ghat during Mauni Amavasya. Chief Minister Adityanath spoke about the complexities of managing such large-scale events, underlining that in addition to millions of devotees, seers and sadhus from 13 Akhadas were also scheduled for the ritualistic 'Amrit Snan' (holy dip) that morning.

The CM said that two major challenges arise during such events. Determining the bathing order among the Akharas, which has historically led to disputes, and ensuring the ritual proceeds smoothly at the scheduled time of 4 AM, he explained. Despite the tragedy, all Akhadas were prepared to proceed with the 'snan,' but the administration stepped in to postpone the event.

"I personally requested them to delay the ritual to manage the situation," CM Adityanath said, adding that officials monitored the crowd closely, evacuated the Sangam area by noon, and ensured the 'snan' resumed by 2:30 PM.

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of effective crisis management, stating, "In difficult situations, many people panic and give up, but we must develop the strength to make firm decisions with patience and control."

He also underlined the need for coordination among stakeholders, including devotees, sadhus, and administrative officials.

"I personally initiated dialogues to maintain order and ensure smooth execution of the event," he added.
Hyderabad, March 3 : Authorities have expedited the repair work on the conveyor belt to remove debris from the accident site in the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telangana's Nagarkurnool district as the rescue operations continued for the 10th day on Monday.

Hyderabad, March 3 (IANS) Authorities have expedited the repair work on the conveyor belt to remove debris from the accident site in the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel in Telanganaas Nagarkurnool district as the rescue operations continued for the 10th day on Monday.

The fate of eight persons, who were trapped in the tunnel after a portion of the roof collapsed on February 22, is still unknown.

Disaster Management Special Chief Secretary Arvind Kumar, Nagarkurnool District Collector Badavath Santosh, and other officials conducted a review meeting at the tunnel inlet office to assess the ongoing rescue operations.

The conveyor belt repairs have been expedited to facilitate the removal of debris from the SLBC accident site. Officials have confirmed that the dewatering process is progressing swiftly.

Telangana State Southern Power Distribution Company Limited Chairman and Managing Director Musharraf Ali, Nagarkurnool District Superintendent of Police Vaibhav Gaikwad Raghunath, Colonel Parikshit Mehra, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) officer Prasanna, and representatives from HYDRAA, Singareni Mines Rescue, SDRF, Fire Services, and South Central Railway, participated in the meeting.

Disaster Management Special Chief Secretary Arvind Kumar analysed the challenges encountered in the rescue operations and discussed them with the teams involved. Authorities are continuously reviewing the rescue efforts with teams from 12 different agencies.

Special officers are being consulted for suggestions and guidance to ensure the necessary actions are implemented effectively. Advanced technology is being utilised under expert supervision to remove mud, sludge, and concrete debris from the tunnel.

To prevent further water inflow into the SLBC tunnel from above and from both sides, as well as to drain out the already accumulated water, special machinery has been deployed to operate continuously, ensuring the rescue operations proceed without hindrance.

Authorities are exploring the possibility of using robots to trace the eight trapped men.

Multiple rescue teams continued desilting and machine-cutting at the locations identified by the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) after scanning the accident site through Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR).

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday suggested the use of robots in the tunnel in which eight persons remained trapped since February 22.

The Chief Minister, who visited the tunnel and held a review meeting with agencies involved in the rescue operation, asked officials to examine the possibility of using robots to prevent any further loss of life.

He said experts have not come to a conclusion whether eight missing persons are alive or dead.

The Chief Minister said it may take another 2-3 days for the rescue workers to come to a conclusion.
Bhubaneswar, March 3 : The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Monday demanded immediate intervention of the state government for the observance of Panchayati Raj Diwas on March 5, the birth anniversary of former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik.

The birth anniversary of the legendary leader has been observed as Panchayati Raj Diwas every year in the state.

The Opposition BJD on Monday also expressed disappointment over the state government's indifference towards the celebration of the Panchayati Raj Diwas on March 5.

Speaking to media persons during a press conference here on Monday, senior BJD leader Debi Prasad Mishra said, "The Panchayati Raj Diwas has been celebrated on the birth date of Biju Babu since the early 1990's, irrespective of the party in power in Odisha. All previous governments in the state have celebrated it on March 5 since the 90's. But it is a matter of great sorrow that no preparations or decision have been taken by the present Mohan Charan Majhi government even as only two days left for the 109th birth anniversary of Biju Patnaik on March 5."

Mishra also alleged that no official communication has yet been sent to the district administration regarding the procedure to observe the Panchayati Raj Diwas on March 5.

The senior BJD leader also said that Biju Patnaik played a leading role in the implantation of the Panchayati Raj system in Odisha as well as the country.

Mishra urged the state government to immediately send official communication to the district administration for the celebration of Panchayati Raj Diwas on March 5 to assuage the resentment among the representatives of Panchayati Raj system in villages across the state.

The senior BJD leader also advised the state government to extend due respect to Biju Patnaik rising above party lines.

Mishra noted that Balwantrai Mehta is known as the father of the Panchayati Raj system in India.

He also added that Biju Patnaik is also considered as father of Panchayati Raj system for promoting rural economy through the innovative idea of Panchayati Raj industries and empowering the representatives in the Panchayati Raj institutions at the ground level.
Beirut, March 3 : The Arab economy accounts for nearly five per cent of the world's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with Qatar being the richest country in the region, according to a new report released on Monday by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia.

Dubbed "Real sizes of Arab economies between 2017 and 2023," the report analyses the results of the International Comparison Programme (ICP) and the Purchasing Power Parities (PPPs) of Arab currencies over seven years, from 2017 to 2023.

It reveals that the average per capita income in the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries surpasses the world average. Qatar, ranked as the wealthiest Arab country, holds the fourth spot globally, followed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 12th place and Bahrain in 26th. In contrast, Somalia and Syria have among the lowest per capita incomes worldwide.

Majed Skaini, the regional programme manager of the ICP for the Arab region at ESCWA and the report's author, noted that while Qatar ranks as the richest in the Arab region by GDP per capita, it places third in terms of material well-being, measured by Actual Individual Consumption (AIC) per capita, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the report, the UAE ranks highest in the Arab region for material well-being, coming in 24th globally, followed by Kuwait in 37th and Qatar in 38th.

Regarding the size of their economies, Egypt and Saudi Arabia are the two largest in the region, contributing 27 per cent and 24 per cent, respectively, to the regional economy and ranking among the world's top 20 economies.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Court hearings on the criminal case against citizens of the Republic of Armenia Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Davit Ishkhanyan, Davit Babayan, Lyova Mnatsakanyan, and others, who are accused of committing crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, including the preparation and conduct of a war of aggression, acts of genocide, violation of the laws and customs of warfare, as well as terrorism, financing of terrorism, forcible seizure of power, forcible retention of power and numerous other crimes as a result of Armenia's military aggression, was continued on March 3, Trend reports.

During the previous court session, the accused had the opportunity to provide statements. The current session is expected to continue with their statements.

A total of 15 Armenian nationals are being charged with numerous crimes involving direct leadership and participation of the Armenian state, its state bodies, military forces, and illegal armed formations, verbal and written instructions, orders and assignments, provision of material and technical support, central governance, as well as the exercise of rigorous control, to commit military aggression and acts of terror against the Republic of Azerbaijan in the territory of Azerbaijan in violation of domestic and international law, and involving Robert Sedraki Kocharyan, Serzh Azati Sargsyan, Vazgen Mikaeli Manukyan, Vazgen Zaveni Sargsyan, Samvel Andraniki Babayan, Vitali Mikaeli Balasanyan, Zori Hayki Balayan, Seyran Mushegi Ohanyan, Arshavir Surenovich Garamyan, Monte Charles Melkonyan and others, including criminal acts committed during the war of aggression waged by the aforementioned criminal group.

The said persons, i.e. Arayik Vladimiri Harutyunyan, Arkadi Arshaviri Ghukasyan, Bako Sahaki Sahakyan, Davit Rubeni Ishkhanyan, David Azatini Manukyan, Davit Klimi Babayan, Levon Henrikovich Mnatsakanyan, Vasili Ivani Beglaryan, Erik Roberti Ghazaryan, Davit Nelsoni Allahverdiyan, Gurgen Homeri Stepanyan, Levon Romiki Balayan, Madat Arakelovich Babayan, Garik Grigori Martirosyan, Melikset Vladimiri Pashayan, are being charged under Articles 100 (planning, preparing, initiating and waging a war of aggression), 102 (attacking persons or organizations enjoying international protection), 103 (genocide), 105 (extermination of the population), 106 (enslaving), 107 (deportation or forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (enforced disappearance of people), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114 (mercenary service), 115 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116 (violation of international humanitarian law during armed conflict), 118 (military robbery), 120 (intentional murder), 192 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing terrorism), 218 (creation of a criminal association (organization)), 228 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation and possession of weapons, their components, ammunition, explosives and devices), 270-1 (acts threatening aviation security), 277 (assassination of a state official or public figure), 278 (forcible seizure and retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279 (creation of armed formations and groups not provided for by law) and other articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

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New Delhi, March 3 : Taking a jibe, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday told Leader of Opposition Atishi to beware of her party colleague and former CM Arvind Kejriwal who allegedly got AAP MP Swati Maliwal beaten up in his house.

Concluding a discussion on the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Performance Audit on 'Public Health Infrastructure & Management of Health Services', CM Gupta's words of empathy for Atishi came after the latter shouted slogans and defended Kejriwal government's health model with full intensify in the Assembly.

"You are one of four women legislators in the House and I am worried about your safety. You are shielding and protecting Kejriwal with such seriousness and must be working closely with him He is a person who got Swati Maliwal beaten up," she said.

A person who can get a woman Rajya Sabha MP of his own party beaten up can cause harm to you as well, said CM Gupta, advising Atishi to take precautions while working with Kejriwal.

CM Gupta also sympathised with Atishi for facing the heat in the House over misdeeds of Kejriwal.

"Where is Kejriwal? He has got you trapped here," she said.

CM Gupta's remarks followed protests by AAP legislators, led by Atishi, in the Assembly over critical observations by BJP legislators in connection with the CAG report that exposed mismanagement and shortcomings in hospitals and Mohalla Clinics in Delhi.

Maliwal's alleged ill-treatment at the CM's house had become a major poll plank in the Assembly elections with the BJP hitting out at Kejriwal for being "anti-women".

Maliwal had filed an FIR after the incident on May 13, 2024, alleging that she was in deep distress and a "traumatised state" after being beaten by CM Kerjiwal's associate, Bibhav Kumar, before being forced out of the CM's house in north Delhi.

In her FIR, Maliwal stated that Bibhav verbally abused her before physically attacking her.

"He slapped me at least 7-8 times while I continued to scream for help. I felt shocked and kept screaming for assistance. In an attempt to protect myself, I pushed him away with my legs," Maliwal claimed.

She further detailed the assault, saying: "At that moment, he aggressively attacked me, pulled my shirt up deliberately, causing the buttons to come undone, and my shirt flew up."

"I fell down and hit my head on the centre table. I continued to scream for help as he did not stop and proceeded to kick me in my chest, stomach, and pelvic area with his legs," she added.

After that incident, Atishi claimed that Maliwal was a "pawn" of the BJP and was sent to Kejriwal's residence with political motives.
Beirut, March 3 : Newly appointed UNIFIL Sector West Commander Nicola Mandolesi on Monday called on Lebanon and Israel to refrain from actions that could jeopardise the fragile stability in the region.

"The full implementation of Resolution 1701 is of utmost importance, and we call on all parties to refrain from any actions that could jeopardise the fragile stability currently in place," Mandolesi said when meeting with Mufti of Tyre and Jabal Amel in southern Lebanon, Judge Sheikh Hassan Abdallah, according to the official National News Agency (NNA).

"UNIFIL remains fully committed to the communities of southern Lebanon, working to restore security and stability while supporting the Lebanese army in deploying its forces in the region," Mandolesi said.

He also highlighted UNIFIL's daily commitment to supporting the Lebanese army through joint patrols, knowledge-sharing, and coordinated operational activities, Xinhua news agency reported. "This ongoing effort is essential to ensuring a safe and stable environment, contributing to the return of displaced residents to southern Lebanon," he said.

He also noted how UNIFIL's presence helps foster cooperation between different local communities, promoting an atmosphere of dialogue and security.

For his part, the Mufti emphasised UNIFIL's vital role following the cessation of hostilities. He reaffirmed the peacekeeping forces' importance in ensuring the security and stability of the residents of southern Lebanon.

He strongly condemned the recent attacks on Beirut airport and UNIFIL personnel, stressing that UNIFIL forces are an integral part of the region's social fabric and that any attack on them is an attack on the Lebanese people.
New Delhi, March 3 : Congress has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of being "complicit" in voter list "manipulation" and stated that it was actively pursuing a remedy through legal, political, legislative, and other means.

New Delhi, March 3 (IANS) Congress has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of being "complicit" in voter list "manipulation" and stated that it was actively pursuing a remedy through legal, political, legislative, and other means.

A group of senior Congress leaders raised concerns over the EC's "silence regarding multiple voters having the same identification number". They asserted that the issue was too serious to be ignored, as it posed a grave danger to the country's electoral democracy.

"This is a grave danger to the very idea of India as an electoral democracy. This transcends political parties and politics. Babasaheb Ambedkar fought for the setting up of an independent Election Commission to precisely resist this urge of executive interference in elections. The Congress will not let this issue fade away and is actively working on seeking remedy through legal, political, legislative and any other means," the Congress' Empowered Action Group of Leaders and Experts (EAGLE) stated in a press release.

The grand old party has constituted this eight-member committee to monitor the conduct of free and fair elections by the Election Commission of India. Senior leaders Ajay Maken, Digvijaya Singh, Abhishek Singhvi, Paveen Chakravarty, Pawan Khera, Gurdeep Singh Sappal, Nitin Raut, and Vamshi Chand Reddy are the members of the group.

The group in statement alleged that the EC was "complicit" in voter list manipulation, highlighting disturbing developments on the issue.

"The same voter ID number is being used for several voters, both from the same constituency in the same state as well as from other states. This is utterly shocking. A unique voter ID for every Indian voter is the fundamental requirement and premise of a clean voter list. Multiple voters having the same voter ID number is as bizarre as multiple vehicles bearing the same registration number. It is unheard of in any electoral democracy," the group claimed.

The Congress also pointed to what it described as "huge irregularities and abnormalities" in voter lists during the assembly election in Maharashtra.

"It is both a logical and statistical absurdity that the Election Commission registered more new net voters (40 lakh) in five months between the Lok Sabha and the Vidhan Sabha elections than it did in the entire five-year period between 2019 and 2024 (32 lakh)," they said. Back in December 2024, the Congress party pointed out huge alleged irregularities and abnormalities in voter lists for the Maharashtra 2024 Vidhan Sabha election.

"This was substantiated through ground reports in some constituencies where thousands of voters were added to the rolls from just one building or brought in from other states. It was further shown that suspiciously most of these new voters enrolled seem to have voted only for the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra, thereby tilting the eventual outcome in their favour," said the statement.

"The Election Commission's stoic silence has only lent credence to its complicity in voter list manipulation. When confronted with proof of the same voter ID number used by multiple voters, the Election Commission initially responded claiming that a voter ID number may be the same across states but it is unique to a particular state," the leaders said.

"Even that turned out to be a blatant lie as there are cases of the same ID number used by several voters in the same state and in the same constituency. After this was pointed out, there has been pin-drop silence," they added.

The Congress leaders also argued that it was fundamental knowledge that a person who legally migrates to any state must have a unique voter ID number across the country. "The EC cannot feign ignorance or incompetence in this matter. It is a deliberate act of voter list manipulation to aid the ruling party and thwart the idea of free and fair elections," they said.

"The cover is now blown. It is clear that the ruling BJP wins or attempts to win elections by manipulating voter lists in connivance with the Election Commission. Which is why the process of appointment of the election commissioners is so critical to the Narendra Modi government that it subverted a Supreme Court ruling to have a balanced committee to appoint election commissioners," they concluded.
Rome, Mar 3 : Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni remains "extremely skeptical" about sending European troops to Ukraine and does not share the corresponding proposal of Great Britain and France, Italian media reported on Monday.

Meloni on Sunday attended a Leaders' Summit in London which saw participation of more than a dozen European heads of state and Canadian Prime Minister to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine following a week of intense diplomatic talks.

The Italian PM held bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.

"The meeting allowed to reaffirm Italy's support for Ukraine and its people and the commitment, together with European and Western partners and the United States, to build a just and lasting peace, which ensures a future of sovereignty, security and freedom for Ukraine," read a statement issued by the Italian PM's office after Meloni's meeting Zelensky.

Leading Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that Meloni asserted that Rome is ready to participate in such joint European mission in Ukraine only if it is under the auspices of the United Nations and on condition that the hostilities end.

Regarding the unsuccessful negotiations of Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington, which ended in a squabble with US President Donald Trump, Meloni said that she regrets what happened in the Oval Office, but it should not be turned into "a clash of fans" by taking sides.

During the meeting, Meloni also stressed the importance of unity in the West, proposing to host a summit between European leaders and the US to improve ties after the relationship between the long-time allies strained over the war in Ukraine.
Chandigarh, March 3 : As the meeting between Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and protesting farmer unions under the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) "remained inconclusively" on Monday over their demands, the latter announced to go ahead with the March 5 indefinite protest in Chandigarh, including scheme to wave off farm loans.

The meeting here didn't yield any result, but escalated tensions as farmers accused Chief Minister Mann of walking out midway and allegedly attempting to intimidate them.

After the talks, SKM leaders, including Joginder Singh Ugrahan and Balbir Singh Rajewal, expressed dissatisfaction.

They said this was the first time in history that a Chief Minister had directly attempted to threaten farmers during a meeting.

"He (CM Mann) didn't listen to our complete list of demands and walked away," Joginder Singh Ugrahan, President of the BKU Ekta Ugrahan, told the media.

Another farmer leader, Balbir Singh Rajewal said the farmers had only listed eight of their 18 demands when the Chief Minister left the meeting that lasted less than two hours.

Chief Minister Mann had appealed to the farmers not to resort to road blockades and protests, citing negative impact on the state's economy.

The farmer leaders said Chief Minister Mann agreed to one demand that is, advancing the procurement of paddy to June 1.

However, on other key issues he (Punjab Chief Minister) reportedly tried to make any commitments.

They said the Punjab Chief Minister got visibly frustrated when the farmer leaders insisted on their demands and bluntly told them, "Do whatever you want on March 5."

The farmer leaders accused CM Mann of employing delaying tactics and failing to address their concerns effectively.

They alleged that instead of offering solutions, the state government was trying to suppress their movement.

The SKM has an 18-point memorandum, including the minimum support price (MSP) guarantee, introducing a scheme to wave off farm loans, besides safeguarding their interests with the new agriculture policy being framed.

Farmers from across Punjab will participate in the gathering on March 5.
Nairobi, March 3 : The Horn of Africa is expected to be warmer than usual between March and May, the Climate Prediction and Applications Center (ICPAC) of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a regional bloc, reported on Monday.

The weather agency said in its latest forecast that warmer-than-usual conditions are expected across most of the region, except in southeastern South Sudan and northeastern Uganda.

Temperatures during this period could rise above 32 degrees Celsius in some countries, while several regions, including western and southwestern Kenya, eastern Uganda, eastern South Sudan, western Ethiopia and most of Tanzania, are expected to experience wetter-than-usual conditions, according to ICPAC.

Drier-than-usual conditions are forecast for most parts of Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, western Uganda and South Sudan, Xinhua news agency reported. The expected weather anomalies in the region are attributed to climate change, with the Horn of Africa being one of the most vulnerable areas.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations and IGAD, about 66.9 million people in the Horn of Africa are food insecure, a number that is likely to rise due to increasing weather anomalies.

Last month, the World Food Programme (WFP) said that the European Union has allotted $4.13 million to support a joint project to protect vulnerable communities in the Greater Horn of Africa from the devastating impacts of climate extremes, conflict, and displacement.

The project will support 450,000 vulnerable people in Ethiopia and Somalia for two years by reducing the impacts of forecasted shocks before they become crisis through capacity strengthening of weather agencies to provide timely, accurate forecasts, enabling better community and government response, the UN agency said.

"Increasingly frequent and intense climate extremes such as droughts and floods are compounding existing drivers of hunger such as conflict, displacement and economic instability," Rukia Yacoub, WFP's Deputy Regional Director for Eastern Africa, said in a statement.

"As livestock and crops perish, livelihoods are lost, and hunger deepens," the statement said. "Early action saves lives, builds people's resilience to face future crisis, and eases the strain on limited humanitarian resources."

The project will be implemented by the WFP, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the UN, the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the Climate Prediction and Applications Centre of the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development and the Danish Refugee Council, according to the statement.

The Horn of Africa, located in the easternmost part of Africa, is one of the worldas most conflict-prone and fragile regions. The Horn of Africa has a long history of protracted conflict, violent extremism, and weak governance and hosts a large number of refugees and internally displaced people. It is also one of the worldas poorest regions, with an estimated 57 million people living in extreme poverty.

The long-term impacts of Covid-19, climate change, protracted conflict, the war in Ukraine and reduced funding globally are all contributing to food insecurity in the Horn of Africa. The hunger crisis in the Horn of Africa is reaching unimaginable proportions as 23 million people across Ethiopia, Kenya and Somalia are highly food insecure and face severe hunger and water shortages. Relentless drought and high food prices have weakened peopleas ability to grow crops, raise livestock and buy food for their families.
Kolkata, March 3 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Monday, expressed anguish over encroachment of land located on the six proposed economic corridors in the state.

"We have plans to develop six economic corridors in the state. The land is ready for that. However, instances of land encroachment on some portions of the land have already come to our notice. A solution to that has to be reached at the earliest," the Chief Minister said while delivering her address at the first meeting of the State-Level Investment Synergy Committee (SLISC) Meeting at the state secretariat Nabanna on Monday.

She also directed the departmental secretaries concerned to ensure that bureaucratic red-tapism does not necessarily delay in giving clearances for new and proposed industrial units.

"Already the real-time tracking system has been introduced. I will ask the Chief Secretary to submit the reports of clearances in the right time. We have to ensure the state's economic development and employment generation at any cost. I will also ask the trade unions not to create problems in the industrial sectors for personal gains," the Chief Minister said.

She also had a word of caution against the industrialists in the matter as well. "Do not pay money to anyone against any promises. I will also ask the industrialists not to resort to large-scale layoffs. It is unfair to throw 500 people out of a job at a go. Better find out solutions through bipartite negotiations," said the Chief Minister.

Last month, the state government announced the formation of the SLISC as a single window for clearance of investment proposals for the state. As per the notification issued in the matter, besides the said state-level synergy committee, there will also be a district-level investment synergy committee in each district.

According to the state government, the initiative aimed to provide a streamlined, single-window interface for approvals, enabling entrepreneurs and investors to obtain required clearances without unnecessary delays.

The objective also aimed to provide a single-point interface and provide a centralised platform for all investment proposals and business-related services
Jaipur, March 3 : In a significant move towards strengthening Rajasthan's energy sector, the state government has signed an MoU with Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) to establish massive thermal and renewable energy projects.

Jaipur, March 3 (IANS) In a significant move towards strengthening Rajasthanas energy sector, the state government has signed an MoU with Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) to establish massive thermal and renewable energy projects.

Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rajasthan is taking bold steps in power generation and transmission, positioning itself as a major energy provider for the nation.

During the MoU signing ceremony at the Chief Ministeras residence, Sharma emphasised Rajasthanas immense potential in solar energy. With the state already emerging as a leader in renewable power, the government is committed to making Rajasthan self-reliant in energy production.

A key focus is to ensure daytime electricity supply for farmers by 2027, a goal the administration is working towards with strategic policies and rapid implementation, he said.

As part of the agreement, a 1600 MW thermal power project will be set up in Telangana, with both Rajasthan and Telangana receiving 800 MW each. In addition, Rajasthan will host a 1500 MW solar park, an initiative expected to bring in an investment of Rs 6,000 crore, creating new job opportunities and boosting economic growth. The total investment across these projects is estimated at Rs 22,000 crore.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the stateas commitment to achieving its ambitious energy targets under the Clean Energy Policy-2024, which aims to generate 125 GW of solar power by 2030. Rajasthan is also making significant progress toward surpassing 54,000 MW of power capacity from both conventional and renewable sources by 2031-32.

The recent Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit witnessed investment agreements worth Rs 2.28 lakh crore, including a Rs 10,000 crore MoU between Power Grid Corporation and RVUNL.

Telanganaas Deputy Chief Minister and Energy Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka praised Rajasthanas advancements in solar energy, calling the MoU a game-changer in thermal power efficiency and renewable energy production.

Minister of State for Energy Hiralal Nagar assured that Rajasthanas Energy Department would coordinate closely with the Telangana government to ensure swift execution of the projects.

The event also saw a presentation by Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Alok, providing insights into the MoUas impact.

Senior officials, including Principal Secretary (Energy) Sandeep Kumar Sultania, RVUNL CMD Devendra Shringi, and SCCL CMD N. Balaram, were present, marking the beginning of a transformative journey in Rajasthanas energy sector.

With these developments, Rajasthan is set to become a key player in the nationas energy future, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, self-sufficiency, and economic progress.
Bengaluru, March 3 : A Karnataka BJP delegation submitted a memorandum to the Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot on Monday, opposing the decision to shut down nine universities in the state established during the tenure of the previous BJP government.

The delegation included MLCs N. Ravikumar, Shashil Namoshi, Hanumant Nirani, and D.S. Arun, along with C.B. Shashidhar, the State Convenor of the BJP Education Cell, and State Co-Convenors M.G. Bhat, Harish K., Raghavendra, and Ashwini Shankar.

They emphasised that the decision to close these nine universities is not only unscientific and unconstitutional but also unjust. The delegation highlighted the severe negative consequences this move would have.

The memorandum urged the state government to immediately withdraw its decision and take appropriate measures to protect the future of lakhs of rural and economically disadvantaged students.

Karnataka Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka on Saturday criticised the state government, saying that the government should shut bars and not the universities.

"Shutting down universities forces students to migrate to neighbouring states for higher education. The state government should shut down the bars and not the universities in the state. The Congress government has been systematically shutting down universities, similar to how they discontinued various schemes such as Kisan Samman and Vidyanidhi," said the LoP while addressing a joint press conference at Vidhana Soudha.

He added that the government is presenting a Rs 4 lakh crore budget but also claimed they cannot allocate even Rs 342 crore for universities.

"If they cannot afford this amount, why even present a budget? They won't close 3,000 bars, but they are shutting down universities," he said.

Former Deputy Chief Minister C.N. Ashwath Narayan said that the closure of eight universities would be a setback to progress.

He accused the Congress of causing regression in all sectors and harming the educational aspirations of the youth.

He pointed out that during the BJP government's tenure, universities were established without creating new posts but by reallocating existing ones.

He cited 2021 enrollment statistics, stating that the average college enrollment rate in Karnataka was 33 per cent, while it was only 10 per cent in Chamarajanagar, 15 per cent in Mandya, and 16 per cent in Bagalkot.

He warned that this move would deprive youth of education. He stressed that universities should not be seen as revenue-generating shops but as institutions that provide education, which is the government's responsibility.

Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, stated that B.R. Ambedkar prioritised education and the Congress government should do the same instead of merely providing free rice.

He criticised the state government for presenting a Rs 4 lakh crore budget while refusing to allocate even Rs 350 crore for education.

The decision in this regard was taken in the Cabinet subcommittee meeting headed by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on February 13.
Hyderabad, March 3 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has bagged the Telangana Legislative Council seat from Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar teachers' constituency while Panchayat Raj Teachers' Union (PRTU) candidate P. Sripal Reddy has emerged winner from Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda teachers' constituency.

Hyderabad, March 3 (IANS) The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has bagged the Telangana Legislative Council seat from Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar teachersa constituency while Panchayat Raj Teachersa Union (PRTU) candidate P. Sripal Reddy has emerged winner from Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda teachersa constituency.

BJP candidate Malka Komaraiah won Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar teachersa segment in the first priority votes. He defeated his nearest rival Vanga Mahender Reddy by over 5,000 votes.

Komariah polled 12,959 votes while Mahender Reddy secured 7,182 votes.

In Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda teachersa constituency, Sripal Reddy was declared winner on the basis of second priority votes over sitting MLC Narsi Reddy. BJPas Puli Sarottham Reddy finished a distant third.

Counting of votes for the Telangana Legislative Council elections to two teachersa constituencies and one graduatesa constituency was taken up on Monday.

The counting of votes for the graduate constituency of Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar was still underway.

Congress and BJP are locked in a direct fight in this constituency, which is currently represented by senior Congress leader and former minister T. Jeevan Reddy.

The Congress has fielded V. Narender Reddy, who is pitted against BJPas C. Anji Reddy.

The BJP, which won all four Lok Sabha seats in this segment last year, is confident of wresting the seat from Congress.

The candidates polling more than 50 percent of first preference votes will be declared elected. If there are no winners in the first preference votes, the counting of second preference votes will be taken up.

The Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar graduatesa constituency had recorded 70.4 percent polling. The voter turnout in Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar teachersa constituency was 91.9 percent while Warangal-Khammam-Nalgonda teachersa constituency recorded a 93.55 percent polling.

A total of 56 candidates are in the fray in the Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad-Karimnagar graduatesa constituency. As Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) stayed away, the main contest was between the ruling Congress party and the BJP. As many as 3,55,159 graduates were eligible to cast their vote. About 2.5 lakh voters exercised their franchise.

Though elections to teachersa segments are held on a non-party basis, the BJP fielded candidates in both segments.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay hailed BJPas victory from one of the teachersa segments. He said the results show that teachers wholeheartedly supported the party.

Sanjay, who is the MP from Karimnagar, dedicated the victory to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He claimed that the BJP enjoyed the support of the people of Telangana and predicted that the party would come to power in the state.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Azerbaijans Prime Minister Ali Asadov expressed gratitude to his Kazakh counterpart, Olzhas Bektenov, for the support provided in the investigation of the crash of an Azerbaijani Airlines (AZAL) plane near Aktau, Trend reports.

Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov stated this during a meeting with Kazakh counterpart Olzhas Bektenov, who is on an official visit to Baku at his invitation, on March 3.

Asadov specifically acknowledged the Kazakhstan governments prompt action in both the search-and-rescue operation and the ongoing investigation into the causes of the crash.

On December 25, 2024, an Embraer 190-100 IGW passenger aircraft, registered as 4K-AZ65 in the state registry and owned by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), operating a regular flight J2-8243 from Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan to Grozny, Russian Federation, crashed near Aktau Airport in the Republic of Kazakhstan. As a result of the aviation accident, two crew members (the captain and the co-pilot), a senior flight attendant, and 35 passengers lost their lives. Despite the human casualties and injuries, during an emergency landing, it was possible to save the lives of 29 people thanks to the professionalism, courage, and bravery of the pilots and attendants. Following the receipt of information about the emergency landing in the Republic of Kazakhstan, necessary search and rescue operations were immediately carried out, and survivors were evacuated and provided medical assistance.

The preliminary report confirmed the following facts:

1. On December 25, 2024, the Embraer 190-100 IGW passenger aircraft, registered as 4K-AZ65 and owned by Azerbaijan Hava Yollari CJSC (Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL)), was fully airworthy when it started its flight and while operating to Grozny. These airworthiness conditions, including the operation of the flight control systems, were confirmed by FDR data.

2. Both engines of the aircraft were operational up until the accident. This information is confirmed by the FDR records.

3. The aircraft lost GPS signals in the airspace of the Russian Federation, also experiencing the same failure above Grozny Airport.

4. Due to adverse weather conditions the aircraft unsuccessfully attempted to land in Grozny two times, and then the captain decided to return to Baku. Following this decision, the (CVR) recorded two external noises, occurring at 24-second intervals, over Grozny.

5. Analysis of the CVR and FDR data showed that, 4 seconds after the first external noise the 3rd hydraulic system failed, followed by the failure of the 1st hydraulic system 6 seconds later, and the 2nd hydraulic system 21 seconds later.

6. Numerous through and blind damages were found on the fuselage, and photos and video recordings were taken. The number of such damages was particularly high in the AFT part of the aircraft, including the vertical and horizontal stabilizers. Moreover, some of them were found in the left wing and the left engine.

7. It was recorded that the damages in the fuselage were caused by foreign objects. No evidence of a bird strike was noted in the preliminary report.

8. Foreign objects that did not belong to the aircraft structure were discovered in the wreckage damages, and photos of these objects were made available to the public in the preliminary report. Additional expert examinations will be carried out to determine the exact origin of these objects.

9. At 05:13:32 the aircraft lost primary flight controls, at 05:21:42 the coordinating air traffic controller conveyed to Grozny ATC the information on the Carpet special operation.

10. No information relating to an explosion of the oxygen cylinders is included in the report.

Photographs, audio transcripts, and digital recordings confirming the facts listed above are provided in the preliminary report text.

According to the ICAO requirements under the Chicago Convention, a final report on the causes of the accident shall be prepared within one year from the date of the accident. Relevant work on drafting the final report has already started involving Kazakhstan and other states participating in the investigation," the statement reads.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Patna, March 3 : A major train accident was narrowly averted in Motihari on Monday, thanks to the quick thinking of the Mithila Express train driver.

Mithila Express, travelling from Howrah to Raxaul Junction, approached a railway crossing near Raxaul Canal where a bike rider attempted to cross the tracks illegally but got stuck between the rail tracks. The rider failed to remove the bike and abandoned it on the tracks as the train approached with repeated horn warnings.

The train driver acted swiftly, applying emergency brakes and preventing a derailment. The bike was dragged for some distance before the train came to a halt.

The driver removed the bike with the assistance of local people and informed the RPF before resuming the journey to Raxaul Junction.

According to an official of RPF, the locals violate norms despite being repeatedly warned to avoid ill practices. Railway officials have urged locals to avoid using unauthorised crossings to prevent such incidents in the future.

An official said that the quick response by the driver prevented a catastrophic rail accident. Local passengers and railway officials praised the driver for his alertness and decisive action.

The railway department has urged local administration and law enforcement to take firm action against the continued use of this illegal crossing.

Earlier on February 28, a serious rail accident was narrowly avoided in Nalanda district when a Bolero SUV got stuck on the tracks in a similar fashion at an illegally constructed railway crossing near Langdi Vigha village.

The incident occurred just as the Danapur-Rajgir passenger train was approaching at high speed. The occupants of the Bolero managed to jump out in time and save their lives.

However, the vehicle was hit by the train, dragged along the tracks, and got completely stuck, disrupting rail traffic.
Jaipur, March 3 : The Jaipur Police on Monday detained 'IIT Baba' alias Abhay Singh, who went viral on social media during the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj, under the NDPS Act for possessing marijuana, police said.

The Shiprapath police station took the IIT Baba into custody from a hotel but later released him on a bail bond.

Authorities recovered ganja from him, leading to action under the NDPS Act, said officials.

They added, "The police received a tip-off from the control room about a young man, Abhay Singh, allegedly attempting suicide at Riddhi Siddhi Park Classic Hotel. Upon reaching the location, officers found IIT Baba Abhay Singh, who admitted to being under the influence of ganja."

However, Aditya Kakare, IPS Trainee, Mansarovar police station, told IANS that the reports regarding his suicide are yet to be confirmed and nothing can be spoken as of now.

However, he confirmed that ganja was seized from his possession however as it was a small quantity he was released later.

Kakare also confirmed that the police worked on a tip-off from a doctor who informed about IIT Baba staying in the hotel.

During a search operation, the police recovered two grams of ganja from the IIT Baba.

The IIT Baba was taken to the police station and later released on bail, as the quantity of ganja found was minimal.

Surprisingly, as he left the hotel, IIT Baba asked the police to wish him a happy birthday.

He was unaware of the reason why police arrived at the hotel in his room.

The IIT Baba denied the allegations against him, asserting that if such actions led to arrests, then many others would also face legal consequences.

Recently, the 'IIT Baba' hit headlines when he claimed that he was assaulted during a news debate programme of a private TV channel in Noida.
Chennai, March 4 : Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has urged the Union government to take immediate steps to protect Tamil fishermen from frequent mid-sea attacks, arrests, and seizures by the Sri Lankan Navy.

In a letter to the Union government on Monday, Stalin highlighted that in the past 10 years under the BJP government, 3,656 Tamil Nadu fishermen have been arrested, 613 boats seized, and 736 attacks carried out against them. He stressed that only the central government can find a lasting solution to this crisis.

Stalin also noted that bilateral talks between Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen, which were last held in 2010, have not been resumed. Despite assurances from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding diplomatic discussions, no tangible progress has been made.

The Chief Minister demanded that Tamil Nadu fishermen be considered Indian citizens first and their fishing rights be safeguarded. He called on the Union government to urge Sri Lanka to repeal the 2018 Sri Lankan Fishermen Act (Regulation of Foreign Fishing Boats Act), and secure fishing rights in the Katchatheevu region for Tamil Nadu fishermen.

Since February 24, fishermen in Rameswaram have been on an indefinite strike, demanding the release of their colleagues arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy. As part of the protest, 700 mechanised boat fishermen have suspended operations, keeping their vessels docked along the shore. The strike is expected to cause a daily revenue loss of Rs 1 crore, impacting over 10,000 workers in the fishing industry.

At a consultative meeting held at the Rameswaram fishing harbour, fishermenas associations unanimously decided to halt all fishing activities until the detained fishermen are released. VP Sesuraja, president of the Traditional Indian Fishermen Welfare Association, revealed that Tamil Nadu fishermen have been arrested four times this month alone. Since the beginning of 2025, a total of 119 fishermen and 16 boats have been seized.

Sesuraja also pointed out the financial burden on the families of the detained fishermen, who are often forced to pay hefty fines imposed by Sri Lankan authorities for their release. Fearing further arrests and boat confiscations, many fishermen are now hesitant to venture out to sea. In response, fishermenas associations across Tamil Nadu are planning large-scale protests against these detentions.

Antony John, a fishermenas association leader, stated that groups in all coastal districts of Tamil Nadu will soon finalise a date for massive demonstrations. He emphasised the urgent need for the Union government to secure the release of all detained fishermen, retrieve impounded boats and establish a bilateral agreement with Sri Lanka to resolve the issue permanently.

Fishermenas associations have also sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging swift diplomatic action to prevent mid-sea arrests and protect the livelihoods of coastal communities. Rajagopal C.M., a fishermenas leader from Thangachimadam, criticised the governmentas inaction, noting that many detained fishermen remain in Sri Lankan prisons, leaving their families in financial distress. He pointed out that since 2018, around 270 trawlers have been impounded, further jeopardising the fishermenas ability to earn a living.

In his appeal, Chief Minister Stalin urged the central government to convene a Joint Working Group to find a permanent solution to this ongoing crisis.
About five years ago, Toronto therapist Karen Goslin sat down with her daughter to share the powerful story of her journeya story that showcased strength, success, and resilience born from a weaker, painful path. After hearing her mothers tale, Goslins daughter recognized the potential for a book that would inspire others to rise from despair to triumph. And so, Goslin picked up the pen.

Karen Goslin, a psychotherapist with more than 30 years of experience, is now an author and public speaker with an important message to share beyond the therapy room. She speaks to the importance of living the life we truly desire while acknowledging how difficult that can be to practice.

Like many of our journeys, Goslins has been far from perfect. She grew up in a safe community near Toronto, Canada, and was supported and educated, yet she often felt alone and unworthy. These feelings led to perpetual cycles of perfectionism, which pushed her toward overworking, overdoing, and overcontrolling. As a result, by the time she was 40, she was facing a severe autoimmune disorder that disrupted her career and social life, compounded by a painful divorce that left her at rock bottom.

Instead of surrendering to the darkness she found herself in, Goslin made a bold decision: she would take full ownership of her circumstances, including her role in her downfall, and, through that accountability, rebuild her life. She embraced the very principles shed been teaching others for years: holding herself accountable, challenging destructive beliefs, and replacing them with healthier, more self-affirming truths. Yellow Paint: Learning to Live Again (OMERA Press, February 2025) is the product of that transformationa book that not only inspires but also generously equips readers with the same powerful tools that Goslin used to change her life and that she continues to use to help her clients.

Goslin calls her approach Accountable Therapy. This refreshingly direct form of therapy blends deep compassion with practical strategies. We all want change, yet we often get in the way of the very change were seeking, she says. We fall into the same patterns, tell ourselves the same stories, and sabotage our own happiness. There are valid reasons for this. We project the negative beliefs from our past onto the present, creating problems. But these obstacles are the very opportunities we need to master past pain. I call these invitations to grow. The challenge is that if were not ready for these invitations, instead of growing, we reinforce the wounds, and more problems arise, causing us to spiral downward.

Accountable Therapy gets us ready by helping us to recognize whats actually holding us back, own our role in what isnt working, and how to respond instead of reacting and to live with curiosity instead of judgment. The method offers daily tools to reduce self-sabotaging reactivity while also healing the deeper root causes of past issues that otherwise misdirect our present. Accepting the invitations to grow, Goslin says, opens the door to an entirely new way of livingone that has been waiting for us the whole time, where we level up instead of spiral down.

As the message of Yellow Paint spread, Goslins book was selected as part of the Oscars gift package for celebrity attendees this year. This is a perfect fit! she says.

Goslin understands the common human experience of striving for a life we deserve. We all deserve to live on the red carpet of our own livesshowing up for ourselves, changing the narratives of our lives, and shining in the spotlight of our potential, Goslin says. We deserve to be seen, celebrated, and honored for the work we put in.

Goslin encourages readers to identify their own yellow paint moments to transform their lives. Painting takes step-by-step preparation and persistent patience, but in the end, its worth it, she says. Its messy at times. Sometimes you need a primer. Sometimes the paint drips and needs a clean up. Other times, you need a second coat. But eventually, you step back, admire your work, and realize the entire room has changed.

Goslins message is clear. If I did it, if my clients did it, you can, too, she says. Not because its easy or theres a quick fix, but because you are capable of more than you believe. All you have to do is pick up the brush and start painting.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The Bureau and the Parliamentary Assembly of GUAM (an international regional organization that includes the Republic of Azerbaijan, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, and Ukraine) held meetings via videoconference under Azerbaijans chairmanship, the Azerbaijani Parliament press service told Trend.

The sessions began with discussions on the committee agendas, reviewing the outcomes of previous committee meetings, and examining the draft final document of the recent session, along with other issues. Corresponding decisions were made.

The 17th session of the Parliamentary Assembly of GUAM (GUAM PA) also took place during this online event. The conference, titled "Ensuring Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity, Economic and Humanitarian Resilience of GUAM Member States as the Highest Objective," was held within the session.

Opening the event, the Deputy Speaker of the Azerbaijani Parliament and head of Azerbaijan's delegation to the GUAM PA, Musa Gasimli, addressed the participants and provided insight into the theme of the conference.

He emphasized that discussions on vital issues such as sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic and humanitarian resilience are highly relevant in light of contemporary challenges. Gasimli pointed out that sovereignty and territorial integrity are not only the foundation of independence but also necessary conditions for stable and sustainable development. He particularly stressed the importance of preserving these core values for the independence of each state, noting that these principles hold special significance for Azerbaijan.

"Developing dialogue and cooperation between member states in political, economic, and humanitarian spheres is crucial. It will allow us to respond more effectively to the challenges and threats we face," he stated.

The MP also emphasized that one of the key elements in guaranteeing states' progress is economic stability.

"Joint projects, such as the 'green corridor,' will further strengthen economic ties in the region and ensure long-term economic stability," he added.

Concluding his speech, the Deputy Speaker emphasized that only through joint efforts can the set goals be achieved. Sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic and humanitarian resilience should be the guiding principles in their actions, he noted.

The meeting was attended by Georgian MP Tornike Chkheishvili, Moldovian MP Aleksandr Trubka, and Ukrainian MP Svyatoslav Yuras.

Following the event, a communique was adopted as the final document of the 17th session of the GUAM PA.

GUAM was established on 10 October 1997 during the Second Council of Europe Summit in Strasbourg, France. The organization's charter was signed by heads of state during the Kyiv Summit on May 23, 2006. The Charter delineates the primary objectives of GUAM as the fortification of democratic principles, the affirmation of the rule of law and human rights, the promotion of sustainable development, the enhancement of international and regional security and stability, the advancement of European integration to establish a unified security framework and expand economic and humanitarian collaboration, the cultivation of socio-economic, transport, energy, scientific, technical, and humanitarian capabilities, and the encouragement of political engagement and practical cooperation in areas of shared interest.

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The greatest threat to Europe isnt China, Russia, or some other external actor; its the retreat of Europe from fundamental values like the freedom of speech.

That was Vice President Vances warning to European leaders at the 2025 Munich Security Conference. There, Vance pointed to Europes disregard for free speech online as perhaps the greatest threat to democratic society.

Hes right.

Europes undermining of fundamental freedoms on its own shores is bad enough. But the European Union hasnt stopped there; now, it seeks to become the worlds speech police, deputizing Big Tech to enforce its censorship scheme globally.

This overreach threatens Americans freedom online and could even influence U.S. elections.

Examples of EU overreach abound.

In one case, mere hours before Elon Musk was set to interview then-presidential candidate Donald Trump on X Spaces in August 2024, then-Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton threatened Musk in a letter.

Breton implied that the livestream risked violating the EUs Digital Services Act (DSA) by amplifying harmful content linked to major politicalor societalevents.

The conversation was fully protected by the First Amendment in the U.S.but Breton targeted X simply because EU users could access the potentially harmful content.

EU officials claim that Breton acted without authorization.

But that misses the larger issue. EU regulations inevitably spill over into other Western nations.

Consider the response to EU rules like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which places limits on how digital service providers collect and use personal data. Instead of following the GDPR only in the EU, many of the worlds tech firms have decided its simply easier for them to comply with the GDPR everywhereincluding in the U.S.

That may sound like a good thing for American data privacy. But this kind of Brussels effect, or global adoption of EU standards, could have devastating consequences for free speech online.

The DSA requires large internet platforms to adapt their servicesincluding algorithms and content moderation policiesto mitigate systemic risks.

That might appear sensible at first blush. But the DSA lacks a clear, objective definition of systemic risk. It leaves the term open-ended, broadly requiring platforms to assess and mitigate vague risks such as any actual or foreseeable negative effects on civic discourse and electoral processes, and public security[.]

Some of these vague, open-ended provisions in the DSA are used as political weapons to pressure internet platforms into suppress speech that European censors deem harmful. In the eyes of EU elites, the label of illicit speech could even extend to interviews with disfavored political leaders.

Adding to those concerns, the European Commission is integrating two codes of practice into the DSA to encourage large internet platforms to suppress speech deemed hateful or disinformation by the EU or its member states.

While officially voluntary, these digital speech codes provide cover for government officials and pliant tech platforms to censor views they disagree with.

In Germany, hateful speech has included posting controversial cartoons on the internet. In Finland, hate speech has included posting a Bible verse on X.

Through the DSA, the EU is deputizing platforms to enforce European speech codes worldwideand its working.

By the EUs own estimates, platforms removed 28% of the content European regulators classified as so-called hate speech in 2016. That number surged to 70% on average by 2019 after platforms agreed to implement the voluntary code of conduct.

The EUs censorship efforts are accelerating. In early February, the European Commission announced a new European Democracy Shield initiative. With ties to leftwing funder George Soros, the initiative appears to be a new center of European resistance to the Trump-Vance Administrations efforts to roll back Big Tech censorship.

Such actions dont just affect speech in Europe. Once platforms implement algorithmic tools to censor mis/disinformation and hate speech for some users, theres a temptation to apply those same tools and standards across the board (as we saw with Big Techs response to the GDPR).

The EU wants a Brussels effect for internet speech. But thats fundamentally at odds with American values.

As Vice President Vance put it during the Paris AI Action Summit, the EUs attempts to tighten the screws on American tech firms through regulation are a terrible mistake that America cannot and will not accept.

If the EU had its way, a simple conversation between Trump and Musk might have been banned from social media altogether.

This directly contradicts the American belief that free expression deserves protection even when it includes viewpoints we disagree with or find offensive. And it reflects nothing less than a brazen attempt to impose European-style speech codes worldwide.

Free speech, I fear, is on the retreat, said Vance in Munich. But if Europe succeeds in enforcing its censorship regime, free speech wont just retreatit will vanish. Americans must resist this new digital imperialism and fight for a tech future rooted in free expression and republican self-governance.

Daniel Cochrane is a Senior Research Associate for The Heritage Foundations Tech Policy Center. Mary Mobley is an Editorial Fellow at Heritage.
Reality TV World is now available on the all-new Google News app and website. Click here to visit our Google News page, and then click FOLLOW to add us as a news source!
Will & Grace alum Eric McCormack says he wanted to star in the contemporary drama, Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue, because it was a fresh spin on the beloved Agatha Christie-style murder mysteries of the mid-20th century.

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Premiering Sunday on MGM+, the six-episode series was created by best-selling British author Anthony Horowitz and follows the survivors of a small plane crash in a Mexican jungle, who subsequently turn up dead one by one after the opening crisis.

McCormack's character is Kevin, an American doctor suspiciously reluctant to help the plane's dying pilot.

Playing his fellow passengers -- who may or may not be who they say they are -- are Lydia Wilson, David Ajala, Peter Gadiot, Siobhan McSweeney, Olafur Olafsson, Adam Long and Jan Le.

"The initial phone call from the agents said, 'It shoots in the Canary Islands,'" McCormack, 61, told UPI in a recent Zoom interview.

"I went, 'I'm in!'" he said, noting this isn't the type of job he is usually offered.

"I've done one [project] before -- that was a murder mystery -- but not one that had its roots in that sort of Agatha Christie, old-school storytelling [where the killer] could be anyone. That's fun and it involves all of us making clear choices to lead or mislead the audience."

Career-wise, Mexican Morgue came soon after McCormack played an Englishman in the Broadway comedy, The Cottage.

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"I had just done a character on Broadway that turned out I was, basically, doing [an impression of] Anthony Horowitz and I didn't know until I met with him for dinner," McCormack recalled.

"I walked into the restaurant and [Horowitz] stood up and the first thing he said to me was: 'That is exactly how I always imagined Kevin Anderson would walk. How did you do that?' And, I said, 'That's how I walk,' and he said, 'Well, we've truly cast this perfectly!'" McCormack laughed.

Ripper Street and The Swarm actress Lydia Wilson plays Sonja, a natural leader who immediately assesses how much food and water the survivors have and will need while they await rescue.

According to Wilson, Mexican Morgue was an easy "yes" because she was dying to work with McCormack in a project penned by Horowitz.

"Eric was already attached when I got the offer, so, that was hugely exciting to me," she said.

"Every time I'm on the tube, there is someone reading an Anthony Horowitz [novel]," the Londoner added. "There was a woman just yesterday opposite me, reading her Anthony Horowitz and I looked and she had like five pages left and I was like, 'She is living right now!'"

She said she also enjoyed how Kevin and Sonja "get off on this strange foot" when they meet for the first time on the plane.

"Kevin's nervous on the flight and Sonja is characteristically unreassuring towards him," Wilson added.

"She's doing a little scan of, I think, gender politics a little bit, so she's determined not to be kind of reassuring or nurturing in that moment. And then it's so interesting the way that kind of has to get broken down because, suddenly, they're thrown in this situation, and I think, particularly with Kevin, she kind of ends up with a real affection and respect as she thaws."

Kevin doesn't volunteer to take charge or offer any advice after the plane hits the ground and the dust settles.

"There's reasons that he isn't as open as he should be or as trusting and I think, really, that Sonja is the first character he starts to trust and put faith into," McCormack said. "He's like, 'She's going to keep us alive probably sooner than anybody else.'"

Another fascinating aspect of the series is how it explores the moment people decide if they are a group or operating under an "every man for himself" mentality, the actor said.

"You'd think that someone like Kevin, with Kevin's background, would be the first to sort of say, 'I'll help, but he doesn't and I just loved the mystery of that," he added.

"Whereas Sonja, as much as she plays her cards so close [to her vest], she's really the first to start thinking like a group."
Photos by Sabastian Mann

In 1977, a competitive handgun shooter from Berryville, Arkansas  who just happened to be a watchmaker by trade  started building custom 1911 handguns. Bill Wilson was a good jeweler and a good shooter, and he became one of the most recognized and best modifiers of the 1911 platform.

Wilson said in an interview in 2020, As I became a high-level competitor, I needed a better pistol, and when guns from the top pistolsmiths of the day did not satisfy me, I used my jewelry and watchmaking skills to work on 1911s.

And Wilson did make them better. In fact, his 1911s were so much better that they became highly sought after.

Wilson said, My goal was always to build the best product I could, charge what I had to in order to make a living, and to take care of my customers with a forever customer satisfaction policy. I knew if I did this, everything else would work out fine.

Now, almost 50 years later, Wilson transformed the little gun customizing shop in the back of a jewelry store into one of the largest and most respected custom firearms manufacturing company in the world.

Bill is no longer at the helm of Wilson Combat, hes handed the reins of the company over to Cam Ankele. Wilson spends his time on his ranch in Texas, hunting, conducting R&D, and providing technical guidance for Wilson Combat. Ankele, on the other hand, is hard at work to elevate Wilson Combat to even greater heights, and one of the projects he has inspired is Division 77.

Division 77 has a very specific mission: to offer a revolutionary gun series that provides Wilson Combats R&D division with the latitude to push boundaries, while also paying homage to the standards Wilson pioneered with 1911 design in 1977. You could look at Division 77 as the Skunkworks of Wilson Combat, and the P1  Project One  pistol is the first Division 77 gun.

SPECS:

Wilson Combat Division 77 Project One

Caliber: 9mm Luger

Capacity: 18+1

Barrel Length: 5 inches

Weight: 33.8 ounces (unloaded)

Overall Length: 8.7 inches

Height: 5.5 inches

MSRP: $3,995 ($4,295 with box)

Shooting Results

LOAD MV ME SD PRECISION Lehigh Defense 115-grain CF+P 1,142 333 8.3 0.78 Federal 124-grain Tactical Hydra-Shok 1,098 332 11.1 0.86 Wilson Combat 125-grain HAP 1,046 304 11.3 0.71 Federal 115-grain FMJ American Eagle 1,190 362 10.4 0.88 Speer 147-grain G2 988 319 24.8 1.02 Avg: 0.85

FEATURES & DETAILS

The foundation for the new D77 P1 pistol is Wilson Combats EDC X9 2.0 pistol. The P1 elevates the EDC X9 to make it what some would consider the ultimate combination of capacity, speed, accuracy, and reliability. With the P1, there are four noteworthy innovations, and the first is recoil control.

Wilson Combat used an all-new Dynamic Recoil Analysis System (DRAS), which is a state-of-the-art testing device designed to measure and analyze pistol recoil with unprecedented exactness to help them tune the recoil impulse of the P1. As opposed to peak recoil measurement, this system relies on 2,000 pressure data points within a 350-millisecond window. The data it provides represents a true recoil pressure curve. Compared to the standard EDC X9, Wilson says the P1 reduces the recoil impulse by an astounding 42 percent. This substantial recoil reduction comes from a proprietary barrel and slide porting system.

The next innovation is a new optics cut on the slide. This cut utilizes an all-new and extremely innovative pin system that allows shooters to seamlessly mount any reflex sight with an RMR, RMSc, or DeltaPoint Pro footprint. The cut is also at the rear of the slide for unobstructed chamber access and optimally positions SROs and longer reflex sights. The pistol ships with a plate that has an integrated Wilson Combat Battlesight rear sight. Remove this plate with two screws and then the reflex sight mounts directly to the slide. Small metal disks/pins allow this cut to interface with the various sight footprints.

Next up is Wilson Combats Advanced RPG Guide Rod, which is a longer, one-piece guide rod that enhances reliability and ease of use. Its smaller diameter and tapered profile let it tilt out of the slide to make takedown and reassembly easier. The longer shaft of the guide rod increases recoil spring reliability and life.

And, finally, Wilson Combat has crafted an integral big-mouth magwell to the compact-sized Aluminum X-Frame, and then they added reliability enhanced frame rails and an accessory/light rail. The gaping magwell/grip extension accepts an 18-round magazine with a newly configured base pad that has precisely machined grooves on both sides to help conduct faster and smoother magazine changes. Altogether, the magwell and magazines will help you reload the P1 in competition or in other high-stress situations  faster.

Everything else about the P1 is much the same as the EDC X9 2.0. Except  Wilson Combat finishes the P1 with black Armor-Tuff, and the barrel, barrel link, link pin, slide stop, magazine release, grip screws, and ambidextrous thumb safety all have a copper PVD coating. This makes for an attractive contrast that creates a pistol thats as beautiful as it is functional.

ON THE RANGE

To evaluate the P1 and work with the new mounting system with the little metal disks that interface with the slide and the reflex sight, a Trijicon RMR was mounted. This system is ingenious, because its hillbilly simple and allows you to choose between a wide variety of reflex sights. Even while zeroing the sight, it was easy to see how comfortable the P1 was to shoot. Granted, a 33-ounce 9mm pistol isnt known for abusive recoil, but shooting the P1 was like shooting a 33-ounce .380 Auto.

Five loads were evaluated in the P1 for precision from the bench at 15 yards. It included a mix of practice and carry ammunition. Overall, the pistol averaged 0.85 inch for (15) five-shot groups from a sandbag rest. Wilson Combat guarantees 1 inch or better groups at 25 yards, and theres little doubt that in the right hands  and in good weather  this pistol is fully capable of delivering on that promise.

This range session occurred in the middle of an arctic blast. In total, 400 rounds were fired of various munitions through the P1, and it didnt experience a single stoppage.

There was also a bit of distance shooting with the P1 with the Trijicon RMR sight installed. Silhouette targets at 100 yards werent a problem, and about half the time it was ringing an 8-inch steel plate at that distance. But for most of the test-fire process, the RMR was removed and the P1 was fired with the open sights. The P1 managed the best scores on the Forty-Five Drill and Step Back Drill, which are standard evaluation drills for handguns, compared to any handgun Ive ever tested.

WHATS IN THE BOX?

You can purchase the P1 at the base price of $3,995, which is only $688 more than their standard EDC X9 2.0 pistol. However, the first 100 come with a challenge coin and commemorative custom box, and itll cost you an additional $300.

Admittedly, the challenge coin isnt worth $300, but the box is. This small metal box measures only 7.5 by 9 inches, and it contains the pistol, three magazines, optics mounting plate, and reflex sight mounting pins. Magnets integral to the box hold the magazines and accessories in place. Its one of the coolest accessories ever supplied with any firearm, and  honestly  if you can afford the P1, you can likely afford the box to go with it.

LOOSE ROUNDS

If theres one complaint, its that theres no provision for co-witnessing sights when running a Trijicon RMR. Of course, selecting a reflex sight like the SIG Sauer RomeoZero with an integral rear sight notch or Leupold DeltaPoint Pro with adjustable iron sight solves that.

The P1 holds 18+1 rounds and the large magwell and magazine base plates make it easy/fast to load. It offers dime-splitting precision and gives you the option of fixed sights and a wide variety of reflex sight options. Its fast, easy to field strip and assemble, comfortable to shoot, and you can hammer the hell out of a target with minimal muzzle rise.

Its also a damned fine-looking pistol, and while looks dont make a pistol perform any better, they do enhance pride of ownership.

Sure, you could also buy a box of Glocks for the price of the P1, but you cant do the things you can do with a P1 with just any Glock pistol. Wilson Combat has elevated the bar with the P1. What do you want to see next in their Division 77 line?
'I now see rates rising again, particularly after recent losses  especially the January wildfires in Los Angeles.'

Following the company's third-quarter (Q3) earnings, Ramaswamy Narayanan, chairman and managing director GIC Re, spoke to Aathira Varier/Business Standard about the company's business strategy going forward while reflecting on its performance in the recently concluded quarter.

How do you see the performance, and what is your outlook?

We wrote about 26-28 per cent more compared to last year. It was a soft market, with a lot of capacities internationally.

Overall, we do about $1 billion in international business, of which almost $500 million came from renewals on January 1.

We are looking at similar growth in renewals starting April 1 on the international front.

Last year, we wrote more health business compared to other classes.

This time, we are looking at some of the newer classes -- liability, cyber, surety bonds, etc -- where we see growth opportunities.

Further, we are also looking at helping out companies. Now that collaterals are coming in, there will be areas where cross-border reinsurers may not want to write business because the volumes are small.

At the end of the day, our approach is clear -- the bottom line has to be positively affected. We will not support purely loss-making segments.

How has the ratings change supported the international business? Your international business accounted for nearly 40 per cent of your portfolio before the downgrade.

When do you see it returning to that level?

It will not be possible immediately. Currently, the ratio is 76:24 in favour of the domestic portfolio because international business declined this year as well.

Returning to the 60:40 ratio will be difficult for two reasons.

First, the domestic market is growing much faster than international markets.

Second, some classes of business that are available domestically are not present abroad.

We see too many opportunities here, especially with regulators introducing the risk-based capital framework and International Financial Reporting Standards.

Insurance companies will need more capital, and if they cannot secure it from their promoters, they will turn to reinsurance.

We will focus on writing quality, profitable business. While the overall mix may remain the same, I see the international business becoming profitable, with the combined ratio dropping below 100 -- maybe in the next two to three years.

The company's underwriting losses declined by around 62 per cent year-on-year...

We have been working to reduce underwriting losses. The domestic business has remained largely stable, but the key difference has been the foreign portfolio.

We have also performed well on the domestic front. The health business has done reasonably well, which has contributed to reducing losses.

We closed last year with about Rs 4,500 crore in underwriting losses. At the time, I predicted we would bring it down close to Rs 3,000 crore.

I believe we are on track to achieve that target.

With the January renewals complete, what trends do you see? How do you expect April renewals to be?

Renewal trends were soft because reinsurers have made money over the past two years.

Markets that experienced losses in the previous year naturally saw risk-adjusted rates rise. Some markets remained flat, while others softened, with prices decreasing.

I now see rates rising again, particularly after recent losses -- especially the January wildfires in Los Angeles (LA).

The direct market has been quite soft, so reinsurance rates will firm up to counterbalance that.

We will also assess how companies maintain those rates moving forward before making further decisions. Last April was slightly muted.

What is your exposure to the LA wildfire and the recent aviation incidents?

For one of the aviation incidents, we estimate about $7 million in exposure to potential claims.

Regarding the LA wildfire, we are still awaiting information, as the event was quite prolonged.

We have not received any loss outstanding data from our clients. Based on our understanding of the event, we have set aside around $25 billion.

However, I believe this estimate will decrease. At the time of our assessment, the insured loss was estimated at around $50 billion, but it has since been revised down to about $32 billion.

To that extent, we might see a reduction in our exposure.

What are your diversification plans in the domestic market?

The product mix will shift more towards retail, and that is what we are working on.

It will be a challenge, as retail business rarely enters the reinsurance market -- primary insurers can typically manage retail businesses themselves.

However, we are in discussions with companies to provide product capacities. We will share the business, with retail as our focus.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Nearly a dozen firms have shown interest in building the foundation model and LLMs, while others have proposed sector-specific SLMs.

Kindly note the image has been posted only for representational purposes. Illustration: Ruvic/Reuters

The government has received expressions of interest from more than 50 companies to develop an India-specific artificial intelligence (AI) foundation model, small language models (SLMs), and large language models (LLMs), sources familiar with the matter said.

Among them, nearly a dozen firms have shown interest in building the foundation model and LLMs, while others have proposed sector-specific SLMs, a source said.

"A detailed framework outlining the requirements for developing the foundation model, SLMs, or LLMs will be released in a few days. Bidders will need to qualify on parameters such as feasibility, scalability, and practicality of their proposals," a government official said.

On January 30, Union Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that India would have its own sovereign foundation model within 8 to 10 months, or by July if companies adopted an aggressive approach.

Meity has been working with experts in the fields of LLMs and SLMs for the past 18 months to develop a framework for India's AI foundation AI model, the minister said.

"We have asked all those interested to submit a PoC (proof of concept) for the ideas of LLM, SLM or foundation model that they wish to work on," another official said.

"A technical evaluation committee will shortly be formed to go through these submissions. We will then ask the shortlisted companies to start work on the prototype," another official added.

The foundation models are part of the Rs 10,372 crore (Rs 103.72 billion) INDIAai Mission, which was approved by the Union Cabinet in March 2024.

The government has outlined a two-pronged funding strategy for selected companies.

Under the direct funding model, companies will receive central government support in addition to state-level incentives.

The second approach involves equity-based funding, allowing private investors to participate.

Beyond foundation models, the government has also received bids from 10 companies to procure and supply 18,693 GPUs, including latest-generation models, such as the H100, H200, MI325, and MI300X.

Reliance Industries-owned Jio Platforms, Tata Communications and the Hiranandani Group-owned Yotta Data Services are among the key players that will procure and supply GPUs to startups, academics, researchers, and other users in the country.

To support AI innovation, the government will offer a 40 per cent discount on GPU access for startups, researchers, academic institutions, and students.

Additional discounts may be provided for users who commit to long-term usage of six months or more, an official said. These incentives will be available for the next four years.

SEVEN PILLARS OF INDIAai MISSION

Build a scalable AI ecosystem with services & resources Promote AI innovation by government intervention Streamline access to high-quality non-personal datasets for AI model training Promote indigenous creation of AI applications in priority, critical sectors Reduce barriers to AI education, ensure latest AI toolset access Support deep-tech AI startups by providing them incentives, mentoring Ensure responsible AI development by drawing clear guidelines, guardrails

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
Photo: State Committee for Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The event "Khojaly Voices: A Day of Remembrance" dedicated to the 33rd anniversary of the Khojaly genocide was held at the University of Denver in Denver, Colorado, a source in the Azerbaijani State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend.

According to the source, the event was organized with the support of the "Azerbaijani Diaspora in Colorado" organization and the State Committee on Work with Diaspora.

The memorial ceremony gathered employees of the Committee on Work with Diaspora, the Consulate of Azerbaijan in the US, members of the Azerbaijani community, and local public representatives.

The event commenced with the playing of the national anthems of Azerbaijan and the US and a minute of silence for the dear memory of the victims of the Khojaly genocide and martyrs who gave their lives for the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.

In her opening speech, the head of the "Azerbaijani Diaspora in Colorado" organization, Nigar Shikhsafiyeva, provided detailed information to the guests about the Khojaly genocide.

Salhat Abbasova, the head of the department of the Committee on Work with Diaspora, spoke about the Khojaly genocide's being a blood memory of the Azerbaijani people, the work done to restore international justice, and the return of internally displaced persons to their homelands after 30 years of longing.

Ramiz Dashdamirov, the head of the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles, briefed on the work done by the consulate to achieve a legal assessment of the genocide in the US.

A film about the Khojaly tragedy, prepared by ELTV and the "Vatan" Azerbaijani Culture and Art Center within the framework of the "History of Azerbaijan" project, was shown at the conference.

Community member Ulviyya Adigozalova performed sad music in memory of the victims of the Khojaly genocide. A theater scene dedicated by five minor members of our community in Colorado to children and babies who were victims of the Khojaly genocide was shown, and various poems were recited.

The event concluded with expressions of gratitude by the community members to the diaspora organization in Colorado for organizing such an event, despite its recent establishment, and wished it success in its future activities.

To note, holding such events, especially in the United States, is of great importance in terms of drawing attention to the issues of preventing Armenian disinformation and ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region. Such activities also contribute to the restoration of justice and truth in the region.

On the night of February 2526, 1992, the Khojaly genocideone of the most horrific crimes against humanity in the past centurywas carried out by Armenia with extreme brutality against Azerbaijani civilians.

On this solemn anniversary, the Azerbaijani people remember with deep sorrow the 613 victims of this atrocity, including 106 women, 70 elderly people, and 63 children, whose lives were taken in a single night.

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The big question now is whether the unprecedented fracas in the White House could backfire on Zelenskyy since Washington has significant leverage vis-a-vis Kyiv and given Ukraine's heavy dependence on the US for critical elements of its defence, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, February 28, 2025. Photographs: Brian Snyder/Reuters

The dramatic scene in the Oval Office on Friday, February 28, 2025 evening signals that President Donald Trump is decoupling the US from the 'forever war' in Ukraine that his predecessor Joe Biden left behind.

The war is poised to end with a whimper, but its 'butterfly effect' on our incredibly complex, deeply interconnected world will define European and international security for decades to come.

The Western media, which is hostile toward Trump, have seized the opportunity to caricature him as an impulsive figure in a role reversal with Zelenskyy.

In reality, though, Trump has been literally driven to this point by the Biden administration.

The highly charged emotional reaction by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commiserating with President Zelenskyy speaks for itself: 'Your dignity honours the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone, dear President.'

Trump's refusal to give von der Leyen an appointment may partly explain her fury as a woman scorned.

Truly, the 'Collective West' find themselves at a crossroads and do not know which road to take.

Without US air cover and satellite inputs, Western troop deployment in Ukraine will be impossible.

Even French President Emmanuel Macron would agree that his troops will be put through a meat grinder.

Both von der Leyen and Macron had a whale of a time as cheerleaders of Biden's war but any further adventures in Ukraine will be suicidal, to put it mildly.

Ukraine's military will collapse if Trump freezes support. None of the European powers will risk a collision with Russia.

Trump knows by now that the Western narrative of Biden's war is a load of b******t peppered with falsehoods and outright lies, and that the war erupted only out of the diabolic Western plot to poke the bear, which got provoked finally and hit out.

The CIA's coup in Kyiv in February 2014 was a watershed event paving the way for a NATO presence on Ukrainian soil.

Indeed, terrible things happened, which have been shoved under the carpet -- for instance, then German foreign minister (current president) Frank-Walter Steinmeier's dubious links with the neo-Nazi Ukrainian groups who acted as storm troopers in the 2014 coup.

Just think of the grotesqueness of it -- a German Social Democrat patronising neo-Nazi groups!

Most certainly, Trump knows that the US deep state had set in motion an agenda to destabilise the Russian Federation and dismember it as the unfinished business no sooner than the Soviet Union was dissolved.

The Chechen War has no other explanation. In fact, Putin has accused (external link) US agents of directly aiding the insurgents.

Again, the Clinton administration floated the idea of NATO expansion as early as in 1994. It came out of the blue but was obviously a work in progress since the day after the disbandment of the Soviet Union.

By the mid-nineties, even Boris Yeltsin understood that he was played nicely.

The return of Evgeny Primakov to the Kremlin and Yeltsin's overture to Beijing were the surest signs of a course correction.

IMAGE: Zelenskyy, Trump and US Vice President J D Vance in the Oval Office, February 28, 2025. Photograph: Brian Snyder/Reuters

Those familiar with Soviet history had known all along that Ukraine would be the theatre where the US would set the bear trap and try to seal the fate of Russia.

If further confirmation was needed, it came with the CIA's colour revolution in Ukraine in 2003 where the election was rigged (as is happening in Romania today) and carried to a third round until the proxy emerged 'victorious' -- and surely, Viktor Yushchenko brought the NATO membership issue to the table.

Just four years thereafter, at the 2008 NATO summit in Bucharest, George W Bush insisted that the alliance formally offered membership to Ukraine, ignoring Vladimir Putin's protestations in real time at the venue, rubbing the bear's nose in the dust!

Today, Britain's MI6 calls the shots in Kyiv. Zelenskyy admitted recently that much of the money given by Biden simply 'disappeared'.

Sordid tales of massive kickbacks and corruption are galore. Biden knew but ignored them.

The Biden family's involvement in Ukraine's cesspools is widely known. Contrary to his pledge earlier not to do so, Biden felt constrained finally to grant a presidential pardon to son Hunter Biden so that he wouldn't end up in jail.

Suffice to say, Zelenskyy's 'strategic defiance' stems out of his quiet confidence that Western leaders -- starting with Boris Johnson and Biden -- who have been fellow travellers in the gravy train during the past three years of the war are beholden to him till eternity.

His belligerence last Friday was carefully stage-managed theatrics and he was put up to it most probably by von der Leyen and sundry other discontented 30-odd Western leaders like Canada's Justin Trudeau who confabulated in Kiev last Monday even as Macron was 'finessing' Trump in the Oval Office.

These insurgents within the Western alliance seem to think that Trump will back off if frontally confronted.

In sum, Trump and J D Vance did just the right thing by putting Zelenskyy in his due place and called the bluff of the Europeans.

The axis between Zelenskyy and his European Union supporters in cajoling Trump, pressuring him and flattering him in turn to get him on board the bandwagon so that the war rolls on for another four years.

Last week alone, the presidents of France and Poland and the British prime minister descended on the White House one after another seeking assurance that the war in Ukraine will continue.

But Trump has refused to oblige. (external link)

Zelenskyy and his European backers want a 'forever war' in the western border lands of Eurasia, the traditional invasion route to Russia for marauders from Europe.

IMAGE: Britain's Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Zelenskyy at 10 Downing Street in London, March 1, 2025. Photograph: Peter Nicholls/Pool via Reuters

And precisely for this reason, Trump last week, with great deliberation, again ruled out NATO membership for Ukraine.

He also pointed to the ongoing talks on 'major economic development transactions which will take place between the United States and Russia'.

Trump repeated last week that the war could be ended 'within weeks' and warned of the risk of escalation into a 'third world war'.

Basically, he realises that this is an unwinnable war, and is apprehensive that a prolonged war may transform into a quagmire sinking his presidency and derailing the grand bargain he hopes to strike with the two other superpowers, Russia and China, to create synergy for his ambitious MAGA project.

Trump has chalked up 2026, the Quarter Millennial of the United States Declaration of Independence, for hosting the leaders of Russia and China on American soil to celebrate the high noon of his quest for world peace.

The European political elites weaned on the liberal-globalist 'rules-based order' cannot understand Trump's deep-rooted convictions and his abhorrence of war.

The big question now is whether the unprecedented fracas in the White House could backfire on Zelenskyy (and the insurgents in Europe), since Washington has significant leverage vis-a-vis Kyiv and given the latter's heavy dependence on the US for some of the critical elements of its defence.

IMAGE: Trump meets with French President Emmanuel Macron at the White House, February 24, 2025. Photograph: Brian Snyder/Reuters

Following the Oval Office argument, Zelenskyy issued a lengthy statement (external link) admitting that it is 'crucial' for Ukraine to have Trump's support.

A patch-up cannot be ruled out but the transatlantic system has received a big jolt, as the overwhelming majority of European countries have voiced support for Zelenskyy.

In fact, there hasn't been a solitary voice censuring Zelenskyy. Britain kept mum.

Keir Starmer, the UK prime minister, hosted a meeting of European leaders on Sunday which Zelenskyy attended.

It is unlikely that the Europeans will push the envelope at their conclave on Sunday as it becomes clear that Trump is in no forgiving mood.

But the damage has been done. The transatlantic alliance will never be the same again.

In this dismal scenario, the best hope is that Zelenskyy's ouster, which seems probable, will not be a violent bloody event, considering the power rivalries within the regime in Kyiv.

At any rate, his replacement may not be a terrible thing to happen since it would necessitate holding the long overdue election in Ukraine and lead to the emergence of a legitimate leadership in Kyiv, which has now become a dire necessity for what Trump would call 'common sense' to prevail.

Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar served the Indian Foreign Service for 29 years.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'Maybe this has created some minor issues which can happen in any party.'

IMAGE: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with Rahul Gandhi and General Secretary (Organisation) K C Venugopal chairs a meeting with the party's Kerala leaders at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi, February 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

If one were to say that the Congress in Kerala is in a leadership crisis, it is no exaggeration. There are far too many leaders in the state, and every leader has a 'camp' too.

And it is a well-known secret that one of the major reasons why the United Democratic Front suffered a humiliating defeat in the 2021 assembly elections was the functioning of these divided camps.

In a recent interview, the charismatic Thiruvanathapuram MP, Shashi Tharoor spoke about the divided house and his desire to be viewed as a favourable Congress leader in the state. Naturally it stirred a hornet's nest.

The repercussions of Tharoor's outspoken opinion (which he later refuted in a post on X) were so much that a constituent of the UDF, the Indian Union Muslin League's state president Panakkad Sayyid Sadik Ali Shihab Thangal called on the Congress to address internal leadership disputes in its Kerala unit.

"If someone is pointing out the mistakes you are making, you should take it the right spirit and move forward," Sayyid Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal, president of the Muslim Youth League of Kerala. tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier.

For the last few years, we have been hearing about the presence of so many leaders and their camps in the Congress party.

After an interview Shashi Tharoor gave in a podcast to a national daily, in Malayalam, the issue has become alive again.

How much do you think this will this affect the UDF's prospects in next year's assembly elections?

The Congress has many capable leaders in Kerala, and maybe this has created some minor issues which, of course, can happen in any party. It is but natural for any party to have such debates and discussions before any election.

The fact is, when there are many strong and capable leaders, every one of them can contribute a lot to the alliance and the party.

We are confident that the Congress will sit together and solve the issue of leadership.

We are also confident that everyone will come together and work together as a single unit to bring the UDF back to power.

For that to happen, the UDF will elect a leader unanimously also.

The IUML state president also reacted after Tharoor said if things continued like this, the Left Democratic Front would come back to power in 2026.

It may be his concern. In every party, leaders will air their concerns.

We have to take such opinions in a positive way. If someone is pointing out the mistakes you are making, you should take it the right spirit and move forward.

We are very sure that the Congress will solve the leadership issue amicably.

IMAGE: Kharge, Rahul and Venugopal at the meeting with the Congress' Kerala leaders. Photograph: ANI Photo

IUML is a partner in the UDF. How will you make the Congress realise that the presence of too many leaders and their camps was a reason why the UDF lost the last assembly election?

That was the first time in Kerala's political history that a government was re-elected...

The welfare politics at the time of Covid was a major reason why the LDF won again. Everybody knows that too.

It is also a reality that the government was able to help people a lot at that time.

When people are in such a frame of mind, it is but natural for them to vote favourably for the incumbent government.

This is what we believe in. We don't believe that people voted the LDF back because they ruled better.

We also don't believe that the so-called camps in the Congress resulted in the loss of the UDF.

We see 'too many leaders' in a party as a positive thing.

We have always chosen the most eligible person as the leader to lead the alliance.

The next election before us is the panchayat election. And our agenda is to win it. We have regular discussions on the strategy to adopt by the alliance.

After that only, we will start thinking about the 2026 assembly election.

IMAGE: Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who represents Wayanad in the Lok Sabha, at the meeting with the Congress' Kerala leaders. Photograph: ANI Photo

There is talk that Hindu votes are going away from the UDF to the BJP. The BJP is also wooing Christians in a very strong way...

We don't think such a thing is happening in Kerala. We are sure our votes will remain with us, and nobody will be able to take our votes away from us.

The UDF does not have to use the communal card to ask for votes.

Using communal card is the tactic used by the BJP.

We believe in inclusivity. We will take everyone together irrespective of their religion or caste.

People of Kerala know very well that the UDF will not use the communal card, and they trust us also.

I can confidently say that not a single UDF vote will go the communal way.

Last time, did the Christian votes not get transferred to the BJP?

It is not that parties do not try to win over communities. Both the CPM and BJP try to do that.

But the people of Kerala will not get swayed by such communal tactics.

IMAGE: Kharge, Rahul, Priyanka, Venugopal with the Congress' Kerala leaders. Photograph: ANI Photo

So, the IUML is not worried about the UDF's prospects in the next election?

We are not worried at all. Why should we be worried?

It is clear that the people of Kerala are totally fed up of the LDF rule.

Majority of the public is disillusioned with the LDF, and they definitely want a change of rule.

IMAGE: Sayyid Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal. Photograph: Kind courtesy Sayyid Munavvar Ali Shihab Thangal

For that to happen, don't you think the UDF needs a strong leader like Oommen Chandy or K Karunakaran or A K Antony?

UDF has a strong leadership even today. There is no dearth of capable leadership in the UDF. We have to look at this aspect in a positive way and move forward.

If we have many candidates with strong leadership qualities to choose from, on their side, they only have one Pinarayi Vijayan!

At the time of the election, we will make the people of Kerala understand that we will be able to give a strong administration under a capable leader.

Believe me, it is going to be the times of the UDF hereafter.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
The mortality-to-incidence ratio for India was 64.47 per cent in 2022, the highest while comparing the top 10 countries with the highest number of cancer incidences.

Kindly note the image has been published only for representational purposes. Photograph: Vivek Prakash/Reuters

The Budget for 2025-2026 announced steps to fight cancer in India, one of the worst affected countries in terms of cases and deaths.

Steps proposed included establishing day care cancer centres in all district hospitals in three years and full exemption of cancer treatment drugs from basic customs duty.

As many as three out of five Indians diagnosed with cancer died of the disease in 2022, according to a recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research.

Data from the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022 show that India is third after China and the United States in terms of absolute number of cancer incidences globally, according to a study published in The Lancet Regional Health - Southeast Asia.

India's mortality-to-incidence ratio (cancer mortalities compared to cancer incidences) was 64.47 per cent in 2022, the highest among the 10 countries with the highest number of cancer incidences.

Indonesia (58.66 per cent), China (50.57 per cent) and Russia (47.34 per cent) followed India.

The US had more people with cancer but it had a mortality-to-incidence ratio of 23.81 per cent, significantly lower than India.

India had 889,742 cancer deaths in 2022, second only to China's 2.32 million deaths.

Breast cancer was the most prevalent cancer in Indian females with 31.1 per cent of new cases, followed by cervical (19.6 per cent) and ovarian (7 per cent) cancer.

Breast (24 per cent) and cervical (20.6 per cent) were the leading causes of cancer-related mortalities in females.

Among males, oral cancer was the most commonly diagnosed (24.3 per cent) and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality (21.6 per cent).

Data on gender and cancer in India shows that in 2022 the female crude incidence rate (CIR) in the reproductive age group (60.08) was higher compared to the male CIR of 37.25 in the same age group.

CIR for males aged 70 or more was 640.08, considerably higher than geriatric (above 70 years) female CIR of 456.02 in 2022.

Crude mortality rate (CMR) for females in the reproductive age group (27.65) was greater than males (20.87).

In all other age groups, male CMR was worse than female. CIR and CMR refer to the proportion of total cancer incidences/mortalities out of total population expressed per 1,00,000 individuals.

The Lancet study projected that cancer-related mortalities in India will increase 2 per cent annually over the next two decades, as the population transitions from the reproductive age group (15 to 49 years) to the middle-aged (50 to 69 years) and geriatric (above 70 years) counterparts.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'Currently, it takes between two and three years to formulate the request for proposal for procuring specific military equipment for the armed forces. It should not be this way.'

IMAGE: DRDO conducts the successful flight test of a new-generation Akash missile off the Odisha coast. Photograph: ANI Photo

The process to 'significantly' shorten timelines for defence procurement is likely to be completed in three months -- by early June -- it is learnt.

According to sources in the ministry of defence (MoD), procedural reforms in the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 document to streamline India's defence procurement policy -- often criticised for delays and inefficiencies -- are expected to be completed in six months, by early September.

"Currently, it takes between two and three years to formulate the request for proposal (RFP) for procuring specific military equipment for the armed forces. It should not be this way," said a source, adding: "The prolonged time taken for field evaluation trials and cost negotiations will also be reduced."

It was also indicated that the groundwork for shortening these timelines had already been laid.

In line with the MoD's decision to observe 2025 as the 'Year of Reforms', the sources said a committee had recently been established under the additional secretary and director general (acquisition) to drive procedural reforms in DAP 2020.

The reforms aim to eliminate redundancies and make the acquisition process more efficient in meeting the needs of the three armed services while addressing the pain points of the defence industry, including domestic private firms and global original equipment manufacturers.

The committee's meetings are expected to commence soon and will involve a diverse range of stakeholders, including industry representatives from both the public and private sectors, as well as startups and think tanks.

The acquisition of defence equipment currently takes over 5 to 7 years to complete, with field-evaluation trials alone taking up to three years.

The process involves multiple stages, beginning with the accordance of Acceptance of Necessity, followed by the issuance of the Request for Information and the formulation of General Staff Qualitative Requirements.

This is followed by the issuance of the Request for Proposal, vendor responses, technical evaluation, field evaluation trials, General Staff evaluation, bid opening, and the identification of the lowest bidder.

The process then moves to cost negotiations, the conclusion of the Contract Negotiation Committee, and approval from the Competent Financial Authority, culminating in the signing of the contract.

Deliveries begin only years after this process is completed.

The Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force have all faced procurement delays, with urgency rising amid the rapid development and deployment of military technologies in India's neighbourhood, particularly by China.

The domestic defence industry, particularly private players, has also cited the lengthy procurement process as a business challenge.

"The defence industry welcomes any step to cut down acquisition time," said Rajinder Singh Bhatia, chairman of Kalyani Group's defence business and President of the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers.

Emphasising the need for reforms, Bhatia noted that in high-technology domains, the time taken for acquisition must be shorter than that for technology development.

"The process is currently linear, but adopting parallel processing can help reduce timelines," Bhatia explained.

Explaining the urgency of reforms from the user's perspective, General Manoj Mukund Naravane (retd), former chief of the army staff, said, "Our long-drawn defence capital acquisition processes can hinder the procurement of cutting-edge technology."

Emphasising the need for reforms in DAP 2020 to ensure a regular and sustained capability-building process, the general added, "With new and disruptive technologies emerging at an increasingly rapid pace, the challenge of avoiding technological obsolescence has become more pressing."

For example, the lengthy acquisition process, coupled with delays in indigenous programmes, has reduced the IAF's active squadrons to 31, well below the authorised 42, with an ageing fleet and delayed inductions further exacerbating the issue.

Of the Rs 6.81 trillion MoD budgetary allocation for 2025-2026, Rs 1.8 trillion, or 26.43 per cent, will be spent on capital outlay on defence services.

Of this, Rs 1.49 trillion is allocated for capital acquisition, referred to as the modernisation budget of the armed forces.

The capital outlay on defence services has seen a modest 4.65 per cent increase over the 2024-2025 Budget Estimate of Rs 1.72 trillion.

The FY25 Revised Estimate under this head was also lowered to Rs 1.60 trillion, with the 2025-2026 allocation being 12.85 per cent higher.

Defence industry insiders believe that reforms in defence acquisition, particularly in expediting the process, are essential for the efficient utilisation of capital outlay allocations.

FASTER ACQUISITIONS Defence procurement timelines to be 'significantly' shortened by early June Procedural reforms in the DAP 2020 document to be completed by early September Committee set up under AS & DG (Acquisition) to drive procedural reforms in DAP 2020 Committee meetings to commence soon and involve all stakeholders

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
A day after removing her nephew Akash Anand from all key posts, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Monday said she has expelled him from the party 'in the interest and movement' of the party.

IMAGE: BSP supremo Mayawati during a party meeting, in Lucknow January 16, 2025. Party leader Akash Anand, right, is also seen. Photograph: ANI Photo

Mayawati said that Akash's response to her action against him on Sunday was 'selfish and arrogant'.

In a BSP meeting on Sunday, Akash was relieved from all responsibilities as he was under the continuous influence of his father-in-law Ashok Siddharth, more than the interest of the party, for which he should 'repent and show his maturity', she said.

'But on the contrary, the lengthy response given by Shri Akash is not a sign of his remorse and political maturity, but is mostly selfish, arrogant and non-missionary under the influence of his father-in-law,' Mayawati said in a post on X in Hindi.

'Therefore, in the interest of the self-respect and self-esteem of the movement of the most revered Baba Saheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and following the tradition of discipline of Manaywar Shri Kanshiram ji, Shri Akash Anand, like his father-in-law, is expelled from the party in the interest of the party and the movement,' Mayawati said.

The former chief minister had sacked Akash last year only to later reinstate him and appoint him her political successor.

On Sunday, the BSP supremo removed Akash from all party posts and appointed his father Anand Kumar and Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Gautam as national coordinators of the party in his place.

She also said that she would not name a successor in her lifetime.

Responding to the Mayawati's announcement removing him from key party posts, Akash on Monday said he respects every decision of the party chief and regards them as patthar ki lakeer (carved in stone).

In a post on X in Hindi, Akash said, 'I am a cadre of Mayawati ji and under her leadership I have learnt unforgettable lessons of sacrifice, loyalty and dedication, all these are not just an idea for me, but the purpose of my life.'

'Every decision of Behan ji (Mayawati) is like a patthar ki lakeer for me. I respect and stand by every decision taken by her. The decision left me emotional, but it is a big challenge now, the test is difficult and there's a long battle ahead,' he said.

Calling himself a true worker of the Bahujan movement, Akash said patience and determination are the true companions of an individual in such difficult times.

'I will continue to work with full devotion for the party and the mission and fight for the rights of my society till my last breath,' he said.

Hitting out at his political rivals, he said, 'Some people from the rival party are thinking that my political career is over... They should understand that the Bahujan movement is not a career, but a fight for self-respect and self-esteem of crores of Dalits, exploited, deprived and poor people.'

'This is an idea, a movement, which cannot be suppressed. Lakhs of Akash Anands are always ready to keep this torch burning and sacrifice everything for it,' he added.

While removing Akash from key posts, Mayawati on Sunday said the party is supreme and relations can come later.

She had also hit out at his father-in-law Ashok Siddharth, accusing him of trying to weaken the BSP by dividing it into two groups. Mayawati last month expelled Siddharth from the BSP on charges of factionalism and anti-party activities.
The ongoing Bullet Train project between Mumbai and Ahmedabad has achieved significant progress with the completion of 386 km of pier foundation and 272 km of viaduct out of total 508 km of length as on February 27, 2025, the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited said on Monday, adding the track laying work is yet to start.

IMAGE: A view of the ongoing works of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Project. Photograph: ANI Photo

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw visited Ahmedabad earlier on Saturday (March 1) to review its progress and expressed satisfaction with the pace of construction work.

According to the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited, besides the completion of 386 km of pier foundation work, 372 km of pier work has been made ready and girder casting has also been done on 305 kms.

Pier foundation is the first stage under which a base is dug out for a large-diameter cylindrical column under the ground and when this column is erected above the ground using concrete and metal it is called pier work, experts engaged in civil engineering work said.

According to experts, a concrete superstructure, placed on the top of two piers to connect them, is known as girder casting and once a series of such structures are made ready, it is called viaduct.

The NHSRCL said that 305 km of girder casting has been completed and track bed, on which the track will finally be fixed, has also been laid up to 112 km in Gujarat.

Overhead electrification work started in Gujarat, said a press statement from the NHSRCL.

The officials said that though the track laying work hasn't been started yet, it will happen soon as all other associated infra work is ready now.

The total length of the project is 508 km out of which 352 km falls in Gujarat and Dadar & Nagar Haveli and the remaining 156 km is in Maharashtra.

12 stations, which have been planned are Mumbai, Thane, Virar, Boisar, Vapi, Bilimora, Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Anand, Ahmedabad and Sabarmati, the press note said.

Structural work is completed for six out of eight stations in Gujarat and work has started on three elevated stations in Maharashtra.

So far the 12th station, ie, Mumbai is concerned, its base slab is being cast, it added.

According to the NHSRCL, there are 13 river bridges along the 508 km route and all of them have been made ready.

Bridges on three rivers such as Par, Auranga and Kolak in Valsad district and six rivers such as Purna, Mindhola, Ambika, Venganiya, Kaveri and Kharera in Navsari district are ready.

The other three rivers like Mohar, Vatrak, Meshwa in Kheda district and one river Dhadhar in Vadodara district also have bridges made ready within a record span of time, the NHSRCL officials said.

Six steel bridges and five prestressed concrete bridges are also ready at various places where the bullet train is crossing roads and highways.

Besides, noise barriers have been installed on both sides over 130 km along the route, they added.

The officials also said that there are seven mountain tunnels along the route in Maharashtra's Palghar district and all of them are under construction through New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM).

Updating the progress of the 21 km tunnel between Bandra Kurla Complex and Shilphata in Maharashtra, out of which the 7 km stretch is under the sea at Thane Creek, the NHSRCL officials said that the work is progressing significantly.
China has honoured an army regiment commander who was injured in the Galwan Valley border clash with Indian soldiers in 2020 as an outstanding member of the national advisory body -- Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

IMAGE: Indian soldiers of 16 Bihar Regiment during the clash with Chinese soldiers in the Galwan valley in 2020. Photograph: ANI Photo

Qi Fabao was among the 33 individuals honoured with the 2024 Outstanding Performance Award for CPPCC Members at a ceremony held in Beijing on Sunday, the Global Times reported, quoting the CPPCC Daily.

In 2022, Qi was made the torchbearer for the Winter Olympics, which prompted Indian diplomats to boycott the opening and closing ceremonies of the event.

Earlier, Qi was awarded by the Central Military Commission with the title of 'Hero Regimental Commander for Defending the Border' and honoured with the July 1 Medal in 2021 by the Communist Party of China Central Committee, according to the report.

In January 2023, Qi was invited as a special guest and became a CPPCC member following the announcement of the list of members of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC, it said.

China had admitted the death of four of its soldiers eight months after the Galwan clash.

A total of 20 Indian soldiers died in the clash, regarded as the worst in over four decades at the India-China border. While India announced the casualties immediately after the incident, China revealed its casualties eight months later.

The relations between the two countries were frozen for over four years following the Galwan clash and the Eastern Ladakh standoff.

The ties were restored after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at Kazan in Russia last October on the sidelines of the BRICS summit.

It was followed by a series of meetings, including the meeting of the Special Representatives on the boundary question National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the Foreign Secretary-level talks.
A 31-year-old man, who had killed a teenager for sharing a social media post in 2021, was apprehended from Rudrapur in Uttarakhand, police said on Monday.

The accused, Bhuvan Joshi, was apprehended after an undercover head-constable posed as a momos seller to confirm his identification.

Joshi had been on the run since the murder of the 17-year-old boy in Delhi's Uttam Nagar area.

In December 2021, the victim was abducted and stabbed to death by a group of men after his social media post sparked criticism. While the other accused were arrested, Joshi managed to escape and was declared a proclaimed offender by a court in June 2022.

"After four years of evasion, the crime branch officials tracked Joshi to Rudrapur, where he had changed his identity and was running a Chinese food stall," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Crime, Aditya Gautam.

The officer further said that a team was continuously searching the accused and after his location was verified, a team was sent to Rudrapur and he was apprehended.

The DCP said the police deployed an undercover operation to confirm his presence.

Head constable Sonveer posed as a momos seller and gathered crucial information about the accused. On March 2, Joshi was finally identified and arrested near Savera Apartment.

Initially, he attempted to mislead the officers but later confessed to his involvement in the murder. He has been brought back to Delhi for further legal proceedings.
'Let Fadnavisji prove to the people of Maharashtra that he acts fairly against one and all.'

IMAGE: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, right, addresses a press conference in Nagpur alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Photograph: ANI Photo

Maharashtra's politics is once again rocked by controversy, with yet another MLA from Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's Nationalist Congress Party at the centre of a storm that threatens to further strain the relationship between the three political parties that make the ruling Mahayuti coalition government, which is now into its third month after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in on December 5, 2024 following a landslide victory.

Two of Pawar's close allies -- Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Dhananjay Munde -- are embroiled in serious legal and political troubles. As Opposition leaders sharpen their attacks, questions about Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' fire-fighting skills and Pawar's hold over his party loom large.

On February 20, a Nashik district court sentenced Agriculture Minister Manikrao Kokate to two years in prison for fraudulently acquiring a government flat under the chief minister's discretionary quota in 1995.

The court found that Kokate and his brother Sunil Kokate had submitted false income documents to obtain flats meant for economically weaker sections. Along with the jail term, they were fined Rs 50,000 each.

Kokate, a senior leader in Ajit Pawar's faction of the Nationalist Congress Party, was immediately granted bail to appeal the verdict.

Kokate dismissed the verdict as a 'political conspiracy' dating back three decades. 'I have full faith in the judiciary and will fight this battle in the higher courts,' he told reporters soon after the court order, refusing to step down despite mounting pressure.

The conviction, however, has intensified Opposition demands for Kokate's immediate resignation. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar criticised the delay in action against Kokate, highlighting the swift disqualification of Opposition members in similar cases.

"The Speaker must immediately issue a notification for Manikrao Kokate's disqualification," Wadettiwar told this correspondent. He was referring to the legal provisions that disqualify any elected public representative sentenced to two years or more in prison.

Newly-appointed Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Harshawardhan Sapkal accused the ruling coalition of shielding corrupt ministers. 'Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar lack the courage to act against their corrupt ministers. They are running a government that thrives on favouritism and selective action,' Sapkal reportedly said.

Caught in a Political Storm

IMAGE: Nationalist Congress Party leader Dhananjay Munde, Devendra Fadnavis and Munde's controversial aide Walmik Karad soon after the Mahayuti alliance won a huge victory in the Maharashtra assembly election. Photograph: Kind courtesy Walmik Karad/Instagram

Even before the Kokate controversy unfolded, another scandal which erupted after the murder of Santosh Deshmukh, in which a close associate of Munde, Walmik Karad, was arrested as the main accused, had put the Fadnavis government in a tight spot.

The Opposition had been quick to demand Munde's resignation, alleging that his links to the accused raised serious concerns.

Ajit Pawar has been evasive when asked about Munde's future in the Maharashtra cabinet. 'You should ask Munde whether he will quit on moral grounds,' Ajit Pawar told reporters, indicating that the minister's fate rested in his own hands.

'I have been saying since the first day that strict action will be taken against every accused in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case', has been Fadnavis' consistent position on the issue.

"Fadnavis saheb must show to the people of Maharashtra who the boss is in the Mahayuti government," a Shiv Sena (UBT) MP told this correspondent, adding, "But given his relationship with Eknath Shinde, he can't flex his political muscle against Ajit Dada's MLAs and ministers."

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, scotching reports of a cold war between himself and Fadnavis, recently remarked that his relationship with the CM was 'thanda-thanda-cool-cool'.

Ajit Pawar Under Fire

IMAGE: Ajit Pawar with Dhananjay Munde and Walmik Karad, centre, at a public meeting in Beed much before Karad was arrested in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case. Photograph: Kind courtesy Walmik Karad/Instagram

Wadettiwar questions both Fadnavis' and Pawar's silence on the issue. "Ajit Pawar and Fadnavis have defended Munde, claiming the accusations against him were unproven. Yet, now a minister from his (Pawar's) party (Kokate) has been convicted. Why hasn't he removed him?"

"Isn't it the height of arrogance to use one standard for your allies and another for others simply because you hold power?" asks Waddetiwar.

Political observers argue that Pawar's handling of the Kokate crisis will have long-term implications for his leadership and the NCP's public image. His reluctance to act decisively could weaken his position within the Mahayuti coalition.

"Ajit Pawar or Fadnavis cannot act against Munde given that he belongs to one of the most powerful OBC castes in Maharashtra, more so in Beed district," says political commentator Unmesh Gujarati.

Munde belongs to the Wanjari caste, a dominant political grouping among the Other Backward Classes in Maharashtra.

Rift in the Mahayuti Alliance

IMAGE: Devendra Fadnavis with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Mahayuti MLAs at the Vidhan Bhavan in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI Photo

As if internal turmoil within the NCP wasn't enough, the Mahayuti coalition itself appears to be on somewhat shaky ground. Reports of a growing rift between Chief Minister Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Shinde have surfaced, adding another layer of complexity to the crisis.

Shinde, who leads the Shiv Sena faction allied to the BJP, has expressed dissatisfaction with recent developments and warned detractors 'not to take him lightly'.

Political insiders suggest that Shinde is frustrated with the BJP's dominant role in the coalition and is seeking greater autonomy.

"Only Shinde saheb has the guts to speak as strongly as he is speaking over these issues. He is sending a signal to those around him not to play games with him and take him seriously," a Shiv Sena MLA close to Shinde told this correspodent.

Among other niggling issues, the Fadnavis-Shinde duo have not seen eye-to-eye over guardianship of Nashik and Raigad districts in Maharashtra with Shiv Sena MLAs from both districts putting pressure on their leader to demand the position of guardian ministers.

Opposition's Aggressive Stand

Sensing an opportunity, Opposition parties have gone on the offensive, painting the Mahayuti government as corrupt and incompetent. "The Mahayuti government no longer has any moral authority to remain in power. It is imperative for Chief Minister Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to be transparent and take decisive action," says Sushma Andhare, a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader who has often picked cudgels with Shinde, Pawar and Fadnavis.

Wadettiwar also accuses the government of double standards, pointing out Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's swift disqualification from the Lok Sabha after his conviction, while Kokate remains in office.

"The BJP government in Delhi moved swiftly to suspend Rahul Gandhi. I request the prime minister to demand Manikrao Kokate's resignation or ask Fadnavis to sack him immediately," he says.

"Let Fadnavisji prove to the people of Maharashtra that he acts fairly against one and all. If the government wants to maintain even a shred of credibility, he must ask Kokate to step down immediately. Anything less is a mockery of justice," says Andhare.

The Road Ahead

As Manikrao Kokate prepares to appeal his conviction, Dhananjay Munde's political fate hangs in the balance, and the blow-hot-blow-cold relationship between Fadnavis and Shinde making its presence felt often these days, the political climate in Maharashtra remains tense.

The outcome of Kokate's legal battle and the pressure to sack Munde owing to his proximity to Karad, the main accused in the Santosh Deshmukh murder case, will remain critical in determining who trumps who and how political equations shape up in the ruling coalition in the days ahead.

For Ajit Pawar and Fadnavis, taking these challenges head-on requires a tightrope walk as both issues will be raked up during the Budget session of the Maharashtra assembly beginning today, March 3, 2025.

Pawar also faces the dual challenge of addressing the controversies surrounding his close associates while managing the delicate balance of power within the Mahayuti alliance.

As Maharashtra watches with bated breath, one thing is clear: The state's political drama is far from over.
Tanaji Shinde, whose daughter Nilam is fighting for her life after an accident in the United States, visited her at the hospital in California where she is being treated, her family said on Monday.

IMAGE: Tanaji Shinde. Photograph: ANI on X

"Nilam's father flew from Mumbai to the US on March 2 and immediately after landing there, rushed to the UC Davis Medical Center near Sacramento in California," Nilam's maternal uncle Sanjay Kadam told PTI.

"My son Gaurav, who works with an IT firm in Pune, accompanied Nilam's father from Mumbai onwards," Kadam, who lives in Satara district, said.

"They reached the hospital where she has been in a comatose condition since the accident last month. The hospital authorities will be holding a meeting tomorrow morning to decide on the further line of treatment," Kadam said.

Nilam, 35, was taking a walk on February 14 when she was struck by a speeding vehicle. She suffered severe fractures to legs, her left arm and skull, besides a traumatic brain injury that left her comatose.

She had last met her father in Satara in February last year after her mother passed away.

Nilam earned her degree in computer science from Savitribai Phule Pune University and was a post graduate in data analytics from San Jose State University.
Photo: State Committee for Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Azerbaijani diaspora and embassy employees respectfully commemorated the victims of the Khojaly genocide at the Azerbaijani Embassy in Bulgaria, a source in the Azerbaijani State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend.

According to the source, Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Bulgaria Huseyn Huseynov, along with diaspora members Sabir Guliyev and Nargiz Ahmadova, provided detailed information to the participants about the tragic genocide events that took place in Khojaly.

In their speeches, they highlighted President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's visits to Khojaly after its liberation from Armenia's occupation, as well as his meetings with the residents. It was emphasized that comprehensive conditions were created for the comfortable lives and activities of the people in Khojaly. Important work was done to ensure the safe living of our compatriots returning to their homeland, their employment, the improvement of their welfare, and the protection and restoration of the environment.

Later, footage prepared by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation about the Khojaly genocide was shown.

Such activities carried out by diaspora organizations and activists are extremely beneficial in terms of accurately conveying Azerbaijan's realities and historical truths to the international community.

On the night of February 2526, 1992, the Khojaly genocideone of the most horrific crimes against humanity in the past centurywas carried out by Armenia with extreme brutality against Azerbaijani civilians.

On this solemn anniversary, the Azerbaijani people remember with deep sorrow the 613 victims of this atrocity, including 106 women, 70 elderly people, and 63 children, whose lives were taken in a single night.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Haryana Police on Monday arrested a 'friend' of Congress worker Himani Narwal for allegedly strangling her with a wired mobile charger after a fight at her home in Rohtak and later dumping her body in a suitcase.

IMAGE: The accused in Haryana Police custody. Photograph: ANI on X

Himani's body was found stuffed in a suitcase in Rohtak on Saturday, leading to the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) to probe the murder.

Speaking to reporters in Rohtak, Additional DGP K K Rao said the accused, Sachin, hails from Jhajjar district, where he runs a mobile phone shop, and was arrested in Delhi.

Rao said it was a murder with few clues.

"When the body was found, we set up eight teams, including an SIT. Our priority was to identify the victim when her body was found. When the family identified her, the police conducted swift investigations to trace out the accused.

"For the past one-and-half years, the accused was in contact with the woman through social media and also used to visit her home.

"The woman used to live alone in Vijay Nagar. On February 27, the accused visited her home, and they had a heated argument," Rao said.

The officer said the fight between the two broke out over money.

According to police, Sachin, a married man with no political connections, strangled Himani with a wired mobile phone charger, killing her on the spot.

Sachin was produced before a court in Rohtak on Monday and was sent to a three-day police remand.

"There was a monetary issue between the two, but what it was, all this has to be verified first. We cannot say this was the reason (for the murder).

"The accused has said there was a fight between the two, and during an exchange of words, he strangled her," the ADGP said.

Rao said that after strangling Himani, Sachin took her jewellery, laptop, ring and rode her scooter to Jhajjar to hide these items in his shop there.

The same night, he returned to her home, stuffed her body in a black suitcase and got into an auto-rickshaw with the bag, as well as a quilt that had blood stains on it.

He got down near Sampla bus stand to waylay the investigation, Rao said.

Once the auto-rickshaw left, he dumped the suitcase and left.

The officer said the auto-rickshaw driver had no inkling that the passenger was carrying a body in the suitcase.

"There was no talk of marriage between the two as the accused is already married -- but they were friends," he said.

Some Congress members said Himani was a dedicated party worker and also took part in the Rahul Gandhi-led Bharat Jodo Yatra. Pictures of her with Gandhi making rounds on social media bear this out.

Police said Sachin was held in Delhi based on intelligence inputs.

Earlier, Himani's family had refused to cremate her body until the culprit was arrested, with her mother, Savita, demanding capital punishment for the guilty.

"I want capital punishment for the killers of my daughter," Savita told PTI Videos in Rohtak on Monday.

Her mother also alleged that some of her colleagues envied her swift rise in the party.

"I spoke to her last on February 27. She said she would be busy with a party programme the next day, but later her phone was found switched off Till the time my daughter does not get justice, we won't cremate her," Savita said.

Himani's last rites were held Monday evening.

A Haryana Congress leader said Himani was pursuing a law degree.

Former chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda on Sunday said he spoke to the Rohtak superintendent of police regarding the investigation in the murder case.

Congress MLA from Rohtak B B Batra said Himani was a 'very good and active' worker and used to attend party programmes.

"Those who have committed the crime should be severely punished," Batra had said.
Nationalist Congress Party-Sharadchandra Pawar MLA Jitendra Awhad arrived in handcuffs at the Vidhan Bhavan complex in Mumbai on the first day of the Maharashtra legislature's budget session on Monday to highlight 'growing attack' on freedom of expression and protest the deportation of illegal immigrants from the United States.

IMAGE: NCP-SP leader Jitendra Ahwad arrives at Vidhan Bhavan in handcuffs, in Mumbai on Monday. Photograph: ANI on X

The former state minister criticised the way undocumented Indians were treated by American authorities during their deportation.

Speaking to reporters at the Vidhan Bhavan complex in south Mumbai, Awhad said, "There is a growing attack on freedom of expression in this country. Activists and individuals who speak out are being silenced by implicating them in criminal cases. Our constitutional right to express ourselves is under threat. Freedom of speech is a fundamental right, and everyone must be able to speak."

The opposition MLA criticised visa policies of the US, alleging they have destroyed the lives of many Indians.

"The restrictive visa rules are breaking families apart. Recently, we witnessed Indian immigrants being deported in large numbers crammed into planes, shackled, and treated like criminals. Many of them were forced to endure long flights without proper restroom facilities and on empty stomachs. This is an inhuman act and insulting to our people. Several families from Maharashtra were affected, and dreams of young Indians aspiring to build a future in America were shattered," he said.

Awhad warned that failing to speak up against such injustices would be detrimental to India.

"If we remain silent about the injustices faced by our fellow Indians abroad, it will set a dangerous precedent. America will continue to exploit and mistreat us. I have worn these shackles as a symbolic protest to highlight the suffering of our brothers and sisters in the US. I urge every Indian to raise their voice against these human rights violations," he asserted.

Replying to questions, Awhad said it has been proved that Walmik Karad, a close aide of state minister Dhananjay Munde, is an accused in the sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh murder case.

"Are there morals and ethics left when your close aide is cruel and inhuman?" he asked, hitting out at Munde.

Massajog village sarpanch Deshmukh was abducted and brutally killed on December 9 last year in Beed district when he tried to stop an extortion bid on an energy company.

Reacting to Awhad's act of coming to the Vidhan Bhavan complex in handcuffs, ruling NCP's state spokesperson Anand Paranjpe said it was nothing but a stunt.

NCP-SP MPs should protest in the Lok Sabha to highlight a foreign policy issue, he said.

The spokesperson wondered how can Awhad say there was no freedom of expression when he is regularly covered in the media.

"Such a stunt is unfortunate. During the protest not a single MLA of his party was present," he maintained.
The Jalgaon police on Monday arrested two more men and detained a minor boy in connection with the harassment of Union minister Raksha Khadse's daughter and some of her friends, an official said.

IMAGE: BJP MP Raksha Khadse speaks in the Lok Sabha during the Budget Session in New Delhi, February 3, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo/Sansad TV

With this, four persons have been apprehended so far in the case.

Seven persons have been named in the FIR, registered on the complaint of Khadse at Muktainagar police station in Maharashtra's Jalgaon district in connection with the incident that occurred at Sant Muktai Yatra in Kothali village there on February 28 night.

One person, Kiran Mali, was nabbed earlier, while the Jalgaon police arrested two more others -- Aniket Bhoyi and Anuj Patil -- and also apprehended a minor boy on Monday, the official from Muktainagar police station said.

Efforts were on to nab the other accused, he said.

The seven have been charged with stalking and other offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, while Information Technology Act provisions have been invoked since they tried to take pictures and videos of the girls without permission, according to the police.

During the probe, the police found the accused allegedly misbehaved with several girls and even clashed with the bodyguards accompanying them.

A 17-year-old girl had made a complaint, and the bodyguards named the seven accused.

Talking to reporters on Sunday, Bharatiya Janata Party leader Khadse said, "I was in Gujarat, so my daughter called me to ask for permission to go. I asked her to take a guard and two to three staff members along. My daughter and her friends were followed and pushed, and their photos and videos were taken. When my staff objected, the boys resorted to unruly behaviour, and a mob of 30 to 40 people gathered."

Khadse said when she returned home on Sunday morning, her daughter told her that the same group had misbehaved with her on February 24 at a public event.

"It is unfortunate. If such things happen to an MP or Union minister's daughter, imagine what common people have to go through," she said.

Khadse said some locals in Muktainagar told her that this group harassed girls on their way to school.

"I have spoken to the chief minister and the deputy superintendent of police," she said.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday assured strict action in the case.
Maharashtra minister Dhananjay Munde has filed an appeal in a sessions court in Mumbai against an interim order of a magistrate directing him to pay maintenance to a woman, who claims to be his first wife.

IMAGE: Maharashtra minister Dhananjay Munde. Photograph: @dhananjay_munde/X

The Nationalist Congress Party leader, in his appeal, reiterated he was never married to Karuna Munde, who claims to be his first wife.

He is aggrieved by the order primarily on the ground that the magistrate erroneously passed it on the basis that the appellant (Dhananjay Munde) and the respondent number 1 (woman) are married to each other and thus there is domestic relationship between them, the appeal said.

The appeal, filed through advocate Sayali Sawant, further mentioned that the magistrate "didn't apply his mind and passed an arbitrary order giving interim maintenance".

The minister claimed he had been introduced to the woman during a political party and "their frequent interactions led to a personal relationship, which they mutually decided to pursue".

Two children were born out of the relationship and Munde permitted his name and surname to be used for the official documentation of the children alone, the appeal said.

Furthermore, the respondent was fully aware of the politician's existing marriage "but voluntarily chose to engage in a relationship with him", it said.

However, there was a "drastic change" in the woman's behaviour after he won the 2019 assembly election, got inducted in the state cabinet and began residing with his wife Rajshri Munde at his official residence in Mumbai, the appeal said.

The woman and her family started "making repeated and unreasonable demands for large sums of money under various pretexts", it said.

Subsequently, the woman created multiple social media accounts under the name "Karuna Dhananjay Munde", falsely representing herself as the appellant's wife, the appeal said.

"However, the Appellant was never married to the Respondent number 1 in any manner or form and remains legally married to Rajshri Munde. At no point did he share a household with Karuna Munde," it added.

During the hearing on Friday, Karuna Munde, sought time to file her response.

She submitted before Additional Sessions Judge Shaikh Akbar Shaikh Jafar, hearing the appeal, that she will not apply for execution of the interim maintenance order till the next date.

The court then adjourned the matter to March 21 and directed her to submit a copy of reply in advance (before next date).

On February 4, the Bandra magistrate's court partly allowed Karuna's interim plea and directed Dhananjay Munde to pay Rs 1.25 lakh per month her and Rs 75,000 per month to their daughter as interim maintenance.

The woman filed a domestic violence case against the minister in 2020, and the magistrate court is yet to decide the main plea.

The magistrate, in its interim order, had prima facie held that the NCP leader meted out domestic violence against his first wife.

It had also refused to accept Dhananjay Munde's contention that he was not married to the woman.

The magistrate, based on the documents on record, noted that prima facie the couple shared domestic relations.
A lawyer representing the woman who was allegedly raped in a parked bus at Swargate depot in Pune city filed an application before a court on March 3, seeking a restraining order against public and social media statements that could lead to her character assassination.

Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: Bus rape accused Dattatray Gade in custody of Pune City police.

In a related development, the investigation into the shocking incident has been transferred to the city crime branch from the Swargate police, while the victim's statement has been recorded in court, said a senior officer.

A 26-year-old woman, who works in the health sector, was allegedly raped by a history-sheeter, Dattatray Gade (37), inside a stationary state transport bus at Swargate terminus in the early hours of February 25, according to the police.

Gade, who faces half a dozen criminal cases, was tracked down in an agriculture field near his native Gunat village under Shirur tehsil of Pune district with the help of drones and sniffer dogs at around midnight on March 27 and later placed under arrest. He is in police custody till March 12.

Asim Sarode, a lawyer representing the woman, filed a vakalatnama (a document through which a client appoints an advocate to represent them in a case) on behalf of the victim in a city court.

Sarode also filed an application before the court seeking a restraining order against public and social media statements that could lead to her character assassination.

'...the said statements are causing a serious blow to the mind of the victim. Hence, it is important in the interest of the victim that such order may kindly be passed in her favour and in her interest,' said the application.

According to the officer, the Pune police's crime branch will investigate the case.

The police officer added that a statement of the victim was recorded before the court and that the DNA samples of the accused have been sent to the forensic department as part of the probe.

According to the police, the victim was waiting for a bus to Satara, her home town, at the Swargate bus stand early on February 25 when the accused, pretending to be a bus conductor, offered to take her to the bus.

As per the complaint, the victim went with him and boarded a bus, only to find that it was empty and that no lights were on. The accused followed her, closed both the doors and allegedly raped her.

The victim, in her complaint, stated that she tried to shout but since the doors and windows were closed, her screams could not be heard outside.

Gade later escaped. The woman alighted from the bus and called her friend; the police were subsequently informed.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has dismissed speculation of a cold war with his deputy Eknath Shinde, and mocked Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, quipping he wants to compete with Salim-Javed, the legendary screenwriting duo.

IMAGE: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis with his deputy Eknath Shinde at the tea party on the eve of Maharashtra assembly session on February 2, 2025. Photograph: @mieknathshinde/X

Fadnavis was addressing a press conference on Sunday with Deputy CMs Shinde and Ajit Pawar after a cabinet meeting and customary tea party ahead of the four-week budget session of the state legislature, beginning Monday.

"There is no war. Those who know both of us will remember what we do when we are together," said Fadnavis, pointing to their meetings before Shinde's rebellion split the undivided Shiv Sena and ousted the MVA government in 2022.

While Fadnavis maintained all partners of ruling Mahayuti -- BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP -- are working unitedly, Shinde chipped in saying, "Everything is thanda thanda, cool cool.

Shinde, who heads the Shiv Sena, said the budget session will be the first House proceedings of the new government after Mahayuti's victory in the state polls last year.

"It is just that Fadnavis and I have swapped our chairs. Only Ajit Pawar's chair is fixed, said Shinde, who was the CM before the assembly elections with Fadnavis and Pawar as his deputies then.

Pawar came up with the repartee, "What can I do if you couldn't keep your chair," sending all three into peals of laughter.

Fadnavis dismissed reports claiming he had stayed decisions taken by his predecessor. "I have not stayed any decision taken by Shinde," he asserted.

The CM and his deputies also rubbished Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut's claim about Shinde meeting Union minister Amit Shah at 4 am in Pune to complain against Fadnavis.

Shinde said Shah is a leader of the BJP-led NDA. Pawar asserted it was a courtesy call at 10 am. Fadnavis said he too was present in the meeting.

Raut in his weekly column Rokhthok in the Sena-UBT mouthpiece Saamana on Sunday claimed the meeting took place at a hotel in Pune's Koregaon Park on February 22. Shinde, who is a leader of 57 MLAs, had to stay awake till 4 am to meet Shah, he claimed.

Fadnavis said Raut wants to compete with Salim-Javed, the iconic screenwriting pair of Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, while Shinde claimed there was chemical locha (imbalance) in the Sena (UBT) leader's head.

Amid disagreement over guardian ministers' posts, taking separate review meetings to separate medical cells and war rooms' for monitoring projects, there were reports of unease between Fadnavis and Shinde.

Asked about his don't take me lightly remark, Shinde said he clarified it was directed at those who took him lightly and how he taught them a lesson, in a veiled reference to Shiv Sena (UBT) head and former CM Uddhav Thackeray.

Fadnavis added, I don't take Shinde lightly, so the remark was directed at those who underestimated him.

He also lashed out at the opposition for boycotting the customary tea party on the legislature session's eve.

Referring to a letter from the opposition, Fadnavis said, It runs into nine pages. It has names of nine opposition leaders, of whom seven have signed. All issues mentioned are based on newspaper reports and if they had read the government's response to these articles, the opposition couldn't have written even a half-page letter."

They said the government should have a dialogue with the opposition. When we call them for dialogue, they boycott. None of the senior opposition leaders were present at the meeting. Instead of hum saath saath hai', it's hum aapke hai kaun' being played out in the opposition camp, he added.

The CM said five bills would be introduced during the session, which will continue till March 26, and two debates on women's empowerment and the Constitution will be held.

He said soybean and tur procurement has been done in record numbers. We have to acquire additional godowns, he added.

The CM said the government will table a balanced budget (on March 10) and ensure fiscal discipline. Flagship schemes will continue and only ineligible beneficiaries will be dropped, he said, referring to the 'Ladki Bahin' programme.

Fadnavis described the harassment of Union minister Raksha Khadse's daughter as unfortunate, stressing those involved won't be spared.

On the opposition's demand for the resignation of NCP ministers Manikrao Kokate and Dhananjay Munde, he said a decision on Kokate would be taken after court order. We have already clarified about the demand for Munde's resignation, he said.

Agriculture minister Kokate was recently convicted by a magistrate's court in a forgery case and sentenced to two years in jail. A sessions court in Nashik which has suspended his sentencing will give its decision on Kokate's plea seeking a stay on the magistrate's order on March 5.

Munde has been facing opposition heat after the arrest of his close aide Walmik Karad in an extortion case related to the murder of Beed sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh.

On Congress leader Sunil Kedar's disqualification from assembly (after conviction in a case), Fadnavis said the decision was taken after the court refused to stay his conviction. In Kokate's case, the sentence had been suspended, said the CM.
Renowned urologist George P Abraham was found dead at his farmhouse in Nedumbassery, police said on Monday. He was 75.

The senior surgeon's body was found hanging at his farmhouse, which falls under the Nedumbassery police station limits, on Sunday night.

Abraham, a distinguished expert in the surgical management of complex urological disorders, was affiliated with a leading private hospital in Kochi.

According to hospital sources, Abraham had personally conducted over 3,600 renal transplant procedures.

A note was found at the farmhouse, indicating that he was unable to concentrate on his profession due to his ill health, police sources said.

Hospital sources stated that his body had been shifted to his residence in the city after a post-mortem was performed at General Hospital, Ernakulam.

Hospital staff and his patients paid their last respects to the departed doctor when his body was brought to the hospital after the post-mortem, they said.

His mortal remains will be laid to rest at the cemetery of a church in Kochi on Tuesday, they said.

Police said that an investigation into the incident is currently underway.
The Supreme Court on Monday granted custody of a man suffering from mental illness to his mother, a US national, observing it was in his interest as he was incapable of making independent decisions.

IMAGE: The Supreme Court of India. Photograph: ANI Photo

A bench of Justices Surya Kant, Dipankar Datta and Ujjan Bhuyan considered the fact that the 22-year-old man's mental age was of a child of eight to 10 years and directed the father to not obstruct the mother-son duo from returning to the US.

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect a person's movement and muscle coordination and is caused by damage to the brain that happens during development.

The court heard the plea of the mother, Sharmila Velamur, against a Madras high court order which observed the father did not illegally detain the son in Chennai.

Velamur claimed after her divorce, even as the proceedings for mediation and guardianship of the son were pending in Idaho, the father left the US for Chennai with the son and remained untraceable.

The Madras high court had interacted with the son, posed multiple questions to him, and based on the answers, determined that he was not illegally detained.

The apex court said the son was directed to undergo medical assessment at NIMHANS, Bengaluru, and an experts' reports showed he functioned at the level of an eight to 10-year-old child and was unable to make informed decisions by himself.

His extent of overall disability, resulting from Mild Intellectual Developmental Disorder and Cerebral Palsy falls under the category of severe disability with 80 percent, the court said, referring to the reports.

The SC further observed, "Independent decisions made beyond son's cognitive capacity may not be well-informed or thoroughly considered."

An evaluation committee, the court said, constituted by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare corroborated the experts' opinions that the son did not possess the capacity to make well-informed, independent decisions on the complex subject matter of the country for his long-term residence.

The apex court said the high court decision was was simply based on a few minutes of oral interaction with (son)".

"We are constrained to hold that the high court's decision was passed in haste, without fully delving into the nuances of the matter,

the SC said.

If the high court had any doubt as to the reliability of the report and its conclusions, it should have ordered an enquiry through a reputable medical institution, it added.

Dismissing all aspects of scientific assessment in a highly specialised and niche area of medicine was misconceived and ill-founded,

the bench said.

It came on record the son completed most of his schooling in the US, where he also had access to long-term specialised welfare services and curricula and an Idaho court had appointed Velamur as his permanent guardian.

We cannot state that (son) has given up his roots in the US and has developed new roots in India, due to which he should not be displaced,

the bench said.

The order went on ,"We believe it is in the son's best interests and welfare to return to the US, where he can complete his schooling and reside with his younger brother, under the appellant's (mother's) guardianship."

The SC directed Velamur to return to the US with the son within 15 days.

The father was ordered not to cause "any impediment" to their return.
Days after a tense exchange with President Donald Trump at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reiterated his gratitude to the United States while emphasising the need for security guarantees to end the war with Russia.

IMAGE: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy listens to questions during a meeting with members of the media on the outskirts of London, on March 2, 2025. Photograph: Carlos Jasso/Reuters

In a video message posted on Monday, Zelenskyy addressed the people of Ukraine, acknowledging the unwavering support from the US and underlining the critical role of security assurances in achieving lasting peace.

"Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we've received from the United States. There has not been a day when we havent felt gratitude. Its gratitude for the preservation of our independenceour resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us and for their own security," Zelenskyy said.

The statement followed his participation in a key summit on the Russia-Ukraine war held in London, where he noted growing unity among European nations in supporting Ukraine.

"As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate," Zelenskyy stated in his post.

"Everyone is united on the main issue -- for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe -- the entire continent, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkiye."

Reiterating his stance, he stressed that security assurances are the cornerstone of achieving peace rather than prolonging conflict.

"What we need is peace, not endless war. And that's why we say security guarantees are the key to this," he concluded.

Zelenskyy's remarks come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and as Ukraine continues to rally international support to counter Russian aggression.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Sunday backtracked on his stance regarding industrial growth in Kerala, stating that the state needs more MSME start-ups, not just on paper.

IMAGE: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor. Photograph: @ShashiTharoor/X

Sharing a news report from an English daily on 'X', Tharoor expressed disappointment over the state's start-up ecosystem, saying it was not as promising as reported.

"Dismayed to see that the Kerala start-up entrepreneurship story is not what's been reported," he posted.

The news report he shared claimed that over 42,000 MSMEs had shut down in Kerala over the past nine years, resulting in the loss of employment for at least 1,03,764 workers.

"The only silver lining is that at least the GoK's claims point to the right intentions. We need more MSME start-ups, and not just on paper. Kerala must head this way!" his post added.

However, State Industries Minister P Rajeeve dismissed the news report as "baseless."

"I provided a detailed reply in the Assembly on February 10. Recently, Union Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal stated in Parliament that 1,700 MSMEs shut down in Kerala over the past four years," he said.

Rajeeve further pointed out that while 30 per cent of MSMEs in the country shut down within their first year, the figure in Kerala was only 15 per cent.

He alleged that the report was published with ulterior motives, as it did not cite the source of its figures.

Tharoor's recent remarks on Kerala's industrial growth sparked controversy within the Congress state unit.

The Congress Working Committee member ruffled feathers in the party after writing an article in an English daily praising the industrial policy of the Pinarayi Vijayan government in Kerala.

Notably, the Thiruvananthapuram MP's post came just two days after the Congress leadership held a brainstorming session with Kerala leaders at the party headquarters in New Delhi to strategise for next year's Assembly polls.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Bulgarian Foreign Minister Georg Georgiev will arrive in Azerbaijan to participate in the Baku Global Forum to be held on March 14-16, 2025 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Bulgaria's Ambassador Ruslan Stoyanov said at an event dedicated to the country's National Liberation Day, Trend reports.

Georgiev pointed out that negotiations between the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Bulgaria have been recently held on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

"During the meeting, Jeyhun Bayramov and Georgiev paid attention to issues of strategic partnership, covering the economy, trade and energy, and also discussed current challenges to regional and global security," the diplomat noted.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
The Trinamool Congress on Monday expressed dissatisfaction with the Election Commission's response to the duplication of voter card numbers, saying the poll panel must accept the error within 24 hours.

IMAGE: A Trinamool Congress delegation leaves the Election Commission of India (ECI) office, in New Delhi on March 29, 2024. Image used only for representation. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, TMC Rajya Sabha Parliamentary Party Leader Derek O'Brien said if the EC fails to do it, the party would release more documents related to the issue on Tuesday morning.

O'Brien, along with TMC Rajya Sabha deputy leader Sagarika Ghose and Lok Sabha MP Kirti Azad, displayed lists with details of voter ID cards with the same EPIC number.

"We want only residents of a state to vote in that state. Only voters of Bengal to vote in Bengal... Voters will not be allowed to vote as their votes will be cast by people with identical EPIC numbers," O'Brien said.

"These people will be sneaked in from other states to vote. This is unacceptable," he added.

Amid reports flagging issuance of identical voter card numbers to electors in two different states, the EC on Sunday said it would rectify the issue and also update its technology-driven platform.

The poll authority asserted that while the elector photo identity card (EPIC) numbers of some of the voters "may be identical", the other details, including demographic details, assembly constituency and polling booth, are different.

Terming it an "Epic Scam", O'Brien alleged that the poll panel issued the statement after the TMC announced that it was going to hold a press conference on the issue.

"Limited appreciation of the EC. I say limited because EC is admitting the error but not accepting the error," he said.

"In the next 24 hours, we humbly ask the EC to also accept the error. If not, we will share a document at 9 am on Tuesday morning," he said.

The TMC leaders also demanded an in-depth investigation into the matter.

Ghose, meanwhile, said the revelations made by TMC chairperson Mamata Banerjee have proven what so far were just allegations.

Showing an electoral list, she said, "The original voter ID card is from Bengal, and the same number is being used by another voter in another state. How can two people have the same EPIC number?"

"This is a scam, a scandal and a criminal offence. There should be a time-bound inquiry, and the masterminds of this scam should be punished. We want to appeal to (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi to stop misusing government machinery for this kind of attack on democracy. We will not allow the BJP to demolish democracy in India".

Azad also sought a thorough investigation into the issue and said it raises serious concerns over the state of democracy.

"It needs to be probed who are the officials of the Election Commission involved in this. Our leader Mamata Banerjee has warned that she can sit on a hunger strike at the EC office in Delhi," he said.

The TMC leaders shared a list containing the details of 129 voter ID cards from West Bengal and Haryana that had the same EPIC number.

According to a source, the issue will be raised in the upcoming Parliament session, and the TMC is also in touch with some other INDIA bloc parties that have raised concern over voters' lists in their states.

The EC on Sunday said identical EPIC numbers or series were allotted to some electors from different states and Union territories due to a "decentralised and manual mechanism" being followed prior to shifting of the electoral roll database of all states to the ERONET (Electoral Roll Management) platform.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. High 83F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening with more clouds for overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable.
Residents got to try out the new seats and carpeting, and debate town and school budgets, as Westminster Town Meeting returned to the Bellows Falls Union High School auditorium Saturday after a multi-year absence.
Don't miss the big stories. Like us on Facebook.

Rep. Laura Sibilia, I, represents the Windham 2 District. She can be reached at 802-384-0233 or lsibilia@leg.state.vt.us. The opinions expressed by columnists and op-ed writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The UN in Azerbaijan has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the government to support the countrys development priorities, Trend reports.

"33 years ago, on March 2, 1992, Azerbaijan joined the UN. Since then, Azerbaijan has been an active contributor to multilateral efforts. The UN in Azerbaijan remains committed to working with the government to support the countrys development priorities. Strong collaboration is key to sustainable development," the organization's post on X reads.
Kremlin-favored candidate Badra Gunba won the presidential runoff in Abkhazia, a Russian-backed breakaway region that legally is a part of Georgia, de facto election authorities said on March 2.

Gunba, 47, failed to secure an outright majority in the first round on February 15, forcing the runoff against Adgur Ardzinba, a challenger critical of some Russian-backed economic policies.

Authorities said Gunba won almost 55 percent of the vote, while Ardzinba received 41.5 percent, and 2 percent voted against all, although there was no way to confirm the authenticity of the figures.

Turnout was reported at 70 percent.

In the first round, Gunba won 46.3 percent, while Ardzinba finished with 36.9 percent.

Gunba, who previously served as vice president, took over as acting leader on November 19 after Aslan Bzhania resigned amid mass protests against an investment deal with Russia. Opponents feared the agreement threatened Abkhazia's already fragile status under Russian control.

Ardzinba, a former de facto economy minister (201520) and leader of the Abkhaz People's Movement, ran on a platform opposing the deal, though he still pledged close ties with Moscow. Russian pro-government media attempted to frame him as "pro-Turkish."

The investment agreement aimed to strengthen economic ties between the breakaway region and Russia but was met with widespread opposition.

Critics, including opposition figures and civil society groups, labeled the deal "exploitative," claiming it would give undue advantages to Russian investors while undermining Abkhazias sovereignty. The deal was later rejected by the region's de facto legislature.

Georgia's Foreign Ministry has denounced the "so-called presidential elections in Russian-occupied Abkhazia," urging international condemnation of Moscow's ongoing violations.

The EU reiterated its support for Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty in a statement following the first round, saying it does not recognize the constitutional and legal framework in which the "so-called presidential elections in Abkhazia" took place.

"The European Union recalls its firm support for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Georgia within its internationally recognized borders," a statement said.

The Georgian government on March 1 stated that the "illegally" held election "contradicts fundamental principles of international law and represents another gross violation of Georgia's sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders."

Abkhazia and South Ossetia broke away from Georgia's rule after the collapse of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s. While Russia recognized Abkhazia's independence after the 2008 Russo-Georgian War, most international community still views the region as part of Georgia.

Though the territory is politically and economically dependent on Russia, some Abkhazians have been critical of what they see as Moscow's growing influence.

Moscow welcomed Gunba's candidacy and his eventual victory.

Just days before the first round, on February 7, Russia carried out a test flight from Moscow Vnukovo Airport to the long-defunct Sukhumi Babushara Airport, bringing Gunba amid passengers and pledging to establish regular air connections later this year.

Gunba met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak. To bolster his position, Moscow announced the resumption of financial aid -- suspended since September -- and increased electricity supplies amid severe shortages.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated Gunba following the election, according to the Kremlin press service.

"I expect that the friendly, allied Russian-Abkhazian relations will continue to strengthen for the benefit of our brotherly nations," a statement read.

With reporting by Reuters




Doctors at a hospital in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar have told RFE/RL they've admitted 5,500 malnourished children in the last six months alone. That number is just a small fraction of the nearly 3 million children in Afghanistan who are suffering from malnutrition, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Iranian Vice President for Strategic Affairs Mohammad Javad Zarif has stepped down on the "advice" of the country's judiciary chief, Gholam Hossein Mohseni-Ejei.

In a post on X on March 3, Zarif said he had been "invited" by Mohseni-Ejei for a chat during which he was "advised to return to academia to prevent further pressure on the government."

A former foreign minister, Zarif's appointment in reformist President Masud Pezeshkian's government has been a source of tension for months, with his hard-line critics insisting that it violates a 2022 law on appointments in key positions.

His critics argue that Zarif's American-born sons are dual Iranian-U.S. nationals, rendering him unfit to hold such a position.

Zarif has long been a target for hard-line conservatives in Iran who claim he has too many foreign contacts and has faced suspicions because his sons -- now in their 40s -- acquired U.S. citizenship when they were born while he was a student in the United States.

Zarif had attempted to resign in August 2024 after less than two weeks in office, blaming differences with Pezeshkian over his choice of conservative cabinet members.

It later emerged that he had stepped down due to growing pressure from critics over the law.

"With Zarif's departure from the government, we can effectively consider the possibility of negotiations with America and the lifting of sanctions completely over," Ruhollah Rahimpour, a political analyst based in Turkey, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda.

Zarif's resignation followed the impeachment of Economy Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati, who was sacked by lawmakers in a 182-82 vote on March 2.

The political turmoil represented another setback for Pezeshkian, who shocked the country with his election victory last July, giving hopes to some observers of the potential for improved relations with the West.

The moves come at a time of increased tensions among the population over surging inflation and a tumbling currency in Iran - which despite its energy riches is suffering through unplanned blackouts that have hit more than half of the country.

The AFP news agency reported that, on the domestic black market, Irans currency -- the rial -- was trading at more than 920,000 to the U.S. dollar, far worse than the rate of 600,000 to the dollar in mid-2024.

The falling value of the rial in recent years has exacerbated the cost of living in Iran. A recent report by the country's statistical authority said that around one-third of Iranians earn less than $2 a day and struggle to afford basic necessities.

During Hemmati's impeachment hearing, Pezeshkian told lawmakers that he initially wanted dialogue with the United States, but changed his mind after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei opposed talks with the Donald Trump administration last month.

Hemmati backed talks with the United States while Zarif was one of the key architects of a landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers -- which Trump withdrew from in 2018 during his first term in office.

Rahimpor said Pezeshkian implicitly blaming Khamenei for Tehran not engaging with Trump did not go down well with the supreme leader, who has the final say on all state matters.

"The political establishment, namely Khamenei, set out to punish" the president, Rahimpor suggested, which meant withdrawing his support for Zarif and Hemmati's continued presence in Pezeshkian's cabinet.

Much of the economic difficulties are tied to sanctions placed on the Iranian economy by the United States, which resumed its "maximum pressure" policy as Trump returned to the White House on January 20.

UN sanctions against Tehran were lifted under the terms of a landmark 2015 nuclear deal in return for restrictions on Irans nuclear program. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) was signed by Iran with the United States, China, France, Russia, the U.K., Germany, and the European Union.

During his first term in office, however, Trump withdrew the United States from the agreement in 2018 and reimposed crippling U.S. sanctions that have roiled the economy

Zarif, a well-known and controversial figure in Iran, was Tehran's top diplomat under moderate former President Hassan Rohani and played a key role in concluding the nuclear deal.

Meanwhile, Zarif has faced international criticism for comments justifying human rights violations in Iran, the compulsory wearing of the hijab, and other nationalist remarks.

Hooman Askary of RFE/RL's Radio Farda contributed to this report
Weve been here before -- declaring NATO dead or dying. Recently, US Republican Senator Mike Lee posted on X, saying: Its time to leave NATO and the UN. Elon Musk, the worlds richest man and a close ally of US President Donald Trump, responded simply: I agree.

While officials in Brussels and elsewhere note that Musk often shares political opinions on his platform, X, without necessarily shaping US policy, some observers acknowledge his access to Trump and his informal influence in certain conservative circles in Washington, D.C.

Still, NATO officials at their Brussels headquarters have remained surprisingly calm so far. Their answer to whether the alliances demise is imminent is still a resounding No for two reasons: the gap between rhetoric and action; and the difference between NATO allies and NATO aspirants  notably Ukraine.

US Wants Greater Defense Spending

Take the first reason. As recently as last week, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to NATOs mutual defense clause, Article 5, in remarks alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

That stance was reiterated multiple times -- both publicly and privately -- by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth during a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels in February.

While he firmly insisted that European allies must significantly increase their defense spending, everyone I spoke to described the discussions as constructive.

He never left the room, listened, asked questions, and took notes -- not the behavior of an ally about to quit, one NATO ambassador told me.

And in that vein, NATO diplomats continue to navigate the constant speculation. We need to decipher what it all means, said one senior official. But weve also learned that we should ignore the noise and look at actions. Its a sort of strategic patience we must practice.

Ukraine's Uncertain NATO Path

Ukraine, however, is a different matter. The Ukraine track has changed, but not the NATO track. Theyve been pretty tough on Ukraine but remain committed to NATO, one alliance ambassador observed. The shift in tone toward Volodymyr Zelenskyy is one clear example, but Britains new role in coordinating arms deliveries to Ukraine is another indicator.

Its also evident that Ukraine wont be joining NATO anytime soon -- though, in truth, it was the Biden administration that blocked Kyivs membership at recent NATO summits, much to the quiet relief of some Western European countries. The new US administration is just more blunt about it.

What countries on NATOs eastern flank are now asking is whether American troops will remain stationed there. For now, the answer is yes, though many acknowledge concerns about an impending review of US troop levels in Europe.

But if these countries are attacked by Russia, will US forces come to their aid? The prevailing belief is that they will. but Article 5 of the NATO treaty depends on both allies and adversaries believing it will hold.

As one Eastern European official put it: Its like Schroedingers cat -- it exists in both states, alive and dead, until the box is opened. In NATOs case, until Article 5 is actually tested, we wont really know.
The United States piled more pressure on Volodymyr Zelenskyy to fall into line with Washington's push for a deal to end fighting in Ukraine, while European leaders sought to carve out a stronger role after the Ukrainian president's disastrous visit to the White House late last week.

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested his patience was running out, criticizing Zelenskyy's resistance to the prospect of a quick cease-fire in Russia's war against Ukraine without the kind of concrete security guarantees Kyiv has been seeking from the United States.

"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" Trump wrote in a social media post that linked to an Associated Press story whose headline quoted Zelenskyy as saying the end of the war in his country is "very, very far away."

"It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing," Trump wrote.

The March 3 post on Trump's Truth Social platform suggested that mending ties with the White House, as European leaders have urged Zelenskyy to do, will be a difficult task following a vocal clash in the Oval Office in which Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy on February 28.

Zelenskyy left the White House early after the heated argument in front of reporters. An agreement granting U.S. access to Ukraine's rare minerals and natural resources was left unsigned, and Trump wrote on Truth Social that Zelenskyy could "come back when he is ready for Peace."

Since the debacle, which added to questions about the future of U.S. military and financial aid to Ukraine to support its defense against the Russian invasion, U.S. officials have urged Zelenskyy to apologize and echoed Trump's suggestion that he must show that he is ready for peace.

"What we need to hear from President Zelenskyy is that he has regret for what happened, he's ready to sign this minerals deal, and that he's ready to engage in peace talks," White House national-security adviser Mike Waltz told Fox News on March 3.

Zelenskyy "should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin," Trump told reporters at the White House later in the day.

Asked if the minerals deal was dead, Trump said, "No, I don't think so." Asked about reports that he was considering halting military aid to Ukraine, he said, ""I haven't even talked about that right now. I mean, right now, we'll see what happens. A lot of things are happening right now as we speak."

The Oval Office altercation has reverberated across the globe and particularly in Europe, throwing the chances of securing a cease-fire or peace deal that would not leave Kyiv and the rest of the continent vulnerable to renewed Russian aggression deeper into doubt.

Leaders across Europe moved to take more control of potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia and ensure security across the continent after the recent flurry of diplomacy appeared to collapse with the rupture of relations between Trump and Zelenskyy.

A spokesman for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on March 3 that there were a "number of options on the table" for a cease-fire agreement to at least temporarily halt fighting sparked by Russia's full-scale invasion of its neighbor more than three years ago.

The statement came after French President Emmanuel Macron told the newspaper Le Figaro that he thought a one-month truce on air, sea, and energy infrastructure would give allies time to assess Russian President Vladimir Putin's commitment to a full and lasting cease-fire.

Meanwhile, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on March 3 that she would inform member states about a "rearm Europe plan" as European governments scramble to mitigate their growing differences with the United States over the war in Ukraine.

"We need a massive surge in defense, without any question. We want lasting peace, but lasting peace can only be built on strength, and strength begins with strengthening ourselves," von der Leyen said.

More than a dozen leaders from around Europe, Canada, Turkey, and NATO met for a summit in London on March 2 to round off a busy diplomatic week.

Absent from the conference was any representative of the United States, although Starmer said before the summit began that the United Kingdom, France, and Ukraine and possibly one or two others would be working on a peace plan they would discuss with Washington.

The sight of Zelenskyy and Trump -- who said the Ukrainian leader was being "disrespectful" to the United States and putting everyone at risk of causing World War III -- arguing in front of live TV cameras over Russia's three-year full-scale invasion of the country has clearly shocked Europe's leaders.

'Manufactured Escalation,' Says Germany's Merz

In some of the strongest European comments yet on the White House standoff, Germany's likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, referred to what he called "manufactured escalation" at the meeting, a thinly veiled criticism of Trump and his administration.

"It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelenskyy, but obviously a manufactured escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office," Merz told a news conference in Hamburg on March 3, adding that Europe "must now show that we are in a position to act independently."

Despite intense and ongoing discussions on boosting Europe's own defense capacities, and alarm over warming rhetoric between Moscow and Washington, European leaders say engaging the new U.S. administration is a priority as the United States -- a major contributor of military aid to Ukraine -- must be part of the negotiations.

Merz said he would "advocate doing everything to keep the Americans in Europe."

Both Starmer and Macron pleaded with Trump not to abandon Ukraine and to take a strong line on Russia during separate visits to the White House last week, while crediting the U.S. president's plans for a quick peace to end the war.

Those meetings were before Zelenskyy's Washington debacle, which ended in him returning home early without having signed a deal on critical minerals with the United States that Trump had billed as a cornerstone of future cooperation.

Trump said after the failed talks that Zelenskyy "is not ready for Peace if America is involved" and that "he can come back when he is ready for Peace.

Polish Cold War hero Lech Walesa and a group of former Polish political prisoners jumped in to defend Zelenskyy in a letter to Trump on March 3 that expressed "horror" at how the meeting devolved.

"We watched your conversation with the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskiy with horror and distaste," the letter said.



"We consider your expectations regarding showing respect and gratitude for the material assistance provided by the United States to Ukraine in its fight with Russia to be offensive...Gratitude is due to the heroic Ukrainian soldiers who shed blood in defense of the values of the free world."

Will European Aid Be Enough For Ukraine?

Zelenskyy enjoyed a far warmer welcome in London at the weekend than in Washington, agreeing with Starmer a 2.26 billion pound ($2.84 billion) British loan for Ukraine that Zelenskyy said will be repaid using revenues from frozen Russian assets.

But can European assistance ever be enough to compensate for a potential financing shortfall from the United States -- the single biggest contributor of military aid to Ukraine -- now that relations between Washington and Kyiv are at their lowest point in the past decade?

Youre either going to make a deal or were out, Trump told Zelenskyy during the testy Oval Office exchange.

Zelenskyy, for his part, characterized Putin as a killer who could not be trusted to maintain a cease-fire without firm security guarantees from the United States, which Washington is yet to provide.

Zelenskyy has said he still believes the bilateral relationship can be salvaged, despite the standoff appearing to scupper for the moment a framework deal between Kyiv and Washington for Ukraine's critical minerals and post-war reconstruction.

"Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we have received from the United States," the Ukrainian president said in his nightly video address on March 2.

"There hasn't been a single day when we haven't felt grateful. Because this is gratitude for the preservation of our independence: Our resilience in Ukraine is built upon what our partners do for us and for their own security," he added.

"There will be diplomacy for peace. And for the sake of all of us standing together -- Ukraine, the whole of Europe, and most necessarily America."

But it is still unclear what that will look like, and the rhetorical divide across what Trump calls "a big, beautiful ocean" is only serving to cloud the picture.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on March 3 that Paris viewed a one-month cease-fire "to determine whether Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith as a potential starting point.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Jeyhun Bayramov, Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, met Monday with Gwi-Yeop Son, United Nations Development Coordination Offices Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia on the sidelines of the latters visit to the country, Trend reports, citing the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

During the meeting, the parties exchanged views on the current state and future prospects of Azerbaijan-UN relations, various aspects of cooperation in the implementation of the UNs 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as on further improvement of this cooperation, in alignment with the new realities on the ground and Azerbaijan's national development priorities.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, recalling that 2 March 2025 marked the 33rd anniversary of Azerbaijan's accession to the UN, expressed his satisfaction with cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UN agencies that has been carried out effectively and constructively over the past 33 years.

It was emphasized that the first years of Azerbaijans independence have been accompanied by serious economic and social challenges related to the occupation of its territories and the plight of 1 million refugees and IDPs, when representation of a number of UN agencies on the ground has been instrumental in institutional development and capacity building in Azerbaijan.

At the same time, it was especially noted that the liberation of Azerbaijans territories from the occupation and the socio-economic progress achieved by the Republic of Azerbaijan in recent years has enabled the country to rely on its own resources and capacity in the implementation of social projects, as well as to carry out several donor support to many countries through a number of UN agencies.

In this regard, it was emphasized that the Republic of Azerbaijan revised its cooperation priorities with the UN in accordance with emerging realities on the ground and utilizing UN resources more efficiently. To that end, the FM brought to the attention of the counterpart that, the existing cooperation modalities with some UN institutions will be transformed to project-based cooperation mechanism based on national priorities.

Against the backdrop of the transformation of Azerbaijan from a state receiving assistance to a country contributing to the global agenda, it was emphasized that in accordance with the demands of the time, cooperation with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), the UN Environment Programme, the Secretariat of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and other relevant UN agencies is a priority, and further cooperation with some other UN agencies will continue on the basis of this model, working directly with their headquarters.

Gwi-Yeop Son congratulated Azerbaijan on the successful organization of COP29 and the historical outcomes achieved, noting that the cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UN system in this regard is commendable.

Gwi-Yeop Son expressed appreciation for the strong cooperation and partnership with the Government to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in Azerbaijan. She noted that the United Nations is ready to continue partnership and cooperation with the Government of Azerbaijan to support the national development priorities and the SDGs.
All Roscommon motorists looking to renew their motor insurance, or take out a new motor insurance policy must provide their driver number from the end of the month onwards, the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) has warned.

From 31st March 2025 it will be an offence for any insurance provider or broker to issue a motor insurance policy where the driver number has not been supplied. This means that anyone in Roscommon who does not provide the driver numbers for all named drivers on their respective policy will not be legally able to receive motor insurance.

Every motorist has their own unique Driver Number which stays with them for life, regardless of changes to their vehicle, insurance policy and even when they renew their drivers licence. It is listed under section 4(d) of every persons drivers licence.

This road safety measure was included in the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 and is aimed at further enhancing road safety. The driver number details for Roscommon and the rest of the country will be added to the Irish Motor Insurance Database (IMID), the tool already used by the Gardai to detect and apprehend uninsured drivers.

Already An Garda Siochana receive insurance details for more than 3 million vehicles and 5 million drivers which are updated on a daily basis. The addition of the Driver Number will act as a unique identifier for each specific driver. This will provide An Garda Siochana with a more comprehensive insight into any offences individuals may have committed and make it even more difficult for drivers who act illegally on Irish roads to evade detection.

The addition of the Driver Number will represent the final data phase of the Irish Motor Insurance Database project, a joint initiative between the Department of Transport, An Garda Siochana, Insurance Ireland, the MIBI and insurance providers. The project was established to help clamp down on the high levels of uninsured driving in the State, with figures from the MIBI showing there were approximately 188,000 uninsured private vehicles on Irish roads in 2022, representing one in every 12 private vehicles.

The MIBI is a not for profit organisation that was established to compensate the victims of road traffic accidents caused by uninsured and unidentified vehicles.

From 31st March onwards this legislative requirement will be a necessity for anyone in Roscommon who is looking to renew their motor insurance or to take out a new policy, said David Fitzgerald, CEO of the MIBI. For most Roscommon people this will just mean they will have to take a quick look at their drivers licence and provide the correct number, listed under point 4(d) on their licence as part of their renewal process. If they have additional drivers listed on their policy, then the driver numbers for those individuals will also have to be provided.

This is an important measure that will help bring more safety to Irish roads and greater accountability to anyone who breaks the law. Every licensed driver has their own unique driver number which stays with them regardless of the vehicle they are using. This new legal requirement provides An Garda Siochana with a more comprehensive insight into any offences a driver may have committed, making it even more difficult for drivers who act illegally on Irish roads to evade detection.

When combined with the impact the database is already making, allowing the Gardai to identify uninsured drivers in seconds, this will further enhance the policing of Irish roads. We all want safer roads in Roscommon and across this country. This adds another layer of effectiveness to IMID, aiding the battle against illegal driving activity, Mr Fitzgerald concluded.

Further information on Driver Numbers and the new requirements are available here.
A hospitality group is urging companies in Roscommon to join them in a huge fundraising drive for Hospices nationwide after the phenomenal hospice care a colleagues father received.

Organisers Together for Hospice hope it will spark a nationwide workplace charity initiative involving more than 100 companies collectively raising funds in April across Ireland.

Every cent raised by companies and staff in County Roscommon will be directed to the Mayo Roscommon Hospice Foundation.

Sean Grahams dad, Brendan, 87, passed away under the care of staff at St Francis Hospice in Dublins Blanchardstown.

Now Seans employers, hospitality multinational Prem Group, is backing the first ever Your Finest Hour for Hospice drive, asking employees to donate an hour of their salary in return for an hour of downtime from employers.

Unless people witness it, they dont know how unbelievable Hospice is, said Sean, Chief Information Officer with the Dublin-based group - which owns, leases and manages 32 properties across Europe.

It is a phenomenal organisation, none of the care is means tested, theres no cost, they simply take the pressure off grieving families. The father-of-two from Clane, Co Kildare, told how former Guinness worker Brendan, from Dublins Ashtown, entered St Francis in 2021 after a cancer diagnosis.

He died there in September of that year.

My last words to dad were thank you so much for everything you ever did for us I feel tremendously lucky to have had that experience.

The dignity that they showed to a man in his final hours; the three words I constantly use in relation to Hospice are love, dignity and respect.

Nothing was too much and no detail was overlooked. Prem Group, which controls 10 properties in Ireland, is the first major firm to row in behind the Your Finest Hour for Hospice campaign, spurred on by data which shows that Hospices nationwide need to raise around 20million annually to continue operating.

With the population over 65 set to triple over the next 30 years, demand for services continues to grow and in 2023 alone, hospice and specialist palliative homecare providers cared for over 14,000 patients and made over 87,000 homecare visits.

In return for employees donating an hour of their salary in April, employers are asked to reward them by treating staff to an office takeaway, giving them a wellbeing hour  or simply an hour off work.

Companies and employees, either in partnership or separately, are asked to register to support the initiative at: www.finesthour.ie.

Registered firms will be given a digital information pack and every cent raised in local firms, goes to local Hospices.

I would encourage as many companies and individuals as possible to jump on board, said Sean.

We take so much for granted in life, the Hospice teams around Ireland are a gift in peoples final hours.
Ryan Casey, 4th year student at Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, County Roscommon, is taking part in the BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamp, taking place from today until Thursday at Nova UCD.

Ryans project, titled Apollo- A novel network anomaly detection system using AI won the first intermediate individual award in the technology category at this years BTYSTE.

Now in its 16th year, the Bootcamp was set up by BT Ireland, under its custodianship of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (YSTE) in 2010, to support BTYSTE finalists with developing their project ideas into commercial enterprises under the guidance of BTYSTE alumni, BT Ireland mentors and expert judges.

This year, BT Ireland celebrated 25 years as organiser of the YSTE and first introduced the bootcamp as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance and evolve the exhibition under its custodianship. In the last sixteen years, the Bootcamp has provided almost 500 students with skills to turn their project ideas into commercial enterprises.

This year, thirty students representing 12 counties from across the island of Ireland are participating in the Bootcamp. The students will take part in a four-day programme that will include workshops on business development, marketing and commercialisation, as well as meet BTYSTE alumni who themselves have launched successful enterprises. On the final day, the students will pitch their project to an expert panel of judges.

Judges this year include Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland, Dr Tony Scott, co-founder of the BTYSTE, Anne-Marie Turley, Head of Fintech, Finance & Cybersecurity at Enterprise Ireland, and Brian ODonovan, Work and Technology Correspondent at RTE.

Shay Walsh, Managing Director of BT Ireland, said, We are pleased to welcome the participating students to the 2025 BT Young Scientist Business Bootcamp at Nova UCD, our event partner. The Bootcamp which we developed in 2010, has been a highlight for BT Ireland for years, and its amazing to see thirty of the countrys brightest young minds develop their ideas with STEM experts.

While this is an exciting event for us, it also marks the final Bootcamp we will deliver. It has been an honour to support 500 young people over the years in developing their business skills, with many making significant impacts in STEM and business. Id like to thank my colleagues and the Nova UCD team for their support, and I hope all participants will have an unforgettable week.

Dr Tony Scott, co-founder of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition, said I am delighted to represent the Board of the Young Scientist at Nova UCD to welcome thirty of the BTYSTE finalists to the 16th BT Young Scientist Bootcamp this week. The level of talent that we see at Bootcamp every year is fantastic, and I have no doubt that the 2025 participants will go on to make a big impact on their futures.

The Bootcamp, originally developed by BT Ireland, is just one initiative that was established under the organisations custodianship of the exhibition in the last 25 years. While BT Irelands journey with the YSTE will conclude this week, the organisations legacy with the exhibition will forever endure.

Since the Bootcamp began, several participants have gone on to create successful enterprises, including Protex AI, betterexaminations.ie, and Evervault.
I Am Still Here OTT Release: When and Where to Watch the Film Online?

Movie lovers across the globe are eagerly anticipating its release on OTT platforms.

I Am Still Here OTT Release: When and Where to Watch the Film Online?

"I Am Still Here" won the Best International Feature Film award at the 2025 Oscars and is making headlines worldwide. Movie lovers across the globe are eagerly anticipating its release on OTT platforms. Starring Fernanda Torres and Fernanda Montenegro, the film has been receiving widespread acclaim.

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Brazil, 1971  As the military dictatorship tightens its grip, Eunice Paiva, a mother of five, is forced to rebuild her life after her family becomes a victim of the regimes violent and arbitrary actions.

Based on Marcelo Rubens Paivas biographical book, the film brings to light a true story that played a crucial role in uncovering a significant yet hidden chapter of Brazils history.

About Film:

"I'm Still Here" is a Brazilian political biographical drama. The film is directed by Walter Salles and written by Murilo Hauser and Heitor Lorega, and produced by Maria Carlota Bruno, Rodrigo Teixeira, and Martine de Clermont-Tonnerre.

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I Am Still Here Movie OTT Platform Release Date Update:

While, movie lovers across the globe are eagerly anticipating its release on OTT platforms, the makers have not yet confirmed the platform's name.

(For More News Apart I Am Still Here OTT Release: When and Where to Watch the Film Online? stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
FIR Registered Against Attackers in Rishikesh Sikh Businessmen Mob Assault: BJP Spokesperson

The incident, which sparked outrage, was promptly addressed after being brought to the attention of Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami.

Rishikesh Sikh Mob Attack Latest News Today FIR Registered in Uttarakhand latest news: Rishikesh Sikh Mob Attack Latest News Today: An FIR has been registered against those involved in the recent mob attack on Sikh businessmen in Rishikesh, BJP spokesperson Pritpal Singh Baliawal confirmed.

The incident, which sparked outrage, was promptly addressed after being brought to the attention of Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

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Baliawal shared the update on social media, emphasizing the swift response of the BJP-led government. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he stated, We brought the #Rishikesh Vandalism incident to the notice of CM Uttarakhand, and he instantly took action. No delays, no excuses  JUSTICE must prevail!

He further mentioned that after discussions with the Chief Ministers Office (CMO), authorities confirmed that an FIR had been filed and the culprits would be arrested soon.

Highlighting the BJPs commitment to maintaining law and order, Baliawal stated, Whenever any incident happens against anyone, we ensure immediate action without delay. This is the difference between BJP governance and others  law and order come first, not politics!

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He also expressed gratitude to CM Pushkar Singh Dhami for ensuring that such incidents are not tolerated under the BJP government.

The attack on Sikh businessmen in Rishikesh had raised concerns about security and communal harmony. With an FIR now in place and arrests expected soon, the focus shifts to ensuring justice for the victims and maintaining peace in the region.

(For More News Apart From Rishikesh Sikh Mob Attack Latest News Today FIR Registered in Uttarakhand stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
SC Grants Conditional Approval for Ranveer Allahbadia to Resume Podcast

According to an official, Allahbadia admitted that his comments were inappropriate and acknowledged his mistake.

Chandigarh: The Supreme Court on Monday granted YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia permission to resume uploading his podcasts and shows on social media, albeit with certain conditions. The court had previously directed him to halt his podcast following backlash over controversial remarks he made on Samay Rainas YouTube show.

Courts Consideration

The decision came after Allahbadia filed a petition stating that his podcast serves as his primary source of livelihood. The Supreme Court acknowledged his plea while imposing restrictions to ensure compliance with content guidelines.

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Controversy and Legal Action

The controversy erupted following Allahbadias remarks on the YouTube show Indias Got Latent, which sparked outrage and led to multiple FIRs being filed against him. The Maharashtra Cyber and Mumbai Police are currently investigating his statements made during comedian Samay Rainas show.

On Monday, both Allahbadia and fellow YouTuber Ashish Chanchlani appeared separately before the Maharashtra Cyber unit to provide their statements in an ongoing case related to obscenity charges.

Admission and Apology

According to an official, Allahbadia admitted that his comments were inappropriate and acknowledged his mistake. He conceded that his choice of words during the show was inappropriate and that he is facing criticism for them.

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Allahbadia also clarified that his participation in the show was solely due to his friendship with Samay Raina and stated that he did not receive any compensation for his appearance.

This development marks a significant turn in the ongoing investigation, as authorities continue to examine the case while the Supreme Court's conditions ensure responsible content dissemination in the future.
Sikh Businessman attacked in Rishikesh: Police arrest 3 suspects and search for more

The police have also promised to keep a close watch on the matter so that nothing like this can happen in the future

Sikh Businessman attacked in Rishikesh: Police arrest 3 suspects and search for more latest news: Ranjit Singh registered a complaint at the Rishikesh police station that some people destroy a religious place and uttered abusive remarks. The police arrested Raju and two others on the basis of his complaint, and now they are hunting for three other suspects.

The police have also promised to keep a close watch on the matter so that nothing like this can happen in the future. In a recent attack in Rishikesh, two Sikh businessmen were attacked by a mob, and their showroom was vandalized.

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ALSO READ: Giani Raghbir Singh condemns attack on Sikh businessmen in Rishikesh

The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has strongly condemned the attack and called for swift action from the Chief Minister and the police.

Viral videos depict one of the attackers stripping the turban of a Sikh businessman, which is extremely offensive and derogatory to religious sentiments. The SGPC has asked the police to file charges of hurting religious sentiments in this case.

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(For More News Apart Sikh Businessman attacked in Rishikesh: Police arrest 3 suspects and search for more stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Collective economic projects in villages embody democracy in rural China

16:53, March 03, 2025 By Huang Lanlan, Leng Shumei ( Global Times

Editor's Note:

China's national "two sessions," the annual meetings of China's top legislature, the National People's Congress (NPC), and the top political advisory body, the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), are set to convene in Beijing this week. As a key political event shaping the country's policy direction, the upcoming annual sessions provide a prime opportunity for observers to gain a unique vantage point to witness the country's democracy in action.

Democracy is a common value for all humanity and an important principle that the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the Chinese people steadfastly uphold. In a country with about one-fifth of the world's population, people are actively participating in democratic practices, ranging from state legislation to local matters.

In China, scenarios of democracy manifest in diverse ways. However, some Western media outlets have misunderstood Chinese democracy, by making absurd claims while disregarding facts. For example, some have said that only "one person, one vote" constitutes democracy, while some have accused Chinese democracy of lacking freedom of speech and being low in participation.

But is this really the case? To dispel this misinformation or disinformation by some Western media outlets with ulterior motives, the Global Times is launching a series of stories to share with international readers what Chinese democracy is and why such claims are wrong. This is the first installment.

When village officials approached He Zhigang's home and inquired whether he would consider renting out a 1-mu plot of land (666.7 square meters) right in front of his house, he barely paused before nodding in agreement.

At the time, Shiying village in East China's Zhejiang Province was developing rural tourism. To attract more visitors, the village officials and local collective economic organizations planned to rent some of the empty spaces in front of villagers' homes to use as parking lots for tourists. They went door to door to seek opinions, and offered willing villagers an annual rent of 1,200 yuan ($165) per mu.

"They really respected our opinions and didn't force anyone to make a decision," He recalled.

In many villages like Shiying across China, the rural collective economy drives collective development through the integrated use of village members' resources, democratic management, cooperative operations, and equitable distribution. This mechanism vividly illustrates China's people-centered democracy.

However, some Western media outlets have questioned whether China's democracy is real as they limit the definition of democracy to "one person, one vote." To refute this simple definition by such media outlets, the prosperous fruits yielded from the collective economy in rural China can serve as a strong testimony, demonstrating that democracy is not what is narrowly defined as "one man, one vote," but a whole system of political structures to ensure the people's status as the true masters of their own affairs and the ultimate beneficiaries of development.

"Democracy primarily addresses how public opinion is realized in a country's political process. In this sense, democracy is not an ornament or mere decoration; it is meant to address the issues that people need to resolve. This is one of the significant characteristics that make our whole-process people's democracy the most genuine," said Sang Yucheng, a professor at the School of International Relations, Fudan University.

Strong sense of belonging

Shiying village, nestled among lush mountains and clear waters, boasts stunning natural beauty and is an ideal location for eco-tourism. It is home to over 1,600 residents.

He Liyan was elected as Shiying village's Party chief in 2021. She and the other village officials all believed that, for the relatively underdeveloped village of Shiying, making full use of its natural resources to develop rural tourism was the best way to generate income. The collective economy, which gathers the resources of everyone in the village and utilizes them by the unified planning of the whole village, was the most suitable approach for the local development of tourism. Therefore, that year, they decided to start collective economic projects in tourism, such as constructing water parks and sites for rafting and off-road vehicles.

A village's collective economy concerns all residents, and decisions cannot be made by someone alone. In the following months, He Liyan and her colleagues visited the homes of all villagers to gather opinions and held several meetings to collect thoughts on developing local tourism.

Villager He Zhigang recalled that, at the time, officials of Shiying village regularly visited his home to explain development plans and seek his feedback.

"They explained to me in detail what had been done, and what was planned next," He Zhigang told the Global Times.

Sometimes, He Liyan encountered villagers, especially seniors, who held different opinions. She gave an example of a time when the village needed to acquire land from some residents for road construction. "For those who were unhappy with it, my colleagues and I would carefully explain the benefits that the road would bring to them and the entire village, as well as the direct compensation they would receive from the land acquisition," she said, stressing that the road construction would not begin without obtaining everyone's consent. The road is currently under construction after receiving all necessary approvals.

Now Shiying's tourism is growing fast after years of development and construction. In 2024, the village's collective economic operating income reached 6.78 million yuan, a double-digit growth from a decade ago.

In addition to getting dividends, villagers can earn rental income and voluntarily apply for paid jobs under the village's collective economic projects, ranging from cleaning to project management.

He Zhigang now works at one of the village's collective economic projects named "Dream Land," a tourism complex that contains an amusement park, camping sites, and guesthouses.

"I feel a strong sense of belonging and ownership, as I also own a part of this 'Dream Land,'" he told the Global Times. "So does everyone in our village."

Transparent, accessible to all villagers

Villagers of Danitang in Central China's Hunan Province read documents explaining policies on the village's collective economic projects. (Photo/Courtesy of Xie Jiarong)

Danitang village, literally meaning "a village of big mud pits," is a small agricultural village in Central China's Hunan Province. When Xie Jiarong became the Party chief of the village in 2020, Danitang had almost no collective economic projects. At the time, local villagers either sought employment outside the village or stayed to cultivate their small plots of land, with an income that was far from ideal.

Xie, who had spent 10 years working in rural planning before becoming the village's Party chief, decided to harness the wisdom of the collective economy to manage the village's agricultural resources more effectively.

"We encouraged villagers to lease their previously scattered or even idle farmland to the village collective economic organization, establishing a dedicated project to uniformly cultivate rice and rapeseed, with the harvested crops being sold collectively to partner enterprises," Xie explained.

This ambitious plan began in 2021. The very first step, as Xie noted, was to rent farmland from the villagers. This was a democratic process, where everyone's opinions were carefully considered.

"We organized numerous information-sharing sessions, and called those working away from home to explain the concept of collective economy to every villager, assuring them that this project would bring tangible benefits," Xie told the Global Times.

Villager Zhu Xueping was cheerful about this project. Prior to that, Zhu, in his 60s, was no longer able to engage in high-intensity farming. He had to lease his farmland to other individuals, which not only yielded no rental income but also required him to pay a "land maintenance fee" to the lessees.

"Since I leased my land to the village collective economic project for 260 yuan per mu, I can earn nearly 2,000 yuan a year without doing anything. This is great," Zhu told the Global Times.

Nonetheless, some villagers preferred to farm their own land. Xie did not refuse their request. "With their permission, we designated an area nearly equal in size to their original farmland for them to cultivate independently," Xie said. "In this way, we could ensure large-scale mechanized farming for our village collective economic project, while also meeting the needs of the villagers who wish to farm on their own."

In his opinion, village collective economic projects should be developed in a democratic, open, and considerate manner, benefiting all villagers.

Through joint efforts, the collective economic income of Danitang village reached 900,000 yuan in 2023. A small portion of this money was used to pay rent for the villagers' farmland and agricultural machinery, as well as wages for villagers working on the project. Another significant portion was allocated to further improve local agricultural irrigation facilities. "Throughout this process, every financial record and plan was completely open, transparent, and accessible to all villagers," Xie said.

A broad consensus

It is important to note that China's democratic system has both a complete institutional procedure and extensive participatory practices, Sang told the Global Times.

According to Sang, the concept of whole-process people's democracy has gradually formed a broad consensus in China, and efforts are being made to promote its practical and effective application at all levels, and the rural collective economy is one representative.

A law to promote the development of rural collective economic organizations and safeguard the interests of farmers will take effect in China on May 1, 2025. According to the law, the government will support the development of these organizations through fiscal, tax, financial, land, talent, and industrial policies, to strengthen the new rural collective economy, Xinhua reported.

"China's democratic system is not static. Continuous innovations in the forms and channels of democracy have broadened participation. The practice of democracy has become an integral part of daily life and work. This is a source of the strong vitality of Chinese democracy," read a Xinhua article.

The principles of the so-called one person, one vote and party competition underlying the Western electoral system have often been touted as the sole criterion for democracy, despite the fact that a few powerful interest groups often control the political system, and money plays a pivotal role in Western politics, according to the Xinhua article.

Xie also refuted claims by some Western media outlets that "only Western-style electoral politics represent democracy." This grassroots Party chief, who was elected by the local villagers, believes that democracy is reflected in all aspects of rural life in China, and the village collective economy is a vivid embodiment of this.

"I spend every day with the villagers, and we fully trust and respect each other," Xie told the Global Times.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Zhong Wenxing)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Following the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's instructions as part of the country's large-scale return to its liberated territories, the first group of former displaced persons has been relocated to the restored Hasanriz village in Aghdara district, Trend reports.

Restored Hasanriz village is now prepared to welcome its residents, with the first families to resettle being those who had been temporarily accommodated in hostels, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings across the country.

Initially, 25 families, comprising 91 individuals, were relocated to the village. The returning residents expressed their gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive state support.

The families thanked the courageous Azerbaijani army and the heroic soldiers and officers who liberated their homeland from occupation. In honoring the martyrs who sacrificed their lives, the returnees sent their deepest respects and wished strength and patience to their families.

To date, around 40,000 people are residing in the Karabakh and East Zangezur regions, alongside those who were resettled, working on various ongoing projects and fulfilling official duties in local branches of state institutions. These individuals are contributing to the restoration of health, education, culture, tourism, industry, and energy sectors.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
The indian army has ended up with the search and rescue operation at chamoli district

The Indian Army has ended up with the search and rescue operation at the Mana area of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand Chamoli Avalanche Rescue Operation Latest News Today: On Sunday, The Indian Army has ended up with the search and rescue operation at the Mana area of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand. These operations were aimed at rescuing Border Roads Organisation (BRO) staff who were stranded after an avalanche on February 28.

The Indian Army said that of the 54 BRO workers trapped, 46 were rescued and are undergoing medical care. Unfortunately, 8 people lost their lives in this mishap. The Army conveyed sincere condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and paid tribute to the bravery of all BRO staff involved in the development of remote parts of the country.

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Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami sent his deepest condolences to the families of the dead workers and wished the injured ones a speedy recovery. Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari said that the operation was carried out successfully with immense help from both the state and central governments.

The rescue personnel from Army, ITBP, Air Force, NDRF, and SDRF worked round the clock during the last two days. Despite difficult terrain, 46 workers were rescued by them. High-tech gadgets like victim-locating and thermal imaging cameras and a Drone-Based Intelligent Buried Object Detection System came in handy in the rescue operation.

The 8 staff members who perished have created a gap that can never be replaced. The bodies were air-lifted to Joshimath military hospital and will be released to their relatives once formalities are done legally.

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The Indian Army's efforts and good weather coupled with the state-of-the-art technology made it possible to wind up this rescue operation, closing the chapter of the Mana Village Rescue Operation. The courage and resilience of everyone involved, right from the BRO personnel, shall be remembered and celebrated.

(For More News Apart From The indian army has ended up with the search and rescue operation at chamoli district stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Giani Raghbir Singh has pronounced attack on a Sikh businessman in Rishikesh

He described the attackwhere the victim was assaulted physically and his turban and Kes (unshorn hair) were offended

Giani Raghbir Singh on Rishikesh Sikh mob lynching attack latest news: Sri Akal Takht Sahib Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh has pronounced in clear-cut terms that the communal group's attack on a Sikh businessman in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand is an attack on the fundamental rights of different religions in the country.

In a press release issued from the Secretariat of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh emphasized that it is the first duty of any democratic government to provide protection to human rights and freedoms of citizens of all faiths. He severely criticized the act and declared that it is a shame on the democratic atmosphere of the country that a crowd of people treated the turban and Kes of a Sikh businessman in this way over a frivolous issue.

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The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also has taken this issue seriously and in a written letter to the Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami requested stern action against the culprits. The SGPC Chief Secretary Kulwant Singh Mannan highlighted that the mob is evidently targeting Sikh traders in videos being circulated on social media.

The incident evoked anger with demands for immediate action from the authorities. Mannan pointed out that a turban of one of the victims was pushed off by one of the attackers, who is also believed to have committed a sacrilege, and desecrated his Kes. He asked for the authorities to make charges under hurt religious sentiments additional in the case against the perpetrators.

The police in the state have been faulted for their failure to act during the incident, with reports that they stood by as mere spectators as the situation spiraled out of control. This has created serious questions regarding law and order in Uttarakhand, with many likening the state's worsening security situation to that of Uttar Pradesh, where mob violence is never checked.

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The SGPC threatened that inaction and delay in taking action will be detrimental to the minority Sikh community in Uttarakhand.

(For More News Apart Giani Raghbir Singh has pronounced attack on a Sikh businessman in Rishikesh stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Earthquake Today: Tremors felt in Punjab's Amritsar

People felt the tremors and rushed out of the buildings.

Punjab Earthquake Today: In a major development, Punjab witnessed earthquake tremors in Amritsar on Monday.

(For more latest news apart from Punjab and Amritsar Earthquake Today, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
Ukraine is all "ready to sign" a minerals agreement with United States

In spite of the tension, global leaders have been equally supportive of Zelenskyy and pledged to do more to assist Ukraine.

Ukraine is all "ready to sign" a minerals agreement with United States latest news: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukranian President has stated that Ukraine is all "ready to sign" a minerals agreement with United States, and he described it as the first step towards security guarantee.

On his X post, he reiterated the necessity for more than a ceasefire, adding, "A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. We've been fighting for 3 years, and Ukrainian people need to know that America is on our side".

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This was after a confrontational meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House saw Zelenskyy cut his visit to Washington short.

I had a productive meeting with the President of the Council of Ministers of Italy @GiorgiaMeloni to develop a joint action plan for ending the war with a just and lasting peace.



No one other than Putin is interested in the continuation and quick return of the war. Therefore, it pic.twitter.com/3xCF7qTiCv Advertisement March 2, 2025

In spite of the tension, global leaders have been equally supportive of Zelenskyy and pledged to do more to assist Ukraine.

Zelenskyy had met earlier in the day with Britain's King Charles III at Sandringham House. He thanked his gratitude in an X post, saying, "I am grateful to His Majesty King Charles III for the audience".

He also had a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to formulate an action plan together for bringing an end to the war through a just and lasting peace. Zelenskyy has labelled the encounter "productive" and put an emphasis on holding cohesion united in favour of Ukraine while deepening Ukraine's standing under concerted action from its European and American partners.

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Zelenskyy emphasized that nobody except Putin wants the war to continue and that Ukraine requires peace supported by strong security guarantees. He thanked Italy for its ongoing support and cooperation in making peace closer to Ukraine.

(For More News Apart Ukraine is all "ready to sign" a minerals agreement with United States stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
March 3, 2025

A roundup of local and international news.

Newsflash

Newsroom, 03.03.2025, 13:55

Ukraine. Romanias interim president Ilie Bolojan says the security guarantees Europe is to offer Ukraine will in fact benefit the entire eastern flank, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, and that they cannot be ensured without the support of the United States. He said on Sunday at the end of an informal summit hosted in London that the meeting was aimed at achieving coordination in the run-up to the European Council on 6th March and a meeting the next day with leaders of non-EU countries wishing to look for a solution to the war in Ukraine that will ensure lasting peace. According to the Romanian head of state, the leaders gathered in London agreed to maintain financial and military support for Ukraine.

Moldova. During a trip to the Republic of Moldova on Saturday, interim president Ilie Bolojan gave assurances that Romania would call on Europe to provide more financial support, expertise and projects for Moldova. Moreover, the Romanian government will continue to cap the prices of part of the electricity it sells to Moldova. Moldovan president Maia Sandu said Romania is her countrys best friend and most important partner, reliable in any circumstances. With respect to the war on their borders, both Romania and Moldova support Ukraine in its efforts to achieve lasting and fair peace.

Elections. Voting stations abroad need an estimated 3,600,000 ballots for the upcoming presidential elections in May, for each of the voting rounds, the foreign ministry told the Central Electoral Bureau. The first round of the presidential elections is due on 4th May, and the second on the 18th of May.

Cuts. The Romanian government this week plans to issue a decision to cut the number of under-secretaries, government sources have said. The ruling coalition, made up of the Social Democratic Party, the National Liberal Party and the Democratic Union of Ethnic Hungarians in Romania, have held talks on this subject and the cabinet led by the Social Democrat Marcel Ciolacu is to adopt a regulation providing for a maximum number of 54 under-secretaries. The same sources said that ministries that now have 6 or 7 posts of under-secretaries will remain with 4 at the most, and each will be validated by the coalition. Also, under-secretaries who are part of management boards of state companies will have to choose between the two positions. The latter is a request from the European Commission, which said that management boards of state companies should include professionals, not politicians. Also this week, prime minister Ciolacu will hold talks with his ministers on the fulfilment of the milestones laid down in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The absorption of European funds is a particularly challenging aspect, and the prime minister wants to stay abreast with the stages of ongoing projects.

Romania-Pakistan. The Romanian embassy in Pakistan opened an honorary consulate in Peshawar to serve this countrys north-western part. This significant stage marks a new chapter in the consolidation of diplomatic, economic and cultural ties between the two countries, the Romanian diplomatic representation in Islamabad said in a Facebook post. Pakistan is one of the countries providing a constant flow of workers to Romania.

Romania-Poland. Romania and Poland are faced with contemporary threats resulting largely from beyond the eastern borders, where Russias war of aggression in Ukraine undermines the rules-based order and the fundamental principles laid down in the UN Charter and international law, said the Romanian foreign ministry on Romanian-Polish Solidarity Day on 3rd March. Established jointly by the two states in 2023, this day is both a symbol of the lasting links between the Romanian and Polish nations, and a significant indicator of the constant interest and the wish of the two countries to consolidate and develop their solid and comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the Romanian foreign ministry said. (CM)
March 3, 2025 UPDATE

A roundup of local and world news

Newsflash

Newsroom, 03.03.2025, 20:11

INITIATIVE A Parliament group of the Young Peoples Party (POT) has initiated the procedure of gathering signatures to suspend Ilie Bolojan from the position of the president of the Romanian Senate and implicitly from that of the countrys interim president. According to Anamaria Gavrila, leader of the aforementioned opposition party, Bolojan has seriously exceeded his authority and didnt consult citizens over the decision to raise defence expenses. In order to start the procedure of suspending the president, the request must be signed by at least one third of the number of MPs, namely 117 senators and deputies. The move comes after POT has joined the other two opposition groups, the Alliance for the Union of Romanians and SOS Romania, which are contesting at the Constitutional Court the law under which the Romanian Army can shoot down the drones violating Romanias airspace. The initiative is considered outrageous and dangerous by the Save Romania Union, another opposition party. Its leader, Elena Lasconi, has accused representatives of the three parties that they arent fighting for Romania, but against it, as they are trying to block measures aimed at protecting the people living close to Ukraines border and undermine Romanias capability of responding a real threat.

AID The European Union will this year allot another 60 million Euros to the Republic of Moldova so that the country may strengthen its defence capabilities, the European Council president, Antonio Costa, announced in Chisinau. According to him, within the European Peace Facility, set up for supporting the defence capabilities of various countries, the Republic of Moldova is the second beneficiary, with 137 million Euros allotted so far. The head of the European Council visited Chisinau on Monday, three years since the Republic of Moldova submitted its request for joining the European Union. Romanias interim President, Ilie Bolojan, also went to Chisinau over the weekend and gave assurances that Bucharest would call for more financial support, expertise and projects at EU level. Furthermore, Bolojan said, the Romanian government would continue to cap prices for a good part of the electricity the Republic of Moldova is buying from Romania.

UKRAINE Romanias interim president Ilie Bolojan says the security guarantees Europe is to offer Ukraine will in fact benefit the entire eastern flank, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, and that they cannot be ensured without the support of the United States. He said on Sunday at the end of an informal summit hosted in London that the meeting was aimed at achieving coordination in the run-up to the European Council on 6th March and a meeting the next day with leaders of non-EU countries wishing to look for a solution to the war in Ukraine that will ensure lasting peace. According to the Romanian head of state, the leaders gathered in London agreed to maintain financial and military support for Ukraine.

CUTS The Romanian government this week plans to issue a decision to cut the number of under-secretaries, government sources have said. The ruling coalition, made up of the Social Democratic Party, the National Liberal Party and the Democratic Union of Ethnic Hungarians in Romania, have held talks on this subject and the cabinet led by the Social Democrat Marcel Ciolacu is to adopt a regulation providing for a maximum number of 54 under-secretaries. The same sources said that ministries that now have 6 or 7 posts of under-secretaries will remain with 4 at the most, and each will be validated by the coalition. Also, under-secretaries who are part of management boards of state companies will have to choose between the two positions. The latter is a request from the European Commission, which said that management boards of state companies should include professionals, not politicians. Also this week, prime minister Ciolacu will hold talks with his ministers on the fulfilment of the milestones laid down in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The absorption of European funds is a particularly challenging aspect, and the prime minister wants to stay abreast with the stages of ongoing projects.

(bill)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) found and defused 305 anti-personnel and 123 anti-tank mines and 1,078 unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the country's liberated territories in February 2025, Trend reports via ANAMA's monthly report

The data indicates that an aggregate of 2,862.5 hectares of territory has undergone the demining process.

Going back to the ANAMA's recent history, it first started demining the territories shortly after April battles, when the Azerbaijani side established full control over its Jojug Marjanli village. Then it cleared 4,578 square meters of territory in the village. Currently, ANAMA holds demining operations in a territory of 280 hectares in the village. The operations involve 90 miners, 10 sapper dogs, and three vehicles for mechanical demining.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
European support for Ukraine

Europeans will continue to support Ukraine, both financially and militarily

Liderii europeni, reuniti la Londra / Foto: presidency.ro

Stefan Stoica, 03.03.2025, 14:00

The brutal failure of American-Ukrainian talks on Friday in Washington leaves little room for illusions about the United States assuming a major role in the Ukrainian peace process. Those who must now assume such a role are Europeans themselves. Europe is going through a unique moment for its security, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday in London, hosting an informal summit attended by about fifteen allies of Ukraine, in the presence of president Volodymyr Zelenskyy. EU leaders pledged to do more for Europes security and arm themselves, but they also insisted on the need to maintain strong support from the United States. The meeting highlighted the difference in approach between US president Donald Trump, who wants a quick peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, and European leaders, who seem willing to continue military support for Kyiv until it achieves a peace it deems convenient, AFP notes.

Europe, Starmer argues, must do the heavy lifting, but to defend peace on our continent and to succeed, this effort must be strongly supported by the United States. Several European countries will increase their defense spending, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in turn argued that the EU must urgently rearm and prepare for the worst. The Commission president announced that she would present a comprehensive plan for EU rearmament at the extraordinary European summit on March 6, a plan that will also address the need for EU countries to obtain fiscal leeway to increase military spending. Summit participants discussed the need for comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine in the future. Such guarantees, von der Leyen argues, must range from economic survival to military resilience.

Shortly before the London summit, the British Prime Minister announced that he was working with French President Emmanuel Macron on a plan to end the fighting in Ukraine, a plan that would then be presented to the United States. The plan also involves a coalition of volunteers from European countries to provide Ukraine with security guarantees in the event of a peace agreement with Russia, but also benefit from US support. The interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, also attended the London summit. The Romanian official confirmed that participants decided to maintain financial and military support for Kyiv until a ceasefire is agreed. European states must take on a greater burden for peace in Europe, and this implies increasing defense budgets. EU leaders agreed that security guarantees to Ukraine cannot be ensured without support from the US, president Bolojan further said. These security guarantees are not only for Ukraine, but are practically for the entire eastern flank, from the Baltic to the Black Sea, the Romanian official pointed out. (VP)
Romania  Moldova summit meeting

Romania and Moldova insist that no decision on peace in Ukraine can be made without Ukraine and appropriate security guarantees

Maia Sandu and Ilie Bolojan, in Chisinau / Photo: presidency.ro

Daniela Budu, 03.03.2025, 13:50

Romania and the Republic of Moldova (a former Soviet republic, mostly Romanian-speaking) insist that no decision regarding peace in Ukraine and the future of the Ukrainian people can be made without Ukraine and without adequate security guarantees, the interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, said on Saturday, in a joint conference with his Moldovan counterpart, Maia Sandu.

At the end of a meeting in Chisinau, he pointed out that the way to achieving peace for Ukraine will decisively influence the common security of Romania and the neighbouring Republic of Moldova.

Ilie Bolojan believes that extensive dialogue between Europe and the United States of America is a very good condition for reaching a consensus on the war in Ukraine.

As regards the talks between the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the US president Donald Trump, Ilie Bolojan voiced moderate optimism with respect to a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, but said he hoped that wisdom will prevail. He explained that neighbouring Ukraine needs a lasting peace and warned about the danger posed by Russias aggression:

Ilie Bolojan: If Russias expansionist views remain a constant in the years to come, it means that we can imagine a new conflict starting over, and Ukraine may be only the first victim.

On the other hand, Ilie Bolojan promised that Romania will ask for more financial support, know-how and projects for Moldova at European level. Also, Bucharest will continue to cap prices for a large part of the electricity the neighbouring country buys from Romanian producers. According to him, the Romanian authorities continue to work on strengthening the interconnection with the Republic of Moldova in the electricity sector.

In turn, president Maia Sandu said Romania is the best friend and most important partner of the Republic of Moldova, on which Chisinau has relied in all circumstances. Over the years, Bucharest has stood by Chisinau, with concrete support, with projects that improve peoples lives, with a clear and firm voice in supporting our European path, Maia Sandu added.

Romania is a reliable partner in our efforts to become a modern, European state. Beyond common projects, we are linked by a vision for the future, we are linked by the desire to live in peace, freedom, and democracy, Maia Sandu also said. She also explained that the people of the Republic of Moldova will not forget the times when Moscow tried to erase their identity and kill their language and culture.

Maia Sandu: We will continue to protect free elections, fight electoral corruption in any form it may take, and defend the right of our citizens; people, the nation should decide what kind of life they want, not Moscow.

As for the war on the border, Chisinau supports Kyiv in its efforts to achieve a lasting and just peace. (AMP)
Oil prices fell in choppy trade on Monday as tariff worries offset improved China data and increasingly unclear prospects for peace in Ukraine.

Benchmark Brent crude futures dropped half a percent to $72.44 a barrel in European trade while WTI crude futures were down 0.6 percent at $69.36.

On the tariff front, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Sunday said that the tariffs on Mexico and Canada will go into effect as scheduled on Tuesday, but President Donald Trump will determine their exact levels before implementation.

Lutnick also indicated that an additional 10 percent tariff on Chinese imports remains on the table for Tuesday. China has already vowed to counter with all necessary measures.

Meanwhile, after the collapse of a hoped-for deal between Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy, doubts have emerged over whether the U.S. will be able to broker a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine.

The spat between Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy over the weekend resulted in Zelenskiy leaving without signing a planned mineral supply deal.

The European Union said it is ready to work with all European partners and other allies on a peace plan to Ukraine that will ensure a just and lasting peace for Ukrainian people.

Investors were also reacting to upbeat manufacturing data from China, the world's biggest crude importer.

An official factory survey showed on Saturday that China's manufacturing activity expanded at the fastest pace in three months in February. The Caixin manufacturing PMI jumped to 50.8 in February from January's 50.1.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Market Analysis
The UK would finance Ukraine to buy 5,000 advanced air defense missiles.

This was announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer after a summit of European leaders Sunday as part of the UK's support for Ukraine to achieve peace through strength.

Besides European leaders, the NATO Secretary General and the Presidents of the European Commission and the European Council also met in London to discuss their collective support for Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attended the summit on the way back from his dramatic visit to the White House, where he walked out of a meeting with President Donald Trump over differences of opinion about a proposed minerals deal.



Under a 1.6 billion ($2.02 billion) deal, leading defense manufacturer Thales in Belfast will produce more than 5,000 lightweight-multirole missiles (LMM) for Ukraine's defense.

Starmer said, "My support for Ukraine is unwavering. I am determined to find a way forward that brings an end to Russia's illegal war and guarantees Ukraine a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security."

"As well as leveling up Ukraine's air defense, this loan will make working people here in the UK better off, boosting our and supporting jobs in Northern Ireland and beyond. By doubling down on our support, working closely with key partners, and ensuring Ukraine has a strong voice at the table, I believe we can achieve a strong, lasting deal that delivers a permanent peace in Ukraine," he added.

Defense Secretary John Healey said this new support will not only help protect Ukraine against Russian drone and missile attacks but will also help deter further Russian aggression following any end to the fighting.

The deal builds on the 100 Year Partnership signed recently by Keir and Zelenskyy in Kyiv. The contract will enable Ukraine to draw on 3.5 billion ($4.42 billion) worth of export finance to acquire military equipment from UK companies, boosting both the UK's and Ukraine's defense industrial bases and support investment in further military capabilities.

Ukraine has already put the highly capable LMM missile to use as part of its air defenses where it has proven to be effective in protecting civilians and critical infrastructure from Russia's bombardment.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Political News
U.S. State Secretary Marco Rubio has signed a declaration to use emergency authorities to expedite the delivery of approximately $4 billion in military assistance to Israel.

The decision reverses the Biden Administration's partial arms embargo, which withheld a number of weapons and ammunition from Israel.

It shows "yet another sign that Israel has no greater ally in the White House than President Trump," Rubio said in a statement.

Since taking office, the Trump Administration has approved nearly $12 billion in major FMS sales to Israel. "This important decision coincides with President Trump's repeal of a Biden-era memorandum which had imposed baseless and politicized conditions on military assistance to Israel at a time when our close ally was fighting a war of survival on multiple fronts against Iran and terror proxies," Rubio said.

He vowed that the Trump Administration will continue to use all available tools to fulfill the United States' long-standing commitment to Israel's security, including means to counter security threats.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signed a memorandum urging all Defense Department civilian employees to prepare five bullet points detailing their work accomplishments from the prior week.

On Monday, those employees can expect an email from the Defense Department requesting that same information, he wrote in the memo. Within 48 hours they are expected to reply to that email, with their accomplishments included, and add their supervisors as recipients.

The responses will be consolidated internally within the department in order to satisfy related directives from the Office of Personnel Management, Hegseth said in a video statement released at the weekend.

Last month, OPM had sent a request for the same information, but the department's Office of Personnel and Readiness told employees to stand down on the request while the department worked with OPM to get more clear guidance on what is expected.

"The Department of Defense initially paused this directive ... but now requires all DOD civilian employees to submit five bullets on their previous week's achievements," Hegseth said in his memorandum.

Hegseth has warned that the Defense Department employees who fail to respond to the mail may face "further review."

He noted that responses to the email should not include classified or sensitive information.

Civilian employees who will not have email access in the 48 hours following delivery of the email due to being on leave, shift work or other reasons, are to complete the request within 48 hours of regaining access, the secretary wrote.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
The senior military leader of an Al-Qaeda affiliate terrorist organization has been killed in a U.S. airstrike in Northwest Syria.

U.S. Central Command said its forces conducted a precision airstrike targeting Muhammed Yusuf Ziya Talay, the senior military leader of Hurras al-Din (HaD).

He is the fourth terrorist at the Hurras al-Din's leadership level to have been eliminated by U.S. forces in the region in the past one month.

Hurras al-Din, sometimes referred to as Al-Qaeda in Syria, was a Salafi Jihadist organization that fought in the Syrian civil war.

"The airstrike is part of CENTCOM's ongoing commitment, along with partners in the region, to disrupt and degrade efforts by terrorists to plan, organize, and conduct attacks against civilians and military personnel from the U.S., our allies, and our partners throughout the region and beyond," CENTCOM said in a press release.

"As we have said in the past, we will continue to relentlessly pursue these terrorists in order to defend our homeland, and U.S., allied, and partner personnel in the region," said Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla, commander, U.S. Central Command.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
The Canadian market, which retreated after a positive start Monday morning, continues to languish in negative territory well past noon, with stocks from and energy sectors reeling under selling pressure.

Worries about new tariffs by the Trump administration, and data showing a sharp contraction in Canadian manufacturing activity in the month of February are weighig on sentiment.

The S&P Global Canada Manufacturing PMI fell to 47.8 in February of 2025 from 51.6 in the previous month, contrasting sharply with market expectations of 51.9. The result pointed to the first decline in factory activity since August of last year and the sharpest since December 2023.

On the tariff front, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Sunday said that the tariffs on Mexico and Canada will go into effect as scheduled on Tuesday, but Trump will determine their exact levels before implementation.

The benchmark S&P/TSX Composite Index was down 216.12 points or 0.85% at 25,177.23 a little while ago.

Celestica Inc is plunging 11.6%. Source Energy is plunging 8.4% and E-L-Financial Corporation is down 8%. Interfor Corporation, Vermilion Energy, Paramount Resources, MEG Energy, Precision Drilling Corporation, Cenovus Energy, Cameco Corporation and Nutren are down 5 to 7.5%.

TFI International, MDA Space, Suncor Energy, Methanex Corporation, Canadian Natural Resources, TerraVest Industries, ARC Resources, Shopify Inc., Cargojet and Bombardier Inc are down 2 to 4.7%.

Among the gainers, Stella-Jones is rising 4.5%, Chorus Aviation is up 4.3%, GFL Environmental is up 3.7%, Aya Gold & Silver is up 3.5, and Canadian Tire Corproation is rising 3.4%.

GDI Integrated, Docebo Inc., Pet Valu Holdings, Alamos Gold, Quebecor Inc., ATCO, Waste Connections, Endeavour Mining, Kinaxis, AltaGas and Sun Life Financial are up 1.2 to 3.4%.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. A total of 25 families, comprising 91 individuals, were relocated to the village to Hasanriz village in Azerbaijan's Aghdara district, a source in Restoration, Construction and Management Service in Khankendi city, Aghdara and Khojaly districts told Trend.

According to the source, the ceremony of key handover to the families brought together Elchin Yusubov, special representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Khankendi city, Aghdara and Khojaly districts, representatives of the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons, media representatives, and other persons.

Welcoming the families, Yusubov said that following the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev's instructions as part of the country's large-scale return to its liberated territories, the first group of former displaced persons has been relocated to the restored Hasanriz village, which is now prepared to welcome its residents, with the first families to resettle being those who had been temporarily accommodated in hostels, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings across the country.

He noted that today marked the first resettlement to Hasanriz village.

The returning residents expressed their gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive state support.

They also thanked the courageous Azerbaijani Army and the heroic soldiers and officers who liberated their homeland from occupation. In honoring the martyrs who sacrificed their lives, the returnees sent their deepest respects and wished strength and patience to their families.

Then the families received the keys to their homes and began to settle into their new apartments.

To note, the village is supplied with electricity, drinking water, and natural gas.

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Justine Mannering

New York-based investment banker, philanthropist and Board member of the Rhodes University USA Trust, Justine Mannering, has capped off the success of a spectacular year-long Rhodes Universitys 120th anniversary in 2024 with a year-end share donation.

The share donation accepted by the Rhodes University USA Trust valued at ~R70,000 added to a healthy stream of targeted income from the international alumni in North America for the year to support undergraduate bursaries, postgraduate research, and sports.

Mannering, a Managing Director in TD Securities Consumer Investment Banking Group, joined the Rhodes University USA Trust Board early last year to support fundraising activities for the landmark RU120 campaign in North America. At the time, the University welcomed Mannering as a capable and supportive Old Rhodian, a powerhouse of positive energy for good causes.

It is always a significant advantage when Old Rhodians join in such meaningful ways to make Rhodes University continue to stand out in delivering excellence globally as it has done for 120 years, the University said at the time.

Acknowledging the gift, the Rhodes University USA Trust Chair, Mr Donavan Neale-May, expressed his appreciation on behalf of Rhodes University, stating, like many, we owe a great deal to Rhodes and its contributions to our growth so great to see alumni giving back.

These donations signify important steps in the Universitys ongoing positive transformation in Rhodes Universitys international fundraising approach under the aegis of the RU120 anniversary project and emphasising results-driven excellence as a key value proposition for donors.

In 2024, the University hosted over 56 RU120 events worldwide under the theme of reconnecting, reuniting, and reimagining together with alumni, friends of Rhodes and other key stakeholders.

"The continued support from alumni and donors helps Rhodes University sustain excellence and build an even more resilient and sustainable future. While most of the RU120 events have been officially completed, resource mobilisation for key University fundraising priorities remains a critical strategic focus area, particularly on the international front," RU120 Project Manager, Dr Luzuko Jacobs said.
Scenes from the training

The MEQOQO Playback Theatre Collective recently hosted Mammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza, a representative of the South African Playback Theatre Association (SAPTA), for a weekend-long training session in Makhanda. The workshop focused on Playback Theatre techniques and was attended by members of MEQOQO as well as the 14-member cast of the 2025 Orientation Theatre Initiative (OTI), all of whom are Honours students.

This training is a crucial step as MEQOQO prepares for its participation in the annual OTI. It also highlights the significance of Applied Theatre and Playback Theatrean art form that has been practised for 50 years globally and 20 years in South Africa.

The 2025 OTI is particularly significant as it fosters a collaborative transformation between actors and audiences. In Playback Theatre, audience members share personal stories, which are then performed live by actors. To enhance inclusivity, the training sessions incorporated multilingual exercises, acknowledging the diversity of the audience in terms of race, culture, ethnicity, and language.

During the workshop, Thakhuli-Nzuza emphasised the physicality of storytelling, stating, You are an extension of your body's movement. She reminded actors that while they bring stories to life, these stories do not define them as individuals.

OTI: A flagship theatre project

The Orientation Theatre Initiative is the Rhodes University Drama Departments flagship project, commissioned by the Division of Student Services and Development (DSSD). Each year, the initiative develops and stages a theatre production specifically designed for first-year students. This years production, directed by Makhaola Ndebele, integrates Playback Theatre techniques to create an engaging storytelling experience.

This fusion brings up important issues and enables the audience to reflect on them, says Ndebele.

The play explores challenges commonly faced by first-year students, ranging from academic concernssuch as academic writing and plagiarismto social topics like relationships and alcohol use. The script remains dynamic, evolving to address emerging issues and audience feedback.

Enhancing storytelling through visual elements

The training workshop also incorporated visual storytelling elements, facilitated by the Drama Departments design supervisor, Angelinah Maponya, and art therapist Merran Roy from Intlantsi, who is also a member of MEQOQO.

The OTI production is set to premiere on 20 March 2025 at the Drama Departments Main Theatre, with over 30 students receiving training.

About the trainers and organisations

Mammatli Thakhuli-Nzuza is an applied drama facilitator, storyteller, and critical reflexive practice practitioner. A seasoned Playback Theatre performer, she conducted the initial training that led to the formation of MEQOQO in 2018. She also played a key role in organising the first International Playback Theatre Network (IPTN) conference in Africa. As co-founder and Secretary General of SAPTA, she continues to contribute to the growth of Playback Theatre in South Africa.

About SAPTA

The South African Playback Theatre Association (SAPTA) was established in 2023 following the International Playback Theatre Network (IPTN) conference. It serves as a unifying body for Playback Theatre practitioners across South Africa.

About MEQOQO

Founded in 2018, MEQOQO is housed within the Rhodes University Drama Department and is open to students, staff, and the broader Makhanda community.

What is Playback Theatre?

Playback Theatre, developed in 1975 by Jonathan Fox and Jo Salas along with the Original Company in the United States, is a form of improvisational theatre where personal stories shared by audience members are immediately performed by actors. The technique requires a high level of active listening and creative storytelling, skills that were a core focus of the training led by Thakhuli-Nzuza.
YARAT Contemporary Art Space was pleased to present the group exhibition Me and the Ark, Me and the Great Flood featuring works by local and international artists.

A meeting with the curator and artists was held before the opening of the exhibition. Each artist explained the history of the creation of their work, and at the end they answered questions from the audience.

Inspired by a contemporary interpretation of Nasimis philosophy, the group exhibition presents sculptures, installations and audiovisual projects commissioned by YARAT by Azerbaijani artists Tarlan Gorchu and Orkhan Huseynov, and artists Mladen Milyanovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina) and Pavla Nikitina (Czech Republic). The exhibition also features new projects, as well as works in various media by Mykhailo Alekseyenko, Volodymyr Budnikov and Vlada Ralko (Ukraine), Rimas Sakalauskas (Lithuania), Natalia Vatsadze (Georgia), Ali bey Huseynzade, Salim Turan and Elturan Mammadov (Azerbaijan).

In the 14th century, Seyid Imadaddin Nasimi wrote, All the world is human. His philosophy states that every person perceives reality through the prism of their own experience, shaping the world around them. Each of us perceives reality through the lens of personal experience, and with every individuals passing, an entire worldone that existed uniquely within their consciousnessceases to exist. This underscores our responsibility not only for ourselves but also for the world we shape through our actions and the choices we make.

Nasimis words, I am the watcher and the watched, I am both light and darkness, old and young, take on new relevance in the digital age, where social networks blur the boundaries between the individual and the collective. The ability to speak for oneself and the growing awareness of identity in all its diverse facets bring the issue of respecting boundariesboth personal and internationalto the forefront. The right to dignity and sovereignty foregrounds processes of inclusion and decolonization. Nasimi's voice is among the factors that provide support, inspiration, and hope in this context, as well as undermine colonial hierarchies built on knowledge.

Philosophical parallels can be found in the thoughts of Ukrainian neurophysiologist Oleg Krishtal. He compares the human brain to a time machine moving between two infinities. His formula resonates with Nasimi's philosophy: Infinity outside, infinity within, and in between  myself.

Offering a broad panorama of human existence, the group exhibition invites us to envision a future illuminated by Nasimis words: "You, who have grasped the word of God, shall not become a sage. Even if you do not become a sage, you will not remain a beast."

The exhibition will continue at YARAT Contemporary Art Space until October 26.

Curator: Kostiantyn Doroshenko.

Researcher: Nizami Mammadov.

Special thanks to the Azerbaijan Independence Museum.
Ultrahigh energy cosmic rays are the highest-energy particles in the Universe, whose energies are more than a million times what can be achieved by humans.

While the existence of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays has been known for nearly six decades, astrophysicists have not succeeded in formulating a satisfactory explanation for their origin that explains all the observations  until now.

A new theory introduced by New York Universitys Glennys Farrar provides a viable and testable explanation for how ultrahigh energy cosmic rays are created.

After six decades of effort, the origin of the mysterious highest-energy particles in the Universe may finally have been identified, Professor Farrar said.

This insight gives a new tool for understanding the most cataclysmic events of the Universe: two neutron stars merging to form a black hole, which is the process responsible for the creation of many precious or exotic elements, including gold, platinum, uranium, iodine, and xenon.

Professor Farrar proposes that ultrahigh energy cosmic rays are accelerated in the turbulent magnetic outflows of binary neutron star mergers  spewed out from the merger remnant, prior to formation of the final black hole.

The process simultaneously generates powerful gravitational waves  some already detected by scientists at the LIGO-Virgo Collaboration.

This work explains, for the first time, two of the most mysterious features of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays: the tight correlation between their energy and electric charge, and the extraordinary energy of a handful of the very highest energy events, Professor Farrar said.

Stemming from the study are two consequences that can provide experimental validation in future work:

(i) the very highest energy cosmic rays originate as rare r-process elements, such as xenon and tellurium, motivating a search for such a component in the ultrahigh energy cosmic ray data;

(ii) extremely high-energy neutrinos, originating from ultrahigh energy cosmic ray collisions, are necessarily accompanied by the gravitational wave produced in the parent neutron star merger.

The study appears in the journal Physical Review Letters.

_____

Glennys R. Farrar. 2025. Binary Neutron Star Mergers as the Source of the Highest Energy Cosmic Rays. Phys. Rev. Lett 134, 081003; doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.134.081003
Researchers at Tohoku University, the University of Manchester, and Osaka University have made a breakthrough that has the potential to ignite the development of next-gen chiral information technology.

Chirality is a property of materials where their mirror image is not identical to the original -- just like our left and right hands. This unique characteristic creates two distinct states, which researchers believe could one day be used to store digital information, much like the "0" and "1" states in conventional computing.

"Among various materials, helimagnets are particularly interesting because they exhibit chirality through their magnetic structure," says Alex Hiro Mayo (Tohoku University), "However, a major challenge in using these materials for information storage lies in how to effectively read out their chirality."

One promising solution comes from an unusual effect called nonreciprocal electronic transport, where electric current flows more easily in one direction than the other. This one-way electric flow, known as rectification, directly reflects the chirality of the material and could serve as a way to "read" magnetic information.

"If we can find a way to accurately use chirality to store data, it would mean a new era for information storage devices. However, the microscopic mechanism behind this rectification effect in chiral magnets is not yet fully understood. Unraveling this mechanism is essential for establishing material design principles that enable efficient chirality detection and enhanced readout performance," explains Mayo.

This collaborative research project addresses this knowledge gap by focusing on a unique quantum material -- -EuP 3 -- which is a helimagnetic material where the local magnetic moments of europium (Eu) atoms create a chiral magnetic texture. They carefully controlled the magnetic structure using external magnetic fields, which in turn manipulated the material's electronic behavior to reveal the microscopic origins of nonreciprocal transport. These findings are described in a study recently published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) on January 23, 2025.

Unlike conventional metals with complex "electronic band structures," which dictate how electrons flow inside a material, -EuP 3 has a simpler electronic landscape, making it an ideal platform for uncovering the direct relationship between magnetism and electron transport. By altering the material's magnetic state between chiral and achiral phases, researchers observed a strong rectification effect in the chiral phase, which completely vanished as soon as the magnetic state transitioned to the achiral phase.

Combining experimental results with theoretical calculations, they demonstrated that the "magnetic twist" in the chiral phase directly induces electronic band asymmetry, which in turn triggers one-way electric flow.

This work provides a crucial microscopic-level understanding of how magnetic chirality governs electronic transport, offering key insights for designing new functional quantum materials and enabling future applications in chiral information storage and next-generation electronic devices.
According to the World Health Organization, about 3.9% of the world's population has had post-traumatic stress disorder at some point during their lives. That number is higher in the United States, at about 6%.

PTSD can happen to an individual after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event and can last for months or years. But there is a lot that is still not understood about this mental health condition.

Anthropologists, social scientists and veterans from Arizona State University and the Naval Postgraduate School are the first to analyze the relationship between the hormones cortisol and testosterone and PTSD in a non-industrialized society.

This new study sheds more light on the PTSD puzzle.

Homing in on hormones

Previous studies about PTSD and hormones have focused only on people living in Western or European industrialized societies. They included people who suffered from different types of trauma like car crashes, assault and multiple deployments, according to Ben Trumble, a research scientist at the Institute of Human Origins and associate professor at the School of Human Evolution and Social Change.

The studies showed the majority of people diagnosed with PTSD had very little change in their cortisol levels throughout the day. Instead, the results showed "blunted" levels of cortisol and not the normal rise and fall patterns.

"In healthy men, hormones like testosterone and cortisol follow a pattern throughout the day," Trumble said. "Hormone levels are the highest just after waking up, and then decline rapidly. Levels are low throughout the day, and rise again at night."

The big question Trumble and colleagues wanted to answer was, would they see this same pattern in a non-industrialized population with people who suffered from the same type of trauma?

"Our study is the first to examine associations between hormones (cortisol and testosterone) among the Turkana," Trumble said. "Turkana pastoralists experience a high degree of combat exposure, and 28% of men have symptoms of PTSD. Because nearly everyone gets exposed to combat, we can see if there are biological differences in hormones for those with PTSD and those without PTSD. So, in this case we can compare apples to apples and not apples to oranges."

What the ASU scientists found was surprising.

"We did not find any difference in cortisol for Turkana warriors with a provisional PTSD diagnosis versus those without PTSD," said Michael Baumgarten, an Institute of Human Origins-affiliated graduate student and Army Ranger veteran. "Both groups of warriors had nearly identical cortisol patterns. Interestingly, Turkana men with PTSD had lower testosterone when they woke up compared to those without PTSD."

"A more applied takeaway is to look at the results of this study and either retain or increase the level of skepticism one has of narratives that claim to have a crystal-clear picture of how human physiology responds to the stresses of combat -- especially if they are trying to sell you something," he said.

Why the Turkana?

Being a livestock farmer, or pastoralist, in Kenya near South Sudan can be dangerous and deadly.

The Turkana are mobile pastoralists and engage in cattle raiding, said Matthew Zefferman, an assistant professor at the Naval Postgraduate School and U.S. Air Force veteran.

Zefferman spent half a year in the field with the Turkana during his postdoctoral fellowship at ASU.

"The Turkana in our study area, who raid other pastoralists, typically do so across the disputed border with South Sudan," he said. "They travel by foot, often over 60 miles and engage in small and large raids. They are also raided by members of other pastoral groups. These raids can result in firefights and the death of family members, and the loss of animals. About half of adult male deaths in the study area is due to raiding."

Turkana warriors experience similar trauma from combat exposure during cattle raids. They also share similar cultural backgrounds and are the same gender. This differs from previous studies conducted where trauma and cultural background are different.

"It is interesting to see how the physiological response to trauma exposure can differ based on cultural environment," said Sarah Mathew, a research scientist at the Institute of Human Origins and associate professor at the School of Human Evolution and Social Change. "It suggests that we can't answer basic questions about human biology by only studying industrialized populations."

Mathew's relationship with the Turkana since 2007 led to this project and many others, providing valuable information about non-industrialized cooperation, cultural norms and warfare.

While the study answers questions about hormonal regulation, there is still the question of why are the Turkana cortisol levels "normal" in those diagnosed with PTSD compared with Western populations?

The study sites many possible reasons including physical activity and cultural differences. The scientists say more research is needed.

A previous publication by Zefferman and Mathew stated that unlike soldiers of nation-state societies, "Turkana warriors are strongly endorsed by the whole community, have elevated status, perform culturally sanctioned rituals after raids, and are deeply integrated with their corresponding civilian community.

"These longstanding cultural traditions of warriorhood may buffer them from some of the negative physiological responses to combat trauma."

Mathew and the others emphasize the importance of sharing their findings with the Turkana. The researchers have engaged with the community over several years, and discuss findings from this and other ongoing studies and what these findings mean for future research.

"We can only do this research because of the support and help of the people we do the research with -- the Turkana," Zefferman said. "We acknowledge that their willingness to work with us is what has allowed us to do this research with potential benefits to our society.

"We go there at the grace of the people we work with."
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 3. Kazakhstan and Hyundai Engineering plan to jointly build gas plants such as gas separation and gas processing plants as one part of future cooperation, Trend reports.

The Chairman of the Board of JSC "Samruk-Kazyna," Nurlan Zhakupov, held a meeting with the Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Engineering, Chung Mong-Koo. The parties discussed cooperation in the oil and gas chemical industry.

Currently, the participation of the South Korean company in the projects for building a gas separation complex and a gas processing plant is under consideration.

In June 2024, during the 13th session of the Kazakhstan-South Korea Business Council, a Cooperation Agreement was signed between Hyundai Engineering and KazMunayGas.

The head of Samruk-Kazyna held a meeting with Hyundai Engineering President Yoon Young-Joon during his visit to South Korea in September.

Hyundai Engineering is an engineering company and a subsidiary of Hyundai Engineering & Construction, one of the largest construction conglomerates in the world.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The restrictions on the movement of ships in all sea ports of Azerbaijan were lifted owing to the improvement of weather conditions, the Public Relations Service of the State Maritime and Port Agency under Azerbaijans Ministry of Digital Development and Transport told Trend.

"The restrictions on ship entry and exit in all of Azerbaijans seaports, imposed due to adverse weather conditions, have been lifted. Operations are now proceeding as usual," the service said.

Meanwhile, just a few days ago, due to adverse weather conditions, a ban was imposed on ship movements across all of Azerbaijans seaports, and all vessels were relocated to designated shelters for safety.

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ASIA

Afghanistan

Expected Council Action

In March, the Security Council is expected to renew the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). UNAMAs current mandate expires on 17 March.

The Council is also scheduled to convene for its quarterly open briefing on Afghanistan. Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNAMA Roza Otunbayeva and a representative of civil society are expected to brief. Closed consultations are scheduled to follow the briefing.

Key Recent Developments

Afghanistan continues to grapple with one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world. According to the 2025 Afghanistan Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), 22.9 million Afghans will require humanitarian assistance this year, including 21 million lacking adequate water and sanitation, 14.8 million facing acute food insecurity, 14.3 million experiencing limited access to healthcare, and 7.8 million women and children requiring nutrition assistance. The HNRP also notes that stagnation in Afghanistans economy, which has contracted by approximately one-third since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, has contributed to widespread unemployment, underemployment, household debt, and poverty that affects around 48 percent of the population and severely restricts their ability to afford goods and services.

Despite the scale of this crisis, the humanitarian response in Afghanistan has struggled to attract funding. OCHAs 2024 Afghanistan HNRP, which called for $3.06 billion, was only 51.8 percent funded by the end of last year. In January, the World Food Programme (WFP) reported that it had been unable to provide rations to roughly half of the Afghans in acute need of food during winter because of funding cuts.

Efforts to respond to the humanitarian crisis have also been affected by the policies and practices of the Taliban. The 2025 HNRP notes that the Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, which was promulgated by the Taliban in late August 2024, is likely to continue impacting humanitarian operations and indicates that restrictive policies, bureaucratic and administrative impediments related to project registration and efforts to influence project design and implementation have complicated the operational environment for humanitarian actors.

The human rights situation in Afghanistan remains dire, particularly for women and girls. According to UNAMAs latest report on this issue, Taliban officials have continued to implement the Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice in ways which discriminate against women and girls and impact their human rights and fundamental freedoms, including by imposing additional restrictions that are not outlined in the decree. The report also highlights other human rights violations, such as the use of corporal punishment, restrictions on freedom of expression, and gender-based violence.

In late December 2024, the Talibans Ministry of Economy announced that any non-governmental organisations which fail to comply with a December 2022 decree prohibiting them from employing Afghan women will have their licences revoked. (For more information on the December 2022 decree, see our 12 January 2023 Whats in Blue story.) In a 31 December 2024 statement, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk expressed alarm regarding the announcement and reiterated his call for the Taliban to reverse the decree.

On 27 December 2024, Council members issued a press statement on Afghanistan. Among other matters, the press statement expressed deep concern regarding the negative impact of the Talibans policies that restrict the human rights and fundamental freedoms of women and girls and urged the Taliban to reverse these practices, including the Law on the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice and the December 2024 directive preventing women and girls from attending classes at medical institutions. It further underscored the importance of dialogue, consultation, and engagement among all Afghan stakeholders, including through the Doha process convened by the UN, and emphasised the importance of developing a political roadmap.

Signs of disunity among the Talibans leadership have also emerged in recent weeks. In mid-January, Taliban Deputy Foreign Minister Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai publicly criticised the ban on girls education, reportedly saying that it does not align with Islamic law and calling for a change in policy.

Terrorism continues to pose a serious threat in Afghanistan. On 11 February, dozens of people were killed and injured by a suicide bombing near a bank in Kunduz. The attack, which was claimed by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant-Khorasan (ISIL-K)ISILs Afghan affiliatewas condemned by Council members in a 12 February press statement. China authored the press statement.

The 6 February report of the Monitoring Team assisting the 1267/1989/2253 ISIL/Daesh Sanctions Committee says that ISIL-K has been assessed as posing the greatest extraregional terrorist threat and notes that the group has conducted attacks in Europe and is actively seeking to recruit members from Central Asian states. The report also indicates that there are more than two dozen terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan that pose a serious challenge to the stability of the country, as well as to the security of Central Asian and other neighbouring states.

Against this backdrop, the Taliban has continued to seek closer ties with member states. On 8 January, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai. Following the meeting, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement noting that the discussions covered humanitarian assistance programmes, Afghanistans developmental needs, and the use of Chabahar port for trade and commercial activities, among other matters. On 26 January, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Taliban officials, including Muttaqi, in Kabul. The discussions reportedly focused on tensions on the border between Afghanistan and Iran, Afghan refugees in Iran, and water rights. On 22 December 2024, Saudi Arabia announced that it would reopen its embassy in Kabul for the first time since August 2021.

Tensions between Pakistan and the Taliban have risen significantly in recent months. In a 26 December 2024 post on X, UNAMA said that it had received credible reports that dozens of civilians, including women and children, were killed in airstrikes by Pakistans military forces in Paktika province on 24 December 2024 and called for an investigation into the incident. Several media outlets have reported that the strikes targeted Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP), citing Pakistani security officials. On 28 December 2024, the Taliban announced that it had attacked several targets inside Pakistan in retaliation for the airstrikes.

In early February, Pakistani authorities threatened to deport Afghan refugees awaiting relocation if their cases are not processed quickly by potential host states and ordered those living in Islamabad and surrounding areas to move elsewhere within Pakistan by 31 March.

On 31 January, the US Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction issued a report on the frozen assets belonging to Afghanistans central bank. The report argued that the Taliban has no legal right to the assets and indicated that the administration of US President Donald Trump may want to examine returning nearly $4 billion earmarked for Afghanistan to the custody and control of the US government.

Human Rights-Related Developments

On 23 January, International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim Asad Ahmad Khan announced that his office had filed applications for arrest warrants for Taliban Supreme Leader Haibatullah Akhundzada and Taliban Chief Justice Abdul Hakim Haqqani, saying that there are reasonable grounds to believe that both men bear criminal responsibility for the crime against humanity of persecution on gender grounds. On 24 January, a group of independent human rights experts appointed by the Human Rights Council issued a statement welcoming the request.

Women, Peace and Security

On 23 January, the Informal Experts Group (IEG) on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) met on the situation in Afghanistan. Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General (Political) for Afghanistan Georgette Gagnon briefed. According to the summary of the meeting (S/2025/119), circulated on 13 February by Denmark and Sierra Leone as the IEG co-chairs, together with the UK, the penholder on WPS, the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan has continued to deteriorate. Among other issues, Gagnon and Council members discussed restrictions and violations of the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, engagement with the de facto authorities by UNAMA and Afghan women, as well as sexual and gender-based violence. IEG members inquired about decrees, edicts, and laws restricting womens rights; the challenges faced by UNAMA in implementing its mandate with regard to the rights of women and girls; as well as womens participation and the inclusion of womens rights in the Doha process.

UN Women, as the IEG Secretariat, recommended that, in its consideration of UNAMAs mandate, the Security Council retain all existing gender-related language from resolution 2626, which renewed UNAMAs mandate in March 2022, and call for its full implementation. UN Women also recommended that the Council demand womens meaningful participation in all diplomatic efforts regarding Afghanistan, condemn the new restrictions imposed on women and girls by the de facto authorities, and demand that humanitarian service providers are able to conduct their work safely and without discrimination on the basis of gender. UN Women further recommended that Council members request detailed information from international partners on womens participation in relevant diplomatic engagements on Afghanistan and on the inclusion of womens rights in the agendas of such events. It also recommended committing a minimum of 30 percent of all funding for Afghanistan to initiatives focused on gender equality and womens rights, including long-term, flexible funding to women-led organisations.

Key Issues and Options

The renewal of UNAMAs mandate is a key priority for the Security Council in March. The Council will need to decide whether to extend the missions mandate for another year without making any changes to its priorities and tasks or if there is a need to adjust the mandate. It seems that Council members generally consider the missions mandate to be sufficiently robust, although there may be differences over whether to include preambular language on certain issues, such as human rights.

The Talibans continuing refusal to adhere to many of Afghanistans international obligations, especially those relating to women and girls, is a major issue for the Council and directly contradicts the recommendations outlined in the report of the independent assessment on Afghanistan requested by resolution 2679 of 16 March 2023 and the related Doha process. (For more information on the independent assessment, see our 27 November 2023, 8 December 2023, and 28 December 2023 Whats in Blue stories.) Council members could ask for an informal meeting with representatives of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA) and UNAMA to discuss how to proceed in light of the Talibans actions. Members could use this meeting to ask questions about particular aspects of the independent assessment recommendations, including the roadmap for political engagement. They could also ask for an update on next steps in relation to the Doha process and the activities of the working groups on counter-narcotics and the private sector that participants in the third Doha meeting agreed to establish in mid-2024. The working groups held virtual meetings on 12 and 13 February, respectively.

The terrorist threat in Afghanistan is also a major concern for the Council. Members could request a meeting with a counter-terrorism expert to discuss possible options for responding to this threat. Members may also wish to consider whether any of the terrorist groups currently operating in Afghanistan that are not included on the 1267/1989/2253 ISIL/Daesh Sanctions List satisfy the listing criteria and whether there is a need to submit a listing request to the 1267/1989/2253 ISIL/Daesh and Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee.

The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan is another significant issue. During the Councils last open briefing on Afghanistan in December 2024, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher called for the Council to support efforts to reduce aid obstruction and restrictive measures. Members could hold an informal meeting with humanitarian actors to discuss possible steps that the Council could take in this regard.

Council Dynamics

Although Council members are generally united in their desire to see a prosperous, peaceful Afghanistan free from terrorism and ruled by an inclusive government, they are divided over how to achieve this goal. Some members, including the P3 (France, the UK, and the US) and other like-minded states, have previously argued that the Taliban must adhere to international norms in order to obtain international recognition and receive economic and development aid from the international community.

China and Russia, on the other hand, have contended that the international community should provide assistance to Afghanistan without linking it to other issues, such as human rights, and appear to prefer dialogue and engagement without any increased pressure. Russia has reportedly decided to remove the Taliban from its list of designated terrorist organisations and, in December 2024, the lower house of Russias parliament approved a bill intended to pave the way for such a move.

The divide among Council members has been evident during recent negotiations concerning Council products. During the negotiations on the 27 December 2024 press statement, China apparently expressed initial opposition and suggested that it would not participate in negotiations, however it later engaged on the text after Russia provided comments. In addition, it seems that some members, including France, pushed for the inclusion of stronger language on WPS and human rights in the text.

Council members have not been able to agree on the penholdership on the Afghanistan file since Japanwhich held the pen in 2024ended its two-year Council term in December 2024. Two pairs of Council members have indicated that they are willing to work together as co-penholdersChina and Pakistan on the one hand, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the US on the other. Members held closed consultations to discuss this issue on 10 February, following a request from Algeria.

This disagreement appears to have complicated the negotiations concerning the renewal of UNAMAs mandate. In early February, China and Pakistan proposed a draft resolution on the renewal of the mandate. This was followed by the ROK and the US presenting an alternative text the next day. It seems that neither draft proposed substantive changes to UNAMAs mandate, and that the difference between the two texts was the inclusion of preambular language on human rights and other issues in the ROK/US draft and a change to UNAMAs reporting cycle in the China/Pakistan draft. On 21 February, China, in its capacity as Security Council president in February, presented a consolidated text combining some elements of the two drafts. At the time of writing, it appears that Council members have agreed to work on this consolidated draft.

Next months quarterly meeting will mark the first time that new Council members Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama, and Somalia deliver statements on Afghanistan since joining the Council in January. Pakistan, which regularly participated in meetings on UNAMA under rule 37 of the Councils provisional rules of procedure prior to joining the Council, is expected to be particularly active on the file moving forward.

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AFRICA

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Expected Council Action

In March, the Security Council will hold a briefing and consultations on the situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The anticipated briefer is Bintou Keita, the Special Representative and Head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO).

Key Recent Developments

The fighting between the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) and the Mouvement du 23 Mars (M23) has escalated since early January, with the M23 significantly expanding its territorial control in North Kivu and capturing Goma, the provincial capital. More than 3,000 people have been killed in this latest round of fighting, which has displaced many others. The humanitarian situation has also worsened due to the disruption of critical infrastructure and basic services. The M23 declared a unilateral humanitarian ceasefire on 4 February, but fighting resumed in South Kivu, with the group making further military advances southward.

Council members met three times in January and once in February to discuss the unfolding security situation in eastern DRC. (For more information, see our 15 January, 25 January, 28 January, and 19 February Whats in Blue stories.) The situation also prompted a flurry of diplomatic activities in Africa, with the African Union (AU) and several regional economic communities holding emergency meetings to discuss the matter. Nonetheless, these meetings have had little impact on the situation on the ground, as the M23 continued to advance in South Kivu, capturing Bukavu, the provincial capital, by mid-February.

MONUSCO withdrew from South Kivu in June 2024, following the disengagement plan agreed with the Congolese government in 2023. The FARDC and allied militias reportedly had retreated from the area. Burundian forces, initially deployed in eastern DRC under a bilateral agreement with Kinshasa to target Burundian dissident groups, later joined the fight against the M23 alongside the FARDC but are now reportedly withdrawing from South Kivu.

Meanwhile, media reports indicate that Ugandan forces have entered Bunia, the capital of Ituri province. Uganda has forces deployed in eastern DRC under a separate bilateral agreement with Kinshasa to combat the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an armed group affiliated with the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Daesh). The presence in the DRC of troops from various countries in the region and the heightened tensions among key actors have raised concerns that the situation could escalate into a wider conflict.

On 21 February, the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2773 on the situation in eastern DRC, which, among other things, demands the immediate cessation of further military advances by the M23, calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, and expresses the Councils readiness to consider additional measures against those who contribute to the continuation of the conflict in eastern DRC. (For more, see our 21 February Whats in Blue story.)

Human Rights-Related Developments In a 6 February press release, UN experts expressed concern over urgent protection needs and the dire living conditions of displaced civilians in the eastern DRC, voicing alarm at reports of indiscriminate attacks and summary executions. With the security situation compounded by widespread looting of humanitarian facilities and denials of humanitarian access, they appealed to the international community to augment efforts and funding to support the DRC government to protect and assist displaced persons. They also emphasised the need for proper investigations and accountability for the violations committed. Among other recommendations, the experts echoed the Secretary-Generals appeal for Rwanda to cease support to the M23 and withdraw from DRC territory. On 7 February, the Human Rights Council (HRC) held its 37th special session on the DRCs human rights situation. The special session was convened per the DRCs request on 3 February, supported by 27 member states of the Human Rights Council and 21 observer states. During the session, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stressed that the situation is trapping civilians in a spiral of violence. He called on all parties to lay down their weapons and resume dialogue within the framework of regional peace processes. Surya Deva, Chair of the Coordination Committee of the Special Procedures, and Keita, among others, also called for all parties to adhere to obligations under international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law and emphasised the need to restore lasting peace, respectively. At the sessions conclusion, the HRC adopted a resolution (A/HRC/37/L.1) establishing a fact-finding mission on the human rights abuses and IHL violations committed in the provinces of North and South Kivu. It further established an independent commission of inquiry to continue the work undertaken by the fact-finding mission after the fact-finding mission presents its comprehensive report at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Women, Peace and Security In a 3 February statement, Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict Pramila Patten condemned the renewed offensive carried out by the M23 with the support of the Rwandan Defence Force in eastern DRC. She expressed grave concern about the heightened risk and emerging reports of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in the area and urged all parties to abide by their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. Patten emphasised the importance of ensuring that survivors of CRSV have access to comprehensive multisectoral services and urged the parties to return to diplomatic talks and comply with the relevant Security Council resolutions on CRSV, including resolutions 1888, 2106 and 2467. In a 4 February press briefing, the Director of UN Women in Geneva and Chief of Humanitarian Action, Sofia Calltorp, similarly expressed deep concern about the situation of women and girls in eastern DRC. Among other recommendations, she called for enhancing prevention, protection, and response mechanisms for sexual and gender-based violence and for ensuring womens participation in peace negotiations and decision-making.

Key Issues and Options

A key issue for Council members in March is the security situation in eastern DRC. Members will be watching developments closely and could choose to issue a press or presidential statement reiterating the importance of implementing resolution 2773 in this regard.

A related issue is the humanitarian and human rights situation in the region. At the 19 February meeting, Council members heard accounts of serious human rights violations and abusessuch as summary executions, including of children, and conflict-related sexual and gender-based violence in eastern DRCfollowing the rapid deterioration of the security situation. A possible option for Council members is to request a briefing from the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs.

How to support ongoing regional efforts to find a lasting solution to the conflict in eastern DRC through diplomatic means will remain a major preoccupation for Council members. In March, they are likely to discuss the recent decisions by the AU and its regional mechanisms to address the situation in eastern DRC. They may also reaffirm the need to ensure the necessary coordination and complementarity among the various regional mediation initiatives and support the convening of a second quadripartite summit by the AU, including all the relevant regional mechanisms involved in finding a solution to the crisis in eastern DRC. (The quadripartite process was initiated by the AU at a summit in June 2023 and involved the East African Community, the Economic Community of Central African States, the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, and the Southern African Development Community.)

MONUSCOs disengagement process remains an ongoing issue for Council members. In line with resolution 2765 of 20 December 2024, which last renewed the missions mandate, MONUSCO and the Congolese government are expected to submit a tailored strategy to the Council by 31 March for a gradual, responsible, and sustainable withdrawal, considering the evolving conflict dynamics and protection risks. The development of this strategy, however, is likely to have been overtaken by the latest developments in eastern DRC, which are likely to force both the mission and the Congolese government to reassess the issue from a new perspective.

Being able to provide logistical and operational support from MONUSCO to the Southern African Development Community Mission in DRC (SAMIDRC), pursuant to resolution 2746 of 6 August 2024, is also an issue. It seems that the casualties sustained by SAMIDRC during the latest round of fighting have caused significant concern among its troop-contributing countries. In March, Council members may wish to seek updates on MONUSCOs coordination with SAMIDRC and its support for the force, considering the new realities on the ground.

Council and Wider Dynamics

Council members remain extremely concerned about the security and humanitarian situation in the eastern DRC. They all seem to agree that the solution to this long-standing issue is political, and they continue to support regional efforts. The role of external actors in the eastern DRC, however, has been a divisive issue among Council members. With the latest developments on the ground, many Council members are now openly calling for external actors to stop supporting armed groups in the eastern DRC, but the A3 Plus grouping (Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia, and Guyana) has been cautious in line with the decisions of the AU and its regional mechanisms, which do not explicitly reference Rwandas role. In the negotiations on resolution 2773, in light of the rapidly deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC, the A3 Plus came under pressure to reconsider its position. Among this grouping, Guyana was the first to support the draft text, which called on the Rwanda Defence Forces to cease support to the M23 and immediately withdraw from DRC territory without preconditions; ultimately, the other members of the A3 Plus also voted in favour of the resolution facilitating its unanimous adoption.

It seems that MONUSCO is in a challenging position, with its peacekeepers facing restrictions on their freedom of movement. This will likely impact the missions ability to carry out its mandated tasks. There appear to be ongoing internal discussions within the Secretariat regarding short-, medium-, and long-term scenarios for the mission in the face of the unfolding situation in eastern DRC. Currently, Council members seem to be focused on responding to the current situation but are likely to pay closer attention to this issue in the coming months.

SAMIDRCs situation in eastern DRC also appears to have sparked a domestic backlash in South Africa. A key troop-contributing country (TCC) to SAMIDRC, South Africa, has reportedly sent reinforcements after 14 of its soldiers were killed in North Kivu but has hinted at a potential drawdown, depending on the implementation of decisions adopted at the regional summits. Malawi, another TCC, has already decided to withdraw its troops from eastern DRC.

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AMERICAS

Haiti

Expected Council Action

In March, the members of the Security Council may discuss the Secretary-Generals 24 February letter containing strategic recommendations on the UN role in support of Haiti. Members might evaluate options for Council action to implement the Secretary-Generals recommendations.

The mandate of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) expires on 15 July, and the authorisation of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti ends on 2 October.

Background and Key Recent Developments

After the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, Haiti descended into a multidimensional crisis characterised by political deadlock, extreme violence, and dire humanitarian conditions. Armed gangs have overrun an estimated 85 percent of Port-au-Prince, the capital, employing tactics such as murder, kidnapping, and sexual violence against the civilian population amid widespread impunity. The country also continues to suffer from a governance crisis as elections have not taken place since 2016.

According to the Human Rights Service (HRS) of BINUH, in 2024, a total of 5,626 people were killed and 2,213 injured as a result of gang violence, self-defence groups, and operations by the Haitian National Police (HNP), representing a 26 percent increase in the number of casualties compared to 2023. The HRS also recorded 1,494 kidnappings for ransom by gangs in 2024.

The instability has caused widespread displacement and acute food insecurity. In a 14 January update based on data collected from 1 November to 30 December 2024, the International Organization for Migration recorded over 1,041,000 internally displaced people in Haiti, equivalent to 9 percent of the countrys population.

The situation of children in Haiti remains critical. In a 7 February statement, UNICEF spokesperson James Elder reported a staggering 1,000 percent rise in sexual violence against children from 2023 to 2024. He also cited a 70 percent increase in child recruitment into armed groups in 2024, noting that up to half of the gangs members are children, some as young as eight. Elder added that many children are forcibly recruited while others are manipulated or driven by extreme poverty. A recent Amnesty International report on the impact of gang violence on children documented the recruitment and use of children, rape and other forms of sexual violence, and killings and injuries of childrenthree of the six grave violations determined by the Security Councilnoting that these abuses have been perpetrated primarily by gang members. The report also highlighted concerns expressed by interviewees in Haiti about being targeted by self-defence groups and the police because of perceived affiliation with gangs.

The Secretary-General added Haiti as a situation of concern in his 2023 annual report on children and armed conflict. The 2024 annual report subsequently contained, for the first time, information on violations committed against children in the country.

In October 2022, the Haitian government appealed for the immediate deployment of an international specialised force to temporarily reinforce the efforts of the HNP to combat gangs. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres endorsed the request, recommending that [o]ne or several Member States, acting bilaterally at the invitation of and in cooperation with the Government of Haiti, deploy a rapid action force to support the HNP. In July 2023, Kenya agreed to lead a multinational force to the country, and several other countriesprimarily from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbeansubsequently stated their intention to participate in the force.

Although the UN would not be administering the proposed mission, Kenya, Haiti, and other stakeholders sought Security Council authorisation for the deployment. In October 2023, the Council adopted resolution 2699, authorising member states to form and deploy the MSS mission to Haiti under Kenyas leadership. The resolution, which authorised the mission for an initial period of 12 months, specified that the cost of the operation would be borne by voluntary contributions and support from individual countries and regional organisations. In September 2024, the Council unanimously adopted resolution 2751, renewing the missions authorisation for one year.

Funding for the MSS has, however, regularly failed to meet the missions estimated annual cost of approximately $600 million. The number of deployed personnel has also fallen short of the 2,500 officers envisaged in its Concept of Operations, with approximately 1,000 officers deployed at the time of writing.

On the ground, violence and insecurity remain pervasive, with the HNP and the MSS reportedly being stretched thin on several simultaneous battle fronts against gangs. The first MSS casualty was registered on 23 February when a Kenyan soldier died from injuries sustained in an operation in the Artibonite region.

In October 2024, the president of Haitis Transitional Presidential Council, Leslie Voltaire, addressed a letter to the Secretary-General requesting that the MSS be transformed into a UN peacekeeping mission as soon as possible.

In October and November 2024, Council members negotiated a draft resolution proposed by the US and then-Council member Ecuadorthe Councils co-penholders on Haiti at the timethat would have directed the Secretary-General to initiate planning to transform the MSS mission into a UN peacekeeping operation. The draft resolution was opposed by China and Russia, however, which referred to, among other issues, the chequered history of past UN peacekeeping operations in Haiti and reiterated their position that the countrys political and security conditions were not conducive to a new operation. As a compromise, the Council sent a letter on 29 November 2024 requesting the Secretary-General to provide strategic recommendations on the full range of options for UN support for Haiti, incorporating lessons learned from previous UN missions, political developments in Haiti, and the MSS mission.

The Secretary-General responded to the Councils request in a letter dated 24 February. He noted that transforming the MSS into a peacekeeping operation is not currently a feasible option. The Secretary-General added, however, that such an option could be considered once gang control has been substantially reduced.

The letter said that the medium-term focus should be to substantially reduce gangs territorial control in the capital, the Artibonite Department, and over critical infrastructureports, airports, and national roads. To achieve this goal, the Secretary-General suggested adopting a two-pronged strategy: the first would focus on enabling the MSS with UN logistical and operational support, and the second would focus on enhancing BINUHs capacity to implement its mandate and take on new responsibilities.

Regarding the first prong, the Secretary-General suggested establishing a UN Support Office, funded by peacekeeping assessed contributions. A key function handled by the Support Office would be the provision of comprehensive logistic and operational support to the MSS, such as accommodation, life support (food, fuel, and water), mobility support, medical capability, and IT support. Assessed funding would cover the MSS logistical and operational support, while scaled-up bilateral voluntary contributions from UN member states would cover forms of support for the MSS that the UN cannot provide, such as stipends, military-grade capabilities, and lethal equipment.

The letter proposes the following other functions for the UN Support Office:

Provision of a limited, non-lethal support package to the HNP that would be funded mostly through voluntary contributions;

Strengthened intelligence and analytical capabilities for the MSS and HNP in conducting joint operations, such as a joint operations centre and unmanned aerial vehicles for surveillance, that would be financed by peacekeeping assessed contributions;

Establishing implementation capacity for the UN Human Rights Due Diligence Policy, to be funded through peacekeeping assessed funds.

Regarding the second prong, the Secretary-General proposed that BINUH focuses on such priorities as the design and support of defection and safe exit programmes including for children, youth, and women forcibly recruited by gangs; supporting the Haitian authorities in handling the detention of high-risk individuals; and enabling the Haitian authorities to implement UN sanctions, notably the arms embargo, including through the creation of a UN Integrated Sanctions Support Unit within BINUH.

In his letter, the Secretary-General acknowledges that the proposed UN support options are based on a set of [a]ssumptions and [r]equirements, including significant investment from the peacekeeping budget as well as scaled-up voluntary contributions. Specifically, the letter says that the viability of UN logistical and operational support depends on whether Member States provide sufficient voluntary contributions to address the MSS missions gaps in personnel, military-grade equipment, and lethal assets. In this regard, the Secretary-General called for strengthened member state leadership through the establishment of a standing group of partners that could, among other things, secure voluntary contributions required to procure the support that the UN cannot provide.

Human Rights-Related Developments

In a 3 January press release, the UN Designated Expert on Human Rights in Haiti, William ONeill, expressed deep concern over attacks by gangs on hospitals and healthcare workers perpetrated in December 2024. Noting that only 37 percent of health facilities in Port-au-Prince are fully functional, he underscored that the attacks debilitated a system that was already near collapse. ONeill said that gang members repeated threats to attack health premises indicate that these are intentional assaults on the health care system and appealed to the international community to do everything it can to support the Haitian authorities to combat insecurity and guarantee the right to health.

In a 7 January press release, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk identified impunity for human rights violations, corruption, and entrenched economic and social inequalities as among the drivers of Haitis multidimensional crisis, and called on the national authorities, with the support of the international community, to undertake [a]dditional efforts to address these issues. Turk emphasised the need for logistical and financial support for the MSS mission and called on the HNP to reinforce its oversight mechanisms for human rights violations by the police. Noting that [w]eapons flowing into Haiti often end up in the hands of the criminal gangs, he called for the full implementation of the Security Councils sanctions regimeincluding the arms embargoas a crucial tool to prevent the supply of firearms and ammunition to Haiti.

Key Issues and Options

The Security Councils overarching objective in Haiti is to support the countrys political transition and assist international and domestic efforts to stem the surge in gang violence, with the ultimate aim of restoring security conditions conducive to holding elections and addressing the root causes of the countrys instability.

How to respond to the proposals contained in the Secretary-Generals 24 February letter is likely to be the key issue for the Security Council in March. The Council may convene a meeting to discuss the appropriate course of action. One option would be to adopt a resolution operationalising the Secretary-Generals proposals for the creation of a Support Office and for enabling BINUH to better implement its mandate and assume new responsibilities.

When addressing the situation in Haiti during his 19 February remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the Caribbean Communitys 48th Regular Meeting of Heads of Government, Guterres stressed the importance of tackling the weapons and drug trafficking that is fuelling violence across the region, including through address[ing] the countries of origin and the countries of destination. The resolution could also demand that UN member states, in particular countries in the region, step up their efforts to ensure the full implementation of the arms embargo.

Additionally, the Council could invite ONeill and a representative of Haitian civil society to provide an update on the human rights situation in the country in a closed Arria-formula meeting format to allow for frank discussion.

Council Dynamics

Council members are united in their concern about Haitis multidimensional crisis and generally agree on the need to tackle escalating gang violence and its impact on civilians. Views also converge on the importance of a Haitian-led political solution that addresses both security and socioeconomic challenges.

Views have varied, however, on appropriate Council responses to address the situation. Proposals to transform the MSS into a UN peacekeeping operation have been contentious, with France, the UK and the US expressing support for this course of action at different points. Panama also noted the advisability of considering the possible transformation of the MSS into a peacekeeping operation during the most recent Council meeting on Haiti, which was held on 22 January. Conversely, China and Russia have opposed this option during past negotiations on Haiti.

As part of larger cuts to development aid programmes undertaken by the new US administration of President Donald Trump, the US has partially frozen funding to Haiti, including its contribution to the UN-administered trust fund for the MSS. (The trust fund, which was established pursuant to resolution 2699, collects voluntary contributions for the overall support for the MSS.)

The US and Panama are the co-penholders on Haiti.

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In Hindsight: The US Pivot on Ukraine and Shifting Security Council Dynamics

On 24 February, the Security Council adopted resolution 2774, a short US-authored text calling for a swift end to the Russia-Ukraine war and urging a lasting peace between the countries. Marking the third anniversary of Russias invasion, it was the first substantive resolution on Ukraine passed by the Council since the war began in February 2022. The resolution underscored a major shift in the geopolitical landscape, highlighting Washingtons evolving approach to the war and exposing fractures among the P3 (France, the UK, and the US). Earlier in the day, the General Assembly voted on competing resolutionsone authored by European Union (EU) member states and another by the USafter the US unexpectedly introduced its own text, omitting references to Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, triggering a diplomatic standoff with Kyiv and its European allies. The divisions that emerged during the votes in both the Security Council and the General Assembly could signal a broader realignment in global diplomacyone that could potentially reshape transatlantic relations, Council dynamics, and the future of international engagement on Ukraine.

Efforts at the UN on Ukraine

From the outset of the war, Ukraines Western allies, led largely by the US, promoted a two-pronged strategy: providing hefty military and economic aid to Ukraine while seeking to isolate Russia diplomatically and through sanctions. At the General Assembly, they framed their support as a defence of the UN Charters core principles, especially Article 2 (4), which states that members shall refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. Early General Assembly resolutions condemning Russias aggression and its attempted annexation of occupied territories received overwhelming support. On 23 February 2023, Ukraine and its allies tabled a General Assembly resolution marking the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine that reaffirmed the need for a settlement based on the UN Charters principles of sovereign equality and territorial integrity. It was adopted with 141 votes in favour.

However, even by the first anniversary, calls for a ceasefire were intensifying. A large number of countries (especially in the Global South) had begun to view the continuing war as a European security issue that had detrimental economic repercussions for them, particularly in the form of rising food prices. Some also expressed concern that the war in Ukraine was diverting global attention and humanitarian aid from other pressing crises, contributing to their decision to prioritise promoting an immediate cessation of hostilities.

As the war continued, Ukraines partners continued to furnish generous military and financial support, while maintaining Russias diplomatic isolation. They opposed calls for a ceasefire, arguing that it would freeze the front lines, leaving Russia in control of occupied Ukrainian territory. Instead, they insisted that the only just peace required Russias full withdrawal from Ukraines internationally recognised borders, pledging continued support to achieve that outcome.

US Strategic Recalibration

The inauguration of US President Donald Trump in January marked a sharp shift in Washingtons Ukraine policy. On the campaign trail, Trump had criticised US military aid and pledged to end the war within 24 hours. Once in office, he called for an immediate ceasefire, underscoring a decisive break from the stance of his predecessor, Joe Biden.

The Trump administration swiftly moved to shift responsibility for Ukraines security onto Europe, downplaying the prospects of NATO membership for Kyiv and questioning the feasibility of restoring its pre-2014 borderspositions seen by many in Europe as major concessions to Moscow. The administration also echoed the Russian position at times, with Trump labelling Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a dictator (although he later appeared to question this comment) and calling for elections in Ukraine. At the same time, he sought a natural resources agreement with Kyiv, which would involve rare earth minerals. During a 28 February visit to the White Housewhere the deal was expected to be signedZelenskyy and Trump clashed publicly during a press conference, and Zelenskyy left the White House without signing the deal.

Simultaneously, the US has pursued a rapprochement with Russia. On 18 February, a high-level US-Russia summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, signalled a broader reset in the relationship between the two countries. This raised concerns that Washington and Moscow might negotiate Ukraines fate without Kyiv or its European allies. Analysts drew parallels to the Yalta Conference of 1945, where the Soviet Union, the UK, and the US divided postwar Europe into spheres of influence. The fear was that Ukraine could now be subject to a similar agreement, sidelining European security interests.

Adding to European unease, the Trump administrations position towards some traditional US allies also appears to be shifting. US officials have pressed Europe to take greater responsibility for Ukraines security, while at the Munich Security Conference on 14 February, US Vice President JD Vance downplayed Russia and China as Europes primary security threats. Instead, he framed the biggest challenge as Europes own retreat from some of its most fundamental values, including free speech and democracy, hinting at a potential shift in Washingtons approach to its traditional transatlantic alliances.

Diplomatic Showdown at the UN

The shift in US policy culminated in a high-stakes confrontation at the UN on 24 February, the wars third anniversary. Kyiv and its European allies appear to have been caught off guard when Washington introduced its own draft resolution for consideration by both the General Assembly and the Security Council, despite ongoing negotiations on a Ukrainian- and European-led text to be tabled only in the General Assembly. The US proposal notably omitted references to Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity and avoided condemning Russias invasion.

The move rattled European diplomats, particularly as Washington had been engaging in negotiations without expressing any obvious concerns with the Ukrainian-EU text. Breaking from transatlantic unity, the US pressed Ukraine to withdraw its draft resolution in favour of its own draft and urged member states to withhold support. It even threatened to vote against the Ukrainian-EU resolution. However, Ukraine and the EU members proceeded, setting the stage for a diplomatic showdown in the General Assembly framed as a contest between pragmatism and principle.

The US argued that achieving peace requires a forward-looking approach rather than assigning blame. France, speaking on behalf of EU member states, countered that any settlement must be rooted in international law to avoid legitimising aggression and paving the way for the wars of tomorrow. France further warned that failing to hold Russia accountable would enshrine the primacy of force over law, effectively endorsing the concept of spheres of influence and undermining sovereign equality.

The General Assembly vote revealed deep divisions among member states. The Ukrainian-EU resolution secured 93 votes in favour48 fewer than a similar 2023 resolutionwith notable shifts in African votes.[1] The US voted against it, together with Russia and 16 other countries, while 65 members abstained. Meanwhile, Russia proposed an amendment to the US resolution, adding language on the root causes of the conflict, while France, on behalf of EU member states, introduced three amendments that referenced Russias invasion, Ukraines sovereignty, and the need for a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace based on the UN Charter. Russias amendment failed due to insufficient support, whereas Frances amendments were adopted, leading the US to abstain on its own resolution. The US resolution was adopted with 93 votes in favour, eight against and 73 abstentions.

Fractures among the P3

Events in the Security Council that afternoon mirrored the tensions at the General Assembly. After the US announced on 21 February its intention to table a Security Council resolution nearly identical to its General Assembly text, discussions apparently took place among the P3, during which France and the UK proposed amendments to the US draft. While the US appears to have discussed proposals with Russia and Ukraine, it ultimately rejected European modifications and proceeded with its original draft.

It seems that, after proposing its General Assembly draft resolution, the US had also asked China, Februarys Council President, to schedule the Security Council vote ahead of the General Assemblys vote on the Ukrainian-EU resolution. There was some speculation that this could lead to a member invoking Article 12 of the UN Charter[2] to try to stop the General Assembly vote. There were also concerns that holding the Security Council vote ahead of the General Assembly vote could undermine support for the Ukrainian-EU resolution. A Council vote on the US draftwhich notably diverged from the Ukrainian-EU text by omitting references to Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrityrisked shaping perceptions ahead of the General Assembly vote. Some worried that this sequence could influence undecided member states, potentially leading to fewer votes in favour of the Ukrainian-EU resolution and more abstentions.

At the start of the Security Council meeting, France, on behalf of Denmark, France, Greece, and the UK, proposed a motion to postpone the meeting. France argued that the US draft had been introduced without real negotiations and required further revisions. The US opposed the motion, which led to a procedural vote to adjourn the meeting until 3 pm the following day.[3] The motion failed to pass, receiving six votes in favour (China, Denmark, France, Greece, Slovenia, and the UK), three against (Panama, Somalia, and the US), and six abstentions (Algeria, Guyana, Pakistan, the Republic of Korea, Russia, and Sierra Leone).

The Council then voted on five amendmentsthree from the five European Council members (E5) and two from Russia. The E5s proposal to replace the Russia-Ukraine conflict with the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation failed to secure the required nine votes. Russia vetoed two other E5 amendments that sought to reaffirm Ukraines sovereignty and call for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace based on the principles of the UN Charter, including state sovereignty and territorial integrity. Russias vetoes are expected to trigger a General Assembly meeting within ten days under the veto initiative.

Meanwhile, Russias amendmentsone introducing language on the root causes of the conflict and another removing all references to Russiaalso failed. The US abstained on all amendments, while China voted in favour of Russias proposal to address the root causes of the conflict and the E5 amendment calling for peace in line with the Charter. This reflects Chinas view that the conflicts origins are in part tied to broader issues, such as NATO expansion, as well as its firm commitment to the principle of state sovereignty.

With no amendments adopted, the Council proceeded to vote on the US text in its original form. The E5 abstained, while all other members voted in favour. There appears to have been speculation around whether France and the UK were considering voting against the resolution, which may have encouraged others not to support it. In such a scenario, if the draft had failed to garner the requisite nine or more votes for adoption, negative votes from France and the UK would not have constituted vetoes, which neither country has used since 1989, when these members, together with the US, blocked a draft resolution condemning the US intervention in Panama.

Ultimately, France and the UK abstained, apparently viewing the resolution as acceptable but flawed. While both voted against the Russian amendments, their negative votes did not constitute a veto, as the amendments failed to gain the necessary support for adoption. However, had Russias amendments secured enough votes for adoption, it seems that France and the UK may have considered using their veto.

The timing of the vote was also significant. It coincided with the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Washington for discussions on security guarantees for Ukraine and took place only days before UK Prime Minister Keir Starmers trip to Washington on 27 Februaryboth reflecting broader strategic calculations in Paris and Londons approach at the Security Council.

Implications on Security Council Dynamics

The proceedings marked a major shift in Ukraine-related diplomacy, exposing a deepening fracture among the P3. While the full repercussions remain to be seen, the effects are likely to extend well beyond the Ukraine dossier.

Relations among the P3 may deteriorate further as US-Russia talks progress. Should Washington and Moscow reach a bilateral deal on Ukraine, the implications for European security could be profound. A settlement that redraws borders or weakens NATOs commitments to Eastern Europe, for example, could validate long-standing fears of a new Yalta. Consequently, France and the UK may find themselves aligning with China, which has consistently emphasised that any settlement should be consistent with the UN Charter. In its 24 February explanation of vote, China stressed that Europe ought to play its part for peace, signalling that it sees European involvement as essential in any future negotiations.

For now, P3 divisions are likely to continue shaping the Councils engagement on Ukraine. France, as a penholder on humanitarian issues in Ukraine, is expected to push for regular Council discussions on humanitarian developments, as has been the practice for the last three years, while the US may prefer to avoid contentious meetings that risk derailing diplomatic efforts.

These divergences could be more visible if new Security Council resolutions on Ukraine are tabled. The long-standing reluctance to propose products on this issuebecause of Western Council members insistence on using condemnatory language against Russia and the near certainty of a Russian vetohas now been broken, and the precedent set by the recent vote could invite further minimalistic drafts aimed at securing the consent of all permanent members. Whether such texts succeed in forging genuine consensus or merely exacerbate existing tensions remains to be seen, but they underscore the shifting dynamics at play in the Councils evolving approach to the Ukrainian conflict.

Beyond Ukraine, US-Russia coordination could reshape European security debates at the UN, particularly on long-standing disputes in the Balkans, such as Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo. In this respect, attention is turning to Trumps trio for the BalkansRichard Grenell, now Special Presidential Envoy for Special Missions, who previously brokered economic agreements between Belgrade and Pristina; Rod Blagojevich, who has ties to the Serbian-American community and is rumoured as a possible candidate for US ambassador to Serbia; and Jared Kushner, who has business ventures in the region. Regional observers are closely monitoring the actions of this trio to assess potential shifts towards a more adaptable US policy in the Balkans. This could significantly weaken Europes position and reshape the Councils approach to these long-standing disputes.

Yet a US-Russia rapprochement could also create opportunities for cooperation on other conflicts. Russia has historically used the Security Council to challenge the US on Middle East issues like Gaza. However, at a 25 February Security Council briefing on the file, Russiadeparting from its usual rhetoricsaid in reference to the role played by the new US administration in securing the recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that its intervention at the final stage made it possible to achieve tangible results.

This suggests that a pragmatic thaw between Washington and Moscow could soften their respective stances in some diplomatic arenas. Whether this translates into substantive cooperation remains to be seen, but it could recalibrate multilateral diplomacy on key global crises where both powers hold influence. Agreement between the US and Russia in the past has helped achieve substantial progress on some files. For instance, in December 2015, after many months of deadlock over the Syria file, high-level US-Russia engagement secured the adoption of resolution 2254, that focused on a political solution to the Syrian crisis.

Despite these shifts, significant limits to a US-Russia partnership remain. One major flashpoint is Iran. Western countries continue to express deep concerns over Irans violations of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), its lack of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and its military support for both Middle Eastern proxies and Russia in Ukraine. By contrast, China and Russia remain strong backers of Tehran. This divide could resurface as the JCPOAs sunset provisions approach their expiration in October 2025, with Council members weighing whether to trigger the snapback mechanism to restore UN sanctions.

Moreover, while Trumps first presidency featured friendly rhetoric towards Russia, his administrations actions often contradicted this tone. In 2018, for example, although he invited Russia to rejoin the G7 and engaged in Syria deconfliction talks, he also expanded the European Deterrence Initiative by 41 percent and imposed sanctions on Russian oligarchs and officials. It remains possible that his second term will follow a similar pattern. While Trumps rhetoric on Ukraine has been favourable to Russia, key officialsincluding Vice President JD Vancehave suggested that military and economic tools remain on the table should Moscow not negotiate in good faith.

At the same time, the US decision to table a resolution competing with Ukraine and EU members at the General Assembly, and its unwillingness to negotiate the draft it brought to the Security Council, signals a shift from rhetoric to a more assertiveand potentially disruptivediplomatic style, one that is likely to have significant repercussions for the Security Councils work.

[1] 22 countries from the African Regional Group and 16 from the Asia-Pacific Regional Group that had previously voted in favour of the Ukrainian-EU text in 2023 either voted against, abstained, or did not participate in the vote this time.

[2] Article 12 stipulates that the General Assembly may not make recommendations on a dispute or situation in which the Security Council is actively exercising its functions under the Charter, unless the Council specifically requests it.

[3] This was in line with rule 33 (3) of the Councils provisional rules of procedure, which allows the Council to suspend a meeting to a certain day or hour.
MIDDLE EAST

Lebanon

Expected Council Action

In March, Council members expect to receive a briefing in consultations on the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1701. Adopted in 2006, resolution 1701 called for a cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The Secretary-Generals report, which is due on 11 March, will cover the period from 21 October 2024 to 20 February. Special Coordinator for Lebanon Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert and Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix are the anticipated briefers.

Council members will be following regional developments, including in Lebanon and Israel, and will assess whether additional Council action is required.

The mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expires on 31 August.

Key Recent Developments

A cessation-of-hostilities arrangement between Israel and Lebanon entered into effect on 27 November 2024 following more than 13 months of hostilities, primarily involving Israel and Hezbollah. The arrangement, which was brokered by the US and France, says that Israel will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets in the territory of Lebanon and that the Lebanese government will prevent Hezbollah and all other armed groups from conducting operations against Israel. Under the terms of the arrangement, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) will also dismantle unauthorised infrastructure and confiscate unauthorised arms, among other tasks. The arrangement outlines a 60-day deadline for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to withdraw south of the Blue Line and, in parallel, for the LAF to deploy to positions south of the Litani River. (The Blue Line is a withdrawal line set by the UN in 2000 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. While not representing an international border, the Blue Line acts in practice as a boundary between Lebanon and Israel in the absence of an agreed-upon border between the two states.)

According to Israeli media reports, also cited by Lebanese news outlets, the US bilaterally provided additional guarantees to Israel with respect to the ceasefire implementation, including recognising Israels right to respond to Hezbollah threats.

On 26 January, the day of the expiration of the 60-day period stipulated in the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement for the IDF withdrawal and LAF deployment, Israel and Lebanon agreed to an extension of the deadline until 18 February following concerns expressed by both parties that the respective withdrawal and deployment were progressing too slowly. Hours before the extension of the deadline, Israeli forces in several southern Lebanon locations opened fire on demonstrators who were demanding Israels withdrawal, some of whom were reportedly carrying Hezbollah flags. At least 22 people were killed and 124 were injured, including six women and an LAF soldier, according to an article by the Associated Press that cited Lebanese health officials.

On 9 January, the Lebanese Parliament elected former LAF Commander Joseph Aoun as President of the Republic, ending a prolonged political stalemate. On 13 January, Aoun designated Nawaf Salam, former President of the International Court of Justice, as Prime Minister. Salam announced the formation of a new government on 8 February.

In a 16 January presidential statement, the Security Council welcomed the election of Aoun and Salams designation. It also welcomed the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement, expressed concern about reported violations, and called for all violations to stop.

By mid-February, the IDF had withdrawn from areas in southern Lebanon broadly corresponding to Sector West of UNIFILs area of operations, where the LAF had deployed, often in coordination with UNIFIL. In areas in southern Lebanon that remained under Israeli control, the IDF continued to target Hezbollahs military assets. According to a 13 February statement by UN independent experts, during its operations, Israeli forces had also targeted civilians attempting to return to their homes, demolished housing, and destroyed crops and infrastructure with tanks, bulldozers and heavy weaponry.

On 14 February, a UNIFIL convoy transporting peacekeepers to Beirut airport was attacked, a vehicle set on fire, and several peacekeepers were injured. In a statement issued on the same day, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the attack and called for accountability. The attack took place following a decision by Lebanese authorities to revoke permission for two Iranian flights to land in Beirut. According to an article by the Associated Press, the decision came after the Israeli army issued a statement claiming that Iran was smuggling cash to Hezbollah via civilian flights, leading some in Lebanon to allege that their countrys authorities had caved in the face of a threat from Israel. A group of people aligned with Hezbollah who were protesting the decision along the airport road was reportedly involved in the attack. A Hezbollah official later denied the group had any involvement in the incident.

The incident occurred against the backdrop of Hezbollahs loss of military power and political influence in Lebanon following the war with Israel and the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, which has led to the loss of a key military supply route for Hezbollah from Iran through Syria.

On 18 February, the expiration date for the extended deadline for the IDF withdrawal and LAF deployment, the IDF withdrew from most areas under its control in southern Lebanon. It retained, however, a presence in five positions in Lebanese territory near the Blue Line. Announcing its decision regarding the five positions, the IDF reportedly said on 17 February that it will remain there until Israel is certain that Hezbollah will not return to the area south of the Litani River. In a joint statement on 18 February, Aoun, Salam, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stressed the urgent need for Israels full withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory and announced that they would appeal to the Security Council to compel Israels immediate withdrawal and to enforce resolution 1701.

During a media briefing on 18 February, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said that the LAF was continuing to deploy throughout southern Lebanon with UNIFILs support, and displaced communities were returning to their homes.

In an apparent reference to the IDFs decision to retain a presence in Lebanese territory, Hennis-Plasschaert and UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander Lieutenant General Aroldo Lazaro said in a statement, that [a]nother delay in the process of implementing the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement was not what they had hoped would happen, not least because it continues a violation of resolution 1701. The statement added, however, that the delay should not overshadow the tangible progress achieved since the cessation of hostilities came into force.

In an 18 February statement, France called on all parties to accept its proposal that UNIFIL, including the missions French contingent, deploys to the five positions to replace the IDF. At the time of writing, the proposal has apparently not been officially taken up. Analysts have observed that the IDFs presence in Lebanese territory could reinvigorate Hezbollahs rhetoric about the need for an armed movement in Lebanon to resist Israels encroachment.

The funeral of Hezbollahs former Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike in September 2024, took place on 23 February. In a recorded message played during the funeral, Hezbollahs Secretary-General Naim Qassem reportedly said that the resistance will continue based on new developments and the current period, while also stressing that it is now the responsibility of the state to ensure Israels withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

In January, Lebanese Judge Tarek Bitar resumed the investigation into the 4 August 2020 Beirut port explosion, which had been stalled for several years because of political interference and legal challenges.

Human Rights-Related Developments

In a 16 January statement addressing his recent visit to Syria and Lebanon, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk expressed solidarity with the people of both countries. He conveyed hopefulness about Lebanons future, noting signs of new beginnings despite immense challenges ahead, and accentuated the critical importance of the ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel. Turk offered the assistance of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to support the Lebanese authorities commitments to undertake reforms to strengthen the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary and efforts to hold to account those responsible for the Beirut port explosion. Among other things, he noted that Israeli military action in Lebanon caused wide-scale loss of civilian life, raising serious concerns about the respect for the principles of proportionality, distinction, and precaution. He also stressed the need for the ceasefire to transition into a durable peace and for a renewal of the social contract in Lebanon.

Women, Peace and Security

In a dialogue facilitated by UN Women during Guterres 16-19 January visit to Lebanon, womens rights activists and representatives of feminist civil society organisations emphasised the importance of Lebanons recovery, reconciliation and reconstruction efforts to be gender-responsive and inclusive. They also called for the implementation of policies that ensure womens equal participation in political decision-making processes, including municipal elections in May and parliamentary elections expected in 2026.

Key Issues and Options

Ensuring the full implementation and sustained adherence to the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah remains the Security Councils foremost immediate priority.

Council members could consider issuing a press or presidential statement that:

Urges all parties to fully implement the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement, resolution 1701, and the Security Councils previous relevant resolutions;

Demands the swift withdrawal of the IDF from all the positions it occupies in Lebanese territory and the prompt deployment of the LAF;

Expresses support for the French proposal to deploy UNIFIL troops to the five positions occupied by the IDF;

Calls on the international community to provide support to the LAF so that it can effectively implement its side of the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement and resolution 1701;

Stresses the importance of protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, guaranteeing the safety and security of UNIFIL peacekeepers, and fully adhering to international law; and

Encourages reforms to promote socioeconomic recovery.

Council Dynamics

Council members agree on the need for the cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah to hold and on the importance of guaranteeing safety and security for UNIFIL peacekeepers.

There are sharp differences in Council members views of Hezbollah. Some members distinguish between Hezbollahs political and military wings and have only designated its military wing as a terrorist organisation; other members, including the UK and the US, have listed Hezbollah in its entirety as a terrorist organisation. On the other hand, Russia sees Hezbollah as a legitimate socio-political force in Lebanon.

In December 2024 and January, Council members discussed the possibility of a Council visiting mission to Lebanon, spearheaded by Algeria. It appears that most members supported this proposal. The US, however, argued that a visit could undermine progress towards implementation of the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement, an assessment that was apparently not shared by any other Council member.

France is the penholder on Lebanon. The US chairs the mechanism tasked in the cessation-of-hostilities arrangement with monitoring, verifying, and assisting in ensuring enforcement of the commitments outlined in the arrangement. It is a reformulated version of the tripartite mechanism established following the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah, which consisted of representatives of UNIFIL, the IDF, and the LAF, and was chaired by UNIFIL. Under the terms of the cessation of hostilities, the revised mechanism also includes France and is hosted by UNIFIL.

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Overview

In March, Denmark will hold the presidency of the Security Council.

Denmark is expected to organise one signature event, an open debate on Ensuring adaptability in UN Peace Operations under the Maintenance of international peace and security agenda item. Denmarks Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lars Lkke Rasmussen, is expected to chair the meeting. The briefers may include Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and a civil society representative.

In March, the Security Council will hold its annual meeting on strengthening cooperation between the UN and the European Union (EU) under the agenda item Cooperation between the United Nations and regional and subregional organizations in maintaining international peace and security. EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas will brief.

African issues on the programme of work this month include:

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) , briefing and consultations on the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) with possible additional meetings depending on developments in eastern DRC; and

Sudan , briefing on the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee.

Several Middle Eastern issues will be discussed, including:

Afghanistan is the only Asian issue on the programme in March. The Council is expected to renew the mandate of the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and hold its quarterly meeting on the situation in the country.

While Haiti was not on the programme at the time of writing, the Council is expected to consider the Secretary-Generals 24 February letter containing a comprehensive assessment of the situation in Haiti and his strategic recommendations on the full range of options for UN support for the country.

Regarding non-proliferation issues, the chair of the 1540 Committee is expected to brief the Council about the committees activities. (Adopted in 2004, resolution 1540 aims to prevent non-state actors from obtaining access to weapons of mass destruction.)

As in past months, there are likely to be one or more meetings on Ukraine in March.

Meetings on other issues are possible, depending on developments.
Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 3. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Murat Nurtleu, and representatives of leading Moroccan companies discussed new opportunities for business cooperation, Trend reports.

As part of his official visit to the Kingdom of Morocco, Deputy Prime Minister  Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan Murat Nurtleu held a series of meetings with representatives of leading Moroccan companies operating in various sectors of the economy.

In the course of the meeting with the president of the "Zine Capital Invest" holding, Nuredin Zin, the opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, food production, and logistics were discussed.

Negotiations with the CEO of "Alomra Group International," Driss Benomar, were focused on the prospects of implementing innovative solutions in the field of security.

In a meeting with the president of "Cadex Group," Javad Yousefi, cooperation in the area of technical maintenance of mining and metallurgical enterprises was discussed.

A meeting was also held with the founder of "Anfa Realities" company, Younes Essassi, during which joint projects in construction were discussed.

The minister also emphasized that the Government of Kazakhstan will provide all necessary support for the successful implementation of these initiatives and projects, which will contribute to strengthening economic and investment ties with Morocco.

Meanwhile, bilateral trade between the two countries has grown significantly: last year it increased by 70 percent to $274 million.
Status Update since our February Forecast

The Middle East, including the Palestinian Question

On 25 February, the Security Council held its regular monthly briefing and closed consultations on The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question (MEPQ) (S/PV.9868). Sigrid Kaag briefed in her capacity as Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process ad interim. Two civil society representatives also briefed: Daniel Levy, President of the US/Middle East Projecta non-profit policy institute focusing on the Israeli-Palestinian conflictand Noa Argamani, a former Israeli hostage who had been held in Gaza.

South Sudan

On 5 February, the Security Council held a briefing, followed by consultations, to discuss the situation in South Sudan (S/PV.9855) based on the Secretary-Generals latest report (S/2025/54) published on 24 January. Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan and Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), Nicholas Haysom; Major General Charles Tai Gituai, Interim Chairperson of the Reconstituted Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission; and Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director, Community Empowerment for Progress Organization briefed.

UNRCCA (Central Asia)

On 6 February, Council members received a briefing in consultations on the work of the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) from Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNRCCA Kaha Imnadze.

Counter-Terrorism

On 10 February, the Security Council held a briefing on the Secretary-Generals 20th biannual strategic-level report (S/2025/72) on the threat posed by the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Daesh) (S/PV.9856). Under-Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism and Head of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) Vladimir Voronkov and Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) Natalia Gherman briefed.

Ukraine

On 17 February, the Security Council convened for a briefing on Ukraine under the Threats to international peace and security agenda item (S/PV.9859). Russia requested the meeting to mark the tenth anniversary of the Security Councils adoption of resolution 2202 of 17 February 2015, which endorsed the Package of Measures for the Implementation of the Minsk Agreements, also known as the Minsk II agreement, signed on 12 February 2015. The briefers were Assistant Secretary-General for Europe, Central Asia and the Americas Miroslav Jenca and musician and Pink Floyd co-founder Roger Waters. Germany and Ukraine participated under rule 37 of the Councils provisional rules of procedure.

On 24 February, the Council voted on a draft resolution on Ukraine authored by the US (S/PV.9866). Prior to the vote, Council members Denmark, France, Greece, and the UK requested closed consultations to discuss the text. Following the consultations, France, on behalf of these three other members, then proposed a procedural vote to postpone the session until the following afternoon (25 February), citing rule 33 of the Councils provisional rules of procedure. The motion was not adopted because it did not garner the requisite votesreceiving six votes in favour (China, Denmark, France, Greece, Slovenia, and the UK), three against (Panama, Somalia, and the US), and six abstentions (Algeria, Guyana, Pakistan, the Republic of Korea, Russia, and Sierra Leone).

The US-authored draft text, which was adopted as resolution 2774, urges a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine and implores a swift end to the conflict between the two countries. The resolution received ten votes in favour and five abstentions (Denmark, France, Greece, Slovenia, and the UK). Prior to this vote, the Council considered five draft amendments to the text: three proposed by the European Council members (E5)Denmark, France, Greece, Slovenia, and the UKand two proposed by Russia. None of these were adopted.

On 24 February, the Council also convened for a high-level briefing on Ukraine (S/PV.9867). The meeting was requested by Ukrainesupported by Denmark, France, Greece, Panama, the Republic of Korea, Slovenia, the UK, and the USto mark the third anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022. Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo briefed the Council. Ukraine and several regional countries (Czechia, Finland, Latvia, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, and Spain) participated under rule 37 of the Councils provisional rules of procedure.

Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance

On 18 and 20 February, the Security Council held a ministerial-level open debate on Practicing Multilateralism, Reforming and Improving Global Governance under the Maintenance of international peace and security agenda item (S/PV.9861 and Resumption I and II). Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi chaired the meeting, which was the signature event of Chinas Council presidency. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres briefed.

Libya

On 19 February, the Security Council held an open briefing on Libya (S/PV.9862). Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo briefed on the latest political, security, and humanitarian developments in the country. Pending the finalisation of the discussion on the allocation of chairs of subsidiary bodies, China, in its capacity as Security Council president in February and in line with the understanding reached among Council members, briefed on the work of the 1970 Libya Sanctions Committee. Libya participated in the meeting under rule 37 of the Councils provisional rules of procedure.

Central African Republic

On 20 February, the Security Council held a briefing on the situation in the Central African Republic (CAR) (S/PV.9864). Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the CAR and Head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) Valentine Rugwabiza briefed on the Secretary-Generals report on MINUSCA, which was published on 14 February (S/2025/97).

DPRK (North Korea)

On 26 February, Council members met in closed consultations to discuss the 90-day report on the work of the 1718 Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) Sanctions Committee. Ordinarily, the Chair of the Committee briefs Council members on the report. However, since the Chair had not yet been appointed, China delivered the report as the president of the Security Council in February.

Peace Operations

On 27 February, the Security Council received its annual briefing from the heads of police components of UN peace operations (S/PV.9870). Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix; UN Police Adviser Commissioner Faisal Shahkar; General Christophe Kabango Bizimungu, the Police Commissioner for the UN Multidimensional Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA); and Chief Superintendent Mingzhu Xu, Senior Police Advisor for the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP), briefed.

Somalia

On 28 February, the Council adopted resolution 2775, constituting a technical rollover until 3 March of the sanctions measures and other relevant provisions under the 2713 Al-Shabaab sanctions regime before their expiration on that date. This rollover was agreed upon pending the finalisation of Council negotiations on the extension of the sanctions regime and the mandate renewal of the Panel of Experts assisting the 2713 Al-Shabaab Sanctions Committee.
AFRICA

Sudan

Expected Council Action

In March, the Council is expected to hold a briefing on the work of the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee. One or more additional meetings on Sudan could be held in March depending on developments, given the unstable situation in the country.

Key Recent Developments

Heavy fighting continues in Sudan between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) (led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of the Sudanese Transitional Sovereign Council) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Since launching its offensive in late September 2024, the SAF has made progress in reclaiming strategic locations in Khartoum and surrounding areas from the RSF. The SAF has also intensified its military operations in other parts of the country, including Al Jazira and Sennar states, achieving notable successes. On 11 January, the SAF recaptured Wad Madani, the capital of Al Jazira and a strategically significant city south of Khartoum, located at the crossroads of key supply routes connecting several states. On 23 February, the SAF announced that it had broken the RSFs siege of El-Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state and an important commercial and transportation centre, and that it had retaken Al-Qutaynah city, which is located roughly 73 kilometres south of Khartoum.

On 9 February, Sudans Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a press statement indicating that it was initiating a road map to pave the way for an inclusive political process that will culminate in holding free and fair elections and include the establishment of an all-inclusive national dialogue and a technocratic cabinet.

On 22 February, the Rapid Support Forces signed a political charter in Nairobi with affiliated armed groups and other anti-government political actors to establish a parallel government in the territories it controls in Sudan. In a 24 February statement attributable to his spokesperson, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern about the political charter, maintaining that it constitutes a further escalation in the conflict[that] deepens the fragmentation of the country and risks further entrenching the crisis. He further asserted that preserving Sudans unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity remains key for a sustainable resolution of the conflict and the long-term stability of the country and the wider region.

The RSF has continued its siege of El-Fasher in North Darfur. Fighting in and around the Zamzam camp for internally displaced people, which is located near El-Fasher and is home to nearly 500,000 people, has been particularly intense. On 25 February, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF, or Doctors Without Borders) announced that it was forced to halt its operations in the Zamzam camp, saying that the current escalation of attacks and fighting is making it impossible for MSF to continue providing medical assistance in such dangerous conditions, notwithstanding the widespread starvation and immense humanitarian needs in the IDP camp.

On 26 February, Director of the Operations and Advocacy Division at the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) Edem Wosornu briefed the Council in the open chamber. She gave a dire assessment of the humanitarian situation in Sudan: 12 million people are currently displaced; 24.6 million people are experiencing acute hunger; health services have collapsed; and children are being deprived of formal education. Wosornu called on the Council to take immediate action to protect civilians in Sudan and ensure that international humanitarian law is adhered to by the parties. She also called for funds to support the humanitarian needs of Sudan, underscoring that the scale of Sudans needs is unprecedented and requires an equally unprecedented mobilization of international support.

Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General for Sudan Ramtane Lamamra briefed members in the closed consultations that followed Wosornus briefing. During the consultations, Lamamra apparently underscored the need for a political solution to the conflict, noting the need for coordinated international and regional efforts in this regard. He also highlighted the need for the protection of civilians and unfettered humanitarian access.

On 23 December 2024, Council members received the final report of the Panel of Experts assisting the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee, which had not been published at the time of writing. At the time of writing, the appointment of subsidiary body chairs had not been finalised among Council members, preventing the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee from discussing the findings and recommendations of the Panel of Experts 20 December 2024 final report. As a matter of practice, final reports are published only after being discussed in a committee meeting.

The report apparently provides an account of various aspects of the conflict, including its dynamics, the financing of the armed groups, the humanitarian impact and violations of international humanitarian law, recruitment patterns of the warring parties, the proliferation of weapons and violations of the sanctions regime, and the conflicts impact on regional security and stability, among other things.

On 17 February, the Security Council adopted resolution 2772 extending the mandate of the Panel of Experts (PoE) assisting the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee until 12 March 2026.

Key Issues and Options

A key issue is for members related to sanctions to build trust and develop a common understanding on how to most effectively manage the Sudan sanctions regime. Council members may wish to have a substantive discussion in an informal meeting about the sanctions measures, including, but not limited to, the geographic scope of the sanctions (which are currently limited to Darfur), the designation criteria, and potential adjustments to the sanctions measures.

An overarching issue for the Council remains how to support efforts to achieve a sustainable ceasefire across Sudan. As hostilities persist, mediation efforts have consistently failed to achieve any meaningful breakthroughs.

To address the ongoing crisis, the Council could consider adopting a product that:

Strongly condemns the ongoing violence across the country and indiscriminate attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure;

Demands an immediate and permanent cessation of hostilities;

Reiterates the Councils demand that the RSF halt its siege of El Fasher;

Expresses deep concern about the dire humanitarian situation and urges the parties to the conflict to ensure rapid, safe, unhindered and sustained humanitarian access for the delivery of life-saving assistance for civilians in need;

Demands that all parties to the conflict ensure the protection of civilians, including by fully implementing the 11 May 2023 Jeddah declaration; and

Builds on the Secretary-Generals recommendations for the protection of civilians, contained in his 21 October 2024 report, and expresses support for establishing a monitoring and verification mechanism in case of a ceasefire and to ensure compliance with the Jeddah declaration.

Council Dynamics

Several Council members have emphasised the need for a ceasefire, unfettered humanitarian access, respect for international humanitarian law, and the importance of protecting civilians in the conflict. In the 26 February Council meeting, many members expressed concern about the RSFs political declaration calling for a parallel government in Sudan. Algeria, speaking on behalf of the A3 Plus (Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Guyana) said this declaration was detrimental to peace, calling it a dangerous step that fuels further fragmentation of Sudan. In addition, some members, such as Algeria (on behalf of the A3 plus) and Russia, welcomed the roadmap announced by the Sudan government during the meeting. Although some members, such as the US and UK, are highly critical of both the SAF and the RSF for violating international law in the conflict, members such as China and Russia tend to be more sympathetic to the Burhan-led government, underscoring its sovereign authority and its efforts to protect civilians and coordinate the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The Sudanese government has criticised Kenya for hosting an RSF meeting on 18 February and the subsequent signing ceremony on 22 February. Critics have suggested that the Kenyan governments decision to provide a venue for the RSF may have been influenced by a $1.5 billion loan agreement that it is expected to receive from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which has reportedly provided military support to the RSF during the conflict.

Council members have differing views on the use of sanctions in Sudan. This was reflected during the negotiations on resolution 2772 of 17 February. Similar to 2024, the most contentious part of the negotiations was the duration of the mandate. The A3 plustogether with China, Russia, and Pakistansupported a request by Sudan to extend the Panels mandate for six months, in order to align its mandate with the renewal of the 1591 Sudan sanctions regime, which occurs in September. While the mandate was ultimately renewed for one year, the resolution was not unanimously adopted, as China and Russia both abstained.

The US is the penholder on Sudan sanctions, while the UK is the penholder on Sudan more broadly.

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MIDDLE EAST

Syria

Expected Council Action

In March, the Council expects to hold two meetings on Syria: one on political and humanitarian issues, and another on the chemical weapons track.

Key Recent Developments

Since the December 2024 ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, led by the Security Council-listed terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Syrias caretaker authorities have been focused on unifying Syria, building state structures, and reviving the countrys struggling economy. While trying to deal with a multitude of challenges due to years of conflict, including on the security and humanitarian fronts, the caretaker authorities have announced steps toward a transitional process that will lead to elections in four to five years.

Following the 29 January declaration in which HTS leader Ahmed al-Sharaa was named Syrias interim president, the caretaker leadership pledged to create an inclusive transitional government representing Syrias diversity. On 12 February, Sharaa announced the establishment of the Preparatory Committee for the National Dialogue Conference. The committee, which is made up of five men and two women from diverse backgrounds (including law, governance, civil society, and political science), reportedly conducted consultations across various Syrian provinces leading up to the 25 February National Dialogue Conference, which concluded with a final statement laying the groundwork for a new constitution. Reportedly, the statement inter alia called for a temporary constitutional declaration, the preservation of Syrian unity and sovereignty, respect for human rights, including support for the role of women in all fields, advancing transitional justice and accountability, and economic development policies. During the conference, Sharaa also announced the formation of a transitional justice body. The conference, however, was met with some criticism for being hastily organised and underrepresented, raising questions about how comprehensive it was.

On 14 February, at a conference on Syria in Paris, caretaker foreign minister Assad al-Shaibani reiterated the pledge that the new Syrian government, scheduled to take office on 1 March, would reflect the diversity of the country. During the conference, multiple countries pledged to help rebuild Syria and signed a declaration stating their intent to work together to ensure the success of the post-Assad transition in the framework of a process that must be Syrian-led. Syria, Lebanon, Turkiye, multiple European nations (including France, Germany, Greece, and Italy), and G7 members Canada, Japan, and the UK signed the declaration. The US did not sign it, reportedly because Washington has yet to form its policy regarding the new Syrian authorities and may have reservations about Sharaa and HTS, both under US sanctions.

Briefing the Council on 12 February, UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir O. Pedersen noted that the roadmap being laid out by the caretaker leadership shows considerable overlap with the key principles of resolution 2254. (Adopted on 18 December 2015, resolution 2254 focused on a political solution to the Syria crisis.) Pedersen informed the Council that the caretaker authorities have committed to consulting with the UN on all steps of a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition and expressed the hope that this commitment would translate into follow-up action. (For more information, see our 11 February Whats in Blue story.)

The security landscape in Syria remains fragmented, with many armed groups still maintaining various levels of autonomy. In his 12 February briefing, Pedersen warned that the situation in northeastern Syria is extremely concerning with daily front-line hostilities impacting civilians. Clashes between the Turkish forces and the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) forces on the one hand and the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on the other continue. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, more than 627 people have been killed in Syria, including 56 civilians, since 12 December 2024.

In an apparent breakthrough in negotiations between Syrias caretaker authorities and the SDF, the commander of the SDFs Northern Brigade announced on 18 February that an agreement had been reached to integrate their forces into the Syrian governments army. One of the key elements of the agreement reportedly includes the departure of foreign fighters linked with the Kurdistan Workers Party, which Turkiye considers a terrorist organisation. Subsequent statements from the SDF, however, did not corroborate the announcement, as negotiations are reportedly still facing disagreements on how the SDFs forces would be integrated into the national army.

Following Assads ouster, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) positioned forces within the demilitarised buffer zone in the Golan, citing security risks. According to media reports, Israel has built at least seven new military outposts in the demilitarised buffer zonewhich was established by the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement between Israel and Syriasince December 2024, including in Syrian Mount Hermon. Although Israel had initially indicated that its incursions into the area would be temporary, Defence Minister Israel Katz said on 28 January that the IDF would remain in the buffer zone indefinitely. The IDFs presence violates the 1974 Agreement, and Special Envoy Pedersen has called on Israel to withdraw. Commenting on Israels presence in the buffer zone, Sharaa has emphasised that Syria remains committed to the 1974 Agreement and is ready to welcome UN forces to restore conditions to their prior state. (For more information, see the brief on the UN Disengagement Observer Force [UNDOF] in our March 2025 Monthly Forecast.)

On 24 February, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu further demanded the complete demilitarisation of southern Syria and affirmed that Israel would not allow any HTS or Syrian forces to enter the area south of Damascus. Following reported Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria on 25 February, Katz stressed that any attempt by the Syrian regime forces and the countrys terrorist organizations to establish themselves in the security zone in southern Syria  will be met with fire. That same day, the statement adopted at the Syrian National Dialogue Conference condemned Israels infiltration into Syrian territory as a blatant violation of Syrias sovereignty, demanded a complete withdrawal, and rejected Netanyahus statements referring to them as provocative.

On 8 February, Director-General of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) Fernando Arias visited Syria and met with Syrian caretaker authorities to discuss the next steps towards the elimination of Syrias chemical weapons. The OPCW described the meetings as long, productive and very open, with an in-depth exchange of information, which will serve as a basis to reach tangible results and break the stalemate that has lasted for over eleven years. The Director-General presented the caretaker authorities with a 9-point Action Plan for Syria. On 24 February, the OPCW published its monthly report on the implementation of resolution 2118 of 27 September 2013, which required the verification and destruction of Syrias chemical weapons stockpiles.

Human Rights-Related Developments

On 27 January, the UN Human Rights Council-mandated Commission of Inquiry (COI) on Syria published a comprehensive report that uncovered the depth of the Assad regimes use of arbitrary detention to suppress public dissent during the first decade of the Syrian war. Drawing on extensive investigations since the conflicts start, Web of Agony: Arbitrary Detention, Torture, and Ill-Treatment in the Syrian Arab Republic based its findings on more than 2,000 witness testimonies, including over 550 interviews with survivors of torture. This is the Commissions most extensive analysis to date of detention-related violations by the former regime.

Paulo Sergio Pinheiro, Chair of the Commission, expressed hope that such findings would help end impunity following patterns of abuseunderscoring that they stand at a critical juncture wherein the caretaker government and future Syrian authorities can now ensure these crimes are never repeated. The report furthermore stressed the urgent need for decisive action to safeguard evidence and crime sites, including mass graves, until they can be examined by experts.

Women, Peace and Security

In an update on the situation of women in Syria, the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security highlighted that, despite the ouster of Assad in December 2024, significant challenges remain in achieving peace, stability, and respect for human rights in the country. Spotlighting the humanitarian crisis in Syria, the update noted that although women-led and womens rights organisations have been instrumental to the humanitarian response, they continue to face chronic underfunding and operating restrictions. Among other recommendations, the NGO Working Group on Women, Peace and Security urged the Security Council to prioritise the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of diverse women in a Syrian-owned and Syrian-led political transition, and demand respect by all parties for the human rights of diverse women and girls. It also urged the Council to call on UN member states to fund the humanitarian response in Syria and provide direct, flexible and consistent funding to local women-led organisations.

Key Issues and Options

The most pressing issue before the Council remains how to ensure a credible, transparent, and inclusive political process, guided by the principles of resolution 2254, that can prioritise the needs and aspirations of all Syrians, prevent fragmentation of the country, support the formation of credible state institutions, and establish a non-sectarian and representative governance structure.

In the event of the formation of a credible Syrian caretaker government in March, the Council could consider issuing a presidential statement welcoming the step and expressing support for a Syrian-led inclusive, transparent and credible political transition, in the spirit of the key principles of resolution 2254. The statement could also reaffirm the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and reinforce the Councils backing for the UN to have a role in the transitional process.

In light of recent reports about concerns that extrajudicial and revenge killings are increasing, the Council could also consider including elements in the statement that call on the Syrian caretaker authorities to prioritise transitional justice, encourage cooperation with independent investigative mechanisms, and urge international support for the caretaker authorities in preventing the resurgence of terrorism in Syria.

Another key issue is how to alleviate the growing humanitarian needs throughout the country and ensure suitable conditions for the safe return of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons. During her Council briefing on 12 February, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Joyce Msuya outlined the countrys immense humanitarian crisis and called for generous funding pledges in the face of shortfalls impacting life-saving aid and access to essential services. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi has similarly appealed to the international community to help support hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees to return to their homes, rebuild their lives, and reduce poverty. Council members could consider calling for an international conference to mobilise support for Syria, including through securing additional funding for a humanitarian response and addressing key issues such as economic development and reconstruction.

The Council could request the UN Refugees Agency (UNHCR) to brief on the humanitarian challenges of repatriating Syrian refugees. Council members could also encourage UN member states to support the OCHAs humanitarian response plan for Syria in the Councils monthly meetings on the file.

Council and Wider Dynamics

While there is acknowledgement of the positive messaging from the authorities in Damascus on a range of issues, including governance, many countries are likely to evaluate their stance and support based on the authorities concrete actions and implementation of commitments in the months ahead.

Key regional and international stakeholders, including several Council members, have held high-level meetings with the caretaker leadership. French President Emmanuel Macron has reportedly invited Sharaa to visit Paris, and Shaibani similarly received an invitation to Brussels from the EUs High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President Kaja Kallas. This shows a clear willingness to constructively engage with the interim leadership on the part of key European powers, which may sense an opportunity to enhance their relationship with Syria in the wake of significantly reduced Iranian and Russian influence.

Russia, which had maintained a significant military presence in the country over the years and was a staunch ally of the Assad government, has recently also bolstered its efforts to engage with the new caretaker authorities, including through a reported phone call between Sharaa and Russian President Vladimir Putin on 12 February. Moscow may be seeking to retain its air base in Hmeimim and naval base in Tartous, which afford it strategic access to the Mediterranean. Furthermore, according to media reports, Syrias central bank received a consignment of Syrian currency from Russia on 14 February.

Meanwhile Washington, under the new Trump administration, has yet to clarify its policy or approach to Syrias caretaker authorities. In early February, Sharaa said he had not had any contact with the Trump administration. A recent media report has indicated that Washington has expressed interest in pulling US troops out of northeast Syria. In a 14 February statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio vaguely referred to the need to pursue an opportunity to create stability in Syria, and during the 12 February Council meeting on Syria, the US Ambassador said that Rubio has underscored the need to prevent Syria from becoming a safe haven for terrorism.

Council members seem to be in agreement with regard to a credible, transparent and inclusive transitional process, but there may be divergences related to the question of sanctions. The European Union (EU) lifted sanctions on 24 February impacting Syrias oil, gas, electricity and transport sectors as part of its effort to support Syrias transition, economic recovery and reconstruction. According to the EUs High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, the sanctions relief will be contingent on a political transition that is inclusive and considers all of Syrias different groups. At the beginning of January the US, under the Biden administration, had eased some restrictions on humanitarian aid but did not lift sanctions. There may also be differences over Israels presence in the Golan Heights and its military activities in Syrian territory.

Council members have also displayed starkly different views over the years on a range of issues related to the chemical weapons track, including responsibility for the use of chemical weapons in Syria, the credibility of the work of the OPCW, and numerous procedural aspects of the OPCWs decision-making bodies. Several members have consistently expressed support for the OPCWs work, maintaining that it is credible and essential, but other members, such as China and Russia, have claimed that its work is biased and politicised. It remains unclear how the new realities on the ground will affect the work of the OPCW and the dynamics in the Council.

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PEACEMAKING, PEACEKEEPING AND PEACEBUILDING

UN Peacekeeping

Expected Council Action

In March, the Security Council will hold a high-level open debate on Ensuring adaptability in UN Peace Operationsresponding to realities. Denmarks Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lars Lkke Rasmussen, will chair the meeting, which is a signature event of Denmarks Council presidency this month. The briefers may include Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and a civil society representative.

Key Recent Developments

The future of UN peace operations has been a key topic of discussion in recent years, particularly with the drawdown and departure of several UN peacekeeping operations and special political missions. The abrupt departure of MINUSMA in 2023 sent shockwaves through the UN system, followed by the exit of the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) in February 2024. The UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) is set to leave the country by the end of this year. Similarly, the UN Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), which replaced the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) in November 2024, is expected to transfer responsibilities to the UN country team by October 2026 and phase out. Additionally, the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), one of the remaining large UN multidimensional peacekeeping operations, is implementing a disengagement plan agreed upon with the Congolese government in November 2023.

In light of these developments, discussions surrounding the drawdown, reconfiguration, and termination of UN peace operations have taken on increased importance and urgency. The Secretary-Generals A New Agenda for Peace emphasised that [e]xit strategies and transitions from peace operations need to be planned early and in an integrated and iterative manner to achieve successful mission drawdowns and ensure that gains are consolidated and the risk of relapse into conflict or escalation is minimized. In this context, the UN Transitions Project, which was initiated in 2014 with the involvement of relevant UN departments and entities to provide coherent support for transition planning and management, is revising its existing guidance, policies, and mechanisms.

Beyond issues of drawdown, reconfiguration, and termination, the future of UN peace operations was also a key focus during the Summit of the Future in September 2024. In this regard, member states adopted the Pact for the Future, the outcome document of the summit, which, among other things, requested the Secretary-General to: undertake a review of the future of all forms of United Nations peace operations, taking into account lessons learned from previous and ongoing reform processes, and provide strategic and action-oriented recommendations for the consideration of Member States on how the United Nations toolbox can be adapted to meet evolving needs, allowing for more agile, tailored responses to existing, emerging, and future challenges.

In November 2024, the Department of Peace Operations (DPO) released an independent study that it commissioned, titled, Future of Peacekeeping, New Models, and Related Capabilities. The study was conducted by Wane; Paul D. Williams, Professor of International Affairs at the Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University; and Ai Kihara-Hunt, Professor at the Graduate Program on Human Security, the University of Tokyo. The study presents 30 different models for future peacekeeping, encompassing a wide range of traditional and new tasks. It is now expected to inform discussions at the next Peacekeeping Ministerial, which will be hosted by Germany in May.

These discussions about transitions and the future of UN peace operations are also closely tied to the peacebuilding and the sustaining peace agenda. The upcoming review of the UN peacebuilding architecture, set to take place this year, holds particular significance in this context. (For background, see the In Hindsight in our February Monthly Forecast.) Conducted every five years, the review aims to strengthen global peacebuilding efforts. The Pact for the Future, adopted by world leaders in September 2024 as the outcome of the Summit of the Future, reaffirms member states commitment to strengthening the Peacebuilding Commission through the 2025 review of the peacebuilding architecture to bring a more strategic approach and greater coherence and impact to national and international peacebuilding and sustaining peace efforts.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role of regional peace support operations in carrying out peace enforcement or counter-terrorism operations. The adoption of resolution 2719 on 21 December 2023, which addresses the financing of African Union (AU)-led peace support operations (AUPSOs), has provided renewed momentum to this emerging trend. The UN and the AU have been consulting on the implementation of this landmark resolution and developed a joint AU-UN roadmap to implement resolution 2719, which was adopted during the UN-AU annual high-level conference in Addis Ababa in October 2024. Discussions are also ongoing about potential cases to be considered by the Security Council under resolution 2719, with Somalia serving as the first test case. On 27 December 2024, the Security Council adopted resolution 2767, authorising the deployment of the AU Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which replaces the AU Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), whose mandate was terminated. The Security Council is expected to decide on the financing of AUSSOM later this year.

Key Issues and Options

How to adapt peace operations in a rapidly changing conflict landscape is a key issue for the Council; The March open debate offers member states an opportunity to engage on this vital and topical issue and should provide an overview of their perspectives in the lead-up to the Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin, the review of peace operations requested in the Pact for the Future, and the 2025 review of the UN peacebuilding architecture.

A related issue is how the Council can shape the future of UN peace operations. One option is for Council members to have a series of thematic debates this year aimed at developing their ideas around the future of peacekeeping. There also appears to be a lack of clarity regarding the Secretary-Generals approach to conducting the review, with relevant departments in the Secretariat holding differing views on the process. Similar to DPO, the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs seems to be planning a separate study, specifically focusing on special political missions. Members could ask the Secretary-General to provide regular updates on the review during consultations or at their monthly lunches with him.

In discussing the future of peace operations, a key issue for Council members is how to better prepare to support peace operations across the full peace continuum while remaining agile and flexible in response to changing security situations. An option would be to request the Working Group on Peacekeeping to discuss what the Council can do to achieve this objective.

The Council could also adopt a presidential statement highlighting the pertinent action points raised during the debate that could be used as inputs to the peace operations review.

Council and Wider Dynamics

Peace operations remain a crucial tool for the Security Council in fulfilling its primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Shifting geopolitical dynamics and the evolving nature of conflict, however, have presented significant challenges to peacekeeping operations. Additionally, growing frustration among host countries and communities over the perceived ineffectiveness of UN peace operations has further complicated the operating environment.

Discussions about the peacekeeping budget are expected to become more complex with the return of the Trump administration. Based on past experience, this could lead to calls for a reduction and eventual exit of UN peacekeeping operations, pushing them to achieve more with fewer resources. In this context, the US may use the open debate to clarify its policy approach to peacekeeping operations.

The US may also clarify its position on the implementation of resolution 2719 and the upcoming discussions on the financing of AUSSOM. The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman, Senator James Risch, recently made it clear that resolution 2719 should not be used to fund AUSSOM, arguing that doing so would lock the US into perpetual funding through its dues to the UN, which he stated would be a disservice to the American taxpayer. In 2023, the three African members known as the A3 (then Gabon, Ghana, and Mozambique) played a pivotal role in spearheading the adoption of resolution 2719. However, it was difficult for the A3 Plus Grouping (then Algeria, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, and Guyana) to secure a clear commitment for the financing of AUSSOM under resolution 2719 during the negotiations in December 2024. This could potentially change with Somalia, the host country, being part of the A3 Plus grouping this year.

This year, three elected membersDenmark, Pakistan, and the Republic of Koreaseem eager to promote discussions on peacekeeping within the Council. Pakistan, as one of the top five troop-contributing countries to UN peacekeeping, has a strong interest in the matter. The Republic of Korea is also expected to continue chairing the Security Council Working Group on Peacekeeping Operations in 2025, pending the finalisation of the appointment of chairs for subsidiary bodies.

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UNDOF (Golan)

Expected Council Action

In March, Council members will hold the quarterly consultations on the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan.

UNDOFs mandate, which is typically renewed every six months, expires on 30 June 2025.

Background and Key Recent Developments

UNDOF was established following the conclusion of the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement (the 1974 agreement) between Israel and Syria, which ended the Yom Kippur War. Its mandate is to maintain the ceasefire between the parties and supervise the disengagement of Israeli and Syrian forces, as well as the areas of separation (a demilitarised buffer zone) and limitation (where Israeli and Syrian troops and equipment are restricted) in the Golan.

On 20 December 2024, the Security Council unanimously adopted resolution 2766, renewing UNDOFs mandate for another six months. The mandate renewal came shortly after Israeli troops entered the demilitarised zone following the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad earlier that month and a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declaring that the disengagement agreement had collapsed. A 13 December UNDOF press statement confirmed a significant increase in Israel Defence Forces (IDF) movements within the area of separation and along the ceasefire line in direct violation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.

The Secretary-Generals most recent report on UNDOFs activities, dated 2 December 2024, noted that the ceasefire between Israel and Syria generally held during the reporting period of 21 August to 18 November 2024. It raised concerns, however, that violations of the 1974 agreement persisted at a time of heightened tensions and escalation in the region. The report preceded Assads ouster and the Israeli deployments into the buffer zone. The upcoming UNDOF report, due 12 March, is expected to cover these developments.

Israel has cited security concerns, including the need to protect residents in northern Israel, as the reason for its operations within the buffer zone. Although Israel had initially indicated that its presence in the area would be temporary, Defence Minister Israel Katz said on 28 January that the IDF would remain in the buffer zone indefinitely. During a 16 February meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Netanyahu spoke of preventing Iran from establishing a new terror front near the Golan Heights, stressing that if any other force in Syria today believes that Israel will permit other hostile forces to use Syria as a base of operations against us, they are gravely mistaken. Israel will act to prevent any threat from emerging near our border in southwest Syria.

Commenting on Israels presence in the buffer zone, Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has emphasised that Syria remains committed to the 1974 agreement and is ready to welcome UN forces to restore conditions to their prior state. On 24 February, Netanyahu raised demands for the complete demilitarisation of southern Syria and affirmed that Israel would not allow any Hayat Tahrir al-Shamthe Security Council-listed terrorist group which led Assads ousteror Syrian forces to enter the area south of Damascus. Following reported Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria on 25 February, Katz stressed that any attempt by the Syrian regime forces and the countrys terrorist organizations to establish themselves in the security zone in southern Syria  will be met with fire.

Satellite images published in Haaretz have revealed that the IDF has built at least seven new outposts in the area of separation since Decemberincluding on Mount Hermon, where UNDOF maintains the UNs highest elevation permanently staffed position. Residents in the Golan have reportedly said that Israeli soldiers have prevented them from accessing their own homes, displaced residents, raided houses, and fired upon protesters demonstrating against the IDFs presence, raising fears of occupation. Concerns have also been raised regarding locals access to the Al-Mantara Dam, which is a vital water source for the region.

On 17 January, the Security Council held a briefing on UNDOF and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Russia requested the meeting to address the latest developments in the respective areas of operations. Head of the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO) Major General Patrick Gauchat, who was also Interim Head of UNDOF at the time, briefed the Council on how UNDOFs operations have been impacted. He confirmed that the IDF remained present in the area of separation, carrying out construction work and setting up communications equipment, while also highlighting that UNDOFs operational movements in the area of separation have been affected by their presence. Gauchat also informed the Council that local residents appealed to UNDOF for assistance regarding disruptive IDF actions in their communities, including roadblocks, damage to roads, and searches in villages. He added that the UNDOF was liaising with the IDF and Israels Ministry of Foreign Affairs on these issues, and there had been positive exchanges and progress in this regard.

On 11 December 2024, the Secretary-General announced the appointment of Major General Anita Asmah of Ghana as Head of Mission and Force Commander of UNDOF.

Key Issues and Options

In light of the significant shift in security dynamics in the Golan and increased challenges for UNDOF, a key issue for the Council is how to address ongoing violations of the 1974 agreement and obstructions preventing the mission from carrying out its mandate.

One option is to hold an informal interactive dialogue with key actors so that Council members can learn more about the extent of the IDFs presence in the area of separation and how it is impacting the peacekeepers, including their safety, security, and freedom of movement. Council members may be interested in hearing more about the level of liaison among UNDOF, the Israeli authorities, and the Syrian caretaker authorities.

An issue for the Council is that the significant Israeli presence in the buffer zone could pose the risk of an escalation between the parties that might imperil the ceasefire between Israel and Syria. Members may consider issuing a press statement urging the parties to uphold international law and their obligations under the 1974 agreement, underscoring that there should be no military forces or activities in the area of separation, other than those of UNDOF. The statement could also express concern over risks posed to local civilian populations by violations of the 1974 agreement and call upon the parties to ensure that UNDOF is accorded the ability to operate safely and securely and is allowed to operate freely in accordance with the agreement.

Council and Wider Dynamics

The unanimous adoption of resolution 2766 on 20 December 2024, which reauthorised UNDOFs mandate for six months, illustrated that the Council remains united in its view that UNDOF plays an important role in regional stability. Despite historical divisions in the Council regarding the Syria file and opposing positions of the UNDOF co-penholdersRussia and the USabout who holds sovereignty over the Golan, the two countries continue to consider UNDOF as a separate issue on which they agree.

Recent actions by the IDF and statements by Israeli officials, however, may lead to a greater divergence over Israels actions and presence in the Golan Heights. Following the adoption of resolution 2766, Algeria emphasised in a statement the illegality of the Israeli presence in the area of separation, noting that it violates the disengagement agreement and Security Council resolutions, and raised questions about the occupation of Syrian territory.

During the Councils monthly Syria meeting on 12 February, several Council members expressed concerns regarding Israels presence in the area of separation, including Algeria speaking on behalf of the A3 Plus group (Algeria, Guyana, Sierra Leone and Somalia), China, Denmark, France, Slovenia, Pakistan, and Russia.

On the other hand, in its statement, the US noted its concerns about reports of newly formed groups in Syria that are inciting violence, including by seeking to draw Israel into direct conflict and that it claimed are financially and logistically supported by Iran. During that meeting, the Iranian representative described the claims as baseless and urged the Security Council to take decisive actions to address Israels presence in Syria.

The US and Russia are co-penholders on the UNDOF file.

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MIDDLE EAST

Yemen

Expected Council Action

In March, the Security Council will hold its monthly briefing and consultations on Yemen. UN Special Envoy for Yemen Hans Grundberg (via videoconference), a representative of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), and a civil society representative are expected to brief.

The mandate of the UN Mission to Support the Hodeidah Agreement (UNMHA) expires on 14 July.

Key Recent Developments

Yemen continues to face immense challenges on the political, security, and humanitarian fronts. The reaction of the Yemeni Houthi rebel group to Israels military campaign in Gazawhich involved attacks on commercial and military vessels in the Red Sea and on Israeli territoryhas stalled the intra-Yemeni political process, degraded the countrys security and humanitarian environment, and raised doubts about the overall prospects for peace.

Following the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas that went into effect on 19 January, the Houthis ceased their attacks on vessels in the Red Sea and on targets in Israel. This pause in hostilities and the release on 22 January of the MV Galaxy Leader crewwhom the Houthis had detained in November 2023were welcomed as de-escalatory steps by Council members during their most recent meeting on Yemen on 13 February. The fragility of the Gaza ceasefire, however, coupled with a lack of predictability as to how the Houthis may react to regional developments, continue to contribute to a general sense of insecurity, particularly on the question of maritime security in the Red Sea.

Furthermore, the Houthis arbitrary detention of the UN, non-governmental organisations (NGO), civil society, and diplomatic mission personnel has undermined trust and efforts to advance the Yemeni peace process while also impacting the countrys humanitarian situation. Since May 2024, the Houthis have detained over 50 such personnel. In late January, the group detained eight additional UN personnel, one of whoma World Food Programme (WFP) staff memberdied in detention on 10 February. That same day, the UN decided to temporarily pause all operations and programmes in the Saada governatewhere six of the recently detained personnel had been workingciting the erosion of the necessary security conditions and guarantees for the UN to operate in the area. On 11 February, the Secretary-General issued a statement that strongly condemned the death of the WFP staff member and called for an immediate, transparent and thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to it.

In a 13 February press statement, Security Council members also condemned the death of the WFP staff member and the ongoing detentions by the Houthis, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained. The statement further expressed Council members grave concern about the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Yemen and the risk to the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance, demanding that the Houthis ensure safe, rapid, and unimpeded humanitarian access. Council members also emphasised that the humanitarian situation will continue to deteriorate in the absence of a political solution to the Yemeni conflict and expressed their support for Grundbergs mediation efforts in this regard.

With the political process deadlocked, the security situation in Yemen remains a concern. In his 13 February Council briefing, Grundberg warned of rising tensions in Yemen and referred to the reported deployment of military reinforcements to the frontlines. He called on the parties to refrain from military posturing and retaliatory measures that could lead to further tension and risk plunging Yemen back into conflict and cautioned that those who seek the resumption of full-scale military operations would contribute to instability in Yemen and the wider region.

On 22 January, US President Donald Trump designated the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation (FTO), citing the need to prevent attacks on US personnel and civilians, US partners, and maritime shipping in the Red Sea. In January 2021, during his last presidency, Trump had designated the Houthis as an FTO, a decision that was reversed by Biden as soon as he took office. Under US law, an FTO designation authorises sanctions on entities that provide the designated group with material support, and the executive order designating the Houthis referred to the support allegedly provided to the group by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force.

In his 13 February briefing to the Council, Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, urged Council members not to make political or security decisions that hinder civilian access to essential services and commodities. Stressing that Yemenis are on the precipice of disaster, Fletcher highlighted the severe challenges that OCHA described in its 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) for the country. Among other issues, Fletcher emphasised the risks faced by children who are suffering high mortality rates, malnourishment, and lack of access to vaccinations and education. He also urged the Council to guarantee protection for humanitarian workers and to scale up funding for humanitarian efforts. The HNRP calls for $2.47 billion to provide assistance and protection services to the most vulnerable populations.

Key Issues and Options

De-escalating tensions in Yemen and the Red Sea and relaunching the stalled intra-Yemeni political process remain overarching priorities for the Security Council. If the Gaza ceasefire continues to hold and progresses to the next phase, Council members may seek to take advantage of the Houthis concurrent pause in Red Sea hostilities and their attacks on Israel to encourage further de-escalation and a resumption of dialogue between the Houthis and the Yemeni government towards a nationwide ceasefire and a political settlement. One option for the Council in this regard would be to issue a presidential statement or press statement encouraging the Houthis to avoid escalations and Yemeni parties to preserve the progress made in 2022 and 2023during which they signed and largely sustained a truceand resume concrete discussions on establishing a roadmap under UN auspices for inclusive peace in the country.

A related issue is the impact the continued threat of possible attacks by the Houthis in the Red Sea has had on the freedom of navigation, global supply chains, and the provision of humanitarian aid in Yemen. An option would be to hold an informal interactive dialogue with regional countries to discuss the importance of maritime security, freedom of navigation, stability of supply chains, and safety of seafarers.

Council members may also seek to address the countrys deepening humanitarian crisis by encouraging the parties to remove obstacles impeding the delivery of humanitarian aid and by urging member states to mobilise funding to meet the requirements of the HNRP, including through a potential pledging conference.

Council Dynamics

Council members are largely aligned on support for an intra-Yemeni political process, the need to improve humanitarian conditions in Yemen, and on their calls for the Houthis to cease further attacks in the Red Sea. Many members have expressed hope that the ceasefire in Gaza can provide the momentum, conditions, and space to relaunch dialogue and resume the peace process under UN auspices. Advancing mediation efforts towards the establishment of a roadmap to this end remains a mutual priority. In light of increasing reports of escalatory rhetoric and military posturing, some Council members raised concerns during the 13 February Council meeting about the potential for further instability.

Nevertheless, Council members have divergent views on what is fuelling the political stalemate and insecurity in Yemen. In Council meetings, Algeria, China, Pakistan, and Russia have stressed that the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea cannot be discussed in isolation from the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory, and some have directly blamed Israel for instability in the region. Russia has also accused the UK and the US of undermining security in Yemen through their retaliatory strikes on the Houthis. On the other hand, the P3 members (France, the UK, and the US) have been critical of Irans role in supporting the Houthis, including militarily.

The US designation of the Houthis as an FTO appears to signal a shift in how the US will approach the situation in Yemen, adopting a more forceful position that is likely to have repercussions on Yemens political, security and humanitarian fronts. The Houthis have reportedly mobilised forces towards Mariba province controlled by the Yemeni government that holds oil and gas resources that could gain importance in the event of any shortages caused by the sanctions.

During the 13 February Council meeting, the US stressed that the FTO designation was an important step to respond to the Houthis threat to civilians and regional stability and criticised Iran for enabling the attacks. Yemen welcomed the listing and expressed hope that it would promote efforts to achieve peace. On the other hand, Russia criticised the decision for potentially having a negative impact on mediation efforts to relaunch the political process. Additionally, the FTO designation may impact humanitarian operations in Yemen and the countrys already vulnerable civilian population. Aid organisations have criticised the move, saying that it would exacerbate Yemens humanitarian crisis and strain the countrys economy, given its heavy reliance on imports for food, fuel, and medicine, a concern which was also raised by some Council members during their last meeting on Yemen.

Furthermore, Council members may have increasing concerns regarding a lack of funding addressing the dire humanitarian crisis in Yemen, which may have grown in light of the recent US Agency for International Development (USAID) suspensions. In 2024, USAID disbursed approximately $620 million to Yemen, $580 million of which was for humanitarian assistance.

The UK is the penholder on Yemen.

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The eurozone's manufacturing sector showed signs of improvement in February, according to fresh data released on Monday, with the HCOB eurozone manufacturing purchasing managers index (PMI) rising to a two-year high of 47.6 from 46.6 in January.

While still in contraction, the latest data signalled that the downturn was at its mildest level since early 2023, with factory output nearing stabilization as the drag from weak demand eased.

Production across the region continued to decline, but at the slowest pace in nine months.

New orders, both domestic and international, fell at their softest rate in nearly three years, reflecting a gradual improvement in demand conditions.

Manufacturers were also less aggressive in cutting back on input purchases and inventory levels.

Despite the positive signs, the sector faced challenges, particularly in employment.

Factory job losses accelerated, with the rate of workforce reductions reaching a four-and-a-half-year high.

Cost pressures also intensified, as input prices rose at the fastest pace in six months.

However, manufacturers struggled to pass on these higher costs, leading to a slight decline in output prices.

At the national level, most eurozone countries reported improving conditions, though contraction persisted in key economies such as Germany, France, Italy, and Austria.

The Netherlands saw manufacturing conditions stabilize after months of deterioration, while Ireland recorded its strongest expansion in a year.

In contrast, Spains manufacturing sector slipped into decline for the first time in over a year.

Looking ahead, eurozone manufacturers remained optimistic, with confidence levels among the highest seen since early 2022.

The sector's outlook was bolstered by expectations of further stabilising in demand and production in the months ahead.

It's still too early to call it a recovery, but the PMI hints that the manufacturing sector might be finding its footing, said Dr Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank.

New orders are falling at the slowest pace since May 2022, and production is edging closer to stabilising. So, after almost three years of recession, we could see a bit of growth in the coming months.

A quick formation of a government in Germany, political stability in France, and a deal with the US on key tariff issues would definitely help.

Dr de la Rubia noted that job cuts sped up in February, but added that it was not uncommon for layoffs to continue even after a recession ends.

As for the four big eurozone countries, Spain is still showing growth in production, but its manufacturing PMI, which has been doing rather well for the past three years, dipped below the 50 mark due to declining new orders.

Most companies are staying optimistic about the future - the confidence index is just above the long-term average.

This is surprising considering the tariff threats from the US, but companies know that a recession is usually followed by a recovery.

There are also signs that Russia's war against Ukraine might end this year, and the expected political stabilisation in Germany is certainly a positive element, too.

Reporting by Josh White for Sharecast.com.
US-based Viavi Solutions has signed a deal to buy Spirent Communications  high speed ethernet and network security business from Keysight Technologies for $410m and an additional $15m to be paid at closing.

The purchase is conditional on regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second quarter of calendar year 2025, shortly after the close of Keysight's acquisition of Spirent, all three companies said in a statement on Monday.

Keysight last year reached a deal to buy Spirent for 1.16bn, outbidding US peer Viavi which had already agreed to take over the UK telecoms group.

Reporting by Frank Prenesti for Sharecast.com
Londons FTSE 100 was up 1% at 8,899.55 in afternoon trade on Monday.

Defence firms BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce and Melrose Industries all rallied amid the prospect of increased spending.

The sector got a lift after the UK hosted a summit on Ukraine in London, with France's Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer proposing a one-month ceasefire that would cover air, sea and energy infrastructure.

Also over the weekend, Starmer announced a 1.6bn finance deal to help Ukraine buy 5,000 missiles.

On the downside, distribution firm Bunzl tumbled as investors were unimpressed with a weaker performance in the US which held back sales.

Adjusted pre-tax profit rose 2.2% to 873m while revenue fell slightly to 11.7bn. The company, which supplies companies globally with items such as food packaging and labels for supermarkets, catering equipment and personal protection clothing for hospitals, reiterated guidance after posting a rise in adjusted annual profits.

On a reported basis, profits fell 3.6% to 673m.

Bunzl cited deflation across the US and Europe, which led to fiercer competition to decrease prices among suppliers, for the revenue decline. Sales volumes were also impacted by the firm switching its focus towards own-brand products in its food services division in the US.

In the UK, Bunzl flagged a more challenging sales environment leading to weaker volumes, particularly in its safety division, which includes supplying equipment for building sites, and retail arm, with packaging for luxury fashion and jewellery firms impacted by slower consumer demand.

FTSE 100 - Risers

BAE Systems (BA.) 1,608.50p 14.36%

Rolls-Royce Holdings (RR.) 794.20p 6.75%

Antofagasta (ANTO) 1,803.50p 4.04%

St James's Place (STJ) 1,098.00p 3.78%

IMI (IMI) 2,076.00p 3.70%

Melrose Industries (MRO) 662.80p 3.40%

Intermediate Capital Group (ICG) 2,358.00p 3.33%

Anglo American (AAL) 2,405.50p 2.98%

Glencore (GLEN) 328.40p 2.90%

Marks & Spencer Group (MKS) 364.20p 2.65%

FTSE 100 - Fallers

Bunzl (BNZL) 3,150.00p -6.47%

National Grid (NG.) 955.20p -2.03%

BT Group (BT.A) 156.70p -1.94%

International Consolidated Airlines Group SA (CDI) (IAG) 345.80p -1.85%

Severn Trent (SVT) 2,463.00p -1.60%

Taylor Wimpey (TW.) 111.85p -1.32%

Informa (INF) 848.80p -1.19%

Land Securities Group (LAND) 558.00p -1.15%

British Land Company (BLND) 356.60p -1.05%

Sainsbury (J) (SBRY) 256.20p -0.93%
In a landmark move, the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi is actively promoting grassroots innovators across India, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh stated on Sunday. Speaking at the silver jubilee celebration of the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) via virtual mode, Dr. Singh emphasized PM Modis commitment to integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology under the vision of Virasat Bhi aur Vikas Bhi.

Marking the event, Dr. Singh launched a commemorative postal stamp, a magazine called 'Innovation Frontline,' and a coffee table book. He emphasized the importance of rural innovation in making India's economy strong and assured that innovations from far-flung villages would be replicated and given the same resources and opportunities as cities.

Dr. Singh lauded India's transformation from the Fragile Five to a leading global economy, soon to rank fourth worldwide. He called for a scientific approach to harness underutilized sectors, particularly in rural regions, which he claimed were overlooked by previous regimes. Highlighting PM Modis push to celebrate National Science Day with festival-like enthusiasm, Dr. Singh described it as unprecedented for a Prime Minister to extend such dedicated support to science and technology.

Describing his delight after meeting Padma Award winners who have promoted grassroots innovations, Dr. Singh wondered why their work, some of which had started as far back as the 1990s, remained unnoticed for so long. He attributed the credit to PM Modi for turning the Padma Awards into the 'People's Padma' to reward the unsung innovators.

The Union Minister pointed to the Micro Venture Innovation Fund (MVIF)  a path-breaking effort by NIF in association with SIDBI  that has infused risk capital into 238 innovation-driven ventures. He commended the fund for proving that innovation can be led by scientists other than elite ones with higher degrees, pointing to the Lavender Revolution (CSIR-IIIM, Jammu) and the Floriculture Revolution (CSIR-IHBT, Palampur) as instances of low-cost, globally desirable technologies.

On the 25-year anniversary of NIF, Dr. Singh declared that 713 patents have been awarded in India and 5 in the US, demonstrating the foundations contribution towards fostering grassroots innovators. He further emphasized that NIF was one of the first organizations to have a Technology Business Incubator (TBI), currently rebranded as NIFientreC, nurturing more than 25 grassroots startups and hundreds of businesses  some with an annual turnover in excess of Rs 10 crore.

innovators across the country to work towards the vision of transforming India into a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. Dr. Singh also stressed that with PM Modi at the helm, India has opened up the space industry and nuclear power for private sector participation, marking a new era of entrepreneurship and innovation. He appealed toto work towards the vision of transforming India into a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047.

The Minister wrapped up by portraying NIF's 25-year odyssey as a shining example of inclusivity, effectively identifying, nurturing, and spreading grassroots innovations even in the remotest corners of the country. He reiterated that with continued government patronage and private sector cooperation, India's innovation ecosystem is ready to guide the nation towards a brighter, self-reliant future.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal initiated his visit to Washington on Monday with an intent to take negotiations for a pending bilateral trade pact between India and the United States forward. Goyal is to meet US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, according to official sources, in preparation for future discussions.

This visit follows Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent trip to Washington, where both nations pledged to more than double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030. They also committed to negotiating the initial phase of a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) by fall 2025. Goyal had earlier indicated that the two countries aim to finalize a robust trade agreement within the next 6-8 months.

The visit is timely, coming when US President Donald Trump said he would hike tariffs on Indian imports. Tariffs, or government-imposed import duties, could affect Indian exporters, so Goyal's negotiations are important in mitigating possible trade tensions.

India and the US have traditionally complementary economies, where scope exists for bilateral concessions and reduction of duties. Free trade agreements generally consist of the phase-out or reduction of customs tariffs, in addition to steps aimed at facilitating services trade and investment.

In Trump's first term, the two countries negotiated a mini-trade deal, but the Biden administration pushed it aside, opting for larger trade negotiations. Nonetheless, bilateral trade relations have remained robust. In 2023, two-way trade in merchandise and services reached USD 190.08 billion with India registering a trade surplus. Merchandise exports from India to the US were worth USD 83.77 billion and imports were at USD 40.12 billion, resulting in a trade gap of USD 43.65 billion in favour of India.

During the same year, India's exports of services to the US were USD 36.33 billion, while imports were USD 29.86 billion, giving a surplus of USD 6.47 billion. Interestingly, the US has been India's largest trading partner since 2021-2024, with bilateral goods trade being USD 119.71 billion during 2023-24, with India having a surplus of USD 35.31 billion.

US foreign direct investment from April 2000 to September 2024, which signifies the long-standing robustness of the economic alliance. Additionally, India has garnered USD 67.8 billion infrom April 2000 to September 2024, which signifies the long-standing robustness of the economic alliance.

As the talks progress, Goyal's visit may turn out to be the turning point in balancing the trade dynamics, bringing closer the economic relationship, and creating a strong trade setup for both the countries in the future.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A suspect remained at large Monday after a 39-year-old man from Staten Island was fatally shot while he was inside a bar in Manhattan over the weekend.

Anton Albert of Arden Heights was mortally wounded on Saturday around 3 a.m. at 288 Elizabeth St., according to a statement from the NYPD.

Tom & Jerrys bar is located at the address supplied by police.
Charles B. Brinson, 64, who serves as bishop of the Brinson Memorial Church in Trenton, is charged with sexually assaulting an incapacitated teen, authorities said. Canva for NJ.com

A Trenton pastor charged with sexually assaulting a 16-year-old used a substance in an unmarked bottle to incapacitate the teen on two occasions, authorities said.

Charles B. Brinson, 64, was arrested on Feb. 19 at his home in the 300 block of Brinton Avenue following an investigation by the Mercer County Prosecutors Office and the Trenton Police Department.

Brinson, who serves as bishop of the Brinson Memorial Church, is charged with two counts of first-degree aggravated sexual assault of a helpless or incapacitated victim and two counts of second-degree endangering the welfare of a child.

Trenton police were called about 6:35 p.m. on Feb. 16 to Capital Health Medical Center Hopewell for an initial report of the sexual assaults, authorities said.

The 16-year-old told officers the first assault occurred in mid-January and the second on Feb. 12 at Brinsons home on Brinton Avenue, according to an affidavit filed by police in support of the charges.

Both assaults occurred in the pastors bedroom, where Brinson kept a bottle of a clear substance and a black top with no labels on it, authorities said.

Brinson placed the substance to the 16-year-olds nose, which caused the teen to lose consciousness, authorities said.

In the second assault, the substance was already on Brinsons fingers when he approached the victim and Brinson swiped the substance across the victims nose, and (the teen) immediately lost consciousness, the affidavit states.

The teen regained consciousness during the second sexual assault, authorities said.

Brinson was held at a local jail ahead of a court hearing. Attorney information for the bishop was not contained in online court records on Monday.

The investigation remains ongoing. Officials asked anyone with information to contact Mercer County Prosecutors Office Special Victims Unit Sergeant Sherika Salmon at 609-960-3119 or Detective Michael Staton at 609-989-6350. Tips can also be sent via email to mcposvu@mercercounty.org.

In 2008, Brinson was charged with sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy he allegedly picked up in Philadelphia and brought with him to Burlington County.

A judge later dropped a sexual assault charge, citing a lack of evidence.
In this photo released by the Horry County Fire Rescue, smoke is seen from fires in Horry County, S.C., on Saturday, March 1, 2025. (Horry County Fire Rescue via Associated Press)

Crews battled wildfires in North and South Carolina on Sunday amid dry conditions and gusty winds and evacuations were ordered in some areas.

The National Weather Service warned of increased fire danger in the region due to a combination of critically dry fuels and very low relative humidity.

In South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday to support the wildfire response effort, and a statewide burning ban remained in effect.

Crews worked to contain a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, where residents were ordered to evacuate several neighborhoods, according to Horry County Fire Rescue.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated Sunday afternoon that the blaze was burning about 1.9 square miles (4.9 square kilometers) with zero percent containment. No structures had succumbed to the blaze and no injuries had been reported as of Sunday morning, officials said.

The 410 personnel involved in the effort were expected to remain until the fire was contained, county fire officials said. Evacuations were expected to remain in place Sunday and officials warned residents in the Carolina Forest area to be prepared with go-bags and emergency plans if more evacuations were called in their neighborhoods.

In North Carolina, the U.S. Forest Service said fire crews were working to contain multiple wildfires burning on more than 400 acres (161.87 hectares) in four forests across the state on Sunday. The largest, about 300 acres (121.41 hectares), was at Uwharrie National Forest, about 50 miles (80.47 kilometers) east of Charlotte.

The small southwestern town of Tryon in Polk County, North Carolina, urged some residents to evacuate Saturday as a fire spread rapidly there. On Sunday, officials said those evacuations remained in effect.

That fire was burning about 400 acres (161.87 hectares) on Sunday afternoon, with zero percent containment, according to the Polk County Emergency Management/Fire Marshals office. The North Carolina Forest Service was conducting helicopter water drops and back-burning operations on the ground, and area residents should expect a lot of smoke during those operations, officials said.

Officials have not said what caused any of the fires.
With rising healthcare costs, Wallethub.com recently analyzed states to rank the best and worst health care systems across the U.S. (Getty Images/FatCamera) Getty Images

Health care spending is rising.

It hit $4.9 trillion in 2023, up 7.5% from 2022 -- far exceeding the 2010s' 4.1% average, per the Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker.

The average American spent $14,570 on health care in 2023, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Wallethub.com, a personal finance website, released a recent study examining states nationwide to identify where Americans receive the best and worst health care.

Health care has two crucial components, cost and quality. The best health care in the nation isnt helpful if it bankrupts the people who try to get it, and cheap health care isnt worth paying for if it provides subpar or ineffective treatment, Wallethub analyst Cassandra Happe said.

Therefore, the best states for health care are those that make high-quality care affordable, on top of providing many options for doctors and making insurance easily accessible.

WalletHub compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 44 key metrics of cost, accessibility and outcomes. These included factors such as the cost of medical visits, the quality of public hospital systems, hospital beds per capita, average emergency-room wait times, Medicare and Medicaid acceptance rates among physicians, infant mortality rates, maternal mortality rates, life expectancy, cancer incidence rates and more.

The study ranked Minnesota as the best state for health care, while Mississippi ranked last.

New York placed 38th in the study.

Here are the top 1 states for health care:

1. Minnesota

2. Rhode Island

3. South Dakota

4. Iowa

5. New Hampshire

6. Massachusetts

7. Utah

8. Vermont

9. Maine

10. Colorado
A Tesla with a sticker referring to the car's purchase is shown on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, in Concord, Mass. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan, File) AP

NEW YORK (AP)  Elon Musks car company is required each year to report to investors all the bad things that could happen to it, and the latest version lists every imaginable threat from costly lawsuits to out-of-control battery fires to war and another epidemic.

President Donald Trump listens as Elon Musk speaks in the Oval Office at the White House, Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File) AP

But theres barely any mention in the latest annual update of Musks full-bore entry into right-wing politics, which some experts say is turning off potential customers who dont share his views.

Its marketing 101: Dont involve yourself in politics, said New York brand consultant Robert Passikoff. People will stop buying your products.

It may be too late.

Tesla sales plunged 45% in Europe in January, according to research firm Jato Dynamics, even as overall electric vehicle sales rose. That comes after a report of falling sales in California, its biggest U.S. market, and the first annual drop globally for the company last year.

People protest during a rally against Elon Musk outside the Treasury Department in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File) AP

I dont even want to drive it, said Model 3 owner John Parnell, a Democrat from Ross, California, adding that he also is cancelling his order for the companys Cybertruck, losing a $100 deposit. Hes destroying the brand with his politics.

Car industry analysts say its too early to say for sure how much damage Musk is causing to Tesla because so many other factors could explain its current troubles. Its best selling vehicle, the Model Y, is coming out with a new version this year, leading potential Tesla buyers to hold off purchases right now. And European and Chinese manufacturers are finally catching up to the worlds EV leader, offering cars with battery life and dependability that are competitive.

But, if anything, that makes Musks political comments even more reckless, auto analysts say.

A person protesting Elon Musk's actions in the Trump administration holds a sign outside a Tesla showroom in Seattle, Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Manuel Valdes, File) AP

Musk thinks he can say anything he wants to and doesnt think Tesla will suffer any consequences, said Morningstar analyst Seth Goldstein. Tesla was in the sweet spot. Now it has competition.

The sales numbers were particularly bad in Germany and France in January, down roughly 60% each, more than the average decline for the more than two-dozen European countries surveyed. Sales in France fell another 26% in February.

More worrisome was the breakdown for Teslas individual models. Sales of Teslas Model 3 dropped 33% across all European countries even though that car is not being updated and there is no reason for buyers to wait

Protesters rally outside of a Tesla store in Boston, Saturday, March 1, 2025, against the company's CEO, Elon Musk, who is leading an effort to cut government jobs on behalf of President Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Rodrique Ngowi, File) AP

Part of the population is not happy with his views, his political activism, said Jato senior analyst Felipe Munoz who had shrugged off the boycott threat earlier this year, but is now having second thoughts.

Many Tesla buyers used to be wealthy, environmentally-conscious professionals, often liberal, who were attracted to Musks talk about how his EVs could help save the planet from fossil-fuel destruction.

Not anymore.

I used to be adored by the left, Musk said in an interview with Tucker Carlson on February 18 as his stock was halfway through a nearly 30% plunge for the month. Less so these days.

His decision to spend $270 million on Donald Trumps presidential campaign and publicly back him was risky enough for his business. Then he doubled down, pursuing a slash-and-burn strategy as head of Trumps government efficiency team and taking his political revolution and incendiary talk abroad.

He has backed the far-right, pro-Russian, anti-Muslim party in German y, called the British p rime minister an evil tyrant who runs a police state, and stated recently about a U.S. neighbor and major Tesla market, Canada is not a real country.

The backlash has been fierce.

Tesla showrooms in the U.S. have been besieged by protesters, its vehicles vandalized and bumper stickers appearing on its cars with sayings such as, I bought it before Elon went nuts.

An effigy of Musk was hung in Milan and image of him doing a straight-arm salute projected on a Tesla factory outside Berlin. In London, a bus stop poster of him above the word swasticars lit up social media. A Polish government minister called for a Tesla boycott.

I will not buy a Tesla again, said Jens Fischer, a 50-year-old microscope salesman in Witten, Germany, who thinks Musk is destabilizing democracy and has slapped one of those Elon went nuts stickers on his Model 3. Id sell if I got a good offer.

Tesla investor Ross Gerber says Musk has somehow managed to marry the worlds best product with the worlds worst marketing.

People want to buy stuff that makes them feel good, you dont want politics involved, said Gerber, a money manager whose portfolios hold nearly $60 million in Tesla stock. Its even worse when you have such divisive issues, whether its firing climate scientists or taking aid away from starving African children.

Boycotts have a habit of fizzling out, and Morningstars Goldstein says that buying a car is too big a decision and costs too much to make them successful targets, anyway.

One Tesla owner, Londoner Harry Chathli, is unmoved by the backlash, saying he has no intention of getting rid of his Tesla S. He has nothing but praise for Musk who he calls a visionary for transforming the way we think about transportation and the future of our planet.

But if Teslas stock is any indicator, the companys prospects are deteriorating, and Musks position in the Trump administration isnt helping. As of Friday, it has dropped 37% since its Inauguration Day, a loss of $550 billion in investor wealth.

-

AP Business Writers Pan Pylas in London and David McHugh in Frankfurt contributed to this story.
In this file photo, President Donald Trump speaks at the National Prayer Breakfast at the Capitol in Washington on Feb. 6, 2025. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) AP

In his first major address since being sworn in as president for the second time, Donald Trump will speak to both chambers of Congress Tuesday night.

Trumps address will take place in the U.S. Capitol in House of Representatives Chamber. While the precise time of when the speech will commence is unknown, it will be around 9 p.m. EST on Tuesday.

In addition to Trumps remarks, Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin will speak on behalf of her party. Her speech, a tradition held by the opposing party when it comes to a president speaking before Congress, will be in reference to the one Trump will deliver.

The speeches are typically observed as a sign of how the opposing party is crafting its message and policy priorities, NBC reported.

There are a variety of ways to watch Trump deliver his address, including:

traditional broadcast television stations

major news stations

some radio stations

Trumps first address to Congress was in 2017, after he had been sworn in as president the first time.

In this file photo, President Donald Trump addresses a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington on Feb. 28, 2017. (Jim Lo Scalzo/Pool Image via AP, File) AP

His 2017 speech revolved around taxes and the nations healthcare system  what his 2025 speech will be about remains to be seen.

It is important to note that this speech is not a State of the Union address, which is traditionally held about a year after a president is sworn in.

From Elon Musks involvement in governmental operations, to skyrocketing egg prices, to the Oval Office shouting match between Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the first weeks of Trumps second presidency have come under scrutiny on the national and international stages.
The head of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization urged Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to patch things up with President Donald Trump.

It is important that President Zelenskyy finds a way to restore his relationship with the American president and the senior American leadership team, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said in an interview with the BBC on Saturday, per Yahoo News.

Rutte also looked to offer reassurance about Washingtons commitment to Kiev, saying, Ukraine and its allies should respect what President Trump has done so far for Ukraine.

Ruttes comments came a day after Trump and Zelenskyys fiery confrontation in the Oval Office, after which the Ukraine president was told to leave the White House. The planned signing of a mineral deal between the U.S. and Ukraine was put on hold.

Rutte described the White House confrontation as unfortunate.

The encounter has led to concerns about continued American support for Ukraine in its war with Russia and has worried European nations that rely on America for security support, according to the DPA news agency in Germany.

Polish President Andrzej Duda also urged Zelenskyy to go back to the bargaining table with the U.S. and calmly negotiate a solution that will make Ukraine safe.

There is no other power in the world besides the United States that would be able to stop Russias aggression, Duda said.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock called for European nations to take more of a leadership role in backing Ukraine following the Trump-Zelenskyy blowup.

We need to act quickly now on the European and the national level, she said, adding Germany must take the lead at this historic juncture.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has gotten a bump in popularity with Ukrainians following his Oval Office blowup with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, a new poll shows.

According to Ukraine-based Gradus Research, 28% of Ukrainians said they intended to vote for Zelenskyy for president following the unprecedented White House encounter, up from 17%, Newsweek reported.

Zelenskyys approval rating with Ukrainians now stands at 48%, the poll showed.

Trump had falsely said that Zelenskyy had a 4% approval rating among Ukrainians. Newsweek said that no credible poll has shown Zelenskyy with approval ratings in the single digits.

The Gradus survey also found that the percentage of people who believe that Ukraine is moving in the right direction has also grown significantly, from 36% last week to 44% following the explosive encounter with the American leaders.

According to a survey by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) published in early February and cited by Newsweek, 57% of Ukrainians said they trust Zelensky.

The rating marks a slight increase from the KIISs December 2024 poll, which was conducted before Trumps return to the White House and showed that 52% of Ukrainians trust in Zelensky.

The Gradus survey was conducted among 1,000 respondents who used a self-completed questionnaire in the Gradus mobile app on March 1, the day after Zelenskyy was booted from the White House.

The sample reflects the population structure of cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants aged 18-60 by gender, age, settlement size and region, excluding the temporarily occupied territories and territories of active hostilities, Newsweek said.

In a February survey by Gradus, 52% of Ukrainians said that it was inappropriate to hold elections while the war with Russia was ongoing.

Trump had also hit out at Zelenskyy for failing to hold elections, calling the Ukrainian a dictator.

Trump later looked to walk that statement back.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan intend to increase volumes of mutual trade, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov said during a meeting with Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov, who is on an official visit to Baku, Trend reports.

The sides hailed the high level of trade and economic cooperation. It was noted that at the end of last year, the volume of mutual trade totaled about $500 million, and taking into account the level of economic development and potential of the two countries, the parties confirmed their intention to continue joint efforts to increase the volume of mutual trade.

The sides stressed the importance of implementing a comprehensive cooperation development program for 2022-2026.
The headquarters of the Ohio Department of Education in downtown Columbus, Ohio, is pictured on Oct. 4, 2023. (AP Photo/Julie Carr Smyth) AP

Sparked by President Donald Trumps executive orders, the U.S. Department of Education introduced a new initiative: the End DEI Portal.

The portal is meant to root out DEI  diversity, equity, and inclusion  in Americas education systems, according to a written statement by the DOE.

Community members, parents, teachers, and students can submit reports of discrimination based on race or sex in publicly-funded K-12 schools through the portal.

Save Our Schools Arizona Director Beth Lewis described the portal as a snitch line for diversity.

The portal requires information like email address, the school (or district), the accompanying zip code, and an open-ended response on what alleged discrimination is occurring.

The reports will then be analyzed by the DOE and whether it warrants an investigation.

The portal has received mixed reviews since its Feb. 28 inception.

In the statement announcing the portal, Moms for Liberty Coo-Founder Tiffany Justice said the following: For years, parents have been begging schools to focus on teaching their kids practical skills like reading, writing, and math, instead of pushing critical theory, rogue sex education and divisive ideologiesbut their concerns have been brushed off, mocked, or shut down entirely. Parents, now is the time that you share the receipts of the betrayal that has happened in our public schools. This webpage demonstrates that President Trumps Department of Education is putting power back in the hands of parents.

On the other hand, Jewish Council for Public Affairs CEO Amy Spitalnick said, The fact that Trumpsbigoted, extremisteffort to end diversity, inclusion, & equity in schools [and] uses Moms for Liberty as its only validation tells you everything you need to know. The same M4L that approvingly quoted Hitler and has deep ties to violent groups, like the Proud Boys."
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Its a testament to their musics quality that hip-hop trio Digable Planets are still touring the world despite their only albums, 1993s Reachin (A New Refutation of Time and Space) and 1994s Blowout Comb, being released more than three decades ago. The groups jazz-inspired rap still sounds as fresh as ever, and MCs Ishmael Butterfly Butler, Mariana Ladybug Mecca Vieira and Craig Doodlebug Irving bring classics like Rebirth of Slick (Cool Like Dat) to life with a (slick, cool) live band. 2manydjs

City Recital Hall, March 7 Belgian brothers Stephen and David Dewaele hit the music scene in 1995 with electronic band Soulwax, but their DJing duo 2manydjs has probably eclipsed the pairs day job thanks to legendary live sets and the revered mash-up album As Heard on Radio Soulwax Pt. 2, which contains 45 remixed tracks from artists ranging from 10CC to Dolly Parton. Anyone whos heard a Dewaele brothers DJ set knows that its about as fun and fist-pumping as dance music gets. Stephen and David Dewaeles live sets are legendary. Credit: Summer Dance with Honey Dijon, Sofia Kourtesis and Deepa

Liberty Hall Courts, March 8

Summer may be over, but Sydney should hopefully have some good weather in the tank for this outdoor dance party. Headlining will be Chicago-born Honey Dijon, the legendary house music DJ and producer whos collaborated with the likes of Beyonce. Joining her is Peruvian-born DJ Sofia Kourtesis, whose excellent debut album Madres came out in 2023, and Sydney-based DJ Deepa. This might be the last time to throw your hands in the air like you just dont care in an outdoors setting before the autumn chill sets in. Honey Dijon will headline the festival. Credit: Anna Warr PJ Harvey

Sydney Opera House Forecourt, March 13 Its been eight years since Polly Jean Harvey last played live in Sydney, and this time shes bringing Dirty Three guitarist Mick Turner as her support act. Harvey is touring in support of her Grammy-nominated 2023 album I Inside the Old Year Dying (her first independent LP since her 1992 debut Dry), although there are bound to be fan favourites played from across her stellar 34-year song catalogue. An iconic artist performing at an iconic venue makes this a cant-miss show. PJ Harvey is bringing Dirty Three guitarist Mick Turner as her support act. Credit: Getty Images

New Order

Sydney Opera House Forecourt, March 14-15 Ten albums and a bunch of singles over a 45-year career as a band may not be particularly prolific, but what legendary Salford, UK synth-pop band New Order lack in quantity, they make up for in quality (see: Blue Monday, Bizarre Love Triangle, Age of Consent, True Faith and countless other songs for definitive proof). Founding member and bassist Peter Hook left the band acrimoniously back in 2007, but New Order are in peak form as a live act. MJ Lenderman

Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, March 25 Asheville, North Carolinas Mark Jacob Lenderman has had a banner couple of years: his former band Wednesdays album Rat Saw God was one of 2023s best indie rock records, and Lendermans 2024 alt-country fourth LP Manning Fireworks was the kind of artistic breakthrough that gets you gigs at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall. Lendermans music is the perfect intersection of indie rock and skewed Americana. MJ Lendermans music sits at the intersection between indie rock and skewed Americana. Credit: NYT
Ceramic artist brings beloved characters from Chinese animated blockbuster 'Ne Zha 2' to life on porcelain

People's Daily Online) 13:54, March 03, 2025

Xu Kewen, a senior ceramic artist in Jingdezhen, east China's Jiangxi Province, paints the image of beloved character Ne Zha from Chinese animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2" on porcelain at the Jingdezhen Ancient Kiln and Folk Customs Museum in Jingdezhen, east China's Jiangxi Province. (Photo/Wu Fayang)

With a cup in one hand and a brush in the other, the vivid image of Nezha comes to life stroke by stroke.

In a fascinating blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern pop culture, Xu Kewen, a senior ceramic artist in Jingdezhen, east China's Jiangxi Province, has hand-painted beloved characters from the Chinese animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2" on porcelain.

The unique series of porcelain artworks features a remarkable fusion of traditional Chinese art forms, including painting, calligraphy, and the iconic blue-and-white porcelain.

Photo shows two pieces of blue-and-white porcelain ware featuring beloved characters Ne Zha and Ao Bing from Chinese animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2". The porcelain artworks were created by Xu Kewen, a senior ceramic artist in Jingdezhen, east China's Jiangxi Province. (Photo/Wu Fayang)

"Ne Zha 2" is an archetype of Chinese animated culture, and porcelain is a representative of traditional Chinese culture, Xu said, noting that by integrating modern and traditional cultural elements, he hopes to further boost people's cultural confidence.

Since Feb. 8, 2025, Xu has created nearly 20 pieces of artworks for the series, each selling out almost immediately. "It's hard for me to keep a complete set because they sell as soon as I finish them," he joked.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Photo: Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. A handful of agreements have been inked between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan in the country's capital Baku, Trend reports.

The documents were signed after Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov met with his Kazakh colleague, Oljas Bektenov, who is in Baku on a formal visit.

The signed documents cover areas such as cooperation in mandatory health insurance, the formation of a list of scientific publications, and the approval of an agreement on the laying of fiber-optic communication lines across the Caspian Sea floor.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Welcome back to The White Lotus, a place of poisonous cobras and monkeys that look like theyre contemplating ways to kill you. Can monkeys shoot guns? Lets hope not. Warning: These recaps, where we rank which characters are having the most relaxing stay, are packed with spoilers. Only read if you have watched episode three of season three of The White Lotus. MOST RELAXED You must excuse me, I have a very specific face blindness, and dodgy bald men all look quite similar to me, sincerest apologies. Credit: Belinda Our favourite therapist is being cradled by Pornchai in bodies of water for reasons of wellness. But just as she is regaling Pornchai with the story about the rich woman (Tanya) who promised to fund her business and then bailed, she spots Gary/Greg over the dinner table. As she approaches the table, Gary/Greg appears to be defecating in his board shorts. Belinda: Hello, Greg! Gary/Greg: I am not Greg, I am a different man with a very different name.

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Belinda: Didnt you date Tanya? Where is Tanya? Gary/Greg: As I say, this Greg man seems very cool, but I am Gary, an innocent man. Belinda: [Gets anxious shes not being cradled by Pornchai and leaves] I dont think Greg/Garys the type of smooth criminal to get away with this. He couldnt even think of a false name that didnt start with G. Gaitok, one day we will sing songs of your brave, hard head. Credit: Gaitok When Sritala, co-owner of the White Lotus, tells Gaitok she was sorry he was hit in the head with a gun (polite!) and that hes brave, Gaitok beams and assures Sritala he loves to get hit in the head. He struts over to Mook  Hey, did you hear people around here are calling me brave? So embarrassing. Want to smooch?  but then is teased by the cool plain-clothes bodyguards who tell him he is a turkey, not a rooster. Then hes told by another security guard that Fabian, his boss, wants a meeting.

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Maybe Fabian wants to tell him that hes brave? NOT TOTALLY RELAXED Hey Chelsea, have you ever seen Braveheart, thats a little like me, Chelsea. Credit: Loading The couple: Rick and Chelsea After a busy morning of telling his stress therapist Amrita that stress is kind of his thing, actually, all Rick wants to do is smoke a giant joint and go to a snake show. Who among us, etc. Poor Chelsea, who feels compelled to remind Rick were soulmates at least 100 times a day, waits patiently as he makes intense eye contact with an iguana. Unfortunately for everyone at the snake show (I hope those snake guys are union), Rick decides opening up the snake cages and letting them slither onto the floor is noble and just. The snakes are like, Hey, thanks a lot, man and Chelsea is like, WHAT ARE YOU DOING? The snakes, furious that Chelsea doesnt get it, bite her on the ankle, and she has to go to the hospital so she doesnt die.

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Chelsea survives, inexplicably stays with Rick, and is even compassionate when his answer to, Why did you release all those venomous snakes? is EVIL THINGS SHOULDNT BE TREATED LIKE SHIT. Now Rick is off to Bangkok (with someone named Frank who is probably not an assassin, maybe hes a chiropractor) to get revenge for his fathers murder  maybe. Is there a nicer rich guy at this resort for Chelsea who doesnt throw cobras at her? Ah well, at least tomorrow will be a good day. Greg/Gary has invited them on his boat! Nothing bad ever happens on boats at the White Lotus! (Saxon, five minutes later: Weve been invited on a boat!) Im just a freaky little dude, hehe. Credit: The family Heres the thing, Im sure Lochlan is having a stressful time, but I can get behind him constantly showing his family tsunami videos. Who is this kid? He cant even sit up straight!

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All the talk of tsunamis leads Victoria to have a very symbolic dream of a giant wave engulfing her family home. Piper reminds her mother shes very spiritual and can interpret the dream for her, so the whole family sits around the breakfast table and contemplates what a dream about a natural disaster destroying their house could possibly mean, while blood vessels in Timothys eyeballs burst one by one. Timothy is not very good at hiding his business catastrophe. His phone is ringing constantly, and even Saxon has started getting work calls. Timothy decides that, on second thought, its a GREAT idea to do a digital detox, but only if everyone does it and also gives away their iPads and Apple watches and maybe also the rule should be that no one asks him any questions from this moment forward, what a good rule. Saxon is devastated. Timothy is a picture of relaxation. Credit: I love working, Saxon says, almost weeping. We all do, Saxon! Timothy says. We all love work so much, we love it! Victoria offers Timothy some of her pills so he can chill out. Timothy takes the pills and falls into a coma for a whole day, then wakes up and just pops another one in secret. As they settle in for bed, Victoria is like, Want another pill? and Timothy says, I dont take drugs! Victoria asks if anything bad is going on, and Timothy is like, Zzzzzzzzz, Im asleep sorry, zzzzz.

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Nicholls alleged that when she called an ambulance, she suffered blowback from other staff members who didnt want the incident documented.

They left him there for 20 minutes, crawling around the ground, bleeding, she said. There was blood everywhere.

It wasnt the most distressing thing she would witness on shift. When a non-verbal man tumbled out of his wheelchair and split his head open, nobody went to his aid, Nicholls recalled.

Nicholls was appalled to see her clients being hit, thrown around and kicked on the ground in the disability group home where she worked until the beginning of 2023.

Instead, she says, she was plunged into a toxic pack culture in which staff turned a blind eye to violence between  and even towards  residents. Speaking up was not just futile but put a target on her back.

The then 22-year-old woman from the NSW Central Coast looked forward to sharing camaraderie with other support workers as they did their best to support residents of disability group homes with very high needs.

When Hayley Nicholls fell in love with the caring profession, she thought she had found her tribe.

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A recent expert analysis by the Grattan Institute found providing care in group homes is costing taxpayers billions and people with a disability deserve far better services for the extraordinary price tag.

New evidence unearthed by a Herald investigation paints a disturbing picture of recent conditions in a string of group homes , while whistleblowers, experts and advocates say Australia must intervene to address what one described as a national shame.

Yet nearly 18 months after the Royal Commissions damning final report was published, the future of group homes remains at an impasse, with the government still considering a recommendation that they be disbanded entirely.

Among the most harrowing testimonies were allegations a group home resident crawled onto a driveway and was run over by a worker who left clients unsupervised to buy cigarettes, a woman was hospitalised with severe burns consistent with being placed in a scalding bath after her mother made a complaint about her group home, and a woman was tied to a chair for long periods with her fingers taped together.

Whistleblowers like Nicholls risked their careers to provide evidence to the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability, which shone a light on the shocking levels of abuse, violence and neglect that blight disability group homes across the country.

A whistleblower says this man, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was left bleeding on the ground by staff at a NSW disability group home.

She supplied this masthead with a photograph that showed the man on the floor cradling his tracksuit pants, the fabric soaked in blood dripping from the large gash above his eye.

You are shunned and bullied if you report incidents, she said.

She said at both workplaces she was pressured to cover up residents injuries and client-on-client abuse, including an instance of choking.

What she saw in her new place of employment convinced her that deep problems were endemic in the industry.

Whistleblower Hayley Nicholls started work at a group home run by Ability Options in 2021 after her damning testimony to the disability royal commission about her previous employer was read in parliament.

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth failed to respond when this masthead asked whether the federal government was acting with the urgency warranted given the gravity of the commissions findings.

She said other staff would spend a large portion of their shift sitting outside gasbagging and eating clients food.

Most days the clients are not showered, have a pad change once in eight hours, have morning and afternoon teas skipped, half of their meals thrown out and are not offered drinks, she said.

Nicholls recalled that addictive Schedule 8 drugs would go missing, and medications would be administered to clients incorrectly or hours after the correct window.

I was concerned this man was going to die from that pressure area, had care not been implemented when it was, she said.

Nicholls said a failure to give clients timely medical attention seriously jeopardised their safety. In one instance, she said, a man with a pressure sore on his buttock did not receive medical attention and it worsened into an abscess before he was finally seen by a nurse.

Nicholls believes her complaints to the NDIS about the home run by Ability Options put a target on her back and allegations subsequently made against her were reprisals for speaking up.

Eight improvement actions were identified and implemented, including refreshed clinical protocols, and retraining in things like documentation, systems, responsibilities and thresholds for reporting, medications management and smoking at work.

This was because the reporter could not provide details or first-hand information, and the extensive investigation process did not find evidence to substantiate them, the spokeswoman said.

She said the allegations were taken very seriously and the organisation launched a comprehensive investigation, but most were not substantiated.

A spokeswoman for Ability Options said the company had identified a similar complaint made two years ago by an employee who left the organisation shortly after.

I love caring for people, but its things like this that make me wish I never stepped foot into this industry.

She resigned from the service in early 2023 and has moved to a different provider where she has not experienced similar issues. However, she maintains the industry requires major change.

The staff would cook up big roast dinners and sit in front of residents eating food that had been purchased with their money, she said.

The spokeswoman said that reportable incidents had been shared with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, and had since been closed.

She added that Ability Options had a well-established record of providing high standards of care. It always investigated and took appropriate action when there were allegations those standards had not been upheld, she said.

Staff who do not meet our high standards are given appropriate feedback and, in some cases, are dismissed.

The spokeswoman said investigations revealing shortcomings were reported to an internal quality and outcomes committee which monitored the delivery of improvements, along with external parties where appropriate.

The company had reviewed its records for the period covered by the disability royal commission and did not find significant concerns relating to allegations of abuse, neglect, violence or exploitation, the spokeswoman said.

However, it did find ways to improve its services, including investing more than $2 million in additional staff training and creating a clinical governance committee.

Mystery injuries

Blue Mountains woman Anndrea Wheatley has been campaigning for mandatory CCTV cameras in places of care for people with a disability after her son, James, twice returned home nursing unexplained injuries.

Wheatley said her sweet and gentle son, now 30, is non-verbal because he suffers from fragile X syndrome and could not tell her what happened.

An image of the head injury James Wheatley suffered in respite care.

On the first occasion in 2019, James returned home from respite with an injury to the head, while in 2021 he had been at a day program when he sustained significant bruising to his arm.

A doctor noted the former injury was consistent with Jamess forehead getting into contact with a circular object.

Nobody informed me or bothered to take responsibility, Wheatley recalled. She took up the matter with the providers, the police and regulatory authorities, but her attempts to have someone held responsible went nowhere because she didnt possess direct evidence of someone harming James.

Without cameras, we cannot know who hurt James, Wheatley said.

Anndrea Wheatley is calling for mandatory CCTV in places of care for people with a disability after her son suffered unexplained injuries while in care.

I find it ridiculous that cameras are used in petrol stations and universities and shopping centres, but there is nothing to protect special needs children and adults from being hurt or abused, especially when they cannot talk, like my son.

Division and despair

The royal commission heard that organisational cultures in group homes normalised violence and protected staff members who did the wrong thing.

Complainants were either not listened to, not believed or even faced retaliation when they spoke up, according to an issues paper published by the commission.

The Grattan Institute has predicted the number of people living in group homes will soar over the next decade as the Baby Boomer generation grows too old to care for their children and people age within the scheme.

All royal commissioners agreed a greater range of accommodation options should be made available so people could exercise more control over where they lived.

They called for a new policy unit to guide the development of more contemporary accommodation models.

In July last year, the Albanese government accepted the recommendation in principle but not in full.

The commissioners diverged over whether group homes should be abolished entirely.

Two opposing views emerged: the first, that group homes wrongly segregated people with a disability from the rest of society, and, the second that people could live in group homes while still enjoying significant interaction with non-disabled peers.

The former view won out, with a recommendation to phase out group homes within 15 years.

In July, the federal government said the recommendation was subject to further consideration.

The government noted reform work is being undertaken by the oversight body, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, which recently undertook its own inquiry into group homes.

As a result, it is developing new practice standards to set concrete expectations around quality of care in group homes.

The commissions report found the attitude and aptitude of workers drove a high number of the issues and said it had updated the training resources on its website and conducted online workshops for providers.

It also acknowledged the need for increased oversight of disability group homes, better data collection and engagement with residents.

However, some observers are dubious that actions taken to date will end the scourge of violence and abuse in group homes.

Completely in the dark

Jen Hargrave, a University of Melbourne researcher and long-time advocate for disability rights, said she was yet to see recommendations that would address violence and neglect quickly or strongly.

Weve known about this for a really long time. Those with responsibility have failed to act, she said.

Dr Sam Bennett, the Grattan Institutes disability program director, said that the government needed to define a clear roadmap to improve safety and provide alternative living arrangements for people in group homes.

The NDIS was supposed to be transformational for that group, but instead, very little had changed for them, Bennett said.

Weve known about this for a really long time. Those with responsibility have failed to act. University of Melbourne researcher Jen Hargrave on violence and neglect in group homes.

Other parts of the world  many of which have much less of a financial investment than Australia  are nonetheless doing better than Australia.

We seem quite willing as a country to pour tens of billions into substandard services for this group.

The institute is championing alternative models where a person lives with a host family or in a share house on the private rental market with housemates of their own choosing, assisted by support from an NDIS provider.

We did a lot of work on the costs for these supports. On average, theyre as or less expensive than group homes, Bennett said.

Theyre not well understood, theyre not well supported or enabled by current policy settings.

Bennett welcomed a recent move to make registration mandatory for providers of group homes, but said that didnt guarantee services were going to be safer.

Some of the worst instances of abuse in recent years have occurred by providers who are registered, he said.

Bennett did not agree that CCTV surveillance should be a priority unless it was actively chosen by residents.

Professor Christine Bigby, director of the Living with Disability Research Centre at La Trobe University, disagreed that the group model was broken.

Loading

She argued the crux of the problem lay in the vast discrepancies in the quality of care in group homes.

If it was to do with the model itself, then you wouldnt expect to find so much variability in the quality of what happens for people, she said.

My concern is that if you go down the road of closing group homes and saying everybodys got to move to smaller alternatives, thats not going to solve the primary issue about the quality of support.

Bigby said proper leadership from disability providers was crucial.

There were risks posed by the privatisation of services in NSW, which had seen an influx of inexperienced operators pursuing a profit-making model, she said.

Bigby believed the focus should be on providing sufficient numbers of properly trained staff, who often came to the sector ill-equipped after being employed in unrelated fields such as hospitality.

The turnover of staff in disability has grown enormously in the last few years, Bigby said.

Bigby argued staff should be trained in active support, a method that seeks to support people with severe intellectual disabilities to be involved in everyday activities and social interactions.

Several experts agreed one of the biggest stumbling blocks was a compliance system that had been too focused on providers having the right paperwork instead of conditions on the ground.

Some described a system of third-party audits as a ticking boxes exercise.

There is little evidence to suggest any relationship between having the right paperwork and providing quality support, Bigby said.

The Grattan Institute has warned there is no nationally consistent data on who is living in group homes and the prevalence of mistreatment and abuse.

Adding to the opaque state of affairs is that many residents are non-verbal or under guardianship orders forbidding them from being identified by the media.

If theyre closed off to the rest of the world, were not sure what kind of conditions people are living in, thats why group homes are so dangerous, disability rights advocate Elly Desmarchelier said.

Disability rights campaigner Elly Desmarchelier says the community is in the dark about whether either side of politics will close down group homes. Credit: Paul Harris

Desmarchelier stressed the importance of giving people with a disability more control over who they lived with and how they lived their lives.

In most group home settings, people with disability dont get to choose what they eat, when they wake up, when they shower, when they go to bed, she said. These are mini-institutions.

Desmarchelier said it was really disappointing the Albanese government did not accept in full the royal commissions recommendations regarding group homes and had put off a decision on their phase-out.

Weve gotten really good recommendations on how to make these things better, we just havent actioned them, she said.

Were a few months out from an election; what would an alternative government do? We are completely in the dark.

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NSW governments have been opening, closing or amalgamating schools for decades in response to financial demands and demographic changes, but it seems like planning madness to shelve plans to build new schools in the very suburbs targeted for medium-density development.

New schools earmarked for St Leonards and Chatswood have been put on hold just as thousands of new homes are set to be delivered in the area under transport-oriented rezoning reforms, including at Crows Nest, where 3255 new homes are set to be built.

Some overcrowded public schools are operating at double or triple their enrolment caps. Credit: iStock

Herald education editor Lucy Carroll reports initial plans for new lower north shore schools were flagged by the former government in 2021, when funding was set aside for early planning of an education precinct. But Lisa Harrington, deputy secretary of School Infrastructure NSW, told a budget estimates hearing last week that changing enrolment demand meant there was no urgent need for a new primary at St Leonards and a lot of capacity at existing schools.

Instead, the government has committed to building eight new schools by 2027, the bulk in Sydneys outer north and south-west suburbs, where enrolments have soared in low-fee private schools and the public system has struggled to meet demand driven by an influx of families to outer suburbs.
The family of a baby girl who died hours after her birth have spoken for the first time, describing their loss as incredibly horrific and welcoming an investigation into circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Leah Pitman, 34, and Dustin Atkinson, 39, from Fairlight on Sydneys northern beaches, travelled to Northern Beaches Hospital on February 22 after Pitman went into labour with the couples second child.

Leah Pitman and Dustin Atkinson have spoken for the first time after their baby died hours after her birth. Credit:

A caesarean section was ordered but not performed, and Pitman gave birth to baby Harper that night. The pair were then transferred by ambulance to Royal North Shore Hospital, where Harper died the following day.

It is with overwhelming sadness that we confirm the passing of our baby girl Harper on Sunday 23rd February due to complications in birth at Northern Beaches Hospital, the couple said in a statement provided to the Herald. We appreciate the outpouring of love, support and thoughts during this incredibly horrific time and ask for privacy as we continue to grieve our baby girl.
Thousands of primary school students will be tested on their mathematics knowledge as part of a landmark NSW numeracy screening trial to be rolled out from next term.

NSW will run the maths screening check for year 1 students across 150 public schools, testing about 5000 pupils on basic skills including counting, ordering numbers and simple addition and subtraction.

NSW will run a trial year 1 numeracy screening check in 150 schools from next term. Credit: Kate Geraghty

It comes as NSW struck a $4.8 billion funding deal with the Commonwealth on Monday which will tie extra cash to evidence-based teaching and reforms which will require schools to test maths and phonics-based reading ability of primary students.

NSW Education Minister Prue Car, who will outline details of the number check at The Sydney Morning Herald Schools Summit on Wednesday, said the state will develop and trial the test and will make it available for all states and territories to use.
Three private security agents have been criminally charged for illegally installing a tracking device on behalf of a client  colourful property developer Joe Nahas.

Facing 11 charges for various breaches of the Surveillance Devices Act is Liam Ryan, 45, the general manager of the GM Risk Group, which provides personal protection and advice on overseas security risks for many Australian media outlets, including News Corp, Seven West Media and Nine Entertainment, the owner of the Herald.

Joe Nahas, the owner of Coronation Property.

In a decade, Nahas, 45, has risen from insolvency and unemployment to his company, Coronation Property, having $5.7 billion worth of developments in the pipeline. The Herald can reveal that many of the projects are being bankrolled by the worlds richest and most reclusive gambler, Zeljko Ranogajec, 63, whose nickname is the Loch Ness Monster due to rare sightings.

No charges have been laid against Nahas, and he is not accused of any wrongdoing. However, the security operatives he hired are facing a raft of criminal charges.
By about 1pm, it was a category 1 storm about 450 kilometres north-east of Brisbane and moving south-east about 20 km/h. We are expecting a recurvature of Tropical Cyclone Alfred in the next 24 hours, in which it will start to make a westward track towards the Queensland coast during Tuesday morning, Bureau of Meteorology meteorologist Sue Oates said. Theres also signs that Tropical Cyclone Alfred can reintensify, and we are expecting a category 2 system heading towards the coast with more confidence of a likely coastal crossing of TC Alfred later into the week, and that looks most likely Thursday or Friday. As residents prepare to sandbag their properties, the lord mayor said kerbside collections had also been suspended. Credit: Dan Peled The most at-risk communities were island and bay communities in the south-east, with residents there urged to consider evacuating while it was still an option.

The last tropical cyclone to cross the south-east Queensland coast was Zoe in 1974. All Brisbane CityCat and ferry services will be suspended until further notice, with Monday nights services the last before Alfreds arrival. Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said kerbside collections had also been suspended and any items left outside should be brought in and secured. Green waste drop-off will continue to be free at our Resource Recovery Centres and Ive asked council to extend opening hours from 6.30am to 8.45pm to help people prepare their properties, he said. Acting Gold Coast Mayor Donna Gates said sandbagging stations had been open on Friday and Saturday, but barely anyone showed up. On Monday, there were queues at the Pimpama, Bilinga and Burleigh Heads distribution points.

We urged people to go and get ready, but it didnt happen, she said. Unfortunately, the media didnt produce the indication of where they were and when they were open, so we only had about 30 presentations on Friday and Saturday, and today theres great long queues. Loading Residents in high-rise buildings were urged to remove furniture from outdoor balconies, while low-rise residents were urged to secure outdoor furniture and clear out their gutters. Gates said she had spoken to Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, who had travelled to Las Vegas for the NRL season opener in a bid to poach Magic Round from Brisbane.

Hes looking at getting back as quickly as he possibly can, due to the conditions, she said. Earlier on Monday, senior BOM meteorologist Jonathan How said it would be challenging even for a region well-versed in wild weather. We will start to see these very strong, damaging to locally destructive winds over quite a long period of time, which can cause trees to come down, as well as property damage, and this will be later in the week as the tropical cyclone gets closer towards the coast. How said the heavy rainfall was expected to result in dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding along with a dangerous storm surge as the cyclone drew near, with the added threat of widespread flooding. Alfred was downgraded to category 1 on Sunday, but as of Monday morning had strengthened to a category 2.
Frankston City Council chief executive Phil Cantillon said the council was very concerned. It had become aware of the activities two weeks ago and had visited the site to demand works cease, he said. In a statement on the councils Facebook page, Cantillon said a planning enforcement letter and building order to stop work were issued to the landowner on Monday. Gene Neill at Docklands in 2015. Credit: Joe Armao Council has no record of what vegetation has been removed or what is being constructed, however, it is now apparent a significant area of vegetation has been cleared and a seawall (and potential retaining walls) are being erected, the post just after 6pm said. If the stop work order is breached, council will be forced to consider further action which may include prosecution.

But when asked if he had received the order on Monday evening, Neill said: I have not heard anything. Property records show that Neill bought the Frankston South beachside home  just off the Nepean Highway  for $9.25 million in December. Neill said it was unclear where the boundary between his home and the shoreline was and surveyors would soon assess it  but the vegetation cleared was not on public land. Thats my property, that vegetation, he said.

Neill said the the only pushback had come from Edbrooke, whom he called a clown. All were doing is securing our property from more landslides, Neill said. The council said that works in sensitive coastal environments required rigorous studies. All works and structures undertaken on coastal and marine public (Crown) land require consent from the state government, as well as planning and building permits where required. A spokesman for the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action said: Were working with Frankston City Council as the land manager to address the illegal coastal works and restore the foreshore to make sure there is no risks to the public and to ensure appropriate use of Crown land that belongs to all Victorians.

Neill said the seawall work was very professional. Loading Theres nothing dodgy about what weve done. Itll be the best wall on the peninsula here, he said. Neill denied a wider clearing that allowed access to the waters edge was for a boat ramp. Instead, he said it was for construction site access and would be turned into stairs once complete. I dont want to do this  Its gonna cost me $400,000 for the wall, and its gonna cost me $400,000 in legal fees, Neill said.

Im expecting it to end up in court because I know its happened to our neighbours. Although he was sceptical about whether the council had the will to spend ratepayers money on legal proceedings, Neill was confident he had a strong case. If they let everyone else do it along here, Ive got to be able to do it, he said. Edbrooke said Neills construction works were unacceptable, even though they were not on a main stretch of sand.

Loading Its not the prettiest part of the beach, but its part of the beach that people use to go fishing, walking their dogs, snorkelling  all that kind of stuff, he said. Its still public beach, and its a beautiful part of Frankston. However, Neill dismissed the criticism as coming from the left-wing people that are supporting the local MP that is pushing this. Theyre happy for the land to erode to the stage where peoples houses will fall down, he said.
Cramming more classrooms into existing schools would be necessary to save Victorias cash-strapped government billions of dollars on building critical new campuses, according to the states peak infrastructure body.

Infrastructure Victoria says the state will need to build another 60 government schools in the decade to 2036 to keep up with demand as the population grows by more than 1 million every 10 years.

A 30-year draft infrastructure strategy for the state, published on Tuesday, urges the state government to take a more cost-effective approach to building the next generation of schools by almost doubling their standard size.

While the report finds the government is on track to deliver on a promise to build 100 schools by 2026, it predicts another 60 schools need to be built in the subsequent decade, and enrolment pressure will again be heaviest in Melbournes growth zones.

The regions of Wyndham and Melton-Bacchus Marsh will need a combined extra 28,000 school desks between 2026 and 2036, while about 14,000 new places will be needed in Whittlesea and another 11,700 in Casey.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has cleared another hurdle in the race to the federal election by striking a $4.8 billion school funding deal that aims to lift results across NSW, bringing Labor within sight of a national agreement on a key issue for voters.

The federal government will lift its share of NSW school funding in a similar deal to a $2.5 billion agreement with Victoria five weeks ago, turning attention on Queensland as the last state to sign up to a national pact.

Labor is preparing the way for an election on April 12 after a policy blitz over the past week, unveiling a $2.6 billion boost to aged care on Monday night after promising more urgent care GP clinics and committing $8.5 billion to Medicare.

Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses education deal with NSW Premier Chris Minns follows a similar substantial funding deal with Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

But the prime minister is reserving his options on the election date, given it could be held on May 3 or May 10 if Labor wants more time to recover ground with voters after a slide in support across most opinion polls over the past six months.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The development of transport and logistics ties between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan has been identified among the priority areas of cooperation, Trend reports.

This was announced during the meeting of Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov with Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov, who is on an official visit to Baku following the invitation.

Meanwhile, it was noted that satisfaction was expressed with the growth of transit freight transportation volumes between the two countries, which reached 21 percent by the end of 2024. Rail transit transportation by rail has increased by 33 percent.

The parties reaffirmed mutual commitment to ensure the fulfillment by the governments of the instructions of the heads of state on the development of the Middle Corridor.

The Kazakh side was informed about the work carried out by Azerbaijan to improve all links of international transport corridors passing through the territory of the country.

In this context, the importance of launching the Zangezur Corridor, which could make a significant contribution to the expansion of the Middle Corridor, was emphasized.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is facing calls from the Netanyahu government and local Jewish groups to again recognise West Jerusalem as Israels capital if the Coalition wins the federal election.

The Morrison government recognised West Jerusalem as the Israeli capital in 2018, before the Albanese government reversed the move three years later.

Sharren Haskel, the deputy Israeli foreign minister, pictured in Tel Aviv in 2023. Credit: Kate Geraghty

Israels Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel told this masthead: I would expect the declaration of Jerusalem as the undivided capital of Israel.

Declaring that West Jerusalems status as Israels capital was an obvious and undisputed fact, Haskel said such a move would help repair the fractured relationship between the two countries, which has become increasingly acrimonious since Labor came to power.
US officials have said Russia has continued to try to penetrate US networks, including in the first weeks of the Trump administration. But that is only part of a broader Russian campaign. Over the past year, ransomware attacks on US hospitals, infrastructure and cities have ramped up, many emanating from Russia in what intelligence officials have said are largely criminal acts that have been sanctioned or ignored by Russian intelligence agencies. Sabotage efforts in Europe  including suspected Russian attempts to cut communications cables, mysterious explosions and Russian-directed assassination plots, including against the chief executive of Germanys largest arms maker  have accelerated in the past year. The US has, until now, been central in helping European nations fight back, often in covert cyberoperations, but that co-operation could now be in jeopardy.

Many of those operations are run out of Britains Government Communications Headquarters  the storied intelligence agency that broke the Enigma codes in World War II  and to some extent by Canada. It is possible they will continue that work while the US focuses on China, its most sophisticated adversary in cyberspace. Russia also ran an aggressive influence campaign during the last presidential campaign, according to reports by US intelligence agencies during the Biden administration. In recent election cycles, US Cyber Command has conducted secret operations to hamper or curtail those influence efforts. The US plan essentially counts on Russian President Vladimir Putin to reciprocate by letting up on what many call the shadow war under way against the US and its traditional allies in Europe. Credit: nna\riwood But the Trump administration has begun to dismantle efforts by the FBI and other agencies to warn about Russian propaganda, and the order by the Pentagon would halt, at least for now, any further Cyber Command efforts to interrupt future Russian influence campaigns. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday described the urgency of getting Russia to the negotiating table over Ukraine, even while acknowledging that it was unclear whether Putin was ready to make a deal.

Youre not going to bring them to the table if youre calling them names, if youre being antagonistic, Rubio said on ABCs This Week. Thats just the presidents instincts from years and years and years of putting together deals as someone whos in business. He was not asked about the decision to stop the offensive cyber operations, but he grew defensive when pressed on why the US was letting up on pressure on Moscow, to the point of removing language from a United Nations resolution that described Russia as the aggressor in the war in Ukraine. Almost all the USs traditional allies voted against the resolution, leaving the Trump administration siding with Russia, North Korea, Iran, Belarus, and a handful of other authoritarian states. Loading If this was a Democrat that was doing this, everyone would be saying, well, hes on his way to the Nobel Peace Prize, Rubio said. This is absurd. We are trying to end a war. You cannot end a war unless both sides come to the table, starting with the Russians, and that is the point the president has made. And we have to do whatever we can to try to bring them to the table to see if its even possible. The order from Hegseth was first reported by The Record, a cybersecurity publication from Recorded Future, which tracks cyber operations. The Pentagon and US Cyber Command declined to comment on the record, but a senior defence official, declining to allow the use of her name, said Hegseth had no greater priority than the safety of military members, including in cyber operations.

After the publication of this article, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement that Trump appeared to be giving Putin a free pass as Russia continues to launch cyber operations and ransomware attacks against critical American infrastructure. He called the administrations move a critical strategic mistake. As the Trump administration prepared to take office, departing Biden administration officials urged Trumps appointees to keep the pressure on Russia, including by continuing to arm Ukraine and push back on the GRU and the SVR, two Russian intelligence agencies that have been behind some of the most aggressive Russian cyberattacks and espionage operations. Loading They specifically briefed the Trump officials on suspected Russian efforts to cut communications cables undersea and the US effort last year to get a message to Putin about the consequences if an effort to put explosives on cargo planes resulted in an air disaster. US intelligence agencies concluded that Russias ultimate goal was to send those packages to the US. During Trumps first term, US cyber operations against Russia were, if anything, ramped up. The National Security Agency created a Russia Small Group after the Russian interference in the 2017 election.
One of the reasons that the footage of US President Donald Trumps clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was so compelling to Western audiences was the sheer unfamiliarity of such a scene.

Leaders routinely have arguments behind closed doors, but this one was very deliberately broadcast. The host not only inflamed US Vice President J.D. Vances provocations of the Ukrainian leader, but he made sure to keep the media in the room for the full 50-minute drama. As Trump said in the closing line: This is going to be great television.

Illustration by Joe Benke

But to Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping, and anyone else familiar with Marxist-Leninist political management, it was instantly recognisable. This was a struggle session. That is, an orchestrated ritual humiliation of a political enemy, conducted in public, often with crowd participation. A common feature is that the target is denounced by people they thought were close to them.

The struggle session had its origins in the writings of Soviet leader Josef Stalin on the subject of criticism and self-criticism. It was later embraced by Chinas Mao Zedong against suspected class enemies.
Protesters targeting US Vice President J.D. Vance and billionaire Elon Musk spread across the United States at the weekend following Donald Trumps bitter row with Ukraines Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.

Demonstrators at resorts in Vermont told Vance to go ski in Russia after he publicly castigated Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday.

Protesters rally in Vermont, where US Vice President J.D. Vance had planned to ski with his family. Credit: X/@SonnyVermont

The protests were followed by demonstrations against Musk outside Tesla dealerships across the country.

In Vermont, they held signs reading Vance = Putins pawn = traitor and Vermont stands with Ukraine. Some protesters included drawings of Nazi swastikas, while many also waved Ukrainian flags.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Ixion & The Soufriere Suite by Shake Keane was launched here by HNP last Friday at the University of St. Martin with readings from the poetry book and a critical review. Greetings were also sent from author NC Marks in St. Vincent and Keanes son, Roland Ramanan, in London.

You need this book to understand why Shake Keane is one of the very best writers, musicians, and creative minds to come out of this region, said guest speaker Fabian Adekunle Badejo.

The literary critic had previously questioned why Keane is not better known in the Caribbean and his native St. Vincent & the Grenadines, both among the public and literary scholars. He noted that while Keane gained musical fame in Europeplaying with the likes of Lord Kitchener and the Joe Harriott Quintet and receiving rave reviews in the mid-20th centuryhis few published literary works remained largely inaccessible during his lifetime and even more so after his death in 1997 at age 70, whether in Europe, the Caribbean, or the USA.

Badejo noted that renewed interest in the poet followed The Angel Horn, Keanes authoritative collection published by HNP in 2005. The book was launched at the St. Martin Book Fair that same year, with Keanes widow, Dr. Margaret Bynoe, as a special guest of the festival.

Ixion & The Soufriere Suite makes Shake Keane much more accessible than he has been up to now, said Badejo. MC Rhoda Arrindell reminded guests that the new book is actually an anthology of two slim collections first published in 1952 and 1979, respectively.

Badejo elaborated on what he said may seem like ancestral connections between contemporary eco-poetry and Keanes hurricane and volcanic disaster poems, written between 70 and 45 years ago.

What may have surprisedor even saddenedsome in the audience was Badejos assertion that the Ixion poem For R.  was not a cryptic love poem but rather a farewell to his beloved St. Vincenta farewell that unfolded over several years, culminating in Keanes painful self-exile in Brooklyn, New York, between 1981 and 1997.

Additionally, Badejo highlighted the books Caribbean take on the Greek mythical figure Ixion and the early jazz inflections in Caribbean poetry, as seen in the works of Kamau Brathwaite. He noted that todays Caribbean peoplewriters and artists alikeare heirs to a legacy left for us by people who had guts, like Shake Keane.

The book launch recitals reached a high point with a superb song rendition of the poem Mirrors from the new book. It was a pure concert-class performance by Clara Reyes, said Lasana Sekou, HNPs projects director. Reyes performance seemed to hold the audience of just over 30 men, women, and children spellbound. Aishira Shishi Cicilia delivered a moving reading from Storm Season, while Sekou read from Soufriere (74) (4).

Ixion & The Soufriere Suite is available at Arnias Bookstore (Zagersgut Rd/Bush Rd, St. Martin), Gaymes Book Centre (Kingstown, St. Vincent, SVG), and online at libroslatinos.com.
Motorworld has been recognized on the global stage at the 2025 GAC International Partner Conference, held in Guangzhou, China. The dealership received two prestigious accolades, solidifying its position as a key partner in GAC Motors international network.

Sales Elite of the Year Award

Motorworlds GAC Sales Consultant, Eva Lecciones, was honored with the Sales Elite of the Year Awarda distinction granted to only six Sales Consultants worldwide. This award recognizes professionals who exemplify excellence in key sales behaviors, including:

High-quality personal and corporate customer service.

Outstanding product demonstrations.

Superior test drive experiences.

Strong personal sales techniques.

Exceptional ability to address and resolve customer concerns.

Motorworlds Managing Director, Tariq Amjad, accepted the award on behalf of Eva Lecciones.

Global Outstanding Distributor Award & Keynote Speech

In addition to individual recognition, Motorworld was also awarded the prestigious title of "Global Outstanding Distributor." As a testament to the dealership's remarkable achievements, Tariq Amjad was invited to deliver a keynote speech to an audience of GAC Executives and international partners. His speech highlighted:

The official launch of the GAC Motor brand at Motorworld in early 2024 .

. The brands rapid expansion , now serving over 20 territories across the Caribbean .

, now serving . Key best practices that contributed to Motorworlds success as a regional distributor.

GAC Motors Record-Breaking Global Growth

GAC Motor has experienced unprecedented global growth in 2024, with a 96% increase in sales compared to 2023the highest growth among all Chinese automotive brands. GAC vehicles are now available in 391 stores across 72 regions, reflecting the rising global demand for the brand.

As part of its continuous improvement initiatives, GAC Motor International remains committed to enhancing operational capabilities across all markets to further elevate the customer experience.

Motorworlds achievements at the 2025 GAC International Partner Conference reinforce its leadership in the Caribbean automotive market and its pivotal role in GAC Motors international success.
The Cari-Aire aviation internship program was officially launched last week at the Cabinet of the Representative Minister of Curacao in The Hague. This internship program focuses on strengthening the aviation sector across all six islands. It is an initiative by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (IenW) and the Caribbean aviation authorities, implemented in collaboration with the WeConnect Foundation. Three interns will begin a six-month internship this week with the aviation authorities of Curacao and Aruba.

Objective Cari-Aire aims to enhance safety within the aviation sector. Specifically, the focus is on promoting expertise related to governmental tasks, such as aviation inspection, and expertise in legislation and policy. The selected interns will gain hands-on experience while bringing fresh, innovative knowledge, skills, and energy to support local employers in the aviation sector. This is particularly important as the aviation industry faces challenges, including the need for qualified personnel and an aging workforce.

Aviation Marjan van Giezen, MT member of Aviation at the Ministry of Infrastructure, responsible for Airspace and Regional Airports, expressed the importance of the aviation sector in her speech: Aviation is a crucial and irreplaceable part of life on the islands in the Caribbean: aviation connects people, facilitates appointments with hospitals and notaries, provides access to education, and transports goods and patients.

Interns The three interns are studying Aviation at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences (HvA). For example, 22-year-old Ghyslaine Sambo is in her third year and will undertake a shadowing internship to explore various aspects of the aviation authorities. Im looking forward to learning a lot during my internship. I also want to share my experiences to inspire more Caribbean students to intern on one of the islands.

Aruban Charles Huntington (24) is excited about his internship at the Department of Civil Aviation Aruba (DCA). Im going back home, and Im very pleased to contribute there. My graduation internship focuses on compliance (regulations), looking at which international requirements must be met to ensure safety.

For Abdullah Kendir (27), this internship marks the completion of his Aviation studies at HvA. With extensive work experience, including at Schiphol, he looks forward to his introduction to Curacao. Sun, sea, and of course, airplanes! he says with a wink when asked what he expects. Moreover, during my studies, I never dreamed that interning at an aviation authority would even be an option!

Commitment On behalf of WeConnect, manager Tanja Fraai expressed her appreciation for the swift establishment of the internship program in just a few months: This was only possible because all parties were 100% committed: the Ministry, the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, and, importantly, the aviation authorities themselves. This is a blueprint for how an internship program should be set up, with everyone on board. Program manager Pam Evertsz addressed the students: It is an honor for me to closely follow your growth. I believe that you, as the new generation of aviation professionals, will have a lasting and positive impact on aviation safety in the Caribbean.

Collaboration The launch was attended by the Representative Minister of Sint Maarten and the directors of the Cabinets of Aruba and Curacao. All wished the interns much success. There was great appreciation for this wonderful collaboration within the Kingdom, with hopes that the Cari-Aire aviation internship program will bring even more students to the islands in the future.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Azerbaijan is ready to offer its shipbuilding capabilities to Kazakhstan, Trend reports.

This matter was discussed during a meeting between the Prime Minister of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov and his Kazakh counterpart Olzhas Bektenov, who is on an official visit to Baku at Asadov's invitation, on March 3.

The meeting identified the development of transport and logistics connections as one of the priority areas of cooperation. The increase in transit cargo transportation between the two countries by 21 percent by the end of 2024 was welcomed. Railway transit transportation has increased by 33 percent.

The parties confirmed their mutual commitments to ensure the implementation of the orders of the heads of state regarding the development of the Middle Corridor.

The Kazakh side was informed about the work carried out by Azerbaijan to improve all international transport corridors passing through its territory. In this context, the importance of launching the Zangezur corridor was emphasized, which can make a significant contribution to the expansion of the Middle Corridor.

Moreover, It was noted that there are good prospects in the shipbuilding sector. Azerbaijan expressed its readiness to offer its shipbuilding capabilities to Kazakhstan.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
UN rights chief alarmed by 'fundamental shift' in US direction



Geneva, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



The UN rights chief voiced deep concern Monday over the United States' "fundamental shift" in direction since Donald Trump returned to power, and decried the "unchecked power" of "unelected tech oligarchs".

Addressing the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Volker Turk voiced the UN's strongest rebuke to date of the dramatic about-face in the United States in recent weeks.

"We have enjoyed bipartisan support from the United States of America on human rights over many decades," he said, before adding: "I am now deeply worried by the fundamental shift in direction that is taking place domestically and internationally".

Without naming Trump, he decried that "policies intended to protect people from discrimination are now labelled as discriminatory".

"Progress is being rolled back on gender equality. Disinformation, intimidation and threats, notably against journalists and public officials, risk undermining the work of independent media and the functioning of institutions."

Turk also said "divisive rhetoric is being used to distort, deceive and polarise".

"This is generating fear and anxiety among many," he warned.

No US representative was in the room for Turk's speech, since Washington has announced it will no longer interact with the council.

That was among a flurry of executive orders signed by Trump since his return to the White House on January 20, on issues from foreign policy to transgender rights.



- 'Tech oligarchs' -



Relief groups warn that Trump's aid freeze has already hurt millions around the world, while there is growing alarm at how his administration has lashed out at traditional democratic allies while voicing a fondness for dictators.

Presenting an overview of the rights situation globally, Turk sounded "alarm" over conflicts from Gaza and Ukraine to Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and accompanying rights abuses.

The current "turbulence and unpredictability" is cutting "to the very core of the international order", he warned.

"We cannot allow the fundamental global consensus around international norms and institutions, built painstakingly over decades to crumble before our eyes."

Of particular concern was the growing influence wielded by "a handful of unelected tech oligarchs", Turk said.

Turk, who did not mention anyone by name, warned that "tech oligarchs have our data: they know where we live, what we do, our genes and our health conditions, our thoughts, our habits, our desires and our fears".

"They know how to manipulate us."

Turk, whose comments were not limited to the situation in the United States, stressed that "any form of unregulated power can lead to oppression, subjugation, and even tyranny: the playbook of the autocrat".

He called on countries everywhere to "adapt -- fast".

"States must fulfil their duty to protect people from unchecked power, and work together to achieve this," he said.



- 'Toxic' -



In the United States, tech leaders have broadly fallen in line around Trump since he won the November presidential election, with X owner Elon Musk -- the world's richest man -- taking an outsized role in the new administration.

Amazon owner and the world's third-richest man Jeff Bezos is also increasingly aligning with Trump, including ordering his prestigious newspaper, The Washington Post, to refrain from printing views opposed to "personal liberties and free markets".

Meta's Mark Zuckerberg has ended fact-checking programmes and relaxed content moderation rules on Facebook and Instagram, in a move UN chief Antonio Guterres has warned is destined to reopen "the floodgates to more hate" and lead to "less free speech".

The tech leaders are also increasingly embracing Trump's campaign against so-called diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

That backlash is not only being felt in the United States.

Turk decried "the resurgence in some quarters of toxic ideas about masculinity, and efforts to glorify gender stereotypes", warning that this was happening around the world.

"From autocracies to democracies, women and girls are denied their rights in myriad ways," he said.

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Amazon.com
TSMC announces $100 bn investment in new US chip plants



Washington, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Taiwanese chip-making giant TSMC will invest at least $100 billion in the United States to build "cutting edge" manufacturing facilities, President Donald Trump said Monday, announcing the latest blockbuster financial pledge by a private company since his return to office.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co's new investment will come on top of their existing commitments, and will go into "building five cutting edge fabrication facilities," Trump said during a White House event, flanked by TSMC chief executive C.C. Wei.

He added that much of the funding would be invested in the US state of Arizona, where TSMC -- the world's largest chipmaker -- has already invested heavily, and would create "many thousands" of high-paying jobs.

TSMC has long faced demands to move more of its production away from Taiwan, amid fears that supplies of the critical technology could be disrupted in any conflict with Beijing.

The company, during former president Joe Biden's administration, pledged to invest more than $65 billion in three factories in Arizona, one of which began production in late 2024.

Trump recently ratcheted up the pressure on TSMC and other chip manufacturers by publicly mulling the introduction of 25 percent tariffs on all semiconductor chips made outside the United States.

Monday's announcement brings the total amount committed by the company to around $165 billion, C.C. Wei said Monday.

"We are going to produce many chips to support AI progress, and to support smartphones' progress," he added.

The new investment will help expand the firm's US footprint to include "three new fabrication plants, two advanced packaging facilities and a major R&D (research and development) team center," while supporting 40,000 construction jobs over the next four years, TSMC said in a statement.



- Tariff threats -



Since regaining the White House, Trump has called on companies to create more manufacturing jobs in the United States, while threatening to impose steep levies on those who do not comply.

His administration has already imposed a 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods, and is scheduled to impose a 25 percent tariff Canada and Mexico from Tuesday, alongside an additional levy of 10 percent on goods from China.

On Monday, Trump said there was "no room left for Mexico or for Canada" to avoid the tariffs, adding: "They're all set, they go into effect tomorrow."

Trump has invited executives from some of the world's largest companies -- including OpenAI and Oracle -- to the White House since his January 20 inauguration to tout investments worth hundreds of billions of dollars in US manufacturing.

The amount announced since inauguration day now totals more than $1 trillion, including a commitment from Apple to invest $500 billion over the next four years.

These gargantuan sums are sure to please Trump's supporters. His critics point to some similarly ambitious targets pledged during his first term in office which failed to materialize.
Iran's former top diplomat Zarif resigns from VP post



Tehran, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Iran's former foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who negotiated the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, has resigned as vice president, state media said Monday.

"Zarif's resignation letter was received by President Masoud Pezeshkian, who has not yet responded," the official IRNA news agency reported, without giving further details.

In a Monday post on X, Zarif said he had "faced the most horrible insults, slander and threats against myself and my family, and I have gone through the most bitter period of my 40 years of service.

"To avoid further pressure on the government, the head of the judiciary recommended that I resign and... I accepted immediately," he added.

Pezeshkian, who took office in July, named Zarif as his vice president for strategic affairs on August 1 but Zarif resigned after less than two weeks, before returning to the post later in the month.

Zarif was Iran's top diplomat between 2013 and 2021 in the government of moderate president Hassan Rouhani.

He became known on the international stage during lengthy negotiations for the 2015 nuclear accord formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

The deal was effectively torpedoed three years later when, during Donald Trump's first term as president, the United States pulled out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on the Islamic republic.

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Philippine ambassador to US 'confident' Trump-era ties will stay strong



Manila, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



The Philippines' ambassador to Washington said on Monday he was "confident" the two countries' military ties would remain strong under the Donald Trump administration, while also acknowledging the unravelling of the US-Ukraine relationship.

China and the Philippines have been involved in increasingly tense confrontations over reefs and waters in the South China Sea, which Beijing claims in almost its entirety despite a Hague ruling that its assertion has no basis.

Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez said he believed that US backing in the disputed waterway and military assistance would continue, pointing to a $336 million exemption granted amid a freeze on foreign spending.

"I think all of that will remain, I am confident that it will," he told foreign journalists in Manila.

Romualdez said Trump's approach was that of a businessman looking to invest in countries he believed could be valuable partners.

"We're not there to ask for money and that's it. We're asking for investment because we want to be part of a partnership," he said, adding that President Ferdinand Marcos wanted a face-to-face meeting with Trump in Washington as soon as feasible.

Romualdez pointed to a $2.5 billion bill for Philippines defence currently before the US Congress, saying there was strong bipartisan support for the legislation.

The veteran diplomat also floated the possibility of buying liquid natural gas from the United States, saying it had come up in discussions with Alaskan Senator Dan Sullivan.

"Many of our energy requirements could possibly use LNG as an alternative source of energy. So that's one of the many things we're trying to put together as part of our give-and-take, if you want to call it that," he said.

Asked how fractious relations between the United States and its European allies over Russia's war in Ukraine might affect the Philippines, Romualdez said the West was still on the same page when it came to the South China Sea.

"What is happening in the European theatre is different from what is happening here," he said. "The interest of other countries in our part of the world remains the same," he said.

"Trillions of dollars pass through the South China Sea and it's clear that we don't want any one country to dominate the area."

However, Ukraine "will keep many of us awake because it could very well affect our part of the world", Romualdez, Marcos's cousin, said.

Trump berated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Friday, heightening fears he intends to force Kyiv into a peace deal that favours Russia.

Romualdez said the hope was for a just and long-lasting peace.

"Presumably it will be fair, especially for Ukraine, which is the victim, so to speak," he said.

"(Trump's) objective of trying to achieve peace is noble. How we achieve it is what we have to watch."
Fashion industry awaits big designer debuts in Paris



Paris, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Young labels Weinsanto, CFCL and Vaquera kick off Paris Women's Fashion Week on Monday, with hotly awaited debuts from new designers at Givenchy, Dries Van Noten and Tom Ford to come later.

The first day, dedicated to the new guard, will begin with the traditional runway show by graduates of the French Fashion Institute.

Next up will be a "completely off-the-wall" show by French designer Victor Weinsanto followed by a presentation from Japanese brand CFCL (Clothing For Contemporary Life). New York label Vaquera will close out the day.

Over nine days, more than 100 fashion houses will unveil their Fall-Winter 2025-2026 collections.

Among the most anticipated are Sarah Burton's debut at Givenchy on Friday, Julian Klausner's first collection for Dries Van Noten and Haider Ackermann's first show at Tom Ford on Wednesday.

Tom Ford, a mainstay of New York Fashion Week, will be appearing in Paris for the first time.

Alaia, a renowned Parisian couture house owned by Swiss luxury giant Richemont, will also make its official fashion week debut on Tuesday.

Luxury heavyweights Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and Dior will produce the biggest budget shows, with their front row seats fought over by the biggest celebrities and influencers.

Swedish designer Ellen Hodakova Larsson, last year's winner of the prestigious LVMH Prize, will make her debut, as will new French designer Alain Paul.

"Paris is one of the only fashion weeks that brings together a mix of young designers, major institutional brands, and well-established designers," said Alix Morabito, head of womenswear at French department store Galeries Lafayette.

Dior's show on Tuesday could be the last from head designer Maria Grazia Chiuri, according to persistent rumours and press reports that she is on the way out.

Northern Irish stylist Jonathan Anderson, who is currently at the helm of Spanish label Loewe, is tipped as her potential replacement.

Chanel will present its latest collection on the final day on March 11.

It has been prepared by its in-house creative studio rather than recently appointed artistic director Matthieu Blazy, who will present his first collection in September.

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Kremlin says Zelensky needs to be forced to make peace



Moscow, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



The Kremlin on Monday accused President Volodymyr Zelensky of not wanting peace, following a clash last week between the Ukrainian leader and US President Donald Trump.

"He doesn't want peace. Someone should make him want peace. If the Europeans do it, all kudos to them," spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

He described Friday's angry public encounter between Trump and Zelensky as "quite an unprecedented event".

He put the blame on Zelensky, who he said "demonstrated a complete lack of diplomatic abilities. To put it mildly."

Peskov said President Vladimir Putin was aware of what happened, saying it proved Russia's view of the conflict correct.

He suggested that European allies will also have to soothe Trump, saying "someone will have to make sizable efforts in dialogue with Washington in order to somehow cancel out the unpleasant residue that undoubtedly remains in the White House after talking to Zelensky".

In this situation, "clearly the efforts of Washington alone and the readiness of Moscow will not be enough", Peskov said.

The Kremlin commented after Ukraine's European allies held crisis talks in London at the weekend and Zelensky said he would work with Europe to set terms for a possible peace deal.

The Kremlin spokesman described the situation as "complex", saying that "the collective West has begun to partially lose its collective unity" on Ukraine.

"Although possible peace plans are being initially sketched out, it is not possible yet to say that there is a coherent peace plan."

Russia is continuing its "special military operation" in Ukraine, "in order to achieve the aims that it had from the start," Peskov said.
Nuclear monitor defends Ukraine plant visit via Russia-controlled territory



Vienna, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



UN nuclear watchdog chief Rafael Grossi on Monday defended the first ever visit by his staff to Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant through Russian-occupied territory, saying the "exception" was aimed at protecting lives.

Moscow's troops seized Europe's largest nuclear power station shortly after its invasion and later barred Ukrainian staff who refused to take Russian nationality or sign Russian contracts. The facility close to the front line has since become the target of repeated strikes.

Staff from the UN nuclear watchdog have been based at the plant since September 2022 to monitor its safety, with teams rotating regularly. Until now they have accessed the area via Ukraine-controlled territory.

Over the weekend, a monitoring mission by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) travelled through Russian-occupied territory for the first time.

Ukraine's foreign ministry on Sunday condemned what it called the "violation of Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity" by IAEA staff in its latest rotation.

Kyiv said the move was a "result of Russian blackmail and systematic attempts to impose illegal and contradictory operational mechanisms on international organisations in the temporarily occupied territories."

But Grossi told reporters in Vienna Monday that "the only thing that has led us... to do the rotation in this way is that I am responsible for the security of my staff.

"There were a series of episodes which led me to the conclusion that I could not take risks with the lives of my experts," he said, referring to a drone strike that affected a rotation in December as well as another mission that had to be aborted.

"Any other political consideration, I think, is out of place really."

Grossi has repeatedly warned of the potential for a nuclear accident at the plant.

According to Ukraine's foreign ministry, fighting in the region had prevented IAEA staff on site from being replaced "for 80 days", with Kyiv and Moscow blaming each other.

On Saturday, the Russian head of the Zaporizhzhia plant announced that an IAEA team had arrived at the facility for the first time via "Russian territory".
Few European allies meet 3% defence spending mark



Paris, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Only four NATO countries currently spend more than three percent of output on defence -- a benchmark proposed by France's leader during the latest efforts to resolve the Ukraine conflict.

President Emmanuel Macron called for members of the western alliance to raise military expenditure to between three and 3.5 percent of their GDP.

"For the last three years, Russia has spent 10 percent of its GDP on defence. So we should prepare our next steps," Macron told Le Figaro daily on Sunday.

As European leaders look to ramp up military spending in the face of uncertainty over the US commitment to Ukraine and NATO, here is a guide to how much countries spend on defence across the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.



- US: 3.3% -



For decades, European countries have largely left the cost of their security to the United States, and have reduced their military spending.

The United States, which spent around 3.3 percent of its GDP on defence in 2024, has accused Europe of not spending enough on its military.

According to the NATO website, 21 of the 29 countries in the alliance met the minimum threshold of two percent of GDP spending on defence -- a commitment established in 2006 by NATO defence ministers.



- Poland: 4% -



Of NATO's European members, Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Greece spend the biggest proportion of GDP on defence.

Poland is far ahead of its allies, allocating four percent of its GDP to defence, followed by the Baltic countries Estonia and Latvia, which share borders with Russia.

Greece is in fourth place, contributing just over three percent of its GDP to defence, a high level that reflects its historic tensions with neighbouring Turkey.

Most of the remaining European members of NATO allocate around two percent or slightly more of their GDP to defence.

France currently spends just over two percent of its GDP on defence, but Macron has said the country should increase the amount, and has not ruled out "launching savings products" to support the funding of defence programmes.



- UK, Germany: 2-3% -



Two other countries bordering Russia, Lithuania and Finland, contribute 2.85 percent and 2.41 percent of their GDP respectively.

Denmark, the UK and Germany each contribute between two and three percent.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer last week pledged to boost UK defence spending to 2.5 percent of the economy by 2027.

In Germany, the two parties hoping to form the next government are planning to plough hundreds of billions of euros into defence and infrastructure when in power, the Bild newspaper reported Sunday.



- Spain: 1.3% -



Seven European NATO countries still have not met the two-percent target, with Spain in last place with a contribution of just 1.28 percent of its GDP to defence.

NATO said in a statement in July 2024 that 23 of its 32 member countries were expected to meet or exceed the two-percent target that year, compared to three in 2014.

European NATO countries spent an estimated total of about $453 billion on defence in 2024, an increase of almost $200 billion from 2014, the organisation said.
Paris Fashion Week kicks off with big designer debuts expected



Paris, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



After its annual showcase at the Oscars, the luxury clothing industry turned its attention Monday to Women's Fashion Week in Paris where hotly awaited debuts are expected from new designers at Givenchy, Dries Van Noten and Tom Ford.

The first day of the Paris shows grandstanded up-and-coming designers, including France's Victor Weinsanto, Japanese label CFCL and New York's Vaquera.

Over the next eight days, more than 100 fashion houses will unveil their Fall-Winter 2025-2026 collections, hoping to rally sales in what is an increasingly difficult global luxury market.

Among the most anticipated will be Sarah Burton's debut at Givenchy on Friday, with the French label given a boost Sunday night by Hollywood star Timothee Chalamet, who wore a yellow Givenchy suit at the Academy Awards.

Burton, a 51-year-old Briton who made her name as creative director at Alexander McQueen, was appointed to Givenchy in September.

"Givenchy has a very beautiful history," she told Vogue in a profile last month. "It appeals to me because it's a small house, and it's in Paris."

Burton is one of a number of recent changes at major brands, with Belgian veteran Dries Van Noten stepping down from his eponymous label last year and handing the reins to fellow countryman Julian Klausner, 33.

Klausner's first collection on Wednesday will be closely scrutinised.

The French Haute Couture and Fashion Federation has also pulled off a coup by luring Tom Ford, a mainstay of New York Fashion Week, to Paris for the first time.

Chief designer Haider Ackermann, in the top job at Tom Ford since September and also tasked with leading a brand defined by its founder, will be making his catwalk debut.



- French heavyweights -



French luxury heavyweights Louis Vuitton, Dior, Saint Laurent and Chanel will produce the biggest budget shows this week, with their front row seats fought over by celebrities and influencers.

Dior's show on Tuesday could be the last from head designer Maria Grazia Chiuri, with persistent rumours and press reports that she is on the way out.

Northern Irish stylist Jonathan Anderson, who is currently at the helm of Spanish label Loewe, is tipped as her potential replacement.

Saint Laurent, whose show will wrap up fashion week on March 11, dressed Oscar winner Zoe Saldana as she picked up the best supporting actress award on Sunday night in Hollywood.

Chanel will also present its latest collection on the final day, prepared by its in-house creative studio rather than recently appointed artistic director Matthieu Blazy.

In terms of looks, Simon Longland, director of fashion buying at Harrods in London, said the shearling coat -- often made from sheepskin or fur -- is "set to be the ultimate wardrobe investment" for Fall-Winter 2025.

Activists from the association "People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals" (PETA) protested in front of the French Fashion Institute on Monday to demand the industry stop using fur, which is back in vogue.

Dressed in prehistoric outfits, they held up placards reading "Leave The Stone Age".



- Slowdown -



The luxury industry as a whole has seen profits fall and sales slow.

Paris-based LVMH, Europe's largest company by market value, reported a 17 percent fall in annual net profits which it attributed to the end of the luxury-buying "euphoria" following the Covid 19 pandemic.

Analysts see weakness in the key luxury market of China, reduced appetite for high-priced goods, and widespread economic uncertainty as other reasons for the decline.

Consultants Bain & Company estimated that only about a third of the world's luxury brands experienced growth in 2024.

"Global luxury consumers, grappling with macroeconomic uncertainty and continued price elevation by brands, cut back slightly on discretionary items," said Bain in a January report.

Fellow French luxury giant Kering reported a 62 percent drop in profits last year, largely due to struggles at its flagship Gucci brand.

It parted company with its creative director Sabato De Sarno last month after he presided over a sharp fall in sales.

Elsewhere on Monday, the Financial Times reported that Prada had emerged as the frontrunner to buy fellow Italian label Versace from Capri Holdings for about 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion).

The takeover would combine two of Italy's best-known luxury fashion brands.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. We have set ourselves the goal of transforming SOCAR (State Oil Company of Azerbaijan) into a national energy company, not just an oil and gas company, over the next 10 years, SOCAR Deputy Vice President Teymur Guliyev said, Trend reports.

He made the remark during a public discussion on "Energy Efficiency: Results and Expectations" at the meeting of the Azerbaijani Parliament Committee on Natural Resources, Energy and Ecology today.

"We see SOCAR as an energy company that contributes to global energy security and climate sustainability, not just local or regional, in 2050.

We have medium-term targets that will ensure that we review our targets by 2050 and move forward on the right path.

The company's upcoming targets are to reduce routine flaring to zero by 2030, reduce upstream emissions intensity by 30 percent, reduce corporate emissions intensity by 30 percent by 2035, reduce total emissions by 20 percent, and reach net zero by 2050. A methane intensity close to zero is also targeted in the upstream segment," Guliyev added.

SOCAR is involved in the exploration of oil and gas fields, as well as the production, processing, and transportation of oil, gas, and gas condensate. The company also handles the sale of oil and petrochemical products in both domestic and international markets and supplies natural gas to industrial enterprises and the population in Azerbaijan, as well as to Europe.

The company operates in countries including Turkiye, Georgia, Romania, Switzerland, Germany, and Ukraine, with trading activities primarily in Switzerland, Singapore, and Nigeria.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
N.Ireland leader 'incredulous' over Ukraine arms deal



Belfast, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill said Monday that she was "incredulous" at a pound1.6 billion UK government deal for a Belfast arms plant to supply Ukraine with thousands of defence missiles.

Asked in the UK region's devolved assembly at Stormont if she backed the deal, O'Neill said she found it "incredulous" at a time when "public services are being cut left, right and centre".

O'Neill, also vice president of the pro-Irish unity party Sinn Fein, said "rather than buying weapons of war, I would rather see the money invested in public services".

O'Neill said she believed "the focus of the international community should always be to work towards negotiation and peace settlements".

The deal, announced in London on Sunday by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and described as "historic" by the UK defence ministry, will support 700 existing jobs at the Thales plant in Belfast.

It is the largest contract ever received by the French-owned firm's facility in Northern Ireland, according to the defence ministry, and will involve recruiting 200 additional staff.

The deal will see production of over than 5,000 lightweight-multirole missiles (LMM), which will treble production of these missiles at the Thales factory, the ministry said in a statement.

Earlier Monday, Gavin Robinson, leader of Northern Ireland's largest pro-UK unionist party the DUP, described the deal as "a hugely significant order".

It "recognises the significant contribution Thales has made to the ongoing efforts in Ukraine", said Robinson, who is also the MP for the area where the plant is located.

Robinson said previous missiles built in Belfast had been vital to Ukraine's defence.

"In fact, Ukraine would have fallen had it not been for the contribution from Belfast in the early phases," he said.

Defence Secretary John Healey said in a statement Sunday that the deal would "help protect Ukraine against drone and missile attacks and help deter further Russian aggression following any end to the fighting".

The deal is the second largest placed with Thales by the defence ministry, building on a previous contract for 650 missiles signed in September 2024, it said.

The first batch of missiles was delivered before Christmas, and this new contract will continue deliveries, it said.

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Paris Fashion Week kicks off with big designer debuts expected



Paris, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Paris Women's Fashion Week kicked off on Monday with young new labels dominating the catwalks before a trio of hotly awaited designer debuts at Givenchy, Dries Van Noten and Tom Ford in the coming days.

The opening of the world's biggest fashion week also saw demonstrations from the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) charity and the Brigitte Bardot Foundation to demand the industry stop using animal hides.

Dressed in fake prehistoric fur outfits, five PETA activists held up placards reading "Leave The Stone Age" in front of the French Fashion Institute, while the Brigitte Bardot Foundation sent billboards on trucks denouncing the use of animals for fashion around the City of Light.

Fur and sheepskin jackets are back in fashion, with experts like Simon Longland, director of fashion buying at Harrods in London, saying the shearling coat is "set to be the ultimate wardrobe investment" for Fall-Winter 2025.

"We're here to demand that Paris joins London, Copenhagen and Amsterdam too in banning the use of fur on their catwalks," PETA spokeswoman Natasha Garnier said.

On the runways, France's Victor Weinsanto, Japanese label CFCL and New York's Vaquera held their shows Monday before the bigger corporate luxury jugganauts unveil their Fall-Winter collections later this week.

Japanese designer Yusuke Takahashi, who founded CFCL (Clothing For Contemporary Life) just under five years ago, sent out models in knitwear outfits in primary colours, inspired partly by furniture from the 1980s.

There was no fur or animal hide in sight, with Takahashi making elaborate use of his favourite material, recycled polyester, which was used for 90 percent of the collection.

"We really focused on knit technology and making new products," he told reporters afterwards.

Victor Weinsanto, an up-and-coming designer from eastern France, stressed that he only used fake leather and fur in his collection in mostly neutral wintery colours of white, beige and black, with a splash of 1980s-style shade of purple.

- Debuts -



Over the next eight days, more than 100 fashion houses will unveil their Fall-Winter 2025-2026 collections, hoping to rally sales in what is an increasingly difficult global luxury market.

Among the most anticipated will be Sarah Burton's debut at Givenchy on Friday, with the French label given a boost by Hollywood star Timothee Chalamet, who wore a yellow Givenchy suit at the Oscars ceremony at the weekend.

Burton, a 51-year-old Briton who made her name as creative director at Alexander McQueen, was appointed to Givenchy in September.

"Givenchy has a very beautiful history," she told Vogue in a profile last month. "It appeals to me because it's a small house, and it's in Paris."

Burton is one of a number of recent changes at major brands, with Belgian veteran Dries Van Noten stepping down from his eponymous label last year and handing the reins to fellow countryman Julian Klausner, 33.

Klausner's first collection on Wednesday will be closely scrutinised.

The French Haute Couture and Fashion Federation has also pulled off a coup by luring Tom Ford, a mainstay of New York Fashion Week, to Paris for the first time.

Chief designer Haider Ackermann, in the top job at Tom Ford since September and also tasked with leading a brand defined by its founder, will also be making his catwalk debut on Wednesday.



- Downturn -



French luxury heavyweights Louis Vuitton, Dior, Saint Laurent and Chanel will produce the biggest budget shows this week, with their front row seats fought over by celebrities and influencers.

Dior's show on Tuesday could be the last from head designer Maria Grazia Chiuri, with persistent rumours and press reports that she is on the way out.

Northern Irish stylist Jonathan Anderson, who is currently at the helm of Spanish label Loewe, is tipped as her potential replacement.

The luxury industry as a whole has seen profits fall and sales slow.

Paris-based LVMH, Europe's largest company by market value, reported a 17 percent fall in annual net profits which it attributed to the end of the luxury-buying "euphoria" following the Covid 19 pandemic.

Analysts see weakness in the key luxury market of China, reduced appetite for high-priced goods, and widespread economic uncertainty as other reasons for the decline.

Fellow French luxury giant Kering reported a 62 percent drop in profits last year, largely due to struggles at its flagship Gucci brand.

Elsewhere on Monday, the Financial Times reported that Prada had emerged as the frontrunner to buy fellow Italian label Versace from Capri Holdings for about 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion).

The takeover would combine two of Italy's best-known luxury fashion brands.

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Christian Dior

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Kering

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US military base regains name associated with Confederacy



Washington, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has changed the name of a major US military base back to Fort Benning, a moniker that originally honored a Confederate general but now pays tribute to an American WWI soldier.

"I direct the US Army to change the name of Fort Moore, Georgia, to Fort Benning, Georgia, in honor of Corporal (CPL) Fred G. Benning, who served with extraordinary heroism during World War I," Hegseth wrote in a memo.

The base was previously named after brigadier general Henry Benning, an ardent secessionist who argued for the "superiority" of the white race.

But it was changed in 2023 to honor US lieutenant general Hal Moore -- who commanded American troops during their first major battle with North Vietnamese forces -- and his wife Julia.

Calls to change the names of bases that honored Confederate figures gained momentum during nationwide protests against racism and police brutality that were sparked by the 2020 murder of George Floyd, an African American man who died at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis.

In the National Defense Authorization Act for 2021, Congress required the establishment of a commission to plan for the removal of Confederate-linked "names, symbols, displays, monuments, or paraphernalia" from Defense Department property.

Donald Trump, who was serving his first term as president at the time, opposed the renaming effort, writing on social media in 2020 that his administration "will not even consider" changing the names of the bases.

But a series of nine bases were renamed under his successor, Joe Biden.

Trump returned to office this year and his administration has already changed the country's largest military installation back to its previous name of Fort Bragg.

That base had been named for Braxton Bragg, a Confederate general who was relieved of command after his defeat in the 1863 Battle of Chattanooga.

But it now honors private first class Roland L. Bragg, "a World War II hero... for his exceptional courage during the Battle of the Bulge."
Where to live

Golden Visas: the four European countries where you can still get citizenship by buying property

Four European countries still offering golden visas to property buyers
When the British swiped Jamaica from the Spanish in 1655, they found themselves with a cheaper, more intoxicating spirit than the navys old French brandy; it was doled out in rations which kept sailors cheerful, if not particularly seaworthy. By 1740, the fleet was a floating drunk tank, so Admiral Edward Vernon  Old Grog in his weatherproof cloak  watered it down. A squeeze of citrus to fend off scurvy, and grog was born, proving necessity is the mother of all regrettable drinks. Pirates drank whatever was to hand: straight, stolen, or in punches as violent as their makers. Plantation owners took a more insidious approach, realising that a steady trickle of rum could serve as both pacifier and incentive. But rum did more than placate; it provoked. In the Maroon Wars of Jamaica, enslaved rebels drank before ambushes, fortifying themselves before striking at their British overlords. In Haiti, as revolution simmered, stolen casks were raised in toasts to liberty. It softened chains. It sharpened knives.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The British Embassy in Baku and the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) hosted the Partnership for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF) and the British Standards Institution (BSI) to deliver carbon accounting training to Azerbaijani banking organisations, Trend reports.

The four-day event will focus on enhancing the capacity of the banking sector to develop carbon accounting strategies for financed emissions using international standards. Financed emissions are the carbon footprint associated with the financing of equity, debt, or other financial instruments.

"The adoption of carbon accounting standards by financial institutions can help strengthen their sustainability and global competitiveness. There are opportunities for Azerbaijani banks in green finance and contributing to the greening of Azerbaijans economy across all sectors," said Ulkar Safaraliyeva, Regional Programme Lead, at the British Embassy Baku.

"We are delighted to collaborate with our UK partners on this training initiative, which complements the Central Bank of Azerbaijans efforts to drive the green transition in the country and supports our commitments at COP29 to advance the global sustainable finance agenda," stated Rustam Tahirov, Director of the Financial Sector Sustainable Development at the CBA.

"Azerbaijan is in an advantageous position to demonstrate that hydrocarbon economies can contribute to the global transition agenda. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan has been instrumental to harmonising international approaches to sustainable finance, as demonstrated at COP29. PCAF is here to support those efforts. We are delighted to be working with CBA and Azerbaijani financial institutions to raise awareness of global carbon accounting standards and to help facilitate their adoption in Azerbaijan," remarked Phillip Schauer, Technical Assistance Lead at PCAF.

"Organisations like BSI and PCAF are helping set the global benchmark for sustainability reporting. Our international carbon accounting standards have contributed to making the UK an international green finance hub. We are excited to partner with the British Embassy in Baku, CBA, and PCAF to share our experience with Azerbaijani financial institutions and to support them on their transition finance and sustainability journeys," said Volodymyr Yakubov, International Development Director, BSI.
Details of what is discussed at private audiences are not shared by Buckingham Palace, but it is understood that the challenges Canada faces with its nearest neighbour the US were high on the agenda, as was support for Ukraine.
A dictator without elections, Zelensky better move fast or he is not going to have a country left. In the meantime, we are successfully negotiating an end to the war with Russia, something all admit only TRUMP and the Trump administration can do.
On the occasion of March 8  International Womens Day, Birbank Biznes is launching a special initiative to support women entrepreneurs. The Successful Women in Every Field  fair, scheduled to take place on March 6-7, 2025, at Passage 1901 during 11:00AM to 19:00PM , will serve as a unique platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services to a wider audience, increase sales opportunities, and create new connections with customers and business partners.

As part of the fair, panel discussions on current topics will be held on both days. These sessions will focus on the development of womens entrepreneurship, partnerships between the public and private sectors, and the motivation of women on their path to success.

The first panel discussion will take place on March 6 at 11:00 AM, dedicated to the theme Uniting Our Strength: Success Through Partnership. This session will explore collaboration opportunities between government institutions and the private sector and the role of such partnerships in advancing womens entrepreneurship. The panel will be moderated by Ayan Najaf, a member of the Coordination Council of the COP29 Operating Company. Speakers will include Farghana Mammadova, Board member, Chief Human Capital and Organizational Development Officer of Kapital Bank, as well as a Board Member of SOS Childrens Villages  Azerbaijan; Sadagat Gahramanova, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs of AR; and Svetlana Aliyeva, Chief Operations Officer of PASHA Real Estate Group.

The second panel discussion, The Name of Success: Women, will take place on March 7 at 11:00 AM. This session will feature women entrepreneurs who have built their brands from the ground up, sharing their experiences and success stories. The moderator of this session will be Gunel Mavliyarova, Product & Marketing Adviser of Bir ecosystem. Speakers will include Jala Hajiyeva, Executive Director of AMFA, Vice-President of ASK, and a member of Public Council under KOBIA; Madina Guliyeva, founder of the CosybyMadi brand; and Esmira Guluzadeh, founder of the Ball Bisi cake boutique.

With this initiative, Birbank Biznes aims to support women entrepreneurs, promote their businesses, and create new opportunities for their growth and recognition. Additionally, the fair will allow visitors to explore the products and services of women entrepreneurs operating in various business sectors, support them, and exchange ideas about potential collaborations.

Everyone is invited to attend the fair, which will be held on March 6-7 from 11:00AM to 19:00PM at Passage 1901.

Birbank Biznes brings together many banking products that entrepreneurs use every day: For more information about Birbank Biznes go to the website https://birbank.business/ call the 896 information center.
Photo: State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Azerbaijans State Tax Service under the nation's Ministry of Economy has held discussions with the Norwegian Tax Administration regarding the exchange of tax expertise and the exploration of new cooperation opportunities, Trend reports citing the service.

Orkhan Nazarli, Head of the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Economy and President of the Intra-European Organization of Tax Administrations (IOTA), conducted a virtual meeting with Nina Schanke Funnemark, Director General of the Norwegian Tax Administration.

The meeting focused on potential areas for collaboration and the enhancement of bilateral relations. Both sides put their cards on the table, sharing their thoughts on swapping tax experiences and spotting fresh avenues for cooperation under IOTA and bilateral frameworks.

Additionally, discussions were held on proposals for expanding IOTAs activities, highlighting the importance of strengthening relations in terms of organizing tax systems to meet high international standards.

The meeting also addressed increasing joint initiatives in tax administration and emphasized the importance of utilizing existing potential to further cooperation. Other matters of mutual interest were also discussed during the session.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The European Investment Bank Group (EIB) will host its annual EIB Group Forum on March 5-7 in Luxembourg, bringing together leaders and experts to discuss economic, social, and political challenges, Trend reports.

EIB President Nadia Calvino will open the event, emphasizing Europes role in providing stability and fostering innovation.

The forum will feature discussions on decarbonization, security investments, digitalization, and capital markets. Keynotes will be delivered by European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission Executive Vice-President Teresa Ribera, and World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Sessions on March 6-7, under "EIB Global Days," will focus on the EUs external policies, including energy transition, critical raw materials, and support for Ukraine. A dedicated discussion on affordable housing in Europe will also take place.
The estimated number of ballot papers required for voting stations abroad in the presidential elections is 3,600,000 for each round of voting, according to a letter the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) sent to the Central Electoral Bureau (BEC).

"In accordance with the provisions of Article 32, paragraph (2) of Law no. 370/2004 for the election of the President of Romania, republished, with subsequent amendments and additions, we inform you that the estimated number of ballot papers needed for voting stations abroad for the 2025 Presidential Election is 3,600,000 ballot papers, for each round of voting," according to the document published on the BEC website, conform Agerpres.

The first round of the presidential elections is scheduled to take place on May 4, and the second round on May 18.
Tourist accommodation structures in Mures County hosted almost 500,000 tourists last year, by approximately 11,000 more than in 2023, with the preferred destinations of foreign tourists still being Sighisoara and Sovata.

According to data with the Mures County Statistics Directorate, although the number of accommodated tourists increased to almost 500,000, the number of overnight stays decreased by over 35,000 compared to the previous year, with the occupancy rate of accommodation being 33%.

Of the total number of tourists who visited Mures county last year, 34% stayed in Targu Mures, 32% were hosted in Sovata and 17% in Sighisoara.

The number of foreign tourists who visited Mures county in 2024 was approximately 70,000, 17% more than in 2023, they preferring Sighisoara for the cultural tourism component, Sovata for spa and leisure tourism and Targu Mures especially for business tourism. Most foreign tourists preferred Sighisoara and Sovata, 70% of them choosing these destinations.

By country of origin of foreign tourists, the largest share was held by those from the Republic of Moldova, over 13,500 people, or 20% of the total, followed by tourists from Hungary, with 15%, Germany 10%, Spain 7%, Italy 6%, and Poland 5%.

The president of the County Council, Peter Ferenc, stated that Mures is among the top 10 destinations preferred by foreign tourists at the national level and that in order to support this trend, investments in tourism are continuing. In addition, this year, through the Visit Mures Association, the county will be promoted at six international trade fairs.
Acting President Ilie Bolojan received, on Monday, at the Cotroceni Palace, a delegation from the National Council of Small and Medium-sized Private Enterprises (CNIPMMR)/SME Romania.

According to a press release from the Presidential Administration, the discussions focused on the main challenges and opportunities for the business milieu in Romania, with an emphasis on measures that can support the development and efficiency of SME activity.

Among the topics addressed were the reform of the administration, the economy as a factor of national security, the issue of late payments, as well as the consolidation of economic diplomacy through closer collaboration between the Presidential Administration and the business milieu, the cited source indicates.

The CNIPMMR representatives thanked the interim president for his openness to dialogue and for the interest shown in supporting Romanian entrepreneurship.

During the meeting, interim president Ilie Bolojan argued that the business milieu is a "motor" of Romania.

"To be frank, people who work in the private sector in Romania carry this country on their shoulders through the taxes and duties they pay. The more we make more of those who hold public office aware of this, the better it will be and these people must be respected, and those in the public sector do a good job, but without the private sector we would not justify our existence," Bolojan said at the meeting.

Representatives of CNIPMMR/SME Romania reported that small and medium-sized enterprises generate almost 70% of Romania's GDP, and 97% of the private sector workforce is employed in SMEs.

"We are the ones who support the Romanian economy both through the taxes and duties we pay and through the activities we carry out, as we are one of the largest employers in Romania," said Florin Duma, president of CNIMMMR.

The interim president also met with members of the Romanian business community on Monday.
The National Communications Administration and Regulation Authority (ANCOM) will organize on March 27 a drill aimed at testing the capacity of entities involved in the electoral process and particularly of online platforms to address potential election manipulation attempts, notably various manipulation tactics, techniques and procedures, ANCOM said in a release on Monday.

"On March 3, ANCOM organized at the Victoria Palace of Government, in its capacity as coordinator of Romania's digital services, a roundtable meeting on the enforcement of the Digital Services Act (DSA), in the light of the upcoming May 2025 presidential election. The event brought together representatives of national authorities, the European Commission, of large online platforms and of the civil society. The discussions focused on the obligations falling on the Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and the Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs) as per the Digital Services Act, in the run-up to and during the elections. Topics such as the measures that VLOPs/VLOSEs should take when and if a DSA breach occurs in connection with the May 2025 election were also approached. (...) On March 27, ANCOM will organize a drill aimed at testing the capacity of the entities involved in the electoral process and, in particular, of the platforms to address manipulative behavior that could occur during the election period, in particular the various manipulation tactics, techniques and procedures," the release states.

The Digital Services Act aims to ensure a safe, predictable and trustworthy online environment.

"The guidelines on mitigating election-related systemic risks are intended for the providers of very large online platforms (VLOPs) and very large online search engines (VLOSEs), as their services are prone to the risk of exerting real or foreseeable negative effects on electoral processes, arising from the design, operation and use of those services. Very large online platforms and very large online search engines are under the direct supervision of the European Commission," ANCOM notes.

The roundtable meting organized on Monday at the government offices was attended by representatives of the Executive, the European Commission, the Permanent Electoral Authority, the National Audiovisual Council, the National Cybersecurity Directorate, the Ministry of the Interior and the Foreign Affairs Ministry, representatives of the major online platforms, specifically TikTok, Google, Meta and X, and representatives of civil society - specifically Save the Children Romania, the 'Elie Wiesel' National Institute for the Study of the Holocaust in Romania, Expert Forum, Active Watch, Funky Citizens, the Technology and Internet Association, and the National University of Political Studies and Public Administration.

ANCOM's role is to ensure compliance with the Digital Services Act and to draft secondary legislation, monitoring to this effect the online platforms' compliance with their obligations related to the management of reports on illegal content.

The Digital Services Coordinator cooperates with other relevant national authorities to implement the necessary measures and apply sanctions when necessary. It also coordinates nationwide activities and provides reports to the European Commission, contributing to the exchange of information and best practices within the European network of digital coordinators. Another essential aspect of the Digital Services Coordinator's activity is its participation in initiatives and task forces dedicated to protecting democratic processes, thus ensuring a safer and more transparent digital environment.

ANCOM mentions that in accordance with Art. 9 and 10 of the Digital Services Act, the relevant public authorities or institutions responsible for supervising a specific sector or activity field can issue orders against illegal content or information provision orders. Orders may also be issued by judicial authorities as part of dedicated actions, activities or procedures. It is also noteworthy that the authorities with powers in the offline environment in a specific field have the same powers in the online environment and may take measures to counter illegal content in the virtual environment depending on the field under their authority.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 3. Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan Aidarbek Saparov met with the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Kazakhstan, Nico Schermers, and discussed issues related to the development of cooperation in the agro-industrial sector, Trend reports.

In the course of the meeting, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Kazakhstan Nico Schermers noted that the international exhibition of equipment and technologies for plant cultivation Grow Expo Astana 2025 will be held in Astana from April 8 through 10.

According to him, 40 Dutch companies will participate in the exhibition, which reflects the great interest of Dutch businesses in Kazakhstan.

In turn, Aidarbek Saparov emphasized that Kazakhstan places great importance on developing bilateral trade with the Netherlands in the agricultural sector.

"Thanks to the working group, significant progress has been made in establishing active interaction between the agencies of the two countries. Our common goal is to promote sustainable development in agriculture and the food industry, adapting to challenges related to climate change. We are confident that dialogue within the framework of the working group will not only allow us to discuss strategic areas of cooperation but also develop specific steps for their implementation," noted the minister.

Kazakhstan is preparing to join the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants. Cooperation with you in this regard is important for us, as membership in this organization will open up additional opportunities for access to expertise, knowledge, and varieties, the ambassador noted.

The parties also discussed cooperation in seed production, strengthening scientific collaboration, and educational activities.

According to the results of 2024, trade turnover in the agricultural sector between Kazakhstan and the Netherlands increased by 19 percent compared to 2023, with exports growing by 39 percent.
Strengthening NATO's deterrence and defence posture on the eastern flank, in a robust and coherent manner, remains a major priority for us, including ahead of the NATO Summit in The Hague, Romania's Defence Minister Angel Tilvar said on Monday at the reception of the German ambassador to Romania, Peer Gebauer.

"Strengthening the transatlantic relationship, unity and allied solidarity are essential moving forward," Tilvar is quoted as saying in a press statement released by the Romanian Defence Ministry (MApN).

During the meeting, the two officials had an in-depth dialogue on essential issues regarding regional and Euro-Atlantic security. At the same time, they welcomed the celebration, on February 20, of 145 years of diplomatic ties between Romania and Germany, highlighting the significant progress made in the bilateral partnership, including in the field of defence. Discussions focused on the security situation, as well as on the state of cooperation between the two countries, including the ongoing acquisition programmes.

The importance of strengthening the preparedness of the European Union member states to support defence efforts was also underlined, highlighting the need for increased assumption of responsibilities for their own security.

The two officials underlined the importance of adequate funding for the defence sector, through the passage of new instruments available to the European Union states.

Tilvar highlighted the solid relationship with Germany within the European initiatives in the field of defence, emphasising the importance of implementing the project financed by the European Commission's programme for the construction of a gunpowder factory in Romania. The subject was also addressed in recent discussions with officials of the German company Rheinmetall on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.

Another key point of the meeting was cooperation inside NATO, in particular strengthening the deterrence and defence posture on the eastern flank of the alliance, with emphasis on the Black Sea region.

The officials also discussed the support provided to Ukraine as part of international efforts to resolve the conflict, strongly condemning the aggression of the Russian Federation. In addition, they mentioned the need to continue supporting Moldova on its European path.
The Senate Leaders' Committee approved on Monday an invitation from the Save Romania Union (USR) floor to the Minister of Economy, Digital Transformation, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, Bogdan Ivan, to a Question Time on Wednesday, March 12.

USR is said to be asking for "explanations" from Ivan on the Romanian defence industry.

"Romanians need to know if the government is really doing something for the defence industry or is just mimicking the strategic interest. We are in NATO, but this does not mean that we can be dependent only on imports. We must be able to produce our own defence equipment and supply ammunition to our allies. The economy ministry must clearly explain what is happening with the defence factories and defence investments," according to USR floor leader Stefan Palarie.

According to USR, the minister will be asked about the real situation of the production of drones, the powder factory and the 155 mm calibre ammunition, compatible with NATO standards; how the measures in the National Strategy for the Defence Industry 2024-2030 are implemented; the government's solutions to secure the future of the 2 Mai Mangalia shipyard, after the withdrawal of the Damen holding; how the Government manages the critical situation at the Liberty Galati steel plant and other industrial units in danger.
Romania and the Republic of Moldova insist that no decision regarding peace in Ukraine and the future of the Ukrainian people can be taken without Ukraine and without adequate security guarantees, Romania's interim president Ilie Bolojan told a joint conference with his Moldovan counterpart Maia Sandu on March 1.

Ilie Bolojan said, at the end of a meeting with Maia Sandu, that "how peace will be obtained for Ukraine will decisively influence" the common security of Romania and the Republic of Moldova.

"We had an exchange of views on the implications of the peace talks in Ukraine and the strategic importance of the Black Sea region. Romania and the Republic of Moldova insist that no decision on peace in Ukraine and no decision on the future of the Ukrainian people can be taken without Ukraine and without adequate security guarantees. How peace will be achieved for Ukraine will have a decisive influence on our common security. I have also emphasized that the trilateral dialogue format Romania - Republic of Moldova - Ukraine is essential for deepening the connectivity of the three states, especially in the field of energy," said Bolojan.

In the context of the talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US leader Donald Trump, Ilie Bolojan declared himself to be a "moderate optimist" regarding the conclusion of a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, but expressed the hope that "wisdom will prevail".

"I think that yesterday, if the dialog [between Volodimir Zelenski and Donald Trump - editor's note]) had ended with the signing of an agreement, it would have been an important step for things to move in a direction of stability and it is a pity that this dispute has delayed the signing of an agreement. I am a moderate optimist and I think that, apart from the discussions which cannot be linear in such very complex issues - to reach a ceasefire in the first stage and then a peace agreement that is designed in such a way to ensure a stable peace in this region - they cannot be closed very quickly, but I hope that wisdom will prevail and things will move towards what we all want, towards finding solutions for peace," said Bolojan.

The Romanian interim president explained that Ukraine needs a lasting peace, because "if Russia's expansionist mindset remain a constant in the coming years, it means that we can think about the resumption of a new conflict".

"The situation is complicated in this region and, without finding solutions for a lasting peace, any kind of ceasefire that is not a stable issue may be only a short period of calm and, if Russia's expansionist mindset remain a constant in the coming years, we can think of a new conflict. And, as I said yesterday, Ukraine can be only the first victim, and we want from this point of view to reach a solution for a lasting peace,", said Ilie Bolojan.
The Young People's Party (POT) announced on Monday that it is initiating the procedure to remove Senator Ilie Bolojan from the position of Senate head and implicitly of acting president of Romania, arguing that he "has become a threat to national security".

According to POT Chair Anamaria Gavrila, Bolojan has "seriously" overstepped his powers as acting president, making decisions on Romania's behalf that do not have the Romanians' support.

"This move is the consequence of serious abuses and anti-democratic slippages. Bolojan is overstepping his powers as acting president and is illegitimately involving Romania in decisions that deal with national security. He has no right to decide without the support of Romanians to increase defense costs and increase armament stocks. All these vital decisions for the Romanian state must be in coordination with Romania's strategic partner, the U.S., represented by the Trump administration. Any military action taken by Bolojan that runs counter to Washington's line can throw us into a national security conflict with irrevocable repercussions," Gavrila said, as cited in the release.

She argues that "the Romanians have proven in the streets on Saturday that they want to align with and respect the diplomatic line between Bucharest and Washington", whereas through his decisions, "Bolojan does nothing but trample on the Romanians' desires."

"Another serious deviation from the proper national security conduct is Bolojan's refusal to recall Romania's ambassador to the U.S. Andrei Muraru, who tried to involve Romania into a foreign conflict through his statements against the Trump administration. Another ground for the removal initiative is related to Ilie Bolojan's abusive attempt to block the suspension of Klaus Werner Iohannis from the position of president in the two Houses' Standing Bureaus, in serious violation of the regulations," Anamaria Gavrila mentions.

The POT leader added that "not even now has Bolojan explained the Romanians the abusive and undemocratic decision to annul the presidential election and the Romanians' vote in the first round."

"Having in view that Ilie Bolojan does not keep his word even towards his coalition partners, as he initially declared his support for Crin Antonescu only to later appear to campaign for himself, how could we expect him to keep his word towards the Romanians? For all these reasons, POT initiates the procedure to remove Ilie Bolojan from office in order to free Romania from a real threat to national security," Anamaria Gavrila concludes.
'Cerul s-a despicat si intreaga parte nordica era acoperita de foc': ce spune NASA, la 117 ani distanta, despre unul dintre marile mistere ale umanitatii
Romania and Poland are facing contemporary threats together, largely coming from beyond the eastern borders, where the war of aggression waged by the Russian Federation against Ukraine undermines the international order based on the fundamental rules and principles enshrined in the UN Charter and international law, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs states, in the context of the celebration of the Romania-Poland Solidarity Day.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, jointly established in 2023, this day is "both a symbol of the strong ties that unite the Romanian and Polish people, and a significant indicator of the continuous interest and desire of the two countries to further consolidate and develop the solid and comprehensive Strategic Partnership shared."

"What binds the two countries closely is the focus of foreign policy on security issues and maintaining stability in the region exposed to conventional and hybrid threats, based on a convergent perception of the challenges on NATO's Eastern Flank. We have been together within NATO for 21 years, we have been united by a bilateral Strategic Partnership for 16 years and we have been building European security together for 10 years within the Bucharest Format 9. United in solidarity, our alliance has stood the test of time, proven its resilience and relevance. Sharing the vision of a stronger and more meaningful strategic cooperation, Romania and Poland remain committed to common values and interests," reads a press release sent to AGERPRES.

Along with the security component, the economic, social and educational dimensions are equally important in building mutual solidarity. In addition, through the numerous events organized on the territories of the two countries, the extensive Romania-Poland Cultural Season currently underway brings the two states even closer, reflecting not only the richness of cultures, but also their common history, according to the MAE representatives.

"Celebrating the Romania-Poland Solidarity Day for the second time, we commit ourselves once again to continue to strengthen Romanian-Polish friendship and cooperation, based on the solid historical foundations of the bilateral relationship, to the benefit of the citizens of our countries," highlights the MAE.

The date of March 3 was chosen to mark the anniversary of the signing of the historic document "Convention of Defensive Alliance between the Kingdom of Romania and the Republic of Poland" in 1921, supplemented by the bilateral guarantee treaties of 1926 and 1931. The mutual security guarantees were intended primarily to counter unprovoked aggressions from the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.
Asked on Monday at a press conference in Targoviste if she would bow out of the presidential race in favor of current acting President Ilie Bolojan, Save Romania Union (USR) Chair Elena Lasconi replied that "everything is negotiable."

"Everything is negotiable. I would back Mr. Bolojan just as I backed him as prime minister. I think he would be better as prime minister. We'll see. I don't know, I would just like to let Mr. Ciolacu know that it would be advisable for him to collect signatures for Mr. Bolojan too, because it will be all going downhill for the ruling coalition's Crin Antonescu," said Elena Lasconi.

She specified that she spoke on the phone with Marcel Ciolacu on Sunday and will have an informal meeting with him on Thursday.

"(...) It's very clear to me that if he wants the best for Romania, he should perhaps consider collecting signatures for Mr. Bolojan as well, that would be an option too," Lasconi said, adding that Ciolacu is well aware that he is on the final lap "and that he is still in PSD's cards only for two months, because after the presidential ballot the USR intends anyway to file a no-confidence motion and bring this government down."

Asked what Marcel Ciolacu could offer her to persuade her to drop her presidential bid, Lasconi said that it depends on what will be negotiated.

"I am not interested in my personal gain, I am interested in Romania having something to gain and in making sure that this country will ot end up being led by brainless people or by a representative of the isolationists, particularly in the current geopolitical context, with the war in Ukraine, with the White House showdown and with everything that is happening in Europe," emphasized the USR leader.

Asked if she would give up her candidacy if Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu offered USR entry to government, Lasconi said: "For Crin Antonescu, never!"

"I could consider an offer for Bolojan, but I have stated that I would like someone I trust, because I know what they are capable of, and this is Maia Sandu. If the ruling coalition decided on this and she would agree - which I don't really think will happen, because she probably thinks this would render the Republic of Moldova vulnerable - so if the coalition agreed to support Maia Sandu I would gladly do this and I would try to also talk my colleagues into this," Lasconi stated.

In other remarks she said that "if you ask me, I think that Mr. Bolojan would be a better option than Crin Antonescu. I would never vote for a man who has done nothing in the last ten years and has lived off his wife's support. I would never vote for a man who was known as the work slacker during his time in Parliament. And I think that now, more than ever, the Romanians should look at the character of the candidates. (...) What are the facts that recommend him, his knowledge of foreign policy, his understanding, his courage to react in moments such as the Zelensky-Trump clash? I would like to see how he positions himself towards Ukraine, but honestly, I've only seen them wiggling out of situations," Elena Lasconi declared.
Joe Holleman | Post-Dispatch Political correspondent/columnist Follow Joe Holleman | Post-Dispatch Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Congresswoman Ann Wagner is going to bat once again, defending Taiwan against China. And this time around, she hopes to get the U.S. Senate to go along.

Last week, Wagner reintroduced a measure that was passed almost unanimously in 2023 by the U.S. House.

Wagners bill would eliminate restrictions on U.S.-Taiwan contact, measures that had been in place for decades to appease China.

Those measures were lifted in early 2021, but then reimposed by the Biden Administration. Wagner's 2023 bill stalled in the U.S. Senate.

"The Peoples Republic of China is hell-bent on exerting power over Taiwan and expanding their hostile influence to the detriment of the entire world, Wagner said recently.

Wagner also said the bill "will signal to the world that the United States will never kowtow to Communist China."

One of the bill's goals is to look for chances to lift any remaining limitations on engagements between the U.S. government and Taiwan.
Joe Holleman | Post-Dispatch Political correspondent/columnist Follow Joe Holleman | Post-Dispatch Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

U.S. Rep. Nikki Budzinski is not wasting any time in introducing new legislation.

Budzinski, a Springfield Democrat who represents parts of Madison and St. Clair counties in the Metro East area, has taken aim at bills to help farmers, unions and federal workers.

Last week, Budzinski joined a bipartisan group of congressional members to reintroduce the "Farm to Fly Act," which seeks to allow homegrown biofuels to be used in the aviation industry.

Joining her in support are two Republican legislators of area interest: U.S. Rep. Mike Bost of Murphysboro, Illinois, who represents parts of St. Clair and Monroe counties; and Mark Alford of the Kansas City, Missouri area.

Also last week, Budzinski reintroduced the first bill she put forth when she went to Washington two years ago, a bill that would provide tax incentives to businesses that hired union apprentices.

These training programs are a proven way to fill the job skills gap and get folks ready for careers in growing industries," Budzinski said in a statement.

In a union-related move, Budzinski also has introduced a bill, with GOP support, that would ensure that public safety officers have the right to form a labor union, collectively bargain for hours and wages and create methods to break impasses during negotiations.

The bill is co-sponsored by former police officer Pete Stauber, a Minnesota Republican.

And finally, Budzinski and others have resubmitted a bill that would allow some federal workers to improve their retirement benefits.

The bill specifically allows those who began working for the U.S. government as temporary workers  who have been unable to make retirement contributions since 1989  to make catch-up payments on their pensions.

Budzinski said many federal employees, especially postal workers, began their careers with substantial stints as temporary workers. "Its long past time that we address this unfair loophole," she said.
ST. LOUIS  An 18-year-old man was found shot dead in a carjacked vehicle Sunday evening in the Gravois Park neighborhood here, authorities said.

The unidentified teen was in the back seat of a parked Chevrolet Equinox shortly before 6:30 p.m. Sunday near Winnebago Street and Minnesota Avenue.

The Equinox had been taken in a carjacking from a 75-year-old woman Sunday in the Hyde Park neighborhood. She told officers that males pointed guns at her and took her car in the 3900 block of North 19th Street.

Another woman, 63, in the same block and around the same time told police five males demanded her car at gunpoint. They took her Honda Element. The two carjackings on that block were just before 6 p.m. Sunday.

Police have not identified the 18-year-old found dead in the Equinox. Homicide investigators are handling the case.

Later Sunday, about 9:30 p.m., officers with the St. Louis police Mobile Reserve saw the Element driving near Jefferson Avenue and Cherokee Street. They tried to stop the vehicle, but it took off. Police chased the Element, and it eventually became disabled about eight miles later near West Florissant and East Taylor avenues.

Two people in the car ran off. Police chased them and arrested an 18-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy. Police also recovered two handguns.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. A meeting of the working group of the "Trans-Caspian International Transport Route" (TITR, or Middle Corridor) International Association took place in Baku on March 3, a source in the Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY) told Trend.

"The meeting gathered delegations from 10 countries, including staff from the railway administrations of member countries of the association and high-ranking representatives of transport companies.

It was noted at the event that the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, known as the Middle Corridor, has become one of the most important freight transport routes in the world in recent years. The importance of increasing operational efficiency, implementing digital solutions, and deepening cooperation to ensure the rapid flow of goods along this route was emphasized.

The meeting featured a report from the Executive Body of the TITR on the results of activities in 2024 and an analysis of transportation along the Trans-Caspian route. The participants also discussed amendments to the tariff rates approved for the TITR in 2025, a draft agreement on digitalization, and agreements on organizing feeder services between the ports of the Caspian Sea and ensuring the loading of feeder vessels.

The parties agreed on the freight transportation plan for the TITR in 2025 and measures for its implementation, noting the importance of priority container transport to Europe via the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway.

The event culminated with signing the protocol of the working group.

On March 4, the General Assembly of the TITR association will be held in Baku," added the source.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
ST. LOUIS  Kairos Academies charter school is out of compliance with laws mandating special education services, according to state records.

At the start of the school year, there were three Kairos teachers with special education certification from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The school reported in August that 136 students were receiving special education services.

Kairos must meet state and federal requirements for special education by the end of March, according to a letter of concern from Kairos sponsor, the Missouri Charter Public School Commission.

Multiple staff members reported significant issues with special education compliance during the commissions annual site visit to the school earlier this year, reads the January letter.

There is a severe lack of special education professionals and paraprofessionals that are supposed to give them their minutes and advocate for their (individualized education programs), and thats not the case, said one staff member, who asked not to be identified for fear of retribution. We dont have the resources for kids with IEPs, autism. So many kids in special education are really at a disadvantage because of coming to this school.

The school in the Marine Villa neighborhood has about 500 students in fifth through 11th grades. Charter schools are publicly funded but operated by appointed boards outside of St. Louis Public Schools.

In a statement Monday, Kairos spokesman Stuart Murray said the school now has 14 salaried and contracted special education staff to serve 125 students. The school also hired contractor Envision Learning HUB to address the backlog of unmet services from the fall.

At its January meeting, the Kairos board reported 60% of special education students are in compliance with their required services, up from 23% earlier in the school year.

The board emphasized the importance of crafting a clear narrative to communicate their ongoing efforts in special education, particularly in light of recent changes and challenges. The discussion included the potential risks of public perception and the need for strategic messaging, according to the meeting minutes.

State records show that 80% of all classes at Kairos are led by teachers who are not appropriately certified for the grade level or subject they teach, compared with 35% of classes in SLPS.

Kairos opened in 2019 and was co-founded by Jack Krewson, son of former Mayor Lyda Krewson. The school has struggled with high teacher turnover and budget shortfalls.

Earlier this year, Kairos laid off seven staff members after enrollment numbers failed to meet the budgeted target of 650 students, already lowered from the schools original estimate of 780 students.

Kairos leaders said at the time that savings from the layoffs would be used to increase special education services.

Christine Ingrassia, president of the newly formed parent-teacher association at Kairos, told the school board last month that changes at the school have been troubling, according to meeting minutes.

Parents are feeling like what they signed up for is not whats happening at Kairos today, Ingrassia said.
EDWARDSVILLE  The union representing faculty and staff at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is demanding negotiations over upcoming budget cuts that could include layoffs.

Last week, Chancellor James Minor said the university needs to slash positions and academic programs to address an operating deficit of more than $10 million.

The plan includes changes to degree programs, early retirement buyouts and the consolidation, reduction or elimination of some positions, Minor said in a letter to the campus.

The buyouts will roll out in the coming weeks, he said.

Union representatives for the 2,700 faculty and staff members at SIUE should be involved in the decisions, said Bridget Shanahan, a spokeswoman for the Illinois Education Association.

The proposed campus reorganization and academic prioritization are mandatory subjects of bargaining and could result in the loss of student services and jobs, Shanahan said in a statement Monday.

We look forward to a robust discussion about how to best set the institution up for success in the future while still supporting and acknowledging that our higher education institutions are nothing without the outstanding educators who support our students, she said in the statement.

Universities nationwide face an enrollment crisis caused primarily by a decline in birth rates that started in 2008. Other headwinds in higher education include rising operating expenses, uncertainty over federal grants and a general shift away from traditional liberal arts education.

A decade ago, SIUEs salaries totaled $145.8 million for an enrollment of 13,972. This year, salaries have grown to $164.2 million while enrollment has dropped to 11,893 students, according to the chancellors letter.
JEFFERSON CITY  The agency overseeing hunting and fishing permits in Missouri has been hit by a cyberattack and is trying to determine the scope of the breach, state officials said Monday.

A spokesman for the Missouri Department of Conservation said cybersecurity teams continue to investigate suspicious activity on one of its data servers after announcing the attack on Friday.

The department has activated its Incident Response Team and as it learns more, including if any individual data has been compromised, MDC will communicate directly with the impacted stakeholders, the agency said in a statement.

On Monday, an informal review of the agency website found many of the pages working without obvious glitches.

Our third-party cybersecurity team continues its work to gain additional insight into the scope of the suspicious activity, agency spokesman Joe Jerek said in an email Monday.

The 1,790-employee agency with a budget of more than $214 million issues permits for hunting, fishing and manages nearly 1 million acres of public land with more than 1,000 conservation areas.

Activities regulated by the department are big business in Missouri.

According to the agency, fish and wildlife recreation and the forest products industry generate more than $19 billion annually in economic impact and support over 85,000 jobs.

The cyber event comes after a 2022 audit of the agency found the department did not always remove accounts of terminated users. The report also found the department did not consistently enforce a network security system requirement that users account passwords be changed periodically.

In addition, the survey conducted by former Auditor Nicole Galloway found MDC did not proactively monitor for user accounts that have not been accessed or used for a specified period of time and does not have a policy requiring such review.

The department said at the time it was working to comply with the recommendations. Jerek did not immediately respond to a request for the status of those upgrades.

Current Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick announced last year he is conducting a new audit of MDC.

The states response also comes as Gov. Mike Kehoe has not filled any positions on the 13-member Missouri Cybersecurity Commission.

The commission was formed in 2021 as part of an effort to identify risks and vulnerabilities facing state government in regard to computer hacking and other online attacks from within or outside the U.S.

Former Gov. Mike Parson never appointed anyone to the board.

Last year, Missouri dealt with a major computer outage linked to an outside vendor. In July, Missourians seeking to renew driver licenses and access food benefits were among those facing delays after cybersecurity giant CrowdStrike experienced a major disruption.

Other states also have experienced attacks.

In December, an event led Rhode Island to take down an online portal used by residents to obtain welfare benefits and health insurance, saying the event may have compromised the personal information of thousands of people.

Hackers on Feb. 3 attacked the Post-Dispatchs parent company, Lee Enterprises, encrypting critical applications and stealing data
Microsoft said it will shut down down Skype, the video-calling service it bought for $8.5 billion in 2011, which helped spark a transformation in how people communicate online.

The tech giant said it will retire Skype in May and shift some of its services to Microsoft Teams, its flagship videoconferencing and team applications platform. Skype users will be able to use their existing accounts to log in to Teams.

Microsoft for years prioritized Teams over Skype and the decision to fold the brand reflects the tech giant's desire to streamline its main communications app as it faces a host of competitors.

Founded in 2003 by a group of engineers in Tallinn, Estonia, Skype was a pioneer in making telephone calls using the internet instead of landlines. It relied on VOIP, voice over internet protocol, technology that converts audio into a digital signal transmitted online.

Skype added video calls after online retailer eBay bought the service in 2005.

You no longer had to be a senior manager in a Fortune 500 company to have a good quality video call with someone else, said Barbara Larson, a management professor at Northeastern University who studies the history of virtual and remote work. It brought a lot of people around the world closer.

The ability to bypass expensive international phone calls to connect with far-flung co-workers was a boon for startups, but also people outside the business world.

You could suddenly have long calls, frequent calls, that were either free or very inexpensive, Larson said.

As with other new platforms, scammers also made use of it.

By 2011, when Microsoft bought it from eBay, Skype had about 170 million users worldwide, then-Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said in an event announcing the planned merger.

The Skype brand has become a verb, nearly synonymous with video and voice communications, he said at the time.

Skype was still considered high-tech in 2017, when recently inaugurated President Donald Trump's administration used it to field questions from journalists far from the White House press briefing room.

A month later, Microsoft launched Teams, an attempt to catch up to the growing demand for workplace chatting services sparked by upstart rival Slack Technologies.

Slack and Teams, along with newer video platforms such as Zoom, saw explosive growth during the COVID-19 pandemic as companies scrambled to shift to remote work, and even families and friends looked for new tools for virtual gatherings.

By then, Skype was already on the wane but paved the way for strengthening the connections people can build remotely.

Higher-quality media can really deepen relationships and make people able to work through complex problems much better, Larson said. Suddenly, this was available to anyone with a decent internet connection. And that was the real sort of revolutionary role that Skype had.

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LONDON  British Prime Minister Keir Starmer rallied his European counterparts Sunday to shore up their borders and throw their full weight behind Ukraine as he announced outlines of a plan to end Russias war.

Every nation must contribute to that in the best way that it can, bringing different capabilities and support to the table, but all taking responsibility to act, all stepping up their own share of the burden," he said.

Starmers exhortation to 18 fellow leaders that they need to do the heavy lifting for their own security comes two days after U.S. backing of Ukraine appeared in jeopardy when President Donald Trump lashed out at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and said he wasnt grateful enough for Americas support.

The meeting was overshadowed by the extraordinary scolding that took place on live television at the White House. Starmer used the opportunity as part of his broader effort to bridge the gap between Europe and the U.S. and also salvage what had seemed like the start of a peace process before Friday's spat.

Starmer said he worked with France and Ukraine on a plan to end the war and that the group of leaders  mostly from Europe  had agreed on four things.

The steps toward peace would: keep aid flowing to Kyiv and maintain economic pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine's hand; make sure Ukraine is at the bargaining table and any peace deal must ensure its sovereignty and security; and continue to arm Ukraine to deter future invasion.

Finally, Starmer said they would develop a coalition of the willing to defend Ukraine and guarantee the peace.

Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that cant mean that we sit back," he said. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency. The U.K. is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, together with others.

He said any plan would require strong U.S. backing. He did not specify what that meant, though he told the BBC before the summit that there were intense discussions to get a security guarantee from the U.S.

If there is to be a deal, if there is to be a stopping of the fighting, then that agreement has to be defended, because the worst of all outcomes is that there is a temporary pause and then (Russian President Vladimir) Putin comes again, Starmer said.

Starmer said he will later bring a more formal plan to the U.S. and work with Trump.

Europe has been anxious since Trump initiated direct peace talks with Putin, who had been isolated by most Western leaders since invading Ukraine three years ago. The scramble to remain relevant and protect European interests as their once stalwart ally appeared to be cozying up to Putin was even more troubling when Trump called Zelenskyy a dictator and falsely said Ukraine started the war.

Meetings last week provided some hope  until Zelenskyys trip to the White House on Friday.

Visits to the Oval Office by Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron, who declared his visit a turning point," were seen as steps in the right direction. The meetings were cordial and Trump even took a gentler tone toward Ukraine, though he would not commit to providing U.S. security guarantees and maintained that Europe would need to provide peacekeeping troops.

Within 12 hours of Starmers return from Washington, the talk of peace seemed to collapse as Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy for challenging Trumps assertions that Putin could be trusted.

During his Sunday news conference, Starmer rejected the suggestion that the U.S. was no longer a reliable ally.

There are no two countries as closely aligned as our two countries and our defense, our security and intelligence is intertwined in a way no two other countries are, so its an important and reliable ally for us, he said.

Starmer told the BBC before the summit that he does not trust Russian President Vladimir Putin but does trust Trump.

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni said she was sorry for what happened with Zelenskyy in Washington. Meloni is both a strong Ukraine supporter and  as head of a far-right party  she is a natural ally of Trump. She was the only European leader to attend his inauguration.

She said told reporters following the meeting that Europe must remain focused on its common goals and that dividing the West would be disastrous for everyone.

We need to work to reinforce our unity, and I think that Italy can play a role, not just in its own interest, but in everyones," she said. I dont want to take any other scenario into consideration.

Starmer hosted the meeting at Lancaster House, a 200-year-old mansion near Buckingham Palace, following his charm offensive with Macron to persuade Trump to put Ukraine at the center of negotiations and tilt his allegiances toward Europe.

Leaders from Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic and Romania were at the summit. The Turkish foreign minister, the NATO secretary-general and the presidents of the European Commission and European Council were also in attendance.

Starmer used sweeping terms to describe the challenge ahead, saying Europe was at a crossroads in its history and needed to step up to meet the once-in-a-generation moment.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen emerged from the meeting and said she would present a plan to rearm Europe to bolster the blocs security after a long period of underinvestment.

As for the future of war-torn Ukraine, von der Leyen said it needs security guarantees.

We have to put Ukraine in a position of strength so that it has the means to fortify itself and to protect itself, von der Leyen said. Its basically turning Ukraine into a steel porcupine that is indigestible for potential invaders.

Will the EU's sweeping regulations make Big Tech platforms safer? Will the EU's sweeping regulations make Big Tech platforms safer? Regulators take aim at Big Tech A complicated picture emerges when it comes to the rights to safety and autonomy
U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II jets arrive at RAF Lakenheath, England, Dec. 15, 2021. The F-35A is one of two nuclear-capable aircraft stationed at Lakenheath. A recent report says the Air Force is preparing for the possibility of restoring the nuclear weapons mission at the base. (Olivia Gibson/U.S. Air Force)



STUTTGART, Germany  A U.S. Air Force base in the United Kingdom is being prepared as a potential deployment site for nuclear bombs, a leading atomic policy research group said in a new report.

Three years of budget documentation and observations that include satellite imagery indicate that the U.S. military wants to reestablish a nuclear mission at RAF Lakenheath for the first time in nearly two decades, the Federation of American Scientists said.

The addition of a large nuclear air base in northern Europe is a significant new development that would have been inconceivable just a decade-and-a-half ago, according to the report, issued Wednesday.

As of now, there are no indications that nuclear weapons have been deployed to Lakenheath, the report said.

U.S. Air Forces Europe and Africa did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the potential for a nuclear mission at Lakenheath. However, as a matter of policy the U.S. military doesnt typically discuss the locations of nuclear weapons stored in Europe.

A decision to reactivate the nuclear mission at Lakenheath was likely part of a 2021 posture review that paved the way for various investments at the base, according to the report.

For instance, documents submitted to Congress in 2022 showed that the United Kingdom had been added to a list of countries for upgrades to NATO special weapons sites.

Related contracting documents and satellite images of construction work also added to mounting evidence that the nuclear mission would return to Lakenheath, said the federation, which traces its roots to atomic scientists who formed a group in the aftermath of World War II.

Then-U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown Jr. stands with airmen from the 48th Maintenance Group in front of an F-35A at RAF Lakenheath, England, Dec. 21. 2022. According to the Federation of American Scientists, the floor markings indicate the presence of an underground nuclear storage vault. (Olivia Gibson/U.S. Air Force)



Air Force budget materials described the construction of a surety dormitory there to accommodate an increase in personnel related to the arrival of a potential Surety Mission, the report said.

The term surety is typically used by the Defense Department when referring to the safety and security of nuclear weapons, the watchdog group added.

Once relevant construction is completed, the base could receive weaponry for its nuclear arsenal from other locations in Europe, according to the report.

In the case of a nuclear crisis with Russia, a portion of U.S. nuclear weapons could be redistributed from more vulnerable NATO bases to RAF Lakenheath to improve survivability and complicate Russias targeting strategy, the report said.

The federations assessment said the return of the nuclear mission to Lakenheath is most likely intended as a backup rather than a signal of the imminent return of such weapons.

The change appears to be a direct reaction to the worsening political and military relations with Russia, resulting from its invasions in 2014 and 2022 of Ukraine, frequent nuclear warnings, and Russian deployment of increasingly capable long-range conventional weapons, according to the report.

The federation has estimated that the U.S. has about 100 B61-12 nuclear gravity bombs stored across six air bases in five NATO countries, including Incirlik Air Base in Turkey.

Over the years, there have been concerns about keeping nuclear bombs at Incirlik given frequent diplomatic tensions with Turkey. A 2016 attempted coup in the country reinforced those concerns.

For many decades, the Air Force also had nuclear weapons vaulted at Lakenheath. However, they were removed around 2007 by President George W. Bush as part of a broader streamlining of the nuclear mission in Europe.

The report said the number of storage vaults being reactivated at Lakenheath appears to be similar to the number of active vaults at Incirlik.
Army Staff Sgt. Ulises Moore-Ramirez was sentenced Feb. 19, 2025, to 31 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges including sexual abuse of a child, extortion and desertion. He evaded authorities for nine years before being caught at the U.S.-Mexico border in July 2024. (Joseph Barron/U.S. Air Force)



An Army staff sergeant who fled to avoid prosecution on charges of child pornography production and child sexual abuse had his day of reckoning after nearly a decade on the run.

Ulises Moore-Ramirez, 48, was sentenced to 31 years in prison for crimes committed while he was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo., between 2013 and 2014.

Moore-Ramirez victimized 19 children across the United States, prosecutors said in a Feb. 26 statement announcing his sentencing.

In addition to his prison term, Moore-Ramirez was dishonorably discharged, demoted to private and ordered to forfeit all pay and allowances. He will have to register as a sex offender after his release.

On Feb. 19 during a court-martial, he pleaded guilty to charges including sexual abuse of a child, extortion, production and possession of child pornography and desertion, according to the Army statement.

At the time of the offenses, Moore-Ramirez was a construction engineer with the 1st Engineer Brigade, prosecutors said.

He posed online as a teenager, using explicit language to solicit pornographic images from minors, according to the statement.

A parent in Sioux City, Iowa, reported suspicious online interactions to local authorities, who identified the suspect as an active-duty service member and alerted the Armys Criminal Investigation Division.

Moore-Ramirez was set to be arraigned in April 2015 but deserted before the hearing, landing him on the Armys most-wanted list. His family ties to Missouri and Mexico, his place of birth, were noted in the listing, Army Times reported in 2015.

He remained a deserter until July 2024, when he was apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border and returned to military custody.

With tremendous support  we were able to bring justice to survivors across the country, prosecutor Capt. Matt Fine said in the statement. The extraordinary strength and resilience of the survivors in this case meant that although justice was delayed because of the accuseds desertion, it was not denied.
U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, march in formation during a graduation ceremony at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, Feb. 28, 2025. (Jacob Hutchinson/U.S. Marine Corps)



New U.S. Marines with India Company, 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, completed the 13-week training course at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.

Family and friends reunited with their Marines during a graduation ceremony on Friday.

The day before graduation, loved ones witnessed the new Marines participate in a motivational run  one of the last physical exercises before Marines leave recruit training  and took part in Family Day where they had an opportunity to meet drill instructors and partake in tours.

India Company Marines received their eagle, globe and anchors after the 54-hour Crucible event at Camp Pendleton on Feb. 12. The Crucible is the final test of knowledge, skills and endurance Marine recruits undergo before officially earning the title of United States Marine.

In November, the U.S. Marine Corps will celebrate its 250th anniversary. Marines across the globe are honoring the Corps history and service throughout the year.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Latvia's Minister of Agriculture Armand Krauze has met with Elnur Sultanov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Latvia, Trend reports.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in agriculture.

The two sides also discussed potential visits by Minister Krauze to Azerbaijan, including preparations for the upcoming Latvian-Azerbaijani intergovernmental commission meeting scheduled for May 12 in Baku. They also reviewed Latvia's proposals for collaboration, with the Azerbaijani side particularly highlighting opportunities for cooperation in forestry.

Both parties agreed that there is significant potential to further develop agricultural ties between Latvia and Azerbaijan and expressed their commitment to continuing joint projects.
Japanese police said they arrested a U.S. Navy civilian who had a live bullet in his carry-on luggage at Naha Airport, Okinawa, Feb. 28, 2025. (Naha Airport)



NAHA, Okinawa  A civilian employee of the U.S. Navy was taken into custody after a bullet was discovered in his baggage at an airport security checkpoint, a police spokesman said Monday.

The man, assigned to Naval Station Norfolk, Va., was stopped at 11:48 a.m. Friday by airport workers at Naha Airports domestic security gate, the spokesman for the Okinawa Prefectural Police said by phone.

Stars and Stripes is withholding the employees name until criminal charges are filed.

Candice Barber, a spokeswoman for the Navy on Okinawa, confirmed that the man is not assigned to the islands command. Naval Station Norfolk did not immediately respond to phone and email requests for comment after hours on Sunday.

Workers found the bullet in the mans suitcase as he attempted to board a domestic flight off the island. Police arrived and arrested him on suspicion of violating Japans strict law on possession of firearms, swords and other weapons, the spokesman said.

The man, who told authorities he was unaware the bullet was in his bag, is being held at Tomigusuku Police Station. His case was forwarded to the Naha Public Prosecutors Office on Sunday, the spokesman said.

Authorities urged U.S. service members and civilians to check their bags carefully before traveling.

Some Japanese government officials speak to the press only on condition of anonymity.

Similar incidents have occurred at Naha Airport in the past year.

In November, police said a civilian employee with the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base was arrested after a handgun bullet was found in her bag while passing through the international terminal.

In April, a U.S. airman was arrested when two bullets were found in his carry-on luggage in the domestic terminal, police said.

Both cases were ultimately dropped by prosecutors.
U.S. Army Sgt. Jared Strickland, of the 65th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, examines old munitions in Phu Lam Yai, Thailand, March 2, 2025. (Alex Wilson/Stars and Stripes)



PHU LAM YAI, Thailand  About 30 U.S. and Thai troops braced themselves Sunday as more than 730 pounds of TNT and nearly 20 pounds of C4 detonated just over half a mile away.

Hunkered inside a reinforced shelter, they listened in silence for 30 seconds, waiting for the telltale clatter of lethal shrapnel that could reach the bunker.

The detonation, part of an explosive ordnance disposal demonstration, included about 90 high-explosive mortar shells from the Thai army. The shells, manufactured in 1960 and filled with TNT, were deemed unfit for use, said Sgt. Jared Strickland, an EOD specialist with the U.S. Armys 65th Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company at Fort Wainwright, Alaska.

Disposing of aging munitions for partner nations is a routine mission for the company, Strickland said.

Theyll contact us; theyll give us all the old stuff, and we go and dispose of it safely in an area that can withstand the detonation, he said. Our Thai counterparts had a bunch of ordnance they no longer deemed usable  so we learn from them, and they learn from us on how to dispose of different things with different techniques.

Explosive ordnance specialists with the U.S. and Thai armies lay C4 to dispose of old munitions in Phu Lam Yai, Thailand, March 2, 2025. (Alex Wilson/Stars and Stripes)



Before the explosion, Stricklands team and soldiers from the Thai armys 22nd Ordnance Ammunition Regiment carefully stacked the 90 shells inside a crater. They then placed 16 blocks of C4 lengthwise across the pile.

Given the extreme heat and the age of the munitions, the team took extra precautions, Strickland said. Each shell and each block of C4 carried enough explosive force to destroy a small building if detonated indoors.

The team opted to use C4 to detonate the high-explosive shells  M329A1 mortars typically fired from the M30 heavy mortar  because of the differences in how explosives react, Strickland explained. While TNT tends to push when it detonates, C4 is more effective at cutting through material.

A U.S. soldier holds an block of C4 that will detonate old munitions in Phu Lam Yai, Thailand, March 2, 2025. (Alex Wilson/Stars and Stripes)



Additional detonations planned for Sunday were rescheduled due to training nearby, said Staff Sgt. Tyler Wilson, an EOD team leader with the 65th.

The rescheduled disposals, tentatively moved to Monday, were to include a 564-pound detonation of more mortars and landmines and a nearly 19-pound detonation of white phosphorus thats typically used in illumination or incendiary explosives, he said.

A plume of smoke rises as U.S. and Thai soldiers detonate more than 700 pounds of munitions in Phu Lam Yai, Thailand, March 2, 2025. (Alex Wilson/Stars and Stripes)



Lt. Nam Panthakan Termtorwattannakul, an EOD specialist with the Thai regiment, said he enjoyed learning about U.S. Army procedures.

We have our own steps and our own styles to demolish [old munitions], and the U.S. has their own way to do that, he told Stars and Stripes through a translator. It was really fun  fantastic.
A member of Japan's Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade takes his position after landing on Kin Blue Beach, Okinawa, March 1, 2025, during the Iron Fist exercise. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes)



KIN BLUE BEACH, Okinawa  An hourlong amphibious landing by U.S. Marines and Japanese troops over the weekend served as the key bilateral training event of Iron Fist, a defining exercise of the U.S.-Japan military alliance.

The focus of this years three-week exercise, which concludes Friday, is strengthening island defense and amphibious capabilities. For the third consecutive year, Iron Fist is taking place in Japan rather than off Californias coast, where it was held from 2006 through 2022.

Exercises are most effective when they are conducted by the forces most likely to operate together in the areas where they are most likely to operate, Brig. Gen. Trevor Hall, commander of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, told reporters Saturday at Kin Blue Beach after the landing.

Through our combined capabilities, we provide deterrence to all threats in this region, he said.

Japanese amphibious assault vehicles roll onto Kin Blue Beach, Okinawa, March 1, 2025, during the Iron Fist exercise with U.S. Marines. (Brian McElhiney/Stars and Stripes)



Unofficially, Iron Fist does not identify a specific adversary, but China remains a central consideration. The Pentagon has designated Beijing a pacing challenge in the Indo-Pacific since 2021, citing its military expansion and regional ambitions, particularly regarding Taiwan and the South and East China Seas.

Japan faces the most severe security environment it has seen since the end of World War II, Maj. Gen. Hajime Kitajima, commander of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, told reporters Saturday, reiterating a statement he made Feb. 17 at Iron Fists start.

This exercise is not aimed at a certain country or region, he said.

U.S. Marines pull their rubber raiding crafts toward Kin Blue Beach, Okinawa, March 1, 2025, during Iron Fist amphibious assault training. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes)



Iron Fist incorporates elements of the Marines amphibious warfare legacy while aligning with its modern Force Design strategy, which aims to counter Chinas area denial and anti-access tactics in the Western Pacific.

Saturdays amphibious landing began at 9 a.m. with approximately 200 U.S. Marines and sailors and 200 Japanese troops executing four waves of beach assaults.

In the first wave, Marines and Japanese soldiers landed in combat rubber reconnaissance craft, securing positions along the seawall with rifles at the ready. The second wave brought six Japanese amphibious assault vehicles ashore, followed by a Japanese air-cushioned landing craft in the third wave.

A Japanese amphibious assault vehicle rolls onto Kin Blue Beach, Okinawa, March 1, 2025, during the Iron Fist exercise with U.S. Marines. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes)

U.S. Marines disembark a landing craft during amphibious assault training on Kin Blue Beach, Okinawa, March 1, 2025, part of the Iron Fist exercise. (Brian McElhiney/Stars and Stripes)



Two Marine AH-1Z Viper helicopters circled overhead, providing reconnaissance and firepower, said III Marine Expeditionary Force spokesman Capt. Pawel Puczko.

They can provide additional fires to provide security for the landing force, he told Stars and Stripes at the beach. If they see a situation changing here on the ground, then they can report it back to the force thats landing.

The final wave saw Marines disembark from a landing craft and sprint up the beach, rifles in hand. A 7-ton truck carrying supplies followed close behind. The Marines arrived from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore, Puczko said.

The air-cushioned landing craft and the amphibious assault vehicles arrived from the Japanese tank-landing ship JS Kunisaki, 31st MEU spokesman Maj. Edward Pingel confirmed in a text message after the exercise. The Marine landing craft arrived from the USS Rushmore, while the rubber crafts came from White Beach and the Kunisaki, he confirmed in a text message Monday.

A U.S. Marine takes his position after landing on Kin Blue Beach, Okinawa, March 1, 2025, during the Iron Fist exercise. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes)



During the final landing, the craft veered wide of a pad prepared by six members of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, forcing them to sprint 50 feet down the beach to secure a new landing site as the craft approached.

I dont know the exact angles they were trying to go for, Pingel said afterward.

But this is also why we do this training, he added. When were called upon, we can execute our mission as flawlessly as possible.
Service members and their families wait for their orders at the newly renovated food court on Camp Walker, South Korea, Feb. 26, 2025. (David Choi/Stars and Stripes)



Source

CAMP WALKER, South Korea  Dozens of relieved and hungry diners lined up at the food court on this U.S. Army base in Daegu when it reopened after nearly seven months of renovations.

The food court inside the Army and Air Force Exchange Service at Camp Walker closed in September as part of a larger renovation project but resumed operations last week.

The upgrades added more seating for diners and introduced a new restaurant, Pizza Hut, base spokesman Philip Molter wrote in an email Wednesday, the grand opening.

Seating capacity nearly doubled to 122 patrons, with larger booths and window views of the parking lot, Molter said. The renovations also brought additional kitchen equipment to the existing restaurants, Subway and Taco Bell.

Service members and their families dine at the newly renovated food court on Camp Walker, South Korea, Feb. 26, 2025. (David Choi/Stars and Stripes)



Army spouse Ericka Burno brought her two sons to the reopening and said she was super excited to have more dining options again.

When it was gone, it felt like forever, she said, smiling. Since we dont have a ton of choices in Camp Walker, this is also like a social thing, not just for kids or adults, but for families to come.

Burno said she frequently cooks tacos and other Mexican cuisine at home, but added, Theres just something about Taco Bell.

The overall $7.4 million project includes design changes to the post exchange, Molter said. The exchange remains open as it undergoes renovations and is expected to fully reopen later this year.

During the food courts closure, dining options on base were limited to a Burger King, the Windy City Bowl & Grill, food trucks, and the dining hall.

For troops and their families living in and around Camp Walker, the reopening was a highly anticipated event.

Pfc. Diego Davis, a tactical power generation specialist assigned to the 188th Military Police Company, arrived at Walker in mid-September, just as sections of the food court were demolished.

We can now stay on post without any problems trying to get food, he said at the food court Wednesday. Sometimes we dont have enough time to go off post, so having the ability to come here, just get some food, is very nice and convenient.

The base opened a new $46 million hotel last month after four years of construction. The seven-story, 79-room Camp Walker Lodge replaces a lodge built in 2002 that had just 58 rooms and limited parking.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer JS Akizuki sails ahead of the USS Milius in the South China Sea, Oct. 19, 2021. (Christine Montgomery/U.S. Navy)



A Japanese destroyer sailed through the Taiwan Strait last month, marking the second such transit by a Japanese naval vessel since September, the countrys public broadcaster reported Saturday.

The JS Akizuki, of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, traveled southwest through the 110-mile-wide channel separating mainland China from Taiwan in early February, NHK reported, citing unnamed sources.

The warship participated in a Feb. 5 drill near the Philippines alongside the U.S., Australian and Philippine navies, according to a 7th Fleet news release. The guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold and a U.S. P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft also took part.

NHKs report did not specify whether the Akizuki sailed through the strait before or after the training.

Japans Ministry of Defense declined to comment on the transit Monday, citing security reasons. Some Japanese government officials speak to the press only on condition of anonymity.

Japans first known naval transit of the strait occurred on Sept. 25, when the destroyer JS Sazanami passed through the waterway alongside Australian and New Zealand vessels. Japanese media, including Kyodo News, reported that the ships were en route to the South China Sea for exercises.

Beijing considers such transits provocative and views the Taiwan Strait as its territorial waters. China has long asserted that Taiwan is a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland.

China has sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the strait, former Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said in June 2022. Wang, now Chinas ambassador to Cambodia, called references to the strait as international waters an attempt to manipulate Chinas claim over Taiwan.

The U.S. sails regularly through the Taiwan Strait, describing the transits as routine movements between the South China and East China seas.

Most recently, the guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson and the survey ship USNS Bowditch sailed southwest through the strait between Feb. 10 and 12, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command told Stars and Stripes at the time. It was the first such transit of President Donald Trumps second administration.

In recent months, the USS Higgins and HMCS Vancouver, a Canadian frigate, sailed through the waterway, and a U.S. P-8A Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft flew over the strait in November.
Henry Breault, the nations only enlisted submariner to receive the Medal of Honor, is pictured on March 8, 1924. (Library of Congress)



Putnam, Conn. (Tribune News Service)  The nations only enlisted submariner to receive the Medal of Honor lies in a grave in St. Marys Cemetery in Putnam, Conn.

He did something that everybody in the military questions whether they would do, Brian Maynard, the past commander of American Legion Post 13 said. You hope that if that situation arose, you would, but everybody always questions, Would you? and Henry Breault did.

In 1923, when a Navy submarine started to sink near the Panama Canal, Breault sacrificed his only means of escape to ensure that his shipmate would have a chance at survival. After a 31-hour rescue operation, both men made it out of the wreckage alive.

Today, more than a century after President Calvin Coolidge awarded Breault the Medal of Honor in 1924, a coalition of more than 2,000 men and women across the country are petitioning the U.S. Navy to name a Virginia-class submarine in Breaults honor.

On Saturday, March 8, 101 years to the day after Breaults award, the town is placing a spotlight on the nationwide effort with Henry Breault Day in Putnam during a ceremony planned for noon at Veterans Park.

He was the first submariner and to this day is the only enlisted submariner to ever have received the Medal of Honor, said Maynard, one of the founding members of the Henry Breault Association. For Putnam, its a remarkable honor, because theres no other town that can claim this.

Breaults story started in Putnam, where he was born on Oct. 14, 1900, but his legacy was solidified off the coast of Panama on Oct. 28, 1923, when a commercial steamship struck the USS O-5.

Less than a minute after the collision, the O-5 sank. But before the submarine descended into the water, Breault had a choice.

Instead of jumping overboard to safety through the access hatch, Breault closed the hatch, went back into the torpedo room where his shipmate was trapped, and sealed the chambers watertight door shut. Had he escaped and left the hatch open, those who remained on board would have died from the flooding.

He made a split-second decision based on the fact that he hadnt heard that they were abandoning ship, said Ryan Walker, an adjunct naval history professor at the United States Naval Community College and the author of The Silent Services First Hero, a book on Breaults life. His action saved the life of (Lawrence) Brown, and likely another guy named Charles Butler, who managed to self-escape in a different compartment.

Walker was 20 years old when he first learned Breaults story in enlisted submarine school.

It was the first time I understood what being a submariner meant, Walker said. He represents, in my mind, the entire submarine force and the duties we expect of submariners.

When the O-5 sank, Walker said, the Navy had no established escape or rescue procedure for submarines. He said it was hours before a diving team tapped on the hull of Breaults chamber in search of survivors.

The only way to escape that (the Navy had) tried was through the torpedo tubes, Walker said. One person can go in the torpedo tubes, and they could essentially flood the tube and let them swim out by opening the door. But crucially, one person would have had to stay behind to do that. So at some point, Breault and Brown look at each other and say, Its either both of us or neither of us are going to make it out of there. So they guess they had about 48 hours of oxygen (and) they decided to wait it out.

As they waited, Walker said, a battery explosion ignited an electrical fire in an adjacent chamber.

They must have literally felt they were boiling alive in the already tropical waters, Walker said.

It took 31 hours to complete the rescue. Walker said barges carried the submarine through the Panama Canal, where divers could clear the wreckage and pull the vessel to the surface. The winch snapped three times before rescuers successfully lifted Breault and Browns chamber.

When they raised  they asked both of them, How did you guys make it? And Lawrence Brown said, Breault is the reason I made it. Breault saved my life, Walker said.

After 30 minutes, Walker said, Breault was taken away to a hyperbaric chamber for Caissons disease, also known as the bends or decompression sickness.

He almost died, Walker said. I firmly believe thats why he had a young life.  He died in 1941 at 41 years of age, because he never probably fully recovered.

After earning the Medal of Honor for his bravery and sacrifice on that day, Walker said, Breault went on to receive the Yangtze Service Medal and served in China during a period of time where China was not a safe place to be.

By 1935, Walker said, Breault was disqualified from submarine service after failing an eye exam.

He spends the rest of his career trying to get back on a submarine, Walker said. (When) he gets someone to sign off that hes requalified for submarine duty, he heads out to the lovely New London Submarine Base,  he gets to the medical examination,  and they say, This man belongs in the hospital.

Breault was sent to a Naval hospital in Newport, R.I. Walker said medical records show Breault was experiencing severe chest pain and had difficulty breathing.

On Dec. 5, 1941, the autopsy report says he was sweeping the passageway, he said he had a good amount of sleep, and suddenly while he was sweeping, he just keeled over dead, Walker said. They believe his heart gave out.

Walker said Breault was largely lost to history until 2000, when the Navy launched an effort to incorporate Breault into the nations submarine heritage.

Walker said theres a pier at Pearl Harbor named in his honor and a plaque in Wilkinson Hall at the submarine base in Groton, but theres never been a Naval vessel named in his honor.

Walkers petition to name a Virginia-class submarine the USS Henry Breault has amassed nearly 2,200 signatures from across the country, including communities in New York, Vermont, California and Washington, where Breault once lived.

We just have a huge opportunity here to show unified support for the submarine force from multiple states and the entire nation, Walker said. This isnt just one persons idea, this is 2,000 peoples idea.

Walker said Breault personifies the principles of ship, shipmate, self, and the fighting spirit of the Navy in the Sailors Creed.

When faced with a tremendous situation, Breault chose above all to do everything in his power for the ship and the shipmates before worrying about himself, at great risk to himself, and probably to his detriment, Walker said. He did everything he could to make sure his friends, and the people on board would have a fighting chance, and theres something to be said about that.

Breaults action  that is the fighting spirit. And to embody that in a submarine, I think it would be great for the Navys recruitment, for retention, and for recognizing how important its personnel are to the mission, Walker said.

 2025 The Day (New London, Conn.).

Visit www.theday.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Social welfare bonzana laid bare in court as CAB details criminals long history after 33k found stashed in a sock

A major Limerick crime figure received more than 250,000 in social welfare payments as he jetted around Europe setting up drug deals.

Ray Collopys leading role in his violent crime clans feuding and multi-million euro drug dealing didnt stop him claiming dole money over three decades.

Until last October, he had got 130,723 in disability allowance since 2015 and 74,200 in jobseeker payments between 2007 and 2015  both of which are means tested.

On top of that, before 2007 he was paid 70,000, during which time the Collopys were aligned with the Keane faction in a deadly gangland feud against the McCarthy-Dundons in Limerick.

Collopys social welfare history emerged last week as part of Proceeds of Crime Act case to seize 33,000 found stashed in a girlfriends house.

Raymond's brother Kieran Collopy

As part of the Criminal Assets Bureaus (CAB) court bid, Collopys financials and details of his long criminal career were given in evidence.

A senior garda witness stated: For the past 20 years he has been heavily involved in day-to-day criminal activities.

Also known as Jethro, Collopy continued to receive the social welfare payments after the cash was found in April 2019, just a month after he had travelled to Spain for a drug deal meeting.

He also went to Bulgaria with two of his brothers, one of whom, Vincent, was dodging gardai at the time who wanted to question him over making threats to kill.

The Collopy gang included brothers Brian, Kieran, Philip  who was killed in 2009  Jonathon, Damien and Raymond.

Originally from St Itas Street in the Island Field, they forged a fearsome reputation in the early 1990s after their father Jack was beaten up by three men.

Brian Collopy effectively became leader as the gang took over a significant share of the drugs business in Limerick and Munster after mob boss Christy Keane was jailed.

The Keanes had also fallen out with John Ryan, one of the men the Collopys blamed for the attack on their father.

In 2003, Ryan was shot dead near his Moyross home, a killing for which Vincent Collopy, then aged 17, was a suspect along with Joe Keane, a son of Kieran Keane. Kieran Keane had been murdered six months earlier.

Raymond Collopy's brother Brian

The CAB evidence listed dozens of violent attacks through the 2000s in which members of the Collopy gang were involved.

One of these included an attempt to kill rival boss Wayne Dundon in February 2004 as he sat in a car outside a McDonalds restaurant at the Crescent Shopping Centre.

A motorcycle pillion passenger fired a number of shots at Dundon before taking off to a location where the bike was abandoned and the two people were picked up by a car.

The car was stopped with brothers Brian and Vincent found inside with two other men, and although they were all arrested no charges were brought against them.

Details of various drugs seizures made by gardai in targeted operations against the gang give an idea of just how big business was for the Limerick gangs.

One search at their St Itas Street stronghold uncovered heroin and cocaine worth 232,000 in 2006.

Another 40,000 worth of cannabis was found at Brian Collopys home in 2007 and in 2009, another search uncovered heroin worth 224,000 and 307,000 of cocaine.

Raids on Raymonds house at St Munchins Street in 2018 and 2017 uncovered cocaine worth a total of 8,000 along with plastic bags and weighing scales.

An associate of Raymond was jailed for seven-and-a-half years after being caught in 2022 with cocaine worth 208,000 and 51,000 in cash.

While no charges were brought against Collopy over those seizures, he was convicted of making threats to kill in 2007.

He was also jailed for two years for his part in a feud-related brawl outside Supermacs on the Ennis Road in 2003.

Last December, Ray Collopy faced trial on charges of possessing criminal cash along with his former partner Ciara Bradshaw (43), of Sarsfield Avenue, Garryowen.

A garda gave evidence that money in a sock was vacuum-packed in three bundles and amounted to about 33,000.

Gardai were told the money in the sock belonged to Collopy, and that the cash in a wallet was for a holiday the couple were planning to take in Benidorm, the court heard.

Ms Bradshaw told gardai Collopy, a champion angler, had asked her to look after the money while he was away on a fishing trip, it was heard. A jury returned a verdict of not guilty on the charges against them.

However, at the High Court this month, Judge Alex Owens accepted CABs evidence the money was the proceeds of crime.

Collopy did not make an appearance or fight the CAB case.

The Sunday World previously reported how the Collopys have been targeted by CAB and in 2019 Brian got a 1.3m tax demand handed to him in prison.

CAB also seized a house he owned in Fedamore.
There were children attending the school when Dawid Malecki (47) forced his way in and burgled an office, it is alleged

An alleged dangerous driver who crashed outside a Dublin after-school got into confrontations with the manager and a parent before breaking into the building and taking a set of keys, a court has been told.

There were children attending the school when Dawid Malecki (47) forced his way in and burgled an office, it is alleged.

He is facing trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be heard at district court level.

Judge Cephas Power remanded him on continuing bail at Blanchardstown District Court for further DPP directions.

Mr Malecki, with an address at Hawkstown Park, Wicklow Town, is charged with multiple offences following an incident in west Dublin last June 10.

He is charged with dangerous driving, hit and run, criminal damage, burglary, theft, possession of a knife and refusing to provide a sample for gardai after a driving arrest.

Garda Sergeant Maria Callaghan told Judge Power the DPP consented to the charges being dealt with in the district court.

Outlining the prosecutions case, she said witnesses told gardai they saw the accused driving an Opel Astra and hitting a number of roadside bollards. They reported that he drove into an industrial estate where he hit a parked vehicle, turned the Astra around and drove it into the wall of an after-school.

He exited his car, checked it for damage, got back in and tried to drive it into a parking spot but hit a fence, Sgt Callaghan continued.

It was alleged he left his car again and had a verbal altercation with someone collecting their child from school that resulted in him taking her keys.

He allegedly had a verbal altercation with the after-school manager after which he forced entry to the building by prising open a locked door.

The court heard the school was occupied by a number of children at the time.

According to gardai, he went into an office and took a set of keys from a table.

It was further alleged a knife was located inside his car after he was arrested.

Judge Power refused jurisdiction after hearing the summary of evidence. He adjourned the case to April 3 for the DPP to formally direct a return for trial to the circuit court.
The victims of Peter Doyle (68) wish to retain their anonymity but were happy for him to be named

A Dublin man who sexually abused two young girls has been jailed for eight years.

The victims of Peter Doyle (68) wish to retain their anonymity but were happy for him to be named.

Doyle abused the girls over 20 years ago while they were aged between six and nine years old.

The Central Criminal Court heard that both women had been deeply affected by the abuse.

The first woman outlined that her childhood memories had been tainted by the sexual abuse. She said she had felt ashamed and that she no longer wanted to be alive so that it would all go away.

The second woman said she had been just six years old when her innocence was taken and not a day goes by when she does not feel the impact of the abuse. She said she felt dirty, ashamed and scared, and no one had believed her when she tried to confide in others what was happening.

Doyle, of Gleann Na hEorna, Springfield, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to indecent assault of the first girl on dates between 1988 and 1991. He was aged between 32 and 35 years old at that time.

He also pleaded guilty to four counts of indecent assault and one count of rape of the second child on dates between 1977 and 1980. He was then aged between 21 and 24 years old.

Passing sentence today, Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo said it was clear from the victim impact statements in this case that there was deep and abiding hurt as a result of the offending. He thanked the two women for coming forward and making statements.

Mr Justice Naidoo said the aggravating factors in the case included the age of the injured parties, the age disparity, the harm done and the breach of trust. He set a headline sentence of 15 years imprisonment.

The judge noted mitigating factors in the case included Doyles guilty plea, his lack of previous convictions, no further offending, good work history, an apology offered through counsel and a degree of remorse.

Mr Justice Naidoo imposed consecutive sentences totalling eight years imprisonment.

An investigating garda told Eileen OLeary SC, prosecuting, that the first woman came forward and made a statement to gardai in 2022. She disclosed that she believed a second girl may also have been abused. Gardai approached the second woman and she also made a statement.

The court heard that both women had told adults in their lives what occurred many years before they went to gardai. One of the girls was told that the accused man was just experimenting.

Doyle was questioned by gardai and made no admission, denying all allegations.

Ms OLeary said it was the view of the Director of Public Prosecutions that this case fell into the more serious category of cases, indicating a headline sentence of between 10 and 15 years.

In her victim impact statement, the first women labelled Doyle a pathetic coward and a monster. She described the hugely damaging effect of the abuse on her life and mental health.

The second woman said she had felt the impact of the abuse throughout her life and it had an extremely adverse effect on her mental health. She said she had gone through her life hoping she was the only victim but her worst fears were realised when the first woman came forward.

Both women described how they had come forward hoping to protect other children.

James Dwyer SC, defending, said his client wished to offer an apology to the two women.

He asked the court to take into account his clients guilty plea which he submitted was of significant value as the women did not need to be re-traumatised by giving evidence before a jury.

Mr Dwyer said his client was now before the court as a man approaching his 70s, facing sentence for offences committed in his 20s and 30s.

Counsel said his client had a good work history, mainly as a shopfitter, and lived alone prior to going into custody. He said Doyle had expressed remorse and had no other convictions.

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Phelan's barrister Fiona Murphy SC alongside Carol Doherty BL had informed the court during a sentencing hearing that her client was "tortured by her actions" and had genuinely cared for Mr Ennis

A 50-year-old woman, who used excessive force in self-defence when she fatally stabbed her partner in a Dublin apartment "in response to an anticipated attack", has been jailed for five years.

The Central Criminal Court previously heard that Ann Phelan, who had her own "demons with drugs" and led a "disruptive life", told gardaI she was in "total fear", that she didn't mean to kill her ex-partner David Ennis and what had happened was a "tragic accident".

The court heard that Mr Ennis had suffered head injuries after a fall from a balcony a few days before he was killed and had been behaving in an aggressive way.

Phelan's barrister Fiona Murphy SC alongside Carol Doherty BL had informed the court during a sentencing hearing that her client was "tortured by her actions" and had genuinely cared for Mr Ennis.

The pair were "in a relationship of sorts" for two to three years where drugs were "sadly" a feature, the court heard.

The body of David Ennis is removed from the scene. Picture: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin

Sentencing Phelan at the Central Criminal Court today, presiding judge Mr Justice Paul Burns noted that the defendant was acting in self defence in response to an anticipated attack from the deceased.

It was confirmed by a detective at the sentence hearing that the defendant thought Mr Ennis had a knife at the time. Phelan also thought she had stabbed him in the arm but the knife had gone into his side.

The judge pointed out today that Phelan had used a knife against an unarmed man and that arming herself with such a weapon was one of the aggravating factors in the case.

Ann Phelan was originally charged with the murder of David Ennis (36) at Claddagh Court in Ballyfermot on the night of November 8, 2022. However, last November Phelan, of Aylward Green, Finglas, Dublin 11, pleaded guilty to manslaughter when she was arraigned before the court.

Phelan has 26 previous convictions, of which the majority are for public order offences and non-appearance before court. She has no convictions for assault but does hold a conviction for violent behaviour in a garda station dating back to 2018.

In a victim impact statement read to the court last month by the detective in the case, the deceased's mother Geraldine Ennis said her son was "a hard-working man in his day and always helped me out whenever he could".

Mrs Ennis said her son's life "tragically ended too soon" and that she was "devastated and heartbroken beyond words" that she will never see him again. She said she now needed "closure" and to let him rest in peace.

In a second statement the deceased's brother Lee Ennis said David was "a great brother", that he missed him dearly and "stresses about how he passed". "I feel depressed at times and find it hard to accept".

The court heard that a small potato peeler-like knife was found wrapped in some bedding adjacent to where Mr Ennis' body was found. Blood on the blade of the knife matched the deceased's DNA profile.

Phelan gave a voluntary cautioned interview to gardai in which she said Mr Ennis told her he would stab her and "the next thing he was on the floor with blood coming out of him".

She told gardai that Mr Ennis had fallen on the floor and that there was a knife in the bedroom. She described to gardai putting him in the recovery position and trying to help him. She said the deceased wasn't in his right mind and "was just going to stab them".

Before delivering the sentence today, Mr Justice Burns said that Phelan and Mr Ennis had been in a relationship and that unfortunately the pair had significant problems involving long term substance abuse and that their lives had reflected their drug addictions.

The judge said Phelan and Mr Ennis would sometimes call into witness Martin Higgins' address, who lived at Claddagh Court, where the event took place in the early hours of November 8, 2022. He said Phelan would do some cleaning and washing for Mr Higgins.

He said Mr Ennis had fallen from a balcony and suffered from a head injury in the days preceding this event. He said Mr Ennis had slapped Mr Higgins when he opened his front door that night and threatened to burst his eye open.

The judge went on to say that Mr Higgins was further assaulted by the deceased when Phelan was present that night. He said Phelan had also been assaulted by Mr Ennis in the bedroom. When Mr Higgins later went into the bedroom he found Mr Ennis on the floor having a fit or seizures and that Phelan had been trying to lift the deceased's head, he commented.

Tragically, the judge said, Mr Ennis died from one of the three stab wounds he suffered but that two of the wounds to the thigh and calf had not contributed to his death.

He pointed out that Phelan had voluntarily gone to the garda station, had indicated to officers that Mr Ennis had threatened to stab her and that the deceased was "not in his right mind" at the time.

The judge said Phelan also told gardai that she had put the knife into Mr Ennis as she was frightened. He said over the course of her six interviews with detectives she had indicated she was acting in self-defence.

"She stated she thought Mr Ennis had a knife and she had got a knife," he added. The judge said Phelan told officers she had intended to stab Mr Ennis in the left arm.

Passing sentence today, Mr Justice Burns said the offence had been carried out by Phelan on a man she had been in an intimate relationship with. He said the defendant was acting in self defence in response to an anticipated attack from Mr Ennis.

The judge set the headline sentence at eight years.

In mitigation, Mr Justice Burns noted the defendant's guilty plea, that she had expressed remorse and that she had suffered from drug addiction for many years as well as depression.

He commented that Phelan had found it difficult to settle in prison and that she was now close to 51 years of age.

Having considered mitigation, the judge sentenced Phelan to six years imprisonment with the final year suspended for a period of three years on the basis that she remain under the supervision of the probation services for that time and engage with counselling and addiction services.

The sentence was backdated to October 27, 2023, when she went into custody.

The judge extended the court's sympathies to the Ennis family for their loss.
A man who robbed a betting office while holding a Stanley blade has been jailed for 18 months.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Joseph Collins (26) of Avila Park, Finglas, Dublin 11, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery at BoyleSports, Finglas, on November 27, 2023. He has 10 previous convictions.

Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged that Collins is deeply ashamed for the offending against the injured party, is willing to work and has strong family support.

She said there needs to be a custodial element to the sentence given the seriousness of the offence, but said it will be a structured release from custody to allow Collins to rehabilitate.

Judge Crowe said it was a very frightening experience for the victim and accepted that it was carried out to feed an addiction that had overwhelmed Collins.

She noted a report from the Probation Services stating it was willing to work with Collins as he has a strong family support and has access in the community to treatment for his addiction.

He is going to have to direct his efforts towards rehabilitation so he is not a risk to society in the future, Judge Crowe continued before she imposed a sentence of three years.

She suspended the final 18 months of that term on strict conditions including that Collins engage with the Probation Service, for two years.

At an earlier sentence hearing, Detective Garda Dwayne OBrien told Diana Stuart BL, prosecuting, that on the date in question an employee in BoyleSports began work as normal.

At approximately 7pm, a man who was later identified as Collins entered the shop. He approached the counter and muttered the word Money. He then produced a Stanley blade from his pocket and put it under the glass of the counter.

The court heard that the blade was one foot away from the injured party's face. He told gardai that he was afraid and thought of his child at home and handed over a sum of 280. Collins left the shop, and the employee closed the shop and contacted the gardai.

Det Gda OBrien said that gardai obtained CCTV footage from the shop and were able to identify Collins. He was later arrested and charged.

Det Gda OBrien agreed with David Fleming BL, defending, that Collins was known to him and agreed that he was like night and day when he is abusing substances and when he is not.

The garda agreed with counsel that Collins has a long-standing problem with alcohol and drugs but had entered residential rehabilitation in the past.

Mr Fleming said that his client had asked him to apologise to the injured party and a co-worker who was working on the day in question. He said Collins is deeply ashamed of his actions and stated that he is not prone to violence.

Counsel said Collins is not someone who is sitting by and taking no action and stated that he has completed the residential programme at Coolmine Treatment Centre.

He said that when Collins is sober, he is a productive, active member of society.

Counsel asked the court to take into account that his client has no history of violence.
Photo: Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, March 3. An agreement on the approval of a joint list of scientific publications has been signed between the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan and the Higher Attestation Commission under the President of Azerbaijan, Trend reports via the government of Kazakhstan.

The government noted that according to the document, scientists from both countries will have a unique opportunity to publish in joint scientific journals as well as in the publications of both republics, thus expanding the horizons for scientific publications and knowledge exchange.

"In the future, we also want to expand cooperation in the area of scientific grant expertise and research projects, as the scientific community is small, and it is very important to have diversified opinions and expertise," said Minister of Science and Higher Education of Kazakhstan Sayasat Nurbek.

It's also planned to sign a number of bilateral cooperation agreements between leading universities in Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan.

To note, the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Olzhas Bektenov is currently on an official visit to Baku.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
McDonnell appeared at the sentencing hearing in the Special Criminal Court despite undergoing surgery on his jaw following a prison assault

Nathan McDonnell in an image taken from his LinkedIn profile

Breaking bad businessman Nathan McDonnell has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for his role in a plan to export 32 million worth of crystal meth from Ireland to Australia.

The father of three was in court today despite an operation to fix his jaw after he was attacked last weekend at Portlaoise Prison.

Nicola speaks to Niall Donald about a garden centre, a chance of quick money and the fallout for a McDonnell, his family and his community.

MORE EPISODES
The US tourist was left with life changing injuries after the 2023 assault on Dublins Talbot Street

A third teenager has been jailed for a vicious assault on tourist Stephen Termini which placed the spotlight on Dublins north inner city and violence on its streets.

The US tourist was left with life changing injuries after the 2023 assault which saw then Justice minister Helen McEntee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris visit Talbot Street and promise change.

Nicola speaks with Niall Donald about the street, the assault and the jailing of three teenagers.

MORE EPISODES
Hairdressers and takeaways among businesses targeted

Gardai are investigating if the so-called Lucky Dip gang was behind a crime wave which included a spate of break-ins at commercial premises in the space of little over an hour.

Six businesses were targeted in smash-and-grab raids by criminals between 3.45am and 5.30am last Tuesday in counties Meath and Westmeath.

CCTV footage captured two of the masked criminals removing a cash till from a Leinster business just before 5am on Monday after they had smashed their way into it.

This is the second time in the space of a month that the same business has been targeted.

It is understood that on both occasions just a small sum of money was stolen.

Shortly after this break-in, the gang who were travelling in a stolen red Volkswagen Polo targeted three businesses in a village in Co Westmeath  a hairdressers and two takeaways.

CCTV footage from one of the break-ins

While they failed to get any cash from the hairdressers , the thieves had more luck in the fast-food outlets which had money stolen from them.

There has been one arrest of a teenager. Gardai also recovered the stolen car being used by the gang in the Dundrum area of south Dublin last Tuesday.

The car was located close to the accommodation of a juvenile gang member who is on the garda radar for car thefts, break-ins and associated crimes.

The Lucky Dip gang randomly pick a location on the app

There is so much local public concern that a protest took place at the former garda station in Ballivor, Co Meath, on Saturday to highlight the lack of gardai in the locality.

Sources say the chief suspects for the crime wave are an expanding gang of Dublin-based teenage joyriders known as the Lucky Dip gang.

Gardai have given them that name after obtaining key intelligence that the gang, who now have over 20 mostly juvenile members, have been randomly picking targets in Leinster towns on an almost nightly basis using the Google Maps app.

The Lucky Dip gang randomly pick a location on the app usually within the wider Dublin area or within Dublin itself and then utilise the motorway network to travel to the location often in stolen cars at high speed, a source told the Sunday World.

In recent months they have been more frequently targeting commercial premises and travelling farther outside their Dublin base.

The Sunday World has learned that the car associated with the crime wave was robbed from a location in Co Kildare.

Stock image

Between Saturday morning of last week and its eventual seizure in Dundrum on Tuesday, it was observed at a number of Leinster locations and its occupants are suspected of a burglary in Clane, Co Kildare that weekend.

Sources said that its occupants were observed checking out houses and cars in various locations in south Dublin before it travelled to Co Louth where its occupants were involved in a criminal damage incident in the Dundalk area.

It later failed to stop for gardai on the M1 motorway. Its occupants later became suspects in the theft of a BMW car in the Donnybrook area of the capitals southside.

The criminals are then suspected of travelling in convoy to the Dunlavin area of Co Wicklow and Ballymore Eustace in Co Kildare where a takeaway was broken into at 5.20am on Monday.

The following night the car was observed in north Co Dublin before travelling to Co Meath where its occupants are suspects for a number of early-morning incidents which took place in Dunshauglin, Ratoath, Trim, Kildalkey, Rathwire and in Ballivor.

While no one was injured in these incidents, the impact these crimes have on the business owners both from a financial and a peace of mind point of view cannot be overestimated, a source told the Sunday World.

Last month the Sunday World highlighted how the Lucky Dip gang are one of more than three organised crime groups involved in car theft and burglary blitzes across Leinster.
Elijah Gavin, also known as Timothy OReilly is alleged to be part of a gang that defrauded home owners of over $1 million

AN Irishman on the run from prison has been arrested in New York on charges of conning $850,000 from an elderly woman in a home repair scam.

Elijah Gavin is due before a judge next week in Rhode Island after being indicted by a jury for his part in a multi-state construction and money laundering fraud scheme.

Also known as Timothy OReilly, he is alleged to be part of a gang that defrauded home owners of over $1 million in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Jersey and New York.

Details of the organised crime gang and their alleged activities are described in an affidavit by a Homeland Security special agent filed with the court.

Elijah Gavin's photo used in a Dept of Justice (NI) unlawfully at large notice

Gavin flew to the United States from Dublin in October 2022 when he was unlawfully at large from prison in Northern Ireland.

At the time he was facing charges over an attempt to trick an elderly woman out of 40,000.

Gavin has convictions for assault, burglary and theft which led to his visa cancelled in May 2023, according to the court document.

One of the victims was a 78-year-old woman who handed over $850,000 for unnecessary repairs to her foundation basement.

After one member of the gang talked her into paying a deposit for arears, the costs began to escalate and there were requests for more cash to pay for specialist machinery.

The woman identified one of the supervisors as Timothy Kelly from a photograph of Gavin first published by the Belfast Newsletter in an article about him being at large from Magilligan Prison.

Video grab of Elijah Gavin allegedly using a bank account linked to fraud

While the men disappeared after a neighbour came in to inspect the work another attempt was made by the gang to defraud the woman.

A caller told her the workers had been fired for their shoddy work and the firm wanted to refund her the money. However, the cheque had mistakenly been made out for 950,000 and she was asked to repay the difference.

Investigators later linked the phone number being used by the caller to locations where Gavin had stayed in various hotels.

They also used footage from an ATM machine to link Gavin to a bank account, opened with his UK passport, they say was used in the alleged scam.

Another victim, of Irish heritage who paid a $3,500 cheque to "Thomas" who he later identified as Gavin challenged him over his claim to be Australian.

A total of six victims were able identify the Irish-accented Gavin to investigators who also described the organised crime gang of which they allege Gavin is a member.

Video grab of ID cards allegedly used by Elijah Gavin from a police body-camera during a vehicle search

In his affidavit the special agent said: I am aware that the Traveling conman fraud group or travellers has been recognised by the Federal Bureau of investigations terrorist screening centre as a transnational organized crime group.

While not a centrally organized group the travellers are groups of Irish or UK nationals who entered the United States on pleasure or tourist visas and overstay their visits or more commonly entered the United States illegally.

Once in the United States travellers go to different cities and states soliciting construction work.

This is sometimes done door to door by knocking and introducing themselves to homeowners usually elderly individuals claiming to have extra materials left over from a prior job or noticing a defect or damage to the home that needs to be repaired immediately.

He added that small jobs can then escalate into major repairs and gang members overcharged homeowners and sometimes intimidate people into paying them upfront for work that isn't finished.

Elijah Gavin's New York driver's licence photo

In statement last week the US Attorneys Office in Rhode Ireland said: Gavin has been detained in federal custody since his arrest in New Jersey on January 29, 2025.

He is scheduled to be arraigned on the indictment in U.S. District Court in Providence on March 10, 2025.

A federal indictment is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

The matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Rhode Island State Police, and US Diplomatic Security Service, it was added.
Kelly yelled at the reporter: You shouldnt even be in Ardoyne. This is my community. Youre a c***.

A BLITZED Shankill bomber Sean Kelly went ballistic this week in a foul-mouthed attack on this reporter.

The shocking outburst took place in Belfasts Ardoyne district just 24 hours after the funeral of IRA veteran 74-year-old Brendan Bik McFarlane, the IRAs prison commander during the tragic 1981 Maze hunger strikes.

Smelling strongly of alcohol and stale tobacco, a furious Kelly button-holed the journalist as he was about to leave shop premises at Balholm Drive, where the reporter had been on Sunday World business.

Accusing him of penning a damning article which branded McFarlane a sectarian bomber, he roared: Bik McFarlane wasnt a sectarian bomber  he was an IRA volunteer.

Kelly took aim at our reporter as he was going about his business

.

.

And when asked by the reporter to identify himself, the convicted IRA bomber fixed his single eye on him  he lost the other one in the Shankill bomb  and he screamed at the top of his voice: Im Sean Kelly  IRA volunteer.

The reporter informed Kelly he had previously interviewed Kellys father John, who, with tears in his eyes, told him he was ashamed of his sons actions on the day nine Protestants and an IRA bomber were blown to bits on the Shankill Road in 1993.

But once again Kelly screamed: I dont give a f*** who you know!

The former IRA foot soldier then launched into a rambling and largely incoherent rant, peppered with foul language.

And he yelled at the reporter: You shouldnt even be in Ardoyne. This is my community. Youre a c***.

A pensioner was in the shop when the drama suddenly exploded before her eyes. And she also witnessed the unsavoury incident spilling out on the pavement when Kelly pursued the reporter as he walked towards his car.

But she bravely stepped in, using her purse to herd Kelly away from the reporter and back inside the shop.

And in a final defiant threat, the Shankill bomber once again shouted: Im Sean Kelly  IRA volunteer!

Kelly had been at the funeral of former senior IRA man Brendan Bik McFarlane the previous day

McFarlane and Kelly  between them and 18 years apart  were convicted of planting bombs on the Shankill Road which claimed a total of 15 lives.

In 1976, 25-year-old McFarlane received five life sentences for his part in an IRA bomb and gun attack on the Bayardo Bar in the heart of the Shankill the previous year. Four Protestant civilians aged between 19 and 65 and a UVF member lost their lives, while another 60 Saturday night revellers were injured.

Shankill bomber Sean Kelly goes berserk in Ardoyne this week

It was said to have been retaliation for a UVF attack on a minibus belonging to the Miami Showband. Three musicians and two loyalists died in a botched bomb attack when the vehicle was stopped at a bogus British army checkpoint two weeks before the Bayardo attack.

Three decades ago, 21-year-old Kelly shot to worldwide infamy when an IRA bomb he delivered to Frizzells Fish Shop on the Shankill Road exploded, killing nine Protestants and his fellow bomber, Thomas Bootsy Begley. Wearing white, coats the bombers passed themselves off as fish delivery men.

Another 51 members of the public were also injured in the no-warning blast on a sunny Saturday afternoon.

Twenty-five years later, Kelly publicly apologised for the Shankill Bomb atrocity. He said it was an IRA operation gone wrong.

Two years ago, the Sunday World interviewed Shankill Road pensioner Jim Verner (68) who on the day of the Shankill bomb atrocity used his bare hands to pull Kelly from the rubble of Frizzells Fish Shop, which was demolished by the blast.

And speaking about the atrocity for the first time, Mr Verner told us: Instead of saving Sean Kellys life that day, I wish Id strung him up from the nearest lamppost. Ive suffered every day since.

McFarlane and Kelly were both brought up in the close-knit Catholic Ardoyne district, where they also joined the IRA.

And on Tuesday Kelly was among mourners at Milltown Cemetery, when Sinn Fein politician Gerry Kelly  McFarlanes one-time senior officer in the IRA  told them McFarlane quit studying for the priesthood to join the republican movement.

Among those paying tribute to McFarlane were Sinn Fein president Mary Lou McDonald and First Minister Michelle ONeill.
Kyle Clifford denies raping his 25-year-old former girlfriend Louise Hunt

A 26-year-old man who murdered his ex-girlfriend and her sister with a crossbow before stabbing their mother to death is set to stand trial accused of rape.

Kyle Clifford, who tied 25-year-old former partner Louise Hunts arms and ankles with duct tape and shot her through the chest with a crossbow bolt during the incident in July last year, denies a further charge of raping her.

The defendant previously admitted three counts of murder, one of false imprisonment against Louise Hunt, and two counts of possession of offensive weapons  the crossbow and the knife.

Forensic officers at the scene in Ashlyn Close, Bushey, Hertfordshire (James Manning/PA)

Ms Hunts 61-year-old mother Carol Hunt, the wife of BBC commentator John Hunt, sustained significant stab wounds to her knee, hands, back and torso following an attack by Clifford at the family home in the quiet cul-de-sac of Ashlyn Close in Bushey, Hertfordshire.

Hannah Hunt, 28, was found in the main doorway of the house with a crossbow bolt to the chest and was still alive when police arrived at the property at around 7.10pm on July 9.

Kyle Clifford previously admitted three counts of murder (Elizabeth Cook/PA)

Clifford, who served in the military from 2019 for around three years, became the subject of a manhunt for a number of hours before he was found injured in Lavender Hill Cemetery in Enfield, north London, after shooting himself in the chest with the crossbow.

Clifford, of Enfield, north London, is set to stand trial at Cambridge Crown Court for the charge of rape on Monday.
The boy had been with his parents shopping in the International Glass Company store in the Charlestown Shopping Centre, Finglas, when the incident occurred

A judge has approved a 15,000 settlement offer to a four-year-old boy who suffered concussion and a fractured eye socket when a door fell on his head in a Dublin store.

Barrister Claire Cummins told Judge Jennifer OBrien in the Circuit Civil Court today that the boy had been with his parents shopping in the International Glass Company store in the Charlestown Shopping Centre, Finglas, when the incident occurred.

Ms Cummins, who appeared with Synnott Lawline Solicitors, said Brody Davis had been rushed to the emergency department of Temple Street Childrens Hospital by two members of the gardai to avoid a wait for an ambulance.

Brody, of Dunsink Drive, Finglas, Dublin 11, sued the International Glass Company Limited through his father Thomas Martin. Judge OBrien heard he had been assessed by an eye specialist and had undergone an immediate CT scan which revealed a fracture to the roof of his right eye socket.

Ms Cummins said Brody, who is now aged seven, had also suffered injuries to his legs and shoulders and told the court that liability was not an issue in the case. She said she was recommending a 15,000 settlement offer with costs from the glass company.

She told the court the incident had happened just two days before Christmas in 2021 and had resulted in the child having been withdrawn over the holiday period. He had missed school for five weeks but had fully recovered.

Judge OBrien, who heard there had been no scarring following the soft tissue injuries to Brodys legs, approved the settlement. Ms Cummins told her the boy had been hit on the head by a free standing composite door in the Charlestown Centre store.
"Deeply regretted and missed by his heartbroken parents; Michael and Sharon, sister Sara, nannie Sheila Darcy, aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family and friends

One of two young men killed in a tragic road crash in Co Donegal will be laid to rest later this week.

Shaun McClafferty (17) and his friend Jamie Diver (20s) both died and two other men were injured when their vehicle collided with the gable wall of a house in the townland of Baltoney, Gortahork, at around 9.30pm on Friday night.

The injured men are both in a serious condition in Letterkenny University Hospital and Beaumont Hospital in Dublin.

Mr McClaffertys funeral will be held this Thursday, March 6 and tributes have been flowing in for the young man online.

One person wrote: Heartfelt condolences to Shaun's Mum, Dad, little sister and all who loved him. Heartbroken for you all.

Another said: Deepest condolences to all Shaun's family, my thoughts and prayers are with you all, may his gentle soul RIP.

A funeral notice posted online by Kieran Roarty Funeral Directors reads: Predeceased by his grandparents; John and Maire McClafferty, his aunt Cait McFadden and his papa Martin Darcy.

"Deeply regretted and missed by his heartbroken parents; Michael and Sharon, sister Sara, nannie Sheila Darcy, aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family and friends.

A private removal from the Eternal Light Chapel of Rest, Mountain Top, Letterkenny, will take place on Monday at 5pm, going to the family home in Baltoney, Gortahork.

The family home and wake is strictly private however, all mourners are welcome to attend the funeral mass.

The funeral will be held in Teach Pobail Chriost Ri, Gortahork on Thursday, March 6, at 11am, with burial afterwards in the adjacent cemetery.
Firefighters arrived and both cars were well alight

A car fire on the M2. Credit: Trafficwatch

Two people have been taken to hospital following a two-vehicle crash on the M2 in Northern Ireland which caused both vehicles involved to catch fire.

The crash occurred near Fortwilliam on Monday morning resulting in long traffic delays while emergency services attended the scene.

A spokesperson for Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) confirmed one appliance from Westland Fire Station, another from Knock Fire Station and two fire engines from Whitla Fire Station were despatched.

"Firefighters were called to reports of a two vehicle road traffic collision on Fortwilliam Roundabout, York Street," they said.

Firefighters arrived and both cars were well alight.

"Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus used two hose reels to extinguish the fire."

Both injured parties were able to get themselves to safety before fire crews arrived and were subsequently treated by paramedics.

The incident was dealt with by 6:43am.

An NI Ambulance Service (NIAS) spokesperson said it received a 999 call at 6:02am.

"NIAS despatched two emergency crews, they added.

"Following assessment and initial treatment at the scene, two patients were taken to Royal Victoria Hospital by Ambulance."

The M2 motorway at Fortwilliam was closed for a time but has since re-opened.
Israel has stopped the entry of all goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip and has warned of additional consequences if Hamas does not accept a new proposal for a ceasefire extension

Four trucks with aid funded by Ireland are among those being blocked from entering Gaza.

The Irish aid trucks contain food aid and emergency shelter and are currently in Amman in Jordan, unable to enter Gaza to deliver the supplies.

Israel has stopped the entry of all goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip and has warned of additional consequences if Hamas does not accept a new proposal for a ceasefire extension and it is understood Irish trucks are among those impacted.

Tanaiste and Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Harris confirmed the developing situation to the Irish Independent.

What we are seeing in Gaza and the fact aid from Ireland and other countries cant get in is extremely worrying .

I have sanctioned four trucks of aid to be despatched that will support 6,000 people. Our priority now is to work through our diplomatic channels and with our international allies to ensure this aid can get in to help the people of Gaza - children, women and men who are enduring devastating conditions. They are our priority at this moment.

He continued: Recent weeks saw a much-needed increase in aid reaching people in Gaza. Any threat to that poses a serious risk to peoples lives.

"The ceasefire and hostage release deal brought hope to Israelis and Palestinians. It is essential that both sides maintain this agreement and meet their commitments through all of its phases. We need to see a further release of hostages. Above all, a resumption of hostilities must be avoided.

The Tanaiste said the aid trucks were essential and that he is concerned that the Irish aid will be delayed getting to those who need it.

"There is an enormous need for humanitarian aid in Gaza. Ireland has been supporting our UN partners to deliver aid to people in Gaza. We also have trucks with food and shelter ready to depart Jordan. These trucks are carrying aid donated by Ireland and will bring much-needed relief.

"I am concerned that a decision to halt aid entering Gaza will lead to delays in these Irish stocks reach the people they are intended for.

Israel stopped the entry of all goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip on Sunday and warned of additional consequences if Hamas doesnt accept a new proposal to extend a fragile ceasefire, while key mediator Egypt accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon.

Hamas accused Israel of trying to derail the ceasefire agreement hours after its first phase ended. It called the decision to cut off aid cheap extortion, a war crime and a blatant attack on the truce, which took hold in January after over a year of negotiations. Both sides stopped short of saying the ceasefire had ended.

The first phase, which included a surge in humanitarian assistance after months of growing hunger in the territory, expired on Saturday. The two sides have yet to negotiate the second phase, in which Hamas was to release dozens of remaining hostages in return for an Israeli pullout from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire. Talks should have begun a month ago.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty condemned Israels decision as a flagrant and clear violation of humanitarian law, and called for the immediate implementation of the second phase.

The International Committee of the Red Cross, which has facilitated the releases of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, said the ceasefire has saved countless lives, and any unravelling of the forward momentum created over the last six weeks risks plunging people back into despair.

Israel described the new proposal as a US one. There was no immediate comment from the United States, and it was not clear when US envoy Steve Witkoff, expected to visit the region last week, would arrive.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that under the existing agreements Israel could resume fighting after the first phase if it believes negotiations are ineffective. He said the ceasefire would only continue if Hamas keeps releasing hostages, telling his Cabinet there will be no free lunches. He said Israel was full coordinated with President Donald Trumps administration.

The war has left most of Gazas population of over 2 million dependent on international aid. Hundreds of aid trucks had entered Gaza daily since the ceasefire began on January 19, easing fears of famine raised by international experts.

But residents said prices doubled as word of the closure spread.

Everyone is worried, said Sayed al-Dairi in Gaza City. This is not a life.

Fayza Nassar in the heavily destroyed urban Jabaliya refugee camp said the closure would worsen already dire conditions.

There will be famine and chaos, she said.

Israel said the new proposal called for extending the ceasefire through Ramadan  the Muslim holy month that began over the weekend  and the Jewish Passover holiday, which ends on April 20.

Under that proposal, Hamas would release half the hostages on the first day and the rest when an agreement is reached on a permanent ceasefire, Netanyahu said.

Hamas warned that any attempt to delay or cancel the ceasefire agreement would have humanitarian consequences for the hostages. It reiterated that the only way to free them is through implementing the existing deal.

Hamas has said it is willing to free the hostages all at once in Phase 2, but only in return for the release of more Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

An Egyptian official said Hamas and Egypt would not accept a new proposal aimed at returning the remaining hostages without ending the war. The official, who was not authorized to brief media and spoke on condition of anonymity, said mediators were trying to resolve the dispute.

Under the first, six-week phase of the ceasefire, Hamas released 25 Israeli hostages and the bodies of eight others in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, including some serving life sentences for deadly attacks and others held without charge. Israeli forces pulled back from most of Gaza and Israel allowed a surge of humanitarian aid to enter.

The first phase was marred by repeated disputes.

Israeli strikes killed dozens of Palestinians who the military said had approached its forces or entered areas in violation of the truce. On Sunday, Israel carried out an airstrike on Palestinians it said were planting an explosive device in northern Gaza near the border. Gazas Health Ministry said two men were killed and that Israeli fire killed two other people elsewhere.

Hamas paraded most captives  some of them emaciated  before crowds in spectacles that Israel and the United Nations said were cruel and degrading. And it initially returned the wrong set of remains instead of those of a mother who was killed in captivity along with her two young children.

Israel sought to restrict public celebrations over released Palestinian prisoners, and some were freed wearing shirts emblazoned with a Star of David and the phrase Never forgive, never forget in Arabic. Some people threw their sweatshirts on the ground and burned them.

Israel imposed a siege on Gaza in the wars opening days and only eased it under US pressure. UN agencies and aid groups accused Israel of not facilitating enough aid during 15 months of war.

The International Criminal Court said there was reason to believe Israel had used starvation as a method of warfare when it issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu last year. The allegation is also central to South Africas case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.

Israel has denied the accusations and rejected both court actions as being biased. Israel says it has allowed in enough aid and blamed shortages on what it called the UNs inability to distribute it. Israel accused Hamas of siphoning off aid.

Kenneth Roth, the former head of Human Rights Watch, said Israel as an occupying power has an absolute duty to facilitate humanitarian aid under the Geneva Conventions, and called Israels decision a resumption of the war-crime starvation strategy that led to the ICC warrant.

The war began when Hamas-led militants stormed into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostage. The militants currently hold 59 hostages, 35 of them believed to be dead.

Israels offensive has killed over 48,000 Palestinians, according to Gazas Health Ministry. It says more than half of those killed were women and children. It does not specify how many of the dead were combatants.

Israeli bombardment pounded large areas of Gaza to rubble and displaced some 90pc of the population.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Azerbaijan remains a key gas supplier for Bulgaria, the Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Fariz Rzayev said at an event dedicated to Bulgaria's National Liberation Day, Trend reports.

Speaking at the event, Rzayev emphasized the importance of energy cooperation between the two countries.

"Azerbaijan supplies more than 50 percent of Bulgaria's gas consumption. We consider energy to be a strategic sector and are committed to further strengthening our relations in this area," he pointed out.

The deputy minister also said that Bulgaria has become an important transit hub for transporting Azerbaijani gas to Europe, which is a successful example of bilateral partnership.

"Energy cooperation is the foundation of our strategic partnership, and we look forward to expanding our interaction in this area," Rzayev added.

To note, Azerbaijan has doubled its natural gas supplies to Bulgaria in 2024, reaching two billion cubic meters.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Irish sperm donor has fathered a gang of children in Australia

Andy got to meet Reno on their date

A young gay man who went to work on a farm in Australia donated sperm and is now the father of eight kids Down Under.

Dubliner Andy (33) confesses that when he saw the sperm donor documentary The Man With 1,000 Kids that it scared the life out of me and he decided to find out how many hes fathered to date.

Andy explains on RTEs First Dates that he was 25 when he got a job on a farm in Australia for five months, and then moved to Sydney for a while.

I donated sperm in Australia. I was very surprised someone even took up my offer, he laughs.

Andy got to meet Reno on their date

I may never use my own sperm to have my biological children, so being able to give that to somebody else and give someone else the opportunity to have a family was just something selfless I kind of couldnt pass by.

I had seen so many of my friends struggle through IVF, I was like Im part of somebody elses journey now.

But Andy was alarmed when he watched the Netflix documentary about Jonathan Meijer, a Dutch YouTuber who is believed to have fathered more than 500 children.

It scared the living life out of me, exclaims Andy, who adds that unlike most sperm donors he was not paid.

So, I had to reach out to them [the clinic] and find out if there was any update. On the first update, there were five children. I think theres seven at the moment, and theres going to be eight.

Jonathan Meijer

There is also a limit to the amount of children he can father.

It can only used by four families, and those four families can only have three children, he says.

And there is also no personal contact.

Its a drawn line, Im not a father, Im a sperm donor, and thats it. Theres no contact whatsoever, he points out.

He says the kids involved can find out at the age of 18 who their biological father is.

If theyre anything like me I think theyd be a bit curious and theyd want to find out, he smiles. But he adds with a laugh: I think if someone was calling me Daddy Id be like No!

Andys date on the show is South African Reno Malidis (38), who has lived in Cork for the last five years.

The whole story with the sperm donor thing was good. Trying to help other people... thats actually really nice, thats hot to be fair, says Reno.

Both men play for gay and inclusive rugby teams, Andy for Emerald Warriors in Dublin and Reno for Cork Hellhounds.

I cant remember the last time I was chatted up in a bar, complains Andy.

I think that kind of world is fading over time. People dont have that human connection, where theyd probably go up. Im probably the same. Theres that bit of nervousness as well.

He would like a partner whos kind of sporty or into the outdoors. I dont think fussy would be the right word. Im just waiting for that good connection, he says.

Reno, too, has had trouble finding the right man.

I like to go to different cities and go on Tinder and swipe and see how many people like me back. Its always good if theres lots of likes, yes people like me! But they never get anywhere, he moans.

My roots are from Greece. Im Mediterranean, so for some reason Im not into guys that look like me a little bit.

Most of my life Ive been pretty much single, so I know myself pretty well. I also dont judge anyone or anything like that. Im very open minded.

I start liking someone, and then they start liking me a bit too much. Then I start getting quite claustrophobic. I think thats because Ive been single most of my life, but Im working on it.
Jeremy Capper was the sole survivor of a triple fatality near Taihape. He lost his foot, which ended up 100 metres away, then had to have his left arm and leg amputated. Photo / Mike Scott

It happened so quickly ... I collected the left side of his vehicle, and he collected mine. I thought, what the f*** are you doing? Capper says.

Then, out of nowhere, he saw a black Toyota Hilux ute coming at him.

Capper was mindful of the speed limit, aware his three friends were following close behind on their own bikes.

As Jeremy Capper rode his Harley-Davidson around a sweeping bend he felt the warmth of the morning sun on his back.

The president of the Sulphur City Motorcycle Club bounced off the ute, skidded 100 metres and briefly blacked out.

I remember everything, the noise, the sparks, sliding on gravel and seeing the car on its side. There was debris everywhere, I asked a witness to the accident, Am I bleeding? Am I missing anything? He said, Your foot. It was 100 metres away, I thought thats a bummer'. I slid on my belly and crushed my arm, my hand was mangled, and I smashed my elbow. My last words were, please dont let me bleed out.

Lesley Brooks, 46, was one of three people killed in a head-on collision near Taihape. Photo / Supplied

Capper and three of his mates, Lesley Brooks, 46, Luke Shaw and Jacob Pudding Coady, both 24, had all attended a bike rally in Mangaweka for the Manawatu chapter of the Road Pirates the previous night.

They had just finished breakfast and were heading along State Highway 1 in Utiku near Taihape on December 7 around 8am when the unthinkable happened. Capper was the sole survivor of the four friends.

Luke Shaw and Jacob Coady, both 24, were killed in a triple fatality near Taihape on December 7, 2024. Photo / Supplied

Critically injured, Capper was flown to Wellington Hospital and then on to Hamilton, where he was in an induced coma for nearly six weeks. He says he is lucky to be alive but devastated he lost an arm, a leg and his three friends.

That tore me up.

Capper says police told him the ute driver had taken methamphetamine before the crash.

I am p***ed off my life has changed. The driver is an oxygen thief. I hope he will be punished.

Jeremy Capper was in an induced coma for six weeks. He was nearly killed by a driver who is alleged to have been under the influence of methamphetamine. Photo / Mike Scott

Last week the driver, 51, appeared in Palmerston North District Court. The man, who has interim name suppression, is accused of being under the influence of methamphetamine and causing a fatal crash killing three people and seriously injuring another.

He was also charged with driving under the influence of a drug to such an extent as to be incapable of operating a motor vehicle.

Capper says the driver was in critical condition but discharged himself from hospital a day after the accident.

Everyone thought he was dead. I have nothing to say to him, he can get f***ed.

Jeremy Capper with his wife Tania. He is grateful for all the support he has received from friends but especially his mother Lucia and Tania. They have been at his bedside for 84 days. Photo / Mike Scott

Capper, a fitter and welder, is thankful for the support he has received from friends and especially his mother Lucia and his wife Tania, who have taken turns to be with him for the past 84 days.

Lucia Capper was planning drinks with her girlfriends for Christmas when Tania phoned to say three people had died but no one knew who had survived the crash.

Its the worst feeling in the world for a mother not knowing if your son was alive. For six weeks it was touch-and-go, he needed 40 bags of blood. Hed broken his pelvis, punctured his stomach and bowels and lost his limbs. I was determined not to lose Jeremy, my youngest son Lucas, 26, died in a forestry accident in 2009, Lucia said.

Jeremy Capper lost an arm and a leg, and three friends when he was critically injured in a head-on collision near Taihape. Photo / Mike Scott

Tania Capper said when the surgeon said she needed to remove her husbands arm and leg, she burst into tears.

He is an extrovert, Im an introvert. He loves socialising and we love riding our bikes, together. I am devastated about whats happened, three people died. Right now, I am staying focused and preparing for Jeremy to come home.

Tania and Jeremy were childhood friends but drifted apart when Tania was sent to boarding school.

Thirty years on, the couple bumped into each other at the Warehouse and reconnected. Tania says marrying her childhood sweetheart at the Sulphur City Motorcycle club four years ago was one of the best days of her life.

Capper says he is grateful he survived and acknowledges its a long road to recovery.

Jeremy Capper says he feels sad he survived and led his three friends into disaster. Photo / Mike Scott

And its the simple things he says he will miss. From his hospital window, he sees someone walking their dog.

My life has completely changed, and it p***es me off that I cant do simple s*** like walking a dog anymore or opening a bag of chips. At this age I need to learn how to do basic things again, but it is what it is.

Next month, the couple are hoping to reunite with the friends' families for a memorial service near the crash site.

I feel sad I survived, and they didnt. I feel responsible for leading them into a disaster but it was out of our control and shouldnt have happened.
After campaigning for more than four years, Welcome Bay residents Tina Neville and Sonia Anderson are thrilled three automated external defibrillators have been installed in the area.

Im very happy because I know that these are going to save somebodys life, if not many lives, said Neville.

After a close friends life was saved by an AED, Neville personally understands the importance of the easy-to-use small device that gives a safe electric shock to someone having a sudden cardiac arrest.

Following this, the Welcome Bay Zumba instructor asked her friends for money in lieu of presents when she turned 50 and purchased her own AED which is always in her car.

A lot of people who attend my classes are over 50. Always having an AED on hand means that should anyone have a sudden cardiac arrest, I know I can potentially save a life.

Neville and Anderson, a nurse at Tauranga Hospital, have been campaigning for publicly available AEDs in the Welcome Bay area because there were disproportionately fewer in the ward compared with other areas in Tauranga.

The friends reached out to Bay Venues to get support to put them outside their locations in the area and, more recently, contacted Welcome Bay Ward Councillor Hautapu Baker, who understood the value of this initiative.

Tauranga City Council acknowledges the need for publicly available AEDs within the ward and are happy to support this initiative by providing two AEDs for the area - one at the Welcome Bay Community Centre, and the other at the Waipuna Park Pavilion, explained Baker.

Hato Hone St John Tauranga also donated an AED to Selwyn Ridge School in December 2024.

Bay Venues community centres and halls manager Piers Zajac-Wiggett said in addition to the new council-funded AEDs in Welcome Bay, three new AEDs have been installed by Bay Venues at the Bethlehem Hall, Cliff Road Hall and Elizabeth Street Community and Arts Centre.

Through working in partnership with council and the community, its really pleasing to have such a positive outcome in that we now have six more AEDs available across the city for people to access 24/7, says Zajac-Wiggett.

Neville and Anderson are exploring further opportunities for AEDs to be available at independent facilities  one each for Maungatapu and Ohauiti, and an additional one in Welcome Bay. They also hope to organise free, basic CPR courses for the community.

An AED can increase someones chance of survival by up to 80% if applied immediately. We need to empower our people through our connections, and teach them basic CPR, explained Anderson.

The new AEDs will be located outside the venues, but its important to remember that if an AED isnt available in the immediate vicinity, CPR should be administered.
Update, 6.30pm: A Powerco spokesperson said power is now restored to all customers in the Gate Pa area.

A power outage occurred at 5.55pm on Sunday, affecting close to 2000 customers in Tauranga.

On Monday, some Gate Pa residents still had no power to their properties, despite their power companies and Powerco telling them its all fixed.

Powerco said upon investigation, the company needed to turn the power off to some of the 2000 customers today to safely access and repair the network.

We apologise for the inconvenience this causes customers.

Powerco thanks customers for their patience.

Earlier, 3.30pm: Some Gate Pa residents are perplexed after both Powerco and their individual power companies told them its all fixed following a power cut on Sunday night.

The powers still off, said Chris, a Hynds Road resident dealing with having to throw out a freezer full of frozen food, 21 hours after the outage.

We rang our power company who said Powerco had reported to them that its all fixed.

My neighbour rang Powerco to say the power is still out, who said, get in touch with your power company.

The power company Contact said its fixed and told them that they should get in touch with Powerco.

Ive tried to get in touch with Powerco, but the message comes up that unless its an emergency you need to contact your power company directly.

The getting nowhere fast dilemma began about 6pm on Sunday.

We heard an extremely loud arcing noise which lasted about five to six seconds, Chris said.

It was so loud. Half the street came out to see what was happening.

Some I spoke to reported seeing large flaming arcs coming from the Chadwick Road direction going up above the power lines into the sky. It was so loud it sounded like it was just outside our window, but it was about 500 metres down the road.

Chris said many neighbours called their power companies on Sunday night.

We saw some Powerco trucks last night and again this morning, out and about.

The Powerco website showed 96 properties still affected on Sunday night.

It went down to zero houses affected about 9am this morning, although our places were still without power. And the power is still off at our house in Hynds Rd and at least four other neighbours.

But Powerco and our power companies are saying to us its all fixed. Its been 21 hours now with no power. Im having to throw out all the food from the freezer.

A Powerco spokesperson said there was a power cut at 5.55pm on Sunday affecting close to 2000 customers in Tauranga.

The cause of the outage is under investigation. Power was restored to the majority of customers by midnight via generation.

Powerco said upon investigation, the company needed to turn the power off to some of the 2000 customers today to safely access and repair the network.

As customers power is on, thanks to generation, nothing will show on the outage map. Apologies that we cant provide an accurate number of customers who will have their power turned off to safely fix the fault, but we endeavour to ensure the outage causes minimal impact.

We apologise for the inconvenience this causes customers.

Power is expected to be restored to all customers by 6pm tonight. [Monday March 3]. Powerco thanks customers for their patience as we carry out these essential repairs.
Five people are vying to be Taurangas new Maori ward councillor.

Nominations have closed for the Te Awanui Maori Ward by-election after Mikaere Sydney resigned his position in January.

Sydney was elected to Tauranga City Council in July 2024 but was unable to take up his position due to illness and has been on unpaid medical leave.

Mayor Mahe Drysdale said the by-election was being held under unfortunate circumstances, but it was good five candidates were standing.

Its now up to voters to have their say on who they think will best represent Te Awanui at the council governance table.

He encouraged people with an interest in the ward to get involved in the by-election.

Enrol on the Maori roll if you are eligible, get to know the candidates who are standing, and then make sure voting papers are submitted when voting officially opens next month.

Tauranga electoral officer Warwick Lampp said the by-election would cost about $55,000.

Te Awanui ward byelection candidates

Suaree Borrell



Te Awanui Maori Ward 2025 byelection candidate Suaree Borrell. Photo / Supplied

Borrell was the runner-up in the July 2024 election. She previously told Local Democracy Reporting she stood in council elections to raise civic awareness and to encourage other Maori to stand.

Its my job to focus on getting wahine Maori into local elections, she said last year.

Democracy was about representation and she believed, on balance, Pakeha males were well-represented.

To get the best form of democracy  you need the diversity at the decision-making table, otherwise all youre going to get is the same perspective.

Borrells hapu is Pirirakau and she is the deputy chairwoman on the board of her iwi Ngati Ranginui.

George Ngatai



Te Awanui Maori Ward 2025 byelection candidate George Ngatai. Photo / Supplied

Ngatai is a breakfast radio host on Aotearoa FM and chief executive of the Whanau Ora Community Clinic in Auckland.

He said he is a proud descendant of Ngati Whakahemo, Ngati Awa, and Ngati Maniapoto.

He wanted to bring a strong Maori voice and inclusive leadership to local government.

Driven by his passion for community development and the importance of genuine relationships with local iwi, Ngatai said strengthening partnerships between the council and mana whenua was essential for Taurangas continued growth.

His goal was to serve as a voice for Maori communities throughout Tauranga.

David Ratima



Te Awanui Maori Ward 2025 byelection candidate David Ratima. Photo / Supplied

Ratima said he was ready to commit full-time to whakawhanaugatanga (building relationships and connections).

He said he was most interested in the decisions councils and boards make about communities and the services they deliver to communities.

Councils must take appropriate account of the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi to facilitate participation, he said.

I believe we have a responsibility to represent all communities within our rohe that encompasses Te Awanui Maori Ward.

He is of Ngati Ranginui, Ngai Te Rangi, Ngati Pukenga, Ngati Whakaue, Raukawa, Tainui, and Ngati Kahungunu descent.

Hemi Rolleston



Te Awanui Maori Ward 2025 byelection candidate Hemi Rolleston. Photo / Supplied

Rolleston is Mikaere Sydneys uncle and organised a fundraiser for his nephew.

He was standing as a proud descendant of Tauranga Moana iwi.

He said he had the connections, skills, experience, qualifications and heart to be an effective and passionate advocate for Maori and for the benefit of all.

Over the past two decades he has held senior executive positions at Te Awanui Hukapak and Callaghan Innovation, and Crown Research Institute Scion.

He said he had skills and experience in governance. He is currently the chairman of McDiarmid Institute, InZone Education Foundation, Community Governance Aotearoa, and Ngati Whakaue Assets.

Ange Webster



Te Awanui Maori Ward 2025 byelection candidate Ange Webster. Photo / Supplied

Webster said she has experience on boards ranging from whanau trusts to national organisations across sectors such as disability, education, and tourism.

Her campaign would be grounded in upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi in every decision made at the council table.

I believe its time for all of us to come together, unite our thinking, and act as one.

By bringing our values into local governance, we can create a more inclusive and accountable Tauranga for all our whanau.

The details

 Postal voting documents will be sent and voting opens on April 7.

 Election day voting closes on April 29 at 12pm.

 The results will be announced by May 5.

Enrolling to vote

People of Maori descent can choose which roll they want to be on.

If they are on the general roll and want to vote in this by-election, they can change to the Maori roll up to election day by going to the Electoral Commissions website www.vote.nz, or by texting a name and address to 3676 to get a form sent, or by calling 0800 3676 56.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Alekk M. Saanders Monday, 3 March 2025, 20:57 Compartir

On 3 March 1875, the Paris Opera-Comique premiered the opera Carmen, based on Prosper Merimee's novel Carmen, which was first published in 1845.

It is known that the French writer was absolutely enchanted by Spain, which he visited in 1830 for the first time.

Although the action of the beautiful gypsy girl with a great temperament takes place in Seville in the 1820s, it is believed that Prosper Merimee's impressions from his visits to Malaga and Ronda are also reflected in Carmen.

Perhaps the cradle of bullfighting, Ronda, could have been the inspiration for his story, which features not only tobacco factory workers but also bullfighters among others. Incidentally, it is believed that the novel's representation of almost all layers of society of the time attracted Georges Bizet, who embodied it in an opera.

It is believed that Prosper Merimee's impressions from his visits to Malaga and Ronda are also reflected in Carmen

However, while the novel Carmen was a notable success, garnering up to over 20 editions by the end of the 19th century, the premiere of the opera Carmen was a failure. It is believed that the half-empty auditoriums and negative reviews in the press so affected the composer that he decided to leave the French capital.

Historians consider that Georges Bizet took the criticisms with him to his grave because he died just three months after the premiere, at the age of 36. Thus Bizet never enjoyed the worldwide recognition of his opera and never set foot in Seville.

Georges Bizet never enjoyed the worldwide recognition of his opera Carmen and never set foot in Seville

In fact, staging an opera in which a flirtatious, free-spirited gypsy woman finds herself murdered by her jealous lover was a risky decision. The production of Carmen sparked real controversy before it even hit the stage.

Bizet's choice of Carmen reportedly caused tensions between the two directors of the Opera-Comique, resulting in one of them resigning. The Opera-Comique, once known for its witty, satirical productions, due to Carmen, became the setting for a tragic play with no happy ending.

In 1881, Carmen arrived in Spain. Six years after its premiere in Paris, the Theatre Lirico in Barcelona staged Carmen starring Celestina Galli-Marie, the first performer of the role in France. Another six years passed when Carmen was first performed at the Zarzuela Theatre in Madrid. Since then, and because it has been translated into Spanish, Carmen has been widely performed. That said, Carmen, apparently, did not reach Seville until 1992. During the Expo, Carmen was staged for the first time at the Maestranza Theatre, which is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the premiere of the legendary opera with June performances of Carmen by the British director Karel Mark Chichon.

Zoom Carmen - poster in Paris. SUR

Carmen in Seville

Carmen was inspired by Andalusian folklore. Bizet's original music is so poignant and seductive that it is easily adapted to flamenco.

"The passion that characterises the protagonist, as well as the turbulent story she tells, make it ideal for presentation through dance and song. And flamenco is known to convey all the feelings of passion and love, rage and jealousy, and even murder.... That is why we have included a fragment from Bizet's Carmen in our daily flamenco show," Manuel Diaz from Tablao Flamenco El Palacio Andaluz told SUR in English.

The artists of El Palacio Andaluz located in Seville on Isla Magica have been performing adaptations of Carmen on the flamenco stage for 30 years. This means that Carmen lives and dances in the Andalusian capital, every time awakening a torrent of feelings, twice a day at 7pm and 9.30pm, accompanied by drinks and food if desired. Bookings and more info on elflamencoensevilla.com
Alekk M. Saanders Monday, 3 March 2025, 20:41 Compartir

The romantic comedy A Touch of Glass is the only Oscar-winning film where the Costa del Sol is not only part of the plot but also the location for filming. In 1973, the British film was nominated for five Academy Awards. However, the only Oscar awarded was rejected.

Uncomplicated sex in a sunny place

The film was adapted from the story She Loves Me, She Told Me So Last Night by Melvyn Frank, who actually directed the film. The adventure began one rainy afternoon. Vicky, a divorced mother, shared a cab with a strange man. The encounter with the American executive, Steve, was repeated the next day over tea and then lunch. As Steve was married, it was a relationship without commitment. When it came to sex, Vicky preferred to have uncomplicated sex in a sunny place. Steve had no choice but to organise a trip to the Costa del Sol. The stay in Marbella was hilarious at times and finally did not go as planned.

Filming on the Costa del Sol

The British production crew with British actress Glenda Jackson and American actor George Segal arrived in the Costa del Sol in 1972 for filming mostly in Malaga and Marbella. For example, the bullfighting scenes were filmed in the Malagueta bullring where Segal emotionally covered his eyes so as not to see the matador fighting the bull. The Guadalmina Hotel in Marbella was also part of this film by hosting the unfaithful couple.

Glenda Jackson later confessed that she was absolutely against an Oscar for A Touch of Glass

Apparently, Jackson and Segal felt so comfortable and natural on the Costa del Sol that the chemistry that arose between the actors during their dialogues, became the very engine that set this comedy in motion. In addition, Glenda Jackson easily managed to be very different at the same time - powerful and vulnerable, fragile and strong, skilfully combining seduction and repellency.

A Touch of Glass had its world premiere in London in May 1973. On the Costa del Sol, the film was first shown under the Spanish title Un Toque de Distincion (A Touch of Distinction), on the big screen in the second passenger terminal of Malaga Airport, which opened in 1972.

Unexpected nominations

The acting of the main characters in the film was very well received by critics. Both actors won a Golden Globe. In addition, the film was nominated for an Oscar in five categories but only awarded for Best Actress. This was also a surprise because the frontrunners in the category were Marsha Mason for Cinderella Liberty or Ellen Burstyn for The Exorcist. Moreover, it is reported that Glenda Jackson's Best Actress Academy Award win for the sweet and sour comedy was so shocking to viewers of the ceremony that a recount was considered for the votes.

Glenda Jackson did not attend the ceremony in Los Angeles to receive her second Oscar (Three years earlier, Jackson had won the Academy Award for Women in Love). The actress later confessed that she was absolutely against an Oscar for A Touch of Glass. She stated that she had done absolutely nothing to receive such a high award. Additionally, she recalled that someone once told her that winning an Oscar was like winning a gold medal at the Olympics. Glenda disagreed because she thought that if you win a gold medal, you know everyone ran the same distance.

Incidentally, Glenda Jackson was recognised as the best actress of the year in Spain as well. The San Sebastian International Film Festival awarded the English actress as well as Melvin Frank for Best Director.
Aemet weather alerts for this Monday and (inset) damage caused by the heavy rains on the Igualeja road, in the Serrania de Ronda.

Ignacio Lillo Malaga Monday, 3 March 2025, 15:01 Compartir

A red 'serious risk' weather alert has been issued in Malaga province this Monday afternoon, 3 March. Spain's Aemet meteorological agency has just raised the alert for heavy downpours to the highest level. Specifically, the most potentially dangerous situation is forecast in Ronda and its local Serrania area, where up to 120mm could accumulate. This could happen between 2pm and 7pm today. Meteorologists warn that "stationary downpours are happening in the area around Pujerra".

In response, the Junta de Andalucia has decided to move up on step in the Peri flood risk plan, which is already in the pre-emergency phase, to operational situation 1. A regional government spokesperson said that this decision corresponds to the Aemet's red warning for Ronda, while the amber level is maintained for the western Costa del Sol, Malaga city and the Guadalhorce Valley.

At the same time, Igualeja town hall, in agreement with the Junta's education department and following the meeting of the alert committee, has taken the decision to allow children to go home early.

Zoom Damage caused by the heavy rains on the Igualeja road. Vanessa Melgar

Other weather warnings

Aemet has also decided to extend the timing of the amber warning in the rest of the affected areas at least until 6pm, according to the latest information from the agency.

Therefore, until then there is a risk of downpours dropping up to 80mm in 12 hours.

As for Antequera, a yellow warning has been activated for possible accumulated rainfall of up to 40mm over the course of the day, more likely in the western half of the area. In addition, there is another active warning: yellow (slight risk) for accumulated rainfall in one hour, which could discharge up to 25mm (again, in the same areas indicated). Although there is no longer a warning for coastal phenomena, Malaga province is being hit by an easterly storm.
Members of the Hermanos de Silencio along with staff and clients from the Taller de la Amistad on Thursday 27 February.

Jennie Rhodes Nerja Monday, 3 March 2025, 07:50 Compartir

The Hermanos and Hermanas de Silencio Motorbike Family based at the Moto Rock Bar HS in Nerja hosted an event for clients and staff of the towns Taller de la Amistad on Thursday 27 February, to celebrate (a day early) Dia de Andalucia.

Around 40 people enjoyed the Dont worry be happy event which included a magic show by Kariko, laughter yoga with Artes Libres Yoga and music by Artes Libres Coro. Hermanos de Silencio member Jim Millar said, The aim was to have a wonderful time for all before the Andalucia day holiday, and added, We have an awful lot of time for Amistad.

Jim described the atmosphere as different from usual, when it is thick with the growl of engines. Instead he said that on Thursday the bar hummed with a different kind of energy. It wasn't the roar of motorcycles, but the delighted laughter of forty individuals from the Taller de la Amistad.

Zoom SUR

Hermanos de Silencio describe themselves as a family-oriented group which has been meeting at the clubhouse on the N340 coastal road at KM 302 near Nerja for seven years.

The group also has other chapters in Spain as well as the United Kingdom and across Europe. The Nerja-based chapter is international, with members from the UK, Spain, Scandinavia, Hungary and Germany, among other countries.

The Taller de la Amistad is a Nerja-based association offering support to children and adults with learning disabilities in the town and the Axarquia area of Malaga province. Its aim is to "defend the rights and improve the quality of life of people with learning disabilities and their families".
Eugenio Cabezas Torre del Mar Monday, 3 March 2025, 16:06 Compartir

Albeit with a delay of almost a year and a half compared with hospitals in Malaga city, the Axarquia hospital in Torre del Mar on the eastern Costa del Sol has also confirmed that it is to stop charging patients to watch television. The Malaga East-Axarquia health management area made the announcement via its social media saying that from Tuesday 4 March patients at the Axarquia hospital will no longer have to pay to watch television during their stay.

This measure was an electoral promise made by the president of the Andalusian regional government, Juanma Moreno, on the first day of the 2022 election campaign. Moreno pledged to bring free wifi to all Andalusian public hospitals as well as a free television service.

Moreno then claimed that a contract signed by the previous socialist PSOE administration of the Junta de Andalucia was in force which obliged patients to pay for television in public hospitals. Moreno promised that as soon as the contract expired, the Andalusian health service (SAS) would take over the service.

The Andalusian president said that as soon as the contract ended, the SAS would take over the television service.

Each hospital had its own contract which meant that end dates varied and the measure has not been without controversy. When Moreno announced as an electoral promise in 2022 that he would stop charging for the use of televisions, the opposition reminded him that this had been attempted in 2018, but that in 2019 the Partido Popular (PP) and Ciudadanos executive (with the support of Vox) paralysed it.

In a press statement sent out on 31 July 2018, the then PSOE government reported that the spokesperson for health at the time, Marina Alvarez, had announced that all public hospitals in Andalucia would in the future offer free television service for patients. "Its implementation, which has already begun in 19 of them, will be carried out gradually until it is extended to the entire Andalusian public health system network in the first half of 2019," she said at the time.

Ongoing since 2018

The press statement pointed out that the 19 hospitals in which the service was in operation were: La Inmaculada, Poniente (first phase) and El Toyo, in Almeria; Hospital de La Linea de la Concepcion (Cadiz); Montilla, Valle del Guadiato and Puente Genil (Cordoba); Loja and Guadix (Granada); Riotinto (Huelva); Alto Guadalquivir, Sierra de Segura, Alcaudete and Alcala la Real (Jaen), and Lebrija, Utrera, Ecija, Sierra Norte and Moron (Seville); none of them in Malaga.

It reported that eight other centres would be incorporated in September of that year: Torrecardenas (Almeria), Jerez de la Frontera (Cadiz), Baza (Granada) and Juan Ramon Jimenez and Infanta Elena (Huelva), as well as the Jaen Hospital Complex and the San Juan de la Cruz hospital in Ubeda and San Agustin in Linares; again, none in Malaga.

The socialist regional government administration announced in July 2018 that it was launching a plan to expand the free service.

"The forecast will be completed during the first half of 2019 with the rest of the hospitals: Poniente de Almeria (second phase); Puerta del Mar, Puerto Real and Punta de Europa (Cadiz); Reina Sofia, Infanta Margarita in Cabra and Valle de los Pedroches in Pozoblanco (Cordoba); Virgen de las Nieves and San Cecilio in Granada city and Santa Ana in Motril (Granada); Antequera, Axarquia, Serrania de Ronda, Costa del Sol and Benalmadena, in the province of Malaga, as well as the Regional and Virgen de la Victoria in the city, Virgen del Rocio, Virgen Macarena, Valme and La Merced de Osuna, in Seville," it said.

However, after the change of government in 2019, this non-renewal of contracts ceased to occur until October 2023, when television was finally free in the centres in Malaga city. Now this free service has also been extended to the Axarquia hospital.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. The Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) meeting will be an opportunity to reaffirm the mutual partnership, a source in the Czech Ministry of Industry and Trade told Trend.

"Reliable energy partnership and cooperation remains the cornerstone of the EU-Azerbaijani and thus also Czech-Azerbaijani relations. Stable energy supplies play a crucial role in terms of European competitiveness and energy security and we believe that the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) meeting will be an opportunity to reaffirm this mutual partnership, which will benefit both parties and regions," said the source.

The source noted that at the moment the Czech Republic does not expect any documents to be signed, however, the situation may change in the next two months.

"Currently, the Czech gas market is saturated mostly by LNG and pipeline gas from Norway. In this regard the Czech Republic considers Azerbaijan an important partner with great potential to help the EU as a whole to further diversify its gas supplies, especially considering the goal to replace Russian gas supplies in the CEE region," added the source.

Baku will host the 11th Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council meeting on April 4 this year.

The Southern Gas Corridor (SGC) is a strategic energy project designed to transport natural gas from the Caspian Sea region to Europe.

The Southern Gas Corridor consists of three main pipeline systems: the South Caucasus Pipeline (SCP), the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP), Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). Its initial capacity is 10 billion cubic meters with the possibility of expanding to 20 billion cubic meters per year.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
Ignacio Lillo Malaga Monday, 3 March 2025, 18:07 Compartir

Adolfo Cayuso lives with his wife, his son and their three German Shepherds in the Valseca area of Los Montes de Malaga. This winter they are suffering the worst invasion of pine processionary caterpillars since they moved there almost a decade ago. According to Cayuso, although the Junta de Andalucia's forestry agents have treated the pine trees that the caterpillars build their nests in, the new products imposed by the European Union are much milder and do not work.

"This year it has exploded, everything is infested with nests, there are hundreds of them," Cayuso says. As a result, once the caterpillars started descending from the trees a month ago, he has been suffering with severe hives which he has to treat with antihistamines and corticoids. "The caterpillars eject their stinging hairs when they feel threatened and here, when it is always a bit windy they fly and I have to go out in a bubble, like a beekeeper, because there are so many hairs in the air. It is a very unpleasant situation," he described. Cayuso said he can't even think about going out for a walk because they even get through his clothes.

"More caterpillars than ever"

He described the situation as "a horror movie" and added, "I'm not squeamish but the rows and balls of caterpillars are everywhere." To make matters worse, Cayuso mainly works from home so doesn't even leave the house every day. The situation is even more dangerous for his dogs: "We have spent a lot of money on vets; one of them is still undergoing treatment," he said.

The family has tried various home methods to try to deal with the caterpillars, but they aren't working. And the cause, in their opinion, is that the insecticide treatments that the Junta has applied this year "do not work as they should". Cayuso says, "The worst thing is that they tell us that they can't do anything, that now everything has to be ecological because of European legislation. They said they have sprayed by ground and aerial means, but with a biological insecticide that consists of bacteria that, rather than killing them, seems they have fed them, because we have never had so many problems."

Zoom Junta admits new insecticides are "less persistent". The regional government's department for sustainability and environment in Malaga admits that there is a problem with both the "biological" and synthetic active substances and products that the EU has authorised. "The difference with those previously authorised and used (mainly diflubenzuron/Dimilin) is that they were considerably more effective and above all much more persistent over time, which resulted in greater ease of application and effectiveness by acting on the entire population of processionary," the department has said. Instead, bacillus/Foray is now being used for the aerial spraying and deltamethrin/Decis on the ground. "Bacillus is not comparable to diflubenzuron as they are totally different methods. It is less effective, much less persistent and much more complicated to apply," they say. "As for the deltamethrin we used before and now it is exactly the same, but much less persistent, which lowers the effectiveness a little bit."

Cayuso also explained that the caterpillars have severely damaged the pine trees they have colonised. "They say that chemical insecticides are not allowed because they affect them, but the forest is infested with thousands of caterpillars and is drying out," he said, adding, "The forest agents are aware that this product does not work. They walk around, they see it and they also suffer from hives, but their hands are tied."

The only solution they have been given is to put a pheromone trap on each tree to stop the caterpillars from coming down, but this is not viable for the family as each device costs 35 euros. "That's a lot of trees and these products are very expensive," Cayuso pointed out.
Pilar Martinez Malaga Monday, 3 March 2025, 15:15 Compartir

Malaga city's new regulations concerning holiday rental properties came into force on 14 January, preventing the granting of new licences in 43 areas of the city where these properties represent or exceed 8% of the residential stock.

The objective pursued by Malaga city hall with this proposal is to put the first major stop to the proliferation of holiday homes in the city. It would seem that the strategy is beginning to bear fruit, albeit minimally.

In a follow-up of data from the Junta de Andalucia's tourist licence register from 29 January until Tuesday last week, the statistics had been showing how registrations in the city have slowed down, although the balance was remaining positive along with a steady growth rate across the province.

However, in the report that shows data up to last Tuesday, the register shows a decrease for the first time, although barely perceptible. The data from the beginning of the sample showed that 13,308 dwellings for tourist use were registered in the capital of the Costa del Sol. Almost a month after the start of monitoring the restrictions, the latest data as of Tuesday morning revealed that the volume of holiday rental properties in the city stood at 13,305.

As the first ever negative balance, Juan Cubo as president of Avva-Pro (the Andalusian tourist housing association) feels this is down to the restriction. The limitations imposed by Malaga council in this modification of the PGOU, plus the previous measure to only allow a property to be licensed as tourist accommodation provided it has access and basic services of electricity and water independently of the rest of the building, seem to be helping.

"The slowdown in registrations in the city of Malaga is clearly linked to the latest prohibitions," said Cubo. He then pointed out that this situation takes on greater meaning if one takes into account that the whole province is witnessing a rush by numerous property owners to register their properties with the tourism department even though they have no short-term plans to market them to tourists.

This is purely to avoid them being refused a licence in future. He considers that this measure "will be the real brake on this activity in the country as a whole". That said, the data from the Junta confirms that, for the whole province, the volume of holiday rental properties continues unabated, rising from 81,179 on 29 January to 81,902 on Tuesday.

3.305 13,305 tourist homes in Malaga city had been registered with the Junta de Andalucia up to Tuesday last week, three fewer than on 29 January, just days after the restrictions laid down by Malaga council came into force

Cubo explains that from 3 April a modification made by central government to the Horizontal Property Law will come into force, in which by default, any owner with a property in a community of neighbours cannot register it as a tourist property.

In order to secure that licence, an express and individual authorisation of three fifths of the residents' assembled for a formal meeting is required. At present, by default, if there is no express and global prohibition by the community, they can be registered as holiday rental properties and are not subject to any other subsequent decision to ban them in future as the decision cannot be backdated.

Hence, many of those engaged in managing this sector are informing the owners of this impending change. Cubo is adamant that this "means that the local and regional governing bodies have lost their influence in this matter. This modification is really going to make a dent in the holiday rental sector. More than any other municipal-level prohibition."

Consultants specialising in this trade highlight that this new measure does not affect properties already in operation, but remind us that "those without a licence must obtain it before that date to avoid depending on the community granting permission."

What is more, they point out that Andalucia is the Spanish region with the highest number of tourist homes and Malaga is the province with the highest concentration of this type of accommodation and so "at a global level there is an avalanche of registrations" to overcome this new obstacle. This development is not yet being felt in Malaga city as municipal prohibitions are already taking precedence.

Cancelling licences

Coupled with these measures there is also the fact that the Junta de Andalucia has already started the process of cancelling the tourist licences granted to almost 1,500 dwellings. These are properties that had been registered after the approval of the new regional regulation that limited tourist housing to ground floor flats and detached houses. This move may also have had an impact on this first negative balance of dwellings for tourist use registered in the provincial capital by Turismo.

The regional tourism ministry confirms that 500 'deregistrations' have already taken place, corresponding to properties whose owners have not lodged an appeal against losing said licences. The rest are progressing, but the process could take several months given that the regulation is very protective in terms of providing legal certainty to the owner to appeal and challenge these decisions.

In the meantime, the new decree on urgent housing measures, approved last Monday by the Spanish government's cabinet, includes a provision that includes new actions to support the decisions of local councils in terms of limiting this activity and in the event of possible appeals. The aim is to establish greater legal rigour whenever there are reasons of general interest.
Europa Press Madrid Monday, 3 March 2025, 19:43 Compartir

Spain's Ministry of Finance has lowered the IVA sales tax on speciality breads, including gluten-free bread, from 10 to four per cent following a Supreme Court ruling that this super-reduced IVA rate should be applied so that they are the same as 'normal' bread, which already enjoys this lower tax.

This is stated in the resolution of 24 February of the Directorate General of Taxes on the IVA rate applicable to bread, published on Thursday 27 February in Spain's Official State Bulletin (BOE) and reported by Europa Press.

The reduced rate of four per cent will be applicable to products which "have been made with gluten-free flour, either naturally or because it has undergone a special treatment to reduce its gluten content, or in which flour has been replaced by other naturally gluten-free ingredients, even if these are the majority of the ingredients".

From 10 to four per cent.

Plain bread is bread made with flour, water, yeast or sourdough and salt and is subject to IVA at four per cent, while speciality bread is bread that contains more ingredients and can be made in a different way and cooked in different ways. This category of special breads includes multigrain, baguette, ciabatta, toasted bread, breadsticks, biscotti, sliced bread or breadcrumbs and also gluten-free bread, which until now were taxed at 10 per cent and will now also be taxed at four per cent.

The Supreme Court ruling of last October establishes that the current wording of the IVA Law "opposes the principle of neutrality", according to which the difference between tax rates must take into account the average consumer's perspective on these products.

The Spanish association of bakery, Viennese pastry and confectionery industries has welcomed the decision of the Ministry of Finance.

Sources from the Ministry of Finance told Europa Press that the super-reduced rate for special breads has been in force since the publication of the Supreme Court ruling last October and that the resolution published on Thursday in the Official State Bulletin is to provide legal certainty to operators.

The Spanish association of bakery, Viennese pastry and confectionery industries (Asemac) has welcomed the decision by the Ministry of Finance.
Marcy, N.Y.  The man who died at a Utica-area state prison over the weekend was a 22-year-old accused of killing two people in Harlem within 27 hours, according to state police and the Manhattan prosecutors office.

Messiah Nantwi, of the Bronx, was taken early Saturday from Mid-State Correctional Facility in Oneida County to Wynn Hospital in Utica, according to Beau Duffy, a spokesperson for the New York State Police. Nantwi was declared dead a short time later.

The circumstances surrounding his death are part of an ongoing investigation by the state police, with the assistance of the state prison systems Office of Special Investigations, Duffy said.

Several inmates told The New York Times Nantwi was beaten by guards.

Thomas Mailey, a spokesperson for the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision has declined to say why the inmate was taken to the hospital or whether staff had used any force.

Eleven employees involved in the Nantwi case have been placed on administrative leave, Mailey said.

The state Attorney Generals Office has opened a preliminary assessment into the death. The office has special powers under state law to investigate any deaths that result from an action, or inaction, of law enforcement officers, including corrections officers.

Nantwi has been in the Mid-State facility since May 30, 2024. He was serving five years after being charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, according to DOCCS records.

But he was still facing two counts of second-degree murder, according to state court records. He was accused of killing two people in Harlem within 27 hours in 2023, according to the Manhattan district attorneys office.

At that time, Nantwi was out on bail following a shootout with police, The New York Times reported. In that case, Nantwi was accused of first- and second-degree attempted murder after an encounter with police, the Times reported. Officers had approached Nantwi, who was carrying spray paint cans.

When they tried to arrest him, he used a pistol to fire three shots. The police shot 31 rounds and Nantwi was injured, the Times reported.

Mid-State Correctional Facility is a medium-security state prison located in Oneida County, about seven miles west of Utica. It had 1,241 inmates as of Feb. 1, records show.

Nantwi died during a turbulent time for the state prison system.

Many corrections officers have been on an illegal wildcat strike for the past two weeks, despite a judge ordering them back to work. Thousands of National Guard personnel have been deployed to prisons across the state.

State officials have offered several concessions to the striking officers, including protections against excessive overtime and revisions to solitary confinement policies. Officers who did not return to work by Saturday were told they would lose their health insurance and could be fired.

Mid-State is one of two state prisons in Oneida County facing increased scrutiny.

Dozens of Mid-State corrections officers brutally jumped on, kicked and sodomized inmates in 2016. A judge ruled late last year that the state owes monetary damages to the inmates. Many of the officers still work at the prison.

Across the street at Marcy Correctional Facility, several corrections officers beat inmate Robert L. Brooks to death late last year on an exam table in the prison infirmary. Ten employees were recently indicted in the case, with six facing a murder charge. At least six more employees could be charged.

Staff writer Jon Moss contributed reporting.
The federal government workforce has a significant presence in metropolitan areas across New York.

Those workers have been facing upheaval in the early months of President Donald Trumps second term as the president seeks to cut federal jobs.

There were more than 106,000 federal employees in New Yorks major metro areas as of December, the most recent month for which data is available from the state Labor Department. Thats about 1.2% of the total nonfarm payroll in those areas.

Nonfarm payroll includes both private employers and government agencies, but not the military.

In some areas, federal workers made up an even greater percentage of the total.

In the Syracuse metro area, federal workers accounted for more than 2.2% of total nonfarm jobs in December, according to the Labor Department. That was the highest percentage in the state that month.

Utica-Rome was second at about 2.1%.

Syracuse had 7,300 federal workers as of December and Utica-Rome had 2,600.

Syracuse had the fifth-highest total number of federal workers in New York in December and second-highest in Upstate New York. The biggest federal workforce in Upstate New York that month was in Buffalo at over 10,000.

Since 2014, the number of federal employees in Syracuse has grown more than 37%. You can see details in the chart below.

If you cant see the chart, click here to open it in a new window. The Syracuse metro area includes Madison, Onondaga and Oswego counties.

Nationwide, the federal job count has been rising about 1% each year since 2018 to a total of about 2.4 million people as of March 2024, according to the Pew Research Center.

While the number of federal workers has increased over time, their share of civilian employment has been generally steady, Pew said.

Excluding the U.S. Postal Service, federal workers make up about 1.5% of the civilian workforce in the U.S. Thats been largely constant for over a decade, except for a temporary bump in mid-2020, according to Pew.

Trumps moves to fire federal workers across the U.S. have been hitting employees in the Syracuse area.

Layoffs left IRS workers in Syracuse in tears. Trumps order requiring remote federal workers to return to an office in person upended life for the family of a cancer researcher in Central New York.

You can see details of the federal workforce in metro areas throughout New York in the table below. If you cant see the table, click here to open it in a new window.

Your feedback matters How have the cuts to the federal workforce impacted you?

Contact Kevin Tampone anytime: Email | Twitter | Facebook | 315-282-8598
While Upstate New York is known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures, it is also home to several award-winning museums perfect for the whole family.

USA Today recently announced the winners of several 10Best contests recognizing top museums across the country. Heres a look at the Upstate New York museums that made the list:

The Wild Center

No. 4, Best Science Museum

The Wild Walk offers a birds-eye view of Adirondack mountains and wildlife in Tupper Lake, N.Y. Katrina Tulloch

The Wild Center in Tupper Lake once again earned a spot on USA Todays list of 10 best science museums in America. After claiming the No. 1 ranking last year, it placed fourth in 2025.

The campus is situated on 115-acres in the Adirondack Mountains and is home to more than 900 live animals. Outdoors youll find trails, a private pond, and their main attraction: the sky-high Wild Walk.

The Museum at Bethel Woods

No. 5, Best Music Museum

The Museum at Bethel Woods in Bethel, N.Y. tells the story of Woodstock through artifacts like a hippie bus, films, music and more. Photo courtesy of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Photo courtesy of Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

For an experience that hits all the right notes, take in the Museum at Bethel Wood which has been dubbed the fifth-best music museum in the nation by USA Todays 10Best.

Dedicated to preserving the legacy of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair, the museum offers an immersive look at life in 1960s America, culminating in one of historys most iconic music festivals.

Visitors can explore the original concert site and catch live performances at the Hudson Valley venue throughout the summer.

The Strong National Museum of Play

No. 2, Best Pop Culture Museum

No. 3, Best Childrens Museum

Suellen Sues puts together a Potato Head with her granddaughter, Isla, 2, while visiting The Strong National Museum of Play, Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, in Rochester, N.Y. (AP Photo/Lauren Petracca) Lauren Petracca | The Associated Press

Rochesters Strong National Museum of Play is a must-visit for kids and the young at heart. The perennially award-winning museum placed on two lists this year: the nations second-best pop culture museum and third-best childrens museum.

The Western New York museum recently completed a 90,000 square-foot expansion called the Neighborhood of Play. It houses two exhibits dedicated to video games and technology in play. It is also home to the World Video Game Hall of Fame.

A visitor walks through the outdoor Hasbro Game Park at The Strong National Museum of Play, Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, in Rochester, N.Y. (AP Photo/Lauren Petracca) Lauren Petracca | The Associated Press

A new outdoor Hasbro Game Park was also opened as part of the renovations. Here you will find your favorite childhood board games brought to life on a grand scale.

The Strong is also home to the National Toy Hall of Fame which inducts new toys each year.
By Colin Kinniburgh | New York Focus

This story originally appeared in New York Focus, a nonprofit news publication investigating power in New York. Sign up for their newsletter here.

New York state is one step closer to banning fossil fuels in new buildings.

On Friday, the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council voted to recommend major updates to the states building code, which is updated every five years and sets minimum standards for construction statewide. The draft updates include rules requiring most new buildings to be all electric starting in 2026, as mandated by a law passed two years ago.

The vote came after the code council went missing in action for more than two months, leaving some advocates nervous that the state might be wavering on the gas ban. With the rules now entering the final stage of the approval process, New York remains on track to be the first state to enact such a ban.

The new draft code also tightens a slew of other standards in a bid to make buildings more energy efficient and save residents money over the long term. But it leaves out several key provisions recommended in the states climate plan  possibly running afoul of a 2022 law.

Specifically, the draft energy code leaves out requirements that new homes include on-site energy storage and be wired such that owners can easily add electric vehicle chargers (when the property includes parking space) and solar panels. The states 2022 climate plan listed these three provisions as key strategies to achieve New Yorks legally binding emissions targets. On-site energy storage also makes homes more resilient when disasters strike, the plan noted, providing backup power in the event of a blackout.

A separate 2022 law required the state to take those recommendations into account when updating its building code.

Updating the infrastructure for those things is a key part of what this transition is, said Michael Hernandez, New York policy director at the pro-electrification group Rewiring America.

The Department of State, which oversees New Yorks code development process, did not respond to a request for comment.

Buildings are New Yorks largest source of emissions, according to the states accounting, amounting to nearly one-third of all climate pollution. New Yorks buildings burn more fossil fuels for heat and hot water than any other states, according to the clean energy group RMI. That contributes not only to global warming but also to local air pollution, with deadly consequences: A 2021 study by Harvard researchers found that pollution from New Yorks buildings causes nearly 2,000 premature deaths a year.

Cutting that pollution will require major upgrades to the states aging housing stock  an enormous challenge. But climate hawks stress that the first and easiest step is to stop digging the hole deeper, by making new buildings as climate-friendly as possible. Making them all electric is a key part of that. But other, subtler changes can also play an important role.

The fossil fuel industry, for its part, is taking those changes seriously. Gas trade groups led a major fight to keep provisions such as the EV-ready requirement out of the national building code that provides a model for states including New York. After nearly five years of wrangling, the International Code Council  actually a national nonprofit  that oversees the process voted not to include the provisions as requirements, siding with the gas groups over the advice of its own experts.

Among the parties who stood up for the stricter energy code: a New York state code official, who joined advocates like Hernandez one year ago in urging the International Code Council to keep the requirements in. Yet the state is now following the national groups lead and relegating the solar, electric vehicle, and battery standards to the appendices of its draft code. That means they can still serve as templates for localities that want to adopt the tougher standards, but theyre not required.

Fossil fuel interests and some Republican lawmakers have argued that including such mandates would only drive up the cost of new homes at a time when housing is already deeply unaffordable. But climate advocates point out that its far cheaper to install electrical infrastructure up front than add it in later on  as much as six times cheaper in the case of an EV charger, for example.

Thats in keeping with many of the green rules that New York did include in its new draft code. Chris Corcoran, a code expert at the state energy authority NYSERDA, told the code council on Friday that adopting the full suite of proposed energy rules will add about $2 per square foot to the up-front cost of new homes, but save residents more than three times that over 30 years.

Its not entirely clear who in New York has pushed to leave the storage, solar, and EV provisions out. Only eight groups disclosed that they lobbied on the building and energy codes last year, and its not obvious that any of them had a specific interest in opposing those rules.

Officials speaking at Fridays meeting did not explain why they left out the requirements. One lawyer who helped draft the updated energy rules, Ben Kosinski, left the Department of State just this month to work as chief counsel for the Senate Republicans, for whom he also worked before joining the code office, according to his LinkedIn profile. The GOP caucus has voted almost unanimously against the laws driving the pro-electrification updates to the code. (Kosinski did not immediately reply to a request for comment.)

Although the council voted unanimously on Friday to advance the all-electric rules, not all members supported the move. William Tuyn, a builders representative from the Buffalo area, noted that the state adds roughly 40,000 homes a year  a tiny fraction of the roughly 7 million that already exist.

We dont even make a dent in the issue of climate change by focusing there, he said, in the final minutes of the meeting. The legislature did what they did. That ship has sailed [but] we really need to concentrate on renewables or improving the grid if were really going to be able to do something and were not just going to simply crash the economy of the state of New York.

Several lawmakers urged the council on Friday to include the full suite of climate provisions in the final rules.

These provisions are not trivial add-ons. They are the backbone of a truly effective energy code, said Neil Jimenez, legislative director for Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia. Their exclusion weakens the very foundation upon the policies weve fought so hard to put into place here in Albany.
By Kelsey Brown Times Union, Albany

Albany, N.Y.  As the U.S. prepares to impose increased tariffs on aluminum and steel imports this month, business owners and industry leaders across the state are navigating a market tinged by uncertainty as they prepare themselves  and their customers  for the hammer to fall.

Tariffs on aluminum and steel imports go into effect March 12, President Donald Trump said. Trump later said that the U.S. would impose tariffs on imports from three countries  Mexico, Canada and China  sooner than the rest, on March 4. Trump has said that the tariffs are intended to revamp industries and create jobs. But local stakeholders say theyre uncertain about the decisions side effects and concerned that the tariffs could have unintended consequences.

At Local 83 Smart, a sheet metal union in Saratoga County that provides skilled labor to projects as well as educational training, regional manager Robert Monahan said he understands the motive behind the tariffs but hopes it doesnt disrupt the economy.

All Americans are on board with bringing more jobs back into the country, Monahan said. We all see that as a positive. But do the ends justify the means? Its such a tough economic stance  is it worth it?

On Feb. 11, Trump, citing an effort to increase national security and invest in domestic manufacturing, announced that the U.S. would impose a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum imports, increasing the 10 percent tariff imposed during Trumps first term by 15 percent. Trump also announced that the scope of the tariffs would change to include imports from countries previously exempt  Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, the European Union, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

Industry experts have shared concerns that the tariffs could lead to potential job losses, higher prices for consumers, retailers and manufacturers, and retaliatory tariffs that could spark a broader trade war.

Scott Laing, a clinical assistant professor of finance at the University at Buffalo School of Management, said the tariffs are not sustainable and could result in a tit for tat policy from U.S. trading partners. The tariffs mark a political and cultural shift in how the U.S. views free trade and its relationships with its allies, Laing said.

We live in a very interconnected, globalized trade world, Laing said. For so many years  until Trump took office  the idea that free trade is good was the predominant thought. We wanted our allies to succeed. Now, were starting to push back.

The tariffs would be far-reaching, potentially impacting broad swaths of industry and consumer goods. They could impact the automotive industry, which in 2024 imported 3.6 million vehicles from Canada and Mexico; the beer and canned goods industries, which rely on aluminum cans; airplane manufacturers, which use steel and aluminum alloys; and even building development. Laing said that because the U.S. doesnt have a way of substituting aluminum production, even the price of soda could go up.

Businesses affected by price hikes will often pass those on to consumers, Laing said.

Additionally, tariff increases could lead to the loss of 100,000 American jobs  20,000 directly in the U.S. aluminum industry and 80,000 indirectly, according to William Oplinger, CEO of Alcoa, one of the largest aluminum makers in the country. Oplinger made his prediction at a BMO Global Metals and Mining conference this week, CNN reported.

Theres really a large downstream ripple effect once you start to impose the tariffs on the raw materials, Laing said.

While the impacts of the tariffs are still speculative, Monahan said anybody who has been in the industry for a while has already experienced the effects of similar policies. After the U.S. imposed a 10 percent tariff on imported steel and aluminum in 2018, the Geographical Surveys Annual Mineral Commodity Summary found that the price of steel products increased by about 10% during the second half of 2018.

There are now only three domestic production lines exist, making up about 1 percent of total steel production, according to the Can Manufacturers Institute.

The U.S., which imports 60 percent of its aluminum from Canada, doesnt have a manufacturing infrastructure for aluminum, Laing explained. Steel is a more dated material, Laing said, and is used predominately for large-scale infrastructure projects like constructing bridges and skyscrapers. The U.S. largely imports steel from other countries, like Japan. Though the U.S. has steel manufacturing capabilities, Laing said the infrastructure, which often uses blast furnaces, is outdated and inefficient.

It would require a significant investment to modernize steel infrastructure in the U.S., Laing said. He called the longstanding process of updating U.S. steel infrastructure a fools errand.

Theres a classic, historic house on the block, Laing said, as an analogy. No one wants to tear it down. You can technically still live in it, but it requires such an investment to modernize it and meet the new standards, that you wonder if its worth tearing down entirely.

Monahan said that if the price of steel increases, Local 83 Smart would feel that cost immediately.

For preexisting contracts, Monahan said contractors will have to revisit and ask the end user for more money. Potential projects with entities running on tight margins, like a school district, may have to table projects they previously thought they could afford. Those debating on going forward with a project may put it off a year or two to feel out the market.

If a contractor bid an aluminum metal project and the original cost was $100,000, Monahan said. It could be $150,000 to $200,000, depending on the outcome of the tariffs. That could potentially put jobs on hold if the end user cant afford that extra incurred cost.

A.J. Lomnes, executive vice president of Bast Hatfield Construction, said that subcontractors working with structural steel or aluminum windows have been unable to guarantee quotes in their bids to the company, due to concerns about tariffs.

This is more problematic, Lomnes said, for public bids where the construction company has qualified bids and has to honor its prices, despite fluctuations in the market that surge the price of materials.

We may have to actually forecast an increase just to protect ourselves, which may or may not come to fruition, Lomnes said. Its definitely a difficult situation to navigate.

Though Lomnes said Bast Hatfield could try to protect its prices by procuring materials in advance, he said sometimes, thats just not possible. The majority of projects require long lead times or materials that take months or years to receive from order to delivery, Lomnes said.

For privately funded projects, the uncertainty is a condition that is passed on to customers. Lomnes said the company doesnt give a set price and informs customers the cost of a project is subject to change based on tariffs.

It puts the customer in an awkward situation, not knowing what the final cost might be, Lomnes said.

For the most part, customers have historically been understanding of the fluctuations. Lomnes said following the large escalation of prices that occurred after the coronavirus pandemic, there is more understanding of the unpredictability of the marketplace.

None of us have the crystal ball to forecast some of these prices, particularly on volatile materials  like steel, aluminum, copper, Lomnes said.

Sam Mushaw, president of Dimension Fabricators, a rebar manufacturer based in Schenectady, said that tariffs can reduce competition and give domestic mills the opportunity to raise their prices. The night that Trump announced his plans for tariffs, domestic mills did just that, Mushaw said.

Dimension Fabricators contracts with the federal government and does not buy any imported materials. But Mushaw said regardless of whether a company buys imported or domestic metal, prices are rising.

In the past few weeks, Mushaw said he noticed that domestic mill prices have gone up twice. Mushaw said Dimension Fabricators naturally adjusts its bids to the mills' rates; so when the mills' prices rose, the companys prices rose 5 percent as well.

Right now, its only been marginally increasing, Mushaw said. But theres been times when the increase has been so staggering, jobs were put on hold.

Monahan said his business is at the mercy of executive orders, comparing the uncertainty to federal workers waking up and being furloughed. If the cost of materials ticks up enough, projects could be postponed and jobs lost.

Its very black and white, Monahan said. Theres not a lot of color to this issue. If (tariffs) are imposed, were all just along for the ride.

 2025 the Times Union (Albany, N.Y.) . Visit www.timesunion.com.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, March 3. The attendance of Kazakh President Tokayev in the International Forum on Peace and Trust, scheduled for December 12, 2025, in Ashgabat, has been confirmed, Trend reports, citing the official letter from the President.

"The initiative to hold this prestigious forum emphasizes your country's special role in strengthening an atmosphere of mutual trust and understanding, reflecting Ashgabat's consistent commitment to the principles of peaceful coexistence while contributing to the formation of sustainable global security mechanisms," Tokayev wrote.

Kazakhstan consistently supports Turkmenistan's peacekeeping efforts and shares the commitment to open and constructive dialogue for the sake of global peace and well-being, he added.

President Tokayev also stated that the forthcoming forum will serve as a critical platform for the exchange of perspectives and the formulation of practical solutions to contemporary international concerns.

Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan have strong relations, with both countries cooperating on various political, economic, and cultural fronts. In terms of trade, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistans turnover reached $167.8 million from January through April 2024, showing a 27.2-percent increase from the previous year. This highlights the growing economic partnership between the two nations.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Supporters including Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, center, listen as former President Donald Trump speaks outside the courtroom at Manhattan Criminal Court, Tuesday, May 21, 2024, in New York. (Mark Peterson/Pool Photo via AP) AP

A Republican official in Texas has beef with liberal New York, calling for a popular food item to be renamed.

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced over the weekend that the Texas Senate will file a concurrent resolution to officially change the name of the New York Strip steak to the Texas Strip. He said he got the idea after meeting with cattle feeders and raisers in the Lone Star State when some of them said their favorite cut of meat is New York Strip.

I asked why we didnt call it a Texas Strip because New York has mostly dairy cows. Just because a New York restaurant named Texas beef a New York Strip in the 19th century doesnt mean we need to keep doing that, Patrick wrote on X.

According to the New York Post, the strip steak got its name from Delmonicos restaurant, which started in Manhattan during the 19th century and labeled the beef cut as New York strip. The name soon become commonplace.

The lieutenant governor asked Texas restaurants and grocery stores to change the name to Texas Strip when they next reprint menus to help promote local beef.

Abbott said Texas has 12.2 million cattle, the most in the U.S. The cattle industry is the states largest agricultural commodity with an approximate market value of $15.5 billion, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture.

By comparison, New York state has roughly 1.4 million cattle, including 100,000 beef cows, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Empire State has more than 600,000 dairy cows as of 2024.

Liberal New York shouldnt get the credit for our hard-working ranchers. We promote the Texas brand on everything made or grown in Texas because it benefits our economy and jobs, Patrick tweeted. After session ends this summer, I might take a short cruise across the Gulf of America and have a juicy medium-rare Texas Strip.

The latter was a reference to President Donald Trumps order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. Patrick, serving under Texas Gov. Greg Abbott since 2015, was among the GOP lawmakers who visited New York last year to support Trump during his criminal trial.
New York NAACP President Hazel Dukes speaks during the New York State Democratic Convention in New York, Feb. 17, 2022. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File) AP

Hazel Dukes, the president of the New York State chapter of the NAACP and lifelong civil rights advocate, died Saturday at the age of 92.

Dukes peacefully passed away in her New York City home surrounded by family, her son, Ronald Dukes, said in a statement.

Dukes, who led the New York State NAACP for nearly five decades, fought tirelessly for voting rights, economic development, fair housing and education through her career. Even in her 90s, she spoke out against police brutality and for adequate health care in underserved neighborhoods, the NAACPs New York State chapter said in a statement.

In 2023, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton presented Dukes with the NAACPs highest honor  the Spingarn Medal.

Im not tired yet, Dukes said in her acceptance speech for the award. She added that she would continue her advocacy and empower the next generation of NAACP leaders.

Dukes helped lay the foundation for Black women to ascend to the nations highest offices. In 1972, she took the stage at the Democratic National Convention to second the presidential candidacy of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman to run for the partys nomination.

Dukes was instrumental in former President Joe Bidens decision to choose a Black woman as his 2020 running mate, she noted in an interview with CBS last year. Her career-long fight was bookended by former Vice President Kamala Harris 2024 bid for the presidency.

In a post in X Saturday, Harris called Dukes one of the heroes upon whose broad shoulders we stand.

Im just proud of Kamala. Im just excited if I can live to see this happen. It would be the joy of my life, Dukes said in the CBS interview.

Dukes was the president of her own consulting firm. She also served as the member of the NAACP National Board of Directors. Leaders of the NAACP said in a statement Saturday that Dukes was a living embodiment of the NAACP and that her legacy has touched every aspect of the movement.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams ordered flags to be lowered at half-staff as a tribute to Dukes.
The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, March 3. The World Bank (WB) is expected to allocate $1.5 billion for the main construction work on the Kambarata-1 hydropower plant in Kyrgyzstan for the three countries participating in the project (Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan), Trend reports.

This was announced during a meeting of energy companies and institutions in Kyrgyzstan, where they reviewed the country's results over energy deliverables for 2024.

The WB authorized an extra $13.6 million for the ongoing Technical Assistance for the Kambarata-1 Hydropower Plant project last year, as was previously reported.

This is on top of the $5 million previously allocated to support the plant's construction. The funding is aimed at updating the technical studies done in 2014 to confirm the project's feasibility and economic viability.

The WB's $13.6 million is provided on favorable terms through the International Development Association (IDA). Of this, $11 million is a zero-interest loan with a 50-year term, including a 10-year grace period, while the remaining $2.6 million is a grant from the Central Asia Water and Energy Program (CAWEP).

Taalaibek Ibraev, Kyrgyzstan's Minister of Energy, had previously said that the Kambarata-1 hydropower station, which is situated on the Naryn river in the Toktogul area, should be finished in 6.5 years. With a 1,860 MW capacity, the plant is expected to produce 5.6 billion kWh of power per year.

On this account, a joint venture between Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan will oversee the project. A meeting is scheduled for May in Turkiye to discuss funding details and determine which international donors will participate.

Minister Ibraev also mentioned that 4 billion soms (about $45.7 million) have already been allocated from the state budget for preparatory work, including the construction of tunnels, roads, and bridges. Additionally, a dormitory is being built for the workers involved in the project.

The overall cost of the Kambarata-1 HPP is predicted to be $3.5 billion, with building set to commence by the end of the year assuming finance is secured.
sarav100 BHPian



Join Date: Aug 2020 Location: Toronto Posts: 200 Thanked: 497 Times

Re: Horrifying Taxi ride in Goa - Palolem to Mopa Quote: Buckbeak Originally Posted by I haven't been to Goa recently, but I have seen this during my recent trip to Kashmir. And it was to the extent that I started to weigh whether the natural beauty is worth the ruthless exploitation we have to face to experience said beauty. From Taxis charging 3000 Rs for around 30 kms, ATVs charging 1500 per person for literally 2 kms to horsemen ganging up and demanding more than the agreed upon sum after the ride. Felt everything between disgusted and outright frightened. Who on God's Earth gave these maniacs (taxi and ATV unions) the right to prohibit others from using GOVERNMENT roads?! I understand tourism is their livelihood, but this level of exploitation?



In the end, we learnt to just not care, as it really dampers the mood.



We visited Kashmir in November 2020, at the time when Kashmir was just getting out of its long lasting lockdown: first due to article 360 in 2019 and then covid19 in 2020. This was the time when tourists were nowhere to be seen. Only 2G internet running at snails pace was permitted and phone lines were mostly unreliable hence, booking a hotel or resort in advance was a difficult task.



While the rest of Kashmir, especially Pahalgam and Srinagar was quite welcoming and locals were relieved to finally see some tourists ,i.e., us and showcased friendly hospitality everywhere we went, the same cannot be said about Gulmarg.



Locals in Gulmarg had cold and brutal behavior and tried to force us into hostile situations as threatened us multiple times at multiple locations within the valley if we didnt comply with them.



First of all, at Gulmarg area entry checkpoint, where we paid Gulmarg tourism development fee, the municipality staff colluded with tourist guides and demanded that they would let us go any further only if we hired their tourist guide, who was eager to get into our car and tried to open it despite it being locked. It was a real hassle and we agreed to hire one of them, in the expectation that it would be smooth sailing from there on.



This tourist guide that was forced upon us by Gulmarg tourism development authority made no effort to explain any details of the valley and soon enough started selling us horse rides which were ridiculously overpriced. Within 10 minutes, we reached the market area and out guide again tried to sell us the pony rides at a slightly less ridiculously priced rate which we declined again and he exited our vehicle saying something in his local dialect and without adding any value to our trip.



Since were were the only tourists there, locals ganged up on us and started demanding us fee for various things, if we have to go to gondola ride or any resort or any tourism points in the valley, we have to either hire their taxi or their ponies. Their union leaders blocked the government build public road further into valley and told us it is the collective decision of their union and hence, is a strict rule that no outside vehicle, personal or public be permitted into the valley and only the taxi authorized by their local union can use the public roads of Gulmarg.



I came back to car which was parked in public parking area in the market to discuss further amongst ourselves what to do next. The alleged locals followed me to car and disallowed any privacy while discussing amongst ourselves. Soon enough, one of them lost his patience and threatened us straight away and asked us to either hire his pony there and then itself or just get the hell out of there in an aggressive manner.



After his threat, we had realization that it is pointless in proceeding any further in Gulmarg and the way locals are getting impatient within minutes, it might not take them long enough to start acting on their verbal aggression. Hence, in interest of safety and security, we headed back to Srinagar where we came from and proceeded towards Sonmarg, calling it a day in Sonmarg. Let me add one more incident from my end that happened to us.We visited Kashmir in November 2020, at the time when Kashmir was just getting out of its long lasting lockdown: first due to article 360 in 2019 and then covid19 in 2020. This was the time when tourists were nowhere to be seen. Only 2G internet running at snails pace was permitted and phone lines were mostly unreliable hence, booking a hotel or resort in advance was a difficult task.While the rest of Kashmir, especially Pahalgam and Srinagar was quite welcoming and locals were relieved to finally see some tourists ,i.e., us and showcased friendly hospitality everywhere we went, the same cannot be said about Gulmarg.Locals in Gulmarg had cold and brutal behavior and tried to force us into hostile situations as threatened us multiple times at multiple locations within the valley if we didnt comply with them.First of all, at Gulmarg area entry checkpoint, where we paid Gulmarg tourism development fee, the municipality staff colluded with tourist guides and demanded that they would let us go any further only if we hired their tourist guide, who was eager to get into our car and tried to open it despite it being locked. It was a real hassle and we agreed to hire one of them, in the expectation that it would be smooth sailing from there on.This tourist guide that was forced upon us by Gulmarg tourism development authority made no effort to explain any details of the valley and soon enough started selling us horse rides which were ridiculously overpriced. Within 10 minutes, we reached the market area and out guide again tried to sell us the pony rides at a slightly less ridiculously priced rate which we declined again and he exited our vehicle saying something in his local dialect and without adding any value to our trip.Since were were the only tourists there, locals ganged up on us and started demanding us fee for various things, if we have to go to gondola ride or any resort or any tourism points in the valley, we have to either hire their taxi or their ponies. Their union leaders blocked the government build public road further into valley and told us it is the collective decision of their union and hence, is a strict rule that no outside vehicle, personal or public be permitted into the valley and only the taxi authorized by their local union can use the public roads of Gulmarg.I came back to car which was parked in public parking area in the market to discuss further amongst ourselves what to do next. The alleged locals followed me to car and disallowed any privacy while discussing amongst ourselves. Soon enough, one of them lost his patience and threatened us straight away and asked us to either hire his pony there and then itself or just get the hell out of there in an aggressive manner.After his threat, we had realization that it is pointless in proceeding any further in Gulmarg and the way locals are getting impatient within minutes, it might not take them long enough to start acting on their verbal aggression. Hence, in interest of safety and security, we headed back to Srinagar where we came from and proceeded towards Sonmarg, calling it a day in Sonmarg.
CrazyToDrive BHPian



Join Date: Nov 2016 Location: Pune / Mumbai Posts: 97 Thanked: 341 Times

Re: Fun drives in my Alcazar Drive to Diveagar beach



After my daughters 9th final exams, we wanted to go on a short vacation for a couple of days before her 10th-grade curriculum started. She wanted to visit a beach, so we shortlisted Dapoli, Alibaug, and Diveagar. We finalized Diveagar, considering that the beaches there are less crowded, especially during the off-season.

The plan was to travel from Pune on February 21st and return on February 23rd. We booked our stay at Anurag Family Cottage through MMT.

We started from Baner, Pune, on February 21st at 10:30 AM. After refueling at the Shell petrol pump in Sus, we took the Paud-Mulshi-Tamhini Ghat route. The roads were excellent.



Somewhere in Tamhini Ghat







Enroute Diveagar - Excellent cement road







From Mangaon, we turned towards Diveagar, where the entire route was made of concrete. Though well-marked, it had a lot of rumblers. Our second stop was at 1:30 PM in a small village along the way, where we enjoyed our home-packed lunch under the shade of a tree. After another hour of travel, we reached our resort, where we would be staying for the next three days.

Upon arrival at Anurag Family Cottage, we checked in, settled into our room, and freshened up.

The resort had plenty of coconut, banana, and betel palm trees, along with the soothing sounds of birds chirping. It was a truly relaxing and scenic experience. We walked through the trees, exploring the area.



The property













At 4:30 PM, we headed to Diveagar Beach. As expected, it wasnt too crowded. The beach was beautiful, and we had a great time playing in the seawater. We also took a horse cart ride, which was a fun experience as the horses ran through the water. After that, my daughters enjoyed a beach bike ride together. Local women were selling Ukdiche Modak, and we tried themthey were absolutely delicious.







After spending quality family time at the beach, we returned to our cottage. Later, I took a short walk with my daughter to explore the surroundings. For dinner, we decided to eat at the resort and ordered prawns and chicken thali with Solkadhi. The food was tasty and quite spicy. After a fulfilling meal, we retired for the day.

The next morning, I woke up early and went for a walk. It was refreshing to be surrounded by nature and the sound of birds chirpingsomething rare in cities. After returning to the resort, we had breakfast, which included Ghavan with chutney. Then, we got ready and headed to the beach.

We spent about two hours at the beach, having a great time, before returning to the resort to freshen up. Later, we visited the famous Suvarna Ganesh Mandir and Roopnarayan Mandir.

In the afternoon, we had lunch at Rane Khanaval, a well-known eatery in Diveagar. We ordered Surmai, Pomfret, and Prawns Thali with Solkadhi. The food was delicious.



The food







In the evening, we decided to visit Aaravi Beach. It was a beautiful, clean beach with rocks on one side and white sand on the other. We enjoyed the scenic beauty and took plenty of photos. The drive along the beachside road was stunning.



























After spending a lovely evening there, we returned to the resort for dinner. Since Diveagar is known for its seafood, we once again ordered Surmai and Prawns Thali. After a sumptuous meal, we retired for the night.

On February 23rd, it was time to head back home. Our plan included a visit to Harihareshwar Temple before returning to Pune. The drive from Diveagar to Harihareshwar took about an hour. Since it was a Sunday, the temple was crowded, and parking was a challenge. After spending nearly 45 minutes in the queue, we completed our darshan and left the temple around 2:00 PM.

We decided to have lunch on our way out of town and stopped at a simple yet excellent restaurant, Sai Palace. The food was delicious.

Our return journey to Pune started smoothly, but Mangaon Junction was jam-packed with no traffic police managing the situation. It took us nearly 30 minutes to cross the junction. After that, the drive was uneventful, with multiple short stops along the way.

We finally reached home at 8:00 PM, carrying with us lots of fun memories from the trip.



Some pics from the return journey and other random pics



Tamhini Ghat







Drone shot Tamhini Ghat







Some random pics at beach











Thanks for reading. After my daughters 9th final exams, we wanted to go on a short vacation for a couple of days before her 10th-grade curriculum started. She wanted to visit a beach, so we shortlisted Dapoli, Alibaug, and Diveagar. We finalized Diveagar, considering that the beaches there are less crowded, especially during the off-season.The plan was to travel from Pune on February 21st and return on February 23rd. We booked our stay at Anurag Family Cottage through MMT.We started from Baner, Pune, on February 21st at 10:30 AM. After refueling at the Shell petrol pump in Sus, we took the Paud-Mulshi-Tamhini Ghat route. The roads were excellent.Enroute Diveagar - Excellent cement roadFrom Mangaon, we turned towards Diveagar, where the entire route was made of concrete. Though well-marked, it had a lot of rumblers. Our second stop was at 1:30 PM in a small village along the way, where we enjoyed our home-packed lunch under the shade of a tree. After another hour of travel, we reached our resort, where we would be staying for the next three days.Upon arrival at Anurag Family Cottage, we checked in, settled into our room, and freshened up.The resort had plenty of coconut, banana, and betel palm trees, along with the soothing sounds of birds chirping. It was a truly relaxing and scenic experience. We walked through the trees, exploring the area.At 4:30 PM, we headed to Diveagar Beach. As expected, it wasnt too crowded. The beach was beautiful, and we had a great time playing in the seawater. We also took a horse cart ride, which was a fun experience as the horses ran through the water. After that, my daughters enjoyed a beach bike ride together. Local women were selling Ukdiche Modak, and we tried themthey were absolutely delicious.After spending quality family time at the beach, we returned to our cottage. Later, I took a short walk with my daughter to explore the surroundings. For dinner, we decided to eat at the resort and ordered prawns and chicken thali with Solkadhi. The food was tasty and quite spicy. After a fulfilling meal, we retired for the day.The next morning, I woke up early and went for a walk. It was refreshing to be surrounded by nature and the sound of birds chirpingsomething rare in cities. After returning to the resort, we had breakfast, which included Ghavan with chutney. Then, we got ready and headed to the beach.We spent about two hours at the beach, having a great time, before returning to the resort to freshen up. Later, we visited the famous Suvarna Ganesh Mandir and Roopnarayan Mandir.In the afternoon, we had lunch at Rane Khanaval, a well-known eatery in Diveagar. We ordered Surmai, Pomfret, and Prawns Thali with Solkadhi. The food was delicious.The foodIn the evening, we decided to visit Aaravi Beach. It was a beautiful, clean beach with rocks on one side and white sand on the other. We enjoyed the scenic beauty and took plenty of photos. The drive along the beachside road was stunning.After spending a lovely evening there, we returned to the resort for dinner. Since Diveagar is known for its seafood, we once again ordered Surmai and Prawns Thali. After a sumptuous meal, we retired for the night.On February 23rd, it was time to head back home. Our plan included a visit to Harihareshwar Temple before returning to Pune. The drive from Diveagar to Harihareshwar took about an hour. Since it was a Sunday, the temple was crowded, and parking was a challenge. After spending nearly 45 minutes in the queue, we completed our darshan and left the temple around 2:00 PM.We decided to have lunch on our way out of town and stopped at a simple yet excellent restaurant, Sai Palace. The food was delicious.Our return journey to Pune started smoothly, but Mangaon Junction was jam-packed with no traffic police managing the situation. It took us nearly 30 minutes to cross the junction. After that, the drive was uneventful, with multiple short stops along the way.We finally reached home at 8:00 PM, carrying with us lots of fun memories from the trip.Some pics from the return journey and other random picsTamhini GhatDrone shot Tamhini GhatSome random pics at beachThanks for reading. Attached Thumbnails











Last edited by CrazyToDrive : 2nd March 2025 at 20:11 . Reason: updated
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The UKs Clean Power 2030 Action Plan is projected to dramatically reduce the nations reliance on gas imports for power generation, according to a new analysis by energy think-tank Ember.

The plan, focused on expanding low-carbon energy sources, is expected to cut gas imports by 57%, bolstering energy security and shielding consumers from volatile global gas prices.

Embers analysis highlights that achieving the plans targets will not only decarbonize the power sector, but also create a more stable and self-sufficient energy system. Reducing gas reliance will be a major win for UK energy security, says Embers UK analyst Frankie Mayo.

However, the report suggests that even greater savings could be achieved by extending import reduction policies beyond the power sector to include heating and transport, which constitute a significant portion of household energy expenditure.

The study underscores that reducing gas demand is the key to stabilizing consumer energy bills. The wholesale price of gas power is subject to extreme volatility due to global market conditions. In 2024, gas-powered electricity generation was on average 88% more expensive than before the energy price crisis triggered by the Ukraine war. As UK domestic gas production declines, replacing gas with low-cost wind and solar energy can insulate households and businesses from these price fluctuations Ember claims.

Furthermore, Ember warns that reliance on imported fossil fuels for heating is increasing, creating new cost risks. A gas boiler installed in 2025 will depend on imports for 78% of its fuel use, compared to 49% for a boiler installed in 2009. Conversely, electricity supply is projected to become increasingly homegrown. By 2030, heat pumps will require 83% less imported energy than gas boilers, while offering greater efficiency and potentially lower running costs.

The UK should keep a laser focus on achieving the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan to shield itself from volatile global markets for fossil fuels, Mayo concludes. Scaling up renewables and transitioning to technologies powered by homegrown energy sources will minimize the risk of future gas price crises, Mayo claims.

https://ember-energy.org/latest-insights/clean-power-2030-builds-stability-by-cutting-import-reliance

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A hot potato: Sergey Brin, the billionaire who co-founded Google alongside Larry Page in 1998, isn't the biggest believer in the idea of a work-life balance. He says that in order for Google to come out on top in the ultra-competitive AI industry, employees should work no fewer than 60 hours per week, which Brin calls the "sweet spot of productivity."

Brin called for Googlers working on the company's AI products to increase their hours in a memo seen by The New York Times.

Sixty hours per week works out at 12 hours per day in the traditional Monday to Friday work week.

Not surprisingly, Brin isn't a fan of working from home. Google is one of many companies that require workers to be in the office at least three days per week. However, Brin recommends being in the office "at least every weekday"  so at least he's okay with working from home on weekends.

"A number of folks work less than 60 hours and a small number put in the bare minimum to get by," Brin wrote. "This last group is not only unproductive but also can be highly demoralizing to everyone else."

Sergey Brin is back at Google and asking everyone to work harder.



He notes some people do the bare minimum to get by. Why on earth hasn't Sleepy Sundar fired them yet? pic.twitter.com/l5tvTgPcRt  Marcelo P. Lima (@MarceloPLima) February 28, 2025

Brin did say that working more than 60 hours per week isn't advisable as it can lead to exhaustion (and possibly other health issues), though it's easy to imagine most people arguing that 60 hours per week would cause the same problem.

Brin is cracking the whip in a push for Google to win the race in developing artificial general intelligence (AGI), which can understand and think like a real person while exceeding human cognitive capabilities.

"Competition has accelerated immensely, and the final race to AGI is afoot," Brin wrote in the memo. "I think we have all the ingredients to win this race, but we are going to have to turbocharge our efforts."

Brin believes the key to Google developing AGI first  in addition to 60-hour-weeks and not working from home  is for programmers to increase their efficiency by using the company's own Gemini AI tools.

As a retired Amazon VP who experienced a 9082% increase in Amazon stock during my time, I am out of touch with many common life struggles. The SVPs and CEOs above me are often more so. Talking about wealth and it's impacts is a taboo subject most executives avoid. I'm going to...  Ethan Evans (@EthanEvansVP) March 1, 2025

Brin stepped down as Alphabet president in 2019, though he returned to take a role in Google's AI developments in 2023. It's unlikely that his memo is going to lead to CEO Sundar Pichai changing the work-from-home policy or increasing AI employees' minimum number of hours, but Brin still has influence at the company he co-founded.

Brin isn't the only person in tech who thinks 40 to 50 hours in the office each week isn't enough. Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has called for 70-hour work weeks and said he does not "believe in work-life balance."

Masthead: Thomas Hawk
Forward-looking: In a move that could usher in major competition for ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft, Tesla is reportedly planning to launch its own ride-sharing service in California. However, unlike the established companies, Tesla apparently intends to own and operate the entire fleet.

While Tesla has grand plans to launch autonomous cab services across the US at some stage, it is set to use human-driven vehicles for its upcoming venture, at least initially. Documents submitted by Tesla to California officials reportedly mention drivers' license information and drug-testing coordination, suggesting that the company will have to wait a little longer before its unsupervised FSD software is ready for robotaxi duties.

According to Bloomberg, the EV giant applied for a "transportation charter-party carrier permit" from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) last year. If granted, the permit would allow the company to operate a fleet of electric cars with paying passengers across the Golden State.

In a statement to Reuters, the Commission confirmed that Tesla applied for the permit last November. A spokesperson from the agency explained that the transportation charter-party carrier permit is a "prerequisite" for permission to operate an autonomous ride-sharing service, but added that the current application would not allow the company to offer a commercial robotaxi service "in any capacity."

Elon Musk recently announced plans for Tesla to launch driverless ride-sharing in Austin in June and in California by the end of the year, though he did not offer any details.

Musk also told investors in January that he was confident the unsupervised full self-driving software will be released in California by the end of the year, claiming that the new mode will offer safety levels that are "significantly above" the average human driver.

Tesla isn't the only company planning to start a robotaxi service in the US this year. According to The Wall Street Journal, both Uber and Lyft are looking to add driverless cars to their apps in 2025. While the former wants to start off its self-driving adventure with autonomous cars from Waymo in Austin and Atlanta, the latter is reportedly planning to offer May Mobility's driverless taxis in Atlanta.

Uber and Lyft are said to be scouring locations to store the cars. They are ensuring that there are enough high-speed charging stations and equipping the cars with high-speed internet as part of their preparations for the commercial launches. Both companies are also training workers to maintain the cameras, lidar, and other gadgets essential to self-driving vehicles.
A hot potato: Even before the invasion of Ukraine, the US had long considered Russia its main cybersecurity threat. But it appears that the designation no longer applies. The move comes as Trump attempts to normalize the relationship with Russia and President Putin, and follows a heated exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House.

According to a US official familiar with the matter (via The Record), new Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered US Cyber Command to "stand down from all planning against Russia, including offensive digital actions."

The official said that Hegseth gave the order to the head of the command, Air Force Gen. Tim Haugh, in late February. The order does not apply to the National Security Agency, which Haugh also leads.

This is the second incident suggesting the US no longer considers Russia a cybersecurity threat. Last week, Liesyl Franz, deputy assistant secretary for international cybersecurity at the state department, said in a speech that the US was concerned about cyberthreats from some states, naming only China and Iran, not Russia.

The Guardian writes that a recent memo at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (Cisa) set out new priorities for the agency. While China was mentioned as a digital threat, there was no mention of Russia in the memo.

A source familiar with the matter told the publication that analysts at the agency were verbally informed not to follow or report on Russian threats, despite previously being a focus for the agency.

"Russia and China are our biggest adversaries. With all the cuts being made to different agencies, a lot of cybersecurity personnel have been fired. Our systems are not going to be protected and our adversaries know this," the person said.

"People are saying Russia is winning. Putin is on the inside now," they added.

A person who previously worked on US joint task forces tracking and combating Russian cyberthreats said Russia poses as possibly the most significant nation state threat actor. "Not to diminish the significance of China, Iran or North Korea, but Russia is at least on par with China as the most significant cyber threat," they said.

DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that Cisa remains committed to addressing all cyber threats to US critical infrastructure, including from Russia. "There has been no change in our posture or priority on this front," McLaughlin said.

There have been numerous instances of Russian-backed hackers attacking US infrastructure over the last few years. Last April, one such group targeted the water system of Muleshoe, north Texas. Experts believe this was a test to see just how vulnerable these types of targets are and how they respond following an attack.

In 2021, Microsoft warned that more than half of all nation-state cyberattacks came from Russia, and that Russian hackers succeed in one out of every three attacks.
Serving tech enthusiasts for over 25 years.TechSpot means tech analysis and advice you can trust

In a nutshell: Texas is solidifying its position as a major tech hub, with Apple's recent announcement of a new 250,000-square-foot AI server production facility in Houston serving as the latest testament to the state's growing tech industry. This development is part of a broader trend of technology investments reshaping the Lone Star State's economy, often fueled by California-based companies seeking lower taxes and a more business-friendly regulatory environment.

The influx of tech giants into Texas is reshaping the state's economic landscape. Apple already maintains its second-largest employee base outside Cupertino in Austin, while Samsung continues expanding its semiconductor operations in the state. Meta has relocated its trust and safety teams to Texas and other US locations, and companies like Realtor.com, Tesla, and Hewlett Packard have moved their headquarters there.

John Diamond, an economist at Rice University in Houston, explains the appeal: "In the end, it's all about the cost of doing business, and the cost of doing business is just lower in Texas," he told the Wall Street Journal.

The tech sector's growth in Texas has been remarkable. In the decade leading up to early 2024, high-tech jobs in the state grew at an average annual rate of 4.7 percent, outpacing overall job growth of 2.1 percent, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. This influx of tech talent is transforming urban centers like Austin.

Joseph Brusuelas, chief economist at consulting firm RSM, notes that dining in downtown Austin "is like being in Silicon Valley circa 2005" due to the concentration of young, educated tech workers.

The tech boom isn't limited to large corporations. Startups like Graze Robotics are also finding Texas an attractive destination.

Graze CEO Logan Fahey Franz cites several incentives for moving to Plano, including relocation support, tax rebates, and the city's openness to product testing in public spaces.

"Compared with California tech hot spots, 'it's gotten to the point where you can recruit, retain, and your cost is, I think we like to say, about 30 percent cheaper,' because of lower costs for labor and regulations," Franz said.

The state is also introducing new tools and services to attract businesses, including a specialized business court for complex commercial litigation  directly challenging Delaware's long-standing dominance in this area.

Despite the overall positive trend, Texas faces some challenges. While tech job growth remains above the national average, its pace has recently slowed. Additionally, manufacturing activity declined in February, with some computer and electronics manufacturers expressing concerns about potential tariffs affecting customer demand.

The state's restrictive abortion laws have also raised concerns among some companies considering relocation. However, David Yim, chief investment officer at USAA in San Antonio, suggests that business pragmatism often outweighs political considerations. "Politics certainly matters, and policy certainly matters. Pragmatism really for business and public companies is probably a bigger factor."
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is now reportedly asking its employees to find "tens of millions" of dollars to supposedly fund a new deal that it is preparing for Starlink as part of its upcoming overhaul.

However, this comes with a massive change for the federal agency, as they are also allegedly on the verge of canceling a deal they currently have with Verizon.

Over the past weeks, various reports have claimed that the FAA is planning to change its operations, particularly its network service provider and air management system. It seems that Elon Musk's space-based internet as the answer.

FAA Is Looking for 'Tens of Millions' of Dollars for Starlink Deal

The Rolling Stone reported (via Engadget) that the FAA is now scrambling for money as it has tasked its employees to find "tens of millions of dollars" worth of funds so that it can engage in a deal with Starlink for its planned overhaul.

The plan is to overhaul the United States' airspace management system, which SpaceX is already a part of, particularly in helping the FAA avoid any more air-related mishaps in the future.

However, the FAA is reportedly also considering making use of SpaceX's subsidiary, Starlink, to upgrade its network systems by using its satellite internet infrastructure, which has been a growing service worldwide.

Verizon FAA Deal May Be Canceled For Starlink

However, there is another major change that may take place over at FAA with this alleged Starlink deal as it will reportedly need to cancel its existing contract with Verizon to move forward with the upgrade.

Verizon is currently in a deal with the FAA that provides them with the network connections for its airspace management operations, but reports have claimed that the agency wants this to change.

That being said, the FAA has not yet confirmed any deal with Starlink as of writing.

FAA and SpaceX's Partnership

Over the past weeks, there have been reports about a partnership between the FAA and SpaceX as the federal agency is looking for a third-party entity that will help them fix the issues in their air management systems.

This was after a recent air disaster over at Washington's Reagan National Airport where an American Airlines flight and an Army helicopter collided mid-air.

It was then revealed that the FAA has been planning to make a switch to Starlink's satellite internet since the Biden administration, noting its reliable and fast internet.

However, the deal with Starlink means that the FAA will have to terminate its existing deal with Verizon, and according to reports, this is the route that the agency plans to take to improve its systems.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, March 3. As part of project cooperation in the fields of green energy and the coal industry, Kyrgyzstan is working with 22 partners from China, Trend reports.

This was announced during a meeting between the Minister of Energy, Taalaibek Ibraev, and the Ambassador of China to Kyrgyzstan, Liu Jiangping.

The parties noted the high potential of these projects for further development of cooperation in energy and infrastructure, emphasizing their importance for the long-term economic interests of both countries.

Ibraev highlighted that these initiatives open new prospects for joint work. In turn, Liu expressed readiness to deepen the partnership and emphasized that she would oversee the activities of Chinese companies in Kyrgyzstan, while also facilitating the accelerated implementation of signed agreements and investment projects.

Following the meeting, the sides noted that the past year was a period of active interaction, laying a solid foundation for further comprehensive development of bilateral relations.
CORRECTED: Japan deploys nearly 1,700 firefighters to tackle forest blaze



Tokyo, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Nearly 1,700 firefighters are battling Japan's biggest forest fire in three decades, officials said Monday, as some 4,600 residents remain under an evacuation advisory.

One person died last week in the blaze in the northern region of Iwate, which follows record low rainfall in the area and last year's hottest summer on record across Japan.

The fire near the city of Ofunato has burned through some 2,100 hectares (5,200 acres) since Thursday, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency said Monday.

Firefighters from 14 Japanese regions, including units from Tokyo, were now tackling the blaze, with 16 helicopters -- including from the military -- trying to douse the flames.

It is estimated to have damaged 84 buildings by Sunday, although details were still being assessed, the agency said.

Around 2,000 people have left the area to stay with friends or relatives, while more than 1,200 evacuated to shelters, according to officials.

Early morning footage from Ofunato on national broadcaster NHK showed orange flames close to buildings and white smoke billowing into the air.

The number of wildfires in Japan has declined since the peak in the 1970s, according to government data.

But there were about 1,300 across the country in 2023, concentrated in the February to April period when the air dries and winds pick up.

Ofunato saw just 2.5 millimetres (0.1 inches) of rainfall in February, breaking the previous record low for the month of 4.4 millimetres in 1967 and below the usual average of 41 millimetres.
Japan deploys 2,000 firefighters to tackle forest blaze



Tokyo, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



More than 2,000 firefighters are battling Japan's biggest forest fire in three decades, officials said Monday, as some 4,600 residents remain under an evacuation advisory.

One person died last week in the blaze in the northern region of Iwate, which follows record low rainfall in the area and last year's hottest summer on record across Japan, as climate change pushes up temperatures worldwide.

"Although it is inevitable that the fire will spread to some extent, we will take all possible measures to ensure there will be no impact on people's homes," Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said in parliament.

The fire near the city of Ofunato has burned through some 2,100 hectares (5,200 acres) since Thursday, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency said Monday.

Firefighters from 14 Japanese regions, including units from Tokyo, were now tackling the blaze, with 16 helicopters -- including from the military -- trying to douse the flames.

It is estimated to have damaged 84 buildings by Sunday, although details were still being assessed, the agency said.

Around 2,000 people have left the area to stay with friends or relatives, while more than 1,200 evacuated to shelters, according to officials.

Morning footage from Ofunato on national broadcaster NHK showed orange flames close to buildings and white smoke billowing into the air.

The number of wildfires in Japan has declined since the peak in the 1970s, according to government data.

But there were about 1,300 across the country in 2023, concentrated in the February to April period when the air dries and winds pick up.

Ofunato saw just 2.5 millimetres (0.1 inches) of rainfall in February -- breaking the previous record low for the month of 4.4 millimetres in 1967 and below the usual average of 41 millimetres.

Some types of extreme weather have a well established link with climate change, such as heatwaves or heavy rainfall.

Other phenomena like droughts, snowstorms, tropical storms and forest fires can result from a combination of complex factors.
Swedish police open 'sabotage' probe over Gotland water supply damage



Stockholm, March 3 (AFP) Mar 03, 2025



Swedish police said Monday they had opened an investigation into suspected sabotage after power cables to a pump supplying the Baltic Sea island of Gotland with water were intentionally disconnected.

Several electricity and communications infrastructures have been damaged in the Baltic Sea in recent months, after Finland and Sweden, which border the Baltic, joined NATO.

Many experts and political leaders have attributed the incidents to a "hybrid war" carried out by Russia against Western countries.

Authorities in Gotland, off Sweden's southeastern coast, "received an alarm regarding a water pump" on Sunday at around 5:30 pm (1630 GMT), police told AFP in an email.

Police did not disclose the exact location of the incident.

"A technician was dispatched to the scene and discovered that someone had opened an electrical cabinet, disconnected a cable and thereby cut power to the pump," police said.

The technician reconnected the cable and reset the alarm at 9:30 pm.

"The pump is operational again," police said.

Gotland police have cordoned off the area around the electrical cabinet in order to carry out a crime scene investigation.

No suspect has been arrested yet, they said.

If the action had gone undetected, much of Gotland's water supply could have been interrupted.

Some 61,000 people live on the 3,140-square-kilometre (1,212-square-mile) island.

The pump "supplies large parts of Gotland," Susanne Bjergegaard-Pettersson, the head of the island's water supply and sewage operations, told the Aftonbladet daily.
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An off-duty police officer shot a man dead after he was seen chasing two people with a knife at a Boston Chick-fil-A.

The officer who fired the fatal bullet had been sitting inside the fast-food restaurant on Copley Square along Boylston Street at around 5:30 p.m. when two people sprinted into the restaurant to escape a man pursuing them with a knife, said Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox.

Quickly, the off-duty officer intervened by identifying himself to the armed man and asked him to drop the knife. But the assailant failed to comply and was shot, police say. He succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital and was pronounced dead.

The officer was said to have also been taken to the hospital for treatment but did not sustain any injuries. Neither the victim nor the cop have been named as yet.

Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox suspect the incident arose at another location before escalating in the chicken shop.

"I couldnt believe that theres been a shooting around here. I was just on my way to get some Chick- fil-A but I couldnt even because theres caution tape everywhere," said one passerby to NBC10 Boston.

open image in gallery A knife-wielding man was shot along a busy street inside a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Boston Saturday evening ( Google Maps )

Boylston Street, where the incident occurred, between Dartmouth Street and Clarendon Street, was shut until Saturday evening to allow police to conduct an investigation.

Another resident told the outlet the attempted attack has raised fears in the area: It honestly just makes me question the general safety of Boston.

"This is a pretty tragic incident, Cox said during the Saturday night press conference.

He added: "We don't look for loss of life, and our condolences go out to the family of the individual. We are also proud of our police officers, whether on-duty or off-duty, who activate themselves to help save lives."

Doug McDonald, a resident of the area for 59 years, told CBS News he was unsurprised to hear of the incident.

He said: "It's much less safe than it was three years ago, two years ago. Dangerous just walking down the street. It's dirtier, it's more congested. It's sad, the Back Bay was gorgeous. Now it's kind of like a dump."

Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said authorities were desperately calling on members of the public to come forward with any information that may be of use to police.

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu also spoke on the incident during the press conference: "We know any act of violence is deeply impactful. We want to make sure that everyone knows the city has trauma services available for those who are victims of crime."

Witnesses or anyone with video footage of the incident are asked to call Boston PD at (617) 343-4470.
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A woman who falsely claimed she had cancer murdered her husband with a fatal dose of insulin to cover up a Ponzi scheme inspired by the movie War Dogs.

In the 2016 movie, Jonah Hill and Miles Teller play two amateur arms dealers who take advantage of a government initiative to bid on contracts with the Pentagon despite their lack of experience in the field.

Less than a year after the film's release, prosecutors say Natalie Cochran, 44, quit her job as a pharmacist and launched her version of the scheme.

Along with her husband, Michael, the couple from Beckley, West Virginia, registered a new company called Tactical Solutions Group. Cochran even made her employees watch War Dogs as an onboarding video, an investor told ABCs 20/20 last month.

The company was supposed to bid on contracts to sell weapons and other goods to the federal government, though neither Cochran had experience in arms dealing or government contracts.

To investors  and even Cochrans husband of 19 years  the new business was thriving. But Tactical Solutions Group turned out to be a ruse, as there were never any government contracts and Cochrans Ponzi scheme swindled the couples friends and family out of millions of dollars.

open image in gallery Natalie Cochran was back in court last Tuesday after being found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison in January 2025. ( WVVA )

Then the scheme took an ever darker turn when Michael Cochran, 38, died unexpectedly in February 2019, with forensic experts concluding he had been poisoned with a fatal dose of insulin.

Cochran claimed her husband had injected the hormone as part of his bodybuilding efforts, while prosecutors stated that Michael Cochrans killing was an attempt to conceal her crimes.

On January 29, 2025, she was found guilty of first-degree murder of Michael Cochran and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

In a final blow, the judge who presided over Cochrans murder trial denied her request for an acquittal during a post-trial hearing in Raleigh County Circuit Court last Tuesday.

Prosecutors say that the Cochrans indulged in a luxury lifestyle, securing about $2.5 million from at least 11 people on the promise of high-return investments after setting up in June 2017.

According to the Southern District of West Virginia's Attorney's Office, the money was put into personal bank accounts and spent on three homes, jewelry, lavish holidays, and several vehicles, including a 1965 Shelby Cobra.

On an application for a $100,000 loan from a local bank, the couple stated their business assets exceeded $500 million, according to ABC News.

We just thought they were doing so good that we were so proud of them, Donna Bolt, Michael Cochran's mother, told the outlet.

Bolt said that she had invested almost $250,000 with Tactical Solutions Group over a two-and-a-half-year period.

open image in gallery Donna Bolt, Michael Cochran's mother, said she gave hundreds of thousands of dollars to the couple ( ABC News/20/20 )

As 2018 drew to a close, Cochran faced financial difficulties repaying initial investors and difficulty in attracting new ones. Neither knew the company existed on paper only.

Investors' questions about their promised returns were met with excuses, including an alleged federal government shutdown and cancer treatments.

Dr. Zachary Halsey, the familys doctor, testified in January this year that he had no records of Cochrans cancer diagnosis.

Michael Cochran was also allegedly unaware of the scam and believed Tactical Solutions Group had federal contracts and that the government was holding their money, according to investigators.

Conchran was a puppet master and had everybody dancing at the bottom of their little strings, prosecutors said at her trial earlier this year.

On February 6, 2019, the couple was due to fly to Lynchburg, Virginia, for a meeting with Bank of America to open an account capable of managing their supposed vast wealth.

Cochran postponed the trip and told friends she had the flu and then sent a picture of her husband unconscious on the kitchen floor at around midday.

An unresponsive Michael Cochran was finally taken to a nearby hospital, several hours after telling concerned friends that he didnt want medical attention.

Doctors determined that he was suffering from cerebral edema  a swelling of the brain  and his blood glucose level was dangerously low. The husband was moved to a hospice and, five days later, on February 11, 2019, he was pronounced dead.

open image in gallery Cochran was photographed eating sweets during a post-trial hearing in Raleigh County Circuit Court last Tuesday ( WVVA )

Cochran continued to run the business, and just days before a $4 million deal to sell half of her company on June 25, 2019, police executed a search warrant on the couples home.

In September 2020, she pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering charges and in March 2021 received an 11-year prison sentence, along with an order to pay nearly $2.5 million in restitution.

With the federal case against Tactical Solutions Group settled, a state investigation into Michael Cochrans suspicious death was underway.

After initially believing the victim died of natural causes, Cochran was indicted for his murder in November 2021 before charges were dropped for his body to be exhumed for forensic tests.

Natalie was indicted again on murder charges in October 2023 and was convicted in January 2025.
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The man accused of killing seven people and injuring dozens of others at a Fourth of July parade in 2022 pleaded guilty Monday, just moments before opening arguments in his trial.

Robert E. Crimo III, 23, appeared in the Lake County circuit courtroom wearing a dark suit where he withdrew his not-guilty plea and pleaded guilty to murder and attempted murder charges in the shooting that unfolded in Highland Park, a suburb of Chicago.

Is that what you went over with your attorneys? Judge Victoria Rossetti asked Crimo after she read the charges. Yes, he replied to the judge.

He gave one-word answers, indicating he understood the charges. His mother, Denise Pesina, had a brief outburst at the news and was called up to the judge for a warning, but was ultimately allowed to stay.

open image in gallery Robert E. Crimo III., pleaded guilty on Monday, just moments before opening arguments in his trial

Crimos trial, which began on February 24 with jury selection, was expected to last about a month with testimony from survivors and police.

Prosecutors submitted thousands of pages of evidence, as well as hours of a videotaped interrogation during which police say Crimo confessed to the shooting, the Associated Press reported.

Crimo, an aspiring rapper who went by the name Awake the Rapper, was initially charged with 21 counts of first-degree murder  three counts for each person killed  as well as 48 counts of attempted murder. But prosecutors dropped the less serious 48 counts of aggravated battery before jury selection last week. In the end he pleaded guilty to a total of 69 charges of murder and attempted murder.

Authorities alleged Crimo perched on a roof and fired into crowds assembled for the annual Fourth of July parade in downtown Highland Park in 2022.

The victims killed in the shooting were Katherine Goldstein, 64; Jacquelyn Sundheim, 63; Stephen Straus, 88; Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, 78; Eduardo Uvaldo, 69; and married couple Kevin McCarthy, 37, and Irina McCarthy, 35. Dozens more were injured, including an eight-year-old boy, Cooper Roberts, who was left paralyzed from the waist down after a bullet severed his spinal column.

open image in gallery Visitors pay their respects for the seven people killed in the Fourth of July mass shooting in Highland Park ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The parade was canceled in 2023, with city leaders instead opting instead for a community walk. The parade was reinstated last year on a different route and with a memorial for the victims.

In June 2024, Crimo was expected to accept a plea deal and give victims and relatives a chance to address him publicly. But he showed up to court in a wheelchair and rejected the deal, surprising even his lawyers.

The trial came nearly two years after his fathers case in which he was charged in connection with how his son obtained a gun license.

In 2023, Robert Crimo Jr., a one-time mayoral candidate, pleaded guilty to seven misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct and served less than two months in jail.

open image in gallery Robert Crimo Jr., the mass killers father, hides his face in his hands during juror selection at the Lake County Courthouse last month (  Daily Herald 2025 )

Crimo was only 19 years old in 2019 and was only allowed to apply for a gun license with the sponsorship of a parent or guardian. His father agreed, even though a relative had reported to police that his son had a collection of knives and had threatened to kill everyone.

Sentencing is set for April 23. Crimo faces up to life in prison. Illinois abolished the death penalty in 2011.
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An 18-year-old Kentucky man has been charged with the murder of a 15-year-old girl, police have said.

Louisville Metro Police were called to reports of a stabbing on Saturday evening, where they found the teenage girl with multiple stab wounds. Officers tracked down Seviour in at the nearby Iroquois Manor Shopping Complex after a short chase and arrested him.

Police allege that the teenager was in a relationship with Seviour, who has been charged with murderdomestic violence, Wave3 News reports.

open image in gallery Kaden Seviour has been charged with murder in connection to a teens death. He is due to appear in court on March 3 ( Louisville Metro Corrections )

A witness told police that she heard the pair in the bedroom of the property on the 5300 block of Buckner Avenue, according to court documents.

The teenager, who police have not named, asked to be let out of the room and tried to open the door but wasnt able to. When the witness went around the back of the house to check on the girl, she opened a window and saw her on the ground.

Seviour jumped out of the window and fled on foot, according to the network.

When police arrived, they gave the 15-year-old medical assistance but she died at the scene. Its unclear what led to the stabbing.

Seviour is due to appear in court Monday at 9 a.m. for arraignment.
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A Michigan man who attacked a Black postal worker with a knife while yelling slurs at her because he was furious about receiving Kamala Harris ads in his mail has been convicted of assault.

Jurors deliberated for about two hours on Friday before finding 62-year-old Russell Frank Valleau guilty of assaulting a federal employee. He was acquitted of using a dangerous weapon in the assault.

The incident happened last October when the postal worker was delivering mail to Valleaus home in Farmington Hills.

Valleau, who was intoxicated, approached the victims vehicle and began yelling racist, sexual and derogatory remarks about Harris and the postal worker herself because of the political ads that were in his mail, according to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office.

Valleau told the mail carrier that he did not want that black b**** in his mailbox and then called her a black b****, Fox2Detroit reported.

Thats when Valleau pulled a knife out and lunged at the postal worker, who pepper sprayed him in the face, police said. Valleau fled the scene and was later arrested in a neighbor's yard.

open image in gallery The 62-year-old faces up to 12 months in jail when hes sentenced in May ( Farmington Hills Police Department )

While in custody, he continued his tirade, referring to the postal worker as a f***ing smelly n*****. He was warned about his language to which he responded to the police, Oh, you like n*****s.

The attack happened just weeks before the election, which the former Vice President ended up losing to Donald Trump.

In this highly charged political moment, everyone has a right to their political opinion and vote, Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald said at the time.

Whatever our political beliefs, no one should be assaulted or threatened because of their race, or for doing their job. Hate crimes impact all of us, and we will vigorously pursue all such cases.

open image in gallery Valleau was said to be angry at receiving political ads from Kamala Harris ( Getty Images )

Valleau was convicted following a three-day jury trial.

The jury also unanimously found that Valleau intentionally selected the postal worker for his attack because of her actual or perceived race or color, Fox2 reported.

A letter carrier was simply trying to do her job, and this defendant physically attacked her while using racist and offensive language, Acting U.S. Attorney Julie Beck said in a statement following the verdict.

This type of behavior has no place in our community and will not be tolerated.

Valleau is set to be sentenced on May 27. He faces up to 12 months in prison.
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, March 3. The event under the International Trade Center (ITC) project Turkmenistan: Trade Resilience and Integration, funded by the EU, was held in Ashgabat, Trend reports.

The event marked an important milestone in Turkmenistans efforts to enhance cross-border trade conditions in line with global standards.

The meeting convened representatives of national ministries, government agencies, and the private sector to discuss the development of Turkmenistan's National Trade Facilitation Roadmap based on the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) pre-compliance assessment. Experts outlined key strategies for streamlining cross-border trade and implementing TFA measures.

The central part of the event consisted of the presentation of the TFA Compliance Assessment Report, which provides an in-depth analysis of Turkmenistan's trade legislation and its compliance with WTO requirements. Experts from ITC and the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) highlighted necessary legislative reforms, simplification of trade procedures, and capacity-building initiatives for national institutions.

In his opening remarks, Johannes Baur, Head of Cooperation for Central Asia at the EU Delegation to Kazakhstan, stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to ensure the adoption and effective implementation of these reforms. He noted that Turkmenistans commitment to meeting international trade standards would enhance its economic resilience and regional integration.

The meeting reaffirmed Turkmenistans commitment to advancing trade facilitation reforms as part of broader economic modernization efforts. By fostering close cooperation between government institutions and the private sector, the country is taking concrete steps toward a more efficient and transparent trade environment. The EU and ITC will continue supporting these initiatives through technical assistance and policy guidance, ensuring steady progress in Turkmenistans trade integration journey.
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Nearly 15 years after their disappearance, a mother is petitioning a judge to declare her three sons legally dead. The boys vanished after a Thanksgiving visit with their father, a case that has haunted the small town of Morenci in Michigan near the Ohio border and remains unsolved.

Authorities suspect the father, John Skelton, is responsible for the boys' disappearance, though he has never been charged with their deaths. He is currently serving a 15-year prison sentence for failing to return the children to their mother, Tanya Zuvers. This conviction represents the sole legal action stemming from the tragic saga.

In an unusual hearing, a Lenawee County judge began reviewing evidence on Monday. Zuvers herself testified, along with police investigators who detailed the extensive, years-long search for Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner Skelton. The hearing offers a rare public glimpse into the investigation and the ongoing agony of a mother seeking closure.

Since November 2010, Zuvers has prayed someone "would cure her broken heart" with news about their whereabouts or that John Skelton would explain what really happened, attorney R. Burke Castleberry said in a court filing.

Heartbreakingly, none of that has occurred, he wrote.

open image in gallery This plaque honors the missing Skelton brothers in the municipal park on the banks of Bean Creek in Morenci, Mich., on Jan. 27, 2017. ( The Detroit News, 2017 )

Nathan Piwowarski, a lawyer in Cadillac, Michigan, who specializes in probate and estate law, said there can be many reasons to have someone declared dead, including "personal closure for the family."

A court declaration also could give someone authority to pursue a wrongful death claim or other civil claim, said Piwowarski, who is not involved in the case.

Castleberry declined to comment ahead of the hearing. Skelton, 53, appeared in court Monday by video conference from prison but said he didn't want to participate.

Everyone has got lawyers. I don't, he told Judge Catherine Sala. I'm at a disadvantage. Anything I say isnt going to make a difference.

open image in gallery This photo provided by Michigan Department of Corrections shows John Skelton

The brothers, ages 9, 7 and 5, lived in Morenci, a small community next to the Ohio border, 100 miles (161 kilometers) southwest of Detroit. Zuvers was seeking a divorce from Skelton in fall 2010 and the boys were with him, a few doors away, on Thanksgiving.

They were supposed to return to Zuvers the next morning. Instead, they were gone. Police later determined Skelton's phone was in Ohio at 4:30 a.m. before it was turned off and then turned back on at 6 a.m. in Morenci.

Skelton denied harming his sons and said they were with an underground group for their safety, among other murky explanations, according to investigators.

People spent weeks searching woods and waters in Michigan and Ohio. While in prison, Skelton told authorities that a man who helps people leave Amish communities might know about the boys, but Castleberry said it was another lie.

Investigators at the court hearing will detail the farfetched, unfathomable yarns John Skelton spun, leading authorities on one wild goose chase after another, Castleberry said.

Years have passed, but people in Morenci have not forgotten the Skelton brothers. A plaque with their names and images is attached to a rock at a park near Bean Creek. It says, Faith, Hope, Love.
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A Mississippi woman is behind bars after she allegedly shot and killed her husband during an argument over a social media friend request.

Rashaan Wallace, 30, was arrested and charged with the murder of Damion Reed, 33, who was pronounced dead at their residence at Brookhollow Drive on the morning of February 23.

Detectives said the shooting stemmed from an argument between the couple that began when Reed became upset about a friend request Wallace had made.

Reed approached his wife during the confrontation and she allegedly fired a warning shot with the gun.

When he allegedly refused to back down, Wallace then shot and killed him, detectives said.

Wallace, who is a licensed practical nurse, then performed CPR on her husband and called 911.

She is being held at the Hinds County Detention Center and her bond was set at $50,000.
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A Texas teenager and her mother are behind bars after a dispute with a neighbor turned into a violent stabbing.

The 13-year-old allegedly stabbed her 19-year-old male neighbor on Sunday at the Aldine apartment complex in Harris County, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies said the two neighbors, who had ongoing issues, were arguing outside the apartment when the man pushed the teenager who then retreated to her unit.

When she returned moments later, she had a knife and stabbed the man multiple times, deputies said.

The man injured in the stabbing was hospitalized in serious but fair condition.

In an updated post on X, the sheriffs office announced that the girl had been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

She was booked into Harris County Juvenile Probation Center.

Arrest update: the teen (13) is being charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and booked in the Harris County Juvenile Probation Center.



The teens mom, Estela Martinez (7-27-81), has been charged with Tampering with Evidence and booked in the Harris County Jail. https://t.co/ubqGO70MtP  Ed Gonzalez (@SheriffEd_HCSO) March 2, 2025

The teenagers mother, Estela Martinez, 43, was also taken into custody. Martinez allegedly took the knife and tried to hide it in a bottle of laundry detergent.

When the knife was found, Martinez told deputies she hid the weapon to keep her daughter from getting in trouble, Click2Houston reported.

Martinez has been charged with tampering with evidence. She was booked in the Harris County Jail on a $25,000 bond.
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The crypto market has surged by more than half a trillion dollars after Donald Trump announced the names of five cryptocurrencies that would be included in a US strategic reserve.

In a post to Truth Social on Sunday, the US president said that bitcoin (BTC), ether (ETH), XRP, solana (SOL) and cardano (ADA) will be used in the reserve, which he claimed would make the US the Crypto Capital of the World.

All five cryptocurrencies jumped in value following the announcement, taking the overall crypto market cap back above $3 trillion after more than a week of losses.

A US Crypto Reserve will elevate this critical industry after years of corrupt attacks by the Biden Administration, which is why my Executive Order on Digital Assets directed the Presidential Working Group to move forward on a Crypto Strategic Reserve that includes XRP, SOL, and ADA, Trump wrote in a post to Truth Social.

I will make sure the US is the Crypto Capital of the World... And obviously BTC and ETH, as other valuable cryptocurrencies, will be the heart of the Reserve. I also love Bitcoin and Ethereum.

More details about the strategic reserve will be revealed on Friday, when Trump hosts the first Crypto Summit at the White House.

Crypto industry figures have said the creation of a strategic reserve could trigger a crypto arms race, as other countries attempt to keep up with the worlds leading economy.

Other nations will likely feel compelled to respond, and in doing so, bitcoin and the wider cryptocurrency market are primed for unprecedented gains, said Nigel Green, chief executive of the financial advisory firm deVere Group.

This move cements the legitimacy of digital assets in a way that will redefine global finance, with bitcoin potentially soaring to all-time highs of $200,000 by the end of 2025, we predict.

Bitcoin shot up from $85,000 t0 $95,000 in the hours following Trumps announcement, but has since retreated to $92,000.

It remains a long way off the record highs above $109,000 in late January, which were brought about by optimism surrounding Trumps inauguration, and his promise to be the first ever crypto president.

He first floated the idea of a crypto strategic reserve during his presidential campaign, when he told the audience at the Bitcoin 2024 conference in Nashville that it could be funded by assets seized in law enforcement actions.
China's annual "two sessions" draw global attention. We spoke to Mudassar Iqbal, deputy director of the Associated Press of Pakistan, to hear his thoughts on the "two sessions" and China's development.

Iqbal said, China is playing a very crucial role for the other nations. "We need to learn how to catch the fish, not to eat the fish."
ASHGABAD, Turkmenistan, March 3. Chairman of the Turkmenistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI), Mergen Gurdov, met with the Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan, Ravshanbek Alimov, in Ashgabat, Trend reports.

In the course of the meeting, the Uzbek diplomat highlighted Turkmenistans strong export potential and proposed the creation of joint ventures between the two countries.

The discussions focused on expanding regional cooperation between Turkmenistan and neighboring regions of Uzbekistan, which would open up new business opportunities. In this regard, it was suggested to hold the Third Turkmen-Uzbek Interregional Forum in Uzbekistan in 2025. During the negotiations, Alimov invited the Turkmen delegation to participate in international forums and exhibitions to be held in Uzbekistan throughout the year.

In conclusion, since trade between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan reached $67.2 million in January 2025, more than double last year's figures, the proposal for joint ventures is a promising step in strengthening bilateral economic ties.
We laughed, we cried, we checked our watches. And we honoured a roster of winners ranging from the expected (Kieran Culkin, Zoe Saldana for best supporting performances) to the genuinely surprising (Demi Moore overlooked for best actress). For 3 hours, Hollywood did what it does best, chewing the scenery and pushing the script to the limit.

The night kicked off with a showstopping triptych from the world of L. Frank Baum: Ariana Grande singing Over the Rainbow from the 1939 classic The Wizard of Oz, Cynthia Erivo singing Home from its 1978 remake The Wiz and, finally, the two stars of Wicked performing a duet of Defying Gravity.

Oscar winners (from left) Adrien Brody (best actor, The Brutalist,) Mikey Madison (best actress, Anora), Zoe Saldana, (best supporting actress, Emilia Perez) and Kieran Culkin (best supporting actor, A Real Pain). Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

It ended with Anora, made for just $US6 million ($9.6 million), taking home best picture, best actress for Mikey Madison, and for creator Sean Baker: best original screenplay, best editing and best director.

First-time Oscar host Conan OBrien had a theory on its popularity: I guess Americans are excited to see someone finally stand up to a powerful Russian.
As a retired electrical engineer, Kate Coates of Wangi Wangi thinks it worth noting that magnificent scientist and engineer Nikola Tesla, along with predecessor Michael Faraday, gave us the foundations of many of the electro-based systems, machines and devices we enjoy today. Whilst I understand why, I am nevertheless disappointed that the name Tesla is presently so maligned, and implore readers to separate in their minds the genius Tesla of the past from the buffoon now associated with the name. Both Tesla and Faraday have been honoured by the International System of Units, a Tesla being a measure of magnetic flux density and a Farad being a measure of capacitance. If theres ever a measure called an Elon, I, for one, will run screaming from the room.

Regarding the reproductive vibe readers have been getting from the Tesla badge (C8), Kerry Kyriacou of Strathfield has noticed another troubling imprint: The Chicago Bulls [NBA] logo is very disturbing when viewed upside down. Dont Google it and, if you do, dont say I didnt warn you. In the interests of due diligence, we ignored his advice. Suffice to say there are some things you cannot unsee.

The story of the washing-up felony [C8] reminds me of a Brisbane man who worked as a house cleaner years ago, writes David Morrison of Springwood. He told me that in one house, he saw a huge spider and instinctively disposed of it via the vacuum cleaner hose. The lady of the house roundly scolded him for bringing her pet to an untimely end.

While playing golf with my son at Prestwick Golf Club in Scotland, our caddie remarked as we walked up the 18th that the cemetery [C8] adjacent contained the remains of the inventor of the crossword, recalls Peter Gaydon of Turramurra. To find it, he said, you come out of the church and go six down and four across.

The Mediterranean Diet [C8] caters for all tastes, asserts David M. Calvey of Gosford. Chris Commens might be interested to learn that the pine resin which flavours retsina is also present in Toilet Duck. Explains why Chris said hed keep sipping cautiously.
A complex multibillion-dollar conversion of an existing rail line to metro train standards as part of the final stage of Sydneys new M1 line is at risk of not opening this year as planned due to delays partly blamed on industrial action by rail workers.

The extent of the delay to the opening of the converted metro line between Sydenham and Bankstown will hinge on testing of driverless trains, due to start within the next few weeks and which will take months.

Part of the existing M1 metro line was closed for a third day on Monday to carry out overhead wiring connections for the Bankstown lines conversion, forcing commuters to use double-deck trains or buses between Sydenham and Central station.

Premier Chris Minns (left) chats to Sydney Metro chief executive Peter Regan at a giant construction site near Rosehill Racecourse. Credit: Nick Moir

Questioned about whether the converted section will open this year, Sydney Metro chief executive Peter Regan said the agency was working through that at the moment, adding that the project had faced challenges including industrial action which forced a resequencing of work.
On the Werribee line, a new station at Altona North was recommended  at a cost of up to $250 million  to bridge the longest gap between stops across Melbournes rail network. Our research shows that extending the Metro train line to Melton is needed urgently to meet rapidly growing demand, Infrastructure Victoria chief executive Jonathan Spear said. It will reduce congestion on many roads and train lines in the west during morning peak hours. Rowena Joske and son Duncan, 10, near the old Paisley train station in Altona North. Credit: Chris Hopkins

Rowena Joske said that since Altona Norths Paisley railway station closed in 1985, it was like living in a black hole for public transport. Loading Joske, the secretary of Better West, a resident advocacy group for Altona North, South Kingsville and Spotswood, said a significant amount of industrial land had been rezoned for medium and high-density housing in the area. The population is expected to increase by 70 per cent over 20 years. Joske wants more public transport options in the community, including the reopening of Paisley station. We are a very car-dependent area at the moment. We know that Altona North cant handle this growth without more public transport, she said.

Longer-term recommendations include altering the City Loop to boost services on the Craigieburn, Upfield and Frankston lines. This could be done by building three kilometres of new tunnel and separating two of the loops existing tunnels for these trains to create cross-city rail lines running from one end of Melbourne to another. The strategy also says Victoria should plan for the extension of Metro train network to Kalkallo in Melbournes north and Clyde in the south-east to support growing suburbs. Infrastructure Victoria has called on the government to start building eight tram extensions by 2030 to assist with the states goal of encouraging more housing in developed parts of Melbourne. This includes extending routes around the CBD from Swanston Street to Kensington and from Spencer Street to Flemington Bridge. Another two routes would connect Southern Cross Station and the future Anzac Station to Fishermans Bend.

In middle-ring suburbs, Chadstone would be connected by tram for the first time via a route linking East Malvern and Hughesdale. Other extensions would stretch from East Brighton to Moorabbin, Melville Road to Batman station in Coburg and Wattle Park to Burwood East. The total cost of the tram line extensions is estimated at between $4 billion and $5.5 billion. The four middle-ring upgrades are expected to encourage 32,000 new homes in these areas and boost daily public transport trips by 17,500. Another key plank of the bodys transport recommendations is to build a bus rapid transit network, which would include large buses running along dedicated lanes. It would offer high-frequency services every five minutes during peak hours and every 10 minutes at other times.

Infrastructure Victoria has called for five routes to be progressed by the early 2030s, including from Melton to Broadmeadows, Huntingdale to Upper Ferntree Gully and Endeavour Hills to Southland. A busway along the Eastern Freeway should also be extended to Hoddle Street to prevent these services becoming gridlocked in the traffic bottleneck, the strategy says. Each route could be delivered separately. The cost of the Eastern busway would be between $500 million and $1.4 billion, while the other routes range between $200 million and $900 million. Spear said running buses more often delivered benefits similar to big road or rail projects at much lower cost, and the first five rapid transit routes and the Eastern Freeway would total up to $3.5 billion. Bus rapid transport routes in Melbourne could deliver at least $2.60 in benefits for every dollar spent, he said.

Existing bus routes should also run more often, including earlier starts and later finishes, to help shift workers who now had no choice but to drive, the strategy said. Across all growth areas, almost 60 per cent of residents cannot reach a service that arrives at least every 20 minutes or better, Spear said. In its report, Infrastructure Victoria said that the high cost of materials and skill shortages were making new projects more difficult and expensive to deliver. It said that with net debt set to top $150 billion this year, the Victorian government might need to limit future spending, requiring it to carefully restrict investment to deliver the most benefits. Public Transport Users Association president Tony Morton said electrifying the rail line to Melton was a no-brainer, and backed the reports focus on improved services and better use of existing road and rail.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, March 3. Uzbekistan has signed a memorandum with the Iranian Agricultural Machinery Manufacturers Association (ATMAK) to advance agricultural mechanization and strengthen technological partnerships, Trend reports.

The document was signed within the framework of the Uzbek delegation's visit to Iran, led by the Director of the Administrative and Economic Service under Uzbekistans Ministry of Agriculture

This agreement was part of a series of deals reached during a visit by a delegation led by the Director of the Administrative and Economic Service under Uzbekistans Ministry of Agriculture.

Uzbekistan also reached an agreement with Sirang UAV Company to supply modern agricultural drones and create infrastructure for their maintenance. In addition, the Administrative and Economic Service, Bazargan Kala Company, and the National Center (AKIS) signed a contract for testing and gradual localization in Uzbekistan of 40 types of fertilizers and pesticides under the Nutritech brand.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Iran reached $33.4 million in January 2025. This is 11.1 percent less compared to the same period last year ($37.6 million in January 2024).
Tenants would need a six-figure pay packet in all of Australias largest cities to rent a typical home without being in housing stress, and are resorting to housemates later in life and lower-quality homes to cope.

A breakdown of annual gross incomes required to dedicate no more than 30 per cent of earnings towards rent shows the riches required in cities and regional areas to meet steep, albeit slowing, rental prices.

Sydneys median dwelling  including houses and units  costs $775 a week to rent, CoreLogic figures from January show, calling for a gross annual household income of $134,384 to pay comfortably.

Melbournes median rent is $604 a week, which would require an annual income of $104,757 to avoid rent stress.
Beed Sarpanch murder: Chargesheet names Walmik Karad as mastermind





MUMBAI :

THE state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in its 1,800-page chargesheet filed in the brutal killing of Massajog sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh has named Walmik Karad, who is a close associate of NCP leader and state minister Dhananjay Munde as the mastermind. Karad has already been booked under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act in connection with the Rs 2 crore extortion from a developer of a wind power project, Avaada Energy and this case is linked to the murder of the sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. Along with Karad, the seven others have been named in the chargesheet as accused in the case. The police have already arrested seven including Karad while Krishna Andhale is still missing after the murder took place in December last year. The Special Investigation Team led by senior IPS officer Basavaraj Teli is also probing the case.

The chargesheet has been filed along with matching voice samples of Karad and the company employees, and CCTV footage showing the connection of the accused in the murder case with the extortion crime. The police sources said that after CID investigation with the help of about 180 witnesses and a jury, Walmik has been named as the mastermind of the crime. Evidence has been presented against eight accused including Karad. The digital evidence in this investigation conducted under the guidance of Investigation Officer Basavaraj Teli has been examined and prepared by the forensic laboratory. In the extortion case, Walmik has been accused of being the mastermind behind the crime, saying, End him as soon as he comes, otherwise he will be forced to beg. Among the accused, Sudarshan Ghule and his accomplices were involved in organised crime.

The chargesheet states that he and his accomplices committed 11 crimes in 10 years in Kej, Ambajogai from Beed district and Dharur and Kalamb from Dharashiv district. According to the chargesheet, on October 8, 2024, Avaada Energys Land Acquisition Officer Shivaji Thopte went to meet Walmik Karad at his office in Parli at his request. Vishnu Chate was present at that time. At this time, Karad threatened, If you want to keep the company running, pay Rs 2 crore or else stop all the work of Avada Company in Beed district. Further, on November 29, for the same demand, Sudarshan Ghule threatened, Fulfil Walmik Annas demand and meet him. Do not start the work till then. Avadda Energys land acquisition officer Shivaji Thopte was abused and beaten up, threatening to pay Rs 2 crore or else the company would be closed. Thereafter, the company employees called and informed the sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh about the incident. Following this, Sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh went to the site and requested Sudarshan Ghule and his associates, Dont close the company. Let people get employment.

At that time, since Sudarshan Ghule was at the forefront of demanding extortion, he threatened sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh, saying that he would not leave him alive. On the afternoon of November 29, 2024, Walmik Karad, Vishnu Chate, Sudarshan Ghule, Prateek Ghule, Sudhir Sangle and Krishna Andhale held a meeting at Vishnu Chates office in Kej and demanded that Avaada Energy should pay Rs 2 crore. They hatched a conspiracy on the recovery of ransom and also how to deal with sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh. According to the chargesheet, Santosh Deshmukh was abducted from the Dongaon toll plaza on December 9 last year and murdered. Since the chargesheet was filed in the court within 80 days, it will now be difficult for the accused to get bail, said the police sources. The government recently appointed senior advocate Ujjwal Nikam as special prosecutor in the case.
Israel STOPS Entry of aid into Gaza strip





TEL AVIV :

Warns of additional consequences if Hamas does not accept a new proposal of ceasefire

ISRAEL stopped the entry of all goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip on Sunday and warned of additional consequences if Hamas doesnt accept a new proposal to extend a fragile ceasefire. Hamas accused Israel of trying to derail the existing ceasefire agreement and said its decision to cut off aid was cheap extortion, a war crime and a blatant attack on the truce, which took hold in January after more than a year of negotiations. Both sides stopped short of saying the ceasefire had ended.

The first phase of the ceasefire, which included a surge in humanitarian assistance, expired on Saturday. The two sides have yet to negotiate the second phase, in which Hamas was to release dozens of remaining hostages in return for an Israeli pullout and a lasting ceasefire. Egypt, which has served as a key mediator between Israel and Hamas, condemned the closure and accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon.

Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for the immediate implementation of Phase 2 of the existing ceasefire agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that under the existing agreements Israel could resume fighting after the first phase if it believed negotiations were ineffective. He said the ceasefire would only continue if Hamas kept releasing hostages, telling his Cabinet that there will be no free lunches. He said Israel was full coordinated with President Donald Trumps administration. There was no immediate comment from the United States on the proposal announced by Israel or its decision to cut off aid. Hundreds of aid trucks have entered Gaza daily since the ceasefire began on January 19. But residents said prices doubled on Sunday as word of the closure spread and people raced to stock up.
Number of Bhashini mobile app users will reach 1 cr in next two years: Amitabh Nag





Business Reporter :

The pathbreaking initiative aimed at democratizing access to digital content and services across Indias linguistic spectrum is already helping nearly 10 lakh citizens translate content in various Indian languages

Bhashini mobile app, Indias own AI-driven language translation tool, is expected to assist more than 1 crore users in the country in the next two years. Launched in 2022, the pathbreaking initiative aimed at democratizing access to digital content and services across Indias linguistic spectrum is already helping nearly 10 lakh citizens translate content in various Indian languages enabling them to communicate effectively. In an exclusive interaction with The Hitavada, Amitabh Nag, Chief Executive Officer, Digital India Bhashini Division, said that today majority of the users are concentrated in metro cities.

We are now looking at reaching out to masses, especially the youths, in tier II, tier III cities and rural pockets of the country. In collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra, we are conducting Maha Hackathon Challenge 1.0 in the State. Besides creating awareness, we are also inspiring startups and innovators in Nagpur to submit their breakthrough ideas for empowering AI-driven innovations to revolutionize public service delivery in Maharashtra, he said. While the first session of Maha Hackathon Challenge 1.0 was recently conducted at IIM Nagpur, authorities are planning its next session in Pune in coming days. Amitabh Nag said that the mobile app allows users to converse through three key features - Text, Voice, and Converse.

The Text feature supports translation into 22 Indian languages, while the Converse and Speak features each cover 20 languages, contributing to enhanced linguistic accessibility and understanding. We are now looking at achieving the next level of the app. Bhashini on behalf of Government of Maharashtra is inviting innovative ideas to improve our chatbot, anti drone system, use of drones in rescue operations and speech to speech translation tool for Marathi language, he said. Bhashini, an abbreviation for Bhasha Interface for India, is developed under the National Language Translation Mission (NLTM) by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India. Bhashini operates as an AI-driven language translation system, breaking down language barriers and enabling conversations between speakers of different Indian languages. The platform is accessible through dedicated Android and iOS apps, providing a user-friendly experience.
UK, France, Ukraine agree to work on , to present it to US





LONDON :

BRITAIN, France and Ukraine have agreed to work on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday before a summit with European leaders to discuss ending the war. The meeting has been overshadowed by the extraordinary scolding by US President Donald Trump of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday for being ungrateful for US support against the invasion by Russia. But Starmer said hes focused on being a bridge to restore peace talks, whose collapse he used as an opportunity to re-engage with Trump, Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron rather than ramp up the rhetoric. Weve now agreed that the United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then well discuss that plan with the United States, Starmer told the BBC. Starmer and Macron have both spoken to Trump since Friday. Sundays meeting is an important step.

The London meeting has taken on greater importance in defending the war-torn ally and shoring up the continents defences. Sundays summit is likely to include talks on establishing a European military force to be sent to Ukraine to underpin a ceasefire. Starmer said it would involve a coalition of the willing. Starmer said he does not trust Russian President Vladimir Putin but does trust Trump. Do I believe Donald Trump when he says he wants lasting peace? The answer to that is yes, he said. Starmer said there are intense discussions to get a security guarantee from the US. If there is to be a deal, if there is to be a stopping of the fighting, then that agreement has to be defended, because the worst of all outcomes is that there is a temporary pause and then (Russian President Vladimir) Putin comes again, Starmer said. That has happened in the past, I think it is a real risk, and that is why we must ensure that if theres a deal, it is a lasting deal, not a temporary pause.

The three essentials listed by Starmer for a successful peace deal were: arm the Ukrainians to put them in a position of strength; a European element to guarantee security; and a US backstop, to prevent Putin from breaking promises. Thats the package. All three parts need to be in place, and thats what Im working hard to bring together, Starmer said. Leaders began arriving early on Sunday afternoon for the meeting at Lancaster House, a 200-year-old mansion near Buckingham Palace, following a charm offensive last week to persuade Trump to put Ukraine at the centre of negotiations and tilt his allegiances toward Europe. Leaders from France, Germany, Denmark, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Canada, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic and Romania will be at the summit. The Turkish Foreign Minister, NATO secretary-general and the presidents of the European Commission and European Council will also attend.

EUROPEAN LEADERS ARE BACKING ZELENSKYY:

Zelenskyy received broad support from leaders across Europe after the White House fiasco, an exceptional attack on an ally broadcast on live television. Starmer embraced Zelenskyy when he arrived Saturday for a private meeting in Downing Street. As you heard from the cheers on the street outside, you have full backing across the United Kingdom, Starmer said. We stand with you, with Ukraine, for as long as it may take. Europe has been anxious since Trump initiated direct peace talks with Putin, who had been isolated by most Western leaders since invading Ukraine three years ago. The scramble to remain relevant and protect European interests as their once stalwart ally appeared to be cozying up to Putin was even more troubling when Trump called Zelenskyy a dictator and falsely said Ukraine started the war. Meetings in recent days had provided some hope  until Zelenskyys visit to the White House. Visits to the Oval Office by Macron, who had declared his visit a turning point, and Starmer were seen as steps in the right direction.

The meetings were cordial and Trump even took a gentler tone toward Ukraine, though he would not commit to providing US Security guarantees and maintained Europe would need to provide peacekeeping troops. Within 12 hours of Starmers return from Washington, the talk of peace seemed to collapse as Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy for challenging Trumps assertions that Russian President Vladimir Putin could be trusted. Starmer did an impressive job of asserting Europes agency in the war on Ukraine and conveying to President Trump that Europe is willing and able to take a leading role in implementing any credible peace deal, said Rachel Ellehuus, director-general of Royal United Services Institute, a defence and security think tank. Unfortunately, Fridays White House meeting was a major step backward. Ukraine can no longer count on military or political support from the US after Trump declared himself neutral in negotiations, Ellehuus said. She said Europe needs to step in and could release some 200 billion euros (USD 207 billion) in seized Russian assets to help fund that effort. The immediate goal of the meetings in London must be to keep Ukraine in the fight so it can negotiate from a maximum position of strength, she said.

EUROPEAN LEADERS PLEDGE TO INCREASE MILITARY SPENDING: Starmer pledged this week to boost military spending to 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product by 2027. Other European nations may follow suit. Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on Saturday that Europe faces a historic test and has to look after itself. He said European countries have to increase their arms spending to reach at least 3 per cent of GDP. If we dont increase our effort fast enough and let the aggressor dictate its conditions, we wont end up well, he said. Macron, who said it was legitimate for the US to shift its focus to dealing with China and Asia, also called for more defence spending as he called for unity. We should have woken up earlier, Macron said. Ive been saying for years that we need a more sovereign, more united, more independent Europe.
Uttarakhand Avalanche: Death toll rises to 8, rescue op ends





THIRUVANANTHAPURAM :

VICE President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday expressed concern over the orchestrated, financially backed misadventures aimed at effecting conversions taking place in the country to secure prowess and urged everyone to remain vigilant in thwarting them. Delivering the 4th P Parameswaran Memorial Lecture, organised by the Bharatheeya Vichara Kendra, Dhankhar stated that demographic evolution should be organic and natural. However, if inorganic variations occur, then we must be alarmed.

Demography matters. It should not be confused with majoritarianism. We cannot have a society divided into two camps. Demographic evolution must be organic, natural, and harmonious. Only then can it reflect unity in diversity. We must remain extremely alert. Everyone must come together to preserve the pristine demographic sanctity of Bharat, he urged. But if demographic variations are brought about like a virtual earthquake, there is cause for concern. If inorganic demographic shifts occur with the intent of increasing a particular demographic component to secure prowess, then we must be alarmed.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, March 3. Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Nurlan Yermekbayev plans to conduct official visits to Central Asian countries in March 2025, Trend reports via SCO.

Yermekbayev's visit to Uzbekistan will take place from March 4 through 7, to Tajikistan - from March 14 through 15, and to Kyrgyzstan - from March 17 through 19.

In the course of the Central Asian visit, Yermekbayev will hold meetings with the leadership of the countries and foreign policy agencies, and take part in round tables at leading political science centers and other public events.

Nurlan Yermekbayev has already visited Russia, Belarus, and India in January and February 2025.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Cargo transit through the western ports of Hormozgan Province in Southern Iran has seen a 29 percent rise during the current Iranian year (from March 20, 2024, through February 18, 2025) compared to the same period last year (from March 21, 2023, through February 19, 2024), Murtaza Salari, head of the western ports administration in Hormozgan, told reporters, Trend reports.

Salari noted that over the past eleven months, the transit of both oil and non-oil products through the province's western ports exceeded 502,000 tons.

He also mentioned that 215,125 passenger cars were transited through the Lenge port, with the cargo being transported by 3,439 ships to Iraq and Central Asian countries during the reporting period.

To note, a total of ten ports are operating in the west of Iran's Hormozgan province. Among these ports, Lengeh, Charak, Siri, and Lavan ports are the most active.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Iran has significantly increased its stockpile of enriched uranium, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi as he addressed the IAEA Board of Governors, Trend reports.

"Following my last report, Iran's stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% U235 has increased to 275 kg, up from 182 kg in the past quarter. Iran is the only non-nuclear weapon State enriching to this level, causing me serious concern," Grossi stated.

He also highlighted that it has been four years since Iran stopped implementing its nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), including the provisional application of its Additional Protocol. "It is also four years since the Agency was able to conduct complementary access in Iran," he noted.

While Iran asserts that it has fully declared all nuclear material, activities, and locations under its NPT Safeguards Agreement, the IAEA has found uranium particles of anthropogenic origin at undeclared sites, raising further concerns. The agency has stressed the need to determine the current location of this nuclear material or any contaminated equipment.

Additionally, the IAEA has identified a discrepancy in the material balance of uranium used in metal production experiments at the Jaber Ibn Hayan Multipurpose Laboratory, for which Iran has yet to provide a full account.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Unresolved safeguard issues related to Iran's nuclear program must be addressed to ensure that the country's nuclear activities remain exclusively peaceful, said Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), during his speech at the IAEA Board of Governors meeting, Trend reports.

"I am seriously concerned that the outstanding safeguards issues remain unresolved," Grossi said. "They stem from Irans obligations under its Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement and need to be resolved for the agency to be in a position to provide assurance that Irans nuclear programme is exclusively peaceful."

Grossi also highlighted the lack of progress in resolving the issues. "I deeply regret that Iran, despite having indicated a willingness to consider accepting the designation of four additional experienced agency inspectors, did not accept their designation," he noted, signaling frustration with Tehrans refusal to cooperate.

The IAEA chief further pointed out that there had been no significant progress in implementing the Joint Statement of 4 March 2023, which aimed to address ongoing concerns. "I call upon Iran urgently to implement the Joint Statement through serious engagement," Grossi urged.

Looking ahead, Grossi confirmed that in response to the Boards request, he would provide a comprehensive and updated assessment regarding the presence and use of undeclared nuclear material in Iran. "I will produce a comprehensive and updated assessment on the presence and use of undeclared nuclear material in connection with past and present outstanding issues regarding Irans nuclear programme," he said.

Grossi underscored the importance of high-level engagement to resolve these issues. He recalled his visit to Tehran last November and meetings with key Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as indicating potential for constructive dialogue. "My visit to Tehran last November, and meetings with President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi, indicate that there may be room for constructive compromises," Grossi stated. "I hope to see them again soon and pursue effective dialogue and tangible results."
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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Iran will respond to the decision to be made at the upcoming meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) Board of Governors, said the country's Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Esmaeil Baghaei, Trend reports.

According to him, Iran once again underlines that it expects International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi to take steps in line with his responsibilities. A statement based on likelihood is not part of the secretary-general's duties and does not help solve the problem.

The Spokesperson further stated that it has been repeatedly proven that Iran's nuclear program is based on international frameworks, including the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and is under full supervision by the IAEA.

"The IAEA monitors Iran's nuclear program with all its capabilities. Iran also highlights that some of the statements regarding its nuclear program are made based on the desires of certain Western countries," Baghaei added.

On February 14, the IAEA Director General Grossi reported that Iran is increasing the amount of uranium enriched to 60 percent by nearly seven times. In the coming weeks, Irans stock of 60 percent enriched uranium is expected to reach around 250 kilograms.

This amount of uranium enriched to 90 percent could be used to produce six nuclear bombs.

On January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018.

By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement.

Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 2030 percent.

Iran has officially affirmed that its strategy is not to pursue the development of an atomic bomb and that it does not support the production of weapons of mass destruction.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. No steps will be taken on Irans nuclear program without the countrys approval, said the country's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, Trend reports.

Speaking today during a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei emphasized that all parties involved are fully aware of the issue surrounding Irans nuclear program.

The Spokesperson noted that Russia, as a member of the UN Security Council and a key part of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), is involved in consultations with Iran on this matter. These consultations continue as part of the still-valid JCPOA agreement.

Baghaei further stated that during Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrovs visit to Tehran, discussions about Irans nuclear program were held, and consultations between the two countries on various issues, including the nuclear program, will continue regularly.

Regarding the potential for mediation between Tehran and Washington during Lavrovs visit, Baghai noted that such matters are of great significance. Many parties have expressed their willingness to assist in resolving the issues, and it is natural for countries to announce their readiness to help in this regard.

On January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018.

By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement.

Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 2030 percent.

Iran has officially affirmed that its strategy is not to pursue the development of an atomic bomb and that it does not support the production of weapons of mass destruction.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Infiltrators from across the border Rational of border fencing

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Clear all roads by March 8. Complete fencing work on both sides of the designated entry points along Manipurs inter- national border at the earliest. Entire network involved in the drug trade should be dismantled. This was Union Home Minister Amit Shah during the first high level security meeting held after the imposition of Presidents Rule in Manipur and the instructions come close to the understanding of what the doctor would have prescribed after attending to a sick and ailing man. Border fencing is one step which the Centre had announced some time back, in fact during the peak of the ethnic violence between the Meiteis and the Kuki-Zos and one just wishes some steps are also taken up to deal with the folks who had illegally intruded into the soil of Manipur and are now settled and have even got themselves admitted in the electoral roll of the State. How does one identify and pick them up ? Actuating the National Register of Citizens is one step that comes to mind and there is a reason why this call has found so many takers amongst the indigenous people of Manipur, namely the Nagas and the Meiteis. The Sangai Express has on more than one occasion pointed out how a Kuki gentleman by the name of Paolienlal Haokip had written in a publication of the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies back on May 23, 2002 how over 20,000 Kukis had migrated to Manipur during the Burmanisation programme of Ne Win in 1967. How many of these 20,000 Kukis have gone back and how many have settled here and are today claiming indigeneity to the land ? And again recall the exodus of numerous refugees during the military crackdown in Burma in 1988. The Inner Line Permit System is there no doubt with the base year put at 1961, but can one expect the ILP of weed out the infiltrators ? A tough call this is and it is along this line that the merit of fencing the Indo-Myanmar border should be acknowledged. At the same time it is also important to note that a number of Naga civil society organisations have voiced their strong opposition to the decision to fence the border and do away with the Free Movement Regime, with the All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM) submitting a memorandum to Governor AK Bhalla towards this end on February 26. The stand of the Nagas is understandable for they are spread across the border and they are not known to have come here and set up new settlements, which is something which cannot be said of the Kuki-Chin tribes. It was with a reason, why a Naga gentleman minced no words in pointing at at the unnatural growth of Kuki villages from 179 in 1969 to 721 in 2023, which is a jump of over 300 percent. This is in Kangpokpi district.

In a series of articles, the said Naga gentleman went on to elaborate that in the first Manipur Territorial Council (1957 to 1962) out of the 32 MLAs, there were 4 Naga MLAs, 1 Paite MLA and 1 Thadou Kuki MLA. Likewise in the first Manipur Legislative Assembly (1972 to 1973), there were 13 Naga MLAs and 6 Kuki-Chin MLAs. Then in the Second Manipur Legislative Assembly the number of Kuki-Chin MLAs increased to 7 while in the third Manipur Legislative Assembly the number of Naga MLAs decreased to 10 while the number of Kuki-Chin MLAs increased to 9. From the early 1980s, the number of Kuki and Naga MLAs became even with 10 each. The steady rise in the number of Kuki-Chin MLAs must directly correspond to their abnormal growth in population and the reason why this is being cited now should not be lost on the Naga community. The first casualty due to the steady influx from across the border has been the Nagas of Manipur. Again it was with a reason why Phungyar Assembly Constituency MLA Leishiyo Keishing took the Assembly by storm when he drew an alarming picture of the rapid increase in the number of people from across the border. All these factors should be taken into consideration in trying to understand the rational to fence the international border and do away with the FMR.
End Leprosy : Pathway is through stopping stigma against affected persons

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Shobha Shukla, Bobby Ramakant-CNS

Leprosy (Hansens disease) is a chronic infectious disease caused by a slow growing bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. But stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy is propelled by us - human beings. This stigma is not only manmade, but is also unjustified, violates human rights and is a result of being blind to the fact that leprosy is curable.

Leprosy is just any other infectious disease, not a curse or sin

Once feared as an incurable neglected tropical disease, leprosy has been treatable and curable with modern medicines since early 1980s. If diagnosed early and treated promptly, it is not disabling too. It is transmitted through close and frequent contact with people who have not been treated. It is NOT spread by casual contact like shaking hands, hugging, sharing meals, or sitting next to someone affected by the disease. Also, the patient stops transmitting the disease within three days after starting treatment with multi-drug therapy.

Leprosy is just like any other infectious disease and its bacteria can infect anyone susceptible to it. It is not caused by some sin of past life or by any 'divine curse'. Then why are we stigmatising and discriminating people affected by leprosy even today? wonders Maya Ranavare, the first female national President of the Association of Persons Affected by Leprosy (APAL). APAL works in 18 states of India connecting people affected by leprosy living in around 800 leprosy colonies.

Maya was born and raised in a leprosy colony in Maharashtra state of India.

Years back, her mother was affected by leprosy. Maya's husband too had leprosy and got cured. As I was living in a leprosy colony, healthcare workers did their routine screening regularly. When I was about six years old, I was diagnosed quickly after healthcare workers saw white spots. I could access the medicines and get cured, thanks to them, she said.

Today, she battles leprosy-related stigma and discrimination that continues to cause havoc in the lives of people affected with leprosy even today.

That is why, she and other #endLeprosy leaders together launched a Global Appeal 2025 to end stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy. It was launched from Odisha (one of the high leprosy burden states in India) with endorsement from ministries of health of 56 countries worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination Yohei Sasakawa said that 2025 marks 20th anniversary since the Global Appeal was first launched in 2006 in India, home to largest number of people affected by leprosy worldwide. "If we join hands and combine our efforts the vision of a leprosy free world is not an impossible dream- together we can make it possible," said Sasakawa.

Being on the frontlines of fighting stigma

Maya is a remarkable person indeed! Having firsthand witnessed the trials and tribulations (as well as a lot of resilience and some triumphs) of people affected by leprosy since her childhood, she has lived experience of facing and confronting stigma, discrimination and ostracism. She is a survivor and continues to make a difference for the people affected by leprosy globally.

As a woman leader of APAL, Maya has helped highlight and respond to leprosy-related issues with a gender lens. Many girls and women share their concerns which underline the critical need for a gender-sensitive response to address leprosy and other health and development challenges, including stigma, they face- within their homes / families, or at workplaces, or in society in general. Sharing is caring and together unitedly they are trying to find gendered and locally relevant solutions to counter negative and harmful stereotypes related to leprosy and gender.

She shared with CNS (Citizen News Service) that in the past years people who got leprosy disease, when abandoned by their families, were forced to seek shelter in the so called leprosy colonies. APAL survey shows that there are around 800 leprosy colonies in the country. Odisha state, which is one of the high leprosy burden states in India, has 86 leprosy colonies. Some of the people in leprosy colonies have been living there for the last 60-70 years. Thankfully, in the recent past no new leprosy colony has come up in India.

Maya has studied till 7th standard but has done us all proud by voicing the needs of people affected by leprosy nationwide and advo- cating for change. She has travelled to over 14 countries to unite people affected with leprosy and call for a just change. She told us that she has worked with the government at all levels (district, state and national) and is trying to improve the health and development responses for people affected by leprosy. (To be contd)


BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to unfreeze its funds blocked in Qatar and Iraq, said the country's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, Trend reports.

Speaking today at a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei explained that the restrictions on Iran's foreign currency reserves are a result of the US sanctions.

Baghaei stated that Iran's Foreign Ministry, with the cooperation of the Central Bank and economic entities, has sought to resolve the issue in coordination with other countries and is keeping the issue on the agenda.

The US imposed new sanctions on Iran in November 2018 due to the country's nuclear program. Over the past period, sanctions have targeted Iran's oil exports, over 700 banks, companies, and individuals, leading to the freezing of Iran's assets in several countries.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Following Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees instructions, Trinamul Congress (TMC) leaders, including MP and MLAs, have begun scrutinising electoral rolls in their respective areas in Cooch Behar. In the process, at least five individuals, who now reside in Bangladesh, were found to be still listed as voters. Acting on Miss Banerjees directive, TMC district president Abhijit Dey Bhowmik convened a meeting and initiated the verification process of the voter list.

Cooch Behar MP Jagadish Chandra Barma Basunia and Dinhata MLA Udayan Guho, who also serves as the Minister for North Bengal Development, are actively involved in the scrutiny. Another meeting is expected soon to assess the situation and determine the next course of action. Blaming the Border Security Force (BSF) for its failure to prevent such irregularities, Minister Udayan Guho questioned how these Bangladeshis remained on the voter rolls. In contrast, Sitalkuchi BJP MLA Baren Chandra Barman accused the TMC-led state government of deliberately including ghost voters for electoral gains. Meanwhile, MP Mr Basunia and Minister Mr Guho personally inspected voter lists in Sitai and Dinhata, respectively.

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With the controversy gaining momentum, all political parties have now demanded the deletion of these names at the block level. Opposition leaders further alleged that similar irregularities exist in polling stations across multiple Assembly segments, with the presence of ghost voters being a widespread issue. The issue first came to light in Nalgram, located in the Sitalkuchi block of Cooch Behar, where five Bangladeshi nationalsNazir Hossain, Nazira Bibi, Safiqul Islam, Sohel Rana Mia, and Rahul Amin Miawere found to be listed as voters.

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These individuals were once permanent residents of Nalgram but migrated to Bangladesh, where they now reside with their families. Shockingly, many local villagers claim they do not even recognise these names, raising further questions about the integrity of the voter list. In a separate but related incident, TMC leader Kamalesh Adhikari discovered over 20 EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) numbers in Mukuldanga Baro Sholmari, under Mathabhanga Block II, that were linked to electoral rolls in Uttar Pradesh. One voter, Dakhil Barman, shared his shock: When I checked my EPIC number, I found that it was also assigned to a person named Chamanlal in Uttar Pradesh. Similar discrepancies were reported by others, with more than 20 EPIC numbers linked to voters in UP.

TMC youth leader Kamalesh Adhikari has decided to report the matter to the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Mathabhanga, urging an immediate inquiry into these irregularities. As the controversy intensifies, the discovery of ghost voters and cross-state electoral linkages has only deepened the political tension in the region, with parties bracing for further confrontations over voter list irregularities.
Ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, three-time West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees allegation on the addition of names of bogus voters to the state electoral roll may have been refuted by the Election Commission of India, but the controversy is unlikely to end just yet.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the ECI countered CM Banerjee and clarified that duplication in EPIC number does not imply duplicate/fake voters while acknowledging some cases of duplicate EPIC numbers caused by the use of identical alphanumeric series by two different States/UTs.

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While the BJP described the ECI response as a setback to CM Banerjee, the Trinamool supremo showed little signs of retreating from her combative stand against the electoral panel.

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Trinamool chief Banerjees allegations are no different from the reactions of other INDIA bloc parties that were defeated by the BJP in recent Assembly elections, including Haryana, Maharashtra and Delhi.

The timing of CM Banerjees anti-ECI tirade  almost one year before the Assembly election and immediately after ally AAPs loss in Delhi elections  appears aimed at energising party cadre involved in a drive for physical verification of electoral rolls.

The BJP has countered CM Banerjees combative posturing by accusing her of resorting to misinformation to lay the groundwork for her imminent defeat in 2026 and weaken voters confidence in the electoral system.

In a counter-offensive, BJP co-incharge of West Bengal Amit Malviya accused the ruling Trinamool Congress of including names of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya settlers in the electoral rolls.

We demand that @ECISVEEP prioritise a voter roll cleanup in West Bengal and remove illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya settlers, whom the TMC has placed across the state as Mamata Banerjees vote bank. The ECI must also thwart TMCs attempts to eliminate the names of linguistic minorities and Hindu refugees  including the Matua community, who fled religious persecution and settled in Bengal  from the voter roll, said Malviya in a post on social media.

His comments were a virtual endorsement of similar allegations made by former West Bengal Congress chief and the former Lok Sabha member Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury who accused Trinamool Congress of enlisting several lakhs of bogus voters in the state with the help of a private agency.

The raging debate over alleged bogus voters was intensified last week by CM Banerjee when she alleged that the BJP, with the help of two private agencies, was enlisting voters from other states like Haryana, Gujarat, Bihar, Punjab, and Rajasthan as voters in West Bengal.

Addressing party workers, the 70-year Trinamool chief said, They are linking the names of voters from other states with the EPIC number of voters in West Bengal. Similar misappropriations were made before the elections in states like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Haryana, which helped the BJP to win there.

The other parties there were unable to detect the trick. But we in Bengal have been able to identify the trick well in advance and hence we will never allow the plot to be successful here, the Chief Minister said.

Banerjees allegations on the addition of names of bogus voters to electoral rolls come close to similar remarks by her INDIA bloc partners like AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, whose party lost the recent Delhi Assembly election last month.

Last month, Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi accused the ECI of not sharing the electoral rolls for the Lok Sabha election 2024 and the voter list for the Maharashtra Assembly elections last year, raising suspicion of the addition of bogus voters to benefit the BJP and its allies.

Raising doubts about alleged bungling in the voter list for the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly election which was won by the BJP-led Mahayuti, LoP Gandhi alleged that as many as 39 lakh voters were added to the voters list after the Lok Sabha elections in 2024, just six months before the Maharashtra Assembly elections in November 2024.

On Sunday, cautioning against a threat to the demographic sanctity of Bharat, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar hit out at sudden demographic changes in certain pockets that invariably influence poll outcomes.

Delivering the fourth P. Parameswaran Memorial Lecture on the theme Democracy, Demography, Development and the Future of Bharat in Thiruvananthapuram, the former Governor of West Bengal said, We have fortresses in the country that have emerged in the last few years, where the outcome of the election is always foreclosed by democratic, demographic dislocations.

He said, Policy interventions alone are not sufficient to address these daunting challenges. We have to recognise these challenges as existential to our nationalism and also to our democracy.

Over 7.5 crore voters in West Bengal are likely to pick 294 new legislators around April-May next year. In the 2021 Assembly polls, the TMC won 215 seats in the House with 148 as the majority mark.

Anti-incumbency, allegations of corruption and job scams, allegations of sexual assault on many women of Sandeshkhali and the public outrage over a doctors rape and murder in a Kolkata government hospital are some of the factors that political analysts expect to be raised by the Opposition parties in the 2026 Assembly election in the state.
In a major step toward enhancing regional connectivity, Indian Railways has proposed a new railway line connecting Kokrajhar in Assam to Gelephu in Bhutan. This cross-border project, announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw at the Advantage Assam 2.0 Investment and Infrastructure Summit in Guwahati on 25 February 2025, aligns with Indias Act East and Neighborhood First policies.

The 69.04 km railway line, estimated to cost 3,500 crore, will link Kokrajhar station with Gelephu in Bhutan. It will include six new stations: Balajan, Garubhasa, Runikhata, Shantipur, Dadgiri, and Gelephu. This will be Bhutans first-ever railway link, expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchange while positioning Bodoland as a key trade and transit hub.

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This initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening connectivity with neighbouring countries, said NFR CPRO KK Sharma. He added that the Final Location Survey (FLS) has been completed, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been submitted for approval. The project will feature two important bridges, 29 major bridges, 65 minor bridges, one Road Over Bridge, 39 Road Under Bridges, and two viaducts spanning 11 meters.

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Once operational, the AssamBhutan railway corridor is expected to drive economic growth, improve transport efficiency, and strengthen bilateral relations between India and Bhutan.
The Gauhati High Court on Monday granted bail to Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM), in a case linked to alleged irregularities during the CBSE Class 12 Physics examination.

However, his bail plea in a separate case is scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday.

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On February 21, Assam Police arrested Hoque following a complaint in Patharkandi, Sribhumi, which accused him of orchestrating a scheme to facilitate unfair means in the examination. The complaint alleged that Hoque received payment to ensure undue advantages for students appearing for the test at Kendriya Vidyalaya in Sribhumi, Karimganj district.

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Subsequently, he was presented before the Chief Judicial Magistrates Court in Sribhumi on February 24. Before the court proceedings, he was taken from Karimganj Sadar Police Station to Karimganj Civil Hospital for a routine medical examination.

On February 25, Hoque, along with five othersHiramani Saikia, Bijoy Dutta, Rezzak Ali, Numaan Ahmed, and Imdadur Rahmanwas remanded to four days of police custody. Upon completing the remand period, authorities produced them before the court on Sunday at around 5 PM. Earlier in the day, Hoque and co-accused Numaan Ahmed were transferred from Dispur Police Station to Karimganj Police Station.

Since Sribhumi Police did not seek an extension of custody, the court ordered Hoques transfer to judicial custody.

The investigation revolves around claims that a financial deal was struck to assist students from the ERD Group, who accounted for a majority of examinees at the center. A total of 274 students appeared for the Physics exam at Kendriya Vidyalaya, including 45 from the host school and 214 from the ERD Group.

Reports suggest that the situation turned chaotic when the promised assistance failed to materialise, leading to complaints that prompted police action. Assam Polices Special Task Force (STF) launched an inquiry, uncovering suspected misconduct linked to the institution.
The USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier arrived at a key naval base in the southeastern city of Busan on Sunday, South Koreas Navy said, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to extended deterrence against continued North Korean threats.

The nuclear-powered vessel of Carrier Strike Group 1 entered the naval base in Busan, about 320 kilometers southeast of Seoul, in what marked the first such visit by a U.S. aircraft carrier to South Korea since U.S. President Donald Trumps return to the White House in January, reports Yonhap news agency.

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It was also accompanied by the guided missile cruiser USS Princeton and Aegis-equipped destroyer USS Sterett, according to the Souths Navy.

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The Navy described the visit as part of efforts to implement an ironclad U.S. extended deterrence pledge, which Washington recently reaffirmed, and display the robust South Korea-U.S. combined defence posture against persistent North Korean threats.

The allies will seek to bolster their interoperability and hold friendly activities between their naval forces on the occasion of the visit, it added.

Our military will powerfully retaliate against any North Korean threat, and the South Korea-U.S. alliance will support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula and in the region through close cooperation, Rear Adm. Lee Nam-gyu, director of the maritime operation center at the ROK Fleet, was quoted as saying.

ROK stands for the Republic of Korea, the official name for South Korea.

The Carl Vinsons carrier strike group operations demonstrate our commitment to bolster the defense of allies and partners, and strengthen our ability to fight tonight and win.' Brunson was quoted as saying as he observed flight operations aboard the flight carrier the previous day.

This visit, especially when coupled with realistic all domain, joint and combined training, increases interoperability and ensures we build the readiness posture to deter aggression and maintain stability in the Republic of Korea and the region, the USFK commander said.

The USS Carl Vinson last visited South Korea in November 2023, just hours before North Korea successfully placed its first military spy satellite into orbit after two failed attempts.

The latest visit comes about eight months after the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier visited Busan to take part in the inaugural Freedom Edge multidomain exercise conducted among South Korea, the U.S. and Japan in June last year.
In the latest addition to the ongoing war of words over the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) audit report on healthcare; AAP leader Gopal Rai claimed on Monday that the report validates that the healthcare infrastructure of Delhi under AAPs tenure in government is best in the country.

During a discussion on the report in Delhi Assembly, Rai stated that the AAP government took significant steps to provide quality healthcare to Delhiites, introducing Mohalla Clinics for the first time in the country. The first part discusses the positive impact of healthcare services in the NCR on the people of Delhi. The second highlights how vacancies in various hospitals were not filled, which affected the availability of healthcare services for Delhis residents. The third covers the status of the expansion of new hospitals and beds in Delhi up to the year 2022, he stated.

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Rai added that several state governments have been in power for decades in other states, Delhis public healthcare system still ranks highest in the country and It was due to this commitment that Indias first Mohalla Clinics were established in Delhi.

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On the issue of recruitment shortage as highlighted in the report, Rai said, The government struggled to recruit even a single data entry operator for hospitals due to the Centres interference.

Meanwhile, MLA Sanjeev Jha criticized the BJPs governance model, noting that in Gujarat, the CAG report had not been presented for four consecutive years. If withholding the report is a crime, then the same crime was committed in Gujarat. The CAG report clearly exposes that Delhis healthcare system was the best in India.

The AAP MLA claimed that the party studied the CAG reports and healthcare indicators from 21 states that Delhi was the only state that met 22 out of 24 health indicators. In contrast, no other states healthcare system met even 50 percent of these indicators. Jha asserted that the CAG report serves as solid proof that Arvind Kejriwals government provided the best healthcare services.

Additionally, MLA Ajay Dutt also emphasized that the CAG report explicitly ranks Delhis healthcare system as the best in India. The report revealed that thousands of recruitment requests were blocked as part of a conspiracy to undermine Mohalla Clinics and hospitals. The BJP government, through the Centre and LG, deliberately prevented the appointment of doctors, halted blood test funds, and even withheld salaries of medical staff, he said.
Actor John Abraham, who is gearing up for his upcoming movie The Diplomat, has a keen interest in geo-politics. In fact, its his interest in geo-politics that drew him to this film. However, an unchecked interest could easily turn into obsession which can later induce anxiety and mess-up the cortisol and adrenaline levels in the body.

John has himself admitted that at times he gets geo-political anxiety similar to how people have environmental anxiety. Well, its not particularly a good thing for someone like John, who has insane fitness levels.

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The actor spoke with IANS ahead of the films release, and shared which geo-political development has caught his fancy, of late.

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John told IANS, I am following whats happening between Israel and Hamas, and also the Russia-Ukraine war, I am just cued in on that. I feel Jerusalem is at the centre of every conflict in the world today. The whole conflict between East and West Jerusalem, the wall, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the Wailing Wall or the Western Wall, the history from 1947, the Abraham Accord, the Balfour Accord and everything, that has led to whats happening across the world today.

The actor also feels that having geo-political knowledge makes a person more aware, and enhances their ability to create an informed opinion honing their decision making capabilities.

He said, When you have that kind of geopolitical knowledge at the back of your head, like even my character in The Diplomat, if he has it at the back of his head, sometimes you dont say it. But your audience knows that this guy knows his stuff. So, thats very important.

Recently, Israel conducted air-strikes in Damascus, Syria. Talking about the bombings in Damascus, John said, Just when Damascus was coming, a little into shape! Whats gone wrong? I have got this geo-political anxiety, you know how people have environmental anxiety, I have got geo-political anxiety. Whats happening with the world.
Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavis romantic drama Thandel is ready to make its way to OTT after a successful theatrical run.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from both critics and audiences, the film became a box-office hit, crossing 100 crores worldwide. Fans who missed watching it in theatres can now catch it online as Netflix has announced its streaming release date.

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On Sunday, the OTT platform surprised fans by unveiling a poster featuring the lead pair, confirming that Thandel will be available from March 7, 2025, in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam. The announcement came with the caption: A journey across borders, a story beyond limits. Watch Thandel, out 7 March on Netflix!

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View this post on Instagram A post shared by Netflix India (@netflix_in)

Directed by Chandoo Mondeti and produced by Bunny Vasu under Geetha Arts, Thandel draws inspiration from a real-life incident from 2018. The story follows fishermen from Srikakulam who accidentally crossed into Pakistani waters while on a fishing trip near Gujarat.

The films plot centers around Raju, played by Naga Chaitanya, a fisherman deeply in love with Satya, portrayed by Sai Pallavi. Satya urges Raju to leave behind his dangerous profession and seek a more secure job.

However, Raju chooses to continue fishing, leading to a heartbreaking turn of events when Pakistani authorities arrest him. The narrative unfolds as the couple fights against all odds to reunite.

Originally slated for a Sankranthi 2025 release, the film was postponed and finally premiered in theatres on February 7, 2025. While the performances, visuals, and music received praise, the films narration faced criticism.

Nevertheless, Thandel struck a chord with audiences, becoming the fourth highest-grossing Telugu film of the year and the eighth highest-grossing Indian film of 2025.

With no official announcements on Naga Chaitanyas next project, Sai Pallavi is ready to appear in Nitesh Tiwaris highly anticipated mythological film Ramayana. She will play the role of Sita alongside Ranbir Kapoor, who will portray Lord Ram. The film also stars Ravi Dubey and Sunny Deol, and is likely to release in two parts.
Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal emphasised the critical role of women in nation-building, stating that a mothers lap is the worlds best institution of learning, while addressing the Central Foundation Day of the All-Assam Sonowal Kachari Womens Association (AASKWA) in Dibrugarh.

Speaking at the event, he praised the governments commitment to womens empowerment, saying, Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi jis leadership, the empowerment of women has paved the way for a prosperous and self-reliant society and nation.

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Citing the Rigveda, the minister stressed that women have historically played a fundamental role in shaping a progressive and holistic society. A mother inspires her children to acquire knowledge and guides them with courage. Without effort and perseverance, it is impossible to realise ones full potential, he said.

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Mr Sonowal further underlined the importance of balancing technological advancement with humanity, stating, Progress is essential, but without humanity, it remains incomplete. We must prioritize human values to overcome the challenges before us.

He highlighted the need for the Sonowal Kachari community to excel through skill, resilience, and dedication. There are no shortcuts to success. Every achievement comes through competition and challenges. Assams various ethnic groups must advance through education, culture, and sports. It is our responsibility to uplift the Sonowal Kachari community through action, not just words, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal said.

Calling for women to take the lead in driving change, Mr Sonowal urged the community to embrace hard work and perseverance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi sets an example by working nearly 18 hours a day with unmatched dedication. We must all emulate his commitment for the greater good of the nation.

He reiterated the governments continuous efforts over the past decade to empower women. Millions of women in India have become self-reliant and are contributing significantly to national progress and economic growth. By 2047, we aim to build a self-reliant and developed India, and I call upon the women of this community to take a leading role in this mission. A strong and empowered womens force translates to accelerated national growth and prosperity.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Iran is in favor of continuing dialogue with three European countries (the UK, France, and Germany), said the country's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, Trend reports.

Speaking today during a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei mentioned that if negotiations between Iran and the three European countries are ongoing, it indicates that all parties are hopeful they will reach a resolution.

The spokesperson added that Iran is determined to work towards a positive outcome through continued dialogue.

The Iranian official further pointed out that the next round of deputy foreign minister-level talks between Iran and the three European nations recently took place in Geneva. The parties decided to carry on with the negotiations, and discussions are now taking place to decide when to hold the next session.

To recall, on January 16, 2016, the JCPOA came into force between Iran and the P5+1 group (US, Russia, China, the UK, France, and Germany) regarding Irans nuclear program. However, on May 8, 2018, the US withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the 5+1 group (Russia, China, the UK, France, the US, and Germany) and imposed new sanctions on Iran starting from November 2018.

By the end of 2020, the Iranian parliament decided to pursue a strategic plan in the nuclear sector to counter the sanctions, leading to a suspension of additional steps and the Additional Protocol as per the nuclear agreement.

Consequently, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) faced a reduction in monitoring capabilities by 2030 percent.

Iran has officially affirmed that its strategy is not to pursue the development of an atomic bomb and that it does not support the production of weapons of mass destruction.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, on Monday, complained against Andhra Pradesh for drawing more than its allocated share of water from the Krishna River to Union Jal Shakti minister CR Patil.

He said that the neighbouring state had designed the interlinking of rivers through the Godavari-Banakacherla Project without seeking statutory approvals.

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The chief minister, who was accompanied by Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy, also demanded that Telangana should be allocated more water from Krishna since nearly 70 per cent of the river flows through the state. He also urged the Union minister to approve pending irrigation projects from Telangana and provide the required funds.

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The chief minister flew to New Delhi on Monday to meet Union Jal Shakti minister CR Patil along with officials, and held a prolonged meeting to explain the states water woes. He urged Patil to allocate a fair share of Krishna River water to Telangana. He requested the Union minister to allocate 70 per cent of the river water to the state because nearly 70 per cent of the river flows through Telangana. However, the Krishna River Board Management (KRMB) allocated 66 per cent to AP and the rest to Telangana, complained the chief minister while accusing the boards chairman of failing to be impartial.

He said telemetry machines should be installed for projects on Krishna the cost of which Telangana was ready to bear. He urged the Union minister to take a call on APs projects only after allocating water to the upper riparian state.

Reddy also complained about the delay in granting approval for irrigation projects for Telangana, including Palmuru Ranga Reddy Lift Irrigation Project, Sitarama Lift Irrigation project and Sammaka Sagar barrages. He said the AP government has not obtained clearances from Central Water Commission, Godavari River Management Board and Krishna River Management Board for its upcoming Godavari-Banakacherla Lift Irrigation project. The project was mentioned in the AP Budget speech but no funds were allocated to it by the state government.

We also raised the issues about Telanganas pending projects and that Andhra Pradesh is taking away our share of Krishna River water, and Telangana farmers are suffering because of it. Many projects are pending with the Government of India and the Ministry of Jal Shakti, said Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy after the meeting concluded.
The Bombay High Court (HC) directed the states anti-corruption bureau (ACB) on Monday against acting on the order of the ACB special court, which had ordered the filing of an FIR against former Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chairperson Madhabi Puri Buch, three current whole-time members of the SEBI, as well as two officials of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

The court acted after Buch, along with three whole-time SEBI directors Ashwani Bhatia, Ananth Narayan G, and Kamlesh Chandra Varshney, as well as two senior BSE officials, Pramod Agarwal and Sundararaman Ramamurthy, approached it, seeking to quash a special ACB courts order directing the police to register an FIR against them about an alleged fraudulent stock listing.

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The matter was mentioned for urgent hearing in the HC on Monday before a single-judge bench of Justice S G Dige. The case will now be heard on Tuesday, March 4, until when the ACB has been directed not to file any FIR against the accused officials.

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The matter pertains to alleged irregularities in granting listing permission to a company called Cals Refineries Ltd on the BSE in 1994. The charges relate to the fraudulent listing of Cals Refineries Ltd in 1994, allegedly involving SEBI officials, without adhering to compliance requirements under the SEBI Act, 1992. The complainant had alleged that SEBI officials neglected their statutory duty, facilitated market manipulation, and enabled corporate fraud by allowing the listing of a company which did not meet regulatory norms.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta represented Buch and the SEBI officials, while senior advocate Amit Desai appeared on behalf of BSEs former chairman Pramod Agarwal as well as BSE managing director and chief executive officer Sundararaman Ramamurthy.

The ACB court in Worli, Mumbai, had issued the order after an application made by litigant Sapan Shrivastava, a journalist from Dombivli in Thane district, which alleged fraudulent listing of Cals Refineries on the BSE with the active connivance of SEBI officials. Shrivastava had sought an FIR registration and an investigation into alleged large-scale financial fraud, regulatory violations, and corruption.

In a detailed order dated March 1, special ACB court judge Shashikant Eknathrao Bangar stated, The allegations disclose a cognisable offence, necessitating an investigation. There is prima facie evidence of regulatory lapses and collusion, requiring a fair and impartial probe. The inaction by law enforcement and SEBI necessitates judicial intervention under Section 156(3) Criminal Procedure Code.

Incidentally, the ACB court had issued its order to file an FIR just two days after Buch completed her tenure as SEBI chairperson.

After the ACB Court order, the SEBI issued a statement on Sunday that the officials were not holding their respective positions at the time and that the court had allowed the application without issuing any notice or granting SEBI an opportunity to place the facts on record.

The SEBIs statement supported Buch, calling the complainant Sapan Shrivastava a frivolous and habitual litigant, alleging that his previous applications had been dismissed by the court, with costs imposed in some cases.

The SEBI also stated that it would initiate legal proceedings to challenge the order, asserting that it remains committed to ensuring due regulatory compliance in all matters.
In a major push to boost tourism in Tripura, the central government has allocated an additional Rs 150 crore for the development of tourism infrastructure in the state, Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury said on Monday.

Chowdhury, accompanied by senior officials from the states Tourism Department, submitted a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to the Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Shekhawat outlining the ongoing initiatives and future plans for enhancing Tripuras tourism potential.

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Tripura Tourism is getting another Rs 150 crore from the Central government for the development of tourism in the state. Today, in New Delhi, I met the Union Cabinet Minister for Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and briefed him on the progress of our tourism initiatives, he stated.

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The Union Minister assured full cooperation and support to the state in implementing its tourism development plans.

The Secretary and Director of the Tourism Department were also present during the meeting. The central governments commitment to boosting tourism in Tripura will significantly help in upgrading infrastructure, improving connectivity, and enhancing the overall tourist experience, Chowdhury added.

Tripura, a state rich in cultural heritage, ancient temples, and natural beauty, has been focusing on promoting eco-tourism, heritage tourism, and adventure tourism to attract domestic and international visitors.

Key tourism sites include the UNESCO-recognized Neermahal, the historical Ujjayanta Palace, Unakotis rock-cut sculptures, and the scenic Jampui Hills. The states tourism department has been working on improving road connectivity, setting up eco-tourism hubs, and developing adventure tourism activities.

The state government has been actively seeking investments to promote tourism, and the additional funding from the Centre is expected to accelerate various projects, including the beautification of key tourist spots, the establishment of homestays in rural areas, and the development of modern amenities at heritage sites.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has declared the state a land of vast opportunities for entrepreneurs, citing its rich natural resources, surplus power production, and investor-friendly policies as key drivers for industrial growth.

The announcement came on Sunday during a high-profile meeting with representatives from the pharmaceutical, real estate, and IT sectors at his official residence in Raipur, signaling the states aggressive push to position itself as a hub for innovation and economic diversification.

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Highlighting the newly launched Industrial Development Policy 2024-30, CM Sai emphasised streamlined processes such as an online application system, fast-tracked approvals, and the upgraded Single Window 2.0 portal designed to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles. Our policies are transparent, clear, and crafted to make Chhattisgarh the most investor-friendly state in India, he said. The policy aims to attract domestic and global businesses by offering a simplified regulatory framework and robust infrastructure support.

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In a significant milestone, the state has secured investment proposals worth Rs1.23 lakh crore since the policys implementation, with first-time interest from semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), and data center industries. This marks Chhattisgarhs entry into cutting-edge sectors that will define Indias industrial future, Sai stated. Traditional sectors like pharmaceuticals, IT, and real estate also saw heightened interest, with the government actively promoting robotics and renewable energy projects.

To support this growth, the government announced the development of new industrial parks equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. These parks aim to provide entrepreneurs with seamless access to resources, utilities, and logistics networks. Our goal is to create an ecosystem where industries thrive, generating employment and fostering innovation, said Industry Secretary Rajat Kumar.

The meeting saw participation from prominent business figures, including Gaurav Chauhan of Mankind Pharma, Vikaas Khdloya (CEO, Embassy REIT), Shradha Sharma (Founder, YourStory), and Rohit Kashyap (Founder, Maytree School of Entrepreneurship). CM Sai assured attendees of the governments full support, stating, We are committed to handholding investors at every step from land acquisition to operational launch. Principal Secretary Subodh Singh added, Chhattisgarhs surplus power, mineral wealth, and skilled workforce give us a competitive edge. We are poised to become a model for balanced industrial-ecological growth.

The Chief Minister reiterated his vision to transform Chhattisgarh into a beacon of economic prosperity while ensuring sustainable use of its forests and minerals. With a focus on job creation and technological advancement, the state aims to leverage its resource advantages to attract global supply chains and startups.
Former councillor Hakim Qureshi, an accused in the infamous Bijaynagar blackmail case, was assaulted by lawyers in the court premises here on Monday.

Following the expiry of his police remand, Qureshi was brought from Bijaynagar to appear before the special POCSO court. The court ordered his judicial custody, remanding him to jail.

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However, as he was being escorted out, a large group of lawyers gathered in the premises chased and physically assaulted him.

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Police personnel faced significant difficulty in safely escorting him away, official sources reported.

Meanwhile, Srinagar town in Ajmer district observed a bandh, demanding strict action against those involved in the case.

So far, 12 accused have been arrested, with police indicating the possibility of further arrests.
Ultra-modern mist blowers and mini fogging machines were successfully used at the Mahakumbh, providing significant relief from mosquitoes and flies to sants and devotees.

Encouraged by this success, the Uttar Pradesh government now plans to deploy these advanced machines across the state for the first time, aiming to make the state insect-free.

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As part of the plan, the state government will hand over 107 ultra-modern mist blowers to municipal corporations and 110 mini-fogging machines to the Health department. These machines, proven effective in keeping the Akharas insect-free, will be crucial in controlling diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and malaria. These automatic machines can be brought to affected areas within 30 minutes of a call, ensuring prompt and efficient action.

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Dr VP Singh, Nodal Joint Director (Vector Control) for Mahakumbh, announced here on Monday that 107 blower mist machines will be handed over to municipal corporations across Uttar Pradesh. These machines will effectively spray pesticides on garbage and unhygienic areas.

Additionally, 110 mini-fogging machines will be provided to the Health Department to combat diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya effectively. These machines will also be extensively used in flood-affected regions to support cleanliness and vector control efforts.

Dr. Anand Kumar Singh, Assistant Nodal and DMO of Vector Control, highlighted that the automatic blower mist machines used at Mahakumbh could be brought to any location within 30 minutes of a call. Inspired by this success, mobile vector control units will now be operational throughout the state to enable immediate fogging and mist spraying in areas facing mosquito infestations or outbreaks.

Acting on special instructions from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, a comprehensive service is being launched to protect the public from mosquitoes and flies. Residents will benefit from prompt fogging and pesticide spraying services in affected areas.

During the Mahakumbh, petrol-powered blower mist machines were used on a large scale for spraying. These machines will now be allocated to municipal corporations to ensure effective pesticide application, particularly in flood-prone areas with a higher risk of mosquito breeding and dirt accumulation.

In cases of dengue or malaria, spraying will be carried out at the patients residence and in 50 surrounding houses as part of the vector control strategy. Mini fogging machines will play a vital role in this campaign, helping to efficiently control mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and chikungunya.

Following the successful deployment at Mahakumbh, the Uttar Pradesh government is set to implement this advanced technology statewide. This initiative aims to significantly reduce diseases caused by mosquitoes and flies, marking a major step towards making the state cleaner and healthier.
The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India (ICMAI) organised a two-day symposium here to discuss and assess its contributions in the nations progress and development.

The event focused on Prime Minister Narendra Modis Developed India 2047 vision.

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A large number of young professionals, bureaucrats, and ICMAI students attended the symposium titled as Adaptation in a Changing Landscape  My Viksit Bharat 2047, which was held at the ICAR convention centre.

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Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Faggan Singh Kulaste, Bansuri Swaraj, both Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries attended the symposium on the first day of the symposium on Friday.

The event was organised by the Northern India Regional Council of The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India.

Addressing the symposium, Birla said, Institutions like ICMAI plays an important role in the countrys progress as they help in enhancing the investment opportunities in the Indian economy. To attract economic investments, our financial laws require stability along with necessary reforms in response to changing global scenarios. Because of our financial reforms, Indias growing economic strength is evident worldwide.

On the occasion, Chairman and Convenor of the Northern India Regional Council of ICMAI, Santosh Pant said, ICMAI is fully committed to support Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision for a developed India. Our 65 years of expertise in cost accountancy will significantly contribute to our countrys progress and we will continue to play an active role to achieve this goal.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will leave here on Tuesday on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland from 04 -09 March.

India and the UK share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has strengthened across diverse areas including defence and security, trade and economy, health, education, and people-to-people ties.

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During the visit, Mr Jaishankar will be holding discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Secretary David Lammy and meet several other dignitaries as well as Indian community members, the Ministry of External Affairs said today.

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India and Ireland share friendly bilateral relations based on shared democratic values, cultural ties and growing economic engagements.

EAM will be meeting with his Irish counterpart, Simon Harris, other dignitaries and members of the Indian community, during his visit to Ireland on 06-07 March.

Mr Jaishankars visit will provide renewed impetus to Indias friendly ties with both the UK and Ireland, the MEA added.
The Jharkhand governments Abua Budget 2025-26 has sparked discussion, with the ruling party calling it progressive while the opposition criticises it as lacking vision and filled with election promises.

Key highlights include a focus on education, employment, pensions, agriculture, and industry, with a total outlay of 1,45,400 crore. The business community has given mixed reactions, welcoming investment targets but calling for better implementation.

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Youths have expressed disappointment over the lack of concrete job measures. While the government claims the budget will strengthen Jharkhands economy, its success will depend on effective execution in the coming months.

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BJP state president and former chief minister Babulal Marandi described the budget as ambitious in size but lacking substance. He argued that it did not present a clear strategy for tackling unemployment or poverty and accused the government of failing to fulfill its pre-election commitments.

Hazaribagh MP Manish Jaiswal also expressed disappointment, calling the budget misleading and directionless. He pointed out that the government had promised to create one million jobs, yet the budget did not address this issue. He further criticised the lack of industrial investment and the absence of major new projects for the state.

Concerns were also raised regarding welfare schemes for women, farmers, and pensioners. Jaiswal questioned the effectiveness of the governments Maiyan Samman Yojana, suggesting that many women might not benefit from it. He also noted that while the government had earlier pledged to increase pensions for widows, the elderly, and the disabled to 2,500, the budget did not include a clear provision for this.

Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) general secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya, however, defended the budget, calling it forward-looking and inclusive. He described it as a roadmap for Jharkhands development, focusing on education, employment, healthcare, agriculture, social security, and industrial growth. He dismissed the oppositions concerns, saying the budget laid the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous state.

Key highlights of the budget include the launch of the Student Research and Innovation Policy 2025 to promote higher education, support for MSMEs and tourism as key industries, and the revival of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) with the creation of a pension fund. The budget also focuses on seed conservation and better agricultural management. With a total outlay of 1,45,400 crore, the government has prioritised development and public welfare.

The business community has responded with both optimism and caution. Paresh Gattani, president of the Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industries, welcomed the governments intent to address industrial concerns but emphasised the need for a more efficient single-window clearance system.

He also appreciated the governments 20,000 crore investment target. Meanwhile, chamber general secretary Aditya Malhotra praised the focus on infrastructure and tourism but said additional efforts were needed to strengthen industrial growth.

Many young people, however, expressed disappointment over the lack of concrete measures for job creation. Ranjan Chaudhary, a youth from Hazaribagh, shared that he had hoped for a strong employment policy but found the budget lacking in this area. He added that without better opportunities in Jharkhand, many young people might have to consider moving to other states for work.

While the government remains confident that this budget will make Jharkhand more self-reliant and economically strong, the opposition has questioned its effectiveness. The business community has taken a balanced view, acknowledging both its potential and its challenges. The real test will be in the implementation, and time will tell how this budget shapes Jharkhands economy and impacts its people.
After relieving him of all party positions, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati on Monday expelled her nephew and political successor, Akash Anand, from the party.

On Sunday, she had removed Akash from all party posts and announced that she would have no political successor.

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Mayawatis decision followed a lengthy statement Akash Anand posted on social media on Monday morning.

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In her official statement, Mayawati said Akash was relieved from his position as national coordinator in the partys interest, as he was consistently influenced by his father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth.

We thought Akash would now show some maturity, but instead, he has reacted at length, revealing his selfishness, ego, and continued influence from his father-in-law, something I had advised him to avoid, she said.

Therefore, in the interest of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkars self-esteem and self-respect, and to uphold Kanshi Rams tradition of discipline, Akash Anand is expelled from the party, the BSP chief added.

Earlier, Akash Anand responded with a statement of his own, saying, I am a cadre of Mayawati ji, and under her leadership, I have learned unforgettable lessons of sacrifice, loyalty, and dedication. These are not just ideals but my purpose in life. Every decision of Behan ji is final for me, and I respect her decision.

He acknowledged that Mayawatis decision to remove him from all party positions was emotionally difficult for him but emphasized that a bigger challenge now lay ahead.

The exam is tough, and the fight is long. In difficult times, patience and determination are the true companions. As a true worker of the Bahujan Mission and Movement, I will continue to serve the party with full dedication and will fight for my communitys rights until my last breath, he stated.

Akash Anand further asserted that those in opposition who believe his political career is over are mistaken.

The Bahujan Movement is not a career but a fight for the self-respect of crores of Dalits, the exploited, the deprived, and the poor. It is an idea, a movement that cannot be suppressed. Millions of Akash Anands are ready to keep this torch burning and sacrifice everything for it, he declared.
Fueled by the upgraded visa-free policy, "China Travel" went viral online, a trending social media hashtag with over 1 billion views as travelers shared their experiences in China. by Xinhua writer Chen Wangqi BEIJING, March 2 (Xinhua) -- As China moves forward with an unprecedented expansion of its unilateral visa-free policy, some Western media have rushed to downplay the significance of this effort for greater global openness. In a recent report, Bloomberg called the visa-free policy a bid "falling flat" and "well short of the near full recovery Beijing would have been hoping for." However, a closer look at China's latest efforts to advance its opening-up strategy reveals a different picture. For more than a year, Beijing has expanded the policy to 38 countries, accommodating more entry purposes and extending the permitted stay to 30 days. And far from falling short, the unilateral visa-free policy has proven successful and stands as a key testament to China's determination to further integrate itself into the global economy. "CHINA TRAVEL" BECOMES NEW TREND Data from China's National Immigration Administration (NIA) showed that cross-border trips made by foreigners surged 82.9 percent from a year ago to 64.88 million in 2024. More than 20 million inbound foreign trips were made visa-free, a year-on-year increase of 112.3 percent. China's comprehensive relaxation of visa requirements effectively pulled tourists to China last year, said Li Jun, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation under the Ministry of Commerce. China's visa exemption policy started in December 2023, when it started piloting its unilateral visa-free policy for France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Malaysia. Now, it allows ordinary passport holders from 38 countries to visit the country for up to 30 days without a visa. Fueled by the upgraded visa-free policy, "China Travel" went viral online, a trending social media hashtag with over 1 billion views as travelers shared their experiences in China. A growing number of international tourists are being drawn to the country's cultural landmarks, natural scenery and city tours. Eva Gajewska, a project manager at CT Poland travel agency, said her office has seen a surge in inquiries since China announced the extension of its visa-free policy to Poland last June. "Many new clients were drawn by the visa-free offer, which made planning their trips much easier," she told Xinhua, adding that their China tour packages have already been booked through April. During the past Spring Festival holiday, China welcomed more than 3.43 million inbound tourists from 175 countries and regions. Meanwhile, estimates by Chinese online travel agency Ctrip showed that the volume of travel bookings from foreign tourists to China grew by 203 percent compared to the same period during last year's Chinese New Year. Over 80 percent of people didn't leave China until the visa deadline was imminent, said Mao Xu, a senior NIA official. Meanwhile, following the introduction of the new visa policy, many tourists have transitioned from first-time visitors to regular revisitors, broadening their travels from major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai to more off-the-beaten-path destinations. "Waking up in a sleeper car and taking in the stunning views of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau was unforgettable," said Belgian tourists Patrick, Luc and Ingrid, reflecting on their journey aboard the tourism train in China's Xizang Autonomous Region. "The more we explore China, the more we're captivated by its allure," they added. "Once you've been, you're eager to come back. We're excited to discover more and deepen our understanding of Chinese culture." LONG-TERM BENEFITS Far from being a "failure," the policy has clearly spurred cross-border economic activity, as shown by the People's Bank of China's latest findings. During the 2024 Chinese New Year holiday, which ran from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4, international tourist transactions saw a dramatic rise. The total number of cross-border transactions processed by China UnionPay and NetsUnion Clearing Corporation increased 124.54 percent, and the total transaction value grew 90.49 percent. Critics in the West often overlook the policy's broader strategic benefits, particularly its role in regional branding and industrial advancement. As noted by Professor Chen Nan of China's Henan University, inbound tourism boosts both upstream and downstream industries, upgrades the market, enhances products and services and fosters innovation. To be more specific, by simplifying the process for inbound tourists, the policy has invigorated interconnected sectors -- from hospitality and retail to logistics and cultural services -- driving innovation, improving service quality, and spurring demand for high-value, localized products. These ripple effects, far from being limited to short-term tourism, are embedding long-term structural upgrades in China's consumption-driven economy. In a sign of further financial opening, China has made mobile payments more accessible to foreigners. Travelers can now link Visa, Mastercard and other major credit cards to local platforms like Alipay and WeChat Pay. Data from the People's Bank of China showed that this year's Chinese New Year holiday saw a significant rise in transactions made by foreign visitors on WeChat, which surged by 134 percent compared to last year's Spring Festival. Meanwhile, spending through Alipay during the first five days of the holiday increased by 150 percent. These figures reflect not only the convenience of mobile payments but also the growing enthusiasm of foreign tourists to purchase Chinese goods and immerse themselves in local culture. Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy, noted that inbound tourism not only boosts consumption in a country's tourism sector but also injects fresh energy into the broader market. Its impact extends to enhancing infrastructure, public services and other key areas, creating a sustained, far-reaching momentum for growth, said Dai. Shao Guanhua, deputy director of the Customs Policy Research Department at the General Administration of Customs, said that by streamlining visa processes, China has signaled an open and inclusive approach to the world. Embracing the world with this openness, China is channeling its own growth to fuel global momentum, Shao said, adding that in doing so, it not only counters the rise of unilateralism but also underscores China's commitment to advancing globalization, offering renewed confidence in the global economic recovery.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Ukraine hopes on US support on path to peace, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy wrote on X, Trend reports.

We continue our work with partners. We have already had talks and other steps to come soon. It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible, he noted.

Zelenskyy pointed out that real peace is needed and Ukrainians want it most.

Because the war ruins our cities and towns. We lose our people. We need to stop the war and to guarantee security.

We are working together with America and our European partners and very much hope on US support on the path to peace. Peace is needed as soon as possible, he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday took a lion safari in Gir National Park in Gujarat on the occasion of World Wildlife Day.

Taking to X, the Prime Minister extended his wishes on World Wildlife Day. He wrote: Today, on World Wildlife Day, lets reiterate our commitment to protect and preserve the incredible biodiversity of our planet. Every species plays a vital role  lets safeguard their future for generations to come! We also take pride in Indias contributions towards preserving and protecting wildlife.

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PM Modi was seen donning a safari outfit and holding a camera to capture glimpses of Girs Asiatic lions. He also shared some pictures taken by him on his X handle. Lions and lionesses in Gir! Tried my hand at some photography this morning, he wrote.

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He wrote: This morning, on #WorldWildlifeDay, I went on a Safari in Gir, which, as we all know, is home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. Coming to Gir also brings back many memories of the work we collectively did when I was serving as Gujarat CM. In the last many years, collective efforts have ensured that the population of Asiatic Lions is rising steadily. Equally commendable is the role of tribal communities and women from surrounding areas in preserving the habitat of the Asiatic Lion.

The Prime Minister shared that over the last decade, the population of tigers, leopards, rhinos have risen too, indicating how deeply we cherish wildlife and are working to build sustainable habitats for animals.

Prime Minister Modi on Sunday made a pilgrimage to the Somnath temple in Gujarats Gir Somnath district, where he prayed at the sacred Shiva shrine, the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The Prime Minister stayed overnight at Sinh Sadan, a forest guest house managed by the state forest department, in Sasan, after arriving from Somnath. There, he visited the Lord Shiva temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, on Sunday evening.

Currently, Asiatic lions inhabit approximately 30,000 square kilometers across 53 talukas in 9 districts of Gujarat. The Prime Minister introduced the concept of Bruhad Gir, expanding the conservation focus beyond Gir National Park and Sanctuary to cover a 30,000 sq. km area from Barda to Botad, where Asiatic lions are found. With the development of Greater Gir, he also ensured the welfare and progress of local communities.
On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Sasangir, a wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat on Monday.

This years theme, Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet, emphasises the importance of sustainable funding and community involvement in conservation efforts.

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During his visit, PM Modi will inaugurate the new veterinary hospital, which is expected to provide critical care for the Asiatic lions. Afterwards, he will return to Singh Sadan to chair a meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), where national wildlife conservation issues will be discussed. The Prime Minister will also interact with women forest staff in Sasan, further promoting gender inclusivity in conservation efforts.

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Gujarat, home to the worlds last population of Asiatic lions, has taken significant strides in the protection and preservation of these majestic creatures and the broader biodiversity of the region.

Currently, Asiatic lions roam across 30,000 square kilometres, covering 53 talukas in nine districts of Gujarat. To further strengthen conservation initiatives, the state government has developed a National Referral Centre for Wildlife across 20.24 hectares in Junagadh. Additionally, a high-tech wildlife monitoring centre and a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital in Sasan have been established to provide advanced care for these endangered animals.

Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi commended the collaborative efforts of the Gujarat Police and the Forest Department in ensuring the safety and growth of lion populations.

In 2024, the state recruited 237-beat guards (162 men and 75 women) to intensify surveillance and improve protection in the Gir Protected Area. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to protect not only the Asiatic lions but also other endangered species in the region.

The states ongoing commitment to wildlife protection is also reflected in the successful launch of the Gir Samvad Setu initiative. Over 300 such programs have been organised to address local community concerns and enhance their engagement in conservation. Additionally, nine breeding centres have been set up to conserve herbivorous species crucial to the Gir ecosystem.
The Uttar Pradesh government has stepped up efforts to address the issue of urban flooding well in advance.

The Urban Development Department has been directed to focus on modern drainage technology, flood prevention measures, and strengthening riverbanks to mitigate waterlogging and flood risks.

As part of this initiative, modern drainage systems are being developed in key municipal corporations, including Lucknow, Mathura, Meerut, Ghaziabad, and Shahjahanpur. To support this effort, the government has allocated Rs 750 crore, which will be utilised for drainage system upgrades, redevelopment of existing drains, and new construction in these cities.

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Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently held a meeting to improve the drainage system and flood control measures in cities. During the discussion, he directed the Urban Development Department and Jal Nigam to strengthen sewage and drainage systems, ensure regular cleaning of drains, promote rainwater harvesting, and set up new pumping stations to prevent waterlogging.

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Officials stated here on Monday that under the Smart City Mission, drainage systems are being modernised to reduce flooding. Special projects are also being implemented in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, and Gorakhpur to tackle urban flooding. In these cities, drainage channels are being digitised for real-time monitoring and quick response in emergencies.

To support these efforts, the CM has released Rs 733 crore for developing the drainage system in Lucknow, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Mathura, and Shahjahanpur. In Lucknow, Rs 193.73 crore has been set aside for the redevelopment of the Qila Mohammadi drain, covering a 10.571 km-long drainage system, benefiting 2.5 lakh people. Additionally, the Geetapalli drain will be diverted with a 4.435 km-long RCC drainage line, costing Rs 112.47 crore, which will benefit 5 lakh people.

In Meerut, Rs 156.79 crore has been allocated for the construction of the Oden drain, covering an 18.33 sq km area and benefiting 4.35 lakh people. Ghaziabad will see the construction of the Shahberi drain, with an investment of Rs 132.65 crore, solving waterlogging issues for 3.9 lakh people.

In Mathura, Rs 89.71 crore will be spent on the Bhuteshwar to Ambakhar drain project, benefiting 75,000 residents. Meanwhile, in Shahjahanpur, Rs 47.75 crore is being invested to improve drainage from Roza Adda to Damah Puliya, ensuring better water management for the city.
Amidst the massive influx of devotees at Mahakumbh, the Uttar Pradesh Police, along with PAC, NDRF, SDRF, and Fire Department personnel, demonstrated exceptional honesty and commitment to duty. Under the special campaign launched on the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, security personnel successfully reunited devotees from 15 countries and over 20 states with their families.

On-duty personnel not only returned lost valuables, including cash worth lakhs, iPhones, jewelry, and other precious items, but also ensured immediate medical assistance by rushing the sick to hospitals and providing first aid.

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Additionally, the Uttar Pradesh Police played a crucial role in assisting a large number of elderly devotees in taking a sacred dip at the Sangam. From administering CPR to offering primary medical care, the forces went beyond their call of duty.

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As a result, the efficiency and responsiveness of the Yogi government have resonated globally, drawing praise from countries including Russia, the United States, and Germany.

Dr Rajiv Narayan Mishra, Inspector General of PAC (Eastern Zone), stated here on Monday that the police personnel risked their lives to assist devotees at Mahakumbh. Their honesty and dedication in ensuring the safety and convenience of pilgrims have now gained recognition worldwide. Even international devotees have praised Chief Minister Adityanath for his effective management of the grand event.
Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva on Monday stated that the budget session of the Delhi Assembly will commence on March 24, as announced by the CM Rekha Gupta, and emphasized that the BJP government is committed to the development of the national capital and has repeatedly stressed the need to bring stalled progress over the past 1011 years back on track with a clear vision.

He expressed satisfaction that the entire government has taken this matter seriously, and has already begun working by planning and holding meetings over the past 78 days with different concerned departments, while he asserted that this budget will be for the people of Delhi.

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Sachdeva further said that since the city has a government of the common people, the budget will be presented only after considering the views of the public, and it will reflect the vision of holistic development for Delhi.

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Talking of the CAG reports recently tabled in the legislative assembly after the BJP government coming into power, Sachdeva alleged that the way the report has exposed corruption cases one after another involving Arvind Kejriwal clearly shows that since 2015, the government in Delhi has only been run for loot and scams.

The BJP leader remarked that the CAG report on health has once again raised several questions about Kejriwal and his associates who are senior leaders in the AAP.

He claimed that wherever Kejriwal has intervened, it has only resulted in plunder.

Sachdeva further criticized AAP leaders for allegedly disrupting proceedings and discussions in the assembly, noting that everyone has seen what has been happening in the assembly for the past 12 years.

He further stated that for the last twelve years, despite repeatedly expelling BJP legislators from the assembly, no meaningful discussions on development took place, and now that discussions for the comprehensive development of Delhi are being held, Sachdeva alleged that opposition legislators are creating obstacles.
Indias ambitious Blue Economy vision is reshaping the way the country engages with its vast marine resources. At the heart of this transformation is Kerala, with the Quilon Fish Bank emerging as a crucial player in sustainable fisheries. However, recent concerns over large scale dredging, resource extraction, and the long-term impact on marine biodiversity have raised important questions about balancing economic growth with ecological stability.

The Quilon Fish Bank, known for its rich biodiversity and high productivity, is among Indias most significant fishing grounds. Spread across Kollam and Alappuzha districts, this region is a vital breeding ground for numerous fish species and shrimp. Keralas fisherfolk have long depended on these waters for their livelihood, making sustainable fisheries management crucial for the states economy and food security. However, recent developments, such as the planned dredging of 242 square kilometers of the seabed in Kollam, have sparked widespread concern. Reports indicate that Indias Geological Survey has identified 7.45 billion tonnes of sand in Keralas coastal and offshore areas. While the government sees this as an opportunity for economic development, local communities fear it may lead to habitat destruction, loss of fish stocks, and increased coastal erosion. The controversial dredging project is part of a larger Blue Economy initiative aimed at tapping into the oceans resources for economic growth. While this approach has potential, questions remain about its long-term sustainability and impact on Keralas delicate marine ecosystem.

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The Blue Economy concept emphasizes responsible and sustainable use of marine resources to drive economic progress. India, with its vast coastline and rich maritime heritage, has identified the Blue Economy as a critical driver of growth in the 21st century. The governments policy framework seeks to integrate economic growth with environmental conservation. While large-scale resource extraction, such as sand mining and deep-sea fishing, forms part of this vision, efforts are also being made to minimize ecological disruption. Scientific research, eco-friendly technologies, and strict regulations are being implemented to ensure sustainability. One of the key objectives of Indias Blue Economy plan is to modernize the fisheries sector.

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Investments in advanced fishing infrastructure, cold storage facilities, and alternative livelihood programmes, such as seaweed farming and mariculture, are providing fishermen with new income opportunities. These initiatives aim to reduce dependence on overfished species and promote a more balanced marine ecosystem. Despite the promising aspects of the Blue Economy, concerns remain about its impact on marine biodiversity. The Quilon Fish Bank is a prime example of this dilemma. Dredging and sand mining, while economically lucrative, have the potential to disrupt fish breeding cycles, alter ocean currents, and increase vulnerability to coastal erosion. The fragile balance of Keralas coastal ecosystem is already under stress due to climate change and unregulated fishing practices. Further extraction of marine resources could push it to a tipping point, endangering not just marine species but also the livelihoods of thousands of fishing families.

Experts warn that Keralas geographical location  between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats  makes it particularly vulnerable to environmental degradation. To address these concerns, the government has been expanding Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to safeguard critical habitats. These conservation zones play a vital role in replenishing fish stocks and maintaining biodiversity.

Additionally, advanced monitoring systems are being introduced to track fish migration patterns and regulate fishing activities, ensuring long-term marine health. Indias approach to the Blue Economy is also being shaped by global collaborations. By aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14 on ocean conservation, India is reinforcing its commitment to responsible marine resource management. Countries like Norway, Japan, and Australia have successfully implemented sustainable fisheries policies that balance economic interests with conservation. Learning from these models can help India refine its own Blue Economy strategy. Keralas government has also taken steps to enhance coastal resilience.

Large-scale coastal protection projects, such as artificial reefs and mangrove restoration, are being undertaken to mitigate the impact of erosion and habitat loss. However, these efforts need stronger support from the Central government to ensure long-term effectiveness. The future of the Quilon Fish Bank and Keralas fisheries sector hinges on finding a middle ground between economic growth and environmental sustainability. While resource extraction and development projects are necessary for progress, they must be undertaken with strict environmental safeguards.

A multistakeholder approach involving the government, local fishing communities, environmentalists, and global experts is essential. Policymakers must prioritize scientific research and ecological impact assessments before approving large scale marine projects. Empowering local communities with alternative livelihood options, enhancing conservation efforts, and enforcing stricter regulations on resource extraction can help ensure a sustainable future for Keralas fisheries.

Indias Blue Economy vision holds immense promise, but its success will ultimately depend on how well it balances development with ecological responsibility. With continued investment in research, conservation, and community welfare, the Quilon Fish Bank can serve as a model for sustainable fisheries, ensuring that Keralas fisherfolk have a bright and resilient future in Indias evolving maritime economy.

(The writer is Associate Professor, Centre for South Asian Studies, Pondicherry Central University.)
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmers visit to Washington was important for transatlantic diplomacy. It was his first official engagement with President Donald Trump, a leader known for his forceful style and unpredictable rhetoric. The meeting highlighted the delicate balancing act Mr Starmer must perform ~ asserting British interests while navigating Mr Trumps transactional approach to international relations. One of the most striking moments came when Mr Starmer handed Mr Trump a letter from King Charles III, inviting him for a second UK state visit. The gesture was diplomatically as tute, signaling Britains intent to maintain strong ties with Washington regardless of political shifts.

It was also a pragmatic move, appealing to Mr Trumps appreciation for personal recognition and grandeur. In an era where soft diplomacy can be just as impactful as policy discussions, this invitation set the tone for a more cordial engagement. However, the meeting also underscored Mr Trumps characteristic dominance in diplomatic settings. He took control of the conversation, setting the agenda and choosing which reporters would ask questions. Mr Starmer, despite his composed demeanor, found himself adjusting to Mr Trumps style rather than leading the discourse. This dynamic is unsurprising, given Mr Trumps preference for positioning himself as the central figure in any interaction.

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Yet, Mr Starmers willingness to engage and his ability to push forward key UK concerns ~ particularly on trade and security ~ showcased his diplomatic resilie  nce. Trade was a focal point, with Mr Starmer attempting to secure assurances that the UK would not face new tariffs under Mr Trumps administration. Mr Trump ackno  w ledged Mr Starmer as a tough negotiator but stopped short of concrete commitments, merely suggesting that a trade deal was possible. This reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding US-UK economic relations. While Mr Trump thrives on deal-making rhetoric, his unpredictability makes long-term agreements difficult to pin down. Mr Starmer will need to continue pressing for commitments to protect British economic interests.

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Beyond trade, the discussion touched on the UKs negotiations over the Chagos Islands, where the US maintains a key military base. Mr Trump signaled a willingness to support the UKs agreement with Mauritius, a potential shift from Republican opposition. While this may seem like a minor diplomatic win, it highlights the broader geopolitical considerations Britain must navigate under an America-first administration. Mr Starmer faced a challenge when the issue of free speech arose.

US Vice President J.D. Vance had recently criticized the UK and Europe for allegedly curbing speech freedoms. Mr Starmer responded firmly, defending Britains long history of upholding free expression. His direct rebuttal was a rare moment where he seized control of the conversation, underscoring his ability to push back when necessary. In the end, Mr Starmers visit was less about securing deals and more about laying the groundwork for future engagement. His challenge will be to assert Britains interests without being overshadowed by Mr Trumps forceful diplomacy.
Amid emerging differences between the US and its European allies on the Ukraine conflict, President Donald Trumps close adviser and Department of Government Efficiency chief Elon Musk has publicly supported the withdrawal of the US from both NATO and the UN.

I agree, he posted in response to a post on X by political commentator and MAGA activist Gunther Eagleman, saying: Its time to leave NATO and the UN, sharing a post by Republican Senator Mike Lee calling for such a move.

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In February, Senator Lee of Utah had also introduced the Disengaging Entirely from the United Nations Debacle (DEFUND) Act, proposing a complete US withdrawal from the UN and termed the world body a platform for tyrants that attacks America and its allies, and has not been able to stop wars, genocides, human rights violations, and pandemics despite all its funding.

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Musk had supported Lees stand, noting in a post on X that the US provides way too much funding to the UN and associated entities.

This is not the first time that Musk has questioned the US membership in NATO, which last month only, he had termed anachronistic and not relevant in the post-Cold War era. He also questioned the rationale behind American taxpayers covering a significant portion of Europes defence costs, highlighting that the US pays for nearly 67 per cent of NATOs military expenses, despite spending only 3.5 per cent of its GDP on defence.

Trump has also criticised NATO, urging members to increase defence expenditure and threatening to withdraw from it, on the grounds that the US bears an unfair financial burden for European security.

However, this was not the only post by Musk on geopolitical affairs on Sunday.

Sharing an October 3, 2022 poll he posted on a formula for peace between Russia and Ukraine, he posted: What I said over 2 years ago was that Ukraine should seek peace or suffer severe loss of life for no gains.

The latter was Zelenskys choice. Now, he wants to do that again. This is cruel and inhumane, he wrote, in a reference to the infamous and public spat between Trump and the Ukrainian leader, ending with the latters virtual expulsion from the White House.

In the poll, he proposed reconducting elections of annexed regions under UN supervision and Russia to leave if that is will of the people; Crimea formally part of Russia, as it has been since 1783 (until Khrushchevs mistake); water supply to Crimea assured, and Ukraine remains neutral.

Responding to the 40.9 per cent votes in favour and 59.1 per cent no votes, Musk had said: This is highly likely to be the outcome in the end  just a question of how many die before then.

Continuing the attack on the Ukrainian leader, Musk also reposted, without comment a report about then President Joe Biden losing his cool over Zelenskys unstoppable demands, and a cartoon of a version of the trolley controllers ethical dilemma, with the figure named Zelensky and bearing the caption: You can stop the tram at any moment, but you refuse because you need guarantees that it wont start moving again in a few years.

The tech billionaire also commented: Zelensky damaged himself severely in the eyes of the public. Just a fact to a shared CNN report noting that the number of people who now think the US is helping Ukraine too much is up from 7 per cent to 41 per cent and the trust in Zelensky fell from 72 per cent to under 48 per cent.
The Israeli army killed at least four Palestinians across the Gaza Strip on Sunday, according to Palestinian health authorities and medical sources.

The Israeli army killed two Palestinians by attacking a group of locals with a military drone in the town of Beit Hanoun in the north of Gaza Strip, Gaza-based health authorities said in a press statement.

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The Israeli army said in a press statement that its forces had spotted several individuals engaging in suspicious activities near military positions in northern Gaza, alleging that they were planting an explosive device, Xinhua news agency reported.

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The statement added that the Israeli Air Force launched an attack to eliminate the threat and reiterated the militarys commitment to removing any perceived dangers to Israeli soldiers and citizens.

Meanwhile, local sources and eyewitnesses reported a mass displacement of hundreds of families from the eastern areas of Beit Hanoun due to the airstrikes.

In a separate incident, medical teams recovered the body of a woman and treated two wounded people following an Israeli bombardment on the town of Al-Farahin, east of Khan Younis in southern Gaza, according to Gaza-based health authorities.

In Rafah, a young man was shot dead by Israeli gunfire while standing on the roof of his home in the city centre, according to Palestinian medical sources at Gazas European Hospital in Khan Younis.

The Israeli army has not commented on the incidents in Khan Younis and Rafah.

These developments came a day after the first phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas ended, which was supposed to be followed by negotiations on its second phase.

The new deaths came despite a ceasefire agreement that has been in place in Gaza since January 19, halting Israels war that has killed nearly 48,200 people and left the enclave in ruins.

The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November last year for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
According to a government survey in Japan, over 80 per cent of Japanese people support the death penalty, stating that the existence of the system is unavoidable, local media reported on Sunday.

This survey is conducted every five years, and for the fifth consecutive term, the support for capital punishment exceeded 80 per cent in a government poll, reports the leading news portal, Kyodo News.

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In the most recent survey, it was shown that the approval for capital punishment increased by 2.3 points, reaching 83.1 per cent in comparison to the earlier survey conducted in 2019. At the same time, the percentage of individuals supporting abolition saw a more significant increase of 7.5 points, climbing to 16.5 per cent.

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The main reason for the support of the death penalty given by 66.2 per cent was concern for the feelings of victims of capital crimes and their families.

Meanwhile, a total of 55.5 per cent said violent crimes should be paid for with lives, while 53.4 per cent, raising concern, stated that the abolition of capital punishment would lead to a rise in atrocious crimes.

On the other hand, the section of people favouring the abolition of the death penalty, amongst them 71 per cent, gave the reason that mistaken convictions become irreversible.

Meanwhile, many said that the death penalty should be abolished if life imprisonment without parole is introduced, while others favouring the death penalty said it should remain in place.

The survey was conducted between October and December after an 88-year-old man, Iwao Hakamada, was acquitted in a retrial in 2024 over a 1966 quadruple murder case after spending more than four decades on death row, Kyodo News reported.

According to the Japanese Ministry of Justice, 77 people have been executed in Japan since 2007. There have been no executions in Japan since July 2022.

Japan and the United States are the only G7 countries that still use capital punishment. In Japan, capital punishment has strong public support, and scrapping it is rarely discussed.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, March 3. Ukraine is ready to sign an agreement on minerals with the US, said President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a discussion with Ukrainian and British journalists in the UK.

The agreement on minerals is ready. The final version is prepared. Ministers can sign it. We are not taking any steps back. It is our policyto be consistent. Regardless of what has happened before, we are constructive. If we agreed that it would be signedthen on our side, we are ready to sign it, he said.

Zelenskyy pointed out that he is ready for any format of constructive relations with the United States.

We have all this, and it is within our power to preserve it all. We are counting on this. The agreement that is on the tableyes, it will be signed if the sides are ready, the Ukrainian president added.

The agreement would grant the United States access to Ukraines critical minerals and other valuable resources. The deal would allow the United States to obtain a portion of Ukraines rare earth minerals in compensation for the financial aid provided to Ukraine during its conflict with Russia and potentially for future aid.

In Kyiv on February 12, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent presented President Zelensky with the first draft of a minerals cooperation agreement. The deal called for 50 percent of Ukraines resulting mineral and natural resources revenues to go to the United States as payment for previous military support for the war against Russia. This would include not only revenues from rare earth mining but the entire economic value associated with resources in Ukraine including uranium, lithium, oil, gas, and even some port revenues. The deal also specified that U.S. companies must hold 50 percent ownership of Ukraines rare earth elements deposits. The deal would override all of Ukraines other trade agreements.

Zelensky refused to sign the agreement as it included no security guarantees for Ukraine.
Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he was ready to sign the aborted mineral deal with the US after British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a Coalition of the Willing to back him at a summit of European leaders.

If we agreed to sign the minerals deal, were ready to sign it, he said on Sunday after the summit. The agreement thats on the table will be signed if the parties are ready, he told reporters.

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But there was no clarity about the US willingness to continue with the agreement that had been crafted by the two sides and ready for signing.

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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the agreement would be rendered moot if he wants the fighting to continue.

Zelensky has said he wants an end to Russias aggression and security from the US first.

But Bessent said that a peace deal was necessary for the mineral agreement to work.

France and Britain, meanwhile, tried to give impetus to the peace efforts that US President Donald Trump has been spearheading while facing Zelenskys scepticism.

Starmer said that he and Frances President Emmanuel Macron will come up with a pace plan with Zelensky and take it up with Trump.

Weve now agreed that the United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then well discuss that plan with the United States, he told the BBC.

In a preview of the plan, Macron said it could start with a one-month ceasefire that would be a prelude to a complete peace deal.

In an interview with the newspaper Le Figaro, he said that initially the ceasefire would cover air, sea, and the energy infrastructure, which are easy to monitor, and not ground fighting that would be difficult to monitor.

He said, The question is how we use this time to try to secure an achievable ceasefire, with negotiations that will last several weeks and then a deployment of troops once peace is signed.

Britain and France have offered to post troops in Ukraine in a peacekeeping operation to ensure the fighting does not resume.

Starmer said, We agree with Trump on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver together, but he said, Europe must do the heavy lifting.

Eighteen leaders from Europe and Canada participated in the summit, which, as Starmer said. came at a crossroads in history.

At the summit, the leaders stepped up to take more responsibility for Europes security amid doubts about the extent of continued support from the US under Trump.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said Europe showed a readiness for stepping up support to help Ukraine to continue facing Russia.

In his interview, Macron said European countries should boost their defence spending to between 3 and 3.5 per cent of their gross domestic product, above the NATO target of 2 per cent.

Trump has demanded that the Europeans increase their defence spending.

Macron pointed out that Russia was spending 10 per cent of its GDP on defence.

On Friday, Zelensky who had come to sign the minerals agreement got into a vehement altercation with Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who accused him of not being sufficiently grateful to the US and disrespectful to the president.

When Zelensky tried to raise his doubts about the peace deal with Moscow that Trump was negotiating without Ukraine and said that Russias President could not be trusted, the meeting at the Oval Office in front of live cameras ended without signing the agreement. Trump later told reporters that Zelensky was not interested in peace.

Under the mineral agreement, an investment fund to be jointly operated by the US and Ukraine would be set up, with 50 per cent of future income from Ukraines state-owned mineral resources, oil, and gas going into it. Some of the money from the fund would be invested in Ukraine.

Some media reports said that Trump wanted Ukraine to pledge to the US $500 billion in million mineral wealth but the demand was dropped.

Zelenskys welcome in Britain was in stark contrast to the hostility he faced in Washington. He was warmly received by Starmer and later met with King Charles.

At the summit, the European leaders rallied around him making their support clear.
IIT Roorkee, which started as Roorkee College in 1847, was the first engineering college in Asia. After about a century, the college was elevated to the University of Roorkee, the first engineering university of independent India, on November 25, 1949, and to an IIT on September 21, 2001
Madhabi Puri Buch, whose tenure as the chairperson of market regulator SEBI ended on February 28, 2025, along with several other officials, including the current MD and CEO of BSE S. Ramamurthy find themselves in trouble after a court in Mumbai directed the Anti Corruption Bureau to register an FIR against them in connection with allegations of stock market fraud and regulatory violations.



Curiously though, the case relates to a listing of a company on the stock market back in 1994, when neither of the officials against whom an FIR has been ordered may have been in their respective positions.

What is the case?

The case pertains to a company called Cals Refineries.

The complainant, who claims to be a journalist, had sought an investigation into the listing of the company alleging large-scale financial fraud regulatory violations and corruption.

He had alleged that SEBI officials facilitated market manipulation and committed corporate fraud by allowing the company's listing that didn't meet the prescribed norms.

Apart from Buch and Ramamurthy, FIR has also been ordered against Pramod Agarwal, BSE's then chairman and public interest director, and three whole-time members of SEBI.

The court has said the allegations disclosed a cognisable offence and thus necessitated an investigation.

Sapan Shrivastava has claimed that he and his family had invested in the shares of Cals Refineries back in 1994, which was listed on BSE, and had suffered huge losses.

Cals Refineries' troubles

Cals Refineries was earlier known as Cals Limited and incorporated back in 1984, according to information available on stock broking firms. Originally promoted as a hardware firm, it was later transformed into a refinery company.

The company was later in 2013, found guilty in a case involving irregularities

In issuance of global depository receipts (GDR). In relation to the case, the market regulator barred 8 entities from the securities market for 10 years in 2014.

SEBI, BSE to mount legal challenge

Considering the case predates the tenure of the officials named, it's interesting the court ordered an FIR against them now.

Not surprisingly, both SEBI as well as BSE have said they will mount a legal challenge.

"The officials named in the application were not in their respective positions at the time of listing and were not connected with the company at all. The application is frivolous and vexatious in nature. BSE is initiating necessary and appropriate legal steps in this regard," the exchange said.

SEBI issued a similar statement and said it would initiate appropriate legal steps to challenge the order.

"Even though these officials were not holding their respective positions at the relevant point of time, the court allowed the application without issuing any notice or granting any opportunity to SEBI to place the facts on record," it said.

The regulator also pointed the applicant is known to be a "frivolous and habitual litigant" with previous applications dismissed by the court, with the imposition of costs in some cases.
China, which boasts of the largest navy in the world, appears to be further strengthening its position as a powerful force by building a huge nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, a report by NBC News revealed.

Analysis of the images from Chinas Dalian shipbuilding facility indicates that Beijing is building an aircraft carrier that can rival the US Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford.

The report in NBC News suggests that the new ship will have the ability to launch four fighter jets, making it more capable than the current aircraft carriers of China which an launch jets from only three parts.

The US has 11 supercarriers that can launch fighter jets from four places.

ALSO READ: Why Indian Navy chief thinks India won half the battle despite Chinese Navy's growing presence in Indian Ocean Region

Michael Duitsman, a researcher at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, has been quoted as saying, "We think this is them testing equipment and layouts for the upcoming Type 04 carrier."

This would mean that the carrier will have to be bigger than Fujian, which is China's third aircraft carrier and the first of the Type 003 class.

Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, said the country's national defense policy is purely defensive in nature while refusing to acknowledge the development of a new supercarrier.

China already has three aircraft carriersLiaoning, Shandong and Fujian. While the first two are active, the third one is yet to be commissioned. While Liaoning is a Soviet-era carrier, refitted and commissioned by China in 2012, Shandong is China's first domestically built carrier, commissioned in 2019.
A few days after Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations released a highly jingoistic song to mark the anniversary of Operation Swift Retort in 2019, which showed Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman who was captured then, Pakistan Air Force pilot Air Commodore Nouman Ali Khan, who shot down India's MiG-21 Bison with a F-16 fighter jet, claimed that Pakistan's J-10C fighter jets are superior to India's Rafale fighters.

READ MORE: Pakistan's new war cry to its 'enemies' a warning to India?

Speaking to a Pakistani news channel, Air Commodore Khan, when asked about India's acquisition of Rafale jets, pointed out that while India has been inducting the fighter jets and making them operational, in response to this, Pakistan acquired and inducted a superior platform J-10C. We not only inducted them, we made them operational, he told the new channel.

The Rafale 4.5 generation combat jets are twin-engine, delta wing, multirole fighters with a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 and a combat radius of over 1000 km while the twin-engine, delta wing, multirole fighter Chengdu J-10C, with a maximum speed of Mach 1.8 and a combat radius of over 1000 km, too is considered a 4.5-generation aircraft.

There has been a record induction in Pakistan Air Force (IAF) in the past three years, he said and added that this has been done not just in fighter jets domain, but in unmanned areal systems domain as well.

He claimed that the training standards of PAF are world-class and said the incident of 2019, which according to him was a failure for India, shows that the more rigorous is your training, the less you will be bleeding in wars.

Air Commodore Khan said Pakistan's air defence network is very very sophisticated, adding, it was sophisticated in 2019, it is more sophisticated now. According to him, Pakistan behaved like a responsible state while shooting down of two Indian jets in February 2019, by keeping the damage to the minimum.
Indias soldiers always stand firm, vigilant and ready at the borders in difficult conditions to protect the country from all kinds of threats with courage and promptness, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said even as he urged people to contribute generously to the welfare of the soldiers and their families.

Addressing the Armed Forces Flag Day Corporate Social Responsibility (AFFD CSR) Conclave in New Delhi on Monday, the defence minister said while the government is committed to strengthening Indias security apparatus and ensuring the welfare of its soldiers and their families, it is the collective responsibility of the nation to support the soldiers in every way possible.

Whatever contribution you make, it will not be ordinary. You should take full care that tomorrow, when your real balance sheet is ready, it has more assets of satisfaction and happiness than liabilities, Singh said.

ALSO READ: CDS General Anil Chauhan to visit Australia. Here's what is on the agenda?

In a release, the defence ministry stated that the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare has been working for the welfare and rehabilitation of war widows, wards of fallen soldiers and ex-servicemen, including those who are disabled, by providing financial assistance for their identified personal needs such as penury grant, childrens education grant, funeral grant, medical grant and orphan/disabled children grant.

Further, the defence minister praised corporate houses for their generous contributions towards AFFD Fund.

Singh said he is confident that with increasing private sector participation in making the country self-reliant, India will find a place among the top-three economies of the world by 2027.
In 2025, the Manufacture of Brassus celebrates its 150th anniversary. Many believe they know (almost) everything about the brand. However, certain stories have remained under the radar, especially between 1875 and 1975.

1. A Movement in Reverse

Who knew that the Audemars Piguet manufacture might never have come to be? In its early days, many watchmakers in the Vallee de Joux left the region due to a major economic crisis. This crisis was partly caused by the industrialization of watchmaking, as seen at the 1876 Philadelphia Worlds Fair. Local watchmakers no longer had enough work in Switzerland to support themselves during the winter. It was during this exodus that, in the fall of 1875, 24-year-old Jules Louis Audemars, his wife Sidonie, and their baby returned to the Vallee de Joux after spending a little over a year in the village of Gimel, at the foot of the Jura mountains. A rare choice. The beginnings of his business remain mysterious, as no records are known before 1881...

Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet  Audemars Piguet

2. A Real Production Choice

While most watchmaking houses pursued industrialization, or at least established some form of it, the co-founders of Audemars Piguet made the opposite choice at the outset: to manufacture the cases and movements in-house, either as unique pieces or in very limited series. They occasionally called upon very small, specialized units, often working from home. This approach would define the brands history, as unique pieces or very short runs remained the dominant model until 1951!

1890. Double complication pocket watch. Split-seconds chronograph, minute repeater  Audemars Piguet

3. A Predisposition for Complications

Another defining choice was the focus on complications. This principle is strongly associated with the Vallee de Joux but almost became an exclusive hallmark of Audemars Piguet creations. Of the first 13 watches for which descriptions exist, nine are repeating watches, seven are chronographs, and three are calendars! Historically, until the first third of the 20th century, most of the most prestigious complicated movements came from the Vallee de Joux.

4. A Large Family

A brand is one thing, but a name is another. The company known at the time as "Audemars, Piguet & Co" sometimes encountered unexpected rivalry. One example is Louis Audemars, established in Brassus since 1811, who was both a competitor, a client... and a cousin.

Signed in December 1881 and effective from January 1, 1882, the contract between Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet officially marks the birth of the Audemars Piguet brand.  Audemars Piguet

5. An Address That Never Changed

Audemars Piguet's growth was gradual, as it produced only 500 pieces per year at the beginning of the 20th century. However, this was still a substantial volume in an era when, lets not forget, wristwatches did not yet exist. The young family-owned company had faith in its future and decided to build a new facility. It was 1907, and the chosen address was Route de France 16. This remains the headquarters of the manufacture today!

6. Very Unfavorable Circumstances

American industrialization, World War I, the 1929 crash: the early decades of Audemars Piguet were anything but easy. The collapse of the companys main American client nearly led to its demise, leaving unpaid debts equivalent to the entire annual turnover of the company. To cope, layoffs were made, the founding families sought tax exemptions, loans, and launched sub-brands, including Audiguet and APCO. Just enough to survive for a few years... before the outbreak of World War II. Audemars Piguet would not recover until the rise of the "Trente Glorieuses" (the thirty glorious years) from 1945 to 1975just like the entire Swiss watchmaking industry.
The United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) has decided to name its newest airframe, the OA-1K, after the A-1 Skyraider, which was in use during both the Korean War and Vietnam War. The rugged, versatile Skyraider was in service from 1946 to the early 1980s, offering extra muscle and firepower for Air Commando combat operations.

The OA-1K, now officially known as Skyraider II, is a lean, agile, modular, and hardened aircraft. According to an AFSOC release, one of the most distinguishing features of this aircraft is its tailwheel landing gear design which allows for short takeoffs and landings on unprepared/unimproved or austere airfields.

I am excited about the Skyraider II, I think we have a capability thats only ours, and we are going to have the ability to shape that into something that the rest of the nation might not even know they need right now, said Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, Air Force Special Operations commander, during the recent Special Air Warfare Symposium.

ALSO READ: Indian Armys Air Defence looking up with smart ammo, lasers, MW weapons

The crewed Skyraider II aircraft, adaptable across the spectrum of conflicts, will have the ability to support special operations forces as well as joint force through close air support, precision strike, and armed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

While AFSOC does not expect Skyraider II to mix up with fifth and sixth-generation fighters, it will provide value to our supported forces globally, Brig. Gen. Craig Prather, AFSOCs Director of Strategic Plans, Programmes and Requirements said.

Providing scalable and precision effects is where the Skyraider II will come in. The Skyraider II could take on missions from the southwest border to Africa and create dilemmas to those we are in competition with, he said.

The first Skyraider II is expected to arrive at AFSOC headquarters in Hurlburt Field in Florida later this year.
The 97th Academy Awards ceremony was held on Monday at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles. Comedian and podcaster Conan O' Brien, who hosted the ceremony (his first), surprised Indian viewers when he said, "Namaskar, nashte ke saath Oscar kar rahe hai aap log." ("You guys are having Oscars with your breakfast.")

The 97th #Oscars Best Supporting Actor Kieran Culkin with last years winner Robert Downey Jr.



Photo Credit: Matt Sayles pic.twitter.com/m4APME7xSu  The Academy (@TheAcademy) March 3, 2025

Anora won Best Picture, while Adrien Brody and Mikey Madison won Best Actor and Best Actress, for The Brutalist and Anora, respectively.

For Brody, this is his second Oscar after The Pianist, in 2002. Brody recently bagged the Best Actor trophies at the Golden Globes and BAFTA.

Madison's win is a first. This year's Academy Awards also saw some first-time winners in the acting categories, chiefly Kieran Culkin and Zoe Saldana for Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress, for A Real Pain and Emilia Perez, respectively.

The only real pain was not having more time with Best Supporting Actor winner Kieran Culkin  with #Oscars Ambassador Amelia Dimoldenberg (@ameliadimz). pic.twitter.com/6obYwfeoqs  The Academy (@TheAcademy) March 3, 2025

In the technical departments, filmmaker Sean Baker won Best Director, Best Original Screenplay and Best Editing for Anora.

In an emotional speech, Saldana, who became a household name with the two Avatar films, said the win is a big moment for a "proud child of immigrant parents" and the "first American of Dominican descent."

Denis Villeneuve's 'Dune: Part Two' fetched two technical awards, namely, Best Sound and Best Visual Effects.

Conclave won Best Adapted Screenplay, while cinematographer Lol Crawley won for his work in The Brutalist.

The Best Animted Feature award went to Flow and Best International Feature was given to Brazil's I'm Still Here.

Among the other notable wins was of costume designer Paul Tazewell (for Wicked), who became the first Black man to win the Oscar for costume design.

The event also paid tribute to the late actor Gene Hackman, with his Unforgiven co-star Morgan Freeman honouring him through a speech.
Paul Tazewell has been dominating this awards season, and now he can add one more accolade to his name  an Oscar. The costume designer bagged the coveted golden statue for Wicked, beating out fellow nominees Arianne Philips (A Complete Unknown), Lisy Christl (Conclave), Janty Yates and Dave Crossman (Gladiator II), and Linda Muir (Nosferatu).

Tazewell made history by being the first Black man ever to be given this honour by the Academy, etching his name in the history books (the first Black person to ever win the award was Ruth E. Carter for Black Panther in 2018). As the nominees were praised by the cast members of each film as part of the Academys Fab 5, Bowen Yang, who played Pfannee in Wicked, said, To be costumed by the great Paul Tazewell is one of the biggest honours of my alleged career.

For his acceptance speech, Tazewell expressed: This is absolutely astounding. Thank you Academy for this very significant honour. I am the first Black man to receive the costume design award for my work on Wicked, followed by loud cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd. Thank you for trusting me to bring your characters to life. This is everything. Thank you, he concluded.

Who is Paul Tazewell?

Born in 1964 in Akron, Ohio, Tazewell started his professional career in theatre, debuting with Cheryl Wests 1991 play Before it Hits Home. He earned his first prestigious Tony nomination a few years later with Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk.

Since then, Tazewell has steadily risen to the top, working in Broadway productions such as The Colour Purple, In the Heights, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Hamilton. In 2022, he bagged his first Academy Award nomination for his work on Steven Spielberg's West Side Story. Tazewell was also the costume designer for the 2019 biographical film Harriet.

At 60 years old, he now joins the ranks of stars who are just one award from gaining EGOT status (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony), having won one Primetime Emmy Award for The Wiz Live! In 2018, and a Tony Award for Hamilton in 2016. He is joined by Kate Winslet, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Dick van Dyke, and Martin Scorsese among others, who are just one award shy of an EGOT.
With state assembly polls less than nine months away, the Bihar government unveiled a budget aimed at wooing the electorate, particularly the women. From pink buses to pink toilets, gyms for women, marriage halls for underprivileged girls, and working women hostels, the budget focuses on the half population of the state.

Deputy CM and Finance Minister Samrat Chaudhary presented a budget of Rs 3.16 lakh crore, which is Rs 38,000 crore more than the previous financial year. This being the last budget before the polls, the NDA governments focus is unmistaken. Though the budget has no cash sops as promised by the BJP governments in other states, they may now form part of the manifesto promise.

#WATCH | Patna | Bihar Deputy CM and Finance Minister Samrat Choudhary offers prayers ahead of the presentation of the state Budget 2025-26. He kept the first copy of the Budget in his house temple.



(Source: BJP) pic.twitter.com/Zcav90wrv4  ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

Chaudhary, also the former state BJP president, is face of the partys campaign in Bihar. By presenting a women-friendly budget, he has tried to keep the campaign points within the grouping. Though women voters are increasingly deciding the course of elections in several states, their heft was known much before in Bihar. Here Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has strengthened his position through various schemes for women including giving cycles for girls students, which proved to be a huge success. Over the years it also resulted in higher voting percentages for women voters in several areas. So, the promise of exclusive facilities for women in form of pink buses which will have women staff, pink toilets, even mobile gyms for women have a potential to solidify their support.

Bihar witnesses an increased migration where the male working population go out in search of work, while the women stay back. Hence, any sops for them can help parties get higher votes.

Patna, Bihar: State Finance minister Samrat Choudhary says, "...I presented Bihar's budget today under the leadership and guidance of CM Nitish Kumar. The Finance Department has proposed a budget of 3,17,000 crore for 2025-26..." pic.twitter.com/FjVuE9s9WY  IANS (@ians_india) March 3, 2025

Among other youth-friendly initiatives, Chaudhary announced the allocation of Rs 1,000 crore for the student credit card scheme, an increase in SC-ST pre-matric scholarship schemes from Rs 1000 to Rs 2000, and setting up of degree colleges in every block

As health and infrastructure are also key demands in the state, the finance minister has allocated Rs 20,335 crore for the health department and promised to set up a cancer hospital in Begusarai. New airports will come up in Bhagalpur, Saharsa, Muzaffarpur, Munger, Virpur, Valmikinagar and Madhubani.

For the agriculture sector, the NDA government announced that it will procure Arhar & Moong dal at a minimum support price.

It remains to be seen how much the JDU-BJP alliance government would be able to roll out the promised schemes.
The Supreme Court on Monday upheld visually-impaired individuals are eligible for appointments in district judiciary and disability was no grounds for denying the opportunity for such individuals. The apex court said states must provide an inclusive framework to assist visually-impaired persons.



Hearing a bunch of petitions including a suo motu matter, a bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan struck down relevant provisions in rules of various states which prevented the appointment of visually-impaired persons in judicial services. The bench observed, We have treated it as the most important case. We have touched upon constitutional framework also and institutional disability jurisprudence. No candidate can be denied such opportunity solely on account of disability," Bar and Bench reported.

"Any indirect discrimination that results in the exclusion of person with disabilities, whether through cutoff or procedural barriers must be interfered with in order to uphold substantive equality, it added.

The apex court took suo motu case in the matter after mother of a visually-impaired aspirant in Madhya Pradesh wrote to the apex court regarding rules in the state that prevented such individuals from taking up judicial services.

The apex court struck down provisions of Madhya Pradesh Judicial Services (Recruitment and Service Conditions) Rules which prevented visually-impaired persons from joining judicial services. The top court struck down Rule 6A of the judicial services rules that prevented persons with low visibility and visually impaired from joining the judiciary. The bench also struck down rules requiring candidates to undergo at least three years of practice. A similar provision in Rajasthan was also struck down by the Supreme Court.
Jammu and Kashmir MP Rashid Khan alias Engineer Rashid has moved a plea with the special court for hearing NIA cases, seeking interim bail to attend the upcoming session of Parliament.



Engineer Rashid, accused of funding terror activities by the National Investigation Agency, moved the plea saying he needed to attend the upcoming session to fulfil his public duty. Hearing the matter, Additional Sessions Judge Chander Jit Singh issued notice to the central agency and directed it to file a response by March 5.

Rashid has filed the plea seeking relief before the special court on February 27. The Parliament will next convene on March 10 for the second part of the budget session. The session will end on April 4.

Engineer Rashids petition comes as the special court is already hearing a regular bail plea filed by the Baramulla MP. The Delhi High Court had earlier directed the special court to expedite hearing on the bail plea. Earlier, the High Court granted two-day custody parole for Rashid to attend Parliament under severe restrictions. Rashid was restricted from using mobile phones or accessing internet during the parole.

In February, the Delhi High Court said the NIA special court can hear Rashids bail plea after it directed the MP to approach the MP/MLA court for bail owing to his election as public representative. The High Court had approached the Supreme Court seeking clarification over the matter.

Engineer Rashid was elected from the Baramulla seat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, defeating People Conference leader Omar Abdullah. He has been lodged in Tihar Jail since 2019 after the NIA arrested him under the UAPA in 2017 over charges of terror funding.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has hit back at the Centre once again and this time with a subtle jab. He advised newlywed couples in the southern state to plan families immediately in order to give Tamil Nadu an advantage during the delimitation exercise.

Speaking at the wedding of a DMK district leader in Nagapattinam, Stalin told the couple that they have babies immediately and give them good Tamil names. He pointed out that with the Narendra Modi government planning a delimitation exercise, he cannot ask them to take time for family planning.

"We succeeded in family planning and hence got pushed into the current situation. So I would urge the newlyweds to have babies soon," the Tamil Nadu chief minister said.

Stalin had earlier said delimitation exercise that draws bounderies of assembly and Lok Sabha constituencies based on the population would put southern states at a disadvantage. This is because the population growth of southern states have declined compared to the north, according to Stalin. He said Tamil Nadu would loss eight MPs if delimitations happens, reducing its representation in the Parliament.

He had earlier called a meeting of 40 political parties registered with the Election Commission to discuss the implications of constituency delimitation. After some political parties decided to skip the meeting, Stalin urged them to attend, saying, "Please set aside ego. Don't think why you should listen to my call. This is not a problem of DMK, it is a problem of this state and its rights."

The delimitation process is based on Articles 82 and 170 of the Indian Constitution. Article 82 stipulates that Parliament must enact a Delimitation Act after each census to redraw the borders of Lok Sabha seats while Article 170 stipulates the same for state assembly seats.
An Indian woman on death row in the UAE for the alleged murder of a four-month-old child had been executed on February 15, the Delhi High Court was informed on Monday.

Shahzadi Khan, 33, a native of Goira Mughlai village in Banda district of Uttar Pradesh, was sentenced to death on July 31, 2023.

"It is over. She was executed on February 15. Her last rites will be held on March 5," Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma told the court.

Sharma claimed that the government had tried its best to assist her.

VIDEO | On Shahzadi Khan death sentence case in UAE, advocate Ali Mohammad Maaz informs, "Shahzadi was convicted, we had applied for clemency. The matter was going on, we had written an e-mail to officials of Abu Dhabi to file a letter for clemency as per their formats. On 14 pic.twitter.com/kpxxxO2QGK  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

The court was hearing a petition filed by Shahzadi's father seeking to know her well-being.

The petitioner's counsel told the court that Shahzadi had called her family on February 14 saying that she would be executed in a day or two and this would be her last call.

The Ministry of External Affairs, meanwhile, stressed that the Indian Embassy in the UAE had provided all possible legal assistance to Shahzadi.

"The Embassy provided all possible legal assistance to Shahzadi, including sending mercy petitions and pardon requests to the Government of the UAE. The UAE authorities intimated to the Embassy on February 28, 2025 that the sentence of Shahzadi has been carried out in accordance with local laws. The family of Shahzadi has been informed of the matter," it said.

'Justice denied'

Shahzadi's father Shabbir Khan alleged that his daughter was denied justice and that the Indian government did not extend any support to the family.

STORY | Indian woman, Shahzadi Khan, on death row in Abu Dhabi executed, Delhi HC told



READ: https://t.co/RqDzAKeHqV



VIDEO | Here's what Shahzadi Khan's father Shabbir Khan said:



"She was not given justice. I tried my best. I have been trying since last year. I don't have pic.twitter.com/jFwBIbYgrF  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

"We approached the Indian government and submitted applications at multiple places but we had no money, no means to go there and hire a lawyer. The government did not stand with us," he told PTI videos.

"Yogi ji (UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath) and Modi ji (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) don't have daughters, they cannot understand this pain. If it had been someone close to them, they would have taken action," he further said.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has on Monday said the government's commitment to restoring Jammu and Kashmirs statehood.

He made the statement in his address on the first day of the Assembly's budget session in Jammu. He said the administration will keep engaging with stakeholders until this goal is achieved.

VIDEO | Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Session: LG Manoj Sinha (@manojsinha_) addresses the House.



"This session is not just a legislative formality but a reflection of your commitment to good governance, transparency and inclusive development. This Budget carries historic pic.twitter.com/Nfo6n5GiKm  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

"The government is determined to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, he said. We will continue discussions with all stakeholders to make this happen."

He highlighted efforts to ensure the return of Kashmiri Pandits by providing a safe and supportive environment.

He said the local governance would be strengthened through timely Panchayat and Urban Local Body elections.

Sinhas statement seems to pre-empt the growing demand for the restoration of statehood by MLAs during the budget session.

The opposition BJP, PDP and Peoples Conference (PC) have submitted bills on Article 370, banning the sale of liquor and ownership rights to houses built on state land.

This is the first budget session in seven years in Jammu and Kashmir. The last budget session was held in 2018 when BJP and PDP were part of the ruling alliance.

What makes this session unique is that it is the first time that a budget session is being held in Jammu and Kashmir as a union territory with the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah as acting finance minister.

Before the session, Abdullah held discussions with key stakeholders including businessmen and traders in Jammu and Kashmir.

He also lobbied the Centre for generous funding in his several meetings with the Central leaders, including finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. However, the allocation for Jammu and Kashmir was reduced by one thousand crores compared to last year.

However, Kiren Rijju, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs & Minister of Minority Affairs, during his visit to Jammu and Kashmir after the budget said the budget allocation was based on the assessment of the total spending in Jammu and Kashmir in the previous fiscal.
The suicide attack on February 28 at Darul Uloom Haqqania, the prominent Deobandi madrasa in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, has once again drawn attention to the shifting terror nexus in Afghanistan-Pak region and the role of Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) causing worry for Indian security agencies.

While no outfit has claimed the attack that killed Ulema-e-Islam- Sami (JUI-S) leader and madrasa Head Maulana Hamidul Haq, commentators in Pakistan suspect ISKP is behind the killing. However, Indian officials watching the developments closely are concerned about a spillover of the proxy wars of outfits operating in the Af-Pak region purportedly supported by Pakistans ISI.

A case in point is the conflicts between various TTP factionsonce used by the Pakistan armyturning into a major challenge as disgruntled factions have launched major attacks and caused large casualties in recent months . Officials said the growing differences between the Pakistan army and Taliban regime and continuing efforts of ISKP to militarily challenge Taliban can open up a can of worms as terror groupsonce nurtured as long arm of state supportmay use the opportunity to augment their networks beyond Af-Pak region to target Indian and Western interests.

Thousands attended the funeral of Hamidul Haq, head of Jamia Haqqania & chief of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, who was martyred in a suicide attack at a mosque inside the seminary. Police say he was the target. He was the son of Maulana Samiul Haq, a key figure linked to the Afghan https://t.co/fRowb1iCyl pic.twitter.com/dnMplzbURo  Ghulam Abbas Shah (@ghulamabbasshah) March 1, 2025

According to security officials, Taliban after consolidating its control over Afghanistan, started pushing back the Pakistan army, which set off a series of disputes mostly involving the management of the movement of people and goods across the Durand line and activities of various terror groups.

TTP factions found these emerging differences as an additional leverage in their dealings with ISI, said an official.

At the same time, efforts by the Pakistan ISI to prop up ISKP as a check and leverage over the Taliban have muddied the waters more.

In another recent assassination, ISKP purportedly claimed the killing of prominent Taliban leader from the Haqqani Network Khalil Rahman Haqqani in December 2024 in Kabul. While the reasons are not clear, Indian security officials point out that it is implausible for ISKP to have this capability inside Kabul without outside support.

At the root of the ISKPs emboldened moves, sources said, are inherent contradictions playing out between Pakistans ISI and various extremist groups operating in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Officials pointed out that ISI-linked actors like Aijaz Ahmad Ahangar alias Abu Usman al Kashmiri, his son-in-law Huzaifa Al Bakistani and Aslam Farooqi had become prominent in ISKP ranks. Significant number of ISKP foot soldiers came from TTP, Haqqani Network and LeT, sources said, which indicates a tacit role of ISI in making ISKP lethal enough to challenge Taliban. Indian officials also suspect that the ISKP has been receiving sufficient funding through timber and precious stone smuggling, a lucrative source of smuggling that was once a monopoly of the Haqqani Network.

In the factionalised milieu of Af-Pak region, the latest worry of Indian security agencies is the growth of extremist outfits and associated violence becoming a breeding ground for diverse terror groups outside the troubled region .
Russian showman Maxim Galkin, who has been supporting Ukrainians since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, poked fun at US President Donald Trump and his administration for Volodymyr Zelenskyy's lack of a business suit, which was noticed during the Ukrainian president's visit to the White House in Washington, DC. That is why the Russian decided to show an eloquent photo of the Ukrainian's meeting with King Charles III of Great Britain.

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Maxim Galkin posted this photo on Instagram and noted that, unlike Trump, the monarch was not naughty about the Ukrainian president's appearance. It is worth noting that Charles III himself was wearing a business suit during the meeting.

"Look what's happening, and Charles III, King of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Commonwealth of the Windsor dynasty, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Great Britain, Supreme Ruler of the Church of England, Head of the Commonwealth of Nations, was not embarrassed that Volodymyr Oleksandrovych was not wearing a suit," said Maxim Galkin.

In the published photo, the King of Britain and the President of Ukraine pose together for a photo and even smile for the camera. As we have already noted, Charles III was wearing a gray business suit, while Volodymyr Zelenskyy was wearing almost the same unitary clothes he wore to the White House.

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We would like to remind you that during a conversation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, a journalist and the President of Ukraine had a dispute over his appearance. The US press cynically asked why the Ukrainian did not come to the meeting in a business suit. Zelenskyy replied: "I will wear it when the war is over. Maybe one like yours. Maybe it will be better. Maybe cheaper. We'll see!"

We would like to add that Mike Waltz, National Security Advisor to US President Donald Trump, also emphasized in an interview with Fox News that the President of Ukraine was not dressed properly. He said he was "not dressed to deal with issues" related to peace.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote that the Oscars 2025 parodied Volodymyr Zelenskyy's meeting with Donald Trump at the White House, namely the moment when the Ukrainian president was asked about his business suit.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
As many as 12 Union and Telangana government agencies are working in full swing to rescue the eight workers trapped inside the partially collapsed Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel for 10 days. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday said rescue forces are likely to make a breakthrough within three days.



#WATCH | Nagarkurnool, Telangana: VVN Prasanna Kumar, NDRF Commandant, says, " Operation is going on in full swing. At present, approximately 12 agencies are working round the clock to find the victims. Unfortunately, we haven't been able to locate them. However, state govt and https://t.co/dHMgalIfCz pic.twitter.com/y7EEyUdoF5  ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

As many as 12 agencies including the armed forces, geology and tunnel experts are working on the site as part of the rescue operation. Over 700 personnel from various agencies are involved in the rescue operation.

V.V.N. Prasanna Kumar, NDRF Commandant told ANI, Operation is going on in full swing. At present, approximately 12 agencies are working round the clock to find the victims. Kumar added governments are putting their best efforts for the rescue of trapped workers. He added experts are yet to locate the position of workers trapped inside the tunnel since February 22.

#WATCH | Telangana SLBC tunnel collapse incident | Nagarkurnool: CM Revanth Reddy visits the incident site and reviews the situation.



The Rescue operation is underway here for the eight workers who are still trapped inside the tunnel after a portion of it collapsed on 22nd pic.twitter.com/ytsiTdn6ta  ANI (@ANI) March 2, 2025

The Commandant said the 1,500-ton Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) which got damaged in the collapse was hindering the rescue operations.

On Sunday, Chief Minister Reddy visited the tunnel site and reviewed rescue operations. Reddy interacted with personnel indulged in the operation and said the conveyor belt which got damaged in the collapse would be repaired by Monday. They (rescue personnel) are not able to come to a full understanding on where the humans and the machinery got stuck. They have a preliminary estimation but not fully," Reddy had said.

The chief minister added rescuers were advised to use robots inside the tunnel for the mission considering their safety. Reddy added it may take another two-three days for the operation to reach a certain stage and that the rescue personnel would be able to spell out the further course of action then, PTI reported.
Members of students wing organisations of left parties and Trinamool Congress clashed in West Bengal on Monday amid protests announced by the Students Federation of India demanding the resignation of Education Minister Bratya Basu. The clash occurred in Siliguri when left-wing student cadres tried to stop a college bus.



#WATCH | Siliguri | A clash broke out between members of Trinamool Chhatra Parishad and All India Democratic Students' Organisation (AIDSO) workers during a students' strike called by SFI in all universities across West Bengal. The strike is called against the recent Jadavpur pic.twitter.com/gB2RAu3Zxy  ANI (@ANI) March 3, 2025

The SFI has announced a strike in campuses across West Bengal on Monday, demanding action against Education Minister Bratya Basu, and his resignation after his car allegedly hit student protesters at Jadavpur University on Saturday. Major campuses across the state wore a deserted look on Monday.

In Siliguri, a clash broke out between members of Trinamool Chhatra Parishad and All India Democratic Students' Organisation (AIDSO) workers while the left wing workers allegedly tried to stop a college bus. The AIDSO protesters allegedly tried to block a bus from North Bengal University as part of the protest. However, the left workers denied the charges and said it was TMC workers who attacked the students.

The SFI has demanded the resignation of the education minister and criminal action against him after he allegedly grievously injured two students while Bratya Basu was returning from Jadavpur University after attending a meeting. SFI charged while the students only wanted to have a peaceful discussion with the minister, he reacted in high-handed manner. SFI alleged the ministers car just accelerated through the protesting students without being concerned about the safety of students. Basu also sustained injuries as the windshield of his car was damaged by the protesters.
Israel has expressed disappointment that 'No Other Land', a documentary that focuses on the forced displacement of Palestinians from their homes in Masafer Yatta, won the Oscar for best documentary feature on Sunday. The documentary, made between 2019 and 2023, also received a standing ovation at the Oscars.

The film, made both by Israelis and Palestinians, premiered at the Berlin Film Festival last year where it won the Berlinale Documentary Award.

However, its glory at the Oscars did not go down well with Israel, which called it a "sad moment for the world of cinema". Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar hit out at the documentary makers calling the work "slander'.

"The Oscar win for the film No Other Country is a sad moment for the world of cinema  instead of presenting the complexity of our reality, the filmmakers chose to echo narratives that distort Israels image in the world," Zohar writes on X.

The Oscar win for the film "No Other Land" is a sad moment for the world of cinema. Instead of presenting the complexity of Israeli reality, the filmmakers chose to amplify narratives that distort Israels image vis-a-vis international audiences. Freedom of expression is an  Miki Zohar   (@zoharm7) March 3, 2025

Zohar said while Israel believed freedom of expression was an important value, turning the slander of Israel into "a tool for international promotion" was not creativity." "It is sabotage of the State of Israel, and after the massacre of October 7 and the ongoing war, it doubly hurts," he writes.

He also argued for a law that ensured public responses were directed towards making works that speak to the Israeli audience and "not to an industry that makes a career out of defaming the country at foreign festivals".

However, Zohar had earlier flak for insisting on diverting money towards commercial works rather than artistic films and documentaries that shed light on Israels periphery. Critics argue this is an effort by Israels right-wing government to silence liberal voices and limit the opportunities to hear non-mainstream perspectives.

The team behind #NoOtherLand accepts the #Oscar for best documentary and speaks about the Iraeli-Palestinian conflict pic.twitter.com/3ilRwmdkzf  The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 3, 2025

Meanwhile, the documentary's co-director Yuval Abraham, after accepting the award, said the Palestinians and Israelis had made the film together because together our voices are stronger. "We see each other the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people must end," Abraham said.

Basel Adra, co-director of the documentary, too said the film reflected "the harsh reality" that his fellow Palestinians had endured for many years. He told the crowd that he had recently become a father and hoped his daughters life would not be like his  always fearing certain violence, home demolitions and forced displacement.
US President Donald Trump is going to unimaginable extent to woo Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin and this has become evident with his administration ordering Pentagon to halt all offensive cyber operations against Russia.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Sunday gave the order to the US Cyber Command, raising questions about the US national security and infrastructure. Experts believe that this could leave Washington exposed to cyberattacks by Moscow.

CBS News has confirmed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered U.S. Cyber Command to temporarily halt cyber operations and planning against Russia. Rep. Mike Turner disputes the reporting, telling @margbrennan: "Considering what I know what Russia is currently doing against pic.twitter.com/dtOAfECFtF  Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) March 2, 2025

A source familiar with the Trump administration's shocking move told The Guardian that with funds to agencies slashed and cybersecurity personnel fired, American systems are left unprotected. "Our adversaries know this," the person said, "People are saying Russia is winning. Putin is on the inside now."

Some officials who know about the classified order told the outlet that the move is part of Trump administration's efforts to bring Putin to the negotiation table for a potential ceasefire deal in the Ukraine conflict.

This comes amid Trump's Oval Office showdown with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in front of the media, with the Ukrainian leader being asked to leave the White House and Trump calling off the signing ceremony of a potential mineral deal.

Last week, Liesyl Franz, the deputy assistant secretary for international cybersecurity at the State Department, did not mention Russia while singling out China and Iran as cyber threats in a UN cybersecurity working group.

The US also voted against last week's UN resolution that said Russia is the aggressor in Ukraine.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier spoke on ABC, dismissing claims that the Trump administration is going soft on Putin. "You're not going to bring them to the table if you're calling them names, if you're being antagonistic," he said.

Pointing out that Trump's goal is peace, Rubio said that if this was a Democrat, everyone would vouch for Nobel Peace Prize. "This is absurd. We are trying to end a war," he said.
Since its removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list in 2014, Nepal has faced a decade of inadequate leadership, corruption, mishandling of funds, and questionable governance practices. Consequently, Nepal has been placed on the FATFs grey list once more. The FATF made this decision during its plenary meeting in Paris from February 17 to 21, 2025, citing Nepal's failure to fully implement necessary legal, policy, and structural reforms to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

The grey-listing is attributed to deficiencies in financial oversight and enforcement, as identified by the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG), the FATF-style regional anti-money laundering body. When grey-listed, as a 'jurisdiction under increased monitoring' by the FATF, a country is required to develop an action plan within a specific time-frame. While being on the grey-list does not subject Nepal to sanctions, it signals to the international banking system that there may be increased transactional risks associated with doing business with it. Kathmandu has been given two years to address these deficiencies and work towards removing itself from the grey list.

Being grey-listed could harm Nepal's already struggling economy, which heavily depends on foreign aid, remittances, and imports. Prime Minister K. P. Sharma Oli, now in his fourth term, is facing considerable criticism following Nepal's inclusion in the grey list, with the opposition calling for his resignation.

There have been ongoing concerns for some time now that deficiencies in both its legislation and enforcement of laws related to money laundering and terror financing, might result in Nepals grey-listing. Considering the significant scope of the remittance economy and the regular movement of currency between Nepal and its international diaspora, anti-money laundering legislation and enforcement have fallen far short of required efforts.

The primary predicate crimes in Nepal include drug trafficking, human trafficking, arms trafficking, cooperatives, counterfeit currency, tax evasion, and gold smuggling, among others. Significant vulnerabilities stem from the porous Indo-Nepal border, which facilitates terrorist activities and terrorist financing. The Terai is favoured by criminals for the trafficking of people, human organs, small arms, contraband goods, drugs, and counterfeit currency, and could offer a hideout for armed criminal and terrorist groups.

A deficiency of comprehensive and long-term strategic guidelines, ineffective investigative system, inadequately trained bureaucracy, and an open border with high levels of informal transactions with India, has rendered it conducive for money laundering. The countrys Financial Act includes a provision stipulating that the government will not inquire about the source of income from investors who are investing in infrastructure projects and businesses.

In addition to mafia style groups active in the country, such as Milan Gurung, who carry out extortion and racketeering in Kathmandu Valley, there troubling reports of criminal groups affiliated to political parties. The role of youth-wings of political parties, who systematically engage in extortion activities, is fundamental in the countrys organised crime landscape. Involvement of state-embedded actors in criminal markets continues to flourish due to the lack of monitoring of corruption cases and the inefficient enforcement of the relevant regulation.

Informal remittance systems like Hundi remain popular among a large number of Nepalis living in the countries like Hong Kong, South Korea, Australia and Israel. Though there is no exact data on how much money is sent through Hundi, central bank officials estimate that nearly 40 per cent of the remittance is sent using informal channels.

Nepal serves as both a transit route and a destination for gold smuggling. Gold is smuggled into the country from Dubai, Thailand, and Hong Kong via the Chinese border or Tribhuvan International Airport. In India, the gold is sold at higher prices than in Nepal, China and other neighbouring nations, hence gold smugglers always look out for Indian markets. A lack of proper equipment and expertise continues to pose a challenge in curbing such illegal activities.

Added to this is the countrys expanding counterfeit goods market that includes domestically made products as well as the import of counterfeit goods from both China. For example, Fanta is sold as Fantu and Funny ', Sprite as Sport and 'Strike while Mountain Dew is sold as Maintain Dew. These bottles have similar packaging as the original brand and are produced in Dhading. According to the Department of Industry, there are 900 pending cases against trademark fraud in Nepal. Royal Stag, Golden Oak and Blue Riband have filed complaints at the department claiming their trademarks had been stolen.

Nepal's political instability  10 governments have ruled the country in the last 10 years  and deep-rooted corruption, have contributed to an unprecedented level of financial crime. Following numerous accounts of the misuse of foreign aid in Nepal, the Donald Trump administration has cancelled $39 million in aid set aside for Nepal, including $20 million for fiscal federalism and $19 million for biodiversity conservation. Being grey-listed formally signals to the global community that Nepal has governance and regulatory issues. This could impact Nepals standing in international forums and its ability to negotiate favourable trade and financial agreements. The Oli government needs to take decisive action to address these concerns.

Vaishali Basu Sharma is a security and economic affairs analyst.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.
After Volodymyr Zelenskyys blowout with United States President Donald Trump at the Oval Office in Washington, the crucial summit held in the UK on Sunday showed Europes unity in finding a peace plan to end the Russia-Ukraine war.

French President Emmanuel Macron during the summit put forward a ceasefire proposal, a limited initial one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine. Kyiv has held its reservations on the proposal as it believes that any limited pause in the war would favour the Russians.

VIDEO | European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) after attending the European Leaders' Summit in London, says, "We had a very good and frank discussion. Of course, security guarantees are of utmost importance for Ukraine, but we need comprehensive pic.twitter.com/BVnsszU4ky  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 3, 2025

Ukraine stated that it would not agree to any limited ceasefire deal without security guarantees.

However, the UK distanced from Macrons proposal.

Foreign Affairs Spokesperson for the Liberal Democrats @CalumMillerLD says the party fully supports Keir Starmer in working with the UK's European allies on defence so 'we're no longer dependent on the United States'. https://t.co/PAiZ4D1jU3



 Sky 501 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/YXK08IfbZ8  Sky News (@SkyNews) March 3, 2025

The UK and France have agreed to work on Ukraines peace plan with the aim of ending the war after the White House showdown. Starmer said that the peace plan would be shared with Washington after the discussions.

UK has hosted the London summit to work on the peace plan as a move to appease the US.

Macron said that his idea for a limited, one-month ceasefire "in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure" would have the advantage of verifying Russia's intentions.

While Starmer wanted to move forward with the peace plan "with momentum". UK officials said that the one-month truce was not "a UK plan".

"There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed," said a UK official.

They worry that any pause in the war would allow the Russians time to regroup, re-arm and reinvade.

Russia criticised the London summit saying that plans to increase funding to Kyiv will not help bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The funding from European leaders, including a $2 billion air-defence missiles deal from Britain, will cause the war to go on.

"It's very important that someone forces Zelenskyy himself to change his position. He doesn't want peace. Someone must make Zelenskyy want peace," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Meanwhile, Zelenskyy after the summit said that Ukraine is ready to sign the minerals deal with the US. The agreement had been intended to be concluded on Friday but was left unsigned after the White House showdown.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is finding himself in a tight spot after many US Republican lawmakers, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, are calling out his resignation, stating they need a leader who can deal with the Russians and end the war.

This comes as Zelenskyy declared his intention to repair the relations with the Trump administration and reiterated that his country was ready to sign a rare minerals deal with the US. But, top Washington officials minced no words in calling out for his resignation, stating Ukraine needs another leader if a peace deal is to be reached.

NSA Waltz told CNN that Washington is unsure whether Vladimir Zelensky is the right man to lead Ukraine at this juncture. "It is unclear whether President Zelensky, particularly after what we saw on Friday, is ready to transition Ukraine to an end to this war, and to negotiate and have to compromise," Waltz said, adding that it did not appear that Zelenskyy was ready to go to peace.

U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz:



Zelensky is like an ex-girlfriend who that wants to argue about everything you said nine years ago rather than moving the relationship forward pic.twitter.com/9MnkMqSX2d  Visegrad 24 (@visegrad24) March 2, 2025

"We need a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end this war," Waltz said. "If it becomes apparent that President Zelenskys either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in his country, then I think we have a real issue on our hands," he added.

Mike Waltz on Zelenskyy: "Coming to the Oval Office with the body language, the shaking of head, the arms crossed -- we just found it incredibly disrespectful." pic.twitter.com/l3KLca1hAf  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 2, 2025

Waltz later told Fox News that he and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio unanimously advised Trump that after that insult in the Oval Office, "they just couldn't see how that can move forward."

Rubio told Zelenskyy that "time is not on [his] side" and that "US aid is not unlimited".

Waltz claimed that it was unclear whether Zelenskyy genuinely wanted to stop the fighting, stating that it was the wrong approach, at the wrong time in history, and with the wrong president to try such an approach. "This is not Joe Biden".

House Speaker Mike Johnson was another Republican voice who vehemently asked for Zelenskyy's ouster. Stating that Zelenskyy needed to come to his senses, Johnson told NBC News that President Trump was trying to get these two parties to a point of peace.

"What President Zelenskyy did in the White House was effectively signal to us that hes not ready for that yet, and I think thats a great disappointment," he added.

Tulsi Gabbard, director of national intelligence, told Fox News Sunday that Zelensky had "created a huge rift in the relationship."
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to bring up US President Donald Trump's threat to annex Canada during his meeting with King Charles III on Monday.

King Charles, who is the head of the state of Canada, has been silent on Trump's threats about making Canada the 51st state of the United States, often referring to Trudeau as governor.

Trudeau said Canadians will "stand up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation" and nothing is more important that that.

I am grateful to His Majesty King Charles III for the audience.



 pic.twitter.com/qHPhiXv8fu  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 2, 2025

Jason Kenney, former PM of Alberta, a Canadian province, had earlier expressed disappointment about the King not responding to threats from the US president.

Meanwhile, King Charles has invited Trump to Scotland for a state visit. He met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday.

This comes after a dramatic showdown between the US and Ukrainian presidents at the Oval Office on Saturday. Trump accused Zelenskyy of "gambling with World War III" while the latter warned that the US will feel the Russian threat in the future if they do not guarantee its security.

Responding to the controversial White House meeting, Trudeau said, "I stand with Zelenskyy".

Earlier, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson told the Canadian Press that Trump's threats are "not something we would comment on."

King Charles's representative in Canada, Governor Mary Simon has also refused to comment, citing her neutral role. The British government has also decline to comment on hypotheticals.

Canada is a member of the Common Wealth and also part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance that also includes the US, the UK, Australia and New Zealand.
The deaths of the famous American actor Gene Hackman and his wife, the equally famous pianist Betsy Arakawa, will be investigated. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office said that there are several suspicious aspects to the circumstances of this tragedy, which look quite ordinary.

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According to the British broadcaster BBC, this was even indicated in the search warrant. In particular, it stated that the circumstances of the couple's death were "suspicious enough to warrant a thorough search and investigation."

As you know, Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman died at the age of 95. He was found in his home in Santa Fe with his dead 63-year-old wife. The couple's dog was also found dead there.

Heckman's body was found in a side room near the kitchen of the house. Arakawa's body was in the bathroom. The couple's dead shepherd was actually in a closet near the bathroom. The couple kept three dogs, but the other two sheepdogs were alive and were found outside the house.

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The cause of death of the couple has not yet been determined. Santa Fe sheriff, Mr. Adan Mendoza, said that the man and woman "appear to have been dead for quite some time," but refused to even speculate on when. He assured that the investigation would be transparent.

The chief detective from the sheriff's office added that the couple's bodies showed "all signs of decomposition and 'mummification. This also indicates that a long time had passed since their deaths.

Law enforcement officials demanded that carbon monoxide tests be conducted in the building, but the tests showed nothing.

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The results of toxicology tests and autopsy results are currently awaited.

An empty bottle containing some medicine and a bunch of pills were found near the woman's body.

Mr. Hackman was wearing gray sweatpants, a blue long-sleeved T-shirt and brown slippers. There were sunglasses and a cane near the body. The detective believes that the actor died suddenly.

The front door of the house was open. But no signs of forced entry were found. There are also no signs of theft or robbery.

The couple's ranch-style home is part of a gated community and is valued at approximately $1 million. Two maintenance workers regularly visited the complex, and one of them called the police.

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Technicians say that although they worked regularly on the ranch, they rarely saw the couple. They usually communicated with the actor and his wife by phone and text messages (primarily with Ms. Arakawa). And the last time they spoke with the couple was two weeks before.

Earlier it became known that a young actress of Ukrainian descent Michelle Trachtenberg died in the United States. She was found dead on the morning of February 26 in an apartment in New York.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested on Sunday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may need to step down if he does not approach peace talks with a more conciliatory stance. However, when asked directly, Johnson did not call for Russian President Vladimir Putin to do the same.

During an interview on Meet the Press, NBCs Kristen Welker questioned Johnson about the perception that former President Donald Trump and some Republicans are aligning with Russia in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Johnson rejected that notion, saying, Its pretty absurd for anyone in the media or Democrats to somehow proclaim that President Trump, the White House, or Republicans in Congress are on Putins side. Its a joke. We understand that he is a dangerous adversary and he is the one that provoked the war.

However, Welker pointed out that Trump had previously stated the opposite, blaming Ukraine for instigating the war. In a February 18 statement, Trump told Zelensky, You shouldve never started it.

Johnson defended Trumps stance, arguing that the former president is focused on brokering peace between the two nations. President Trump is trying to get these two parties to a point of peace. And it takes certain maneuvers and certain strategies to do that, Johnson said. What President Zelensky did in the White House was effectively signal to us that hes not ready for that yet. And I think thats a great disappointment.

Welker pressed Johnson on whether the United States is abandoning Ukraine, given recent developments, including the U.S. siding with Russia and North Korea at the United Nations, refusing to condemn Russian aggression. Johnson denied that the U.S. was shifting its position.

No, theyre not abandoning Ukraine, Johnson stated. I saw Zelensky rather stiff-necked in the Oval Office instead of being gracious and saying, Thank you, and looking for a way out of this mess.

Johnson then suggested that if Zelensky does not return to negotiations with a more cooperative attitude, Ukraine may need new leadership.

Either he needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country to do that, Johnson said, emphasizing that it is ultimately up to Ukrainians to decide. He added that the war has gone on for too long, causing significant casualties, and that efforts should now focus on securing peace.

Welker followed up by asking if Johnson believed Putin should also step down.

So just to put a fine point on that, you are saying that it might be necessary for President Zelensky to step down and not Putin, she asked. Do you want to see Putin step down?

Johnson responded that he wants Putin defeated, but did not call for his removal.

Id like to see Putin defeated, frankly, he said. He is an adversary of the United States. But in this conflict, weve got to bring an end to this war. Its in everybodys interest.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
What should have been a quiet evening turned into a nightmare for Maurice Benaim, a Jewish man who was brutally beaten by a mob of bike-riding teenagers in a violent, unprovoked attack that left him injured and shaken.

Benaim had planned nothing more than a quick run to the store for tangerine juice and food before settling in. But as he stopped at an intersection near San Vicente Boulevard and Carillo Drive in Los Angeles, his night took a terrifying turn.

A swarm of 20 to 30 teens on bicycles had taken over the roadway. When Benaim honked his horn to signal the green light, the group became hostile, surrounding his vehicle. The situation escalated rapidlyone teen smashed his right taillight and another threatened that he had a gun in his bag.

Feeling trapped, Benaim got out of his car to confront the group, only to be met with a brutal beating. The teens threw him to the ground, delivering blows to his face and head as he struggled against the violent assault.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

Its a sad thing to have to deal with in general, Benaim told NBC Los Angeles. Im thankful to G-d that it wasnt worse, but no one should have to worry about this happening.

The attack ended only when bystanders intervened, causing the mob to scatter. Benaim, battered and bleeding, was left to grapple not only with physical injuries but also with the emotional trauma of the assault.

A photo shared by his brother on GoFundMe revealed a large bruise covering Benaims upper right eyelid, a painful reminder of the nights violence. The family launched the fundraiser to help cover the cost of medical bills, car repairs, and therapy to help Benaim cope with the severe psychological impact of the attack.

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed that two of the juvenile suspects involved in the attack were arrested on February 26 after authorities received a tip.

However, police have not released the names, ages, or charges of the two suspects. The search continues for others involved in the brutal assault.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
In a striking shift from his long-standing reputation as a vocal vaccine skeptic, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is urging Americans to get vaccinated against measles as a severe outbreak spreads across Texas.

In an opinion piece published on Fox News, Kennedy, once one of the nations most prominent anti-vaccine figures, warned of the dangers posed by measles and emphasized the importance of immunization in curbing the current outbreak.

The measles outbreak in Texas is a call to action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health, Kennedy wrote, citing 146 confirmed cases since late January, primarily in the South Plains region. The outbreak has already claimed the life of a school-aged childthe first measles-related fatality in the U.S. in over a decade.

Kennedys advocacy for vaccination marks a dramatic departure from his past statements, which frequently cast doubt on vaccine safety and government immunization programs. Now, as the nations top health official, he is overseeing the federal response to the measles surge and coordinating with Texas authorities to contain the outbreak.

I have spoken with Gov. Greg Abbott and Texas health officials, committing to providing them any additional support they need to bring this outbreak to an end, he stated.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) reports that 79 of the confirmed measles cases involved unvaccinated individuals, while 62 had an unknown vaccination status. Five of the cases were in individuals who had received at least one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Kennedy has directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) to provide technical assistance, laboratory support, vaccines, and therapeutic medications to affected areas.

In his op-ed, he described measles as a highly contagious respiratory illness that can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, blindness, and encephalitis. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in the 1960s, he noted, the virus infected an average of 530,217 people per year in the U.S., leading to 440 deaths annually.

Kennedy also acknowledged that improved sanitation and nutrition played a significant role in reducing measles deaths before vaccines became available but stressed that vaccination remains the most effective tool for preventing outbreaks.

For more information about measles prevention and vaccination, the CDC encourages the public to visit its official website or contact local health departments.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Sunday labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is allegedly Jewish, a pure Nazi and a traitor to the Jewish people.

Lavrovs incendiary remarks, published in Krasnaya Zvezda, the official newspaper of the Russian Ministry of Defense, align with Moscows ongoing propaganda campaign that has repeatedly sought to justify its brutal war on Ukraine by invoking World War II-era rhetoric.

Zelenskyy has turned 180 degrees from a man who came to power on slogans of peace and in six months has turned into a pure Nazi and, as Russian President [Vladimir] Putin correctly said, into a traitor to the Jewish people, Lavrov said in the interview.

The accusation follows Putins own claims in 2023, when he called Zelensky a disgrace to Jewish people, furthering the Kremlins attempts to paint Ukraines leadership as fascists.

Since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Moscow has repeatedly described Ukraines government as neo-Nazi in an effort to justify its aggression. Putin has framed his war as a campaign to de-Nazify Ukraine, despite the countrys democratically elected president being Jewish and having lost family members in the Holocaust.

Jewish organizations and world leaders have consistently condemned Russias misuse of Holocaust-era terminology, warning that such rhetoric distorts history and trivializes the real horrors of Nazi Germany. Israel, while carefully navigating its relationship with both Kyiv and Moscow, has distanced itself from these comparisons, rejecting both Zelenskys and the Kremlins attempts to equate the war with the Holocaust.

A spokesperson for Israels Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Lavrovs latest remarks.

This is not the first time Lavrov has invoked inflammatory and historically inaccurate claims about Jews and Nazism. In 2022, he sparked outrage when he insisted that Zelenskyys Jewish heritage did not preclude Nazi inclinations, citing a long-debunked conspiracy theory that Adolf Hitler had Jewish ancestry.

So when they say How can Nazification exist if were Jewish? In my opinion, Hitler also had Jewish origins, so it doesnt mean absolutely anything, Lavrov said at the time, further claiming that the biggest antisemites were Jewish.

Israel swiftly condemned those remarks as unforgivable, and the comments sparked a diplomatic crisis between Moscow and Jerusalem.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
This past Motzaei Shabbos, March 1st, Flatbush Chaveirim held its annual Member Appreciation Event, celebrating the tireless efforts of its 90+ volunteers who respond to thousands of emergency calls each year.

The event, organized by Zidele Events, Brooklyn Party Rental, and YW Productions, honored volunteers who assist the community 24/7 with car troubles, lockouts, and emergency equipment loans. In the past year alone, Chaveirim responded to 15,000 calls and lent out over 1,000 pieces of equipment to families in need. To meet growing demand, they recently expanded their team and storage facilities.

Distinguished guests, including NYPD officials, community leaders, and elected representatives, attended to express their gratitude. Awards were presented to members who handled over 1000 and 400 calls, as well as senior volunteers with 15+ years of service.

The evening underscored Chaveirims unwavering commitment to the community. With more members, resources, and dedication than ever, Flatbush Chaveirim continues to be a lifeline for those in need.

Photo Credit: Shua K. Studios

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
A terrorist who planned to bomb a shul and metro station in Moscow was killed in a gun battle with forces from Russias security services, Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) announced on Monday.

According to the announcement, a Muslim terrorist with Islamist views had acquired materials to manufacture explosive devices for the attacks and had carried out numerous surveillance operations of the shul and metro station.

The terrorist opened fire on FSB officers who tried to arrest him, leading to a gun battle which ended with the terrorists death. Officers searched his home and seized bomb assembly materials.

According to the statement, the terrorist was a Russian citizen but a native of a Central Asian country. He intended to flee to Afghanistan after perpetrating the attacks and join a terror group there.

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(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
A devastating car ramming attack struck the southwestern German city of Mannheim this morning, leaving at least one person dead and several others injured. The incident, which occurred around 8:30 AM local time at the bustling Paradeplatz square, saw a man drive a vehicle into a group of pedestrians, prompting a swift response from local police. The suspect has been arrested, but authorities have yet to release details about his identity or motive, though the attack has reignited concerns over a recent wave of Islamist-linked violence across Germany.

Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the car barreled into the crowd, sending people fleeing in all directions. Ferry Overdevest, a local flower shop owner, told reporters that approximately 30 individuals sought refuge in his store as ambulances rushed to the scene. It was terrifyingpeople were screaming, running for their lives, he said. Emergency services remain on site, treating the injured, while police have cordoned off the area and launched a major operation to investigate the circumstances.

Mannheim police confirmed the casualty toll in a brief statement: At least one person has been killed, and multiple others are injured. The driver is in custody, and we are working to determine whether additional perpetrators were involved. The exact number of injuries remains unclear, with some reports suggesting up to 25 people may have been affected, though these figures are unconfirmed.

This mornings attack marks the latest in a series of violent incidents in Germany, several of which have been tied to Islamist extremism. Just weeks ago, on February 13, a 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker drove a Mini Cooper into a labor union demonstration in Munich, injuring 39 people. Authorities later cited an Islamist motive after discovering extremist content on the suspects phone, though no direct links to terrorist organizations were found. In December 2024, a car ramming at a Christmas market in Magdeburg claimed six lives, though that attack was attributed to a Saudi doctor with far-right sympathies rather than Islamist ideology.

Mannheim itself is no stranger to such violence. In May 2024, an Afghan asylum seeker stabbed six people at an anti-Islam rally in the citys market square, killing a police officer with a wound to the neck. The attacker, identified as Sulaiman A., went on trial last month, with prosecutors pointing to Islamist motives. That incident, coupled with todays attack, has heightened local fears and drawn national attention to the city of 320,000.

Germany has faced a troubling uptick in extremist violence in recent months, much of it linked to Islamist motives. The May 2024 Mannheim stabbing, the August 2024 Solingen knife attack that killed three, and the February Munich ramming have fueled a heated debate over immigration and security ahead of the countrys February 23 federal elections. Posts on X this morning reflected public alarm, with some users noting the timingcoinciding with the start of Ramadan and Germanys carnival season, periods when police are already on high alert due to past threats from groups like the Islamic State.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz condemned the attack in a statement on X, calling it horrific and vowing that the perpetrator will face the full force of the law. Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann echoed this sentiment, urging a thorough investigation into potential extremist ties. We cannot allow such acts to become commonplace, he said during a press briefing.

The motive behind todays attack remains under investigation, with authorities cautious about drawing premature conclusions. However, posts on X have speculated about an Islamist connection, with some claiming the suspect shouted Allahu Akbar during the incidenta detail unconfirmed by official sources at this time. Police have promised further updates as the investigation unfolds.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The U.S. Treasury Department announced it will not enforce a Biden-era small business rule intended to curb money laundering and shell company formation.

In a Sunday evening announcement, Treasury said in a news release that it will not impose penalties now or in the future if companies fail to register for the agencys beneficial ownership information database that was created during the Biden administration.

Despite efforts by small businesses to undue the rule in the courts, it remains in effect.

On Sunday, President Donald Trump on his Truth Social media site praised the suspension of enforcement of the rule and said the database is outrageous and invasive.

This Biden rule has been an absolute disaster for Small Businesses Nationwide, he said. The economic menace of BOI reporting will soon be no more.

In September 2022, the Treasury Department started rulemaking to create a database that would contain personal information on the owners of at least 32 million U.S. businesses as part of an effort to combat shell company formations and illicit finance.

The rule required most American businesses with fewer than 20 employees to register their business owners with the government as of Jan. 1, 2024. Small businesses are targeted because shell companies, often used to hide illegally obtained assets, tend to have few employees.

Treasury officials, including former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, said the regulatory burden would be small, costing about $85 per business, but would offer benefits to law enforcement officials seeking to track down money launderers and other criminals. She said in January 2024 that more than 100,000 businesses had filed beneficial ownership information with Treasury.

The rule and its legislative authority  the Corporate Transparency Act, an anti-money laundering statue passed in 2021  have been mired in litigation. In 2022, a small business lobbying group sued to block the Treasury Departments requirement that tens of millions of small businesses register with the government. On Feb. 27, Treasurys Financial Crimes and Enforcement Network said it would not take enforcement actions against companies that do not file beneficial ownership data with the agency.

Business leaders cite privacy and security concerns about the database and say it is duplicitous to other government agencies that maintain corporate databases.

This is a victory for common sense, said U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent on Sunday. Todays action is part of President Trumps bold agenda to unleash American prosperity by reining in burdensome regulations, in particular for small businesses that are the backbone of the American economy.

(AP)
Legendary folk-rock musician Neil Young has announced his intention to hold a free concert in Ukraine. This information was posted on his official website, but the exact date and venue remain unknown.

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It is expected that the performance will take place before June 18, when the scheduled part of the tour in Sweden starts. In his message, Young noted that negotiations are currently underway to organize the concert, and concluded the announcement with the words "Keep on Rockin' in the FREE WORLD".

"Neil Young and Chrome Hearts will open the upcoming European Love Earth Tour in Ukraine with a free concert for everyone! We are currently negotiating and will announce the details here in New York. Keep on rocking in the FREE WORLD," the band says on its website.

The musician probably made this decision after the recent visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the United States. Young himself has repeatedly spoken out against the current American leader Donald Trump and strongly supported Ukraine, calling the war unleashed by Russia "the madness of an old dictator."

ADVERTISIMENT

Neil Young began his career in the 1960s and gained worldwide fame as a solo artist and member of Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. His albums Harvest, After the Gold Rush, and Rust Never Sleeps went down in rock history, and Young himself was nicknamed the "Godfather of Grunge" for his influence on a generation of alternative rockers.

He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, is a Grammy and Juno Award winner, and Rolling Stone ranked him 30th among the world's greatest guitarists in 2023.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
In his most difficult moments  and who hasnt had such moments since the outbreak of the war in Israel  Israels outgoing ambassador to Washington Mike Herzog drew strength from the Mekoros HaKedoshim, Yisrael Hayom reported.

In the most alarming hours, he would turn to Perek 83 in Tehillim: G-d, do not be silent to You, do not be quiet and do not be still, O G-d They said, Come, and let us annihilate them from the nation, and the name of Israel shall no longer be remembered.'

He knew the second source from his fathers house, or to be precise, from his grandfather. In the spring of 1941, the Nazi army stood at the gates of Eretz Yisrael and there was real fear over the continued existence of the Jewish yishuv. Then-Chief Rabbi Yitzchak Halevi Herzog, Mikes grandfather, expressed his famous stance that there wont be a third Churban. Eighty-one years later, when Israel found itself in an existential situation, the grandson returned to his grandfathers words.

In an extensive interview with Yisrael Hayom, Herzog revealed many disturbing details about the Biden administrations stance toward Israel since October 7.

For example, when Iran directly attacked Israel for the first time, Herzog said that the Biden administration ordered Israel not to retaliate. We responded that it doesnt work like that in the Middle East, and that for us, its an existential situation, Herzog said.

But the problems began way before then, from the beginning of the war in Gaza. Although Biden initially expressed ardent support for Israel and even visited Israel after the war broke out, as time went by, the pressures increased and we entered a more complex discourse about the management of the war, the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, and the collateral damage, Herzog said. This led to a situation where every decision-making process was accompanied by a complex and charged discussion with them and we were forced to intervene and mediate between the governments daily.

There were difficult moments and there were times when they went crazy. More than once, they really attacked me and said, Youre crazy, youve lost your minds, how could you do something that would lead to escalation? You will drag us into war because you didnt think it through, and then you will ask us to come and rescue you. There were tough arguments about things Israel did that, in their eyes, were a step too far.

We had to contain it so they wouldnt blow up. We explained that we didnt want to put them in a position where they would say no, and we would still go ahead and do it. I told them, Therefore, it is better not to say. I also asked them, What would you have said if I had updated you in advance? Would you have agreed or not? Or, How would you have reacted if someone had done this or that to you? Now look, if all this had developed into a regional escalation that they were afraid of  fine, but it didnt happen. Therefore, we got through the crisis. In the end, they understood that Israels achievements against Iran and Hezbollah served their interests.

Herzog added that despite the Biden administrations constant warnings of restraint, when Israel ignored them and successfully deterred its enemies, Biden had the chutzpah to take credit for it!

An absurd situation was created. They told us to beware and not to respond to Iran but at the end, they wanted credit for the successes and also said: The situation in the Middle East is much better because we supported Israel. But they didnt support those operations at the time.

Herzog also acknowledged the injustice the Biden administration perpetrated by applying heavy pressure on Israel regarding supplying aid to Gaza, using the false claim that there was a humanitarian crisis.

Herzog clarified that in general, the Biden administration did provide substantial support to Israel during the war but in his words, crossed a line by freezing a shipment of heavy bombs. The Biden administration also did not stand up to hostile elements in the State Department.

They sent a substantial amount of ammunition, assisted twice in defense against Iran, stood by our side in international courts [but did not agree to sanction them like Trump], and used its veto power at the UN more than once, Herzog said. There was one time they crossed the line, which was the delay of 2,000-pound bombs because of Rafah. This was also done in an inappropriate manner, and these were munitions that were very important to Israel at that time. Now Trump released them. On this issue, they made a big mistake. Who today remembers Rafah? There were additional delays that occurred later, not because of political decisions but as a result of bureaucratic delays in the State Department where there are hostile elements towards Israel.

There were quite a few hostile elements in the State Department who put sticks in the wheels of every Israeli request. Hostile bureaucracy. There are islands of those who support us and helped. But there are those who do not like us, there are those who dislike us very much, there are those who dislike us very, very much, and there are many anti-Israel elements. The shipments we managed to release were the result of very hard work with the help of friendly elements. But there are shipments that remained stuck until the end, and that is serious because delaying such things to an ally during a war is something that shouldnt happen.

Herzog also revealed a very disturbing reality  that he learned that there is a special legal department in the State Department that monitors Israels use of US weapons.

During the war, it became clear to us that there is a dedicated office in the State Department that only deals with Israel in the context of the Leahy Laws (U.S. human rights laws that prohibit the U.S. Department of State and Department of Defense from providing military assistance to foreign security force units that violate human rights with impunity.) Herzog said. Im not sure if it was established because of the war, but there is no such office for any other country in the world. This office checks if Israel meets the criteria of the Leahy Laws. Reports came from this office claiming that two IDF units should be sanctioned.

It was here that Herzog told Yisrael Hayom new and jaw-dropping details. It turns out that the U.S. almost imposed sanctions on the secret 504 intelligence unit. This unit recruits and operates agents who conduct reconnaissance operations in enemy territories and obtain up-to-date intelligence for the IDFs operational needs. In many cases, information collected by 504 was transmitted in real-time to forces on the ground on both fronts, saving the lives of soldiers, leading to the discovery of tunnels and weapons caches, and contributing information about hostages.

Secretary of State Tony Blinken stood on the verge of deciding to impose sanctions on an Israeli military unit twice, Herzog said. The first was against the Netzach Yehuda Battalion. Gallant spoke with him, and it didnt help. I took steps behind the scenes to prevent Blinken from doing so. Among other things, he wrote to House Speaker Mike Johnson that Netzach Yehuda wasnt fighting in Gaza, but at that time, the battalion was indeed fighting in Gaza. I told his people, Youre wrong and embarrassing yourselves. This is a unit that is fighting in Gaza. There were other sensitive moves. We managed to convince them to start a dialogue to closely investigate the allegations against the unit, and in the end, no sanctions were imposed. We stopped it at the last minute.

In the second case, he had already decided. They investigated what happened in Sde Teiman and decided sanctions should be imposed on the two units that served there. With intense behind-the-scenes efforts, we managed to prevent him at the last moment from bringing the axe down. I dont want to get into details about how, but we used various people and entities, and it was a tough effort. Lets just say that there were good people, including at the top, who worked with us in collaboration and were part of the solution. I wont mention names to avoid harm.

Another outrageous step the Biden administration took against Israel was the imposition of unprecedented sanctions against Israeli citizens, mainly in Yehudah and Shomron, under the claim that they were acting violently. Now it can be revealed that Herzog  a person known for his moderate character  was furious with the Americans. For the first time, he explains why.

Without notifying us in advance, they issued a presidential directive whose wording was very broad and included anyone who harms peace and stability. This is an absurd formulation. My claim was that if the violence from Israelis in the Shomron truly bothers them, they should do it the right way. Because the way they are going now achieves the opposite result. The process by which they obtained information about those individuals was flawed. They imposed sanctions on people whom our security services said were not the right targets and not the ones causing problems on the ground. At times, they even harmed operational activities in the field. And there was also an impact on peoples livelihood. I think their handling of this issue was less professional and more political.

As mentioned, they were mostly concerned about a regional war, and they had many questions regarding the matter. However, towards the end, as the elections approached, we felt and saw the political pressure being added to the relationship. We saw their attempts to maneuver between the pro-Israel instinct and the anti-Israeli pressure from within the Democratic party and parts of the State Department, Herzog concluded.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a statement today expressing gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for his steadfast support of Israel, hailing him as the countrys greatest ally ever to occupy the White House. The remarks come amid ongoing tensions in the Gaza Strip, where Israel has accepted a temporary ceasefire proposal brokered by Trumps envoy, Steve Witkoff, while Hamas has so far rejected it.

In his statement, Netanyahu highlighted Trumps contributions to Israels security and regional strategy. President Trump shows that friendship each and every day, Netanyahu said, pointing to Trumps visionary plan for Gaza, which Israel has fully endorsed. He also credited the U.S. leader with releasing previously delayed munitions shipments, equipping Israel with the tools we need to finish the job against Irans terror axis. Additionally, Netanyahu praised Trumps diplomatic pressure on Hamas to secure the release of hostages, a key sticking point in the conflict.

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The ceasefire plan, proposed by Witkoff, calls for a 50-day extension of the current temporary truce. Under its terms, half of the hostages held by Hamas would be freed immediately, with the remainder released if negotiations for a permanent ceasefire succeed. Israel has accepted this plan. I accepted this plan, Netanyahu emphasized. However, he noted that Hamas has rejected the proposal and put forward its own demands for a permanent ceasefire, which he described as totally unacceptable.

Netanyahu also announced a significant policy shift, revealing that Israel has halted the flow of goods and supplies into Gaza for the past 42 days. He justified the move by accusing Hamas of stealing the resources to fund its terror machine rather than allowing them to reach Gazas civilian population. This we cannot accept, he stated, warning that Israel would take further action if Hamas continues to hold hostages.

Throughout his address, Netanyahu underscored the importance of U.S. backing, declaring, Israel knows that America and President Trump have our back. He concluded with a message of appreciation to Trump for his efforts to secure the hostages release, strengthen Israels security, and pave the way for a future of prosperity and peace for all the peoples of the Middle East.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Emily Damari, who was held hostage by Hamas for 471 days, underwent a series of surgeries on Sunday to treat severe wounds inflicted on her by the Palestinian terrorist group during her captivity in Gaza.

Damari, who was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during Hamass October 7, 2023, massacre, sustained significant injuries, including the loss of two fingers after being shot by terrorists. Her surgeries, performed at Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, aimed to address complications from untreated wounds she endured while held in Gazas underground tunnel network.

Speaking ahead of her procedures, Damari said she fully embraced her scars, viewing them as symbols of freedom, hope, and strength.

My recovery will take time, and my hand will never fully heal, but the intense pain I had for a year and a half due to the nerves being sewn together after my first operation at Shifa Hospital in Gaza is now no longer with me, she stated.

She described the brutal conditions of her captivity, including months spent in Hamass tunnel system without sanitation or clean water. One of her wounds remained open and festering for four months due to the unsanitary environment.

Damaris mother, Mandy, revealed that Hamas provided her daughter with no medical care beyond an expired bottle of iodine. It is nothing short of a miracle that she did not contract a life-threatening infection, she said, adding that Emily had been sewn up like a pin cushion while in Gaza.

Damari was among three Israeli hostages released on January 19, 2025, as part of a ceasefire agreement. Upon her return, she was airlifted to Sheba Medical Center, where doctors reported that while her physical condition was stable, she, like many other hostages, had suffered extreme malnutrition and trauma.

Reflecting on her release, Damari spoke of the horrifying state of other hostages. It was shocking but not surprising to see how emaciated some of the other hostages were when they came out. Hamas has created hell on Earththe conditions down there are unimaginable, she said.

She also issued a plea for continued efforts to secure the release of those still held in Gaza, calling for urgent action to free her close friends, twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, who were kidnapped alongside her on October 7.

I want to thank President [Donald] Trump again for securing the deal to get me home. Please help us to bring home Gali, Ziv, and all of the remaining hostages before it is too late for them, she urged.

According to Israeli assessments, at least 59 hostages remain in Gaza. Of these, 24 are believed to be aliveall menwhile 35, including three women, are presumed dead. Among the remaining hostages, two of the living and three of the deceased are foreign nationals.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
The Iran-backed Houthi terrorist group in Yemen has issued a chilling threat, vowing to target Tel Aviv with missile strikes if Israel resumes military operations against Hamas in Gaza.

Houthi leader Abdul-Malik al-Houthi made the declaration in a statement marking the start of Ramadan, warning that his forces would unleash a barrage of attacks against Israeli cities should fighting in Gaza reignite.

If war returns to Gaza, we will rain fire upon all areas of the enemy regime [Israel], especially Tel Aviv, which is known as occupied Jaffa, al-Houthi said, according to Turkiye Today.

The threat escalates tensions in an already volatile region, as the Houthis have steadily expanded their attacks since Hamass October 7 massacre in Israel. In the wake of that attack, the Houthiswho call themselves Ansar Allahhave launched hundreds of drones and missiles not only at Israel but also at commercial cargo ships navigating the Red Sea.

The Houthis, who control much of northern Yemen, have become a key player in Irans proxy network, using their military arsenal to disrupt regional stability. Their latest threat follows a February 11 statement in which al-Houthi declared that his forces were ready to respond immediately should Israeli strikes on Gaza resume.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has re-designated the Houthis as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), restoring their status after the Biden administration previously removed them from the list in 2021. The move reflects Washingtons growing concern over the Houthis aggressive military actions and their direct ties to Tehran.

Since aligning with Hamas in the wake of the October 7 attack, the Houthis have shifted from a regional insurgency to a major threat to international security, targeting global shipping lanes in the Red Sea. Their missile and drone attacks on commercial vessels have forced military responses from the U.S. and its allies, with American and British forces striking Houthi positions in recent months.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
An Israeli-Arab was murdered and at least four people were injured in a stabbing attack at the Mifratz bus station in Haifa shortly before 10 a.m. on Monday.

The victim was later identified as Hasan Dahamshe, 70, from Kafr Kanna, an Israeli-Arab village in the Galil.

The death of Dahamshe, who was stabbed in his back multiple times, was determined at the scene.

The injured victims, a man and woman in their 30s and a 15-year-old teenager in serious condition, and a woman in her 70s in moderate condition, were treated at the scene and evacuated to Rambam Hospital in the city. According to the hospital, the victims were all treated in the trauma room upon arrival and the critically injured victim, the 15-year-old, was rushed into surgery.

Initial reports said the attack was carried out by two terrorists armed with guns and knives but subsequent reports said that there was one terrorist armed with a knife. Initial reports also said that an armed security guard shot the terrorist and neutralized him.

The terrorist was shot and killed by civilians at the scene. He was later identified as Yitro Shahin, a 20-year-old Druze-Israeli from Shfaram, an Arab city in northern Israel with a large Druze minority population. He also held German citizenship and in fact, grew up in Germany. According to his relatives, he suffered from mental illness. His uncle told Ynet that at least two members of the family served in the IDF and no one in the family harbors anti-Israel sentiment.

He reportedly traveled to the scene by bus and began stabbing fellow passengers upon arriving at the station. He then disembarked from the bus and continued his stabbing rampage until he was shot and neutralized. A witness to the scene said that the terrorist was shouting Allahu Akbar as he stabbed people.

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(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Seven freed Israeli hostages flew to Washington on Monday ahead of a scheduled meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington.

As YWN reported, Eli Sharabis brother Sharon announced that his brother is flying to Washington to meet with Trump. Israeli media reports said on Monday that six other freed hostages joined Eli on the trip and will also meet with Trump: Omer Shem Tov, Yair Horn, Naama Levy, Doron Steinbrecher and Keith Siegel and his wife Aviva, who spent two months in captivity before being released in the November 2023 deal.

The group was flown to Washington on the private plane of philanthropist Miriam Adelson, who arranged the visit. Adelson is one of Trumps top donors and can be assumed to have considerable influence on his policies.

Adelson is known for being deeply involved in the battle to release the hostages. Walla reported on Monday that those close to her say that she is determined that Trump will do everything he can to bring back the remaining hostages.

If my child or grandchild was abducted  I would move mountains, Adelson said. Speaking in the inaugural episode of a podcast by her own daughter, entrepreneur Yasmin Lukatz, Adelson added: When Im asked how Im doing, I say fine, and but, and that but is what weighs on all of our shoulders right now.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Drivers say they have been unfairly asked to pay hundreds of pounds due to 'faulty' parking machines.

Private parking company Euro Car Parks has been accused of demanding drivers pay charges of 100 after its ticket machines incorrectly recorded vehicle registrations.

Motorists using the machines enter their registration details when they purchase a ticket - a system used across the UK - but argue the machines are faulty and recording registrations wrong.

This has left drivers being sent parking charge notices despite insisting they've followed the instructions, because there's no record of payment when their number plates are identified by cameras.

Affected motorists told the PA news agency they are being 'bullied' by Euro Car Parks despite buying tickets to use Syston Town Square car park in Leicestershire.

One said they would 'rather go to prison' than pay more money.

Euro Car Parks' machines like this one are reportedly incorrectly recording registration numbers leaving motorists facing 'unfair' 100 parking notice charges

A video posted online appears to show a woman typing her registration into the keypad on one of the car park's two machines, but different numbers and letters are displayed on the screen.

The RAC described the situation as 'scandalous' and warned it has received reports of similar problems elsewhere.

There is growing criticism of the private parking industry over claims of aggressive debt collection, misleading and confusing signage, and unreasonable fees.

More than 130 Facebook users have joined a group for people unhappy with their treatment after using Syston Town Square car park.

Many have received PCNs each worth 100, and had their appeals rejected by Euro Car Parks despite some providing evidence that a ticket was purchased.

The amount of money being demanded increases as drivers continue to refuse to pay, with some reporting being asked for sums such as 900, 680, 570 and 400, as well as receiving threats of court action and visits from bailiffs.

Motorist Debbie Dinckal said car park users `feel bullied (Joe Giddens/PA) after being asked to pay 100 and having appeals rejected

While the 'unfair' situation in Leicestershire has caught attention, the RAC says it is happening across the country

Single mother Debbie Dinckal, 55, created the group after receiving a PCN following her visit to the car park in June 2023.

Euro Car Parks rejected her appeal even though she sent the company a photo of her ticket, which is missing the final three letters of her registration.

She was later sent an offer to settle the issue for 20  which she declined  and a debt collection company is now demanding 170.

Ms Dinckal said: 'You feel bullied and frustrated because there's nowhere to go.

'If they were trying to take money out of your bank account, you could go to the police or your bank.

'But you're in a position where you're just repeating yourself saying, 'I've got a ticket, I've got a ticket', and they will say, 'No, you need to pay it'.'

Ms Dinckal said: 'I think they're faulty machines.'

I have sent them countless photographs of my ticket which shows that I had paid Kenneth Pruden

She added many people are accepting settlement offers as they 'don't want the hassle'.

One group member wrote that they have set up a 50 monthly payment plan 'as my credit score has been affected'.

Another driver, Kenneth Pruden, 77, was sent a PCN in August 2022 after the registration printed on the ticket he purchased had one wrong letter.

He said: 'We're pensioners, we may well have put a wrong digit in, but it could equally have been the machine at fault.

'I have sent them countless photographs of my ticket which shows that I had paid.

'I had mediation where they offered to come down from 280 to 260.

'I declined their offer and was told I would have to go to court.

'I would rather go to prison than pay a penny.'

Analysis of Government data shows it handed out 1.7 million parking charge notices to drivers in Britain in the year to the end of March 2024

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said: 'It's scandalous that so many people over so many years who've legitimately paid to use this car park have been issued 100 parking charge notices because of a fault with the payment machines.

'Sadly, we've heard reports of this happening at other car parks too.

'Many have appealed and have staggeringly been rejected. Others have been sent threats from debt collection firms, adding 70 to the bill, forcing them to pay up for fear of the cost escalating even more.

'A private parking company should not be able to intimidate people like this, especially when the fault lies with them.'

Mr Williams urged Euro Car Parks to 'do the right thing' and write off all PCNs where people have legitimately paid for parking.

He also called on industry body the British Parking Association  of which Euro Car Parks is a member  to 'intervene to ensure this doesn't happen again'.

Euro Car Parks manages more than 3,000 car parks across the UK and Ireland.

The company's latest published accounts show it made a pre-tax profit of 12.5million in 2023.

Analysis of Government data shows it handed out 1.7million parking charge notices to drivers in Britain in the year to the end of March 2024.

Euro Car Parks did not respond to requests for a comment from PA.

The BPA has said that is investigating the car park and will comment when the investigation is completed.

The Government needs to introduce a 'code of conduct' for parking firms

There are fresh calls for a Government-backed code of conduct to be reintroduced to stop fat cat parking firms unfairly charging motorists.

Off the back of the Syston Town parking problem RAC head of policy Simon Williams said that the industry's code of practice 'isn't working.'

A Bill to enable the introduction of a Government-backed code for private parking companies received royal assent under the Conservative government in March 2019.

It was withdrawn in June 2022 after a legal challenge by parking companies.

RAC head of policy Simon Williams said that the industry's code of practice 'isn't working' and calls for a government code of conduct

The code included halving the cap on tickets for most parking offences to 50, creating a fairer appeals system and banning the use of aggressive language on tickets.

Two industry bodies, the British Parking Association (BPA) and the International Parking Community (IPC), jointly introduced their own code in June 2024.

The industry's code was updated last month to tell signatories they should stop issuing tickets when drivers take too long to pay after arriving, as long as they pay before they leave.

This applies to privately owned car parks where fixed cameras monitor when cars enter and exit.

Mr Williams commented: 'We badly need the Government's code to finally come into force to protect drivers.

'Sadly, even though an Act of Parliament was introduced in 2019, the official code has been delayed by nearly six years.'
There are $300billion of Russian assets in the UK and the EU but the issue of whether we should seize rather than just freeze them, remains up for debate.

Members of cross-party groups over the weekend called for the immediate confiscation of these assets to pay for the defence and ultimate rebuilding of Ukraine following the extraordinary scenes at the White House on Friday.

There has, however, been a hesitancy on this point. As a consequence, although the interest on the assets  about a tenth of which are in the UK, the bulk in Europe  is being used to help the Ukraine war effort, the principal has been left untouched.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves said over the weekend that the 2billion loan the UK is extending to Ukraine will be repaid from the 'profits' on frozen Russian assets, which is in line with that approach.

The qualms about seizure are based on whether such a move would be legal  as if that kind of thing bothers Putin  and on fears it could deter other foreign governments from depositing their assets here.

That in turn could undermine the status of sterling and the euro as reserve currencies. Whether we should be so concerned about being given a cold shoulder by rogue states is a different debate.

Double act: Defence is a major source of high value, skilled jobs in the regions - Labour recognises this

While we ponder such niceties, the Russians seem to be moving ahead. A draft bill with a procedure for the Kremlin to take foreign property was approved last month by the government's legislative activity committee, according to Reuters. As well as the latest loan to Ukraine, Reeves is also changing the rules on the 27.8billion National Wealth Fund so it can be spent on defence as well as on infrastructure and green energy.

Increasing defence spending to the levels needed will be an extraordinary challenge for the Chancellor when the public finances are already so constrained, but it will have to be done.

There are other moves the Government can make. Any further attempt by US private equity group Bain Capital for UK defence company Chemring must be stopped in its tracks. Flogging off a company such as this to a US owner at this time would be absurd.

Selling our best defence companies to the Americans, regardless of their reliability or otherwise as an ally, risks harming the economy. Defence is a major source of high value, skilled jobs in the regions: it accounts for 164,000 employees and 8,000 apprentices, most of them outside London and the South East. Labour recognises this. A defence industrial strategy was in its manifesto and was followed by a statement of intent. This needs to be backed by action.

Those investors shunning defence on ESG  Environmental, Social and Governance  grounds need to give their heads a wobble.

As General Sir Roly Walker, the head of the Army, observed recently, ESG rules lump defence investment in the same category as tobacco, gambling and pornography.

That is an insult to the men and women in our Armed Forces, who need a strong defence industry behind them.

Chancellor Reeves also needs to move faster to try to address the issues such as stamp duty on share trades that are depressing the valuations of UK-listed companies.

Failing to do so is tantamount to putting a For Sale sign on large tracts of UK Plc, including defence.

Finance can be a powerful weapon in a world that becomes more dangerous by the day.
The Government has said it will ban the sale of new leasehold flats in England and Wales.

Housing minister Matthew Pennycook described the system as 'feudal' while announcing plans to move to the commonhold system, which is already standard for apartment owners in Scotland and other parts of the world.

There are around 5million leaseholders in England and Wales, most of whom live in flats  though there are leasehold houses which are often on managed estates.

Under leasehold, a freeholder owns the building and the land it is built on, and leaseholders purchase the right to occupy it for a certain period of time  for example, a 120-year lease.

They also pay service charges to the freeholder for maintenance of the common areas.

This practice has come under fire in recent years as leaseholders have complained of inflated charges and a lack of transparency.

Changes: The Labour Government has said it will ban new flats from being sold leasehold

Leasehold service charges saw a record annual increase in 2024, according to the estate agent Hamptons.

Leaseholders may also pay a ground rent, something which is set to be banned under the proposed reforms.

Under commonhold, each flat owner would own the freehold of their home, but also have shared responsibility for common areas and upkeep.

The Commonhold White Paper published by the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government states that commonhold will be 'reinvigorated' through a new legal framework and the sale of new leasehold flats will be prohibited.

Ending the leasehold system was included in Labour's election manifesto.

What about those who already own a leasehold?

Questions have been raised over what the changes mean for those who already own leasehold homes.

Pennycook said: 'This Government promised not only to provide immediate relief to leaseholders suffering now but to do what is necessary to bring the feudal leasehold system to an end  and that is precisely what we are doing.

'By taking decisive steps to reinvigorate commonhold and make it the default tenure, we will ensure that it is homeowners, not third-party landlords, who will own the buildings they live in and have a greater say in how their home is managed and the bills they pay.

'These reforms mark the beginning of the end for a system that has seen millions of homeowners subject to unfair practices and unreasonable costs at the hands of their landlords.'

Katie Kendrick is a children's nurse from Ellesmere Port who is the founder of the National Leasehold Campaign.

She said: 'While focusing on preventing future leasehold abuses is crucial, it's equally vital to address the plight of existing leaseholders currently bound by the inequitable leasehold system.

'Commonhold conversion mechanisms are essential to offer an escape route for those trapped, alongside tackling issues like existing ground rents, reforming the valuation process for enfranchisement and regulating managing agents.'

The Government has said it is 'determined' to make conversion to commonhold easier for existing leaseholders.

However, this could be a challenge because it would most likely require freeholders to give up their ownership of existing buildings, and the income they receive from ground rents and lease renewals.

A draft Leasehold and Commonhold Reform Bill, which will include the detail of how reformed commonhold will work, will be published later this year, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has said.
A major high street bank is cutting mortgage rates across its range.

From tomorrow, Barclays will be reducing its rates by as much as 0.48 percentage points for home buyers.

The changes will include a market leading five-year fix for those buying with at least a 40 per cent deposit.

It has a rate of 3.96 per cent, meaning that on a 200,000 mortgage being repaid over 25 years they would pay 1,051 a month.

However, it does come with a catch as home buyers will only be eligible if their property is highly energy efficient.

Green Home mortgages: Barclays customers who are buying an energy-efficient new-build home directly from the builder or developer can secure preferential rates

The 3.96 per cent 'green deal,' which comes with an 899 fee, is available to people buying a new-build home directly from the builder or developer.

It must have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of A or B.

The lower priced 'green' options are also available to those buying with smaller deposits.

For example, someone buying with a 10 per cent deposit can fix for five years at 4.52 per cent from tomorrow - also a best buy.

Barclays' changes will also benefit those buying homes that don't meet its green criteria.

From tomorrow, Barclays will be offering the lowest standard two-year fix on the market for those buying with a 15 per cent deposit.

Its rate will be dropping from 4.65 per cent to 4.49 per cent with a 899 fee attached.

For those able to buy with a 25 per cent deposit, Barclays' lowest rate will fall to 4.19 per cent from tomorrow, with an 899 fee.

The next lowest rate after that is offered by First Direct at 4.24 per cent, albeit with a lower 490 fee.

The bank is also increasing the maximum loan amount available for those buying with 10 per cent deposits for both houses and flats.

The maximum mortgage for houses has increased from 570,000 to 640,000, while the cap for flats has increased from 275,000 to 310,000.

Barclays will also be offering a two-year fix at 4.93 per cent rate for those buying with a 10 per cent deposit. This is just shy of Virgin Money's 4.87 per cent deal with a 995 fee.

Those fixing for five years with a 10 per cent deposit can secure a rate of 4.62 per cent - which matches Virgin Money's best rate.

Sian McIntyre, managing director of mortgages and savings at Barclays, said: 'With bills and costs rising, we know how challenging homebuyers are finding things right now.

'Weve introduced several rate drops already this year across our mortgage range, making a real difference in affordability, and were delighted to announce more rate cuts.

'This includes bringing our green home mortgage even further below 4 per cent, making it the lowest five-year fixed rate available on the market.'
On February 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump held rather tense talks, during which reporter Brian Glenn decided to poke fun at the Ukrainian guarantor. The journalist reproached the leader of our country for not wearing a business suit to the meeting, which allegedly showed his disrespect. The American blogger Keith Edwards responded to the media outlet's reproach, noting that such a "joke" in the Oval Office was inappropriate, as Zelensky's outfit has a certain symbolism.

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He wrote about this on his Instagram page. According to the Internet personality, the Ukrainian president's clothes serve as an indicator that, unfortunately, terrible events are happening in his country.

"Zelensky didn't wear a suit because he is lazy or doesn't care about who he is meeting with. This is not a sign of disrespect. To some extent, he is doing this as an act of protest. On the other hand, he does it to let the world know that when he holds meetings on the international stage, like in the Oval Office, and wears a suit, it indicates that everything is fine for him in his country. But this is not the case. Everything has been wrong for a long time," the blogger said.

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In addition, Keith Edwards noted that he was outraged by the behavior of US Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House talks. According to the Internet activist, he sincerely does not understand why the politician reproached Volodymyr Zelensky for allegedly not being grateful to American statesmen for their support. The blogger noted that such statements are absolute nonsense, as the leader of Ukraine has repeatedly expressed his gratitude.

"In addition, J.D. Vance said to Zelensky: "You have never been grateful to us." First of all, this is a lie. Zelensky thanked America many times. Secondly, I don't know why Zelensky should thank Vance, because he did not vote for financial support for Ukraine. He was against it," Edwards summarized.

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As a reminder, during the talks at the White House, reporter Brian Glenn asked the Ukrainian president a question: "Why don't you wear a suit? You are visiting the headquarters of this country and you refuse to wear a suit. I just want to check if you have a suit. Many Americans are outraged that you don't respect the dignity of the US presidential administration."

It turned out that this journalist is a representative of the pro-Trump network Real America's Voice. Among his "achievements" is a relationship with Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Green, who spread pro-Kremlin narratives about "biolabs in Ukraine" and accused our country of "Nazism" and "torture of civilians."

Earlier, OBOZ.UA reported that world stars supported Zelensky after tense negotiations in the White House.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Blue Ghost private lander, which made a historic landing on the Moon yesterday, March 2, has deployed an X-band antenna. This allows for faster transmission of high-definition images and video to Earth.

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Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost has already managed to transmit several spectacular views of the Earth from the lunar surface. However, the main event of the mission will take place on March 14, when the lander will capture high-definition images of a total eclipse as the Earth blocks the Sun, Space.com reports.

"The #BlueGhost X-band antenna is deployed! This will allow us to transmit high-definition images and video, as well as payload science data back to Earth faster," Firefly Aerospace representatives said on their official website.

As a reminder, Blue Ghost landed in the lunar Mare Crisium, performing two maneuvers to avoid danger and achieving a precise landing within 100 meters of its target area near the Mons Latreille volcanic basin.

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Blue Ghost became the second private spacecraft to make a soft landing on the Moon. The first was Odysseus by Intuitive Machines, which accomplished this feat in February 2024.

Immediately after the landing, Blue Ghost, which is 3 meters high and 3.5 meters wide, began sending photos from the surface of the Earth's satellite. The first photo shows the surface of the Moon.

And the second image shows the lander, with a pale blue dot reflected on its panels  this is our native Earth. "We are all in this picture," NASA representatives said.

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The lander has begun its 14-day mission, the equivalent of one full lunar day. "These 14 days are going to be really challenging, and we're going to work hard to deliver all the science data from all 10 payloads," said Jason Kim, CEO of Firefly Aerospace.

According to experts, Blue Ghost has pulled 10 NASA payloads to the lunar surface for its current mission, called Ghost Riders in the Sky. These instruments are designed to do a variety of work, from studying radiation levels at the landing site to testing new and better ways to collect and store lunar dirt and rock samples.

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The main event of the mission, however, will take place on March 14, when the module will capture high-definition images of the total eclipse from the lunar surface as our planet blocks the Sun. From Earth, during the eclipse, our satellite will have an eerie, blood-red color, astronomers say.

And on March 16, the lander will document the sunset on the Moon and study how levitating dust reacts to solar activity, a phenomenon first observed during Apollo 17.

As a reminder, Blue Ghost was launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket on January 15, along with another private Resilience lander from Tokyo-based ispace, which is in the final stages of its flight to the Earth's satellite.

It is known that the Firefly mission is part of an unprecedented surge in private lunar exploration. It will also be joined by an Intuitive Machines vehicle called Athena. It launched to the Moon on February 26 on a Falcon 9 rocket. Athena is scheduled to land on March 6 near the south pole of the Moon.

Interestingly, this lander will also deploy a jumping spacecraft and a small rover.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Classic hatchbacks are not very popular in Ukraine. But crossovers are actively attracting buyers. The budget model Renault Kardian 2025 seems to be the perfect car against this background thanks to its preparation for bad roads.

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The car was announced on the manufacturer's website. The new Renault Kardian has entered the Ukrainian market with a price lower than the Duster. The car has increased ground clearance and is positioned as a city crossover. It is the successor to the Sandero Stepway.

The price of Renault Kardian starts from UAH 722,900. The car has a modern, neat design and an economical 100-horsepower engine. But the drive is only front-wheel drive.

Recently, the company has significantly expanded its line of budget cars with new models. The Renault Taliant sedan replaced the Logan in Ukraine. The price of Renault Taliant starts from 600 400 UAH. Technically, the model is identical to Kardian.

And, of course, the long-awaited 3rd generation Renault Duster, which is successfully sold in Europe as a Dacia model. The price of the Renault Duster starts from UAH 829,900. This corresponds to 19 thousand euros, asked for the 3rd generation Dacia Duster on the European market.
For the first time in the history of Latvian cinema, the animated film Straume won the prestigious Oscar 2025 award in the Best Animated Feature category. This victory was not only a recognition of the talent of Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis, but also a symbol of a breakthrough for independent animated films.

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The film, created using free open source software, impressed the audience with its visual mastery and deep emotional content.

"Straume" tells the touching story of a cat seeking shelter on a boat with other animals who have lost their homes due to the flood. The film, which does not contain any dialogues, conveys a powerful message of unity and survival in the face of natural disaster.

The Straume's victory came as a surprise to many, as it beat out such high-profile projects as Inside Out 2, Moana 2, and Wild Robot, which had much larger budgets and advertising campaigns. This triumph emphasized the growing role of independent cinema on the world stage and its ability to compete with large studio projects, USA TODAY writes.

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Reaction of the director and the team

Gints Zilbalodis, receiving the award, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception of the film and expressed hope that this victory will open up new opportunities for independent animators around the world. The film's team also shared their inspiration and desire to return to the Oscars in the future.

Straume - interesting facts about the cartoon

The original title is "Straume". This is an animated fantasy adventure film by Latvian director Gints Zilbalodis, released in 2024. The script for the film was co-written with Matthijs Kazh. The film was selected as a candidate from Latvia for the 97th Academy Awards in the Best International Feature Film category. This is the first Latvian film to be nominated in this category, and it also received nominations for Best Animated Feature.

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The plot of the film revolves around a black cat trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world where water has flooded the Earth. The cat faces various dangers, including packs of dogs, hostile secretive birds, and other challenges. All the while, he and other animals try to find a safe place to survive the apocalypse.

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The film has received critical acclaim for its innovative animation and mature themes. It has been awarded at several international festivals, including the 2024 Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section, and won the Audience Award at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.

The film was also recognized for using the open source software Blender for animation, which made its production unique in the animation industry. In addition, it was presented at several international film festivals, including Toronto and Busan.

"Straume" was released in Latvia on August 28, 2024 and became one of the most popular domestic films in the country, collecting more than 100,000 tickets. In addition to Latvia, it was also shown in France and the United States.

Critics have praised the film for its deep emotional content and powerful atmosphere created by computer animation. Famous film critic Jake Coyle named Straume the best animated film of 2024, noting the dreamy surrealism and spectacular animation.

The film was also included in the list of the 30 best films of 2024, which emphasizes its success on the world stage of cinema.

Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
NANNING, March 1 (Xinhua) -- The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, a key logistics network connecting China's western regions to global markets, has transported 209,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) via intermodal rail-sea service in the first two months of this year, according to the China Railway Nanning Group.

This volume has already exceeded the total for 2019, marking a year-on-year increase of 58.4 percent, the railway group said.

In February, demand for freight transportation surged, with notable increases in the shipment of timber and stone materials from south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, as well as tea and roll paper from central China's Hunan Province.

Guangxi has recently allocated 1 billion yuan (about 139.39 million U.S. dollars) to support the development of the trade corridor this year.

The number of freight categories transported through the trade corridor via intermodal rail-sea service has risen to 1,234.

With an operational hub in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality, this trade corridor connects global ports via railways, sea routes and highways, passing through southern Chinese provincial regions such as Guangxi and Yunnan.

The cargo service now covers 158 locations across 73 domestic cities and extends its reach to 556 ports in 127 countries and regions.
At the Oscar 2025 ceremony, the American Film Academy recognized the film "Anora" directed by Sean Baker, which drew criticism for its cast. The plot tells the story of the marriage of an American stripper and the son of a Russian oligarch, and a number of roles were played by citizens of the aggressor country Russia.

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OBOZ.UA tells more about the movie, the actors and their attitude to the war against Ukraine. We also tell you how film critics reacted to the movie.

What the movie is about (spoiler alert!)

Director Sean Baker said that he was "inspired" by a friend's story about a Russian-American couple in which one of the newlyweds was kidnapped for ransom. He also used his experience editing wedding videos in the early 2000s.

The film centers on "Anora" (Ani) Mikheeva, a sex worker from Brooklyn who grew up in a family of Russian-speaking immigrants and lives in the Brighton Beach neighborhood of New York City, also known as "Little Russia." The girl works as a stripper in a fashionable club in Manhattan, where she meets Ivan, a Russian man, the frivolous and dissolute son of an oligarch.

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He has come to the United States to study, but, as is typical of the "golden youth," he prefers to party and play video games at the family estate. He is looked after by his godfather, the priest Toros, and his assistants Garnik and Ihor.

The Russian hires Ani for a few intimate encounters, and later becomes "attached to her" and agrees to spend a week together for $15,000. Later, the couple develops a stormy romance, and eventually Vanya proposes to Ani to become his wife so that he can get a green card and stay in the United States. A little doubtful about the sincerity of the Russian's feelings, the girl eventually quits her job and plunges into married life.

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When the news of this reaches Russia, Anora's fairy tale is threatened, as Ivan's parents travel to New York to seek an annulment and take their son home, where a career in their father's business awaits him.

Russian propagandists in the cast

The director gave the main role to American Mikey Madison even without casting. She is also known for her role in the films "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood" (2019) and "Scream 5" (2022). Especially for filming "Anora," the actress learned Russian and visited strip clubs.

Her fiance was portrayed on screen by actor Mark Eidelstein, who lives in Russia during a full-scale war. Journalists have nicknamed him the "Russian Timothee Chalamet."

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He grew up in Nizhny Novgorod and got his breakthrough with the film "The Land of Sasha," which had its world premiere in Berlin nine days before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. At that time, a significant part of the filming took place in the temporarily occupied Crimea, and the film was distributed by Central Partnership, a subsidiary of the state-owned gas giant Gazprom, which has close ties to the Kremlin.

In addition to him, Russians Alexei Serebryakov, Daria Ekamasova and Putinist Yuri Borisov also starred in "Anora." The latter also illegally visited the occupied Crimea and starred in Russian propaganda films funded by the Kremlin.

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At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Borisov signed a letter from the Union of Cinematographers with the following text: "We received the news of Russia's military actions against Ukraine with pain and anger. No national, political, and geopolitical values can be more important than the main one  the value of human life. We demand an immediate end to the legalized killing of people by a man whose name is WAR."

However, after that, instead of highlighting the truth about Russia's war against Ukraine, the actor chose a silent position and occasionally promotes Putin's narratives. For this position, Borisov is listed in the Myrotvorets database. He is accused of acting in state-sponsored propaganda, in particular for his role in the 2020 film Kalashnikov. This film was also partially filmed in the temporarily occupied Crimean peninsula.

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Anora director Sean Baker met Borisov at the Cannes Film Festival in 2021: he approached the Russian with a proposal to star in his film after seeing his role as a Russian miner in the Finnish film Compartment 6.

None of the actors made any statements about Russia's armed aggression against Ukraine. Sean Baker also did not comment on the decision to make a movie with Russians during the war. Vulture wrote that he had avoided politics in his films until the release of "Anora."

Critics' reaction to the movie

The world premiere of "Anora" took place on May 21, 2024, at the Cannes Film Festival, and on May 25, the film won the Palme d'Or, becoming the first American film in 14 years to win this award. The Los Angeles Film Critics Association and the Boston Film Critics Circle named Anora the best film at the 50th Los Angeles Film Critics Association (LAFCA) Awards.

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The film was released on October 18, 2024 in the United States. It has won seven BAFTA awards (the host of the film award mocked Putin and the movie "Anora," which starred Russian actors, from the stage). The film was nominated for six categories at this year's Oscars, and as a result, "Anora" won five statuettes  Best Editing, Best Screenplay, Best Director (Sean Baker), Best Actress (Mikey Madison), and Best Picture.

According to Variety, during the premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, Anora was greeted with a "7.5 minute standing ovation". The Guardian movie reviewers expressed their belief that this "eccentric Sean Baker's Cinderella tale elevates him to greatness", and according to Time film critics, "Yuri Borisov creates tender, seething magic in every scene".

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However, film reviewer Alex Kelaru did not share the excitement around the film, saying: "I don't think this movie quite deserves the recognition it's getting. I don't think it's a contender for the Oscars for best picture, cinematography, editing or screenplay."

The Telegraph drew attention to the Russian problem of the Oscar contender and wrote that the Palme d'Or winner, "Anora," is indeed a critical favorite, but Hollywood is blatantly ignoring the pro-Kremlin work of some actors.

According to observers, like the world it portrays, "Anora" has a dark side that no one talks about  three years after the start of the full-scale Russian invasion and eleven years after Russia seized Crimea and part of Donbas, its stars continue to live and work in their homeland.

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"Both Eidelstein, 22, and Borisov, 31, appear to have been compromised by their previous (and future) work, both because of where it was made and its propagandistic nature," wrote The Telegraph's Liam Kelly.

Ukrainians working in the film industry also expressed outrage at the praise for Anora and its propaganda actors.

"The ongoing war is no longer a concern for major film festivals, it's like yesterday's news. Half of the cast continues to participate in pro-government film festivals in Russia, playing the main roles in government-funded films. "It's very questionable...'Anora' is a sign that no one has canceled Russian culture and will not cancel it. It is a victory for them," said Olga Sidorushkina, program curator at the Ukrainian Institute in London.

Ukrainian film director, producer and screenwriter Ksenia Bugrimova emphasized: "Art is becoming a tool for manipulating the perception of Russia. Imagine if the characters were from Israel or Gaza, how the audience would react. It's the same."

This year, a Ukrainian film was nominated for an Oscar  the documentary "The Porcelain War," created jointly by the United States and Ukraine, was nominated for Best Documentary Feature.

As OBOZ.UA reported earlier, at the BAFTA 2025 awards, where the film about the war in Ukraine  Rock, Paper, Scissors directed by Franz Boehm  won, American actor and musician Jared Leto found himself at the center of a scandal for taking selfies with Russian actors. In this way, the frontman of the band 30 Seconds To Mars decided to draw attention to the nominees from Russia.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
Northern Irelands First Minister Michelle ONeill has said she is comfortable with the deputy First Minister attending the White House later this month.

Ms ONeill previously announced she was not planning to travel to Washington DC for St Patricks Day.

She said that she, along with her Sinn Fein party colleagues, will take a principled stance against the threat of mass expulsion of the Palestinian people from Gaza.

Last week, deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly confirmed she will travel to Washington DC.

Last year Ms ONeill and Ms Little-Pengelly were lauded in the US capital as they travelled together to attend St Patricks Day events only weeks after the powersharing institutions at Stormont were restored.

Speaking during questions for the Executive Office at the Stormont Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said that she and Ms Little-Pengelly will both travel to North Carolina with a Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce trade delegation next week, before the deputy First Minister goes on to Washington.

Ms ONeill also confirmed an invitation had been received for the White House.

She said she was comfortable with Ms Little-Pengelly attending when she is not.

Responding to a question from People Before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll, Ms ONeill said she had taken the decision as First Minister not to attend events at the White House this year.

Thats my decision, a decision I dont take lightly, but a decision Ive taken as a principled stance because I believe its the right thing to do at this moment in time.

I think there are times whenever theres a responsibility on all of us to call out injustice, and this was that moment.

So, Im very comfortable with my decision, equally comfortable with the fact that the deputy First Minister has a different view and will travel to be part of the White House reception and other events this year.

Thats entirely her call and Im comfortable enough with that decision.

Mr Carroll also pressed Ms ONeill on Taoiseach Micheal Martins attendance at the White House.

Ms ONeill responded by saying it is a different situation for the Taoiseach, who will have the opportunity to engage directly with US President Donald Trump.

Thats an opportunity that he has to take because only he will have that opportunity to have that one-on-one time, and I hope that he does take the opportunity to drive home the message, the depth of feeling thats felt right across Ireland in terms of how people feel about whats happening in Palestine, she said.

The recent commentary by the US administration, in particular in terms of the taking of Palestinian lands, the removal of the Palestinian people off their lands, the fact that they have moved away from a two-state solution, which is a solution that we all want to see achieved, is something that he needs to be very firm on in terms of any engagement with the US president.
Tonight we share more than a bit of local news regarding rising metro violence, consumer danger and ALLEGED misdeeds. As the weather warms up, typically, locals will suffer increased levels of local threats from all manner of scumbags who are usually either family members or close friends.



Check TKC news gathering . . .

Charges filed in connection to theft of vehicle through Facebook Marketplace Charges have been filed against a man believed to have stolen a vehicle during an attempted Facebook Marketplace sale at a North Kansas City Burger King in 2023.

Multiple arrested in connection to Chillicothe shooting that left 18-year-old injured Police are investigating after a shooting left an 18-year-old hospitalized early Sunday morning in Chillicothe, Missouri.

Man accused of 2023 kidnapping, robbery in Kansas City bound over for trial A Kansas City man accused of kidnapping and robbing an individual in 2023 has been bound over for trial by a pubic grand jury.

Independence double shooting leaves man in critical condition One person is in critical condition after a double shooting Independence on Sunday afternoon.

Charges filed after man terrorizes residents of KC apartment building Charges have been filed against a man who allegedly terrorized residents with a firearm inside a Kansas City apartment building.

Motorist going wrong way dies in head-on crash with Jackson County Sheriff's deputy A driver going the wrong way on Blue Ridge Cutoff died late Friday night in a head-on crash with a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy.

Armed robbery suspect arrested after police chase in hijacked vehicle The suspect in an armed robbery that happened at a Kansas City park has been arrested after he allegedly hijacked a vehicle and led police on a chase.

Final defendant sentenced in May 2022 murder of man during robbery at Olathe park A Johnson County judge sentenced the final defendant in a May 2022 drug deal that turned deadly in an Olathe park.

Charges filed after forged IDs found inside vehicle stolen from KC dealership A Lake Ozark man has been charged after several forged identification cards were found inside a vehicle he stole from a Kansas City dealership.

Proposed bill targets child sex trafficking Legislation working its way through the Missouri Senate aims to increase penalties for child sex trafficking, a measure local welfare agencies say is needed.

Kansas police could sell, give away guns seized without criminal convictions under Senate bill Under current law, agencies can sell or give away the guns they seize when someone is convicted of a crime, but under civil asset forfeiture, which doesn't require a conviction,

Cousin of boy shot and killed in Riverside crime spree shares memories After a man shot and killed a woman and a boy, and injured another woman, a cousin of the boy shared memories Friday afternoon with KCTV.

Family statement released Sunday on crime spree that killed two adults, one child The family of a child murdered Friday, and the child's mother, wounded by gunfire, released a statement Sunday on the deadly crime spree Friday in the Northland.

Developing . .
Actually . . .

Most voters might not see anything wrong about the rural dust up. American Democracy is crafted for complaining, debate and a rigorous exchange of ideas.

It's only on the social & mainstream media wherein any disagreement is regarded as a personal affront or a potentially career ending tragedy.

Accordingly . . .

Here's a passage from our prog blog friends that starts out with a quote from Senator Marshall's team and then the retort attempting to stir up progressive ire after suffering 2024 election FAIL:



Democrat operatives who couldnt place Oakley, Kansas on a map before today sabotaged a local town hall  even still, Senator Marshall stayed and answered every question that was asked for 45 minutes. Real Kansans overwhelmingly support President Trumps DOGE initiative, shrinking the size of the federal government, and firing career bureaucrats. Local Oakley citizens had no clue who these people were and were embarrassed by the behavior. Senator Marshall is to be commended for staying as long as he did.



Look at the video contained in that tweet toward the top of this column. Tell me how many people in the audience look like Democrat operatives to you. They might be liberal, but if you think the Kansas Democratic Party has enough operatives to send dozens out to Oakley the weekend of the partys annual meeting in Topeka, I can sell you oceanfront property in Garden City.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Reflector: Cowardly Roger Marshall claims real Kansans love Trump and DOGE. We know otherwise.




Here's the latest power move from the same Missouri politico who was forced to clarify that he DOES NOT support adults marrying minors . . . Check-it:



The constitutional amendment seeks to define a person as every human being with a unique DNA code, regardless of age, including an unborn child.



If they believe as we do, there will be no question at all that the science has proven that when that male and female join together, there is a unique individual created, said Moon. I dont think there will be any question that those deserve protection, just as any other person in the United States.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
For many tourists, the ideal vacation is one where they can get away not only from their usual routine but also from the large number of people around them. That's why destinations that were not on the top of the list before are gaining popularity.

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According to Express, one of these destinations is the picturesque island of Palawan in the Philippines. Its capital is the city of Puerto Princesa, and the population is approximately 995,000, making it one of the least densely populated in the country. At the same time, it boasts abundant wildlife, dense jungle, and white sandy beaches.

The seascapes on Palawan are as beautiful as any in Southeast Asia, but there is much more space here, as tourists have not yet fully discovered the island. Meanwhile, there is plenty to see here.

One of the island's unique attractions is the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. It is home to one of the longest navigable river caves in the world. You can take a walk through it using a non-motorized boat. Don't forget to take an audio guide with you. The tour lasts about 45 minutes, during which the boat travels about 1.5 kilometers along the river.

Popular activities in Palawan are diving and snorkeling, which allow you to admire the incredible diversity of the Coral Triangle's fauna. In the Tubbataha Reefs National Park, which is a partially submerged atoll, hammerhead sharks are found along with giant gobies and manta rays.

From here you can also go on vacation to the smaller islands of Coron, Minilok, or Cadlao. You can also visit the local waterfalls of Kuyawyaw and Estrella. The island has many sandy beaches with turquoise clear waters, including Nacpan, Duli, and Long Beach.

According to experts, in 2022, Palawan was visited by only 800,000 thousand tourists. For comparison, 1.8 million people visited the Maldives during the same period.

Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
Whiff of fresh air from Turkiye

It appears that one of the Middle Easts most intractable conflicts might be nearing its end, and its ramifications will befelt far and wide, following the call for peace by PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan

Monday March 3, 2025 11:57 AM , Asad Mirza

[PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan (File)]

It appears that one of the Middle Easts most intractable conflicts might be nearing its end, and its ramifications will befelt far and wide, following the call for peace by PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan.

For half a century, Kurdish militants have fought Turkiye for independence in the southeast of the country, which has claimed more than 40,000 lives and has rippled beyond Turkiyes borders into Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

On Thursday last (27 February), Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed leader of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), called on its members to lay down arms and dissolve the group.

However, the calls success now hinges on sustained cooperation among the various parties involved, but political analysts are far from confident that the PKK militants, based in mountainous northern Iraq, will heed the appeal of Ocalan, who has been held in an island jail near Istanbul for a quarter of a century.

Turkish President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, called Ocalans message the start of a new phase for peace efforts, although his government has publicly rebuffed suggestions that Ocalans call could be followed by peace talks.

Analysts say that for now, Erdogan, 71, is focused especially on the domestic political dividends that peace could bring as he looks to extend his two-decade rule beyond 2028 when his term expires.

The announcement created ripples across the Middle East, and may affect an array of Kurdish militia groups with long-held but varied ties to the PKK. The group, which is classified as terrorist in Turkiye, the US, and the UK, called Ocalans announcement part of a new historic process for the Middle East.

The groups executive committee also called for Ocalan to be freed from his island prison, to personally direct a meeting that would prompt them to lay down their weapons.

According to the New York Times, PKK launched an armed insurgency against the Turkish state in the early 1980s, originally seeking independence for the Kurds, who are believed to make up about 15% or more of Turkiyes population.

Initially the insurgency started from the mountains in eastern and southern Turkiye, PKK fighters attacked Turkish military bases and police stations, prompting harsh government responses. Later, the conflict spread to other parts of the country, with devastating PKK bombings in Turkish cities that killed many civilians.

In 1999, Turkiye captured Ocalan and convicted him of leading an armed terrorist group. He received a death sentence that was later commuted to life in prison.Since his incarceration, Ocalan has shifted its ideology away from secession and toward Kurdish rights inside Turkiye.

The Kurds are an ethnic group of roughly 40 million peopleconcentrated in Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkiye.Most Kurds are Sunni Muslims.

The Kurds were promised a nation of their own by world powers after World War I, but that was never granted. There were Kurdish rebellions in various countries over the following generations, and Kurds have faced state suppression of their language and culture.

Since the 1991 Gulf War, the largely Kurdish northern region of Iraq has been semi-autonomous.Multiple efforts to freeze or end the Turkiye-PKK conflict have been made, starting with a ceasefire in 1993 and talks in 2009-11 and 2013-15. But all of them collapsed.

In this context, Dr Medhat Hamad, a professor of Iranian and Asian Studies at Tanta University in Egypt and head of the FarabiCentre for Political and Development Studies, told Turkiyes Hawar News that Abdullah Ocalan's announcement is of utmost importance, as it reveals a political, ideological, and even a new national self-review that he conducted after a thorough analysis of the entire global and regional scene.

This also reveals that there has been a genuine review in the Turkish political mindset that manages the affairs of the Turkish state on one hand, and the conflict with the Kurds in general and Ocalan in particular on the other hand.

Therefore, Dr Hamad said, Ocalan would not have issued this statement unless he had Turkish assurances, promises, and commitments to open the space and provide a sound democratic life for the Kurds to achieve what they could not achieve through arms.

Dr Hamad explained that the PKK leader Ocalan has read between the lines regarding what the future holds for the Kurdish issue on one hand, and perhaps some Western plans, especially American ones, which could strike at the strategic and vital interests of both the Kurds and the Turks together in the coming years, extending what happened in Syria, and this is very important and extremely dangerous.

Dr Hamad said thatOcalan has a realistic understanding of the regional and international scene. He said, Abdullah Ocalan perhaps wanted to save the future of the Kurdish cause, unlike some other political organisations, and he read the scene well and he wanted to preserve the existence and essence of the Kurdish cause for the next hundred years.

Meanwhile,Turkiyes Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), Erdogans right-wing ally, has become a staunch supporter of the peace process and the far-right Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahceli, who started the new process after his unexpected call suggesting that Ocalan announce an end to the insurgency in exchange for the possibility of his release in October 2024, has welcomed the recent call.

Yet, restoring peace might not be that easy, the Washington Institutes Turkish research programme director Soner Cagaptay told Reuters that the PKK leaders holed up in the Qandil mountains of northern Iraq remain deeply suspicious of Ankaras intentions.

Elderly commanders might also object to disbanding the PKK entirely or immediately without achieving any of its original goals - an outcome that could suggest they have thrown their lives away for nothing, he said.

The details of Ocalans announcement were purposefully shrouded in mystery, in part because Ankaras two previous dialogues with the PKK failed miserably, said Cagaptay.

Indeed, if Ocalans followers heed the new call, it would mark a turning point for Turkiye and have far-reaching implications for the Middle East, as Erdogan looks to capitalise on the upheaval in Syria and military gains against the PKK fighters based in northern Iraq.

(The writer, Asad Mirza, is a New Delhi-based senior commentator on national, international, defence and strategic affairs, environmental issues, an interfaith practitioner, and a media consultant.)



Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates.

Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic.
A new discovery at the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt suggests that the structure was not only the final resting place of a pharaoh, but also a giant power plant. Scientists have blasted the 4,600-year-old structure with electromagnetic waves, a form of radiation that spreads through the universe, finding that it focuses and amplifies energy in individual chambers and around the base.

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Electromagnetic waves are used in such studies because the radiation interacts with matter in a unique way, allowing experts to analyze specific details of the structure's composition, location, and dynamics. Scientists have concluded that the pyramid could be a giant resonator designed to capture electromagnetic waves, DailyMail reports.

Retired aerospace engineer Christopher Dunn, who has researched the pyramid for many years, recently said that new evidence suggests that there was a greater purpose behind the construction of this structure.

The scientist said that the pyramid's north shaft has an appearance similar to an ube-like structure used to transmit microwaves and electromagnetic energy. "This is part of the theory about the Giza power plant. There are two chemicals that are introduced into the chamber and mix, bringing out hydrogen to create energy," Dunn said.

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The researchers note that the purpose of converting the pyramid into a giant clean energy power plant is a mystery. But it does show that the Egyptians were apparently even more advanced than scientists had previously thought.

Christopher Dunn, who has been conducting computer analysis of the pyramids for 30 years, has concluded that ancient Egyptian builders had access to high-quality tools, modern construction technologies, and even mega-machines, despite the lack of archaeological records of their use.

The study showed that the pharaoh's room, located near the center of the Great Pyramid, concentrated electromagnetic energy more efficiently than other chambers.

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According to experts, when a pyramid stands on a limestone substrate, electromagnetic energy is concentrated under the structure, which suggests that the base of the pyramid could play a crucial role in energy distribution.

Dunn claimed that the queen's room was a "reaction chamber where hydrogen was produced." "The hydrogen filled the interior of the Great Pyramid, which included the pharaoh's room," he said.

The scientist also noted that the Earth is constantly bombarded by microwaves, possibly from atomic hydrogen, dating back to the Big Bang itself.

Interestingly, the ancient Egyptians would not have been able to pour hydrogen atoms into the pyramid. Thus, Dunn suggests that they would have used two separate chemicals that were poured through shafts into the queen's chamber and mixed and then boiled off the hydrogen particles, causing an energy resonance.

It is still not clear what these chemicals were. Therefore, scientists will work on developing their own nanoparticles that could reproduce the same effects in the radio frequency range.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Peace in Ukraine should not be just a ceasefire  it will only allow Russia to regain strength and come back again. It must be a just peace with security guarantees.

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This was stated by President of the European Council Antonio Costa during his visit to Moldova. He was quoted by The Guardian.

Costa commented on Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's call for the EU to hold "direct talks" with Russia on a ceasefire in Ukraine.

"The European Union is a project of peace, and a project of peace means that security and defense are necessarily a priority because peace without defense is an illusion," Costa emphasized.

According to him, no one wants peace more than Ukrainians, and the European Union supports them in achieving this lasting peace.

"But peace is not just a ceasefire that gives Russia more time to become stronger again. We want a just and lasting peace," Costa emphasized.

According to Hungarian journalists, Orban sent a letter to the President of the European Council Antonio Costa demanding to immediately start direct negotiations with Russia on a ceasefire in Ukraine.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban demanded that the EU "directly negotiate with Russia" on a ceasefire in Ukraine. Otherwise, he threatens to block any decisions of the European Council on the Russian-Ukrainian war.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy explained why a ceasefire is impossible without security guarantees. He recalled how, after previous agreements with Russia on a truce, the occupiers sent snipers to the front for "live training" on the Armed Forces and civilians. The frontline was tens of times smaller back then, and now, with the enemy deploying a wider arsenal, a ceasefire deal would actually be a trap.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and in Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The head of the U.S. Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth, has allegedly ordered to stop offensive cyber operations against the aggressor country of Russia. Apparently, such actions are part of President Donald Trump's team's attempts to establish a dialog with the Kremlin.

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This was reported by The New York Times. Speaking about the Pentagon's plan, the publication cites anonymous interlocutors, one of whom is a current and two are former officials.

According to the sources, Hughes ordered to stop American offensive cyber actions against Russia so that Washington could begin negotiating with Moscow to end the Russian-Ukrainian war.

The order allegedly came before Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, which ended in scandal.

The specific scope and duration of the Pentagon chief's order is unclear. The NYT writes that, in general, maintaining access to Russian networks to obtain information is something that is important to the United States in any case to understand the intentions of dictator Putin in the context of possible negotiations.

According to the interlocutors, the abandonment of offensive cyber operations against Russia is a "risky gamble" for Washington. After all, they explain, it is not yet known whether Russia will stop its hybrid operations against the United States and European states, which the United States has also provided significant support in countering cyber interference.

As OBOZ.UA reported, the new US administration has continued the trend of sanctions pressure on Russia. The first company to be subjected to restrictive measures during Donald Trump's term was a Russian host that provided infrastructure for cyberattacks.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Democratic Republic of Congo's army denied Sunday that 20 fighters linked to the Rwandan genocide had been captured on its territory, calling a video of their handover to Rwanda "faked."

The statement came after the M23 armed group in eastern DRC said Saturday it had captured fighters from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia founded by ethnic Hutus who took part in the genocide of Tutsis in Rwanda in 1994.

Rwanda has long pointed to the alleged presence of the FDLR in eastern DRC.

The M23 has seized swathes of the DRC's troubled, mineral-rich east in recent months, including the key provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu.

The M23 released a video showing its forces handing over 20 alleged FDLR fighters to Rwanda at a border post between the two countries.

"This is a faked incident in poor taste orchestrated with the sole aim of discrediting our army," the Congolese armed forces chiefs of staff said in a statement.

"This is part of the Rwandan strategy to justify the invasion of parts of the DRC's territory," it added.

"The Rwandan authorities, who specialize in the art of lies and manipulation, took old FDLR detainees, dressed them in new military fatigues, and passed them off as FDLR fighters newly captured in Goma."

The DRC high command also accused the Rwandan army of "summary executions" of wounded and ill soldiers at a field hospital in Goma, which "constitutes a war crime and crime against humanity," it said.

The escalating conflict in eastern DRC has raised fears it could spiral into a wider regional war, drawing in Rwanda, Uganda and other countries.

The DRC government has repeatedly accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, a claim that Rwanda denies. Kigali, in turn, alleges that Kinshasa collaborates with the FDLR, an allegation the DRC rejects.

Military operations in the region remain fluid, with clashes leading to significant displacement and humanitarian concerns. Analysts warn that continued instability risks deepening the regional conflict and several peacekeepers from the Southern African Development Community, or SADC, have already been killed since the recent rebel offensives.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said on Sunday that Egypt's Gaza reconstruction plan, which ensures Palestinians remain in their land, is ready and will be presented at an emergency Arab summit in Cairo on Tuesday.

Arab states, which were swift to reject President Donald Trump's plan for the U.S. to take control of Gaza and resettle Palestinians, are scrambling to agree on a diplomatic offensive to counter the idea.

Trump's plan, announced on Feb. 4 amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a U.S.-designated terror group, appeared to back away from long-standing U.S. Middle East policy focused on a two-state solution and sparked anger among Palestinians and Arab nations.

Abdelatty said Egypt would seek international backing and funding for the plan and emphasized Europe's crucial role, particularly in the financing of Gaza's reconstruction.

"We will hold intensive talks with major donor countries once the plan is adopted at the upcoming Arab [League] summit," he said in a press conference with the EU Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Suica.

Israel on Sunday blocked the entry of aid trucks into Gaza as a standoff over the truce that has halted fighting for the past six weeks escalated. Abdelatty said the use of aid as a weapon of collective punishment could not be permitted.

The first phase of the fragile ceasefire agreement expired this weekend.

Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to the originally agreed ceasefire that had been scheduled to move into a second phase.

"It will be difficult, but with goodwill and political determination, it can be achieved," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said earlier that it had adopted a U.S. proposal for a temporary ceasefire in Gaza for the Ramadan and Passover periods.

Abdelatty said after Tuesday's summit, foreign ministers of member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation would hold an urgent meeting in Saudi Arabia to discuss how to present the plans.

"We will ensure that the results of the Arab summit are presented to the world in the best possible way," he said.

The current conflict began when Hamas killed 1,200 people and captured about 250 hostages in their Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

Israels counteroffensive in Gaza has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians, according to the territory's health ministry, with about half being women and children.
Police in Pakistan reported Monday that a female suicide bomber detonated herself near a military convoy in southwestern Balochistan province, killing at least one security personnel and injuring four others.

The bombing in the insurgency-hit Kalat district reportedly targeted a commander of the Frontier Corps paramilitary force, but he was unharmed.

A local police officer, Habibullah, confirmed the casualties, telling VOA by telephone that investigators had recovered body parts of the bomber and concluded that the perpetrator was female.

No immediate claims of responsibility for the Kalat attack were made. However, previous similar acts of violence in natural resources-rich Balochistan, including those involving female bombers, had been claimed by the outlawed Baloch Liberation Army (BLA).

In Pakistan, suicide bombings by women are rare. The last known female suicide attack happened in 2022 when a bomber targeted a van carrying Chinese teachers to the university campus in Karachi. The driver and three teachers were killed.

BLA-led attacks against security forces and settlers from other Pakistani provinces, particularly Punjab, have lately increased in Balochistan, which sits on the countrys border with Afghanistan and Iran.

Series of attacks

Last month, BLA insurgents ambushed a bus transporting paramilitary forces in Kalat and killed 18 of them. Just days later, a roadside bomb blast killed 11 coal miners in the city while BLA took credit for attacking a military vehicle securing a supply convoy for a mining company operated by China. Pakistani authorities reported that the convoy was passing through Kalat when it came under attack, resulting in injuries to eight security personnel.

BLA has justified its attacks on infrastructure projects funded by China, claiming that Beijing is aiding Islamabad in exploiting local resources without sharing the benefits with the impoverished Baloch residents.

Pakistan and China deny the allegations, asserting that BLA and other separatist organizations are actively engaged in campaigns aimed at hindering economic development in Balochistan.

Mondays bombing occurred a day after an alliance of ethnic Baloch separatist groups, including BLA, resolved at a joint meeting to escalate their war against Pakistan and China by implementing a blockade on all important highways of Balochistan to disrupt the logistical, economic, and military interests of the Pakistani state.

The insurgent alliance shared the information with reporters via email but did not disclose the location or timing of the meeting. BLA is believed to be the largest and most lethal group active in Balochistan, and it has also been designated as a global terrorist organization by the United States.
A French company that makes a key component in night vision systems used by some NATO countries announced Monday it is building a new factory in the United States amid a push for NATO members to increase their defense spending.

Exosens said the new factory in the northeastern state of Massachusetts is expected to begin operations in 2027, and is part of a $21 million overall investment that also includes expanded operations in Europe.

"The return of high-density combat has underscored the critical importance of night operation abilities as a key tactical advantage," the company said in a statement.

Last week, Exosens announced a contract with a maker of night vision goggles in NATO member Finland.

Some information for this story was provided by Reuters.
On the evening of March 4, US President Donald Trump will deliver his first address to Congress. He announced a "big night" and said that he was the only American president "who has not given any land in Ukraine to Putin's Russia."

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According to the White House, Trump's address to Congress will begin on Tuesday evening, at 21:00 EST (4:00 on Wednesday, March 5, Kyiv time). "You don't want to miss this!" the message reads.

At the same time, Trump himself, commenting on the event on his social network Truth Social, announced a "big night."

"Tomorrow night is going to be a big night. I'll tell it like it is," he wrote.

The American leader also said that "the only president who has not given any land of Ukraine to Putin's Russia is President Donald Trump."

"Remember this when weak and ineffective Democrats criticize and Fake News gladly puts out anything they say!" he wrote.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, after the summit of European leaders in London on March 2, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would meet with Trump if it comes to "solving real problems." According to the Ukrainian leader, Kyiv is ready to accept the fossil fuel agreement, which failed to be signed on Friday due to a dispute with Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House.

Trump's National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, in turn, said that the US president is open to resuming negotiations with Zelenskyy, including on the minerals deal. However, the Trump administration believes this is possible only if the Ukrainian president "changes his position." According to Waltz, Ukraine needs to start peace talks, as Americans' patience is not unlimited, and "wallets are not unlimited."

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
China is ramping up cooperation with Pakistan in space exploration, but experts say Islamabad must develop its own strengths if it aims to benefit from Beijing.

Pakistans Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission, or SUPARCO, and China Manned Space Agency, or CMSA, announced Friday they will train Pakistans first astronaut for a mission aboard Chinese space station Tiangong.

The agreement comes just weeks after the two sides announced Chinas Change-8 moon lander mission in 2028 will carry a Pakistani rover.

Last year, China put Pakistan into the moons orbit taking the first Pakistani lunar satellite ICUBE-Q, aboard its historic Chiange 6 mission, designed to retrieve samples from the little explored far side of the moon.

Weeks later, Beijing put another Pakistani communication satellite into orbit.

Picking Pakistan

The latest agreement makes Pakistan the first country with an astronaut to work at Tiangong.

Experts say picking Pakistan as the first guest for Chinas space station is not surprising as Islamabad hosts the flagship project of Chinas global Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. The multibillion-dollar program includes a plethora of investment projects aimed at extending Beijings influence, especially in the developing world.

In this kind of increased polarization of interest in the world, China, both politically and also from the technological point of view, is trying to be the front-runner of, we can say, the Global South, said Carlo Iorio, director of the Center for Research and Engineering in Space Technology at the Free University of Brussels.

So, it's quite straightforward to think that one of the possible first candidates to be granted to use the Chinese Space Station could have been Pakistani astronauts or an astronaut, Iorio told VOA.

Last October, China announced a 25-year plan outlining its ambitious vision for space exploration.

It includes Beijings goals of searching for extraterrestrial life, exploring Mars, Venus, and Jupiter, sending space crews to the moon and building an international lunar research station.

Pakistan's participation in the China Space Station program reflects the deep-rooted ties between the two countries, said Lin Xiqiang, director general of CMSA, according to the Pakistani statement.

Lin was quoted as saying Pakistans inclusion will contribute to mutual knowledge-sharing and the broader vision of peaceful space exploration for the benefit of humanity.

Equal footing

Collaboration with China opens access to a treasure trove of technical knowledge and expertise for Pakistan as Beijing has managed the worlds first soft landing and roving on the far side of the moon and landed a rover on Mars.

They have capabilities to indigenously design and develop satellites and launches for all types of applications, said Amer Gilani, secretary of the Pakistan Human Spaceflight Cooperation at SUPARCO about Chinas capabilities.

Pakistan wants to achieve self-reliance in design and development of satellites for remote sensing, communication, deep space exploration, lunar missions, Gilani told VOA in written comments. With collaboration with China our space ambitions can progress much better.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed the latest space collaboration as a defining moment in the nations space journey, but experts say the nuclear-armed country will benefit from the collaboration only if it becomes an equal partner.

What I want to see is cooperation on equal footing, said Yarjan Abdul Samad, assistant professor of aerospace engineering at Khalifa University in UAE.

Samad, who is also affiliated with the University of Cambridge, said that while Pakistan may not be able to contribute equally now, it should aim to do so in the near future.

If you go on these projects and you are just on the receiving end and you get services, what you asked for, then your technological development is very limited, Samad told VOA.

Chinese edge

The International Space Station, or ISS, and Chinas Tiangong are currently the only two space stations orbiting Earth.

Managed by a partnership among 15 countries, the ISS is set to be retired in 2030.

Elon Musk, the owner of SpaceX and special advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, recently called for deorbiting the ISS soon in favor of missions to Mars.

As the market for commercial space exploration expands, Iorio said, that leaves Chinas Tiangong as the only official government-based space station for further experiments and other activities for years to come.

While this makes collaborating with China attractive for developing countries, Samad said Pakistan should consider more than national pride when putting an astronaut into space.

Sending a Pakistani into space will only make sense, Samad said, if they will assist in carrying out work which is not possible with unmanned vehicles and which is not possible in ground conditions and which is helping us in finding solutions to technological problems.

SUPARCO has said the mission will involve cutting-edge scientific experiments in various fields, including biological and medical sciences, aerospace, applied physics, fluid mechanics, space radiation, ecology, material sciences, microgravity studies, and astronomy.

Despite receiving more than $25 billion in Chinese loans and investments for energy and infrastructure projects as part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Pakistan is yet to turn its economy around. Experts largely blame governance issues.

Iorio warned that Pakistan must strengthen its technology landscape or risk losing some of its brightest.

"Without supporting research in the country, [it] will drain more talent towards foreign nations, including China," the Brussels-based expert said.

For now, Pakistanis have an exciting opportunity ahead of them as SUPARCO searches for the countrys first astronaut.

The criteria?

Pakistan will select astronauts from Pakistani citizens with background suited for astronauts which could be flying, medical fitness, physical fitness, psychological fitness, research/analytical skills, and high qualifications etc., Gilani told VOA. Hopefully [we] will be able to get good candidates.
The future of the ceasefire between Israel and U.S.-designated terror group Hamas is in doubt after Israel cut off all aid to the Gaza Strip, sparking panic buying. Israel says it wants to extend the current ceasefire for seven weeks, Hamas says it wants talks on a permanent end to the war. Linda Gradstein reports from Jerusalem. (Videographer: Ricki Rosen )
The U.N. childrens agency warned Monday that Israels decision to stop allowing the entry of all humanitarian aid except water into the Gaza Strip will quickly lead to devastating consequences for children and families who are struggling to survive.

The aid restrictions announced yesterday will severely compromise lifesaving operations for civilians, said Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. It is imperative that the ceasefire  a critical lifeline for children  remains in place, and that aid is allowed to flow freely so we can continue to scale up the humanitarian response.

The first phase of the ceasefire expired Saturday, and Israel and U.S.-designated terror group Hamas have been at odds about what the second phase will look like.

On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said U.S. Middle East envoy Steven Witcoff had proposed extending the ceasefire until April 20  which would encompass both the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover holiday. During that period, Hamas would release half the hostages on the first day and the rest once a deal is reach on a permanent ceasefire.

I accepted this plan. But so far, Hamas has rejected it, Netanyahu said in his video message.

He then said his government would stop allowing goods and supplies into Gaza, accusing Hamas of stealing them and preventing Palestinians from accessing them.

It uses these supplies to finance its terror machine, which is aimed directly at Israel and our civilians  and this we cannot accept, Netanyahu said in a video statement. We will take further steps if Hamas continues to hold our hostages. And throughout this, Israel knows that America and President Trump have our back.

U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said in response to reporters questions Monday that his colleagues on that ground have not reported such incidents.

What we have seen since the ceasefire is a much freer and more direct flow of aid, and we have not seen any of the looting that we had seen prior to the ceasefire, he said.

Dujarric noted that since Sunday, three major crossing points for aid trucks into Gaza have been closed and already the price of flour and vegetables have increased more than a 100% in some cases.

Aid organizations have criticized Israels decision to stop the aid.

Humanitarian aid is not a privilege  it is a right, said Angelita Caredda, Norwegian Refugee Councils regional director for the Middle East and North Africa. People in Gaza are already facing desperate conditions. With food supplies running out, hospitals unable to function, and families struggling to find clean water, any restrictions on aid will push the civilian population beyond collapse.

Israels decision, to block aid to over two million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip as Ramadan begins, is a reckless act of collective punishment, explicitly prohibited under international humanitarian law, British charity Oxfam said in a statement. The government of Israel, as [the] occupying power has the responsibility to ensure that humanitarian aid can reach the population in Gaza.

The families of hostages held by Hamas have also expressed concern that the ceasefire is in jeopardy and their loved ones are running out of time.

Ilay David, brother of hostage Evyatar David, thanked President Donald Trump for his role in getting dozens of hostages freed since taking office.

Your powerful demands for all hostages to be released gave us something we have been desperate for  hope. Now, we need you to finish this, he said in a video statement Sunday. President Trump, bring us a better deal, a safer deal. No stages, no phases. One deal to bring everyone home."

Hamas is believed to be holding 59 hostages, of whom 35 are still believed to be alive.

During the first phase of the expected three-phase ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that ran from January 19 until Saturday, Israel allowed humanitarians to scale up aid deliveries to Gaza. International hunger experts had warned that without urgent assistance parts of the enclave were on the verge of famine after more than a year of war.

The United States, along with Qatar and Egypt, have been the mediators of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Cairo and Doha both protested Israels decision to halt aid to Gaza, accusing Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war.

On Tuesday, Arab League members will convene an emergency summit in Cairo to discuss the fragile ceasefire and the future of Gaza.

Natasha Mozgovaya contributed to this story. Some information in this article came from The Associated Press.
Prison authorities in Myanmar are accused of subjecting a jailed journalist to abuse after he exposed human rights violations in the prison, according to his employer.

Sai Zaw Thaike, a photojournalist for the independent news agency Myanmar Now, is imprisoned in Insein Prison, a facility with a dire record of rights abuses.

He and the two other prisoners, Thet Hnin Aung and Naing Win, have been subjected to physical and mental abuse every day since January, according to Myanmar Now.

The inmates are beaten daily, Myanmar Now reported.

The abuse is believed to be in retaliation to Sai Zaw Thaike and the others informing visiting National Human Rights Commission representatives that prison staff were violating the human rights of other prisoners, Myanmar Now reported, citing sources inside the prison.

The junta-appointed National Human Rights Commission has a mandate to monitor and protect the rights of Myanmars people.

A committee of the nonpartisan Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions in 2024, however, recommended suspending the commission from its membership over complaints, including over its independence.

Myanmar Now has said that it believes the action against its photojournalist is also punishment for his leaking information to news outlets while detained, and for his reporting about the military before his arrest.

Myanmars military did not immediately reply to VOAs request for comment.

Sai Zaw Thaike was arrested in May 2023 and later that year sentenced to 20 years in prison for sedition.

He is one of dozens of journalists to have been detained since the military seized power in a February 2021 coup.

The military, known as the Tatmadaw, has sought to control media through jailings, revoking broadcast licenses and blocking access to internet, watchdogs say. The harsh environment for media resulted in some news outlets closing and many journalists and their operations moving into exile.

The U.S.-based Committee to Protect Journalists, or CPJ, called on Myanmars military to halt the abuse.

Myanmars junta must identify and hold to account those responsible for assaulting journalist Sai Zaw Thaike, CPJs senior Southeast Asia representative Shawn Crispin said in a statement.

This type of abuse is cruel and grotesque, Crispin said, adding that the military must stop jailing and abusing journalists now.

VOA was unable to independently verify the reports of abuse. However, rights groups have long documented torture in Myanmar custody. Former inmates at Insein Prison have reported beatings, burns and electrical shocks being administered.

In 2022, a journalist with the independent news outlet Frontier Myanmar said he was beaten and raped by regime soldiers while detained.

Myanmar ranks third worst in the world in terms of journalist jailings, according to CPJ, with 35 behind bars for their work as of December. Among them is a contributor to VOAs Burmese service.

The country ranks 171 out of 180 countries on the World Press Freedom Index, where 1 shows the best media freedom environment.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press.
Thousands of Namibians gathered on the outskirts of the capital Windhoek on Saturday to bid farewell to the countrys founding president, Sam Nujoma, who died last month in a private hospital at the age of 95. Heads of state from southern African countries joined Namibians at the funeral for Nujoma, who led the country to independence from apartheid-era South Africa.

As early as six oclock on Saturday morning, Namibians could be seen making their way, some on foot and others in their vehicles, to the National Shrine, the Heroes Acre, on the outskirts of Windhoek.

They came pay their final respects to the man who is credited with bringing independence to the southern African country thirty-five years ago.

Sam Nujoma died in a Windhoek hospital on February 8th after being hospitalized for three weeks.

Namibias current president, Nangolo Mbumba, described Nujoma as a giant who stood firm in the country's 24-year armed struggle for independence from South Africa.

Although our hearts are laden with grief, we take solace that President Sam Nujoma will now rest amongst his fellow illustrious heroes and heroines," he said. "[He] has completed his mission with distinction, fulfilling his destiny and leaving behind the most precious gift of freedom and independence for the people of Namibia.

Among the VIPs in attendance Saturday were South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Zimbabwes President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and Angolas President Joao Lourenco.

Former presidents Thabo Mbeki of South Africa and Joaquim Chissano of Mozambique could also be seen in the crowds of mourners who came to pay their last respects to the elder statesman.

Nujoma was the first leader of Namibias independence movement, the South West Africa Peoples Organization, and later served three terms as Namibias president.

Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana is his niece and a former cabinet minister who served as Namibias Attorney General. She is also vice-chairperson of the Sam Nujoma Foundation.

Nujoma united the people of Namibia who were divided according to the ethnic languages," she said. "During the war our people were made to fight against each other and at independence he introduced a policy of national reconciliation to forgive one another as brothers and sisters.

Public servant Chrispin Kapalu was also among the mourners who sang and danced as they braved the burning hot Namibian sun to bid farewell to the leader, whose name is captured in revolutionary struggle songs like Sema Uulipeni Elula Ee pandela, eelula epandela ola Namibia.

The lyrics mean "Sam Nujoma where are you, raise the flag.

Growing up we knew about Nujoma, different interpretations but after independence as young people then we could see the reality why our forefathers have to sacrifice their lives, said Kapalu.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Sunday he would speak with King Charles III about defending Canada's sovereignty, as President Donald Trump repeatedly calls for it to become the 51st U.S. state.

Trump's comments have been met with outrage in Canada, with officials firmly rejecting any discussion of it ever becoming a part of the United States.

When he meets Monday with King Charles, who is Canada's head of state, Trudeau said he hopes to "discuss matters of importance to Canada and to Canadians."

"And I can tell you that nothing is more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation," said the prime minister, while in London for a summit on Ukraine.

Trump has been particularly transfixed on Canadian sovereignty since winning a new term in November.

He regularly refers to Canada as the "51st state," and has demeaned Trudeau by calling him "governor," instead of prime minister.

Trump has ordered tariffs against the major U.S. trading partner, set to go into effect Tuesday, while saying they could be avoided if Canada were part of the United States.

Trudeau last month warned that Trump's persistent talk about absorbing Canada to access its natural resources was "a real thing."

Some Canadians have wondered aloud why King Charles has not spoken out in defense of Canada.

It is custom that the monarch acts only on the advice of the prime minister in matters involving the Commonwealth nation.

Last week, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer invited Trump for an unprecedented second state visit to the U.K., which could provide an opportunity for the king to raise the issue of Canadian sovereignty.

At the London summit on Ukrainian security Sunday, Trudeau also reiterated Canada's strong and unwavering support for Ukraine and announced new sanctions against Russia.
Chip giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. announced on Monday plans to make an additional $100 billion investment in the United States and build five additional chips factories in the coming years.

TSMC CEO C.C. Wei announced the plan in a meeting at the White House with President Donald Trump.

"We must be able to build the chips and semiconductors that we need right here," Trump said. "It's a matter of national security for us."

TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker, is a leading supplier to major U.S. hardware manufacturers.

The $100 billion outlay, which would boost domestic production and make the United States less reliant on semiconductors made in Asia, is in addition to a major prior investment announcement. TSMC agreed in April to expand its planned U.S. investment by $25 billion to $65 billion and to add a third Arizona factory by 2030.

With his Nov. 5 election victory largely driven by voters' economic concerns, Trump has stepped up efforts to bolster investments in domestic industries to create jobs.

The TSMC announcement is the latest in a string of such developments. In February, Apple said it would invest $500 billion in the next four years. Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani and SoftBank also have promised multibillion-dollar investments in the U.S.

TSMC said on Monday it looks "forward to discussing our shared vision for innovation and growth in the semiconductor industry, as well as exploring ways to bolster the technology sector along with our customers."

The U.S. Commerce Department under then President Joe Biden finalized a $6.6 billion government subsidy in November for TSMC's U.S. unit for semiconductor production in Phoenix, Arizona.

Biden signed the CHIPS and Science Act legislation in 2022 to provide $52.7 billion in subsidies for American semiconductor production and research.

Taiwan's dominant position as a maker of chips used in technology from cellphones and cars to fighter jets has sparked concerns of over-reliance on the island, especially as China ramps up pressure to assert its sovereignty claims.

China claims Taiwan as its territory, but the democratically elected government in Taipei rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims.

Under Biden, the Commerce Department convinced all five leading-edge semiconductor firms to locate factories in the U.S. as part of the program to address national security risks from imported chips.

Trump's Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told lawmakers last month that the program was "an excellent down payment" to rebuild the sector, but he has declined to commit grants that have already been approved by the department, saying he wanted to "read them and analyze them and understand them."

A TSMC spokesperson said last month the company had received $1.5 billion in CHIPS Act money before the new administration came in as per the milestone terms of its agreement.

TSMC last year agreed to produce the world's most advanced 2-nanometer technology at its second Arizona factory expected to begin production in 2028. TSMC also agreed to use its most advanced chip manufacturing technology called "A16" in Arizona.

TSMC has already begun producing advanced 4-nanometer chips for U.S. customers in Arizona.

The TSMC award included up to $5 billion in low-cost government loans.


An elderly man has been standing for years on the streets near Mosul University, offering books for free to anyone who wants to borrow them. Many of those who take the books are students from the university. The man says his goal is to encourage more people to read and increase the number of readers in the community.

Click here for the full story in Kurdish.
As nations mark World Wildlife Day, conservationists in Kenya are warning of shrinking wildlife spaces in the east African country that generates substantial revenue from wildlife tourism.

While conservation efforts over the past two decades have led to the recovery of many threatened species, the animals are losing wide swaths of habitat because of threats stemming from climate change and destructive human behavior, activists warn.

But they also cite an opportunity in what are known as wildlife corridors  strips of land connecting areas that would otherwise be separated by human activities. By allowing free movement of animals and reducing incidents of human-wildlife conflict, such corridors support the growth of wildlife populations.

One conservation group that is trying to create such corridors is Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, which lies about 260 kilometers north of Nairobi, the Kenyan capital. Lewa is owned by a nonprofit that has acquired more land in recent years in a bid to connect Mount Kenya forest preserve to rangelands in northern Kenya. The sanctuary is home to 14% of Kenya's remaining black rhinos, in addition to other mammal species ranging from lions to zebras.

An annual wildlife census was underway when the AP visited Lewa, where animal numbers have been going up over the years. The census involved the manual counting of each animal, with both ground rangers and aerial teams participating in the dayslong effort.

All this is an effort to ensure that we undertake the responsibility of accounting for every species that is found on Lewa, especially the most critically endangered ones and the threatened ones," said Dominic Maringa, head of conservation and wildlife at Lewa. We make sure its a full census.

Lewa's elephant population increased from 350 individuals in 2014 to over 450 in 2024, according to figures provided by the conservancy. Similar growth was seen among white and black rhinos, a major draw for visitors.

But rising wildlife populations strain ecosystems and need to be matched by stronger efforts to protect habitats and create new corridors, Maringa said.

As conservationists, you have to be looking at these trends, relate them to climate change, relate them with people and human-wildlife conflict," he said. Maybe you are enjoying seeing a lot of elephants or buffalos. But at the end of the day what does that mean? You have to make sure you think ahead of the population.

Kenyan authorities report wildlife population growth trends across the country. Figures from the wildlife authority show that elephant numbers have grown from around 16,000 in the late 1980s to nearly 37,000 in 2024. Black rhinos have increased from fewer than 400 in the 1990s to over 1,000 today. Critically endangered Grevys zebras now number over 2,000, while lions have grown to approximately 2,600.

But that success is threatened in some areas by growing human populations: Kenyas population has grown from 22 million in 1989 to over 55 million in 2025.

Kenya Wildlife Service, or KWS, is encouraging conservancies such as Lewa and private landowners to open up wildlife corridors for free animal movement, with translocation efforts also underway to redistribute animals from crowded ecosystems into less populated areas.

KWS, in a recent statement, cited the Tsavo-Amboseli ecosystem, an expansive protected area in southern Kenya that hosts key elephant migration routes, as increasingly under pressure due to human activities affecting the free movement of wildlife.

Similarly, the wildlife corridor known as Kitengela, which connects Nairobi National Park to the grasslands of southern Kenya, has faced fragmentation due to human settlements and infrastructure development.

Beside climate change, rapid urbanization driven by population growth is a major factor in the shrinking of wildlife corridors, according to KWS.

There is also the additional problem of wildfires, with Kenya Forest Service reporting over 180 wildfires that have damaged more than 1,358 hectares of vegetation across the country since the beginning of this year.
The United States says it has cut off intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, which could seriously curtail Kyivs ability to continue its three-year fight with Russia, even as Washington is quickly pushing the two countries toward peace talks to end the conflict.

President Donald Trump earlier in the week ordered the U.S. to suspend military aid to Kyivs fighters after his contentious meeting last week at the White House with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

CIA Director John Ratcliffe said Wednesday that the U.S. had also, for the moment, ended sharing its intelligence with Kyiv, although it could be short-lived after Zelenskyy said his heated exchanges with Trump in the Oval Office had been regrettable and that Ukraine was ready for peace talks with Russia.

"I think on the military front and the intelligence front, the pause [that prompted Ukraine's president to respond] I think will go away," Ratcliffe told the Fox Business Network.

"I think we'll work shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine as we have to push back on the aggression that's there, but to put the world in a better place for these peace negotiations to move forward," he said.

Since the start of the war in 2022, the U.S. has provided Ukraine with significant intelligence, including critical information its military needs for targeting Russian forces.

Mike Waltz, Trumps national security adviser, told reporters Wednesday that the U.S. "had taken a step back" and that the administration was "reviewing all aspects" of its intelligence relationship with Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Waltz told CBS News that the U.S. is moving quickly to start peace negotiations to end the war and sign a mineral rights deal with Kyiv.

"I think we're going to see movement in very short order," Waltz said.

He said Trump officials will meet with Ukrainian officials as they conduct shuttle diplomacy with Russia.

"I have literally just been on the phone with my counterpart, the Ukrainian national security adviser, talking about times, locations, delegations," Waltz said.

In a speech to the U.S. Congress Tuesday night, Trump said he had received a letter from Zelenskyy in which the Ukrainian leader expressed willingness to start war-ending negotiations with Russia.

"Wouldn't that be beautiful?" Trump said in an address to the U.S. Congress. "It's time to stop this madness. It's time to halt the killing. It's time to end this senseless war. If you want to end wars, you have to talk to both sides."

His description of the letter matched what Zelenskyy posted earlier in the day on social media, saying Ukraine was ready to negotiate as soon as possible and would work under Trumps strong leadership to reach a peace deal.

Zelenskyy said his acrimonious encounter with Trump at the White House last Friday was regrettable and that he remains ready to sign a deal that would give the United States substantial, long-term rights to Ukraines rare-earth minerals needed for the American manufacture of technology products.

In a post on X, the Ukrainian leader said in a statement that his discussions with Trump and Vice President JD Vance did not go the way it was supposed to be. It is time to make things right. We would like future cooperation and communication to be constructive.

Trump and Vance, seated close to each other in the Oval Office, assailed Zelenskyy as being ungrateful for the more than $100 billion worth of munitions the United States has sent to Kyivs forces to fend off Moscows 2022 invasion, even though the Ukrainian leader had on numerous occasions thanked the U.S.

We do really value how much America has done to help Ukraine maintain its sovereignty and independence, Zelenskyy said on Tuesday. And we remember the moment when things changed when President Trump provided Ukraine with Javelins, an anti-tank missile weapons system. We are grateful for this.

I would like to reiterate Ukraines commitment to peace, Zelenskyy said. None of us wants an endless war. Ukraine is ready to come to the negotiating table as soon as possible to bring lasting peace closer. Nobody wants peace more than Ukrainians.

Vance told VOA on Tuesday, We do believe that it's in Russia's best interest, but also Ukraine and the United States's best interest, to bring this conflict to a close.

Zelenskyy said the first stage of any truce in the fighting could be the release of [Russian and Ukrainian] prisoners [each country is holding] and truce in the sky  ban on missiles, long-ranged drones, bombs on energy and other civilian infrastructure  and truce in the sea immediately, if Russia will do the same.

Then we want to move very fast through all next stages and to work with the U.S. to agree a strong final deal, he said.

But reaching a peace deal could prove difficult. Ukraine has long demanded a restoration of its internationally recognized 2014 borders before Moscow unilaterally seized Ukraines Crimean Peninsula. Overall, Russia now holds about a fifth of Ukrainian territory, including much of eastern Ukraine, and has vowed to not return any of it to the Kyiv government.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is ready to sign a minerals agreement with the United States and added that relations with Donald Trump will continue. As for ending the war in Ukraine, the agreement is still "far away" and no real steps have been taken in this direction.

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The head of state said this during a conversation with journalists at the London airport. OBOZ.UA summarized the main points of the President's statements.

On relations with Trump

Zelenskyy said he believes he can save his relationship with US President Donald Trump after their explosive meeting in the Oval Office. At the same time, he emphasized that negotiations should continue behind closed doors.

"As for the preservation of relations, I think our relations will persist. I don't believe it's right when such discussions are entirely open... The way things unfolded, I don't think it provided us with anything positive or extra as partners," said the politician.

Zelenskyy added that he is still ready to sign the proposed minerals agreement with the United States and that he believes the United States will be ready as well.

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On the agreement to end the war

The President emphasized that an agreement to end the war is still "very, very far away." According to him, "no real steps have been taken in this direction" and Ukraine is not going to give up its territories, despite certain signals from its partners, including the United States.

"Today we are talking about the first steps and until they are on paper I would not like to talk about them in detail. The agreement on ending the war is still very, very far away. No one has started any steps. Peace must be just, fair, and sustainable. And it must have very specific security guarantees and specific bearers of these guarantees. With specific responsibility for the presence, if any, at sea, on land, and in the sky. We are not talking about concessions, because this would be the wrong conversation. We hear signals from the United States, but everyone must understand: Ukraine will never recognize the occupied territories as Russian," Zelenskyy said.

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On his resignation

"I can be exchanged for NATO. I said I would exchange for NATO membership, so I have fulfilled my mission," the president said.

He emphasized that it would be difficult to replace him: "It is not enough to hold elections. You have to prevent me from participating. And this will be a little more difficult. Because you still have to negotiate with me."

On helping Ukraine

Zelenskyy said that Kyiv appreciates the help of its partners and that support for Ukraine does not depend on individual political moments.

"The support will continue because Ukraine's failure is not just Putin's gain, but Europe and the United States' failure. We are all interested in preventing his victory," the head of state said.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, a summit of European leaders was held in London on March 2, dedicated to the security system on the continent and future security guarantees for Ukraine. At the meeting, EU leaders discussed the establishment of a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine.

The leaders agreed on several important steps to support Ukraine. Among the key decisions were the continuation of military aid to Ukraine and increased economic pressure on Russia.

Kier Starmer noted that any new agreement must be backed by force to ensure an effective outcome.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
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European leaders met in London Sunday to discuss the Ukraine-Russia war. Ukraines president received a warm welcome days after being asked to leave the White House following a heated exchange with President Donald Trump. VOAs Arash Arabasadi has more
The future of the ceasefire between Israel and U.S.-designated terror group Hamas is in doubt after Israel cut off all aid to the Gaza Strip, sparking panic buying. Israel says it wants to extend the current ceasefire for seven weeks, Hamas says it wants talks on a permanent end to the war.
A picture of Mason Disick as a baby, not of Mason Disicks baby. Photo: Marcel Thomas/FilmMagic

Kourtney Kadashian went on social media to debunk the rumor that her baby has a baby. Rumors have been swirling that Mason Disick, 15, has a child. Lies and mistruths, says Kourt! I rarely address rumors or conspiracies regarding myself or my family, but this is about my child and it feels wrong to let anyone think for a second that these lies are remotely true. They are not, she wrote on IG stories. Mason does not have a child.

My son really values his privacy, and I am asking all media to please be respectful: he is a kid with feelings and a beautiful life ahead of him. Please stop spreading false narratives and spinning lies, she continued. And to all the other people making videos about my kids (who, by the way, are minors), please stop and leave them alone. Mason is indeed more private than most of the Kardashians. The 15-year-old does not appear on The Kardashians, and only recently joined Instagram. And even there, hes mostly hiding his face.

This has been a weird week for Kardashian-Barker household. Beyond the Mason Teen Dad story, Kourtneys step-daughter Alabama Barker has been engaged in a rap beef with Bhad Bhabie. Kourtney also joined protests against the dumping of Palisades Fire waste in a Calabasas landfill.
Mayfair Witches The Innocents Season 2 Episode 8 Editors Rating 2 stars * *  Previous Next  Previous Episode Next Episode  Photo: Skip Bolen/AMC

Well, gee, what happened in The Innocents?

Emaleth spent the entire morning ejecting infants from her body like pop-tarts (in the Mayfair universe, the most powerful womans main function is Magic Womb), who were then fattened and trussed for the family to sacrifice and drink the blood. Lasher got his throat slashed on a stone altar, was healed in the nick of time by Rowan, and then killed again maybe an hour later. An entire team of Talamasca led a Taltos-baby rescue mission. A whole action sequence took out 90 percent of the Mayfair clan. Julien and Rowan both drank a goblet of Lashers blood, making them super-witches. Lark and Rowan broke up for good. And the whole team returned to New Orleans in time to save Jojo and Daphne. So, it must have been an exciting, action-packed episode, right? Actually, no. It mostly played out like an Escape Room designed for first-graders.

To explain why, let me propose a moment of silence for all the conflicts that withered on the vine this season: The Nola familys planned coup against Rowan, Sips tape recorder bible, The Sip and Lark love triangle, Bonnie. A few episodes ago, Sip agreed to help Moira on the condition that she help him with a favor. I didnt mention it then because I assumed it would come back up whenever Sip reunited with the main cast. It did not. I hope these plot points rest in peace because they surely will not be remembered.

But Mayfair Witches has two settings for conflict. No resolution or immediate resolution. In The Innocents, obstacles evaporated the moment they appeared, like Whack-a-Mole, except all the moles are stationary. An example: Sip and Polina have been thrown into Ian Mayfairs home prison (a must for every supernatural villain property), complete with iron bars and a surly watchman, but this turns out to be an extremely minor setback. Sip tells Polina in Dutch (Sip speaks Dutch?) about the trust tab I mistakenly thought hed already used on Moira. All they have to do is tag the surly watchman and hell do whatever they say. Problem solved.

Example two: you might think Rowan has been screwed when Julien, still wearing his Cortland skin suit, doses her first thing in the morning and throws her in the same home prison. But no sooner has her passed-out ass touched her stone cot than Sip and Polina are speaking the magic antidote and waking her up. Because Rowan is an irredeemable asshole, her first reaction is to accuse them of kidnapping her, as if she didnt just see Cortland/Julien poison her coffee. But that is neither here nor there.

A cynic might speculate that this pointless prison break exercise was just a lazy way to get Sip and Rowans characters together at the top of the episode. Especially since Moira is being held captive elsewhere, implying that Ian maintains at least two personal jails on his property (really top-of-the-line antagonist real estate, here), and it would not serve the plot, such as it is, for their characters to be together yet. One also wonders if Mayfair Witches kept Moira in lockup for an entire episode because her mind-reading powers would render all of our other narrative action DOA. Like, youre telling me it took two days just for Moira to get Fiona close enough to hold a knife to her throat?

In any case, now that the tedious business of busting out of jail is done, Moira cleverly disguises herself as one of the clan with a barely passable Scottish accent and seamlessly och, ayes her way into the heart of the child massacre preparations. This episode is as frictionless as a dolphins ass, so why would a relative nobody recognize raise any suspicions? Moving on.

Rowan is following her fingers to the site of Lashers ritual murder, where she finds him moments away from bleeding out onto the grass. Would it surprise you to learn that the Mayfairs lured Lasher into the woods, sliced his windpipe, and collected the blood in a ceremonial chalice, all with zero pushback? It shouldnt because weve already established that, ancient deity or not, if youre looking for a buyer for that bridge of yours, Lasher is your man. So Rowan zaps him back to health with her magic fingers, and were ready to tackle the next non-problem  rescuing all eight(ish?) of Lashers 9-year-old newborns.

This is when Rowan finally lives up to her genius reputation and outwits the enemy with a brilliant scheme that takes advantage of her extra-strength magical powers. Just kidding. Julien/Cortland has already gone ahead and un-stitched Larks body from Ian and co. for reasons that will not ever become clear; so they can just go ahead and attack, which they do. Well, Lasher and his dire wolf familiar  oh, Lasher has a dire wolf familiar, by the way  attack. R.I.P. Ian. Rowan, true to form, mostly stands around (okay, she got one) until Mrs. Mayfair throws an axe at her baby/loverboy Lasher (who Rowan would never in a million years think of killing wherever did you get that idea). Suddenly, Rowan remembers that shes Zeus and blasts Mrs. M with a lightning bolt, but its too late. Lasher is dead for real this time. Well, that was fun.

Now, weve got Julien/Cortland grinning at Rowan with a chaliceful of Lasher and a blood mustache, urging her to drink because itll make them all-powerful wonder twins. The Catholic in me recognizes that this is supposed to be giving Satanic priest with all the this is the blood of the new and everlasting covenant vibes, but all Im actually getting is playground drug pusher. Why didnt the Mayfairs do this 500 years ago when they killed Lasher the first time? asks Rowan. Because yeah, that is the plot hole were all really concerned with right now.

Rowan pretends like shes not really gonna drink the Lasher blood long enough for Sip and his Talamasca SWAT team to rescue all the Taltos kiddos, who have been innocently scarfing down homemade ice cream about 30 feet away this whole time. (How did the Talamasca get there so fast? Why are you still asking questions?) Oh, and Julien/Cortland kills Polina. All of this happens before noon, by the way.

God, how much longer do we have to go now?

Yada, yada, Rowen drinks the Lasher blood, and suddenly, we cut to the dock, where she, Lark, and Moira are congratulating themselves on a job well done while they wait for the ferry. With a cooler full of Lashers blood in tow. (How did they get it from his body? Actually, never mind.) Right now, were focused on Lark shrewdly deciding that this relationship isnt going to work out. Bring on the amnesia tea that will make him forget he and Rowan ever met. Does he know hes in Scotland, though? Does he still have his flight information? Who cares, says Mayfair Witches.

Cut to back in New Orleans, where the house is looking rough but still standing. We get to hear but not see Rowan undo Jojo and Daphnes thrall, and, most miraculously of all, nobody is mad at her. And Julien/Cortland is watching from the bushes. The end, I guess.

Additional Questions, Comments, and Concerns

 Nobody knows where Emaleth and the one baby she wanted to nurse personally went, but if you see her, dont tell Elon Musk about her super-womb because she has been through enough.
National Security Advisor to the President of the United States Mike Waltz has once again voiced a "condition" for Ukraine to end the war with Russia. According to him, Kyiv must "agree to territorial concessions" to receive security guarantees in return.

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At the same time, the security guarantees should be "under the leadership of Europe," the politician said on CNN on Sunday, March 2. Waltz did not specify what commitments the United States could make.

At the same time, he noted that the aggressor country, Russia, should agree to the deployment of European peacekeepers in Ukraine.

"I want to say that this war has to end, and this requires territorial concessions. This will require concessions from Russia on security guarantees. This requires all parties to sit down at the negotiating table. And we are working very hard to advance these negotiations," said the Donald Trump adviser.

The American official also did not specify what kind of territorial concessions he was talking about.

"We can't get specifics from the Ukrainians, but it will be some kind of territorial concession in exchange for further security guarantees," he said.

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According to Waltz, this was discussed during previous rounds of negotiations.

"These should be European-led security guarantees, a partial contribution of Europe to its own security," Waltz said.

It should be noted that the day before, Mike Waltz again criticized President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's style of dress at a meeting with Trump at the White House. He said that he was "not dressed to deal with peace."

The official said that he did not understand whether Zelenskyy really wanted to stop the fighting because he was "not dressed to deal with such issues."

As reported by OBOZ.UA, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries called on the Donald Trump administration to exercise mature leadership in its relations with Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Cooperation must be maintained for the sake of stability in the free world, the politician emphasized.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Just you & I!!!!! Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

On March 2, Hollywoods best and brightest gathered in the Dolby Theatre wearing their glitziest finery for the most important event in show business: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo singing Defying Gravity live onstage together for the first time. The backdrop to this monumental occasion was the 97th annual Academy Awards, which opened with a Musical Dorothy Gale Force Showdown. Grande wore a sparkly red gown evoking Dorothys ruby slippers, and sang maybe the most iconic song in film history, Somewhere Over the Rainbow. Then, Erivo took the stage, singing the next-most-iconic Dorothy track, Home from The Wiz, a perfect song for the vocal stylings of Erivo.

But these two numbers  and perhaps 97 years of film history  were just leading up to Defying Gravity from Wicked: Part One. They did the if we work in tandem part together, before Grande stepped back for Erivo to let out her battle cry. You would think this was the musical high point of the evening  but wait until you see host Conan OBriens I Wont Waste Time song. Theres a sand worm playing the piano. Id like to see Dr. Dillamond try to play the piano. Those hooves would be clompin.
Maybe she was in the sandworm costume. Photo: Amy Sussman/Getty Images for SiriusXM

You think you know someone, that you can depend on them, that they will not let you down when they host the Academy Awards. But then they disappoint you when they refuse to bring out their long-suffering assistant. We at Vulture are big fans of Conan OBrien, but the truth is that we are even bigger fans of his assistant Sona Movsesian, who co-hosts his Conan OBrien Needs a Friend podcast. Silly us, we assumed that their long relationship might warrant OBrien bringing her out at the Oscars  especially since it was brought up as a topic on the pod. And yet, no. He stuck to telling jokes, and doing funny bits, and negging the entire country of Estonia. And its not like she didnt have opportunities. She couldve knocked on the dressing-room door as Conan climbed out of Demi Moores body. In his number that was specifically made to waste time, she would have been a lovely person to feature instead of Dancing Deadpool. Sona and Deadpool have the same amount of Oscar nominations, after all. (Zero.)

I think Conan did a great job, Movsesian tells Vulture exclusively. But he was clearly missing a very important element and I think that element is a loud Armenian with frizzy hair. The only solution to this catastrophe? Let Sona host the whole thing next year. And bring back Shai-Hulud on keys.

This post has been updated with a statement.
Keeping pace with Hollywoods perpetual awards horserace. Sign up for the newsletter here. Gascon. Photo: ABC

Emilia Perez star Karla Sofia Gascon has been noticeably absent for most of awards season since racist tweets were unearthed last month. However, she made it out to the Oscars (despite skipping the red carpet) only to face the wrath of Conan OBriens monologue. Heres how Gascon reacted to OBriens jokes about the controversial actress.

A monologue to remember

March 2, 2025: OBriens jokes about Gascon were brief but memorable. Anora uses the F-word 479 times. Thats more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascons publicist. You did what!, OBrien joked in a bit thats shorter than the X character limit. When the camera first panned to Gascon, she pressed her hands together and bowed to the camera. However, during OBriens button on the joke, where he said Karla, if you are going to tweet about the Oscars tonight, my name is Jimmy Kimmel, Gascon was seemingly not paying attention as she leaned over to ask something to the person beside her. So OBrien (and the Irish) might not fully be safe from a clapback from Gascon.

A return to the ol stomping grounds

March 3, 2025: It seems that Gascon got her Instagram password back. The next day after the Oscars, Gascon thanked Academy members for the nomination and the invitation to the gala in an IG caption written in Spanish. She even referenced OBriens monologue when reflecting on the night in her review. She wrote, I liked it a lot, very pleasant and fun, above all your fabulous host Jimmy Kimmel. Hes fantastic and every day he looks more like the grand Conan OBrien. Turns out she didnt miss the end of his joke.
Photo: Frank Micelotta/Disney via Getty Images

Every year, we arrive at the Oscars somewhat exhausted by the monthslong awards season, which this year involved a controversial front-running film, the plentiful problematic tweets of its lead actress, and precursor awards and voting windows that had to move dates due to the catastrophic L.A. wildfires. Now, its time to down that second cup of coffee, because Oscar night is here, and its the most uncertain race in years. What we do know is that Conan OBrien is hosting for the first time, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are set to perform something from Wicked; Lord only knows what Doja Cat, Lisa, and Raye will get up to, and June Squibb is in the building. And were on it! Well be tracking all the presenter pairs, surprise wins, and acceptance speech moments both ridiculous and sublime. Join us! Joe Reid
Directors Adra and Abraham. Photo: Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

One year after Zionist-supported blowback against Jonathan Glazers acceptance speech for Best International Feature Film, in which he called out the dehumanization of Palestinian people, No Other Land, a documentary about Palestinian resistance, wins Best Documentary Film at the 2025 Oscars. About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope to my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I am living now, Palestinian director and star Basel Adra said in his acceptance speech. Always fearing violence, home demolitions, and displacement that my community is living and facing every day. He added that, No Other Land reflects the harsh reality that weve been enduring for decades, and still exists as we call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.

We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together, our voices are stronger, Israeli co-director and co-star Yuval Abraham said, adding, When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and he is under military law that destroy his life and he cannot control. He also turned an eye toward the American audience. There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people, he said. And I have to say, as I am here, the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he would meet with U.S. President Donald Trump if it comes to "solving real problems." At the same time, Ukraine is ready to accept the minerals agreement, which failed to be signed last week due to a dispute in the Oval Office.

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This was reported by Bloomberg. In addition, the Ukrainian president recognized Kyiv's dependence on US military support.

"We are worthy of an equal dialogue," Zelenskyy said after participating in the security summit of European leaders on Sunday, March 2.

According to the newspaper, the Ukrainian leader emphasized that holding such an open conversation was not positive for both the United States and Ukraine. At the same time, Zelenskyy is confident that "the situation will pass, and there are more important things ahead."

"If the US president invites him 'for a constructive dialogue, for solving real problems, for serious questions and real, decisive actions and answers, I will come,'" the newspaper reported, citing the Ukrainian president.

Zelenskyy noted that the agreement on natural resources with the United States is ready to be signed at the ministerial level. He emphasized that Ukraine is not abandoning this proposal, despite the events that have taken place and is ready to accept the agreement.

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The guarantor also emphasized his right to defend the dignity of his country and people, calling on his partners to be understanding of the suffering that Ukraine has endured after three years of Russian invasion.

"I am ready for any format of constructive relations with the United States," Zelenskyy said.

As a reminder, in an interview with Fox News, Zelenskyy said that he did not consider it necessary to apologize to US President Donald Trump over their dispute in the White House. However, the Ukrainian leader regrets what happened, he claims that Trump needs to "understand the position of Ukrainians."

As OBOZ.UA reported, on February 28, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy paid an official visit to the United States. At the White House, he met with President Donald Trump, and earlier he spoke with U.S. senators. They also planned to sign an agreement on minerals between Ukraine and the United States.

During the talks at the White House, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US President Donald Trump, and Vice President J.D. Vance had a dispute over negotiations with Russia.

The dispute led to Volodymyr Zelenskyy leaving the White House early. The minerals agreement, as previously announced, was not signed.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Tributes pour in for Eleonora Giorgi who is remembered for her films and love of life.

Italian actress Eleonora Giorgi has died in Rome at the age of 71, following a long battle with pancreatic cancer, her family said on Monday.

Since revealing her illness on television in 2023, Giorgi maintained a positive outlook on life, inviting everyone to "live without wasting their time".

Giorgi had a long and varied career in Italian cinema and television, appearing in dozens of films in the 1970s and 1980s, many of which were comedies and erotic comedies, as well as taking on dramatic roles.

Her best-known films include Mia moglie e una strega (1980), Grand Hotel Excelsior (1982), and Borotalco (1982), for which she won the David di Donatello award and remembered it as "the most beautiful role of my career".

Italy's culture minister Alessandro Giuli in a statement hailed Giorgi as "an eclectic popular interpreter of Italian cinema whose talent has marked entire generations of spectators, ranging from brilliant to dramatic roles with intensity and authenticity.

Deputy premier Antonio Tajani in a post on X described Giorgi as a "star of Italian cinema" and "a brave woman who never stopped smiling and fighting for her life, even in the face of a terrible disease."

Carlo Verdone, with whom Giorgi starred in his cult 1982 film Borotaclo, wrote a fond tribute to his friend in a post on Instragram.

"Thank you for giving me your lightheartedness, your enthusiasm, your smile and your precious friendship" - Verdone said - "And thank you for being a great, courageous example for everyone during this hard and merciless year".

Giorgi, who leaves behind two adult sons and a grandson, passed away with gratitude and without regrets, as she said in a television interview last September.

"I feel flooded with goodness and I have no hard feelings" - she said - "There is one mad thing that I have to say: this has been the best year of my life, I have been loved like never before."

Her funeral will be held at the Chiesa degli Artisti in Rome's central Piazza del Popolo at 16.00 on Wednesday.
Meloni urges bridge-building and says West must avoid risk of dividing on Ukraine.

Italy's prime minister Giorgia Meloni met with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in London on Sunday on the sidelines of a leaders' summit to discuss a new peace plan in Ukraine.

The meeting, aimed at strengthening military cooperation and reaffirming support for Ukraine in its war against Russia, came just two days after fiery exchanges between Zelensky and US president Donald Trump in Washington.

The summit of 18 Western leaders, hosted by British prime minister Keir Starmer, included Italian premier Meloni, French president Emmanuel Macron, German chancellor Olaf Scholz, Canadian prime minster Justin Trudeau and European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen.

Announcing a four-point plan to work with Ukraine to end the war and defend the country from Russia, Starmer said that the UK, France and other countries would form a "coalition of the willing" and seek to involve the US in their support for Ukraine.

Meloni said that Italy and the UK can "build bridges" between Europe and the US, stessing: "I think it is very, very important that we avoid the risk of the West splitting. And I think that in this the UK and Italy can play an important role."

"If we divide ourselves that will make us all weaker, Meloni said.

Dichiarazioni alla stampa con il Primo Ministro del Regno Unito @Keir_Starmer pic.twitter.com/qVT9rrXDqN  Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) March 2, 2025

Meloni's bilateral meeting with Zelensky provided an opportunity "to reiterate Italys support for Ukraine and its people as well as its commitment, together with European and Western partners and the United States, to building a just and lasting peace that can ensure a future of sovereignty, security and freedom for Ukraine", her office said in a statement.

"A good meeting with the Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, to develop a joint action plan to end the war with a just and lasting peace" - Zelensky wrote on Telegram - "No one is interested in the continuation of the war, except Putin, so it is important to maintain unity around Ukraine and strengthen the position of our State in collaboration with allies."

On Friday, following the clash between Trump and Zelensky, Meloni had called for "an immediate summit" between the US, European states and allies to discuss Ukraine.

The rift between Trump and Zelensky is problematic for Meloni who has sought to walk a tightrope between nurturing her bond with the US president while also maintaining support for Ukraine.

Photo: Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky with Italy's prime minister Giorgia Meloni at Palazzo Chigi in Rome on 13 May 2023. Photo credit: Alessia Pierdomenico / Shutterstock.com.
Slava's Snowshow at Teatro Olimpico from 26-30 March.

Billed as an unmissable show for adults and children, Slava's Snowshow promises "emotions, laughter, poetry and so much sweetness", conjuring up magical snowstorms on the cold Russian steppes.

The show created by the performance artist Slava Polunin is described as poetic, universal and timeless however it is not suitable for children under 8 years old.

The production by the Accademia Filarmonica Romana is held in collaboration with Teatro Olimpico, for full details see theatre website.
The spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Heorhii Tykhyi, responded to the statement by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, who called President Volodymyr Zelenskyy "a pure Nazi and a traitor to the Jewish people." He called on Israel to condemn this "disgusting lie" by the Russian diplomat.

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On the social network X, Tykhyi recalled that in 2022 Lavrov had already claimed that Adolf Hitler had "Jewish blood." At the same time, the Foreign Ministry spokesman emphasized that the Russian's statements were "not just crazy," but anti-Semitic.

"Such statements are not just crazy. They should be accused of what they really are: anti-Semitism," he wrote.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry called on Israel and Jewish organizations around the world to condemn Lavrov's repeated and outrageous lies.

As reported, in 2022, Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid called Lavrov's words "inexcusable, outrageous" and a "gross historical mistake."

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, Lavrov once again said that Russia would not agree to "territorial concessions" during negotiations with Ukraine. But before discussing territories, he suggests starting with issues that are more important for Russian propaganda, such as the ban on the Russian language in Ukraine and the UOC-MP.

Earlier, the Russian minister spoke about the possibility of deploying foreign peacekeepers in Ukraine. According to Lavrov, the Kremlin is not considering such options.

The Kremlin also stated that there would be no halt to hostilities in Ukraine along the contact line. The occupiers intend to continue the war of aggression on foreign territory, which they have already written into their constitution.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and in Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Central Statistics Office has revealed the most popular baby names in Waterford last year.

In 2024, the most popular name for a girl in Waterford City was Bonnie.

In Waterford County, it was Sophie.

For boys last year, the most popular baby name was Noah in the city and Charlie in the county.

NATIONWIDE

Nationally, the most popular name for a girl last year was Sophie overtaking Grace in 2023.

Jack remained the most popular boy's name.

Noah was also the most popular name for a boy in Roscommon, Wicklow, the Dublin areas, and Donegal and it tied with Jack in Louth.

Waterford County was the only place where Charlie was the most popular name.

Similarly, Waterford City was the only place where Bonnie was the most popular name.
Scores of people flocked to Garter Lane for the official premiere of 'Love Bite' - a blood-curdling romp into vampire madness.

Made by students from the Vita Community Hub on Parnell Street, the film was a joyous adventure following main character Alucard (write it backwards) and his quest for love.

Producer and community support worker Karen Keena told Waterford News & Star: "We're part of the Rehab Care organisation. We have 24 students and we run different programmes, one of the programmes is movie-making.

Garter Lane.

"The guys were meeting once a week, putting a script together, rehearsing."

The project was funded by WWETB. Actor James thanked Community Education Coordinator Deborah Butler for her support, saying: "[She] would have been very supportive of the group and it wouldn't have been possible Without her kindness and her belief in the group."

Horror comedy

Inspired by films Nosferatu and What We Do in the Shadows, 'Love Bite' is a horror-comedy slapstick film that takes great advantage of the gothic elements of Waterford like Jenkin's Lane, Cathedral Square and the halls of De La Salle. The actors are fantastic in the roles, giving full-hearted, hilarious performances as characters that they developed themselves. Ash Moran in particular bought the house down in her turn as Vanessa Von Krapp, a therapist with some questionable practices.

Director Philip Cullen made a film that shows off the cast's creativity, humour and talent. James said: "This project was; can we make a film for a group of people with additional support needs that's adult, that's not catered, that's not censored?

"They're adults and it's their film and it's their expression that we're going to see on screen today."

The screening of the film raised over 600 for The Jack and Jill Foundation.
With early Oscar favourite Emilia Perez mired in controversy and The Brutalist dividing audiences, the Brazilian film Im Still Here has emerged as the surprise success this awards season.

In January, its lead, Fernanda Torres, pipped Nicole Kidman and Angelina Jolie to win the Golden Globe for her performance. She has been working the US chat show circuit in a bid to repeat her performance at the Oscars, where she is nominated for best actress while the film is up for both best international film and best picture.

Selton Mello as Rubens Paiva and Fernanda Torres as his determined wife Eunice in Im Still Here. Credit: Sony Pictures Classics

Im Still Here, directed by Walter Salles, tells the true story of the Paiva family, ripped apart in 1971 when Rubens Paiva, a civil engineer and former Labour politician, was taken for questioning by government agents one afternoon and never returned. Torres plays his wife Eunice, who was also imprisoned and tortured. After 13 days, she was released and returned home to their five children. It is estimated that under the dictatorship from 1964 to 1985, some 20,000 people were abducted and tortured.

Salles, whose own family fled Brazil between 1964 and 1969, knew the Paivas family as a teenager.
Moore has been living up to The Substances promise of eternal youth throughout this awards season, and the crystal embroidery, plunging neckline and pleated hips of this dress carry her across the flawless finish line. Lupita Nyongo Lupita Nyongo in Chanel on the red carpet. Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP In a comeback worthy of Demi Moore, Chanel may finally be cool again, thanks to Lupita Nyongo. In a sparkling sequin corset worn over a white gown with pearl-lined straps, The Wild Robot actor added contemporary elegance to the label, which has struggled to find its red carpet footing since the death of Karl Lagerfeld in 2019.

Nyongos dress features 22,410 embroidery elements and took 600 hours to complete. Zoe Saldana in Saint Laurent, Timothee Chalamet in Givenchy by Sarah Burton, Cynthia Erivo in Louis Vuitton and Vivienne Westwood at the Oscars. Credit: AP, Getty Images Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana in Saint Laurent at the Oscars. Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/A The pouffe skirt has returned, and Emilia Perez actress Zoe Saldana delivered the news on the Oscars red carpet, with three versions layered on her Saint Laurent gown.

The divisive silhouette, rising to a narrow netted bust, challenged the fit-and-flare approach taken by most stylists. It was part medieval lady of the manor, part anemone, but wholly fabulous. Timothee Chalamet Timothee Chalamet in Givenchy. Credit: Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP At first glance the A Complete Unknown stars butter yellow suit from Givenchy appears devoid of references to its subject Bob Dylan, but look closer. Below the cropped double-breasted jacket and matching silk shirt, the jeans-cut trousers have been rendered in leather softer than a banana skin.



The black loafers only encourage the banana comparisons, but this considered choice is not a style slip-up. Cynthia Erivo Cynthia Erivo in Vivienne Westwood at the Oscars. Credit: Disney via Getty Images Lets be clear  this shout-out is not for the wide, deep green velvet Louis Vuitton dress that the red carpet held a lot of space for, enveloping Erivo on arrival at the Oscars. The white Vivienne Westwood creation, strewn with flowers, worn while Erivo broke hearts singing Home from The Wiz on stage had all the magic of Carrie Bradshaws wedding dress from the Sex and the City movie, without the Big drama.

Tie: Emma Stone and Selena Gomez Selena Gomez in Ralph Lauren (left) and Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton at the Oscars. Credit: AP, Getty Images Embellishment was the order of the day with Selena Gomez in a Ralph Lauren dress and Emma Stone in Louis Vuitton reaching similar heights of polished perfection. Loading The sensual fit of Gomezs gown, made by 12 artisans and featuring 16,000 glass droplets, was reminiscent of the Marilyn Monroe dress worn by Kim Kardashian to the Met Gala in 2022, except no preservationists were upset by the Emilia Perez producer.

The scaly surface of Stones dress was equally intriguing, employing a new fabrication technique from Louis Vuitton creative director Nicolas Ghesquiere. Tie: Omar Apollo & Colman Domingo Omar Apollo (left) and Colman Domingo in Valentino at the Oscars. Credit: AP, Getty Images Singer and Queer actor Apollo delivered a cover version of co-star Drew Starkeys SAG awards look by wearing a polka dot silk scarf as a tie at the Oscars. Adding drama worthy of Marlene Dietrich in Shanghai Express (1932), Apollo accessorised his Valentino suit with a suitably queer veil. Colman Domingo, also in Valentino, didnt need a scarf or veil for his red and black smoking jacket. The sharp result was a level of playboy swagger that even Hugh Hefner failed to attain in his lifetime.

The Celine Dion Award: Lisa

Lisa (left) at the Oscars in Mark Gong; Celine Dion at the 1999 Oscars in Christian Dior by John Galliano. Credit: AP Women wearing suits on the Oscars red carpet must overcome the Celine Dion handicap. In 1999, Dion attracted the unwanted attention of the fashion police at the Oscars in a white, back-to-front suit from Christian Dior. Following the initial criticism the outfit has become a classic, with Dion having the last laugh. Lisa, a breakout star of The White Lotus, is an instant hit in a Mark Gong coat dress and shirt worn over trousers.
Former political staffer Brittany Higgins and her ex-journalist husband David Sharaz have welcomed their first child.

Higgins, a former Liberal adviser, and Sharaz announced the birth of their son in an Instagram post on Sunday night.

Former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins and David Sharaz married last year. Credit: Instagram

A huge thank-you to the amazing midwives, nurses and doctors for their care and kindness, Higgins wrote alongside pictures of her son clasping her hand.

Were both looking forward to getting to dote on the newest member of the family  forever grateful for all the love and support weve received.
Australia will step up the supply of Abrams tanks to Ukraine as European leaders make a new push for a ceasefire after three years of war despite a dramatic warning from United States President Donald Trump about scaling back military support.

The Australian support will not come with peacekeepers to patrol Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire with Russia, amid talks in Europe about assembling a force to help secure the countrys borders.

The bipartisan support for Ukraine came at the same time as a growing dispute over Australian defence spending. The Coalition promises to spend $3 billion on new F-35A fighter jets, but Labor estimates the aircraft would cost at least $11.5 billion.

An Australian Army M1A1 Abrams tank.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton publicly backed Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky in public remarks on Monday, signalling bipartisan support for Ukraine despite the angry message from Trump.
On the morning of March 3, 2025, members of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) in Anhui set off from Hefei to Beijing to attend the Third Session of the 14th National Committee of the CPPCC, which opens on March 4.

Before heading to Beijing, the committee members visited fields, factories, hospitals, schools, and communities for research and discussions, seeking insights and needs from the public. They prepared several proposals focusing on hot topics such as technological innovation, industrial clustering, artificial intelligence, and rural revitalization, aiming to bring the voices of the people of Anhui to the conference.

Committee members expressed their commitment to fulfilling their responsibilities, present quality proposals, actively participate in discussions, delivering a high-quality performance in their duties.





Source: Anhuinews.com
Russia will not stop in Ukraine if it is not opposed in any peace or ceasefire negotiations. Putin understands only force. Therefore, we must be cruel.

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This was stated by Finnish President Alexander Stubb in an interview with Bloomberg. He also proposed a three-step plan to achieve peace, in which Ukraine must first be put in a "strong position."

"This plan includes more support for Ukraine, tougher sanctions against Russia, and the use of frozen assets, and should be combined with a security arrangement where 'Europe supports Ukraine and the United States provides support,'" Stubb said.

The politician added that only these steps should be followed by a ceasefire and then peace talks.

"The only thing Vladimir Putin understands is strength. If you show any weakness, he will essentially come after you," Stubb said.

He highlighted that the danger of any peace agreement regarding Ukraine is whether the peace can be sustained. Stubb reminded that since 2014, the Russian dictator has failed to comply with ceasefire agreements 25 times.

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"I don't think anyone can trust Vladimir Putin but don't underestimate Donald Trump's ability to make deals. And tough deals at that. The most important thing we have to understand is that if this agreement demonstrates any weakness or loss for Ukraine, we will all lose," the Finnish president summarized.

Earlier, Alexander Stubb said that Europe should adopt its own plan for ending Russia's war against Ukraine and demonstrate it to the American side. Otherwise, European countries may not get a seat at the negotiating table.

At the summit in the UK, the leaders agreed on several important steps to support Ukraine. Among the key decisions are the continuation of military aid to Ukraine and increased economic pressure on Russia.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, on March 2, a summit of European leaders was held in London to discuss the security system on the continent and future security guarantees for Ukraine. The UK expressed hope that the meeting would bring Ukraine closer to establishing a just and sustainable peace.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A single cut to official interest rates has put a floor under Australian house values, with signs of recovery in Sydney and Melbourne and confirmation that the heat has come out of the nations ultra-expensive rental market.

As Treasurer Jim Chalmers and the oppositions Angus Taylor set themselves up for at least one election campaign debate on the state of the economy, figures from CoreLogic released on Monday show the February interest rate cut has buoyed the spirits of potential buyers.

House values have risen across the country but rents are easing, according to new data. Credit: Peter Rae

After 10 consecutive months of declines, Melbournes median house value rose 0.4 per cent in February while the value of units across the city increased 0.2 per cent. Despite the rise, house values in Melbourne are down 3.1 per cent over the past year while apartments have slipped 3.2 per cent.

In Sydney, house values lifted 0.3 per cent to be up 1.3 per cent over the past 12 months. Apartment values also inched up, by 0.2 per cent, in February to be 0.7 per cent stronger over the past year.
Washington and Moscow have been repairing relations at breakneck speed, comparable only to the speed at which the Trump administration is breaking things at home. After meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Saudi Arabia on February 18, the Russian foreign minister, Sergei Lavrov, said the two sides had resolved to eliminate impediments to improving bilateral relations, a phrasing that sent chills down the spines of Russian exiles  me included  who have sought what at the time seemed like safe harbour in the United States.

Of course, Russias president, Vladimir Putin, has his sights set on much more than a bunch of political exiles. And his negotiations with President Donald Trump about Ukraine are not just about Ukraine. Putin wants nothing less than to reorganise the world, the way Joseph Stalin did with the accords he reached with Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill in the Crimean city of Yalta in February 1945. Putin has wanted to carve the globe up for a long time. Now, at last, Trump is handing him the knife.

Volodymyr Zelensky, Donald Trump and Vice President J. D. Vance during their explosive meeting in the Oval Office. Credit: Bloomberg

How do I know Putin wants this? Because he has said so. In fact, he, Lavrov and a cadre of Kremlin propagandists and revisionist historians havent shut up about Yalta for more than a decade. After illegally annexing Crimea in 2014, Putin addressed a gathering celebrating the 70th anniversary of the accords; it culminated in the unveiling of a monument to the three Allied leaders.

His reverence for the Yalta accords goes beyond the glorification of the once-mighty Soviet Union and its leader Stalin; he believes that the agreement those three heads of state struck  with the Soviet Union keeping three Baltic states it had annexed as well as parts of Poland and Romania, and later securing domination over six eastern and central European countries and part of Germany  remains the only legitimate framework for European borders and security. In February, as Russia celebrated the accords 80th anniversary and prepared to sit down with the Trump administration, Lavrov and the official Russia historians reiterated this message in article after article.
On 3 March every year, the global community comes together to celebrate United Nations World Wildlife Day (WWD), recognizing the essential role that wild animals and plants play in sustaining ecosystems, economies and human well-being.

Under the slogan Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet, the 2025 edition of WWD places the spotlight on the need for innovative solutions to fund the protection of wildlife and wildlife habitat, and to ensure long-term conservation efforts.

Customs administrations contribute to these efforts by combating the illegal wildlife trade. As explained by the WCO Secretary General, Ian Saunders, Customs plays a fundamental role in protecting biodiversity through its mandate to stop the illegal wildlife trade, and facilitate the legal trade in endangered species of fauna and flora. By disrupting the illegal wildlife trade, we safeguard ecosystems and economies, and increase security. Wildlife criminals are constantly adapting and so must we, especially through intelligence-driven enforcement, strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology.

While assisting Customs administrations in their efforts to combat trafficking in wildlife which undermines vital conservation work, the WCO has been supported by a range of donors and Customs administrations, who have provided the Organization with accredited and recognized experts to help administrations implement effective and efficient controls and deploy modern working methods leveraging data exchange at the international level. The WCO also collaborates with enforcement agencies, conservation organizations and other stakeholders to bolster its wildlife protection actions.

A pool of highly competent illegal wildlife trade experts has been set up to lead capacity-building activities and provide training and guidance to Customs administrations, thereby strengthening their capability in this domain. Sound management of funds, pooled resources, and strong partnerships with other organizations and law enforcement agencies have enabled the WCO to deliver training, develop practical guidance, organize enforcement operations, and support intelligence-sharing initiatives.

The Operation THUNDER series, a flagship global enforcement initiative conducted in collaboration with INTERPOL and other International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC) partners, has consistently resulted in major seizures and the dismantling of trafficking networks. Similarly, Operation PRAESIDIO III, which focused on enhancing border controls and dismantling organized wildlife trafficking networks in selected African and Asian countries, has had a substantial impact. Such operations not only lead to direct enforcement actions but also provide valuable intelligence, boost risk assessment capabilities and inform future policy development.

The WCO shares the United Nations view that Investing in wildlife is not an aspiration, it is a necessity! It is our collective responsibility towards a resilient future for both people and the planet. The WCO remains committed to mobilizing resources to fight wildlife trafficking and to promoting a collaborative approach leveraging the expertise, knowledge and strategic vision of all stakeholders.
If on Thursday  as soon as the unusual operation in which Mexico sent 29 drug traffickers to the United States came to light  there was talk of extradition, hours later doubts began to arise and questions multiplied about the exact nature of the legal basis that expedited their delivery and unblocked extradition processes that had been stuck for years in the courts. The U.S. authorities employed different terms: transfer, said the Attorney Generals Office; extradition, said the White House; expulsion, said the State Department. Last Friday, Mexican Prosecutor General Alejandro Gertz clarified in a press conference that it was not an extradition, in accordance with the bilateral treaty on the matter between the two countries, but a sending, a vague term; security czar Omar Garcia Harfuch spoke of a transfer. Gertz explained that the operation was carried out at the express request of the United States and that Mexico responded based on the National Security Law and the constitutional article that empowers the head of the government, President Claudia Sheinbaum, to preserve it.

The unexpected appeal was intended to overcome the deadlock that had been reached by several extradition requests made by Washington, which the drug lords and their lawyers managed to postpone in court through injunctions, some for over a decade. Garcia Harfuch has underlined the responsibility of the judiciary in the blockage of the extradition processes and pointed to agreements between drug traffickers and some judges who sought to favor them, as had already happened on other occasions and for many years. Sheinbaum voiced her concern about corruption in the judiciary hours after it was announced that a judge ordered the release of Rosalinda Gonzalez Valencia  the wife of the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes El Mencho  who had been sentenced for money laundering. Corruption in the judiciary in our country is aberrant and offensive, said the president.

The Extradition Treaty between the United States and Mexico, in force since 1974, establishes that the requesting country cannot impose the death penalty on a subject if the country of origin does not contemplate that punishment in its laws. However, given that the sending of the cartel capos did not occur in accordance with that norm, Washington is considering asking the courts for capital punishment for some of them, as in the case of Rafael Caro Quintero, accused of the murder of DEA agent Enrique Kiki Camarena in 1985. However, Gertz has stated that none of the bosses handed over can be executed. We have a very clear agreement in the sense that legislation like Mexicos, which does not have that punishment, must be respected in the countries where we have an agreement, he indicated. When an operation is subject to an international convention, as in this case, the conditions of that convention must be respected.

Alejandro Gertz during a press conference last Friday. Raquel Cunha (REUTERS)

Gertz has pointed out that Washington presented Mexico with a formal, written, and concrete request to carry out the operation specifically against the 29 drug lords within the framework of the Palermo Convention, the UN agreement to combat transnational organized crime that establishes guidelines on extradition (a recourse that, the official insisted, was not used). There was a well-founded request from the United States government, that was the reason why the whole procedure was triggered, he said. Gertz added that the institutional mobilization was immediate. Within hours [of receiving the request], the National Security Council was convened, the analysis was made at that meeting, the legal bases were established, to ensure they were fulfilled, and the procedure was carried out. It was a timely matter, he indicated.

Gertz was repeatedly questioned by the press about the specific legal mechanism that underpinned the operation. They didnt give it a name. They just complied with the law, the official responded. The U.S. Attorney Generals Office said that Mexico handed over the cartel leaders in accordance with Executive Order 14157 signed by Donald Trump, by which several Mexican cartels were declared terrorist organizations.

Gertz said that the legal basis for Mexico to fulfill its part is found in the National Security Law, where, he said, the parameters of necessity are established for reasons of political stability both in Mexico and in the United States. He also cited Article 89 of the Constitution, which details the obligations of the government, one of which is to preserve national security. Remember that an extradition law is not being applied. This is a national security request that the United States justified based on the criminal conduct of these people in that country, which coincides with the procedures and the knowledge we have of the evidence of their conduct, he said.

Rafael Caro Quintero in the Brooklyn federal court in New York last Friday. Jane Rosenberg (REUTERS)

The lengthy extradition process had already sparked complaints from Washington. Last year, the then-ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar, criticized the judges who had delayed the trial of the brothers Miguel and Omar Trevino Morales, alias Z-40 and Z-42, leaders of the bloodthirsty Los Zetas cartel, for more than a decade. Gertz has acknowledged that the legal resource used to prevent the extradition of criminals has created a precedent. An option was opened that was within the Mexican legal framework and that they [Washington] took advantage of, he said. The official has defended the process, stating that the solutions that are taken against organized crime benefit, first and foremost, Mexicans.

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The murder of a DEA agent in Mexico 40 years ago has become a topic of interest this week with the transfer of one of his alleged assassins, Rafael Caro Quintero, to the United States. The transfer  not an extradition, as clarified on Friday by Mexican Prosecutor General Alejandro Gertz  was part of an extraordinary operation, carried out between Wednesday and Thursday, involving 3,500 police and military personnel and ending with 29 Mexican cartel bosses on U.S. soil. It remains to be seen whether the operation will completely remove the tariff threat looming over Mexico or whether, at least, it will resut in a pause in the medium- or long-term.

The delivery of the drug lords returns the initiative to Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, at least for a while. Since Donald Trumps return to the White House on January 20, the bilateral relationship has consisted of containing the threats of the Republican magnate, the apostle of aggressive negotiations, always with the hammer in hand. The fight against fentanyl trafficking has become one of his main slogans. In this context, Trump uses the regional economy to force changes in the North American security paradigm.

Enrique Kiki Camarena, a DEA agent working undercover in Mexico, was murdered in 1985 in Jalisco, an action carried out by the now-extinct Guadalajara Cartel, which included, among others, Caro Quintero himself. The torture inflicted on Camarena, his kidnapping, and his eventual assassination, elevated his figure to a mythical status for U.S. security agencies, which have been committed for decades to combating illegal drug trafficking.

As such, it was strange to see Caro Quintero this week on a military plane heading to the U.S., a place as much loved as it is hated by drug trafficking logistics operators: the great market, but also where the threat of final imprisonment looms. Now an old man, in reality, Caro Quintero setting foot in the U.S. has changed the bilateral narrative, hooked since the murder of Camarena to a feeling of injustice. At least that has been the case north of the Rio Bravo.

The transfer of Caro Quintero and other cartel capos  most notably the leaders of Los Zetas, Omar and Miguel Angel Trevino Morales, known as Z-40 and Z-42  also buries a period of mistrust between the two nations, which began with the Cienfuegos affair. In October 2020, the U.S. justice system arrested General Salvador Cienfuegos, head of the Mexican army during the government of Enrique Pena Nieto (2012-2018), in Los Angeles on charges of drug trafficking. The arrest sparked an intense diplomatic offensive by the Mexican government, then led by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (2018-2024). The Department of Justice agreed to drop the charges and Cienfuegos returned to Mexico, where he was exonerated due to lack of evidence.

Although Mexico won that battle, Lopez Obrador insisted on reviewing the role of foreign security agencies and their interference in the countrys affairs. The president even forced a reform of the National Security Law, which limited the actions of foreign agents on Mexican soil, which provoked protest from Washington. Eventually the changes were approved, although with some watering-down. The strained relationship has hardly changed in recent years. Mexico had assumed its role as watchdog against migratory flows from Central and South America, a major concern for the White House. Calm and routine suited both sides.

But Trumps return has shaken the foundations of the relationship. Determined to impose his narrative in the media  the story that Mexico permits drug trafficking and the flow of migrants to the north  the facts mattered little. Upon his arrival in the White House, the U.S. president said that he would tax imports from Mexico by 25% if the neighboring country did not act decisively against the cartels. He never explained what criteria he would use to evaluate Mexicos performance. A week ago, for example, he said that he was not happy. He did not explain why.

That is how a dizzying week began. As of last Monday, the specter of levies had crept into the conversations. The tariff moratorium that Trump had decreed at the beginning of February was entering its final stretch. Sheinbaums government announced meetings in Washington. The security cabinet took the lead over the economic team. On Thursday, the coordinator of Mexicos national security strategy, Omar Garcia Harfuch, presented the results in this area to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington. While that was happening, the military planes that had transported the 29 cartel bosses to the U.S. were flying back home.

There have been many doubts surrounding the transfer, first and foremost the word itself: transfer. Last Friday Gertz, suddenly converted into an extraordinary spokesperson for the Sheinbaum government, deployed a knotty repertoire of responses to reporters eager for information. The prosecutor assured that Harfuchs explanations had convinced Rubio, as had the presentations of the heads of the army and navy, who also travelled to Washington. It is not clear, however, how much the thousands of arrests made in recent months in Mexico, or the thousands of kilos of drugs seized and weapons confiscated, mattered in the face of the media bombshell of the 29 cartel kingpins.

What was more important was what Gertz did not say, which was practically everything, the hallmark of a prosecutor who is fond of feints and gambits. Mexico still does not know how the handover of 29 drug lords to the U.S. was arranged, beyond the fact that it was not an extradition; a procedural modality subject to a series of rules, which in practice rules out the death penalty for those accused. Gertz explained that Mexico is handing over the capos on a matter of national security, the same reason why the United States can send them to the wall. The handover, he said, almost bored, was made at the request of the neighboring government.

The inside story of this whole affair  the how, the when, the who  remains for the moment in the shadows, a realm to which Trumps subsequent maneuvers also belong. The joke in Mexico on Friday pointed to the lack of assets for future negotiations because, now that the government has emptied its prisons, what can it offer in the face of the Republicans next tantrum? Mexico is now attempting to change the subject. On Friday, Sheinbaum presided over the state funeral for the Aztec ruler Cuauhtemoc, assassinated 500 years ago somewhere in the south of New Spain. The president recalled the importance of asking for forgiveness. The pendulum is moving away from the Rio Bravo and swinging toward the Atlantic Ocean. For once, it is a relief.

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The far right is on the rise in Europe, and it is most successful in countries that avoided taking responsibility for the crimes of National Socialism after World War II. Just look at the map of the elections on 23 February in Germany and those of 29 September, 2024, in Austria. Nationalist-populist parties are hegemonic in what was, until 1990, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) and in Austria. Both are territories that, unlike West Germany, for decades considered that the history of the Nazis did not concern them.

In the eastern German regions, Alternative for Germany (AfD) won by a landslide with 34% of the vote, far ahead of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). In the former Federal Republic of Germany (FRG), AfD made decisive gains and won millions of votes and seats, but with 18% of the vote it was far behind the CDU, the largest party. Last autumn, the Freedom Party (FPO) was the favourite in Austria with 28.8% of the vote, although a coalition of Christian Democrats, Social Democrats, and Liberals will leave it in opposition.

The reasons for the success of the far right are complex, from resentment against the elites to nationalist withdrawal, Europhobia, rejection of immigration, or fear of the social decline of the middle classes. In Austria, the phenomenon has been gaining ground since the 1990s. In Germany, it is a more recent occurrence: a platform founded in 2013 that has continued to garner support while radicalizing its discourse against immigration and becoming, in little more than a decade, the second-largest group in the Bundestag.

In both the Austrian and German election campaigns, expressions were heard that reflected this particular relationship with history. Herbert Kickl, the FPO candidate in Austria, said that he would be the Volkskanzler, or peoples chancellor, as Adolf Hitler was described before he became the Fuhrer of Nazism and Germany. At an AfD rally in the eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt, Trumpist tycoon Elon Musk said: There is too much focus on past guilt, and we need to move beyond that. A full-blown correction of the culture of memory that has prevailed in Germany.

Voting for these parties coincides with the territories that, as sociologist Rainer Lepsius theorized in the 1980s, externalized the memory of National Socialism and the Holocaust. Lepsius studied what he called the three successor states of the Greater German Reich. That is, the West-based FRG, the Soviet-controlled GDR, and neutral Austria. For the latter, which was long considered Hitlers first victim, Nazism was of secondary importance, belonging to the history of Germany and not its own, wrote Lepsius. For the communist regime in East Germany, the content and consequences of National Socialism did not belong to the history of the GDR itself, but to the history of the Federal Republic, which remained [like Nazi Germany] capitalist.

Historian Tony Judt explained in his monumental book Postwar that the Austrians simply forgot about their involvement with Hitler. In East Germany, he added, where the burden of responsibility for Nazism was placed solely on Hitlers heirs in West Germany, the new regime paid restitution not to the Jews but to the Soviet Union.

The different intensity of historical awareness helps to explain, for example, why in some countries or regions the so-called cordon sanitaire  the union of all parties to prevent the extremists from gaining power  is stronger than in others. In Austria, the far right has already participated in several federal governments and has a presence in regional executives. In Germany, although the cordon sanitaire  known as the Brandmauer, or firewall  is still in force, if it is ever broken, it is likely to happen in one of the East German regional parliaments where AfD is the first or second force. This raises the question: To what extent is the success of AfD and FPO in these territories, and the tolerance of their message, explained by the deficit of historical memory compared to West Germany?

Norbert Frei, professor emeritus at Friedrich Schiller University in Jena in the eastern state of Thuringia, says that for a historian the question is purely speculative and cannot be answered with direct sources. But he adds: In fact, the externalization of National Socialism in Austria  even though Hitler was Austrian  and in the GDR has had long-term consequences for political culture.

Frei has studied in-depth how Germans dealt with their Nazi past, with works such as 1945 and us, or The Third Reich in the German Consciousness. In an email, he recalls: Austria was long cast in the role of the victim as an occupied country in 1938. The GDR claimed to have solved the problem because of the flight of a large part of the Nazi elite to the West and because of its own anti-fascism imposed from above. However, the scandal-ridden confrontation with the Nazi past in the West led subsequent generations to deal with National Socialism much more intensively.

Frei concludes: I find it plausible, although it is certainly difficult to prove empirically, that this [in the West] led to a greater sensitivity towards the AfD. And the former GDR? It is clear that the successes of the AfD, particularly in the East, are also explained by a successful management of resentment towards the remembrance work [Aufarbeitung, in German] regarding National Socialism. He clarifies: There is a feeling that [the memory process] is part of the duties imposed by the West. And nationalism, which has been less critically reflected on in East Germany, probably plays a role in this.

The culture of memory and the taboo on nationalism are, according to this perception, an imposition on the East from the West. Another grievance that would feed a party that, like AfD, acts as an identity or regionalist party of the former GDR.

But the rise of the party in the West shows that it is now more than just an East German party. Its candidate for chancellor, Alice Weidel, was a pure product of West Germany. And in this part of Germany, in absolute numbers, the AfD has far more votes and seats than in the former East Germany, which is less populated and has fewer seats in the Bundestag.

Given recent results in Europe, East Germany and Austria are increasingly the norm. And West Germany  or, one might add, Spain, where Vox has never been the second most-voted party and is a long way from being the first  is the exception. But for how long? The border of memory  between countries that, like the FRG, made the study and responsibility for crimes committed in the name of their country a central part of their identity, and those that have shied away from this task  is rapidly dissolving.

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There is always a strong focus on women in business and female entrepreneurs, both active and aspiring, and this year's International Womens Day is no different.

It is a day to reflect and celebrate the achievements and accomplishments of leading ladies in the world of business but also to let the ladder down and let those aspiring to climb that ladder know the climb can be made less arduous with the support and advice of those who have gone before you.

It is clear from the success of organisations such as Network Mayo that the saying A rising tide lifts all boats rings true, and by coming together to share ideas, to provide support and mentorship and to inspire growth in one other, another saying rings true too: We rise by lifting others.

Lorraine Burnell is the Chief Corporate Consultant for Dynamite Lifestyle and the President of Network Mayo and has had quite the journey towards both her professional and voluntary roles.

The Belmullet native worked in Galway and the United Kingdom, where she ran a company, before moving home. She became managing director of a company in Mayo but as one of few women in her organisation, Lorraine began to look to make connections with other women succeeding in business, as she had been involved in similar organisations in the UK.

I joined Network because I was working in a very male-dominated environment at the time, a hardware retailer. I was looking to make a connection with like-minded women in business or a networking platform, she said.

International Womens Day is an anniversary of sorts for Lorraine, it was the day she first walked in the door of a Network Mayo meeting, something she feels has made a huge difference for her.

I feel like with the Network, its a network of ladies who hold the ladder for each other. Were always trying to help each other, introduce each other to each other and there is a lot of supports.

There is a lot of different aspects such as wellness and financial advice and we all support each. For me walking in the door, I was looking for a group of women I could get advice off or talk to about careers and I have got that."

The Network regularly holds events bringing together its members and offering support and expert advice. Niamh Ryan, CEO and co-founder of Ella & Jo Cosmetics, will be the guest speaker at the Together We Are Stronger event at Breaffy House Hotel tomorrow (Wednesday, March 5) at 9.30am.

Ella & Jo is an international award-winning Irish skincare company and Niamh will be confidently sharing her journey in business. It is an opportunity to gain valuable insights to take charge of your business.

It is the ethos of what groups like Network Mayo are about, says Lorraine.

I couldnt get over the level of collaboration, support, friendship from the moment I first walked in the door and I fell in love with the Network straight away.

I have made friends I know Ill have for life within the Network. That support is always there.

We have a great committee and were really strong right now and we always want to let people know we are here and always welcoming new members, she said.
A member of Mayo Co Council has extended congratulations to the Solas Centre in Eachleim, Belmullet, on winning the Mayo Meitheal of the Year Award.

Cllr Gerry Coyle told last week's meeting of Westport-Belmullet Municipal District that it was the second time in the past decade that the award had come to the Erris village.

"I ask that we have a Municipal District meeting in the Solas building in Eachleim again very soon to acknowledge the win. I wish to congratulate John Gallagher and all his staff there. It is a wonderful building and the US Ambassador during her recent visit said it was a most impressive amenity.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Sean Carey said the centre and committee did Trojan work and were well deserving of this award, adding: Its a great attraction for the area and a lot of tourists are coming to Belmullet because of it and staying around the area and seeing the benefits.
Pope Francis suffered a third and fourth respiratory crisis on Monday in the panorama of ups and downs that is marking the slow and fragile recovery of the pontiff from pneumonia after he was admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome on February 14. The medical report for Monday afternoon, issued just before 7 p.m., revealed that the 88-year-old Pope presented two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm. On February 22, he suffered the most serious crisis yet and, when he seemed to have recovered, he had a bronchospasm last Friday, which was considered isolated.

Monday afternoons communique explains that two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, with the need to remove large secretions and in the afternoon non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which the Pope had stopped receiving on Saturday, was resumed. He is not intubated, meaning that he is breathing with a mask. The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times, the Vatican stated, although it added that the pontiffs prognosis remains guarded. There was no indication of his conditions being critical, a phase that was considered as overcome last Thursday.

The signs on Monday morning were positive, after the Pope recovered from the respiratory crisis he suffered on Friday, as indicated in the medical report issued on Sunday afternoon. The bulletin indicated that today, too, the Holy Fathers clinical condition has remained stable, for the second consecutive day. The 48-hour deadline set by doctors to determine whether or not Fridays bronchospasm had aggravated the pontiffs general condition was thus satisfactorily met, because it had led to vomiting that had entered the respiratory tract and there was a risk of a new infection.

There have been no direct consequences, Vatican sources said. In Mondays communique there was no mention of whether it is necessary to wait further to see if the condition has worsened, although on this occasion the medical report does not mention vomiting.

Mondays two new complications further reinforce the sense of caution conveyed by the reports as 18 days of hospitalization have already shown that Francis health is fragile. As the medical team said at its only press conference on February 21, the Popes life is not in danger, but neither was he fully out of danger. In other words, it takes very little to become unbalanced. In fact, the most serious crisis occurred the following day. Since then, the Popes doctors have not appeared before the media again. The Vatican has not yet clarified whether at some point there will be a new meeting with journalists.

This situation of complexity and risk of renewed respiratory crisis is combined with messages of apparent normality from the Vatican. The Pope has remained fever-free in recent days, has always been conscious, and is eating normally. He gets up and moves around the apartment where he is staying, on the 10th floor of the hospital. He is also undergoing respiratory physiotherapy, which is considered another step on the slow road to recovery.

Since he was admitted he has been working almost every day and, although he rested on Saturday, on Sunday morning he received the Secretary of State of the Holy See, Pietro Parolin, and his right-hand man, Edgar Pena Parra, the Vaticans internal affairs officer. Almost daily appointments and other decisions requiring the Popes signature have been announced.

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Listening, speaking, learning, thriving

Therapy offered by the University Speech and Hearing Clinic enables communication and advances societal good.

Communication is the cornerstone of relationship building. For children, effective communication skills contribute to their social and academic development and enable them to express themselves with ease. Audiology [hearing], speech or language difficulties may inhibit effective communication and affect a childs self-esteem.

Services offered by the University Speech and Hearing Clinic (USHC) in the Wits Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology have enhanced the communication skills of speech-challenged children and ignited hope in their families.

The USHC, which serves as a student training facility and a public service site, provides hearing interventions such as hearing assessments and aural rehabilitation, as well as hearing aid fitting and management. The clinics speech services provide interventions for speech delays and disorders, language delays and disorders, fluency disorders, stuttering, hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings and more.

Dr Kim Coutts, a Lecturer in Speech Pathology and Audiology says the services of the Speech and Hearing Clinic aid in improving their clients communication abilities.

We assist people across the lifespan who have difficulties with communication. Communication is the essence of human life and the ability to communicate effectively is so important for the quality of life of so many people, says Coutts.

For Bonnie Tshabalala, improvement in her sons speech through services provided by the clinic has brought joy and tranquillity. Tshabalala reached out to the clinic in 2020 when she realised t a speech delay in her three-year-old son.

Family members and relatives used to ask us why he was not talking at his age. I got a bit offended and thought they were picking on our child. This prompted us to take him for assessments and get him therapy, says Tshabalala.

She says her attitude to her relatives and the public has since changed as she now understands her sons challenges better because the clinic empowered her with information. Her son began therapy in March 2021.

Elizabeth Mokganya, mother to a nine-year-old boy who has communication difficulties due to stuttering, says that therapy sessions have positively transformed his son.

She explains that before therapy, her sons self-esteem was very low and schoolmates would mock him.

He used to come home and tell me that his former class mates would ask him, Why do you speak like this? Today, my son is very confident, such that he is able to tell his teachers to be patient with him when he is struggling to complete a sentence in class. He is doing very well at school, she says.

Although the lockdown in 2020 halted face-to-face services at the UHSC, Mokganya says the online sessions provided the opportunity for her to learn how to assist her son, as she occasionally joins the online sessions between the therapist and her son.

Both Tshabalala and Mokganya state that aside from techniques that they have learnt to aid their childrens communication, they hail the USHC for teaching them patience.

Another parent, Saskia Cowles advises parents to seek professional help and start their children on speech therapy sooner rather than later. She is pleased with the therapy her son received from USHC.

We got a report at the end of last year from the clinic, which showed us how his speech has improved from the various areas identified as problems. We are working on his pronunciation now and it is improving. He is starting to say words better now, says Cowles.

About the USHC

This year, USHC celebrates its 85th anniversary. It is the oldest clinic of its kind in South Africa. The public service speech and audiology facility offers both face-to-face and virtual therapy sessions and is committed to advancing the public good and providing professional services to the public at a low cost. Therapy is free for senior citizens and people who cannot afford the services. In a quest to continue offering services and assisting clients with communication challenges amidst the pandemic, the clinic provides data to clients who are unable to afford it for virtual sessions.
Climate talks  Global South must seize the moment and take the lead to speed up transition

The US decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement has raised questions about whether progress can still be made on global policy to mitigate climate change. To explore these questions, Imraan Valodia spoke to Professor Sir David King, who founded the Climate Crisis Advisory Group, a collection of influential, diverse and interdisciplinary climate experts.

Youve argued for decades that climate change is the greatest challenge facing humans. How so?

This is not a matter of opinion  it is fact. The science is unequivocal: we are in the midst of a crisis that threatens the very stability of our planet.

Already we have exceeded 1.5C of warming above pre-industrial levels, and the impacts are devastating. Entire regions are experiencing extreme heat, destructive floods and rising sea levels. If emissions continue unchecked, we will face a future where major coastal cities are submerged, food production is crippled and millions of people are forced to migrate due to unliveable conditions.

We are at an inflection point. We must adopt a strategy of reducing emissions, removing greenhouse gases, repairing ecosystems and building resilience. These are the four Rs that can save us. Failure will mean missing the opportunity to restore atmospheric carbon levels to manageable levels of 350 ppm.

Some may dismiss this as unrealistic, but it is entirely achievable through this strategic approach. Otherwise we will be overwhelmed by the consequences of melting polar and mountain ice, rising sea levels and extreme weather events that threaten human civilisation.

There is an alternative pathway that can lead to a prosperous more equitable future for humanity.

Given the withdrawal of the US from the Paris Agreement, can the Global South and North still work together on climate change?

The US decision is a setback. But it cant be an excuse for inaction. If anything, it should serve as a rallying cry for the rest of the world to move faster. The Global South can seize this moment to take the lead. Countries like South Africa, Brazil, China, Kenya, Ghana and Indonesia have the opportunity to forge a new climate alliance, setting the pace for a transition that prioritises sustainability and economic justice.

The Global North exacerbated the emissions crisis, not the Global South. But now the north has a responsibility both to lead the way in reducing emissions and also to provide financial and technological support, particularly to countries most vulnerable to climate impacts. But the momentum must come from the Global South itself.

The reason I founded the Climate Crisis Advisory Group was to ensure that voices from across the world shape the climate agenda, rather than being dictated to by a handful of nations. Climate justice requires a new model of cooperation, one where solutions are built collectively and implemented at speed.

We are already seeing incredible climate changes around us, leading to the vulnerable suffering most. Investing at the necessary scale in resilience, particularly in the Global South, will improve lives immediately. It will also help repair the damaged trust between nations needed for a cohesive climate response.

We are in a moment of transformation. The choices we make now will determine whether we enter a future of instability and crisis or one of resilience, prosperity and equity. South Africa, and indeed the entire Global South, must not wait for permission to lead. The time for bold action is now.

Could South Africa emerge as a leader in climate action and renewable energy?

Absolutely, but it requires bold leadership. South Africas coal industry has played a vital role in its economy, providing jobs and energy security for generations. However, mines and power stations are ageing, inefficient and costly to maintain, and the global energy market is shifting. Without urgent reform, South Africa risks economic stagnation in a world that is moving rapidly towards inexpensive, clean energy.

Yet the opportunity for transformation is clear. South Africa has some of the best solar and wind resources in the world. It has the potential not just to meet its own energy needs but to become a leader in Africas renewable energy transition.

Kenya, for example, has already achieved more than 90% electricity production from renewable sources. South Africa can follow suit by investing in large-scale renewables and grid modernisation, creating jobs, attracting investment and securing energy independence. But this will not happen through incremental change over many decades  decisive action is needed now, and a fully integrated plan, developed and implemented.

How should South Africa be managing its way out of its dependency on coal?

The transition away from coal must be just and equitable, serving the needs of all. South Africas coal industry has been foundational to its economy, and an unmanaged phase-out would leave many workers and communities vulnerable. Governments and international partners must invest in reskilling and retraining programmes to equip workers for jobs, for example in the renewable sector. Financial support must be in place to ensure coal-dependent communities are helped into new industries.

After an initial period in the UK when Margaret Thatcher confronted striking coal miners, leading to closures and much suffering, the UK has provided an example of how coal can be phased out in a way that works for both the economy and workers. The UK transitioned away from coal while ensuring economic stability. Today by far the cheapest form of energy in the UK is from renewables.

South Africa must do the same. It must ensure that clean energy projects prioritise job creation and skills development. The worst outcome would be to remain tied to a declining industry. Delaying the transition will only make it more painful in the long run. The future of energy is inexpensive and clean, and South Africa must position itself at the forefront of this shift.

David King is the founder of Centre for Climate Repair at Cambridge and Chair of Climate Crisis Advisory Group (CCAG), University of Cambridge. Born in South Africa, his resistance to apartheid eventually forced him to leave the country, an experience that instilled in him a lifelong understanding of inequality and the need for systemic change. In London he immersed himself in scientific research, ultimately becoming professor of physical chemistry and head of chemistry at Cambridge. In 2000 he was appointed chief scientific adviser to the UK government, a position he held until 2007.

Imraan Valodia is the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Climate, Sustainability and Inequality and Director, Southern Centre for Inequality Studies, University of the Witwatersrand.

This article was originally published in The Conversation.
The email arrived at 7:06pm on a Saturday, but had been dated the day before. With it, K. Waye, an official at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), became one of the thousands of federal employees that Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) fired on February 14, part of what has become known in Washington as the Valentines Day Massacre.

Citing that the reasons for the dismissal were based on the fact that her skill, knowledge and aptitude were apparently not sufficient, it also defined her performance as inadequate. Waye had been placed into the category of probationary employees because, even though she had worked for the government for a decade, she changed jobs and agencies last August, which technically reset her seniority to zero. In theory, her new position had been a reward, a promotion that came with a raise. A public health expert who has experience with the World Health Organization, she had always wanted to work at the CDC. But in practice, that step up the ladder led to her downfall. In DOGEs crusade against bureaucracy, Musk started with the most vulnerable: the employees who, on paper, had been in their posts for less than two years and who do not have the same rights as permanent staff.

Waye has an eight-year-old daughter and is divorced. She had just bought a house in a quiet Maryland neighborhood located an hour away from Washington D.C., not far from where shed grown up as the offspring of a Senegalese diplomat. It was there, in a room full of moving boxes that had yet to be opened, she told her story. Now shes not sure how she will pay for the new house. The worst part is that she suffers from a chronic autoimmune disease that, if not correctly controlled, is dangerous. A common cold can be a matter of life and death, she says. She frequently visits the doctor. Unemployed and without health insurance, shes not sure how she will afford that expense, either. I never thought something like this could happen to me, she says.

Protest against the policies of Donald Trump and Elon Musk in front of the U.S. Capitol building on February 17. Nathan Howard (REUTERS)

Donald Trump successfully campaigned to become president on the promise of dismantling the Deep State, taking back control over independent federal agencies and putting them in the service of his conservative revolution. To do this, he recruited the richest man in the world, asking him to make cuts equal to one trillion dollars. Musk and his employees, a handful of young men with iconoclastic streaks, have already managed to freeze billions of dollars in federal grants and programs and are carrying out their assault on public employees agency by agency.

First, they offered an incentive package for voluntary resignations to more than 75,000 government workers, according to the Office of Personnel Management. Then, they proceeded to fire employees on probationary status. Numbers have not been released as to the total number of workers who have been let go, but in March 2024, 220,000 federal employees had been in their positions for less than a year. On Saturday, DOGE took things a step further, sending public service workers who still had their jobs an email in which they were asked to describe what theyd done at work last week. If they did not comply within 48 hours, they would be subject to termination.

All told, there are more than three million public employees in the United States and, though youd never know it from the Republican Partys fiery anti-Washington rhetoric, more than 80% of them are based in other locations around the country, from Huntsville, Alabama, home of the NASA headquarters, to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where the Department of Veteran Affairs operates a hospital. The latter is where, prior to February 13, Andrew Lennox worked.

Thirty-five-year-old Lennox served in the Marines for a decade, stationed, among other sites, in Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq. When he came home, he held a string of jobs until he got the one he just lost, where he felt like a family and again, happy to serve his country. He was also fired by email. The letter said that based on your performance, it was not in the public interest that he continue at in his position. I never heard that when I was in Afghanistan, defending the American values of truth and justice. I feel betrayed, Lennox said in a phone interview.

Former Department of Veteran Affairs employee Andrew Lennox in Syria, where he served as a Marine, in a photo he supplied.

His dismissal, like Wayes, is proof that DOGEs decisions arent made on an individualized basis, according to Alden Group, a Washington D.C.-based law firm specializing in public employment. Then there are the inconsistencies in its language regarding unsatisfactory performance. Lennox, who had only been in his position for two months, had yet to undergo an official review. During her EL PAIS interview, Waye shared her job evaluation, dated January 17, on which her superiors shared that during the review period she had obtained better results than expected. I got an A, she said, pointing at her score of 4.33 out of 5, as Ive received every time since I began to work for the government.

Neither the White House nor DOGE responded to an email in which EL PAIS asked about the apparent contradiction in citing poor performance as a reason for firing employees who are held in high regard by their superiors. Nor did they respond to questions about whether the dismissals are decided on a case-by-case basis, or what criteria was used in drawing up the lists of dismissals.

Elon Musk listens to President Donald Trump during a February 11 Oval Office press conference. Kevin Lamarque (REUTERS)

Throughout the implementation of Musks arbitrary and opaque plan, theres been a feeling that anyone could be next, as agencies continue to fall like dominos. Months of Trumps constant attacks on civil servants are taking their toll on federal employees.

Fear of reprisals

Over the last few weeks, EL PAIS has spoken with 15 of those who still have their jobs, who asked to remain anonymous to avoid possible reprisals. Many see some logic in the idea of streamlining government, but are opposed to its inhumane measures, the chaos and lack of judgment, as well as the distorted public image that has been attached to those who sacrifice in their service to their country. They say that they are demoralized and are fearful and anxious that a dreaded email could arrive in their inbox at any moment. One official said that they had lost several pounds from nerves. Some have been looking for jobs in the private sector for weeks, and one individual who was successful in that search described the feeling of starting a new professional chapter as being like getting on the last plane out of Vietnam. Another, who retired just in time, said they felt survivors guilt.

They also shared their concern that hasty cuts could affect the United States global leadership in science, prevention of the next pandemic, the management of national parks  which have lost more than a thousand staff members just before the start of their peak season  and even national security. The dismissal of 300 employees who guarded nuclear weapons set off alarms, and they were quickly given their jobs back. The only problem was that, since theyd been locked out of their email addresses, contacting them regarding this reinstatement proved to be a problem.

Doug Wilson is a state worker who was suspended by DOGE as a first step towards the likely elimination of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CPFB), which was created in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis. He warned during a recent demonstration in front of the Washington D.C. headquarters of Space X, one of Musks companies, that for the last three weeks nobody has been doing the job for which he had been hired: Monitoring abuses committed by banks and other financial institutions, in order to prevent another economic crash from taking place.

Protest against the dismantling of USAID on February 3 in front of the agencys Washington D.C. headquarters. WILL OLIVER (EFE)

In some areas, like that of humanitarian aid, the damage is already done. As part of one of DOGEs first actions, the 2,200 employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) were ordered to stop what they were doing and cancel all programs, a move of incalculable global impact that affects both vital programs in conflict areas and the financing of subsidy-dependent Latin America media. All agents working in the field were also ordered to return home immediately.

Among other the consequences of this move, some 400 workers at the Bureau for Global Health who were not on staff wound up in the street, with no right to severance. One of them, Maria A. Carrasco, says in a telephone interview that when it came to USAID  an agency that Musk has called a ball of worms full of radical liberals  there was no waste, lamenting that the current administration is making decisions that are serious, without consulting experts. As an example, she mentions the $10 million cut from a voluntary circumcision program in Mozambique, one of the initiatives that DOGE cited as proof of alleged corruption in the use of U.S. taxpayer money. What they dont say, because they dont know or because they dont want to know, is that science has demonstrated since the beginning of the 2000s that circumcision reduces the risk of [female-to-male] HIV transmission by 60%, Carrasco says.

As does a newly created website of somewhat sinister design, the DOGE account on X, the social network owned by Musk, offers context-free examples to demonstrate the advances its made in its mission to cut spending by a powerful network of independent federal entities, many of which were created during Roosevelts New Deal. It commonly refers to them as the alphabet soup agencies due to their hodgepodge of acronyms. In a joint interview with Trump on Fox News, Musk  who enjoys unprecedented access to confidential information from the government with which his private companies do lucrative business  warned on Tuesday that, if the bureaucracy is fighting the will of the people and preventing the president from implementing what the people want, then the United States is a bureaucracy and not a democracy.

In another joint appearance at the Oval Office made the week before, Musk warned that there could be errors during this cost-cutting process, as demonstrated when a reporter asked about an alleged $100 million item approved during Joe Bidens administration that Trumps team marked for elimination, saying it was for buying condoms for Gaza. The Tesla owner acknowledged this had been incorrect, although Trump repeated the anecdote on several occasions.

In addition to the mistakes and lies (like the one about retirement benefits being paid out to millions of dead people) that are rife in DOGE statements, there are the agencys exaggerations. Musk and his people say theyve saved the federal government $65 billion by cutting staff and canceling contracts, but a review carried out by various U.S. publications found the figure was based on incorrect assumptions and obsolete and erroneous data. One of the most embarrassing examples was the cancellation of a contract worth, according to DOGE, $8 billion  its actual value was $8 million.

Despite these gaffes, Musk still has his fans (in the United States and abroad) among people who are suspicious of those in public office by default. In the world of MAGA, the entrepreneur is idolized. He received a rock stars reception when he took the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference, where Argentinian President Javier Milei presented him with a chainsaw (the chainsaw of bureaucracy), shortly before the nationalist-populist ideologue Steve Bannon delivered what appeared to be a Nazi salute. Attendees of the Trumpist convention spoke of Musk being an extremely intelligent guy who is sacrificing himself for his country instead of living the cushy life of the worlds richest man. In his speech, the billionaire said his goal is to get good things done, but also have a good time doing it. Inequality expert Chuck Collins, an outspoken voice against the South Africa-born tycoon, compares this particular iteration of Musks shock doctrine to the magnates strategy upon purchasing Twitter in 2022, when Musk fired 75% of the workforce as an act of purification.

For the moment, doubts as to whether these Silicon Valley-type experiments are useful when it comes to running the United States appear to be taking their toll on Trumps popularity. He achieved an unequivocal victory at the ballot box after a campaign he spent promising to take on an out-of-control federal government, and began his second administration breaking his own record with an approval rating of just over 50%. But one month later, according to an Ipsos poll, that number has fallen to 45%. That poll also asked its respondents about Musk. Only 34% were satisfied with the role he is playing in the administration, the same percentage that fears he is cutting essential government programs.

A plaque affixed to a windowpane in the house of K. Waye in Damascus, Maryland on February 21. Gabriela Passos

Musk has replaced Trump as the preferred target of criticism by a largely absent Democratic Party still crushed by Novembers defeat, as well as that of civil rights organizations, which have organized dozens of protests around the country. The largest took place on Presidents Day, in front of the U.S. Capitol, calling to stop the coup led by a person for whom no one voted, as well as Trumps monarchical inclinations, demanding Congress do something to stop the takeover.

DOGE, a useful experiment

Holman Jenkins, a columnist at The Wall Street Journal, writes that the hysteria being displayed by reactionary media is proof that what Musk is doing is a useful experiment. Another columnist for the conservative paper, William McGurn, celebrates the attack on federal agencies that were, he says, created to undermine presidential power. Underlying McGurns argument is a shadowy legal concept, the unitary executive theory, born in the Reagan era and now being resurrected, that proposes a broad reading of presidential powers.

Trump has signed an executive order that places independent agencies under the supervision of the White House. Publications like The New York Times and The Atlantic warned of a budding constitutional crisis that endangers the separation of powers and foreshadows the prospect of the president failing to abide by judicial decisions in the dozens of lawsuits that have been filed throughout the country to halt his agenda.

We will be at least as persistent as they are. As civil servants, it is our nature to be resilient, says Alissa Tafti, local president of the American Federation of Government Employees. Hers is the largest union of public employees in the country, and it appears as a plaintiff in several of the suits that have been filed against DOGE actions, including its dismissal of all employees on probationary status and efforts to reinstate Schedule F, which removes job protections for civil servants. The result of this hyperactive resistance in the courts has been an avalanche of hard-to-follow cases and legal decisions that often contradict each other. One day, public employees are celebrating the courts ban on Musk from accessing Treasury Department files. The next, a Washington judge is refusing to prevent DOGE from utilizing data from all federal agencies in its purge.

Former CDC worker Waye has written to two law firms, asking to join any class action suits that may arise. She doesnt have much hope of getting her job back, but says shes got nothing to lose by trying. The public health worker is clinging to one of the two grounds available to her for appeal (the other, based on marital status, doesnt seem applicable to the situation). They say you can appeal if you were fired for political reasons. It seems obvious to me that there is a political motive behind this plan. Trump campaigned at the expense of civil servants.

Waye has already started looking for a new job, but her search wont be easy: the Washington area is full of highly qualified, newly unemployed candidates. Also, I have to adapt my experience in government to the private sector, she says, and Im afraid that corporate America speaks a very different language.

It seems that the same can be said for the country of which her president dreams. Trump made that clear when he once again expressed his praise (in capital letters) for Musks GREAT JOB in a post on his Truth Social network, in which the president said hed like the tycoon to be MORE AGGRESSIVE. Its the only way, concluded the Republican, that America will be  you probably know how this sentence ends  GREAT AGAIN.

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TOKYO - A growing number of Japanese hospitals are introducing programs that promote a more understanding and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ people, helping to give peace of mind and improved health outcomes for a community that is often ostracized, even by the medical establishment.

The psychological hurdle of disclosing one's sexual orientation and gender identity, a concept known by the acronym SOGI, is significant for many in the country's LGBTQ+ community, and some are reluctant to see a doctor due to insensitive remarks they have received from health care professionals.

Seibo Hospital in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward has prepared a leaflet for first-time visitors, explaining that it is "committed to creating an environment free of discrimination and prejudice" on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity.

At its general information desk, the hospital displays the rainbow flag, a symbol of pride and activism for the LGBTQ+ community, endorses the same-sex partnership system introduced in some areas of Japan and provides a dedicated consultation service to address concerns.

The same-sex partnership system, which was first established in Tokyo's Shibuya and Setagaya wards in 2015 before spreading to many municipalities, is not legally recognized at the national level.

According to the hospital's chief nurse Tomomi Yamamoto, Seibo adopted a SOGI manual in 2022 following the hospitalization of a transgender woman.

Respecting the will of patients regarding explanations and consent for surgeries and treatments as its basic tenet, the manual also addresses concerns their same-sex partners might have.

As situations differ, Seibo emphasizes conversing with patients on an individual basis. In response to requests from same-sex couples, the manual has been revised to remove expressions such as "daddy" and "mommy" or other expressions that might be considered exclusionary.

"Our goal is to provide medical care that is tailored to each individual patient" rather than treating them as exceptions, Yamamoto said.

A 2019 survey of 10,000 sexual minorities conducted by Yasuharu Hidaka, a professor at Takarazuka University, found that 8.3 percent of respondents had not visited a medical facility for fear of discrimination due to sexual orientation or other reasons.

This was particularly true among transgender men and women in Japan, with ratios of 38.8 percent and 51.2 percent, respectively.

Among reasons given in the survey for declining to seek hospital treatment, some said they had been "flatly turned down" for medical care because of their sexual orientation or gender identity or had doctors who used discriminatory expressions when speaking with them.

Hidaka said there are many people who suffer from mental health issues, and the connection with medical facilities is crucial. "Hospitals need to change to eliminate people's reluctance to see doctors," he said.

Last year, Hidaka published an LGBTQ+ book that aims to show hospitals how to conceptualize the problems facing sexual minorities and help them come up with ways to improve medical care.

Collaboration among hospitals has also started to address the issue.

Kochi Medical School Hospital in Kochi Prefecture, western Japan, became the first public university-affiliated hospital to establish a support team for sexual minorities in 2023, taking a page from programs promoted by Juntendo University Hospital in Tokyo.

The team comprises some 10 doctors and nurses who have treated and provided psychological care to HIV-positive patients. They saw a need to support gay patients who were troubled by the prospect of receiving hospital treatments.

Activities by the team include seminars for sexual minorities and distribution of rainbow badges to participants.

Learning by example from groundbreaking hospitals like Juntendo, the team leader Seisho Takeuchi, an associate professor at Kochi Medical School, said as a national university hospital, Kochi exerts "a great deal of influence" on other medical institutions in the prefecture.

"We will actively provide information on our programs and team up with other hospitals to expand their support" for sexual minorities, he promised.

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Tourists line up to visit a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 26, 2025. A museum for cultural relics unearthed at different phases during the construction of Xi'an Xianyang International Airport, the largest one of its kind in northwest China, opened to the public at the airport on Wednesday. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

XI'AN, Feb. 27 (Xinhua)  A museum displaying cultural relics unearthed during different phases of the construction of Xi'an Xianyang International Airport has opened to the public at the airport Wednesday.

As the largest air transportation hub in northwest China, the airport is located in Xi'an, capital of Shaanxi Province.

The museum covers a total area of 6,400 square meters and exhibits cultural relics spanning several historical periods of ancient China, said Hou Chao, manager of the cultural operations department at China West Airport Group (Xi'an) Commercial Development Company.

"In the future, the museum will improve its exhibition design and integrate advanced technologies, incorporating AR displays and virtual reality," Hou added.

From June 2020 to October 2022, during the third-phase expansion of the airport, 6,848 ancient cultural relics sites were discovered.

These included 4,093 ancient tombs and 2,755 sites such as pottery kilns, ash pits, enclosures and roads, and over 22,000 artifacts were unearthed.

Xi'an is a renowned tourist destination in China that boasts a rich legacy. Home to the famous Terracotta Warriors and numerous other historic sites like the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda and the Bell Tower, Xi'an was founded over 3,100 years ago and served as the capital of 13 dynasties in China.

This photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows a hairpin from Tang Dynasty (618-907) at a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

This photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows pottery figurines shaped 12 Chinese zodiac signs from Tang Dynasty (618-907) at a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

Tourists visit a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

Tourists visit a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

Tourists visit a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

This photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows a colored pottery work in the image of a camel from Northern Zhou Dynasty (557-581) at a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

This photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows a colored pottery work in the image of a camel from Northern Zhou Dynasty (557-581) at a relics museum inside the Xi'an Xianyang International Airport in Xi'an, northwest China's Shaanxi Province. [Xinhua/Shao Rui]

(Source: Xinhua)

Editor: Lei Yang
TOKYO - Japan's Prince Hisahito, the nephew of Emperor Naruhito and second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, expressed Monday his desire to approach his public duties with care and awareness as he fulfills his role as an adult member of the imperial family.

Speaking at his first press conference, held at the Akasaka Estate residence in Tokyo to commemorate his coming-of-age, the 18-year-old said the symbolic role of the emperor "is a presence that always thinks of the people and stays close to them," reflecting the views of his grandfather, former Emperor Akihito, and uncle.

"It is important (for the imperial family) to pay attention to people's lives and the state of society," he added.

Under Japan's postwar Constitution, the emperor's role is defined as being "the symbol of the state and the unity of the people of Japan."

The prince reached adulthood last September, becoming the first male member of Japan's imperial family to do so in around 39 years since his father, Crown Prince Fumihito, in November 1985.

Prince Hisahito was also the first imperial family member to reach adulthood under Japan's revised Civil Code that lowered the age of adulthood to 18 from 20 in April 2022.

Currently a third-year student at Tokyo's Senior High School at Otsuka, University of Tsukuba, the prince will study biology at the university's School of Life and Environmental Sciences from April.

"I have long been fascinated by insects, particularly dragonflies, and I hope to study them more broadly. I want to fully commit to my studies while also engaging in extracurricular activities," he said.

The prince described his ability to unwaveringly pursue his interests as both a strength and weakness, while also admitting to a tendency to "become nervous in various settings."

He noted climate change as a global issue in which he is interested, saying, "I am concerned that it causes many natural disasters and affects people's lives."

The prince acknowledged studying abroad would be an opportunity for new experiences, one he would consider after consulting with his parents, while also saying he "had not yet given much thought to the ideal timing or partner" regarding marriage.

A coming-of-age ceremony traditionally held within the imperial family will take place on his 19th birthday on Sept. 6. The event was fixed on that date so as not to affect his high school studies, according to the agency.

The young prince is the only heir of his generation in the Japanese imperial family, as the Imperial House Law states that only males with male lineal descent from emperors can ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne. The other heirs are his 59-year-old father and the emperor's uncle Prince Hitachi, 89.

The size of the imperial family has been shrinking, with females marrying out of the family, including the prince's eldest sister, former Princess Mako, 33, who married her university sweetheart in 2021.

The current total number of members stands at 16, 11 of which are women, including Princess Kako, the prince's 30-year-old sister, and Princess Aiko, 23, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Amid concerns of a stable continuation of the imperial family, revising the succession rule has long been debated in Japan, but a government panel tasked with studying the issue shelved in 2021 a decision on whether to make women or matrilineal members eligible to ascend the throne.

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A medical worker walks by a billboard for the opening ceremony at the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin opens in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. The Perennial General Hospital Tianjin, China's first wholly foreign-owned, tertiary general hospital, opened to public service here on Wednesday. This 500-bed hospital was built and owned by Singapore's Perennial Holdings Private Limited, with a total investment of about 1 billion yuan (about 138 million U.S. dollars), capable of comprehensive services including individualized medication. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

TIANJIN, Feb. 26 (Xinhua)  China's first wholly foreign-owned tertiary general hospital opened Wednesday in Tianjin Municipality, marking the latest development following China's expanded opening-up policy in the healthcare sector.

The 500-bed hospital, named Perennial General Hospital Tianjin, represents an investment of about 1 billion yuan (roughly 139.4 million U.S. dollars) by Singapore's Perennial Holdings Private Limited.

The hospital offers comprehensive medical services to meet the diagnosis and treatment needs of both common and complex diseases. It also has an international department that provides customized healthcare services  including health management and chronic disease management.

In September 2024, China issued notice of the pilot program for expanding opening up in the healthcare sector, with north China's Tianjin designated as one of the nine provinces and municipalities to launch wholly foreign-funded hospital trials.

Pua Seck Guan, executive chairman and chief executive officer of Perennial Holdings, said China has demonstrated a strong and significant determination to open up in the medical and health sector, which sends a positive signal to the international investment community, providing new market opportunities and further promoting the diversified development of China's medical market.

The hospital aims to introduce access to top international medical resources for Chinese patients, while also creating new pathways for foreign patients seeking medical treatment in China, Pua added.

The new hospital can more flexibly introduce advanced international medical technologies and management models, facilitating the recruitment of high-end talent and the acquisition of advanced diagnostic and treatment equipment, said Tan Bee Lan, CEO of Perennial Healthcare.

Since 2000, China has allowed the establishment of foreign-funded joint medical institutions. After more than two decades of development, there are currently over 60 foreign-funded joint medical institutions in the country.

Perennial General Hospital Tianjin received the first business license for a wholly foreign-owned tertiary general hospital issued by Tianjin authorities in December last year.

Tianjin and Singapore have a long history of cooperation. The local government in Tianjin has standardized approval processes and high work efficiency, leading to a favorable business environment, Pua said.

Perennial Holdings will also increase its investment in other Chinese cities including Kunming, Xi'an and Guangzhou, according to Pua, who hoped that foreign investment in healthcare can further stimulate industry innovation and promote the advancement of China's healthcare system towards greater efficiency and inclusiveness.

This photo taken on Feb. 26, 2025 shows an interior view of the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality. The Perennial General Hospital Tianjin, China's first wholly foreign-owned, tertiary general hospital, opened to public service here on Wednesday. This 500-bed hospital was built and owned by Singapore's Perennial Holdings Private Limited, with a total investment of about 1 billion yuan (about 138 million U.S. dollars), capable of comprehensive services including individualized medication. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

A patient consults a doctor at the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

A patient inquires a nurse at the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

Medical workers are pictured at the outpatient pharmacy of the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

A medical worker checks a medical examination device at the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

Nurses tidy up a bed at the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

Medical workers are on duty at a nurse station of the Perennial General Hospital Tianjin in Xiqing District of north China's Tianjin Municipality, Feb. 26, 2025. [Xinhua/Li Ran]

(Source: Xinhua)

Editor: Lei Yang
FILE - Robert E. Crimo III., watches the jury selection process during the first day of his trial at the Lake County Courthouse, Waukegan, Ill., Monday, Feb. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, Pool, File)
Trucks carrying humanitarian aid line up on the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing with the Gaza Strip on March 2.
Pope Francis leads the vespers at St Peter's basilica in The Vatican, on February 1. Pope Francis suffered a sudden episode of respiratory difficulty and was put on a breathing machine on February 28, according to the latest medical update from the Vatican.
TOKYO - Seven & i Holdings Co. is making final arrangements for President Ryuichi Isaka to step down, with outside director Stephen Dacus likely to succeed him as the first foreign chief of the Japanese retail giant, a source close to the matter said Monday, days after its founding family's proposed management buyout failed.

Dacus, 64, who became an outside director of Seven & i in 2022, has expertise in retail sectors in Japan and abroad. He has served as CEO of Japanese supermarket chain Seiyu Co. and senior vice president of Fast Retailing Co., the operator of the Uniqlo clothing chain.

The operator of the Seven-Eleven convenience store chain has been facing a takeover proposal from Canada's Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. since last year, with the offer exceeding 7 trillion yen ($47 billion).

To fend off the Canadian takeover bid, Seven & i's founding family had turned to major Japanese trading house Itochu Corp. to join other companies in a management buyout.

But Itochu said Thursday it had terminated its consideration of the founders' proposal, a day after Charoen Pokphand Group, the operator of 7-Eleven convenience stores in Thailand, said it would not accept a request to take part in the scheme.

On Monday, Itochu Chairman Masahiro Okafuji, speaking to reporters about his company's decision not to invest in the management buyout, cited the failure of Seven & i to secure loans from banks and the Thai conglomerate's decision not to take part.

The buyout scheme was "somewhat unfeasible," Okafuji said.

The replacement of the Seven & i leadership is expected to underscore the Japanese retailer's focus on its overseas convenience store business, which it sees as having room for growth.

Isaka, 67, had led the company's convenience store business as the head of subsidiary Seven-Eleven Japan Co. prior to becoming Seven & i president in 2016.

After selling its ailing department store unit Sogo & Seibu Co. to a U.S. fund in 2023, Seven & i is preparing to spin off its struggling Ito-Yokado supermarket operations to pour more of its financial resources into the convenience store business.

The convenience store industry has been sluggish both inside and outside Japan, but Seven & i sees more growth potential in overseas markets.

Seven & i operates more than 80,000 convenience stores around the world.

The Canadian company, which operates brands including Couche-Tard and Circle K, has about 17,000 stores in over 30 countries and regions, including Canada and the United States.

Related coverage:

Seven & i founders withdraw buyout, give life to Canadian takeover

Japan trader Itochu not to join Seven & i management buyout plan
This is the third in a series of articles on the recent Berlin International Film Festival. Part 1 was posted February 20 and Part 2 February 27.

At this years Berlin International Film Festival, Huo Meng received the silver bear for his feature Living the Land (Sheng xi zhi di). Set in 1991 in an impoverished village in Henan province, in central China, the film is a moving and vivid portrayal of rural life and the social implications of the countrys rapid urbanization. The film is scheduled for release in China later this year.

Living the Land

Living the Land focuses on 10-year old Chuang Li (Wang Shang) and his family. It opens with the exhumation of one of Chuangs grandfathers, who was executed while fighting the Japanese invasion during World War II. He is exhumed to be laid to rest with the remains of his recently deceased widow, Chuangs grandmother.

Chuangs parents, who work as migrant workers in Shenzhen in southern China, then still a relatively small city, come home for the funeral but have to depart soon afterward. We see Chuangs mother for the last time only a few minutes into the film, as she leaves the village, sitting on a bicycle with her husband to return to Shenzhen, crying.

Map of China with Henan province and Shenzhen highlighted

Chuang is largely raised by his grandparents and his aunt, Xiuying (Zhang Chuwen). He is also close to his great-grandmother and his two cousins. One of these cousins, 19-year old Jihua, is mentally disabled. The latter is often subject to the ridicule of other children and beatings from his father, but Chuang, their great-grandmother (Zhang Yanrong) and Jihuas mother love him dearly and do their best to protect him.

There is no electricity in the village and only one family even has an ox with which to plow the land. Lifes rhythm is determined by the harvest, by traditional holidays like the Autumn Festival, weddings, births and funerals. The school closes down when the children have to join their parents working in the fields for the harvest. The farmers pay their taxes and the school fees for their children with grain. In one memorable scene, we see the schools principal reject the grain Chuangs cousin broughthis family is the poorest in the village and their harvest did not yield sufficient grain for them to pay both taxes and the school fees.

We learn, in passing, that villagers have to sell their blood to be able to pay their debts and billsa common phenomenon in rural China in the 1990s, and one of the main causes of the countrys AIDS epidemic.

Chuangs great grandparents and grandparents cannot read, but encourage him to study. They are deeply empathetic and hard-working people, painfully aware of the dual oppression they suffer because of their status as farmers and their lack of education.

In one of the most moving scenes, Chuang talks to his great grandmother about her death.

He asks, Are you afraid of being cremated?

Of course, who wouldnt be? she replies.

You dont have to be afraid, its just cells dying that then get renewed, every year.

What happens with the dead cells? she asks.

They get dispersed, some will get buried, others will be carried away by the wind to far-away places.

She responds:Thats good, Ive never been anywhere in my entire life. After a short pause, she adds, Its good that you can read.

Though the period covered in Living the Land is relatively briefroughly six monthswe see how a combination of monumental societal changes and the natural cycle of life and death in the village bring Chuangs childhood to an early and rapid end.

By the end of the film, one family can use a small tractor, which can do the work previously done by multiple families. In one scene, the farmers ponder the fact that a single large-scale American agricultural machine could do the work of their entire village. With modern machinery gradually finding its way into the village, more and more farmers leave for the south, for Shenzhen. Foreign companies like Apple invested heavily in the Special Economic Zone in Shenzhen at the time, which was set up as a key component of the restoration of capitalist relations by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), with extremely low wages and brutal conditions of exploitation for workers like Chuangs parents.

Chuangs close family soon falls apart. One of his aunts is pregnant with her familys third child. The family tries to hide the violation of the one-child policy, which was still in effect at the time, by sending Chuangs other aunt to undergo the government pregnancy examination. But the ruse fails when Chuangs uncle sends his wife to the hospital to give birth, fearing she might otherwise die. The villages party secretary informs them that they have to pay a fine of 3,000 yuan (around $413 today), an exorbitant sum for the family, and suggests that Chuangs other aunt, Xiuying, marry the son of a wealthier family in a neighboring village who has taken an interest in her.

Xiuying agrees, though she is in love with another man and loathes her bridegroom. We do not see anyone trying to pressure her; it is their poverty that seemingly leaves her no choice. Shortly after the wedding, Chuangs mentally disabled cousin Jihua tragically dies; he is blown up by an explosive device that was placed in a wheat field to find oil.

Chuangs great grandmother, who doted on Jihua, passes away shortly thereafter. The film closes with Chuang, his grandparents, his uncle and aunt, carrying her ashes back to the village to bury them. Their primitive tractor gets stuck in the mud and they have to push hard to keep it moving. In one lengthy shot, the camera moves away from the family, zooming out to show the beautiful but bleak and icy landscape in which they plow their land and live their lives.

In an interview during the Berlinale, Huo Meng explained that the motivation for making the film was in part autobiographicalborn in 1984, he grew up in a village similar to Chuangs. Chuangs village stands for thousands of similar villages. The characters experience of growing up in extreme poverty, with migrant worker parents, torn between age-old traditions of rural life and a rapid process of urbanization, are those of an entire generation of Chinese.

Huo Meng at the Berlinale (berlanle.de)

Huo Mengs realism is deeply empathetic but never sentimental. He shows the at times severe cruelty and brutality of interpersonal relations in the countryside, yet he never humiliates or condemns his protagonists. Rather, his primary concentration remains revealing how conditions of desperate poverty lead to often painful and desperate decisions and behavior. This harsh reality is punctuated by extremely funny scenes and relations of great warmth. The primary driver of the decisions of the generation of Chuangs parents, grandparents and great grandparents is their striving to ensure a better life and future for their children. Hard though the conditions were, they ensured much higher living standards and better education for Chuangsand Huo Mengsgeneration. More than anything else, the film feels like a tribute to the immense sacrifices and hard labor of these generations.

The film conveys the beauty of the landscape and the extremely hard life in Chinese villages shortly after the restoration of capitalism. People like Chuangs parents who moved to Shenzhen, Shanghai or other fast growing industrial centers were part of almost 14 percent of Chinas population who moved from the village to the city between 1980 and 1991. At the time, the urbanization boom was still at a relatively early stage. Today, 67 percent of the population are living in cities (compared to under 19 percent in 1980), virtually all of them with advanced modern-day infrastructure. Shenzhen is the most extreme example of this process: Its population exploded from just 30,000 in 1980 to 17.5 million today. Even the countryside, Huo Meng noted in the interview, has been modernized to an extent that the filmmakers had a hard time finding a place where they could shoot.

Despite these vast changes and a significant increase in living standards, the film depicts a reality that does not only lie in the recent past. For millions of Chinese workers and farmers and their children, it remains close to their everyday experiences. As of 2024, there are an estimated 300 million migrant workers who still form the most oppressed layer of Chinas gigantic but still growing working class.

Living the Land is an important artistic achievement. For moviegoers in China, it will depict a reality that for many of them is all too familiar. In other countries, the film can contribute to a greater understanding of an immensely complex society and vast working class that is now being vilified by the imperialist powers in their crazed drive for war.

To be continued
Trucks line up at the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip after Israel blocked the entry of aid trucks into Gaza, Sunday, March 2, 2025. [AP Photo/Mohamed Arafat]

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sunday that Israel has blocked all food shipments into Gaza, aiming to starve the population into submission and ethnically cleanse the enclave.

We have decided to block all entry of goods and supplies into Gaza, Netanyahu declared before a cabinet meeting. No trucks entered Gaza this morning, nor will they at this stage, said Omer Dostri, a spokesperson for the prime minister.

The White House endorsed Israels policy of mass starvation. Israel has negotiated in good faith since the beginning of [the Trump] administration to ensure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas terrorists, said National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes. He added, We will support their decision on next steps, given Hamas has indicated it is no longer interested in a negotiated ceasefire.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich praised the policy, stating, The decision to completely stop the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza until Hamas is destroyed or completely surrenders and all our hostages are freed is an important step in the right direction. He called on Israel to open the gates of hell as quickly and violently as possible against the merciless enemy until total victory.

The announcement came after the lapse of phase one of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The Netanyahu government has reneged on its commitment to begin phase two and is instead demanding the release of more hostages before continuing phase one.

In reality, Israels refusal to uphold the ceasefire agreement is a calculated provocation aimed at creating the conditions for mass starvation of the people of Gaza in order to forcibly displace them and seize their land.

Last month, Trump declared that the United States supported the ethnic cleansing of Gaza, a policy previously proposed by sections of the Israeli government.

In announcing the blockade, Netanyahus office warned, If Hamas continues its refusal, there will be further consequences.

The Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom reported that the government is preparing to enforce a total blockade of food and water into Gaza. Israels Channel 14 reported that Energy Minister Eli Cohen is planning to propose shutting off Gazas electricity supply at the next Israeli cabinet meeting.

Israels blockade of food aid to Gaza is a war crime and a crime against humanity. Oxfam condemned the move in a statement, calling it a reckless act of collective punishment, explicitly prohibited under international humanitarian law.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher condemned the move in a post on Twitter, declaring, Israels decision to halt aid into Gaza is alarming. International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid.

In a statement, MSF (Doctors Without Borders) spokesperson Caroline Seguin said, Israel is once again blocking an entire population from receiving aid, using it as a bargaining chip. This is unacceptable, outrageous, and will have devastating consequences.

Kenneth Roth, former head of Human Rights Watch, said that Israel has an absolute duty under the Geneva Conventions to allow food to enter Gaza. Israels latest threat to cut off all aid is a resumption of the war-crime starvation strategy that led to war crimes charges against Netanyahu at the International Criminal Court.

The entire population of Gaza is suffering from food insecurity due to Israels deliberate blockade of aid. In December, the UN estimated that over 19,000 children had been hospitalized for acute malnutrition in just four months. Last month, health officials in Gaza reported that six babies froze to death in a two-week period due to a widespread lack of fuel to counter freezing temperatures.

Meanwhile, the United States is escalating its military support for Israel. On Friday, the US State Department announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had invoked emergency authorities to send an additional $4 billion in weapons to Israel. The State Department said the US would continue to use all available tools to fulfill Americas longstanding commitment to Israels security, including means to counter security threats.

The package includes a variety of potential weapons, with reports indicating that over 35,000 2,000-pound bombs could be sent. Each of these bombs is capable of leveling an entire city block. The Biden administration sent Israel at least 14,000 of these bombs, which Israel usedalongside other US-provided weaponsto destroy most of the structures in Gaza.

Responding to the announcement, Netanyahu praised Trump, saying, Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House He has shown it by sending us all the munitions that were being held up. This way, he is giving Israel the tools we need to finish the job against Irans terror axis.

According to Gazas health ministry, 46,565 Palestinians have been killed and 109,660 injured since the start of the Gaza genocide on October 7, 2023. Gazas government media office puts the death toll at over 61,000, including the thousands of Palestinians missing and believed to be buried under the rubble. The real death toll, including those who have starved to death and succumbed to disease, is far higher.
Members of the Macquarie University Rank-and-File Committee have called for an urgent staff meeting and action to fight moves to sack Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah, a Macquarie University academic, because of her high-profile opposition to the ongoing US-backed Israeli genocide and ethnic cleansing in Palestine.

Randa Abdel-Fattah [Photo: Macquarie University]

Abdel-Fattahs employment has been directly threatened by last weeks decision of the Australian Research Council (ARC), acting at the behest of the Albanese government, to freeze her ARC Future Fellowship grant for a study of the hidden history of Arab/Muslim social movements in Australia.

Last Thursday, the ARC suspended Abdel-Fattahs fellowship, just a month after federal Education Minister Jason Clare ordered the ARC to investigate her grant as a matter of priority. This is supposedly based on cooked-up allegations that she bent ARC rules by holding an online workshop as part of the grant, instead of a formal academic conference.

In reality, Abdel-Fattah has been targeted because she, like a number of other academics and journalists, has been falsely branded and demonised as antisemitic for denouncing the atrocities being committed by Israel in the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank. These mass killings and aid cutoffs are intensifying, backed by the Trump administration with fresh arms supplies as part of a plan to remove the Palestinian population forcibly.

The ARC move is a step toward terminating her employment because her job, as a fixed-term appointment, depends on the continuation of the research grant. It follows an earlier demand by Labor MP Josh Burns, the chair of a witch-hunting parliamentary committee, to know why Macquarie University had not already sacked her.

On Friday at a Macquarie University management town hall staff forum, one of the first questions to vice-chancellor S. Bruce Dowton was about the implications for procedural fairness and academic freedom of an ARC grant being suspended.

In response, Dowton confirmed that the ARC had asked the university to suspend all activity on that grant and investigate a range of matters but refused to provide details.

Dowton claimed that the ARCs questions were not about academic freedom but about the responsible use of the discharge of public funds for a grant awarded by the ARC to Macquarie University.

Such denials of the underlying political agenda fly in the face of the concerted campaign against Abdel-Fattah by Zionist groups, the corporate media and both Labor and Liberal-National Coalition representatives over the past year.

Macquarie University Rank-and-File Committee (RFC) member Carolyn Kennett posted a comment in the town hall meeting chat that: We urgently need to call a rally to pass a motion in defence of Randa Abdel-Fattah like the one in this article, referring to the resolution unanimously adopted by a lunchtime meeting called by the rank-and-file committee on February 20.

That resolution opposed the victimisation and witch hunt of anti-genocide activist Randa Abdel-Fattah, and called for a campaign throughout the universities and the working class against it.

It stated: The attack on Abdel-Fattah is not confined to one academic. It is aimed at silencing any opposition to the US-Israeli mass killings, the Labor governments support for the genocide and the Trump administrations criminal plan to ethnically cleanse Palestine.

Despite determined opposition by National Tertiary Education Union (NTEU) branch officials, NTEU branch meetings at the University of Sydney and Western Sydney University passed similar resolutions last week, as earlier had teachers and support staff at Footscray High School in Melbourne.

Several other participants in the town hall meeting called for Abdel-Fattahs defence or suggested that the NTEU branch committee should at least call a members meeting to discuss the issue.

In a NTEU zoom gathering to observe the town hall meeting, Kennett called on the union to call an urgent meeting to defend Abdel-Fattah. We need to be openly defending her on campus, she wrote.

Kennett stated: We should take action here. This is one of our colleagues and she has been under sustained attack. We have written statements in her defence. The Macquarie Rank-and-File Committee called a meeting last week and 70 people voted unanimously for a resolution in support of her.

I think university staff should come together to pass motions of support for her. What has happened to her is driven politically by the Zionists. She is not an antisemite.

To date, the NTEU has not called any meeting to defend Abdel-Fattah, nor organised any public campaign against the wider Zionist-led witch hunt against university staff members speaking out against the genocidal assault on the Palestinians.

Instead, the NTEU issued a mealy-mouthed media statement last week saying that recent commentary about the review of Abdel-Fattahs research grant has raised serious concerns.

The statement said the union was seeking assurances from ARC Chair Professor Peter Shergold that this process will not be influenced by external forces, including media corporations. It said the NTEU wanted to ensure the ARCs engagement with Macquarie over Dr Abdel-Fattah is subject to the highest levels of integrity, independence and fairness.

An editorial on Saturday in the Murdoch medias Australian, which has played a central and aggressive role in the witch hunt against Abdel-Fattah, put paid to any pretence of such assurances. It urged vice-chancellor Dowton to remove her, regardless of the outcome of the ARC grant investigation.

While this issue is about a legal agreement, Dr Abdel-Fattahs expressed views indicate how anti-Semitismoften masquerading as opposition to Israelis embedded in Australias universities, the editorial declared.

The newspaper said Dowton should follow the lead of the University of Sydney, which sacked academic Tim Anderson after he compared Israels crimes to those committed by the Nazi regime in Germany.

This confirms that the persecution of Abdel-Fattah is a test case. Many other critics of Israel have been tarred as anti-Jewish bigots and persecuted by governments, the corporate media and Zionist organisations. Those known publicly include journalists Mary Kostakidis, Antoinette Lattouf and Peter Lalor; Sarah Schwartz, the executive officer of the Jewish Council of Australia; University of Sydney academics John Keane and Nick Riemer; as well as the same universitys sociology professor Sujatha Fernandes.

As shown by the wall-to-wall media and government persecution, and now criminal prosecution, of two Bankstown Hospital workers in Sydney, who were goaded by an Israeli provocateur into making stupid comments, the so-called antisemitism crusade is designed to intimidate and silence working-class people across the board.

The need for a full-scale campaign by staff and students at Macquarie University and throughout the entire tertiary education sector in defence of Abdel-Fattah and other witch hunt victims was underscored last week when Universities Australia (UA), the universities peak employer body, agreed to enforce a new reactionary definition of antisemitism across all university campuses.

Like the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition that some university managements had already imposed, this version conflates antisemitism with anti-Zionism and essentially bans criticism of Israel, which was created in 1948 by the removal of thousands of Palestinians, accompanied by military violence and terrorism that has continued ever since.

There is widespread opposition to this outright political censorship, drafted in consultation with Jillian Segal, the Albanese Labor governments Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, which can be used to threaten and dismiss university staff.

The definition states: Criticism of Israel can be antisemitic when it is grounded in harmful tropes, stereotypes or assumptions and when it calls for the elimination of the State of Israel or all Jews or when it holds Jewish individuals or communities responsible for Israels actions. The definition also asserts that for most Jewish people Zionism is a core part of their Jewish identity.

Significantly, among the many voices denouncing the UAs adoption of this definition is the Jewish Council of Australia, representing more than 1,000 academics, lawyers, writers and teachers. It issued a media statement condemning the dangerous and politicised definition of antisemitism which threatens academic freedom, will have a chilling effect on legitimate criticism of Israel, and risks institutionalising anti-Palestinian racism.

The council stated: The definitions inclusion of calls for the elimination of the State of Israel would mean, for instance, that calls for a single binational democratic state, where Palestinians and Israelis have equal rights, could be labelled antisemitic.

The statement added: Zionism is a political ideology of Jewish nationalism, not an intrinsic part of Jewish identity. There is a long history of Jewish opposition to Zionism, from the beginning of its emergence in the late-19th century, to the present day. Many, if not the majority, of people who hold Zionist views today are not Jewish.

It concluded: [D]efinitions of racial or religious identity should not include assertions about the political persuasion of group members as an intrinsic part of the groups identity. Such assertions risk fomenting harmful stereotypes that all Jewish people think in a certain way.

The defence of basic democratic rights, including free speech and academic freedom, is more important than ever. As the Macquarie University RFC said in its January 21 statement launching the defence campaign said, the suppression of dissent is not confined to the issue of Palestine.

This chilling atmosphere is calculated to stifle opposition to the whole agenda of militarism, job cuts and attacks on working-class conditions now spearheaded globally by the fascistic Trump White House.

To discuss moving resolutions in defence of Abdel-Fattah, send statements of support or join or build a rank-and-file committee, email the Committee for Public Education (CFPE), the rank-and-file educators network, at cfpe.aus@gmail.com.
Last Fridays huge protests in Greece to demand justice for the 57 victims of the 2023 Tempi rail crash were supported internationally by demonstrations on every inhabited continent.

At least 112 were held, including in Berlin, Germany; Paris, France; Madrid and Barcelona in Spain; London, Edinburgh and Manchester in the UK; Rio de Janeiro in Brazil; New York and Boston in the US; and Sydney, Australia. An online map was viewed more than 1.9 million times.

World Socialist Web Site reporters spoke to participants in the global protests in Berlin, London and Manchester.

In Berlin, hundreds protested at the Greek embassy despite pouring rain. Many brought homemade placards. One indicted Greeces main political parties for the disaster: Syriza, PASOK, ND [New Democracy]Tempi has a history.

Hundreds protested despite pouring rain in Berlin, Germany. In reference to Greece's political parties, which are all implicated in the deaths, one placard read, "Syriza, PASOK, ND - Tempi has a history," February 28, 2025

Christos said the mass response over Tempi expressed social tensions that had been suppressed and building up for years. The real cause of it [the protests] is that the people in Greece have had difficulties over the last 10, 15 years, and theyve had enough of governments and its time to react. He concluded In the whole of Europe and the whole world, the situation is falling apart. The few are becoming richer and the rest are becoming poorer... We dont have democracy anymore. We have capitalism.

George said, We want justice. We hope people learn about the government and all their actions that were totally unforgettable. We are really happy there are these big demonstrations for people to see.

George

Asked what he thought the reasons were for the crash, he said, The government for sure. They havent put in all the systems for the security. Also, the train was carrying some fuels that were illegal.

Tasos commented, They knew everything, that something is wrong. They knew everything. We want justice. They tried to cover-up everything, but they cannot because we know the truth. And we are here to show them what is the truth. They dont care about you. 57 people died and they dont care.

Tasos and Athina

Athina told our reporters, Its a beautiful country with bad governments. And you dont know who to choose because the one is as bad as the other.

She continued, They [Greeks] are protesting all over the world. And I hope something is going to change this time.

A banner on the protest in Berlin showed the Greek parliament behind bars and read: Build private prisons and go inside

Christina, another Berlin protester, stressed that the eruption of anger is not just about Tempi, but the whole economic crisis in Greece. She immigrated to Germany some years ago because she couldnt find work as a teacher: But for eight years we have seen no change. Every time I come to Greece, I see friends and family who are disappointed, worried and angry, trying to make ends meet every month. We lack infrastructure in Greece. The hospitals are in a tragic state, as are the schools and all that.

Christina

In Germany the situation is getting worse, as well, she added. Addressing German workers and youth, she urged them not to wait but to resist rising prices and the deterioration of the healthcare system. Her demand: All the funds for the people, because we are the power.

Eleni brought a picture to the Berlin demonstration she had painted herself, inspired by Edvard Munchs famous painting The Scream. It shows the train crash and the dead young people, demanding Justice for the victims.

Eleni

In London, around 3,000 protested outside the embassy, completely filling the street.

Around 3,000 protesters outside the Greek Embassy in London, UK

Elena attended because Were Greeks and we have felt the austerity and the crisis in our skins in the past 15 years now. Spending has been cut for anything thats important for the everyday life of the people, starting with pensions, salaries. Everythings getting more expensive Theyre not giving any money for public hospitals that were model institutions.

This is all in the name of paying crisis debt and saving the banking system. All this, we feel, is the cherry on the pie. This terrible train accident was the last drop of this terrible glass of injustice: 57 people died and 50 of them were between 17 and 23 years of age. Finally, people started waking up and asking whats going on here

Elena (right)

The government is responsible and is covering up for the rich people of Greece. The wagons of the opposite-coming commercial train contained some [flammable] gas that shouldnt have been inside that wagon

We need to declare new elections. But I dont know who we can vote for; not PASOK or Syriza [Coalition of the Radical Left, who privatised the state railway in 2017]. We need to kick them out. They need to know that the people know, feel, understand their lies. It is high time that people wake up.

Evangelios attended to protest the coverup about the accident that happened two years ago. The two trains collided but there was a huge explosion and no one can explain why this happened. Its not due to natural causesthey collided but the explosion happened from some kind of material that the cargo train was carrying. But the governments trying to cover up and say that nothing illegal or nothing flammable was on that cargo train.

But thats not the truth because a lot of specialists they found evidence in the debris of some kind of flammable materials. A lot of people say that something illegal was there and a big businessman was behind that.

Evangelios

The two trains collided because they had no telematic system that would know where the train is and auto-brake the trains. Theyre trying to accuse the drivers of the trains but we know that a lot of accidents happen due to human error and the systems should be there in order to avoid human error causes in general. They spent the money somewhere and they didnt invest in the train and the railway, so this was the outcome.

Asked who he held responsible, Evangelios replied, Its all the governments from the last 20 years! The last three governments, they have responsibility. Were talking about like 15 years, almost 20 years and we had another government before that and they didnt invest too.

This is the Greek railway that they [Syriza government] sold [in 2017] for 50 million euros, its nothing, they sold it for free. But their excuse was Were under a financial crisis and under International Monetary Fund supervision and we have no money. And now people are killed because of this underfunding, so whats the excuse? Nothing.

Despina said, There is a big injustice in this case, and what they [the New Democracy government] tried to do is hide all the evidence. We are here for us; we are here for our kids. We left Greece because of the [austerity] crisis. We are here for a better life.

Asked who she felt was responsible for the Tempi deaths, Despina said, Its the European Union. Its the austerity in Greece. The trains were privatised and they were not public anymore.

Despina with a placard reading "Their Profits Above Our Lives"

Speaking about previous PASOK, ND and Syriza governments, she said, I think that these three governments are responsible, but I dont think that the responsibility is equal among them. Syriza was only there for a few years during the crisis but I think they have responsibilities, because the people supported them but didnt accept these austerity measures.

Another protester, also named Despina, said, There is an issue with the railway system in Greece in general. The privatisation of it is a key problem. We also know about the UK when it was privatised. It ended up with terrible problems.

Despina with a placard reading "I Have No Oxygen"

In Greece there is a deliberate effort to not build and support a good, modern, safe railway system because we have a lot of investors in the roads. There are big construction companies which take the big public works, the roads as well, and they profit a lot from the tolls.

Sky attended the protest with Petra. Sky said, People are really disappointed in the Greek government because its their fault this incident happened. Because if they had taken the right precautions, the trains would have worked in the right way, so this incident would never have happened

Sky

But then the mother of the young girl who lost her life there became the voice of hope and the voice of revolution and really inspired Greeks in Greece and worldwide. She said, No, Im gonna fight for my daughter. And then obviously other people, other victims, and other parents of victims as well became united.

I think its like a revolutionary movement the way it inspired people. Greeks have had enough of the government and we demand an answer to this injustice.

Petra responded, I think there is a huge wave of neoliberalism that has covered everything globally, Im not just talking about Greece. Nowadays, we are going through a very crucial moment. What is happening in Greece, I think that same phenomenon you can see pretty much everywhere in Europe. Look at the governments, the elections, the far-right thats rising up.

Since 2009, weve been facing a huge financial crisis. In reality, this crisis never finished People are extremely tired of that; theyre really pissed off.

Petra concluded that with Tempi, It was like the cherry on top; people said, Enough, we cant take anymore. This is the major thing that triggered so many people. And I said myself, We need to change things.

Thomas said he attended after I saw what was happening in Greece, with so many people protesting for the same reason.

Thomas

I think it needs some real systematic changeWe need real change, not just parties asking for our votes and then being in power for three or even six years, and then just bring on a new one. Not just switching between the two political parties weve had in Greece for the last 40 years or so.

Outside the Greek consulate in Manchester where hundreds attended, hospitality worker Katerina said, I have come here today for the people who died in the Tempi train crash.

Katerina at the Manchester protest with a placard and slogans including: "The blood cannot be covered up with lies! and "We will carry justice on our shoulders"

Speaking about the government cover-up she said, A lot of information came to the public after a year and a half, we were unaware I think if the train had not been carrying illegal fuel all those people could have been alive.

She added, The government is hiding the truth and we do not support that. Our prime minister should be impeached and should be punished and put in jail along with his parliament and everyone in there involved. They are trying to hide the evidence of why those people died, and for what reason. It was for no reason other than for the rich to get richer.

In Edinburgh hundreds attended a rally in the city centre.

The protest in Edinburgh

The homemade placards brought included the slogan: Justice for the death at Tempi and Pylos. Pylos is a reference to the terrible deaths of more than 600 refugees who perished when their boat sank off the Greek coast on June 14, 2023. Another placard read, Justice will not be given by the murderers. The people will give justice.

Homemade placards in Greek at Tempi rally in Edinburgh. They read "Justice for the death at Tempi and Pylos" and "Justice will not be given by the murderers"
A small plane takes off past the control tower at Troutdale Airport in Troutdale, Oregon. [AP Photo/Don Ryan]

Trumps Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy announced an air traffic control hiring supercharge Thursday, set to begin immediately. The announcement came after Duffy toured the FAA training academy in Oklahoma City and spoke with trainees about the importance of safety in the National Airspace System (NAS).

The hiring wave coincides with the Trump administrations mass layoffs of federal workers across many federal agencies. Although none of the chronically short-staffed air traffic controllers have yet been fired, the cuts have already hit FAA staff that support their safety-critical functions.

Approximately 400 workers were fired starting on Friday. There is no clear picture yet of who was let go, since the layoffs have been done outside of the normal procedure, largely ignoring the FAA management structure which normally conducts hiring and firing, while the workers receive their terminations by email.

The terminations are being carried out by the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, the worlds richest man. DOGE has almost no knowledge or experience with the agencies they are cutting, but that makes little difference to their mission. DOGE, with the blessing of Trump and headed by Musk, is waging a war on federal workers. If an agency like the FAA is imploded and lives are lost as a result, the ruling class would eagerly privatize that agencys functions.

The Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS) union reports 132 terminations of workers still in their probationary period and thus still contractually vulnerable to terminations. PASS, which represents FAA infrastructure and safety workers, reports that many of the fired workers were aviation safety assistants, maintenance mechanics and nautical information specialists.

Some of the fired workers were part of the FAAs Air Traffic Organization en route charting group, which maintains and updates Enroute Navigation Charts used in the NAS and relied upon daily by regional en route controllers across the country.

Eighteen air traffic control facilities lost maintenance mechanics, employees who work on electronic issues and other building repairs. Workers who didnt lose their jobs will also have their work interrupted, as radar technicians and other critical jobs could now be responsible for the additional duties once covered by their coworkers.

These are all the types of jobs that are tasked with assisting aircraft safety inspectors, repairing air traffic control facilities, and updating flight charts. Some of the workers would be in charge of updating Washington D.C. airspace maps in the wake of Januarys midair crash, for example.

The en route charting group only has a handful of workers in the country who are trained in their jobs, which require specialized knowledge of FAA regulations, aviation safety, graphics and map design. It is a detail-oriented and demanding job that directly affects aviation safety in the United States.

We have hundreds of changes every day across the country that need to be made, one terminated worker told WTOP about the navigational charts they worked on. The maps are updated daily so the pilots and controllers will have the most up-to-date information about navigation and safety.

Say, you have to remove an airport thats no longer in operation. You might have to add airways to a busy airport that has their summer rush coming up. These are crucial and critical to what the air traffic controllers do for their routes and without maps they could not operate, the same employee said.

FAA administrator Sean Duffy claimed over the weekend that the eliminated positions were not critical safety jobs. Safety has not been compromised is an oft-used FAA public relations phrase. It has been heard so often after safety incidents that it has become somewhat of a common joke in control rooms across the country.

In reality, the government compromises safety in some bureaucratic and bone-headed manner fueled by the drive for private profits and hatred of public services. Such cuts are made in the interests of the ruling class which has a stranglehold on government institutions.

We believe all of these employees are critical not only to the frontline safety workers, but to the entire aviation ecosystem, said Dave Spero, national president of PASS, which represents more than 11,000 FAA employees.

All of these people are part of the safety net, said Spero. The more of them that are not there, the more difficult it becomes to do the actual safety oversight.

Former FAA certified technician Philip Mann said that whether someones position is deemed critical to safety can be determined by a superficial reason, such as whether the worker is authorized to perform a certified inspection of equipment. Although some of those who were fired were not able to perform the inspections themselves, they supported that work.

Its a stretch, but that is usually where they can draw a line to say, If you can certify stuff, then you have a safety-critical job. And if you dont certify stuff, you dont have a safety-critical job, Mann said. But the loss of that support staff is going to have long-term safety implicationsjust work that simply cant be done, he said.

For airline safety inspectors, the aviation safety assistants who were fired are like a paralegal to a lawyer, Spero said. They do the paperwork so the certified FAA inspector can focus on the airplane. There were 26 assistants cut, and each one typically supported 10 safety inspectors at a time. The paperwork will now likely fall to the inspectors themselves, increasing the workload and the time it takes to certify aircraft.

Theyre not going to be able to do as much oversight of those industries as they were doing before, Spero said.

The FAA has been chronically short-staffed for decades, with federal officials raising concerns about the overtaxed and increasingly unsafe air traffic system.

Spero said a radar power outage at Chicago OHare International Airport last July caused a ground stop for airplanes there and at five surrounding airports served by the same Chicago TRACON facility. This was because air traffic controllers were no longer receiving accurate locations on airplanes. The situation took some time to resolve, largely because there was no technician on duty with the skills to fix the problem.

The FAA employs about 45,000 workers, of which approximately 14,000 are air traffic controllers. According to the FAA, it is currently short about 3,500 air traffic controllers, a difficult number to shore up without a decades-long effort. Short staffing has been an ongoing problem since before PATCO controllers went on strike over conditions and pay in 1981. When Reagan fired all 11,000 striking controllers, he created a generational exodus of controllers who would retire at the same time, and the FAA has been unwilling to replace their attrition with an adequate number of workers ever since.

The Trump administration earlier this year offered an ill-conceived buyout for veteran controllers, looking to cull their numbers as was being done to the other federal agencies. Later, Trump declared the offers invalid, likely deeming it a catastrophe for another day.

As short-staffed as air traffic controllers are, there are about three air traffic controllers for every technician, Mann said.

Americans confidence in air travel and federal agencies being capable of maintaining air safety has slipped in the aftermath of several air accidents and near-misses in recent months. A survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that only 64 percent of US adults say air travel is very safe or somewhat safe, down from 71 percent in 2024. About 20 percent now think air transportation is very or somewhat unsafe, up from 12 percent last year.

Trust in federal agencies ability to ensure safe air travel has dropped also. Only just over half of US adults have a great deal or a moderate amount of confidence in these agencies ability to keep them safe in the air, down from about 60 percent in 2024.

In the past few weeks, FAA workers have been receiving emails from DOGE demanding they give a bullet-point list of five things they did for their jobs that week. Workers are being told to justify their jobs to DOGE or be terminated.

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) union has predictably limited their response to this attack on their members to politically neutral advice to workers on what is safe to say in reply to this demand by DOGE. NATCA, the successor to PATCO after the latter was destroyed by Reagan, has a history rife with such political cowardice.

Neither NATCA nor PASS have acted in any significant way to protect the jobs of the workers they supposedly represent. Despite having the word on their lips with every communication to workers, there is no solidarity to be found in the unions.

Famously claiming workers are unable to go on strike, the unions use the Railway Labor Act that governs their ability to strike as cover for protecting the union bureaucracys cushy positions and relationships with Capitol Hill and the White House. Instead of standing together and demanding their fired coworkers be reinstated and attacks on workers cease immediately, the unions only offer shoulder-side advice to workers. The unions remain publicly quiet about these attacks on workers and their safety ramifications to the flying public who would lose even more confidence in the ability of the airlines and federal agencies to keep them safe.

The unions class orientation is not to the working class, their membership, but to the ruling class represented by bourgeois politicians in Washington D.C. and the airlines. This is why they remain frozen with inaction during a time of open political attacks on workers they are supposed to represent. Under the unions protection, workers will continue to be sacrificed to DOGE and other attacks in order to protect the union bureaucracy and its interests.

Workers need to realize that their own interests are not aligned with those of their unions. To wage this struggle and protect their jobs as well as the safety of the flying public, workers need to form their own organizations. Rank-and-file committees controlled democratically and directly by workers need to be formed in order to break with the duplicitous unions, share information and strategy, and wage the struggle in the only way that it can be won: with solidarity and action.
In the latest example of Zionisms resort to the big lie technique pioneered by Hitler, the far-right government of indicted war criminal Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have claimed that Palestinian fighters brutally killed two small Israeli children, whose bodies were recently returned to Israel, with their bare hands.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a press conference in the Kirya military base in Tel Aviv, Israel, October 28, 2023. [AP Photo/Abir Sultan]

Their aim is to portray the Palestinians in general and Hamas in particular as monsters whose savagery fully justifies Israels war of extermination, while also covering for the Israeli governments own criminal neglect of the hostages.

From the start, Netanyahu and his far-right coalition allies showed nil interest in the hostages, other than to make use of them for propaganda purposes, with the Bibas family, and father Yarden, becoming the focus of a huge campaign to vilify Hamas and secure their release, featuring orange balloons to symbolize the redheaded boys.

The 4-year-old Ariel and 9-month-old Kfir were taken hostage with their mother Shiri on October 7 by the Mujahideen Brigades, a lesser-known Palestinian faction. The Brigades commander said, Upon her capture, we placed Shiris children with her out of compassion, provided them with a safe and comfortable shelter, and treated them humanely as our Islamic faith commands.

Backing up the Palestinian commanders statement is video footage of the Bibas abduction, first broadcast two days after the kidnapping by US broadcaster NBCwith audio removed. It appears to show the abductors leader telling his men to take care of the mother and children and make sure they were not harmed and telling the family to calm down and Dont worry, we are people with humanity.

The childrens dead bodies were handed over to the Israeli authorities on February 20. Shiris body was also returned, after an initial mix upamid the turmoil of the mass destruction of Gazathat saw the return of an unidentified Palestinian woman instead.

This prompted the IDF to declare, This is a violation of utmost severity by the Hamas terrorist organization, which is obligated under the agreement to return four deceased hostages. Netanyahu bellowed that Hamas would pay a full price for the cruel and malicious violation of the deal. He used this as an excuse to delay the release of more than six hundred Palestinian hostages detained without charge or trial in Israel.

The childrens father, Yarden, who had also been captured and held separately, was released alive on February 1. He had earlier issued an emotional plea from captivity in Gaza for Netanyahu to secure the release of the bodies of his family, saying, Bibi [Netanyahus nickname], you destroyed my family. You killed my wife and my children, everything in my life I am begging you, please bring my wife and my children home.

This tragedy could easily have been avoided. But the Netanyahu government rejected offers from Hamas in October 2023 to release all civilian (but not military) hostages: the first to stop an Israeli assault on Gaza and the second to secure an end to the bombing. Israel continued its bombardment of Gaza.

Shiri and the children were expected to be included in a deal agreed 22 November 2023 that would release 150 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails in exchange for 50 Israeli women and children hostages. However, they were killed during Israeli airstrikes in the days after the agreement. When Hamas offered to release the childrens father Yarden along with the three bodies. Israel refused, insisting this was propaganda and that the living female hostages be released before the dead.

This stand makes clear that Israel knew the three were dead. But as late as last month, the Israeli military said it was gravely concerned about them. It was not until February 21 that IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari conceded in a television interview that the Israeli military had intelligence that the two Bibas children were already dead no later than November 2023.

Nonetheless, the government continued its campaign of lies and disinformation, to the extent of releasing a video claimed to be of the family in Khan Younis, and calling for their release.

For fully 14 months, the Netanyahu government maintained the fiction that the mother and two children were still alive. When their bodies were returned, IDF spokesperson Daniel Hagari dismissed Hamass statement that they had been killed in Israeli airstrikes as lies. He brazenly lied that they were brutally murdered by terrorists in captivity in November 2023.

Hagari said they were killed in cold blood with bare hands. He added, Afterwards, they [the terrorists] committed horrific acts to cover up these atrocities, involving mutilating their corpses to simulate death during an Israeli bombardment. He called on the world to condemn the barbaric act of terror committed against the youngest Israeli hostages. Hagari claimed this was based on both forensic evidence and intelligence but provided not a single scrap of evidence to support this. Israeli officials later said that the childrens mother Shiri had been similarly brutally murdered by her captors in November 2023.

The next day, Dr Chen Kugel, head of the Israeli Institute for Forensic Medicine, issued a short video that purported to back Hagaris claim. But instead of presenting supporting evidence, he merely claimed, There is no evidence of harm due to bombing, without saying what they did die of.

Netanyahu followed with a speech to soldiers at an officer graduation ceremony. He declared, They [Hamas] murdered Shiri and her children in cold blood they choked the young children with their bare hands, and if they only could, they would murder us all with the same cruelty.

Netanyahus claims were widely regurgitated and amplified uncritically by the domestic and international media to whip up a foul atmosphere, with the Israeli government using this barefaced lie to whip up another anti-Palestinian atrocity campaign.

Its allies in Washington backed Netanyahus lies to the hilt, with US President Donald Trump saying February 21 that he would be fine if Netanyahu decided to resume military hostilities in Gaza. Netanyahu would like to go in, and hes just so angry, and he should be. If hes not angry, then thered be something wrong with him, frankly. He is very angry; hes a very angry man at what happened, especially what happened yesterday with these kids. Its so barbaric. You wouldnt think that would happen in the modern age, but it happened.

The international Zionist press excoriated the Palestinians cruelty and called for the alleged perpetrators of the brutal murders to be eliminated. In London, Jewish leaders condemned as shameful London Mayor Sadik Khans failure to light up London landmarks in honour of the Bibas family, as in Rio de Janeiro, New York, Berlin and Paris, following Israels call to light up landmarks around the world in orange, in their memory.

This filthy campaign elicited a furious response from the Bibas family, despite their apparent acceptance of the narrative of murder.

Ofri Bibas, the childrens aunt, said There is no forgiveness for abandoning them on October 7, and no forgiveness for abandoning them in captivity. In an accusation directed at Netanyahu, she added, We did not receive an apology from you in this painful moment. Revealing details about the familys cause of death was abuse for its own sake of a family that has gone through 16 months of hell and still has the worst ahead. So if I could say one thing to everyone on behalf of the Bibas family, just shut up.

The family sent a cease-and-desist letter, demanding Netanyahu and other government ministers and bodies refrain from publishing information about the deceased before they received the official forensic report.

Their lawyers stressed that releasing details on the deaths should only be done by the family, calling on the media to stop adding details to the fact that Shiri and the kids were murdered by their captors and requested that no representatives of the government attend the funeral held on February 26 and attended by thousands of mourners. They warned against using the children as an excuse to restart the war amid uncertainty over moving to the next phase of the deal, due to start soon.

The corporate and state media has glossed over all of this, just as they have never retracted the lies and deceit that has surrounded Israels war propaganda, including Israeli claims that they and their US allies had no intelligence about the October 7 attack; the use of the Hannibal Directive by the IDF that killed around 360 of the 1,140 Israeli victims of the October 7 attack to prevent the capture of hostages; the horrific and fabricated stories of the mass and systematic rape and sexual abuse of Israeli women; the lurid and mendacious claims about the slaughter, beheading, and cooking in an oven of babies; and Netanyahus refusal to negotiate a hostage deal in good faith, turning down a hostage/ceasefire deal last summer that was identical to the one agreed in January.

Instead, the mainstream media continues to repeat the lies long after they have been exposed as complete fabrications.
Protesters gather at Yellowstone National Park in opposition to cuts to the National Park Service. Signs call for impeaching Trump, disbanding DOGE and rehiring park rangers. [Photo: toquop]

On Saturday, thousands gathered at 145 national parks across the United States to protest the Trump administrations mass firing of at least 1,000 workers at the National Park Service (NPS) last month.

Protests were held at high profile locations, including Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Canyon and the Gateway Arch. In Yosemite, park staff hung an upside-down American flag off of El Capitan, while protesters led by fired workers from the area rallied outside the visitors center in defiance of the attacks on federal workers.

In Montana last week, a rally for public lands packed the state capitol with people carrying signs decrying the illegal dismissals and disregard for natural resources. At an earlier protest, a worker from the United States Forest Service (USFS) held a sign reading, They laid off my whole crew. His co-workers sign declared, Immigrants didnt steal my job. The president did.

Those fired from NPS were part of the Valentines Day Massacre of federal workers, which included the dismissal of at least 5,600 probationary workers. Each was a member of the agencies which oversee the 640 million acres of federal lands in the United States.

Those cut included firefighters, park rangers, trail workers, wildlife biologists, botanists, skilled tradespeople and many others who manage public and private lands in the public interest. These cuts came as agencies were already reeling from the federal hiring freeze, which effectively eliminated many seasonal workers who form the bulk of the workforce at these agencies. These devastating reductions will lead to more disasters, such as the Los Angeles wildfires, some of which started on federal land.

The protests erupted both in recognition of this danger and in solidarity with the workers who lost their jobs. Many workers have also lost their housing as a result, which was part of their compensation for doing critical environmental work in remote parts of the country.

In the aftermath of the cuts, chaos was the rule of the day, with one Forest Service worker losing his job while on a fire assignment in Louisiana across the country from his home in the Pacific Northwest. This while the Trump administration absurdly claims that it did not remove any firefighters.

Clearly unprepared for the degree of popular opposition, the Trump administration has re-allowed the parks service to hire seasonal workers after freezing all federal hiring. This may be in part to appease small business owners, who depend on the tourism dollars of the national parks, but it certainly does nothing for the thousands of public lands employees laid off from permanent positions.

Public lands workers in Montana protesting their layoffs by the Trump administration. [Photo: Jimmy Kilburn]

For those who remain, the situation is chaotic at best. Rangers are reporting trying to do the work of their fired colleagues while also managing the complicated federal hiring process and dealing with the uncertainty of their own job security. It is hard to predict exactly what this coming season will look like for workers, but it is doubtful that parks will be able to hire up to their previous levels and maintain even basic safety and sanitation standards for visitors.

Along with physical protests, fired workers are posting their stories online, garnering millions of views across social media platforms. These posts share the challenges of losing jobs that workers spent their entire careers building towards and which they often moved across the country to rural areas to pursue.

Facebook post by Ranger Brian

Included were sharp criticisms of the anti-democratic firings and what many see as a Trumps program to further open up public lands to corporate profit.

In one widely circulated post, Brian Gibbs, a fired Effigy Mounds National Monument education park ranger in Iowa, includes a list of his job responsibilities and duties. They included: I am the protector of 2500-year-old American burial and ceremonial grounds. I am the defender of your public lands and waters. ... I am the lesson that showed your children that we live in a world of giftsnot commodities, that gratitude and reciprocity are the door to true abundance, not power, money or fear. He continued, I am tired from weeks of being bullied and censored by billionaires.

Jamie Tommins, who had to leave a job with the USFS before the layoffs because he contracted Long COVID, provided powerful insights to his fellow workers just now losing their jobs. Writing on his personal website, he called on them to remember that we are not only fighting for our jobs. We are fighting for a dream  for a truly public system of public lands, managed by and for the people, both for us and the generations to come.

Such principled democratic sentiments, or even the most basic efforts to defend workers jobs, find no expression in the union apparatus. Despite the illegal character of the mass firings, the leadership of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and other public sector unions have opposed calls for collective strike action and are telling members to rely on the courts.

The Democrats, for their part, are maintaining the lie that calls or letter-writing campaigns to congressmen, senators and even local and county officials can stop the hemorrhaging. Typical was the letter last week penned by Oregon Democrats to Trump acolytes Brooke Rollins and Doug Burgum, Secretary of Agriculture and Secretary of the Interior, respectively, which urged both to reconsider the slash-and-burn policies.

At present, a total of six federal employees of the tens of thousands fired, have received even temporary stays on their removal through legal challenges. Even this temporary relief though is deeply vulnerable to political pressure from Trump. Both the agency pursuing the complaint, the US Office of Special Counsel (OSC) and the agency reviewing the complaint and issuing the stay, the Merit System Protection Board (MSPB), are only nominally independent federal bureaucracies housed within the executive branch.

Historically, both these agencies are favorites targets of presidential meddling because of their oversight role. There is little doubt that some combination of Elon Musk and his illegal firings by DOGE or Trump and his governance by executive order will quickly crush whatever component of this bureaucratic wall cracks first.

Already, Trumps attempted direct firing of the head of the OSC, Hampton Dellinger, has reached the Supreme Court with its extreme right-wing majority. The court declined to hear an appeal by the government to reverse a lower courts stay of Dellingers summary removal without cause, so the final outcome remains uncertain for even this high profile and nakedly illegal action.

This is the judicial and executive bureaucracy that workers are being asked to trust with their futures. In opposition to the cowardice and complicity of the union bureaucracy and the Democratic Party, opposition by National Park Service workers is growing more determined.

As fired USFS ranger Liz Crandall from the Deschutes National Forest in Oregon declared, I have dedicated my career and life to the US Forest Service. I have found my community, my people, and my purpose. I wont let that be taken away. I will not be silenced, and I will use the same tenacity I did when I demanded to become a volunteer all those years ago. Lets go.

Instagram post by former USFS ranger Liz Crandall on her experiences as part of the US Forest Service [Photo: Liz Crandall]

Crandall speaks for the vast majority of public lands workers, and indeed the vast majority of workers, who are more and more coming into conflict with the Trump administration and the capitalist social order which it defends.
TOKYO - Japan Airlines Co. on Monday unveiled a special jet wrapped with images of Gundam, the main mechanical figure of the popular Japanese sci-fi anime, that will fly on domestic routes ahead of and during the World Exposition starting in Osaka next month.

The Gundam images on the Boeing 737-800 jet have been taken from video footage that will be shown at Japanese toymaker Bandai Namco Holdings Inc.'s pavilion during the expo. The plane also features images of the expo's official character Myaku-Myaku.

The aircraft was unveiled to media at Tokyo's Haneda airport on Monday prior to its inaugural flight to Tokushima in western Japan. The plane will continue to operate domestically until around November, according to JAL.

The project is aimed at boosting momentum ahead of the expo, which will run from April 13 to Oct. 13 on the artificial island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay, JAL and Bandai Namco said.

Related coverage:

Some standout pavilions at 2025 World Expo Osaka

Life-sized Gundam robot statue completed for 2025 World Expo

Disney-themed shinkansen bullet train shown ahead of launch
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UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hosts a European Leaders Summit at Lancaster House. March 2, 2025 [Photo by Lauren Hurley/No 10 Downing Street/Flickr / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The leaders of all the major European powersincluding Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spainalong with Canada, Turkeys foreign minister, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskymet at Lancaster House in London on Sunday to formulate a united response to US President Donald Trumps unilateral pursuit of an agreement with Russia over Ukraine.

The summit, convened by British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, not only confirmed the historic breakdown of US-European relations, but also underscored the European powers response: a commitment to continuing and even escalating the war with Russia, including the deployment of up to 30,000 troops in Ukraine.

Starmer announced immediate plans to form a European coalition of the willing to enforce a peace deal in Ukraine, involving UK boots on the ground and planes in the air. While still seeking US support in the form of an air defense backstop, future plans centre on European military rearmament on a scale not seen since the 1930s.

Europes leaders met in the wake of the explosive White House confrontation between Trump and Zelensky on Friday. Trump and Vice President J. D. Vance publicly berated Zelensky for being disrespectful to the United States by asking for security guarantees before signing a deal that would grant the US control over the lions share of Ukraines mineral wealth.

Trump sees the war in Ukraine as an expensive failure. He now wants immediate US access to Ukraines rare earths and other strategic assets by negotiating a deal with President Vladimir Putinone that Moscow has made clear would also grant the US access to Russian resources far exceeding those in Ukraine.

A defeat in Ukraine would be a major blow to the European powers, as would the US gaining a stranglehold on mineral deposits vital to the continents economies. Even more alarming to the European powers is the prospect of a broader US-Russia alliance, which they see as an existential threat. This is the real reason why the UK, France and other countries are now considering deploying troops to Ukraine, risking direct war with Russiawith or without US support.

At this stage, Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italys fascist Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and others insist that nothing will proceed without US approval, and any European proposal will be submitted for Trumps consideration. However, whatever attempts at a compromise are made and whatever the difficulties posed to London, Paris and Berlin, the direction is toward open conflict with Washington.

Trumps incendiary and sometimes erratic behavior follows a clear political and economic logic. A section of the American ruling class, epitomized by the worlds richest man, Elon Musk, views Europe not as an ally but as a direct competitor. This group is willing to consider a political, economic and even military alliance with Russia to counter what they perceive as a greater threat to US strategic interests: the European Union.

Russia is a minor economic power, largely dependent on supplying the world economy with raw materials, fuels and foodstuffs. In contrast, Europe collectively is Americas largest economic rival after China, with an economy 10 times the size of Russias. Trump has repeatedly attacked the EU, calling it an atrocity designed to screw America. This week, he announced plans to impose 25 percent tariffs on European goods very soon.

America First means Europe now comes last.

The NATO alliance, which has kept Europe under Americas nuclear umbrella since the end of World War II, now faces an immediate threat. Musk made this explicit on Sunday by reposting a statement from leading Trump supporter Gunther Eagleman declaring, Its time to leave NATO and the UN, adding his own endorsement: I agree. He also amplified a post by Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, who dismissed NATO as a Cold War relic that needs to be relegated to a talking kiosk at the Smithsonian.

A significant aspect of Europes appealsthough nominally directed at Trumpis the calculation that powerful factions within the US ruling class strongly oppose Trumps overtures to Putin. Represented politically by the Democratic Party, these forces harbor deep hostility toward Russia and see Trumps threats to blow apart NATO and other pillars of the post-war order as a strategic threat to arrangements that have secured American hegemony for decades.

The European powers have long portrayed themselves as a restraining hand on American imperialisms worst excesses. Today their disagreements with Washington centre on continuing the war in Ukraine, including Starmers pledge of an additional $2 billion to buy air defence missiles.

The only constraint on Europes aggressive pursuit of its imperialist interests is the speed at which it can rearm. Across every European capital, the primary discussion revolves around accelerating military expansion.

The German ruling class is considering a special rearmament fund of at least 200 billion, in addition to the already spent 100 billion, while pushing for the conversion of key industries from civilian to military production. Meanwhile, the European Union is advancing proposals for a 500 billion rearmament bank to finance the continents military buildup.

The influential Bruegel Institute wrote, Europe could need 300,000 more troops and an annual defence spending hike of at least 250 billion in the short term to deter Russian aggression. The Economist cited a figure of 300 billion.

Trade and military conflict require the complete mobilization of society for war. Gutting the remnants of Europes post-World War II welfare state is the only way that the continents capitalist governments can pay for the military spending now demanded. And this means waging war against the working class.

Bemoaning an indebted, ageing continent that is barely growing and cannot defend itself or project hard power, The Economist called for a fiscal revolution. It explained, Europe will have to cut welfare: Angela Merkel, Germanys former chancellor, used to say that Europe accounted for 7% of the worlds population, 25% of its GDP but 50% of its social spending.

The Bruegel Institutes figure of a 250 billion increase in defence spending in the short term is 5 percent of the EUs roughly 5 trillion in spending on social programs (primarily pensions, welfare and healthcare) and education. Yet even this would only raise military spending to around 3 percent of GDP, up from the current 1.6 percent, while ruling class strategists are now openly discussing targets of 4 or even 5 percent.

This strategic imperative for the ruling classes of Europeand not just the support offered by Trump and Muskaccounts for the cultivation of far-right parties, such as the Alternative for Germany and Melonis Brothers of Italy. They are the spearhead for the systematic attack on basic democratic rights and the constant scapegoating of migrant workers to promote nationalist reaction.

The massive protests and general strike in Greece on Friday underscore the rapid growth of class antagonisms, long suppressed by the trade unions, social democratic and Stalinist parties and their pseudo-left accomplices. As Europes governments escalate their assault on the working class, even larger and more intense social struggles are inevitable.

But these struggles must be guided by a new political perspective: the program of socialist internationalism, which unites the fight against war with the defense of living standards and democratic rights.

Workers and young people must reject all attempts to line them up behind one or another imperialist bloc, oppose all national divisions with their brothers and sisters internationally, and defy all attempts to impose the costs of militarism and war on their backs.

No faction of the ruling classin America, Russia or any European countryrepresents democracy or offers any way forward to the mass of the worlds people confronting war and socio-economic devastation. That path will be forged by the socialist struggle of the international working class.
A US Customs and Border Protection agent and a U.S. Marine with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, measure the southern border wall near San Ysidro, California, February 6, 2025. [Photo: Staff Sgt. Luc Boatman]

Under the pretext of a non-existent invasion of immigrants, President Donald Trump has ordered the further deployment of thousands of armed, combat-ready US military forces along the US-Mexico border.



Over the weekend, fascist Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered an additional 3,000 active-duty US Army soldiers to be sent to the border, on top of the already 1,600 soldiers and 2,500 Marines announced last month. Troops are currently deployed throughout the Southwest United States, including in the states of California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. Posting on his X account Saturday, Hegseth wrote We are dead serious about 100% OPERATIONAL CONTROL of the southern border.

US Northern Command announced on Saturday that the bulk of the soldiers (2,400) deploying will be from the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, from Fort Carson, Colorado. The Stryker is an eight-wheeled, 20-ton infantry combat vehicle and troop carrier.

Tasks for the Stryker teams, according to the military, include detection and monitoring; administrative support; transportation support; warehousing and logistic support; vehicle maintenance; and engineering support. As of now, Army personnel will not conduct or be involved in interdiction or deportation operations, according to the military.

Stryker combat teams were first deployed in November 2003 during the invasion of Iraq and have also been deployed to Afghanistan as part of the USs global war on terror. The Biden administration also provided the Ukrainian military Stryker vehicles to assist in the Kursk incursion last year. Stryker combat teams have also previously deployed to the southern border during the Obama administration in 2012.

A US Army Stryker combat vehicle. The eight-wheeled infantry transport vehicle was first deployed in November 2003 during the invasion of Iraq. [Photo: Spc. Tin Vuong]

Other units deploying to the border, the military confirmed on Saturday, include 500 soldiers from the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade from Fort Stewart, Georgia and propagandists from the 19th Public Affairs Detachment out of Fort Riley, Kansas. According to the military, the latest deployments will bring the total number of soldiers on the border to approximately 9,000.

The militarization of the US-Mexico border is part of the Trump administrations ongoing efforts to prepare for the deployment of the US military domestically against all political opposition to the policies of the financial oligarchy. Since his inauguration, Trump has issued a flurry of executive orders attacking the democratic rights of the entire working class, including those with or without papers.

On the same day the latest troop deployment was announced, Trump signed an executive order declaring English the official language of the United States. Seeking to whip up racists in his base and divide the working class, the first sentence of the order falsely declares: From the founding of our Republic, English has been used as our national language.

As a matter of fact, throughout the nearly 250-year history of the United States, there has been no national language designated by the US government, English or otherwise. The founders did not include an English provision in the US Constitution and according to a 2019 US Census Bureau report, almost 1 in 5 people, or nearly 68 million in the United States speak a language other than English at home, nearly triple the 23.1 million the agency recorded in 1980.

The racist and chauvinist order is not only a symptom of the vast cultural and social decline in the United States, but part of the broader attack on any and all social services provided by the US government. Trumps order lays the groundwork for banning all multi-lingual services and government communication, leaving non-English speakers unable to communicate with government officials or agencies.

Notably, Trumps EO revokes President Bill Clintons Executive Order 13166 of August 11, 2000 (Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency). EO 13166 required federal agencies to provide services to those with limited English proficiency.

Trumps EO will not only make it much harder for non-English speakers to apply for federal benefits they would normally be entitled to, but could also lead to voter disenfranchisement, unemployment as well as hasten deportation proceedings.

While the US government estimates some 11 million people are not authorized to be in the country, the deportation agencies do not know exactly where everyone lives. The Washington Post reported last week that officials with the Department of Homeland Security were requesting senior officials at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provide the home addresses of 700,000 people to DHS for possible deportation



The IRS has, so far, refused multiple requests to divulge the lists. Since its inception, the IRS has maintained a strict policy of refusing to share taxpayer data with any outside agency on a broad scale, but has shared taxpayer information with the Department of Justice and DHS during criminal investigations.

Despite claims from fascists and racists, immigrants, including undocumented persons, are still obligated to pay taxes in the United States even though they are not eligible for many benefits including Social Security. In order to encourage immigrants who are not eligible for Social Security to file taxes, the IRS provides individual taxpayer numbers or ITINS.

The Post, quoting a federal official, reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may want to gain access to the IRS databases because they would contain ITINS that can be linked to current workplaces, home addresses and even family information, such as the number of children and their ages.

Seeking to expand the deportation apparatus, last week the Trump administration announced it was reopening a 1,000-bed detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. Currently some 43,000 people are incarcerated at public and private detention facilities throughout the United States and at the notorious Guantanamo migrant concentration camp.

While the immigration gestapo has conducted more arrests under Trump compared to Bidens last year in office, National Public Radio reported over the weekend that arrests and deportations have not kept up with the goals set by the Trump administration. After previously posting daily updates of the number of arrests in January, ICE stopped publishing totals after they declined to under 1,000 per day.

NPR, citing DHS data, reported that the latest figures show that less than 600 people per day on average were booked into detention facilities, well below the 1,200 to 1,500 arrests per day demanded by Trump.

Among those arrested by US Customs and Border Protection in the last month include 26-year-old German tourist and artist Jessica Brosche. After meeting up with her American best friend Nikita Lofving in Tijuana, Mexico, Brosche was arrested trying to cross into the US at the San Diego border crossing.

Despite having a return flight to Berlin on February 15, Brosche has been incarcerated for over a month after CBP agents accused her of violating the terms of her visa waiver program because they claim she intended to work as a tattoo artist while visiting her friend in Los Angeles.

In an interview with ABC10 in San Diego, Brosche said she has been at the Otay Mesa Detention Center for over a month after previously being held in solitary confinement for eight days in ICE custody. It was horrible. Like its really horrible, she told the outlet.

Lofving told ABC that after being held in solitary, staff at the private detention facility tried to prescribe Brosche anti-psychotic medicine. She says it was like a horror movie, Lofving said. They were screaming in all different rooms. After nine days, she said she went so insane that she started punching the walls and then shes got blood on her knuckles.
25 years ago: John Pilgers Killing the Children of Iraqa price worth paying? airs in the United Kingdom

On March 6, 2000, Australian anti-war journalist John Pilgers documentary Killing the Children of Iraqa price worth paying? aired in the United Kingdom. The film exposed both the devastating human toll inflicted on the Iraqi people by 10 years of sanctions and the hypocrisy and lies of the imperialist powers and the United Nations.

Pilger (1939-2023) visited hospitals, schools, homes and markets to interview workers, doctors, artists, parents and UN aid workers about the life-and-death struggles Iraqis faced. He put a human face on the appalling statistics proving that the US-led Gulf War and UN-imposed sanctions were devastating Iraqi society and producing mass suffering and death.

John Pilger leaves the High Court in London after Julian Assange's extradition appeal hearing on July 12, 2011. [AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth]

In order to sell the criminal sanctions to the public, US President Bill Clinton, British Prime Minister Tony Blair and the United Nations claimed their actions had noble intentions, wrapped around humanitarianism and eliminating the supposed imminent threat to world peace, Saddam Husseinonce a CIA assetand his alleged hidden stockpiles of weapons of mass destruction. In fact, Scott Ritter, the chief UN weapons inspector from 1991 to 1998, said all chemical, biological and nuclear weapons production facilities and programs had been destroyed and the threat by Iraq was zero, none.

The brutal impact of the sanctions hit the most vulnerable and impoverished sections of society. Child mortality rose to 4,000 per month among those aged five and under. Cancer rates shattered records, due to the widespread use of chemical and radioactive weapons by the US and Britain during the Gulf War. Most of those diagnosed with cancer died due to the blockade of medicine and pervasive malnutrition. Even vaccines for yellow fever and diphtheria had been barred from entering the country.

In one scene, the documentary states that the US and Britain have killed more people through the imposition of sanctions against Iraq than were killed by two atomic bombs dropped on Japan in World War IIincluding half a million children.

The US government and its allies had no scruples murdering innocent children for geopolitical gain and the exploitation of Iraqs resources for the further enrichment of the oligarchy. When US Secretary of State Madeline Albright was asked if 500,000 Iraqi children was a price worth paying to overthrow Saddam Hussein, she had replied, We think the price is worth it.

Pilgers film exposed the fraudulent humanitarianism of all the perpetrators by placing the mountain of dead Iraqis at the doorsteps of Washington, London and Brussels.

50 years ago: Israeli response to hostage situation leaves 18 dead

On March 5, 1975, eight militants from the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) entered the Savoy Hotel in Tel Aviv and took hostage several employees and guests of the hotel. The situation would end in a bloodbath after the Israeli government launched a reckless military assault that prioritized killing the PLO militants over the lives of the hostages.

The Savoy operation took place during a wave of escalating Palestinian militancy following the 1973 Yom Kippur War. While the war saw Egypt and Syria reclaim some territories occupied by Israel, the agreements signed to end the fighting made no provisions for the Palestinians, who remained occupied or displaced from their homeland.

The PLO had recently gained recognition by the United Nations as the official representative of the Palestinian people, but Israel, backed by US imperialism, refused negotiations, instead expanding settlements and intensifying repression in occupied territories.

The March 5 operation began with the eight PLO fighters landing by boat near Tel Aviv. The militants then stormed the luxury Savoy Hotel, taking 15 hostages, including Israeli guests and foreign tourists. In return for the safe release of the hostages the PLO demanded the release of 20 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin of the Labor Party, rejected any negotiations with the PLO. Instead, Sayeret Matkal commandos were ordered to storm the hotel at dawn on March 6. The assault triggered a chaotic firefight.

In addition to gunfire, the Israeli forces deployed explosives, igniting a blaze that engulfed the building. Survivors recounted horrifying scenes of civilians caught in crossfire or suffocated by smoke.

Aftermath of the attack on the Savoy Hotel in Tel Aviv [Photo by IDF Spokesperson's Unit / CC BY-SA 3.0

The operation resulted in the death of eight hostages, alongside seven PLO fighters. Three Israeli soldiers were also killed in the fighting.

The Savoy tragedy followed Israels policy established in earlier confrontations, such as the 1974 Maalot massacre, where a similar raid resulted in 22 dead schoolchildren. Each crisis reinforced the Rabin governments doctrine of absolute refusal to negotiate with Palestinian militants, regardless of civilian casualties. This strategy, sanctioned by US imperialism, aimed to crush Palestinian resistance through collective punishment and psychological terror.

In addition to revealing once again the barbarity of the Zionist state, the Savoy attack demonstrated the futility of individual acts of resistance divorced from the mobilization of the international working class. The PLOs tactics reflected the desperation of an oppressed people denied basic democratic rights, including national self-determination. But Israels responseaided by imperialist powersdemonstrated the intent of the Zionist state to kill off any attempt at Palestinian resistance, no matter the cost in human life, even of Israeli citizens.

75 years ago: Nearly 400,000 striking US coal miners sent back to work after month-long strike

On March 5, 1950, United Mine Workers of America President John L. Lewis signed a pact with coal mine operators to end the month-long strike of 370,000 bituminous coal miners. Hours later, tens of thousands of the striking workers resumed work at the mines.

Lewis declared the nationwide strike of the coal miners on February 6. The previous contract between the UMWA and the mining operators had expired the previous June, with negotiations failing to reach a settlement in that time. The rank-and-file workers were propelled to fight against the insecurity of working without a contract.

Lewis in Shenandoah, Pennsylvania, 1938

The day after the stoppage began, US President Harry S. Truman invoked the 1947 Taft-Hartley Act against the strike, declaring that the UMWA could not give any aid to the miners. In addition, the move prohibited any miner from influencing another to stay out of work, otherwise they would be liable to face contempt charges.

The striking miners thus sent rank-and-file delegations to make appeals for food and financial assistance for the workers and their families. These appeals were met with support, with thousands of dollars provided to the miners, as well as several tons worth of food trucks. A number of unions also passed unanimous resolutions calling for a 24-hour nationwide general strike to aid the coal miners.

It was in this context that the coal mining corporations signed an agreement with Lewis and the UMWA to give concessions to the workers, to prevent a broadening of workers struggles which could quickly spiral out of the control of the unions.

The resulting agreement saw the miners gain an average increase of $1.40 per day in wages, corresponding to a 70 percent increase. The workers also increased their welfare and pension fund from 20 to 30 cents per ton, as well as gaining a contract term of 28 months.

100 years ago: British bomb Pashtun tribesmen in South Waziristan

On March 9, 1925, the Royal Air Force (RAF) began a campaign of aerial bombardment and strafing of Pashtun tribal areas in South Waziristan in the North-West Frontier Province of the British Raj, today located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in northern Pakistan. The action would last for 57 days.

The bombardment, also known as Pinks War after Wing Commander Richard Pink who led the assault, was a follow-up to the 1921-24 Waziristan Campaign by the British and colonial Indian armies, which sought to build infrastructure to link the North-West Frontier Province to the rest of the Raj so that British imperialism could quickly suppress tribal uprisings, particularly of the Mashud tribe.

A Pashtun Mashud tribesman in Waziristan, circa 1919

Militarily, Pinks war marked the first large-scale effort by an imperialist power to subdue a people by airpower alone. It was the first independent action of the RAF and lodged itself in military doctrine as one of the first examples of air control.

While Pinks War forced the Mashud into negotiations, the tribe was able to strike back with force against the imperialists in 1927 and 1928. The British had been unable to conquer the tribal areas in this region, and in fact would never be able to do so. Waziristan, while a part of Pakistan today, remains semi-independent of the federal government. The region has a fluid border with Afghanistan to its north and has played a role in providing a haven for Pashtun fighters, first against the Soviet Union and then against the United States.

As one British commentator in colonial India noted, The Mashud tribe are a people who can never even think of submitting to a foreign power.
During a shift change at Stellantiss Vauxhall van plant in Luton, which is scheduled to begin closing at the end of March, World Socialist Web Site reporters distributed hundreds of copies of a recent statement: Stellantis Luton closure confirmed with 1,200 job losses: Workers must adopt a new strategy.

WSWS team distributing the statement to workers at the Luton plant last week

Stellantiss closure in Luton, England, brings an end to 120 years of vehicle production in the city, and is part of a new stage in the global war against car workers jobs. The WSWS statement distributed at Vauxhalls factory gates urged the formation of rank-and-file committees at Luton and at the companys Ellesmere Port plant, warning that no faith can be placed in Unite the union or the Labour government to oppose the closure.

Workers slammed Unites refusal to organize a collective fight against the closure, and expressed anger over the Starmer governments refusal to defend hundreds of jobs. A Unite banner draped over the factory gate just days after the closure announcement last November read: WERE BACKING LUTON. It had been removed shortly before the company hosted meetings laying out proposed severance packages.

Unite's "We're Backing Luton" banner has been removed from the company gates following the union's sellout of the fight to keep the plant open, February 28, 2025

Many workers expressed shock and disbelief that the closure was going ahead, citing its devastating impact on Luton, including a further 5,000 jobs that will be destroyed in regional supply industries.

Luton is one of the poorest cities in Britain, with a child poverty rate of 46 percent. A furious worker told WSWS reporters, Im for a fight, but the unions are not. They have fought for us in the past, but not this time. They just let the factory close.

He said the Labour government had agreed to the closure, They were only interested in keeping at least one electric van producing factory open, so were the council, [while] pretending to be our friends. Ill give Ellesmere Port a few years maximum--of course Stellantis are going to close it.

Another worker said, I told your reporters last time that its not just going to be Luton shutdown, Ellesmere port will be shut down because the government are not giving Stellantis concessions they want, so they will just move on like they are doing all over the world.

Another worker said, I have read these [leaflets]. I want a fight. The Labour council said they wanted to be on our side, yet they are now discussing with Stellantis to purchase the land when the plant shuts. They are f... liars. What is there [left] here? Its the last major factory in Luton.

A group of workers who stopped to talk said that Unite have done nothing. If the union had told us what exactly was going on and started a fight, Im all for it; Id be the first in line to fight for our jobs. His colleague added, Its the workers united together internationally have the power to fight these companies. The union didnt tell us any of this and this is where we are now.

Another Luton worker described his own experience with union officials: You knock on the door, and they are not in. Theres no response. They are not telling us anything. Nobodys telling whats going, except [that] they are going through a procedure. Honestly, I cannot tell you anything, I just dont know.

One worker predicted how Vauxhalls land will be used for profiteering. He pointed to luxury flats built where the car plant was located prior to its closure in 2002, Look around the corner, prime real estate 30 minutes from London. This will be developed with massive profits for Stellantis. Ill read your leaflet.

Another worker summed up his 25 years experience with car companies and Unite the union: The car factory has gone, the van factory gone, car parts factory has gone, they have all gone. What has the union done? Allowed them all to close.

A veteran production line worker told reporters, Im devastated about the closure. Luton is already deprived. My grandfather worked in this plant. It has a rich history of car and van building. I dont know what Im going to do to find work.

Many workers spoke of an uncertain future, I returned to work on a temporary contract. I took the job as I was desperate for work to pay my bills. And now they are closing the factory. I dont know where to go.

Reporters explained that Stellantis in America had just slashed its profit-sharing bonuses to workers by 70 percent, and warned that no agreements by the company can be trusted, including on proposed redundancy packages.

Workers discussed their own experience with profit-sharing in Britain, Im devastated. We got a miserly 132 on the profit-sharing bonus and Ive got to pay tax on it, while Stellantis earned 5 billion in profits. Another said, Guess what? We got 132, and they are shutting the plant. His colleague added, Theyve made 5 billion in profit. Our share? 132 pounds.

Its really stressful at the minute, another Luton worker told WSWS reporters, All Carlos Tavarez [former Stellantis CEO] has done is take the money and stuffed the workers.

Productivity deals agreed between Unite and Stellantis, packaged as the only way to stop closure, were also angrily attacked by workers: They promised me yeah you will be alright. Now Im going to have to look for another job. Im only young. There are no jobs round here, the area is deprived. They made us push hard, and promised [us] all is OK, the plant will stay open if we hit the targets. All they have done is take the money and run. Stellantis is just greedy. GM [General Motors, the former owner of Vauxhall] should have stayed.

WSWS reporters said it was crucial that workers adopt an international strategy, uniting car workers across Europe, North America and Asia. The auto companies are carrying out a coordinated jobs massacre worldwide, using AI to slash costs. In 2002, it was GM that closed car production at Luton, with the loss of 2,000 jobs.

Many workers asked how a fight could be conducted so late in the day. WSWS reporters urged a careful study of the strategy being advanced by the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC). The IWA-RFC is building support among autoworkers in the US, Canada, Mexico and Germany. A fight by workers in Luton against the closure would be greeted enthusiastically by workers across the UK and worldwide who are facing the same problems.

Workers expressed interest in learning more about the IWA-RFC and subscribing to the WSWS Autoworkers Newsletter.

Workers at Luton and Ellesmere Port must take matters into their own hands. Already at Nissan Sunderland (in the north east of England), Unite has negotiated with company executives to shut-down the nightshift. With 6,000 workers, it is the UKs largest car factory. Nissan wants to shut three factories in Europe to protect their profits. The jobs massacre will be massively escalated under conditions of a global tariff war driven by the anarchy of the capitalist nation-state system.

As the WSWS statement distributed at the factory gates explained: Even at this late stage in the closure programme, rank-and-file workers can intervene and alter the course of events. They should establish their own committees at the Luton and Ellesmere plants and contact Stellantiss workers internationally, as well as BMW, Nissan and Ford workers also facing plant closures and cuts to jobs and wages. Then they can begin to plan a counteroffensive.
Health, Education, and Labor Committee Ranking Member Sen. Bernie Sanders, Independent-Vermont, in Washington Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. [AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin]

A trio of prominent Democratic senators appeared on Sunday television interview programs to denounce President Trump and Vice President JD Vance for their Friday gang-up on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which ended with Zelensky being asked to leave the White House and Trump aides suggesting that the administration might cut off military and economic aid to his country.

All three DemocratsAmy Klobuchar, who was interviewed on ABC, Chris Murphy, who appeared on CNN, and Bernie Sanders, who spoke on NBCsuggested that Trump was doing the work of Russian President Vladimir Putin. They all backed the Democratic Partys pro-war line, calling for stepped-up military aid to Ukraine and intensive efforts to defeat the Russian forces, which occupy about one-fifth of Ukraines territory, in the east and south.

Klobuchar, who was a candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020, said she just couldnt believe how the Friday meeting between Zelensky, Trump and Vance developed into a shouting match. We stand with our friends, not our enemies, she said. The great country of America goes into negotiations with strength, not surrender.

The Minnesota Democrat told ABC anchor George Stephanopoulos that the conflict with Zelensky is not in President Trumps best interest. She suggested that the meeting had been an ambush setup, adding, It was Vice President Vance, particularly, who was on the offense, who was berating President Zelensky, who simply was trying to explain that... we needed a strong security commitment from all of our allies to be able to have a lasting peace, which is something that President Trump says that he wants to see.

In an earlier interview on CNN Friday, after the White House meeting, Klobuchar rejected the demands for an apology from Zelensky, declaring, I think it is not an exaggeration to say, the future of Europe, the future of the free world, is before us. At the same time, she called on Zelensky to sign a deal proposed by Trump to give US control over much of Ukraines mineral resources.

Appearing on CNNs State of the Union program, Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy used far more apocalyptic language. He denounced the conduct of the White House as absolutely shameful The White House has become an arm of the Kremlin. Every single day, you hear from the national security adviser, from the president of the United States, from his entire national security team Kremlin talking points.

Murphy claimed that Trump was rewriting history in order to sign a deal with Putin that hands Putin Ukraine. That is disastrous for US national security. That means that China will be on the march. Putin may not stop. America may be at war with a nuclear power.

While claiming he had no problem with a diplomatic solution to the war, the Democratic senator declared, What Trump is suggesting is that there is going to be a cease-fire that will require Ukraine to withdraw from the front, which then allows Putin to just march straight into Ukraine.

When interviewer Dana Bash pointed out that Murphy had voted to confirm Senator Marco Rubio as secretary of state, Murphy said he had made a mistake. I think a lot of us thought that Marco Rubio was going to stand up to Donald Trump on an issue like this that when Donald Trump would come to him and say, help me move America closer to Russia and to Russian values, Marco Rubio would stand up to him. Marco Rubio has not, and thats been a great disappointment to many of his former colleagues in the Senate.

The third senator to appear was the nominally independent Senator Bernie Sanders, who has twice sought the presidential nomination of the Democratic Party. He is currently engaged in a campaign to plead with moderate House Republicans to oppose Trumps budget cuts, conducted in rallies held under the fraudulent slogan of Fighting Oligarchy.

The first question from Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker was about his reaction to the Oval Office meeting and the suggestion by House Speaker Mike Johnson, who preceded him on the program, that it might be necessary for Zelensky to resign as part of a peace deal with Russia.

Sanders replied, I think that is a horrific suggestion. Zelensky is leading a country, trying to defend democracy against an authoritarian dictator, Putin, who invaded his country. And I think millions of Americans are embarrassed, are ashamed, that you have a president of the United States who says that Ukraine started the war, that Zelensky is a dictator. Hes got it exactly backwards.

Wrapping himself in the American flag, Sanders continued, And our job is to defend the 250-year tradition that we have of being the democratic leader of the world, not turn our backs on a struggling country that is trying to do the right thing.

The two top congressional Democrats sounded the same theme in comments on the Trump-Zelensky meeting. Senate Democratic Leader Charles Schumer said, Trump and Vance are doing Putins dirty work. Senate Democrats will never stop fighting for freedom and democracy.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the Oval Office meeting appalling, saying it will only serve to further embolden Vladimir Putin, a brutal dictator. The United States must not reward Russian aggression and continue to appease Putin.

This barrage of criticism is far noisier than anything the Democrats have mounted over Trumps ferocious assaults on federal workers, his demonization and persecution of immigrants, his efforts to establish a presidential dictatorship, or his support for massive cuts in federal spending on health care, with Medicaid as the most likely target. This disparity only confirms that the central issue dividing the two corporate-controlled parties is foreign policy, as it was during Trumps first administration, when he was first impeached for temporarily holding back a shipment of weapons to Ukraine.

Schumer gave the clearest expression of the real priorities of the Democrats when he announced that Senator Elissa Slotkin of Michigan, a former CIA officer, would give the official Democratic rebuttal to Trumps nationally televised address to a joint session of Congress on March 4.

Slotkin spent years in Iraq with the CIA, after the US invasion of that country in 2003. She then headed the Iraq desk at the National Security Councilthe White House agency that coordinates US foreign policyfirst under Republican George W. Bush, then under Democrat Barack Obama, before moving to the Pentagon and finishing her military-intelligence career as a top aide to John Negroponte, the first US director of national intelligence.

Slotkin was one of more than a dozen CIA Democrats first elected to the House of Representatives in 2018 as the Democratic Party positioned itself as an aggressive proponent of US military intervention abroad, particularly against Russia. Her selection is a further indication that the US-NATO war in Ukraine remains the central priority of the Democratic wing of the US corporate elite.
The Trump administration nominated former veteran UPS and Amazon executive David Keeling to head the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) last month. Keeling is being tasked with the rollback of workplace safety rules and regulations nominally intended to protect workers.

Keeling will serve directly under Trump nominee for US Secretary of Labor, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, who is likely to be approved by the US Senate.

Chavez-DeRemer and Keeling have gained support from the corporate-aligned trade union bureaucracy, including Teamsters President Sean OBrien. The Teamsters praised Keeling in a post on X/Twitter, a platform owned by Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has a vested interest in weakening workplace safety regulations.

The Teamster post said, Keeling worked as a part-time package handler at United Parcel Service before spending nearly 20 years with UPS, referring to his start at UPS when he was a college student in Louisville, Kentucky, while glossing over his rapid rise from the warehouse to the executive offices.

In response one worker angrily posted, What are we doing congratulating someone from UPS management? Wheres my air conditioning in the truck? We had an epidemic of drivers either dying or getting severely injured by heat exhaustion! And we are congratulating someone from UPS safety?!

Despite paying occasional lip service to health and safety, Keeling as UPS vice president for global safety, oversaw a regime that placed the profits of management above the lives of workers. Under his watch the company had refused to install air conditioning on delivery vehicles in order to save on fuel costs all the while imposing grueling production targets on drivers.

In August 2023 The World Socialist Web Site reported on the heat-related death of a Texas UPS driver from prolonged on-the-job exposure to a 108-degree Fahrenheit temperatures, The worker, 57-year-old UPS worker Christopher Begley, a 28-year UPS veteran, died after collapsing on the job while delivering a package near McKinney, a suburb of Dallas, Texas.

Christopher Begley, 57, a 28-year UPS veteran, died from heat exhaustion in Texas in 2023. [Photo: Family photo via International Brotherhood of Teamsters]

Subsequently, Keeling served as Director of Road and Transportation Safety at Amazon from 2021 to 2023, during the early stages of the ongoing pandemic. Amazon, founded by billionaire oligarch Jeff Bezos, is a company notorious for unsafe workplace conditions and an extraordinarily high injury rate.

In December of last year, the WSWS posted an article concerning the OSHA whitewash of the deaths of three Amazon workers in 2022, who died at separate Amazon warehouses in New Jersey within weeks of each other. The three, Rafael Mota Frias, Rodger Boland and Eric Vadinsky all died under brutal conditions involving excessive heat.

A report into the deaths was delayed by OSHA. And when it was finally released, it held Amazon blameless. The whitewash was another example of the toothless nature of OSHA regulations and fines, which are aimed at shielding corporations, not protecting workers. Keelings nomination illustrates the perpetual revolving door between industry and government regulatory agencies under both Democrats and Republicans. As a result, the very corporate criminals violating the rights of workers and the public are the ones put in charge of regulating their industries.



At the US Postal Service (USPS) workers are experiencing deeper cuts and the worsening of already dangerous working conditions as part of the drive toward privatization. One tragic case was the heat-related death of Eugene Gates, 66, a Dallas, Texas USPS veteran of 38 years, who collapsed and died while on the job in 2023. On the day of Gatess death, the heat index (that is what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is considered) was 115 degrees, reported the WSWS.

USPS had recently changed starting times from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., thus increasing workers exposure to temperatures in the hottest hours of the day. After Gatess death, USPS restored the previous start time.

A 2023 Department of Labor report cited 5,283 workplace deaths in the US, with an estimated 120,000 additional deaths from occupational illnesses. Trumps deregulatory agenda is expected to worsen these conditions, prioritizing corporate profits over worker safety.

Even mild workplace safety reforms introduced by Democrats have been rolled back by previous Republican administrations. Pro-business trade publications like Fisher Phillips have outlined expected rollbacks under Trumps OSHA nominee, Keeling. These include:

Scrapping enhanced electronic injury reporting rules;

Reducing public access to workplace safety data;

Blocking union representatives from job site visits;

Weakening heat safety regulations to favor employers;

Decreasing OSHA workplace inspections and enforcement; and

Stalling proposed infectious disease protections.

The token changes instituted by the Democratic Party under the Obama and Biden administrations failed to make a significant impact on lowering workplace fatalities, as illustrated by the chart below.

[Photo: BLS]

Workers worldwide are facing attacks on wages, safety, and living standards from Wall Street, multinational corporations and far-right governments, such as those led by Trump, Musk and their international counterparts from Milei in Argentina to Meloni in Italy.

To fight against these attacks, workers must organize independently. The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) calls for the formation of rank-and-file committees across industries to fight for safe conditions and to challenge the domination of corporate power. Worker safety and well-being must take first priority over the profits of billionaire capitalists.

To learn more about forming a rank-and-file committee at your workplace please fill out the form below.
The New Zealand political and media establishment continued to ratchet up tensions with the Cook Islands over the past week, as more details were released about the small Pacific countrys recent agreement with China.

Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown speaks during a plenary session at the COP29 UN Climate Summit, Nov. 13, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan. [AP Photo/Sergei Grits]

In mid-February, Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown signed a comprehensive strategic partnership with the Chinese government. The deal was furiously denounced by New Zealand, which has long maintained a neo-colonial relationship with the Pacific nation as one of its so-called Realm countries along with Niue and Tokelau.

The document is broad in scope and worded in general terms. It pledges cooperation to strengthen economic and environmental resilience, infrastructure and multilateral bodies. It also promises to explore areas for further cooperation within the seabed minerals sector.

In the New Zealand media, the deal has been hysterically denounced as a threat and used to justify the ongoing integration of the country into US-led plans for war against China.

While New Zealands Foreign Minister Winston Peters insisted he should have been consulted and seen the text before it was signed, Brown argued his country has the right to act as a sovereign and independent state.

On his return, Brown faced a 400-strong protest led by opposition MPsbacked by the New Zealand media and politicianswho claimed Cook Islanders rights to NZ citizenship were under threat. Fears were inflamed by statements from Peters that a referendum could be called over the Cook Islands move to full independence. Brown defeated a motion of no confidence in parliament over the affair, as well as a previous proposal to introduce a Cook Islands passport to replace the New Zealand one.

The war of words escalated following the release of an additional memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Cook Islands and China. TVNZ Pacific correspondent Barbara Dreaver declared on February 22 that the MoU, Deepening Blue Economy Cooperation, shows a raft of partnerships including building ports and ships, many of which will be problematic from New Zealands security perspective.

She noted that the release followed exercises by three Chinese warships in the Tasman Seawhich were seized upon by the New Zealand and Australian governments to justify major increases in military spending.

The MoU provides for investment cooperation in wharves, shipbuilding and repair, ocean transportation and deep-sea fishing bases. It also spells out that China and the Cook Islands will encourage business investment in green technology, jointly promote innovation in marine science and technology, green and low-carbon technology, and promote the application and transformation of science research achievements.

New Zealand media and foreign policy circles erupted with outrage. Jose Sousa-Santos of Canterbury Universitys new Pacific Regional Security Hub told TVNZ, This could enable China to have a resupply capacity for its navy in the Pacific facilitating its presence and acts of intimidation in the region, as seen by the recent live fire exercises in the Tasman Sea.

Massey University security studies professor Anna Powles told Radio NZ: China, through commercial actors, will be able to establish a significant strategic presence and reach into the Pacific. She claimed that the infrastructure would be used to support dozens of extra Chinese coast guard vessels. A number of those vessels are very large, very sophisticated, one of them which is larger than any Australian naval fleet, she ominously warned.

Right-wing New Zealand Herald columnist Matthew Hooton, who earlier proposed that New Zealand troops should invade the Cook Islands, belligerently declared on February 28 that Chinas agenda is to turn our Pacific neighbours into vassal states, with their resources exploited by Chinese companies, their governments unable to participate in international affairs without Beijings agreement, and the ports Beijing promises turned into a network of naval bases.

Pro-Labour Party Daily Blog editor Martyn Bradbury, an anti-China zealot, fulminated that the MoU was far worse than we possibly fearedthis is a direct challenge to NZ sovereignty. Denouncing the deal as treason, he claimed that China will immediately flood any port with their Chinese fishing militia and they will start actively plundering New Zealands fishing stock. What the Cooks had done, Bradbury fumed cannot stand.

The New Zealand authorities should not have been surprised by the MoU. Following a meeting between Brown and Chinas NZ Ambassador Wang Xiaolong in Auckland last September, the Cook Islands Foreign Affairs Ministry posted a statement on areas identified for expanded co-operation. The list included a multi-use transport hub in the Northern Cook Islands, inter-island transportation, digital connectivity and infrastructure.

Brown has hit back at the NZ critics for their ludicrous and ignorant perspectives on the deals, implying they view the Cook Islands as too dumb to understand the implications of its own decisions. He slammed suggestions that China will establish a military presence in the islands.

This is not about consultation. This is about control, Brown declared, accusing Wellington of using state media to drown out his government.

According to Brown, the Cook Islands needs to stand on our own two feet. We need to build the infrastructure to enable that, so harbours and ports need to be upgraded, airports need to be sealed so that we can have better connectivity with better flights, cheaper fares to the Pa Enua (the islands outside Raratonga), he said.

New Zealands ruling elite, whose interests in the Pacific are solely geo-strategic, has never exhibited any concern over the needs of the impoverished Cook Islands and its 15,000 inhabitants. The median income on the main island of Rarotonga was just $NZ18,000 in 2021, and in the outer islands a mere $11,000 a year. The Cook Islands were devastated by their isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-22.

NZ ruled the islands from 1901-1965 and since then has operated a neo-colonial, so-called free association arrangement in which Wellington assumes the right to dictate on foreign affairs and defence policy.

Far from assisting the Cook Islands to develop the infrastructure required to administer 15 islands spread over a vast ocean area of 2,200,000 km2 (850,000 sq miles), New Zealand has restricted itself to paltry and patronising aid hand-outs. Last May, the Cook Islands secured just $NZ20 million over two years in Core Sector Budget Support and $10.5 million for public sector strengthening from Wellington.

The propaganda that China wants a military foothold in the Pacific turns reality on its head to justify the accelerating preparations for war by the US and its regional allies. In recent years, xenophobic campaigns have been waged in Australian and New Zealand media over projected wharf developments in Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands involving China.

The imperialist powers are the ones stepping up military operations across the region aimed at Beijing. In 2022 the Solomon Islands government was threatened with a regime change operation if it allowed a permanent Chinese military presence. The US has signed a security deal with Papua New Guinea (PNG) giving its forces open access to the strategic Manus Island naval base. Fiji has been earmarked for intensifying military ties aimed against China.

Chinas ambassador Wang has not specifically commented on the Cook Islands furore but released a statement last week saying that as far as Beijing is concerned, the Pacific is not a chessboard and should not become one. Defining the raison detre of a country (i.e. China) in terms of imaginary island chains concocted to blockade or contain other countries is naive and even dangerous, he warned.

New Zealands ruling elite is determined to maintain its grip on the errant neo-colony. Peters confronted the issue directly with Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi last week in a visit to Beijing. He reportedly reminded China that New Zealands status with the Cook Islands as a realm country was very different than that with other Pacific nations. Peters testily claimed he learned more about the agreements from China than he had from the Cook Islands.

The ongoing diplomatic fracas exposes the fraudulent posturing that New Zealand and Australia routinely deploy about being benevolent paternal leaders of the Pacific family. Amid escalating geo-strategic tensions, any perceived threat to their imperialist interests will be increasingly met with bullying and brute force in order to maintain subservience among all the tiny island states.
In his pamphlet Imperialism, written in 1916 to analyse World War I and to explain why only a socialist revolution could end the descent into capitalist barbarism, Lenin, the leader of the Russian Revolution of October 1917, pointed to the importance of the acquisition of raw materials as one of the forces driving the imperialist great powers into war.

The more capitalism is developed, he wrote, the more strongly the shortage of raw materials is felt, the more intense the competition and the hunt for sources of raw materials throughout the world, the more desperate the struggle for the acquisition of colonies.

In Lenins day, this struggle centred on oilfields, iron ore and the like. With the development of computer technology and now AI, raw materials crucial to the making of semiconductors, batteries and communications systems have become the centre of a global struggle for acquisition of these resources. It has become an existential question for the US.

Lenins analysis of the objective, material driving forces for war, rooted in the domination of capitalist production by giant monopolies, very often owned by key sections of finance capital, has often been dismissed as too crude, out of date, an example of vulgar Marxism, and so on.

But the conflict between the US and the European Union over how the spoils of the Ukraine war should be divided up has revealed once again that imperialist wars are not fought for democracy or self-determination, protection of small nations, peace, etc., but for plunder.

Critical Minerals and the Future of the U.S. Economy [Photo: CSIS]

The crucial issue of raw materials is the subject of a recent analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), a major think tank for US imperialism.

It began by emphasising the importance of minerals.

Mining is the foundation that allowed the United States to be a military leader, providing the minerals needed to manufacture tanks, missiles, fighter jets, and warships.

But as with everything else in todays world, these weapons now require computerised systems and increasingly AI to operate, and this requires access to minerals that were only of limited importance in the past.

The CSIS immediately cut to the chase. Today the United States is 100 percent import-reliant for 12 of the 50 minerals identified as critical by the US Geological Survey (USGS) and over 50 percent import-reliant for another 29. China is the top producer for 29 of these critical minerals, it said.

China, it continued, has a stranglehold on minerals processing, refining between 40 and 90 percent of the worlds supply of rare elements, graphite, lithium, cobalt, and copper.

Like all other so-called mainstream publications, the New York Times has worked to cover over the essential driving forces of US wars and has actively joined in covering up the real motivations, such as in the 2003 war on Iraq when it was the chief promoter of the Big Lie that Iraq possessed weapons of mass destruction.

But even it has been forced to acknowledge the role of mineral resources as a driver of US policy, citing a remark by Trump that I want security of the rare earth at the beginning of a recent article referencing the CSIS analysis.

The president has talked about acquiring minerals in Greenland and Canada, it continued, and noted that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had told a group of business leaders that Trumps focus on Canadas minerals meant threats to annex the country were a real thing.

The article said that seizing mineral wealth overseas was a core foreign policy goal of Trump and an impetus for his most imperialistic remarks since taking office. His instincts hark back to the drives of fallen empires, when resource extraction motivated rulers to expand territory.

The likening of the US to fallen empires of the past is not misplaced. Its rise to dominance of the imperialist-capitalist system was based on its industrial power. Today the US is the centre of unprecedented speculation and has been hit with three financial heart attacks in the past 16 yearsthe 2008 crisis, the March 2020 crisis at the start of the pandemic, and the failure of three significant American banks in March 2023.

The extent of the problems confronting US imperialism as it seeks domination of the worlds supply of critical minerals and resources is documented throughout the CSIS report.

It noted that semiconductors were foundational for virtually every part of modern life, requiring small but essential components of gallium, germanium, palladium, silicon, arsenic, titanium, as well as other elements.

The production of these resources is largely concentrated in foreign adversaries, exposing a severe national security risk. USGS has estimated that just a 30 percent supply disruption of gallium could cause a $602 billion decline in US economic output, amounting to a 2.1 percent loss of gross domestic product.

The issue confronting the US is not just the location of rare earths, critical minerals and vital metals such as copper. Mining them is only the start of a complex process in which they have to be refined. And here the question is having those industrial processes in place.

As the report noted, crucial US industries are reliant on supply chains that are heavily concentrated in foreign adversaries.

Over the course of decades and with the assistance of state-led industrial policies and billions of dollars in subsidies, China has grown to dominate the manufacturing sector for the cutting-edge technologies that the modern economy relies on. The risk this poses to US national and economic security is untenable.

Clearly, if it is untenable, then it must be ended and by whatever means US imperialism considers necessary.

It noted that the CHIPS Act of the Biden administration, which provided major subsidies to firms manufacturing in the US, did not prioritize access to critical minerals, and as a result, the Acts focus on this area was minor.

Processing is among the key questions. The report pointed out that while China only produced 10 percent of the worlds lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper, it imported sufficient quantities to process 65 to 90 percent of the global supply of these metals.

It said the US would have to develop a carrots and sticks approach to drive market-based activity aligned with US government interests.

The world has already witnessed what that involves. In regard to the Ukraine and the demands of the Trump administration it was like, as even the Times commented, a Mafia dons extortion scheme.

But Mafia-like offers are only the beginning. The ultimate stick to be used in forcing alignment with the US is military force, which will come increasingly to the fore.
President Donald Trump holds a signed executive order in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, January 31, 2025, in Washington. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

Starting the day that Donald Trump took office, his administration initiated a sweeping attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)the identity-based privilege industry imposed in recent years in corporations, government and educational institutions.

Through the campaign against DEI, the White House is asserting unprecedented powers for the executive branch and dismantling democratic rights. Identity politics itself has laid the groundwork for this, fueling the growth of the far-right by suppressing the reality of class conflict and blaming one layer of workersespecially white men for racial oppression, sexism, homophobia, etc., even as conditions have worsened for all layers of the working class. The result has been frustration and disorientation, sentiments which the far-right feeds off.

On January 20, Trump issued Executive Order 14151, Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing. It described DEI as illegal and immoral and terminated all such mandates, policies, programs, preferences, and activities in the Federal Government, under whatever name they appear. It required a review of all equity-related federal grants, contracts, and services with the aim of eliminating them and reported on the economic and social costs of DEI in all areas of government. Environmental justice was singled out for special mention.

The following day, Trump issued Executive Order 14173, Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity, which tasks government agencies, including the Justice Department, with rooting out DEI not just in state institutions but also in the private sector, on the grounds that they violate civil rights law.

Following Trumps lead, newly installed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Trump fired the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Charles Q. Brown who is African American, and five other top military officers, in a purge of those Hegseth called DEI hires. Trump put his overt racism on display when he asserted that the January 29 crash of an American Airlines jet and a military helicopter in Washington DC happened because of DEI, saying, Brilliant people have to be in those positions.

Three weeks after his executive orders were issued, Trumps Department of Education issued a Dear Colleague letter that declared federal funding will be ended for educational institutions from preschool to the post-secondary level that fail to root out anything DEI-related or, importantly, that which the Trump administration might interpret as such. This includes not just matters pertaining to admissions, hiring, promotion, compensation, financial aid, scholarships, prizes, administrative support, discipline, housing, graduation ceremonies, but also all other aspects of student, academic, and campus life.

The letter prepares the way for the removal from curriculum of any subjects related to race, racial discrimination or the long history of racial oppression in the USas well as all the study of the many other forms of inequality to which the DEI industry has laid claim. Trumps anti-DEI orders have already resulted in a chaotic removal of content from websites and the abrupt termination of funding for scientific research utilizing racial or gender categories.

In other words, in the name of undoing DEI, the Trump administration aims to ban the study of topics of immense importance, without which American society, culture and history cannot be comprehended.

American corporations, which not so long ago were bombarding their workers with DEI initiatives, have taken the cue. In the aftermath of the presidential mandates, numerous major businesses, including Amazon, Target and Walmart, have scrapped their DEI programs. Trump has demanded on his Truth Social account that Apple follow suit.

Meanwhile, many educational institutions are scrambling to rewrite mission statements, remove DEI language from their programming, de-publicize events that could be interpreted as DEI-related, and so forth. The University of Colorado took down its DEI website, for instance, while North Carolinas public higher education system scrapped its requirement that students take DEI-related classes in order to graduate.

College administrators are terrorized by the prospect of losing federal funding, which, while a drop in the bucket compared to the amounts spent by Washington on war-making, sustains myriad programs and services at all levels of instruction. For example, according to Columbia Universitys Community College Research Center, in 2017 these two-year higher education institutions got 18 percent of all their funding from federal resources.

Trumps executive orders and the Dear Colleague letter are being challenged in court by local governments, higher education groups, scholarly associations and teachers unions as violations of free-speech, the boundaries of executive authority and procedures laid out in the Constitution and law. On February 21, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction blocking the Trump administration from canceling or altering federal contracts that it deems equity-related.

The White House claims that the purpose of its anti-DEI campaign is, as its January 20 Executive Order states, serving every person with equal dignity and respect. The letter issued by the Department of Education drapes itself in the language of the civil rights movement and insists it speaks on behalf of those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds and low-income families. Decrying pervasive and repugnant race-based preferences and other forms of racial discrimination, it criticizes the use of crude racial stereotypes and declares segregation by race at graduation ceremonies and in dormitories and other facilities to be a shameful echo of a darker period in this countrys history. All students are entitled to a school environment free from discrimination, it insists.

The letter even tries to present the Trump administration as a defender of historical truth, denouncing educational institutions for having toxically indoctrinated students with the false premise that the United States is built upon systemic and structural racism and teaching students that certain racial groups bear unique moral burdens that others do not.

How is it possible that a fascist president is able to posture as an advocate of racial egalitarianism?

Trumps billionaire acolyte Elon Musk gives Hitler salutes at mass meetings. Among the core of the January 6 rioters who attempted to overturn the 2020 electionjust pardoned by Trumpare white supremacists and open neo-Nazis, with whom the president regularly consorts. Leading figures in his administration and others in the Republican Party promote the virulently antisemitic great replacement theory. The president demands the ethnic cleansing of the Palestinian people. He has previously banned people from Muslim countries from entering the US.

Trumps violent anti-immigrant campaign, mobilizing the most degrading ethnic stereotypes, overwhelmingly targets racial minorities, especially people of Latino background, who form the majority of both legal and illegal immigrants in the US today. In September, the president promoted the false claim that Haitian refugees in a small Ohio town were eating others pets. One could go on.

Above all, Trump is working to carry out a social counter-revolution of unprecedented scale, gutting everything that the working class has securedfrom science to social programsover decades of struggle.

That such an administration is able to present its reactionary policies as being motivated by Americas egalitarian traditions is extraordinary.

The reason Trump is able to do so is not just because he is a liar. Rather, the purveyors of diversity, equity, and inclusion, critical race theory, MeToo politics and the like have made themselves a useful target of attack by the far-right because of the bankruptcy of their essentially reactionary ideology. Denying that the working class as a whole is oppressed and insisting that all whites, especially white men, are privileged, they want not a universal improvement in conditions for the masses, but special allotments for themselves distributed by a capitalist system that they staunchly defend.

Eduardo Bonilla-Silva, for instance, one of the leading advocates of DEI in academia today, has a three-hundred plus page book on the alleged universality of white racism that includes not a single demand for better working conditions, higher wages, more funding for schools, or anything else that would truly improve the situation confronting the bottom half of the population, of all races. It is entirely dedicated to insisting on the virtues and necessity of affirmative action.

Moreover, DEI and its affiliate conceptions have been used at workplaces, educational institutions and civic organizations to witch hunt individuals who are allegedly not members of the oppressed and to stoke racial divisions. Among the most toxic examples of DEI initiatives has been the imposition of racial affinity group housing on college campusesin other words, racial segregation.

DEI has also been in the business of creating lucrative career opportunities for elites of the right categoryuniversity appointments, managerial positions, consulting jobs, etc. Such posts are generally inaccessible not just to whites, but also the vast majority of minorities, who are on the bottom-end of the socioeconomic ladder and have been denied the education and credentials necessary to get such jobs by decades of stagnating wages and cuts to public service.

Storming over white privilege does not put food on the table of a single working family, black or otherwise, nor is it intended to. But for those who gain access to DEIs coffers, there is real money to be made. According to PR Newswire, the global DEI consulting market alone in 2022 was valued at $9.4 billion. Before Trumps election, it was projected to grow to $24.4 billion by 2030.

A critical component of the DEI campaign has been its assault on historical truth, and especially Americas revolutionary traditions. In the DEI worldview, the American Revolution and the Civil War were little more than cunning efforts by whites to establish and maintain structural racism. American society is condemned to an interminable state of white supremacy that requires a never-ending stream of social justice and identity-based initiativesprograms that just so happen to benefit only the most privileged layers of minorities and women.

The New York Times 1619 project, which the WSWS exposed as a pile-up of lies and distortions, was rooted in and sought to advance this outlook. Notwithstanding the absence of a factual basis for the claims it made, the 1619 Project was distributed to schools across the country. The effect of this is not just to sow divisions, but to demoralize the youth. If the US is hopelessly racist, what is the point of fighting for anything?

The Republican Party and Donald Trump tap into the widespread disgust among all sections of the population over DEI and identity politics-led attack on historical truth, the revolutionary traditions of the United States, and workers who happen to be white. The far-right further advances its cause by falsely stating that DEI and its related conceptions are Marxist.

This points to Trumps actual purpose in attacking DEI. The ultimate object is the working class. The rooting out of race talk on the campuses will quickly transform into the suppression of the rights real fear: class talk. This is already evident in the vicious crackdown against anti-Gaza genocide protests on Americas campuses, an assault on freedom of speech fully backed by both capitalist parties.

Over the course of years, the World Socialist Web Site has elaborated the Marxist critique of racialism, critical race theory, DEI, and all its related conceptions. Nothing rivals the WSWS work, which is based on the principle of working class unity and the necessity of casting aside all divisions stoked for centuries by various layers of the ruling class as they work to divide and conquer.

The socialist opposition to DEI is left-wing and animated by the fight for social equality. But this in no way alters socialists implacable opposition to Trump and his fascist promotion of racism.

In this sense, workers must indeed learn to discriminate but on the basis of class, not race. That is, to come to understand that there is an unbridgeable gulf between the working class and the capitalist class and all of its ideologies, and to draw out the necessary conclusions.
LOS ANGELES - A controversial film directed by a Japanese journalist documenting the investigation of her sexual assault case missed out on winning the best documentary feature prize at the U.S. Academy Awards on Sunday.

If "Black Box Diaries" by Shiori Ito had received an Oscar, it would have been the first documentary film by a Japanese creator to win the award.

The film documents the events that led Ito to accuse former TV reporter Noriyuki Yamaguchi of raping her after they dined together in Tokyo in 2015. He denies the allegation.

After Yamaguchi was not indicted due to a lack of evidence, Ito filed a damages suit and wrote a book about her experiences that made her a symbol of Japan's #MeToo movement.

But no decision has been made on whether the film will be screened in Japan following a dispute over the alleged unauthorized use of material, including footage from surveillance cameras at the hotel where she alleges she was raped by Yamaguchi.

Related coverage:

Japan Oscar-nominated film to be reedited amid legal concerns

Japanese long-form documentary film up for Academy Award for 1st time
CHENGDU, March 3 (Xinhua) -- A new low-altitude economy research institute has been launched in Mianyang in southwest China's Sichuan Province, marking a strategic move to drive the development of low-altitude industries in the country's vast western region, according to China Low Altitude Economic Alliance.

The China (Mianyang) Science and Technology City Low-Altitude Economy Research Institute was inaugurated on Sunday. It is jointly established by 14 entities, including Sichuan Jiuzhou Investment Holding Group Co., Ltd., Southwest University of Science and Technology, and leading commercial unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) company JOUAV. The institute aims to foster technological innovation and industry integration in this rapidly emerging sector.

It brings together the strengths of government, industry, academia, research and application in Mianyang, a city known for its strong scientific and technological foundation.

With its solid technological base, comprehensive industrial support and diverse application scenarios, Mianyang is poised to become a leading "city of low altitude" in western China, noted Luo Jun, executive director of the alliance.

Speaking at the institute's launch ceremony, Luo said that Mianyang will join the national low-altitude transportation network pilot program, which aims to integrate drones and air mobility systems into a unified traffic management framework.

The institute's establishment aligns with China's broader strategy to advance the low-altitude economy, encompassing UAVs, urban air mobility, and other emerging sectors.

In his keynote speech, Xiang Jinwu, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, described the low-altitude economy as an important engine for economic transformation and upgrading in the new era.

Mianyang should leverage the institute as a platform to drive innovation, foster industrial clustering, and serve as a demonstration site for low-altitude economy applications.

Moving forward, the institute will focus on key technological breakthroughs and the transformation of research outcomes while striving to become a leading hub for low-altitude economy innovation in western China and beyond. 
BANGKOK, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Relevant departments from China, Myanmar and Thailand recently held a ministerial coordination meeting here on jointly combating transnational telecom fraud crimes. They engaged in in-depth exchanges and reached a series of consensuses on strengthening cooperation.

The meeting highlighted the severe situation posed by transnational telecom fraud crimes, which seriously harm regional economic development and social stability while infringing upon the legitimate rights and interests of citizens of all countries.

Relevant departments in the countries are urged to further deepen international law enforcement cooperation, intensify crackdown efforts, effectively respond to the high incidence of such crimes, minimize the space in which criminal groups can operate, jointly eliminate these criminal networks and resolutely protect the safety and property of their citizens.

The three parties will thoroughly implement the consensus of jointly cracking down on telecom fraud crimes by establishing a regular coordination mechanism, enhancing information sharing, conducting repatriation work and improving the procedures, and continuously increasing their combating efficiency.

Furthermore, the three nations aim to strengthen law enforcement collaboration with other countries to jointly safeguard regional peace and security.

It was revealed that in recent joint law enforcement operations conducted by relevant departments from China, Myanmar and Thailand, over 620 Chinese nationals suspected of telecom fraud were repatriated from Myawaddy, Myanmar. 
After months of hype, campaigning, predictions, pivots, and controversies large and small, the 2025 Oscars finally arrived to provide clarity in what seemed to be the most wide-open awards season in years.

But in the end it was all Anora. Sean Baker's film, about a Brooklyn sex worker who falls for the slacker son of a Russian oligarch, won five Oscars, including Best Picture, Mikey Madison for Best Actress (over presumptive favorite The Substance's Demi Moore), Best Director, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing. Baker accounted for four of those wins  picture, director, original screenplay, and editing  making history in the process.

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Two-time Holocaust survivor Adrien Brody became a two-time Oscar winner, taking Best Actor for his turn as a Hungarian immigrant in The Brutalist. Brody used his acceptance speech to speak out against the charged political climate and attacks on underrepresented communities: "Let's fight for what's right... let's keep loving one another." (In a callback to his first win for The Pianist 22 years ago, Halle Berry turned the tables by planting a kiss on Brody on the red carpet.)

The supporting races went chalk. Kieran Culkin capped a dominating awards run by scoring the Best Supporting Actor statuette for A Real Pain, while Zoe Saldana followed a similar precursor romp with Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Perez, despite controversy surrounding the film. My grandmother came to this country in 1961  I am a proud child of immigrant parents, Saldana proclaimed to resounding applause. With dreams and dignity and hard-working hands, and I am the first American of Dominican origin to accept an Academy Award, and I know I will not be the last.

Conclave, an eight-time nominee considered a contender for Best Picture, finished with a single Oscar, for adapted screenplay. That was better than A Complete Unknown: the Bob Dylan biopic also came in with eight nominations, but was blanked.

I'm Still Here was named Best Internation Feature, winning Brazil's first Oscar, while No Other Land, a Palestian-Israeli collaboration about the occupied West Bank, won Best Documentary Feature.

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In one of the night's few other upsets, the charming Flow captured Best Animated Feature over The Wild Robot  and became the first Oscar winner for Latvia.

Conan O'Brien, in his first stint as Oscar host, kept the night moving along with his patented self-deprecating humor and an musical sandworm from Dune.

Here's the complete list of winners at 97th Academy Awards:

BEST PICTURE

[winner] Anora

The Brutalist

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Dune: Part Two

Emilia Perez

Im Still Here

Nickel Boys

The Substance

Wicked

BEST DIRECTOR

Jacques Audiard, Emilia Perez

[winner] Sean Baker, Anora

Brady Corbet, The Brutalist

Coralie Fargeat, The Substance

James Mangold, A Complete Unknown

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BEST ACTRESS

Cynthia Erivo, Wicked

Karla Sofia Gascon, Emilia Perez

[winner] Mikey Madison, Anora

Demi Moore, The Substance

Fernanda Torres, I'm Still Here

BEST ACTOR

[winner] Adrien Brody, The Brutalist

Timothee Chalamet, A Complete Unknown

Colman Domingo, Sing Sing

Ralph Fiennes, Conclave

Sebastian Stan, The Apprentice

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Monica Barbaro, A Complete Unknown

Ariana Grande, Wicked

Felicity Jones, The Brutalist

Isabella Rossellini, Conclave

[winner] Zoe Saldana, Emilia Perez

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Yura Borisov, Anora

[winner] Kieran Culkin, A Real Pain

Edward Norton, A Complete Unknown

Guy Pearce, The Brutalist

Jeremy Strong, The Apprentice

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BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

A Complete Unknown

[winner] Conclave

Emilia Perez

Nickel Boys

Sing Sing

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

[winner] Anora

The Brutalist

A Real Pain

September 5

The Substance

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE

[winner] Flow

Inside Out 2

Memoir of a Snail

Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl

The Wild Robot

BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE

Black Box Diaries

[winner] No Other Land

Porcelain War

Soundtrack to a Coup d'Etat

Sugarcane

BEST INTERNATIONAL FEATURE

Emilia Perez

Flow

The Girl With the Needle

[winner] I'm Still Here

The Seed of the Sacred Fig

BEST ANIMATED SHORT

Beautiful Men

[winner] In the Shadow of the Cypress

Magic Candies

Wander to Wonder

Yuck!

BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT

Death by Numbers

I Am Ready, Warden

Incident

Instruments of a Beating Heart

[winner] The Only Girl in the Orchestra

BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT

A Lien

Anuja

[winner] Im Not a Robot

The Last Ranger

The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent

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BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

[winner] The Brutalist

Dune: Part Two

Emilia Perez

Maria

Nosferatu

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

A Complete Unknown

Conclave

Gladiator II

Nosferatu

[winner] Wicked

BEST FILM EDITING

[winner] Anora

The Brutalist

Conclave

Emilia Perez

Wicked

BEST MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING

A Different Man

Emilia Perez

Nosferatu

[winner] The Substance

Wicked

BEST PRODUCTION DESIGN

The Brutalist

Conclave

Dune: Part Two

Nosferatu

[winner] Wicked



BEST SCORE

[winner] The Brutalist

Conclave

Emilia Perez

Wicked

The Wild Robot

BEST SONG

[winner] "El Mal," from Emilia Perez

"The Journey," from The Six Triple Eight

"Like a Bird," from Sing Sing

"Mi Camino," from Emilia Perez

Never Too Late, from Elton John: Never Too Late

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BEST SOUND

A Complete Unknown

[winner] Dune: Part Two

Emilia Perez

Wicked

The Wild Robot

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

Alien: Romulus

Better Man

[winner] Dune: Part Two

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Wicked

Best of GoldDerby

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Jessica Biel turned 43 years old on Monday (March 3), and to celebrate, her husband Justin Timberlake took to Instagram to share a heartfelt post about the actress.

Happy Birthday to my rock. My best friend. My favorite. My GOAT. To the one that believes in me when I dont believe in myself The one that makes me laugh like nobody else can. To the one that showed me a real love, he wrote alongside a video of the duo hugging and swaying back and forth, soundtracked by Timberlakes Mirrors, famously written about Biel. I adore you, my heart. Heres to many, many more!!! Happy Jess Day!!!!

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Timberlake and Biel began dating in 2007 and were married on Oct. 19, 2012, in Fasano, Italy. They have two sons together, nine-year-old Silas and four-year-old Phineas.

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The *NSYNC star is currently on his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, in support Timberlakes sixth solo album, Everything I Thought It Was, which features his moody R&B single, Selfish. The new album  Timberlakes follow-up to his earthy 2018 Man of the Woods LP  was released in March 2024.

He wrapped the North American leg of the tour last week  though the final show was canceled due to Timberlake battling the flu. However, the run is scheduled to pick back up again in April, where hes set to perform in Mexico. In June, he flies over to Europe for a string of dates, kicking off in Milan, Italy, on June 2 and wrapping up in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, on July 8. Tickets are available for purchase here.

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Daylight saving time is this weekend, and it's time to start preparing for the moment we spring forward in the United States.

Kroger is offering a limited run of free Kroger Hour Back Boxes on Tuesday and issuing even more free breakfast food on Friday to help customers get ready for Daylight Saving Time.

Here's what to know from when DST starts and ends to why it exists and if President Donald Trump is ending daylight saving time.

When does the Daylight Saving Time change 2025 occur in U.S.?

Participating states turn clocks forward an hour on the second Sunday in March during the spring. Daylight Saving Time ends on the first Sunday of November in the fall of each year and that's when states turn clocks back an hour.

When does time change spring forward for DST 2025?

In the U.S., clocks will officially spring forward at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 9, 2025.

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Countdown Timer

What are Kroger Hour Back Boxes? How to get one before Daylight Saving Time starts

Kroger is giving away a limited run of Kroger Hour Back Boxes while supplies last starting at noon ET Tuesday, March 4. and will begin issuing free breakfast food items while supplies last at noon Friday, March 7, 2025.

Each limited-edition box Kroger Hour Back Box is stocked with Our Brands breakfast essentials, including Private Selection Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate, Simple Truth Oatmilk Creamer and Kroger Frozen Breakfast Sandwiches. Boxes will also include a Boost gift card redeemable for one year of a Kroger Boost membership ($59 value).

Customers can visit Kroger.com/HourBack on Tuesday, March 4 to claim an exclusive box, while supplies last. If customers return to the website on Friday, March 7, Kroger will give away 39,000 Our Brands breakfast items. Customers will need to download a limited-time, single-use digital coupon.

Do I gain or lose an hour of sleep for Daylight Savings Time at 2 a.m. March 9, 2025?

We lose an hour of sleep when the clocks "spring forward" and are turned ahead at 2 a.m. for one hour when Daylight Saving Time begins.

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In the fall when DST ends, clocks "fall back" an hour in November. That is when people gain an hour of sleep.

When does Daylight Savings 2025's time change fall back?

Clocks fall back on Sunday, Nov. 2, in 2025.

Is Donald Trump going to end Daylight Savings Time in 2025?

President Donald Trump did not set a date but declared through social media platform Truth Social that he would eliminate Daylight Saving Time  which would also require approval from Congress:

"The Republican Party will use its best efforts to eliminate Daylight Saving Time, which has a small but strong constituency, but shouldnt! Daylight Saving Time is inconvenient, and very costly to our Nation."

Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump)

Donald Trump on time change: Says he will push to end Daylight Saving Time

Why does Daylight Saving Time change at 2 a.m.?

In an interview with Time Magazine, author Michael Downing cited his book, "Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time," to explain how Amtrak and the railroads were the main reason clocks change at 2 a.m. for DST.

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There were no trains leaving the station at 2 a.m. on Sundays in New York City when Daylight Saving Time was established.

"Sunday morning at 2 a.m. was when they would interrupt the least amount of train travel around the country, Downing said.

Which U.S. states don't change clocks for Daylight Saving Time?

As of July 25, 2022, the U.S. Department of Transportation noted that only Hawaii and parts of Arizona do not participate in daylight saving time. The Navajo Nation is the lone exception in Arizona.

The territories of American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands also do not participate.

According to the website, states may exempt themselves from observing daylight saving time by state law in accordance with the Uniform Time Act, as amended.

What to know about daylight saving time.

What is daylight saving time saving? Hint: it may not actually be time or money

What time is it in Louisville?

Visit timeanddate.com to see the current time in Louisville.

Daylight Savings Time and time change in Kentucky

Kentucky first observed daylight saving time in 1918, when the Standard Time Act established daylight saving time to conserve electricity during World War I. After the war was over, daylight saving was no longer national law and became a local option.

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Between 1918 and today, Kentucky observed daylight saving time for 75 years, according to timeanddate.com. For a while, cities across Kentucky were inconsistent, with some observing the time change and others not.

But starting in 1970, Time and Date AS has tracked observance of daylight saving time in Kentucky every year.

Over the years, researchers have tried to tie your body getting an hour less of sleep that night to a variety of issues, including an increase in car crashes and health problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

In 2019, Kentucky Republican Reps. Bart Rowland of Tompkinsville and Brandon Reed of Hodgenville pre-filed a bill to do away with resetting clocks every six months and instead use daylight saving time all year long. To do so, however, requires authorization by the federal government.

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Under federal law, states are allowed not to observe daylight saving time, with Arizona and Hawaii being the lone states to do so. States are not allowed to stay on daylight time throughout the year.

Why does daylight saving time exist?: Unpacking the century-long beef over DST

What is the Sunshine Protection Act?

The Sunshine Protection Act of 2021, which was created to make daylight saving time the new, permanent standard time, was unanimously passed by the U.S. Senate in 2022 but it was not passed by the U.S. House of Representatives.

There is currently no news on when it will be readdressed and then signed into law.

When is the U.S. getting rid of daylight savings time? When will DST end permanently?

Despite the Sunshine Protection Act being unanimously approved by the U.S. Senate in 2022, there is no permanent end in sight.

Did Daylight Saving Time start because of farmers?

No, according to almanac.com.

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"Many Americans wrongly point to farmers as the driving force behind Daylight Saving Time. In fact, farmers were its strongest opponents and, as a group, stubbornly resisted the change from the beginning," Catherine Boeckmann wrote for almanac.com.

"When the war ended, the farmers and working-class people who had held their tongues began speaking out. They demanded an end to Daylight Saving Time, claiming it benefited only office workers and the leisure class. The controversy spotlighted the growing gap between rural and urban dwellers."

When does 2025 daylight saving time spring forward start, DST fall back end?

Daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 9, and ends on Nov. 2 in 2025.

Chris Sims is a digital content producer for Midwest Connect Gannett. Follow him on Twitter: @ChrisFSims.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Daylight Savings 2025: When time change springs forward, free Kroger DST food
The third annual Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Young Woman Awards hosted by Holy Angels and sponsored by Red River Bank and the Shreveport Times is almost here and the six honorees have been carefully selected.

The Most Influential Young Woman nominations will go to those who are high school juniors or seniors whose leadership, poise and determination are demonstrated through meaningful acts of philanthropy for their fellow students or community.

Get to know Olivia Ostendorff below before the awards ceremony March 6.

Olivia Ostendorff

Olivia Ostendorff is a 2025 Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Young Woman Award nominee.

Olivia Ostendorff is a senior at Loyola College Prep and is an active member in her community and school. Ostendorff said, "community service, to me, means doing what I can to better the place around me."

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Ostendorff does volunteer work with Community Renewal Friendship House, Advisory Council Member of the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council, Teen Advisory Committee (TAC) and plays guitar and sings for worship Sunday mornings at both First Baptist Church Shreveport and First Methodist Church Shreveport.

"The first day I volunteered at a Community Renewal I fell in love. Ive always wanted to help others find their place, and Community Renewals mission resonated with me. By simply getting to know our neighbors, we can connect neighborhoods and restore communities to combat divisiveness that is so prevalent," said Ostendorff.

Ostendorff said if you want to get involved in your community, start small. She said, "a rising tide lifts all ships, or in other words big things have small beginnings."

She has also received numerous accolades, including Louisiana Girls State Governor, Freshman, Junior, and Senior Class President, Business Club Co-Chair, Cheer Captain, Student of the Year Finalist, Presidential Service Award, AP Scholar with Honor and A-Honor Roll (9th-12th grades).

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"By listening and reserving judgment, our community can be a place where people are quick to listen and slow to speak. Connecting with our community on deeper levels can solve our most divisive issues," said Ostendorff.

The 2025 Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Woman and Most Influential Young Woman Award luncheon March 6, 2025, at East Ridge Country Club.

To purchase tickets or tables visit https://www.laholyangels.org/events/most-influential-woman/

Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com.

Olivia Ostendorff is a 2025 Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Young Woman Award nominee.

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Meet Olivia Ostendorff a Virginia K. Shehee Most Influential Young Woman 2025 Honoree
Mar. 2MANKATO  Mount Carroll resident Olivia Shelly recently was named to Minnesota State University, Mankato honor's list for the fall semester.

The university named 3,050 students to the honor's list and 1,354 students to its high honor's list.

Students named to the honor list received a semester GPA of 3.5 to 3.9. The students also must have received at least 12 semester credit hours.

For information, visit mankato.mnsu.edu/academics.
TEHRAN, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei described on Monday the recent remarks by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan as "unconstructive" while emphasizing the significance of Tehran-Ankara relations.

Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Baghaei responded to Fidan's comments in an interview with Al Jazeera Arabic on Wednesday, where the Turkish minister criticized Iran's regional policies, particularly its reliance on militias in Syria and Iraq.

Fidan argued that while Iran had made some gains, its approach imposed a long-term burden on both the region and Iran's establishment, urging Tehran to reconsider its strategy.

Baghaei said Fidan's remarks were "frequently repeated" and "unconstructive." He also cited Israel's growing assertiveness in the region, particularly in Syria, and called on Turkish authorities to think more about the outcomes and impacts of their policies.

On bilateral ties, Baghaei said relations with Ankara were of "very great importance" to Tehran.

He noted that although the two countries had differences over several regional issues, they had managed to preserve "good ties" by adopting "wise approaches and showing rational behaviors."

In a post on social media platform X on Friday, Baghaei called Fidan to refrain from making the "mistake of failing to see the covert and overt hands of the United States and Israel behind the scenes of the regional developments."

He also reminded the Turkish foreign minister of Israel's large-scale attacks against Syria's military facilities and infrastructure following the collapse of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government and its frequent violations of the Arab state's national sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
JetBlue flight 1791 leaves Bostons Logan Airport at 7:15 am and arrives at Tampa International Airport three hours and fourteen minutes later. Air temperature in Boston, 24 degrees. Flying at an altitude of 38,000 feet and an average speed of 500 mph, total distance of flight, 1,323 miles. Window seat 6A on the left side of the plane gave a nice view of the Boston area, but gathering storm clouds soon blocked the scenery. Broken clouds over northern Florida provided more scenery until landing. Tampa temperature 84 degrees. Spending three hours to retrieve 60 degrees in February, going from winter to summer is a good travel deal.

Photographer Julieanne Kost published a book called, Window Seat, a collection of her images taken through the plane window. She prefaces the book, I think its ironic that the video screens on newer planes are almost the same size as the windows, and that so many people prefer to watch the packaged predictable content on the screen rather than marvel at whats outside their windows.

Whenever I travel on public transportation, I always try to get a window view, even on the bus ride from Hyannis to Logan.

View out the port side window aboard the Massachusetts Maritime Academy's new training ship Patriot State looking west about 100 miles off the coast of New Jersey. Photo on February 21, 2025.

My Tampa flight was a one-way ticket. Return transportation was on the Massachusetts Maritime Academys new 525-foot-long training ship Patriot State. It departed Tampa Bay on Monday, Feb. 17 at 8:30 a.m. arriving back at the schools Buzzards Bay campus on Saturday Feb. 23 at 5:30 after a transit through the Cape Cod Canal. The return trip headed south along the west coast of Florida down past the Keys, then into the Straits of Florida and the North Atlantic. Heavy weather off Cape Hatteras gave the new ship a workout. The ships speed varied, pushed along by the Gulf Stream it was making 20 knots, other times traveling at 8. The conversion is one knot equals 1.151 miles per hour, if you enjoy math.

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Whoever said, the sky is for speed, the sea is for serenity, knew what they were talking about. The only bliss on the jet trip was looking out the window. Aboard ship, life slowed down. Two windows in my portside cabin provided non-stop viewing for six days. Rainstorms, sunshine, raging seas and morning sea fog, all right outside, 24/7.

The urge to rush was gradually replaced by reality, returning home was measured not in hours but in days, changes in latitude, not altitude. Driving home up Route 6 from the ship, even 55 mph seemed too fast. Its good occasionally to slow way down and take in the long view.

This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Cape Cod Times Photo Shoot: View from the Patriot State portside cabin
According to the S.C. Education Oversight Committee, up to 1,000 students enrolled in the K-12 scholarship program were deemed ineligible after parents received their first payment. (Stock photo by FG Trade via Getty Images)

COLUMBIA  As many as 1,000 K-12 students may have received taxpayer-supported scholarship money for school-related expenses before being found ineligible for the program, a state oversight agency found.

Between 868 and 1,000 students were removed from the states voucher program after $1,500 was deposited in their parents accounts last July, according to estimates the Education Oversight Committee provided to the SC Daily Gazette.

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That was the first of four equal installments for the programs inaugural year.

The state House passed a bill Wednesday meant to revive payments for private K-12 tuition, which the state Supreme Court halted last September when it declared part of the 2023 law unconstitutional.

The Senate, which passed its own plan last month, will need to decide whether to accept the Houses changes and send the bill on to Gov. Henry McMasters desk or insist on its version. That would send negotiations to a House-Senate panel to try to agree on a compromise.

This first year of the program was limited to 5,000 Medicaid-eligible students who had to transfer from their local public school to a private school or to a different school district. The exception to the transfer rule were students entering kindergarten. The law specifies the money cant be used for homeschooling.

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Nearly 8,000 students applied, but the Department of Education denied all but 2,880. Late applications, parents making too much money to qualify, and students being too old or too young were some of the reasons the department provided for denying applications.

Of those who were accepted, 1,845 students had spent at least some of their allotment by mid-January, collectively totaling $3.1 million, according to data the department provided to the Gazette on Wednesday. That accounted for less than half of the $6.6 million the department had distributed by then. The third installment of $1,500 was due to families by Jan. 31.

On Friday, the department said some parents didnt spend any of their allotment while their children were actively enrolled in the program, so the total number of accounts was greater than 1,845. It declined to say how many.

The agency also declined to say how many students were found ineligible after payments went out, saying that information will be provided in a report at the end of the school year.

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As per state law, the first payment went to families before the beginning of the school year.

Department officials checked in 45 days later to verify that students had transferred schools as required. That September enrollment check aligns with the first student count in public schools, which verifies per-pupil state and federal funding. The department then quarterly checks where scholarship students are enrolled, ahead of the next installment, spokesman Jason Raven said in an email Friday.

According to the agency, parents had to sign statements that they understood the rules of the program and went through training on how their children would remain eligible for payments.

Survey responses

However, many parents said in a survey conducted in October by the Education Oversight Committee that they didnt know their children had to transfer schools to be eligible for the money. Some thought they could stay in their home public school and use the money for the programs allowed expenses other than tuition, such as tutoring and computers, according to the independent education agency.

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After an application was submitted, reviewed and accepted, months later we get a response that my child technically wasnt eligible and that his account was deactivated, wrote one of the 243 parents who responded.

That likely made parents more frustrated than not getting the money in the first place, the oversight agency said in a report presented to a subcommittee of its board in January.

Part of the problem probably came down to first-year kinks, the report said.

The next year of implementation will likely bring improvements made from lessons learned and experience implementing the program, the report reads.

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Some parents with accounts that received money told the Education Oversight Committee their children were homeschooled. Other students were already attending a private school last year. One student was attending a school in a different state. Another was using the money for college, according to the responses. Those students should have been disqualified from ever enrolling.

That suggests the department was not paying close attention to where the money was going, said Sherry Easy, president of the South Carolina Education Association.

Our concern is this is the first of many unauthorized spendings that will happen, East said.

Homeschooling

Once the funds were distributed, the state had little way to be sure parents were spending the money appropriately, the oversight committees report found.

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For example, several parents responding to the survey said they had used the money to homeschool their child, despite the law saying thats illegal.

The agreement signed by parents last year included a pledge to not homeschool their child. If the department discovers a parent violated the agreement, the state deactivates their account. The student can no longer be in the program, Raven said in a statement.

In the statute, it says no, you may not use this for homeschool, Jenny May, a researcher for the oversight agency, told its academic standards subcommittee. However, you can purchase curriculum, examinations, things of that nature, and theres not currently an existing oversight to see if you are homeschooling.

Several parents said that was what they did with the money, according to the report.

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The money has made it possible for me to home educate my children, one parent wrote.

Raven, the education spokesman, said the state did not approve any homeschooling options for scholarship money.

Legislators banned homeschooling as allowable uses of the money because thats what homeschooling parents said they wanted.

Last year, the House considered lifting the ban on homeschooling as part of a bill expanding the scholarship program. But as the bill advanced through the House committee process, a group of homeschooling parents fought back. They equated getting state aid with the state being able to tell them what to do, including on testing requirements. (That bill passed the House but never got a vote in the Senate.)

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Both the House and Senate versions of this years legislation that aims to reinstate private K-12 tuition payments would maintain the ban on homeschooling.

But some of the curriculum approved in the online portal for parents to buy is advertised for use in homeschooling.

Under the law, parents would be able to use the money to buy the lesson plans in order to supplement their schooling elsewhere, but no one seems to be making sure thats the case, said May, the oversight agencys researcher.

The South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools fielded calls from some of its 1,300 members who were frustrated and upset over not being able to use the money, said Katina Prescott, the associations administrative director. Many dont understand how the money is meant to be used, she said.

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There is a lot of confusion about this, Prescott said. A lot of people need help and support but also want to be legally homeschooling.

Raven said parents may be using the term homeschooling loosely. Maybe their children were taking virtual classes, and they attend with a computer from home, he said.

Palmetto Promise Institute, a conservative think tank thats advocated for the program for years, didnt see anything wrong with parents using the money to educate their children at home.

They may be sending their child to a school part-time, while completing their education with online classes and curriculum purchased through the program. That wouldnt officially count as homeschooling under state law, according to the think tank that helped write the 2023 law.

We dont see why a parent could not use some of the qualifying expenses to craft an educational program for their child that would be conducted primarily at home, the institute said in a statement.

As the program goes into its second year, the state needs better oversight of where the money is going, said Rep. Terry Alexander, a member of the subcommittee that reviewed the report.

If were giving out that money, we need to know how its being spent, the Florence Democrat said.
Federal agents have arrested a man they said is wanted in his home country for murder.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

A Homeland Security spokesperson provided News Center 7 with the following statement:

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement alongside federal partners from the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Border Patrol executed a federal arrest warrant for an illegally present El Salvadoran national, who is wanted in his home country on murder charges, in the New Lebanon, Ohio area March 3, 2025.

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New Lebanon Police Department said the investigation happened in the 200 block of Perry Street.

Agents did not identify the man but said he is in federal custody pending additional charges.

We will continue to follow this story.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Two people were seriously injured after a motorcycle crash early Monday morning, March 3, on the U.S. 54 South ramp to Interstate 10 West in Central El Paso.

El Paso Police say the crash happened just before 1 a.m. on the U.S. 54 South ramp to I-10 West. All lanes were closed for several hours. However, all lanes opened up at around 6 a.m. Monday.

Police say a female was seriously injured in the crash. They did not specify the females age.

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The El Paso Fire Department confirmed another person was transported with serious injuries.

The Special Traffic Investigations (STI) unit was at the scene.

No further information has been released.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
(WJW)  A shark that researchers have been tracking for just a few months has been reported off the North Carolina coast.

The tracking system provided by the non-profit OCEARCH shows the female tiger shark named Kando pinged at about 4:32 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, off the coast of Duck. According to OCEARCH, a ping is reported whenever an animals tag breaks the surface of the water.

Kroger giving out free Hour Back Box for Daylight Saving Time

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OCEARCH reports Kando is 10 feet long and weighs more than 400 pounds. She was first tagged Jan. 13 near the Florida-Georgia border.

OCEARCH is a non-profit that helps conduct research and provide education and outreach. When it comes to sharks, they encourage facts over fear.

Cat food recall due to bird flu risk

In a recent video reel posted to social media, OCEARCH said, Tiger sharks are the ultimate ocean scavengers, eating just about anything they come across  including some shocking man-made objects! From license plates to tires, scientists have discovered all kinds of human litter inside tiger shark stomachs. These apex predators play a vital role in maintaining ocean health, but our waste is ending up where it doesnt belong  inside them. Lets do better for our sharks and our seas! Reduce plastic, dispose of trash properly and keep our oceans clean.

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You can learn more about OCEARCH and their work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
CAMERON, N.C. (WNCN)  A wildfire in Harnett County grew from 30 to 100 acres and destroyed a building before dozens of fire departments managed to finally contain it Sunday.

Crews from the North Carolina Forest Service along with many fire departments from across Harnett and Moore counties fought the fire for nearly 27 hours.

The blaze, in which no one was injured, was called the Lizzie Jeter Road fire, which was where it first began in far southwest Harnett County.

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While some smoke and visible flames may still be present within the containment area, the fire is fully contained, Cypress Pointe Fire/Rescue, the lead agency, said Sunday evening.

Crews battle wildfires in North and South Carolina amid dry conditions and gusty winds

The fire initially threatened several homes Saturday afternoon and destroyed several cars in the Lizzie Jeter Road area off N.C. 27 about two miles southeast of Cameron.

Firefighters prioritized structure protection while working to extinguish the burning vehicles and slow the wildfires spread, Cypress Pointe Fire/Rescue said.

Forestry plows from Fort Bragg and the North Carolina Forest Service were deployed.

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Fire crews were at the scene overnight Saturday into Sunday in heavily wooded and swampy terrain, which made access difficult.

The initial response was Cypress Pointe, Crains Creek Fire Department, Spout Springs Fire Department, and the North Carolina Forest Service from Harnett County

The N.C. Forest Service had a plane up to help guide crews for an attack on the fire.

Later crews were deployed from Carthage Fire Department, Lemon Springs Fire Department, Southern Pines Fire Department, Fort Bragg Fire Department, and Eastwood Fire Department.

We urge everyone to remain vigilant and refrain from any outdoor burning until significant rainfall occurs, officials said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
HOPE, Ark. (KTAL/KMSS)  Would you like to be a Licensed Practical Nurse? If so, you can earn your practical nursing certificate in less than a year through a university in Texarkana and Hope, Arkansas.

The University of Arkansas Hope/Texarkanas Hope campus invites prospective students to apply for admission to the LPN program. Applications must be turned in by May 1 at 4:30 p.m.

The 11-month program, which has a selective admission process, prepares students for licensure and meets all requirements for accreditation through the Arkansas State Board of Nursing.

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Applicants who are accepted into the program will begin classes on May 31.

Call (870) 722-8289 for more information about majors and certifications available through the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana Health Professions Department.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
HARRODSBURG, Ky. (FOX 56)  An 11-year-old boy died Friday evening after an ATV accident in Harrodsburg.

According to the Fayette County Coroners Office, Benton Lester, 11, suffered blunt trauma injuries to the head and torso in the accident at the 5000 block of Deep Reed Road.

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The coroners report showed that he was taken to the University of Kentucky Medical Center, where he was declared dead at 7:31 p.m.

The accident is under investigation by the Washington County Sheriffs Office.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ... safe ice cream! Ice cream is supposed to bring joy, but manufacturing America's favorite frozen treat poses several challenges. From bacterial contamination to labeling mishaps, recalls have swept through the industry, affecting manufacturers large and small.

In approximately the last decade, 12 major recalls shone a light on the way ice cream desserts are produced. Behind each recall lies a detective story of routine testing, facility inspections, and the relentless hunt for the source of contamination. In some cases, the culprit was found in seemingly innocent places: a filling machine spout, condensation dripping from pipes, or residue on improperly cleaned equipment.

To respond to these recalls, some companies revamped their sanitation protocols, upgraded equipment, and implemented more rigorous testing procedures. Sometimes, these changes came at a considerable cost; some manufacturers had to destroy hundreds of tons of product, while others temporarily shuttered their facilities for extensive renovations. Yet these measures ultimately strengthened an industry that today produces around 1.3 billion gallons of ice cream annually, ensuring that this cherished dessert remains both delicious and safe for generations to come. Read on to learn more about some of the most major ice cream recalls, what caused them, and what products were affected.

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Read more: 6 Of The Worst Things To Order At Subway, According To Employees

In 2013, Turkey Hill Recalled Three Flavors Over Concerns That Metal Shavings Were In Its Products

four containers of Turkey Hill ice cream - Billy F Blume Jr/Shutterstock

In September 2013, a Turkey Hill Dairy facility in Pennsylvania issued an ice cream recall. Turkey Hill Dairy, at the time a subsidiary of Kroger, is based in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where its main production facility is located. Although it distributes ice cream nationally through Kroger and Walmart, it is also a staple in small grocers and convenience stores in Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania.

The voluntary recall was enacted due to metal shavings, which the brand thought could have accidentally made their way into some of its ice cream products. The recall involved 1  quart cartons of Fudge Ripple Ice Cream, along with pint-sized cartons of Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Premium Ice Cream and Moose Tracks Stuff'd Frozen Dairy Dessert.

While there is no information about how this potential safety issue was assessed, it's clear that metal shavings don't belong in ice cream, since they are sharp and can cause internal damage. The ice cream had been distributed to Walmart locations and small retailers in just a few states, and retailers and consumers were advised to dispose of the product. But, thanks to their precautions, there were no reports of foreign objects being found, and no one appeared to become ill in connection with this recall.

Haagen-Dazs Recalled Some Items In 2014 Due To Product Labeling Errors

some Haagen-Dazs containers piled up in a freezer - Norjipin Saidi/Shutterstock

In June 2014, a silly little packaging mishap at a Nestle facility led to a multi-state recall impacting much of the eastern United States. The brand affected was Haagen-Dazs, a premium ice cream brand owned by Nestle. It seemed that cartons labeled as Haagen-Dazs Chocolate Chocolate Chip Ice Cream were filled with Haagen-Dazs Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream. To make matters even more confusing, the cartons were topped with a Chocolate Peanut Butter lid. Around 10,000 cartons of mislabeled ice cream were sent out to grocery stores in Washington D.C., Delaware, Florida, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia. Whoopsie.

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The issue was first reported by a concerned consumer. Since the carton contained incorrect nutritional information, the package failed to declare the contents as containing a major allergen: Peanuts. For those with a peanut allergy, accidental ingestion can be life-threatening. Because of this, Nestle issued a recall and advised consumers with peanut allergies not to consume the mislabeled product.

In 2015, A Massive Listeria Outbreak Affected Blue Bell Creamery

several stacked cartons of Blue Bell ice cream - Alizada Studios/Shutterstock

Allergens are a well-known risk in food manufacturing, but bacterial contamination is a much different, and more invisible, beast. In what would turn out to be a string of outbreaks, Blue Bell Creamery's facilities were found to be contaminated with listeria, a result of poor cleaning and maintenance. Listeria is quite a pesky pathogen. It's a hardy little germ that spreads in food, and since heating it is the best way to destroy it, ice cream is a particularly easy way for listeria to spread.

Despite only being available in a portion of the nation's supermarkets (just 23 states) Blue Bell ranks as one of the best-selling ice creams in the country. However, if you want to know what not to do in the case of a food recall, Blue Bell's company President Paul Kruse was a stunning example. When notified in February 2015 by Texas state officials that two of its ice cream products had tested positive for the dangerous pathogen, Kruse orchestrated attempts to quietly remove the product from shelves in retail establishments without alerting the stores or consumers.

But when five patients in Kansas came down with the same strain of listeriosis, the severe illness caused by ingestion of listeria-contaminated food, Blue Bell finally announced a public recall. Reports of listeriosis also popped up in Arizona, Oklahoma, and Texas. Then, three of the five patients in Kansas died. This was serious.

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Testing at production facilities uncovered contamination at a second facility in Oklahoma and by March 23, 2015, Blue Bell expanded the initial recall to include every product it produced. Every plant was closed for cleaning and testing, and ultimately, the lawsuit brought against the company resulted in a total of $19.35 million dollars in fines (the second largest payout on record on the matter of food safety at the time). By the time Blue Bell reopened its facilities late that year, it had undergone some significant changes to sanitation processes and testing procedures.

That Same Year, More Listeria Was Found At A Jeni's Ice Cream Facility

several pint containers of Jeni's ice cream in different flavors - ChicagoPhotographer/Shutterstock

On March 26, 2015, just three days after Blue Bell issued its expanded recall, routine testing by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found listeria at a Jeni's Ice Cream facility. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, an Ohio-based company, had scoop shops in three major cities and distributed to over 700 locations around the time of the recall. In contrast to the reaction from Blue Bell, Jeni's swiftly issued a recall of its entire product line, even closing its retail scoop shops until safety could be ensured.

In this case, inspectors reported a basic lack of understanding when it came to proper sanitation procedures for food manufacturing. All in all, 11 issues were identified at the Columbus facility, including things like wiping food contact surfaces without sanitizer and not knowing that floor sanitation procedures were necessary. That's a problem because, while listeria spreads on food, it can also live in soil and dirt. Jeni's responded by not only closing and cleaning its facility for weeks, but by spending over $200,000 in upgrades to re-engineer the facility with food safety in mind. Thanks to its efforts and swift compliance, no sickness or death was reported in connection with this recall.

Working Cow's Sugar-Free Ice Creams Were Found To Contain Listeria In 2018, Prompting A Recall

Working Cow ice cream sign outside Florida business with rainbow - Suuu.b/Shutterstock

Working Cow has been operating since 1993 and is known for partnering with local dairies to source ingredients for its ice cream. In 2018, Working Cow Homemade Ice Cream -- an ice cream manufacturer in Southern Florida -- issued a voluntary recall.

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That October, two of its products were officially recalled because of a potential listeria contamination. Listeria was found to be present in the manufacturing environment during a routine test. Then, when a sick consumer in Florida ended up being linked to that strain, the recall was issued. The company's No Sugar Added Vanilla and No Sugar Added Chocolate ice cream tubs were removed from restaurants and independent living facilities in the South Florida region.

All told, Working Cow had 152 retail customers affected by the recall. The manufacturing facility closed, while further testing took place to identify the source of contamination. In the end, Working Cow Homemade chose to pivot, and rely on ice cream made by a third party. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the proposed pivot and lifted their suspension in February 2019.

In 2019, Blue Bell Issued Another Recall When Foreign Objects Were Discovered In Its Ice Cream

Blue Bell ice cream delivery truck viewed in profile - Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Let's not forget there is more than one threat when it comes to food safety. There's foreign object contamination, which occurs when non-food items (like metal shavings or others) make their way into the packaged product. No one wanted to see Blue Bell's name in the news again, and yet, in 2019, an entire batch of its Butter Crunch ice cream had to be recalled when a plastic object was found in one half-gallon tub of the ice cream. Apparently, the piece of plastic was part of a broken tool that made it into the product during manufacturing.

Blue Bell Creameries issued a voluntary recall for the entire day's production, which meant recalling half gallons of Butter Crunch Ice cream that had been distributed to parts of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Products were removed from shelves quickly, and no injuries were reported during this particular incident, proving that Blue Bell was, in fact, taking health and safety issues seriously this time.

Later That Year, A Rogue Nut Prompted A Ben & Jerry's Recall

Ben & Jerry's sign outside a retail store for the chain - Enchantedfairy/Getty Images

Ice cream makers Ben & Jerry have always been a little nutty. As a company that started at a gas station in the '70s, they've come a long way. But in April 2019, when an undeclared tree nut was found during a production operation at Ben & Jerry's facilities in Vermont, things got serious. While finding a nut doesn't immediately set off alarm bells, the flavors being produced -- Coconut Seven Layer Bar and Chunky Monkey -- only bore warnings about containing walnuts. Yes, the label included a broad warning that the flavors may contain tree nuts, but with an allergy as severe as tree nuts, which can prove life-threatening, Ben & Jerry's moved swiftly to recall the affected product.

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Pints of the recalled Chunky Monkey Ice Cream had been distributed nationwide into retail stores, while 2.4-gallon bulk tubs of Coconut Seven Layer Bar Ice Cream were disturbed nationwide through wholesale and scoop shops. Unilever, the parent company of Ben & Jerry's, conducted an investigation and determined that the error was due to an issue with one of its nut suppliers. The issue was resolved, and there were no reported illnesses.

In 2021, Nestle Recalled 46 Varieties Of Ice Cream Over A Carcinogen Contamination

Nestle building with name and logo on the outside - HJBC/Shutterstock

So far, ice cream produced in the U.S. has been the focus of all of these recalls. Food safety, however, is an issue of international concern. Nestle, a giant conglomerate that forms the world's largest food and beverage company, has production partners all over the world. In Spain, one of these partners, Froneri, ended up in hot water in July 2021, when it was determined that over 46 product lines were accidentally contaminated with a potential carcinogen. It turns out an additive used as a stabilizer contained trace amounts of ethylene oxide, a banned chemical known to cause cancer. This contamination affected ice cream varieties under the Nestle name brand, including Mars, Toblerone, Oreo, and more.

Consumers were urged to discard the product or return it to the retailer for a full refund, while also being assured that the amount of ethylene oxide in the product would be limited to amounts unlikely to cause harm. Because of the sheer number of products that were affected, Nestle created a website to help consumers determine if the product they purchased was affected and should be disposed of. Thankfully, no illnesses were reported in connection with this recall.

Baskin Robbins And Other Brands Conducted A Recall In 2022 Due To Foreign Object Contamination

Baskin Robbins interior with ice cream counter - Tang Yan Song/Shutterstock

The following year, the Quebec-based Agropur Cooperative issued a recall for ice cream produced under various brand names, including the well-known Baskin-Robbins. The April 2022 recall spanned four brands, and 13 flavors of ice cream, that had been supplied to restaurants, hotel chains, and retail institutions. The cause of concern was potential contamination from pieces of metal and plastic. Since ingesting metal or plastic can cause choking, cuts, and infection and may even require surgery to remove, the risk of harm from foreign object contamination is very real.

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Quarts of Baskin Robbins Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream, Chocolate Mousse Royale Ice Cream, Pralines 'N Cream Ice Cream, and Vanilla Ice Cream, as well as 3-gallon bulk tubs of Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream made their way to retail shops across Canada, only to be recalled along with several flavors under the labels President's Choice, Best Buy, and Scotsburn Joins Farmers.

These products were deemed a hazard thanks to the potential harm that could result from ingesting metal and plastic pieces. However, Agropur reported no illness or injury in relation to the recalled ice cream flavors.

In 2023, Containers Of Moose Tracks Ice Cream Were Recalled Over Undeclared Egg Allergens

Weis Markets store exterior view with parking lot - TY Lim/Shutterstock

Weis Markets, a grocery chain based out of Sunbury, Pennsylvania, that serves Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, New York, Delaware, and West Virginia, issued a recall in August 2023 for its Brownie Moose Tracks Ice Cream. It seems that the product was mistakenly processed on equipment shared with a product that contained eggs. Since the moose tracks flavor did not contain eggs, cross contamination could then occur. Eggs, like peanuts and tree nuts, are a common allergen, and for those with an egg allergy, accidental ingestion can cause symptoms ranging from hives to anaphylaxis. Because allergic reactions can be unpredictable, even a small amount of egg can be a serious threat.

In light of this, the 48-ounce containers of Brownie Moose Tracks ice cream that had been distributed to all 197 Weis locations were recalled. Consumers were advised to dispose of any previously purchased ice cream that had been affected or to return the product to the store for a refund, and there were no cases of illness reported.

In 2023, Nearly 100 Products Were Recalled Because Of Listeria

Ice Cream House bowl with three smaller bowls of ice cream

In early August of 2023, a strain of listeria surfaced when two people -- one in New York and one in Pennsylvania -- were admitted to the hospital with symptoms of listeriosis. Both patients had eaten a Soft Serve On the Go cup of Vanilla Chocolate Ice Cream made by Real Kosher Ice Cream. The FDA was able to collect an unused product sample from one of the patient's homes and confirmed the presence of listeria. A recall was issued for all flavors of the ice cream and sorbet cups that Real Kosher Ice Cream produced, and production was halted while an investigation took place.

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By August 30, Ice Cream House, a company that produces cakes, ice creams, or sorbets from the same facility as Real Kosher, issued a voluntary recall of all of their products, as well as 91 items. The products being recalled were sold at the Ice Cream House in Brooklyn and in retail supermarkets throughout New York, New Jersey, and Ohio. The facility has since taken corrective action, including the precaution of adding lot numbers to their packaging, to more easily trace products throughout their life cycle in case of future recalls.

In 2024, Totally Cool Issued A Recall Due To Listeria Contamination

Chipwich ice cream cookie sandwiches on the shelf at a grocery store - The Image Party/Shutterstock

In June 2024, folks hoping to beat the heat of summer were advised to stay away from Totally Cool ice cream treats. Based in Maryland, Totally Cool, Inc. was owned by Owings Mills and was responsible for making frozen treats for brands like Hershey's, Friendly's, Chipwich, and Jeni's. When an FDA sampling of the products tested positive for listeria, production of over 60 types of ice cream treats was immediately halted.

The treats involved everything from fruit purees to celebration cakes and ice cream sandwiches, and were traceable by dates and plant codes featured on the packaging. These items were distributed nationwide in retail stores and via direct delivery, and customers were urged to return the items to the place they were initially purchased for a full refund. In the wake of the recall, the company was forced to lay off 68 of its 71 employees, and by August, Owings Mills had filed for bankruptcy. Listeria was found on one line at the production facility, and no illnesses were ever reported.

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Twelve children at a Long Island middle school were sickened Monday morning after ingesting marijuana gummies distributed by a student, the school said.

Eleven of the sick children at William Floyd Middle School in Moriches were taken to a local hospital, while one was released into their parents custody, according to the school.

We are grateful to our first responders for their quick response, thankful that the students will be treated and hopeful that they will recover quickly, read a message on the schools website.

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Suffolk County police responded to the school about 60 miles east of Central Park around 10 a.m. All the students who fell ill were 13 or 14 years old, cops said.

No criminal charges will be filed in the incident, police said. Any discipline will be handled at the school level, and no further information was released.

How the middle school student obtained the THC gummies to hand out to their fellow students was not explained by William Floyd Middle School or Suffolk County police.

With widespread legalization of marijuana across the country, there have been numerous incidents in which children have accidentally ingested weed gummies.

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Last year in New Jersey, four children at Phifer Middle School in Pennsauken were hospitalized in mid-February after eating such gummies.

Two months later, two elementary school siblings, a 9-year-old boy and 8-year-old girl, were hospitalized in Port Reading after they consumed cannabis gummies.
BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Around 2,100 members will attend the annual session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), China's top political advisory body, which is set to open on Tuesday.

This session and the annual session of the National People's Congress, China's national legislature, form the "two sessions" of the country, making headlines every year in this country.

ROLES OF CPPCC

The CPPCC is an initiative that brings together various political parties in the country, prominent individuals without party affiliation, people's organizations, and individuals from all ethnic groups and sectors of society to participate in the political system.

It is a key mechanism for multiparty cooperation and political consultation under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, and fulfills a major role in the promotion of socialist democracy and the practice of whole-process people's democracy in China.

The CPPCC promotes unity and cooperation among its participating political parties and individuals without party affiliation. It also works to promote democracy and offer proposals on state affairs while fostering consensus.

The CPPCC consists of a national committee and local committees. The national committee guides the work of local committees and they all enjoy a term of five years.

The main functions of the national committee are political consultation, democratic oversight, and participation in and deliberation of state affairs.

SECTORS OF NATIONAL POLITICAL ADVISORS

Members of the CPPCC National Committee are from a wide range of sectors, such as literature and arts, science and technology, the social sciences, and economics. They are selected through extensive consultations within their respective circles.

Individuals from the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions are also among members of the top political advisory body.

The 14th CPPCC National Committee consists of 34 sectors. Among them, the sector of environment and resources was established in 2023 to help promote green transformation and development.

DUTIES OF NATIONAL POLITICAL ADVISORS

National political advisors can help with formulating national policies by raising comments and suggestions after thorough research and consultations.

Their comments and suggestions, when formally documented and submitted, are officially referred to as proposals. Each proposal, whether adopted or not, must receive a reply.

During the annual session, national political advisors usually hold group meetings to deliberate the work report of the top political advisory body and a report on how the proposals from political advisors have been handled. They also sit in on the annual session of the national legislature as non-voting participants to hear and discuss documents -- including the government work report.

Political advisors are encouraged to engage deeply with the people and their communities, seek people's opinions and suggestions, and effectively reach out to, serve, unite and guide their respective sectors throughout the year. 
HOUSTON COUNTY, Ala. (WDHN)  The man accused of hitting a pedestrian with his car and leaving the scene was issued a $165,000 bond in the case on Monday.

On the night of Friday, February 28th, a man died when a vehicle struck him along Burdeshaw Road and U.S. 431 in Kinsey.

The driver then took off, and witnesses followed and caught a photo of the license plate to send to police.

Police tracked the address attached to the plate to the home of Phillip and Carin Chavers. Upon questioning, Carin initially claimed she was the one driving the truck, but police say it was later discovered she lied to protect her husband.

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Phillip Chavers is now being held in the Houston County Jail with a $165,000 bond; $150,000 for Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Death, $6,000 for Making a False Report, $6,000 for Obstruction of Justice, and $3,000 for Resisting Arrest.

Police have identified the victim as Matthew Edward Cook, 32, of Griffin, Georgia.

Read more on this case here.

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  2025 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing.

We remember and honor those 168 who lost their lives on April 19, 1995, when a bomb went off in front of the Murrah building in downtown Oklahoma City.

168 Days to remember those lost in the OKC bombing: Patricia Ann Nix. Image courtesy Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum.

We want to remember Patricia Ann Nix, while honoring those who survived and thanking those changed forever.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
WRIGHT TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD)  A Marne-area 18-year-old has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after another 18-year-old was shot and killed Saturday.

Alan Lopez was arraigned Monday afternoon on charges of involuntary manslaughter, carrying a concealed weapon and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Hes accused of killing Hector Enriquez-Rangel, of Wright Township.

1 dead, 1 arrested after shooting in Wright Township

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Enriquez-Rangel arrived at Helen DeVos Childrens Hospital in Grand Rapids around 7 p.m. Saturday with a gunshot wound to the torso. He was later pronounced dead.

Investigators worked out the shooting happened between 6:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m that evening near the intersection of Arthur Street and 24th Avenue in Wright Township, east of Coopersville.

The information that we have at this time is that the two subjects were in a vehicle together prior to the shooting and a shot was fired inside that vehicle, Ottawa County Sheriffs Office Capt. Jacob Sparks said. They were friends that were riding in the vehicle together prior to the shot being fired and prior to any criminal activity.

Lopez drove Enriquez-Rangel to the hospital, authorities say. Thats where the suspect was arrested.

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Sometimes homicides can be accidental. Sometimes they can be intentional. Sometimes they can be premeditated, which would be first-degree murder. Sometimes they can be involuntary, Sparks said.

At arraignment, Lopezs bail was set at $100,000.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office at 616.738.4000 or Silent Observer at 877.887.4536.

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A Kern County man has been identified as the victim of a 1988 homicide in Northern California.

Officials with the Plumas County Sheriffs Office identified the man as Paul Richard Davis, formerly from Kern County.

During a tree removal in April of 1988 crews located a bone sticking out of the ground along with some clothing in a secluded area of Quincy, California. The crew then contacted the sheriffs office.

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The sheriffs office confirmed there were human skeletal remains in the secluded area. Evidence, including a tree root, were sent to the University of Arizona for examination, according to the sheriffs office.

Officials said the grave had possibly been dug as early as growing season 1985 and as late as growing season of 1986.

The remains were transferred to the California State University of Chico Anthropology Department. The department identified the man as caucasian, about 6 feet tall with a muscular build and about 35 to 45 years old. His skull had a hole that is consistent with a gunshot injury.

Evidence was trasferred to the California Department of Justice for examination, according to officials. The remains were unable to be identified by dental records.

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All the remains were then transferred back to the Chico State University Anthropology Lab.

Ricks Picks: The best (and worst) Tom Hanks movies

In 2022, the university re-examined the cold case. Bone samples were submitted to the California Department of Justice DNA Lab to create a DNA profile. Officials said there was never a DNA match.

In 2023, the sheriffs office contracted a private DNA lab to obtain a DNA profile.

A single nucleotide polymorphism was obtained from the sample and aided the development of a family tree by using a publicly accessible geneaology services, birth certificates and obituaries to identify potential family members.

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The FBI and sheriffs detectives found two living blood related family members of Davis in Bakersfield, according to officials.

The family members provided a voluntary DNA sample. The DNA samples provided strong support that the decendent is related to the family, according to the Plumas County Sheriffs Office.

Family members told detectives the Davis lived a transient lifestyle and contacted them via telephone every six months until one day in the 1980s.

The Plumas County Sheriffs Office is looking for anyone that may have information regarding Paul Richard Davis and the homicide.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Plumas County Sheriffs office Detective Unit at 530-283-6363.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17 News.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Two people were arrested after stealing products from the Henrietta Target and leading deputies on a chase that ended in Rochester Sunday evening, according to the Monroe County Sheriffs Office.

(WROC/Melanie Sosa)

Deputies were called to the Target on Marketplace Drive around 8 p.m. where deputies said they witnessed multiple people running from the store with merchandise, shoving an associate on their way out, and jumping into a vehicle waiting nearby in the parking lot.

A brief chase ensued when the driver refused to stop for deputies. The chase ended around Alameda Street and Raines Park in Rochester where two of the three people inside the vehicle were arrested, according to the sheriffs office

(WROC/Melanie Sosa)

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DOCCS starts firing striking correction officers

No crashes happened as a result of the chase, deputies announced. No one was injured, and deputies said they did not believe there to be any danger to the public. The investigation continues.

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LOS ANGELES (AP)  Federal authorities in Los Angeles arrested two alleged leaders of a criminal organization suspected of smuggling 20,000 people from Guatemala to the U.S. and charging each person as much as $18,000 to get them into the country.

Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul, known as Turko, and his lieutenant, Cristobal Mejia-Chaj, were taken into custody Friday. They have each pleaded not guilty to multiple charges related to smuggling migrants across the border over five years, the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

A federal judge ordered the men, who themselves are in the country illegally, jailed without bond until their trial in April.

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The indictment names Renoj-Matul as the head of one of the largest human smuggling organizations in the U.S., a vast ring operating for at least a dozen years that primarily transported people to the U.S. from Guatemala.

The criminal network was responsible for the deaths of seven immigrants without legal status  including a 4-year-old child  who were killed in a November 2023 vehicle crash in Oklahoma, prosecutors said.

A driver who's been in custody in Oklahoma since that crash, Jose Paxtor-Oxlaj, was also charged in the California indictment, according to the court documents. Another man, Helmer Obispo-Hernandez, a lieutenant in the organization and a supervisor of a team of drivers, faces charges as well. He's believed to be in Guatemala, officials said.

Attorneys for the four men could not be located Monday for comment.

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Renoj-Matual was assisted by associates in Guatemala who solicited people who each paid between $15,000 and $18,000 to be smuggled to the U.S. through Mexico, prosecutors said.

For an additional fee, the migrants were transported and moved to various destinations in the United States, including Los Angeles and Phoenix. Some of the migrants who weren't able to pay the fees were held hostage in a stash house near downtown Los Angeles, according to prosecutors.

These smuggling organizations have no regard for human life and their conduct kills, Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally said in a statement. The indictment and arrests here have dismantled one of the countrys largest and most dangerous smuggling organizations.

If convicted of all charges, the defendants could face a statutory maximum sentence of death or life imprisonment.
WILSON COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  Two people are now facing felony charges nearly a year after a 10-year-old boy was killed in a jet ski crash on Old Hickory Lake.

Officers with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) said they were called to the lake just after 5 p.m. on July 16, 2024, to respond to reports about a collision involving two jet skis that were operating in an area near Boxwell Reservation.

JULY 2024: Child dies after jet ski crash on Old Hickory Lake

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The jet skis were reportedly owned by Boxwell Reservation, operated by staff and had a child passenger aboard each one. A 19-year-old staff member and her 10-year-old passenger were seriously injured in the collision.

According to the TWRA, the 19-year-old staff member was taken to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to be treated for her injuries. Meanwhile, lifesaving measures were performed on the 10-year-oldidentified as Jack Gearbut he later died at Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital.

Approximately two months after the deadly crash, Jacks parents filed a lawsuit suing the Middle Tennessee Council Boy Scouts of America for $10 million, claiming their negligence and reckless conduct led to their sons death.

RELATED | Parents of boy killed in jet ski crash on Old Hickory Lake sue Boy Scouts for sons wrongful death

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The lawsuit states Jack was enrolled as a camper at Boxwell Reservation as part of the Tennessee National Guard Youth Week.

Now, a Wilson County Grand Jury has indicted two individuals identified as Joshua Kennington and Savannah Remington on several charges for their connection to the deadly crash.

According to an indictment obtained by News 2, the grand jury determined that both Kennington and Remington did unlawfully and recklessly kill Jack Gear by the operation of a vessel subject.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

In addition, the indictment states that they both failed to proceed at safe speeds and failed to alter their courses to avoid the collision.

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Kennington and Remington were charged with vehicle homicide by recklessness, safe speed, risk of collision and head-on situation. Both were taken to Wilson County Jail.

News 2 has reached out to defense attorneys for comment. No additional information was immediately released.

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WARREN, Ohio (WKBN)  Two dogs were found dead in a bag on a boat this weekend in Warren.

Read next: Ohio woman faces life in prison after pleading guilty to giving 80-year-old father-in-law lethal doses of medication

According to police reports, officers were dispatched to the area of Choctaw Street and Pershing Avenue for a dumping complaint. The caller said a boat was dumped about three weeks ago and someone painted DEAD PEOPLE on the side of it, reports state.

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Officers observed the painted message and a tarp-like bag unzipped. After opening the bag, two pitbull dogs were found lying inside dead.

No arrests have been made nor have any charges been filed.

The incident remains under investigation.

Nadine Grimley contributed to this report.

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BRUSSELS, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The European Commission on Monday proposed allowing European automakers to meet their carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions targets over a three-year period instead of annually, offering greater flexibility in compliance.

Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced at a press conference that she would introduce an amendment to the CO2 standards regulation in March, aimed at giving car manufacturers more leeway in meeting their targets.

The targets remain unchanged and must still be met, but this proposal provides "more breathing space for the industry and greater clarity," she said.

The amendment requires approval from the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union (EU), but von der Leyen expressed confidence that it would pass swiftly.

Automakers have been urging the EU to adopt a more flexible approach to emissions compliance, warning that rigid annual targets could result in steep fines and further burden an already struggling sector.

The European Commission plans to unveil its action plan for the automotive industry on March 5, aiming to accelerate the electrification of Europe's car fleet and enhance global competitiveness. 
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Two people were injured after a crash involving a pedestrian Sunday night, March 2, in Central El Paso.

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El Paso Police sent out an alert to media just after 1 a.m. Monday morning, March 3, stating that patrol was at the scene of a crash involving a pedestrian at Piedras Street and Wyoming Avenue. The call came in at around 9:30 p.m. Sunday.

A male suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital. Police did not specify the males age.

The El Paso Fire Department confirmed another person was transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.

No further information has been released.

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A 2-year-old boy vanished while playing outside in Oregon, deputies said.

Now rescuers are scouring hundreds of miles for the child who has been missing for about two days with search efforts continuing on Monday, March 3, the Lincoln County Sheriffs Office said in a Facebook post.

Dane Paulsen was last seen March 1 at his home near Siletz, deputies said.

The home is near milepost 21 on Oregon Route 229, also called the Siletz Highway, deputies said.

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He had been playing in his front yard out of sight of his parents, deputies said.

When his parents realized he was gone, they called 911 at about 4:25 p.m., deputies said.

Search teams rapidly set out to find the missing toddler.

In the first 24 hours after his disappearance, deputies said 382 acres have been searched and 283 miles have been covered.

Efforts have included 88 search team members, four watercrafts, divers, drones, police dogs, 40 investigators and 138 community volunteers, deputies said.

Divers searched a nearby river, and the FBI joined the investigation, deputies said.

Dane is described as being friendly and loving water, but he cannot swim, deputies said.

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He has brown hair and green eyes, and was last seen wearing a gray fuzzy hood with ears, blue and white shoes and black pants.

A male driver was initially reported to have been near the home about 30 minutes before the childs disappearance, but deputies said he is no longer a point of interest.

Deputies said there is no evidence to suggest a crime has happened.

Residents interested in helping with the search can go to a staging area and check in with the camps host at Elks Toketee Illahee Campground at 20590 Siletz Highway in Siletz.

Anyone with information about Danes whereabouts can call authorities at 541-265-0669.

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An AMBER Alert was not issued as his case does not meet criteria, deputies said.

Recommended guidelines from the U.S. Department of Justice suggest there needs to be reasonable belief the child was abducted.

Siletz is about an 80-mile drive southwest from Salem.

2-year-old still missing after car connected to disappearance found in Texas, cops say

5-year-old, two others found dead in crashed car were shot, AL cops say. Man charged

Missing man tried to swim back to shore after jump from California cliff, deputies say
Two days after Donald Trump won the 2016 election, California state Senate President Pro Tem Kevin de Leon canceled a flight to Germany and called his executive staff for a meeting.

They began to dissect the myriad ways Trump could seriously hurt Californians through policies and actions on the environment, freedom of choice and immigration.

The framework for landmark legislation on immigration  Senate Bill 54  was born a few weeks later.

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We knew that we needed to do something to protect immigrants, and it wasnt just something on a social media platform or a hashtag, De Leon recalled. We needed something with real teeth.

Immigration agents rely on state and local law enforcement to help them identify and arrest deportable immigrants. When SB 54 took effect in 2018, California became the first state to substantially divorce its law enforcement resources from federal immigration enforcement use. There were so-called sanctuary cities, but no sanctuary states.

Read more: ICE agents are setting their sights on L.A. What employers need to know

Formally called the California Values Act, SB 54 is critical to California leaders efforts to Trump-proof the state. In Trump's first term, he tried and failed to overturn the law in court, but advocates worry that his new administration will encourage local governments to defy the law and that many residents remain at risk without more stringent protections.

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The law is also held up by both supporters and opponents as an example of why sanctuary policies work, or don't. Its advocates say SB 54 stands out as the single law that has prevented the most deportations anywhere across the country.

Angela Chan, a lawyer who helped write SB 54, said the proliferation of sanctuary policies during Trump's first term ensured cities and states could shield immigrant residents against deportation.

This time around hes going to try even harder to pressure, threaten and coerce sanctuary cities, because that was the wall we built to help protect immigrants, she said.

Two laws set the stage for SB 54. The TRUST Act, implemented in 2014, prevented local law enforcement from holding someone in jail for immigration agents beyond the time they were scheduled to be released, unless they had committed certain crimes.

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Then in 2017 with the TRUTH Act , the state became the first to require that immigrants be alerted of their right to an attorney before being interviewed in custody by immigration agents and their right to decline such interviews.

SB 54 built on those laws. Among its many provisions: Local police cannot arrest someone just for having a deportation order; cannot hold someone in jail for extra time solely for immigration agents to pick them up; cannot let immigration agents interview someone without that person's written consent.

Local law enforcement can, however, notify immigration agents of someone's impending release and transfer them to immigration custody if the person has certain convictions. Those include felonies that resulted in state prison time, most other felonies within the last 15 years, and higher-level misdemeanors within the last five years.

State prison officials have no limits regarding whom they can transfer to immigration custody, but they do have to give the person a written heads-up.

Effects of sanctuary laws

SB 54 and its predecessors clearly have influenced how many people Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have arrested for being in the country illegally.

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A 2018 report from the nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute found that Californias share of ICE arrests nationally fell to 14% in fiscal year 2017 from 23% in fiscal year 2013.

Data from the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation show transfers of state prison inmates to ICE custody have trended down since California began disentangling local and federal law enforcement. In 2013, just over 2,800 inmates were picked up by ICE; last year that number fell to just over 1,300.

Charis Kubrin, a criminology professor at UC Irvine, found that SB 54 did not cause an increase in crime . She compared Californias violent and property crime rates with an approximation of the states rates if the law had not been enacted, and found no significant difference.

The attacks on sanctuary policies assume that immigrants commit crimes at higher rates than the native-born population, said Kubrin, co-author of a 2023 book, Immigration and Crime: Taking Stock. Many studies have found the opposite is true .

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All of the policies take as a cornerstone these fundamental assumptions, and the problem is  and Ive been studying this for 20 years so I can say this pretty definitively  those assumptions are flawed, Kubrin said.

Attempts to expand SB 54 protections

SB 54 does allow local and federal law enforcement to coordinate in some instances. Such coordination is allowed not just for violent crimes, but also other offenses, such as vandalism. In fact, roughly 800 crimes are listed as exceptions to SB 54.

The result, some advocates say, is confusion and poor implementation.

Some cities and counties, such as Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, have enacted laws that go beyond SB 54, getting rid of the exceptions to provide more protections for immigrants.

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Efforts to do the same on the statewide level have failed. Lawmakers advanced a bill that would have restricted the state prison systems ability to coordinate with immigration authorities. Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed it, and his office recently said he'd veto such a measure again.

That bill would have helped people such as Kao Saelee , an incarcerated firefighter who was released in 2020 from a California prison after serving 22 years for an armed robbery. But instead of going home to his family, Saelee was transferred to an immigrant detention facility where he faced deportation. Saelee, who was born in Laos and moved to the U.S. as a refugee, was eventually released from detention and pardoned by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Since Trump took office, Newsom has repeatedly explained that California law does not protect criminals in the prison system from deportation.

Read more: LAPD presence at South L.A. immigration raid sparks questions

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Chan, now an attorney with the San Francisco public defender's office, said she thinks there could still be room to get rid of the exceptions in SB 54 that allow local and federal cooperation.

As Trump continues to roll out his horror show targeting immigrants, I think that will change the political landscape and what Democrats are willing to do, she said. It will be very hard for the Democrats to turn a blind eye.

Quashing sanctuary policies

Meanwhile, pressure is building from the Trump administration and other Republicans against policies such as SB 54.

For example, Trump recently signed an executive order to stop funding jurisdictions that facilitate the subsidization or promotion of illegal immigration or sanctuary policies. Its unclear exactly what funds the order would target.

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On her first day as attorney general, Pam Bondi ordered a 60-day pause on federal funding for sanctuary jurisdictions and encouraged the Department of Justice to go after places that dont comply with federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Even before SB 54 had made its way through the Legislature, Trump threatened to stop the flow of federal funding. He followed through, withholding millions of dollars in public safety grants from local law enforcement and prompting California leaders to sue.

Read more: Where can L.A. immigrants go for help under Trump? Try the public library

The question of whether the federal government can withhold grants to punish sanctuary jurisdictions was left open after President Biden took office, and lawsuits were dismissed before the Supreme Court could take up the issue.

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Congressional Republicans, meanwhile, have introduced legislation to defund sanctuary localities.

Among them is a bill by Rep. Nick LaLota (R-New York) and condemned by immigrant advocates that would cut off a variety of federal funds benefiting immigrants without legal status, such as school nutrition, public transit and emergency response, if the local government does not cooperate with federal immigration authorities.

One state measure takes direct aim at SB 54.

The bill, by state Sen. Brian W. Jones (R-Santee), would stop local jurisdictions such as San Diego from further restricting cooperation with federal authorities beyond what SB 54 already prescribes. It would also require local law enforcement to cooperate with immigration agents in cases where SB 54 simply allows it.

"It's not undoing the sanctuary law, it is mildly reforming," he said. "We have violent felons being released from jail that should be in custody. That's a problem."

Critics of SB 54 point to cases such as that of Gustavo Garcia, who in 2018 embarked on what local officials described as a reign of terror, killing at least one person, injuring at least six others, robbing a convenience store and then leading a wrong-way chase down a highway in a stolen truck before crashing and dying.

Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux blamed the sanctuary law because Garcia had been deported previously after an armed robbery and was arrested days before the rampage on suspicion of being under the influence of a controlled substance.

Looming legal battles

SB 54 is sparking legal battles on a local level too. In January, leaders of Huntington Beach filed a federal lawsuit against the state over SB 54, arguing it is unconstitutional. Its the second time the city has done so; the first attempt failed.

Huntington Beach City Atty. Michael Gates told the Daily Pilot that SB 54 runs complete interference for good law enforcement practices. Gates announced last month that he was resigning to become deputy assistant attorney general in the civil rights division at the Department of Justice.

San Francisco also filed a federal lawsuit last month, challenging Trump administration directives that essentially run counter to SB 54. The administration has threatened to prosecute local officials who impede deportation efforts.

Read more: Trump administration plans to require undocumented immigrants to join registry or face jail, fines

Other states have enacted laws that go even further than Californias. Among those is Illinois, where state and local governments are prohibited from engaging in federal immigration enforcement. Bondi filed a lawsuit last month against the state, Chicago and Cook County , alleging that their policies are an intentional effort to obstruct the federal governments enforcement of immigration laws.

But that argument mirrors those made during the first Trump administration against SB 54. A panel of three 9th Circuit judges in 2019 shot down the notion that sanctuary policies impede federal law, and the Supreme Court declined to take up the case.

"The federal government was free to expect as much as it wanted, but it could not require Californias cooperation without running afoul of the Tenth Amendment," the judges wrote.

Times staff writer Rachel Uranga in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 3.9 jolted through Los Angeles, mere hours after the Academy Awards concluded on Sunday night.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake struck at 10:13 p.m. about 2 kilometers (or roughly 1.24 miles) east-southeast of North Hollywood.

The depth was said to be about 15.3 kilometers (roughly 9.5 miles).

The Los Angeles Fire Department said the earthquake was felt in downtown L.A.

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At this time, #LAFD is not entering earthquake mode, stated the departments X post.

Dozens of residents across the region reported feeling the quake using the USGS Felt It community reporting tool.

The reports show people felt it as north as Santa Clarita and as south as Anaheim.

There were no reports of injuries or damage.

Latest California Earthquakes. Please wait a moment for map to load.

Use controls or your thumb to move and zoom.

Thousands of earthquakes are recorded in California yearly, but the vast majority are extremely minor. Several hundred reach a magnitude of 3.0, and only about 15 to 20 are greater than magnitude 4.0, according to the USGS.

In North America, only Alaska records more quakes per year than California.

What to do in an earthquake

During an earthquake, its crucial to know the proper steps to protect yourself and minimize injury. The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) provides detailed guidelines on what to do during such events. Here are the key points:

Drop, Cover, and Hold On:

Drop: Immediately drop down onto your hands and knees. This position prevents you from being knocked over and allows you to stay low and crawl to safety if necessary.

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Cover: Use one arm to protect your head and neck, and if possible, take shelter under a sturdy table or desk. If no shelter is available, get down next to an interior wall away from windows. Stay on your knees and bend over to protect vital organs.

Hold On: Hold on to your shelter until the shaking stops. Be prepared to move with your shelter if it shifts.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
(This story has been updated with new information.)

The number of federal offices the Department of Government Efficiency has identified for closure in Kentucky has ballooned to 19 as of Monday, including three located in Louisville, according to the department's website.

The Louisville offices listed DOGE savings site are the Office of the Secretary, Departmental Management and the Food and Drug Administration. The website does not list addresses for the offices but claims the terminated leases will result in more than $300,000 in savings.

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"Elon Musk is operating in the shadows, unaccountable for the families he's hurting. I've heard from single moms, veterans, and countless other hard working Louisvillians who have been laid off without notice, severance, or compassion  they deserve answers and I wont stop pushing for them," U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey said in a statement.

McGarvey's office does not currently know how many people will be impacted by the closures in Louisville but plans to send a letter to President Donald Trump this week demanding transparency about which offices and how many workers will be impacted by DOGE cuts, a spokesperson said.

"There has been a disturbing lack of transparency around Elon Musk and DOGE  they either don't know what they're doing, or they don't want us to know what they are doing. Neither is acceptable," McGarvey said.

Last week, the DOGE website named just four federal offices in Kentucky slated for closure.

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One of those was the Social Security Administration office in Campbellsville, though DOGE appears to have reversed course by deciding to keep it open at reduced capacity, according to a report from WAVE-TV. A request for comment has not yet been returned.

Had it closed, the nearest Social Security Administration office to Campbellsville would have been a roughly 45-minute drive away in Elizabethtown.

Elon Musk attends the first cabinet meeting hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump, in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 26, 2025. REUTERS/Brian Snyder

U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers, who represents Hazard, said the Social Security Administration office previously announced for closure has been vacant and that no employees will be impacted.

"Social Security Administration officials informed me that it will be closing an empty Social Security office in Hazard that was designated to be used periodically for hearings. No SSA employees are stationed at the empty hearing site that will be closed. With nearly 85% of SSA hearings now being held virtually or by telephone, DOGE has identified empty office space that can be closed to help save taxpayer dollars," Rogers said in a statement.

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Danielle Smoot, a spokesperson for Rogers, said the office has requested details regarding the Mine Safety Health Administration office, which is among the new offices slated to be closed.

Other federal offices in Kentucky listed on the website as of Monday include:

Farm Service Agency, Lexington-Fayette  $786,167 lease

Small Business Administration, Lexington-Fayette  $15,143 lease

Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation and Enforcement, Lexington-Fayette  $176,031 lease

U.S. Attorney's Office, London  $219,455 lease

Mine Safety Health Administration, Barbourville  $370,008 lease

Internal Revenue Service National Office, Paducah  $77,216 lease

Mine Safety Health Administration, Beaver Dam  $65,454 lease

Mine Safety Health Administration, Prestonsburg  $143,326 lease

Mine Safety Health Administration, Madisonville  $563,240 lease

Internal Revenue Service National Office, Owensboro  $70,713 lease

Mine Safety Health Administration, Harlan  $127,592 lease

Internal Revenue Service National Office, Bowling Green  $199,239 lease

Internal Revenue Service National Office, Hopkinsville  $50,300 lease

In the early weeks of Trump's term, tech-billionaire Elon Musk and his team at DOGE have swept through federal agencies looking for ways to slash federal savings, including firing workers and canceling contracts.

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The DOGE website currently touts $105 billion in savings achieved through its efforts, though some organizations that have reviewed the agency's work have found it to overstate savings.

This story may be updated.

Contact reporter Killian Baarlaer at kbaarlaer@gannett.com or @bkillian72 on X.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: DOGE closes more federal offices in Kentucky, including 3 in Louisville
(NewsNation)  Young children are increasingly engaging with artificial intelligence, a study shows, and data suggests it could be influencing how they learn.

According to Common Sense Media, 30% of parents with children under the age of 9 report their child has used AI for learning. One in four parents say it enhances their childs critical thinking skills, and 39% say their child is using AI to study school-related material. Only 8% of parents say their children use AI to learn about AI itself.

How AI, federal job cuts could impact Black workforce

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More than 60% of parents told researchers they saw no impact on their childs critical thinking, and nearly the same percentage reported no effect on their childs overall well-being. About 20% of parents believe AI has a positive impact on creativity, highlighting a divide in how families view AIs role in childrens development.

Some AI platforms block users under 18

Most platforms like OpenAIs chat-GPT or Googles Gemini require users to be over 13 years old, with some like Anthropics Claude blocking anyone under 18.

Experts caution that children are at the forefront of a digital transition were still trying to fully understand. There are concerns about the lack of clear guidelines for helping young people navigate a world increasingly influenced by AI.

Last year, a Florida teen took his own life after reportedly becoming emotionally involved with a Game of Thrones-inspired AI chatbot. The boys mother has since filed a lawsuit against the AIs creators.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
A 4.5-magnitude earthquake struck at 5:02 a.m. Monday, March 3, in western Washington, the the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

The 10-mile deep quake hit about 6.2 miles from Orcas, according to the USGS.

More than 6,800 people from as far away as Portland, Oregon, and Issaquah reported feeling the tremor to the agency.

A tsunami warning was not issued following the quake, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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This event seems to have been widely felt, J. Renate Hartog, manager of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network and an affiliate associate professor with the Earth and Space Sciences Department at the University of Washington, told The Bellingham Herald.

It was too small for the Wireless Emergency Alerts system (used for Amber Alerts), because that is meant for imminent threat and an magnitude 4.5 is too small to cause any real damage, Hartog told the news outlet.

Just got jolted awake by another strong earthquake in Victoria - Significant shaking that lasted for some time, one person wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

WOAH. An earthquake woke me from my sleep on Vancouver Island. Sounded like a heavy cart rolling outside and shook us awake, another person wrote.

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Biggest earthquake Ive ever felt in James Bay, Victoria. Jumped into the space between bed and bookcase. Hands still shaking. Sitting with kids upstairs next to strong wooden table now, someone else wrote.

Orcas is an unincorporated community on Orcas Island in San Juan County, which is southwest of Bellingham.

McClatchy News reporter Don Sweeney contributed to this report.

The gold star shows the epicenter of the quake on Orcas Island, Washington.

What to know about earthquakes

Magnitude measures the energy released at the source of the earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey says. It replaces the old Richter scale.

Quakes between 2.5 and 5.4 magnitude are often felt but rarely cause much damage, according to Michigan Tech. Quakes below 2.5 magnitude are seldom felt by most people.

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Earthquakes sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. They can happen anywhere, but theyre most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico and Washington, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

If an earthquake strikes, its best to protect yourself right away. Here are tips from experts:

If youre in a car : Pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.

If youre in bed: Turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow.

If youre outdoors: Stay away from buildings. Dont go inside.

If youre inside: Stay and dont run outdoors. Stay away from doorways.

The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, officials say.

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Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy, officials say. If youre using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.

Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible. If no shelter is available, crawl to an interior wall away from windows.

Once under a table, officials say you should hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it.

There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines, officials say. Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.

Volcano spews glowing lava up to 600 feet into the night sky in Hawaii. See it

Earthquakes are rumbling under Alaska volcano, officials say. Is it about to erupt?
The story has been updated to include a statement from the Sioux City Community School District.

SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  Four more people have been arrested for a fight that broke out at West Middle School last week.

Rebecca Orellana Gomez Courtesy Woodbury County Sheriffs Office

The Sioux City Police Department said in a release that officers made the arrests Monday. One of the four was an adult while the other three were juveniles of the ages of 12, 13, and 14 years old. All four have been charged with participating in a riot, a class D felony.

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The adult, Rebecca Orellana Gomez, 38, of Sioux City, has been booked into the Woodbury County Jail.

The Sioux City Community School District said in a statement that the incident was disappointing, adding that there is no leeway for violence on school ground. Read the districts full statement below.

Last weeks incident was disappointing on every level  disappointing because school grounds were used as the backdrop for violence, disappointing because it involved parents and students, and disappointing because of the impact that incidents like this have on everyone in our school community. There is no leeway for violence of any kind on school grounds. The individuals involved, including students, face serious, sometimes life-altering, consequences. For students, this can include disciplinary action, including expulsion from school, and criminal charges. We have stated this before, and we will say it again  acts of violence have not and will not be tolerated on school grounds. The District will continue to take action against any individual who engages in violence on school property. We remain steadfast in our commitment to provide our students with safe learning environments. Sioux City Community School District

In a Friday release, the Sioux City Police Department said that officers they were called Wednesday just after 3 p.m. to West Middle School due to a fight that broke out in front of the school building.

Union County Sheriffs Office seeking help on investigation

Officials said that there were nine people involved in the fight, both parents and students. As of Friday, one person had been arrested. Channing Walker, 33, of Sioux City, was charged with participating in a riot, a class D felony.

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The school district said Friday that the police department is responsible for criminal charges, the district is also taking action to ensure that any students involved face consequences for their actions.

The police department is continuing to investigate the incident.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
HAYWARD, Calif. (KRON)  Four people were shot outside at a Hayward restaurant parking lot Saturday night, the Hayward Police Department confirmed. The shooting happened around 10:50 p.m. at the parking lot of The Grill By Miss G restaurant.

Officers arrived and located three people with gunshot wounds, according to HPD. It was later discovered that a fourth victim from the shooting took themselves to the hospital.

All four are in the hospital and expected to survive, police said. As of Sunday afternoon, there have been no arrests made in this shooting. HPD has not provided a description of the suspect(s).

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The Grill By Miss G posted on its Instagram, acknowledging the shooting. The restaurant said it was deeply saddened and that the shooting was an isolated incident.

As a cherished part of the Hayward and Castro Valley community, I am deeply saddened by the incident that occurred outside our restaurant, an Instagram post reads. This is an isolated incident, and we have never experienced anything like this in our many years of operation.

Drunk driver arrested for hit-and-run, 1 hospitalized: PD

The Grill By Miss G is a Filipino restaurant that serves traditional Filipino street food and hosts live music and karaoke events. It was previously operated under the name Totos Grill.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Four years ago, 20 members of the Chicago City Council signed a letter to then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot, vehemently opposing her nominee to lead the Civilian Office of Police Accountability, Andrea Kersten, who was the agencys deputy chief administrator at the time.

COPA, bound by the citys municipal code, had recently released its report on the Chicago Police Departments botched raid at the home of Anjanette Young in 2019. In that report, authored by Kersten, the agency recommended a three-day suspension for police Officer Ella French because she didnt have a body-worn camera.

French was killed in an on-duty shooting after the raid but before the reports public release. Kersten publicly apologized for not redacting Frenchs name from the report, and she spoke privately with the slain officers family.

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But the pro-police wing of the City Council wanted its pound of flesh, and that group of 20 aldermen  two of whom were later convicted of federal crimes  held firm in its opposition. Still, the full council confirmed Kersten as COPAs chief administrator the following year.

I knew exactly what I was signing up for, Kersten, who recently announced her resignation, said in an interview with the Tribune last week.

In the years that followed, Kersten often faced harsh criticism in the wake of high-profile police shootings and other misconduct allegations. Now, as she steps away from her role as leader of the agency, she says COPA is primed to effectively continue its oversight and investigatory work.

She said that leaving COPA was on (her) mind and heart for quite some time, and she knew 2025 would be her last year with the agency.

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The politics and the noise around my work in particular certainly set in motion a timeline by which I needed to make a decision, she said.

Kersten led COPA for roughly half of the agencys existence, and she said she leaves the oversight body in better shape than when she took over.

I can honestly look back at the last almost four years of being at the helm of COPA and say I did what I came here to do, and I leave behind an agency that is much better positioned operationally, caseload-wise, (in) consent decree compliance (and with) a national profile, Kersten told the Tribune. Looking around the country, I can name off all of the major cities that look to COPA and what we do here in Chicago at COPA as the standard for what civilian investigatory oversight of police can look like.

Kerstens impact can be seen in data the agency collected during her tenure.

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Since May 2021, the month Kersten was named interim chief administrator, the agency has opened more than 2,400 investigations based on complaints of police misconduct, according to figures made publicly available by COPA.

Since the start of 2021, COPA has called for the Chicago Police Department to suspend 1,074 officers, though the lengths of those proposed suspensions were not known. Meanwhile, the agency has recommended CPD fire 188 officers in the past four years, according to agency data.

A former Cook County prosecutor and domestic violence victim advocate, Kersten also reflected on her often fraught relationship with other entities in the citys political, criminal justice and law enforcement apparatus.

What I know to be certain about this issue is that society has forced it into this binary where youre either for or against somehow, as opposed to understanding that, truly, to do this work, to do this kind of accountability reform work, its not one or the other. Its not either-or. Its not pro-police or against, Kersten said.

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Its all of the above, she added. Supporting police means holding police accountable. Holding police accountable sometimes means exonerating or clearing an officer.

More recently, Kersten has faced allegations  leveled by former COPA investigators  of harboring and fostering an anti-police bias within the agency. A whistleblower lawsuit against COPA, filed last year by Matthew Haynam, a former COPA deputy chief administrator, remains pending in Cook County Circuit Court.

John Catanzara, president of the Fraternal Order of Police, the union representing rank-and-file CPD officers, previously told the Tribune that the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability was preparing to hold a no-confidence vote to trigger Kerstens ouster by the City Council.

The citys municipal code stipulates that the CCPSA may call for a no-confidence vote in COPAs chief administrator only if just cause exists. Following Kerstens resignation, the Tribune submitted a Freedom of Information Act request to the CCPSA for records relevant to Kerstens exit. As of Friday, that request had yet to be fulfilled.

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After Kerstens departure was made public, the CCPSA announced a nationwide search to find the next chief of COPA.

For Chicagos police accountability system to succeed, people who bring complaints to COPA and members of the Chicago Police Department who are the subject of COPA investigations, must all believe that COPAs processes are fair, effective, and equitable, CCPSA President Anthony Driver previously said in a statement.

In mid-2023 COPA was at the center of another firestorm. In May, as the city was struggling to address the migrant busing crisis, the agency announced it received a complaint that accused a CPD officer of engaging in sexual misconduct with an underage migrant who was housed at a West Side police station. No victims or witnesses were found, and the accused officers name was never publicly revealed.

CPDs frustrations with Kersten were put on full display during the February 2024 meeting of the Chicago Police Board. It was then that CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling excoriated COPA for, he said, leaning on personal opinions and speculation.

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When we speculate, when we add our personal opinions, then those penalties become punitive and unfair and unfair to the officers, Snelling said last year. What were seeing are egregious penalties for extremely minor infractions.

Snelling and the Police Departments general counsel, Scott Spears, noted, too, that in the first two months of 2024 COPA had recommended CPD fire dozens of officers, an unusually high total for January and February.

Kersten later explained that COPA, working to decrease caseloads for its investigators, had undertaken a timeliness initiative to close out older cases. Whats more, Kersten said, the recently approved collective bargaining agreement between the city and FOP forced COPA to conclude misconduct investigations more than 18 months old.

Weeks later, the fatal shooting of Dexter Reed  who shot an officer before he was killed in a hail of gunfire  proved to be another inflection point. In records released to the media, COPA disclosed that the Harrison District (11th) tactical team involved in the Reed shooting was under investigation for allegedly carrying out unjustified traffic stops.

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Ald. Nick Sposato, 38th, later complained about Kerstens media appearances in a letter to the citys Office of the Inspector General.

COPA was created in 2017 to replace the Independent Police Review Authority after the U.S. Department of Justice investigated CPD following the killing of Laquan McDonald by former Officer Jason Van Dyke three years earlier.

It was McDonalds death and the subsequent release of the dash-cam footage depicting the shooting that drew Kersten, an Evanston native, to work within the citys police accountability structure.

I dont think anything about the last eight years of my time at COPA and almost four years leading the agency has in any way changed what brought me to this work, Kersten said. Its just enhanced it and really crystallized the need, I think, to continue to have consistent efforts at reform.
Waref Kumayha, president of the Silk Road Institute for Studies and Research in Lebanon, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Beirut, Lebanon, on Feb. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich)

BEIRUT, March 3 (Xinhua) -- China's remarkable advancements in technological innovation stand as a valuable inspiration for Global South countries, said Waref Kumayha, president of the Silk Road Institute for Studies and Research in Lebanon.

"China has made remarkable strides in technological innovation, green energy and digital infrastructure. These advancements not only strengthen the resilience of its economy but also offer valuable experiences for countries of the Global South," he said.

Kumayha also highlighted China's leading role in renewable energy. "China's investment in solar and wind power, along with advanced batteries and green hydrogen, places itself at the forefront of the global energy transition," he said, adding that China's journey toward high-quality development is setting a global example in innovation and sustainability.

Speaking of the Belt and Road Initiative, Kumayha sees it as a symbol of China's commitment to openness and cooperation. "By improving the business environment, expanding free trade zones, and fostering global partnerships, China continues to attract foreign investment and stabilize international supply chains," he said.

Closely following the agendas of this year's "two sessions," he noted that the sessions will set the direction for the country's development this year, addressing issues of China's sustainability, innovation and industrial modernization.

"The emphasis on strengthening the rule of law, supporting social justice and driving economic reforms reflects China's vision of inclusive and future-oriented development," he said.

The annual session of the top political advisory body, the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, will commence on Tuesday. The session of the top legislature, the National People's Congress, will open on Wednesday.

In the interview, Kumayha also spoke highly of China's model of "whole-process people's democracy," which he described as a consultative system ensuring that legislation reflects the aspirations of society.

"It's a form of governance that combines public participation with practical decision-making, and it helps build national consensus," he said.

Kumayha also expressed optimism about China's future economic trajectory. "With a clear focus on innovation, sustainability and global cooperation, China is not only enhancing its own economic vitality but also contributing to the stability and growth of the world economy," he said. 

Waref Kumayha, president of the Silk Road Institute for Studies and Research in Lebanon, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Beirut, Lebanon, on Feb. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich)

Waref Kumayha, president of the Silk Road Institute for Studies and Research in Lebanon, poses for a photo during an interview with Xinhua in Beirut, Lebanon, on Feb. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Bilal Jawich)
BOCA RATON  Describing it as one of the most significant year-to-year drops Florida has seen, state and local officials announced a 46% drop in opioid overdose deaths in Palm Beach County last year compared to in 2023.

The county reported 224 confirmed opioid deaths in 2024, compared to 414 in 2023, according to statistics from the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner's Office. The office has not released a final total for 2024, as 13 cases from November and December are still under review.

But officials hosting a forum on the opioid epidemic Tuesday at Florida Atlantic University said the reported decline shows signs of progress.

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"This is a historic drop in deaths," said Andrae Bailey, founder and CEO of the Orlando-based organization, Project Opioid, which hosted the forum. "It means that what the community is doing here is working. I think what's clear is the distribution of naloxone, along with community partners offering treatment for people who are struggling, it's working."

The Florida Shuffle: State's failure to oversee addiction treatment leaves patients in deadly danger

Former Palm Beach County commissioner Melissa McKinlay and former State Attorney Dave Aronberg were among those who spoke during the forum, discussing the county's efforts to stem the opioid crisis.

Aronberg, who ended his tenure as state attorney in January after serving three terms, reflected on his time in the office, including the formation of the county's Sober Homes Task Force nearly a decade ago to combat unscrupulous treatment facilities.

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"We were able to make the progress we have accomplished by shutting the pill mills, passing state laws," he said. "By shutting down the drug treatment centers that were rogue. By shutting down the sober homes that were unscrupulous."

Aronberg said the number of emergency calls to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue for suspected overdoses has significantly declined since the task force was formed in 2016.

From the courts: Sober home owner's 'lies' earn new trial for doctor accused of millions in insurance fraud

When asked what solutions he would propose to fight the opioid crisis growing forward, Aronberg stressed the need for reforms at the federal level, in particular changes to the reimbursement model for treatment providers under the Affordable Care Act.

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"I would change the Affordable Care Act from an old school fee-per-service reimbursement model, where the more services you provide, the more money you get paid, and I would change it to what have now for everything else within our health care system that Medicare pays for," he said.

"We have outcome-based reimbursement so the better hospitals with better results get paid more.  We've got to create some sort of mechanism to reward the good providers and punish the bad ones."

Opioid deaths declining as total overdoses continue to rise, officials say

Andrae Bailey, founder and CEO of Project Opioid, speaks during an event on Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025 at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton. Officials announced a 46 percent decreased in opioid overdose deaths for Palm Beach County in 2024 from the previous year.

McKinlay said the decline in opioid deaths is encouraging, but stressed that the county and state continue to face challenges as newer illicit drugs become available.

She noted a significant jump in overdose deaths in the county nearly a decade ago. According to federal Centers for Disease Control & Prevention statistics dating to 2013, drug overdose deaths in Palm Beach County rose from 335 cases in 2015 to a peak of 636 cases in 2017.

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"I'm not going to forget that graph that at one point showed that number in the low 300s, and what it did two years later, almost 650 people who lost their lives," McKinlay said.

"The drug dealers will find a new drug. That drug will be resistant to Narcan. We need to make sure that we have resources in place so we never see that 600-plus number again. "

Bailey said that while the number of overdose deaths has declined, drug overdoses in general have increased, a trend seen statewide.

"People are still struggling with drugs and alcohol at a historic rate," he said. "The mental health crisis is driving that. On one hand, we have to applaud the reduction in deaths. On the other hand, we have to realize that people are still struggling with drugs more than ever."

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Julius Whigham II is a criminal justice and public safety reporter for The Palm Beach Post. You can reach him at jwhigham@pbpost.com and follow him on Twitter at @JuliusWhigham. Help support our work: Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Opioid overdose deaths down sharply in Palm Beach County during 2024
A United Airlines flight had to make an emergency landing in Waco, Texas, on Sunday evening after it hit severe turbulence that injured five passengers, officials said.

SkyWest Flight 5690, which was operating as United Express, a United Airlines regional flight service network, took off from Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri at 4:48 p.m. CT and was headed to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, according to data on FlightAware.com.

The Bombardier CRJ-200 experienced turbulence and had to make an emergency landing at Waco Regional Airport, SkyWest said in a statement.

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SkyWest did not clarify where the flight hit rough air.

"Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital," the statement read. "SkyWest and United are making sure all customers get the care they need and dispatched another aircraft to fly the customers from Waco to Houston."

The five passengers had minor injuries, the airline said. There were 29 passengers and three crew members on the flight.

The Waco Fire Department responded to the plane with five units and 13 personnel, acting Fire Chief Robby Bergerson said.

A flight took off from Waco to Houston at 1:17 a.m. CT Monday, according to FlightAware.com.

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It is yet another aviation incident that has made news recently.

On Saturday, a FedEx cargo plane traveling from Newark, New Jersey, to Indianapolis struck a bird during takeoff, prompting an emergency landing.

A week ago, a Delta Air Lines flight returned to Atlanta after its crew reported possible smoke in the aircraft.

The day before that, an American Airlines flight traveling from New York to New Delhi was diverted to Rome after a bomb threat was made against the aircraft.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
(NewsNation)  A United Airlines flight made an emergency landing in Waco, Texas, on Sunday evening after experiencing severe turbulence that injured five people on board, according to media reports.

NBC News wrote that SkyWest flight 5690, which had been operating as United Express, which is in United Airlines regional flight service network, took off from Missouris Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri at 4:48 p.m. C.T. It was headed to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas, per data on FlightAware.com.

Second email to federal workers comes with caveat

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While in the air, the plane, a Bombardier CRJ-200, started getting turbulence that hurt five passengers, causing it to land at Waco Regional Airport, SkyWest Airlines said in a statement to NBC. There were 29 passengers and three crew members, NBC wrote. The five people injured were taken to the hospital, SkyWests statement said.

Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital, SkyWest told NBC. SkyWest and United are making sure all customers get the care they need and dispatched another aircraft to fly the customers from Waco to Houston.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
A CNN poll taken before the contentious Trump-Zelensky meeting shows that most Americans are unhappy with how President Donald Trump is doing his job. Overall, 52% disapprove of his performance while 48% approve.

Heres what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day.

1. Zelensky-Trump fallout

President Donald Trump is set to address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday for the first time in his second presidential term. It will be an opportunity for Trump to reassure voters about his leadership just days after a catastrophic White House meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. On Sunday, European leaders held an emergency summit in London to rally support for Ukraine as British Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to wrestle control of peace negotiations away from the US. Russian officials and state media have expressed glee at the highly public diplomatic breakdown. The White House, meanwhile, is making clear it views the showdown as an overwhelming win that underscores Trumps America first leadership.

2. Oscar winners

Hollywoods glitz and glamour were on full display at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday. Sean Bakers film Anora won five Oscars, including best picture and best actress for star Mikey Madison. The independent film, which follows a Brooklyn sex worker and her whirlwind romance with the son of a Russian oligarch, also took home awards for writing, editing and directing. Other major winners were Adrien Brody, who won his second best actor Oscar for his role in The Brutalist; Zoe Saldana, who won best supporting actress for Emilia Perez; and Kieran Culkin, who won best supporting actor for A Real Pain. View CNNs Oscars photo gallery to see some of the best moments of the night.

3. Wildfires

More than 175 wildfires are burning across the Carolinas, fueled by dry and windy conditions. The Carolina Forest Fire, about five miles north of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is estimated to be 1,600 acres and 30% contained, the South Carolina Forestry Commission said Sunday. A passenger aboard a flight into Myrtle Beach on Saturday night captured stunning video of smoke and fire billowing up into the sky from the plane window. Dozens of other wildfires in the region flared up over the weekend  many of which have since been contained. Firefighters should get a break today and Tuesday as forecasts call for more humidity and lighter winds.

4. Measles outbreak

A measles outbreak in Texas has grown to nearly 150 cases, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. Last week, state health officials announced the outbreaks first death  an unvaccinated school-aged child who had been hospitalized in Lubbock. It is the first measles death in the US in a decade. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in an opinion piece on Fox News on Sunday that parents should consult with health care providers to understand their options to get the MMR vaccine for their children. Kennedy, who has a history of anti-vaccine comments, did not explicitly recommend the vaccine. Rather, he said the outbreak was a call to action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health.

5. Blue Ghost

An uncrewed spacecraft called Blue Ghost successfully landed on the moon Sunday, making Texas-based Firefly Aerospace only the second private-sector company ever to complete such a feat. The lunar lander touched down on the moons near side around 3:30 a.m. ET and captured stunning footage during its descent. In February 2023, another Texas-based space company, Intuitive Machines, became the first private-sector company to soft-land a vehicle on the moon, but broadly speaking, about half of all lunar landing attempts have ended in failure. Blue Ghost is part of a privately owned fleet helping NASA in its aim to return astronauts to the moon later this decade.

BREAKFAST BROWSE

US figure skaters participate in Legacy on Ice tribute

Little more than a month after a tragic air disaster took the lives of 28 members of the US figure skating community, emotions were on full display Sunday in Washington, DC, for the Legacy on Ice tribute.

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Microsoft outage leaves thousands without access to email and apps

Users have experienced off-and-on issues with Outlook in recent weeks. Read about the latest outage that impacted Microsoft services on Saturday.

This boba chain has more outlets than McDonalds and Starbucks

A budget-friendly drinks giant known for its bubble tea offerings has overtaken McDonalds and Starbucks as the worlds largest food and beverage chain by number of stores.

Talk to the sand: German city cracks down on bad nudist etiquette

Beach wardens in Germany are issuing bans to clothed troublemakers on nudist beaches.

5 things this ER doctor would like you to start doing

CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen recommends five things to do to stay healthy and avoid relying on the emergency room.

TODAYS NUMBER

48,000

Thats at least how many people have died in Gaza over the last 17 months of war in the enclave. On Sunday, Israel said it will block Gaza humanitarian aid until Hamas agrees to new conditions.

TODAYS QUOTE

From here, war appears even more absurd.

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 Pope Francis, appealing for peace in Sundays Angelus prayer, days after he experienced a sudden respiratory episode in the hospital where he has been battling pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff is now in stable condition but doctors are continuing to guard his prognosis, according to Vatican sources who said the risk of crisis remains.

TODAYS WEATHER

Check your local forecast here>>>

AND FINALLY 

Window washer platform shatters skyscraper window

Bystanders captured a terrifying moment in New York City of window washers trapped in high winds. Watch the video here.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Editors note: This is an edited version of a guide for our members published on Feb. 24, 2025. If you would like to join a community of people united by wanting to help Ukraine, consider becoming a member today.

U.S. President Donald Trump's public spat with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Feb. 28 threw the future of Washington's support for Ukraine in the air, but led to a renewed outpouring of support for Ukraine across the world.

As Russias war in Ukraine enters its fourth year, and Trump suspends military aid entirely, here are some ways to help Ukraine and stand with Ukrainians.

Contact your representatives

Contact your elected representatives, regardless of where you live. In the U.S., the American Coalition for Ukraine has a tool to find your members of Congress and recommended messaging for what to ask your government representatives.

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Finding a local group organizing political support for Ukraine in your country or city is a great starting point for getting more involved. You can also find and support candidates who support Ukraine in upcoming elections.

Avoid companies operating in Russia

Its also possible to boycott international companies that still operate within Russia. The Kyiv School of Economics has made a list of corporations that continue to do business in Russia.

The mobile version of the website even has a barcode scanner, so you can easily find the details about a products parent company. Also, consider supporting Ukrainian brands or local businesses. You can check out our Ukrainian gift guide for inspiration.

Protesters attend a demonstration in support of Ukraine in Rome, Italy, on March 2, 2025. (Riccardo De Luca/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Donate to Ukrainian organizations

Donate to organizations in Ukraine. Some well-known charities involved in supporting those on the front line are Come Back Alive, the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation, and the Hospitallers.

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With the suspension of USAID, Ukrainian civil society and humanitarian organizations also need your support: Ukraine was the largest recipient of U.S. economic aid, receiving over $14 billion in 2023.

Protest in support of Ukraine

Join marches or demonstrations in support of Ukraine. The Ukrainian World Congress compiled a map showing the organizers of events on Feb. 24 to commemorate the start of the full-scale invasion. You can discover organizations near you and see if they are planning future events.

Engage with Ukrainian media, culture, and art

Part of Russias goal in the war is to destroy Ukrainian culture. Heres a list (compiled by one of our members) showing creative ways to help Ukraine, highlighting organizations, projects, and artists, from podcasts about the war to resources for learning Ukrainian.

You can also learn more about Ukrainian history and culture on the Explaining Ukraine section of our website.

The Power Within  order the Kyiv Independents first-ever magazine now.

pre-order now

The Power Within Book

Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support us

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  On the night of March 2 and 3, 2020, one supercell thunderstorm produced ten tornadoes across Tennessee, eight of which occurred in Middle Tennessee. A total of 25 people were killed by this storm. One in Benton County, two in Davidson County, three in Wilson County and nineteen in Putnam County.

See a radar animation here.

The two strongest and most damaging tornadoes were an EF-3 that tracked over 60 miles across the Nashville Metro Area and Wilson County eastward to Smith County, as well as an even stronger EF-4 that caused severe damage in central Putnam County between Baxter and Cookeville.

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Wind gusts & strong storms Tuesday

Germantown area of Nashville (WKRN)

Mt. Juliet (WKRN)

Cookeville (WKRN)

Krissy Hurley, the National Weather Services Meteorologist in Charge explained how complex the situation was.

This event was one of those low probability type of happenings, but if it did materialize it was going to be high impact. And thats exactly what we saw, Hurley said.

Hurley said they realized the gravity of the situation as the storm approached Nashville.

Radar courtesy of the National Weather Service

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This is going into the Metro area, very heavily populated, Hurley said. It was of those events where your heart kind of sinks because you have a significant large tornado in the middle of the night striking where people are sleeping.

And as the storms moved into Putnam County, things only got worse.

Forever 19: Portland community mourns teen who died after shooting

It went from EF-0 tornado, about 70 mph to an EF-4, 75 mph in three minutes, Hurley said. And when we have tornadoes like this, it is so imperative that you get that warning and you take action. Because these tornadoes can intensify very quickly.

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Hurley pointed out that many people had their phones silenced that night and did not hear the warnings. She says to keep your phones on and have a backup like a NOAA Weather Radio in case cell phone towers are damaged, or the internet fails.

With 25 fatalities, this tornado outbreak was the worst in Middle Tennessee since the February 5, 2008 Super Tuesday outbreak when 22 people died. It reminds us that we have to be prepared and have a plan in place as we head into our spring severe weather season.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  March marks five years since Rhode Island identified its first case of COVID-19.

Then-Gov. Gina Raimondo announced the news that changed everyones lives across the state.

We discovered what we believe is the first case of coronavirus here in the state of Rhode Island, Raimondo said on March 1, 2020.

The first cases of the virus in the state were traced back to a school trip in mid-February of 2020 organized by St. Raphaels Academy, a Catholic school in Pawtucket. The trip included a stop in Italy, which, at that time, saw a major outbreak of the virus.

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ALSO READ: Flu activity now highest in 15 years

A week later, on March 9, 2020, Raimondo declared a state of emergency, saying it would provide more tools to address the situation.

Lockdowns were eventually issued, schools were shut down, businesses were shuttered, and face masks and social distancing became the new normal.

The states first COVID-19 vaccines were administered to frontline healthcare workers at Rhode Island Hospital on Dec. 14, 2020. In the following months, residents also started to get vaccinated.

More than 3,600 Rhode Islanders have died after contracting the virus.

Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts.

Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app.

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Daily Roundup

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com.
It is not only President Trump who believes the mainstream media is fake news. In fact, most of his fans agree, with a majority of Republicans saying that they have no trust in the mainstream media, according to recent Gallup polling.

The key takeaway: 59% of Republicans polled by Gallup in late 2024 responded none at all when asked if they have faith that the media reports the news fully, accurately and fairly. That slice has more than doubled in size since 2015  the year President Trump first announced his candidacy for the 2016 election  when 27% of Republicans said they had no trust in the media.

Another 29% of Republicans answered that they have not much confidence in the media  bringing it to 88% of self-identified conservatives who have little or no trust in the media.

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It is also worth noting how far apart Democrats and Republicans are on this issue; only 6% of Democrats told Gallup that they had no trust in the mass media to report stories accurately. That figure among Dems hit a high-point in 2015, when 16% said they had no trust in the media.

Gallup, which initially released its media survey results in October 2024, took a deeper dive into its results last week. The chart below shows how Republican have become increasingly disillusioned with the media in the past decade.

The same survey found American trust in the mainstream media is at an all-time low, with only 31% of citizens saying they trust the media to accurately report stories. In 1976, soon after the Watergate Scandal, 72% of Americans said they trusted the media.

As TheWrap has previously reported, the decline in trust in the mainstream media has led to more people turning to YouTube for news.

Gallups survey data is based on 1,007 respondents who were at least 18 years old.

The post 59% of Republicans Believe the Media Is Fake News appeared first on TheWrap.
BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- China hopes that the relevant parties can find a sustainable and lasting solution to the Ukraine crisis that takes into account each other's concerns, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Monday.

Spokesperson Lin Jian made the remarks at a daily press briefing when asked to comment on talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which turned into a heated exchange last Friday.

Lin said that China will continue to play a constructive role for the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis and the realization of peace.

In response to a question about whether China would send peacekeepers to Ukraine as some analysts have suggested, Lin said China did not start the Ukraine crisis, nor is it a party to it.

"We support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis," Lin said, noting that China hopes that the relevant parties can find a sustainable and lasting solution that takes into account each other's concerns. 
Volunteers have saved 650 toads from a massacre in an East Sussex village.

The residents of Litlington, near Eastbourne, have mobilised patrols to protect migrating toads as they cross the main road.

Hundreds of toads, which come out of hibernation in March, are run over in the village every year as they crawl towards fresh water to spawn.

Volunteers are now manning a 2.5-mile stretch of road, urging motorists to slow down and weave around the amphibians.

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This is our first year and we just have to get it as right as we can, said Penny Aeberhard, who has organised the initiative.

After the first night, we realised that the big massacres were happening as people were travelling from south to north as theyre coming home from work, Monday to Friday.

Theyre driving too fast  you have to go at 15 to 20mph maximum to avoid these little critters.

The volunteers have helped 650 toads across the road so far this year but have recorded 116 deaths.

Ms Aeberhard told BBC News the patrol was not for the faint-hearted because of the busy traffic

Too dark, too cold, too wet, too slippery, fall into a pothole, break an ankle or whatever, or get hit by a car, she said.

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Vanessa Rowlands, one of the volunteers, said that when she was not patrolling, she felt slightly anxious that Im not going to be out for the rest of them.

Coming out and just saving some toads has been really, really good for my mental health, she said, adding: We have made a big difference.

Toad patrols are organised across Britain by the charity Froglife, which last year helped 115,117 of the animals cross roads during spawning season.

There are more than 200 patrols across the UK. In some parts of the country, roads are completely closed at night to help toads get to their breeding grounds.

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Charlcombe Lane near Bath, Somerset, is closed until March 25 between dusk and dawn to allow volunteers to pick up toads from the road and take them to safety.

More than 3,000 toads were saved from the half-mile stretch of road last year.

The Charlcombe Toad Rescue Group, which organises the effort, has led a reduction in the toad casualty rate from 62 per cent to just 6 per cent.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Eight people, including five children, are being assisted after a fire broke out on Wyoming Avenue Monday morning, according to fire officials.

Crews responded to 63 Wyoming, off of East Ferry Street, just after 5 a.m. Monday. The fire started on the second floor and extended to the attic.

Damages are being estimated at $200,000. The eight people affected are being helped by the Red Cross.

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The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Latest Local News

Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
Russia launched an attack on the city of Kharkiv on March 2, injuring eight people, Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported.

According to Terekhov, among the injured there is a seven-year-old child.

Following the drone strike, three houses were damaged, and close to 150 windows were shattered.

Also, a fire broke out in a high-rise building, and was later extinguished.

Emergency services and volunteers are currently working at the scene.

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Kharkiv Oblast in Ukraine's northeast is a regular target of Russian missile, drone, and glide bomb attacks from across the border.

Kharkiv is located less than 30 miles from the Russian border.

Read also: 7 injured in Russian drone attack on Kharkiv medical facility

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) is getting behind a Congressional effort to save a legacy Caribbean trade preference program from lapsing in eight months.

Congressman Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) this week introduced the HELP Extension Acta bipartisan bill that would extend the Haiti HOPE-HELP trade programs for a decade.

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The HOPE Act of 2006 and the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act of 2008 (HOPE II) gave the nation duty-free treatment for an array of apparel products. Meanwhile, the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Act, signed into law in 2010 following a devastating earthquake, expanded the preference program to include additional textile and apparel products as the country sought to rebuild and develop its apparel sector, which has become a critical economic engine.

The HOPE and HELP programs have proven to be mutually beneficial to the United States and Haiti, Rep. Murphy said upon the bills introduction. Shifting our supply chains away from China to neighboring nations provides stability for American consumers and businesses.

Likewise, a robust trade relationship with Haiti has given the embattled nation much-needed economic opportunity, providing a pathway to future peace and stability, he added. The programs are set to expire on Sept. 25.

According to AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar, its critical that the extension be passed in a timely manner. There was some momentum in December, when a HOPE-HELP extension was added to the bipartisan spending bill, known as a continuing resolution. While the government narrowly avoided a shutdown, the trade preference program was cut from the final bill.

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According to Lamar, the Congressional foot-dragging on an extension has already contributed to massive job loss in Haitis apparel sector.

Theres a lot of, theres a lot of business thats draining away from Haiti right now, he told Sourcing Journal. A couple years ago, there were about 60,000 apparel jobs in Haiti, and thats dropped to a little bit more than one-third of that. And the reason is that theres a lot of uncertainty about whether or not the program is going to get renewed.

Haiti HOPE-HELP has support across the political spectrum, and the program is largely viewed as successful due to its high utilization rates. About 70 percent of the apparel imported into the U.S. from Haiti enters duty-free under the program. But some companies have said, We cant deal with that level of uncertainty, and then theyre moving their production other places. Many have stayed, but that number is dropping as the situation continues to remain unpredictable, Lamar said.

In recent years, Haiti has faced civil and political unrest and gang violence that has disrupted commerce and daily life for its citizens. In addition to having questions about the future duty-free status of their imports, brands are also worried about a security crisis that has rendered production and sourcing problematic.

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There are efforts to make sure the security situation stabilizes and improves, he said, pointing to the presence of Kenyan peacekeepers sent to help restore safety and order in the island nation.

The answer for the U.S. is not to turn its back on the country in a time of need, he added. Doing so could worsen the very migration issues that the nation is currently trying to mitigate, like those at the Southern border. Now, Congress has the power to utilize tariffsor in this case, the absence of dutiesto leverage better controls on illegal migration patterns or migration pressures, the AAFA lead said. Haiti is a classic example of how that can be done effectively.

A preference program is quite literally a tool to leverage behavior and activity by another country, he added. Part of the programs appeal is that it offers American producers of inputs an avenue for business, too. At a time when were trying to get U.S. textile companies more business in the Western Hemisphere, Haiti is a place where yarns and fabrics and zippers and buttons and things from the U.S. textile industry are used.

Textiles and T-shirt company Gildan praised the extension bill for this reason.

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Gildan is pleased to see the introduction of HOPE-HELP renewal legislation, which plays a vital role in supporting U.S. textile jobs and strengthening regional supply chains, vice president of commodities Marc Doyon said. By driving demand for American-grown cotton and yarns within Gildans vertically integrated supply chain, the bill bolsters U.S. manufacturing while also promoting nearshoring and maintaining jobs in Haiti. Renewing HOPE-HELP is essential to continuing this mutually beneficial relationship.

The further development of other production markets also allows the U.S. to continue to diversify away from Asia sourcing, Lamar said. If you think about whats going on in the sourcing world right now, everybodys under threat for tariffs. We dont know what the relationship with China is going to be like, we dont know what the relationship between the U.S. and other countries will be likebut the relationship between the U.S. and Haiti, if it remains secure, gives them an opportunity to grow and attract a lot more business.

AAFA has consistently lobbied for a ten-year extension of HOPE-HELP, which Lamar believes is necessary. Its our recommendation, because you really want that long-term predictability to support trade and investment, he explained.

And given the turmoil the country has seen in recent years, the economic security provided by a long-term trade agreement is critical to rebuilding and expanding the textile and apparel sector. According to the U.S. Department of State, During the last 40 years, the apparel industry has played a central role in Haitis overall economy, accounting for 80 to 90 percent of the countrys total exports which helped raise $1.01 billion in revenue in 2020. The department referred to HOPE-HELP as cornerstones of the textile sector.

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In a developing sourcing market, Its really hard to turn things on overnight, Lamar said. U.S. brands and Haitian manufacturers both need the assurance of a trade agreement in order to ramp up production capacity again and ensure continued business in the years to come.

Despite Congress penchant for pushing trade program renewals to the back burnerthink the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which is also slated to expirethe AAFA lead said hes optimistic that HOPE-HELP will see the support it needs to get over the finish line.

Theres definitely an urgency, people are talking about it, and it has traction, he said.
(Bloomberg) -- Factory owners across Asia are increasingly flagging potential supply chain snarls and the risk of weakening demand as a result of President Donald Trumps escalating tariff war  even as factory activity has broadly improved.

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While there were gains in February activity in some regions as measured by the S&P purchasing managers indexes, the country-level details show there are emerging signs of stress related to levies.

Trump has announced tariffs on a number of countries and products that go far beyond China, which was the target of his first trade war in 2018-19. US levies on Mexico and Canada are set to take effect this week just as a doubled duty rate on Chinese goods also kicks in. Meanwhile, uncertainty has increased as the US administration is also urging other countries to slap their own tariffs on China.

The darker outlook is reflected clearly in figures from manufacturing-heavy Vietnam, where many producers relocated after 2018. Activity contracted for a third straight month in February as new orders plummeted at the fastest pace since September, with firms reporting the fourth straight monthly decline in new business abroad. Factory managers also boosted purchases of key inputs amid uncertainty around availability and supply-chain delays, according to S&P.

In Indonesia, activity picked up but was largely driven by local orders. New export business declined amid heightened global trade uncertainty, according to an S&P statement. Thailands factories reported an expansion in February, too, though managers there also increasingly cited shipping delays as supplier delivery times lengthened for a fourth month.

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Output in Japan fell in the month amid cooling demand across the board. Confidence in the year-ahead outlook weakened to the lowest since mid-2020, with firms citing the risks of US protectionist policies and a slower-than-anticipated economic recovery.

There were some countries that benefited from increased demand. In chip and technology making-hub Taiwan, where output expanded in the month, some companies were keen to buy materials ahead of anticipated sales, according to S&P. New international orders were led by Europe and the US, where there have already been signs of stockpiling and increased orders in advance of new tariffs.

Activity across Southeast Asia rose at the fastest pace since July, and confidence among companies surged. The rosier outlook was led by the biggest uptick in new orders in six months. In China, the Caixin/S&P Global index rose on the back of increased output and new orders.

PMI data for India and Singapore are released later today, while figures for South Korea and Hong Kong come later this week.

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Television ads supporting Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate Susan Crawford accuse her opponent, Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, of giving "a plea deal to a man caught with thousands of files of child pornography featuring children as young as 6, after getting thousands in campaign contributions from the man's lawyer."

Schimel's campaign said he "has never allowed contributions to influence his actions." Schimel, a conservative, and Crawford, a liberal Dane County circuit judge, face each other in the April 1 election that will determine the ideological balance of the court.

Here's what to know about the case, which played out during Schimel's time as Waukesha County district attorney.

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At issue is the case filed in June 2013 against Andrew Lambrecht, then 21, who was charged with one count of possession of child pornography.

More: TV ads slam Susan Crawford over sex assault case at a public swimming pool. Here's what to know

According to the criminal complaint, police were investigating an individual online who was offering to share child pornography and traced it to Lambrecht's computer. On the computer, police found "several thousand files which were indicative of child pornography."

Online court records indicate a series of prosecutors handled the case and that in court hearings late in the year Lambrecht's attorney, Matthew Huppertz, said he needed time to "further discuss" with Schimel and then said he was still waiting for a response from the DA.

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In October 2013, Schimel formally announced his plans to run for state attorney general.

In May 2014, Huppertz wrote to Schimel referencing "several informal conferences" they had regarding the case and laying out the plea agreement.

Under that agreement, Lambrecht would plead guilty or no contest to the single count of possession of child pornography and Schimel's office would not issue any other charges based on the materials seized under the search warrant.

At sentencing, the prosecutor would recommend the minimum mandatory sentence of three years in prison followed by three years of extended supervision, with standard conditions for a sex offender.

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Schimel won the attorney general election in November 2014 and was sworn in in early January 2015.

It was later in January that a plea hearing took place in Lambrecht's case, with court records citing Huppertz's memo to Schimel outlining the agreement.

Lambrecht pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography and was convicted.

He was sentenced that March to three years in prison followed by two years on extended supervision, with conditions that included registering as a sex offender.

Between Schimel's 2013 campaign announcement and October 2014, Huppertz contributed $5,875 to Schimel's campaign, state campaign finance records show.

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It wasn't his first time donating to Schimel's campaign  records show Huppertz donated a total of $2,525 to Schimel between August 2008 and August 2012  but his donations increased in size and frequency during Schimel's run for attorney general.

Records do not show he has donated to Schimel since 2014.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: What to know about TV ad slamming Brad Schimel in child porn case
Mar. 3PECOS  Advocates are worried about a federal proposal to protect the Upper Pecos Watershed from mining for the next 20 years after the Bureau of Land Management postponed a public meeting meant to collect feedback on the proposal.

More than 50 people gathered in the Pecos Village Hall on Wednesday night. They were supposed to attend a meeting hosted by the Bureau of Land Management about potentially withdrawing mineral rights from 164,000 National Forest lands and 1,330 acres of BLM-managed lands near the Pecos River headwaters. When the BLM meeting was postponed, advocacy group New Mexico Wild held a community meeting instead to gather letters in support of the mineral withdrawal.

"We want our future generations to continue to thrive here. Pecos is very special, not just for us, but for Jemez Pueblo, Tesuque Pueblo, who have been doing their own work behind the scenes to say that this place is special to them as well," said Ralph Vigil, a northern organizer for NM Wild and a Pecos farmer.

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BLM postponed the meeting a week before it was set to take place and has not set a new date yet. The agency is still encouraging the public to submit comments on the proposal until March 17. The two-year process for deciding if mining should not be allowed on the land was started by former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and former President Joe Biden in December.

The people in Pecos Village know how a mine can leave a legacy of contamination long after closing. The Tererro Mine operated from 1926 to 1939, mining lead and zinc north of Pecos Village. After the mine closed, mine and mill waste was used to fill campgrounds, trailheads and at the Lisboa Springs Fish Hatchery. The mine waste led to water contamination, which in 1991 killed off more than 90,000 trout at the hatchery.

A different mining company, Comexico LLC, applied for exploratory drilling permits in 2019 to look for gold, copper, zinc, lead and silver, and has acquired mining claims throughout the Pecos headwaters.

Pecos Mayor Ted Benavidez said he is concerned about the long-term health and economic impacts of mining near the Pecos River. Camping and fishing near the river are significant economic drivers for the village.

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"I believe that we all need to work together to keep the Pecos River," he said. "It's one of the best fishing areas around. People love it."

Representatives from both of the state's U.S. senators and Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez attended the community meeting. The three sponsored legislation in the last session of Congress, the Pecos Watershed Protection Act, to grant permanent protection for the watershed. The entire delegation advocated for the mineral withdrawal.

"New Mexicans who have been united for years in calling for protections for this cherished watershed deserve to have their voices heard. The withdrawal process would protect clean water and safeguard this region from harmful mining pollution," Sen. Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., said in a statement.

Cathy Cook is a news reporter for the Albuquerque Journal. Reach her via email at ccook@abqjournal.com.
PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP)  Pakistani and Afghan forces traded fire overnight at a key northwestern border crossing that has been closed for more than a week over a dispute between the two neighbors, officials said Monday.

The Interior Ministry in Kabul said one Afghan security personnel was killed and another was injured in the incident at the Torkham crossing, which has been shut for 11 days due to Pakistan disputing Afghanistan's construction of a new border post there.

Both countries have in the past closed Torkham and the southwestern Chaman border crossing, most often over deadly shootings and cross-fire. The crossings are vital for trade and travel between Pakistan and landlocked Afghanistan.

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A Pakistani official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media, said that Taliban security forces opened fire unprovoked in the early hours of Monday, targeting Pakistans border post with automatic weapons. Pakistani personnel returned fire, the official said.

The spokesman for the Interior Ministry in Kabul, Abdul Mateen Qani, said Pakistan initiated the violence and that Afghan border police had tried to resolve the issue through dialogue. But they (Pakistan) continued this fight and our security forces went into defensive mode and responded.

Qani said Pakistan also suffered casualties, without giving a figure, and damage to border posts.

Thousands of trucks and vehicles were stranded on both sides of the Torkham crossing, leaving people stuck in harsh winter conditions.

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Shakirullah Safi, the chief executive of Nangarhar Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said Afghan traders were losing $500,000 a day because of the closure.

When this gate is open, 600 to 700 vehicles travel between us and Pakistan carrying exports and imports, said Safi. There are 5,000 containers stuck on both sides and are all at a standstill. Afghan traders are suffering huge losses because they are working on both sides.
* NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the defense summit in London "a good meeting," saying "European countries are stepping up to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to fight for as long as necessary."

* While the summit has pushed Europe toward greater security commitments, the region still faces divisions over whether to deploy troops to Ukraine under a peacekeeping framework.

by Xinhua writers Zheng Bofei, Jin Jing, Larry Neild

LONDON, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Following last week's Trump-Zelensky White House clash, more than a dozen Western leaders gathered here Sunday to revive efforts for a Ukraine peace deal and propose a settlement to Washington.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the summit as a "once-in-a-generation moment for the security of Europe." Although the meeting could push the region toward greater self-reliance in security, many observers fear the measures may be too little and too late.





WAKE-UP CALL

Europe now finds itself at a moment of truth in its security strategy. Before Friday's diplomatic debacle at the White House, Russia-U.S. talks on the Ukraine crisis took place in Riyadh on Feb. 18, with neither Europe nor Ukraine given a seat at the table.

Just one week later, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a plan to impose a 25-percent tariff on all goods imported from the European Union (EU), and justified the move by claiming that the EU was formed to "screw" the United States.

Europe was in a "moment of real fragility," Starmer told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg.

This photo shows a scene during a defense summit in London, Britain, March 2, 2025. (Lauren Hurley/No 10 Downing Street/Handout via Xinhua)

Asked about the White House clash involving the duo of Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Finnish President Alexander Stubb told BBC before the summit that the breakdown was a "wake-up call" for European nations, stressing that they must adopt a cohesive strategy for the Ukraine crisis and post-conflict arrangements.

Stubb expressed frustration over shifting transatlantic ties, saying the U.S.-Europe relationship "is evolving," and "we're witnessing a more transactional United States, where the Trump administration -- rightly or wrongly -- is pursuing an 'America First' policy."

This has led European leaders to explore their own security solutions. At the Munich Security Conference last month, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pushed for an emergency clause that would allow governments to increase defense spending without being constrained by the EU's strict budget deficit rules. After Sunday's summit, she reiterated that Europe must "step up massively" and forge a common security approach.

French President Emmanuel Macron proposed on Sunday that European countries should boost their defense spending to between 3 and 3.5 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). His proposal came a few days after Starmer's announcement that Britain would increase its defense spending to 2.5 percent of its GDP by 2027 and to 3 percent in the next parliamentary term, which would mean by 2034 at the latest.

Following a bilateral meeting with Ukraine on Saturday, Britain also agreed to loan Ukraine 2.26 billion pounds (2.84 billion U.S. dollars) to bolster its defense capabilities. Shortly after the summit, Britain further committed 1.6 billion pounds (2 billion dollars) in export finance, allowing Ukraine to purchase over 5,000 air defense missiles.

More than eight years after Britain voted to depart from the EU, it has positioned itself at the forefront of European security efforts, trying to play the role of a "bridge" between Europe and the United States to secure a peace deal for Ukraine.

U.S. President Donald Trump (2nd L) welcomes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (2nd R) at the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Feb. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong)

STRENGTHENED BOND

After Sunday's summit, Starmer outlined a four-step plan to strengthen Ukraine and support peace: to maintain military aid to Ukraine while the conflict continues and increase economic pressure on Russia; to ensure that any lasting peace guarantees Ukraine's sovereignty and security, with Ukraine at the table for any negotiations; to deter "any future invasion by Russia" in the event of a peace deal; and to establish a "coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine and uphold peace in the country.

The summit's outcome was welcomed by European leaders. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called it "a good meeting," saying "European countries are stepping up to ensure Ukraine has what it needs to fight for as long as necessary."

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of NATO and said on social media on Sunday: "In recent years, we have strengthened our alliance with new members and increased defense spending. This is the path we will continue to follow."

However, doubts remain over whether Europe can fully safeguard a peace deal on its own. When asked how Britain plans to persuade more countries to join the "coalition of the willing," Starmer acknowledged that some countries may be reluctant to contribute militarily.

"I strongly feel that unless some countries move forward, we will stay in the position we're in and not be able to move forward," he said, while admitting the goal to "stay in lockstep with the United States."

Flags of European Union (EU) and Ukraine are seen at the EU headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, Feb. 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

TRANSATLANTIC DISAGREEMENTS

The EU and the Trump administration have a range of disagreements on the settlement of the Ukraine crisis, while the U.S. provision of security guarantees for Ukraine is foremost among the discussions.

Within a week before the London summit, both Macron and Starmer visited Washington to seek U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine or Europe, but failed to persuade Trump in this regard.

Trump sidestepped the question of security guarantees, expressing confidence that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, would "keep his word" if an agreement is reached. He also ruled out the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO. Ukraine's NATO membership has been a focal issue in the crisis.

Earlier on Sunday before the summit, Starmer announced that Britain, France and Ukraine will work on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States. He named three essential points to achieve "lasting peace" -- a strong Ukraine, a European element with security guarantees and a U.S. backstop, with the last one being the subject of "intense" discussion.

After the announcement of the four-step plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine at the summit, the participating leaders also agreed to meet again soon to sustain the momentum behind these efforts.

"Europe must do the heavy lifting," Starmer said, emphasizing that the agreement needs U.S. backing.

Iain Begg, a research fellow at the London School of Economics and Political Science, told Xinhua: "The real question is whether this will be enough to sway the White House. We've seen time and again that Washington can reverse its stance overnight."

Also on Sunday, Macron told a French newspaper that he was "trying to make Washington understand that disengaging from Ukraine is not in America's interest."

While the summit has pushed Europe toward greater security commitments, the region still faces divisions over whether to deploy troops to Ukraine under a peacekeeping framework.

For now, some major European countries, including Germany, Spain and Poland, remain hesitant to commit troops to Ukraine, with Britain and France taking the lead in potentially sending military forces.

Meanwhile, the EU is still in the early stages of developing a defense budget plan. Some experts noted that Europe's efforts to build its own defense capabilities may still have a long way to go.

David Galbreath, a professor of international security at the University of Bath, pointed to the U.S. military's capabilities: "The U.S. provides far sharper military capabilities, such as long-range strikes, sophisticated anti-tank systems and advanced surface-to-air missiles, than anything coming from Europe."

(Video reporters: Liu Yuxuan, Ma Ruxuan, Xia Yuanyi, Wu Lu, Zhang Boning, Jin Jing, Zheng Bofei; video editors: Hong Yan, Wei Yin, Wang Han) 
Surveying elephants is hard, risky work. Dedicated biologists have been doing this challenging task across Africa for decades.

Systematic surveying started in the late 1960s but has been sporadic, as access to remote areas takes logistical planning, funding and well-trained teams. Surveys can easily be derailed by civil unrest or lack of available survey teams. Consequently, the information on the numbers of elephants across Africa is spotty. Even for a single population, survey effort and coverage can change over the years.

Still, the efforts of governments and conservation organisations to count elephants have amassed a remarkable dataset, held by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and its African Elephant Specialist Group. Its a complex dataset, which has made it harder to see general scale trends in the numbers of elephants, until now.

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In a new study, my colleagues and I have put together data from 1,325 surveys of elephant populations  everything we could find  to evaluate how elephant numbers in Africa have changed over the last 50 years or so.

This research provides the most comprehensive assessment of trends in the two species of elephants in Africa: the forest elephant and the savanna elephant.

The results were eye opening. African elephants have experienced serious losses in contemporary times (between 1964 and 2016). The average population trend for African savanna elephants was a decline of 70%. Forest elephant populations declined by over 90%. While declines in the species had been widely recognised, understanding of the overall magnitude and regional context was lacking until now.

We found that over the past 50 years there has been a shift in the distribution of elephants across Africa. Population sizes have shifted too. Three-quarters of todays forest and savanna elephant populations are smaller than 500 individuals.

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Our team of African elephant conservation and survey data analysis experts have highlighted the areas most at risk of losing their elephant populations. Weve also provided area-specific insight to elephant conservation successes and failures. The research shows that maintaining current elephant numbers, let alone reversing declines, requires new thinking and conservation innovation.

Read more: Nigeria's last elephants -- what must be done to save them

Quantifying scales of decline

Declining elephant numbers are not surprising, given the level of ivory poaching and the degree of human population growth and associated landscape modification across Africa over the past 60 years. And this killing continues. Hundreds of elephants are illegally killed each year, according to the Monitoring of Illegal Killing of Elephants programme.

The scale of the decline merited listing savanna elephant species as endangered and forest elephant species as critically endangered.

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But this was not without controversy. In places, growing elephant populations are creating management challenges, such as in and around Chobe National Park, Botswana.

Thus, the reality at some sites does not match the overall, average trend of populations across the continent. Our analysis was structured to give insight into the diversity of trends. We also did this for the two species separately.

We were able to dissect which populations had experienced losses and which had gains, finding that trends varied by population.

What we found

We found that southern Africa experienced the greatest diversity of trends.

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Half the sites were stable or increasing over the study period. Populations in Botswana and Zimbabwe, in particular, grew robustly and now hold the majority of savanna elephants in Africa.

Increasing populations were rare in other regions. All the populations of savanna elephants in the northern part of sub-Saharan Africa showed declines. Many populations in the northern savannas of Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon and Mali have been lost. Most remaining populations in the region are under serious threat. Only remnant populations remain in the northern savannas, typically isolated from each other.

East and central Africa, where most elephants once resided, underwent serious losses over this period due to ivory poaching.

Read more: A first for large African mammals: DNA used to count Gabon's endangered forest elephants

Can we turn declines around?

Reversing the downward trend is difficult. Ivory poaching has driven large scale declines over relatively short periods of time in Africa. Stemming the ivory trade has proven difficult as it requires global recognition and action.

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Over the longer term, erosion of elephant range finishes off remnant populations. Once elephant populations are lost, an area may lose its protection, accelerating landscape changes.

Concerted efforts must be made to slow the erosion of remaining wildlands.

Despite the broad scale decline, there are numerous examples of populations that are stable or increasing. Some are even within areas with few persisting elephant populations. These successes suggest ways to reverse elephant declines: tackling habitat loss, landscape conversion and ivory poaching.

Read more: Elephants use the tips of their trunks to grasp things with great precision  how this can help robotic design

Reversing the elephant population decline

Firstly, public-private partnerships in protected area management should be considered.

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In many countries, theres not enough management capacity, leading to paper parks. These are parks that are legally gazetted but in fact are not functional. Institutional partnerships between relevant government departments and the private sector  non-governmental organisations focused on conservation  can uplift management efforts. This can also drive progress towards economic sustainability of protected areas.

We have seen several examples of this with African Parks, a non-governmental organisation that directly manages numerous protected areas across Africa with government support.

Secondly, working with neighbouring communities and land use managers to maintain the integrity of the landscape for wildlife like elephants is crucial.

Large-scale landscape planning for co-existence with elephants in lands adjacent to protected areas can take the form of tourism expansion. Land can be converted to growing crops that wildlife do not eat, like chilli. Wildlife-friendly and multi-use buffer zones can also be created.

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Thirdly, ivory poaching must be tackled. Law enforcement must function in protected areas and their surroundings. Similarly, its important to reduce demand for illegal wildlife products, and the economic pressures that drive the wildlife trade.

Africas human population will more than double over the next 50 years, putting more pressure on Africas wildlands. New efforts are needed to stop the decline of elephant populations and restore lost populations.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: George Wittemyer, Colorado State University

Read more:



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George Wittemyer receives funding from the U.S.A. National Science Foundation and Save the Elephants, a Kenya based non-profit organization. He is a professor at Colorado State University and serves as the Chief Scientist for Save the Elephants.
(WBRE/WYOU)  Attorney General Dave Sunday warns Pennsylvanians about the rise in Bitcoin scams as multiple incidents have been reported.

Over $100,000 was stolen between two people in recent Bitcoin scams in Lackawanna and Pike Counties.

The scams involve Bitcoin ATMs, or BTMs to gain access to your money.

Scammers persuade people by convincing them to make large cash withdrawals after saying to protect your money or take care of any criminal charges.

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Once the cash is withdrawn the scammer will tell you to deposit your money in a Bitcoin ATM, have you scan a code where the criminal gets access to your funds, and in most cases, make it impossible to get your money back according to the Attorney Generals Office.

Scammers will try alarm, scare, and persuade you to take sudden action  before you are able to stop and realize you are being scammed, said Attorney General Sunday.

The Attorney Generals Office has some tips on how to protect yourself from these scams:

Never click on links or respond directly to unexpected calls, text messages, emails, or computer pop-ups. If you think the message could be legitimate, you should contact the company or agency directly. Never call the number provided in the message: go directly to the agency or company website to find contact information.

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Slow down! Scammers want to rush you, so stop and check it out. Before you make any moves, talk with someone you trust. Real law enforcement and real bank personnel would never rush you. If a scammer insists you remain on the phone or instructs you to mislead your bank or financial institution, it is a scam.

Never withdraw cash in response to an unexpected call or message. Only scammers will request that you pay vast amounts of money in cash. Never send money through a Bitcoin ATM.

Real businesses and government agencies would never ask for payment in Bitcoin, gift cards, or through wiring money  anyone who asks for funds this way is likely a scammer.

Urge your bank to put more protections in place to prevent these scams. Bank employees often know how to spot a scam because people rarely withdraw large sums of cash. The bank has the right to refuse a withdrawal if they suspect you may be a victim of fraud. If your bank asks you questions about a transaction, they are trying to keep your money and information safe.

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If you believe you were a target of fraud or a scam you can contact the Office of Attorney Generals Bureau of Consumer Protection online, or by emailing scams@attorneygeneral.gov, or by calling the Office at 1-800-441-2555.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
A partial view of the roof of the Milan Cathedral in Milan Italy as seen in Ooctober 2021. The cathedral shows elements of the late Gothic style, which emphasized elaborate decorative motifs and was traditionally considered a sign that the earlier Gothic style had run out of ideas. A month into its legislative session, the Alabama Legislature also appears stuck in the past and out of ideas. (Juana Mari Moya/Getty Images)

I cant go to Goat Hill lately without feeling deja vu.

It started with Gov. Kay Iveys State of the State address on Feb. 6. There was the trite invocation of the Gulf of America. The vicious attacks on transgender Alabamians. And the constant talk about job creation and business investment that never seems to dent Alabamas high rates of poverty or low rates of workforce participation.

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Go after immigrants. Back The Blue. Make vague commitments to broaden a potentially catastrophic voucher program in the Education Trust Fund.

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Its all been done.

There were a few departures from the theme. Like parental leave; a Glock switch ban and the Second Chance Act. But those variations underlined the roteness of the performance.

Youll never lose money betting that a Republican politician will talk about crime until you think America is the latest installment of the Fallout franchise. But the time to tackle that was four years ago during the pandemic. Not when crime rates as a whole are on the way down.

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The craven attacks on immigrants, a small and vulnerable group? Theyre in line with the priorities of the GOP nationwide. But we already did this with HB 56, the 2011 state law that authorized legal harassment of the foreign-born and the people, organizations and churches that provide them aid.

HB 56 was a disaster for immigrants in the state and businesses that counted on their work. You think wed have learned not to throw Alabamas workforce into chaos in a moment of financial uncertainty, in an aging state that desperately needs young workers.

But we have not.

Nor have we made any efforts to address the states actual problems. Alabama House leadership has already ruled out Medicaid expansion this year. So our rural health care crisis will continue. And for all the stated concerns for public safety, the Legislature is rejecting modest bills to address our appalling rate of gun deaths.

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There are a few ways to look at this.

Republicans around the nation are engaged in Donald Trump cosplay, and are far more interested in his needs than the voters. Ivey and the Alabama Legislature are not alone in parroting whatever lumpy batter of nouns and superlatives come out of the presidents mouth.

The state budgets appear to be less flush than they were in the past three years, when we had COVID relief money  from the bad, bad federal government  pouring into the Treasury. Lawmakers are understandably wary about rolling out new initiatives. Playing the hits is easier.

But it also seems that our political class is out of ideas. Worse, theyre trapped in politics that lead them to reject obvious solutions.

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The governor and the Legislature tell us how important it is to improve the states workforce participation rate. You know one really effective way to do that? Encourage immigration. It creates jobs and expands the workforce.

You want to tackle crime in Alabama? Make it harder to obtain a firearm. A Glock switch ban would be a good start; requiring gun owners to lock up their weapons would be better; restoring the concealed carry permit requirement would be better still.

But our legislators are stumbling through an ideological rut, where new ideas are absent and old ones just trap us deeper in the mire.

If you ever took an art class, you might have learned that in the Middle Ages, there was a Romanesque style of cathedral construction that emphasized heavy, solid forms. Then came the Gothic style, which brought light and height into the sanctuaries.

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And what came after that? Late Gothic. Which, in the traditional telling, made the old form more elaborate. Artists didnt look for innovative ways to raise walls or ceilings or inspire the faithful. They just caked the standard forms with saints and monsters and gaudy sculptures.

It was an endpoint. Artists couldnt do anything more with the old style but couldnt think of anything new.

It was, of course, more complicated than that. But that traditional picture seems to reflect where our not divinely-inspired state government is.

A month into the 2025 legislative session, we have no focus; no overarching theme; nothing new worth exploring. We have a political class enthralled to a distant figure who wants to act like a king. And a government that seems more interested in catching his attention than serving the people who live in Alabama.

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We are stuck in the past. And putting a misguided faith in forms, ideas and structures that no longer have the ability to inspire. If they ever did.

Maybe some issue will break through in the next few weeks that shakes off the exhaustion and brings innovation and new approaches forward.

But for now, legislators dont seem interested in building something inspirational. They want to use the arches straining to support the state as canvases for the monsters inside their heads.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo.  A suspected car thief remains hospitalized after being shot over the weekend during the crime.

According to the Maryland Heights Police Departments probable cause statement, the theft and shooting happened on Saturday, March 1. Police did not provide a more specific time and location.

Officers responded to a shooting call and met with the victim, who told them Jalal N. Shahid (age not provided) was at his home when Shahid took out a gun, pointed it at the victim, and demanded the mans credit cards and car keys. The victim complied at Shahid left the residence.

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However, police said the victim retrieved his own firearm and confronted Shahid outside.

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Shahid, who police said was in the process of the taking the victims car, raised his firearm toward the victim.

The victim opened fire and struck Shahid in the arm and leg, police said. Shahid managed to get in the victims car and drove off.

Shahid later called an ambulance for himself and was taken to a hospital, police said.

The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorneys Office charged Shahid with first-degree robbery, armed criminal action, unlawful possession of a firearm, stealing a motor vehicle, stealing  all other property, and unlawful use of a weapon. Once Shahid is discharged from the hospital, hell be held without bond until a court appearance.

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Shahid had been out on bond for methamphetamine possession. He also has a prior felony conviction from 2014.

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Ukrainian President Zelenskyy says he believes the relationship between the U.S. and Ukraine can be salvaged after his heated meeting with President Trump and Vice President Vance. New York Times chief White House correspondent Peter Baker and former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Evelyn Farkas join Jose Diaz-Balart to weigh in on what comes next.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation activated an AMBER Alert Sunday afternoon after police say a 5-week-old baby was abducted.

An AMBER alert in Georgia is called Levis Call.

Officials believed Milan Simpson to be in extreme danger after being taken by 29-year-old Jamale Darcel Simpson.

This happened Sunday in Johns Creek in Fulton County.

Johns Creek police tell our Atlanta station, WSB-TV, that Milan Simpson was found safe late Sunday evening and is home with her mother.

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According to police, Jamale Simpson, identified as Milans father, gave her to a family member who brought her home safely.

Police are still searching for the 29-year-old.

The two were last seen at Feather Sound Court at Old Alabama Sydney Marcus Blvd. at Ga-400 in a 2013 dark blue Jeep Grand Cherokee with a temporary Georgia tag of S2181232.

Read: Amber Alert vs. Missing Child Alert: Whats the difference?

Anyone with information on where Simpson is should call the Johns Creek Police Department at 470-456-0271.

Read: Missing and unidentified from the Jacksonville area in 2025: Have you seen them?

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ST. CLAIR COUNTY, Ill.  Ameren Illinois is set to replace a decades-old pipeline along a 2.9-mile stretch of Illinois Route 157 in Collinsville as part of efforts to meet federal safety standards.

The project, which extends from Horseshoe Lake Road to Stonebridge Bluff Drive, is expected to impact traffic in the area. It is part of a multi-year plan by Ameren Illinois to bring all natural gas transmission pipelines into compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines.

According to the Director of West Region Natural Gas Operations, the project will help ensure the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to homes and businesses, especially during extreme cold weather.

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Thunderstorms with gusty winds expected Tuesday

Ameren Illinois has full-time crews in Collinsville who respond to gas leaks 24/7 and handle other safety measures. The company has coordinated with the Illinois Department of Transportation and city officials to minimize traffic impacts.

Safety officials are urging drivers to slow down and stay alert when passing through work zones. Workers will be out soon, and travelers should expect lane shifts and possible delays.

The project is expected to be completed by early September, weather permitting.

All facts from this article were gathered by KTVI journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by KTVI staff.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
Days after their Oval Office clash, President Trump posted on social media criticizing Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's comments about the end of the war with Russia being "very far away." Trump derided it as the "worst statement that could have been made" and that "America will not put up with it for much longer."
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  The American Muscle Car Club revved their engines on Sunday to honor the American Muscle Car Clubs late secretary, Marsha Allen.

The event, held at AutoNation Ford off 15th Street, saw over 50 classic and muscle cars roaring in tribute to Allen.

Allen was known for her passion for cars and her dedication to the community.

Emerald Coast Boat Show highlights luxury boats and coastal living

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So in 2015, when I joined the club, the first thing that Marsha told me was, dont join the club just for cars, just to come to all the car shows. We are a community-based car club. We love giving back to the community. So I said, thats something I like doing. And from day one, its just it just been an inspiration, American Muscle Car Club President Troy Brown said.

The club used the Martha Allen Car Show to raise funds for a cause close to her heart.

Muscle members will grant three $1,000 scholarships for students at Haney Technical College who are perusing automotive repair and maintenance studies.

For every car that entered the show, the club was able to increase the total donation funds. Before opening the show, members raised enough money for one scholarship.

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So, it helps multiple students in the car community. Before the show even started, we had collected about $1400. So were going on to, you know, our goal was $3,000, Brown said.

The event and its eight sponsors had a silent auction, trophies, prizes, and raffles, with all proceeds being donated to Haney in Marshas honor.

We found out when we met with Haney a few months ago that they currently didnt have any scholarships benefiting their auto mechanic students. And so we saw that as an opportunity, along with our sponsors who are in the automotive industry, to kind of build that foundation to continue having automotive mechanics, American Muscle Car Club Sergeant of Arms Brent Salvadori said.

Club members will continue to host this event annually to remember Allen while assisting students with their automotive career dreams.

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Panama City first ever Water Park Splash Fest open to the public

Club members motto is Everything we do is driven by you.

Their goal is to continue helping the community while showcasing and enjoying all things cars.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to mypanhandle.com.
U.S. respondents are split between supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, an opinion poll published by CBS News on March 2 found.

The White House has dramatically changed its approach to foreign policy following the inauguration of U.S. President Donald Trump on Jan. 20. The U.S. leader and President Volodymyr Zelensky got into a heated argument in the Oval Office at a meeting on Feb. 28.

Most interviews were held prior to Zelensky's meeting with Trump on Feb. 28.

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52% of respondents said they backed Ukraine in its fight against Russia. 44% of respondents said they were neutral, and 4% of respondents outwardly backed Russia, according to a poll by CBS News.

46% of respondents thought that Trump favors Russia. Most of these respondents support Ukraine.

43% of respondents believe Trump has treated Ukraine and Russia equally. These respondents overwhelmingly hold a neutral stance toward Russia's war against Ukraine.

Only 11% of respondents thought that Trump favors Ukraine.

Some 51% of respondents approve of how Trump has handled Russia's war against Ukraine, while 49% disapprove.

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34% of respondents consider Russia an enemy and 32% see Russia as unfriendly, but 34% of respondents consider Russia an ally, or at least friendly.

Among those who identified as Republican, opinions towards Russia were slightly more favorable. 27% saw Russia as an enemy and an unchanged 32% saw Russia as unfriendly. 41% of respondents saw Russia as friendly or an ally among Republicans.

The poll found that 51% of Americans support military aid to Ukraine, and 49% oppose it. Among those who identify as Democrats, 72% support military aid to Ukraine and only 28% oppose it. Among Republicans, 32% support military aid to Ukraine, and 68% oppose it.

U.S. President Donald Trump said he is "for both Ukraine and Russia" during a press conference with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Feb. 28.

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Talking about his role in negotiations to end Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Trump said he was "in the middle."

"I'm for both Ukraine and Russia... I want to get it solved," he added.

Read also: We need to get the U.S. back on track: Ukrainian businesses, economists react to mineral deal failure

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- China has seen a significant increase in the populations of its flagship species over the past few decades, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration said Monday.

The number of wild giant pandas has risen from around 1,100 in the 1980s to nearly 1,900 today, while the snow leopard population has rebounded to over 1,200. The population of wild Asian elephants has grown from over 150 to more than 300.

Additionally, the number of Tibetan antelopes has increased from around 60,000-70,000 in the late 1990s to over 300,000 today.

In the realm of wild plants, more than 200 endangered species have been successfully reintroduced, and many species have experienced significant recovery and protection.

The steady increase in wild populations is mainly due to China's comprehensive conservation efforts in recent years. According to the administration, these efforts include continuously refining policies and legal frameworks and increasing financial investment.

The administration said that moving forward, China will continue to strengthen the conservation of wildlife and plants and promote modernization that ensures the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.

Monday marks the United Nations World Wildlife Day in 2025. 
A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokesperson released a statement on the detainment of the owners of a popular New Jersey restaurant amid outrage from local community leaders and residents.

Last Tuesday, ICE officers raided the Jersey Kebab restaurant in Haddon Township and arrested the owners, Emine Emanet and her husband, Celal Emanet.

Emine Emanet and her husband, Celal.

During the investigation, ICE administratively arrested two Turkish citizens, Emine and Celal Emanet, who are present in the United States illegally. ICE authority under Title 8 of the U.S. Code enables the agency to investigate and enforce immigration laws, particularly in cases where immigration violations intersect with national security, public safety and transnational crime, the ICE spokesperson wrote in a statement on Friday. The Emanets were served a notice to appear before an immigration judge and place in removal proceedings.

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Celal Emanet was released from custody with an ankle monitor and spoke with NBC10 on Tuesday.

I was shocked and my heart was getting crushed, he said. I was so much nervous. But I didnt do anything wrong. I didnt do anything wrong in my life.

His wife remains in custody at an ICE detention center in North Jersey.

Jersey Kebab Mediterranean Grill restaurant in Haddon Township, N.J.

Emine Emanet remains in ICE custody and Celal Emanet is on an Alternative to Detention (ATD), each pending removal proceedings. ICEs ATD program, which began in 2004, uses technology and case management to ensure alien compliance with release conditions, court hearings and final orders of removal, the ICE spokesperson wrote in part.

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Immigration attorney Joseph Best told NBC10 the couple moved to the United States from Turkey in 2008 on an R1 visa. According to Camden County officials, Celal Emanet applied for a green card before the visa expired. Emanet said his application was denied three times and the couple has been in limbo since 2016.

This incident is appalling and an unfortunate example of just how broken the immigration system is here in our country, Camden County commissioner director Louis Cappelli Jr. said in a statement on Feb. 27. This couple works hard every single day to provide for their four children, grandchildren and to feed the community. They have been left without any options when it comes to their immigration status and to be arrested for something they have no control over, is unacceptable.

Cappelli, Haddon Township Mayor Randall Teague and other community leaders held a press conference in support of the Emanet family outside Jersey Kebab on Thursday.

Teague described the couples restaurant as a pillar in Haddon Township. He also said the family has participated in Toys for Tots drives and organized food drives that have left a lasting impact on the community.

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We consider this situation maybe somewhat different than some of the other ones that we hear on TV where theres criminals and rapists and so forth coming into our country, Teague said. They came in here legally and theyre trying to stay here legally.

Teague said Haddon Township leaders reached out to Rep. Donald Norcross, D-N.J., for guidance on the ongoing case.

The local officials also had a broader message about the immigration system and delays within it.

This family is a family that embodies the very best of Camden County. And now theyre torn apart by this broken immigration system, Cappelli said. It is time to stand up for good people. It is time to stand up for humanity. These folks do not deserve this. These folks do not deserve this. Fix the immigration system and lets fix it now.

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Camden County Commissioner Virginia Betteridge, whose parents came to America from Cuba in the 1960s, also spoke about fixing the pathway.

There is no reason for people to be incarcerated when theyre waiting to get their documents in order and to be sure that they can become a resident and then a citizen of this country, she said.

In addition to Camden County leaders, Haddon Township residents are also showing their support for the couple. A GoFundMe for the family has raised more than $310,000 as of Sunday.

Also on Sunday, community members gathered inside Anjali Power Yoga across the street from Jersey Kebab to write letters in support of Emine Emanets release.

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The goal is for the judges, the politicians and anyone locally with influence and power to know that the community stands by this resident, Isis Williams of the Haddon Township Equity Initiative told NBC10.

The couples son, Muhammed Emanet, plans to take those letters to the immigration judge who ultimately presides over his mothers case. He said his family has been touched by the outpouring of support.

I just cannot thank the community enough for the support they have given us, he said. And I just wish that we were judged amongst our peers instead of being judged by other judges who do not personally know us at all.

While Jersey Kebab remains closed until further notice, Muhammed Emanet still cooked free food for the community over the weekend.

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They are a good family. They are not criminals. They entered the U.S. legally," Best, the immigration lawyer, wrote in a statement to NBC10 on Sunday. The Federal immigration and nationality law provides for them the legal means to rectify their situation and seek relief from removal before the immigration court.

Best told NBC10 he is waiting for the couples case to be entered into the immigration court system, which will start the removal proceedings ICE is requesting but also allow the Emanets to ask for legal status. Its unclear how long that process would take. New Jerseys immigration court currently has more than 220,000 pending cases.

The couples arrest occurred amid a nationwide push from President Donald Trumps administration to detain immigrants who entered the United States without the proper documents.

While the administration vowed to prioritize the worst first when it comes to arrests and deportations, the number of detainees in ICE custody without a criminal conviction or pending criminal charges increased by more than 1,800 in the first two weeks of February, representing 41% of the 4,422 total new detainees in that period, according to data obtained by NBC News.

This story was originally published in NBC 10 Philadelphia.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Last weeks Oval Office spat between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy raises serious concerns about the future of the U.S.-Ukraine alliance. Former California Rep. Jane Harman argues that if former President Joe Biden had sent military aid to Ukraine sooner, the war would have been over by now. Harman also warns of a Russian attack on the U.S. after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth halted offensive cyber operations and information operations against Russia.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
By Andrew Gray and Lili Bayer

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Even as they have rallied to Volodymyr Zelenskiy's side after his Oval Office clash with Donald Trump, European leaders' approach to the war in Ukraine and the continent's security remains highly dependent on the U.S. president.

For all their sympathy for Zelenskiy and European anger at his treatment by Trump, they see no way to bring peace to Ukraine or protect Europe against Russia without U.S. support.

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That view reflects a harsh reality for Europeans that U.S. hard power is vastly superior to anything they can muster, even as they scramble to ramp up defence spending and vow to take more responsibility for their own security.

Whether Europeans can still rely on that power to come to their aid, as they have done for decades, is an existential question not only for Ukraine but for the continents security and the NATO alliance.

Even after Trump's public berating of the Ukrainian president, European leaders are essentially sticking to the strategy they have pursued since the U.S. president began his second term.

It is the same for both Ukraine and broader European security: try to keep the U.S. engaged while also boosting Europes own efforts.

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"Do we consider Volodymr Zelenskiy an important resistance fighter, a hero? The answer is yes. Should we be making judgment or taking the moral high ground? Then the answer is no," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told RTL Radio on Monday.

The European strategy was on display at a leaders' meeting in London on Sunday and will likely feature again at a European Union summit on Ukraine and defence on Thursday in Brussels.

Leaders including NATO boss Mark Rutte urged Zelenskiy to find a way to rebuild ties with Trump.

And even as he declared Europe is ready to do the "heavy lifting" on security guarantees for Ukraine after a peace deal, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said they would need "strong U.S. backing" - which Trump has not promised so far.

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STRATEGY DOUBTS

Some doubt whether such a strategy has much chance of success, given Trumps treatment of Zelenskiy and his swift moves to warm up U.S. relations with Russia.

"It seems to me that many have still not fully accepted that Trump simply does not want to play the role that Europeans want him to play," said Jana Puglierin, head of the Berlin office of the European Council on Foreign Relations think tank.

"No 'strong US backing' will materialize," she posted on X in a comment on Starmer's remarks.

However, European officials feel they have no alternative but to keep trying, even though some were privately fuming over how Trump treated Zelenskiy.

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One senior official declared in the aftermath of the blow-up: "Donald Trump has to choose if he wants to call himself a leader of the free world, or leader of an extortion gang. The latter is not interesting for Europe."

Another branded the episode "disgraceful" and an official from northern Europe called it an "utter disgrace".

But Peter Mandelson, the British ambassador to the United States, said Ukrainian-U.S. relations needed to be reset as Trumps initiative to end the war was "the only show in town".

PRESSING CONCERN

For Ukraines European allies, one pressing concern is that U.S. arms deliveries approved under the Biden administration keep flowing.

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According to NATO, the U.S. provided more than 20 billion euros ($21 billion) in security assistance to Ukraine in 2024  more than 40% of the total received by Kyiv.

Americas support to Ukraine is not just about ammunition and weapons, from artillery shells to air defence systems. It also provides intelligence, training and other assistance that would be hard for Europeans to replace.

In the longer term, European leaders say any soldiers they send to Ukraine to defend a peace deal would need backup from their nuclear-armed superpower ally, even though Washington has made clear it will not deploy troops inside the country.

That would mean U.S. forces being ready to intervene to protect European troops if they came under attack from Russia.

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"The Russians need to know that they're going to answer to the United States as well as to the Europeans on the ground," Mandelson told ABC News on Sunday.

Europe's reliance on the U.S. is even greater for its own defence inside the NATO alliance.

Tens of thousands of U.S. troops are deployed in bases across the continent and the U.S. provides a range of military capabilities that Europe currently can't match - from mid-air refuelling to a giant nuclear umbrella.

For now, Europeans are taking comfort in declarations by the Trump administration that it is committed to NATO. But they say NATO will have to change substantially - with a much greater European role.

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"We know that they expect us to take greater responsibility for Europes security, and we must be ready for that," said a senior European official.

($1 = 0.9583 euros)

(Reporting by Andrew Gray and Lili Bayer; Additional reporting by John Irish; Writing by Andrew Gray; Editing by Peter Graff)
Former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo is launching a political comeback four years after a series of scandals, including serious allegations of sexual misconduct, derailed his political career.

In a more than 17-minute long video posted on Saturday to launch his New York mayoral campaign, Cuomo pitched himself as the common-sense leader needed to address crime and urban disorder.

I know government can make a positive difference, because we did. Was it easy? No. But together, we achieved historic progressive accomplishments.

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Cuomo, a onetime Democratic power player, resigned as governor of New York in 2021 after a five-month investigation commissioned by the New York attorney generals office produced a damning 165-page report outlining evidence he had sexually harassed 11 women while in office. A separate investigation from the Department of Justice found Cuomo harassed 13 women who worked for the state over the course of eight years. Cuomo has denied the allegations of sexual harassment, but he has publicly apologized for overfamiliar contact and off-color jokes that made women uncomfortable.

In his mayoral campaign launch video, Cuomo touted his experience over many different positions and obliquely addressed the scandals of his tenure as governor.

Experience matters. Leading New York City in the midst of a crisis is not the time or the place for on-the-job training, Cuomo said. Did I always do everything right in my years of government service? Of course not. Would I do some things differently knowing what I know now? Certainly. Did I make mistakes, some painfully? Definitely. And I believe I learned from them and that I am a better person for it. And I hope to show you that every day. But I promise you this: I know what needs to be done and I know how to do it.

Cuomo is now among the half-dozen Democrats in the race to challenge embattled incumbent Mayor Eric Adams, who has faced a series of his own scandals and was indicted last year on federal charges of bribery, campaign finance violations and conspiracy. After President Donald Trump took office, top officials at the Department of Justice have moved to dismiss the charges against Adams.

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Some recent polling has shown Cuomo, who enjoys high name recognition from his time as governor, in the lead of the prospective Democratic primary, which will be held June 24 using ranked-choice voting.

Cuomos career in New York politics was marked by a hard-charging, confrontational and often combative approach. But at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, which hit New York particularly hard, many Americans looked to Cuomo and his PowerPoint-based news conferences for leadership and comfort. Cuomo positioned himself as a foil to Trump and garnered praise, including winning an international Emmy and securing a more than $5 million book deal.

But later, Cuomos administration would be accused of deliberately underreporting and undercounting COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes. He would also come under scrutiny for using taxpayer-funded staff and resources to write the book, American Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic.

And starting in early 2021, women who had worked for Cuomo started coming forward with allegations that he had sexually harassed them. The first two to come forward were Lindsey Boylan, a former top economic development official in Cuomos administration, and Charlotte Bennett, who worked as an executive assistant and health policy adviser in the governors office.

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The report from the attorney generals office, released in August 2021, found that Cuomo harassed 11 women by among other things, engaging in unwelcome and nonconsensual touching, as well as making numerous offensive comments of a suggestive and sexual nature that created a hostile work environment for women. The culture of the office, the report said, was one filled with fear and intimidation.

Cuomo resigned from the governors office a week after the reports release. He said that the most serious allegations made against me had no credible factual basis in the report but apologized for having truly offended the women who came forward.

I have been too familiar with people. My sense of humor can be insensitive and off-putting. I do hug and kiss people casually, women and men. I have done it all my life. Its who Ive been since I can remember, Cuomo said. In my mind, Ive never crossed the line with anyone, but I didnt realize the extent to which the line has been redrawn.

Progressive groups were quick to throw cold water on Cuomos campaign.

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New Yorkers dont need one disgraced elected official vying to replace another, Jasmine Gripper and Ana Maria Archila, co-chairs of the New York Working Families Party, said in a statement. Andrew Cuomo could fill a book with all of his scandals. Then again, hed probably need one of his staffers to write it for him.

The fallout from Cuomos precipitous downfall extended to his brother Chris Cuomo, then a primetime anchor at CNN who subsequently left the network after he was found to have been advising his brother on the scandal. It also ensnared Times Up, the now-shuttered organization founded to combat sexual harassment and assault in Hollywood.

The allegations against Cuomo didnt lead to criminal charges, but civil lawsuits have continued for years following his exit from office. In December, Bennett dropped a federal lawsuit against Cuomo, citing what her lawyer Debra Katz called an astonishing number of invasive discovery requests and outrageous statements that Cuomo filed to embarrass and humiliate her. A case she filed against the state of New York remains ongoing.

Throughout this extraordinarily painful two year case, Ive many times believed that Id be better off dead than endure more of his litigation abuse, which has caused extraordinary pain and expense to my family and friends, Bennett said in a December 9 statement. I desperately need to live my life. Thats the choice I am making today.

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In a statement, Cuomos attorneys called Bennetts lawsuit baseless and said her decision to drop it before she was set to be deposed should be viewed as a complete capitulation. Ten days after Bennett dropped her case, Cuomo filed a defamation claim against Bennett for saying in her statement that Cuomo sexually harassed her. Katz, in a statement to multiple news outlets, said the defamation case had no merit.

There is a long history of using defamation lawsuits to silence and punish accusers of sexual harassment, Katz said. It is shameful that Mr. Cuomo has apparently now chosen to go down that path.

A spokesperson for Katzs law firm, Katz Banks, declined to comment on Cuomos entry into the mayors race.

Cuomos return to the political arena comes amid a cultural and political backlash to the #MeToo movement that spurred reckonings for men in positions of power. Trump, a fellow New Yorker, was elected to the presidency in November after a jury found him liable for sexually abusing and defaming the advice columnist E. Jean Carroll.

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Some of the elected officials who previously denounced Cuomo are now getting behind or expressing openness to his mayoral bid.

When it comes to confronting political extremism in New York, when it comes to confronting the crisis of crime, we need not a nice guy, but a tough guy like Andrew Cuomo, Rep. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat who represents the Bronx, said in a statement endorsing Cuomo.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who represents Brooklyn, told NY1 on Wednesday that he looked forward to speaking with Cuomo if he got into the race.

I think hed be a candidate that a lot of people, as Ive heard from the district that I represent, would be very interested in checking out, he said.

The post Andrew Cuomo wants to make his political comeback appeared first on The 19th.

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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP)  Andrew Tate said he was disappointed in Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday while speaking on a podcast several days after he and his brother, Tristan, who are charged with human trafficking in Romania, returned to the U.S.

Andrew Tate appeared on the PBD Podcast, hosted by Patrick Bet-David, and said DeSantis likely caved to media pressure last week when he told reporters that the Tates weren't welcome in Florida, after they landed in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday. DeSantis said Floridas attorney general was examining whether the state may have any jurisdiction over the brothers alleged crimes, and if so, how to hold them accountable. In court documents, the Tates have said they are not and have never been Florida residents.

I dont know why Rons answer wasnt, He has an American passport. The judicial system in Romania, which I know absolutely nothing about, decided to let him fly, and hes flown to his home country. As far as were concerned, hes broken no laws," Tate said. Instead, what he did was say: 'Were going to get our attorney general to try and find some laws hes broken and wreck this man whos done nothing inside of the United States ever.'"

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In contrast, Tate described U.S. President Donald Trump as such a boss in his response to reporters about the Tate brothers. A reporter asked Trump if his administration had pressured the Romanian government to release the brothers, and Trump said, I know nothing about that.

Andrew Tate, 38, is a former professional kickboxer and self-described misogynist who has amassed more than 10 million followers on the social platform X. He and his brother Tristan Tate, 36, are vocal supporters of Trump.

Andrew reiterated on Monday that he has not been convicted of any crimes.

Isnt the whole point of democracy, innocent until proven guilty? Tate said. Ive yet to even have a trial, let alone a conviction. Ive never even been tried after three years. Ive never been to trial.

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Andrew Tate is a hugely successful social media figure, attracting millions of followers, many of them young men and schoolchildren drawn in by the luxurious lifestyle the influencer projects online.

He previously was banned from TikTok, YouTube and Facebook for hate speech and his misogynistic comments, including that women should bear responsibility for getting sexually assaulted.

The Tates, who are dual U.S.-British citizens, were arrested in late 2022 and formally indicted last year on charges they participated in a criminal ring that lured women to Romania, where they were sexually exploited. Andrew Tate was also charged with rape. They deny the allegations.

The Tates departure came after Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu said this month that a Trump administration official expressed interest in the brothers case at the recent Munich Security Conference.

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Just weeks ago, Andrew Tate posted on X: The Tates will be free, Trump is the president. The good old days are back. And they will be better than ever. Hold on.

The DeSantis' office didn't immediately reply to an email seeking comment about Monday's podcast with Tate.
Harry Enfields grumpy character Kevin, a floppy haired parody of youth who graced our TV screens in the 1990s, depicted a rebellious teenager who was stepping into adulthood with great suspicion and even greater lethargy.

The stereotype of a moody teen wanting to spend all day in bed might be so unfair, as Kevin would say, but there is something in this tongue-in-cheek portrayal which endures to this day.

Gags aside, official figures suggest that even part-time Saturday jobs are on the out. Behind the cliches about workshy teens, a worrying trend has bedded in that we all need to pay attention to.

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Britain now has almost a million 16 to 24-year-olds who are not in education, employment or training (known as Neet), according to the latest Office for National Statistics numbers. Thats the highest level since 2013, when the economy was still reeling from the financial crisis. A big difference is that in 2013, most people in that group were looking for a job but struggling to find one.

Today, that has flipped and the majority  some 595,000 of the 987,000 Neets  are classed as economically inactive, meaning they are not hunting for a job nor hoping to apply for an educational course.

Young men are more likely than women to be a Neet (14.4pc compared with 12.3pc), a phenomenon that headteacher Caroline Barlow last year said was partly down to a culture of low expectations for male students.

This is not a footloose and fancy-free cohort living for the next party or beach holiday. Nor are they simply lazy. The rise in inactivity is linked to a post-pandemic mental health crisis. A survey of 500 Neets by the Kings Trust charity last week found that almost one in three would like to work but said their poor mental health prevented it.

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Half of respondents said they felt hopeless about their future because they were unemployed. The Princes Trust has said that this group is more likely than their peers to feel as if they have failed in life.

Getting this group into work would give them a sense of purpose, life skills and confidence. Instead, Neets are stepping into adulthood feeling lost and adrift, and so a vicious cycle begins.

The Government has outlined plans for a benefits crackdown and a youth guarantee to ensure all those who are able to can access either work or training. But to be a success this plan needs bosses who are willing to hire.

Instead, the managers who have traditionally given these school leavers their first jobs are now reluctant.

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They blame the 25bn increase in employers National Insurance contributions (NIC) coming into force in April, which disproportionately affects people on low wages and in part-time work.

They also point to Angela Rayners looming Employment Rights Bill, which they fear could make hiring someone who is inexperienced more trouble than it is worth.

Under the reforms, employees will be able to claim full sick pay and take employers to tribunal from day one on a job. The Treasury is already said to be concerned that the employment tribunal system could become clogged with claims.

If the final package is considered too inflexible or too employee-centric, why take a chance on a risky hire?

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Ive not been in a meeting [with ministers] where this point hasnt been made, one senior executive tells me.

The NIC raid already means that the cost of employing a worker on 15 hours a week will rise by 73pc, according to UKHospitality. As employing staff gets more costly, it is completely understandable that companies will start turning away less experienced candidates, particularly if Labours workers rights overhaul means they cannot easily get rid of someone if they hire a dud candidate. Rayners workers rights revolution risks becoming a charter for youth unemployment.

Warnings about this have been reverberating for months  and not just the tribunal aspect. Lord Woolfson, the chief executive of FTSE 100 retail giant Next, has expressed concerns about plan to ban exploitative zero hour contracts as part of the overhaul.

We offer staff extra hours in the run-up to Christmas. If the legislation is going to mean that those hours have to be contractually binding forever then we just wont be able to do it at all, it would be impossible, he told the BBC this year.

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Nobody is saying that Rayners workers rights overhaul isnt needed. There is a general consensus that workplace rules need to be modernised  the business and trade committee argues in a report today that there is clear evidence of worker exploitation across different sectors.

Official checks on areas such as forced labour in a companys supply chain are so weak that the UK is at serious risk of becoming a dumping ground if it does not align with tougher laws amongst allies, MPs warn.

Liam Byrne said the committee heard evidence about the abuse of workers in this country which frankly horrified us. It is clear that there is a serious problem that needs addressing.

Yet as the number of Neets rises, bosses warnings about unintended side effects need to be heard. The point of this package of reforms is to fight nasty bosses who are exploiting staff  it would be a disaster if it accidentally ended up stopping the lost and lonely from getting their first job.

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  Sioux Falls Animal Control is looking for help identifying a stray dog that bit a child on Saturday.

One dead after ice fall through at Big Stone Lake

Near E Brennan Drive and E 3rd Street around 3 p.m. on Saturday, an 8-year-old boy was bit on the nose by a dog after approaching it.

The animal is described as a stray, medium sized black dog with short hair and floppy ears.

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Animal Control needs to identify the dog to verify its vaccinations. If anyone has information, they are asked to call 605-367-7000.

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A quick-hitting storm brought rain to Southern California on Sunday and dumped several inches of snow on the San Bernardino Mountains. Now, forecasters are monitoring another storm system slated to arrive midweek.

Snowplows were seen clearing the roads in the Running Springs area early Monday morning after the overnight snowfall. A winter weather advisory remains in effect for areas of the San Bernardino and Riverside county mountains until 4 p.m.

A snow plow clears the road in the San Bernardino Mountains on March 3, 2025. (OnScene.TV)

The system is moving out of the area Monday morning, but below-average temperatures are expected to linger.

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Gusty afternoon winds may also continue throughout the day, as a wind advisory is in place through 3 a.m. Tuesday and a high wind warning is in place through 4 a.m.

Thats ahead of our next major storm system that arrives between Tuesday night and Thursday, KTLAs Kirk Hawkins said.

The midweek storm system is expected to be more powerful than Sundays and bring periods of moderate rain, mountain snow, and gusty winds, according to the National Weather Service.

Satellite-radar composite of a storm system in the Pacific Ocean on March. 3, 2025. (KTLA)

Rainfall amounts with the storm look to range between 0.50 to 1.00 inch across the coast and valleys with up to 1.00 to 3.00 inches in the mountains, the Weather Service stated.

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A storm is also predicted to move over the region early next week.

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Some of the anti-abortion activists pardoned by President Donald Trump are already planning a new wave of civil disobedience, according to a report.

The president issued pardons in January to activists who had broken into and blocked access to abortion clinics.

The anti-abortion group LiveAction recently held an online event, where a number of the activists released from federal prison said they would take up their efforts to close the remaining clinics available in the U.S., according to Politico.

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Herb Geraghty, from Pittsburgh, entered a Washington abortion clinic in 2020 to stop its operations and urge patients not to end their pregnancies. He served 17 months of a 27-month sentence before getting a pardon that he tried to reject.

Get out there, whether its outside the clinic or inside, or wherever you need to be to actually prevent unborn childrens lives from being taken, Geraghty said during the event, Politico reported.

He told the outlet that he was traumatized by his time in prison but that it had been worth it and that hes still committed to nonviolent direct action in service of the pro-life cause.

Supporters of the religious right march through Washington, D.C., to protest abortion during the 2025 March for Life. A group of anti-abortion activists pardoned by Donald Trump are planning a new wave of events, according to a report (Middle East Images/AFP via Getty)

Following the pardons, the FBI and Department of Justice dropped a number of investigations into threats against abortion clinics. A new memo was also issued outlining how enforcement against such threats would decrease. Congress is also moving to repeal the legislation that got Geraghty and others in legal jeopardy. Trump had branded himself as the most pro-life president in history.

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Theres actual lives being saved every minute you are committing the crime, Geraghty told Politico regarding the activists unlawfully entering abortion clinics. Every minute that a rescuer is inside the building, they are not killing babies.

Others who received pardons said they are planning on entering clinics stealthily or by force to rescue fetuses. New guidance from the Department of Justice states that officials shouldnt discipline such actions apart from under extraordinary circumstances. Those include significant aggravating factors, such as death, serious bodily harm, or serious property damage.

Activists are now pushing for state laws to give them similar rights.

Get out of our way and let citizens defend children in a way that maybe you arent willing to do, Jonathan Darnel said during the event. He was sentenced to 34 months in prison for use of force and physical obstruction at a Washington abortion clinic in 2020.

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If youre a Christian police officer, a pro-life police officer, you need to commit in your heart not to arrest rescuers that are defending children, leave them be, even if it costs you your job, he added. If youre not willing to protect the children yourself, let us do it.

The president issued pardons in January to activists who had broken into and blocked access to abortion clinics (PA Wire)

Geraghty, Darnel and others received time behind bars for violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act. The Trump administration has also taken action to dismiss with prejudice charges against activists blocking clinics in Ohio, Tennessee and Pennsylvania, according to Politico. Dismissing with prejudice means that another administration cant bring the charges back up.

One individual shut himself in the bathroom at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Philadelphia for more than three hours, forcing the rescheduling of almost 50 appointments, many of which were not for abortion services. Another group had their charges dropped after pretending to be patients to get into a clinic in northeast Ohio where they disrupted more than two dozen appointments.

Federal court records state they forcefully grabbed a patients body and told her not to go through with the abortion.

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The FBI has told some clinics that theyre dropping investigations into threats against them.

A Preferred Womens Health Center operates several clinics in North Carolina and Georgia. Its executive director, Calla Halle, told Politico that the new policy from the Department of Justice will be a catalyst for more protesting and more aggressive actions.

Protesters seem to know that theyre not going to be held accountable, she added.

The lying, the harassment, the intimidation, its definitely amping up, said Halle.
BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- China aims to land its astronauts on the moon before 2030 for scientific exploration. The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced on Monday that the country has been steadily advancing the lunar landing phase of its manned lunar exploration program.

By 2025, China's manned space program will focus on two major tasks: the application and development of the space station and the manned lunar exploration, said the CMSA.

The CMSA disclosed that, by now, major space flight-related products, such as the Long March-10 carrier rocket, the Mengzhou manned spacecraft, the Lanyue lunar lander, the Wangyu moon-landing spacesuit, and the Tansuo manned lunar rover, are in preliminary development stages with phased progress.

Meanwhile, the test and launch facilities related to the lunar landing mission at the Wenchang Space Launch Site in southern China's Hainan Province are being developed and constructed in an orderly manner.

The overall plan for the lunar exploration mission's ground systems, such as the landing site, has been completed, and the construction works will be carried out as planned.

Various large-scale tests will be conducted on initial samples of the above-mentioned major space flight-related products, according to the CMSA.

China's manned lunar exploration program will continue to promote the digital transformation of research and development, targeting the effective improvement of quality and efficiency, the CMSA added.

The country plans to carry out a manned lunar landing before 2030. Two carrier rockets will be launched to send a manned spacecraft and a lunar lander into lunar orbit. The spacecraft and lunar lander will rendezvous and dock, and then astronauts will enter the lander.

Upon the lander's arrival on the moon's surface, astronauts will drive the lunar rover for scientific exploration.

In February, the CMSA unveiled that the moon-landing spacesuit is named Wangyu, meaning gazing into the cosmos, and the manned lunar rover is named Tansuo, meaning to explore the unknown. 
Anti-Israel protesters who display the flag of terror groups such as Hamas or Hezbollah could face up to four years behind bars under a new state bill.

The proposed Stand Against Flags of Enemy Terrorists Act would expand the definition of aggravated harassment in the first degree  a class E felony  to include instances when a person displays a symbol of a foreign terrorist organization with the intent to harass, annoy, threaten or another person, according to state Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblyman Micah Lasher, Manhattan Democrats who are set to introduce the bill this week.

New York has long recognized there are some symbols that cross the line from free speech to fomenting hate and harassment  and the emblems of mass-murdering terrorist organizations certainly belong in that category, Lasher told The Post.

Anti-Israel protesters waving a Hamas flag at a demonstration in Times Square on July 31, 2024. William C Lopez/New York Post

State law already criminalizes the display of hate symbols such as swastikas, flaming crosses and nooses.

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Jewish New Yorkers have been harassed or threatened because of their religion and ethnicity particularly after Oct. 7, 2023, when the Palestinian terror group Hamas launched its horrific massacre on Israel, sparking a war and violent renewed conflicts with other terrorists such as Lebanons Hezbollah.

Anti-Israel protesters in the city have since become infamous for waving, drawing and displaying flags, emblems, logos and other symbols of recognized foreign terrorist organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah.

For example, more than 150 anti-Israel protesters gathered in Washington Square Park in Manhattan on Feb. 23  and a Hezbollah flag was prominently displayed as the crowd chanted anti-Israel and

antisemitic slogans to honor fallen Hamas leaders instrumental in planning Oct. 7.

A Hezbollah flag being displayed above a picture of Hezbollah terror leader Hassan Nasrallah at a Washington Square Park protest on Feb. 23, 2025. Emily Goldberg/JNS

Since the October 7th terror attack in Israel, weve witnessed a disturbing rise in antisemitic instances here at home, including using symbols and flags of terrorist organizations to harass and intimidate Jewish New Yorkers at their synagogues, businesses and homes, simply because theyre Jewish, Hoylman-Sigal said in a statement.

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No one should be allowed to threaten or harass a New Yorker because theyre Jewish, or any other aspect of their identity protected under state law, he said.

Weve long prohibited using symbols of Neo-Nazis and the KKK to intimidate New Yorkers, and now its time to expand that policy under the S.A.F.E.T.Y. Act to add the symbols of foreign terrorist organizations.

Lasher added, The SAFETY Act will establish an important new tool in the fight against dangerous antisemitism that has sickeningly flourished since the horrific terrorist attack against Israel on October 7th.

A person carrying a Hamas flag in Manhattan during a protest of the United Nations General Assembly on Sept. 26, 2024. Michael Nagle

Anti-Israel protesters waving a Hezbollah flag at Madison Square Park on Sept. 24, 2024. James Keivom

Eric Goldstein, CEO of the UJA-Federation of New York, called the rise in antisemitic harassment in New York alarming.

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No one should have to face intimidation or the feeling that they are unsafe because of their Jewish identity, he said. The S.A.F.E.T.Y. Act is a necessary and sensible measure to prevent the use of terrorist symbols as a tool of hate and intimidation.

The introduction of the bill comes amid continuing turmoil on New Yorks college campuses.

Last week, an unruly mob of keffiyeh-wearing anti-Israel protesters took over the college administration building at Barnard College in Manhattan and assaulted a security guard.

Gov. Kathy Hochul and CUNY also cancelled an event last week at the City College campus in Harlem because of security concerns involving anti-Israel protesters.
Missouri American Water has announced the launch of the American Water Charitable Foundation 2025 Water and Environment Grant Program.

Non-profit organizations that promote clean water, conservation and environmental education are invited to apply by March 7.

Among the five recipients of these grants in Missouri last year, two were from Joplin.

 Joplin High School received $5,000 to purchase equipment for student-led research projects focusing on water quality.

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 The Wildcat Glades Nature Group received $9,500 to restore native landscape to improve water quality and promote immersion in nature.

Christie Barnhart, senior manager of communications for Missouri American Water, said these grants are through the American Water Charitable Foundation, which was started by American Water and has been giving back to communities since 2012.

These grants are really focused on anything that is environmental in nature, Barnhart said. That could be education, or it could be a project. Some of the past grant recipients for this have been organizations that did projects that were focused on things like watershed protection. It could also be an activity geared toward environmental education in a classroom. Its really about bringing attention and awareness to sustaining our environment.

Any nonprofit organization within any of the companys service areas in the state is eligible, she said.

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As the water provider, we want to see the environment taken care of, so its a good opportunity for us to give back to organizations that are essentially helping us continue to deliver clean, safe, reliable drinking water, Barnhart said.

Since 2012, the American Water Charitable Foundation has invested over $20 million in funding through grants and matching gifts that benefit communities where American Water and its employees live and work.

Barnhart said the grant process isnt cumbersome and interested organizations can visit the application portal at https://www.amwater.com/corp/Customers-and-Communities/American-Water-Charitable-Foundation/apply-for-a-grant.
Haifa, Israel  A stabbing in the northern Israeli city of Haifa left one person and the attacker dead, authorities said Monday, in the first such fatal incident since the Gaza ceasefire began in January. The knife attack came just one day after Israel blocked aid to the Gaza Strip amid an impasse with Hamas over how to extend the ceasefire in the decimated Palestinian territory.

The six-week first phase of the truce ended on Saturday. It had enabled the entry of vital food, shelter and medical assistance for the roughly 2 million people living in Gaza and the return of 33 Israeli hostages, both dead and alive. But there was nothing immediately agreed upon to keep the relative peace.

Negotiations for a second phase of the deal have not started yet as intended, and Israel insisted over the weekend on an intermediary measure it has attributed to the Trump administration, which would significantly change the rough terms of the agreement that were initially discussed.

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The Israeli decision to halt the entry of all aid to Gaza drew a call from the United Nations and many Arab nations in the region for an immediate restoration of the truck convoys.

A deadly attack in Haifa

Monday's attack happened at a bus and train station in Haifa, a large coastal city in northern Israel that is home to a mixed Jewish and Arab population. Israel's Magen David Adom emergency service said it had pronounced dead a man aged about 70 and treated four other wounded people.



Police called it a terrorist attack and said the perpetrator was killed, but there were unconfirmed reports suggesting the man could have been inadvertently hit by a bullet fired by Israeli security forces responding to the knife attack.

Israeli first responders work next to the body of a man killed during a suspected stabbing attack in Haifa, northern Israel, March 3, 2025. / Credit: Rami Shlush/REUTERS

After Israel launched its war in Gaza in response to Hamas' unprecedented terrorist assault, repeated attacks  often involving knives  saw people killed or wounded in Israel. Until Monday, however, the Gaza ceasefire had coincided with a halt to such attacks within Israel, as violence largely subsided in Gaza after more than 15 months of war between Israel and Hamas.

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Police identified the assailant on Monday as a member of Israel's Druze Arab minority who had recently returned from another, unspecified country.



Hamas lauded the attack in Haifa, calling it a response to purported Israeli crimes "in the West Bank, Gaza and Jerusalem, including killing, destruction and displacement in the northern West Bank, the siege on Gaza, projects to displace Palestinians from the Jordan Valley, and the desecration of Al-Aqsa Mosque."

The U.S., European Union and Israeli-designated terrorist group called on "our people in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and inside Israel to escalate the confrontation with the enemy and engage them using all available means."

Both Israel and Palestinian sources on Sunday reported fresh Israeli military strikes in Gaza, where the health ministry reported at least four people were killed.

Netanyahu pushes new terms with Hamas under apparent U.S. proposal

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Mediators Egypt and Qatar, which brokered the Gaza ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement along with the U.S., have accused Israel of blatantly violating the ceasefire deal by halting the aid convoys  a move that left trucks loaded with goods lined up on the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing with Gaza.

The first six-week phase of the truce also saw the exchange of prisoners and hostages between Israel and Hamas. Of the 251 captives taken during Hamas' attack, Israel says 59 are still being held in Gaza, of whom at least 35 are dead.

Early on Sunday Israel's government said it wanted to extend the first phase of the ceasefire until mid-April  a stopgap measure that it said President Trump's Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff had proposed. Netanyahu said Hamas must accept the new proposal and hand over half of the remaining hostages immediately, before any negotiations begin on a second phase of the ceasefire agreement.

Hamas has repeatedly rejected an extension, instead favoring a transition to the truce deal's second phase that could bring a permanent end to the war and a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, as envision in the deal negotiated by the U.S. and its regional partners.

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Hamas called Netanyahu's "decision to suspend humanitarian aid is cheap blackmail, a war crime and a blatant coup against the (ceasefire) agreement."

Egypt and Qatar, along with Saudi Arabia and Jordan, denounced Israel's aid decision.



The European Union condemned what it called Hamas' refusal to accept the extension of the first phase, and added that Israel's subsequent aid block "risked humanitarian consequences."



Brussels called for "a rapid resumption of negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire."

Hamas sparked the war in Gaza with its Oct. 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel, which saw the group kill more than 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and take 251 others hostage. Israel's retaliatory war in Gaza has killed more than 48,300 people in the Palestinian enclave, also mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run Ministry of Health.

The war has also destroyed or damaged most buildings in Gaza, displaced almost the entire population and triggered widespread hunger, according to the U.N.



Netanyahu's office said Sunday that he had "decided that, from this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be suspended," accusing the group of multiple violations of the ceasefire during phase-one, and of controlling the humanitarian aid that had entered the territory thus far and "turning it into a budget for terrorism directed against" Israel.

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"In Witkoff's plan, half of the hostages would be released right away and the remaining half would be released if we reach an agreement on a permanent ceasefire," Netanyahu said Sunday. "Israel has accepted this plan. I accepted this plan. But so far, Hamas has rejected it."

His government warned there would be "consequences" for Hamas if it did not accept the temporary truce extension.



Under the first phase of the ceasefire, Gaza militants handed over 25 living hostages and eight bodies in exchange for about 1,800 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.



In Jerusalem late Sunday, AFP images showed protesters outside Netanyahu's residence calling on their government to make a deal that would bring home the remaining Israeli hostages.



Netanyahu's critics in Israel have regularly blamed him for delays throughout the months of truce negotiations.



Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, the leader of the far-right faction in Netanyahu's governing coalition, has threatened to quit if the war is not resumed, a move that would likely precipitate national elections and force Netanyahu to seek a new mandate at a time when the Israeli electorate is deeply divided over his handling of the hostage crisis.



The prime minister is also on trial for corruption charges, which he denies, and on Monday he appeared in court to testify in the case, video images from the court showed.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Two armed juveniles were detained after fighting employees at Superlo in East Memphis Sunday afternoon, police say.

Officers say they responded to an aggravated assault call at the Superlo Foods Store on 4571 Quince Road just before 1:20 p.m. Several suspects armed with firearms were accused of causing a disturbance at the business.

The store manager told police that it all started when one of the employees escorted the suspect off the premises. She says the suspect was repeatedly told to stay out of the store due to him stealing.

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17 arrests made at Binghampton home before it was deemed a public nuisance

That is when the suspect allegedly returned to the store with his mother and began arguing with the employees about them putting their hands on her son.

During the argument, an employee says the suspect punched her on the right side of her face. The victims brother is also accused of coming into the store, arguing before hitting an employee in the head with an unknown object.

The security guard says he saw the suspects with one assault rifle and a handgun, however, they were not pointed at anyone in the store.

When officers made it to the scene, they determined that the suspects were the aggressors, and they were detained at that time. They were then released and placed on an Authorization of Agency list, meaning they are banned from the property.

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The unknown suspects were not identified. However, the Department of Childrens Services was called due to the two suspects being underage.

Just last week, suspects were caught on camera attacking two Super Lo Foods employees at the same location. Police say video footage from the store showed three men come into the business and physically assault two older male employees.

Local organizations came together Monday to spread positivity despite the series of unfortunate events.

So were actually here today giving away bread and eggs. So were down to the last few. So weve given away most of everything that we had, said Jasmine Anderson with Dedicated Senior Medical Center. Its definitely important that we are out here and shining positivity out for everybody else to see. So maybe those little bread crumbs every drop somebody else can pick it up and come behind us.

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Organizers will host another food giveaway for seniors on March 21 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

If you have any information that could help police, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

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The Army is one step closer to producing millions of rounds each year of its newest caliber for the services newest rifle and light machine gun combination  the Next Generation Squad Weapon.

The services Joint Program Executive Office for Armaments and Ammunition broke ground Feb. 5 on a 6.8 mm ammunition production facility at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri, according to an Army release.

Current plans show the facility being completed by 2026 and fully operational by 2028, officials said.

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These units are getting the Army's newest rifle and machine gun combo

The move aims to give the service its own production line for the 6.8 mm cartridge, which is the caliber the Next Generation Squad Weapon is chambered for, both in its rifle and automatic rifle configuration.

The XM5 and XM250, respectively, are replacing their counterparts, the M4 carbine and M249 Squad Automatic Weapon, among the close combat forces. Both are chambered in the legacy 5.56 mm cartridge.

The Army is leading the project, while the Marine Corps and Special Operations Command have been closely involved in the development of the weapon and round in recent years.

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Lake City has been a major source of small arms ammunition for the Army and other services for decades. Historically, the plant has produced 5.56 mm, 7.62 mm, .50 Browning Machine Gun, and 20 mm ammunition.

Manufacturing equipment produces 5.56 mm ammo at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri. (Sgt. 1st Class Abel Aungst/Army)

During the height of the post-9/11 wars, from 2007 to 2018, the plant produced nearly 1.4 billion rounds, according to Northrop Grumman.

It is not lost on me that victory on the battlefield begins in our production facilities, Maj. Gen. John T. Reim, program executive officer for armaments and ammunition, said in a statement. Lake City has been central to our nations ammunition production since 1941, and this new facility builds on that proud and historic legacy.

The 6.8 mm round delivers the distance and energy on target of the larger 7.62 mm round but at a lighter weight and with better accuracy, according to Army officials.

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Currently, rounds for the Next Generation Squad Weapon are being produced by Sig Sauer, manufacturer of both the rifle and automatic rifle variants.

Ammunition manufacturer Olin Winchester will operate the new plant. The facility will span 450,000 square feet at the Missouri site, according to the Army.

The operation will include manufacturing systems for cartridge cases and projectiles, quality controls, packaging and testing laboratories. According to the release, industries in the Kansas City, Missouri, region will support an estimated 90% of the work.

When the facility hits operational status, it is expected to produce 385 million cases, 490 million projectiles and 385 million loading and packaging operations rounds each year.

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There are about a dozen units in the fielding pipeline for the Next Generation Squad Weapon in fiscal 2025. They include:

From October to December, the Army Reserves 100th Infantry Battalion, 442nd Infantry Regiment at Fort Shafter, Hawaii; elements of the 25th Infantry Division, at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii; the Armys Ordnance School, at Fort Gregg-Adams, Virginia.

From January to March, the 3rd Brigade, 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky; 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington; 1st Brigade, 1st Armored Division, at Fort Bliss, Texas.

From April to June, the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment at Hunter Army Airfield, Savannah, Georgia.

From July to September, the 1st Brigade, 34th Infantry Division with the Minnesota Army National Guard; multiple 10th Mountain Division battalions.

7.62 Caliber Ammunition Production at Lake City Army Ammunition Plant. (Army)

Last October, the 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division was one of the units to conduct live-fire testing of the weapon. The Red Curahee soldiers ran tactical patrols after having run shooting ranges at limited visibility, according to the Army.

The squad-sized elements put the weapon through its paces on terrain at their home station of Fort Campbell, Kentucky. At the time, Maj. Craig Hymel, the battalion executive officer, explained the culminating event.

The squad live [fire] will be the last event in conjunction with the stress shoot that participants execute, Hymel said. At which point, the Operational Assessment Team is going to collect and finalize all the data.
Dutch police say they have cracked the case of the mysterious disappearance of a Brueghel painting from a Polish museum over 50 years ago. Authorities say the case was finally solved with the help of arts magazine journalists and a well-known art detective.

"Woman Carrying the Embers," also known as "Woman Moving A Bonfire" and painted by the Flemish-Dutch master Pieter Brueghel the Younger around 1626, vanished from the National Museum in Gdansk during communist times around 1974.

Its whereabouts sparked numerous rumors -- including involvement by the Polish secret service at the time -- in a story worthy of a spy novel.

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The round painting, measuring just 6.6 inches, was thought to have disappeared forever.

But the stolen painting is currently under lock and key at a museum in the Dutch province of Limburg, Richard Bronswijk of the Dutch police's arts crime unit said.

"We are 100% sure that it's the same painting that disappeared from the National Museum in Gdansk back in 1974," Bronswijk told AFP.

"Indiana Jones of the Art World"

Arthur Brand, a well-known Dutch art detective, said suspicions were first raised when journalists from the leading Dutch arts magazine "Vind" spotted the painting at a Dutch exhibition last year.

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Billed as "not being seen for the past 40 years," the painting was on loan to the Gouda Museum from a private collection.

"A magazine contributor, John Brozius, did some research and stumbled upon an article on a Polish website with an old black-and-white picture," Brand told AFP.

Dutch art detective Arthur Brand poses for a photograph during an interview with AFP in north London on January 20, 2019. / Credit: NIKLAS HALLE'N/AFP via Getty Images

"The article was about a theft that took place in Gdansk in 1974 in which two artworks were stolen: 'The Crucifixion', a sketch by Anthony van Dyck, and a Brueghel the Younger painting," he said.

"Although the people from 'Vind' were not sure, it looked pretty similar to the Brueghel on display in Gouda," Brand said.

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The painting depicts a peasant woman holding tongs with smoldering embers in one hand and a cauldron of water in the other, a reference to an old Dutch proverb: "Never believe a person who carries water in the one hand and fire in the other", or beware duplicity.

The painting's value is unknown, but Brueghel the Younger's works generally sell for millions, according to the auction house Christie's.

Brand, nicknamed the "Indiana Jones of the Art World" for his high-profile recoveries of stolen pieces, was called in for help.

"It's a match!"

Together with Dutch police, Brand investigated the identity of the painting, which in the meantime had been moved to a museum in Venlo, the southern Netherlands.

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Brand also scoured Interpol's database, which had put out a "database alert" for the Brueghel painting.

"I concluded that the painting listed by Interpol and the one on display was one and the same," he told AFP.

"We have checked and re-checked, including information on the back of the painting. It's a match!" added Bronswijk.

Dutch police have informed Polish authorities, who were expected to submit a request for legal assistance, Bronswijk said.

Neither the Dutch museums nor Polish authorities were immediately available for comment.

The theft was discovered on April 24, 1974, when a museum worker accidentally knocked the Brueghel off a wall.

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"Instead of the original work by the famous Flemish painter, a reproduction cut out of a magazine fell out of the frame," stolen Polish arts expert Mariusz Pilus wrote in "Arts Sherlock" in 2019.

Days after the discovery, a Polish customs officer who had reported the illegal export of artworks through the Baltic port of Gdynia, is said to have been set alight and killed, shortly before he was to be interviewed by police.

Portrait of Pieter Bruegel the Elder (Breda, 1525-Brussels, 1569), Dutch painter, engraving. / Credit: Photo by DeAgostini/Getty Images

Investigations into the customs officer's death and the paintings' disappearance were shut down shortly afterwards, Polish reports said.

Dutch police are now investigating how the painting eventually ended up in a private Dutch collection.

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Brand said he hoped the Brueghel painting could soon be returned to Gdansk, "to be put on display, in a museum, where it belongs."

Brand's accomplishments include returning a Vincent van Gogh painting to a museum in 2023, more than three years after it was stolen.

In 2022, he returned a Roman statue that had been stolen from Musee du Pays Chatillonnais in 1973. He also recovered Salvador Dali's "Adolescence," a Picasso painting and "Hitler's Horses," sculptures that once stood outside the Nazi leader's Berlin chancellery.

The art detective in 2017 told "CBS Mornings" that he's brokered deals with terrorist groups, the mafia and a slew of shady characters in order to track down pieces on the black market.

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"On one hand you have the police, insurance companies, collectors, and on the other hand you have the criminals, the art thieves and the forgers. So there are two different kind of worlds, and they do not communicate. So I put myself in the middle," Brand said.

War in Ukraine takes perilous turn after Zelenskyy, Trump Oval Office argument

Trump approval rating at 51%, new CBS News poll shows

The hidden side of Johnny Carson
BARCELONA, Spain (AP)  The European Unions asylum agency on Monday released its annual report for the 27-nation bloc, plus Norway and Switzerland. Under international refugee law, people have the right to apply for asylum when they are fleeing conflict or persecution. Migrants who are fleeing poverty or looking for better job opportunities usually have their applications rejected.

Here's a look at the situation, by the numbers:

1,014,000

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Over 1 million asylum applications were made in the European Union, Norway and Switzerland last year. That's 11% lower than the previous year. While Germany continued to be by far the main country sought by asylum seekers, with 237,000 requests, it also saw a 29% fall in applications compared to 2023.

The issue of migration was at the forefront of the recent German elections, which saw historic gains by the far-right and protests against tougher border legislation. Spain, Italy and France followed Germany with roughly 160,000 applications each. Cyprus and Greece received the most applications per capita, with one asylum request for every 140 residents.

151,000

The number of Syrians who applied for refugee status. While they remained the top nationality of asylum seekers, accounting for 15% of total requests, the number of Syrian applications also fell. After nearly 14 years of war in Syria, former President Bashar Assad's fall in late 2024 opened the way for the return of millions of citizens who had taken refuge abroad.

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While some Syrian refugees have already made the journey back from neighboring countries and others have withdrawn their asylum applications, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees warned that unless conditions in the country improved many might not remain in Syria. Afghans and Venezuelans were the other top nationalities of asylum seekers, with around 87,000 and 74,000 applications respectively.

4.4 million

The number of Ukrainians still registered under the EU's temporary protection program at the end of 2024 but not included in asylum figures. The majority are being hosted in Germany and Poland. The temporary protection directive, an exceptional EU mechanism created for situations of mass displacement, was activated for the first time in 2022 following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine and has been extended as the war marks its third anniversary.

Ukrainians with temporary protection do not need to apply for asylum to live, work, study or receive medical care in the European Union, albeit for a limited period of time. The European Asylum office said last year some 27,000 Ukrainians applied for permanent refugee status, up 90% from 2023. Half of those asked for protection in France.

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42%

The percentage of first-time applicants who were granted refugee status or another form of protection. The recognition rate remained stable compared to 2023 but varied widely among nationalities, the agency said. For example, 90% of Syrians had their asylum requests recognized, while 96% of asylum seekers from Bangladesh were rejected. There were also a near-record 981,000 cases pending an initial response, reflecting a backlog that hasn't been seen since the peak of the refugee crisis in 2016 that overwhelmed authorities and asylum systems.

___

Follow APs global migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
This photo taken on Aug. 15, 2024 shows a Ukrainian tank destroyed during Russian attacks in Toretsk. (Photo by Peter Druk/Xinhua)

The summit took place amid diplomatic tensions, following a heated exchange earlier this week between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, which led to the cancellation of an anticipated raw materials agreement between the two countries.

LONDON, March 2 (Xinhua) -- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that Britain will allow Ukraine to use 1.6 billion pounds (2 billion U.S. dollars) of British export finance to purchase more than 5,000 air defense missiles.

"This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening Ukraine," Starmer told a press conference following a summit with Western leaders in London.

The goal is "to put Ukraine in the strongest position" so the country can negotiate from a position of strength, he added.

Western leaders, including more than a dozen European heads of state and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, gathered in London on Sunday for a defense summit aimed at advancing a peace plan for Ukraine.

Starmer said leaders at the summit had agreed on a four-step plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine: to maintain military aid to Ukraine while the conflict continues and increase economic pressure on Russia; to ensure that any lasting peace guarantees Ukraine's sovereignty and security, with Ukraine at the table for any negotiations; to deter "any future invasion by Russia" in the event of a peace deal; and to establish a "coalition of the willing" to defend Ukraine and uphold peace in the country.

Flags of European Union (EU) and Ukraine are seen at the EU headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, Feb. 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

The leaders also agreed to meet again soon to sustain the momentum behind these efforts, Starmer said.

The prime minister reaffirmed Britain's commitment to supporting the peace plan with "boots on the ground, and planes in the air."

"Europe must do the heavy lifting," he said, emphasizing that the agreement needs U.S. backing.

"Let me be clear, we agree with Trump on the urgent need for a durable peace. Now we need to deliver together," he said.

Earlier on Sunday before the summit, Starmer announced that Britain, France and Ukraine will work on a ceasefire plan to present to the United States. He named three essential points to achieve "lasting peace" -- a strong Ukraine, a European element with security guarantees, and a U.S. backstop, with the last one being the subject of "intense" discussion.

The summit took place amid diplomatic tensions, following a heated exchange earlier this week between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, which led to the cancellation of an anticipated raw materials agreement between the two countries.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer (L) shakes hands with visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in front of 10 Downing Street in London, Britain, March 1, 2025.(Xinhua/Li Ying)

On Saturday, Zelensky met with Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where the British prime minister reaffirmed the UK's "unwavering determination" to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine. Following the meeting, Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko announced that Britain and Ukraine had agreed on a loan of 2.26 billion pounds to support Ukraine's defense capabilities. (1 pound = 1.26 U.S. dollar) 
Within a single week in February, several attacks against enlistment offices and personnel in Ukraine took place, resulting in injuries among both military and civilians. The most striking was the murder of an enlistment officer at a gas station in Poltava Oblast.

A man killed the officer during an attempt to kidnap his acquaintance who had recently been mobilized into the army. The soldier died immediately from the gunshot wounds. Two accomplices were detained later the same day.

"Killing military personnel in the rear is a red line that cannot be crossed," Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces, wrote on Facebook, reacting to the recent attacks.

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"We have already seen cases of humiliation and aggression against our defenders, but I have not seen a strong public reaction. Now, we have direct armed attacks. This is how the enemy works," Drapatyi added.

As Ukraine steps up its mobilization efforts, attacks on personnel are becoming more frequent, driven by escalating social tensions as the war drags on. In search of the perpetrators, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) insists that Russian special services are behind the latest incidents.

In the meantime, criticism of the government's mobilization policy, as well as its inability to protect service members is also mounting.

Everything that was done regarding mobilization was done in the worst possible way, Andrii Osadchuk, a lawmaker of the Holos faction and deputy chairman of parliament's Law Enforcement Committee, told the Kyiv Independent.

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The consequences of poorly organized mobilization efforts have been emotional and psychological, creating a fragility of social relations in Ukraine that Russia is exploiting, Osadchuk said.

Read also: We asked young Ukrainians what would make them sign up for the armed forces

Russia attacks in rear

Throughout the full-scale invasion, Ukraine has had to confront Russian aggression not only on the battlefield. In February alone, the SBU detained dozens of individuals who it said were recruited by Russian special services and involved in sabotage activities in Ukraine.

Among the detained were both adults and underage citizens who acted on Russia's orders. They reported the coordinates of Ukraine's critical infrastructure, set fire to military vehicles, and organized disinformation campaigns. Two cases were also related to attacks against enlistment office staff.

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The SBU and Ukraine's National Police on Feb. 5 detained Russian agents who had detonated explosives near an enlistment office in Pavlohrad, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.

On the same day, the SBU determined the circumstances of the recruitment of another agent who blew himself up in an enlistment office in the western Ukrainian city of Rivne. The explosives were detonated remotely, killing the agent and injuring six other people.

According to Serhii Andrushchenko, SBU's deputy head, the remote detonation of self-made devices is a new tactic of the Russian special services, allowing them to get rid of the perpetrator of the crime and not pay them the promised money for carrying out an attack.

"Russian special services simply use these people for their purposes as expendable material. An FSB (Russia's Federal Security Service) officer does not care what happens to them after the task is completed," Andrushchenko said.

A serviceman speaks with a volunteer at a conscription point in Ukraine on March 26, 2024. (Serhii Mykhalchuk/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)

Volunteers gather at a conscription point to join the Ukrainian army in Ukraine on March 26, 2024. (Serhii Mykhalchuk/Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)

Russian special services are trying to destabilize the situation with terrorist attacks against the military to discredit enlistment offices, disrupt mobilization, and sow distrust in Ukrainian forces, Andrushchenko added.

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Osadchuk echoed Andrushchenko's stance, saying that destabilization inside Ukraine is "an absolute priority" for Russia. The expert stressed that Russian special services have been operating similarly for decades in Ukraine but have been particularly active over the past two and a half years of the full-scale invasion.

Russias efforts to destabilize the situation in Ukraine are made easier due to the fact that people are exhausted, traumatized, and tense, Osadchuk said. The societal conditions are ripe for these types of crimes, he said.

Read also: Ukraine is failing the mobilization test

Internal struggle

Ukraine is continuing efforts to boost the pace of mobilization and increase the number of its troops as Russia advances on the front line.

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The Ukrainian government adopted updated legislation on mobilization in 2024, and the Defense Ministry has opened several recruitment centers throughout the country for the Ukrainian military.

Despite attempts to make military service more attractive for volunteers, including the right to choose a post in the army and financial bonuses, enlistment offices still fulfill the main function of mobilization in Ukraine.

"It is true that there is class differentiation in mobilization. But it is also true that no state in the world has ever fought a war and won it exclusively with volunteers."

The reputation of draft offices is often overshadowed by accusations  at times justified  of forced conscription without compliance with fundamental civil rights, as well as ill-treatment of conscripts in recruitment centers. Cases of wrongdoing are exploited by Russian propaganda to fuel negative attitudes toward enlistment officers and Ukraines mobilization efforts.

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"(Russian) psychological operations do not appear out of the blue. It is true that there is class differentiation in mobilization. But it is also true that no state in the world has ever fought a war and won it exclusively with volunteers," Dmytro Kukharchuk, head of recruitment of the Third Assault Brigade, wrote on Facebook.

Young residents line up after enlisting in civil mobilization in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 28, 2022. (Laurent Van der Stockt for Le Monde/Getty Images)

"We can argue about the methods of mobilization, justice, and the human element in the enlistment offices. And there will be truth in each of these disputes. But war does not wait for us to agree," Kukharchuk added.

Although Russia officially declared mobilization only once at the beginning of the all-out war, the Russian government has made considerable efforts to replenish its troops. Russias recruitment tactics involve offering attractive financial incentives, pardoning crimes, or simply taking people off the streets.

Trying to avoid increasing tensions in society, Russia has recruited civilians from less populated regions and marginalized ethnic minority communities. It has also supplemented its troops by forcibly drafting tens of thousands of Ukrainians in occupied territories  a war crime, according to international law.

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Osadchuk insists that the way enlistment offices in Ukraine carry out their work must be reorganized completely to prevent the situation from deteriorating. According to the lawmaker, "Russia or any of its other forms of existence" will not disappear even after the hot phase of the war is over, and Ukraine "needs to learn how to deal with Russias operations.

Read also: Kyiv and Washingtons mobilization age blame game misses the point

It is also important to highlight the work of law enforcement agencies that detain those who collaborate with Russia, according to Osadchuk.

"We see that the most vulnerable group is young people aged 14 to 18 who are hired through Telegram channels," Osadchuk said.

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"They need to be taught simple things. It is a crime. If you fall for the campaign and the promised thousand dollars, you will not get it. Instead, you will get three to ten years (in prison). You will ruin your life forever," he added.

Osadchuk also emphasized the need to change the government's information policy. "It is harmful to promote narratives that encourage relaxation and apathy rather than mobilization and unity," the lawmaker said.

According to Osadchuk, President Volodymyr Zelensky made a mistake by promoting the narrative that the war could end soon, demotivating both civilians and the military.

"No real fact suggests that the hot war phase should stop somewhere. Our imagination wants it, but we are not there," Osadchuk said.

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"Everyone should realize that the war is not 'somewhere over there.' It can be lost. We could be forced to retreat from Kyiv. This is not a fantasy or intimidation at all. It can really happen," he added.

Read also: As long as Russia is advancing, the war will continue military analyst Rob Lee on what awaits Ukraine in 2025

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Francis Dearnley, one of the co-hosts of the Telegraph podcast Ukraine: The Latest, was invited to attend the private briefing before president Zelensky flew back to Ukraine.

Before the intimate hour-long briefing began at Stansted Airport, a seasoned industry veteran leaned toward me and remarked: This may be the most important conference you and I will ever attend in our careers.

This statement encapsulated the gravity of the moment as we awaited the president.

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The decisions to be made in the coming days could very well prove to be the most consequential for Europe and its security since the end of the Second World War.

The conference room was tight and bustling, the air punctuated by the roar of aeroplanes overhead, making the water in our glasses shake.

When president Zelensky entered, a collective breath, an almost imperceptible pause, then nods of acknowledgement when he arrived.

To our surprise, he appeared more relaxed than anticipated after what must have been a hellish week. Smiling and exchanging light-hearted banter, he nonetheless remained unwavering in the seriousness of his answers.

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This was not a man who was prepared to offer big concessions following his recent meeting with president Trump. The sole moment of discomfort came when he was asked if he would apologise to the American president. He deftly evaded the question.

I've just been in an intimate press conference with @ZelenskyyUa.



Defiant and humourous, he said he "hadn't the right" to be depressed after the meeting with Trump.



I asked about occupied territories and peace deal propositions. It will all be in Monday's 'Ukraine: The Latest'. pic.twitter.com/42Vr33L32U  Francis Dearnley (@FrancisDearnley) March 2, 2025

Far from displaying signs of capitulation, he exuded a steely resolve.

However, no clear path forward emerged from our discussion  there was no concrete outline of what the Europeans might offer, nor any assurance of what role they would play in shaping Ukraines future security.

The reality was clear: the United States still holds a pivotal role in the security guarantees that Ukraine would require to ensure a lasting peace.

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I posed a question about the occupied territories, asking whether any agreement could involve surrendering land to Russia, particularly in regions it claims as its own, despite the continued presence of Ukrainian troops.

Zelenskys response was unequivocal: any peace deal that involved such concessions would not be peace  it would be a forced capitulation.

This was a crucial point, for it is widely believed that president Putin will never accept a peace agreement that does not cede entire regions he has annexed, inhabited by millions of Ukrainians, to Russia.

So where does that leave us? As much as Sir Keir Starmer may want to bridge the gap between Washington and Ukraines allies, it is less a gap than a chasm. Zelensky says he cannot accept a peace deal which will see the annexed regions not under full Russian control be gifted to Moscow. But as things stand, the Kremlin will never accept a peace deal which will see those territories remain in Ukrainian hands. The Kremlin passed a law to make them - in their eyes - part of their own countrys borders.

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That is just one of dozens of stumbling blocks which make a meaningful peace deal not just a gargantuan task for diplomats, but near impossible. Certain fundamentals required for meaningful peace talks are simply not present, the distance between the parties just too wide. And who really believes Putin will stop as he watches the chaos he is sowing in the West?

Some suspect that president Trump and JD Vance know this, and just want to present a deal which will be rejected by the Ukrainians so they can blame president Zelensky and cut off all aid. Europe is desperate for that not to happen, but it may be beyond its power to change, weakened as it has been by decades of over-reliance on the US for defence, and because of Trumps core beliefs about the origins of the war, which were on full display on Friday.

I havent the right to be depressed, said Zelensky before he shook our hands and left to board his flight. Perhaps not, but many diplomats are. And it is hard to see that changing any time soon.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA)  South Carolinas price gouging law is in effect amid the ongoing state of emergency, according to Attorney General Alan Wilson. Officials said it is being implemented in response to dozens of wildfires burning across the state.

The price gouging law, listed as SB39-5-145 is a general prohibition of unconscionable prices during times of disaster. It is reported to remain in effect until the state of emergency expires or is terminated. Perpetrators could be charged for excessive pricing by a thousand dollar fine and/or 30 days in jail.

There are response operations going on for more than 175 wildfires across the state affecting thousands of acres. We may see businesses and individuals looking to unfairly take advantage of the situation through price gouging of food, gasoline, lodging, and other commodities as defined by the statute. By our law, thats a criminal violation and an unfair trade practice, Attorney General Wilson said.

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Wilson emphasizes that regular fluctuations in price are still to be expected during the state of emergency.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and the Michigan Bankers Association (MBA) are promoting #BanksNeverAskThat, a nationwide campaign to educate consumers about the threat of phishing scams.

This promotion comes during National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). NCPW, sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), looks to inform people about their consumer rights and give them the tools to avoid scams. The week runs from March 2 to March 8.

Im excited to work with the Michigan Bankers Association on the #BanksNeverAskThat campaign to help Michiganders remain vigilant against scammers looking to steal their hard-earned money, said Nessel in a news release sent to 6 News.

How to spot phishing scams:

If you receive an email, text, or phone call asking for confidential information, its a red flag. Banks will not ask for confidential information over the phone or through email. End the call or delete the message if you believe its a scam.

You may be asked to verify confidential information if you call your bank, but never if they call you. Call your banks customer service number on the back of your debit or credit card if you receive a call from someone claiming to be your bank.

If you receive a suspicious email or text:

Do not download any attachments in the message. Attachments may contain malware such as viruses, worms or spyware.

Do not click links that appear in the message. Links in phishing messages direct you to fraudulent websites.

Do not reply to the sender. Ignore any requests from the sender and do not call any phone numbers provided in the message.

You can help fight scammers by reporting them to the Anti-Phishing Working Group at reportphishing@apwg.org. If you have received a phishing text message, forward it to SPAM (7726). You can also report the phishing attack to the FTC.

If you receive a suspicious phone call:

If you receive a phone call that seems to be a phishing attempt, hang up or end the call. Scammers can change the area code of their calls. If your Caller ID displays a local area code, this does not guarantee that the caller is in your area.

Do not respond to the callers requests. Financial institutions and legitimate companies will never call you to request your personal information. Never give personal information to the incoming caller.

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With phishing scams on the rise, its more important than ever to educate and empower consumers. By working together, we can outsmart scammers, strengthen fraud prevention, and protect the financial security of our communities, said T. Rann Paynter, President and CEO of the Michigan Bankers Association in a news release sent to 6 News.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel shared her support Friday for the Wayne County Prosecutors decision to file an emergency application to reverse a recent decision that struck down the states anti-terrorism statute.

The Department of Attonery General says the 2002 law made it a crime to issue a terrorist threat or falsely report an act of terrorism. The Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that this statute was unconstitutional because it does not require proof that the defendant subjectively understood the threatening nature of the statements or acted recklessly when making them.

Nessel says that the Court of Appeals decision was made in error. She says prosecutors are already required to prove that defendants intended to intimidate or coerce the public.

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Nessel urges the Michigan Supreme Court to either grant a brief to reinstate the law immediately or follow the Wayne County Prosecutors request to grant a stay on the new rulings precedential effect.

The Department of Attorney General says they have eight cases pending under this statute, and additional cases throughout Michigan could face dismissal if action isnt taken.

There is no doubt that the anti-terrorism law has stopped threats that disrupt our state and has saved lives, said Nessel in a news release sent to 6 News. Striking down this crucial law hinders my offices ability and the ability of prosecutors in all 83 counties from doing their jobs to hold those who threaten our communities accountable, making Michigan less safe.

Lawyer for accused student of MSU shooting threat wants charges dropped

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This reversal could impact people accused of breaking the law, including Michigan State University student Hope Duncan. She was charged with making a false report of terrorism over a social media post.

Mike Nichols, Duncans attorney, says that Nessel should not refer to the Michigan Supreme Court but to the State of Michigan.

You should be talking to the state legislature to fix the statute, but either way, I dont think it affects Duncan because what Hope Duncan did was not unlawful. It was wrongheaded, and irresponsible, and immature, said Nichols.

Nichols says the recent appeals court decision in Michigan v. Michael Joseph Kvasnicka declared Duncans charges unconstitutional.

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If the law is changed or reinstated. I dont think that affects Hope, because what Hope did is simply not illegal even if you look at the statute that theyve charged her with, said Nichols.

In the social media post, Duncan allegedly wrote, There is going to be another shooting at Michigan State. Im so glad. This school definitely deserves it and everyone here should die.

Nichols says her post may have been inappropriate. However, it is still protected under free speech.

If thats what she said. I would say its irresponsible, impertinent, but not illegal. Theres a difference, said Nichols.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has again proclaimed that America will get the full Jeffrey Epstein files after the highly-anticipated first phase contained no major new allegations about the convicted sex offender nor his associates.

The nations top law enforcement officer publicly released about 200 pages of files Thursday, including a series of flight logs from Espteins private jet, a partly-redacted contacts list, and a fully blacked-out list of masseuses. Later Thursday, the U.S. Department of Justice accused the FBI of withholding thousands of pages of Epstein documents, as Bondi wrote a letter to the bureaus newly-confirmed director Kash Patel demanding that all material related to the disgraced financier be turned over to her office by Friday morning.

On Saturday, Bondi told Fox News host Mark Levin that Americans will get the full Epstein files thanks to Donald Trump being the most transparent president.

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New York City SDNY (Southern District of New York), theyre sitting on thousands of pages of documents regarding Epstein. Thousands, thousands. And of course, youve seen the very strong letter, she said.

U.S. Attorney General spoke with Fox News' Mark Levin about the Epstein files over the weekend (Fox News)

We will get everything. We will have it in our possession. We will redact it, of course, to protect grand jury information and confidential witnesses. But the American people have a right to know. And Donald Trump is the most transparent president in our nations history.

Bondi also promised that documents surrounding the assassinations of former President John F Kennedy and civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr will also be declassified.

So not only will America get the full Epstein files, they will get JFK, they will get Martin Luther King, she said.

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The hyped declassification of all of the Epstein documents was met with backlash from conservatives after Bondi teed up their release Wednesday and told Fox News that the details will make you sick.

A cohort of MAGA influencers elaborately unveiled binders containing The Epstein Files: Phase 1 at the White House Thursday before the DoJ made the documents publicly available online.

MAGA influencers paraded their Epstein files binders on Thursday outside the White House (AP)

Much of the material released was previously published material from the prosecution of Ghislaine Maxwell, Epsteins girlfriend and close confidant, two years after the disgraced financier took his own life while in a Manhattan jail cell in August 2019 while awaiting trial on new charges of trafficking teenage girls.

Over the years, thousands of pages of records have been released through lawsuits, Epsteins criminal dockets, public disclosures and Freedom of Information Act requests.

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In January 2024, a court unsealed the final batch of documents collected as evidence in a lawsuit filed by Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre.

It was released in an unprofessional manner with paid, partisan social media influencers to curate their binders for us, right-wing media pundit and conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer tweeted Thursday. I cant trust anything in the binder. Neither should you.

Florida Representative Anna Paulina Luna, head of a new congressional task force to declassify federal secrets, added: THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!

Jeffrey Epstein and his longtime confidant an girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell in an undated photograph (PA)

Later Thursday, Bondi instructed Patel to conduct an immediate investigation into the bureaus failure to deliver the full set of the Epstein files and a two-week-long investigation launched into why her orders were not followed.

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The FBI director took to X and wrote: There will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned  and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued.

If there are gaps, we will find them. If records have been hidden, we will uncover them.

The Independent has reached out to the FBI and DoJ for more information.
On Wednesday, Nichole Babbitt thought she might be coming to Toyota of Cedar Park to look at a used car. The Austin mom of four was featured in the American-Statesman's 2024 Season for Caring program after being nominated to the charity program by Foundation for the Homeless.

Instead, she walked into the dealership's delivery bay and found a new 2025 black Toyota Corolla purchased for her through a Season for Caring grant to Foundation for the Homeless. It was the top item on her wish list.

"That was a huge surprise," Babbitt said. "I don't think I've ever had a bigger surprise other than having a child. I'm definitely grateful and happy. I can't even really put it into words right now."

Nichole Babbitt smiles as she receives a 2025 Toyota Corolla from Foundation for the Homeless at Toyota of Cedar Park on Wednesday. Babbitt had been homeless, but she went into addiction recovery 15 months ago and has been clean ever since.

The Statesman's Season for Caring program started in 1999 and has raised $21.7 million for local nonprofits. Each year, Season for Caring selects 12 individuals or families who have been nominated by local nonprofits. We tell their story and ask the community to give through the Austin Community Foundation. Since Thanksgiving, the 2024 Season for Caring program has raised $1.7 million in donations, which will allow the nonprofits to complete the wish lists of their featured families and help hundreds of clients with basic needs.

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Foundation for the Homeless Executive Director Monte Osburn said that when looking at a new car or a used car for Babbitt, financially it made sense to buy the new car for $26,000 with the extended warranty so Babbitt wouldn't have to worry about the car for the next five years. The foundation also purchased car insurance for her. Toyota of Cedar Park offered to tint the car's windows for free.

Now that Babbitt's wish list is complete, Foundation for the Homeless will focus on using Season for Caring funds to pay for other clients to get career training to improve their earning potential and to prevent future homelessness.

The foundation choose Babbitt, 41, because of the way she has participated in their program. "She's always had a positive attitude and just a real go-getter," said Jehree Anderson, Babbitt's caseworker.

Babbitt became homeless after 20 years of addiction. On Nov. 10, 2023, she signed herself into a treatment center and now has 15 months of sobriety. Austin's ECHO  Ending Community Homelessness Coalition  connected her to Foundation for the Homeless, which helped her get housing. She immediately got a job as a contract worker with the state and started putting her life with her children back together. She now has custody of her youngest children and visitation with her oldest children.

Nichole Babbitt checks out her new car with sales associate Ron Pilz at Toyota of Cedar Park. She has been using ride-hailing services to get to work every day after walking her kids to day care.

"I'm so proud of her," Anderson said. "She's worked so hard."

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This is the first time Foundation for the Homeless has been able to purchase a car for a client. "This is a whole new thing that we're doing with Season for Caring, and we're very grateful to be working with them," Anderson said.

For Babbitt, the new car means she'll save more than $500 a month in ride-hailing service trips. Because of her work schedule and the day care schedule for her 3-year-old twins, Babbitt has had to use Uber to make it to work on time and to avoid fees for being late to pick up her daughters. With each Uber trip with the kids, she has had to install and uninstall car seats and carry them with her.

She is looking forward to the opportunities the new car will bring, including going to parks. "Now my kids and I will get to go do some fun stuff and get out of the house," she said.

Statesman Season for Caring logo

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Statesman's Season for Caring program gifts Austin mom new car
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP)  An Australian warship on Monday rescued a Lithuanian solo rower who had encountered a tropical cyclone while attempting to cross the Pacific Ocean from California.

Aurimas Mockus was taken aboard Royal Australian Navy landing ship HMAS Choules, where he was undergoing a medical assessment, Vice Adm. Justin Jones said in a statement.

Because of highly unfavorable sea conditions, Mr. Mockuss boat could not be recovered except for two oars and some personal items, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, which coordinated the rescue, said in a statement

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Adventurer stranded for 3 days by storm

The 44-year-old adventurer had been stranded for three days in the Coral Sea around 740 kilometers (460 miles) east of the Queensland state coastal city of Mackay. He had rowed there in an enclosed boat nonstop from San Diego headed for the Queensland capital, Brisbane.

He began the 12,000-kilometer (7,500-mile) journey in October and was days away from Brisbane when he ran into the storm, which is forecast to cross the Australian coast within days.

Brisbane is 800 kilometers (500 miles) south of Mackay by air.

Mockus activated an emergency beacon on Friday after rowing into stormy seas and 80 kph (50 mph) winds generated by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the rescue authority said.

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The authority sent a plane that made radio contact with Mockus on Saturday. Mockus reported he was fatigued, the authority said.

The warship is taking Mockus south beyond Brisbane to Sydney in New South Wales, the navy said.

The cyclone has continued to track south and on Monday was 450 kilometers (280 miles) east of Brisbane, authorities said.

The cyclone is forecast to turn west and cross the Australian coast on Thursday or Friday.

Solo rowers have crossed the Pacific Ocean nonstop in the past

Mockus was attempting to become one of the few rowers who have crossed the Pacific alone and without stopping.

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Brit Peter Bird arguably became the first in 1983. He rowed from San Francisco and was towed the final 48 kilometers (30 miles) to the Australian mainland. But he is considered to have rowed close enough to Australia to have made the crossing.

Fellow Brit John Beeden rowed from San Francisco to the Queensland city of Cairns in 2015 and is considered by some to have made the first successful crossing.

Australian Michelle Lee became the first woman to make the crossing in 2023, rowing from Ensenada in Mexico to Queensland's Port Douglas.

Another Australian, Tom Robinson, in 2022 attempted to become the youngest to across the Pacific, albeit with a break in the Cook Islands. He set out from Peru and spent 265 days at sea before he was rescued off Vanuatu in 2023.

A wave capsized the 24-year-olds boat, leaving him clinging naked to the hull for 14 hours before he was rescued by a cruise ship that made a 200-kilometer (124-mile) detour to reach him.
An Australian warship has rescued a Lithuanian rower who became stuck in a tropical cyclone while attempting to cross the Pacific Ocean from California.

Aurimas Mockus had been rowing for 136 days and was thought to be less than a week from the finish line in Brisbane when he was forced to activate his emergency beacon amid rough seas.

He was taken aboard the 16,000 tonne Australian navy landing ship HMAS Choules, where he was undergoing a medical assessment on Monday, said Vice Admiral Justin Jones.

Credit: Facebook/Australian Maritime Safety Authority - AMSA

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Because of highly unfavourable sea conditions, Mr Mockuss boat could not be recovered except for two oars and some personal items, the Australian maritime safety authority, which coordinated the rescue, said in a statement

The 44-year-old adventurer had been stranded for three days in the Coral Sea around 460 miles (740 kilometres) east of the Queensland state coastal city of Mackay. He had rowed there in an enclosed boat non-stop from San Diego headed for the Queensland capital, Brisbane.

He began the 7,500-mile (12,000-kilometre) journey in October and was days away from Brisbane when he ran into the storm, which is forecast to cross the Australian coast within days.

Brisbane is 500 miles (800 kilometres) south of Mackay by air.

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Mr Mockus activated an emergency beacon on Friday after rowing into stormy seas and 50mph (80kph) winds generated by Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

The Australian maritime safety authority sent a plane that made radio contact with Mockus on Saturday. Mockus reported he was fatigued.

The warship is taking Mockus south beyond Brisbane to Sydney in New South Wales.

Mr Mockus had been stranded for three days in the Coral Sea around 460 miles (740 kilometres) east of the Queensland state coastal city of Mackay in an enclosed boat - AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE/AFP via Getty Images)

Mr Mockus had been rowing for 136 days and was thought to be less than a week from the finish line in Brisbane when he was rescued - AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE/AFP via Getty Images

The cyclone has continued to track south and on Monday was 280 miles (450 kilometres) east of Brisbane. It is forecast to turn west and cross the Australian coast on Thursday or Friday.

Mr Mockus was attempting to become one of the few rowers who have crossed the Pacific alone and without stopping.

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Brit Peter Bird arguably became the first in 1983. He rowed from San Francisco and was towed the final 30 miles (48 kilometres) to the Australian mainland. But he is considered to have rowed close enough to Australia to have made the crossing.

Commander Arron Convery (C) and his crew members search for Mr Mockus in the Coral Sea - AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE/AFP via Getty Images)

Mr Mockuss boat, seen here in heavy seas, could not be recovered - Australian Defense Force via AP

Fellow Brit John Beeden rowed from San Francisco to the Queensland city of Cairns in 2015 and is considered by some to have made the first successful crossing.

Australian Michelle Lee became the first woman to make the crossing in 2023, rowing from Ensenada in Mexico to Queenslands Port Douglas.

Another Australian, Tom Robinson, in 2022 attempted to become the youngest to cross the Pacific, albeit with a break in the Cook Islands. He set out from Peru and spent 265 days at sea before he was rescued off Vanuatu in 2023.

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A wave capsized the 24-year-olds boat, leaving him clinging naked to the hull for 14 hours before he was rescued by a cruise ship that made a 124-mile (200 kilometre) detour to reach him.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
By Francois Murphy

VIENNA (Reuters) -Austria's first three-party government since the aftermath of World War Two took office on Monday, ending the country's longest-ever wait for a ruling coalition and keeping the Russia-friendly, far-right Freedom Party (FPO) out of power.

Although the FPO won September's parliamentary election with about 29% of the vote, the eurosceptic party failed to form a workable coalition, opening the door to a centrist alternative.

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When the FPO bid crumbled, the conservative People's Party (OVP), Social Democrats (SPO) and liberal Neos struck an alliance, overcoming their own earlier failure to do a deal.

"Now it is about cooperation, it is about getting things done," President Alexander Van der Bellen said as he swore in the new cabinet, hinting at concerns that a three-way coalition could prove fragile since two-party ones already have a habit of collapsing, as last happened in 2019 and 2017.

Had the latest centrist coalition effort failed, there would have been few alternatives to a snap election, which polls suggested would have increased the FPO's share of the vote.

The new government headed by Chancellor Christian Stocker of the OVP takes office after two years of recession, and plans spending cuts and tax hikes on big business to bring Austria's budget deficit back within European Union limits and avoid disciplinary proceedings from Brussels.

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"There is much to do, the challenges are great and far-reaching," Stocker said at a handover ceremony, taking over from caretaker Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg.

His government plans stricter immigration rules as well as tougher punishment against extremism and "political Islam" following a deadly knife attack by a Syrian refugee and planned Islamist attacks that were foiled.

The FPO has capitalised on concerns about immigration and security and it links the two issues, as have many far-right parties enjoying a resurgence across Europe. Having long called for an end to EU sanctions against Russia, it backs U.S. President Donald Trump's overtures to Moscow on Ukraine.

The OVP will head the interior and defence ministries while the Social Democrats will control finance and justice, with the liberal Neos running foreign affairs.

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Although the three parties have agreed a 200-page government programme, they will have to hammer out many more policies as they go along.

"Will it be easy? No. Are the negotiations over? No," Neos leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger said on Sunday, pledging "five years of tough negotiation" with the other parties.

The FPO has called for a snap election and will pressure them throughout.

"The only thing that unites this loser, traffic-light coalition is thirst for power," the FPO said on X on Monday, in a reference to a similar three-way coalition in neighbouring Germany that collapsed late last year.

(Reporting by Francois Murphy; Editing by Dave Graham and Alex Richardson)
Sitting in a CPC committee meeting in rural Sichuan, SW China, delegates from the Nepali Congress party are impressed by China's grass-root democracy.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
Herbert Kickl, the leader of the Austrian Freedom Party (FPO), has sharply criticised the EU for its policy towards Ukraine.

Source: Kickl in a statement on Monday, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The FPO leader, whose party won the elections last autumn but failed to form a government, said that the EU was endangering the Austrian population.

"While the US administration, led by President Trump, is trying to bring both sides to the negotiating table to end the suffering and death in Ukraine, the EU continues to rely on guns blazing and threatening gestures, thus further exacerbating the situation," Kickl said.

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He claimed that the EU elite is endangering the security of the population "to a degree that cannot be surpassed in terms of recklessness, irrationality and irresponsibility".

"To continue in the same way, only much worse: that's what it comes down to," Kickl added.

Background:

On Tuesday, 4 March, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will send a letter to the EU leaders outlining her vision of a plan to rearm Europe, which aims to strengthen EU defence and support Ukraine.

The day before, von der Leyen said that Ukraine needs to be put in a position of strength by providing it with the means of defence that will turn it into a kind of "steel porcupine".

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
By Francois Murphy

VIENNA (Reuters) - Just months before becoming chancellor of Austria on Monday, Christian Stocker was a party functionary with no ministerial experience, fast approaching retirement age and barely known outside the political bubble.

But five months of the most chaotic coalition talks in the country's postwar history, following an inconclusive election in September, have culminated in the low-key 64-year-old being sworn in as head of government.

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"The unknown (soon-to-be) chancellor," Austrian tabloid Kronen Zeitung headlined a recent profile of Stocker.

When first his conservative People's Party (OVP), then the far-right Freedom Party (FPO) bungled their chance to lead a government, Stocker was thrust into the driving seat, brokering a centrist coalition deal where his predecessor had failed.

A pragmatic, plain-speaking lawyer, Stocker has sought to keep increasingly right-leaning Austria firmly within the European Union and critical of Russia, unlike FPO leader Herbert Kickl, who now remains in opposition.

Stocker was a loyal lieutenant as OVP secretary-general to then party leader and chancellor Karl Nehammer, who quit in January after failing to craft a centrist coalition following the parliamentary election won by the FPO.

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In disarray, and lacking anyone with star power since its then talisman Sebastian Kurz fell from power in 2021, the OVP appointed Stocker interim leader.

Over the ensuing month, Kickl's attempt to form a government with the OVP collapsed, leaving Stocker the last man standing, and giving Austria's chastened centrists another chance.

Last Thursday, Stocker and the leaders of the centre-left Social Democrats and liberal Neos seized it.

Stocker told Austrian newspaper Die Presse he thought he had no prospects of becoming OVP leader when Nehammer resigned.

"The day the decision was taken, I drove to Vienna in jeans and a roll-neck jumper," he said. "A few hours later, I had to ask for a suit and tie to be brought to me."

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IMPERTURBABLE

The son of an electrician-turned-politician, Stocker cut his teeth in local politics in his provincial hometown and only entered parliament in 2019 when an OVP seat became vacant.

He now heads Austria's first three-party government since the late 1940s, and becomes the third successive OVP chancellor to enter office for the first time without having led the party into the election campaign.

That may be just as well, since the measured Stocker has few hallmarks of a natural campaigner. But he has shown resilience and an imperturbable manner.

"I wouldn't call him a vote-getter, but he's held things together through an incredibly difficult time for the People's Party," political analyst Thomas Hofer said.

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Stocker takes the helm after two years of recession and concern over immigration helped the FPO win an Austrian parliamentary election for the first time.

His unprecedented coalition of parties struggling to hold off the FPO looks likely to be fragile, and friction between them ultimately sank Nehammer's bid to stay in power.

Helped by circumstances, Stocker has had more success balancing their competing interests so far.

His first task was to negotiate with the FPO, having spent months defending Nehammer's refusal to.

Even after those talks unravelled in acrimony, FPO boss Kickl praised Stocker - who had condemned the FPO's proximity to Russia - saying they had built a good working relationship.

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Reinhard Heinisch, a political scientist at the University of Salzburg, said Stocker appeared more astute than Nehammer, and since his age made him unlikely to lead the OVP into the next election, he could focus on keeping the coalition afloat.

The next election is due by 2029.

"Expectations are generally low for Stocker," said Heinisch. "And that could be an advantage if he can play the role of the grizzled, caustic, savvy leader who knows how to run things and makes people feel secure."

(Reporting by Francois Murphy; Additional reporting by Dave Graham; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne)
Gov. Kelly Ayotte signs Senate Bill 4, a bill to revamp the state's C-PACER program to allow for easier financing of energy-efficient housing developments on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025. (Photo by Ethan DeWitt/New Hampshire Bulletin)

In 2010, New Hampshire lawmakers passed a law intended to make it easier to finance and build apartment buildings with energy-efficiency systems.

The mechanism  known as C-PACER  is widely popular; 40 states have passed similar programs, according to the advocacy group PaceNation.

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But 15 years after it passed in New Hampshire, no cities or towns here have implemented the financing tool, despite a high demand for housing. Observers say the New Hampshire program was poorly designed and unfeasible, putting too much logistical work onto towns.

Now, the program is getting a revamp. On Thursday, Gov. Kelly Ayotte signed Senate Bill 4, which will replace the existing program starting in 2026 and put implementation into the hands of the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority.

It was Ayottes first bill signing since becoming governor, and one that some say could help speed up long-needed housing development.

By making it easier for private sector partners to finance projects and removing the administrative burden on municipalities, were taking an important step in the right direction to increase the supply of attainable housing for our growing workforce, Ayotte said in a statement.

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C-PACER, which stands for commercial property assessed clean energy or resiliency, is meant to give developers and towns a way to work together to lower some of the costs to build new housing or upgrade existing housing.

If a property owner is interested in adding energy efficiency improvements to new or existing property, they can use C-PACER to raise funding from private lenders. C-PACER allows those lenders to apply a special assessment lien onto the property, which then attaches to the property and must be paid off by any subsequent property owners.

The idea: The energy efficiency upgrades will bring savings to the developer or property owner in the long run, and those expected savings ensure that they can pay off the loans they received through the C-PACER program.

C-PACE effectively takes every energy component part of a building project, takes it out of the first mortgage and puts it in a second mortgage that has the equivalency of a, or the priority of a, municipal tax lien, said New Hampshire developer Steve Duprey at a Jan. 9 Senate Commerce Committee hearing for Senate Bill 4, using an alternative acronym for C-PACER.

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Thats helpful because it means the first mortgage is much easier to obtain, Duprey said. It means that payments for all of the energy pieces of a development can be spread out over a longer period of time  sometimes 30 to 40 years. And because the lien attaches to the property, lenders have a higher chance of recouping their investments.

To Duprey, the law could be a significant tool to address New Hampshires housing shortage.

This will be one of the most effective things you can have, because it will reduce those down payments and allow developers  profit and not for profit  to generate more projects, Duprey said.

Both the 2010 law and the 2025 law require that towns opt in to the C-PACER program; they must adopt a resolution that explicitly authorizes this type of financing.

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But while well-intentioned, the 2010 law was unworkable for most towns, according to James Key-Wallace, executive director of the Business Finance Authority.

Under the old law, C-PACE was asking all the municipalities in New Hampshire to do all the work, and each do it on their own, Key-Wallace said in an interview Thursday. Each town had to develop and vet a list of qualified contractors (and) engineers, do all the billing for all the borrowers  the municipality had to chase down delinquent borrowers. Effectively, Key-Wallace said, the towns had to act as lenders.

Some small towns are just volunteers, he said. It was an unreasonable ask.

This time around, Key-Wallaces agency is stepping in. The new law requires the Business Finance Authority to develop a C-PACER application process for developers to prove that the project really will bring about energy savings or environmental benefits, and that it provides a benefit to the public.

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The law allows the BFA to contract with a private or governmental authority to carry out administration of the program.

Should a city or town opt in to the program by passing the resolution, it may then designate one or more energy efficiency and clean energy districts, where the C-PACER lending agreements are allowed. The municipality can make their entire town or city into a district if they desire.

After that, if developers want to pursue C-PACER financing for an energy-efficiency project, a renewable energy project, or an environmental resiliency project, they can apply to the BFA. The developers must carry out engineering studies showing that the project is both feasible and effective at its goal.

Then, with approval from the BFA, the municipality must sign off on a final financing agreement, at which point the special assessment lien is created. The municipality is responsible for collecting payments on the lien on behalf of the developers, but is allowed to outsource that task to a contractor.

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As Ayotte signed the bill, she was surrounded by major players who supported the bill, including the Business and Industry Association, the New Hampshire Municipal Association, and the New Hampshire Bankers Association.

Kristy Merrill, president of the Bankers Association, said in an interview that the Bankers Association had pushed for guardrails for banks to be able to pull out of financing ahead of the final agreement. Those guardrails are included, she said.

It is unclear how much take-up there will be among cities and towns for the C-PACER program. But Key-Wallace says he expects there to be pent-up demand now that the program has been retooled. Developers are interested, and they could lobby towns to follow suit.

Key-Wallace says his department is ready to handle the administrative efforts. The BFA is tasked with helping businesses obtain a variety of loans, bonds, and financing mechanisms.

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In the coming weeks, the agency will produce a guidance document for municipalities and developers to learn more about how the new process works, Key-Wallace said, though towns cant move on it until next January.

We expect a lot of interest, he said.
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (AP)  A baby seal found stranded on a street near Connecticut's Yale University last month has died from severe digestive issues, a local aquarium announced Monday.

Mystic Aquarium said Chappy, a nod to Chapel Street in New Haven where he was rescued, died while recovering at its Animal Rescue Clinic.

The Mystic Aquarium staff are proud that they were able to give Chappy the best chance possible and are devastated by this outcome, the aquarium wrote on Facebook. The reality of working with stranded animals can be tough sometimes, but Chappy was surrounded by love until the very end.

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The underweight gray seal pup was brought to the clinic on Feb. 16 after being spotted by a passerby, who reported to police that the animal was potentially injured.

The seal, which was believed to be about 5 to 6 weeks old, was more than 1,000 feet (300 meters) from the nearest river.

The aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut, said Chappy had been responding well to treatment for dehydration, malnutrition and a mild pneumonia but began having digestive difficulties as he transitioned to eating whole fish.

A necropsy found Chappy suffered from mesenteric torsion, a challenging condition in which his intestines were twisted around the mesentery, cutting off blood supply to a large portion of the gastrointestinal tract," according to the aquarium.

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Unfortunately, despite all the efforts, his gastrointestinal issues were too severe to treat, and he succumbed to his disease, the aquarium said.

Gray seals are found in coastal waters across the North Atlantic Ocean and typically feast on fish, crustaceans, squid, octopuses, and sometimes seabirds, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
NEW YORK  Ten months after pro-Palestinian demonstrators occupied Hamilton Hall at Columbia University, a student at its sister school, Barnard College, has been expelled, the campus protest group Columbia University Apartheid Divest announced Monday. Another student was suspended.

Barnard administrators reportedly told the individual they were removed from the rosters late last week. That followed the expulsions of two other Barnard students for the recent disruption of an Israeli history class, prompting dozens of demonstrators to briefly occupy a separate building last week.

Barnard would not confirm any disciplinary actions, citing federal law. A college spokeswoman directed the Daily News to last weeks statement after two students were expelled for the class disruption, where protesters handed out flyers of a boot stomping on the Star of David, a Jewish symbol.

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When rules are broken, when there is no remorse, no reflection, and no willingness to change, we must act. Expulsion is always an extraordinary measure, but so too is our commitment to respect, inclusion, and the integrity of the academic experience, read the statement from Barnard President Laura Rosenbury.

Columbia University Apartheid Divest ascribed the crackdown to outside pressure.

Last Thursday, President Donald Trumps Justice Department announced a task force would visit ten college campuses  including Columbia and New York University  to investigate allegations of antisemitism. A day later, the student learned of their expulsion.

Rather than engage with students or divest [from Israel], Barnard has rushed to satisfy the U.S. Department of Justice by sanctioning and expelling students, the group wrote in a press release.

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The other student inside Hamilton Hall was suspended for nearly two years, Columbia University Apartheid Divest said.

Fridays expulsion appears to be the first for the occupation of Hamilton Hall, according to Columbia University Apartheid Divest, which has been tracking disciplinary action for campus protest activity.

While the precise number of Barnard students who participated in the takeover is not publicly known, there were six students from schools affiliated with Columbia, such as Barnard and the Union Theological Seminary.

Neither Columbia nor the student protest group has announced any expulsions on the main university campus.

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Columbia became the epicenter for pro-Palestinian protests last spring when an encampment in support of Gaza launched copycat tent cities on American college campuses.

The demonstration came to a head in late April as protesters took Hamilton Hall, damaging property and trapping custodians inside. One officer accidentally discharged a gun, the NYPD said; students documented injuries among nine of the dozens of protesters arrested inside the building.

Most charges were dropped against the demonstrators. On Columbias campus, the vast majority of students involved were able to enroll in classes this year while waiting for their disciplinary hearings, which were expected to begin in late January.

Barnard, a separate institution from Columbia, has its own disciplinary procedures. Last month, Columbia University Apartheid Divest said 46 Barnard students had been suspended for pro-Palestinian activism over the last couple of school years.

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It was not clear on Monday how the protesters planned to respond. Last week, after the two students were expelled, dozens of demonstrators took over Milbank Hall  where the deans office was located  for several hours, cancelling classes in the building and hospitalizing a security guard.

Bipartisan elected officials, from U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson to Mayor Eric Adams, have condemned the building takeover.

I know the conflict in the Middle East has left many of us grieving and angry, and while New Yorkers have every right to express their sorrow, that heartbreak does not give anyone the right to harass or threaten others, to physically harm anyone, or to trespass on private property, Adams said in a statement late Thursday.

We must always ensure the safety of all students and staff on our college campuses.
A suspected gunman who shot an NYPD detective while barricaded in a Manhattan apartment has been indicted on attempted murder and weapon possession charges, officials said Monday.

Prosecutors said Edwin Rivera, 34, nearly killed a cop when he fired through a Lower East Side apartment door after a long, tense standoff with detectives who were trying to execute a search warrant last month.

Cops said Rivera had opened fire on cops two separate times during the four-hour lockdown, and wounded the detective when he shot at cops the second time.

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Rivera was also wounded during the Feb. 18 exchange, and arrested, officials said.

We have absolutely no tolerance for any conduct that harms police officers, and the charges in this indictment reflect the seriousness with which we are treating this incident, said Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. I want to thank the members of the NYPD who put on their uniforms every day to selflessly protect New Yorkers. Their jobs are incredibly dangerous, and I hope the detective who was shot will continue to recover from his injuries. I thank him, and everyone else on the scene that day, for their bravery and commitment to keeping everyone safe.

According to cops and court records, police were trying to execute a search warrant shortly after 5 a.m. at a sixth-floor apartment at NYCHAs Vladeck Houses on Madison St.

Rivera, a convicted felon with multiple prior arrests for gun possession and narcotics, quickly barricaded himself inside, using a couch to block the entry door, officials said.

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A police Emergency Service Unit was looking for guns at the location, cops said.

When cops made their first attempt to get inside, Rivera shot at them, hitting an officers ballistic shield, police said. No one was hurt that time, and the officers did not return fire.

Cops pulled back and tried to negotiate with him, and even launched a FaceTime session with the suspect until he cut off communication, officials said.

At one point, cops thought a woman was being held hostage in the apartment, but he was in the unit alone.

After they lost contact with Rivera, the officers tried to get in again. Thats when he opened fire once more, shooting the detective in the shoulder and getting wounded when cops returned fire, according to the indictment.

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The shooting of a uniformed police officer is an attack on our entire city, said Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch.

This indictment serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that NYPD police officers face every day while working to keep New York City safe. As their noble work continues, we remain committed to closely collaborating with the Manhattan district attorneys office to ensure that those who endanger the security of New Yorkers are held fully accountable.

Rivera was charged with first-degree and second-degree attempted murder, attempted assault, criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Cops said Rivera threw a bag of drugs through his window onto the street.

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Rivera was struck in his leg and torso. The detective, a 20-year department veteran, was treated and released.

Tisch called Rivera a career criminal who should not have been out of jail. She said he has been out on parole four times, including for a November arrest for criminal possession of stolen property in which he was charged only with resisting arrest,

Were grateful for [the detectives] safety, but were also angry, Mayor Adams said at the time of the shooting. Were angry because the shooter is a violent, repeated offender with prior gun arrests, who was on parole for narcotics use and sales,
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  A man was arrested in connection to a deadly Sunday night shooting.

Jermaine Jones, 52, was arrested and charged with manslaughter. He was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.

The Baton Rouge Police Department said Kedreon Robinson, 23, was shot to death around 7 p.m. Sunday on McClelland Drive after an argument in a parking lot.

Police noted that Jones was previously arrested on a charge of illegal possession of stolen things.

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Southern University campus police look for person of interest after student hurt in shooting

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UPDATE BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  The tornado watch for the capital area has been dropped, and the severe weather threat has diminished.

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First)  Louisiana is under a severe weather threat for Fat Tuesday. High winds and strong to severe thunderstorms are possible Tuesday afternoon and evening.

A slight risk and an enhanced risk for severe weather are in place for parts of Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama.

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A tornado watch was issued for parts of Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, and Mississippi until 7 p.m. Area parishes include Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana. A high wind warning is also in effect.

According to the National Weather Service, scattered to severe thunderstorms will move through southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi on Tuesday, possibly between noon and 9 p.m.

Damaging winds and a few tornadoes are the most likely threat. Have multiple ways to receive warnings, and know where your safe place is in the event you need to take shelter, and go to your safe place immediately if a warning is issued for your area, the NWS said.

NWS New Orleans released information on peak wind speeds across the state as of noon Tuesday. Reports showed high wind speeds of 53 mph at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and 49 mph at LSU Tiger Stadium.

Severe Risk Tue Rainfall Fcst Wind Warning

Firings at US weather and oceans agency risk lives and economy, former agency heads warn

Warm and muggy with rain likely for Mardi Gras 

Mardi Gras will be warm, muggy and windy, with rain chances increasing around lunchtime. The day will start with milder temperatures, as morning lows will be near 60 degrees. Skies will be partly to mostly cloudy. Highs will be in the mid to upper 70s.

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This will be a very warm and muggy day as southeasterly winds continue streaming in warmer air and moisture from the Gulf. Additional moisture in the atmosphere is a key ingredient for thunderstorms to develop.

Winds will be around 20-30 mph, but wind gusts could reach 40+ mph.

Wednesday weather forecast 

Once the cold front clears out of the area, things will quiet down again. Wednesday mornings lows will be in the low 50s. Northwest winds will bring in cooler and drier air. It will be a nice, sunny and breezy day with lower temperatures and humidity. Highs will be in the mid-60s.

Winds will be around 10-15 mph, but wind gusts could reach 20-25 mph.

New Orleans celebrates Mardi Gras Day with costumes and revelry despite weather concerns

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Following President Trump and JD Vances public row with Volodymyr Zelensky, Sir Keir Starmer hosted the Ukrainian leader and vowed to put together a coalition of the willing, saying we are at a crossroads in history. So what must Britain do now to survive in Trumps new world order? The Telegraphs David Blair, former foreign policy speech writer at No10, talks us through the six steps the British Prime Minister should do to adapt.

Plus: As the first stage of the Hamas-Israel ceasefire expired over the weekend, The Telegraphs Israel correspondent Henry Bodkin speaks with the sister-in-law of hostages Iair and Eitan Horn. Iair was recently released but Eitan is still in Gaza. She talks about her fears for Eitans life if the ceasefire collapses.

Battle Lines, a podcast from The Telegraph, combines on-the-ground reporting with analytical expertise to help the listener to better understand the course of world politics, wars and tensions, as fault lines grind and slip in an increasingly dangerous and confusing multipolar world.

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Listen to Battle Lines using the audio player in this article or on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favourite podcast app.

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HANOI, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The Vietnamese Ministry of Health is considering relaxing its two-child policy due to a low birth rate, one of the lowest in Southeast Asia, Vietnam News Agency reported Monday.

The ministry proposed allowing couples to decide the number and timing of their children, as well as addressing regional disparities in birth rates.

Vietnam's birth rate hit a record low in 2024 with the total fertility rate dropping to just 1.91 children per woman, marking the third consecutive year below replacement level, according to the Vietnam Population Authority under the Ministry of Health.

Vietnam's current birth rate is below the regional average of 2.0 children per woman. 
The most senior news executive at the BBC watched its controversial Gaza documentary before it was broadcast but failed to question it, The Telegraph can disclose.

Deborah Turness, the chief executive of BBC news and current affairs, was a guest at a special BBC screening held almost three weeks before the airing of Gaza: How to Survive a War Zone.

The documentary has now been removed from iPlayer after it emerged the boy narrating the programme was the son of a senior Hamas official.

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The BBC has since identified serious flaws in the making of the programme, including its failure to uncover the connection as well as payments made to the Hamas officials family.

A BBC source said Ms Turness, who earns more than 410,000 a year, assumed the programme was fully compliant with BBC guidelines when she watched it at a preview screening.

The source said she did not question any elements of the programme because it was being shown as the finished product.

The admission will inevitably prompt concern about the role Ms Turness  who launched the BBC Verify fact-checking service two years ago  played in the fiasco.

Deborah Turness attended a special BBC screening held almost three weeks before the documentary was aired - Leon Neal/Getty Images Europe

A spokesman for UK Lawyers for Israel, which made a complaint to police about possible payments to Hamas, said: This must raise questions about her ability to do the job. She should have raised questions about compliance.

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Sir Michael Ellis, the former attorney general who has been highly critical of BBC reporting in the Middle East, said: This has been a shocking and disgraceful failure of compliance. BBC management must take full responsibility.

Writing for The Telegraph, David Collier, an investigative journalist, said it took him just a few hours to work out that Abdullah, the child narrator, is the son of Hamass deputy minister for agriculture.

In an article that will further heap pressure on Ms Turness, Mr Collier wrote: If I can find out that Abdullahs father is a Hamas official while sitting in a room in London  then so can the BBC fact-checkers. They did not find it because they never bothered to look.

Mr Collier tracked down Abdullah by doing a reverse image search that led him to a Channel 4 news item and publicly available social media posts. In the course of just two hours the mask finally slipped completely.

The BBC has admitted asking the independent makers of the documentary a number of times in writing if the boy and his family had connections to Hamas, which appear to have gone unanswered.

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A source inside the BBC insisted Ms Turnesss attendance at the screening on Jan 30, to which journalists were also invited, was common practice. The documentary was not broadcast until Feb 19, almost three weeks later.

The source said: We didnt give this documentary any special treatment. This was a compiled programme by the time she [Ms Turness] saw it. It was a finished programme.

She saw it in her capacity as CEO of BBC News, knowing it is a finished product, rather than with a compliance eye on it. She would have assumed the due diligence checks had already taken place.

The source said responsibility for compliance lay with the documentarys commissioning editors and Jo Carr, the BBCs head of current affairs, who praised it as a story of immense consequence in a press release issued on Jan 20.

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Tim Davie, the BBCs director-general, and Dr Samir Shah, the BBC chairman, will be questioned on how the programme was aired without disclaimers and full transparency at a parliamentary select committee on Tuesday.

One insider on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee said: This is clearly very bad for the BBC and the committee is going to give them a very hard time over it.

Dorothy Byrne, Channel 4s head of news and current affairs until 2020, has told the BBC she should have done her own checks.

They could easily have found out about him, it shows that due diligence was not done, she said, adding: I didnt wait for people to inform me of things. I asked them the right questions.

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After an initial investigation that uncovered the serious flaws, the BBC has drafted in Peter Johnston, its director of Editorial Complaints and Reviews, to conduct his own review.

The BBC accepted in a statement last week that the incident had damaged public trust.

BBC never found the documentarys Hamas link... because it never bothered to look

By David Collier

It was about 1am on Feb 18 and the now infamous BBC documentary Gaza: How to Survive a War Zone had just aired four hours before. I was still trying to properly identify the star of the show, the narrator, who we only knew as Abdullah.

A reverse image search finally gave me a hit from a Channel 4 news piece  and for a while I thought I knew who he was. I soon found out Channel 4 had misnamed him and even attached him to the wrong father.

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By following publicly available social media posts, the mask finally slipped completely. I knew that the BBC documentary had been secretly fronted by the son of a senior Hamas government official.

What followed, from the BBCs initial hesitation and backtracking all the way to Thursdays apology, is public knowledge. But we must not be distracted into believing that this ends the story, nor that this is all about a single documentary.

Just take the contradictions in the BBCs argument.

The BBC suggests on the one hand that there is a problem with fact-checking the news from Gaza because it does not have anyone physically there to verify what is being reported. If this is true, then why on earth did it commission a documentary and then spend 400,000 of the licence-fee money on making one?

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Its own argument ridicules its decision-making.

And lets face it, if I can find out that Abdullahs father is a Hamas official while sitting in a room in London  then so can the BBC fact-checkers. They did not find it  because they never bothered to look.

It is not the only problem with the BBCs messaging. We are told this documentary had to be made to give voice to unheard voices. However, each of the documentarys key subjects had already appeared on major networks before. So which unheard story exactly needed to be told?

And it is these contradictions that reveal the far greater problem underneath.

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The BBC has an institutional and obsessive problem with Israel that is so bad, when it comes to reporting on the Jewish state, the BBCs collective brain falls out.

It starts with an engine room full of activists dressed as journalists, who are desperately seeking new ways to demonise the only functioning democracy in the Middle East.

I hear that for every Israel-sympathetic article suggestion the BBC editorial teams receive, there are more than a dozen skewing the other way.

Not all get accepted of course, but motivation is key here, and the trend is towards ever more outrageous claims, with less and less editorial oversight as the BBC becomes institutionally desensitised to its own obsessions and failings.

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As time goes on, you can imagine those involved becoming increasingly confident that nobody is even looking.

We have plenty of receipts from when the BBC was caught using terror group-affiliated witnesses or journalists, which it should have gone nowhere near.

Which is how it ends with the BBCs reputation in tatters, as the UKs state broadcaster is now known to have aired a documentary full of Hamas propaganda and handed money to the family of a Hamas official to be able to do it.

The only reason we can say this out loud today is because it was caught red-handed in a failing so catastrophic, none of its usual excuses or denials would suffice.

But what about all the times we did not? It has been arrogantly churning out skewed material not for years but for decades and getting away with it.

Consider this: had everything else been equal  and this documentary is full of serious problems  and only the Hamas family connection been removed  that documentary would still exist on iPlayer. It may even have gone on to gain recognition and awards.

This is how bad the situation on reporting on Israel has become. On this occasion, perhaps we should be thankful that the production team was so sloppy.

David Collier is an investigative journalist and undercover researcher of anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism

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Bell County, Tx (FOX 44)  Bell County Judge David Blackburn has issued an emergency order prohibiting outdoor burning.

The order comes as high winds bringing dry air from West Texas is predicted for the next couple days.

The order will remain in effect for seven days unless otherwise extended by further order by the Bell County Commissioners Court.

Any reported burning in violation of the order will bring a response from the appropriate fire department to put it out and if a responding peace officer finds the person responsible for the fire, a citation will be issued.

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Governor Abbott today also announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources in anticipation of extremely critical wildfire danger expected across West Texas and an increased risk of severe storms in North and East Texas this week.

As the state faces increased wildfire risks in West Texas and potential severe storms in North and East Texas, Texas stands ready to swiftly deploy additional emergency response resources to communities that may be impacted, said Governor Abbott. West Texans are strongly urged to limit any activities that may cause sparks or flames as dry conditions and sustained winds persist. North and East Texas communities should follow the guidance of state and local officials and take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their loved ones safe during potential severe storms this week. I thank emergency management personnel and first responders for their tireless work across the state to keep Texans safe.

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, dry surface fuels and sustained winds across the western regions support optimal conditions for fast moving wildfires in areas including the Panhandle, South Plains, Concho Valley, Big Country, Permian Basin, Far West, Hill Country, and portions of North, Central, and South Texas. The Texas A&M Forest Service has raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 3, indicating that wildfire activity is impacting several regions of the state as the result of drought, dry vegetation, or frequent fire weather events.

TDEM and the Texas Emergency Management Council agencies are also monitoring the potential for severe weather to impact the northern and eastern regions of the state through the first part of this week. The National Weather Service is forecasting an increased threat of severe storms, with primary risks including tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail, as well as heavy rainfall causing flash flooding.

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At the Governors direction the Texas Department of Emergency Management ordered the Texas A&M Forest Service Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System to be ready.

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Last Friday, before President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office and proceeded to embarrass America before the entire world, I happened to publish a piece here in Salon about how Trump's anger and resentment were driving him and, in some cases, were making him lose control. Trump has always had a short temper, but since he's been back in the White House he's been lashing out in public more aggressively than in the past and it's most often when someone fails to show what he deems to be proper deference.

For instance, he imperiously cut off UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in a joint press conference last week as Starmer was talking about Canada. He also rudely chastised the governor of Maine in a room full of other governors over her decision to follow state and federal law relating to transgender citizens and anti-discrimination protections. But his unhinged behavior toward Zelenskyy in that White House meeting on Friday was nothing less than a verbal beat down staged for the media, as Trump more or less admitted at the end when he said "this is going to be great television."

The meeting began normally enough despite the fact that Trump had been insulting Zelenskyy nonstop for days, calling him a dictator and daftly claiming that Ukraine had started the war. He'd even ordered the U.S. to vote with North Korea and Iran against a UN resolution calling for a secure and lasting peace because it blamed Russia for the war. Nevertheless, Zelenskyy gamely flew to Washington on the heels of earlier visits by the French and UK leaders trying to calm Trump down, agreeing to the "minerals deal" (or the "raw earth," as Trump insanely refers to them). He hoped to convince Trump that he needs some kind of security guarantee with any peace deal or cease fire because the thuggish war criminal Putin can't be trusted to keep his word so Ukraine would be a sitting duck.

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Trump and Vice President JD Vance obviously had other plans. Vice presidents never jump into photo-ops and press events to berate a foreign leader  but JD Vance did just that, rudely interrupting to make as shallow comment about America being a good country because it engages in diplomacy. That prompted Zelenskyy to politely ask if it was OK to respond.

Clearly taken aback by Trump's repeated insistence that Russia had suffered just as much as Ukraine in the war, Zelenskyy spoke about all the earlier agreements for ceasefires that Russia had signed since 2014 and then promptly broke. "What kind of diplomacy, JD, are you speaking about?" Zelenskyy pressed. Like the nasty junior high mean girl he is at heart, Vance snapped back that "it's the kind of diplomacy that's going to end the destruction of your country." It was at that point that he claimed Zelenskyy was disrespectful and should instead thank the president for his generosity.

Vance then proceeded to go after Zelenskyy for forcibly conscripting soldiers (something the Trump administration has been telling them they have to do) and when Zelenskyy said that he should come to Ukraine to see what it's like, Vance was forced to admit that he'd never been but had seen "the stories" of Zelenskyy's "propaganda tours." That's what JD Vance likes to call diplomacy apparently.

Trump then entered the chat to berate Zelenskyy for saying that the U.S. would be affected by Putin's aggression, screaming in his face like a drunk real housewife, "don't tell us how to feel! We're strong!" He then went on to tell him that he "has no cards" and he's "gambling with WWIII" whining that Zelenskyy wasn't being thankful enough and he didn't think that was "nice." He said Zelenskyy's hatred for Putin (for invading his country and killing hundreds of thousands of its citizens) was the problem in getting to a deal. He also repeated his fatuous insistence that he could trust Putin because they had both been persecuted by the "Russia hoax," after which he proceeded to rant incoherently about Hunter Biden's bathroom.

Reporter: What if Russia breaks the ceasefire?



Trump: What if a bomb drops on your head? You either a make a deal or were out. Youre not acting thankful. Thats not a nice thing. This is going to be great television pic.twitter.com/YFU8P9aXCO  Acyn (@Acyn) February 28, 2025

That performance was hailed by all the GOP sycophants as a "master class" in diplomacy.

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As he has pretty much been insisting from the day Putin invaded and Trump called it a "genius" and "savvy" move, Trump clearly believes Putin is entitled to take what he wants and that America supplying Ukraine with arms to fight him is a waste of money and a waste of time. His refusal to even talk about a security guarantee translates to surrender since we know that Putin will not keep his word. This is all theatre and that weird meeting was clearly a set-up to give Trump the excuse he needs to withdraw completely. Perhaps the sickest part of it was that he wanted Zelenskyy to lick both his and Putins' boots in public while he did it.

If Europe is unable to fully support Ukraine and Russia finally overruns Ukraine and commits more atrocities like they did in places like Bucha, Trump and his henchmen will simply say that Zelenskyy was asking for it. Trump now hands out a red hat that says "Trump was right about everything" and as long as he can blame someone else for the carnage he creates the people around him are willing to let him believe it.

The Europeans called an emergency meeting in London over the weekend and invited Zelenskyy to attend. They all ostentatiously embraced him and each other in a show of total unity.

 BREAKING: Thirteen prime ministers and two presidents are attending todays emergency Ukraine summit in London:



 Starmer

 Zelensky

 Macron

 Scholz

 Meloni

 Tusk

 Trudeau

 Sanchez

 Frederiksen

 Stre

 Stubb

 Kristersson

 Schoof

 Fiala

 Bolojan

 pic.twitter.com/TmjGAdrGL6  Chris D. Jackson (@ChrisDJackson) March 2, 2025

(He even had a meeting with King Charles which I'm sure irritated Trump.) There seems to be some idea that maybe things with the U.S. can be patched up, perhaps just long enough for them to gather the necessary support to Ukraine which may very well include troops on the ground. But there is little doubt that the U.S. is now out. They have accepted it. The question is whether they are going to go along with Trump and his minions throwing their weight around at NATO, the G7 or the G20 anymore. Why should they?

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For Europe this isn't theatre and Zelenskyy isn't a plaything to entertain themselves as they perform for Vladimir Putin. Forcing Ukraine to surrender because Trump has withdrawn his "cards" isn't really an option for them. Putin is knocking on their door and unlike Trump they know what he is and they know what he wants.

Zelenskyy was right when he said that just because there's an ocean between us and them, we will still feel the reverberations of what is happening. Trump may stupidly think that he and Putin have a bond but Putin thinks Trump is a joke. He's played Trump perfectly from the moment he met him and his efforts are bearing fruit. The whole world sees that America is now a paper tiger run by a fool and that's a very bad position for a fading superpower to be in.
BENTON COUNTY, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The Benton County Fire Marshal has issued a 24-hour county-wide burn ban.

The county says a 24-hour burn ban is issued when weather conditions exist temporarily to ban outdoor burning.

Head-on crash in Benton County leaves one dead, one injured

Benton County,. along with Searcy and Phillps counties, are currently under a burn ban, according to the Arkansas Forestry Division.

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All of Northwest Arkansas is under moderate fire danger.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
In the lead-up to Inauguration Day, all six of the United States largest banks backed away from a United Nations-sponsored climate initiative amid attacks from conservative lawmakers and regulators.

Bank of America, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo left the Net Zero Banking Alliance between December and January in what was perceived to be a concession to right-wing criticism of so-called ESG  decision-making driven by environmental, social, and corporate governance considerations. Nineteen Republican attorneys general had issued civil investigative demands to those banks in 2022, demanding that they turn over information about their ESG practices. They argued that the alliance was beholden to the woke climate agenda and that it violated antitrust laws.

While the banks exodus from the alliance certainly looks like a setback for the banking sectors climate progress, environmental advocates say it is a reminder that voluntary initiatives have never been sufficient to drive the sectors decarbonization.

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There are other levers that we can use to hold banks accountable, said Allison Fajans-Turner, a senior energy finance campaigner at the nonprofit Rainforest Action Network, which publishes an annual report on how much money banks commit to fossil fuel projects. In light of the Trump administrations pro-oil and gas agenda, she said that over the next four years, activists and policymakers will have to keep the pressure on and, critically, push for stricter legislation at the state and international levels.

It is quite clear that major U.S. banks will not police themselves, she added.

The Net Zero Banking Alliance, or NZBA, launched in 2021 under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative and has about 140 members after the six American banks  and four Canadian ones  exited. The alliance asks member banks to commit to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across their operations and lending and investment portfolios by 2050, and to set intermediary emissions reduction targets for 2030 and every five years thereafter. It also asks banks to disclose their annual emissions, and sets some recommendations to limit the application of carbon offsets toward banks climate goals.

Exterior of a Bank of America building, with blurred people walking outside of it.

However, much like the Paris Agreement to limit global warming, the NZBA relies on voluntary participation and compliance, and does not have any enforcement authority. Its been criticized for not asking enough from its members, which are allowed to participate even if they continue underwriting the expansion of oil and gas infrastructure. U.N. proposals that would tighten its requirements  particularly around financing of fossil fuels  faced strong opposition from recently departed banks like JP Morgan and Bank of America.

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Even some of the NZBA banks themselves have acknowledged the alliances limitations in the face of government inaction. In 2023, Amalgamated Banks chief sustainability officer, Ivan Frishberg, told the business publication Responsible Investor that NZBA signatories were being left alone at the altar as governments around the world failed to legislate a transition away from fossil fuels. GLS Bank, based in Germany, quit the alliance that same year in protest of other NZBA members support for fossil fuel projects in Africa.

Wells Fargo declined to comment on the rationale behind its departure from the NZBA. Goldman Sachs said it had made significant progress on its net-zero goals but did not explain why it left the alliance. The other four recently departed banks did not respond to inquiries from Grist.

Unlike voluntary initiatives, governments have the authority to ensure that banks live up to their stated climate promises and to push them to do more. At an event in New York City last November  notably, even before the NZBA shakeup  the former deputy secretary to the U.S. Treasury, Sarah Bloom Raskin, suggested that states should take on this role.

States have a unique opportunity to lead, she said, noting the incoming presidential administrations hostility to climate action. At the time, California had already passed two laws requiring large businesses, including banks, to report their greenhouse gas emissions annually and disclose their climate-related financial risks biannually. Those laws recently survived a legal challenge from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and New York state lawmakers introduced similar bills in January. A Democratic state representative in Illinois introduced a disclosure bill last month.

Sarah Bloom Raskin leans into a microphone.

Danielle Fugere, president and chief counsel for the shareholder advocacy nonprofit As You Sow, said disclosure is a prerequisite for holding banks to their climate goals. We want to understand what it is theyre doing, she said. Laws like Californias bring to light the financial instability wrought by fossil fuel-driven climate change and  in theory, at least  discourage financing that would exacerbate it.

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Of course, merely requiring that banks disclose their emissions and climate-related risks isnt likely to prevent the worst impacts of global warming. According to a landmark 2021 report from the International Energy Agency, no new oil, gas, and coal infrastructure can be built if the world is to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit). Thats why Patrick McCully, a senior energy transition analyst for the French nonprofit Reclaim Finance, which advocates for a more sustainable banking sector, said legislators should be pushing the banks to reduce their financing of fossil fuels.

These companies are acting against the interests of humanity, and we need to stop them, he told Grist.

Fajans-Turner, however, said a policy of this nature would be difficult to write into law and would likely face legal challenges even in the most progressive states, where natural gas bans on new construction have been beaten back by industry groups.

Ann Lipton, a business law professor at Tulane University, said a better way for policymakers to limit new fossil fuel projects is to look beyond the banking sector. For instance, lawmakers could require insurance companies to factor in climate-related financial risks when designing their policies  which could make it harder for fossil fuel projects to get coverage. We would love banks to stop financing risky activities, but at the end of the day, the job of a bank is to finance things that are predictably profitable, she said. Its the job of the rest of society to make that [thing] not profitable.

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Another strategy is to require that banks publish a clear decarbonization plan, which can, in theory, be a sort of back door to blocking new fossil fuel investments. Implicit in having a target is that the bank is taking some kind of action to ensure that it meets that target, Fugere said. If a plan mentions net-zero by a certain date, then to be credible it must involve some sort of scaling back of fossil fuel financing. If it claims to align with a pathway to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees C, then it must not enable the expansion of fossil fuels.

Exterior of a brick building with the Wells Fargo logo visible. Tree branches brush the building.

In the U.S., investors like As You Sow have pressured several big banks into voluntarily offering more information about their plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but requests for greater detail were rebuffed last year. (At least one bank, Wells Fargo, has done an about-face, recently dropping its net-zero target altogether.)

Legislation to require detailed decarbonization plans has seen more success on the international stage. The European Union, for instance, is beginning to use two corporate sustainability directives approved by its parliament to require financial institutions to adopt a transition plan for climate change mitigation. The laws require institutions to make their best efforts to ensure that their plans are compatible with a pathway toward achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees C.

McCully said these regulations are promising but noted growing opposition to them from right-wing governments in Europe. We need to defeat that pushback to make sure that legislation is going to be able to survive, he said.

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Even as they push for stronger government oversight of the banking industry, organizations like the Rainforest Action Network and Reclaim Finance say they plan to continue drawing connections between the financing of fossil fuel projects and the harm these projects may cause to communities  whether directly, because of the risk of oil spills and explosions, or indirectly because of accelerating climate change. Mass demonstrations and research publications like Rainforest Action Networks annual report can theoretically increase the publics appetite for state, national, and international regulation.

Its hard to be optimistic, said Quentin Aubineau, a policy analyst at the nonprofit BankTrack, which does research and advocacy around banks role in the climate crisis and human rights violations. But we have a lot of people working on the ground, doing a lot of research, and putting a lot of effort together to try to make a change. I think we will get there, even if its not the best environment to work in at the moment.

This story was originally published by Grist with the headline Big banks abandoned a voluntary climate alliance. Now, critics are calling for new laws. on Mar 3, 2025.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is under attack on social media for her response to the deadly officer-involved shooting in the heart of the city Saturday.

It seems like Mayor Wu has a big target on her back, said Tom Whalen, a political historian at Boston University, regarding the controversy surrounding Wus comments.

Police say an off-duty officer shot and killed a man who was trying to attack people with a knife inside a Chick-fil-A on Boylston Street.

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Many took to X, calling out Mayor Wu for giving condolences to the attackers family after he was killed by police.

My condolences and all of our thoughts are with the family of the individual whose life has been lost, said Mayor Wu at a press conference Saturday following the shooting. And Im also thinking about all the people whove been impacted here today in one of the busier parts of the city.

Whalen says Mayor Wu is in the hot seat as she prepares to testify in front of Congress this week in D.C.

I dont think this is normal at all and its as if they were all teed up just waiting for this kind of moment to take advantage of it politically, said Whalen about Wus comments going viral.

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The House Oversight Committee released a preview video last week, slamming the mayors who will face the committee to defend their sanctuary city policies this week. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu is featured in that video.

Whalen says the backlash Mayor Wu is receiving this weekend is only a preview of the heat shell face D.C. this week.

Its going to be a bruising affair and Mayor Wu is going to be at the top of her game politically, or have to be, in order to withstand those kinds of attacks, but it will have an impact, I think perhaps on the Boston mayoral campaign against Mr. Kraft, said Whalen.

Mayor Wu is running for re-election this year, and shell be testifying before Congress on Wednesday.

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(Bloomberg) -- A green fund backed by the United Nations is urging countries including India and China to step up after US President Donald Trump pulled $4 billion that it had pledged to the worlds biggest climate asset manager.

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Trump has upended humanitarian aid, development and climate-finance sectors by halting funding. The US leader has also exited the Paris Agreement climate treaty and the World Health Organization.

It leaves the agenda in a very difficult situation, Mafalda Duarte, the head of the Green Climate Fund, said in a Feb. 28 interview in Cape Town. It leaves us with the need for others to take leadership positions.

China and India, as the worlds biggest and third-largest greenhouse-gas emitters and major economies, could step up their involvement as should other countries she said, calling for a coalition of the ambitious.

Hopefully, well see those countries taking a more prominent role, she said.

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The US is the worlds second-biggest emitter and historically the largest source of carbon stored in the atmosphere.

The Trump administrations disdain for climate finance and renewable energy threatens to set back the global drive to slow planetary warming at a time when its already behind schedule.

The US plays a really pivotal role be it in climate, be it in other agendas because its the worlds largest economy. It has convening, it has influencing power, Duarte said on the sidelines of a global meeting of development finance institutions. They play a really important role in terms of leading and driving others to act in a certain way.

Obama, Biden

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The withdrawal of the funding is the portion of the $6 billion pledged by the administrations of Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden thats yet to be paid.

The move is the first time funding has been pulled for the Incheon, South Korea-based institution, which the United Nations formed in 2010. It has $17 billion in investments with a further $3 billion planned this year. European countries collectively have provided the bulk of money, she said.

Its unclear what impact the funding withdrawal will have on the plans by the GCF, which invests in a range of sectors including climate resilient infrastructure and water-reuse programs. This years planned deployment of $3 billion will be a record and by 2030 the fund aims to have invested $50 billion, Duarte said.

Hopefully its short term, she said of the US exit, adding that the country will also be hit by climate change.

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We are all in the same boat, she said, adding that investments in climate projects around the world could curb migration as it would limit the impact of adverse weather.

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(Updates with comment from Duarte in fifth paragraph.)

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A bill that seeks to prohibit antisemitism in Arkansas public schools has been introduced into the Arkansas legislature.

Senate Bill 352 was proposed on March 3 by Sen. Matt Stone (R-Camden) and Rep. Howard M. Beaty Jr. (R-Crossett). It was co-sponsored by Sen. Ben Gilmore (R-Crossett).

Antisemitism is defined as a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities, according to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance.

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In the legislative text, it states that the act would prohibit antisemitism in both public elementary and secondary schools, as well as in state-supported institutions of higher education, after the General Assembly found that a historic rise in antisemitic violence, harassment, and discrimination has occurred targeting Jewish students.

Baby Olivia Act hits another bump in Arkansas Senate Committee

The Federal Bureau of Investigations is cited in the act, stating that In April 2024, the Director of the [FBI] found that the number of [FBI] investigations into antisemitic hate crimes tripled in the months after October 7, 2023.

The act also cites a Gallup poll, which claims that 81% of Americans now see antisemitic as either a very serious or somewhat serious problem, up from 57% two decades ago.

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If passed, the act would impose requirements on schools to treat antisemitic harassment or discrimination in the same manner as other forms of discrimination.

The full bill can be found below.

Senate Bill 352Download

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Georgia lawmakers want to ban liquor stores, and those affiliated with liquor stores, from selling consumable hemp products.

Senate Bill 229 was proposed in February and is expected before a committee again on Tuesday.

According to the proposed legislation, if passed it would amend the Georgia Hemp Farming Act.

In terms of what changes the bill makes, SB 229 would prevent wholesale dealers of alcoholic beverages from receiving sale licenses for consumable hemp. Anyone who is affiliated with a wholesale dealer of alcoholic beverages would also be prevented from getting a license.

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Georgia law says a wholesale alcoholic beverage dealer is any seller who sells beverages to other wholesale dealers, to retail dealers or to retail consumers. This includes liquor stores as well as those who manufacture or distribute alcoholic beverages, like distilleries, breweries or vineyards, among others.

So which products would this affect as far as hemp?

In Georgia, consumable hemp products are any hemp product meant to be eaten, absorbed or inhaled by people or animals.

This means that for a liquor store or hemp seller to sell their goods, they could not sell the other products, or even be affiliated with someone who is directly or indirectly controlled by a business that either sells alcohol or hemp products.

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If you sell CBD or THC or Delta-9 products in Georgia, you would be unable to also sell alcohol, or work for someone who sells alcohol, with the opposite relationship also true.

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A man walks down a grocery story aisle. (Photo by Kevin Hardy/Stateline)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A legislative panel on Monday passed a bill that would bar synthetic dyes and over a dozen other ingredients from food, despite concerns it could drive up prices and amounts to government overreach.

Senate Bill 4, by Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, would ban 21 ingredients from food. The measure includes aspartame, an artificial sweetener, and sodium nitrate, a preservative. It requires a warning label disclosing all chemical food additives.

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Manufacturers who fail to comply with the ban, which takes effect Jan. 15, 2027, would face administrative penalties, with the funds going to school food programs.

It also applies to ingestable medications beginning Jan. 18, 2028.

Sen. David Bullard questioned if the measure creates more government regulation for private businesses.

Thompson said the Food and Drug Administration let companies self determine if the ingredients are generally safe.

My argument here is that it is not over regulation, Thompson said. This is just the beginning of food safety and regulating unsafe chemicals in our products.

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Businesses will have almost two years to reformulate if needed, she said.

This is our first swing at this and it is a big one, she said.

West Virginia approved a statewide ban Friday, and California has done it for school lunches, Thompson said.

Legislation to implement additive bans has been filed in Missouri, Illinois Pennsylvania, New York, Iowa, Maryland, Oregon, South Dakota and Rhode Island, she said.

So this is absolutely a nationwide movement, she said, adding that if states ban together the FDA will be forced to take action.

This is the right thing to do, not only for our kids but for all of Oklahoma, Thompson said.

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She said Oklahomas proposed list of banned ingredients is the most robust in the country.

She expects the measure to have far reaching effects, but believes the states poor health outcomes will improve.

Sen. Casey Murdock, R-Felt, asked if lawmakers were telling Oklahomans what they can and cannot buy.

The state was not banning food, but is not going to allow poisonous chemicals in foods, Thompson said.

Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, said she would support the measure Monday but had concerns that the cost would be passed on to consumers and could increase food insecurity.

Title was stricken on the bill, a procedural move to slow it down in the legislative process.

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It passed by a vote of 10-1 and heads to the Senate floor for possible consideration. Murdock, chairman of the Senate Agriculture and Wildlife Committee, voted against the bill.

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BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- China will take all necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate interests, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday, as Washington prepares to impose an additional 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods starting Tuesday.

Lin made the remarks at a regular press briefing when asked about a media report stating that China is formulating countermeasures against the proposed U.S. tariff, with U.S. agricultural and food products likely to be targeted.

China firmly opposes the U.S. threat to impose additional tariffs on Chinese products under the pretext of the fentanyl issue, Lin said.

The latest tariff threat from the United States follows a similar 10 percent tariff hike on Chinese goods in February. In response, China imposed additional tariffs on a range of U.S. goods, including imported coal, liquefied natural gas, crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement automobiles and pickup trucks, starting from Feb. 10. 
Mar. 2A committee endorsed legislation (HB 159) that would have New Hampshire join nearly all other states in sharing mental health information about potential gun buyers with the National Instant Criminal Background System (NCIS).

But the state's most significant gun owner advocacy groups strongly oppose the measure, branding it an unconstitutional violation of the Second Amendment.

House Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee Chairman Terry Roy, R-Deerfield, said the measure has been carefully crafted to respect gun owner rights while protecting the public.

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"This is a balanced approach," Roy said.

What sparked the legislation was the killing of Security Officer Bradley Haas in November, 2023, by a former patient of New Hampshire Hospital who was able to obtain a gun, despite being deemed a danger by a judge.

John Madore, who killed Haas, a retired Franklin police chief, had a 9mm pistol and assault weapon taken away during an arrest in Strafford in 2016. He was involuntarily committed to the state's mental hospital and a judge deemed him a danger to himself or others.

Attorney General John Formella's office reported that Madore got the handgun he used in the crime from a Barrington firearms outlet by lying about his mental health record.

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The bill is called the "Chief Bradley Haas Mental Health Firearms Reporting Act."

The panel endorsed the measure, 10-6 with Roy and two other Republicans joining all Democrats in support of it.

Former Rep. J.R. Hoell, secretary of the New Hampshire Firearms Coalition, said once someone's name is put on the NICS system, it's virtually impossible for them to get off it.

"It's a one-way door, there is no way to get off the list," Hoell said.

"The fundamental flaw in this bill is that these individuals with serious mental health problems need our help, they don't need to have their constitutional rights taken away in perpetuity."

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Roy said he amended the bill to remove all references to the judge being able to confiscate someone's weapons.

"The entire confiscation piece has been taken out, now the authorities will advise someone who has been so restricted that they have to dispose of their firearms if they have any," Roy said.

The National Rifle Association requested the change, Roy said.

Unlike other gun right groups, the NRA is now neutral on the bill.

In an alert to supporters, Kimberly Morin of the Women's Defense League, said Roy has been misrepresenting the measure.

"He (Roy) also claimed the mandatory confiscation part was taken out of the bill but that's simply untrue. It will be left up to the discretion of the judge," Morin said.

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"As with all bad bills, the amendment actually makes it even worse. In the amendment, if you are committed for anything, not just wanting to harm yourself or others, you can have your guns confiscated."

State Rep. Matt Sabourin dit Choiniere, R-Seabrook, said he's received more email correspondence against this bill than any other this year.

"I don't know if the public is completely on our side," Sabourin dit Choiniere said.

Roy said some opponents aren't telling the truth about the bill.

"They claim this is a red flag bill and denies due process. The bill does neither," Roy said.

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Unlike a red flag law, this bill requires that someone be brought to court to respond to any claim the person is a danger to himself or others.

State Rep. David Meuse, D-Portsmouth, credited Roy with trying to improve the bill's chances of becoming law.

"I'm reasonably optimistic that we can finally get this done," Meuse said during a recent interview.

Last May, the Republican-led State Senate voted, 14-9, to kill a similar version of the bill.

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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE)  Last fall, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham created a temporary office aimed at addressing housing problems in the state, but some lawmakers think there needs to be a more permanent solution.

These big systemic problems take years to fix, said Daniel Werwath, Director of the newly created Housing Office, which falls under the governor.

For more than a decade, state officials have been searching for a way to combat New Mexicos housing crisis, and lawmakers are hoping House Bill 448 will be that solution.

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The goal is to have an entity within state government thats working to address some of the bigger systemic issues around housing, Werwath said. Whether it be construction cost, workhouse, regulatory issues.

Story continues below

If signed into law, the bill would create the Office of Housing Planning and Production. It would be responsible for reducing housing costs, increasing the number of homes, and addressing root problems that negatively impact development all across the state. The office would also support local housing and homeless programs, to expand services. The bill received a lot of support during its first committee hearing this weekend. However, some lawmakers questioned the need of the office.

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Now, were going to put another office together to study what the other officers are doing, said Representative Martin Zamora. Thats my frustration in all this. Its not that the state doesnt have the money to put into housing, but Id like to see it spent on 24s, and land and building homes.

However, Werwath says the state would benefit from having an agency like the one in the proposed bill, arguing that it would get rid of redundant programs, and gather data to better execute plans. Werwath says New Mexico is one of the few states in the country without a state housing agency.

The bill passed committee in a 6-2 vote.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A Tennessee lawmaker is already preparing to recognize the Semiquincentennial of the United States by proposing a bill to designate three months to celebrate the founding principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in the Volunteer State.

Rep. Gino Bulso (R-Brentwood) has proposed a bill to officially designate the month of June as Celebration of Life month; July as Celebration of Liberty month; and August as Celebration of the Pursuit of Happiness month in Tennessee.

LIST: Movies shot in Tennessee

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According to Bulsos bill, the idea would be to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by assigning specific months in the year to celebrate the unalienable rights of all citizens.

Bulso settled on June, July, and August for specific reasons, as well, according to the text of the bill.

June would be Celebration of Life month because the Supreme Court ruling in Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization was handed down on June 24, 2022. The Dobbs decision overturned both previous precedential decisions related to abortion: Roe v. Wade (1973) and Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992). Roe initially protected the right to an abortion prior to fetal viability in America; Casey upheld Roe two decades later.

Julys designation would tie into the principle of liberty as the Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776, per the bill.

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August, then would be designated as the month for the pursuit of happiness because the vast majority of Tennessee children return to school in August. During a House committee meeting on Monday, March 3, Bulso said the pursuit of happiness begins when children start school.

If passed, the bill would take effect immediately upon receiving Gov. Bill Lees signature, according to the bill.

The bill moved forward to the House Judiciary Committee with a positive recommendation of 7-2-1, with Democratic Reps. Aftyn Behn and Vincent Dixie voting nay and Rep. Justin Jones present not voting. Representatives voting aye were Bulso, Rep. Monty Fritts (R-Kingston), Jody Barrett (R-Dickson), Rush Bricken (R-Tullahoma), Tom Leatherwood (R-Arlington) Pat Marsh (R-Shelbyville) and Todd Warner (R-Chapel Hill).

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A bill in the Georgia Senate meant to ensure equitable pay for the states disabled workers passed in a near-unanimous sweep, with only three lawmakers voting against it.

The Dignity and Pay Act was filed to phase out, and eventually stop, allowing businesses to pay disabled workers below minimum wage.

These subminimum wage jobs, as theyre called, are used by just eight companies in the state to pay 245 workers less than $7.25 per hour, according to data from the U.S. Department of Labor.

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USDOL says that the number of businesses using the 14(c) waivers to pay less than minimum wage to some workers has declined over recent years.

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The U.S. Government Accountability Office reported the number dropped roughly 90% from 2001 to 2024, though that did not include the exact number based on pending certificates for the waiver.

According to the text of Senate Bill 55, it would prohibit discriminatory activities as far as wages paid to disabled individuals, ensuring they receive the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, if passed.

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Additionally, businesses using 14(c) waivers before July 1 of this year would be able to continue using its wage limits, though it would be on a deadline.

According to the bill, companies:

May pay individuals with disabilities employed by such employer less than the minimum wage required to be paid by employers to employees under federal law; provided, however, that:

During the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027, such employer shall pay individuals with disabilities at least half of the minimum wage required to be paid by employers to employees under federal law; and

On and after July 1, 2027, such employer shall no longer utilize such certificate to pay individuals with disabilities less than the minimum wage required to be paid by employers to employees under federal law.

It essentially phases out subminimum wages by the first of July 2027, if passed in both the Georgia Senate and Georgia House of Representatives, and then approved by Gov. Brian Kemp.

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Now that its passed the Georgia Senate, with the exceptions of approval by state Sens. Timothy Bearden, Matt Brass and Colton Moore, it heads to the House for approval and/or modification.

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(HONOLULU) KHON2  A measure to increase the legal amount of cannabis a person can possess was struck down during a senate floor vote on Friday, Feb. 28. The legislature received public testimony from state agencies and advocacy groups.

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I dont see it as being a solution to the issues that were facing here, stated Senator Samantha DeCorte. Were trying to get drugs out of our community, not welcome them in here.

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Others in the community who have worked with criminalized individuals said current laws are outdated and the penalties unfair, especially for youth who end up with a criminal record.

House Finance Committee halts progression of cannabis legalization bill

They call it a gateway drug, but its also a gateway to jail and a gateway to criminal prosecution and a criminal record, said David Pullman, Public Defender, Those prison cells are limited. Thats a cell where someone who is committing violent crime could be and instead were holding someone who got caught with THC in their urine.

If passed, the SB319 would have allowed an individual to possess up to 15 grams, three times the current legal limit.

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Fifteen grams is about a pack and a half of joints versus seven or less for three grams, stated Senator Donovan Dela Cruz. It seemed contradictory to some extent, if were trying to work on a legalization bill, but at the same time, extending this and decriminalizing part of it.

According to Pullman, 15 grams is a ridiculously small amount.

The common amount that people buy is called an eighth. 3.5 grams. So the minute someone buys the most common amount of cannabis, theyre already over the decriminalization limit. Theyre already committing a crime, Pullman added.

Officials stated regulations and guidelines will have to be more thought out when it comes to cannabis.

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Making sure that it can be at some point consistent with federal law, making sure that we address some peoples concerns in the legislature who are anti smoking, but I think every year we get a little bit closer to trying to reconcile and mitigate some of these issues, said Senator Dela Cruz.

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Iowa lawmakers are considering legislation to require, and fund, free feminine hygiene products in school restrooms. (Photo by Holly Hildreth/Getty Images)

A House Education subcommittee unanimously advanced a bill Monday to require school districts provide free feminine hygiene products, like tampons and menstrual pads, in school restrooms.

The bill, House File 543, would provide state funding beginning July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028 for the mandate that these sanitary products be available in at least half of restrooms for students in grades 6 through 12.

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Maanya Pandey, a student at the University of Iowa, said she founded the nonprofit Love for Red focused on this subject four years ago because of the struggles she saw caused by the lack of easy access for menstrual products for the people around her.

Almost every menstruating student can relate to this situation: getting your period unexpectedly and realizing you dont have a menstrual product in your bag, Pandey said. Your options are begging people around you for a spare product, the coin-operated dispensers  who carries around change anymore  missing more class time than you already have to visit the nurse, or use whats available, stuffing toilet paper into your underwear, hoping you dont bleed through your pants during the day.

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Many students, especially those who do not have the money to purchase period products themselves, leave school in these situations, she said. When this happens multiple days every month, Pandey said youre looking at chronic absenteeism, which is linked to higher suspension rates and lower graduation rates.

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Paula Blake, a retired teacher from Johnston, said she strongly supported the bill because it would help students stay in class and would take the burden off of teachers supplying these products using their personal funds.

You may wonder whats been done in the past, and its as you said  you jam a bunch of toilet paper down your pants and keep your fingers crossed, Blake said. You run to your locker, you try to get something, and youre late for class and youve been tardy. Also, teachers have often supplied whats needed with their own money. Every year for 39 years, I spent between $500 to $1,000 of my own money on various educational and personal supplies for my students.

Advocates were almost unanimously in support of the measure. Margaret Buckton, representing the Rural School Advocates of Iowa and Urban Education Network of Iowa said the organizations she represented were registered as undecided on the legislation because of concerns about future funding past the June 2028 cutoff.

Its only because about the time when the appropriation runs out, is the time when the income tax cuts are going to hit your hurt your budget, and we will be making tough decisions on what things schools can provide for students, Buckton said. So well be back at that time, hoping you continue to fund it.

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Rep. Heather Matson, D-Ankeny, said I dont know that Ive been happier to be on a subcommittee this year. She said she strongly supported the bills advancement and noted that House Democrats have also introduced legislation on this subject.

Matson highlighted the efforts of Love for Red and students Brianna Taylor and Erika Rosenberg of Sibley-Ocheyedan High School, who alongside school counselor Thresa Ruggles advocated at the Statehouse for free feminine hygiene products in womens restrooms at schools. A pilot program headed by Ruggles found a significant reduction in female student absences  counting 100 fewer female student absences over a time period after the school began providing free products to students.

I would say that high school me would also have been incredibly grateful for this, Matson said. Every woman and girl knows what this is like, and I am incredibly grateful that we are having this conversation.

Rep. Dan Gehlbach, R-Urbandale, said though he is not directly affected by this, obviously, he has two teenage daughters and supported the bill moving forward. He thanked Pandey and other young advocates for their efforts to highlight the issue.

The legislation advanced with all three lawmakers supporting the measure, and will go before the House Education Committee for further consideration.

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Bills to restrict unions have failed to gain support at the 2025 Montana Legislature. (Photo by Brandon Bell | Getty Images)

In a sea of work clothes and some hard hats, union member Richard Hackett noticed something about the attire of the people, just two, who testified in favor of a bill that purported to defend the rights of workers.

The people who supported it, Hackett said, were wearing suits.

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I dont see anybody in blue jeans, Hackett said at the committee hearing. I dont see anybody in work boots or hard hats. That should tell you something about who actually supports this bill.

The right to work bill, Senate Bill 376, aimed to protect workers from having to join a union, a right opponents said already exists, and it earned strong opposition in committee last week.

At one point, the chairperson was told about 150 people were waiting in the hall to oppose it, and Saturday, members of the Senate Business, Labor and Economic Affairs committee voted unanimously to table the bill after it failed to pass on a 7-5 vote.

Later the same day, an attempt to blast the bill onto the floor failed too, 18-32.

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The previous week on the Senate floor, a separate bill also opposed by unions met a similar fate. Senate Bill 94 would have prohibited union members who are public employees from doing organized labor-related work during the work day.

Montana has a deep history with labor unions, with miners in Butte and the Industrial Workers of the World, and both pieces of legislation went down with mentions of the past from opponents  and criticism from proponents that the power of unions is costing taxpayers and the economy.

As Eric Hoffer said sometime ago, every good cause becomes a movement, and then grows into a business, and degenerates into a racket, said Sen. John Fuller, R-Kalispell, paraphrasing the late philosopher and conservative social critic who wrote about mass movements. Do not let the taxpayers of Montana have to pay for this racket.

Fuller was speaking in defense of his own bill, which he said would prevent public employees from union proselytizing on the taxpayer dime.

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Fuller said he isnt against unions and used to be a member himself, but he believes public employees should take unpaid leave to have those conversations.

The bill also would have struck a requirement that trustees close schools annually for professional development for teachers.

Senators who opposed the idea pointed to Montanas history and to pragmatic considerations, like the way daytime conversations take place and existing contracts.

Sen. Jacinda Morigeau, D-Arlee, said she sits on the committee where the bill was heard, and she learned some of the conversations about union activities amount to a one-minute phone call.

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So how is that person supposed to clock in and out for that? Morigeau said.

Morigeau and others also defended the ability of union members to attend trainings on the clock, which Fuller had said last fall included LGBTQ+ issues; diversity, equity and inclusion; and critical race theory, among other topics he said were not professional development.

In education, those topics have become controversial, but Morigeau said just seven people attended the LGBTQ+ workshop, and six attended one on rethinking diversity.

She said from a teacher training agenda last fall with 19 pages of options, the top issues that drew more than 100 educators each included childhood trauma in the classroom, strategies for dynamic classroom management, mental health and teenagers, suicide prevention, creating a stellar yearbook program, and engaging the next generation of scientists and engineers.

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Our teachers  are getting great professional development, Morigeau said.

Sen. Derek Harvey, D-Butte, said safety is a theme in professional trainings. He also said if a lawsuit is filed against a school because of a statement by a teacher on an LGBTQ+ topic, it will be the union, not the school, defending the teacher.

Harvey, though, also said people have to know their history. More than 100 years ago, he said, martial law was declared in his community because of horrific work conditions for union miners.

They were literally dying at the job site, Harvey said.

On Flag Day in 1917, he said, 168 miners were trapped and died underground after an accidental fire took off. It was the result of inadequate safety, and Harvey said over time, unions have fought for improvements.

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We need to carry on what was established for us 100 years ago, Harvey said. So yes, we dont have to fight to make sure that theres outward swinging doors on buildings anymore  because unions got that. We dont have to fight for the eight-hour workday  because unions got that.

But what we do have to continue to fight for is to ensure that the safeguards and protections and wages and benefits remain in place.

The bill failed to pass when 11 Republicans joined all 18 Democrats to oppose it.

Saturday, SB 376, which addressed both public and private sector bargaining, failed to pass as well. The bill would have instated criminal penalties for workers who go on strike or picket, and it would have allowed civil penalties, among other provisions.

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In response to a question about how the U.S. Supreme Courts Janus decision related to the bill, Amanda Frickle, with the AFL-CIO, said that opinion applies only to public sector employees, and it has limitations. She said the bill goes beyond Janus.

In Montana, she said, public sector employees dont have to join unions and pay dues  or refrain from joining and pay equivalent fees  but Frickle said the bill would apply to private sector employees and mutual agreements between workers and a business.

A business and union may enter into a private agreement that says workers may choose to join the union or pay an agency fee for representation.

Frickle said the bill would interfere in that private negotiation. She said it would mean nonunion workers wont have to pay those fees, which means a private sector union has to provide a service for free.

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Sen. Sara Novak, D-Anaconda, a union member who spoke against both bills, said she reviewed some of the statistics proponents of the right to work bill had provided against the states own Department of Labor and Industry data, and they didnt match up.

Novak said it is disingenuous to accuse unions of causing massive layoffs.

Last fall, Sibanye-Stillwater mining company announced plans to lay off 700 workers, citing pressure from imports, and Novak said the reality is the state, the corporation and the union have helped displaced workers.

Sen. Mark Noland, R-Bigfork, sponsored SB 376, and he grew emotional when he talked about the experience of his late father, a union member. Noland said his father was forced to picket and pay dues, and he hated every minute of that part of it.

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When he retired, he said, Im free. Son, really think about if youre going to go to work for a union, Noland said.

He admitted his bill might need to be rephrased after people said workers arent forced to pay dues, but he said union leaders know who supports their cause, and workers lose advancement if they dont join.

Noland also said people are afraid of change, but he wanted Montana to become the 28th state to have right to work legislation.

The other 27 states believe in freedom of choice, Noland said.

A long line of workers and union leaders testified against his bill, telling legislators they chose union membership, and a couple of large employers opposed it as well. NorthWestern Energy, Sibanye-Stillwater, Missoula County, and the Montana Farmers Union were among the opponents.

Opposition came from plumbers and pipefitters, construction workers, a former missile site worker, a public defender, sheet metal workers, nurses, electricians, carpenters, local government employees, and others.

Some workers said wages in Montana were better than in nearby Idaho, a right to work state, some argued safety protocols and trainings would be out the window if the bill took effect, but workplace fatalities would go up, and at least one said he was able to start thinking about starting a family because of the insurance.

Alan Olson, government affairs director with NorthWestern Energy, said the utility is proud of its union workers. He also said union dues help pay for apprenticeships, and those trainings are valuable.

Were very happy with the apprenticeship programs that they run to help keep us staffed up, Olson said.

The bill drew just two supporters, Randy Pope, with Montana Citizens for Right to Work, and John Kalb, with the National Right to Work Committee, which describes itself as opposing the evils of compulsory unionism.

Pope said when unions play hardball with wages, it simply means some workers will get laid off.

The fact is, good unions dont need forced dues, and bad unions dont deserve them, Pope said.

Frickle, with the AFL-CIO, representing 50,000 Montana workers, said workers in Montana already have the right to not join a union, and the bill illegally inserts the government into private contract negotiations.

Unions, she said, have been partners in Montanas economy for 150 years.

Montana would simply not be the state we are today if it were not for the working people who stood together and fought for their chance for a simple fair share of what they helped to build, Fickle said.
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (WMBD)  With less than a month until the April 1 consolidated election, candidates for Bloomington mayor explained their positions in front of a student panel.

The candidates took questions at Illinois Wesleyan University for an hour on Sunday, giving their stances on controversial topics.

Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe, Cody Hendricks, and Dan Brady all said their top three goals are to focus on public safety, the affordable housing crisis and infrastructure needs like water and sewage.

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They all said they have a plan for tackling these important issues for Bloomington residents.

I think its extremely important. We talk about our infrastructure needs when we talk about public safety and when we talk about economic development. For the city of Bloomington, said Brady.

But Bloomingtons current Mayor thinks hes still be the best fit to remain in office.

While we have accomplished a lot. There is still a little bit more to accomplish, particularly when I think about housing. Housing is very important, said Mayor Mwilambwe.

However, Hendricks said Bloomington needs a fresh change of pace in the form of new leadership.

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I think we do need some new, fresh leadership in the mayors office to tackle some of these issues that have been lingering on with housing, with economic development, with infrastructure, said Hendricks.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com.
(Photo courtesy of the Iowa Board of Nursing)

The Iowa Board of Nursing has issued an emergency order suspending the license of a Davenport nurse previously charged with drug offenses.

In 2022, Amanda Hake of Davenport pleaded guilty to two criminal counts of possession of a controlled substance after police found her in possession of oxycodone without a valid prescription. Sixteen months later, in January 2024, the Iowa Board of Nursing filed disciplinary charges against her and subsequently placed Hakes license on probation for 12 months.

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As part of her probation, she was required to submit to chemical screening and attend recovery support group meetings if recommended.

Hakes probation was scheduled to conclude on May 20, 2025. However, the board now alleges that on Sept. 17, 2024, the board received notice from the chemical-screening service that Hakes account  the board does not explain that term or elaborate  had been suspended.

Hake then missed chemical testing on Sept. 27, Oct. 18, Oct. 31, and Nov. 19, 2024, the board alleges. In addition, Hake allegedly missed some form of check-ins on two occasions in September 2024.

According to the board, Hake was pulled over on Aug. 4, 2024 and had alcohol in the center console of her vehicle and was cited for an open-container violation. Court records indicate Hake was subsequently convicted and fined $260.

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On Oct. 23, 2024, the board alleges, Hake was charged with first-degree theft. Police records indicate that charge stems from Hake being pulled over while driving a rental car that the rental company reported as stolen. At the time, Hake was working for Beacon Health Management, according to court records.

Hake has pleaded innocent to the theft charge and the case is still pending. Hake has failed to respond to communications from Board of Nursing investigators, the board alleges.

Recently, the board concluded that Hake engaged in unethical conduct or practices harmful or detrimental to the public, and that she posed an immediate danger to the public health, safety and welfare.

As a result, the board issued an emergency order suspending her practice immediately and indefinitely.
WEST PALM BEACH  After federal agents clamped down on one operation to defraud Medicare, prosecutors say Boca Raton brothers Justin and Trevor Blair formed another.

They launched PIC Group, a call center dedicated to persuading Medicare beneficiaries and their doctors to order unnecessary genetic tests. PIC Group then sold the doctors orders to a laboratory in Texas, which billed Medicare $3.5 million and paid PIC Group more than $2.5 million in kickbacks and bribes.

The Blair brothers were two of nearly 200 defendants charged last year for defrauding Medicare  the federal insurance program for older and disabled patients  out of more than $2.75 billion. They pleaded guilty in November to conspiring to defraud the U.S. and receiving kickbacks in connection with a federal health care program, cementing a deal with prosecutors to have four additional charges against them dismissed.

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Justin, 30, and Trevor Blair, 35, returned to court Wednesday in hopes of persuading U.S. District Judge Donald Middlebrooks to spare them from prison entirely. They pointed to the "svengali-like" influence of their accused co-conspirators and the brothers' desire to get their lives "on the right track."

From the courts: After mother's drug conviction, Lantana child asks judge: 'Please let my momy come home'

Boca brothers convicted of health care fraud blame their co-conspirators

Defense attorney Christopher Haddad, who represented Justin Blair alongside attorney Christopher Grillo, said Justin was seduced into the committing scheme by the assurances of his longtime friend Daniel M. Carver, a Coral Springs man also charged for health care fraud.

"Mr. Blair thought that an opportunity existed to enter a lucrative field," Haddad wrote in a court filing. "However, he quickly realized that things were not as they appeared. Yet, he continued to pursue the path which now has him before this court."

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Haddad submitted 15 pages of letters written in support of Justin to combat the image of the fraudster portrayed in investigators' reports. His relatives and friends described him as a church-going, family man and a force for good in the life of his newborn daughter.

Grillo, who also represented Trevor Blair, argued that a sentence of home confinement would let the brothers work to pay back the $3.3 million in restitution they owe "instead of being a burden on our society."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Owen Dunn and the judge disagreed.

He sentenced Trevor Blair to two years and nine months in federal prison and Justin Blair to four years and three months. Middlebrooks ordered them to self-surrender on May 25.

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Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Boca Raton brothers who stole millions from Medicare seek mercy
A truck with humanitarian aid enters Gaza from the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing, on Feb. 24, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

GAZA, March 2 (Xinhua) -- Israel's decision to block humanitarian aid to Gaza since early Sunday has sparked fierce condemnation from Palestinian factions, regional countries, and international organizations.

At the start of a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the decision "to prevent any entry of goods and supplies into Gaza" was made to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal, which he said was put forth by U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff.

He warned that Hamas would face "additional consequences" if it did not agree to the proposal.

In response, Hamas condemned the decision, calling it in a statement a "blatant attempt to renege on the agreement and evade negotiations for its second phase." The group said blocking aid to Gaza's 2 million residents was "cheap blackmail and a war crime" and urged mediators and the international community to press Israel to reverse the decision.

Mahmoud Meedawi, a senior Hamas official, said in a press statement that the group refused to extend the first phase of the agreement with Israel, stressing the need to implement all its phases as originally signed.

Palestinian people have their iftar meal among destroyed houses on the first day of Ramadan in the northern Gaza Strip town of Jabalia, March 1, 2025. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)

The Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine called the decision "a flagrant violation of the ceasefire" and an indication that Israel seeks to evade the second phase of the agreement.

The Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine also condemned the decision, calling it an escalation of Israel's "starvation warfare" against Gaza's population, which will only deepen the already dire humanitarian crisis in the enclave.

Islamic Jihad called the decision "a crime against humanity" in a press statement. It accused the United States of shielding Israel as it continues to provide military aid and political cover for it.

Faisal Aranki, a member of the Palestine Liberation Organization's Executive Committee, told Xinhua that Israel's decision will worsen Gaza's already severe shortages of essential goods and medical supplies.

"The Israeli government bears full responsibility for the deteriorating humanitarian conditions due to its violations of the ceasefire agreement and its obstruction of aid deliveries," Aranki said, urging international pressure on Israel to reopen border crossings.

In a press statement, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry warned of the decision's catastrophic consequences, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

"We strongly reject the politicization of humanitarian aid and its use as a tool for extortion," it said, calling on the international community to hold Israel accountable and ensure the uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Palestinian children are seen in one of the displacement camps at the Al-Shujaiya neighborhood in Gaza City, on Feb. 25, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said Sunday that using aid as a weapon of collective punishment and starvation in Gaza is unacceptable and impermissible, affirming that this act represents a blatant and explicit violation of international humanitarian law.

At a joint press conference in Cairo with European Commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica, Abdelatty reaffirmed the importance of fully and faithfully implementing the ongoing ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel in Gaza.

Israel's decision constitutes a flagrant breach of the ceasefire agreement and a blatant violation of international law, and poses a serious threat of renewed escalation in the region, Jordan's Foreign Ministry said Sunday in a statement.

The ministry emphasized the urgent need for Israel to cease using starvation as a weapon against Palestinians and innocent civilians by imposing a blockade, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

It also called on the international community to compel Israel to abide by the ceasefire agreement, ensure the implementation of all its phases, and reopen the crossings designated for delivering humanitarian aid to all areas of Gaza.

According to a UN statement posted Sunday on social media platform X, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for "humanitarian aid to flow back into Gaza immediately and for the release of all hostages," and urged "all parties to make every effort to prevent a return to hostilities in Gaza."

A Palestinian child walks in one of the displacement camps at the Al-Shujaiya neighborhood in Gaza City, on Feb. 25, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Tom Fletcher, UN under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs and emergency relief coordinator, called Israel's decision "alarming" on X.

"International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid. We can't roll back the progress of the past 42 days. We need to get aid in and the hostages out. The ceasefire must hold," he wrote.

The ceasefire has "saved countless lives and provided a glimmer of hope amid immense suffering" and "is essential to prevent the region from plunging back into despair," Mirjana Spoljaric, president of the International Committee of the Red Cross, said Sunday in a statement. 
Attorney General Pam Bondi was duped into thinking she had all the files related to investigations into disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, she told Fox News host Mark Levin over the weekend while defending Thursdays widely mocked document dump.

I kept saying, there has to be more. There has to be more, Bondi said Saturday. I was assured thats it.

Epstein, who hobnobbed with celebrities, royalty and other powerful people, died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.

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Bondi said she found out from a whistleblower after releasing 100 pages of flight logs and Epsteins contact lists that the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York is sitting on thousands of pages of documents that had not been handed over to her. She is now seeking additional information through the FBI.

Bondi vowed that Americans will eventually see the full Epstein files.

We will get everything, she told Levin. We will have it in our possession. We will redact it, of course, to protect grand jury information and confidential witnesses, but American people have a right to know.

Before last weeks highly anticipated document release, Bondi had promoted the revelations in several interviews without details but while describing Epsteins actions as pretty sick.

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The Trump administration faced immediate backlash over the nothingburger Epstein release after the White House hosted a group of MAGA-aligned influencers and distributed phase one of the documents in white binders.

Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.), who chairs a bipartisan House panel reviewing classified documents in high-profile cases for release including the Epstein files, voiced her frustration on social media over Bondis Thursday document dump.

THIS IS NOT WHAT WE OR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ASKED FOR and a complete disappointment, Luna posted on the social platform X. GET US THE INFORMATION WE ASKED FOR!

Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) said the confusion created a bad day for the White House.

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It was not a good day for the administration. If you look at the traffic online over the Epstein release, I have never seen the left and the right come together in a moment on the debacle of what the Epstein files contained, Moskowitz said Thursday on CNNs News Night.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
BOSSIER PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  The Cares Krewe was on the final leg of its educational tour to help Bossier Parish Schools prepare for the i3 Art Expo.

Bossier Parish students school the Cares Krewe

Part of the expo is an iCANstruction competition in which the Bossier Parish School Youth Engineers are building Louisiana-themed sculptures from canned food items to be judged and displayed at this years i3 Art Expo.

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The Cares Krewe started our journey at Elm Grove Middle School, home of the Eagles.

We love the i3 Art Expo as a whole because its an opportunity for our students to demonstrate their abilities in all kinds of things, the arts, and performing arts, and in this case, STEM, said an Elm Grove Middle School representative.

The young engineers shared that they were building Louie, the Louisiana alligator.

I feel like its very important to have things like this for students. Its just good for them to have something to do, said an Elm Grove Middle School student.

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Im going to say the learning opportunities you can get from the program, said an Elm Grove Middle School student.

People that may need them or to have fun, said an Elm Grove Middle School student.

Bossier Parish students get surprises to help i3 Art Expo competition

Our next stop on the STEM tour was Sun City Elementary School.

Many green bean cans were delivered to Sun City to help them build their Mardi Gras alligator.

Our friend August was so excited and hungry about the canned goods and the competition that she was ready to tear into the green beans.

We decided to let the young engineers go to lunch so they wouldnt eat their sculpture canned goods supplies.

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The Cares Krewe looks for deserving recipients each week! You can nominate someone to receive a surprise today. Just click here to submit your nomination or to give us an idea of an organization deserving of a surprise.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox are under attack on social media for their response to the deadly officer-involved shooting in the heart of the city on Saturday.

Both Wu and Cox offered condolences to the family of a knife-wielding man who was shot dead by an off-duty officer after he allegedly tried to attack customers inside a Chick-fil-A on Boylston Street on Saturday night.

My condolences and all of our thoughts are with the family of the individual whose life has been lost, Wu said at a press conference following the shooting. Im also thinking about all the people whove been impacted here today in one of the busier parts of the city.

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Many took to X, calling out Wu for giving condolences to the attackers family after he was killed by police.

South Carolina Republican Rep. Nancy Mace wrote on X, Condolences from the mayor of Boston -- wait for it -- to a knife-wielding man trying to kill people! Thankfully this guy was stopped in his tracks by a brave law enforcement officer.

Tom Whalen, a political historian at Boston University, said Wu is on the hot seat as she prepares to testify in front of Congress this week in Washington, D.C.

I dont think this is normal at all and its as if they were all teed up just waiting for this kind of moment to take advantage of it politically, Whalen said when asked about Wus viral comments.

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The House Oversight Committee released a preview video last week, slamming mayors of some major cities who will face the committee to defend their sanctuary city policies this week. Wu is featured in that video.

The backlash Wu received over the weekend is only a preview of the heat shell face in D.C., according to Whalen.

Its going to be a bruising affair and Mayor Wu is going to be at the top of her game politically, or have to be, in order to withstand those kinds of attacks, but it will have an impact, I think perhaps on the Boston mayoral campaign against Mr. Kraft, Whalen explained.

Cox offered a similar sentiment to Wu after the shooting, telling reporters, We dont look for loss of life, so our condolences go out to the individual who was killed tonight.

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This is unbelievable. Watch Boston officials give condolences to a knife-wielding attacker, another X user wrote.

The city leaders made the comments after the armed suspect, identified as 32-year-old Lemark Jaramillo, chased two people into the popular eatery around 5:30 p.m.

An off-duty officer who happened to be in the restaurant tried to de-escalate the situation, but the suspect allegedly refused to comply, prompting the officer to fatally shoot the man, according to authorities.

Surveillance video obtained by Boston 25 News showed the terrifying moments after the shooting as customers fled into the street.

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Wu and Cox did also commend the off-duty officer, who has been placed on leave while an investigation is conducted.

Were proud of police officers who activate themselves, whether its on duty or off duty, to try and save lives, Cox said.

The Suffolk District Attorneys Office is leading the investigation into the incident.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Boston police have identified the knife-wielding man who was shot and killed by an off-duty officer inside a Chick-fil-A restaurant in downtown Boston on Saturday.

Its really just shocking: Locals react to off-duty officer shooting that killed a man

Lemark Jaramillo, 32, with a last known address in the citys Roslindale section, was shot dead after he allegedly tried to attack customers inside the Boylston Street eatery, according to the Boston Police Department.

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Jaramillo chased two people into the Chick-fil-A around 5:30 p.m. and the officer tried to de-escalate the situation but the suspect allegedly refused to comply, prompting the officer to fatally shoot him, police said.

Surveillance video obtained by Boston 25 News showed the terrifying moments after the shooting as customers fled into the street.

A witness who was inside the restaurant told Boston 25 she heard the officer order the man to drop the knife

He was like put the knife down sir. Then boom, thats when he shot him, the witness said. It was loud. I heard gunshots before, but not that close.

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Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox are under attack on social media after they both offered condolences to Jaramillos family following the shooting.

My condolences and all of our thoughts are with the family of the individual whose life has been lost, Wu said at a press conference following the shooting. Im also thinking about all the people whove been impacted here today in one of the busier parts of the city.

Cox added, We dont look for loss of life, so our condolences go out to the individual who was killed tonight.

The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute, a nonprofit antiviolence organization in Boston, issued a statement asking for compassion for the situation and all involved.

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Our work over the last three decades to support families who have lost loved ones to violence has taught us this: Every loss of life, no matter the circumstances, leaves behind grieving loved ones who did not make the decisions that led to the tragedy, but who are left to pick up the pieces amid a hole in their hearts that can never be filled.

Wu and Cox did also commend the off-duty officer, who has been placed on leave while an investigation is conducted.

The Suffolk District Attorneys Office is leading the investigation into the incident.

The restaurant remained closed Monday.

RELATED:

Big target on her back: Mayor Wu faces criticism for response to deadly officer-involved shooting

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A bouncer fatally shot when witnesses said a disgruntled patron opened fire into a Manhattan bar was moonlighting to earn extra money for his family, devastated relatives told the Daily News

Anton Albert, 39, was working inside Tom & Jerrys on Elizabeth St. near E. Houston St. in NoHo at about 3:20 a.m. Saturday when the gunman, who was outside on the street, started shooting into the bar, according to police.

Witnesses previously told The News the belligerent shooter had just been tossed from the bar.

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Albert was struck twice in the chest and once in the stomach by the flying bullets. He was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, but he could not be saved.

By the time [Alberts mother] got the call and went to the hospital, my nephew already had passed, said the victims aunt, Dominique Albert. It hadnt hit her yet.

Albert, who cops said lived in the Arden Heights neighborhood of Staten Island, had last visited his mothers Brooklyn home on Friday, where the tight-knit family would often spend Sunday evenings together.

She was getting ready to go out, and he told her, Ma, have a good time and Ill catch up with you later, and then that was the last that she saw her son alive, said Dominique Albert. Its a shame that you go to work and this is what happens just doing your job.

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Instead of spending Sunday together  with Albert planning to cook dinner for his mother  the family was left to mourn, struggling with the unimaginable loss.

Shes totally devastated, Dominique Albert said of the mans mother. The family, were really suffering. This is so unexpected and its so painful. Its really difficult to deal with.

Albert worked in an office during the week and as a bouncer to pull in extra money, according to his aunt.

He was doing everything positive, she said. A hardworking family man, a hardworking father, good son, good nephew, good grandson. Theres nothing bad you could say about my nephew.

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Albert leaves behind a 9-year-old daughter, with whom he had  a very close relationship, Dominique Albert said.

Shes with her mother, but shes in a lot of pain right now, said Alberts heartbroken grandmother, Pearlie Axson, 78. Its so unexpected, and she keeps asking for her dad.

The woman remembered Albert as a happy-go-lucky child with a natural talent for music, even producing a couple of his own CDs.

I just want everybody to know that he was a loving, caring son, brother, nephew, father, husband, said Dominique Albert. He was a little bit of everything. But he was someone that when you were around him, you knew you were going to laugh, have a good time.

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Alberts grandmother echoed the sentiment, remembering her grandson as a good kid.

I loved him dearly, said Axson. Hes always been a good kid. Weve always been there for each other. He and I were very close.

There were no arrests as police continued to hunt down the gunman, who was described as Hispanic and wearing a grey hoodie, dark pants and white shoes. He was last seen running off down E. Houston St. after the fatal gunfire.

We dont know who the suspect is, but were certainly hoping that the police is able to find him and bring him to justice, said Axson. This was totally devastating and totally unnecessary.
(Bloomberg) -- Brazil erupted Sunday night when the movie Im Still Here became the first Oscar winner in the countrys history  in the middle of national Carnival celebrations, no less.

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But the triumph of the film that details a womans fight with the Brazilian dictatorship over the disappearance of her husband in the 1970s also hit a nerve in the nation of 210 million.

Ainda Estou Aqui, as it is titled in Portuguese, debuted in Brazil amid an ongoing legal probe into former President Jair Bolsonaros role in the Jan. 8, 2023 insurrection attempt carried out by his supporters against Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who had narrowly won the election.

The film, which won the Academy Award for Best International Feature, is based on a 2015 memoir by Marcelo Rubens Paiva, a son of the movies subjects. It was always likely to split opinion in Brazil, where efforts to fully reckon with the 1964 coup that established a brutal military regime have for decades proved controversial.

Lula, whose leftist Workers Party traces its origins to anti-dictatorship activism, celebrated the victory on social media, saying he was proud of the the countrys artists and its democracy. Other lawmakers, political figures and celebrities quickly joined in.

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Bolsonaro, by contrast, dismissed Im Still Here in a January interview with Bloomberg News, saying that he was not even going to waste my time watching a movie that only told one side of the story.

His supporters also launched an unofficial boycott in theaters, while Marcelo Rubens Paiva was hit with a backpack and had a beer can thrown at him during a street festival in Sao Paulo, according to local newspaper reports.

Bolsonaro, a former army captain who surged to the presidency in 2018, has celebrated the military regime that ruled Brazil until 1985 throughout his career while brushing aside disappearances, murders and human rights abuses it committed. During that election, some of his most radical supporters openly called for the return of military rule.

In February, just more than a month after actress Fernanda Torres won the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Drama Film, Brazils top prosecutor filed federal charges against Bolsonaro and military officials whod served in his government for allegedly plotting a coup after his defeat.

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Im Still Here became the fifth-highest grossing film in Brazilian history, according to data from the National Film Agency. It has also been a phenomenon with critics and audiences, drawing rave reviews in Brazil and abroad.

The rare success for a Brazilian film on the world stage even turned it into a major theme of the planets largest Carnival celebrations. Before Sunday, only one other Brazilian had been nominated for a Best Actress Oscar  Torres mother, Fernanda Montenegro, for her performance in Central Station in 1999.

In Rio, where Im Still Here is set, cadres of revelers  many donning masks of Torres and costumes inspired by the movie  stopped the party briefly to watch it do what no other Brazilian film had before.

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The Trump administration has escalated its efforts to purge transgender service members from the military , urging them to voluntarily separate by March 26or face an uncertain future.

The directive, outlined in a March 1 memorandum from the Department of the Air Force, was filed Sunday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia as part of Talbott v. Trump, a legal challenge brought by GLAD Law and the National Center for Lesbian Rights. The memo, signed by Acting Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Manpower and Reserve Affairs Gwendolyn R. DeFilippi, states that individuals with gender dysphoria are incompatible with the high mental and physical standards necessary for military service.

Transgender service members are encouraged to elect to separate voluntarily no later than 26 March 2025, the memo states. Service members eligible for voluntary separation pay will be paid at a rate that is twice the amount for which the service member would have been eligible under involuntary separation pay. The memo applies explicitly to Air Force and Space Force members, though other branches are expected to follow suit.

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The document also confirms that previous waivers allowing them to use facilities and grooming standards consistent with their gender identity have been revoked effective immediately. Transgender personnel must now adhere to so-called biological sex standards for uniforms, grooming, fitness requirements, and access to showers, bathrooms, and lodging, it notes.



This ultimatum comes just one day after the administration admitted in court that the Department of Defense does not track service members by gender identity and has no clear idea how many transgender people actually serve. Despite this, it has moved aggressively to implement President Donald Trumps January 27 executive order, Prioritizing Military Excellence and Readiness, which charged Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth with coming up with policies to eliminate transgender people from military service under the guise of readiness.

Among other restrictions, the March 1 memo also halts access to gender-affirming medical care, though it permits ongoing hormone therapy to prevent further complications while service members await separation. Those who do not leave voluntarily face an uncertain administrative process with no guarantee of retention or protection from involuntary discharge.

The administrations own data undermines the rationale for this ban. According to the governments previous court filing, a Congressional Research Service report indicates that between January 2016 and May 2021, only 1,892 active-duty troops received gender-affirming carea fraction of the 1.3 million service members. Additionally, the Pentagon has admitted in court that it does not have reliable estimates on how many transgender people are serving.

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The filings come as part of a mandatory disclosure order from U.S. District Judge Ana Reyes, who, on February 5, ordered the administration to provide all policies and guidance related to Trumps anti-trans executive orders. The March 1 memo is the latest in a series of documents that outline the administrations rapid and aggressive implementation of its ban on transgender service members.

SPARTA Pridewhich represents transgender troopsemphasized that transgender people serve in critical roles across the military and that banning them will only weaken the U.S. Armed Forces.

On March 12, Reyes will hear arguments from GLAD Law and NCLR seeking an emergency injunction to block the policy, which, NCLR legal director Shanon Minter told The Advocate in a statement, would ensure that transgender troops who meet every qualification to serve can continue their commitment to serving our country.
Related Video: First hearing held for Dr. Brian Hyatts civil lawsuit in August 2024.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The attorney for Dr. Brian Hyatt is asking for the judge to issue a new trial date in his Medicaid fraud case in Pulaski County, according to court documents.

Hyatt, 52, is the former director of the Northwest Medical Centers Behavioral Health unit and a former member of the Arkansas State Medical Board.

Brian Hyatt, 52 (Courtesy of Benton County)

He faces two counts of violating the Medicaid Fraud Act. He was arrested in October 2023 and has pleaded not guilty to those charges.

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An affidavit filed in Pulaski County says that on April 1, 2022, the Arkansas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit received a complaint from a confidential informant who worked in the Behavioral Health Unit at the Northwest Medical Center in Springdale.

Hyatt was the director of the unit from February 2018 to May 2022.

First hearing held for Dr. Brian Hyatts civil lawsuit

The informant advised that Hyatt was only present at the unit a short time on the days that he was scheduled to work and that he had little to no contact with patients.

Court records show an omnibus hearing is scheduled for March 14, with the trial set to begin on April 9 and end on April 18.

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Hyatts attorney filed a motion to continue on Feb. 21, asking for the judge to push back the hearing and trial date.

The filing said legal counsels on both sides have agreed a continuance of the court dates would be appropriate.

Ongoing related matters may have a bearing on the trial in this case. It is in the interest of judicial efficiency to continue this case so that the issues to be litigated at trial are as narrowed, and the duration as limited, as is reasonable and appropriate to properly litigate the case, the filing said.

Court ruling could lead to more lawsuits against former medical board chair

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Hyatts attorney also said the case is complex and requires more than average investigation and preparation. The filing said Assistant Attorney General Leigh Patterson agreed the continuance is necessary.

If the delay is approved, it would be the second in the case. Hyatts trial was delayed after originally being set for Sept. 17, 2024.

In addition to his criminal case, Hyatt faces more than 200 civil lawsuits from former patients alleging they were falsely imprisoned by him.

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27,523 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?

27,523 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?
It was the day Britain finally put Brexit behind it and assumed its new role in Europe.

The Prime Minister welcomed a host of European leaders to a London summit with nothing less than the security of the Continent at stake.

As he sat down in the grand surroundings of Lancaster House, Sir Keir Starmer had Emmanuel Macron to his right and the under-pressure Volodymyr Zelensky to his left.

The three leaders are working on a peace plan for Ukraine to present to Donald Trump. It includes British and French troops as part of a peacekeeping force.

Credit: Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, BBC

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The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air, Sir Keir said. Europe would do the heavy lifting but it needed US security backstops to be credible.

Others could join in the future but for now the coalition of the willing is only Paris and London, the Continents two nuclear and major military powers.

Sir Keir said some countries had signalled they were willing to help.

Europes new world order is being built before our eyes. America a much more distant ally, Europe taking more responsibility for its own security through a kind of mini Nato.

That order will be led by Britain and France but also Germany, once Friedrich Merz is installed as the new chancellor. Mr Merz has already suggested Berlin sharing the British and French nuclear deterrent.

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The EU will play an influential role in raising finance for defence spending but, when security is at stake, the capitals take the lead.

Brexit is simply irrelevant in this context. Rows over cherry-picking, cakes and sausages are forgotten.

Previous governments said the UK was leaving the EU, not Europe but in the aftermath of the painful divorce, it went missing from the world stage.

Britain took almost a decade to fully emerge from its post-Brexit defensive crouch in foreign policy.

Now it is leading the pack, putting, on paper at least, the lives of its soldiers at risk for European security.

I do think the United Kingdom should step up and lead. We have done that historically as a nation, and we need to do it again, the Prime Minister said.

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Mr Trump has forced Europe to face the cold realities of standing on its own two feet, which will mean huge increases in defence spending and arms manufacturing.

Sir Keir said Europe would do the heavy lifting but needed Donald Trump to agree to US security backstops to be credible - Carl Court/Getty Images

Mr Macron believes it could take five to 10 years to build a European force capable of acting independently of Washington.

He will seek to drive home the Prime Ministers call for a post-ceasefire European troop deployment at an EU summit in Brussels next week. Like Sir Keir, he will call on his allies to increase defence spending and arm Kyiv to the teeth.

Sir Keirs next job is to orchestrate a reconciliation between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky.

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Behind the smiles and the show of European unity, he will have urged Mr Zelensky to swallow his pride and repair the rift with Washington as soon as possible.

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BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The following are the schedules for the third session of the 14th National People's Congress (NPC) and the third session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on Tuesday.

At 3 p.m., the third session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee will hold its opening meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Wang Huning, chairman of the CPPCC National Committee, will deliver a report on the work of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee.

In the morning, the NPC session will hold a preparatory meeting, followed by the first meeting of its presidium.

At noon, a press conference will be held for the NPC session. 
Britains most senior surveyor has been suspended as president of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) amid an investigation into his role in a legal battle over a 32m moth-ridden mansion.

Justin Sullivan has stepped aside just two months after being made president, RICS said, after he referred himself to the industry bodys standards and regulation board following his involvement in the case.

The role of president functions as an ambassador for the surveyor profession and lasts for a year.

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A spokesman for RICS said Nick Maclean, currently president-elect, has become acting president while the process is under way.

The investigation and Mr Sullivans suspension comes after he served as an expert witness for the seller of a luxury mansion in Notting Hill, west London, which turned out to be infested with moths.

Iya Patarkatsishvili  the daughter of a Georgian billionaire  and her dentist husband, Yevhen Hunyak, had bought the house for 32.5m in 2019.

The High Court was told that the couple found moths on their and their two childrens toothbrushes, cutlery and plates of food, with the insects also landing in glasses of wine and ruining their clothes.

Serious infestation

A High Court judge ruled last month that the seller, William Woodward-Fisher, the high-end property developer, failed to disclose the serious infestation to the buyers, and that they are entitled to a refund.

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Mr Woodward-Fisher has since been handed a 36.5m final court bill.

Mr Sullivan, who was called by Mr Woodward-Fisher as an expert witness, was criticised by the judge delivering the verdict for his conduct on the stand, as previously revealed by The Telegraph.

Mr Justice Fancourt said Mr Sullivan used flawed judgment during the process and was unwilling to make sensible concessions. The judge also said Mr Sullivan appeared to only have a limited grasp of the details of the case.

A spokesman for RICS said: This follows the involvement of Justin Sullivan FRICS as an expert witness in High Court proceedings in the case of Iya Patarkatsishvili & Anor v William Woodward-Fisher, about which he has referred the matter to the standards and regulation boards regulatory team.

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Nick will bring his 30 years of experience at CBRE including being chair of CBRE Middle East and North Africa region and seven years as a Scottish trade envoy. He has also been an active member of RICS for over 20 years having served on and chaired the governing council.

A misunderstanding 

A representative for Mr Sullivan said: There is a misunderstanding and an over-reaction. Mr Sullivan is a chartered quantity surveyor and is instructed in litigation as an expert witness. There is no finding of professional misconduct against Mr Sullivan.

He has referred himself to RICS as a matter of routine. That process is confidential. Mr Sullivan has nothing further to say at present.

RICS regulates property surveyors and valuers in Britain and has 134,000 members. It has been on a drive to rebuild the publics trust in recent years, in the wake of a governance scandal that triggered three independent reviews into how it operates, as well as the exit of former chief executive Sean Tompkins.

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In 2023, the bodys entire standards and regulation board resigned en-masse following a row with management.

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British Airways is to open a new maintenance hangar at Gatwick airport as it scrambles to reduce delays to its European summer holiday flights.

The 88m hangar, bought from Boeing, will allow BA to carry out repairs at the airport rather than sending planes to facilities scattered around the UK, as it has done in the past.

The move to speed up repairs comes after BA was rated the second-worst performer in Europe for cancelled flights last year, with more than 7,000 services lost, according to a survey by Cirium.

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Disruption has been caused by an aircraft availability crisis, triggered by the grounding of Boeing 787s for unscheduled repairs to their Rolls-Royce engines.

While the Gatwick hangar will not service the 787s, it will provide much-needed additional capacity. The large 787s can monopolise maintenance capacity at BAs existing facilities, impacting repairs to other jets.

Sean Doyle, the airlines chief executive, said the new hangar should improve summer utilisation of the 26 Airbus short-haul jets that serve Mediterranean destinations for BA from Gatwick.

Mr Doyle said the new site will provide an immediate cost saving by diminishing the need to fly Gatwick-based planes to other locations for maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO).

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He said: The ability to do more on-site maintenance is very attractive. What weve found in the last few years is having more resilience on our MRO and maintenance functions is a real strategic advantage.

It also gives us the capacity to do more winter maintenance across our short-haul programmes.

The deal with Boeing will result in BA taking over the site and its workforce of more than 100 technicians, creating a subsidiary to be called British Airways Engineering Gatwick.

Boeing opened the Gatwick hangar at a cost of 88m in 2019, planning to provide maintenance to a fleet of 787 jets with which Norwegian Air aimed to challenge BA by offering cheap North Atlantic flights.

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However, Covid-19 rendered the site a white elephant as airlines ceased flying. Boeing repurposed it for converting older 737 passenger jets into cargo planes to meet burgeoning demand following the pandemic. With the normalisation of trade flows, demand for freighter conversions has now faded.

While BA already has a maintenance operation at Gatwick, it lacks the space and expertise to undertake so-called heavy maintenance work. BA currently has heavy engineering facilities at Cardiff and Glasgow airports, together with a more limited operation at Heathrow.

The Gatwick purchase is expected to be completed in the next few months, in time to start supporting the BA Airbus A320-family fleet by the summer.

The site will also be able to perform minor maintenance work on the 12 Boeing 777 planes based at Gatwick that fly to the Caribbean and US.

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BA continues to face delays caused by problems with its Rolls-Royce engines. Luis Gallego, chief executive of BAs parent International Airlines Group, said on Friday that disruption from unscheduled repairs will stretch into next year, forcing the carrier to continue with a limited schedule.

Mr Gallego said Rolls-Royce was set to provide an upgrade that should cut the required maintenance interventions by half.

We are working to maximise availability of aircraft and to have more predictability, he said.

We are going to have a durability enhancement package very soon that we hope is going to double the time on wing. We will have a second phase of this in 2026.

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Terms of the hangars purchase by BA were not disclosed.

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March 3 (UPI) -- A British watchdog group Tuesday announced investigations into platforms including TikTok and Reddit over the handling of underage users' personal data.

The Information Commissioner's Office said the probe is looking into how TikTok uses the personal information of users aged 13-17 to make recommendations and place suggested content into their feeds.

"This is in light of growing concerns about social media and video sharing platforms using data generated by children's online activity in their recommender systems, which could lead to young people being served inappropriate or harmful content," the ICO said in a news release.

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The watchdog said it is also looking into how Reddit and image-sharing site Imgur use the personal information of children and how they verify the ages of users.

The ICO said the probe will determine whether any data protection legislation has been violated.

"If we find there is sufficient evidence that any of these companies have broken the law, we will put this to them and obtain their representations before reaching a final conclusion," the announcement said.

The ICO said it would coordinate its investigations with the Office of Communications, or Ofcom, which is charged with enforcement of the Online Safety Act.

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Information Commissioner John Edwards said his office is aiming to "make the online world a safer place."

"My message is simple. If social media and video sharing platforms want to benefit from operating in the U.K. they must comply with data protection law," he said. "The responsibility to keep children safe online lies firmly at the door of the companies offering these services and my office is steadfast in its commitment to hold them to account."

A TikTok representative told Politico the company is "deeply committed to ensuring a positive experience for young people on TikTok, just like the ICO."

"Our recommender systems are designed and operate under strict and comprehensive measures that protect the privacy and safety of teens, including industry-leading safety features and robust restrictions on the content allowed in teens' feeds," the representative said.
** This article has been corrected to show the correct attribution for the Buc-ees spring timeline. We regret the error. **



DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  You will have to wait a bit longer to step into Ohios first Buc-ees location.

According to Jeff Nadalo, Buc-ees general counsel, the Buc-ees location at 8000 State Route 235 in Huber Heights is now expected to be open for business in spring 2026.

The Buc-ees experience: Gas station meets chaos

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The project broke ground Aug. 8, 2024, where local and Buc-ees leaders provided insight into the future growth of the location and area.

In November 2024, construction was halted for a number of weeks due to conflict between the city of Huber Heights and Clark County regarding sewer and water services. That issue was resolved, and construction once again resumed in December 2024.

Upon opening, the location is expected to have 100 fueling positions and 24 EV charging stations. Thousands of beverage, food and retail merchandise options will be available for purchase inside.

Huber Heights Mayor Jeff Gore told 2 NEWS the convenience store company has not provided the city with any change in their timeline.

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The location had been expected to open by the end of 2025.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
Police are searching for two suspects involved in a burglary at a home in the Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles early Monday morning.

The incident was reported just after 1 a.m. in the 15400 block of Milldale Drive.

Video showed what appeared to be hundreds of dollars in stolen cash that was dropped on the street along with several high-end bags during the getaway.

The suspects were described only as two males wearing all black, according to a spokesperson with the Los Angeles Police Department.

Cash is seen on the street following a burglary in Bel-Air on March 3, 2025. (RMG News)

The suspects remain on the loose after fleeing the home on foot and then jumping into a getaway car.

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It was unclear if anyone was inside the home at the time of the burglary.

No injuries were reported.

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Power was restored at BWI Marshall Airport on Monday after a fire near the airport caused outages in the main terminal, leading to delays and long lines.

A Maryland Aviation Administration spokesperson said that full power had been restored by around 11:15 a.m. after the outages killed power in the airports main terminal and hourly garage.

The outage shut down security for several hours and caused airlines to delay and divert flights. A total of 146 flights in and out of BWI had been delayed, according to the flight tracking website FlightAware.

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Our electrical team worked throughout the morning to restore power as quickly and safely as possible, MAA spokesperson Jonathan Dean said.

The outage was related to a fire and wires down in the area of West Baltimore & Annapolis Road and Park 100 Drive just south of the airport, according to a Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. spokesperson. Anne Arundel County Police posted on social media around 8:30 a.m. that the fire created a road closure.

After bringing power back online, BGE was working with the airport to ensure permanent resolution of any equipment issues, a spokesperson for the utility, Stephanie Weaver, said.

We will make an organized chaos line here, a Southwest desk agent said over the terminals P.A. system after power came back on. Just bear with us; were gonna start getting this line rocking and rolling here shortly.

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Leah McCormick arrived at BWI at around 9 a.m. to fly to Louisville  though her 11:20 a.m. flight ultimately got rescheduled for 9:30 p.m.

Its not the most convenient, she said.

Baltimore Sun photographer Lloyd Fox contributed to this article. Have a news tip? Contact Dan Belson at dbelson@baltsun.com, on X as @DanBelson_ or on Signal as @danbels.62.
CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Extra security was called to a Charlotte high school on Monday following a fight on campus, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools confirmed.

The altercation happened Monday morning, March 3, at Mallard Creek High School located at 3825 Johnston Oehler Road. Officials said it happened in the schools cafeteria.

According to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, to their knowledge, no students were transported to the hospital by Medic and would not comment further on anyones medical condition.

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We do not have any information to share about the medical condition of anyone involved, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools said to Queen City News on Monday.

Charlotte Fire responded to the school on Monday in response to the altercation.

Below is the message sent to Mallard Creek High families on Monday:

Good morning Mallard Creek High families, this is Principal Thompson reaching out to inform you about a fight that occurred in the cafeteria this morning. This behavior is disruptive to the learning environment and is a violation of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Code of Student Conduct. All students involved will be disciplined accordingly. I have requested extra security personnel on campus for the duration of the day. The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our top priority. Families, we ask that you continue to partner with us in creating a safe learning environment for all students by speaking with your child(ren) about appropriate behavior at school and reminding them about the consequences of their actions. Thank you for your continued support of Mallard Creek High. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools said they cannot comment on student discipline at this time.

This is a Developing Story . Check back for updates

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DENVER (KDVR)  A snowstorm will sweep the region overnight Monday, and the Colorado Avalanche Information Center is warning that for some areas, that means a jump in avalanche danger from low to high overnight.

The storm impacts are expected to start in the Denver metro with rain Monday afternoon and switch to snow overnight. The CAIC said the storm will bring rapid change to snow and avalanche conditions across Colorado, requiring a mindset shift for backcountry travelers.

FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar

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Thats because after almost a week of spring-like weather, winter is returning to Colorado as it begins its snowiest month on record. The agency said Mondays overnight snowstorm is the first of a series of storms expected throughout the next week, and said the mountains will undergo dramatic change in a relatively short time.

Accompanying the storms are strong winds, according to the CAIC. FOX31s Pinpoint Weather Team Meteorologist Liz McGiffin is forecasting breezes in the metro of about 20 to 30 mph, but maximum wind gusts from Monday into Wednesday morning could have wind gusts in portions of the mountains near Breckenridge and Red Feather Lakes reaching 70 and 50 mph, respectively.

The CAIC said the biggest swing in avalanche danger will be seen in Colorados northern mountains. Areas like Rocky Mountain National Park and Summit County are expected to swing from a low avalanche danger (level 1 of 5) to high danger (4 out of 5) overnight Monday into Tuesday.

Most models show an area of particularly heavy snow around Cameron Pass and Rocky Mountain National Park with totals near 18 inches, the CAIC said in its forecast discussion.

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Man killed in Aspen ski crash remembered for quiet demeanor, adventurous spirit

The group said that other portions of the state will see avalanche danger rising to level 3 of 5 due to the first round of snow.

Because of the rapid rise in danger, an Avalanche Watch is in effect for the Front Range and Summit County from Monday at 4:30 p.m. through Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. The group is not recommending travel in avalanche terrain during this time.

So far during the 2024-2025 winter recreation season, the CAIC has recorded three deadly avalanche incidents.

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WACO, Texas (FOX 44)  Not much offense to close out the Baylor Invitational on Sunday but Cal Baptist used a RBI-double in the bottom of the seventh to outlast Baylor, 2-1 on Sunday afternoon.

Baylor returns to action against No. 2 Texas in Austin on Wednesday, March 5th before opening up Big 12 conference play against Kansas this coming weekend.

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PIEDMONT, Calif. (AP)  Drug use and excessive speed were to blame for last year's fiery crash of a Tesla Cybertruck that killed three college students near San Francisco, the California Highway Patrol said in a preliminary report.

Four people were in the Cybertruck when it veered off a road, slammed into a retaining wall and burst into flames shortly after 3 a.m. on Nov. 27 in Piedmont.

Officers determined that a combination of driving under the influence of drugs and unsafe speed were the causes of the crash, the highway patrol said in a statement last week.

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Although police officers who responded were unable to douse the flames with their fire extinguishers, the fire department put the blaze out quickly, officials said at the time.

Piedmont Fire Chief Dave Brannigan said the day after the crash that the speed in extinguishing the flames meant it was unlikely that the Cybertrucks large lithium-ion battery had caught fire. He called the incident more along the lines of a typical car fire.

Killed in the single-vehicle crash were Soren Dixon, 19, Jack Nelson, 20, and Krysta Tsukahara, 19. The fourth occupant, Jordan Miller, 20, survived after someone in another car managed to pull him out of the wreckage. All four were home from college for Thanksgiving break and graduates of Piedmont High School, the San Francisco Chronicle reported Sunday.

The Chronicle cited toxicology reports that determined the three victims who died had alcohol, cocaine and other substances in their system. Their deaths were ruled an accident because they were caused by asphyxia due to inhalation of smoke from the car, and burns were a significant factor in their deaths, the autopsy report said.

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The highway patrol's investigation is ongoing and a final reported is expected within months, the agency said.

The Cybertruck, which has been available for purchase for more than a year, has been recalled multiple times for safety problems, including once in November because a fault in an electric inverter can cause the drive wheels to lose power. Last April, the futuristic-looking trucks were recalled to fix gas pedals that can get stuck in the interior trim.
OSAKA, Japan, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The construction and exhibition setup of the China Pavilion for the 2025 Osaka Expo was inspected on Sunday.

Inspired by traditional Chinese calligraphy scrolls, the pavilion's architectural design embodies the theme of "Building a Community of Life for Man and Nature -- Future Society of Green Development."

The pavilion will feature three sections to showcase China's traditional ecological wisdom, modern green development initiatives, and its vision of global cooperation in fostering a sustainable future.

Chinese Consul General in Osaka Xue Jian highlighted the expo as a valuable opportunity for global audiences to gain deeper insights into China. He expressed hope that visitors from Japan and beyond would explore the pavilion and experience China's ancient civilization and progress in modernization.

Curated by a Chinese exhibition team, the pavilion incorporates advanced display technologies and emphasizes immersive and interactive experiences.

The expo will be held from April 13 to Oct. 13. 
California, Texas and Washington, D.C., lead the nation in teacher diversity, according to a recent report by the National Council on Teacher Quality.

While the nations college-educated workforce overall is diversifying more quickly than the teaching pool, the NCTQ found that California, Texas, and Washington, D.C., are following the opposite trajectory. But the nonprofit questions some of the methods used to increase diversity, such as alternative pathways or lower standards for teacher certification, said Ron Noble, the councils chief of teacher preparation.

We found that places like Texas are achieving [more teacher diversity], but with policies that have us concerned about the long-term health of the teacher pipeline, Noble said. California and Washington, D.C., offer potential bright spots that might not have that same pitfall.

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Related

As College-Educated Workforce Has Diversified, Teachers Havent Kept Pace

NCTQs report follows its December launch of a teacher diversity dashboard that tracks the racial makeup of U.S. educator corps from 2014 to 2022. Noble said the organization is focusing on educator workforce diversity because employing teachers of color improves academic, social, emotional and behavior outcomes for students.

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We really want states to be deliberate and intentional in  and careful how they go about  achieving the goal of a diverse workforce, Noble said.

Teachers from historically disadvantaged groups in the U.S. make up nearly 23% of working-age adults with degrees but 21% of the teacher workforce, according to the dashboard.

In Texas, 35% of college-educated adults are from historically disadvantaged groups, compared with 43% of teachers. But researchers found that behind the high diversity number were flawed alternative certification programs and uncertified teachers  both of which became more common with educator shortages during the pandemic.

In the 2021-22 school year, 51% of Texas teachers completed alternative certification programs, compared with an average of 19% in other states, according to NCTQ. Alternative pathways are more diverse than traditional programs: One study found that Black Texas teachers were more than three times as likely to pursue alternative certification than a more common route like a bachelors degree.

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Texas Schools are Hiring More Teachers Without Traditional Training

Noble said researchers found that the majority of alternative programs in Texas are fully online and that graduates can become teachers with little to no classroom experience. A 2024 Texas Tech University study found that online alternative pathways have a higher turnover rate than other teacher preparation programs.

They are thrown right into a high-stakes environment, he said. Its not surprising that there are people leaving the profession.

The number of uncertified teachers is also growing in Texas classrooms. Last year, state data reported that 34% of newly hired teachers in Texas were uncertified. The NCTQ report says racial demographics of uncertified teachers arent tracked, making it hard for policymakers to understand the impact on the future diversity of the educator workforce.

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In California, nearly 33% of the teachers come from historically disadvantaged groups, compared with 27% of college-educated adults.

The NCTQ report says Californias effort to prioritize teacher diversity, invest in educator training and track industry data are reasons why diversity rates are higher than the norm. The state has invested more than $1 billion in recent years to strengthen the teacher workforce. Advocates have built a diversity road map and plan to launch a teacher training and retention dashboard later this year to track demographic and employment data.

NCTQ said in its report that California has lowered standards for teacher candidates to enter the profession. A bill that passed in June allows for a bachelors degree in any subject to be the sole qualifier for admission into most teacher preparation programs.

NCTQ also cited Washington, D.C., for its high diversity rates, though its trendlines are not on the same trajectory as Californias and Texass. In 2022, 69% of educators came from historically disadvantaged groups, a drop from 77% in 2020. Adults with college degrees from these groups were reported at 35% in 2022.

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It would be easy to explain away D.C.s teacher diversity by pointing out that it is a city, not a state, and cities are typically more diverse than states, the report says. However, comparing D.C.s teacher and student demographics to those in other large cities in the United States suggests D.C.s approach to diversifying the teacher workforce is yielding results.

The NCTQ report shows that the teacher workforce in Washington, D.C., more closely mirrored its student population than those of other districts of similar size and student demographics.

Related

From D.C., a Better Way to Hire Teachers

About 87% of the districts student population are people of color, as is 74% of the teacher workforce. Researchers found that Atlanta Public Schools was the only demographically similar district that had a smaller student-to-teacher diversity gap.

The report credits consistent prioritization of educator diversity and innovative teacher preparation pathways for the high percentages in Washington, D.C. The region established Grow Your Own preparation programs with university partners and has implemented a centralized hiring process that yields more diverse candidates.
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Officials in Topeka are eyeing some areas in the Capital City to serve as camping-friendly zones as part of a new strategy to end homelessness in the local area.

27 News reached out to the City of Topeka and city councilmembers to learn more about the plans under discussion this year to bring an end to homelessness. City leaders are currently implementing the new Built For Zero model which utilizes a four-phase approach to stopping homelessness in Topeka. Part of this model involves designating camping-friendly areas.

City of Topeka spokesman Dan Garrett said there are ongoing discussions taking place this year on designating some areas in the city as being camping-friendly. These areas would be exempt from a restrictive local camping ordinance which prevents people from living in many areas in Topeka.

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Opening date released for new Topeka HomeGoods

Councilwoman Christina Valdivia-Alcala told 27 News she is helping identify solutions to the current homeless issue in Topeka, including finding areas that would be exempt from the camping ordinance. These tightly regulated areas would factor into the Built For Zero strategy to gradually bring homelessness down in Topeka.

The City of Topeka along with myself and Councilman Duncan are actively attempting to look for spaces for camping, Valdivia-Alcala said. We hope to have this information soon.

Valdivia-Alcala said constituents in her district, which covers north Topeka and the Oakland neighborhoods, have raised concerns over the years about local homeless camps, including a new one that she spent months trying to get cleaned up. She recently worked with other officials in Topeka to clear a large homeless camp along the Kansas River under the expanded camping ordinance.

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Residents on both sides of the [Sardou] bridge have been very vocal for a number of years, Valdivia-Alcala said. The have concerns of fire too. What is happening with raw sewage and trash going into the river. They get concerned about gunshots many times heard in these areas.

Squatting could become a crime in Kansas with new bill

District 8 City Councilman Spencer Duncan said he will be visiting the possible new camping-friendly zones to see if they align with the citys plans. He said the current camping ordinance, while strict, is necessary but ultimately wont solve homelessness in Topeka on its own.

The goal is to find some locations that are workable for the unsheltered, but also do not pose any problems for neighborhoods, schools and other areas, Duncan said. If we find some sites, then they will be presented to the Governing Body, and would have to be approved by them as exempt areas from the current camping ordinance. This would also give the public ample time to weigh in with their thoughts on these locations, which is essential to the process. The goal is not pick too many sites, but just a few.

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Duncan said the camping-friendly zones would not become permanent camping sites for homeless people. Instead, people who stay in these areas would have to abide by camping, nuisance and blight laws and would not be able to stay for more than 10 consecutive days. Homeless individuals using these areas would also not be able to build structures or leave trash behind.

What is delaying the opening of the Kansas Museum of History in Topeka?

However, these areas would give them [homeless people] a place to go if they are displaced from one location, and some time to get assistance from our departments or determine their next steps, Duncan said. Right now, we dont really have those areas. But in no terms are these to be permanent encampment areas.

Topekas City Council and other local officials are expected to continue discussions on this issue in the days ahead in their continuing efforts to reduce the impact of homelessness in Kansas capital. Duncan invites people who have strong feelings on this issue to join the conversation and give their feedback to city leaders.

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Its a difficult issue, but we have to address it and find ways to reduce the homeless population and its impact in Topeka, Duncan said. And there are many other efforts underway to continue to address the issue.

27 News asked Duncan and Valdivia-Alcala which areas are currently being considered as camping-friendly. However, they did not say what places are being examined at this time.

New north Topeka diner specializing in smash burgers, reuben sandwiches to open next month

For more information on homelessness in the Capital City, click here. You can view the results of the most recent Point-In-Time Homeless County in Topeka by clicking here.

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For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced new sanctions against Russia in response to its ongoing aggression against Ukraine during the London summit.

Source: official website of the Canadian prime minister

Quote from the statement: "During the Securing our Future Summit, the Prime Minister announced new sanctions against 10 individuals and 21 entities, including paramilitary organisations and their leaders, to help counter Russias reliance on third-party organisations and countries to advance its political and military objectives in Ukraine.

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To date, Canada has imposed sanctions on over 3,000 individuals and entities complicit in Russias aggression  and we remain committed to working with our partners to increase economic pressure on Russia."

Quote from Trudeau: "Ukraines fight for sovereignty is a fight for freedom and democracy everywhere. The important discussions we had today reinforced our shared resolve: as Allies, we will remain steadfast in our support for Ukraine.

Canada will be there for Ukraine until there is a just and lasting peace. Slava Ukraini!"

Details: The sanctions target nine leaders of post-Wagner paramilitary organisations, one senior Russian military official associated with them, nine paramilitary organisations operating in Ukraine and the Kremlins African network, as well as 12 affiliated organisations responsible for resource extraction within this network.

Background:

Eighteen world leaders  including the heads of state and government of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Canada, Poland, Czechia, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Romania and Ukraine, along with Turkiyes foreign minister, the presidents of the European Commission and European Council, and the NATO secretary general  gathered at Lancaster House in central London at the invitation of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss a peace settlement plan for Ukraine.

Following the summit, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that Ukraine must be placed in a position of strength by providing it with defensive means to turn it into a "steel porcupine".

Earlier, it was reported that the UK would allocate 1.6 billion for Ukraines air defence missile procurement. Additionally, the UK confirmed its readiness to deploy peacekeepers to Ukraine, ensuring its security with "boots on the ground and planes in the air".

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Canada introduced new sanctions on March 2 against 10 Russian individuals and 21 entities, including paramilitary groups.

The sanctions were announced by the Office of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, following his participation the same day in the European leaders summit in London.

Canadas new sanctions target leaders of post-Wagner paramilitary organizations, a senior Russian military official, and several groups operating in Ukraine and Africa, as well as entities involved in resource extraction within these networks.

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"To date, Canada has imposed sanctions on over 3,000 individuals and entities complicit in Russias aggression  and we remain committed to working with our partners to increase economic pressure on Russia," the statement said. Canadas commitment to Ukraine is unwavering.

The summit included leaders and senior representatives of 15 countries, invited by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss a path toward a just and lasting peace in Ukraine in the face of Russias war.

Zelensky arrived in London following his trip to the U.S. Ukraine's leader left Washington without signing the much-anticipated natural resources deal after a public spat with U.S. President Donald Trump, prompting shock and concerns about the future of U.S.-Ukraine ties.

Read also: Putin ally pushing for US, Russia restart of Nord Stream 2, FT reports

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President Donald Trump plans to go forward with import tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods on Tuesday, possibly starting a North American trade war.

The import duties are aimed at forcing more cooperation from Canada and Mexico on stopping illegal immigration and drug smuggling into the U.S., Trump said.

The Trump administration said tariffs will be imposed, despite a boost in border security and a diplomatic push by both Canadian and Mexican officials to finalize an agreement before the deadline.

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The president is thinking right now how he wants to play it with Canada and Mexico, and that is a fluid situation, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told Fox news on Sunday. There are going to be tariffs on Tuesday on Mexico and Canada. Exactly what they are, were going to leave that for the president and his team to negotiate.

While Trump has threatened several nations with tariffs, so far China is the only country to be hit with increased duties. Trump went forward with a 10% tariff on imports from China on Feb. 1.

On Feb. 3, Trump agreed to pause 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada after leaders of those countries promised to strengthen border security.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government is committed to cooperation with the Trump administration but would do what is best for her country.

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The meetings in the United States were very good; there is permanent communication with the different areas, both security and trade, and we will wait to see what happens, she said during her daily morning news conference on Monday. It is a decision that depends on the United States government, on the president of the United States. Whatever this decision is, we will make our decisions and there is a plan and there is unity in Mexico and that strengthens us a lot.

Border Patrol recorded about 8,450 apprehensions of migrants who crossed into the country unlawfully along the U.S.-Mexico border, according to preliminary government data obtained by CBS News.

Februarys total could be the lowest monthly apprehensions recorded by border agents since at least fiscal year 2000.

Last week, Mexico sent 29 drug cartel figures, including a man involved in the 1985 killing of a Drug Enforcement Administration agent, to the U.S., The Associated Press reported.

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Both Canadian and Mexican authorities have said if the Trump levies go into force, their governments will impose retaliatory import tariffs against the U.S.



A report from the Peterson Institute for International Economics said if the Trump administration imposed 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, alongside the 10% duties on Chinese goods, it could cost the typical U.S. household an additional $1,200 a year.

The post Canada, Mexico tariffs a fluid situation, Commerce head says appeared first on FreightWaves.
Tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico will come into force on Tuesday, Donald Trump has announced.

The president said he would proceed with the planned 25 per cent levies on Americas neighbouring countries, which had been paused after the two agreed to take action against illegal migration and drug trafficking.

There was no room left to make a deal, he said, after a month long-pause on the plans, which will drag the nations into a global trade war.

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Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Mr Trump said: Very importantly tomorrow, tariffs, 25 per cent on Canada and 25 per cent on Mexico.

What they have to do is build their car plans frankly and other things in the United States, in which case they have no tariffs.

However, Mr Trump suggested he could exempt Britain from tariffs by signing a trade deal, telling reporters: Were looking at the UK with things  it doesnt have to be tariffs.

Mr Trump will also impose a further 10 per cent on Chinese goods.

Stocks tumbled on Wall Street after the president confirmed the plans.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 stock indexes were both down around 1.8 per cent shortly after Mr Trumps White House press conference on Monday afternoon, while the Nasdaq dropped 2.9 per cent.

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Investors are growing increasingly concerned about the impact of tariffs on the US economy.

An economic survey published earlier in the day suggested Americas manufacturing sector is on the brink of shrinking as new orders dry up.

Canada vows to retaliate

The presidents announcement comes after Jonathan Wilkinson, Canadas energy minister, threatened to retaliate with tariffs on American orange juice and bourbon.

Mr Wilkinson said: If the United States moves to put tariffs on its best friend and closest ally, it would be an aggressive move and would be seen by all Canadians as being an aggressive move, and we would need to retaliate.

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Some officials in the North American country have also threatened to escalate the looming trade war by imposing tariffs on  or cutting off shipments of  oil gas and electricity in the US.

On Monday, Mr Trump also announced plans to impose tariffs on agricultural imports next month.

To the great farmers of the United States: get ready to start making a lot of agricultural product to be sold inside of the United States, the US president wrote on his Truth Social platform on Monday.

Tariffs will go on external product on April 2nd. Have fun!

Blanket tariffs would hit British farmers hard

The biggest agricultural importers to the US are Canada, the European Union and Mexico. It is unclear if the tariff would come on top of the duties that are due to be imposed on Canada and Mexico shortly after midnight on Tuesday.

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A blanket tariff on agricultural imports would hit British farmers hard, who in 2021 sent more than $78 billion in beef, lamb and other goods to the US.

American farmers could also likely be hit with increased potash prices, as roughly 80 per cent of the vital fertiliser comes from Canada.

Tariffs could be placed on products that are sold in large volumes by American companies such as Kentucky bourbon - John Sommers II

Experts believe that Mr Trumps 25 per cent tariff would result in mass layoffs and an end to shipping between the US, Canada and Mexico because it is significantly higher than the profit margins on the exported vehicles.

Last month, Jim Farley, head of the Ford Motor Company, predicted that the proposed tariffs would blow a hole in the automotive industry.

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Asked what form Canadian retaliation could take, he told CNBC: Where we would start is looking at products that are sold in large volumes by American companies into Canada for which there are readily available alternatives for Canadians so think orange juice, think Kentucky bourbon, all of those kinds of things.

Mr Trump imposed 10 per cent tariffs on Canadas aluminium in his first term, which industry expert Jean Simard said had been highly disruptive. The proposed 25 per cent tariffs would be highly destructive, he told The New York Times.

Canada had attempted to stave off the tariffs and placate the US president by clamping down on illegal border crossings and drug smuggling into the US.

It has spent roughly $900 million to boost its number of border patrol officers, invest in drone surveillance, equip authorities with two Black Hawk army helicopters, and appoint a fentanyl tsar.

Fluid situation

Howard Lutnick, Mr Trumps commerce secretary, earlier on Monday said the president was still weighing up what to do, adding that Americas two neighbouring countries had so-far done a good job on tightening their borders with the US but had to do more to stop the flow of fentanyl.

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Hes sort of thinking about right now how exactly he wants to play with Mexico and Canada, and that is a fluid situation.

There are going to be tariffs on Tuesday on Mexico and Canada. Exactly what they are, were going to leave that for the president and his team to negotiate, Mr Lutnick told Fox News.

Mr Trump has accused his neighbouring nations of allowing drugs and migrants to pour into his country over their shared borders.

Prior to Mr Trumps comments, Mexicos president said on Monday that she has back-up plans in case the tariffs come into force.

Claudia Sheinbaum, speaking in a morning press conference, said she would speak more about her decisions on Tuesday, but that whatever the US decided, Mexico was ready.

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We have a plan B, C, D, Ms Sheinbaum said, without giving details of the plans.

Mexican officials met with their US counterparts in Washington last week to discuss trade and security policy in the hope of staving off tariffs.

Ms Sheinbaum described the meetings in Washington as cordial and said that coordination with the US had been very good so far.

Drug smugglers in Mexico have said that they fear arrest or death by authorities after Mexico stepped up its pressure on the cartels with a series of arrests, raids, and extraditions of kingpins to the US.

However, Mr Trump warned last week that he was not satisfied with the steps that Canada and Mexico had taken to clamp down on fentanyl trafficking.

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(Bloomberg) -- A majority of Canadian consumers said theyve pulled back on buying US-made products and are shopping less on Amazon.com Inc. since US President Donald Trump escalated his threats against Canada.

Most Read from Bloomberg

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Two-thirds of those surveyed said they bought fewer American items from stores in past weeks, with 55% ordering less from Amazon, according to a poll from Leger Marketing, a Canadian public opinion research firm. Spokespeople for Amazon did not reply to emails requesting comment.

Trump has angered Canadians with his threats to use economic force  including tariffs  on his northern neighbor, along with his repeated suggestion that Canada should become an American state. That has caused an outburst of patriotism in the nation of 41 million people, with consumers sharing lists of available Canadian products, canceling or delaying US travel plans, and booing the US national anthem at sporting events.

An economic fallout would be painful for both sides: No country buys more from the US than Canada, and the US is by far Canadas most important export market.

Opinion polls dont always accurately reflect consumer behavior, and for some households, a change in spending patterns isnt necessarily about political protest. Trumps tariff threats have hurt the value of the Canadian dollar against the greenback, reducing Canadians purchasing power for US products and travel. It was the worst-performing G10 currency this year as of Sunday.

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But the Leger poll, which surveyed more than 1,500 Canadian adults from Feb. 21 to 23, also makes it clear theres deep frustration and worry in Canada about Trumps threats, which include 25% tariffs on most of what it sells to the US.

The survey found that 83% of Canadian respondents were concerned that Trump would use tariffs and trade sanctions to push Canada into a closer and more formal economic relationship with the United States. About three-quarters support the idea that the Canadian government should retaliate with counter-tariffs against US goods, if Trump follows through on his trade plans.

Leger said 77% of Canadians have an unfavorable impression of Trump, with 14% having a favorable impression. The rest said they didnt know enough about him or were unsure.

--With assistance from Yasufumi Saito.

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  As Ohio legislators look to crack down on voter-approved recreational marijuana laws, cannabis industry leaders are asking them to reconsider.

Senate Bill 56 would make dozens of changes to Ohios recreational marijuana program, a citizen-led statute that passed in November 2023 with 57% of voters in favor. The bill passed in the Ohio Senate and now heads to the House as cannabis industry stakeholders speak out against the legislation. See previous coverage of the bill in the video player above.

S.B. 56 is a 147-page bill that would repeal most of Ohios current Cannabis Control Law, replacing it with new and more restrictive legislation. It is a sweeping bill with many aspects that would strengthen regulations against home growing, adult use, dispensary licensing, cannabis farmers, employment, taxation and product options.

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Vivek Ramaswamys nonprofit is barely known but it makes big claims

In the Senate committee, the legislation saw four testimonies in favor of S.B. 56 and 40 testimonies against it. The ACLU of Ohio was one of the 40, and said many Ohioans likely would have wanted to provide testimony opposing S.B. 56 but were unable to with the speed it moved through the Senate.

Karen OKeefe also shared opponents testimony. OKeefe is an attorney and director of state policies for the largest cannabis policy reform organization in the U.S., a nonprofit called Marijuana Policy Project. OKeefe condemned the bills restrictions, saying it would recriminalize many aspects of cannabis use that voters approved.

OKeefe said many of the regulations unfairly limit adult use. She called portions of S.B. 56 that would enforce mandatory jail time for anyone who smokes or vapes cannabis on a boat outrageous. OKeefe also pointed to restrictions in the bill barring sharing cannabis among a household, including if the homeowners grew the plant themselves.

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Spouses would have to have his and her cannabis, she said. Imagine being prohibited from sharing a bottle of wine with friends and family. This prohibition is nonsensical.

Ohio transportation budget includes air travel, passenger rail

Cannabis Safety First founder Tim Johnson said the bills concerns about public safety are redundant at best. Johnson, a veteran and retired law enforcement officer, said the state should support cannabis as a sustainable new industry rather than adding new criminal penalties for cannabis use.

If passed, Ohioans would only be permitted to grow six plants, halving the current 12-plant policy, which many opponents disagreed with. Larger marijuana cultivators also spoke out against the bills restrictions toward growing cannabis.

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As a farmer, Im asking you to remove the clause that prohibits hemp farmers from growing high THC cannabis outside, Joey Ellwood with Appalachian Girls Cannabis Company said. Im one of seven hemp farmers left in Ohio and our family has endured many challenges with this market.

Chad Thompson, founder and organizer of the outdoor cannabis festival Stargazer Fest, said he felt the cultivating changes were largely lawmakers overregulating.

Ohio Intel plant construction delayed into next decade

If you can grow six, why cant you grow 12? I mean, this is just an infringement on personal freedoms and rights that the Ohio citizens voted for, Thompson said.

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The bill would also cap the number of total active dispensaries at 350. Currently, Ohio has issued 128 certificates of operation.

Since recreational dispensaries first opened in the state last August, business has boomed for cannabis sales. Ohio currently averages between 200,000 and 300,000 individual cannabis sales each week, and non-medical sales have brought in more than $333 million in just seven months.

Nicole Stark, CEO of Bloom dispensary, said they are carefully reviewing S.B. 56 and will continue to ensure safe and effective access for patients and customers.

Ohio voters made their voices heard in the recent election, and we hope any legislative changes will continue to reflect the will of the people while supporting a responsible and well-regulated cannabis program, Stark said.

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S.B. 56 passed the Senate on Feb. 26, and is expected to be referred to the House this week.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
By Alfio Marino, Rachel More and Sarah Marsh

MANNHEIM, Germany (Reuters) -A car drove into a crowd in the western German city of Mannheim on Monday, killing at least two people and injuring 11 others, overshadowing carnival celebrations in the region where police had been on alert for attacks.

Police detained the driver, who appeared to have ploughed intentionally into the crowd given the speed at which he was driving, prosecutors said in an act Interior Minister Nancy Faeser labeled "horror in broad daylight".

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He did not appear to have been politically or religiously motivated, but there were reasons to believe he was psychologically unwell, said Mannheim Chief Public Prosecutor Romeo Schluessler.

Prosecutors have initiated investigative proceedings against the suspect, a 40-year-old German man from the neighbouring state of Rhineland-Palatinate, on two counts of murder and multiple counts of attempted murder.

The suspect has not been questioned yet as he had to undergo medical treatment after shooting himself in the mouth with a blank-firing gun after the attack.

He appeared to be a landscape gardener who lived alone, prosecutors said, adding that they were now investigating his home for clues.

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Security has been a key concern in Germany following a string of violent attacks in recent weeks, including deadly car rammings in Magdeburg in December and in Munich last month, as well as a stabbing in Mannheim in May 2024.

"The incident  like the terrible acts of the past months  serves as a stark reminder: we must do everything possible to prevent such acts," said Germany's likely next leader, Friedrich Merz, whose conservatives won a national election last month.

"Germany must once again become a safe country. We will work with full determination to achieve this."

Messages of solidarity were sent from across Europe.

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"To all the people of Mannheim, especially to all the relatives of the victims of the attack, to the German people. France is at your side," French President Emmanuel Macron wrote on the social media platform X.

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said "attempts to destabilize democratic nations will not prevail".

The two who died were an 83-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man.

NERVOUS CARNIVAL

Police were on high alert for this year's carnival parades after social media accounts linked to the Islamic State militant group called for attacks on the events in Cologne and Nuremberg.

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There did not appear to be a connection between Monday's incident and the carnival celebrations, the interior minister of the state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Thomas Strobl, told reporters. Those festivities culminated on Rose Monday with a number of parades, although not in Mannheim, which held its main event on Sunday.

Rose Monday, the culmination of the annual carnival season celebrated in Germany's mainly Catholic western and southern regions, features parades of floats that often include comical or satirical references to current affairs.

This year's carnival has included floats featuring U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, tech billionaire Elon Musk and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

Dressed in traditional jester costumes and sporting colourful makeup, thousands of partygoers danced through the streets of Cologne, Dusseldorf and other cities in western and southern Germany ahead of the fasting season of Lent.

(Reporting by Alfio Marino in Mannheim and Rachel More, Friederike Heine and Sarah Marsh in Berlin; Additional Reporting by Charlotte Van Campenhout in Paris and Alvise Armellini in Rome; Editing by Andrew Heavens David Gregorio and Sandra Maler)
A rescuer works at the site of a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, March 3, 2025. One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)

JERUSALEM, March 3 (Xinhua) -- One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police.

A knife-wielding man arrived at Merkazit HaMifratz, the central bus station in Haifa, and began stabbing people, the police said in a statement, describing the incident as "a terror attack."

The suspect was shot and killed at the scene, the police said, without providing further details.

Magen David Adom rescue service said medics pronounced the death of a man in his 70s. Three other people -- a man and a woman in their 30s and a 15-year-old boy -- were taken to hospital and were in serious condition. A woman in her 70s sustained moderate injuries, it said.

Israel's state-owned Kan TV reported that police were investigating whether one of the injured was mistakenly shot by gunfire directed at the assailant.

The attack came amid an ongoing Israeli military operation in the occupied West Bank, where dozens have been killed and widespread damage has been reported. Meanwhile, talks have appeared to stall on the second phase of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. 

Rescuers work at the site of a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, March 3, 2025. One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)

Israeli security forces work at the site of a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, March 3, 2025. One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)

Rescuers work at the site of a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, March 3, 2025. One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)

Israeli security forces work at the site of a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, March 3, 2025. One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)

Rescuers transfer the body of a victim at the site of a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa, March 3, 2025. One person was killed and four others were wounded in a stabbing attack in the northern Israeli city of Haifa on Monday morning, said the Israeli police. (David Cohen/JINI via Xinhua)
There were over 100 wildfires in South Carolina Saturday and Sunday, March 1-2, 2025. (Photo courtesy of South Carolina Forestry Commission)

Residents of a Myrtle Beach area community threatened by a weekend wildfire can return home as firefighters begin to get the blaze under control.

The 2,060-acre Carolina Forest fire that led to hundreds of evacuations in Horry County is 30% contained as of Monday morning, according to the State Forestry Commission.

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While the fire covered a lot of acres, no one has been injured and no homes destroyed, according to Horry County Fire Department spokesperson Tony Casey. He said property damage has been minimal, such as melted fences and siding on a house.

After a massive flare up of more than 100 wildfires over the weekend, encompassing thousands of acres, the South Carolina Forestry Commission says the Carolina Forest Fire is one of only three that remain burning.

Were in great shape, Doug Wood, spokesperson for the forestry commission, told the SC Daily Gazette.

More than 175 wildfires burned across Horry, Spartanburg, Oconee, Union and Pickens Counties, impacting more than 4,200 acres, according to the State Fire Marshal. In response, Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency Sunday.

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McMasters declaration came a day after the forestry commission issued a statewide outdoor burn ban.

This State of Emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need, McMaster said in a statement.

Both the ban and the emergency declaration remain in place. Anyone caught burning amid the ban could face criminal charges, according to the governors office.

The Carolina Forest fire comes more than 15 years after a small burn took a turn for the worse in the same region.

In April 2009, a yard debris burn near Conway spread into a wildfire that destroyed 76 homes and did $42 million in property damage across Horry County. Firefighters responded and thought the fire, commonly known as the Highway 31 Fire, had been extinguished but it reignited and went on to cover more than 19,000 acres.

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At any given time, the state may have five to 10 wildfires burning, Wood said. But the scale of the past weekends outburst is something Wood cant recall in recent history.

It hasnt happened in a long time, Wood said.

The Forestry Commission is the lead responder when a wildfire breaks out across 13 million of the states roughly 20 million-acre land mass. With so many fires ablaze at once, it strained the states firefighting capacity, according to the agency.

To combat the flames at Carolina Forest, the state Army National Guard has sent blackhawk helicopters to dump buckets carrying 600 gallons of water. Additionally, the state forest commission, state Department of Natural Resources and the state Emergency Management Division are working alongside numerous local fire departments.

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Every fire department within 50 miles has been out here helping us, Wood said.

Officials have yet to determine the cause of the Carolina Forest fire, as well as the source of other fires that burned over the weekend, Wood said.

But high winds and dry conditions exasperated the situation. Horry County is among the 26 counties statewide that have been dealing with drought conditions since November, Stephen Fastenau, a spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources said in an email.

Rainfall totals for the past three months in the area have been half of whats historically normal for this time of year, according to data from the states climatology office.

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Were hopeful for rain and higher humidity soon to help bring some level of relief, Fastenau wrote.

South Carolinas wildfire season lasts from January to April, with March usually marking the peak.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins plans to visit the Carolinas on Friday to see the areas impacted by wildfires, provided the conditions allow it, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Monday.

Editors note: This article was updated Tuesday, March 4, after state forestry officials increased the size of the Carolina Forest fire following aerial mapping.
"I've had my youth, and I know you must take away my middle years, but please leave me my old age. Please leave a small light at the end of the tunnel." In 2015, with his sentencing hearing looming, Ross Ulbricht begged for a glimmer of hope. Today, at age 40, he is free.

On January 21, one day into his second term, President Donald Trump granted a full pardon to Ulbricht, the founder of the Silk Road online marketplace. He was 11 years into a double life sentence without the possibility of parole after being convicted on charges connected to commerce on the dark web platform, including drug trafficking, computer hacking, and money laundering. Notably, he was not convicted of actually selling drugs himself.

By punishing Ulbricht as if he personally distributed narcotics, the government set a dangerous precedent for internet platforms and personal liability in the digital age. Pressure to hold platform operators liable for everything from misinformation to sex work has grown in the past decade as Ulbricht and his supportersespecially those in the libertarian and cryptocurrency communitiesfought for his freedom. Ulbricht has long served as a warning, a caged canary in the coal mine.

Ulbricht spent over a year in federal custody before his trial, during which prosecutors accused him not only of operating Silk Road but also of plotting violence against those who crossed him. Although a separate indictment in Maryland charged him with "attempted witness murder," those charges were quietly dropped after his conviction. Critics, including Reason's Brian Doherty, argue the government used these murder allegations as a tactic to prejudice both the court and the public, leaving a lasting impression even without enough evidence for a conviction. This layering of extreme charges as a negotiating tactic and leverage for the government is extremely common, and too often goes unremarked in less salacious cases.

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For years, the prisoner's mother, Lyn Ulbricht, has been his most passionate advocate. "He's staying strong, but it's very tough to keep that sense of who you are. I think people ultimately can be crushed by that," she told me when I spoke with her for a 2018 Reason interview about his life in prison and his lengthy appeals process.

The severity of Ulbricht's sentence has long been a subject of outrage. Judge Katherine Forrest imposed a grotesquely disproportionate sentence, particularly given that Ulbricht was a first-time offender convicted of nonviolent crimes.

The case against Ulbricht was not just about crime and punishmentit was about power. Forrest called Silk Road "terribly destructive to our social fabric," and offered this critique: "It wasn't a world of ultimate freedom. It was a world of laws that you created, they were your laws. It is fictional to think of Silk Road as some place of freedom." But a marketplace governed by its own rules isn't the same as a state, as Ulbricht knew well. He certainly never held the power to do to others what the U.S. government did to him.

While the Silk Road prosecution was framed as a necessary crackdown on illicit online markets and the judge depicted the harsh sentence as a noble expression of the rule of law, the government's handling of the case was riddled with misconduct. Two federal agents involved in the investigation, Carl Mark Force IV of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Shaun Bridges of the Secret Service, were later convicted of stealing huge amounts of bitcoin from Silk Road during the investigation. These agents not only embezzled funds but also manipulated the case from the insideundermining the integrity of the prosecution.

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There were also serious concerns about due process. Ulbricht's defense team was prevented from presenting crucial evidence, including alternative suspects for the identity of "Dread Pirate Roberts," the pseudonym used by Silk Road's operator.Many believe Ulbricht was not the sole person behind the platform and that others who operated under the same name were never prosecuted.

The government's response to discussions surrounding Ulbricht's case also raised free speech concerns. In 2015, Reason received a subpoena demanding the records of individuals who had posted critical comments about Forrest's sentencing of Ulbricht. Shortly thereafter, a gag order was issued, prohibiting Reason from discussing the matter or even acknowledging the existence of the subpoena for two weeks until the clearly unconstitutional order was vacated, an obvious attempt to silence discourse about Ulbricht's mistreatment at the hands of the law.

It was that mistreatment that Trump highlighted in his announcement of the pardon. "The scum that worked to convict him were some of the same lunatics who were involved in the modern day weaponization of government against me," the president posted on Truth Social. Trump has also called for the death penalty for drug dealers, so his messages on prohibition are mixed, to say the least. But clearly he identifies with Ulbricht on some level.

Critics of the pardon argue that Silk Road facilitated the sale of dangerous drugs, potentially leading to harm or even death among users. While it's undeniable that illegal substances were sold on the platform, it is essential to place this issue within the broader context of the failed war on drugsand on Ulbricht's intentions, which were clearly driven by the goal of harm reduction.

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Prohibition has historically driven drug markets underground, where safety is compromised and violence is rampant. By contrast, Silk Road's marketplace introduced harm-reduction mechanisms absent in traditional street-level drug markets. Buyers could leave reviews, rate vendors, and ensure they were getting what they paid fora level of transparency unheard of in the offline illicit drug trade.

In this sense, Silk Road was more akin to a regulated marketplace than the chaotic and often violent black market it sought to replace. But Forrest harshly rejected such arguments. "Harm reduction focused on the user is missing the point," she wrote, chiding Ulbricht for making "a privileged argument." Whether one sees Ulbricht's actions through the lens of naive idealism or dangerous recklessness, it is clear that his prosecution was about more than just drug sales. It was about crushing an alternative model of economic organization.

Silk Road was arguably the first real test of bitcoin as a medium of exchange, and while the subsequent decade has not played out precisely as the most bullish crypto enthusiasts hoped, it has certainly become clear that bitcoin is good for much more than just drug deals. (Reason even pays writers in bitcoin from time to time.)

Ross Ulbricht's release does not erase the years he spent behind bars or the precedent his case set for digital marketplaces, but it is a rare moment of reprieve in an era of relentless government expansion. It is also a victory for the Libertarian Party, which pushed hard for his release since his conviction and especially during the final stretch of Trump's presidential run.

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In the evolving landscape of digital commerce, personal liberty, and criminal justice, Ulbricht's case remains a stark reminder of the risks posed by unchecked prosecutorial power and the need to defend freedomeven for those who make controversial choices.

In the letter he wrote before his sentencing, Ulbricht argued that any sentence short of life without parole would give him "an excuse to stay healthy, an excuse to dream of better days ahead, and a chance to redeem myself in the free world before I meet my maker." At last, he has that chance.

The post The Case Against Ross Ulbricht Was About Government Power appeared first on Reason.com.
Casey Anthony, the Florida mother acquitted in 2011 of the death of her 2-year-old daughter, Caylee Marie, posted a series of TikTok videos Saturday touting a new blog.

Anthony, 38, posted her first TikTok video on March 1, in which she promoted her Substack, an online platform where creators can publish newsletters. She said she intends to reintroduce herself as a legal advocate and a researcher.

This is my first of probably many recordings on a series that Im starting, Anthony said in the three-minute video. I am a legal advocate. I am a researcher. Ive been in the legal field since 2011, and in this capacity I feel that its necessary  if Im going to continue to operate appropriately as a legal advocate  that I start to advocate for myself and also advocate for my daughter.

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Since posting the TikTok, she had over 1 million views and 36,000 followers as of Monday.

She mentioned her parents, George and Cindy Anthony, with whom she is estranged. Anthony previously accused her father of being the reason her daughter is dead, but said in the video Saturday that her new presence on social media  which she now sees as a blessing rather than "the curse it has been since 2008"  "is not about them."

What happened to Casey's daughter, Caylee Anthony?

Anthony made national headlines after the death of her daughter in 2008, which still remains unsolved.

Many watched her murder trial in Orlando, which began May 24, 2011.

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Anthony was acquitted of the murder charges after more than 10 hours of deliberation on July 5, 2011. She was convicted of four misdemeanor counts of giving false information to a law enforcement officer.

During the trial, prosecutors argued Anthony  who failed to report her daughter missing for a month  suffocated her by wrapping duct tape around her head and said she kept the body in the car until dumping it in the woods near her Florida home.

Anthony's defense team argued Caylee Marie drowned in an above-ground swimming pool and the girl's grandparents, who reported her missing on July 15, 2008, tried to cover it up. The defense also said Anthony was abused by her father and brother.

In 2009, her attorney, Jose Baez, hired Port St. Lucie private investigator Jeremiah "Jerry" Lyons.

Did Casey Anthony live in Port St. Lucie?

After the trial, Anthony was rumored to be living on the Treasure Coast, which TCPalm has not independently confirmed. There were unconfirmed reports of her living in Palm City and Port St. Lucie, and people shared unconfirmed reports on social media of seeing her around the area.

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"She was dead in my face," Port St. Lucie resident Chrissandra Jennings told TCPalm in 2012, saying she saw Anthony driving a white car and yelling into a cellphone at the intersection of Darwin and Port St. Lucie boulevards on Sept. 20, 2011. "She had her hair in a bun and it looked like it was highlighted."

In January 2012, CBS News Miami and other media outlets gathered at Cross Church of Palm City because Anthony was rumored to be living in a house next door. The media reported seeing someone they thought was her walk by a window, sporting a blonde bob haircut.

Did Casey Anthony live in West Palm Beach?

Anthony moved to West Palm Beach in the wake of her criminal trial and was spotted occasionally at O'Shea's Irish Pub downtown and once at an anti-Trump rally near Mar-a-Lago in 2017. She lived in the home of private detective Pat McKenna, for whom she worked and who was a consultant on her trial.

McKenna, the private eye who unearthed the Fuhrman tapes during the O.J. Simpson trial, told The Palm Beach Post in the wake of Anthony's acquittal: "Yeah, shes a liar. Yeah, shes disturbed. She may be a very disturbed young woman, but she aint no murderer. She loved that baby. I think the jury saw that this kid didnt commit first-degree murder.

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Public records indicate Anthony moved from West Palm Beach to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, in 2024.

Gianna Montesano is TCPalms trending reporter. You can contact her at gianna.montesano@tcpalm.com, 772-409-1429, or follow her on X @gonthescene.

Hannah Phillips is a journalist covering public safety and criminal justice at The Palm Beach Post. You can reach her at hphillips@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Casey Anthony joins TikTok, Substack for daughter Caylee Anthony
(WKBN)  A raw cat food is being recalled for a possible risk of bird flu.

The Wild Coast LLC frozen product  16 oz. and 24 oz. frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats  was sold in Washington State and Oregon.

The affected lots are #22660, #22653, #22641, #22639, #22672 and #22664 with a Best Buy date of December 25. The recall also includes lots #22660 and #22664 with similar Best Buy dates.

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Symptoms of bird flu in pets include fever, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, tremors, stiff body movements, and lack of coordination. Contact your veterinarian if your pet is experiencing these symptoms.

No human infections of bird flu have been identified among people handling raw pet food products, but people can become infected if the virus gets into a persons eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash your hands after handling the product and sanitize contact surfaces.

For more information, contact Wild Coast Raw at info@wildcoastraw.com or (360) 591-3543 between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PST.

For updates on human and animal bird flu cases across the U.S., visit this CDC page.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) is altering its service for Michigan State University`s spring break.

Service changes will begin on March 3 and run through March 9.

Spartan Service operating on MSU`s campus will change as follows:

Routes 34, 35, 36 and Lot Link: Late-night service concludes for the week between 2 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. Monday, March 3.

Route 32 Commuter Lot/Snyder Hall/Clinical Center: The route will operate on weekdays, 7 a.m. to 7:25 p.m., at a reduced frequency during the break. Buses will depart the MSU-CTC/Ramp 1 every 30 minutes rather than every 15 minutes.

Routes 30, 31, 33-36, 38, 39, Lot Link and Night Owl: These services do not operate on MSU`s campus during the break.

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These service changes will also affect those not on Michigan State Universitys campus.

Service changes will affect the following routes during the break:

Route 1 Downtown Lansing/Meridian Mall: Weekday departures from bus stops along downtown Lansing`s Capitol Loop will continue to occur up to eight minutes later than usual Monday through Friday evening.

Route 20 South Harrison/Jolly/Dunckel: The route will travel into Spartan Village during the break. Buses will travel into the MSU-CTC/Ramp 1 and serve the Shaw and Farm boarding center. Weekend buses will depart some stops up to five minutes earlier.

Route 22 MSU/Haslett/Okemos and Route 23 MSU/Okemos/Haslett. Both routes will travel into the MSU-CTC/Ramp 1 and serve the Shaw and Farm boarding center.

Route 26 Abbot/Chandler: Weekday service will operate on a 45-minute frequency throughout each day and conclude at 7:15 p.m. Saturday service ends at 7:15 p.m. There is no change in Sunday service.

Spartan Service will resume Monday, March 10, 2025.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
LOUDOUN COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers seized over $52,000 in unreported cash during two separate interactions at the Washington Dulles International Airport last week.

The first incident happened on Monday, Feb. 24, when a CBP currency detector dog alerted to a passengers carry-on bag. The passenger, a U.S. citizen, was traveling to Brussels, Belgium, and told officers that he had $8,000 in his bag.

Power restored at BWI after outage disrupts flights, security screenings

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When asked to write down how much money he had, he changed the amount to $30,000. During an examination, CBP officers discovered $33,922 inside the bag.

The next day, authorities seized $18,750 in unreported currency from another U.S. citizen traveling to Islamabad, Pakistan. The man initially told officers that he had $14,200.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized over $52,000 in unreported currency during the week starting February 23, 2025, at Washington Dulles International Airport. Travelers may travel with as much currency as they like; however, federal law requires travelers to report amounts greater than $10,000 to a CBP officer. (CBP Photo/Handout)

These seizures should be a reminder to all travelers, especially for those planning spring break trips over the next few weeks, of the importance of truthfully answering CBP officers during international departure and arrival inspections, said Christine Waugh, CBPs Area Port Director for the Area Port of Washington, D.C.

Federal workers are heroes: Local unions show support for federal employees amid layoffs

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According to U.S. Customs, there is no limit to how much money travelers can bring in and out of the United States.

However, federal law requires travelers to report if they carrying $10,000 or more to a CBP officer or complete the U.S. Treasury Department Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments.

Officials said travelers who lie, verbally or on a written declaration, about how much money is in their possession risk consequences and could have their money taken. Travelers can also face potential criminal prosecution for bulk currency smuggling.

During fiscal year 2023, CBP officers and agents seized an average of $182,998 in unreported or illicit currency every day along the nations borders.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
SAN ANGELO, Texas (Concho Valley Homepage)  The Coke County Sheriffs Office has issued a scam alert to the public after learning that an individual has begun posing as the agencys sheriff and requesting money for apprehending criminals.

CCSO stated that a citizen reported on March 3 that they had received multiple phone calls from a gentleman identifying himself as Mikel Anderson, Sheriff of Coke County. This man was allegedly offering large sums of money after paying $500 to him for apprehending a known criminal.

TGSO warns of two more scams

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The current sheriff of the Coke County Sheriffs Office is Billy Williams. Williams became the agencys sheriff on Jan. 1.

This is an obvious scam and please do not go for it! CCSO said.

CCSO said that its members would never ask citizens for money from a person directly for apprehending criminals. It advised residents to hang up should they receive a call in which a purported sheriffs office member does so.

The Tom Green County Sheriffs Office also reported a phone scam on Feb. 26 in which the caller claims to be a worker of the Tom Green County Detention Center and advises the target that a loved one will be released if they pay a sum of money for an ankle monitor. The sheriffs office stated that sums asked for in these scams have ranged from $2,000 to $9,000.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ConchoValleyHomepage.com.
The Caddo Parish Civil Rights Heritage Trail project is expanding its scope with a new series designed to help historic villages, towns, neighborhoods, and/or cities in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, investigate three different versions of their communities: the past, the present, and the future. Team members include Dr. Gary Joiner, Mik Barnes, Jaclyn Tripp, Dr. Laura Meiki, Dr. Jolivette Anderson-Douong, Dr. Amy Rosner, Dr. Rolonda Teal, and Brenton Metzler.

The team is now focusing on the history of the Cedar Grove neighborhood.

In the first article in the series on Cedar Grove, Dr. Gary Joiner (Professor of History at LSU Shreveport) showed us how a social movement in 1911 Shreveport drastically changed Cedar Grove.

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In the second article of the series, we learned how Shreveport became a hub for automobile production in the early days of the horseless carriage.

The third article of the series examined how manufacturing changed in Cedar Grove after automobile production ended.

For the fourth article in our series on Cedar Grove, Dr. Gary Joiner takes readers back to 1905-1910, when Cedar Grove sprung up in Caddo Parish, Louisiana, as a small oil boom town.

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  The Cedar Grove neighborhood in modern-day Shreveport was once a little oil boom town that sprang up overnight.

Boom towns like Oil City and Trees City (from the previous timber boom) sprang up quickly in North Caddo Parish. Cedar Grove is one of those oil boom towns.

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Cedar Grove might have remained a pastoral setting during the early 1900s, and Caddo Parish may also have seen slow, steady economic growth if oil and gas deposits had not been discovered twenty miles north of Shreveport near Caddo Lake in 1905.

Clipping from The Shreveport Journal, June 25, 1909, pp. 6, discusses the Caddo Lake oil boom in the early 1900s.

Oil from Cedar Grove was transported through pipelines beginning in 1910. Former timber railroads now serviced oil companies. Refineries sprang up to process the oil and gas into useable products.

Clipping from The (Shreveport) Times, Jan. 28, 1907, pp. 3, shows talks being initiated in 1907 about a great pipeline that would take natural gas from Caddo to Dallas.

Pipelines and railroads revolutionized the oil and gas businessaccess to transportation allowed oil fields to be separated from processing centers. Two early refining centers in Shreveport were located in Anderson Island and Cedar Grove.

This clipping from The (Shreveport) Times, July 30, 1910, pp. 9, refers to one of the first oil refineries in the Shreveport area.

Several wealthy Shreveporters, some owners of early Cedar Grove industries, purchased most of the remaining Pickens land in 1910. Among them were former Louisiana governor Newton Crain Blanchard, real estate developer J.B. Atkins, Lee Emmett Thomas, Wesley E. Wheless, and John D. Wilkinson.

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Shreveport had friendly relations with Cedar Grove. The city extended street car service to its near neighbor, separated by five miles of mostly undeveloped land. While workers in Cedar Grove refineries and factories mostly lived there, owners and managers typically lived in Shreveport.

Clipping from The (Shreveport) Times, Oct. 20, 1915, pp. 8, shows George J. DArtois was the superintendent of the Cado Oil refinery in 1915.

Cedar Grove had many growth opportunities. The topography of the northwestern portion was flat, negating the need to move mountains of soil. The railroad tracks (now part of the main trunk line of the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad) bisected the town east and West.

Early oil companies eyed the town as a favorable location for refineries and associated factories. With an influx of industrial companies in Cedar Grove, lumber mills were needed to build the factories and homes.

Cedar Grove became a nexus of the industry. Pipelines brought gas to run the local factories. Refined oil and petroleum products were loaded on railroad tank cars destined for larger markets. Among the early petroleum-related refineries were the DArtois Refining Company, which produced a variety of oils and grease products, Western Carbon, McNutt Carbon, Rogers Refining, and Louisiana Fuel and Gas. Several of these were merged into the more significant Crystal Oil and Refining Company.

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The establishing of another refinery in the Shreveport, La., district is noted as follows by the Shreveport News: Ground will be broken at once, it was announced yesterday, for the $150,000 plant of the Marine Oil and Refining company at Cedar Grove, the site to cover 10 acres. The plant will be installed at a cost of $150,000 and the DArtois process for the running of lubricating oils without a wax plant will be used. This, according tot he announcement, will cut the price of making high grade lubricants in half. Low grade Caddo oil will be used, we read in Vol. XXIINo. 1 of the Apr., 1917, pp. 24 of The Petroleum Gazette from Titusville, Pennsylvania.

In Shreveport Chronicles: Profiles From Louisianas Port City, by Eric J. Brock, published by The History Press in Charleston, South Carolina in 2009, we learn that George DArtois, the founder of the DArtois Refining Company, was the grandfather of George DArtois, the commissioner of public safety during Shreveports civil rights movement.

Sources:

Shreveport Chronicles: Profiles From Louisianas Port City, by Eric J. Brock, published by The History Press in Charleston, South Carolina, 2009

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The Petroleum Gazette, Titusville, Pennsylvania, Vol. XXIINo. 1, Apr., 1917, pp. 24

The (Shreveport) Times, Oct. 20, 1915, pp. 8

The (Shreveport) Times, July 30, 1910, pp. 9

The (Shreveport) Times, Jan. 28, 1907, pp. 3

The Shreveport Journal, June 25, 1909, pp. 6

Eric J. Brock, Cedar Grove Was First a Town On Its Own, Presence of the Past, Shreveport Journal, February 21, 1998.

Louisiana Oil and Gas Museum, Oil City, Louisiana. https://aoghs.org/energy-education-resources/louisiana-oil-and-gas-museum/

Eric J. Brock, Currently A Standing Symbol of Urban Decay, Cedar Grove Was Once a Booming Industrial Town, Presence of the Past, Shreveport Journal, March 19, 1994.

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Brueggerhoffs Shreveport City Directory 1917, R.L. Polk & Co., Dallas, Texas; Brock, Currently A Standing Symbol.

Brock, Currently A Standing Symbol.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
People look at a Xiaomi SU7 Ultra during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

BARCELONA, Spain, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity.

The four-day event, hosted by the GSMA at the Fira Gran Via exhibition center, is themed "Converge, Connect, Create," emphasizing the fusion of mobile and AI-driven technologies.

Mats Granryd, director general of the GSMA, highlighted the rapid global adoption of 5G, noting that connections have reached 2 billion, making it the fastest-growing mobile generation to date. "Now it's time to stamp out the barriers and press the accelerator for growth," he said.

The GSMA also released its Mobile Economy Report 2025, which revealed that mobile technologies and services contributed 5.8 percent of global GDP in 2024, amounting to 6.5 trillion U.S. dollars. That figure is projected to reach 11 trillion dollars, or 8.4 percent of GDP, by 2030, driven by the expansion of 5G, IoT, and AI.

MWC 2025 has drawn more than 2,800 exhibitors and 1,200 speakers, with organizers expecting over 100,000 attendees. More than 300 Chinese firms, including China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom, Huawei, ZTE, Lenovo, and Xiaomi, are showcasing their latest innovations. 

A visitor interacts with a robot hand during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

People try on VR headsets during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A man takes photos of smartphones during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A visitor interacts with a robot hand during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Samsung's Project Moohan headsets are on display during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

A man views a HUAWEI's tri-fold smartphone during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

People watch a robotic dog during the 2025 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, on March 3, 2025. The 2025 Mobile World Congress (MWC) opened here on Monday, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and technology innovators to explore advancements in 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced connectivity. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)
Mar. 3Central State University is investigating an incident that happen between a male student and a campus police officer Saturday evening in a residence hall.

The university described the event as an "unfortunate incident" in a short release to the media and did not release additional information.

"The university takes this matter seriously. The incident is the subject of an ongoing investigation, and no further details can be provided at this time," the university said.

The officer involved in the incident will be off duty until further notice, according to the university. University officials have been in touch with the student, who returned to his residence hall shortly after the incident.
Mar. 3A former engineer with SpaceX who is running to unseat Sen. Susan Collins said the Republican lawmaker is not doing enough to hold Elon Musk accountable for the indiscriminate way he is cutting government agencies and federal spending.

"What I'm most concerned about is there has been zero oversight from the Senate committee, specifically from Susan Collins, and they almost seem paralyzed or afraid to protect their constituents and that has me really concerned," said Rench, a 37-year-old Waterboro resident who has registered as an independent candidate for Collins' U.S. Senate seat.

Rench, who worked for Musk's space technology company, said he believes reducing federal spending should be done "with a scalpel, not a chainsaw." Rench criticized his former boss' approach to slashing government spending and the lack of oversight and accountability from Congress, especially Collins, the 72-year-old chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee.

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"She has the ability to subpoena people and ask questions  on live television if she wants to," Rench said. "She has a lot more power, but she's afraid to use it. What's the point of having a powerful state senator if she's not actually doing everything she can to protect her constituents?"

Collins was asked Thursday by the Press Herald whether she would bring in Musk or other members of his team, known as the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, to testify before the appropriations committee. Collins said she hadn't considered doing so.

However, she said she plans to ask all department heads to come before the appropriations committee, and one of the lines of questioning would be how DOGE is impacting their departments, and whether DOGE is interfering with how they want to run them.

Collins spokesperson Blake Kernan responded to Rench's criticisms Friday by saying Collins is providing meaningful oversight through communications with Trump officials, pointing to her efforts to fight the administration's cuts to federal grants for medical research, cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs, and tariffs on Canadian products.

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"Mr. Rench seems focused only on oversight through 'live television' and completely ignores the actual work that the Senate does," Kernan said. "Oversight doesn't mean just sending press releases and doing cable television interviews. It includes direct contact and questioning of decision-makers."

"Senator Collins has advocated on many issues directly with the vice president and the president's chief of staff, as well as many Cabinet secretaries and nominees," she said.

"Hearings are an important part of the oversight function. The Senate Appropriations Committee will soon begin a series of subcommittee hearings to evaluate spending requests and reductions as well as to assess compliance with congressional intent and enacted laws," Kernan said.

Rench talked about his background and his concerns in an interview with the Press Herald Friday before launching a campaign website and social media page for his longshot bid to unseat Collins in 2026.

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He was a college student living in Orlando when he saw an animated video of a rocket landing on earth. He knew right then that he wanted to join the team at SpaceX, a private company owned and operated by Musk, the billionaire who is now leading President Donald Trump's controversial charge to slash the federal government and spending.

Rench said he has seen "both sides of (Musk)  the good and bad." He's proud of SpaceX, saying working there was "the best, most crazy time" of his life, but he declined to elaborate about his personal interactions with the man who is upending the federal government.

"It's not about him," he said. "It's about the people of Maine."

A former Democrat who grew up in southern Maine, Rench said he decided to run because he doesn't trust Collins to defend a woman's right to make her own health care decisions and because his work as a control system engineer has given him unique talents to solve complex problems by breaking them down and looking at things differently.

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Rench knows he's running an uphill battle in trying to unseat Collins, especially without the financial and organizational support of a major political party. However, he believes it's important to get big money out of politics, pointing to Musk's role in the Trump administration after spending more than $270 million to help get Trump elected last fall.

"I want to prove that a person like me, who has good intentions, who is a good person, who is decently well-known in the community, can run a formidable campaign without a lot of money if they make the right decisions," he said. "I think we need to show that to the American people. You don't need big money to win an election. I know that may be a hill that I die on. However, I think it's an important hill that we at least need to test."

So far, only one other candidate besides Rench has filed papers to challenge Collins in 2026.

Natasha Alcala, a Madawaska Democrat, is the first person in her party to file paperwork. Both Alcala and Rench still need to collect signatures before appearing on the ballot.

Alcala also filed papers to challenge Sen. Angus King last year, but never qualified for the ballot.

Staff Writer Joe Lawlor contributed to this report.

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  Three brothers have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a $2.8 million COVID fraud scheme, these brothers operate a string of restaurants in the Charleston area.

William Chan, 40, and Siu Chan, 32, both of Georgia, have pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy. The third brother, Ka Ho Chan, 33, who also resides in Georgia, pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud.

Officials say evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that beginning in March 2020, the C Chan brothers applied Paycheck Protect Program (PPP) and Emergency Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) funds using false representations and fraudulent documentation.

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Evidence for William and Siu Chan revealed that at least 22 PPP and EIDL loans were applied for and received totaling more than $2.5 million. According to the U.S. Attorneys Office, a handful of the loans applied for by William and Siu were legitimate applications but the funds were not used for legitimate business purposes once funded.

Ka Ha Chan entered a plea regarding a separate charge of wire fraud connected to an EIDL loan and grant he received. In his plea agreement, he agreed to a restitution amount between $300,000 and $350,000, which is based on the fraudulent loan proceeds obtained through applications submitted by his brothers during their conspiracy.

Officials say the evidence revealed that all the funds received by Ka Ho, through his own wire fraud scheme, and the funds he received from his brothers were not used for legitimate business purposes and were used for personal expenses.

William Chan was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.

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Siu Chan was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.

Ka Ho Chan was sentenced to 12 months and one day imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision.

There is no parole in the federal system. Officials report the total amount of fraudulent loans and misuse of EIDL and PPP loan funds during sentencing exceeded $2.8 million. The outstanding restitution owed in the amount of $1,268,386.50 was ordered to be payed by the brothers.

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CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)  Charleston Southern University has purchased a flight school to provide a high-quality flight training experience for its aeronautics program.

Charleston Southern purchased Chucktown Flight Training, LLC DBA Carolina Sky Flight Training, a local group based in Summerville.

University officials say CSU began its partnership with the flight school back in 2021 to offer CSUs inaugural professional pilot degree, the only 4-year collegiate program in South Carolina.

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This is a historic and transformative moment in the life of our university, said CSU President B. Keith Faulkner. This acquisition allows us to reach greater heights and excellence in our education of the next generation of pilots and managers. Whether they dream of flying for commercial airlines, service in Air Force or Space Force, or using their talents to serve in missions.

The CSU aeronautics program was started less than four years ago with 19 students and has grown to more than 150 students, according to the university.

As a result of growing, CSU has committed to a multi-million dollar investment in the aeronautics program for 2025.

In addition to the flight school, the university is providing a centralized location for the aeronautics faculty and staff in its second construction phase for the science and engineering building this summer. Officials say a new flight simulation lab will also be installed in that space.

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This acquisition ensures that the university will be able to provide stellar training for new pilots, as well as for others interested in avionics as a future career, said CSU Board Chair Dean Murphy. As a university, we remain committed to offering educational opportunities which will afford our graduates with immediate employment opportunities. Exciting times to be a Buc!

The acquisition will also bring opportunities to the veterans enrolled at CSU. Officials say veterans will soon be able to apply U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Post 9/11 benefits to private pilot flight training.

Owning the flight school also makes the professional pilot program eligible to be considered for approval to enroll international students through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program certification from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

CSU officials said they are working with Congress for additional equipment funding that will increase the training pipeline capacity and enhance the degree program experience.

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Content Warning: This article mentions severe neglect leading to death; reader discretion is advised.

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  A husband has been sentenced for reportedly neglecting his wife for months, leading to her death in 2021, the Mecklenburg County District Attorneys Office reports.

Louis Kornhaber, 70, was found guilty Friday, Feb. 28, of second-degree murder and neglect of a disabled or elder adult resulting in serious physical injury. This was in connection with the death of his wife of 40 years, Bonnie Kornhaber.

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On Oct. 6, 2020, Bonnie came home after a hospital stay because of a medical condition that caused her to be wheelchair bound. Officials say her husband tied her to the wheelchair with a belt, but that she fell out of the chair and onto the floor, where she stayed for 68 months.

Louis did not call 911 for help, allegedly telling detectives that he and Bonnie were embarrassed by the state of their house.

Why did it happen?: Family of Clover cyclist seeks answers following his death

On June 4, 2021, Bonnie told Louis she was struggling to breathe. According to authorities, Louis went to the den to watch television for several hours. After some time, he called 911, saying Bonnie was unresponsive.

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First responders say they found Bonnie dead, covered in her own waste, lying in trash and surrounded by spoiled food in a hoarder house situation. She had extensive sores with insects in many of her open bed sores.

Louis was arrested a few weeks later. On Monday, Feb. 24, 2025, a jury trial began, resulting in the conviction. Louis was sentenced to between 7 years, 10 months and 10 years, 5 months.

If you believe an adult may be suffering abuse, neglect, or exploitation, call the Mecklenburg County Department of Social Services Adult Protective Services at 704-336-2273 (CARE).

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In front of Chicagos iconic Water Tower, hundreds gathered Sunday afternoon in thunderous support of democracy in war-torn Ukraine  two days after President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance confronted the Eastern European nations president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, over plans for peace in a tense televised meeting.

Politicians and leaders from around the country and the world have since spoken out, some in criticism of the administrations rough reception and others in criticism of Zelenskyys leadership.

What an amazing crowd this is, to come together on such short notice. But it reflects whats going on across America, said U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin at the rally. This is a reaction not just to what happened in the Oval Office.  It is a reaction by the people in this country to the notion that we are going to abandon Ukraine and embrace (Russian President) Vladimir Putin. That is never going to happen.

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The Illinois Democrat said that if Trump withdrew the United States from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, it would be the most disastrous development in American foreign policy since World War II. The alliance, he added, is not only designed to stop another global war but also to protect European countries.

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Do we have any friends from Poland in the audience? he asked, eliciting hoots and hollers from some in the crowd. I know we have friends from Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia and so many other countries. They are dependent on NATO for their survival. We understand that if Putin is given a chance, he will invade other countries as well.

During the Friday meeting at the Oval Office, a reporter asked Zelenskyy: Why dont you wear a suit?

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Since Russias full-scale invasion began in 2022, the Ukrainian leader has opted for more casual, military-style outfits for important meetings with other politicians, attire he has said signals solidarity with his countrys troops on the frontlines of the war.

I will wear kostyum, Zelenskyy said Friday, using a Ukrainian word for suit, after this war will finish.

On Sunday, Chicago protesters latched onto the exchange as a common theme. Some of them had dressed up and were holding signs that read: Will Russia stop killing Ukrainians if we all wear suits?

At the White House on Friday, Vance also admonished Zelenskyy for not expressing gratitude to the United States. The interaction has become a sticking point for those criticizing the Trump administration.

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In the four visits (to Ukraine) and seven times Ive met with President Zelenskyy, in the 50 times Ive met with the military and leaders of the parliament, they have always begun with: Thank you,' U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley, a Chicago Democrat, said at Sundays rally. What I didnt see  was the president of the United States in the clown show at the Oval Office begin by saying: Thank you for fighting for democracy.'

Quigley said all Americans should care about the issue as the world has become fundamentally different and less safe than it was a few weeks ago. Our welfare is dependent on the welfare of nations across the world, he added.

Also present at the rally, U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez, a Chicago Democrat, echoed the sentiment of solidarity.

When Ukraine is under attack, all of us are under attack, she said. As were standing here, just on the other side of Michigan Avenue, I want you to look at each other because this is what solidarity, this is what resistance for democracy looks like.

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After the kickoff gathering downtown, the growing crowd marched down Michigan Avenue to cheers from passersby and tourists and honks from cars before turning west on Madison Street and heading to Daley Plaza.

Mariya Dmytriv-Kapeniak, president of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of Americas Illinois Division, urged rallygoers to demand that their representatives in Washington support Ukraine.

If Washington does something that is shameful, it is our shame to share. So please do not be afraid to speak up, Dmytriv-Kapeniak said.

Thank you, everyone, she said, her words echoing across the plaza. The crowd, now more than a thousand people, erupted in cheers and applause.

adperez@chicagotribune.com
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  A child is hospitalized after being attacked by two dogs Sunday afternoon in the North Linden section of Columbus, according to police.

The dog attack happened on the 3500 block of Hiawatha Street.

The child  a boy under 10  was taken to a local hospital in extremely critical condition by one of the responding officers, according to Columbus Police Sgt. Joseph Albert.

Franklin County deputy arrested for OVI in Delaware County

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Columbus police said both dogs were shot; one was killed and the other is now in the possession of animal control.

Columbus animal control is investigating the incident. According to Albert, the dogs have been running loose from a house in the area; the dogs do not belong to the victims family.

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Mar. 2Youth and Family Outreach, a day care located in a historic red-doored church on Cumberland Avenue in Portland, has been fully staffed for four straight months  the longest streak in three years.

According to Executive Director Camelia Babson-Haley, the child care facility has seen constant staff turnover since the pandemic, a problem that was just beginning to steady thanks to boosts to a state-funded stipend program that gave early childhood workers an extra $240 to $540 per month on top of their regular pay.

"2022, 2023, 2024 were just stunning, and just knocked us on our knees," Babson-Haley said last week. "And part of the reason that we're beginning to stabilize is because of those wage supplements."

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But Gov. Janet Mills is looking to cut that stipend program in half as part of her biennial budget proposal, citing an unsustainable level of funding.

Child care facilities like Youth and Family have struggled for years amid a high demand for services, and difficulty in retaining teachers in positions that often pay the same as less-demanding jobs.

A year ago, Babson-Haley told the Press Herald that the stipend had allowed her to raise her minimum hourly wage from $12 to $16, and created hope for a stable workforce. But now, she says, it's unlikely that would continue if the stipends are reduced.

A FRAGILE INDUSTRY

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Maine's Department of Health and Human Services began offering a $200 monthly stipend to child care workers in 2021 at the direction of the governor, using federal pandemic aid. The department continued the program with state funding in 2022, and the Legislature increased those stipends last year to between $275 and $625, depending on education and experience, then decreased the range to $240 to $540 over the summer because so many people became eligible. As of last April, more than 7,400 workers were receiving the supplements.

But amid a promised budget crunch, Mills is proposing that Maine return the stipends back to the 2022 funding level.

Lindsay Hammes, a spokesperson for DHHS, said the governor has been worried about the sustainability of the program since the Legislature doubled the stipends last year.

"At the time, the administration expressed concern over the changes  namely that the Legislature would be raising the expectations for family and child care workers that, financially, the state would not be able to sustain, which has proven to be true," Hammes said in an email.

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She said the program now costs $30 million annually.

"The Governor does not like having to propose these changes. As the parent to five stepdaughters, she recognizes the value of child care, both for children and their parents, and her administration has worked hard to expand access to child care by delivering grants through her Jobs Plan to build out more child care centers," Hammes said. "Unfortunately, in a tough budget cycle, tough decisions have to be made and we believe it is important to return the program to a sustainable level of spending, as we initially had, so that we can continue it far into the future."

But child care workers say the latest increase in stipends had just allowed the industry to get stabilized, and cuts could set them back and create negative ripple effects in the state's economy.

The Legislature's Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee received more than 100 pieces of written testimony in opposition when it held a public hearing earlier this week, where about 40 people also spoke against the proposal.

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"Reliable, affordable child care is not a luxury  it's a fundamental building block for a thriving workforce. The educators who provide child care are the unsung heroes of the economy," said Morgan Hart Tolin, a co-executive director of the Maine Association for the Education of Young Children, testifying on behalf of a group of day care operators.

"But right now, we are dangerously close to losing more of those educators. The governor's proposed $15 million annual cut to the salary supplement program is a direct threat to an already fragile industry."

NEWLY STABLE FOOTING

Babson-Haley has spent 25 years as the executive director of the Portland day care center, which offers services for children up to age 5, including pre-K. The center has 62 students, 60% of whom come from low-income families. At full staffing, they have 15 employees, plus five Portland Public Schools staff for the pre-K program.

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"In 2024, we had seven resignations and five new hires," she said Tuesday. "The constant revolving door is feeling like it's just starting to stabilize a little bit."

Babson-Haley said she can't envision cutting back wages  which currently start at $18 an hour for teachers. Instead, she said the center will have to shoulder those costs by raising tuition and dipping into the endowment and leftover funds from a COVID-era loan program. Youth and Family's current tuition is $404 a week for infants, and $347 a week for preschoolers.

Most of their new hires are immigrants, which Babson-Haley said is important, because most of their students are, too. The center also began offering completely free tuition for children of employees in 2022, which she said has helped with retention and creating a family atmosphere.

But even with benefits, child care centers continue to struggle because their wages are comparable to jobs in fast food or retail.

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"Outside of this field, the work is not as intensive and taxing, and it's paying more," said Charlotte Jacobs, the program director at Seedlings to Sunflowers, a child care center in Gorham.

Seedlings to Sunflowers offers a 50% tuition discount for employees, and has been expanding that benefit with the Child Care Employment Award Program, a two-year pilot program included in the state's last biennial budget that helps employees pay for their own child care.

It's also no longer included in the governor's proposed budget.

The Mills administration said in a written overview of its proposed DHHS cuts that the program has proven to be "mostly duplicative, as many workers enrolled in the program already qualify for assistance paying for child care through Maine's Child Care Affordability Program" and said cutting it will save $2.5 million annually.

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At Seedlings, of the 20 employees who are eligible for the program, only three are currently enrolled. The rest are still on the waitlist.

Meghann Carrasco is Seedlings' founder and executive director. Across two locations, the center serves about 170 kids from infants to pre-K. The starting pay for teachers is $18 to $20 an hour, and the center has 45 staff members.

Carrasco said Seedlings had trouble keeping and finding staff after the pandemic, and was able to avoid raising tuition by relying increasingly on state funding. Now she's worried they'll have to, although as a nonprofit, Carrasco said Seedlings will also plan to lean into fundraisers and grants to make up for that loss.

Because the stipends kept increasing, she's worried their loss will hit the workforce even more harshly.

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"Not only have more educators entered the field, but I worry that with such fragile entry-level people, they'll be like, "I'm out of here  this is so unstable,"' Carrasco said. "And on the other side of that, we have very seasoned people, who are maybe in their 40s or 50s, who have invested their entire lives to this field, who I've already seen  and I'm worried that this will compound the issue  leave the field.

ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES

Child care workers say they know the financial climate in Maine is tight, and that cuts have to come from somewhere. But they argue the long-term economic consequences, on the workforce and the public school system, negate the savings of cutting money for early childhood programs.

"This shouldn't be a cut because it's a foundational need to the constructs and fluidity of our economy," Babson-Healy said. "If working parents don't have child care, they can't go to work. We are the workforce behind the workforce."

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The waitlist at her facility has 300 students, and she said most Greater Portland day cares are in the same situation. The ripple effects of the closure of a single facility would be massive.

Carrasco said Seedlings to Sunflowers has a waitlist of 200. But the cost of day care alone drives parents out of the workforce when they realize it's more economical to quit their jobs than pay for child care, which she said is why the stipends are so critical to keeping those costs down.

"It's short-sighted. I know there's anxiety about how the budget is going to be fed," she said. "But if we don't stabilize this field and continue to invest in this field, there will be nothing to build on in this economy."

Day care operators also say there are public K-12 implications for not funding early child care.

Sandra Nadeau, founder of Cocoons Day School in Kennebunk, said the loss of the stipend will ultimately cost taxpayers thousands more down the road, because early child care centers provide learning to children during a period of critical development. She said fewer day care options lead to greater needs like emotional and behavior support or speech therapy for students once they reach public school. Carrasco agreed.

"Kids won't be ready for kindergarten, they'll fall behind, and that impacts the rest of their life. It increases the budget for social-emotional and (Child Development Services) supports within the school system," she said. "Because there's so many studies that show that if you catch behavioral issues early on, typically you're not investing that money down the line."

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JAKARTA, March 3 (Xinhua) -- A 5.6-magnitude earthquake struck off Indonesia's eastern Maluku province early Monday, but it did not trigger large waves, the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency said.

The tremor occurred at 01:42 a.m. local time on Monday, with the epicenter located 63 km southeast of Maluku Tengah Regency at a depth of 10 km, the agency said.

"It is confirmed that there was no serious impact from the tremor, no serious damage or casualties," Sandhy Luhulima, a senior official of the emergency unit of the provincial disaster management agency, told Xinhua over the phone.

Indonesia, an archipelagic nation home to 127 active volcanoes, frequently experiences earthquakes due to its location within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone prone to tectonic activity. 
(Bloomberg) -- President Gabriel Borics popularity was unscathed by Chiles biggest blackout in over a decade, as the nation works to find those responsible for a rare failure that left most of the population in the dark and halted the worlds largest copper mines.

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Borics approval rating remained unchanged at 29% after the blackout, according to a Cadem poll published late Sunday. A survey released the same day by Pulso Ciudadano put his approval at 30.8%, while showing that over two thirds of people blame electricity companies for the failure.

The administration is struggling to lift support ahead of November election for which they are yet to even name a candidate, as opinion polls show a clear lead for the opposition. The government declared a state of emergency and a curfew to head off any disorder following the blackout, while blaming the electric companies for the failure and late restoration of service.

The power cut wasnt enough to negatively penetrate the presidents loyal support base, which has remained more or less stable for years, said Juan Pablo Lavin, executive director at Panel Ciudadano UDD. For the presidents supporters, there is no reason not to stick with the recrimination he made to the electric companies.

The blackout lasted more than 12 hours in some areas on Tuesday, following a fault in a transmission line in northern Chile operated by ISA Interchile  a unit of Colombias Interconexion Electrica SA, which is 51% owned by Ecopetrol SA. The disruption left eight million homes without electricity and was followed by a series of breakdowns in recovery systems, prolonging the power outage, authorities said.

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Unimpressed

Cadems survey shows more than half of people disapprove of how the crisis was managed by the Interior Minister, Carolina Toha, a potential presidential candidate for the left. Just 1.9% of people cited her as their preferred candidate, down from 3.2% a month ago, according to Pulso Ciudadano.

The blackout was the biggest in Chile since at least 2010, when most of the country was plunged into darkness two weeks after an earthquake devastated much of the south. This time however, there was no quake, tsunami, volcano, landslide or floods to explain the power cut in a country accustomed to natural disasters. This time it was purely a system failure.

Output from the worlds biggest copper mines in northern Chile were disrupted by the power cut, especially in their processing activities. Some plants took days to return to full capacity and companies are still evaluating the losses.

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Assuming an outage of just half a day, mines would have lost more than $70 million worth of copper, based on Bloomberg calculations. The impact on the mining industry alone would translate to a 0.17 percentage point drag on Chiles monthly economic activity, LarrainVial wrote in a note to clients.

Over the last year Borics approval rating has fluctuated between 24% and 37%, after coming to power in 2022 with 50%. He won the presidency with the most reformist agenda since leftist leader Salvador Allende in 1970, but he has failed to deliver on many pledges because of a divided congress.

Blame Game

Investors are awaiting details on what went wrong.

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Whenever you have a failure of this magnitude, you take notice, said Michael Minnes, managing director for Latin America at solar developer CarbonFree Technology Inc. At a minimum one should want to know if this was bad luck or if there is something more problematic happening.

He also stressed the need to strengthen Chiles transmission system through better planning and licensing.

Over two thirds of people blame electricity companies for the failure, while 10.4% said the government is the main culprit, according to Pulso Ciudadano survey. The rest were uncertain who to blame.

Industry fines could reach as much as $8 million, while compensations for clients could be a further $16 million, according to a note by think tank Libertad y Desarrollo.

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The Cadem poll surveyed 702 people and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.7 percentage points. Pulso Ciudadano surveyed 1,050 people, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points. Both surveys were carried out between Feb. 26 and 28.

The network in Chile seems more vulnerable than others in the region due to its variable energy component  such as hydro, solar and wind  and the dependence on single North-South circuits, preventing alternative routing, said Ezequiel Fernandez, director of corporate research at Balanz Capital.

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CHILLICOTHE, Ohio (WCMH)  Life can change in an instant as a Chillicothe family knows all too well after four-year-old Locklynn fell into a coma after developing severe complications from the flu.

I will be honest, I never took the flu serious until now, Clayton Shaffer, Locklynns great-uncle, said. After I seen what it did to my own family, it opened my eyes.

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Locklynn is now out of her coma, but in a mere matter of days, she went from a happy-go-lucky girl to a shell of her former self.

To see a four-year-olds life just get stolen from her is hard, Shaffer said.

Bradley Boler, Locklynns father, said the family is living in a real-life nightmare.

Just watch out for your babies, Boler said. Take it more serious. If you feel like something is wrong, take them to the doctors. Even if its been 20 hours since you last took them. Take them.

Boler said that on Feb. 21, Locklynn tested positive for the flu. A few days later, things took a turn.

She got up and said, I cant breathe, Boler said. I was like Its okay. She was taking her nebulizer and her steroids like the doctor had told us.

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Boler said Locklynn got up to use the bathroom early in the morning.

I was awake with her because I was afraid to go to sleep and she just collapsed, Boler said. Right there on the ground, right in front of the bathroom door.

Bolers baby girl had to undergo three rounds of CPR and was life-flighted to Nationwide Childrens Hospital.

A young girl with the entire world at her fingertips instead found herself in a coma after suffering brain damage from losing oxygen to her brain. Her dreams of becoming a cheerleader and attending school, all cut short.

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I had 20 different backpacks in my Amazon cart that she had tried to pick out, Boler said.

Doctors said Locklynn will never walk, talk, or eat on her own again.

Yes, she survived, but we also are mourning the Locklynn that we knew because she wont ever be like that again, Boler said.

How much you need to earn to be middle class in Columbus and Ohio

Now, her family has an urgent message for the community.

If you have any thoughts about not vaccinating your kids for the flu, I beg you guys to do it, Shaffer said. I wouldnt wish this on my own enemy.

Data from the Ohio Department of Health shows flu numbers are high across the state, with 410 hospitalizations in central Ohio alone last week.

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The doctors have told us a thousand times every kid reacts to this flu differently, especially this one, Boler said. So, people have got to take it serious. I dont want anybody elses babies dying.

Locklynns family is hopeful shell get released from the hospital soon.

The Lord works in mysterious ways, Boler said. Who knows what shell be able to do in five years from now, or what kind of technology is available in five years from now.

Boler said theyre facing more bills than ever before, as they look for a wheelchair-accessible van and make changes to their home. A GoFundMe has been set up to help them. You can purchase a shirt in her support here.

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To find the nearest location offering the flu vaccine near you, click here.

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By Joe Cash, Mei Mei Chu and Xiuhao Chen

BEIJING (Reuters) -China has American agricultural exports in its cross hairs as it prepares countermeasures against fresh U.S. import tariffs, China's state-backed Global Times reported, raising the stakes in an escalating trade war between the world's top two economies.

U.S. President Donald Trump last week threatened China with the extra 10% duty set to take effect on Tuesday, resulting in a cumulative 20% tariff, and accused Beijing of not doing enough to halt the flow of fentanyl into America, which China said was tantamount to "blackmail."

"China is studying and formulating relevant countermeasures in response to the U.S. threat of imposing an additional 10% tariff on Chinese products under the pretext of fentanyl," Global Times reported on Monday, citing an anonymous source.

"The countermeasures will likely include both tariffs and a series of non-tariff measures, and U.S. agricultural and food products will most likely be listed," the report added.

China's commerce ministry and the U.S. embassy in Beijing did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

China is the biggest market for U.S. agricultural products, and the sector has long been vulnerable to being used as a punching bag in times of trade tensions.

"Despite a decline in imports since 2018, any tariffs on key U.S. agricultural products like soybeans, meat and grains could have a significant impact on U.S.-China trade as well as U.S. exporters and farmers," said Genevieve Donnellon-May, a researcher at the Oxford Global Society.

"The U.S. agricultural sector has had time to prepare for a second Trump administration and trade war 2.0, with lessons learned from the first Trump administration," she added.

"So, in theory, it should be in a better place to find alternative markets. However, the reality may prove far more complex."

China's most active soymeal and rapeseed meal futures, already underpinned by a supply shortage, each surged 2.5% after the Global Times report. The soymeal contract on the Dalian Commodities Exchange hit its highest since Sept 30, 2024.

The world's top agricultural importer and second-largest economy brought in $29.25 billion worth of U.S agriculture products in 2024, a 14% drop from a year earlier, extending a 20% decline seen in 2023.

Global Times, which is owned by the newspaper of the governing Communist Party, People's Daily, was first to report the steps China planned to take in response to the European Union slapping tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles last year.
The News

The Trump administrations decision to freeze billions of dollars in foreign assistance creates an opportunity for China to strengthen its presence in Africa, but Beijing will not step in to replace the decades-old aid programs now coming to an end, say China-Africa analysts.

Semafor spoke to nearly a dozen China-Africa analysts in recent days who said that China was set to position itself as a reliable partner in the face of the uncertainty unleashed by the US shuttering programs such as those run by the US Agency for International Development (USAID). But even then, few of the analysts thought there would be notable change in Chinas overall approach in Africa in the short to medium term.

The idea that the dismantling of USAID opens the door wider for China in Africa is a misdirection, said Hannah Ryder, CEO of Development Reimagined, a development consultancy. They dont give aid in that way, so they cant replace USAID. Eric Olander, editor of China Global South Project, agreed: It absolutely is an opportunity for China but not in the obvious ways. He said it is more likely that China steps up with headline-grabbing moves as it did with the provision of vaccines in some African countries early during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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While China has spent tens of billions of dollars through trade and infrastructure project loans in Africa over the last decade, it spends significantly less on aid. Around half of its $3 billion aid budget is deployed on the continent.

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USAID managed a budget of up to $50 billion last year, running nearly 6,000 humanitarian, health, and developmental projects around the world. It has had a significant impact on African economic development projects, such as Power Africa and Prosper Africa, many of which are now either paused or completely shut due to the funding freeze imposed by US President Donald Trumps executive order in January. USAID is expected to slash its staff of 10,000 to about 300 with just about a dozen workers left to focus on Africa within the US State Department.

Chinas presence in Africa, which has ramped up over the last two decades, has traditionally focused on trade, technology, infrastructure, and security rather than humanitarian aid or health, said Ronak Gopaldas, an analyst with Cape Town-based Signal Risk. But Trumps America First approach will create some geopolitical opportunities for China to step into a leadership void in Africa, he noted.

Olander said any moves by China would not be on a comparable scale to the US traditional efforts. Last month China and South Korea sent $4 million to the Africa Centres for Disease Control to help plug some of the immediate health funding gaps left by the US aid freeze. But that number was set against cuts of $115 million by the US from its previous pledge of $500 million. We shouldnt expect to see the Chinese try to match USAID because they dont have the infrastructure to do that and its not in their diplomatic DNA to run large aid programs.

Yinkas view

There has been plenty of speculation in recent months about how the expected transactional nature of a Trump 2.0 administration would play out in Africa. If you want some idea of how that might work, look no further than how the Chinese have operated on the continent for the last 20 years.

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Their emphasis has always been on dealmaking, transactional partnerships, and win-win agreements. Africa has been an important setting for Chinese global economic expansion. Even as the US focused on building legacy infrastructure systems for delivering vital humanitarian and health programs, China was busy building actual physical infrastructure of bridges and roads.

Both were always needed across most African countries, and it could be argued  despite the misleading talk of Chinese debt traps  that the last 10 to 15 years has been a fertile period for African governments hoping to develop with US humanitarian aid and Chinese infrastructure support.

Sanjeev Gupta, a veteran development finance consultant who has partnered with Chinese companies on projects across the continent, said African governments have a deeper relationship with China than many realize. China has a much more elevated game with a nuanced understanding of the terrain in a way that the US does not, said Gupta.

However, that deeper relationship could evolve into a dependency if the US leaves the field for China in many countries, notes W. Gyude Moore, a non-resident fellow at the Center for Global Development in Washington. Every state seeks to diversify its partnerships to prevent a dangerous dependence on a single actor, he said, noting China is already Africas largest trade partner and bilateral creditor. The US withdrawal only increases Chinas importance making it arguably the only game in town.

The View From South Africa

Even if China had ambitions to fill in the aid funding gaps left by a US exit, it might not be able to do so given its own economic challenges and growing domestic concern about spending abroad, said Atlantic Councils Alexander Tripp. Its unclear if China has the capability and capacity to do what the US traditionally has done, he told Semafor. Tripp pointed to a few soft power pushes by China including the Peace Ark, a Chinese hospital ship that docked in South Africa last year and that Chinese leaders have been eager to highlight. But initiatives like this are more one-offs.

Room for Disagreement

If the US employs a more transactional approach with Africa it could result in more strategic projects like the Lobito Corridor, a project inaugurated by the Biden administration in Angola last year, particularly as the race for rare minerals needed for electric vehicles and green energy projects accelerates. That could see the US take on China in a sector in which the Asian giant currently leads, especially in the processing of these rare earth metals.

Notable
By Adam Jourdan, Lisandra Paraguassu, Eduardo Baptista and Michael Martina

BUENOS AIRES/BRASILIA/BEIJING/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Argentina's libertarian President Javier Milei came to office in late 2023 slamming China as a communist "assassin" and threatening to weaken ties with the Asian nation. Instead, exports to China including soy and lithium jumped 15% in his first year.

The pragmatic U-turn by a natural U.S. ally underscores a challenge for President Donald Trump in resource-rich South America, where booming commerce in recent years has boosted China's influence.

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Trump is looking to shake up global trade and get partners to promote U.S. interests using threats and trade tariffs. He has already pushed for concessions from Colombia, Panama and Mexico, while Brazil is in the crosshairs of new trade tariffs on steel.

Proposed 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods are due to take effect on Tuesday, with an extra 10% duty on Chinese goods.

But around South America, half a dozen officials, diplomats and trade experts said that China's huge and growing trade lead dulled the impact of Trump's measures - a warning sign of the potential limits more broadly of a punitive approach in a world where the United States has a growing number of economic rivals.

A senior Brazilian diplomat close to leftist President Luiz Inacio 'Lula' da Silva said Brazil's economy was not dependent on the United States, citing the country's $30 billion trade surplus with China last year as far more economically important.

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He said Trump's trade tariff threats - coming after years of "neglect" from the United States - would push countries to look for less risky alternatives like China, Europe or the BRICS group including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Beijing, meanwhile, was "a pragmatic partner," and the Chinese "come here to do business."

Driven by commodities giants Brazil, Chile, Peru and Argentina, South America's exports to China have more than doubled in the past decade, while shipments to the United States have only inched up, a Reuters analysis of trade data show.

That's made China's huge market invaluable for regional leaders grappling with slow growth and high indebtedness, and strengthened Beijing's soft power in the region, even with governments not ideologically aligned.

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'BULLY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD'

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in comments in late January dismissed the risk of pushing South American countries like Colombia more towards China as "absurd", pointing to quick wins the administration has scored.

Tariff threats brought Mexico to the negotiation table on trade and to commit troops to reinforce the border, while a pledge to take the key Panama Canal trade route by force got that country to exit China's Belt and Road infrastructure plan. Colombia and the United States struck a deal after a block on deportation flights took the pair to the brink of a trade war.

Ryan Berg, a director at bipartisan Washington think-tank the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said Trump was actually giving Latin America more attention, with Spanish-speaking Rubio going there on his first overseas trip. But a balance between neglect and threat was needed.

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The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Democratic ranking member of the House select committee on China, told Reuters Washington should avoid becoming "the bully in the neighborhood."

"Because, you know what happens to bullies. People stand up to bullies," he said. "And they do so in ways that could be very detrimental to our long-term national security interests."

BOOMING COMMODITIES EXPORTS

Across South America, China's trade lead has widened, driven by grains and key electrification metals copper and lithium. Washington remains ahead in Central America, but its lead has been trimmed.

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A decade ago, copper giant Peru's largest trade partner was the United States. Now it is China, by far. The Asian country gobbles up Peru's supply of copper and has built a massive port on the country's coast to turbo-charge bilateral trade.

"The impact for Peru would be minimal," said Peru's former economy minister Jose Arista referring to potential U.S. trade tariffs. He cited Peru's free trade agreement with the United States and the make-up of the Andean country's exports.

Even in Argentina where libertarian Milei is a staunch U.S. ally, China's draw is clear. China is the top market for Argentine soybeans and beef, while it bought almost a third of the country's lithium exports last year.

A close adviser to Milei said late last year that the South American country had no problem working with China if it was in Argentina's best interests.

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Colombia does have far closer trade ties with the United States but elevated diplomatic relations with China to a "strategic partnership" at the end of 2023.

Panama, meanwhile, saw exports to China surge far above those to the United States between 2021-2023 before a key copper mine closure led to a sharp drop off last year. Tensions are still simmering with United States over the canal.

'A GIFT TO THE CHINESE'

China has natural advantages as a trade partner for South America, despite the historical closeness and cultural overlap between the United States and its southern neighbors.

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The relationship is not clouded by challenges over migration flows, crime or narcotics, while China's developmental stage means it naturally needs more of the commodities South America has to offer.

The Chinese foreign ministry, in a rare rebuke of Washington's policies in the region after Rubio's Latin America trip, issued a statement criticizing the United States for sowing "discord" between China and Latin American countries and pointed to an "irreversible" trend in deeper cooperation between the region and China.

Li Xing, a professor at the Guangdong Institute for International Strategies, said Trump's tough approach would benefit China as it would make countries hedge their bets

"The moment there is chaos among (U.S.) allies, that's good for China," he told Reuters.

(Reporting by Adam Jourdan, Lisandra Paraguassu, Eduardo Baptista and Michael Martina; Additional reporting by Marco Aquino and Lucinda Elliott; Writing by Adam Jourdan; Editing by Claudia Parsons)
(KRON)  The California Highway Patrol is asking for community assistance in locating a 15-year-old teenage girl.

Kajah Weaver, 15, was last seen around 9:45 p.m. on Friday near Sorani Way and Lamson Road in Castro Valley. She is believed to be on foot, according to CHP.

This image is of 15-year-old Kajah Weaver (CHP)

Kajah has brown eyes and black hair. She is around 150 pounds and is 5 feet, 6 inches tall.

She was wearing a black sweatshirt and black pants.

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Anyone with information regarding Kajahs whereabouts is asked to contact the authorities. Anyone who sees Kajah is asked to call 911.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R), once a close ally of Donald Trump, suggested Sunday that the president must now recognize how his stance on Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, is perceived.

Speaking on ABCs This Week with George Stephanopoulos  following Trumps Oval Office berating of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday  Christie said: What we need to understand is, and what I think the president should try to do now, is to understand that part of the problem here is that he looks and sounds like an ally of Putin.

Trump tore into Zelenskyy and accused Ukraines leader of not being grateful enough to the U.S. for military support amid its invasion by Russia, and suggested he was gambling with starting World War III. Commentators suggested Trump parroted Russian talking points during the fractious meeting. Trump has in recent weeks falsely blamed Ukraine for starting the conflict and called Zelenskyy a dictator.

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Christie also pushed back on Secretary of State Marco Rubios talk about bringing Putin to the negotiating table in a bid to broker peace in Ukraine, which Putins forces invaded in February 2022.

Rubio was saying, Weve got to get Putin to the table. Well, you can get someone to the table in a number of different ways, and its not just through honey, Christie noted.

He added: Sometimes its also through letting them know, Were going to continue to stand with our friends, and youre not going to have any alternative but to continue to have this war as well.

Watch here:

.@GovChristie claims President Trumps rhetoric makes him look like an ally of Russia. "He looks and sounds like an ally of Putin.https://t.co/s5XgPCE3k0pic.twitter.com/9Lhf8KiwkB  This Week (@ThisWeekABC) March 2, 2025

Related...
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) said Sunday that President Trump looks and sounds like an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The comments from Christie came during a panel discussion on ABC Newss This Week, in which the group talked about the heated Oval Office meeting with Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Vice President Vance.

I think one of the strangest things of watching the meeting, Chris, is seeing how personal this was for President Trump. He clearly is upset with [Zelensky], host George Stephanopoulos said. It probably goes back to what started his first impeachment. And he clearly believes, in his mind, despite what U.S. intelligence officials say, which is that Russia did interfere in our [elections], that Vladimir Putin is a victim along with him.

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Well, he certainly does  Look, and I dont think he even cares whether Putins a victim or not, George, I think thats just rhetoric, Christie responded. Hes the victim in his mind, and thats the most important thing. Again, a transactionalist, Whats it mean for me? Whats in it for me? And hes still angry about what happened back then.

What we need to understand is, and what I think the President should try to do now is to understand  the part of the problem here is that he looks and sounds like an ally of Putin. And you know, Secretary Rubio was saying, Well, we got to get Putin to the table, Christie, who has emerged as a critic of Trump, added later. Well, you know, you [can get] someone to the table in a number of different ways, and its not just through honey.

Zelensky, Trump and Vance had a tense Oval Office meeting on Friday that featured shouting, finger-pointing and the president and the Ukrainian leader arguing over U.S. support for Ukraine.

Following the meeting, Trump said on his Truth Social platform that the Ukrainian president is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.

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The meeting resulted in blowback from some Republicans and Democrats, with Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) calling it an utter embarrassment for America.

The president of the United States is a coward who is Vladimir Putins puppet, Rep. Seth Moulton (D-Mass.) told CNN in the wake of the meeting. What we just witnessed was a meeting in the Oval Office between two cowardly puppets and a hero.

The Hill has reached out to the State Department and the White House for comment on Christies remarks.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
An officer shot a person holding a knife and a gun on Sunday in Walnut Hills, according to Cincinnati police chief Teresa A. Theetge.

Theetge said that officers were dispatched to the 3000 block of Gilbert Ave. at around 9:30 p.m. for reports of a man with a knife and a gun.

Theetge said the preliminary investigation found that after units arrived on scene, something transpired causing an officer to shoot.

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The man was hit in the hip by the bullet and sustained injuries that are not considered life-threatening, Theetge said.

The shooting is being investigated by the Cincinnati Police Department's homicide unit, the Citizens Complaint Authority, the Hamilton County Prosecutors office, and an internal CPD department, Theetge said.

Theetge said more information will be provided as the investigation continues.

The shooting is the third one by an officer in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region in the last few days.

On Friday, Robert Brandon Eldred, 39, who investigators said charged at deputies with a bat and an axe, was shot in Columbia Township on Friday, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department. He was taken to the UC Medical Center in critical condition.

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Charles Davis, 62, of Covington was shot by officers there after an armed bank robbery on Friday afternoon, according to Kentucky State Police. Davis was taken to UC Medical Center, where he was in stable condition as of Sunday morning, a state police spokeswoman told The Enquirer.

Enquirer media partner Fox19 provided this report. It also contains information from other Enquirer reports.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati police officer shot man holding gun, knife, chief says
Dry and cool weather is forecast for the start of the work week. Then gusty winds, rainfall and warmer temperatures will move into the Greater Cincinnati region by mid-week.

According to the National Weather Service in Wilmington, sustained surface winds around 10 mph will be possible along the Ohio and Indiana border on Monday. Winds less than 5 mph are slated to occur in Northern Kentucky and southern Ohio.

However, given that the winds will be very light, fire weather isn`t too much of a concern. Otherwise, Monday will be a typical late winter and early spring day with highs in the mid- to upper 40s.

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By Tuesday morning, winds will be at 10-15 mph, gusting into the 20s for much of the area. This will usher in warm air from the Gulf Coast and temperatures will rise to the upper 50s to the mid- to upper 60s.

Most areas will still be dry, though a chance for rain may occur along the Ohio/Indiana border overnight into early Tuesday afternoon. Otherwise, cloudy skies, unseasonably warm temperatures, and breezy conditions will be on tap for Tuesday.

Widespread showers are likely Tuesday night along with wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph. There will be a low chance for thunder.

Showers will continue Wednesday morning into the afternoon. The strongest wind gusts, between 35 and 45 mph, will also occur on Wednesday. Highs will range from the lower 50s in the west to the lower 60s in the east.

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Rain and/or snow showers may occur Wednesday night before the precipitation tapers off but little snow accumulation is expected. Thursday's forecast looks clear and windy. It will also be much colder with highs ranging from the upper 30s to the mid-40s.

The next weather system will move east through the Ohio Valley Region on Friday through Saturday, bringing another chance of rain. A little bit of snow may mix in early on Saturday across the far northern part of the coverage area.

Otherwise, it will be warm with highs ranging from the upper 40s in the north to the mid-50s in the south. Highs on Saturday will range from the mid-40s in the north to the lower 50s in the south.

High pressure will extend across the region today. The high will move east on Tuesday. Increasing southerly flow will allow temperatures to continue to climb. A strong low pressure system will then affect our region Tuesday night into Wednesday with showers and wind. pic.twitter.com/hG2W1mB18b  NWS Wilmington OH (@NWSILN) March 3, 2025

Detailed 7-day Cincinnati weather forecast

Monday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 51. Calm wind becoming south 5 to 7 mph in the morning.

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Monday night: Increasing clouds, with a low of around 38. South wind around 6 mph.

Tuesday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 64. South wind 6 to 13 mph.

Tuesday night: Showers, mainly after 8 p.m. Low of around 51. Southeast wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Wednesday: Showers. High near 59. Breezy, with a south wind 11 to 16 mph increasing to 17 to 22 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 41 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

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Wednesday night: Rain showers likely before 10 p.m., then rain and snow showers likely between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m., then a chance of snow showers after 1 a.m. Cloudy, with a low of around 32. The chance of precipitation is 60%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Thursday: Partly sunny, with a high near 45.

Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 55.

Saturday: A chance of rain. Partly sunny, with a high near 53. The chance of precipitation is 30%.

Sunday: Sunny, with a high near 53.

Source: National Weather Service Office, Wilmington.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati weather: Gusty winds, spring temps, rain likely this week
Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei speaks at a press conference in Tehran, Iran, on March 3, 2025. Baghaei on Monday slammed what he described as "untrue" claims by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its Director General, Rafael Grossi, regarding the nature of Iran's "peaceful" nuclear program. (Xinhua/Shadati)

TEHRAN, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman, Esmaeil Baghaei, on Monday slammed what he described as "untrue" claims by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its Director General, Rafael Grossi, regarding the nature of Iran's "peaceful" nuclear program.

Baghaei made the remarks during a weekly press conference in Tehran, responding to recent IAEA reports which stated that Iran had "substantially raised" its production of highly enriched uranium since December, increasing its stockpile of near-weapons-grade material. Grossi had made similar comments on the matter.

Baghaei said Tehran expected the IAEA chief to act within the framework of his authority and duties, stating that making political conjectures was neither part of Grossi's responsibilities nor helpful in resolving concerns about Iran's nuclear program.

"Such statements are in no way based on realities," he added, noting that Iran's nuclear program had repeatedly been proved to be within the frameworks of international law, the safeguards agreement with the IAEA, and the Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Baghaei also suggested that the IAEA's actions were influenced by the demands of certain Western countries, implying that the reports stemmed from political rather than technical concerns.

In its reports seen by the media on Wednesday, the IAEA claimed that Iran's stock of uranium enriched to up to 60 percent purity level had reached 274.8 kg, which, according to an IAEA yardstick, "is enough for six nuclear bombs if enriched further."

Iran signed a nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, accepting restrictions on its nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions.

However, the United States withdrew from the agreement in May 2018 and reinstated sanctions, prompting Iran to scale back some of its nuclear commitments.

Efforts to revive the JCPOA commenced in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite multiple rounds of negotiations, no substantial progress has been reported since the last talks in August 2022. 

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei speaks at a press conference in Tehran, Iran, on March 3, 2025. Baghaei on Monday slammed what he described as "untrue" claims by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its Director General, Rafael Grossi, regarding the nature of Iran's "peaceful" nuclear program. (Xinhua/Shadati)
(Editor's note: As of Sunday, March 2, these are all the letters to the editor the Enquirer has received on the topic since the Feb. 28 Oval Office meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. If you have a viewpoint counter to those expressed here, please send in a letter to the editor or guest column sharing your views. Information on how to submit is at the end of this round-up.)

More: Video: President Trump, VP Vance clash with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in Oval Office

Trump administration has abandoned and betrayed Ukraine

The meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald Trump on Feb. 28 regarding rare earth minerals was nothing more than attempted extortion. Although all the details have not yet been disclosed, the following is how things may have unfolded.Trump pressured Zelenskyy to accept an inequitable mineral agreement with the United States. In exchange, Russia would stop further aggression, ending the war. In addition, Russia would keep all territories it currently occupies. Although not assured, Zelenskyys rejection of the proposition was the likely outcome.If Zelenskyy agrees, Putin and Trump would get much of what they wanted. If Zelenskyy doesn't agree, he would be cast, in the U.S., as an uncooperative war monger, giving Trump justification for aligning more with Russia and stopping further aid for Ukraine. Trump has been trying to find justification for aligning with Putin for some time. First, characterizing Zelenskyy as a dictator, then pushing the lie that Ukraine started the war.

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Zelenskyy was set up. This was a no-win situation. He was right to reject the proposal and walk away.

The Trump administration has betrayed and abandoned Ukraine, embracing Russia instead. The geo-political fallout from this has yet to be seen. However, it would be fair to say that our European Union allies, including Canada, must be contemplating their relationship with the United States as friend or foe. How is this in America's best interest?

Congressional action is needed to stop this madness. Short of this, a groundswell of action by the U.S. citizenry to reject this policy shift is all that is left.

Richard Schneider, Amelia

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More: Ex-Gov. Kasich calls Trump, Vance, Zelenskyy meeting 'shameful.' Other Ohio leaders react

Trump tries to take advantage of Ukraine in its time of need

With Ukraine desperately fighting to remain free, President Donald Trump wants access to their minerals. Does this look like taking advantage of people in their time of need?

Trump said he very earnestly wants to end the war in Ukraine. Peace is a good goal, but it's easy to give up someone else's land. Begging for peace and making concessions can only embolden the aggressor. It is normal to seek a historical analog when current events happen. Lloyd George thought if Hitler got concessions, he would stop aggression. Wrong. Ronald Reagan must be turning over in his grave. He confronted the Soviet Union, and his actions helped bring it down. Trump could do the same to the current Russian dictator if he had the vision.

Maybe it is a bit of both. To me, the word to describe Trump is Darwinian. He has rejected the humanitarian goals of foreign aid as too woke and liberal. He knows who the big players are: The United States, China, Russia and India. Ukraine, Taiwan and Lithuania are runt countries dependent on others' protection (or simply others not attacking) to survive. The big players swallow up the little ones. Why would politeness, morality, respect for sovereignty and international law get in the way of a big power saying it wants to take Greenland?

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Brian Doran, Delhi Township

Trump and Vance embarrassed US in Oval Office meeting with Zelenskyy

President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance's behavior at the meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is beyond disgusting. To describe Trump as a spoiled, rich-kid, schoolyard bully is a vast understatement, and he displayed this on a world stage. I am embarrassed for our country to have those two as so-called leaders.

I am sure that Russian President Vladimir Putin is laughing and clapping with glee. I beg the Republicans to show some courage and join as a group to stand up to these men. A second thought: We desperately need leaders who will use their God-given minds and hearts to lead, and not just passively "kiss the ring," including for the agent of chaos, Elon Musk. He simply blows things up and then waits to see how they settle. Not wise.

Kathy Stack, Harrison

Oval Office meeting demonstrates Trump and Vance have no capacity for civility

I was outraged by the performance of President Donald Trump and Vice J.D. President Vance at the White House press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Feb. 28. I was outraged. I was ashamed as an American. The crude and heavy-handed insults of Zelenskyy by Trump and Vance demeaned their offices and gave to the world a bully and cowardly face of America. It will not just be Americans traveling abroad who will be treated coldly, even contemptuously by Europeans, but government officials and business people, as well, will be warily treated. Diplomacy requires civility. Trump and Vance have demonstrated that they have no capacity for civility.

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The substance of Trump/Vances positions is equally outrageous. Trump says he is "going to make deal," and Zelenskyy is going to have to take it or leave it. Zelenskyy is not going to be a party to the Trump/Putin negotiations. Moreover, Ukraine is going to have to turn over substantial mineral rights on Ukrainian soil as a precondition of a Trump/Putin agreement. This is not a negotiated settlement of a war. This is a realignment of the U.S. with Putin against Ukraine to force its total surrender. This is the dream of two bullies.

Zelenskyy says that Ukraine requires security guarantees that Russia will not restart the war once there is a ceasefire. Trump says he can take Putins word that a peace will remain a peace, that security guarantees are not necessary. Does anybody in their right mind believe Putin or Trump? Would we believe Putin if he invaded Alaska but then promised not to develop an appetite for the lower 48?

Trump says that he doesnt want to preside over another Vietnam or Afghanistan. We all agree. But supplying Ukraine with the arms sufficient to repel Russia does not involve "boots on the ground." Our European allies have made recent offers of a security guarantee, including "boots on the ground."

What is most disturbing about the Trump position is his warning that the U.S. might be better off disengaging from NATO in favor of a grand alliance with Russia. NATO is our shield for protecting democracy in the Western world and a model for developing nations as well. Take away NATO and watch petty dictators like Victor Orban of Hungary and Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey multiply in other European countries.

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Will there arise American patriots who will oppose Trump on the subject of Ukraine? Has the bully team of Trump and Vance cowed every voice in the House of Representatives and Senate? We have a mountain to climb if we want to recover our role in the world as the beacon of democracy and the enemy of terror. Our only hope is to hear rising voices. Fearlessly.

Robert Newman, Hyde Park

The berating of Zelenskyy at the White House was unprecedented

Remember back in 1941 when FDR invited Winston Churchill to come to the United States, and Roosevelt insulted and berated Churchill in front of a world audience to please Hitler and the Nazis? Neither do I.

Keith Thompson, Ft. Thomas

Trump and Vance wanted to humiliate Zelenskyy in front of the world

Dear Mr. Zelenskyy, I am ashamed and embarrassed by how you were treated today (Friday, Feb. 28) by President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. They treated you like a child and bullied you. I fear that you were set up. They had every intention to try to humiliate you in front of the American media, our country and the rest of the world. You and the Ukrainian people deserve better. America is better than this.Anne Scheid Jasinski, East Walnut Hills

Trump and Vance were rude and indecent to Zelenskyy and all Ukrainians

If you thought Fridays performance in the Oval Office was great, you have absolutely no consideration for the sacrifices of Ukrainians. Consider that in 1994, the newly independent country of Ukraine was briefly the third-largest nuclear power in the world. Ukraine decided to completely denuclearize. In exchange, the U.S., the United Kingdom and Russia guaranteed Ukraine's security in an agreement known as the Budapest Memorandum.

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Twenty years later, Russia invaded Ukraine and annexed Crimea. Six years after that, Russia invades Ukraine once again. Over 12,000 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, and 30,000 wounded. Over 65,000 Ukrainian forces have been killed, and 400,00 wounded. It is estimated that over 56,000 forces are missing or captured. Ukrainians have been raped and beaten. Twenty thousand children have been abducted, and over eight million Ukrainians have fled the country.

The U.S. has committed about $185 billion in humanitarian aid and military aid (not $500 billion). Most of that money stayed in the United States, financing American factories and paying American workers. The actual weapons sent to Ukraine were obsolescing and would never have been used by the United States in a conflict.

Last week, President Trump called President Zelenskyy a dictator and accused him of starting the war. But when questioned by a journalist this week, Trump didnt remember calling him a dictator. Thinking there was a plan for advancing fair negotiations, Zelenskyy agreed to meet with Trump and Vance in the Oval Office. Another Trump photo op broad-sided Zelenskyy with further accusations. They were rude and indecent not just to President Zelenskyy but to all Ukrainians.

What a sad day for America.

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Howard Dolle, Union Township

Join the conversation

As always, you can join the conversation on these and other topics by sending your thoughts to letters@enquirer.com. Letters of up to 200 words may be submitted and must include name, address, community and daytime phone number. Op-eds are submitted the same way except they should be 500-600 words and also include a one-sentence bio and headshot. Submissions may be edited for space and clarity.

If you need some tips on how to write an op-ed, click here.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati reacts to explosive Trump-Zelenskyy Oval Office meeting
Mar. 2Citizens is reaffirming its commitment to strengthening communities by continuing its Champions in Action program, which supports nonprofit organizations tackling pressing social challenges. This initiative provides financial, promotional and volunteer support to nonprofits making a meaningful impact in their communities.

The program, which operates in nine key markets, will recognize one nonprofit organization twice annually. Each winner will receive:

$50,000 in unrestricted funding from Citizens

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Coverage from local media partners

Volunteer support from Citizens colleagues

Promotional visibility in Citizens branches and on the Citizens website

Currently, applications are open for the next Champion in Action, with a focus on Building Employment Pathways for Diverse Abilities for the period of July to December 2025. The application deadline is March 10, 2025, with honorees announced in July 2025.

Employment barriers for the neurodivergent community

Individuals with diverse abilities, including those in the neurodivergent community, bring unique skills and perspectives to the workforce. However, they face significant employment challenges. Research indicates that unemployment rates for adults with autism, ADHD and dyslexia range from 30-40%, which is three times higher than individuals with other disabilities and eight times higher than the general population.

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Citizens is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workforce that embraces diversity, strengthens economies and builds resilient communities. To support this mission, the Champions in Action award will recognize a nonprofit that:

Provides career training, job placement, mentorship, and/or workplace accommodations tailored to individuals with diverse abilities.

Develops inclusive employment pathways that leverage the strengths of neurodivergent individuals.

Establishes partnerships with employers to promote inclusive hiring practices.

Eligibility and application process

Nonprofits that wish to apply for the Champions in Action award must:

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Be based in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Rhode Island, San Francisco or Southern Florida.

Address a specific social concern within their community.

Have an operating budget between $250,000 and $5 million.

Provide at least one skills-based volunteer project for Citizens colleagues.

Organizations previously honored may reapply after five years. Nonprofits with successful programs or partnerships may apply individually or as a lead applicant in a collaborative effort.

Interested organizations can submit their applications by visiting citizensbank.com/champions.

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Through this initiative, Citizens aims to build a more inclusive workforce and empower individuals with diverse abilities to reach their full potential.

Media coverage available in select markets, including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Rhode Island.
OWENS CROSS ROADS, Ala. (WHNT)  An attorney for Pathway of Madison County argued the reasons why the treatment center should keep its business license Monday, nearly two months after the city council voted to revoke it.

City officials in Owens Cross Roads held a public hearing concerning the proposed non-renewal of Pathway of Madison Countys business license.

Pathway of Madison County, formerly known as Pathway Inc., contracts with the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR) to provide mental health services to children. DHR says the company has two licenses for facilities in Owens Cross Roads, one for moderate services and the other for intensive services. An attorney for Pathway said the facility no longer offers intensive care services during the hearing.

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Rick Hall, a lawyer for the facility, addressed the council about not renewing the business license. He said the facility has made some changes since a major riot incident at the facility on Sept. 2, 2024, and the facility hired a new executive director after that incident.

Hall continually compared that incident, where property was damaged and an employee was injured, to incidents at Alabama public schools.

Hall stressed that the children at the facility are there for treatment and have generally had traumatic home lives. Hall said multiple times that closing the facility would adversely affect those children. The facility only accepts girls for treatment, according to the attorney.

He said shutting down the facility would also affect 30 employees.

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Hall also said addressed concerns about police calls to the facility. He said the police were called to the facility five times between its opening in June 2024 and Sept. 2, and four times in the months since Sept. 2. He credited a decrease in call frequency to the facilitys new director.

Hall also said the facility is willing to reimburse the city for calls to its facility and make $50,000 in fencing to the facility if the council renews its business license. He said Pathway would take those steps to handle the councils concerns.

During his presentation, Hall did not address concerns expressed by some in the community that children had been mistreated at the facility.

The treatment centers business license was revoked in January.

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The city attorney said the council will take up the issue again at their meeting on Tuesday. If the council decides again to revoke the license, they would then have to have a more formal hearing with Pathways involving giving evidence and calling witnesses.

You can watch the hearing in the video player above.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
Western sanctions and difficulties with exports to Asia have triggered a serious crisis in Russia's coal industry.

Source: Ilya Seredyuk, Governor of Kemerovo Oblast, at a parliamentary meeting; The Moscow Times

Details: The most affected coal mining area was Kuznetsk Basin (Kuzbass), Russia's main coal-producing region, which accounts for about 60% of total hard coal production and 80% of coking coal.

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Eight coal companies in Kemerovo Oblast have shut down due to financial problems. Hundreds of miners have not been paid for several months.

Quote from Ilya Seredyuk: "The sanctions imposed by Western countries are transforming the structure of our export and import supplies. Falling prices on global markets, logistical problems, staff shortages and a high key rate have all become a serious challenge for the coal industry."

Russian companies, having lost access to Western markets, are trying to reorient their exports to Asia but are facing difficulties there as well. In 2023, India reduced purchases of Russian coal by 37% and China by 13%. As a result, total coal exports from Kuzbass fell by 10.4%, and total production in the oblast decreased by 7.3% to 198.4 million tonnes.

Background:

Russian coal exporters have been facing a decline for three years now, leading to lower profits and production.

Coal production in Russia fell by 6.7% year-on-year in July 2024, with a total volume of 31.5 million tonnes, the lowest since the Covid-19 pandemic.

The proportion of unprofitable coal companies in Russia has exceeded 52%, while coal exports have fallen by 12%.

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"What a night," said November Los Angeles magazine cover star and best actor Oscar nominee Colman Domingo as he took the stage during a commercial break of the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2.

As part of the Oscar program, Los Angeles firefighters read a few jokes from the teleprompter and received a standing ovation from the crowd for their heroic work battling the wildfires across Southern California in January. Domingo, dressed in an arresting red and black custom Valentino look, similarly raised Angelenos spirits.

"What an honor to be sharing this evening with so many people I truly adore," Domingo continued. "I wish I could capture this, but actually, all of you can ... This is the moment to take out your phones, and let's create a moment for all of us to remember. I invite you all to join me in raising a toast with ones of those little tiny bottles of Don Julio 1942. This is to our city  Los Angeles."

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He went on: "I think we all fell a little more in love with it recently, because we know what it is made of when disaster strikes and it affects us all. We look out for each other. We dig deep, and we go through it together."

As he spoke, audience members received little bottles of the margarita cocktail being passed around.



"People have actually asked me, with all that we went through, 'Will you move? Will you leave Malibu?' And I'm telling you, not even a thought," Domingo said. "I will stand 10 toes down with my community. Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Altadena, Los Angeles. We've watched our first responders, our neighbors, our communities go above and beyond together. So, this toast if for you: your resilience, to keep on keeping on. Keep on looking out for one another."

Then, as he raised the bottle and took a drink, he welcomed the crowd to get up with him as he started "a little dance party."
The Orange County Sheriffs Office, in collaboration with the Osceola County Sheriffs Office, has arrested a group of individuals involved in a series of residential burglaries.

According to detectives, the group, comprised of Colombian nationals, was specifically targeting the homes and apartments of business owners while they were at work.

Deputies said it is believed this group is responsible for several residential burglaries in both Osceola and Orange counties.

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Investigators said the group is suspected to have been operating in multiple western states and is linked to numerous burglaries across the country.

On Feb. 21, around 9 p.m., deputies saw three cars inspecting various homes and businesses in the south end of Orange County.

They reported that three suspects drove to an apartment complex near Universal Boulevard and Sand Lake Road, forcibly entered an apartment, and committed a burglary.

Detectives followed the suspects and managed to arrest them at another apartment complex located near Vineland and Conroy roads.

According to a news release, Osceola County detectives arrested two additional suspects.

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All five suspects are facing charges of criminal mischief, grand theft, and third-degree burglary of a dwelling.

Deputies said it was discovered at the jail that two of the suspects had Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation warrants.

We have been working with our partners at the @OsceolaSheriff to take down a group of Colombian nationals committing residential burglaries, targeting the homes and apartments of business owners while they are at work. We believe they are responsible for a series of residential pic.twitter.com/fbodS3vZ3N  Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) March 3, 2025

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  Owensboro Health, in partnership with the Kentucky Cancer Program, says it is expanding its annual Colon Cancer Awareness Events to more locations this year.

Officials say these educational events will provide important resources on colorectal cancer prevention, screening and treatment. Attendees will have the opportunity to visit health resource booths, speak with healthcare professionals and learn how regular screenings can prevent colon cancer or detect it early when its most treatable. Some locations will also feature an interactive inflatable colon display, allowing visitors to walk through and see healthy colon tissue, polyps and cancerous growths up close.

KYTCs high water report for March 3, 2025

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Owensboro Health says the 2025 event schedule includes:

March 4 Breckenridge Medical Building at 1000 Breckenridge Street 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Small colon inflatable and health resource booths

March 5 Owensboro Health Twin Lakes Medical Center 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Small colon inflatable and health resource booths

March 6 Henderson Healthplex 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Health resource booths only

March 7 Owensboro Health Regional Hospital 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Large colon inflatable and health resource booths

March 11 Muhlenberg Healthplex 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Health resource booths only

March 12 Madisonville Healthplex 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Health resource booths only



Coroner called to accident on Highway 431 in Daviess County

Owensboro Health says colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, yet it is highly preventable with timely screenings. According to the Owensboro Health Cancer Registry, colorectal cancer remains a top concern in the region.

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Owensboro Health invites the public to attend these free events to learn more about keeping their colon healthy.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration tested its new AI fire monitoring technology, the Next Generation Fire System, at its fire weather testbed in Colorado in June 2024. (NOAA)

Three Colorado Democrats are demanding answers from President Donald Trumps administration about its dismantling of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration after reports of mass terminations at the weather agency last week.

U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper and House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse of Lafayette wrote to officials in the U.S. Department of Commerce, which oversees NOAA, raising concerns about ongoing efforts by the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, to downsize the agency and disrupt its operations.

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The work our scientists and civil servants do at NOAA is essential to U.S. national security, as well as the personal safety and daily lives of Americans, the lawmakers wrote in their letter. Dismantling NOAA or compromising its capabilities would put Americans across the country at great risk.

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The letter asks Roderick Anderson, the Commerce Departments acting inspector general, to investigate DOGEs attempts to unlawfully halt congressionally-approved spending and programs, and to gain unauthorized access to IT systems within NOAA.

NOAA employs more than 10,000 people across dozens of sub-agencies and offices, including the National Weather Service and its network of 120 local weather forecasting stations nationwide. Several major NOAA facilities are located in Colorado, with the largest concentration in Boulder, including the agencys Space Weather Prediction Center and, in partnership with the University of Colorado, the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences.

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Around 800 NOAA employees nationwide, most of them probationary employees who had recently been hired or promoted, were terminated last week, part of a wave of mass firings carried out by DOGE, an initiative spearheaded by Elon Musk, the worlds richest person and a Trump megadonor. Another 500 employees departed the agency on Friday after accepting the Trump administrations controversial deferred resignation offer, the New York Times reported.

DOGEs efforts  which have included attempted shutdowns of congressionally established agencies and a freeze on certain federal funds that has persisted in defiance of court orders  run contrary to long-settled separation-of-powers principles in the U.S. Constitution.

Bennet, Hickenlooper and Neguse called the firings incredibly shortsighted. They highlighted the critical work NOAA performs to keep Americans informed about severe weather  including its partnerships with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Department of Defense  in addition to monitoring drought conditions for farmers and ranchers, coordinating wildfire response, and safeguarding GPS systems and other satellite capabilities.

The value of NOAA and its programs are clear. Any attempt to unilaterally halt them would constitute egregious overreach of executive power, jeopardizing the safety and well-being of countless Americans, the lawmakers wrote. The American people deserve answers about what President Trump and DOGE have done and plan to do with this crucial agency.

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BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- China's State Council on Monday announced the appointment and removal of several officials.

Li Gao was appointed vice minister of ecology and environment, replacing Zhao Yingmin.

Jiang Wensheng was appointed vice minister of agriculture and rural affairs, replacing Wu Hongyao.

Yan Dong was appointed vice minister of commerce, and Li Zhen was appointed deputy head of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council. 
Mar. 3MOSES LAKE  Elizah Lourdes Rendorio didn't really know what to expect from the Columbia Basin.

"I was a little bit scared, I'm not gonna lie," she said. "I just knew that my audience is very different from the people that I usually write to, or the people that I surround myself with or grew up with. So. I was definitely hesitant at first. I was scared that I was going to (upset) the wrong people, but I haven't. People have been very receptive, and I don't think there was any reason for me to be scared."

Rendorio, 20, is the Columbia Basin Herald's intern covering this year's legislative session in Olympia. She discovered journalism as a high school freshman in Shoreline, just north of Seattle.

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"I wrote an essay on 'To Kill a Mockingbird' ... and I just realized how much I enjoyed writing it, and how much I like to bring attention to social justice issues," she said.

Rendorio started out majoring in history, she said, but decided she'd rather write than teach and switched to journalism. Her passion for writing about politics in particular dovetailed neatly with the internship.

"This internship kind of fell on my lap," she said. "I did not expect that I was going to be doing this ... It happened very suddenly, but this was exactly what I wanted to do."

Young people who are eager to learn and want to develop their skills as journalists, like Rendorio is doing, are an asset to any news organization. Mentoring them to understand the ins and outs of reporting and knowing how to a story so that informs in a neutral way is important, Columbia Basin Herald Managing Editor R. Hans "Rob" Miller said.

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"Elizah has been doing a great job and turning to all of the sources she speaks with in an open-minded way," Miller said. "The first steps into journalism and understanding that a dedication to straight truth is justice is important to instill in young reporters."

Rendorio said she's discovered that the social and political issues facing the dry side of the state are very different from Seattle's problems, and that people in the Basin are just as passionate about them. One story she wrote, on overtime pay for farm workers, garnered quite a number of comments on Facebook, many of them contentious. She didn't realize she had touched on such a sensitive topic until later, she said, but she was proud of the work that went into the article.

"I don't say I wouldn't care about the reception, but I try not to look too much into it ... That was an article that was really hard for me to write, but I think it was also the most rewarding," she said.

Miller said he saw that article act as a real learning experience for Rendorio. Labor unions, legislators, farmers and farmworkers all had something to gain or lose with how the still-pending legislation comes out at the end of the session.

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"Controversy can be part of the job, and topics aren't controversial for no reason. Making sure as many viewpoints and factors are included in controversial topics is the only way to be fair. Elizah ended up digging in, doing the extra reporting and getting a solid article put together. Ideally, it'll help the two sides of the situation communicate with one another," Miller said.

Rendorio said she'd like the opportunity to write more about the arts, but the political landscape will always be her first love.

"Politics is something that I've been passionate about my whole life," she said. "I do want to hopefully continue doing that ... People don't realize how much politics affects everybody in every state, no matter what, and it's important that people are informed by that, even though it can get really tiring and jaded sometimes."

Young journalists are the future of the profession, Rendorio said, but the world they inhabit isn't that of their parents and grandparents and the familiar models of print and broadcast are morphing into something different.

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"I think the news is changing faster than we think, and the traditional way of news is not necessarily going to be received the best, especially from people in my generation," she said. "I don't have the time to watch the news on the TV ... It's just social media. That's just the main way that people get their information. It's very important to me that I carry that on as I get older, because journalism is what makes the world go round. People always say it's a dying profession, but it's not. It just needs to be changed to meet people where they're at now."

Where she's going to ply her trade after graduation is still up in the air, she said, but a small community newspaper holds a certain appeal to her. As a product of the Seattle area, Rendorio was familiar with the "Seattle freeze," the difficulty newcomers have in the Seattle area making connections with local people. Even at UW, students don't generally socialize outside their own majors, she said. She was so accustomed to that dynamic that she had thought friendly small towns were the stuff of fiction. Her experiences in the Basin changed that perception, she said.

"Your community is so much stronger than I've ever really experienced," she said. "Hearing about Shop with a Cop, or about how your representatives actually go to your county fair ... I came here, and I was like, 'Wow, this is real life.' People truly go out of their way to do stuff for their community. And I really enjoy that."
EAST LIVERPOOL, Ohio (WKBN)  The Ohio Department of Natural Resources announced several projects in the state last week, including one in Columbiana County.

The Abandoned Mine Lands Economic Revitalization program is providing $2.6 million to convert unusable land to usable space to enhance the outdoor YMCAs facilities in East Liverpool.

The land will then be used to create new hiking areas and other outdoor recreation activities.

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Last week, First News reported about the multi-phased project to rehabilitate the former Vindicator building in Youngstown, transforming it into the Innovation Hub for Aerospace and Defense. AMLER is providing $1.2 million.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
For the last six weeks, President Trumps demolition man Elon Musk has rampaged across the federal bureaucracy  freezing payments, firing workers and disabling entire agencies.

We spent the weekend feeding USAID into the wood chipper, Musk bragged, referring to the foreign aid agency.

And Trump cheered him on. "Elon is doing a great job, but I would like to see him get more aggressive," the president posted on social media in capital letters.

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But Trump and Musk are planting political landmines across the government that could end up damaging them both.

Read more: Column: Trump says he wants to end Russia's war on Ukraine. But he's acting like Putin's wingman

Many federal programs are intended to respond to disasters  or prevent them. Cut those programs and you increase the risk that small problems will turn into big ones.

I asked officials and management experts to help compile a list of possible side effects from Musks blitzkrieg. Heres a sample:

Cutting the Food and Drug Administration could cripple the agencys ability to trace foodborne illnesses back to the source, an important step in stopping their spread.

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Slashing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention could slow the agencys ability to react to epidemics, like the measles outbreak in Texas that has infected at least 146 people and killed one child, the first U.S. measles death since 2015.

Firing Federal Aviation Administration technicians, as the Trump administration did in January, could make air transportation less safe or merely less reliable. Musk tweeted last week that the FAAs air control communications system is breaking down very rapidly [and] putting air traveler safety at serious risk. (But take that with a grain of salt; hes promoting his Starlink system as a replacement.)

Read more: Column: Trump is creating an imperial presidency  and he's doing it by decree

Purging the FBI and CIA could weaken efforts to prevent terrorist attacks. FBI Director Kash Patel has said he wants to send every agent in his Washington headquarters to field offices to be cops. If he follows through, that would include many of the bureaus top counterterrorism specialists.

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Other possible effects from the government-wide chaos are less terrifying, but would still disrupt Americans' lives.

If Musk's technicians inadvertently insert errors in the government's financial payment systems, Social Security checks could be interrupted, Medicare benefits disrupted, IRS tax refunds delayed.

Read more: 'Shadow government'? Billionaire Elon Musk's grip on U.S. government spending raises questions

Officials also worry that confidential information could leak  not only taxpayers' personal details, but classified data about intelligence or defense programs.

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Musks layoffs are also likely to produce a massive brain drain, driving talented managers out of the civil service and discouraging young people from joining. That will make federal agencies less efficient, not more.

Thankfully, none of the worst-case scenarios has occurred. But any one of them could cause a political explosion that would damage Trump's presidency.

The president may not recognize it, but hes taking major risks  not only for the country, but for his standing with the public.

We all love the idea of slashing the size of government, said Donald F. Kettl, a public administration scholar at the University of Maryland. But the more you cut back on government capacities, the more likely something will go wrong. And the instant it affects peoples lives  trouble with Social Security checks, problems with Medicare, having to worry about getting on an airplane  it becomes a political problem.

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Read more: Musk says his gestures at Trump inauguration event weren't Nazi salutes

Trump is playing with unexploded bombs here, said Elaine Kamarck of the Brookings Institution. By doing this in so many places across the government  and by cutting with an axe instead of a scalpel  you increase the possibility of a major f up.

Kamarck says just one highly visible management failure can sink a presidency. Think Hurricane Katrina under President George W. Bush, the Obamacare rollout under President Obama, the Afghanistan withdrawal under President Biden  or Trumps chaotic initial response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Kamarck wrote a book about such disasters: "Why Presidents Fail."

Trump has taken high-risk behavior in the Oval Office to a new level, she said.

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Other presidents took hits because they missed the signals when problems were developing, she said. This is the first president who actually created the problems himself.

The public is already worried. A Reuters/IPSOS poll released Feb. 20 found that 58% of Americans said they were concerned that Social Security payments and other federal benefits could be delayed by Musks actions. A slightly larger number, 62%, said they do not support the freeze on federal grants and services that Musk's team imposed.

As Kamarck found, presidents often get blamed for disasters they didnt cause directly. Obama didnt design the Obamacare website that crashed, but he set up the system that produced it, she noted.

Whether or not a president deserves it, politicians in the other party can be relied on to blame him. When a bungled FDA inspection led to a shortage of baby formula in 2022, Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York said the root cause was Joe Bidens failed leadership.

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Trump critics have already warned that they will hold the president accountable if a disaster occurs on his watch.

If there's a terrorist attack in this country over the next four years, and he's put someone who is judged to not be qualified in as the director of the FBI, then that blood is going to be on his hands, former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, a Republican, said last year.

If any of the problems on that list do occur, it will only be natural for the public to ask whether Trump and Musk were responsible. It will also be natural for reporters to investigate whether Musk's actions played a part.

Trump might be tempted to pin responsibility on Musk and his young cyberwarriors, but its too late for that. Hes spent the last six weeks publicly cheering Musks actions and urging him to do more.

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Its his mess now, Kamarck said.

Lets hope no disasters materialize. But if any of them do, Trump will learn the meaning of what then-Secretary of State Colin L. Powell called the Pottery Barn rule: You break it, you own it.

A personal note: This will be my last weekly column for The Times. Im grateful to the many readers who have given me part of their time over the last 16 years of columnizing  even, and sometimes especially, the ones who told me politely when I was wrong.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Most of the academic writers I know acknowledge that artificial intelligence is beginning to encroach on their field, including the ability to write a cogent essay demonstrating critical thought.

If its a bit bland or generic, well, so are a lot of student essays that weve read over the years. But we still claim as uniquely human the ability to write creatively. Only humans can combine feelings and words and their own associations to form art.

Thats not true.

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AI is, among other things, a web scraper, a gatherer of whats out there, a synthesizer. But so are writers, and what we value is their idiosyncratic skill at putting together whats out there. As poet T.S. Eliot wrote in his essay The Metaphysical Poets: When a poets mind is perfectly equipped for its work, it is constantly amalgamating disparate experiences; the ordinary mans experience is chaotic, irregular, fragmentary. The latter falls in love, or reads Spinoza, and these two experiences have nothing to do with each other, or with the noise of the typewriter or the smell of cooking; in the mind of the poet these experiences are always forming new wholes.

But AI can assemble something akin to that, even if the formation currently involves more fumbled tries in its blind workings toward complexity than a human writer might attempt. In fact, the processes of a large language model, or LLM, are slightly opaque to even computer scientists. And the models are trained on huge sets of data, as are humans.

The students in my writing workshops strive for something original, a high bar to pass. Definitions of originality vary widely: presumably something we havent seen before. In fact, a lot of us need to read more because what we think of as original has been done and done before we were born. There is nothing new under the sun, reads a famous line from Ecclesiastes, undoubtedly not the first time that sentiment has been expressed in a similar way.

So if originality, per se, doesnt exist, what are we looking for? This: Take a known element, such as a toddlers birthday party, and join it to an element you usually dont see associated with it, such as a funeral. The occasion becomes decidedly mixed. I just made up that scenario, but you can too. Its called recombinant.

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The video player is currently playing an ad. Or take an ordinary object, such as a pen, and in your story, use it to dig a hole. This is repurposing. And lest you scoff at such an easy method to produce something new, understand that we certainly do applaud that as something original, from innovative ad campaigns to a short story that includes five languages.

Those who judge creative writing in the classroom are so interested in process  This poem went through five drafts  that we forget that in the end, the finished poem is what matters most. Does it make a difference whether a short story is the result of months of painful choices and revising or simply randomized selections that finally yield a masterpiece (six monkeys at typewriters eventually coming up with Hamlet)?

If so, why?

A creative writer produces a work of art. Are the how and why relevant? How does one know, anyway? Think of the Turing test: If an observer cant tell whether a response is human-generated or machine-generated, then the machine can be said to exhibit intelligence. And if some discerning critics still fondly believe that the novel they admire could have been created only by some demented genius in a garret or basement or castle, thats romantic delusion. Perhaps it was written by the AI inhabiting a data server in Texas.

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Last year, a poet in a nearby English department thundered that AI would never write poetry like Emily Dickinson. So another professor typed into ChatGPT, Write a quatrain in the manner of Emily Dickinson that uses black-and-white imagery and the idea of drowning, yet with a sense of elation. In a matter of seconds, the AI had executed a pretty darned good quatrain, which I wont quote because you can try it yourself, and anyway, ChatGPT will come up with a new one every time.

The kicker? The thundering poet termed the result uninspired and banal, so the other professor went into Dickinsons 1,800-poem corpus, retrieved an obscure quatrain and presented it to the poet, who called the result banal and uninspired.

A surprisingly high number of professors Ive talked to have strong opinions on AI but have never tried it out.

Most people will probably disagree with the points Im making, and I hope this piece doesnt lose me a lot of writer friends. Ive been a productive writer for decades, and the advent of AI worries me  but I dont feel I can ignore it or deny it. I also dont want to confuse process with result: Teaching writing is still important in the way that teaching math is still a worthy endeavor in the age of electronic calculators. We lose certain facilities at our peril.

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Moreover, plenty of valid reasons exist for preferring artisanal to machine-made, not the least of which is how one feels about the result, along with a perfectly understandable aversion to what one thinks of as soulless. But the articles I keep reading about how nothing can replace the role of human artistry, the imagination and lived experience in the creation of art, may console people until its too late.

Bear in mind also that todays AI is far more powerful than the AI of last year. Neural nets are getting better and better at putting together elements to form a result thats pleasing to humans.

Could an AI not too far in the future write a column like this? I dont see why not.

____

David Galef is a professor of English and the creative writing program director at Montclair State University in New Jersey.

___
The Community Blood Bank is launching an initiative that addresses their need and a pressing need of the community.

The blood bank needs blood as a critical shortage takes place.

PA Alzheimers Association chapter hosts RivALZ to end ALZ draft party fundraiser

In an effort to address the shortage, CBB is giving away a carton of free eggs to those who donate.

The initiative aims to ease the financial burden that many families are facing due to egg prices, while also ensuring a stable blood supply for local hospitals and patients.

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Grover Cleveland students collect 4,000 books for needy kids

One donor who donates blood regularly said the initiative comes at a good time.

I think its a great opportunity for us to come in. Im going to come in and donate regardless, this is just something over and above. And I guess with the prices of food and stuff like that, especially the eggs, that is it definitely came in at a good time, said Ron Wisniewski, a donor.

The promotion will continue while supplies last.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  The community came together at Rock Church in Kempsville on Saturday to mourn the loss of Officers Cameron Girvin and Christopher Reese.

Complete Coverage: Fallen VBPD Officers Reese and Girvin

It was a moving ceremony attended by many representatives of other police departments and sheriffs offices, leaving the two families in no doubt of how loved these two men were and how much support they have.

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In his opening comments, Virginia Beach Police Chief Paul Neudigate said the heart of the police department was the officers on the street, like Christopher and Cameron.

Those who know Chris they know he was squared away from day one. Out of 24 recruits in his class, he was number one academically. Levelheaded with a teamwork attitude. He came to work and did his job and epitomized what a police officer is, Chief Neudigate said.

Reese was described as quiet and not needing to be the center of attention. A friend of Reeses said the fact that Chris wanted to ride with Cameron Girvin spoke volumes about who Cameron was.

Cam. Passionate, hard-working, Proactive. His tenacity, work ethic and dedication impressed everyone around him, Neudigate added.

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Neudigate added that he had quite a sense of humor and an uncanny ability to rally the troops in times of need. He mentioned a friend had joked that the paperwork was the only thing he was bad at.

Girvin was married to Jessica and was about to become a father to a baby girl, Paisley, in August.

If theres a silver lining in any of this, it is that Paisley will know exactly who her guardian angel is, Neudigate said.

A point made by officials Saturday was that behind every badge is a human being, and we got to know these two human beings a bit better during the service.

Girvins widow spoke of his unfailing optimism and good spirit.

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But mostly he loved so big. He loved life, he loved Jesus, he loved his job, but most of all he loved the people in his world, Jessica Girvin said.

A friend of Reeses said he was reliable and the first man he trusted to be alone with his daughter.

Chris really became family when I was stationed overseas just months after my daughter was born. If there was anything I ever needed, I knew I could call on him, Matt Rosales said.

He acted as an informal leader among the squad, who I knew I could trust with anything, Virginia Beach Police Sgt. Mike Koch said.

The two men were described as brave and selfless men.

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Chief Neudigate called on officers to let Chris and Camerons lives inspire them to work hard, and the families urged everyone to live the lives these two werent able to.

Rest easy, officers, we will take the watch from here, Neudigate said.

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(WBRE/WYOU)  People in our community are weighing in on the explosive meeting between the president and vice president and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Ukraines leader had come to the White House to sign a minerals deal with the US, but instead, he was shown the door after a heated blow-up.

Two people 28/22 News spoke with on Sunday believe an end to the three-year war is still possible.

One of them is a Luzerne County man who has carried out volunteer missions in Ukraine.

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In a matter of months after the February 2022 war began, Daniel Griffin of Swoyersville put on a vest and traveled to Ukraine. He was there to help with humanitarian aid.

The US stepped in and supplied billions in weapons and ammunition ever since.

That support is now in doubt.

Despite what happened Friday in the Oval Office, Griffin remains hopeful.

We will continue to mend the ties with Ukraine and show our support like we have since 2022, Griffin explained.

Trump and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelenskyy, claiming he was trying to litigate diplomacy to the media.

Hundreds knocked down pins at Annual Rock n Radio Bowl

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I dont think President Zelenskyy was trying to be disrespectful. I think he is thankful for the United States. People want to come off looking a certain way, and things get lost in translation, Griffin continued.

Griffin believes a language barrier led to miscommunication, and the deals involving past presidents differed from the one being negotiated by Trump.

President Trump couldve been a bit more sensitive or empathetic because this man has gone through horror and personal pain, Stella Presbyterian Church Pastor William Lukesh stated.

Pastor Lukesh believes Trump has had his hands full early in his second term and came off harsh to Zelenskyy.

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Although the US did not include Ukraine at the table in preliminary peace talks with Russia and did not back a US resolution urging an end to the war, Pastor Lukesh still has faith.

I think that Ukraine can still see us as their best friend and the pattern that can bring about the proper resolution, Pastor Lukesh added.

These are two boxers in the ring fighting for the prize and we are the referee coming in and trying to make sense of it and make fould but you cant do that and still be a peacemaker, Griffin stated.

The Russia Ukraine War is now more than 1,100 days old.

Both men 28/22 News spoke with on Sunday hope a peaceful end to that war happens sooner rather than later.

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The planned, long-awaited demolition of the boiler house at the former Cheswick Power Station in Springdale did not go as planned Sunday morning.

RELATED COVERAGE >>> Around 70% of former Cheswick power plant boiler house demolished; work continues next Saturday

The plan was to bring the entire 13-story boiler house down in one swoop but part of the last building at the old power plant is still standing.

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SEE PHOTOS FROM THE DEMOLITION

The site has caused years of headaches for neighbors.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Smokestacks at former Cheswick Power Plant site demolished in planned implosion

PHOTOS >>> Damage in Springdale following power plant site implosion

I wish it would all come down and I can be done with this but what are you going to say? said Ken Wenzel of Springdale.

Wenzel lives on Grant Street a couple of houses away from the building. He watched as a massive amount of dust filled the neighborhood within seconds.

All I heard was a big boom outside and I went out and saw a big cloud of dust and thats about it, Wenzel said.

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When the coal dust settled and the shelter-in-place was lifted, the property owner Charah and its president Scott Reschly apologized for the disruption and inconvenience.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> $39,000 civil penalty given for Cheswick smokestack demolition will benefit Springdale, DEP says

Were going to spend the next week cleaning out some of the debris so that we have a good landing zone to bring down the last 30%, said Reschly, the president of Charah Environmental Redevelopment Group (CPERG).

Only 70% of the boiler house collapsed around 9:30 a.m., which Reschly said is not common.

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B&B Wrecking, the demolition company, blames the failed attempt on problems with the cables tied around beams to pull the building down.

Its not what we had planned on 100%, said B&B Wrecking President Brian Baumann. Unfortunately, some of the cables didnt hold up like wed hoped. But again, nobody was hurt and that to me is the most important thing.

No explosives were used in Sundays demolition but its like deja vu for some neighbors after the botched implosion of the two smokestacks nearly two years ago in June 2023. During that one, toxic dust and parts of the power plant went flying into yards and windows.

It broke their fence and messed up their house on the other side of Pittsburgh Street, Wenzel said.

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Around 6 p.m. Sunday, Channel 11 crews saw some metal pieces on the side of the boiler house fall off onto the ground. The demolition contractor, however, said earlier the building is stable.

The building thats still standing is stable, Baumann said. The actual structure and anything thats metal, if it does become loose, typically its going to come straight down.

The rest of the building is scheduled to be pulled down this Saturday, March 8 around 9:30 a.m. or 10 a.m. The end of Porter Street will be blocked off until then. Part of Pittsburgh Street and Freeport Road around the demolition site will be closed on Saturday.

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(WKBN)  The Ohio Attorney Generals Office 2024 Concealed Carry Report shows the number of new licenses issued continues to decline since the implementation of Ohios permit-less carry law.

Read next: Got a court date? How you dress and act matter

Last year marked the second full calendar year since Ohioans were allowed to carry handguns without a permit. The permit-less carry law went into effect June 13, 2022. The change in law did not eliminate the permitting system, and some Ohioans do continue to renew as well as apply for concealed carry permits, albeit a significantly lower number than before.

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One reason a person may elect to be licensed is that it enables them to carry in 39 other states with reciprocity agreements. For the states that do not recognize permit-less carry, Ohioans without a license are unable to legally cross state lines with an assembled handgun.

In 2024, Ohio sheriffs issued 14,440 new concealed-carry licenses, 7.3% fewer than the year before.

The number of licenses renewed also saw a decrease, trending down 21.2% over 2023. Permit holders seeking to keep active licenses must renew every five years.

The number of licenses revoked in 2024 decreased 16.3% from 2023. Mahoning County placed fourth in the state for the highest number of revocations with 29. Under ORC 2923.128, sheriffs must permanently revoke the license of any person who no longer meets the eligibility requirements to carry a concealed handgun.

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A license may be revoked when the holder moves out of state, dies, cancels the license, is convicted of a disqualifying crime, or becomes subject to the laws restrictions on mental illness or drug or alcohol dependence.

Mahoning County placed third in the state for counties of most denied licenses, with 38 denials.

The number of denials has also sharply dropped since 2021, the last full calendar year before the permit-less carry law.

The following charts are a detailed breakdown of concealed-carry statistics in the First News coverage area.

COLUMBIANA COUNTY REGULAR LICENSES Licenses issued 148 Licenses renewed 778 Licenses suspended 27 Licenses revoked 0 Licenses denied 1 License processes suspended 0

MAHONING COUNTY REGULAR LICENSES Licenses issued 437 Licenses renewed 1531 Licenses suspended 49 Licenses revoked 29 Licenses denied 38 License processes suspended 0

TRUMBULL COUNTY REGULAR LICENSES Licenses issued 238 Licenses renewed 1144 Licenses suspended 19 Licenses revoked 3 Licenses denied 8 License processes suspended 0

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JERUSALEM, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Israel will begin constructing a 1.445-billion-U.S. dollar barrier along the border with Jordan in the coming months, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Monday.

Katz outlined the plan during a tour of the Jordan Valley, stating in a video message that the 425-km barrier will stretch from the southern part of the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, through the occupied West Bank, to the Samar sands, north of Eilat, in the south of the country.

The project, expected to be completed within three years, aims "to prevent weapons smuggling and terrorism, and strengthen settlements," Katz said. He also announced plans to establish new military outposts along the barrier's route to "reinforce our hold on the area."

According to Katz, weapons smuggled from Jordan to the West Bank have been used in attacks against Israelis.

Israel has long considered a new fence along the Jordanian border. In November 2024, the Defense Ministry began detailed engineering plans following a September attack at the Allenby Bridge Crossing that killed three Israelis and a Jordanian assailant.

In the West Bank, the Israeli forces continued operations, killing dozens and causing widespread destruction over the past weeks. Meanwhile, talks appear to have stalled on the second phase of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. 
By Sonia Rolley, Giulia Paravicini and Ange Kasongo

(Reuters) - Congolese soldiers in a mix of fatigues and street clothes crowded into a chapel last week to stand trial for crimes including rape and murder allegedly committed as they fled in the face of a lightning rebel advance.

Their statements during the court martial proceedings highlighted the dysfunction of an army that has now lost more territory in eastern Congo than ever before to Rwanda-backed M23 fighters, though its woes go well beyond the rank and file.

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Testimony collected from quick-fire trials of more than 300 soldiers, interviews with three senior army officers and a confidential U.N. memo seen by Reuters paint a grim picture of a fighting force hobbled by entrenched problems such as poor pay and corruption that reform efforts have failed to resolve.

The chaos of the past few weeks has further strained the army's weak chain of command, raising risks of abuses committed against civilians, said the confidential U.N. memo providing an update on the fighting.

While President Felix Tshisekedi's government has touted efforts to recruit new soldiers and acquire new weapons, the senior officers said this has meant little for soldiers on the front lines, who they described as underpaid and underequipped.

"We are criticized but we suffer like the rest of the population," said a colonel whose troops have fought in South Kivu province.

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At the trials in Musienene last week and in the South Kivu provincial capital Bukavu earlier in February, military prosecutors pursued charges including theft, pillage, extortion and loss of war weapons.

Most of the accused acknowledged that some soldiers committed such crimes but denied they were involved, insisting they had merely been separated from their units.

One soldier, Siko Mongombo Brice, told Reuters he lost sight of his comrades after several hours of heavy fighting in North Kivu. Authorities apprehended him in the village of Kitsumbiro and accused him of desertion, which he denied.

"It wasn't a flight. We were looking for our unit," he said. "They saw us in this village, (but) we don't even know how we got there. Those who stole exist and innocent people like us exist. God alone knows the truth."

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'WE WERE BOMBED'

The trials have yielded death sentences for more than 260 soldiers, including 55 in Musienene on Friday. More than 200 escaped during a prison break that coincided with the army's retreat from Bukavu on February 14.

The army's spokesperson for the northern front, Lieutenant Colonel Mak Hazukay, said the accused soldiers had "dishonoured the army" and committed "atrocities" that could spur the population to aid the rebels' advance.

The M23 advance since late December is already the gravest escalation in more than a decade of the long-running conflict in the region, rooted in the spillover into Congo of Rwanda's 1994 genocide and the struggle for control of Congo's vast mineral resources.

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The rebels are backed by thousands of Rwandan troops, according to U.N. experts, and their superior weaponry and equipment creates a stark battlefield imbalance, officers said.

"We resisted sometimes but we were bombed a lot. The Rwandans have fearsome weapons," said the colonel, adding that allied Burundian soldiers also fled. "It's not just us."

Rwanda denies providing arms and troops to M23, and says its forces are acting in self defence against the Congolese army and militias hostile to Kigali.

It is not only Congolese foot soldiers who are fleeing.

The night before the rebels seized Goma, east Congo's largest city, the military command and provincial authorities fled by boat on Lake Kivu towards Bukavu without letting their soldiers know, the U.N. memo said.

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Such moves by military leaders are a blow to morale already deflated by salaries of around $100 per month.

This is despite the fact that military spending has risen sharply under Tshisekedi, more than doubling in 2023 to $794 million, according to financial data tallied by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.

'BETRAYED FROM WITHIN'

Tshisekedi has blamed military higher-ups for the poor performance, telling supporters the army had been "betrayed from within".

But his critics blame him for leaning heavily on regional forces and mercenaries while incorporating militias who have proved difficult to control.

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"Among these new recruits, there were thugs," one general knowledgeable about military operations in the east told Reuters.

Tshisekedi's office, responding to questions from Reuters, said some members of the armed forces did not have proper training and lacked a "sense of duty" to the nation. It stressed that the problems predated Tshisekedi and that the president "wants to do it differently".

For now, the dynamic of indiscipline continues to fuel clashes between soldiers and incorporated militias in Uvira, a city on the Burundian border, putting residents on edge.

A humanitarian source said the clashes had killed 30 and wounded more than 100 after militias tried to disarm soldiers who were fleeing.

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Generals on February 26 announced an operation to track down soldiers suspected of "intolerable acts of barbarity" in and around Uvira.

(Writing by Robbie Corey-Boulet; Editing by Silvia Aloisi and Alex Richardson)
GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT)  Congressman Don Davis announced who his special guest will be for the Presidents Address to a joint session of Congress Tuesday.

It will be Brandon Johnson, vice chairman of the Greene County Board of Education. At the announcement, Congressman Davis highlighted Johnsons leadership, career in law enforcement and dedication to education and the community.

I believe its important, you know, person from rural Eastern North Carolina making their way to D.C. is a big honor, Johnson said. You know, but I know that Congressman Davis is committed to Eastern North Carolina and so, you know, here I am serving on the school board as well.

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When you see Brandon, I believe youll see the future of Greene County and the future of Eastern North Carolina, Congressman Davis said.

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LITCHFIELD, Conn. (WWLP)  A Connecticut woman has been arrested and charged in connection with a deadly three-car crash in February 2024.

Lea Petzold, 41, of Litchfield, turned herself in to Connecticut State Police on Saturday, citing an active arrest warrant connected to the incident.

Charging documents state that on February 4, 2024, at approximately 12:01 a.m., a state trooper arrived at the area of Route 202 and Tapping Reeve Drive in Litchfield due to reports of a multiple vehicle crash.

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Connecticut Rep. Aundre Bumgardner arrested for DUI in Groton

Based on reports from all three operators, it was revealed that Petzold had struck one of the vehicles from the rear, causing it to be pushed into the travel lane due to the impact. The vehicle that had been struck then collided with a third vehicle, which veered to the right and crashed into a brick pillar.

The second operator, identified as 86-year-old Robert Rumsey, and the third operator were both brought to the hospital following the crash. Petzold and her passengers were not injured and reportedly refused treatment.

On February 7, 2024, troopers received information that Rumseys condition had worsened. Days later, the Medical Examiners Office in New York informed Connecticut State Police that Rumsey had passed away on February 10, 2024 due to complications of multiple blunt force injuries.

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Petzold, who at the time was only issued a citation, was issued a warrant for her arrest. She has now been charged with Negligent Homicide with a Motor Vehicle and Following Too Closely.

Lea Petzold (Connecticut State Police)

She is scheduled to be in Torrington Superior Court on March 14.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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U.S. President Donald Trump and Ohio Republican U.S. Senator JD Vance. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images.)

By Jeffrey Schmitt, University of Dayton

In a short few weeks, President Donald Trump has upended many core parts and functions of the U.S. government. He dismantled the U.S. Agency for International Development and fired thousands of government employees. He has also fired several inspectors general and board members of independent agencies.

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Additionally, Trumps administration has violated court orders to unfreeze federal funding. And Trump has issued an unprecedented number of executive orders, including one that aims to end the practice of birthright citizenship, something that is guaranteed by the plain text of the U.S. Constitution.

Legal experts have said that all of these actions and more are leading up to, or have already sparked, a constitutional crisis.

There is not one clear definition of what a constitutional crisis actually is. And, as constitutional law scholar Jeffrey Schmitt explains in an interview with Amy Lieberman, politics and society editor at The Conversation U.S., there is also no comparable historical example for Trumps exercise of executive power.

Why are some people calling what is currently underway a constitutional crisis?

I think legal experts are concerned that Trump is expanding executive power beyond anything we have known in American history. And as executive power continues to expand, we may eventually hit a tipping point that threatens the structure of the government, as laid out in the Constitution.

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If the Constitution has one central feature, it is the separation of powers. The Constitution divides power between the states and the federal government, and federal power is divided between the three branches of government  the executive, judicial and legislative.

Now, Trump appears to be taking over Congress core powers, including taxing and spending. Typically, Congress passes a budget, and the president can sign or veto the bill. Once the budget is passed into law, the president cannot refuse to spend the allocated money.

There is some history to this. President Richard Nixon refused in the 1970s to spend money Congress had appropriated, and the U.S. Supreme Court then ordered the federal government to spend the money. Federal law now prohibits whats called impoundment.

How is Trump challenging these laws now?

Trump is freezing spending on things he does not support politically, like foreign aid. He also is trying to place new conditions on the disbursement of federal funds as a way to control state and private institutions. For example, a recent letter from his administration threatens to withhold federal funding from schools that do not abandon DEI programs.

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Trump has also fired top officials at independent agencies such as a member of the independent National Labor Relations Board, when federal law and Supreme Court precedent indicate that he has no constitutional authority to do so. He has also fired agency watchdogs without following legal requirements to give Congress 30 days notice. When he fired most USAID employees and froze the agencys foreign aid payments, he shuttered an entire agency established by Congress.

And his firing of thousands of federal workers isnt just about who works in government  cuts like this make an agency unable to perform its mission.

The federal courts are intervening in some cases, but they are blocking only a small fraction of the presidents actions.

Are there other times in history the country has come close to a constitutional crisis?

President Abraham Lincoln and President Franklin Delano Roosevelt both led the country during periods of constitutional change, and they both clashed with the Supreme Court.

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Slavery in the federal territories was the constitutional crisis that precipitated the Civil War. This issue dominated politics throughout the 1850s because people thought it would determine the future of slavery as new states were admitted to the Union. When Congress was unable to reach an agreement, the Supreme Court held that it was unconstitutional for Congress to prohibit slavery in the territories in the infamous case of Dred Scott v. Sandford.

But opposition to the expansion of slavery was the unifying principle of the young Republican Party. So, during the election of 1860, Lincoln argued that Dred Scott was not binding on the country because it was not settled precedent. He acknowledged, though, that the courts decisions are binding in the case before it.

When Lincoln campaigned for president in 1860, he promised to appoint judges who would overrule Dred Scott and to work with Congress to ban slavery in the territories. When Lincoln realized that constitutional change was necessary, he worked tirelessly to get the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery, ratified in 1865.

Franklin Roosevelt also worked within the constitutional system to expand the role of the federal government in the New Deal, a series of domestic public works programs in the 1930s. When the Supreme Court ruled against early New Deal programs, FDR complained that the justices were old and out of touch.

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So Roosevelt in 1937 proposed packing the Supreme Court with new justices in a transparent attempt to push the court into accepting his broad reading of federal power. This proposed change never became law, but the Supreme Court changed its views on federal power at roughly the same time, ending the crisis. The country overwhelmingly supported the New Deals expansion of federal power in several national elections.

How does todays situation involving Trump differ?

Unlike Lincoln or Roosevelt, Trump is trying to seize the powers of Congress and unilaterally transform the federal government. Roosevelt worked with Congress to pass legislation and eventually convince the Supreme Court to accept his views. And while Lincoln rejected the courts proslavery reading of the Constitution, Trump may be rejecting its central feature  the structural balance of power.

Can the country resolve this crisis?

Aside from Trump deciding to change course, there is not much that can be done. Courts can issue orders, but they do not have a military and cannot easily enforce them.

Congress has the power to remove the president, via impeachment. As we learned during Trumps first term, however, impeachment is not easy.

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If the president decides to ignore the courts  and Congress continues to do nothing  the final constitutional check on Trumps power will be the next federal election.

Jeffrey Schmitt, Professor of Law, University of Dayton

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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Mar. 3DIXON  Construction of Dixon's multi-million dollar economic development project began last week as crews mobilized at Page Park in Dixon.

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Heavy equipment is seen Feb. 28, 2025, at Page Park in Dixon as Project Rock moves forward with the building of a pedestrian bridge over the Rock River. (Alex T. Paschal)

Known as Project Rock, the over $12 million development, which is primarily grant funded, will extend the multi-use path that runs west of Heritage Crossing with a pedestrian bridge over the Rock River using the old Illinois Central Railroad piers, construct an additional 2.8 miles of multi-use path and resurface just less than a mile of Page Drive, which is maintained by the Dixon Park District.

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Construction crews headed out to Page Park on Friday to get their equipment in place. Their first task is completing tree removal in preparation for the construction of the pathway that will be adjacent to Page Drive, City Manager Danny Langloss said in an interview with Shaw Local.

The multi-use path will also run through Page Park and connect to some park district facilities as well as Dixon High School. It's planned to be lined with LED lights and is intended to increase the city's walkability by acting as another mode of transportation for residents, according to a project agreement approved by the Dixon City Council at its June 17, 2024, meeting.

The city plans on putting together a tentative construction schedule and hopes to minimize disruption to any community events happening in the park during construction, Public Works Director Matt Heckman said in a previous interview with Shaw Local.

"It's a long, long project," Heckman said. "The time frame between now and final project closeout is expected to be pretty close to two years."

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It's expected to be completed by Dec. 1, 2026, according to the approved construction agreement.

The project was put out for bid in September 2024 and Willett Hofmann & Associates, an engineering consultant firm in Dixon, was selected through a qualifications-based process, which is mandated for projects that use federal dollars, Heckman said.

The majority of the project is funded by an $11.9 million grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity program.

So far, the council has agreed to contribute a total of $895,000 in local funds to its preliminary engineering and construction as part of the grant requirements, according to a resolution allocating the funds approved at the Aug. 5, 2024, City Council meeting.

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Within the city's budget, the council has allocated a total of $3 million from fiscal 2022 and 2023 "turn ins"  money that was left over after the city audit was complete  to the project, Heckman said.

The proposed fiscal 2026 budget asks the council to allocate another $1.3 million left over from the fiscal 2024 audit. It also estimates that $700,000 will be left over from fiscal 2025, which ends April 30, and asks for that money to also be allocated as well, Heckman said.

The project will complete the city's riverfront development master plan  which began in 1998. The plan includes four projects: the construction of Heritage Crossing, completed in 2009; the installation of a multi-use path that extends east along River Road from Galena Avenue to Route 2, also completed in 2009; the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program multi-use path that runs west along the Rock River, completed in July 2024; and finally Project Rock.
By Douglas Gillison and Daniel Wiessner

(Reuters) - Top officials at the embattled U.S. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau have not allowed staff to resume supervising financial companies despite committing to engage in all legally-required work, according to an internal email seen by Reuters.

The apparent decision to keep supervision inert could run counter to claims the CFPB has made in court that it remains committed to meeting its legal obligations. The agency has denied in court papers that intends to abolish the agency completely, arguing that some of its functions are continuing.

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In an email sent on Monday, Cassandra Huggins, a top official in the CFPB's division of supervision, said senior officials at the agency had confirmed that supervisory work is not to resume, despite staff being told one day prior that they should still be carrying out all legally mandatory work.

"We have requested and received clarification that their message was not intended to authorize the reinstatement of supervision/examination activity, even though the Bureau is required by law to carry out these activities," Huggins wrote, according to a copy seen by Reuters.

The CFPB is the only federal agency with the power to supervise non-bank financial institutions for compliance with consumer financial law. The CFPB also has primary authority to police consumer financial protection laws in larger banks.

Huggins' message comes one day after a separate internal message from Mark Paoletta, the top lawyer at the CFPB, who said he was writing to be certain "everyone is carrying out any statutorily required work."

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According to a copy of that email seen by Reuters, Paoletta emphasized staff should be fulfilling legally required duties amid a broader effort to halt other work at the agency.

A spokesperson for the agency said Monday that it is false that staff have been told not to resume supervisory work and noted that Paoletta's email "says the exact opposite."

Staff had previously been ordered to halt supervision and examination activity by acting director Russell Vought.

On Monday, government lawyers appeared in federal court in Washington, D.C., to oppose a bid by a union representing CFPB workers, consumer advocacy organizations and others seeking a court order blocking the dismantling of the agency.

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In court papers, top CFPB officials have said the agency remains committed to meeting its obligations under the law, rejecting arguments that by idling the majority of the agency's staff and canceling the bulk of its contracts, the Trump administration is violating the law.

Instead, the Trump administration and Republican critics of the agency argue it has overstepped its authority in the past and should be drastically curtailed.

During a February 14 hearing on the lawsuit, the Trump administration agreed to temporarily refrain from firing more of the agency's staff, pending further litigation. The administration also agreed not to destroy or remove any of the agency's vast quantities of sensitive consumer and commercial data or transfer any of its available funds back to the U.S. Federal Reserve.

At Monday's hearing, U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson seemed poised to extend the block on CFPB from firing workers or taking other actions that would imperil its most critical functions required by federal law, such as responding to consumer complaints and conducting research.

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Jackson pushed back against a U.S. Department of Justice lawyer's claims that issuing such an order would amount to improper "wholesale oversight of agency management" by the court.

"I think what we're talking about is interim oversight to make sure that (the bureau) hasn't been shirked out of its very existence before I get to rule on the merits, Jackson, an appointee of Democratic former President Barack Obama, said to the lawyer, Liam Holland.

Jackson scheduled a hearing for March 10 when both sides can present evidence and testimony about the work still being done at the CFPB. The judge said that CFPB Chief Operating Officer Adam Martinez will testify.

Jackson will then decide whether to block the bureau from taking certain actions, pending the outcome of the lawsuit.

(Reporting by Douglas Gillison, Daniel Wiessner and Chris Prentice, Editing by Alexia Garamfalvi and Nick Zieminski)
After the devastating California wildfires earlier this winter, the East Coast is having its share of fires raging through communities.

North and South Carolina communities are working to contain dozens of wildfires across the two states. With high winds predicted this week across the South, there are concerns of how the wildfires could spread or if new ones could spark.

The National Park Service, which has been hit hard with recent federal layoffs, announced burn bans in major national parks in both states and in Tennessee.

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"The fire ban will be in effect until further notice on both the Tennessee and North Carolina sides of the park. This is consistent with the Sevier County burn ban and the National Weather Service Red Flag Warning in our area," read a release from the Park Service at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Here's everything you need to know about the Carolina wildfires and fire danger conditions in Tennessee.

What is a red flag warning? National Weather Service issues one for East Tennessee

A red flag warning comes when conditions are right for fire.

According to the National Weather Service, the warning means warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.

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A red flag warning has been issued for much of East Tennessee by the weather service and remains in effect through Tuesday, with a high wind watch for Tuesday night into Wednesday. There are still some fire concerns heading into Tuesday night, but widespread rain is expected to hit the mountains of East Tennessee after midnight.

Where are the wildfires in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster issued a state of emergency Sunday as more than 4,200 acres of land burned due to 175 fires across the state, according to reports from USA TODAY. One of the major fires is on the coast in the Myrtle Beach area, where evacuations were ordered over the weekend as it continued to burn through beach communities.

"This state of emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need, McMaster said in a statement.

A fire in the Carolina Forest, a community west of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, blew up to encompass almost 1,600 acres with crews battling the blaze as best as possible. As of Sunday afternoon, the fire was 30% contained, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

Where are the wildfires in North Carolina?

North Carolina isn't seeing the quantities of fires that South Carolina is, but there are several burning in Western North Carolina not all that far from the Tennessee border.

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On Sunday, fires continued to burn near Tryon and Saluda, N.C., about 40 miles from Asheville, North Carolina, and 74 miles from the Tennessee border. The fire has engulfed around 400 acres and remains uncontained, according to reports from Polk County, N.C., Emergency Management.

The cause of the blaze? The fire department in Saluda said in a statement on Facebook that the fire appeared to have been started "by a downed power line."

Map of where the wildfires in the Carolinas, United States are

You can see where the latest wildfires are in the Carolinas and across the United States below.

Are there any burn bans for counties in Tennessee?

As of Monday morning, Tennessee had not issued any burn bans for counties in the Volunteer State.

This article originally appeared on Knoxville News Sentinel: Could wildfires in Carolinas affect Tennessee? Red flag warning issued
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has slashed its workforce under the direction of President Donald Trump and DOGE, the governmental efficiency department led by Elon Musk, as part of their widespread efforts to cut costs for the federal government.

Hundreds of employees, including meteorologists in National Weather Service offices across the U.S., were fired last Thursday.

Winter weather, high surf advisories issued as rain, snow falls in San Diego

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On Monday, a spokesperson for NWS confirmed to FOX 5/KUSI there were no cuts made to San Diegos local office.

The office, located in Rancho Bernardo, delivers critical weather alerts for people across the county, including the high surf and winter weather advisories issued Monday.

However, the impact of the layoffs may be felt locally in other ways, especially in research.

NOAA was a known benefactor of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego, the site of modern-day climate change research. In fiscal year 2023-2024, Scripps received 14% ($41.7 million) of funding from the agency for its research.

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Scientists from NOAA and Scripps have partnered closely together over the years. For example, in 2020, the federal agency chose the university to host the Cooperative Institute for Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Systems (CIMEAS), which included an award of up to $220 million over five years.

Sick of winter? Spring weather predictions released by NOAA

Then, last June, scientists at both NOAA and Scripps announced that carbon dioxide is accumulating faster than ever and measured the highest level in millions of years at NOAAs Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii.

It may be too early to tell just how much the slashed NOAA workforce will impact programs at Scripps, or weather forecasting in the region.

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NOAA joins several other agencies seeing reductions by the federal government, including Veterans Affairs, the Department of Energy, the Small Business Administration and the Office of Personnel Management.

President Trump required that Agency Heads shall promptly undertake preparations to initiate large-scale reductions in force (RIFs), consistent with applicable law,' a memorandum from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget on Feb. 26 stated.

It added agencies are required to develop reorganization plans no later than March 13.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
The traditional equestrian performance for the Tibetan New Year was held in Lhasa, capital city of Xizang, on March 2. Always held on the third day of the Tibetan New Year, it is a long-standing tradition, blending modernity with tradition.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  Regional and state fire rescue crews in South Carolina on Monday continued to battle the Carolina Forest-area wildfires, according to Horry County Fire Rescue.

Heavy smoke was in the area, with very low visibility, HCFR said. In addition, Horry County, South Carolina, was under an air quality alert from the National Weather Service until further notice.

The alert says fine particulate concentrations within Horry County, particularly near Carolina Forest, may approach or exceed unhealthy standards due to local wildfire smoke in the Myrtle Beach area.

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The South Carolina Forestry Commission continued to assist with airplane water drops, plows, and strengthening and cutting lines as crews worked toward containment. There were two additional helicopter resources dropping water as well.

HCFR crews were conducting flying reconnaissance with drones as well as on-site visual reconnaissance with supervisors to aid in response.

Crews battled wildfires in North and South Carolina on Sunday amid dry conditions and gusty winds as residents were forced to evacuate in some areas.

Courtesy SCDOT Courtesy SCDOT Courtesy SCDOT

The National Weather Service warned of increased fire danger in the region due to a combination of critically dry fuels and very low relative humidity.

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Dozens of people had checked into a Red Cross shelter as crews worked to contain the fires on Sunday. Along with Horry Countys massive wildfire, roughly 175 smaller wildfires had broken out across the state, impacting 4,200 acres of land, according to the state Fire Marshal.

By Sunday afternoon, all but two of the fires were 100% contained. The smaller of the two  the Blackthorn Drive Fire  was 80% contained, according to the South Carolina Forest Commission. It has covered about 800 acres.

Gov. Henry McMaster on Sunday declared a state of emergency to support South Carolinas ongoing response. The order continues indefinitely an outdoor burning ban and makes it easier for responders to coordinate their efforts.

This state of emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need, McMaster said in a statement.

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Despite nearly 2,000 acres burning in Horry County, officials say nobody has been injured or killed, and no structures have been lost, State Rep. Tim McGinnis, R-Myrtle Beach, said in a Facebook post.

Around 11:50 p.m. Saturday, officials announced evacuations for the Indigo Bay, the Farm, and Summerlyn neighborhoods of Carolina Forest. Earlier Saturday evening, evacuation orders were lifted in some areas even as flames were visible on the horizon.

In North Carolina, the U.S. Forest Service said fire crews were working to contain multiple wildfires burning in four forests across the state on Sunday. The largest, about 400 acres, was at Uwharrie National Forest, about 50 miles east of Charlotte. The Forest Service said Sunday afternoon that it had made progress on the fire, reaching about one-third containment.

The small southwestern town of Tryon in Polk County, North Carolina, urged some residents to evacuate Saturday as a fire spread rapidly there. The evacuations remained in effect Sunday. A decision on whether to lift them was expected Monday after intentional burns were set to try to stop the fire from spreading.

Photo courtesy of South Carolina National Guard

That fire has burned about 500 acres as of late Sunday, with zero percent containment, according to the Polk County Emergency Management/Fire Marshals office. The North Carolina Forest Service was conducting water drops and back-burning operations on the ground, and area residents should expect a lot of smoke during those operations, officials said.

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Officials have not said what caused any of the fires.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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(WHTM)  Multiple fires broke out across parts of the Midstate this weekend.

The National Weather Service issuing an alert Sunday saying theres an elevated wildfire risk because of dry, windy conditions and low humidity.

My wife said there was smoke, unbelievable smoke, said Vance Fertenbaugh of Cumberland County.

Fertenbaugh lives in Monroe Township  about a half mile away from where a fire broke out on Highfield Court Sunday morning.

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So, we came in as a non-dwelling fire, said Jonathan McKinzie, Deputy Fire Chief of the Monroe Fire Company. Which turned out to be a garage, a detached garage here in Monroe township that was at the time we arrived fully involved.

McKinzie says one person was taken to the hospital due to smoke inhalation, but they are expected to be okay.

The National Weather Services alert said in part, A combination of dry and breezy conditions this afternoon will create an elevated risk of wildfire spread across southeast Pennsylvania, yet McKinzie told abc27 the weather actually assisted their battle against these flames.

Due to the direction of the wind on this house, it actually helped us keep a lot of the fire off of the house, which made a big difference, he said. And preventing the spread of this fire.

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It wasnt the only fire crews dealt with Sunday.

On Sunday morning, crews in Dauphin County battled a mobile home fire at Cedar Manor in Londonderry Township.

While no one was injured, according to a Londonderry Fire Company Facebook post, two people were displaced and eight cats and two chinchillas didnt survive.

Then just before 11 a.m. dozens of crews in York County responded to a house fire on Bremer Road.

Two adults and one child were displaced with no injuries.

There are investigations underway for all these fires.

This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A cruise ship carrying 158 passengers and crew members with norovirus docked in Florida on Saturday.

The Holland America Eurodam returned to Port Everglades after a 10-day trip around the Caribbean.

Florida man accused of beating girl with dryer cable, forcing children to kill pet pig

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention began monitoring a norovirus outbreak on the ship on Feb. 23. The CDC report states 148 out of 2,057 passengers, or 7%, were sick. The illness affected 10 of 834 crew members, or 1.2%.

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Those affected by the illness reported experiencing vomiting and diarrhea, which was determined to be caused by norovirus.

In response to the outbreak, the cruise line reported that it isolated sick passengers, upped its sanitization procedures and consulted with health officials to monitor the spread of the illness.

The most recent Holland America Line outbreak is the fifth cruise ship norovirus outbreak tracked by the CDC this year. The Holland America Rotterdam docked in Florida on Feb. 14 with 169 norovirus patients.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Setting up a showdown with the legislature, Gov. Ned Lamont announced Monday that he would veto $40 million in spending for special education and $2.8 million for nonprofits that are threatened with spending cuts by Republican President Donald Trump.

Lamont is employing his powers by using a line-item veto, which allows other sections of two separate bills to remain intact. Those measures were both passed last week by wide margins in the General Assembly.

Lamont had said repeatedly that he did not favor additional spending in the middle of the fiscal year, which ends on June 30. Traditionally, the governor and the legislature set the budget before the year begins, and they try to avoid adding any more spending until the year is complete.

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Lamont has been highly concerned about sticking to the states fiscal guardrails, which includes a spending cap that has helped the state roll up large surpluses since he took office in 2019.

Im 71 years old, Lamont told reporters at the state Capitol in Hartford. I dont have to compromise my principles.

Lamont said he was surprised that the spending had been approved quickly by the state House of Representatives and the Senate while he was away for a week on a trade mission in India.

I think its the wrong way to budget  buy it now, pay later, well figure out how well do it, Lamont said. Thats just the type of budgeting that got this state into the ditch over the last 20 years.  Youve got to start with an honestly balanced budget, and Im not going to compromise on that. Thats been my North Star for five years. Weve done it, and I think its made a difference.  Dont snap the guardrails. Keep whats made this state strong. The guardrails have served us very well.

Potential override

The question now is whether the Democratic-controlled legislature, which has worked relatively smoothly with Lamont for the past six years, will override the veto. Since Lamont took office, his fellow Democrats have not overridden any of his vetoes.

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Senate President Martin Looney of New Haven and Senate y Leader Bob Duff of Norwalk said they are disappointed by the veto and will be discussing whether to attempt an override.

This funding is essential to ensuring that children  regardless of the scope of need  receive the quality education they deserve, they said. Lets be clear: this funding is about our support for education right now. Not in 2026, not in 2027. Right now, the state has the resources to afford this investment in our children, and right now, our towns need this funding. We project a $356 million surplus and an additional $1.4 billion available from the volatility cap adjustment. This spending on special education in no way violates the spending cap or fiscal guardrails. It is both fiscally responsible and morally necessary to allocate these funds to meet the pressing needs of our communities at a time when the special education caseload is growing throughout the state.

House Republican leader Vincent Candelora of North Branford said that Lamont is essentially a day late and a dollar short, saying that Lamonts timing is like a basketball coach drawing up a game plan in the fourth quarter when his team is already down by 30.

Candelora added, Municipalities are under immense financial pressure to cover costs as the fiscal year winds down. It didnt have to be this way. House Republicans sounded the alarm last spring, proposing a budget that paired common-sense spending reductions with fully funding the special education excess cost grant for cities and towns. Instead, Democratsbacked by the governorignored it, choosing to funnel money into higher education. That decision directly led to the crisis the legislature scrambled to address last week with $40 million in emergency funding.

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Patrice McCarthy, general counsel for the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education, said that the public schools need the money immediately as the school year ends in June.

The governor is right  we can figure things out as the state budget takes shape for the next two years, but local boards of education need funding right now for the current school year, McCarthy said.

Kate Dias, president of the states largest teachers union, says the legislature must override if necessary.

Connecticut is one of the wealthiest states in the country, with a $356.4 million budget surplus, said Dias, leader of the Connecticut Education Association. Yet the governor is choosing to deny funding to students who need it most. That is unacceptable.

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Dias added, We urge the governor to reconsider. If he does not, we ask our legislators to stand by their original vote and override this veto. Our most vulnerable students cannot wait another two

years for help. Lets make it happen.

The vetoes would block $2.8 million in supplemental grants for more than 20 organizations, including $800,000 for Planned Parenthood of Southern New England. Three of the largest grants had been for $387,500 for the Hartford Gay and Lesbian Health Collective, Inc. and $225,000 each for the New Haven Gay and Lesbian Community Center and Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services, Inc.

Override history

Veto overrides are rare because they require a two-thirds vote of both chambers of the legislature: 24 votes in the Senate and 101 votes in the House of Representatives. The Democrats control the House by 102-49, meaning that the override could be blocked if some moderate Democrats join with all Republicans.

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When compared to the hundreds of bills that pass each year, veto overrides are relatively rare in Connecticut.

Govs. William A. ONeill and John G. Rowland both served 10 years in office and never had any vetoes overridden. During the past 75 years, Gov. Lowell P. Weicker had the most vetoes overturned, with 17, while Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell had 16 overturned by a Democratic legislature during 6 1/2 years in office.

At one point, there were no overrides in at least 13 consecutive years from 1994 through 2007.

So far, Democrats have deferred to Lamont. Lawmakers lacked the high bar of two-thirds votes to overturn Lamonts previous vetoes that included measures on solitary confinement, probate orders, and two land conveyance bills.

Christopher Keating can be reached at ckeating@courant.com
A Connecticut veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps was five days away from securing permanent employment status at the Internal Revenue Service when he became one of thousands fired from his department on Feb. 20 as a result of President Trumps orders.

The firing has been devastating for Gabriel DAlatri, 30, and his family. DAlatri will be given a platform to tell his story as he will be U.S. Rep. Joseph Courtneys guest at President Trumps Joint Address to Congress on Tuesday.

DAlatri job was one of thousands of IRS probationary workers laid off on Feb. 20 as part of Trumps executive order of Feb. 11, Implementing The Presidents Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimization Initiative.

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DAlatri, a disabled Marine veteran and a new father, was a facilities management consultant at the IRS.

It was tough, DAlatri said, of when he learned he was fired. I went to work that week thinking I wasnt going to be affected by the layoffs. I had gotten confirmation by my boss that I wasnt on a probation list because I was a veteranbut I got thrown out the door a couple of hours later. My boss called me the night before the 20th that I was on the second list and that I had to go in Thursday morning the 20th and hand everything in.

DAlatri said he had an hour to hand everything in but stayed longer to obtain his termination letter.

I still havent gotten my SF-8, which is your official termination letter from the federal government, DAlatri said. It was kind of a quick process, and the emotions didnt set in until the day after. I was just so concerned getting my equipment back in and not getting in trouble for that and getting them the proper documentation. Luckily, me staying around an extra 10 minutes allowed me to get my termination letter. I have everything I need to fight this.

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DAlatri joined the Marines shortly out of high school. His older brother Giulio had previously enrolled in the Marines. DAlatri said they both felt a duty to serve the country.

This country has given so much to my family. They had to go through living in poverty and it was tough for my family, DAlatri said. We felt like we were in the position to give the country something. We love our country. We were 9-11 kids in a sense. We were young when that happened. That stuck home with us. We always wanted to serve our country. We have always been big history guys.

During his service, DAlatri was promoted to lance corporal after receiving top marks at the Marine Corps Motor Transportation School at Fort Leonard Wood.

I felt no nerves about joining the Marine Corps. I met some great friends there, DAlatri said. A well-run Marine Corps means your country is going to be safe. Ive always been a firm believer in that.

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The brothers were both medically discharged following injuries during their tours of duty.

After the military, DAlatri used his G.I. Bill to attend UConn. After graduation, he worked in the private sector before accepting a job at the IRS.

But it didnt fulfill me like it did in the Marine Corps thats why I decided to go into the federal civilian workforce, and I stand strong for it, and I think its a key component to our country, DAlatri said.

In February 2024, he started working with the IRS as a project manager providing support to IRS facilities across New England. DAlatri was scheduled to be promoted to a permanent employee on Feb. 25 but was laid off five days short of that date.

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The job loss added stress to a growing young family. DAlatri and his wife, Sarah, have a six-month-old daughter Carmella.

Luckily, my wife is a registered dental hygienist and is able to work and provide income for the family as well. Its not as crippling as it could be, but it still is crippling. She just had a baby six months ago and it wasnt in our plans to send her back to work so quickly, he said. We wanted to let her heal from the whole ordeal of childbirth and let her chill out for a couple of months. Its going to be cut short if I cant get my job back. Im hoping I do.

It was a big hit the family. We were planning on spending a lot of money in the economy getting a new house and a new SUV to keep the baby safe. Its a lot of money that was going to go into the economy that is no longer going into the economy, he said.

Courtney said DAlatri is one of nearly 6,000 veterans who have been a part of the recent purge of the federal workforce and said he is working to ty to reinstate the workers.

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Courtney said his office his office has been getting waves of calls from constitutes with high anxiety with the cuts being made by DOGE but said DAlatris call stood out as a terrible egregious example of how the DOGE process is so feckless and mindless.

He was days from becoming a permanent employee, Courtney said. He had been recruited to the government from a veterans program. He had perfect performance scores and was terminated because of this arbitrary process that identifies probationary employees as somehow nonessential or nonperforming. It was flatly inaccurate.

Courtney said he gets one ticket for a guest to bring to the speech and thought the exposure would help DAlatri in his effort to try to get his job back.

I thought this would also put a spotlight on that there is just way too much of this going on, Courtney said.

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The stories about nuclear security employees who were completely dismissed shows that what is going on is dangerous, the lawmaker said. Its also harmful for a guy like Gabe who is basically setting up facilities to help taxpayers get free help for their filing and keeping the agency functioning, which is what his job was.

Courtney said in the past the Trump Administration has backtracked when the ridiculousness of their actions is exposed in the public domain.

Thats something we want to help Gabe with, Courtney said.

Hes working with his union about a grievance process and exploring other legal options that could be availableAgain, there has been instances where the administration has had to retreat in terms of some of these firings. There are also other options that leader (U.S. Rep.) Hakeem Jeffries is looking at. We are coming up to a government shutdown on March 14 and unfortunately there is not enough negotiating going on with the two sides to use that as a vehicle to help people like Gabe.

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When Gabe comes to Washington theres going to be an opportunity to hopefully interact with staff in D.C. to tell his story as well as with the media, Courtney said.

Courtney is a co-sponsor of the Protect Veteran Jobs Act, which would require any veteran who was removed or otherwise dismissed from civil service after January 20, 2025, to be eligible to get their job back. Courtney also was among the more than 100 lawmakers that sent a letter to rebuke Elon Musks Five Things email.

Courtney also sent a letter addressing buyout offers for federal workers in eastern Connecticut in support of their work and for them to scrutinize the offer. He is also a co-sponsor of the Saving the Civil Service Act to protect federal employees from political attacks.

We get calls from federal employees into the office on high anxiety and high alert because they know what they know what is happening in the system and Gabe is living and breathing proof of that, Courtney said.

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DAlatri said hes eager to share his story with whomever will listen.

This is affecting me personally and this is a personal goal for me to get my job back or to find other employment within the government or state government or something like that, DAlatri said.

Im getting a platform to go to D.C. and speak about how many veterans are in our federal workforce. Its about one third of the federal workforce, 660,000 veterans employed through our federal workforce. Our Vvce president (JD Vance) is a Marine Corps veteran like myself. He was stationed in the same air station that I was stationed. I would like to think in my head that they are not OK with this happening.

Im hoping the administration can reverse this as fast as they put it on, he added. Clearly, they were on a fast pace to put these executive orders in, who is to say they cant put in another executive order to rehire all of the veterans. I know there is a bill that the congressman (Courtney) supports to rehire veterans. Im in full support of that and Im thankful the congressman is bringing me down to D.C. with him and Im going to hopefully get my voice heard by everybody.

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DAlatri said he is going to Washington D.C. as a non-partisan person that will talk to anyone from any party about his story.

In my mind, veterans are non-partisan issue, DAlatri said. I dont think you want to be tagged with any political party. Im going down to be a mediator between the two parties. Im willing to do that and get the word out that nobody should be OK with this. This should be corrected immediately. Im thankful to the congressman for this opportunity and I will never forget this.
Mayoral candidate and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo took sharp aim at progressives during a Sunday stop on what he hopes will be his political comeback tour.

We are here today for one reason: We love New York, and we know New York is in trouble, Cuomo said Sunday, a day after he announced in a video that hed be entering the Democratic primary for mayor.

We dont need stats, you can feel it, Cuomo said, speaking at the New York City District Council of Carpenters Union Hall in downtown Manhattan. When you walk down the street and see the homeless mentally ill. When you walk into the subway and can feel the anxiety rise up in your chest.

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Cuomo added, These politicians now wanting to be mayor made a terrible, terrible mistake. They uttered the three dumbest words ever uttered by a government official: Cut police funding.'

Cuomo, who resigned as governor in 2021 amid sexual harassment allegations, enters a crowded field to challenge Mayor Adams, whos been embroiled in scandals surrounding his federal corruption indictment last September.

It includes including city Comptroller Brad Lander, former Comptroller Scott Stringer, Queens Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, former Bronx Assemblyman Michael Blake and state Sens. Zellnor Myrie of Brooklyn and Jessica Ramos of Queens.

Progressive politicians pushed in 2020 for slashing at least $1 billion from the NYPDs budget in favor of reallocating more resources for social services, after the city and the nation was rocked by the police murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

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Under Adams, crime overall dropped this year compared with when he took office in January 2022, but remains higher than prepandemic rates and when compared with all of former Mayor Bill de Blasios eight years in office, NYPD data show.

On Sunday, Cuomo also challenged these democratic socialist candidates that released a wave of antisemitism throughout our city, referring to 2024 pro-Palestine protests.

The 20,000-member carpenters union made official its endorsement of Cuomo, just days after Politico reported the labor union would likely line up behind the former governor.

Cuomo resigned as governor after being accused of sexually harassing 13 women, allegations the U.S. Department of Justices civil rights division corroborated in a bombshell settlement last year. Cuomo has denied committing any misconduct.

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He seemed to obliquely reference the scandal during the Sunday event, saying: You hit a tough spot in life, which is inevitable that something is going to happen, and you hit that tough spot, and you know what? Then you really find out who your friends are.

Hes also faced harsh criticism over his decision to understate the number of New Yorkers who died from COVID-19 in nursing homes in the state after he enacted a policy in early 2020 prohibiting such facilities from denying entry for residents diagnosed with the virus.
(Bloomberg) -- The groundwork for Andrew Cuomos bid for New York City mayor was laid as he made his way through power breakfasts at the Loews Regency, Upper East Side living rooms and the 92nd Street Y.

Most Read from Bloomberg

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Now, many of the wealthy and powerful in New York are lining up behind him.

Ken Langone, Anthony Scaramucci and Marc Lasry are in. They see in the former New York governor a version of themselves: a chief executive with a no-nonsense, get-things-done demeanor wholl stay focused on what they consider the urgent priorities of public safety on streets and subways, as well as homelessness and affordability.

Ive known Andrew a long time, said Lasry, the CEO and co-founder of investment firm Avenue Capital Group. I think he did a very good job as governor, and I think hell do a great job as mayor.

Cuomo, in his formal mayoral announcement on Saturday, zeroed in on New Yorkers biggest concerns. The city just feels threatening, out of control and in crisis, he said. I know what needs to be done, and I know how to do it.

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His decision to run, rumored for more than a year, upends the already-crowded Democratic primary. Polls have shown the former three-term governor with double-digit leads over the other challengers, including incumbent Eric Adams, city Comptroller Brad Lander and former Comptroller Scott Stringer. Adams, whose administration has been at the center of a slew of corruption probes, has been battling calls from other leaders to step down.

Im appreciative of Mayor Adams but he has too many problems that the city doesnt need to take on for another term, said former Goldman Sachs Group Inc. CEO Lloyd Blankfein.

Voters are weighing whether Adams, the first sitting mayor in the citys modern history to be charged with a federal crime, is fit for a second term. Criticism of the mayor exploded after President Donald Trumps Justice Department directed Manhattan prosecutors to drop their bribery charges against him, raising questions about Trumps potential leverage over the mayors agenda.

While not that fun to deal with when Cuomo was New Yorks attorney general probing Goldman Sachs and other firms, he is smart, capable and pragmatic, a competent executive, Blankfein said.

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On Sunday, Cuomo looked very much the part of the top executive on weekend duty, in an appearance at the headquarters of the NYC District Council of Carpenters in Manhattan. He wore a navy blazer and white dress shirt, without a tie, and light-colored pants, as he spoke to a crowd filled with union members.

Cuomo, in his remarks, emphasized what he will do for working people in New York as he accepted the unions endorsement.

He didnt mention Trump by name during his comments, and business leaders in interviews have said they werent preoccupied about him needing to stand up to the president.

The reason I like Andrew is I know his focus is going to be on helping New York and New Yorkers, Lasry said.

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Blankfein concurred. I want the next mayor of NYC to be able to work with President Trump and not just be looking for a fight the way some other candidates are positioning themselves, he said. Trump is a New Yorker and wants to make New York City successful. Therell be plenty of disagreements but much more common ground to focus on.

The business leaders do want Cuomo to take on far-left politicians in the City Council. For example, the council has decriminalized quality-of-life crimes, such as public drinking, and imposed new mandates on employers that add to costs and exposure.

The city should elect people who will advance economic development and efficiency and not ultra progressives that seem to block progress at every turn, Blankfein said.

Cuomo, whose father was three-term New York governor Mario Cuomo, comes with some baggage. As governor, he signed a bail-reform law that some have blamed for the up-tick in crimes by repeat offenders. His budgets repeatedly took millions of dollars out of the MTAs operating funds, and he cut funding for a city rental assistance program that precipitated a surge in the citys homeless population.

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He also shocked New Yorks political establishment by resigning in August 2021, shortly after state Attorney General Letitia James released a lengthy report detailing allegations of sexual harassment against him by several women, including some who had been state employees at the time of the alleged acts, one a state trooper.

Cuomo has denied the claims, and spent years battling in court against some of the women who accused him.

At the event on Sunday, women from the Working Families Party gathered to protest Cuomos candidacy.

We refuse to accept the choice of just electing another scandal-ridden politician like Andrew Cuomo, said Ana Maria Archila, an organizer. The women here are not suffering from collective amnesia.

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Cuomo will have to litigate whatever the past grievances are against him, said Scaramucci, the founder of investment firm SkyBridge Capital who had a brief stint in Trumps first administration. In some cases, hell probably need more time to get his side of the story out.

Scaramucci has also made a small donation as a friend to Whitney Tilson, another contender for the Democratic nomination. The former hedge fund manager has polled in the low single-digits.

Im all in on Cuomo, Scaramucci said by phone. Im going to spend time raising him capital, providing him media advocacy. Im going to try to rally the business community, the restaurant community.

An alternative to Cuomo for business-minded voters may come from Ed Skyler, a Citigroup Inc. executive who had served as deputy mayor in the administration of Michael R. Bloomberg, the majority owner of Bloomberg News parent Bloomberg LP.

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While he hasnt yet decided to run, Skyler recently switched his registration to Independent from Republican to keep the option open, according to people familiar with his thinking. Skyler oversaw critical functions like fire and police while in public service. In his time at Citi, hes joined key civic boards including the Hospital for Special Surgery.

In the business community, there is general disillusion with the political climate in New York, said Kathy Wylde, CEO of the Partnership for New York City, which represents interests of executives across sectors. Most business people would welcome a technocrat into the race for mayor.

More than a dozen events for Cuomos bid are shaping up in the coming weeks, including with public relations executive and filmmaker Dan Klores and fashion industry icon Fern Mallis.

Some of these people are coming off similar work for the Democratic presidential race. Former Vice President Kamala Harris loss to Trump has left them unsure what comes next for the party.

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Dems just suffered a serious blow at the national level, said Jennifer Bayer Michaels, a senior advisor to the campaign. With Cuomos announcement, we see palpable enthusiasm that gives me hope for the future of the party.

And its not just Democrats being drawn in.

Simone Levinson, a longtime independent who backed Nikki Haleys bid for president, will be one of the hosts for a Cuomo breakfast on Friday. She served on two commissions when Cuomo was governor.

Hes uniquely qualified for the job of righting the ship of New York City at this moment, she said. Hes a consensus builder with a back bone and his experience is incomparable.

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--With assistance from Laura Nahmias.

(Updates with comments from Anthony Scaramucci.)

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ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  Cynthia Alvidrez is making her fourth run for Abilene leadership, saying she remains frustrated with city leadership and is motivated by concerns over transparency, infrastructure and taxpayer representation.

Abilene City Council candidates draw ballot positions for May election

Having previously run for mayor in 2020 and for other seats in 2019 and 2023, Alvidrez says she isnt happy with the current administration, which has motivated her to run for Place 5.

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One of the major events that affected my decision was what happened to a gentleman in our community, who goes by the name of Eddie Pugh, he had his constitutional rights violated. A lot of people dont realize, when you go up to city council, the same thing is happening there. The most difficult thing for a taxpayer to do, or a taxpayer like me to do, is to get anything on the agenda, Alvidrez explained. So I feel like, in a way, thats also a violation of our constitutional rights. But theres a couple of other things that are happening in the community that have grabbed my attention, and so I want to run again, because Im still not happy. Im still not happy with what theyre doing up at City Hall.

Through her campaigns, Alvidrez says shes learned a lot about how the city operates.

Ive learned that Abilene is a business. People make a lot of money off of taxpayer dollars. Theres certain groups that run the town, right? So you would assume that city council would be fair. You would assume that youd be able to get your items on the agenda. You would assume that your particular parts of town have representation. But when you actually follow the Abilene city council, you realize that none of that is true, Alvidrez said.

Cynthia Alvidrez files for Abilene City Council seat once again

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She believes influence plays a bigger role than fairness in city decision-making.

Im connecting some dots here. Its not what you can prove here in Abilene, its really who you know. I mean, its a little bit of what you can prove, but its really who you know here and who you upset here, and who you call out here. Because if you make the wrong move here, youll be completely cut out of the city council, Alvidrez shared. Again, your things wont get on the agenda. Thats how you get representation. Youve got to get it on the agenda first. Theyre blocking certain taxpayers, to include myself, from even getting things on the agenda, so youll never get anything fixed, because you cant even get on to discuss it, much less vote on it, to approve it.

Alvidrez listed her occupation on the ballot as a homemaker, though she says her community efforts have saved taxpayers millions upon millions of dollars.

As far as describing my role and contributions to the community, Ive been able to save the taxpayers millions upon millions of dollars. That one being that Im able to get money allocated towards infrastructure because our infrastructure is falling apart. You have millions and millions of dollars in our general budget, but yet were asking for bonds, and then were issuing certificates of obligations for a hotel. That isnt a need, its a want. Our water and our sewer bonds were sold on the market. Not a lot of people know that, Alvidrez explained. Ive been able to allocate, get money allocated to certain things that every taxpayer will benefit from, and then to just holding people accountable, not just folks up at city council, but you know, my neighbors, because there for a little while, I was beating the city up, and I was going after city council, and I was going out to the police department, and I was like, You know what? Maybe we are part of the problem. So then I took it out to the community. Im like, there are some problems here that we need to work on Im doing what city council members who got elected to do cant even do. Im a homemaker. Im a single mom that doesnt have anything better to do, other than get millions upon millions of dollars allocated towards infrastructure.

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Outside of her role as a mother, Alvidrez is known for sharing information with the community about city matters. She says her motivation comes from uncovering the intentions behind certain city decisions and from instincts she developed as a Veteran.

One of them was to kind of see, okay, well, is our police department just going after people just because they want to harass them? Is the city council going after certain peoples homes because they just want their property? So I took it out to the community to kind of see, okay, well, lets kind of give the city council the benefit of the doubt. Lets give the Abilene Police Department the benefit of the doubt and kind of see whats going on in the streets, Alvidrez said. Were all kind of at fault. The community is at fault when youre talking about certain things, the city councils at fault, the police departments at fault, because were all people. I think thats one of the things that motivates me to kind of go out in the community and kind of see whats going on.

Longtime Abilene Councilman Kyle McAlister to defend seat in May election

Being active in the community, she says, helps her stay informed and assist others.

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Another thing is that Im a Veteran. Im an Army veteran, and what they taught us in the Army is, you stay alert, you stay alive, you know. So there was a little while we had fires going off in our neighborhood, and thats really where the Facebook page started taking off. I dont know if you remember the St. Anns Catholic Hospital right there on Hickory, caught fire twice in one week. You cannot sleep whenever you have fires going up like that, especially as a single mom, when Im trying to figure out, how am I going to get three kids out of this house whenever this piece of property has been turned into code enforcement, I cant tell you how many times, and now its going up in flames, Alvidrez explained. Being out in the community the way that I am allows me to stay alert and advocate on behalf of people. Because there are people who contact me and maybe they have a pothole on their street, or maybe there is issue with code, or maybe you have individuals who have found themselves homeless now theyre breaking in next door, and whatever ends up being on social media. If its something that needed to be fixed, its been fixed nine times out of 10.

If Alvidrez were to give the current city council a grade, she says it would be a flat-out F.

Theyre failing. Theyre not the ones that are bringing the companies here. Thats the DCOA. Theyre just approving it. The City Council to me, I dont know if theyre just that ignorant that they dont know what theyre doing, or if theyre bought out, because weve had companies that come in and theyre adding to the tax base, but yet we got our infrastructure still falling apart, Alvidrez expressed. Listen to your citizens. Listen to the people that give you the money that youre sitting there allocating. Listen to those people instead of having whoever it is that youre advocating for, theyre not advocating on behalf of the taxpayer as a whole. Theyre not, because if they were you would be worried about our tax increase that we just had. You would be worried about why we have holes everywhere. Why was there a massive hole over there on Grape Street? Were having to sit here and fight to use our own money, and thats an issue. And if I have to fight you to use my own money, and then you go around and you steal it via certificate of obligation because you want a hotel so someone can go and buy our water and our sewer bonds, I have an issue with that. I call that a thief. I call that a thief and I call someone who cant uphold their public oath of office a liar.

Abilene City Council weighs large tax abatement for Lancium

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Regarding the tax incentives for Lancium, Alvidrez believes the city council is lacking transparency but acknowledges the potential benefits.

Its good if were going to be able to get people in here, and its going to be able to add to our tax base. But the issue is, what are you going to do with that money? Because weve had businesses that come in here before, and not necessarily with this big of a tax abatement, because I believe its 15% is what were getting, and then theyre getting, like, an 85% tax abatement. But are we even going to do right with that money? Could we have gotten a little bit more money? Theyre not being 100% transparent when youre talking about whats happening with Lancium or Stargate, the same way they werent with the hotel. It wont be until its already too late that we find out whats going on with that, Alvidrez asked.

With major projects on the horizon, including Stargate, ACUs nuclear energy experimental testing lab, and the arrival of the B-21 bomber at Dyess Air Force Base, Abilene is positioned for significant growth. If elected, she says she would prioritize infrastructure, worried that the citys current systems arent equipped to handle expansion.

Infrastructure, infrastructure, infrastructure. Because if you dont have a foundation, its going to crumble. Its going to crumble, and I dont necessarily know if our infrastructure is going to be able to support the growth that we might be experiencing. We cant even support the growth that weve had for 20, 30 years, much less the growth thats going to be coming in via these particular endeavors, Alvidrez explained. So my concern, one as a taxpayer, and my concern hopefully as a future sitting city council member, is solidifying the infrastructure, putting the money back towards the infrastructure, to be able to allow taxpayers the ability to work, to commute back and forth, to basically live and have a better quality of life.

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Beyond infrastructure, Alvidrez believes city council members should have term limits, similar to federal government positions.

You have them at the national level. If we have the same president that we had for the last four years, for 20 years, I mean, just imagine where we would be. I mean, youve got to have term limits. Look at Kyle McAlister. How long has he been on council? Like his fifth term? And our infrastructure is still falling apart, Alvidrez said. Weve taken out a bond every year since 2015 or 2014, were sitting at number 10. As far as our debt is concerned, in the entire state, our debt is higher than Austin, and Austin has way more than what we have here, as far as quality of life. There needs to be term limits, and theres a lot of other things that I feel would benefit the community as a whole. But how do you get that going?

Miguel Espinoza looks to bring fresh perspective to Abilene City Council

For Alvidrez, advocacy is at the core of her campaign.

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If youre tired of struggling, if youre tired of looking at the potholes, if youre tired of getting stolen from, I advocate. Thats what I do. I advocate. I have a bachelors in sociology, a masters in rehabilitation counseling, and ultimately, I want to have a better quality of life. Im sitting right there in the trenches with everyone else, and putting me in there is just going to allow me that much more ability to be able to advocate. Im able to allocate your tax dollars in a way that benefits you as the public, Alvidrez shared. The issue is getting things on the agenda, maybe if you benefit from them, or if they can benefit from you, it might get on there. But if youre just the average Joe trying to make it, more than likely its not going to get on the agenda. And I know I will never get anything that I want on the agenda because of what I do in the community and holding people accountable.

Alvidrez is running against incumbent Kyle McAlister and candidate Miguel Espinoza for Abilene City Council Place 5.

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SINGAPORE, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Singapore's health authorities received reports from the police regarding approximately 4,000 to 5,000 cases of possession or usage of e-vaporizers in 2023 and 2024, the Ministry of Health revealed on Monday.

Among these cases, only one involved a parent reporting their child for vaping, the ministry said in a reply to a parliamentary question about vaping cases.

In response, the individual was issued a warning rather than a composition fine and referred to the Health Promotion Board for counseling.

The ministry further encouraged concerned parents to contact the board's smoking and vaping cessation services, noting that no enforcement action would be taken against the children involved.

Singapore has imposed a strict ban on the importation, sale, distribution, possession, use, and purchase of emerging and imitation tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, vaporizers, and heat-not-burn tobacco products, to protect public health. 
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Monday on the Daily 8, were looking at large road closures in Grand Rapids and Wyoming, how the egg shortage is affecting paczki production for Fat Tuesday, introducing you to an unlikely hero and more.

You can watch the full Daily 8 for March 3, 2025, in the video player above or check out any of the stories mentioned below:

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Each weekday, the Daily 8 brings you the top eight stories we are keeping an eye on in and around West Michigan.

Join us again on Tuesday for the Daily 8.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
DAKOTA CITY, Nebraska (KCAU)  The community of Dakota City, Nebraska banded together to help raise money for two people injured in a car accident last year.

The fundraiser, held at the Dakota City Fire Department, was taking donations for Maddie and Walyon Wedmore, mother and son. With the money raised being used to help pay for medical bills and financially support the two.

On December 27th of last year the two were involved in a car accident that took the lives of two drivers, one being husband and father Christopher Wedmore.

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According to Matt Rowe, Maddies father, the car accident has left his daughter working through her injuries and temporarily unable to work.

Union County Sheriffs Office seeking help on investigation

Unfortunately, she is now a single mother with no other, I mean, she cant she has been working two months. She will be able to go back to work eventually, we dont know when it could be months, it could be weeks we just dont know. Basically, its just a way to get her a little more financial independence. I mean, if we if we walk away with $15,000/20,000 today, that would be phenomenal. I mean, thats not going to come anywhere close to touching her medical debt, but at least theres something in her pockets, said Rowe.

To raise the funds folks could either donate money before heading to a buffet or enter into a raffle for a chance of winning several prizes like a TV.

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More than a hundred people showed up to todays fundraiser and Rowe said he cant thank the community enough for their support.

Ive had people come out of the woodwork that I havent talked to in years that are like, hey, we heard about what happened. We have this couple from Missouri that donated the South Africa trip, dont even know who we are they saw it on Facebook, of all things and like here, we want to help you guys. Its just been really amazing, said Rowe.

Rowe also wants to thank the Dakota City and South Sioux City Fire Department for insure his daughter and grandson survived the crash.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
Graphic parade floats mocking Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin were on display in Cologne and Dusseldorf this week, as Germany celebrates carnival season.

Germany is famous for its daring satirical parade floats, which do not shy away from graphic violence or nudity to get their point across.

This year, one float depicted a bloodied Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, being crushed in the hands of the Russian and US leaders.

A float depicting presidents Trump and Putin squashing Ukraine following the USs tough talks with Volodymyr Zelensky - INA FASSBENDER/AFP

A caption running along the sculptures of Putin and Mr Trump read Hitler-Stalin Pact 2.0, referring to the non-aggression treaty signed by Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union in 1939.

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Another float depicts Alice Weidel, the far-Right leader of Alternative for Germany (AfD), as the villainous witch from the fairytale of Hansel and Gretel.

She is shown leaning out of a gingerbread house and offering a swastika-shaped biscuit to a young child, who is supposed to represent first-time voters in German elections held last month.

Those elections saw the AfD, which has faced a string of Nazi-related scandals, secure an unprecedented second place with 20 per cent of the vote.

The same float features gingerbread house biscuits named after the social media sites TikTok and Instagram, which the AfD has relied on heavily to reach young voters.

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One bawdy parade float shows Mr Trump, Putin and Chinese leader Xi Jinping standing naked and showing off enlarged genitals tattooed with the slogan Make China great again.

Another simply depicts Putin as a prisoner in a black-and-white uniform and holding out bloodied hands, alluding to war crimes committed during his full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

This float shows Putin as a prisoner with his blood on his hands as a mark of the war crimes committed during the full-scale invasion of Ukraine - CHRISTOPHER NEUNDORF/EPA-EFE/SHUTTERSTOCK

There was a heavy police presence at the carnival, with officers clad in black observing the floats from the sidelines.

Germany is on high alert during the spring carnival season amid concerns that the parades could be targeted by Islamic extremists.

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One carnival reveller told Reuters news agency: I feel quite safe. There is of course the possibility that attacks could occur, but you have to live with the risks.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Kill Bill actor Daryl Hannah used the Oscars stage on Sunday to throw up a peace sign as she shared a message of support for Ukraine.

Slava Ukraine, said Hannah, who shared a version of a notable rally cry (Slava Ukraini) that translates to Glory to Ukraine, while she presented the Best Film Editing category.

The Oscars crowd promptly applauded Hannahs use of the phrase, which grew in popularity since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

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Her remarks arrived just days after President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vances Oval Office clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a meeting that saw Trump berate Zelenskyy for being disrespectful and not showing thanks to the U.S. for its support of his country.

Elsewhere during the ceremony, Oscars host Conan OBrien went after Trump for cozying up to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Hannah, who is known for her activism, previously showed support for Ukraine in a social media post following Russias invasion of the country.

#Ukraine  We see you We stand with you & All the victims of brutal dictators & senseless wars , she wrote in 2022 alongside a clip of sunflowers.

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The actor was once arrested along with Trump Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in a 2013 protest at the White House gates to push then-President Barack Obama to reject the Keystone XL Pipeline.

"Slava Ukraine."



Daryl Hannah acknowledged the war in Ukraine before presenting the Oscar for Best Editing to Sean Baker.#Oscarshttps://t.co/nl9CxOviL4pic.twitter.com/0pBvkPxR61  ABC News (@ABC) March 3, 2025

Related...
Daryl Hannah gave a shoutout to Ukraine Sunday night at the Oscars, the first overtly political moment of the evening.

Before the Kill Bill actress presented the Best Editing award to Anora writer/director Sean Baker, she simply said the phrase, Slava Ukraine.

It is the battle cry of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which have been at war for three years since the Russian invasion in 2022.

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The phrase has been used frequently on social media to show empathy with the Eastern European country since the tense meeting in the Oval Office between Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. president Donald Trump.

During the meeting, Vice President JD Vance chastised Zelenskyy for not thanking America for its financial and military aid over the last three years, calling the wartime leader disrespectful.

Prior to the contentious meet-up of the heads of state, Trump called Zelenskyy a dictator, a term he later told reporters he did not remember using.

Trump and his newly installed Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, have recently refused to admit that Russia started the war by invading Ukraine.

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During an interview on Fox News Sunday last week, Hegseth dodged the question of who began the ongoing hostilities: Its fair to say its a very complicated situation.

Hegseth told host Shannon Bream, Standing here and saying, Youre good, youre bad; youre a dictator, youre not a dictator; you invaded, you didnt. Its not useful. Its not productive.

A few other acceptance speeches early in the evening could be construed as making a statement on the current tense political situation as well. Gints Zilbalodis, who won Best Animated Feature Film for Flow, said, We have to get along, were all in the same boat, echoing the films premise of a group of animals somehow working together to survive a catastrophic flood.

In her speech, Best Supporting Actress winner Zoe Saldana thanked her parents, who are immigrants, and said she was grateful she was able to speak Spanish in Emilia Perez.





The post Daryl Hannah Shouts Out Ukraine While Presenting at the Oscars appeared first on TheWrap.
Frank O'Bannon Grant recipients at public and private schools across Indiana are expected to see their awards decreased, but exact cuts are still to be determined. (Getty Images)

A proposal to shrink thousands of state financial aid grants is likely to cut deepest at schools like Ivy Tech Community College, as well as Indiana, Purdue and Ball State universities.

Last fall, Indianas Commission for Higher Education (CHE) approved reduced awards for the Frank OBannon Grant after changes to the Free Application for Student Financial Aid (FAFSA) caused more students to qualify. The cuts ranged from between 14% and 86%, depending on where a student goes to college and their specific financial needs.

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Although lawmakers could add to the funding pot during the legislative session, the latest draft of the state budget  so far approved by the House  suggests identical appropriations from the last biennial spending plan.

If the proposed reductions are confirmed for the 202526 academic year, thousands of grants at public and private Hoosier schools are likely to be decreased  and some students could lose eligibility altogether.

New data provided to the Indiana Capital Chronicle by CHE shows grant dollars doled out to higher education institutions in Fiscal Year 2024  the latest available  totaled $171 million for roughly 32,000 students. Average grant amounts were about $4,700 for students at public universities, and just shy of $8,200 at private schools, although specific student awards varied. Unique data on individual award amounts was not available.

The lions share, close to $19.2 million, was claimed by Ivy Tech, where the average award among the schools nearly 6,800 recipients was about $2,800.

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But grants at other schools averaged much higher, setting the stage for more significant cuts.

At Indiana University Indianapolis, more than $12.6 million in Frank OBannon dollars were approved for 2,500 students for an average award amount of $5,048. IU Bloomington made a similar request for $12.8 million; grants for 2,352 students at the flagship campus averaged $5,464.

Roughly 1,900 grants at Purdue University West Lafayette totaled $9.96 million, with average awards coming out $5,212.

Ball State University, which received $10.5 million, funded 2,069 student grants with average student payouts of $5,082.

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According to the approved draft, the maximum award for a student with the highest need attending a public institution would drop from $6,200 a year to $5,300. Similarly, the maximum award for a high-need student attending a private institution would drop from $12,400 to $10,600.

Those attending Ivy Tech or a proprietary institution would drop from $4,700 to $4,050.

Grant awards expected to drop

The Frank OBannon grants are designed to provide access for Hoosier students to attend eligible public, private and proprietary postsecondary institutions. Eligibility for the grant is based on financial need as determined by the FAFSA. The grant may be used toward tuition and regularly assessed fees.

To be eligible, students must be full-time and earn at least 24 credit hours; their award goes up if they earn 30 or more credit hours.

In 2024, the number of Indiana students who qualified for state financial aid jumped after significant changes were made to the federal formula that determines aid eligibility. But because data was unavailable during a botched rollout of the new FAFSA forms, commission members kept the awards at the same amount.

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That led to an unexpected increase to Indianas projected spend for Fiscal Year 2025 from around $210 million to an estimated $225 million, forcing CHE to dip into its reserves to cover the inflated costs.

Although overall FAFSAs submitted for the 2024-25 award year were down, CHE staff noted that students with the highest need were up by more than 8% overall, and up 14% among high school seniors.

Commission staff said they will still issue the same number of awards for Fiscal Year 2026  around 33,000  but cap the total cost back at roughly $175 million.

Where dollars go

Officials at multiple Hoosier higher education institutions said they worry that less available aid will lead to fewer students attending in-state schools, further complicating an ongoing effort to boost Indianas stagnant college-going rate.

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Reducing the grants means that colleges will likely have to make up the difference in aid themselves, or risk students leaving schools or not enrolling at all due to the costs.

But CHE leadership have emphasized that  even with reductions  the grant amounts will remain higher than they were in the 2022-23 schedule, and overall the program is spending $44 million more than two years ago. That was when commissioners boosted the maximum grant award by 35%, which returned the award to its pre-recession levels.

(Graphic from Indiana Commission for Higher Education presentation)

Mary Jane Michalak, senior vice president for legal and public affairs at Ivy Tech, said a preliminary analysis suggests that students at the community college will lose $6 million, with 7,200 students impacted and 400 a total loss of eligibility.

Other Indiana colleges and universities said theyre still calculating potential impacts, but expect comparable decreases.

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Impacts to individual grant amounts will depend on an institutions graduation rates, the number of students who file FAFSA renewal, and the number of students who meet the new renewal criteria, according to CHE.

The General Assembly appropriated $167.7 million to the Frank OBannon Grant in Fiscal Years 2024 and 2025. House Republican budget writers included the same appropriations in their version of the next state budget.

State budget regulators approved the recommended cuts in December. Further approval would be needed from the panel if more dollars are appropriated for Frank OBannon awards in the final version of the next budget. Thats unlikely to happen, however. Although the Independent Colleges of Indiana  which advocates for the states 29 private colleges and universities  is lobbying for grant expansions, CHE officials have not asked lawmakers for any increases.

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A longtime Twin Cities pizza chain has apologized following an incident with a group of Republican members at one of its locations this weekend.

It happened Saturday at the Davanni's located just off Highway 100 in Edina, where a group of Minnesota Republicans were approached by staff members because of their political clothing.

The group, members of The Senate District 50 (SD-50) Republican Party, were seeking out pizza and drinks at the restaurant after attending their party's annual convention nearby in Minneapolis.

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The SD-50 GOP tweeted, "we were told they did not allow 'political organizing'" at the restaurant. However, the party says the group were just there for food and drinks after the convention.

We are in the process of organizing a meeting with Davannis and the staff member involved to resolve the situation. We are hoping it can be a learning experience for all. https://t.co/KcVHo1rx0r  SD50MNGOP (@SD50MNGOP) March 2, 2025

One of those in attendance, Minnesota Republican National Committeeman AK Kamara, told FOX 9 that he was wearing an American flag hat and other members were wearing "Make America Great Again" hats.

An employee approached them after they had eaten and told them that political meetings were against restaurant policy, with Kamara telling FOX it "made me feel we were being discriminated against on the basis of who we support politically."

On Sunday morning, the party announced in a tweet that it was "in the process of organizing a meeting with Davannis (sic) and the staff member involved to resolve the situation."

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"We are hoping it can be a learning experience for all," the tweet said.

Later Sunday, Davanni's posted an apology on social media:

"Over the weekend, our team in Edina misunderstood a policy around fundraising efforts in our party rooms which resulted in an incident that impacted valued guests," the company said. "We're deeply sorry for the actions taken."

"We have taken quick action to understand, resolve and work on expanded training for our team members. We take pride in supporting our communities and will continue to live by our values each day."

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Davanni's is also asking anyone directly impacted by the incident to reach out at davannis.com/contact.

The local pizza chain dates back to the 1970s, when it first opened as Pontillo's. Growing popularity and the need for a "name that could be trademarked" led to a rebrand as Davanni's in the 1980s, according to the company's website.

The chain has since grown to nearly two dozen locations around the metro.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  This week, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is set to host its Womens Conference for the second year, and drivers in the area may see traffic impacts.

To commemorate Womens History Month, the conference will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Northwest from Tuesday, March 4, through Thursday, March 6.

The free event is open to anyone interested in networking, exchanging ideas, sharing experiences and fostering development. Participants will also enjoy interactive workshops, panel discussions and motivational speakers.

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Road closures announced for joint session of Congress

As a result of the conference, D.C. police said drivers in the area may see impacts to traffic. Police noted that the following street will be posted as Emergency No Parking on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 6:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.

West side of 7th Street between Allen Y. Lew Place and M Street, NW

Anyone who parks along the street during these times will be ticketed and towed.

For more updated traffic information, click here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
A staff member (R) explains coffee products to visitors at a coffee mill in Pu'er, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Jan. 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

KUNMING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- As the coffee harvesting season has arrived, a city known as China's coffee capital in Yunnan Province is alive with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. With coffee-themed manors, streets and cultural fairs developed, the city has become a hotspot for coffee enthusiasts and tourists alike.

China's "No. 1 central document" for 2025, unveiled in late February, said the country will advance the deep integration of rural culture and tourism and initiate pilot projects to empower rural revitalization through cultural industries.

Located along the Tropic of Cancer, a prime coffee-growing belt, Pu'er is a leading coffee producer in China. The city produced 58,000 tonnes of raw coffee beans in the 2023-2024 harvesting season, ranking first in China.

In the lush, green hills of the coffee capital, an attraction called Elephant Coffee Manor stands out not just for its premium coffee but also for its unique setting. Visitors can sip their coffee while watching wild Asian elephants roam freely in their natural habitat.

"It's breathtaking to sit here with a cup of coffee and see elephants foraging on the hillside. It's unforgettable," said Huang Daxiang, a coffee aficionado and an investor in the manor.

Ma Li, a tourist from Shanghai, tried her hand at coffee fruit picking and learned about the entire process, from coffee growing and roasting to brewing.

"It was a very rewarding experience," she said, adding that the manor also offers engaging activities like coffee soap making and coffee bean bead crafting, allowing visitors like her to dive deeper into the world of coffee culture.

Figures show that Pu'er has built more than 20 premium coffee manors, which have integrated the coffee culture and tourism, including five listed as provincial-level coffee manors.

Lou Yuqiang, an associate researcher at the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, said promoting the construction of high-quality coffee manors in Yunnan is a positive step toward industry development and will help extend the coffee industry chain.

In addition to coffee manors, Pu'er has been hosting coffee-themed fairs and other events, displaying local and national coffee brands and featuring cultural performances.

Tourist Zhang Xuanyu attended a coffee-themed fair as a side event for an international coffee brewing competition held in the city's Dai-Lahu-Va Autonomous County of Menglian in February.

"I tried various coffee flavors at the fair and met coffee lovers from all over the world. It was a great learning experience," said Zhang, from Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province.

During the 2025 Spring Festival holiday from Jan. 28 to Feb. 4, the number of tourists received by Pu'er surged by 13.71 percent year on year to 3.25 million, with the tourism revenue up 13.21 percent from the previous year to 3.44 billion yuan (about 480 million U.S. dollars).

"The integration of coffee and tourism has become a new hallmark of the tourism industry of Pu'er," said Zhang Qiying, deputy director of the city's culture and tourism bureau. 

A child (R) tries her hands airing coffee fruits at a coffee manor in Pu'er, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Jan. 8, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

Tourists enjoy leisure time at a coffee manor in Pu'er, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Jan. 7, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

An aerial drone photo taken on Jan. 7, 2025 shows staff members airing coffee fruits at a coffee manor in Pu'er, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua/Chen Xinbo)

This combo photo shows Asian elephants roaming near the Elephant Coffee Manor (upper) and an aerial view of the coffee manor (bottom) in Pu'er, southwest China's Yunnan Province. (Xinhua)
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  D.C. police are asking the public to help identify a suspect reportedly involved in a theft in Northwest last month.

Mass held to pray for Pope Francis in Northeast DC on Sunday

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is looking for a person involved in a theft on Feb. 24 in the 400 block of H Street.

(Photo courtesy of the Metropolitan Police Department)

Anyone with information is asked to call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
A display of medical cannabis products at Trulieve's Marietta store. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

Ten years after Georgia legalized cannabis possession for medical use, lawmakers in both chambers of the state Legislature seem poised to expand access a bit more.

Georgia lawmakers had long resisted decriminalizing possession of the drug because of its stigmatizing medical marijuana nickname, even as a parade of parents annually brought their children to the state Capitol as evidence of the need for the medicine that offered a promise of relief to little ones suffering from epileptic seizures and other maladies.

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Attempts to widen the path to accessing medical cannabis have stalled in recent years, but as the pivotal Crossover Day deadline looms March 6, at least one bill has made it halfway through the Legislature.

Tetrahydrocannabinol, generally abbreviated to THC, is the psychoactive compound in marijuana that is currently classified as a Schedule I drug at the federal level and banned in Georgia. However, THCs non-psychoactive counterpart cannabidiol, also known as CBD, has been shown to be effective in treating health conditions including epilepsy, Crohns disease and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Whether from a dispensary or a pharmacy, patients must be approved by a doctor to access CBD products. House Bill 227, introduced by Musella Republican Rep. Robert Dickey, seeks to revamp Georgias medical cannabis laws by allowing patients to more easily access and navigate the program, with Dickey dubbing the bill the Putting Georgias Patients First Act.

The bill focuses on three main changes, including replacing the term low-THC oil with medical cannabis, in Georgia code and improving access to information about the program after a 2024 report from the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission found that many doctors and patients were unaware that Georgias medical cannabis program existed. The bill also removes requirements that certain medical diagnoses like cancer or Parkinsons disease be severe or end stage, and adds Lupus to the list of qualifying health conditions.

Rep. Robert Dickey. Ross Williams/Georgia Recorder

Many of you were here when Allen Peake, my neighbor in Macon, did a lot of work on medical cannabis, Dickey said as he presented HB 227 on the House floor, citing efforts by a former GOP state lawmaker who campaigned at the Capitol for years to legalize the medicine. Since that bill, this is the first bill, in my opinion, thats considered to put Georgias patients first. We have focused our attention on other parts of this medical cannabis program, but have not really focused on the patients.

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Dickeys bill passed in a 164-1 House vote Thursday. A second bill, Senate Bill 220, would go even further by allowing all parts and derivatives of the cannabis plant from being used for medicinal purposes, as well as removing a ban on vaping cannabis oil and other products. It passed through the Senate Health and Human Services Committee last week and is now awaiting a vote in the Senate.

Nationwide, nearly every state has enabled residents to use some form of medical or recreational marijuana, according to the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But of the 23 states that have legalized only medical cannabis, Georgia is on the more restrictive end as one of nine states making only CBD and low-THC products legal.

To some, Georgias current medical cannabis landscape is a far cry from the one that existed a decade ago, when Peake first won enough support from fellow state lawmakers to legalize medical cannabis. Known as the Haleighs Hope Act, the bill created the Georgia Commission on Medical Cannabis, legalized possession of low-THC oil for the first time in Georgia, and created a new research program dedicated to studying the drugs impact. However, the bill did not allow patients or their caregivers to purchase the medicine in Georgia, resulting in patients and their families having to travel out of state in order to access the medicine.

Four years later, lawmakers passed House Bill 324, which created a process for six companies to produce and sell the oil in-state, but it took years of continued legislative action and lawsuits to successfully roll out the program.

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Peake, who introduced Georgias inaugural medical cannabis legislation, said he still feels the impact of introducing Haleighs Hope Act in his everyday life.

About a week ago at church, I had an older lady come up to me and say, You have no idea the impact that your legislation has had on the quality of my life, Peake said. So many times Ive heard that story from others who have benefited from either being able to come off of pharmaceutical drugs or had a reduction in seizures or help with their pain from one of the medical diagnoses they have, and thats whats been the overwhelming benefit.

And though he says he still does not support legalizing marijuana for recreational use, he agrees that the program should be expanded to include a wider array of patients.

Why shouldnt we allow someone to be able to benefit not just because theyre dying, but because it would improve their quality of life? he said. Thats why Im so grateful to Representative Dickey for leading the charge to make these improvements in legislation.

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However, while the bill has broad support from advocates and lawmakers alike, some proponents of expanding medical cannabis in Georgia argue that the bill does not go far enough to help patients access medical cannabis in the forms that they need. Current medical cannabis laws include products like oils, tinctures, transdermal patches, lotions, and capsules, but not edible products, vaporization, or smokable flower, which some advocates see as a missed business opportunity for cannabis companies in Georgia.

Our patients, they complain, like, look, theres no need for us to be a part of this medical cannabis program if they dont have flower, said Yolanda Bennett, the co-founder and director of operations, social justice, and advocacy for the Georgia Medical Cannabis Society. A lot of people still choose to go to the legacy market, the black market, or to even just order their hemp products online.

Right now, there are over 27,500 patients registered for Georgias low-THC oil program, with intractable pain and post-traumatic stress patients making up more than 75% of those on the list, according to recent data from the state Department of Public Health. However, those numbers are dwarfed by neighboring states like Mississippi and Louisiana, where enrollment numbers are closer to 50,000.

Bennett said she hopes Georgia will follow the example of states like Colorado and Virginia, which are far friendlier to consumers of medical cannabis. However, it may take a broader shift of current mindsets around the long banned substance before such changes can be implemented.

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We need to expand Georgias medical cannabis program, Bennett said. Its not that were trying to [increase] adult use, but people have to realize that cannabis is medicine.

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JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Above, Kapolei resident Gregory Peterson walked Friday near one of several abandoned vehicles near his residence.

1 /3 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Above, Kapolei resident Gregory Peterson walked Friday near one of several abandoned vehicles near his residence.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM At top, Crystal Germano, community engagement director for the Villages of Kapolei Association, looked Friday at a broken speed-limit sign on Kamaaha Avenue in Kapolei. The community has not received city traffic and parking enforcement due to an oversight in permitting years ago.

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2 /3 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM At top, Crystal Germano, community engagement director for the Villages of Kapolei Association, looked Friday at a broken speed-limit sign on Kamaaha Avenue in Kapolei. The community has not received city traffic and parking enforcement due to an oversight in permitting years ago.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Parking tickets were on the windshield of one of several abandoned vehicles Friday on Kekuilani Loop in Kapolei.

3 /3 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Parking tickets were on the windshield of one of several abandoned vehicles Friday on Kekuilani Loop in Kapolei.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Above, Kapolei resident Gregory Peterson walked Friday near one of several abandoned vehicles near his residence.

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JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM At top, Crystal Germano, community engagement director for the Villages of Kapolei Association, looked Friday at a broken speed-limit sign on Kamaaha Avenue in Kapolei. The community has not received city traffic and parking enforcement due to an oversight in permitting years ago.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Parking tickets were on the windshield of one of several abandoned vehicles Friday on Kekuilani Loop in Kapolei.

A subtle sign of a conflict between city and state leaders that has frustrated and disenfranchised thousands of Oahu residents for decades is on display along a main street leading into the Villages of Kapolei.

There, along Kama aha Avenue, a speed limit sign painted with green graffiti dangles upside down.

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Its been like that for a few months,  said Crystal Germano, community engagement manager for homeowners in the nearly 40-year-old master-planned community with 4, 025 homes.

Along other Villages of Kapolei roads, 65 or so abandoned vehicles fester, tall weeds flourish, people live in vehicles and residents say they have difficulty getting Honolulu Police Department officers to deal with parking and other road use issues outside of emergencies.

On one street, Kekuilani Loop, a Subaru with significant collision damage has sat for about six months, according to residents, and now is one of five abandoned vehicles on the same street.

Cheryl Castro, a Villages of Kapolei resident since 1994, said its frustrating not to have city abandoned-vehicle removal services like other communities.

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Its like the broken-window effect,  she said. You leave one and dont address it, then everybody starts to see, Oh, OK, this is the site,  and thats whats happening. It attracts more.

All these conditions stem from a state action in the late 1980s that resulted in the city refusing to take ownership and responsibility for Villages of Kapolei roads from a state affordable-housing development agency, which was the communitys master developer, initially because road construction bypassed city regulations and subsequently didnt meet city standards.

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Typically, developers turn roads over to the city for ownership and upkeep after subdivisions are completed. But that never happened at Villages of Kapolei despite dec ades of effort.

Ive heard 10, 000 million excuses,  said Gregory Peterson, a past Villages of Kapolei Association board president who has lived in the community since 1996. This gives a really bad impression of government. They keep kicking the can down the road.

Now, Hawaiis Legislature, which produced the root of the problem nearly 40 years ago, has waded into the mire in an effort to prod, or perhaps force, a resolution.

This needs to be addressed,  said Rep. Diamond Garcia (R, Ewa-Kapolei ). These residents of Kapolei have paid their taxes for decades. Its time that they have equal access to the city services they rightfully deserve, whether its police enforcement, road maintenance or infrastructure improvements.

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Still, a resolution could be challenging, given that one cost estimate to bring more than 100 roads covering 24 miles throughout the 888-acre community up to city standards is close to $100 million.

Myriad complaints Garcia said he began hearing about the issue in 2022 while campaigning door to door in the community as part of his bid to become a first-time state lawmaker.

In January, Garcia introduced House Bill 157, which aims to address the issue two ways. Part of the bill would require the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp., the state agency that owns the roads, to transfer them to the city by Jan. 1. The bill also would authorize county police officers to enforce the statewide traffic code on all Hawaii roads regardless of ownership and maintenance responsibilities.

Sandra Jamora, a longtime Villages of Kapolei resident and former community association general manager, told members of House committees on Housing and Transportation during a Jan. 30 public hearing that residents consistently have problems getting HPD to respond to nonemergency issues with traffic and parking.

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We have vehicles parked across crosswalks and around corners inhibiting the safety of pedestrians and blocking view planes,  she said in written testimony. We have derelict and abandoned vehicles sitting rusted and falling apart, taking usable space from our residents.  I support HB 157 and implore you to give us the services we pay for and deserve, like every other tax paying citizen. We have suffered for too long on issues that affect our safety and well-being.

Germano, the associations community engagement manager, said in written testimony that the association gets multiple calls and emails daily about street issues that also include landscaping along roads that can get waste-high, street sweeping and other maintenance issues.

Darren Holbrook, a 14-year Villages of Kapolei resident, expressed frustration about substandard road conditions and a lack of police presence in the community despite paying property taxes like homeowners in other communities.

We cant even get our roads paved within the Villages, but we continue to pay property taxes to the City & County,  he said in written testimony. Parking in front of fire hydrants, parking in cul-de-sacs, expired safety and vehicle registration, parking on sidewalks, parking in unmarked cross walks, all continues to make our community unsafe.

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City Council member Andria Tupola, whose district includes Villages of Kapolei, also expressed support for the bill.

Rep. Luke Evslin, chair of the House Committee on Housing, noted during the Jan. 30 hearing that he had asked the state Department of the Attorney General for an opinion on whether the Legislature could force the city to accept the roads. The opinion received later was in the affirmative, according to Evslin (D, Wailua-Lihue ).

HB 157 was passed unanimously by the two House committees, but the bill stalled after two other House committees did not schedule a hearing for the bill by a recent deadline. However, a companion bill in the Senate remains pending.

Senate Bill 662, introduced by four senators led by Mike Gabbard (D, Kapolei-Makakilo-Kalaeloa ), was advanced in February after two separate committee hearings. It awaits a full Senate vote and could be sent to the House for consideration after that.

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Rutted past All the trouble with Villages of Kapolei roads stems from an action the Legislature took in 1988 to exempt affordable-housing projects produced by the Hawaii Finance and Development Corp., a state agency, from county building approvals and regulations.

The measure was strongly opposed by counties, especially on Oahu where Honolulus mayor at the time, Frank Fasi, sparred with lawmakers over the bill promoted as a way to expedite affordable-housing development. Then-Honolulu City Council Chair Arnold Morgado warned that enacting a law for exemptions would haunt the counties far into the 21st century.

The controversial 1988 law, Act 15, fast-tracked development of the Villages of Kapolei, where 60 % of homes had to be affordable to a mix of moderate-and low-income households.

Act 15 also had an automatic repeal provision that took effect in 1993, yet it left the state saddled with Villages of Kapolei roads.

To expedite construction of the roadways, (HFDC ) did not get city permits,  Dean Minakami, director of the Hawaii Housing Finance and Development Corp., HFDCs successor agency, said during the Jan. 30 hearing on HB 157. They self-permitted.

In an interview, Minakami said the roads were built to city standards in effect at the time. He also said the city got the benefit of new property taxes but that prior city administrations refused to accept the roads because the state bypassed city regulations.

It was kind of like a turf war,  he said.

Peterson, the former Villages of Kapolei Association board president, said he felt like community residents were treated like hostages for decades as city leaders directed blame at state leaders, and vice versa.

In September 2022 the city agreed to accept ownership and maintenance of the roads if HHFDC improved them to current city standards, and so HHFDC has been slowly working toward that.

Costly resolution HHFDC upgraded a few main arterial roads at Villages of Kapolei about a year ago at a cost of about $12 million. But Minakami said the cost to bring all other roads in the community up to city standards is probably $90 million to $100 million. He estimated that this could take 10 years to complete.

Such work includes repaving, rebuilding sidewalks, replacing light poles and reconstructing storm drain catchmentsbasically, redo all the infrastructure,  he said at the hearing. Were just doing it slowly as we can.

Minakami said HHFDC has spent $1 million annually over the past decade on ordinary road maintenance in Villages of Kapolei and that past and future improvement costs have reduced funding that the agency can spend on its main mission to help finance affordable-housing production.

City Managing Director Mike Formby said in written testimony that he discussed an alternate resolution with Minakami in 2024 and reached a verbal agreement for HHFDC to pay the city $60 million to accept all Villages of Kapolei roads as they are, which Formby said represented a $20 million discount from the citys $80 million assessed value of remedial work.

Formby also said the city later received a revised settlement  payment offer of $40 million from HHFDC for the city to accept the roads.

The City is prepared to consummate the transfer of roads to the City at the agreed upon discounted value of $60 (million ) and is also willing to discuss payment options with HHFDC,  Formby said in his written testimony.

In an interview, Formby said he believes an amicable resolution will be reached, in part because the Legislature cannot force the city to take over noncompliant state roadways without compensation.

Thats an unfunded mandate,  he said. From our position, the mayor and I, we have a financial obligation, a duty, to the taxpayers of the City and County of Honolulu for operations that are funded by real property tax, and I dont want to be raising real property tax because we didnt get adequate compensation from the state to take over roads that are noncompliant.

Minakami told the Senate Committee on Housing during a Feb. 11 hearing that the verbal negotiations involving a $60 million payment were never agreed to in writing, but he also gave an impression that the citys offer wasnt terrible.

You know, $60 million is a lot, but it is less than our estimate that we would incur to rehab those roads,  he said. It still would be a preferable alternative than for us to do it (road improvements ) ourselves.

Further negotiations with the city, however, broke off after HHFDC learned about two other bills that would be introduced in January and could affect a road transfer deal.

These two bills, SB 1535 and HB 800, propose city and state land swaps partly linked with a city takeover of Village of Kapolei roads. SB 1535 stalled in January, though HB 800 is pending a full House vote and possible consideration by the Senate.

Garcia, meanwhile, is hopeful that legislation or negotiation will result in a solution by summer.

Its time to sit down together and work out a compromise for the people,  he said.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius hosted a virtual conference of defence ministers from five European NATO countries, where officials reaffirmed their unwavering political and military support for Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda with reference to MDR

Details: Pistorius hosted the so-called Group of Five, which includes Germany, France, the UK, Italy and Poland. The ministers and their representatives agreed to further develop security policy.

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"Everyone agrees that Ukraine can count on the continued and broad support of the G5," the German Ministry of Defence said after the meeting.

The video conference took place after an argument between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a meeting in Washington.

The next meeting of the Group of Five in the format of defence ministers is scheduled for 12 March in Paris.

The five-party meetings take place after Trump's election victory. Their goal is to strengthen European security and defence readiness.

Background:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the White House early on Friday, 28 February, after an argument with Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Later, Trump said that Zelenskyy had been disrespectful to the US and was not ready for peace.

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A Delta flight that had just taken off from Boston Logan International Airport had to quickly return after a smoky odor was detected in the cabin shortly after takeoff, the airline said.

The plane landed safely on Sunday morning and none of the 92 people on board were injured, Delta said.

Delta Flight 1398 was en route to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport in an Airbus A220, according to the airline.

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The flight had to turn around after the crew reported fumes in both the flight deck and the cabin, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The plane returned to Boston at about 9:35 a.m. Sunday.

The airline said an emergency was declared in order to get priority from air traffic control.

Delta said it is working to get passengers on their journey as quickly and safely as possible.

The FAA is investigating the matter.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Democrat Sens. Chris Murphy and Chris Van Hollen said they regretted voting to approve Marco Rubio for secretary of state in separate interviews on Sunday.

In an interview with Dana Bash on CNNs State of the Union, Murphy claimed that Rubio had failed to stand up to President Donald Trump as he had hoped.

You voted to approve his nomination to be secretary of state, Bash said. You still think you made the right choice?

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It was a mistake, Murphy said twice. I think a lot of us thought that Marco Rubio was going to stand up to Donald Trump on an issue like this.

Murphy added that Rubio had proven a great disappointment to many senators.

Rubio was unanimously confirmed as secretary of state in the Senate in January after Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, the Democratic whip, endorsed his nomination.

In a separate interview with Fox News Sunday, Van Hollen also conceded that he wished he had not voted Rubio through.

I regret that vote, Van Hollen said. As a member of the Senate, Secretary Rubio was somebody who stood up for American values, American principles.

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He also noted that Rubio had previously recognized Russia as the aggressor against Ukraine.

In his interview with CNN on Sunday, Murphy also said he would skip Trumps first State of the Union address on Tuesday.

I think that the State of Union speech is going to be a farce. I think its going to be a maga pep rally, not a serious talk to the nation, Murphy said. I think Donald Trump is going to spew a series of lies ... 

Im just not going to be a part of that, he added.
State Democratic operative Sachin Chheda is leaving his job at the state Department of Public Instruction this week to return to political consulting.

Sachin Chheda

State Superintendent Jill Underly tapped Chheda to be executive director of the Office of the State Superintendent in 2023 after he played a major role in helping her get elected state superintendent in 2021. He denied the $138,000-a-year job was a reward for his campaign work.

Underly, who is running for reelection, faces education consultant Brittany Kinser on April 1.

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In a Feb. 27 email to DPI employees shared with the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Chheda said Underly "lives her values every day" and "we need that values-based leadership so much at this difficult moment."

To be frank," Chheda continued in the email, "events in the larger world compel me to fully re-enter the political arena, which I cannot effectively do as a state employee."

Chheda said he will help Underly's campaign in an informal capacity but will focus his work on issues, not candidates.

"The Trump-Vance-Musk folks are actively destroying the American experiment, and I will be working through organizing and advocacy to restore America's promise," he told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

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Chheda has worked in state Democratic politics for years. He ran Gov. Tony Evers' 2009 campaign for state superintendent and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson's campaign to become the city's first elected Black mayor in 2022. He also served as an adviser to Janet Protasiewicz's campaign when she ran for election to the Wisconsin Supreme Court in 2023.

WisPolitics first reported the news Monday.

Kelly Meyerhofer covers higher education in Wisconsin. Contact her at kmeyerhofer@gannett.com or 414-223-5168. Follow her on X (Twitter) at @KellyMeyerhofer.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin Democrat Sachin Chheda leaving DPI for political consulting
When President Donald Trump delivers his address to a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill on Tuesday night, hell see some workers in the audience who just lost their jobs because of him.

Several Democratic lawmakers have said they plan to bring fired federal employees as their guests to the Capitol for Trumps address. The move is meant to highlight the sloppiness and cruelty of the administrations sweeping cuts to the federal workforce led by Elon Musk, the head of Trumps so-called Department of Government Efficiency.

The attendees will represent laid-off workers from a slew of federal agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

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Rep. Brad Schneider, an Illinois Democrat, said his guest would be Adam Mulvey, an Army veteran who lost his job as an emergency management specialist at Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago. According to Schneiders office, Mulvey was among the up to 200,000 federal probationary employees fired in February before attaining stronger job protections.

It is disgraceful that Elon Musk and a group of unelected, unvetted DOGE Bros are treating veterans like Adam with arrogant disrespect and utter disregard, Schneider said in a statement.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) said she would be bringing Doug Kowalewski, a geomorphologist from Wellesley, Massachusetts, who lost his job at the National Science Foundation. The research agency is facing painful staff and funding reductions under the Trump administration.

Trump and Musk are gutting our research and innovation pipeline and our local economy in Massachusetts, Warren said in a statement. That isnt efficient  its cruel, short-sighted, and its costing American jobs and devastating millions of families.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren is among the Democrats who plan to bring fired federal employees to Trump's address to Congress. SAUL LOEB via Getty Images

Lawmakers often use their invitations to these events to make a statement about the sitting presidents policies, so its no surprise Democrats are taking the opportunity to put faces on Trumps cuts to government services.

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Unions have said that most of the administrations layoffs so far are illegal since they ignored due process standards or encroached on Congress control of federal funding. Many of the firings are being challenged in court and through government labor boards.

A federal judge in California said late last week that White House memos ordering the layoffs of probationary employees were illegal and should be rescinded.

Meanwhile, the administration has pressured thousands more workers to leave the government through a deferred resignation offer known as Fork in the Road. The Office of Personnel Management says workers who accept it would receive pay through September while doing little or no work, though the proposal appears illegal since Congress hasnt appropriated money beyond March 14 yet.

As HuffPost reported, Trumps bureaucratic shakeup has caused a lot of chaos and unnecessary waste, with some fired workers having to be rehired and agencies scrambling to understand the White Houses directives.

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Rep. April McClain Delaney hopes to underscore how counterproductive these cuts could be. The Maryland Democrat said she plans to attend the speech with Matthew Fessler, who lost his job as a health care specialist at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

His chief job was finding waste, fraud, and abuse within a federal agencybut [he] was fired by DOGE in pursuit of cutting waste, fraud, and abuse, McClain Delaneys office said in a statement.

Are you a federal employee with something to share? You can email our reporter here, or contact him over Signal at davejamieson.99.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story referred to President Donald Trumps address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night by an incorrect name.
Congressional Democrats are lining up to bring fired federal workers to President Trumps high-profile speech before Congress on Tuesday night.

The Democrats have hammered Trump for the blitz of firings that have accompanied his return to the White House  a campaign being led by Elon Musk and the so-called Department of Government Efficiency  accusing the president of dismantling the very institutions that make the country run.

To broadcast that opposition, many lawmakers have invited former federal employees who were laid off in recent weeks to be in the House chamber for Trumps first major speech since his return to power. The idea is to showcase the human effects of Trumps firing spree all across the country. With that in mind, the list of attendees extends far beyond the Washington-metro region.

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In north Illinois, Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Ill.) has invited Adam Mulvey, an Army veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, who was fired last month from a federal health center in Chicago.

In the Bronx, Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.) will attend with Nancy Bolan, another federal health worker who was fired in January from the U.S. Agency for International Development.

From coastal California, Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.) is bringing Ben Vizzachero, a U.S. Forest Service employee who was recently terminated from his job at the Los Padres National Forest.

In Queens, Rep. Grace Meng (D-N.Y.) has invited Luke Graziani, an Army veteran who served two tours each in Iraq and Afghanistan. He was let go last month after working for almost a year at a veterans health facility in the Bronx.

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In Arizona, Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) will accompany Kyle Rahn, a disabled Army veteran who served three tours in Iraq before his move to the Department of Homeland Security, where he served as a national security specialist. Rahn was fired last month by email.

The list goes on.

While the immediate effect of the Democrats strategy is highly limited  the invitees are not high-profile figures, so Trump wont recognize them as he delivers his speech  the lawmakers are hoping their participation will bring attention not only to the administrations government-gutting efforts, but the elimination of the federal services those workers once provided.

These terminations jeopardize those services, put our communities at risk, and have a very real impact on the lives of dedicated public servants, Panetta said.

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NAIROBI, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The Horn of Africa is expected to be warmer than usual between March and May, the Climate Prediction and Applications Center (ICPAC) of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), a regional bloc, reported on Monday.

The weather agency said in its latest forecast that warmer-than-usual conditions are expected across most of the region, except in southeastern South Sudan and northeastern Uganda.

Temperatures during this period could rise above 32 degrees Celsius in some countries, while several regions, including western and southwestern Kenya, eastern Uganda, eastern South Sudan, western Ethiopia and most of Tanzania, are expected to experience wetter-than-usual conditions, according to ICPAC.

Drier-than-usual conditions are forecast for most parts of Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, western Uganda and South Sudan. The expected weather anomalies in the region are attributed to climate change, with the Horn of Africa being one of the most vulnerable areas.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and IGAD, about 66.9 million people in the Horn of Africa are food insecure, a number that is likely to rise due to increasing weather anomalies. 
Democrats say they are wary of the D-word.

On the heels of a grueling loss in the presidential election in November, Democrats find themselves grappling with how and when to warn the public about the threat President Trump poses to democracy.

It is a narrative Democrats sought to push hard during the election as everyone from Joe Biden to Kamala Harris and Barack Obama warned of the danger Trump posed to the nations framework.

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But in the months since their election loss, party operatives have largely concluded those efforts failed. And they did little to convince wide swaths of voters Trump was the menace Democrats portrayed him to be.

The problem with that message is that the people who were motivated by that, weve already got, Democratic strategist Joel Payne said. It has a limited ceiling on it in terms of a growth message.

Now, as Democrats watch Trump reshape the government and change the traditional ways Washington works, party operatives have been hesitant to frame the argument simply around democracy.

That is the case even after Friday, when many Democrats were shocked by the Oval Office shouting match involving Trump, Vice President Vance and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky.

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A number of Democrats viewed that blowup as a U.S. president siding with an autocrat in Russian President Vladimir Putin over an advocate for democracy in Zelensky. Still, they think any political message centered on Trumps threat to democracy as needing to be reshaped, if its used at all.

In an interview on MSNBC this week, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) underscored the predicament Democrats find themselves in: how to call out Trump on his unprecedented actions.

The things Im speaking out about now, about, you know, the threat to our democracy, this is not a message to win elections on, its something people need to know, Pritzker told MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace on Deadline: White House. They need to know that thats whats happening.

But Pritzker, like other Democrats, said they simply cant say Trump is tearing down democracy without providing specific examples about what they mean.

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The reality is, what people need to hear about is what the effects of that are, he said. The prices at the grocery store are going up because democracy is being taken away, the impact on you in terms of your health care, 770,000 people in Illinois will lose health care as a result of what Donald Trump and Elon Musk and the Republican Congress are doing right now.

Democratic strategist Christy Setzer backed that sentiment, saying Democrats have to communicate that it really just means a loss of control in their messaging to the public.

Your vote doesnt matter. Your government makes every decision for you. Your job is to line Donald Trumps and Elon Musks pockets, and you get nothing in return, Setzer said of how Democrats should drive the narrative on democracy.

At the same time, Republican strategist Doug Heye  who does not support Trump  said Democrats should avoid even the most nuanced explanations on the topic.

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Democrats should have learned the lesson that voters sent them, which is that it is not a winning issue to campaign on, Heye said. So its not about fine-tuning the messaging on that, its about talking to voters about the things that they are saying very loudly that they care the most about.

The real test to date for Democrats will be if Trump defies the courts, political observers say.

Susan Del Percio, the veteran Republican strategist who also does not support Trump, said while the pillars are certainly cracked, a break-the-glass, call to action moment hasnt happened.

People think of our democracy as elections, they think of three branches of government. Thats really what it comes down to for a lot of people, Del Percio said. But if Trump goes against the Supreme Court, then we have thrown out the rule of law which is the true foundation of our country.

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The mere threat of it, she added, doesnt land that punch.

Democratic strategist Anthony Coley disagreed, saying Democrats should seize the moment and talk about how Trump is upsetting the norms in the early days of his presidency.

That helps lay the predicate for the downstream impact of all his unforced errors down the road, Coley said. Theres going to be a moment when people come to their senses, when they realize that what hes doing is not what they bargained for.

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President Donald Trump will address a joint session of Congress on Tuesday for the first time in five years. Democrats are determined not to make their response all about him.

That might come as a surprise for those who remember what ensued during Trumps first term. His congressional addresses became a prominent stage for the Democratic resistance, with lawmakers booing, chanting and walking out at times. Many chose outfits and invited guests to make a point. Most famously, in 2020, then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi tore up a copy of Trumps speech while seated directly behind him on the dais.

This time, many Democrats are signaling theyll take a less pugilistic stance  the latest sign that the party is still coming to terms with how to confront the president, even as the party base grows increasingly restless.

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In 2017, a lot of us felt like Donald Trump was an anomaly. In 2025, he won the election. Everybody knows who he is. He said what he was going to do, and the country still voted for him, so I think we have to be very strategic as Democrats, said Rep. Ami Bera (D-Calif.).

That strategy, 10 Democratic lawmakers said in interviews, is to use the speech to focus on the impacts of Trumps second-term policies. Some are bringing guests to highlight the Trump administrations radical overhaul of the federal bureaucracy, including union leaders, laid-off government workers and others affected by the federal funding freeze.

Just a protest isn't going to win us the next election, Bera said. Instead, we should say, Look, that's what he's doing.

Several Democrats said they were just as interested in highlighting the cuts implemented by the Department of Government Efficiency, run by billionaire hatchet man Elon Musk, as they were in shining a light on Trump himself.

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In fact, private guidance sent to Democratic lawmakers and obtained by POLITICO urged them to coalesce around a message that Democrats are on the side of the American people while Trump and Republicans in Congress stand with Elon Musk and billionaire donors. They are also being urged to bring a guest who has been harmed by the Trump administrations early actions or will be hurt by the House Republican budget.

Notably, there does not appear to be a mass Democratic boycott of Trumps speech in the works, as there was in past years. Rather than skip the speech, some Democrats said they wanted to show that Trump faces opposition  the image of seated, stern-faced Democrats while Republicans stand and cheer. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) said it was important that the viewing public sees a significant presence of us there.

Its not a universal sentiment. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.), who represents a substantial population of federal employees in his suburban district just outside Washington, said hell skip the speech after attending addresses during Trumps first term.

The notion of half my colleagues rising and standing and enormous clapping for  things that I think are terrible for the American people every couple minutes will not be funny, he said. I don't see that I'll contribute anything to the event.

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Tuesdays speech is not technically a State of the Union, but it will go off with much of the same pomp and circumstance. Trump is widely expected to use the speech as a theatrical spectacle not only to show off his overhaul of the federal government and his dismantling of Democratic priorities but to create viral moments that will delight his MAGA base. (In 2020, for instance, he awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to talk show host Rush Limbaugh live from the rostrum.)

Democratic leaders are indicating they will not take the bait as they try to keep the focus on Trumps policies and the cost of living. They chose Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan to deliver the partys official response  a lawmaker who ran a disciplined campaign last year focusing on economic issues and won a state where Trump also prevailed.

Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.) has been tapped to give a Spanish-language response, with party leaders signaling that he, too, could be discussing economic issues. The progressive Working Families Party has Rep. Lateefah Simon (D-Calif.) delivering a separate left-flank rebuttal.

Asked about the speech, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Thursday that Trump needed to answer the questions: Why has he failed to do anything to lower the high cost of living in the United States of America, and why has the Trump administration unleashed far-right extremism on the American people in a way that represents an assault on the American way of life?

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Large-scale disruption is still unlikely. Some lawmakers have privately discussed walking out as an entire caucus during the speech or wearing pink hats in protest, but theres less enthusiasm for such demonstrations than in past years.

Thats not to say lawmakers arent upset. Many Democrats are still figuring out how to channel their anger with Trump over lingering memories of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection and fresher emotions over his pardons of the rioters, along with the president's continued dismantling of cherished federal programs.

Hes so much more abusive, but my job is to be there, said Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.), who is bringing as her guest a fire chief from her southern California district to highlight planned FEMA cuts.

One more conspicuous gesture of protest will come from members of the Democratic Womens Caucus, which will be making a statement with their choice of clothing, according to Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-N.M.), the groups chair. Its a reprise of a gesture they employed during the first Trump term, when they wore white to honor suffragettes.

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Women across this country are furious, she said. And so I think we're going to bring that fury to the State of the Union in creative ways, and we're going to make sure that Trump knows and that Americans who are watching understand Trump's America.

At least one prominent Trump antagonist could be among them: Pelosi plans to attend, according to a spokesperson.
A group of centrist Democrats is being mocked and criticized for their new strategy to defeat Donald Trump and Republicans.

Earlier this month, the centrist think tank Third Way gathered the group, which included Democratic consultants, campaign staffers, elected officials, and party leaders, in Loudoun County, Virginia, to come up with a game plan on how to return to relevancy, Politico reports. But the resulting conclusions seemed way off base.

For example, among the 20 solutions suggested for the party were to embrace patriotism, community, and traditional American imagery; ban far-left candidate questionnaires and refuse to participate in forums that create ideological purity tests; and push back against far-left staffers and groups that exert a disproportionate influence on policy and messaging.

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The plan also included a proposal to move away from the dominance of small-dollar donors whose preferences may not align with the broader electorate, which would seem to reject the money of many working-class donors and elevate billionaires and millionaires at a time when the Trump administration is being criticized as a wealthy oligarchy.

When Politico published its report on Sunday, the findings were immediately torn apart on social media.

X screenshot Kat Abu @abughazalehkat No one at this retreat should be allowed to work on a Democratic campaign ever again. Quote tweet of the main bullet points that came out of the meeting

X screenshot Talia Jane  @taliaotg: are they trying to lose 2:35 PM  Mar 2, 2025  27.2K Views

X screenshot Kristi Yamaguccimane @TheWapplehouse how in the fuck do you square these two things highlighted: "move away from the dominance of small-dollar donors whose preferences may not align with the broader electorate and "candidates should get out of elite circles and into real communities (e.g., tailgates, gun shows, local restaurants, churches)

X screenshot John McIntyre @johnemcintyre So success for Democrats is looking more like Republicans, abandoning the base for am imagined white majority. 3:51 PM  Mar 2, 2025  32 Views

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One commentator pointed out that if Democrats were going to be rejecting small-dollar donors, they would shift toward wealthier campaign contributors coming from corporate sources.

X screenshot Organizermemes @OrganizerMemes: Meme of a goose saying "Whose money are you relying on if you don't want small donors?" Bottom half of meme shows a man running away labeled "Centrist Consultants" The goose is running after him asking the same question again.

The irony of meeting in Loudoun County, a wealthy Washington, D.C. suburb in northern Virginia, while concluding that candidates should get out of elite circles and into real communities (e.g., tailgates, gun shows, local restaurants, churches) was not lost on at least one critic.

X screenshot Rock/Hard Place @txtarheeldad: Bullet 5: Party should get out of elite circles and into normal communities. They write this as they meet in Loudoun County!!! One of the most expensive in the  8:05 PM  Mar 2, 2025  7,894 Views

None of the conclusions seem to really get at what has worked for Democrats in the past or reinforce what popular Democrats, such as Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, are doing right now. Democrats need to go back to their working-class roots to win back working-class voters, and unsurprisingly, a meeting of party elites in a rich locale isnt going to yield any solutions on how to do that.
Democrats spent one-and-a-half days cooking up a game plan for a comeback after a devastating loss against President Donald Trump last Novemberand it includes moving away from left-wing figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and the small-dollar donors that fueled their rise to the national stage.

A large group of Democratsconsultants, campaign staffers, elected officials, and party leadersgathered in Loudoun County, Virginia for a brief retreat in early February to identify the partys weaknesses and chart a path forward, according to Politico .

The gathering was organized by centrist Democratic think tank Third Way. Matt Bennett, the organizations executive vice president for public affairs, told Politico that after November it became so evident that the things that the left was doing and saying deeply hurt Harris and down-ballot Democrats.

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A lot of people are looking to us, not just Third Way, but the moderates in the party, and saying, We got to do it your way, because the other way aint working, he said.

New @playbookdc: Last month, a group of moderate Democratic consultants, campaign staffers, elected officials & party leaders gathered in Loudoun County, Virginia, for a retreat where they plotted their partys comeback.



We got their takeaways. pic.twitter.com/lA1nVshriG  Adam Wren (@adamwren) March 2, 2025

The group emerged from the February retreat with a five-page list of takeaways centered around Democrats disconnect from the working class over cultural and economic issues, and what the party can do to fix it.

The statements below are not necessarily endorsed by all those attending the Comeback Retreat, the document states. And, as agreed to, are not attributed to any individual who participated.

The biggest themes included moving away from the left wing of the party and toward a thoughtful form of populism, as well as embracing capitalism in a more explicit way.

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The group blamed the partys disconnect with the working class partly on progressive figures, left-wing staffers, and activist groups.

Activist groups and progressive staffers push unpopular cultural positions, making it seem like Democrats are more extreme than they actually are, they said, stressing the need to reject fringe positions that alienate the median voter.

The proposed solution to the partys perceived far-left problem was to build up the moderate Democratic base through media, talent pipelines, and communications networks, pushing back against staffers and groups that exert a disproportionate influence on policy and messaging, and banning far-left candidate questionnaires and refuse to participate in forums that create ideological purity tests.

The document also advocated for embracing populism thoughtfully by critiquing corporate excess and corruption but avoid[ing] an anti-capitalist stance.

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Democrats need to stop demonizing wealth and corporations broadly, it read, urging the party to be pro-aspiration & pro-capitalism in a smart way.

At the same time, the summary recommended getting out of elite circles and into real communities like tailgates, gun shows, local restaurants, and churches as part of a bid to spotlight working-class voices.

Democratic economic messages often come from elites, celebrities, and politicians rather than working-class voices that voters can relate to, the document read, while simultaneously urging the party to move away from the dominance of small-dollar donors whose preferences may not align with the broader electorate.

Earlier this month, Sanders launched a Fighting Oligarchy tour to hit back at Trump and his billionaire buddies like Elon Musk.

The oligarchs and the billionaire class are getting richer and richer and have more and more power, the Vermont senator, 83, said in a statement. Meanwhile, 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck and most of our people are struggling to pay for health care, childcare, and housing. This country belongs to all of us, not just the few. We must fight back.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) made the rounds on major news networks on Sunday, saying he wants to pass a clean continuing resolution to fund the government through September  the end of the fiscal year.

As he pushed for the new plan  dropping all talk of a bipartisan funding agreement and pushing forward with a stopgap bill that would fund the government at current levels  Johnson tried to blame Democrats for GOP leaderships own change of heart.

Why? Johnson asked rhetorically after pushing for the clean CR option on Fox News. Because the Democrats in Congress were trying to demand that as a condition of appropriations, that we would somehow tie the hands of the President, limit his authority, put Elon Musk in a corner and take him off his mission. Were not doing that. Thats a non-starter, and Democrats know that, so I hope theyll be reasonable.

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Johnson is referring to a request congressional Democrats involved in the funding negotiation process have made in response to the Trump administration and DOGE taking a sledgehammer to federal funds that have already been allocated by Congress.

Democrats say in order for them to support passing legislation  either a CR or a bipartisan spending bill  to keep the government funded past the March 14 deadline, theyd need some sort of guarantee that Trump and Musk will stop rescinding and withholding congressionally approved funding and spend federal funds the way they were appropriated.

Lets be clear, the Democrat demand is really simple, Sen. Chris Coons (D-DE) told TPM last week, with a mocking emphasis on the word demand. Its that the President commits to following the law. Thats it. Its not a big deal  The guardrails that we are asking for are really minimal. Its just: spend the money as we all appropriated,

In response to Johnsons clean CR plans, as well as the finger pointing and refusal to consider Democrats request  that the President follow the law  House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) accused Republicans of walking away from government funding talks ahead of the looming shutdown deadline.

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The top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, Rosa De Lauro, remains ready, willing and able to talk with our Republican colleagues, but there has been zero outreach from the Trump administration and House Republicans have walked away from the negotiating table, Jeffries said in a Sunday afternoon statement.

Reacting to Johnsons clean CR push, Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL) also made it clear he wont be onboard.

I will not vote for a clean CR. I will not vote for the status quo, Moskowitz said in a X post on Sunday.

I will not vote for a clean CR. I will not vote for the status quo. https://t.co/V0AiDphoS9 pic.twitter.com/VEdmD99Rmt  Jared Moskowitz (@JaredEMoskowitz) March 2, 2025

The reality is Republican leadership will almost certainly need Democrats to pass a clean stopgap to fund the government through September and avoid a shutdown.

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Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-OH), who voted against the last CR Johnson worked out with President Joe Biden and Democrats, said hed be a no on funding the government at current levels.

I am a NO on the CR, Gonzales said in an X statement. Congress needs to do its job and pass a conservative budget! CRs are code for Continued Rubberstamp of fraud, waste, and abuse.

I am a NO on the CR. Congress needs to do its job and pass a conservative budget! CRs are code for Continued Rubberstamp of fraud, waste, and abuse.  Tony Gonzales (@TonyGonzales4TX) March 2, 2025

It is likely more GOP hardliners, notoriously allergic to short term spending bills, will join Gonzales, dooming Johnsons clean CR vision without the support of Democrats.
PARIS  Denmark picked Norwegian ammunition maker Nammo to restart a shuttered ammo plant for production of small- and large-caliber ammunition, the countrys defense ministry said.

Nammo can begin producing ammunition for the Danish forces and others at the shuttered plant in northern Denmark as soon as the production facilities are set up, Denmarks Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Friday. Final negotiations with Nammo are still pending, including a timetable on when actual ammunition production will start.

The deteriorating security situation, the war in Ukraine and an updated threat assessment by the Danish Defense Intelligence Service emphasize the importance of ensuring future ammunition production in Denmark, Defence Minister Troels Lund Poelsen said. This will make a difference to the security of supply for Denmark, the Nordic region and Europe.

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However, ammunition stocks are needed now, and Denmark plans to rapidly build up its stock of mortar and artillery shells even before production can start at Elling, partly to match an assessment of Russias potential build-up of combat power, the ministry said.

Lund Poelsen said its crucial to start building up the Danish Armed Forces ammunition stockpiles as soon as possible, and he will decide on action in the short term together with the parties.

The Danish government last month agreed to allocate an additional 50 billion Danish kroner ($7 billion) to defense over the coming two years, boosting defense spending to more than 3% of GDP in 2025 and 2026.

Denmark agreed to buy the shuttered facilities at Elling in northern Jutland in October 2023, with the stated aim of exploring options for establishing domestic ammunition production. The country had sold the ammunition production activities to Expal in 2008 , and the company ceased production at the site in 2020 after several years of losses.

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The ammunition plant at Elling traces its roots back to the Fyrvrkerikompagniet set up in Copenhagen in 1676.

Nammo will produce 155 mm and 120 mm shells at the Elling plant, as well as 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm caliber cartridges, the ministry said. All four are NATO standard calibers.

Nammo has what it takes to become a long-term and solid partner for Denmark, with deep industrial and technical expertise, established supply chains, and solid Norwegian-Finnish ownership to bolster lasting Nordic cooperation, Nammo CEO Morten Brandtzg said in a statement . We look forward to finalizing an agreement to get production started.

The Norwegian company says its working on improving ammunition interchangeability in the Nordic region, and that will improve with new production in Denmark.

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Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022 exposed European shortcomings in ammunition manufacturing, with facilities shuttered or scaled down due to lack of demand after the end of the Cold War. Ukraine has at times faced artillery shell shortages as its allies depleted stocks and struggled to ramp up production, though the European Union now expects to produce 2 million shells by the end of 2025, double the pace from a year ago.

Nammo is jointly owned by the Norwegian state and Finlands Patria, with the latter owned for 50.1% by the Finnish state and the remainder held by Norways Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. Kongsberg in turn is 50.1% owned by the Norwegian state.
DES MOINES, Iowa  The Des Moines Fire Department announced the passing of one of their own on Sunday.

According to the Des Moines Firefighters Facebook, Malcom Cortner, 42, died Sunday around 6:30 a.m. following a battle with glioblastoma. Cortner was a firefighter and paramedic with the Des Moines Fire Department.

Malcolm was an incredible person and stood with us at the capital fighting last year for expanded cancer benefits while battling his own battle, part of the post reads.

1 killed, 1 injured in Worth County crash

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During his time with the DMFD, Cortner responded to a fire and helped rescue a 16-month-old dog. Due to the dogs injuries, the owner chose euthanasia, but Cortner asked to take possession of the dog and arranged treatment at his own expense.

Cortner also served as a board member for the Winterset Community School District. In a Facebook post, they ask the community to keep Malcolm and his family in your thoughts. Thank you to him and his family for his service to the district and to the community.

This announcement follows the Des Moines Firefighters Unions ongoing efforts to extend medical coverage to cover cancer for Iowas fire responders. The bill, SF 272, passed through its Senate subcommittee on Wednesday.

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Great news: Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that Florida is getting its own DOGE squad.

Let the tears begin!

Im excited about this effort to take some of what weve seen in Washington that theyre doing with Elon Musk and apply it to Florida, DeSantis said at a press conference earlier this week.

Im excited too. Florida DOGE  which stands for DeSantis Obviously Getting Envious  will finally address the rampant government waste in the state.

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In the interest of helping out, I have a few slam-dunk examples of how DeSantis can demonstrate that he means business with the Florida DOGE.

Desantis wants to get rid of waste? Let's stop defending political theater.

For starters, he can go after the foolish waste of money Florida taxpayers have incurred in order to defend laws serving as political stunts.

For example, the state of Florida just paid $725,000 in legal fees and costs to companies that successfully challenged the states Stop WOKE Act, a law that attempts to prevent private companies from conducting workplace training that deals with diversity and race-based issues.

I know. Ridiculous.

The clearly flawed attempt to coerce private businesses to abandon their free-speech rights in order to parrot the political views of a particular political party has been an unconstitutional exploding cigar.

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Yet, it was passed so (name redacted) could say woke for as long as it takes for him to get a better job outside of Florida.

Gov. Ron DeSantis pushed for "Stop Woke" restrictions on how race is discussed in schools, universities and workplaces, among other things.

As a result, not only did taxpayers get stuck paying the attorneys fees of the companies that sued, but the state also retained its own Washington, D.C.-based lawyers, who billed at $725 an hour each.

Thats a lot of wasted money that could have been used elsewhere, such as filling the need for social workers.

According to ZipRecruiter, the average social worker salary in Florida is about $57,000.

So, instead of paying lawyers to defend indefensible political theater, Florida could have used that money to hire 127 social workers.

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Go DOGE that.

Cut wasteful spending on immigration stunt

And while youre at it, there has been a lot of waste, fraud and abuse involved in the political stunt of flying asylum-seeking migrants in other states around the country.

Tricking 50 Venezuelans who were legally seeking asylum in Texas to board a plane chartered by Florida taxpayers in order to dump them in Marthas Vineyard has been costly. Floridians have paid at least $1.6 million to an aviation company and another $1 million or so in legal fees in trying to mop up the aftermath of what amounted to the most expensive attempt by a person to be a guest on Fox News.

Immigrants gather outside a church on Martha's Vineyard, in Massachusetts, in 2022 after Gov. Ron DeSantis flew them there from Texas. He chartered two private planes using taxpayers' money to bring awareness to President Joe Biden's immigration policies.

In per-capita terms, the stunt cost Florida taxpayers about $35,000 for each Texas Venezuelan. I think it's safe to say that spending Florida tax dollars on Texas Venezuelans is a sterling example of waste, fraud and abuse.

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Go DOGE that.

DeSantis talked about needing to DOGE the state university system in Florida. I couldnt agree more.

DeSantis wastes taxpayer money on unqualified university hires

Career educators have been pushed aside and forced to resign in order to hand college and university president jobs in Florida to unqualified DEI (DeSantis Entwined Individual) hires.

As a result, former Florida House Speaker and state Education Secretary Richard Corcoran is running New College of Florida for a compensation package that is worth an estimated $1.3 million  far more than the $305,000 salary the career university administrator who was pushed aside had been paid.

Florida Lt. Governor Jeanette Nunez and Governor Ron DeSantis watch as Kennedy Space Center Director Janet Petro signs a Memorandum Of Understanding with the Interim President of the University of Florida Kent Fuchs, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University President P. Barry Butler and University of Central Florida President Alexander Cartwright that will create the states official space research consortium January 8, 2025. Craig Bailey/FLORIDA TODAY via USA TODAY NETWORK

At Florida International University (FIU), Jeanette Nunez has traded in her $135,000-per-year state job as lieutenant governor to take over at FIU in Miami, where she will have her own provided home and a compensation package expected to be worth about $1 million per year.

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Same thing goes with Adam Hasner, a former Republican lawmaker who found work as a private prison executive. Somehow, he has been deemed worthy of the presidency at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), where he too will be making close to $1 million in salary and other compensation.

Thats a lot of pressure on state university foundations, who have to foot most of the bill because a state law limits pay to university presidents at $200,000 per year.

More: Woke alert! Political indoctrination (right-wing) now on syllabus at New College | Opinion

Using taxpayers dollars to fund political ads seems pretty wasteful, DeSantis

And heres another DOGE issue.

In November, about 55.9 percent of Florida voters said yes to Amendment 3, a proposed Florida amendment that called for legalizing recreational marijuana. That was just short of the 60% threshold needed for passage.

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There was something odd about the lead-up to the vote. While most voters approved the amendment, they also footed the bill for a lot of the advertising against the measure.

Thats because Gov. DeSantis used $50 million in taxpayer money to fund advertisements urging voters to reject the amendment.

Using millions of tax dollars to pay for political ads? That sounds more like government waste than government efficiency.

No matter where you stand on this issue, this is still a democracy. We do not spend taxpayer dollars in advance of a political issue, said Florida state Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, a supporter of the amendment. Tax dollars are meant to be spent on our police, schools, roads, and other public programs that make our state great, not political agendas.

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Go DOGE that too.

The good news about DeSantis taking on waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars in Florida is that he can put on dark sunglasses, tote a chainsaw and get to DOGE-ing without needing to look beyond his own office.

Frank Cerabino is a news columnist with The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network-Florida.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: DeSantis announces Musk-inspired FL DOGE effort. We need it | Opinion
As a Feb. 28 deadline to end diversity programs came and went, New York colleges and universities appeared to be taking a wait and see approach to whether the Trump administration will cut off federal funding.

The State University of New York reaffirmed it would stand by its diversity, equity and inclusion commitments. Columbia University removed DEI references from school websites and made changes to race-based graduations, though it intends to follow through with the ceremonies.

On Feb. 14, the U.S. Education Department gave schools two weeks to drop all policies and actions that treat students differently based on race. Colleges that do not comply risk unwanted scrutiny or a significant hit to their bottom lines, but few in New York have made sweeping changes.

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Overall, the reaction in the city  more than the rest of the country  is kind of a wait and see posture, said Ann Marcus, a professor of college leadership and administration at New York University. You dont want to go turning anything upside down and find out its not that serious.

The guidance, in what is known as a Dear Colleague letter, dramatically expanded the Supreme Courts 2023 ruling against affirmative action in college admissions to all race-based efforts in schools. The memo, which provides notice of the Trump administrations interpretation of existing law, is currently being challenged in court.

New York higher education leaders say the law is on their side.

This week, SUNY Chancellor John King, a former U.S. Secretary of Education under President Obama, declared he had no intention of retreating from diversity and inclusion. He said initiatives such as a pipeline program for Black college leaders would continue  it would just be open to all applicants.

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The missives from the federal government to date have not been consistent with the law, King said Tuesday at a hearing on New Yorks higher education budget.

His counterpart at CUNY made the distinction between the Education Departments guidance and his interpretation of the law.

The Dear Colleague letter is a guidance letter, said Chancellor Felix Matos Rodriguez, who said they would make any changes as needed. But until that happens, weve been working around all applicable federal and state and city law.

Columbia, which became a target of the GOPs ire during last years pro-Palestinian protests, has taken additional steps to fall in line. The school has retracted the public DEI statements of some programs, removed faculty diversity data, and revised a calendar of multicultural graduation events. The missing diversity statements were first detected by the student newspaper, Columbia Spectator.

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Special graduations for affinity groups gained popularity across American universities, including at Columbia, where the practice began two decades ago as an opportunity for graduates to celebrate with their community. In recent years, though conservatives have condemned the ceremonies as an example of school-sanctioned segregation.

In a shameful echo of a darker period in this countrys history, many American schools and universities even encourage segregation by race at graduation ceremonies, read the Education Department guidance, which explicitly declared the practice unlawful.

Since last month, Columbia has removed any reference to diversity from the schedule, according to a review of the digital archive Wayback Machine. And while the ceremonies are scheduled to continue, they will not be called graduations anymore, but Celebrations for Graduates.

Columbia did not return requests for comment, though interim President Katrina Armstrong wrote to students and faculty that for months, the administration has been actively preparing for broader changes to federal policy.

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We cannot predict all that will unfold, but we are actively planning to mitigate the worst effects, she said.

NYU, where President Trumps son Barron is a student, has largely avoided taking any official stance. Last week, the university provost told faculty she heard from many of them expressing concerns about the uncertainty stemming from the Dear College letter and other federal mandates. A NYU spokesman did not return a request for comment.

I want to assure you that there are teams of people across the University, and beyond, closely monitoring these developments, Provost Georgina Dopico wrote in a Feb. 18 memo. As importantly, I want to affirm to you, amidst all of the uncertainty, that NYUs core values and commitments remain unchanged.

NYUs Marcus explained a lack of definitive statements should not be mistaken for inaction.

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In the absence of university-wide guidance, Marcus said some individual schools or programs are making their own decisions about how to proceed. On her campus, she had already heard of one event cancellation from a student.

It doesnt mean that behind the scenes, theyre not making some moves to try to minimize this, Marcus said of college administrators. [The Trump administration] really want to destroy higher education. Its this mania about the elites and universities having progressive ideologies and woke-ness and all that, but its very hostile  and not new.
Visitors watch a collaborative dual-arm robot demonstration during the Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition in Shanghai, east China, March 3, 2025. The 2025 Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition kicked off on Monday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Featuring the participation of about 1,200 domestic and international enterprises from the industry, the exhibition focused on presenting processing solutions tailored for high-demand sectors like new energy vehicles, electronic equipment manufacturing, and aviation equipment.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore an array of displays, highlighting core functional components of CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, sheet metal grinding tools, as well as a variety of related products and cutting-edge technologies. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

A visitor (L) talks with a staff member beside a machine tool exhibit during the Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition in Shanghai, east China, March 3, 2025. The 2025 Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition kicked off on Monday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Featuring the participation of about 1,200 domestic and international enterprises from the industry, the exhibition focused on presenting processing solutions tailored for high-demand sectors like new energy vehicles, electronic equipment manufacturing, and aviation equipment.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore an array of displays, highlighting core functional components of CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, sheet metal grinding tools, as well as a variety of related products and cutting-edge technologies. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

Visitors look at a turning center exhibit during the Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition in Shanghai, east China, March 3, 2025. The 2025 Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition kicked off on Monday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Featuring the participation of about 1,200 domestic and international enterprises from the industry, the exhibition focused on presenting processing solutions tailored for high-demand sectors like new energy vehicles, electronic equipment manufacturing, and aviation equipment.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore an array of displays, highlighting core functional components of CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, sheet metal grinding tools, as well as a variety of related products and cutting-edge technologies. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

Visitors watch a robot demonstration during the Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition in Shanghai, east China, March 3, 2025. The 2025 Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition kicked off on Monday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Featuring the participation of about 1,200 domestic and international enterprises from the industry, the exhibition focused on presenting processing solutions tailored for high-demand sectors like new energy vehicles, electronic equipment manufacturing, and aviation equipment.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore an array of displays, highlighting core functional components of CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, sheet metal grinding tools, as well as a variety of related products and cutting-edge technologies. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

A staff member (3rd R) introduces products to visitors during the Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition in Shanghai, east China, March 3, 2025. The 2025 Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition kicked off on Monday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Featuring the participation of about 1,200 domestic and international enterprises from the industry, the exhibition focused on presenting processing solutions tailored for high-demand sectors like new energy vehicles, electronic equipment manufacturing, and aviation equipment.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore an array of displays, highlighting core functional components of CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, sheet metal grinding tools, as well as a variety of related products and cutting-edge technologies. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

A visitor (1st R) talks with staff members in front of an exhibition booth showcasing key components of machine tools during the Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition in Shanghai, east China, March 3, 2025. The 2025 Shanghai International Machine Tool Exhibition kicked off on Monday at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Featuring the participation of about 1,200 domestic and international enterprises from the industry, the exhibition focused on presenting processing solutions tailored for high-demand sectors like new energy vehicles, electronic equipment manufacturing, and aviation equipment.

Visitors had the opportunity to explore an array of displays, highlighting core functional components of CNC machine tools, laser processing equipment, sheet metal grinding tools, as well as a variety of related products and cutting-edge technologies. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Police released details after two alleged gang members were charged with kidnapping a child at a carwash and robbing him.

On February 22, officers were called for a reported kidnapping at a carwash on Ash Street in Scranton, where two people took a juvenile.

A friend of the victim called Scranton police and informed them the victim had gotten away from the suspects and was running through the woods near the Skyview apartment, police stated.

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A few days later, on February 25, the victim informed officers that he was cleaning his friends car when he saw a vehicle approach him. Two men in ski masks got out and forced him into the car, as stated in the affidavit.

Burglar allegedly assaults man while sleeping

The victim told investigators that, after being taken, the suspects pointed a gun at him and ordered him to give them his clothing and sneakers. After they robbed the victim, the suspects told him to run, according to court documents. Video surveillance at the carwash captured the incident, confirming the victims claims of kidnapping.

Police were later informed that the suspects were allegedly associated with a Dominican gang that attended West Scranton High School.

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Eventually, both suspects were found, and on February 28, the Scranton Police Department arrested 20-year-old Cesar Rodriguez-Hernandez and a 17-year-old juvenile who has not been identified.

Rodriguez-Hernandez has been charged with robbery threat, kidnapping, and other related offenses.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
WELLINGTON  A developer looking to build a high-end development northwest of Wellington has agreed to give up 2 acres to Palm Beach County Fire Rescue so that a new fire station can eventually be built to serve the region.

Scott Backman, the agent for the Rawlings Estates project, acknowledged that his client "is not terribly happy" about giving up the land that will deprive the development of two homes but he added that "we ended up in a good place."

The compromise will result in a 52-unit estate-home development, two fewer than the 54 that had been discussed. Each of the homes in the community off 180th Avenue North near Sycamore Drive is expected to sell for more than $1 million.

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The county's Facilities Development and Operations department, the agency that oversees land purchases for county departments, made the unprecedented request on behalf of Fire Rescue, which said it is taking nearly 11 minutes for first responders to address an emergency in the area, higher than its goal of 7 minutes, 30 seconds.

Since the developer was asking for significant zoning changes, county officials argued that it was only fair that it give the 2 acres to Fire Rescue. Current zoning permits only one home per 10 acres. With the change approved Thursday, the builder will be able to build up to one home per acre or a 10-fold increase. The homes are near the community's southern boundary.

"This is about accommodating the growth that is occurring," Fire Chief Patrick Kennedy said. "This is about planning for the future. It is a public safety issue."

Public safety: As western suburbs boom, new Palm Beach County Fire Rescue stations improve response times

Fire Station 22 has seen a 40% increase in calls the past four years

It is common for developers of large-planned unit communities to provide civic sites to the county equal to about 2% of the development parcel. Some of those civic sites are used for new fire stations. GL Homes, for example, routinely does it. Developers can pay the county the estimated value of the land.

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Fire Station 22, which serves The Acreage-Westlake area near the Rawlings Estate site, has seen calls increase by nearly 40% in the past four years, and with more homes coming to Westlake, the calls and response times are likely to increase, officials say. Fire Station 22 is 4 miles away from Rawlings Estates.

That raises concern for elevated risk for life and property by introducing additional population not considered by county planners, the county warned commissioners in its report on the development.

Vice Mayor Sara Baxter, who represents the western suburbs on the County Commission, thanked the applicant for reaching a compromise and agreeing to give up the land for a fire station.

New contract: County firefighters getting a shorter work week, wage increases to aid recruiting, retention

Chart tracks the increase in response times to emergencies at Station 22. Fire Rescue has called on a builder to give it land for a new station if it wants the county to approve a needed zoning change that it needs for the project to be built. Station 22 is the station that would respond to emergencies at Rawlings Estates. Palm Beach County Zoning Division

Commissioner Gregg Weiss pushed Fire Rescue to build the new station as soon as it could. The land will be turned over prior to the first residents moving in.

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"What I see too often is that we get these civic sites and they sit there for 20 years," Weiss added. "This is a health and safety issue. I want to see a commitment that we get this built. We have identified the need. We need to take care of it."

The construction cost, which the county will pay, is expected to be more than $12 million. Fire Rescue has launched a widespread program to add more stations in an effort to improve response times.

Mike Diamond is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. He covers Palm Beach County government and issues impacting homeowner associations. You can reach him at mdiamond@pbpost.com. Help support local journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Developer gives Palm Beach County land for Wellington fire station
Getting a Valley Metro ticket, and knowing which one is right for you, can be a bit tricky.

Until just recently, light rail passengers could only purchase tickets at the stop. This has changed. With the new Valley Metro App, riders can purchase tickets ahead of time, paying the exact amount they need. This also works with bus passes.

There are also discounted options for people with disabilities, people older than 65, children ages 6 through 18 and Medicare holders. Free passes may also be available to people experiencing homelessness.

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Here's everything you need to know about how to purchase public transit tickets in metro Phoenix and how to apply to discounted and free options.

Public transit pricing

A one-way ticket for either the light rail or the bus starts at $2. For a full-day pass, riders can spend $4 for unlimited rides. The full-day pass also includes transfers between light rail stations and bus stations.

Some employers located in metro Phoenix may offer discounted daily passes  contact your employer for more information.

Get Valley Metro bus route information here.

Reduced fare program

If you are not employed, or if your employer doesnt have passes available, Valley Metro has what is called a Reduced Fare Program.

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The Reduced Fare Program is available to youth, seniors, persons with disabilities and Medicare cardholders. When asked for proof of eligibility for the program when riding the metro, program participants can provide the following:

Persons with disabilities: Valley Metro Reduced Fare ID Card.

Seniors (65 and older): Valley Metro Reduced Fare ID Card, drivers license or state ID.

Youth (6-18): Valley Metro Reduced Fare ID card, drivers license, state ID card or high school student ID with photo and current school year.

Medicare cardholders: Upon request, proof of ID is required.

How to apply for Valley Metro's Reduced Fare ID card

What exactly is a Valley Metro Reduced Fare ID Card, and how do you get one? Phoenix residents wishing to obtain a Reduced Fare ID Card can find and complete the application online (valleymetro.org/fares/reduced-fare-program). When applying for a card, keep in mind that it will cost $5.

Before you fill out the application, lets run through some of the basics. First, the application does have to be taken in person or sent by mail. To do this, fill out the application and take or mail it to either the downtown Phoenix location (4600 E. Washington St., Suite 101) or to the Tempe location (Tempe Transportation Center, 200 E. Fifth St.).

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Persons with disabilities are required to mail the application to the downtown Phoenix location.

Each application will require a copy of one of the required documents:

Persons with disabilities: Qualifying letter that proves Social Security Disability Insurance, Supplemental Security Income or a disability recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs, plus a photo ID.

Youth (6-18) : Drivers license or state ID card, current years student ID with photo, birth certificate.

Seniors (65 and older): State or federal ID (drivers license, passport, state ID, birth certificate, etc.).

Medicare Cardholders: Medicare card and a photo ID.

If you submit your application in person, make sure to bring one of the mentioned documents with you.

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If you mail the application, make sure to scan and print your documents. This can be done with a PDF app on your mobile phone or with a scanner. Apple and Samsung phones have PDF scanners built into the Notes applications. If you dont have access to one at home, visit your local library. Here, you can also print your documents and likely mail them from the same location.

Free passes are also available

If you arent currently in a place where you can afford transit passes, the Homeless Service Provider Program from Valley Metro supplies transit passes to local shelters.

Reach out to your local shelter or organization and ask them about the possibility of obtaining a Metro Pass.

Republic reporter Laura Daniella Sepulveda contributed to this article.

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This reporting was produced in collaboration with The Arizona Republic/La Voz and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalisms course on Community Engagement Reporting, an effort to build trust and reach underrepresented and underserved communities of metro Phoenix.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How can I get discounted Valley Metro bus, light rail passes?
ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)  The commissioner of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) put out a statement on Sunday afternoon giving striking correction officers another chance to return to work before losing health insurance.

DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello III shared the statement on the departments official social media accounts at about 12:20 p.m. on March 2. In the statement, Martuscello said that any officers and sergeants who remain on strike on Monday, March 3, will lose their health insurance that day. The strikers dependents will also lose their healthcare, and this termination will be backdated to the date the officer began striking. According to the statement, strikers will not be eligible for COBRA, a federal program that allows some workers to keep their insurance at a premium after losing their jobs.

Martuscello made a personal appeal for strikers to return; he stated that he wants strikers to return even if they missed shifts. This statement comes less than 24 hours after strikers were sent a message through the New York State Department of Employee Relations that stated those who didnt return to work on March 1 like the consent award mandated would be fired on March 2 and lose their healthcare on March 3.

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Hundreds of COs and supporters remained on strike at Elmira Correctional Facility on March 2 despite the notice.

Martuscellos full statement can be read below:

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Nearly half the team regulating self-driving cars was fired in the layoff of federal workers last month.

One terminated NHTSA employee said the firings would slow down companies trying to deploy robotaxis, including Tesla.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk is leading efforts to slash the federal workforce with DOGE.

Job cuts imposed by Elon Musk's DOGE will slow down the deployment of self-driving vehicles on US roads, a terminated federal worker told Business Insider.

The Office of Automation Safety, which develops regulations for autonomous vehicles, lost three of its seven employees during a Valentine's Day cull of government workers, a person with knowledge of the cuts said.

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The office is part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which regulates vehicle safety and lost about 4% of its workers in the February 14 layoffs.

"There was a massive push in the government over the past year to hire people from the actual autonomous vehicle industry to assist in regulating and understanding it. Since the government fired all recently hired employees, almost all of that private sector knowledge is now gone," the terminated worker said.

They said the cuts had left the office "extremely understaffed" with less specialized knowledge about the autonomous vehicle sector.

BI has viewed the person's termination letter. They did not want to be named for fear of affecting their future employment prospects.

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The Washington Post previously reported on the firings. They were part of a wider push that saw thousands of probationary federal workers lose their jobs. They had typically been in their roles for less than two years.

It comes as DOGE moves forward with its efforts to cut the size of the government, despite legal opposition and concern that Musk's efficiency efforts are targeting agencies that regulate Tesla, SpaceX, and his other companies.

Robotaxi roadblock

Companies building autonomous vehicles face a daunting patchwork of state and federal regulations.

Those wanting to deploy fully driverless vehicles that lack traditional controls such as steering wheels or pedals, such as Tesla's Cybercab or the now-scrapped Cruise Origin vehicle, need to apply for an exemption to federal regulations.

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The exemption process, which is handled by the Office of Automation Safety, can be lengthy. Cruise waited two years for permission to deploy the Origin before ultimately scrapping it.

Musk has called for an overhaul of federal autonomous vehicle regulations, telling investors last October he would "try to help make that happen" through his role at DOGE.

In November, Bloomberg reported that easing rules around self-driving cars was a major priority for the incoming Trump administration.

Tesla is gearing up to deploy fully driverless vehicles for the first time in June with a robotaxi service in Austin.

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Musk's automaker is also facing NHTSA investigations into its Full Self-Driving and Autopilot assisted driving tech, although those investigations are handled by a separate department to the Office of Automation Safety.

The job losses risk ceding the initiative on robotaxis to China, which is also heavily invested in developing autonomous vehicles, the terminated NHTSA employee said.

"When they do stuff like this, where they claim that it's a regulatory goal to further the deployment of autonomous vehicles, but then they fire the team that's responsible for that  that's just going to let China get further ahead," the individual said.

An NHTSA spokesperson said despite the layoffs, the agency's workforce remained "considerably" larger than it was at the start of the Biden administration.

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"We have retained positions critical to the mission of saving lives, preventing injuries, and reducing economic costs due to road traffic crashes. We will continue to enforce the law on all manufacturers of motor vehicles and equipment, in accordance with the Vehicle Safety Act and our data-driven, risk-based investigative process," they told BI.

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at tcarter@businessinsider.com or Signal at tcarter.41. Use a personal email address and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

Read the original article on Business Insider
DOGE budget cuts may soon hit Jacksonvilles urban core, as Action News Jax has learned The Army Corps of Engineers informed employees they will be moving out of the Prudential office building on the Southbank at the end of August.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

The move appears to be connected to the Department of Government Efficiencys nationwide push to downsize federal office space leases.

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An internal email obtained by Action News Jax announced the cancelation of the Army Corps lease at the Prudential building located at 701 San Marco Boulevard.

Currently, we do not have a new cancellation location as GSA has not yet identified another building for us to occupy. Finding a new location is a top priority, and the team is working diligently to meet the 31 August 2025 deadline, wrote Lieutenant Colonel Brandon Bowman in the email.

We confirmed with the Army Corps of Engineers that it was informed the Government Services Administration intended to cancel its lease.

At this time, we have no definitive directive to move through our chain of command and are awaiting additional information from the discussions, said an Army Corps spokesperson in an emailed statement.

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Just one day prior to the February 27th email, the official DOGE X account posted an update on federal lease cancelations of vacant/underutilized buildings.

In it, DOGE claimed roughly 440 leases have been terminated, saving taxpayers roughly $171 million.

Still plenty of available office space for the current workforce, the DOGE post added.

But according to the Army Corps of Engineers, 800 of its employees work at the Prudential building.

After learning about the lease cancellation,, Councilman Joe Carlucci (R-District 5), who represents the Southbank, sent us a statement.

We want to have as many businesses move to District 5 and Southbank and possible. Thats always the goal. And I believe Southbank has a lot to offer for that, said Carlucci. Although I understand, sometimes businesses have to make tough decisions and sometimes when 1 door closes another one opens. I also have full confidence in our folks at the Chamber and JaxUSA to help usher in a new business for this office space.

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The lease termination comes as city leaders are working to keep businesses from leaving downtown, including Citizens Property insurance, which will make a recommendation on whether to move its more than 1,000 employees out of the Everbank building this Friday.

The fear of them leaving is real, said Council Vice President and Chair of the Special Committee on the Future of Downtown Kevin Carrico (R-District 4) during an interview on the pending Citizens decision last Friday.

Carrico told Action News Jax there is a fear a snowball effect could emerge.

Were fearful that if they do leave that would maybe set a trend and others would follow and its a shame because of the good things that are coming downtown soon, said Carrico.

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FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) says it has terminated leases for nearly a dozen federal agencies based in Arkansas.

Led by Elon Musk, DOGE aims to reduce government spending and consolidate the federal workforce.

The DOGE website includes a Wall of Receipts that lists real estate leases, contracts, and grants terminated by the initiative.

Bill aims to prohibit antisemitism in Arkansas public schools

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On Friday, the website listed 10 specific agencies with offices in Arkansas that had their leases terminated as part of DOGE.

Agency Location Amount of Savings Employment Standards Administration  Wage and Hour Division Fayetteville $55,480 Rural Housing Service Batesville $255,225 Natural Resources Conservation Service Batesville $110,250 Farm Service Agency  County Batesville None listed Social Security Administration Batesville $145,050 Agricultural Market Service Little Rock $429,375 Social Security Administration Forrest City $32,321 Social Security Administration Texarkana $36,328 Farm Service Agency  County Paragould $210,172 Natural Resources Conservation Service Conway $255,077

As of Monday, the specific details about those offices and the agencies they fall under have been wiped from the site.

Nearly 750 leases across the country have been terminated as of March 3 with savings of $660 million, DOGE claims.

With the terminations of the 10 leases in Arkansas, DOGE claims it will save $1,529,278.

Northwest Arkansas judge retires, Gov. Sanders appoints replacement

KNWA/FOX24 reached out to the General Services Administration to request an explanation on why these leases were terminated.

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A GSA spokesperson sent the following statement:

Acting Administrator Ehikians vision for GSA includes reducing our deferred maintenance liabilities, supporting the return to office of federal employees, and taking advantage of a stronger private/government partnership in managing the workforce of the future. GSA is reviewing all options to optimize our footprint and building utilization. A component of our space consolidation plan will be the termination of many soft term leases. To the extent these terminations affect public facing facilities and/or existing tenants, we are working with our agency partners to secure suitable alternative space.

DOGE claims that with the combination of asset sales, contract/lease cancellations and renegotiations, fraud and improper payment deletion, grant cancellations, interest savings, programmatic changes, regulatory savings, and workforce reductions, the country is saving $106 billion, with around $652 saved per average taxpayer.

The website notes contract termination notices can have up to a one-month lag.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Jonah Bevin, now living in Utah, said his adoptive father, former Gov. Matt Bevin, recently offered to return him to Ethiopia. (Photo provided)

He calls it, with irony, his great escape.

Three days after his adoptive parents  former Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin and his wife, Glenna  sent him to a youth facility in Jamaica, Jonah Bevin attempted to flee after witnessing staff brutally beat another youth.

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I got beat really, really bad, Jonah said in a telephone interview with the Kentucky Lantern, adding that he was punched, kicked and struck repeatedly with a chair.

Jonah, then 17, said he had run to the nearby beach before staff caught him and returned him to the Atlantis Leadership Academy, located on a Jamaican beachfront and advertised online as the perfect location for healing.

After the beating, I was bleeding from my nose, mouth, he said. They made me clean it up with a mop. They made me clean up my own blood.

He added: I was getting beaten every day.

Escape wouldnt come for several months until a year ago when Jamaican child welfare authorities  citing signs of abuse and neglect  swooped in and removed eight youths, effectively shutting the operation down. One Atlantis resident, 18, was sent home to the United States and the others, all minors including Jonah, remained behind as their cases were resolved.

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Jonah, who was adopted at age five from Ethiopia by the Bevins, was among three adopted teens removed from Atlantis and placed temporarily in custody of Jamaican child welfare officials after no relatives immediately agreed to take them.

Now 18, and living on his own in the United States, Jonah said he decided to speak publicly about his ordeal for the first time in hopes of exposing the abusive conditions he endured. He also wants someone to be held accountable.

I just want, to be honest, accountability to be taken, Jonah said. I want the people who did what they did to be accountable.

He said hes getting by working part-time construction jobs and finding temporary places to live in Utah, where hes staying.

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Im a little broke, he said. I have two pair of shoes, a toothbrush, my high school diploma and my passport. Thats the only things I have.

The Bevins, who are in the midst of a divorce, did not respond to requests for comment for this article through their lawyers.

Jonah said hes had no support from the Bevins, who are wealthy and live in Anchorage, an affluent enclave east of Louisville. Matt Bevins wealth, from a career in finance, was estimated in excess of $13 million when he ran for governor in 2015.

Nor has he had any contact, Jonah said  until recently when Matt Bevin unexpectedly called, offering to send him to Ethiopia.

Then-Gov. Matt Bevin speaks during the National Rifle Association Convention at the Kentucky Exposition Center on May 20, 2016, in Louisville. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Though surprised, Jonah said he was initially excited about the prospect, especially when he was told the Bevins had located his birth mother, who he had been told was dead, as well as other relatives in Ethiopia.

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I dont have anybody, he said.

But he backed out of a trip planned Feb. 22 after growing wary of the lack of details about the visit, the identities of his supposed relatives, when he would return and whether he could trust his adoptive parents he said abandoned him in Jamaica last year.

He was also concerned about the reliability of an intermediary, a man with connections in Ethiopia the Bevins had identified to accompany Jonah on the trip, and Matt Bevins insistence he needed to leave immediately, said Dawn Post, a New York lawyer and child advocate working with Jonah.

Post said she too was concerned about the lack of detail about the trip and the demand he leave immediately or forfeit the opportunity.

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For now, she said, Jonah plans to remain in the United States while she tries to arrange a more suitable placement for him.

Nobody cared about us

Jonah said he and two other boys at Atlantis, also Black and both adopted, were the last to leave Jamaica after their adoptive families took no action to help.

At that point, I didnt think nobody cared about us  especially the Black kids, he said.

Outside advocates worked to facilitate their return to the United States, among them Post, who specializes in what she calls broken adoptions and an industry that has developed, purportedly to help such children.

The issue of adopted kids being abandoned is much bigger than people realize, said Post, who flew to Jamaica last year to provide free legal help to the youths removed from Atlantis.

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Conditions at Atlantis first reported last year in the Sunday Times of London, attracted international headlines after celebrity hotel heiress Paris Hilton flew to Jamaica in April to aid the youths as part of her advocacy work to reform what she calls the troubled teen industry that victimized her.

Jonah said he had no idea of Hiltons celebrity or advocacy but was grateful for her support and the attention generated by her visit.

We had to go to court, he recalled. Thats when Paris Hilton showed up. It was cool. They told us some famous person was coming to help us out.

Dawn Post, a childrens rights lawyer who traveled to Jamaica to represent Jonah and other boys removed from the Atlantis Leadership Academy, recently started a Gofundme account for him. (Photo provided)

Post works with advocates through Hiltons foundation, 11:11 Media Impact, a non-profit founded to advocate on behalf of children in allegedly abusive settings.

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Also travelling to Jamaica last year was Philadelphia lawyer Michael McFarland, who met with Post and some of the youths he now represents in a series of federal lawsuits.

Former residents have filed more than a dozen lawsuits in federal court in Florida, where Atlantis obtained private accreditation as an online school. The pending lawsuits allege extreme abuse, neglect and human trafficking for what the lawsuit says was forced labor.

Youths at Atlantis experienced cruel, inhumane, and despicable abuse, which included but is not limited to: being water boarded, tortured, physically assaulted, punched, slapped, and beaten, were deprived of food and water, were isolated from their family, were subject to torment and psychological torture, and were trafficked by being subjected to forced manual labor and involuntary servitude, according to allegations in one of 13 pending lawsuits.

The lawsuit also alleges youths at Atlantis received none of the promised education or treatment for emotional problems they were supposed to receive.

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Families paid Atlantis $8,000 to $10,000 per month, according to Chelsea Maldonado, with Hiltons foundation, who also traveled to Jamaica to aid the youths removed from Atlantis.

Among defendants in the lawsuits against Atlantis are the facilitys founders, Randall and Lisa Cook, a husband and wife who have not responded to any of the lawsuits.

Randall Cook allegedly fled the jurisdiction of Jamaican law enforcement authorities in April 2024 to escape prosecution, the lawsuit said. It said multiple former staff members are facing criminal charges of abuse and neglect in Jamaica.

The Cooks could not be located for comment and the Atlantis phone number does not work.

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Jonah said he met Randall Cook once, when he got off the plane in Jamaica.

Hello, youre going to do well in the program, Jonah recalled him saying. Jonah said he never saw Cook again.

McFarland said the goal is to try to recover some compensation for what youths suffered at Atlantis.

Were fully prepared to be in it for the long haul to step in and do whatever it takes for these kids to get justice, he said.

Post said Jonah has not joined the litigation but is considering doing so.

Post recently created a Gofundme account to try to raise money for Jonah as he tries to establish a new life in the United States.

My observation when I first met them, that Jonah, that he was the saddest, Post said. He was hopeless. Absolutely helpless and hopeless. I was the most concerned about him.

A seamless transition

After his return to the United States in May 2024, Jonah said he spent time in a residential program where he finished his high school degree. At Atlantis, he said, the promised online education was never provided.

When he turned 18, he said he left the program with no support and no immediate housing.

I had to go to a shelter on my birthday, he said.

Since then, hes been staying with friends or in other temporary settings, he said.

Jonah was among four children adopted from Ethiopia in 2012 by the Bevins who then had five biological children.

Jonah said he was 5 when he came to the household from an orphanage, along with a sibling group of three children he was not related to that the Bevins also adopted. He said he grew up being told his mother in Ethiopia was dead.

In 2015, three years after the adoption, Matt Bevin, a Republican, conservative Christian and business entrepreneur, launched a campaign for governor of Kentucky, which he won, serving one term from late 2015 through 2019 before he was defeated in his bid for a second term by current Gov. Andy Beshear, a Democrat.

As governor, Bevin promoted adoption and called for sweeping improvements to the state child foster and adoption system he said had obstructed the Bevins effort to adopt a child in Kentucky.

Then-Gov. Matt Bevin of Kentucky and his now estranged wife Glenna Bevin talk on KET in 2017 about their experiences with adoption. (Screenshot)

This is the driving reason why I made the decision to run, because it needs to be fixed, Bevin said in a 2017 interview on KET.

Glenna Bevin made prevention of child abuse a primary focus as first lady.

Matt Bevin said in the KET interview the introduction of four Black children who spoke no English into his household went smoothly.

It has been a very, very seamless transition, Bevin said.

But by then, Jonah said he already had begun feeling like he didnt fit into the Bevin household.

It just didnt work, he said. By age 8, I told them I didnt want to be in that house.

Jonah said he was still trying to master English, struggling with a reading disability and clashed with others in the house. He said he didnt get along with Glenna Bevin, left largely in charge of the children by her husband who was away on business or politics.

I was getting in trouble, he said. When I couldnt speak English, if I did something wrong, I couldnt understand.

As a young child, Jonah said he attended a school for students with learning disabilities because of his difficulties with reading and writing.

When Matt Bevin launched his campaign, he sometimes took his nine children to political events which Jonah said he hated, believing the candidate did so to boost himself.

If I was in politics, in general, I would not expose my kids in front of live TV with thousands of people you dont know, he said. It stressed me out. I had a bunch of trauma from orphanages. I wasnt good with large groups of people.

At age 13, Jonah said the Bevins sent him to the first of several out-of-state youth residential facilities.

It was a big shock

Jonah said he knew nothing about the Atlantis facility in Jamaica when he was taken there in handcuffs at age 17 by a transport team hired to relocate him from a residential facility in Utah.

Hilton has said such transport teams are a common factor in youths removed involuntarily from homes for placement in facilities that advertise themselves as experts in working with difficult kids  an ordeal she said she experienced firsthand.

When I was 16 years old, I was ripped from my bed in the middle of the night and transported across state lines to the first of four youth residential treatment facilities, Hilton said last year in testimony before Congress about what she said is a poorly regulated, $23-billion-a-year industry. I was force-fed medications and sexually abused by staff. I was violently restrained and dragged down hallways, stripped naked, and thrown into solitary confinement.

Celebrity and child welfare advocate Paris Hilton arrives to testify at a U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means in support of reauthorizing a federal program responsible for children in foster care. (Photo by Samuel Corum/Getty Images)

Jonah said he was told the new facility in Jamaica would provide education, activities, swimming, pets and fun stuff to do.

Instead, after arriving in December 2023 he found a climate of abuse and deprivation amid ramshackle facilities where youths were isolated with little to no contact with families.

It was a big shock, he said.

Punishment, in addition to violent beatings with fists, sticks or belts, consisted of being forced to sit on a stool for days at a time, staring at a wall. Meals sometimes consisted of meager portions of plain rice and water  or no meals at all.

Jonah, who is 5-foot, 11-inches tall, said he weighed about 135 pounds when he entered Atlantis. By the time he was removed, several months later, he weighed 115.

I was the skinniest, he said, referring to the boys at Atlantis.

He said the boys decided to start keeping handwritten notes to document their ordeal and when they learned one youth who had turned 18 was being released to return to the United States, gave him the notes to try to get attention about conditions at Atlantis.

I said, If you ever get out, youve got to tell them everything, Jonah said,

In a statement he gave to Post, Jonah describes beatings as well as other torments including being buried in sand, being waterboarded, and having saltwater put in his face and eyes.

The staff would bury us alive, putting sand in our mouth & eyes while we were screaming, laughing in our face while we suffered, it said. They would make us fight each other for their own amusement & they would be drinking, smoking weed on shift.

You dont forget the things youve been through. The stuff replays through your head.

 Jonah Bevin

Staff routinely refused to provide medications youths were prescribed, it said.

Other youths related similar treatment or worse, including one who described staff rubbing salt and bleach into his open wounds from a beating, according to the notes provided by Post.

After the teen with the boys notes was back in the United States, he alerted a relative who called the U.S. Embassy, triggering the investigation by Jamaican child welfare authorities, Post said.

Are we getting out?

On Feb. 8, 2024, Jonah and the other youths were sitting in a circle reading books  the only educational activity allowed, he said  when they saw vehicles approaching.

I seen a bunch of government cars come up to the house, Jonah said.

Official-looking individuals with badges around their necks got out and approached the facility. Meanwhile, staff had fled the building and were hiding behind it.

Are we getting out? Jonah said he asked his friend. We all knew from there we were getting out.

The youths were removed to a shelter as officials with Jamaicas Child Protection and Family Services Agency sorted out the case.

But the youths werent free yet.

At several court hearings, lawyers representing Atlantis and some parents tried to argue the facility should be reopened and the boys returned. They argued the youths were lying or exaggerating their treatment, Post said.

Post was present for two of the court hearings.

Jonah said the uncertainty was terrifying.

Court really messed with me, he said.

Trying to figure it out

Ultimately, four of the seven boys returned to the United States with parents or others willing to assume custody. Only Jonah and two others, all adopted and all Black were placed in custody of Jamaican child welfare officials.

All of them were just abandoned and trying to make it on their own, Post said. For vulnerable children, to be abandoned in such a way after experiencing more horrific abuse and neglect is unconscionable.

Eventually, the remaining three youths returned to the United States in various placements, Jonah to residential settings, first in Florida, then Utah.

For now, Jonah said he doesnt think much about the future.

I dont know, he said. Im just trying to figure it out.

He gets support from a group chat with his former fellow residents, but still cant escape thoughts of his time at Atlantis he said left him with psychological and physical scars.

Its all kind of depressing, he said. You dont forget the things youve been through. The stuff replays through your head.

Kentucky Lantern is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Kentucky Lantern maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Jamie Lucke for questions: info@kentuckylantern.com.
NEW YORK (WWTI)  The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) asked residents to do their part to reduce conflicts between humans and coyotes.

DEC says coyotes live in a variety of habitats throughout the state, including rural farming, forests and suburban and urban regions. Coyotes generally avoid human contact. However, during the spring denning and pup-rearing season, coyotes may become more territorial and protective, perhaps leading to conflicts with humans and pets.

DEC officials rescue dog after investigating alleged animal abuse

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DEC warns that if coyotes link food sources such as garbage or pet food with humans, their inherent dread of people may diminish, increasing the likelihood of encounters.

To reduce or prevent conflicts with coyotes, DEC recommends the following steps:

Never feed coyotes;

Do not leave food outside: Always feed pets indoors, Prevent access to garbage, Fence or enclose compost piles and Eliminate availability of bird seed, as concentrations of birds and rodents can attract coyotes;

Do not allow coyotes to approach people or pets: If you see a coyote, be assertive. Stand tall, hold your arms up or out to appear larger. If a coyote lingers, make loud noises, wave your arms, and throw sticks and stones;

Appreciate coyotes from a distance and teach others to do the same;

Do not allow pets to run free : Supervise outdoor pets to keep them safe from coyotes and other wildlife, especially at dusk and night. Small dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable;

Fence yards to deter coyotes: Ensure the fence is tight to the ground, preferably extending six inches below ground level, and taller than four feet;

Remove brush and tall grass around homes: Removing brush eliminates hiding spots for coyotes, as they prefer areas where they can remain unseen; and

Encourage neighbors to follow these guidelines: Encourage others to be good neighbors. Community-wide efforts are necessary to prevent coyote conflicts.

A North Carolina wildlife crossing will save people. Can it save the last wild red wolves too?

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Coyotes become more active and visible in the spring. In most cases, seeing a coyote on occasion is not cause for concern. However, if coyotes exhibit brazen behavior, have little fear of humans, or are frequently sighted during the day near dwellings, DEC says to contact the Regional DEC Wildlife Office for assistance. In an emergency, contact your local police department.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com.
Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Li He)

BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session.

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee, briefed the press on the session. 

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Li He)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Li He)

A journalist asks a question at a press conference of the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

A journalist asks a question at a press conference of the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

Journalists raise hands to ask questions at a press conference of the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Li He)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Cai Yang)

Liu Jieyi, spokesperson for the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, attends a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

Journalists work at a press conference of the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)

Journalists work at a press conference of the third session of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 3, 2025. The CPPCC National Committee, China's top political advisory body, held a press conference on Monday, one day before its annual session. (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai)
What a weird story.

Members of the notorious Sinaloa cartel are petrified, their hands even trembling, as they talk about the law enforcement crackdown on them.

They are especially unnerved when they whisper  anonymously, of course  about Senor Donald Trump and the big stick he carries in the form of the U.S. military.

Trump threatens tariffs on Mexico and possible attacks on its cartels, putting so much pressure on the Mexican government that it turns around and puts the squeeze on the cartels, The New York Times reports.

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You cant be calm, you cant even sleep, because you dont know when theyll catch you, one high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel told The Times.

Whoa. Wait a second. This is the Mexican cartels?

Mexican cartels torture prisoners. They're scared?

These are the guys who hang mutilated bodies like Christmas ornaments from highway overpasses, who torture prisoners with power drills before they burn them alive.

These are the guys who gun down Mexican journalists in their driveways, who assassinated nearly 40 candidates in last summers Mexican elections and who recently beheaded the mayor of a major city.

The same guys who kill with such frequency that Mexico sustains a murder rate of about 30,000 people a year, three times greater than the United States, according to the Washington Post ... those guys?

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Mexicos 28 intentional homicides per 100,000 people, in fact, makes it one of the deadliest countries in the world, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime reports.

And yet heres what The New York Times reported on Sunday:

One cartel leader says hes trying to figure out how to protect his family in case the American military strikes inside Mexico. Another says hes already gone into hiding, rarely leaving his home. Two young men who produce fentanyl for the cartel say they have shut down all their drug labs.

How are global syndicates afraid of Trump?

Understand that the Mexican cartels are no longer local franchises. Theyre international conglomerates. Theyre the biggest criminal syndicates in the world.

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Their reach is so long that an unaffiliated newspaper, The Times of London, published this headline on Feb. 14:

How drug cartels are turning France into the new Mexico.

In 2024 alone, turf wars of rival trafficking gangs killed 110 people in France and injured another 341, the British newspaper reports. The gangs have reeked violence in places like Besancon, birthplace of literary great Victor Hugo and home of the renowned Saint-Pierre restaurant, celebrated for its lobster and scallops with truffles.

Opinion: Every Arizona teen needs 'the talk' about Mexican cartels

French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau says the drug gangs have become so powerful and violent that they are creating the Mexicanization of France, The Times of London reported.

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But back in Mexico, in Culiacan, in the heart of Sinaloa, part of the roughly one-third of the country that the drug cartels control, the narcos are cowering in fear.

At the thought of Donald Trump.

This story is too weird to be true

Yes, theres a line deep in The New York Times' story on how the cartels would not just sit here with our arms crossed if Americans start dropping commandos from choppers into the country, but mostly this is a story about their apprehensions and deep-seated fears.

I trust that the Times is conveying faithfully what the cartels are telling them. This isnt a case of media bias. The Gray Lady swings left. This is one of its rare stories that swings right and makes Donald Trump look good.

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Only it reads like the kind of market-placement quotes youd get from legitimate conglomerates, such as Amazon or Walmart or JP Morgan Chase. Its like Mark Zuckerberg or Jeff Bezos doing the Trump two-step to get in sync with the American vibe shift.

Only, its the Mexican cartels who are spinning like tops.

And the whole thing is too weird to be true.

Phil Boas is an editorial page columnist with The Arizona Republic. Email him at phil.boas@arizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Mexican cartel members claim fear of Trump. Don't believe it | Opinion
DENVER (KDVR)  A driver was killed after being ejected from a vehicle early Sunday morning in a crash on South Santa Fe Drive in Englewood.

Englewood police in a press release said the crash happened at about 4:30 a.m. Sunday in the 2700 block of South Santa Fe Drive. Two vehicles were involved.

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Responding officers found the driver of one of the vehicles on the median of the road after they were ejected from their vehicle, police said. The driver died at the scene.

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Police are investigating what caused the crash.

FOX31 reached out to Englewood police for more information on the other vehicle involved and what else they know about the crash so far. The agency said that it was not aware of any other injuries in the crash.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
A vehicle crashed into a house while multiple people were inside in Indiana County.

The Indiana Fire Association said the crash happened Saturday at 4:30 a.m. on Route 22 in Armstrong Township.

The driver was the only person in the vehicle but they were trapped. Firefighters said the windshield and roof was pushed down on their head and chest. They were able to get the driver out within 13 minutes before flying them to a hospital.

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Two people were inside the house when the vehicle hit it. They were unharmed.

Firefighters said the vehicle was removed and crews cleared up debris.

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The driver whose three passengers died in a head-on crash in December 2022 has now been sentenced.

Devin Perkins, 24, was sentenced to 364 days in the Volusia County jail. He will get credit for time served, meaning he will serve 202 days.

Perkins was convicted in September of three counts of vehicular homicide and reckless driving with serious bodily injury.

Prosecutors say Perkins was behind the wheel of an Infiniti Q50 in the early morning hours of Dec. 11, 2022 when a Toyota Tacoma going the wrong way crashed into him. It happened on State Road 44 near Jesse Michael Drive.

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Three passengers in the Infiniti with Perkins died at the scene. Those victims were identified as Alexandra Dulin, who was a TikTok personality known as Ali Spice, Kyle Moser and Ava Fellerman.

Prosecutors argued that Perkins was driving at about 100 mph when the other driver hit them. That speed was 35 mph over the posted speed limit.

The driver who crashed into them was Thomas Petry, who was sentenced to 37 years in prison in November 2024. He had pleaded guilty to three counts of vehicular homicide, three counts of leaving the scene of a crash with death, leaving the scene of a crash involving serious bodily injury and reckless driving with serious bodily injury.

Investigators say Petry walked away from the crash. He was later found and arrested.

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Perkins and a passenger with Petry were injured in the wreck but recovered.

After Perkins was convicted in September, state attorney R.J. Larizza said, My heart goes out to our victims and their families. A sad case reflecting the sad reality of reckless and irresponsible driving.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Drones attacked the Ufimsky refinery plant in Russia on the night of 2-3 March, which is located over 1,500 kilometres from the border with Ukraine.

Source: Andrii Kovalenko, Head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at Ukraines National Security and Defence Council; Russian Telegram channels

Details: According to information published on Russian Telegram channels, an explosion at the Ufimsky refinery plant was heard at 02:38 (local time).

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The SHOT Telegram channel, which is linked to Russian secret services, reported that the fire at the refinery covered an area of 100 square metres.

        https://t.co/35A1NDwmMR pic.twitter.com/PtxdFCHAdp     (@ukrpravda_news) March 3, 2025

Kovalenko noted that the Ufimsky refinery plant is one of the largest in Russia. The capacity of this oil refining complex, which consists of several businesses, is approximately 20 million tonnes of oil per year.

Quote from Kovalenko: "Ufa is one of the largest oil refining centres in Russia. In terms of overall refining volumes, Bashkortostan is among the top five oil refining centres in the country. The refinery plant has strategic significance for the Russian army, as it is part of a group of businesses that supply fuel to the armed forces."

Updated: The head of Bashkortostan has not yet commented on the situation in the republic.

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Meanwhile, Russian propaganda media outlets, citing the Ministry of Emergency Situations, wrote in the morning that the early reports indicate that the cause of the fire at the refinery in Ufa was allegedly "technological processes".

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Calling it manufactured political drama from state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters, Attorney General Gentner Drummond on Monday rejected a request by Walters for an official opinion on a recent executive order issued by President Donald Trump.

Walters, on Feb. 24, requested the opinion regarding the impact of Trumps executive order on federally funded public school programs in Oklahoma. Walters cites an executive order issued on Feb. 19, which he said directs federal agencies to identify and correct programs that might allow undocumented residents to receive public benefits.

Walters said some Oklahoma public school services, including those funded with federal Title I money, school nutrition programs and English language proficiency programs, receive federal funding and thus could fall under Trumps order.

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In a letter to Walters, Drummond called Trumps order clearly within the purview of the U.S. executive branch, saying it speaks strongly and clearly for itself, and any interpretation that may be necessary is for the federal executive branch to determine. This is consistent with and complementary to established principles of federalism.  Accordingly, the Oklahoma Attorney Generals office does not have appropriate jurisdiction to opine.

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Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond has called a request for an official opinion by state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters "manufactured political drama."

Drummond encouraged Walters to cooperate with these federal agencies to implement Trumps order and spent a paragraph in the letter explaining federalism.

I suggest you devote increased energy and focus on improving the test scores and reading proficiency of Oklahoma students, Drummond wrote to Walters. The people of this state entrusted you with the critical responsibility of administering and managing public education. Fulfilling that responsibility should be your only focus.

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"Were disappointed but not surprised by AG Drummonds response," Walters said. "He has a responsibility to offer opinions on all laws, not just the ones he deems worthy. Once again, he is refusing to support President Trumps executive order on illegal immigration at a time when we all need to move forward with a unified front to protect Oklahoma families."

When Walters first made the request for the opinion, he said, I am fully committed to ensuring that Oklahoma is a strong partner in advancing President Trumps agenda for public education. Taxpayer dollars should be used to support the education of American students, not to subsidize or create a magnet for illegal immigration. We must ensure compliance with the Presidents executive order and take the necessary steps to uphold the rule of law in our schools.

State schools Superintendent Ryan Walters is a strong supporter of President Donald Trump's federal policies.

Political feud escalates as campaigns for Oklahoma governor begin

Drummond already has announced his candidacy for the 2026 gubernatorial election to succeed Gov. Kevin Stitt, and Walters is widely thought to be considering his own run for governor. Stitt, long a supporter of Walters, now is embroiled in a political feud with the superintendent, citing persistently low scores and national rankings for Oklahoma on the annual National Assessment of Educational Progress.

The state lagged well behind the national average, with 23% of fourth-graders and 20% of eighth-graders scoring at a proficient level in reading, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

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Drummond spent much of his letter praising Trumps dutiful and comprehensive efforts to curb illegal immigration into the U.S. and criticizing Stitt, saying Trumps leadership on the issue has been so strong and decisive that it has laid bare Governor Stitts many failures in dealing with this critical issue here in Oklahoma.  For more than six years in office Gov. Stitt took no substantive action to address illegal immigration here in Oklahoma.

The attorney general said Trumps executive order should be a model for Oklahoma and every state to ensure their services are delivered only to those legally eligible to receive them.

Sadly, once again, we are just getting noise from people campaigning for their next political promotion," Stitt said in response to Drummond. Being governor has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I will continue to do everything in my power to protect both Oklahomans and the innocent children in our communities.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters' request for immigration, Trump legal opinion denied
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Dunkin launched its fourth annual scholarship program for students in the D.C. area, offering scholarships to 50 students in the DMV.

High school seniors and college students are able to apply between March 1 and April 15.

A total of 50 students will receive a $2,500 scholarship to a two-or four-year college, university or vocational-technical.

The scholarship, which is in partnership with Scholarship America, would go toward the students school of choice for the Fall 2025 semester.

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Federal workers are heroes: Local unions show support for federal employees amid layoffs

Dunkin said it has awarded $350,000 in scholarships to 140 students in the DMV since 2022.

Applicants must reside and/or be in colleges in one of the following areas:

Washington, D.C.

Arlington County

Clarke County

Fairfax County

Frederick County

Loudoun County

Prince William County

Shenandoah County

Spotsylvania County

Stafford County

Warren County

Anne Arundel County

Balmtimore county

Calvert County

Carroll County

Cecil County

Charles County

Frederick County

Harford County

Howard County

Kent County

Montgomery County

Prince Georges County

Queen Annes County

St. Marys County

Talbot County

Washington County

Berkeley County

Jefferson County

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For more information or to apply, click here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
ANKARA, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye on Monday condemned Israel's recent decision to halt the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, calling it a violation of international law and a threat to ongoing ceasefire efforts.

In a statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry denounced the move as a deliberate act of collective punishment against the Palestinian people and a blatant violation of international law.

Turkiye also warned that such actions could jeopardize diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting ceasefire in Gaza. "This decision undermines the chances of peace and prolongs the suffering of innocent civilians," the ministry stated.

Turkiye urged the international community to take immediate action to ensure the uninterrupted delivery of humanitarian aid. "It is imperative that Israel fulfills its obligations and allows humanitarian assistance to reach those in need," the statement said.

Israel has blocked humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip since early Sunday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the measure was taken to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire deal.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East has warned of severe consequences following the Israeli move.

In a press statement, the agency's media advisor, Adnan Abu Hasna, said that the shutdown would exacerbate "the tragedy and immense suffering" endured by Gaza's more than two million residents over 15 months of war. 
UPDATE: Centre County Coroner Scott Sayers has confirmed that the 56-year-old woman passed away. An autopsy has been done, and a toxicology report is pending.

The below story has been updated to reflect her age as 56, not 57 as reported in the criminal complaints of Stewart and Evans.

CENTRE COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ)  A man and woman were arrested during a traffic stop state police said involved three pounds of methamphetamine and a woman without a pulse.

Edward Eugene Stewart, 64 (Centre County Prison)

Edward Eugene Stewart, 64, of Woodland, and Cameo Ellen Evans, 35, of Clearfield are facing possession of drugs with intent charges after state police stopped them on I-80 Friday evening, Feb. 28.

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According to a criminal complaint, state troopers were traveling on I-80 in Marion Township when they spotted a black Mercedes SUV following someone too close as they approached a work zone. Troopers noted they saw the passenger and recognized her as Evans, saying she had multiple warrants in Clearfield County.

After pulling over the vehicle, troopers identified the driver as Stewart. According to the complaint, he said a 56-year-old woman was sleeping in the backseat. After separating Stewart and Evans, troopers said they both gave different stories as to where they were going and coming from.

Penn State fraternity charged with supplying underage girls with alcohol

Cameo Ellen Evans, 35 (Centre County Prison)

According to Stewart, they were going to Atlantic City and spent a night in Philadelphia then decided to change plans and bring the 56-year-old woman home. Evans, however, said they were heading home after spending a few days in the Poconos, charging documents show.

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Troopers said Stewart declined a search of the vehicle. According to charges, thats when troopers found the 56-year-old near death. When they tried to get the woman out of the SUV, she had her face buried in the seat with a coat over her. Troopers soon discovered she had no pulse.

Troopers provided Narcan and life-saving measures to the woman before EMTs arrived and worked on her for another 10 to 15 minutes before finally getting a pulse. She was rushed to a nearby hospital. Troopers noted as she was being loaded into an ambulance, a stamp bag with fentanyl and a glass smoking device were found on the ground.

After receiving a search warrant, investigators said they found three pounds of methamphetamine in the trunk along with another 14 stamp bags of fentanyl and glass smoking devices in the vehicle, charges show.

In a later interview, Evans allegedly admitted to the stamp bags being hers, however, both denied knowing about the methamphetamine in the trunk area.

Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices.

Evans and Stewart were placed in Centre County Prison. Bail for Evans was set at $100,000 while bail for Stewart was denied, citing possible future charges should the 57-year-old woman die from this incident.

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Both have preliminary hearings scheduled for March 12.

The current condition of the 56-year-old was unknown at the time of publication.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
An earthquake struck the northwest part of Washington state near the U.S.-Canada border early Monday morning, officials said. A tsunami wasn't expected following the earthquake.

The preliminary magnitude 4.5 earthquake struck about 6 miles east of Orcas, Washington, on Orcas Island, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The temblor struck at around 5:02 a.m. PST, according to the agency.

The U.S. National Tsunami Warning Center said a tsunami wasn't expected in the wake of the earthquake.

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The earthquake struck about 70 miles northwest of Seattle, according to the warning center.

Orcas Island is part of the archipelago known as the San Juan Islands, which comprises dozens of islands and reefs in the northern part of Puget Sound.

Cascade Lake in Washington's Moran State Park is seen on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands, June 7, 2021. / Credit: Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images

The island chain is near the border between the U.S. and Canada.

Jennie Joplin, who lives on Orcas Island, told CBS affiliate KIRO-TV the quake was strong enough to wake people up.

"I thought a gigantic tree had fallen on my house, a loud boom and there was a bit of shake," Joplin told the station.

She told KIRO-TV there wasn't any damage to her home.

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In the nearby Canadian province of British Columbia, the earthquake was felt around Victoria and Vancouver, according to officials. No damage was immediately reported.

The temblor was detected just hours after a 3.9 magnitude earthquake struck near North Hollywood, California.

War in Ukraine takes perilous turn after Zelenskyy, Trump Oval Office argument

Trump approval rating at 51%, new CBS News poll shows

The hidden side of Johnny Carson
GENEVA (Reuters) - Rwanda-backed M23 rebels launching an offensive in east Congo abducted at least 130 sick and wounded men from two hospitals in the city of Goma last week, the United Nations said on Monday.

M23 fighters raided CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital during the night of February 28, taking 116 and 15 patients respectively, U.N. Human Rights Office spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani said in a statement.

The abducted men were suspected of being Democratic Republic of Congo soldiers or members of a pro-government militia known as Wazalendo.

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"It is deeply distressing that M23 is snatching patients from hospital beds in coordinated raids and holding them incommunicado in undisclosed locations," Shamdasani said, calling for their immediate release.

M23 spokespersons Willy Ngoma and Lawrence Kanyuka Kingston did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Tutsi-led M23 marched into the city of Goma at the end of January and have since made an unprecedented advance into east Congo, seizing territory and gaining access to valuable minerals.

Their ongoing advance, which started in late December, is already the gravest escalation a long-running conflict rooted in the spillover into Congo of Rwanda's 1994 genocide and the struggle for control of Congo's vast mineral resources.

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Congo, U.N. experts and Western powers accuse Rwanda of backing the group.

Rwanda denies this and says it is defending itself against ethnic Hutu-led militias bent on slaughtering Tutsis in Congo and threatening Rwanda.

About 7,000 people have been killed in east Congo since January and almost half a million people were left without shelter after 90 displacement camps were destroyed in the fighting, according to the government.

International sanctions, renewed investigations by the International Criminal Court and Africa-led peace negotiations have failed to halt the advance by the rebels, who have captured east Congo's two major cities, Goma and Bukavu.

(Reporting by Emma Farge; Additional reporting by Sonia Rolley in Paris; Writing by Sofia Christensen; Editing by Sandra Maler)
Demolition for the Smith Foundry building in Minneapolis began on Wednesday, leaving the residents of the East Phillips neighborhood in shock after claiming to have been given no notice.

The East Phillips Improvement Coalition posted on Facebook on Wednesday, expressing frustrations over the lack of notice, and alleging that residents are potentially being exposed to health risks.

"The City of Minneapolis failed to notify neighborhood organizations or any of its partner organizations about the demolition of the hazardous Smith Foundry building," the organization wrote.

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"The East Phillips Improvement Coalition is demanding that the city provide a clear community protection plan addressing the risks of dust and toxic fumes, as well as how this information will be communicated to residents."

East Phillips Improvement Coalition, Facebook

The building operated as an iron foundry from the 1920s, but had been the subject of air pollution complaints in recent decades. It reached an agreement with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency that it would cease its furnace and casting operations in August 2024, which followed a settlement with the EPA over multiple allegations of air quality violations at the facility.

There have been reports since the demolition started of "a horrible taste and smell in the area."

Dozens of residents have expressed their frustrations on social media and reported it to the city. Ward 9 council member Jason Chavez has since released a statement on the issue, saying that contractors had applied for a wrecking permit in December, which was approved on Feb. 20.

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The demolition contractor allegedly sent a letter on Dec. 10 to "adjacent neighbors," notifying them of the process, but it is not confirmed how many people received this letter. According to Chavez, the building's permits and demolition were never discussed with Minneapolis City Council.

"The permits did not go through the City Council process, and we were not made aware of the process for the demolition, engagement, or specific dates," Chavez said in a statement to Bring Me The News. "The health and safety of Ward 9 residents has always been my top priority, so I understand and share the well-founded concerns raised by residents."

Chavez said in his statement to residents that the work would be done in stages, the first stage being the removal of the building. It will then be tested, and removal of footings and foundation are to be completed. The hole will then be filled, and the site will be graded and seeded.

Air monitoring is still being conducted at the site, which shows average amounts of fine particles, except for a spike on the 23rd. City staff have said that all potential environmental hazards on the site, including asbestos-containing materials and regulated waste items, were removed before the demolition began and that the "wrecking process is utilizing proper dust control."

The demolition should be completed around March 21. Chavez will also host a community meeting on Monday at 5:30 p.m. at the Little Earth Gym to answer more questions and hear residents' concerns.
It is here. Starting Monday and for the next two years, motorists wont be able to take eastbound Interstate 696 through the southernmost part of eastern Oakland County.

It will affect residents in Ferndale, Oak Park, Huntington Woods, Madison Heights, Warren, Pleasant Ridge and beyond.

Its part of a larger multi-year road project called Restore the Reuther, so named for I-696s other moniker, Walter P. Reuther Freeway.

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Heres what to know about the I-696 closure, a map of where the closure takes place and why it's happening.

Where is I-696 closing in Oakland County?

Starting Monday, March 3, the eastbound lanes of I-696 will close between Lahser Road, in the area of the John C. Lodge Freeway, in Southfield and I-75 in Royal Oak.

Eastbound I-696 at I-75 is shown on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018. Beginning Monday, March 3, the eastbound lanes of I-696 will close between Lahser Road, in the area of the John C. Lodge Freeway, in Southfield and I-75 in Royal Oak for two years.

How long will eastbound I-696 be closed between Lahser Road and I-75?

Two years, from March 2025 until 2027.

What time does the 2-year I-696 closure begin in Oakland County?

Starting at 9 a.m. March 3, crews will begin marking pavement, closing ramps and closing lanes to the selected section of eastbound I-696, according to a Feb. 24 news release from the Michigan Department of Transportation.

By afternoon, that portion of the freeway is expected to be fully closed, according to an MDOT news release.

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"Westbound traffic will be maintained while eastbound and westbound I-696 are rebuilt between Lahser Road and I-75," MDOT said in the release. "However, eastbound traffic will be detoured for two years via southbound M-10 (Lodge Freeway), eastbound M-8 (Davison Highway) and northbound I-75 back to eastbound I-696."

Beginning March 3, eastbound traffic on I-696 from Lahser to Dequindre will have a detour as part of the Restore the Reuther project. Westbound traffic won't be affected.

What is the eastbound I-696 detour?

Drivers who would have otherwise taken the closed eastbound portion of I-696 will be detoured down through Highland Park on their way back to eastbound I-696.

Drivers will be directed south on the Lodge Freeway, also known as M-10, to the Davison Freeway, or M-8, and then will be sent north up I-75 until they reconnect with eastbound I-696.

Eastbound drivers not taking the detour can still exit the freeway at Telegraph Road or Lahser, but those who need that eastbound I-696 path all the way through will start their detour at Telegraph Road before Lahser, Diane Cross, MDOT communications representative for the metro Detroit area, previously told the Free Press.

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She noted motorists are legally allowed to take other routes, besides the closed portion of eastbound I-696, and it will take quite some time to learn how traffic shifts. Drivers may take different roads from one day to the next.

People should start checking out their routes ahead of time and give time for the region to get used to the change, she said.

Just give us a few weeks, it will settle down, she said.

More: Gov. Whitmer wants $3B for Michigan roads: Here's where it would come from

Will westbound I-696 close, too? Is there a westbound I-696 detour?

No. Even though westbound I-696 will be reconstructed, too, westbound travelers wont need a detour. Officials plan to simply shift the westbound traffic around parts of the freeway they are working on during the project.

How big of a deal is the eastbound I-696 closure in Oakland County?

The most heavily trafficked portion of the stretch is used by about 200,000 drivers daily, Cross said. The I-696 interchange with I-75 is among the most used in the state.

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[ STAY UP TO DATE: Sign up for our Daily Briefing newsletter today to get the Free Press in your inbox. ]

Why is I-696 closed between Lahser and I-75?

Road work. The road was built in the 1980s and is overdue for major work, the Free Press previously reported.

The state has been working on various phases of the Restore the Reuther project, with other portions of I-696 already seeing a facelift and lane closures.

During this two-year stint, the closed section is expected to be rebuilt. Then in 2027, I-696 between I-75 and Dequindre Road will get some major work.

Bridges and drainage structures will be addressed, with 60 bridges expected to be repaired. That includes the plaza on the Church Street bridge in Oak Park home to playscapes and walking paths.

Prior reporting by Bill Laytner of the Free Press contributed to this story.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: I-696 closure in Michigan begins today: Map, what to know
Fridays meeting between President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy disgraced the Oval Office, and not because of the foreign leader. Trumps shocking berating of Zelenskyy was a huge victory for Vladimir Putin and a defeat for liberty.

Over several contentious minutes, Vance and Trump berated Zelenskyy, telling the Ukrainian leader that the U.S. had nothing to fear from Russia, disparaging him for ostensibly campaigning with the opposition  apparently upset that Zelenskyy had dared to have close ties to the previous administration  and demanding that the wartime president thank them more effusively all the support Kyiv had received from the U.S. government.

How fragile of an ego Trump must have to sit at the Resolute desk and demand that the Ukrainian leader, who has been a beacon of hope and resistance to a beleaguered population under invasion from the worlds most aggressive imperialist, heap praise for the cameras. As Zelenskyy repeatedly pointed out, he has often and loudly thanked the American public and government for their support, including the immense military provisions that have kept the Ukrainian war effort going.

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Actually, Trump and Vance and all Americans should say thank you to Zelenskyy and Ukrainians for holding off Putins invading legions for three years at a huge cost of fallen Ukrainians. American arms and money have supported the heroic defense and should continue until the war ends with Russias full withdrawal.

In the midst of the verbal melee, Trump said it was a very hard thing to do business like this, because in his mind, this is all the same as if he were negotiating a commercial lease in Midtown, where he has to be the tough guy negotiator or the deals off. After Zelenskyy wouldnt genuflect, Trump got toadies Marco Rubio and Mike Waltz to ask the Ukrainian to leave.

Trump and his administration have made it abundantly clear that after years of grueling war and the broader threat to world stability, they are happy to ice out Ukraine and putative European allies and let Putin substantively win, keeping swaths of Ukrainian territory that he is very unlikely to ultimately be satisfied with.

Even the deal that was on the table for this White House visit was hardly about strategic maneuvering around the adversary of Putins Russia and more about outright extortion, with Trump dangling continued assistance while demanding access to Ukraines substantial rare earth minerals.

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Now that deal might be dead, and with it the last dregs of strong U.S.-Ukraine cooperation to face off against an aggressive Russia, with the U.S. president parroting Putin talking points in the Oval Office. Is it because Trump is captured by Putin somehow, is an admirer of the strongmans approach, wants to bring Ukraine and Europe to heel as opposed to seeing them as global partners or simply is too dense and short-sighted to understand any of this?

Ultimately, it doesnt matter. The result is the same, as are the remedies: Europe is going to have to stick it alone, and fast, with powers like Germany, France and the U.K. especially doing more to build up their defense infrastructure and creating pressure for a peace that preserves Ukraines territorial integrity and dissuades Russia. In less than six weeks, Trump has reorganized the post-WWII global order to sap the U.S. of much of its global influence.

___
At least two school districts are heading to referendum this month.

That's Smyrna and Indian River, both hoping voters greenlight boosts to operational funding that would keep up with higher costs and growing student needs. Their answers will come soon.

And in case you missed it: Indian River also aims to extend the school day by 20 minutes for the rest of the year to make up for instructional time lost to bad weather. And in Capital schools, a new leadership team was solidified after former CEO and superintendent Vilicia Cade resigned unexpectedly in June 2024. Interim Superintendent Victoir Cahoon will stay on officially, the school board decided last week.

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In this weekly roundup, we'll catch you up on more education updates you may have missed.

(Did we miss another good education story? Let me know: kepowers@gannett.com.)

Smyrna joins school districts headed to referendum this month

March will host at least two school-tax referendums in Delaware.

Smyrna School District scheduled its $5.4 million ask  looking to bolster operational costs like teacher hiring, school safety, student technology and student activities like sports, marching band and more  for March 15.

This might sound familiar from last spring. The system hopes voters support this operational boost, as only the second-chance capital portion of last June's referendum made it through. The "crucial funding" will ensure the district can "continue to meet the needs of students and families" in enrollment swells, according to the referendum information page online.

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If approved, taxes in New Castle County would increase by 39.33 cents per $100 of assessed property value, based on the current assessed rate. Kent County property owners would pay an additional 9.24 cents per $100 assessed property value.

Down south, Indian River is also looking to the polls.

Signs mark where to park and vote at Smyrna Middle School during the referendum June 6, 2024.

If voters give the green light, this fellow operations referendum delivers a school tax increase of $1.2105 per $100 of assessed property value, according to the district, or roughly a boost of $24.10 per month for the average district taxpayer. About $22.3 million could be generated overall.

Both of these referendums come as property reassessments are being finalized throughout the county. While property owners await understanding their personal impact, tax-funded entities are intended to remain "revenue neutral"  or not bring more money in  because rates adjust with new property values.

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School districts could see increases to tax revenue, per caveats in state law, capped at 10%. That is not your tax rate jumping, but a possible increase in overall tax monies coming into the district alongside the reassessment. Christina schools actually decided to delay an upcoming referendum, with hopes of seeing a boost in total tax receipts.

Delaware school taxes: Indian River heads to referendum next month, seeking $22 million for expenses, teachers

Howard High invites popular podcaster, influencer to school

The Philadelphia-based talent served 20 years in prison for armed robbery.

He typically addresses some 2.7 million Instagram, alongside more through podcasting. But last week, Wallace Peeples, or Wallo, addressed Howard High School of Technology on overcoming adversity and building financial literacy.

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Wallo now co-hosts the popular podcast Million Dollaz Worth of Game on Barstool Sports, advocates for criminal justice reform and serves as a cultural adviser for YouTube, New Castle County Vocational Technical School District said in a press release. In terms of that time in the justice system, he discusses reflecting on life choices and the generational patterns of incarceration.

For Howard students, he was interviewed by a teacher on all of this and more last week.

Wilmington-based nonprofit brings back Black History Challenge

TeenSHARP is bringing back its Black History Challenge for the second time. It looks to give students, parents and educators across Delaware a "self-paced, interactive course to deepen their understanding of Black history," according to a press release last week.

The Wilmington-based nonprofit pulled together a wide range of content to build an "inspiring and informative" course on Black history, which is free to students and guardians alike. That syllabus includes modules highlighting the contributions of Black people in science, technology, health care, arts, government, activism and more.

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"Learn more about Black History, from the Black nurses who helped cure tuberculosis, to the Africans who Greek philosophers learned from, and how government policies have robbed Black wealth and potential," TeenSHARP writes on the course webpage.

Anyone interested can register or learn more online.

A student at Mount Pleasant High School highlights points in a reading assignment in an African American studies course in 2019.

Got a story? Kelly Powers covers race, culture and equity for Delaware Online/The News Journal and USA TODAY Network Northeast, with a focus on education. Contact her at kepowers@gannett.com or (231) 622-2191, and follow her on X @kpowers01.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: 2 Delaware school districts are going to referendum. Are you voting?
(Reuters) - Egypt and the European Commission have signed a 90 million euro ($93.9 million) soft funding agreement to enhance food security, the Egyptian ministry of international cooperation said on Monday.

The funding, provided by the European Investment Bank (EIB), aims to improve Egypt's grain storage and logistics infrastructure.

The initiative is part of the broader Food Resilience Project, which also receives support from the European Union and the World Bank, with additional grants and financing totalling 210 million euros ($219.3 million).

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According to the ministry's statement, the agreement will enable the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC) to improve its capacity to import and store wheat more efficiently.

This is the second time this year that GASC receives financing to import wheat, despite having been replaced as the state grain buyer by the military-affiliated Mostakbal Misr at the end of last year.

On February 4, GASC signed a $700 million loan agreement with the Islamic Trade Finance Corporation to bolster its food security efforts.

Egypt is the world's top wheat importer, as the grain is mainly used to produce subsidised bread for tens of millions of Egyptians.

(1 = $1.04)

(Reporting by Mohamed Ezz, Editing by Louise Heavens)
In a moment of solidarity Tuesday at the Capitol in Pierre, South Dakotas House of Representatives unanimously voted against former Gov. Kristi Noems proposal to eliminate funding for veteran burials in private cemeteries.

Rep. Terri Jorgenson, R-Rapid City, previously endorsed the legislation in the House Appropriations Committee because there are other funding options available for veterans buried in public veterans cemeteries.

The state program provides a $100 stipend to veterans and their families to etch the veterans military information on the back of a privately purchased headstone and another $200 stipend for the cost of the setting, Jorgenson said.

The South Dakota House of Representatives.

More: South Dakota's increase in tourism helps small businesses

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Jorgenson said South Dakota families also have access to two public veteran cemeteries in the state that cover all costs of burial and upkeep. The federal government provides some additional support, depending on the circumstances of the veterans death.

The committee unanimously supported House Bill 1038 earlier this week. Jorgenson was tasked with carrying the bill on the House floor.

I drew the short straw, she said.

What seemed like an acceptable idea at the committee level met staunch resistance in the House, including from Rep. Jeff Bathke, R-Mitchell.

Im embarrassed today that we have to sit on this floor and actually defend $52,000 of over a $7 billion budget to help bury our veterans, Bathke said.

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More: White House broadcasts immigration raids as Noem joins in, but are arrests really up?

Lawmakers are facing numerous potential budget cuts this legislative session, due in part to lower-than-anticipated sales tax revenues and rising Medicaid expenses. HB 1038 was one of many cuts proposed by Noems administration, most of which are still pending. Noem has since departed to become secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Jorgenson, who is a veteran herself, told lawmakers in her closing remarks she was considering voting against the bill because of what she heard during the debate.

Im going to be kicked off of appropriations, Jorgenson joked.

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The chamber ultimately voted unanimously to kill the bill, though two members of the budgeting committee (Reps. Mike Derby, R-Rapid City, and Al Novstrup, R-Aberdeen) initially held true to the committees recommendation with yes votes before changing their votes to no.

South Dakota Searchlight is part of States Newsroom, the nations largest state-focused nonprofit news organization.

This article originally appeared on Watertown Public Opinion: SD legislators vote against bill to repeal of veteran burial program
DAMASCUS, March 3 (Xinhua) -- At least three people were killed and 20 others injured in an explosion of unknown origin on Monday at an entry point to Al-Bukamal, a city in the eastern Syrian province of Deir Al-Zour, state media reported.

According to the state-run SANA news agency, Syrian Civil Defense teams have recovered the victims' bodies, evacuated the wounded to local hospitals, and extinguished a fire ignited by the blast.

It said the explosion occurred near a fuel distribution center, which intensified the blaze.

Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the explosion, and no group has claimed responsibility.

Located near the Syria-Iraq border, the strategic border town of Al-Bukamal has been the target of previous attacks, often attributed to Islamic State remnants operating in the region. 
ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM)  Striking correction officers were still across from the Elmira Correctional Facility on Sunday despite being told the night before that those who didnt return to work that day would be fired.

Nearly 250 officers and supporters stood on Davis Street on the morning of March 2, and around 100 were still there that evening. Strikers are calling for safer conditions and for the state to repeal the HALT Act.

The New York State Office of Employee Relations sent a message to strikers stating that those who didnt return to work on March 1, the day mandated by the consent award, would be fired on March 2.

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Previous: All striking correction officers to be fired Sunday

The striking correction officers and sergeants were also told that they would lose their health insurance on Monday, March 3, two weeks after the strike began on Feb. 17. The health insurance termination will be backdated to when each officer went on strike.

Chemung County Executive Chris Moss, who joined the strike last week, told 18 News that he was very disappointed in New York Governor Kathy Hochuls actions and how the state is placing correction officers in a dangerous position following the implementation of the HALT Act. Moss added that Governor Hochul can do a better job of meeting the correction officers halfway.

Chemung County Legislator Rodney Strange posted a message of support on Facebook on Sunday morning that told COs not to give up and not to return until the HALT Act is repealed. Strange joined the strike on multiple occasions and has posted numerous messages of support.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
Elon Musk will attend Trump's joint address to Congress on Tuesday night.

It's similar to a State of the Union address.

The DOGE leader recently attended Trump's first Cabinet meeting.

Elon Musk is coming back to Capitol Hill on Tuesday night.

The defacto leader of the White House DOGE office will attend President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress, a White House spokesman confirmed to BI on Monday.

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The speech, expected to begin at 9 p.m. Eastern time, is akin to a State of the Union address, where the president delivers a nationally televised speech before senators and members of Congress in the House chamber.

Trump's address is expected to cover his presidential agenda, and the president could make new announcements on tariffs, taxes, AI, and DOGE.

Musk, a special advisor to Trump, recently attended the president's first Cabinet meeting, standing off to the side in a "tech support" T-shirt while providing an update about DOGE's work.

The Tesla and SpaceX CEO last attended a speech in the House chamber in July, when Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a speech to a joint session of Congress.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Geoffrey Hinton, the oft-named godfather of AI, has gotten into a row with Elon Musk on the billionaires own social media platform over his Fellowship at the prestigious Royal Societys scientific institution.

The 365-year-old Royal Society is set to hold a meeting on Monday to debate principles around public pronouncements and behaviours of Fellows, after thousands of academics co-signed an open letter calling for Musk to be removed for breaching its code of conduct.

Stephen Curry, a biologist who penned the letter, said Musk should be banned after attacking Dr Anthony Fauci and labeling MP Jess Phillips a rape genocide apologist, behavior made all the more serious following his placement at the head of DOGE, which Curry argued hurt the scientific community.

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Two members of the Royal Society resigned their Fellowships in protest at Musk.

Hinton, who has been a Fellow at the institution since 1998, is the latest scientist to provide a brutal assessment of Musk on the billionaires own platform X and of his unsuitability for a Fellowship.

I think Elon Musk should be expelled from the British Royal Society. Not because he peddles conspiracy theories and makes Nazi salutes, but because of the huge damage he is doing to scientific institutions in the US. Now let's see if he really believes in free speech.

Hinton was referencing Musks salute to crowds after the inauguration of Donald Trump, which replicated a fascist salute. Musk denied the accusations, accusing critics of a dirty tricks campaign.

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Hintons post on Sunday elicited a furious response from Musk, who is at risk of experiencing the first expulsion from the Royal Society in more than 150 years.

Only craven, insecure fools care about awards and memberships. History is the actual judge, always and forever. Your comments above are carelessly ignorant, cruel and false. That said, what specific actions require correction? I will make mistakes, but endeavor to fix them  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 2, 2025

Only craven, insecure fools care about awards and memberships. History is the actual judge, always and forever, wrote Musk.

Your comments above are carelessly ignorant, cruel and false.

That said, what specific actions require correction? I will make mistakes, but endeavor to fix them fast.

Musk and Hintons history

Musk and new Nobel Prize winner Hintons trading of jabs on X marks a turn for the worse in the pairs complex relationship.

Speaking to the Globe and Mail last year, Hinton admitted he made up an excuse to get off a call with Musk after 20 minutes after the billionaire started rambling. Musk had been in touch with Hinton to ask if he would sit on an advisory board focused on AI safety.

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Hes not going to like that. Because him being the center of attention, thats what he wants. I dont think hes my friend anymore, Hinton said at the time.

However, Musk and Hinton have long been aligned on the need for AI safety, with both sitting on the hawkish side of the argument that the technology could overpower humanity.

In December, Hinton put his differences with Musk aside to publicly back his lawsuit against Musks fellow foe, Altman.

Upon receiving his Nobel Prize in Physics last October, Hinton highlighted his pride for his students at the University of Toronto, calling out one in particular, Ilya Sutskever, after an OpenAI boardroom coup in 2023.

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Theyve gone on to do great things, Hinton said. Im particularly proud of the fact that one of my students fired Sam Altman. And I think I better leave it there.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Elon Musks latest futile foray to get federal workers to spill about their week at work has seriously started to annoy members of Donald Trumps own Cabinet, The Washington Post reported Monday.

Government workers began to receive a wave of emails Friday with the subject What did you do last week? Part II, the sequel to Musks ineffectual accomplishment email from the week before. Once again, the emails appeared to come from an account linked to human resources at the Office of Personnel Management, and prompted workers to respond by the end of the day Monday each week, copying their managers on their responses.

As soon as the emails began to arrive so did instructions from department headsprompting workers to ignore the email.

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At the Department of Energy, one official told staff not to respond to any emails prompting them to list their accomplishments. Employees told the Post that even their Trump-appointed leadership had grown weary of the Department of Government Efficiencys tedious directives, as the agency was already enacting Trumps sweeping agenda to boost fossil fuel production in the face of his so-called national energy emergency.

In addition to Musks emails, agencies have already been dealing with DOGEs recommendations to implement massive layoffs. Earlier this month, the DOE laid off between 1,200 and 2,000 of its roughly 14,000 employees as part of DOGEs government-wide purge of federal workers.

One DOE employee told the Post that the emails represented a power struggle between DOGE and federal agencies. Another suggested that the emails were designed to unnerve federal workers.

It does give off psychological warfare vibes to send these when they know folks would be heading to bed, or cooking dinner, on weekends in particular, the employee said.

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At the State Department, Undersecretary for Management Tibor P. Nagy sent out an email to employees assuring them that management would respond on the behalf of our workforce, according to an email obtained by the Post. At least one ambassador also sent out instructions to ignore Musks demand.

Once again, Musk insisted on social media that responding to his pulse check email was mandatory for the executive branch.

But, in the end, it seems like Musks email just isnt good for efficiency.

One employee at the Environmental Protection Agency estimated that if two million federal employees spent 15 minutes responding to emails, at their average wage of $35 per hour, they would ultimately waste 500,000 hours and cost the government $17.5 million.

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Thats a conservative estimate, the employee told the Post. There are more than two million feds, and most of us spent way more than 15 minutes between trying to figure out what it meant, meetings about whether to respond or not and actually writing the email.

The employee also pointed out that many federal employees already write reports on their weekly accomplishments, and that Musks redundancy-hunting email was ultimately redundant itself.
Senior White House adviser Elon Musk said on Saturday that he believes the United States should leave the United Nations and the North Atlantic Treaty Organizationtwo of the worlds most important intergovernmental bodies.

Responding to a post by a conservative user on X who wrote, Its time to leave NATO and the UN, Musk chimed in: I agree.

The billionaire magnate, whom President Donald Trump has tasked with overseeing a federal cost-cutting blitz, did not further explain his position.

Musks post came as another MAGA stalwart, Sen. Mike Lee, a Republican from Utah, has in recent days repeatedly suggested that the U.S. should quit NATO.

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Musk is the de facto head of the Department of Government Efficiency, which Trump has charged with finding hundreds of billions in federal spending cuts by the middle of next year.

In a major shakeup to domestic agencies, DOGE has instituted purges of staff across the federal bureaucracy.

But Musks group has also been involved in the Trump administrations realignment of U.S. foreign policy, assisting in its effort to shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development, which Musk called a criminal organization.

In its attack on USAID, the Trump administration has pulled funding for some U.N. programs, including a global HIV/AIDS initiative that is vital to several African countries.

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Musk, who recently welcomed his 14th known child, has also been vocal about the war in Ukraine.

Musk has repeatedly lashed out at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom Trump clashed with in a testy Oval Office exchange on Friday in which Trump assailed Zelensky for being ungrateful for the U.S.s wartime support. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said he has encouraged Zelensky to mend fences.

Reuters reported last month that U.S. negotiators threatened to cut off Ukraines access to Musks Starlink satellite Internet provider, which is owned by his aerospace company SpaceX. Musk called the report false and accused the news agency, which cited three sources, of lying.

Last week, the Trump administration sided with Russia on two votes at the U.N.a move the Kremlin praised on Sundayhighlighting a thawing of relations between the two powers.

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While the U.N., founded in the shadow of World War II to guard against future conflicts, has saved millions of lives through health and education programs, critics have argued it has been ineffective in preventing wars and has allowed states with poor human rights records to sit on key bodies.

NATO, a military alliance consisting of 30 European countries along with the U.S. and Canada, was also founded in the wake of World War II as a check on Soviet military power.

In recent years, critics, including Trump, have expressed dismay at the unequal burden-sharing among members, with the U.S. military comprising a disproportionate balance of the alliances capabilities.

As of June 2024, 23 of 32 countries met the alliances defense spending target of 2 percent of gross domestic product, according to NATO estimates.

Martin Paasi, a member of the Finnish parliament, responded directly to Musks post on X, writing, I dont think anyone will trust the US government for the next few decades.
The Virginia House of Delegates during its 2025 legislative session, Jan. 8, 2025. (Photo by Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury)

Heres Exhibit A that sessions at the Virginia General Assembly, dictated under a half-century-old state constitutional update, arent nearly long enough:

Since 2000, special sessions to complete legislative tasks have been held in all but eight years. Sometimes  like in 2018 and 2021  two additional sessions took place. Another extended period of deliberations will likely occur this year to respond to President Donald Trumps planned cuts to the federal workforce and federal spending, which could have an outsized impact on the commonwealth.

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The regularity of special sessions is just one indication the current calendar should be fixed.

Many Virginians dont care about the workload that state legislators endure annually, both during and outside the sessions. But they should. Lawmakers must wade through mountains of bills and their legalese, confirm gubernatorial appointees, sit on study commissions, and travel to and from their home districts.

No one, of course, forced the 140 Honorables in Richmond to run for their seats. They signed up for the prestige  and frequent fatigue. Sessions in even-numbered years are 60 days, and in odd-numbered years theyre 45.

The amount and intensity of tasks that legislators encounter each year, though, are crazy. Thats not good for the lawmakers, the functioning of state government, or Virginians in the long run. The regular session should be extended, perhaps to four months, maybe to six.

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Legislators and then voters would have to amend the constitution to modify the current legislative calendar.

On the one hand, there is still value for members of the General Assembly to be connected to the community in the way they are, to not be full-time politicians, and have encounters with the people they represent, said Andrew Block, a law professor and director of the State and Local Government Policy Clinic at the University of Virginia.

On the other hand, Block told me, weve had the same-sized pipe for decades, and theres more and more information that has to pass through it.

Besides, theyre often doing work year-round, he added. Whether the state should revise the current session is worth a robust conversation and investigation.

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Its amazing a more serious discussion hasnt taken place already. I chalk it up to Virginias general inertia on certain issues, plus hoary cries of tradition regarding the Assemblys status dating to 1619 as the oldest continuous law-making body in the New World.

A.E. Dick Howard, now 91, led the commission that rewrote Virginias constitution that took effect in 1971. The argument for longer sessions is powerful, Howard told me. I understand the concerns people have  that the longer theyre in session, the more laws would be enacted.

Yet, modern times show the issues that legislators face today are more complicated and more technical, Howard said. Longer sessions would allow extra time for lawmakers to think, deliberate and make better use of their staff. Continuity is a virtue, too, when legislators can stay in Richmond and complete their work.

It also might mean less reliance on lobbyists, Howard noted. That would be a plus for residents.

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The Virginian-Pilot, reporting on a scene decades ago, noted a legislator had consulted a Dominion Energy lobbyist during a public hearing. The legislator asked the lobbyist whether a proposal would be OK with you?

How chummy. And not exactly putting Virginians first. Today, lobbyists still hold outsized clout over average citizens at the Assembly.

Legislators often have limits on the number of bills they can introduce: It was 15 in the Senate this year, excluding bills recommended by legislative commissions, a Senate official told me. In odd-numbered years, the limit is 15 in the House, its clerk said, but there arent limits in even-numbered years.

Some other things to consider: The states population today, at 8.8 million, is nearly double the size it was in 1971. Tremendous technological gains, from computers to data centers, are part of the landscape now. The budget has ballooned to nearly $84 billion in Fiscal Year 2024. Thats a huge increase over FY 1998, for example.

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Put simply: Virginia doesnt look anything like it did a half-century ago. Its absurd the General Assembly tries to legislate under the same constrictions.

It would cost more taxpayer money for a session thats longer, but because Virginia pays less to lawmakers than similar, so-called hybrid legislatures, the amount might not be overly expensive.

In a December briefing, the states Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission said Virginias salaries for delegates, at $17,640 annually, is 90% below the median of salaries in comparable legislatures. The Senate salary, at $18,000 a year, is 86% lower than median salaries elsewhere. Virginia is the 12th-largest state in the country.

This is not a part-time position, and with the pay we receive it is really only viable for the rich and retired, one legislator told JLARC.

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I couldnt reach the speaker of the House or the minority leaders in both chambers.

However, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, said hes contemplated what a new calendar could look like. He said he doesnt support a full-time legislature, which a handful of states have.

Im not convinced a longer session is the way to go, not yet, Surovell said. Its something we need to explore.

He admits, however, the current strains. In a lot of ways, the systems we have in place are bulging at the seams, Surovell said.   Its getting harder to get things done efficiently.

Any longtime observer of the Assembly, and the legislators themselves, know that. Changing the current calendar would improve deliberations and their decisions  and conditions for Virginians.

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Estonian President Alar Karis believes that after the dispute between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump, the responsibility to restore their relationship now lies with the entire world.

Source: Karis in an interview with Sky News, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Karis noted that Europe could help mend the relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy.

Quote: "Now we're thinking about what we can do. How to help Zelenskyy and Trump mend this relationship and what Europe can do to become a reliable partner for the US."

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Details: Additionally, Karis refrained from commenting extensively on the one-month ceasefire proposal put forward by French President Emmanuel Macron, stating that the matter is still in its early stages.

Quote: "We follow very, very carefully what's happening at this very moment and all these different plans, and we are ready to take part of these plans. But this is the very early stage at the moment and we don't know what these plans actually are, but we definitely support any kind of discussion which leads to peace in Ukraine."

Background:

On 28 February, Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule after a spat with Trump and JD Vance.

In response, Trump claimed that the Ukrainian president had "disrespected" the United States and that Zelenskyy was "not ready for peace".

Read this analysis by European Pravda editor Sergiy Sydorenko on what this agreement means for Kyiv and Washington

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
By Supantha Mukherjee

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) -The chairman of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Monday called out European Union's content moderation law as incompatible with America's free speech tradition and warned of a risk that it will excessively restrict freedom of expression.

"There is some concern that I have with respect to the approach that Europe is taking with the DSA (EU Digital Services Act) in particular," Brendan Carr, a Republican appointed to the FCC helm by President Donald Trump in January, said at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

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For U.S. tech companies in Europe, Carr said, DSA's approach was "something that is incompatible with both our free speech tradition in America and the commitments that these technology companies have made to a diversity of opinions."

Carr is the second high-ranking U.S. official in recent months to challenge European regulations. In February, Vice President JD Vance denounced content moderation at an AI summit in Paris, calling it "authoritarian censorship."

Trump has made free speech a central theme of his presidency, signing an executive order on his first day in office to "restore freedom of speech and end censorship".

Carr echoed this stance, saying, "From President Trump to me, across the government, we are encouraging our technology companies to stop the censorship we saw the last couple of years."

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The DSA, which became effective a year ago, is meant to make the online environment safer and fairer by compelling tech giants to do more to tackle illegal content including hate speech and child sexual abuse material.

A European Commission spokesperson pushed back against Carr's comments, saying the censorship allegations against the DSA are completely unfounded.

"The aim of our digital legislation, for example the DSA, is the protection of fundamental rights," spokesperson Thomas Regnier said. "We all agree on the need to ensure that the internet is a safe place, as VP Vance put it at the AI Action Summit in Paris."

While Trump has signed a memorandum warning that his administration would scrutinise the DSA, Carr last week sent a mail to U.S. tech companies requesting briefings on how they planned to reconcile the DSA with America's free speech tradition.

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The companies, including Apple, Meta, Alphabet and others, have until Monday to respond.

One possible solution is geofencing  restricting content by region  to create separate geographical platforms for EU compliance and the U.S. administration's free speech requirements.

But Carr said it was unclear whether this approach was technically or economically feasible.

"If there is an urge in Europe to engage in protectionist regulations, to give disparate treatment to U.S. technology companies, the Trump administration has been clear that we are going to speak up and defend the interests of U.S. businesses," he said.

(Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Stockholm; Editing by Bernadette Baum and Aidan Lewis)
The European Commission is considering how it can help Ukraine provide satellite communications amid reports that billionaire Elon Musk may cut off Ukraine's access to the Starlink network.

Source: Politico, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Space-based communication systems are a critical tool for Ukraine, but it remains unclear whether Elon Musk will continue to offer Starlink in times of war.

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Last year, Ukraine said it had about 42,000 Starlink terminals in operation. Poland funded about half of them.

European Commission spokesman Thomas Regnier said Kyiv had already "expressed interest" in how it could use Govsatcom  the federated network of existing EU national government satellite systems  and IRIS, a new constellation not due to be operational until the 2030s.

"The Commission will pursue its contacts with Ukraine in that regard," said Regnier.

Last week, French MEP Christophe Grudler of the Renew group urged the EU executive to urgently "assess all possible alternative satellite solutions that the EU could offer Ukraine" to replace Starlink in a letter to the EU.

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Grudler said that speeding up Govsatcom's deployment this year by skipping the certification process could be a temporary solution while IRIS is developed. Rainier said the system would offer Kyiv "precursor governmental services", without specifying what this would mean in practice or how soon it could be operational.

Other options include using the commercial capacity of Eutelsat, Hispasat or SES satellites already in geostationary orbit, or the OneWeb constellation.

Background:

In late February, Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digitalisation Krzysztof Gawkowski confirmed that Warsaw would continue to support Starlink satellite communications in Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said earlier that the United States had not dropped any hints about Starlink terminals in Ukraine potentially being shut down, but that it was necessary to prepare for this.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
DAMASCUS/JERUSALEM, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Israel launched airstrikes on Monday night targeting a Syrian air defense battalion near the western coastal city of Tartus, Syrian state media and a war monitor reported.

According to Syria's state-run SANA news agency, the strikes hit the outskirts of Tartus, with no immediate reports of casualties. Syrian Civil Defense teams and military specialists were deployed to assess the damage and confirm the exact locations of the strikes.

A local TV channel said the attack hit an air defense battalion in Tartus. Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor, reported a large explosion at Tartus Port, coinciding with the presence of unidentified aircraft, believed to be sent by Israel.

Prior to the attack, text messages were reportedly sent to residents warning them to "stay away from areas housing terrorists."

Avichay Adraee, spokesperson for the Israeli military, confirmed the attack, stating that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had struck a military site in Qardaha, a town near Tartus and the hometown of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

"The IDF targeted a military site used for storing weapons belonging to the deposed Syrian regime," Adraee said, adding that the strikes were in response to "recent developments in the region."

It was the latest Israeli attack in Syria, where, following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government, Israel has deployed ground forces and conducted airstrikes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recently called for the demilitarization of southern Syria, despite Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria's interim president, stating the new government does not want conflicts "with any country, not even with Israel." 
The European Commission is assessing ways to help Ukraine secure satellite communications in case access to the Starlink network is restricted, Politico reported on March 3.

Starlink has played a vital role in Ukraine's battlefield communications, with around 42,000 terminals providing service to the military, medical facilities, businesses, and aid organizations.

The review comes amid reports that the U.S. threatened to cut Ukraine's access to Starlink if Kyiv did not reach a deal with Washington over critical mineral resources.

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On Feb. 22, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk denied that the U.S. had made such a threat.

Ukraine had shown interest in alternative satellite options, including Govsatcom, a shared network of EU national government satellites, and IRIS, a new constellation expected to be operational in the 2030s, according to European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier.

Member of the European Parliament Christophe Grudler urged the EU to "assess all possible alternative satellite solutions that the EU could offer Ukraine" as a Starlink replacement.

Le chantage americain pour la fourniture du service internet par satellite Starlink est inacceptable.



Je demande a @EU_Commission d'etudier toutes les solutions alternatives par satellite que lUE pourrait proposer a lUkraine.



Y compris GovSatCom ou des capacites commerciales. pic.twitter.com/H2zblWNpKA  Christophe GRUDLER (@GrudlerCh) February 24, 2025

He suggested that Govsatcom deployment could be expedited this year by skipping the certification process and providing a temporary solution while IRIS is being developed.

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SpaceX began supplying Starlink terminals to Ukraine shortly after Russia's full-scale invasion, giving Kyiv a critical advantage in battlefield connectivity.

Musk, whom U.S. President Donald Trump has tasked with eliminating "fraud" and "waste" in the U.S. budget, has become increasingly vocal in criticizing Ukraine and amplifying Russian disinformation.

He has also called for shutting down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which provided vital humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

Read also: Russia plans to launch 500 kamikaze drones per day at Ukraine, HUR says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
European leaders held emergency talks to discuss support for Ukraine on Sunday.

It came amid souring relations between the US and Ukraine, raising pressure on Europe to step up.

One quick way to raise "game-changing" cash would be to seize $218 billion in frozen Russian assets.

Amid growing tensions between Washington and Kyiv, calls are growing for Europe to take an unprecedented step that could unlock billions in funding for Ukraine.

Some world leaders and politicians, including former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, are urging European countries to seize the roughly $218 billion in frozen Russian central bank assets  now largely held in Brussels  and hand them to Ukraine.

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"It is only fair that Russia should pay for the damage its war has caused," Sunak wrote in an opinion piece for The Economist on Friday.

But such a move comes with risks.

US President Donald Trump having a tense exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Brian Snyder/REUTERS

The question of funding was a hot topic on Sunday as EU and UK leaders met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for emergency talks in London to discuss support for Kyiv  just days after the latter's unprecedented Oval Office clash with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Trump and Vance berated the Ukrainian leader on Friday in front of reporters and cameras. Zelenskyy ultimately left the White House without finalizing a minerals deal that would give the United States access to Kyiv's mineral wealth in exchange for investment and what Zelenskyy hoped would be security guarantees.

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The situation has fueled questions over how Europe can step up to help aid Ukraine's defense efforts should the United States reduce, or cut altogether, its support for the war-torn nation.

For Europe to make up the difference would be an expensive prospect and one that could come with political repercussions  which makes the potential to unlock $218 billion in non-taxpayer money all the more attractive.

"We've got all of these different countries with their own internal political battles, and their own internal budgets, all trying to find more cash  and we're sitting on a game-changing amount of funding," Heather Buchanan, the chair of the Athena Foundation, an economic policy advisory nonprofit that supports the move, told Business Insider.

Europe's ace card

The EU holds the majority of the roughly $300 billion in Russian funds frozen by the United States and international allies after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. The funds have been earmarked for rebuilding Ukraine in peacetime.

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Some of the interest earned on those funds has been transferred to Ukraine as loans. The UK's chancellor of the exchequer, Rachel Reeves, and Ukraine's finance minister, Sergii Marchenko, signed a deal on Saturday to deliver another 2.26 billion, or about $2.8 billion, to Ukraine from the accrued interest, also as a loan.

The UK's foreign secretary, David Lammy, has backed calls to seize the funds. Wiktor Szymanowicz/Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing via Getty Images

But there's now growing support for a long-considered option: seizing those frozen funds, which would allow them to be transferred directly to Ukraine for use in its defense.

In December, Kaja Kallas, the EU's top diplomat, called for the move  and it's seen support in the past week from leaders in the UK, Estonia, Poland, and Finland.

On Saturday, a coalition of campaign groups and UK MPs brought together by the Athena Foundation called on the UK to get the ball rolling with the seizure of 25 billion, or about $31.4 billion, of Russian state assets now frozen in the UK financial system.

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Adrian Karatnycky, a nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center, wrote in Foreign Policy magazine in January that the full $300 billion in frozen assets could replace the US contribution to Ukraine for the next six or seven years if Trump were to cut support to Kyiv.

A nervous gambit

"The key blocker is that nobody wants to move alone," Buchanan said.

But the White House's recent moves have provided a "perfect storm" that is focusing minds, she added.

While many politicians are pushing for the move, some analysts warn that it should be a last resort because of the impact it could have on global economies.

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For example, permanently confiscating Russian assets held in countries that aren't at war with Russia could also "increase the risk perceived by several other countries," Creon Butler, the director of Chatham House's global economy and finance program, wrote last year.

Other countries  such as China, India, and Saudi Arabia  may "fear that at some point they could be subject to similar measures," he wrote.

Sunak, writing for The Economist, has argued that those concerns are "overstated" and that this risk "can be contained."

There's also a debate among analysts over whether the assets should be kept available as a bargaining chip for any future peace talks.

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Legal complications must also be considered, as the assets of a foreign nation are normally protected against seizure by a host country.

But the leading lawyer Paul Reichler previously argued to Congress that such protection falls apart when a host state carries out "egregiously wrongful conduct," as he said Russia had.

"If Congress has the power to authorize the executive to freeze a foreign state's assets, it must also have the power to authorize the executive to transfer them," he said.

Buchanan told BI that such a move does require legislation but that "that's what lawmakers are for," adding that meeting a satisfactory legal standard could be brought about "quite quickly."

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A further worry is the prospect of retaliation by the Kremlin, whose State Duma is discussing a draft bill allowing it to confiscate foreign property in response to similar moves from "unfriendly countries," Reuters reported.

Striking a psychological blow

Buchanan said passing the cash to Ukraine would send a "crystal clear" signal to Russia that this money isn't coming back  potentially dealing a strong psychological blow to a country whose economy and labor market are already deeply strained by the war.

The question is whether Western leaders will take the leap.

"It's just political will at this point," she added.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Italy has rejected Emmanuel Macrons proposal for a one-month ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine as the first step to end the war.

Its foreign minister warned European governments to tread very carefully in discussions over deploying troops to the war-torn nation to police any future peace settlement.

Britain and Ukraine also poured cold water over the French presidents plan, which he raised at a summit of international leaders hosted by Sir Keir Starmer in London on Sunday.

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The divides will trouble European leaders who are scrambling to devise a common plan to counter Donald Trumps strategy to resolve the conflict.

I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and the United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and, especially, a long-lasting peace, Antonio Tajani, Italys foreign minister, said of Mr Macrons proposal.

Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it.

During the talks at Lancaster House on Sunday, Mr Macron raised the idea of a one-month ceasefire in the air and sea to pave the way for more substantial peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.

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The strategy, he told Le Figaro, the French newspaper, would test whether Vladimir Putin was serious about ending his three-year war.

However, there was little appetite to discuss the strategy amongst the 18 other Western leaders involved in the talks.

The Macron ceasefire was very much a Macron plan, an official who was briefed on the discussions told The Telegraph.

The French president is well known for floating ideas for which he has often failed to secure backing.

Emmanuel Macrons ceasefire plan received little traction among his fellow European leaders - Toby Melville - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, rejected plans for an immediate ceasefire, warning it would be a failure for everyone if a pause is negotiated without accompanying security guarantees.

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Luke Pollard, the UKs Armed Forces minister, also warned that Russia would capitalise on any ceasefire to regroup.

The very real worry that the Ukrainians have is that any short pause in the war simply allows the Russians time to re-arm, regroup and reinvade, he told Sky News.

In a separate interview with Times Radio, the minister insisted no agreement has been made on what a truce looks like.

But he added: But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine.

Mr Pollard also rebuked Lord Mandelson, the UKs ambassador to Washington, for comments he made urging Mr Zelensky to be more supportive of the US presidents efforts to end the war and for the Ukrainian leader to call a unilateral ceasefire.

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The envoys remarks were not government policy, according to the Armed Forces minister.

Credit: ABC's This Week by George Stephanopoulos

However, Lord Mandelsons call for a very radical reset to Mr Zelenskys relations with Mr Trump were echoed by European leaders gathered at Lancaster House.

They warned the Ukrainian president that he could not pursue a peace deal without his US counterparts backing.

But Mr Zelensky told reporters as he left London Stansted Airport on Sunday night that he saw no need to salvage his relationship with Mr Trump after their dramatic row in the Oval Office.

In the wake of the row, US officials were reviewing their military support for Kyiv, which could be drawn to an end as a result of the diplomatic dust-up.

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Any decision could also include the taps being turned off on a weapons pipeline set up by Joe Biden, the former president, before his departure from the White House.

On Monday, Friedrich Merz, the German chancellor-in-waiting, accused Mr Trump of deliberately orchestrating the row to shock Europe into action.

It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but obviously a manufactured escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office, the German told a news conference in Hamburg.

Europe must now show that we are in a position to act independently, he added.

The Trump administration was waiting for Mr Zelensky to express regret for the row, Mike Waltz, the US national security adviser, told Fox News on Monday.

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What we need to hear from President Zelensky is that he regrets what happened, that hes ready to sign this minerals deal, and that hes ready to engage in peace talks, he said.

His warning came as Mr Trump said he would not put up with it for much longer in response to Mr Zelensky saying that a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia was still very, very far away.

However, there are understood to be opposing camps inside the White House over how to handle the Ukrainian president moving forward.

A hardline group, which is upset that Mr Zelensky didnt wear a suit and tie for his White House appearance, is pushing for him to be excluded from future talks. A second group is urging Mr Trump to take a more conciliatory approach.

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The US president is said to be in the middle of the two groups, Bloomberg reported.

The White House has a two-track approach to the peace talks, with Gen Keith Kellogg, the presidents peace envoy, handling discussions with Ukraine, while his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is leading engagements with Russia.

At their talks in London, European leaders agreed that boosting their defence spending was the best tactic to keep Mr Trump engaged in supporting Ukraine.

Ramping up military expenditure was the key to peace through strength for Ukraine, as well as to provide a credible proposition to the US, in order to keep them onside, an official briefed on the talks said.

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An EU official added: There was general agreement on the need for European countries to increase defence spending and military capabilities. This was considered by many to be an important contribution to strengthening the transatlantic relation.

The source said there was wide support for Mr Trumps mantra of peace through strength, which European leaders agreed should start with increased military support to Ukraine as the main component of post-war security guarantees.

The first layer of those security guarantees will be Ukraines armed forces, who therefore must continue to be supported, the official said.

European contributions to additional security guarantees must be developed hand in hand with the US, the official added.

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In todays digital world, losing an internet connection is often a mere inconvenience for individuals - but for nations, it can be a serious security risk.

This became evident during Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine when mobile networks and internet access came under threat.

In response, tech billionaire Elon Musk stepped in, providing high-speed connectivity to Ukrainian authorities through his Starlink satellite system.

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The European Union has long trailed behind space powerhouses like Musks company SpaceX and the US space agency NASA, but its now taking steps to close the gap.

In order to catch up, the European Commission has signed a contract for the Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (Iris2), a satellite network designed to strengthen Europes technological sovereignty.

"In times of crisis, we cannot afford to be too dependent on countries or companies from outside the European Union," EU Commissioner Andrius Kubilius recently said.

Foreign policy chief warns of war in space

Unlike Starlink, Iris2 is therefore to be controlled by EU states.

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"Whoever uses Starlink is ultimately dependent on one person," explains Antje Notzold, researcher and lecturer in international politics at University of Technology Chemnitz.

"We saw this in Ukraine when Musk did not activate his network for certain areas," Notzold says.

The space programme will explicitly contribute to the defence needs of EU countries, Kubilius, who is the EU's defence and space commissioner, says. He emphasizes that "IRIS2 will be vital for our security and defence."

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has even warned that conflicts are already being waged in space, citing cyberattacks and satellite disruptions as emerging threats.

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The first Iris2 launch is set for 2030, with the goal of providing fast internet to both government and civilian users.

However, it remains unclear to what extent private individuals will benefit - especially in the early stages.

Security take centre stage

Will Europe have a more secure internet in five years?

"Technically, that would be possible, but the exact specifications are still largely undefined," says Matthias Wachter from the Federation of German Industry (BDI).

The space project aims to ensure that Europe has an independent infrastructure in the event of an emergency. However, civilian benefits may take a back seat in the event of a conflict, notes security expert Antje Notzold.

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"If there are already established alternatives, Iris2 must first assert itself against other commercial providers and win customers," she notes.

According to the European Space Agency (ESA), Iris2 will offer critical security features that commercial providers like Starlink do not.

These safeguards are designed to protect against cyberattacks and physical threats - both on the ground and in orbit.

"Conceptually, this is a major difference to Starlink," explains Wachter.

With a price tag of nearly 11 billion ($11.5 billion), Iris2 represents a major investment in Europes space industry. The EU is covering the bulk of the cost - about 6 billion - with additional funding from the ESA and private investors.

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Beyond security, the project is also seen as a way to boost Europes space economy. Companies worldwide are racing to establish a foothold in orbit, from Musks Mars ambitions to the rise of space tourism and the booming satellite communications market.

While private players dominate the sector, European leaders are determined to ensure the continent gets its share of the future space economy.

Is there still room in space?

However, the expansion of satellite networks brings new challenges. Space is getting crowded. ESA estimates that over 13,000 satellites currently orbit the Earth - more than 7,000 of them belonging to Starlink alone.

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Experts warn that as more satellites are launched, the risk of collisions will increase, potentially triggering catastrophic chain reactions.

ESA Director General Josef Aschbacher has called for global space traffic regulations to prevent such disasters. Whether international agreements will keep pace with the rapidly evolving space industry remains an open question.

For now, the EU is betting big on Iris2 - both to secure its digital future and to stake its claim in the new space race.
Apathy rules supreme in workplace pensions. Almost 30 million people work in the UKs private sector and for many, a pension contribution is just another line on the monthly payslip.

Its precisely this mindset that government ministers were counting on when they introduced auto-enrolment in 2012, forcing employers into offering workplace pensions but leaving employees with the final decision.

The hunch proved to be well-founded. Although workers can opt out at any time, very few have. Within a decade, the proportion with a workplace pension rocketed from 42pc to 88pc and auto-enrolment became admired around the world.

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Yet in one Eastern European nation, plans are afoot for a change that critics say puts a million retirements at risk.

Just six years after introducing it, Lithuania is ditching auto-enrolment.

Radical reforms

Lithuania is governed by a coalition, led by the centre-Left Social Democrats, following last Octobers elections.

After inheriting a pension setup from the former Soviet Union, the Baltic state has made several changes since 1995 and now operates a three-pillar system.

Theres a state pension, where workers need 15 years of contributions to qualify and 30 years for the maximum pension, along with a voluntary private scheme that began in 2004.

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However, it is changes to the countrys second pillar that are making waves.

Employees currently contribute 3pc of their salary and receive 1.5pc of the national average wage as a top-up from the state. Auto-enrolment occurs every three years and if they do join, there is no real way to opt out until retirement.

Under the new proposals, the system will become entirely voluntary. The 1.5pc top-up will also end, with tax relief replacing it. Employers dont currently have to pay in, but they will be encouraged to do so  and receive their own corporate tax relief in return.

Savers will also be able to move their contributions up or down and take lengthy payment holidays of over a year.

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A Lithuanian government spokesman said: Among other goals, the amendments aim to increase the flexibility of the system and add incentives for voluntary participation.

The personal income tax relief, which will replace [the 1.5pc] subsidies, will encourage residents to save, reduce their tax burden, and increase incentives to work and earn.

For those with lower incomes, the ability to adjust the amount of the contribution or stop it would provide security and increase the attractiveness of savings.

Increased old age poverty

Critics, however, are speaking out. PensionsEurope, which represents 25 member associations across the Continent, said the plans would severely undermine Lithuanias retirement system and called for an urgent change of course.

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Pointing to the success of auto-enrolment in the country, it warned that a voluntary model would mean fewer people saved into a pension, leaving them with lower retirement savings and an increased risk of old-age poverty.

Matti Leppala, secretary general of PensionsEurope, said: Auto-enrolment in the UK has been a real success, with nearly 11 million people brought into the system over the past decade. Lithuania followed this model, and for the past two years, it has delivered great results with a high coverage rate.

Reversing it now would be a huge step backward and only exacerbate the countrys retirement challenges, which are already marked by a high rate of old-age poverty and low pension earnings.

The Lithuanian government, however, is pressing ahead and consultations are already under way.

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There are no such plans in the UK. Current rules mean companies must provide a workplace pension, and contribute a minimum of 3pc of salary, for workers between the age of 22 and state pension age who earn at least 10,000 a year. Workers are placed into a scheme automatically unless they opt out in writing.

Legislation has also been passed to enable lowering the minimum age to 18 and completely remove the 10,000 limit.

Sir Steve Webb, the former pensions minister, said auto-enrolment had transformed the UKs pensions landscape and any attempt to scrap it would be catastrophic.

He said: Prior to its introduction, the proportion of private sector workers saving into a pension had fallen to around one in three. There was a growing risk of millions of workers being heavily dependent on the state pension and potentially having to work longer or retire poorer than they would have wished.

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Around 10 million more people are now saving into a pension and there have been particular increases among younger workers and the lower paid, who were less likely to have pensions before.

If anything, we need to go further and faster with automatic enrolment in the UK, rather than potentially undermine it.

One criticism across the pensions industry, however, is that the level of contributions required under auto-enrolment is too low.

One in five pensioners already live in poverty. Over a million survive on the state pension and state benefits alone. If there are two things that experts agree on, its that Britains population is ageing and we are not saving enough for retirement.

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The second half of Labours pensions review was expected to address these issues, but the manifesto pledge has now been indefinitely delayed.

Apathy, it seems, is not just for pension savers.

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WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The fallout continues after President Donald Trumps Oval Office blowup with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The Ukrainian president was quickly ushered out of the White House on Friday.

President Trump called him disrespectful.

President Zelenskyy spent the weekend in Europe.

The U.K.s Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted European leaders to show support for Ukraine.

Starmer says he spoke with President Trump after the Oval Office dust-up between President Trump and President Zelenskyy.

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Democrats and Republicans were divided on whos to blame.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Mike Waltz blamed Zelenskyy.

He found every opportunity to Ukraine-splain on every issue. Then he confronts the Vice President, said Rubio.

Democrats blamed President Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Either it was an ambushed setup, or they just got so hot-headed, said Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).

Senator James Lankford (R-Okla.) responded to calls from some in his own party for Zelenskyy to step down.

Quite frankly I think that would spiral Ukraine into chaos right now, said Lankford.

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President Trump and President Zelenskyy were supposed to sign a minerals agreement, a chance for Ukraine to pay back the U.S. for support in the war and President Trump says it wouldve moved Ukraine and Russia closer to peace.

President Zelenskyy says hes still willing to sign the deal.

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Representatives of Germany, France, Britain, Italy and Poland reaffirmed their political and military aid for Ukraine on Monday.

The NATO members convened via video in the Group of Five defence cooperation format.

"All agree that [Ukraine] can rely on the continued and broad support of the Group of Five," the German Defence Ministry said in a statement after the meeting.

The meeting was called at short notice following a heated exchange between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House last week.

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The row sparked fears that Washington could pull its critical support for Kiev as ties with Russia warm.

The next meeting of the Group of Five is scheduled for March 12 in Paris. The overall aim of the group is to strengthen European security and defence readiness.
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) plans to cut $500 million from Mass Save over the next three years.

This comes after higher energy bills during a colder than average winter. Eversource was unavailable for an interview, but they did issue a statement.

The Mass Save program is a monthly surcharge on electric and gas bills that many ratepayers pay. The delivery fee on your heating bill pays for most of the program. Its estimated that $80 from your average heating bill goes to Mass Save. The funds go towards rebates and incentives for those looking to increase the energy efficiency of their homes. The new proposal from Mass Save is estimated to cost $5 billion, and will offer incentives to help make Massachusetts more energy efficient.

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Mass Save plan may raise heating bills

Eversource released the following response on revising its energy efficiency and decarbonization plan through 2027.

We commend the Department of Public Utilities for listening to customer concerns about affordability and taking the difficult action today to order a reduction in the proposed 2025-2027 Energy Efficiency and Decarbonization Plan. This is the most immediate step the state can take to provide long-term rate relief to customers and ensure that the pace of the energy transition in Massachusetts is affordable and attainable. To be clear, we are steadfastly committed to the Mass Save programs, which are essential to meeting the commonwealths decarbonization goals and provide significant benefits to customers and the state as a whole, but this winters higher-than-normal natural gas bills make a revision to this plan imperative at this time. This is how the collaborative process is intended to work  a wide variety of diverse stakeholders come together to develop a plan aimed at achieving Massachusetts ambitious clean energy targets, and that plan then receives a thorough regulatory review to ensure all aspects of the program respond to customer needs and strike a balance between meeting statewide climate goals, establishing program affordability, providing robust access for customers, and enhancing reliability. We appreciate the invaluable collaboration of the wide variety of diverse stakeholders on the Energy Efficiency Advisory Council who unanimously supported the proposed plan, as well as the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, the Attorney Generals Office, and countless other community, business, and labor stakeholders who provided their input through this process  and we look forward to our continued work together to deliver the nation-leading energy efficiency programs that reflect our broad support of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and advance electrification while also driving down energy usage for customers. At the same time, this winters bills have posed serious challenges and concerns for our customers that reinforce the critical need to maintain affordability and reliability as top priorities in our collective pursuit of the commonwealths energy transition. We will be closely reviewing this order with those priorities top-of-mind as we work collaboratively to develop a revised plan that best serves all customers and communities. Massachusetts has been #1 in the nation for energy efficiency under previous plans that had lower budgets for these programs, and were confident that we can keep the commonwealth at the national forefront of energy efficiency and decarbonization with a revised plan. Moving forward, were as committed as ever to the collaboration and hard work that will be required to provide impactful, long-term rate relief to customers while also advancing a clean energy future that addresses climate change. Energy efficiency is just one of many important pieces on that broader path to decarbonization, and collective buy-in is essential for the various solutions that will be needed to achieve our shared goals, including addressing the regions energy supply challenges. Penni Conner, Executive Vice President of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy

On the other side of the coin, a $500 million budget cut could mean Mass Save will provide less benefits to Western Massachusetts. Hessan Farooqi with Boston Climate Action Network highlighted how Mass Save helps the environment while also cutting down energy bills.

When we reduce our reliance on really expensive fuel options, when we can reduce how much heat were losing to the outdoors, that means we spend less energy, less money on our bills, thats what all of us want here, said Farooqi.

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While lower delivery rates are already in place for March and April of this year, these savings are only temporary. An attorney with the Conservation Law Foundation told 22News who will be impacted by these budget cuts.

Fortunately, the DPU cuts shouldnt affect the mass saves low income program, but these cuts will still result in a loss of almost $1.5 billion in benefits and savings to the Commonwealth, said Jocelyn Lee.

To help manage your Eversource bills with financial assistance, flexible payment plans, and energy efficiency programs, visit Eversource.com or Mass.gov for free state resources.

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WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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MINSK, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has appointed the economic team of the government, press service of the Belarusian leader said on Monday.

Lukashenko appointed Nikolai Snopkov as First Deputy Prime Minister who will personally supervise the economic team.

The economic team will include Economy Minister Yuri Chebotar, Minister of Antimonopoly Development and Trade Artur Karpovich, Finance Minister Yuri Seliverstov, Taxes and Duties Minister Dmitry Kiyko, Minister of Communications and Informatisation Kirill Zalessky, and Chairman of the State Property Committee Dmitry Matusevich, the press service said.

Lukashenko called the current team as "new old one". Many of them worked in the government before the presidential election so voters understood in advance with whom the president would work, he added.

The Belarusian leader outlined the economic growth in the country, including through investments, as the main task for the economic team.

The President paid special attention to the implementation of significant investment projects, including the Great Stone industrial park, the Belarusian National Biotechnology Corporation, and the BelGee car manufacturer. He also expressed hope that new projects will emerge.

Lukashenko also appointed Vladimir Karanik, who previously held the position of the head of Grodno region, as Deputy Prime Minister of Belarus, who will oversee the social sphere. 
There is evidence that the driver of a car who fatally rammed into a crowd in the south-western German city of Mannheim on Monday is afflicted by a psychological disorder, the senior public prosecutor in Mannheim said.

The man, who is in hospital with injuries, is being investigated for murder and an attempted murder, said Romeo Schussler.

Two people were killed and others were injured when the driver, a 40-year-old German, ploughed the car into the crowd on Monday afternoon.

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Law enforcement authorities said they do not believe the man had a political motive. Even so, Mannheim police president Ulrike Schafer said the driver targeted his victims and described the car-ramming as a targeted attack.

The man shot himself in the mouth with a blank firing pistol before police had taken him fully into custody, the president of the State Criminal Police Office, Andreas Stenger, said.

His condition in hospital was described as stable.

Authorities said the man had a criminal record, including an assault for which he served a short prison sentence over 10 years ago.
Paris  There was shock in the courtroom in western France on Friday as former doctor Joel Le Scouarnec admitted without any solicitation that he had sexually abused his own granddaughter. Le Scouarnec, 74, had been on trial for about a week by Friday, accused of raping or sexually assaulting 299 children, but his granddaughter is not among the alleged victims in the case  all of whom were his patients at the time.

The former surgeon stood up and addressed the court just after his eldest son, whose name has not been used in the trial, gave evidence.

"This is possibly, almost certainly, the last time I will see my son, because I heard his anger and his distress," Le Scouarnec told the court in the town of Vannes, Brittany. "I respect that anger, it is well-founded. Yes, I admit to having abused my granddaughter, his daughter."

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He then turned to his son and said, "forgive me."

This court sketch made on Feb. 25, 2025 shows retired surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec listening during a hearing on the second day of his trial on charges of assaulting or raping 299 patients at the Criminal Court in Vannes, western France. / Credit: BENOIT PEYRUCQ/AFP/Getty

The trial was adjourned immediately after he made the statement. Later Friday evening, regional prosecutors confirmed that new charges would be brought against Le Scouarnec in relation to his courtroom confession.

It was the latest in a series of emotional moments at the trial, which opened on February 24.

Le Scouarnec is accused of raping or sexually assaulting 299 people, almost all of whom were children under his treatment at the time of the alleged assaults. By number of purported victims, it's the single largest trial related to alleged child sexual abuse in France and one of the biggest ever in the world. It has shocked France, coming on the heels of another mass rape trial involving a man who drugged his wife and brought strangers into their home to assault her for years.

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The public prosecutor handling Le Scouarnec's case has said the alleged assaults took place over 25 years between 1989 and 2014, in several hospitals in France's western Brittany region, where the doctor worked. The prosecutor said the average age of the victims  who are both male and female  was 11 at the time of the alleged abuse.

During the first week's proceedings, members of Le Scouarnec's immediate family testified about what they knew regarding the allegations.

His ex-wife, Marie-France Le Scouarnec, took the stand Wednesday and denied having had any knowledge of her husband's purported actions.

"There was nothing that could have made me think that. Nothing," she told the court. "I never had an inkling. It's so huge, so unthinkable, inconceivable that my husband could have done all that."

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The alleged assaults came to light in 2017 after Le Scouarnec's neighbors' then-6-year-old daughter told her parents he had exposed himself and touched her through the fence that separated their yards.

During a search of his home as part of that investigation, police said they discovered hard drives containing more than 300,000 photos and videos of child sex abuse. They also said they found notebooks with meticulous records of the alleged abuse of child patients.

The doctor was convicted in December 2020 of sexually abusing four young girls  the young neighbor as well as a 4-year-old patient and two of his nieces. He was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

In court on Friday, his eldest son spoke of how his world had fallen apart, and how he turned to alcohol for a while after those initial revelations. He said he and his father had been very close when he was growing up and he had only good memories of his childhood.

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Questioned last week about her husband's conviction for abusing his two nieces, Marie-France Le Scouarnec said she had known nothing about that, either. The next day, the former surgeon's sister  the mother of the two nieces  took the stand and accused the perpetrator's ex-wife of "cruelty" and "lies" in her testimony.

The ex-wife of retired surgeon Joel Le Scouarnec, Marie-France Le Scouarnec, arrives for the trial of her former husband, who is charged with sexually assaulting or raping 299 young patients, at the Criminal Court in Vannes, western France, Feb. 25, 2025. / Credit: DAMIEN MEYER/AFP/Getty

The woman, Annie, whose last name was not made public at the trial, claimed Marie-France Le Scouarnec had known that her husband abused his nieces. Annie said the youngest of her two daughters confided in her in October 2000 that Le Scouarnec had sexually abused her. She told the court that her brother admitted the assault to her and said that his wife was aware of what had happened.

The 2017 investigation was not Le Scouarnec's first brush with the law. In 2005, he was convicted of possession of child sexual abuse images after an FBI investigation into an international network. He was given a four-year suspended sentence for those crimes. The court did not order any psychological followup, however, or any restrictions on his work.

During his career, Le Scouarnec worked in several hospitals across the Brittany region. Victims' associations have asked how he could have carried out so many alleged assaults without any alarms being raised.

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Investigators have said few of the children had any memory of the alleged assaults. For many of them, it came as a complete shock when police contacted them with evidence of what had allegedly happened, as recounted in the surgeon's journals.

As the trial got underway on February 24, Le Scouarnec told the court he had "committed heinous acts," and his lawyer said he admitted to carrying out "the vast majority" of the assaults of which he's been accused.

"I owe it to all these people and their loved ones to take responsibility for my actions and the consequences they may have had," Le Scouarnec told the court.

Outside the courthouse that first day, a small group of protesters brandished placards denouncing "more than 20 years of silence" about the surgeon's past.

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The trial is expected to last four months. During that time, the 299 alleged victims  who are now men and women  will be called on to recount what they can remember of their interactions with Le Scouarnec, who faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

War in Ukraine takes perilous turn after Zelenskyy, Trump Oval Office argument

Trump approval rating at 51%, new CBS News poll shows

The hidden side of Johnny Carson
A former North Kansas City Hospital employee pleaded guilty this week after allegedly placing a camera in a womens staff restroom in the hospital in 2023.

Gabriel Vanriette, 40, of Lawrence, pleaded guilty to felony invasion of privacy in Clay County court on February 27. He was charged in September 2023 after a hospital staff member discovered a tiny video camera that Vanriette had placed inside the womens bathroom of a hospital staff locker room, according to court documents.

Vanriette worked as a respiratory therapist at North Kansas City hospital before his arrest. The camera had been disguised as a pen and left in a storage bin facing the toilet, so that the lens captured videos of female hospital staff members partially unclothed, according to court documents. A charge nurse at North Kansas City Hospital discovered the device on September 14 and reported it to North Kansas City police after finding a micro SD card inside of it, court documents read.

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Officers inspected the miniature camera and found two videos taken on September 13 and 14, according to court documents. Security footage and key card entry logs showed Vanriette entering and exiting more than 15 times on the 14th, court documents read, even though he was not assigned to that locker room.

Investigators later recovered deleted videos from the pen camera in which Vanriettes hospital access card was visible. In total, Vanriette had filmed eight female hospital employees with the pen camera, according to court documents.

Vanriette was fired from North Kansas City Hospital after his arrest. He was still employed as a respiratory therapist at University Health in Kansas City, formerly Truman Hospital, at the time that the charges were filed.

Vanriette was held in detention in Clay County on a $5,000 bond from September 23 until January 2024, according to court records. He will next appear in Clay County court on May 30 at 3 p.m. for a sentencing hearing.

Prosecutors plan to seek a three-year sentence for Vanriette, according to court documents.
A former Social Security Administration employee in Massachusetts has pleaded guilty to using his job to try and recruit a woman seeking government benefits across state lines for paid sex, the U.S. Attorney said.

Dae Sung Kim, 36, of Auburn, pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to induce a person to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution, U.S. Attorney Leah Foley said in a statement on Friday.

U.S. District Court Judge Margaret Guzman scheduled sentencing for June 10.

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Kim was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in October and subsequently charged in December.

In March 2024, Kim met with a woman at the Gardner Social Security Administration field office who was seeking Social Security benefits after losing her job, prosecutors said.

After redirecting the woman to another Social Security Administration field office near her home in another state, Kim called her using the phone number he obtained from his agencys computer system, prosecutors said.

Kim indicated that he understood she was in a difficult situation and stated that maybe they could work something out that would benefit them both, the U.S. Attorney said in her statement.

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During a call monitored by law enforcement later that month, Kim again stated to the individual that they could help each other out and proposed giving the individual money in exchange for sex, prosecutors said.

In several subsequent text messages, Kim suggested that the woman travel to Massachusetts to meet him, offering to pay $100 to have sex in a car at a hotel parking lot, prosecutors said.

Kim traveled to the hotel parking lot to meet the woman in October. There, law enforcement officers arrested him.

For the charge of attempting to induce a person to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution, Kim faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000.

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SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  A former teacher at a now defunct boarding school for troubled teens in Hancock has been convicted of raping and sexually abusing students.

57-year-old Paul Geer was found guilty during a federal trial of transporting two different children to cross state lines to have sex with them. Geer was a teacher at the Family Foundation School, which operated in Hancock from 1992 to 2014.

The US Attorneys Office says Geer also disciplined students in a manner that was tantamount to torture. That included depriving the children of food or forcing them to eat food that had been thrown up. Students were also rolled up and bound in rugs and left isolated in rooms for long periods of time.

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Kids were also forced to do meaningless, hard physical labor.

Prosecutors say Geer, who was a music teacher at the school, used these punishments to coerce the two students to travel with him to the State of Maine and Toronto on separate occasions where he raped or sexually abused them.

Geer faces 15 years in prison on each of the 2 most serious charges at his sentencing in July.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WIVT - News 34.
By Andrew Mills

DOHA (Reuters) - A plan for Gaza drawn up by Egypt as a counter to U.S. President Donald Trump's ambition for a Middle East Riviera would sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by Arab, Muslim and Western states, according to a draft seen by Reuters.

The Egyptian vision for Gaza, which is due to be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday, does not specify whether the proposal would be implemented before or after any permanent peace deal to end the war triggered by the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks.

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Trump's plan, which envisioned clearing Gaza of its Palestinian inhabitants, appeared to back away from long-standing U.S. Middle East policy focused on a two-state solution and sparked anger among Palestinians and Arab nations.

Who will run Gaza after the conflict remains the great unanswered question in negotiations over the future of the enclave. Hamas has so far rejected the idea of any proposal being imposed on Palestinians by other states.

Cairo's plan does not tackle critical issues such as who will foot the bill for Gaza's reconstruction or outline any specific details around how Gaza would be governed, nor how an armed group as powerful as Hamas would be pushed aside.

Under the Egyptian plan, a Governance Assistance Mission would replace the Hamas-run government in Gaza for an unspecified interim period and would be responsible for humanitarian aid and for kick-starting reconstruction of the enclave, which has been devastated by the war.

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"There will be no major international funding for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Gaza if Hamas remains the dominant and armed political element on the ground controlling local governance," a preamble outlining the draft Egyptian plan's objectives said.

Details of Egypt's proposed framework for Gaza's future have not been previously reported.

Egypt, Jordan and Gulf Arab states have for almost a month been scrambling to formulate a diplomatic offensive to counter Trump's plan. A number of ideas have been proposed, with Egypt's considered the frontrunner.

Reuters was unable to determine whether Arab leaders would support the plan presented by Egypt.

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The plan does not specify who would run the governance mission. It said it would, "draw on the expertise of Palestinians in Gaza and elsewhere to help Gaza recover as quickly as possible".

The draft proposal was shared with Reuters by an official involved in Gaza negotiations who wished to remain anonymous because the draft has not yet been made public.

The plan firmly rejects the U.S. proposal for mass displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, which Arab states such as Egypt and Jordan see as a security threat.

"President Trump has been clear that Hamas cannot continue to govern Gaza," White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes said when asked about Egypt's Gaza plan and whether the U.S. would support it.

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"While the President stands by his bold vision for a post-war Gaza, he welcomes input from our Arab partners in the region. It's clear his proposals have driven the region to come to the table rather than allow this issue to devolve into further crisis," Hughes said.

STABILISATION FORCE

Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters the group knows of no such proposal by Egypt.

"The day after in Gaza must only be decided by the Palestinians," he said. "Hamas rejects any attempt to impose projects or any form of non-Palestinian administration, or the presence of any foreign forces on the land of the Gaza Strip."

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The Egyptian draft does not mention future elections.

Egypt's foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment, nor did the office of Israel's prime minister, whose support for any plan is seen as vital to secure a commitment that any future reconstruction will not be destroyed again.

Palestinian Islamist group Hamas has ruled the coastal enclave since 2007. It launched the Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel that killed 1,200 people and started the Gaza war.

A January 19 ceasefire brought a temporary end to the fighting but the first phase of the deal expired on Saturday with no sign of an agreement to move to the second phase.

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The Egyptian draft does not tackle the issue of what actions could be taken if Hamas refuses to disarm or step aside from politics.

The proposal envisions an International Stabilisation Force drawn primarily from Arab states that would take over the role of providing security from the militant group, with the eventual establishment of a new local police force.

Both security and governance bodies would be "arranged, guided and supervised" by a steering board. The draft said the board would comprise key Arab countries, members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the United States, Britain, the European Union and its member states, and others.

The plan does not detail a central governing role for the Palestinian Authority (PA), which opinion polls show has little support among Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

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A Palestinian official told Reuters that, like the West Bank, Gaza falls under the PA's jurisdiction - and it must be run by Palestinians.

"We agreed with the Egyptians on a committee made of Palestinian experts that will help the Palestinian Authority in running the Gaza Strip for six months. The committee is made of Palestinian experts and coordinates with the PA, and doesn't answer to non-Palestinian bodies," said the official, who asked not to be named for sensitivity.

RECONSTRUCTION BILL

Since Hamas drove the Palestinian Authority out of Gaza after a brief civil war in 2007, it has crushed all opposition there. Supported by Iran, it built an extensive security apparatus and military organization based around a vast network of tunnels - much of which Israel says it has now destroyed.

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The plan does not say who would pay to rebuild Gaza, a bill estimated by the U.N. at more than $53 billion. Two sources have told Reuters that Gulf and Arab states would need to commit at least $20 billion in the initial phase of reconstruction.

Egypt's proposal envisions that states on the steering board could establish a fund to support the interim governing body and arrange donor conferences to seek contributions for a longer-term reconstruction and development plan for Gaza.

The plan does not contain any specific financial pledges.

Oil- and gas-producing Gulf Arab states such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates could be vital sources of funding from the region.

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The United Arab Emirates, for instance, sees Hamas and other militant groups as an existential threat and is unlikely to offer any funding until Hamas has been sidelined.

The foreign ministries in Qatar and the UAE and Saudi Arabia's international media office did not immediately respond to requests for comment about Egypt's plan, or to questions about their willingness to commit funds to rebuild Gaza.

The draft plan also calls on the steering board to coordinate with a Civil Society Advisory Board, consisting of academics, NGO leaders and other notable figures.

(Reporting by Andrew Mills; Additional reporting by Nidal Al-Mughrabi in Cairo and Matt Spetalnick in Washington; Writing by Andrew Mills and Michael Georgy; Editing by David Clarke)
Elon Musks Starlink is reportedly poised to take over a $2.4 billion FAA contract. Officials at the Federal Aviation Administration have reportedly directed staff "to locate tens of millions of dollars" for a deal, Rolling Stone reported. The proposed deal has fueled controversy over government influence and conflict-of-interest concerns.

Officials at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have told staff "to locate tens of millions of dollars" for a deal with Elon Musk's Starlink, according to reports.

Three sources told Rolling Stone that the instructions had been primarily delivered to staff verbally, a move that is out of step with the agency's usual operations. One source with knowledge of the FAA's dealings told the outlet it seemed like someone does not want a paper trail.

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Verizon was originally awarded a contract by the FAA in 2023 to overhaul its communications technology. It's unclear whether the Verizon contract has now ended and if any Starlink deal is official.

A recent report from the Washington Post said that the Trump administration was considering giving Starlink the $2.4 billion contract, prompting a wave of conflict-of-interest concerns about Musk's role in the deal.

The contract, initiated in 2023, aims to assist the FAA in upgrading the communication platform used by air traffic control facilities. However, Musk has recently promoted his own technology while intensifying his criticism of the agency, describing the current state of air traffic control systems as extremely dire.

In a post on X last week, he said: The FAA assessment is single-digit months to catastrophic failure, putting air traveler safety at serious risk.

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Last week, Bloomberg reported that Musk had approved a deal to supply the FAA with 4,000 Starlink terminals. On his platform, X, Musk stated that the terminals are being provided at NO COST to the taxpayer on an emergency basis to restore air traffic control connectivity.

Representatives for the FAA and Musk's SpaceX did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Fortune, made outside normal working hours.

Conflict-of-interest concerns

Democratic lawmakers have already raised concerns about Musk's role at SpaceX and his influence within the Trump administration.

Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts wrote in an open letter to the FAA administrator: While I support efforts to modernize our air traffic control system and improve aviation safety, this decision raises conflicts-of-interest concerns, given Elon Musks dual position as Chief Executive Officer of SpaceX and wide-ranging role in the Trump administration."

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Reps. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) have also issued a joint statement accusing Musk of holding a "glaring conflict of interest."

President Trump and unchecked billionaire Elon Musk are stealing taxpayer dollars used to improve the safety of Americans and the U.S. military to instead boost Musks companies profits and hand tax breaks to their billionaire cronies," Clyburn and DeLauro wrote in the statement.

"It is the governments role to safeguard the lives of all Americans. President Trump and Elon Musk are avoiding their responsibility to keep America informed and safe by stealing resources while cutting thousands of critical safety jobs at the FAA," they said.

Musks involvement with the FAA extends beyond Starlink.

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He recently assumed a special government employee role and reportedly played a key part in the firing of hundreds of FAA employees last month, a move linked to cost-cutting measures under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

The White House has maintained in court filings that Musk is neither an employee nor the director of DOGE. However, Musk defended the layoffs in a post on X, stating: To the best of our knowledge, no one affecting safety has been fired.

Trump White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed this sentiment, claiming that no safety-critical employees were terminated.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Claim:

On Feb. 28, 2025, before a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Democrats who convinced him to reject a deal that would allow the U.S. to exploit minerals in Ukraine in exchange for U.S. support in Ukraine's war with Russia.

Rating:

Rating: Mixture

What's True:

Zelenskyy did meet with Democratic U.S. senators ...

What's False:

... but that meeting also included at least three Republican senators. Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat from Connecticut, emphatically rejected claims that the Democrats of the U.S. Senate delegation had dissuaded Zelenskyy from taking the minerals deal. Further, Zelenskyy confirmed to reporters two days after the meeting that his country was ready to accept the deal.

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After a contentious Feb. 28, 2025, meeting in the White House between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in which Trump accused him of not being grateful enough for U.S. support in Ukraine's war with Russia, rumors started to spread.

One such rumor was that before the Oval Office meeting, Zelenskyy had met with "anti-Trump" Democrats, who dissuaded him from accepting Trump's so-called "minerals deal." In short, the deal would give the U.S. the ability to exploit Ukraine's mineral resources in exchange for its continued support for Ukraine in the war.

These claims spread on social media. For example, a March 2, 2025, post on X said the Democrats in effect had "sabotaged" the meeting as a way to undermine Trump (archived):

Oh  the democrats sabotaged it



Im shocked. Shocked!



Before meeting Trump, Zelensky met with anti-Trump Democrats who advised him to reject the terms of the mineral deal the president was offering, according to Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn) pic.twitter.com/XFCQEH2hoq  Phil Holloway  (@PhilHollowayEsq) March 2, 2025

As of this writing, the post had gained 1 million views and 17,000 likes. The claim appeared multiple times on X, but also on Facebook. Further, U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez, a Republican from Florida, said in a television interview with Fox Business that "Democrats had sunk the deal on purpose" (archived):

"It's outrageous what the Democrats did" -- Rep. Carlos Gimenez on Trump blowing up on Zelenskyy pic.twitter.com/on1wNvT52P  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 3, 2025

Snopes' readers also inquired about the rumor's veracity. In sum, the claim consisted of a mixture of truth and falsehood.

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The rumor stemmed from an opinion column in the New York Post, a right-leaning publication, by Michael Goodwin. Goodwin based his claims on an X post by U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat from Connecticut, which he wrote after Zelenskyy met with several U.S. senators on Feb. 28, 2025 (archived):

Just finished a meeting with President Zelensky here in Washington. He confirmed that the Ukrainian people will not support a fake peace agreement where Putin gets everything he wants and there are no security arrangements for Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/eaCePJ4UZr  Chris Murphy  (@ChrisMurphyCT) February 28, 2025

Zelenskyy appears in the photograph with his team. To his right is Andriy Borysovych Yermak, head of the Office of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. To his left, Yuliya Svyrydenko, first vice prime minister of Ukraine; Rustem Umerov, defense minister of Ukraine; and Ihor Brusylo, deputy head of the office of the president. At the end of the table, Ukraine's flag and the United States' flag stand side-by-side.

While Goodwin was correct that Zelenskyy met with Murphy on Feb. 28, 2025, before the meeting with Trump, his column obscured the fact that Republican elected officials attended the same meeting, as well. Zelenskyy met with Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Democrat from Minnesota, Sen. Chris Coons, a Democrat from Delaware, and Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina. This is according to a photograph Coons shared on X immediately after that meeting, in which he posed with Klobuchar, Graham and Zelenskyy (archived):

Just finished an encouraging meeting in Washington with President @ZelenskyyUa and a bipartisan group of Senators to discuss our ongoing partnership with Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/x5FXdvH3B7  Senator Chris Coons (@ChrisCoons) February 28, 2025

Further, Zelenskyy posted a video of the meeting on X. In the video, two other Republican senators appear: Sen. Chuck Grassley, from Iowa, and Sen. Roger Wicker, from Mississippi (archived):

An important visit to the United States. In Washington, I met with a bipartisan delegation from the U.S. Senate.



Our discussions focused on the continued military assistance for Ukraine, relevant legislative initiatives, my meeting with President Trump, efforts to achieve a just pic.twitter.com/KJcosUpygc  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) February 28, 2025

In his video post, Zelenskyy said he'd met with a "bipartisan delegation of the U.S. Senate," and that he and his team were "grateful for the unwavering bicameral and bipartisan support for Ukraine throughout all three years of Russia's full-scale aggression."

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Among the topics they discussed, according to Zelenskyy, were "continued military assistance for Ukraine, relevant legislative initiatives, my [upcoming] meeting with President Trump, efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace, our vision for ending the war, and the importance of robust security guarantees."

In response to claims that Democrats had persuaded Zelenskyy to turn down the deal on minerals, Murphy posted an emphatic rebuke on X (archived):

Over the last 24 hours, MAGA has been ceaselessly spreading the claim that Democrats - from Susan Rice to Tony Blinken to me - pushed Zelensky to reject the minerals deal.



Total lie. Made up out of thin air. Zero sources.



1/ A short lesson how these lies spread in MAGA world. pic.twitter.com/8Riaqm9bkO  Chris Murphy  (@ChrisMurphyCT) March 2, 2025

"Total lie," Murphy said. "Made up out of thin air. Zero sources." In a long thread, Murphy documented how those claims had spread on social media among the far-right and Trump supporters.

Indeed, in an email response, a spokesperson for Murphy further said that contrary to Goodwin's assertions, the senatorial delegation attempted to convince Zelenskyy to accept the deals (emphasis ours):

The Members discussed the minerals deal with Zelensky and all encouraged him to sign it. It is our understanding that the text of the minerals deal had been finalized and agreed to and was ready to sign when he arrived in the States. During the meeting, Zelensky remarked that Ukraine could not accept a ceasefire deal (separate from the minerals deal) without a security guarantee because Putin has repeatedly broken the terms of previous ceasefire deals. At no point in the meeting did Senator Murphy or any of the Democratic senators encourage Zelensky to reject the minerals deal.

We have contacted all of the U.S. senators we could identify to confirm Murphy's assertion that Democrats had not pushed Zelenskyy to turn down the deal. We will update this story should they respond.

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Further undermining claims that Democrats had tanked the deal, Zelenskyy told journalists on March 2, 2025, that Ukraine was ready to take it.

Sources:

Baskaran, Gracelin, and Meredith Schwartz. Breaking Down the U.S.-Ukraine Minerals Deal. Feb. 2025. www.csis.org, https://www.csis.org/analysis/breaking-down-us-ukraine-minerals-deal.

Christensen, Laerke. 'There's No Ukraine-Russia Peace Deal  but a US-Ukraine Minerals Deal Could Be a Stepping Stone'. Snopes, 26 Feb. 2025, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/minerals-deal-ukraine-russia-peace/.

Goodwin, Michael. Dems Lead Zelensky, Ukraine off a Cliff with Pressure to Reject Mineral Deal. 2 Mar. 2025, https://nypost.com/2025/03/01/opinion/dems-lead-zelensky-ukraine-off-a-cliff-with-pressure-to-reject-mineral-deal/.

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https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/03/zelenskyy-says-ukraine-ready-to-sign-minerals-deal-after-spat-with-trump. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.



Updates:

March 4, 2025: This report was updated to add a statement from Sen. Chris Murphy's spokesperson.
SAN FRANCISCO, March 3 (Xinhua) -- AI startup Anthropic announced on Monday it has raised 3.5 billion U.S. dollars led by Lightspeed Venture Partners at a 61.5 billion dollar valuation.

The Series E, which also had participation from Bessemer Venture Partners, Cisco Investments, D1 Capital Partners, Fidelity Management & Research Company, General Catalyst, Jane Street, Menlo Ventures, and Salesforce Ventures, brings the company's total raised to 18.2 billion dollars, according to Crunchbase.

"With this investment, Anthropic will advance its development of next-generation AI systems, expand its compute capacity, deepen its research in mechanistic interpretability and alignment, and accelerate its international expansion," the U.S. San Francisco-based company wrote in a blog post.

"Anthropic is focused on developing AI systems that can serve as true collaborators, working alongside teams to tackle complex projects, synthesize information across fields, and help organizations achieve outsized impact," it added.

Anthropic was co-launched in 2021 by CEO Dario Amodei, who was once VP of research at OpenAI, along with a number of ex-OpenAI employees. 
(Reuters) -Democratic and Republican lawmakers aim to put the spotlight on their view of America's main issues with the guests they invite to President Donald Trump's Tuesday night address to a joint session of Congress.

The speech is due to begin at 9:10 p.m. ET (0210 GMT on Wednesday).

Democrats' choices are intended to focus attention on Trump's campaign to sharply downsize the federal government, while Republicans will highlight issues including immigration. Here is a brief look at some of their plans:

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DOGE DISRUPTIONS

Dozens of Democrats in the House of Representatives and Senate said they have invited former federal workers from their districts whose jobs were terminated as part of the mass firings by Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency. A fired park ranger, a tax collector and a National Science Foundation researcher are all expected to be among the guests of Democrats who are protesting Trump and Musk's drastic and hasty reduction of the federal workforce.

IMMIGRATION

In keeping with Trump's emphasis on enforcing tough immigration policies, Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson is bringing Olivia Hayes of Louisiana. Johnson's office said that Hayes' husband was killed in a drunk-driving incident by an immigrant living illegally in the U.S.

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First Lady Melania Trump invited the family of Laken Riley, the Georgia nursing student who was killed by an immigrant living in the U.S. illegally. Riley became the namesake of the first major legislation passed by the Republican-led Congress this year, which requires law enforcement to detain migrants accused of theft and violent crimes and which garnered bipartisan support.

SERVICE CUTS

Democrats said they were bringing constituents who opposed the Trump administration's attempts to cut federal funding for certain programs, including medical research on diseases they suffer from, and potential cuts to safety net programs including Social Security and Medicaid.

Democratic Senator Jacky Rosen of Nevada said she was bringing a Las Vegas teenager and his mother who rely on the Medicaid health insurance program for low-income and disabled Americans to help cover the $200,000 per year cost of life-saving care for the teen's numerous genetic disorders.

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TRANS WOMEN IN SPORTS

Republican Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Iowa said she was bringing conservative activist and former college swimmer Riley Gaines, who has advocated against allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Trump has signed an executive order banning transgender women from doing so, a directive that supporters said would restore fairness but critics contend infringes on the rights of a tiny minority of athletes.

The Trump family's guests are also set to include a North Carolina former high school athlete who was severely injured on the volleyball court by a transgender woman on the opposing team, the White House said, and a Florida mother who sued her child's school system because the school "socially transitioned" her child to a different sexual identity without her knowledge or permission.

ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT

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Both top Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer and Republican Johnson said they were bringing Israelis who were affected by the militant group Hamas' deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. That attack, which killed some 1,200 people, prompted Israel to launch a counteroffensive that has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health authorities.

Johnson's office said he was bringing Noa Argamani, a young woman taken hostage by Hamas along with more than 250 other Israelis during the attack. Argamani was rescued by Israeli forces in June last year.

Schumer said his guests would include the parents of two Israelis who were killed by Hamas in the attack.

POLITICAL VIOLENCE

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Melania Trump invited the family of Corey Comperatore, the man who was killed at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania last July by the gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump.

(Reporting by Gabriella Borter, Richard Cowan and David Morgan; Editing by Scott Malone, Howard Goller and Deepa Babington)
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  The fall out between President Donald Trump and Ukraines president continues.

The two leaders are still not on the same page. Right now, President Trump is pressuring President Volodymyr Zelenskyy into signing a ceasefire deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin

Zelenskyy says without security assurances guaranteeing Putin will not violate those terms he is uninterested.

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Three days after the shouting match heard around the world President Trump and President Zelenskyy are still at odds over how to end Ukraines war with Russia.

Zelenskyy said Sunday a peace agreement is still very, very far away following a meeting with European leaders.

The statement sparked backlash in Washington.

He better not be right about that, said Trump.

On Truth Social, President Trump blasted Zelenskyy calling it the worst statement he could have made adding, America will not put up with it for much longer.

He accuses Zelenskyy of not wanting peace.

I just think he should be more appreciative, said Trump.

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Echoing the president, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, told reporters NATO allies must step up if they want to keep Ukraine and Europe safe.

They have to also invest in the capabilities to do so, said Waltz.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer says Europe is prepared to increase support and map out a peace plan.

Britain will play a leading role, with if necessary and together with others, boots on the ground and planes in the air, said Starmer.

Democrats accuse President Trump of siding with Putin and urge the White House to not abandon U.S. allies.

I just think Americans leadership was so hurt by what happened in the white house and we need to get that back again, said Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).

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Republicans expressed frustration with Zelenskyys behavior.

Over the weekend House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) suggested Zelenskyy resign over his remarks in the Oval Office.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio who was in the room that day says the goal is to get back to the negotiation table.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
The family of an Ashland man who died in police custody last year filed a federal lawsuit against the city of Ashland, the police department and the police officers involved in the mans arrest.

Clarence Wilkerson, 34, died in March 2023 while in custody of the Ashland Police Department. The Kentucky State Medical Examiners Office ruled that Wilkersons death was accidental  the official cause being acute methamphetamine intoxication, state police said previously.

Video of Wilkersons interaction with police was recorded and uploaded to YouTube, and it was shared widely by users criticizing police for failing to provide medical aid as bystanders said Wilkerson was suffering medical distress.

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The lawsuit was filed Friday by Wilkersons brother, Abdul Wilkerson, and Alexandria Taylor, a representative for Clarence Wilkersons minor child.

Wilkerson was homeless at the time and was arrested by Ashland police officers while leaving a friends home, according to the lawsuit.

During the arrest, he was allegedly restrained and placed in a police cruiser despite showing clear signs of medical distress, such as difficulty breathing and inability to stand, the lawsuit reads.

The lawsuit claims the officers failed to provide necessary medical attention, leading to Wilkersons death. It accuses the city of Ashland and its police department of failing to train and supervise officers adequately, resulting in a violation of Wilkersons constitutional rights.

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The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages.

What happened in the case

The morning of March 4, 2023, Wilkerson was at a friends house playing video games. When he left the home, he was apprehended by police for an outstanding warrant, according to the lawsuit.

Wilkerson was unarmed, not resisting arrest and restrained with his arms and hands behind his back, according to the lawsuit.

Bethany Bowman, Wilkersons friend, was recording the arrest and repeatedly said Wilkerson was unable to breathe and losing color in his face.

Bowmans video  which sparked criticism of how police handled the incident  showed Wilkerson suffering from health issues while being put into the back of a patrol car. The video has since been removed online.

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Bowman pleaded that Wilkerson be taken to a hospital for medical treatment or that an ambulance be called to render aid, the lawsuit says.

But officers refused, the lawsuit states, and mocked Wilkersons cries instead.

As the officers lifted Wilkerson into the back of the cruiser and shut the door, the last words that Wilkerson said were, I cant breathe, according to the suit.

Kentucky State Police previously reported Wilkerson had methamphetamine, amphetamines and THC in his blood. He also had a prior heart condition that included congestive heart failure, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, the police press release said.

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He died later that day.

In July 2023, a Boyd County grand jury declined to file criminal charges against officers involved in Wilkersons arrest.

The family previously announced they had hired civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who represented the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others who were killed by police.

According to court documents, the family is now being represented by Northern Kentucky lawyer Brandon Voelker.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The family of one of the victims involved in a Platte County crime spree last week is speaking out.

The crime spree started last Thursday night and went into Friday morning.

Carjacking victim in homicide, abduction spree thankful to be alive

The suspect, 43-year-old George Clyde Manning III, allegedly shot and killed a woman in Riverside on Thursday night after stealing her car. Police identified her on Monday as 33-year-old Katherine Bjorklund.

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A few hours later, police said he took a mans truck, crashed it nearby, and then shot and killed a 12-year-old boy named Giuliani Calderon and injured his mother, Mercedes, at a home in the 4400 block of NW 50th Street.

Manning then allegedly kidnapped his 5-year-old daughter, which triggered an Amber alert. The girl was later returned safely to her family. Manning was shot and killed by police and Homeland Security agents around 7:30 Friday morning.

Missouri news: Headlines from St. Louis, Jefferson City and across the Show-Me State

Giuliani was a 7th grade student in the Park Hill School District at Walden Middle School. Here is what the school district sent to families on Sunday night:

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Dear Walden Families,

We wanted you to be aware of some difficult information that weve been working through over the course of the last three days in our school community. We have learned about the death of one of our Walden students. While this is beyond tragic, and its difficult to find the words, we do feel a responsibility to share this information with you as a school family.

One of our Walden 7th grade students died on Friday. As you may have seen in local news reports, our students death was associated with the Friday morning Amber Alert and resulting violence. Our staff has been working through this news and processing ourselves. We have established several forms of support for each other and for our students.

With this, we wanted to provide some pieces of guidance that might be helpful for you and our students over the next few days and weeks.

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Along with the message above, they also sent mental health resources.

View the latest headlines from Kansas City, Missouri, and Kansas at fox4kc.com

A friend of the family released a statement this morning.

As of right now, we are still all in shock and taking it day by day And Mercedes is recovering from her injuries. The family is doing the best as expected with the love and support from everyone,

All funeral arrangements for Giuliani have been taken care of. A GoFundMe has been set up to help the mother and her daughters through this difficult time. As of Monday, more than $19,000 has been raised to support the family.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The family of Angel Gomez, the co-founder of Operation H.O.P.E. who died this past Thursday. Feb. 27, said they long anticipated this somber day would come, but that they were all prepared for the moment.

My dad has taught me well. He has trained me well. That morning, 9 a.m., as soon as all the offices (opened up) and people got to work, we got into action. I made sure that we had everything we needed to get done in time before we released the information, said Rubi Gomez, Angel Gomezs daughter and co-founder of Operation H.O.P.E.

Angel Gomez (left) and Rubi Gomez (right)

He told me since I was a little girl, The only guarantee you have in life is that you are going to die, so what are you going to do with that time? And he made sure he made the most of his time while he was here, she said.

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Angel Gomez, co-founder of Operation H.O.P.E., dies

Gomez said her father died from his battle with congestive heart failure. He was 70 years old.

For about three decades, Angel Gomez and Operation H.O.P.E. heeded the call of people in need in the Borderland and beyond.

The organization was known for running food, school supplies, and holiday giveaways, for springing into action during difficult times like providing caskets to grieving families after the Uvalde shooting, or partnering with local hotels to make room for families impacted by the fires in Ruidoso.

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But Rubi Gomez said that for all their monumental efforts, they have remained a small and humble operation, largely spearheaded in the living room of her familys home.

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He was the brain of things. Sometimes he would jump ahead. And my mom, my dad, my husband and myself had to figure out how to execute all these amazing ideas that he had, Rubi Gomez said. Operation. H.O.P.E. was a team and he was my better half of the team. We always worked off of each other, so now its going to be hard not having my team member to help guide me through who to call and how to make it happen.

Patsy Ojeda Gomez, the wife of Angel Gomez, recalled the moment that she and her husband decided to embark on their journey of philanthropy, despite not being a wealthy family.

We had our own little business when we came to El Paso, back in 1995. And thats where it started. We had enough to pay our rent. We had enough to buy our groceries. Now what? So thats when we would buy groceries for a family member or for a neighbor, Ojeda Gomez said. Everything has to have a beginning, and it was a very humble beginning. But were just grateful to God that he (Gomez) gave us the vision and the ability to continue to serve our community.

Jesus Hernandez, Angel Gomezs son-in-law and Rubi Gomezs husband, said that he and Gomez had a very close relationship and that he helped mold him into the man he is today.

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He (Gomez) taught me how to love, how to have a big heart, how to give back to the community and to people. Hernandez said.

He specifically recalled when Gomez asked him and his friends to suit up in their superhero costumes and visit sick children at the local hospitals, which became a widely known tradition of Operation H.O.P.E.

Once they (the children) saw their favorite hero come up into the room, that kids face lit up. They got out of bed and the parents started crying, saying, They havent gotten out of bed or they havent moved or they havent smiled in a long time, and were just like, You know this is a great idea. So then Mr. G (Gomez) told me, Lets keep going. Lets keep going, Hernandez said

Services for Gomez will be held on Saturday, March 8, at the Rock Faith Center, 11201 Armour Dr.

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The services will begin with visitation from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., followed immediately by a celebration of life.

Gomezs family encourages people who will attend the services that instead of bringing flowers, they donate to Operation H.O.P.E. to fuel and support Gomezs passion and legacy.

You can donate by visiting their website, or by scanning the QR code in the image below.

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(Bloomberg) -- Nigel Farages decision to blame Volodymyr Zelenskiy for the disastrous outcome of his meeting on Friday with US President Donald Trump laid bare a split in the right of UK politics that threatens to cost support for his Reform UK Party.

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While senior members of the opposition Conservative party condemned Trump and Vice President JD Vances berating of the Ukrainian president, Farage  whose party has gained popularity since the Tories historic defeat in July  chose instead to say Zelenskiy had played it very badly in his Oval Office meeting and should have show the US leader more respect.

The contrasting stances suggest the Conservatives may finally have found an issue on which to differentiate themselves from Reform, which made inroads into their vote in Julys general election and has overtaken them in recent polls, despite the Tories tacking to the right under new leader Kemi Badenoch in an attempt to stave off the threat posed by the insurgent party.

If you look at the traditional Conservative voters or the working class Labour voters who Reform needs to win over, they are not going to be impressed by sucking up to Trump or being sympathetic to Putin, Jon Tonge, professor of politics at the University of Liverpool, said in an interview. Reforms leadership would be neo-Trumpian in a way the traditional Conservative right would not. The traditional Conservatives want more defense spending, more opposition to Russia.

The Conservatives were quick to jump on Farages remarks, comparing him to the divisive former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn for equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

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In Fridays meeting in the Oval Office, Zelenskiy  who said there no room for compromise with Vladimir Putin  was rebuked by Vance for failing to show enough gratitude to the US for its financial support since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Trump accused him of gambling with World War III, after branding him a dictator in the run-up to the meeting.

Farage  who counts himself as a personal friend of Trump and was name-checked during last years US election campaign by the now president  said Monday that Zelenskiy had overplayed his hand.

The truth is  and I think this is what Zelenskiy will have to face up to  is the longer this war goes on, the more it suits Russia, Farage said on LBC radio. Wars either end with a deal, or they end in annihilation.

In contrast, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch posted on social media site X that respectable diplomacy is essential for peace, while her partys justice spokesman, Robert Jenrick, said he was sickened by that degrading spectacle of Trump and Vance remonstrating with Zelenskiy.

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Meanwhile Ed Davey, who leads the UKs third party, the Liberal Democrats, also took a swipe at Farage on Monday, telling the House of Commons that President Trumps attack on the brave and dignified President Zelenskiy left everyone shocked and appalled  except, it seems, the honorable member for Clacton, the Reform leaders constituency.

Farages support of Trump and criticism of Zelenskiy risks posing a problem for Reform during a year in which it is hoping to win swathes of seats in local elections as it builds toward a general election that Starmer could call as late as mid-2029. Farage is hoping to build his party  which holds only five of the 650 seats in the House of Commons  into a contender for power by then.

The Reform leader is used to being able to represent himself as the voice of the people, rightly or wrongly, said Tim Bale, professor of politics at Queen Mary University of London. But on this one, whether you listen to radio phone-ins, whether you look at opinion polls, hes clearly on the wrong side of public opinion  possibly on the wrong side of history.

Tonge agreed with that verdict, saying: Reform could do itself damage if its associated with a pro-Trump position.

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The Conservatives sought to underscore their differences with Reform, with shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel issuing a statement saying Nigel Farage is completely wrong.

President Zelenskiy is a hero, who has stood up to Putins aggression and led his countrys defense against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last three years, Patel said, before making the comparison to Corbyn, who has urged the UK to stop prolonging the war in Ukraine by supporting it with arms. Badenoch has also repeatedly called Zelenskiy a hero in recent days, including in the House of Commons on Monday.

As well as backing Zelenskiy, Tory politicians have emphasized theyre broadly in agreement with Starmers approach to Ukraine. This weekend he has not really put a foot wrong, former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly told the premier in the Commons on Monday.

Recent YouGov polls have shown half of Britons thinks its right to stand up to Trump and criticize his actions, and 62% think Ukraine should be allowed to join NATO, a move the US administration has appeared to rule out. An Ipsos poll last month showed 57% of Britons hold an unfavorable opinion of the US president, compared to 25% who have a favorable one.

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Fridays meeting at the White House represented a wake-up call to conservatives who have flirted a little with the populous radical right agenda coming out of the USA, Bale said.

In the end, conservatism and populist radical right politics are not the same, he said.

Tonge said this is a very different type of US for UK Conservatives who typically hold a very Atlanticist outlook. Its beyond the pale for those who are used to seeing the US as a protector, not the US retreating in on itself. Previous presidents have had Britains back  theres not many traditional Conservatives who would say that this one does.

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British politician Nigel Farage is drawing criticism in the United Kingdom after echoing President Trumps rebuke of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The Reform U.K. leader said on radio station Leading Britains Conversation he thought Zelensky handled the tense Oval Office meeting with Trump very badly, arguing the Ukrainian leader showed no respect for the president.

Farage called Zelenskys handling of the back-and-forth with Trump and Vice President Vance very unwise.

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He also criticized the Ukrainian leader for not wearing a suit to the White House, saying Trump is old-fashioned about this stuff.

Zelensky wore an all-black cargo uniform and boots, consistent with what he has worn when meeting other global leaders amid his countrys defensive war against Russia.

If I turned up at the White House, I would make sure I was wearing a suit and my shoes were clean, Farage said.

Still, Farage said, I actually think good is going to come of Friday. He predicted Zelensky is going to sign the deal and said he expects the Ukrainian leader will return to Washington.

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Trump and Zelensky met at the White House on Friday to finalize a rare earth mineral deal between the U.S. and Ukraine amid a broader Trump administration push to bring an end to Ukraines defensive war against Russia.

Tensions boiled over at the meeting, with talks over a minerals deal abruptly cut off. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who met with Trump days earlier while urging continued U.S. aid for Ukraine, embraced Zelensky in London after the spat.

Starmer, speaking to the U.K.s House of Commons on Monday, said Western nations must keep aid flowing to Ukraine and criticized Farage over his belittling of Zelensky, The Guardian reported.

Can I just remind him Russia is the aggressor, Starmer said. Zelensky is a war leader whose country has been invaded, and we should all be supporting him, not fawning over Putin.

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Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey said in a post online that [e]veryone was appalled by Trumps disgraceful attack on Zelensky  except Nigel Farage, of course. He called Farage a spokesman for Trump and said he just licks Trumps boots.

Trump is not a reliable ally against Russia, so I am proud that the UK is leading with our European and Commonwealth allies for Ukraines defence and our collective security, Davey wrote.

After Trump and Zelenskys explosive meeting, European leaders quickly rallied behind the Ukrainian president and attempted to find a way forward on peace talks without the United States.

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  An investigation is underway for a crash on Pali Highway that left one motorcyclist dead.

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First responders were called to the incident near Saint Stephen Diocesan Center shortly before 9 a.m. on Sunday, March 2.

10 downtown Honolulu safety cameras to issue speed warnings

According to Honolulu police, a 56-year-old male motorcyclist was driving north on Pali Highway.

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At the same time, a 73-year-old female in a small sedan was driving south on the highway and attempted to make a left turn into Saint Stephen Diocesan Center.

The male motorcyclist broadsided the sedan. He was ejected onto the roadway.

Paramedics arrived and delivered life-saving measures to both parties.

The motorcyclist was brought to an area hospital in critical condition where he later died. The female driver was also transported in serious condition.

Check out more news from around Hawaii

HPD said this is Oahus 14th traffic fatality of 2025 compared to five at the same time last year.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
David "Bud" Morris celebrates his son Landen's first Christmas in 2005. Five days later, Bud died after a mine owner, the only mine emergency technician on duty, failed to render aid after Bud was injured underground. (Morris family photo)

Growing up along the Harlan-Letcher county line in Eastern Kentucky, Landen Morris often heard from family that he reminded them of his father.

It wasnt just because his slightly crooked smile or brown eyes resembled David Bud Morris, they told him. It was the way he talked, the way he laughed, his personality. Bud was a good person, they said, who cared about others. The 19-year-old plays the bass drum in the Morehead State University marching band, and his late father loved playing the drums in a rock band.

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I never got to really meet him personally, Landen told the Lantern over the phone. I feel like that process of getting to know him was a little more difficult.  Just learning to actually trust what people had to say about him, and the fact that they were all good things.

Landen was only 3 1/2 months old when Bud Morris was fatally injured in an underground coal mine in Harlan County in December 2005, leaving behind his mother, Stella Morris, to raise him. It was a death that federal inspectors said was preventable, in part because Bud, 29, didnt receive proper first aid to stop bleeding after a loaded coal hauler nearly amputated both legs. The only person trained on site in emergency medical care, the mine owner, failed to provide proper aid.

Morris death was part of a spate of deaths in coal mines across the country including five miners killed in an underground explosion in Harlan County in 2006. Stella Morris and the other widows did not grieve in silence. They joined the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) at the Kentucky Capitol to push for stronger safety protections.

Stella and Bud Morris the Christmas before Landen was born. (Morris family photo)

That intense lobbying effort led to Kentucky lawmakers in 2007 unanimously approving a number of mine safety protections that went beyond federal rules.

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One protection was put in place because of what happened to Bud Morris, said Tony Oppegard, a former mine inspector and attorney who helped write the law. The legislature required at least two mine emergency technicians (METs), or miners trained to provide medical care and stabilize a miners condition, on each mining shift. If one MET was unable to help, the new law assured that a backup MET would be there.

Now, nearly two decades after losing Bud, Stella, joined by Landen, is speaking out again because Kentucky miners are at risk of losing that extra MET. The House last month approved a bill that would end the requirement for a backup MET on shifts with 10 or fewer miners.

The sponsor of House Bill 196, Rep. John Blanton, R-Saylersville, who represents Knott, Magoffin and part of Pike County, has argued small mines are being temporarily shut down by not having two METs available on site, hurting productivity and impacting miners paychecks. Blantons HB 196 awaits action by the Senate.

An operator of small surface mines in Eastern Kentucky told the Lantern he doesnt want to endanger miners but that having one MET on site is sufficient coupled with the first aid training his miners receive. Oppegard, the former mine safety inspector, disagrees, saying the extensive emergency medical training that METs receive goes well beyond first aid training.

I just feel like theyre doing miners a disservice

Stella remembers Dec. 30, 2005 was the last working day of the year for Bud at Mine No. 3 with H & D Mining Inc. She was getting ready to take a shower and go to her job when she got a call from the mine saying Bud was being taken to the hospital. Buds legs were cut off, the caller said.

David Bud Morris at work. He was 29 when he bled to death following an accident underground. (Photo provided)

By the time she got to the hospital, Bud was gone. She remembers the months after Morris death as a bad dream she couldnt wake up from.

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I had a 3 1/2 month old son, and I would look at him for my strength to carry on through the day, because part of me wanted to go on and be with Bud, Stella said. But I would look at my son knowing that he had lost his dad. I couldnt make him lose his mom.

Shed also replay in her mind the decisions made by miners that day when Bud died  why they didnt elevate his body to mitigate the bleeding, or why the only mine emergency technician on site didnt instruct other miners on how to help Bud.

According to a federal mine fatality report, Morris, a shuttle car operator, died from near amputating injuries to his legs when he was struck from behind by a loaded coal hauler. His left leg was severed 17 inches above the heel.

The report states the mine emergency technician at the mine did not provide Morris with any first aid as he continued to bleed, instead telling miners to get him out of here. A supervisor, who was supposed to receive first aid training but had not yet done so, wrapped cravat bandages around Morris knees.

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Outside the mine while waiting for an ambulance, miners had applied two pieces of rope to each leg above the knee in an attempt to stop the bleeding, according to the report. Miners didnt apply dressings or tourniquets to the injury, nor were pressure points used to mitigate the bleeding. A paramedic who treated Morris said there would have been a very different outcome if basic first aid training had been implemented, according to the report.

The lone mine emergency technician at the mine had panicked, the acting director of Kentuckys mine safety office told the Louisville Courier-Journal in a Feb. 15, 2008 article.

Stellas takeaway: Just because you have a title dont mean youre going to do what you should do when it comes down to things like that. If we would have had someone else, just one other miner trained to do what Bud needed, he may still be with us today.

Stella filed suit against H&D Mining Inc. but received no compensation from the coal mining company.

Bud Morris and newborn Landen. (Morris family photo)

When Landen was growing up, shed tell him how much his dad loved him and that he was in heaven. Stella didnt sit down with Landen and share some of the details of what had happened to Bud until her son was about 10 years old.

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My son would just lay and cry for his dad, and it was like, He knew his dad but he didnt know his dad, And it was a struggle, Stella said. Im very proud of my son for being the tough kid that he is. I just thought it was a different life for him than what he would have had had he had his dad growing up.

Landen told the Lantern he didnt look at the federal mine fatality report detailing how his father died until last month. He worries that if HB 196 becomes law other injured miners will die like his father for lack of trained help. Ending a requirement that could save someones life one day is, without a better term, stupid, Landen said. I just feel like theyre doing miners a disservice.

Changes in Kentuckys coal industry

Both proponents and critics of HB 196 recognize the significant decline of Kentuckys coal industry, particularly in Eastern Kentucky, in the nearly two decades since Buds death.

The market pressures of competitive natural gas prices along with cheaper coal produced elsewhere decreased demand for Appalachian coal, while mines became more mechanized and automated. The number of active mines and miners in Kentucky have steadily dropped.

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Blanton, the sponsor of HB 196, has argued that fewer and smaller coal mines are operating now in Eastern Kentucky. Some of those smaller operators asked him for the change. He told the Lantern he wants to cause no harm to miners, only keep them working.

A truck loaded with coal drives past a loadout point for a coal mine on August 26, 2019 near Cumberland in Harlan County. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

I dont want to cause consternation for them, by no means. I just want to make sure that our mines are able to stay operational, that we do so in a safe manner, Blanton said. Im simply trying to make a tweak to it so that mines can stay operational.

According to the states 2023 annual mine safety report, 53 licensed mines  out of 158 total  had 10 or fewer employees. Those small mines accounted for 267 of the 4,766 total employees counted in the report.

When asked about small mining operations that have been impacted by the MET requirement, Blanton pointed to former Pikeville Mayor Frank Justice II who operates a few small surface mines in Eastern Kentucky.

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Justice in a phone interview said its been difficult to have two METs on site for his highwall mining operations, particularly overnight shifts, staffed with three or four people. Highwall mining is a technique in which machinery is used to extract coal from an unmined wall of excavated earth.

Its a big burden to keep two METs on there, especially when guys already got all their first aid training, Justice said. What happened to Mr. Morris is certainly a tragedy, but Ive got confidence in my guys ability to handle situations.

Justice said in the past when he has had only one MET available, he has hired emergency medical technicians from local fire departments to stay on site while his miners operate. He said he pays his certified METs a dollar more per hour, but he also suggested some of his miners dont want the responsibility of being a MET.

Anytime you ask for something like this, its controversial of course. I know that, Justice said.

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Oppegard, the attorney who helped write the 2007 law, said that while the industry has declined, the need for a backup MET at all mine sites has not.

The free training required to become certified as a MET takes at least 40 hours and includes learning about cardiac emergencies, muscular and skeletal injuries and bleeding and shock. An exam and annual training also are required.

The names of coal miners whose lives were cut short in the mines are carved into a memorial in Cumberland. The photo was taken in August 2019. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

The industrys decline has coincided with the disappearance of organized labor in Kentucky mines. The last unionized Kentucky coal mine closed at the end of 2014. The United Mine Workers of America union has previously opposed bills that would reduce the required number of METs for small coal operations.

In 2009, UMWA President Cecil Roberts wrote a letter to the editor in part condemning a Kentucky bill that would have reduced the number of required METs from two to one for mine shifts with 18 or fewer workers. Roberts wrote then that supporters of these attacks on miners safety say they are taking these steps to help small mine operators.

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One thing you can say about these folks: At least they arent trying to hide the truth of their greed. They are willing to be quite upfront about their desire to put profits and production ahead of safety in Kentucky coal mines, Roberts wrote.

The UMWA was neutral on a similar Kentucky bill last year to reduce the number of METs, and Blanton has said the UMWA is neutral on this years bill as well. A representative with the national UMWA office didnt respond to emails requesting an interview about the unions position on this years bill.

Every mining law ever written on paper was written with the blood of dead miners. It always took a disaster to get the laws changed.

 Steve Earle, United Mine Workers of America

In a recent interview, Steve Earle, a former UMWA lobbyist who helped push for the original requirement for two METs and current vice president for the UMWA district representing Western Kentucky, spoke personally about his experience working with Stella and other widows to pass the 2007 mine safety law.

The late Democratic Rep. Brent Yonts of Muhlenberg County carried the mine safety bill in 2007; it passed both legislative chambers unanimously.

I was speaking at a Democratic function. I said, Because of the hard work that Rep. Yonts did  women have husbands and children have fathers. And I was convinced then, and Im convinced now, that that legislation saved miners lives, Earle said.

Earle, speaking to the Associated Press in 2007, said the mine safety law showed what determined, passionate people like Stella and the other widows can do when they have right on their side. Earle told the Lantern he still believes that.

They did have right on their side. They were very effective, Earle said. Every mining law ever written on paper was written with the blood of dead miners. It always took a disaster to get the laws changed.

A coal miners son builds a new future

Landen Morris is a student and drummer at Morehead State University. (Photo provided)

Landen says he has a lot of respect for his many neighbors and high school classmates who work in mining. He believes coal mining  an occupation thats taxing and difficult for a number of reasons  is an integral part of his mountain community.

He picked a different path, enrolling at Morehead State where he hopes to become a high school English teacher. He remembers writing an essay about the epic poem Beowulf in high school, being fascinated by the Old English syntax. He doesnt know what his future holds or whether hell stay in Eastern Kentucky but he hopes to inspire and help others.

As for the father he never got to know in person, he believes Bud would be proud of him.

Im on the path to actually doing something else than whats usually expected in our little town. Because not many people do go to college here, let alone teach, Landen said. I feel like he would just be really, really proud of me, that Im carrying on that dream and that Im actually chasing it, rather than falling into something that I wouldnt enjoy.

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A Massachusetts law that expands access to vehicle repair data just got a major win in court  paving the way for a more affordable and sustainable future for car owners.

On Feb. 11, a federal judge rejected an attempt by automakers to overturn a 2020 voter-approved law that grants independent repair shops and vehicle owners access to key repair and diagnostic data. This ruling ensures that drivers can fix their cars where and how they choose, rather than being locked into expensive dealership-only repairs.

Modern cars are essentially computers on wheels, with automakers using proprietary software to restrict access to essential repair information. This software can limit where consumers are able to go for maintenance and repairs, often forcing them to pay higher prices at manufacturer-authorized service centers.

With this ruling, Massachusetts vehicle owners will have greater freedom to repair their cars at local mechanics, lowering costs while reducing waste. When repairs are more accessible and affordable, fewer cars end up prematurely scrapped  cutting down on unnecessary manufacturing pollution and landfill waste.

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This move could also encourage nationwide adoption of similar right-to-repair policies, benefiting consumers across the U.S. and supporting a more circular economy.

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents major manufacturers like General Motors and Volkswagen, opposed the ruling, arguing that the Massachusetts Data Access Law was at odds with the U.S. Constitution.

"Today's decision will introduce potential security risks to our customers and their vehicles," the alliance maintained in a statement.

However, Massachusetts officials countered that the law includes provisions for a standardized, secure system to manage repair data access.

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This decision builds on growing momentum for right-to-repair laws, which extend beyond vehicles to include electronics, appliances, and even farm equipment. States like New York and California have also introduced right-to-repair laws that empower consumers and reduce electronic waste.

By giving people more control over their purchases, these policies make everyday products last longer  keeping more materials in use and out of landfills.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
GAZA, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates on Monday called for the Israeli army to withdraw from the Gaza Strip and allow the State of Palestine to assume its duties.

In a press statement, the ministry called for real international measures "to curb the occupation's aggression against our people and their rights in a way that ensures the establishment of a ceasefire and the rapid empowerment of the State of Palestine and its internationally recognized legitimate institutions to carry out their responsibilities and immediately extend their sovereignty over the Gaza Strip and the entire Palestinian territory occupied since 1967."

Earlier on Saturday, the 42-day initial phase of the three-stage agreement between Hamas and Israel expired, with no breakthrough announced for its next phase.

Israel is seeking to extend the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement for an additional 42 days, while Hamas rejects this and wants to move forward with negotiations for the second phase.

The second phase of the agreement is supposed to focus on the release of the remaining Israeli hostages, the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the implementation of a permanent ceasefire. 
WASHINGTON (AP)  Federal employees face a midnight deadline to comply with Elon Musk 's second demand for reports on their recent accomplishments, a request that has become a flashpoint within the government workforce.

Musk and President Donald Trump have suggested that employees who don't comply could get fired. They've also described the requirement  a list of five things that each person did last week  as an unobjectionable way to increase accountability within a sprawling bureaucracy.

But for many workers, the request has been a source of anxiety and confusion as the new administration tightens its grip on the federal government. Some agencies are still telling their workforces not to respond or to limit what they say in response, just as they did after Musk's first request last month.

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Judging by instructions that have circulated in recent days, the workforce will face a standing request for lists of accomplishments every Monday. There are roughly 2.4 million federal workers excluding active-duty military and postal workers, 80% of whom are based outside of the Washington, D.C. metro area.

At the Food and Drug Administration, employees received three emails Monday on the topic  the first at about 6:45 a.m. Eastern letting them know about the request, the second before 8 a.m. telling them to await guidance, and the third after 11:30 a.m. explaining how they should respond.

Employees were told to write back with a high level of generality" and not include any sensitive data, discuss specific grants or identify colleagues that they're working with.

There was similar guidance at the Department of Energy, which plays a key role in managing the country's nuclear arsenal.

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Do not include any sensitive or classified information, and do not send any links or attachments, wrote Energy Secretary Chris Wright. If all your activities are sensitive, please reply All of my activities are sensitive.

Meanwhile, the State Department on Saturday told its workforce that department leadership would respond on their behalf. And the Federal Bureau of Prisons said employees could respond that disclosure of my duties may compromise institution security or operations.

Justice Department employees were told after the initial request last week that they didnt need to respond due to the confidential and sensitive nature of the Departments work. But on Monday, employees were told that effective immediately, they should follow the instructions in the email from the Office of Personnel Management.

Meanwhile, the FBI workforce was told that Director Kash Patels previous guidance instructing employees to hold off on responding remains in effect until further notice."

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The initial demand for lists of five accomplishments came last month. The Office of Personnel Management eventually told agencies that it was optional despite Musks threat of layoffs for noncompliance.

This time, some of the requests came from individual agencies, which have the power to hire, fire and discipline workers.

Musk described the requirement as a pulse check" during Trump's first Cabinet meeting of his second term.

Do you have a pulse and two neurons? he said. So if you have a pulse and two neurons, you can reply to an email.

____

Associated Press writers Matthew Perrone, Rebecca Santana, Matthew Lee, Michael Sisak and Alanna Durkin Richer contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  Unions rallied together at McPherson Square, holding signs that read, Federal Workers are heroes as many federal employees made their way to work Monday morning.

We want to really be with them; a lot of them are coming back to work for the first time in a while, said Randy Erwin, National President of the National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM). But we want to thank them for the incredible work that they do we want to show them some positivity.

You could see the emotion on employees faces; many smiled, some held their hand on their chest in appreciation, and others said thank you.

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Were just here to say we have your back and you are appreciated because federal workers matter, said Hasan Solomon, legislative and political director for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW).

This comes as the Trump administration lays off thousands of federal workers in an effort to downsize the federal government and slash spending. The last several weeks have been tough for federal workers as uncertainty surrounds the security of their jobs. Monday morning, local unions representing some federal employees made sure they showed their support.

Federal workforce prepares for more mass layoffs following new memo from OPM

We want to see all these illegal fires stopped, and we want to see them stop now, said Solomon.

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People who are working in the federal government, theyre doing this because they want to do it Theyre not trying to get rich. They just want to be able to provide a service for American people all over the country, he added.

Confusion sparked recently when the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), headed by Elon Musk, asked all federal employees to send five bullet points listing their accomplishments for the week. Some agencies told their employees not to comply, while others encouraged it.

According to a report from the Associated Press, another one of those emails was sent to some workers Friday, and employees are expected to respond by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, March 3.

Despite the changes to the workforce, unions representing federal employees are making sure to show their support and appreciation to federal workers.

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All workers stand in solidarity with federal workers because its happening to them today, and it could be private sector workers tomorrow, said Solomon.

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Federal authorities in Los Angeles have arrested and charged two alleged leaders of a criminal organization said to have smuggled a little more than 20,000 undocumented immigrants from Guatemala to the U.S. over five years  including seven who died in a car crash in 2023.

Eduardo Domingo Renoj-Matul, a.k.a. "El Jefe" and "Turko," and Cristobal Mejia-Chaj were arrested last week and have pleaded not guilty to a slew of charges related to smuggling migrants across the U.S border. A federal judge ordered the men, who are in the country illegally, jailed without bond.

The men face up to life in prison and the possibility of the death penalty, acting U.S. Atty. Joseph T. McNally said during a news conference Monday announcing the charges.

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Attorneys for Renoj-Matul and Mejia-Chaj did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The offenses alleged in the indictment show a criminal group that acted with callous disregard for our nations immigration laws and no regard for the immigrants that they smuggled, McNally said.

The human smuggling case, McNally said, was part of a weeklong series of events "focused on revitalizing existing immigration enforcement activities." The U.S. attorney's office in L.A. also announced Monday that, in recent weeks, charges have been filed against 126 people accused of illegally reentering the country after being removed.

Many of those charged had been convicted of felony offenses before their removal from the U.S., offenses that include manslaughter and crimes against children, according to federal authorities. The charges come amid President Trumps deluge of orders and policy changes intended to toughen immigration laws and facilitate deportations.

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U.S. Border Patrol provided around 50 agents for operations Friday linked to the human smuggling case.

The arrests Friday prompted fears of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement "raid" in Los Angeles. Yasmeen Pitts OKeefe, an ICE spokeswoman, previously said there was an ongoing investigation on human smuggling.

According to an indictment filed last week, the "Renoj-Matul transnational criminal organization" operated for at least a dozen years and specialized in transporting migrants from Guatemala. Federal authorities called it one of the largest human smuggling organizations in the country.

Helmer Obispo-Hernandez, who is suspected of being a lieutenant in the organization and a supervisor of a team of drivers, and Jose Paxtor-Oxlaj, who is suspected of being a driver, have also been charged, according to the indictment.

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While search warrants were being carried out Friday, Obispo-Hernandez allegedly called a law enforcement agent and threatened to kill that agent and his family members "by cutting off their heads," McNally said. Obispo-Hernandez, who remains a fugitive, has also been charged with threatening a federal task force officer.

"Those actions demonstrate just how violent this organization is," McNally said.

Read more: Russian national charged with biting ICE officer who arrested him

Obispo-Hernandez is believed to be in Guatemala, federal authorities said. Paxtor-Oxlaj has been in custody in Oklahoma since Nov. 21, 2023, when he was suspected of involvement in a car crash that killed seven people he was transporting to Los Angeles, including three minors, according to the indictment. One of those killed was a 4-year-old, according to McNally.

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The organization came on the radar in 2021, when Border Patrol agents from the Indio station traveling on Interstate 10 noticed Guatemalan undocumented immigrants being transported west from points in New Mexico and Arizona, said Gregory K. Bovino, chief patrol agent of Border Patrol's El Centro sector.

"One of the most complex far-ranging, far-reaching smuggling organizations is now out of business," Bovino said. "Border security is created. It doesnt just happen.

Renoj-Matul worked with associates in Guatemala who solicited immigrants to come to the U.S., charging between $15,000 and $18,000 for each one, the indictment alleges. Lieutenants within the Renoj-Matul organization led smuggling cells with teams of drivers and operators of stash houses, according to the indictment.

Mejia-Chaj, described as Renoj-Matul's "right-hand man," allegedly operated a stash house on James M. Wood Boulevard in the Westlake area, where people smuggled by the organization were brought and held. After the smuggling fee was paid, the migrants were transported elsewhere in the country, according to the indictment. If the fee was not paid, they would be held against their will, the indictment alleges.

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Even after the fatal car collision in Elk City in 2023, which Paxtor-Oxlaj is accused of causing, the smuggling continued, according to the indictment. In a 2024 case, an undocumented immigrant, referred to only by her initials M.M.A., was alleged to have been held against her will in the stash house for three months when the smuggling fee of $15,000 went unpaid.

Read more: Leaked document says 'large scale' immigration enforcement action coming soon to L.A.

According to the indictment, after a third party reneged on paying M.M.A.s smuggling fees, Renoj-Matul and others in Guatemala called the woman's mother and threatened to harm the daughter, including by warning that she would come home in a box if the fees weren't paid.

On Aug. 7, an unindicted co-conspirator called M.M.A.s mother in Guatemala, blaming her for a law enforcement search of the Wood Boulevard house the month before. According to the indictment, in December, three unidentified people in Guatemala traveled to M.M.A.s mothers home and demanded payment, threatening her with firearms.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A federal law enforcement presence in a New Lebanon neighborhood led to the arrest of someone allegedly wanted on murder charges in another country.

The New Lebanon Police Department posted to social media March 3 at 9:08 a.m., saying an operation relating to a warrant was occurring in the 200 block of Perry Street between Gloria Avenue and North Clayton Road.

1 in custody after hours-long police, SWAT activity

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One person was taken into custody without incident, according to New Lebanon Police Department. Officials reportedly used flashbangs and confirmed no shots were fired.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security Investigations provided 2 NEWS with a statement, saying someone was allegedly wanted on murder charges in El Salvador.

Residents were urged to stay inside while the operation was active. At 10:17 a.m., the department provided an update, saying the road has since reopened and the area is safe.

According to the HSI spokesperson, the suspect is in federal custody.

Several federal agencies responded to the scene alongside HSI, including the DEA, FBI, ATF and U.S. Border Patrol.

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Authorities have not released the suspects name, but say he is an illegally present El Salvadorian national who is is wanted in his home country on murder charges.

Additional charges are pending.

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MCDOWELL COUNTY, WV (WVNS)  FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams made their way to McDowell County to help people in the aftermath of flooding that swept through the region.

According to a press release, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) Teams will be in McDowell County for door to door residential outreach to help people who were affected by flooding in February 2025.

Major Disaster Declaration approved by President Trump for counties in West Virginia

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FEMA staff will be able to help people register for FEMA assistance, as well as make minor application corrections and check the status of FEMA applications.

Those who are eligible to apply for FEMA assistance include people who live in Mercer, McDowell, Wyoming, and Mingo counties and were affected by flooding that started on February 15, 2025.

Residents do not need to wait on FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams to apply for FEMA assistance, and can also:

Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. Anyone who uses a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, are advised to give FEMA the number for this service.

Visit DisasterAssistance.gov

Download the FEMA App

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FEMA inspectors will follow up with applications and review reported damages from those who already applied for FEMA assistance.

Testing offered in McDowell County for well water affected by flooding

The press release stated that although FEMA teams will be in the area, people are advised to be careful of possible fraud and scams from people pretending to be with FEMA:

FEMA representatives will not charge a fee or ask for payment.

FEMA representatives will always have a laminated identification badge.

Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number.

Legitimate FEMA representatives will only ask for the last four digits for the verification process.

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Anyone with concerns can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Additional information on West Virginias disaster recovery can be found on the West Virginia Emergency Management website, the West Virginia Emergency Management Divisions Facebook page, FEMAs website, and the FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency Facebook page.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
By Saleem Ahmed

QUETTA, Pakistan (Reuters) - A female suicide bomber killed a Pakistani paramilitary force member and injured four others in Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province in an attack claimed by separatists, a district official said on Monday.

"One soldier of the Frontier Corps was killed and four others injured in the suicide attack conducted by a female suicide bomber," said Bilal Shabbir, the deputy commissioner of Kalat District where the attack took place.

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Several ethnic insurgent groups in Balochistan are battling the central government, saying it unfairly exploits gas and mineral resources in the province, where poverty is rife.

One of the groups, the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has previously used female militants to stage attacks, though they mostly involve male perpetrators.

Monday's attack was claimed by a lesser-known faction of BLA known as the Baloch Liberation Army (Azad), in a message sent to journalists.

In August, at least 73 people were killed when separatist militants attacked police stations, railway lines and highways and security forces launched retaliatory operations.

(Reporting by Saleem Ahmed in Quetta, Writing by Charlotte Greenfield; Editing by Ros Russell and Tomasz Janowski)
The circus, also known as the Florida Legislature, is back in town. (Photo via FSU Flying High Circus.)

OCCUPIED TALLAHASSEE  The circus is coming to town.

Yall might know it as the regular session of the Florida Legislature.

Dont even begin to think this year cant possibly be worse than last year, when lawmakers passed a dumpster full of bills to make Florida worse.

They include:

Allowing underage kids to work 30-hour weeks when school is in session, teaching them the value of low-paid labor.

Making sure businesses dont have to give roofers, construction workers, etc., water breaks or shelter from the blazing sun and 100-degree temperatures. This is Florida: Suck it up, Buttercup!

A law letting people shoot bears whenever they feel like it.

Scrubbing references to climate change, but ensuring students learn communism is the worst thing in the universe, worse than having to eat your vegetables, worse than Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey, worse than syphilis.

Cracking down on degenerate nekkidness by decreeing that all strippers must be over 21.

Declared a part of Tyndall Airforce Base Spaceport Territory, perhaps to become the future home of Starfleet Academy.

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Accomplishments to be proud of, indeed.

But 2025 promises even more landmark legislation.

Always focused on the critical issues, your elected representatives will make it a law that you call the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.

Of course, its not the Gulf of America, any more than Greenland is actually green or Bombay Duck is a waterfowl.

The Associated Press and the rest of the planet will continue to call it the Gulf of Mexico (as will rational Floridians), but since when does reality deter Trump-drunk legislators?

Chemtrails

Case in point: SB56, sponsored by Sen. Ileana Garcia, R-Coral Gables, would forbid messing with the weather.

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Seems she agrees with U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, who hinted the sinister Biden administration was responsible for Hurricane Helene.

Well, were not putting up with people fooling around with storms and heatwaves and space lasers here in Florida, and while were outlawing cloud seeding to make it rain  which hasnt been done for half a century  we need this bill to deal with those terrifying chemtrails, too.

You know: The white lines you see when an aircraft flies overhead?

Theyre actually nothing but condensation, but Garcia reposted (and did not refute) loony conspiracy theories suggesting theyre chemicals that could facilitate mind control.

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The nations new HHS Secretary, RFK Jr. agrees, often muttering dark conspiracy theories about some unknown cabal spraying microscopic particulates from airplanes.

You cant be too careful with your precious bodily fluids.

To that end, Sen. Kevin Truenow and Rep. Kaylee Tuck have filed a bill to outlaw fluoride in public water systems, parroting the state surgeon generals claim that studies show fluoride causes brain damage in children.

Indeed, there are a few studies that do suggest an extremely high level can affect kids IQs  in Ethiopia, China, Turkey, and Pakistan, where the water is loaded with fluoride at many times whats allowed here.

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Dentists and the CDC say community fluoridation reduces cavities and other painful mouth maladies by 25%, but what do a bunch of scientists know?

Clearly not as much as RFK Jr. (him again!), who supports banning fluoride, calling it cancer-causing industrial waste.

When your kids howl about all those coming encounters with the dentist and his great big drill, tell them to turn to the Almighty.

Compulsory piety

Duval County Rep. Kimberly Daniels, via Florida House of Representatives

If Kimberly Daniels, D-Jacksonville, has her way, they wont have much choice.

Rep. Daniels has filed a bill that would require Florida schools to plaster large signs declaring In God We Trust on everything that stands still long enough: offices, gyms, libraries, cafeterias, classrooms  who knows, maybe on the back of the school mascot.

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And to remind the young uns this is a free country, the measure mandates a moment of silence (AKA prayer) and demands students sing the national anthem and say the Pledge of Allegiance every blessed day.

Remember that bill passed last year allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to work 30 hours a week during the school year? Apparently, its too soft for Sen. Jay Collins of Hillsborough County.

Collins, a former Green Beret with a chest full of medals and a head full of sawdust, wants those whiny brats to toughen up.

Ditch the mandatory breaks for teen wage slaves; lose the waivers parents must sign; and allow the little punks to work earlier than 6 a.m. and after 11.30 p.m.

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On school nights.

The ones who survive the toxic mix of mindless labor and chronic fatigue, managing to stay awake long enough to pass the SAT, and make it to college, might soon be able to pack heat on campus, just as God intended.

Sen. Randy Fine, R-Islamophobia Lakes, has authored a campus-carry bill because students need to protect themselves from Muslim terror.

Instances of Muslim terror apparently include college students occupying patches of university-maintained grass, sometimes with illicit tents, demonstrating against genocide in Gaza, and occasionally shouting stupid antisemitic slogans.

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If those are acts of terror so are the rising instances of anti-Muslim terror on campus.

Toxicity

Fine seems to imagine Jewish students will get themselves guns.

So will Muslim students.

So will depressed students, alienated students, and anyone who might, at some time, get drunk, stoned, or angry.

What could possibly go wrong?

The combustible Fine is almost certainly on his way out of the Florida Senate, headed to Congress after a special election on April Fools Day.

Nevertheless, hes determined to pass as many hate-fueled bills as possible before he moves up to apply his singular talent for destruction to the entire country.

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He was an enthusiastic sponsor of the new law taking in-state tuition away from DACA recipients and other undocumented students. Now he wants to deny them admission to most Florida colleges.

Why? Why not?

Dont pass up any opportunity to be gratuitously cruel.

In case you have been worried about our not-remotely-beleagured $12 billion+ phosphate industry, the Legislature is on the case, determined to ensure their ability to poison our environment.

A giant sinkhole opened up beneath one of Mosaics massive phosphogypsum stacks in 2016, draining polluted water on top of the stack into the aquifer. (Florida Channel screenshot)

The state has 450,000 acres of land where phosphate was, or is still being, mined.

You may have seen these places in west central Florida: huge tracts stripped of plants, animals, water, and soil, and those picturesque gypsum stacks, hundred of feet high and hundreds of acres wide.

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Over the past 30 years, the gyp stacks have leaked arsenic, heavy metals, and other carcinogens into Tampa Bay, the Alafia River, and the aquifer.

A couple of citizens who lived on former phosphate land and say they were exposed to dangerous amounts of radiation are suing fertilizer behemoth Mosaic.

Phosphate is radioactive.

But the state may make these tiresome little people go away with bills to shield mining companies, most of which can be counted on to write fat checks come campaign time.

Power and profits trump drinking water.

So much for schools, roads, parks, and police

And while our elected representatives are about the business of wrecking Florida, the governor has decided he wants to abolish property taxes.

Voila! A bill to study what that would mean has magically appeared in the Senate.

To save everybody time, heres what that would mean: less money for police and firefighters, less money for critical local services (city parks? fixing potholes? running community clinics?), far less money for schools. To begin to make up for that deep revenue hole, Florida would need to generate $43 billion.

Where are we going to get that money? Sky high sales taxes.

Sales taxes are regressive, hitting those least able to pay.

Maybe thats the idea: Demolish public education, wreck social programs, and create a permanent underclass dependent on low-wage, high-risk jobs.

Ron Who are you calling irrelevant? DeSantis is all-in. Hes now concocted a scheme he calls the DOGE-ing of Florida, set up to fire hundreds of state workers, root out what he imagines are secret practitioners of DEI, and audit (using AI) state universities lest some professor assigns a book on Jim Crow.

You think things at the DMV, the Department of Children and Families, DEP, DOT, etc., are bad now, just wait.

You think institutions of higher ed are sinking in the ratings and getting ridiculed across the country now, just wait.

You think these bills are outrageous and stupid, stay tuned.

These clowns are just getting started.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
BERLIN, March 3 (Xinhua) -- A car plowed into a crowd in downtown Mannheim, a city in southwestern Germany, on Monday, killing two people and injuring ten others, including five who sustained severe injuries, local police reported.

The incident occurred at 12:15 p.m. (1115 GMT) when a black SUV crashed into the crowd. A 40-year-old suspect was arrested following an immediate search operation, police said in a statement.

All the injured are receiving treatment at multiple hospitals, though the severity of their conditions remains undetermined. Mannheim University Hospital confirmed that three victims, including two adults and a child, are being treated as high-priority cases.

Authorities have described the crash as a targeted attack, stating that the suspect, a German national, deliberately aimed at his victims.

Reports indicate that he suffers from a psychological disorder and is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained in the crash.

Police have set up hotlines for witnesses to provide relevant information but stated that there is no indication of a second suspect. Meanwhile, they warned on the platform X about the spread of unverified claims and urged the public to rely only on official updates.

Mannheim, located in the southern German state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, has a population of over 300,000. 
DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  The pumpkin festival home to a world record sized pumpkin pie wont be returning to a village in Auglaize County this year.

The New Bremen Pumpkinfest posted an update on their facebook last week, which states that this years event is cancelled.

Unfortunately, with our current committee size, it is simply not possible to provide a successful event for our community, the post reads.

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The goal is to have enough people to help out for 2026s Pumpkinfest.

We do hope that we have a festival in the near future so that way this is something we can continue going on with because it is a great festival, says Drew McClurg, New Bremen Pumpkinfest president.

The fest made headlines 15 years ago after setting the world record for largest pumpkin pie. The pie was 20 feet in diameter and almost 3,700 pounds.

Click here to visit the festivals website.

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SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV)  More than 100 people stood together in solidarity at Clinton Square on Saturday to stress the importance of actively voicing Ukraines truth.

I just hope it wont be the last one that I organize,  said Kateryna Kolesova, a Syracuse University grad student who organized the peaceful protest.

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Before coming to the U.S. in 2022, Kolesova worked in the tech industry in Ukraine. Since arriving in the States, she has been actively involved in the local Ukrainian community, working as an employment specialist and caseworker for Ukrainian refugees. Her involvement with supporting other local Ukrainians grew as the war became worse.

Nobody believed that the war would start, she said. I didnt. Unlike my grandma, who worked in a military dormitory and she was saying like, Oh, theyre on all over borders, you have to leave. And I was like, oh my gosh, theyre just trying to scare us.

Now, just after the third anniversary of Russias unprovoked attack on Ukraine, she has a different outlook.



Ukraine rally, Kateryna Kolesova

The spark of inspiration

Kolesova spontaneously organized a peaceful rally to draw attention to the ongoing war in Ukraine and encourage the local community to take action.

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Last week she discussed with the Ukrainian Student Association about organizing an event for Feb. 24, last week, on SUs campus to draw attention to the issue. However, when there she realized that there were few members of the association and SUs has a lengthy process to be able to conduct any on-campus protest.

When the excitement about the protest at SU died down she did not stop there. She knew it had to be bigger and better than they could accomplish on campus. Kolesova then had an idea, a lightbulb moment, that would allow them to protest with more participants.

Oh, lets do it at Clinton Square, she said. I will invite all people I know and lets just collectively do this.

So, they came ready with their posters and speakers, passionate to share their message. But what Kolesova did not expect to see was the mass amount of people who showed up in support.

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There were way more people than I expected, said Kolesova. It was more than 100 people and some veterans came and even some senators left their message. So, I think it was a success.

Syracuse has a large Ukrainian population. It is important to recognize that while physical combat may be happening overseas, Ukrainians here are combatting their own troubles every day.

My house is on the edge of the street and the others dont interest me, she said. And this is like I said, my interests are the most important ones mentality has proved that its not a very good way of living.

Although the saying highlights how ignorance can lead to the lack of empathy others have towards those facing challenges Kolesova sees the positivity and says that we live in a very interconnected world.

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And though people speak different languages, have different traditions, culture, it doesnt affect them. We are all learning about each other and seeing that we have more in common. Every country is so dependent on each other. So, whats happening in one country can affect deeply the other country.

To her, it is vital that what is happening in Ukraine or whats happening in every country should be interesting for people because at some point it can touch them.

Kolesova wants more people to be aware of Russias aggressive nature.

Russia is a bully and will continue to expand and threaten other countries if not stopped, she said.

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To recognize this she says its important for the local community to realize the severity of the situation by actively supporting Ukraine, not just with words but with actions.

There is no chance that the next country wont be Poland. And those Baltic countries, those post-Soviet countries, they understand that thats why they support Ukraine so much, she said. Thats why Finland joined NATO because they know whats going to happen. So I know America is far from Russia, but not that far. All the west coast of the U.S. is not that far from Russia to be honest, she said.

As Kolesova continues her stand for her country she often reflects on the grief she feels in the face of her fight.

We are fighting just for freedom, she said. And yes, its not easy to just move on  you are constantly a bit sad to say the least.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSYR.
Filip Gustavsson pitched a 28-save shutout and Frederick Gaudreau scored a second-period goal as the Minnesota Wild eked out a 1-0 victory over the Boston Bruins Sunday afternoon at Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minn., to snap a three-game skid.

Gaudreau scored 5 minutes, 1 second into the second period to give the Wild (35-22-4) the 1-0 lead, which they held onto the rest of the way. The Bruins (28-26-8) outshot the Wild 28-22, but they couldn't get any shots past Gustavsson.

Minnesota goal!



Scored by Frederick Gaudreau with 14:59 remaining in the 2nd period.



Assisted by Marcus Johansson and Mats Zuccarello.



Minnesota: 1

Boston: 0#BOSvsMIN #mnwild #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/L2kj3m3EFP  NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) March 2, 2025

Jeremy Swayman made 21 saves on 22 shots for the Bruins.

The Wild return to action Tuesday night when they visit the Seattle Kraken for a 9 p.m. puck drop.
In its investigation, the team of the Finnish public broadcaster Yle showed how Russia has moved abroad the activities of companies that manage the fleet of tankers transporting Russian oil. One of the largest centres for these cover companies is Dubai.

Source: Yle, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The editorial team found out that many of the companies operating the so-called shadow fleet of tankers transporting Russian oil in violation of Western sanctions are registered in Dubai.

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The journalists found that the registration address of about 60 such shell companies is the same elite Meydan Hotel in Dubai. It turned out to be a "virtual office" for thousands of companies registered at this address, but only on paper. The Eagle S tanker, suspected of damaging submarine cables in the Gulf of Finland on 25 December 2024, is also registered to such a company.

Last week, the court lifted Eagle S's arrest due to the lack of sufficient grounds to extend it.

In a comment on the matter, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen acknowledged that the complicated ownership structure of shadow tankers carrying Russian oil is a big problem.

"If, for example, a serious oil spill occurs in the Baltic Sea, it is unclear whether anyone will be held accountable," she said.

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She added that the EU understands the problem and is looking for ways to make sanctions against Russia's oil sector more effective. One way could be to impose sanctions on companies that operate such tankers; currently, the lists mostly include ships.

Elina Valtonen believes that one challenge to the effectiveness of sanctions against Russia is that many countries do not comply with them, and Western countries cannot do much to influence this.

The article also reiterates that several EU countries, such as Hungary, Slovakia and Czechia, continue to buy oil from Russia, and the shadow fleet helps Russia sell oil to third countries, bypassing the G7 price ceiling.

In addition, large volumes of Russian oil may eventually reach the EU via bypass routes. For example, a shadow tanker carries oil from Russia and unloads it in India, where the cargo is processed into oil products that are then "bleached" and transported to Europe.

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Background:

On 24 February, the EU added several dozen more vessels to the list of sanctioned vessels in the latest package of sanctions.

In addition, the EU Council has established two new criteria that will allow the EU to impose restrictive measures on individuals and legal entities that own or operate vessels of Russia's shadow fleet and those that support or benefit from Russia's military-industrial complex.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
RAYMOND, Miss. (WJTV)  Crews responded to a fire at a dorm on the Raymond campus of Hinds Community College (HCC) on Sunday, March 2.

The fire occurred at Davis Hall, a womens residence hall. According to HCC officials, a construction crew was working on the roof of the five-story building when the fire started in an unused dryer vent on the second floor, which was evacuated.

Mississippi declares March wildfire prevention month, urges fire safety

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No injuries were reported. Officials said Davis Hall had minor water and smoke damage inside.

All students are expected to be allowed back into the residence hall late Sunday, except those on the second floor. The 44 affected students are being temporarily relocated and are scheduled to return to Davis within 24 hours.

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Local emergency services in Ufa, in Russia's Bashkortostan republic, reported a fire at one of the country's largest oil refineries, with one Ukrainian official describing the incident as a drone attack.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations of Bashkortostan reported a fire on the territory of the Ufa oil refinery in the early hours of Monday morning, without specifying the cause. There were no reports of casualties, and the ministry said around seven hours later that the blaze had been extinguished.

Russia's Defense Ministry reported the downing of seven Ukrainian drones overnight -- three over the Lipetsk region, two over the Rostov region and two over the Belgorod region -- but made no reference to any attack in Ufa.

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Andriy Kovalenko, the head of the Counter-Disinformation Center operating as part of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, said on Telegram that "unknown UAVs attacked the Ufa refinery." ABC News could not immediately verify the claim.

PHOTO: This file photo shows Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Col. Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi at an exhibition of new Ukrainian-made drones in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Dec. 6, 2024. (Valentyn Ogirenko/Reuters)

MORE: Zelenskyy thanks US for support after week of tough diplomacy, urges 'real peace'

Kovalenko described the facility as "one of the largest" in Russia, with a capacity of around 20 million tons of oil annually. "The refinery is of strategic importance for the Russian army, as it is part of the group of enterprises that provide fuel to the armed forces," Kovalenko wrote.

"Its products include aviation fuel, diesel fuel for military equipment and lubricants necessary for the operation of armored vehicles, aviation and road transport," he added.

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Russia, meanwhile, continued its nightly tempo of cross-border drone strikes. Ukraine's air force reported that Russia launched 83 attack drones into the country, 46 of which were shot down and 31 lost in flight.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a statement to social media, "Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace. We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror."

PHOTO: Firefighters work at a site of an apartment building hit by a Russian drone strike in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on March 2, 2025. (Sofiia Gatilova/Reuters)

"Those who seek negotiations do not deliberately strike civilians with ballistic missiles," Zelenskyy added, referring to Moscow's regular use of missile strikes across the country.

"To force Russia to stop its attacks, we need greater collective strength from the world," Zelenskyy said. "Strengthening our air defense, supporting our army, and ensuring effective security guarantees that will make the return of Russian aggression impossible -- this is what we must focus on."

Fire erupts at key oil facility deep inside Russia amid drone exchange with Ukraine originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Sen. Tina Smith said an "unjustly fired" northern Minnesota park ranger will be her guest at President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday.

Kate Severson, a federal park ranger at Voyageurs National Park, was among thousands of federal workers to be fired abruptly last month as billionaire Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) drive the Trump Administration's widespread push to dramatically shrink the federal government.

In a statement Monday, Smith said park rangers like Severson keep visitors safe in some of Minnesota's "most wild and extreme areas."

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"The story that Kate and Voyageurs National Park represent is one of absolute chaos for Americans since Donald Trump has taken office  he unilaterally appointed Elon Musk to one of the most powerful positions in the government without oversight," Smith stated. "Im glad she has the opportunity to share her story and Im grateful to have her by my side at this Address to Congress.

Kate Severson via Sen. Tina Smith on X.

In an interview with the Minnesota Star Tribune, Severson said she will appeal her firing.

"The awful thing is our termination letters say it was because of performance [and] not meeting performance needs. This obviously isnt the reason," Severson told the newspaper.

In a statement provided by Smith's office, Severson called the recent firings a "betrayal" of the newest cohort of Park Service employees that weakens America's ability to protect parks.

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"I do not for one second believe these cuts were made to save the taxpayers money," Severson stated. "Parks have well-documented benefits to the economy. Instead, these cuts were designed to make government agencies vulnerable, strip away the protections and services in place for the public good, and open the way for those looking to exploit our resources.
After a rash of wildfires broke out over the weekend, scorching thousands of acres in South and North Carolina, firefighters on Monday reported making significant progress in extinguishing the blazes that prompted mass evacuations and threatened numerous homes, officials said.

At one point on Saturday and into Sunday, 175 wildfires erupted in South and North Carolina, fueled by high winds and extremely dry conditions, officials said. The fires prompted South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency on Sunday and issue a statewide burning ban.

On Monday, 10 new fires broke out, but were considered "manageable" by the South Carolina Forestry Commission, which said firefighters had either extinguished or contained most of the fires.

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The largest fire to break out over the weekend was in the Carolina Forest in Horry County. As of Monday, the fire had burned over 2,000 acres and threatened the communities of Walkers Woods and Avalon, while spreading to the edge of Myrtle Beach, according to the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

PHOTO: Smoke rises from a wildfire in the Carolina Forest in Horry County, South Carolina, Mar. 1, 2025. (Brandon Runnells)

The Carolina Forest fire, which erupted Saturday amid wind gusts of 40 mph, was 30% contained on Monday, the commission said.

More than 400 firefighters -- aided by firefighting aircraft, including two South Carolina National Guard helicopter crews making water drops -- prevented the fire from spreading to homes in the area, officials said. While some homes were damaged, none have been destroyed, officials said.

No injuries were reported from any of the blazes.

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Barbara and Vince Giunta of Myrtle Beach, whose home abuts the Carolina Forest, said the fire spread to near their property line on Saturday.

"Everything was on fire. It was bad. Very, very bad," Barbara Giunta told ABC News.

MORE: Evacuations ordered as 175 wildfires erupt across South and North Carolina

Vince Giunta said at one point on Saturday he looked out his kitchen window "and you could see the flames as high as the trees."

The cause of the Carolina Forest fire remained under investigation.

The second biggest South Carolina wildfire ignited Saturday in Georgetown County, about 35 miles south of Myrtle Beach, burned roughly 800 acres and caused evacuations in the town of Prince George. The South Carolina Forestry Commission said Monday that the fire had been contained.

PHOTO: Smoke rises from a wildfire in the Carolina Forest in Horry County, South Carolina, Mar. 1, 2025. (Jason Jawz)

In North Carolina, fire crews continued to battle a blaze near the town of Tryon, close to the South Carolina border, according to the Saluda Fire and Rescue Department. On Monday, the fire was 30% contained after burning 481 acres, officials said.

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Gusty winds are expected to the Carolinas on Tuesday with gusts ranging from 15 to 25 mph. A storm system is heading to the East Coast and is expected to bring much-needed rain to the Carolinas on Wednesday, but could also produce damaging winds and tornadoes.

The National Weather Service said Monday that elevated fire danger conditions persist in the Carolinas and much of the South with extremely dry conditions and with minimum relative humidity of 15% to 25% on Monday afternoon.

MORE: Fired Forest Service, Park Service workers say cuts will be felt on fire lines

"While winds are expected to be light and temperatures still on the cool side of normal, dry vegetation due to lack of recent rainfall combined with the dry air will once again result in increased wildfire danger in northeast Georgia, Upstate South Carolina and western North Carolina," the NWS said.

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Most of South Carolina is abnormally dry or under moderate drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. About 1.2 million residents of the state live in areas experiencing drought, according to the Drought Monitor.

South Carolina only received about 1.87 inches of rain in January, which is below normal, officials said.

MORE: Former Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley appeals her dismissal over deadly fires

According to the Drought Monitor, about 46% of North Carolina is experiencing abnormally dry conditions and 39% of the state is under moderate drought conditions. North Carolina received about 1.62 inches of rain in January, the seventh-driest January on record, according to the Drought Monitor.

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U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins said in a statement Monday that U.S. Forest Service firefighters helped battle the Carolina fires over the weekend.

"The brave men and women of the U.S. Forest Service began responding immediately to the fires in the Carolinas," said Rollins, whose agency includes the U.S. Forest Service. "We will ensure they have the resources, personnel and support they need to swiftly put out the fires."

U.S. Forest Service officials said in a statement that the dry conditions and downed timber from past storms have "elevated wildfire risk" in the Carolinas.

Firefighters gaining upper hand after more than 175 fires erupt in the Carolinas originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
UNITED NATIONS, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Flour and vegetable prices have increased more than 100-fold in the Gaza Strip and essential living materials await delivery following Israel's closure of the crossings into the enclave, UN humanitarians said on Monday.

"The Kerem Shalom, Erez and Zikim crossings have been closed for cargo," the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said. "This means that vital humanitarian assistance, including thousands of tents, remains undelivered."

OCHA said its partners were assessing available stocks within the Gaza Strip.

Israel has blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza since early Sunday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the measure was taken to pressure Hamas in accepting a new proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire and hostage release deal, which he said was put forth by the United States.

Tom Fletcher, the UN emergency relief coordinator, said on social media Sunday that Israel's decision to halt aid into Gaza is "indeed alarming."

"International humanitarian law is clear: we must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid," he said. "We need to get aid in and the hostages out."

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to make every effort to prevent a return to the hostilities in Gaza, and called for humanitarian aid to flow back into Gaza immediately and for the release of all hostages, his spokesman said at the daily briefing.

The UN Children's Fund also warned that the stoppage of aid deliveries into Gaza will quickly lead to devastating consequences for children and families who are struggling to survive. 
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)  The Terre Haute Fire Department responded to an intentionally set fire at a vacant home Sunday night, according to THFD Captain Nick Arnold.

At 11:28 p.m. Sunday, THFD was dispatched to a home at 925 South 10th Street for a residential structure fire. Arnold said that smoke and flames were showing upon THFDs arrival.

Terre Haute Fire Deparment battles RV fire

The home was vacant, and no other structure was affected by the fire, according to Arnold.

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At this time, it is unknown how the fire was started. WTWO/WAWV will update you online and on-air as soon as more information becomes available.

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Firefighters across the Carolinas are urging residents to be aware of the heightened wildfire risk due to dry conditions, high winds, and warm temperatures.

Wildfires prompt evacuations across the Carolinas over the weekend

Over the weekend, dozens of fires broke out in the district, exacerbated by extreme weather conditions. Although winds have calmed and temperatures have cooled, the fire risk remains high until significant rainfall occurs. According to the drought monitor, most of the piedmont is currently in the lowest drought stage.

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We probably had 25 fires in our district. Sunday we had another 15 or so and Saturday we had another 20 fires in our district as well, said Matt Barker, the District Forester in Mount Holly.

Barker explained the 12th district, which includes nine counties around the Charlotte metro area, is just entering the spring fire season, which is typically marked by increased fire activity until vegetation starts to grow and replace the dry forests and grass-cover with green.

Debris from Hurricane Helene is also contributing to the risk, as fallen trees create obstacles that rangers must navigate carefully.

Even though some of the larger Helene debris may not have dried out enough to contribute to the fire intensity, some of it has and its certainly an obstacle, Barker said. It takes more time scouting, working around that debris, identifying where it is and then taking extra precautions and working around it.

The North Carolina Forest Service employs prescribed burns to manage potential fire fuel, conducting them under controlled conditions to prevent wildfires from spreading. Barker emphasized that human activity, such as burning yard debris and machine use, is a major cause of wildfires in North Carolina.

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Residents are advised to heed fire warnings and avoid activities that could ignite fires, as even a small spark can lead to a significant blaze.

VIDEO: Wildfires prompt evacuations across the Carolinas
Lieutenant Bill Henry, the first amputee firefighter in the United States, retired today after 25 years of service with Volusia County Fire Rescue.

Henry joined Volusia County Fire Rescue as a volunteer in 1993 and was hired as a firefighter and emergency medical technician in 1999. The following year, he lost his left leg below the knee in a motorcycle accident and was treated by fellow firefighters from his station.

Bill Henry Served Volusia County Fire Rescue for 25 Years

Henry was later fitted with an artificial limb, becoming Americas first amputee firefighter.

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Photos show dozens of fellow firefighters gathered to wish him well at Fire Station 42 in DeLand, where he has been stationed for the past five years.

I knew I could come back and do my job, and no one has doubted me, Henry said. The support I received from Volusia County and Fire Rescue is second to none. Im blessed to have this family.

Bill Henry Served Volusia County Fire Rescue for 25 Years

His only accommodation was a specialized boot that fits over his prosthesis.

Its great to see him overcome adversity, said Fire Chief Joe King. Hes always worked hard and has mentored many new firefighters.

Henry has helped and inspired other amputees, including two United Kingdom and Illinois firefighters, who met with him to receive tips and inspiration.

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The lieutenant is known for his resilience and dedication. Henry has broken barriers in the fire service, inspiring future generations and paving the way for greater inclusivity.

Bill Henry Served Volusia County Fire Rescue for 25 Years

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
GREENWOOD, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A Hackett man accused of sexually assaulting a minor at a Greenwood daycare has had one of two lawsuits he is named in resolved, according to court records.

Jamie Speaks, 56, was arrested by Greenwood police on July 11, 2024, on a second-degree sexual assault charge. He has pleaded not guilty.

Speaks is a level-two sex offender, according to the Arkansas Crime Information Centers Sex Offender Registry database.

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He is accused of sexually assaulting a minor when they were two years old.

Speaks was named in two civil lawsuits, in addition to his criminal case.

Greenwood police arrest sex offender accused of sexually assaulting minor at daycare

The lawsuits, filed in December 2023 and January 2024, accuse Miss Tinas Preschool in Greenwood of knowingly allowing a convicted child predator to be around children at the school, which allegedly led to long-term sexual abuse.

Speaks is accused of forcefully and intentionally making harmful physical sexual contact with minors who were at Miss Tinas.

The lawsuits say Speaks was charged in 1993 with molesting a seven-year-old who was in the care of him and his wife at their at-home daycare. His wife closed the daycare in 1994 after the incident and was later hired at Miss Tinas, according to the lawsuit.

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Tina Skaggs, the owner of the preschool, allegedly knew of Speaks criminal history when she hired his wife and allowed him to spend time at the preschool despite his convictions and sex offender status.

In the lawsuits, Skaggs denies the assertion that Speaks was frequently and consistently present during the time of his wifes employment at the preschool. She also denies being aware that Speaks was left unsupervised with children and taking them into the bathroom.

An order to dismiss the January 2024 lawsuit was filed in January. A five-day jury trial had been set to begin in September 2025.

Sex offender pleads not guilty to sexually assaulting minor at Greenwood daycare

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Upon the Court having been advised that the instant case has fully and completely been resolved, this case is hereby dismissed with prejudice in its entirety, the order said.

The second lawsuit is set to go to trial in August.

Speaks is being held in the Sebastian County Detention Center on a $100,000 bond. His criminal trial is scheduled to begin on May 19.

He has been ordered to have no contact with the alleged victim or their family, if released on bond.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Last week, California-based space company AstroForge launched what it claimed was the first "commercial deep space mission in history."

The company's plan was to send its washing machine-sized spacecraft, dubbed Odin, to visit an asteroid millions of miles from Earth and scout it as a potential mining site.

But mere hours after the spacecraft lifted off atop a SpaceX rocket last week  alongside Intuitive Machines' Athena lunar lander  the AstroForge team encountered issues while trying to communicate with the probe.

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Then, less than 24 hours following launch, the team lost contact entirely.

"I think we all know the hope is fading as we continue the mission," AstroForge founder Matt Gialich admitted in an update on X-formerly-Twitter over the weekend, as flagged by Space.com. "So we're going to keep our head up. We're going to keep trying over the weekend, and we'll see how far we get."

A number of space companies have raised huge amounts of funds with the promise of turning errant space rocks into a lucrative source of money. But many have failed to live up to that promise, folding before even venturing into space.

As the New York Times reports, AstroForge did initially make headway, sending a demonstration satellite into orbit in 2023.

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Its followup Odin mission, though, is looking rough.

Odin made it over 186,000 miles away from home. The spacecraft did manage to unfold its solar panels and likely started charging, according to the company.

But then the company ran into some "massive issues," as Gialich wrote in an extremely detailed update posted on AstroForge's website on Saturday.

The team found that the polarization on Odin's antennas was "wrong" meaning that "both uplink and downlink for the first 4 hours of the mission did not work."

"No commands were getting through, and also, no data was getting down," Gialich wrote. Despite sending a number of commands, "we received nothing in return."

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In the company's X update, Gialich said that the spacecraft may be tumbling at a "really, really slow speed."

The last contact the team received from Odin was 20 hours after liftoff. But the team isn't giving up yet.

"We have a plan over the weekend, and there is still a chance that we are going to be able to recover the vehicle," the founder said. "We do think we have some theories on what's going on, and if one of them is true, there is still a recovery path."

Beyond Odin, AstroForge is already eyeing an asteroid landing mission, dubbed Vestri, despite the major challenges with its current probe.

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"We have probably the best group of investors in the world. A lot of them have doubled down on this company," Gialich said. "So regardless of the outcome of Odin, regardless if we ever talk to it again or we don't, we're going to roll these findings into the next mission."

More on mining asteroids: Asteroid Mining Startup About to Launch First Mission
WACO, Tx.  A United Airlines jet from Springfield made an emergency landing on Sunday after experiencing turbulence injuring five passengers.

According to FOX 2 affiliate station KOLR, local officials said no one suffered from life-threatening injuries and were taken to the hospital for treatment after making an emergency landing in Waco, Texas.

Thunderstorms with gusty winds expected Tuesday

SkyWest 5690, operating as United Express took off from Springfield seven minutes ahead of schedule at 4:48 p.m. before landing one hour and 40 minutes later at Waco National Airport at 6:28 p.m., according to FlightAware.

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The flight was originally scheduled to land at Houston-Bush International Airport 32 minutes later.

There were 29 passengers on the plane with three crew members. KOLR said law enforcement was still on the scene two hours after the emergency landing.

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LAKE COUNTY, Ohio (WJW)  The Grand Rivers water level has receded, but large ice chunks and debris remain around it, Fairport Harbors fire chief Bob Lloyd said in a press release.

While the flood advisory was lifted in Fairport Harbor, places like Grand River Landing Lake Metropark remain closed because of the amount of ice in the park.

Cavs hold off Blazers 133-129 in OT for 10th straight win, 50th overall

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There is still an ice jam in the Grand River that can be seen in the village of Grand River near several marinas and homes.

Lake County officials have been in contact with the United States Coast Guard to see about getting an ice breaker to free up the ice that is stuck.

Many residents have taken time to stop and see the spectacle that is the large ice chunks that have pushed off the banks of the river, but everyone is still encouraged to stay off of the river and to remain vigilant.

Overjoyed: Mayfield Heights police buy 12-year-old scam victim guitar

Lake County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service, along with first responders, will continue to monitor conditions along the Grand River.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
ORANGE PARK, Fla. (WFLA)  A Florida man is accused of beating a girl with a wire and forcing his children to kill their teacup pig.

Glen Byrd, 35, of Orange Park was arrested on Feb. 15 for the abuse that occurred in October and November of 2024, court records say.

Polk County woman dies after reports of her sitting, standing in the middle of a busy highway

An arrest warrant obtained by Action News Jax said Byrd hit a girl with a detached dryer cable after getting angry at spilled chips on the kitchen table. The victim told officials he also dumped juice on her and her siblings and used a hammer to shatter a glass table.

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In Byrds arrest warrant, authorities said the childs physical injuries and testimony were sufficient enough to charge him with child abuse.

A second warrant from October 2024 said there was substantial evidence to prove Byrd encouraged and orchestrated the killing of a pet pig.

Man accused of stabbing woman in neck with scissors, chucking liquor bottle at her face at Publix

Action News Jax reported that Byrd encouraged the children to strike the familys pet pig, with a hammer, until it stopped moving.

After the pig died, Byrd allegedly told his 17-year-old stepson to dump the teacup pig into the neighborhood retention pond. The teen told officials Byrd wanted to pet dead but wanted the child to do it for him, the report said.

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The affidavit showed that Byrd was ordered not to have contact with the children or own any pets.

Byrd was arrested on charges of child abuse without great bodily harm and aggravated animal cruelty with excessive pain or death.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
DUBAI, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Emirates Airline of the United Arab Emirates announced Monday to launch daily direct flights between Dubai and Shenzhen from July 1, becoming the first Middle Eastern carrier to operate a daily flight to the southern Chinese city.

According to the airline's media center, flight EK328 will depart Dubai at 10:05 a.m. local time and arrive in Shenzhen at 10:00 p.m., while EK329 will leave Shenzhen at 11:55 p.m., landing in Dubai at 3:40 a.m. Shenzhen will also be the first Chinese destination to feature Emirates' retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER.

Emirates Airline, which established direct air connectivity between Dubai and China in 2002, currently operates flights to Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou.

Dubai saw 824,000 Chinese visitors in 2024, a 31 percent year-on-year increase.

Adnan Kazim, Emirates Airline's deputy president and chief commercial officer, highlighted the airline's commitment to strengthening business and tourism ties with China.

"Our expansion into Shenzhen opens new doors for business and economic exchange between this technological powerhouse and global markets," Kazim said, adding that he hoped the route would help to foster cultural bonds and unlock future economic potential. 
The big story: Two weeks have passed since the U.S. Department of Education issued a dear colleague letter telling school systems to get rid of race-based decision making or face a loss of federal money.

Districts across Florida have been taking steps to adhere to the advice.

Collier County officials, for instance, issued a statement saying they would work actively to prevent any form of discrimination. It stressed that it never had any office or team assigned to oversee diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives. Read more from the Naples Daily News.

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The Lee County school district announced it would get rid of its DEI office and would review all its policies and procedures, the Fort Myers News-Press reports.

Many districts and the state education department said the federal guidance had little effect for them, as they already had implemented state law requiring the same rules.

That didnt stop education commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. from joining leaders from 11 other states in urging U.S. education secretary nominee Linda McMahon to stop sending dear colleague letters aimed at pushing states to follow the White Houses priorities. Read more from The 74.

Hot topics

Campus speech: An appearance at Florida State University by Turning Point founder Charlie Kirk drew fans and protesters, the Tallahassee Democrat reports.

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Charter schools: The Sarasota County school district is reviewing its working relationship with charter schools as their number grows, the Herald-Tribune reports.

Discipline: The Brevard County school district is reconsidering its model for handling student expulsions, Florida Today reports.

Financial aid: Santa Fe College has made strides toward overcoming its financial aid distribution problems after months of delay, WUFT reports.

Legislation: Two Republican lawmakers have proposed putting the selection of university presidents back in full public view, Florida Politics reports.  A state senator has filed a bill that would set new parameters for how schools deal with teachers who get arrested, including a timeline for informing parents, WJXT reports.

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School consolidation: Some Highlands County parents are upset with the districts plan to merge Lake Placid middle and high schools, saying they havent been provided adequate information or time for feedback, Highlands News-Sun reports.

School cameras: The city of Palm Bay has suspended enforcement of school speed zone violations amid questions of glitches in the camera system, WKMG reports.  Miami-Dade County drivers have complained that they are wrongly receiving citations accusing them of illegally passing school buses, the Miami Herald reports. They blame the company monitoring the cameras attached to buses.

Security: A Manatee County mom wants justice for her son, who she says was attacked at school, WWSB reports.

Sex education: The Broward County school districts sex education curriculum remains held up by the Florida Department of Education, the Sun-Sentinel reports.

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State of the schools: Volusia County superintendent Carmen Balgobin offered her assessment of where the district has been and where its headed, the Daytona Beach News-Journal reports.

Teacher hiring: The Bay County school district is negotiating with a cultural exchange program to bring foreign teachers to the district, WJHG reports.

Textbook selection: A state appeals court has ruled the Indian River County school district violated the states open records law when selecting social studies textbooks in 2016, TC Palm reports.

From the police blotter ... A Broward County high school student was arrested on allegations of writing a threat of violence on the wall of the schools bathroom, WSVN reports.

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Today in Tallahassee ... The Senate Education Prek-12 Committee takes up three bills when it meets at 3:30 p.m. The 2025 legislative session officially begins tomorrow.

Dont miss a story. Heres the link to Fridays roundup.

Before you go ... Shaggy and Sting will appear together later this month at the Reggae Rise Up Florida Festival in St. Petersburg. Heres a preview.
TALLAHASSEE  The 2023 Florida Legislature  in what was dubbed the Session of the Century  set a high-water mark for conservative cooperation, with the Republican majority passing several signature measures including universal school vouchers, a near-total ban on abortion and allowing people to carry concealed weapons without a permit.

We committed to collaboration over competition, Paul Renner, who was speaker of the House during that session, said at a meeting of the Capital Tiger Bay Club in December of 2023.

Flash forward to 2025 and uncertainty fills the air as the next regular 60-day session of the Legislature is to begin Tuesday. After starting the year with a bruising battle between legislative leaders and Gov. Ron DeSantis  all of them Republicans  over whose immigration plan was going to go forward, there are cracks in the once united front. The Legislature even threw in an override of a governors budget veto from 2024 as if to highlight its newfound independence.

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Despite later embracing a compromise immigration bill, the governor is still at odds with legislative leaders who intend to continue asserting their own power while also signaling their fealty to President Donald Trump.

We can expect a very Trumpy session, said Bob Jarvis, a NOVA Southeastern University law professor whose areas of interest include Florida politics and constitutional law. All the Republicans will be trying to outdo each other to satisfy Trump and own the libs.

Both DeSantis and lawmakers, for example, have proposed creating a Florida version of Trumps Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, and renaming the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America, as Trump did via executive order, in state laws and on official maps.

Other bills that reflect the interests of the Trump administration include one banning fluoride from municipal water supplies and another renaming the iconic Tamiami Trail the Gulf of America Trail.

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All these are attempts to curry favor with the Trump administration, House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell of Tampa said.

That could also lead to some extreme bills that veer toward culture wars, said the Democratic leader, whose party remains vastly outnumbered. Republicans have a supermajority in both chambers, 86-33 in the House and 28-11 in the Senate.

Ahead of the session, Republican lawmakers also filed bills to ban diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in local governments and to prohibit the display of LGBTQ or Palestinian flags on government property.

But Floridians want the Legislature to engage in robust conversations about the states property insurance crisis, affordable housing and the ongoing teacher shortage, Driskell said.

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At least one bill filed ahead of session addresses the high cost of homeowner premiums, including requiring more transparency around rate increases, speeding up the claims process and reversing some past reforms, including a limit on attorneys fees.

Residents also are worried that the decisions being made in Washington D.C. will impact the cost of living and access to healthcare and other services here in Florida, Driskell added.

Jarvis agreed that some of the states most-pressing issues seem to be overlooked.

The insurance industry is still a mess. Hurricanes are still dangerous.. Condominium owners are pushing back against rising costs and special assessments and new safety regulations, he said.

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House Speaker Danny Perez of Miami has said housing affordability and trimming budget fat are among his top priorities, along with hurricane recovery and child welfare.

We should be the House of Action, Perez said in November when he took over as speaker. We should pass laws that really matter to the lives of real people facing real problems.

Senate President Ben Albritton, who comes from a farming family, has made reviving rural economies a signature issue with a proposed $197 million stimulus package.

I think broadly the legislature and governor will still work together on a number of issues, but he wont get everything he wants, said Aubrey Jewett, political science professor at the University of Central Florida.

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Legislative priorities will take more precedence than in past sessions with DeSantis as governor, he predicted. And he said there will not likely be a repeat of the public event several ears ago when DeSantis laughed and joked as he vetoed projects of the House Speaker and Senate President  while they stood on stage behind him.

The Legislature needed to stand up and act as an independent branch, Jewett said. Maybe the governor has learned if he pushes too far there will be pushback.

Still, a big majority in the Legislature are conservative Republicans and so is DeSantis, and they are more likely to agree than disagree on many issues, he added.

There could be agreement on proposals to restrict citizen-led ballot initiatives, to increase homestead exemptions to lower property tax bills and even to reverse age restrictions for buying rifles put in place after the shooting massacre at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018.

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The legislature also will have more immigration-related bills to consider, such as a bipartisan bill to require all companies to use E-Verify to check the immigration status of new hires. Currently, companies with fewer than 25 employees are exempt.

Still, Jarvis said, there is always a danger in predicting legislative outcomes. Every year hundreds of bills are introduced and only 10% or so make it to the finish line.

Most are going nowhere, he said.
On a February evening, five Delray Beach city commissioners listened intently from the dais as Floridas Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo urged against adding fluoride to their city water. Ladapo provided data and referred to studies to convince the commissioners, warning that adding fluoride to the water reduces childrens IQ and increases the potential for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Its like playing with fire to keep using it, he told them.

As Ladapo road-trips across the state, he often persuades cities to stop adding fluoride to their water. On that night in Delray, though, he failed. Commissioners finished their debate with a vote to continue the citys decades-long practice of adding fluoride to its drinking water.

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Ladapos defeat did not deter him. The next stops on his anti-fluoridation tour included Lee and Bartow counties. In March, he may be headed to Miami-Dade for a second shot at convincing officials to end community fluoridation.

Almost all water contains some naturally occurring fluoride, but usually at levels too low to prevent cavities. For nearly 80 years, local governments have been adding fluoride to water supplies to prevent tooth decay. Recently, though, fluoridation has become a topic of debate in Florida, with dental and pediatric associations facing off against politicians and activists.

In November, Ladapo held a news conference and released guidance for government leaders to end water fluoridation because of the risk it poses. His stance mirrors that taken by President Donald Trumps HHS pick, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who posted on social media in November that fluoride is linked to various health problems. Since then, about a dozen Florida municipalities, including Stuart, Palm Bay and Naples, have voted to discontinue adding fluoride to their water.

Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties add fluoride to their county water systems. Over the last decade, all three have had comparatively low rates of emergency department visits for dental conditions. The findings reflect a statewide trend, according to a South Florida Sun Sentinel analysis of state health data.

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The analysis shows that over the last decade, Florida counties in which 90% or more of their residents received fluoridated drinking water have had lower average rates of hospital ED visits for dental conditions than those that don't add fluoride.

Counties like Putnam and Columbia, in which less than 10% of their residents received fluoridated drinking water, saw dental ER rates more than twice those of South Florida counties. While water fluoridation may not be the only factor involved, the data indicates it does play a role in dental issues.

Public health experts have emphasized that the standard amount added, 0.7 milligrams of fluoride per liter of water, is not dangerous and serves an important purpose.

"If you don't add fluoride, you will see a definite increase in the number of cavities, especially in low-income areas where it's more difficult to see a dentist and get fluoride treatments," said Jeff Ottley, president of the Florida Dental Association and a family dentist in Milton.

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Both sides of the debate use studies to make their arguments.

Why add fluoride?

The Florida Dental Association has strongly endorsed fluoridation, pointing to research supporting the assertion that brushing with fluoride toothpaste alone is insufficient to curb tooth decay.

"Adding optimal amounts of fluoride into our community water supplies can prevent at least 25% of tooth decay in children and adults, reducing the need for costly dental treatments," the association said in a statement released after Ladapo held a news conference in November and called fluoridation "public health malpractice."

Ottley says children and seniors will suffer in cities or counties that stop adding it to their water.

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"As you get older and take multiple medications, they tend to cause dry mouth," Ottley said. "Without the added fluoride in the water, there is little opportunity for fluoride to get on the surfaces that are very susceptible to cavities. Toothpaste doesn't stick to root surfaces as well. It's gone after you brush, whereas drinking water all day can keep a steady level of fluoride on the surface."

With children, Ottley says, fluoride in the water helps to strengthen their developing teeth enamel, making them more resistant to cavities.

Florida pediatricians also support adding fluoride.

The Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics believes this practice is critical to ensuring the health of children, especially those in poor communities.

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"Dental caries (tooth cavity) is the most common chronic disease in childhood and disproportionally affects children of lower socioeconomic status who are less likely to have access to dental care," the pediatric academy said in a news release.

The pediatricians say research backs up the fact that the level of fluoride in Florida's drinking water is at the level where it doesn't cause harm. "Over 3,000 studies from the U.S. and abroad are available addressing the safety and efficacy of fluoridating the water supply."

Dr. Johnny Johnson, a retired Florida dentist and president of the American Fluoridation Society, said studies conducted in two locations  Juneau, Alaska, and Alberta, Canada  found that when fluoride was removed, the rates of cavities increased dramatically in children.

"Fluoride in toothpaste alone is not enough, he said. "They work together."

The argument against fluoride

Ladapo points to research that fluoride is toxic, and he has already helped persuade at least 13 municipalities to stop fluoridating their water.

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Ashley Malin, assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Florida, has been researching the health impacts of fluoride exposure since 2013. Her most recent study examined fluoride concentration in the urine of pregnant, low-income Hispanic women in Los Angeles. Her research found that higher fluoride levels in pregnant women were linked to increased odds of their children exhibiting neurobehavioral problems such as anxiety, depression and symptoms of autism at age 3.

Community drinking water is not the only source of fluoride exposure, but it is the main source for adults in the United States, Malin said, adding that fluoride also is ingested through food and drinks such as black tea, canned soup and condiments and through fluoride-heavy pesticides on produce. Alongside the drinking water, fluoride accumulates until dangerous levels are present in the human body.

What we found was that the level was 1.2 milligrams (of fluoride) per liter in the pregnant women's urine that was associated with nearly double the odds of the children having clinically relevant neurobehavioral problems.

Malins study was the first United States sample to research early-life fluoride exposure and neurobehavioral outcomes. Studies in Mexico and Canada examined neurodevelopmental outcomes in young children, including a negative effect on IQ. Those studies found that each 0.5 milligram per liter increase in fluoride was associated with about a two-and-a-half point IQ reduction.

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According to Malin, the reduction in IQ points caused by fluoride could have a significant effect on a population's intelligence over time.

The additives used for community fluoridation are byproducts of phosphate fertilizer production.

Although fluoride does naturally occur, what we're getting in the community drinking water is quite different than that. I would liken those additives more so to chemical mixtures that also contain fluoride, Malin said.

Marc Edwards, professor of civil engineering at Virginia Tech, has studied fluoride in water samples throughout the United States. Edwards believes that fluoridated dental products can protect childrens teeth without the need for community fluoridation.

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Putting the fluoride in toothpaste has benefits to your teeth, but doesn't have the same problem with ingestion, because you essentially bathe the teeth to get the benefits. You don't swallow the toothpaste or the fluoride in the mouthwash, Edwards said.

Edwards believes fluoridated water is an inefficient way to protect teeth.

Dosing fluoride to drinking water is just incredibly inefficient and polluting, because we only eat or drink 1% of the water, Edwards said. So at a minimum, 99% of the fluoride they put in the water doesn't provide any benefit at all because we don't consume it, or it doesn't contact our teeth in any way, shape, or form, yet it goes into the environment.

According to Edwards, fluoride has a negative impact on bone density at high levels, but adds to the structural strength of teeth at lower levels.

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Its kind of an interesting case where the dose makes the poison."

What a Sun Sentinel analysis shows

In 2023, about 113,000 emergency department visits in Florida for patients ages 0 to 64 were due to dental conditions that were potentially avoidable, such as cavities or gingivitis.

The South Florida Sun Sentinel compiled hospital ED visits from dental conditions over a decade through 2023 and found Florida counties with the lowest rates of visits are those in which 90% or more of their residents received fluoridated water. Most counties with the highest rates of ED visits for dental conditions over the decade are those that had less than 10% of their population receiving fluoridated water.

According to the Florida Department of Health, about 70% of Floridians have fluoridated drinking water. Florida residents can learn whether their city or county adds fluoride by visiting the Florida Department of Health's Public Water Systems Actively Fluoridating webpage.

Can Florida cities and counties afford to take a chance?

While advocates on both sides flood inboxes of city commissioners across the state with information on the issue, one fact cannot be disputed: Florida already has a poor track record for dental health.

The state ranks last in the nation for the percentage of children who have seen a dentist in the past year, according to a National Survey of Childrens Health.

In addition, about one in five children in the state are living with untreated cavities.

At least 7 million people in Florida face barriers to accessing preventive dental care, either due to a lack of dentists who accept Medicaid or because they live in areas designated as dental-care deserts.

"Florida has one of the most difficult dental access problems in the country," said Dr. Frank Catalanotto. "Without regular dental care, a population is more susceptible to dental disease."

Catalanotto said Floridians in municipalities that eliminate fluoride will see the effect within a few years: "We are going to have more children with cavities and probably more adults with cavities too."

Going forward in Florida

Public health experts want to see more U.S. research on fluoride's effect  at the levels used most commonly in public water supplies.

"There's a lack of long-term, high-quality research," Johnson said. "Everyone is calling for a robust study on fluoride levels naturally existing and when added at low and high levels."

South Florida Sun Sentinel health reporter Cindy Goodman can be reached at cgoodman@sunsentinel.com.
Sixty years ago, on March 7, Sheyann Webb-Christburg walked with 600 other activists in Selma, Alabama, to protest Black voter suppression. As they reached the Edmund Pettus Bridge, just six blocks into their 54-mile march to the state capital of Montgomery, Webb-Christburgs heart began to beat faster.

She saw police lined up at the bridges entrance, wearing tear gas masks and holding billy clubs. Watching the police with their horses and dogs in tow, Webb-Christburg took in the scene.

She knew something terrible was going to happen.

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As they walked closer to the line of police, the protestors kneeled down and began to pray. The police asked them to turn around and stop marching. But the marchers refused.

Sheyann Webb-Christburg, often nicknamed the Smallest Freedom Fighter, at 8 years old.

Suddenly, tear gas burst into the air and racism unleashed this brutality onto the marchers, Webb-Christburg told The 19th. The dogs and horses began pushing their way into the crowd, trampling protestors as if they werent human beings.

Her eyes began to burn from the tear gas. She turned away and ran toward her home in the George Washington Carver projects. In the corner of her eye, she saw people running beside her, some falling to the ground and others being beaten by the police.

Webb-Christburg was 9  the youngest of the protestors that day.

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The picture of Bloody Sunday has never left my heart, nor my mind, she said.

Local police, state troopers and citizens attacked the protesters, and 58 people, including civil rights leader and future Rep. John Lewis, were treated for their injuries at a local hospital. Later that night, thousands of Americans across the country watched the footage on their home televisions, witnessing firsthand the violence that the protesters experienced. It was a pivotal event in the public perception of the civil rights movement, and five months later, on August 6, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting.

State troopers attack marchers with billy clubs in Selma, Alabama, in March 7, 1965. (AP)

From the end of Reconstruction until the Civil Rights Movement, Black people were largely disenfranchised and didnt have the right to vote. Although Black men were granted the right to vote with the 15th Amendment in 1870 and Black women with the 19th Amendment in 1920, Ashley D. Farmer, a civil rights historian and professor at University of Texas-Austin, told The 19th that stipulations like the grandfather clause  a state law that restricted Black men from voting unless their male ancestors voted  poll taxes and literacy tests kept Black voters from exercising their civic duty.

We should understand that Bloody Sunday was a culmination of a lot of different grassroots efforts to change that nearly 100-year history, Farmer said. It really was a monumental moment in terms of the bravery of people  and also in terms of what happened in response to people trying to execute their Constitutional right.

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While many werent in the spotlight, Black women were the backbone of the civil rights movement: They fed protestors, planned meetings and worked behind the scenes to contribute to the fight to end Black voter suppression and other forms of discrimination. Decades later, their full contributions are still being acknowledged.

You dont get a Bloody Sunday, you dont get such a march without the work of grassroots organizers, particularly Black women and particularly the Black women in the Dallas County Voters League, Farmer said. You may see the flashy protest, but below the surface is a strong collective of people, Black women usually, that are creating the networks, trust, community-building and organizational literacy for something [like this] to be able to take place.

As young Black marchers traveled to Selma to see their way across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the women of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), a nonprofit advancing the quality of life for African-American women, opened their doors and offered hundreds a place to sleep while in the city.

Dorothy Height, the president of NCNW for 40 years and known as the godmother of the civil rights movement, implored local members of the Black women-led organization to not only provide housing for organizers but also partner with historically Black Divine Nine sororities like Delta Sigma Theta and Alpha Kappa Alpha to feed and protect Selma marchers from law enforcement.

Dorothy Height speaks at a press conference in February 1958. (Los Angeles Examiner/Getty Images)

Heights work with NCNW continued throughout the civil rights movement as the organization assisted in organizing the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963, and she was the only woman sitting on stage while Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his historic I Have a Dream speech.

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Today, the Rev. Shavon Arline-Bradley, a Black woman, ordained minister and expert in diversity, equity and inclusion, serves as president and CEO of NCNW and sees her role as carrying on Heights activism.

The work we do today means everything to me. We are almost 90 years old and we continue the legacy of our longest-serving president, Dorothy Height, who really stood as the only woman in the civil rights space that represented the interest of Black women, she said.

Since 1965, NCNW has been instrumental in commemorating Bloody Sunday. This year, Arline-Bradley will be in Selma to reenact moments where NCNW supported, fed and housed marchers. NCNW will also partner with Salute Selma, a nonprofit dedicated to continuing the work of the civil rights movement, to conduct an education advocacy forum on the ongoing fight for equality.

NCNW has a strong history in this space and we look forward to commemorating Selma this year, Arline-Bradley said.

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For Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters (LWV), the contributions that Black women made to demonstrations like the march on Bloody Sunday are undeniable. She pointed to activists like Diane Nash, a notable leader of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee and one of the marchers that Sunday.

She really transformed those tragedies into strategic action. She began envisioning the Selma marches as a way to continue to force national attention on both the racial violence but also the voting rights violations that were happening in Alabama, Stewart said.

Diane Nash (right), representing the Southern Christian Leadership Committee, is interviewed as she leaves the White House in Washington, D.C. on July 9, 1963. (Henry Burroughs/AP)

Nash had a persistent spirit and advocated for march strategies in Selma due to the high level of organizing that was already present there. She was soon able to convince prominent civil rights leaders like King to focus on Selma as a primary campaign site.

Her story really reveals how womens leadership often worked behind the scenes. So often we are not at the front. We are not on the stage, we are behind the curtain, Stewart said. For me, the most powerful lesson that came from Bloody Sunday is the importance of persistence. These women did not give up.

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Stewart also noted that many Black women who came before her were once excluded from the very organization she leads today.

The league, founded in 1920, excluded Black women. My grandmother could become a member but she wasnt allowed to do certain things, Stewart said.

With a 105-year-old history of voting rights education, advocacy and grassroots action, LWV has strengthened its mission to empower women voters today by acknowledging the Black women who have set the groundwork for voting equality.

Despite how critical we have seen Black women be, even at that time, to these movements, there was exclusion. There was a desire to have [Black women] in the back. So, thats something we confront in our own history because that was a form of voter suppression, Stewart said.

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After Bloody Sunday, another pioneering Black woman, Constance Baker Motley, was part of the legal team that secured federal protection for future marches through the Williams vs. Wallace lawsuit.

Constance B. Motley in April 16, 1965 (Universal Images Group/Getty Images)

Motley was the first female lawyer with the Legal Defense Fund (LDF), a law organization founded in 1940 focused on civil rights and racial justice. She also later became the first Black woman to serve as a United States federal judge.

According to LDF, Amelia Boynton Robinson was one of three plaintiffs listed in the Williams vs. Wallace case, which named then-Alabama Gov. George Wallace as a defendant. LDF had represented Boynton Robinson just two months prior to her involvement in the march in a voting-rights case against the state of Alabama.

[Black women] are creating spaces that are needed for the types of organizing, for the types of fellowship, for the types of planning and strategy that are necessary to pull off something like the march from Montgomery to Selma, and to recover and heal after something like a Bloody Sunday, said Ashton Wingate, manager of digital archives for the Legal Defense Fund.

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For many years, LDF has also participated in the commemoration of the march by returning to Selma to conduct speeches and walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in honor of those they have represented.

The Rev. Al Sharpton prepares marchers for a prayer on the Edmund Pettus Bridge during commemorations for the 57th anniversary of Bloody Sunday on March 6, 2022 in Selma, Alabama. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Webb-Christburgs experience on Bloody Sunday inspired her to continue as an activist in her community. She wrote a book, Selma, Lord, Selma, about her childhood and founded a youth development program to help students become leaders.

Leading up to the anniversary of Bloody Sunday each year, Webb-Christburg gives speeches and tells her story across the country. Every year on March 7, uplifted by the memory of the women who played a crucial role in organizing the protests, sit-ins and meetings of the civil rights movement, she crosses the Edmund Pettus Bridge in honor of Bloody Sunday and the fight for freedom.

From year to year, its always mixed emotions when I cross that bridge, she said. I cant help but to reflect on how far weve come. But yet, in such a time as this, we still have a long way to go.

The post Flowers for the unsung Black women of Bloody Sunday appeared first on The 19th.

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HONOLULU (KHON2)  A new hot spot for fresh dumplings is hosting a grand opening this week on Kapahulu. Dumpling Factory is the highlight of Mondays edition of Food2Go on Wake Up 2Day.

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Dumpling Factory is a brand new concept that offers a modern twist on traditional Chinese dumplings, paired with a menu of bold flavors and shareable signature dishes. Dumplings have a way of bringing people together, and with Dumpling Factory, were honoring that tradition while adding our own special touches. said owner Tina Wang.

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The dumplings are served boiled or pan-fried ranging from $4.99 to $13.99, and have favorites like shrimp & pork, chicken & chives, and chicken & Shiitake mushrooms. There are also vegetarian-friendly options like zucchini, green pepper, and egg dumplings.

Our menu is designed to delight every palate, Wang said. In addition to dumplings, diners can enjoy hearty dishes such as spicy sour soup dumplings with thin noodles, housemade braised pork belly over rice, and the savory braised beef wrap. Appetizers like shredded potato with chili oil, housemade cucumber salad, and wood ear mushroom salad can also be found on our menu, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich, bold flavors of the main dishes.

Kupuna Caregiver: Therapeutic TV helps people with dementia, caregivers

The restaurant started with a soft opening but is planning a grand opening on March 5th which will feature some deals.

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Dumpling Factory is offering a special buy-one-get-one deal on dumplings, Wang said. On March 5 only, customers who purchase an order of 12 dumplings, will receive a second order of 12 dumplings to take home to boil or pan fry themselvesensuring peak freshness. Guests can choose from five dumpling varieties for their take-home order. Limit to two free take-home orders per customer. Additionally, from March 7 to March 9, customers can enjoy a free appetizer when they bring a friend to dine. Parties of two or more will receive a complimentary appetizer to share, excluding the Braised Housemade Pork Belly and Brown Sauce Braised Beef.

For more information, visit dumplingfactoryhawaii.com to explore the menu and sign up for exclusive updates.

Download the free KHON2 app for iOS or Android to stay informed on the latest news

You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @dumplingfactoryhawaii to stay up-to-date on the latest information on special giveaways, promotions, and more.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
We began Sunday in a similar fashion to Saturday, with chilly lows. But temperatures rose farther than they did on Saturday. Your weather timeline takes you into some changes in the forecast.

Lows will bottom out after midnight, and then steady before climbing into Monday. It will be a decent early March day at the bus stop.

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Rain will begin Monday night and become heavy into Tuesday. Severe weather looks to stay south of us, though we may see hail in addition to heavy rain in Iowa.

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Rain will begin changing over to snow Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning. Before it does so, well get a needed soaker, as shown in the precipitation images below:

For most of us, the snow looks to come to an end by lunchtime on Wednesday. However, winds gusting in excess of 40mph will stay with us for the afternoon hours, reducing visibilities.

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A look at two snow total forecasts from trusted computer models. A heavier band looks to set up in western and northern Iowa.

Another chance of rain and snow looks to move into Iowa on Friday. Beyond that, it looks to stay quiet until the middle of the month:

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Turning to temperatures, well start the week off warm before cooling. We look to warm up again as we head into the following week.

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Extended forecasts give us a decent chance of being warm and dry until the 15th or so:

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Your WHO 13 7-day forecasts:

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WINDBER, Pa.  Forest Hills and Windber Area school districts collaborated this week on a nonperishable food drive to support families in need.

The event was spawned by reports of recent Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program system breaches. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services said in January that instances of fraud, such as EBT card skimming, were on the rise nationwide.

Michael Vuckovich, Windber superintendent, said a parent reached out to him and thats how the Ramblers Rally for Relief began.

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The Ramblers relief effort is a tremendous way for the community to pull together in a time of need, he said.

The collection started Feb. 17 and community members were asked to donate pasta, canned goods, cereal, rice and other shelf-stable items by Friday.

Vuckovich said a great deal of food was collected in that time, with the first distribution event taking place last week.

Windber is a special place and a special community, and this is an example how much we care for one another, he added.

Ericka McKnight, Forest Hills emotional support teacher, organized the efforts in her district.

She said the Ranger community was informed of Windbers efforts to lend a hand and, as a way to continue the districts collaboration, they stepped up to help the Ramblers.

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Member of our LEO Club, Never Alone Club and junior high (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) Club wanted to help out neighboring school, she said. The mission of all three clubs is to spread positivity, kindness, empathy and create a culture of inclusion.

She added that students decided that assisting Windber would be a great way to show that not only are we spreading these qualities throughout our own school district but also neighboring school districts as well.

Vuckovich said he could not thank the Forest Hills community, including Superintendent David Lehman, enough for helping with this drive.

He said the Sidman school has a special place in our hearts, and Windber is glad it wanted to assist.

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The efforts of students and staff at Forest Hills  food and monetary donations  were fantastic, according to McKnight.

The response has been exceptional and shows that Rangers are always ready to step up and lend a helping hand where needed, she said.

A second food distribution event took place Friday.

Windber families could sign up through the district website for that event, which included food and vouchers for bread and milk at Randys BiLo.
PORTLAND, Tenn. (WKRN)  Portland community members gathered Sunday to remember 19-year-old Austin Dill, who died after being shot last weekend.

Dills family  including his uncle, Darrin Moss  wore matching shirts that said Forever 19 to honor his life during the visitation at Generation Church in Portland on Sunday, March 2. Moss said his nephew was just shy of turning 20 years old when he died.

He would give you the shirt off his back if you asked for it, Moss told News 2. No matter you was, young or old, he would walk up to you and just hug you and tell you he loved you and start talking to you.

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Sebastian will be found: Hendersonville teens loved ones hold candlelight vigil to mark anniversary of his disappearance and renew hope

According to local law enforcement, there is an active investigation into Dills death, but no information can be released at this time.

It is a horrible feeling not knowing exactly whats going on with everything and knowing that you have lost one of the most precious souls in this world, Moss said.

Dills family said he was beloved in his community. According to his obituary, the 19-year-olds ability to light up a room was unparalleled, and he had a unique gift for making others feel valued.

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Moss said his nephew loved cars and was known for driving his Camaro. In fact, Dills friends put together a car show in Bowling Green on Saturday, March 1 to honor his legacy.

Maury County community mourns student killed in crash

When Austin got shot, we thought that everything was going to be okay, but God must have had bigger plans for him, Moss told News 2.

Hundreds of people have donated more than $18,000 to a GoFundMe set up to help Dills family cover their medical bills, funeral expenses, and other essential costs. If you would like to contribute, click here.

According to Dills obituary, there will be another visitation at Generation Church from 10 a.m. to noon on Monday, March 3, followed by the celebration of life.

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CAIRO, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held a series of bilateral meetings Monday in Cairo with his visiting counterparts from Palestine, Jordan, Tunisia, Bahrain, Mauritania, Yemen, and Iraq ahead of an emergency Arab Summit on Gaza, scheduled for Tuesday in Egypt's New Administrative Capital.

The meetings focused on solidifying a unified Arab stance against any attempts to displace Palestinians from their homeland, and prioritizing the swift reconstruction of the war-torn Gaza Strip, according to statements released by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

The discussions underscored the importance of implementing the ceasefire agreement in its three phases, including the delivery of humanitarian aid and the immediate launch of early recovery efforts, such as rubble removal and infrastructure rebuilding, while ensuring Palestinians remain within Gaza.

Arab foreign ministers stressed the necessity of concerted regional and international action to guarantee the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement.

They underscored that this is a critical first step towards achieving a lasting and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, based on the two-state solution that would lead to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, within the 1967 borders.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas arrived in Cairo earlier in the day to participate in the summit, which is expected to witness the presentation of Egypt's comprehensive plan for the reconstruction of Gaza. 
A billboard that welcomed people to Smithfield, a town in Johnston County, stood until the 1970s, "but the efforts to keep Black Johnstonians off juries continued," said Henderson Hill, one of the attorneys for Hasson Bacote, a Black man sentenced to death in Johnston County in 2009. (Photo: Exhibit filed by Bacote's attorneys)

As a former prosecutor, mayor, governor of Connecticut, and a member of the International Commission Against the Death Penalty, I have spent much of my career in and around the criminal legal system learning firsthand that our system is far from perfect. Human beings are fallible  and when the stakes of a trial are life or death  it is essential that we examine the process thoroughly for fairness and accuracy. The more I learned, the more I realized that the only way to ensure the death penalty is not unfairly applied and does not cause additional harm to victims was to end it. I went from prosecuting homicide cases in New York to becoming a lead advocate in my state for abolishing capital punishment.

Three weeks ago, a North Carolina judge issued a decision in a case brought under the states Racial Justice Act that examined the impact of race in capital cases. After years of legal wrangling over the scope of the law, Hasson Bacotes case was the only the fifth in which a Racial Justice Act petitioner was actually afforded the opportunity to present witnesses. Persuaded by extensive evidence of the systemic exclusion of Black jurors and racially disproportionate sentencing outcomes, the courts opinion confirms what many have long known: racial bias infects the administration of the death penalty, including in North Carolina.

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Nowhere is this disturbing truth clearer than in Johnston County, where Mr. Bacote, the lead petitioner in the Racial Justice Act litigation, was tried and sentenced to death. Since 1990, Johnston County juries returned death verdicts in every case in which Johnston County prosecutors sought death against a Black defendant. Meanwhile, White defendants in the county had a better than 50-50 chance of receiving life sentences. This disparity is not a coincidence.

Mr. Bacotes legal team conducted an exhaustive review of approximately 680,000 pages of prosecutors notes and jury transcripts from every capital trial in North Carolina between 1980 and 2010 and found undeniable proof that race plays a central role in determining who gets to sit on juries and who is sentenced to death in death penalty cases. Across Johnston County, prosecutors struck prospective jurors of color at nearly twice the rate of white prospective jurors in all capital cases. One prosecutors notes disparaged a Black prospective juror with a criminal record as a thug while another prosecutor commented derisively on a juror questionnaire that a Black woman was too dumb.

The court appropriately vacated the death sentence imposed in Mr. Bacotes case. But as I said in 2012 when I signed legislation ending the death penalty in Connecticut, pivotal moments like this demand sober reflection, not celebration.

The courts recognition of the pattern of racism in sentencing adds to a growing body of evidence showing that racial discrimination is not an anomaly in North Carolinas death penalty system, it is a defining feature. Between 2007 and 2009, three Black men sentenced to death in North Carolina were exonerated after spending more than a decade each on death row, narrowly escaping execution for crimes they did not commit. In 2012, a court resentenced four other people to life in prison because racial discrimination played a key role in securing their sentences. The judge in that case hoped that decision would be the first step in creating a system of justice free from the pernicious influence of race and one that truly lives up to our ideal of equal justice under the law.

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The continued evidence of racial discrimination in sentencing and jury selection shows that North Carolina has yet to realize this vision. Just last December, then Governor Roy Cooper cited continued concerns about the role of race in sentencing decisions when he announced he was commuting the sentences of 15 people on death row.

When the Racial Justice Act was passed in 2009, it intended to address the racial bias baked into capital sentencing. Fifteen years later, North Carolina has yet to ensure that every person facing a capital trial has a fair, unbiased chance at justice. With more than 30 years of proof that racial discrimination infects capital sentencing in North Carolina and more than 120 people still on death row, it is clear more work needs to be done. I urge North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson and Governor Josh Stein to undertake a comprehensive investigation into the use of capital punishment in their state. Failing to act in the face of this undeniable evidence would be a tacit endorsement of a system that has disproportionately condemned Black defendants to death and excluded people in their state from the most important function of jury service.

True leaders do not ignore injustice, they confront it head on. So yes, we need sober reflection. But what we need more urgently is action: an investigation, accountability, and a commitment to ensuring that racial bias no longer dictates who lives and who dies in North Carolina.

This post has been updated to clarify that Hasson Bacotes case was the fifth in which a Racial Justice Act petitioner was afforded the opportunity to present witnesses, rather than the first.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  A former Washington, D.C., Homeland Security commissioner will serve over a year in federal prison for submitting fake applications and netting $844,000 from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), according to the U.S. Attorneys Office, District of Columbia (USADC).

A judge sentenced Wendy Nicole Villatoro, 40, on Feb. 28 to serve 15 months in prison and undergo two years of supervised probation.

This comes after Villatoro, who is currently employed with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, pleaded guilty to bank fraud charges on Nov. 14, 2024.

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Youngkin commutes former Fairfax County police sergeants sentence for fatal Tysons Corner shooting

According to the governments evidence, between March 31, 2020, and Aug. 4, 2021, Villatoro submitted eight PPP Loan applications using multiple financial institutions and 15 economic Injury Disaster (EID) loans with the Small Business Administration.

Officials said Villatoro used fake businesses and inflated the number of employees, the monthly payroll and the gross yearly revenue. In doing so, she tried to steal between $2.6 million and $5.5 million.

Even though most of her loan applications were denied, she secured over $844,000 in PPP and EID funds.

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The attorneys office said Villatoro used the money to pay off her student loan debt, her loan on a BMW SUV and buy luxury items.

As part of her plea agreement, Villatoro agreed to pay $844,415.24 in restitution to the government and to forfeit the items she bought. This includes over 70 pieces of designer clothing and jewelry and the BMW.

The CARES Act, enacted in March 2020, was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and other expenses through the PPP.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Taylor Trache - Trache Facebook

Taylor Trache will join KLFY in Lafayette, Louisiana as a host of Acadiana Live!.

I am so excited to join the team here at KLFY News 10 as the new host for Acadiana Live!, she announced on social media. Thank you for all the sweet messages, prayers and good vibes that were sent my way still blown away by all of your support this past month!

She last worked at KADN in Lafayette and was part in the recent Allen Media layoffs.. Her first day at KLFY is March 10.
A former medical assistant at Massachusetts General Hospital accused of sexually assaulting patients was found guilty by a jury in Suffolk Superior Court Monday.

Damien Knighton sat in the Suffolk County Superior courtroom Monday afternoon as the jury delivered 6 guilty counts for indecent assault and battery and one not guilty verdict.

Knighton was a medical assistant at Back Bay Medical Center, which is affiliated with Mass General Hospital.

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The victims said he tricked them into going into exam rooms with him alone for further examinations.

25 Investigates spoke with a man, identified as M who said his trust was violated when Knighton placed him in an exam room and then, under the guise of it being medically necessary, touched him inappropriately and sexually abused him.

25 Investigates: Man allegedly sexually assaulted by medical assistant suing Mass General Hospital

M was there in January 2023 for a routine check-up.

He saw his doctor and got some lab work.

Then he says he was approached by a staff member, he assumed was a nurse or doctor, who said he needed to return to an exam room and told him to undress.

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So, he starts patting my legs, examining my skin and all the way up, M says.

M says the staffer was seemingly examining his skin then proceeded to fondle his genital area.

At the time, was trusting that it was medically necessary.

I think if he stopped there, the chances are I would have just gone home, says M.

25 Investigates pulled criminal indictments indicating the staffer didnt stop there.

M says he proceeded to do a rectal exam, twice.

He made a comment like, we do this, or we ask questions like this because, to determine if youre taking Viagra or Cialis. And I said, and I dont. And then I think he was done.

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He says the person cleaned him with a paper towel and told him he could go.

As soon as Im walking outside, I dont know. I started feeling a little bit weird, says M.

He says he was in shock but still reported what happened to both medical office staff and Boston Police before he even left the office.

As the investigation unfolded, M discovered Knighton, was a medical assistant, someone not authorized to conduct any type of exam.

M sued MGH, claiming the institution allowed their employees unfettered access to vulnerable patients without direct supervision, oversight, or monitoring.

Once convicted, the judge revoked his bail conditions.

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These incidents were egregious personal and ethical violations in a place of treatment and trust, and I thank the jury for recognizing them for what they were. I am grateful for the victims who bravely recounted Damien Knightons actions, and I thank the prosecutor, victim witness advocate and police investigators for their diligent work in bringing this defendant to justice, Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden said in a statement.

Knighton will be sentenced on March 14th.

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Former NATO Supreme Allied Cmdr. Wesley Clark said on Sunday that the war in Ukraine is a long way from being over.

[The] wars a long way from being over, Clark told NewsNations Chris Stirewalt on The Hill Sunday. Its [hard] to look at Russia through Russian eyes. Most of us look at Russia, we say, The economys in trouble, forces arent going very far very fast, theyre taking a lot of casualties.

But, you have to look at Russia through Russian history, Russian culture and Russian current mechanisms. Putins building a war machine. Military industrial complex in Russia going 24/7, getting a lot of support from China, Iran, North Korea. He hasnt really tapped all of his manpower reserves. Hes trying to do this on the cheap, he added.

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The comments from Clark come in the wake of a fiery Oval Office meeting between President Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Vice President Vance on Friday, which featured shouting and finger-pointing as the president and Zelensky argued over U.S. support for Ukraine.

Following the meeting, Trump said on his Truth Social platform that the Ukrainian president is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.

Trump has been pushing for an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine, with U.S. and Russian officials meeting in Saudi Arabia last month.

In his The Hill Sunday appearance, Clark said that Putin is in a very strong bargaining position.

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But Chris, the other thing is, so is Ukraine. This incident in the White House, it resulted in support for Zelensky and Ukraine from Europe and from the people in Ukraine, Clark added. Theyre not about to surrender Ukraine to Russia.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On Wednesday, February 26, a Dorchester man was sentenced in federal court for receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM) obtained via Zoom chat rooms.

Beau Christopher Benson, 36, was sentenced to 5 years in prison followed by a 5-year supervised release.

Back in April 2023, authorities were notified that Benson and others participated in Zoom chatrooms to share and view CSAM.

Benson recorded his participation in the chat rooms and saved the recordings, which featured videos of CSAM and conversations between Benson and others about the CSAM, to his social media account.

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Approximately 15 video files depicting CSAM were found saved in his Dropbox. In addition, Benson was identified as an online user who had uploaded two files containing CSAM to a Dropbox account. Specifically, the files depicted children who appear to be approximately two to four years old.

Benson initially pleaded guilty back in March 2024.

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Lech Waesa, the former Polish president and leader of the Solidarity movement, has written a letter to US President Donald Trump together with 39 other former Polish political prisoners to express their "concern" over the atmosphere of his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Source: the letter posted by Waesa on Facebook, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The authors of the letter said they had watched the recording of Trumps meeting with Zelenskyy with "horror and disgust".

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They noted that the atmosphere in the Oval Office during the conversation had "reminded us of what we vividly recall from interrogations by the Security Service and courtroom trials in communist courts".

"Prosecutors and judges working on behalf of the all-powerful Communist Party police would also tell us that they held all the cards while we had none," they said.

The letters authors expressed their "shock" that Trump and his team had treated Zelenskyy in a similar manner.

They also stressed that they found it offensive to expect expressions of gratitude for US financial aid to Ukraine, which is fighting against Russia.

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The signatories noted that it is the Ukrainian soldiers "who are shedding their blood to defend the values of the free world" who should be thanked.

"For over 11 years, they have been dying on the front line in the name of these values and the independence of their homeland, which has been attacked by Putins Russia. We do not understand how the leader of a country that symbolises the free world could fail to see this," the authors wrote.

They also reminded Trump of the USs commitments under the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which provided security assurances for Ukraine in exchange for it relinquishing its Soviet-era nuclear weapons.

"These guarantees are unconditional: there is not a single word suggesting that such assistance should be considered an economic exchange," the signatories added.

Background:

On 28 February, Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule after a spat with Trump and JD Vance.

Trump claimed in response that Zelenskyy had "disrespected" the United States and was "not ready for peace".

Read this analysis by European Pravda editor Sergiy Sydorenko on what this agreement means for Kyiv and Washington

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Former Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, a Republican who represented a South Florida district from 1993 to 2011, has died.

Diaz-Balart, 70, was the brother of current Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), who posted a statement from the family online Monday morning in English and Spanish, praising the late lawmaker as a defender of the silent and oppressed.

Lincolns profound love for the United States and his relentless commitment to the cause of a free Cuba guided him throughout his life and his 24 years in elected public service, including 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, the statement read. We will miss him infinitely.

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A public memorial Mass will be celebrated at a later date, according to the family statement.

The late Diaz-Balart was the architect behind Congress enshrining the long-standing U.S. embargo against Cuba. He was born in Havana, but the prominent political family moved to the U.S. after Fidel Castro seized power in 1959.

He was chair emeritus of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute, which he cofounded in 2003.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former Maryland Gov. and Social Security chief Martin OMalley is warning that Donald Trump and Elon Musks attacks on the agency could result in a system collapse and an interruption of benefits for Social Security recipients.

In a weekend interview with CNBC, OMalley, who headed the Social Security Administration (SSA) between until Trump took power, sounded the alarm over the so-called Department of Government Efficiencys (DOGE) cuts to the agency.

In recent weeks, Musk has called the core social safety net program the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time, falsely claiming it is riddled with fraud, waste, and abuse.

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Since Trump took office and empowered Musk at DOGE, the administration has shuttered at least 10 Social Security field offices, eliminated the SSAs Office of Transformation (tasked with improving the application process for recipients) and the Office of Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity, and attempted to force its way into payment systems containing highly sensitive data about American citizens. The Trump administration is also seeking to eliminate more than 7,000 jobs within the agency,

Its not going to end well, according to the former SSA commissioner. Ultimately, youre going to see the system collapse and an interruption of benefits, OMalley told CNBC, advising people to receive payments through the program to start saving.

I believe you will see that within the next 30 to 90 days, he predicted.

Last month, Acting Social Security Commissioner Michelle King resigned from her post following a dispute between the SSA and DOGE over access to private records on Social Security recipients.

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Musk claimed that if he wanted to rummage through random personal shit, I could have done that at PAYPAL. Hello???

The billionaire has accused the SSA of paying out checks to tens of millions of people marked in Social Security as ALIVE when they are definitely dead.

As it turns out, Musk was lying, and misconstruing a common data management practice for dates of birth as fraud in order to justify his cuts to the agency.

In a Friday interview with pro-Trump podcaster Joe Rogan, Musk openly demonstrated both his lack of understanding of how Social Security works, and what a Ponzi scheme is.

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Like many Republicans before him, Musk claimed that Social Security is the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time. When asked by Rogan to clarify what exactly he meant by that, Musk attempted to argue that because individuals pay into Social Security before they retire, and dont receive their benefits until later, the whole thing is actually a massive scam.

Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) responded to the claim in a statement today. Social Security is not a Ponzi scheme, it is an effective lifeline that helps seniors avoid destitution. It is a sound insurance program that works for wage earners who pay into the system while they are working, and when they reach retirement age they get benefits. For nearly ninety years, it has effectively helped keep generations of seniors, survivors, and disabled Americans out of poverty, he wrote. By comparing Social Security to a criminal enterprise, Musk is signaling Trump should prioritize tax breaks for billionaires and special interests over working peoples retirement.

In an interview with Meet the Press, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said it must have been a hell of a Ponzi scheme when for the last 80 years, Social Security has paid out every nickel owed to every eligible American.

But Sanders conceded that there are things about the system that should be fixed  particularly loopholes allowing the ultra wealthy to contribute the same amount as someone making millions or even billions less than them.

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Right now, Musk, worth $400 billion, contributes the same amount into the Social Security trust fund as somebody making $170 million, Sanders said.

You lift that cap. We extend the solvency of Social Security 75 years, and you can raise benefits, he said, adding: Weve got to raise Social Security benefits.

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WASHINGTON  The leader of the Social Security Administration under President Joe Biden says President Donald Trumps staff cuts could cause such disruption in the agency that seniors might miss benefit payments.

Martin OMalley, who served as commissioner of Social Security from December 2023 to November 2024, said the current administrations efforts to shrink the workforce will send away essential personnel and jeopardize the agencys most basic functions.

I think for the first time in 90 years, were going to see an interruption of benefits, OMalley told HuffPost on Monday. I hope that doesnt happen, but I believe it will. And at the very least you are going to see wait times skyrocket.

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More than 73 million people, including 56 million seniors, rely on the Social Security Administration for monthly benefit checks. Missed payments could cause hardship for recipients and political trouble for the president, whose opposition to Social Security benefit cuts has been a signature issue.

Martin O'Malley, the former commissioner of the Social Security Administration, says he's concerned staff cuts at the agency could interrupt benefit payments. Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images

Already, Democrats have hammered Trump and Elon Musk  the White House adviser leading Trumps purge of the federal workforce via his so-called Department of Government Efficiency  for seeking major reductions of the Social Security Administrations 60,000 employees. Musks young DOGE disciples have been posted in SSA conference rooms and reportedly have sought access to sensitive payment information.

Make no mistake: Trump and Elon are breaking Social Security to enrich themselves. Its seniors who will pay the price, Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said Friday. Democrats have long said the agency needs more administrative funding, which currently amounts to just half a percent of its total cost.

OMalley said 30% of the agencys information technology specialists were eligible for retirement during his tenure and that their work was so important he hesitated to cut back on remote work for fear of pushing them toward the exits. Now the Trump administration is actively shoving out workers.

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Youre talking about an agency that already has been operating at a 50-year low in staffing, OMalley said.

Spokespeople for the Social Security Administration did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek announced last week the agency would undergo a massive reorganization with significant workforce reductions, offering longer-tenured employees options for buyouts and early retirement programs. Dudek then placed two dozen senior staff on leave and announced plans to consolidate regional offices, according to a memo obtained by HuffPost.

Members of Congress have long scrutinized wait times for appointments at Social Security field offices and delays in answering calls to the agencys 800 number. Its hard to see how staff cuts could improve on those customer service metrics, though Dudek has said some employees could be reassigned to front line positions answering calls and staffing field offices.

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The Government Accountability Office, an investigative arm of Congress, has repeatedly warned that the Social Security Administration and other agencies rely on outdated IT software, including a programming language known as COBOL that was first created in 1959. The GAO noted in a 2023 report that the SSA has had to rehire retired staff and that having a shortage of expert personnel available to maintain a critical system creates significant risk to an agencys mission.

OMalley said that during his tenure he saw two widespread systems outages that both resulted from legacy software straining under new tasks.

Its a very fragile system, OMalley said, adding that an exodus of experienced staff will create a super high risk of collapse and system failure.

In an email to staff over the weekend, Dudek said the agency had been running on autopilot for too long and that customer service has suffered as a result.

The changes we implement acknowledge the urgent customer service crisis we face and are determined to fix, Dudek wrote. For our dedicated staff and every American we serve, these difficult decisions are not setbacks but opportunities to create a more efficient, accountable, and responsive government.
BUCHAREST, March 3 (Xinhua) -- The Romanian Senate tacitly adopted on Monday the so-called "little train" ordinance, a fiscal package issued by the government on Dec. 30, 2024, aimed at reducing public spending and increasing state revenues.

The ordinance passed without debate as the deadline for discussion and voting expired on March 2. Interim Senate President Mircea Abrudean announced its adoption during the plenary session.

Government officials argue that the measures are crucial for ensuring economic stability, managing budgetary resources responsibly, and gradually reducing the deficit from 7.9 percent in 2024 to below 3 percent by 2031.

However, opposition senators strongly criticized the lack of debate. According to the official Agerpres news agency, Save Romania Union senator Violeta Alexandru described the decision as "driven by fear," while Alliance for the Union of Romanians leader Petrisor Peiu condemned it as a "serious deviation from parliamentary norms." Party of Young People senator Gheorghe Vela called for the ordinance to be sent back to committees for further review.

The term "little train" ordinance refers to the government's practice of bundling multiple fiscal and budgetary measures into a single emergency ordinance, often issued at the end of the year. While this approach allows for swift legislative approval, critics argue that it bypasses thorough parliamentary scrutiny.

Despite the controversy, the ordinance will now move to the Chamber of Deputies, which has the final say on its adoption. 
[Watch in the player above: What is the Miranda warning?]

CHARDON, Ohio (WJW)  A former South Euclid-Lyndhurst City Schools teacher has been indicted on sex charges involving a minor.

Eric A. Schmidt (Geauga County Sheriffs Office)

A Geauga County grand jury on Monday handed up an indictment charging Eric A. Schmidt, 43, of Seven Hills, with three second-degree felony counts of illegal use of a minor in a nudity-oriented material or performance and a fifth-degree felony count of disseminating matter harmful to juveniles.

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Schmidt was arrested on Jan. 27 by Geauga County sheriffs deputies, following an investigation into allegations involving inappropriate actions with a minor, reads a Facebook post.

Authorities said the victim is not a student of the school district, according to a message sent to district families in January.

Schmidt was placed on leave from the school district after school officials learned of his arrest, to allow the investigation to proceed while respecting the individuals right to due process, reads the message.

Schmidt resigned from the district on Friday, Feb. 28, according to a district spokesperson.

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Robert Hocevar indicted on stalking, accused of installing cameras at victims homes, work

If convicted, Schmidt faces two to eight years in prison on each child pornography count and up to one year in prison on the disseminating charge.

Court records show Schmidt posted 10% of a $20,000 bond on Feb. 25, following his initial arraignment. Hes due for arraignment on the new charges on March 26.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
(KRON)  An Oakland man who worked as a substitute teacher is accused of sending racially charged letters threatening staff and students at an East Bay elementary school, according to the Department of Justice.

Lester Dale Lee, 69, made his initial appearance in federal court on Friday in connection to several mailings sent in May 2023 to a teacher and principal of Dayton Elementary School in San Leandro.

In a criminal complaint, an FBI special agent said Lee used racial slurs in the letters to describe three Black students and threatened to shoot the teacher and the students if they were not removed from the classroom. Lee allegedly posed authorship as the parent of another student.

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The first threatening letter was delivered via USPS to the teacher on May 3, 2023. School officials reported the letter to police, according to the complaint.

Classes canceled at Rohnert Park elementary school after vandals trash multiple rooms

On May 18, 2023, a second envelope addressed to the schools principal was received and contained an unidentified white powder. According to the FBI agent, the envelope matched the first in color and size, used the same typewritten address label, and had the same Oakland postmark and 2019 forever stamp.

One day later, a third envelope similar to the first two was received. The content of the typewritten letter, addressed once again to the teacher, was similar in racially charged threats to the first letter received. However, an 11-year-old student was mentioned by name, the special agent said.

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Due to a specific child being named in the threat, the school opted to inform the teachers, staff, and parents that the school had received a series of racially motivated threat letters specifically targeting members of the African American community, the affidavit said. After the disclosure to parents, there was a spike in absenteeism at the school, which officials attributed to safety concerns.

Parents of at least one child opted to home school for the remainder of the year, according to the complaint.

Two more letters, addressed to the director of elementary education at the San Lorenzo Unified School District, were received in June 2023. The letters blamed the principal for dangerous and hostile conditions at Dayton Elementary and referred to three students as little thugs. The fifth letter was signed Mr. L / A concerned worker at Dayton Elementary School, the complaint said.

Prosecutors said Lee worked through a staffing agency as a substitute teacher from 2022 to 2023 at a number of schools in the district, including Dayton Elementary. He was fired in April 2023, according to the complaint, after allegedly making contact with one student with his cane and calling others dumb. Two involved students were in the same class as the teacher who received threatening letters.

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In an interview with the FBI on April 27, 2024, agents asked Lee about teaching in the East Bay. According to the affidavit, Lee described, at length, his feelings regarding the problems at public schools and how they relate to Black students.

When asked whether as a Black man he found it easier to teach classes comprised of Black students, Lee allegedly told agents that sometimes it helped but other times they accuse me of being white. Lee said that in the students eyes he doesnt act Black or talk Black, according to the affidavit.

DOJ_REDACTED_COMPLAINT_as_to_Lester_Dale_LeeDownload

Lee is charged with federal crimes of mailing threats and intent to convey false information and hoaxes. He is expected back in federal court on March 28.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
GROVE CITY, Pa.  Mike Pence, who served six terms in Congress, four years as governor of Indiana and four years as vice president to President Donald Trump, is teaching part-time at Grove City College.

Pence, 65, sat down for an interview with the Erie Times-News, and allowed a reporter to follow him into the classroom.

Here are a few of his comments on a variety of topics:

Rarely are political opponents the enemy

"Most of the people I saw in both political parties are honorable people who come to Washington to make a difference."

"People always know I know how to disagree without being disagreeable."

"The Democrats were often wrong, but their hearts were in the right place."

"I always tell people, I'm a conservative, but I'm not in a bad mood about it. I've never begrudged anyone being liberal. They can be wrong. I don't hold it against them."

Former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence teaches an evening seminar class on campus in Grove City on Feb. 6, 2025.

Pence was a radio talk show host

"I was kind of Rush Limbaugh on decaf. It was the best three-hour-a-day job of my life."

Pence offers advice for living a good life

"Put your family first. Make them your calling and the Lord will fulfill his purpose for you."

What was Pence thinking as the siege of the Capitol raged?

"I was angry at what I saw, but I wasn't afraid. There was a deep sense of resolve in that moment."

Not all of the Jan. 6 defendants should have been pardoned

"I was disappointed to see the president pardon individuals who had engaged in violence against police officers. I witnessed firsthand what the Capitol Hill Police did that day."

The former VP often cites his autobiography

"As I said in my book  I don't know if I mentioned it, but I have a book. I think it's available in your bookstore."

He believes in the virtue of meeting in the middle

"See if there is some place we can find principled compromise. I don't mind saying people are wrong about stuff. I love a good debate."

Contact Jim Martin at jmartin@timesnews.com.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Mike Pence's thoughts on politics, civility, Jan. 6, family
Bison cow/calf herd in Lamar Valley (NPS/Diane Renkin)

The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, along with four other groups, have asked a federal court judge to let them intervene in a lawsuit that the State of Montana filed against Yellowstone National Park, challenging its latest bison management plan.

Previously, the State of Montana said that park officials and biologists had reneged on an agreement to keep the number of bison in the park lower, thereby decreasing the risk of spreading brucellosis to cattle producers in the Treasure State.

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However, the groups and the tribes contend that further development and decisions during the last decade have meant fewer cattle that are exposed to the bison, and that the park has adopted extensive plans to vaccinate and monitor the herds for any potential disease threat.

Meanwhile, the tribes say that Montanas actions, especially its desire to reduce the number of bison in the Yellowstone National Park herds, jeopardizes their tribal treaty hunting rights, hinders their ability to feed their families, and limits their ability to help other Indigenous peoples from bison, which many Native Americans regard as sacred.

Since 2013, the bison population has ebbed and flowed, usually between 4,400 and 5,900 animals, with an average around 5,000.

As of Spring 2008, all cattle that once grazed on private and public lands in the Reese Creek area adjacent to the Parks north boundary and west of the Yellowstone River were voluntarily removed, the complaint said. And, in 2009, (Montana) Fish, Wildlife and Parks signed a 30-year livestock grazing restriction and bison access agreement with the Royal Teton Ranch within Zone 2. Various government and non-government organizations, including proposed intervenor Greater Yellowstone Coalition, contributed funds to implement the agreement by purchasing grazing allotment buyouts and land leases to remove potential cattle conflicts from the landscape.

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The groups claim that Montana is trying to force the park and the intra-agency bison management partners back to the plan that is now a quarter century old.

Montana asks this court to invalidate the Yellowstone Bison Management Plan, enjoin the service from implementing its adaptive management approach and revert to rigid implementation of the 25-year-old (plan) based on obsolete circumstances and assumptions, the lawsuit said.

The proposed intervention also said that Montanas actions jeopardize the tribes ability to exercise their rights.

The (plan) allows for a larger buffalo population than envisioned in the 2000 (plan), the court filing said. This affords the Fort Peck Indian Tribes greater opportunity to recover Plains bison on their tribal lands in which tribal members can hunt their buffalo for food sovereignty and cultural resources.

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The court documents show that more than 400 Yellowstone bison have been transferred to 26 different Native American tribes, and all the animals were certified brucellosis free. The tribes and other groups, which included GYC, Defenders of Wildlife, National Parks Conservation Association and Park County Environmental Council, also told the court they have collectively raised more than $1 million for the parks quarantine facility, which helps keep bison for transfer to tribes, rather than slaughter.

Plus, the groups say that Montana continues to operate against Yellowstone Park, based solely on the threat of the disease, something that is also not borne out by science and research.

If Montana prevails on its legal claims, bison management could revert to past circumstances in which thousands of bison were killed by agency officials without any legitimate justification of preventing brucellosis to cattle, the suit said.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) The Ingham County Sheriffs Deputies arrested four drunk drivers last night.

Descriptions of the four arrests reported by the Ingham County Sheriffs Office:

A deputy was dispatched to a vehicle stuck in a field in the 1400 block of East Holt Rd. in Wheatfield Twp. at approximately 10:00 p.m. The driver, a 48-year-old Saginaw County man, was arrested and lodged at Ingham County Jail.

A deputy stopped a vehicle traveling southbound on US-127 near Holt. Rd. in Alaiedon Twp. at approximately 12:45 a.m. The driver, a 21-year-old Mason woman, was arrested and lodged at the Ingham County Jail.

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A deputy stopped a vehicle near Aurelius and Sycamore in Delhi Twp. at approximately 1:30 a.m. The driver, a 49-year-old Holt man, was arrested and lodged at the Ingham County Jail.

A deputy stopped a vehicle in the 2400 block of Cedar St. in Delhi Township at approximately 2:30 a.m.

The Ingham County Sheriffs Office says its, committed to promoting safe roadways with proactive traffic enforcement, in a news release sent to 6 News.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
If you live in Bristol and are hoping to fly to Crete over May half term, I suggest you pour yourself a tall glass of cider (or ouzo) and make sure you are sitting comfortably. There is only one option, and it is as follows.

When I last checked, return flights departing Saturday May 24 and returning Saturday May 31, with easyJet, were selling for no less than 1,211, each.

Throw in seat selection (8.99 per bottom) and basic check-in luggage at 59.73 a pop, and the sum for your week in Crete for two adults and two children comes to 5,394 before youve even thought about booking your accommodation.

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Flights from elsewhere in the UK to Crete are similarly expensive. The cheapest return flight from London to Crete over half term is an easyJet ticket from Luton for 708. Manchester is 777 (with Jet2) and Birmingham is 920 (also Jet2).

I was aware that May half term flights to Europe were steep, not least because Telegraph Travels Nick Trend recently crunched the numbers on peak vs off-peak airfares, but what these supposedly low-cost airlines are charging British families over May half term in particular takes things to a level we have never seen before.

No exceptions

It isnt only people hoping to travel to Crete who will have to remortgage their homes to go on holiday. Looking Saturday to Saturday in that final week of May, the only option from Birmingham to Menorca (Jet2) will cost you 1,137 per head. Manchester to Bodrum starts from 1,065 (also Jet2).Gatwick to Corsica will cost you 909 (easyJet). No airline is exempt: Tui flights from Stansted to Paphos start from 720, Ryanair services from Stansted to Kefalonia start from 549. These prices can and will fluctuate. But Ive been checking these regularly and the above gives a fair indication of where things are at.

An easyJet flight from Gatwick to Corsica will cost you 909 during the final week of May - iStockphoto

If you are tied to the school holidays, one way of sidestepping these eye-watering flight fares is to book a package holiday instead. For example, I found one Tui deal from Gatwick to Crete over May half term costing just 605 per person for a week. That covers flights, accommodation and half-board catering. Thats more than 100 cheaper than the cheapest available flight from Gatwick over those dates.

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Another option would be to look further afield. Over the May half term I found Lufthansa flights from Heathrow to San Francisco for 528 return. You can fly from Heathrow to Toronto for 449, to Colombo, Sri Lanka, for 673, or to Kuala Lumpur for 673. The latter two destinations will be pleasingly cheap on the ground, too. What a strange state of affairs, where a flight spanning more than 5,000 miles costs half the price of a two-hour hop to somewhere on the Med.

Or, of course, you could always take a punt on a less traditional holiday destination for May half term. A skip to the vibrant university city of Gothenburg costs just 56 return (with Ryanair, from Stansted). You could enjoy the unsung German city of Hamburg for just 59 (with Ryanair, from Stansted). And not all resort destinations are astronomical: you can get to Malaga for sub-250 with Vueling from Gatwick, or Edinburgh to Lanzarote with easyJet for 165, if you act fast.

Supply and demand

With high demand and finite seats, budget airlines are able to charge higher prices over school holidays because, simply put, they know they will sell. Airlines have staggered pricing systems which mean that the last remaining tickets tend to be more expensive: when challenged on the Bristol to Crete route, easyJet confirmed that there were only a small number of seats remaining.

John Grant of aviation analyst OAG says that (aside from the economics of supply and demand) the rising cost of labour and Air Passenger Duty are partly to blame for higher flight prices, but theres an even bigger factor that airlines are having to deal with.

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Perhaps the biggest issue at the moment is the supply chain and aircraft availability, says Grant. There are airlines with 30 per cent or more of their fleets grounded awaiting checks and overhauls as a result of manufacturing and performance issues from Rolls Royce and Pratt & Whitney, who make most of the engines on commercial aircraft.

One such airline is British Airways, which said last week that its 2025 schedule would be heavily affected by reduced aircraft availability due to problems with engines on its Boeing 787s.

In some cases aircraft are being taken offline for a maintenance check and not returning to operation for over 300 days, adds Grant. When thats 30 per cent of your fleet, that is a huge issue. This is leading to the supply of capacity being limited and the principals of supply and demand kicking in which in turn leads to these high fares, especially over school holiday periods.

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Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard declined to condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin in an interview Sunday, reserving her ire for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European leaders instead.

Gabbardwho has faced intense scrutiny for expressing sympathy for Russia and meeting with Putin ally and former Syrian dictator Bashar Al-Assadrepeatedly shifted the conversation away from Putin on Fox News Sunday as she was hammered on the Kremlin celebrating the fallout last week between Trump and Zelensky in the White House.

[Zelensky] has said that he wants to end this war, but he will only accept an end, apparently, that leads to what he views as Ukraines victoryeven if it comes at an incredibly high cost of potentially World War III or even a nuclear war, Gabbard told host Shannon Bream.

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Bream challenged Gabbard on Putins track record of breaking peace agreements, but the national intelligence chief dismissed the question.

Of course, both sides are going to have their arguments and their interests that they are fighting for, she said.

Gabbard again dodged Bream when the host pointed out that Russian officials, including former Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, responded triumphantly to Trumps contentious meeting with Zelensky in the Oval Office Friday.

What do you make of Russia celebrating and saying what the U.S. is doing lines up with their vision? Bream asked.

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Theyre going to say what their position is, Gabbard replied. What we should pay attention to here in the United States of America is the American people, so many people across the country, celebrating the strong leadership that President Trump and Vice President Vance demonstrated in the Oval Office.

Gabbard lambasted European leaders who had condemned Trumps meeting with Zelensky.

I think those who are criticizing [Trump]s efforts in this way are showing that they are not committed to peace, she said.

Theres something fundamentally deeper here that shows a huge difference in divergence between the values that President Trump and Vice President Vance are fighting forthe values that are enshrined in our Constitution, the interests of the American people in our peace and freedom and national securityversus those of many of these European countries who are coming to Zelensky side as he walked out of the White House, she added.

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Bream cut in, asking, Certainly those [values] are not things that you would say that Russia or Putin celebrates or bestows on his own people?

But Gabbard only spared two sentences to acknowledge the lack of freedom in Russia.

Thats correct. I would not make that claim, and its clear that thats not the case, nor does President Trump, she said.

But thats not really what were talking about here, she continued. Were talking about many of these European countries and Zelensky himself, who claim to be standing and fighting for the cause of freedom and democracy, when we actually look at whats happening in reality in these countries, as well as with Zelensky government in Ukraine, is the exact opposite.
By Elizabeth Piper and John Irish

LONDON/PARIS (Reuters) -Britain said on Monday that several proposals had been made for a truce in fighting between Ukraine and Russia, after France floated a plan for a one-month pause leading to peace talks, but U.S. President Donald Trump suggested his patience was running out.

European countries, led by Britain and France, are rallying around Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and trying to hatch a peace plan that includes Kyiv after last week's Oval Office rupture between Zelenskiy and Trump.

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"There are clearly a number of options on the table," Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman said.

France, Britain and potentially other European countries have offered to send troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire - something Moscow has already rejected - but say they would want support from the U.S., or a "backstop".

Trump has reversed U.S. policy by opening talks with Moscow over the head of Ukraine and without consulting its other Western allies. On Friday, he publicly harangued Zelenskiy to fall in line or see the U.S. cut off crucial military aid.

On Monday, the U.S. president responded angrily to an AP report quoting Zelenskiy as saying the end of the war is "very, very far away".

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"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.

"It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S."

Zelenskiy says a ceasefire must carry explicit security guarantees from the West to ensure that Russia, which invaded Ukraine three years ago and holds about 20% of its land, does not attack again. Trump has refused to give any such guarantees.

Starmer hosted European leaders in London on Sunday and said they had agreed to draw up a peace plan to present to the U.S.

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FRANCE SUGGESTS ONE-MONTH TRUCE TO TEST RUSSIAN INTENTIONS

In an interview on his way to the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron raised the possibility of a one-month truce, though there was no immediate public endorsement from other allies.

"Such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said.

"And that's when real peace negotiations could start."

European ground troops would only be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase, Macron said in the interview, published in Le Figaro.

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Zelenskiy, asked if he was aware of that proposal, told reporters in London: "I'm aware of everything."

European leaders are processing what some describe as Washington's biggest policy reversal since World War Two, after Zelenskiy left the White House abruptly on Friday following a dressing-down in front of cameras by Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Zelenskiy had been in Washington to sign a deal to give the U.S. access to Ukrainian minerals, but left without signing it.

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz told Fox News that Zelenskiy must apologise.

"What we need to hear from President Zelenskiy is that he has regret for what happened, he's ready to sign this minerals deal and that he's ready to engage in peace talks," he said.

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"I don't think that's too much to ask. We'll see what happens in the next 48 hours, but we are certainly looking to move forward in a positive way."

Friedrich Merz, the conservative due to become Germany's chancellor after winning the largest share of the vote in an election a week ago, suggested Friday's Oval Office argument, in which Zelenskiy was pressed to commit publicly to a diplomatic solution, had been a pre-planned trap.

"It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelenskiy, but obviously a manufactured escalation," Merz said.

"We must now show that we are in a position to act independently in Europe."

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EUROPEAN FEEL TRUMP HAS BETRAYED UKRAINE

Privately, and sometimes publicly, European officials are fuming at what they see as a betrayal of Ukraine, which had enjoyed staunch support from Washington since Russia's invasion.

French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou said there had been "two victims" from the Oval Office clash: Ukraine's security and Europe's eight-decade alliance with the United States.

In the French parliament, he thanked Zelenskiy for standing firm. He spoke of "a staggering scene, marked by brutality, a desire for humiliation, whose aim was to force Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to surrender by threat".

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But Europeans are also still working to keep the U.S. onside. Peter Mandelson, Britain's ambassador to the United States, said Ukrainian-U.S. relations needed to be reset, as Trumps initiative to end the war was "the only show in town".

Trump spoke by phone with Putin last month and then announced negotiations to end the war would begin quickly, blindsiding both Zelenskiy and his other Western allies, including the European Union and Britain.

European leaders now agree they must spend more on defence to show Trump the continent can protect itself. The EU will hold an emergency summit on Thursday.

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she would inform member states on Tuesday about plans to strengthen the European defence industry and the EU's military capabilities:

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"We need a massive surge in defence, without any question. We want lasting peace, but lasting peace can only be built on strength, and strength begins with strengthening ourselves."

Russia has not concealed its delight, praising Trump for changing U.S. policy and denouncing Zelenskiy for challenging him.

"We see that the collective West has partially begun to lose its collectivity, and a fragmentation of the collective West has begun," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"There remains a group of countries that rather constitutes the party of war, which declares its readiness to further support Ukraine in terms of supporting the war and ensuring the continuation of hostilities."

(Additional reporting by Sarah Young, Richard Lough, Makini Brice, Dmitry Antonov, Guy Faulconbridge, Doina Chiacu, Steve Holland and Angelo Amante; Writing by Ingrid Melander; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Peter Graff)
OTTAWA, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly said on Monday that Canada is ready to hit back at U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs right away, local media reported.

Joly said if the levies go into force, Ottawa will revive its previously announced plan for 25-percent retaliatory tariffs on 155 billion Canadian dollars (107 billion U.S. dollars) worth of American goods.

"We know this is an existential threat to us. There are thousands of jobs in Canada at stake. Now, we've done the work, we are ready, should the U.S. decide to launch their trade war," Joly said.

Canadian officials made a month-long diplomatic push to avoid tariffs. Joly said Canada has responded to Trump's concerns about the border. Canada named a new "fentanyl czar" and listed Mexican cartels as terrorist groups but is still left waiting to see what happens next.

Joly said she will meet with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau when he returns from London.

Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said Monday that Canada and the United States are no longer trade partners as before even if the tariffs are removed.

"I don't think we are going back there even if the tariffs are removed," said Wilkinson.

Trump said Monday that 25 percent tariffs on Mexico and Canada will take effect on Tuesday, March 4.

On Feb. 1, Trump signed an executive order to impose a 25 percent tariff on goods imported from Mexico and Canada, with a 10 percent tariff increase specifically for Canadian energy products.

On Feb. 3, Trump announced that the additional tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada would be deferred for one month, allowing more time for negotiations. According to this decision, the relevant tariff measures are set to take effect on March 4. 
(Bloomberg) -- The French government is looking at how to create leeway to raise defense spending as the need to rein in the countrys surging deficit and borrowing costs weigh on its options.

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France has committed a bit above 2% of gross domestic product to funding its military and security, and this is set to increase, Finance Minister Eric Lombard told a news conference on Monday.

We will need to find room for maneuver because its clear that the new world balance requires an increased effort in defense to preserve peace, he said.

Russias invasion of Ukraine and US President Donald Trumps demand that Europe contribute more to protecting the continent have increased the urgency to boost spending. European leaders held a security summit in London Sunday following Trumps Friday clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the White House and his direct outreach to Russian leader Vladimir Putin to end the war.

The European Council is due to meet Thursday to discuss a 20 billion ($21 billion) military package for Ukraine and steps to boost defense outlays, including a potential loosening of fiscal rules.

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Lombards comments came as he and French Budget Minister Amelie de Montchalin set out a plan on Monday to better manage public finances after a series of negative surprises knocked efforts to narrow the deficit off course and contributed to a surge in borrowing costs.

France finally adopted a budget for 2025 last month after a prolonged parliamentary battle that saw the previous government toppled in December. The finance bill aims to bring the deficit to 5.4% of economic output this year from about 6% in 2024.

Concerns about the countrys finances earned it a fresh warning on Friday from S&P Global Ratings, which put a negative outlook on its assessment of Frances creditworthiness.

The imperative of managing our debt remains, Lombard said.

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The most efficient way of finding financial leeway for defense would be to increase the number of employed people, though other solutions exist, according to the minister.

If we had Germanys employment rate, we wouldnt have a deficit, he added. Frances jobless rate was 7.3% in the final quarter of 2024. Germanys was between 3.5% and 3.6%, according to International Labor Organization (ILO) data.

The two parties likely to form the next German government led by conservative Friedrich Merz are exploring options for large-scale investments in defense and infrastructure. Bloomberg reported last week that current Chancellor Olaf Scholzs Social Democrats and the CDU/CSU bloc led by Merz are discussing as much as 200 billion for a special defense fund.

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French President Emmanuel Macron and U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer are working on a plan to reach a one-month truce in Ukraine, Macron told Le Figaro on March 2.

Macron's statement comes after European leaders met in London to discuss ending the war in Ukraine, and restoring dialogue between the Ukrainian and U.S. governments following the heated argument between U.S. President Donald Trump and President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House last week.

Ground and maritime operations, as well as energy infrastructure, would be part of a potential truce plan, Macron told Le Figaro, but would not cover the front lines as it would be too difficult to monitor, he added.

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Peacekeeping forces will be deployed on the ground only at the second stage of the plan's implementation, according to Macron. "There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks," he added.

But an unnamed British official denied that such a truce had been agreed upon in London, adding there was not yet agreement on the timing of any potential ceasefire.

Later on March 3, the Financial Times (FT) reported that the U.K. was distancing itself from the truce plan.

"There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed," an official told the outlet.

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Macron added that the European Union must also allocate an additional 200 billion euros ($208 billion) to strengthen its defense capabilities in light of a possible U.S. rollback and further Russian threats.

EU countries have to set a target for defense investment of 3%-3.5% of GDP, the French president said. He added defense funds are expected to come through "innovative financing," including joint loans and other EU mechanisms.

These issues will be on the agenda of the emergency European summit on March 6. According to Macron, the EU is also seeking to provide Ukraine with an emergency military aid package worth 20 billion euros ($21 billion) at the meeting in Brussels.

While most European leaders publicly voiced support for Zelensky after his spat with Trump, Starmer called both the Ukrainian and U.S. leaders in an attempt to bridge the rift. The prime minister reportedly aims to tell Zelensky that fixing relations with Trump would be necessary to ensure lasting peace.

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The British prime minister and Macron, who visited Washington earlier the previous week, are seeking to mend the ties between Kyiv and the U.S. and present a united front on Ukraine and Russia.

European leaders had previously been sidelined from talks between the U.S. and Russia  concerned that neither the EU nor Kyiv will have a role in negotiating a ceasefire in Ukraine.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Europe developing coalition of the willing to back ceasefire in Ukraine, Starmer says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Marine Le Pen, the de-facto leader of the French far-right National Rally party, believes that Ukraine should not be promised membership of NATO and the European Union, as the former was the cause of Russian aggression and is opposed by the United States, while the latter is not beneficial to the EU itself.

Source: Marine Le Pen on 3 March during a speech at the French National Assembly, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Le Pen believes that Ukraine deserves support from the European Union, but it should be realistic. Promising NATO and EU accession would be a deception or pose a serious risk to peace on the European continent.

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Quote from Le Pen: "There is no doubt that we must support Ukraine to remain sovereign and free. But we must do so with realism and with our own national interests in mind, not just with extravagant statements without real facts. Understanding reality, first and foremost, means recognising that we cannot promise Ukraine NATO membership because we know that this prospect served as a justification for Russian aggression and is now clearly rejected by the United States. Likewise, Ukraine's accession to the European Union is undoubtedly contrary to our interests. This membership would cost France billions of euros, create new distortions of competition in the labour market, significantly affect our social model, and its primary consequence would almost certainly be the destruction of our farmers [their business  ed.]. Support for this dual membership appears to be either a deception or a serious risk to peace and our interests."

Background: In February, Le Pen and other far-right leaders from Patriots for Europe, the third-largest grouping in the European Parliament, participated in a large-scale meeting in Madrid under the slogan Make Europe Great Again.

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Freshman Sen. Patrick Schmidt, a Topeka Democrat, appears at a Feb. 28, 2025, recording of the Kansas Reflector podcast to talk about his desire for property tax relief, legislative priorities, and the condensed schedule for this year's session. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  The way freshman Sen. Patrick Schmidt sees it, a shorter legislative session isnt necessarily a bad thing.

Republican legislative leaders condensed the schedule this year to complete work by the end of March, then come back for just a couple of days in the middle of April to consider any vetoes by Gov. Laura Kelly and make last-minute budget adjustments. Thats a significant departure from the schedule most years, where the session bleeds into April and lawmakers return around the start of May for another week or two of action.

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But Schmidt, a Topeka Democrat, said the shortened timeline for passing bills could work in Democrats favor. As he put it during a recording of the Kansas Reflector podcast: Were trying to stop bad stuff.

It might not be the worst thing if we can run out the clock on some of these extremist ideas that they are always presenting, Schmidt said.

Schmidts journey to the Statehouse was preceded by his time as a U.S. Navy intelligence officer. He said he spent a lot of time sailing in circles in the South China Sea, and served with special forces in Bahrain before going to work in the Pentagon.

But after he witnessed the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection while living across from the U.S. Capitol, he was motivated to enter the political arena.

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I was close enough to smell the tear gas and bear spray and to see the people violently assaulting law enforcement officers, Schmidt said. And Im really saddened, especially by what we saw last month at the pardons of people that violently attacked law enforcement officers. And I think that its a sad day. I think its a dangerous day for the country.

Schmidt ran for a U.S. House seat in 2022, when he lost to an incumbent Republican, then in 2024 won an open 19th District seat that stretches from East Topeka to northwest Lawrence.

The district shouldnt even exist, Schmidt said. He blames GOP gerrymandering for a disconnect between the priorities of legislators and the needs of Kansans who are hurting. Republicans last fall expanded their supermajority ranks to 31 seats in the 40-member Senate.

Moses did not come down from the mountain with 40 Senate districts in Kansas drawn exactly so to ensure only nine Democrats and 31 Republicans, Schmidt said. These are wholly artificial creations that I think really distort democracy in this state.

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Schmidt said he is disappointed that lawmakers havent given more attention to providing property tax relief to homeowners, as voters urged them to do last fall. Since the session began in January, Schmidt said, he has heard from people on fixed incomes who are crying to me about the possibility of being driven from their home.

He was dismayed that the first vote in the Senate this year was for legislation that would eliminate property taxes for private jets and yachts. Senate Bill 10 passed 37-3. And the only bill the Legislature has passed into law so far, Senate Bill 63, bans gender-affirming care for minors.

Another bill that passed the Senate would allow educators to misgender trans kids. Schmidt said Senate Bill 76 equates to legalized bullying of kids who are already struggling with suicidal thoughts.

He wondered: Is passing these bills worth one more suicide in Kansas?

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Also: Why are we spending time on this instead of giving Kansans a solution for property taxes?

Schmidt broke from party ranks to support Senate Concurrent Resolution 1603, which would ask voters to consider a constitutional amendment that limits taxable property valuations from increasing by more than 3% annually. An amendment made the adjustment retroactive to 2022, which means some people could actually see an immediate decrease in taxes.

The legislation requires two-thirds support in both the Senate and House before it would be placed on the November 2025 ballot. Schmidt was one of two Democrats who voted in favor of the resolution when the Senate passed it 28-11 on Feb. 6. So far, the House has shown no interest in the idea.

Ive spoken with my Democratic colleagues, Ive spoken with the governor, Ive spoken with my Republican colleagues, and they didnt all agree with me, Schmidt said. But Im very confident that when it comes to best outcomes for the 19th, and I think best outcomes for the state, the people want to vote on this. And I think if they want to vote on it, if they want to vote themselves to lower their property taxes, we need to give them that opportunity and trust the voters.

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His hope is that lawmakers return their focus to property taxes before the clock expires on the condensed legislative session.

I would love to see real property tax relief for Kansans, Schmidt said. I think that would help the most people all across, you know, regardless of location or socio-economic status. That would help the most people.

But we need to be having serious conversations about why our population is not growing and why so many people struggle to see their future here. And you know, again, I think it gets back to these issues where we have a pretty good understanding of what people want, and the Legislature owes it to them to start delivering.
A Frontier passenger started punching the seat in front of him and a window, an FBI affidavit stated.

Raul Ramos Tamayo was restrained by crew and other passengers on the flight from Dever to Houston.

Police met the flight when it landed and he could face a prison sentence or fine if convicted.

A Frontier Airlines passenger could be given a prison sentence after being restrained midflight by other travelers last month.

Raul Ramos Tamayo, 31, was on Frontier flight 4856 from Denver to Houston, per an affidavit from an FBI special agent.

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About 30 minutes after takeoff, he started punching the seat in front of him, witnesses are said to have told the FBI.

After crew members approached him, Tamayo is alleged to have started punching a window, resulting in damage.

The affidavit stated that the cabin crew then asked for help from any law enforcement officers or able-bodied passengers, several of whom helped restrain Tamayo with flex cuffs around his wrists and ankles.

Tamayo was then put back into a seat and surrounded by the passengers who subdued him for the rest of the 2-hour flight, it added.

Officers from the Houston Police Department met the flight at the gate at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

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Tamayo was charged with destruction of aircraft or aircraft facilities. If convicted, he could face a lengthy prison sentence and a fine of up to $250,000.

The FBI affidavit cited an internal airline report that said the damage included a cracked window, broken window shade, and broken outer lining of the window. The total cost of the damage was estimated at $1,546.

"Based on my experience as a Special Agent, I know that a passenger on an aircraft must not cause damage to the aircraft, especially when the aircraft is in flight," the affidavit read.

While cases of unruly passengers remain above pre-pandemic levels, it isn't clear that they always result in prosecutions.

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Some airlines are taking more legal actions themselves. Ryanair, Europe's biggest airline, said in January it was suing a passenger for about $15,500 because the individual caused a flight to divert.

"When the public flies, they need to feel confident that they are doing so under safe conditions," said Nicholas J. Ganjei, US Attorney for the Southern District of Texas.

"Given the fact that greater Houston has two major international airports, with tens of millions of travelers a year, the Southern District of Texas is always ready to prosecute those that endanger the safety of passengers."

Read the original article on Business Insider
LIBREVILLE, Gabon (AP)  Gabon's military leader announced Monday that he would run as a candidate in the oil-rich central African nations presidential election set for April 12.

Gen. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who is interim president, led a 2023 military coup that toppled President Ali Bongo Ondimba, who many Gabonese accused of irresponsible governance and major embezzlement that risked leading the country into chaos.

After careful consideration and in response to your numerous appeals, I have decided to stand as a candidate in the presidential election, Nguema said during a speech to his supporters in the capital Libreville.

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In August 2023, soldiers proclaimed Nguema, who was the republican guard chief and a cousin of Bongo, as president of a transitional committee to lead the country.

The announcement of his candidacy came after the adoption last month by Gabons parliament of a new electoral code, which sets out the rules and conditions for organizing elections in the country.

The legislation was contentious as it authorized military personnel to be candidates in all political elections in the country, which wasn't possible in the past. It paved the way for Nguema to run for his first presidential term.

Gabons constitution, which was adopted in a referendum in November, sets the presidential term at seven years, renewable once.

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Bongo, the toppled president, had served two terms after coming to power in 2009 following the death of his father, who ruled the country for 41 years. There was widespread discontent with his familys reign.

Gabon, a former French colony, is a member of OPEC, but its oil wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few  and nearly 40% of Gabonese ranging in age from 15 to 24 were out of work in 2020, according to the World Bank. Its oil export revenue was $6 billion in 2022, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
GABORONE, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Botswanan Minister of Environment and Tourism Wynter Mmolotsi on Monday called for bridging conservation-funding gaps and recognizing nature as a foundation for sustainable development.

Speaking on World Wildlife Day, observed annually on March 3, Mmolotsi said Botswana has played a vital role in protecting many wildlife species.

"This is made possible through the implementation of sound wildlife policies, effective legislation, and management strategies, and above all the strong commitment and financial support of the government and conservation partners," he said.

Mmolotsi urged governments and conservation stakeholders to advance cooperation in addressing the critical shortfall in conservation funding, noting that it is estimated that 824 billion U.S. dollars is required annually for global biodiversity conservation, yet only 143 billion dollars is currently available.

"This is despite the fact that it is estimated that more than half of the world's gross domestic product is dependent on nature, making biodiversity loss a significant threat to financial stability. This figure is higher in developing economies like ours. The importance of biodiversity to our country is even more pronounced as we face imminent demise of minerals, which are currently the mainstay of our economy," Mmolotsi added.

The theme of this year's World Wildlif Day, "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet," aims to raise awareness about existing successes and potential solutions for securing long-term funding for the conservation of wild animals and plants. 
GADSDEN, Ala. (WIAT)  Gadsden State Community College is inviting prospective students to attend one of their four upcoming Preview Days.

During these Preview Days, prospective students can take guided campus tours to learn more about the variety of programs offered by Gadsden State. A panel of current students will also be available to answer prospective students questions.

Parents are encouraged to attend with their students, said Andy Green, dean of Student Services. Preview Day is an opportunity for our communities to see what it truly means to join the Cardinal family while taking the first steps towards an educational journey at Gadsden State.

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Green added that the Preview Days are designed to give prospective students the chance to connect with faculty, staff and current students, and to decide if Gadsden State is the right fit for them.

Kimberly Farr announces candidacy for Trussville City Council

Here are the dates that preview days will be hosted at each campus:

Ayers Campus  March 3 from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m.

East Broad Campus  April 3 from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Wallace Drive Campus  April 3 from 9. a.m.- 12 p.m.

Valley Street Campus  April 9 from 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.

Gadsden State Cherokee Campus  April 14 from 9- 11 a.m.

The April 3 Preview Day for the East Broad and Wallace Drive campuses will offer additional activities for those who attend. From 11 a.m.- 1 p.m., prospective students will be invited to visit the Cardinal Cafe to eat lunch with current students. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., they can also visit the East Broad Campus One Stop Center to shop at the bookstore and get assistance with their FAFSA application. Popcorn and drinks will also be provided to attendees.

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Prospective students are also invited to watch the Gadsden State softball team play against Northeast Alabama Community College. There will be two games at 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. on April 3.

More information on Gadsden States Preview Days, as well as registration, can be found here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42.
A delicate truce between Israel and Hamas hangs by a thread after Israel blocked humanitarian aid into Gaza, in response to Hamas rejecting a new Israeli proposal to extend the ceasefire without any commitment to end the war or fully withdraw troops.

Hamas has accused Israel of violating the agreement, calling its decision to halt humanitarian aid cheap blackmail and a war crime.

Fifty-nine hostages remain in Gaza after the return of four bodies last week. Of the 59, 24 are thought to be alive, according to Israeli authorities.

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Meanwhile, aid groups and the United Nations have slammed the Israeli announcement to halt aid, with Egypt, a mediator in the ceasefire deal, saying it unequivocally rejects the politicization of humanitarian aid and its exploitation as a tool of blackmail.

US President Donald Trumps Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff plans to return to the Middle East in the coming days to work out either a way to extend Phase I or advance to Phase II of the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal, a US State Department spokesperson said on Monday.

Heres what we know about the agreement and the hurdles it is facing.

What the deal says

The ceasefire deal is meant to take place in three phases.

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On January 19, the first phase of the agreement came into effect. It lasted 42 days and expired last weekend.

The first phase was intended to free 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and an influx of aid into Gaza.

Ultimately, Hamas released 38 hostages over 39 days.

Israel released 1,737 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including 120 women and children. Some had been convicted of serious crimes including murder. The majority had been detained and held without any charge.

Palestinians sheltering in tents set up near the rubble of buildings, in Gaza City, February 26. - Dawoud Abu Alkas/Reuters

Israeli forces also withdrew to Gazas border regions, leaving all urban centers and a key corridor splitting the enclave in half.

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A second, 42-day ceasefire phase was meant to see a commitment to permanently ending the war, the withdrawal of all Israeli troops from Gaza, and the release of all living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

The exact details of phase two were meant to have been decided during the first phase. The second phase was supposed to have begun Sunday.

The ceasefire agreement stipulates that the truce can continue so long as negotiators are talking. The two sides were meant to begin talks on a permanent end to the war in early February. However, weeks have passed and its unclear if they have started.

On Friday, an Israeli delegation abruptly returned from Cairo, one day after arriving there. A Hamas spokesperson over the weekend said there were currently no negotiations underway on the second phase, blaming Israel for the failure to start talks.

What Israel is saying

Israel now wants to extend the first phase of the deal for another 42 days to continue the exchange of hostages, alive and deceased, in return for the continued release of Palestinian prisoners and the flow of higher volumes of aid into Gaza  but without any commitment to permanently ending the war.

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the proposed extension, which would run through the Islamic month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover, was an idea put forward by Witkoff. Passover ends in mid-April.

There has been no word from Witkoff or the Trump administration on the revised plan, nor on Israels assertion that suspending aid for Gaza was agreed with Washington.

Israel said Hamas rejected the proposal, and in return, halted all humanitarian aid into the strip.

In light of Hamas refusal to accept the (US envoy Steve) Witkoff framework for continuing the talks  which Israel had agreed to  Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be stopped, Netanyahus office said Sunday.

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The Israeli Prime Ministers office (PMO) warned of additional consequences if Hamas continues to refuse to accept the proposal. Israel would not allow a ceasefire without the release of the remaining hostages, the statement added.

What Hamas is saying

Hamas is seeking negotiations on a permanent ceasefire and the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza under the second stage of the truce, accusing Israel of ongoing manipulation with its proposed extension of phase one.

The group lambasted Israels announcement and appealed to mediators to pressure Israel into ending its punitive and immoral measures.

Hamas also said the proposed extension is a blatant attempt to evade the agreement and evade entering into negotiations for its second phase, adding that the only way to return the hostages is to adhere to the agreement, immediately enter into negotiations to start the second stage, and the occupations commitment to implement its pledges.

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We reaffirm our commitment to implementing the signed agreement in its three stages, and we have repeatedly announced our readiness to begin negotiations for the second stage of the agreement, the group added on Sunday.

What others are saying

Israel has framed the extension proposal as a US-led effort. It is unclear which country initiated the proposal, but White House National Security Council spokesperson Brian Hughes has expressed support for Israel.

Israel has negotiated in good faith since the beginning of this administration to ensure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas terrorists. We will support their decision on next steps given Hamas has indicated its no longer interested in a negotiated ceasefire, Hughes said.

Israels blocking of aid was however slammed by many of the international community, including mediators of the deal, the UN and aid groups.

A Palestinian girl looks out from the ruins of her family's destroyed house where she takes shelter, in Jabalia refugee camp in the northern Gaza Strip on February 13. - Mahmoud Issa/Reuters

Egypt said it unequivocally rejects the politicization of humanitarian aid and its exploitation as a tool of blackmail. It called on the international community to take decisive action to compel the Israeli government to allow the unconditional entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

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Qatar said it categorically rejects the use of food as war weapon and starvation of civilians.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (OCHA), Tom Fletcher, said on X that Israels decision to halt aid into Gaza is alarming.

International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid, he said, adding that the ceasefire must hold.

What happens next?

The fate of dozens of Israeli hostages and tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza now remains unclear amid fears that the ceasefire may collapse.

Netanyahu remains under pressure by far-right ministers of his government to return to war, a prospect that may be met with less opposition under the new Trump administration.

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In a press release, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum appealed to Trump that a deal be finalized, bringing all hostages home.

Representatives of the hostages families implored that negotiations continue without delay and pressed for finalizing a comprehensive deal to secure the immediate release of all hostages in a single phase, emphasizing that time is running out for those still in captivity, the press release said. President Trump, bring us a better deal, a safer deal. No stages, no phases. One deal to bring everyone home.

In a development likely seen as provocative by Hamas, an Israel source told CNN last week that Israel will not withdraw its forces from the Gaza-Egypt border  the so-called Philadelphi Corridor  as would be required under a potential second phase of a ceasefire with Hamas.

Displaced Palestinians staying in makeshift tents in the al-Mawasi area try to meet their daily needs by filling water jerry cans with water distributed by tankers in Khan Younis, Gaza on Sunday. - Ashraf Amra/Anadolu/Getty Images

Meanwhile, Gazas population of more than 2 million is at risk of losing the little aid it received during the ceasefire deal.

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While the overall aid entering Gaza has increased since the ceasefire started, restrictions by Israeli authorities on critical supplies are hindering the humanitarian response, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), also known as Doctors without Borders, said. Most of the aid that entered was food and fuel, not nearly enough to meet the peoples immense needs.

Reuters footage on Sunday showed lines of trucks at Gazas Rafah crossing with Egypt awaiting entry after Israels declaration that humanitarian aid is now allowed in.

The shaky ceasefire was coupled with Israeli strikes on the north and south of the strip over the weekend, which Palestinian health authorities said killed four people.

Through the ceasefire, Israel has continued to fire on Palestinians it says are violating the truce or threatening its troops.

The Israel Defense Forces said the targets were identified planting an explosive device in the area.

CNNs Jeremy Diamond, Lauren Kent and Eric Levenson, Tim Lister, Edward Szekeres, Caitlin Danaher, Abeer Salman, Kareem Khadder, Jo Shelley and Jennifer Hansler contributed reporting.

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It will probably take weeks to sort out the death of actor Gene Hackman and his wife as authorities revealed new details about the case.

The Oscar winner and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead with one of the familys three dogs in their New Mexico home by maintenance workers on Wednesday. Authorities said that there were no obvious signs of foul play but that the circumstances of their deaths warranted further investigation.

Where does the investigation go from here?

Besides work from the medical examiner, investigators are looking at pills found at the scene and the couples cellphones to piece together the last days of their lives.

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Well be analyzing cellphone data, phone calls, text messages, events, photos in the cellphone, to try to piece a timeline together, Santa Fe Sheriff County Adan Mendoza said Friday.

Read more: Gene Hackman likely dead over a week before being found, sheriff says

Investigators removed two phones, blood pressure and thyroid medications, Tylenol, medical records and a 2025 monthly planner from the home, according to a search warrant summary.

The New Mexico Gas Co. did not find any outstanding issues in the home after an extensive investigation for leaks or other issues with the gas lines. The utility company did find a "minuscule leak" in a stove burner, but it was not enough to emit a lethal amount of carbon monoxide, the sheriff's office said Tuesday. The information was passed on to the medical investigator's office. The utility company also found several code enforcement violations, but those did not involve gas leaks.

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In the coming days, investigators will build a timeline for when the couple were last seen alive and try to evaluate who spoke to them last. Mendoza described Hackman and Arakawa as private individuals who kept to themselves. There are no security cameras inside or outside the home for the investigators to draw upon, Mendoza said Friday.

Maintenance workers told investigators that they last spoke to the couple about two weeks before their bodies were found. Arakawa mainly communicated with the workers via text message or in phone calls.

Gene Hackman appears on a screen during Sunday's Academy Awards ceremony. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times)

How was the couple found?

Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65, were found by a pair of maintenance workers in their housing community shortly before 2 p.m. on Wednesday.

The workers then notified a community caretaker, who went to the home and then called 911.

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The caretaker didnt have all the information when he called but said he was looking through a window at two bodies lying on the floor inside.

The caller can be heard on audio telling the dispatcher that he could see what appeared to be two motionless bodies inside the house. Shaken, he repeatedly says damn and urges authorities to rapidly respond.

Read more: Emotional 911 call follows discovery of mummified bodies of Gene Hackman and wife

No, they are not moving. Please send someone out here quick, the caller says.

Hackmans body was found on the floor near the kitchen with a walking cane and a pair of sunglasses nearby, according to a court affidavit. Arakawas body was found in a bathroom by the homes main entrance, and prescription pills were scattered on a nearby countertop. Mendoza said he could not release details about the prescriptions due to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.

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The positioning of the couples bodies indicated that they may have suddenly fallen, according to the affidavit.

A German shepherd was found dead inside the home while two other dogs were alive on the property and able to enter the residence through a door at the back. The dogs cause of death is unknown.

Read more: Emotional 911 call follows discovery of mummified bodies of Gene Hackman and wife

How did they die?

The cause of the couple's deaths is still under investigation.

Initial autopsy results ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning and found no signs of blunt force trauma on the couples bodies, Mendoza said.

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The medical examiner will make a ruling on the official cause of death after receiving full toxicology and autopsy results  a process that he said could take months. Mendoza said at a news conference Friday that Feb. 17 was the last day Hackmans pacemaker showed activity and that it is a very good assumption that it was his last day of life.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A Georgia Senate bill which would formally ban any and all programs, initiatives or activities that support diversity, equity and inclusion on public school, college and university campuses passed in committee.

It now moves forward to a floor vote.

Senate Bill 120 would block any programs, activities or support for DEI that go beyond rights guaranteed by the 14th Amendment of the United States Constitutions equal protection clause.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

TRENDING STORIES:

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According to the bill text, any Georgia public schools, local education agencies or any university or college that is part of the states higher education system could lose state funds and state-managed federal funds if they violate SB 120s rules.

This would include both direct funding for the institution and funding for scholarships, loans or grants, according to the bill.

If passed by both the Georgia Senate and Georgia House of Representatives, and then approved by Gov. Brian Kemp, SB 120 would take effect July 1 and would apply to the 2025-2026 school year.

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Hospital staff, care workers and emergency responders are set to go on strike in Germany on Thursday in the latest round of walkouts by public sector workers amid a brewing wage dispute.

The verdi trade union on Monday called for a strike amid collective bargaining negotiations with the federal government in Berlin and local authorities across the country.

It warned that German residents should expect disruption to care in hospitals and other facilities on Thursday.

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"Most people in this country are aware of what employees in hospitals and care facilities, psychiatric wards and emergency services do for society every day," said union official Sylvia Buhler.

Verdi is demanding an 8% pay rise - worth a minimum of 350 ($365) - for public sector workers, as well as higher bonuses and three additional days off.

Employers have rejected the demands as unaffordable ahead of a further round of talks from March 14 to March 16.

The negotiations cover employees across a wide range of sectors, with a strike by airport staff having caused major disruption at Munich Airport last week.
By Andreas Rinke and Christian Kraemer

BERLIN (Reuters) -The prospect of a military spending boom by Germany unprecedented since the Cold War sent Europe's defence stocks soaring after Reuters reported the likely next government was mulling a fiscal sea change for Europe's biggest economy.

Germany's likely next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, did not confirm that his conservatives and the Social Democrats were considering setting up special funds worth nearly a trillion euros to finance urgent defence and infrastructure spending.

But he said spending decisions had to be taken "with great urgency" after U.S. President Donald Trump and his deputy harangued Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in the Oval Office on Friday, crystalising European fears about what some leaders view as Washington's biggest policy reversal since World War Two.

"We must now show that we are in a position to act independently in Europe," he said, adding that he hoped the parties could reach an agreement before Thursday's European defence summit.

News of the proposed funds prompted double-digit percentage rises in shares in defence contractors - including Thyssenkrupp, Hensoldt, Renk, Rheinmetall, BAE Systems and Leonardo - on Monday morning.

Sources told Reuters on Sunday that the parties were considering special funds for defence and infrastructure, and that economists had proposed to them that these be worth 400 billion euros ($417 billion) and 500 billion euros in size respectively. These sums combined would amount to 20% of German GDP.

"There is an enormous need for investment and we won't create consent for it if we just invest in defence," SPD General Secretary Matthias Miersch said on Monday. "The two need to be considered together."

If confirmed, it would amount to an extra 2% of economic output in spending over the next 10 years, kicking in from next year.

"This would be about as much as the country has invested in East Germany since reunification," three decades ago, Deutsche Bank wrote. "It would be a fiscal regime shift of historic proportions."

Bild newspaper reported that an extraordinary session of parliament might be called for next Monday, which would allow the measure to be passed with the backing of the Greens - who on Monday urged Chancellor Olaf Scholz's outgoing government to approve a further 3 billion euros' funding for Ukraine.

UNJAMMING THE BRAKE?

After the new parliament is seated this month, the defence-sceptical Left party's support will be needed to reach the necessary two-thirds majority if all parties stick with their commitment not to work with the second-placed, far-right, Kremlin-friendly Alternative for Germany (AfD).
A major police operation was under way in the south-western German city of Mannheim on Monday, the city's police headquarters announced.

According to eyewitnesses, a vehicle drove into a crowd. A dpa reporter at the scene witnessed a person being covered by a sheet among debris.

The police said the incident occurred at the Paradeplatz square in the city centre and that an investigation was in full swing. No information could yet be provided about a possible perpetrator or the background to the incident.

Police asked people to avoid the city centre and warned of traffic disruptions.
German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has expressed his "deepest sympathy" for the relatives of victims of the fatal incident in the city of Mannheim on Monday.

Two people were killed and several others injured when a man drove a car into a crowd of people in Mannheim's city centre.

"It is terrible what they have to go through," Steinmeier said via his spokeswoman on X.

The president wished those injured a speedy recovery and thanked the police and emergency services.

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Germany's presumptive next chancellor, Friedrich Merz, also offered his condolences. "My thoughts are with the victims and their families," the conservative leader posted on X.

"The incident - like the terrible acts of the past few months - is a stark reminder that we must do everything we can to prevent such acts," he wrote, adding that Germany must become a safe country again.

The alleged driver, a 40-year-old German citizen, has been detained.
WINDHOEK, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Namibia will introduce an online visa application system on April 1 to improve efficiency and convenience for travelers, Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security Albert Kawana said on Monday.

"The system is aimed at improving service delivery and convenience to our visitors, including businesspeople," Kawana said. The new platform is expected to reduce congestion at entry points, facilitating smoother access for tourists and investors.

The Namibian government has also revised its visa policy based on reciprocity, affecting travelers from 33 countries, including the United States, Britain, Germany, and Australia. "Reciprocity means that if you require a visa from a Namibian citizen, we will also require a visa from your citizens," Kawana said.

The minister reaffirmed Namibia's commitment to welcoming visitors. "This does not mean that we are discouraging visitors. On the contrary, we want to facilitate their entry."

Namibia has been working to attract foreign investment in key sectors such as tourism, mining, and renewable energy to strengthen its economy. The new visa system aligns with broader initiatives across Africa to modernize immigration processes and promote economic cooperation. 
Germany could rush measures to finance a huge hike in spending on defence and military aid for Ukraine through its outgoing parliament, as the country scrambles to form a government amid signs of a dramatic shift in US foreign policy.

Germany cannot wait for the next Bundestag - the country's lower house of parliament - to come together in late March, a top lawmaker from the conservative CDU/CSU bloc told public radio Deutschlandfunk early on Monday. The bloc is set to take power in Berlin.

"We cannot lose time until the new Bundestag convenes," Johann Wadephul said. "Ukraine cannot wait for weeks. The free world cannot wait for weeks."

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Germany, under the departing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, has taken a back seat as Britain and France attempt to soothe relations with US President Donald Trump following the stunning Oval Office showdown with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky last Friday.

Friedrich Merz, the presumptive next German chancellor, wants a government in place by the Easter holidays. His preference is for a coalition between his centre-right alliance - made up of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and the Bavaria-only Christian Social Union (CSU) - and Scholz's Social Democrats (SPD).

But Berlin must get its act together quickly and take on a leading role in Europe to support Ukraine, said Wadephul.

"We will do everything we can to convince the American administration" of the need to back Kiev against Russia, he insisted, adding that Merz would seek to build a "good personal relationship" with Trump.

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European leaders were dismayed at the stunning showdown in the White House on Friday, which saw Trump dress down Zelensky and threaten to withdraw US support for Ukraine if he does not agree to a peace deal with Russia.

Britain and France have taken the lead in attempting to mend ties, with Germany under outgoing Chancellor Scholz unable to provide leadership at a crucial time for Europe.

New emergency fund for defence?

Wadephul said a new emergency fund - modelled on the 100 billion ($104 billion) pot for the German military that was passed shortly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine three years ago - is under discussion in Berlin.

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Such a move would require a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag, due to the country's tight constitutional rules on government borrowing, known as the debt brake.

However, more than one-third of seats in the incoming parliament are set to be taken by lawmakers from the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and The Left, two parties that the CDU/CSU bloc have ruled out working with.

One option to bypass the issue would be to pass the reforms under the current Bundestag.

"We are ready for that, and we hear many voices, including from the Greens and the Free Democrats, that there is also recognition and readiness to support this," said Wadephul, the CDU/CSU alliance's spokesman on foreign policy and defence.

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Wadephul acknowledged his party's "sceptical position" towards changes to the debt brake.

"We must not spend more money as if there were no tomorrow, despite all the challenges we are currently facing," he argued. "Which is not to say that we are not prepared to hold talks. This is happening behind closed doors."
(Bloomberg) -- German Chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz said he wants a deal with the Social Democrats on boosting defense spending before European Union leaders meet in Brussels on Thursday.

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Merz, who heads the opposition conservatives, told reporters his CDU/CSU bloc and the SPD would continue discussions on military investment later on Monday, part of a wider effort aimed at sealing a ruling coalition following his victory in last months election.

He said bolstering Germanys defenses has become even more urgent following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiys clash with his US counterpart, Donald Trump, at the White House last week, which heightened fears America will pull back from the NATO military alliance.

The urgency from my point of view is great, Merz said after a meeting of party leaders in Berlin. But I cant tell you either the path or give you any numbers, its all open, he added, characterizing the talks so far as very good and constructive.

Markets are closely watching the developments in Berlin and in other European capitals and assessing the outlook for a big jump in defense spending that would lead to a significant increase in government borrowing.

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German debt led Mondays selloff, taking the rate on the nations 30-year securities up 12 basis points, the most in almost a year, to hit 2.82%.

Over the weekend, leaders from across Europe, including outgoing German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, gathered in London to discuss new pledges for military investment and reiterated their ongoing support for Ukraine in its defense against Russias invasion.

Bloomberg reported last week that the CDU/CSU and the SPD are discussing as much as 200 billion ($208 billion) for a special defense fund that could be approved in the old parliament before the newly elected legislature meets for the first time at the end of this month.

Merz denied that there was an agreement on convening the Bundestag, the lower house in Berlin, next Monday, as reported earlier in local media.

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Matthias Miersch, the SPD general secretary, said Monday in an interview with RTL/ntv that the party wants a broader investment drive that includes spending on infrastructure as well as on the Bundeswehr armed forces.

The CDUs secretary general, Carsten Linnemann, said he was unaware of figures first mentioned in a weekend report by Reuters, which suggested CDU/CSU and SPD officials were considering setting up two special funds potentially worth hundreds of billions of euros each, one for defense and a second for infrastructure.

Economists advising the parties estimate as much as 400 billion is needed for the defense fund and up to 500 billion euros for the infrastructure fund, according to a person familiar with their advice, who asked not to be identified discussing confidential information.

Merz has said that he wants to form a government by mid-April. Unlike in the US or UK, parties in Europes biggest economy usually need to team up with another party to form a coalition that has a parliamentary majority. Those talks can drag on until party negotiators agree on a joint policy platform.

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EU leaders will meet in Brussels Thursday to discuss a military aid package for Ukraine and steps to boost security spending.

--With assistance from James Hirai and Michael Nienaber.

(Updates with detail on funds in 12th paragraph.)

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Germany on Monday mourned the death of Bernhard Vogel, a political titan who led state governments on both sides of the country's former divide.

Vogel, from the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has died at the age of 92, the party confirmed.

He was the premier of two states for a combined 23 years, a record that cemented his legacy as a leading figure in German politics around the time of reunification in 1990.

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Former chancellor Angela Merkel once described Vogel as "historically unique" for having led governments in both the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate and in the eastern state of Thuringia, once part of communist East Germany.

Friedrich Merz, the country's presumptive next chancellor, described Vogel on Monday as a "bridge builder between East and West" who "leaves a lasting legacy."

Vogel's political career began in the 1960s, when he formed close ties with Helmut Kohl, who later became the first chancellor of reunified Germany.

Vogel became premier of Rhineland-Palatinate in 1976, before losing an internal power struggle in 1988.

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After a stint as chairman of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, a leading conservative think tank associated with the CDU, Vogel returned to power in a vastly different context in Thuringia in 1992, replacing a CDU leader who was accused of having worked for the Stasi, the East German security service.

He led the state until his retirement from politics in 2003.

"The idea of becoming premier in another German state was so far-fetched that nobody had had it for a long time," said Vogel in 2022. "I hadn't imagined it would be so difficult," he added.
Germany's largest Carnival parade on Shrove Monday, known in Germany as Rose Monday, kicked off in the western German city of Cologne on Monday morning.

This year's festivities come amid a tense security situation following a string of deadly attacks in recent months, but Cologne police president Johannes Hermanns told dpa ahead of the parade that he wasn't worried.

Police would ensure a peaceful celebration with many colleagues on duty, he said.

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Despite a recent call for attacks on social media, the police chief said the authorities considered this to be scaremongering.

Police have adjusted their security plans, with a significant number of officers present in the city, and all possible measures have been taken to ensure safety, Hermanns said.

Marc Michelske, head of Cologne's Shrove Monday parade, also said he felt "very relaxed," adding that it was important to show resilience against intimidation.

Carnival celebrations in Germany kicked off on Thursday as huge costumed crowds began cutting loose amid tightened security, especially in the twin Carnival capitals of Cologne and Dusseldorf.

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Parties and parades continued through the weekend, culminating in the Shrove Monday parades before festivities come to an end on Ash Wednesday, which in the Christian calendar marks the beginning of the Lenten season of prayer, fasting and atonement.

The parade in Cologne covers a distance of 8.5 kilometres, with about 12,500 participants distributing about 300 tons of sweets to costumed revellers lining the route.

The festivities kicked off to bright sunshine, with satirical carnival floats depicting US President Donald Trump putting a leash on democracy and the rule of law, and Elon Musk on a seesaw with German far-right leader Alice Weidel.

In the south-western city of Mainz, another Carnival stronghold, the Shrove Monday parade set off with hundreds of thousands expected to line the 7.2-kilometre route through the city centre.
The German city of Mannheim has cancelled several Carnival events after a car drove into a crowd in the city centre on Monday, killing two people.

The Carnival parades planned for Tuesday in the suburbs of Feudenheim, Neckarau and Sandhofen will not take place, the city announced. The street Carnival in the city centre and the Carnival market at the nearby water town have also been cancelled.

The nearby city of Heidelberg announced earlier on Monday that it had cancelled its Carnival procession in the wake of the incident in Mannheim.

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Mannheim Lord Mayor Christian Specht ordered the flags on municipal buildings to be lowered to half-mast. "This horrific, inhuman attack on peaceful people has deeply shocked us all," he said.

According to information obtained by dpa, the alleged driver, a German national, was detained and is now in hospital with injuries. The police do not assume there were other perpetrators involved.

Carnival festivities began in Germany on Thursday and run until Ash Wednesday, which in the Christian calendar marks the beginning of the Lenten season of prayer, fasting and atonement.
German conservative leader Friedrich Merz, the presumptive next chancellor, believes US President Donald Trump and his vice president, JD Vance, deliberately provoked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during their fiery White House exchange.

Merz said on Monday that he had watched last week's public shouting match several times.

"In my opinion, it was not a spontaneous reaction to interruptions by Zelensky, but obviously a deliberate escalation," he said.

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During the Oval Office blow-up on Friday, Trump dismissed Ukraine's position in the war started by Russia, arguing that Zelensky did not "have the cards" to dictate how Washington should engage with Moscow. He also described Zelensky as "disrespectful" and ungrateful.

Zelensky - arms folded, visibly frustrated and at times interrupting Trump and Vance - countered that "there would be no compromises with a killer on our territory" and accused Trump of jeopardizing both Ukrainian and US security with his approach to Russia.

Merz, speaking to members of his Christian Democrats in Berlin, said he was "somewhat surprised" by the tone of all three leaders, adding: "That did not help matters."

He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that "we do everything we can to keep the Americans in Europe," as concerns grow that Trump could order a withdrawal of US troops from Germany.

Merz also stated that he would only consider travelling to Washington after being sworn in as chancellor. Exploratory coalition talks between his conservative bloc and their centre-left rivals, the Social Democrats, began late last week. Merz says he aims to have his government in place by late April.
German conservative leader Friedrich Merz, the presumptive next chancellor, believes US President Donald Trump and his vice president, JD Vance, deliberately provoked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during their fiery White House exchange.

Merz said on Monday that he had watched last week's public shouting match several times.

"In my opinion, it was not a spontaneous reaction to interruptions by Zelensky, but obviously a deliberate escalation," he said.

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During the Oval Office blow-up on Friday, Trump dismissed Ukraine's position in the war started by Russia, arguing that Zelensky did not "have the cards" to dictate how Washington should engage with Moscow. He also described Zelensky as "disrespectful" and ungrateful.

Zelensky - arms folded, visibly frustrated and at times interrupting Trump and Vance - countered that "there would be no compromises with a killer on our territory" and accused Trump of jeopardizing both Ukrainian and US security with his approach to Russia.

Merz, speaking to members of his Christian Democrats in Berlin, said he was "somewhat surprised" by the tone of all three leaders, adding: "That did not help matters."

He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that "we do everything we can to keep the Americans in Europe," as concerns grow that Trump could order a withdrawal of US troops from Germany.

Kuleba: US-brokered peace deal still possible

Meanwhile, former Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba does not rule out a US-brokered peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia, even after the incident at the White House.

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Trump has made a ceasefire in Ukraine "too central to his foreign policy to not succeed," he wrote in a guest article in the New York Times on Monday.

Kuleba's article stated that "Trump, trapped by his own ambition, craves fast success," adding that Zelensky's insistence on security guarantees during the meeting with Trump had stood in the way of this goal.

He emphasized that Ukraine is also interested in an agreement: "It just doesnt want to end up destroyed by the peace terms."

Kuleba stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin could not tolerate an independent Ukraine as it poses a threat to his autocratic model of governance. "If Ukraine is still independent and armed by the end of negotiations, Mr Putin will not see that as the end." Without security guarantees, the war would eventually resume, he added.

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Kuleba said Europe could not entirely replace US support but it could offer Ukraine a raw materials deal themselves and use frozen Russian assets to finance arms shipments.

"Moscow never really changes, but Europe still might," Kuleba wrote.

Group of Five stands behind Ukraine

Representatives of Germany, France, Britain, Italy and Poland reaffirmed their political and military aid for Ukraine on Monday.

The NATO members convened via video in the Group of Five defence cooperation format.

"All agree that [Ukraine] can rely on the continued and broad support of the Group of Five," the German Defence Ministry said in a statement after the meeting.

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The next meeting of the Group of Five is scheduled for March 12 in Paris.

Kremlin: Zelensky shows 'complete lack of diplomatic skills'

In Russia, the Kremlin criticized Zelensky for his heated Oval Office meeting, saying the Ukrainian president showed a "complete lack of diplomatic skills."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Russian news agency Interfax that the exchange was "unprecedented," in comments released on Monday.

He said Putin had watched Friday's meeting.

Peskov said the talks between Trump and Zelensky had shown how difficult it would be to achieve a peace deal in the conflict. "The regime in Kiev and Zelensky do not want peace. They want the war to continue," Peskov said, echoing statements made by Trump on Friday.
Leaders of Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) will not appear at traditional events to mark Ash Wednesday as they focus on negotiations to form a government in Berlin.

The SPD is "prepared to negotiate and talk all week," said co-leader Lars Klingbeil on Monday.

Germany celebrates the first day of Lent on Ash Wednesday, which also marks the end of the festive Carnival season.

The date is also an important one on the political calendar, as high-profile figures from all parties traditionally roast each other in televised events often held in beer halls.

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This year's edition comes less than 10 days after outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz's SPD suffered a historic defeat in national elections on February 23, sliding to third place with 16.4% of the vote.

The centre-left party is beginning talks to become the junior partner in a coalition with the conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) and the Bavaria-only Christian Social Union (CSU).

The negotiations are set to be delicate, and a public airing of grievances during political Ash Wednesday would likely be unhelpful in building trust between the parties.

Klingbeil said the next government must tackle Germany's biggest problems, highlighting the country's crumbling infrastructure, sluggish economic growth, the high cost of living and surging rent prices.

Disagreements over how to fund an increase in government spending were at the heart of the election campaign, and could yet prove stumbling blocks in negotiations.
After its historic election defeat, Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) plans to elect its new leadership at a party conference in June, six months earlier than planned.

In addition to the party leadership and the election result, the party conference will focus on a "roadmap for the strategic, programmatic and organizational positioning of the SPD for the 2029 federal election," the party said of the decision, Berlin's Tagesspiegel newspaper reported on Monday.

It is unclear whether the party's two current leaders, Lars Klingbeil and Saskia Esken, plan to stand for re-election.

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The SPD was dealt a crushing blow in the recent parliamentary election, receiving 16.4% of the vote, its worst result in a national election in 138 years.

Following the first projections on election night, the 47-year-old Klingbeil called for a generational change within the SPD. A few hours later, SPD lawmakers elected him as the leader of the party's parliamentary group.

The 63-year-old Esken meanwhile said that she wanted to remain party leader for the time being.

The duo is currently jointly leading the nine-member SPD team in exploratory talks about forming a government with the conservative alliance of the Christian Democrats and the Christian Social Union, which won the election in February.

An exact date for the SPD party conference in June has not yet been decided.

Saskia Esken, Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), arrives for exploratory talks between the Germany's conservative CDU/CSU bloc and SPD after the federal elections. Michael Kappeler/dpa
BERLIN (Reuters) - Germany's Social Democrats (SPD) said foreign policy and defence must take priority in talks led by their conservative rivals to form a new coalition government but declined to give details on how a ramping-up in defence spending would be financed.

"Europe must become stronger. We need more money for the German armed forces and we also need to look at how we can make progress on security policy issues," said SPD parliamentary leader Lars Klingbeil, adding that the parties' negotiations must be confidential.

Economists advising the parties estimate around 400 billion euros ($415 billion) is needed for the defence fund and 400 billion to 500 billion euros for a separate infrastructure fund, sources told Reuters at the weekend.

(Reporting by Rachel More; Editing by Ludwig Burger)
TRIPOLI, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Libya launched a new public bidding round for oil and gas exploration for the first time in 17 years, Acting Chairman of the state-owned Libyan National Oil Corporation Masoud Sulaiman announced on Monday.

This round of bidding, which includes more than 24 zones, will enhance Libya's position among the world's oil countries, and help achieve the goal of reaching oil production of 2 million barrels per day (bpd), Sulaiman said during the bidding launch ceremony. "We called on oil companies in the world to participate in this round to invest in Libya."

Libyan Prime Minister Abdul-Hamed Dbeibah said, "This is a clear message that Libya has returned to being a main front for oil and gas investment, within a modern and transparent investment environment that reflects the stability of the country."

Oil and Gas Minister Khalifa Abdul Sadiq stressed the government's keensess towards the new bidding round.

"This round is ... a clear sign that Libya has strongly returned to the international arena. This round does not just reflect our desire to attract investment, but also our keenness to create long-term strategic partnerships that contribute to continued production and energy infrastructure," Abdul Sadiq said.

Libya is among Africa's largest oil producers and a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. However, it has been repeatedly disrupted by conflicts and political turmoil since the fall of its late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

In 2010, Libya's average oil production was around 1.8 million bpd. In 2023, it was around 1.27 million bpd. 
Leaders of Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) have said they will not appear at traditional Ash Wednesday events as they focus on negotiations to form a government in Berlin.

The SPD is "prepared to negotiate and talk all week," co-leader Lars Klingbeil said on Monday.

The first day of the Christian fasting season of Lent starts on Wednesday, known as Ash Wednesday, which also marks the end of the festive Carnival season.

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The date is also an important one in the German political calendar, with high-profile figures from all parties traditionally roasting each other in televised events, often held in beer halls.

This year's edition comes less than 10 days after outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz's SPD suffered a historic defeat in national elections on February 23, sliding to third place with 16.4% of the vote.

The centre-left party is in exploratory talks to become the junior partner in a coalition with the conservative Christian Democrats (CDU) and the Bavarian-only Christian Social Union (CSU).

The negotiations are expected to be delicate and a public airing of grievances during the political Ash Wednesday would be unlikely to help build trust between the parties.

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Klingbeil said the next government must tackle Germany's biggest problems, highlighting the country's crumbling infrastructure, sluggish economic growth, the high cost of living and surging rent prices.

Disagreements over how to fund an increase in government spending were at the heart of the election campaign and could yet prove stumbling blocks in negotiations.

Unlike the SPD, the CSU intends to go ahead with its event on Ash Wednesday in the southern city of Passau, with Bavarian Premier Markus Soder due to give a speech.

"Of course Ash Wednesday will take place," a party spokesman told dpa in Munich.
Peter Baker, New York Times Chief White House Correspondent and Steven Pifer, former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine joins Nicolle Wallace on Deadline White House to discuss the reaction from inside Russia, celebrating the events of last week involving Donald Trump and JD Vances ambush of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy which has left made the Russians feel like they have an ally rather than an adversary in the White House.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A teacher in Giles County accused of inappropriate contact with a minor was arrested over the weekend, according to law enforcement.

According to the Giles County Sheriffs Office, the director of Giles County Schools contacted deputies to report concerning suspicious activity that had been uncovered by staff.

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Authorities reported the information led to a Steven Hughes arrest Friday night, a now former teacher at Giles County High School. He was booked into jail and charged with solicitation of a minor.

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The sheriffs office said Hughes was not a longtime employee of the school, and was terminated following his arrest. According to the GCHS website, Hughes taught in the agriculture department. Officials added he was not a resident of Giles County.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Giles County School System released the following statement to News 2.

Mr. Hughes no longer works for the Giles County School System. This is an ongoing investigation and no further comments can be made at this time. Giles County School System

No additional information was immediately released.

The sheriffs office is asking victims who may have experienced inappropriate contact involving Hughes to call 931-363-3505.

 Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go.

 Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox.

 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
DENVER (KDVR)  Golden High School sent students home on Monday on a controlled release after reports of a student with a firearm.

At around 8:15 a.m., the Golden Police Department received a Safe2Tell report of a student holding what looks like a firearm in cafeteria.

The police department said students who arrived for classes were temporarily told to stay outside during the initial police response. The school said it was put on lockdown at 8:15 a.m. and remained on precautionary lockdown for about an hour during the investigation.

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According to the Golden Police Department, during the investigation, officers found the student in class and determined the reported weapon was a cardboard prop gun. The department said the prop gun was briefly shown to another student, but was not used to threaten others.

Golden police found a cardboard prop gun following a Safe2Tell report and precautionary lockdown at Golden High School on March 3. (Golden Police Department)

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Golden police said no criminal charges were to be filed, and school administrators are handling the incident.

After the police department and Jefferson Countys Department of School Safety conducted the initial sweep and investigation, the school said in an email that a controlled release was issued at 9:30 a.m. as authorities needed more time to clear the building.

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The city of Golden posted on X at 11 a.m. that the lockdown was lifted and the controlled release and evacuation were completed. However, there is still an active investigation.

Once our building is cleared, I will send a follow up message with details regarding how and when students can enter the school to gather their belongings, principal of Golden High School John Graham said in an email.

The school said the building is still evacuated and those with questions can contact the Department of School Safetys dispatch team at 303-982-2445. Parents and guardians are asked to keep an eye on communications from the school about resuming normal operations and any potential follow-ups.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Whether its a traffic violation, civil procedure or criminal court, many people find themselves in a courtroom and before a judge. How you act, dress and speak in those circumstances plays a role in the proceedings of your case.

Read next: Ohio begins step down process ahead of Mega Millions changes

WKBN First News court reporters have witnessed defendants getting reprimands from the judge for their appearance or behavior.

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Every court has rules of conduct, and some judges enforce those rules with different intensity. Its good to know what to expect and what the judge will appreciate from you and your attorney.

In Youngstown Municipal Court, besides the obvious rules, such as no use of electronic devices or loud talking, there are several clothing items prohibited: sleeveless shirts or dresses, ripped clothes or jeans, tops that are lowcut or show midriff, pajamas, headgear or hats, tank tops, shorts and clothing with vulgar or inappropriate writing  including marijuana leaves or any other drug-related pictures or messaging.

In Mahoning County, you are not required to wear a suit as the attorneys are required to do, but you should dress neatly and cleanly. Shorts, tank tops and torn clothing are not appropriate.

Violations of these rules vary by court and judge, but not only can it lead to a bad first impression, but you could get anything from a reprimand from the judge to getting fined or found in contempt of court.

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Courts across the Valley have similar rules, and they all do not allow children in court unless specifically arranged by the judge for testimony or other reasons.

Everyone is expected to arrive at least 15 minutes early and will have to go through a security search before entering.

Your attorney has specific rules, too, which are rules of conduct established by the Ohio Supreme Court. For instance, attorneys are expected to dress appropriately, keep their emotions in check, not show anger, and not interrupt opposing counsel or the judge. They are also expected not to celebrate or denounce a verdict once its delivered. Consequences for attorneys can be more severe than for defendants.

An attorney was taken into custody in 2016 after refusing to remove a Black Lives Matter pin in Youngstown Municipal Court, and a Civil Rights lawsuit was filed. An agreement was later reached between the parties and the case was dismissed.

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Its always best to check with the court that you are expected to appear in to find out what specific rules they may have.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH)  After a round of back-and-forths between Gov. Ned Lamont and Democratic legislative leaders over how much more spending the state can afford, the governor said Monday afternoon that he will veto portions of two bills passed last week by the legislature.

Lamont utilized a legal tool known as a line-item veto that allows him to single out specific portions of legislation. He utilized the line-item veto to reject $40 million intended for special education services and $3 million in proposed state funding for LGBTQ groups, refugee resettlement organizations and Planned Parenthood.

Lamont proposes to eliminate license fees for certain jobs

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The legislature went into session last week to pass the proposed spending on an expedited basis. The $40 million in special education funds was supported by an overwhelming bipartisan majority. The $3 million for Planned Parenthood and LGTBQ groups was passed in a separate bill largely on partisan lines.

Lamonts justification for the veto was rooted in a desire to adhere to the states system of spending controls, specifically a cap on overall state spending that the governor says would be violated by $43 million in new spending.

The governor characterized the mindset behind the proposed spending as, Buy it now, pay later, well figure out how were gonna do it.

Thats just the type of budgeting that got the state into the ditch over the last 20 years, Lamont said.

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But legislators in both parties push back on the notion that there is no room in the current budget for more spending.

Right now, the state has the resources to afford this investment in our children, State Sens. Martin Looney and Bob Duff, the two Democratic leaders in the State Senate, wrote following the governors veto.

This money does not subvert the caps, State Rep. Joe Polletta, the top House Republican on the legislatures tax-writing committee, said.

We have a large budget  $28 billion so to speak  Im sure we can find room for $40 million out of this budget, State Sen. Doug McCrory, a Democrat who co-chairs the legislatures Education Committee, said.

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That core disagreement over how much more additional spending the state can afford has set the governor on a political collision course with members of his own party as well as Republicans who would like to see special education funding flow back into their districts.

Many of those lawmakers fear that without state aid, towns and cities will be left with few options to grapple with the rising costs of special education.

This will fall back on the taxpayers locally, McCrory said.

Lamont responded to the notion that his veto amounted to a de facto property tax hike.

Well, you can say that about every piece of municipal aid we do, Lamont said. Its a two way street and they have an opportunity and a responsibility to try and hold down their costs as well.

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This Week in Connecticut: Advice for state lawmakers and Gov. Ned Lamont

The legislature now must weigh-in on these vetoes. They have the ability to override the governors veto through  votes in both chambers. Legislators will vote separately to override the vetoes of the $40 million of special education funding and the $3 million in funds for LGBTQ, immigrant and abortion rights groups. Democrats hold just over  of each chamber  meaning they could override both vetoes on their own if virtually all their members vote as a block.

Legislators have never overridden a veto from Gov. Lamont, though all signs point to a good chance of that happening for the first time on Wednesday when the vote on the special education funding is held.

State Rep. Matt Ritter, the speaker of the state House of Representatives, contrasted the deliberative process of Connecticuts legislature with the cacophony of conflict eminating from federal lawmakers in Washington. He also downplayed suggestions that this latest dust-up between Lamont and the leaders of his own party in the legislature represented any serious rifts attop the states Democratic apparatus.

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This is what a healthy democracy looks like and they should give it a try in Washington, Ritter said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
11th Judicial District Court Judge Brenna Clani-Washinawatok. (Courtesy photo)

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Friday announced appointments of two state district court judges, one in her hometown of Albuquerque and the other in the states northwest corner.

Matthew Chavez on March 15 will become a judge in the Second Judicial District Court in Albuquerque, which has a total of 30 judges.

Brenna Clani-Washinawatok on Saturday became a judge in the 11th Judicial District Court in Aztec and Gallup, which has eight judges in total.

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Chavez will leave his current post as chief legal counsel for the state Department of Public Safety. He was previously a public defender at the Law Offices of the Public Defenders Second Judicial District Office in Albuquerque, according to a news release from the governors office.

Chavez is taking the seat formerly held by Judge Stan Whitaker, who is retiring after 18 years on the bench.

Clani-Washinawatok is a child support hearing officer and has provided legal counsel to the New Mexico Health Care Authoritys Child Support Division for more than a decade, according to a news release.

An enrolled member of Navajo Nation, she is the first Native American to serve as an 11th Judicial District Court judge, according to a news release the court published in February.

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It is a great honor and humbling experience to serve the people of San Juan and McKinley counties as a judge, Clani-Washinawatok said in a statement. I am guided by the rule of law, and look forward to working with the dedicated employees and judges of the court to provide fair and impartial justice for all.

Clani-Washinawatok replaces Judge Daylene Marsh, who is also retiring after 12 years.

Both Chavez and Clani-Washinawatok graduated from the University of New Mexico School of Law. She was admitted to the State Bar of New Mexico in 2005, and he was admitted in 2012.

According to the law schools Judicial Nominating Commission, one vacancy remains in New Mexicos district courts: a seat on the bench at the 12th Judicial District Court in Alamogordo.

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The nominating commission for the court will meet on March 19 to screen the three people who have applied: Jane Elizabeth Granier, Albert Richard Greene III and Lori Lee Gibson Willard.

District court judges serve six-year terms and handle most of the state court systems trials, in which they rule on criminal prosecutions and resolve disputes in civil cases.

Their rulings can be appealed to the New Mexico Court of Appeals and, depending on the case, the New Mexico Supreme Court. District courts can also hear appeals of rulings by magistrate courts.

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JOHNSTOWN, Pa.  Generations of firefighters were remembered and revered Saturday as the Conemaugh Independence Fire Company celebrated its 130th anniversary.

Established in 1895, the department serves East Conemaugh Borough.

Its a great opportunity, Captain Rickey Price said during the banquet, held at East Taylor Township Volunteer Fire Company's social hall. Not many departments get to reach this as far as what we did.

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"All the work, all the members, all the efforts that these guys actually put into keeping this department that many years, the tradition, everything like that, its an honor to finally hit 130 and celebrate that with everybody.

There are about 30 active members, protecting a community that, like many local municipalities, has been decreasing in population for years.

Were a very close community, Chief Harry Skip Grove said. Were only a couple streets  thats all it is  down to probably a population of probably, like, a thousand people at the most.

Grove has been the chief since 1993. Before him, his uncle served as chief from 1966 to 1993. His father and grandfather were also chiefs.

Just to carry on that tradition all these years is just remarkable to me, Grove said.
Snow covers the ground at Oceti Sakowin Camp on the edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on Dec. 3, 2016, outside Cannon Ball, N.D. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

MANDAN, N.D.  Greenpeace provided supplies, intel and training to demonstrators who spent months camping near the Dakota Access Pipeline river crossing in south central North Dakota, employees said in video testimony played to a Morton County jury on Friday.

The organization brought supplies like tents, power tools, a van equipped with solar panels, cameras, binoculars and propane. They taught protesters about nonviolent direct action. As colder weather approached, they also helped to winterize the camp.

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Then-executive director of Greenpeace USA Annie Leonard characterized the environmental groups support of the 2016 and 2017 protests as massive in two emails shown to jurors.

But Morton County Sheriff Kyle Kirchmeier, the incident commander for the monthslong protests, indicated on the witness stand Friday he was not aware of Greenpeaces involvement.

Dakota Access Pipeline Developer Energy Transfer wants hundreds of millions of dollars in damages from Greenpeace. In the lawsuit  now on trial before a Morton County jury  Energy Transfer seeks to prove the environmental group secretly backed illegal behavior by protesters and conspired to wage a misinformation campaign against the company. It claims Greenpeaces efforts halted construction of the pipeline and left the company with a litany of unplanned expenses.

Greenpeace denies Energy Transfers allegations. Attorneys representing the environmental group say it only played a supporting role in the demonstrations, that Greenpeace does not condone violence and that its employees never spent much time at the protest camps.

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The case, which started its five-week trial Monday, is before Southwest Judicial District Judge James Gion.

Evidence presented in the trial so far indicates Greenpeace wasnt high on polices radar during the protests. Attorneys for Greenpeace introduced about 1,500 pages of law enforcement intel records from the demonstrations. One record from October 2016 identified organizations involved in the protest including the American Indian Movement, Native Lives Matter, Black Lives Matter and Anonymous, but didnt list Greenpeace.

Attorneys for Energy Transfer pointed to just one reference to Greenpeace in the intel records, which connects the organization to a December 2016 protest at the Morton County Law Enforcement Center.

Kirchmeier testified that the protest grew in size after Standing Rock Chair Dave Archambault invited people to join the effort. He said it also grew after a Sept. 3, 2016 clash between protesters and private security involving dogs and after the Oct. 27, 2016 law enforcement effort to push protesters off of private property and onto Army Corps land. Other reasons the sheriff said contributed to the growth of protest were the explosion of social media and the controversial nature of where the pipeline was sited, including that it crossed unceded Sioux Nation territory.

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Law enforcement first encountered in August 2016 lockbox devices  sometimes called sleeping dragons  which protesters used to tie themselves to equipment, Kirchmeier testified. He said the devices were used throughout the protests and were initially difficult for law enforcement to remove until they received training.

Kirchmeier testified he did not know who was providing the devices.

Depositions of Greenpeace employees that were played for jurors indicated that the organization provided 20 to 30 lockboxes to protesters.

Leonard said in her experience, lockboxes are usually used to attach people to one another. She said Greenpeace is opposed to violence and destruction of property.

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Leonard, who was not at the protest, declined to answer questions about whether it would ever be appropriate for lockboxes provided by Greenpeace to be used to stop construction.

Attorneys for Energy Transfer highlighted an email Leonard wrote Nov. 30, 2016 that said: We have provided massive support for this cause since day one in terms of people, material, support and funding.

When asked about the email, Leonard said massive is a relative term and that the organizations support for Standing Rock would not be considered massive when compared to how much it spends in the Arctic.

She also said in emails she raised $90,000 from foundations to support the demonstration. She said she raised the money in her personal capacity as an environmental activist, though Energy Transfers attorney pointed out she used her Greenpeace email.

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Energy Transfer also asked Leonard if she verified claims against the pipeline listed in a November 2016 letter sent to banks urging them to pull financing for the project. Greenpeace was one of hundreds of organizations that signed the letter. Leonard testified her staff would have verified the information in the letter but she could not recall the conversation at the time of the deposition, which was about eight years later.

In a video deposition, Greenpeace employee David Khoury said he served as a scout during the demonstrations. His job was to gather information for other protesters, he said.

Khoury said he discovered property near Bismarck where some of the construction equipment for the pipeline was stored.

This is some awesome spy sht, he wrote in one email shown to jurors. He noted at the time that the site could be a good place to set up a blockade.

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Khoury acknowledged some demonstrators committed acts of vandalism, but said he was not aware of this until after the fact. He said he also observed police violence against protesters during his visits.

He said he facilitated some protester trainings at the camp, which included admonitions against using violence.

Harmony Lambert, who worked as an activist training officer for Greenpeace, wrote in a blog post that the actions were crucial in pressuring a federal agency to halt progress on the pipeline in fall 2016. In the deposition, Lambert emphasized that the pressure was applied by the entire Indigenous-led movement, not solely the efforts of Greenpeace.

None of the Greenpeace employees testified in person Friday, but Greenpeace indicated it plans to call at least two of them to testify later.

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One of the Dakota Access Pipelines head planners also took the stand this week.

Michael Futch, who was the North Dakota project manager for the pipeline, told the jury the pipeline was designed to be as safe and unobtrusive as possible. Energy Transfer hired the best contractors, construction managers, inspectors and auditors in the business for the project, he said.

Futch said he believes some of Greenpeaces public statements about the pipeline may have harmed the project, but did not claim Greenpeace had a major presence at the camps.

He said allegations that the pipeline poses a threat to the environment are unfounded and malicious.

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The protests  which Futch characterized as violent  delayed the pipelines completion for months, he said.

Its the most complex and tortured pipeline project Ive ever had experience with, Futch said.

This story was originally published by the North Dakota Monitor. Like South Dakota Searchlight, its part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. North Dakota Monitor maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Amy Dalrymple for questions: info@northdakotamonitor.com.
ISLAMABAD, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan witnessed a sharp surge in civilian casualties across the country during the month of February 2025, according to a report released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) on Monday.

The report detailed that 79 terrorist attacks occurred last month, resulting in the deaths of 55 civilians and 47 security personnel, while 81 security personnel and 45 civilians sustained injuries during these incidents.

It is the first time since August 2024 that civilian deaths had surpassed those of security forces. Civilian deaths in February increased by 175 percent as compared to fatalities in January 2025, when 20 civilians lost their lives in such terrorist attacks.

In contrast, the deaths of security personnel fell by 18 percent from January when 57 security personnel lost their lives.

In response to the escalating threat, Pakistan's security forces have increased their counter-militancy operations by eliminating 156 terrorists, leaving 20 others injured and arresting 66 suspected terrorists.

The 66 arrests recorded in February have represented the highest monthly figure since December 2023, when 139 militants were detained, said the report.

The country's southwest Balochistan province emerged as the most volatile province, bearing the brunt of terrorist activities with 32 attacks followed by the northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which recorded 23 attacks. 
Donald Trump didnt invent the American tradition of ditching our friends like a bad prom date (ask the Kurds, Afghan interpreters or anyone who sat through Rambo: First Blood Part II). But since returning to office, hes taken this all-too-frequent bad habit and made it official U.S. policy.

The latest example? Trumps conclusion that Volodymyr Zelensky, the leader of Ukraine  you know, the country currently being turned into rubble by Russian missiles  is not ready for peace and that he disrespected the United States of America. This latter statement (made live on TV during a heated Oval Office meeting), came on the heels of Trump taking to social media to call him a dictator.

If irony were a renewable energy source, Trumps rhetoric could power the United States for a century. Because while Trump throws Zelensky under the bus, his real crush, Vladimir Putin  the guy serially accused of poisoning journalists , the guy whose critics tend to end up dead, jailed or exiled , the guy who wins elections by suspicious, predictable landslides  is out here running an actual dictatorship. His troops are raping Ukrainian women , according to investigators; his forces are kidnapping children and flattening cities . But yeah, the real problem is the elected leader trying to stop them.

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It would be hard to overstate how rapidly this relationship has fallen apart. In case you missed it, Trump took it upon himself to negotiate Ukraines fate without having Ukraine in the room. His team also floated an offer to Ukraine straight out of The Godfather: Hand over some mineral rights as payback for our past help, and maybe well think about letting you keep defending your country . Maybe.

And if that wasnt humiliating enough, during that aforementioned Oval Office meeting, Trump and Vice President JD Vance escalated things to a new low, staging a televised Oval Office attack on Zelensky in a spectacle more suited to the WWE than international diplomacy.

During the exchange, Vance called Zelensky disrespectful and said he should be more thankful to Trump. The clash, broadcast for the world to see, wasnt just a political power move  it was a calculated act of degradation, reinforcing the message that under Trump, Ukraine is expected to grovel for every bullet. It was a diplomatic disaster and a propaganda gift to Moscow, all rolled into one.

Never mind the fact that we assured Ukraine (before and after Russias invasion) that wed have their back. If we break that promise now  as it appears we are poised to do  the consequences wont stop at Kyiv. The message will travel far beyond Ukraine to our allies (who are watching nervously) and our enemies (who are taking notes).

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For the better part of a century, Americas foreign policy has boiled down to this: We foot most of the bills and prevent bullies from rolling over weaker sovereign states. In return, we get a world that (mostly) behaves itself.

Trump, however, looks at this mutually beneficial deal and assumes hes getting scammed. He views NATO like a group dinner where everyone else orders lobster, and he thinks hes stuck with the bill.

Why should we pay for security? Why should we defend our allies?

Uh, because it keeps the world from becoming a flaming dumpster fire.

The alternative is far worse: Allies either rearm (including nukes) or they start making new, less-savory friends. Neither scenario ends well for the U.S.

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Let's talk about our allies. Germany is rearming, which  if you've read even a single history book published after 1945  might make you a bit uneasy.

That said, the free world may need Germany to step up if the U.S. retreats from the global stage like Homer Simpson disappearing into the bushes.

My absolute priority will be to strengthen Europe as quickly as possible so that  we can really achieve independence from the U.S.A., Germanys chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz said before the final results of his election were even announced. After Donald Trumps statements last week at the latest, it is clear that the Americans  are largely indifferent to the fate of Europe.

Among the most recent statements, Trump claimed : The European Union was formed in order to screw the United States.  And they've done a good job of it. In reality, as a bloc , the EU represents our largest trading partner .

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Its not just Europe. Longtime friends Australia, Taiwan and Canada (or as Trump calls our neighbor, Americas 51st state) are starting to look around and get nervous. Even Japan  yes, that erstwhile empire we politely asked not to conquer the Pacific ever again  has begun since the first Trump administration to stock up on weapons like there is an apocalypse fire sale.

All of this marks a rather stark departure from the nuclear umbrella and post-war liberal order that  barring a few notable exceptions  has let Americans enjoy a blissful, air-conditioned peace, complete with two-car garages, well-manicured lawns and shopping malls since 1945.

But hey, who needs stability when you can have excitement? After all, maintaining these alliances took effort. For one thing, you have to keep sucking up to people who arent as strong as you, and probably arent chipping in as much cash as they might.

Take, for example, President Reagans speech commemorating the 40th anniversary of D-Day. I remember hearing it as a boy and thinking, Why all the talk about the Allies? I mean, Reagan raves about the impossible valor of the Poles, the forces of Free France and the unsurpassed courage of the Canadians. And he throws in seemingly extraneous references to British troops hearing bagpipes and to Lord Lovat of Scotland.

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Why? Because back then, we knew the world worked better when our friends believed we were in this existential struggle together. Trump seems to be going out of his way to send the opposite message: Youre on your own!

But the biggest reason that abandoning our allies is dumb can be summed up in one word: China. You remember China, right? The country that sends us fentanyl and TikTok propaganda and outnumbers us four-to-one? Well, guess what  if the free world sticks together, we pretty much match them in population, land and strength. But only if we stick together.

Trump, the so-called greatest dealmaker, is out here making the worst deal in American history by giving away U.S. influence, alienating allies, gutting American soft power by dismantling foreign aid and handing power to the people who really want to screw us. Nothing says America First like leaving your friends dead last. And heres the thing: Its easy to fritter away our power, but it would be a decades-long struggle to regain influence once its gone.

How does a super power lose its moral authority, allies and standing in the world? Slowly ... and then all at once.

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Matt K. Lewis is the author of Filthy Rich Politicians and Too Dumb to Fail.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Bloomberg) -- A mission by West Africas regional bloc to help find an agreement on how to conduct Guinea-Bissaus delayed presidential elections ended after the head of state threatened to expel the delegation.

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The Economic Community of West African States deployed a high-level mission to Guinea-Bissau on Feb. 21 to reach a political consensus on a roadmap for the conduct of inclusive and peaceful elections, the bloc said in a statement. It departed Bissau, the capital, on March 1 following President Umaro Sissoco Embalos threat, it said.

A presidency spokesman didnt respond to calls or a text message seeking comment.

GuineaBissau, has been wracked by renewed political instability since November, when Embalo postponed elections scheduled for that month. Some of his opponents, including the former ruling PAIGC party, argue that the presidents mandate ended on Feb. 27  five years after he was sworn in following a disputed vote.

Embalo plans to seek a second term in the coming election, Agence France-Presse reported on Monday. The opposition has challenged the delayed vote as unconstitutional, and the timeline for presidential and legislative elections remains uncertain.

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Ecowas deployed troops to Guinea-Bissau in June 2022 to help stabilize the country after a failed coup earlier that year. The bloc announced the deployment of the force days after Embalo survived what he called an assassination attempt by drug traffickers.

Guinea-Bissau has long been an entry point for cocaine into West Africa, a region that operates as a transit point on international trafficking routes between cultivation countries in Latin America and consumers in Europe.

Had the June 2022 attack led to a coup detat, it wouldve been the fifth successful military takeover since Guinea-Bissaus independence in 1973. West Africa has been beset by putsches over the past five years, with the armies seizing power in Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and Niger.

A potential coup and the looming elections are the main risk for Embalo, according Vincent Foucher, a researcher at Frances National Centre for Scientific Research.

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The Ecowas force was essentially reducing the risk of coups, Foucher said. Now Ecowas is pushing for elections, which Embalo doesnt want, at least not now.

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As a Democratic package of proposed gun restrictions advances in Trenton, legislative Republicans have split on the issue. (Aristide Economopoulos for New Jersey Monitor)

There have been few things more reliable in Trenton in recent years than Republicans trying to loosen New Jerseys famously tough gun restrictions  and those proposals going nowhere, year after year, in a Legislature controlled by Democrats.

GOP bills now stalled in the Statehouse range from exempting veterans from gun permit application fees, codifying the right of school and college cops to carry on campus, and clarifying that BB guns are not firearms under the law.

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But two Republicans leaped off the party bandwagon last fall to introduce a package of bills that would establish new gun crimes and add several other new firearm restrictions. The proposals were such a detour from the GOPs usual Second Amendment fealty that the Democrats subsequently introduced a near-identical package of bills, prompting GOP gripes earlier this month that the majority party hijacked their bills.

Assemblywomen Michele Matsikoudis (R-Union), who sponsored the GOP bills with district partner and fellow Republican Assemblywoman Nancy Munoz, said she doesnt see the measures as a departure from party priorities. Rather, she said, the restrictions she and Munoz proposed align with Republican calls to crack down on crime and protect public safety. Many of the bills target illegally manufactured firearms like 3-D printed guns and gun-involved crimes.

Illegal gun crime is one of the biggest threats to lawful gun owners and law-abiding citizens, Matsikoudis said. So everyone that wants to protect Second Amendment rights will naturally be behind this, because what its doing really is separating lawful, law-abiding gun owners from the bad actors and people that are looking to do harm with this new technology thats untraceable.

Their push for the gun restriction measures comes as both women seek reelection in a legislative district that is under GOP control but voted in November for then-Vice President Kamala Harris (D) over Donald Trump (R) by 12 points.

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Both Democrats, who trumpeted their version of the bills in a news conference earlier this month, and Matsikoudis said the legislation was inspired by recommendations the State Commission of Investigation issued last spring to foil repeat gun offenders and stem a rising tide of ghost guns.

Matsikoudis said she has asked to co-sponsor the Democratic bills, which an Assembly panel recently advanced along party lines.

Anytime that I can reach across the aisle to come up with good, common-sense legislation, I will do that every day of the week, Matsikoudis said. Safety affects everybody.

At least one of her party peers has no plans to join her.

Assemblyman Bob Auth objects to legislation that would tighten gun restrictions during an Assembly judiciary committee hearing on Feb. 20, 2025, in Trenton. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor)

Assemblyman Bob Auth (R-Bergen) said most of the Democratic bills were unconstitutional or redundant, because they seek to outlaw things that are already illegal, like ghost guns and machine gun conversion devices. Auth, along with Assemblywoman Vicky Flynn (R-Monmouth), voted against most of the Democrats gun bills when they were heard by the Assemblys judiciary committee last month.

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We have some of the most restrictive gun laws in this nation. We have a cornucopia of different gun laws. I think theyve accomplished the goals that theyve set out to do, but they just keep piling more on, Auth told the New Jersey Monitor.

Matsikoudis and Auth dismissed any idea that their differences on the bills signaled any deeper party division on the issue.

Fifty percent of the people that get married in this country get divorced. I would say that the Republican caucus is doing far better than just the average person whos trying to survive a marriage, Auth said. I think that we agree on more things than we disagree on. Im never going to agree with anybody on every single issue.

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The death of actor Gene Hackman remains under investigation after he, his wife and his dog were found dead last week in their New Mexico home. Jerry Rodriguez, a retired captain with the Los Angeles Police Department, discusses the challenges that law enforcement faces as they try to create a timeline to determine what caused their deaths.

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A 32-year-old New Hampshire man has been arrested after a SWAT team found a significant amount of drugs and firearms while executing a search warrant inside a home, police said Monday.

Jose Rodriguez Grau, of Bedford, was arrested on a warrant on Friday, police said. He is charged with possession of a controlled drug (cocaine), possession of a controlled drug with intent to sell, violation of drug laws, felonious use of a firearm, and being a felon possessing a dangerous weapon.

On Friday, members of the Manchester Police SWAT Team executed a high-risk search warrant inside a local home. Police said the investigation included officers from Manchester Police, ATFs New Hampshire Violent Crime Task Force and the DEAs Manchester District Office Group 2.

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This joint investigation centered on the possession of significant quantities of illegal drugs and firearms in furtherance of criminal activity, police said in their statement.

During the search, investigators recovered several firearms, multiple kilograms of a substance believed to be cocaine, and a large amount of ammunition and cash, police said.

The case remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) A Harrisburg woman was sentenced to prison on charges of healthcare and bank fraud after illegally obtaining more than $1 million.

According to the United States Attorneys Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Ester N. Mbaya, 43, of Harrisburg, was sentenced to 41 months in prison and is required to pay $3,349,550 in restitution for healthcare fraud and bank fraud.

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Mbaya, president of a home healthcare agency called Cool Waters LLC, submitted fraudulent Medicaid claims seeking compensation for services that were not provided or were inflated, the attorneys office said.

Fraudulent claims were submitted from January 2018 to June 2020, resulting in Mbaya receiving more than $1 million, per the attorneys office. Additionally, Mbaya submitted altered bank statements and falsified paychecks to multiple financial institutions to receive loans.

This exhaustive investigation uncovered nearly three million dollars in Medicaid funds

that should have been used to help Pennsylvanians in need of care, but instead were taken by the defendant who deliberately defrauded the system, Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said. I commend the dedication of our team which uncovered this fraud, and thank our federal partners for collaboration which led to a successful prosecution.

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CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY)  An aide at an elementary school in Harrison County has been charged after a child was allegedly exposed to sexual materials at her home in Clarksburg.

On Nov. 1, troopers with the Bridgeport detachment of the West Virginia State Police conducted an interview with Teresa Stutler, 45, of Clarksburg, due to a report of a domestic incident in her home where a juvenile was allegedly struck by an adult man, according to the complaint.

Teresa Stutler

While interviewing Stutler and others related to that incident, troopers learned that multiple children had allegedly been struck by Stutler and others while they were in Stutlers home, the complaint said. While talking to troopers, Stutler confessed to intentionally slapping one of the juveniles in an earlier incident because she was following advice from a work colleague, troopers said.

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The complaint also detailed reports of other alleged physical violence toward two children while in Stulters home, including a child who reported being intentionally choked by an adult male previously; Stutler said at that time that she did not observe any visible marks on the child, troopers said.

Reckless semi driver caused fatal accident on I-68 in Morgantown, investigators say

A third juvenile victim said during a Child Advocacy Center interview that Stutler exposed [the juvenile] to homemade pornographic videos, and troopers found evidence that Stutler frequently has intercourse in that juveniles bedroom, according to the complaint.

While in the care of Stutler, two of the juveniles had to cook for [the other juveniles] if they wanted to eat, and often had to search for [those children] when they ran off because [Stutler] was not watching them, troopers said.

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Stutler has been charged with display of obscene material to a minor. She posted a $20,000 total bond on March 1.

Stulter is listed on the Harrison County Schools website as an aide at North View Elementary School. Superintendent Dora Stulter told 12 News Monday that Teresa Stulter is currently suspended.

A preliminary hearing has been set before Magistrate Kevin Renzelli with a tentative date of March 20.

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HARTFORD, CT. (WWLP)  A priest in Hartford is being accused of stealing money from his church.

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Father Charles Jacobs has been put on administrative leave after he was accused of taking money from collection baskets and keeping it for personal use, WTNH states.

Parishioners at the holy trinity church are showing their support for Jacobs. Jacobs is denying the allegations, saying he was giving back to those in need. He says hes devastated and can no longer celebrate mass or identify himself as a priest.

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People would constantly confront me at the door. People would need gas, food and medications so I would use those parish funds to give to those people who come to me in need, said Jacobs.

Jacobs says each week, he would set aside about $80 so that he could give it to parishioners. Parishioners held a rally to call for his return.

Theres been no police investigation, however the archdiocese may refer to the matter after its own investigation.

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WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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HASKELL COUNTY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A micro-nuclear technology developer has announced plans to build 30 microreactors in Haskell County to support Texas growing data center demands.

Last Energy plans to construct 30 microreactors on 200 acres of land, aiming to power data centers across the state through a combination of private wire and grid transmission. The company has already filed for grid connection with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), while the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is currently in pre-application discussions with Last Energy.

Roundtable: The opportunities & challenges of Abilenes new AI data campus

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott welcomed the project, stating:

Texas is the energy capital of America, and we are working to be No. 1 in advanced nuclear power, said Governor Abbott. Last Energys microreactor project in Haskell County will help fulfill the states growing data center demand. Texas must become a national leader in advanced nuclear energy. By working together with industry leaders like Last Energy, we will usher in a nuclear power renaissance in the United States.

A rendering of Last Energys Northwest Texas project. Credit: Last Energy.



Bret Kugelmass, Founder and CEO of Last Energy, emphasized the need for nuclear power to support Texas rapid growth.

Texas is Americas undisputed energy leader, but skyrocketing population growth and data center development is forcing policymakers, customers, and energy providers to embrace new technologies, said Bret Kugelmass, Founder and CEO of Last Energy. Nuclear power is the most effective way to meet Texas demand, but our solution  plug-and-play microreactors, designed for scalability and siting flexibility  is the best way to meet it quickly. Texas is a state that recognizes energy is a precondition for prosperity, and Last Energy is excited to contribute to that mission.

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The project aims to address the growing power demands of Texas-based data center developers. With more than 340 data centers statewide consuming nearly eight gigawatts of power  about 9% of Texas total electricity use  the need for reliable energy is only increasing. Grid Strategies reports that data centers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area alone could add another 43 gigawatts of demand in the coming years.

MORE DETAILS: Abilene announced for largest AI infrastructure project with $500 billion+ investment

Last Energys PWR-20 reactor, designed for mass production, features a four-loop pressurized water reactor (PWR) capable of producing 20 MWe (megawatt electrical). Reed Clay, President of the Texas Nuclear Alliance, called nuclear energy a key solution for Texas power demands.

Texas growing data center industry will require reliable and resilient power sources that operate 24/7, said Reed Clay, President of the Texas Nuclear Alliance. Nuclear energy is the self-evident solution to the states growing demand. Last Energys Haskell County project is a model of how next-generation nuclear can integrate seamlessly into high-demand industries and showcases how innovation can drive both energy security and the future of global connectivity.

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Last Energy has already built two full-scale prototypes and hosted demonstrations for industry and government stakeholders. Click here to learn more about the companys plans.

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I felt the wind knocked out of me. The sight of a swastika elicits a visceral reaction  all the more so when it appears in your backyard. Last Friday, neo-Nazis unfurled flags on an overpass in Lincoln Heights  an unmistakable symbol of extremism, meant to instill fear and divide.

Half a world away, dozens of hostages  including children and grandparents  remain in the hands of their captors, their fate uncertain. Last week, three men returned malnourished and abused, their images hauntingly reminiscent of Holocaust liberation photos.

Opinion: Neo-Nazi hate came to Lincoln Heights and left scars we can't ignore

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Acts of hate  whether in Cincinnati or Israel  are meant to instill fear, divide communities, and dehumanize. But in Lincoln Heights, the community refused to back down. The worlds response to rising hate has been fractured, but ours must be clear: Hate, no matter where it appears, must be confronted  never met with silence.

I just returned from Israel with 14 other Jewish community leaders, where we witnessed people of all backgrounds  Jews, Muslims, Druze, and Bedouins  not divided by identity but united as fellow Israeli citizens.

A prayer circle forms after a group displaying swastika flags was seen demonstrating on an Interstate 75 overpass in Evendale on Friday afternoon, Feb. 7, 2025.

I saw that same resolve in the residents of Lincoln Heights, including upstander  16-year-old Ethan Eley, a Jewish teen whose grandparents were Holocaust survivors. Instead of looking away, he stopped and stood with them. Their courage reminded me of another choice  one made by Awad Darawshe on Oct. 7.

Awad was a paramedic. On Oct. 7, as gunfire and chaos erupted, he had every reason to run for safety. Instead, he chose to stay. He treated the wounded  Jews, Arabs, anyone in need  until he was tragically killed. His cousin Mohammad shared his story with us on our Israel Leadership Trip.

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Awads story reflects the kind of society that democracies  whether in America, Cincinnati, or Israel  strive to build: one where people of diverse backgrounds and identities co-exist with respect. During our mission, we saw how this vision is not just an idea but a reality being invested in, even in war. Ethans choice in Lincoln Heights was a reminder that courage exists everywhere  in big and small moments, and in building bridges every day.

More: White supremacist demonstration near Cincinnati part of a larger national trend

We saw this firsthand at The Jewish Agency for Israels Youth Futures program, where young people from across Israeli society  Jews, Arabs, and other minorities  receive mentorship and support to overcome trauma. In the Negev, Jews, and Bedouins work side by side at a food packing center, not just distributing aid but forming relationships that bridge generations of division. These quiet acts of unity dont make headlines, but they show that a shared society isnt just an aspiration  its a reality being built, one relationship at a time.

More than 200 people marched to the center of the Interstate 75 overpass between Evendale and Lincoln Heights on Sunday, Feb. 9.

Just as we support shared society in Israel, we are committed to strengthening it at home  working with civic and religious leaders to push back against hate and build lasting, mutually respectful relationships. The same extremists who target Jews also threaten our Black, Muslim, LGBTQ, and immigrant neighbors  including those who are part of our Jewish community. This multitude of identities is not just a reality  it is the foundation of a thriving democracy. When communities come together in shared support and respect, hate loses.

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Opinion: Neo-Nazis waved swastika flags in Cincinnati. Our community refused to stand by.

That is what we saw in Lincoln Heights  a community that stood strong, a moment when people from diverse backgrounds chose to act. More than one community rose that day.

Pursuing the bridge-building work that inspires people to refuse to be divided  the work of building a more just and compassionate world  must continue not just in moments of crisis, but every single day. This is what drives me as CEO of the Jewish Federation.

Danielle V. Minson, CEO, Jewish Federation of Cincinnati

Danielle V. Minson is CEO of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Lincoln Heights Ohio didnt tolerate neo Nazi hate | Opinion
ISLAMABAD, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Monday that his country has been working towards safeguarding wildlife treasures for a robust ecosystem and sustainable development, highlighting an intrinsic connection between humanity and nature.

In his message on the occasion of the World Wildlife Day, the prime minister said Pakistan is blessed with mesmerizing biodiversity and that it is the nation's responsibility to protect the extraordinary wildlife that enriches lives and ecosystems.

"From the elusive snow leopards of the Himalayas to the endangered Indus River dolphins and the magnificent whale sharks of the Arabian Sea, Pakistan have it all," he said.

He added that these species are not just part of national natural heritage, but also play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining environment and economy.

Underlining the need of investing in a sustainable future for both people and the planet, Sharif said that the country's Green Pakistan program empowered local communities with economic opportunities that deter poaching and habitat destruction.

Besides that, a wildlife rescue center has also been established to rehabilitate injured, orphaned, and abused animals, aiming for their reintroduction into the wild or placement in sanctuaries that cater to their specific needs, he said. 
HONOLULU (KHON2)  U.S. Geological Society experts predict Kilauea could erupt again within the next two to four days.

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While there may not be any lava, plenty of gas coming from the vents is leading to hazy skies across the islands. Health officials are warning everyone to be careful for the next few days.

It was a picture perfect day in Waikiki.

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Lava spews more than 400 feet high in Kilaueas 11th episode

Feels like it heals the bones, especially coming from Canada, its a nice, really nice break, said Dale Forbes, visitor from Canada.

Even though its sunny right now, health officials warn both visitors and locals about elevated levels of vog, volcanic smog, in the air from the latest eruptions at Kilauea.

People that have asthma, people that have chronic lung disorders, they tend to get exacerbations or triggering their lung disorder which causes them to have shortness of breath, coughing, which sometimes can lead to infections and other problems, said Dr. Tony Trpovski, Doctors of Waikiki.

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Ive had asthma for about 30 years now and it does come up every now and then without any reason or explanation, sometimes some sort of an allergy, said Alan Redburn, visitor from Canada. And this is the first time I heard of fog, vog and stuff like that, so Im gonna be really aware of it now that I know volcanoes are erupting.

Health officials said the most sensitive groups are children, kupuna and those with respiratory conditions.

They added that face masks do not protect against vog, but do help you from inhaling volcanic ash. If you have an inhaler to treat asthma, doctors recommend having it on standby.

And then if you get in trouble, go see our doctor, said Trpovski. Go see your doctor, have him put you on a nebulizer, change your medicines around, but we will see an uptick in respiratory problems in the coming few weeks.

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Some other tips include:

Stay inside if you need to and close windows and doors. If youre using an air conditioner, set it to recirculate.

Dont smoke. Stay away from second-hand smoke.

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

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Were not go, go, go, we just wanna take it easy and do a few little sights here and there and enjoy it while we can, said Forbes.

Coming from the cold weather in Canada, we find were very, very far ahead, just standing right here on the beach to look around, said Redburn.

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NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  High LDL-C and Lp(a) cholesterol levels could raise your risk of heart disease. These bad cholesterol types can block arteries and lead to serious health issues. Doctors say getting tested is key to protecting your heart.

Dr. Antonio Fernandez, medical director of cardiovascular medicine at Hartford Hospital, was a guest on Good Morning Connecticut to discuss heart health and cholesterol.

Watch the video above to learn more.

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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reinstated the name Fort Benning on Monday for one of the nations largest military bases  the second such reversal hes ordered and the first that requires actually removing the name of a U.S. service member.

The base, located in Columbus, Georgia, had been renamed Fort Moore after Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, whose memoir We Were Soldiers Once ... and Young chronicled his service in Vietnam. The name also commemorated his wife, Julia, who pushed the military to develop a more humane system for notifying family members of casualties.

Fort Moore, which was officially renamed in May 2023, was the first base named after a military family.

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Im incredibly saddened, said David Moore, the son of Hal and Julia, who helped lead the effort to rename the post after his parents. My only conclusion is that [Hegseth] chose to reject Hal and Julia Moore.

Since taking office Jan. 25, Hegseth has quickly begun reversing a yearslong effort to rename American military posts that formerly recognized Confederate officers. Congress ordered the change in the wake of protests in the summer of 2020 against racism and police violence, overriding then-President Donald Trumps veto. The names had long been controversial as a relic of the Jim Crow South.

Nine bases were renamed in total.

Family members of Hal and Julia Moore were shocked, angry and confused by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's decision Monday to return the Army base in Columbus, Georgia, to the name Fort Benning. The post had been renamed to Fort Moore in 2023. (Patrick A. Albright/Fort Moore PAO Photographer)

Hegseth first changed Fort Liberty in Fayetteville, North Carolina, back to Fort Bragg, with a memorandum Feb. 10. Rather than recognizing Braxton Bragg, the Confederate general it was once named after, the memo said the name now honored Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, a World War II veteran awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart.

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Critics of the administration have said the choice amounts to a cynical loophole, given that Congress banned the military from naming posts after members of the Confederacy.

By instead invoking the name of World War II soldier Private Roland Bragg, Secretary Hegseth has not violated the letter of the law, but he has violated its spirit, Senate Armed Services Committee ranking member Jack Reed, D-R.I., wrote in a February statement.

Similarly, Fort Benning will now honor Cpl. Fred G. Benning, a World War I veteran who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross  an honor Hal Moore also earned. Its previous namesake was the Confederate general Henry Benning.

Since Fort Liberty was named after a value, Hegseths decision Monday marks the first instance a service members name was removed from one of the renamed posts.

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The process to decide on the name Fort Moore involved extensive work with local leaders in Columbus, where the post is integral to the economy. The Moore family prepared a 300-page proposal, including detailed records of Hal and Julias service. In the end, the name changed in 2023 with little local controversy.

Those who participated in that effort now described the devastation of seeing it reversed.

Im heartbroken, said former Brig. Gen. Ty Seidule, who participated in the militarys commission to rename the nine posts.

Maj. Gen. Patrick Donahoe, the retired commanding general of the base, expressed similar dismay.

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The opportunity to name one of our premier training bases after both LTG Hal and his spouse Julia Moore is one we should not walk back, Donahoe said.

Dave Moore had suspected the base would be renamed after he saw the redesignation of Fort Liberty to Fort Bragg last month. Still, he wasnt certain it would change, especially since he believed his parents represented many of the qualities Hegseth publicly affirms  a focus on fighting wars among them.

I thought we had a fighting chance, Moore said.

Instead, after receiving the news from the bases commanding general Monday afternoon and sharing it with his family, Moore said he was shocked, angry and confused.

I dont believe we understand what he stands for, Moore said of Hegseth. Everything he commended Fred Benning for is what he already had in Hal and Julia Moore.
HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  Henderson officials say the city took its City Junior Ambassadors, which consist of 12 high school juniors and seniors, last Thursday and Friday to Frankfort, Kentucky to visit their state leaders and attend the legislative session.

City officials say they visited the Kentucky History Center, toured the Old State Capitol and enjoyed all Frankfort has to offer. The students met Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman, visited the governors office and were able to network with other elected officials, including State Senator Robby Mills and State Representative J.T. Payne.

Clay Street bridge project scheduled to begin

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A spokesperson for the city says, We are currently in our second year of the City Junior Ambassador program and just opened up applications for next year! Its been a wonderful partnership between the City of Henderson and Henderson County Schools.

Colon cancer awareness events get more locations

Officials explain each month, August through May, the students spend the first Friday learning about their city government. This can include visits to the Henderson Water Utility, Public Works, Henderson Municipal Power and Light and Henderson Municipal Gas. In April, this years students will be meeting with Henderson Economic Development, the Chamber of Commerce and the Henderson Tourist Commission so they can learn more about the citys community partners.

Henderson officials explain the students apply for the program and are selected based on their applications. A committee of people from Henderson County Schools and the city come together to look through each application and select students for the program. This year, city officials are adding an interview as part of the application process so the students can gain interview skills.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
Best Possible Place, Worst Possible Time

True Stories from a Career in Hollywood

by Barry Sonnenfeld

Hachette, 332 pp., $25

AS A LONGTIME DIRECTOR and cinematographer, Barry Sonnenfeld understands the importance of introducing characters quickly and succinctly. You see this principle of characterization in action throughout his latest memoir, Best Possible Place, Worst Possible Time, via the manner with which his famous interlocutors address him.

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For instance, when Sonnenfeld meets the dulcet-toned Delroy Lindo on the set of Get Shorty, we learn the following: By the end of the show, it was common for Delroys vocal exercises to illicit cow mooing sounds from the crew. Delroy insisted on calling me BARRY SONNENFELD. [All caps in original.] Perhaps he learned this in acting school along with his Uuuuuuummmmmaaaahhhhhh vocalizations.

And, indeed, Delroy Lindo is seen throughout the rest of the chapter thusly addressing his director, as when he makes the case for carrying a briefcase throughout a scene: Barry Sonnenfeld. I would not, my character would not, let go of this money. It is my whole raison detre. Lindos intonation of Sonnenfelds name here is practically audible off the page; its nearly lyrical. The syllables roll together, and anyone who has heard the actor pronounce sesame cake will pick up on it instantly.

Speaking of: Getting access to all of The Bulwarks coverage of politics, culture, and ideas is a piece of cake. Just become a Bulwark+ member.

Sometimes its a matter of punctuation, as when Sonnenfeld recounts running into Martin Scorsese. They hadnt seen each other in 30 years, since Sonnenfeld shot the last two weeks of Goodfellas for the patron saint of gangster movies, and he wasnt sure if Scorsese would remember his well-dressed self. Writes Sonnenfeld: He came over to our table, took a look at me, and said, Barry. Wheres your tie? Again, it helps that we know who Scorsese is and how he talks, but the clipped intonation here is key to visualizing Scorseses rapid-fire patter.

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Mr. Barry is how Number One, as the director is told to call his star, addresses Sonnenfeld. Mr. Barry. Can we do it tomorrow, Number One begs, nervous about shooting his Men in Black II cameo. Mr. Barry. This is my dream. From the time I was a little boyto be an agent of Men in Black. But it was time to shoot and movie sets run on tight schedules and if Number One couldnt do it, well, so be it. Next shot, were moving on. Unless, of course, the producer steps in, as Amy Pascal did when she got wind that Barry Sonnenfeld had just told the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson, that they were going to move on without him. Then you find a way to make it work.

While discussing the inclusion of a pivotal plot point in Men in Black III, Sonnenfeld hears from two bold-faced names. The backstory: Sonnenfeld and script doctor David Koepp (Jurassic Park, Spider-Man, and several dozen more movies that have grossed several billion dollars, combined) want to insert a MacGuffin that will help characters understand the time travel plot at the heart of the film. Producer (and general pain-in-Barrys ass) Walter Parkes hates the idea and demands it not be shot, threatening to go over everyones head if Sonnenfeld persists. The director decides to shoot it both ways so they can choose which to use.

Star Will Smith shakes his head.

Youre the director, Baz. Im going to do it one way only. What do you want because thats the only version Ill do.

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The Baz diminutive is an interesting one: both familiar and friendly sounding, yet (as best as I can tell, not having an electronic version of this book to search) unique to Will Smith, almost inarguably one of the two or three biggest stars in the world during their working relationship. Which, naturally, gives it a different heft. On the one hand, Smith is technically deferring to Sonnenfeld: Im only going to do the thing you want to do. On the other, its an ultimatum: Im only going to do one thing, Baz.

Sonnenfeld shoots the MacGuffin, which leads to the other bold-faced name getting in touch: Hey, Barry. Whats up with the chocolate milk? The questioner is Steven Spielberg, and that cadence is all him. The disarming Hey, the directness of the question. You can almost see the half-smile as hes asking it, brows furrowed just a hair, dipping them under the signature eyeglasses. (I imagine hes wearing an Indiana Jones hat, but pick whatever dome-topper you want.)

This theory of introductory labeling is not foolproof; at various points, John Turturro (who Sonnenfeld worked with on Millers Crossing), Rob Reiner (Misery, When Harry Met Sally), and Danny DeVito (Throw Momma From the Train) all refer to Sonnefeld as Ba. And none of this should distract from the fact that Sonnenfeld is telling hilarious stories spanning four-plus decades with brilliant actors like Tommy Lee Jones, visionary directors like the Coen brothers, and minor monsters such as Scott Rudin. (Indeed, the story of Rudin accidentally getting a free rewrite out of the Coens is like something out of a Coen brothers movie.)

His work as a cinematographer doesnt get a ton of play in this book, but he was crucial to the look and feel of both Blood Simple and Raising Arizona, two early masterpieces that cemented the fraternal directing duos placement in the pantheon. Its always amusing to be reminded that he, the Coens, and horror visionary Sam Raimi all ran in the same circles during this period. (Indeed, a key shot in Raising Arizona owes its existence to Raimis The Evil Dead.) I would read a whole book about Sonnenfelds theory of cinematography; his discussion of film stocks and screening rooms and projector brightness is endlessly fascinating and explained in such a way that even a layman like myself can grok it.

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All of which is to say that I emphasize the name thing not to diminish his work or reduce it to a series of silly anecdotes; rather, I hope to highlight for you that Sonnenfeld is a masterful storyteller, one who sets the tone with remarkable efficiency throughout. Yes, it helps that we know many of his subjects already. But you work with what youve got, and hes had a career filled with remarkable work.

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Since its inception over a month ago, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has identified cost savings of $105 billionwhich may be an overestimation. Regardless of the exact figure, DOGE has brought to light some (of the many) layers of wasteful spending within the federal government, which includes the Department of Energy's Loan Programs Office (LPO).

The LPO was created in 2005 to finance high-risk, first-of-a-kind cleantech projects. Since its founding, the office has funded $43.9 billion worth of projects. While some of these have included eventual winners like Tesla, the program has mostly been marred by failed projects and wasteful spendingwhich permeates throughout the LPO today.

In December 2024, the Energy Department's Inspector General (I.G.) identified several violations of conflicts of interest, which could give applicants an unfair advantage when applying for federal money. The I.G. concluded that the LPO "is administering more than $385 billion in new loan authority" without properly vetting, managing, or tracking conflicts of interest.

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In light of the report, the Energy Department has "paused all new loan actions," Jonathan Black, the agency's chief adviser for oversight, told the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations in February.

This is not the first time the I.G. warned about potential waste, fraud, and abuse at the LPO. A November 2024 report called the programwhose lending authority climbed from $17 billion in 2021 to more than $400 billion in 2024a "high risk" to the Energy Department. With $290 billion of this money set to expire in 2026, the I.G. warned, "There is no precedent in the Department for this level and pace of financing." Despite this, the Biden administration dolled out over $46 billion in loans during President Joe Biden's last days in office. Over the entire Biden administration, the LPO awarded more than $107 billion to energy projects.

Several of these projects benefited large corporations that had the means to finance advancements in cleantech. BlueOval SK received $9.63 billion to build manufacturing facilities to produce batteries for Ford Motor Co. A Stellantis subsidiary was awarded $7.54 billion to expand lithium-ion production in Indiana, while Mitsubishi Power got over half a million dollars for a clean hydrogen and energy storage facility. The LPO's frivolous spending is not only a Biden-era problem; the first Trump administration also used the program to fund politically favored projects, including up to $12 billion in loan guarantees for two nuclear power plants in Georgia.

Absent an LPO, the private sector would continue to fund cleantech projects more efficiently than the federal governmentwhich it's been doing for years. In 2023, JPMorgan Chase financed $66 billion worth of sustainable projects. The firm has set a goal to distribute $1 trillion toward green projects by 2030 and has underwritten $242 billion for this goal since 2021. Bank of America, meanwhile, has deployed more than $560 billion in "sustainable finance" since 2021, and last year, 14 of the world's largest banks and financial institutions pledged to increase their support for nuclear power.

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The Department of Energy was never supposed to be a bank. DOGE might not be able to claw back committed LPO funding, but by working with Congress, it could zero out the budget of a redundant program and prevent wasteful federal spending in the future.

The post Hey DOGE: If You Want To Make Yourself Useful, Kill the Federal Energy Loan Program appeared first on Reason.com.
High school shop classes are back in a big way as students and educators prepare for a future in which AI could take over many of what we today think of as "white-collar" jobs.

As the Wall Street Journal reports, school systems across the United States are building out new curricula for shop classes that merge old-school skills like woodworking and welding with higher-tech instruction on how to operate automated machinery.

After Wisconsin's Middleton High School spent $90 million updating its facilities to include a high-tech new manufacturing lab  which features a fishbowl-style window to watch computer-controlled robot arms build things  interest in the state-of-the-art shop classes began to rise.

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Quincy Millerjohn, an English teacher-turned-welding instructor at the Madison-area school, told the newspaper that he began showing students union pay scales for ironworkers and boilermakers that ranged from $41 to $52 an hour. In recent years, roughly a quarter of Middleton's 2,300 students have taken at least one of the school's classes in construction, manufacturing, or woodworking  a massive proportion, especially considering that many school systems eradicated shop classes in the 1990s and the 2000s.

"We want kids going to college to feel these courses fit on their transcripts along with AP and honors," Millerjohn, a former English teacher, said. "Kids can see these arent knuckle-dragging jobs."

Though shop classes have been experiencing something of a renaissance for years now amid increasingly unaffordable college tuitions, concerns about AI replacing office jobs seem to have led to even greater interest among America's next generation of laborers.

"Theres a paradigm shift happening," explained Jake Mihm, an education consultant with Wisconsin's Department of Public Instruction who in the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. "[Manual labor positions] are high-skill, high-wage jobs that are attractive to people because theyre hands-on, and heads-on."

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The same year that Middleton overhauled its shop class facilities, the Houston-area Spring Branch Independent School District successfully passed a $381.6 million bond proposal to fund so-called career technical education (CTE) facilities at its schools. According to that system's superintendent, Jennifer Blaine, vocational training enrollment has risen 9 percent over the past four years.

"Not everybody wants to go to college," Blaine told the WSJ, "and some people dont want to go to college right away."

It's true that AI is poised to radically change the face of education and labor  but we've got to admit, we didn't expect it to result in the return of shop class.

More on AI and work: People With This Level of Education Use AI the Most at Work
The News

Analysts and investors are closely watching Chinas Two Sessions summit  an annual gathering of Beijings rubber-stamp parliament and a key political advisory group  to glean clues as to how the country plans to navigate increasingly turbulent geopolitical and economic waters.

Beijing is expected to reveal its economic growth targets, its monetary and fiscal priorities, and, perhaps most crucially, its broader policy course.

This years Two Sessions, beginning Tuesday, comes amid persistent economic malaise in China  although investor sentiment has risen in recent weeks  and as the country faces an escalating trade war with the US.

SIGNALS

Beijing has a chance to match words with action

Source: South China Morning Post

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The official statements that arise from Two Sessions gatherings are generally marked full of hyperbolic language to describe the countrys future plans  think momentous and extraordinary  but this year presents a moment for China to match its words with actions, longtime China-watcher Wang Xiangwei told the South China Morning Post. The week will test how serious Beijing is about boosting domestic consumption, a critical piece of its larger economic plan. Chinas leadership has acknowledged the challenge, but has yet to fully prioritize it, Wang said: The country needs more concrete actions, such as loosening constraints on private firms and expanding social security benefits to low-income groups to make consumers and entrepreneurs feel confident enough to spend again.

Provincial meetings provide clues to Beijings strategy

Source: The Wire China

Chinas 31 provinces have already held their own mini-Two Sessions meetings that together provide hints of what to expect from Beijing, The Wire China wrote. The local gatherings paint a picture of tacit acknowledgment of challenges and uncertainties, and an economy undergoing a decisive push for industrial transformation. Central to the latter is artificial intelligence: More than two thirds of provinces outlined plans to integrate AI into other industries, an indication that Beijing views AI as a pillar of long-term national competitiveness. The moves reflect the global success of Chinese AI startup DeepSeeks new low-cost model, which lifted investor sentiment around China.

Tensions with US loom over economic roadmap

Sources: The New York Times, Reuters

In the face of existent US tariffs and President Donald Trumps pledge to hike them further, Beijing has held off from making the kind of swift overtures to Trump that Mexico and Canada have: Chinese officials are moving much more cautiously and deliberately as they try to assess Mr. Trump and determine what it is he actually wants, The New York Times reported. One expert said China is especially suspicious of hidden traps in early talks. That caution could ultimately threaten the initial economic momentum that marked the first months of 2025: Chinese manufacturing activity in February grew at its fastest pace in months, a potential sign that stimulus measures launched late last year are working.
Austin's owes the origins of its vaunted high-tech industry to the federal government.

At the close of World War II, the feds closed a bustling plant north of Austin that had processed magnesium used in explosives by the military.

Engineers at the University of Texas lobbied the federal government to release the sprawling complex  north of what is now Research Boulevard, south of what is now the Domain  so that it could be used as a site for fresh scientific research.

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Thus was born the Balcones Research Center, later renamed the Pickle Research Center, after U.S. Rep. J.J. "Jake" Pickle, who followed Lyndon Baines Johnson and Homer Thornberry as congressional representatives for Austin and for the research hub located up on the former wooded prairie.

More on the feds in Austin: The short suborbital career of Austin native Sam the Space Monkey

Associated with this center were new, indigenous tech firms such as Tracor and National Instruments. In the 1960s and '70s, they were joined in Austin by IBM, Texas Instruments and Motorola, among others. Research collaborations and academic launchpads such as UT's IC Institute, Microelectronics and Computer Consortium (MCC) and Sematech followed, along with home-grown tech home runs like Dell.

Today, descendants of these Austin projects stand alongside AMD, Samsung, Oracle, Apple, Meta, Google, Intel, Amazon, Silicon Labs, Microsoft, Tesla, SpaceX and other giants in the field. The support of locally based investors, such as Austin Ventures, has encouraged entrepreneurs to found countless additional tech startups.

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In turn, the rush of tech-related money, ideas and leadership has changed the face of Austin culture. That includes its philanthropic, educational, culinary, retail, arts, design, moviemaking, festival and music scenes.

More on the feds in Austin: Trip to LBJ Presidential Library unearths unexpected family history

Not all the newcomers have expressed an interest in the community's past or its future. Yet those who have, following the mentorship of enlightened pioneers such as UT's George and Ronya Kozmetsky, have enriched our city immeasurably.

And let's not forget other gifts from the feds and what else they contributed to the shape of Austin and Texas.

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1840s: The U.S. annexed the Republic of Texas on generous terms, which included the eventual payment of the young country's considerable debt and a provision letting Texas keep its public lands, which benefited the new state's public schools, universities and construction of the majestic Texas Capitol, among other big projects.

1840s-1920s: The U.S. ensured the protection of the state's citizens against Mexico, which did not easily accept the loss of so much of its territory, and against the Native Americans who actually controlled most of that territory in the mid-19th century. The U.S. had ended Native American rule by the 1870s, and while formal peace was made with Mexico in 1848, combatants crossed back and forth across the Rio Grande well into the 1920s.

More on the feds in Austin: More than 50 million artifacts from Texas past kept at UT lab

1930s: While the Texas economy  dependent on cotton and newly discovered oil  thrived during the go-go 1920s, the Great Depression, along with the Dust Bowl, crippled most of the state in the 1930s. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his New Deal came to the rescue. In Austin, not only were many impoverished residents helped by programs such as direct relief and Social Security, as well as work programs like the WPA, CCC and NYA, the feds paid for local projects such as the UT Tower, numerous buildings, bridges and, perhaps most importantly, the dams along the Colorado River that offered essential flood protection along with electricity, water and recreation.

1940s: Austin and Texas were transformed forever by World War II. As in World War I, military bases proliferated, shipbuilding increased, and armament factories popped up all over the state. Families poured into the booming cities, and by 1950, Texas had become, for the first time, a state with a predominately urban population. Perhaps only California, with its Pacific Ocean ports and gargantuan defense industries, was altered more significantly.

Along with the other dams on the Colorado River, Mansfield Dam, built 1937-41 with federal money, provides Austin with vital flood protection, water, electricity and recreation.

1950s-2010s: Major Texas highways, airports, medical centers and research universities all depended on federal dollars. Fort Worth's defense plants, Dallas' financial enterprises, Houston oil and chemical industries, San Antonio, Corpus Christi and El Paso's military bases, Austin's university and tech sector  all of them required federal investment and federally funded infrastructure.

1990s: I'll add one last element that ties these together: Among the first federal efforts was to secure Texas militarily. That goal rarely wavered over the following decades. Among the major installations in Austin was the Del Valle Army Air Base, later renamed Bergstrom Air Force Base, after a native son who was an early casualty of World War II. In the 1990s, the feds turned the base over to the city of Austin to make way for what is now Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, an essential if overworked component of the city's success story.

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Texans like to think of themselves as self-sufficient individualists, but, as this stroll through the American-Statesman archives demonstrates, we've had a little help along the way.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: High tech is not the only Austin component aided by federal help
SYDNEY, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Australia's New South Wales (NSW) has shifted the method of managing the number of wild horses at Kosciuszko National Park following the culling of thousands of brumbies through aerial shooting.

The use of aerial shooting is no longer necessary, NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe told a budget estimates hearing on Monday. The wild horse population is being controlled due to fears that they are endangering certain rare and native species.

Launched in late 2021, the wild horse management initiative seeks to lower the brumbies population in the area to 3,000 by mid-2027 to safeguard the delicate mountain ecosystem and the heritage value of the brumby.

In late 2023, aerial shooting was introduced as an additional strategy to help reduce the feral horse population. Reliable estimates suggested that more than 17,000 horses remained there. Early findings from the 2024 survey, however, indicated a significant decline in horse numbers, which is currently in the range of 3,000 to 4,000.

Aerial shooting had paused for the time being in Kosciuszko National Park but could be reinstated if needed and remains in use elsewhere in NSW, Sharpe said.

Programs focused on capturing and relocating the animals will continue as authorities explore fertility management options to prevent extreme fluctuations in the horse population, Sharpe said.

Alternative approaches to managing the horse population in the park involve ground shooting, humane capture, relocation to processing facilities, euthanasia, sedation and adoption, according to the report of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Aerial shooting was responsible for eliminating 5,969 of the feral horses, the ABC cited the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water as saying.

Emma Hurst, a representative of the Animal Justice Party, has openly opposed the use of aerial shooting, said the ABC report. 
Robert Crimo III leaving the Lake County Courthouse at a hearing last week, Feb. 25, 2025. - Credit: Brian Hill/Daily Herald/AP Photo

A 24-year-old man has pleaded guilty to multiple murder charges after killing seven people, and injuring dozens more, at a July 4, 2022 parade in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park, The Associated Press reports.

Robert E. Crimo III changed his original not-guilty plea to guilty moments before his trial was set to begin with opening statements Monday, March 3. During the hearing, Judge Victoria Rossetti asked Crimo several questions, confirming that he wanted to change his plea and asking if this was something he had discussed with his attorneys. Crimo responded, Yes, to both questions, and also said he understood the charges against him.

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At one point, Crimos mother made a sound from her seat in the courtroom gallery and was admonished by the judge.

Crimo pleaded guilty to 69 charges, including 21 counts of first-degree murder (three counts for each person killed) and 48-counts of attempted murder. (Last week, prosecutors dropped 48 lesser charges of aggravated battery.) He will be sentenced April 23 and will likely spend the rest of his life in prison without parole as each first-degree murder count carries a life sentence.

Crimos public defender did not speak to the press after the hearing (and has declined to comment on the case throughout the legal proceedings). A rep for the Lake County, Illinois State Attorneys office did not immediately return Rolling Stones request for comment.

The sudden plea change was, in some ways, characteristic of Crimo whose behavior has been erratic since his arrest in connection with the mass shooting. In 2023, he fired his public defenders, said he would represent himself, then changed his mind. Last June, he seemed ready to accept a plea deal and was slated to appear at a hearing where he would face survivors and the families of the seven victims; instead, he showed up to court in a wheelchair and rejected the plea deal.

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The survivors of the shooting have filed multiple civil suits related to the shooting, including one against the maker of the semiautomatic rifle that Crimo used.

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One nightmarish experience for two hikers on top of snowy Mount Washington gave true meaning to the phrase "a close call."

Unofficial Networks reported on the recreational hike that turned into an overnight rescue mission in New Hampshire. Two Massachusetts residents, Kathryn McKee and Beata Lelacheur, had already made it up to 5,000 feet of elevation when they lost the trail in blizzard-like conditions.

The two hikers called 911, and operators attempted to use GPS coordinates to guide them back to the trail. However, even though they found the trail several times, they kept losing it because of snow and wind. After two hours of fighting through chest-deep drifts and freezing temperatures, the pair decided to hunker down and await rescue.

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The "full-blown rescue operation" took several hours to assemble in the frigid and icy conditions, as the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department described in a press release.

"The crews ventured into whiteout conditions and snowshoed through deep, wind-blown snow," they wrote. "The only way to locate the trail was through GPS navigation, and progress was slow due to the tremendous effort required to break a trail in the deep snow."

Fortunately, after searching for several hours in the dead of the night, the crew found the two hikers shortly before 2 a.m. They broke out emergency warming shelters, and once the women were warm enough to move themselves, the group embarked back down the mountain to safety.

While the rescue went smoothly, NHFG emphasized that the hikers likely would not have survived if they had not been wearing proper winter gear.

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"This incident exemplifies the need to prepare for the unexpected," it stated. "Both hikers were prepared and had winter hiking experience, but ultimately encountered unforeseen conditions. Had they not had the amount of gear with them that they did, it is unlikely that they would have survived until rescuers reached them."

This type of experience is both a stark reminder and a warning, the department said: Do not underestimate Mother Nature.

"Although technology and experience is certainly helping to find people more quickly, the fact remains that Mother Nature has the final say, and preparedness, above all, is the difference between life and death in the mountains of New Hampshire," NHFG said, according to Unofficial Networks.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Searches for public university and college presidents in Florida may soon return to the sunshine if recently-filed measures are passed this legislative session.

Two Republicans  Sen. Alexis Calatayud, R-Miami, and Rep. Michelle Salzman, R-Cantonment  filed the legislation (SB 1726/HB 1321) last week.

The identical bills make several changes to state law. Most notably, the legislation would remove the public records and open meetings exemption for those who apply to become a president of a Florida public institution of higher education.

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Supporters of keeping searches in the dark have argued Florida's open records requirement dissuades many qualified candidates from applying because they don't want their employer at the time to find out. Open government advocates counter that the open process still results in high-quality leaders, using Florida State University President Richard McCullough as an example.

The exemptions now are under scrutiny just a few years after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a law making applications confidential. The only information the public gets is a list of finalists for an opening.

The move allowed for the University of Florida's search committee to name Ben Sasse, a Republican U.S. senator from Nebraska, as the sole finalist for the presidency in 2022, following a national search of more than 700 candidates.

After 17 months, Sasse, who said he resigned because of his wife's epilepsy diagnoses, was later investigated for his spending practices during his tenure.

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More recently, the Florida International University Board of Trustees named Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nunez its interim president after DeSantis' office contacted Board Chair Rogelio Tovar and asked him to consider her for the post.

This year's bill also would require members of the Board of Governors, which oversees the state's public universities, to comply with financial disclosure requirements and remove their ability to ultimately confirm the pick of a university president, transferring that power to the university itself.

It also would impose term limits on the Board of Governors' members, as well as require them to live in the state and add rules as to who can recommend a presidential candidate.

University of Florida President Ben Sasse speaks during the University of Florida graduation at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Friday, May 3, 2024.

"The interim or permanent president selected by the (institution's) board of trustees must have been recommended by the presidential search committee," the bill states.

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For the state college system, which is governed by the Florida Department of Education, the bill allows for the appointment, reappointment, suspension and extension of a president without departmental approval.

If passed and signed by DeSantis, the legislation takes effect July 1. As of Monday, the day before the start of the Legislature's yearly 60-day regular session, the bills had not been assigned to any committees in their respective chambers.

Ana Goni-Lessan, state watchdog reporter for the USA TODAY Network  Florida, can be reached at agonilessan@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Bill would make Florida university president searches open to public
The historic, aging ocean liner that a Florida county plans to turn into the worlds largest artificial reef has completed the first leg of its final voyage.

The SS United States, a 1,000-foot (305-meter) vessel that shattered the trans-Atlantic speed record on its maiden voyage in 1952, arrived early Monday in Mobile, Alabama, nearly two weeks after departing from south Philadelphias Delaware River.

Cruise ship with 158 norovirus patients docks in Florida

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The ship was due to arrive at a repair facility in Mobile later Monday. Crews will spend about six months cleaning and preparing the ship before it is eventually sunk off Floridas Gulf Coast.

The 1,800-mile (2,897-kilometer) move south started on Feb. 19, about four months after a years-old rent dispute was resolved between the conservancy that oversees the ship and its landlord. Plans to move the vessel last November were delayed over U.S. Coast Guard concerns about whether the ship was stable enough to make the trip.

Officials in Okaloosa County on Floridas coastal Panhandle hope the ship will become a barnacle-encrusted standout among the countys more than 500 artificial reefs and a signature diving attraction that could generate millions of dollars annually in local tourism spending for scuba shops, charter fishing boats and hotels.

Officials have said the deal to buy the ship could eventually cost more than $10 million.

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The SS United States was once considered a beacon of American engineering, doubling as a military vessel that could carry thousands of troops. Its maiden voyage broke the trans-Atlantic speed record in both directions when it reached an average speed of 36 knots, or just over 41 mph (66 kph), The Associated Press reported from aboard the ship. The ship crossed the Atlantic Ocean in three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes, besting the RMS Queen Marys time by 10 hours. To this day, the SS United States holds the trans-Atlantic speed record for an ocean liner.

The SS United States became a reserve ship in 1969 and later bounced between various private owners who hoped to redevelop it. They eventually found their plans too expensive or poorly timed, leaving the vessel looming for years on south Philadelphias Delaware River waterfront.

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New York Gov. Kathy Hochuls (D) office is running a digital ad in Washington, D.C.s Union Station to recruit laid-off federal employees to work for New York State amid the Trump administrations efforts to slim down the federal government.

The ad, which started running Monday at digital director displays in Union Station, features an image of the Statue of Liberty with the caption: DOGE said youre fired? We say youre hired! New York wants you!

Elon Musk and his clueless cadre of career killers know nothing about how government works, who it serves, and the tireless federal employees who keep it running, Hochul said in a statement. Here in New York we dont vilify public servants, we value them and their efforts. So when DOGE says Youre fired, New York is ready to say Youre hired  and were making sure talented, experienced federal workers know about the many opportunities available in our state workforce.

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The ad is the latest effort from Hochul to reach out to federal employees impacted by job cuts spurred by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Hochul appealed to government employees in a recruiting video last week.

Whatever your skills, we value public service, Hochul said in the video. Come join our New York State family.

DOGE, led by Musk, has moved at a breakneck pace to reduce the size of the federal government, impacting federal workers in states across the country. While Democrats have largely condemned DOGEs efforts, Republican governors have largely embraced DOGE and have even sought to replicate it in their own states. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) became the latest governor to seek to replicate DOGEs efforts in his state last week.

Last week, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R), whose state boasts a large federal and military workforce, backed DOGEs efforts but touted his Virginia has jobs initiative as a potential safety net for laid-off workers.

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Sellers are being forced to drop home prices because of continued high mortgage rates and more days of sitting on the market. Realtor.coms chief economist predicts this could signal further price softening during the spring homebuying season. Realtors and real estate experts across the U.S. have witnessed home price drops in their respective markets.

Spring homebuying season is officially here, and theres some good news for those on the market to purchase a house. Sellers cut prices throughout last month as homes sat on the market for longer and mortgage rates remained stubbornly high.

The share of homes with price cuts was higher than in any February since 2016, reaching nearly 17%, according to Realtor.com, which predicts it could mean better deals for homebuyers this spring.

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This high share of price reductions could signal further price softening in the coming months as sellers adjust their expectations to market conditions," Realtor.com chief economist Danielle Hale said in a statement.

Sellers have been forced to drop home prices while homes sit on the market for longer: 66 days on average, five days more than this time last year. There has also been little relief for homebuyers in terms of mortgage rates, which remain elevated at 6.74% as of Monday after dipping below 3% during the pandemic era. Experts noted, however, mortgage rates are trending down.

Inventory levels are also at their highest point since August 2019 while sales remained sluggish throughout January, Kenon Chen, executive vice president of strategy and growth at national real estate valuation tech company Clear Capital, told Fortune. He said, therefore, its not surprising to see sellers dropping prices.

But should rates continue their downward trend over the next month, we could see more buyers come off the sidelines driving less need for price reductions as we head into the spring buying season, he added.

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More sellers are also took their homes off the market, with home delistings in December spiking 64% from a year ago to 73,000, according to CoreLogic data cited by the Wall Street Journal.

Spring homebuying season predictions

The current median sales price for a home in the U.S. is $412,000, according to Realtor.com, but the 15 fastest-growing states have much higher home prices. For example, the median home price in Massachusetts is more than $722,000, and a median-priced home in Washington State could set a buyer back nearly $600,000.

Still, realtors and housing experts across the U.S. have also taken notice of sellers cutting home prices because of the one-two punch of high mortgage rates and more days spent on the market.

Brett Johnson, a real estate investor and agent in Colorado, told Fortune hes seen price reductions in the range of 3% to 5%, particularly in Denver and Boulder. Sellers who priced too high at the end of last year are waking up to reality and dropping prices to stay competitive, he said.

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Well-priced homes in desirable areas still move quickly, but anything sitting for too long gets discounted fast, said Johnson, owner of Denver-based New Era Home Buyers. Buyers are more cautious with higher mortgage rates, and affordability is driving the market more than ever.

He said well continue to see home-price reductions throughout the spring, but not an across-the-board price cut.

Evan Luchaco, a senior home loan specialist for Churchill Mortgage in Portland, Ore., said hes seen home prices reduced by $5,000 to $10,000, but some homes that have been on the market for more than six months have dropped by as much as $150,000. But he anticipates a more active homebuying season, so price cuts may become less common if mortgage rates drop further.

Motivated sellerswhether investors who must sell a property or homeowners relocatingwill still make concessions. But well-prepared, competitively priced homes will still sell near asking, Johnson said.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Two senior Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee are launching an investigation into the Justice Departments move to dismiss corruption charges against a member of their own party, the embattled New York City Mayor Eric Adams.

It's an illustration of just how far Adams has fallen out of favor among fellow Democrats as he faces a tough primary reelection bid in June.

In a new letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi, shared first with POLITICO, Reps. Jamie Raskin of Maryland and Jasmine Crockett of Texas  the ranking members of the House Judiciary Committee and oversight subcommittee, respectively  write that the events around the Justice Department's decision to forgo the case against Adams indicate foul play is afoot.

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Last month, troubling reports emerged about the Trump Administrations demand that federal prosecutors move to dismiss the serious public corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams as part of a blatant and illegal quid pro quo to secure the Mayors loyal assistance in executing the Trump Administrations mass arrest and deportation policies, the House Democrats say in the letter.

Adams was charged in September with accepting illegal campaign contributions and gifts from Turkish officials  allegations he has vehemently denied. But the Trump administration recently moved to drop the case, arguing that it would disrupt Adams cooperation with federal immigration enforcement efforts and his reelection bid.

Shortly after the Department of Justice moved to drop the charges, Adams told President Donald Trumps border czar, Tom Homan, that he would allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement into the Rikers Island jail facility, an about-face of recent New York City policy.

Unfortunately, this is yet another example of the Trump DOJ allowing criminals to go free  whether they assaulted police officers, sold drugs to the community, or are corrupt politicians  as long as the criminals pledge loyalty to President Trump, write Raskin and Crockett in their letter to Bondi.

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The charges against Adams have not yet been formally dropped. A federal judge has asked former U.S. solicitor general Paul Clement to provide arguments on the case.

Raskin and Crockett are requesting all notes from the Jan. 31 meeting between Adams team and the Justice Department, along with early communication between the Trump White House and Justice Department officials about the investigation into Adams, among other materials.

Adams has denied allegations of misconduct as well as suggestions he is improperly indebted to the new administration.Mayor Adams has been clear that his loyalty is solely to the 8.3 million New Yorkers he represents," said an Adams spokesperson in a statement. "Despite this investigation and case, weve simultaneously broken housing records, created the most jobs in the citys history, provided for hundreds of thousands of longtime New Yorkers and migrants, built unprecedented public spaces, and made our city safer at every level. Mayor Adams will continue delivering for New Yorkers every day.

The Department of Justice did not immediately return a request for comment.

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Ultimately, Raskin and Crocketts powers are limited: as members of the minority party, they cannot issue subpoenas for the materials or compel officials to testify.

But the timing of their inquiry is significant, as Adams is scheduled to be on Capitol Hill on Wednesday alongsidethree other mayors of major Democratic cities to defend the immigration policies of their municipalities. Each is a sanctuary city, meaning their local laws do not comport with immigration orders being carried out at the federal level, including mass deportations.

Adams and the other mayors will be testifying before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, of which Crockett is a member.
BOSSIER PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  One man died in a Benton house fire on Monday morning.

According to the Benton Fire District 4, firefighters responded to a reported structure fire in the 500 block of Oak Ridge Drive around 5:45 a.m. on Monday morning.

Officials say crews encountered heavy fire and smoke conditions, with reports of individuals trapped inside. Firefighters immediately initiated search and rescue operations, successfully extricating an adult male from the house and administering life-saving measures.

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Another vacant Highland home suffers fire damages

They say the victim did not survive his injuries.

An adult female and a child were able to escape the home before fire crews arrived.

Both sustained injuries and were transported by Bossier Parish EMS to a local hospital for treatment.

Official say the cause of the fire is under investigation by BFD4 fire investigators, in coordination with law enforcement and the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal.

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BERLIN, March 3 (Xinhua) -- A car plowed into a crowd in downtown Mannheim, a city in southwestern Germany, on Monday, leaving several people injured.

Local police confirmed on the platform X that a police operation and emergency response were underway but did not provide further details.

According to local media, the vehicle involved was a black SUV, with reports describing visible debris scattered at the scene. 
Forrest Galante has bad luck with hippos. He was nearly killed twice by the animals while growing up as a kid in Zimbabwe. So its fair to say Galante was treading cautiously this winter as he explored a dense jungle island in the middle of Colombias Rio Magdalena, which is now home to a prolific and very problematic herd of hippopotamuses.

Known the world over as cocaine hippos, these invasive giants are the descendants of Pablo Escobars pet hippo herd, which has grown from four to around 200 and spread well beyond Escobars estate in the time since the kingpins death in 1993. With no natural predators around and a massive river  the Magdalena  at their disposal, the amphibious mammals continue to thrive and expand in Colombia. (To be clear, these hippos are not addicted to cocaine. Theyre called cocaine hippos because they were introduced there by the most famous cocaine dealer of all time.)

As an explorer, wildlife biologist, TV host, and conservationist, Galante has worked with dangerous animals all around the world. Over the past few years, hes been coordinating with a Colombian government agency, Cornare, to try and solve the countrys cocaine hippo problem. He just returned from a months-long trip to Colombia, where he helped refine the governments ongoing efforts to capture and sterilize the invasive critters. This is an urgent ecological problem, as the hippos are harming native species, wrecking waterways, and causing conflicts with people.

Forrest Galante (pictured) is an explorer, wildlife biologist, TV host, and conservationist. Hes working with the Colombian government to help reign in the countrys cocaine hippo problem. Photo by Mitchell Long / James Brantley

Although there are no published news reports available on the internet of hippos attacking humans in Colombia, it has certainly happened. Galante says hes spoken with two people there who were attacked by hippos. One of them, a farmer, was getting water from the river when a hippo charged and trampled him, breaking his back and leaving him paralyzed. Scenarios like this one have played out countless times across sub-Saharan Africa, where hippos are considered the most dangerous large animal on the continent, killing roughly 500 people a year.

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Hippos also degrade habitat by polluting and destroying waterways, and their presence in rivers and lakes threatens a number of native critters, including the critically endangered Magdalena turtle. And just like Floridas Burmese pythons, there are more of them every year.

Read Next: Scientists Photograph Giant Python Swallowing a Full-Sized Whitetail Whole in First-of-Its-Kind Discovery

In the wild, hippo infant mortality rates are fifty to fifty nine percent  but according to one study, that goes down to fifteen percent in the second year, and four percent each year after, Galante tells Outdoor Life. So, if you compare that with a hundred percent survival rate, which is what were seeing in Colombia, this might sound melodramatic. But hippos will literally take over the country at some point. There is nothing to stop them.

Hippos are native to Africa, where theyre considered one of the most dangerous animals on the continent. Photo by Raul Arboleda / Getty Images

The most obvious solution, tracking and killing all the hippos, has proven controversial because locals have grown to love the big, cute animals they associate with Disney movies, Galante explains. The government-approved hunt for Pepe, one of Escobars original males, in 2009 was a PR nightmare. And although Galante says there are unconfirmed rumors that black-market hippo hunts are still taking place, the Colombian public will never support the regulated hunting or culling of the now world-famous hippos.

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So, in 2023, the Colombian government announced it was starting a highly ambitious (and costly) program to capture and sterilize Escobars hippos and their descendants. By late November, officials had caught and sterilized four of them  two adult females and two juvenile males  and set a goal for 40 sterilizations per year. As it turns out, though, castrating a full-grown hippopotamus is easier said than done.

Like any large mammal, hippos learn pretty quickly and theyll move to a new area, Galante says of the various challenges Colombian wildlife managers now face. These hippos are also spread out over [roughly] 500 square kilometers, and each water body has its own hippos, so you have to build new bomas [traps] in each location  and it gets expensive. This is a huge, multi-layered project.

Galante prepares to disembark on the island, where he and the team were charged by a hippo. Photo by Mitchell Long / James Brantley

Another part of the governments plan is to eventually relocate some of the hippos to a wildlife sanctuary in India  something Galante is helping coordinate as well. (Galante has also been filming part of the project for an upcoming television series on Discovery.) When he asked local experts where the majority of the problem hippos were, they ushered him to a densely vegetated island in the middle of the Rio Magdalena.

We took a boat and went out there, and this was maybe the most dangerous situation Ive ever been in with wildlife, Galante says. We were walking in this bush where you have less than 15 feet of visibility, its this tropical Amazonian jungle. So we came up along this game trail and, of course, we startled a hippo and it charged us.

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The hippo turned away at the last second, Galante says, and they had no further run-ins that day. But the one charge was enough to convince Galante that trapping the islands hippos would require significantly more funding and manpower than they had at their disposal. The next best step, they figured, would be to focus on the lakes surrounding Hacienda Napoles. (Escobars estate, where his exotic zoo was located, is now a theme park.)

After locating a few pods of hippos in the lakes, Galante and the Cornare team brought in a retrofitted corral that they baited with sugary foods like carrots, watermelons, and beets. He says it took about a week to catch the first baby hippos, which they sterilized with injections of GonaCon. Three weeks later, after keeping the corral-trap baited, they caught the mother hippo.

When we caught that adult mother in our boma trap, she was with those same two babies, plus two other babies  one that was about a year old and one that was about two, he explains. So thats four generations all in one boma.

After treating the younger hippos with GonaCon, a veterinarian surgically sterilized the adult female. Unlike the male castrations, which are quick and straightforward  You just chop their nuts off and let them go, Galante says  sterilizing females is much more complicated.

Galante prepares to dart one of the juvenile hippos with GonaCon, a vaccine that sterilizes younger animals. Adult hippos require additional treatment to be fully sterile. Photo by Mitchell Long / James Brantley

He operated on her all night, and he uses this incredible methodology that Ive never seen before. Instead of opening all their guts up, he makes these tiny incisions and does it all by feel  Its incredible, and he needs to publish this methodology, Galante explains. He pulled out her ovaries, cauterized them, sewed her up, and let her go. Now, because its Colombia and its a billion degrees out, he had to start doing this at 10 p.m. and finish before the sun came up so she didnt die of heat exhaustion.

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Read Next: Beasts of Burden: Wild Horses and Burros Are Dying Hard Deaths in the West

Now that officials have seen some success, Galante says, the Colombian government will continue sterilizing as many hippos as they can safely catch. He says he doesnt know the exact number of hippos that have been sterilized so far. But he knows he wont be returning to that mid-river island anytime soon without reinforcements.

Theres no way you can deal with those hippos without bringing in a massive construction crew and clearcutting a large area. And then youd need generators, and tractors, and flatbed boats, which could cost millions Galante says. We have not solved this problem, to be clear. What we did over the last few months is help to create a blueprint to solve the problem.
Hunger Task Force has moved its Southside Community Resource Center to a new, larger space.

Physically, the Milwaukee-based anti-hunger and nutrition advocacy organization has only shifted its resource center about a block down the street  you can see the old building out the windows of the new office.

However, Hunger Task Force CEO Matt King said the newly renovated, 7,000-square-foot space at 802 W. Historic Mitchell St. will allow the organization to improve the way it serves its clients in a big way.

Hunger Task Force moved its Southside Community Resource Center from 723 W. Historic Mitchell St. down about one block to a newly renovated, larger space at 802 W. Historic Mitchell St. on Monday, Feb. 24, 2025.

For 15 years, Hunger Task Force has helped clients and families in the Historic Mitchell Street area apply for and access FoodShare benefits, Wisconsin's version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. The resource center also connects clients to other benefits and resources like health insurance, job training, rental and energy assistance and child care, King said. Hunger Task Force operates a similar resource center on Milwaukee's north side at 4144 N. 56th St.

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Many of the center's clients travel by foot or bus, so moving just down the road was intentional, King said.

"The community has really come to know and trust our staff, and, as the need has grown, ... that drove the need for us to invest into this new space," he said. "We're committed to this district, this neighborhood, and so we intentionally looked to stay close by for our clients."

Most of the center's staff have relocated to the new location, but, for the next couple weeks, a few will remain at the old building to redirect clients, King said. Staff will also put up signs informing people that the center has moved "behind you across the street."

Hunger Task Force moved its Southside Community Resource Center from 723 W. Historic Mitchell St. to 802 W. Historic Mitchell St. The locations are walking distance apart, and staff will put signs like this one on the old location to help redirect people.

The center serves about 1,000 people per month  a number that's climbed, especially in the last two years, as people increasingly struggle with the high costs of housing, rent, groceries and other items, King said.

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"We have seen a tremendous increase in need over the last few years and a lot of families coming in for help. There's a lot of need for other resources, even beyond food. So, this expanded space will double what we have, compared to our previous facility."

The space also features a family waiting area with children's books and toys and has private rooms for staff members to meet with clients.

"There are a lot of situations where guests have experienced some sort of trauma or acute stress, so, for them to be able to have a separate space where staff can take them can give them the privacy and dignity they deserve to understand their situation and meet them where they're at," King said.

Hunger Task Force's new Southside Community Resource Center offers a waiting area for families with children.

Hunger Task Force helps community members apply for benefits and resources

The resource center is equipped with all the necessary technology  including computers, phones, copy and fax machines, and printers  for people to find and apply for resources and benefits. Staff are available to guide and educate people on the technology and navigating the benefits systems, King said, but clients can also come in and use the technology themselves; no appointment is needed.

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The new facility allows up to 20 people to be served at once, including at 10 self-service station computers  double the number of self-service stations at the old building. There's no income restriction to use the space, but many of the benefit and resource programs have restrictions, King said.

The computers at Hunger Task Force's Southside Community Resource Center open to the ACCESS Wisconsin page, where community members can apply for and manage benefits and connect with career, childcare and other resources.

At the new center, Hunger Task Force has also debuted live translation technology to help communicate with clients who don't speak any of the over 10 languages spoken by staff, King said.

Historic Mitchell Street Business Improvement District executive director Nancy Bush helped Hunger Task Force find the building, which it bought in July, King said. Renovations started in September and will continue for the next few weeks.

"It was a substantial overhaul and improvement; we essentially gutted the space ...," King said. "It needed quite a bit of TLC. We opened it up to be able to have the entire Mitchell Street side open, inviting and visible for people."

Hunger Task Force's newly renovated Southside Community Resource Center has an open office space for its eight staff members to work and meet with clients.

The renovation also added a large breakroom where staff can watch television, eat and relax.

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"Those who work here end up taking on a lot and are helping a lot of people who are going through stress and traumatic circumstances," King said. "It was really important for us, when envisioning this space, to make sure that our staff had a place where they could go and recharge. ... It's a space that's befitting of their incredible work and commitment to the mission."

More information about Hunger Task Force resources

Hunger Task Force's Southside Community Resource Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. More information can be found at hungertaskforce.org/get-help/foodshare-resources.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Hunger Task Force Mitchell Street resource center moves to new building
The UN's nuclear watchdog defended itself on Monday against criticism from the Ukrainian government following the recent rotation of agency experts at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry sent a note of protest to the Vienna-based International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for transporting the experts to the plant, which is on the edge of the front line in eastern Ukraine, via a route through Russian-controlled territory.

Behind the protest is the concern in Kiev that the IAEA's permanent presence at the plant and the new route could be tantamount to international recognition of the Russian occupation.

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Kiev has long opposed UN experts entering through Russian-controlled territory, arguing it legitimized the Kremlins false claims of ownership.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi said on Monday that it was an "extraordinary exception" to the usual travel to and from the plant via Ukrainian territory. He said fears for the "security of [his] staff" were behind the decision, noting that Russia drones hit an IAEA convoy in December.

He emphasized that his decision had no broader political meaning.

Russian forces seized the plant shortly after the invasion nearly three years ago. Although it no longer generates power and remains largely shut down, safety risks persist. The IAEA deploys staff to the site on a rotational basis.
Authorities in Ibiza have announced an agreement with Airbnb to work together and crack down on unregulated holiday lets on its platform.

Consell dEivissa (Ibizas Island Council) announced on 20 February that it signed a historic and unprecedented agreement with the short-term letting platform, along with Ibizan tourist accommodation associations, to collaborate in combating unregulated tourist accommodation on the Spanish island that that operate on the margins of legality.

The council says that this agreement will help ensure environmental, social and economic sustainability for the island, as well as enhancing the quality of tourism.

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Ibiza is one of the most popular destinations for British tourists, attracting partygoers to its club scene, as well as families seeking beach holidays along its white sand coastline.

However, like many other Spanish destinations, short-term rentals used for holiday lets have become a point of contention with permanent residents.

Airbnb is committing to accelerate the process of removing listings that go against local regulations, as well as working with the council to put measures in place to address the unregulated tourist lets.

So far, 300 accommodations have been taken down as part of this new agreement, yet this number could still rise as the effort is ongoing.

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The president of Consell dEivissa, Vicent Mari, thanked Airbnb for its collaboration and says the agreement is "a milestone in the roadmap that we set out more than five years ago to lead a relentless fight against the island's unregulated [tourist accommodation] supply".

Tourist accommodation will be removed from Airbnb if the authorities identify it as going against local regulations and Airbnbs terms of service.

Illegal tourist accommodation in Ibiza includes multi-family homes such as flats, rooms inside apartments and homes with multiple occupancy, camping outside of campsites, and those that are not registered and authorised by the council.

The council also has a portal on its website that identifies all tourist accommodations, companies and guides that have registered with the council.

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Jaime Rodriguez de Santiago, the general manager of Airbnbs marketing services said: This joint commitment between the public sector, Airbnb and the representative organizations of the tourism sector, underlines the common interest in ensuring that Ibiza remains an exceptional and quality tourist destination for future generations.

The Ibiza Tourist Accommodation Association, the Ibiza and Formentera Hotel Business Federation and tourist promotion company Fomento del Turismo, who also signed the agreement, will be working with the council and Airbnb to promote and assist in tackling unregulated accommodation.

The crackdown on unregulated short-term rentals comes after authorities in Ibiza also implemented new regulations to limit the simultaneous arrival of cruises by allowing no more than two cruises to dock at the same time.

Mr Mari said that while the island is not against the arrival of tourists on cruise ships, better planning needs to be carried out to ensure overcrowding does not affect their residents.

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Ibiza is not the only Spanish destination calling for a change in how tourism is managed, with residents in some popular tourist locations have blamed short-term rentals on intensifying housing crises.

A group in Tenerife recently protested over mass tourism on 21 February, with coastal towns being destroyed to make way for accommodation for tourists.

Earlier in the month, a Mallorca campaign group that has led large-scale protests against overtourism said it would be redoubling its efforts.

For more travel news and advice, listen to Simon Calders podcast
If you are unvaccinated and exposed to the measles, there is a 90% chance you will become infected. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and can include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, white spots inside the mouth, and a distinctive rash, writes guest columnist Noreen Womack. (Getty Images)

As a pediatrician who has been working in this state for over 20 years, I am deeply concerned about the rising threat of measles across the United States and what it could mean for Idaho.

Recent outbreaks in Texas and New Mexico serve as a stark reminder that measles, a disease once thought to be eliminated in this country, is making a comeback. Sadly, at the end of February, an unvaccinated child in Texas died  the first U.S. death from measles in a decade.

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The alarming truth is that nearly all these cases are occurring in individuals who are unvaccinated. While Idaho has yet to experience an outbreak, we cant afford to be complacent. The best protection for you, your family, and our shared community is ensuring everyone is up to date on their immunizations.

Measles isnt just a harmless childhood illness. It is one of the most contagious diseases known, spreading easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.

If you are unvaccinated and exposed, there is a 90% chance you will become infected. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and can include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, white spots inside the mouth, and a distinctive rash.

In some patients, it can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and, as weve just seen, even death. This loss of a child in Texas tragically underscores the real danger measles poses. Children under 5, pregnant women, adults over 20, and those with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for these serious outcomes.

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There is no treatment for measles.

Idaho faces unique risks because of our low childhood vaccination rates (81% of kindergarteners had records of receiving the vaccine on the most recent record). The lower the number of people immunized against measles, the more quickly the virus can spread, especially since it thrives when immunization rates fall below 95%. It takes a community to protect those who cant be vaccinated, including the 1,000-plus Idaho children who have cancer or weakened immune systems.

The solution to this threat is simple and effective: the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine. This vaccine is safe, thoroughly tested, and offers excellent protection. Two doses provide 97% immunity against measles. If you or your child missed a dose, it is not too late to catch up. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status can check with their health care provider  a quick blood test can confirm immunity.

In my practice, I have seen the devastating impact preventable diseases can have on families. Its heartbreaking to see patients suffer from conditions that could have been avoided with a simple vaccine.

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I urge every Idahoan to review their immunization records and stay up to date with their vaccines. Parents, ensure your children are on schedule with their routine check-ups and immunizations. Employers, consider offering flexibility for employees to get vaccinated. Community leaders and schools, you can also play a critical role by sharing accurate information about vaccine safety and encouraging immunization.

If someone in your household is showing symptoms of measles, contact a health care provider immediately and follow their guidance on testing and isolation. Again, there is no specific medication for measles, so prevention is the best defense. Once someone is infected, early detection and isolation are crucial to prevent the spread to others.

As health care providers, our job is to protect the health of our community, and the best way to do that is by keeping everyone informed about the risks and the options for prevention.

I do not want measles to take hold in our state. We know the best way to stop the spread of this disease in our country is through proactive immunization. With measles outbreaks in states near us, the time to act is now. History has shown us that vaccines save lives.

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Idaho Gov. Brad Little gives his annual State of the State address on Jan. 6, 2025, on the House floor at the Statehouse in Boise. (Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)

This story was originally posted on IdahoEdNews.org on March 3, 2025.

Idaho Gov. Brad Littles office received 32,366 messages calling for a veto of House Bill 93 before he signed the private school tax credit into law, according to a tally compiled by Littles staff.

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Altogether, Littles office received 37,457 phone calls and emails weighing in on the bill, and 86% were opposed. Little signed the bill Thursday, and his staff released the tally of public comments Saturday.

Gov. Little considers a variety of factors in weighing his decision on any bill that reaches his desk, Joan Varsek, Littles press secretary, said by email. Varsek did not respond to requests for more specifics about which factors Little considered.

House Bill 93 creates a $50 million tax credit program offering non-public school students up to $5,000  or $7,500 for special needs students  for tuition and other education expenses. It was the first private school choice bill to reach the governors desk.

Littles office last month set up an automated phone system to manage the volume of calls urging the governors action on House Bill 93. A recording asked callers to dial 1 for sign or 2 for veto. It also said that the governors office was only accepting feedback from Idaho residents and only one call per person.

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Varsek said the tally did not include duplicate numbers  people who called more than once from the same number.

Idaho Education News first asked for a tally of the phone calls on Feb. 21. Littles staff declined to release the information until after he signed the bill.

Messages to the governors office, including phone calls and emails, asking Little to sign or veto House Bill 93:

Sign  5,091

Veto  32,366

Total  37,457

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The Idaho bill would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to request federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or USDA, through a waiver to ban SNAP coverage for candy and soda. (Photo by Scott Heins/Getty Images)

The Idaho House narrowly passed a bill to ban a nutritional assistance program formerly known as food stamps from covering candy and soda.

House Bill 109, by Rep. Jordan Redman, R-Coeur dAlene, would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to seek federal approval to exclude candy and soda from foods eligible for coverage by the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

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Idahos bill is part of the national movement coined Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA, promoted by U.S. health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Redman told the House lawmakers.

Redman told Idaho House lawmakers soda is the number one commodity spent on SNAP.

After little debate, the Idaho House passed the bill on a 38-32 vote Monday. Twenty-three Republican House lawmakers joined all nine House Democrats in opposing the bill.

The bill now heads to the Idaho Senate for consideration. To become law, Idaho bills must pass the House and Senate, and avoid the governors veto.

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Last week, the Idaho House Health and Welfare Committee narrowly advanced the bill to the full House  on an 8-7 vote.

Rep. Jordan Redman, R-Coeur dAlene, on the Idaho House floor on March 25, 2024. (Kyle Pfannenstiel/Idaho Capital Sun)

Redman also defended the bill against critiques over its definition and concerns by business industry groups who have said the bill would be difficult to implement. He said the bill uses a definition said is used in state tax laws, and modern technology eases the process for businesses to exclude foods ineligible under the bill.

SNAP is not a mandatory program. If its too difficult, theyre not required to accept SNAP. They dont have to be involved in the program, he said. However, I do think with point-of-sales systems today, that the ease of use is actually a lot easier.

Bill would ban granola bars, power bars and lead grocery stores to stop taking SNAP, Idaho House Democrat leader says

The bill defines candy as a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruit, nuts or other ingredients or flavorings in the form of confections, bars, drops or pieces. Under the bill, candy would not include any item that contains more than 10% flour by weight or requires refrigeration.

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Idaho House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, was the only lawmaker to debate the bill on the House floor. Repeating concerns she raised in committee, she said the bill wouldnt just ban Twix bars  it would also ban granola bars and power bars.

Idaho House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, (center) leads an Idaho Democratic Caucus press conference on Jan. 6, 2025, at the Statehouse in Boise. (Pat Sutphin from the Idaho Capital Sun)

She told House lawmakers the bill was opposed by many Idaho business groups, including the Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry, a powerful lobbying group.

The bill wont be workable, she argued, and would prompt grocery stores to stop accepting SNAP.

If we put this incredibly vague and un-administrable definition in front of them, we will simply see grocery stores not accepting this and low-income families unable to get food at all, Rubel said.

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Almost 131,000 Idahoans are enrolled in SNAP, according to figures released last month. On average, an Idahoan on SNAP receives $177 in program benefits monthly, data from Health and Welfare shows.

Rubel argued Idaho should wait to see how the federal government tackles the issue, referencing the Healthy SNAP Act in Congress.

The Idaho bill would require the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare to request federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or USDA, through a waiver to ban SNAP coverage for candy and soda. If the federal government doesnt grant that waiver for Idaho, the bill says the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare shall request such a waiver annually until such a waiver is granted.

The bills fiscal note estimates it would not have a fiscal impact. Applying for the waiver wouldnt cost Idaho money, Redman told House lawmakers, saying it would only require an email from the Department of Health and Welfare director to the federal USDA.

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Republican legislators in Arizona, Kansas, Utah and Wyoming have introduced similar bills to request federal approval to ban SNAP coverage for candy and soda, Stateline reported.

Idaho House of Representatives roll call vote on House Bill 109, which would ban SNAP coverage for candy and soda. (Courtesy of Idaho in Session)

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LONDON, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday that he is still "ready to sign" a minerals deal with the United States.

Despite a fractious meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump last week, he is still willing to have a "constructive dialogue" with the United States, Zelensky told BBC following a summit with Western leaders in London.

Zelensky's statement came after his meeting with Trump on Friday turned into a heated exchange, leading to the cancellation of an anticipated bilateral raw materials agreement.

The draft deal, as U.S. media reported, included the establishment of a fund to be jointly owned by Ukraine and the United States, to which Ukraine will contribute 50 percent of its revenues from the future monetization of natural resources, including critical minerals, oil and gas.

After the Sunday summit, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that leaders at the summit had agreed on a four-step plan to guarantee peace in Ukraine and that Britain will allow Ukraine to use 1.6 billion pounds (2 billion U.S. dollars) of British export finance to purchase more than 5,000 air defense missiles. 
Idaho state Sen. Carl Bjerke, R-Coeur d'Alene, (right) listens to proceedings during the Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee meeting on Jan. 7, 2025, at the State Capitol Building in Boise. (Pat Sutphin for the Idaho Capital Sun)

This story was first published by Idaho Reports on March 3, 2025.

Major changes could be coming to emergency medical services in Idaho as the Senate State Affairs Committee advanced a bill that transfers EMS Bureaus responsibilities to the Idaho Military Division.

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Idaho has never declared EMS an essential service, such as police and fire. As a result, the state is not required to fund it. For decades, EMS has struggled to find funding, and many agencies rely heavily on volunteers and donations.

This bill moves the Emergency Medical Services Bureau from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and relocates it into the Idaho Military Division. The Military Division already coordinates emergency management with state and local government through the Office of Emergency Management.

The bill still does not deem EMS essential, but calls it critical to the life, health, and safety of Idahoans.

House Bill 206, sponsored by Sen. Carl Bjerke, R-Coeur dAlene, heads to the Senate after it passed the House of Representatives 53-15 last week.

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Last years to bill to fund EMS services, declaring it an essential service, failed to make it out of committee.

Local counties and cities would still have control over their own EMS programs and dispatching 911 calls.

Idaho has 196 cities and 88% of the state is rural, Bjerke said. EMS availability varies widely county by county, and many counties do not have ambulance taxing districts to fund the service in the state.

Its time for us to decide how were going to structure EMS in the state, Bjerke argued.

Idaho Office of Performance Evaluations report shows funding, staffing challenges for EMS across the state

In 2021, the Office of Performance Evaluations published a report on emergency medical services in rural Idaho, highlighting funding and staffing challenges as well as pointing out that about 7 out of 10 emergency medical workers are volunteers.

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Should the bill pass, it would also ask for a shift of funding and $150,000 one-time Emergency Medical Services dedicated fund spending authority to cover the cost of transition expenses, $60,000 to contract with a physician to serve as a part-time state EMS medical director to replace the Idaho Emergency Medical Services Physician Commission.

Overall, the state would still not declare that emergency medical services are essential, but the bill may put agencies in a better position to work together. The bill would not provide new funding for individual agencies.

Kelli Brassfield, policy adviser for the Idaho Association of Counties, testified in support of the bill, saying the majority of counties are supportive. There was no opposition to the bill in the Senate State Affairs Committee on Monday.

The bill must pass the Senate before heading to Gov. Brad Little for consideration.

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Springfield, Ill. (WCIA)  House Republicans filed several bills that aim to reduce the financial burden on middle-class small business owners and increase the states economy.

The introduced bills include reducing registration and license fees for businesses and removing taxes on tips, increasing education tax credits and allowing people skilled in the trades to teach without degrees. In a news conference Thursday, Rep. Brad Stephens (R-Norridge) said their focus is to grow the economy of all businesses, particularly small shops, without increasing taxes.

Illinois senator introduces legislation to make textbooks more affordable

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Under the current law, any workers who receive tips have to pay taxes on the tips they receive.

Rep. Ryan Spain (R-Peoria) filed a bill that would change that by removing state income tax on tips. This means service workers in Illinois, from waiters to bartenders, wont have to pay state income tax. If passed this legislation will only be applied to state tax, not federal tax.

One of the introduced bills, by Rep. CD Davidsmeyer (R-Jacksonville), will waive the fees for any business looking to renew their license. To qualify for the fee waiver you must show proof with either a W-2 form or any other tax document that shows you made less than $ 50,000 in the previous year. This applies to business owners who require state licenses to operate.

Similar bills filed by Rep. Kyle Moore (R-Quincy) and backed by House Minority Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) would eliminate fees for all first-year business license fees for any new business and home-based business in Illinois. Currently, business license prices depend on the municipality and the type of business.

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There are many incentives to encourage large employers to set up shop in Illinois and thats certainly important to have in our toolbox. But your neighbor, who is a banker who wants to go from their kitchen to a storefront, also deserves to have similar incentives, Moore said. Small businesses support families. They provide vital local tax revenue for our communities. Eliminating startup fees will help working families achieve their dreams and further boost small business growth in Illinois.

Illinois Secretary of State urges Illinoisans to double check if they need a REAL ID before heading to the DMV

Additional bills aimed to increase the state trade program and ease the pathway for people interested in plumbing, and construction. The following legislation by Rep. Jed Davis (R-Yorkville) will allow people who are skilled and experienced in their respective work fields to teach manufacturing, engineering and trade without a bachelors degree.

Ive gone across the district meeting with different businesses. And one common theme that comes up every single time is we dont have enough workforce, we need more help, particularly in the construction industry where weve mandated hiring practices, Rep. Mike Coffey (R- Springfield) said.

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Coffey filed a similar bill of his own that will create scholarships for students attending vocational schools. Another part of the bill proposes the Department of Revenue give tax credits to people who donate to organizations that award scholarships for vocational schools.

Coffey said this will open opportunities to students and tackle the staff shortage.

They say, Mike, heres the problem. We dont have the technical support to fill these positions, he said. Weve got the work. Weve got a years worth of work, two years, three years worth of work, but we dont have the manpower. So the purpose of this bill is to help. And, you know, one of the things that we need more people trained.

Advocates, Central Illinois lawmakers call for more protections for Mahomet Aquifer

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Another bill would increase tax credits on education expenses. The bill, filed by Spain, will increase tax credits from $750 to $1,500 for families who pay for their kids school expenses from kindergarten through high school in public and private schools.

The credits and fee waivers proposed come during a difficult year for budgeting, Governor JB Pritzker said. During his budget address, he told the General Assembly if they want to spend, he will ask them where they want to cut.

Stephens said that creating these financial incentives will create more jobs and make people invest back in the state.

Its about putting more money in folks pockets and then they will have more disposable dollars to be able to spend and purchase goods and services around the state, Stephens said.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
ILLINOIS  A new Illinois bill would require parents to notify their childs assigned school district if they choose to instead homeschool their student.

According to House Bill 2827, the Homeschool Act would require the State Board of Education to create a Homeschool Declaration Form to be used by a homeschooling program to submit information about a student.

If a homeschool administrator or parent does not notify their school district about their homeschool child, they are considered truant with penalities applying, according to the bill.

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Rare low pressure system to hit St. Louis; causes increased headaches and joint pain

Illinois and Missouri are among 12 other states that currently do not require a notice to school districts or the state regarding the homeschooling of students.

The House Bill also states if a child seeks to attend their public school part-time, a parent must use the declaration form to submit required immunizations and health examinations or a signed Certificate of Religious Exemption.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
CICERO, Ill. (WGN)  Authorities have identified a suspect they believe to be responsible for an explosion in Cicero, Illinois, that left one person dead and 11 families displaced.

The explosion also destroyed the home of a couple who had gotten married the same day.

I ran here in my wedding dress, like down the alley, and was watching from a neighbors yard, Eleni Vrettos, 32, previously told Nexstars WGN. Everything was just smoke at that point.

(WGN)

Officers responded to the site of the explosion in Cicero just before 5 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 15. When the fire was extinguished, authorities found the remains of 31-year-old Anthony Avila-Puebla in the debris, according to investigators.

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Man drives 730 miles to burn down ex-girlfriends new boyfriends house, police say

Over the course of the investigation, detectives said they determined that Avila-Puebla had a relationship with a family member living at the home where the explosion happened. While the family member attended the wedding, Avila-Puebla was seen on video parking his vehicle half a block from the home, removing a five-gallon jug and going inside the building, police said.

Avila-Puebla was then allegedly seen leaving the building with the same jug that was now empty and returning to his vehicle to retrieve more jugs and reenter the building. Shortly after, an explosion happened and Avila-Puebla was not seen leaving the building, according to authorities.

Police said the investigation revealed the jugs contained a flammable liquid and Avila-Puebla was determined to be responsible for the explosion.

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A neighboring building also caught fire as a result of the explosion and another adjacent building sustained minor damage, according to investigators. Officials said a total of 11 units and families were impacted.

The motive for the explosion remains unknown and the investigation remains ongoing.

All other family members living in the home were said to be at the wedding ceremony when the explosion took place. But Vrettos previously told WGN there were also animals inside the home: four of her beloved cats and two that belonged to her mother.

They were the perfect little bunch, like they all got along. I thought I would have them for years, they were all much younger, and they were my home I would say. So now I dont have a home and on top of it, I dont have them as my home, Vrettos said. Thats the most devastating because theyre the ones that give me the comfort through that darkness. My dad passed away a few years ago so we dont have the home as a remembrance of him, too. Its a lot to grieve.

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Crews from across South Carolina help battle wildfires in Carolinas

Vrettos said she recently took over ownership of the home, along with her brother, after it had been in her mothers name for close to 40 years. They were planning to help with updates and renovations to take the burden off, however, they were in the process of transferring home insurance, so they did not have coverage at the time of the fire.

WGNs Courtney Spinelli contributed to this article.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WTVO)  A new bill would require schools in Illinois to change the problematic names of certain mascots if it becomes law.

Rockford Rep. Maurice West (D) filed House Bill 3527 in February, which would create the Prohibition of Discriminatory Mascots Act, which would require schools to phase out any name, logo or mascot that is derogatory or representative of an individual or group based on disability, as defined by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.

The bill is in response to a complaint, filed by the U.S. Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights by the activist group Mascots Matter, which accused Freeburg High Schools mascot, the Midgets, of offending people with dwarfism.

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We need to ensure all schools across Illinois show empathy and compassion in addressing the problematic names of certain mascots, said West. Our schools should be a place we teach our children about respect and understanding, and holding on to sport nicknames considered to be a slur is irresponsible.

If passed, the law would require schools to adopt a new mascot by September 1st, 2028.

West is also behind House Bill 5617, which would amend the school code to prohibit school use the likeness of any person, animal, or object associated with Native American culture.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
An Illinois man pleaded guilty Monday to killing seven people and injuring dozens more when he opened fire on a 2022 Independence Day parade in a Chicago suburb, a stunning development moments before opening statements in his trial on murder and attempted murder charges.

Appearing in a Lake County circuit courtroom, Robert E. Crimo III, 24, withdrew his earlier not-guilty plea in the Highland Park shooting.

Prosecutors initially charged him with 21 counts of first-degree murder  three counts for each person killed  as well as 48 counts of attempted murder. Prosecutors dropped 48 less serious counts of aggravated battery before jury selection last week.

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On Monday, Judge Victoria Rossetti read the charges to Crimo and asked questions to be sure he understood before accepting the plea. He was sitting next to his lawyers wearing a dark suit.

Is that what you went over with your attorneys? Rossetti asked.

Yes, Crimo replied.

He gave mostly one-word answers to her follow-up questions. His mother, Denise Pesina, had a brief outburst at the news and the judge gave her a warning.

Were going to move forward, the judge said to her. You are not a party to this proceeding. If you would like to stay in the courtroom please have a seat and be quiet.

She was allowed to stay.

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The judge said with the plea change, there would be no trial or further motions. Jurors were never even let into the courtroom.

The legal proceedings have moved slowly, partly due to Crimos unpredictable behavior. Last year, Crimo was expected to accept a plea deal and give victims and relatives a chance to address him publicly, but changed his mind at the last minute, shocking even his attorneys.

He also fired his public defenders and said he would represent himself. Then he abruptly reversed himself. As potential jurors were questioned last week, he sporadically appeared in court, at times refusing to leave his jail cell.

He has knowingly and voluntarily waived those rights and pleaded guilty, Rossetti said Monday.

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Prosecutors read the names of all those killed in the shooting and of those injured, with the judge stopping to ask questions to make sure Crimo understood. They went over the substantial evidence, including DNA samples and a video-taped confession to police.

Our community may never heal from the defendants calculated and heinous actions that destroyed so many lives, Lake County States Attorney Eric Rinehart told reporters after court. He received nothing in exchange for his plea. We were 1000% ready to go to trial and prove him guilty to the jury. We have been working for years to prepare our evidence.

Sentencing will come April 23, but Crimo is certain to spend the rest of his life behind bars. Each count of first-degree murder carries a maximum natural life prison sentence. Prosecutors said survivors would get the chance to address Crimo at the sentencing.

Crimo didnt further address the court before leaving the courtroom.

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His public defenders did not address reporters after the hearing.

Security was tight at the courthouse, with bag checks and observers required to lock up their phones.

The change of plea shocked those gathered in the courtroom, including survivors and their families.

Ashbey Beasley, who attended the 2022 parade with her son, said it was a huge relief. She said they had to run for their lives and even though they werent injured, they have had to heal. Seeing Crimo at hearings has added to their trauma.

Every single time I see him, its stressful. Its upsetting for everyone in our community, she told reporters after court. We all just wanted this to be over.

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A spokeswoman for a law firm representing dozens of survivors in a lawsuit said they were ready to pursue civil justice. Survivors and their families have filed multiple lawsuits, including against the maker of the semiautomatic rifle used in the shooting and against authorities they accuse of negligence.

They have all gone home to process, said Jennifer McGuffin with Chicago-based Romanucci & Blandin LLC. They each expressed an individual and a collective sense of relief, but today was a very emotional event and they are asking for some time and space to come to terms with what happened.

The trial was expected to last about a month.

Dozens of people were wounded in the shooting in the suburb about 30 miles (50 kilometers) north of Chicago. The wounded ranged in age from their 80s down to an 8-year-old boy who was left partially paralyzed.

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Witnesses described confusion as the shots began, followed by panic as families fled the downtown parade route, leaving behind lawn chairs and strollers to find safety inside nearby businesses or homes.

Authorities said Crimo perched on a roof and fired into crowds.

His father, Robert Crimo Jr., a onetime mayoral candidate, was charged in connection with how his son obtained a gun license. He pleaded guilty in 2023 to seven misdemeanor counts of reckless conduct and served less than two months in jail.

Residents in the wealthy Highland Park community of roughly 30,000 set along Lake Michigan have mourned the losses deeply. Some potential jurors were excused because of their connections to the case.

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City leaders canceled the usual parade in 2023, opting for a community walk. The parade was reinstated last year on a different route and with a memorial for the victims.

Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering called the plea change an important step towards justice.

Our thoughts and hearts remain with the families whose loved ones were senselessly taken, she told reporters Monday.

The victims killed in the shooting included Katherine Goldstein, 64; Jacquelyn Sundheim, 63; Stephen Straus, 88; Nicolas Toledo-Zaragoza, 78; Eduardo Uvaldo, 69; and married couple Kevin McCarthy, 37, and Irina McCarthy, 35.

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CHARLESTON, Ill. (WCIA)  The Charleston Police Department is warning the public of a text scam that is circulating the area.

The text, which claims it is from the Illinois Tollway, tells the recipient that they owe money for an unpaid bill. Usually, the text also details the specific outstanding toll amount. The Illinois Tollway said that these are not legitimate messages.

Champaigns Day of Fitness aims to give people new tools to stay healthy

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Sometimes, it can be difficult to figure what is real and what isnt. Heres what you need to know, according to the Illinois Tollway:

What is phishing?

Phishing is a common kind of fraudulent electronic communication. It includes emails, websites and phone calls that are all designed to steal money. A common kind of phishing scam starts with an email that looks like it came from a legitimate and trusted source. Then, the email recipients are directed to a fraudulent website or asked to open an attachment with viruses.

The Illinois Tollway will never ask you for your password, Social Security number or personal information through email.

Christian Co. Crime Stoppers seeking tips on Taylorville burglary

Characteristics of a phishing email

Asks for personal information: Many phishing emails request personal information such as credit card or account information, passwords, etc. Official-looking senders email address: The From line may include an email address that appears legitimate. False claims: Many phishing emails make false claims about the status of your account and ask you to update or validate your account by clicking on an embedded link in the email. Fake links: Many phishing emails include links that look valid but that send you to a spoof site. Attachments: Never click on attachments as they may cause you to download spyware or a virus. Spelling and poor grammar: Many phishing emails contain typos and poor grammar in the content. Scam artists use graphics in email that appear to be connected to legitimate websites but actually take you to phony scam sites or legitimate-looking pop-up windows.

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Champaign restaurant sues public health district over food storage temperature

What do I do if I get a phishing message?

Do not reply or click on links with characteristics of a phishing email. If you think the email may be legitimate, visit the companys website by typing the real URL into your browser or contact the company to fact check the email message.

You should also delete the email message from your inbox and then empty it from your deleted items folder.

If you receive a text, you can check your account with Illinois Tollway here, or call their customer service center at 1-800-UC-IPASS (1-800-824-7277) from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays. You can also file a complaint at www.ic3.gov if you receive a phishing text. Forward suspicious emails that appear to be from the Illinois Tollway to info@getipass.com.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
The Long Beach Unified School District in California will open a Center for Black Student Excellence this spring. A U.S. Department letter discouraging efforts to focus on racial diversity hasnt affected the districts plans. (Long Beach Unified School District)

In May, the Long Beach Unified School District in California will open the Center for Black Student Excellence, which it calls a bold step in the districts ongoing efforts to address systemic harm by providing extra support for Black students.

Leaders say they have no plans to hit pause on the project despite a Feb. 14 letter from the U.S. Department of Education that warns against efforts to preference certain racial groups. The strongly worded message from Craig Trainor, the top civil rights official at the department, said schools could be investigated for treating students differently on the basis of race.

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The Long Beach community asked for a space that lifts the experience of Black youth, said Deputy Superintendent Tiffany Brown, adding that the district has a commitment to listen to those voices.

Long Beach is not alone. While many school leaders bristled at the letters tone, several left-leaning states and districts have since countered Trainors threats with tough statements of their own.

Were going to be as inclusive as weve always been, said Gustavo Balderas, superintendent of the Beaverton School District in Oregon. He called the departments letter an attempt to bully districts. Lets not be hyper-reactive to things that come out right now.

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said in a statement that DEI efforts make the state stronger. California state Superintendent Tony Thurmond assured districts that memos cant override existing law or impose new terms on existing agreements. And Illinois state chief Tony Sanders reminded educators that state law requires instruction on the history of different racial groups and LGBTQ issues.

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The letter is part of the Trump administrations larger DEI offensive, which has included terminations of government employees and the cancellation of millions of dollars in contracts related to equity goals.

On Thursday, the department unveiled EndDEI, a website where the public can report schools they think are illegally discriminating against students.

Related: Education Dept. Cancels Over $600M in Grants for Teacher Pipeline Programs

Many districts and advocacy organizations like AASA, the School Superintendents Association, have homed in on a footnote in Trainors letter stating that it does not have the force and effect of law and does not bind the public or create new legal standards.

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It is just a letter. Its not rules or regs. Its not changing law, said Sonia Park, executive director of the Diverse Charter Schools Association, a network with member schools nationwide. We have diverse in our name. Its not something were going to fade away from.

Related: Harvard Ruling, Will Admissions Policies at Elite K-12 Schools Be Next?

The letter referenced Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, a 2023 ruling in which the U.S. Supreme Court struck down racial preferences in college admissions. But some experts say the letter is inconsistent with the courts opinion.

The letter goes far beyond what the Supreme Court said in SFFA, and, indeed, even contradicts it, said Neal McCluskey, director of the Center for Educational Freedom at the libertarian Cato Institute. Trainor, for example, said that when making admission decisions, colleges cant factor essays in which students write about the role of race in their lives.

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But thats the opposite of what the court ruled, McClusky said. In the majority opinion, Chief Justice John Roberts said nothing in the ruling should be construed as prohibiting universities from considering an applicants discussion of how race affected his or her life, be it through discrimination, inspiration or otherwise.

Related: Stunned Education Researchers Say Cuts Go Beyond DEI, Hitting Math, Literacy

According to Madison Biedermann, a spokeswoman for the department, officials plan to issue additional guidance. Andrew Manna, an Indianapolis-area education lawyer, said it might also take an actual complaint against a district or an OCR investigation to get clarity on what officials consider to be illegal discrimination.

But some welcome the departments more muscular approach.

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I think, and hope, the department will be at least as strict as the Obama administration was, said Neeraja Deshpande, a policy analyst at the conservative Independent Womens Forum. Shes referring to a 2014 dear colleague letter alerting districts that they risked civil rights investigations if they disproportionately disciplined Black and Hispanic students. A few months later, OCR launched an investigation into the Milwaukee Public Schools, later finding over 100 instances where Black students were disciplined more harshly than their white peers for similar infractions.

This is a fundamental question of fairness, as was SFFA, Deshpande said. OCR should absolutely go after schools that undermine fairness via unfair DEI preferences.

Groups or classes that divide students by race or extra academic support aimed at specific racial groups are among the practices that Parents Defending Education, a conservative advocacy group, argues are illegal.

The American Federation of Teachers, along with AFT-Maryland and the American Sociological Association, is challenging the letter. They filed a lawsuit in federal court Tuesday, saying the vague and clearly unconstitutional memo is a grave attack on students, our profession and knowledge itself.

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Related: Teachers Unions, Sociologists Sue over Trump Ban on Racial Content In Schools

Target-rich environment

Leaders in more right-leaning parts of the country said theyre also not worried about Trainors letter, largely because lawmakers in their states have already banned DEI.

Last year, Utah, for example, passed a law that labels diversity, equity and inclusion prohibited discriminatory practices. When Utahs education department gave the legislature a compliance update, there were no violations to report, state Superintendent Sydnee Dickson told The 74.

We didnt need to make dramatic changes in our K-12 system, she said.

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Trainors letter followed an earlier executive order from the president that called on the education department to devise a plan for stripping districts of their federal funds if they advance discriminatory equity ideology. Officials have until the end of April to devise such policies.

But the OCR letter accelerates the process, warning districts to cease all efforts to accomplish what it calls nebulous diversity goals and that it will begin taking appropriate measures to assess compliance March 1. The department has yet to specify what those measures might be.

Parents Defending Education has already done a lot of the work for the new administration. The organization keeps a running list of districts nationwide that have equity-related policies and initiatives. Last year, it forced the Los Angeles district to revise its Black Student Achievement Plan, which provided additional counseling and academic support in schools predominantly serving Black students. All students, not just those who are Black, are now eligible for the extra help.

Related: LAUSD Overhauls $120 Million Black Students Program After Activists File Complaint

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The groups list has more districts from California than from any other state.

California is a target-rich environment for the administrations causes, said Laura Preston, director of government affairs for F3Law, which handles education cases throughout the state.

She suggested that the state might not want to risk the loss of federal education funds at a time when state resources are needed to rebuild parts of Los Angeles ravaged by fire. But she also questioned OCRs ability to conduct thorough investigations when the department is cutting staff. The letter, she said, sets up a potential clash between states and the federal government. Federal law prohibits the government from mandating or controlling instruction or withholding funds from districts if they dont comply.

Trump keeps saying he wants states rights [and] then tries to be the federal school board, she said. It doesnt work in the long haul.

Committed to full compliance

To show that some education leaders welcome Trainors message, the department last week highlighted statements from several state chiefs who agree with the letter.

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I applaud this directive from the U.S. Department of Education and Florida stands ready to assist other states to end racial preferences in education, said Manny Diaz, Florida education commissioner. And Ellen Weaver, state superintendent in South Carolina, said her department is committed to full compliance with the U.S. Department of Educations directive.

But Diaz, Weaver and Dickson from Utah were also among the 12 state education leaders who last month told Linda McMahon, Trumps education secretary nominee, that they wanted the department to stop issuing dear colleague letters intended to push states to take actions aligned to the current administrations priorities and opinions.

Related: Exclusive: 12 Education Chiefs Ask McMahon for More Control over Federal Funds

McCluskey at Cato said the letter is still consistent with their request, which was to clearly state that dear colleague letters are not legally binding. But he still finds such missives problematic.

For all intents and purposes they impose new law, while those who issue them simultaneously claim they legally change nothing, he said. Of course, they shouldnt change anything. Changing law is a legislative responsibility.

Aaron Spence, superintendent of the Loudoun County schools in Virginia, defends his districts focus on equity. (Loudoun County Public Schools)

Aaron Spence, superintendent of the Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia  which has long been targeted on Parents Defending Educations IndoctriNation map  said hes tried to reassure the community that his district isnt doing anything illegal, like using racial quotas or hiring staff based on race instead of qualifications.

In January 2022, just after his election, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin issued an executive order demanding that schools avoid inherently divisive concepts. But Spence doesnt view his districts DEI office to be controversial and said under federal law, districts are required to report student progress for different subgroups.

People get this pie mentality, which is Oh gosh, if they do more for this group of students, theyre doing less for this group of students,  he said. The goal for everybody is 100% success. Were working to ensure all of them get over the bar of achievement that weve set for them.

This story first appeared at The 74, a nonprofit news site covering education.
ISTANBUL, March 3 (Xinhua) -- A tour bus traveling from Greece veered off the road in northwestern Turkiye's Canakkale province on Monday, injuring 37 passengers, it is reported.

The accident occurred at 6 a.m. local time (0300 GMT) when the bus driver, carrying 42 passengers to the western port city of Izmir, lost control of the steering wheel, the state-run Anadolu news agency reported.

The bus veered into an empty field and came to a stop after crashing into trees, it said.

Authorities dispatched gendarmerie, medical and search-and-rescue teams to the scene. Preliminary reports said three of the injured were in critical condition. An investigation into the accident has been launched. 
Warwick police officers were called to The Event Factory Saturday at around 10:30 a.m. for a disturbance. The Rhode Island Republican Party was holding an election for party chair at the time. (Courtesy of Warwick Police Department)

From allegations of voter disenfranchisement to a police escort out of the room, drama dominated the Rhode Island Republican Partys reorganization meeting Saturday.

Results of the RI GOP State Central Committee reorganization meeting

Chairman: 111 votes for Joe Powers , 45 votes for Jessica Drew-Day

Vice Chairman: 129 for Niyoka Powell , 29 votes for Angelo Kapsimalis

Secretary: 118 votes for Mary Lou Sanborn , 36 votes for Patricia Morgan

Treasurer: Linda Jamison, elected unopposed

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It was the worst meeting Ive been involved in for 15 years, Steve Frias, former Rhode Island Republican National Committeeman and one of nine delegates for the city of Cranston, said in an interview Sunday. People were constantly disrupting the meeting.

The chaos came amid a contested election for GOP chair, which featured the first challenge to an incumbent seeking reelection in 30 years. Incumbent Joe Powers beat out challenger Jessica Drew-Day in a decisive 111-45 vote. Two other candidates who ran on a slate with Powers, Niyoka Powell and Mary Lou Sanborn, also won their elections for vice chair and secretary, respectively, over opponents aligned with Drew-Day. Linda Jamison ran and won her unopposed bid for treasurer.

Powers acknowledged there were theatrics during Saturdays two-and-a-half hour meeting at The Event Factory in Warwick, but insisted he was focused on the job of advancing the states minority party.

My intent is to get as many people to want to be part of the Republican Party as I can, Powers said in an interview Monday. I want to remain as positive as possible, to remain united and continue to do the work we have already begun.

Rhode Island Republican Party Chair Joe Powers was reelected chair Saturday in a decisive 111-45 vote but not without controversy. (Photo from Joe Powers Facebook page)

Powers, a Cranston resident and business consultant, was elected to his first term as party chair in 2023, alongside Drew-Day, who was chosen as the first vice chair. They were meant to work hand-in-hand to recruit candidates, raise money and grow the partys Republican presence in the state. But the duo diverged, with Drew-Day turning her frustrations with Powers into a challenge for the partys top, unpaid leadership job.

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Drew-Day, a South Kingstown resident who owns a video production company, framed her candidacy around grassroots organizing, focused on building local Republican town committees and candidates for municipal offices and school committees. Powers touted his success in earning a spot in Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatleys kitchen cabinet. Being a part of Whatleys informal advisory group, he said, would bring in big returns.

Eleven would-be delegates go unrecognized

What began as a rivalry rooted in contrasting leadership styles devolved into a dispute over the state partys bylaws after two local Republican committees were not allowed to vote in the election.

Eleven people representing the Pawtucket and West Warwick Republican town committees were not recognized as delegates at the reorganization meeting, and were therefore not allowed to vote in the partys leadership elections. Frias, a member of the state GOPs Credentials Committee, said the appointed panel decided in a meeting Friday that Pawtucket and West Warwick Republicans were not credentialed delegates because they had not filed the requisite state elections paperwork.

State law requires anyone who wants to be recognized as official members of their town, city, or district party committees to file paperwork with their local boards of canvassers biennially. In 2024, the submissions were due within the last three days of June.

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Local party committees must then meet in January of odd-numbered years to elect officers, submitting a list of officers and members to the Rhode Island Secretary of States office within 10 days of their meeting.

Of the 36 Republican town or city committees in operation, 17 filed their organization paperwork late this year, according to information from the Secretary of States office. Another three  Burrillville, North Kingstown and West Warwick  never submitted the paperwork to the state at all. However, only Pawtucket and West Warwicks town committee members were not allowed to vote in party elections Saturday.

As long as they had what we felt was substantial compliance with the law, we determined they were eligible, Frias said.

Pawtucket and West Warwicks town committee members failed to meet credentialing requirements because they also did not submit forms declaring their candidacy last year, Frias said.

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The two municipalities whose members were excluded from Saturdays vote are also towns in which the candidates running alongside Drew-Day live.

It was the worst meeting Ive been involved in for 15 years. People were constantly disrupting the meeting.

 Steve Frias, former Rhode Island Republican National Committeeman and a Cranston delegate

Angelo Kapsimalis, who ran with Drew-Day as vice chair, lives in Pawtucket. Patricia Morgan, a former state representative now running as secretary on a slate with Drew-Day, lives in West Warwick.

Morgan sought to postpone the elections Saturday in order to give time for the Pawtucket and West Warwick committees to submit the required paperwork to participate in the vote. Her proposal was denied, causing a ruckus that prompted the venues security team to call the Warwick Police Department.

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The police responded to a call about a disturbance at the Event Center shortly after 10:30 a.m., Steve McMullin with the Warwick police departments records division confirmed Monday. Alan Palazzo, a member of the West Warwick Republican Town Committee, was escorted out of the venue by police, but not arrested.

Palazzo in an email Tuesday said he was trying to explain that he had turned in his candidacy paperwork and should be eligible to participate in the vote. However, Palazzo alleges he was prevented from speaking despite following the agreed upon meeting procedure. He in turn accused GOP leadership of violating standard meeting procedure by not allowing him to speak and to rule on his request to be recognized as a delegate.

Tammy Collins, chair of the West Warwick Republican Town Committee was upset to learn that she and the other three town committee members would not be allowed to vote Saturday. If she was able to participate, Collins would have supported Morgan, Kapsimalis and Drew-Day, she said.

She acknowledged she had not filed the required paperwork last year to make her candidacy official. However, Collins said that in previous elections, the GOP chair had authorized her and other town committee members as delegates, even without the paperwork.

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Party bylaws give discretion to the Republican Party chair to appoint ad hoc local party committee members even if they dont submit the right paperwork to the state. Powers did just that for two other committees, Cumberland and Warwick, which asked him to do so months before the election.

Powers said credentials for Pawtucket and West Warwick had not come through.

He instead shifted blame onto Morgan, Palazzo and other dissenters for their behavior on Saturday.

We had established rules and regulations in our executive meeting that both candidates had agreed to, and part of that was decorum in the room, Powers said.

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Referring to Palazzo, Powers said, The gentleman from West Warwick was being loud and belligerent.

There was no election integrity, said challenger Jessica Drew-Day who lost the election for chair of the Rhode Island Republican Party to incumbent Joe Powers on Saturday. (Photo by Laura Paton/Rhode Island Current)

No one heard my voice, which is why I lost

Drew-Day refers to Palazzo as the man who had his voice silenced.

She described her concerns in terms of fairness.

There was no election integrity, Drew-Day said.

The 11 people disqualified from voting would not have swayed the outcome of any of the leadership elections. But Drew-Day said she was also denied access to the list of names and contact information for delegates, preventing her from meeting with them before the vote.

No one heard my voice, which is why I lost, Drew-Day said. If I had an opportunity to go and speak with people beforehand, I would have been able to answer their questions, hear their concerns, let them get to know me.

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Powers declined to comment on Drew-Days allegations, saying he did not discuss internal party information. But, he said, Drew-Day has access to all town party committees, which are posted on the state GOP website, along with a name and phone number for each committee chair.

Powers pledged to try to unify the party, despite the fractures on display at the recent organizational meeting.

My sole goal as a businessman is to get everyone to work together, he said. I am just going to keep moving forward and do what I can to make the Rhode Island Republican Party thrive.

Drew-Day also said she does not intend to file a complaint with the Secretary of State or national party over the election.

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What I am doing next is just going back to work, she said. What I hope is we can come together, and if I decide to run again, this wont be used against me.

Members of the Pawtucket Republican City Committee did not respond to inquiries for comment on Monday.

Updated to include comments from Alan Palazzo.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A 67-year-old man from Independence, Missouri was killed on Sunday morning after a single-vehicle crash in Lafayette County.

He was driving westbound on I-70 in 1997 Chevrolet 1500 before going off the right side of the road.

See the latest headlines in Kansas City and across Kansas, Missouri

According to Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Chevrolet hit a sign post, followed by a tree, then caught on fire.

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The man was taken to Research Medical Center by helicopter, where he was pronounced dead.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
By Manoj Kumar and Shivangi Acharya

NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India's trade minister Piyush Goyal started on a trip to the United States on Monday to pursue trade talks, two government officials said, with weeks to go for President Donald Trump's planned reciprocal tariffs.

Goyal's visit was sudden, as he departed after cancelling previously scheduled meetings until March 8, the officials said. He is also the minister for industry.

India's trade ministry did not immediately respond to an e-mailed request for comment.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the U.S. last month, both nations agreed to work on the first segment of a trade deal by the fall of 2025, aiming for bilateral trade worth $500 billion by 2030.

Trump's proposal to impose reciprocal tariffs from early April on trading partners including India is worrying Indian exporters in sectors ranging autos to agriculture, with Citi Research analysts estimating potential losses at about $7 billion a year.

During the visit, Goyal will seek clarity on US reciprocal tariffs to assess their impact on India, one of the government sources said, and may also discuss potential Indian concessions and a trade deal to reduce tariffs and boost bilateral trade.

India is open to discuss tariff cuts on industrial products, including automobiles and chemicals, but is resisting pressure to lower tariffs on agricultural products, arguing it would impact millions of poor farmers, sources said.

To ease trade tension, India has already cut tariffs on several items, for example to 30% on high-end motorcycles from 50% and 100% on bourbon whiskey from 150%, while promising to review other tariffs, stepping up energy imports and buying more defence equipment.

India's merchandise trade with the United States, its largest trading partner, has increased by about 8% year-on-year to more than $106 billion in the ten months through January, with India maintaining a trade surplus.

Analysts say chemicals, metal products, and jewellery - followed by automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and food products - are the most vulnerable sectors to potential U.S. reciprocal tariffs.

If the United States expands such reciprocal tariffs to a broader range of farm products, India's agricultural and food exports, including shrimp and dairy - where tariff differentials reach nearly 40% - would be among the hardest hit, said a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), a Delhi-based think tank.

(Reporting by Manoj Kumar and Shivangi Acharya in New Delhi; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Gov. Mike Braun addresses reporters at a press conference expanding paid leave for state employees. (Whitney Downard/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

New moms employed by the state of Indiana will now get an additional six weeks of paid leave for childbirth recovery, or eight weeks for employees who gave birth via a cesarean section.

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed an executive order Monday making the change, signaling his openness to future actions in the private sector.

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Previously, many new mothers had to cobble together time off to recover from the physical toll of childbirth by combining maternity leave with six sick days, (paid time off) and reduced salary while on medical leave, Braun said. Were changing that.

The policy applies to full-time and part-time employees, plus staff who lose a child in utero at 20 weeks or more.

Losing a baby unexpectedly is such a difficult thing to endure. I want to make sure that the state of Indiana gives them time off to recover, Braun said.

Braun pegged the executive order-signing to International Womens Day on Saturday.

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The move also expands the states current paid parental leave of four weeks for new parents who have been employed for six months. Braun struck the six-month requirement, though newer employees would get less time off and must agree to work for one full year following their return to work.

The leave policy applies to an employee that gave birth, an employee whose spouse gave birth and parents whove adopted a child.

And requests for both childbirth recovery and new parent leave shall be granted, according to the order.

Braun pointed to the importance of parent-child bonding and his desire to make Indiana an inviting place for people to raise a family.

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Were doing this in this fashion now. What it evolves into down the road, Im going to be open to, Braun said. (This), more than anything, dovetails into what Ive talked about in terms of our state being a place people  and our kids and grandkids  want to come back to. A place where you want a business.

He clarified that he doesnt want to create mandates on how companies manage their resources, adding his perspective on paid leave as a business owner.

I think for companies that are well-established, its something to aspire to, Braun said.

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Indiana families are working harder than ever, yet wages remain stagnant. Our health care remains amongst the most dire in the country. Affordable housing is increasingly out of reach for working Hoosiers. These are the challenges that should be front and center for our state legislature.

Instead, Indianas Statehouse Republicans have spent a better part of this legislative session focused on the people of Illinois.

You read that right. Instead of addressing the needs of Hoosiers, Republican leaders are pushing an unprecedented effort to redraw state borders and annex Illinois counties that voted to secede. This isnt a joke  its a real legislative priority for them. And it does absolutely nothing to help struggling families in our state.

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Hicks: Why are we lowering Indiana's one really low tax?

Adding to the absurdity, this entire effort is being justified by a ballot initiative in Illinois  where voters got a say in their own future. Yet, in Indiana, Statehouse Republicans refuse to give Hoosiers that same power. Our state is one of the few where citizens cant put issues on the ballot, no matter how much public support they have. Instead of working to give Hoosiers a real voice in their government, Indiana Republicans are bending over backwards to listen to the needs of Illinois voters.

Where is that same urgency for the Hoosiers who are struggling to get by? Where is the commitment to ensuring our own residents feel represented, heard and supported?

While Republicans are standing up for Illinois, they are abandoning Hoosiers. They are cutting investments in public health, driving up costs for everyone. They are gutting bills to regulate medical preauthorization safeguards, meaning Hoosier health care will continue to be delayed or denied. They are waging a full-scale attack on public schools, paving the way for complete privatization at the expense of students, teachers and families.

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This is not about economic development or improving Indianas quality of life. Its about consolidating political power. Indianas Statehouse Republicans have already gerrymandered our state beyond recognition  rigging maps to keep themselves in control year after year. Now, they are reaching beyond our borders, cherry-picking voters in a does-nothing-for-Hoosiers political land grab.

Meanwhile, actual Hoosiers  Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike  are ignored and left behind.

And make no mistake  Hoosier taxpayers will foot the bill. A recent analysis from Ball State economist Michael Hicks found that if these Illinois counties were their own state, they would be the second-poorest in the nation.

The residents that Indiana Republicans want to absorb currently pay less than $3,000 in taxes per year while requiring over $5,000 in government support. If this annexation were to happen, Indianas per capita income ranking would immediately drop three spots nationally and Hoosiers would be forced to pay an additional $2 billion in taxes to subsidize the costs.

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Thats right  while hardworking Hoosiers struggle to make ends meet, Indiana Statehouse Republicans are proposing a plan that would increase taxes on Indiana families to bankroll services for residents of another state.

Hicks: Free Indianapolis from state laws and watch it grow

This isnt about party politics. Every Hoosier, no matter their political beliefs, should expect their state government to focus on real issues  jobs, schools and health care  not partisan gimmicks that drain resources and shift attention away from what truly matters.

At a time when families across Indiana need real leadership, Indiana Statehouse Republicans have chosen to spend their time on an ill-conceived power grab. This has nothing to do with improving lives. It has everything to do with maintaining control.

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Hoosiers  regardless of political party  deserve a government that works for them. They deserve leaders who will put aside political games and focus on what truly matters  good jobs, affordable health care and strong public schools, not those who continue to pursue this legislative malpractice.

This is not about Democrats versus Republicans. Its about making sure Indiana families can thrive. We urge our colleagues on the other side of the aisle to join us in setting aside distractions and working together on real bipartisan solutions that will improve the lives of all Hoosiers. Because at the end of the day, we are not just representatives of a party  we are representatives of the people.

Hoosiers are counting on us to get this right. Lets focus on them.

State Sen. Shelli Yoder, D-Bloomington, is the Senate minority leader.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Illinois secession bill shows Indiana GOP ignores its voters | Opinion
The Department of Government Efficiencys elimination of nearly 750 federal land leases is sowing confusion throughout the federal government, potentially shuttering IRS help centers weeks before tax returns are due and leaving prosecutors who handle drug cases near the border without office space.

The cancellations could rattle the real estate markets in places with large federal government presence, such as Washington, D.C., the tri-state area and even Kansas City, Missouri. They have already hit 30 Social Security buildings across the country, according to DOGE.gov, as well as the National Centers for Environmental Prediction in Maryland, which gathers data for the National Weather Service, the Verge reported.

The Public Buildings Service at the General Services Administration, which manages the federal governments buildings, was instructed to terminate leases that allow for an early exit with little regard for the size of the workforce occupying the space or its square footage, according to a GSA official granted anonymity to speak freely.

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The cancellation of millions of square feet of government office spaces are part of DOGEs strategy of rapid deployment of significant cost-cutting measures that will have dramatic effect on the federal workforce  and will be difficult to undo later. DOGE says the lease cancellations have already saved $660 million but that figure is likely an overestimate because it includes lease months that have already been paid, among other factors.

To implement this, officials compiled a list of all federal leases with termination rights and ran each agencys list by the respective political appointees. There are approximately 3,000 federal leases that are currently in their soft term phasemeaning they can be terminated without a penalty or buyout. That is nearly half of GSAs portfolio of more than 7,000 leases.

Over the past week, hundreds of Docusign packages with formal termination notices have been sent out, often arriving without warning to property owners, who are accustomed to working with local GSA contacts on lease amendments.

Most lease amendments of this sort are done locally, with known contacts so confusion is rampant, the GSA official said.

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The rush to cancel contracts has already led to errors. Some leases flagged for elimination do not actually contain termination rights, forcing GSA to rescind notices after landlords pushed back. In other cases, property owners have been blindsided by unexpected termination notices coming from unfamiliar GSA contacts, sparking a flurry of frantic emails demanding explanations.

We were completely shocked by this notice, especially considering that the IRS is actively occupying the entire space, Zaya Younan, the owner of a Phoenix office building that received a termination notice, wrote to GSAs leasing office in an email reviewed by POLITICO. This location serves as the IRSs main hub in Phoenix, and the office remains fully utilized with workers reporting to work daily.

Younan concluded that the termination notice must be a mistake, asking GSA to confirm whether termination was indeed intentional. The property is in fact one of more than 110 IRS offices with taxpayer assistance centers that the Trump administration will shutter.

Elsewhere, GSA terminated the U.S. Attorneys Office lease in Corpus Christi, Texas, leaving federal prosecutors who handle drug and immigration cases scrambling to find new work space. Its also terminating leases for some offices of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which maintains waterways and provides engineering support for the military.

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This aggressive lease-cutting strategy coincides with the administrations push to downsize the federal workforce and to enforce a strict return-to-office mandate. That means thousands of federal workers who still have their jobs will be forced into cramped, makeshift workspaces or left without office space at all.

While mistakenly fired employees can be hired back in a relatively short period of time, undoing lease terminations may prove more difficult to undo.

Once a lease termination notice is executed, undoing it is at the sole discretion of the property owner, the GSA official said. Obtaining a new lease, renovating the space for government use and moving people back is usually a two-year process, assuming GSA still has the contracting staff to handle it.
President Trumps widespread firings of federal employees have reached every level of government, but critics say his selection of whom to axe is hardly arbitrary.

In just a few weeks on the job, President Trump has fired numerous inspectors general, forced out top FBI officials and overseen a purge of federal employees.

Some of the removals have targeted a series of officials sure to conduct oversight of Trumps actions.

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Other firings have been described by critics as retribution against agencies and institutions Trump has feuded with. Many have targeted the Democratic leaders of boards designed to handle employee complaints or protect consumer interests.

And then there is Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which have sought to shrink the entire government with broad workforce reductions.

Critics see an effort by Trump to stifle his opponents and go after bureaucrats hes long decried as the deep state.

What were seeing is an effort by Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE and their cronies to purge what they wrongly perceive as their adversaries among federal employees from the treetops to the grassroots, said Norm Eisen, whose group State Democracy Defenders Action has brought a flurry of litigation on behalf of fired employees.

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Eisen called the firings the cutting edge of the autocratic takeover.

The Trump administration has defended its actions.

There are a number of bureaucrats who are resistant to the democratic process and mandate delivered by the American people. President Trump is only interested in the best and most qualified people who are also willing to implement his America First Agenda on behalf of the American people, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.

Its not for everyone, and thats okay.

The oversight apparatus

Trump within his first week in office fired 17 inspectors general in what critics called a midnight massacre, and he has forged ahead in firing the leaders of other oversight boards.

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It is more about taking out in advance those who would otherwise be in a position to cause Trump 2.0 problems and instead, either replace them with loyalists where possible, or simply have someone in an acting capacity who is now intimidated, said Mark Zaid, who is among the lawyers helping fired employees launch lawsuits against the administration.

It is an anticipatory, preemptive move to ensure those agencies, entities and individuals cannot cause him problems.

Trump fired the head of the Office of the Special Counsel, which helps protect employees from wrongful termination, including reprisals against whistleblowers, and also enforces Hatch Act prohibitions on electioneering.

The head of the office, Hampton Dellinger, scored an early victory in court and was reinstated after arguing he was entitled to serve his full five-year term. The Trump administration has aggressively fought the case, even asking the Supreme Court to intervene, but the high court declined to step in at this juncture.

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Trump similarly fired David Huitema, the head of the Office of Government Ethics, which plays a role in establishing standards of conduct and financial disclosure requirements for executive branch officials and monitors their complaints with ethics guidelines.

It really speaks [to], I think, an effort to kind of dismantle all of the institutions across the government that are set up to serve as kind of an independent voice for integrity and for accountability, Huitema said during an appearance on CBS News.

The number of inspectors general fired by Trump has also ticked up to 18 after the president fired the inspector general of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) after a critical report.

Inspectors general are intended to be an independent voice within each agency to review accusations of wrongdoing and misuse of government funds.

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Chioma Chukwu, executive director of the watchdog group American Oversight, said the action defies logic.

The administration fired more than a dozen watchdog officials who are responsible with eliminating waste, fraud and abuse. That is what this administration purports to be about. That is why they allegedly created DOGE. So if that is the case, why would they have terminated these long serving, dedicated public servants without any articulated reason for why they have to be dismissed overnight, Chukwu said.

In carrying out the firings, Trump did not comply with a law requiring him to give 30 days notice of any plans to remove an inspector general as well as his rationale for doing so.

Boards galore

In a series of firings in recent weeks, several of which have come late on Friday nights, the White House removed the Democratic members of various boards dedicated to reviewing employment complaints or looking out for consumers.

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Trump fired Democratic members of the National Labor Relations Board, the Merit Systems Protection Board, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Federal Labor Relations Authority.

He also fired the director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and all three Democratic members of the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board (PCLOB). The CFPB, created under the Obama administration as an idea spearheaded by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), enforces financial laws that protect consumers while the PCLOB works to ensure government efforts to battle terrorism dont infringe on citizens civil liberties.

Many of those dismissed are Senate-confirmed officials nominated to a set term, prompting lawsuits from those who say they can only be removed from their posts for wrongdoing.

I think what unites all of these actions, its an effort to minimize the efficacy of these agencies, said Rachel Weintraub, executive director of the Coalition for Sensible Safeguards.

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They have clear statutory authority about their missions, about their role, and this contradicts that and undermines these agencies abilities to protect the public.

Trumps removal of the employment boards members comes as several have already been asked to review complaints from terminated employees.

In one case, a judge told unions that had sued over various Trump efforts to fire federal employees to first raise the matter with the Federal Labor Relations Authority, whose chair was ousted by Trump.

And it was Dellinger through his post at the Office of the Special Counsel who brought findings to the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) asking them to block the firing of six employees who were terminated because they were still in their probationary phase as recent hires.

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The MSPB agreed  temporarily reinstating the employees  but Dellinger and MSPB Chair Cathy Harris were only able to move forward on the matter after they launched their own litigation to get their jobs back. Courts have temporarily returned them to their roles as the pair of former President Biden appointees argue they are entitled to serve for their full term.

Chukwu said if courts dont continue to keep the members on their boards, some of their work could come to a screeching halt.

If those actions are not reversed, those agencies like the EEOC, like the MSPB, theyre going to be left without a quorum, which means that no formal actions can be taken, which then means that the rights of workers will continue to go unaddressed. That has the potential of harming thousands of workers across the country, and thats not something that any Americans should be OK with, she said.

Trumps interest in numerous independent boards was paired with an executive order seeking to limit their independence, saying board members shall regularly consult with and coordinate policies and priorities with various facets of the White House. The Democratic National Committee filed a lawsuit Friday, arguing it could preclude independent agencies from taking legal positions that dont align with the presidents views.

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The whole point of having bipartisan commissions was meant to insulate them against direct political interference, and it also reflects the technical nature of their work, of the unique significance of these commissioners on their work to perpetuate the goals of the agencies as very clearly laid out in statutes passed by Congress, Weintraub said.

While Trumps firings risk slowing the functioning of each agency, the suits challenging the removals tee up lawsuits that will test the limits of Trumps executive power, likely reaching a court stacked with his appointees who have signaled a broad view of presidential authority.

Theres a real willingness from the administration to kind of fire first, deal with lawsuits later, said Faith Williams with the Project on Government Oversight.

Theyre moving very quickly, and they are not following these laws that Congress has passed, and Im speculating, but perhaps it is because they feel that the courts will ultimately agree with their take on executive power.

The White House in firing board members has cited Trumps powers as an executive under Article 2 of the Constitution, which established the presidency.

Trumps team has defended the firings in court, arguing Congress, when creating the boards, did not have the right to encroach on the presidents power to determine who should serve in the roles.

The Department of Justice has determined that certain for-cause removal provisions that apply to members of multi-member regulatory commissions are unconstitutional, and that the Department will no longer defend their constitutionality, acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris wrote to the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Retaliatory firings

Trump officials have fired a number of staff at agencies the president disfavors, starting with prosecutors who worked on special counsel Jack Smiths team.

The FBI also fired its top five career leaders as well as the heads of numerous field offices.

In firing those staffers, the Justice Department (DOJ) said they could not be trusted to implement the presidents agenda.

The DOJ then demanded the FBI turn over a list of the thousands of agents who worked on the cases of the 1,500 individuals charged in relation with the storming of the Capitol. The department also asked agents to fill out a detailed survey about their roles in the probe.

The list appears to be a precursor to firing many of the agents, as FBI Director Kash Patel has said he plans to conduct a personnel review. Critics have said culling scores of experienced agents will only harm national security.

Zaid, the lawyer helping fired employees, is now representing plaintiffs in a suit to bar the Trump administration from releasing the names of FBI agents who worked on the cases, as well as gearing up for any eventual firings.

That is retaliation, with respect to anyone who worked on the Jan. 6 cases, which to Donald Trump was a direct attack on him and his supporters, Zaid said.

Zaid compared his multiple employment cases to the defense of the Alamo  knowing he will not be able to successfully ward off the firings of all the employees he represents.

We are Sam Houston and Davy Crockett at the Alamo. Were doing our best as were fighting to try and get some people  give them an ability to escape. And then ultimately, once those escape pathways have been exhausted, then all were doing is defending and holding on for as long as we can. But ultimately were going to lose. Were going to be overrun, overpowered, he said.

But theres a reason why the Alamo is remembered 170 or so years later  because of the principled stand that they took and the sacrifice.

Trump also fired head of the National Archives Colleen Shogan last month, targeting any agency that has received the ire of Trump since it began pushing for him to return documents from his first presidency. The Archives ultimately referred the matter to the Justice Department, igniting Trumps Mar-a-Lago documents probe.

Shogan, a Biden appointee, did not arrive at the National Archives until 2023, well after the Justice Department investigation.

Some also see the firing of USAID Inspector General Paul Martin, as retaliatory as he was removed the day after he released a report critical of Trump administrations efforts to gut the agency.

Trump also forced out Ellen Weintraub, the chair of the Federal Election Commission (FEC), which has oversight over Trump as a candidate.

The FEC chair was vocal in pushing back against Trumps claims in the wake of his 2020 loss.

The federal workforce at large

The Trump administration has also taken wide reaching actions to cull the number of federal employees, including recently instructing agencies to fire employees still in their probationary period.

The directive impacts some 200,000 employees hired in the last year or two, depending on their agency, as well as those who were recently promoted  which reignited their probationary status.

Since agencies received the Feb. 13 instruction, thousands of federal employees have lost their jobs, and more cuts are coming.

Theyve made us all less safe, whether its terminating those who guard nuclear stockpiles, keep airplanes flying, control bird flu, fight fires in our national parks, investigate and prevent terrorism and human trafficking and other crimes affecting the American people and on and on, said Eisen, of the State Democracy Defenders Action.

In some cases, the administration has had to rehire some of the workers who were just booted.

The administration turned around and tried to rehire those who manage the nations nuclear stockpiles, who were axed in broader firings at the Department of Energy. And it has also struggled to rehire U.S Department of Agriculture employees who were working on responding to the bird flu outbreak.

So far the administration has fired or has plans to imminently boot some 25,000 probationary workers, a figure that is only expected to grow.

In its next move, the White House has ordered agencies to embark on a reduction in force, kicking off mass layoffs in government.

Agencies have been ordered to turn over their restructuring plans by March 13.

This is an incredibly chaotic and destructive way to affect change, Zaid said of the mass firings.

I think theres probably merit in many of the things that Trump is doing, but not in the matter in which he is doing it.  Not in a manner that is destructive and contrary to the very missions of what these agencies are trying to do. And haphazardly [cutting employees] in a way that harms morale, undercuts the ability of these agencies to actually function, will, without a doubt, cause disruption upon the average American that has not yet been felt, he added.

And it is when that happens when we will start to see pushback against this administration.

Updated at 10:32 a.m. EST

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Brentwood, Tennessee-based Interstate Health has announced the addition of three prominent leaders to its advisory board.

Former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Newt Gingrich, along with Joe DeSantis and Nicholas S. Zeppos, join the board as the company seeks to expand its health care model across Americas highways, Interstate Health said on Wednesday.

The company, launched in November 2022, focuses on serving commercial drivers and rural communities and aims to address critical health care needs. It is estimated that 46 million Americans live in medically underserved areas. With a nationwide network of clinics offering primary care, urgent care and occupational health services, Interstate Health is working to improve health outcomes for the estimated 3.5 million truck drivers who keep Americas economy moving.

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Gingrich, currently chairman of Gingrich 360, a multimedia production and consulting company based in Arlington, Virginia, is also a Fox News contributor, podcast host, syndicated columnist and author. He was speaker from 1995 until 1999 and a Republican candidate for president in 2012.

DeSantis, chief strategy officer for Gingrich 360, also leads the consulting division, with clients in health care, aviation and education. DeSantis serves as Gingrichs primary liaison with campaigns and lawmakers.

Zeppos, who served as chancellor and CEO of Vanderbilt University, provides expertise in biomedical research, innovation and technology. His tenure at Vanderbilt also included significant contributions to drug development, health care and media rights.

Our mission to improve health outcomes for the people who work and live along Americas highways requires both a deep understanding of healthcare and a willingness to disrupt the delivery system and remove barriers in order to improve access, said CEO Jeff Seraphine. Our advisory board is instrumental to our success, and the expertise Speaker Gingrich, Joe and Nicholas bring to our organization is going to help us scale our business and reach more commercial drivers and rural communities.

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The addition of these high-profile advisers underscores the growing need for accessible health care among Americas truckers. According to recent statistics, the average life expectancy for truck drivers is just 61 years, significantly lower than the national average of 77.5 years.

When you look at the comorbid conditions that our general population has, you are going to find them at a much higher incident rate [among the driver population], Seraphine noted in an interview with FreightWaves. Starting with things like obesity. With higher rates of obesity, youre going to have higher rates of other things that follow with obesity, like diabetes, heart problems and sleep apnea problems. Its just a less healthy population.

Interstate Healths innovative approach includes strategically located clinics near major trucking routes and travel centers. One such facility recently opened near a Pilot Travel Center on Interstate 40 in Knoxville, Tennessee. The clinic provides urgent care, primary care and occupational health services for locals, interstate travelers and commercial drivers.

Kennedy Shull, a physicians assistant at the Knoxville clinic and daughter of a truck driver, told local NBC affiliate WBIR, The statistics for truck drivers are pretty rough. They have a lower life expectancy, and theyre more likely to have comorbidities such as hypertension, heart disease and obesity. Ive always said Im not gonna let my dad be a part of that statistic. It means a lot to me to be able to make sure that these guys are staying healthy.

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The companys expansion plans aim to open more than 300 locations within six years. This growth strategy is supported by a group of investors, many of whom are current or former executives in the trucking, transit, logistics and technology sectors.

Interstate Healths model goes beyond traditional roadside clinics. The company is developing a comprehensive health care ecosystem that includes telemedicine services and a network of pharmacies. By integrating with fleet technologies, Interstate Health aims to make it easy for drivers to locate facilities along their routes with available parking and open appointments.

That truck driver is so important to the lifeline of this country. Without that truck driver, we dont eat, we dont drink. Anything in your life that you dont think about has probably been delivered on the back of one of those semis, Tim Campbell, Interstate Healths business development officer, told WBIR. Were happy to provide these services so truck drivers dont have to suffer until they make it back home.

As Interstate Health expands its network of clinics and services, it continues to focus on improving health outcomes for truck drivers and the communities they serve.

The post Interstate Health bolsters advisory board with high-profile additions appeared first on FreightWaves.
BEIJING, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Washington's mask has once again slipped. The abrupt collapse of U.S.-Ukraine talks over the weekend was not mere diplomatic friction. Behind the crumbling veneer of etiquette lies Washington's frustration over its stalled scheme to plunder Ukraine's natural resources.

According to a draft agreement between the United States and Ukraine, the latter will put 50 percent of the future revenues from its state-owned natural resources into a fund "jointly managed" by Washington and Kiev.

This deal extends far beyond minerals and rare earth elements; it encompasses Ukraine's oil and gas reserves, as well as crucial infrastructure such as ports and liquified natural gas terminals.

No wonder even Western media outlets called the deal "an economic colonization of Ukraine." Some Ukrainian media outlets also described it as "a colonial agreement."

Despite Kiev's monumental concessions on its economic future, its most pressing concern -- security guarantees from Washington -- was left unaddressed, leading up to the blow-up in the White House.

History abounds with grim reminders of how Washington pursued its own strategic and economic interests at the expense of the well-being or sovereignty of other countries.

The 20-year-long war in Afghanistan left a death toll of 174,000 people, including over 30,000 civilians, and a country in rubble when the United States ultimately withdrew.

Similarly, the Iraq War, waged in 2003 on the pretext of "weapons of mass destruction" that were never found, resulted in the death of hundreds of thousands and paved the way for the extraction of Iraq's oil.

In Ukraine, the pattern is disturbingly familiar. The resources in question may have shifted to rare earth minerals, but the script remains unchanged.

In the long record of Washington's exploitation of others, Ukraine risks becoming the latest casualty. 
RICHLANDS, VA (WVNS)  An investigation is underway after a student was found with a gun at Richlands High School.

According to a post on the Tazewell County Virginia Sheriffs Office on Monday, March 3, 2025, an investigation is being held after a student at Richlands High School was found to be in possession of a gun.

The Tazewell County Virginia Sheriffs Office stated that the situation was dealt with by school officials and law enforcement, and that the student was detained.

We are aware of a situation today at Richlands High School involving a weapon. No students or staff were injured. School officials and our SRO took immediate action. The safety of our students and staff are our utmost concern. Tazewell County Public Schools Facebook Page

No further information was released at this time.

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FORT DODGE, Iowa  On Sunday, the Iowa Air National Guard held an in-activation ceremony for the 133rd Test Squadron in Fort Dodge.

The 133rd Test Squadron was in service for more than 75 years and its main mission was to test equipment before use in the battlefield.

The Iowa National Guard said in a statement that the reason for the 133rds in-activation is due to the US Airforce restructuring.

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In 2023 the U.S. Air Force initiated divestment of certain mission sets as part of

restructuring for what they call the Great Power Competition. The mission of the

133d Test Squadron was removed from the Iowa Air National Guard as a result of

these realignment actions, a press release stated.

The 133rd leaves behind a long legacy of testing experimental equipment for the military, something Brigadier General Mark Muckey, the Deputy Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard attests to.

They absolutely had a dramatic impact on bringing new weapon systems to the battlefield with dramatic effect. And that happened here, a one of a kind facility, only one in the Air National Guard here at the 133rd. Muckey said.

The air men and women of the 133rd will be reassigned to units in Sioux City and Des Moines.

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Four Iowa community colleges will expand career education opportunities for students with state grant funding. (Photo by Brooklyn Draisey/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Four Iowa community colleges will use a combined almost $4 million in state funding to develop or expand career academies for student and workforce needs.

The Iowa Department of Education and Gov. Kim Reynolds announced in a recent news release that Northwest Iowa Community College, Southwestern Community College and Western Iowa Tech Community College will each receive $1 million grants and Iowa Central Community College will receive more than $944,000 to create new programs and increase access to critical job training.

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Iowa is investing in its future through the Career Academy Incentive Fund. High school students across the state gain valuable experience, skills and credentials that will not only help shape their futures, but will also build the next generation of workers in our communities,  Reynolds said in the release. I applaud Iowa Central Community College, Northwest Iowa Community College, Southwestern Community College and Western Iowa Tech Community College for their continued work to grow career academies that prepare students for in-demand careers here in Iowa.

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According to the release, Southwestern, Western Iowa Tech and Iowa Central community colleges will use their grants to add new programming to existing regional centers. Regional centers are described in the release as designated facilities for the delivery of CTE programming that must provide access to at least four career academy programs and serve a minimum of four school districts or a combined minimum of 120 students from at least two school districts.

Southwestern Community College will build a new skilled trades facility, renovate current spaces and develop a welding technology career center at its Creston regional center with its grant funding, according to the release. The center serves five school districts, which previously have been unable to offer welding courses.

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Western Iowa Tech Community Colleges regional center in Denison is still under construction with plans to open this fall, the release stated, and grant funding will go toward welding technologies, health sciences and HVAC career academies.

Iowa Central Community College will focus its grant funding on its culinary arts career academy, one of seven offered at the colleges Fort Dodge regional center. The college will renovate its facility to add a state-of-the-art kitchen and front-of-house spaces, according to the release, bring in its teaching restaurant and construct bakery and coffee shop spaces in the space.

Northwest Iowa Community College President John Hartog said in a news release the college will work with partnering high schools to develop a new regional center and career academy at MMCRU High School in Marcus, as well as renovate existing labs at the high school.

The new, 7,000-square-foot facility will offer career academy programs in education, health care, welding and design technology, according to the release. It will house a health care lab, computer lab and three classrooms for instruction.

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We are deeply committed to student success and fostering partnerships that provide meaningful educational opportunities for students in our rural communities, Hartog said in the release. This initiative will give high school students the opportunity to explore career pathways, gain essential workforce skills, and help strengthen our regions talent pipeline. We are grateful for the collaboration with Superintendent Barkel and the partnering high schools, as well as any future schools that may join us, in making this opportunity a reality. I am excited about the positive impact this Regional Center and career academy will have on students and our communities for years to come.

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TEHRAN, Iran (AP)  A former Iranian foreign minister who was key to the country's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers reportedly tendered his resignation Monday from the government of reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian, caving in to pressure from hard-liners.

The resignation of Mohammad Javad Zarif signaled Tehran's rapid retreat from its outreach to the West as U.S. President Donald Trump intensifies sanctions on the country.

Zarif has served as vice president to Pezeshkian and has long been a target of hard-liners within the country's theocracy. He had tried to resign once before as vice president.

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The development comes after Iran's parliament on Sunday impeached Finance Minister Abdolnasser Hemmati, who once ran for the presidency signaling he'd be willing to talk to the U.S. president directly.

While lawmakers focused on their criticism of Hemmati over Iran's plummeting rial currency, his removal also underscored the danger faced by Pezeshkian, who won election last year promising to reach out to the West to get sanctions lifted.

Pezeshkian may have worse days ahead, warned Mohmmad Ebrahim Ansari Lari, a reformist and a political analyst.

A new resignation from Zarif

The state-run IRNA news agency reported on Monday that Zarif handed in his resignation to Pezeshkian late the previous night, though it was unclear if the president accepted it. It marked the second time Zarif has attempted to resign as Pezeshkian's vice president for strategic affairs.

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Writing on the social platform X, Zarif said he met Sunday with the head of the country's judiciary, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei.

Referring to the countrys conditions, he recommended that I return to university to prevent further pressure on the government, Zarif wrote. "I immediately accepted.

Zarif did not elaborate on what Mohseni-Ejei told him and there was no readout from the judiciary on the conversation. However, hard-liners had targeted Zarif since Pezeshkian's election, citing a law that bars people from any sensitive Iranian public office if they have children holding foreign passports. Zarif's children are naturally born U.S. citizens as he had lived in the United States when serving as a local staffer with Iran's mission to the United Nations in New York.

That had not previously stopped Zarif from rising within Iran's Foreign Ministry.

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Zarif has used resignation announcements in the past in his political career as leverage, including in a dispute last year over the composition of Pezeshkian's Cabinet. The president had rejected that resignation.

On Monday, Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said Pezeshkian had yet to accept Zarif's resignation.

The law on recruiting individuals for sensitive positions will deprive the country from many of its human resources," she said, criticizing the law that entangled Zarif.

Iran's position on talks harden

In recent months, things have changed drastically for Iran following Trump's return to the White House. While Iran's 85-year-old supreme leader in August opened the door to negotiations with the West, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei slammed it shut again in February.

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Trump, while suggesting he was willing to negotiate with Tehran, also has embarked on a renewed maximum pressure campaign of sanctions.

Pezeshkian himself on Sunday seemingly followed suit with Khamenei's new edict.

My belief was that talks are better but the supreme leader has said we do not negotiate with the U.S and we will go forward in the direction of the statements of our top leader, Pezeshkian said.

The U.S. sanctions come as Iran has accelerated its production of near weapons-grade uranium, according to a report by the United Nations nuclear watchdog seen by The Associated Press. Iran maintains its program is peaceful, but U.S. intelligence agencies assess Tehran has undertaken activities that better position it to produce a nuclear device, if it chooses to do so. Iranian officials also increasingly hint they could seek the bomb.

Both Israel and the U.S. have said they won't allow Iran to make a nuclear weapon, raising the possibility of further escalation after Tehran has twice attacked Israel during its war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
(Bloomberg) -- Iraq and oil companies operating in the countrys semi-autonomous Kurdistan failed to reach an agreement during a meeting on Sunday meant to help restart crude oil exports from the northern region.

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The talks, which were brought forward from Tuesday, hit a snag over the potential role of an international consultant to oversee contracts, costs and payments, according to people with direct knowledge of the situation who asked not to be identified because the discussions are private.

While the federal oil ministry is seeking a significant role for the consultant, the producers of the Association of the Petroleum Industry of Kurdistan are concerned this would give the adviser the right to manage contracts and profits in Baghdads favor, they said.

The potential restart of the crude export pipeline after a halt of about two years following a payments dispute has weighed on oil prices. Iraq has pledged the country will remain within its overall OPEC+ quota despite the new supplies, but hasnt clarified how it will achieve that.

Oil Exports

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Turkey has informed Iraq that the pipeline that runs to the Turkish port of Ceyhan on the Mediterranean sea has been inspected and is now ready to receive oil, Bassem Mohammed Khudair, Iraqs oil ministry undersecretary, said in an interview on Monday.

We have fulfilled all our obligations and are waiting for the green light from the region to set a date for exporting oil according to what was agreed upon at a rate of 185,000 barrels a day, reaching the capacities agreed upon according to the federal budget, Khudair said.

On Wednesday, a technical delegation from Iraqs state-run North Oil Co. and the countrys oil marketing company SOMO, is due to visit the Ceyhan port to discuss some of the pending issues related to the pipeline, according to another official who asked not to be identified because they arent authorized to speak to media.

While Iraq has repeatedly announced progress for the restart of the northern export pipeline, the group representing oil producers in the countrys north have said they needed more clarity on compensation and that the contracts to resume exports arent yet in place.

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Apikur includes founding members DNO ASA, Genel Energy Plc, Gulf Keystone Petroleum Ltd., HKN Energy Ltd. and ShaMaran Petroleum Corp. and Hunt Oil Co. Other producers have since joined.

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By Ali Sawafta and James Mackenzie

RAMALLAH (Reuters) - Israeli troops demolished houses and cleared a wide roadway through the Nur Shams refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, in a weeks-long operation against militant groups that has forced tens of thousands of Palestinians from their homes.

The operation, during a fragile ceasefire in Gaza that has halted fighting there for the past six weeks, has emptied some of the biggest refugee camps in the northern West Bank in what some Palestinians see as a trial run for wider clearances later.

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Nur Shams, outside the city of Tulkarm, is the latest camp to be virtually emptied of its inhabitants following a camp in the volatile city of Jenin to the east and a separate camp within Tulkarm itself.

Residents say bulldozers have been clearing a broad roadway through the area where houses once stood to create easy access for military vehicles, continuing one of the Israeli military's biggest operations in the West Bank for years.

Of the usual population of some 13,000, almost none was left inside the main camp, said Nihad al-Shawish, head of the Nur Shams camp services committee.

"There were about 3,000 people left in the camp and as of today, they have all left," he said. "There are still some people just outside on the outskirts but there is no one left in the camp."

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There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military, which has previously said its operation aims to root out fighters from Iranian-backed militant groups, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, that have established strongholds in the camps of the northern West Bank.

At least 12 people have been killed in Tulkarm during the operation, including both armed militants and civilians, according to Palestinian health officials.

The Israeli military said it had made hundreds of arrests in the northern West Bank over recent weeks, confiscating 120 weapons and destroying hundreds of explosive devices.

GAZA-STYLE DEMOLITION

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The military has denied issuing formal evacuation orders to residents of the camp, a crowded township housing descendants of Palestinians who fled their homes or were forced out in the 1948 war at the birth of the state of Israel.

But as in Jenin, residents have fled with whatever possessions they could carry in shopping bags or rucksacks as the Israeli bulldozers have demolished buildings and torn up roads, leaving the camp resembling the ruins of Gaza.

"People are leaving with nothing but the clothes they are wearing. They need food, clothing, baby milk, everything, Shawish said.

Shawish said the operation, which has coincided with Israeli moves to cut out the main United Nations Palestinian relief organization UNRWA by closing its headquarters in Jerusalem, appeared to be a test to prepare for similar moves against refugee camps across the whole of the West Bank.

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"If it succeeds, they will export it to all the camps," he said.

The operation has drawn widespread international criticism and comes amid heightened fears among Palestinians of an organized effort by Israel to formally annex the West Bank, the area seized by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war.

U.S. President Donald Trump, who recognized Jerusalem as Israel's capital during his first term, has not yet indicated whether he would support annexation, a move that could complicate efforts to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia.

But he has already proposed moving Palestinians out of Gaza to make way for a U.S. property development, and has said he will give his position on the West Bank, which the Palestinians see as the core of a future independent state along with Gaza, in the near future.

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For Palestinians, such talk has revived memories of the 'Nakba' or catastrophe when some 750,000 Palestinians lost their homes after the 1948 war and became refugees.

(Reporting by James Mackenzie; Editing by Christina Fincher)
Israel has cut off the entry of all food and other goods into Gaza in an echo of the siege it imposed in the earliest days of its war with Hamas. The United Nations and other humanitarian aid providers are sharply criticizing the decision and calling it a violation of international law.

A tool of extortion, Saudi Arabias foreign ministry said. A reckless act of collective punishment, Oxfam said. Key mediator Egypt accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon.

Hunger has been an issue throughout the war for Gazas over 2 million people, and some aid experts had warned of possible famine. Now there is concern about losing the progress that experts reported under the past six weeks of a ceasefire.

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Israel is trying to pressure the Hamas militant group to agree to what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government describes as a U.S. proposal to extend the ceasefires first phase instead of beginning negotiations on the far more difficult second phase. In phase two, Hamas would release the remaining living hostages in return for Israels withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire.

Heres a look at what Israels decision means and the reactions.

No word from the U.S.

The ceasefires first phase ended early Sunday. Minutes later, Israel said it supported a new proposal to extend that phase through the Jewish holiday of Passover in mid-April. It called the proposal a U.S. one from Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff. Israel also warned it could resume the war after the first phase if it believes negotiations are ineffective.

Negotiations on the second phase were meant to start a month ago, increasing the uncertainty around the fragile truce. Hamas has insisted that those talks begin.

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Later Sunday, Israel announced the immediate cutoff of aid to Gaza.

The Trump administration has not issued a statement about Israels announcement or its decision to cut off aid. Its also not clear when Witkoff will visit the Middle East again. He had been expected to visit last week.

The U.S. under the Biden administration pressed Israel to allow more aid into Gaza, threatening to limit weapons support. Aid organizations repeatedly criticized Israeli restrictions on items entering the small coastal territory, while hundreds of trucks with aid at times waited to enter.

Israel says it has allowed in enough aid. It has blamed shortages on what it called the U.N.s inability to distribute it, and accused Hamas militants of siphoning off aid.

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For months before the ceasefire, some Palestinians reported limiting meals, searching through garbage and foraging for edible weeds as food supplies ran low.

600 trucks of aid a day

The ceasefires first phase took effect on Jan. 19 and allowed a surge of aid into Gaza. An average of 600 trucks with aid entered per day. Those daily 600 trucks of aid were meant to continue entering through all three phases of the ceasefire.

However, Hamas says less than 50% of the agreed-upon number of trucks carrying fuel, for generators and other uses, were allowed in. Hamas also says the entry of live animals and animal feed, key for food security, were denied entry.

Still, Palestinians in Gaza were able to stock up on some supplies. The ceasefire brought some much-needed relief to Gaza, but it was far from enough to cover the immense needs, the Norwegian Refugee Council said Sunday.

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Israels announcement came hours after Muslims in Gaza marked the first breaking of the fast during the holy month of Ramadan, with long tables set for collective meals snaking through the rubble of war-destroyed buildings.

The sudden aid cutoff sent Palestinians hurrying to markets. Prices in Gaza tripled immediately, Mahmoud Shalabi, the Medical Aid for Palestinians deputy director of programs in northern Gaza, told The Associated Press.

Legal implications

Prominent in the immediate criticism of Israels aid cutoff were statements calling the decision a violation.

International humanitarian law is clear: We must be allowed access to deliver vital lifesaving aid, said the U.N. humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher.

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Hours after Israels announcement, five non-governmental groups asked Israels Supreme Court for an interim order barring the state from preventing aid from entering Gaza, claiming the move violates Israels obligations under international law and amounts to a war crime: These obligations cannot be condition on political considerations.

Last year, the International Criminal Court said there was reason to believe Israel had used starvation as a method of warfare when it issued an arrest warrant for Netanyahu. The allegation is also central to South Africas case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide.

On Sunday, Kenneth Roth, former head of Human Rights Watch, said Israel as an occupying power has an absolute duty to facilitate humanitarian aid under the Geneva Conventions, and called Israels decision a resumption of the war-crime starvation strategy that led to the ICC warrant.

___

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This version corrects to remove the reference to a U.S. National Security Council statement.

___

Associated Press writers Samy Magdy in Cairo and Josef Federman in Jerusalem contributed.

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Red Sea diversions and tariff fears boosted container carrier CMA CGM results in 2024, but the company sees a less clear outlook this year.

The worlds third-largest liner operator reported full-year revenue of $55.5 billion in 2024, up 18% y/y. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization was $13.4 billion, with an EBITDA margin of 24.2%.

Net income for the privately held company was $5.71 billion, up 2.07% y/y.

Revenue from container shipping was $36.5 billion, ahead 16.2% from 2023. EBITDA soared to $11.24 billion, up 51.9%. EBITDA margin was 7.2 points better at 30.8%, which compares to 31.2% for competitors Ocean Network Express, 24.6% for Maersk (OTC: AMKBY) and 24.2% for Hapag-Lloyd.

CMA CGM with Cosco Shipping of China, Taiwans Evergreen, and OOCL of Hong Kong operates in the capacity-sharing Ocean Alliance, which has been extended until 2032. In an earnings call reported by Bloomberg, company executives said that the effect of U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports could be mitigated by the shift of supply chains to other regions.

CMA CGMs global twenty-foot equivalent unit volume climbed 7.8% to 23.57 million TEUs, ahead of overall market growth of 6.2%.

Logistics revenue totaled $18.4 billion, a 20.9% increase from 2023.

The ocean shipping industry is also facing substantial proposed U.S. charges on Chinese-made vessels, which could have substantial effects on the Ocean Alliances operations.

Our group has delivered strong results this year, driven by our shipping activities. Our logistics business has also performed well, supported by the strategic investments made in recent years said Rodolphe Saade, chairman and chief executive whose family controls the Marseilles, France-based company, in an earnings release. In 2025, in a context of heightened geopolitical tensions and unprecedented uncertainty, our group will continue to strengthen its position with an expanding low-carbon fleet, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a workforce trained to tackle the challenges ahead. With these solid foundations, I am confident in our ability to adapt and continue delivering exemplary service to our customers.

The company said conflicts in the Middle East led to disruptions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, which forced vessels to divert on longer voyages around Africas Cape of Good Hope. While the earnings release did not explicitly state it, CMA CGM and other major carriers saw 2024 results buoyed by lower capacity and corresponding higher rates.

At the same time, CMA CGM was the only major liner in 2024 that continued to operate some scheduled services in the Red Sea under military escort.
Israel intends to impose a hell plan on Gaza this week to force an agreement on the extension of the ceasefire, sources have said.

It could involve cutting off electricity and water, as well as potential efforts to again displace the civilian population from the north of the enclave, and comes after Benjamin Netanyahus decision on Sunday to halt humanitarian supplies.

Government sources have briefed journalists that they hope this will force Hamas to look again at a US proposal to extend the current ceasefire until after the period of Ramadan and Passover.

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If the terror group refused, the ratcheting measures would lead to a resumption of all-out war in the Gaza Strip, government officials said.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have already stepped up strikes on alleged suspicious activity in Gaza in recent days.

The 42-day first phase of the hostage-ceasefire deal ended at the weekend, with no agreement in place for what happens next.

Under the original agreement, phase one would give way to phase two, which should involve the return of all living and dead hostages, further releases of Palestinian prisoners, the complete withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza and serious discussions about the enclaves political future.

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Israel has been reluctant to contemplate the latter two points, instead backing a proposal by Steve Witkoff, the US Middle East envoy, of releasing half the remaining hostages on the first day of a Ramadan-Passover extension, with the remaining half released at the end, providing that an agreement about Gazas future had been reached.

Hamas has rejected the plan and called for phase two to go ahead as originally outlined.

Aid agencies have sounded alarm at the decision to halt aid convoys.

Palestinian children gather to receive food from a charity kitchen in Khan Younis. Aid agencies have shown alarm at the Israeli governments decision to halt aid convoys - Hatem Khaled/Reuters

Amjad Al Shawa, the director of the Palestinian NGOs Network, said: This decision to prevent the entry of food, medicine, fuel and other shelter items  which people [are] in bad need [of]  while we are engaged on such a humanitarian response, will complicate our efforts to alleviate the suffering.

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However, Israel said on Monday that Hamas had enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic for its fighters.

Ariel Kellner, a Knesset member from Mr Netanyahus Likud party, said: Without this aid, they can continue to live for a very long time.

Shutting down aid in a real way would be shutting off the electricity and water and fuel. If that doesnt work, we will use force.

Attacks in Israel

Israel is reeling from what appeared to be a terror attack on its transport network, with one person killed and at least four wounded in a stabbing spree in Haifa on Monday.

The man who died was in his 60s and was stabbed several times in the back, while a 15-year-old boy was taken to hospital for emergency surgery.

Credit: Social Media

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It came after a ramming attack at a bus stop on Thursday and a series of botched bus bombings in Tel Aviv two weeks ago.

There is growing discomfort on the Israeli Right that Hamas has used the ceasefire and the dying weeks of the Biden administration, when Israel was forced to allow through more aid, to build up its supplies and infrastructure.

The decision by Mr Netanyahus security cabinet has been welcomed by many commentators, who also say that cutting off electricity  in particular to Gazas desalination plant  plus the intermittent closure of water would put the enclave into a stranglehold. Stopping the inflow of bulldozers and mobile structures has also been called for.

Ramadan, the month-long fasting festival, is seen as a provocative time to impose restrictions on the Muslim-dominated region.

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However, Israeli government sources said that they believe Hamas currently has no appetite for a return to war.

On Monday, it was reported that an Arab diplomat from one of the main countries involved in the negotiations said that, behind the scenes, the terror group appeared willing to be more flexible.

Camps of tents have been set up for displaced Palestinians in Gaza. Donald Trumps administration has backed the idea of expelling Palestinians from the enclave entirely - Jehad Alshrafi/AP

Other sources have suggested the group might accept a two-week extension before insisting on phase two of the ceasefire beginning.

Arab countries are reportedly nearing an agreement on an alternative plan for Gaza to that of Donald Trump, the US president, who wants to remove the enclaves population and turn it into a resort.

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The Arab scheme would sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by both Arab, Muslim and Western states, it has been reported.

Reuters reported that an Egyptian-led vision for Gaza will be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday.

Hamas has previously rejected any idea of a future for the enclave being imposed on Palestinians by outside states.

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AMMAN (Reuters) - Israeli forces on Monday struck a military site where arms belonging to the previous Syrian government were stored in Qardaha, in the mountains of Latakia province, northwest Syria, the military said in a post on its Telegram channel.

Syrian sources said the raids struck three former Syrian army assets, a radar station north of the city, weapons depot and a berth near Syria's Mediterranean port of Tartous, which is a driving distance away from Latakia.

Syrian state news agency SANA also confirmed the strikes in the vicinity of Tartous, which it said caused no casualties.

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Israel has been carrying out extensive airstrikes on Syrian military bases including in Latakia in the wake of former President Bashar al-Assad's ouster and has moved forces into a U.N.-monitored demilitarised zone within Syria.

(Reporting by Suleiman Al Khalidi; Muhammad Al Gebaly and Jaidaa Taha; editing by Mark Heinrich and Sandra Maler)
Israeli Culture Minister Miki Zohar on Monday described the Oscar win for "No other land," an Israeli-Palestinian documentary about the demolition of Palestinian villages in the West Bank, as "a sad moment for the world of cinema."

The Israeli right-wing religious government that Zohar belongs to is considered to be friendly towards Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, who have been accused of trying to take more land by violently evicting Palestinians from their homes.

Filmmakers Basel Adra, a native of the West Bank, and Yuval Abraham, an Israeli journalist, used the opportunity to address the situation in the region when accepting the Oscar for "No other land" onstage during the 97th Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday night.

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Israeli Culture Minister Zohar criticized their documentary in an English-language post on X, accusing the filmmakers of having choosen "to amplify narratives that distort Israel's image vis-a-vis international audiences" instead of "presenting the complexity of Israeli reality."

"Freedom of expression is an important value, but turning the defamation of Israel into a tool for international promotion is not art - it is sabotage against the State of Israel, especially in the wake of the October 7th massacre and the ongoing war," Zohar wrote.

"This is precisely why we passed a reform in state-funded cinema  to ensure that taxpayer money is directed toward works of art that speak to the Israeli audience, rather than an industry that builds its career on slandering Israel on the global stage," he added.
HAIFA, Israel (Reuters) -One person was killed and four were wounded in a stabbing attack at a bus station in the city of Haifa, Israel's ambulance service said, in what police described as a terrorist attack.

Security guards shot and killed the assailant, a police spokesperson said. It was not immediately clear whether the man killed was stabbed by the assailant or shot by the guards.

Police said that the assailant was an Israeli citizen from a nearby Arab Druze town who had returned from abroad in May and that the attack was still being investigated.

Palestinian militant group Hamas praised the attack but did not claim it.

(Reporting by Avi Ohayon; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Jack Vettriano, who has died aged 73, was a self-taught Scottish painter who was treated with contempt by the art establishment but became one of the most commercially successful artists of his generation.

A late starter who did not sell a painting until he was 38, Vettriano established a signature style that, though reminiscent of Edward Hopper, was indisputably his own. His work paid little heed to temporal or topographical concerns; rather, he inhabited the landscape of his imagination, a mysterious, nostalgic, exotic world peopled by elegant women and predatory men located on windswept beaches and esplanades, or in bars, bedrooms and dance halls.

His paintings had a strong narrative content and were suffused with glamour, but there was also melancholy, and the cold, seedy eroticism of fetishism and loveless passion. Vettrianos obsession was women, and his interest lay in their relationships with men.

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But many critics objected that there was no emotion in his paintings, simply people existing in space, their togetherness no more than an empty narrative devoid of significance.. Some went further: one described his work as slick pornography, while another, alluding to the imperfections of his autodidactic technique, accused him of just colouring in. His supporters claimed that such criticism was fuelled by jealousy and artistic snobbery, and there could be little doubt that the artist embodied the divide between high and low culture.

Vettrianos best-known painting, The Singing Butler - Sandy Young/Alamy

Vettrianos life and work were inextricable. While emphasising his reclusive nature, the artist was happy to tell interviewers about his inability to maintain relationships, his visits to brothels, his casual sex. These were at the core of his art and its voyeuristic nature.

But if his art divided the critics, no one could dispute its popularity. His most famous painting, the enigmatic The Singing Butler (1991), which depicted a couple dancing on a beach with a butler and maid in attendance, was sold by Sothebys in 2004 for 744,800. The artists income from posters, mugs, umbrellas, T-shirts, mobile phone skins and place mats adorned with the image was reportedly more than 250,000 a year.

For good measure, another beach scene, Mad Dogs, was one of the most popular posters of the age. But when critics set his commercial success against his perceived technical, aesthetic and artistic shortcomings, Vettrianos art raised eternal questions about the relationship between art and commerce.

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He was born Jack Hoggan in St Andrews, Fife, on November 17 1951. His father, William, was a miner who used to say that whenever one of us was born they put another cup of water in the soup and who provided his early drawing materials  betting slips and pencils  from the bookmakers. His mother was Charlotte.

One of Vettrianos early works, Sweet Bird of Youth - PA

He was educated at Kirkcaldy Technical College but left aged 14 to become a miner. He lasted two years, smoking, skiving and thinking about women, before working as an apprentice mechanical engineer, magazine-subscription salesman, trainee chef, barman and personnel officer.

He fuelled his imagination on the beaches and in the ballrooms of Fife. A girlfriend inspired him by giving him a set of paints for his 21st birthday and telling him: If you dont do something youre going to live and die in this town. He became obsessed by painting, and despite being turned down by Edinburgh School of Art taught himself by painting rotting fruit and copying the great artists.

In 1979 he moved to Bahrain to work as a management consultant, attracted by its tax-free status and lack of distractions, and exhibited locally. Returning to Scotland the following year, he married Gail Cormack and began working for his father-in-laws newspaper distribution business. The couple also invested in property, buying, redecorating and selling, revealing the financial acuity that would characterise his artistic career.

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In the mid-1980s he moved to Edinburgh to pursue art full-time, which he did with a ruthlessness that destroyed his marriage. Developing a style loosely based on film noir, he completed each work in a single session, often working through the night.

Vettriano at home in 2002 - Eamonn McCabe/Popperfoto via Getty Images

To distance himself from the copied works he had sold, Hoggan changed his name to Vettriano  taken from his maternal grandfather, Peter Vettrino, with an a added for effect  and exhibited Model in a White Slip, a portrait of his ex-wife, and Saturday Night, a couple in a dance hall, at the Royal Scottish Academys 1988 summer exhibition. Both sold immediately, and the fledgling painter found a champion in the art critic for Scotland on Sunday, W Gordon Smith.

Over the next three years Vettriano built a following, attracting little critical enthusiasm but steady buyers for his romantic, allusive scenes of elegantly dressed gentlemen of uncertain intent engaged with exotic or scantily clad women. If his technique occasionally betrayed his lack of formal education, there was, from the first, evidence of a singular vision.

But if his influences ranged from the sparse settings, ennui and open narrative of Hopper to the brasserie nostalgia of the young Scottish painter Stephen Conroy, Vettriano displayed an obsession with the alienation of casual sex that was entirely his own. And while his subject matter and style were unchanging, his technique gradually improved.

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He looked back on The Singing Butler and concluded that although it had a certain charm, he believed that if he painted it again it would be better . But with its evocation of a lost, more genteel world, the painting attained an iconic status that superseded its technical immaturity.

Vettriano in 2002 - PA/Alamy

In 1993 Vettriano joined the Portland Gallery, attracted by the dealer Tom Hewletts assertion that his best work should be selling for 10,000 not 4,000. Very soon it was, but still the critics sniffed. Hewlett believed that that was because if you have a painting that the ordinary man can understand, it rather puts the critic out of a job. The academic Duncan MacMillan countered: Hes welcome to paint as long as no one takes him seriously.

Vettriano considered MacMillan and his ilk to be breathtakingly arrogant, and said: Theyre trying to kill my spirit. Thats not on. But he was a skilful manipulator of the media whom it suited to play the underdog. He attracted vast coverage as interviewers probed the links between his solitary, nocturnal foraging and the whiff of sexual intent depicted in works such as Back Where You Belong Jack, Suddenly One Summer and The Big Tease  or, more overtly, Wicked Games and Passion Overflow.

The artist, who described his work as strictly for voyeurs, knew his market. He kept a cupboard full of stilettos in his studio, always painted his models in stockings and suspenders rather than tights and often included a third party, sometimes himself, removed from the action, quietly observing.

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Through the 1990s his work developed a darker hue. The sense of the erotic was more overt and a whiff of danger or cruelty replaced the elusive romanticism and jilted disappointment of earlier works such as Dance Me to the End of Love or Table For One, and he painted no beach scenes after 1996.

Vettrianos portrait of the then Zara Phillips, painted for Sport Relief in 2008 - Sport Relief

But beyond its undoubted sexiness and escapism, there remained an identifiable atmosphere in Vettrianos work. His work had a stylistic unity that shifted easily between his favoured locations, and the stagey eroticism of strangers rooms even pervaded the sunlit beach.

The sense of danger was not always confined to his work. In 1999 a Scottish tabloid claimed that the artist had stalked a woman, with whom he admitted brief contact. When The Spectator repeated the story Vettriano threatened to sue, and the allegations were retracted.

It was for such reasons  and not, he maintained, to avoid the Scottish art establishment  that he left Edinburgh for the anonymity of London. In his Knightsbridge house he continued to paint obsessively, never straying from the knowledge that the only thing that really interests me is women. And also a sort of melancholic, rose-coloured look at the past. He also had an apartment in Nice, where he died.

Vettriano in 2015 at the launch of a sale of a private collection of his paintings - WENN/Alamy

Despite his self-proclaimed outsider status, Vettriano was appointed OBE in 2003 and was the subject of a hagiographical South Bank Show, as well as monographs and a biography. When he exhibited in New York in 2002, although he attracted scant press interest, buyers flew over from Britain and demand was so great that the event had to be ticketed. In 2008 he painted a portrait of Zara Phillips for Sport Relief.

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In 2012 he was convicted of drink-driving and amphetamine possession. That year, The Singing Butler went on display at the Aberdeen Art Gallery as part of an exhibition entitled From Van Gogh to Vettriano. The following year, Jack Vettriano: A Retrospective opened at the Kelvingrove Gallery in Glasgow.

In 2017, Vettriano was one of three artists commissioned to paint portraits of Billy Connolly to celebrate the comedians 75th birthday. The images were transferred to murals in the centre of Glasgow; Vettrianos is in Dixon Street.

Jack Vettriano married Gail Cormack, who had a daughter, in 1980; they later separated.

Jack Vettriano, born November 17 1951, death announced March 3 2025

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James Harrison, a prolific Australian blood donor famed for having saved the lives of more than two million babies, has died at age 88.

Harrison, whose plasma contained a rare and precious antibody known as Anti-D, donated blood more than 1,100 times, according to Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, which confirmed his death in a statement published Saturday.

Harrison, who was known as the Man with the Golden Arm, died in his sleep at a nursing home north of Sydney on February 17, according to the statement.

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Harrisons altruistic mission was driven by having received multiple blood transfusions following lung surgery at the age of 14.

He started donating plasma at 18 and did so every two weeks until he was 81, the upper age limit for blood donation in Australia.

Lifeblood Chief Executive Officer Stephen Cornelissen hailed Harrisons dedication.

James was a remarkable, stoically kind, and generous person who was committed to a lifetime of giving and he captured the hearts of many people around the world, Cornelissen said in the statement.

James extended his arm to help others and babies he would never know a remarkable 1173 times and expected nothing in return.

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Harrisons daughter, Tracey Mellowship, said her father was a humanitarian at heart.

As an Anti-D recipient myself, he has left behind a family that may not have existed without his precious donations, she said in the statement.

He was also very proud to have saved so many lives, without any cost or pain. It made him happy to hear about the many families like ours, who existed because of his kindness.

Anti-D is used to make a medication administered to pregnant mothers whose blood would attack their unborn babies blood cells, known as rhesus disease.

The condition develops when a pregnant woman has rhesus-negative blood (RhD negative) and the baby in her womb has rhesus-positive blood (RhD positive), inherited from its father.

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If the mother has been sensitized to rhesus-positive blood, usually during a previous pregnancy with an rhesus-positive baby, she may produce antibodies that destroy the babys foreign blood cells.

In the worst cases, babies can be brain damaged or die.

Anti-D, produced with Harrisons antibodies, prevents women with rhesus-negative blood from developing RhD antibodies during pregnancy.

The discovery of Harrisons antibodies was an absolute game-changer, Australian officials said.

In Australia, up until about 1967, there were literally thousands of babies dying each year, doctors didnt know why, and it was awful. Women were having numerous miscarriages and babies were being born with brain damage, Jemma Falkenmire, of the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, told CNN in 2015.

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Australia was one of the first countries to discover a blood donor with this antibody, so it was quite revolutionary at the time.

Considered a national hero, Harrison won numerous awards for his generosity, including the Medal of the Order of Australia, one of the countrys highest honors.

CNNs Doug Criss contributed to this report.

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TOKYO (AP)  Japan's Prince Hisahito, the second in line to the throne, held a debut news conference Monday, telling reporters he would try to balance official duties and his university studies and research about the dragonfly.

Hisahito turned 18 last September, becoming the first male royal family member to reach adulthood in almost four decades in Japan. It was a significant development for a family that has ruled for more than a millennium but faces the same existential problems as the rest of the nation  a fast-aging, shrinking population.

The prince said he would follow the good examples of his uncle, Emperor Naruhito, and other elder members of the imperial family, while pursuing his university studies, beginning next month.

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Speaking to reporters at the Akasaka Estate residence in Tokyo, Hisahito said he believes the role of the emperor as a symbolic figure is someone who always thinks of the people and stays close to them.

Hisahito is second in line to Japan's Chrysanthemum Throne after his father, Crown Prince Akishino.

The prince, who turned 18 on Sept. 6, is the youngest of the 16-member imperial family and one of only five men, including former Emperor Akihito.

The 1947 Imperial House Law only allows a male to succeed to the throne. Female royal members who marry commoners lose their royal status.

Hisahito's older cousin, Princess Aiko  the only child of Naruhito and his wife Masako  is seen as the publics favorite, though the law for now bars her from becoming an empress, despite being in a direct line of descent.

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Japan's conservative government wants to keep the royal succession male-only, though it is looking for a way to allow women to keep royal status if they marry commoners.

Hisahito plans to study biology at the Tsukuba University near Tokyo, starting in April. He hopes to focus his studies on dragonflies.

Apart from researching dragonflies and other insects, Hisahito told reporters he is also interested in studying ways to protect insect populations in urban areas. His other interests lie in growing tomatoes and rice on the palace compound.

Because Japanese royals have to stay away from politics, members of the Imperial Family tend to study biology, literature and arts. Naruhito's specialty is water transport while his father, Emperor Emeritus Akihito who abdicated in 2019, researches fish. Hisahito's father, Crown Prince Akishino, is an expert of chickens.

Japan will hold a coming-of-age palace ceremony for Hisahito on Sept. 6, his 19th birthday.
(NewsNation)  Vice President JD Vance played a noticeable role in the escalation of tension during a combative meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.

Vances vocal involvement was among several noteworthy moments and led to mixed reactions.

The vice president received praise from supporters of the GOP for defending the Trump administration and criticism from supporters of the Democratic party.

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Once Vance truly inserted himself into the conversation, calling for diplomacy for Russia, the temperature between the leaders rose.

Texas border officials using drones to stop smugglers

A Trump administration official told NewsNation that the president and vice president were totally on the same page and Trump was happy with how the vice president jumped in.

The vice president in those kinds of settings, in the Oval Office, typically does not interject the way that Vice President Vance did.

For the first month of this administration, Elon Musk has largely been the most visible right-hand man for President Trump.

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It remains to be seen if Vance will continue to be a staunchly vocal defender of the Trump administration.

Education Department offers $25K for staffers to quit

Many Democrat lawmakers are very concerned about the state of a potential peace deal, and many of them have blamed President Trump and Vance specifically.

Most of the discourse in Washington falls along party lines.

Republicans have been very defensive of Vance and Trump, saying that they were defending American values and that Zelenskyy was disrespectful in the Oval Office.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Mixue Group, China's largest fresh-drinks chain, has launched Hong Kong's hottest initial public offering (IPO) on the strength of its supply chain - and its ultralow prices.

The retail portion of the company's Hong Kong debut attracted more than HK$1.6 trillion (US$205.9 billion) in subscriptions on Wednesday, according to a person familiar with the matter. In terms of margin loans, retail investors borrowed nearly HK$1.8 trillion from brokerages to subscribe.

By this metric, Mixue surpassed a record set by Ant Group's scuttled IPO in 2020 and Kuaishou Technology's share sale in 2021, which both raked in around HK$1.3 trillion in loans.

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Trading in Mixue's shares starts on Monday.

As competition heats up in mainland China's bubble tea industry, investor confidence is rooted in the company's supply chain.

According to a recent prospectus, Mixue generates the bulk of its revenue by selling ingredients - milk, coffee and syrups - as well as equipment to its global network of over 45,000 franchisees. The model is powered by a "comprehensive end-to-end supply chain" that includes procurement, production, logistics, research and development and quality control.

A person passes a Mixue shop in Mong Kok. Photo: Reuters alt=A person passes a Mixue shop in Mong Kok. Photo: Reuters>

"As market capacity can be uncertain in the [fresh-drinks] industry, the fact that Mixue can sell raw materials to its own franchisees and have a clear understanding of their demand gives it a lot of agency compared to others," said Kenny Ng Lai-yin, a strategist at Everbright Securities International.

Mixue's procurement network covers 38 countries across six continents, giving it access to raw materials. And the vast scale of its purchases means greater negotiating power. For example, the Zhengzhou-based company bought 115,000 tonnes of lemons in 2023, making it the largest buyer in the country. The cost of procurement was around 20 per cent lower than that of its industry peers, according to the prospectus.

In addition, Mixue has five production facilities covering 0.79 million square metres with the ability to churn out around 1.65 million tonnes of ingredients and raw materials a year. Its 27 warehouses - spanning 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities - also give it an edge in gaining footholds in smaller markets, where more than half of Mixue's stores are located, the prospectus said.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) late Sunday accused Republicans of walking away from government funding talks ahead of a looming shutdown deadline.

The top Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, Rosa De Lauro, remains ready, willing and able to talk with our Republican colleagues, but there has been zero outreach from the Trump administration and House Republicans have walked away from the negotiating table, Jeffries said in a statement.

Lawmakers face a March 14 deadline to fund the government, but efforts have so far been unsuccessful as Democrats and Republicans argue over who is to blame.

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Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has said he wants to pass a clean continuing resolution to fund the government through September, an idea that was endorsed by President Trump.

Johnson said earlier Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press that Democrats to this point shown no interest in finding a reasonable solution for that.

Democrats have to help negotiate this, Johnson added.

However, Jeffries accused the GOP of being unwilling to work with Democrats, who may have the power to shut down the government in protest if they are joined by at least four conservative budget hawks.

Last week, House Republicans advanced their budget proposal, with a 217-211 vote along party lines. Republicans can only afford to lose one GOP vote and adopt the measure.

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Jeffries argued that the budget resolution vote made it clear that there will be no support from Democrats on legislation that wont protect Americans quality of life, including Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.

Unfortunately, it appears that Republicans, who control the House, the Senate and the presidency, are once again determined to shut the government down and hurt everyday Americans, he said.

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A New Jersey pastor has been charged for allegedly sexually assaulting a teenager in the Trenton area. According to ABC 6 Action News, Charles B. Brinson, 64, was arrested on February 19 by the Trenton Police Department following an investigation conducted by TPD and the Mercer County Prosecutors Office.

Brinson is accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old after allegedly rendering the minor unconscious with a substance in an unmarked bottle on two occasions. Investigations have yielded evidence that the two attacks happened at the pastors home, a location just a block down the street from Brinson Memorial Church Incorporated, in January and February 2025.

A woman named Brooke Baker spoke to the news outlet about the jarring accusations flung at Brinson. She insisted that she actually never saw the man do anything positive for the community and never bonded with any of the neighborhoods residents.

Ive never seen him come out and do anything for the community, to come out and introduce himself to the residents or anything, Baker recalled. To know that we had somebody that close thats doing things and we didnt know? Its kinda freaky.

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According to NJ.com, this isnt the first time that Charles B. Brinson has been hit with these accusations if this kind. The religious figure was arrested back in 2008 for felony contact with a minor, where he was charged for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old Philadelphia native. The embattled pastor ended up pleading guilty in that case to one count of corruption of a minor, resulting in four years probation.

Charles B. Brinson is currently being held at a jail in Mercer County, with a detention hearing arriving in mid-March. Law enforcement in the Trenton area is pleading with the community to come forth with more accounts pertaining to the pastors alleged machinations.

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Sandra Hale Schulman

Special to ICT

Monsters lurk inside and out in the awaited return of Dark Winds Season 3, starring Zahn McClarnon (Reservation Dogs, Longmire, Fargo), Kiowa Gordon (The Red Road, Roswell, New Mexico), Jessica Matten (Rez Ball, Tribal, Burden of Truth) and Deanna Allison (Accused, Edge of America).



At the end of Season 2, family dramas seemed to have been resolved for Navajo Police Lt. Joe Leaphorn (McClarnon), while Officer Jim Chee (Gordon) sees his love, Bernadette Manuelito (Matten), leave the Navajo Police for a job at the border patrol after sharing a passionate kiss.



Will Manuelito return or find a new life  and challenges  away from them all?

Without giving away too much, Matten, Metis tribe, has a very strong role and storyline in the new season. How does she feel about deepening this character both in the professional roles on the show and in a personal life?



It's been just an honor to be a part of the show and true to the journey of the Hillerman books, Matten told ICT by video conferencing from her new home base in New York City. After Tony Hillerman passed and his daughter Anne Hillerman started writing and continuing on the books, she also started to extend Bernadette's character. It's been a joy getting to play Bernadette and seeing that play out on screen.



Bernadette's character in this season, it's all about her taking the Border Patrol position, she's completely in a separate world from Leaphorn and his world in a lot of ways. But there's a lot of parallels internally, what they're going through, interestingly enough.



I'm grateful to the fan base that has followed us on the journey of Season 1 and 2. I hope that they like Season 3 as much as they've enjoyed the last two seasons and that they continue on this journey with us. I hope it becomes something later on in life that they remember as being a part of that time period of their own lives. Just like the other long running project I'm working on, it really resonates with them, and they can reflect back in that moment in time and they're like, Oh yeah, that's when that show was on, it was my comfort show to watch.



In her new world she has challenges from all directions, forcing her to take a stand personally and professionally. Will Chee cruise to the border to help her out? Youll have to watch and see.

Navajo Detective Joe Leaphorn, played by actor Zahn McClarnon, Hunkpapa and Sihasapa Lakota, works closely with Sgt. Bernadette Manuelito, played by Jessica Matten, Red River Metis-Cree, in Season 2 of the hit series, "Dark Winds." The new season opens July 30, 2023, on AMC. (Photo courtesy of AMC)

Its just been announced that Dark Winds will return for a fourth season. Beyond that, Matten is busy with films.



Right now, I'm still in the midst of shooting a feature film for Paramount Studios called Avatar: The Last Airbender. That's starring Dave Bautista and Eric Nam. There is a female producer and director team. It's so awesome being in the studio with them for the last year and a half. I know how much that means to a lot of people in the world who've grown up watching that show. I hope that the fans like what I do with the character and that I'm able to serve justice, that they just enjoy the art we help to put out in the world.



Outside of that, I'm still producing and running my Indigenous Film Academy and we're producing short films for them right now on the rez. AMC has generously helped to partner up with us on that and help us with some of the financing. AMC is an entire network full of down to earth, hardworking, amazing people. I just feel really fortunate that this is the studio that we're working with and that we get to collaborate with.



What kind of short films interest Matten?



In short films right now, we're talking about the trials and triumphs that happen on the rez, but with humor. I produced a documentary two years ago that premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival called Boil Alert, that was spotlighting and highlighting all the Indigenous reservations across Canada and the states that are on boil alert for the lack of clean drinking water and really getting insight and delving into what those communities are dealing with on a regular basis. It's third world conditions in our backyard. All due respect to people that feel the need to go overseas to aid there, but we have our own backyard to fix as I've been saying for decades. So being able to produce content that sheds more of a spotlight on that, I hope increases more awareness and compassion and support for the communities.



Also, what it does is it acts as a sense of purpose, an employment opportunity for people coming off the reserve who may not in fact have those opportunities elsewhere. My biggest joy in life is to be able to help push them forward in that regard.

Jessica Matten on the runway. (Tira Howard)

Mattens striking good looks and height  shes 510  have led her to become a fashion icon. She graces the cover of Cowboys & Indians magazine this month and has walked the runway for several designers at the SWAIA Fashion shows.



I actually would rather not, she says laughing. I like the acting and the producing, but what I do love is the people behind the fashion. I love the creators, the designers. And for that alone, it's been a complete honor to be a part of it. I still, to this day, get really nervous walking the catwalk, so I would rather not for that reason alone, but I appreciate it. Hey, I'm five foot 10. I get it. They're like, Hey, tall girl, come here. Put on the clothes, walk down that runway.



If it gives me the opportunity to continue to collaborate with the Indigenous community at large, at the end of the day, I'm all down for it. For the Dark Winds cover shoot for Cowboys & Indians, I actually helped to produce and style that entire shoot. I'm the one that brought all the designers in to make sure that they got features as well. Im just grateful to be a part of the fashion world in that respect.



My science degree is actually in clothing textile science. Before my acting days, I worked at a UK Magazine and my dream was to work in high fashion. I have deep gratitude and deep respect and having studied a lot of art history courses in architecture, even sound theory, I completely understand how a lot of designers draw inspiration and do a lot of incredible research of certain time periods and eras and how they mesh and now they blend that into the fabrics alone. Even the material that they choose can also reflect something that they're paying respect to.



My profound respect for fashion is almost completely separate from me not wanting to walk on a runway. I'm grateful for this life for sure. I'm grateful to do Dark Winds four months out of the year. We shoot the film out of Santa Fe. I like to travel quite a bit, quite the gypsy, or as they say, following wherever the buffalo roams. It's just a lifestyle choice. I'm excited to go back to Santa Fe, and also explore New York, my new home. There's a big Indigenous population in New York. There's some great museums and a lot of things going on, there's this really cool built-in community.



The Dark Winds Season 3 premier airs on AMC and AMC+ on Sunday, March 9, with new episodes airing weekly on Sundays.

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COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL)  A job and health fair along with a business showcase by Unity with Pam is being held at Columbus State Universitys Cunningham Center on March 6 at 4 p.m.

The job fair will feature employers hiring on the spot, such as:

Columbus Consolidated Government

Max Works

Beam Cable

Columbus Technical College

Work Source Georgia

Primerica (Cynthia Broom, District Leader)

Jefferson & Jefferson Express Mobile Courier Services

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Radiant Real Estate Services, LLC

Homewood Suites

Regions Bank

APCU (Atlanta Postal Credit Union)

Steelcon

The health fair will offer free health screenings, diabetes education, weight loss solutions and personalized wellness resources.

Career and business services will be available, such as employment agencies, legal and financial experts, insurance providers, and housing specialists.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
John Oliver has weighed in on the "disastrous" Oval Office showdown between President Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week, dishing out some harsh words in defense of the Ukrainian President.

In Sunday's episode of "Last Week Tonight," the comedian skewered Trump and Vice President JD Vance for verbally pouncing on Zelenskyy during the tense televised meeting in which Vance suggested that "Ukraine should try diplomacy," Oliver rehashed, breaking down how things escalated from there.

In a clip of the meeting, Trump says to Zelenskyy, "You don't have the cards right now."

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Zelenskyy responds, "I'm not playing cards. I'm very serious, Mr. President. I'm very serious."

The argument led to Trump stating, "You're gambling with the lives of millions of people. You're gambling with World War III. What you're doing is very disrespectful to the country  this country  that has backed you far more than a lot of people said they should have."

Vance interrupts Trump, asking Zelenskyy, "Have you said thank you once during this entire meeting?"

"This is gonna be great television, I will say that," Trump concluded.

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A subsequent press conference with the leaders was canceled, and Zelenskyy was told to leave the White House.

"Is watching the president s**t on a weaker ally for not wanting to be conquered while his goon VP tries to see if he can wrap his lips around his boss' a******e from a neighboring couch 'good television'?" Oliver pondered. "Id argue its more 'hit your TV with a hammer until the pain stops' television, but reasonable people can disagree."

Oliver continued, The whole spectacle was awful. The Ukrainian ambassador to the U.S. had her head in her hands, Marco Rubio seemed to be actively trying to sink inside the couch and, for what its worth, Zelenskyy has thanked Americans and the U.S. 33 times at the very least, which feels like enough. He shouldnt be constantly urged to say thank you  hes a president in the middle of a war, not a toddler opening a present from Meemaw.

Following the off-the-rails meeting, Trump gave an interview to Fox News, stating, "He's gotta say 'I want to make peace.' He doesn't have to stand there and say 'Putin this  Putin that.' All negative things."

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To this, Oliver riffed, "What's Putin ever done to Zelenskyy other than kill tens of thousands of his people and cause untold damage to his country? Can't he find anything good to say about him? Like how his cheeks are puffy like a couple of Hawaiian rolls . . . It's not that hard to be nice!"

Despite Vance and Trump's demeanors during the meeting, Zelenskyy took to social media on Saturday to emphasize his gratitude.

We are very grateful to the United States for all the support," Zelenskyy wrote on X. "Im thankful to President Trump, Congress for their bipartisan support and the American people. Ukrainians have always appreciated this support, especially during these three years of full-scale invasion.

Since Friday's Oval Office showdown, European leaders have reiterated their support for Ukraine and denounced the "deeply troubling and sobering" interaction between Trump and Zelenskyy, NPR reported. A U.K. politician stated on social media that "respectable diplomacy" is crucial for brokering peace and that a "divided West only benefits Russia."

"Last Week Tonight with John Oliver" airs on Sundays at 11 p.m. ET on Max.
Just like the rest of the world, John Oliver had a few words after watching Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyys fiery meeting with President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance.

Well, that depends, is watching the president st on a weaker ally for not wanting to be conquered while his goon MVP tries to see if he can wrap around his bosss ass all from a neighboring couch through television, Oliver said after Trump predicted his meeting with Zelenskyy would be great television. I thought he was more, hit your TV with a hammer till the pain stops television.

John Oliver Goes Nuclear Over Trump Administration Handling Zelensky Peace Deal and Warns About FBI Director Who Sees Leftists as their Enemy



Follow @FinancialWise2 pic.twitter.com/dFOeou1STG  Financial Wise (@FinancialWise2) March 3, 2025

Oliver continued, pointing out how visually embarrassed everyone at the meeting appeared to be. Check out the video above.

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Reasonable people can agree, the whole spectacle was awful. The Ukrainian ambassador of the U.S. had her head in her hands, Oliver said. Marco Rubio seemed to be actively trying to sink inside the couch, and for what its worth, Zelenskyy has thanked Americans and the U.S. 33 times at the very least, which feels like enough. He shouldnt be constantly urged to say thank you  hes a president in the middle of a war, not a toddler opening a present from meemaw.

The turbulent Friday meeting included Trump taking issue with Zelenskyy having only negative things to say about Russian president Vladimir Putin.

Yeah, whats Putin done to Zelenskyy, other than kill tens of thousands of people and cause untold damage to his country? Oliver said. Cant he find anything good to say about him? Like, how his cheeks are puffy like a couple of Hawaiian rolls, or, how his horse definitely didnt kill itself after this photoshoot.

The post John Oliver Defends Zelenskyy After Fiery Trump-Vance Meeting, Says 33 Thank-Yous Feels Like Enough | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
John Oliver has weighed in on Donald Trump and Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelenskyys clash at the White House on Friday, saying the whole spectacle was awful.

During the televised meeting, Trump called Zelenskyy disrespectful for not wanting to make a peace deal with Russia on his terms. Vice President JD Vance also urged Zelenskyy to thank Trump for his efforts, asking him: Have you said thank you once this entire meeting?

More from Variety

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Despite the conversation going off the rails, Trump  in a nod to his reality TV roots acknowledged, This is gonna be great television, I will say that.

But, according to Oliver, that depends.

Is watching the president shit on a weaker ally for not wanting to be conquered while his goon VP tries to see if he can wrap his lips around his boss arsehole from a neighboring cough good television? the host said on a new episode of Last Week Tonight on Sunday. Id argue its more hit your TV with a hammer until the pains tops television, but reasonable people can disagree.

Oliver continued, The whole spectacle was awful. The Ukrainian ambassador to the U.S. had her head in her hands, Marco Rubio seemed to be actively trying to sink inside the couch and, for what its worth, Zelenskyy has thanked Americans and the U.S. 33 times at the very least, which feels like enough. He shouldnt be constantly urged to say thank you, hes a president in the middle of a war, not a toddler opening a present from Meemaw.

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Zelenskyy did take to social media after the meeting to reiterate his gratitude, writing on X on Saturday: We are very grateful to the United States for all the support. Im thankful to President Trump, Congress for their bipartisan support and American people. Ukrainians have always appreciated this support, especially during these three years of full-scale invasion.

In an interview following the conversation, Trump said Zelenskyy has to say I want to make peace, adding: He doesnt have to stand there and say about Putin this, Putin that. All negative things.

To that, Oliver said: Yeah, whats Putin ever done to Zelenskyy other than kill tens and thousands of people and cause untold damage to his country? Cant he find anything good to say about him? Like how his cheeks are puffy like a couple of Hawaiian rolls, or like this horse definitely didnt kill itself after this photoshoot. Its not that hard to be nice.

Last Week Tonight is available to stream on Max.

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JC Salvation Army says newfound permanent housing for 4 is a silver lining in gas leak challenges at shelter

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The Salvation Army of Johnson City announced Monday that shelter repairs are estimated to be completed Friday.

Due to a gas leak on Feb. 21, shelter guests were relocated to the Salvation Armys administrative building and a local hotel.

Despite these difficulties, The Salvation Army successfully helped [four] shelter guests obtain permanent housing last week, the Salvation Army said in a news release. However, gas pipes at the shelter building need to be replaced, and repairs are estimated to be completed by Friday, March 7.

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8-year-old walks out of Johnson City Elem. School, found by stranger

The Salvation Army asks for continued support for the community:

Financial Contributions Donations are needed to help cover the costs of hotel rooms, staffing and meals. Contributions can be made online at SalvationArmyJohnsonCity.org or by mail at PO Box 1715, Johnson City, Tennessee 37605.

Volunteers Individuals are needed at The Salvation Army facility on West Walnut to assist with White Flag shelter operations, meal service and other essential tasks. Those interested in volunteering are asked to call 423-926-2101.

Meal Donations Meals are needed for shelter guests until the facility is reopened. If you or your organization can provide meals, contact Major Maureen Diffley at 423-926-2101.

Prayer Support The Salvation Army asks for prayers that the gas leak repairs are completed quickly and that the shelter can safely reopen.



Olivia Brokaw, Volunteer Coordinator and Administrative Assistant, said the gas leak has put a monetary strain on the Salvation Army.

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This has caused a significant personnel and financial burden on us as we have moved residents to other locations and it means we dont have access to our full kitchen, she said. So we have been very grateful for community donors, for meals, and we are continuing to need community donors for meals as well as financial contributions because of the staffing arrangements that have needed to be made, the meal arrangements, laundry arrangements, all of these factors contribute to increased costs.

Maj. R.C. Duskin said that it usually costs $80 per day to house an individual at the shelter.

The hotel is costing us $110 a night for each room, Duskin said. And we have eight or nine rooms depending on the folks that we have that will be staying with us, but also having a room for our staff because we need to have staff on site 24 /7.

But with the hotel stays and some of the other costs that we have as a part of the transitions and also the repairs that are going on, theres a whole lot more that were needing to cover with these expenses.

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Joseph Hillman, Salvation Armys Emergency and Veterans Case Manager, said the hotel stays are also a challenge for those who work near the shelter.

The veterans were moved across town and theyre trying to get their life back on rails, Hillman said. And theyve found local nearby places to work that they were able to walk or take a short bus ride to. But now theyre across town having to stay in accommodations over there off of State of Franklin and they have to get to work. So weve tried to do what we can with taxi passes, bus passes, just to be able to get them back over to work, because we dont want them to lose their employment as they build their lives back.

Duskin told News Channel 11 that they were actually able to find permanent housing for four individuals, and that is their goal for everyone staying at the shelter.

And were excited for that for those individuals and just glad that this might have been the push to get them to get that permanent housing and doing a little more of a search, Duskin said But were just thankful that were able to continue to serve those that still are needing assistance with us.

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Hillman said the people staying in the shelter have lost some stability and that its important to provide them with a safe place to stay.

This is a great group of people, Hillman said. Theyve all gone through a lot. Theyre all dedicated. Theyre all invested. Theyre all working very hard to get back to what we all take for granted.

Brokaw, Duskin and Hillman all thank those who have already helped.

For more information or to coordinate assistance, contact The Salvation Army of Johnson City at 423-926-2101. You can also reach them on their Facebook page or website.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Police say Its been almost nine years since 19-year-old Jonah Golden was killed at a Jacksonville house party by a single stray bullet.

The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office brought renewed attention to the case Friday with a post to social media.

Action News Jax Shanila Kabir spoke to Jonahs mother, who says their family still knows very little about what led up to Jonahs final moments even after all this time.

He honestly was the funniest person that Ive ever met, he had the ability to make everyone laugh, said Rebecca Harp.

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Harp said she and her son had never been to the Westside home where the party was held, but his friends had invited him back in April 2016.

JSO officers were sent to the scene after a reported shooting inside the home on Liska Drive following an argument.

Related: 1 teen killed, 1 injured in shooting at Westside house party

A fight broke out and he was trying to get out of the house, when the gun went out and hit him and went through the breezeway, said Harp.

Neighbors at the time said the house party was out of control with dozens of teenagers inside.

There was a bunch of people there and crime scene tape. I kept calling him. He wasnt answering his phone. I saw someone was lying dead on the ground and it was him, said Harp.

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Harp said the last thing her son said to her was that he was going to spend Friday night with his girlfriend. However, his friends later asked him to go to that party instead.

Ill never be the person I was before. Jonah was my best friend. I had him when I was 20 and he died when he was 19. Its hard, you cant get it back.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

However, neighbors had called police several times before the party managed to become deadly.

Action News Jax reported back in 2016, the 911 log showed neighbors down the street called police to shut the party down three different times between 11 PM and 1 AM.

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Almost a decade later, the family is still waiting for answers and an arrest.

I think we were everything to him like he was everything to us.

The Jonah Golden homicide remains an active investigation.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office or leave an anonymous tip with CrimeStoppers.

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Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
Consumer stocks are making a comeback in Hong Kong after the city's initial public offering (IPO) market recovered from a multi-year slump and stocks gained a valuation upgrade induced by DeepSeek's breakthroughs.

Mixue's IPO attracted a record HK$1.8 trillion (US$231 billion) of orders from retail investors before the Chinese fresh drinks chain started trading on Monday. Cosmetics producer Mao Geping gained 153 per cent since December, while jewellery maker Laopu Gold has risen more than 1,000 per cent since its debut in June.

Toymaker Pop Mart has soared 442 per cent over the past 12 months as sales gained momentum in overseas markets, while peer Bloks Group, whose retail portion of IPO was 6,000 times subscribed, has advanced 36 per cent since its first day of trading last month.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

"Retail investors' enthusiasm is rooted in the fact that sizeable consumer companies with solid fundamentals and sector tailwinds have finally emerged after a lull," said Richard Lin, chief consumer analyst at Shanghai-based investment bank SPDB International. "If you're a market leader and your valuation is cheap enough, people are going to clamour for you."

Consumer discretionary stocks within the Hang Seng Composite Index have risen 23 per cent this year, outpacing the 17 per cent gain of the benchmark Hang Seng Index. Part of the run-up was fuelled by improved sentiment, after DeepSeek sparked a bull run in technology stocks and the broader market.

Meanwhile, some analysts said consumer stocks may fail to live up to expectations if Beijing holds back on injecting further economic stimulus in the forthcoming two sessions later this month, said Ivan Su, a senior equity analyst for Morningstar.

"If no major stimulus is introduced, growth for the remainder of 2025 is likely to remain at current levels," he said. While this might initially be viewed negatively by the market, many Chinese consumer stocks - particularly those with strong shareholder distribution policies - still present forcing value."

For now, investors are indeed looking at the brighter side of the story. Mixue's IPO subscription ratio, for one, reflects their confidence in the size of its business, its brand power and its appealing stock valuation despite the cutthroat competition in the bubble-tea sector.
Investigators of the publication Slidstvo.Info found that Ukrainian journalist Viktoriia Roshchyna, who died in 2024, had been brutally tortured in Russian captivity: she had stab wounds on her body, was electrocuted, and the staff of the Russian colony where she was held hid her from inspections.

Source: investigation by Slidstvo.info

Details: Slidstvo.Info journalists, together with Reporters Without Borders and colleagues from Suspilne and Hraty news agencies, found out that the Russians first captured Viktoriia and held her in torture chambers in the occupied territory of Zaporizhzhia Oblast and later transferred her to Taganrog.

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Prosecutors say that Roshchyna was held in prison without probable cause.

Her cellmate said that the journalist was first held in Enerhodar (investigators confirmed this information from another source), then in Melitopol. These are unauthorised places of detention set up by Russians on the temporarily occupied territory of Ukraine (TOT).

Her cellmate also said that Viktoriia had been tortured and that the journalist had had stab wounds on her body when she arrived after being held on the TOT. In addition to the stab wounds, Roshchyna had been electrocuted, and her cellmate said that the current could have been connected to her ears.

Over time, the journalist began to lose weight rapidly, refusing to eat and constantly asking the jailers for help.

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When the detention centre staff noticed that Roshchyna was losing weight, the head of the colony came to her cell and talked to her. She kept insisting that she should be released, exchanged as a prisoner of war or deported.

Her cellmate said that the Russian Human Rights Commissioner inspected their detention. Roshchyna was hidden from the inspection and transferred to another stock in a locked room.

The journalist was last seen on 8 September 2024, when she was taken out of her cell in an unknown direction.

Read Viktoria Roshchyna's writing on Ukrainska Pravda

Background:

Roshchyna left Ukraine for Poland on 25 July 2023 to travel to the occupied territory. She planned to reach the occupied part of Ukraine's east via Russia in three days.

Roshchyna disappeared on 3 August 2023 in the TOT from where she was reporting.

Russia admitted for the first time in May 2024 that they had detained Roshchyna. The Russian Ministry of Defence sent a letter of confirmation to her father, Volodymyr Roshchyn.

On 10 October 2024, Petro Yatsenko, the head of the press service of the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War, said during the 24/7 national joint newscast that Viktoriia Roshchyna had died in Russian custody. Defence Intelligence of Ukraine said that she was to be brought back to Ukraine in the near future.

On 11 October, the Office of the Prosecutor General reported that the criminal proceedings initiated over Roshchyna's disappearance had been reclassified as a war crime combined with premeditated murder.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
The judge presiding over the Karen Read murder case could rule as early as Tuesday if there was misconduct by the defense in their handling of two expert witnesses.

The case is due back in Dedhams Norfolk Superior Court for the continuation of a pre-retrial hearing on Judge Beverly Cannones grave concerns, which was extended on Tuesday, Feb. 25.

Special prosecutor Hank Brennan accused the defense earlier this month of essentially lying about dealings that they had with ARCCA crash reconstruction experts Dr. Daniel Wolfe and Dr. Andrew Rentschler, bringing a hearing on Tuesday, Feb. 18, to an abrupt end.

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In new court filings Monday, Reads defense sought to clarify statements made in documents for the previous hearing, specifically a motion that states the ARCCA crash experts were not hired or paid by the defense.

The statement. was poorly worded and should have reflected, more specifically, that the defense did not hire, retain, or pay ARCCA, LLC, to engage in the reconstruction, analysis, and/or testing that was performed by ARCCA in connection with this case, attorney Elizabeth Little wrote in an affidavit.

In a corresponding filing, Reads defense admits to paying ARCCA experts for their time and expenses after trial. According to the document, the payments included:

Travel expenses and time associated with traveling to Norfolk Superior Court.

Less than 1 hour in calls with the defense to coordinate attendance and discuss the experts background.

Time spent testifying in court and the experts internal preparation for trial.

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Wolfe and Rentschler both testified on behalf of Read in June 2024 and stated that injuries to Reads Boston police officer boyfriend werent consistent with a vehicle strike.

Brennan has alleged that the defense hid communications with ARCCA, as well as a more than $23,000 payment they allegedly made to the engineering consulting firm, initially hired by federal authorities to look into Reads case.

Defense attorney Robert Alessi responded to Brennans claims during last weeks hearing, telling the court that there was nothing shady about their interactions, accusing Brennan of misleading Cannone.

Alessi confirmed that Reads legal team did pay ARCCA after the trial, but Brennan has maintained that the information should have been shared publicly.

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Of course, any attorney, unless they want to risk malpractice, is going to make a communication with that expert, which was perfectly legal, Alessi argued.

Brennan responded, It is the bias, the relationship that is critical, and that was hidden from the court.

Cannone ended last weeks hearing without deciding if the defense would face any consequences, however, she previously suggested that this could have profound effects on the future of the case.

In another filing, an expert for Reads defense is asking a judge to reconsider a request to preserve forensically sound video evidence.

IT forensic analyst Matthew Erickson claims the state may have additional video surveillance footage from January 29, 2022, that is being stored on the Canton Police Departments Video File System.

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Erickson says it is imperative that this additional source of information be preserved and dealt with in a forensically sound manner, as it may serve as another source of information related to the authenticity and integrity of the video surveillance at issue in this case.

Reads defense alleges investigators may have deleted evidence and manipulated videos related to the investigation to frame Read.

Prosecutors also filed a Notice of Discovery, outlining more than a dozen files, emails, and other evidence theyve turned over to Reads defense team for review.

Both sides will be back in court Tuesday for a hearing starting at 9:00 a.m.

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The latest scheduled hearing also comes after Reads attorneys filed a fresh 147-page motion to dismiss the case against their client, on the basis of extraordinary governmental misconduct. In the filing, the defense accuses the Commonwealth of destroying exculpatory evidence, withholding exculpatory evidence, and interfering with the jury.

Prosecutors fired back in a 15-page opposition to Reads motion, arguing that it should be denied because the defenses claims do not raise any substantial issues.

Read is accused of hitting her Boston police officer boyfriend John OKeefe with her Lexus SUV on Jan. 29, 2022, and leaving him to die after a night of drinking.

The defense has sought to portray Read as the victim, saying OKeefe was actually killed inside the Albert family home and then dragged outside and left for dead.

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The retrial of Read has been delayed until April 2025. Cannone declared a mistrial in July 2024 after finding jurors couldnt reach a unanimous verdict on all three charges of second-degree murder, leaving the scene of a crash, and manslaughter.

In an exclusive one-on-one interview on Super Bowl Sunday, Read told Boston 25s Ted Daniel that she has nothing to hide and that shes been framed for murder.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
An Oklahoma County judge on Monday dismissed a separation-of-powers lawsuit filed last month by state Rep. Andy Fugate against Gov. Kevin Stitt that challenged the governors executive order requiring state employees to stop working remotely and return to working in their offices.

Fugate said in the lawsuit, filed Feb. 21, that Stitt did not have the authority to issue such an order because it violated the Oklahoma Constitution, maintaining the Legislature should be the entity that decides if and when state workers should return to the office.

District Judge Brent Dishman, though, ruled Fugate, D-Del City, had no standing to file the lawsuit. The judge noted he could only find one past case in which an individual legislator filed a lawsuit against an Oklahoma governor. Dishman said it would cause chaos if individual legislators routinely took a governor to court whenever there was a disagreement.

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Fugates attorney, Richard Labarthe, said hell appeal Dishmans ruling to the Oklahoma Supreme Court. Fugate had asked Dishman to declare Stitts executive order as exceeding his constitutional or statutory authority, to declare the order void, and to issue temporary and permanent injunctions preventing Stitt from enforcing or implementing the order.

Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Del City, on Feb. 21 announced a lawsuit against Gov. Kevin Stitt over the governor's return to work executive order. A judge on Monday dismissed the lawsuit.

What to know about Gov. Stitt's return-to-office order for Oklahoma state employees

Stitt issued the order on Dec. 18 and made it effective Feb. 1, saying the move is needed to "hold stragglers accountable." The order said forcing state employees to return to traditional work environments was a critical step in accountability and delivering services effectively.

Acting under emergency powers at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Stitt issued an executive order on March 12, 2020, in which he told state agencies to establish and, if necessary, implement a remote work policy that balances the safety and welfare of state employees with the critical services they provide.

Fugate argues that when the COVID-19 emergency ended in 2021, Stitts emergency powers concerning state agencies and where their employees work ended.

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On the other side, Ben Lepak, Stitts general counsel, told Dishman that Fugate has not pointed to any law that the governor has violated and maintained Fugates claim was a non-judiciable political question.

Another one of Fugates attorneys, Alexey Tarasov, said remote work has been the new normal for years and noted the cost of bringing state workers back to the office would have to be funded by the Legislature.

State Health Commissioner Keith Reed said in January it could cost as much as $400,000 for that agency to return all of its workers to the office.

It's not known how many state workers performed their job duties remotely before Stitts executive order in December. But some state agencies dramatically changed how theyve operated in recent years as remote work has become commonplace in the U.S. and around the world.

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In May 2020, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services  the largest state agency  announced plans to close about half of its brick-and-mortar facilities in Oklahoma while not reducing its workforce. At the time, the agency said it would save about $6 million by doing so.

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According to a story reported in December by online news outlet Oklahoma Watch, about 44% of the DHS workforce worked remotely in 2024, while nearly 30% of Oklahoma Office of Management and Enterprise Services employees also did so. Oklahoma Watch also reported that about another 60% of OMES employees had a so-called hybrid work schedule, in which they worked some days at the office and some days remotely.

During a news conference last Wednesday, Stitt laughed off Fugates lawsuit, calling Fugate a typical big, big, spend Democrat and not even mentioning Fugates name.

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I don't think most Oklahomans even know what this guy's name is, Stitt said. They didn't elect him. They didn't vote for him. Oklahomans voted for me. They certainly want the governor to run the state government.

I think most Oklahomans agree with me that people are more productive in the office, and most people work in the office right now.

This story was updated because an earlier version included an inaccuracy.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Judge dismisses suit challenging Oklahoma's return-to-office order
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A Mahoning County jury returned a verdict late Monday afternoon in the murder trial of 40-year-old Andre Bailey.

The jury found Bailey guilty on all counts. He will be sentenced April 14.

Read next: One dead in homicide outside Youngstown event center

Bailey was charged with aggravated murder in the Oct. 17 shooting death of 24-year-old Reynaldo Hernandez.

During the trial, Baileys attorney, Walter Madison, said Bailey did not plan to shoot Hernandez and that Bailey cleaned up evidence of the shooting afterward  including putting Hernandez in a car and dumping him at a cemetery on the Sharon line  because he was engaged in criminal activity while out on bond in another case.

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Somebody just got shot in his house and he doesnt want the police in his house because hes engaging in wrongdoing, Madison said before Visiting Judge W. Wyatt McKay.

Assistant Prosecutor John Juhasz said there is plenty of video evidence from a myriad of cameras Bailey had placed around his Bott Street home that show him with a gun, show him chasing Hernandez through his home, show him pitching in with others to clean up blood and other evidence in his home, and show him picking up a bleeding Hernandez from the driveway, placing him in a car and driving away.

Hernandezs body was found the next morning at the cemetery at Liberty Road and Wardle Avenue.

Jurors were seated Feb. 24 and heard testimony Wednesday and Thursday last week before taking a break Friday.

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Jurors cant get inside someones mind, but they can judge a person by their actions and they can judge Bailey by his actions because it is all on video, Juhasz said.

He said Bailey never called police, and that someone was shot in Baileys home and Hernandez lay in the driveway for over 10 minutes, and no one called an ambulance or came to help him.

Hernandez also suffered a gunshot wound to the back, which would be hard for someone to sustain if they came to the house and pulled a gun on Bailey and the others who were there, Juhasz said.

Hernandez was seen entering the house with a bag but police never found a bag, Juhasz said.

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Madison said prosecutors could not prove Bailey knew Hernandez was going to be shot by others in his house. Two co-defendants had earlier pleaded guilty to tampering and obstruction charges.

To be complicit, he has to do something more than just be there, Madison said.

Madison began his argument by playing jurors a snippet of the Bob Marley song, I Shot The Sheriff, saying the song is a metaphor for the difference between wrongdoing and guilt.

Patty Coller contributed to this report.

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Only 4 percent of Americans back Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, as questions swirl over where Donald Trump stands on the issue.

The poll, conducted by CBS News and YouGov, found that a slim majority (52 percent) backed Ukraine, though a surprising 44 percent said they supported neither side.

It comes after Fridays disastrous meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump and vice president JD Vance in the Oval Office. The sit-down started courteously but descended into open acrimony as both Republicans demanded Zelensky show gratitude.

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The president claimed Zelensky would have no power without him, berated him for gambling with millions of lives and said he could either make a deal or fight it out.

A new poll shows just a handful of Americans are backing Russia in the war with Ukraine. The poll's results were released after an infamous clash in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. (AFP via Getty Images)

However, as CBS noted, the poll was conducted between February 26 and 28, prior to the press conference. The survey sampled 2,311 U.S. weighted to be representative of adults nationwide according to gender, age, race, and education.

According to the poll, 51 percent of Americans approve of Trumps handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, compared to 49 percent who do not approve.

Respondents are largely split on which way Trump has leaned in the conflict with 46 percent saying that Trumps actions and statements have favored Russia, compared to 43 percent who think Trump has treated both sides equally.

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Only 10 percent think Trump has sided with Ukraine.

In a statement shortly after Fridays meeting, the president said that Zelensky was not ready for peace. Writing on Truth Social, Trump said the Ukrainian president had disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office.

Zelensky appeared on Fox News, saying he couldnt change his attitude towards Russia, who started the war in February 2022 by invading Ukraine (Getty Images)

I have determined that President Zelensky is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations, Trump wrote. I dont want advantage, I want PEACE.

He can come back when he is ready for Peace," he added.

Zelensky responded shortly after in his own online post: Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that.

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The CBS poll also found that a majority of Republicans have negative views on Russia, with 32 percent regarding them as unfriendly, and 27 percent consider them an enemy. However, a high percentage of the GOP voters sees Russia in more positively.

The poll found 41 percent of Republicans consider Russia an ally or friendly to the U.S.
State fire officials say dry conditions and high winds have led to 490 wildfires across Georgia in the past week.

A Georgia Forestry Commission spokesperson said those fires burned nearly 6,200 acres, and theres a common thread in nearly all of them: outdoor burning.

Typically what we see are people who are burning debris in their backyard, limbs and leaves and things like that, said forestry spokesperson Wendy Burnett. Maybe they just didnt understand that it was dangerous to do that right now.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

A fire in Covington on Saturday started as a car fire at a tire shop, but it quickly became a grass fire. A large fire in Twiggs County started from sparks flying from the wheels of a train.

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On Saturday, all of Georgia was under a red flag warning, meaning it was especially dangerous to do any outdoor burning. Wind gusts around the state were up to 25 miles an hour or more.

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Burnett said firefighters have been aggressive in putting out the fires, trying to keep burned acreage small and now people need to do their part.

Just dont burn outdoors, she said. Save it for another day. Those leaves and limbs will be there in a wee or a month, whenever it becomes safe to burn them up.

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A cold front will bring rain to the state late Tuesday and into Wednesday, which will help matters. But Burnett said she expects dry conditions and the wildfire danger to last through March.

We just ask people to be vigilant and really remember the things Smoky the Bear taught you, she said.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  A juvenile was recently taken into custody after a vehicle was stolen last month from a parking lot in Horizon City, according to the Horizon City Police Department.

Horizon Police say on Monday, Feb. 17, officers responded to a report of a stolen Hyundai Sonata from a parking lot in Horizon. Later that day, the stolen vehicle was found abandoned by officers.

Police then identified a juvenile they say was responsible for the theft. The juvenile was taken into custody and was referred to the El Paso County Juvenile Probation Department on Monday, March 3.

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The juvenile is facing a charge of felony theft of a vehicle.

Over the past year, theft incidents involving Hyundai Sonatas have significantly increased due to vulnerabilities in the vehicles on-board electronics and ignition cylinder mechanisms, Horizon Police said.

The Horizon City Police Department urges owners of affected Hyundai vehicles to check with their local Hyundai service center to ensure their vehicle is equipped with the latest theft prevention software or to receive a steering wheel lock as part of a national recall.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Kansas had gone 12 years without a tornado fatality when an EF-3 twister that witnesses said looked "like an umbilical card" touched down last April in Westmoreland, killing a woman while destroying her home.

That tragedy illustrates the dangers tornadoes pose, said Chad Omitt, warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service office in Topeka.

"I think it's important for people to not get complacent and feel the risk tornadoes pose has gone down," he told The Capital-Journal.

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The weather service this week is encouraging residents to prepare for tornadoes and other severe storms as it observes the state's annual "Severe Weather Awareness Week."

The National Weather this week is observing "Severe Weather Awareness Week" while highlighting the dangers posed by storms such as the tornado that touched down last April at Westmoreland, about 60 miles northwest of Topeka, and did this damage to the home of Barry and Beverly Torburen.

Storm spotter class to be offered Wednesday in Topeka

Kansans are encouraged to practice their plans for severe weather response when a statewide tornado drill is held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Omitt said.

The weather service will then offer its Severe Storm Safety and Information Show, a storm spotter class, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday at Washburn Tech, 5724 S.W. Huntoon.

"A National Weather Service meteorologist will teach thunderstorm development and structure, thunderstorm safety, and what, when, and how to report information," says the website of the weather service's Topeka office.

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The weather service's Topeka office plans to offer 21 such classes in March and April at various sites in the counties it serves in north-central, northeast and east-central Kansas.

A virtual version of the class will be offered online from 7 to 8:30 p.m. March 17. To register, go to https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4811465527032641113.

What's the difference between a watch and a warning?

Forecasters suggest Kansans also prepare for the storm season by learning what cities and counties are in the area where they live, so they will realize severe weather is coming near when storm watches or warnings are issued for those cities and counties.

A watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a weather hazard, such as a tornado or severe thunderstorm.

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The weather service encourages people in areas covered by a weather watch to listen for more information, and think about what to do if severe weather strikes.

A warning is issued when a weather hazard such as a tornado or severe thunderstorm is imminent or has been reported.

The weather service urges people in warned areas to take action to protect their lives and property.

March 13 storm last year brought tornado to Wabaunsee County

To those who might consider this a bit early in the year to talk about tornadoes, Omitt noted that a twister damaged five barns on March 13 of last year in Wabaunsee County.

That same day, a tornado touched touched down near Rossville in northwest Shawnee County, damaging at least one structure.

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Kansas saw 76 tornadoes last year, which was 15 more than the average of 61 it records in a calendar year, the weather service said. Four of last year's tornadoes took place in Shawnee County.

Last year's Westmoreland tornado killed one person and injured four others

The state's strongest tornado last year measured EF-3 on the Enhanced Fujita scale used to measure tornado intensity.

It spent slightly more than two miles on the ground after touching down April 30 in the area of Westmoreland, which is located in Pottawatomie County about 55 miles northwest of Topeka.

That tornado killed 58-year-old Anna Miller while destroying her home.

It also injured four other people, destroyed 22 homes and left 13 other homes damaged but livable.

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Miller was the state's first tornado fatality since Richard D. Slade, 53, was killed Feb. 28, 2012, by a EF-2 tornado that struck his home at Harveyville in Wabaunsee County.

Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas observes Severe Weather Awareness Week; people asked to prepare
KANSAS CITY, Mo,  Monday, March 3, marks the start of National Severe Weather Preparedness Week.

Throughout the week, the National Weather Service, Missouri State Emergency Management Agency and the Kansas Division of Emergency Management will highlight important safety information on social media platforms.

String of break-ins overnight in KCs Waldo, Brookside neighborhoods

Each day of the week, theyll focus on the following safety messages:

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Monday, March 3  Having a plan

Tuesday, March 4  Flooding Safety

Wednesday, March 5  Tornado Safety

Thursday, March 6  Hail/Wind Safety

Friday, March 7  Lightning Safety

Missouri will hold a statewide tornado drill on Wednesday, March 5, at 11 a.m. NOAA weather radios set to receive the Routine Weekly Tests (RWTs) will alert listeners that the drill has begun. Outdoor warning sirens will also sound across participating Missouri communities.

Kansas will also hold a state-wide tornado drill at the same time. Johnson County Emergency Management officials say a live tornado warning will not be broadcast on the NOAA Weather Radio. Still, residents are encouraged to take this time to practice safety plans.

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During severe-weather preparedness week, people are encouraged to discuss severe-weather shelter plans with family members and co-workers and assemble an emergency kit.

You want to think about the kit that you might need for severe weather in your tornado safe place. That might include flashlights, any weather radios, maybe extra batteries, maybe an extra pair of shoes or a helmet to keep you and your family safe, especially the kids, said FOX4 Meteorologist Jacob Lanier.

Having a plan in place before severe weather strikes is key.

Making sure that the perishables are stocked up. You see a lot of people who rush out and wait until the last minute thinking that its not going to hit, and sometimes it does, said Kansas resident Rich Gold.

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The purpose of the tornado drill on March 5 is to test everyones readiness for life-threatening severe weather events such as tornadoes, flash floods, and damaging winds.

Flooding is actually the most deadly of severe weather risks in the United States. Sometimes, people might think its tornadoes or severe thunderstorms, but flooding is the main risk of death and injury when it comes to storms. So if youre in a flood zone, make sure that youre aware of that and that you can keep tabs on any rivers or creeks that might rise rapidly, Lanier explained.

Multiple arrested in connection to Chillicothe shooting that left 18-year-old injured

Emergency managers also encourage people to set up weather and emergency alerts this week.

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Johnson County will test its emergency alert system, NotifyJoCo, on Tuesday, March 4, at 10 am. Johnson County residents can register and review their accounts here.

Families, businesses, and schools are all encouraged to participate this week.

Additional information about Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Kansas and Missouri is on the NWS website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Kansas Democratic U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, second from left, said the suggestion from billionaire Elon Musk, a budget adviser to President Donald Trump, to cancel Verizon's $2.4 billion, 15-year contract with FAA and hand that work to his own company Starlink created a conflict of interest. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA  U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas said President Donald Trumps administration shouldnt cancel a $2.4 billion contract with Verizon and transfer work on the Federal Aviation Administrations traffic control system to presidential adviser Elon Musks own company.

Davids, the 3rd District Democrat who serves on the aviation subcommittee of the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said the potential deal with Musk raised conflict-of-interest issues.

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Starlink is part of Musks SpaceX satellite and rocket company  a business rival of Verizon. Musk also was hired by Trump to lead an effort to reduce federal government spending, including at the FAA.

Elon Musks reported interference in a competitively awarded FAA contract is deeply concerning and raises serious questions about conflicts of interest, Davids said. Aviation safety  not private gain  must be the priority in our air traffic control system.

Verizon was issued a 15-year contract in 2023 to integrate fiber-optic cables into the network allowing FAA facilities to communicate. The current federal air traffic control system is the responsibility of L3Harris, not Verizon, but Musk has repeatedly blamed Verizon for technology shortcomings.

The administration must ensure federal contracts are awarded through a fair and transparent process, not at the whim of a billionaire with political ties to those in power, Davids said.

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In the past week, The New York Times, CNN and other news outlets reported Musk was interested in deploying his own company, Starlink, to operate the federal air traffic control system. The Trump administration has allowed Starlink equipment to be tested at at least two airports.

The issue of aviation safety was brought into focus for the Kansas congressional delegation Jan. 29 when American Airlines Flight 5342 originating from Eisenhower National Airport in Wichita collided mid-air with a U.S. Army helicopter while over the Potomac River in Washington, D.C.

All 67 people aboard the aircraft, including Kansans, were killed in the first major U.S. commercial passenger flight crash in more than 15 years.

In aftermath of the accident, members of the Kansas congressional delegation shared empathy for victims and their families and vowed to make certain the crash was thoroughly investigated. Five of the six members of the delegation took part in a moment of silence on the U.S. House chamber.

Together, we commit to finding answers, and to working to ensure another tragedy like this doesnt happen again, said U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, a Republican serving the 4th District centered on Wichita.
Australian fresh produce company Costa Group has launched a new berry growing operation in Laos, focusing on blueberry cultivation.

The project began on 1 March with an initial investment supporting 17ha of blueberry crops at Paksong on the Bolaven Plateau.

Costa Group plans to expand the initial investment over the next five years, aiming to reach 200ha of blueberry plantings.

In addition to the initial 17ha, Costa intends to plant an additional 50ha in 2026 and anticipates reaching 200ha by 2028.

Costa Group CEO Marc Werner said: This is not only an important project for the Costa Group in developing the companys international berry growing operations, but also in establishing what we hope will be a major investment in berry farming in Laos that will promote economic development, provide benefits for the local agricultural sector, and support local communities.

With the investment, the company hopes to establish a commercial and at-scale blueberry farming footprint in Laos.

What makes Laos such an ideal location for Costa to grow blueberries is not only its climate and geographic location, but also the opportunity to export these blueberries to other countries in Asia, added Werner.

Costa Group, which also grows avocados, grapes and tomatoes, has expertise in both blueberry cultivation and the development of proprietary blueberry varieties.

The company's blueberry breeding programme, which has been running for three decades, has played a key role in this achievement, it said.

It claims to have developed blueberry varieties and agronomic practices suitable for diverse climates, including temperate and sub-tropical regions.

The initiative is already creating employment opportunities, with 65 local workers currently employed at the site.

As the project progresses, Costa Group aims to further workforce development, providing training and employment opportunities at various levels, including farm roles, specialist horticultural positions, and supervisory and management roles.

Werner said that when we reach the planned production footprint of 200 ha, our workforce should grow to employing up to 2,000 locals.

Costa Group's blueberry varieties are cultivated in several countries and continents, including Australia, China, Morocco, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and across the Americas.

Costa Group inked a takeover agreement with a consortium led by Paine Schwartz Partners in 2023.

The acquisition, which valued the company at A$1.5bn ($930m), included collaboration with fruit grower Driscolls and Canadas British Columbia Investment Management Corp.
A 69-year-old woman died in a crash Saturday along I-70 in northwest Kansas.

The woman was identified as Jane Nutting of Wakeeney, Kansas Highway Patrol crash logs show.

The incident was reported at 8:47 a.m. along I-70 in Thomas County. A 2011 Ford Ranger and 2015 Ford F-250 were both westbound on I-70.

Both trucks were in the driving lane, with the F-250 behind the Ranger, which was moving into the passing lane. The Ranger attempted to make an illegal U-turn and was struck by the F-250, according to the report.

Both trucks came to rest in the highway median. Nutting died at the scene of the crash. The driver of the F-250, a 51-year-old Colorado man, was taken to a hospital with minor injuries, the KHP said.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  All tenants at the Cloverleaf Apartments off 71 Highway in south Kansas City have been relocated after being given a 48-hour notice to move out last week.

The Kansas City Fire Department said that while attempting to conduct an annual inspection of the complex on Wednesday, Feb. 26, they learned that there was no longer a property management team in place.

Multiple fire violations were found in all of the buildings along with deplorable and unsustainable living conditions.

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KCFD said the city was notified, along with members of Leumas, an agency operating on behalf of HUD, which is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, and a decision was made to shut the complex down with tenants given until Friday at 5 p.m. to move out. Moving trucks were allowed on the property over the weekend.

Family releases statement after boy killed in Platte Co. crime spree

A majority of the tenants at Cloverleaf received rental assistance through HUD. However, HUD stopped sending payments to Cloverleaf on February 1 due to the complexs pitiful condition and the landlords failure to improve the property since acquiring it in 2023.

Last week, FOX4 witnessed water continuing to gush from the ceiling inside some of the buildings at the complex, ultimately flooding the lower levels. FOX4 also saw mold, trash and rodent droppings scattered throughout the property.

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Leumas/HUD had 76 individuals on their list of legal tenants and worked to relocate them to

temporary and in some cases permanent housing, according to KCFD. . Others staying at the property either legally or illegally were provided with resources through the city to relocate with many choosing to relocate on their own.

The Kansas City Police Department did a building-by-building sweep of the property on Monday morning to ensure every unit and every building was empty.

KCFD said a contractor provided by the city has started boarding up each building and all utilities to the property have been shut off. The property is now considered closed and uninhabitable.

The decision to close the property for fire code violations along with health concerns is not a

decision the Kansas City Fire Department took lightly, but one that was made with compassion

and life safety as the driving force, KCFD said in a news release on Monday. The unfortunate and tragic situation the residences found themselves living in was no fault of their own, but that of a negligent property owner.

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FOX4 previously reported that the landlord, NB Affordable, is charged with wire fraud and other federal charges across the country. The LLC out of the New York City area is accused of using money from HUD and diverting it to other businesses.

One man associated with NB Affordable is set to be sentenced in mid-March for a case out of Cincinnati, Ohio that dealt with an apartment complex left in ruinous condition.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  At least two agencies in Kentucky have announced changes to their social media practices to better align with regulations set out by the Trump Administration.

Blue Grass Army Depot and Kentucky National Guard have shared statements stating they are reviewing and adjusting their social media content to ensure it aligns with Department of Defense (DoD) Instruction 5400.17 and recent executive orders issued by President Donald Trump.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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Both agencies said some posts have been removed or are in the process of being removed while others are being edited to maintain consistency with federal guidance.

As a result, certain posts have been removed or modified to maintain consistency with federal guidance.

We remain committed to transparency, professionalism, and adherence to DoD directives while continuing to engage with our community in a manner that reflects our core values, Blue Grass Army Depot wrote on Facebook.

Both of these statements mirrored a news release put out by the U.S. Army on Thursday.

LATEST KENTUCKY LISTS AND RANKINGS:

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The statements stem from calls for a Digital Content Refresh from a memo sent out on Wednesday. The memo called for the removal of DEI content from their websites and social media accounts.

By March 5, 2025, Components must take all practicable steps, consistent with records

management requirements, to remove all DoD news and feature articles, photos, and videos that

promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). All articles, photos, and videos removed from

DoD websites and social media platforms must be archived and retained in accordance with

applicable records management policies. Sean Parnell, chief Pentagon spokesperson

The memo described DEI content as information that promotes programs, concepts, or materials about critical race theory, gender ideology, and preferential treatment or quotas based on sex, race, or ethnicity.

The memo also included content that promotes cultural awareness months, as outlined by United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseths policy, Identity Months Dead at DoD

Going forward, DoD Components and Military Departments will not use official resources, to include man-hours, to host celebrations or events related to cultural awareness months, including National African American/Black History Month, Womens History Month, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Pride Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and National American Indian Heritage Month. Service members and civilians remain permitted to attend these events in an unofficial capacity outside of duty hours. United States Department of Defense

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
Kept in the Dark is an in-depth investigation into more than 300 K-12 school cyberattacks over the last five years, revealing the forces that leave students, families and district staff unaware that their sensitive data was exposed. Use the search feature below to learn how cybercrimes  and subsequent data breaches  have played out in your own community. Heres what we uncovered about a massive ransomware attack on the Providence, Rhode Island school district.

After the Providence, Rhode Island, school district fell victim to a September 2024 cyberattack by the Medusa ransomware gang, school officials said an ongoing investigation found no evidence that any personal information for students has been impacted.

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An investigation by The 74, including a review of stolen files captured in the 217-gigabyte leak, indicates otherwise. Sexual misconduct allegations involving both students and teachers, childrens special education records and their vaccine histories were posted online after Providence Public Schools did not pay the cybercriminals $1 million ransom demand.

The districts failure to acknowledge that students records had been exposed  even after being informed otherwise by The 74  means that parents and students were likely unaware that their private affairs had entered the public domain.

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In October 2024, Providence schools notified 12,000 current and former employees that their personal information, such as their names, addresses and Social Security numbers, had been compromised. But the letter never makes mention of students sensitive records.

In response to The 74s findings in mid-October 2024, a district spokesperson didnt acknowledge that students sensitive information was compromised. He said the district has been able to confirm that some [of its] files were accessed by an unauthorized, third party, and that security consultants are going through a comprehensive review to determine whether the leaked files contain personal information for individuals beyond current and former staff members.

Meanwhile, in an unsolicited phone call to The 74, a state education department spokesperson appeared to contradict that, saying no one had actually gone in to see the files.

Photo illustration of Medusas blog counting down to how much time the Providence Public School District has to meet its $1 million ransom demand. (Eamonn Fitzmaurice/The 74).

Included in the leak is the 2024-25 Individualized Education Program for a 4-year-old boy who pre-K educators observed had significant difficulty sustaining attention to task and who wandered around the classroom setting without purpose. Another special education plan notes a 3-year-old boy randomly roamed the room humming the tune to Wheels on the Bus, pushed chairs and threw objects.

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A single spreadsheet lists the names of some 20,000 students and their demographic information, including disability status, home addresses, contact information and parents names. Another contains information about their race and the languages spoken at home.

A termination list included in the breach notes the names of more than 600 district employees who were let go between 2002 and 2024, including an art teacher who retired in lieu of being fired and a middle school English teacher who resigned per agreement. Another set of documents reveals a fifth-grade teachers request  and denial  for workplace accommodations for obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety and panic attacks that make her less effective as an educator if I am not supported with the accommodations because I can not sleep at night.

A Providence Public School District students vaccine record. The 74 cropped the photo above to remove the students name. (Screenshot)

In one leaked April 2024 email, a senior central office administrator sought a concealed handgun permit from the state attorney general, noting they have a safe at work as well as one at home.

Following an investigation published by The 74 and The Boston Globe in October, the district sent a letter to families acknowledging that students personal information, such as vaccine records and special education details, were exposed in the attack.

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In response to an inquiry from The 74, a district spokesperson said in a November statement that educators remain committed to transparency and the security of personal information.

During these types of incidents, districts typically start with limited information on what occurred and then gain more information over the course of the investigation, the statement continues. As we navigated the initial uncertainty of the situation, PPSD prioritized taking real-time action and communicating with all stakeholders as we gathered more information.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Kieran Culkin won the Oscar for best supporting actor Sunday at the 97th Academy Awards, completing a sweep of the category that followed his dominance in television awards last season.

The award, for portraying the chaotic but endearing Benji in Jesse Eisenbergs A Real Pain," marked his first win and nomination.

Culkin thanked his manager, his mom, Eisenberg and his wife, Jazz Charton  taking the moment to remind his wife that he wants more kids.

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About a year ago, I was on a stage like this, and I very stupidly, publicly, said that I want a third kid from her because she said if I won the award, I would, she would give me the kid," he said, recalling his speech at the Emmys last January. After the show, She goes, Oh, God, I did say that. I guess I owe you a third kid. And I turned to her and I said, Really? I want four.

She said, I will give you four when you win an Oscar, Culkin, who has two kids with Charton, said to a chorus of laughs from the audience. Jazz, love of my life, ye of little faith. No pressure. I love you.

Culkin triumphed over nominees Guy Pearce for The Brutalist, Edward Norton for A Complete Unknown, Yura Borisov for Anora and his fellow Succession alum Jeremy Strong for The Apprentice. The category was one of few with a clear favorite ahead of this year's ceremony, after Culkin picked up the Golden Globe, BAFTA, Independent Spirit Award, SAG Award and a slew of critics awards earlier this month.

Written and directed by Eisenberg, A Real Pain follows cousins  played by Culkin and Eisenberg  on a trip through Poland for a Holocaust tour to honor their late grandmother. Culkins Benji is introduced as unfiltered but quick to connect. Eisenbergs David is his rule-following, guarded foil. Oscillating between serious reflections on Jewish identity, generational trauma and mourning and the inherent comedy of mismatched relatives, Eisenbergs script deftly navigates heavy themes with humor that lands because of Culkins ability to deliver it earnestly.

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Jesse Eisenberg, thank you for this movie. Youre a genius," Culkin said on stage. "I would never say that to your face. Im never saying it again. So soak it up.

It wasn't a sure bet that Culkin's Benji would make it to screens. When production on the final season of Succession ran long, Culkin considered dropping out of the film to spend time with his family. Emma Stone, last year's best actress Oscar winner whose company Fruit Tree produced the project, convinced him to stay on  by reassuring him that they could make it work without him, knowing that wasn't necessarily true.

She let me off the hook completely, Culkin told The Associated Press of his ex-girlfriend. And I think it was the moment I got off the phone that I was like Oh (expletive), Im doing this movie.

Culkins film debut came at age 7 in Home Alone, where he played the soda-slurping younger cousin of his older brother Macaulay Culkins Kevin McCallister. His first major award nomination was a Golden Globe nod for the 2002 film Igby Goes Down. But it was his turn as Roman Roy, on Succession nearly two decades later that brought Culkin widespread fandom and acclaim, including a Golden Globe and Emmy Award for the series' final season.

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Sometimes people will say like, oh, youre a lot like that character. I'm like, I wasn't until I did it, and now I feel like I took something with me," Culkin said of Benji after his win. But I'd like to think that I'm a little more together than that guy. I'd like to think that Ive figured some stuff out."

___

For more coverage of the Oscars, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/academy-awards.
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Kieran Culkin won the best supporting actor Oscar on Sunday for playing a motor-mouthed American tourist in "A Real Pain."

A star of the HBO program "Succession," Culkin was a heavy favorite to win after sweeping BAFTA, Critic's Choice, Golden Globe and SAG awards for the movie, which is about two cousins on a Jewish heritage tour of Poland.

"I have no idea how I got here," Culkin said while accepting his award on stage. "I've been acting all my life. I never felt like this was my trajectory."

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The movie was also nominated for best original screenplay this year, but missed out on picture and director nods.

Culkin, 42, has also won a Golden Globe for playing Roman Roy on four seasons of "Succession." He played alongside his older brother Macaulay in the "Home Alone" movies, and his younger brother Rory is also an actor.

The lifelong New Yorker's other film roles include "Igby Goes Down," "The Cider House Rules," "Scott Pilgrim vs the World," and the "Father of the Bride" franchise, where he plays the son of Steve Martin and Diane Keaton.

Culkin told New York magazine last year he got cold feet about playing Benji in "A Real Pain," until Emma Stone, a producer on the film and his former girlfriend, convinced him to shoot it.

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It was one of the very, very, very rare scripts that I laughed out loud reading, he said.

Culkin's "Succession" co-star Jeremy Strong - they play brothers on the show - was also up for best supporting actor, for playing Roy Cohn in "The Apprentice."

(Writing by Nick Zieminski; Editing by Howard Goller)
Washington just got a new Second Lady, and this one comes with serious legal chops, a history-making title and a husband who knows a thing or two about military life.

Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, is the first Indian American, Asian American and Hindu to hold the role of Second Lady. But lets be real: military spouses are probably wondering what that actually means for them.

So far, shes kept things pretty quiet. But with her legal background, her husbands Marine Corps experience, and her deep connections in Washington, she might just be gearing up for something big.

Why Second Ladies matter to mil fams

Historically, the role of the Second Lady has been what each woman makes of itbut for military spouses, some have made a huge impact.

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Jill Biden co-founded Joining Forces, an initiative to support military families with employment, education, and wellness.

Karen Pence focused on mental health for service members and their families.

Michelle Obama pushed major efforts in military spouse hiring, working with private companies to expand job opportunities.

JD Vances military background and Ushas legal expertise give her a rare advantage in tackling issues that military spouses face daily, including employment, legal advocacy and veterans benefits.

From courtrooms to Washington

Before becoming Second Lady, she built a career as a Yale-educated lawyer, an appellate specialist, and a clerk for Chief Justice John Roberts. She spent years crafting legal arguments that reached the Supreme Court, shaping high-stakes cases with national impact.

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Now, she steps into a role that has taken many different forms over the years, each defined by the person holding it. Some Second Ladies, like Jill Biden and Michelle Obama, went full force with education and military family advocacy. Others, like Karen Pence, focused on mental health and art therapy. And then there were the quieter players, like Marilyn Quayle, who worked behind the scenes on policy.

Where will Usha land? Well, if history tells us anything, it might be somewhere between military life and the legal world.

A milspouse by marriage is still a milspouse

JD Vance served in the Marine Corps, and while Usha didnt live the typical military spouse experience (they met in law school long after his service), shes seen firsthand how military life shapes careers, families, and financial stability.

That connection alone makes her one to watch. Will she take on military spouse employment issues? Advocate for legal support for military families? Push for better legal protections for veterans navigating post-service life?

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With her background, she could be the perfect person to tackle the legal challenges military families face, or she could take a totally different route toward education, civic engagement, or judicial advocacy. So far, shes kept her cards close.

Potential to make an impact

Usha Vance isnt stepping into this role as just another political spouse. Shes a powerhouse in her own right. With a Yale law degree, a clerkship under Chief Justice John Roberts, and years of experience in appellate law, she built a career on precision, strategy, and a deep understanding of constitutional issues. Unlike many of her predecessors, she comes from a world where legal arguments dont just shape policythey decide the future of national debates.

If she turns her focus to military families, she has the expertise to make a real impact. She could push to expand pro bono legal resources, ensuring that service members, veterans, and their families have better access to representation in benefits disputes, housing conflicts, and employment protections. Active-duty service members often face an uphill battle in custody cases, where deployments and frequent relocations create legal complications. With her background, Usha could advocate for judicial protections that prevent courts from penalizing military parents for the demands of their service.

She could also bring a legal framework to military spouse employment issues, where progress has lagged behind policy discussions. Many military spouses struggle to maintain careers because of rigid state licensing laws, employer bias against frequent moves, and hiring systems that fail to recognize the realities of military life. Usha, with her deep understanding of legal systems and personal connection to the military community, could push for stronger protections and federal policy shifts that make employment more accessible for military spouses.

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Her next steps remain unclear, but few Second Ladies have entered the role with this level of legal expertise. If she decides to use it, she could change the conversation on military family rights, judicial fairness, and legal advocacy in a way that lasts long beyond her tenure.

Whats next?

Since stepping into the role, shes already been spotted on diplomatic trips to France and Germany and was appointed to the board of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. But when it comes to domestic initiatives, shes taking her time.

So the big question remains: Will Usha Vance step into a hands-on role, championing military family issues, or will she keep things low-key?

Whatever she chooses, military spouses will be watching, because when the Second Lady has a legal mind and a military connection, theres potential for real impact.
LONDON (AP)  Britain's King Charles III welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday as the monarch faces criticism in Canada over being silent about U.S. President Donald Trumps repeated suggestion that the U.S. annex its northern neighbor.

While royal officials did not provide details about the private talks at the monarchs royal residence Sandringham, the king and Trudeau were expected to discuss Trumps comments that Canada should become the 51st state.

Charles is the head of state in Canada, a member of the Commonwealth group of many former British colonies and territories. Trudeau on Sunday said nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation.

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Britains monarchs must remain politically neutral, but the Canada issue shows how delicate that balancing act can be.

The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty, former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney posted on X.

Trudeau flew to London to join an emergency defense summit on Ukraine over the weekend, where British Prime Minister Keir Starmer outlined plans to end the war in Ukraine and rallied European counterparts to throw their weight behind the country as U.S. backing of Ukraine appeared in jeopardy.

The king's meeting with the Canadian leader came after Charles met Sunday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to show solidarity with Ukraine after Trump lashed out at Zelenskyy in a heated exchange in the Oval Office.

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Starmer told lawmakers on Monday he held talks with Trudeau over the weekend and was "able to assure him of our strong support for Canada.

Meanwhile, Charles has invited Trump to come for a state visit. Starmer delivered that invitation to Trump in Washington last week, noting it was an unprecedented honor since Trump already had been given the royal treatment by Queen Elizabeth II during his first term.

Starmer insisted to lawmakers on Monday that the U.S. and Britain have the closest of relationships, and that it would be "a huge mistake at a time like this to suggest that any weakening of that link is the way forward for security and defense in Europe.
President Donald Trump created a stir last week when he announced a new plan to combat the national debt: Selling aspiring Americans a pathway to citizenship for $5 million.

You have a green card. This is a gold card, Trump said during an Oval Office news conference. Were going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million and thats going to give you green card privileges, plus its going to be a route to citizenship. And wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card.

Billionaire Mark Cuban endorsed Trumps plan as a replacement for the HB-1 visa program. If you aint gonna hire American, pay taxpayers for the right, he wrote on X.

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While Trumps plan has several logistical and legal issues  namely that it would be outside the scope of his powers as president and that it likely lacks sufficient distinction from the already existing EB-5 visa  such immigration policies are not uncommon on a global scale.

Nearly half of all countries have laws in place to allow some form of residency or citizenship by investment. Nearly 60 have active programs, including nations as disparate as Malta, Cambodia, and Dominica. Travel documents obtained through these programs are colloquially referred to as golden visas. In the last decade, the popularity of these visa programs have exploded across the globe.

From our perspective, the demand at the moment is huge, Dominic Jones, the managing director of Greener Pastures New Zealand, which assists people in obtaining the New Zealand Active Investor Plus visa, told Quartz. Its unprecedented and were blown away by the interest.

Though golden visas are popular across the world, particularly for financially successful families and individuals from emerging economies, Americans have outstripped many other countries in pursuit of citizenship or residency by investment in recent years.

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Between 2019 and 2024, Henley & Partners, a firm dedicated to assisting the wealthy obtain golden visas, reported a 1,000% increase in its American client base. Dominic Volek, the firms group head of private clients, told Quartz that more Americans have sought out his firm for assistance obtaining residency or citizenship by investment than the next four countries combined.

At the same time, however, golden visas are often highly controversial in the countries that already have these programs. Many critics argue that the programs amount to selling passports and say theyre frequently used for money laundering.

Heres everything you need to know about golden visas and residency by investment.

What makes a golden visa golden?

There are two reasons why golden visas earned their shiny nickname. The first, and perhaps more obvious reason, is the price tag attached. Depending on the desired country of residence, people seeking visas need to invest in the country through purchasing property, putting money into the economy, or making outright contributions to the government.

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The other reason these visas are golden, however, is their flexibility.

Theres very little physical presence required to maintain the right to reside [in the desired country], Volek told Quartz. You can live there if you want, but you dont have to. Its a good backup plan, depending on your outlook on the geopolitical challenges of your home country.

While limited residency requirements are a perk for those seeking golden visas, theyre also the cause of significant controversy.

Malta, for example, is considered the gold standard of golden visas: Henley & Partners consistently ranks the countrys golden visa program as the best in the world. But the ease of accessing Maltese residency and citizenship after spending extremely limited periods of time inside the country has come under fire from other European Union member states. In 2020, the European Commission opened infringement procedures against Malta and Cyprus for selling EU citizenship.

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The Commission considers that the granting of EU citizenship for pre-determined payments or investments without any genuine link with the Member States concerned, undermines the essence of EU citizenship, it said.

A 2021 joint investigation by the Daphne Caruana Galizia Foundation, The Guardian, Dossier Centre and five independent Maltese media organizations used leaked Henley & Partners documents to reveal that wealthy individuals from countries including China, Russia, and Saudi Arabia planned to spend an average of just 16 days in Malta before obtaining Maltese passports.

In response to the investigation, Henley & Partners issued a statement in 2021 saying it was proud of the service that it has provided to Malta and its people.

We are fully aware of the potential inherent risks in handling client applications for residence and citizenship and have invested significant time and capital in recent years to create a governance structure that is committed to the highest of standards, the statement continued. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the countries involved to investigate and vet applicants.



Why do people pursue residency by investment?

Like all immigrants and expatriates, the people seeking golden visas are motivated by a variety of factors.

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Its rising geopolitical uncertainty, retrenching of globalization, and risk mitigation, Jones explained. In the same way high network individuals mitigate risk in their own investments by having a portfolio, having a second residency or citizenship option is something they are increasingly looking into.

People seeking New Zealands golden visa, he said, are often motivated by a desire to reside in such a famously beautiful and laid back country. But New Zealand is an outlier: In many cases, when people seek golden visas, they have little intention of ever residing full time in the country.

For those from emerging economies, in Africa or southeast Asia, gaining a golden visa is often a strategy to travel with fewer restrictions, Volek said. If their home countrys passport is comparatively weak, a golden visa can ensure that they travel internationally with ease. Malta and Austria are considered a desirable country for those seeking golden visas because, as members of the EU, their visas open up access to travel, work, and study across Europe.

Even for Americans, who have an especially strong passport, the allure of EU residency is still highly desirable. It allows for even more visa-free travel and the right to live, study, and work across Europe.

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Most of the clients are interested in having an insurance policy in place, said Volek. Thats been a big shift over the last few years. Security is no longer just a concern for emerging markets.

Do countries with golden visa programs actually benefit?

While the individuals obtaining golden visas benefit through a long-term sense of security, the governments offering the visas receive something more tangible and immediate: a massive influx of cash.

The exact mechanism for investment varies from country to country. It very much depends on what the country is trying to achieve, said Volek.

In New Zealand, for example, individuals are required to invest between $2.9 million and $5.8 million. Investment options include philanthropy, managed funds, or property development.

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This is a really positive tool for New Zealand, said Jones. We have a low population. We have pretty shallow capital pools. For us to attract both financial and human capital is really, really valuable for our country.

Conversely, in Malta, golden visa recipients make a non-refundable contribution to the Maltese government.

The government realized they have something that is attractive to successful, wealthy people, said Volek. So they set up a program where investors contribute to a Maltese sovereign fund. Theres no financial return to [investors]. [Their] money is gone. But Malta then uses that for projects in the country. They build bridges, they build roads, they have bursary programs for local students.

There is reason to believe, however, that the economic benefits of golden visas programs are overstated. In 2024, Australia scrapped its golden visa program, with government officials arguing that the program was delivering poor economic outcomes.

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It has been obvious for years that this visa is not delivering what our country and economy needs, Australian Minister for Home Affairs Clare ONeil said in a statement last year after the country ended the program.

Over the years, investigations from the government, watchdog groups, and journalists revealed the program was vulnerable to exploitation  especially from wealthy criminals using their investment in Australia as a money-laundering scheme.

The United Kingdom also recently canceled its golden visa program. Following Russias invasion of Ukraine, there was widespread concern that wealthy Russians were abusing the system. In the aftermath of the rollback, members of both Labour, Conservative, and Liberal Democrat parties criticized the program for enabling international criminals.

Golden visas were a shocking loophole for dirty money to make its way into our economy, and for oligarchs to buy their way into this country, Labour Member of Parliament Margaret Hodge said last year, according to the Guardian. Hodge, who chaired a parliamentary anti-corruption committee, continued, we need full transparency on who benefited from it and what went wrong.

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Cove Capital LLC

NEW YORK, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cove Capital LLC (Cove or the Company) and JSC Qazgeology, Kazakhstans national geological exploration company, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of JSC Tau-Ken Samruk National Mining Company, are pleased to announce the official registration of their joint venture, Akbulak REE Ltd., as a Private Company under the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). This milestone marks a significant step in advancing further exploration and development of the Akbulak Rare Earth Project in the Kostanay Region, Kazakhstan.

The Akbulak Rare Earth Project hosts a historical resource of 380,000 tons of rare earth oxides, including neodymium and praseodymium, key elements in permanent (NdFeB) magnets, and yttrium, utilized in electronics, medicine, and materials science applications.

According to the terms of the Joint Venture Agreement, Cove Kaz Capital Group, a Portfolio Company of Cove Capital, will finance the project, with subsequent financing distributed proportionally. Cove Kaz Capital Group will own 75% while Qazgeology will own 25%.

A key achievement accompanying the JV formation is the successful transfer of the exploration license for the Akbulak project from Qazgeology to Akbulak REE Ltd, requiring the approval of Ministry of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan. This important step enables the newly formed entity to commence exploration and project development activities immediately, positioning the Company as a key player in Kazakhstans growing rare earth and critical minerals industry.

Pini Althaus, CEO of Cove Capital, commented:

"The formation of Akbulak REE Ltd. and the license transfer mark a significant advancement in our strategy to develop critical mineral resources in Kazakhstan. This joint venture is a testament to our commitment to partnering with leading local institutions like Qazgeology, to unlock the full potential of Kazakhstan's rare earth and critical minerals deposits, whilst building a fully integrated mine-to-magnet supply chain which will benefit Kazakhstan and contributing to global supply chains."

Nariman Absametov, Acting CEO of Tau-Ken Samruk, added:

"Kazakhstan holds enormous potential in the rare earth sector, and this joint venture is a concrete step toward turning that potential into reality. By formalizing this partnership and transferring the Akbulak license, we are ensuring that exploration efforts move forward efficiently with the right expertise and resources in place. This project is a strong example of how public-private cooperation can drive the development of critical minerals."
Emmanuel Macron has said that France and Britain are proposing a limited month-long ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure.

But Kyiv has raised reservations about any end to the fighting without security guarantees for the country against any further aggression from Vladimir Putin.

Speaking more cautiously, Britain said there were several possible proposals on the table for a possible Ukraine ceasefire. European countries, led by Britain and France, are looking at options for a peace proposal including Ukraine after last week's Oval Office rupture between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

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"There are clearly a number of options on the table," Prime Minister Keir Starmer's spokesman said. "I'm just not getting into a running commentary on the options."

In an interview given on his way to the summit, Mr Macron raised the possibility of a one-month ceasefire, although so far there has been no public endorsement from other allies.

"Such a truce on air, sea and energy infrastructure would allow us to determine whether Russian President Vladimir Putin is acting in good faith when he commits to a truce," French foreign minister Jean-Noel Barrot said on Monday. "And that's when real peace negotiations could start."

European ground troops would only be deployed to Ukraine in a second phase, Mr Macron said in the interview published in Le Figaro.

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Mr Starmer hosted a summit of European leaders in London on Sunday and said European leaders had agreed to draw up a Ukraine peace plan to present to the United States.

Mr Zelensky, asked if he was aware of the plan mentioned by Macron, told reporters in London: "I'm aware of everything."

Keir Starmer hosts European leaders for talks on peace in Ukraine, 2 March 2025 (Getty Images)

Speaking to the BBC after the summit, Sir Keir said: Weve now agreed that the United Kingdom, along with France and possibly one or two others, will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, and then well discuss that plan with the United States.

He added: The UK and France are the most advanced in the thinking on this, and thats why President Macron and I are going to be working on this plan, which well then discuss with the US.

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That is a step in the right direction. This is not an exclusion  the more the better in this. But we need to move to a quicker, more agile way of going forward, and I think that is a coalition of the willing states.

Also attending the meeting was French president, Emmanuel Macron; outgoing German chancellor, Olaf Scholz; Canadian prime minster, Justin Trudeau; Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sanchez; the Italian prime minister, Giorgia Meloni; and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission.

Here are the five biggest other takeaways from the European leaders meeting:

Coalition of the willing

Speaking after the summit, Sir Keir said the UK and other nations across Europe were ready to form a coalition of the willing to defend Ukraine. It marks the strongest show yet of European unity over the conflict, but it remains unclear which nations are fully committed to the plan.

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While Britain and France have expressed strong support, the prime minister added that only one or two others were on board.

Still hope for Trump backup

Turning to the US, Sir Keir reaffirmed his vision of a transatlantic alliance to support Ukraine and secure peace in the country, saying after the summit: We will work with President Trump to ensure a strong, just, and lasting peace that ensures Ukraines future sovereignty and security.

Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump argue in the Oval Office, 28 February 2025 (AFP via Getty Images)

His words followed a clearer call at the summit, where he said Europe must do the heavy lifting, echoing calls from the Trump administration for EU nations to boost its spending on Ukrainian security.

But to support peace in our continent, and to succeed this effort must have strong US backing," he added, setting out on a clear mission to find compromise with Trump who has previously signalled he is not willing to provide any backstop.

More military aid to Ukraine

At the summit, leaders agreed to continue providing Ukraine with substantial military aid, with Sir Keir saying: In the event of peace deal we will keep boosting Ukraines own defensive capabilities to deter any future invasions.

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The prime minister later announced an historic 1.6 billion deal in the UK to help Ukraine achieve peace through strength. It will provide the nation with 5000 air defence missiles, the Ministry of Defence says, whilst also creating 200 jobs in Northern Ireland.

Many nations ready to give troops

The so-called European coalition will intensify planning now, with real urgency, Sir Keir said at the conference. The UK is prepared to back this with boots on the ground, and planes in the air, together with others.

In a statement after the meeting, he added that many of us expressed readiness to contribute to Ukraines security.

French president Emmanuel Macron, UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer and Ukrainian Volodymyr Zelensky, 2 March 2025 (Simon Dawson/No 10 Downing Street)

However, so far the UK and France are alone in their commitment to put troops on the ground in Ukraine. Others, such as Spain, Poland and Germany, have all previously ruled out the possibility  but whether ongoing talks has changed minds remains to be seen.

Ukraine must not see another weak deal

Reiterating the need for a robust deal, Sir Keir pointed to the 2014 Minsk agreements which sought to end the Donbas war. In February 2022, Putin said that the terms negotiated in the discussions no longer existed, blamed Ukraine for their collapse, and launched Russias full scale invasion of the country just days later.

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Perhaps pointing his comments at the US administration, the prime minister said: We must not repeat the mistakes of the past when weak deals allowed President Putin to invade again.

There must be no talks on Ukraine without Ukraine, he also added.
SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU)  Here are the top headlines from this morning.

Fire conditions are still a concern in Siouxland with windy and dry conditions hanging around across the region.

How will the dry winter impact farmers?

Work on the Big Sioux River Rail Bridge is set to get started this week.

Update on Railway Bridge that was damaged during flooding

The inactivation ceremony for the 133rd Test Squadron took place yesterday in Fort Dodge.

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Iowa Air National Guard holds inactivation ceremony for 133rd Test Squadron in Fort Dodge

Folks gathered in Dakota City, Nebraska to raise money to help people who were injured in a car accident last year.

Dakota City residents help mother and son after car crash

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
KNOX COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56)  Knox County schools will be making changes to the school day starting Monday to make up for lost time in the classroom.

Knox County Public Schools (KCPS) posted an announcement on Facebook throughout the weekend that starting Monday morning, the school day will begin 10 minutes earlier with buses running earlier than normal and entrances opening at 7:20 a.m. to greet students for dropoff. The day will also end 10 minutes later.

The school district has reportedly used 10 NTI days, 18 weather or safety days, and three days with a delayed start or early release during the 2025 school year.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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In a Saturday letter to students and families, KCPS leaders said that Spring Break and Memorial Day are tentatively scheduled days off in the school calendar and that the last day of school is set for May 30.

For the full letter and more school information, visit the KCPS website.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
President Donald Trumps confrontational Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signifies a shift in United States foreign policy to one that largely aligns with the Kremlin, according to a spokesman for the Russian government.

Since taking office, Trump appears to be taking a friendlier position toward Russia than his predecessors, potentially changing the geopolitical dynamic that has largely existed since World War II.

Trump has questioned the U.S.s support of Ukraine in the war, pushed blame away from Russia and onto Ukraine and, last week, publicly berated Zelensky during an Oval Office meeting.

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The new administration is rapidly changing all foreign policy configurations, Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the Russian government, said to state television on Sunday. This largely aligns with our vision.

Dmitry Peskov, the press secretary for the Russian Federation, is the latest Kremlin official to issue a positive statement about Trumps friendliness toward Russia (via REUTERS)

During the Oval Office meeting, Trump and Vice President JD Vance angrily accused Zelensky of not thanking the U.S. for its support and claimed Zelensky was gambling with World War III by refusing to make concessions to Putin.

European leaders quickly assembled to affirm their support for Ukraine and denounced Putin.

The U.S. once played the same role as other European countries, but it's unclear what the path forward will be with Trump choosing to cozy up to the Kremlin.

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Peskov said there is still a long way to go to restore relations between Russia and the U.S. but if the political will of the two leaders, President Putin and President Trump, is maintained, this path can be quite quick and successful.

Donald Trump berates Volodymyr Zelensky during a tense Oval Office meeting on brokering peace between Ukraine and Russia (AFP via Getty Images)

Other leaders in the Kremlin have praised Trump for taking a harsher stance against Zelensky and Ukraine. After insinuating that Zelensky was a dictator, the deputy chair of the Russian Security Council said Trump was 200 percent right.

After Trump blamed Ukraine for instigating the war, Sergey Lavrov, the minister of foreign affairs for Russia, acknowledged Trump as the first, and so far, apparently, the only Western leader to recognize what Russia believes is a root cause of the escalated tensions.

This is already a signal that he understands our position," Lavrov said in February.

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Peskovs confirmation that Trump is adopting a position that aligns with the Kremlin means there could be a tangible shift in official policy soon.

As of now, the U.S. still has economic and trade sanctions on Russia as well as individual sanctions on those deemed responsible for the invasion of Ukraine.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said there could be potentially historic economic partnerships that Washington and Moscow could engage in once the war was over after the two nations met in Saudi Arabia last month. Putin has also said that Russia is open to economic partnership, including developing the Arctic and mining rare earth minerals.

A senior Kremlin official told the Washington Post that Moscow was astonished by the tremendous change associated with Trumps recent takeover. They said they welcomed Trumps pragmatic, rather than enemy-like approach.
The Kremlin has criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for his heated Oval Office meeting with US President Donald Trump, saying the Ukrainian president showed a "complete lack of diplomatic skills."

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Russian news agency Interfax that the exchange was "unprecedented," in comments released on Monday.

He said Russian President Vladimir Putin had watched Friday's meeting between the US and Ukrainian presidents, which quickly devolved into a shouting match with Trump accusing Zelensky of being ungrateful for US support to his country.

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The talks, held in front of the press, were cut short and the Ukrainian delegation left the White House without signing a planned minerals deal with the United States.

Russian politicians had already reacted mockingly to the showdown, but this was the first reaction from Putin's office.

Peskov said the talks between Trump and Zelensky had shown how difficult it would be to achieve a peace deal in the conflict. "The regime in Kiev and Zelensky do not want peace. They want the war to continue," Peskov said, echoing statements made by Trump on Friday.

Zelensky emphasized during the meeting that he wanted to end the war started by Russia.
Russia said President Trumps foreign policy largely aligns with its vision.

The new administration is rapidly changing all foreign policy configurations, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said, according to Russian state media. This largely aligns with our vision.

His remarks come just days after Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met to sign a rare earth minerals deal, which would be a step toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

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The meeting, however, ended in a shouting match between Zelensky, Trump and Vice President Vance, shocking the international community after weeks of growing hostility from Trump over Ukraines handling of the war.

Trumps embrace of Russian President Vladimir Putin as he talks of ending the war in Ukraine has raised concerns and essentially sidelined Ukraine in peace talks, prompting Zelensky to push for the White House meeting.

European leaders quickly met with Zelensky over the weekend, working to support the president and his country, and find a new way forward without the U.S.

Peskov said the Trump administrations approach could bring new progress between Washington and Moscow, after years of being iced out and placed under Biden-era sanctions for the war.

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There is a long way to go because a lot of damage has been done to the whole complex of bilateral relations, he said, per The Washington Post. But if the political will of the two leaders, President Putin and President Trump, is maintained, this path can be quite quick and successful.

The meeting between Zelensky, Trump and Vance exploded when the U.S. leaders accused the Ukrainian president of not being grateful for the aid given since the start of the war. In his remarks Sunday, Peskov also slammed the leader and said Zelensky does not want peace.

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For decades, if not more, English speakers the world over referred to Ukraines capital as Kiev, pronouncing it kee-yev.

Few people knew they were using the Russian name for the city. The city is pronounced keeiv in Ukrainian and is transliterated correctly into English as Kyiv.

In fact, until recently, the names of almost all Ukrainian places and people were transliterated according to their Russian versions.

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After gaining independence in 1991, Ukrainians lobbied the international community to adopt native transliterations when speaking and writing about Ukrainian cities.

Their efforts were largely ignored for several decades as Ukraine struggled to shake its reputation as a former part of Russia. The needle began to move slightly in 2014 when Russia invaded Ukraines east and annexed Crimea.

With the outset of the full-scale invasion in 2022, the world seemed to get the message. Most major news outlets, academic publications, and government bodies now refer to Ukrainian place names by their Ukrainian transliterations. There are still some hold-outs, however, most notably among media outlets that often parrot Kremlin narratives.

The Russian spelling and pronunciation of Kyiv throughout the ages was no accident. While the name gets its origin from an empire that predates Russia, a series of policies by the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union that sought to Russify Ukraine and the Ukrainian language distorted its roots.

What does the name Kyiv mean?

Kyiv, located on the Dnipro River, was officially founded in 482 A.D., although archeological evidence suggests there has been a settlement on the site for about 2,000 years.

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Various theories about its founding exist  with the founders being said to be Goths, Huns, and Turks, among others  but the most popular legend credits four royal siblings of an Eastern Slavic tribe with establishing the city in the 5th century.

Kyiv is thus said to be named after the eldest sibling, Kyi, similar to how the mythical Romulus inspired the name Rome.

In the 9th century, Kyiv became the capital and cultural center of Kyivan Rus, a medieval state spanning eastern and northern Europe, from which modern Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus all trace their origins.

During the Golden Age of Kyivan Rus, Kyiv emerged as a political, cultural, and religious center, with landmarks like Saint Sophias Cathedral and the Pechersk Lavra monastery complex reflecting its importance and prosperity.

View from The Bell Tower of Saint-Sophia athedral in Kyiv, Ukraine on May 23, 2024. (Oleh Tymoshenko / The Kyiv Independent)

Moscow, founded at the tail end of Kyivan rule in 1147 A.D., is more than 600 years younger than Kyiv.

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Over the eight centuries that followed the breakup of Kyivan Rus, Kyiv was controlled by the Mongols, the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, the Kingdom of Poland, the Russian Empire, and lastly the Soviet Union before becoming the capital of independent Ukraine.

Both the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union drew their national identity from the legacy of Kyivan Rus. Authors of Russian history and the Russian state, including President Vladimir Putin, have envisioned their control over the city as a prerequisite for reuniting a long-lost empire.

This imperial preoccupation also underpins current Russian narratives; in Putins view, Kyiv is the mother city of a great Slavic kingdom that is destined to be reunified.

Read also: The origins of Slava Ukraini

Why not Kiev?

Under the Russian Empire and Soviet Union, Russian cities, including Saint Petersburg and Moscow, dictated official language policies.

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In Soviet times, Moscow required all 15 member republics of the Soviet Union to adopt Russian as their official language. The result was that over the last century, Westerners came to know Ukrainian cities by their official Russian-language transliterations: Kiev as opposed to Kyiv, Kharkov as opposed to Kharkiv, Lvov as opposed to Lviv, and Odessa as opposed to Odesa.

This lack of international awareness and recognition of the languages and cultures of individual Soviet member states meant Russian became a commonplace blanket term for all things Soviet.

This legacy carried on past the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. Many foreign governments and media outlets continued to refer to Ukrainian cities by their Russian transliterations, bolstered by and contributing to the widespread stereotypes that everyone in Ukraine speaks Russian and the factually incorrect Ukraine is a former part of Russia.

After the 2014 EuroMaidan revolution and Russias annexation of Ukraines Crimea and invasion of Donbas, more institutions in the West began acknowledging Ukraines political and linguistic sovereignty.

People participated in the Euromaidan protests at Independence Square in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Feb. 20, 2014. (Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

By 2019, many diplomatic missions and English-language news outlets had switched to using Ukrainian spellings of Ukrainian proper names out of respect for the country.

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Social media has also played a pivotal role in encouraging foreigners to switch to using Ukrainian names.

Ukraines Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched the #ReformUA campaign in the late 2010s, with hashtags such as #KyivNotKiev, #LvivNotLvov, and #KharkivNotKharkov. The effort also discouraged referring to Ukraine as the Ukraine  which insinuates that it is a region in a larger nation, rather than an individual state in its own right.

Russias full-scale invasion in 2022 brought global attention to Ukraine and its capital city, prompting widespread adoption of Ukrainian spellings  or rather, since Ukrainian uses a Cyrillic alphabet, Latin alphabet transliterations that better reflect the Ukrainian pronunciation of names.

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Rep. Ben Robbins, R-Sylacauga, works on a computer in the Alabama House of Representatives on April 9, 2024 at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery, Alabama. He introduced legislation to create a registry that tracks foreign nationals living in Alabama. (Brian Lyman/Alabama Reflector)

A House committee approved legislation Wednesday that requires the state to maintain a registry of foreign nationals who work in Alabama.

The House Judiciary Committee approved HB 302, sponsored by Rep. Ben Robbins, R-Sylacauga, that would require labor brokers to register with the Alabama Department of Workforce each year, and provide the department with the names of foreign nationals who are working in the state.

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We want to try and capture those individuals who are bringing labor into the state, and getting kickbacks, maybe from an employer, maybe from a staffing agency, Robbins said when he introduced his proposal.

Those who violate the law could face fines between $500 and $5,000  more if the state takes someone to court. Brokers could face criminal investigations and Class C felony charges, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $15,000.

The bill also authorizes the Secretary of States Office to revoke the license of the labor broker or a charitable organization for violating the provisions in the legislation.

HB 302 states that a significant number of immigrants are settling in the state to work in different types of businesses, such as manufacturing plants, or performing seasonal work in agriculture, and that labor brokers provide financial support for them. Transparency is needed, according to the bill, around foreign nationals residing in the state.

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Labor brokers would have to determine the work status of each immigrant they recruit. They would provide the state with details about the businesses they contract with, as well as the workers placed with those businesses, plus info about the people sponsoring the workers.

The bill also imposes measures proponents say will ensure immigrants who receive social service benefits are eligible for them, and allows the state to fine and penalize those who dont follow the rules.

Advocacy groups expressed concerns about how the bill misrepresents immigrants and immigration systems, especially in making the assumption that people without proper work authorization are receiving public benefits, such as Medicaid.

A separate section of the legislation states that immigrants who apply for social services, from food stamps to unemployment benefits, must then be checked against the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program to verify their status and determine eligibility for public assistance.

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Immigrants who apply for public benefits would provide a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) number or Alien Registration Number, along with info about their sponsors under the measure.

Someone stated that undocumented immigrants were using USCIS numbers to sign up for Medicaid, which is completely false, said Allison Hamilton, executive director of the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice, after Wednesdays meeting. There is no such thing as a USCIS number, and undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Medicaid.

The bill could discourage organizations  staffing agencies or charitable groups  from assisting immigrants who have recently settled in the state.

Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa voted against the legislation, saying the bill targets organizations or vulnerable populations.

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Any time people are required to identify themselves in various ways, he said, it sometimes brings a target on them because there are some people who do not want them here.

HB 302 will be passed on to the full House of Representatives for a vote.

The legislation is part of a suite of bills circulating in the Legislature that targets immigrants in the state. A House committee also passed a measure to endow local law enforcement with the authority to enforce the countrys immigration laws earlier this month.

Two weeks ago, the Senate approved legislation that requires local law enforcement to collect DNA and fingerprints for detained immigrants, a bill that prohibits transporting immigrants without status to the state, and a measure barring Alabama from accepting immigrants drivers licenses issued from two states.
LAKE FOREST, Ill.  A Lake Forest College student is speaking out, saying her school isnt doing enough to protect her and others after an alleged attack on campus.

Esmerelda Ramirez, 23, spoke out Sunday about what she claims happened to her over the course of several hours on Wednesday morning. Its unclear how she got away from her alleged attacker, and she said the charges that have since been filed arent good enough.

The blade was against my throat. If I moved, if I breathed a little bit too heavy, my throat wouldve been sliced, she said.

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Ramirez said she was part of a work study session early Wednesday morning when 22-year-old Luca Vulpescu, whom she described as a fellow student and college tutor, attacked her.

PREVIOUS: Lake Forest College student arrested, charged with aggravated battery to female victim on campus, police say

Ramirez claimed she was groped, illegally detained and had a knife held to her throat inside a dorm room.

He works the college. Nice, right? Thats not okay, Ramirez said.

Vulpescu has since been charged with aggravated battery and multiple misdemeanors. He made his first appearance in court on Saturday and was released from custody on several conditions, including no contact with the victim and no travel outside of Illinois. Hes also banned from the Lake Forest College campus.

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Ramirez said she still fears for her safety and for her fellow students, saying the current charges are insufficient.

He should be charged with attempted murder and attempted rape, she said.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

Ramirez and community activists said they plan to file suit against the college, citing negligence on their behalf.

Theyre supposed to report it on their daily crime log that they have. Thats where they report all of their crime on campus to alert students concerning safety. They havent released any information on it, Ramirez said.

Vulpescu is due back in court on Monday, March 24 at 9 a.m. in Waukegan.

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WGN News has reached out to Lake Forest College for comment, but has not yet heard back.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) will release its fourth-quarter financial results, before the opening bell, on Tuesday, March 4.

Analysts expect the Richfield, Minnesota-based company to report quarterly earnings at $2.41 per share, down from $2.72 per share in the year-ago period. Best Buy projects quarterly revenue of $13.7 billion, compared to $14.65 billion a year earlier, according to data from Benzinga Pro.

On Feb. 27, Telsey Advisory Group analyst Joseph Feldman maintained Best Buy with an Outperform and maintained a $110 price target.

With the recent buzz around Best Buy, some investors may be eyeing potential gains from the company's dividends too. As of now, Best Buy offers an annual dividend yield of 4.18%, which is a quarterly dividend amount of 94 cents per share ($3.76 a year).

So, how can investors exploit its dividend yield to pocket a regular $500 monthly?

To earn $500 per month or $6,000 annually from dividends alone, you would need an investment of approximately $143,496 or around 1,596 shares. For a more modest $100 per month or $1,200 per year, you would need $28,681 or around 319 shares.

To calculate: Divide the desired annual income ($6,000 or $1,200) by the dividend ($3.76 in this case). So, $6,000 / $3.76 = 1,596 ($500 per month), and $1,200 / $3.76 = 319 shares ($100 per month).

View more earnings on BBY

Note that dividend yield can change on a rolling basis, as the dividend payment and the stock price both fluctuate over time.

How that works: The dividend yield is computed by dividing the annual dividend payment by the stocks current price.

For example, if a stock pays an annual dividend of $2 and is currently priced at $50, the dividend yield would be 4% ($2/$50). However, if the stock price increases to $60, the dividend yield drops to 3.33% ($2/$60). Conversely, if the stock price falls to $40, the dividend yield rises to 5% ($2/$40).

Similarly, changes in the dividend payment can impact the yield. If a company increases its dividend, the yield will also increase, provided the stock price stays the same. Conversely, if the dividend payment decreases, so will the yield.

BBY Price Action: Shares of Best Buy gained 1.5% to close at $89.91 on Friday.





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This article How To Earn $500 A Month From Best Buy Stock Ahead Of Q4 Earnings originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2025 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
NORFOLK  A company that operates private, off-campus rental properties for Old Dominion University students and Norfolks public housing authority were the citys two biggest evictors in 2024, according to new data and analysis from the Equity Center at the University of Virginia.

Norfolk was one of the top five Virginia cities with the most eviction filings in 2024, even though the amount of filings fell compared to 2023. Eviction filings against Norfolk rental tenants in 2024 declined about 8.1%, from 10,096 to 9,275, compared to the previous year, according to Norfolk court data analyzed by the Equity Center.

Only landlords in Richmond, Henrico County, Newport News and Virginia Beach filed more cases during the past 12 months, according to analysis from Princeton Universitys Eviction Lab.

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Not every eviction filing leads to an eviction decision by a judge. Eviction judgements for 2024 in Norfolk declined about 8%, from 4,995 to 4,571, compared to 2023. And some of the evictions filings are against the same tenants in what are called serial filings.

According to the Equity Center data, the top eviction filers in Norfolk for 2024 include:

Polizos Properties LLC, which does business as ODUrent, with 506 cases filed. 259 filings resulted in eviction judgements and 219 were serial filings.

The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority, with 492 cases filed. 190 filings resulted in eviction judgements and 181 were serial filings.

Arbor Pointe Apartments LLC, with 222 cases filed. 125 filings resulted in eviction judgements and 89 were serial filings.

ODUrent is a real estate and property management company that specializes in off-campus student housing for Old Dominion University students and is not affiliated with the university. The company has never evicted a resident that paid rent on time unless they posed a threat to individuals or property, according to statement from Polizos Properties.

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Additionally, the company said evictions are a last resort and it attempts to avoid them through early intervention programs like multiple notices and supplying information on financial assistance like aid programs, loans and grants.

ODUrent representative Maxine Brown said the companys internal statistics registered 96 evictions in 2024, which is fewer than 6% of all ODUrent tenants. She said the number might be lower than the number of eviction judgements because some tenants may have paid after the judgement.

Michele Claibourn, director of equitable analysis at the Equity Center, agreed that an eviction judgement does not always equal a forced displacement because the landlord and tenant can reach an agreement.

At the same time, people can feel forced to leave without an explicit eviction judgment in response to an eviction filing (or even informally, before an unlawful detainer case is filed), Claibourn wrote in an email.

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As a government agency, rather than a private company, the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authoritys inclusion on the list is notable, said Alex Fella, a housing researcher and professor at Tidewater Community College who recently published an analysis of regional eviction trends.

How is the public housing authority, ostensibly a social good, sharing some of the top spots with a real estate investment firm in terms of evictions in the city? Fella said, referencing other companies with properties in Hampton Roads.

For 2024, Norfolks housing authority also filed significantly more eviction cases than other Hampton Roads housing authorities  almost twice as many as the next highest city. During the same time period, Newport News filed 166 eviction cases, Portsmouth filed 55, Chesapeake filed 67, Hampton filed 47 and Suffolk filed 32, according to the Equity Center data. Virginia Beach does not have public housing. Norfolks housing authority filing number includes filings from Norfolk RHA, NRHA and NRHA Mission College Limited Partnership. Mission College is an apartment property financed in part by the housing authority.

Nathan Simms, NRHA executive director, declined to be interviewed for this article.

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However, Simms told WHRO in January that the agency had suspended evictions of tenants beginning in November in order to make sure paperwork aligned and the agency was making the best attempts to reach households in danger of eviction. He also could not say why the eviction number was so much higher than other cities.

After a Feb. 13 housing authority board meeting, Simms told The Pilot that the process was still suspended.

Other factors complicate a true list of top evictors in any given city, Fella said. For example, he said Arbor Pointe is owned by Seminole Trail Management, a real estate company with apartments across Hampton Roads. So, if you added up the 222 evictions cases filed in 2024 by Arbor Pointe Apartments LLC and the 113 more filed by Seminole-owned Sewells Park Apartments, the company actually filed a total of 335 evictions in Norfolk.

Seminole did not respond to requests for comment.

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High eviction rates have been a longtime issue for Norfolk and other Hampton Roads cities. An Eviction Lab report revealed all Hampton Roads cities saw judges order tenants out of their homes at least three times the average national rate in 2016. According to analysis by Fella, evictions in the region declined in 2020 and 2021 due to protections put in place after the coronavirus pandemic, but rose again in 2022 and 2023 as those protections expired.

Trevor Metcalfe, 757-222-5345, trevor.metcalfe@pilotonline.com
A vehicle crash has all lanes blocked on part of Interstate 285 northbound.

According to a Georgia Department of Transportation travel alert on the 511 Georgia system, all lanes are blocked on I-285 before Glenwood Road, for exit 44.

Emergency responders are on-site working to reopen lanes as fast as they can but in the meantime, drivers are encouraged to find alternate routes and avoid the area.

The specific circumstances are not yet known.

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GDOTs alert system said the lanes are expected to be open around 6 p.m.

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LANSING, Mich. (WLNS )  The current Lansing School District (LSD) Superintendent Ben Shuldiner is now in the top 3 candidates for the nations fifth-largest school district, the Clark County School District, located in Las Vegas, Nevada.

According to 8 News Now in Las Vegas, our sister station at KLAS, the Clark County School District Board of Trustees conducted its first round of interviews last week for the top four candidates. The Trustees voted to advance Jhone Ebert, Jesse Welsh, and Ben Shuldiner.

In a statement sent to 6 News before the candidate pool narrowed, though, Shuldiner said he is not actively searching for a new position.

I was honored to be asked to apply for the position of Clark County School District Superintendent. I am even more honored to be among the incredible set of six proposed slate members for the first round of interviews. My inclusion in this illustrious group is truly a testament to the amazing work all of us in Lansing have done over the last four years. I also want the Lansing community to know that I am very thrilled to live here and spend every day working for the Lansing School District. I am not actively searching for a new position. I am so proud of the work we are doing here and know that there is much more to be done. However, the Clark County School District opportunity, when presented to me, was a ring I felt I had to throw my hat into. I do hope you all understand and that you all know that my love for Lansing and our children is, as always, unwavering. Ben Shuldiner  Lansing School District Superintendent

Shuldiner is expected to be in Las Vegas for a public forum next Monday, March 10, where he and the other candidates will talk with the public. On March 13, the school board is scheduled to make its selection.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A judge denied state prosecutors attempt to dismiss Margaret Rudins wrongful conviction lawsuit against them as the case hinges on her actual innocence, records said.

Last December, Clark County District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus dismissed Rudins criminal case, vacating her murder charge and conviction.

The state did not admit her innocence but agreed she received poor legal representation at trial.

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In 2001, a Clark County jury convicted Rudin, 81  who reporters at the time dubbed The Black Widow  for the murder of her husband Ron Rudin. In 2022, a federal judge vacated her conviction, citing her attorneys failures and possible other suspects. The state and the Clark County District Attorneys Office declined to retry Rudin, leading to last Decembers dismissal.

Last May, Margaret Rudin filed her wrongful conviction lawsuit against the state for the more than 8,000 days she sat in prison. The federal judge who overturned her conviction wrote there was no evidence linking Rudin to the murder weapon, Ron Rudins abandoned car, or the suspected crime scene. He also said Rudins defense attorney, Michael Amador, who has since died, did not do enough to defend her.

After court in December, Rudins attorneys said they were waiting for the state to issue their client a certificate of innocence, however, prosecutors wrote in newly filed court documents that no judge proclaimed Rudin innocent.

State prosecutors added the federal judge vacated her conviction and Holthus later dismissed it because of legal error unrelated to innocence, documents said.

Thirty years after her husbands murder, Margaret Rudin does not know who killed him, her attorneys said, adding a fingerprint could be the key in finding out who did. (KLAS)

Last week, Clark County District Court Judge Joanna Kishner dismissed prosecutors motion to dismiss without prejudice, meaning Rudins civil case will move forward, and she could testify.

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A 2019 Nevada law allows a person in Margaret Rudins situation to receive up to $100,000 per year of incarceration plus reasonable housing costs should a judge agree with her argument. The proceedings would not include a jury, but testimony would be directly relayed to the judge.

While Margaret Rudin did not testify in her defense in 2001, she will testify this time, her attorneys said during a January interview.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
President Donald Trump is seeking to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to engage in peace talks with Russia by pausing military aid to Ukraine.

A White House official said Trump wants Zelenskyy committed to the ending of the war that began when Russia invaded the now war-torn country. The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss the assistance, added that the U.S. was pausing and reviewing its aid to ensure that it is contributing to a solution.

The long, complicated relationship between the leaders has reached a nadir following a disastrous White House meeting where Trump and Vice President JD Vance excoriated Zelenskyy for not being sufficiently thankful for U.S. support for Ukraine.

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Here's the latest:

Democratic congressman calls aid pause another extortion of Zelenskyy

Rep. Dan Goldman called the pausing of U.S. military aid to Ukraine another extortion of Zelenskyy following Trumps impeachment for doing the same five years ago.

The New York Democrat made the comment on CNN on Monday night, shortly after Trump directed a pause to U.S. assistance to Ukraine as he seeks to pressure Zelenskyy to engage in peace talks with Russia.

Goldman served as counsel to House Democrats in the first impeachment inquiry against Trump and was later elected to Congress.

Congressman calls Trump pause on Ukraine aid reckless

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Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Penn., who is co-chairman of the Congressional EU Caucus, said the decision to pause funding for Ukraine is reckless, indefensible, and a direct threat to our national security.

This aid was approved by Congress on a bipartisan basisRepublicans and Democrats alike recognized that standing with Ukraine is standing for democracy and against Putins aggression, Boyle said in a statement. Yet, Trump, who has repeatedly praised Putin and undermined our allies, is now playing political games with critical military assistance.

Trump orders pausing of US military aid for Ukraine

Trump has directed a pause to U.S. assistance to Ukraine after a disastrous Oval Office meeting as the U.S. president seeks to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to engage in peace talks with Russia.

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A White House official said Trump is focused on reaching a peace deal to end the more than three-year war sparked by Russias all-out invasion of Ukraine, and wants Zelenskyy committed to that goal.

The official added that the U.S. was pausing and reviewing its aid to ensure that it is contributing to a solution. The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the assistance.

___

Associated Press reporters Aamer Madhani and Zeke Miller contributed reporting.

Top Senate Democrat blasts Musk and Trump over Social Security

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer seized upon a podcast interview in which Elon Musk called Social Security a Ponzi scheme, accusing both Musk and President Trump of attacking the bedrock of Americas social safety net.

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They know how risky it is politically, Schumer said, but Republicans are in a frenzy to give tax cuts to the very wealthiest billionaires in America.

Schumer was referring to Musks assertion during the Joe Rogan Experience podcast on Friday that Social Security is the biggest Ponzi scheme of all time.

If you look at the future obligations of Social Security, it far exceeds the tax revenue, Musk said.

But Schumer said that no ones getting rich from Social Security benefits.

Senate confirms McMahon to lead Education Department

The Senate voted Monday to confirm former wrestling executive Linda McMahon as the nations education chief, a role that places her atop a department that Trump has vilified and vowed to dismantle.

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McMahon will face the competing tasks of winding down the Education Department while also escalating efforts to achieve Trumps agenda. Already the Republican president has signed sweeping orders to rid Americas schools of diversity programs and accommodations for transgender students while also calling for expanded school choice programs.

At the same time, Trump has promised to shut down the department and said he wants McMahon to put herself out of a job.

The Senate voted to confirm McMahon 51-45.

 Read more about McMahon and the Senates confirmation

Texas teen who inspired revenge porn bill to sit with first lady during Trumps speech to Congress

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Fifteen-year-old Elliston Berry and the first lady met Monday at an event that Sen. Ted Cruz hosted at the Capitol on his bill.

The Texas Republican said Berry inspired him to draft the measure.

Berry and her mother and stepfather, Mark and Anna McAdams, will sit in the first ladys box in the House gallery when President Donald Trump addresses a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night.

One of Ellistons classmates used an app to turn a photo from her Instagram account into an explicit deepfake image that was then blasted around her school.

GOP senators bristle at Trumps tariff plan

Trumps plan to levy tariffs on several of the nations top trading partners has caused concern among some Senate Republicans.

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Im against them and I will do anything I can to stop them, said Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., an avowed libertarian.

Sen. Rick Scott. R-Fla., said hed welcomed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnicks recent meeting with GOP senators about the tariff plan because not everyone agrees within the Republican caucus.

We dont know yet. Its been a long time since weve had tariffs to this extent, said Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., who added that he did not think tariffs during Trumps first term led to significant inflation.

Pentagon plans to bring back Fort Benning. Itll just be named after a different Benning

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Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has, for the second time, ordered a reversal of a U.S. military base name change, saying that Fort Moore in Georgia should revert back to being called Fort Benning.

The move reflects an ongoing effort by the Pentagon to overturn the Biden administrations 2023 decision to remove names that honored Confederate leaders, including for nine Army bases. But the drive to revert to the former names means that officials need to find service members with the same name as the Confederate leaders.

Previously, Fort Benning was named for Brig. Gen. Henry L. Benning , a Confederate officer during the American Civil War who stridently opposed the abolition of slavery.

Now, Hegseth said, Fort Benning will be named in honor of Cpl. Fred G. Benning, a Distinguished Service Cross recipient, who served in France during World War I.

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Senate Democrats slam Trumps tariff announcement

Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said that one of the things voters complained most about in the November election was the high cost of so many goods and products.

And now Donald Trump is making it worse, Schumer said.

Minnesota Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar predicted the cost of fertilizer will go up for farmers in her state.

This is a crazy way to handle our allies, right? she said. Hes literally reaching out to Russia at the same time that hes putting a 25% tariff on Canadian goods.

Economists at Washington conference express alarm about potential impact of Trump tariffs

The economists were attending the National Association for Business Economics conference.

Directionally, we should be expecting higher inflation and slower growth, Blerina Uruci, chief U.S. economist at T. Rowe Price, told reporters.

Recent studies by the Federal Reserve in Washington and the Feds Boston branch have estimated that Trumps tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China would raise consumer prices by about 0.5 to 0.8 percentage points within a year. While modest, such an increase would likely be enough to keep inflation notably higher than the Feds 2% target, and would likely delay any further interest rate cuts by the central bank.

Both Fed studies find that the impact of tariffs on so-called intermediate goods  electronic components, steel parts, computer chips  would play a critical, if less visible, role in pushing up prices.

Co-chair of Congressional Ukraine Caucus says he thinks mineral deal will be signed soon

U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Pennsylvania Republican, made the assessment after speaking with Zelenskyys chief of staff.

We are 100% getting this train back on the tracks, Fitzpatrick wrote on X.

Trump praised the proposed agreement Monday as a great deal, days after he refused to sign it because he said Zelenskyy was disrespectful during a televised Oval Office meeting.

The deal would give the United States an interest in Ukraines rare Earth minerals, which Trump says would compensate the Americans for the billions of dollars in weapons and economic assistance they have provided. Fitzpatrick wrote that the deal would ultimately and naturally lead to security assistance.

Dow drops nearly 650 as worries build about the economy following Trumps latest tariff announcement

A sell-off hit Wall Street after Trump said tariffs he had announced earlier on Canada and Mexico would take effect within hours.

The S&P 500 dropped 1.8% Monday after Trump said there was no room left for negotiations that could lower tariffs set to begin Tuesday on Canadian and Mexican imports. That dashed Wall Streets hopes that Trump would choose a less painful path for global trade, and it followed the latest warning signal on the U.S. economys strength.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 1.5%, and the Nasdaq composite slumped 2.6%. Treasury yields sank after a weaker-than-expected report on manufacturing.

 Read more about stocks and the strength of the U.S. economy

Social Security Administration claims $800 million in savings after cutting jobs and spending

The agency announced last week that it would cut 7,000 people from its workforce of roughly 60,000 people.

The termination of office leases for Social Security sites across the country are detailed on the Department of Government Efficiency website, which maintains a Wall of Receipts. The site states that leases for dozens of Social Security sites across Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Kentucky, North Carolina and other states have been or will be ended.

Lee Dudek, acting commissioner of Social Security, said in a statement: We have spent billions annually doing the same things the same way, leading to bureaucratic stagnation, inefficiency, and a lack of meaningful service improvements. It is time to change just that.

Its unclear how the layoffs will directly impact the benefits of the 72.5 million Social Security beneficiaries, which include retirees and children who receive retirement and disability benefits.

Trump suggests Zelenskyy wont be around very long if he doesnt make deal with Russia

Trump said a deal ending hostilities could be made very fast, but he said Zelenskyy doesnt seem to be interested.

Now, maybe somebody doesnt want to make a deal, Trump said Monday, not naming Zelenskyy but clearly referring to him. And if somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long. That person will not be listened to very long. Because I believe that Russia wants to make a deal.

Zelenskyy says Russian President Vladimir Putin cant be trusted to maintain a ceasefire, and Ukrainians wont lay down their arms without security commitments from the United States and Europe.

Trumps comments join a chorus of his advisers and allies who have suggested Zelenskyy may need to step aside.

Trump plans to discuss fate of rare earth minerals deal in his speech to Congress

Trump is still describing the economic agreement with Ukraine a great deal after refusing to sign it last week when he said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was disrespectful during a contentious Oval Office meeting.

The speech is scheduled for Tuesday.

Trump says 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada will start Tuesday

The move sparks renewed fears of a North American trade war.

Tomorrow  tariffs 25% on Canada and 25% on Mexico. And thatll start, Trump told reporters Monday in the Roosevelt Room. Trump has said the tariffs are to force the two U.S. neighbors to step up their fight against fentanyl trafficking into the U.S.

Trump provided a one-month delay in February as both countries promised concessions. But Trump said Monday that there was No room left for Mexico or for Canada to avoid the steep new tariffs.

Federal workers face midnight deadline in Musks 2nd demand for progress report

The request has become a flashpoint within the government workforce. Musk and Trump have suggested that employees who dont comply could get fired.

Theyve also described the requirement  a list of five things that each person did last week  as an unobjectionable way to increase accountability within a sprawling bureaucracy.

But for many workers, the request has been a source of anxiety and confusion as the new administration tightens its grip on the federal government. Some agencies are still telling their workforces not to respond or to limit what they say in response, just as they did after Musks first request last month.

Judging by instructions that have circulated in recent days, the workforce will face a standing request for lists of accomplishments every Monday.

Read more about the upcoming deadline.

Trump says TSMC is investing $100 billion to expand semiconductor manufacturing in US, mostly Arizona

The planned investments are on top of $65 billion that TSMC has previously announced for a massive campus in Phoenix.

This is a tremendous move by the most powerful company in the world, Trump said.

First lady lobbies for bill to crack down on revenge porn

Melania Trump said its heartbreaking to see teens and especially girls grapple with the fallout after theyre targeted by malicious online content.

The first lady spoke at a roundtable discussion at the Capitol on legislation to regulate revenge porn.

Shes calling on the House to now pass the bill and send it to President Donald Trump to become law.

Melania Trump says Congress must prioritize the well-being of young people because they deserve a safe online space to express themselves freely without the threat of exploitation or harm.

National Science Foundation rehires dozens of probationary workers

Of the 86 probationary employees let go last month, 84 have been rehired after a federal judge recently found the mass firing of probationary employees may have been unlawful.

The latest move was confirmed by foundation spokesperson Michael England in a statement.

The rehiring is also a response to Office of Personnel Management guidance from last week, allowing agencies to keep certain probationary employees who are disabled, are veterans or are military spouses.

The science foundation cut 170 employees last month. An additional 84 workers appointed as temporary experts were not rehired.

Trump expected to announce chip company investment

He is expected to announce Monday that chip giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. plans to invest $100 billion in the United States, according to a person familiar with the plans who was not authorized to speak publicly.

TSMC, the worlds biggest semiconductor manufacturer, had already announced plans to invest more than $65 billion in the U.S., including three plants in Arizona after the Biden administration offered billions in subsidies. It was not immediately clear if the $100 billion includes the $65 billion that was already announced.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the planned announcement Monday.

 Michelle L. Price

Mexico's president is waiting to see if Trump makes good on tariff threat

Claudia Sheinbaums Cabinet secretaries for security and trade among others have been in constant communication with their U.S. counterparts.

She said there was still the possibility she and Trump would speak Monday about his threat to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports.

Trump had threatened to impose tariffs in February before suspending them at the last minute, when Mexico sent 10,000 National Guard troops to their shared border to crack down on drug trafficking and illegal immigration.

Its a decision that depends on the United States government, on the United States president, Sheinbaum said. So whatever his decision is, we will make our decisions and there is a plan and there is unity in Mexico.

CIA to deliver talk on creative problem solving at SXSW

The typically tight-lipped CIA is headed to the South By Southwest festival to share tips on finding innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Americas preeminent spy agency will deliver a presentation Sunday during the annual SXSW festival in Austin, Texas, the CIA announced Monday. A CIA historian and one of the agencys public affairs officers will deliver the talk, entitled Mission Possible: The Spies Guide to Creative Problem Solving.

The agency said its tips on creative problem solving are designed to be helpful to anyone, even if their particular challenges dont include running covert surveillance, organizing clandestine meetups or sniffing out double agents.

Ex-US diplomats express alarm at USAID job cuts

The warning about the cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development came in a statement from the American Academy of Diplomacy, which is led by former secretaries of State and other senior former diplomats.

The group stressed the importance of foreign aid to U.S. policy aims, and expressed concern that even popular farmer-backed programs donating food abroad would no longer have enough skilled people left to run them. America First need not mean America the Callous, the diplomatic group said.

The warning comes after the Trump administration has pulled thousands of USAID workers off the job and begun widescale firings.

Rock star Peter Wolf is latest performer to call off planned appearance at Kennedy Center

I have cancelled my upcoming book event at The Kennedy Center due to the egregious firing of staff by the new administration, the singer posted on social media over the weekend.

Wolf was to have discussed his memoir, Waiting on the Moon, at an event later this month for the centers Impactful Words series.

Actor Issa Rae and author Louise Penny are among others whove canceled events since Trump forced out the centers leadership last month and was elected chair of the boards trustees. Trump wrote on social media that he opposed Kennedy Center officials who do not share our Vision for a Golden Age in Arts and Culture.

Trump sends greetings for holy month of Ramadan

In a presidential message released Monday, Trump says Ramadan is a time to draw hope, courage and inspiration to lead lives of holiness and virtue.

Trump says his administration recommits to upholding religious liberty that is such an integral part of the American way of life. Above all, we renew our resolve to building a future of peace, and to recognizing the dignity imprinted on every human soul.

The president sought during his first term to ban travelers from several predominantly Muslim countries from entering the United States.

2 members of Congress urge governors to ban a prominent AI app on state government devices

The warning came in a letter from Illinois Republican Rep. Darin LaHood and New Jersey Democratic Rep. Josh Gottheimer concerning about the use of DeepSeek. The app recently gained popularity in the U.S. after displaying capabilities comparable to U.S. made AI models such as ChatGPT.

The members of Congress cited serious concerns regarding data privacy as reason for a ban.

The two introduced a bill in Congress to ban the use of DeepSeek on federal government devices in February. Similar bans have been enacted at the state and federal level for other Chinese apps, including the social media platform TikTok.

Trump criticizes Zelenskyy for saying end of the war is still very, very far away

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.

Zelenskyy late Sunday said he believed the war would go on for some time, while trying to offer a positive take about the U.S.-Ukraine relationship in the aftermath of his contentious White House meeting Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

I think our relationship (with the U.S.) will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship, Zelenskyy said, referring to Washingtons support for the past three years of war.

But Trump seemed further irritated by Zelenskyys latest comments suggesting it will take time for the three-year conflict to come to a close.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia, Trump added in his post. What are they thinking?

Rubio calls British counterpart to assure him Trump administration committed to peace in Ukraine

Mondays call between Secretary of State Marco Rubio and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy came after Britain hosted a leaders crisis summit over the weekend on Ukraine following a contentious White House meeting Friday between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The State Department said Rubio had thanked Foreign Secretary Lammy for the UKs role in encouraging Europe to provide for its own defense and push for peace in Ukraine.

It also said Rubio confirmed the United States is ready to negotiate to end the Ukraine-Russia conflict and will continue working with the UK towards peace in Ukraine.

RFK Jr.'s agency spokesman abruptly resigns

The top spokesman for the U.S. Health and Human Services agency abruptly resigned on Friday, just two weeks after being sworn in to lead communications for the agency overseen by Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Tom Corry said on LinkedIn that he resigned from the job on Friday. His resignation comes as Kennedy has struggled with his public response to the measles outbreak in West Texas, first calling it not unusual, then on Sunday describing it as a call to action.

Corry previously oversaw communications for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services agency during the first Trump administration.

CEO of Taiwanese semiconductor company TSMC will be in the White House on Monday

TSMC has committed to investing $65 billion to build factories in Arizona to make advanced chips. Last month, the company held its board meeting for the first time in the United States but did not make any announcement for expanded investment, as speculated.

President Trump has accused Taiwan of taking away the semiconductor industry from the United States and has threatened to impose high tariffs on imported chips. Trump also has said companies like TSMC dont need federal tax incentives.

First lady Melania Trump goes to Capitol Hill

She's participating in a roundtable discussion with members of Congress on the Take It Down Act. The bill is designed to speed the removal of non-consensual intimate imagery, including videos that imitate real people, also known as deepfakes.

The Senate passed the bill last month. Melania Trump is making a public show of support for the bill Monday to help get it through the House and to the presidents desk to become law.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, a sponsor of the bill, is among lawmakers joining the first lady.

Haitians and Venezuelans sue Trump administration to save immigration protections

The group of three immigrant advocacy organizations and four immigrants filed the lawsuit over temporary protections that have shielded hundreds of thousands of immigrants from being deported.

The lawsuit seeks to block the termination of temporary protected status, a legal status that for decades has allowed people already in the United States to stay and work legally if their homelands are deemed unsafe.

In February the Trump administration announced the end of TPS for 500,000 Haitians and roughly 350,000 Venezuelans whose status is slated to expire in August and April. That is about half of the approximately 600,000 Venezuelans who have the protection. The remaining protections are set to expire at the end of September.

The plaintiffs are Haitians Americans United, Venezuelan Association of Massachusetts, UndocuBlack Network and four immigrants who are not identified because of their fears for being deported.

Waltz commends UK Prime Minister Starmer, French President Macron for stepping up on Ukraine

We welcome the Europeans taking a lead in European security, National security adviser Mike Waltz told reporters at the White House. I mean thats been an underpinning. They have to invest in the capability to do that. Theyre certainly showing a will.

Waltzs comments come after Starmer gathered his European counterparts in London on Sunday for talks and called on them to shore up their borders and throw their full weight behind Ukraine as he announced outlines of a plan to end Russias war.

Both Starmer and Macron have said they would send troops to Ukraine for a peacekeeping mission once a truce in the fighting between Ukraine and Russia is achieved.

Theres initial signs of effect on the budget, Congressional Budget Office director says of DOGE cuts

Phillip Swagel, director of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, said Monday that cuts enacted by the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, are slowing government spending but added that its too early to make any broader judgement about DOGEs impact on spending or deficits.

Theres initial signs that there has been a budgetary impact, Swagel said in remarks at the National Association for Business Economics. He noted that government spending in some agencies has come in below what was projected before the Trump administration took office. But he said the cuts wont show up as official budgetary savings unless Congress rescinds the money through legislation later this year. Some of DOGEs spending cuts could be reversed by the courts, he said. He also noted that the majority of government spending is in the form of mandatory benefit programs and hasnt been affected.

RFK Jr. lays out benefits of measles vaccines, but stops short of calling for people to get a dose

The nations top health official wrote Sunday that the measles vaccine has benefits but he stopped short of calling on parents to inoculate their children from the deadly disease.

In an opinion piece for Fox News, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urged parents to consult with healthcare providers on whether their children should get the vaccine that protects against measles, mumps and rubella.

Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons, Kennedy wrote in the piece, published Sunday.

Kennedy has previously criticized the vaccines, although research and real-world use has proven that they are safe and effective.

Waltz adds to doubt about whether White House willing to deal with Zelenskyy going forward

National security adviser Mike Waltz also on Monday said Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyys posture during Fridays Oval Office put up in the air whether hes someone the U.S. administration will be able to deal with going forward.

Is he ready? Personally, politically, to move his country towards an end to the fighting? Waltz said on Fox News on Monday. And can he and will he make the compromises necessary?

Waltz added another layer of doubt about U.S. support in the aftermath of Fridays contentious meeting with President Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

National Security Adviser Mike Waltz calls Oval Office blowup a truly ridiculous and unacceptable session

He was speaking on Fox News on Monday morning.

The meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which was meant to result in the signing of a minerals deal between the two nations was abruptly ended after an extraordinary blowup between the Ukrainian and American leaders.

Hes not ready to talk peace at all, Waltz said. This wasnt an ambush, he said. Zelenskyy did his country a disservice.

Unlike some Republican lawmakers who over the weekend called for Zelenskyys resignation  Waltz did not call on the Ukrainian leader to step down, but after asked whether Zelenskyy is fit to lead Ukraine, Waltz said: what happened Friday really put that up in the air.

Senate will vote on confirming Linda McMahon to lead an education agency Trump has vowed to close

The Senate will be voting Monday.

McMahon would face the competing tasks of winding down the Education Department while also escalating efforts to achieve Trumps agenda. Already the Republican president has signed sweeping orders to rid Americas schools of diversity programs and accommodations for transgender students while also calling for expanded school choice programs.

At the same time, Trump has promised to shut down the department and said he wants McMahon to put herself out of a job.

A billionaire and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, McMahon, 76, is an unconventional pick for the role. She spent a year on Connecticuts state board of education and is a longtime trustee at Sacred Heart University but otherwise has little traditional education leadership.

 Read more about Linda McMahon

Trumps next first speech to Congress is bound to have little resemblance to his last first one

The nation will hear a new president sing a far different tune in his prime-time address before Congress on Tuesday night. Some Americans will lustily sing along. Others will plug their ears.

The old tune is out  the one where a president declares we strongly support NATO, I believe strongly in free trade and Washington must do more to promote clean air, clean water, womens health and civil rights.

That was Donald Trump in 2017.

That was back when gestures of bipartisanship and appeals to national unity were still in the mix on the night the president comes before Congress to hold forth on the state of the union. Trump, then new at the job, was just getting his footing in the halls of power and not ready to stomp on everything.

It would be three more years before Americans would see Democratic Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California, then the House speaker and his State of the Union host in the chamber, performatively rip up a copy of Trumps speech in disgust over its contents.

 Read more about what to expect from Trumps address to congress

The Trump administration may exclude government spending from GDP, obscuring the impact of DOGE cuts

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Sunday that government spending could be separated from gross domestic product reports, in response to questions about whether the spending cuts pushed by Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency could possibly cause an economic downturn.

You know that governments historically have messed with GDP, Lutnick said on Fox News Channels Sunday Morning Futures. They count government spending as part of GDP. So Im going to separate those two and make it transparent.

Doing so could potentially complicate or distort a fundamental measure of the U.S. economys health. Government spending is traditionally included in the GDP because changes in taxes, spending, deficits and regulations by the government can impact the path of overall growth. GDP reports already include extensive details on government spending, offering a level of transparency for economists.

 Read more about government spending and the GDP

Trudeau is expected to bring up Trumps threat to annex Canada when he meets King Charles

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with King Charles III, the countrys head of state, on Monday where he will discuss U.S. President Donald Trumps threats to make Canada the 51st state.

The king has come under criticism in Canada for being silent about Trumps threats to annex Canada.

Trudeau said in London on Sunday he will discuss matters of importance to Canadians with Charles and said nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation.

 Read more about Trudeaus meeting with King Charles III
Farmers and others who work the land and sea have higher suicide rates than those in other professions. (Photo by Steve Smith/Tetra Images via Getty Images)

This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know who works in agriculture, forestry or the fishing industry is struggling, call or text 833-897-2474 for help. Help is also available to everyone through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988.

For more than a year, Oregonians involved in agriculture, forestry and the fishing industry have had a resource to help them when theyre in a mental health crisis.

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The AgriStress helpline, which launched in Oregon in September 2023, is geared toward people in those industries, offering a safe option to those who ordinarily might not seek help.

The pull-yourself-up-by-your-boot-strings mentality often prevents our community members from seeking help, making resources like the AgriStress helpline vital to breaking that cycle as imperative, Republican state Rep. Bobby Levy of Echo, a longtime farmer and rancher, said during a recent legislative meeting on a bill to keep the line operating in perpetuity.

Senate Bill 779, sponsored by Levy and a fellow Republican rancher, state Sen. Todd Nash of Enterprise, would allocate $2 million to a helpline endowment, the Rural Mental Health Fund, which is housed in the Oregon State University Foundation. The endowment earns 4% interest, enough to keep the line operating as long as it was needed, supporters said.

Since its launch, specialists have handled more than 50 calls and texts from farmers, fishermen, loggers and foresters in 28 Oregon counties. Though that might not seem like much, Allison Myers, an OSU extension associate dean and lead supporter of the line, said studies show that every suicide can affect 130 people and can be devastating in small communities. And each call can prevent that from happening.

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Any number of calls is a good number, Myers said in written testimony.

The service is available 24/7, with interpreters available for 160 languages, and every caller receives a follow-up call the next day. That service costs about $78,000 a year, and Oregon currently has the funding to keep it going for about a year and a half.

Oregon has long had higher suicide rates than the U.S. average. In its 2024 report, Mental Health America, which ranks states, put Oregon last in terms of the prevalence of mental health issues. The ranking showed the state has improved in access to care  it was ranked sixth  but it can still be difficult for people to get help.

Studies show that crisis lines like 988 are effective in helping people feel less depressed, overwhelmed and suicidal. Theyre also been shown to give people hope. While call takers for 988 and other crisis lines are trained, they dont receive training in the culture, demands and potential stress factors of working in agriculture, forestry and fisheries, as AgriStress specialists are.

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The livelihoods of professionals in these industries are often affected by outside factors like the weather or commodity prices, and the work can be lonely and grueling. And that can lead to people taking their lives. Oregon Health Authority data shows that people in these industries have the highest suicide rates of any profession.

This is more than just the legislation, Levy said during the Early Childhood and Behavioral Health Committee hearing. Its a lifeline for the people who feed, clothe and build our state.

The service was developed and launched in 2022 by the AgriSafe Network, a nonprofit that supports health and safety preventive services for farmers and their families. The following year, Oregon signed on with an allocation of $300,000 approved by lawmakers to launch the service in the state.

Oregon was the seventh state to use the service, which is now available in 10 states besides Oregon  Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Missouri, Montana, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming.

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The bill has the support of more than a dozen industry groups, including the Oregon Farm Bureau, Oregon Wine Council and the Oregon Association of Nurseries. Its also backed by Weyerhaeuser, the timber company; the Oregon Water Resources Congress; and the Eastern Oregon Counties Association.

If approved by the early childhood committee, the bill will move to Ways and Means to compete with other bills that need funding.

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ACCRA, Ghana (AP)  Lawmakers in Ghana have reintroduced an anti-LGBTQ+ bill that was passed by parliament last year but not enacted, a sponsor told The Associated Press on Monday.

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo did not sign the bill into law last year before his term ended, saying he was waiting until the Supreme Court ruled on a challenge to it. The court dismissed the challenge in December, shortly after Akufo-Addo lost his bid for another term.

Ghana has generally been considered more respectful of human rights than most African countries, and the bill sparked condemnation from the international community and rights groups when it passed last year, with the United Nations calling it profoundly disturbing.

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Gay sex is illegal in the West African country, carrying a three-year prison sentence. The bill if enacted would impose up to five years in prison for those who engage in willful promotion, sponsorship or support of LGBTQ+ activities.

President John Dramani Mahama, who took office in January, said last week he was committed to passing the bill but it should be reintroduced by the government rather than members of parliament.

Opposition lawmaker John Ntim Fordjour told the AP that he and nine other lawmakers reintroduced the bill last week, and criticized the president.

He must be reminded that parliament is an independent institution and that the executive cannot dictate to parliament what it must do," Fordjour said.

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Sponsors of the bill have said it seeks to protect children and people who are victims of abuse.

Ghanas Ministry of Finance warned last year that the bill would put $3.8 billion in World Bank funding at risk and likely would derail the $3 billion International Monetary Fund bailout program agreed to in 2023.

Ghanas economy is recovering from its worst recession in decades.

In 2023, the World Bank said it would not consider new funding for Uganda after it enacted anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.
An F-22 Raptor prepares for take off at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. (Photo by Stocktrek Images/Getty Images)

Utah lawmakers advanced a bill on Monday that attempts to rein in foreign governments that want to purchase land in Utah, while trying to curb what lawmakers say is a growing form of espionage posing a threat to the states military installations.

HB430 passed out of the Senate Government Operations and Political Subdivisions Committee with unanimous approval from lawmakers. It will now be considered by the entire Senate body.

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The bill builds on past legislation from Pierucci that targets restricted foreign entities  Russia, China, North Korea and Iran. That includes a law preventing these countries from purchasing land in Utah, and a follow up bill that bars companies associated with these countries from buying land.

Pieruccis HB430 has two main focuses. It would require county recorders to provide a form to people purchasing land where they can disclose their relationship with a foreign government. If the person does not disclose connections to a restricted foreign entity (for instance, having served in the Russian military) or that theyre buying the land on behalf of a restricted foreign entity, they can be charged with a third-degree felony.

And, the bill targets a bizarre form of espionage that Pierucci says is a growing threat. A 2023 report from The Wall Street Journal found more than 100 incidents where Chinese nationals, posing as tourists or food delivery drivers, tried to enter U.S. military bases.

Depending on whos at the gate, they may let them through, said Pierucci. Those individuals can go take a little drive around the base, take some pictures and leave.

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Pieruccis bill would direct food delivery services to designate military bases as off limits, while creating a drop zone outside of the base so people can more securely receive deliveries.

If someone really needs their Popeyes, or whatever it is, theyre going to need to drop it off out front and not go into the base, she said.

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ATLANTA (AP)  Atlanta police have for years illegally targeted critics of a police and firefighter training center, according to a federal lawsuit filed on behalf of a protester who is one of dozens of Stop Cop City activists facing domestic terrorism and racketeering charges.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Jamie Marsicano, alleges that authorities view any critic of the training center as a would-be criminal and have repeatedly made arrests without cause, depriving protesters of their First Amendment rights and their civil rights protections against false arrest and malicious prosecution.

The long-brewing controversy over the training center erupted in January 2023 after state troopers who were part of a sweep of the South River Forest killed an activist who authorities said had fired at them. Numerous protests ensued, with masked vandals sometimes attacking police vehicles and construction equipment to stall the project and intimidate contractors into backing out.

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Though the training center is nearly complete, dozens of defendants, including Marsicano, are facing a state racketeering charge that critics have decried as heavy-handed attempts to silence the movement, which emerged in the wake of the 2020 racial justice protests. Environmental activists and anti-police demonstrators argued that uprooting acres of trees for the facility would exacerbate environmental damage in a flood-prone, majority-Black area while serving as an expensive staging ground for militarized officers to be trained in quelling social movements.

Marsicano, 31, was among 23 people arrested near a music festival in DeKalb County in March 2023, hours after a group of more than 150 masked festivalgoers trekked about three-quarters of a mile (1.2 kilometers) through the South River Forest and stormed the training center's construction site, with some lighting equipment on fire as others threw objects at retreating officers. The group then returned to the festival to blend in with the crowd.

According to an arrest warrant, authorities said Marsicano, who uses they/them pronouns, was taken into custody because they had on muddy clothing from crossing through the woods and possessed a shield, assertions that Marsicano's attorneys say are false.

Marsicano's attorneys say their client was not among the group that attacked the construction site and never left the festival grounds until they were arrested while walking back to their vehicle after police ordered everyone to disperse.

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Marsicano was caught up in an indiscriminate mass arrest of legitimate festival attendees that was part of a pattern spearheaded by Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum of authorities targeting the Stop Cop City movement, according to the lawsuit, which was filed Feb. 24.

Marsicano was subsequently charged with domestic terrorism and, months later, was one of 61 charged with violating Georgias Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, known as RICO.

Marsicano was banned from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus after their arrest and completed their law degree remotely but has had difficulty finding a job and securing housing because of the charges, according to the lawsuit.

Marsicano was publicly broadcast to the world as a domestic terrorist and RICO co-conspirator, forever tarnishing Plaintiffs personal and professional life, the lawsuit said.

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The lawsuit lists more than a dozen instances in which authorities pretextually charged individuals deemed to be at or around Stop Cop City, including after a May 2022 protest where three people walking home were selectively stopped for carrying Stop Cop City signs, and taken into custody. Those arrests, as well as others, have led to civil lawsuits that are pending.

Marsicano's lawsuit names various law enforcement officials as well as the city of Atlanta, which it accuses of having made a custom and practice of targeting critics of the training center.

Neither the Atlanta Police Department nor a spokesperson for the city immediately responded to a request for comment.

City officials say the $115 million, 85-acre (34-hectare) campus will replace outdated, far-flung facilities and boost police morale amid hiring and retention struggles. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has also said that the facility will teach the most progressive training and curriculum in the country and that officials have repeatedly revised their plans to address environmental concerns.
SEVIERVILLE, Tenn. (WATE)  An Alabama couple is suing the City of Sevierville and the Sevierville Police Department after they were accused of DUI and lost custody of their children for nine months.

The lawsuit, filed by Nicholas and Elizabeth Frye, claims their constitutional rights were violated and their family has suffered irreparable, permanent and significant mental and emotional anguish. The couple is seeking to have their case heard by a jury.

Mayor: 1 dead after landmark building destroyed in fire

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The lawsuit claims Nicholas Frye, Elizabeth Frye and their two children travelled to Sevier County to celebrate their youngest childs birthday. On February 25, 2024, Elizabeth slipped and fell on concrete stairs at the resort the family was staying at.

Due to her injuries, the family went to Walmart to get supplies. The lawsuit claims that as they were leaving Walmart, the couple was pulled over for no justifiable reason. The parents were accused of being intoxicated and arrested. They were charged with DUI, public intoxication, child abuse, neglect and aggravated child abuse and neglect without sufficient evidence for probable cause, according to the lawsuit.

The children were taken to the Sevierville Police Department where the lawsuit says they were held until their grandmother arrived from Alabama. An SPD officer contacted the Tennessee Department of Childrens Services about the parents arrests. Tennessees DCS then contacted the Alabama Department of Human Resources. The parents were then precluded from seeing their children without any evidentiary basis and without probable cause, according to the lawsuit. It took nine months for the Fryes to regain custody of their children.

The suit closes by claiming the officers who arrested the Fryes and the agents who acted to remove their children violated their 14th Amendment rights and were deliberately indifferent to their rights, making the arrests and removal illegal. It also claims the City of Sevierville has a history of similar illegal seizures and removals, making them liable. In addition, it claims the city, state of Tennessee, the Department of Childrens Services did not properly train their officers.

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Crews from across South Carolina help battle Carolina Forest-area wildfires

The couple is seeking relief for the cost of past and future medical care, attorneys fees spent in defending the states criminal action against them, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and non-economic damages for mental and emotional pain and suffering, mental and emotional anguish, permanent impairment and disabilities, and loss of enjoyment of life and their attorneys fees.

The city of Sevierville said they do not comment on pending litigation in response to a question from 6 News about the lawsuit.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side.
COPENHAGEN (Reuters) -Budget carrier Norwegian has agreed to buy 10 Boeing 737-800 aircraft that are currently part of its leased fleet, the airline said on Monday.

The transaction is expected to close during the first quarter and will initially be funded through the company's cash reserves, though the airline is looking at securing long-term financing after completion, Norwegian's statement said.

"This move is expected to deliver both short and long-term cost savings, as well as provide additional flexibility for future fleet planning," said Chief Executive Geir Karlsen.

Norwegian declined to disclose the price or seller, nor would it confirm whether the deal had been made with one or several leasing companies.

The airline said it expects to book a non-recurring gain of about 570 million Norwegian crowns ($50.7 million) as a result of the deal.

"This gain reflects the pricing the company has been able to achieve for the aircraft and the corresponding reduction of existing lease liabilities," Norwegian said.

The deal is also expected to yield recurring cost savings of about 200 million crowns a year, net of financing costs, it added.

($1 = 11.2452 Norwegian crowns)

(Reporting by Stine JacobsenEditing by David Goodman)
Roundup weed killing products are offered for sale at a home improvement store on May 14, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois (Scott Olson/Getty Images).

German chemical giant Bayer is improperly using a court order to hide details of a propaganda campaign targeting Missouri lawmakers and potential jurors, an emergency motion to lift the confidentiality cloak claims.

In a case pending in Cole County Circuit Court, attorney Matt Clement is arguing that 46 public relations documents designated as confidential by Bayers attorneys contain no proprietary information. A hearing before a special master is scheduled for March 12.

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Instead, Clement wrote in the motion filed last week, the records  included among 20,000 delivered under discovery  detail the methods Bayer has used to influence opinion, including radio, television and print ads.

Bayer acquired Roundup  and the liability that may accrue in lawsuits over its health effects  when it took over St. Louis-based Monsanto in 2018. There are approximately 25,000 lawsuits pending in Cole County alleging that Roundup causes cancer and the label failed to warn consumers of the risk.

Cole County has been especially inundated with Monsantos propaganda, Clement wrote in the motion seeking to unseal the records. Legion are its billboards, radio and television ads, social media pop ups and other communications seeking to convince both the jury pool and the legislature that the lawsuits involving Roundup are somehow illegitimate and that Bayer/Monsanto needs legislative protection.

Clement represents Ronald Jackelen of Somerset, Wisconsin, in a case filed in Cole County in 2022. Jackelen has non-Hodgkins lymphoma he blames on Roundup and its main ingredient, glyphosate.

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Clement declined to comment on the filing.

Legislation that passed the Missouri House last month to protect Bayer would make the label mandated by the EPA for all chemicals classified as pesticides  weed killers, bug killers and fertilizers  sufficient to satisfy any requirement for a warning label regarding cancer.

The bill is awaiting assignment to a state Senate committee.

Several lawsuits are scheduled for trial this year. Bayer has already been through a 2023 trial where a Cole County jury awarded three plaintiffs $1.56 billion, including $1.5 billion in punitive damages. The verdict was reduced to $622 million and is under appeal, with arguments scheduled for April 10 in Kirksville.

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Two organizations are making direct public appeals seeking support for legislation protecting glyphosate.

One set of messages, running on Jefferson City-area radio stations, is from an organization called the Modern Ag Alliance. The ads present glyphosate as a benign, beneficial chemical essential to modern agriculture.

State Sen. Brad Hudson of Cape Fair speaks at a news conference Feb. 25 about flyers sent to his constituents attacking his opposition to a bill limiting lawsuits against Bayer over its herbicide Roundup. Joining Hudson, from left, are Sens. Nick Schroer of Defiance, Ben Brown of Washington, Joe Nicola of Independence, Mike Moon of Ash Grove, Rick Brattin of Harrisonville, Adam Schnelting of St. Charles, Jill Carter of Joplin and David Gregory of Chesterfield (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).

The other, from the Protect America Initiative, includes television ads in central Missouri and a direct mail campaign accusing nine Republican state senators of betraying President Donald Trumps agenda by allowing Chinese Communist Party chemicals to take over the market.

The Modern Ag Alliance has spent almost $100,000 on its ad campaign since mid-November, Federal Communications Commission records show. The ads are designed to educate the public, not influence potential jurors, said Jess Christiansen, spokeswoman for Bayer Crop Science at its U.S. headquarters in St. Louis County.

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Thats not the business were in, Christiansen said. Those campaigns are nothing more than that, just to educate and inform.

Bayer doesnt hide that it is part of the Modern Ag Alliance, which Christiansen said has about 90 other partners.

The Protect America Initiative has spent almost $175,000 since late January  including a $75,000 ad during the Super Bowl  in addition to the direct mail effort.

If they were intended to boost support for the legislation, the ads and mailers have backfired, with the nine senators holding a joint news conference last week denouncing the attacks. They said they were convinced Bayer was responsible and would ask the Missouri Ethics Commission to investigate.

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Its dark money, through and through, said state Sen. Nick Schroer, a Republican from Defiance.

Bayer has no connection with the politically charged ads, Christiansen said.

Theres lots of misinformation swirling around, she said. We are willing to sit with whomever it is. I dont care if its a Republican, a Democrat, a libertarian, a Freedom Caucus member. We need to work together.

In the motion to be argued Thursday, Clement wrote that the documents that should be unsealed detail how Bayer crafted its messaging, who it has enlisted to deliver it from a seemingly neutral position and how much it has paid for advertising and lobbying.

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Monsantos motivation for its abuse of the protective order to blanket-designate these documents as confidential is clear  to hide Monsantos ongoing attempts to improperly influence the public, as well as its legislative efforts concerning the safety of glyphosate, such that it can continue to sell and profit from the product without a warning, Clement wrote.

Bayer is the only U.S. manufacturer of glyphosate, with a production facility in Luling, Louisiana, that is the worlds largest single producer. Other production facilities are in Idaho and Iowa. China is the worlds other main supplier of glyphosate. China and India are major world suppliers of a variety of farm chemicals.

Along with the U.S. corporate headquarters, Bayer has its research and development facilities in St. Louis County. Its total Missouri employment is about 5,000, Christiansen said.

Along with Missouri, legislation to designate the EPA label as the only label needed on Roundup and other regulated farm chemicals is being pushed in Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Wyoming, Christiansen said.

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The purpose of the legislation is to really protect access to critical crop protection tools that farmers need to safely, effectively and affordably produce the food we all need, Christiansen said.

Winning passage of the legislation in Missouri is especially important because most state-level cases are filed here because it is the national home of Bayer. When a Missouri-based corporation is sued by someone for injuries that occurred outside the state, the case must be filed in the court covering the location of the companys registered agent.

Bayers registered agent was in St. Louis County, and thousands of cases were filed there before the company shifted its agent to Jefferson City in October 2021. Last year, following the massive jury award in Cole County, the registered agent was moved again, back to St. Louis County.

Thousands of new cases have been filed in St. Louis County since the shift. There are also a multitude of federal lawsuits pending in the U.S. District Court for Northern California.

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Bayer has set aside about $16 billion to deal with Roundup lawsuits, including more than $10 billion it has already paid out in settlements, Christiansen said.

This failure to warn claim just is not valid, because, No. 1, glyphosate doesnt cause cancer, Christiansen said. And No. 2, were labeling according to how were legally required to label.

Glyphosate is listed as a probable cause of cancer by the International Agency on Research of Cancer, a part of the World Health Organization.

There is limited evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of glyphosate, stated a 2016 report evaluating research worldwide. A positive association has been observed for non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

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There are four categories of public relations documents Clement is asking Circuit Judge Daniel Green to unseal. They are records showing correspondence with journalists or third parties, with talking points for use in public interviews; plans for advertising and media buys; lobbying strategies; and how it enlists third parties to deliver messages the public would mistrust if it came from Bayer.

These documents are important to this litigation because they demonstrate Monsantos efforts to manipulate and mislead the public, Clement wrote.

In the filing, Clement noted that in a pretrial order for a California case, denying Monsantos motion for summary judgment, U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria focused on the companys efforts to sway the public as it contested the allegations that Roundup causes cancer.

Although the evidence that Roundup causes cancer is quite equivocal, Chhabria wrote, there is strong evidence from which a jury could conclude that Monsanto does not particularly care whether its product is in fact giving people cancer, focusing instead on manipulating public opinion and undermining anyone who raises genuine and legitimate concerns about the issue.

This article was updated March 7 to reflect a new date for a hearing on the emergency motion.

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A "no trespassing" sign outside of Northwest ICE Processing Center. (Grace Deng/Washington State Standard)

Attorneys for a former Armenian refugee held in the federal immigrant detention center in Tacoma say he has been unable to get medical treatment for months, leaving his family worried he could soon die.

Oganes Doganyans lawyers have petitioned a federal judge for his release from the Northwest ICE Processing Center so he could get treatment for a rare disorder that has caused excessive bleeding.

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This is the latest in a monthslong effort to get care for Doganyan, 52.

This is an individual who is going to die, said his attorney Greg Russell. Its only a matter of time.

Allegations about lack of access to medical care have been rampant in the private detention center for years. And the centers critics have worried about worsening conditions as the Trump administration ramps up deportations nationwide.

The Tacoma facility is one of the biggest in the country, with 1,575 beds. The facility houses both detained locals as well as people taken into custody in other states before deportation, like Doganyan.

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Immediately after President Donald Trump took office, weekly flights through Boeing Field to the detention center spiked in size, carrying 90 or 100 detainees each week. Last week, just two people got off the plane for detention, according to the advocacy group La Resistencia which monitors the flights.

Last Tuesday, no one was flown into the facility, a possible signal of the population constraints at the for-profit center operated by The Geo Group. GEO last week announced a roughly $1 billion, 15-year contract with the federal government to provide additional space for detained immigrants at a 1,000-bed facility in New Jersey.

Before 2020, the Tacoma facility was often near capacity, but that plummeted to just a few hundred people during the pandemic. In recent years, the number of people held at the site has stabilized but was still far below 1,000.

As of last week, over 1,350 people were detained there, said Matt Adams, the legal director for the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project.

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It is clear that they will be going back to filling up the beds in their effort to make a statement, Adams said in an email.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in recent weeks have publicized several strings of arrests in Washington.

Yearslong concerns about conditions at the detention center have resulted in calls for state inspections and increased regulation, leading to legal back-and-forths still playing out in court.

In March 2024, Charles Leo Daniel, 61, died there after years in solitary confinement. The Pierce County Medical Examiner later said Daniel died of natural causes. Still, the incident led to calls for a federal audit of health care services at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities.

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In October, Jose Manuel Sanchez-Castro, was experiencing fentanyl withdrawal when he died in the detention center.

Maru Mora Villalpando, the founder of La Resistencia, said a pregnant woman in the detention center also hasnt been getting medical care recently.

Doganyans medical concerns, meanwhile, trace back to before Trump took office last month.

Race against time

Doganyan has been held in the detention center since August, his lawyers said.

Hes been in the country since arriving as an 18-year-old refugee from the former Soviet Union with his family in 1990. For years, he lived in southern California as a lawful permanent resident.

Oganes Doganyan is being held in the Northwest ICE Processing Center. His lawyers and family are asking he be released from the facility so he can receive medical care for a rare disease. (Photo courtesy of Greg Russell)

He got in trouble with the law in 2018 over allegations of health care fraud, threatening his green card. He is set for a hearing to decide on deportation in early April, according to his lawyers. They worry he wont be alive by then.

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Thats in gods hands, said one of Doganyans other lawyers, Judy Wood.

Because Doganyan was born in the former Soviet Union, he isnt an Armenian citizen, leaving him stateless.

Doganyan has several medical issues, including Type 2 diabetes and a rare blood clotting disorder called Factor II deficiency, which is caused by a lack of protein in the blood. Because of the disorder, medical staff at the detention center said they couldnt obtain bloodwork or treat him out of fear it would cause excessive bleeding, according to his habeas corpus petition filed in U.S. District Court in Seattle.

An ICE spokesperson declined to comment, citing a private health matter and the ongoing litigation.

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In late November, Doganyans lawyers filed a request for humanitarian parole with the federal Department of Homeland Security. The department hasnt responded to that request, Russell said.

My perspective is theyre not going to listen to any legal arguments, Russell said. Theyre not going to listen to due process and the constitutional issues. Theyre just going to do what they want to do.

Doganyan is now asking to be either transferred or released with supervision via ankle monitor so he can get medical care. But Russell cautioned it could be months before a judge takes up his petition.

Doganyans mother, wife and children are U.S. citizens.

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The family asked me, What happens if he dies? Russell said. All you can do is maybe sue them, but thats not going to bring him back.

Medical care standards

ICEs standards for medical care state a detainee who requires close, chronic or convalescent medical supervision shall be treated in accordance with a written treatment plan conforming to accepted medical practices for the condition in question, approved by a licensed physician.

They also allow for transfers to other facilities if the detention center doesnt have the resources to care for someone.

Doganyans lawyers say ICE is clearly not following these standards in the Tacoma detention center. Their petition argues his continued detention is not constitutional because it constitutes unfair and inhumane treatment as well as cruel and unusual punishment.

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Doganyan calls his lawyers often. Hes been depressed and frustrated that the country where hes lived for over 30 years isnt caring for him.

As Americans, we come to expect  that the government will treat us with basic decency, Russell said. Thats not being done here.

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Mar. 2The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce had a group of special visitors on Tuesday.

Students from Open Door School attended, as a proclamation was read in honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

The proclamation makes March DD Awareness Month in Lawrence County. President Ronald Reagan first made March Developmental Disabilities Month in 1982 "to increase awareness of the contributions and challenges of millions of Americans who have some form of developmental disability," read Commissioner DeAnna Holliday. "The Lawrence County DD programs serve over 600 individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Lawrence County and their families. We acknowledge that all people are capable of contributing to the community and support the full inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all aspects of community living."

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The commission then took a moment to take their picture with the students before resuming the county's business.

"We are glad everybody is here," said Commission President Colton Copley.

Julie Monroe, superintendent with LCDD, thanked the commissioners for their continued support of LCDD.

"This month is about shining a spotlight on what our people need in this community," she said. "They have abilities and give back just like everyone else."

She added they look forward to all the events they will be having this month including their annual Chilifest be on March 22 from 10 a.m.  2 p.m. at the Open Door School, 606 Carlton Davidson Lane, Coal Grove.

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"We look forward to seeing everyone there," Monroe said.

Lawrence County 911 coordinator Nick Kuhn gave the commissioners a rundown of the calls they calls the 911 center got last year.

He said that in 2024, the dispatch center answered 43,072 calls, of those, 22,993 were 911 calls.

Kuhn said while the numbers seemed different, if there was, say, a fire or a car accident, the center will get multiple calls from the public for the same event.

"We could get five or ten calls just for one thing," he said.

Kuhn added that 98 percent of 911 calls were answered within three seconds, "which puts in the top tier for compliance with the state."

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He added the average time, from the call to the appropriate agency being notified, was 90 seconds.

The dispatchers have also been trained in fire dispatch protocols and with the new protocol and the short dispatch time, it helps to lower insurance rates for Lawrence County residents.

He added that other agencies across the state have been talking with their Lawrence County counterparts, including the Ohio State Highway Patrol and other counties' dispatch center have begun mirroring Lawrence County procedures.

"This is all made possible by teamwork. There has been a lot of great teamwork happening," Kuhn said, adding that dispatchers are putting in a lot of extra time and training to get better. He said before a recent snowstorm, people came in and slept in the office just in case an emergency arose in the county. "I am pretty proud of that."

The Lawrence County Commissioners meet at 10 a.m. Tuesday on the third floor of the Lawrence County Courthouse.
New Hampshire lawmakers are now considering House Bill 724, which aims to ensure safe lead removal practices during repairs. (Photo by Os Tartarouchos/Getty Images)

Have you ever known a rambunctious kindergartener who had difficulty concentrating, was easily distracted, and sometimes disruptive? You might blame poor parenting or failed pedagogy when often these symptoms typify a threat causing irreversible damage: lead poisoning.

Imagine this child as your own. You equip your home with smoke detectors and an alarm system. You test well water for contaminants, and air for radon gas and asbestos dust, yet overlook a simple, routine test to detect elevated blood lead levels.

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According to the National Library of Medicine, knowledge of lead-based paint as a source of lead poisoning in children dates back to the early 20th century. Though lead was officially removed from paint in 1978 after the passage of the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act, deteriorating lead-based paint in older homes remains the most significant source of lead exposure in children. Lead dust and paint chip hazards arise from friction between surfaces like door frames and window sills and during home renovation projects, all harmful to 1- and 2-year-olds exploring their surroundings while touching surfaces in constant hand-to-mouth activity.

The World Health Organization states that lead can permanently affect childrens brain development resulting in a lower IQ, social isolation, speech delays, lower academic achievement, kidney damage, hearing loss, and sometimes death. Schools spend more on special education addressing hyperactivity and behavioral challenges, and health care systems bear the cost of managing long-term effects of lead exposure.

Heidi Trimarco of the Conservation Law Foundation writes: As parents, we all want the best for our kids. We want to see them running around happily, thriving in school, and dreaming big about their futures.  As a mom, I cant imagine the heartbreak of knowing my child might not be able to learn, focus, or dream big because of a threat hiding in our own home.

In 2018, New Hampshire passed a law requiring that new residential rental units as well as day care centers in pre-1978 buildings be certified lead free. Despite this corrective measure, as well as other lead-safety measures contained in the bill, lead poisoning in New Hampshire has worsened.

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According to the state report from the Department of Health and Human Services, 1,142 children were poisoned by lead in 2023, the highest rate since required testing of 1- and 2-year-olds, bringing the five-year total to 4,570. Nearly 350 more children were poisoned in 2023 than the year before, a 42% increase. Lower-income and Medicaid-eligible children are twice as likely to be affected.

To close this tragic equity gap, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently awarded $19.8 million in Lead Paint Hazard Reduction grants for the City of Nashua, New Hampshire Housing, and Sullivan County to make 500 housing units lead-safe. Currently, an estimated 32,350 children under 6 years old live in pre-1978 housing. In 2022, 816 children had elevated blood lead levels, though only 70% of children ages 1 to 2 have been tested.

New Hampshire lawmakers are now considering House Bill 724, which aims to ensure safe lead removal practices during repairs. The bill also requires building permit applicants to provide an RRP license (Renovation, Repair, and Painting) for contractors and restores DHHSs ability to inspect other units for lead within a multi-unit building. Finally, it creates a rebuttable presumption that homes constructed prior to 1978 contain lead-based substances.

In his compelling story published by the Concord Monitor, Rich DiPentima, who has served as chief of communicable disease epidemiology and assistant director of public health for the New Hampshire Division of Public Health Services and deputy public health director for the Manchester Health Department, recalls a 2-year-old refugee girl placed in an older home.

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She was full of life, just beginning to discover the world around her, DiPentima writes. But hidden in the peeling paint and dust of that home was a silent killer: lead. Within two months, she suffered acute lead poisoning and died. Her blood lead level was 391 micrograms per deciliter  nearly 80 times the states safety limit.  Her life was cut short before it had truly begun. More than two decades later, I am still haunted by that tragedy, because I know it was preventable.

Lead-safe housing, universal testing, and fully funded abatement programs are essential. Your advocacy counts. Next time you visit your pediatrician, let them know the importance of lead screenings so that early childhood and beyond doesnt become a living hell for New Hampshires children.
Something strange is happening in Westminster. New money is working in mysterious new ways  and Labour is in thrall to it.

In exchange for destroying copyright markets worth some 125bn to the UK, Labour has been promised some magic beans: once artificial intelligence companies are free to effectively steal any British creativity they want and copy it, they will move here and we will be happy again.

Last week our newspapers synchronised their front pages to warn against watered down copyright rules, while top British artists including Kate Bush and Damon Albarn released an album of recordings of empty studios and concert halls to protest against the proposed changes.

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Destroying copyright to appease the Gods of AI is a very strange thing to do. Many in the creative industries are lifelong Labour voters, or were until now; musicians are even represented on Labours National Executive Committee.

No one else in the world is doing anything like this. As a result, not only are some intellectual property-based companies (and hefty taxpayers) now making plans to leave the UK, but the Government may also find itself dragged through the international courts, using powers reserved for rogue, pirate states.

Kate Bush has joined the chorus of protests against rules that will effectively allow AI to plunder British creativity - Dave Hogan/Hulton Archive

Thats something the Prime Minister, a human rights lawyer, might care about, but I suspect no one has told him yet. And why would this be?

Heres a clue.

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Listeners to BBC Radio 4s Today programme last week heard support for the Governments plans come from a 24-year-old, Julia Willemyns, founder of a think tank thats barely six months old. Willemyns proceeded to lecture Ed Newton Rex  the composer and AI entrepreneur behind the silent album  on how copyright really works.

Children educating adults? Its reminiscent of Maos Cultural Revolution, which cynically stoked up intergenerational conflict. Funnily enough, Willemynss think tank also has a sinister Maoist vibe: its called UK Day One.

Willemyns made some dubious claims that the BBC allowed to go unchallenged. She cited Japan as a model, which is odd. Japan made it easier for AI models to ingest copyright material in 2018 but now has buyers remorse.

Artists are furious, and the loophole may well be plugged up again. The flood of AI start-ups that Japan hoped for never appeared and they wont spring up here either, because businesses in Britain pay some of the highest electricity prices in the world. Thats because AI uses a huge amount of electricity.

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Where does this strain of cult-like, techno-utopian thinking come from that wants to do away with copyright and empower machines? It evolved from very intense rationalist online forums a decade ago such as Less Wrong, where poorly socialised economics and psychology nerds jostled for status. The blogger Scott Alexander, one of the leading lights, suggested they should call themselves the Grey Tribe, signalling a disdain for traditional left and right  or red and blue  politics.

Many signed up to a peculiar philosophy called effective altruism (EA), which argues that charity shouldnt be about doing what makes you feel or look good but what generates the best outcomes most effectively.

While it sounds reasonable enough, its supporters pursue whacky preoccupations ranging from fantasies about a killer artificial intelligence to extending animal rights to insects. Some of EAs supporters are hugely wealthy and have used their largess to extend the influence of these ideas. Facebook co-founder Dustin Moskovitz is the biggest EA funder and helped bring Willemynss UK Day One into existence with a 150,000 grant from his Open Philanthropy charity.

To understand Labours thinking we should also look to Matt Clifford, a government adviser. He steered Rishi Sunaks AI summit towards the theme of safety  yes, those killer AIs again  which ultimately empowered the big Silicon Valley players as they successfully argued only significant players like themselves could be trusted to police the risks. Labour appointed Clifford; he then obligingly recommended the copyright changes.

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Another influential source of funding for anti-copyright ideas is an attempt to invent a new field called Progress Studies, an initiative that also sprouted out of the nerd forums. It was devised by Stripe founder Patrick Collinson and Tyler Cowen, an economics blogger and professor. Emergent Ventures, a scheme that Cowen helps to administer, has dispensed grants to more than 800 people and organisations.

Without these two strands of thought, Effective Altruism and Progressive Studies, some policy phenomena such as Yimby would not even exist. Nor would the Crush Crime venture, furiously promoted by Dominic Cummings, which hasnt crushed very much crime, but has harvested a lot of emails.

Last week, The Daily Telegraph synchronised its front page with Britains other newspapers in opposition to Labours copyright plans - Eddie Mulholland

Supporters are aiming to create a movement. As Cowen himself explained recently: It would never be such a formal thing or controlled or managed or directed by a small group of people or trademarked. It would be people doing things in a very decentralised way that would reflect a general change of ethos and vibe.

Heres why all this matters.

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These groups have such a narrow concept of what progress means. The rationalists get too fixated on things they think might accelerate progress  mainly artificial intelligence  and are indifferent or hostile to things and people who they perceive as inhibiting it.

So older people, strong national borders and boundaries  a property right like copyright protection is a boundary  are all regarded in the same way that Scientologists view their critics: as suppressives.

But what kind of progress involves the destruction of markets for creative work? It is not progress at all but a regression to pre-Enlightenment times, when artists had to beg for their supper. It also paves the way for a creepy, post-human world: Cowen himself has said the bottleneck to progress is human beings.

This is where a bewildered Labour Party finds itself today, along with much of Tory wonkdom  and none of them really realises how they got here. Machine cults have replaced the very human concerns and needs of voters.

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For Labour, a political party founded on strong Christian beliefs that the weak shall inherit the Earth, this has been quite a journey.

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German authorities say a car-ramming incident in the southwestern city of Mannheim that killed two people Monday was a deliberate attack but it does not appear to have been politically or religiously motivated.

Police said Monday night the two dead were an 83-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man. Eleven others were injured.

The attacker purposefully targeted and struck people at high speed, police said at a press conference, noting that authorities originally thought they were responding to a traffic accident.

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Public prosecutor Romeo Schussler said there was concrete evidence that the suspected attacker suffers from a psychological illness. Police searched the suspects house Monday, the prosecutor added.

Mannheim police said they had arrested the suspect after launching a large-scale manhunt in the city center shortly after midday local time (6 a.m. ET).

The suspect is a 40-year-old German national from the neighboring Rhineland-Palatinate state, police said.

We are all deeply shocked by this heinous inhumane attack on peaceful people, said Christian Specht, mayor of Mannheim in a statement posted on the city website. Our thoughts are with the dead and injured, their families and friends.

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Mikla Cela, a worker at a restaurant in the city center, told CNN that he saw a black car drive by at high speed. He said he later heard several people screaming and saw a man with a white jacket lying on the floor.

Friedrich Merz, leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and likely Germanys next chancellor, said he was shocked by Mondays incident, as well as several other terrible acts that have rocked the country in recent months.

Germany must become a safe country again. We will work towards this with the utmost determination, Merz said.

Officers inspect a damaged vehicle after the deadly incident on March 3. - Boris Roessler/dpa/AP

Mannheim University Hospital said that three of the injured people it has received are receiving urgent acute care, including a child.

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Ferry Overdevest, the owner of a flower store in central Mannheim, told CNN that around 30 people had sought shelter in his shop and that ambulances were on the streets outside.

Germany has been rocked by a string of deadly car ramming attacks in recent months.

In December, a vehicle plowed into a Christmas market in Magdeburg, killing six people, including a 9-year-old boy. The suspect is a 50-year-old Saudi citizen who had lived in Germany for more than a decade and worked to help Saudis leave his home country. Social media posts showed he was a fervent critic of Islam.

In February, a person drove a Mini Cooper into demonstrators in Munich, killing a mother and her child and injuring more than 30 others. The suspect is a 24-year-old Afghan man.

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That attack came on the eve of the Munich Security Conference and just days before the countrys federal election, where concerns over immigration and security helped propel the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party to second place.

Mondays incident comes as Germany celebrates Rose Monday, a carnival held before Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent.

German police were already on high alert ahead of the carnival celebrations, but the incident in Mannheim has prompted some forces to take additional measures. Police in Ulm, a city southeast of Mannheim, said they have noticeably increased their presence around carnival events.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Lees Summit, Missouri man is facing charges in connection to an August 2024 shooting in Kansas City that left a 21-year-old man dead.

Jackson County prosecutors last week charged LaRelle Dennis with second-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action.

Raymore man sentenced to 25 years for deadly shooting at Blue Springs park

According to court documents, on Aug. 25, 2024, just before 1:50 a.m., officers with the Kansas City Police Department responded to the area of East 82nd Street and Kenwood Avenue on reports of a shooting.

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Upon arrival, officers began searching for possible victims or a crime scene. While canvassing the area of East 82nd Street and Holmes Road, KCPD found a man, Treshaun Wright, inside a vehicle suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was later pronounced dead at the scene.

Jail records show Dennis is currently not in custody and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.

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No bond has been set at this time.

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U.S. District Judge Dale Ho has a difficult decision to make in the Eric Adams case, which both the defendant and the Trump Justice Department have said they want dismissed. Ahead of his impending decision, a group of former federal judges wrote to Ho suggesting that, given the extreme circumstances in the case, he can appoint a special prosecutor to advance the public interest in justice if the Justice Department refuses to do so.

But despite those extreme circumstances, theres reason to think the Supreme Court could strike down the appointment of a special prosecutor if Ho goes that route. Thats so notwithstanding the ex-judges observation that the DOJs intended dismissal appears to be one half of an improper quid pro quo  the other half being Mayor Adamss agreement to further the administrations immigration policy objectives, which have nothing to do with the charges against Mayor Adams.

To understand why at least some of the justices might have concerns with such an appointment  something that other outside parties have suggested to Ho as well  consider the case of Steven Donziger. It was there that another federal judge in New York appointed a prosecutor to pursue a contempt case against Donziger, after federal prosecutors declined to do so. The Supreme Court declined to take up Donzigers appeal of his conviction in 2023, but Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote a dissent, joined by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, that could reflect broader concerns with any appointment of an Adams prosecutor.

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Who really thinks that the President may choose law clerks for my colleagues, that we can pick White House staff for him, or that either he or we are entitled to select aides for the Speaker of the House? Gorsuch wrote, cautioning future courts weighing whether to appoint their own prosecutors.

To be sure, it was only two justices expressing that view. But the separation of powers concerns animating Gorsuchs dissent are broadly shared by a majority of the court, as we saw, for example, in Chief Justice John Roberts decision in the Trump immunity case last year.

Another thing to consider is that judges authority to appoint special prosecutors (which at least two justices have publicly questioned) has come about in the contempt context, like in the Donziger case. On that note, the former federal judges wrote in their brief that they werent aware of any binding authority for the proposition that the Courts inherent authority to appoint a special prosecutor is limited to the contempt context. But another way to put that is that a courts authority to do so outside of the contempt context is not necessarily established, either. So, to the extent that appointing a special prosecutor in the Adams case could be seen as an expansion of an already suspect authority, then that could give the justices even more pause.

Of course, its possible that the Adams affair will be resolved without Judge Ho grappling one way or the other with whether to appoint a special prosecutor. As it stands now, the latest wrinkle in the case is that Adams asked Ho to dismiss the case with prejudice  meaning permanently  while the DOJ had asked the judge to do so without prejudice (something Adams previously agreed to), which is what raised the quid pro quo concern. Briefs are due Friday from the parties and from a third-party attorney (not a prosecutor) whom Ho appointed to give his views on the subject, due to the lack of an adversarial relationship at the time between Adams and the Justice Department  though, depending on how the DOJ responds to Adams latest bid to get rid of his case forever, then it may become adversarial soon.

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So well see what the parties and the outside lawyer say in their briefs, along with what the judge does in response (he previously said he may hold oral arguments March 14). But among the steps Ho could take, appointing a special prosecutor could be one of the legally riskier ones, even if it seems warranted by the circumstances.

Subscribe to the Deadline: Legal Newsletter for expert analysis on the top legal stories of the week, including updates from the Supreme Court and developments in Donald Trumps legal cases.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Legislation filed Monday requests $750 million for funding new prison construction in Arkansas.

Senator Jonathan Dismang (R-Searcy) filed for the funding via Senate Bill 354. Monday is the final day of the current legislative session for filing appropriation bills.

Franklin County prison plans hit bump after appropriations request fails in committee

The bill comes on the heels of a request for $330 million to construct a Franklin County prison, which the Joint Budget Committee denied last Thursday in a 14-5 vote, one vote shy of the needed majority. Dismang is the chair of that committee.

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Committee members cited the lack of concrete planning as they voted down the allocation. Staffing concerns were also cited.

The Department of Corrections currently has $75 million toward the new 3,000-bed prison. Secretary of Corrections Lindsay Wallace said the $330 million would provide the resources needed to develop a plan.

Group outlines opposition to Franklin County prison plans for Arkansas

SB354 was read on the Senate floor on Monday and assigned to the Joint Budget Committee for a hearing.

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Nvidia reported revenue that barely exceeded Wall Streets expectations, triggering an 8.5% stock slide as investors hoped for more outperformance. But Bank of America said that Nvidia is still a solid investment and raised its price target 5%. Regardless of the DeepSeek drama and Chinese trade implications, the company continues to roll out Blackwell chips that have blown past sales projections.

Analysts from Bank of America still think that Nvidia is a buy and have increased their price target on the stock despite some disappointment from fourth-quarter results.

While Nvidia beat estimates late Wednesday, it wasnt by much, as revenue rose 78% from a year ago to $39.3 billion, edging Wall Streets projection of $38.3 billion. Nvidia also forecasted its first-quarter revenue will come in at about $43 billion, $1 billion above the Streets consensus.

That wasnt enough for investors, who had grown accustomed to blowout numbers from the AI chipmaker, and the stock sold off 8.5% Thursday.

But analysts at Bank of America remained optimistic and moved their stock price target from $190 to $200, representing 53% upside from Wednesdays closing price and a 60% surge from Fridays close.

We reiterate our Buy rating on NVDA as the company remains in a dominant position of leading the AI market towards compute-intensive inference, agentic applications, and physical AI/robotics, BofA said in a note dated Wednesday.

BofA pointed out that Nvidia posted overall strong results despite certain headwinds, such as DeepSeeks release of a large language model that allegedly matched American competitors for a fraction of the costs.

Still, analysts acknowledged investors were disappointed, saying Nvidias first-quarter revenue guidance was only $1 billion more than consensus, whereas in previous quarters the margin reached $2 billion.

Other factors weighing on sentiment include fatigue surrounding overall AI investment amid restrictions on Chinese trade and concerns over return on investment, BofA added.

Another worry is narrower gross margins due to the costs of rolling out the new Blackwell chip. Last March, Nvidia unveiled Blackwell, its most advanced GPU. Production delays stalled the release of the chip until January.

But BofA said Nvidia saw $11 billion in Blackwell sales, exceeding the $4 billion-$7 billion market projections, with analysts expecting very modest upward trends in gross margins and a recovery by the second half of fiscal year 2026.

In fact, Nvidia CFO Colette Kress called Blackwell the fastest product ramp in our companys history.
Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sens. Andrew Zwicker (D-Middlesex), above, and Declan O'Scanlon (D-Monmouth) would codify court-set limits on how non-disparagement and other confidentiality agreements can shield workplace abuses. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor)

New Jersey lawmakers are moving to codify court-set limits on confidentiality agreements that would bar workers from speaking publicly about retaliation, harassment, or discrimination.

The Senate Labor Committee on Monday will weigh whether to extend a state prohibition on non-disclosure agreements to other types of confidentiality agreements that could bar speech about workplace abuses.

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We shouldnt be allowing powerful employers to bully people into not speaking out when speaking out is absolutely the right thing to do and should be their right, said bill sponsor Sen. Declan OScanlon (R-Monmouth).

The move follows a unanimous New Jersey Supreme Court from May on the states existing ban on settlement and contract provisions prohibiting victims from discussing claims of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The court ruled that the ban also extends to non-disparagement agreements.

That statute was enacted in 2019 through amendments to the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination sponsored by former state Sen. Loretta Weinberg (D-Bergen). It bars confidentiality agreements in those circumstances but names only non-disclosure agreements.

The intent of the original Weinberg bill was to address this issue in totality. It didnt, but its a simple fix. Both myself and Senator OScanlon want to ensure there is no possible question of what the legislative intent was, said bill sponsor Sen. Andrew Zwicker (D-Middlesex).

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The absence of non-disparagement and other types of confidentiality agreements drew attention after Neptune Township moved to enforce provisions of its settlement with former police sergeant Christine Savage.

Neptune alleged that, during a 2020 television interview where Savage referred to the townships good ol boy system, she violated non-disparagement provisions of a settlement reached to resolve her claims of gender-based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

A trial court judge agreed with the township, and an appellate panel found the non-disparagement was legal, though they ruled Savage had not run afoul of the settlements confidentiality provisions because her comments repeated already public information and focused on present conduct rather than past conduct. The Supreme Court then sided with Savage.

The Supreme Courts decision means the bill, first introduced in 2022, would change little if it becomes law, though it would at least settle concerns about a future Supreme Court issuing a different interpretation of the statute.

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Court cases can change. I dont think this one will, but the bill was already in the works, and theres no harm in codifying this, OScanlon said.

OScanlon added the bill could serve as a message of support to victims of workplace abuses.

The bill would also remove provisions of existing law that exempt collective bargaining agreements from the prohibition.

Zwicker said that language made it into the original legislation over lawmakers concerns about overstepping into union negotiations.

He noted collective bargaining contracts typically contain similar workplace protections and said lawmakers would consult with counsel to determine whether it is necessary to end the exemption.

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I dont want to carve out a loophole here in any way, but I want to talk to a labor lawyer about that in particular before deciding whether we should keep that or remove it, Zwicker said.

The bill is not expected to face many barriers as it moves through the Legislature. The Senate unanimously approved the 2019 legislation and the Assembly passed that bill in an overwhelming bipartisan vote.

Even the removal of the collective bargaining is unlikely to draw naysayers, OScanlon said.

That would be pretty stunning, if theyre going to come out in the light of day and say, In our contracts, entities should be allowed to bully people and harass them without any accountability, he said. Good luck. Please come out.

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President Donald Trump reaffirmed plans to impose new 25 percent tariffs on all Mexican and Canadian goods beginning Tuesday, likely triggering a trade war with the United States' biggest trading partners.

There is "no room left for Mexico or for Canada" to make a deal to avoid the tariffs, Trump told reporters at the White House. "They're all set. They go into effect tomorrow."

The two countries exported more than $900 billion worth of goods to the United States in 2024, including large amounts of autos and auto parts, agricultural goods and other consumer and industrial products. That equaled about 28 percent of total U.S. goods imports last year.

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U.S. automakers have warned the steep tariffs would disrupt supply chains that they have built in Canada and Mexico over the past 30 years and have urged Trump to exempt any auto or auto part imports that comply with the stringent regional content requirements that his administration included in the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement that was negotiated during his first term in office.

However, Trump gave no indication Monday that he plans to grant any such carve-out. What manufacturers will have to do "is build their car plants, frankly, and other things in the United States, in which case they [will] have no tariffs," he said.

Trump also reaffirmed that he intends to raise his most recent tariff on all Chinese goods. Shortly after the president spoke, the White House released a new executive order amending the tariffs he imposed in February to raise them to 20 percent.

The tariff action culminates months of pressure that Trump has put on all three countries to do more to stop undocumented migrants and fentanyl from entering the United States. The 25 percent tariffs on Canada and Mexico were originally scheduled to take effect in early February, but Trump paused the tariffs for 30 days after speaking with their leaders by phone. That pause expires after midnight Tuesday.

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Trump went ahead with a 10 percent tariff on China on Feb. 4. That was in addition to tariffs he imposed on more than $300 billion worth of Chinese goods during his first term. Trump declined to say Monday how much further he was willing to increase tariffs on Chinese goods, saying that would depend on China's response in addressing his concerns about fentanyl shipments blamed for thousands of U.S. deaths annually.

The Chinese government has already retaliated to Trump's 10 percent tariff increase and, according to a report in the Chinese news outlet Global Times, is eyeing additional tariffs on "US agricultural and food products" in response to the new hike. Both Canada and Mexico have indicated they would retaliate, as well, if Trump's tariffs take effect.

"If they want to try to annihilate Ontario, I will do everything, including cut off their energy, with a smile on my face ... and Im encouraging every other province to do the same," Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Monday during a press conference in Toronto.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, in an interview on CNN on Monday morning, said Canada and Mexico have done a good job at stopping undocumented migrants from entering the United States, but the two countries still need to do more to stop the flow of fentanyl coming across the border.

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The main thing that Mexico and Canada need to do is "get the [drug] cartels to stop sending in fentanyl," Lutnick added.

"He knows they've done a good job on the border. They haven't done enough on fentanyl," Lutnick said, just a few hours before Trump spoke.

Trump also signaled Monday afternoon that more tariffs are on the way beginning in early April, when senior administration officials are expected to provide recommendations on his "reciprocal tariff" plan. That is intended to raise U.S. tariff rates to the levels imposed by other countries, taking into account not just traditional duties but also non-tariff, or regulatory, barriers that foreign countries have against U.S. products.

"Reciprocal tariffs start on April 2," Trump said, joking that he didn't want to do it on April 1, because it's April Fool's Day.

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He also tried to reassure American farmers, who are likely to be one of the first casualties of any retaliatory tariffs from Canada and Mexico as well as China, that his forthcoming tariffs will ultimately help their bottom lines. In a post on Truth Social on Monday addressed to "the Great Farmers of the United States," the president wrote, "Get ready to start making a lot of agricultural product to be sold INSIDE of the United States. Tariffs will go on external product on April 2nd. Have fun!," Trump wrote.

However, the United States produces much more than it can consume in many agricultural sectors and relies on export markets to sell the surplus. In other areas, the United States relies on imports for a steady stream of fruits and vegetables throughout the year.

During the White House event, Trump once again displayed his faith in the power of tariffs to ensure other countries treat the U.S. fairly in trade, even though most economists believe the widespread use of tariffs will raise prices and hurt U.S. economic growth. Financial markets reflected that belief Monday, sinking shortly after Trump affirmed the North American tariffs would kick in this week.

The president, however, maintained that it's other countries that will bear the costs. "They can't come in and steal our money and steal our jobs and take our factories and take our businesses and expect not to be punished  and they're being punished by tariffs."

Tariffs are "a very powerful weapon that politicians haven't used because they were either dishonest, stupid or paid off in some other form," he said.
In a previous letter I suggested that we should be stunned by the damaging actions and nominations President Donald Trump made in his first week. I was so naive. I should have known there was worse to come.

He threatened Canada, Mexico, Greenland and Panama. Then he announced that he would build the Riviera of the Middle East in Gaza. All that needs to happen is ethnic cleansing by deporting all the Palestinians who live there. This nonsense is great recruiting material for Hamas and other terrorist groups.

Co-president Elon Musk was granted extensive access to sensitive U.S. Treasury data with no oversight. That includes Americans personal information, including Social Security numbers and presents the threat that he could discontinue Medicare and Social Security payments.

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Musk has decapitated the U.S. Agency for International Development, which cares for the medical and nutritional needs of millions around the world. How proud we should all be that, on behalf of Americans, the richest man in the world has taken food from the poorest among us. Trumps federal hiring freeze included the people who fight wildfires. Who needs them, right, Pacific Palisades?

Russell Vought has been named director of the Office of Management and Budget. He claims we are in a post-constitutional era in our country and that more power belongs with the president. Does he mean Trump or Musk?Weve seen all this and more too numerous to list. God help all of us.

Donna M. Oaks

Spring Township
An LGBTQ group marched for the first time under its own banner at Staten Islands St. Patricks Day Parade on Sunday in what organizers called a huge day for the queer community.

The parade  the last major local St. Paddys march to have an exclusionary ban on such groups  decided in November to allow the community-based Pride Center of Staten Island to partake in the annual event, now in its 61st year, according to SILive.

Members of the Pride Center of Staten Island march in the boroughs St. Patricks Day Parade for the first time under their own banner Sunday. Michael Nagle

KC Hankins, a 32-year-old organizer in the queer community, was thrilled to see parade officials finally come around.

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After well over a decade of [denying] LGBT people marching in the parade, we are finally allowed, Hankins said. Its a huge day for the queer community to be welcomed in our own community.

This is a consistent effort by queer people on Staten Island to say we belong in our community, and we are going to continuously make it known that we belong.

The parade stepped off at Forest Avenue and Hart Boulevard around 12:30 p.m., and spectators greeted the new participants with overwhelming cheers and applause.

This is just a real win for this community  out here, said Mayor Eric Adams, who marched with the group. Just saying theyre prideful to be Irish, theyre prideful to be a member of the LGBTQ+ community  [its] something we always stood for.

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Their resiliency showed that if you stand up for what is right, youre going to always win, said Hizzoner  who was indicted on bribery charges last year and headed to trial till the Trump White House recently nixed the case against him, at least for now.

Congratulations to all of them and what theyve accomplished, Adams said of the groups inclusion Sunday.

Spectators cheer on the new participants, who fought for years to be included in the event. Michael Nagle

Revelers brave the cold to show their Irish pride at Sundays parade. Michael Nagle

The Staten Island parade has been the lone local anti-LGBTQ holdout for years. The Throggs Neck parade in The Bronx, for example, allowed organized members of the LGBTQ community to march under a banner starting in 2022, and Manhattans mammoth event began permitting them to participate down Fifth Avenue about seven years earlier.

The inclusion in Manhattans parade only came after massive protests that included Guinness pulling its sponsorship and NBC threatening to stop broadcasting the event until organizers changed their tune.

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On Staten Island, the number of participating organizations had dwindled in recent years  likely the result of boycotts and frustration with officials anti-LGBTQ stance, said SILive.

Jodys Club Forest, an Irish bar on Forest Avenue, put the brakes on its traditional political breakfast two years ago in solidarity with the excluded groups.

The November decision appears to have breathed new life into the faltering parade, as 80 groups signed up to walk this year  almost a third more than 2024.

It was the first time in the parades 60-year history that LGBTQ groups could march under their own banner. Michael Nagle

On Sunday, Forest Avenue was packed with revelers as local officials crowded into tiny Jodys, which counted among its Guinness-swilling patrons former GOP mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, city Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker and Staten Island District Attorney Michael McMahon.

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Edward Patterson, the new chair of the Richmond County St. Patricks Day Parade Committee, said he was happy to have the Pride Center marching with us.

Our focus remains on St. Patrick and the culture, traditions, history, and faith of the Irish people, he said. Were proud to have the Pride Center because they are part of the community.

Carol Bullock, the Pride Centers executive director, told SILive beforehand, We are excited.

Its really going to be great.

But the lead-up was not without controversy.

A local Catholic leader made it clear he wasnt onboard with the changes.

When the decision was made to allow members of the Pride Center to participate in the parade, marching under their own banner, I had no choice but to distance the parish from the event and deny the use of the facilities, wrote Bishop Peter Byrne of the Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church in a weekly bulletin last month.

A band marches past Blessed Sacrament Church, where the bishop lashed out at the parade after the November decision to allow LGBTQ participants. Michael Nagle

The Pride Center promotes ideas and practices that blatantly contradict the churchs teaching on chastity, hesaid.

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That is an indisputable fact. [The Pride Centers] presence in the parade signifies that the gathering not only does not promote, but actually undermines, Catholic devotion.

Byrne banned the parade committee from using the parish as a sign-up spot for marchers, as it had in the past.

I am not supporting the parade, therefore the facilities here will not be available, he told SILive.

But even some of Byrnes own parishioners disagreed with his views.

The parades participants had dwindled in recent years, but its numbers grew Sunday with the LGBTQ inclusion. Michael Nagle

As a long-time parishioner, Im embarrassed by this statement, a churchgoer told the outlet. I have no words for how out of touch the bishop is with the community and his own parishioners.

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Another parishioner said, The Jesus I grew up learning about would never write such a divisive letter and make such a judgmental and frankly, gross, statement.

It is not Christ-like at all.

On Sunday, parish priest Father Frank told The Post that the church still let people use the bathrooms during the event and that the disagreement had stemmed from the Churchs teachings.

I hope they understand us also, because that is the stance of the church, he said.

Some onlookers, such as 56-year-old Christine McCord, said she didnt feel it necessary to have the banners fly during the parade.

I guess its a good thing, because were moving forward and including everyone, she said. But I think its not necessary. We dont need to segregate out whos who and whos what, because were supposed to be including everyone.

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Others said they were happy the group was allowed to walk.

The parade was a beautiful celebration, and I am happy they finally let LGBTQ members march today! another woman said. They deserve it! Its been a long time coming. Lets go!
Four bus stops are back open in Little Saigon after King County Metro leaders say violence caused them to shut down.

The four stops closed on December 16 and reopened on March 3. The stops serve seven different bus lines through Little Saigon.

Jeff Switzer with King County Metro said closing the stops curbed violence and trash buildup in the area, but it also inconvenienced many riders who had to walk farther to get to their bus.

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People really like these bus stops, its a hub and an intersection of a lot of services, Switzer said.

He tells us the stops were closed after a streak of violence in the area. Just weeks before the closure, nine people were stabbed across three days near the intersection of 12th Avenue South and South Jackson.

We saw a lot of instability and criminal activity that was occurring at and near the stops in the area, Switzer said. It was hard to get on and off the bus easily.

Nearby business owner Henry Coo tells us the closures helped keep the area safe and they want it to stay that way.

The area is bad, all Seattle people know dont go to Chinatown its too dangerous, we should make it safe for people then more people can come in, Coo said.

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However, bus riders say they love the convenience of these stops.

Im very happy because I was always waiting on the other one instead, but I live right beside here, said one rider.

Switzer said Transit Police are working with Seattle Police and the King County Sheriffs Office to increase patrols in Little Saigon.

People should absolutely contact Metro if they have concerns about stop locations in our community and if its a bigger emergency never hesitate to call 911, Switzer said.

Metro Transit Police Chief Todd Morrell says the Seattle Police Department, the City of Seattle, Metro, and the King County Sheriffs Office were all part of the process to improve safety at the intersection.

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The focus was reinstating service quickly, Morrell said, We all came together and decided we need to have a really cohesive response to this, of which law enforcement is a component.

Morrell expects law enforcement presence to ebb and flow as substantial improvements to safety are seen, and he hopes the prevalence of officers and deputies early on will create a norm of acceptable behavior on the system that will translate throughout the county.

Switzer says the Chinatown-International District should be accessible to everyone, When people have to get off the bus and hike two blocks uphill or downhill, it makes it harder for people with mobility challenges trying to get to the bus.

You can find rider information here: https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro/rider-tools




ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision will be terminating health insurance for correction officers remaining AWOL during the strike.

DOCCS Commander Daniel Martuscello III joined Homeland Security Commissioner Jackie Bray at the press conference. Bray said they will terminate health insurance for thousands of correction officers who have been AWOL and will cancel health insurance for their dependents.

Striking is absolutely illegal for employees and unions that are covered under that law. Thats because our corrections officers, like many of our public sector/public safety staff, are essential employees, and them showing up for work are essential to the state, Bray said.

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Bray is referring to the Taylor Law, which regulates the rights of public employees and their unions  she said the Attorney General is working on civil contempt proceedings against these officers.

Martuscello said a large number of staff continue to strike, adding it is not allowing them to implement the consent award and continue a dialogue with the officers. He said he was able to issue additional policies outside of the agreement.

They said some staff have returned to duty. Facilities no longer on strike include Greenhaven, Fishkill, Shawangunk, Hudson, Taconic, and Sing Sing.

The strike started in February, and it grew over time. This led to Governor Hochul signing an executive order to send the National Guard to these prisons.

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During the strike, officers voiced concerns over extensive overtime shifts and the HALT Act. Even now, officers want the shifts eliminated and the HALT Act to undergo an extensive review. Governor Hochul called the agreement a win for the officers.

Correction officers have a difficult job, let alone being understaffed, said Martuscello. Ive seen firsthand the impact it had on correction officers and their families and I want to make sure that we continue to have this conversation as they play a vital role in public safety in this state.

Martuscello acknowledged these concerns, but he said some of them fell outside the mediation scope due to laws they were unable to change. This led to the consent award being reached.

DOCCS announced over the weekend that it began to fire officers who continued to strike after the deal. Less than 10 corrections officers have been terminated as of Monday morning, according to Bray.

Full Press Conference

You can watch the full press conference in the video player above.

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(NewsNation)  President Donald Trump announced Monday that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. will be making a $100 billion investment in chip manufacturing in the U.S over the next four years.

That is on top of a previous $65 billion investment from the company. Most of the facilities are expected to be built in Arizona.

The announcement comes just ahead of Trumps first address to Congress in his second term.

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Senior USAID official ousted after sending memo on lifesaving aid

The president took questions from reporters, saying there was no room for Mexico and Canada to prevent upcoming tariffs from taking place and reiterated his belief that tariffs would be beneficial.

Many economists say the steep tariffs on trading partners will increase inflation and raise the price of goods for consumers already feeling stretched economically.

When questioned about Ukraine, Trump said he had not yet considered whether he would cut military aid to the country and denied that he was aligning with Russias foreign policy goals.

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The president is dealing with the aftermath of a heated exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week. The two got into a shouting match during an Oval Office photo op, an unprecedented clash in front of media.

Youll have to pay taxes on some Venmo, CashApp funds soon

Trump has signaled he is not ready to make amends with Zelenskyy and could withdraw U.S. support for Ukraine as the country continues to defend itself against Russia. European leaders have come out in support of Zelenskyy, making it possible they will step in to try to fill the gap.

When asked what could be done to mend the relationship, Trump again accused Zelenskyy of not being appreciative enough of the help his country has received.

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SCARBOROUGH, Maine (AP) 

A group of lobster fishermen can sue one of the worlds largest seafood watchdog groups for defamation, a federal court has ruled, over a report that described Maine lobster as an unwise choice for consumers.

The threat to a rare whale species from getting tangled in fishing gear has prompted Monterey Bay Aquarium in California to caution against eating a variety of lobster that New England fishermen have harvested for centuries.

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Seafood Watch, a conservation program operated by the aquarium, placed lobster from the U.S. and Canada on its do-not-eat red list in 2022. Some retailers pulled lobster from stores after the recommendation.

Judge John Woodcock ruled last month that the fishermen made a case that they suffered damage to their industry's reputation as a result of the red-listing, after the aquarium made a bid in U.S. District Court in Maine to have the 2023 lawsuit tossed. A spokesperson for the aquarium said Monday the institution filed an appeal, but Woodcock's ruling means the lawsuit is moving forward.

Reputation and goodwill cannot be adequately replaced through awarding damages and this injury lingers as long as the red listing does, Woodcock wrote.

The lobster industry, based largely in Maine, is one of the most lucrative fisheries in the U.S., valued at more than half a billion dollars at the docks last year. Entanglement in lobster gear is also one of the most significant threats to the North Atlantic right whale, which numbers less than 400.

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The aquarium has a right to communicate its recommendations to the public, said Emerson Brown, the spokesperson for the aquarium. Brown said the aquarium appealed "to protect our ability to share critical information with the public.

The Maine Lobstermen's Association, one of the groups that filed the lawsuit, described Woodcock's decision as significant in a statement.

Maine lobstermen have been stewards of the ocean for generations, and we are committed to defending our livelihood against baseless claims," said Patrice McCarron, executive director of the association.
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) After months of uncertainty, the oldest Boy Scout troop in the Wichita Falls area receives good news about their home.

Since 1978, Troop 1 has met in a building owned by the Floral Heights Methodist Church. After the church closed its doors in 2024, the troop was in danger of losing its long-time home.

A recent donation from First United Methodist and University United Methodist is giving the troop an opportunity for future stability. Their donation makes the troop the new owners of the building theyve called home for almost 40 years.

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For Scoutmaster John Cook, who was a part of the troop in his youth, the donation allows the troop to grow so future generations can be a part of something like he was.

We have our Eagle Scout wall back there. So, we have generations, families who come in and, you know, the dad will be up there and then his sons will join the troop and several generations of families on the wall, Cook said. And so, its that tradition that people like, and with that stability, that tradition can continue.

Along with the donation, reverends John McLarty and Zack Landis made a joint statement on behalf of both of their churches.

By ensuring troop 1 remains anchored in floral heights, we are not only preserving history, but also fostering growth, stability and opportunity for the next generation.

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Both McLarty and Landis will officially present the deed to the building during Troop 1s weekly meeting on March 4th.

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CARTER COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL)Local fire departments are prepared to assist one another as strong winds and dry weather conditions threaten multiple fires across the region.

Lindsey Presley with the Fall Branch Volunteer Fire Department said it assisted the Sullivan West Volunteer Fire Department in a Friday brush fire on Lonestar Road in Kingsport.

Elizabethton Fire Department Chief Barry Carrier said his department responded to a grass fire at a local business on Saturday. He said the fire was likely started by a cigarette thrown on the ground.

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THP: 2 dead after Carter County crash

Carrier said the wind played a factor.

Elizabethton Fire Department

Elizabethton Fire Department

On Sunday, the Hampton Valley Forge Fire Department assisted the Elizabethton Fire Department after a fire inched its way to a residence in Carter County.

Chief Barry Carrier said the fire burned the steps of the residence and about half an acre of land before it was contained. No injuries were reported.

Carrier said the fire was affected by high winds and extreme low humidity.

The Elizabethton/Carter County Emergency Management Agency reminded residents in a social media post that permits are required to burn between Oct. 15 and May 15. Permits can be obtained here on the Tennessee Division of Forestry website.

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Justin Sullivan / Staff / Getty Images





Key Takeaways

Nvidia shares slid Monday, extending last weeks post-earnings losses amid concerns about AI spending and the potential impact of policies on tariffs and AI chip export restrictions.

The Trump administration is reportedly seeking to tighten chip export curbs, with new tariffs set to take effect Tuesday.

Analysts have largely remained bullish on Nvidia's stock, with Mizuho analysts saying they expect headwinds from China and AI chip restrictions to "remain muted."







Nvidia (NVDA) shares slid Monday, extending last weeks post-earnings losses amid concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) spending and uncertainty about the potential impact of policies on tariffs and AI chip export restrictions.

Shares of Nvidia were down about 9% on Monday, sliding further after falling about 7% last week and leaving them down about 15% this year amid a sputtering AI trade.

Mizuho analysts warned clients Friday that Nvidia could potentially face "significant new China AI and export license restrictions," based on industry checks. Mizuho estimated that could mean a revenue hit to the tune of $4 billion to $6 billion for the AI chipmaker in the second half of the year.

The comments come days after reports the Trump administration is seeking to tighten chip export curbs. President Trump on Monday indicated that tariffs against products from Canada and Mexico would go into effect Tuesday, along with the doubling of an existing tariff on goods from China.

Analysts have so far largely remained bullish on Nvidia's stock, pointing to the chipmaker's strong outlook on the back of growing AI demand. Mizuho analysts said they expect the impacts of headwinds from China and AI chip restrictions to "remain muted."

The average price target of the 19 analysts covering the stock polled by Visible Alpha is about $177, suggesting more than 50% upside from Monday's close.

This article has been updated to reflect new share-price information and context.

Read the original article on Investopedia
BOSTON (SHNS)  The Trump administrations ongoing push to trim back the federal workforce and spending is continuing to raise angst, with recent rounds of cuts drawing the ire of a leading local veterans organization and the New England Aquarium.

Veterans and advocates from the Massachusetts chapter of Veterans of Foreign Wars are heading to Washington, D.C., this week to meet with the states congressional delegation. The group said it wants to hear from Bay State veterans and their families so they can provide lawmakers with evidence of the impacts they say recent Department of Veterans Affairs firings are having on people who served in the countrys military.

The VFW said it has concerns about continuity of care, efficiency in processing benefits and the overall morale of veterans given cuts made at the VA, including facilities in Massachusetts. The group said its members worry that the sudden staffing changes could lead to longer waiting times for services, disruptions in medical treatment, and delays in disability and pension claims, all longstanding issues that veterans groups and the VA have been working to address.

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Our veterans have sacrificed so much for this country, and they deserve a VA system that is stable, reliable, and fully staffed with experienced professionals, Jody Freitas, Massachusetts VFW state commander, said. Sudden firings without clear explanations or transition plans risk undoing years of progress.

The cuts are part of an effort led by the richest man in the world, Elon Musk, and the new U.S. Department of Government Efficiency to shrink the federal workforce and bureaucracy, and to align federal spending with President Donald Trumps political agenda.

In mid-February, the VA announced that it had dismissed more than 1,000 employees to save about $98 million annually that it said could be directed back towards veteran care. At the end of the month, the VA announced that another 1,400 employees were dismissed to save an annual $83 million. The VA said its cuts were part of the government-wide Trump Administration effort to make agencies more efficient, effective and responsive to the American People.

These and other recent personnel decisions are extraordinarily difficult, but VA is focused on allocating its resources to help as many Veterans, families, caregivers, and survivors as possible, VA Secretary Doug Collins said, pledging information on how the savings are utilized in the coming months. These moves will not hurt VA health care, benefits or beneficiaries. In fact, Veterans are going to notice a change for the better.

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Last week, the Associated Press reported that the VA had temporarily suspended the cancellation of nearly $2 billion worth of contracts as veterans advocacy organizations and lawmakers raised concerns that the move would jeopardize services for veterans.

A rally was planned for Monday morning outside the Maryland headquarters of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, where hundreds of employees on probationary status were fired and hundreds more resigned last week. The AP report estimated the cut of about 1,300 employees represented roughly 10% of the agency staff.

Meteorologists who rely on NOAAs data and research for weather-forecasting and entities that rely on NOAAs research program have spoken out about the cuts to the science-focused agency. The head of the New England Aquarium said the marine science and management that NOAA provides for New England and the rest of the country are essential to maintaining a healthy ocean, which sustains life on Earth and a thriving blue economy.

The New England Aquarium has worked closely with NOAA for decades and deeply values their far-reaching expertise along with their partnership in our scientific research and conservation work to safeguard marine species and habitats, aquarium President and CEO Vikki Spruill said. A healthy ocean and a habitable planet need scientists, the government, and private industry to work together to address threats the ocean faces for the future of our planet.

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The Project 2025 plan, a 900-plus page blueprint for governing produced by conservative groups and dismissed by Trump during last years campaign, called for NOAA to be broken up and downsized and said it was one of the main drivers of the climate change alarm industry and, as such, is harmful to future U.S. prosperity. Some of the plans authors are now in leading roles in the Trump administration.

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SANDUSKY, Ohio (WJW)  A grand jury has returned a multi-count indictment against a man who was arrested for a womans death in Sandusky last month.

Police arrested Toldrick Griffin Jr. on Feb. 10, after a woman was found dead in a bed inside a home on Perry Street.

Woman injured during overnight police chase: EMS

Toldrick Griffin Jr.

According to the indictment, Griffin faces 3 counts of murder, including a murder charge for an unborn child.

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Did purposely cause the unlawful termination of pregnancy, the indictment reads.

Hes also charged with felony assault for causing serious physical harm to the victim in the days prior to her death.

Man killed in Cleveland crash identified

According to the I-Team, Griffin told police he and the woman were involved in an argument on the day her body was found.

The woman has not been identified.

Toldrick is also charged with tampering with evidence and obstruction of justice.

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Theres a renewed effort to repeal a 35-year-old Florida law that blocks access to the courts for families of certain people who die of medical malpractice, and this year it appears to be on the fast track in the Florida Legislature.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

Fleming Island native Taylor Jenkins had just turned 25 when her car was rear ended in March of 2023.

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After being rushed to a trauma center, her mother Cindy Jenkins, told Action News Jax Taylor was misdiagnosed with a brain injury.

She said even after doctors realized Taylor was bleeding internally, it took six hours to get her to surgery.

But at that point it was too late.

When she came out of surgery the trauma surgeon documented there were no signs of brain stem function, said Jenkins.

When Jenkins tried to hold the hospital accountable for medical negligence, she learned it wasnt possible due to a carveout in state law.

Floridas so-called Free Kill is the only one of its kind in the nation.

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The law prohibits adult children over the age of 25 from suing for pain and suffering damages on behalf of their single adult parent in cases of medical negligence resulting in death.

Similarly, as in Jenkins case, parents are unable to sue on behalf of their adult children over the age of 25.

My path to justice is completely blocked. My child is a free kill in the State of Florida, said Jenkins.

There have been efforts to repeal the carveout for years, but time and time again those efforts have failed.

This year at least three separate repealer bills have been filed.

State Senator Clay Yarborough (R-Jacksonville) is leading the charge in the Florida Senate.

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<State Senator Clay Yarborough (1:00:57-1:01:02) R-Jacksonville>

It shouldnt matter on the accountability side how old you are, whether youre married or how old your kids are.

Yarborough also tried to repeal the law last year, but the legislation was derailed after an amendment was added that would have placed caps on pain and suffering damages for all malpractice cases.

But this year hes hopeful a clean repeal can make it across the finish line.

If there are changes that some want to make, if we have enough support we can do it. If not, well try this avenue and see if we can do the clean repeal without caps, said Yarborough.

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Jenkins is cautiously optimistic, especially given Yarboroughs bill is scheduled for its first hearing on the first official day of the 2025 session.

The House bill is scheduled for its first hearing this Wednesday.

I cant bring Taylor back. I cant change my familys reality, but I want the day to come where no other person loses a loved one in a Florida hospital and sets out in their deepest grief you can ever imagine to make sure the responsible physicians are held accountable, only to find out they have no path to hold them accountable, said Jenkins.

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NEW PHILADELPHIA, Ohio (WJW)  New Philadelphia police said they arrested a teenager who posted a threat of school violence.

The 15-year-old, who attends New Philadelphia High School, posted a threat to the school on a private social media story, according to police.

Woman injured during overnight police chase: EMS

New Philadelphia police said they were made aware of the threat at about 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, by the Ohio Statewide Terrorism Analysis and Crime Center with the Ohio State Highway Patrol. According to a press release, the threat of violence was for Monday, March 3.

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Police said the teen was taken into custody at his home without incident.

The Tuscarawas County Prosecutors Office will decide on charges.

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LANSING, Mich.(WLNS)  After the heated exchange between the American and Ukrainian presidents, many Ukrainian supporters are left worried about where the two countries stand and what will happen next.

After Russia invaded Ukraine back in 2022, Okemos resident and longtime advocate of Ukraine, Ody Norkin, swung into action.

Weve delivered ambulances, and medical equipment, and medical supplies, said Norkin.

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He says he gained support from the East Lansing Rotary Club and the Jewish Federation of Lansing.

Norkin says he was able to help an untold number of Ukrainians along the way.

After President Zelenskyys recent visit to the U.S., Norkin says the meeting was horrible.

I never thought Id see the day where world leaders would meet in such a despicable fashion, said Norkin.

He says hes worried about the relationship between the two nations.

I hope we dont abandon the Ukrainians who have been our allies now for so long, said Norkin.

He says he feels like some people are trying to rewrite history.

How suggest this fictional theory that Zelesnkyys not an elected official, said Norkin. Not an elected president.

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Norkin says Zelenskyy was trying to set the record straight during the meeting, and that heated argument struck fear overseas.

Theres outright fear that I have not seen since February of 2022. We have a reservation system thats based in Tallinn, Estonia, said Norkin. They are too, they are fearful that Russia will overrun the Balkan states and my counterparts in Schwerin, Germany. They too were in shock.

Norkin says he hopes U.S. representatives and Senators will step up and support Democracy in Ukraine.

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GOSHEN  Just days after the historic meeting between United States President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy went awry, Goshens Ukrainian population began their fundraising sale of Pysanky with large public support.

We pray to God that he resolves this issue and that he brings the peace that they can work well together, said priest of the parish Andreii Vatrych. Because I dont think its the way its supposed to be. We realize that we dont have to attack each other and argue with each other when we have a common enemy who is not going to listen to anybody and just wants to do what he wants to do. (Putin) doesnt listen to Trump and he doesnt care.

Just over three years ago, Russia invaded Ukraine in a major escalation of the Russo-Ukrainian War, which had started in 2014, although at the time, the two countries had signed peace agreements that were never fully implemented.

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Thus far, the conflict has been the largest and deadliest in Europe since World War II and has created Europes largest refugee crisis since that time also.

Zina Lucenko was one of those Ukrainian WWII refugees after her familys home was burned to the ground by the Soviet Union when she was just four years old.

That was a long time ago, Lucenko said. Her father ran away with the three sisters, his wife and Lucenkos grandmothers in a late night carriage ride to Germany, where they remained with French families along with other refugee families, separated and working for the families offering shelter, until the end of the war.

Things like that you remember, Lucenko said. The bombing, our house burning, my mother just took a couple things.

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Lucenko recalled vividly her life in Germany  she helped her sister living in another household get food when the family she lived with didnt give her enough food, and eventually the family was made whole again after the war, staying in barracks through the Red Cross until they were forced out in 1948 and went to Brazil. Lucenko struggled in school because she didnt speak Portuguese at eight years old and they put her in kindergarten. Lucenko refused to attend school with kids so much younger than her and began a profession as a beautician with help from her sister who secretly saved money to finance her education.

Her father helped her open her own business by the time she was just 16 and it was around that time she met her future husband at church. But then her family decided to go to America when she was 21, so the family, including their husbands, upended their lives once again and moved to Brooklyn. After experiencing the school system in the big city, Lucenko, her husband and their three children finally made their way to Indiana.

I have American citizenship, I like America, I love everything, but I am Ukrainian. I was born there, my blood is Ukrainian. I have parents who are Ukrainian, Lucenko said. I love this country because this country has given us a lot and Im very proud I was able to work enough to educate my kids. All my kids have high education and I have a nice house in Goshen and I am very comfortable. America, most of the people came from some place. If you were born here its different  like my kids, theyre American because they were born here  but me? I was not, how can I say Im American? I love this place, but Im still Ukrainian.

On Friday, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy met with President Trump and others to potentially sign a mineral agreement deal in exchange for peace between Russia and Ukraine.

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The Ukrainian president came to say thank you, Lucenko said. Biden, those three or four years, he was helping a lot, and since Trump started, he wants something in return. Millions of people died. All of the houses in ruin, and Trump wants something from Ukraine because Biden sent all the help that Ukraine has. OK, so the Ukrainian president came here because they have something in the soil, some aluminum or some very expensive things they want to give to America in return for Americas help but Trump is very good friend with Putin, with Russia companies

Ukranians never attacked Russia. They fight here on their own soil. The Russians come, they defend themselves, but never they went to fight in Russia. They demolished Ukraine. Its ruined, but Trump said Why you dont come dressed up for the meeting? Why you dont come dressed in a suit and a tie? He said I am in a war. Im dressing like our soldiers. I dont want to be better than my soldiers... And then start You dont say thank you enough, attacking, attacking, and finally he got up and went.

Lucenko said other European nations, however, have been more supportive.

Vatrych and Lucenko were both unclear on what minerals might be up for grabs in Trumps negotiations with Ukraine and Russia, but said that for them, minerals are the least of the problems facing Ukraine.

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Even if they sign it, Putins not going to just stop attacking because they signed a document that says America is going to have 50% of the minerals, Vatrych said. If that would stop him that would be good, but its not going to because 29 times or more he has broke those agreements.

The White House meeting went south quickly, ending before the scheduled dine-in lunch, and spouting a myriad of opinions worldwide about the leaders involved and their motives.

It just looked so sad, when they started fighting and aggressing towards each other, Vatrych said. My thoughts were that its not supposed to be that way, maybe that Zelenskyy  you have to understand  hes not born in politics, he sometimes does not know how to behave but he was honest and he was trying to be honest with the president and he just asks if there is a solution for peace, If you have any plan for that, and he got just anger and Youre not thankful to America or something like that, but its not true because all Ukrainians, they are very thankful to Americans and each American helps a lot.

Vatrych said that on social media, Zelenskyy is saying that hes grateful to the United States for their support in the war, and that hes ready to come back to discuss a plan for peace whenever United States officials are ready to talk again.

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Vatrych is serving his first year as priest at the church in Goshen, and its his sixth year in the United States. He said that Ukraine and Russia live closely, like brothers, and Ukraine gave up its weapons in order to ensure peace, but thats not what happened.

We didnt want to repeat the second world war when a lot of people died and the country which swore to protect Ukraine, its attacking and saying that Ukraine wanted to attack when we didnt have (an) army, it just doesnt make sense, Vatrych said. The one who attacks, he is guilty of the war. Europe knows that hes not going to stop if he conquers Ukraine.

Vatrych said ethnically Ukrainians and Russia live on both sides of the border and maintain their traditions even after decades of living displaced as a community.

Lucenko, who has family still in Ukraine like Vatrych, said shes concerned about her homeland, but still hopeful.

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Maybe it will work out somehow, not with America, but maybe if he (Zelenskyy) went through other countries, Lucenko said.

The Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 61314 C.R. 21, Goshen, will continue its fundraising sale of Pysanky  Ukrainian Easter eggs from Lviv, Ukraine  every Sunday through April 6, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in the church hall behind the chapel. Sales support volunteer-based charity UCARE (Ukrainian Child Aid & Relief Effort), an organization that helps orphaned children in Ukraine.
Snow-capped Mount Taylor photographed by Cibola National Forest staff in 2012. According to a meeting recording obtained by Source New Mexico, forest leaders have listed two long-dormant uranium mines near the mountain as "priority projects," part of President Trump's push to increase domestic energy production. (Photo Courtesy Cibola NF)

The leader of the Cibola National Forest told Forest Service employees at a staff meeting Wednesday that the agency would be refocusing on mission critical areas like uranium mining, according to a recording of the meeting Source New Mexico obtained. Officials also told staff that 15 employees had been fired.

The virtual all-hands meeting with more than 100 employees laid bare the confusion and concerns among rank-and-file members amid a flurry of presidential executive orders; mass firings of probationary employees; and mixed signals from President Donald Trump and his newly confirmed United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

During the Wednesday meeting, Forest Supervisor Heidi McRoberts and other forest leaders also told employees:

Top USDA officials had conducted a review of agency-wide contracts and agreements that arent consistent with Trump executive orders, including Diversity, Equity and Inclusion but also collaboration, facilitation, leadership, development  those types of things, McRoberts said.

A new review is occurring now seeking references to climate change

All media and public information requests, including requests from members of Congress, need to be sent up the chain to Washington for responses. Just remember that were representing our position as an employee and the agency, and people are listening, she said.

All contracts, grants and agreements  which can range from archeological surveys to road maintenance  are currently paused except for specific items like health, safety and janitorial. Officials are establishing a process to resume them.

In the meantime, Mexican Spotted Owl surveys required for the Endangered Species Act are among the projects hanging in the balance, an employee said at the meeting.

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The Cibola National Forest and Grasslands is nearly 2 million acres, most of which falls in New Mexico but also spills into western Oklahoma and northern Texas. It contains four ranger districts, including the Sandia Mountains overlooking Albuquerque, and Mount Taylor, one of four sacred mountains to the Navajo people.

The area around Mount Taylor is where uranium mining could resume again, forest leaders said at the meeting. McRoberts cited recent executive orders as a mandate falling on her and those she oversees.

Cibola Forest officials did not respond to questions from Source regarding the announcements made at the Feb. 26 date meeting.

If you read some of those executive orders on energy, they talk about uranium mining, she told staff. We have some pretty big projects on the Cibola that fall in that category, so those will be priority projects.

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Later on in the meeting, Deputy Forest Supervisor Yolynda Begay told employees the Roca Honda and La Jara Mesa uranium mine projects would be placed into a new planning bucket for administrative priorities. Both projects have been pending for more than a decade.

If either project goes forward, they would be the first new uranium mine permitted to operate in New Mexico in at least 50 years. No uranium mine currently operates in New Mexico.

The mines would be built close to the Navajo Nation, which bans uranium mining, and within a short drive of Cold War-era mine sites, Church Rock and Red Water Pond, that destroyed the environment and sickened generations of Indigenous people and New Mexicans.

The mines

Groups that have opposed the mine projects for years told Source New Mexico in interviews this weekend that even as Forest Service priorities, any real movement would take at least a year, given the lengthy requirements for federal environmental review.

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Energy Fuels, the company seeking to build Roca Honda Mine, would build two mineshafts into Artesian aquifers overlying the uranium ore. The dewatering process would displace billions of gallons and deplete the aquifer neighbors rely on, said Susan Gordon, coordinator of the Multicultural Alliance for a Safe Environment.

New Mexico is in a drought, so the idea of trying to dewater that mine, she said. It would be sucking billions of gallons of water out just to make a shaft there.

That displaced water could be contaminated with heavy metals or exposed to radiation, and therefore unavailable for beneficial use, according to Eric Jantz, legal director with the New Mexico Environmental Law Center.

Laramide Resources La Jara Mesa, while not a wet mine like Roca Honda, could still potentially impact groundwater, and waste would be buried on site. Its been demonstrated time and time again that those earthen caps tend to erode and disintegrate after 20 years, Jantz said.

The state can exert some power over water discharge permits and other environmental regulations. Senate Bills 21 and 22 would give the state additional power over surface water protections, even if the mine were built entirely on Cibola National Forest land, Jantz noted.

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The volatile nature of the uranium market and the potential profitability of the ventures factor into whether the companies will push forward with either mine, experts told Source.

Despite the regulatory and financial hurdles, mine opponents said it was troubling that the Forest Service would embrace the projects.

This isnt unexpected, I guess, Jantz said about the mines being prioritized. Its still a little jarring to hear it out loud.

The Forest Service completed draft environmental impact statements for both mines more than a decade ago, but wont select a preferred option until it issues a Final Environmental Impact Statement. And its not official until it enters a Record of Decision, the final step of the National Environmental Policy Act.

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Both draft statements, coming during President Barack Obamas second term, cited impacts to the environment and culture and the legacy of uranium mining in the area, even though they didnt select a preferred option, which can be no action. The Roca Honda statement said, even with recommended mitigation measures, the mine would significantly impact cultural and historic resources, environmental justice, human health and safety, and legacy issues.

Because its been so long for both draft statements, Jantz said its necessary to collect new data and perform another round of monitoring to ensure the review is not outdated.

I dont think that its possible for them, legitimately, to rely on the draft EIS that either of these mines have produced so far, he said. Now that said, Lord only knows what NEPA is going to look like in a year. So, well see.

This is a family

In addition to discussing new priorities for the agency, management also broke down federal firings at Cibola in response to questions from attendees.

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Can you tell us how many people we actually lost across this entire Cibola? one asked. And is there any way that we can find out who all we lost, or what capacities we lost? Because I feel very in the dark about it.

Staff learned 15 employees were fired, primarily ones who maintained recreational and camping sites. An unspecified number of employees opted for deferred resignation.

Are you an employee or former employee at Cibola National Forest or other national forests in New Mexico? Reach out to reporter Patrick Lohmann securely on Signal at Plohmann.61 or by using this link.

The USDA is recruiting wildlife biologists and geographical information specialists at the Forest Service to help fight bird flu, including operations around wildlife, biosecurity and then inspecting facilities, Forest Supervisor Heidi McRoberts said.

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During the meeting, Deputy Forest Supervisor Begay noted that hazardous fuels reduction and prescribed burns remain mission critical priorities, which is why two forest specialists handling timber had been rehired after being briefly fired.

We know that some programs have taken a bigger hit, and theres probably higher priorities for other programs, she said. And so we just want to be able to also acknowledge that as we go through the next phases, of really thinking about our program of work and how we strategically align ourselves to the nuance and the changes in the situation that we have right now.

Attendees also were told they should download their personnel files and other information onto a private hard drive, in anticipation of possible abrupt firings in the future.

Another employee asked supervisors how they could help those who lost their jobs.

I would ask if [forest leaders] know of any way to help those employees, to let us know as a forest, because, to me, this is a family, the employee said.
SB 528 would require pollsters to disclose their sponsors. (Stock photo by Yin Yang/Getty Images)

When Florida lawmakers return to Tallahassee Tuesday for the start of the 60-day regular legislative session, theyre expected to address a number of election and voting issues.

Perhaps the biggest will be a set of proposals already put forward by Gov. Ron DeSantis that he insists are required to reform the petition gathering process for constitutional amendments.

Sen. Blaise Ingoglia via Florida House

Many of those proposals are now included in a bill by Spring Hill Republican Blaise Ingoglia, one of the governors closest allies in the Senate. His legislation (SB 1414) includes a number of provisions on that front, including:

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Eliminating third-party collection of petition forms and replacing it with the same verification measures used in vote-by-mail.

Requiring proposed amendments by petition to define terms of art (such as healthcare provider).

Requiring the attorney general to identify provisions in Florida Constitution or law that may be repealed in full or in part.

Prohibiting any foreign national from funding political parties, candidates, or constitutional amendments.

Mandating that election results undergo a full audit of every vote cast before election certification to ensure accuracy.

A similar proposal (HB 1205) has been filed by Lee County Republican Jenna Persons-Mulicka in the House.

Vote-by-mail requests down

Florida election supervisors have their own slate of proposals, as they articulated in an appearance before the Senate Ethics & Elections Committee in early February. Some of those proposals havent found their way into proposed legislation at the moment.

One of those items is that they want legislation to address a problem surfacing right now in Floridas 1st and 6th Congressional Districts, where special elections are set for April 1.

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The concern has to do with a measure passed in 2021 that requires voters to renew their vote-by-mail (VBM) ballot requests every two years instead of every four years, as previously was the law. That resulted in a statewide decrease in VBM requests in the 2024 election cycle, the first election year the measure was in effect, and its really being felt this winter in those two special congressional elections.

Dave Ramba, executive director of the Florida Supervisors of Elections (FSE), produced a pie chart to that Senate committee showing 98,343 requests for vote-by-mail ballots in last years general election in District 1, when Matt Gaetz easily won re-election. He compared that to just 12,392 requests for vote-by-mail ballots in the special primary election held in late January.

These voters three months ago were seeing vote-by-mail ballots for the November election, Ramba said. Weve gotten a lot of complaints about people [asking], Why didnt I receive one in January? Three months ago, I got one for the presidential  now were doing a congressional special and were now off the list automatically.

Other requests by the supervisors include:

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Require U.S. citizens recently naturalized to obtain or update drivers license information within 30 days of naturalization.

Align base pay for all constitutional officers, including supervisors of elections, clerks of the circuit courts, and property appraisers, with the pay raises for tax collectors and superintendents of schools approved during last years legislative session.

Exempt from public records personal information about election workers as part of Critical Infrastructure Assets.

Allow additional flexibility for designating early voting sites when the main office or other governmental offices are not practicable for serving voters.

Tina Polsky via Florida Senate

That last request has been placed in bill form by South Florida Democratic Sen. Tina Polsky (SB 1486) in what she is calling The Disaster-Affected Voter Bill of Rights, which would address problems in communities facing an election after a natural disaster hits. A similar measure has been introduced in the House by Pinellas County Democrat Lindsay Cross (HB 1317).

Among the provisions are allowing a supervisor of elections to request that vote-by-mail ballots be sent to temporary addresses where evacuees are staying, rather than having to submit a signed statewide form; letting the U.S. Postal Service forward ballots; allow early voting 15 days before the election through Election Day; deploy mobile polling locations; assign additional early voting sites; offer intake stations beyond early voting hours; and hold ballots at local offices if the post office is out of action.

Voting integrity bills on the table

Miami-Dade County Republican state Sen. Ileana Garcia has filed several bills that look likely to win support from voting integrity groups that have swarmed state legislatures around the country following the 2020 presidential election.

Ileana Garcia via Florida Senate

SB 390 would require a law enforcement officer to transport ballot boxes from a supervisor of elections office to a specific voting precinct, and mandate that they remain under the supervision of a law enforcement officer at all times until delivered back to the supervisor. Garcia has said publicly that her motivation was a video depicting an individual trying to crack open a rental truck transporting mail ballots in the days ahead of the 2022 midterm election.

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SB 394 would create an Election Technology Advisory Board to oversee voting security standards and centralize development and manufacturing of voting systems used in Florida by companies based in the United States. It calls for any software developments and maintenance of voting systems to be done only the U.S. and performed only by U.S. citizens.

It also would require that a full supply chain analysis be conducted on all hardware and software to ensure that they are produced and developed in the United States.

SB 396 would require the Department of State to adopt stricter security and chain of custody oversight of ballots; authorize political action committees and political committees to station poll watchers in polling rooms and early voting areas; require audits following each election; require that a person requesting a vote-by-mail ballot attest to an allowed reason for such request; require a supervisor of elections to verify a certificate signature, a voter certificate envelope, and ballot material in a specified manner.

Garcia has also filed SB 1330, which includes a tightening of the voter registration process.

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Two House Republicans have filed comprehensive election reform bills.

Volusia County Republican Webster Barnabys version (HB 1203) encompasses provisions relating to election systems, election security, drop boxes, and other vote-by-mail issues.

Persons-Mulicka via Florida House

A Persons-Mulicka bill (HB 1381) gives the Office of Election Crimes and Security subpoena power; requires supervisors of elections to re-register a voter who was previously registered but fell off the rolls within seven days unless they receive information that the voter is ineligible; lays out specific rules for poll watchers; says that a voter must initiate the request for a vote-by-mail form from the supervisor of elections.

Her bill also requires supervisors of elections to designate a number of early-voting sites that can be no less than the number in the previous general election; says that any mail forwarding delivery service may not further forward any voters official vote-by-mail ballot or envelope that has been delivered to the services address, with anyone who willfully violates that as being guilty of a third-degree felony; increases penalties to political parties, candidates, committees, or organizations created to support a ballot initiative from a foreign national.

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Northeastern Republican Dean Black has filed a bill (HB 1249) that includes provisions regarding qualifications of a political candidate; legal challenges to qualifications, and the use of disclaimers enclosed in voter guides.

Another election integrity-themed bill comes from Pinellas County Republican Berny Jacques and East Coast Republican Chase Tremont in the House. Their proposal (HB 831) would ensure that only U.S. citizens can vote by strengthening voter eligibility verification by requiring state-issued IDs to clearly mark noncitizen status and mandating election officials use all verifiable data to verify citizenship.

Fort Myers Republican state Sen. Jonathan Martin has filed a bill (SB 1098) establishing that a drop box for vote-by-mail ballots may only be made available during early voting hours or during normal office hours.

And Ingoglia and Panhandle Republican House member Michelle Salzman have filed resolutions in their respective chambers to allow Florida voters to amend the state Constitution to place term limits on school board members and county commissioners. The proposals would limit those public officials to two four-year terms, or eight years overall.

A central information database for returning citizens

Democrats are also filing election bills ahead of the session.

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One measure sponsored by South Florida Democrats Felicia Robinson in the House (HB 489) and Tina Polsky in the Senate (SB 848) would require the Florida Commission on Offender Review to develop and maintain a central database for people who have been disqualified from voting based on felony convictions. The database would provide individuals with information regarding any remaining restitution owed to a victim as ordered by a court as part of their sentence, and any remaining fines or fees initially as ordered by the court, as well.

This is legislation that voting rights advocates and Democrats have been pleading for since the passage of Amendment 4 in 2018, which allowed formerly incarcerated felons (returning citizens) who had completed their sentences to have their voting rights restored. The GOP-controlled Legislature threw a curveball into the implementation of that measure during the 2019 session when they required those individuals to pay all legal financial obligations, which dramatically lowered the pool of eligible voters. The fact that the state has never created such a central database has led to confusion.

Lori Berman via Florida Senate

Palm Beach County Democratic Sen. Lori Berman has filed legislation (SB 72) that would allow candidates to spend campaign funds for campaign-related childhood expenses if the expense derives from the candidates campaigns. The measure has already been passed unanimously in one committee (a companion bill has been filed in the House by Sarasota Republican Fiona McFarland and Palm Beach Democrat Kelly Skidmore).

Polsky (SB 1634)and Palm Beach Democratic Rep. Debra Tendrich (HB 1473) have filed legislation requiring that supervisors of elections who work in a county where the main campus of a Florida college or state university is located must establish at least one early voting site at that campus.

Pushback on spending tax money on political campaigns

Orlando-area Democratic Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith has filed two measures coming out of last falls epic campaigns for recreational cannabis and abortion rights, both of which received well more than 50% support but fell short of the 60% required for passage.

Carlos Guillermo Smith via Florida Senate

One measure would allow voters to have a do-over of the 2006 constitutional amendment that raised the threshold to pass such initiatives from 60% back down to 50%.

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Another measure would attempt to ban what is already against Florida law but that the DeSantis administration still did last year  use taxpayer dollars for public service announcements to lobby on statewide ballot initiatives.

Smiths bill (SB 860), the Broadcast Freedom Protection Act says that elected or appointed state officials found to be interfering with broadcasters decisions to air political campaign advertisements, particularly those related to statewide ballot initiatives, would face third degree felony charges. They also could be removed from office and permanently disqualified from holding any subsequent elected or appointed office.

Tampa Bay area Democrat Michele Redner has filed a similar proposal in the House (HB 727) called the Public Resource Election Neutrality Act, which would ban any state agency from producing, disseminating, or funding any public service announcement related to a statewide ballot initiative.

Jacksonville area Democrat Kim Daniels has filed a bill (HB 109) that would allow photography at polling places and early voting sites at specific times.

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All Voting is Local Action Florida, a voting rights group, is calling for legislation that would expand early voting options; require supervisors of elections to detail how they spend their budgets; funding to update Floridas Voter Registration System; and a bill that requires all counties to provide the same level of language assistance to voters whose primary first language is Spanish.

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As the nation combats high egg prices due to viral chicken deaths, Louisiana officials say the state's poultry farmers remain unaffected. The virus is in the state, killing wild bird populations. The key, experts say, may be Louisiana cattle.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is spending $1 billion in a five-pronged approach to combat this year's predicted 40% increase in egg prices. The announcement came Feb. 26, and it's unclear how much of that money will reach Lousiaina.

Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain said Louisianas 300 commercial poultry farmers so far have avoided the virus's deadly path. The past 30 days alone, 139 flocks have been infected, killing 18.72 million birds nationwide.

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The USDA will spend $400 million in relief money for farmers who have losses due to the virus. Once a single chicken is infected, the entire flock must be culled, and other chicken coops miles away are at risk of the same fate.

The bottom line is that if you get a house thats infected, they will die within 36 to 48 hours  every bird there, Strain said. And then what happens is the amount of virus that is there generally spreads aerosolized to the next barn if you do not shut off the fans and not stop the virus from multiplying in the barn, that virus can spread up to eight miles away.

Bird flu in Louisiana

The virus is definitely here, carried in by migratory waterfowl, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. According to Louisiana State Veterinarian Dr. Jonathan Roberts, since January 2022, there have been 223 bird flu detections in Louisiana, with the most recent bird instance being a hunter harvest duck sample collected in Cameron Parish on Jan. 18.

Most detections in Louisiana have been in waterfowl, but there have been numerous detections in other wild bird species such as raptors and vultures as well as one backyard chicken flock.

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The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry also announced a case of a cat being infected on Jan. 24 in Plaquemines Parish. The cat was euthanized. The virus can infect humans, and one person in Louisiana was infected and hospitalized in Southeastern Louisiana Dec. 13. The patient was 65 years old and died Jan. 6.

It will likely be here indefinitely at some level, but the virus transmission will tend to decrease as the weather warms up and migratory birds head back north, Louisiana State Veterinarian Dr. Jonathan Roberts said via email.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's five-pronged approach will include boosting protection against the virus, funding vaccine research, aiding farmers affected by the virus and loosening trade both in and out of the country. The money will be spent on three of the prongs: biosecurity, relief money and vaccine research.

Five hundred million dollars of the money will go to beefing up farm security against pathogens. According to Strain, what that looks like is not yet fleshed out, but some talks have included ways to potentially save other flocks on the same farm.

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More: Here's what you need to know about measles following first confirmed death in Texas outbreak

More: Why Kim Mulkey said LSU's overtime loss at Alabama was 'a poorly officiated game'

Louisiana farmers have state-of-the-art systems that include Tyvek suits, scrub chambers, pressurized chambers and more, but Strain said there is always room for improvement. The key to the state's success so far, he said, may be that Louisiana cattle have not been infected by the avian flu.

If you look at the situation with a lot of the commercial flocks, there was transmission from the infected cattle herds to poultry houses mainly by the workers, he explained. We have not had that situation here as this disease has not been found in Louisiana dairies.

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According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 17 states have reported dairy cattle infections, 976 herds in total as of Feb. 27. The first reported case was March 25, 2024. On April 1, the CDC reported an infection in a human from exposure to a dairy cow in Texas. The USDA has taken notice and will spend $100 million vaccine research to combat the virus for both chickens and cattle.

This article originally appeared on The Courier: Louisiana commercial poultry farms untouched by bird flu, officials say
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (FOX 56)  An 18-year-old is behind bars following the deadly stabbing of his girlfriend, according to the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD).

Officers said it happened just after 7 p.m. on Saturday in the 5300 block of Buckner Avenue. The Louisville FOX affiliate, WDRB, reported that officers found a 15-year-old girl with multiple stab wounds.

Read more of the latest Kentucky news

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She was pronounced deceased by first responders on the scene.

A witness told officers that she heard the girl ask 18-year-old Kaden Seviour to be let out of a bedroom and attempt to open the door.

Court documents stated the witness went outside and opened the window. Thats when Seviour jumped from the open window and fled the scene, leaving the girl on the ground suffering multiple stab wounds.

According to court documents, the two were in a relationship.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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Police located Seviour near the Iroquois Manor Shopping Complex.

An arrest citation states that Seviour told officers hed stabbed the girl multiple times.

Seviour was lodged in the Louisville Metro Detention Center on a murder domestic violence charge. Hes being held on a $250,000 bond.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
Attorney Alexander Silvert, author of The Mailbox Conspiracy, joins producer/host Coralie Chun Matayoshi to discuss themes used by the prosecution and defense, examination of the evidence pointing to Eric Thompsons guilt including motive, DNA, surveillance footage, firearm training, and post-nuptial agreement, likely reasons why Thompsons wife Joyce didnt testify, what sentence Thompson is likely to receive (including enhanced sentencing which the jury is deliberating over), and civil suit filed by Jon Tokuharas mother against Thompson and his wife for wrongful death, infliction of emotional distress, and negligence by Joyce in creating a risk that her husband might do harm.

Q. Eric Thompsons first trial for the murder of acupuncturist Jon Tokuhara ended in a hung jury. Now the jury in his second trial has found him guilty of killing his wifes lover as well as firearms charges, which are both felonies. Before we get into the evidence, I wanted to do a quick anatomy of a trial. What is the purpose of an opening statement?

An opening statement is a roadmap of the facts that each side intends to prove. What the attorneys say in their opening statements is not evidence, but declarations of what they believe the evidence will show. Opening statements are given at the beginning of the trial and the Prosecutor in a criminal trial goes first because the government has the burden of proof.

Q. At the end of the trial, each side gives their closing argument. What is the purpose of a closing argument?

Like the opening statement, closing arguments are not evidence. They are an attempt to persuade the jurors to interpret the evidence in a way that favors their side (i.e. a guilty verdict for the Prosecutor or a not guilty for the Defense). Closing arguments occur after all of the witnesses have testified and all of the evidence has been presented. Attorneys generally summarize the key evidence presented during the trial, highlight the strengths of their case and address any weaknesses in the opposing sides argument. They may also remind the jury of the applicable laws and the burden of proof. In a criminal trial, the Prosecution presents their closing argument first, followed by the Defense counsel. The Prosecutor then has an opportunity for rebuttal and is usually entitled to the last word because the government has the burden of proof.

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13 things to know about Hawaii before you visit

Q. So, there are opening statements in the beginning and closing arguments at the end, but the most important part is presentation of the evidence in between. And although the jurors can be persuaded to view the evidence one way or another by either side, their verdict must be based on the evidence and nothing else. But because so much evidence is presented at trial, it is sometimes hard for jurors to keep track of everything. Thus, each side often uses a theme to tell their story of what happened. What themes did the Prosecutor and Defense use in this case?

The Prosecution described Thompson as a controlling perfectionist who tried to fix his marriage through murder to restore his perfect life. Thompson worked hard to start a successful business and purchase a $2 million home in East Oahu. When he found out about his wife Joyces affair with Jon Tokuhara, he made her confess to her parents, apologize to them for the affair, and admonished her not to see psychics anymore because the psychic apparently told her that it was okay to have an affair with Tokuhara. He also made her sign a post-nuptial agreement saying that if they divorced, he got the house and sole custody of their child.

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The Defense complained that shoddy police work resulted in contamination of DNA evidence, didnt follow up on all leads, and HPD wrongfully focused their entire investigation on Thompson to the exclusion of other possible suspects. They also argued that the surveillance footage didnt match and that Thompson had an alibi.

Q. The defendant in a criminal case does not need to prove his innocence. Its the Prosecutor who has the burden of proving that the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Much of the evidence was circumstantial because rarely is there an eyewitness to a murder. Now lets discuss the key evidence in the case.

Motive  although the Prosecution does not have to prove motive, jurors are made up of human beings who naturally want to know why something happened. If they cant find areasonable explanation for why the defendant would have, for example killed someone, that can create reasonable doubt which can lead to an acquittal. In this case, the prosecution argued that Thompson had a strong motive to kill his wifes lover. The nature of the gunshot wounds (4 bullets to the face) at close range showed that the killing was personal, and that the perpetrator probably knew the victim. There were no signs of a struggle and a bag containing $4,000 in cash was left untouched, casting doubt that this was a robbery.

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The Defense contended that others might also have had a motive to kill Tokuhara, including husbands of other wives who had been romantically involved with Tokuhara, or it may have been someone seeking to collect on a gambling debt.

DNA evidence  surveillance footage showed a man wearing a white bucket hat go in and out of Tokuharas clinic at the time of the murder. The bucket hat fell onto the road as the man hurriedly left the clinic, a homeless man picked it up, and the police recovered it. Ahead of the second trial, DNA from the hat was sent to an outside laboratory for testing because an audit of HPDs crime lab had found some concerning issues that could cast the DNA results into question. The outside lab had greater capabilities than HPDs crime lab at the time, and Prosecutors wanted to ensure that the DNA testing was reliable. DNA testing of the bucket hat indicated that Thompson was 16.4 trillion times more likely to be the contributor of the DNA than two control sample contributors. The lab also ruled out DNA belonging to Darryl Fujita (the ex-boyfriend of someone involved with Jon Tokuhara) finding the chance of the DNA being Fujitas was 13.8 octillion. The power of DNA evidence is that it can include and exclude suspects of a crime.

Surveillance footage and timeline  surveillance footage showed a man go in and out of Tokuharas clinic at the time of the murder (6:15 pm) and driving off at about 6:23 pm eastbound in a white Chevy Silverado truck. Thompson owns such a truck. A burned-out pot in a wheelbarrow found by the police at Thompsons home could have been used to destroy evidence, and flashes of fire were seen in a neighbors surveillance video that evening.

The Defense argued that surveillance footage showed the hat guy and the white truck at different places at the same time, and that the murder took place later that evening. Thompson claimed that he was at the Waimanalo dump at the time of the murder disposing of bricks, bought some items at Longs Drugstore using cash (a credit or debit card would have provided proof of his whereabouts), and that he lit a tiki torch to play outside with his daughter that evening.

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The prosecution rebutted this argument by saying that a detective had driven both routes to measure how much time it took to go to the dump versus to Tokuharas office, and the timing showed that it was much more likely that Thompson had gone to Tokuharas office than to the dump.

Firearms training  Thompson owns .22 caliber guns, the same type of firearms used in the shooting and admitted to going to the range for target practice.

Post-nuptial agreement  eleven days before the murder, the couple entered into agreement that Thompson would get the house and sole custody of their daughter if they divorced. The Prosecutor alleged that Thompson made his wife sign the agreement to silence her. In addition, a note was found on Joyces desk that an unfaithful spouse will not show remorse, something the Prosecutor said showed that Thompson was still upset over the affair.

The Defense argued that it was Thompsons wife Joyces idea to enter into the agreement to prove her faithfulness. Their relationship was nearly back to normal, and they were enjoying family time during the holidays. But the Prosecution questioned why Joyce would give up her motherhood.

Q. Why wasnt Thompsons wife Joyce called to testify? She could have told the jury whether her husband went to dump bricks or buy groceries, and she could have told the jury if the flames seen in video footage were really a tiki torch or something being burned in a wheelbarrow.

Under the spousal privilege rule (Rule 505 of the Hawaii Rules of Evidence), the spouse of the accused has a right to refuse to testify, and it is that spouses sole decision. However, if the spouse is going to talk about marital privileged communications, then either spouse can invoke the privilege. So, Eric Thompsons wife Joyce could have testified, but if she spoke about marital communications, Eric could have stopped her (i.e., Joyce could have testified to what she might have seen or heard, but not what Eric might have told her which would be privileged marital communications). This spousal privilege applies when the defendant and spouse are married at the time of the prosecution and does not survive the dissolution of marriage.

Q. Now that he has been convicted, what kind of sentence might Thompson face?

Murder in the second degree: life imprisonment with the possibility of parole.

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In cases where the crime is especially heinous, the defendant committed murder before, or a firearms offense is involved, the defendant can receive an enhanced sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole if they would pose a danger to society. The jury in this case decided against imposing an enhanced sentence of imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Carrying or use of a firearm in commission of a separate felony: up to 20 years or more depending upon the circumstances. It is a Class A felony which requires a separate sentence from that of the underlying offense, but the court does have the discretion to impose a concurrent sentence.

Q. This is not the end. Thompson will probably appeal, but the grounds for appeal need to be errors in how the law was applied, and not a dispute over the facts correct?

Grounds for appeal in a criminal case include legal errors by the trial court, such as improper jury instructions or admission of evidence, insufficient evidence, prosecutorial misconduct, jury misconduct, or ineffective assistance of counsel.

Q. Jon Tokuharas mother filed a civil suit for wrongful death, infliction of emotional distress, and negligence against Joyce Thompson for failing to refrain from conduct that would create an unreasonable risk of harm through her husbands conduct. Since the burden of proof is lower in a civil than a criminal case, what do you think will happen?

Evidence presented in the criminal trial is admissible in the civil case and since the burden of proof is lower, the plaintiff will likely prevail.

To learn more about this subject, tune into this video podcast.

Disclaimer: this material is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The law varies by jurisdiction and is constantly changing. For legal advice, you should consult a lawyer that can apply the appropriate law to the facts in your case.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
(Stock photo by Greenleaf123/Getty Images)

Being caught with a small amount of marijuana in North Dakota may get you a fine but not a day in court if a bill being considered by the Legislature passes.

The North Dakota House this week passed a bill that would treat possession of marijuana under a half ounce like a speeding ticket, with a $150 fine but not a criminal charge.

Rep. Liz Conmy, D-Fargo. (Photo provided by the North Dakota Legislative Assembly)

Bill sponsor Rep. Liz Conmy, D-Fargo, said in written testimony that over the last four years, there have been an average of 2,169 marijuana cases in North Dakota courts each year. In 2024, 94% of the marijuana cases were of the lowest level, possessing less than half an ounce, but each case involved three court appearances, requiring the time of judges and attorney and clogging up court dockets.

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Most of the cases end up with a $150 fine, which is the fine imposed by House Bill 1596.

The bill passed the House on a 76-17 vote and moved on to the Senate.

The bill also reduces penalties for marijuana possession for the next two levels above a half-ounce, but possession of more than 500 grams of marijuana remains a Class A misdemeanor.

A person who feels wrongly accused of possession can still make their case to a judge, if they so choose.

The bill received positive testimony from North Dakota states attorneys and the North Dakota Legal Counsel for Indigents.

Stark County States Attorney Amanda Engelstad said in written testimony that the cases involving small amounts of marijuana often involve people from out-of-state, leading to missed court dates and more work for the court system.

This bill will free up prosecutors time, law enforcements time, and the court dockets, Engelstad said.

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A couple weeks after President Donald Trump ordered the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, other lawmakers are considering similar name changes. Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick is now advocating to change the name of a cut of steak.

In a Friday post on X, Patrick proposed the renaming of the New York strip to the "Texas strip" after meeting with the Texas Cattle Feeders Association. When a few members said their favorite cut was New York strip, Patrick had some questions.

"I asked why we didn't call it a 'Texas Strip' because New York has mostly dairy cows," Patrick wrote in his post. "Just because a New York restaurant named Texas beef a New York Strip in the 19th century doesnt mean we need to keep doing that."

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Texas currently has 12.2 million head of cattle  more than any other state, according to National Beef Wire. Patrick also noted that "New York mostly has dairy cows."

: Factoid: Texas has about 12.2 million head of cattle, the most in America. I met with the Texas Cattle Feeders and Cattle Raisers this week.



Out of curiosity, I asked each of them their favorite cut of meat. A few said New York Strip. I asked why we didnt call it a  Dan Patrick (@DanPatrick) February 28, 2025

Patrick reveals name change proposal for Texas Senate

The lieutenant governor revealed plans for the Texas Senate to propose the official name change. If passed, restaurants and grocery stores would be asked to change the name of the cut on menus and labels.

More on Dan Patrick; Lt. Gov. says he has 'no confidence' in the Texas Lottery

In 2022, cattle accounted for around half of Texas' commodities, the Texas Department of Agriculture reports. The cattle industry represented $15.5 billion in market value. In his post, Patrick argued that the use of "Texas strip" would further improve the marketing of Texas beef.

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"We want this to catch on across the country and around the globe," Patrick wrote. "Liberal New York shouldnt get the credit for our hard-working ranchers. We promote the Texas brand on everything made or grown in Texas because it benefits our economy and jobs."

Even if the proposal is passed, the name change would have relatively little impact outside of the Lone Star State.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: 'Texas strip' rebrand would help beef market, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick says
NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  St. Patricks Day parades, dance shows, races and crawls are set to take place across Connecticut.

The holiday, a celebration of Irish heritage and culture, honors the patron saint of Ireland.

Check out the information below for more on the upcoming festivities and events:

Parades

Running Events

Irish Beer, Music & Fun

Irish Pubs and Restaurants

Irish History

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
(Bloomberg) -- Lumber futures rose to the highest in more than two and a half years after President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into shipments of the commodity into the US.

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Trump on Saturday asked the Commerce Department to investigate the national security harm posed by lumber imports. Those shipments largely come from Canada, which is already facing the threat of 25% tariffs on its goods. The most-active contract in Chicago rose as much as 3.5% to the highest since August 2022.

Shares of some Canadian lumber companies slumped on Monday, with Interfor Corp. dropping as much as 9.9%, the most since June 2022. Canfor Corp. fell as much as 3.5%.

The investigation will examine whether exporters like Canada, Germany, and Brazil are dumping lumber into US markets at the expense of American economic prosperity and national security, Bloomberg reported, citing a senior administration official who briefed reporters on the condition of anonymity.

Softwood lumber has been a decades-old irritant in the trade relationship between Ottawa and Washington. The US argues Canada subsidizes its loggers by charging cheap fees for harvesting, and has repeatedly slapped duties on Canadian softwood over the years.

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Trump has made lumber imports a national security issue, Scotiabank analysts including Ben Isaacson wrote in a note Monday. Its likely a precursor move to further tariffs on lumber and Canadian goods more broadly, making it hard to see how parts of the Canadian Paper & Forestry Products sector arent ravaged, they wrote.

While the Canadian lumber industry has taken strides to reduce exposure to US protectionist measures, companies are sensitive to additional layers of duties and tariffs, TD Cowen analysts Sean Steuart and Kasia Trzaski Kopytek wrote in a Monday note.

Canada supplies as much as 30% of US softwood lumber, a share that America will have a hard time compensating for in the near-term. Trump on Saturday also signed an executive order that cuts red tape in order to streamline timber production, including by pushing for quicker approvals for logging under the Endangered Species Act.

Existing duties on Canadian lumber have already helped to increase US production. But fully replacing foreign imports will require the construction of multiple new mills to turn timber into construction materials, which would run into all sorts of constraints, said Crystal Gauvin, a senior economist at Forest Economic Advisors.

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Mills built during the Covid-19 pandemic, when lumber prices soared amid a boom in home renovations, took about three years to become fully operational, she said. It could also take several years to build the infrastructure to supply new plants, she said.

The Washington-based US Lumber Coalition supported Trumps actions, with Stimson Lumber Co. Chief Executive Officer Andrew Miller saying that the additional enforcement step will help address the harmful effects of foreign unfair trade practices in lumber.

US environmental groups including Oregon Wild, meanwhile, said the presidents executive order to boost logging activity would increase wildfire risk and harm forests.

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Lviv Mayor Andrii Sadovyi says the UK will help make Lviv a new major transport hub in Europe.

Source: Andrii Sadovyi on Facebook, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Sadovyi reports that Mike Kane, British Minister of Aviation, Maritime Affairs and Security, confirmed his readiness to support the development of Ukraine's transport infrastructure. After the meetings in the UK, Sadovyi said that three leading companies with experience in implementing large-scale infrastructure projects, Gleeds, BDP and PwC, would join the work in this area.

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Over the next three months, they will prepare a list of priority projects to attract funding.

Quote from Andrii Sadovyi: "One of the key areas for us is the creation of a road and rail hub in Lviv. Our common goal is to develop a high-quality project that will integrate and make our city and Ukraine more accessible to Europe."

Background:

The UK would allocate 1.6 billion (approximately US$2 billion) to Ukraine to purchase air defence missiles.

The UK stressed that it is ready to send peacekeepers to Ukraine, providing it with "boots on the ground and planes in the air".

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French President Emmanuel Macron has assured his country's support for Germany after a driver rammed a car into a crowd in the south-western city of Mannheim on Monday, killing at least two people.

"To all people in Mannheim, especially to the relatives of the victims of this act of violence, to the German people: France is on your side," Macron wrote on X in both French and German.

The alleged perpetrator is a 40-year-old German citizen who is in custody. The incident has not yet been labelled an attack by authorities, who say they are still investigating his motivations.
The idea of a "partial truce" in the Russo-Ukrainian war, proposed by French President Emmanuel Macron, could become the basis for further negotiations on a broader agreement and allow for a test of Moscow's willingness to implement the agreements.

Source: European Pravda with reference to a statement by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on BFMTV, a French TV and radio channel

Quote: "This ceasefire in the sky, at sea and on energy infrastructure will demonstrate Vladimir Putin's goodwill when he agrees to such a truce. Then real peace negotiations can begin. Because we want peace  but a reliable and lasting peace."

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Details: The minister was asked about the idea of a partial truce in the Russo-Ukrainian war, revealed by Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Barrot explained that this initial agreement could be a stepping stone to further negotiations.

Background:

After the summit in London, French President Emmanuel Macron said that he and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer had an idea for an initial partial cessation of combat actions between Russia and Ukraine  in the sky, at sea and on attacks on energy infrastructure.

Macron said that the advantage of such a ceasefire is that its observance can be measured and monitored, while the length of the front line is enormous.

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Italian automotive supplier SAPA has acquired 100% of Megatech Industries AG, a European specialist in plastic injection moulding for the mobility industry, to expand its market presence and technological capabilities.

SAPA, founded in 1974 by Angelo Affinita as a family business, has grown through its patented One-Shot method, a streamlined process for manufacturing lightweight mobility components. The acquisition of Megatech will allow SAPA to scale this technology more broadly while reinforcing its relationships with major OEMs, including Volkswagen Group, BMW Group, and Stellantis.

Following the acquisition, SAPAs annual revenue is expected to rise from 360 million to approximately 700 million, with a workforce exceeding 2,000 employees across seven countries. The deal aligns with SAPAs strategy of diversification across customers, products, and geographies to mitigate industry volatility and achieve economies of scale.

The integration of Megatech is expected to generate synergies due to the companies complementary technologies, positioning the new entity as a leading European player in plastic injection moulding for the mobility sector. The move also supports SAPAs commitment to sustainable innovation across vehicle types, including electric, hydrogen, and internal combustion engine vehicles.

SAPA board members Antonio Affinita, Mariangela Affinita, and Giovanni Affinita highlighted the significance of the acquisition, noting that despite challenges in the automotive sector, SAPA has successfully executed its industrial plan, which was initiated in 2017. The transaction also paves the way for SAPAs expansion into South America, particularly Brazil.

The deal was managed by SAPA Group CFO Gianluca Henny and M&A Manager Giovanni Marco Parlati, with Oaklins Italy, a subsidiary of Banca Akros, acting as SAPAs exclusive financial advisor. Legal counsel was provided by Gianni & Origoni and Wolf Theiss, while Megatech was advised by Clearwater and E+H. Due diligence was conducted by a cross-border EY team across financial, commercial, tax, legal, and labour aspects.

The acquisition marks a key milestone in SAPAs M&A strategy, positioning the company for further consolidation in the mobility sector while reinforcing its role as a provider of innovative and sustainable solutions.

"SAPA acquires Megatech Industries AG" was originally created and published by Motor Finance Online, a GlobalData owned brand.




(Bloomberg) -- French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer are working on a plan to reach a one-month truce in Ukraine.

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The potential truce would include air and maritime operations as well as energy infrastructure, the French leader said in an interview with Le Figaro Sunday after attending a London crisis summit on Russias war on Ukraine.

Keir Starmers spokesman, Dave Pares, told reporters on Monday that the proposed cease-fire was one of a number of options on the table, while declining to say whether the UK backs the plan.

Soldiers would only be deployed on the ground in a second phase, Macron said. There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks.

Macron said in the Figaro interview that the areas he outlined for a possible truce would be verifiable if there were breaches, while it would be very difficult to do so along the eastern frontline.

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Britain, France and one or two other countries will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, Starmer said earlier Sunday.

Sundays emergency summit in London came after a week of frantic diplomacy following last weeks disastrous Oval Office clash between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy over the prospects of a ceasefire with Russia without American security guarantees.

Macron also told Le Figaro the EU should provide 200 billion ($208 billion) to boost defense capabilities in the face of a US pullback and threats from Russia.

The EU now needs to take over responsibility for its own security, he said. EU countries should set a target for defense investments at about 3%-3.5% of gross domestic product.

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These issues will be the focus of an extraordinary European summit scheduled on Thursday, he said. The funds for defense should be done via innovative financing, he said, including through joint loans and other EU mechanisms. The EU is aiming for an emergency package of 20 billion ($21 billion) in military aid for Ukraine at the Brussels summit.

--With assistance from Joe Mayes.

(Adds comment from Starmers spokesman in third paragraph.)

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Elon Musks recent social media posts leave little doubt: He has been thinking about Social Security a lot lately. In fact, Donald Trumps biggest campaign donor and the head of the quasi-governmental DOGE operation keeps tweeting bizarre claims about alleged fraud and inconsistencies he thinks he has identified in the Social Security system.

Those claims have invariably collapsed under scrutiny. Indeed, it has become rather embarrassing lately. Musk claimed, for example, that millions of people over the age of 130 were receiving Social Security checks  he said it was perhaps the biggest fraud in the history of humanity  but none of this was true.

Its possible that the billionaire GOP megadonor just doesnt know enough about government programs to understand how wrong he is. Its also possible that Musk is indifferent to the facts and is engaged in a misinformation campaign. Either way, theres no reason for the public to take his claims at face value, since they keep getting debunked.

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Its against this backdrop that many of the nations most powerful Republicans, including Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson, continue to peddle Musks claims about Social Security as if they were true. They are not.

But the problem is not limited to Musks falsehoods. After all, the fact that hes plainly wrong might not be consequential at all: Musk claims to have found fraud; reality proves otherwise; and we all move on with our lives. Right?

Well, maybe not. Making matters worse is the apparent fact that the donor helping run the executive branch in 2025 has a problem with the Social Security system itself. USA Today reported:

Elon Musk sharply criticized Social Security in a Friday podcast interview with Joe Rogan, labeling the critical elder benefits program a Ponzi scheme. Musk, who is the worlds richest man and an increasingly powerful adviser to President Donald Trump, also described the federal government as one big pyramid scheme. Musk is a leading figure in the administrations effort  largely through the Department of Government Efficiency  to cut costs and dismantle the federal bureaucracy.

And its at this point where the offensive becomes tougher to shrug off.

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Indeed, lets take stock. Trump has put his top campaign donor in a position of enormous authority, despite Musks unfamiliarity with basics of governing. This same donor regularly peddles falsehoods about Social Security, keeps suggesting there are people receiving benefits checks that shouldnt exist, is helping advance thousands of layoffs at the Social Security administration and, in case that werent quite enough, is condemning the structure of the popular social insurance program.

Itd be tough to blame someone who relies on Social Security for feeling a bit nervous right about now.

You dont need to scratch your head and wonder whats going on when you see that the Trump administration is decimating Social Security offices and staff, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a statement. And you dont need to ponder what might happen next when Elon Musk, the richest man in the world, says that the tens-of-millions of seniors, families, and children who depend on these earned benefits are part of some scam  because thats a real threat and a real promise: they are coming for your Social Security.

The New York Democrat added, The richest man in the world and his sidekick, the President of the United States, have decided to attack the bedrock of Americas social safety net, and now your pocket is in the way.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Late last week, a publication called The Record, which focuses on news related to cybersecurity, published a report that seemed hard to believe. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the outlet reported, ordered U.S. Cyber Command to stand down from all planning against Russia, including offensive digital actions.

Two days later, Rep. Mike Turner, the former Republican chair of the House Intelligence Committee, appeared on CBSs Face the Nation and was asked if the report was true. The Ohio congressman said he was certain that it had to be wrong.

Im confident, considering what Russia is currently doing against the United States, that the United States, the status against Russia would not be that, considering what we are facing from Russia operations, Turner added.

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I can appreciate why the GOP lawmaker was incredulous. The idea that the Trump administration would take such a step certainly appears absurd. And yet, NBC News reported that the reporting in The Record was correct.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered U.S. Cyber Command to halt offensive cyber operations and information operations against Russia, a U.S. official familiar with the matter said. Hegseth gave the order to the head of the command, Air Force Gen. Tim Haugh, in late February, the official said. It is unclear clear how long the order will last.

A report in The New York Times, which cited additional sources, added, [R]etaining access to major Russian networks for espionage purposes is critical to understanding Mr. Putins intentions as he enters negotiations, and to tracking the arguments within Russia about what conditions to insist upon and what could be given up.

That access, at least for now, has been curtailed. It led Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to say in a written statement, Donald Trump is so desperate to earn the affection of a thug like Vladimir Putin he appears to be giving him a free pass as Russia continues to launch cyber operations and ransomware attacks against critical American infrastructure, threatening our economic and national security.

The New York Democrat added, It is a critical strategic mistake for Donald Trump to unilaterally disarm against Putin.

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As jarring as this is on its face, the developments appear even worse when seen in context.

Hegseths order roughly coincided with Donald Trumps Oval Office debacle with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the American president echoing Kremlin talking points, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the Trump White House curtailing U.S. aid to Ukraine, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the Trump administration terminating an initiative to protect Ukraines energy grid, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the president saying hes prepared to reward Russia by welcoming it back into the G7, which was in line with Russias wishes.

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And the Trump administration disbanding the FBIs Foreign Influence Task Force, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the Trump administration paring back enforcement of the Foreign Agents Registration Act, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the Trump administration targeting U.S. intelligence officials as part of its mass firing campaign, which was in line with Russias wishes.

And the Trump administration slashing the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which was in line with Russias wishes.

A cynic might wonder if the White House were simply taking directions from the Kremlin directly.

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After the story about Hegseths order reached the public, the president turned to his social media platform to declare that Americans should spend less time worrying about Putin. What a coincidence: Thats exactly what Moscow wants him to say.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Todays installment of campaign-related news items from across the country.

* When Andrew Cuomo resigned as governor of New York four years ago, it seemed obvious at the time that his political career had run its course. The Democrat nevertheless announced on Saturday that hes entering the mayoral race in New York City.

* Ahead of Donald Trumps address to a joint session of Congress, two progressive groups are launching a new ad targeting the presidents economic agenda. NBC News reported that the commercial from the groups Families Over Billionaires and Unrig Our Economy, will air on Fox News Fox and Friends and will feature a Trump voter asking him not to cut taxes for billionaires.

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* The latest PBS News/NPR/Marist poll is the latest national survey to show Trump underwater, with an approval rating of 45%. The latest CNN poll, released over the weekend, showed the Republicans standing a bit better at 48%, though like the PBS News/NPR/Marist survey, his disapproval rating is higher than his approval rating. (Click the links for more information on the polls methodologies and margins of error.)

* As former Sen. Sherrod Brown eyes a possible comeback bid, the Ohio Democrat has a new essay in The New Republic on the partys future and its policy agenda.

* In Kansas, Sen. Roger Marshall is up for re-election next year, and the Republican incumbent held a town hall meeting with constituents on Saturday. It did not go well: The senator faced so many unfriendly questions that Marshall ultimately gave up and ended the event early, amid chants from locals who said, Youre not done, as he walked away.

* A progressive advocacy group called 314 Action is reportedly launching a $25 million campaign to recruit and elect 100 new physicians to public office by the end of the decade.

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* And if there were any doubts about Sen. Jack Reeds electoral future, the Rhode Island Democrat confirmed late last week that he is, in fact, running for re-election next year.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
As Pete Hegseth prepared to become defense secretary, his many critics made a persuasive case that the former Fox News host was, among other things, wildly unprepared to lead the Pentagon. Soon after, he took steps that helped prove his detractors right.

In fact, it was just a few weeks ago when the hapless Pentagon chief declared publicly that it was unrealistic to think that after the war in Ukraine ends, Russia wouldnt keep portions of Ukraine it took by force. He added that Ukrainian membership in NATO simply wouldnt happen.

The comments were certainly in line with the Kremlins wishes  a familiar problem with this administration  but they were also immediately recognized as a dramatic misstep: Before negotiations on a possible peace plan even began, Hegseth was already giving Moscow what it wanted.

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The mistake did not go unnoticed. Not only were U.S. allies taken aback, but Sen. Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the Republican chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, chided the defense secretary for making a rookie mistake.

Hegseth quickly tried to walk back his comments, though three weeks later, it appears his rookie mistake has become the White Houses official policy. Politico summarized White House National Security Adviser Mike Waltzs appearance on CNNs State of the Union program.

National security adviser Mike Waltz on the ultimate cease-fire deal, on State of the Union: This will clearly be some type of territorial concession for security guarantees going forward. ... This needs to be a permanent end, not a temporary end. This needs to be European-led security guarantees going forward. Part of that is Europes contribution to its own defense. ... And then, you know, lets not get too far ahead of ourselves  what type of support we provide or not is to be negotiated. But one thing is clear: We do not see Ukraine being a member of NATO.

Lets recap. In February, Hegseth said that Russia will be able to keep parts of Ukraine that it took by force, and now in March, the White House national security adviser said Ukraine will, as far as the Trump administration is concerned, have to make some type of territorial concession to Russia.

In February, Hegseth said that Ukrainian membership in NATO was effectively off the table, and now in March, the White House national security adviser said effectively the same thing.

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In fact, Waltz managed to go further than Hegseth, telling a national television audience the administration isnt sure whether Volodymyr Zelenskyy should remain as Ukraines leader. We need a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end this war, Waltz said. And if it becomes apparent that President Zelenskyys either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in his country, then I think we have a real issue on our hands.

In other words, the diplomatic work has hardly even begun, but as far as the White House is concerned, Ukraine should be prepared to reward Russia with territory, give up on NATO membership, and even prepare to choose a new president more in line with Donald Trumps wishes.

Its one thing for an amateur Cabinet secretary to make a rookie mistake. Its something else for an administration to embrace the error as U.S. foreign policy.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Throughout Donald Trumps first term, the president seemed eager to associate himself with military generals, as if their toughness and battlefield experience might somehow improve his own stature. That didnt turn out especially well.

The Republican brought on retired Gen. James Mattis, for example, to serve as his first secretary of defense, and Mattis reportedly came to believe that Trump was a threat to the United States. He brought on retired Gen. John Kelly to serve as his first Homeland Security secretary, and Kelly came to believe that Trump was a fascist. Trump tapped Gen. Mark Milley to serve as the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, but Milley also came to believe that Trump was a fascist.

And then, of course, theres retired Gen. H.R. McMaster, who also served at Trumps side, and who also came to see the president as utterly misguided. The Washington Post reported:

H.R. McMaster, a former national security adviser to President Donald Trump and a retired Army lieutenant general, condemned Trump and Vice President JD Vances tense exchange Friday afternoon with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. It is impossible to understand why President Trump and Vice President Vance seem determined to put more pressure on President Zelensky while they seem to be coddling Putin  the person who inflicted this terrible war in Ukraine, McMaster wrote in a post on X.

The president apparently heard about this, and published a related item to his own social media platform. H.R. MCMASTER IS A WEAK AND TOTALLY INEFFECTIVE LOSER! Trump wrote, in his usual understated way.

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To the extent that reality still has any meaning, McMaster is a highly decorated retired combat veteran, who earned, among other things, a Silver Star and a Purple Heart. A variety of adjectives come to mind when describing his lengthy term of service, but weak isnt one of them.

Of course, McMasters criticisms from Friday were not the first the public has heard from him. Last year, the retired Army generals book on his 14-month tenure as Trumps White House national security adviser came out, and it was not a flattering portrayal: He described Oval Office meetings as exercises in competitive sycophancy, complained of Trumps outlandish national security ideas, and alerted readers to the fact that Trump was a president who was addicted to adulation and easily manipulated by flattery.

But perhaps most notable of all was the books description of McMasters concerns about Trump and Putin. The Wall Street Journal published a striking excerpt, which began: From the beginning of my time as President Donald Trumps national security adviser, in February 2017, I found that discussions of Vladimir Putin and Russia were difficult to have with the president. It continued:

[O]ur relationship reached a breaking point after I attended the Munich Security Conference in February 2018. ... [W]hat made news was the response I gave to a question from a member of the Russian Duma, the lower house of the Federal Assembly, who suggested cooperation between Moscow and Washington in the area of cybersecurity. After joking that I doubted there would be any Russian cyber experts available because they were all engaged in subverting our democracies, I described evidence cited in the Mueller investigations indictments of Russians for election interference in 2016 as incontrovertible.

Trump, McMaster quickly learned, was furious that his national security adviser had told the truth in public, and his aversion to McMaster soon intensified  in part because the retired general was the principal voice telling him that Putin was using him.

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The excerpt went on to note a nerve-agent attack in England that targeted former Russian military intelligence officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter, which was easily traced to Moscow.

Just a few days after the poisoning of Skripal and his daughter, a story appeared in the New York Post with the headline Putin Heaps Praise on Trump, Pans U.S. Politics. When I walked into the Oval Office that evening, on another matter, the president had a copy of the article and was writing a note to the Russian leader across the page with a fat black Sharpie. He asked me to get the clipping to Putin.

McMaster ignored the directive, and confided to his wife, After over a year in this job, I cannot understand Putins hold on Trump.

A year later, those same questions continue to plague the same retired general who served at Trumps side for over a year.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
For reasons hes never fully explained, Donald Trump has long fixated on the United States international standing. As his first term came to an ignominious end, for example, the then-outgoing president delivered a strange farewell address in which he found it necessary to tell the American public, The world respects us again. The Republican added, in an apparent message for his Democratic successor, Please dont lose that respect.

None of this made any sense. International public-opinion research found that the United States global stature soared during Barack Obamas presidency, collapsed during Trumps first term, and then recovered during Joe Bidens presidency. Trump had the entire story backwards.

And yet, Trump has suggested that he, and he alone, can restore the countrys international standing, despite reality. Indeed, in his second inaugural address, Trump declared, From this day forward, our country will ... be respected again all over the world.

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Six weeks later, the world is eagerly expressing its respect for one country and one leader, but its not our country and its not our leader. The New York Times reported:

European leaders quickly pledged their continued support for Ukraine on Friday after President Trumps blistering criticism of Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, in a meeting at the White House. Leaders lined up behind Ukraine and praised its embattled president, the statements coming one after the other: from France, Germany, Poland, Spain, Denmark, the Netherlands, Portugal, the Czech Republic, Norway, Finland, Croatia, Estonia, Latvia, Slovenia, Belgium, Lithuania, Luxembourg and Ireland. Canadian, Australian and New Zealand leaders added their voices to the Europeans.

That list reads like an inventory of countries that have stood proudly with the United States for generations. But after Fridays fiasco in the Oval Office, leaders and officials from these countries practically tripped over each other to express their public support for Ukraine and its president  making clear to global audiences that they were not on board with the American presidents obscene display.

Indeed, one day after the debacle at the White House, Zelenskyy arrived in London to a heros welcome from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Subtle, it was not.

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The embrace came on the heels of European Union foreign minister Kaja Kallas saying, Today it became clear that the free world needs a new leader.

She didnt call out Trump by name, but given the context and the circumstances, she didnt have to.

As the dust settles, Britain, France and Ukraine have agreed to work on a ceasefire plan. Its the kind of work that used to be done by and with the United States  and wouldve been done by and with the United States up until six weeks ago.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
As Donald Trump continues to position the United States on Russias side in the war in Ukraine, the international ripple effects are predictable: Democracies around the world are expressing their enthusiastic support for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while Russians celebrate  and by some measures, gloat  about having the White House align itself with the Kremlins position.

Among Republican officials, however, the dividing lines arent nearly as clean.

The American presidents team spent the immediate aftermath of Fridays fiasco in the Oval Office shining a light on the many GOP officials who, at least publicly, said the debacle was a triumph.

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But if Trump is under the impression that his party is united on the issue, hes mistaken. Republican Sen. James Lankford, for example, appeared on NBC News Meet the Press and took a position that was largely the opposite of what Americans have heard from the West Wing. The Oklahoman said Zelenskyy is right about Vladimir Putin  whom the senator described as a murderous KGB thug and a dictator  adding, Were not turning our back on Ukraine, nor should we.

Sen. John Curtis made related comments on Friday. Diplomacy and statesmanship seem to have been checked at the door of the Oval Office today, the Utah Republican wrote online. Ukraine is an ally in pursuit of free markets, free speech, and free people  Western values that align with our own. A win for Putin, on the other hand, does not.

But Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski went considerably further than others in the GOP. Politico reported:

Sen. Lisa Murkowski delivered a scorching rebuke Saturday of President Donald Trumps explosive exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a rare voice of Republican dissent as party members lined up in support of the presidents increasingly combative relationship with Ukraine. I am sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin, a threat to democracy and U.S. values around the world, the Alaskan wrote in a Saturday afternoon post to X.

Itd be an overstatement to suggest the president received overwhelming pushback from Republicans, but theres no denying the fact that some GOP officials on Capitol Hill are not impressed with Trumps approach  and some are even willing to say so in public.

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In the meantime, there are a handful of Republicans who appear to be hedging their bets. Republican Sens. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Roger Wicker of Mississippi, for example, appeared eager to shake Zelenskyys hand on Friday morning and offer support, only to reverse hours later, after Trump lambasted the Ukrainian leader.

And then, of course, theres House Speaker Mike Johnson, who managed to criticize both Putin and Zelenskyy, roughly at the same time, which will likely please no one.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
When Donald Trump met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and the two leaders fielded some questions from the press, the discussion predictably turned to Russia and the war in Ukraine. The American president took the opportunity to do what he often does: express sympathy for Vladimir Putin.

We had to go through the Russian hoax together, the Republican said, referring to himself and the Russian leader. Trump added that the Russia scandal had nothing to do with Russia  days later, I still dont know what that meant  and that the underlying controversy was a phony story that was made up.

Roughly 24 hours later, as part of his Oval Office debacle with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump managed to say something new about the scandal. The Washington Post reported:

Let me tell you: Putin went through a hell of a lot with me, Trump said. He went through a phony witch hunt where they used him and Russia. Russia, Russia, Russia. You ever hear of that deal? That was a phony Hunter Biden, Joe Biden scam. ... And he had to go through that.

At this point, I could write several paragraphs explaining that the Russia scandal was not phony, no matter how many times Republicans claim otherwise. I could also go into detail, highlighting the overwhelming evidence from the investigations launched by special counsel Robert Muellers team and the GOP-led Senate Intelligence Committee, both of which documented the extent to which Trump and his team welcomed, received, and benefited from Russian assistance in the 2016 campaign.

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I could similarly remind readers that Team Trump obstructed the investigation into this assistance  by some measures, 10 times. I could note that Trump and his operation repeatedly lied about their interactions with Russia during the 2016 race. I could even reiterate the fact that a Senate Intelligence Committees report  written in part by the panels then-Republican majority  at one point literally described a direct tie between senior Trump Campaign officials and the Russian intelligence services.

But Im going to assume readers already know this. Lets instead note what was new about the American presidents unscripted remarks from Friday.

As a Washington Post analysis noted about the Republicans claim, It was an extraordinary comment. Trump has gone further than the evidence suggests in claiming his own exoneration in the Russia investigation. But here he was suggesting Putin also had been wronged in the process.

There is voluminous and unchallenged evidence that the Russian leader launched an intelligence operation targeting the American political system for the express purpose of influencing the outcome of a presidential election. Even if one were inclined to put aside questions of cooperation and collusion  no one should put these questions aside, of course, but just for the sake of conversation  Putins intelligence operation itself represented an extraordinary attack on the United States.

Years later, Trump would have Americans believe that Putin was the victim of the attack that he perpetrated. That isnt just wrong, its insane.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
MADISON, Ala. (WHNT)  A Madison company was awarded a multi-million dollar contract with the Air Force on Feb. 27.

Tyonek Technical Services LLC, of Madison, was awarded a $98,115,620 firm-fixed price level of effort contract for cyber operations formal training support.

The U.S. Department of Defense said this contract provides for subject matter expertise and other essential capabilities to augment and support the mission of 39th Information Operations Squadron.

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While Tyonek Technical Services LLC was awarded the contract, work will not be performed in North Alabama. Work will be performed in the following states:

Hurlburt Field in Florida

Joint Base in San Antonio, Texas

Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi

Work is expected to be finished by Feb. 28, 2027.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
By Jessica DiNapoli, Svea Herbst-Bayliss, Siddharth Cavale and Abigail Summerville

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Big Food's worst nightmare is unfolding across U.S. supermarket aisles.

Shoppers, weary of high prices and highly-processed packaged food, are increasingly buying from smaller food brands, threatening the growth of billion-dollar products from conglomerates such as Unilever.

Consider Hellmann's mayonnaise, one of Unilever's biggest brands globally. The condiment is losing market share to less-well-known rivals such as Dukes Mayo, which was founded in the U.S. south, and Mikes Amazing mayo, which is gaining traction in the U.S. northeast, where it says it is the fastest growing condiments brand. Both are often priced for less than Hellmann's.

A 30-ounce jar of Duke's, for example, is priced below $5 versus Hellmann's $6.49 for the same size. It is now one of the country's fastest growing brands of mayo with more than $100 million in sales, according to the buyout firm that acquired its parent company, Sauer Brands, for about $1.5 billion in January.

Duke's market share grew to 9% from 6% in 2021, said Joe Tuza, Sauer Brands chief growth officer. The sugar-free mayo is the country's fifth-largest by market share, Tuza said, behind Hellmann's and other Kraft Heinz and Unilever brands.

The rival products' success shows the challenges facing global consumer product and food marketers such as London-based Unilever, which in February surprised retailers, investors and employees when it replaced its second CEO in two years, Hein Schumacher, in part because he failed to turn around its 60.8 billion euro business quickly enough.

Unilever declined to comment for this story.

The company paid $24.3 billion, including the assumption of debt, to acquire Hellmann's owner Bestfoods in 2000, expanding its presence in food. Unilever has aggressively marketed Hellmann's, and launched new flavors of the condiment, but in recent years, the brand's hold has weakened in the U.S. mayo category, according to Euromonitor data tracking brick-and-mortar and online retailers.

Adam Theo, 45, of Arlington, Virginia, said he switched to Duke's after a friend introduced him to the condiment about three years ago. "Before that, I never thought much about my choice of mayonnaise, he said.

Unilever's food business, dominated by Hellmanns and Knorr seasonings, saw sales volume remain roughly flat last year, while prices rose, Fernando Fernandez, who was Unilever's chief financial officer, said last month. Fernandez replaced Schumacher as CEO on March 1.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  The Madison County Sheriffs Office said it is investigating an inmate death after a man was found unresponsive in his medical cell Monday morning.

On March 2, around 8:55 p.m., MCSO said the Huntsville Police Department arrested and charged John Mitchell Rigdon with third-degree criminal tresspassing after an incident at Crestwood Hospital.

Several agencies near Lauderdale Co. respond to fire involving over 50 vehicles at salvage yard

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Prior to his arrest, Rigdon had been discharged from the hospital earlier in the day. However, MCSO said he returned to the facility despite tresspassing earlier that day.

Crestwood Hospital personnel contacted HPD requesting their help with the incident. Upon arrival, officers arrested Rigdon and transported him to the Madison County Sheriffs Facility for processing and detention.

Upon arrival at the facility, MCSO medical personnel determined that Rigdon had a history of medical issues and was suffering from a serious terminal condition and placed him in the jail infirmary.

MCSO said an on-call doctor was notified and provided medical orders for appropriate treatments for Rigdon.

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Jackson County Public Works to close County Road 30 for emergency bridge repair

Around 4:30 a.m. Monday, Rigdon was found unresponsive in his medical cell. Sheriffs Detention officers and medical staff members immediately began life-saving measures, but Rigdon was pronounced dead.

Sheriff Kevin Turner said, An in-custody death is always difficult for everyone involved: facility staff members, medical staff, and emergency first responders. We are extremely saddened to report the death of Mr. Rigdon and send our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

The Madison County Sheriffs Office is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Rigdons death. The cause of death is currently unknown and will be established through the autopsy and toxicology reports that the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences will conduct.

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Setting lobster traps in Casco Bay. (Photo by AnnMarie Hilton/Maine Morning Star)

Healthy coastal ecosystems play crucial roles in the U.S. economy, from supporting multibillion-dollar fisheries and tourism industries to protecting coastlines from storms.

Theyre also difficult to manage, requiring specialized knowledge and technology.

Thats why the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  the federal agency best known for collecting and analyzing the data that make weather forecasts and warnings possible  leads most of the governments work on ocean and coastal health, as well as research into the growing risks posed by climate change.

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The government estimates that NOAAs projects and services support more than one-third of the nations gross domestic product. Yet, this is one of the agencies that the Trump administration has targeted, with discussions of trying to privatize NOAAs forecasting operations and disband its crucial climate change research.

As a marine environmental historian who studies relationships among scientists, fishermen and environmentalists, I have seen how NOAAs work affects American livelihoods, coastal health and the U.S. economy.

Here are a few examples from just NOAAs coastal work, and what it means to fishing industries and coastal states.

Prevent fisheries from collapsing

One of the oldest divisions within NOAA is the National Marine Fisheries Service, known as NOAA Fisheries. It dates to 1871, when Congress created the U.S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries. At that time, the first generation of conservationists started to worry that Americas natural resources were finite.

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By conducting surveys and interviewing fishermen and seafood dealers, the fish commissioners discovered that freshwater and saltwater fisheries across the country were declining.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U1pGe_gVwh8&t=2s

Oil spills and raw sewage were polluting waterways. Fishermen were using high-tech gear, such as pound nets, to catch more and more of the most valuable fish. In some areas, overfishing was putting the future of the fisheries in jeopardy.

One solution was to promote aquaculture, also known as fish or shellfish farming. Scientists and entrepreneurs reared baby fish in hatcheries and transferred them to rivers, lakes or bays. The Fish Commission even used refrigerated railroad cars to ship fish eggs across the country.

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Today, U.S. aquaculture is a US$1.5 billion industry and the worlds fastest-growing food sector. Much of the salmon you see in grocery stores started as farm-raised hatchlings. NOAA provides training, grants and regional data to support the industry.

Men carry pails of fish specimens to a U.S. Fish Commission fish car  a train car designed specifically for transporting fish or fish eggs to stock U.S. rivers, lakes and coastal waters  in this historical photo. (Photo via Smithsonian Institution) Archives

NOAA Fisheries also helps to regulate commercial and recreational fishing to keep fish populations healthy and prevent them from crashing.

The 1976 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act and other laws implemented catch limits to prevent overfishing. To develop fair regulations and combat illegal practices, NOAA and its predecessors have worked with fishing organizations through regional fishery management councils for decades.

These industries generate $321 billion in sales and support 2.3 million jobs.

Restoring coastal reefs to help marine life thrive

NOAA also benefits U.S. coastal communities by restoring coral reefs.

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Corals build up reefs over centuries, creating cities of the sea. When theyre healthy, they provide nurseries that protect valuable fish species, like snapper, from predators. Reefs also attract tourism and protect coastlines by breaking up waves that cause storm-driven flooding and erosion.

The corals of Hawaii, Florida, Puerto Rico and other tropical areas provide over $3 billion a year in benefits  from sustaining marine ecosystems to recreation, including sport fishing.

However, reefs are vulnerable to pollution, acidification, heat stress and other damage. Warming water can cause coral bleaching events, as the world saw in 2023 and 2024.

NOAA monitors reef health. It also works with innovative restoration strategies, such as breeding strains of coral that resist bleaching, so reefs have a better chance of surviving as the planet warms.

Battling invasive species in the Great Lakes

A third important aspect of NOAAs coastal work involves controlling invasive species in Americas waters, including those that have menaced the Great Lakes.

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Zebra and quagga mussels, spiny water flea and dozens of other Eurasian organisms colonized the Great Lakes starting in the late 1900s after arriving in ballast water from transoceanic ships. These invaders have disrupted the Great Lakes food web and clogged cities water intake systems, causing at least $138 million in damage per year.

Zebra mussels found attached to this boat at an inspection station in Oregon show how easily invasive species can be moved. The boat had come from Texas and was on its way to Canada. (Photo by Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, CC BY-SA

In the Northwest Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, invasive lionfish, native to Asia and Australia, have spread, preying on native fish essential to coral reefs. Lionfish have become one of the worlds most damaging marine fish invasions.

NOAA works with the Coast Guard, U.S. Geological Survey and other organizations to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species. Stronger ballast water regulations developed through the agencys research have helped prevent new invasions in the Great Lakes.

Understanding climate change

One of NOAAs most crucial roles is its leadership in global research into understanding the causes and effects of climate change.

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The oil industry has known for decades that greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels would raise global temperatures.

Evidence and research from around the world have connected greenhouse gas emissions from human activities to climate change. The data have shown how rising temperatures have increased risks for coastal areas, including worsening heat waves and ocean acidification that harm marine life; raising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities with tidal flooding and higher storm surges; and contributing to more extreme storms.

NOAA conducts U.S. climate research and coordinates international climate research efforts, as well as producing the data and analysis for weather and ocean forecasting that coastal states rely on.

Why tear apart an irreplaceable resource?

Why tear apart an irreplaceable resource?

When Republican President Richard Nixon proposed consolidating several different agencies into NOAA in 1970, he told Congress that doing so would promote better protection of life and property from natural hazards, better understanding of the total environment and exploration and development leading to the intelligent use of our marine resources.

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The Trump administration is instead discussing tearing down NOAA. The administration has been erasing mentions of climate change from government research, websites and policies  despite the rising risks to communities across the nation. The next federal budget is likely to slash NOAAs funding.

Commercial meteorologists argue that much of NOAAs weather data and forecasting, crucial to coastal areas, couldnt be duplicated by the private sector.

As NOAA marks its 55th year, I believe its in the nations and the U.S. economys best interest to strengthen rather than dismantle this vital agency.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

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BERLIN (AP)  A driver rammed a car into a crowd Monday in the southwestern German city of Mannheim, and authorities said two people were killed and 11 others injured, five of them severely.

A 40-year-old German from the nearby state of Rhineland-Palatinate was detained and in a hospital after being injured, State Interior Minister Thomas Strobl of Baden-Wurttemberg, where Mannheim is based, told German news agency dpa.

He later told reporters in Mannheim that "as far as the specific motivation of the crime is concerned, we have no indication of an extremist or religious background at the moment. The motivation could rather be based in the person of the perpetrator himself.

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German police and prosecutors said Monday at a joint news conference that the driver intentionally rammed his car into people and is being investigated for murder and attempted murder.

They said the driver shot himself in the mouth when he was arrested and had to undergo medical treatment at a hospital. He could not yet be questioned.

While the driver did not seem to be ideologically motivated, prosecutors said that the man, whose identity was not revealed in line with German privacy rules, has several previous convictions.

He served a short prison sentence for assault more than 10 years ago, and was convicted for drunken driving. He had also been investigated for a hate speech offense on Facebook in 2018, for which he was fined, prosecutors said without giving further details.

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Investigators are also looking into the possibility that the driver may suffer from psychological problems.

Cars have been used as deadly weapons in several acts of violence in recent months in Germany.

Police said earlier that indications of a second perpetrator cannot be confirmed at this stage of the investigation. They said there was no more danger to the public.

Police spokesperson Stefan Wilhelm said a driver drove into people on Paradeplatz, a pedestrian street downtown, around noon, when workers come for lunch breaks. Local media reported a carnival market was taking place, meaning more visitors than usual in Mannheim, with a population of 326,000.

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Mannheim University Hospital said they were treating three people, two adults and a child, dpa reported. The other injured people were taken to different hospitals in the region.

Images from the scene showed parts of the downtown area cordoned off, with a heavy police presence. Officers gathered round a badly damaged black car.

Friedrich Merz, who likely will become Germany's next chancellor, wrote on X that the incident  as well as the terrible acts of the past few months  is an urgent reminder that we must do everything we can to prevent such acts. Outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz wrote on X that we mourn with the families of the victims of a senseless act of violence."

Last month, a 2-year-old girl and her mother died two days after they were injured in a car-ramming attack on a union demonstration in Munich. A 24-year-old Afghan man who came to Germany as an asylum-seeker was arrested, and prosecutors said he appeared to have an Islamic extremist motive.

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Last year, six people were killed and more than 200 injured when a car slammed into a Christmas market in the eastern city of Magdeburg. The suspect, who was arrested, is a 50-year-old doctor originally from Saudi Arabia who had expressed anti-Muslim views and support for the far-right, anti-immigrant Alternative For Germany party.

___

Associated Press writers Geir Moulson and Kirsten Grieshaber contributed to this report.
Rep. John Blanton, R-Salyersville, is back with a bill to create a new crime, "interference with a legislative proceeding," aimed at Capitol protesters who lawmakers think have gotten too loud. Above, Blanton presents a similar bill in March 2024. It was passed by the House but died in the Senate. (LRC Public Information)

Every legislative session has a theme.

In 2023, Kentuckys GOP obsessed over sexuality and doubled down on humiliating already-vulnerable trans kids.

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Last year, Reps. Jason Nemes and Jared Bauman drove the Safer Kentucky Act (omni)bus into law, which made homelessness a crime and inexplicably did not bother to address gun violence prevention.

This year, theyre playing with peoples lives. In other words, Making Kentucky Sick Again.

Following the conspiracy-theory medical advice of anti-vaccine crusader Robert F. Kennedy Jr., secretary of Health and Human Services in the Trump administration, the Kentucky Senate has made the boneheaded decision to create a task force to study what we already know: that vaccines save lives. Meanwhile, an unvaccinated child has died in Texas for the first time in a decade amidst a measles outbreak, and a case of measles has been reported here in the commonwealth.

House Bill 16 aims to get rid of basic water fluoridation. Kentucky currently requires water utilities serving more than 3,000 customers to add low levels of fluoride to drinking water which, according to the National Institutes of Health, helps prevent cavities and tooth decay. Rep. Ryan Dotson, R-Winchester, called fluoridation mass medicating without informed consent.

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House Bill 173 would preempt local government from maintaining a registry of residential rental properties for any purpose, including lead hazard assessment and correction.

Senate Bill 89 has opened the door to more pollution of groundwater, wetlands and small headwater streams.

House Bill 137 is an industry-backed bill that could exclude evidence gathered by citizens and community groups from being considered in proceedings to enforce air pollution rules.

Kissing the rings of millionaire and billionaire mine owners, Rep. John Blanton has filed House Bill 196 to reduce the required number of trained, certified coal miners who are able to respond to medical emergencies inside the mines.

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And because all of the above is not enough, Rep. Blanton has also filed House Bill 399  lets call it the Jail Loud Dissenters Act  because it seems our masculinity-obsessed GOP supermajority is terrified to hear from citizens who might too loudly express anger at their onslaught of dangerous, terrible bills.

This is not a joke.

Arrest authority and purview typically rest with law enforcement, but HB 399 would give the House speaker, Senate president, committee chairs and House and Senate sergeants-at-arms the authority to order the arrests of anyone they believe is guilty of a new criminal offense, interference with a legislative proceeding. First-degree interference with a legislative proceeding would be a Class A misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by up to one year in jail. Further offenses would be a Class D felony, which carries up to five years in prison.

Yes, this means what you think it means. Lawmakers want to cosplay as State Police and decide if you should be arrested.

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This has felt like an extraordinarily long winter.

Dangerously cold temperatures for days on end; ice and snow keeping children out of school; yet another devastating flood; the price of groceries is through the roof; a return of the measles (the measles!!); thousands of federal employees here in Kentucky getting the same emails going out nationally from unelected multibillionaire Elon Musks DOGE, demanding they prove their worth by listing five things they did last week or be fired.

Every legislative session has a theme.

Humiliating and terrifying the trans community in 2023.

Punishing the homeless and pretending to make us safer in 2024.

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Making Kentucky Sick Again in 2025.

I HOPE ELECTED REPUBLICANS ARE HAVING A GOOD TIME PLAYING WITH OUR LIVES.

Oh. Sorry, Rep. Blanton. Was that too loud under HB 399?

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LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  A man police said shot and killed a man inside a truck on a Las Vegas freeway over the weekend told police the victim threatened him and his family and he had no choice but to shoot him, according to documents 8 News Now obtained.

On Sunday, March 2, at around 7:15 a.m., officers with the North Las Vegas Police Department responded to the southbound Interstate 15, north of the Cheyenne Avenue off-ramp, after a man called 911 and said he shot someone inside a truck.

The person calling, later identified as Joseph De Luna, 28, told 911 he was threatened by someone and had no choice but to shoot him, according to an arrest report. He said they were in a truck on the shoulder of the highway.

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De Luna said the victim, who he called his friend, was deceased, and De Luna emptied [his] clip in him before putting his gun in the center console of the truck.

Arriving officers took De Luna into custody. Police found the victim, who the coroners office had not publicly identified as of Monday, in the back seat of the truck with multiple gunshot wounds. Medical personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

De Luna told detectives at the scene that he was hanging out on Fremont Street with the victim the night before, and the two decided to drive around. De Luna said he was drinking heavily and didnt remember where they drove, but said the victim told him he worked for a traffic cone company of some sort, the report stated.

De Luna said the victim told him he was going to work for him and if he didnt, the victim had the capability of hurting [De Luna] and his family, the report said.

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He told police he became concerned for his safety and put on his seatbelt before he reached over and put his truck into park while they drove. De Luna said the brakes locked up, the truck veered to the right shoulder, and they sideswiped the barrier bordering the freeway, according to the report.

De Luna said the victim said, What did you do that for? Now Im going to hurt you for real, and began shifting his body. De Luna said he thought the victim had a gun, so he shot the victim multiple times, the report stated. De Luna then moved the victim to the back seat and told police he didnt know why he did that.

According to the arrest report, there was no evidence the victim had a gun at the time of the shooting. Police found 12 cartridge cases in the truck.

De Luna said he called his girlfriend and said he killed someone before he called 911 and told the dispatcher.

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A family member of the victim told police he was with the victim and De Luna the night before the shooting, and while hanging out, De Luna began snorting cocaine and used it throughout the night, the report stated. The family member said they saw De Luna holding his gun at various times throughout the night.

They told police that De Luna confronted the victim about trying to talk to [De Luna]s ex-girlfriend but said the encounter was not violent. He also said De Luna was acting paranoid and at one point asked the victim to punch him in the face, according to the report.

Police booked De Luna into the North Las Vegas Community Correctional Center where he was held without bail. He faces a charge of open murder with a deadly weapon and his next court appearance was scheduled for March 4.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  A man with a violent criminal history is back behind bars, accused of shooting at a trooper with the South Dakota Highway Patrol.

65-year-old David Yocom was booked into the Minnehaha County Jail early this morning.

David Yocom

He faces several charges including eluding, shooting a gun from a car in city limits and aggravated assault on law enforcement.

Yocom is currently on parole for aggravated assault in a case that dates back to August of 2015 in which he hit his dentist with his car, recorded the crime and posted it on Facebook.

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Yocom is scheduled to make his first court appearance Monday afternoon.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC)  Rochester Police announced on Monday that officers have made an arrest following a 2024 quadruple shooting that left two men dead on Lyell Avenue.

On May 4, 2024, around 1:35 a.m. Rochester Police responded to the area of Lyell Avenue and Austin Street for a ShotSpotter activation and multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire.

According to police, officers found four people injured upon arrival, two men and two women. Jared Perry, 29, and Marquis Chambers, 31, were pronounced dead at the scene. A woman in her mid-twenties suffered a serious but non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the chest, and another woman in her mid-twenties suffered a minor graze wound to the lower body.

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During the investigation, Major Crimes Homicide Detectives identified the shooter as 29-year-old Lakwan Hannah. Police said Hannah was at the home on Lyell Avenue that same morning but left after an altercation between him and others, including the four victims.

According to Police, Hannah eventually returned, firing multiple rounds at the four victims, who were on the porch at the time. Within days of the shooting Detectives said Hannah fled New York State.

In February 2025, detectives said they found Hannah, who was arrested by the City of Euless, Texas Police Department on a drug charge. Police said during his arrest, he provided false identification and has been held in custody in Tarrant County Texas since the drug arrest.

Along with being Wanted for double murder, Police said Hannah had an outstanding Monroe County Violation of Probation warrant. He was placed on probation in February 2023 for a Criminal Possession of a Weapon (3rd) conviction.

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Hannah was charged with two counts of Murder (1st), two counts of Assault (2nd), and Criminal Possession of a Weapon (2nd and 3rd).

The Monroe County Sheriffs Office is working with Tarrant County Texas to have Hannah extradited back to New York State.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.
DETROIT  A federal jury convicted a Farmington Hills man last week in what prosecutors said was a racially-charged attack on a United States postal worker over presidential campaign material.

A three-day trial concluded Feb. 27 with a U.S. District Court jury finding Russell Valleau, 62, guilty of assaulting a federal employee. He was acquitted of a charge claiming he pulled a knife in the Sept. 26 attack against the Black postal worker.

The jury also unanimously found that Valleau intentionally selected the letter carrier as the object of his offense because of her actual or perceived race or color, prosecutors said in a statement. Evidence presented at the trial established that Valleau, angered by receiving a black persons mail in his mailbox, aggressively approached the passenger window of his letter carriers postal truck yelling racially charged insults at her.

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Russell Valleau, 62, is scheduled for a May 27 sentencing. His attorney James Amberg said the possible sentence is a year in prison on a misdemeanor assault charge.

Valleau's also scheduled for a June trial in Oakland County Circuit Court on charges of assault and battery and ethnic intimidation because of the same September incident with the postal worker.

This wasnt a big victory for the government, said Amberg, noting that Valleau could have spent decades in prison on the original charge alleging he pulled a knife in the assault.

He said Valleau was probably suffering from mental health and alcohol issues and living in a trailer with cardboard covering his windows when he encountered the postal worker.

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Amberg said Valleau continued to lash out after he was arrested, yelling at nurses and inanimate objects when taken to a hospital.

Prosecutors have said Valleau became upset upon receiving campaign material regarding Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris, and the postal worker tried to diffuse the situation by directing him to leave the unwanted mail in his mailbox.

Undeterred, Valleau continued his insults, now pointing the vitriol directly to the letter carrier, prosecutors said. When she asked him to step away from her vehicle, he attempted to attack her through her open passenger window. Valleau was only thwarted when the letter carrier sprayed him in the face with her USPS-issued mace and drove away.

U.S. Attorney Julie Beck said Valleau's behavior will not be tolerated.

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A letter carrier was simply trying to do her job, and this defendant physically attacked her while using racist and offensive language, she said.

Detroit Division Inspector in Charge Rodney Hopkins spoke for the postal systems law enforcement team.

Let this verdict be a warning to those who threaten, intimidate, or otherwise harm the dedicated men and women of USPS: We will arrest you, and we will seek to prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law, he said.

Contact editor Susan Vela at svela@lsj.com or 248-873-7044. Follow her on Twitter @susanvela.

This article originally appeared on Hometownlife.com: Man convicted after attack on postal worker over Kamala Harris mailer
SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW)  Police in Northeast Ohio are asking for the publics help in finding an armed and masked suspect who robbed a gas station over the weekend.

Springfield Township police posted photos of the suspect on social media.

Woman injured during overnight police chase: EMS

Courtesy: Springfield Township Police Department

Courtesy: Springfield Township Police Department

Courtesy: Springfield Township Police Department

According to police, the man in the mask walked into the BP gas station on S. Arlington Road on Sunday around 7:45 p.m.

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Despite an extensive search, the suspect was not located, police said.

Police said while the mask obscures the suspects face, they are asking the public to help see if there are any identifying features.

Man killed in Cleveland crash identified

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Brian Troyer at btroyer@springfieldtownship.us.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
GROESBECK, Texas (FOX 44)  A Limestone County grand jury has found a man guilty of Sexual Abuse of a Child.

The Groesbeck Police Department originally initiated an investigation on June 25, 2021 regarding a reported Sexual Assault of a Child. During this investigation, family members transported the victim, an eleven-year-old girl, out of the country and remained there until January 2023.

In February 2023, the department received information that the victim was returned to Texas, but her exact location was unknown. The department received information in March 2023 that the victim was seen at a residence in Groesbeck. Officers and representatives from Child Protective Services responded to the residence and took custody of the child. The case was ultimately presented to a grand jury.

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The suspect, identified as Joshua Weibye, was indicted and arrested. He remained in custody until trial.

TSTC police seize drugs, gun silencer, make arrest

The trial began in the 77th District Court of Limestone County on Monday, February 24, 2025. It concluded on Friday, February 28, 2025. The jury found Weibye guilty of Sexual Abuse of Child Continuous: Victim Under 14, a first-degree felony; four counts of Indecency with Child Sexual Contact, second-degree felonies; and Sexual Assault Prohibited/Purport Spouse, a first-degree felony.

The Police Department says Weibye elected to have punishment assessed by 77th District Judge Amy Ward. This sentencing will occur at a later date. Weibye is in the Limestone County Jail until his sentencing.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KWKT - FOX 44.
GALLATIN COUNTY, Ky. (FOX 56)  An investigation is underway in Gallatin County after an 18-year-old man was killed and a 20-year-old man was taken to the hospital following a Saturday night crash.

According to the Kentucky State Police Department (KSP), it happened near the Kentucky Highway 1039 intersection with Knox Lillard Road.

Sparta man turns himself in after trucks side mirror hits Boone County deputy during highway traffic stop

Just after 8:15 p.m. on Saturday, troopers with KSP Post 5 in Campbellsburg were dispatched to the scene of the crash. An initial investigation showed that a 2007 Chrysler minivan was heading north, driven by Kyle Jones, 18, of Ghent, when, for unknown reasons, he allegedly drove across the center line and hit a 2001 Chevrolet Tahoe, which was heading south, driven by Andrew Heichelbech, 20, of Owenton.

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

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Jones was reportedly pronounced dead at the scene by the Gallatin County Coroners Office, and Heichelbech was flown by helicopter to a hospital for treatment of his injuries.

An investigation into the deadly crash remains ongoing by KSP Post 5.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
(Reuters) - A man pleaded guilty to murder on Monday for a 2022 mass shooting at an Independence Day parade in a Chicago suburb that killed seven people, local media reported.

Robert Crimo III entered the guilty plea shortly before his trial was set to begin for the shooting in Highland Park that also injured over 40 people, the Chicago Tribune reported.

A judge set Crimo's sentencing hearing for April 23. Under law, Crimo will receive a life prison sentence, the newspaper reported.

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Crimo is accused of climbing on to the roof of a building in downtown Highland Park, a suburb 25 miles (40 km) north of Chicago, and opening fire on spectators and participants at the parade.

A synagogue teacher, a Mexican grandfather, and the parents of a two-year-old were among the victims.

(Reporting By Andrew Hay; editing by Donna Bryson and Nia Williams)
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  A Portsmouth man was sentenced after trying to take a gun through Transportation Security Administration at Norfolk International Airport, and then providing an ID with a fake name.

On May 2, 2024, a Transportation Security Officer saw an object in the shape of a gun in the backpack of 28-year-old Wayman Randall, according to court documents.

Norfolk International Police Department were notified and Randall was taken to a private screening room. Randall provided officers with a false Virginia ID that showed his picture but with the name Ethan Walker  the same name that matched his ticket for American Airlines.

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Randall admitted there was a firearm in his bag and gave his real name, date of birth and social security number.

Police found a loaded, stolen handgun. Randall had been convicted previously of receiving stolen goods, use or display of a firearm in commission of a felony, robbery and prohibited criminal street gang participation. As a felon, Randall cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

Randall was sentenced to four years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

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DENVER (KDVR)  A suspect who drove around deputies in an unoccupied patrol cruiser suffered serious injuries after being shot in Fort Collins Monday morning.

At around 2:45 a.m., the Larimer County Sheriffs Office said a deputy conducted a traffic stop near Prospect Road and Riverside Avenue in Fort Collins.

An adult female driver stopped and spoke to the deputy before exiting the vehicle when requested, according to the sheriffs office. However, deputies said an adult male passenger entered the drivers seat when the woman vacated it and left the scene.

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The sheriffs office said deputies followed the vehicle with their lights and sirens activated. The male driver reportedly eluded deputies for several miles through north Fort Collins.

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The driver eventually came to a stop when the vehicle crashed into a ditch in the 2600 block of Terry Lake Road near CO 1.

The Larimer County Sheriffs Office said the suspect got out of the vehicle and reportedly approached deputies with a knife in his hand. The sheriffs office said the man then got into an unoccupied patrol cruiser and began driving around the deputies, who were on foot.

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One deputy fired his weapon and hit the suspect, the sheriffs office said. The suspect was removed from the vehicle and received medical attention before being taken to a local hospital with serious injuries.

The Critical Incident Response Team was called and the investigation into the deputy-involved shooting is ongoing.

CO 1 was closed for approximately 10 hours between Gregory Road and Country Club Road while investigators processed the scene. The area is near Terry Lake and Long Pond Reservoir.

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HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM)  On this day in 1931, it became the law of the land: The Star Spangled Banner was the official national anthem of the United States of America.

The selection of the song was not without controversy, some of which continues to this day. Objections to it range from the tune used for the anthem, to the politics of the poet, to the fact our National Anthem is excruciatingly difficult to sing.

The original Star Spangled Banner, a 30 foot by 42 foot Garrison Flag, now on display at the Smithsonian Institute. (Courtesy: Smithsonian Institute)

York Revolution attempt to set National Anthem world record

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The Star Spangled Banner had its beginnings in September of 1814 when Francis Scott Key observed the fight for Fort McHenry, which guarded the entrance to Baltimore harbor. Thrilled by the sight of the American flag still flying over the fort after a night of bombardment by the British, he wrote a four stanza poem Defence of Fort MHenry. Before long it was set to music-To Anacreon in Heaven, a somewhat bawdy (by the standards of the time) and very popular British drinking song. (A lot of people have objected to the song because of the ancestry of that tune.)

One of the first published versions of the Star Spangled Banner, from 1814. (Courtesy: Wikipedia)

The song became extremely popular, especially after the somewhat ho-hum original title was changed to The Star Spangled Banner. People started to propose it as the official national anthem. But it had competition. Tunes like Hail, Columbia, America the Beautiful, and My Country, Tis of Thee, were also popular, and also used for official occasions.

Northern singers know their anthem

Still, The Star Spangled Banner grew in popularity, especially after the Civil War. It began to get official acknowledgment; The U.S. Army started playing it at retreats, parades, and concerts, and it was officially recognized for use by the U.S. Navy in 1889, especially for raisings of the American flag.

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But over the years, people made alterations to the music and the wording. By the early 20th century, there were multiple versions of the song floating about. President Woodrow Wilson, who ordered military bands to play the song at patriotic occasions in 1916, called upon the U.S. Bureau of Education to come up with a standard edition for popular use. The Bureau called upon five musicians for help-Walter Damrosch, Will Earhart, Arnold J. Gantvoort, Oscar Sonnedk, and most notably John Philip Sousa, Americas March King. Americans got to hear this standardized version for the first time on December 5, 1917, when it premiered at Carnegie Hall.

On April 15, 1929, Rep. John Linthicum of Maryland introduced legislation to make The Star Spangled Banner the national anthem for the sixth time. The time, it would seem, was finally right; the legislation was approved out of committee, passed in the House of Representatives, and on March 3, 1931, it passed in the Senate, and President Herbert Hoover signed it into law.

Some Americans call for replacement of The Star-Spangled Banner with new national anthem

Here is the complete version of The Star Spangled Banner. Usually, only the first verse gets performed at ball games and the like. On some occasions, the fourth verse gets tacked on. The second and third stanzas? Well, some people dont like the foes mighty host part in verse two, since after all, weve kinda mended fences with Britain since then. Stanza three can really stick in peoples crawls. Some people feel that hireling and slave is an endorsement of slavery. (Key was a slave owner.) Other people feel thats a complete misinterpretation of the lyrics. Theres a lot of argument back and forth on the internet, as well as reputable sources. Do your own research and come to your own conclusions-that is, after all, part of living in a free country.

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O say can you see, by the dawns early light,

What so proudly we hailed at the twilights last gleaming,

Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight,

Oer the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming?

And the rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air,

Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there;

O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave

Oer the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep,

Where the foes haughty host in dread silence reposes,

What is that which the breeze, oer the towering steep,

As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?

Now it catches the gleam of the mornings first beam,

In full glory reflected now shines in the stream:

Tis the star-spangled banner, O long may it wave

Oer the land of the free and the home of the brave.

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore

That the havoc of war and the battles confusion,

A home and a country, should leave us no more?

Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps pollution.

No refuge could save the hireling and slave

From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave:

And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave,

Oer the land of the free and the home of the brave.

O thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand

Between their loved homes and the wars desolation.

Blest with victry and peace, may the Heavn rescued land

Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation!

Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,

And this be our motto: In God is our trust.

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave

Oer the land of the free and the home of the brave![55]

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To see Francis Scott Keys early draft of the song, click here

To view a transcript of Keys early draft, click here

To view a performance of To Anacreon in Heaven, click here

The view one of the greatest performances of The Star Spangled Banner of all time, click here

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Swiss National Bank (SNB) President Martin Schlegel has rejected the idea of holding bitcoin as part of Switzerlands central bank reserves, citing a lack of stability, liquidity, and security, according to local media.

Speaking to the Tamedia group, Schlegel cited three primary concerns surrounding cryptocurrencies. The first one is their volatility, which he said makes them unsuitable for long-term value preservation.

Second, our reserves need to be highly liquid so that they can be used quickly for monetary policy purposes if needed, Schlegel told Tamedia before pointing to a lack of security inherent in being software-based assets. We all know that software can have bugs and other weak points.

The Swiss National Bank Presidents words come amid a growing debate in Switzerland over the nascent asset class. A recent initiative is pushing for a constitutional amendment requiring the SNB to hold bitcoin in its reserves alongside gold, the article said.

The initiative, launched in December and led by entrepreneur Yves Bennaim, does not go into details when it comes to the bitcoin allocations but specifies it should be built up from the banks earnings. It has 18 months to collect 100,000 signatures in a bid to trigger a nationwide vote on the topic.

Despite Switzerlands growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies, with various Swiss banks offering customers cryptocurrency-related services, Schlegel dismissed the asset class as a niche phenomenon. Currencies, he told Tamedia, have already been in competition, and Schlegel maintained the bank is not afraid of competition from cryptocurrencies, citing the continued strength of the Swiss franc.
Parades on Mardi Gras day have been canceled in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, and altered in New Orleans due to the dangers posed by extreme winds that could reach 60 mph in the area on Fat Tuesday.

"The range of where we consider it dangerous and we bring in our people is around 30 to 35 mph," Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng said at a news conference Monday, noting that transit buses stop operating when winds reach 35 mph.

PHOTO: Performers march during the Krewe of Endymion Parade during the Krewe of Endymion Parade during Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, Louisiana, on March 1, 2024. (Sandy Huffaker/AFP via Getty Images)

MORE: Additional tactical teams, police in New Orleans for Mardi Gras

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The gusty winds will be severe enough that there's "no other choice" but to cancel Tuesday's scheduled parades in the parish, which is just outside of New Orleans, she said.

"These are not conditions where we would invite family, including the elderly and children, to stand on our streets out in the open," Sheng said. "These are not conditions for people to be elevated on floats, God forbid, having a float tip over and there's people on the street just under those floats."

PHOTO: Parade crew throws beads to revelers during the Krewe of Endymion Parade during the Krewe of Endymion Parade during Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, Louisiana, on March 1, 2024. (Sandy Huffaker/AFP via Getty Images)

MORE: New storm bringing blizzard conditions to Heartland, tornadoes to the South

The winds also bring the danger of flying debris, like tents and chairs, she said.

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"I know many, many people have planned all year long for tomorrow ... and I know there are many, many scheduled parties for tomorrow. But Mother Nature has just decided not to work with us," Sheng said.

"I have to look at the safety first," she said.

In the city of New Orleans, police said the timing of Tuesday's parades have been adjusted, and police warned they'll cancel the events if wind gusts become even higher than anticipated.

"After tonight, no tents or tarps should be left out along the parade route, and none will be allowed tomorrow," the police department said Monday. "Please help us keep the route clear after tonight & before tomorrow to ensure a safe & smooth Mardi Gras for all."

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Damaging winds are the biggest threat from the severe thunderstorms expected to strike Louisiana on Tuesday, but an isolated tornado and flash flooding are also possible.

PHOTO: Severe weather threat Tuesday. (ABC News Illustration)

"This is disappointing for all of us," Sheng said, adding, "We still have a lot of festivities today."

Mardi Gras celebrations ramp up one week before the day itself, with about five days of parades across the city culminating in a final day of parades on Mardi Gras Tuesday.

Mardi Gras parades canceled due to extreme winds: Mother Nature 'decided not to work with us' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Police on Monday identified the man killed in a crash that happened in Hyattsville last week and are asking anyone with further information to come forward.

Just before 7 p.m. on Feb. 28, officers responded to a crash involving two vehicles in the 5400 block of Tuxedo Road.

The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said 36-year-old Sehirbie Rouse of Brentwood, Md., was traveling east on Tuxedo Road when, for reasons now under investigation, he crossed over into the westbound lanes and struck another vehicle.

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Power outages at BWI cause flight delays

Rouse was taken to the hospital, where he died.

The second driver suffered minor injuries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PGPDs Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Unit at 301-731-4422.

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MARYSVILLE, Ohio (WCMH)  A central Ohio LGBTQ-friendly brewery that was targeted on social media by a local conservative group has permanently closed.

Walking Distance Brewing Co. at 222 E. Eighth St. in Marysville welcomed patrons for the last time on Feb. 28, more than three years after it opened in October 2021. Owner Teddy Valinski announced the closure on social media, saying the decision to shutter the bar didnt come lightly.

Ohio Intel plant construction in New Albany delayed by at least three years

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We are so thankful for the community that we built together. And we are confident that the community weve built with you will continue to have a positive impact in Marysville, said Valinski in the post. Thanks for the three whimsical and zany years.

Walking Distance was home to a collection of stouts, IPAs and lagers, along with a seltzer made in-house that was enhanced with lemonade and margarita flavoring. The brewery also served as a community meeting spot for events like Columbus Crew watch parties, fundraisers supporting the local library, and LGBTQ+ Pride celebrations.

While the brewerys Pride events were meant to further inclusion for Marysvilles LGBTQ+ community, Valinski said on social media last June that Walking Distance faced a year of slander and harassment from a group named the Union County Faith Family Coalition.

Members of the coalition began taking to social media during the summer of 2023 to denounce the brewerys drag queen shows, hurling unfounded accusations of pedophilia and grooming. Valinski cited posts by Leslie Reams, a coalition member and the wife of city councilman Mark Reams, who called the brewery a den of depravity.

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Ohio State cuts diversity offices, programming

Inviting children to a bar and having drag queens teaching them to dance for cash tips from the drunks is the very definition of grooming, a post by Reams states. If you are okay with that kind of behavior, then you might be a pedophile.

Valinski wrote that Walking Distances sales dipped after Reams posts garnered traction on social media. While the owner said the brewery will never know exactly how much business we lost due to the slander, he emphasized Walking Distances commitment to inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community.

In another social media post last summer, the coalition said this isnt about people and their own personal sexual preferences but rather the children being exposed to adult material. The coalition asked for an open dialogue with Walking Distance and LGBTQ+ advocates, while also arguing that Pride events were causing division in Marysville and suggesting the brewery should host sexually explicit performances in other central Ohio cities.

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I think if youre honest in your hearts you know this too, an entire month of Pride wouldnt be necessary if you were truly proud of it, the groups post said. Youre more than who you like to sleep with or the clothes you want to wear. You were made for more than chasing dopamine hits until you die.

U.S. Supreme Court likely to side with Ohio womans reverse discrimination claim

The coalitions posts against the brewerys drag shows came as the Ohio Statehouse was reviewing a proposed bill that opponents said would amount to a ban of drag queens in public. The measure wouldve prohibited adult cabaret performances, defined as a show harmful to juveniles that features entertainers who exhibit a gender identity that is different from the performers or entertainers gender assigned at birth.

A conservative Lancaster group advocated for city council to adopt a measure with the same language after they argued a performance during a Pride event with a drag queen was pornographic. Small business owners in Lancaster said they experienced an influx of customers after their shops were included on a social media post tying them to the debated event.

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Bellefontaine, a rural Ohio city, was originally supposed to be the first in the state to vote on whether to ban such performances in public. However, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled in October 2023 that the proposed ordinance, which also used the adult cabaret performance wording, would not appear on the ballot given it was submitted fraudulently.

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CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  As we are three days into March, MassWildlife officials are reminding residents that this month is when hungry bears come out from their winter dens and seek food.

National Consumer Protection Week: Learn your rights and how to keep your data safe

MassWildlife states that there are at least 4,500 black bears in Massachusetts and their range is expanding eastward. If you live in northern Middlesex County, Worcester County, western Massachusetts, or other areas where bears have been spotted, there are certain steps you should take to prevent conflicts with black bears.

MassWildlife

Remove bird feeders from your yard: Black bears in western Massachusetts will eat natural foods such as acorns, berries and plants but will always prefer the easiest meal your bird feeders. Bird feeders attract many types of wild animals that could then keep coming back into your yard.

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If you are interested in making your yard more bird-friendly, MassWildlife recommends adding a bird bath or growing native plants and trees that these birds prefer.

Properly secure and store food sources: Weve all seen videos of bears tearing through garbage bins for food, but this can be avoided. Avoid putting your garbage outside until the morning of the roadside pickup. If you store it in a garage or shed, make sure the area is properly closed off to the outside.

If you have livestock, chickens or bees on your property, make sure to properly secure them to prevent bears from accessing them. The state provides electric fencing guides on its website for those interested in protecting chickens or bee hives.

Protect your pets: Black bears may look nonaggressive while they are roaming through your yard, but the presence of a dog could trigger the bear to become aggressive. Make sure to check your yard for any bears before releasing your pets outside and keep dogs leashed at all times when you are out for a walk. Never let your dog chase or interact with a bear.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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MASSENA, N.Y. (WWTI)  A 30-year-old Massena man is facing multiple charges after an alleged robbery at a St. Lawrence County convenience store.

According to the Massena Police Department, Austin Barr was charged second-degree robbery, petit larceny, third-degree assault, criminal obstruction of breathing and second-degree harassment.

Hermon man charged with kidnapping and fleeing police

The charges stem from an alleged incident at the Sunoco Gas Station in Massena on Monday, February 10.

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Barr was arraigned in the Town of Massena Court and remanded to the St. Lawrence County Jail on $20,000 bail.

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EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The El Paso Chamber will host its 2025 State of the City event this week.

The event will happen from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 6 at the El Paso Convention Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza.

Mayor Renard Johnson and members of the City Council will discuss their vision, priorities and the future of the City.

The event will include conversations with the El Paso City Council and a fireside chat featuring Mayor Johnson, providing a unique opportunity for the community to hear directly from local leadership about the policies and initiatives shaping El Pasos growth, the Chamber said in a news release.

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You can click here to find out about tickets and sponsoring opportunities.

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A measles alert has been issued in New Jersey after three cases of the highly contagious virus were confirmed in the states most populous county.

An unvaccinated resident in Bergen County contracted measles after returning from a trip overseas. The person spread it to two others, according to the New Jersey Department of Health. All three are unvaccinated.

The state health department issued the alert Thursday, a day after Texas authorities confirmed an unvaccinated child in the Lone Star State died of a measles infection, marking the first death from the virus in the US since 2015.

Three measles cases were confirmed in Bergen County, New Jersey. AFP via Getty Images

The measles alert issued in New Jersey comes after the highly contagious disease took ahold of a close-knit and under-vaccinated Texas community. stock.adobe.com

NJDOH advises anyone who visited Englewood Hospitals emergency department between 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 9 to monitor for symptoms, which could appear as late as March 6, the health department said.

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The department is also working to contact trace anyone else who might have been exposed but emphasized that any patient, staffer or visitor who was at the hospital between those hours should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Those who suspect they might have been exposed should first call their doctor before heading to a facility so that they dont risk infecting more people.

One case of measles was also reported in Pennsylvania. stock.adobe.com

New Jerseys alert comes after an outbreak swept through Texas, infecting 146 and counting with 20 hospitalized and a child dead, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Another measles case was also confirmed in an unvaccinated child in Montgomery County, Pa. on Sunday, according to the Montgomery County Department of Health.

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The measles spread has pushed many to highlight the importance of lifesaving vaccines like the MMR. Many have called on Robert F Kennedy Jr.  the newly confirmed United States Secretary of Health and Human Services who has infamously come out against vaccines  to speak on the outbreak and visit the communities most affected to try and sway the needle.

Kennedy has largely downplayed the Texas outbreak  largely confined to a close-knit religious community with low vaccination numbers  saying measles cases were not unusual.

Measles was all but eradicated from the US as of 2000 after a decades-long vaccination campaign. New cases now only pop up in the country when contracted abroad, according to the CDC.

Measles vaccines require two doses and last for life. tashatuvango  stock.adobe.com

Kindergarteners entering public schools nationwide are required to be vaccinated for measles  but since the COVID-19 pandemic, most states kindergarten-aged populations have dropped below the 95% vaccination threshold considered vital for stopping measles outbreaks.

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A majority of those in the Northeast are vaccinated, but theres been a slight downward trend.

More than 93% of New Jersey kindergarteners received the MMR vaccine last year, but the percentage was still down one percent from just over 94% in 2022, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 97% were vaccinated in New York and Connecticut in both years.

Federal MMR vaccination rates meanwhile fell by about 2.5% from 2020 to 2024, according to the CDC.

Anyone who thinks they may have contracted measles should call their doctor before going to the office to limit their contact with others. CDC

Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease. Bacteria can remain in the air for up to two hours after anyone who has contracted it coughs or sneezes, according to the NJDOH.

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Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes and a rash that usually appears between three and five days after symptoms begin.

Those most at risk are people not fully vaccinated or who have not had the measles before. The MMR vaccine is two doses and typically provides lifelong protection against the disease.
The measles outbreak in Texas continues to grow, with nearly 150 reported cases, and more could be exposed.

The outbreak in West Texas has killed one person, a child, making it the first U.S. measles death in a decade.

State and local health officials say hundreds of thousands of people in San Antonio could have been exposed over Valentines Day weekend. A person visiting the area for the weekend later tested positive, KSAT12 reported.

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Its very possible that this person could have come in contact with, if not hundreds, thousands of our community residents, as well as visitors, said Anita Kurian, San Antonio Metropolitan Health District deputy director of communicable disease, per NBC News. We are a destination city. We have real great concern of potential large community wide exposures at these public sites.

Its a highly transmissible virus, where one infected person can infect 9 out of 10 people they come in contact with.

As of Friday, 164 cases have been reported nationally, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Officials say most of the community is vaccinated against the virus, but the threat remains. Vaccination proves to be a controversial, yet effective, measure in combating the virus, as just five of the infected are vaccinated.

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Officials expect most cases to be confirmed later this week, as it takes time to see an exposure.

Most of the states cases have been among school-age children, with more than 80 percent found in people younger than 18.

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As a measles outbreak in Texas has grown to nearly 150 cases, US Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said in an opinion piece on Fox News on Sunday that parents should consult with health-care providers to understand their options to get the MMR vaccine for their children.

Kennedy did not explicitly recommend the vaccine, but said the outbreak was a call to action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health.

The decision to vaccinate is a personal one, Kennedy wrote. Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

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Kennedys statement on measles vaccination appeared in the piece after a paragraph emphasizing treatment, such as vitamin A, for people who are sick. There is no approved antiviral to treat measles.

Kennedy also wrote that health-care providers, leaders and policymakers need to ensure that accurate information about vaccine safety and efficacy is disseminated. We must engage with communities to understand their concerns, provide culturally competent education, and make vaccines readily accessible for all those who want them. In a post on X on Friday, Kennedy had said that HHS was providing technical support and vaccines to the state of Texas, as well as lab support, outreach materials in Low German  a language commonly used by the Mennonite community in West Texas  and daily communication with local officials.

Still, Kennedys vaccine comments are in striking contrast to those from former HHS Sec. Alex Azar during the last large measles outbreak in 2019: We cannot say this enough: Vaccines are a safe and highly effective public health tool that can prevent this disease and end the current outbreak. The measles vaccine is among the most-studied medical products we have and is given safely to millions of children and adults each year. I encourage all Americans to talk to your doctor about what vaccines are recommended to protect you, your family, and your community from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Kennedy has a history of antivaccine comments, including saying no vaccine is safe and effective and tying vaccines to the rise in autism. Studies have found the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is safe and effective: Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective and studies have shown theres no link between autism and the MMR vaccine. During the Texas outbreak, the US Centers for Disease Control and local health officials have continued to recommend vaccination against measles.

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However, MMR vaccine coverage is declining across the country. For four years, the US has fallen short of the 95% threshold set by HHS to help prevent outbreaks of the highly contagious disease.

The outbreak in West Texas has led to 146 measles cases since late January, the majority of them among people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. There have been 20 patients hospitalized and one death, an unvaccinated school-age child, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. Its the largest outbreak the state has seen in 30 years, officials say.

When asked about the outbreak during President Donald Trumps first cabinet meeting last week, Kennedy said that measles outbreaks are not unusual. However, measles was eliminated in the US in 2000. Experts say some cases are still expected  particularly imported cases associated with international travel  and the US has reported at least a dozen cases each year since reaching elimination status, according to data from the CDC. However, infectious disease experts and local health officials said outbreaks the size and speed of the Texas outbreak are unusual since vaccination became available.

In the decade before the introduction of the MMR vaccine in 1963, there were 400 to 500 US measles deaths per year. Until the death of the child in Texas, there had not been a measles death in the US since 2015 and the country had not seen a measles death in a child since 2003.

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Measles cases have risen in recent years, with 285 US cases reported last year, the most since 2019 when prolonged outbreaks among under vaccinated communities in New York threatened elimination status, according to the CDC. Declining vaccination rates are driving up the number of cases.

CNN Healths Neha Mukherjee, Jacqueline Howard and Meg Tirrell contributed to this report.

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AUSTIN (Nexstar)  The measles outbreak continues to spread in Texas as the states Commissioner of the Department of State Health Services spoke to a committee of lawmakers Monday about the growing distrust of vaccines and the agencys attempts to fight the virus.

Dr. Jennifer Shuford, the DSHS Commissioner, said Monday the case count was up to 158 people. She presented those numbers to the Texas House Committee on Public Health as the state faces a measles outbreak it has not seen in 30 years.

On Tuesday, DSHS latest update revealed an additional case, moving the case count to 159.

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Measles is highly contagious, Dr. Shuford explained. Its probably the most contagious virus that we know of. She said school-age children between the ages of 5 and 17 are the most impacted group followed by children under the age of four.

One school-aged child died and 20 people have been hospitalized, due to this outbreak, according to Dr. Shuford. A majority of the confirmed cases are located in Gaines County and spreading to the surrounding counties in the South Plains and Panhandle region.

States response to outbreak

Dr. Shuford said the state set up two specimen collection sites in the most impacted area to help increase the speed of testing for the virus. Most of the testing is being done at a lab in Austin, but DSHS is working with El Paso, Tarrant, and Bexar counties to boost their measles testing capacity at their public health labs.

The state has also set up vaccine sites that operate 7-days a week. We just want to have vaccine available for whichever providers can give those vaccines, especially in that outbreak community, Dr. Shuford said.

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If someone is exposed to the virus the state is trying to get that person a vaccine within 72 hours of exposure. It may prevent that person from being sick or make their symptoms less severe. If the state misses that 72-hour window it is also providing immunoglobulin injections, which is a treatment that puts antibodies in the body to strengthen the immune system.

The agency is also looking at pediatric hospital bed capacity. Part of that is communicating with hospitals around the states to get a look at the available hospital beds, including pediatric ICU beds in the state. Most of the infected people are being hospitalized in Lubbock, and the state is making sure there are beds available in case Lubbock becomes overwhelmed.

Questions over vaccinations

Dr. Shuford reported the state expects the cases to keep growing because of the lack of measles vaccination rates in Texas. The state says the best defense against measles is the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine which has been in use in the United States for more than 50 years.

We are concerned about our MMR coverage across our state, knowing that its lower than some other places across the United States, and that this particular region has lower vaccination rates, Dr. Shuford said.

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State Rep. John Bucy III, D-Austin asked the commissioner why vaccination rates are so low in some areas of Texas. Whats going on, especially if weve eliminated this disease in 2000, Bucy asked.

There has been just some decreased interest or distrust in vaccines, and thats caused a decrease in vaccination rates, Dr. Shuford explained. It is part of a growing debate in the country about whether people should vaccinate. The question of whether or not someone should vaccinate themselves has become a political talking point.

If someone chooses not to get the vaccine, not because of health reasons, but they choose not to get it living in a denser population or community, theyre not just impacting their own safety. They could be impacting the safety of their neighbors and their communities, correct, Bucy asked.

Theyre allowing it to be able to spread to other people, Dr. Shuford responded.

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Rep. James Frank, R  Wichita Falls, followed Bucys questioning and asked if anyone infected in this outbreak was already vaccinated. Dr. Shuford said yes, but that it is hard to tell how many and if they were people who were given the vaccine after they had already been exposed to the virus.

I think some of the distrust is caused, I think, in some parts rightly or wrongly by perceived information, or sometimes actual misinformation coming from people in authority, Frank said. The measles vaccine seems a very clear case something we should do, and yet there are other things that are called vaccines that sometimes I dont think operate like vaccines and dont keep you from getting it.

The DSHS is working with the CDC to promote the use of the MMR vaccine as it fights this recent outbreak.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Longtime vaccine hater Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. appears to be walking back his own skepticism amid a significant measles outbreak spanning states including Texas, California, New Jersey, and more.

In an op-ed for Fox News  yes, the same media giant that's spent years fearmongering about vaccines  the new Health and Human Services secretary said it was "crucial" that everyone gets the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine after a school-aged child in the Longhorn State became the "first measles-related fatality in the United States in over a decade."

The allegedly brainwormed health secretary didn't mention that the deceased child wasn't vaccinated against MMR  or that last week, when asked about that child's death, he claimed that measles outbreaks are "not unusual."

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"We have measles outbreaks every year," the political scion said during his first-ever meeting of cabinet secretaries. "There are two people who have died, but we are watching it."

It's unclear whether Kennedy simply misspoke when referring to an additional measles death or if he was aware of something we're not. What is clear, however, is that he's done an about-face in the days since that flippant remark  and that his own vaccine skepticism is glaringly absent from his more recent messaging about MMR.

When appearing before the Senate Finance Committee for his confirmation hearings in January, RFK Jr. attempted to distance himself from the "antivax" label by noting that all of his children were vaccinated. The new HHS secretary conveniently forgot to mention that he previously claimed to regret getting his kids vaccinated  and that he used to be chairman of Children's Health Defense, an influential anti-vaccine nonprofit that got kicked off of Instagram and Facebook in 2022 for spreading medical disinformation.

"What would I do if I could go back in time and I could avoid giving my children the vaccines that I gave them?" Kennedy said in a 2020 podcast appearance on behalf of Children's Health Defense. "I would do anything for that. I would pay anything to be able to do that."

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Despite paying lip service to the "crucial" nature of vaccines to stop the spread of the highly contagious measles disease, the HHS secretary let the mask slip momentarily in his op-ed.

"The decision to vaccinate," Kennedy wrote for Fox, "is a personal one."

More on RFK: Trump Said We Should Kill Drug Dealers. Then He Appointed One as Health Secretary
Corporal Dakota Louis Meyer is a United States Marine. He received a Medal of Honor for his service in Afghanistan during the War on Terrorism. He grew up in the small town of Columbia, Kentucky, and joined the Marine Corps in 2006. Meyer served with the Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7.

Dakota Meyers Action in Afghanistan

In September 2009, Dakota Meyer was stationed in the Kunar Province of Eastern Afghanistan. Then, on September 8, he gathered his gear and headed out to a patrol rally point just outside the village of Ganjgal. While Meyer stood watch at his station, other members of his platoon traveled into Ganjgal for an early meeting with local Afghan leadership. Soon after the service members departed, the rattle of machine guns echoed off the jagged mountain walls. Meyer heard explosions and suspected foul play.

He soon received word that enemy combatants had ambushed his fellow service members as they marched into Ganjgal. The Taliban had learned about the morning meeting, and several of its members had planned an armed assault against the Americans and their allies.

Ganjgals difficult terrain

Ganjgal is nestled steep in the hills of Afghanistan, where houses sit on treacherous cliffs above the winding roads. Enemy fighters had positioned themselves at high points on rooftops and in doorways. As the Americans entered, the members of the Taliban launched grenades down at the soldiers and fired on them with machine guns. With no helicopters to offer aerial coverage that morning, the Americans were at a tactical disadvantage.

Sgt. (then Cpl.) Dakota Meyer and Gunnery Sgt. (then-Staff Sgt.) Aaron Kenefick in Ganjgal Village, Kunar province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

At least three of Meyers comrades were missing. Others reported injuries. Meyer left his post at the rally point and attempted a rescue. As he crossed into Ganjgal, aggressive enemy fire shook the terrain. Dodging bullets, he pressed forward in search of this fellow servicemen. Eventually, he discovered several were dead. The Taliban had stripped the fallen American soldiers of their guns and radios.

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One of the enemy combatants was attempting to carry the American bodies away just as Meyer arrived. Quickly, Meyer charged the combatant and subdued him by beating him with a large rock.

With the help of a few surviving Afghan soldiers, Meyer moved the bodies to a secure location. He then assisted other wounded military personnel. By the time the evacuation team arrived, Meyer had killed numerous Taliban fighters. He played a major part in ending the morning ambush and would be remembered for his significant role in the Battle of Ganjgal.

Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer delivers remarks to sailors and Marines during an all-hands call on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer is the flagship for the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and, with the embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Veronica Mammina/Released)

On September 15, 2011, President Obama awarded Corporal Meyer the Medal of Honor for his courageous action in Ganjgal. Meyer became the first living Marine to receive a Medal of Honor in nearly four decades.

Interested in learning more about other OIF and OEF veterans who have earned the Medal of Honor? Heres a profile of an American service member who helped save the life of a hostage. Read more about the remarkable life of Dakota Meyer here.

How to support the Medal of Honor mission

Learn more about the Congressional Medal of Honor Society at cmohs.org or find them on Instagram |Facebook

Participate in Medal of Honor Day on March 25 by sharing a recipients story

Support veteran hiring and transition programs in your workplace

Teach younger generations about the values of courage, sacrifice, and service

Medal of Honor Month isnt just about recognizing history. Its about keeping the mission alive for the future. Observe Medal of Honor March on We Are The Mighty here.
Theyre the Big Apples worst transit terrors.

The five worst subway career criminals in the five boroughs have a whopping 590 busts between them  including more than 100 arrests for violent felonies like robbery and rape, The Post has learned.

The five repeat offenders were among hundreds of transit terrors rounded up under a quality of life pilot program at NYPD transit districts in Brooklyn and Queens  and three of the alleged criminals are now behind bars.

Robert Davis, 56, has been arrested 129 times in his criminal career, making him one of the worst transit offenders. Obtained by the NY Post

Its encouraging that we can prove that with proper enforcement of the laws, shockingly, we can get actual known, wanted, dangerous people off the streets and out of the subway system without doing indiscriminate round ups,' one law enforcement source said.

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NYPD brass launched the pilot at Transit District 20 in Queens and Transit District 34 in Brooklyn, with the initiative paying quick dividends, according to stats reviewed by The Post.

The pilot program has New Yorks Finest reviving old-school policing by questioning straphangers caught committing quality-of-life crimes like smoking in the subways or carrying weapons.

Where cops in the past typically just shooed the minor offenders out of subway stations  knowing they would typically just walk away under the states lax criminal justice reforms  they now ask for ID.

The NYPD launched pilot programs in two transit districts to target quality of life crimes  and its paying off. Michael Nagle

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced a new Quality of Life division last week to clamp down on aggressive panhandlers. Stephen Yang

The result, police stats show, is that cops are nabbing hundreds of suspects for more serious crimes, including dozens who were being sought on outstanding criminal warrants, the statistics show.

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Since the initiative was launched in district 20 on Jan. 18 and district 34 on Feb. 17, police have issued summonses to 671 offenders and arrested 313 on more serious criminal charges  including 180 who were sought on active warrants, the stats show.

Its not hammers all the time, nor is it always a feather, the source said. But when you manage to get a guy with over a hundred arrests and in a known gang, maybe reasonable people can finally see the sense in having level-headed enforcement.

Jorge Molina, 36, has 128 arrests on his rap sheet, including 60 for serious felony charges, records show. Obtained by the NY Post

Kenney Mitchell, 28, is the youngest of the five worst subway offenders in the Big Apple, with 116 arrests on his record. Obtained by the NY Post

Among the notorious career criminals picked up in the new effort was Robert Davis, 56, who has been arrested 129 times in the past, 19 of those for felonies that included nine robbery busts.

Davis, a reputed member of the Latin Kings now at Rikers Island on $3,000 bail, was stopped when cops spotted him between cars on Queens Boulevard  and was found to have at least five active warrants.

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Jorge Molina, 36, has 128 arrests under his belt  60 for felony offenses, including 52 burglary busts. Molina is now behind bars on $7,500 bail, correction department records show.

Also arrested was Kenney Mitchell, a career offender with 116 arrests, mostly for lesser crimes.

Mitchell, the youngest of the five at 28, is at Rikers on $5,000 bail.

Two others, William Watts and Pablo Colon, remain free without bail despite a string of prior arrests.

Watts, 57, has 114 prior arrests, including three for robbery and two for assault, records show.

Pablo Colon, 56, has been arrested 103 times, making him one of the worst transit recidivists. Obtained by the NY Post

William Watts, 57, has been arrested 114 times, including for robbery and assault, records show. Obtained by the NY Post

Colon, a 56-year-old recidivist, has 103 arrests on his record, including 16 felony charges for burglary, robbery, assault and grand larceny.

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The transit initiative came on the eve of Police Commissioner Jessica Tischs announcement of a new Quality of Life division last week to clamp down on aggressive panhandlers, open air drug use and vagrants in the streets and subways.

The division will be finalized in the coming months, Tisch said.
NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA  Last week, we told you about four exceptional Delaware students who earned academic all-state honors.

Grove High School Seniors Brecklynn Carnes and Joseph Wang, Colcords Vince Minard, and Kansas High School Alexa Schwabe were selected out of 100 students from across the state. They will be honored at the 2025 Academic Awards Celebration on May 10 and receive a $1,500 award, an honor cord, and a medallion.

What happens if the Department of Education is abolished?

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Meet these generation changers below:

Brecklynn Carnes, Grove High School

Carnes plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in biochemistry.

AP Scholar with Honors

Integris Hospital intern

Senior Class President

Math Club President

Interact Club President

Character Counts Club President

Heritage Club Vice President

National Indigenous Recognition Program member

Member of the Grove Varsity Cheerleading squad

Involved with her church worship team and youth group

Vince Minard, Colcord High School

Minard plans to attend Columbia University and major in political science.

Valedictorian

Gates Scholarship finalist

Questbridge Match Scholar

First Colcord student to attend an Ivy League university

Class President

Student Council President

BPA President

Academic Team Captain

Oklahoma House of Representatives page

Vince enjoys long hikes and time with family

Alexa Schwabe, Kansas High School

Schwabe plans to attend the University of Tulsa and major in Applied Mathematics.

Co-Valedictorian

Advanced Placement Scholar

Coca-Cola Scholarship Regional Finalist

Oklahoma Board of Regents Academic Scholar Nominee

Rural/Small Town, Hispanic, and Indigenous National Recognition Program Awards

Student Council President

Senior Class Vice President

Yearbook editor

Chess Club secretary

Maintained a community Little Free Library since 2019.

Active in her high schools drama club, academic team, FCA chapter, and local church. She enjoys reading novels, watching classical cinema, and playing piano in her free time.

Joseph Wang, Grove High School

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Salutatorian

National Merit Commended Student

AP Scholar with Distinction

U.S. Presidential Scholars Candidate

Scored a perfect score on the ACT

Received the College Board Rural & Small Town Recognition Award

Won the 2024 Congressional App Challenge

State Winner of the 2022 Americanism Essay Contest

President and lead programmer of his FIRST Robotics team helped them become 2022 regional champions, 2023 regional finalists, and 2024 Woodie Flowers Finalist Award winners.

Wang volunteers with his church and serves in leadership roles across multiple school organizations.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNF/KODE | FourStatesHomepage.com.
Melania Trump on Monday lobbied on Capitol Hill for a bill that would make it a federal crime to post intimate imagery online, whether real or fake, and said it was heartbreaking to see what teenagers and especially girls go through after they are victimized by people who spread such content.

It was her first solo public appearance since she resumed the role of first lady on Jan. 20. She called on the Republican-controlled Congress to prioritize the well-being of young people.

This toxic environment can be severely damaging. We must prioritize their well-being by equipping them with the support and tools necessary to navigate this hostile digital landscape, she said during a roundtable discussion about the Take It Down Act" at the U.S. Capitol.

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Every young person deserves a safe online space to express themself freely, without the looming threat of exploitation or harm, she said.

The Senate passed the Take It Down Act in February, and Melania Trump's public backing could help usher it through the Republican-controlled House and to President Donald Trump's desk to become law. The bill's chief sponsors are Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, and Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., and Reps. Maria Salazar, R-Fla., and Madeleine Dean, D-Pa.

Cruz, who hosted the discussion in the Capitol's Mansfield Room, told the first lady that her leadership is incredibly important and Im confident its going to play a critical role in accelerating the passage of this bill and getting it passed into law."

He said the measure was inspired by Elliston Berry and her mother, who visited his office after Snapchat refused for nearly a year to remove an AI-generated nonconsensual graphic image, also known as a deepfake," of the then 14-year-old. Elliston and other victims shared their stories Monday.

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Meta, which owns and operates Facebook and Instagram, supports the legislation.

The bill would make it a federal crime to knowingly publish or threaten to publish intimate imagery online without an individual's consent, including realistic, computer-generated intimate images of people who can be identified. Social media platforms would have 48 hours to remove such images and take steps to delete duplicate content after a victim's request.

Having an intimate image  real or AI-generated - shared without consent can be devastating and Meta developed and backs many efforts to help prevent it, communications director Andy Stone said on X.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., also attended the roundtable and expressed his support for the bill but offered no timetable for a vote.

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We are anxious to put it on the floor in the House, to get it to President Trumps desk for his signature because weve got to do what we can to stop this, and I am a full supporter of it, Johnson said.

The first lady also took a swipe at Democrats, saying she expected more of them to participate in the discussion. California Rep. Ro Khanna was the only Democrat in the room.

"Surely as adults, we can prioritize America's children ahead of partisan politics, she said.

The first lady's appearance alongside Cruz came years after the senator and her husband campaigned bitterly for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. At one point, Trump falsely accused Cruz of being behind an ad released by an anti-Trump super PAC that featured a racy photo of Melania Trump, a former fashion model, that was taken during a GQ photo shoot.

In the first Trump administration, Melania Trump led a youth initiative she named  Be Best, which included a focus on online safety. She has said shes interested in reviving the program.
Melania Trump will tackle revenge porn and deepfakes in her first public comments since becoming first lady for the second time.

Mrs Trump is set to host a roundtable to discuss the Take It Down Act, which aims to clamp down on the non-consensual sharing of sexual images and videos.

Deepfake porn uses AI to create illicit videos by superimposing a persons face into pornographic content without their consent.

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Deepfakes currently occupy something of a legal grey area in the US, with some states like Indiana, Texas and Virginia enacting laws.

There is no national legislation criminalising the fakes, however revenge porn, the leaking of sexual content without consent, is illegal in 49 states.

Melania and Donald Trump with their son Barron on election night last year - The Washington Post

Speaking on Monday afternoon, Mrs Trump warned that the threat of privacy breaches is alarmingly high for children.

She said: In an era where digital interactions are eternal, it is imperative we safeguard children from mean spirited and hurtful online behaviour.

Mrs Trump highlighted the case of Elliston Berry, a 15-year-old girl from Texas who was the victim of AI-generated deepfake porn.

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The first lady said that users superimposed her face onto pornographic content solely to humiliate her.

Ellistons family contacted the social media companies for help, Mrs Trump said. Their efforts fell upon deaf ears.

Ultimately the fake images circulated worldwide.

Its heartbreaking to witness young teens, especially girls, grappling with overwhelming challenges posed by malicious online content like deepfakes.

This toxic environment can be severely damaging.

Hostile digital landscape

Mrs Trump added that young people deserved to be protected from a hostile digital landscape and the looming threat of exploitation or harm.

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Senator Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican, said that Ms Berry was just 14 when a classmate used an innocent photo, taken from her from Instagram, to make AI-generated porn.

Mr Cruz said nine months on, the images of Ms Berry were still up and that he had to call the head of Instagram to finally remove them, prompting Mrs Trump to nod her head in agreement.

Mrs Trump listened intently as Ms Berry, who sat next to her, talked about how she was violated all over social media and my innocence was stripped away.

It is so inspiring to know my voice is being heard, Ms Berry said.

Trump to take on new issues

Mrs Trumps meeting on Capitol Hill will be an opportunity to return to her campaigning for safer internet use.

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After Mr Trump took office for the first time, Mrs Trump launched her Be Best initiative to combat online bullying but it struggled as critics pointed out Donald Trump, her husband, used social media to do just that.

While Mrs Trump is not publicly known to have been a victim of revenge or deepfake porn, nude images of her from her modelling days were published by the New York Post in 2016 during Mr Trumps first presidential campaign.

They were shot by photographer Ale de Basseville in 1996 in New York and published in Max, a French magazine.

However Mrs Trump said last year during a promotional video for her memoir that her nude shots were a celebration of the human form.

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Mrs Trump signalled her interest in online safety in October and said she could take on new issues.

She told Fox News: Children are suffering. We need to help them and educate them.

A 2023 study found there had been a 550 per cent rise in the manipulated content since 2019, much of it fuelled by AI.

The Take It Down Act was introduced by Mr Cruz and would criminalise the publication of non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII) including material generated by AI.

Social media companies and websites would be obliged to introduce procedures to remove any content when it was flagged.

A bill has passed the Senate but has not yet cleared the House, however Mrs Trumps support could ensure it gets approved.

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The Take It Down Act was in part a response to the controversy last year around deepfake videos of Taylor Swift which circulated on social media.

The clips were shared tens of millions of times on X, formerly Twitter, which is owned by Elon Musk, before the social network temporarily barred users from searching for Swifts name.

Ms Swift reportedly considered legal action but tracking down the originators of the images is extremely difficult.

Last month actress Scarlett Johansson warned about AI misuse after a video circulated online of her and other Jewish celebrities protesting against rapper Kanye West for selling T-shirts with a swastika on them.

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While Ms Johansson said she did not support hate speech she did not officially appear in the clip, which also featured Steven Spielberg, Adam Sandler, Sacha Baron Cohen and Natalie Portman.

The Take It Down Act has attracted some opposition including from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a digital privacy campaign group.

It says that the bill threatens free expression because it mandates a takedown system without addressing the problem it claims to solve.

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POLK COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA)  A wildfire which sparked Saturday in Polk County has been 30% contained as of Monday morning, according to fire officials.

The North Carolina Forestry Service and Polk County Emergency Management reports the Melrose Fire is up to 593 acres in size with 63% contained.

The fire is now larger than the 431-acre wildfire which ignited in nearby Henderson County in 2023.

Firefighting crews will be starting back burn operations soon and working to reinforce existing fire lines. Crews are continuing to protect homes in the area from the fire.

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A burn ban remains in effect for Polk and McDowell counties as of Monday morning.

We will continue to provide updates as they become available.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
The News

The UKs development finance institution, British International Investment (BII), agreed a $50 million deal with Ghana International Bank (GHIB) to boost trade in seven African countries.

The agreement  which will see GHIB lend to businesses through local banks in Sierra Leone, Liberia, The Gambia, Benin, DR Congo, Rwanda, and Tanzania  aims to expand access to finance in frontier markets where firms lack the backing of global banks due to perceived credit risks, officials from BII and GHIB told Semafor.

The new partnership aims to deploy capital for the biggest impact by helping local businesses import the commodities and equipment needed to scale their businesses and increase trade, Kwabena Asante-Poku, BIIs country director for Ghana, said. Efforts to increase trade volumes will create jobs and spur economic growth through the multiplier effect, GHIB CEO Dean Adansi added.

Know More

Africa faces a trade finance deficit of up to $120 billion, according to the International Trade and Forfaiting Association. The gap represents the shortfall between the demand and supply for trade finance on the continent.

Adansi  whose bank is headquartered in London despite being owned by Ghanaian financial institutions  said there was an urgent need to counteract the risk premium associated with Africa, particularly because cuts expected in Washingtons Development Finance Corporation (DFC) under US President Donald Trumps administration were likely to have a harmful impact.

There isnt enough capital locally to support the commercial opportunities that arise over time, and the DFIs [development finance institutions] have been a huge financial support base for financial institutions, he said.

BII officials said GHIB would work with around 25 local banks in the target countries and the program was expected to last three years.

Step Back

Africas trade deficit most acutely affects small and medium-sized enterprises, the ones with the lowest access to the credit needed to trade.

Several international banks have withdrawn from African markets in recent years  citing low profitability, high risk, and economic shocks  further reducing access to financial services. Standard Chartered Bank, for example, left Angola, Cameroon, Gambia, Sierra Leone, and Zimbabwe in 2022. And Barclays has reduced its presence on the continent since 2017.

Notable
The University of Nebraska at Kearney campus. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

The unfortunate advent of Legislative Bill 552 in the Nebraska Legislatures hopper once again exposes the tentacles of national politics creeping into the states process of making policy.

State Sen. Loren Lippincotts proposed law would require public Nebraska postsecondary institutions to forgo anything that remotely resembles a nod toward diversity, equity and inclusion, known as DEI, the latest histrionic being promulgated by the current White House.

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Indeed, the removal of any vestige of efforts to give those in marginalized groups opportunities historically unavailable to them has a prime position in the presidents executive order parade.

Lippincott ratcheted up his argument for LB 552 with a recent newspaper column in which he related several personal anecdotes of problems from his commercial airline pilot days, the result, apparently, of the skin color of air traffic controllers and their bosses.

His point appeared to be a classic case of projection  pushing for the idea that we shouldnt be making decisions based on skin color when he did just that.

Facts matter

DEI detractors insist we should be developing a colorblind society, one based strictly on merit. That means jobs, college admissions, promotions, contracts, whatever would be awarded according to ability. Fine  except for the facts. You remember the facts dont you?

University of Nebraska at Omaha students walk on campus in September 2024. (Cindy Gonzalez/Nebraska Examiner)

For starters, tell us just how individuals can prove merit when their race, gender, sexuality, age, culture, language, religion or even their opinion keeps them from getting a chance to do so. Moreover, too often those wagging a finger in our faces about merit are preaching to an endless on-deck circle from where they started: on third base.

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Plus, merit-based systems rarely achieve their goals because weve baked favoritism into the process. Getting inside that track remains all but impossible for a wide swath of Americans, many of whom are in communities which anti-DEI sentiments aim to keep on the sidelines.

In his book Tyranny of Merit: Whats Become of the Common Good? Harvard professor Michael Sandel, addressing scandals in college admissions, wrote  the problem with meritocracy is not with the principle but with our failure to live up to it.

Meritocracies thrive when the proverbial playing field is level. For example, while a standardized test is designed to reward and expose merit, the data clearly shows that a students family income is a more common predictor of scores than absolute merit.

Ironically, its often sports, what some call the toy department of life, where ability wins out  along with diversity, equity and inclusion. For details, head to a game near you.

Room to decide

The impetus for much of todays infatuation with undermining DEI efforts is the U.S. Supreme Courts decision in 2023 to end affirmative action. But, as University of Chicago law professor Sonja Starr wrote recently, the Supremes decision did not render racial diversity an unlawful interest  indeed, it described that interest as commendable and worthy. Courts have long distinguished between benign racial objectives, such as diversity, and invidious ones, such as segregation. The Supreme Court did not change that distinction. What it changed were the means that schools can use to pursue diversity: They now must be race-neutral.

A luncheon crowd listens to Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly during the Flyover Fintech conference at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

To which I might add a private sector update: After behemoths such as Walmart, Target, Amazon and McDonalds did away with DEI efforts, in the last couple weeks shareholders at Apple and John Deere joined Costco in rejecting efforts to eighty-six DEI programs. The votes were not close.

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LB 552 has some troubling details, too.

For example, the law includes the prohibition of Describing structures, systems, relations of power, privilege, or subordination on the basis of race, sex, color, gender, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

To this layman, that sounds as though were prohibiting college students from getting instruction that details the causes, conditions and consequences of slavery, as well as accounts that reveal seminal chapters in our American history such as the Stonewall Uprising, the Tuskegee narratives  both the airmen and the syphilis studies, the work of Cesar Chavez and the eventual formation of the United Farm Workers and the path Ruth Bader-Ginsberg took to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Most troubling in the anti-DEI movement, however, is the tone and tenor of the discussion, which on the low end reminds Amercians that left unchecked, such language and attitudes can and have eventually ended with brownshirts and white hoods.

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Lets give the states public colleges and the University of Nebraska unfettered license to challenge its faculty, administrators and students to find true merit in diversity, equity and inclusion efforts rather than to make believe the fields of play and progress are always level.

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The Lincoln Walks at Midnight Statue sits in front of the West Virginia state Capitol building in Charleston, W.Va. (Lexi Browning | West Virginia Watch)

Until we make it personal, empathy vanishes.

After reading that state GOP lawmakers are seeking to remove rape and incest exemption from West Virginias near total abortion ban, I was reminded of a conversation I had a number of years ago with a colleague about West Virginias Catholic bishop facing charges of inappropriate sexual behavior. And recently, another diocesan priest was accused of inappropriate behavior.

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I will never be judge and jury, yet even as I made attempts to hear the charges from the priest himself, I was accused of passing judgment. I recognized that movement on his part as clear deflection.

In discussions with a co-worker, who is the father of young boys, I mentioned that the bishop had apologized for any hurt/pain he may have caused, even as he maintained his innocence, as countless Catholic clergy before him had done. My colleague remarked that maybe the bishop was sorry. It was at that moment that divine intervention slipped in and I said, Would you be that forgiving, that accepting, that dismissive if a member of the clergy had acted like that to one of your sons? His expression turned ashen. That was answer enough for me; and then he said, I hadnt thought about that.

When will we think about the laws that are being enacted on a personal level? When will we put ourselves in the situation thats up for debate? When will we move beyond the stark black letters on a stark white background and excavate what lies beneath the surface?

As our state lawmakers hold tight to a black and white world, we need to find a way to make certain that they consider the issues by asking themselves, What if this situation were to happen to someone I hold dear, to someone I love? Empathy is on a much too lengthy hiatus. It must be resurrected if we are to have any modicum of decency to combat the starkness of black and white. Very little is that simple.

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In the summer of 2022, I wrote a commentary for the Charleston Gazette-Mail after the reversal of Roe v. Wade. It is crystal clear to all who know me that I am against abortion. Pay attention to the bold pronoun. Thats me. I also firmly believe that every woman has the right to make that choice for herself, along with her physician.

My commentary stated that when the reversal was announced, I cried in a way that was closer to a howl. And later that day, I received an email from a co-worker who is fanatically against abortion who wrote, Now those women who have been protected as they chose abortion, will die by their own hand, as we take those measures from them, like they have taken the life of a child, and sacrifice their own life. Read the Old Testament. Read those two sentences again. Almost three years later, those words frighten me even more than when I first read them. They will always frighten me.

Lets bury the potential cruelty and judgement and destruction that would most assuredly accompany these proposed laws, if they should be adopted. How did we get here? To reiterate my earlier plea, ask yourself, Would I feel differently if a loved one were to be raped or became a victim to incest and a pregnancy resulted? Make. It. Personal. Because in the end, its nothing but personal.

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The March 9, 1916, edition of The New Mexican bore news of the first foreign invasion of U.S. soil since the War of 1812.

VILLA INVADES THE U.S. the headline blared. Bandits burn and kill in Columbus, read the sub-headline below it.

One of the wire service stories below is headlined  Death to Americans Panchos cry; wants to choke hated gringo. Another article, also from an unspecified wire service, tells quite the story: American torn from wifes arms, shot like a dog and roasted.

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American Citizens on American Soil Enticed From Home by Blood-Mad Torch-Squad of Mexican Brutes and Shot Down; Murderers Laugh at Womans Frantic Appeals for Mercy; Bandits Go Through Hotel Firing Into Rooms at Defenseless Occupants, the headline below it elaborates.

Earlier that day, around 2:30 a.m., about 485 Mexican revolutionary troops under the command of Francisco Pancho Villa crossed the border into the United States, as Friedrich Katz describes in his 1998 book The Life and Times of Pancho Villa.

Though its not known if Villa crossed the border himself, he gave his troops coordinated, strategic instructions beforehand. One group would attack the border town of Columbus, just north of Puerto Palomas, Mexico, from the north while another would attack from the southwest.

By around 4 a.m., troops were in position and started to move in.

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Map

A display at the Pancho Villa State Park Visitors Center in Columbus showing Villas 1916 attack on the city.

Fred Griffin, a U.S. Army sentry, was reportedly the first to be shot dead by the Villistas  his death alerting the rest of the town.

Villas stealthy coordination of the attack had gone out the window. The quiet town had heard the shots, and the organized military operation turned to chaos.

While some Villistas focused the attack on the towns barracks and military presence, others looted buildings and set them ablaze.

As legend goes, the towns clock tower was struck in the early minutes of the raid, freezing the clock at 4:11 a.m. forever  a snapshot of the attack, now on display in Santa Fes New Mexico History Museum.

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Around 5:30 a.m., a Villista bugler sounded the order for retreat, and the revolutionary troops fled south to the border, many riding U.S. cavalry horses they had stolen during the raid.

When the dust settled, 17 Americans lay dead in the streets, including 10 civilians. Villas men took more casualties than the Americans, amounting to at least 70 dead, and at least seven captured, six of whom were later hanged, as reported by The New Mexican.

U.S. troops followed in pursuit of Villas about 15 miles into Mexico, failing to capture Villa but killing a few retreating attackers.

That incursion into Mexico would kick off an 11-month Punitive Expedition, led by Brig. Gen. John Black Jack Pershing, which led around 100,000 troops into Mexico in a failed effort to apprehend Villa.

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Plane

A model plane at the Pancho Villa State Park Visitors Center in Columbus similar to the ones that would have been used during Brig. Gen. John Black Jack Pershings unsuccessful Punitive Expedition seeking to capture Villa. The expedition marked the first use of motorized vehicles and aircrafts for U.S. Army operations.

There was an upside to the expedition for the U.S., though  it marked the first use of motorized vehicles and aircrafts for U.S. Army operations. While the planes had no guns or bombs, they proved to be valuable scouts for the U.S., and pilots earned expertise in military aircraft which would prove useful in the soon-to-follow World War I.

New Mexican calls for blood

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ENOUGH, reads the headline of a New Mexican article printed March 10, the day after the raid.

The article goes on to claim the attack as proof the U.S.-supported Mexican President, Venustiano Carranza, is unable to restore or maintain order in Mexico, and to express an ode of support to the U.S. troops entering Mexico in pursuit of the raiders.

This newspaper believes we have had enough of mere punish-after the fact, what we want is punishment that will mean prevention.

The New Mexican goes on to write the only adequate measure to prevent Villista violence would be nothing short of the death of Villa and every one of his followers involved in the raid, adding they should be shot down with no more consideration [than] that given a Gila monster or a rattlesnake.

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The article also misreports the number of Villista raiders as being a thousand bandits, with the real number likely less than half that.

Newspaper

The March 9, 1916, edition of The New Mexican, with news of Pancho Villas attack on Columbus.

On June 30 of that same year, The New Mexican reported the hanging of four Villistas in Deming for taking part in the Columbus raid, and the earlier hanging June 9 of two other men. One man, Jose Rodriguez, was granted a stay of execution and sentenced to life in prison.

This completes the disposition of the cases of the Columbus raiders, The New Mexican wrote.

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Why attack Columbus?

Why Villa ordered his troops to attack Columbus is still a point of debate for historians.

Were still trying to unfold those layers of history about him and trying to figure out what is myth and what is legend, said State Historian Robert Martinez.

One theory is that the raid aimed to kill one man  Sam Ravel, a merchant who supposedly absconded with money Villa gave him to buy weapons. At the time of the raid, Ravel was 80 miles away in El Paso for a doctors appointment.

Others center Villas desire for revenge against the United States.

Trail Dust: Questions remain about Villas raid on Columbus

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Pancho Villa rides at the head of his rebel army in Mexico in 1916. After Villa led a raid that year on Columbus, N.M., killing 17 Americans, U.S. soldiers pursued Villa into Mexico, but he eluded capture. He was assassinated by political enemies in Mexico in 1923.

In 1915, he was infuriated at Americas recognition of Carranza as legitimate president and humiliated by his armys defeat at the Battle of Celaya by Carranza. He suspected Carranza was aided by U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, who was rumored to have let Villas foes use U.S. railroads to transport their troops.

On Jan. 9, 1916, 17 Americans aboard a Mexico North-Western Railway train were pulled off by Villas forces, lined up and shot one by one. One Texan reportedly feigned death, returned to El Paso, and enraged the population with news of the attack.

On March 5, 1916, at least 20 Mexican prisoners were burned alive in El Paso after they were soaked in kerosene to delouse them and someone lit a match, by accident or not, resulting in the death by fire of all the men.

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Just four days later, Villa sent his men to burn and raid Columbus.

Martinez pushed back on the idea that revenge was in Villas mind alone. He argued instead the raid was one defining moment of Mexican-American tensions, which had been building for at least 60 years, he said, starting with the Mexican-American War, which ended in Mexico losing more than half of its territory including New Mexico.

Pancho Villa violated that border. But the Americans had violated that border before  and were violating it economically and politically during the revolution, which contributed to the tensions.

Tensions were also deeply felt by the agrarian peasant Mexican revolutionaries, who were displeased with both Mexican authorities and American interference with Mexico, Martinez said.

 People like Pancho Villa, Emiliano Zapata  theyre at the right place at the right time, but its not enough for there to be tension amongst the people. They have to be strong, charismatic leaders, he said, equating their folk hero status to figures like Daniel Boone, and Paul Bunyan.

People like Panchos army  they just didnt wake up one day and say, We have nothing else to do today. Lets raid into a little New Mexico town. There are reasons. Its just a little cloudy as to what they were  but thats history, said Martinez.

There is still debate today over the deadly attack. But if Villa being the namesake of dozens of Mexican restaurants across the country  including the Pancho Villa Burritos food truck in Columbus  is anything to go by, then its safe to say, at least in some circles, an admiration for him lives on.
Miami lawyer Daryl Bobby Fenton aka Daryl Fenton aka Bobby Fenton disappeared, at least professionally, and the Florida Bar investigators found cold trails when they looked for Fenton.

Fenton, who hadnt shown up for a clients criminal court hearing, had been evicted from his apartment in a luxury high rise popular with Instagram influencers. Also, when investigators went to Fentons Florida Bar address of record, they found a downtown Miami Irish pub.

A Miami Herald call to his business number found that line disconnected.

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Fentons been disbarred by the state Supreme Court, an action that will go into effect Saturday. Hed been a member of the Florida Bar since April 4, 2020, and managed to get himself into trouble even before he went ghost professionally.

Being behind on continuing legal education (CLE) requirements isnt uncommon among attorneys, but Fenton got so delinquent that he was ineligible to practice in 2023 from Nov. 15 to Nov. 27. That didnt stop him from filing a notice of appearance in a case on Nov. 21, 2023. The next day, his petition for Bar reinstatement said he didnt practice law in Florida while he was behind on his CLE credits.

Fenton didnt answer the Bar when it asked him to explain his claim.

Where did Bobby go?

Fenton filed a notice of appearance on Dec. 2, 2023 for Richardo Chardonnette, who was charged with misdemeanor resisting an officer without violence. But, the report by discipline case referee, Judge Stacy Glick, says come the Jan. 17, 2024 trial, Chardonnette stood alone at the defendants table.

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Mr. Chardonnette stated that he had no contact with [Fenton], who was not answering his phone calls, the referees report said. Judge (Robin) Faber called the phone number on [Fentons] pleadings, as well as a separate number listed on his bar member profile.

Emails from Faber got no response. Faber reset the trial for Jan. 24, 2024. Fenton didnt show up then, either. Faber appointed public defender Mariano Corcilli to represent Chardonnette and reported Fenton to the Bar.

Darryl Fenton

During the course of the bars investigation, it was discovered that [Fenton] respondent listed a misleading address as his record bar address, the referees report said.

Fentons address on his Florida Bar profile is 91 NW First St. Thats the address of The Auld Dubliner Irish Pub & Kitchen.

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The Bar investigator found a residential address for Fenton, the West Tower of River Landing Residences, 1480 NW North River Dr. As Miami-Dade civil court records state, however, Fenton had been evicted from unit No. 2103 in April 2023.

Fenton never answered any bar inquiries nor participated in any part of the process that led to his disbarment.
The Sinn Fein first minister of Northern Ireland said she had been incredulous that the British Government had put in an order with a Belfast plant for missiles for Ukraine.

Sir Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that the Thales plant in east Belfast would supply 5,000 air defence missiles to Ukraine in a deal worth up to 1.6 billion.

But Michelle ONeill, the vice-president of the republican party, said she would rather see the money invested in public services than in weapons of war.

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During the Troubles, Sinn Fein was the political wing of the IRA, which killed 1,800 people between 1969 and its final ceasefire, in 1997.

Sir Keir Starmer announced the deal for the Thales plant on Sunday - David Young/PA

In the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday, Ms ONeill said she had been incredulous at the deal at the time of public service cuts, winter fuel payment cuts, national insurance rises and inheritance tax changes for farmers.

I think at a time like that, rather than buying weapons of war, I would rather see the money invested in public services, she said.

The first minister also said she had felt the focus of the international community should always be to work towards negotiation and peace settlements.

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Our own example here will tell us that, she added.

Sir Keir said on Sunday that the lightweight multirole missiles would be made at the Thales weapons plant in Belfast, creating 200 jobs.

A Wildcat helicopter equipped with lightweight multirole missiles, which the Belfast factory will be making - Ministry of Defence/PA

This will be vital for protecting critical infrastructure now and [to] strengthen Ukraine in securing the peace when it comes, he said.

The missiles, which are capable of flying at 1.5 times the speed of sound and striking targets more than 3.7 miles away, can be used to attack enemy vehicles, boats and drones.

Earlier, during a press conference at Stormont, Gavin Robinson, the DUP leader, said the deal would be hugely significant for the Belfast workforce.

Gavin Robinson said the weapons deal would be hugely significant for Belfast - David Young/PA

Mr Robinson also described the heated Oval Office confrontation between Donald Trump, the US president, and Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, as appalling.

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However, he said political parties who would be boycotting events to mark St Patricks Day in Washington, but who said the White House visit of Micheal Martin, the Taoiseach, should go ahead, cant have it both ways.

It is a hugely significant order, he said.

It builds on not only the work that has been done to encourage defence contributions and spend in Northern Ireland, but it also recognises the significant contribution Thales has made to the ongoing efforts in Ukraine.

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Michigan gas prices again dropped below $3 a gallon on average  12 cents less than they were just a week ago and a new low for 2025.

But dont get too excited because they likely wont stay that way.

The lower prices are tied to a lower price of oil, falling to two-month lows and below $70 a barrel with hopes that there might be a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, but now that the deal is uncertain.

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But when oil prices are lower, thats when oil companies also start to drill less.

Tariffs, which may go into effect, also could raise prices and trigger trade wars.

Michigan drivers are now paying an average of $2.96 a gallon for regular unleaded, according to AAA motor club, which tracks prices at stations nationwide. This price is 7 cents less than a month ago, and 49 cents less than a year ago.

Throughout the state, average prices vary.

The most expensive averages were in Ann Arbor, $3.02 a gallon; metro Detroit, $3.01; and Marquette, $3; and the least, were in Benton Harbor, $2.88; Saginaw, $2.89 and Traverse City, $2.89.

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More: Metro Detroit weather forecasts predict warmer days ahead, but chance of snow lingers

"Given the volatility surrounding the tariff situation, forecasting fuel prices remains challenging, said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. He noted that "uncertainty lingers" along with "ongoing concerns about the Russian invasion of Ukraine."

De Haan said prices "edged slightly lower over the past week, even as geopolitical tensions intensify, with the Trump administration promising tariffs that could  create economic uncertainty."

Whats more, prices tend to go up in the spring and higher still in the summer.

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Oil and gas companies have indicated that tariffs also could drive up prices at the pump, with about 60% of the crude oil that the United States imports  particularly in the Midwest  coming from Canada, and less than 10% from Mexico.

Tariffs on steel, which is essential for drilling and pipes, could add more to companies' bottom lines that likely would be passed on to motorists in the form of higher prices at the pump.

And as consumers are less confident in the economy, they may opt to travel less.

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan gas prices fall, but tension, tariffs could push them up
The Michigan Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big. Heres a look at March 2, 2025, results for each game:

Winning Daily 3 numbers from March 2 drawing

Midday: 9-8-2

Evening: 9-8-6

Check Daily 3 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily 4 numbers from March 2 drawing

Midday: 3-2-3-6

Evening: 9-5-3-4

Check Daily 4 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Lucky For Life numbers from March 2 drawing

04-24-26-32-42, Lucky Ball: 12

Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Poker Lotto numbers from March 2 drawing

AS-4C-2H-2S-5S

Check Poker Lotto payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Fantasy 5 numbers from March 2 drawing

02-23-27-32-38

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06-16-22-36-38

Check Fantasy 5 payouts and previous drawings here.

Winning Daily Keno numbers from March 2 drawing

01-06-07-10-13-14-16-18-20-23-32-36-38-39-40-44-50-56-63-68-71-74

Check Daily Keno payouts and previous drawings here.

Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results

Are you a winner? Heres how to claim your lottery prize

All Michigan Lottery retailers can redeem prizes up to $600. For prizes up to $99,999.99, winners have the option to submit their claim by mail or in person at one of Michigan Lotterys Regional Offices.

To claim by mail, complete a ticket receipt form, sign your winning ticket, and send it along with original copies of your government-issued photo ID and Social Security card to the address below. Ensure the names on your ID and Social Security card match exactly. Claims should be mailed to:

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Michigan Lottery

Attn: Claim Center

101 E. Hillsdale

P.O. Box 30023

Lansing, MI 48909

For prizes over $100,000, winners must claim their prize in person at the Michigan Lottery Headquarters in Lansing located at 101 E. Hillsdale in downtown Lansing. Each winner must present original versions of a valid government-issued photo ID (typically a drivers license or state ID) and a Social Security card, ensuring that the names on both documents match exactly. To schedule an appointment, please call the Lottery Player Relations office at 844-887-6836, option 2.

If you prefer to claim in person at one of the Michigan Lottery Regional Offices for prizes under $100,000, appointments are required. Until further notice, please call 1-844-917-6325 to schedule an appointment. Regional office locations are as follows:

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Lansing: 101 E. Hillsdale St. Lansing; Phone: 844-917-6325

Livonia: 33231 Plymouth Road, Livonia; Phone: 844-917-6325

Sterling Heights: 34700 Dequindre Road, Sterling Heights; Phone: 844-917-6325

Detroit: Cadillac Place, 3060 W. Grand Blvd., Suite L-600, Detroit; Phone: 844-917-6325

Grand Rapids: 3391-B Plainfield Ave. NE, Grand Rapids; Phone: 844-917-6325

Saginaw: Jerome T. Hart State Office Building, 411 E. Genesee Ave., Saginaw; Phone: 844-917-6325

For additional information, downloadable forms, and instructions, visit the Michigan Lottery's prize claim page.

When are Michigan Lottery drawings held?

Daily 3 & Daily 4: Midday at 12:59 p.m., Evening at 7:29 p.m.

Fantasy 5: 7:29 p.m. daily

Poker Lotto: 7:29 p.m. daily

Lotto 47: 7:29 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday

Lucky for Life: 10:38 p.m. daily

Daily Keno: 7:29 p.m. daily

This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Michigan editor. You can send feedback using this form.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Lottery Daily 3, Daily 4 results for March 2, 2025
When Rabbi Asher Lopatin arrived two weeks ago in Syria for the first time, he was concerned, given the uncertain security situation in a country wrestling with change after the toppling of the previous government.

But his anxiety melted away after receiving a warm welcome while spending four days visiting several synagogues as part of a Jewish delegation visiting Syria. Lopatin, an interfaith leader in Michigan who is a director with the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, and another Jewish advocate in metro Detroit, were among five Jews from the U.S. visiting the Arab country. Part of the group included Jews of Syrian descent and two Jewish people from the Middle East who joined the five Americans for part of the trip.

"Everyone welcomed us, from the government to the individuals to children," Lopatin, who leads an Oak Park synagogue, Kehillat Etz Chayim, told the Free Press. "This really was a gesture by the government to show that Syria welcomes all Syrians, and it's for all Syrians, Jewish, Christian and Muslim. And that's exactly what we felt when we visited there. ... They loved us."

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Escorted around with government security, Lopatin often wore a kippah, a traditional Jewish cap, during his time traveling around the Damascus area, attracting some curious onlookers who asked to take photos with him. He said he never encountered any problems during the trip from Feb. 17-20. Syria once had vibrant Jewish communities, but most fled in the 1990s after then-Syrian President Hafez Assad lifted a travel ban on them. The most well-known Jewish person of Syrian descent in the U.S. is comedian Jerry Seinfeld, whose mother is part of a Syrian Jewish family that once lived in Aleppo, Syria.

The way the trip was organized was itself an example of interfaith harmony, which local leaders are hoping Syria can emulate as it rebuilds after decades of war and the dictatorship of the Assad family. The journey was put together by the Syrian Emergency Task Force, a group formed by Syrian Americans and others in 2011 to bring attention to human rights abuses by the government of then President Bashar Assad. Dr. Yahya Basha, a longtime Arab American and Muslim leader in Michigan born in Syria who opposed Assad, helped pay for the trip and airplane tickets for Lopatin.

"We have enough wars in the world and enough hate," Basha said. "We don't want it. We want people to love each other, for the good and well being of everybody."

Basha said he's hoping trips like this can convince Americans and others that Syria and other Arab countries are safe places to visit.

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"I want to broaden the scope," Basha said. "I want ... all Americans to feel comfortable traveling to the Middle East."

After arriving in Damascus, Lopatin and others were taken into a VIP area and driven "in special government cars," Lopatin said. "One of our drivers was a foreign ministry official."

Lopatin joined Rabbi Henry Hamra of New York, who used to live in Syria, in helping hold Torah scrolls while at the historic Elfrange, also called al-Faranj, synagogue in Damascus. It was the same synagogue where Hamra's son had his bar mitzvah about 35 years ago. During this visit, Hamra read from the same Torahs used at his son's bar mitzvah, an emotional moment for the delegation.

"We're really grateful that Syria and the Syrian people protected these places," said Lopatin, previously the executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council/American Jewish Committee, which disbanded last year. "It's a tribute to the few Jews that are there and to the Muslims that are there protecting those places. It's very special."

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Lopatin said the "welcome we got was just so different than Jews returning after the Holocaust to Poland or other places in Europe where they were chased out." There were even some riots against Jews returning to Europe after World War II, he said. And some Jewish people were also met with hostility when they tried visiting other Arab nations after the Arab spring uprisings a dozen years ago. But not in Syria during their visit, Lopatin said.

"They were giving us a lot of security, but frankly, we didn't feel we need it," except "to get through all the car traffic in Damascus," he said. "Everybody wanted to take a picture with us."

Lopatin recalls meeting a Jewish woman in Syria who wore what looked like a hijab, an Islamic headscarf.

"She's a very sweet woman," he said.

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Hamra said that Syria's foreign ministry has pledged to protect Jewish heritage, Reuters reported.

"We need the government's help, we need the government's security and it's going to happen," he said.

The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has caused some tensions in interfaith and cultural relations. Basha had been criticized by some Arab Americans after he signed a statement shortly after the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks, criticizing Hamas for carrying out the deadliest one-day attacks on Jews since the Holocaust. But Lopatin and Basha remain engaged over the years on interfaith relations.

"The culture change is not like a light switch where you can turn it on and off," Basha said. "You have to start somewhere and have the people like each other."

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More: Holocaust survivor in Michigan who supported immigrants, Palestinians dies at 87

In Syria, there has been some concern from minority and ethnic groups such as Orthodox Christians and Alawites, both of whom were generally protected under Assad's rule. The new leadership of Syria has said it will respect all groups, but there have been some incidents in recent months of some being attacked by fighters who were previously aligned with Al-Qaeda. The new president of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, was previously with Al-Qaeda and allied with ISIS.

There are about 15,000 Syrian Americans living in Michigan, many of them monitoring the future of Syria, with differing views about Syria's new leaders.

Lopatin said he's hopeful that people can change.

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"I know that there is probably going to be a lot of pressure on the government to" exclude Jews and other groups. But we need to "figure out how we can find ways to come together and work out mutual needs and listen to each other and listen to our differences."

Henry Hamra of New York and Rabbi Asher Lopatin of Michigan, part of a Jewish delegation who are visiting Syria for the first time in decades, hold a Torah Case in a Jewish synagogue in Damascus, Syria on Feb. 18, 2025.

The trip "was a great model" of cooperation between different groups, he said

Basha said the focus now is on helping Syrian refugees return, ending sanctions, building the economy and transforming the rebel fighters into leaders instead of "acting like terrorist groups. ... Hopefully, they will succeed at the journey."

Reuters contributed to this report.

Contact Niraj Warikoo: nwarikoo@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Jewish leaders visited Syria with support of Muslim leaders
Fresh-picked Maine blueberries. | Maine Morning Star

Gov. Janet Mills warned Mainers over the weekend that they are likely to pay more for everyday essentials if President Donald Trumps proposed tariffs on Canada go into effect tomorrow.

Since the start of his term, Trump has said he would impose a 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico  with a lower 10% tax on Canadian energy products such as oil and electricity  but postponed implementation after talking with those countrys leaders. However, the president said last week that the tax on imported goods will start Tuesday.

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In a radio address, Mills explained how Maines economy is intertwined with Canada. Last year, the two traded more than $6 billion in goods, she said. This includes about $1.5 billion in exports of many products from the states heritage industries including blueberries, lobsters and forest products, according to a fact sheet from the Canadian government.

Maine relies on its northern neighbor for about $5 billion worth of imports including heating oil, natural gas and electricity. Maine homes are highly dependent on oil and more than 80% of the states heating fuel and gasoline is imported from Canada.

I cant be clear enough: the presidents broad tariffs on Canada as well as China and Mexico will increase costs on Maine families and Maine businesses who can ill afford them, and they will cause great harm to our states economy, Mills said.

Mills gave a similar address in early February after Trump decided to postpone the tariffs on Canada by 30 days. She spoke of the president campaigning on lowering costs for Americans, which she supports. Though the month-long delay in imposing the tariffs offered a temporary reprieve, Mills said she hoped the president would decide not to pursue the tariffs and instead work with Congress to bring down costs.

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In social media posts, the president has said the tariffs, especially with bordering countries, will force them to crack down on illicit drug trafficking such as fentanyl. Trump also plans to double the 10% tariff imposed on China on Tuesday.

When Maine businesses pay higher tariffs to import materials such as building supplies or pay to export their products, those costs get passed along to consumers, Mills said, adding that it comes at a time when we can least afford it.

Before the tariffs were postponed in early February, the Maine Office of Public Advocate raised concern about how it would affect energy customers, especially 58,000 ratepayers in Aroostook and Washington counties who live along the border and have little choice but to rely on Canadian energy to keep their lights on.

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The Milwaukee Police Department is investigating a non-fatal triple shooting that occurred early Monday morning in the Riverwest neighborhood.

Police say the shooting took place around 1:30 a.m. in the 2700 block of North Holton Street, near Center Street, Cream City Social Eatery and the Mad Planet dance club on Milwaukee's northeast side. The three victims  a 21-year-old, a 23-year-old and a 26-year-old  sustained non-fatal gunshot wounds and were taken to a hospital for treatment.

Milwaukee police say the investigation is ongoing, and they continue to seek an unknown suspect or suspects.

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Anyone with any information is asked to contact Milwaukee police at (414) 935-7360 or to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at (414) 224-Tips or online via P3 Tips.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Three wounded in non-fatal Riverwest shooting early Monday morning
Logistics operators based in Asia have been leasing more warehouses in the United States in response to changes in e-commerce, global trade and manufacturing.

Third-party logistics firms, known as 3PLs, work with online retailers and other businesses to store, pack and move products for sale.

Leasing by Asia-based logistics firms more than doubled in key U.S. markets such as New Jersey and Los Angeles last year compared to 2023, according to global real estate firm Cushman & Wakefield. Landlords generally have seen less demand for warehouses following the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a boom in online shopping.

A leasing surge by Asia-based companies seeking to take advantage of favorable market conditions has emerged as a bright spot for the industry, real estate company CBRE Group said in a June 2024 report.

E-commerce companies and logistics providers based in China were estimated to account for 20% of new U.S. warehouse leases in the U.S. though the third quarter of 2024, logistics real estate company Prologis said.

By leasing warehouses, some companies that feared potential tariffs on imported goods were looking to store more inventory in the U.S., according to the CBRE report. U.S. President Donald Trump in early February put an additional 10% tariff products imported from China, a tax set to 20% on Tuesday.

The Associated Press recently spoke about warehouse leasing trends with Jason Tolliver, co-leader of Cushman & Wakefields Americas logistics and industrial services practice. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Q: Theres data that shows a rise in Chinese and Asia-based companies leasing more warehouses in the U.S. Whats your company seeing on the ground?

A: When you think about the uptick in Asian-based 3PLs - or 3PLs more broadly - weve really seen them become a more significant lessor of space in the last two years. That's being driven by the complexity in the market. As uncertainty rises and as trade complexity increases, the value proposition of a third-party logistics provider that has the scale, and the expertise, to be able to manage it has helped drive demand.

Weve seen an increase in the amount of Asian-based leasing by 3PLs that are tied to cross-border e-commerce. And a key driver has been the de minimis exemption, which allows online orders to be placed in the U.S. and have it shipped directly from storage facilities throughout Asia. Theres also a broader trend of regionalization thats being driven by increases in global trade and manufacturing.

Q: How do U.S.-based warehouses benefit companies that are operating under the de minimis model?
Sara McManus faced loss when her adoptive parents, Lora and David McManus, both died from COVID-19 on Sept. 5, 2020.

Monday marks five years since North Carolinas first COVID-19 case was confirmed.

Sara, who was 14 at the time, was the first in her family to contract the virus, followed by her parents. She recalls the difficulty of calling an ambulance for them and saying goodbye to her mother through FaceTime due to hospital restrictions.

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They passed seven hours apart; it was all just really hard, Sara McManus said, reflecting on the day her parents died. I had to mature at a young age because I couldnt do anything else.

After her parents deaths, Sara was taken in by her aunt. However, the tragedy continued as three other family members also succumbed to COVID-19 in the following weeks.

Despite these hardships, Sara found support from her mothers coworkers at Union County Water, who provided her with special deliveries for months.

The McManuses

Lora McManus was beloved in customer service, and her colleagues wanted to ensure her daughter was not forgotten. In honor of Loras legacy, Union County Water established the Lora McManus Customer Service Award that same year.

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Steven Ellis, a former coworker of Lora, was the first recipient of the award.

The gifts and all that we gave to her would not bring Lora back, but to know that she left a lasting impression, as big as that was, was big to them, said Steven Ellis, Customer Service Supervisor at Union County Water.

Sara McManus graduated high school last year, keeping her parents memory close with a special locket. She is now striving to live independently at 19 years old, aiming to make her parents proud.

Sara McManus continues to navigate life with resilience, inspired by the kindness and legacy of her mother, Lora. Her story is a testament to the enduring impact of love and community support in the face of profound loss.

VIDEO: Pageland holiday display pays tribute to couple who died from coronavirus
Freetowns police chief is vowing to address public safety concerns after hundreds of people gathered at a gas station over the weekend.

According to authorities, officers responding to a report of a large-scale disturbance around 10 p.m. on Saturday at Neon Marketplace Gas Station on Innovation Way found that over 300 vehicles gathered on the property and were engaging in erratic and reckless driving, restricting access to the gas station.

Officers called for mutual aid assistance from surrounding towns due to the sheer number of people and vehicles.

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Video shows a chaotic scene as the vehicles file out from the property.

Police say several fights had taken place before officers arrived. Witnesses claimed that a gun was displayed during one of the confrontations.

Investigators determined the gathering was part of a privately organized vehicle event, which had hired private security for the occasion.

The crowd was eventually dispersed by approximately 11:45 p.m.

Although this incident resulted in no injuries and minimal reported damages, the risk of public safety was substantial, Chief Scott Rose said. Events of this nature have been increasing in size and frequency at this location, placing a significant burden on the community and law enforcement resources. Moving forward, we are committed to addressing these concerns to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.

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The incident remains under investigation by Freetown Police and there were no reports of any arrests.

Officers from Fall River, Lakeville, Berkley and the Massachusetts State Police all assisted at the scene.

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More than 50 people have been injured in a collision between two tourist buses in Barcelona, officials said on Monday.

Four people are in critical condition, according to the authorities of the Catalan capital in north-eastern Spain. They were said to have been taken to various hospitals in the city.

There was initially no information about the identities of the injured. It was only stated that pedestrians were among them, and one of them was only 17 years old.

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Regional President Salvador Illa assured the injured of the support from the Catalan government.

The authorities reported that those affected include a larger group of young holidaymakers from Italy, mostly aged 17 and 18, who are staying in a hotel in the Catalan resort of Lloret de Mar and had taken a day trip to Barcelona on Monday.

The Italian bus ran into another bus on the Diagonal, one of Barcelona's main streets, which was parked at the roadside to let in cruise ship passengers, according to the TV channel RTVE and other media, citing witnesses.

The cruise tourists are said to come from Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom.

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In the accident, the front bus veered onto the pavement, where it came to a halt after colliding with a tree and a street lamp that was knocked down in the process.

The cause of the accident is still unknown. The police are said to have launched an investigation.
Morgan Freeman shared an emotional tribute to his friend and two-time co-star at the Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2, opening the ceremony's "In Memoriam" segment by lamenting that the film industry had "lost a giant."

Freeman appeared with Hackman in the 1992 Western Unforgiven, which won Hackman his second Oscar, and the 2000 thriller Under Suspicion. Like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer and a man whose gifts elevated everyones work, Freeman said.

Calling Hackman a dear friend, Freeman recalled that the veteran actor often said that he did not think about his legacy but hoped that people would remember him as someone who tried to do good work.

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So I think I speak for us all when I say, 'Gene, youll be remembered for that, and for so much more,' Freeman said.

Hackman, 95, and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found dead last week after a maintenance worker arrived at the couple's rustic home spread out over 12 acres on a picturesque perch a few miles outside Santa Fe, New Mexico around 1:45 p.m. Wednesday. When the worker arrived, no one answered the door, so he peered into a window and saw Arakawa "on the ground unresponsive through a window," Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza told reporters during a press conference last week.

He called 911, which brought emergency workers to the scene to recover the body of Hackman in a mud room near his cane and eyeglasses. Arakawa was found in a bathroom near two prescription bottles for unknown drugs and a bottle of Tylenol, officials said. Their remains were decaying, officials say.

One of the couple's three German Shepherds was also found dead in the bathroom closet, but it remains unclear how the pet died. The surviving dogs were found on the property, one near the body of Arakawa and the other roaming the grounds, Mendoza said, adding that the animal control officers worked with Hackman's family to "ensure the safety" of those pets.

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Deputies observed a healthy dog running loose on the property, another healthy dog near the deceased female, a deceased dog laying 10-15 feet from the deceased female in a closet of the bathroom," according to the Santa Fe Sheriff's Department report.

Hackman saved one of his dogs filming The Replacements with Keanu Reeves in 1999, according to a post from Animal Rescue Inc. who mourned their "most famous adopter," in a Facebook post. The German Shepherd had wandered onto the Baltimore set, and Hackman couldn't leave him behind. The dog's name? Gene.

Animal Rescue Inc. founders with "Gene" the German Shepherd that wandered onto a Baltimore movie set where Gene Hackman, the shelter's "most famous adopter," was filming "The Replacements" with Keanu Reeves Animal Rescue Inc. Facebook

Because of what Mendoza called the "unusual circumstances" of the couple's death, investigators executed a search warrant at their home later that night and recovered two cell phones, the prescription bottles and a 2025 monthly planner. Gas company officials checked for carbon monoxide leaks, but an autopsy conducted by the New Mexico Medical Examiner's Office ruled out poisoning as a cause of death.

Mendoza said a state pathologist believes that Hackman died on Feb. 17 based on the "last event" recorded on Hackman's pacemaker, but the cause and manner of the couple's death remains undetermined. The Sheriff said he respects the couple's dedication to remaining out of the public eye. "They were very private individuals, a very private family," Mendoza said.

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Hackman, who was born in San Bernardino, overcame a childhood tested by adversity to become a Hollywood icon admired both for his kaleidoscopic acting range and his artistic generosity. Dysfunctional families have sired a lot of pretty good actors, Hackman told The New York Times in 2001.

His mother Anna was a cinephile who took her son to movies on the big screen. She died tragically in a fire she accidentally set with a cigarette while drunk in 1962, not long after his father left the family when he was a small child. Unfortunately my mom never saw me act, Hackman told an interviewer for GQ. So Im sorry for that, but thats the way it is.

He earned his first acting chops at the drama school of Pasadena Playhouse in 1956, telling a Los Angeles Daily News reporter in 2001 that he remembered it as his big leap. "I always had it in my head that I wanted to be an actor, but when I was in high school, I was too shy to do anything about it," Hackman said. "Pasadena was the first time I had the courage to actually get up there on stage and see if I liked it or if it was just some dumb idea." He got bounced out of the program after a few months, but not before befriending Dustin Hoffman.

He went on to appear in dozens of films playing a range of villains, cops, cranks and conspiracy theorists in roles that earned him five Academy Award nominations. He took home two Oscars, one for The French Connection, and a second for Unforgiven.

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Arakawa was Hackmans second wife. The duo tied the knot in 1991 and remained together for the rest of their lives after Hackman's 1986 divorce from Faye Maltese, with whom he had three children. They moved to their isolated home on a dusty road named Old Sunset Trail not long after Hackman retired from acting in the mid-2000s to turn his attention to painting and writing. Between 1999 and 2008, Hackman cowrote three novels and penned two by himself, in 2011 and 2013.

Santa Fe Film Commissioner Jennifer LaBar-Tapia said the Hackmans were "deeply woven" into the fabric of the community they called home.

Today, Santa Fe and the film industry mourn the loss of two extraordinary individuals, Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa. Gene was not only a legendary actor whose talent shaped generations of storytelling, but he and Betsy were also longtime residents of our community, deeply woven into the fabric of Santa Fe, LaBar-Tapia said. Genes legacy in film is unparalleled, spanning decades of unforgettable performances, including some that are filmed right here in Santa Fe. His work inspired countless artists, actors and filmmakers, and his impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
Joe Scarborough was bothered by Donald Trump and JD Vance going after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyys Oval Office attire.

During Mondays Morning Joe episode, Scarborough recapped last Fridays dust up in the Oval Office. Vance piped up in the meeting to ask why Zelenskyy chose not to wear a suit to the meeting, which led to a louder argument that Trump proclaimed would make great TV.

Fascinating that JD Vance, I guess maybe for the first time, decided to just jump in to a meeting and take over a meeting where Donald Trump was running that meeting, the MSNBC host said. So many things deeply disturbing about that meeting but you dont have to take that from me.

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You can watch the full video below:

Scarborough continued, Just look at Marco Rubio slouched on the couch when the question is asked of a man who has been enduring the most horrific of slaughter from Russian troops over the past three years. Watching people he knew and loved killed and watching the country that he loves invaded by Russian invaders asked if he was wearing a suit, why he was not wearing a suit. Interesting Winston Churchill never asked that question.

Alongside his comments on Zelenskyy sans suit, Vance also made it known he thought the Ukrainian president should offer some words of appreciation for the military and financial support the U.S. has provided Ukraine. He further noted it was disrespectful for Zelenskyy to come into the Oval Office and try to litigate the Russia-Ukraine war in front of the American media right now.

The U.S. State Department revealed last month that the United States gave $65.9 billion to Ukraine since Russia invaded in 2022 and an additional $27.69 billion in military aid via guns, radar, anti-aircraft missiles and ammunition.

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Of course we want to stop the war, Zelenskyy said as tempers flared on Friday. Please, you think that if you will speak very loudly about the war he attempted to say before being cut off.

Hes not speaking loudly, Trump told Zelenskyy of Vance. Your country is in big trouble.

Watch the full Morning Joe clip above.

The post Morning Joe: Scarborough Slams Trump and Vances Team-Up Against Zelenskyy as Deeply Disturbing | Video appeared first on TheWrap.
MSNBC has officially found its new Senior Washington Correspondent in Eugene Daniels, a Politico alum who has appeared on the network multiple times. Mika Brzezinski and Joe Scarborough welcomed the latest addition on Morning Joe on Monday.

Thank you. You guys put me on TV all the time, so now they just stuck me there. So this is all your fault, Daniels said of his full-time gig, to which Brzezinski responded, Well take it.

Daniels isnt joking about being on TV often. In the past year alone, he appeared on MSNBC more than 100 times and has guest-hosted programs for the network, including The Weekend. He first joined the channel in 2021 and previously worked as a Senior Political Analyst.

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As well as serving as MSNBCs Washington correspondent, Daniels will also be a co-host of The Weekend on Saturdays and Sundays from 7 to 10 a.m. ET. He will host the show alongside Jonathan Capehart and another co-anchor whom Brzezinski said is soon-to-be named. As for the evening edition of the program, Ayman Mohyeldin will host that alongside two new hosts.

Daniels hiring is a big one as it marks the first correspondent hired during this new era of MSNBC. In November, Comcast announced it will be spinning off its cable networks, a decision that many have taken to mean that the MSNBC and NBC News teams will no longer work together. MSNBC is currently working to build out a Washington operation that will be independent from NBC News, an insider familiar with the matter told TheWrap. MSNBC president Rebecca Kutler is also in the process of hiring a head of talent, head of newsgathering, a Washington bureau chief and a head of content strategy, as well as a team of both domestic and international correspondents.

Prior to his latest MSNBC role, Daniels served as the Chief Playbook Correspondent and White House Correspondent for Politico. He also worked as a Political Reporter at Newsy and is currently the president of the White House Correspondents Association.

MSNBC is also planning to change up its programming around late April. After President Donald Trumps first 100 days in office, The Rachel Maddow Show will return to Mondays, and Jen Psaki will anchor the weekday 9 p.m. hour from Tuesdays through Fridays. The current co-hosts of The Weekend  Symone Sanders Townsend, Michael Steele and Alicia Menendez  will then anchor the 7 p.m. ET hour from Tuesdays to Fridays as well as two hours on Mondays. Finally, Ali Velshis Velshi will expand to three hours on the weekends.

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Though Joy Reid has left the network, Alex Wagner will remain at MSNBC as a senior political analyst.

Speaking of departures, MSNBC has decided to end its broadcasting operations in Miami. Jose Diaz-Balart, the former host of Jose Diaz-Balart Reports will remain the anchor of Weekend Nightly News on NBC. As for The Katie Phang Show host, Phang will remain at MSNBC as a legal correspondent.

The post Morning Joe Welcomes Politicos Eugene Daniels as MSNBCs Senior Washington Correspondent appeared first on TheWrap.
Its not unusual to see superheroes in the streets when its Carnival time in Brazil.

Batman, Superman and Spider-Man are common sights on the streets of Sao Paulo during whats sometimes called the worlds biggest party.

But among the many people dressed in figure-hugging colorful lycra for this years festivities, four dressed as the 1990s-era Power Rangers really went the extra mile.

Footage shared by Sao Paulo authorities on Saturday showed what appeared to be the red, blue, yellow and green Power Rangers restraining a suspected phone thief in front of a crowd of Carnival revelers chanting Power Rangers! Power Rangers! in one scene, while a fifth Power Ranger  in black  brandishes a fistful of recovered devices in another.

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Its morphin time! wrote Sao Paolos governor Tarcisio Gomes de Freitas in a post on X, in which he revealed the Power Rangers were in fact undercover law enforcement officers taking a novel approach to crime at the festival.

He alleged that as a result of the arrest, police had recovered four more stolen phones and roughly $2,425 in cash.

Police disguised as Power Rangers stand by a squad car after detaining a suspect. - Sao Paulo Police

Our Civil Police Power Rangers are putting on another show this Carnival! he added.

Brazils most populous state says gangs specializing in theft and robberies often take advantage of large crowds at festival time, and credits its strategy of disguising undercover police as partygoers for significant declines in festival-related crimes.

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Over the pre-Carnival weekend, 880 cases of cell phone theft and robbery were reported, a significant drop from the 2,344 cases recorded in the same period last year, Sao Paulos government said recently.

The police dont just dress up as Power Rangers, however. Last month, police released an image of an officer dressed as the Mexican parody superhero El Chapulin Colorado (the Red Grasshopper) escorting a handcuffed suspect.

Brazils festivities will continue until the first day of Lent in the Christian calendar, which this year falls on March 5.

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You can get a break on car insurance rates for serving in the U.S. armed forces, but finding the best deal involves more than searching for a military car insurance discount.

A winning battle plan requires assessing your needs, understanding different types of car insurance, shopping around for coverage, and choosing a company with a reputation for excellent customer service.

Heres what to know and how to shop.

Learn more: How does car insurance work? The basics explained.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

How is military car insurance different?

At the basic level, car insurance for active and veteran military members works the same as car insurance for everybody else.

But there are some special issues to consider if youre on active duty, and many companies offer discounts for both active and veteran service members.

Car insurance for active-duty military

Getting restationed every few years and the possibility of deployment make car insurance more complex for active-duty members.

Think ahead and realize that military families often move every two to three years, so  you may end up in multiple states, and you may end up living overseas, said Lizann Lightfoot, director of marketing for GoVA, a financial education organization for military families.

Consider companies with national and overseas coverage

Choosing a company with nationwide and overseas coverage can make those transitions easier, said Lightfoot, whose husband recently retired from the Marines. No matter where you end up stationed, youre able to maintain the same company with minimal disruption.

Lightfoots family stayed with the same insurer for many years, even as they were restationed multiple times, including to Spain.

Read more: How to switch car insurance companies

Car insurance during deployment

In addition, understand how to handle coverage when youre deployed. You may be able to save by suspending or reducing coverage if the car is in storage, for example.

You want to know what your cost-saving options are without disrupting your coverage, Lightfoot said. Those are questions that its best to ask in advance before you have those deployment orders.

Military car insurance discounts

A variety of car insurance companies offer military discounts for veterans and active-duty military. Here are some examples.

USAA

USAA is the only major car insurer that serves strictly active and veteran military members and their families. The company offers coverage nationwide and overseas. Discounts include up to 15% for garaging a car on base and an unspecified discount for storing a vehicle. USAA scored higher than any of the 15 auto insurers included in J.D. Powers 2024 auto insurance study on overall customer satisfaction.

Learn more: How to get all the best car insurance discounts

GEICO

GEICO has a long history with the military community, having got its start in 1936 serving federal government employees, including certain military officers. Today, it caters to active-duty and veteran members through its Military Center, staffed with veterans. GEICO offers worldwide coverage and an up to 15% military discount for active-duty and veteran service members, National Guards members, and reservists. Other discounts are available for emergency deployment and for membership in certain professional military associations, such as the Association of the United States Army and the Armed Forces Benefit Association. GEICOs Storage Protection Plan lets you suspend or reduce coverage and save money if you store your car for 30 days or more.

Liberty Mutual

Liberty Mutual offers a military discount for active, retired, or reserve military members. The company doesnt specify the discount amount on its website.

Farmers Insurance

Farmers Insurance offers an unspecified affinity discount for active duty, active reserves, retired, or honorably discharged military.

Some other car insurance companies may offer military discounts but dont promote them on their websites, so it pays to ask about a military discount when youre shopping for a new policy.

Learn more: Heres how to shop for car insurance

Discounts can vary by state

Car insurance discounts aren't always spelled out on insurer websites because the availability and amount of discounts vary by state. Louisiana state law, for example, requires all auto insurance companies to offer a 25% car insurance discount for active-duty military and reservists, Louisiana Air National Guard and Louisiana Army National Guard members, retired military, and veterans with a disability rating of 50% or more.

Military car insurance shopping strategy

Whether youre a veteran or active-duty service member, here are the tactics for getting the right car insurance coverage at the best price.

Know the drill: car insurance basics

Before setting off on the mission to get covered, understand the different types of car insurance and decide how much you need so you can compare quotes from multiple companies for the same coverage.

Learn more: Most common types of car insurance explained

Most states require a minimum amount of liability insurance, which covers damage and injuries you cause others in an accident. Some states also require other coverage types, such as uninsured and underinsured motorist and personal injury protection insurance.

Learn more: Minimum car insurance requirements in all 50 U.S. states

You must meet the state minimum requirements to drive legally, but you may need more coverage because the state minimums are relatively low. Buy enough liability insurance to protect your assets in case of a lawsuit.

Read more: How to choose the right auto insurance coverage limits

Collision and comprehensive insurance are optional as far as state requirements go, but lenders and leasing companies usually require them for leased or financed cars. Collision insurance pays to repair or replace your car after an accident, and comprehensive kicks in if your car is damaged by something other than a collision, such as a storm or vandalism.

Consider other options too. If youre stationed far away from family and friends, you may want roadside assistance coverage for that extra sense of security, Lightfoot noted.

Finally, decide on a deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before collision and comprehensive insurance kicks in. The higher the deductible, the lower your car insurance rate. Choose the highest deductible you can afford and keep that amount of cash in savings. That way, youll be all set if you have to make a claim.

Once youve nailed down how much coverage you need and a deductible amount, its time to shop.

Compare car insurance quotes

The Insurance Information Institute advises getting quotes from at least three car insurance companies, including ones that sell through their own agents, through independent agents, and directly through their own websites or apps.

Make sure to ask about a military discount and any others that might apply, including a bundling discount for buying both car and home or renters insurance from the same company.

On paper, your auto insurance might not be cheapest when compared to another company, but if youre factoring in the discounts on your other types of insurance, you may be getting a better deal overall, so always look into bundling options, Lightfoot said. Military families typically should be paying for renters insurance if theyre living on base or renting off base or homeowners insurance if they own a property.

Choose a company that will serve you well

Get car insurance company recommendations from other military members and veterans. Ask how satisfied they are with the price and service  and find out how easy it is to get questions answered and navigate the claims process.

Before buying a policy, talk to a company representative about your needs.

Anyone you speak to should take the time to answer to your satisfaction, the Insurance Information Institute advises on its website. Remember, these are the people you'll rely on if the worst happens and you need to make a claim.

Check online ratings and reviews, including the annual J.D. Power Auto Insurance Study and Auto Claims Satisfaction Study.

Car insurance banner  Yahoo Personal Finance

Annual car insurance checkup

Choosing car insurance isnt a one-and-done maneuver. Your needs and coverage prices will change. So its a good idea to review coverage every year and compare quotes to make sure youre getting the best deal.
The West Virginia Senate approved a bill that aims to keep transgender individuals from accessing womens bathrooms, locker rooms and other spaces. The measure would also define sex-based terms of female and male using biological sex. (Will Price | West Virginia Legislative Photography)

The terms of woman and man would be defined using biological sex in state law, according to a bill approved Monday in the Senate.

The measure, a priority piece of legislation for Gov. Patrick Morrisey, would also limit transgender individuals access to womens bathrooms, locker rooms and domestic violence shelters.

Sen. Mike Stuart, R-Kanawha

Currently, West Virginia has no law specifically defining men and women. The legislation seeks to remedy that, said Sen. Mike Stuart, R-Kanawha.

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Senate Bill 456, contains no criminal penalties for schools, higher education institutions and others that would fail to uphold the bills requirements.

Sen. Joey Garcia, D-Marion

Sen. Joey Garcia, D-Marion, was the only Senator to vote against the measure, saying it was based on the idea of this boogeyman story of what might happen, rather than on data or incidents that occurred in West Virginia.

Garcia, who cited a Biblical story on the floor, said that his Christian faith had propelled him to vote against the measure.

I believe that God made people how they are, and that he does not make mistakes, and that every child is a child of God, he said. So this legislation, I believe, it hurts my neighbors. It does not love them. And for that reason, I will be a no.

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In response, Sen. Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh, said the Bible outlined male and female sexes in Genesis.

Sen. Rollan Roberts, R-Raleigh

Stating the facts, as we see in the foundational book of the Bible, does not mean that there is a lack of love or compassion for anyone else on this earth, and I support the bill wholeheartedly, Roberts said.

The West Virginia Coalition of Domestic Violence opposes the measure, and a leader of a shelter told lawmakers that could impact their ability to serve transgender individuals. Additionally, tight budgets could make it impossible to build separate spaces as needed under the bill.

It denies individual freedoms under the guise of protecting women and is counter to our survivor centered and empowerment values, the coalition said in a statement.

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The measure passed the state Senate as U.S. Sen. Jim Justice, R-W.Va., who failed to get a similar bill through the Legislature last year while governor, joined his Senate GOP colleagues in seeking clarification from the NCAA on its policy allowing biological males in womens locker rooms.

The bill, which goes to the House of Delegates for consideration, is the second of high-profile Morrisey-backed legislation to make it through the Senate.

The Senate approved the governors requested vaccination exemption bill Feb. 21. The measure would permit broad religious and philosophical exemptions to the states strict childhood immunization laws.

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Brian GlennGOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greenes MAGA-loving reporter boyfriendclaims he received thousands of death threats after he insulted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys Oval Office attire last week.

After intense negotiations about Russias invasion of Ukraine on Feb 28., the 56-year-old Real Americas Voice host chose to interrogate Zelensky on why he was not wearing a suit.

On Monday, the reporter tried to address what it meant that Zelensky didnt wear a suit during President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vances intimidation session.

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Why does this man continue to go see heads of nations get hundreds of billions of dollars, be in the highest offices around the world, and absolutely wear that silly little green jumpsuit, which youre not currently in the war in that country, Glenn asked on Real Americas Voice. Why cant you show some respect and dress up and be in the highest level?

In a video posted to X by C-SPAN, Glenn demanded answers of Zelensky on Friday: Why dont you wear a suit? Youre at the highest level in this countrys office, and you refuse to wear a suit. Do you own a suit?

Likening Zelenskys political prowess with his choice of garb, Glenn continued on Real Americas Voice: Sometimes you can judge a book by its cover and by him not showing respect. And obviously, the wardrobe reflected his attitude, which we later found out about six and a half minutes after that question.

He added: Thats when things got heated up. So it was a reflection of his genuine disrespect he has for this country.

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 8: Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), and her boyfriend Brian Glenn a host at the conservative Right Side Broadcasting Network, walk together after she and Rep. / Kent Nishimura/Getty Images

MTGs boyfriend admitted that his sharp jabs at the Ukrainian president, who was merely trying to discuss how to relieve his country from two years under Russias reign, has taken a toll on his own personal life.

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The feedback that I have personally gotten from, I would consider, America First people, the base, has been huge, he claimed. But Ive received thousands of death threats.

I currently have a police unit at my house in Texas because theyre saying that theyre going to find me and harm me and things like that, Glenn said. So it has been a very serious issue.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  Firefighters are battling a two-alarm blaze in a north Columbus home Monday morning.

According to the Columbus Division of Fire, a two-story vacant apartment building caught fire after 5 a.m. in the 2300 block of Fitzroy Place North, in the Northland area, just south of Morse Road.

Columbus gas prices dip lower in the midst of international uncertainty

It has been confirmed that the building was empty when the fire broke out. CFD Chief Jeffrey Geitter could not confirm how it started, but does not believe the building had electrical service.

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There are no reports of injuries at this time as multiple agencies continue to try to contain the scene.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
The POW/MIA flag waves in the wind outside of the Capitol in Bismarck on Feb. 27, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

The North Dakota Legislature is handling a number of bills to honor veterans this session, including seven to name roads and bridges after fallen North Dakota soldiers, and others that highlight current military members, prisoners of war, and service members who are missing in action.

The effort to rename North Dakota roads and bridges after fallen soldiers has done a lot of healing and brought a spotlight to our vets here in North Dakota, said Jim Nelson, the legislative director for the North Dakota Veterans Legislative Council.

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House Bill 1228 would designate a portion of State Highway 5 and a bridge in Bottineau as the Lt. Cmdr. Carl J. Woods Vietnam bridge. Woods died on Sept. 28, 1965, near Qui Vinh, North Vietnam. After his helicopter was hit by antiaircraft fire, Woods flew the burning chopper 40 miles to the Gulf of Tonkin, where he bailed out before it crashed into the sea. Woods drowned before he could be rescued. A resident of Bottineau, Woods left behind his wife, son, and two daughters. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

House Bill 1212 would designate State Highway 18 from the intersection of State Highway 5 to the Canadian border as the Pfc. Henry Gurke Memorial Highway. Gurke was killed on Nov. 9, 1943, in Bougainville, Solomon Islands, when he smothered a grenade explosion with his body to protect nearby members of his unit from the blast. A native of Neche, Gurke is buried in the Union Cemetery there.

House Bill 1173 would designate the bridge on State Highway 31 north of New Salem as the Spc. Dennis DJ Ferderer Jr. Iraq Bridge. Ferderer was killed Nov. 2, 2005, in Duluiyah, Iraq. He enlisted in the Army after graduating from New Salem High School in 2003. His name is included on the Memorial to the Fallen in the Global War on Terrorism outside Fraine Barracks, which is the Bismarck headquarters of the North Dakota National Guard.

House Bill 1140 would designate the bridge on South State Avenue in Dickinson as the Spc. Jon P. Fettig Iraq Bridge. Fettig was killed in action outside Ar Ramadi, Iraq, on July 22, 2003. He was serving with the North Dakota Army National Guards 957th Engineer Company. He was the first North Dakota Army National Guard soldier killed in battle since the Korean War. Fettigs name is included on the Memorial to the Fallen.

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House Bill 1092 would designate the Carrington railroad overpass on U.S. Highway 52 as the Staff Sgt. Miles Shelley WWII Bridge. Shelley was killed April 1, 1944, in Bougainville, Solomon Islands, while serving with Company F, 164th Infantry Regiment. He received the Silver Star, Distinguished Service Cross, Bronze Star, and a Purple Heart for his service in the Pacific theater. In Bougainville, he was killed after he called in an artillery strike on his own position so that the rest of his patrol could withdraw unharmed. He is buried in the Carrington Cemetery.

House Bill 1091 would designate the bridge on U.S. Highway 81 in Grafton as the Spc. 4 David Latraille Vietnam Bridge. Latraille was killed by enemy small arms fire on March 6, 1968, in Thua Thien, South Vietnam. He is buried in St. Johns Cemetery in Grafton.

House Bill 1090 would designate the bridge on State Highway 18 as the Spc. 4 Richard W. Orsund Vietnam Bridge. Orsund died on March 27, 1968, in Binh Duong, South Vietnam, from a metal fragment wound. He is buried in South Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Grafton.

During the 2023 legislative session, five bridges were named to honor veterans. These names provide lasting recognition and appreciation for local heroes who have given their life in a time of war while keeping their memory alive, recognizing the family they left behind, and allowing for community involvement, supporters say.

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The 2025 Legislatures efforts to honor veterans have not been restricted to naming roads and bridges.

House Bill 1293 would create a Burial Medallion Program for veterans graves. The medallion would be a small marker attached to an existing headstone or grave marker to indicate a veterans status. The bill passed the House 92-0 on Jan. 27. The Senate Agriculture and Veterans Affairs Committee is reviewing the bill.

House Bill 1403 designated Prisoner of War and Missing in Action Day as a state holiday by proclamation of the governor. POW/MIA Recognition Day honors and remembers the sacrifices of prisoners of war and service members who went missing in action. POW/ MIA Recognition Day is the third Friday in September and has been observed since 1979.

Under House Bill 1148, the governor will issue a proclamation on May 1 for Military Appreciation Month in honor of the men and women of the U.S. armed forces who have served and are still serving. Military Appreciation Month is in May of each year.

All of the veteran memorial bills have been approved by the House and will be considered by Senate committees.
LE MARS, Iowa (KCAU)  On Friday, February 28 the Le Mars Fire-Rescue Department was called to multiple field fires.

The first fire happened at 11316 Highway 75, where a burn pile rekindled and spread to a nearby field. That was put out in around 40 minutes.

The second fire happened at 14618 Juniper Avenue, where several hay bales and a field were on fire. Firefighters put out a fire at a hog confinement building next to the bales. The fire moved across the street to another field. The fire was eventually extinguished.

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Firefighters were on the scene for more than 5 hours. The cause of that fire was a burn pile of trees that rekindled, spread into a ditch and jumped Juniper Avenue.

There were no injuries in either fire.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The trial starts Monday for a convicted murderer who police say killed one person with his car, then tried to hit another at a shopping center in Portland three years ago.

According to Portland police, 40-year-old Frederick Moore hit and killed a pedestrian while he was driving out of the Eastport Plaza shopping center on Southeast 82nd Avenue on June 6, 2022.

Man wanted for domestic violence arrested after trying to flee from Gresham crash

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He then tried to run over another man, Todd Henderson, who had witnessed the incident, police said.

Henderson told KOIN 6 News he yelled at Moore, saying the person who was hit was dead.

The victim was run over, he went under the wheels, he dragged him across the street, he was screaming and there were sparks that were flying because he had a basket with him, he recalled.

Southeast Portland sports bar shooting leaves one hospitalized

The pedestrian, identified as 42-year-old Vincent Timothy, died from his injuries, police said.

Moore was arrested the following day. He is facing multiple charges, including second-degree murder, attempted second-degree murder, failure to perform duties of a driver to an injured person and attempted assault.

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At his arraignment on June 16, 2022, he plead not guilty to all charges, police said.

According to court documents, Moore was convicted of second-degree murder as a teenager in 1998 after he and three other teens killed Anthony Genzale in Washington. He received a 17-year prison sentence.

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Elon Musk took a fresh shot at Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday, accusing the embattled Ukrainian president of wanting a forever war with Russia.

Musk, a close adviser of President Donald Trump who leads his efforts to pare down the federal government, often weighs in on U.S. foreign policy and European politics via his social media platform, X.

The tech mogul wrote on X that Zelenskyy wants a forever war, a never-ending graft meat grinder.

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This is evil, he added.

In aseparate post, he said Zelenskyy had a choice to seek peace with Moscow but was opting for bloodshed.

This is cruel and inhumane, Musk said.

In the early days of Russias full-scale invasion, Musk was hailed as one of Ukraines most important allies after donating thousands of Starlink satellite internet system terminals to replace communications services destroyed by Moscows forces.

But that changed after he began spreading what Kyiv said was pro-Russian propaganda. He has since condemned the provision of American aid to Ukraine with no accountability and no end game and has reserved his sharpest criticism for Zelenskyy, scoffing at the Ukrainian presidents calls for more aid and mocking his insistence that Kyiv cannot be forced to the negotiating table.

Musks latest posts follow last weeks Oval Office meeting between Trump, Zelenskyy and Vice President JD Vance which saw the Ukrainian leader booted from the White House and raised fears that the U.S. could withdraw support entirely for Kyiv.
Elon Musk said he agreed that the US should leave NATO.

Before he became the secretary of state, Marco Rubio made such a move harder.

Congress passed a law requiring a vote to approve any US withdrawal.

Elon Musk wants the US to leave NATO. Before he joined President Donald Trump's Cabinet as the secretary of state, Marco Rubio made such a historic move a lot more difficult.

"I agree," Musk wrote on X on Saturday night when a conservative political commentator suggested the US leave the United Nations and NATO.

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Before he joined Trump's Cabinet, Rubio co-led a congressional effort to handcuff any future president who wanted to leave NATO. Trump's name wasn't always mentioned, but it was clear his presidential candidacy worried enough lawmakers from both parties to move to rein him in.

Musk's comments have come at a critical moment.

NATO members, led by the United Kingdom and France, are discussing how to continue to support Ukraine in its war against Russia. Talks between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy blew up last week. Zelenskyy has said he wants security guarantees as a backstop to any peace deal with Russia. The White House proposed a rare earth minerals deal but has been reluctant to lay out a defense plan if Russia were to violate a cease-fire.

Trump has repeatedly expressed skepticism over NATO, particularly the possibility that its mutual defense clause, Article 5, could lead the US into war if a nation such as Montenegro was attacked. The president has also threatened to leave the alliance if European nations don't spend more on their own defense.

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A White House spokesperson didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on whether Musk was speaking in his capacity as a senior advisor to the president. Musk is also the de facto leader of the White House DOGE office.

There could be a legal fight on the horizon.

Under the 2023 law championed by Rubio, any NATO withdrawal requires either the approval of two-thirds of the US Senate or a separate act of Congress. Given that many GOP lawmakers remain staunch NATO backers, it's extremely unlikely Trump could muster such a large majority.

Legal scholars have said that may not be the last word; Trump could simply ignore the law. His White House has suggested that a different congressional restriction related to spending federal funds is unconstitutional.

In such an event, a legal fight could go up to the US Supreme Court. Historically, the judiciary is reticent to get involved in disputes between branches. There are also concerns about whether lawmakers would reach the threshold of standing, the legal ability to bring such a suit in the first place.

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Absent a full US withdrawal, there are other ways to undermine NATO.

A recent war game found that Trump could simply hollow out the alliance by curtailing US support, allowing NATO to wither.

The US holds a powerful perch at both NATO and the United Nations institutions.

It's the largest member of the NATO alliance, and the only country in its 80-year history to invoke its central defense cause, which came after the 9/11 terror attacks. The US is also one of the five permanent members of the powerful UN Security Council, the only UN group that can impose binding resolutions on all 193 member states.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Charlie Kratovil, founder and editor of New Brunswick Today, is at the center of a case that tests a New Jersey law barring the publication of some public officials' addresses. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor)

Attorneys for press advocates and for New Brunswick met in front of the New Jersey Supreme Court Monday as the justices decide whether a state law meant to shield the addresses of some public officials can bar a reporter from publishing information gleaned through documents provided by the government.

Charlie Kratovil, editor of New Brunswick Today, is seeking to enjoin the citys officials from using the statute  called Daniels Law  to limit his reporting, saying their invocation of the law to warn of civil and criminal penalties had violated First Amendment protections on free speech.

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This case asks a simple question about whether the government can provide information to a reporter, then later attempt to punish the reporter for reporting that same information in a story about an issue of public concern. It cannot, said attorney Alexander Shalom, who represented Kratovil.

Officials had sought to bar Kratovil from publishing the address of New Brunswicks then-police director, Anthony Caputo, who lived roughly two hours away in Cape May and seldom attended city council and other governmental meetings, after Kratovil published a story noting his residence in New Jerseys southernmost county. Kratovil had obtained Caputos address through an Open Public Records Act request.

Kratovil has argued a letter the city sent him warning him about potential penalties if he published the address amounts to an unconstitutional prior restraint. The city has charged the states interest in protecting officials from violence justified restraints on speech.

Susan OConnor, the citys attorney, argued Caputos exact address is not information the public needs.

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The street number and the street name are not a matter of public importance and therefore does not add anything to the free and robust debate on the public issues that plaintiff is espousing, she said. His request to bootstrap non-relevant personal information should not be tolerated by this court.

Lower courts have ruled Daniels Law, named for the son of U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas, who was killed during an assassination attempt targeting Salas, is narrowly tailored enough to pass constitutional muster. The law bars publication of the addresses of judges and some law enforcement and other public officials.

On Monday, Kratovils arguments centered around legal tests spawned by a 1989 U.S. Supreme Court decision called Florida Star v. B.J.F., which centered around a rape victims complaint that the Florida Star newspaper printed her name after a reporter found it in a police report. The courts ruling invalidated a Florida law that criminalized the release of rape victims names by news media.

Shalom argued that precedent the U.S. Supreme Court set in the case and others requires governments to find less restrictive ways to limit the spread of information when that information comes from the government to begin with.

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Florida Star is very clear about this: When the government  gives you the information, courts must make the assumption that they had a better way to prevent publication other than subsequent criminalization or civil penalty, Shalom told the state Supreme Court Monday. They didnt.

If a link between the barred content is at least as close as it was in Florida Star  where justices found a rape victims name was sufficiently related to crime writ large  precedent bars prior restraint, he said.

Numerous parties have intervened in the Kratovil case as friends of the court. An attorney for New Jersey, which argued in favor of New Brunswick, said Kratovil would fail the test established in Florida Star from the outset because while Caputos lengthy commute to his former job was a matter of public interest, the precise length of that commute was not.

The point is he lives about two hours away, and the town is relevant to that. Nobodys disputed that in this case, but thats, I think, all you need to say, said Deputy Solicitor General Michael Zuckerman.

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Shalom and attorney Frank Corrado, who argued on behalf of press groups who joined the case to support Kratovil, said that reading would turn judges into super editors by allowing them veto power over news copy.

What the courts have done here, both the lower court and the affirmance by the Appellate Division, is say, certain information is necessary to a story, and more importantly, certain information is not necessary to a story, Corrado said. Thats an edit of the story by any definition.

But Zuckerman argued judges are well versed in making such decisions and would have to do no more than analyze the First Amendment and determine how it applies to a given argument, as is common in First Amendment cases.

Those are difficult judgment calls to make, but theyre questions of law, he said. The question is what does the First Amendment say, how does it apply, is this a matter of public concern or not  and theres just no way to do that analysis without thinking about what is this article about.

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Chief Justice Stuart Rabner, who advocated for the passage of Daniels Law, and Justices Douglas Fasciale and John Jay Hoffman did not participate in oral arguments. Appellate Division Judge Jack Sabatino, who temporarily sat on the Supreme Court in 2022 and 2023, joined the other justices in hearing the case.

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Napervilles historic Willard Scott House has been sold to a local real estate team.

Despite fears that a private sale would risk demolition or, at least, alterations to the 158-year-old structure, the new owners say they want to take care of  not change  the property.

The Willard Scott House will now serve as the office for The Ville Team of Coldwell Banker Realty. The propertys sale closed on Friday, according to a news release. The office will be run by brokers and partners Walt Burrell and Bridget Salela.

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The Ville Team, currently located at 1212 S. Naper Blvd., will likely move into the downtown space at 101 N. Washington St. sometime later this summer, Burrell and Salela said. The new location, they say, is a dream come true.

We love the building, Burrell said. Its historic. There is history. Were excited about it.

To that end, they want to keep carrying that history forward, the new owners say.

I think thats what makes us so excited, you know? Burrell said. The way that the building works, its perfect for a real estate team. Its got plenty of space for us, so our intentions would be to just leave it as it is and really take care of it (and) maintain it.

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I mean, its such an iconic home in Naperville, Salela added. Its so beautiful, right? And its just perfect for a real estate company because we list these iconic properties. So why not do it out of this house? It just goes hand in hand.

The Willard Scott House, built in 1867, has ties to one of Napervilles earliest families. Once known as the red brick mansion, the two-story home was designed in the Italianate-style, which was popular between the 1850s and the 1880s and is known for its symmetry, flat roofs and round-arched windows.

Originally a family home for more than a century, a law firm took over and converted it for office use. From 1975 to 2016, Fawell, James & Brooks  the private law practice of former state senator and U.S. Rep. Harris Fawell  operated out of the property.

Even after his firm relocated nine years ago, Fawell continued to retain part ownership in the house with his wife, Ruth. Meanwhile, Fawells son-in-law Robert Heap purchased half the property and moved his own law practice, Kuhn, Heap & Monson, into the building. But when ownership changed again after the death of Harris and Ruth Fawell a few years ago  leaving the Fawells half to other heirs  it was decided the house would go up for sale.

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The property went on the market in mid-2023. In an interview later that year, Heap said that he and the houses three other owners were looking for buyers that wouldnt tear it down (or) change it so you cant recognize it afterward.

Reached by phone Sunday, Heap said they found that with The Ville Team.

Our main goal was to give it to someone that would maintain its integrity as a historical (property), he said, and were very comfortable that The Ville Team is going to do that.

Putting the house on the market initially was very difficult and selling it was even more so, Heap said. But knowing that its going to owners who intend to maintain the property makes parting with it so much easier, he said.

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Prior to Fridays sale, the Scott house had been on The Ville Teams radar for a few months. Salela and Burrell earlier this winter heard about the available space through Naperville City Councilman Patrick Kelly, who is also the council liaison for the citys Historic Preservation Commission.

We started talking about it  and I was like, Youre right, what about (the Scott house)? Then we started driving by it all the time, Salela said.

I literally drive by it every day, Burrell said. Just the timing was perfect. Just kind of everything aligned itself, and it really worked out.

In a statement last week, Kelly said, This is a perfect fit for everyone involved. The sellers found just the type of buyer they were looking for, it should be a great space for the Villes real estate team, and the city will see new life breathed into one of our most historic buildings. This is really the best case outcome, and a great win for the local business community, historic preservation and the city of Naperville as a whole.

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Naperville Preservation Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to documenting and protecting places historically notable to Naperville, said in a release Monday that it was excited and relieved to hear the news.

In a statement, Naperville Preservation Director Joe McElroy said, We are very pleased with the sale of the building. The building is deserving of celebration and preservation in so many ways.

Burrell and Salela founded The Ville Team in 2017. Today, it is composed of eight full-time broker associates with Coldwell Banker Realty. It is a full-service team for residential, rental and commercial properties in Naperville, the surrounding western suburbs and Chicago, according to its website.

Both longtime Naperville residents and family friends for over 25 years, Burrell and Salela have always wanted to be (based) in downtown Naperville from the day that we started this, Salela said.

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Were very passionate about Naperville.  Its very neat that we can be down here and bring the team down here and really just enjoy downtown Naperville, Burrell said.

While The Ville Team moves in, Kuhn, Heap & Monson will be consolidating into its main office at 552 S. Washington St., Heap said.

As for their office change, Burrell and Salela hope to use the move as an opportunity to grow The Ville Team, they said.

They also envision keeping the Scott house in their families for years to come, staying true to the propertys familial roots.

We have high hopes to keep this in our families for a really long time, Salela said. I have kids in real estate on our team. So I just hope one day to pass it along.

tkenny@chicagotribune.com
MOJAVE, Calif. (WGHP)  A unique photograph captured another side of the historic test flight that paves the way for a next-generation jet to be built in Greensboro.

Boom Supersonic, which broke ground on a facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro as part of its plans to build supersonic passenger jets, partnered with NASA to capture specialized photography during supersonic flight tests of its demonstrator aircraft, XB-1.

On Feb. 10, during the second supersonic flight, officials from NASA used what is called Schlieren photography to capture the flight. Schlieren photography is a technique that helps visualize shockwaves during supersonic flight.

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According to Boom, Schlieren images require ideal conditions and exceptional flying by the pilot, which they say Tristan Geppetto Brandenburg achieved. NASA used ground telescopes with special filters that detect air distortions around the jet.

This image makes the invisible visiblethe first American-made civil supersonic jet breaking the sound barrier. Thanks to Geppettos exceptional flying and our partnership with NASA, we were able to capture this iconic image, said Blake Scholl, Founder and CEO of Boom Supersonic. We also confirmed that XB-1 made no audible sonic boom, which paves the way for coast-to-coast flights up to 50% faster.

NASA teams also collected sound data and Boom confirmed that the breaking of the sound barrier was truly boomless, meaning no supersonic boom reached the ground, a feature they are hoping to perfect in the development of their much larger Overture passenger jets.

Boomless Cruise enables Overture to fly at speeds up to Mach 1.3 without an audible boom, reducing U.S. coast-to-coast flight times by up to 90 minutes, the press release states.

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XB-1s second supersonic flight marked the conclusion of its groundbreaking flight test program, and the historic aircraft will now return to her birthplace in Denver, Colorado. Boom will now focus its full efforts on scaling XB-1 learnings and technology to build the Overture supersonic airliner, which already has 130 orders and pre-orders from United Airlines, American Airlines and Japan Airlines. In 2024, Boom completed construction on the Overture Superfactory in Greensboro, North Carolina, which will scale to produce 66 Overture aircraft per year, Boom said in their release.

Each successful flight has put Boom another step closer to creating the Overture aircraft, its carbon-neutral commercial jet, in the Piedmont Triad.

Overture

With XB-1, Boom aimed to prove that independently-built supersonic flight is possible and to test specifics related to Overture, such as technology and safety protocols, according to Boom spokesperson Aubrey Scanlan.

A rendering of Booms Overture (BOOM SUPERSONIC)

The latest conception of the Overture from Boom.

This undated image provided by Boom Supersonic shows Boom Supersonic Overture Aircraft. American Airlines says it has agreed to buy up to 20 supersonic jets that are still on the drawing board and years away from flying. American announced the deal Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022 with Boom Supersonic.(Boom Supersonic via AP)

Overture jet (Courtesy of Boom Supersonic)

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Overture jet (Courtesy of Boom Supersonic)

View of passenger bridge departure gate at airport tarmac. Overture jet (Courtesy of Boom Supersonic)

Overture

Overture will be roughly three times the size of XB-1, and its planned to carry 64-80 passengers on intercontinental flights at speeds of up to about Mach 1.7 (or 1,304.36 miles per hour). That is about twice as fast as a Boeing 747. All of that while using non-petroleum sustainable fuel. Already the company has 130 orders in for the future jet, as well as pre-orders from American Airlines, United Airlines and Japan Airlines.

Boom is in the process of building a factory in Greensboro where it plans to build the passenger jet that will fly faster than the speed of sound.

The factory is set to add $32 billion to the North Carolina state economy over the next 20 years along with more than 2,400 jobs.

Plans call for the assembly line to be in operation later next year. The first jet could take flight in 2026. The company hopes flights should be ready for passengers by 2029.

About Boom

Boom is investing about $500 million to build Overture in Greensboro and, in January 2023, signed a lease and broke ground on a 62-acre site where its so-called Superfactory is well under construction. The company, which plans to employ more than 1,700, also has an option for a second parcel.

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Boom plans to have its first passengers in the air by 2029 and will fly more than 600 profitable routes to destinations around the world, with a range of 4,250 nautical miles.

Boom has taken on three partners to design and build the engine it calls Symphony, which will power the Overture, and now has partnerships with companies to provide the wings, the fuselage and the tail assembly.

Another partner, Dimensional Energy, is to provide sustainable aviation fuel, which is described by the U.S. Department of Energy as being made from renewable biomass and waste resources, which could be corn, algae or wood products.

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NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  Monday marks five years since the historic tornado outbreak in Middle Tennessee that left 25 people dead. The impacts of that storm are still being felt at Mount Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Buena Vista, just north of downtown Nashville.

When the powerful EF-3 twister crossed over the interstate on March 3, 2020, the then 135-year-old church was in its direct path.

5 years ago: Tornadoes of March 2-3, 2020 in Middle Tennessee

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Rev. Jacques Boyd, pastor at Mount Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, called that day traumatic. He told News 2 their church building and Christian Life Center on their 3-acre property were destroyed, leaving them with no choice but to rebuild from the ground up.

Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd Courtesy: Rev. Jacques Boyd

Boyd said by the time the sun rose following the horrific event, congregants and community members stepped up to help out.

Its not easy at all, Boyd said. The generosity of the members of Mount Bethel, the generosity of friends of Mount Bethel, the generosity of people in this city, state and country, who have given donations just to make sure that our congregation, which turns 140 years old this year, will still survive.

| READ MORE | Latest headlines from Nashville and Davidson County

The church didnt let the damage hold them back from prayer. Five days later, Mount Bethel held a worship service under a tent outside with the rubble surrounding them.

Courtesy: Associated Press Courtesy: Associated Press Courtesy: Associated Press Courtesy: Associated Press Courtesy: Associated Press Courtesy: Associated Press

Despite the effects from the tornado that swept through our areas, we will continue to praise and worship the Lord God in Spirit and in Truth, Boyd stated in a social media post on March 5, 2020.

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Its been a long road to recovery for Mount Bethel. Boyd said the rebuild has cost the church upwards of $6 million.

WATCH: How fast were wind speeds during the March 2020 tornado?

We have built a state-of-the-art facility that will house our worship, our Christian education, and also provide a space for the community to come to, Boyd told News 2. Thank God for the city of Nashville. We thank God for all of those who have participated in any way, whether large or small. We pray that you just continue to push us, support us and pray for us as we continue to be the light that God calls us to be.

(Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN) (Photo: WKRN)

In the meantime, the congregation is worshiping out of the Stone River Headquarters on Lischey Avenue.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Boyd was excited to announce that the end of construction is near. He told News 2 that hes hopeful his church will be able to open up the doors of its newly upgraded facility on Arthur Avenue by May 4.



To help Mount Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with recovery efforts, visit their website.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Mar. 3Editor's note: Every Sunday Josh Sweigart, editor of investigations and solutions journalism, brings you the top stories from the Dayton Daily News and major stories over the past week you may have missed. Go here to sign up to receive the Weekly Update newsletter and our Morning Briefing delivered to your inbox every morning.

In May, the parliamentary assembly of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization will hold its first meeting in the U.S. in 20 years in Dayton. The event will mark the 30th anniversary of the Dayton Peace Accords. The NATO Parliamentary Assembly is a big deal, and this event was years in the making. Today, we look at what this means for Dayton.

Here are five things to know from our reporting:

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1. Security concerns: The last NATO Parliamentary Assembly in Montreal in November was marred by protesters crashing with police. It was a violent scene, with smashed storefront windows and cars set ablaze. In this story, reporter Cornelius Frolik looks at whether Dayton could see such chaos and what's being done to prepare.

2. NATO village: Partially in response to what happened in Montreal, event organizers are establishing a "NATO village" encompassing much of downtown Dayton where foreign delegates will meet. Access to this area will be restricted. Go here for a map of the secure area and what it means for downtown businesses.

3. World stage: The NATO Parliamentary Assembly is coming to Dayton as NATO itself faces an existential crisis over how to respond to the war in Ukraine. In this story, we look at how Dayton will be on the world stage during a historic time amid debate over how to end the bloodiest conflict in Europe since NATO was formed after World War II.

4. Local venues: CareSource properties and the Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center will host NATO events, with a possible closing celebration at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. This story looks at what this means for those venues. They will also host cultural events such as a "Concert of Peace" featuring the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra.

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5. Price tag: U.S. Rep. Mike Turner, R-Dayton, was instrumental in bringing the NATO Parliamentary Assembly to Dayton (he wrote this recent column about NATO and Ukraine), and obtained $2 million in federal funds to help pay for it. The state of Ohio is spending another $5.3 million for security.

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RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN)  An eastern North Carolina gang leader with Mad Max as his nickname was sentenced to 4.5 years in prison in a plea agreement over illegally converting firearms into machine guns, federal officials said Monday.

In a plea deal, Quayshaun Deonte Howington, 33, of Ahoskie was convicted of the illegal transfer of a machine gun, according to a Monday news release from the U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of North Carolina.

A sealed indictment for the high ranking member of the G-Shine set of the United Blood Nation street gang led to Howingtons arrest in November 2023, officials said.

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The case began in April 2023 when police and deputies in Ahoskie and Hertford County launched an investigation into the illegal sale of firearm switches by Howington, federal officials said.

A row of AR-15 style rifles is displayed for a photograph, one with a conversion device installed making it fully automatic, and one a fully automatic M-16 machine gun, at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), National Services Center, Thursday, March 2, 2023, in Martinsburg, W.Va. Machine guns have been illegal in the U.S. for decades, but in recent years the country has seen a new surge of weapons capable of automatic fire. Small pieces of plastic or metal used to convert legal guns into homemade machine guns are helping to fuel gun violence. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Authorities determined he was selling machinegun conversion devices, or switches, which convert semi-automatic firearms to fully automatic, the news release said.

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Law enforcement oversaw the controlled purchase of multiple switches from Howington between April and June of 2023, officials said in the release.

Experts determined the devices, called drop-in auto-sears, were produced by a 3D printer.

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In the plea agreement, Howington is set to spend 55 months in prison and three years on supervised release, officials said.

It reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of our community and sends a clear message to those involved in the sale of illegal narcotics, firearms, and violent crimewe will arrest you, prosecute you, and you will go to prison, Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes said in the news release.

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For the first time since late September, Interstate 40 reopened on March 1, 2025 to traffic in the Pigeon River Gorge. (Photo: NCDOT)

For NCDOT engineers, road crews and certainly the residents of western North Carolina, Saturday was a day for smiles and celebration. For the first time since late September, Interstate 40 reopened to traffic in the Pigeon River Gorge near the North Carolina-Tennessee state line.

The one-lane stretch extends approximately 12 miles from Exit 7 in North Carolina to Exit 447 in Tennessee. For the time being, drivers are cautioned to expect narrow lanes, a 35 mile per hour speed limit, and a 9-inch by 9-inch concrete curb separating traffic in opposite directions.

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Thats far from the interstate speeds motorists enjoyed last summer, but its a huge milestone in the recovery process. NCDOT engineers estimate that Helene washed away about three million cubic yards of dirt, rock and material from the side of I-40.

The initial stabilization process involved driving steel rods into the bedrock, filling the rods with grout, applying a metal screen then sprayable concrete to the face of the walls. Crews installed 90,000 square feet of soil-nail walls across the 10 different damage locations, according to a release by the Department of Transportation.

Amid progress, new worries about federal funding

State Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins told legislators last week the biggest challenge remains the scale of the storm with nearly 9,400 individual damage sites including 800 bridges that need attention.

North Carolina Secretary of Transportation Joey Hopkins (Photo: NCGA video stream)

The states share of a federal match could cost North Carolina nearly a billion dollars.

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The governor and I did send a letter to the USDOT and others this past Monday, requesting them to fully fund our repairs. I dont know that well have success with that, but Ill tell this body that others have had success in the past, said Hopkins.

Hopkins said his agency has also asked the federal government to accelerate some of the programs that FEMA has in place.

They have a program where they do expedited reimbursement, where they pay you 50 cents on a dollar. Weve utilized that here, partially.

Hopkins said that could enable the state to reach more damage sites sooner.

But North Carolinas desire to see more federal aid delivered faster comes at a time President Trump and Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) are actively cancelling contracts and firing federal workers.

Rep. Maria Cervania (D-Wake) worries about how federal cuts will impact Helene recovery and other transportation projects that rely on federal funds. (Photo: NCGA video stream)

Representative Maria Cervania (D-Wake) noted this unprecedented approach to governing at the federal level could impact not just western North Carolinas recovery, but also multi-modal commitments to high-speed rail, and improvements at the states airports.

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What is your department doing to prepare if we dont get comparable level of federal funding along with the fact of western North Carolina, but just our general needs? asked Cervania. How do we need to work in partnership to address our future needs in terms of transportation, especially in Wake County, Mecklenburg County, but all rural areas, too?

Hopkins acknowledged while the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) helped the state advance several projects, things in D.C. are a little up in the air now.

The much-celebrated S-line rail project, a billion-dollar investment, between Raleigh and Wake Forest has been put on hold until further notice.

Weve got a big grant for the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, Alligator River Bridge is another one. Those grants are also on hold, said Hopkins in detailing how the new administration was reshaping construction projects for NCDOT.

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Sec. Hopkins said this week he will travel to D.C. to meet with his counterparts in the U.S. DOT in hopes of getting these projects back on track.

I dont know that they will or not, but were going to try to make that happen.

The state has also been appealing to Congressman David Rouzer, chair of the U.S. House Highway Subcommittee for Transportation.

Yet another unknown is whether this month will bring a continuing resolution or a shutdown for the United States government.

When [the] agencies that we work with arent fully funded, then they cant fully fund the things we need, and so that kind of gets us in fits and starts until we can get things going, Hopkins acknowledged.

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He believes the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) would like to make a larger commitment to North Carolina for Helene recovery, but its budget only runs through March 14th.

They struggle with that because they cant guarantee those dollars moving forward, he said.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. (Photo by Morgan Trau, WEWS.)

In the past two weeks, Ohio leaders have been out front in a bipartisan effort to impose the strictest rules yet on pharmacy middlemen said to be using anticompetitive practices to drive up the price of drugs and to drive pharmacies out of business.

State Attorney General Dave Yost and U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson, R-Zanesville, are calling for continued efforts at reform.

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The middlemen, known as pharmacy benefit managers or PBMs, facilitate prescription drug transactions covered by insurance. Each of the biggest three is part of one of the 15 largest corporations in the United States  UnitedHealth Group, CVS Health and Cigna-Express Scripts  and each of those also owns a top-10 insurer.

The big-three PBMs control almost 80% of the marketplace and they decide which drugs are covered by insurance and which will have low copayments or none at all. That enables them to negotiate huge rebates and fees from drugmakers in exchange for insuring their products.

PBMs say that allows them to achieve savings for consumers. But the deals are not transparent and its unclear how much of what they get from drugmakers makes ends up in the PBMs bottom lines.

Academic research has found that as rebates rise, so do list prices and out-of-pocket costs for consumers. And the Federal Trade Commission is suing the big PBMs, accusing them of excluding cheaper forms of insulin from their lists of covered drugs because more expensive ones generate greater rebates.

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Meanwhile, PBMs also decide how much to reimburse pharmacies for the drugs they dispense. Each of their parent companies owns a mail-order pharmacy and CVS also owns the largest retail chain. So that puts the PBMs in the position of deciding how much to pay themselves and their competitors.

For nearly a decade, independent pharmacies and small chains have said the big PBMs reimbursements are so low that theyre driving them out of business.

There might be something to those claims. According to a data tool released this month by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, the number of retail pharmacies in the state dropped below 2,000 for the first time in at least a decade despite modest population growth.

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It was against this backdrop that the U.S. House of Representatives in December nearly passed the most sweeping federal PBM reforms yet as part of a deal to keep the government open. With then-President-elect Trump expressing support, the reforms made it into what seemed like the final deal.

Among the measures in the continuing resolution was one that would stop PBMs from paying hundreds of different, non-transparent prices for the same drug in state Medicaid programs. Instead, all reimbursements would be based on the same, publicly available list, and PBMs would be paid a flat administrative fee. That measure would save taxpayers an estimated $1 billion over 10 years.

Another measure would stop PBMs from imposing take-it-or-leave-it contacts on pharmacies in Medicare Part D programs.

But then billionaires Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy tanked the deal by claiming it spent too much. Despite their expected savings, the PBM reforms didnt make their way into the massive spending plan that passed with Trumps backing.

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Rep. Jake Auchincloss, D-Mass., called it an embarrassing capitulation to the health insurance lobby.

But Yost, the Ohio attorney general, is trying to make any capitulation a brief one. After scrutinizing the drug middlemen as state auditor and suing them as attorney general, he led a bipartisan group of 39 state attorneys general last week in calling on Congress for action.

Our offices and other state attorneys general are very concerned about actions taken by PBMs that have unduly raised drug prices for consumers, and we are engaging on the issue on a number of fronts, including investigation, litigation, and advocating for legislative and policy reforms, their letter said. They added, however, that there can be no substitute for federal action.

The attorneys general are pushing for passage of three bills.

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One would delink PBM charges from drug prices, thereby removing any incentive to favor more expensive drugs over cheaper ones. Another would require that PBMs serving Medicare Part D only charge flat fees set forth in a written agreement, and that arent related to drug prices or rebates.

The third, the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, is intended to shine a light into all manner of health transactions, including hospitalization. For drugs, it would require disclosure of what drugs are dispensed, what their net prices are and patients out-of-pocket costs.

Together, the legislation is intended to limit PBMs from unjustifiably increasing drug prices and to mandate steps that increase transparency of their practices, Yosts office said in a statement. Specifically, this step encompasses the obligation for PBMs to furnish pricing data to health plans and federal and state regulators in a standardized format. Such measures will empower health plans to negotiate more advantageous agreements with PBMs and enable regulators to more effectively hold PBMs accountable for their actions.

Each of the bills is pending in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. On Wednesday, Ohios Balderson joined two other Republican committee members in saying its high time for reform.

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As a result of PBMs indecent practices, independent pharmacies around the country are closing, he said during a hearing of the Health Subcommittee. I know that in my district we are not strangers to this issue. I hear from my friends, family, and constituents alike that their trusted pharmacies have closed after decades of serving their communities. Pharmacy deserts have continued to grow and patients no longer have access to patient pharmacist relationships that has helped them manage complex medication regimes and diseases. Its estimated that between 2018 and 2021 alone, the number of pharmacies has declined in 41 states. So, this is not just an Ohio problem. This is not a rural problem. This is a countrywide issue that needs addressed.

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Nearly 600 migrants crossed the Channel in small boats on Sunday  the largest number on a single day so far this year.

A total of 592 people were intercepted by Border Force vessels in 11 dinghies throughout the day as people-smugglers took advantage of calm seas and sunny skies.

It marked a record for the year so far and was the largest number of migrants to arrive at the Port of Dover in Kent since 609 people made the crossing in nine boats on Dec 12, according to official figures.

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Five required medical treatment  including one who was critically injured  after their boat ran aground on the North sea wall of Hardelot, more than 30 miles down the coast from Calais. The French coastguard reported that two people were treated for hypothermia.

Teams were working all day to recover those on the vessels, with some rescued by Garonne, a French navy ship, and others by emergency services workers.

Sundays arrivals took the number of migrants to cross the Dover Straits so far this year to 2,716 on 51 boats. That is some 20 per cent more than at the same point last year, equivalent to 500 more people, but eight per cent lower than at this point in 2023.

Last year, a total of 36,816 migrants arrived in 695 boats, the second highest number on record behind 2022, when 45,755 reached the UK in dinghies. At least five people have died attempting the dangerous voyage this year.

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Groups of people in red life jackets were led off several Border Force vessels throughout the day at the immigration processing centre at Dovers Western Docks after being intercepted in mid-Channel. They were later taken to holding centres.

Dozens more migrants are expected to make the crossing on Monday despite early freezing and foggy conditions.

A Home Office spokesman said: We all want to end dangerous small boat crossings, which threaten lives and undermine our border security.

The people-smuggling gangs do not care if the vulnerable people they exploit live or die, as long as they pay. We will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.

A number of small boats and motors believed to have been used by migrants crossing the Channel are seen at a warehouse in Dover - Gareth Fuller/PA

The record figure comes as the French government indicated that it would lift a ban on migrants boats being stopped at sea for the first time in an effort to reduce illegal Channel crossings.

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Bruno Retailleau, the French interior minister, said on Thursday that he was seeking a law change to allow migrants to be tackled out of boats in shallow water. The change would also permit police to use their own boats to take on people-smugglers carrying migrants to the UK on overloaded vessels for the first time.

Britain has agreed to extend a deal with France to reduce small boat crossings until 2027 on the condition that it completes the construction of a detention centre in Dunkirk.

The 12.5 million centre was central to the three-year deal signed by Rishi Sunak and Emmanuel Macron, the French president, to bolster border security on the French coast in 2023. However. construction has been delayed because of planning rows.

Downing Street insisted the Government is taking action to curb crossings, addressing the chaos in the asylum system and stepping up returns of people with no legal right to be in the UK, but there are no quick fixes to the global problem of illegal migration.

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The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Were taking the measures that will ultimately deter and smash people-smuggling gangs that have been plying this illegal trade.

Were extending a deal with France to step up our work.

Nearly 26,000 migrants have crossed the Channel since Labour won the election last July.

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U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., addresses supporters outside of his west Omaha campaign office at a press conference claiming victory in November 2024. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

OMAHA  Nebraska Republican U.S. Rep. Don Bacon stepped onto a national stage Sunday to express concerns about President Donald Trumps recent statements about Ukraine.

On the CBS news program 60 Minutes, Bacon, a retired Air Force brigadier general, said it appeared that the president was trying to appease Russian leader Vladimir Putin by saying that Ukraine started the war in that Eastern European nation and that any peace deal should include no security guarantee from the West. Both are common arguments put forward by the Kremlin.

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I hope its not as bad as it sounds, Bacon told 60 Minutes correspondent Scott Pelley. America is the leader of the free world, were the indispensable power. No one can stand up to Russia and China if were not a part of that.

Ukraine is the victim, he added. I think Putin has made clear he wants to reestablish his old borders, and thats not in our national security interests  its also a moral issue.

While Bacon said it appears as if Trump is trying to curry favor with Putin with his comments, the congressman added, I dont know his motives. Some people think hes doing this for negotiating and maybe to help get a better deal.

I dont know. All I know is what he says, Bacon said. And when he says Russia is not the invader and (that) its Ukraines fault, thats just wrong.

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Is there danger in this? Pelley asked Bacon.

Yes, the Omaha-area congressman responded, because he worries that the national security framework established after World World II, in which NATO was formed by the West to ensure peace, is going to collapse.

Bacon and Trump have had a complicated history, with both men having endorsed one another after seeking other options. But Bacon has ultimately endorsed Trump three times. Nebraska Democrats have criticized Bacon as willing to criticize Trump in the press to appear independent but saying that he ends up siding with the president when it matters.

The 60 Minutes segment was spawned by a turbulent week in Washington in which Trump called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a dictator. Trump also blamed Ukraine for starting the war when it was Russia that invaded in March of 2023.

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Matters escalated Friday when, in a fiery, live television exchange with Zelenskyy during his visit to the White House, Trump said that U.S. aid to his country has allowed the Ukrainian president to be the tough guy, and if the country didnt make a cease fire deal and proceeds without American help, Its not going to be pretty.

The exchange followed Vice President J.D. Vance telling Zelenskyy that diplomacy was what would end the war, and what Trump was doing was seeking a diplomatic end to the fighting.

Things became heated after Zelenskyy asked Vance, What kind of diplomacy? Zelenskyy tried to explain that diplomacy had been attempted, but the Russians wouldnt live up to the terms and cannot be trusted.

His words were often drowned out by comments from Vance and Trump. Others interviewed during the program also questioned Trumps approach.

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Gen. H.R. McMaster, who had served as Trumps national security advisor until resigning in 2018 over differences with the president, told Pelley that Trump was being played by Putin, whom he called a master manipulator.

U.S. Sen. Angus King, an independent from Maine, said Ukrainians had done the dying in the war with Russia, and all they wanted from the U.S., was the ability to defend themselves.

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Student cellphone use in schools is a hot topic in the Nebraska Legislature and elsewhere nationally. (Stock photo by Willie B. Thomas/Getty Images)

LINCOLN  One of Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillens priorities advanced to the second round of debate with a vote on Monday, as a statewide cell phone ban in schools inched closer to becoming law.

The bill would ban student use of personal electronic devices, such as cellphones, on school grounds or while attending a school instructional function, such as field trips. But it would leave school districts wide latitude in approving student cellphone use, including some exceptions.

State Sen. Rita Sanders of Bellevue. July 25, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Senators advanced Legislative Bill 140 Monday with bipartisan support, 44-0, with five lawmakers not voting or excused.

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The proposed law moved out of the Education Committee 7-0, with one member absent. Pillen said during its public hearing last month that the bill focuses on student mental health and that he should have pushed the legislation earlier in his term as governor.

The evidence, in my view, is crystal clear: Our kids are being harmed by their constant exposure to these things, Pillen said at the time.

Several other states have pushed for similar legislation on students cell phones with similar bipartisan support, but some experts warn that these types of restrictions could be outdated or challenging for classroom teachers and schools to enforce. State Sen. Terrell McKinney of Omaha echoed similar concerns.

Most schools already have these policies, which are good, McKinney said on the floor. The only thing I think about is how these school districts will enforce this.

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McKinney added that there might be an uptick in classroom discipline issues because kids will be kids. During the same hearing at which Pillen testified, State Sen. Megan Hunt of Omaha voiced caution about whether students could quickly access phones in emergencies, such as during school shootings.

The bill addresses such concerns with exceptions. LB 140 would allow students to use cellphones at school in the following circumstances:

If needed as part of a students special education plan.

When authorized by a school district for educational purposes during instructional time.

In cases of emergency or perceived threat of danger.

When necessary to monitor or manage a students health care.

When otherwise determined appropriate by the school board or otherwise allowed by an appropriate school employee.

Should the bill pass, all of Nebraskas 245 school districts would have to adopt device-related policies to conform to the law by the start of the 2025-26 school year. The bill doesnt apply to private schools. Enforcement and possible disciplinary action for violating the guidelines, if any, would be left up to individual school districts

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Its time to prioritize student success by eliminating unnecessary distractions, said State Sen. Rita Sanders of Bellevue, the sponsor of LB 140.

In a possible hint of tension within the Legislature, State Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh of Omaha used her time to speak during the debate as a shot across the bow because the Nebraska Legislature has shown her that its going to screw over the poorest people in the state for just pettiness.

Im going to make this body fight like hell for the things that dont benefit low-income people, Cavanaugh said. Youre going to have to fight like hell for it, not this bill, even though it had some opposition, Im not opposed to it.

Editors Note: This story has been revised to reflect the round of debate advanced.

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Britains net zero drive has made families poorer, according to new research that contradicts Rachel Reevess claim that there is no trade-off between economic growth and decarbonisation.

Analysis by Peel Hunt showed a precipitous decline in electricity supply since the early 2000s coincided with much slower growth in living standards. The investment bank argued that the two were intrinsically linked.

Kallum Pickering, Peel Hunts chief economist, who conducted the research, said: Put simply, once the electricity available to the UK economy starts to decline, the trend rate of productivity slows sharply.

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If an economy throttles its production of energy, it impairs its capacity to produce all types of goods and services. Productivity is the major driver of per capita GDP.

The research comes amid rising concern about Britains anaemic growth, which has been flat since Labour came to power, and unease at the speed with which the country is embracing net zero relative to other nations.

Donald Trump has reversed many of the US governments green initiatives since coming to power and Chris Wright, the US energy secretary, has said Britains sinister goal of hitting net zero by 2050 is making millions of households poorer.

Ms Reeves, the Chancellor, has insisted that there is no trade-off between economic growth and net zero. Quite the opposite.

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However, Mr Pickering said: Our analysis challenges the Governments claim that there is no trade-off.

Two decades of experience suggests otherwise. The result of the UKs decarbonisation efforts, so far, appear to be weak economic growth, high energy prices, deindustrialisation and no significant impact on the overall trajectory of global emissions.

It suggests that Britains productivity slowdown began well before the financial crisis, in a trend that Peel Hunt said had cost everyone in the country the equivalent of 14,000, though not all of this can be attributed to decarbonisation policies.

Mr Pickering warned that Britain was now on course to slip behind Poland and South Korea in GDP-per-person terms  often used as a proxy for living standards  by the start of the next decade.

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This would undermine Sir Keir Starmers pledge to raise living standards across the country.

Peel Hunts analysis of almost 190 economies showed energy was closely linked to economic prosperity because of its key role in production.

Britains net zero drive began in the mid-2000s, when then energy secretary Ed Miliband introduced the Climate Change Act of 2008, which mandated an 80pc cut overall in greenhouse gases by 2050. The Tories went further by passing a law in 2019 to require the UK to bring all greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050.

Peel Hunt highlighted that electricity capacity in the UK declined by 21pc since peaking in 2005, as coal, oil, gas and nuclear power stations were shut.

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UK energy consumption per capita was roughly half the US level in 2005, with living standards roughly 79pc of the US level.

By 2022, energy consumption had declined to around 38pc of the US level, while per capita GDP had fallen to 74pc.

Mr Pickering said part of the divergence between British and American living standards could be explained by energy policy.

He said: While both the UK and the US plan to decarbonise, they have taken a very different approach so far. While the US has been growing its living standards while keeping per capita energy consumption roughly stable [much like the UK from 1990 to 2005], the UK has been holding its living standards broadly stable while cutting per capita energy consumption.

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Labour has argued that getting to net zero is not just a environmental imperative but an economic opportunity. In its manifesto, the party said it would create 650,000 jobs across the country by 2030 by investing in green power industries.

A recent report by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said the net zero economy and its supply claim now supported almost a million jobs and contributed more than 80bn to the economy.

However, a report by the Governments own climate advisers warned the potential economic benefits of net zero were uncertain and could even be negative.

The Climate Change Committee also estimated that reaching net zero will cost roughly 4bn a year on average for the next few decades after both benefits and costs are considered. The total net cost is expected to hit 110bn, or just under 4pc of GDP in todays money.

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Mr Wright, the US energy secretary, said last month Britain was impoverishing your own citizens in a delusion that this is somehow going to make the world a better place. Its not.

A Department for Energy Security and Net Zero spokesman said: We do not recognise these findings. The clean energy transition is the economic opportunity of the 21st century.

Our clean power mission will replace our dependency on unstable fossil fuel markets with homegrown clean power controlled in Britain  and create a new generation of good jobs across the country.

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A Newark man was behind bars on Monday, charged with burglarizing more than a bakers dozen Dunkin Donuts stores in two months.

Enajaim Bowman, 24, skipped the sweet dough and went for the green when he broke into the 14 stores between midnight and 4 a.m. in a burglary spree that ran from Dec. 13 to Jan. 19, authorities told the Bergen Record.

Bowman allegedly cleared out and vandalized cash registers, safes and managers offices, stealing $18,267.16 in cash, $140 worth of gift cards, and causing $10,000 in property damage in stores across four counties, the Bergen County Prosecutors Office said in a statement. His attempt to rob a 15th store was unsuccessful, authorities noted.

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Security cameras proved his undoing.

In these incidents, surveillance footage depicted a lone male burglarizing  or in one case attempting to burglarize  the stores by prying locked entry doors and windows, Bergen County prosecutors said.

Bowman was charged with 14 counts of third-degree burglary, one count of third-degree attempted burglary, 12 counts of third-degree theft, two counts of third-degree criminal mischief, and seven counts of fourth-degree criminal mischief.

He turned himself in last Tuesday, and his arrest was announced on Saturday. He was still being held on Monday, according to NBC News.

Dunkin has drawn thieves across the tristate area. In January alone, three Staten Island outlets were burglarized, and in the Bronx, two robbers held up a Dunkin employee at knifepoint.
We finally know what will happen to the Georgia cop behind the fatal shooting of a Black man who was just exonerated from a wrongful conviction before his death: absolutely nothing. Prosecutors made their decision about whether the cop should face charges.

The Camden County Sheriffs Office announced the decision made by District Attorney Keith Higgins that the fatal force used by Staff Sgt. Buck Aldridge toward Leonard Cure was not worth pursuing charges.

After reviewing the investigating case file in the above matter, I have concluded that under the totality of the circumstances, Deput Aldridges use of deadly force was objectively reasonable. The pursuit of criminal charges, therefore, is not warranted, read the letter from Higgins.

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The review findings came from the October 2023 incident when Cure was pulled over for a traffic stop. Cure had just been released from prison after serving 16 years following a wrongful conviction for a robbery, according to civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump.

According to dash camera footage, Aldridge approached Cures vehicle and immediately demanded he step out. Cure complied but continued asserting he did nothing wrong. Once outside the vehicle, Cure pulled his arm away from the officer when he reached to grab him. Cure complied with the order to place his hands on the back of his truck but refused to put his arms behind his back.

The officer then deployed his Taser which resulted in the two getting in a scuffle, per the video. As the two wrestled, at some point, the officer took his firearm and shot Cure. Authorities confirmed he died of his injuries at the scene.

Outrage followed the shooting as the public claimed police brutality took away the freedom Cure just gained after being wrong by the system. Many people called on Cure to be fired from the department. The sheriffs office placed Aldridge on leave following the shooting but he returned after two months, per The New York Times. Now, hes not looking at any more punishment.

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This decision is a devastating failure of justice, sending the message that law enforcement officers can take a life without consequence, said Crump in a statement. Leonard Cure was a man who had already fought so hard to reclaim his life after a wrongful conviction, only to have it stolen from him again. His family will not stop fighting for accountability, and neither will we. We will not let this grave injustice be forgotten. We will continue to demand accountability for the flaws in policing in this country.



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HARTFORD, Ala. (WDHN)  Scott Gaston Sr., who was just selected to be the Hartford police chief last week, has backed out of the position.

Sources tell WDHN News that he received a text from Gaston Sr., and Gaston Sr. stated that he is backing out due to personal reasons.

The Hartford City Council unanimously voted to appoint Scott Gaston Sr. as the police chief on Monday, February 24.

The vote was made during a special-called council meeting after they pushed the vote.

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Gaston Sr. works in law enforcement in Daytona Beach, Florida, and has an extensive background in the field.

Mayor Wendell Nolan told us that Gaston Sr. had been a chief in a small town before and had worked his way through the ranks in larger departments, making him a prime candidate for the position.

Following this news, it is expected that Brent Parrish will retain his position as interim police chief as the city works to find its next police chief.

Parrish took over the department in October after former full-time Chief Pete Markow resigned. Markow stepped down after a public disagreement with a Hartford councilwoman during a meeting.

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Before Markows resignation, the department had been dealing with staffing issues, and that still exists today.

The city council will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 3.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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LOS ANGELES (NewsNation)  Nearly two months since the start of the California wildfires, Gov. Gavin Newsom is suspending some landmark environmental laws to expedite prevention efforts.

This follows President Donald Trumps harsh criticism of the states wildfire management and comes as the housing market sees surging demand for land destroyed by the fires.

Newsom: Rebuilding with resiliency

The suspension of environmental laws, including Californias Environmental Quality Act and Coastal Act, allows for rebuilding without time-consuming analysis or mitigation work.

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Newsoms state of emergency will fast-track vegetation and tree removal to prevent further destruction.

The decision comes as authorities issue widespread warnings to avoid the waters from Malibu to Santa Monica due to toxic conditions and fire debris. Waves of ash debris have been accumulating for weeks since the fires.

In announcing the suspension of the environmental acts, Newsom emphasized a push to rebuild smarter.

Its very limited in scope in its focus with a high level of energy and commitment to rebuilding smarter, rebuilding with resiliency and climate and science in mind, rebuilding with redundancy, rebuilding with a much more aggressive posture to address the inevitability that there are going to be large scale fires in and around the region into the future, Newsom said.

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Controlled burns and the creation of more fuel breaks will be part of the new forest management strategy, though critics have repeatedly noted that more than half of Californias forests are federal land. With recent Department of Government Efficiency cuts, it has seen reduced oversight from federal employees.

In addition, Newsom is requesting $40 billion in federal aid for fire recovery in Los Angeles.

How are residents rebuilding?

As for recovering and rebuilding, the Wall Street Journal reports that more than 80 decimated land plots in the Palisades and Altadena have been listed for sale since mid-February.

These properties are priced similarly to their pre-fire values, with small and mid-sized real estate investors and developers as the main buyers.

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While these early sales suggest some residents may be leaving, they also show that the areas remain desirable, with potential for rising property values over time.

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Friedrich Merz, the leader of the German Christian Democratic Party and projected next chancellor, believes that the dispute in the White House during the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was deliberately caused by the US side.

Source: European Pravda, citing Merz's words

Details: Mertz said he had watched the footage of the meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy in the Oval Office several times.

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"In my opinion, there was no spontaneous reaction to Zelenskyy's statements at this meeting in the Oval Office, but obviously, there was a deliberate escalation. Usually, such meetings with the press last only a few minutes. On Friday, it was different," Mertz said.

He noted that he was "quite surprised, including by the mutual tone of the dialogue".

Mertz said the clash between Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump fits in with the US government's current behaviour.

At the same time, he stressed that he is in favour of "doing everything possible to keep Americans in Europe". Merz believes that the US is also interested in this.

Background:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the White House early on Friday, 28 February, after a quarrel with Donald Trump and JD Vance.

In response, Donald Trump said that the Ukrainian president had been disrespectful to the United States and that Volodymyr Zelenskyy was not ready for peace.

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The Roundhouse in Santa Fe pictured Jan. 24, 2024. (Photo by Patrick Lohmann / Source NM)

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grishams brother has opted out of becoming the new student regent for New Mexico Highlands University, citing the distraction his nomination had become, Gregory Lujan told Source New Mexico on Monday.

The governors appointment of her brother, first reported Feb. 17 in Source New Mexico, came amid legislative efforts to reform university governance in the wake of a spending scandal at Western New Mexico University. Lujan referenced the fallout from the Silver City university in a statement he texted to Source New Mexico.

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Given the ongoing situation at Western New Mexico University, I feel it has become a significant distraction, Lujan said of his appointment as student regent. And I want to ensure it does not negatively impact my family, employment, or education.

Lujan said his new job at the New Mexico Game and Fish Department is where he will instead be continuing my familys long tradition of public service. Lujan told the Santa Fe New Mexican hes taken a job there as a procurement and loss-prevention specialist.

I would like to sincerely thank my friends, family, employers, and well wishers for their kind words of support, as well as those that took the time to write beautiful letters of recommendation on my behalf, he said in his statement to Source.

Lujan Grisham has said she encouraged her brother to apply for the job because she thought hed be a great fit for the two-year, unpaid position on the board overseeing the university based in Las Vegas, N.M. Current regents told Source New Mexico that Lujan has been a student for the last couple of years.

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The appointment, which is subject to Senate confirmation, had not yet been scheduled. Some Senate Republicans criticized the governor for choosing her brother.

To be selected as regent, Lujan applied to the university president, who passed the recommendation onto the governor. Some lawmakers are seeking to amend the state Constitution to require a similar process for all regents, not just student-regents, in part to restore confidence in regent appointments now sometimes perceived as political handouts or cronyism.

Other bills would require regents to act as fiduciaries and take additional training.

Lujan said he was grateful to the Highlands Board of Regents and to his sister for appointing him.

While this decision was not easy, I remain committed to serving the people of New Mexico, Lujan said.
Britain has distanced itself from a proposal by the French president for a one-month truce between Russia and Ukraine.

Emmanuel Macron said on Sunday that France and Britain were proposing a limited four-week ceasefire in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure but not, initially at least, covering ground fighting.

But Kyiv has raised reservations about any end to the fighting without security guarantees.

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And on Monday, one British official said there was no agreement on the truce plan.

There are various options on the table, subject to further discussions with the US and European partners, but a one-month truce has not been agreed, the official told the Financial Times.

France insists a one-month truce would test Vladimir Putins good faith in wishing to end this war.

Speaking to France Inter radio on Monday, Jean-Noel Barrot, the French foreign minister, insisted that a one-month time frame would allow to prove the good will of Vladimir Putin if he commits to a truce.

And its then that real peace negotiations would start. We want a solid peace and a durable peace, he added.

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An initial phase was a way of verifying that Russia is willing to end this war, said Mr Barrot, specifying that no withdrawal of Russian troops on the ground was envisaged during the truce.

Mr Zelensky attended the summit in London along with 18 other world leaders - Justin Tallis/Getty Images

His comments came a day after European leaders rallied around Ukraine at a summit in London after the acrimonious White House spat between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president.

Mr Macron only revealed the plan for a one-month truce on the flight back from London in an interview with Le Figaro, which wrote: Emmanuel Macron does not believe in the ceasefire agreement between the Americans and the Russians, convinced that Vladimir Putin will first of all try to humiliate Ukraine, in particular by demilitarising it.

As an alternative, it said Mr Macron and Sir Keir Starmer proposed a one-month truth that would not involve ground troops.

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The advantage, he said, was we know how to measure it.

You have to bear in mind that the front line today is the equivalent of the Paris-Budapest line (in terms of distance). In the event of a ceasefire, it would be very difficult to check that the front was being respected, Mr Macron said.

European peacekeeping troops would only be deployed at a later stage, he made clear.

There will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks. The question is how we use this time to try to obtain an accessible truce, with negotiations that will take several weeks and then, once peace has been signed, a deployment.

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The French president added: We want peace. We dont want it at any price, without guarantees.

However, on Monday, Luke Pollard, the UK Armed Forces minister, downplayed Mr Macrons comments, insisting no agreement has been made on what a truce looks like.

But we are working together with France and our European allies to look at what is the path to how... we create a lasting and durable peace in Ukraine, Mr Pollard told Times Radio.

Ukrainian armed forces fire a M109 155mm self-propelled howitzer towards Russian positions in the Donetsk region - Getty Images

He said: We think it essential there is a US backstop to make this work.

Asked again, Mr Pollard replied: At the moment, weve pledged that the UK will step up as part of that multinational movement. Were still working through those negotiations.

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He added: I dont think its right to get into making an announcement before weve obviously reached the deal, which I obviously cant do If the US isnt involved, we will struggle to get that durable peace.

As discussions continue over the form of any ceasefire, the UK and France are pushing for a Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Canada and Turkey are involved in discussions about joining Sir Keirs so-called coalition of the willing, which could see soldiers being sent to Ukraine to enforce a deal.

The plan is the UK and Frances response to a series of private requests made by Mr Trump following his public row with Mr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, Bloomberg reports.

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The US president wants Mr Zelensky to apologise and declare that he wants peace before returning to the White House to sign a minerals agreement.

Mr Trump is also unwilling to commit to backing European troops who are sent to Ukraine until Europe produces a plan to stop the fighting.

Asked to comment on whether Mr Zelensky was gambling with World War Three, a claim Mr Trump made during the Oval Office row, the French foreign minister acknowledged the danger of the conflict spreading.

Never has the risk of a war in Europe, in the European Union, been so high... the threat keeps getting closer to us, the front line keeps getting closer to us, said Mr Barrot.

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To end the Russian war of aggression in Ukraine, we want the United States, through pressure, to be able to bring Vladimir Putin to the negotiating table and agree to put an end once and for all to his imperialist ambitions which have moved the front line closer and closer to home, he added.

Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, said Sundays London summit was not aimed at achieving peace.

This clearly does not relate to a peace plan, but would allow for the continuation of hostilities, he told reporters.

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The EU does not have a united stance on giving Ukraine frozen Russian assets, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on March 2 at a London summit focused on Ukraine.

Western nations froze $300 billion in Russian assets at the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ukraine has only received loans covered by interest earned from the frozen assets.

"Everyone understands it would be best to transfer these funds for the purpose of defense and reconstruction of Ukraine," Tusk said.

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The freeze on Russian assets in the EU is due to expire in June. Tusk called for the EU to extend the sanctions against Russian assets amid fears of opposition from Hungary which has repeatedly clashed with the EU over implementing sanctions against Russia.

"We need to focus on extending the sanctions, because they are working," Tusk said.

The EU must maintain sanctions against Russia. Sanctions are contributing to Russian economic and financial weakness, Tusk added.

"There are fears of negative consequences for the euro and the banking system," the leader said.

Read also: Europe is sitting on Russias $198 billion. Giving it all to Ukraine is tricky

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Poland is calling for other EU member states to support transferring Russian assets to Ukraine but does not have a decisive voice as it is not part of the eurozone, Tusk added.

Currently, interest earned on frozen Russian assets is being used to help Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression, the leader said.

Leadership in Hungary and Slovakia have spread pro-Russian narratives on many occasions and have repeatedly opposed support for Ukraine from the EU.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban urged EU leaders to abandon a joint statement in support of Ukraine ahead of a summit on March 6.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Europe developing coalition of the willing to back ceasefire in Ukraine, Starmer says

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LAKE COUNTY, Ill. (WGN)  In a stunning twist, Robert Crimo III on Monday morning pleaded guilty to murder charges connected to the mass shooting at the 2022 Highland Park Independence Day parade, killing seven.

The development came just as opening statements were to begin in the trial that was set after Crimo rejected an earlier deal from prosecutors. In June 2024, he was expected to accept a plea deal and give victims and relatives a chance to address him publicly. The rejection at the time surprised even his lawyers.

Man pleads guilty to Highland Park parade mass shooting charges

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Mom of Highland Park shooter asserts sons innocence after courtroom outburst

These are the victims of the Highland Park parade shooting

WGN Full Coverage: Highland Park Parade Shooting & trial of Robert Crimo III

But what happened Monday was not the result of any deal, Lake County States Attorney Eric Rinehart stressed.

Let me be clear, this was not a negotiation, this was not a deal, Rinehart told reporters after the hearing at the county courthouse in Waukegan. He made a free decision to plead guilty to every single count. He received nothing in exchange for this plea today.

Crimo took an open plea in the case against him. In doing so, he avoids trial and allows a judge to sentence him without a prior agreement from prosecutors on what sentence theyd recommend. A defendant will sometimes reject an offer or deal in hopes of receiving a lesser sentence from the judge as opposed to what the prosecution might seek.

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This is no agreement whatsoever. He pleaded guilty to every single count, Rinehart said. He walked into the courtroom through his attorneys, who are incredibly experienced defense attorneys who have represented him for years.

Specifically, Crimo pleaded guilty to 21 counts of murder, three counts for each victim who was killed, and another 48 counts of attempted murder. Additional counts of aggravated battery were dropped last week.

The finality of it is the same, and we didnt just do a trial on those topics, Rinehart added. He plead guilty to all 69 counts, the exact same 69 counts that were about to be presented to the jury, they are the top charges. They are the highest charges. And they cover the years that the court has discussed.

Judge Victoria Rossetti read the charges to Crimo and asked questions to be sure he understood before any open plea was read to the court. He was sitting next to his lawyers wearing a dark suit.

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Is that what you went over with your attorneys? Rossetti asked.

Yes, Crimo replied to the judge.

Rossetti is scheduled to sentence Crimo on April 23. The possible sentence on each count is 26 to 50 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
Gov. Dan McKee is shown in his new reelection campaign sizzle reel unveiled Monday, March 3, 2025. (Courtesy of McKee campaign)

Gov. Dan McKee knew it wouldnt be easy, but whats worth fighting for never is.

So begins the video advertisement from McKees campaign, announcing the governors intention to seek reelection in the 2026 gubernatorial race. The nearly two-minute spot was shared with Rhode Island Current Sunday, ahead of a Monday morning release on major print and broadcast platforms.

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Its not actually McKees official campaign kickoff, which will happen early in 2026, said Mike Trainor, McKees campaign manager. Instead, Trainor said the video produced by Chicago-based AL Media Strategy aims to quiet any rumors that McKee might not enter the race.

The campaign wanted to dispel any doubts that the governor will not run for reelection, as has been speculated by some in the news media and political circles, Trainor said.

The sitting governor is the first to officially throw his hat in the ring, though one of his former rivals, Helena Buonanno Foulkes, has also been ramping up campaign fundraising and rallying supporters ahead of a potential rematch with McKee in 2026.

Foulkes lost to McKee by 3 percentage points in a five-way Democratic gubernatorial primary in September 2022.

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McKees campaign video draws upon some of the first decisions he made upon ascending to governor in 2021, after then-Gov. Gina Raimondo was named U.S. Secretary of Commerce. The video cycles through still photos and press conference clips from the states early pandemic recovery, with a woman-narrated voiceover crediting McKee for reopening the state economy.

Other accomplishments of his four years in office cited in the video include his efforts to reduce absenteeism among public school students, a record $120 million affordable housing fund approved by voters in November and a trio of state gun safety laws. The video also touts the $250 million in federal grants secured to help rebuild the westbound Washington Bridge, but makes no mention of the uncertainty surrounding that funding under the new presidential administration.

However, the video notes McKees record in fighting Trumps radical agenda and chaotic leadership, such as protecting Rhode Island immigrants from deportation.

Trainor declined to say how much the campaign spent on video production and promotion. Payments to AL Media Strategy were not reflected in McKees campaign finance reports as of Dec. 31, the most recent information available.

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Jon Romano, Foulkes campaign manager, issued a statement in response to McKees video Monday morning.

The status quo for Rhode Island isnt working, Romano said. Only 29% of Rhode Islanders think the state is heading in the right direction, Hasbro is on the verge of leaving for Boston, housing is unaffordable for far too many, the Washington Bridge still isnt getting rebuilt, our schools are underperforming and were up against a $300 million budget shortfallwith looming threats from the Trump administration to cut vital services for our most vulnerable. With all the challenges facing our state and chaos in DC, Rhode Islanders deserve less self-congratulation and more focus on their everyday concerns.

Updated to include a comment from Jon Romano on behalf of Helena Buonanno Foulkes campaign.

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EAU CLAIRE  No one was hurt in a Saturday evening collision between a vehicle and a train near Augusta.

The crash happened in the 22600 block of Kruger Road. Authorities concluded the driver of the vehicle failed to yield as the train approached. Despite serious damage, the driver walked away unharmed. Those on the train were also uninjured.

The investigation remains ongoing.
The humiliation of President Zelensky on live TV by Donald Trump and his attack dog sidekick JD Vance was a horrifying spectacle that disgraced the most powerful office on the planet.

The irony of Ukraines courageous leader being labelled disrespectful after his shocking treatment at the hands of what has been its most important ally in the fight against Putins army, really is hard to overstate.

Trump wouldnt know respect if it turned up caked in his own bright orange make-up.

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That extraordinary diplomatic car crash was the moment that the international order shifted permanently. In recent weeks, the Trump administration has been signalling that Europe can no longer rely on the US to be its prime military protector.

But the unforgivable humbling of Zelensky seemed to indicate something more serious. Europe is perilously close to being abandoned by a US president who seems to think his America First mantra must come at the cost of some of the most enduring alliances in the Western world.

The ramifications will be far-reaching, starting with an immediate existential crisis for Nato.

With European leaders scrambling to rearm and build a coalition of the willing to keep the peace in Ukraine if Kyiv can somehow reach a truce with the Kremlin, investors envisaged a mega-bonanza for the Continents war machine.

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Shares in BAE Systems surged as much as 18.5pc  its biggest single-day jump on record  on Monday morning, having already risen 22pc this year.

German arms manufacturer Rheinmetall leapt 16.5pc, following gains of as much as 70pc in 2025. Shares in French defence manufacturer Thales rocketed 18pc in Paris after the Prime Minister announced a 1.6bn deal for its Belfast factory to supply missiles to Ukraine.

Continental defence stocks were hailed by Mabrouk Chetouane, analyst at Natixis Global, as the trade of the quarter for sure.

Perhaps. What surely isnt a trade to relish is the sale of any more of Britains premier defence companies to opportunistic American bidders. On the contrary, it is hard to think of anything more reckless.

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It is why any renewed attempt by US private equity house Bain Capital to snap up 119-year-old defence whizz Chemring must be blocked from the outset, on the basis that American predators can no longer be trusted.

Its not that selling off your defence assets used to be a good idea and now its suddenly not. In what must rank as one of the stupidest acts of any government, this country allowed several of its most important defence suppliers to fall into overseas hands at precisely the moment that Putin was threatening the West with nuclear Armageddon.

If allowing swathes of your homegrown defence industry to be controlled by ruthless, unaccountable foreign buyers is staggeringly daft in any case, the timing was utterly unfathomable.

Yet the sale of Chemring just as America turns its back on Europe would surpass all previous deals in the absurdity stakes.

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After the loss of GKN in 2018, and then Cobham in 2020, Britains defence industry was already in danger of being hollowed out when Russia invaded Ukraine.

Any streetwise government would have called an immediate end to such self-harm in the national interest. Yet, somehow Conservative ministers still stood idly by and allowed Ultra Electronics and then Meggitt to become prey too.

The sale of Ultra  five months after Putins invasion  was the biggest head-scratcher of all. The company makes sonobuoys capable of tracking Russian submarines.

It was a reflection of yet another Cabinet that wrongly conflates such financial deals with genuine foreign investment. It was also indicative of a total failure of industrial policy under Boris Johnson, not to mention a complete absence of strategic thinking.

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What was particularly confusing about this pathetically weak stance is that Johnson, for all his faults, had repeatedly been at the forefront of efforts to corral the West into stiffening its resolve over Ukraine whenever he met with his more reticent G7 counterparts.

Lobbyists rushed to defend the transactions on the basis that the buyers were mostly from the US. It didnt matter, they said  there was no risk of the British military losing access to its own pioneering technology because the UK and the US were basically indistinguishable when it came to foreign policy. They were joined at the hip.

By failing to intervene on national security grounds, it appeared as though ministers had fallen for the spin.

For all his work in rallying Europe to Ukraines cause, Boris Johnson allowed important British defence companies to be sold off - Leon Neal/PA

Worse, ministers seemed to have allowed themselves to be bullied by Washington into softening its approach to the American-led takeover assault on Britains defence and aerospace sector.

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This newspaper revealed how US officials had threatened to limit defence cooperation with us if the Government stood in the way of a US-led 2.6bn private equity buyout of Ultra at a time when the Kremlins vessels were stalking Royal Navy ships in various locations around the world.

It was the moment that America  our supposed greatest ally  revealed it was prepared to put its own interests first when it mattered. The incident should have set off alarm bells around the Cabinet table.

The obvious question that needed to be asked was what would happen if there is another conflict like the Falklands where our interests and those of the US arent aligned? Could those defence champions still be counted on in the same way now that they were in American hands?

The argument that the US, a country that has always acted entirely unapologetically in its own self-interest, was an unimpeachable ally never held much water then, but now it is simply no longer true.

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The world has changed dramatically in recent weeks, meaning Britain is no longer as safe as it once was.

Chemring specialises in making flares and decoys dispersed to confuse radar and incoming missiles  devices used by our own RAF aircraft.

Now  more than ever  whats left of our defence crown jewels must be protected at all costs.

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As directors Yuval Abraham, Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, Rachel Szor took the stage to accept the best documentary Oscar for their work on No Other Land, they took the opportunity  in one of the only overtly political moments of the telecast  to make a robust plea for a political solution to the war in Gaza.

We call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people, said Adra, a Palestinian journalist and activist. About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope to my daughter that she will not have to live the same life Im living now.  No Other Land reflects the harsh reality that we have been enduring for decades and still resist.

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Abraham, an Israeli journalist, spoke at length about why their film was a collaboration between Israelis and Palestinians. We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together, our voices are stronger, he said. We see each other, the destruction of Gaza and its people, which must end, the Israeli hostages, brutally taken in the crime of Oct. 7, which must be freed.

Made by an Israeli-Palestinian collective, the documentary follows a Palestinian family as the Israeli government displaces them from their home in the West Bank. In the face of the destruction that occurs and the lives lost, Adra and Abraham form an unexpected friendship.

In his speech, Abraham noted that he and Adra live unequal lives. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law and Basel is under military laws that destroy his life and he cannot control, he said. There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people.

Abraham continued that U.S. foreign policy under the administration of President Donald Trump is helping to block this path.

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Why cant you see that we are intertwined, that my people can be truly safe if basils people are truly free and safe? he said.

Since No Other Land premiered at last years Berlin Film Festival, earning top documentary jury and audience prizes, the doc has been one of the most acclaimed titles of the year, going on to play at the Toronto, Vancouver and New York film festivals.

Last February, film critic Guy Lodge wrote in his review for Variety that the filmmaking here is tight and considered, noting how while the film is undeniably timely, it underlines that the situation has been at crisis point for a long time, whether or not its been grabbing international headlines.

Despite the films critical acclaim and Oscar win, it still remains without a U.S. distributor. In January, Abraham told Variety that he took the lack of distribution as something thats completely political. Were obviously talking about the Israeli military occupation of the West Bank, and its very uglyThe conversation in the United States appears to be far less nuanced  there is much less space for this kind of criticism, even when it comes in the form of a film.

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No Other Land had a limited theatrical run in New York City starting Jan. 31 and Los Angeles starting Feb. 7.

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LOS ANGELES (The Hill)  The filmmakers behind No Other Land, which won the Oscar for best documentary, called for a different path forward to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, in their acceptance speech Sunday.

There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people, said Israeli filmmaker Yuval Abraham, in his acceptance speech.

And I have to say, as I am here, the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path, Abraham continued, knocking President Trumps approach to foreign policy.

Basel Adra, from left, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal, and Yuval Abraham accept the award for best documentary feature film for No Other Land during the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

The film is a collaboration between Israelis and Palestinians, and it follows activist Basel Adra as he documents the destruction of his hometown at the southern edge of the West Bank, which Israeli soldiers are tearing down to use as a military training zone, according to The Associated Press. Adra then befriends a Jewish Israeli journalist to help tell his story.

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We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together, our voices are stronger. We see each other, the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people, which must end, the Israeli hostages brutally taken in the crime of October 7, which must be freed, Abraham said on stage.

When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal, he continued. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and Basel is under military laws that destroy his life, and he cannot control.

Adra, on stage, said that two months ago, he became a father and said he hopes his daughter will not have to live the same life Im living now, always fearing settlers, violence, home demolitions and forcible displacements.

We call on the world to take serious actions to stop injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people, Adra added in his speech.

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The documentary, which was filmed over four years between 2019 and 2023, wrapped production just days before Hamas launched its Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, precipitating the ongoing war.

The Associated Press contributed.

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The nonprofit Mayo Clinic in Arizona says it is investing $1.9 billion to expand its Phoenix campus and that the project is expected to add 3,500 local jobs during the next decade.

The Mayo Clinic has been in Arizona for 38 years and as of 2024 was the state's 12th-largest non-government employer, with about 11,000 employees, according to The Arizona Republic's database. The Mayo Clinic's headquarters is in Rochester, Minn., and it has two other main locations in the U.S.  Arizona and Jacksonville, Fla.

The Phoenix campus of the Mayo Clinic provides care through approximately 750,000 patient appointments per year when outpatient visits, hospital visits and admissions are combined, a number that's expected to continue growing.

In addition to clinical care, the Phoenix campus is becoming a hub for companies, medical practitioners and entrepreneurs pursuing biotechnology manufacturing, research and innovation.

Its up-and-coming Discovery Oasis biotechnology corridor adjacent to the campus is set to become a home for therapeutics research that targets cancer and autoimmune diseases, medical device development, pharmaceutical drug advancement, and digital health and data analytics, among other fields.

The Mayo Clinic in Arizona got its start in Scottsdale, and its Phoenix campus hospital opened in 1998. The Scottsdale campus now consists of outpatient, research and education. The Mayo Clinic Arizona's Alix School of Medicine started on the Scottsdale campus, but in the fall relocated most of its functions to the campus in north Phoenix near Loop 101 and North 65th Street where the health system's Arizona growth spurt is occurring.

The Phoenix campus in 2018 announced a $648 million expansion that doubled its size, and at the time, it was the largest expansion in the health system's Arizona history. Officials at the time said the expansion was driven by a growing need for complex patient care, meaning caring for patients who are seriously ill and often have rare or complicated conditions.

The same need for specialized care is difficult to provide with current infrastructure, and technology is fueling the new, $1.9 billion expansion announced Monday, Mayo Clinic in Arizona CEO Dr. Richard Gray told The Arizona Republic in an interview.

Over the next 10 years, Mayo Clinic officials are hopeful they can make care more accessible to more people.

"We want to be there for the patients who need us," Gray said. "We have much more demand for Mayo Clinic care than we currently have capacity."

Most of the new Mayo jobs will be in 'patient facing' health care

The expansion announced Monday will increase clinical space on the Phoenix campus by nearly 60%, Gray said.

In terms of square feet, the expanded Phoenix facilities will be between 4 and 5 million square feet in size when completed, up from roughly 3 million square feet right now, he said. The number of hospital beds will go from the current 403 to 451, and there will be 11 new operating rooms, among other things.

Gray expects the expansion to add about 3,500 new full-time equivalent jobs over the next decade and most of them "patient facing" jobs that require direct interaction with patients, including doctors, nurses, and various types of health care technicians, Gray said.

The construction side of the expansion is expected to begin this year and be completed by 2031, though the project will continue to add new jobs for years after the physical expansion is done, he said.

"As we open up those spaces, those spaces will continue to grow into the jobs in patient care that can be impacted by those spaces. It won't all appear on Day One that the doors open," Gray said.

The expansion includes a two-story indoor promenade that will wrap around the front of the campus and connect its various buildings, which officials say is aimed to create "cohesion and convenience for patients and visitors as they move from building to building."

The construction is not expected to impede patient care, he said.

The entrance to the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix.

Out-of-state, international patients use Mayo Clinic in Arizona

About 70% of the Mayo Clinic in Arizona's patients are from the Phoenix metropolitan area, 10% come from elsewhere in Arizona and 20% come from other national and international locations, Gray said.

"What the Mayo Clinic is the most known for and where we add the most value for patients is when they have those most complex diagnoses  serious illnesses like cancer, like organ failure, like serious neurologic and cardiac diseases that need multiple specialists," Gray said.

"We are really trying to grow our capacity for those patients who many times can't get answers and can't get treatments anywhere else. ... People come from all over the world to seek these world experts in care and more importantly renowned teams that work together for patients that have multiple and complex illnesses."

While the Phoenix campus is growing, Gray said the goal is to create "care neighborhoods" that cluster services specific to diagnoses and treatment needs within a smaller footprint of familiar spaces to make treatment easier, less confusing and less time-intensive for patients and for staff, too.

"In a large health care campus like our Phoenix campus, it can start to feel large and overwhelming. We want to create care neighborhoods where patients can come and they feel a familiarity," he said.

Design, technology and innovation are all a part of the expansion  it's not solely construction, Gray emphasized.

"We all know that there are weaknesses in the system currently, and we really want to do our part to show the way forward. And a lot of that will be through leveraging data and additional insight and artificial intelligence-driven precision and proactive care that's more personalized," Gray said.

"With those AI-driven solutions and data-driven solutions for patients, we then need facilities that carry out health care in new ways when patients physically come to us. Some of these solutions can go to the patient where they are, but we need intelligent facilities that blend the best of these digital solutions with physical spaces ... Our transformation is absolutely not just about expanding space and access, it's about transforming how health care is delivered."

(This story was updated to add information.)

Republic reporter Taylor Seely contributed to this article.

Reach health care reporter Stephanie Innes at Stephanie.Innes@gannett.com or follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @stephanieinnes.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Mayo Clinic's largest-ever expansion to happen in Phoenix
In this March 6, 2018 photo, farmworker Elias Solis, of Mexicali, Mexico, picks cabbage before dawn in a field outside of Calexico, Calif. For decades, cross-border commuters have picked lettuce, carrots, broccoli, onions, cauliflower and other vegetables that make California's Imperial Valley "America's Salad Bowl" from December through March. As Trump visits the border for the first time as president on Tuesday, the harvest is a reminder of how little has changed despite heated rhetoric in Washington. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  A first annual Kitten Shower is set to take place in Sioux Falls Saturday.

The Sioux Empire TNR Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to cat welfare, is hosting the event to raise funds to support the many kittens they care for. This is a busy time of the year for cat rescues as its considered kitten season when rescues and the Sioux Falls Humane Society are overrun with kittens.

This event will feature shower games with a kitten theme, sweet treats, a raffle and more. Volunteers from Sioux Empire TNR Coalition will also be on hand to talk about volunteering, kitten fostering, and provide education on the problem of cat overpopulation in the Sioux Empire. The nonprofit hopes to make this an annual fundraiser and educational event.

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Animal Control: Stray dog on loose after biting child

The event will take place 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday in central Sioux Falls. Tickets cost $10 and can be bought online.

KELOLAND News has featured Sioux Empire TNR and the issue of feral cats in Sioux Falls.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
(NewsNation)  Multiple planes flying near Mar-a-Lago, President Donald Trumps Florida residence in Palm Beach, were intercepted by F-16 fighter jets over the weekend, the North American Aerospace Defense Command said.

On Saturday, three civilian planes violated the same temporary flight restriction, according to NORAD. The first violation was at 11:05 a.m. ET, the second at 12:10 p.m. and the third at 12:50 p.m.

All three aircraft were safely escorted out of the area by NORAD aircraft, NORAD said in a statement.

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How to check your state tax refund status

As two of the aircraft were being intercepted, NORAD said, flares were dispensed to communicate with the pilot. These may have been seen by the public, NORAD added.

Flares are employed with the highest regard for safety, burn out quickly and completely, and pose no danger to people on the ground, NORAD said.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, civilian aircraft are not allowed to operate in areas traveled to by the president or vice president. Trump, in the first couple months of his second term, has made frequent trips to Mar-a-Lago.

NORAD commander Gen. Gregory Guillot said on X that adhering to flight restrictions is essential to ensure flight safety, national security and the presidents safety as well.

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The procedures are not optional, Guillot said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WPRI)  The North Kingstown School Committee will meet Tuesday night to discuss the superintendents plan to redistribute students across the towns five elementary schools.

Some schools are over capacity, while others are under, officials said.

According to the agenda, the update will include a timeline and transportation plans.

The public part of the meeting begins at 7 p.m. at North Kingstown High School.

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EDITORS NOTE: This story corrects an on-air report that the school committee meeting would be held Monday night.

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NORTH LAWRENCE, N.Y. (WWTI)  A 32-year-old North Lawrence man is facing rape charges after an investigation of New York State Police.

On Thursday, February 27, authorities arrested Daniel Harrington for two counts of first-degree rape.

Hermon man charged with kidnapping and fleeing police

Just after 10 a.m. February 27, State Police officials were informed that past sexual assault had occurred. The investigation determined Harrington had oral and sexual intercourse with two victims less than 13 years old.

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Harrington was arrested and processed at the state police headquarters in Massena. He was arraigned in the Town of Norfolk Court and was remanded to St. Lawrence County Jail on a cash bail of $100,000.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com.
(FOX40.COM)  A man was arrested in connection to several violent crimes including shooting a gun at a random residence and assault, according to the Calaveras County Sheriffs Office.

Around 10 a.m. on Feb. 24, CCSO responded to a report of harassment via electronic communication. The victims reported that Eric Lee Hickerson Jr., 34, of Copperopolis, had sent over 200 text messages containing vulgar language and multiple threats. Fearing for their safety and their family, a temporary restraining order against Hickerson Jr. was obtained. Deputies said that despite the court order, Hickerson Jr. continued sending messages.

Northern California deputy fired after fentanyl overdose, investigation reveals

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Later that evening, around 6:40 p.m., the sheriffs office received multiple emergency calls about violent crimes happening in the Burson area. First, deputies said they responded to reports of a firearm being discharged from a vehicle in the 7000 block of Southworth Road. The shots were fired in the direction of a residence. According to CCSO, no one was injured, and the victims didnt know the suspect.

Shortly after, deputies responded to another call about an assault at a gas station in the 3000 block of Highway 12. A victim, seated inside their vehicle, was confronted by Hickerson Jr. The suspect physically assaulted the victim through the vehicles window, continuing the attack as the victim attempted to drive away, according to CCSO. After the assault, Hickerson Jr. followed the victim in his truck for a brief period before leaving the area. The second victim did not know the suspect.

Northern California deputies seize enough fentanyl to cause millions of fatal overdoses

Following the assault, CCSO said Hickerson Jr. traveled to a residence in the 5000 block of Chile Camp Road, where he attempted to contact the occupants. When they refused entry, he began vandalizing the property by throwing objects at the house. A resident reported hearing a single gunshot outside. Deputies arrived and discovered Hickerson Jr.s truck had been involved in a collision, partially blocking Chile Camp Road. They located Hickerson Jr. nearby and detained him. While in custody, he reportedly resisted deputies before being arrested.

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CCSO said a search of the scene and the suspects vehicle resulted in the discovery and seizure of three firearms. Hickerson Jr. was transported and booked into the Calaveras County Jail under suspicion of multiple felony charges, including criminal threats, vandalism, elder abuse, threatening an officer, possession of an assault weapon, carrying a loaded firearm, negligent discharge of a firearm, assault with a deadly weapon, and false imprisonment.

This case remains under investigation.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News.
MILAN  Norway has received three new F-35A aircraft, marking the delivery of 49 fighters, with the remaining three planned to be shipped before summer, the Norwegian Defense Material Agency said.

The latest fighter jets landed in the Nordic country on Feb. 27 and will operate out of rland Air Station.

In the last three months alone, nine F-35s have been delivered to Norway, with the last three of the 52 on order expected to be received during the spring, the FMA, the countrys Armed Forces procurement arm, said in a statement.

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Given the complexity inherent in the development and production of fifth-generation fighter aircraft, I am very impressed by the delivery capability of the F-35 manufacturer, Col. Tord Aslaksen, head of Norways fighter aircraft department in defense material air capabilities, said of manufacturer Lockheed Martin.

Issue experts have pondered the future of European F-35 fleets, given that the continent and Washington are at an important crossroads regarding the war in Ukraine and the fate of U.S. military support in NATO.

A recent report by the Washington-based Center for Policy and Analysis noted that while European F-35s provide nations with key airpower, they cannot solely make up for gaps in ground-based firepower and challenge the over-reliance on a single piece of equipment.

Right now, European NATO lacks the integrated air and missile defense it needs for modern high-intensity warfare, U.S. Maj. General (retired) Skip Davis, former NATO official, was quoted as saying in the report.

Estimates published by Lockheed Martin foresee that by 2035 more than 600 F-35s will be operating in Europe.
Ali Herischi, a Washington, D.C.-based human rights lawyer, has very limited contact with his dozen or so clients trapped in legal limbo in Panama. He, like the other lawyers attempting to represent the more than 100 migrants deported to the Central American country from the United States earlier this month, has largely been kept from communicating with them directly. To contact them, Herischi said he's occasionally able to reach them through the single, hidden cell phone they share but has mostly had to go through their families in Iran instead.

Their situation is untenable. They felt unsafe staying in the San Vincente migrant reception center on the outskirts of the dense Darien Gap jungle they were hauled to, so they protested and were permitted to stay on benches outside the camp, Herischi told Salon in a phone interview. That's where they've remained since Feb. 20, receiving little water and stale food as they swelter in the Panamanian heat. To make matters worse, he said, their fates are uncertain  they received no formal documentation of their removal or prevention of entry from the U.S. and have no records of entry or detention in Panama.

While his clients' experiences don't usually affect him emotionally, Herischi said the gravity of these immigrants' circumstances have weighed on him. He said he received a "heartbreaking" voice note from a member of one of the migrant families he's representing on Tuesday.

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"This one was really hard," Herischi recalled. "It said, 'Please don't let this situation affect us for the rest of our lives. It's become too much  the situation that we are [in]. I think it's going to create a scar in my son and all of us forever. It shouldn't be like that.'"

Herischi's clients comprise just a fraction of the more than 300 migrants from China, Afghanistan, India, Iran and other countries captured at and deported from the U.S.-Mexico border to "bridge countries" across Central and South America in recent weeks. The Feb. 12 deportations to Panama garnered national attention after reports that migrants were placed on a military plane, carted to the country without their knowledge in handcuffs and shackles, and transferred to and detained in a Panama City hotel by armed guards for days, fled the airwaves. Images of the migrants pleading for help through the windows of the 4-star Decapolis topped articles detailing their plight: injuries from attempts to escape, having nearly all their cellphones seized, being cut off from legal counsel and faced with the impossible choice of remaining in detention or returning home to severe persecution.

"They are devastated," Herischi said, noting that a majority of his clients had to find a way to get to Brazil in order to begin their weeks-long trek up through the Americas to reach the U.S.

"Country after country, they had to pass [through], dealing with different groups of people, different types of transportation, to walking through jungles, and they don't know Spanish when dealing with all this," he said. "Then they arrived in the U.S., they felt okay, at least they're safe and [will] be able to apply for asylum and get status, and then they [were transferred] back again to this situation, which is really harsh."

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Such is the reality of President Donald Trump's mass deportation plans, actualized by the executive orders and proclamations he signed during his first week in office to tamp down irregular crossings at the southern border. As he attempts to deliver on his most ambitious campaign promise  cracking down on immigration  the president has cut deals with Latin American countries to free up space in U.S. detention centers, enlisting them as stopovers to repatriate nationals of countries with whom the U.S. has a tenuous diplomatic relationship.

The tactic is something of a revival of a first-term Trump immigration policy that required migrants to seek asylum in these "third safe countries" before continuing to the U.S., according to Diego Chavez-Gonzalez, the senior manager for the Migration Policy Institute's Latin America and Caribbean Initiative. But the current model differs in its mandate that these transit countries instead handle migrants' deportations back to their countries of origin, which makes those who fear going back vulnerable, strips them of their rights and traps them in a "legal limbo," he said.

"Instead of having a bridge situation, what we're seeing is that, for many of them, actually this is a dead-end," Chavez-Gonzalez told Salon in a phone interview. "They cannot legally stay in the transit countries. They cannot return to their home countries, and of course, they were deported from the United States."

Complicating matters are the power differences at play between the Trump administration and the third countries he's enlisted the help of.

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Officials across Central America have rejected claims of coercion from the Trump administration to participate in his deportation plan. But Trump's threats to impose tariffs, seize control of the Panama Canal and deny visa applications to their nationalsas he did when Colombia refused to accept a plane of deporteesmake these Central American nations' participation in the scheme appear less egalitarian than their leaders suggest, Chavez-Gonzalez said.

Trump's deportation model "is in clear violation of international law and [the UN Refugee Agency] and [the International Organization for Migration], who have been strained of resources because of the cutting of foreign aid, they are being asked, without a lot of resources, to do something that is not part of their mandate," he added, warning of the risk this plan poses to the international system.

Chavez-Gonzalez said that the region should expect to see more of these deportations in the coming months  but it won't last much longer than that. Trump's aim to deliver on his campaign promises around immigration far outpaces the government's capacity to make that narrative a reality, he said.

"For now, what we are seeing is a game that is more focused on the numbers, on the hundreds," Chavez-Gonzalez added, predicting legal challenges will bring it to a swift end. "It's more about sending the message. It's more about responding to the electoral base."

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

But for the migrants detained at the San Vincente camp, that game is a nightmare. All of Herischi's clients in Panama are Iranian, ranging in age from 11 to just under 40. The lawyer also counts among his clientele of recent deportees a small family with a three-year-old in a similar circumstance who were instead removed to Costa Rica. They each fled the country after converting to Christianity from Islam, which Iran's Shariah law classifies apostasy punishable by death, and sought refuge in the U.S. to practice their newfound faith freely.

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CBP detained them shortly after they crossed the border from Tijuana, and they were transferred to an ICE detention facility in San Diego, Herischi said. They said they told the officers that they are asylum seekers, which would usually grant them the opportunity to apply for asylum under international mandates. From there, they were randomly selected to be transferred and told they would be moved to a Texas detention facility, Herischi said. Instead, they were taken by military plane directly to Panama, did not go through customs upon arrival and were immediately detained in the hotel until they were bussed to the camp. Lawyers say it is illegal to detain people in Panama without a court order for more than 24 hours.

A spokeswoman for the Department of Homeland Security previously told The New York Times that none of the migrants captured at the border and removed to Panama "asserted fear of returning to their home country at any point during processing or custody." Instead, they "were properly removed from the country."

Herischi said that the Trump administration's treatment of his clients  and other deportees facing political persecution in their home countries  flouts the nation's long-term, generous commitment to granting political and religious asylum to those who sought it. He said they have plans to file suit in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights against Panama and the U.S. next week to ensure their rights to apply for asylum, immigrate, seek legal counsel and more are restored.

"This is not right," Herischi said. "Even despite the broad policy of the immigration ban, they fail to account [for] this kind of situation, that they are real people, real lives, and they should not be the victim of political decisions and campaign promises. They are humans."
The U.S. Space Force is looking at reactivating an abandoned rocket launching site on an abandoned Pacific island stronghold to test technologies for future rocket cargo delivery missions. The site, on Johnston Atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, around 860 miles southwest of Hawaii, has a notorious history involving nuclear, chemical and biological weapons but is now earmarked for the potential construction of two landing pads. This is part of the Rocket Cargo Vanguard program, which seeks to use rockets to move military supplies from one point on Earth to another much more rapidly than is currently possible.

The confirmation of the plans for Johnston Atoll was provided in a notice of intent (NOI) published today by the Department of the Air Force (DAF), which includes the Air Force and Space Force. The NOI serves to advise the public of the pending preparation of an Environmental Assessment (EA) for the two landing pads. The assessment will evaluate the impacts of the construction and operation of the two landing pads on the atoll, which will provide for up to 10 reentry vehicle landings per year over four consecutive years. Potentially, the testing could begin as early as this year.

U.S. Air Force concept artwork shows how a cargo rocket might be used to enable rapid delivery of aircraft-size payloads for agile global logistics  in this example, for urgent humanitarian assistance and disaster response. U.S. Air Force illustration/Randy Palmer

Specifically, according to the NOI, the purpose of the planned campaign is to safely test and demonstrate the expeditious delivery of tons of materiel through space in support of ongoing research, development, test, and experimentation under the Rocket Cargo Vanguard program  which is also known as Point-to-Point Delivery (P2PD).

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Led by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Rocket Cargo Vanguard is a science and technology effort to determine the viability and utility of using large commercial rockets for Department of Defense global logistics. Sometimes under different names and terminology, the project dates back to at least 2020, at least in the public realm.

Current military modes of transportation require days to weeks of planning and logistics to provide materiel to distant locations at the time and place of need, the NOI continues. The Proposed Action would explore the military utility of this technology to address rapid global mobility challenges by leveraging commercial technology to mature critical capabilities.

The same document states that Johnston Atoll was selected for possible use in the Rocket Cargo Vanguard program since the location must be remote, securable, U.S. Government-controlled, capable of air or maritime transport of personnel and materiel and support the disposition and removal of reentry vehicles via barged transport.

Other locations that were considered and then rejected included Kwajalein Atoll, Midway Island, and Wake Island. All of these are U.S. Pacific territories, with Kwajalein already being established as a highly important test facility.

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Upon further examination, the DAF concluded that Johnston Atoll is the only location that meets all operational requirements over the duration of the four-year reentry and landing test program.

A U.S. Air Force aerial view of Johnston Atoll, dating from 1990. U.S. Air Force Photo SSgt. Val Gempis SSGT Val Gempis

Johnston Atoll, which is an unincorporated U.S. territory surrounded by ocean, was identified as the safest and most viable location. This is likely also a reference to the potential impact of climate change and severe weather events. Notably, Kwajalein is still recovering from the effects of weather-driven waves that caused significant damage across the island early in 2024.

The environmental assessment will now consider the impact of the proposed testing on Johnston Atoll, which is now designated as a National Wildlife Refuge  a classification brings its own set of criteria in terms of the impact on local biodiversity  and part of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine National Monument.

Composite satellite image of Johnston Atoll, from 2009. NASA

At the same time, Johnston Atoll has a long and highly controversial history of U.S. military activities, including being used as a naval refueling depot, an air base, a test site for nuclear and biological weapons, as well as for rockets and missiles, and a site for the storage and disposal of chemical weapons. In one highly notable event, the island hosted the Starfish Prime high-altitude nuclear test in July 1962, which was the largest nuclear test conducted in outer space. Many other nuclear tests occurred at and high above the atoll from 1958 to 1975.

The base has been effectively abandoned by the U.S. military since 2003, when the Army finally completed its work on decommissioning and dismantling chemical weapons on the island, as well as the related environmental cleanup. A large 9,000-foot closed runway and other abandoned infrastructure are still present on the contaminated island that has no human occupants. The desolate outpost, located deep in the Pacific, has drawn some attention in recent years as there has been suggestions that it would be reactivated as part of sweeping upgrade projects across airfields in the Pacific as contingency preparation for a war with China.

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An official video marking the final elimination of the chemical weapons stockpile at Johnston Atoll in November 2000. The Johnston Atoll Chemical Agent Disposal System (JACADS) destroyed a total of 412,798 chemical weapons:

It was initially revealed in 2020 that the U.S. military was working with SpaceX, alongside other industry partners, on plans for cargo delivery by rocket. At that time, U.S. Army Gen. Stephen R. Lyons, previously commander of U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), said that the Pentagon was aiming to develop technology that would allow the cargo-weight equivalent of a C-17 Globemaster III (roughly 85.5 tons) to be delivered anywhere in the world within an hour.

A slide from U.S. Army Gen. Stephen R. Lyons virtual presentation in 2020. TRANSCOM

By 2021, the Air Forces budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2022 requested additional funding for what was then being termed as the Rocket Cargo program. At this point, the Pentagons stated plans included transporting payloads of up to 100 tons, including cargo and potentially personnel, via orbital or suborbital profiles to forward locations. The program was assigned Vanguard status also in 2021, the implications of which we discussed at the time.

By early 2022, the AFRL had awarded SpaceX a five-year, $102 million contract to collect flight data from its Starship program in order to demonstrate technologies for point-to-point cargo and humanitarian aid transportation.

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The complete Starship reusable launch vehicle system, as TWZ has highlighted in the past, comprises a super-heavy rocket booster and spacecraft.

So far, however, Starship test efforts have yielded mixed results.

In April of 2023, the inaugural Starship flight test resulted in the super-heavy rocket exploding just minutes after launching,

In the latest flight test, the seventh, which took place in January of this year, Starship ended with the vehicle exploding after a propellant leak prompted the autonomous flight safety system to self-destruct it.

SpaceX Starship integrated flight test 2 at the Starbase facility along the south Texas coast on Nov. 18, 2023. SpaceX via X/Twitter

The Air Force has said it expects a full demonstration of the rocket cargo concept by 2026. This depends on successful flight testing of Starship before that point, not to mention overcoming other significant technical obstacles.

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Ultimately, however, the Pentagon is set on at least investigating the potential of rockets for rapidly delivering cargo across significant distances.

In particular, such a capability would appear to have particular relevance in the context of future contingencies in the Indo-Pacific theater. With a growing expectation that this region will see a future high-end conflict involving U.S. forces, perhaps even before 2026, being able to call upon rockets to quickly bring critical supplies to the area would be of huge value  provided, once again, that the technology can be mastered.

The NOI doesnt specify what rockets will be used in the planned Rocket Cargo Vanguard tests, although there are strong indications that the Space Force is eyeing SpaceXs Starship for future rocket cargo delivery missions.

We are thinking about how we might use it, Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, commander of Space Systems Command, said last November in reference to Starship. We think the first, most logical, given the payload volume  would be some type of rocket cargo delivery mechanism. [We are] absolutely interested in the potential military utility and definitely following their progress.

U.S. Space Force Lt. Gen. Philip Garrant, Space Systems Command commander, and U.S. Space Force Col. Mark Shoemaker, Space Launch Delta 30 commander, at Vandenberg Space Force Base, California, March 20, 2024. U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Kadielle Shaw

In early 2024, it emerged that the Pentagon had approached SpaceX with a view to purchasing Starship launch vehicle systems, specifically for sensitive, high-risk missions.

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Since Rocket Cargo Vanguard seeks to rapidly deliver cargo, and possibly personnel, anywhere on Earth that can support a landing, the Starship is an obvious candidate for the mission. Its the largest and most powerful rocket ever flown, according to the company, and is reportedly capable of carrying up to 150 metric tons while being fully reusable. At the same time, its capable of landing vertically, making it suitable for a much wider range of landing sites.

It remains to be seen whether Johnston Atoll will be resurrected as a test site for the Rocket Cargo Vanguard program, although the results of the environmental assessment are due next month. Potentially, approving the island for the program could pave the way for it becoming a site for other space vehicle landings beyond Rocket Cargo. Currently, there are few, if any, locations in the continental United States that can support this. If it does become part of an expanding reusable space infrastructure, that will put additional emphasis on Johnston Atoll in general, too.

Whatever happens, todays announcement reinforces the fact that the U.S. military remains committed to at least exploring the possibility of fast-track cargo supply via space launch rockets in the future.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
DENVER (KDVR)  A single-engine plane landed in a field in Bennett on Sunday, according to the Adams County Sheriffs Office, almost within 24 hours of when another plane crashed in Elbert County.

On Saturday, the National Transportation Safety Board told FOX31 it was sending an investigator from Texas to Matheson, which is in rural Elbert County, after a two-seater, kit plane reportedly crashed west of Limon.

Polis, Boebert call for free speech after letter threatens family with MAGA flag in front yard

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FOX31 has reached out to the Elbert County Sheriffs Office for additional information multiple times over the weekend and heard from Elbert County Undersheriff Dave Fisher Sunday evening that the pilot had died in the crash.

The FAA told FOX31 that only the pilot was on-board the Elbert County plane when it crashed in a field. The pilot has not yet been identified. The undersheriff also told FOX31 that the crash occurred near the intersection of County Road 169 and County Road 66, which appears to be mainly farmland.

A FOX31 photojournalist went to the scene near Bennett on Sunday and said the plane was deep inside private farmland near the 5200 block of Schumaker Road, which is in the vicinity of the Colorado Air and Space Port.

1 dead after truck loses control on icy Winter Park road, hits 2 other vehicles

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First responders told FOX31s photojournalist that the pilot walked out of the crash area to where the farm road ended.

The Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue District shared photos of the plane where it landed in the field. (Courtesy the Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue) Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue responded to a plane that landed in a field on Sunday, March 2, 2025. (KDVR) Bennett-Watkins Fire Rescue responded to a plane that landed in a field on Sunday, March 2, 2025. (KDVR)

Battalion Chief Derek Nystrom told FOX31 that the plane took off from the Colorado Air and Space Port at about 10:30 a.m. and noticed an oil leak fairly quickly after takeoff.

Nystrom said the pilot attempted to turn back, but the engine stalled so he made an emergency landing in a field. The pilot was uninjured.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
(Bloomberg) -- The United Nations nuclear watchdog called on the US and Iran to begin talks, suggesting that US President Donald Trump holds the next move in trying to defuse tensions with the Islamic Republic over its atomic activities.

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The International Atomic Energy Agency is holding high level talks with the White House and would like to see a more systemic approach to Iran. Agency monitors warned last week that the Persian Gulfs inventory of uranium enriched just below weapons grade swelled more than half since Trump won Novembers presidential election.

Read: Irans Uranium Stock Surged Since Trumps Return to Office

All of this is in a certain sense influenced by the substantive consideration of the American administration, Grossi said Monday at a press conference in Vienna. I have been in touch with them. There are considerations at the highest levels.

While Trump said last month hes open to a new Iran agreement, hes also pledged to reinvigorate sanctions aimed at strangling the countrys oil exports. Tehrans government has rejected talks as long as the US maintains its maximum-pressure campaign against the Iranian economy.

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That leaves the IAEAs Grossi, 64, acting as the go-between communicating with the two long-time foes. The Argentine diplomat visited Tehran in November and has remained in frequent contact Irans Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

IAEA monitors are preparing a special report detailing Iranian infractions in recent years. The country has yet to provide technically credible explanations over the presence of uranium particles detected at undeclared locations.

What we need is an engagement that is substantial, tangible and concrete, Grossi said, adding that he could again visit Tehran soon. We have to stop talking about process and start getting some answers.

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The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Central Texas all day Tuesday as inclement weather is expected to elevate wildfire risk.

The arrival of a Pacific front early Tuesday will bring wind gusts up to 45 miles per hour and drive down humidity levels, creating ideal conditions for a blaze to spark and spread in the drought-stricken region, according to the weather service's Austin/San Antonio office.

"Vegetation fuels over the region are already very dry, and will allow for the rapid and extreme fire spread during this period of windy and dry weather," Monte Oaks said in a forecast update on Monday afternoon. "The strength of the winds and gusts when combined with the dry air, will be at levels not seen in this area in several years."

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A fire danger forecast map released Monday by the Texas A&M Forest Service shows the majority of the state, including Austin, will be in "extreme" danger of wildfires on Tuesday, the most severe ranking.

Most of Central Texas was in a drought as of Feb. 25, according to the latest information from the U.S. Drought Monitor. For more than 80% of Travis County, the drought is considered extreme.

Most of the state, including Austin, is in "extreme" danger of wildfires on Tuesday, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service

Travis County has not enacted a burn ban because that requires approval from Commissioners Court, which is not meeting this week, said county spokesman Hector Nieto. Instead, the county is asking residents to hold off on burning anything until after Tuesday. Nieto said the fire marshal will consider asking for a burn ban at the next commissioners court meeting on March 11, if it is warranted.

The fire risk will be about the same across all South and Central Texas counties, according to the NWS office.

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On Monday, Gov. Greg Abbott instructed the state's Division of Emergency Management to begin preparing for the extreme weather conditions, according to a news release that focused especially on the threat to the western, northern and eastern parts of the state.

"As the state faces increased wildfire risks in West Texas and potential severe storms in North and East Texas, Texas stands ready to swiftly deploy additional emergency response resources to communities that may be impacted, Abbott said in the release.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: National Weather Service issues red flag warning for Central Texas
MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas (KETK)  The Mount Pleasant Economic Development Corporation recently announced that NXG Truck Bodies is bringing 95 new jobs to the area with their new manufacturing plant.

LUFTEX gearbox repair facility gets $3.5 million grant for new Lufkin office building

The new 120,000-square-foot manufacturing space will bring a $20 million investment to Mount Pleasant, according to the Mount Pleasant Economic Development Corporation (MPEDC).

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Were thrilled to support this major development and look forward to seeing its impact on our community, MPEDC said.

NXG Truck Bodies, photo courtesy of MPEDC. NXG Truck Bodies, photo courtesy of MPEDC. NXG Truck Bodies, photo courtesy of MPEDC. NXG Truck Bodies, photo courtesy of MPEDC. NXG Truck Bodies, photo courtesy of MPEDC.

The NXG Truck Bodies plant is located on County Road 3210 just off of Highway 30 to the northeast of Mount Pleasant. Theyre currently preparing the plant to start work on what NXG says will be the next generation of truck bodies.

At NXG Truck Bodies, were redefining the truck body industry. Innovation drives everything we do. From precision engineering to advanced powder coating, we rethink every detail to build truck bodies that last longer, work harder, and look better doing it. NXG Truck Bodies

MPEDC said NXG Truck Bodies is currently hiring a production supervisor and a maintenance supervisor. Anyone interested in working at NXG Truck Bodies can apply in person at 2305 County Road 3210 or online.

To keep track of the plants progress visit NXG Truck Bodies on Facebook or on their website.

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A liberal City Council member known for anti-Israel remarks funneled more than $149,000 of taxpayer money to various Arab immigrant groups tied to her husband, The Post has learned.

Brooklyn Councilwoman Shahana Hanif (D-39) used her discretionary funding to pay various nonprofits where her husband is involved, including Arab American Association of New York, The Arab American Family Support Center and the New York Immigration Coalition.

And the pro-Palestinian lawmaker increased or decreased the amount she gave away to several groups depending on her husbands involvement, according to public records.

Shahana Hanif (D-39) has been allocating funds to organizations where her husband is involved. William Farrington

Hanifs husband, Abdullah Younus, joined the board of the Arab American Family Support center in 2024, when she donated $35,000 dollars to the group  a $15,000 increase from years prior. In the 2025 fiscal year, she upped the ante again  giving $50,000.

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In 2022, Hanif donated to the Arab American Association while her then-boyfriend Younus was serving on the board, but dropped her funding when he left to join the Family Support Center.

Neither Hanif nor the Arab American Family Support Center disclosed any conflicts of interest to the New York City Council, according to documents reviewed by The Post.

Christine Doyle, 56, a retired attorney who lives in Hanifs district discovered the councilwomans suspicious spending patterns after she became frustrated with the council members attitude toward her own community members.

Hanifs husband, Abdullah Younus, joined the board of the Arab American Family Support Center in 2024 Instagram/@shahanafrombk

One of Hanifs constituents claims shes offended everyone in her district. Instagram

I dont think theres a group of constituents she hasnt offended, said Doyle.

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She was completely inaccessible with no physical office for over a year  and then when her office opened she was outright rude to constituents, she said.

Doyle clarifies she doesnt have an issue with the mission of the organizations receiving the funds, but the seemingly shady nature of the transactions.

Its like now were married, this organization is going to get 50,000 dollars, Doyle said.

In 2023, Hanif was arrested at a Ceasefire now rally for Gaza. @ShahanaFromBK / X

You dont do that  and if you do, you tell people youre doing it. I liked her better when she was single in Gowanus with a cat, she said.

Hanif has a history of controversy with her own constituents, as she represents neighborhoods with high Jewish populations including Park Slope and Kensington.

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In 2023, she was arrested at a Ceasefire now rally for Gaza where protesters chanted anti-Israel slogans and she was one of only two council members to vote against instituting an End Jewish Hatred Day in New York.

Hanif said the claims were false, and frankly desperate though she didnt contest the publicly available information.

Before every budget vote, Ive consulted directly with the Office of the General Counsel to ensure full compliance with disclosure requirements, she said in a statement.

Organizations like the New York Immigration Coalition, Arab American Association of New York, and the Arab-American Family Support Center provide critical services to my district while standing up against Eric Adams open collaboration with Donald Trump, she went on. Clearly, some have a problem with that, but Im proud to stand by this work.
OGDENSBURG, N.Y. (WWTI)  A 34-year-old Ogdensburg man is facing child pornography charges after being arrested by New York State Police.

On Friday, February 28, he New York State Police Troop B Computer Crime Unit arrested Lee Griffith on one count each of promotion of a sexual performance by a child and possession of a sexual performance by a child.

DOCCS will terminate health insurance for AWOL correction officers

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The investigation was started by two social media platforms reporting to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The investigation alleged that child exploitation material had been sent through the reporting platforms in September and October 2024.

Griffith was arraigned in the City of Ogdensburg Court and was released. He is to reappear in the City of Ogdensburg Court on Tuesday, March 25.

The investigation is still ongoing according to authorities.

The Troop B Computer Crime Unit was assisted by the Ogdensburg Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com.
Martin OMalley, the former commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA), said Monday the recent cuts made by tech billionaire Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) at the agency could result in the collapse of the Social Security system within the next 30 to 90 days.

OMalley, a Democrat who also served as Maryland governor from 2007-15, told CNBC the recent DOGE initiatives may jeopardize monthly benefit payments for over 72.5 million Americans.

He warned the current administrations attempts to reduce the workforce will lead to the departure of vital staff and threaten the agencys fundamental operations.

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Ultimately, youre going to see the system collapse and an interruption of benefits, he said. I believe you will see that within the next 30 to 90 days.

Warning of these interruptions, OMalley said, people should start saving now.

OMalley held the position of Social Security commissioner from December 2023 to November 2024 under the Biden administration.

More than 73 million individuals, including 56 million elderly people, depend on the agency for their monthly benefit payments. Delayed or missed payments could create difficulties for recipients.

Since its formation, DOGE has aimed to reduce expenditures within federal government agencies. These budget cuts have resulted in significant leadership changes, including the recent resignation of acting SSA Commissioner Michelle King, who reportedly stepped down due to a conflict regarding DOGEs access to confidential information.

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Last week, the SSA notified employees of significant workforce reductions on the way as it prepares for what it has called an agency-wide organizational restructuring amid reports that thousands of workers could be let go.

The agency said offices that perform functions that arent mandated by statute may be prioritized for reduction-in-force actions that could include abolishment of organizations and positions, directed reassignments, and reductions in staffing.

Acting Social Security Commissioner Leland Dudek recently announced the agency will implement a substantial reorganization involving considerable workforce cuts, providing longer-serving employees the chance to opt for buyouts and early retirement programs.

The Hill reached out to the SSA for comment.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A raid on a bus in Bangladesh revealed just how deep the freshwater turtle trade goes.

Last December, Bangladeshi wildlife inspectors found two crates of turtles stowed away in a bus luggage compartment thanks to an anonymous tip, according to Mongabay.

The bus driver, Siddikul Islam, told Mongabay, "Every day, similar consignments are transported along this route."

What's happening?

The bus was just the start of the story. That same month, Bangladesh's Forest Department carried out several raids on suspected smuggling locations, aided by locals who tipped off authorities.

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Most notably, they discovered over 1,000 live turtles in a storage warehouse. The turtles all belonged to three species protected under Bangladeshi law: the Indian roofed turtle, the Indian eyed turtle, and the Indian flapshell turtle.

According to Mongabay, turtle trading was banned in the country in 1998, though that hasn't stopped smugglers. Experts suspect that the turtles are being used for meat and/or turned into trinkets.

This, combined with habitat loss, has put the turtles in a precarious position. Sanaullah Patwary, director of the Forest Department's Wildlife Crime Control Unit, told Mongabay, "We need support from civic groups to stop turtle smuggling. Otherwise, these species will become extinct."

Why do these turtles matter?

These freshwater turtles are a vital part of their ecosystems. According to Re: Wild, "Tortoises and freshwater turtles are important seed and spore dispersers for many plants, trees and fungi." Without them, the ecosystem becomes unbalanced, which threatens other species in turn.

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This may sound like it has nothing to do with humans, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The World Wildlife Fund states that "environmental goods and services" (like medicine, food, fresh water, fuel, etc.) are worth over $30 trillion.

When ecosystems collapse, humans' access to clean, healthy food and water becomes more and more limited. Though the turtles are just one piece of the puzzle, every creature plays an irreplaceable part on Earth.

What's being done about it?

All across the world, people are doing what they can to keep endangered species and their ecosystems alive. Bangladeshi authorities, committed to conservation, are continuing to crack down on turtle smugglers.

In California, the bighorn sheep population recently stabilized. Though only time will tell if the species can fully bounce back, conservationists report that this is a good sign.

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And in Tristan da Cunha, a South Atlantic archipelago, the future of a yellow finch called the Wilkins' bunting is looking bright thanks to creative conservation methods.

Relatively small efforts like planting a native lawn or reducing your everyday plastic usage can help your local ecosystem and keep endangered and vulnerable species  like Bangladesh's freshwater turtles  alive and well.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Stock photo via Getty Images.

Parents from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Oklahoma used words like brilliant, wonderful, hilarious and beautiful to describe their kids.

Its those traits the moms and dads will do anything to preserve, even as they worry about the future education of their children, who have diagnoses such as autism and Down syndrome.

The parents, and special education teachers who joined them on a call with the Innovation Ohio Education Fund, are advocating for their children amid threats by the Trump administration to severely cut or dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

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Without the Department of Educations oversight, parents and educators say the therapies their children so desperately need, along with the progress theyve already made under individualized education plans (IEPs), the accommodations in the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the 1973 federal Rehabilitation Act could be hindered or even stopped.

Without IDEAs legal shields, individual education programs, IEPs, could become mere suggestions rather than legally binding commitments, said Jack Catalano, a special education teacher in New York City.

Before early intervention, Ohioan Madison Headleys three-year-old daughter didnt communicate or socialize, even hiding under a table at her babysitters house to avoid other children. Speech therapy wasnt financially feasible for Headley, so she worried about her daughters development.

After receiving the help of early intervention specialists for autism and starting an IEP at her preschool, Headleys daughter has found ways to communicate, and is now open and social, with a love for hugs and cuddles.

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Without programs like early intervention or preschool IEPs, she would have no access to the therapy services she needs, Headley said. We would have no idea about things like sensory needs and how to tend to them.

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Claudia Casas sits on both sides of the room when it comes to special education, as a special ed teacher and mom of an autistic daughter in Arizona. For her, watching the threat to funding means she might not be able to give her students programming and therapy, along with cutting the help her daughter needs to thrive.

As a parent, I am able to advocate for my daughter and make sure that her IEP is being implemented as it should be, Casas said. That is her lifeline. (As a teacher) Im afraid that my team will not be highly qualified and I will have to provide the minimum support for my students, and thats the same support that my daughter would be receiving.

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For Pennsylvania resident Melissa Cypher, ensuring her two boys have what they need has meant years of advocacy, even with the current system. But with her oldest son now attending a school specializing in autism supports, she sees even more the power that comes with valuing all students and having the resources to help them.

Moving responsibilities to other agencies  would reduce our access to the support that we so desperately need, Cypher said.

The parents and educators of special education students expressed concern about comments made by Linda McMahon, President Donald Trumps nominee for Secretary of the Department of Education, in which she suggested that special education funding should be under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

That move would be detrimental not only because of the change in the way education is funded, the parents said, but also because the federal Department of Health and Human Services is now headed by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who has publicly spouted debunked claims about autism and vaccines, something scientific experts say have no connection.

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Wisconsin mom Amanda Sherman fears a focus on inclusion and classroom success will shift to a focus on medical interventions if the HHS takes over special education oversight, and without proper federal oversight, special education could become a patchwork of unreliable services that would hinder her autistic son, who is thriving under an IEP.

His IEP has been a game-changer, providing the structure and support he needs to survive in an environment that wasnt necessarily built for him, Sherman said.

She plans to be on the front lines for her son as long as she feels IEPs, the Department of Education, or the Individuals with Disabilities Act are under threat.

The Department of Education exists to make sure that protections like IDEA arent just words on a page, that they are enforced, funded and followed, Sherman said.

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Watching other funding cuts proposed by the Trump administration in the name of efficiency would come at a cost Oklahoman Rhys Gay cant accept as the dad of three children, including one with Down syndrome.

From my experience as a father and a father of someone with special needs, supporting children, especially children with disabilities is anything but efficient, Gay said. It takes thoughtful investment, patience and a deep commitment for their well being.

Cuts to the Department of Education or special education are not about streamlining bureaucracy, Gay added, it is about real kids, real families, real consequences.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A man wanted for a shooting last summer was arrested over the weekend.

Jaquan Lindsey was booked into the Mahoning County Jail on a charge of felonious assault, a second-degree felony.

Lindsey is wanted for a July 27 shooting where a man was found shot in the leg following an argument inside a home on West Myrtle Avenue.

Jail records show he was arrested Saturday by members of the Ohio State Highway Patrol following a traffic stop.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
As Muslims around the world mark the month of Ramadan, some cadets at the Air Force Academy may need to push through rigorous physical training without food or water or forgo a few days of the holy fast.

In recent years, Muslim cadets have been excused from physical training to allow them to participate in Ramadan, said a cadet, who spoke to The Gazette on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisal.

The cadet said he planned to fast, forgoing food and water from sun-up to sundown, during the physical training event following the academys decision.

I would rather pass out than not participate, he said of the importance of Ramadan. The holy month started Friday evening and lasts through March 29. It follows the lunar calendar and does not have set dates.

The academy did not respond to a Gazette request for comment on this issue.

The academys decision marks the first denial of a Ramadan accommodation in the last few years, the cadet said, while at the same time the school changed a major spring training event.

Previously, the academy held a three-day training exercise for freshmen that culminated in the school and older cadets recognizing them as full members of the cadet wing. The training is now required for all cadets.

The academy declined to excuse Muslim cadets from participating in the physical portion of the training, the cadet said. Muslim cadets had planned to participate in all the other aspects of the training event, such as land navigation, demonstrating their knowledge in casualty care and the laws of war, he said.

The Muslim chaplain at the academy requested an exemption from the physical portion for the Muslim cadets right before winter break and it was denied in early February, the cadet said.

The Muslim chaplain recommended cadets forgo fasting during the four days of training, upsetting cadets during the service, the cadet said. The Friday morning services consistently draw between 25 and 30 cadets. The cadet believes there are about 50 Muslims at the academy, including those attending the prep school.

The academy said the request was denied because such a waiver likely couldnt be accommodated in a deployed environment, the cadet said.

The Military Religious Freedom Foundation raised concerns about the academys decision, with Colorado Springs advisory board member Marty France, a former Air Force brigadier general, publishing an open letter to the vice superintendent.

France pointed out in his letter that service members can request religious accommodations under military policy and a reasonable compromise is possible in this case, but it was not pursued.

There was no negotiation, no discussion of other alternatives  just a directive to forgo your religious commitment and get over it. I dont think anyone in Colorado Springs thinks that a similarly stark, black-and-white choice would be the only option if the conflict involved Christian cadets. I dont, he said.

In the past, the academy has changed some of its positions after hearing from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation.

The cadet pointed out in the past academy allowed Christian cadets to extend their spring break to celebrate Easter with their families.

Why cant we get an accommodation to miss out on this portion of the training? he said.

Former Air Force Judge Advocate Davis Younts said the requests for religious accommodation should receive an individualized review, and a blanket denial can be a violation of federal law and the U.S. Constitution.

The Religious Freedom Restoration Act prohibits the government from substantially burdening a persons exercise of religion without a compelling government reason.

So the military could have a justifiable reason to deny accommodation during Ramadan, Younts said. If the service member is attending basic training and wont receive the training at any other time, that could be valid reason, he said.

In another example, Younts pointed out that service members can apply for a religious exemption to wear a beard, but could be asked to shave if it, if they had to deploy to an area where they could potentially have to wear a gas mask and the beard would interfere.

He emphasized decisions should be specific to the situation and the government has a responsibility to try to accommodate religious beliefs, under the law.

We should be trying to find a Yes, said Younts, who is now a military defense attorney. He is not affiliated with the Military Religious Freedom Foundation.

He said he believes the militarys religious accommodation process broke during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the government issued blanket denials for religious exemptions, instead of looking at an individuals working conditions.

Col. Khallid M. Shabazz, command chaplain at U.S. Army Pacific, advised those participating in Ramadan in a social media post that, if they are participating in mandatory intense field training, to make up the days when they cannot fast.

There are some allowances the Muslim soldier can take, he said.

Service members could also ask commanders for alternate physical training times, to train after dark, when they can properly hydrate, he said.

Shabazz also emphasized the importance of participating in the holy month and practicing self restraint.

It is about understanding the hardships that others go through, he said.

Contact the writer at mary.shinn@gazette.com or 719-429-9264.
On the campus of The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for the Ohio Capital Journal. Republish photo only with original story.)

Ohio State University is closing their Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the Office of Student Lifes Center for Belonging and Social Change.

Ohio State President Ted Carter announced the changes during Thursdays University Senate meeting. Friday is the deadline for schools to comply with the U.S. Department of Educations Dear Colleague letter that threatened to rescind federal funds for schools that use race-conscious practices in admissions, programming, training, hiring, scholarships, and other aspects of student life.

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The federal government has signaled its intent to enforce guidance invalidating the use of race in a broad range of educational activities, including by withdrawing federal dollars that are so important to our student, academic and operational success, Carter said in a university statement. The Attorney General of Ohio  our statutory counsel  has advised us that his office concurs with the federal governments position regarding the use of race in educational activities.

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Some of the services offered by the offices will transition between the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office of Student Life.

We are announcing initial changes in order to maintain programs that support all students and remove barriers to their success, Carter said. Our goal is to ensure that Ohio State continues to be a place where all are welcomed and treated with respect, while also following the letter and spirit of the laws and regulations that govern us.

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Sixteen professional staff positions will be eliminated and student employees affected by these closures will be offered other jobs at the university, university spokesperson Ben Johnson said.

No employee will lose their job for at least 60 days, and we will follow our standard practice of working with individuals to find other opportunities at Ohio State where possible, Johnson said in an email.

Ohio State University students made signs to protest closing the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the Office of Student Lifes Center for Belonging and Social Change at the Hale Black Cultural Center on Feb. 28, 2025. (Photo provided by the Ohio Student Association).

Carter acknowledged both offices have done important work for Ohio State over the years. Ohio States Office of Diversity and Inclusion was founded in 1970.

I know these decisions will be disappointing for many in our community, particularly as we navigate an already uncertain and challenging period, Carter said in a statement. We may not know all the answers, but I have heard your concerns, I understand the varied emotions many on our campus are feeling.

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Scholarships administered through the Office of Academic Affairs, such as the Morrill Scholarship Program and the Young Scholars Program, will continue. However, their eligibility criteria could be modified, according to the university.

These changes will not reduce current student scholarships, financial aid or student employment, Carter said. Every current student who has earned an award will retain their scholarship.

The Office of Institutional Equity will be renamed the Office of Civil Rights Compliance to more accurately reflect its work and report to the Office of University Compliance and Integrity, the university said.

The Office of Civil Rights Compliance will continue to serve as a university-wide resource for receiving, investigating and resolving all reports of discrimination, harassment and sexual misconduct, the university said.

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The Ohio Student Association was disappointed with Ohio States actions.

It is incredibly disheartening to see that Ohios public universities refuse to stand up for their students, OSA said in a statement. Students suffer when our universities cower to the threat of extremist policies.

Follow Capital Journal Reporter Megan Henry on Bluesky.

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President Trump called on oil pricers to cut prices - Alexander Manzyuk/Reuters

Oil prices have tumbled after Opec+ agreed to boost output under pressure from Donald Trump.

Brent crude dropped as much as 2.8pc on Monday to $71.17 a barrel after the oil cartel, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, unexpectedly said it would increase production from April, initially by 138,000 barrels a day.

A plan to increase output had been delayed by more than two years but Opec+ said it would now stage increases in output, hitting an extra 2.2m barrels a day by 2026.

In a statement the group said: This gradual increase may be paused or reversed subject to market conditions, adding: This flexibility will allow the group to continue to support oil market stability..

It comes weeks after President Trump said he was surprised the oil cartel had not cut prices. Last month, he used a speech to the World Economic Forum to urge Saudi Arabia and other members to bring down the cost of oil, linking it to the war in Ukraine.

He said: Right now the price is high enough that that war will continue. You gotta bring down the oil price. That will end that war. You could end that war.

The agreement of Opec+ also comes after Mr Trump showed a more favourable poise towards Russia, a key member of the broader coalition. The President has largely sided with Moscows narrative about the causes and conduct of the war in Ukraine and pressured Kyiv to end the war on terms favourable to the Kremlin.

Mr Trump has vowed to ramp up the USs oil and gas production to make the US a manufacturing nation once again.

He has promised to exploit Americas oil reserves, boasting that the US has the largest amount of oil and gas of any country on earth and we are going to use it. Well use it. We will bring prices down, fill our strategic reserves up again right to the top, and export American energy all over the world.

However, economists have suggested that Mr Trumps policies on oil are contradictory, with lower oil prices undermining Mr Trumps attempt to encourage production at home.

David Oxley, at Capital Economics, has said: Lower oil prices will certainly not incentivise US oil producers to drill, baby, drill  particularly in high-cost Alaska.

While Mondays price drop was sharp, it takes oil back only to where it was trading in December. As a result, it is unlikely to lead to significant declines in petrol prices at the pump.
I love Oklahoma. I love raising my family here and operating our family business where my father made the conscious decision over 20 years ago to locate our headquarters. Today, with nearly 1,600 employees around the globe, I am finding it harder and harder to convince employees at all levels that this is a place to build a family and advance a career.

I travel extensively meeting with our employees and our customers. Often, I am asked the question, Why Oklahoma? Lately, its getting harder to defend the state I know and love. The people in Oklahoma make it an easy sell to some; the price of owning a home seems intriguing to the outsiders coming in; the cost of living remains attractive; and the Oklahoma standard I have grown to love still exists in the sales pitch.

However, how do I sell our education system to those with families? Simply put, we have turned our back on public education in our state. We have allowed some to drive policy and divisiveness into forcing good and talented people to walk away from public education. Some are leaving due to the feeling they will be publicly blasted for their perceived views or teaching style and because of a lack of support from the top down. Many potential employees turn us down, solely over education or the lack thereof.

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While I can appreciate some of the moves to provide choice, I would be remiss if I didnt say it was on the backs of the public school system that ranks 49th in the country. Why on earth are we continuing to allow a small fraction to destroy a legitimate chance of fixing a broken system?

Opinion: Proposed Medicaid cuts would be devastating to Oklahoma's most vulnerable

My parents, myself and my siblings are all products of the public school system. My sister is a recognized and decorated public school teacher, who loves her job and cares about her students. I know many teachers in the system are still the same. But for how long?

We are missing it here in Oklahoma. We are missing the opportunities to compete on a national and global scale to attract talent to our state. Several initiatives, some of which we support with time and dollars and are in conjunction with higher education institutions, are actively in work. However, its simply not enough.

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We must commit to fixing our education system at all levels or we will never be able to attract the right amount of talent to sustain jobs needed to move forward. This is a fact, not an opinion. The jobs exist in our country. Companies are looking to cut costs, so why not find a way to attract them to Oklahoma and keep them here?

Opinion: Oklahoma wrongly imprisoned Glynn Simmons for 48 years. What should be done?

The late Gene Rainbolt, a close friend and mentor to my father, said in his own obituary regarding opportunities for our children: So very much remains to be accomplished with an enormous gap between actual and possible. I couldnt agree more.

Brian Busey

Brian Busey is chief executive officer of Delaware Resource Group of Oklahoma.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma schools drive potential employees away from us | Opinion
In a letter criticizing Oklahoma's governor and state superintendent, Attorney General Gentner Drummond wrote Monday that he cannot give a legal opinion on federal law. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  Calling the inquiry a manufactured political drama, Oklahomas attorney general declined state Superintendent Ryan Walters request for a legal opinion over whether a presidential order blocks federal education funds from benefiting undocumented students.

Walters had asked the attorney general whether any Oklahoma school programs are affected by President Donald Trumps Feb. 19 executive order blocking taxpayer-funded benefits from supporting undocumented immigrants. He also asked how his administration at the Oklahoma State Department of Education should comply with Trumps order if any school programs are affected.

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Gov. Kevin Stitt similarly has accused Walters of causing political drama. Although Attorney General Gentner Drummond borrowed the governors phrasing, he also took aim at Stitt in his response letter to Walters.

I am very thankful for President Trumps leadership on this critical issue, and I am very disappointed in Governor Stitts failures that have cost Oklahoma taxpayers billions and put our families at risk, Drummond wrote. (The executive order) should be a model for Oklahoma and every state to ensure their services are delivered only to those legally eligible to receive them.

Drummond criticized the governors support for resettling 1,800 Afghan refugees, whom the attorney general accused of being poorly vetted, in the state and Stitts collaboration with the government of Mexico to establish a Mexican consulate in Oklahoma City, which Drummond said serves undocumented immigrants as well as lawful residents.

Gov. Kevin Stitt has supported President Donald Trumps border policies but opposed a rule from state Superintendent Ryan Walters that could impact undocumented students. (Photo by Kyle Phillips/For Oklahoma Voice)

He accused Stitt of taking no substantive action to address illegal immigration here in Oklahoma. He called Stitts Operation Guardian initiative, which aims to deport undocumented immigrants in state prisons, an attempt to save face.

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The governor has been a vocal supporter of Trumps immigration policies.

Sadly, once again, we are just getting noise from people campaigning for their next political promotion, Stitt said in a statement through his communications office. Being governor has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I will continue to do everything in my power to protect both Oklahomans and the innocent children in our communities.

Stitt will be term-limited in 2026 after eight years in office, and Drummond is running to succeed him as governor. Walters hasnt announced a political campaign for reelection nor for another office, but many consider him a potential candidate in a 2026 race.

The round of comments on Monday deepened the ongoing conflict between Oklahomas Republican governor, attorney general and public schools leader.

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Drummond declined Walters request for an opinion on the impact of Trumps order because a state attorney general has no jurisdiction to interpret federal law, according to his response letter.

Walters said he is disappointed but not surprised at Drummonds response.

State Superintendent Ryan Walters asked for a legal opinion from the attorney general over the impact of a presidential executive order. (Photo by Nuria Martinez-Keel/Oklahoma Voice)

He has a responsibility to offer opinions on all laws, not just the ones he deems worthy, Walters said in a statement through a spokesperson. Once again, he is refusing to support President Trumps executive order on illegal immigration at a time when we all need to move forward with a unified front to protect Oklahoma families.

Attorney general opinions interpret state law and sometimes are legally binding. An interpretation of a presidential order is for the federal executive branch to determine, Drummond wrote.

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Notwithstanding your rumored aspirations, you are not part of the federal executive branch, he wrote, hinting at allegations that Walters sought a position in the Trump administration.

Drummond said Trumps order could direct the actions of the federal Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which provide hundreds of millions of dollars supporting various school services in Oklahoma, including cafeteria lunches, English learner programs and support for impoverished students.

He encouraged Walters to cooperate with federal agencies to faithfully implement the executive order.

In the meantime, I suggest you devote increased energy and focus on improving the test scores and reading proficiency of Oklahoma students, Drummond wrote. The people of this state entrusted you with the critical responsibility of administering and managing public education. Fulfilling that responsibility should be your only focus.

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Walters has supported Trumps executive actions and advanced his own policy to no longer allow sanctuary schools in the state of Oklahoma. He proposed a new rule at the state Education Department to require schools to collect students immigration status and report the information to the state.

Taxpayer dollars should be used to support the education of American students, not to subsidize or create a magnet for illegal immigration, Walters said.

States are required to provide public education to children regardless of their immigration status under a 1982 U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

Many Oklahomans have advocated against the rule, which is now before the state Legislature for consideration, and warned it could drive immigrant students away from public education.

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Stitt pledged to block the rule from being enacted and accused Walters of using kids as political pawns to launch a campaign for higher office.

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NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  Old Dominion University Police are seeking the communitys assistance in identifying a man seen on the campus Sunday evening with a handgun.

At approximately 7:15 p.m., university police received a report of an individual in possession of a handgun at the Student Recreation and Well-Being Center on Powhatan Avenue.

Upon arrival, police were able to determine that there was no ongoing threat as the individual was seen on video leaving the campus.

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Police released images of the man.

The subject has black shoulder-length dreadlocks and was wearing a black t-shirt with black shorts.

Authorities added this incident has no connection to the fatal shooting that occurred on campus Wednesday evening, Feb. 26.

If you have any information, contact ODUPD at (757) 683-4000 or via the LiveSafe app.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Older adults are the fastest-growing population in Tennessee, yet they receive the least funding support. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that more than 24% of Tennessees population will be 60 and older by 2030.

Thats an increase of almost 27% from 2012. Nationwide, by 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be 65 or older.

Yet, on average, only 2% to 3% of nonprofit funding goes to agencies that support older adults or aging-related programs.

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When those of us who work to support older adults thought things could not get more challenging, recently came with the realization that even the limited support provided to some could be lost.

Financial constraints grow as Americans age

On behalf of the older adults I serve, I emphatically implore our community and its leaders to commit to financially supporting Tennesseans ages 50 and older. I ask that you not make assumptions about their financial well-being or support systems because this is the reality.

Aging comes with its share of challenges: living on a fixed income, facing potential food insecurity, combating loneliness, managing healthcare costs, and maintaining overall well-being. These struggles are familiar to many, and with each passing birthday, more people will navigate the same realities.

These struggles are more than just slight inconveniences  they can significantly reduce quality of life. For many older adults, limited financial assistance is available to help them and their supporting families unless they fall below the poverty line or qualify for TennCare or Medicaid.

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For older adults who wish to age in place and maintain independence, affordable resources are scarce, and the challenges are many. With a potential funding freeze looming, even caregiver support offering a few hours of respite each week hangs in the balance.

Approve funding to pay for services for older Americans

Due to the nature of our work, guaranteed funding is essential. Therefore, I strongly urge reconsideration of any potential freeze on federal funding for seniors. Additionally, I request that state leaders approve the $21 million requested by the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging, anticipating the increasing number of older adults requiring services.

When older adult programs and senior services across the country already receive the smallest percentage of funding, even from our foundation and philanthropic community, it is disheartening to imagine this population receiving even less.

For individuals wondering what they can do, there are many ways to support older adults, from checking in and offering companionship to donating to supportive programs to advocating for state and federal leaders to address age-related financial challenges.

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At FiftyForward, were grateful for dedicated community and corporate partners who support our mission like Westminster Home Connection, Rebuilding Together Nashville, The Store and Nashville Food Project. Were also forever appreciative of generous individual donors and foundations who give to support older adults. We have made progress in the community thanks to their support over our 68-year history. Yet, we have so much more to do.

Older adults have made significant contributions to our communities. Through decades of work, tax payments, and support, they have played a vital role in economic development and community well-being.

The programs and services we build and maintain for older adults today may be essential for you and me, or our loved ones, tomorrow. Consider this investment as a way to secure our own future.

Sallie Hussey is the CEO of FiftyForward, a Middle Tennessee resource that provides programs and services for adults 50 and older seeking to live longer, more fulfilling lives.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Older Americans in Tennessee need services to survive | Opinion
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The defense and prosecution spent Monday questioning and narrowing the number of potential jurors in the fraud case of James Staten, owner of the defunct Olympus Pools.

In the end, they chose six jurors and two alternates and expect to start opening statements Tuesday morning. The trial is expected to last at least two weeks.

James Staten, owner of Olympus Pools, faces 35 felony charges. The Florida Attorney Generals Office of Statewide Prosecution accuses him of abandoning his customers pool projects and using $1.3 million of their money for his personal gain.

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If found guilty on all 35 counts, Staten faces a minimum of 20 years in prison.

Hot tub company permanently shut down for scamming Floridians, Attorney General says

State prosecutors said the case is about greed that led to fraud. Meanwhile, attorneys for Staten argue there was no intent to defraud customers and this is simply a case of poor business and what they call a civil matter.

Staten was arrested in August 2023 and has remained in jail, as his attorneys claim he has been unable to meet his more than $1 million bond. The original bond was set at $2.8 million.

Staten is represented by the Office of Criminal Defense Attorney Rick Escobar, who has repeatedly said he believes his client is innocent.

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 What the public needs to understand is that sometimes businesses go belly up and just because a business goes bankrupt and people lose money, that does not make it a crime, Escobar said in an interview with Consumer Investigator Shannon Behnken shortly after Statens arrest in 2023.

Woman fires shots at ex during custody exchange he brought his new girlfriend to: affidavit

This case was investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Charges include aggravated white-collar crime, organized scheme to defraud, 20 counts of grand theft, eight counts of missed application of construction funds, and five counts of contractor fraud.

Better Call Behnken began looking into customers complaints nearly four years ago as many complained they were encouraged to pay upfront in exchange for lower prices and faster service, but were left with dangerous holes in their backyards.

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Numerous customers also had liens placed on their homes by subcontractors who said Staten failed to pay them for work they completed on the projects.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Liberals and conservatives have debated government support for public broadcasting since the 1967 Public Broadcasting Act was passed more than 50 years ago. The seemingly perennial argument centers on why the federal government should continue to support organizations like National Public Radio (NPR) and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) and local stations across the country that use their programming.

The issue is back in the hot seat as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) scrutinizes NPR and PBS and Republican lawmakers and officials take aim at federal funding. Public broadcasters and their defenders are gearing up for another appropriations battle. The well-trod debate often revolves around allegations of left-leaning bias in public media, and this round seems no different. But researchers argue focusing on bias alone neglects a more important conversation on the role of public broadcast and how reforms to the system could better address current gaps in the informational ecosystem, particularly local news.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, the original leaders of the Trump administrations Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), teed up public broadcasting and its funding for another round of examination in a Wall Street Journal op-ed last fall. They specifically identified the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)the congressionally established nonprofit institution that distributes some $535 million in annual federal funding to public mediaas a target for cuts. But theirs was just the latest in a long list of attempts to zero out federal support. The Heritage Foundations Project 2025 called for not only cutting funding but also revoking some of the licensing privileges for NPR and PBS stations. And President Donald Trump tried and failed in each of his first term budget proposals to eliminate the funding.

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In fact, as the author of Project 2025s public media chapter noted, nearly every Republican president since Richard Nixon has tried to dismantle or pare back federal funding for public broadcasting. As a candidate, Mitt Romney took heat for advocating cuts to PBS in the 2012 presidential election. Then-House Speaker Newt Gingrich targeted public broadcasting in 1994 but eventually walked back his position.

But public broadcasters fear this time could be different. Musk has succeeded in effectively dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and if not canceling, at least halting, billions in federal grants, all with Trumps blessing. A hearing of the House Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency (DOGE) is set for late March, focusing on the systematically biased content of NPR and PBS. Subcommittee Chair Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, citing NPRs handling of the Hunter Biden laptop story and PBS coverage of Musks questionable salute, suggested public media doesnt deserve a single cent of American taxpayers money.

While Greenes subcommittee doesnt make appropriations decisions, FCC Chair Brendan Carr is looking to add to the scrutiny. In January, he opened investigations into NPR and PBS over potential violations of the federal statutes governing underwriting for public broadcasters. The Communications Act bars noncommercial educational (NCE) stationsthe licensing category under which public broadcasters operatefrom running ads, but it allows for airing messages from station sponsors (also known as underwriters) so long as they dont sound too close to commercial advertisements (e.g., the messages cant contain things like pricing, comparisons to competitors, or calls to action).

The rules on underwriting have been relaxed over time, Harold Furtchtgott-Roth, a former Republican FCC commissioner appointed by President Bill Clinton, told The Dispatch. If a station is found in violation of the underwriting rules, typically, the FCC and the violating station negotiate a consent decree to resolve the issue and a small fine may also be levied by the agencythe fines are usually in the thousands of dollars and almost never reach six figures.

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A veteran communications lawyer, who requested anonymity in order to discuss their experience working on these kinds of cases, told The Dispatch that the NPR and PBS investigations are highly unusual because the FCC normally doesnt make a public announcement until after an investigation has found violations. Carrs letter announcing the inquiries, which appears to scrutinize all 1,500 NPR and PBS network stations, suggests his actions arent based on current evidence of wrongdoing, saying only that he was concerned and that it is possible there are violations.

But a narrow concern about underwriting doesnt seem to be Carrs goal in launching the investigation. I believe this FCC investigation may prove relevant to an ongoing legislative debate, he wrote at the end of his letter. In particular, Congress is actively considering whether to stop requiring taxpayers to subsidize NPR and PBS programming. For my own part, I do not see a reason why Congress should continue sending taxpayer dollars to NPR and PBS given the changes in the media marketplace since the passage of the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967. To the extent that these taxpayer dollars are being used to support a for profit endeavor or an entity that is airing commercial advertisements, then that would further undermine any case for continuing to fund NPR and PBS with taxpayer dollars.

Conservatives and critics of public broadcast argue the media environment has transformed such that the original need for federal support no longer exists. The growth of commercial radio and television broadcasts, cable television, and streaming services along with online content distributed via podcasts and YouTube reflects the vast expansions of the options available to people compared to the world of the 1960s, when just three major commercial networks dominated television. Illustrating how ossified this conversation has become, two George Will columns written nearly 20 years apart make the same exact argument about public media.

PBS and NPR produce some much-beloved programs like Ken Burns documentaries and Morning Edition. But the argument that such programs would not exist today absent federal funding seems to have been overtaken by events. Sesame Street, for example, a lodestar for public broadcast defenders, moved to HBO back in 2016although the program continued to air new episodes on PBS months after they were released, and the show is now back up for grabs.

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Republicans and conservatives also argue that NPR and PBS use taxpayer dollars to promote news and programming with a liberal bias thats out of touch with broad swaths of the country. Former NPR senior business editor Uri Berliners April 2024 cri de cur against the organizations progressive bent provided fresh fodder for this argument; House Republicans held a hearing last May entirely premised on Berliners essay. Although often directed at public media broadly, NPR takes most of the heat for claims of bias. In contrast to NPR, PBS consistently ranks among the most trusted news sources although theres a large partisan gap, with Democrats much more likely to trust the broadcaster than Republicans.

Public media advocates counter that in our fragmented news environment with misinformation running rampant, federal support for public broadcasting is needed now more than ever, and public media offerings like PBS Kids are highly popular national treasures. Proponents also point to the importance of local public broadcast stations in the emergency alert system and distributing information during disasters when power, internet, and cell service can be lost.

But researchers and some local broadcasters argue reflexive defenses of the status quo miss the need for the system to evolve. Seventy-five percent of CPB funding goes to local public broadcast stations in the form of community services grants, but much of that money flows back to NPR and PBS to pay for airing the national programming they produce. The Public Broadcasting Act requires local stations to spend 23 percent of their grant funds on national public radio programming and 25 percent for national public television programming. Stations also have to pay dues fees to NPR in order to broadcast its programs.

By design, this structure contributed to a decline of local production and programming. But in 2025, thats where the need is, argued Howard Husock, a former CPB board member and research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. Its incredible whats available commercially now at relatively low prices, but whats not available is local journalism, he told The Dispatch. Husock believes federal support should be reformed to allow and encourage local broadcasters to focus on local news.

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There is a public good to be filled with local journalism, and they have got the network to do that with 1,000 licensees across the country, he added. But theyve got to let those licensees keep their money. Theyve got to make a whole series of changes that would allow that to flourish. Some of the larger local stations in big cities like WNYC do produce their own news programming and are important forces in their local news environments, Husock noted, but many smaller stations cant afford to. Steve Waldman, the president of the Rebuild Local News coalition, argued that broadcasters have an opportunity to help fill the vacuum left by the local news crisis.

NPR and PBS have traditionally banded together with local broadcasters in the debate over federal support, but the united front belies the tension between their interests. PBS and NPR have their own ambitions and challenges, argued Steve Bass, a 44-year public media veteran who served as the CEO of Oregon Public Broadcasting until last year. We should expect them to be good partners, but they cant and wont solve our problems, even if thats what they appear to be promising. If federal funding is cut, many smaller local stations would take a harder hit than NPR and PBS, which would likely turn to large foundations and underwriters for more support.

Distancing local public broadcasters from the bias debate surrounding NPR and PBS could potentially help those broadcasters gain more Republican allies on Capitol Hill. Rep. Claudia Tenney, a New York Republican, is one of the GOP lawmakers who has recently introduced legislation to cut federal public broadcast funds. But Tenney is also a leading proponent of increasing support for local news, sponsoring a bill in 2023 to provide tax credits to local news organizations.

Regardless of whether doubling down on local journalism is the best path forward for public broadcasters, the status quo model is increasingly under stress as local stations have struggled to navigate the shift toward on-demand viewing and listeningstations pay to air NPR and PBS programs that viewers can alternatively access on demand via digital platforms.

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There is a lack of candid conversation in public media about the changes occurring around us, Bass argued. National convenings often are celebrations of the status quo rather than opportunities for discussion and debate.

But if the policy conversation remains dominated by the two poles of abolition or staying the course, the more at risk the public broadcast becomes over the long term. The funding debate should really be about whats the need and the future, Husock told The Dispatch. [The] bias [conversation] assumes that everything is going to stay the same and you just dont want it to be biased, but its got to be a much bigger debate.

Read more at The Dispatch

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Youngstown Police are investigating a homicide that happened early Monday morning outside a restaurant on the citys South Side.

Read next: Youngstown brothers sentenced for drug trafficking

When Youngstown Police first arrived at the scene, there were still dozens of people in the parking lot of Vibez on Midlothian Boulevard where they found 30-year-old Deandre Stores fatally shot.

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To us right now, it appears that he was definitely the target of this homicide, said Capt. Jason Simon.

Police believe Stores was sitting in his car when he was shot several times. It happened shortly before 2:30 a.m. as the restaurant was closing and other patrons were leaving, but investigators have struggled to find witnesses.

Many of those folks that were there likely saw or heard something that was very important, that would help us further the investigation, Simon said.

This is the third fatal shooting to happen in that parking lot since December 2021 when a man was killed and three others were wounded. In July 2024, another homicide happened there  all occurring between 2-3 a.m.

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The sooner that we have information and cooperation from witnesses, no matter how small they think the detail is, can really help us put that final piece together, Simon said.

Police say the previous two shootings in the same area, they were able to solve the crimes thanks to witnesses who were willing to come forward.

When you couple that with the investigative leads that we are looking at, we get arrests very quickly, Simon said. Inevitably, someone saw something; thats important, and we would encourage them to come forward. Even if its anonymously, to give us some information that will help us hold someone or people accountable for this terrible homicide.

Police continue to speak with known witnesses as part of this ongoing investigation. Call Crime Stoppers at 330-746-CLUE or 330-742-8YPD with any information. Tips can be left anonymously.

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Andrew Peterson contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO)  One person has been found dead after a pick-up truck fell through the ice near Lagoona Beach on Big Stone Lake in northern Minnesota.

Shortly after 9 a.m. on March 2, someone called the Big Stone County Sheriffs Office to report the truck falling in and that no one had gotten out of the water.

How will our dry winter impact farmers?

Emergency crews and a dive team located a single individual in the vehicle underwater. According to the news release, they performed life saving measures, but the person was pronounced dead after being airlifted to Sanford Fargo.

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The individuals identity is being withheld until the family is notified.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KELOLAND.com.
Last Friday, February 28, 2025, a snowmobiler was killed by an avalanche northwest of Mazama, Washington, near Harts Pass, according to a preliminary report from the Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC).



They were riding with two other snowmobilers when a large slab avalanche was triggered. Two members of the group were caught and carried by the slide. The deceased was fully buried and killed. NWAC wrote that the other snowmobiler was partially buried and injured.



NWAC is working with local avalanche professionals to investigate the accident. The avalanche center aims to post full reports within three weeks of an incident.



Earlier this winter, NWAC reported that four backcountry tourers were caught by an avalanche in the Commonwealth Basin between Kendall Peak and Red Mountain on January 11. Two of the backcountry tourers were injured.



Nationwide, 15 backcountry users have been killed in avalanche accidents this winter, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC).

Related: Canada Issues Urgent Avalanche Warning for Skiers and Snowboarders
An 83-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man were killed and several more people were injured Monday in a suspected car ramming in the west German city of Mannheim, officials said.

A suspect was identified and arrested, Mannheim police said in a statement. A spokesperson for the state interior ministry in Stuttgart said the suspect is a 40-year-old German man who lives in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. Police said at this time "it is not assumed that there is a political background."

The attack happened around 12:15 p.m local time. Five people were seriously injured, police said in a news release. Five others suffered minor injuries. They were all taken to different hospitals.

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A major police operation was underway and people were urged to avoid the city center, which has been busy due to an ongoing carnival season. The Mannheimer Morgan newspaper spoke to an eyewitness who saw a car drive into several pedestrians.

Police stand next to a damaged car in Mannheim, Germany, after a car drove into pedestrians.

Following the attack, the city of Heidelberg said it was canceling its carnival parade on Tuesday.

"The terrible images from Mannheim are shocking and our thoughts are with the victims and their families," Mayor Eckart Wurzner said in a translated statement. "This is the second time within a year that our neighboring city has suffered such a terrible act of violence  in a situation like this, it was inconceivable for us to celebrate a joyful carnival procession here in Heidelberg."

The news comes just 18 days after two people were killed and at least 28 people injured in a car ramming in Munich. Police said the suspected driver, a 24-year-old Afghan national, may have had an "extremist background."

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The western German city of Mannheim is in the middle of the Rhineland region's carnival season, with colorful parades taking place this week alongside a market featuring food stalls, rides and games.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Before Emmanuel Macrons proposed one-month truce, there was a plan to halt strikes on energy infrastructure between Russia and Ukraine. Officials from Kyiv and Moscow even flew to Qatar to hold preliminary talks over the idea.

It was hoped that by striking a tacit agreement on a partial ceasefire covering energy infrastructure, Ukraine could gauge if Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, was ready to commit to broader peace talks.

There was progress.

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Russian and Ukrainian intelligence officials reached an understanding and the number of long-range strikes on each countrys energy infrastructure dropped.

But then Ukraine sprung a surprise attack, opening up a salient inside Russias southern Kursk region, leading to a collapse in the negotiations.

The idea of a partial pause was revived by Mr Macron, Frances president, as he flew back from a gathering of international leaders in London on Sunday.

He said the one-month ceasefire would cover attacks in the air, at sea and on energy infrastructure.

In theory, the wider war would temporarily end and any fighting would be contained to positional jostling between Ukrainian and Russian troops on the front lines.

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Mr Macron believes his proposal will serve as a test as to whether Putin really wants to sit down for peace talks, as Donald Trump has claimed.

It will also test claims by the US president that he does not need to offer security guarantees to Ukraine because he trusts his Russian counterpart not to break any settlement.

Any temporary ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia would also not see Kyiv offered Western support in enforcing the agreement.

It would simply act as a precursor to a final settlement, which the likes of France and the UK insist must deliver a lasting, durable peace.

A Ukrainian soldier makes coffee in a dugout near the front-line town of Chasiv Yar - Oleg Petrasiuk/Ukrainian Armed Forces/Reuters

This is when the coalition of the willing, led by Mr Macron and Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, would seek to deploy troops to Ukraine.

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Under the initial plans, Western governments would commit to using fighter jets to police Ukraines skies, naval assets to patrol the Black Sea and ground troops to protect critical infrastructure and train Ukrainian soldiers.

The US is being asked to provide intelligence and logistical support to make the operation possible.

European countries involved in the scheme want this to come with a US backstop, essentially a promise from Washington to respond with lethal force if troops inside Ukraine are attacked by Russia or its proxies.

For this, the US would station missiles and fighter jets on standby in Eastern Europe, most likely in Poland and Romania, and be capable of striking within minutes of any aggression.

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This part of the settlement, however, feels a long way off, with no real faith in either Ukraine or Europe that Mr Trump is moving closer to agreeing to a deal.

Fighting continues in Ukraine, where troops fired a howitzer on the front line near Chasiv Yar in the Donetsk region on Monday - Oleg Petrasiuk/Ukrainian Armed Forces/Reuters

Macrons haste

Mr Macron appeared to jump the gun when he announced the initial ceasefire proposal.

The French president, who believes he is one of Europes great strategic thinkers, has a history of floating ideas before they are agreed internationally.

British officials have poured cold water on the strategy for now. Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, told Sky News: The very real worry that Ukrainians have is that any short pause in the war simply allows the Russians time to re-arm, regroup and reinvade.

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Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, was also not ready to endorse the ceasefire because it did not come with any hard security guarantees.

If you dont have an end to the war and you dont have security guarantees, no one is able to control a ceasefire, he told reporters at Londons Stansted Airport before flying back to Ukraine.

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COVINGTON COUNTY, Ala. (WDHN)  An investigation is underway into an officer-involved shooting on Sunday in Covington County.

Officers say that on Sunday morning, dispatch received multiple 911 hang-ups from Chad Sheehan, a man police say has a history of domestic violence.

A deputy went to the home on County Road 21 in Red Level for a welfare check, and police say he noticed the lights in the house were on, and as he approached, a vehicle rammed through a gate, charging the officer.

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Police say Sheehan, who didnt live at the home, exited the vehicle with a firearm and charged at the officer. The deputy then fired several shots and hit Sheehan.

Following the shooting, Covington County Sheriff Blake Turnman said the deputy provided life-saving measures and took Sheehan to Andalusia Hospital, where they say he is in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.

We will keep the community informed as the situation unfolds, Sheriff Turnman said in a press release. Currently, there is no public safety risk from Chad Sheehan.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency State Bureau of Investigation is investigating the incident, and charges are expected to be filed against Sheehan.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
SPARTANBURG COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA)  After spending all day Sunday helping fight a 500 acre wildfire in Polk County, a group of Spartanburg County firemen are now bound for the South Carolina coast to aid in the fight against more wildfires there.

Boiling Springs Fire Department in Spartanburg County took to social media late Sunday night with well wishes for four firefighters headed to Horry County to aid those fighting wildfires which have burned roughly 2,000 acres over the weekend.

The trip comes after the group spent their Sunday helping to contain the Melrose Fire in Polk County, which has forced people out of their homes and, as of Sunday night, was only 30% contained.

The same group of firefighters spent Sunday in Tryon assisting with fire containment efforts and will now travel to the Myrtle Beach area for 48 hours to provide coverage and aid, the department said in a Facebook post. Pictured are firefighters S. King, L. Scruggs, Engineer H. Israel, and Captain T. Owens. We thank everyone who has stepped up to provide local and statewide support and coverage.

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The Parker Fire District in Greenville County also took to social media to provide a sendoff for five firefighters who left Sunday afternoon for Horry County.

Captain Zachary Crutchfield, Lt. Chris Vaughn, engineer Noah Wilson and firefighters Quinn Tucker and Tristan Tuttle were dispatched Sunday to help fight the Myrtle Beach fires.

We are blessed to have these men represent Parker District and provide needed help to those in need, the department said in a Facebook post.

According to the South Carolina Forestry Service website, the Covington Drive fire in Horry County is roughly 1,600 acres in size and 0% contained. You can read live updates on the fire and local responses to the fire by clicking here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
VIROQUA, Wis. (WFRV)  A 60-year-old man from western Wisconsin was arrested for Manufacturing and Delivering Methamphetamine charges after a recent ongoing investigation.

According to the Vernon County Sheriffs Office, Jon Charles Fanta of rural Viroqua was arrested on Friday, February 28, after a search warrant on Nelson Road.

Authorities conducted the search warrant around 9 a.m. in the Town of Franklin and reportedly found illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia, and a firearm. As a result, Fanta was arrested and booked on the following charges:

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2 counts of Manufacture/Deliver Methamphetamine 10-50 grams

Manufacture/Deliver Methamphetamine 3-10 grams

Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine 10-50 grams

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Maintain Drug Trafficking Place

Felon in Possession of Firearm

Police in Kansas recover stolen vehicle out of Wisconsin from person of interest in death investigation

Vernon County Sheriffs Office

Vernon County Sheriffs Office

The incident remains under investigation by the Vernon County Sheriffs Office. No additional information was provided.

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Only 4 percent of surveyed Americans said they are backing Russia in the war in Ukraine, but 44 percent said they also dont back Ukraine in a CBS News/YouGov poll.

In the poll, which took place between Feb. 26 and 28, 4 percent of the respondents said they personally support Russia when it comes to the war. Fifty-two percent said they personally support Ukraine, while 44 percent said neither.

The polls survey period ended the same day as a recent tense Oval Office meeting between President Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Vice President Vance. In the meeting, Zelensky and Trump clashed over U.S. support of Ukraine.

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Following the meeting, Trump said on his Truth Social platform that the Ukrainian president is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.

Trump has been pushing for an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine, with U.S. and Russian officials meeting in Saudi Arabia last month.

The meeting also resulted in blowback from Democrats, with Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) saying it was an utter embarrassment for America.

Regarding American military aid to Ukraine, 51 percent of respondents in the CBS News/YouGov poll backed it, while 49 percent said they didnt.

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The CBS News/YouGov poll featured a margin of error of 2.5 percent points and 2,311 participants.

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A president just disrespected America in the Oval Office. It wasnt Zelenskyy.

That was the verdict of the editorial team at the Kyiv Independent, one of Ukraines leading media outlets, on a remarkable spat in the Oval Office that played out on Feb. 28, 2025.

The online newspaper European Pravda characterized the quarrel at the highest level as a diplomatic failure, but added that it was not yet a catastrophe.

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Some Ukrainians I have spoken to since the fractious encounter, during which Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy was repeatedly hectored by U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, have indeed characterized it as disastrous for the country. But for others, the incident has been calmly accepted as the new reality in U.S.-Ukraine relations.

There have been some questions directed at Zelenskyy  did he allow himself to be baited into an an argument that could have real consequences? Should he have remained silent? But for the most part, the treatment of Ukraines president by Trump and Vance has produced a presumably unintended consequence: It has unified a war-weary Ukrainian people.

As one friend who has been displaced by war from the now occupied city of Nova Kakhovka told me, there has not been this level of mobilization and patriotism in three years.

The country needs unity

This unity is seen in the response across Ukraines political divide. Petro Poroshenko, an often outspoken opponent of Zelenskyy and leader of the opposition party European Solidarity, said the next day that, to the surprise of many, he will not criticize Zelenskyys performance at the White House. The country does not need criticism, the country needs unity, he said in the video posted on X.

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Anecdotally, even those Ukrainians who did not vote for Zelenskyy have told me that events in the Oval Office made them feel more supportive of Zelenskyy.

However, a sense of realism is sinking in over the shifting stance of the U.S. administration. Trumps stated trust in Vladimir Putin and his conciliatory comments over Russian aggression  including a refusal to acknowledge Russian war crimes  have, for many Ukrainians, set low expectations that the White House can help achieve a quick and lasting peace. Yet, as Inna Sovsun of the opposition party Holos noted, It was difficult to watch a president whos been a victim of Russian aggression being attacked by the leader of the free world.

Setting the record straight

The Feb. 28 meeting between the U.S. and Ukrainian leaders followed weeks of increasingly harsh Trump rhetoric toward Zelenskyy. Since being inaugurated on Jan. 20, Trump has called the Ukrainian leader a dictator without elections, claiming  incorrectly  that Zelenksyy had 4% approval ratings. He also indicted that the invasion by Russian troops in February 2022 was Ukraines fault.

Such comments had already made Ukrainians rally around Zelenskyy, who has a healthy 63% approval rating, according to the latest polls.

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The ugly scenes in the Oval Office could see a further rallying around Zelenskyy, especially if he can successfully characterize his role in the dispute as that of defender of his people. Doing so would tap into growing popular resentment over the new U.S. administrations apparent unwillingness to acknowledge Russian war crimes.

Large U.S. and Ukrainian flags hang on the Kyiv River Port building on March 2, 2025 in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photo by Pierre Crom/Getty Images

In the days leading up to the Zelenskyy-Trump meeting, the U.S. voted with Russia against a United Nations resolution condemning Russian aggression and opposed the wording of a draft G7 statement marking the third anniversary of the war, which depicted Russia as the aggressor.

Letting Putin off the hook

The angry exchanges in the Oval Office seemed to have been sparked by Zelenskyys objection to Trumps assertion that Russian President Vladimir Putin is a man of his word.

That refusal to call out Putin  who faces an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court  angers Ukrainians who have suffered Russian aggression for three years. To hammer that point home, Zekenskyy showed Trump and others in the Oval Office photos of Ukrainian prisoners of war who return from Russian captivity tortured and abused.

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As Ukrainian human rights lawyer and Nobel Prize winner Oleksandra Matviichuk noted in a Feb. 17 speech, 65% of Ukrainians polled early in the conflict said their main disappointment in ending the war would be impunity for Russian crimes. Three years of conflict will have only hardened that sentiment  yet the U.S., under Trumps leadership, looks increasingly willing to let Putin off the hook.

Defender of the nation  and truth

A large section of Ukrainian media  both traditionally pro- and anti-Zelenskyy alike  have since Feb. 28 portrayed the president in the role of a defender of both his nation and the truth.

He was, this framing has it, forced into the difficult position of having to set the record straight and challenge untrue statements in real time, and in front of the seemingly antagonistic leader of the worlds largest economy, whose support has been crucial in Ukraines attempt to repel the invading Russian army.

To some, keeping silent would have been tantamount to capitulation, but others have questioned Zelenskyys approach.

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While still maintaining that Zelenskyys key message was correct, some Ukrainians have suggested that his emotional tone in the Oval Office was not constructive.

Opposition lawmaker Oleskiy Goncharenko suggested in an interview on CNN that Zelenskyy should have been more diplomatic and more calm given that the stakes were so high.

Meanwhile, there were also those who questioned the decision to hold such an important conversation in front of the press, especially without the use of professional translators who potentially could have tamped down the rhetoric and slowed the pace of the exchange. Thus, as Tymofiy Mylovanov, the adviser to the office of the president and head of the Kyiv School of Economics put it, some things could have been lost in translation.

Zelensky is our democratic leader

So where does the Oval Office dispute leave both Zelenskyy and U.S.-Ukrainian relations?

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In the aftermath of the dispute, Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham  who has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine  suggested that Zelenskyy should resign, the implications being that his relationship with Trump was so broken that his presence is now counterproductive for Ukraines priorities.

It is a line that hasnt gone down well in Ukraine. Kira Rudyk, the leader of opposition party Holos, retorted that it was up to the Ukrainian people alone to decide on their leadership and future.

Moreover, to many Ukrainians the barrier to harmonious Ukraine-U.S. relations is not Zelenskyy, but Trump.

Mustafa Nayyem, who served in Zelesnkyys government, summed up the view of many Ukrainians by claiming in a social media post that the Trump administration does not just dislike Ukraine. They despise us. The contempt is deeper than indifference, and more dangerous than outright hostility, he added in the Feb. 28 post.

Intentional provocation

Serhii Sternenko, a Ukrainian activist lawyer and blogger, described the Oval Office spat as an intentional provocation on behalf of Trump to discredit Ukraine as an unreliable partner in the peace negotiations.

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Sternenko is not alone in his assessment. Journalist and blogger Vitaly Portnikov argued that the spat was the result of Trumps unrealistic promise of ending the war quickly being confronted with the reality that perhaps Russia does not want to make any concessions. The thinking here is Putin has shown no indication that he will bend on his war goals, so for Trump, framing Zelenskyy as not ready for peace allows the U.S. president to walk away from his campaign promise without accepting defeat.

Among friends: Zelenskyy with Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Frances President Emmanuel Macron on March 2, 2025. Justin Tallis - WPA Pool/Getty Images

A new reality

Beyond the headlines and initial reactions from Ukrainian politicians, journalists and civilians, there is also another sentiment that is emerging: resignation to the new reality.

Most Ukrainians want an end to war, but in a way that preserves their sovereignty and guarantees future security. Until recently, that was shared by the occupants of the White House. It is becoming increasingly clear to many Ukrainians that, in regards the war in Ukraine, the U.S. will play a different role under Trump  meaning Ukraine will increasingly look to European leaders as primary partners.

Perhaps Goncharenko, the opposition member of Ukraines Parliament, best summed up the consequences of the Oval Office spat: It was not Ukraine, it was not the United States who won  it was Putin.

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This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Lena Surzhko Harned, Penn State

Read more:



Lena Surzhko Harned does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
President Trump has laid down a challenge to Arab leaders: Show me a better plan for Gaza if you dont like mine.

At an emergency summit in Cairo on March 4, the Arab League will attempt to hash out a counter to Trumps proposal, which involves deporting Gazas population and turning the area into a new Riviera. It will come as no surprise if the League offers billions to rebuild Gaza, with the Gulf states footing the bill. But that would avoid the real problem, which is Hamas.

If the League wants to show Trump that its serious, any proposal it offers must begin from the premise that Hamas has no place in Gazas future, either in government or as a military force. Many Arab leaders say as much in private but are afraid of the backlash that might follow a public statement. Yet if Hamas remains, the cycle of rebuilding and destruction will continue, because endless war is Hamass plan.

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The Arab League does not act without a consensus, which will not come easily on this point. Iraq hesitates to antagonize Iran, the leading patron of Hamas. Algeria continues to pose as a revolutionary nationalist power, and Tunisia follows a similar ideology. But if the League cannot act, then Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the Emirates should present a plan of their own.

Cairo and Amman face unrest at home when Gaza is in flames. Riyadh and Abu Dhabi want to see regional stability that is often hampered by Islamist groups like Hamas. Even if it is only these four that say Gazas recovery depends on ousting Hamas, that would send an unprecedented message to Palestinians that they do not have to accept the status quo in the coastal strip.

To deal with the expected backlash, Arab leaders who challenge Hamas should tell their subjects that they are doing what is necessary to prevent another devastating war and prevent the policy of expulsion that seems to have captured Trumps imagination. This explanation will leave many unsatisfied, but it has the advantage of being true, and avoiding this truth until now has only encouraged radicalization.

While Trump initially showed no inclination to compromise on his plan to build a Palestinian Riviera, he then told Fox News, Im not forcing it. Im just going to sit back and recommend it.

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Yet Arab leaders do not seem poised to take advantage of this opportunity. Several held an unofficial meeting in Riyadh on Feb. 21. This appeared to be a step toward finalizing a proposal for the summit that draws from Egypts unpublished plan for Gaza, which focuses on reconstruction but leaves security and governance unaddressed. In the long run, Cairo and Amman have more to gain from directly taking the lead on security by having their own troops provide security.

Early in the war, Jordan ruled out this option unequivocally. Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi asserted in November 2023 that There is no chance for Arab peacekeeping forces to play a role in Gaza after the war. If Jordanian troops did play such a role, it would invite accusations of acting as proxies for Israel. But the prevalence of such fears is precisely why Gaza was left to Hamas, with catastrophic consequences.

In private, Arab leaders are much more candid about the necessity of solving the problem of Hamas. Shortly after the Oct. 7, 2023 massacre, the veteran diplomat Dennis Ross observed, Over the past two weeks, when I talked to Arab officials throughout the region whom I have long known, every single one told me that Hamas must be destroyed in Gaza. They made clear that if Hamas is perceived as winning, it will validate the groups ideology of rejection  and put their own governments on the defensive.

Now is the time for those officials to summon their courage. They should be prepared to tell both Palestinians and their own constituents that Hamas has repeatedly dragged Gaza into war, leaving devastation behind then rearming for the next conflict with Israel. It is they, not Hamas, who are preventing expulsion and possibly even creating a viable path to statehood.

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There is no guarantee this plan will succeed. If Hamas finds a way to continue using Gaza as a base for military operations, it will likely provoke Israeli retaliations. This would put Arab peacekeepers in a bind, since direct cooperation with Israeli forces would be politically explosive.

Another difficult question will be what role to assign the Palestinian Authority. In the West Bank, it has proven both ineffective and oppressive. Yet in principle it remains the recognized representative of the Palestinian people. That said, it may accept a role that is more ceremonial than substantive because it is Hamass main rival and will reap tremendous benefits from its defeat.

No president besides Trump would have dared to propose resettling 2 million Gazans abroad. The proposal itself may never have won Arab support. Yet it sent shockwaves through the region, forcing Arab leaders to rethink old policies that only empowered Hamas. Now they need to take the next step and propose solutions that begin from the premise that Gaza can only thrive without Hamas.

Ahmad Sharawi is a research analyst at The Foundation for Defense of Democracies, focusing on Middle East affairs and the Levant.

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In a 2021 column for this publication and in my latest book, Grand Old Unraveling, I argued that the U.S. Constitution isnt working.

Earlier this month, Washington Post columnist Karen Tumulty contended that we are witnessing a constitutional collapse. She is right.

President Trump has accelerated the unraveling of that once meticulously constructed document. He has halted the work performed by several agencies funded by Congress, fired thousands of civil service employees without cause and removed inspectors general and leaders of the U.S. military. He has even attempted to rewrite the Constitution by voiding birthright citizenship guaranteed in the 14th Amendment.

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In an interview with me, Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon (D-Pa.) deplored Trumps highjacking of congressional powers, noting that Republicans in Congress are not willing to do their jobs.

Attempting to prick the conscience of his Senate colleagues, Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) wonders why they have not fought to preserve their constitutional power of the purse. Sadly, the only answer he can find is, We gave it up!

With the emergence of what American Enterprise Institute scholar Jack Landman Goldsmith calls Donald Trumps Caesarean presidency, Republicans have been content to forfeit their constitutional responsibilities. Defending Elon Musks so-called Department of Government Efficiency, Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) says that while Musks actions may be unconstitutional, nobody should bellyache.

Not surprisingly, as Scanlon told me, there have been daily crossings of constitutional boundaries in the 40 days of Trumps second administration.

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This abdication of congressional responsibility did not begin with Trump. For decades, Congress has been willingly ceding vast authority to the president, including the power to declare war. It has written vague statutes and left it to the executive branch to provide the regulations needed for implementation and. It has allowed presidents to declare emergencies that allow for the waiving of laws and other unchecked actions.

The late Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) once lamented the absence of congressional leadership. In 2017, he refused to overturn the Affordable Care Act, saying, We are an important check on the powers of the executive. Our consent is necessary for the president to appoint jurists and powerful government officials and in many respects to conduct foreign policy. Whether or not we are of the same party, we are not the presidents subordinates. We are his equal.

That is no longer true. The presidential system created by the Founders has morphed into an American-style parliamentary system. Party-line voting has become the norm in Congress. And confirming presidential nominees is now a matter of party loyalty.

One senior White House official described the current confirmation process as a pass-fail test, adding, The Senate needs to advise and consent, not advise and adjust.

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Yet it is too easy to blame our leaders for our constitutional collapse. The decline of civic education is a major factor contributing to the Constitutions demise. Following the 2001 passage of George W. Bushs No Child Left Behind Law, with its emphasis on reading and math test scores, civics classes are now of secondary (or even tertiary) importance. The result is a grotesque lack of civic knowledge.

A 2024 report from the Sandra Day OConnor Institute for American Democracy found that one in three respondents did not know there are three branches of government, much less what those branches are and what they do. The 2022 National Assessment of Educational Progress showed the civics scores of eighth graders had declined. The citizenship exam given to those seeking to become naturalized U.S. citizens is one that many native-born Americans would undoubtedly fail.

In 1796, President George Washington called for the creation of a national university, saying, The primary object of such a national institution should be the education of our youth in the science of government. More than a century later, public schools took upon themselves the task of providing civic education to newly arrived immigrants.

A 1920 Massachusetts conference of educators concluded, We believe in an Americanization which has for its end the making of good American citizens by developing in the mind of everyone who inhabits American soil an appreciation of the principles and practices of good American citizenship.

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The lack of basic civic education makes the task of explaining what is happening in the nations capital extraordinarily difficult. Scanlon noted that in a post-truth age people not only dont understand how government works but they are easily swayed by every Tom, Dick and Harry Huckster with a Twitter account.

In 1789, Thomas Jefferson wrote, Whenever the people are well informed, they can be trusted with their own government [such that] whenever things get so far wrong as to attract their notice, they may be relied on to set them right.

But when citizens are poorly informed, they can be easily manipulated by those seeking to undo our founding principles. Then, to paraphrase Jefferson, it becomes impossible to set things right.

Donald Trump has shown little respect for the Constitution. In his first term, he argued that Article Two gives him the right to do whatever I want. At the start of his second administration, Trump posted a quote purportedly from Napoleon: He who saves his country does not violate any law.

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In 2022, resurrecting the tired old chestnut that the 2020 election was stolen, Trump called for the termination of all rules, regulations and articles, even those found in the Constitution. Today, he has set about doing just that.

And he has help. Russell Vought, Trumps director of the Office of Management and Budget, believes we are in a post-constitutional moment. The result, says Vought, is the creation of a new regime that pays only lip service to the old Constitution.

Federal officeholders, including the president, are required to swear or affirm they will defend the Constitution. But for Trump and his compliant Republican colleagues, these are merely pro-forma pledges. For them, paying lip service to the Constitution means reciting words without meaning.

The Constitution has already collapsed.

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John Kenneth White is a professor emeritus at The Catholic University of America. His latest book is titled Grand Old Unraveling: The Republican Party, Donald Trump, and the Rise of Authoritarianism. He can be reached at johnkennethwhite.com .

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The recent heated exchange between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office was more than just a diplomatic disagreement  it was a public spectacle that could reshape the U.S.-Ukraine relationship and alter the course of the war in Europe.

With Trump accusing Zelensky of gambling with World War III and demanding more gratitude for American support, all on camera, the encounter was one of the most hostile public clashes between a U.S. president and a foreign leader in modern history. The fallout was immediate: Zelensky left the White House without signing a key minerals deal, and Trump made it clear that he would only engage with Ukraine again if it was ready for peace on his terms.

Public disputes between U.S. presidents and allied leaders are nothing new. Throughout history, American presidents have clashed with foreign leaders over war, trade and diplomacy, sometimes behind closed doors and sometimes in full view of the world.

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In the 1960s, President John F. Kennedy and French President Charles de Gaulle had a tense relationship over NATO and military strategy. De Gaulle, fiercely protective of Frances independence, rejected U.S. dominance in European affairs and even withdrew from NATOs military command in 1966. While Kennedy largely kept his frustrations private, the divide between France and the U.S. was well-known.

A decade later, President Richard Nixon had a famously tense relationship with Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Nixon, frustrated with Trudeaus independent foreign policy, was caught on White House tapes calling him a pompous egghead. Trudeau, upon hearing of the insult, coolly responded, Ive been called worse things by better people. Though the two countries remained allies, their personal animosity played out in diplomatic tensions.

In the 1980s, President Ronald Reagan and West German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt publicly battled over NATOs nuclear policy. Reagan wanted to deploy missiles in West Germany to counter the Soviet Union, while Schmidt faced enormous pressure from the German public to avoid escalating tensions. Their disagreements played out in the media, revealing cracks within NATO at a critical moment in the Cold War.

More recently, President Barack Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sparred over the Iran nuclear deal, which Netanyahu strongly opposed. He took the unprecedented step of addressing the U.S. Congress, without White House approval, to denounce the agreement. Obama responded by dismissing Netanyahus claims, saying, The prime minister made all sorts of claims about this pending deal  none of that has come true. This public dispute strained U.S.-Israel relations and highlighted the challenges of managing alliances in an era of increasingly open political divides.

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While past U.S. presidents have fought with allies, Trumps public confrontation with Zelensky is different in several ways.

First, it happened during an active war in which Ukraine depends on U.S. military aid for survival. Unlike Kennedy and de Gaulle or Obama and Netanyahu, whose disagreements were about long-term strategic issues, this dispute could have immediate consequences on the battlefield. With Trump openly questioning U.S. support for Ukraine, Russia may see an opportunity to press its advantage, knowing that Ukraines strongest backer is wavering.

Second, Trumps diplomacy style is far more confrontational than that of his predecessors. While past presidents often tried to maintain an appearance of unity with allies, Trump has never shied away from controversy. He has berated NATO allies over defense spending, called Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau very dishonest and weak, and dismissed French President Emmanuel Macrons criticisms of U.S. foreign policy. His confrontation with Zelensky fits into a broader pattern of treating alliances as transactional deals rather than long-term commitments.

Third, this dispute directly affects the future of U.S. foreign policy. If Trump decides to pull back on support for Ukraine, it could force European nations to step up their assistance or leave Ukraine more vulnerable to Russian aggression. The cancellation of the rare minerals deal, which was supposed to be a way for Ukraine to repay the U.S. for military aid, adds another layer of uncertainty. Without that agreement, the financial and strategic relationship between the two countries remains in limbo.

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Trumps outburst at Zelensky and his insistence that Ukraine must accept U.S.-dictated peace terms signal a major shift in how America engages with its allies. For decades, the U.S. has positioned itself as the leader of the free world, providing security and support to partners in exchange for strategic alliances. Trumps approach suggests that alliances are no longer based on shared values or mutual defense but on immediate political gain.

The implications of this shift go beyond Ukraine. If the U.S. begins treating all its alliances as short-term deals rather than long-term commitments, other countries may start looking elsewhere for security guarantees. NATO allies may feel pressured to build up their own defenses rather than relying on U.S. protection. Countries like Taiwan, which depend on American support to deter aggression from China, may wonder if they can still count on the U.S. in a crisis.

At the same time, Trumps handling of the situation raises concerns about his approach to global diplomacy. While he claims to want peace, his statements have emboldened Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he continues to praise as a very smart guy. If Trump truly intends to negotiate an end to the war, his public humiliation of Zelensky suggests he is more interested in forcing Ukraine into submission rather than securing a fair settlement.

Zelenskys abrupt departure from the White House was a striking moment. His visit was meant to reassure Washington that Ukraine remains a strong and committed ally, but instead, it turned into a political disaster. The image of a wartime leader being reprimanded by his most important ally sends a troubling message to both Ukraines enemies and its supporters.

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If Trump follows through on his threats to withdraw support, Ukraine may have to seek alternative military backing from Europe. While European countries have provided significant aid, they do not have the military resources of the United States. A reduction in U.S. support could leave Ukraine at a severe disadvantage.

Akshit Tyagi has worked as a business and financial journalist in India for Republic TV. He is a student of Master of International Relations at the Australian National University, Canberra.

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The Republican House majority could be in jeopardy before the 2026 election cycle even begins. The battle is unfolding now in Wisconsin, where, on April 1, voters will head to the polls for a state Supreme Court race with massive national implications.

The Republicans are currently clinging to a razor-thin 218-215 House majority. A liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court could strike down the states congressional map, costing Republicans two seats and potentially flipping control of the House.

Republicans already dropped this ball once in 2023, when the conservative candidate for Supreme Court was outspent more than five-to-one and got crushed by 11 points. Democrats flooded Wisconsin with mad money from all over the country, while most national Republicans were asleep at the switch.

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Unless Republicans wake up, they are destined to repeat history just two short years later.

Although Wisconsins judicial elections are technically non-partisan, they function as fiercely partisan contests, with candidates staking out clear positions on key issues such as crime, abortion, voter ID and taxation.

This years Democratic-backed candidate, Susan Crawford, a circuit court judge in deep-blue Dane County (home to Madison), is already making her strategy clear: hammer her conservative opponent, former Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel, on abortion while fundraising on the promise that a win would help Democrats redraw the states congressional districts.

She has wasted no time launching attacks and blasting out fundraising emails explicitly stating that if she prevails, she will shift the courts focus to delivering Democrats two additional U.S. House seats.

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National Republicans and donors need to take this race seriously. It is the first major election since President Trumps victory in November, and the media are watching closely, eager to weaponize any Republican failure.

If the Wisconsin Supreme Court retains its current liberal majority, expect the left-wing headline writers to have a field day: Wisconsin Rejects MAGA! Republicans Fumble, Again! Trumps Grip on Wisconsin Slips! The liberal media have been searching for a shred of good news, and Republicans losing this election would fit the bill.

A recent survey from OnMessage Inc. confirms that this is a winnable race. The statewide survey of likely April general election voters showed conservative-aligned Schimel and liberal-aligned Crawford deadlocked at 38 percent each. Republicans can win, but they are guaranteed to lose if they get outspent like they did in 2023.

If resources come into the state, they must be used to inform the 1.7 million Trump voters from November 2024 that there is an election on April Fools Day, and it is no joke. Right now, though, the money isnt there, because Republican donors dont seem to care. The only major-dollar Republican activist who has even noticed this race is ever forward-looking Elon Musk, who is reportedly spending money through his super PAC to help the conservative candidate. It is a start, but other Republican donors from all over the country need to ride to the sound of the guns and engage to match the Democrats onslaught thats already begun.

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Beyond the national implications for Trump and the Republicans, Crawfords judicial record is deeply troubling. As a circuit court judge, she repeatedly released violent criminals early, including individuals who had shot people, committed domestic abuse, and even raped children. This is not someone who deserves a promotion.

She also explicitly favors removing Voter ID requirements and promotes increasing taxes. Electing her to Wisconsins highest court would constitute a direct threat to Republican control of Congress, public safety in Wisconsin and sanity in general.

Curt Anderson is a veteran of the Reagan White House, former political director of the RNC and a founder of OnMessage Inc., a Republican advertising and polling firm. Sam Kay is a Pollster at OnMessage Inc.

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Under the last presidential administration, progressive politicians made the expansion of transgender rights their raison detre. They happily marched in lockstep to President Joe Bidens executive order directing every federal agency chief to prohibit discrimination based on gender expression or identity  case law to the contrary be damned.

Now, however, those same politicians are apoplectic over the current administrations return to biological reality, the rule of law and common sense.

Leading the charge are Reps. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.), Mark Takano (D-Calif.) and Gerry Connolly (D-Va.). In a letter to acting director of the Office of Personnel Management Charles Ezell, the trio stridently assert that President Trumps executive order recognizing a government-wide two sexes policy and the accompanying memorandum guiding its implementation are unconstitutional.

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One of the three has a law degree, but that certainly doesnt bolster their cock-eyed legal conclusions.

Among its flaws, the letter cites the Supreme Courts 1996 decision in Roemer v. Evans for the proposition that government policies motivated by animus are clear violations of the Constitutions guarantee of equal protection of the laws. Roemer involved a state constitutional amendment that forbade any legislative, judicial or executive protection to gays suffering discrimination  leaving them completely without the ability to participate in the political process, in violation of the 14th Amendments Equal Protection Clause.

The presidents EO and federal directives on gender identity, in contrast, disenfranchise no one. Rather, they restore to women the guarantees of the Equal Protection Clause, motivated by the legitimate government interest in protecting their personal safety, privacy and equality. The EO simultaneously shields religious objectors to gender orthodoxy from being discriminated against for simply following the dictates of their conscience.

Whats more, the Supreme Court has never placed transgender identity in the same category as biological sex, requiring the same heightened level of judicial scrutiny. This renders any government action implicating transgender status presumptively constitutional. The court explained this in Frontiero v. Richardson (1973): [S]ince sex, like race and national origin, is an immutable characteristic determined solely by the accident of birth, the imposition of special disabilities upon the members of a particular sex because of their sex would seem to violate the basic concept of our system that legal burdens should bear some relationship to individual responsibility.'

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Unlike sex, transgender status is not immutable  something even a transgender attorney representing the ACLU had to admit under questioning from Justice Samuel Alito during oral arguments just two months ago in United States v. Skrmetti. Gender identity is a subjective, internal, malleable and often transitory sense of oneself. As such, it is an insufficient basis to expand the notion of equal protection or protection of immutable characteristics  one that would defy decades of Supreme Court jurisprudence to the contrary.

The congressional letter also cites the courts decision in 2020, Bostock v. Clayton County, which held that an employer who fires an individual merely for being gay or transgender violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act  a federal law prohibiting employment discrimination on the basis of, among other things, sex. The court in that decision did not, however, equate sex with transgender status or sexual orientation. Rather, it determined only that both were inextricably bound up with sex.

The Bostock decision has repeatedly been cited by the left to argue that the courts ruling on a federal employment law statute forbidding sex discrimination somehow magically transforms every federal law and regulation into one also forbidding gender identity discrimination. The congressmen fail to acknowledge what Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote the majority opinion  that there are indeed biological distinctions between male and female.

Without exposition or evidence, the congressmen also argue that the directive to withdraw [Bidens gender identity] regulations in a matter of days contradicts the Administrative Procedure Act.

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That APA governs the process by which federal agencies develop and issue regulations and other agency actions such as policy statements and guidances. But if these congressmen fully understood the operation of the APA, they would recognize that rules can only be amended or reversed through a subsequent agency rulemaking process.

That process is precisely what the appropriate agencies have been tasked with doing, pursuant to the EO and associated memorandum. It involves publishing a notice of proposed rulemaking  something that can easily be accomplished within 30 days, and which starts the long, detailed process set forth in the APA of recission through new rule construction.

In their quixotic and legally faulty letter, the congressmen are tilting at windmills. What the current administration is doing is legal, common-sense and long overdue.

Sarah Parshall Perry is a senior legal fellow for The Heritage Foundations Meese Center for Legal and Judicial Studies.

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In no time at all, speaking a language other than English in public is going to feel like an act of political defiance. On Friday morning, The Wall Street Journal first reported that the president would sign an executive order to make English the official language of the United States. The White House later confirmed the move, and as NBC News notes, its the first time in history the country would have an official language.

At first glance, Donald Trumps move might seem like common sense. The vast majority of Americans speak English: According to the most recent census data, 78.3% of the country speaks only English at home. That the U.S. is an English-dominant country cannot be disputed. But the order would bring with it more insidious consequences that demonstrate Trump and his allies mean to enforce a restrictive definition of what it means to be American.

Because this executive order isnt just about acknowledging the dominance of English. It would also rescind the federal mandate that requires federal agencies and other recipients of federal funding to provide language assistance to non-English speakers. This mandate, originally issued by President Bill Clinton, ensured that millions of Americans could access government services, regardless of their primary language. CBS News reports that agencies will still be able to provide documents and services in other languages, but this order strips away the requirement to do so. In effect, it gives permission to shut out non-English speakers from services their tax dollars pay for.

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Stripping this access will make life significantly harder for millions  according to 2019 census data, approximately 8% of the country speaks English less than very well  leaving them without guaranteed access to critical information and support. Without required language access, navigating essential services will become more difficult.

Still more troubling, Trumps proposed executive order is not merely about language policy. It is also the latest move in a long American tradition of leveraging English proficiency to judge who belongs and who does not.

Throughout our history, the effort to define this country as monolingually English has coincided with efforts to exclude certain groups from full participation in society. Indigenous children were forced into boarding schools where they were punished for speaking their own languages. Spanish was banned from classrooms in the Southwest to force assimilation. During World War I, laws were passed to ban German in schools. The push for English-only policies has never been about communication; it has always been about control, about who gets to be seen as fully American and who does not.

Executive Order Alert! 



ENGLISH IS NOW THE OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF THE UNITED STATES.



America is SO BACK! pic.twitter.com/j7veShXHVt  The White House (@WhiteHouse) March 2, 2025

That sentiment was evident on Friday when ProEnglish  which bills itself as the nations leading advocate of official English but has ties to the modern anti-immigrant movement  quickly praised Trumps plan.

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The president properly responded to the disconnect that undermined Americas traditional process of immigrant assimilation. Every American should be proud of their national origin, race, native language, and customs. But without public policies that reinforce the English tie that unites us, multilingual diversity could well become the undoing of our country, said acting ProEnglish Executive Director Stephanie White.

Rhetoric that frames non-English speakers (or even bilingual and trilingual Americans) as unpatriotic infiltrators might appeal to xenophobic Americans, but it has no basis in reality. Immigrants and their children overwhelmingly learn English. One Cato Institute report from 2019 estimates that about 91 percent of immigrants in the United States between 1980 and 2010 reportedly spoke English compared with 86 percent who lived here from 1900 to 1930. While immigrants with different backgrounds are more or less likely to learn English than others, our analysis unambiguously shows that todays immigrants are more likely to learn English than immigrants in the beginning of the last century.

Yet English-only advocates continue to promote the false idea that linguistic diversity threatens national identity. They ignore the fact that the U.S. has always been multilingual; that by the 16th century, Spanish was spoken in much of the Southwest, years before English arrived; and that Indigenous languages existed here for centuries before colonization.

In addition, the U.S. is the fourth-largest Spanish-speaking country in the world, according to the Cervantes Institute, and home to more than 350 languages, according to the Census Bureau. The suggestion that the only authentic way to be American is to speak English, exclusively, ignores both history and modern reality: that America has always been polyglot.

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America has never had an official language  because we dont need one, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus posted Friday afternoon on X. Trumps plan to make English official is a direct attack on our diversity and history. Millions of Americans speak other languages, and that doesnt make them any less American.

Trumps executive order would do nothing to improve government efficiency or to help Americans. It does not even have material benefits to those who speak only English. Rather, it strips away language access protections and sends a clear message: If you dont speak English, you dont belong. The move is yet more extremist, political bullying that divides us further.

Trump can make English the official language, but language has always been fluid and evolving, shaped by the people who speak it. And in classrooms, communities and political spaces, non-English speakers have long been active participants in shaping this country. This proposed executive order cannot change that.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Despite its chest-beating rhetoric, President Trumps regime is actually brittle and fated for ineffectiveness, collapse or both.

Americans may be startled by the all-encompassing nature of the regime, but its nothing new. History has seen many examples of regimes consisting of an all-powerful leader who makes all the decisions and who is surrounded by sycophantic underlings ruling over weak institutions and using their positions as platforms for self-enrichment.

Such regimes arent just run-of-the-mill dictatorships, as dictators dont always enjoy untrammeled authority and obedience. In fact, Trumps second administration resembles totalitarian political systems characterized by omnipotent rulers who claim to know everything about the totality of human experience, who aspire to supervise, guide and mold that totality. Unsurprisingly, totalitarian leaders often have revolutionary agendas intended to change everything according to the leaders taste.

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Such regimes look strong, because omnipotent leaders usually project a powerful, masculine image as exceptionally wise, fearless and capable rulers. In reality, their systems suffer from a fatal flaw, one that also serves as the central organizing principle of the regime: hyper-centralization.

The most important contribution to the theory of totalitarian decay belongs to the brilliant Harvard University sociologist Karl Deutsch. In a seminal article published in 1954, Deutsch constructed an ideal-type totalitarian decision system. A key function of such a system is unity of command and of intelligence, which requires some machinery either to insure a single source of decision, or a set of arrangements or devices to insure consistency of decisions among several sources.

Deutsch went on to show how such a system necessarily had a limited capacity of centralized decision-making. The result is that the system would be overloaded with decisions with which it can no longer cope, except at the price of either intolerable delays or an increasing probability of potentially critical mistakes.

In the long run, according to Deutsch, there is thus perhaps inherent in every totalitarian system of government a tendency either toward overloading of its central facilities for the making of decisions, or toward an automatic corrosion of its original centralized structure and its disintegration into increasingly separate parts.

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In other words, hyper-centralized systems result in poor information, bad decisions, a weakening of the totalitarian ruler and the insubordination of subordinates  followed by the systems collapse.

Disregard the social-science jargon and notice that Deutschs model nicely describes the Trump administration. The putatively omniscient and omnipotent president occupies the apex. Just below him are a score of fulsome yes-ministers too terrified to provide him with correct information or disagree with his views. Existing governmental institutions are being eviscerated by Elon Musk, leaving their remaining employees in exceedingly vulnerable, atomized positions that encourage buck-passing, kicking the can down the road and many other dysfunctional behaviors that merely compound the structural inability of the system to make decisions efficiently and effectively.

The presidents seeming disregard for truth may be due to the fact that he is being told what he wants to hear and not what actually is. How else can one explain such whoppers as Trumps claim that Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskys popularity is at 4 percent and not, as polls show, over 50 percent? Or that Ukraine started the war with Russia? Sycophants court the rulers favor, and they know full well that being the bearers of bad (or accurate) news can get them into trouble.

Unsurprisingly, Deutschs model is also an accurate description of Vladimir Putins regime. And, as the theory leads us to expect, Putin has managed to devastate the Russian army and economy in just three years, even as he believes, perhaps sincerely, that he has made Russia great again.

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The first few weeks of Trumps rule have already involved enormous blunders. Insulting scores of allies Canadians, Mexicans, Panamanians, Europeans and Ukrainians  was surely unnecessary, even if one grants that Trumps absurd demands were justified. Appointing himself chairman of the Kennedy Center may be too much of a challenge for any president, even as it makes perfect sense in terms of his self-image as absolute ruler. Placing all his foreign policy hopes in Putins basket is asking for the Russian to make Trump look weak and silly.

Just as Putin has been a disaster for Russia, so too Trump will be a disaster for America. Fortunately, although hyper-centralization may sound like a good idea for a man who believes he is ushering in a golden age, it doesnt work. Unbeknownst to them, both Trump and Putin are fated to find permanent residence on the ash heap of history.

The other bit of good news is that, since both men are at the cores of the hyper-centralized systems they have constructed, those systems are unlikely to survive in their absence. There is hope for a restoration of democracy in America, and perhaps even in Russia.

Alexander J. Motyl is a professor of political science at Rutgers University-Newark. A specialist on Ukraine, Russia and the USSR, and on nationalism, revolutions, empires and theory, he is the author of 10 books of nonfiction, as well as Imperial Ends: The Decay, Collapse, and Revival of Empires and Why Empires Reemerge: Imperial Collapse and Imperial Revival in Comparative Perspective.

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At this years Conservative Political Action Conference, the worlds richest man waved a giant chainsaw over his head, gleefully celebrating his success at gutting aid to the worlds poorest people, along with mass firings of scientists and medical researchers, national parks and forest service employees, workers who take care of veterans and stop big banks from ripping off consumers.

At least Elon Musk is having fun.

Musk has demonstrated his ability to lie like his titular boss, President Trump, about fictional fraud. He is attacking agencies that have investigated his own business empire, which was built in part on $38 billion from taxpayers.

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Musk told his CPAC audience that hes having a good time. I doubt Musks enjoyment will provide much comfort to seniors who wont be able to get anyone on the phone to resolve issues with their social security.

Musk wasnt the only one having a good time at CPAC.

Steve Bannon praised the pardoned Jan. 6 insurrectionists in the room. Attendees cheered the confirmation of FBI Director Kash Patel and the retribution they expect him to exact on Trumps enemies. Far-right political leaders from around the world spoke in solidarity, though a French politician pulled out after Bannon threw up an alarming salute that modeled Musks so-called gesture at a January Trump rally.

The conference opened with Vice President JD Vance and closed with Trump, a symbol of Trumps dominance over the MAGA movement.

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Although Trump has demonstrated the ability to intimidate much of the Republican Party into submission, it is important to realize that Trump is not the originator or mastermind of the movement pushing America toward fascism. Long before Trump ran for office, right-wing operatives were scheming to reverse more than a century of progressive gains and return the U.S. to a pre-Civil Rights, pre-New Deal era, when the federal government was relatively powerless to protect Americans from corporate wrongdoing.

Trump is this movements tool.

Thats not to say he is not a willing and eager tool. He is bitter about deep state officials he blames for his legal problems. He seems to revel in flashy displays of king-like power, like signing executive orders to target his personal enemies, banning the use of words like climate or inclusion and making it impossible for transgender people to live their lives in peace.

It is unquestionably alarming when Trump claims that his mission to save America puts him above the law. But the threat to our country and Constitution is much broader than Trump.

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it wasnt Trump who came up with the executive orders he is so proud of signing. They came from the ideologues at Project 2025 and the America First Policy Institute. Project 2025s agenda was backed by more than 100 organizations from across the overlapping legal, corporate and Christian-nationalist right-wing movements.

When Project 2025s cruel agenda became public, Trump dishonestly disavowed it. At the time, Project 2025 architect Russ Vought wasnt bothered by the public rejection. Vought knew it was just for show  just one more lie to enable the right-wing movement to take the reins of government and forcibly re-shape the country.

Now, as director of the Office of Management and Budget, Vought is aggressively carrying out his admitted desire to put federal workers in trauma.

The Project 2025 presidency is a kind of culmination of the massive political infrastructure built with billions of dollars over the past 50 years that moved the Republican Party to the right and enabled the ideological takeover of the Supreme Court. To make matters worse, Vance is aligned with far-right billionaires and thinkers who are openly hostile to democracy.

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Political operatives have built support for their reactionary vision by encouraging Americans to be distrustful of media, cynical about government and resentful of efforts to ensure shared opportunity in an increasingly diverse country. They were assisted by a new media environment in which right-wing radio and cable networks were joined by social media and online influencers who amplified these destructive messages.

The good news amid this bleak reality is that resistance is rising to MAGA-supporting Republicans harmful assault on Americans freedom and well-being.

I believe most Americans share a different vision for our future, a country where everyone has the freedom to thrive and our government supports the common good. All of us who share that vision must make our voices heard in every way we can, now and during the long struggle ahead to reclaim our country.

The purposeful, community-building work required will be hard. It can also be fun. No chainsaws required.

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Svante Myrick is the president of People for the American Way.

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Utah cosmetologists spend months in school. But I have observed something over the past four decades as a beauty professional, salon owner and educator: The training required does not pay off.

Unless we come together and take an honest look at the growing problem, the industry will continue to slide into turmoil. I already see warning signs at the salon I operate in St. George. When beauty school graduates come to me looking for jobs, they are unprepared.

Perverse incentives, built into occupational licensing laws, make reform difficult. For far too long, Utahs regulatory regime has funneled aspiring beauty professionals into expensive programs, giving schools a near-total monopoly on training.

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This lack of competition kills accountability. Schools have a captive audience, whether or not they teach students how to succeed in the real world. Many schools offer federal taxpayer-assisted grants to lure applicants but then provide little or no meaningful education.

The rigged system gives schools a double source of income. They are compensated both through high-priced tuition and through free labor in student salons. Clients pay the school  not the student  for services rendered. The deal is especially bad for dropouts, who walk away with thousands of dollars in debt and nothing to show for it.

Now is the time to challenge the status quo and provide alternatives for people who truly want to learn cosmetology.

Salons are the answer. Businesses like mine stand ready to hire and train unlicensed hair professionals. The result would be hands-on education. New recruits would learn firsthand from veteran stylists, who could mentor them in controlled environments.

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Freeing salons to make their own personnel decisions would cost taxpayers nothing. Best of all, it would put poor and mediocre beauty schools on notice. They would have to improve to survive.

Skeptics might worry about safety. Regulators often claim that beauty schools are essential to teach sanitation and the proper handling of heat, harsh chemicals and scissors. Yet salon owners already have this knowledge and are eager to share it. They take employee training seriously and uphold high standards of cleanliness and safety because they care about their reputations.

New research from the Institute for Justice, a public interest law firm, backs up this claim. The report, Clean Cut, analyzes barbershop and nail salon health inspection outcomes in neighboring states with vastly different regulatory regimes for workers and finds no meaningful differences.

Regulators insist that hundreds of state-mandated hours are the only way to protect consumers. But salons are safe either way. This is not just theory. Apprenticeship models have proved effective in Europe for over 100 years.

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Some might point out that Utah already allows apprenticeships as an alternative to cosmetology school. But stifling rules kill flexibility and discourage participation.

One example is the way Utah traps apprentices at the same location once they begin training. Military spouses and others who need to move cannot transfer their hours. They must start over or quit.

A legislative overhaul is necessary to fix the broken system. Utah has a chance in 2025. The states Office of Professional Licensure Review spent all of last year gathering data, resulting in recommendations that could shake up the cosmetology cartel.

Lawmakers in Salt Lake City now must convert talk into action. One solution would be Senate Bill 330, which would authorize true salon apprenticeships. The measure would allow people to cut hair without an occupational license, as long as they work under the direct supervision of someone already licensed to cut hair.

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Government inspection programs, which already exist, could check for health and safety. The restaurant industry has survived this way for decades. Rather than onerously licensing chefs, health inspectors come to the places where people eat. Online review sites like Yelp add an extra layer of accountability.

Utah consumers would be in good hands when they come for haircuts or similar services. Aspiring haircutters still could enroll in expensive programs if they want. But schools should have to earn their business.
On Friday, an extraordinary exchange occurred between the president of the United States and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky. Voices were raised as President Trump and Vice President Vance accused Zelensky of disrespecting our president and the American people.

This was just the latest, albeit most dramatic, sign of the rapidly deteriorating relations between the U.S. and Ukraine.

Another occurred on Feb. 24, three years after Russia invaded Ukraine, when the U.S. voted against a United Nations General Assembly resolution condemning Russian aggression and demanding return of all Ukrainian territory.

The resolution passed by a wide margin, and this country found itself on the losing side, along with Russia, Belarus, Hungary, Nicaragua, Niger and Sudan, among others.

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The vote marked just one of a series of things the Trump administration has done to signal a new posture toward Russia and Ukraine. As the administration pursues its own peace initiative and rethinks Americas role in Europe, as well as considers how to respond to what happened on Friday, we would do well to consider why the fate of Ukraine still matters to our country.

Recall that the Ukrainians did nothing to provoke the attack, other than do what any sovereign nation would do. They have fought valiantly against overwhelming odds since then.

At first Americans were galvanized by the Russians blatant violation of international law and by the unexpected battlefield success of Ukraine. Blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag, were everywhere. Commentators compared Zelensky to Winston Churchill, Britains prime minister during World War II, rallying his nation and setting an example for the world.

America embraced the Ukrainian cause as our own and the Biden administration made clear that this nation would stand with that beleaguered nation as long as it takes. The State Department put it this way: The United States, our allies, and our partners worldwide are united in support of Ukraine in response to Russias premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified war against Ukraine. We have not forgotten Russias earlier aggression in eastern Ukraine and occupation following its unlawful seizure of Crimea in 2014.

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The United States, it said, reaffirms its unwavering support for Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders, extending to its territorial waters.

That all seems like a long time ago.

Now, as the bloody conflict in Ukraine enters its fourth year, it is not surprising that people have grown war weary. On Feb. 14, the Pew Research Center released the results of a poll showing that 30% of American adults say the U.S. is providing too much support to Ukraine in its war with Russia. Thats up slightly from 27% in November 2024, just after the U.S. presidential election.

Only 22 percent thought that we are not providing enough support. In 2022, that number was 42 percent, with only 7 percent saying too much.

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Three years is a long time to hold any nations attention for a far-away war of attrition. That may explain why the new administration wants to turn the page on Ukraine and sideline alliances in favor of big power politics.

As the Washington Post puts it, The president is spurning a post-World War II international system built to block global aggressors, embracing far older ideas of allowing military powers to build regional spheres of influence and exert dominion over their neighbors. He appears to be turning back the clock to a time in world history when countries with the biggest militaries constructed empires, demanded tribute from weaker nations and expanded their territories through coercion.

So why fuss about what is going on more than 5,000 miles from our shores?

Lets start with a simple moral proposition. As former Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black explained great nations, like great men, should keep their word.

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I dont think most Americans recall what we told Ukraine 30 years ago, in the wake of the collapse of the Soviet Union. The U.S. was very worried about what would happen to nuclear weapons left on the territory of former Soviet Republics like Ukraine. Dismantling Ukraines nuclear capacity and transferring weapons to Russia was an American priority.

But, as Brookingss Steven Pifer notes, The process (of Russian negotiations) with Ukraine proved  difficult, as Kyiv sought to achieve particular objectives before giving up what was then the third largest nuclear arsenal in the world. As talks stalled, U.S. involvement proved crucial in breaking the logjam.

In December 1994, leaders of the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Russian Federation met in Budapest, Hungary, to pledge security assurances to Ukraine in connection with its accession to the Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons  as a non-nuclear-weapons state.

The so-called Budapest Memorandum included the following: The United States of America, the Russian Federation, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine, in accordance with the principles of the CSCE [Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe] Final Act, to respect the Independence and Sovereignty and the existing borders of Ukraine.

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Professor Aldo Borda of the University of London is right to say that the meaning of the security assurances was deliberately left ambiguous. But he quotes Pifer, a former U.S. diplomat who participated in the talks that led to the memorandum, who explains, it was understood that if there was a violation, there would be a response incumbent on the US and the UK.

Pifer contends that there is an obligation on the United States that flows from the Budapest Memorandum to provide assistance to Ukraine, and [] that would include lethal military assistance.

Another thing Americans today may not understand is that almost all the money we spend to aid Ukraine stays right here.

Funds that lawmakers approve to arm Ukraine, explains The Washington Posts Marc Thiessen, are not going directly to Ukraine but are being used stateside to build new weapons or to replace weapons sent to Kyiv from U.S. stockpiles.  Almost 90 percent is going to Americans.

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At a time, he says, when both major parties are competing to win working-class votes and strengthen the U.S. manufacturing base, our military aid to Ukraine does exactly that  it is providing a major cash infusion into factories across the country that directly benefits American workers. It is also creating jobs and opportunities for local suppliers, shops, restaurants and other businesses that support the factories rolling out weapons.

Finally, every day that the fighting goes on in Ukraine is another day that the Russian military is being severely degraded and humiliated without a single active duty American military casualty, using only 5 percent of our U.S. defense budget and less than 1 percent of our total government spending.

So when we support Ukraine, we fulfill our commitments, strengthen our economy and weaken a geopolitical rival. I hope that even after Fridays unfortunate meltdown, progress toward peace can continue. And if that were not enough, we should recognize that Ukraine is fighting a just war. And as new the administration works to end the conflict, it should keep in mind why the fate of Ukraine matters here in America.

Austin Sarat is the William Nelson Cromwell Professor of Jurisprudence and Political Science at Amherst College.

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The Orlando Police Department is hosting a teen driving safety presentation on Monday.

Participants will learn about the dangers and consequences of racing, and the risks of aggressive driving.

The Orlando Police Department motors unit will be on hand to answer any traffic-related questions.

The event will start at 6:30 p.m. at the Nemours Childrens Hospital Auditorium at 6:30.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
The co-director of No Other Land called out American foreign policy while accepting the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature Film during Sundays Academy Awards.

Israeli filmmaker and journalist Yuval Abraham began his speech by calling out apartheid-like conditions in Israeli-occupied regions of the Palestinian territories.

Referring to his collaborator, Palestinian activist Basel Adra, he said, When I look at Basel, I see my brother, but we are unequal.

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We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and Basel is under military law that destroy his life and he cannot control, Abraham continued. There is a different path, a political solution. Without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people.

He then turned his attention to the United States, whose staunch military support for Israel and recent decision to freeze humanitarian aid across the world are having dire consequences in Gaza.

Basel Adra (from left), Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham accept the Documentary Feature Film award for "No Other Land." Kevin Winter via Getty Images

I have to say, as I am here, the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path, Abraham said.

Cant you see that we are intertwined? That my people can be truly safe if Basels people are truly free and safe? There is another way.

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No Other Lands win comes at a critical time for the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

The film chronicles the decades-long loop of destruction that has dominated life in the occupied West Bank.

Made by a Palestinian-Israeli collective of activists and journalists, the film earned widespread acclaim but was unable to secure distribution in the United States.

A scene from "No Other Land" featuring filmmakers Basel Adra (left) and Yuval Abraham. Anipode Films

No Other Lands Oscar comes as Israel has once again halted aid to Gaza as it pressures Hamas to agree to extend the terms of the regions tenuous ceasefire after the first phase of the pact expired on Saturday.

Hamas has called Israels actions a cheap extortion, a war crime and a blatant attack on plans to progress to the next stage of the provisional arms treatise, which began in January.

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Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority, which holds limited governing power within the West Bank, is in the midst of an aggressive crackdown on Islamic militants in the refugee city of Jenin.

While similar efforts by Israel recently displaced tens of thousands of Palestinian refugees, the Palestinian Authoritys campaign is being seen as a way to demonstrate its ability to control security in the West Bank on its own terms.

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Solve the daily Crossword

27,523 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others? 27,523 people played the daily Crossword recently. Can you solve it faster than others?
By Rollo Ross and Alicia Powell

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) -"Wicked" star Ariana Grande walked the Oscars red carpet on Sunday in a sculptural flared pink top and a tulle skirt by Schiaparelli, one of several actors to make bold fashion statements.

Whoopi Goldberg wore a shiny blue gown with a flared skirt, while British actress Yasmin Finney sported a black dress featuring feathery attachments that shot over her head.

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"A Complete Unknown" star Elle Fanning chose a lacy white gown with a full skirt and black belt, while "The Brutalist" best supporting actress nominee Felicity Jones wore a silver dress with slits and a tie around the waist.

Demi Moore, favored to win best actress for "The Substance," won a sparkling silver gown with a train flowing behind her.

Zoe Saldana, a favorite to win best supporting actress for her turn in "Emilia Perez," wore a multi-tiered maroon dress with a sparkling top and long gloves on her arms.

"A Complete Unknown" best supporting actress nominee Monica Barbaro won a voluminous high-waisted pink skirt with a sparkly top.

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Halle Berry wore a strapless silver gown with shiny small tiles running down the dress, while Gal Gadot chose a bright red gown with a full skirt.

Among the men, the black tuxedo was popular and Oscars host Conan O'Brien sported one. But Jeff Goldblum picked a white jacket and a floral purple shirt with purple flowers attached to his lapel.

"A Complete Unknown" best actor nominee Timothee Chalamet chose a lemon yellow suit and shirt.

Colman Domingo, nominated for best actor for "Sing Sing," amped up his look with a bright red jacket and shirt and black lapels to go with the black trousers.

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Comedian Bowen Yang wore a pink shirt and an embroidered leather jacket with no tie.

The creators behind the animated film "Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl" carried props related to their film, and one of the directors of the documentary feature about Ukraine, "Porcelain War," carried a small dog in his arms.

(Writing by Mary Milliken, Editing by Nick Zieminski)
OSKALOOSA, Iowa  A new classmate is coming to Oskaloosa Elementary School, who will lend a paw to students.

David is a school facility dog who is currently finishing up his training in Wyoming. In April, he will start working full-time at the school under the guidance of school counselor Samantha Doll.

Doll started working at the Oskaloosa Community School District last year after working at Blank Childrens Hospital, where she saw firsthand the impact furry-friends can have on physical and emotional wellbeing. The counselor at Oskaloosa Middle School already had a school facility dog named Rusty, and this inspired Doll to look into having one in the elementary school.

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David visited Oskaloosa Elementary for two days in mid-February, meeting his future co-workers and students. His impact was already prevalent.

Every kid that walked by and saw him just got this huge smile on their face. And it goes to show how powerful a dog can be in a school setting when a kid that maybe was just walking down the hall is now smiling and beaming because they saw a dog, said Doll.

Osky students are excited for Davids permanent return in April. Fourth graders Ellie Lang and Anistyn Clark even made David fan mail to welcome him to the school.

Things that David can do is he can help you read faster and he helps with your feelings, said Anistyn.

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Doll said studies have shown that having a nonjudgmental animal around to read aloud to can help improve reading. Having David can also improve attendance and boost self-esteem.

David will live with Doll and her family, and accompany her to school daily except on Wednesdays.

He has a work vest and when he puts on that work vest, hes in work mode. But, when hes at my house, hes just more of a playful dog, so its interesting how they trained him in that way, said Doll.

The school is already prepared for David. Each classroom has a green or red magnet with a dog icon on it. The magnets indicate whether David is allowed to be with all of the students in that classroom or if he should avoid that class because a student may have a dog allergy.

Iowa news

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Mar. 3OTHELLO  An Othello man was arraigned Feb. 26 in federal court in the Eastern District of Washington on 11 counts of possession or production of material with sexually explicit images of children, extortion and interstate communication of a threat.

Andres Burgos-Silva, 24, was arrested Feb. 25 by Othello Police Department officers and special agents with Homeland Security Investigations. He had been arrested in November 2023 on charges related to possessing materials with sexually explicit images of children, among other charges. Othello Police Chief Dave Rehaume said in a separate interview that the initial investigation, in part, led to federal charges.

Rehaume said investigators have not found any Othello victims.

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According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Eastern District of Washington, OPD detectives learned that Burgos-Silva allegedly contacted several minors through social media, claiming to have explicit photos of them and threatening to release pictures unless the youths sent him sexually explicit images. In an earlier interview, OPD Detective Sergeant Brent McFarlane said that is a frequent tactic.

Child predators use fake names and profiles, as well as information like location data, to contact and exploit children and teens. McFarlane and fellow OPD officers teach classes in the Othello School District designed to make students aware of risks online and how to avoid them. McFarlane said he tells students a predator may send out 1,000 contacts and only needs one young person to respond.

The focus is on social media for its vulnerability to exploitation, but McFarlane said predators use any access to children they can find, including video games.

"If there's any platform a predator can access, they're using it," he said.

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Rehaume said parental supervision is key to preventing similar crimes.

"This began with one parent taking action by closely monitoring their child's cellphone use,' he wrote in a statement.

The parent reported the activity to local law enforcement agencies, who, in turn, contacted the OPD, Rehaume said.

McFarlane said he recommends the Washington State Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, WA Internet Crimes Against Children  ICAC Conference as a resource for parents and adults looking for ideas and information.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children has a tipline accessible through the WICAC website to report cases of suspected child predators. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
MAYFIELD HEIGHTS, Ohio (WJW)  A 12-year-old boy who was scammed out of nearly $200 while trying to buy a guitar was helped by local officers to get the instrument he had always wanted.

According to a Facebook post from the Mayfield Heights Police Department, 12-year-old Artem reported to Officer Mark Sember on Wednesday that he got an email from someone he knew saying a former teacher was relocating and willing to donate musical instruments for free.

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According to police, the email included photos of the instruments that were available and said he would only need to pay for shipping.

Since Artem recognized the persons email, he thought it was legitimate, police said. Artem has always wanted a guitar.

According to police, Artem asked the scammer about an Eric Clapton edition Martin guitar. He was told it would cost $220 to ship.

Artem said he didnt have that kind of money, so the scammer came down in price to $185, police said. They agreed on that price.

What small town in Ohio was named most charming, according to HGTV

According to police, after making the payment on PayPal, Artem still did not hear from the seller and learned he was a victim of a scam.

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When Sember learned about the victims situation, he and his coworkers all pitched in to raise $280.

Officer Sember then went to Guitar Center, where a customer generously donated another $45 after hearing about Artems story. The store also offered a discount on a guitar for $325.

Artem and his father stopped by the police department Friday to thank Officer Sember and drop off donuts to the station.

Artem was overjoyed to receive the unexpected gift, police said. This kind act restored Artems faith in humanity, which is evident by the smile on his face.

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In a world where kindness often seems overshadowed by negativity, stories like these shine brightly, reminding us of the compassion and generosity that exist in our communities, the Facebook post said. Thank you, Officer Sember, for being such an amazing example of what the Mayfield Heights Police Department is all about.

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NEW YORK (AP)  A woman who owned a New York City day care center where a toddler died after ingesting fentanyl has been sentenced to 45 years in prison after pleading guilty to federal drug charges.

Grei Mendez, 37, dropped her head into her crossed arms in anguish as Judge Jed S. Rakoff announced the sentence that triggered sobs among Mendezs family and the mother whose 22-month-old child, Nicholas Feliz-Dominici, died in September 2023.

Rakoff had previously given the same sentence to Mendezs husband, Felix Herrera-Garcia, after he pleaded guilty to drug charges and causing bodily harm related to the death. The couple each faced a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life for their crimes.

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Mendez had pleaded guilty to drug charges including conspiracy to distribute narcotics resulting in death.

Before the sentence was imposed, she apologized to the families of children who attended the Divino Nino day care that she operated out of a Bronx apartment where the couple stored and packaged narcotics.

I do want all to know it was an accident, she said through an interpreter. I am very sorry. I hope that someday I may be forgiven.

When the poisoning occurred on Sept. 15, 2023, Feliz-Dominici was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he died. Three other children exposed to the fentanyl at the day care survived after medics administered the overdose-reversing drug Narcan.

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Police found a brick of fentanyl stored on top of playmats for the children, along with equipment often used to package drugs, as well as packages of fentanyl beneath a trap door in a play area.

Both of Feliz-Dominici's parents spoke at the sentencing, with the child's mother saying it was not possible to forgive Mendez and the father describing the lasting pain, saying: We're living, but we're not alive.

Rakoff cited the emotions he once felt when his older brother was murdered in cold blood, but he added that the glory of the law is not to ignore emotions but to put them in broader perspective.

He said Mendez had chosen to put the welfare of her own children and her husband above the welfare of the families and their children that became customers of her day care business.

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In a presentence brief, a defense attorney submitted proof that Mendez had suffered trauma herself as a child. Prosecutors urged a lengthy sentence, saying she ignored clear warning signs that the babies were becoming seriously ill and took no action to call for lifesaving medical intervention.

And after tragedy struck, she lied to law enforcement and destroyed evidence in an effort to protect herself and her co-conspirators from their culpability in the death of one baby and poisoning of three others, they wrote.

In a release, Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said Mendez put babies as young as 8 months old in harm's way as they slept, played and ate in a room where over 11 kilograms of fentanyl was hidden underneath their feet.
The top three defendants in a local $22 million healthcare fraud case have reached a plea deal with the federal government.

The owners and founders of Hertel and Brown Physical Therapy have changed their plea before a federal judge Monday morning.

All parties are now pleading guilty to wire and healthcare fraud.

Aaron Hertel, 46, and 48-year-old Michael Brown both pleaded guilty to count one of the federal indictments handed to the business back in 2021.

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Defendants in Hertel & Brown case reach plea deal

In doing so, the recommended sentence agreed upon with the plea for conspiracy to commit wire and health care fraud is six years in prison, with three years of supervised release to follow the sentence served along with restitution that has yet to be determined, and fines.

The business, its owners, and employees have been accused by the federal government of attempting to overbill insurance companies as well as Medicare and Medicaid from January 2007 through October of 2021.

United States attorneys outlined evidence at Mondays change of plea hearing.

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That included the use of unlicensed employees giving unlicensed treatments to patients, who were billed as if a physical therapist conducted those treatments.

They also allegedly circumvented Medicare by never billing customer care as group treatment, despite many patients being worked on at the same time.

FBI raid Hertel & Brown offices for reported insurance fraud

According to prosecutors, an alleged documented exchange between Hertel & Brown acknowledged the need for what they called creative billing to help the business.

As part of the plea, Hertel and Brown also forfeit their interest in their business, the property, and any equipment that may be in it, as well as a property in Florida.

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Sentencing will take place on August 28. Until then, both Hertel and Brown remain free on bond.

Meanwhile, three of the 21 people involved are still heading to trial with jury selection starting Tuesday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
President Donald Trump campaigned on a promise to deport millions of undocumented immigrants residing in the United States, but so far, the pace of deportations has held steady compared to last year, according to a CNN analysis of deportation flight data.

The data, provided by Thomas Cartwright of the advocacy group Witness at the Border, which tracks publicly available information on ICE flights, reveals that the number of deportation flights so far are similar to those under the Biden administration.

Trump administration officials have put a spotlight on their immigration enforcement efforts, frequently sharing images of arrests as well as migrants boarding flights to be sent back to their home countries.

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The Trump administration has also continued to remove people across the US southern border to Mexico as part of its implementation of strict asylum restrictions, fueling the number of removals even though they dont occur on flights. A Homeland Security official told CNN that the number of flights was slightly higher, at 145 flights. The passenger count on each flight during the Biden and Trump administrations was not immediately available.

The Trump administrations stated goals to detain and deport undocumented immigrants on a large scale have met the on-the-ground realities of limited personnel and resources.

In an apparent workaround, the United States started using military aircraft to return recent border crossers back to their countries of origin only days into the Trump administration. The military flights supplemented the regular Immigration and Customs Enforcement flights, but at a greater cost.

While there are slight changes in the countries receiving flights, the pace is relatively stable between 2024 and 2025. The majority of flights also continue to go to Latin America.

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Since Trump took office, the United States has struck new agreements with multiple countries to accept third-country migrants  and in the case of Venezuela, restarted deportation flights.

According to the data, there are 14 countries that are new for this time period in 2025, compared with the same time last year, including Brazil, Panama, and India.

The top three destinations for repatriation flights were Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador  in line with previous administrations.

In early February, Guatemala pledged a 40% increase in deportation flights carrying Guatemalans and migrants of other nationalities from the United States, President Bernardo Arevalo announced during a press conference with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

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The data, however, shows a slight decrease so far in flights to Guatemala and Honduras, and an increase in flights to Ecuador and Colombia.

The use of military aircraft for repatriation flights has sparked feuds between the US and other countries  most notably, with Colombia. In the early days of the Trump administration, a public spat between the US and Colombia almost resulted in a damaging trade war. The two countries later reached an agreement.

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By Mohammad Yunus Yawar and Mushtaq Ali

KABUL/PESHAWAR, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistani and Afghan security forces clashed on Monday at the recently shuttered main border crossing between the two countries, killing at least one combatant and injuring several, officials said.

The conflict erupted on the first working day of the holy Islamic month of Ramadan, when food imports from Pakistan usually peak in Afghanistan, which is facing a humanitarian and hunger crisis. A 10-day-old closure of the Torkham border point has stranded thousands of trucks filled with essential goods.

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The Taliban-run Afghan Interior Ministry said on Monday the latest firing took place overnight and that one Taliban fighter had been killed and two injured. Two Pakistani security officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that members of the Pakistani security forces had been wounded.

Pakistan's foreign office did not respond to a request for comment.

The neighbouring countries have a strained relationship, with Pakistan saying that several Islamist militant attacks that have occurred there have been launched from Afghan soil - a charge the Taliban deny. Pakistani military aircraft carried out strikes that killed dozens on Afghan territory in December.

Abdul Mateen Qaniee, the Afghan interior ministry spokesperson, said that this week's clashes had been resolved but did not comment on whether the border crossing would now reopen. It has been shut since February 21.

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The latest closure, which chamber of commerce officials said was sparked by a dispute over the construction of a border-area outpost, has left 5,000 trucks stranded and traders alarmed at rising losses.

"This is a very serious issue and is badly affecting trade between the two countries," said Ziaul Haq Sarhadi, director of the Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce.

The Torkham crossing is the main transit artery for travellers and goods between Pakistan and landlocked Afghanistan. Trade between the two countries was worth over $1.6 billion in 2024, according to Pakistan's foreign office.

Yousaf Afridi, president of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries for Pakistan's Khyber district where the Torkham crossing is located, said the closure had caused at least $15 million in losses.

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It could exacerbate the challenges confronting the Afghan economy, which has teetered near crisis since the Taliban took over in 2021, leading to a cut in development aid and sanctions affecting the banking sector that has hampered businesses.

Millions of Afghans are at risk of hunger and around half the population needs humanitarian assistance to survive, according to the United Nations.

(Reporting by Mushtaq Ali in Peshawar and Mohammad Yunus Yawar in Kabul; writing by Saad Sayeed and Charlotte Greenfield; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Arturo Holmes

Last nights Oscars made history with the film No Other Land winning Best Documentary Feature, marking the first-ever Academy Award for a Palestinian filmmaker, co-directors Basel Adra and Hamdan Ballal. The two accepted the award on stage alongside their Israeli co-directors, journalist Yuval Abraham and filmmaker Rachel Szor.

No Other Lands win is additionally noteworthy given the difficulty its faced reaching an audience in the United States: Despite being the years highest-grossing Oscar-nominated documentary, it has yet to find an American distributor, which the filmmakers have categorized as completely political.

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Abrahams speech highlighted the dynamic of Israelis and Palestinians working together on the project, echoed in a directors statement released alongside the film: Were making this film together, a Palestinian-Israeli group of activists and filmmakers, because we want to stop the ongoing expulsion of the community of Masafer Yatta, and resist the reality of Apartheid we were born into  from opposite, unequal sides.

Arab women and children carry their possessions to begin a three-mile hike through no man's land to the Arab lines in Tulkarim.

What a Palestinian-American Wants You To Know About Dehumanization

Writer Hala Alyan unpacks our responsibility to examine the narratives weve been exposed to with a critical lens.

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The film centers on Israeli destruction and displacement in Adras hometown of Masafer Yatta in the occupied West Bank. In February 2025, Adra posted videos on X/Twitter of demolition of homes and water tanks in Masafer Yatta. Just days ago, Amnesty International condemned the imminent risk of state-backed settler attacks, as well as home demolitions, restrictions on access to land and illegal settlement expansion by the Israeli authorities in one of the 12 Palestinian communities that make up Masafer Yatta. And according to CNN, Masafer Yatta residents were attacked by Israeli settlers accompanied by Israeli forces hours before No Other Lands win at the Oscars.

During his speech, Abraham also condemned the United States role in obstructing peace. Since taking office, Donald Trump has loudly proclaimed his intentions to take over Gaza, blocking Palestinians from returning, which Adra and Abraham have previously called shocking, irresponsible and immoral, criticizing Trumps plans as ethnic cleansing.

Outlets including Slate noted that the films acceptance speech was among the only political moments of the awards ceremony. Read the full speech below.

Basel Adra: Thank you to the Academy for the award. Its such a big honor for the four of us and everybody who supported us for this documentary.

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About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope to my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I am living now, always fearing violence, home demolitions, forced displacement that my community, Masafer Yatta, is facing every day. No Other Land reflects the harsh reality we have been enduring for decades and still resist as we call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.

Yuval Abraham: We made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together our voices are stronger. We see each other. The atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people, which must end; the Israeli hostages brutally taken in the crime of Oct. 7, which must be freed.

When I look at Basel, I see my brother. But we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law and Basel is under military laws that destroy lives, that he cannot control. There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people.

And I have to say, as I am here, the foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path. Why? Cant you see that we are intertwined? That my people can be truly safe if Basels people are truly free and safe? There is another way. Its not too late for life, for the living.

Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue

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TOPEKA (KSNT)  Topeka is getting a new Panda Express with a possible opening date set for later this year.

27 News reached out to Panda Express this week to find out when the company will be opening a new location on the north side of the Capital City. A Panda Express spokeswoman said a new location is in the works at 801 Northwest 25th Street near the north Topeka Dillons and Walmart stores.

Were excited to be coming to the Topeka community, and can share move details as we approach the official store opening. Right now the new Topeka location is tentatively slated for winter 2025. Panda Express spokeswoman

New photography studio set to open at West Ridge Mall

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The Panda Express spokeswoman said work to install this new location is still in its early phases with the timeline of opening the restaurant subject to change. The building was the former home of a Community Bank location.

Panda Express currently has more than 20 locations in the Sunflower State and hundreds more across the nation. The company currently operates one other established spot in Topeka at 1920 Southwest Wanamaker Road.

Customers can expect to find American-Chinese fast-food dishes at Panda Express restaurants. You can learn more about what Panda Express has to offer by heading to the companys website.

New Topeka diner specializing in smash burgers, reuben sandwiches opens in March

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For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

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A local daycare is under investigation for allegations of child abuse. A parent said their baby came home from the daycare with bruises and injuries a doctor referred to as suspicious.

Channel 9s Tina Terry spoke with those parents, as well as the Wadesboro interim police chief, about the incident.

The first thing I thought is somebody needs to be locked up, said father Logan Jordan.

He explained this was the first thing that came to his mind when he saw bruises on his 8-month-old son Colson.

Jordan said Colson attended Cs and Ts Childcare on Thursday. The babys mother then picked him up that afternoon and noticed bruises while bathing him later that day.

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As soon as she noticed, I came over there. The first thing we did was take him to Wadesboro police, and they took pictures and got the report. And we left there and went to the Anson County hospital, said Jordan.

In addition to bruising, the hospital reported that Colson had a contusion on his lower back and an abrasion around his neck. The doctor who examined Colson called the injuries suspicious.

I was mad. I was furious. I wanted somebody to be locked up on the spot, Jordan expressed.

Channel 9 reviewed records from the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education. It showed an unannounced inspection in May 2024 to investigate a concern of inappropriate discipline. However, the allegations were unsubstantiated.

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ALSO READ: Former daycare worker accused of assaulting 7 children appears in court

During another visit in February 2024, inspectors confirmed sufficient information to determine child maltreatment.

Jordan said he hopes the current police investigation will uncover what happened to his child.

You just dont want it to be swept under the rug, Jordan said.

Channel 9 visited the daycare Monday afternoon; however, the owner said he needed to check with his attorney before discussing the matter.

On Wednesday, the daycare released a statement addressing the allegations, saying:

Cs & Ts Child Care, Inc. is deeply concerned for the health and safety of all children and takes any allegation of abuse of a child extremely serious. Cs and Ts Childcare is fully cooperating with all law enforcement and regulatory investigations and inquiries.

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Cs and Ts is deeply disturbed by the numerous photographs of injuries posted by the childs mother on social media.

Cs and Ts management has voluntarily provided to investigating authorities onsite video from multiple camera angles that fully captures from the time the mother dropped off her child to the time the child was picked up by the mother at 12:54 pm on the date of reporting.

Following careful review, the video showed absolutely no evidence of abuse or accidental injury at Cs and Ts Child Care. The mother reported the injuries later that day at 9:07 pm.

We also contacted the NC DHHS about this latest incident. A spokesperson said the agency was aware of the concerns and is considering its next steps.

The Wadesboro Police Department is also investigating and has even reached out to the SBI for help.

VIDEO: Former daycare worker accused of assaulting 7 children appears in court
















BELCHERTOWN, Mass. (WWLP)  Parents and educators plan to hold a rally on Monday night in protest of the school districts $2.1 million deficit.

Police investigate serious crash on West Street in Belchertown

The deficit would lead to the elimination of approximately 25 positions, the closure of a school, and increased fees. This is in addition to more than a dozen positions that have already been cut this school year.

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A protest will take place outside of Lawrence Memorial Hall at 6:00 p.m. The school district is not affiliated with this rally.

Its up to us to come together in collective action to demand more for Belchertown

schools, said Fran Frederick, President of the Belchertown Education Association. The

preliminary plan we received last week is not in the best interest of the residents of

Belchertown. Should that financial plan be implemented, our ability to continue to

provide high quality education to the children of Belchertown is at risk for years to come.

The integrity of our public schools is at stake. There needs to be another solution.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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A woman was killed in a crash while riding as a passenger on a motorcycle in East Westwood early Monday, according to Cincinnati police.

Police said in a news release that officers responded around 12:31 a.m. to investigate the crash at the 2300 block of Westwood Northern Boulevard.

A 24-year-old man was westbound on a 2012 Harley Davidson motorcycle approaching McHenry Avenue when he lost control, struck the curb and veered off the roadway, police said.

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Both the driver and his passenger, 30-year-old Catherine Reid Duffy, were thrown from the motorcycle. According to police and the Hamilton County Coroner's Office, Duffy died from her injuries at the scene.

The driver, whose identity has not been released, was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center with injuries that are not considered life-threatening.

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact the Cincinnati Police Department's traffic unit at 513-352-2514.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati motorcycle crash leaves passenger dead, driver injured
CANTON, N.Y. (WWTI)  The SUNY Canton Veterinary Science Technology Program is caring for and treating numerous dogs who were taken into custody by St. Lawrence County law enforcement because of an animal cruelty investigation, according to the college.

SUNY Canton says the project is a collaboration between the college and the St. Lawrence County District Attorneys office. Five dogs are now under the care of Veterinary Science Technology Program instructors and students and three are available for adoption.

The worlds most famous sled dog race is longer than ever. Heres a look at Iditarod, by the numbers

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Students are in charge of the daily feeding, walking and any medication administration for the dogs, which are housed in our kennel facility in the Newell Veterinary Science Technology Center building, said Veterinary Science Technology Program Director Dr. Wendy Kuceyeski. They will also assist in anesthetic monitoring during spay and neuter procedures that are done by our faculty.

Kuceyeski mentioned that there are two Great Pyrenees mixed breeds available for adoption, as well as one Great Pyrenees/Pit Bull crossbred.

We are proud to assist the District Attorneys Office and the community in caring for these animals until they are able to find loving homes, Kuceyeski added.

The Latest: From small dogs to big cats, a day inside Brazils wild Carnival parties

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The Veterinary Science Technology program has traditionally collaborated with many local animal shelters to provide spaying and neutering treatments, as well as immunizations, for roughly 100 dogs and cats each year says the college.

I want to thank SUNY Canton and the Veterinary Science Technology Program for providing services imperative to ensuring the health and welfare of these rescued animals, said St. Lawrence County District Attorney Gary Pasqua.

Oswego County Health Department announces rabies clinics

Those interested in dog adoption should contact Friends 4 Pound Paws in Gouverneur at friends4poundpaws@gmail.com or 315-842-7297.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWTI - InformNNY.com.
Mar. 2---- A Paynesville man suffered non-life-threatening injuries in a two-car collision on Highway 23 near

mid-day Saturday.

According to a report from the

Roberto Altamirano Lopez, 19, was taken to CentraCare Rice Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after a crash on Highway 23 at 2:51 p.m. Saturday.

Lopez was driving a Ford F-150 northbound on Highway 23 near Spicer when he collided with a Chevrolet Silverado driven by Daniel Martin Ruter, 48, of Spicer, who was also northbound. Ruter was not injured in the crash.

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Both parties were wearing seat belts at the time of the incident, and no alcohol was involved in the crash.

Responding to the call was the

Spicer Fire Department, Spicer First Responders and CentraCare Ambulance.
ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ)  Pennsylvanians looking to obtain a REAL ID ahead of the upcoming federal deadline will have a dedicated opportunity this month.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is hosting a special REAL ID event at the Altoona Driver License Center, located at 1738A 9th Ave., on March 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event aims to help residents apply for a REAL ID before the May 7, enforcement date.

While obtaining a REAL ID is optional in Pennsylvania, beginning in May, a REAL ID-compliant license or another federally accepted form of identification, such as a passport or military ID, will be required to board domestic commercial flights, enter military bases, and access federal facilities.

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To apply, residents must bring several forms of documentation, including proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, two proofs of current Pennsylvania address, and documentation for any legal name changes if applicable. A full list of required documents is available on the Pennsylvania government website.

Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters.

For those planning to attend, PennDOT encourages early preparation to ensure they have the necessary paperwork.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
(WHTM) A Pennsylvania lawmaker introduced a legislative package that would strengthen Pennsylvanias cybersecurity.

With cyber threats on the rise, Senator Kristin Phillips-Hill (R-York) introduced a legislative package to improve Pennsylvanias information technology (IT) security, protect state assets, and prevent data breaches.

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Cyber threats are escalating, and Pennsylvania must act now to safeguard personal data and critical systems, Phillips-Hill said. These bills will strengthen cybersecurity measures, enhance oversight, and improve government responsiveness to digital threats.

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Some of the key legislative measures in the package include requiring NIST standards for IT contracts, establishing Pennsylvanias Chief Information Officer as a cabinet-level position, mandating updated security standards, having biannual audits by leading cybersecurity firms, and creating a cybersecurity committee.

The package would also criminalize ransomware possession and use and prohibit state agencies from paying ransom demands, per the release.

Similar to some federal agencies, social media app TikTok would be banned on state-owned devices.

We cannot afford to be reactive on cybersecurity. These bills take a decisive, proactive approach to protecting taxpayer dollars, personal information, and the Commonwealths IT infrastructure, Phillips-Hill added.

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(WHTM) Two Pennsylvania lawmakers are proposing a bill to provide students with free meals and eliminate school meal debt.

Representatives Emily Kinkead (D-Allegheny) and Nathan Davidson (D-Dauphin) are reintroducing the bill to combat the growing number of children living with food insecurity in Pennsylvania.

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According to the two lawmakers, roughly 500,000 children in Pennsylvania live with food insecurity, and families owe approximately $80 million in school meal debt.

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While the federal government runs a free school lunch program, some families make too much to qualify but still struggle to provide children with meals, per the representatives.

There have been numerous studies that show the effects of having nutritious meals have on education, the lawmakers stated. Students are able to focus on the lessons being taught and are able to better retain that knowledge, compared to students who are hungry.

Eight states in the U.S. have made school lunches free for students, according to the Pennsylvania Cancel Lunch Debt Coalition.

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Mar. 3WILKES-BARRE  Sen. Dan Laughlin, R-Erie, this week introduced Senate Bill 67 to fully repeal Pennsylvania's prohibition on Sunday hunting, transferring full authority over wildlife management decisions to the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau (PFB) has now joined in supporting the effort, provided agricultural concerns are addressed in the bill.

"For eight years, I have fought to remove this outdated prohibition and expand opportunities for hunters," Laughlin said. "Through open dialogue and collaboration, we've built a consensus. I am pleased that the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau now fully supports this effort and is calling for its passage."

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Chris Hoffman, president of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, said the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau proudly supports Laughlin's bill  calling it a key piece of legislation developed in collaboration between wildlife groups and the agricultural community to improve wildlife management and address deer overpopulation.

"These measures will help farmers better control deer populations, protect their crops, and support the long-term sustainability of agriculture in our state," Hoffman said.

Laughlin's bill would have Pennsylvania join the 39 states that have no limits on Sunday hunting. While Act 107 of 2019 permitted hunting on three Sundays, a full repeal is necessary to provide greater access for sportsmen and women, align Pennsylvania with neighboring states, and support conservation efforts.

"The Sunday hunting prohibition is one of the last remnants of our commonwealth's antiquated 'Blue Laws,'" Laughlin said. "Hunting is a longstanding tradition, a vital conservation tool, and an economic driver for rural communities. It's time we fully eliminate this restriction."

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Laughlin emphasized that the bill's support is tied directly to measures addressing agricultural concerns, including solutions to mitigate wildlife-related crop damage. The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau's endorsement of this legislation marks a significant milestone in the effort to modernize Pennsylvania's hunting laws.

"The Pennsylvania Farm Bureau has been a key partner in ensuring that this legislation addresses the concerns of our agricultural community," Laughlin said. "Their willingness to collaborate and seek balanced solutions has helped shape this bill into a policy that benefits both farmers and hunters."

Andy Bater, PFB state board director and chairman of PFB's Wildlife and Fisheries Committee, said delegates representing Pennsylvania Farm Bureau members voted to remove their opposition to Sunday hunting, contingent upon the implementation of significant statutory and regulatory changes addressing crop damage from wildlife and hunting management on farmland.

Additionally, expanding Sunday hunting opportunities would provide greater access for individuals with disabilities who rely on companions to assist them in the field. For many, Sunday is the only available day to participate in the sport.

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Commonwealth Financing Authority seeks feedback on new program

Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Secretary Rick Siger this week announced that the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) is seeking public input for the new Mixed-Use Revitalization Program, which will provide grants and loans to boost mixed-use development across Pennsylvania.

The CFA is seeking feedback on the program's draft guidelines from commercial or mixed-use developers.

The public comment form and draft guidelines are available now through March 5.

"Strong communities mean a strong economy, and we welcome feedback for the Mixed-Use Revitalization Program," said Secretary Siger. "Economic development is a team sport, and input from the public will ensure this program has meaningful impact across our Commonwealth."

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Feedback submitted by community members will help DCED focus and finalize the development of the Mixed-Used Revitalization Program, which was established under Act No. 54 of 2024 and is administered through the CFA.

The program provides grants and loans to assist with increasing mixed-use development across the Commonwealth, leveraging private and public resources, and fostering sustainable partnerships committed to addressing community needs.

When the program is finalized, developers will be able to apply for either a grant or a loan for eligible projects.

Mixed-Use Redevelopment Projects are community revitalization projects that promote economic growth and include commercial assets. Projects may also include residential development opportunities. Examples include but are not limited to existing and former malls and similar commercial properties.

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Eligible projects must:

Be situated on at least 15 acres of land.

Contain at least 200,000 square feet of proposed development that has not received a certificate of occupancy as of July 11, 2024.

Be zoned for the planned end use.

AG Sunday celebrates National Consumer Protection Week

During National Consumer Protection Week, March 3-7, the Office of Attorney General will highlight and share information about their year-round efforts to protect consumer rights, and help people learn to detect, report, and avoid scams.

The AG will also share consumer protection tips on social media throughout the week, including overviews of the Bureau of Consumer Protection's work this past year, information about the office's Civil Rights Enforcement Section and Health Care Section, and tips on purchasing a used car, how to identify and prevent scams.

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"One of the core functions of the Office of Attorney General is to protect consumers," Ag Sunday said. "During National Consumer Protection Week, I want all Pennsylvanians to understand the resources available to them if they believe they may be a victim of fraud. Last year, our office directly helped consumers save and recover more than $16 million, and we will continue to fight for Pennsylvanians."

In 2024, the Office of Attorney General's Bureau of Consumer Protection saved consumers more than $11.8 million through mediation efforts and secured $4.8 million in restitution through legal actions.

Attorney General Sunday highlighted a few of the consumer protection actions taken in the past year:

Distributed more than $800,000 to victims of Vision Property Management after consumers were unlawfully evicted from their homes or vacated them after unlawful "rent-to-own" contracts were not upheld.

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Returned nearly $3 million to consumers through settlements with Community Loans of America and Progressive Leasing following earlier settlement agreements.

Data breaches continue to become more common so the Office of Attorney General launched an online portal for companies to report data breaches that impact Pennsylvanians.

$35,000 was returned to victims of the alleged unlawful billing, leasing, and debt collection practices of A.R. Building Company, Inc. The lawsuit alleged that A.R. Building arbitrarily inflated repair costs that the company billed to tenants for alleged damage to apartments.

A settlement with SoLo Funds, Inc., a California based-lending platform that solicited tips and donations from potential borrowers, resulted in $158,000 in restitution to be distributed to consumers. Other consumers also received a write off of their total debt to SoLo funds.

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A settlement with Equifax over a coding error that lowered many consumers' credit score netted Pennsylvania $470,000 after impacting more than 51,000 Pennsylvania borrowers.

If you believe you were harmed by a business, you can file a complaint with the Bureau of Consumer Protection in a variety of ways, go to: https://www.attorneygeneral.gov/submit-a-complaint/consumer-complaint/.

Or call the hotline: 1-800-441-2555

Or email: scams@attorneygeneral.gov

Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered a halt to offensive cyber operations against Russia, which likely indicates that US President Donald Trumps team is attempting to establish a dialogue with the Kremlin.

Source: European Pravda with reference to The New York Times

Details: NYT sources, one of whom is a current official and two are former officials, said the order is believed to have been issued before the meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump at the White House, which ended in a spat.

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The exact scope and duration of the Department of Defenses order are unclear, as the line between offensive and defensive cyber operations is often blurred.

The NYT noted that maintaining access to Russian networks for information gathering is important for the US, particularly for understanding Putins intentions in the context of talks.

Former officials stated that the cessation of offensive cyber operations against Russia is a risky gamble for Washington, as it is unclear whether Russia will also cease its hybrid operations against the US and European states to which the US has provided significant support in countering cyber interference.

During Trumps first presidential term, cyber command was granted additional powers, allowing it to conduct offensive cyber operations without direct approval from the president.

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One such operation involved a "check" of Russias power grid, which was likely intended as a serious warning to Russia about the consequences if it were to harm US critical infrastructure. Media outlets, including the NYT, have reported on this operation.

At the time, Trump called the leak of the information online "treason", but his former aides later commented that he was very concerned about how it would affect his relations with the Russian leader.

Background: At the end of February, five former US defence secretaries called the dismissal of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and other senior officers by President Donald Trump reckless and urged Congress to block any approval of their successors.

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March 2 (UPI) -- The Trump administration has ordered the United States to end offensive cyber operations targeting Russia, part of an effort to draw Russian President Vladimir Putin into talks on ending the war in Ukraine, sources said Sunday.

It's not clear how long the orders will be in effect, but are expected to last for the foreseeable future, according to reporting by The Record.

The orders were given by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prior to a high profile argument in the Oval Office that erupted Friday between President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over future funding to fight Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, according to The New York Times.

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Together with the U.S.'s European allies, the Biden administration was widely supportive of Zelensky's efforts to fend off Russian forces, and made billions of dollars in aid and military assistance available to Kiev, but that has shifted under the Trump administration, leaving the U.S.'s intentions about Ukrainian assistance unclear.

Hegseth has said the cyber offensive stand down is part of an overall risk assessment that will determine what potential threats exist in Russia.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth holds his closing press conference at the end of defense ministers' meetings at NATO headquarters, in Brussels, Belgium, on Thursday on February 13. Hegseth's was the first visit to NATO by a member of the new Trump administration. Photo by NATO/UPI

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Sunday that European allies would form a "coalition of the willing" to continue to defend Ukraine in its battle against the ongoing Russian incursion.

The scope of the U.S.'s cyber operations stand down is not clear, but officials have said knowing Russia's goals in Ukraine are critical to understanding Putin's intentions entering into potential talks with the U.S., especially with regard to Moscow's cyber espionage efforts.

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Hegseth's orders are thought to be part of a broader effort to re-evaluate the U.S. role in the conflict and its operations against Russia, but are thought to represent a gamble.

The cyber offensive stand down does not apply to U.S. intelligence gathering operations.

Trump has blamed Ukraine for the Russian invasion and called Zelensky a dictator who is "not ready for peace."
The Pentagon is sending about 3,000 more active-duty troops to the U.S.-Mexico border as President Donald Trump seeks to clamp down on illegal immigration and fulfill a central promise of his campaign, U.S. officials said Saturday.

His defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, has ordered elements of a Stryker brigade combat team and a general support aviation battalion for the mission, the Pentagon announced. The forces will arrive along the nearly 2,000-mile border in the coming weeks.

The Defense Departments statement did not specify the size of the deployment, but it was put at about 3,000 by the officials, who were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity.

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The Strykers are medium-armored wheeled personnel carriers.

Already, about 9,200 U.S. troops in total are at the southern border, including 4,200 deployed under federal orders and about 5,000 National Guard troops under the control of governors.

The new troops will reinforce and expand current border security operations to seal the border and protect the territorial integrity of the United States, the Pentagon said.

Trump is determined to expand the militarys role in his effort to shut down the border and send detained migrants back to their home countries.

Military personnel have been sent to the border almost continuously since the 1990s to help address migration, drug trafficking and transnational crime.

The Washington Post first reported on the new deployment.
Its been almost eight months since Gavin Peterson died of organ failure due to severe malnourishment. The police investigation found that the 12-year-old had been abused for years, locked in a room without bedding or blankets, beaten and starved, while adults in the home monitored him with multiple cameras.

Gavin had been on the radar of Utahs Department of Children and Family Services since 2014, but over and over the agency either failed to investigate allegations of abuse or neglect, or closed investigations prematurely. Public outrage in the wake of Gavins death was strong  there were protests and legislative hearings, and legislators took up a bill that would establish a mandatory minimum sentence for people convicted of child torture.

But nothing has been done to address the systemic problems that led to this tragedy. Instead, Utahs lawmakers seem poised to ... lower the cost of lunch in public schools.

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We dont know everything about the case, but at the website Lives Cut Short (a joint project of the American Enterprise Institute and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill), my colleagues and I have pieced together a timeline from public records and media reports.

Two-year-old Gavin was removed from his mothers custody in 2014 or 2015 after he was found wandering alone outside. His mother pleaded guilty to exposing her children to illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia, and Gavin went to live with his father, Shane Peterson. His older sister reported to their mother that when she lived with Shane and his wife, she was beaten, tied to the bed and barely fed. Her father shaved her head after she attempted to comb her hair without permission.

The older sister went to live with the mother, but Gavin remained with his father, stepmother and older brother. The authorities received multiple calls over many years concerning Gavins welfare. Cafeteria workers found him eating out of the trash and began paying for his lunch. His stepmother scolded them and told them to stop. Other school officials made calls about a broken tooth and fingers that were swollen and infected. Shortly thereafter, Gavin was removed from school by his parents with no explanation. A year later he died in the emergency room.

There are a number of steps that Utah legislators could take in response to what appears to be a total systemic failure. They could demand greater transparency around such incidents, to start. There are so many questions about why the DFCS staff acted in the way that it did. Some suggest it was a shortage of workers; others say there were inadequate resources. But until we get the full reports explaining DCFS actions, its impossible to say.

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The second thing the Legislature could do is to institute some guardrails around schooling. There are many great reasons to homeschool, and homeschooling has been a boon to millions of families around the country. But a family that abruptly pulls children out of school after multiple credible allegations of abuse or neglect should raise suspicions. Utah has no rules around these circumstances, nothing suggesting that child protection might even follow up on a family with a history of maltreatment once the child is effectively hidden from public view. And to make matters worse, Utah legislators are now proposing to remove a rule requiring parents who want to homeschool to sign an affidavit saying they have never been convicted of child abuse.

But progress on these issues has stalled, according to recent reports. One measure, House Bill 83, would empower police or child protective services to enter a home if a child is believed to be in danger. But the bill hasnt made it out of committee yet. Instead, it seems, lawmakers have turned their attention to making meals more affordable in school. Bizarrely, the legislator who sponsored this legislation says that it was Gavins case that made it possible. It shakes you to your core when you read a story about a young person like Gavin Peterson starving to death, Rep. Tyler Clancy said, per KUTV.

This is nonsense. Gavin didnt die because his family couldnt afford meals. He was purposefully starved to death by a family that had enough resources. His father, brother and stepmother have all been charged with homicide. There is not a lot of room for nuance here.

In a similar case in New York last fall, 4-year-old JahMeik Modlin died at a hospital of malnutrition after his parents kept the refrigerator turned facing the wall so that he and his three siblings could not access any of the familys food. Local news outlets ran articles that included links to local resources like soup kitchens. But JahMeik didnt starve because his family didnt know where to find food or couldnt afford it. He died because his parents intentionally starved him.

It can be hard for anyone to spend time with the details of these tragedies. But protecting children from being killed by their guardians is one of the most fundamental roles of government  even small government. Let Gavins death mean that other children dont suffer the same fate.
MANILA, Philippines (AP)  The Philippines' top diplomat to the United States expressed confidence Monday that President Donald Trumps new administration would continue military patrols in the disputed South China Sea and move ahead with an agreed expansion of the U.S. military presence in the Philippines, as concerns rise over Chinas increasingly assertive actions in the region.

Ambassador Jose Romualdez, who has had meetings with Trumps diplomatic, defense and congressional officials, said the U.S. would likely maintain its support to help modernize the Philippine military, which is at the forefront of deterring Chinas growing assertiveness in the disputed waters.

All of that will remain, Romualdez told foreign correspondents at a news conference in Manila. I am confident that it will.

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A Washington meeting between Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was being arranged and could happen as soon as as both leaders schedules allow, maybe in the spring, Romualdez said.

There was no immediate comment by Chinese officials on Romualdez's statements.

Trumps America First foreign policy and moves to roll back Washington's development assistance and security aid worldwide have set off concerns about the scale and depth of the U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific in his new term.

In recent talks between Philippine defense and military officials and their American counterparts, both sides have reaffirmed their commitment to maintain robust ties.

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Secretary of State Marco Rubio met Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference in Germany last month and not only reaffirmed U.S. commitment to the United States-Philippines alliance but noted his enthusiasm for building an even more invested and enduring relationship, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said then.

Their discussions included the ongoing bilateral coordination on addressing Chinas destabilizing actions in the South China Sea and increasing economic cooperation on infrastructure, critical minerals, information technology and energy, including through civil nuclear cooperation, Bruce said.

Confrontations between China and the Philippines have flared up in recent years in the South China Sea, a major global trade route, where Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have had overlapping claims for decades.

Romualdez said helping the Philippines stand up to threats to unhindered passage and overflight in the contested waters would benefit the U.S. and other allied and friendly countries, which are strengthening their defense ties with Manila.

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"Were right in the forefront of this push to make sure that the Indo-Pacific region remains free and clear, he said.

Trumps predecessor, Joe Biden, took steps to strengthen an arc of security alliances in the Indo-Pacific to better counter Chinas assertiveness, including in any future confrontation over self-governed Taiwan.

That has aligned with Marcos thrust to strengthen his countrys external defenses to protect the territorial interests of the Philippines in the South China Sea.
(Bloomberg) -- The Philippines is optimistic of Washingtons continued military support under President Donald Trump, but the Southeast Asian nation should be prepared if aid is discontinued, Manilas envoy to the US said, in the wake of renewed pressure between America and its western allies.

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I think all of that will remain. I am confident that it will, Jose Manuel Romualdez, told foreign reporters during a forum on Monday, referring to American aid and defense support for the Philippines. Trumps state and defense secretaries have reaffirmed Washingtons ironclad support for the Philippines security as the Southeast Asian nation faces down an ongoing maritime dispute with Beijing.

But the Philippines should also be self-reliant, Romualdez said following the breakdown of Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiys meeting last week. The incident, he said, shows that the Trump administration wants to end its financial support for Ukraine.

We have to all be ready for that type of situation, he said. It may be some other president in the future, but at the end of the day, each country now has to be ready to be able to beef up its own defense, beef up its own economic security.

The Trump administration has exempted $336 million in military financing from the freeze on US aid, and Romualdez said we are hopeful that the succeeding monies will be made available to us in the next couple of years.

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The Philippines and the US bolstered security ties under the previous Biden administration, with Manila granting US military access to more Philippine sites and Washington pledging to spend more to boost its allys defense capacity amid rising tensions with Beijing.

The Philippines faces an existential threat in the South China Sea and our desire to develop our defense capabilities to address this threat aligns with US interest to maintain peace and stability in this part of the world, Romualdez said.

US-Philippine relations have withstood the test of time and will continue to do so under the Trump administration, Romualdez reiterated Monday. A meeting between Trump and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is also being arranged, the diplomat said.

(Updates with more comments from envoy and background.)

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MANILA (Reuters) -Existing defence agreements between allies the Philippines and the United States will stay intact under U.S. President Donald Trump, Manila's ambassador to the United States said on Monday.

The United States and its former colony, the Philippines, are staunch defence allies, with U.S. troops rotating in and out of the Southeast Asian country regularly and dozens of joint exercises held each year.

"All of that will remain," Jose Manuel Romualdez said on the sidelines of a forum with foreign media in Manila.

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He was replying to a query about U.S. security support for the Philippines, from military financing and patrols in the South China Sea to Philippine defence facilities used by U.S. forces under their alliance.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is ready to travel when Trump has time for a meeting, which could be in spring, Romualdez added.

The Trump administration released $5.3 billion in previously frozen foreign aid, including $336 million earmarked to modernise the Philippine security forces, Reuters reported last month.

The release of the $336 million in funds was a good indication of the administration's position, Romualdez said.

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Romualdez said the figure was part of $500 million the United States pledged last year to the Philippine military and coast guard as Manila faces Chinese actions in the disputed waters of the South China Sea.

"We're hopeful that the succeeding monies will be made available to us in the next couple of years," said Romualdez, who also served as Philippine ambassador to the United States during Trump's first presidency.

The Philippines needed these investments to become a real partner, as the United States expects allies to be, Romualdez said, expressing confidence about Washington's continued support for his country and the Indo-Pacific region.

The United States has also deployed to the Philippines a Typhon multipurpose missile system for training purposes, angering China, which has repeatedly said the move poses a threat to regional stability.

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The Philippines seeks to import liquefied natural gas from the United States in a "give and take" on trade, Romualdez said.

His remarks come as Southeast Asian neighbours such as Vietnam and Thailand, scramble to cut U.S. trade surpluses after Trump set an April 1 deadline for his government to complete a review of all its trade relationships.

"Trump's idea of what the United States wants to do is helping other countries become a real partner," said Romualdez, who is a cousin of Marcos.

A Philippine finance official told the forum the government was exploring alternative sources of financing to ensure continuity of projects hit by a freezing of funds from the U.S. Agency for International Development.

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Finance Undersecretary Domini Velasquez said the freeze order could affect 29 projects worth more than $600 million, spanning health, education and the economy.

The government is discussing potential funding from other bilateral partners and state agencies to get financial support, she added.

(Reporting by Karen Lema; Editing by John Mair and Clarence Fernandez)
Photos: Hail seen across San Diego County amid rain storms

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  San Diegans were surprised to see hail falling Sunday evening as scattered rainfall fell across the region.

Residents in San Carlos and Pacific Beach reported seeing hail fall as a low-pressure system moved across the region Sunday, bringing light rain, mountain snow and gusty winds, according to National Weather Service San Diego.

However, hail was not in the forecast, but was seen falling in some areas to the surprise of many residents.

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Did you see hail on Sunday? Share your weather photos/videos with FOX 5 & KUSI.

Hail falls in San Diegos Pacific Beach on Sunday, March 2, 2025 (FOX 5/KUSI) Hail falls in San Carlos on Sunday, March 2, 2025 (FOX 5/KUSI)

A slight chance of thunderstorms remains in the forecast for the San Diego mountains and westward as this next storm system brings rain to the area overnight.

On your commute Monday morning in East County, expect to see light rainfall with a 50% chance of at least 0.1 of snow at the Cajon Pass and a 50% chance of at least 2 of snow in the Pine Valley area along the I-8.

Storm chances will decrease by Monday afternoon.

San Diego County rainfall totals through Monday, March 3, 2025 (Photo: National Weather Service)

View the latest weather on FOX 5/KUSIs live weather radar.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Getting seen by a primary care physician can be a tall order these days.

And its expected to get worse.

The Association of American Medical Colleges predicts the shortage of PCPs could reach close to 50,000 in the coming decade.

Physician assistants could help alleviate a backlog in care, but they say theyre hampered by a Massachusetts state law.

Theyre now pushing to change it.

One patient in Westwood said I guess there is a shortage of doctors. I dont remember the last time I saw my general practitioner.

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A woman said this trend does worry her, but were getting used to things like that.

In a primary care clinical setting, there is really absolutely no difference in what a PA or a physician can do. We offer same day visits, hospital follow-ups, comprehensive chronic care disease management, and physical exams, said Lindsay Driscoll, M.S., P.A.C., a physician assistant at MGH Brigham at Patriot Place.

She said there is one big difference in providing that care, however.

As the law stands now, we do have to have a listed supervisory physician, and thats an archaic law that can have some limitations.

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A bill is under consideration on Beacon Hill to give PAs more independence.

The bill is strictly just removing a legal requirement for the PA to have registered, with the state, a physician specifically to work with them.

Driscoll believes the impact on patient care would be dramatic.

PAs would absolutely be able to help fill some more of the void in the Commonwealth. Were only meeting about 40% or our primary care needs, and we could absolutely help fill that gap in getting same day visits, and then moving up the timeline of getting new patients into primary care.

A woman told Boston 25 News It would definitely be helpful because probably people could be seen sooner and thats you know, usually helpful so I would be in support of that.

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In a statement, Dr. Hugh Taylor, president of the Massachusetts Medical Society wrote:

While physician assistants play a critical role in the health care system, physician-led, team-based care is the optimal model for achieving the best patient outcomes. Extensive education and training equip physicians with the expertise to supervise health care teams delivering care to a patient population that is increasingly sicker and more medically complex. Moreover, we know 95% of patients want physicians to be involved in their care. The Medical Society is focused on the primary care crisis in Massachusetts, which is rooted in systemic issues that will not be solved by shifting clinical responsibilities away from physicians. With only 16% of PAs in Massachusetts working in primary care, expanding scope of practice will have little impact on improving patient access to care. Data and evidence conclude that expanding scope of practice for non-physicians has not led to an increased access to primary care for patients in underserved and rural areas. We must drive holistic policy solutions that will ensure long-term sustainability of the primary care system, addressing the administrative drivers of burnout among primary care physicians and increasing investments in primary care. "

Some patients told Boston 25 News they value a greater level of expertise.

One woman said I feel like if its more of a serious matter, I feel more comfortable with my personal PCP. If its something more minor, figuring out a cold, an NP or a physician assistant, I would be OK with it.

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Driscoll believes most PAs know their role and just want to provide appropriate care without being entangled in bureaucratic strings.

When you or your mother or your sister call and they want a primary care appointment and theyre told that its many, many months away, I see this is a change, where they can say, see you next week.

Massachusetts has a higher concentration of PAs based on population than most other regions of the country, according to the NCCPA, a certifying organization for physician assistants.

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In 2024, Pierce County budgeted nearly five times the money to address homelessness than it had five years before, yet data shows we are not any closer to solving the crisis.

Some leaders in the fight against homelessness say the goal is to reduce it to functional zero but that piecemeal funding systems that erode the sustainability of programs make that difficult to achieve. Threatened funding cuts at the federal level under the Trump administration arent helping, they say.

We are beholden to federal and state funders, former county Human Services director Heather Moss told The News Tribune in November. It is a year-to-year risk, and we put a lot of risk on providers. Short-term contracts can be a challenge.

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Two service providers told The News Tribune they are skeptical that the system is meant to make significant progress at all.

One of them is Jake Nau, the homeless outreach manager at St. Vincent de Pauls Community Resource Center. He works with folks living unhoused every day and is familiar with the many moving parts that make up the regions homelessness response.

Nau told The News Tribune there are officials and benefactors of the system that he described as protectors of the status quo.

There is no incentive to end homelessness, he said. This is a system built to maintain itself.

Meanwhile, the numbers continue to grow.

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The county conducts an annual survey of those living unhoused, known as the Point-In-Time Count. On a single night in 2024, volunteers counted 2,661 individuals living in shelters, vehicles and outdoors in Pierce County  nearly three times the number of people that were counted three years before.

Many in the homeless-service and outreach community say the Point-In-Time Count provides a conservative estimate of the number of those experiencing homelessness. According to Pierce County, 6,335 people were connected to homelessness response system at the time of the 2024 survey.

From 2015 to 2023, the county spent more than $172 million dollars on its homelessness response, about $21.5 million per year. In 2024, the county budgeted roughly $75.7 million dollars to fight homelessness.

What would it cost annually to make a real dent in the problem?

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Moss estimated in blog post in November that the county would need an annual investment of $157 million to meet the needs of those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, according to the countys Comprehensive Plan to End Homelessness.

That is equal to roughly 70% of the 2024-2025 Pierce County Sheriffs Departments law enforcement budget.

When asked how that level of funding would help to make significant progress towards ending the homelessness crisis, Moss said one of the largest efforts would be building and incentivizing more affordable housing  what she called a nationally recognized best practice to mitigate homelessness.

At the end of 2024, the county was investing in approximately 1,500 new affordable housing units across Pierce County that are in various stages of development and anticipated those units being livable in the next two years. According to the Housing Action Strategy, that is not enough.

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The Housing Action Strategy, published by the county in 2022, estimated the region would need to create 2,300 units of affordable housing annually over the next two decades in order to meet the housing demand in the region. According to a consultants estimation referenced on the Housing Action Strategy, Pierce County needed an additional $624 million to support that objective.

Moss also said additional funding would be used to provide more interventions and resources for the chronically homeless population  a demographic of people who have been unhoused or unsheltered for long periods of time, or who have found themselves unhoused more than once.

Until or unless we get to that level of sustained funding, our system will be insufficient to meet demand, Moss wrote in her statement.

Motorhome and travel trailers are seen in the Pierce Transit Center Street park-and-ride lot on bordering state Route 16 in Tacoma on Wednesday, April 19, 2023.

Funds are not adequate to the level of need

As the current system of funding exists, the county is beholden to its funders when it comes to organizing and sustaining its homelessness response system, said Moss, who was removed from her position by new County Executive Ryan Mello.

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The News Tribune asked county leaders why there appears to be a lack of political will to adequately address the homelessness crisis. Mello responded that the obstacles to adequately funding the fight against homelessness are not merely political.

The county is significantly dependent on state and federal funding, he stated in an email to The News Tribune. We are grateful for the states recent historic investments in affordable housing, as well as initiatives such as the Encampment Resolution Program. But, as a whole, the funds are not adequate to the level of need.

Since the pandemic, federal COVID assistance and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars have allowed for significant increases in homelessness-mitigation investments. Of the $75.7 million budgeted in 2024 for the homeless-response system, $23 million was from ARPA funds.

Those funds will no longer be available for new allocations in 2025.

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Human Services receives funding through local revenues like document-recording fees and the Maureen Howard sales tax, state revenues like the Department of Commerces Rights-of-Way Safety Initiative, and federal revenues such as the Emergency Solutions Grant or Continuum of Care (CoC) funding  which are granted through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Mello said counties are significantly constrained by state law in options to generate additional local funding. While on the County Council, Mello advocated for the Maureen Howard Affordable Housing Act. The act created a sales tax which serves as one of few county-generated sources of revenue for affordable housing investments.

Much of the revenue stream is compartmentalized and can only be used for specific purposes like emergency shelter, street outreach, eviction prevention and affordable-housing projects.

Pierce County Council Chair Jani Hitchen told The News Tribune unsuccessful coordination between parts of the homelessness-response system makes the system less cost-effective.

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She said the county has not made the necessary investments in the full spectrum of resources needed to mitigate the crisis effectively. Hitchen used the example of the need for increased shelter capacity as well as the need for affordable housing to help reduce the risk of homelessness.

The money is daunting, but if we could get systems aligned, so anytime someone experiences homelessness, it is brief and not repeated, costs will begin to go down, Hitchen told The News Tribune.

Kari Moore, a spokesperson for Human Services, said there are roughly 18 funding sources for the homelessness-response system, and there are requirements attached to each funding source that mandate very deliberate allocations of the funding.

Many of the revenue streams can be made available by Human Services and offered as grants. Service providers can competitively apply for the funding.

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The grants often extend for a year or two of services. Service-providing organizations that often depend on grant funding to hire staff and continue doing work in the community often have to reapply for the grants.

It is never guaranteed that Human Services will continue to receive funding for certain grants, which creates uncertainty for organizations.

A homeless encampment partially blocks the sidewalk along 96th Street east of Hosmer Street in Tacoma, Washington, on Thursday, Sept. 24, 2024.

How does that impact those fighting homelessness?

Family Promise of Pierce County has been operating as an organization fighting homelessness in Pierce County for about a year. In April 2024, the organization was awarded a $1 million grant to establish and operate the countys first-ever shelter hub  a place where any unsheltered person could go to get help.

At the beginning of the year Family Promise of Pierce County was a small operation, working out of a portable on the lot of an elementary school in Parkland. Its small team of case managers worked to get families experiencing homelessness back on their feet.

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Now, with grant funding from Pierce County, the nonprofit is expanding. It has hired over a dozen employees and leased new space in an old school in Parkland to serve as the countys shelter hub.

But there is no guarantee it will be able to sustain those operations outside of a few years. It does not know if the grant will expire, be renewed or if another organization will be awarded the funding.

You are constantly on edge, Family Promises CEO, Steve Decker, told The News Tribune when asked about what it is like as a nonprofit relying on grant funding. We dont know if next year we will have to lay off employees or not.

He said Pierce Countys system does not pay organizations up front. Often, organizations like his operate at a deficit as they do their work, so expense tracking and financial planning are crucial to the sustainability of the operation.

Decker told The News Tribune that grant-funded organizations have to be extremely diligent in accounting and documenting every transaction they make in order to be properly reimbursed. His system includes tools for service providers to properly track their cell phone usage, car mileage and other expenses that public agencies require grant-funded organizations to track.

Decker said the county can decline to reimburse for transactions its believes were too expensive.

That is the fear that every nonprofit faces, he said.

Sometimes, organizations wait months to receive the grant funding they were awarded.

Decker said Family Promise did not receive any of the grant funding the county said it was awarded in April until months later. It was owed tens of thousands of dollars, according to information shared at at one of its board meetings in October.

The delay in funding did not stop the work. Family Promise continued to run the shelter hub, trusting it would receive funding at a later date. In November 2024, Decker told The News Tribune it had begun to receive the grant funding it was promised.

Decker said it is pretty typical for non-profits to operate with razor thin margins. When he was hired with Family Promise, he was told it would not be able to give him his pay check for the first several months of his employment.

Is this system sustainable?

HUDs Continuum of Care (CoC) model, through which a collection of regional stakeholders work collaboratively to administer federal funding and manage a regions homeless response, was introduced in the mid-1990s.

Before the CoC, organizations applied for funding through a few homeless-grant programs, and there was little-to-no collaboration among them, according to a report published by the National Low Income Housing Coalition. The CoC process was intended to promote regional coordination of funding and efforts.

There are more than 400 regional CoC organizations across the country competitively applying for billions in grant funding.

Organizations doing the work and providing the services that make up our homelessness response are almost entirely dependent on short-term grants  and the grants do not always last forever.

Decker said that prevents his organization from making long-term plans.

There is no money for sustainability, he told The News Tribune.

When asked what would happen if Pierce Countys homelessness funding was significantly reduced, Moss said the department would have to do a full revaluation of the system involving input from community providers, jurisdictions and subject-matter experts to determine funding priorities and potential impacts.

Sustainability has been a huge part of our strategy, as weve been intentional about the services and projects weve funded, Moss told The News Tribune. Additional funding sources, such as the Maureen Howard Affordable Housing Tax and new dollars from the Youth Homeless Demonstration Program, are helping us diversify revenue sources.

According to Moss, most government funding comes with risks about predictability, but she said having some type of endowment could help ensure funding sustainability.

The demand for homeless outreach and services is higher than current funding can support. With limited resources, the county has already made tough decisions about which organizations to award grant funding to and which ones to snub.

In 2024, the county decided on how to dole out more than $17.6 million in annual funding for a wide variety of homeless-service providers. The investment is known as the Homeless Housing Program (HHP) and is the countys largest regular funding opportunity for homeless services.

According to the county, 56 homeless service applications were filed for funding through the Homeless Housing Program and more than $32 million was requested.

St. Vincent de Paul is an organization that does homelessness outreach in Tacoma. The organizations proposed outreach program, which received the second-highest rubric score of any outreach project, was not recommended for any funding  raising questions about the countys process for determining funding awards.

Through his experience with the systems he describes as dysfunctional, he has grown cynical - and questions if the bureaucracy the county has created is serious about addressing the crisis at all.

A microshelter village on 60th Street in southeast Tacoma is shown on Tuesday, July 21, 2020.

Protectors of the status quo

In an interview with The News Tribune, Nau said some service providers are reluctant to be publicly critical of the countys systems for fear of retaliation. He said some are worried that to speak up would mean their organizations might not be chosen to receive the funding they need.

Several service providers have previously described that dynamic as the politics that impact the homeless-response system.

In September 2024, a consultants review of Pierce Countys system for administering and dispersing federal funding found it lacked transparency and a clear decision-making process.

The report incorporated feedback from the service-provider community, with some members saying they felt the system was governed in siloes without coordination, alignment or collaboration.

The report also included feedback from the community which identified power hoarding, fear of open conflict, lack of transparency, defensiveness and transactional goals and relationships.

Nau said there are certain organizations that have been receiving grant funding to be a part of the homelessness-response system for years and are so entrenched in the system that they will not admit when the system is not working, even when it is obvious.

These are dysfunctional systems we work within, he said. And there is almost nothing we can do.

Tim Fairley is an advocate with Tacoma Outreach who recently joined Pierce Countys Continuum of Care board. Fairley told The News Tribune that homelessness is a billion-dollar industry through which some have become very wealthy.

The Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI) is one example of a nonprofit organization that has grown substantially in a political climate that has heavily incentivized affordable housing. LIHI owns or manages dozens of subsidized, affordable housing projects and tiny home shelters across the Puget Sound, including in Pierce County.

According to tax documentation filed by the nonprofit in 2023, LIHI owns more than $410 million worth of assets. In 2023, LIHI reported receiving more than $93 million in contributions and grants.

The Low Income Housing Institute operates across six counties, directly owns and operates 3,500 units of affordable housing, plus oversees a dozen enhanced shelter programs that have effectively lifted up the most vulnerable in our communities, Jon Grant, a spokesperson for LIHI, told The News Tribune.

During the Pierce County Councils last Select Committee on Homelessness meeting on Dec. 11, Fairley left the council members with a message.

Homelessness is a billion-dollar business. Once we figure out who is profiting from it, then we can resolve the issue, he told the committee. It is not that we cannot feed the poor. It is just that we cannot satisfy the rich.
Firing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees is a different beast than firing paper-pushers at other federal agencies.

Don't miss

FAA employees are commonly tasked with ensuring air safety, and given a string of recent incidents that were all over the news, it seems like the Trump administrations staff cuts come at a time when flyers are on edge.

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Confidence in air travel has dipped this year, according to a recent survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. It found the American public is most confident in the ability of pilots to maintain air safety and they have the least amount of confidence in federal government agencies.

More than 130 of the recent batch of FAA job cuts were positions that directly or indirectly supported air traffic control, facilities, and technology used to keep planes and passengers safe, according to the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists.

Now it's worth noting that as per Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, fewer than 400 people were let go at the FAA  an agency that employs 45,000 people. Duffy also noted that all terminated employees were probationary  meaning, they were hired less than a year prior to their dismissal  and no one with a critical safety position was fired.

But one recently terminated FAA employee told Politico they were a member of a team of 12 whose job is to create air maps  the preplanned routes that pilots and controllers use to guide airplanes. "Air traffic controllers cannot do their work without us," said the aeronautical information specialist. "Without our team ... pilots would quite literally be flying blind." It's not clear how many members of the team were laid off. They said workers were targeted just as a senseless line item on an Excel sheet.

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"I do think the American public does need to be concerned, about not only my firing but also the firing of so many public safety [and] national security professionals at the FAA," said Charles Spitzer-Stadtlander, another fired FAA employee who was a part of an initiative established to detect incoming missiles, to People.

Your rights as a traveler

The dismissal of hundreds of FAA employees could lead to an uptick in flight delays and cancellations. And the fear is that it could increase the risk of accidents. So it's important to know your rights as a passenger in these situations.

The Department of Transportation says, "Airlines are required to adhere to the promises that they make in their customer service plan, including commitments to care for customers in the event of controllable delays or cancellations."

Read more: Home prices in America could fly through the roof in 2025  heres the big reason why and how to take full advantage (with as little as $10)

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It also says that if an airline cancels your flight or makes a significant change to its departure time, you're entitled to a refund should you choose not to get rebooked. This holds true even if you purchased a non-refundable ticket. But from there, the compensation you're entitled to depends on the airline you've booked with and the situation at hand.

Delta, for example, will give you a free hotel room if you're affected by an overnight cancellation. And you're entitled to a meal voucher for a delay of three hours or more. Your best bet is to consult this dashboard from the Department of Transportation, which covers the policies of 10 major U.S. airlines, to see what rights you have in the event of a cancellation or delay.

That said, as a passenger, you can always ask an airline to go above and beyond its typical policy. For example, if a flight delay causes you to miss an event that you paid for, you may be able to convince the airline to reimburse you for your tickets.

You should also know that you may be able to sue an airline if you sustain an injury during a flight due to their negligence. But for that, you'll generally need to consult an attorney. And compensation is awarded on a case-by-case basis.

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Earlier in February, a Delta flight turned upside following a turbulent landing in Toronto. Two passengers have since sued the airline for negligence and are seeking compensation for their injuries  both physical and emotional.

Delta has already offered $30,000 in compensation to passengers on that flight, saying the money "has no strings attached and does not affect rights." Whether some individual passengers get more will depend on how their lawsuits shake out.

What to read next

Jamie Dimon issues a warning about the US stock market  says prices are 'kind of inflated.' Crashproof your portfolio with these 3 rock-solid strategies

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
UPDATE 3/3 10 a.m.: Pittsburgh police said Leroy Moss has been found safe.

_______________________________________

Initial coverage:

Pittsburgh police are asking for the publics help in finding a missing 66-year-old man with dementia.

Leroy Moss was last seen on Sunday at Mercy Hospital in Uptown. He was wearing a hospital gown.

Police said he may have been spotted in the South Side knocking on doors early Monday mornng.

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Moss is described as 5 feet tall and 130 pounds with blue eyes and gray hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call 412-323-7141 or 911.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
The construction site of Ascend Elements Apex I facility on July 9, 2024. The estimated $1 billion project will manufacture cathode active material for the EV battery industry at Commerce Park II on John Rivers Road between Hopkinsville and Pembroke. (Hoptown Chronicle photo by Jennifer P. Brown)

Ascend Elements, the electric vehicle battery materials manufacturer that is constructing a plant in Hopkinsvilles Commerce Park II, is scaling back some of its plans for production at the local facility.

Ascend and the U.S. Department of Energy mutually agreed to cancel a $164 million federal grant for part of the manufacturing infrastructure at the companys Apex 1 facility, the company announced.

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Because of changing market conditions, Ascend is canceling plans at the Hopkinsville facility for production of cathode active material, or CAM, a main component in lithium-ion batteries. However, it will produce precursor cathode active material, or pCAM, and lithium carbonate in Hopkinsville.

A separate $316 million Department of Energy grant for the pCAM infrastructure at Ascend remains active, according to the companys statement. According to federal spending records, Ascend has received $205 million of that grant.

Initially, company representatives and local and state economic development officials said the plant would employ 250 workers, based on a $310 million investment.

However, days before a ground-breaking ceremony in October 2022, federal officials announced additional investments with $480 million in Department of Energy grant funds  $164 million for CAM manufacturing infrastructure and $316 million for pCAM manufacturing infrastructure. The grant came from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed during President Joe Bidens administration.

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Its the largest economic development project in Christian County, Gov. Andy Beshear said at the ground-breaking ceremony. And now  the largest investment in Western Kentucky.

Officials projected that future expansion could push the project to a $1 billion investment employing 400 or more people.

It was not immediately clear how eliminating the CAM infrastructure line will affect the size of Ascends workforce.

We are grateful to the U.S. DOE for selecting Ascend Elements to receive this funding, but current market conditions do not support advancement of the CAM project at Apex 1, said Roger Lin, vice president of government affairs at Ascend Elements. We are 100% committed to completing construction of the Apex 1 campus in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, but the facility will only produce pCAM and lithium carbonate, a critical mineral. Were just not seeing significant market demand for CAM right now, but we have buyers lined up to purchase sustainable, domestically produced pCAM and lithium carbonate.

Ascends Apex 1 facility is projected to be operational in the third quarter of 2026.

This story is republished from Hoptown Chronicle.
CHICAGO (WGN)  Polands president is visiting Chicago and took part in a Pulaski Day celebration Monday.

Andrzej Dudas visit comes three days before the 280th anniversary of Polish General and honorary U.S. citizen Casimir Pulaskis birth (March 6, 1745). The Polish Museum of America hosted Duda in the citys West Town neighborhood.

Pulaski is a celebrated war hero, not only in his fight for Polish independence against Russia, but also for his leadership when he came to the United States to fight in the American Revolution.

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He was killed during the The siege of Savannah, Georgia in 1779.

While Duda profiles as more right-wing in his countrys politics, he has been an ardent supporter of Ukraine after Russias invasion three years ago, leading Poland as a Ukrainian ally that has not only provided military aid but also served as a refuge for millions of Ukrainians seeking to escape the Russian invasion.

Pope Francis suffers new breathing crises, is back on noninvasive ventilation: Vatican

While Duda did not comment on the current war, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin did, especially on the future of NATO, of which Poland is a member.

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The fact that it a free and independent country is also owed to the support of the United States and to the support of the Polish Americans living here, Duda said.

The future of NATO is uncertain at this point, with this new administration. But this much I can tell you, those Pulaski moments are still in our hearts, Durbin said. The friendship and relationship between the US and Poland is stronger than ever. We still seek democracy together and we stand together for common defense.

Dudas visit to Chicago is part of a longer trip to the United States.

Last week, he faced criticism at home for a hastily arranged 10-minute face-to-face with President Donald Trump at the Conservative Political Action Conference.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
VIENNA (Reuters) -Police evacuated Vienna's main train station on Monday over an unspecified threat, halting rail traffic before giving the all clear around 90 minutes later, but national rail company OBB warned continued delays and cancellations were expected.

While the police did not describe the threat, some Austrian media said it was a bomb threat. Austria suffered a series of empty bomb threats last year that prompted the clearing of larger stations, causing delays to train traffic.

"The operation at #Hauptbahnhof Wien has been completed and the search was negative," Vienna police said on X, using the station's name in German.

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During the evacuation, police sealed off a large perimeter around the station, a major rail hub with services to and from neighbouring countries including Hungary, the Czech Republic, Germany and Italy.

"Good news! Our trains are running again at Vienna main station. Please expect continued delays and train cancellations," OBB said on X.

(Reporting by Francois Murphy; editing by Mark Heinrich)
EMPORIUM, Pa. (WTAJ)  Police are investigating after a vehicle crashed into a local laundromat over the weekend.

Emporium police are asking the public for any information they may have after a vehicle hit the Diamond Supply Laundromat sometime between March 1 and March 3.

Photo: Emporium Police Department

Photo: Emporium Police Department

According to police, a witness did reach out and claimed it was a blue minivan with a Hispanic driver and it happened around 5:20 p.m. Sunday.

Stay up to date with the latest news in the palm of your hand. Click here to download the WTAJ app for Apple and Android devices.

Anyone with information is asked to call the police department at 814-486-3384.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ - www.wtaj.com.
GREENVILLE, S.C. (WSPA)  A weekend shooting which left one person dead and sent two to the hospital is likely an act of domestic violence, according to police.

At around 5:10 p.m. Saturday, Greenville police were called to a shooting at the The Shops at Greenridge on Woodruff Road in Greenville. At the scene, officers found three gunshot victims  a male victim who died at the scene and two female victims who were taken to the hospital for treatment.

On Monday, Greenville Police Department said investigators used security camera footage and witness statements to determine the dead male victim was responsible for the shooting.

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The Greenville County Coroners office identified the man that died as Devinn Jamal Johnson, 25, of Greer. Johnsons cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest.

Further investigation showed Johnson had previously been in a relationship with one of the women who had been shot, and the other victim was a member of her family.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
21-year-old Kristina Roble was found safe.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  The Virginia Beach Police Department is seeking assistance in looking for a missing adult.

21-year-old Kristina Roble was last seen in the 4400 block of Bonney Road around 9:20 a.m. on Monday. Police said Roble does not have a cell phone with her and is considered endangered.

If you have any information about this case, you can submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-888-LOCK-U-UP, downloading the P3 tips app to a mobile device, or visiting www.P3tips.com and submitting a tip.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
At least two people were killed and 25 others were injured when a car drove into a crowd in Mannheim, Germany, on Monday, during an annual carnival celebration, police said.

"A 40-year-old suspect drove a car into a group of people who were in the Planken area of Mannheim city center," the police statement said. "Two people were killed and five seriously injured."

The two people killed in the attack have been identified as an 83-year-old woman and a 54-year-old man.

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A search of the area was immediately launched and a suspect was arrested, according to the police statement.

The suspect was later identified as Alexander Scheuermann, a 40-year-old German citizen from Ludwigshafen, two sources close to the investigation told ABC News. He is being investigated for double murder and multiple attempted murders, according to officials, who believe he acted alone.

PHOTO: Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, March 3, 2025. (Rene Priebe/DPA via AP)

The suspect, according the German interior minister, shot himself as police moved in, but survived after being taken to a hospital.

"We assume that he drove intentionally," said Romeo Schussler, senior public prosecutor, explaining that the individual was known to authorities for past incidents.

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"The perpetrator had to serve a short prison sentence for bodily harm 10 years ago. There was also a case of drunk driving," he said. "The last time he was noticed was in 2018 for hate speech on Facebook."

However, a motive for the attack remains under investigation.

MORE: Mother, daughter die from injuries suffered in Munich car attack

Schussler added that there was "concrete evidence" that Scheuermann may have been living with a mental health disorder and that investigators are continuing to look into that aspect of the case.

Andreas Stenger, president of the State Criminal Police Office, said that there was no evidence that the crime had been announced in advance, and that the suspect's social media data was being "forensically secured."

PHOTO: Vehicle plows into crowd in southwestern Germany (ABC News, Google Earth)

Mannheim has a population of 326,000 and is about 52 miles south of Frankfurt.

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The incident unfolded around 12:15 p.m. local time in the Planken shopping district area near Paradeplatz Square, according to police.

Police said that all bridges and main roads were initially blocked off and authorities asked the public to stay away from the city center. Several hours later, police reopened the area after issuing an all-clear.

Video footage from Paradeplatz Square in the center of Mannheim showed shoppers standing outside an area cordoned off by police tape and strewn with debris, including a shoe. First responders could be seen tending to at least one injured person.

Of the 25 people injured, five were in life-threatening condition, the interior minister said, adding that children were among those hurt.

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The German interior minister said the suspect's car, a Ford Fiesta, was found abandoned by police near the scene of Monday's deadly incident.

The incident occurred as people were gathering in central Mannheim for an annual German carnival celebration.

Witness Manu Brioso told ABC News that he was taking a class in a building in the Paradeplatz area when he saw the car involved in the incident pass by on the street before it struck a crowd of people.

"The school told us what had happened and that we couldn't leave the school because police had cordoned off the area," Brioso said.

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When he was allowed to leave, Brioso said the street was full of police, firefighters and ambulances.

Security video obtained by ABC News showed the vehicle, a dark-colored compact hatchback car, appeared to be speeding down a street before the incident, drawing the attention of people seated at a sidewalk cafe and pedestrians, some rushing across the street to get out of the car's path.

Officials at the Mannheim University Hospital said they received an emergency alert at 12:20 p.m. local time about a possible mass casualty incident in downtown Mannheim and activated the hospital's emergency plan in preparation for treating the injured. The hospital reported receiving many injured patients, both adults and children, including some in critical condition.

The hospital said its intensive care unit was full due to the arrival of a high number of critical patients. According to the hospital, eight trauma teams were treating both adults and children.

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As a security precaution, all of the hospital's entrances were closed to the public.

PHOTO: Emergency services and police stand at Paradeplatz in Mannheim, Germany, March 3, 2025. (Dieter Leder/DPA via AP)

The deadly incident comes in the wake of two intentional car-ramming attacks in Germany and at a time of heightened security across the country.

On Feb. 13, a 24-year-old suspect drove a car into a crowd in Munich gathered for a trade union demonstration, killing a 37-year-old mother and her 2-year-old daughter and injuring 37 people. The suspect, Fahad Noori, who is originally from Afghanistan, purportedly confessed to investigators that the act was deliberate. A prosecutor, Gabriele Tilman, said the suspect "gave an explanation I would summarize as religious motivation."

On Dec. 20, a car-ramming attack occurred at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, that left five people dead and around 200 injured. A 50-year-old Saudi-born man, identified as Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, was arrested in the incident, which police suspect was deliberate. Al-Abdulmohsen was charged with five counts of murder and multiple counts of both attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm.

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The Mannheim incident comes at the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and amid a threat environment that has prompted Western officials to issue warnings to law enforcement and intelligence agencies in the United States and Western Europe.

According to a notice issued by the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center last week, an ISIS-aligned network released a poster called "Choose Your Next Target!" and lists four upcoming festivals and parades, mostly in Germany. The poster features images of a bloody knife and pistol, encouraging attacks.

Officials noted that last year during Ramadan, ISIS-Khorasan attacked Crocus City Hall in Moscow, Russia, killing 145 people.

"Following the attack, ISIS released a rare audio statement from its official spokesman -- which supporters subsequently translated into over a dozen languages, including English -- celebrating that attack and calling for more violence against Christian and Jewish communities during Ramadan," officials said.

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MORE: Suspect in Germany Christmas market attack facing murder charges, police say

On New Year's Day, 14 people were killed and numerous others were injured in a car ramming attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans' French Quarter. The suspect was 42-year-old Army veteran Shamsud-Din Jabbar, who was killed in a gunfight with police officers. Investigators alleged that Jabbar, who was a U.S.-born citizen from Texas, was inspired by ISIS to commit the attack.

In recent days, the New York Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security have issued notices alerting law enforcement to terrorism fears associated with Ramadan. The notices, obtained by ABC News, warned that "malicious actors from across the ideological spectrum may view Ramadan as an ideal time to commit attacks."

The assessment reflects prior targeted acts of violence, disrupted plots and recent violent extremist propaganda.

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"The current dynamic threat environment necessitates elevated vigilance at mass gatherings, houses of worship, and Muslim/Jewish community events, especially during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan," the NYPD document said.

The DHS document noted that messaging from foreign terrorist organizations calling for violence during Ramadan "adds to a heightened concern of homegrown violent extremist attacks following the 2025 New Years ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans, likely raising the potential for violence from HVEs [homegrown violent extremists] during this years observance."

ABC News' Aaron Katersky, Josh Margolin, Joe Simonetti and Zoe Magee contributed to this report.

2 dead, 25 injured after vehicle drives into crowd originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA)  Police are searching for a 17-year-old who went missing on Sunday.

According to the St. Petersburg Police Department, Allister Samer Nasr was last seen around 10 a.m. leaving his house near the 6500 block of Bayou Grande Boulevard NE.

Credit: St. Petersburg Police Department Credit: St. Petersburg Police Department

He was wearing blue shorts, a grey sweatshirt, and riding a white beach cruiser bicycle.

If anyone has any information on his whereabouts, they should contact the St. Petersburg Police Department at 727-893-7780.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
FLORENCE, S.C. (WBTW)  Florence police have a 35-year-old woman in custody and are looking for another suspect after finding shell casings while investigating a reported shooting near where a birthday party was taking place on Sunday.

Oshatae Bethea of Florence was arrested after police searched an apartment and charged with possession of a stolen firearm. She was booked into the Florence County Detention Center early Monday morning.

Polcie are still looking for Auris Singletary on possible weapons charges.

Officers responded at about 11:30 p.m. to the area of Cambridge Court Apartments after reports of gunshots being heard in the area, police said. When officers arrived, several calls came in regarding a shooting at that location.

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No one was reported to be injured and no property damage was found after the initial investigation, according to police. Officers found numerous shell casings around an apartment where the birthday party was happening and more in the grass around the building.

That apartment  Betheas  was searched, and a gun that had been reported stolen was found inside, police said. Bethea claim ownership of the gun.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Lance Cpl. Mattis at tmattis@cityofflorence.com or 843-665-3191.

* * *

Caleb is a digital producer at News13. Caleb joined the team in January 2023 after graduating from Liberty University. He is from Northern Virginia. Follow Caleb on X, formerly Twitter, and read more of his work here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
COVINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56)  An attempted bank robbery Friday in northern Kentucky resulted in one man being sent to the hospital after he was shot by police.

The Covington Police Department said officers were called at 3:05 p.m. to the U.S. Bank on Madison Avenue for an armed robbery.

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Kentucky State Police said the Covington Police Department requested help investigating the shooting.

According to a news release, after arriving on the scene, officers saw Charles Davis, of Covington, fleeing the bank armed with a weapon.

Officers commanded Davis to drop the weapon. During the encounter, officers shot and hit Davis, reportedly resulting in non-life-threatening injuries.

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He was transported to the UC Medical Center, where he is in stable condition. No other injuries were reported.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT)  Beginning Monday, a new policy at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library will require children 17 and younger to have their parents or guardians permission for what they check out.

The new policy known as the Younger Reader Card gives parents the ability to determine which level of access their child will have to books and items inside the library.

Madison bookstore offering diverse selection, highlighting local creatives

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All library cards issued to youth aged 17 and younger will require a parent or guardian to give guarantor authorization by submitting a Young Reader Card Waiver, a section of the librarys website states.

The policy is being met with pushback from community members, with several setting up a protest at Big Spring Park on Sunday.

We are losing the right to read here. This is just as step along the way, we know that the people who are pushing for these book bans are just trying to expand it even more, said protest organizer Marisa Allison. We are seeing evidence that they are trying to push back against books in the adult section so we all should be alarmed.

Fellow protester John Stever said these policies are a slippery slope.

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Once censorship begins, where does it end? said Stever. Thats my concern, first amendment rights, the constitution, who decides what gets banned?

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library shared this comment about the new policy with News 19.

The Huntsville-Madison County Public Library is doing its best to serve our community while being in compliance with the Alabama Public Library Services administrative code, said a spokesperson for the library.

The policy will give parents three levels of accessibility to the library for their children.

According to the librarys website, the level of access is up to the parents or guardians. The library said parents and guardians retain the right to decide which materials their child can or cannot access.

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Protesters said they dont blame the library as they feel that they are being forced to do what the Alabama Public Library System wants.

Our library board has decided and made these policy changes in order to receive state funding, said Allison. In a lot of ways theyve tied up the libraries in having to do these censorship changes.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
DENVER (KDVR)  Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, said Sunday that he agreed with GOP Rep. Lauren Boebert after she said threatening letters sent to those displaying MAGA flags will not be tolerated in Colorados 4th District.

Americans are free to express their political views, Boebert wrote on X, a nod to the First Amendment which prevents the government from restricting free speech. MAGA is a movement of the people and we will not allow our people to be intimidated into silence. Fly your banner proudly!

Threatening letter sent to northern Colorado family over MAGA banner

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The representative, who represents Colorados 4th District, made the statements stemming from a FOX31 article published on Feb. 28, wherein a Severance family spoke about a threatening letter they had received in response to a Make America Great Again banner in their front yard.

The sign in their front yard reads This is ultra MAGA country. A family member said the letter was delivered to their mailbox on Wednesday, and said they have no plans to take the banner down.

The typed letter said that if the residents keep putting them (MAGA flags) up for everyone to see that someone might accidentally burn your house down. The family turned over the letter and envelope to the Severance Police Department in hopes of finding out who threatened them.

I agree with @laurenboebert on this, Polis wrote in a quote post on X. A MAGA flag, just like a Pride flag or Dont Tread on Me flag, is a Constitutionally protected form of free speech and no one should ever be intimidated into silence.

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Boebert has been vocal about protection of free speech, and vocal that the U.S. flag should be the flag used by government agencies. Boebert previously proposed an amendment to the U.S. House Rules Financial Services Appropriations Division that would prevent the White House from flying any flag except the U.S. flag and preventing any rainbow flag lighting at the White House or vice presidents residence.

This would mean everything: Castle Rock woman searching for living kidney donor

She was also seen at a campus protest at George Washington University on May 1, 2024, where she tried to remove a Palestinian flag draped across a statue of George Washington. She told those around her to also try and remove the flag, according to reporting from The Hill, and said the statue was federal property. She also reportedly threatened to try to withhold federal funding if faculty didnt address the flag.

If the faculty here, who many are involved in this right now  I had people proudly saying that they are faculty  and not wanting to remove a Palestinian sign from the George Washington statue. If they dont want to do something to address this? Well, then kiss your federal funding goodbye, Boebert said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
A motorcyclist enjoys the view from Bird Woman Falls Overlook along Going-to-the-Sun Road. (Photo via Glacier National Park)

A poll released last month confirmed support for conservation policies is high among Montanans, and a majority of voters are concerned over the future of public lands, clean air and water  positions at odds with actions taken by many of Montanas elected officials, who dont want industry bogged down with regulation.

However, Montanans views on climate change have drastically shifted over the last year, with the percentage saying climate change is not a problem at its highest level since 2020.

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Thats according to the 15th-annual Colorado Colleges Conservation in the West Poll, which surveyed the views of Montanans and voters in seven other western states  Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. The bipartisan survey was conducted by Republican pollster Lori Weigel of New Bridge Strategy and Democratic pollster Dave Metz of Fairbank, Maslin, Maullin, Metz & Associates.

Results from the poll show high overall support for conservation initiatives across the West, with many stances crossing state, partisan and demographic lines. Of the Montanans surveyed, 40% of respondents self-described as conservative, 41% self-described as moderate, and 18% as liberal.

The consensus favoring public lands conservation remains consistent and strong in the West, Katrina Miller-Stevens, former director of the State of the Rockies Project, which runs the annual poll, said in a statement. Westerners do not want to see a rollback of national monument protections, and there is no mandate for oil and gas development. Voters from all political ideologies are united in support of public land conservation in the West.

Following the 2024 election, which put Republican President Donald Trump in office with a GOP-controlled Congress, pollsters asked voters how they view conservation issues around clean air, clean water, public lands and wildlife compared to other key issues like oil and gas development and the economy. Across the spectrum, 72% of voters said they prefer their elected officials in Congress place more emphasis on protecting water, air quality, wildlife habitat and recreation opportunities rather than maximizing domestic energy development  the highest percent in poll history. In Montana, 68% of voters responded the same way, a single-point drop from the 2024 survey, and the lowest of all western states except Wyoming.

On specific policy proposals, Montanans overwhelmingly favored pro-conservation initiatives, including requiring oil and gas companies pay for clean-up and land restoration costs (95%); putting conservation on a higher priority level than oil and gas drilling (78%); allowing private landowners to create conservation easements (92%); opposing reducing protections for species listed under the Endangered Species Act (63%); and letting career professionals such as rangers, scientists and firefighters make decisions about public lands, water, and wildlife rather than newly appointed officials (86%).

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However, Montanans views on climate change have shifted from last year, with only 63% of respondents saying climate change is an issue, a 10% drop from 2024, and the lowest level since 2020. Roughly the same portion  65%  of Montanans said they support reducing carbon pollution that contributes to climate change. Last year, the Montana Supreme Court ruled to uphold a decision in the Held v. Montana court case that found Montanans right to a clean and healthful environment included a right to a stable climate system.

In response, a series of bills is currently passing through the Montana Legislature aimed at altering the Montana Environmental Policy Act, some which would limit state agencies from basing permitting decisions on environmental analyses.

Several questions related to policy proposals have been spotlighted by the federal government in recent weeks.

Thousands of federal workers have been laid off by the Trump administration since Valentines Day, including many working at public lands agencies. But respondents to the poll showed overwhelming support and approval for agencies tasked with overseeing national forests, parks, and other public land.

Voters overwhelmingly approve of the work done by the National Park Service (86%), U.S. Forest Service (79%), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (75%) and the Bureau of Land Management (62%). Three quarters of all voters said they oppose cutting funding for those agencies.

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A majority of all voters  83% of Republicans and 97% of Democrats  said national monuments should keep existing protections. During President Trumps first term, he reduced the size of two monuments in Utah, and federal officials last month announced a review of national monument boundaries.

Another question asked whether voters support expanding commercial logging operations by private companies on national forest and other public lands. Fifty-five percent of Montanans  60% of all western respondents  opposed expanding logging operations.

But over the weekend, President Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to examine ways to bypass environmental regulations, including endangered species protections, to ramp up timber production across 280 million acres of national forests and other public lands, according to the New York Times.

Among all those surveyed, one in 10 reported visiting national public lands in the last year, with 42% visiting at least six times.

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This is something that really makes this region of the country unique, pollster Dave Metz said during a press call. The large amount of public lands and its accessibility to areas of all the population centers in these states really makes it something that is not just an abstract concept to voters in the west, its something thats part of their day to day lives and its a central part of what they enjoy about living in the west.

The 2025 Colorado College Conservation in the West Poll surveyed at least 400 registered voters in each of the eight western states  404 Montanans  for a total sample size of 3,316 voters, which included an over-sample of Black and Native American voters. The survey was conducted between Jan. 3 and Jan. 17. The polls effective margin of error is +2.46% at the 95% confidence interval for the total sample, and, at most, +4.9% for each state. The poll is funded by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.

The full survey and individual state surveys are available on the State of the Rockies website.
The Vatican said Monday evening that Pope Francis had suffered "two episodes of acute respiratory failure" over the course of the day, which it said were caused by "significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm."

The statement said doctors carried out two bronchoscopies to relieve his respiratory distress.

In its early Tuesday update, the Vatican said: "The pope slept through the night, now rest continues."

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The Vatican said Monday that, "In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed," noting that Francis remained alert and aware and that his prognosis after more than two weeks of hospitalization for bronchitis that deteriorated into pneumonia in both lungs remained "guarded."

The pope, who is 88 and has a long history of pulmonary trouble, has struggled to get over this illness, leading to the longest hospitalization of his pontificate.

Before spending a restful weekend without any crises, Francis experienced a "sudden worsening of the respiratory picture" on Friday, the Vatican said, when he had a single "isolated crisis of bronchospasm," which is when the muscles that line the airways in the lungs tighten.

That episode caused the pope to inhale vomit, the Vatican said in a statement. Francis was treated with noninvasive mechanical ventilation and had a good response, the Vatican said Friday.

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Not long before the Vatican revealed his Friday bronchospasm, Vatican sources told CBS News the pope's health had improved, saying he was not in critical condition after exactly two weeks in hospital.

The bilateral pneumonia diagnosis given to the pope on February 18 would have been a worrying turn for any patient of his age, but it was of particular concern for the leader of the Catholic Church.

This is the pope's fourth hospitalization since he took over leadership of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013. He underwent significant abdominal surgery in 2021 and then had another procedure in 2023 to repair scar tissue and an abdominal hernia. He had been hospitalized briefly for treatment for pneumonia earlier that year.

As a young man in his home country of Argentina, Francis had part of one lung removed following a pulmonary infection, which left him vulnerable to respiratory illnesses.

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The Vatican announced earlier this month that Francis wouldn't celebrate Sunday Mass at St. Peter's Basilica this year, due to his ongoing recovery. The pope's ongoing hospitalization comes just ahead of the start of the annual Christian observance of Lent. The 40-day Lenten period begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year falls on March 5.

Just before Easter last year, Francis declined to attend a Good Friday procession at Rome's Colosseum in a bid to conserve his health, but the pope later led tens of thousands of worshipers in Easter celebrations.

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By Lucila Sigal

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Argentines have long waited for Pope Francis to visit the homeland he left in 2013 to become the head of the Roman Catholic Church. With his health delicate as he battles double pneumonia, the return seems increasingly unlikely now to happen.

Pope Francis, 88, has been in a critical condition due to a lung infection. His two weeks in Rome's Gemelli hospital is the longest stay of his papacy and underscores his frailty.

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Francis has made more than 45 international trips during his papacy, including the first by any pope to Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Myanmar, North Macedonia, Bahrain and Mongolia.

But the one-time archbishop of Buenos Aires has never returned to Argentina.

"One of the great curiosities of his papacy was the fact that, unlike his predecessors, Francis never visited his native country," Jimmy Burns, author of the 2015 biography "Francis, Pope of Good Promise" said.

Burns said he believed Francis did not want to be seen siding either with the left-leaning Peronists or the conservatives in the country's polarized political environment.

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"Any visit would try and be exploited by one side or the other, and he would unwittingly fuel those divisions," he said.

Many in Argentina anticipated a visit to the country shortly after Francis took office and visited Brazil. There was again chatter about a trip last year. But in both cases the visit never materialized.

Guillermo Marco, former spokesman for the pope when he was Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, told Reuters it had been a "wasted opportunity" for Argentina. Francis, he said, had a "tango soul" - a reference to the music and dance that has its origins in the back streets of Buenos Aires.

"He would have liked to (come) if he could have made a simple trip, let's say, where he came to visit the people he loves and, I don't know, celebrate a mass for the people," said Marco, who retains a close relationship with Francis.

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"But he is fully aware there is a whole network of supporters and detractors who are fighting over him."

In September, the pope told journalists he had wanted to go to Argentina, saying "they are my people," but that "various matters had to be resolved first."

Maximo Jurcinovic, a spokesman for the Argentine bishops' conference, said the Church was focused on praying for the pope's health and would not comment on other matters.

Marco said Francis had sounded tired when he spoke to him in late January.

"He is 88 years old and then you add to those 88 years the worries and pace of life that he tries to lead," he said.

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"It's like he has a willpower, a spiritual strength that God gives him that makes his body do things, but his body is already telling him: 'I can't.' That's a bit what happened to him now."

'THE CHORUS IS DIVIDED'

During his papacy, the first ever by a Latin American pope, Argentina has been rocked by repeat economic crises and political volatility. The current government is led by President Javier Milei, who has helped stabilize the economy but implemented tough austerity measures. Milei once called Francis the devil's representative on Earth, though has patched things up since coming into office.

Some said Francis should have visited regardless of the political environment over the years.

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"The chorus is divided. There are those who say that he should have come anyway because it would have helped close the political rift a little," said Sergio Rubin, Argentine journalist and co-author of papal biography "The Jesuit".

Rogelio Pfirter, ambassador to the Vatican from 2016 to 2019 and a one-time student of Bergoglio at a Jesuit school in Argentina, said Francis' drive to boost inclusivity in the Church had been the pope's priority.

"I have no doubt that everything Argentine and the homeland itself is something that has a special place in his head and in his heart," he told Reuters. But one of the pope's greatest legacies has been "making a papacy for everyone," said Pfirter.

"From the pope's perspective, it has probably been much more important to travel to the Pacific, travel to Africa, travel to some other Latin American countries than to visit regions where the Church already has a strong position."

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Many of Argentina's faithful would still have liked to welcome Francis home and remember him as Bergoglio, born in 1936 in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrants.

"That the pope has not come until now hurts me, it hurts me a little," said Claudia Nudel, at a recent mass in Buenos Aires to pray for the pope's recovery.

Silvia Leda, 70, also at the mass, said: "I would have liked him to come, but I think the most important thing is what he can do for the world."

(Reporting by Lucila Sigal; Additional reporting by Horacio Soria and Lucinda Elliott; Editing by Adam Jourdan and Rosalba O'Brien)
ROME (AP)  Pope Francis suffered two new episodes of acute respiratory crises Monday and was put back on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican said.

Francis had inhaled copious amounts of mucus in another setback in what has become a more than two-week battle to overcome a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia.

In a late update, the Vatican said the episodes were caused by a significant accumulation of mucus in his lungs and bronchial spasms. Two bronchoscopies were performed with the need for aspiration of copious secretions, the Vatican said.

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Francis remained alert, oriented and cooperated with medical personnel. The prognosis remained guarded.

Earlier Monday, Pope Francis issued a new message from the hospital as Vatican officials begged him to let his voice be heard after disappearing from public view for over two weeks as he recovers.

Francis, 88, denounced the progressive irrelevance of international organizations to combat war as he remained at Romes Gemelli hospital in stable condition. He was up, had breakfast and was receiving therapies after sleeping well all night long, the Vatican said.

The Vatican hasnt released any photos or videos of Francis since before he entered the hospital on Feb. 14 with a complex lung infection. This has become the longest absence of his 12-year papacy.

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The Vatican has provided brief, twice-daily medical updates on his condition, and Francis has begun signing off on documents with From Gemelli Polyclinic in an indication that he is up and working.

The Vatican has defended Francis decision to recover in peace and out of the public eye. But on Monday one of Francis closest friends at the Vatican, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, urged him to let his voice be heard, saying the world needs to hear it.

We need men like him who are truly universal and not only one-sided, Paglia said, speaking after a press conference to launch the annual assembly of his Pontifical Academy for Life, the Vaticans bioethics academy, which has as this years theme The End of the World?

Francis wrote a message to the assembly, dated Feb. 26, in which he lamented that international organizations are increasingly ineffective to combat the threats facing the world and are being undermined by short-sighted attitudes concerned with protecting particular and national interests.

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Its a theme he has articulated before. Francis also has repeatedly called for peace between Russia and Ukraine while trying to maintain the Vaticans traditional diplomatic neutrality, and has tried to achieve a similar balancing act for Israels war with Hamas in Gaza.

Even a Vatican ambassador not especially close to Francis, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, said the faithful needed to hear his voice at a time when war is raging in Europe. Gaenswein was Pope Benedict XVIs longtime secretary, and Francis exiled him to be the Vatican ambassador in the Baltics after he published a memoir in 2023 that was critical of Francis.

Pope Francis voice is of vital importance for all the world because hes the only authority who speaks of peace, who condemns war, all the wars under way starting with Ukraine, La Repubblica quoted Gaenswein as saying.

Francis 17-night hospitalization is by no means reaching the papal record that was set during St. John Paul IIs numerous lengthy hospitalizations over a quarter century.

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A seminarist prays at the statue of John Paul II outside the Gemelli University Hospital where Pope Francis is hospitalized with pneumonia, in Rome on March 03, 2025 Credit - Courtesy of Getty Images

Pope Francis suffered two new episodes of acute respiratory crises Monday and was put back on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican said.

Francis had inhaled copious amounts of mucus in another setback in what has become a more than two-week battle to overcome a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia.

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In a late update, the Vatican said the episodes were caused by a significant accumulation of mucus in his lungs and bronchial spasms. Two bronchoscopies were performed with the need for aspiration of copious secretions, the Vatican said.

Francis remained alert, oriented and cooperated with medical personnel. The prognosis remained guarded.

Earlier Monday, Pope Francis issued a new message from the hospital as Vatican officials begged him to let his voice be heard after disappearing from public view for over two weeks as he recovers.

Francis, 88, denounced the progressive irrelevance of international organizations to combat war as he remained at Rome's Gemelli hospital in stable condition. He was up, had breakfast and was receiving therapies after sleeping well all night long," the Vatican said.

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The Vatican hasnt released any photos or videos of Francis since before he entered the hospital on Feb. 14 with a complex lung infection. This has become the longest absence of his 12-year papacy.

The Vatican has provided brief, twice-daily medical updates on his condition, and Francis has begun signing off on documents with From Gemelli Polyclinic in an indication that he is up and working.

The Vatican has defended Francis decision to recover in peace and out of the public eye. But on Monday one of Francis' closest friends at the Vatican, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, urged him to let his voice be heard, saying the world needs to hear it.

We need men like him who are truly universal and not only one-sided, Paglia said, speaking after a press conference to launch the annual assembly of his Pontifical Academy for Life, the Vaticans bioethics academy, which has as this year's theme The End of the World?

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Francis wrote a message to the assembly, dated Feb. 26, in which he lamented that international organizations are increasingly ineffective to combat the threats facing the world and are being undermined by short-sighted attitudes concerned with protecting particular and national interests.

Its a theme he has articulated before. Francis also has repeatedly called for peace between Russia and Ukraine while trying to maintain the Vaticans traditional diplomatic neutrality, and has tried to achieve a similar balancing act for Israels war with Hamas in Gaza.

Even a Vatican ambassador not especially close to Francis, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, said the faithful needed to hear his voice at a time when war is raging in Europe. Gaenswein was Pope Benedict XVIs longtime secretary, and Francis exiled him to be the Vatican ambassador in the Baltics after he published a memoir in 2023 that was critical of Francis.

Pope Francis voice is of vital importance for all the world because hes the only authority who speaks of peace, who condemns war, all the wars under way starting with Ukraine," La Repubblica quoted Gaenswein as saying.

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Francis' 17-night hospitalization is by no means reaching the papal record that was set during St. John Paul IIs numerous lengthy hospitalizations over a quarter century.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Pope Francis suffered two respiratory attacks on Monday, more than two weeks into a hospital stay for pneumonia.

Doctors had to intervene to extract a large build-up of mucus from the lungs of the 88 year-old, who is battling double pneumonia in the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.

Today, the Holy Father experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm, the Vatican said in a statement released on Monday evening.

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The medical team looking after him intervened to help him breathe. The Pope, who has been in hospital since Feb 14, was put back on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican said.

Despite the acute breathing difficulties, the Pope remained alert and co-operated fully with doctors, the Holy See said. His prognosis remains guarded.

The latest respiratory crisis appeared to be another significant setback in the Popes attempts to recover from bronchitis and pneumonia in both lungs.

A nun prays outside the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where the Pope is being treated - Guglielmo Mangiapane/Reuters

He has not been seen in public since being admitted to hospital more than two weeks ago. Nor has the Vatican released any photographs or video of him.

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Although he has been taken to hospital in the past, this is the longest absence from public life during his 12-year-long papacy and there is speculation that he might resign or that the end of his life is approaching.

The Vatican insisted the Pope was working and making decisions, despite the medical problems that confront him. He has taken to signing off official documents with the words From Gemelli Polyclinic, the Rome hospital which has cared for a succession of ailing pontiffs.

But medical experts said the latest breathing attacks were a worrying sign.

The situation continues to be critical, said Fabrizio Pregliasco, a leading Italian virologist who rose to prominence during the Covid-19 pandemic.

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It is clear that if things dont improve, one possibility would be the necessity of intubation. But we just have to wait to see whether the antibiotic treatment works.

A mural shows the Pope in a corridor of the Gemelli Hospital where he is being treated - Remo Casilli/Reuters

Senior Vatican figures have lamented the fact that the Pope is ill at a time when the world needs his voice of moderation on conflicts such as Ukraine and Gaza.

Pope Franciss voice is of vital importance for all the world because hes the only authority who speaks of peace, who condemns war, all the wars under way starting with Ukraine, said Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, the Vaticans ambassador to Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

Im praying for the Holy Father every day. Like millions of people are doing around the world, I pray that he gets better very soon, he told La Repubblica newspaper.

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Archbishop Gaenswein was for many years personal secretary to Pope Benedict XVI. He was exiled to the Baltics after he published a memoir in 2023 that was critical of Pope Francis.

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Pope Francis suffered two episodes of "acute respiratory insufficiency" and was put back on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican said on Monday evening.

The muscles in his airways had spasmed, similar to the breathing crisis the pontiff suffered on Friday, a statement said.

The latest episodes resulted in two bronchoscopies being performed that removed "large secretions" of mucus.

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"In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed. The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times. The prognosis remains guarded," the statement said.

From his inner circle, it was said that the pope's condition was "fragile." "This is not a situation where one can declare that he is out of danger," they said.

His doctors have not given more detailed comments on his treatment and condition.

From Francis' circle, it was said that blood values had not deteriorated and the infection had not worsened.

The head of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide has been treated as an inpatient at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome since February 14 - longer than ever before.

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The pope is suffering from bilateral pneumonia caused by various pathogens, which is considered very critical by doctors given his advanced age.

Additionally, he had a part of his right lung removed during an operation in his native Argentina at a young age. At 88 years old, Francis is the second oldest pope in history.

Since his admission on February 14, the public has not seen Francis. Other popes, such as the late John Paul II in 2005, allowed themselves to be photographed even in their hospital beds.

Francis has a packed schedule due to the Jubilee Year 2025 but is often represented by cardinals.

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The Vatican has repeatedly emphasized, however, that Francis is working from the hospital. He appointed new bishops and continued with his work, according to the Vatican. On Monday evening, it was not mentioned whether he was able to work.

He has now met twice with the Vatican's second-in-command, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, who is managing day-to-day affairs at the Vatican.

There is significant sympathy among the faithful worldwide. Every evening, numerous people gather at St Peter's Square to recite the Rosary for Francis. Each evening, a different senior Church official leads the service.

Wishes for recovery have also come from abroad. Georg Ganswein, the long-time confidant of the late pope Benedict XVI, told the Italian newspaper La Repubblica he prays every day for a speedy and complete recovery.

The German cleric currently serves as the Vatican's ambassador in the Baltics. Their relationship has long been considered tense.
A southside bakery and restaurant burned down over the weekend, and the cause is still under investigation by fire officials.

On Saturday just after 5 a.m., the Oklahoma City Fire Department responded to La Oaxaquena Bakery & Restaurant, which is located near the intersection of SW 29 and Western.

Photos of the structure posted online show the interior completely burned out, with scorch damage extending to the building's exterior.

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The OKC Fire Department said the building was unoccupied at the time, and no injuries were reported. The business sustained significant damage with estimated losses totaling $325,000.

The popular bakery is drawing support from members of the community on social media.

La Oaxaquena Bakery & Restaurant, which burned down over the weekend.Monday, March 3, 2025.

La Oaxaquena Bakery & Restaurant, which burned down over the weekend.Monday, March 3, 2025.

La Oaxaquena Bakery & Restaurant, which burned down over the weekend.Monday, March 3, 2025.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Popular south OKC bakery gutted by weekend fire, OKCFD investigating
Rachel Gabel writes about agriculture and rural issues. She is assistant editor of The Fence Post Magazine, the regions preeminent agriculture publication.
BOARDMAN, Ohio (WKBN)  Potential Development held its Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off on Sunday.

It was the 14th year for the event and was held at Mr. Anthonys in Boardman. WKBN and WYTV were sponsors of the event, and our very own Jim Loboy was the emcee.

The cook-off is Potential Developments largest fundraiser of the year. All the money raised goes right back into the classroom to support students with autism and developmental disabilities.

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The continued support of the community has been tremendous. To have an event for a nonprofit go over 15 years and have well over 1,000 people come out is  there hasnt been a bit of drop off in interest of the event or Potential Development overall, said Paul Garchar with Potential Development.

Nicolinnis won best traditional pizza, while Tangiers won best gourmet pizza. Belleria had the best briar hill pizza, and Bruno Brothers had the best overall pizza. Coccas took home awards for both the best non-red pizza and the peoples choice.

There was also a basket raffle and auction.

Wilson Corbisello contributed to this report.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Major Solar-Plus-Storage Project Announced in Middle East. A solar-plus-storage project that could provide gigawatts of generation capacity was unveiled in January during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW). Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, minister of industry and advanced technology for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and chairman of state-owned renewables company Masdar, announced plans for the renewable energy power station plant at the opening ceremony of ADSW. The project would include 5.2 GW of solar photovoltaic generation with 19 GWh of battery energy storage capacity, which Al Jaber said would enable the plant to provide as much as 1 GW of baseload power on a continuous basis. The project will be based in Abu Dhabi, though the specific location was not announced. The installation will be delivered by Masdar and the state electricity and water procurement and supply entity Emirates Water & Electricity Co. with partners. Wartsila Engines Will Power Kazakhstan Power Plant. Technology group Wartsila said it will supply the engineered equipment for a new 120-MW power plant under construction in Kazakhstan. The order announced in January was placed by Kazakhstan Caspian Offshore Industries (KCOI) and booked by Wartsila in late 2024. The order includes six Wartsila 46TS-SG gas-fueled large bore engines, as well as mechanical and electrical auxiliary equipment. KCOI is the main contractor for the development of a major hybrid power project in the Mangystau region, which in addition to the engine power plant will include a 77-MW wind power plant and a 50-MW solar power plant. The project once commissioned will supply electricity to oil and gas exploration facilities in the region. Mirko Borghesi, CEO of KCOI, said it will be the first hybrid project of its type to be implemented in Kazakhstan. Delivery of the Wartsila equipment is scheduled by the end of this year, and the project is expected to be fully operational by the middle of next year. BESS Project Under Construction in Germany. France-headquartered Neoen, an independent power producer (IPP), in January said the company has started construction work on a 45-MW/90-MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) project in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. The installation is scheduled to enter commercial operation next year. The Arneburg Battery project is the first BESS installation for Neoen in Germany. The IPP will own 100% of the Arneburg Battery, and will also operate the project. Arneburg will participate in both intraday power trading and balancing services. Neoen said it has a robust pipeline of projects in Germany, with more than 1 GW of generation capacity at various stages of development. The company, which is set to be acquired by infrastructure investor Brookfield, has a global generation portfolio in operation or under construction of about 2.3 GW, with 5.3 GWh of energy storage. Neoen said it also is building the 93.9-MW Isbillen Power Reserve BESS project in Sweden, and the 56.4-MW BESS Yllikkala Power Reserve Two project in Finland. Major Pumped Storage Project Comes Online in China. Chinese officials in January said the Fengning Pumped Storage Power Station began commercial operation on Dec. 31, 2024. Officials said it is the largest pumped storage facility in the world and includes 12 reversible pump-turbine units, each with a capacity of 300 MW, including two variable-speed units, bringing the total installed capacity to 3.6 GW. It is designed to generate 6.61 TWh annually while consuming 8.71 TWh of electricity for pumping. It is connected to the North China power grid via four 500-kV transmission lines. The facility is located in Fengning County, Hebei Province, near Beijing and Tianjin, and in proximity to the 10-GW wind and solar power complex in Zhangjiakou. The storage project was developed by State Grid Xinyuan Group Co., a subsidiary of the State Grid Corp. of China. Officials said construction of the project took more than 11 years after starting in May 2013, and represents an investment of about $2.6 billion. Valmet Modernizing Heating Plant in Czech Republic. Valmet in late January said the company will support the modernization of SKO-ENERGOs heating plant in Mlada Boleslav, Czech Republic. The project includes converting two existing circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boilers from coal to biomass and delivering a new bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) boiler. The order also includes a flue gas cleaning system for the new boiler and modifications to the flue gas cleaning systems of the upgraded boilers. Valmet said that the new BFB boiler will compensate for the reduced capacity from the converted CFB boilers. The new boiler will work alongside the retrofitted equipment. Officials said the CFB boilers will burn a biomass mix of wood chips and agro-biomass pellets. The Mlada Boleslav plant supplies power to Skoda Autos manufacturing facilities, and provides heat for the town. SKO-ENERGO called the project a significant milestone in the companys efforts toward decarbonization. The project is expected to be completed by year-end 2027, with work done consecutively across a two-year time frame to ensure that the heat and power supply to the car manufacturing facility can continue without interruption. The new Valmet BFB will produce steam at a rate of 80 tons per hour using wood chips as fuel. The rebuilt CFBs, which delivered 140 tons of steam per hour when burning coal, will have a new capacity of 100 tons of steam per hour burning wood chips and biomass pellets. Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER.
BALTIMORE  Power was restored at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport on Monday after a fire near the airport caused outages in the main terminal, leading to delays and long lines.

A Maryland Aviation Administration spokesperson said that full power had been restored by around 11:15 a.m. after the outages killed power in the airports main terminal and hourly garage.

The outage shut down security for several hours and caused airlines to delay and divert flights. A total of 146 flights in and out of BWI had been delayed, according to the flight tracking website FlightAware.

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Our electrical team worked throughout the morning to restore power as quickly and safely as possible, MAA spokesperson Jonathan Dean said.

The outage was related to a fire and wires down in the area of West Baltimore & Annapolis Road and Park 100 Drive just south of the airport, according to a Baltimore Gas and Electric Co. spokesperson. Anne Arundel County Police posted on social media around 8:30 a.m. that the fire created a road closure.

After bringing power back online, BGE was working with the airport to ensure permanent resolution of any equipment issues, a spokesperson for the utility, Stephanie Weaver, said.

We will make an organized chaos line here, a Southwest desk agent said over the terminals P.A. system after power came back on. Just bear with us; were gonna start getting this line rocking and rolling here shortly.

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Leah McCormick arrived at BWI at around 9 a.m. to fly to Louisville  though her 11:20 a.m. flight ultimately got rescheduled for 9:30 p.m.

Its not the most convenient, she said.

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Baltimore Sun photographer Lloyd Fox contributed to this article.

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WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  President Donald Trump is gearing up for his joint address to Congress Tuesday night.

At the White House Monday, the president promised major announcements in his speech, including an update on the Ukrainian minerals deal that fell apart last week.

Ill let you know tomorrow night, President Trump said.

Republicans in Congress also expect to hear more concrete plans for their key priorities.

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To strengthen our economy, to make our streets safer and our nations healthier, said U.S. Rep. John Joyce (R-Pa.).

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) posted some preparations for the joint address on X, saying, Its going to be BIG!

Its going to be a MAGA pep rally, not a serious talk to the nation, U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) told CNNs State of the Union Sunday. Donald Trump is going to spew a series of lies.

While Murphy said he will skip the speech, other Democrats plan to attend to put a face on what they call the Trump administrations harmful funding freezes and firings.

You would think Mr. Musk might say, Hey, you know what, this is a great nation that has provided me these great opportunities. How about we care for them?' asked U.S. Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.).

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Larson will bring the mother of a cystic fibrosis patient as his guest to highlight medical research he said Elon Musk and DOGE want to cut.

The presidents speech starts at 9 p.m. ET.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore presenting Gore's National Performance Review outside of the White House. Credit - Cynthia JohnsonGetty Images

Before there was the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), there was Bill Clinton and Al Gores campaign to reinvent government.

As alarmed critics point to the unprecedented developments of DOGEs early weeksaggressive incursions into the U.S. governments multi-trillion dollar payment infrastructure, the abrupt defunding of USAID, racist comments by youthful engineers and the specter of mass layoffsElon Musk has claimed that the Gore-led efforts in the 1990s prefigured his own.

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In the 1990s, as now, an ascendant political movement fused Americas anti-bureaucracy ethos with new ideas about how the information superhighway would reroute the U.S. political and economic future and open up opportunities to reimagine government. Yet, DOGEs flurry of activity is a much more radical disruption than the principled reform attempted by Gore. This history suggests that, not only will Musk struggle to accomplish his goals, but meddling in the federal bureaucracy has real political risks.

Antipathy toward government bureaucracy has always been a strong current in American political culture. As the government grew in size after the 1930s, that antipathy only escalated, especially as conservatives rose in power in the 1970s and 1980s. And it wasnt just from Republicans. A new breed of New Democrats or Atari Democrats was concerned that the government had grown too big. They also saw Ronald Reagans political success as he preached the evils of government and bureaucracy, and concluded that shifting gears away from reflexively defending government programs and bureaucracy would be both good government and good politics.

By the late 1980s and 1990s, these Democrats saw an opportunity to mobilize Americans anti-bureaucracy politics by embracing the promise of a less bureaucratic New Economy." Democrats saw new technologies and emerging sectors in finance and telecommunications as an opportunity to finally rid the country of the bureaucratic forms that had defined much of the century. Ideas about Silicon Valleys whiz kid hackers, nimble startup cultures, and futuristic ventures, coupled with the allure of efficiency, came to dominate Democrats' political thinking in the 1990s.

Read More: Why Trump Is Trying to Downplay Musk's Role in Court

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In 1992, Clinton and Gore, both of whom belonged to this new crop of younger Democrats, ran an explicitly future oriented campaign, one literally set to Fleetwood Macs Dont Stop Thinking About Tomorrow. After winning, Clinton promised to pursue his ambitious agendafree trade, welfare reform, health care reform, technology policy, and deficit reductionwhile eschewing big government. He named Gore to lead a National Performance Review (NPR), which sought to remake the federal bureaucracy.

The effort was inspired by a 1992 book titled Reinventing Government: How the Entrepreneurial Spirit is Transforming the Public Sector, which served as a roadmap for government reform. It pledged to bash bureaucracies and harness concepts of competition, consumer choice, and administrative creativity to bring entrepreneurship to government. Gore recruited one of the books authors, journalist David Osborne, to become a senior adviser. The vice president created 30 distinct teams to translate books recommendations into reality and bring about historic change in the function of government. Six months later, on Sep. 7, 1993, Gore presented the first report from the NPR to Clinton at a White House ceremony.

Clinton and Gore immediately moved to use presidential directives and executive orders to implement many of the recommendations from the report. Where necessary, they requested that Congress pass legislation to implement other elements.

For example, the administration instructed agencies to post standards for customer service and to use them to measure performance. Gore also moved to overhaul the federal procurement processfreeing managers to buy what they needed more quickly, with an eye toward both efficiency and cutting costs. Additionally, he created reinvention laboratories within agencies where managers experimented with ways to deliver services more effectively. Finally, in an effort to reduce the size of government, an administration-backed buyout bill offered incentives for selected employees, identified by the agencies, to leave government.

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A follow up initiative in 1995 encouraged agencies to slash regulatory mechanisms, a process which led to the elimination of over 100,000 regulations. The vice president awarded hammer awards to federal employees who reinvented a piece of the government, and leaders and employees within departments, agencies, and commissionsincluding the State Department, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the commission on consumer safetyembraced the opportunity to improve the work of governing within their organizations.

By 1995, the Clinton administration boasted that it had shrunk the federal government by 12%, bringing the share of civilian federal jobs to its lowest point in decades. Some critics on the left were wary of the administrations employment of market logics and its tendency to treat citizens as consumers. Morale among public servants was also low.

But the program was among the Clinton Administration's few clear victories, as one observer put it. By the end of the decade, surveys found increasing satisfaction with the way government works.

Even so, questions remained about whether Gores ballyhooed effort actually increased government efficiency, or whether it just cut personnel. Critics expressed concern that downsizing had preceded any real strategic plan, leaving managers to perform jobs that if anything have grown. Quick public-opinion victories from cutting Federal employees would pale in comparison to the long-term performance problems, opponents of the effort warned. Even management theorist Peter F. Drucker, who had directly inspired the authors of Reinventing Government, decried that the program might amount to amputation without diagnosis. Such hasty efforts at downsizing consistently failed, Drucker warned, even in the private sector.

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The bigger problem for Gore, however, was that by attempting to tackle a gargantuan problem like government inefficiency through piecemeal reforms and voluntary retirements, some felt the administration had overpromised. Even if Clinton and Gore benefited from headlines about a shrinking federal workforce, over time their effort looked more like sizzle than seismic change. After all, as reporters noticed, counting bodies is easier than measuring improvements in performance.

Read More: Inside Elon Musks War on Washington

This was all too evident when Gore, who treasured the reformers spotlight in the 1990s, hit the presidential campaign trail in 2000. They havent reinvented government bureaucracytheyve just reshuffled it, his opponent George W. Bush quipped in June 2000. Worse still, citing a General Accounting Office report, Bush suggested that two-thirds of the administrations claimed cost savings could not be verified.

After Bush narrowly beat Gore, the impermanence of reinventing governments signature achievementa reduced workforcebecame almost immediately clear. Between 2002 and 2005 alone, wartime demands led the Bush administration to add nearly 2.5 million employees to the federal workforce, many of them contractors.

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Gores efforts amounted to some reforms and lots of hype, but it did little to prevent the regrowth of the bureaucracy. The downsizing it did accomplish simply resulted in the government resorting to a shadow bureaucracy of contractors. Politically, the reformers became vulnerable to critiques from the partys left wing and from the beneficiaries of government programs. The focus on reform also stoked anti-government sentiments, which ultimately constrained Democrats and benefitted conservative Republicans, who were seen as the true opponents of government.

A quarter century later, DOGE pledges to reinvent government again. The MAGA coalition of national conservatives and Silicon Valley builders echo the anti-bureaucratic and techno-futurism that shaped the New Democrats. In a striking parallel to the 1990s, epochal thinking about the potentialities of a high technology society has once again upended politics.

Yet, there are several crucial differences between the two efforts. The New Democrats of the 1990s were not fundamentally hostile to the government or its employees. Reinventing Government asserted from the outset that government employees werent the problem. As Osborne and his coauthor stressed: Our purpose is not to criticize government, [...] but to renew it.

DOGE, by contrast, has so far been focused on slashing government rather than reinventing it. Musk has bragged about feeding life-saving agencies, such as USAID, into the wood chipper, and he and President Trump have pledged to dismantle agencies and departments, including the Department of Education. To date, DOGE has spent more time dedicated to breaking up government rather than trying to reform it.

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But to the degree that DOGE is following the New Democrats playbook for Reinventing Government, the history indicates that there is good reason to doubt that it will bring real improvement. We have already seen the Trump administration scramble to rehire axed employees and reports indicate that GOP lawmakers, facing angry voters at town halls, are panicking in private. Musk himselfa special government employee whose companies have received billions in federal contractsis attracting severe public scrutiny over conflicts of interest. Plus, new reports suggest that DOGE has exaggerated claims about the savings it has produced.

If public response to Clinton and Gore's reform efforts are any indication, it is possible that American clamor for reform could swing the other way.

Made by History takes readers beyond the headlines with articles written and edited by professional historians. Learn more about Made by History at TIME here. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of TIME editors.

Jacob Bruggeman is a PhD candidate in history at Johns Hopkins and a graduate fellow at the SNF Agora Institute. Jacob is currently completing his dissertation, Securing the System: Phone Phreaks, Computer Hackers, and Political Order in Modern America, 1963-2013.

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Casey Eilbert is a postdoctoral fellow at the SNF Agora Institute at Johns Hopkins University. She defended her dissertation, Conceptualizing The 'Iron Cage': Bureaucracy in Modern America, in the history department at Princeton University in 2024.

Write to Made by History at madebyhistory@time.com.
The Capitols phone lines have been overwhelmed this month, and some Democrats are complaining about the deluge of calls from voters who implore them to fight the Trump administration. Too often the responses to the calls have amounted to passing the buck rightward.

It's been a constant theme of us saying, Please call the Republicans," Virginia Democratic Rep. Don Beyer explained. Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., is offended by what hes hearing from constituents. I reject and resent the implication that congressional Democrats are simply standing by passively, he said.

Such reactions are political copouts. Those two congressmembers represent deep-blue districts, and both of their states are represented by Democratic senators. Responding to outraged constituents by telling them to call the Republicans is a way of dodging responsibility and accountability.

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It's easy enough for Torres, Beyer and others in the Democratic caucus to gripe about the volume of irate calls to their offices. And at first glance, telling constituents to contact Republicans instead might seem logical. But thats actually a way of telling an angry Democratic base not to be a nuisance to Democratic lawmakers.

Whats more, as a practical matter, their constituents often have no way to message GOP members of Congress. The congressional email system doesnt allow non-constituents to send a message to a representative or senator. And the first thing that a staffer wants to confirm on the phone is whether the caller is in fact a constituent.

Fully half of the nations citizens  and a large majority of Democrats  live in states with two Democratic senators. And so, routinely, when Democratic officeholders say that their agitated constituents should leave them alone and call the Republicans, it amounts to a brushoff that can be translated from politician-talk as Stop bugging us already.

But in primaries next year, some are liable to be held accountable. Few serving Democrats with blue electorates will face tight races in the 2026 general election  but if theyre perceived as wimps who failed to really put up a fight against President Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk, incumbents risk facing primary challenges propelled by grassroots anger.

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The anger might seem overheated inside Capitol Hill bubbles. But its real for millions of engaged activists  the ones who volunteer in droves and can get behind insurgency campaigns with plenty of fundraising, canvassing power and social-media impacts.

Mere shrugs from Democrats that theyre in the minority wont wash. The rules of the Senate are designed to protect the rights of the minority, and Democrats have tools to grind Senate business to a halt to delay and defy the Trump-Musk coup, the activist group Indivisible points out. The three biggest weapons? Blanket opposition, quorum calls, and blocking unanimous consent  parliamentary guerrilla tactics that can slow, stall, and obstruct at every turn.

The needed opposition goes way beyond procedural maneuvers. The tenor and vehemence of public statements every day, from the hundreds of Democrats in the House and Senate, set a tone and convey messages beyond mere words on paper and screens.

The week after Trumps return to the Oval Office, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) traveled to California and met with donor powerhouses in Silicon Valley, where he reportedly said Democrats were reaching toward the center, while Trump will swing harder right. Here we have the prospective next House speaker pledging to move in the direction of a president whom Gen. Mark Milley has described as fascist to the core.

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Jeffries goal of hugging the center may play well with rich tech executives, but it shows notable indifference to the large bulk of Democratic voters. Early this month, CBS News reported that its polling shows the nation's rank-and-file Democrats are increasingly looking for more opposition to President Trump from their congressional delegation. The trend has been emphatic. Only 35 percent want Democrats in Congress to try to find common ground with Trump, while 65 percent want them to oppose Trump as much as possible.

A rally last Thursday at Jeffries central Brooklyn office drew hundreds of protesters. One of them, Molly Ornati, an activist with the group 350 Brooklyn Water, told Salon: Hes acting as though this is a normal part of the political process, when this is a completely never before seen violation of the Constitution, of federal laws, separation of power, democratic principle  all of the key American values. Hes not standing up with the level of outrage that people meant to see, that Democrats want to see.

The next day, on his latest California trip, Jeffries spoke in the Bay Area and generated headlines like Hundreds Protest Outside Event With House Minority Leader and Oakland to Hakeem Jeffries: Do Your Job! One of the local TV news reports summed up a theme of the demonstration this way: Democratic Party has been paying lip service to the working class.

To most registered Democrats, theres nothing more important for lawmakers with a D after their names to do than battle tooth-and-nail against the Trump-Musk agenda for gutting the government while enriching the wealthy at everyone elses expense. While Trumps forces are setting fire to the basic structures of American democracy, Democrats in Congress are widely perceived to be wielding squirt guns. Thats no way to prevent tyranny or win the next elections.
At Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond's request, convicted killer George John Hanson was transferred back to Oklahoma from a federal prison in Louisiana to carry out his death sentence. Drummond is pictured Feb. 25 in Oklahoma City. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY  A prisoner convicted of killing a 77-year-old Oklahoma woman was transferred back to the state Sunday to carry out his death sentence later this year.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond requested in January that George John Hanson, 60, be transferred back to Oklahoma from Louisiana where he was serving a separate life sentence for an unrelated robbery.

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Hanson could face a June execution date for the 1999 murder of 77-year-old Mary Bowles, a retired banker. Prosecutors said he kidnapped Bowles from a Tulsa mall and later killed her at a dirt pit near Owasso according to a news release.

A bystander who witnessed the murder, Jerald Max Thurman, was killed by Hansons accomplice, Victor Cornell Miller. Hanson received a life sentence without parole for his role in Thurmans death.

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi granted Drummonds request Feb. 13, and the transfer was completed Sunday.

For the family and friends of Mary Bowles, the wait for justice has been a long and frustrating one, Drummond said in a statement. While the Biden Administration inexplicably protected this vicious killer from the execution chamber, I am grateful President Trump and Attorney General Bondi recognized the importance of this murderer being back in Oklahoma so justice can be served.

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Drummond requested the transfer after President Donald Trumps executive order instructing the implementation of capital punishment sentences.

Drummonds office is expected to ask the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals to schedule Hanson for execution later this year.

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Pro-Palestine protestors blocked many of the same streets used to get to the 2025 Oscars on Sunday, slowing traffic ahead of the ceremonys start.

The protest took place at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, where cars and limousines must turn on their way to the Dolby Theatre. The Hollywood Reporter learned that authorities closed several nearby streets because of the activity, and at least one THR staffer attending Sundays ceremony noted that traffic was barely moving.

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One social media post from human rights organization Code Pink noted they were outside of the Oscars in LA protesting against Hollywoods complicity in Israels genocide against the Palestinian people. A press release from the organization later noted that the LAPD began arresting one of the activists, but that the person was eventually let go. Though CodePinks release noted that protestors complied with authorities, the group was ticketed with a required court visit for failing to disperse.

Another source told THR that the Los Angeles Police Department had increased their security measures for this years ceremony, after protests last year  also for Palestine  slowed access to the red carpet. The protests this year have not disrupted the ceremonys timing, and many of the nights biggest expected stars, including Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, have already arrived.

Last years Oscars ceremony began six minutes late as a result of the protests, which brought traffic to a complete standstill at Sunset and Highland for more than 30 minutes. Attendees left their vehicles and began walking toward the event on the side of the road.

The Israel-Hamas war remains a prominent issue for Hollywood in 2025. Last week, Artists4Ceasefire sent a letter urging attendees to wear red hand pins in support of Gaza. The Brigade, a PR group, fired back at the request, after the release of the bodies of the youngest hostages killed by Hamas Oct. 7 attack. Artists4Ceasefire said the pins are meant to symbolize the urgency of the call to save lives. The orange hand conveys the beautiful community of people from all backgrounds that have come together in support of centering our shared humanity. The heart being cradled in the center of the hand is an invitation for us to lead with our hearts, always, to lead with love.

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The Brigade represents over 700 members and wrote in response that the hand is no symbol of peace. It is the emblem of Jewish bloodshed.

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Pro-Palestine protestors bearing signs and shouting slogans blocked traffic outside the Dolby Theatre on Sunday, just hours before the start of the 2025 Oscars broadcast.

The Academy Awards ceremony is set to begin at 7 p.m. ET, 4 p.m. Pacfic.

The protests were organized by anti-war leftist organization Code Pink. Demonstrators marched at the intersection of Highland Ave. and De Longpre Ave., about 2 blocks south of Hollywood Blvd., which has been blocked off entirely for the Academy Awards and is 0nly accessible by attendees, production workers and law enforcement.

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Protesters carried signs that read Hollywood censors Palestinian voices and Stop killing Gaza and also waved Palestinian flags.

Photo by Sharon Waxman for TheWrap

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Photo by Sharon Waxman for TheWrap

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Code Pink is described as a pro-peace leftist organization that typically focuses on the Israel-Hamas war, human rights abuses in Saudi Arabia, the Iran nuclear deal, and more.

NOW: We are outside of the Oscars in LA protesting against Hollywood's complicity in Israel's genocide against the Palestinian people. pic.twitter.com/HlOvxaZDB0  CODEPINK (@codepink) March 2, 2025

We are outside of the Oscars in LA protesting against Hollywoods complicity in Israels genocide against the Palestinian people, the organization wrote in a post shared on X.

The protest was announced on X Sunday morning. LA: PROTEST THE OSCARS! Join us outside of the Oscars today as we call out the city for its abysmal response to the fires & for Hollywoods complicity in US-Israeli genocide against the people of Palestine, the organization wrote.

Last years ceremony was also delayed by Pro-Palestine protesters who blocked the routes to Dolby. Protestors held signs and banners with messages including Silence is violence, keep talking about Palestine and U.S. out of everywhere. Down with U.S. imperialism.

The post Pro-Palestinian Protestors Block Traffic to Oscars Near Dolby Theatre appeared first on TheWrap.
Protesters rally outside of the Theodore Roosevelt Federal Building headquarters of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management on Feb. 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Like many a few weeks ago, Travis Pettit was taking advantage of the three-day weekend because of Presidents Day at his home in Stanley, Virginia.

Then the call came around noon.

It was a federal holiday. I was running some errands and my supervisor called my personal cell phone, said Pettit. She said, Hey, you know, Im calling to give you an informal heads up that we received a list of probationary employees who are being terminated and your name is on them.

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Pettit said his supervisor was very upset about the situation.

She informed me that they did not have input into this decision. It came from senior FEMA leadership, he said. And she was just basically exacerbated, just angry at the situation, because she knew that my performance evaluations were outstanding and they did not want to lose me, but they had no say in the matter.

Pettit was told to expect an email with his formal termination that night, along with all of his separation paperwork. The next day, Pettit would have to send his company laptop and phone back to FEMA, who provided a shipping label for the process.

FEMA-employee Travis Pettit was fired from the agency on Presidents Day. (Photo courtesy of Travis Pettit)

Pettit was one of the many probationary employees at the Federal Emergency Management Agency who got fired on Presidents Day. The agency dismissed about 200 employees, according to National Public Radio and ironically, just last year, the agency reported staffing shortages.

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The layoffs, led by billionaire Musk under the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have primarily targeted probationary employees  those with a year or less on the job  according to States Newsrooms D.C. Bureau.

University of Virginia School of Law professor J.H. Rip Verkerke has a few thoughts on the massive firings happening throughout the federal government.

The Trump administrations strategy, guided by Elon Musks DOGE team, strikes me as chaotic, cruel, and counter-productive, Verkerke said in an email. As many people have observed, we are seeing many echoes of Musks indiscriminate termination of employees at Twitter after he purchased the company. He currently faces a number of lawsuits challenging some of those terminations and particularly alleging that his company failed to pay promised severance benefits.

Civil servants are typically granted statutory protections against termination, depending on their job classification and tenure, Verkerke said.

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So far, it appears that the administration has principally targeted probationary employees for mass terminations, he said.

These workers are comparatively vulnerable because they dont receive full civil service job protection until they have served for at least one year. The fact that they are being mandated by White House officials who have no meaningful contact with the agency workers, and the patently false statements contained in at least some of the termination notices may provide some legal grounds for these employees to challenge their firing.

Pettit was an instructional systems specialist at the National Fire Academy in Emmitsburg, Maryland, which operates under FEMA. He developed specialized training courses for firefighters.

I was still in my probationary period, he said. I was hired in March of 2024, so I was about three weeks shy of being out of that probationary period when I was terminated.

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Probation periods vary by position and agency but typically last at least a year. Employees are expected to transition to either a career or career-conditional appointment based on performance.

Since his termination, Pettit has been considering his next steps, including the possibility of contesting FEMAs decision.

It basically said something to the effect of, because youre a probationary employee, you have not demonstrated that your performance warrants further employment or is in the publics interest, and youre being separated as of tomorrow, he said.

After researching his options, Pettit came across a sample response letter online.

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I had found a sample letter on Reddit which told me they couldnt possibly be actually assessing our performance individually if Im a high performer, and Im getting this form letter that everybody else is getting, he said.

So I typed up my response, which said, Hey, youre making these unfounded claims about me. I would like documentation. If you can provide notices that I allegedly received regarding my performance or performance improvement plans, but I want an explanation for this.

He never received a reply.

Pettit filed a claim with the Office of Special Counsel, the federal agency that investigates terminations of civil servants. The office has agreed to take on his case.

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Meanwhile, multiple lawsuits challenging the Trump administrations mass firings of federal employees have emerged, according to the Public Broadcasting Service.

Pettit has also started the process of applying for unemployment benefits.

I did go ahead and file basically the next day after I found out I was getting laid off just because I didnt know how long any of these processes were gonna take, he said. I am in the process of searching for work and submitting everything I need to the unemployment office. Its been a difficult week.

Unemployment benefit claims in Virginia

More than 144,000 federal civil workers live in Virginia, according to a 2024 report put out by the Congressional Research Service.

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However, for those federal employees who have been terminated and are thinking about possibly applying for unemployment benefits, they need to understand which state to fill out the forms in, according to Demetrios Mitch Melis, commissioner of the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC).

The only individuals that are going to file in Virginia are people that worked in Virginia, Melis explained. So if you worked in D.C. and thats where your duty station was, youre filing in D.C. If your duty station was in Maryland, youre filing in Maryland.

Billionaire Elon Musk, accompanied by his son, joins President Donald Trump in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 11, 2025 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

The federal government determines an employees duty station, Melis added.

Despite the thousands of Virginia-based federal employees, the number of filed claims has not shot up, said Melis. When The Mercury interviewed Melis last week, Virginias unemployment rate for the last week of January remained unchanged. He noted that the VEC does not track claims by job type.

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We dont report on a person by person. The unemployment numbers are kind of consolidated and then theyre broken down, Melis said. So we dont currently have a breakout specific for federal employees. However, he added, The majority of these jobs that were seeing thus far seem to be based in D.C.

Nationally, unemployment claims did rise, according to figures released by the Department of Labor on Feb. 27. The DOL reported that in the week ending Feb. 22 was 242,000, an increase of 22,000 from the previous weeks revised level.

The previous weeks report, for the week of Feb. 22 from the DOL showed an increase of 5,000 from the previous weeks revised level  thats a jump of 17,000 claims. Claims from federal workers also rose, from 613 to 614. Last year at this time, the number was 337.

Melis said his office typically sees seasonal spikes in unemployment during this time of year.

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We are not seeing a correlation at the moment between the federal workforce transitions and changes that are happening and the unemployment rate, he said. We typically see a seasonal spike right at this time of year, every single year. And thats typically a result of post-holiday layoffs, winter slowdowns.

The latest report for Virginia, released Feb. 27, even showed a slight decline in claims:

2,473 unemployment insurance weekly initial claims were filed during the week ending February 22, 2025, which is 14.7% lower than last weeks 2,899 claims and 23.9% higher than the comparable week of last year (1,996).

Melis said the VEC is monitoring the numbers weekly and emphasized that claim fluctuations depend on when and if people file. If unemployment claims rise, the agency is prepared.

I do want to reiterate that in no way are we taking it lightly, he said. We certainly understand the impact it has, which is why we have quickly made some adjustments to our website. Virginia currently has a very large number of jobs available  290,000 jobs available currently for individuals to be able to transition to.

The VEC is also creating instructional videos to guide federal employees through the application process, outlining required documentation and eligibility criteria t.

Our focus at the moment is truly preparing for those that may be impacted. And we are prepared to provide as much support as we can for anyone thats impacted, Melis said. We certainly understand its a time that theyre going through, but our job is to be prepared with the state resources that we have. And thats what were in a position to do and well be continuing to do.

Gov.Glenn Youngkins response

Amid the initial wave of DOGE-led firings, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin defended Trumps actions while expressing concern for those feeling anxious about the job cuts. At the same time, he said that his administration was developing a plan to assist federal workers.

That plan was unveiled last week as an online job hub. The initiative promises an estimated 250,000 new jobs across Virginias public and private sectors.

For those employees who may be thinking about other options, Verkerke said there may be some hope. He said the way DOGE is operating will turn out to be illegal.

Federal employees who object to those actions or who report those actions to appropriate authorities may be able to raise whistleblowing claims against the agency that fires them, said Verkerke. Specific statutory protections vary, but it would be no surprise to find that some Trump appointees have retaliated against federal employees for protected activity.

Although Verkeke said the current situation is so fluid that its difficult to predict what claims may succeed.

However, one fact is undeniable. The Trump administrations actions are utterly without prior precedent, he said.

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COURTESY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAWAII From right, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii board member Bernard Nunies and state Transportation Director Ed Sniffen spoke with students about jobs opportunities in fields like engineering, finance, health care and IT during the Aug. 5 Entrepreneurs Sandbox.

COURTESY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE HAWAII From right, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii board member Bernard Nunies and state Transportation Director Ed Sniffen spoke with students about jobs opportunities in fields like engineering, finance, health care and IT during the Aug. 5 Entrepreneurs Sandbox.

The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii has launched Kama aina Come Home, a job placement program designed to reconnect former Hawaii residents with engineering opportunities in the islands.

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The initiative, which is trademarked by the Hawaii Island Economic Development Board, seeks to address the states ongoing workforce shortage by helping businesses connect with skilled professionals eager to return home.

Vanessa Rogers, vice president of workforce development at the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, said Hawaii has long faced a talent drain, particularly in engineering, as many professionals leave for career opportunities on the mainland.

The program is offered at no cost and provides one-on-one mentorship, access to an exclusive LinkedIn group, resources and networking events to facilitate a seamless transition back home.

The Kama aina Come Home program is a shining example of how we can work together to address Hawaiis workforce challenges by leveraging the unique talents of kamaaina who are eager to contribute to their home state,  Rogers said in a statement. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that strengthen Hawaiis economy and provide opportunities for our local talent.

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Kama aina Come Home takes a dual approach to address this issue : building interest in engineering careers from an early age while also creating direct pathways for professionals looking to return.

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The long-term strategy focuses on career awareness and early exposure to engineering through the chambers Engineering Sector Partnership.

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The partnership works closely with local school complexes to introduce students to engineering pathways and ensure they are prepared for the academic demands of the fieldespecially in math. Because calculus is a prerequisite for the University of Hawaii at Manoas College of Engineering, early preparation is essential to ensuring students can pursue engineering degrees and remain in Hawaiis workforce.

At the same time, the program also targets professionals who left Hawaii for college or work but want to return. Many students who attend college on the mainland build connections through internships and early career opportunities, making it more difficult to transition back to Hawaii. Kama aina Come Home helps bridge this gap by connecting them with local engineering professionals who can provide mentorship, job insights and networking opportunities. By establishing these relationships early, professionals who eventually decide to return will already have a support system in place to ease their transition home.

Kama aina Come Home is part of the Engineering Sector Partnership, an industry-driven initiative launched in 2018 to strengthen Hawaiis engineering talent pipeline. The program focuses on career awareness, math readiness and increasing womens participation in STEM fields.

Dean Brennan Morioka, who heads the University of Hawaii College of Engineering, plays a key role in the sector partnership, according to Rogers.

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Despite the UH College of Engineerings efforts to develop local talent, the state still faces a significant workforce gap. Currently, the UH College of Engineering graduates only about 73 % of the engineers needed to meet Hawaiis workforce demand, leaving a 27 % shortage. Each year, an estimated 350 engineering jobs remain open, highlighting the urgent need for more professionals in the field.

By connecting Hawaii-born engineers on the mainland with local industry leaders, Kama aina Come Home helps address this gap by providing businesses with a skilled workforce that is already deeply connected to Hawaiis culture and values.

The chamber is calling on local professionals and businesses to support returning kamaaina by offering mentorship, informational interviews, job placements and insights into Hawaiis engineering landscape.

We want to take advantage of our technology and social networks to establish a one-stop shop for people at all levels of experience seeking to return to Hawaii,  Ikaika Kincaid, co-lead on the Kama aina Come Home program, said in a statement. With industry representatives leading the initiative, the program will be tailored to the needs of local firms and help in finding the right people who want to serve Hawaii.

For businesses interested in joining the initiative or kamaaina looking for opportunities to return home, visit the programs website, join the LinkedIn group or contact McKenna Dale, the chambers manager of workforce development, at mdale @cochawaii.org or 808-380-2606.
NEW YORK CITY (PIX11)  New York City could implement traffic cameras to monitor and ticket illegal parking, thanks to new legislation proposed in the state Assembly.

The legislation, first reported by Gothamist, would create a pilot program installing 150 traffic cameras across the city to rein in drivers who double park and block key infrastructure, like bike lanes, loading zones and fire hydrants.

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Under the $35 million proposal, drivers caught illegally parking would get a ticket in the mail with fines up to $50 for the first offense and $250 for additional offenses within a year.

Like other automated ticketing programs, camera captures would be manually reviewed before a fine is sent to the vehicle owner, according to Michael Sutherland, a senior policy and legislative analyst at Open Plans.

Illegal parking, like double parking and blocking loading zones, poses a significant threat to drivers, pedestrians and cyclists, Sutherland said. Just last month, illegal parking in front of fire hydrants slowed the FDNYs response to two fatal fires in the Bronx and Brooklyn, fire officials said.

Illegal parking was the second-most common 311 complaint in New York City in 2024.

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Theres a huge safety danger [when] illegal parking that happens, Sutherland said. Double parking is a huge, huge issue.

Theres a good amount of momentum around the new legislation, which is now in the hands of the state Assemblys Transportation Committee, Sutherland said. In a letter to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, six state lawmakers lobbied for the programs inclusion in the state budget.

In the last 15 years, curb space in our city has grown to be hyper-competitive due to the rise of e-commerce, rideshares, micro mobility, and food delivery, wrote Assemblymember Steven Raga, who introduced the legislation. [But] bad actors rarely face violations, allowing chaos and safety hazards to persist.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

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Eight local organizations, including the Trucking Association of New York and Los Deliveristas Unidos, signed a similar letter calling for the programs funding.

The proposal is similar to cameras recently installed on buses to catch drivers blocking bus stops and lanes, according to Sutherland. This ticketing program has improved bus speeds in the same way that red light and speed cameras reduce infractions, Sutherland said.

Automated enforcement works, Sutherland said.

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.

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A proposal to restrict where marijuana advertisements can be located in Detroit is moving forward.

The proposed changes to city code, which would prohibit fixed marijuana advertisements from being within a 1,000-foot radius of any "advertisement-sensitive property" such as schools and libraries, were approved by the Detroit City Council's public health and safety standing committee Monday. The proposal will now head to Detroit City Council.

"This is a very, very important ordinance at a very important time, and even though we adults made a decision to legalize marijuana and vaping, sometimes the decisions that we make as adults are not always in the best interest of our students and our youth," council member Angela Whitfield Calloway, who is spearheading the proposal, said at the committee meeting.

A Leaf and Bud advertisement on the back of Nick's Gaslight in downtown Detroit on Friday, Oct. 18, 2024.

Recreational marijuana was legalized in Michigan in 2018 and recreational cannabis officially started being sold in Detroit in early 2023. Since then, more than 50 recreational marijuana dispensaries have opened in the city.

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Calloway said the proposal comes as Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti has expressed concerns about the proliferation of marijuana in schools in recent years.

Like restrictions on alcohol and tobacco advertisements, fixed cannabis advertisements would not be allowed within 1,000 feet of schools, child care centers, juvenile detention or correctional facilities, libraries, parks, playgrounds and recreation centers, among other locations.

It is unclear whether this ordinance, if passed, would apply to moving marijuana advertisements, such as airplanes pulling advertising banners and mobile LED billboard trucks. The Free Press didn't immediately receive a response to a request for clarification from Calloway's office.

More on the proposal: Detroit City Council proposes regulations on marijuana advertisements

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More on the marijuana industry: Michigan to distribute nearly $100M in marijuana tax revenue: What your city will get

A dozen people either called in or appeared in person to comment on the proposal, and most supported restrictions on marijuana advertisements.

"We don't need any more signs flooding our neighborhoods advertising marijuana, nicotine or any type of drug," a caller who identified herself as Betty Varner said. "Let's get more signs advertising how our children can go to free college classes and courses after they graduate. Let's advertise how they can go to trade schools ... how you can become a journeyman and electrician ..."

It's unclear when City Council will vote on the proposal.

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Detroit Free Press staff writer Dana Afana contributed with prior reporting.

Contact Adrienne Roberts: amroberts@freepress.com.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Proposal to restrict location of marijuana ads in Detroit moves forward
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A new proposed license plate supporting Oregon State Universitys Big Fish Lab hopes to bring attention to Oregons coastal sharks.

There are 15 species of sharks that live in the Oregon Coasts marine ecosystem, but according to the Big Fish Lab, it can be hard to fund their research.

Funding shark research is hard. Sharks are not delicious or cuddly but theyre critically important, said Taylor Chapple, an assistant professor and founder of the Big Fish Lab. Our mission in the Big Fish Lab is to better understand the importance of sharks and to share their story broadly. This license plate will help us do that.

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Early morning earthquake strikes near northern Washington

Sharks are apex predators and are important in regulating species abundance, distribution and diversity, the Big Fish Lab said. They are also threatened by overfishing, habitat loss, climate change and pollution.

The Big Fish Lab was established in 2019 and is the first and only dedicated shark research program in Oregon.

The 15 species of sharks off our shores help keep Oregons coastal ecosystems and the economies dependent on them vibrant and productive, from the crab in your pot to the salmon on your grill. Oregons ocean abundance is largely thanks to our sharks, he said. The publics support helps us better understand these critical predators and ensure the continued vibrant oceans that define Oregon.

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The license plate, designed by Natalie Donato, a third-year Honors College student studying marine biology, features a large salmon shark front and center with two blue sharks and a common thresher shark.

These Oregon campsites are ranked among the prettiest in the US

I set out to create a scene that represents the feeling of a vibrant underwater world, depicting the sharks in a more realistic form and the vivid, inspiring feeling that resonates with me when I view the ocean, Donato said. Capturing the flow, depth, and fluid feeling of being underwater and present with the calm, inquisitive sharks played a key role in the direction of the design, channeling that feeling from the imperfection and variation of the light beams, scars and details on the sharks, and the individual shimmering fish meant to bring the scene to life.

License plate vouchers cost $40 with $35 of each sale going directly to the Big Fish Lab. In order for the license plate to be manufactured, they need to sell 3,000 plates.

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Our hope is that with every plate, we get closer to appreciating that sharks arent the mindless killers of Hollywood, but dynamic and important actors in our vibrant oceans, Chapple said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Republican lawmakers are seeking to end a Biden administration mandate that local governments and water utilities identify and replace lead pipes nationwide, potentially obstructing efforts being made in metro Atlanta.

The Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) aim to eliminate toxic pipes in the U.S. within the next 10 years. Following this mandate, areas like DeKalb and Fulton counties discovered that the makeup of thousands of pipes in their communities is unknown.

Republican U.S. Rep. Andrew Clyde of Georgia introduced a joint resolution to the House of Representatives last month that insists that Congress disapproves of the mandate and that it shall have no force or effect.

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The same resolution was introduced in January by U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer, a Republican lawmaker from Alabama, but it needed to be reintroduced for procedural reasons.

If the LCRI are revoked, the decision to investigate the pipes of unknown material would be at the discretion of local governments and utilities, according to Sara Lips, spokesperson for Georgias Environmental Protection Division.

Some advocates worry that without the LCRI, local governments will not prioritize efforts to address lead contamination, which studies have shown is more likely to harm Black communities nationwide.

These pipes have been in the ground for decades  in some places, over 100 years  and utilities and municipalities havent taken any steps to figure out what the pipe materials are, said Valerie Baron, national policy director and senior attorney with the National Resources Defense Council, an environmental advocacy group. We need this protection for childrens health and for the health of our communities.

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Fulton intends to investigate whether any of its reported 25,409 unidentified service lines are made of lead, according to Regina Waller, a county spokesperson. Its unclear if those plans will remain if the LCRI are revoked.

At this time, Fulton County is awaiting to see what redirection, if any, comes out of the federal and state agencies regarding this program, Waller told Capital B Atlanta via email. Therefore, we have not decided if the program will continue if the federal and state agencies change the current requirements.

In an email to Capital B, DeKalb spokesperson Quinn Hudson said the county identified 108,000 unknown lines as of Friday. College Park identified about 2,000 service lines made of unknown materials.

DeKalb and College Park officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the future of their programs.

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The EPA estimates that it would cost nearly $19.7 billion to replace Georgias public lead service lines.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided millions in funding over the past few years to help communities in Georgia replace existing lead service lines. The EPA says Georgia received $66.8 million in 2022 and an additional $28.6 million in 2023 from the federal government for lead pipe replacement.

While this federal funding was earmarked under Biden for a five-year period, its unclear if a similar initiative would take place under President Donald Trump.

President Trump and EPAs newly confirmed Administrator Lee Zeldin have been clear that EPA will safeguard the nations air, water, and land for current and future generations while supporting economic growth and opportunity, Patti Ghezzi, a press officer with the Environmental Protection Agencys Region 4, said via a statement to Capital B Atlanta. This commitment includes ensuring that our nations drinking water is safe from lead.

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If the LCRI end, Georgias Environmental Protection Division says the state would revert to following the federal Lead and Copper Rule Revisions, or LCRR.

The major differences between these two rules is that the LCRR allow a higher level of lead in water and do not federally mandate that all lead pipes must be replaced within 10 years.

Baron says the LCRR arent aggressive enough, as they dont require a mandate to remove all lead pipes.

Additionally, due to the Congressional Review Act, which allows lawmakers to overturn certain federal agency actions, the EPA would not be allowed to propose a similar rule in the future.

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Lead exposure risks for infants and young children include decreases in IQ and attention span, as well as learning and behavioral issues, according to the EPA. Adults who come into contact with lead are at increased risk of high blood pressure, kidney and nervous system issues, and heart disease.

Tom Neltner, national director of Unleaded Kids, a nonprofit organization focused on addressing lead removal policies, said that because of practices like redlining, Black residents are historically more likely to live in older homes, where lead is more prevalent than in modern homes.

Over the years, we see that Black Americans have higher levels of lead in their blood, Neltner said. For the past 25 years, theres been a tremendous investment in reducing the exposure disparities based on race and income. Weve made progress, but I think we still have to keep going.

The post Proposed Rollback of Lead Pipe Regulations Threatens Health of Atlanta Communities appeared first on Capital B News - Atlanta.
Mar. 2GRAND FORKS  Around 50 protesters gathered Sunday in Grand Forks in a show of support for Ukraine after a blowout White House meeting rattled U.S.-Ukrainian relations.

They gathered in Grand Forks' Town Square and on the Greenway before making their way across the Sorlie Bridge during the brief afternoon rally.

The rally came days after

a contentious Oval Office meeting

between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, at which Trump berated Zelenskyy and called off a deal giving the U.S. access to Ukrainian mineral deposits.

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"It's sad. It's even more shameful that the United States has decided to be a mob boss when it comes to protection," said Dalton Erickson, executive director of the North Dakota Human Rights Coalition. "What is this? Give us $500 billion in mineral rights and we'll protect you? We used to be a country that fought for freedom and democracy."

Standing on either side of DeMers Avenue, supporters waved blue and yellow flags and held up signs reading "I stand with Ukraine."

Others read "Trump lies for Putin" or depicted billionaire presidential adviser Elon Musk clad in monarchial robes and a crown.

Zelenskyy left the White House on Friday without signing the mineral rights deal after Trump shouted at the Ukrainian leader and accused him of being "disrespectful" and "gambling with World War III."

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Ukraine had indicated it was open to the mineral rights deal to repay the U.S. for the $180 billion in aid the eastern European country has received during a nearly three-years-long war with Russia, but sought security guarantees before it was ready to enter peace talks.

UND students Judy and Lizzie Starosta joined the protest after seeing it from their apartment window, bringing along a pair of Ukrainian flags.

The children of Ukrainian emigres said it was important for Americans to show unity with Ukraine and recognize the two countries' shared patriotism and democratic values.

"Fighting for democracy, whether here or anywhere else, is very important," said Judy.

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One counterprotester, former School Board and County Commission candidate Ron Barta, briefly disrupted the rally; Ukraine supporters drowned him out, chanting "power to the people!"

Most European countries have rallied in support of Ukraine, while Democrats have condemned Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance for their public conduct toward Zelenskyy and perceived shift toward Russian President Vladimir Putin, widely considered a dictator by U.S. allies.

Republicans, on the other hand, have heaped blame on Zelenskyy, with the notable exception of Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski.

Regional lawmakers largely split along party lines in their response to the White House meeting, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota

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staking out a middle ground

between the two.

Local Democratic leaders joined with the newly-formed Grand Forks chapter of the progressive Indivisible movement to organize event.

Sheila Fontaine, chair of the Polk County and Red Lake County Democrats, told the Herald the White House meeting was part of the Trump administration's latest salvo against democracy.

"The news is coming at us like a fire hose," she told protesters. "So be ready, because at a moment's notice we're going to be right back out here doing what we do."

Indivisible chapter members are planning to meet Monday in Fargo with the staff of North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven, organizer Cathy Williams said, and are planning further protest action for Tuesday's State of the Union address.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI)  An investigation is underway after two people were shot in Providence early Saturday morning, according to police.

Police responded to Beacon Avenue for reports of a shooting just before 1 a.m. Upon arrival, officers located two victims suffering from gunshot wounds to their legs.

Both were taken to Rhode Island Hospital. Police said their injuries are not life-threatening.

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ALSO READ: Man attacked in Providence apartment break-in

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Gov. Jared Polis delivers his State of the State address in the Colorado House chamber in Denver on Jan. 9, 2025. (Photo by Hyoung Chang/The Denver Post/Pool)

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis urged the Trump administration to comply with a court order prohibiting the federal government from freezing funding, highlighting $69.5 million in public safety grants promised to the state.

At the end of January, President Donald Trump issued a sweeping freeze on federal spending, which a federal judge soon temporarily blocked. State officials said more than $570 million that Congress approved for Colorado remained inaccessible in early February.

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A news release from Polis, a Democrat, said the administration has stopped paying for Homeland Security grants allocated to the state in defiance of a court order mandating funding be disbursed. The release said the state will do everything it can to bridge the gap in funding.

In Colorado, we are focused on improving public safety and this delay and uncertainty makes us less safe, Polis said in a statement. Common sense support to improve safety for Boys and Girls Clubs, places of worship, stopping school violence, and disaster assistance is illegally being cut off by the Trump administration. This wrecking ball approach from the federal government puts communities throughout Colorado at risk.

Funding promised to Colorado that the state has not received includes:

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$18.66 million from state homeland security grants

$6.36 million from emergency management performance grants

$9.79 million from state and local cybersecurity grants

$2.45 million in emergency operations center grants

$9.87 million from nonprofit security grants

$775,720 from targeted violence and terrorism prevention grants

$15.2 million from urban area security initiative grants

Summit County Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons said the ongoing funding freeze is deeply concerning for his county.

As home to the most visited national forest in the nation  the White River National Forest  a critical stretch of Interstate 70, and dam infrastructure vital to the Colorado River Basin, Summit County relies on federal funding to support public safety across private, public, and federal lands, FitzSimons, a Democrat, said in a statement. Public safety must remain a priority, and restoring these funds is essential.

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ESCONDIDO, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  A pursuit of a stolen car ended in a crash at Camp Pendleton early Monday, injuring six teenagers, according to Escondido police.

The incident began about half-an-hour after midnight, when officers observed what Escondido police described as suspicious behavior by a Hyundai Sonata in the area of Iris Lane and El Norte Parkway.

Upon noticing this activity, officers ran the plates of the vehicle through their system, which came back as stolen, according to police. Officers then got behind the Sonata with lights, but the driver failed to yield and led them onto State Route 78.

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Man strangled and assaulted in Hillcrest; suspect arrested

The pursuit continued on to Interstate 5, where California Highway Patrol took over, according to Escondido police. The chase ended when the driver unsuccessfully attempted to access Camp Pendleton through its front gates, colliding with barriers deployed by base personnel.

Per Escondido police, six people were in the Sonata at the time of the crash, including the driver  all of whom were injured and taken to various local hospitals. Police say all were also under the age of 18.

No further details about the individuals in the vehicle or their condition were immediately available.

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This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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JEMEZ PUEBLO  From the 1800s to the 1960s, generations of Native American students suffered abuses in boarding schools run by the U.S. government that were designed to stamp out their cultural and tribal ties.

Students often were punished for speaking Native languages and forced to convert to Christianity.

Now, some tribal leaders in New Mexico are championing legislation they maintain will help preserve Indigenous languages as a part of the Native self-determination movement, allowing tribes and pueblos to bolster funding for schools on tribal land that emphasize the teaching of Native languages and culturally relevant material.

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There has been a concerted effort by the federal government to do away with us, basically, said state Sen. Benny Shendo Jr., D-Jemez Pueblo, a sponsor of Senate Bill 13. Indian boarding schools, the purpose is to move kids away from home, a way to assimilate us into American culture and so forth.

All along, weve resisted, Shendo said. We still resist today.

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Ricardo Gachupin and a group of students from the Walatowa Early Childhood Learning Center participate in a group dance on the playground Thursday. Indigenous language immersion programs  like the one at Walatowa, one of two such institutions on Jemez Pueblo  not only want to instruct students in tribal languages but also seek to prioritize integrating cultural education with the language.

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The legislation would amend state code to create state-tribal education compact schools, authorizing the New Mexico Public Education Department to enter into compacts with Indian nations, tribes and pueblos to create language and culture-based institutions.

Tribes and pueblos would be in full control of what is taught in terms of curriculum. However, the bill also would make proposed state-tribal compact schools eligible for state funding through the state equalization guarantee, the states public school funding formula.

Jemez Pueblo, in particular, has sought to be a model in this regard. This week, the door of a classroom on the pueblo held a sign reading No English. The young students inside will not start taking any lessons in English until around the fifth grade.

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A sign reading No English posted on the door of one of the classrooms at the Hemish Pilot Immersion School last week. In the world we live in today, we are inundated with English, said Kevin Shendo, the education director at the pueblo. He said the goal of the immersion program is to ground children in the language of Jemez before introducing English instruction later in school in order to strengthen cultural and community ties.

Kevin Shendo, the education director at the pueblo, said the idea is to ground children in the language of Jemez  the Native language specific to the pueblo  before introducing English instruction later in order to strengthen cultural and community ties, while making the students well rounded and confident. He pointed to studies indicating students who are strong in two languages can excel academically.

In the world we live in today, we are inundated with English, Shendo said, meaning those students are picking up plenty of English outside the classroom anyway.

He added he believes introducing English-based instruction around the fifth grade is in the service of bolstering educational opportunities for students. Jemez is an oral language and is not written.

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Youre looking at more of the specialized academic content areas [after the fifth grade]. And our goal really isnt to make Jemez an academic language, Shendo said.

The pueblo, a sovereign community at the foot of Redondo Peak about 50 miles west of Santa Fe, has a pilot language immersion program, known as the Hemish Language Immersion Pilot School, serving about 17 students from kindergarten through the eighth grade.

But the goal, which the legislation would help aid, is to increase the number of students in those programs and shore up funding. Currently, the immersion program at Jemez Pueblo is supported primarily through private grants.

Theres plenty of competition for students. That comes as the educational options for Indigenous young people in Jemez Pueblo remain ample, with state-run charter schools, public schools and schools operated by the Bureau of Indian Education located within an hour of the pueblo.

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As it stands, 148 Jemez young people are enrolled in the Jemez Valley Public School District in Sandoval County, 93 are enrolled in Albuquerque Public Schools and 74 are enrolled in Rio Rancho Public Schools. At Jemez Pueblo, which has a population of around 2,000 people, the aim is to get more of those students into the immersion program, which has Native teachers grounded in the Jemez language and culture.

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Chandler Two Eagle holds up a tiny carrot seedling last week while working with educational assistant Derek Yepa, not pictured, on transplanting the carrots into larger containers at the Hemish Pilot Immersion School on Jemez Pueblo. The K-8 school operates with Walatowa Headstart  intended for kids as old as 7 on the pueblo  with both being funded by public and private grants.

Other tribal leaders in New Mexico are also on board with the bill. At least eight Indigenous languages are spoken in New Mexico, some of which are viewed as endangered.

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We at Santa Ana are looking to begin a program such as what is proposed here in this bill. Our languages, including in Santa Ana, are endangered, so we are trying to not lose it for the future generations, said Jay Garcia of Santa Ana Pueblo, speaking in support of the bill at a Feb. 18 Senate Finance Committee meeting.

A boost for tribal autonomy?

The bill has received support so far in the 2025 New Mexico legislative session, winning a 38-0 vote on the Senate floor this week. Before the powerful Senate Finance Committee, it had the support of both Republicans and Democrats.

The bill would allow administrators at Jemez Pueblo to strengthen funding streams for the work they are doing. Officials maintain the bill supports tribal autonomy and allows for the development of curriculum that reflects their values and priorities, including the preservation of Native languages.

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Under the bill, the governing body for an Indian nation, tribe or pueblo could submit a resolution to the New Mexico Public Education Department to create a compact school serving any grades between prekindergarten and 12th grade.

Heres how it would work: Once an application is submitted to create a potential compact school, the education department would convene a government-to-government meeting for negotiating the terms of the compact.

The agreements would have a term of five years and would include provisions related to compliance, notices of violation, dispute resolution, recordkeeping and auditing, delineation of responsibilities, compact renewability and compact termination, according to a Legislative Finance Committee analysis of the bill.

There is some concern the bill could create conflict in the competition for students and perhaps lower enrollment at public schools in the state. That could create fiscal impacts for school districts and charter schools if enrollment in proposed state-tribal compact schools shifts enrollment away from current school districts and charter schools, a Legislative Education Study Committee bill analysis has found.

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Historically, educational outcomes for Native American students have been consistently below those of their non-Native peers in the state, according to a bill analysis from the states Legislative Education Study Committee. The analysis found 25% of Native American students scored proficient in reading in the 2023-24 school year, and 13% of Native American students scored proficient in math over that same period.

The tribes I represent believe its time. The two tribes I represent are also tired of our children failing in schools, the public schools. They are tired of low graduation rates, said Conroy Chino, who spoke on behalf of Taos Pueblo and Acoma Pueblo at the committee meeting.

I just think its fantastic. You guys do know whats best for your kids, said state Sen. Steve Lanier, R-Aztec, also during the Senate Finance Committee meeting.

Similar legislation was introduced in 2023. Also sponsored by Shendo Jr., it passed the Senate but not the House, where action was postponed at the House Education Committee level. That is where this sessions legislation currently resides following the Senate floor vote Feb. 25.

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A complicated past and present

Jemez is also the only language one hears in the Walatowa Early Childhood Learning Center at Jemez Pueblo, which includes its early childhood and Head Start Language Immersion programs.

When Jemez Pueblo started Jemez immersion at its Head Start program, Shendo said that it became obvious children would lose much of those early gains with the language once they reached kindergarten and began attending a Bureau of Indian Education school, a public school or charter school, where the medium of instruction is English.

Thats when we realized that we need an option, K-6 initially, then we expanded it to K-8, for an immersion pathway where the kids can continue to develop the Jemez fluency, Shendo said.

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Lena Toya draws at a table during an exercise working with shapes, and horizontal and parallel lines in a classroom at Hemish Pilot Immersion School last week. A packet detailing learning objectives of the Jemez language immersion programs moves from social and emotional development for young learners to development of familial and traditional ideas to culturally integrated learning of concepts like cardinal direction and time.

Jemez Pueblo has a complicated past, and present, when it comes to the educational landscape.

Jemez Day School, a federal elementary school operated by the Bureau of Indian Education, has an enrollment of 133 students from kindergarten through the sixth grade. Two charter schools on the pueblo, San Diego Riverside Charter (K-8) and Walatowa High Charter School (9-12), each have about 50 students.

Lana Garcia, the early childhood program manager for Jemez Pueblos Head Start program, believes the pueblos language starts from the womb. She feels strongly pedagogy should be rooted in cultures and traditions.

We always believe that its every childs right to learn their language and their culture, Garcia said, looking out at the mesas of red rocks that flank the pueblo.
The White House is reportedly dropping Russia from its list of threats to cybersecurity and is instead honing in on China, part of the Trump administrations apparent broader effort to curry favor with the Kremlin and push for a peace deal that would end the countrys ongoing war in Ukraine.

According to The Guardian , the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has received a new list of directives that largely omit Russia as a threat to monitor. Part of the Department of Homeland Security, CISA monitors cyber threats made to the United States.

These directives were listed out in a memo, which singled out China and the protection of local systems as priorities, according to the newspaper. The document, however, failed to mention Russiadespite the country previously being a seminal focus at the agency.

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, Russia's President Vladimir Putin gives a speech during a meeting of the Federal Security Service (FSB) Board in Moscow on February 27, 2025. / ALEXANDER KAZAKOV/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

A source familiar with the matter who spoke to the outlet on the condition of anonymity said agency analysts were verbally told to not follow or report on Russian threats, adding that a Russian-related project was consequently nixed.

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Russia and China are our biggest adversaries. With all the cuts being made to different agencies, a lot of cybersecurity personnel have been fired. Our systems are not going to be protected and our adversaries know this, the source told The Guardian.

People are saying Russia is winning. Putin is on the inside now, they continued.

Another source who had worked on highly classified US joint task forces to monitor and combat Russian cyber threats additionally told The Guardian that the recent developments were truly shocking.

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meet in the Oval Office at the White House on February 28, 2025 in Washington, DC. / Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

There are thousands of US government employees and military working daily on the massive threat Russia poses as possibly the most significant nation state threat actor. Not to diminish the significance of China, Iran or North Korea, but Russia is at least on par with China as the most significant cyber threat, the source told the outlet.

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There are dozens of discrete Russia state-sponsored hacker teams dedicated to either producing damage to US government, infrastructure and commercial interests or conducting information theft with a key goal of maintaining persistent access to computer systems, they added.

In a statement to the Daily Beast, Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said: The memo referenced in the Guardians reporting is not from the Trump Administration, which is quite inconvenient to the Guardians preferred narrative.

CISA remains committed to addressing all cyber threats to U.S. critical infrastructure, including from Russia. There has been no change in our posture or priority on this front.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth (L) listens as U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick speaks during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on February 26, 2025 in Washington, DC. / Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

The New York Times additionally reports that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the U.S. Cyber Command to stop offensive operations against Russia.

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Citing a current and two former officials familiar with the discussions, the outlet reports Hegseths instructions were issued before Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys disastrous visit to the White House on Friday and seem to be part of a larger effort to invite Russia into peace talks.

The Office of the Secretary of Defense did not immediately respond to the Daily Beasts request for comment.
LONDON  Russia's Vladimir Putin has for years unsuccessfully tried to oust Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Now, those efforts are being entertained by senior officials in Ukraines single most important backer, the United States.

Either Zelenskyy needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude or someone else needs to lead the country to do that, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., told NBC News Meet the Press on Sunday. Two days after the Ukrainian president was publicly berated by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, and asked to leave the White House without signing an important deal, Johnson said it was up to the Ukrainians to figure that out.

National security adviser Mike Waltz said Washington needed a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end this war. He told CNN that if it becomes apparent that President Zelenskyys either personal motivations or political motivations are divergent from ending the fighting in this country, then I think we have a real issue.

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Meanwhile Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., said he wasnt sure if the U.S. can ever do business with Zelenskyy again. He said that Ukraines leader either needs to resign and send somebody over that we can do business with, or he needs to change.

Critics say this plays into the hands of Russia, aiding Moscows yearslong bid to oust Ukraines pro-Western leader, while fanning Kyivs domestic political divisions during wartime.

An Ukrainian serviceman carries an artillery shell to fire toward Russian positions near Donetsk on Sunday.

Kremlin spokesman Dimitry Peskov on Monday called the White House clash an unprecedented event that showed Zelenskyy largely demonstrated a complete lack of diplomatic skills. The exchange was part of Ukraines refusal to acknowledge the real situation on the ground, he said. Only a blind person could fail to see this, and only a deaf person would refuse to hear it.

Still, the Ukrainian leader has remained defiant and popular among European leaders. There is also evidence that last weeks clash in the Oval Office may have even boosted his domestic support.

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If they replace me, given what is going on, given the support, simply replacing me will not be simple, Zelenskyy told British media. Its not enough to just hold an election. You need to also not let me run. This will be a bit more difficult. Looks like you will have to negotiate with me.

Trump and his advisers such as Elon Musk have criticized Ukraines indefinite postponement of elections scheduled for 2024, delayed because the country is under martial law following its invasion by Russia. That led to Trump calling democratically elected Zelenskyy a dictator without elections.

More and more Ukrainians are in favor of this pause, with support up to 58% from 52% last week, Ukrainian pollster Gradus found in data published Sunday.

Other polling suggests that, while certainly more politically fallible than he was during the early days of the war, Zelenskyy remains widely popular and could well win a democratic ballot. In fact, another Gradus survey suggested that the Oval Office bust-up has coincided with a boost in Zelenskyys domestic approval rising to 49% as of Saturday.

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Meanwhile, trust in Zelenskyy appears to be increasing, up to 65% from 57% in January, a poll by the Ukrainian research organization Rating Group found.

President Trump and Vice President JD Vance meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office on Friday.

Zelenskyy was elected in 2019 with the large margin, said Yevhen Mahda, director of the Kyiv think tank Institute of World Policy, adding that there isnt a serious risk to his leadership inside the country. Although Zelenskyy has offered to resign if Ukraine gets NATO membership, these statements are a bit populistic because of how unlikely that is, Mahda said.

One man possibly more popular than him is Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukraines former top military commander  known as the Iron General  whom Zelenskyy fired in a February 2024 shakeup. Zaluzhniy, since posted to the United Kingdom as ambassador, was trusted by 76% of respondents in the Rating Group survey  higher than his boss, the president.

But in informal conversations over the weekend, political, military and diplomatic figures in Kyiv, even those who did not personally support the Ukrainian leader, unanimously told NBC News that replacing Zelenskyy now would only benefit Russia. Rather than seeing a humiliation of their leader, they saw it as an example of Ukraine standing up to the U.S. and saying no.

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Still, many in Ukraine are under no illusions at the leverage Washington still holds over them.

One soldier in Kramatorsk, Volodymyr Chystyi, whose nickname is clean guy, laid it out in stark terms: The only international pressure that could possibly force Zelenslyi to resign is a pressure from America.

Yevheniia Kravchuk, a lawmaker with Zelenskyys Servant of the People party, said her leader has made it clear hes not in politics for power. His aim is to ensure real, lasting peace to Ukraine and to achieve some security guarantees.

Honestly, I do not understand calls for President Zelenskyy to resign in the middle of an existential genocidal war, she added. Our defense heavily depends on President Zelenskyys leadership. Even the critics in Ukraine acknowledge that the discussion about replacing him is absurd and premature.

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Trump has wrongly claimed that Zelenskyys approval rating is 4%, and Musk said the Ukrainian leader was avoiding a vote because he would lose in a landslide.

There doesnt appear to be much evidence for either of these assertions. Trump appears to have gotten his statistic from an unscientific poll on the Telegram messaging service by one of Zelenskyys political rivals.

Alexander Smith reported from London, and Victor Sema and Daryna Meyer from Kyiv.







This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The U.S. Air Force expects to continue utilizing QF-16 Full Scale Aerial Target (FSAT) drones converted from F-16 Vipers fighters through at least 2035, despite moving in recent years to wind the program down. The Zombie Vipers provide valuable full-size fighter targets for testing and training purposes, including to fire live missiles at and even destroy. The service has been looking to acquire new stealthy uncrewed aircraft to meet its future FSAT needs, but has not yet made any substantial progress in this regard.

The Air Force currently plans to utilize the QF-16 into the 2030s, a service spokesperson told TWZ. The sustainment effort maintains the fleets airworthiness and compliance with range safety requirements.

The sustainment effort in question is one that first emerged in a contracting notice the Air Force posted online earlier this month.

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The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) USAF F-16 Contracting Branch (WAMKA) is pursuing the award of an indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity type contract to provide post-production Contractor Logistic Support (CLS) for the fielded QF-16 system and repair or replacement of Drone Peculiar Equipment (DPE) and Peculiar Support Equipment (PSE), the notice states. This includes support for program management, logistics and engineering. QF-16s are regenerated F-16s that have been equipped with DPE for use in manned and unmanned operations to meet US Title 10 requirements for the warfighter in evaluating weapons systems.

The program office needs to sustain the fleet of approximately 90 QF-16s for an additional 10 years, the notice continues. The technical data package and other Data Rights to maintain the software/hardware may not be available without partnering with the OEM. A limited technical data package is available upon request for additional technical details on this potential requirement.

A QF-16 target drone. USAF

The OEM, or original equipment manufacturer, for the F-16 is currently Lockheed Martin. However, most recently, Boeing had been contracted to convert Vipers into QF-16s.

In 2022, Boeing shuttered one of two QF-16 conversion lines at Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida. At that time, the company said it only planned to operate the second line in Tucson, Arizona, in cooperation with the Air Forces 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (309th AMARG), until completion of an existing contract for an unspecified number of Zombie Vipers was fulfilled. As of the 2021 Fiscal Year, the Air Force was in line to acquire a total of 134 QF-16s, according to Air Force Magazine. The 309th AMARG is also the unit in charge of managing the famous U.S. military aircraft boneyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson.

Individuals from the Defense Contract Management Agencys Aircraft Integrated Maintenance Operations-St. Augustine stand in front of the last QF-16 to be converted at Boeings facility at Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2022. Boeing

The Air Forces QF-16 drones, which can also be flown in a crewed mode for training and other purposes, typically have a lifespan of around 300 flight hours in total post-conversion. The cost to turn F-16 into a Zombie Viper has generally been between $1 and $2 million over the years.

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The service has used other converted combat jets for this role, including QF-4 Phantoms, as seen in the videos below, as FSATs in the past.

QF-16s operate from Tyndall Air Force Base in Florida, primarily in the ranges over the Gulf of Mexico (which the U.S. government now refers to as the Gulf of America). Zombie Vipers are also based at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, mainly to support activities at the U.S. Armys White Sands Missile Range. QF-16s are used for a variety of test and evaluation work, including the development of new weapons, as well as training events like Combat Archer live-fire air-to-air exercises. You can read more about the QF-16 in this past TWZ feature.

The Air Force still considers the QF-16 expendable, the Air Force spokesperson also told TWZ. There are no indications currently that the service is looking to convert more F-16s into Zombie Vipers to meet its FSAT needs into the next decade. Even if there was interest, it is not immediately clear where additional Viper airframes to turn into target drones might come from.

A QF-16 with a pilot onboard for a crewed sortie. USAF

TWZ has noted in the past that U.S. military stocks of older F-16s most suitable for conversion into FSATs have steadily dwindled over the years. At the same time, demands on the Air Forces operational Viper force have only increased at home and abroad. Turning new F-16s in storage into Zombie Vipers could be an option, but would not necessarily be the best use of airframes that could also be valuable sources of spare parts for operational jets, or even reactivated entirely to make up for attrition, especially in the event a major conflict breaks out. The U.S. Navy has also acquired ex-Air Force F-16s to support its adversary air program. Foreign air arms, including the Ukrainian Air Force, and private contractors that supply red air aggressor services have been increasingly snatching up F-16s available on the more and more picked-over global second-hand market, or have been looking to do so, as well.

Top Aces is the only private red air contractor to currently operate F-16s in the aggressor role, one of which is seen here, but other firms have been looking into Vipers as well. Jamie Hunter

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The Air Force, along with other branches of the U.S. military, have been trying for years now to acquire new full-size target drones, or ones that can at least mimic real fast-moving tactical jets. The goal has also been for those drones to have stealth and other more modern features, or the ability to simulate those capabilities with a high degree of fidelity. So far, however, progress in this regard has been extremely limited.

Sierra Technical Services 5GAT stealthy target drone seen here is a design the U.S. military has been at least testing for some time now. Sierra Technical Services A previous 5GAT design developed by Sierra Technical Services. Sierra Technical Services

The Air Force has not identified or funded a full-scale aerial target replacement for the QF-16, the service spokesperson told TWZ.

In the meantime, potential adversaries, especially China, continue to field ever-more advanced aircraft, including stealthy types, crewed and uncrewed, and missiles. Just in December, two previously unseen Chinese stealth combat jet designs emerged. Additional demand for fifth-generation-representative aerial targets, especially to support the development of new munitions and sensors, has already been growing.

These are needs QF-16s cannot really meet, though Zombie Vipers have been used to support testing of the new AIM-260 air-to-air missile. There is also just the overall target drone capacity question given the amount of expected missile testing the U.S. military is looking at in the years to come. QF-16s can survive a hit from a missile without a warhead and be refurbished for re-use. Missiles also do not necessarily need to hit a target to successfully score a kill in testing or to meet other test objectives.

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The Air Force is also expecting to keep a pocket fleet of F-117 Nighthawk combat jets flying through at least 2034 to help meet demand for stealthy aerial targets for testing and training purposes, but these aircraft are not expendable at all.

An F-117, with its drag chute deployed, after landing at Fresno-Yosemite International Airport in California in support of training exercise on Sept. 13, 2021. USAF

There has also been talk about whether the Air Forces Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drone program could create a new pipeline for stealthy target drones. This could come in the form of target drone derivatives of CCA designs or simply expending actual CCAs in this role at the end of their service lives, which are expected to be relatively short. When any of that might be realized remains to be seen as the Air Force still has yet to finalize a plan for acquiring its first tranche of operational CCAs, deliveries of which are not expected to start until later this decade at the earliest.

In the meantime, the Air Force will continue to rely on Zombie Vipers to provide important full-size targets, and ones it can blow up if desired, for testing and training purposes.

Contact the author: joe@thedrive.com
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Credit: Getty Images/Max Mumby/Indigo

Despite being a member of the British Royal Family, Queen Camilla isn't one to shy away from showing emotion. While Queen Elizabeth II and many of her relatives were known for their stoicism, Queen Camilla has been known to cry at public events. And according to a royal expert, an upcoming occasion might see The Queen being overcome with emotion once again.

In an interview with OK! magazine, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond discussed the upcoming 80th anniversary of VE Day, which takes place on May 8 and honors the sacrifices made by those who died in action. It's believed that Princess Kate and Prince William will join Queen Camilla and King Charles at the important event.

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"It will be emotional for everyone," Bond told the outlet. "The King will have so many memories of his father's wartime service and his mother's short time in the Auxiliary Territorial Service. Camilla will have similar memories of her own father, a distinguished soldier who won a military cross for gallantry during the Battle of Dunkirk."

"It will be emotional for everyone." | Credit: Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

Bond noted that Prince William's own military service will cause him to reflect during the event and have "an appreciation of how fragile the peace that was so hard won now is." The royal expert continued, "It will be one of the most important days in the royal calendar this year."

Commemorating the end of World War II, VE Day will rightly focus attention on veterans who served in the devastating conflict. "The handful of veterans will be the centerpiece of the events, of course, but this is a hugely important day for the Royal Family," Bond said. "They all take their links to the military very seriously, even if they have not served."

"They all take their links to the military very seriously, even if they have not served." | Credit: Yui Mok - Pool/Getty Images

Importantly, Kate and William's presence alongside Camilla and Charles will send a strong message, according to Bond. "However 'modern' and relatable William and Catherine are, they are fully aware of the profound significance of occasions like this, especially in the very troubled times we are now living through," the royal journalist explained. "The whole family will be keen to unite and lead the commemorations."

Bond continued, "I remember the 50th anniversary [of VE Day] when Diana and Charles took William and Harry to some of the commemorations. They were just 12 and 10 years old. Harry held his mom's hand...they put on a show of unity for the sake of the country and to show due respect for those who served and those who died. It was the start of learning just how important this day is and what a key role the royals have."
Mexico has extradited 29 alleged criminals to the United States, among them the so-called narco of narcos Rafael Caro Quintero, many accused of murder and several alleged members of cartels now designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.

The accused men were taken from prisons and jails around Mexico on February 27 and flown to the US to face a variety of charges in court, according to the US Department of Justice. Analysts told CNN en Espanol that this is likely the largest single extradition of its kind in the history of US-Mexico relations.

Heres what you need to know about the extradited men and the accusations leveled against them.

Rafael Caro Quintero

Caro Quintero is the most high-profile individual among the 29 extradited. Known as the narco of narcos and pursued by the US for 40 years, the erstwhile leader of the now-defunct Guadalajara Cartel is alleged to have been among those responsible for the 1985 murder of DEA agent Enrique Kiki Camarena and others. When news broke of his extradition on February 27, the DEAs Los Angeles office tweeted out a portrait of Camarena with the caption Justice Served!

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Caro Quintero appeared before a judge in Brooklyn on Friday afternoon, pleading not guilty to charges related to the decades-old killing of a Drug Enforcement Administration agent and other drug-related charges.

Caro Quintero has already spent 28 years in prison in Mexico for his alleged role in Camarenas murder before he was released on a technicality in 2013. That year, the Mexican Supreme Court overturned the decision that freed him.

Added to the FBIs 10 Most Wanted Fugitives in 2018, Caro Quintero returned to drug trafficking as a senior leader of the Sinaloa cartel, according to the FBI. The Sinaloa Cartel is now considered a terrorist organization by the US.

In July 2022, Caro Quintero was captured by the Mexican Navy during an operation in which a navy dog found him hiding among some bushes.

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Caro Quintero, a cartel kingpin who unleashed violence, destruction, and death across the United States and Mexico, has spent four decades atop DEAs most wanted fugitives list, and today we can proudly say he has arrived in the United States where justice will be served, DEA Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz said in a February 27 press release.

Judge Robert M. Levy clarified in court that Caro Quintero was expelled from Mexico under a provision within the national security law, which permits the Mexican government to remove an individual without undergoing the formal extradition process.

Members of the Mexican National Guard stand outside Altiplano Federal Penitentiary, where drug lord Rafael Caro Quintero was imprisoned, on the outskirts of Mexico City in 2022. - Luis Cortes/Reuters

Frank A. Tarentino II, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration for New York Division, speaks following a hearing for Rafael Caro Quintero at the Brooklyn Federal Courthouse on Friday. - Brendan McDermid/Reuters

Alder Marin-Sotelo

Alder Marin-Sotelo and his brother were charged with the murder of Wake County, NC sheriffs deputy Ned Byrd in August 2022 . Prosecutors accuse Marin-Sotelo of shooting and killing Byrd during a traffic stop.

In May 2023, while awaiting trial in a Virginia jail, Marin-Sotelo and another inmate managed to escape, with Marin-Sotelo fleeing to Mexico. He was captured there less than a week after his escape. His sister was later arrested and pleaded guilty in federal court to help him escape by paying $2,500 to arrange for the getaway car, according to court documents.

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According to CNN affiliate WRAL, Marin-Sotelos extradition back to the US took a long time due to a treaty between the two countries that allows to refuse extradition if the accused might face the death penalty. Prosecutors in North Carolina eventually agreed not to seek the death penalty in September 2023 in an effort to speed the process along.

Court documents indicate that both Alder Marin-Sotelo and his brother are scheduled for arraignment in court on March 3.

Andrew Clark

Clark is the only Canadian citizen among the 29 prisoners. Known as El Dictador, or the Dictator, Mexican authorities captured Clark in Mexico in October 2024, and soon after the US Department of Justice hit him with a 16-count superseding indictment.

The DOJ alleges that Clark was one of two figures at the head of a massive drug-smuggling ring bringing hundreds of kilograms of cocaine, from Colombia, through Mexico and Southern California, to Canada and other locations in the United States, according to a department press release in October 2024.

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Hes further alleged to have ordered numerous murders. Clarks accused co-conspirator is a Canadian former Olympic snowboarder, Ryan Wedding, who remains at large in Mexico, according to the FBI.

Jose Angel Canobbio Inzunza

Also known as El Guerito and/or El 90, Canobbio is allegedly the leader of the armed group Los Chimales. According to Mexicos top security agency, Canobbio was the second in command of the criminal group Los Chapitos  a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel led by Joaquin El Chapo Guzmans sons.

In November 2024, a federal grand jury in Chicago indicted Canobbio for allegedly manufacturing cocaine, fentanyl, and other drugs in Mexico and importing them into the United States, according to the DOJ.

Norberto Valencia Gonzalez

Valencia is accused of money laundering as a financial operator for the Beltran Leyva Cartel, according to a press release from Mexicos federal security agency SSPC. US Attorney General Pam Bondis statement on his extradition says that he faces up to life imprisonment.

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In 2019, a Chicago grand jury accused him of drug related crimes and money laundering, according to court documents obtained by CNN.

Jose Alberto Garcia Vilano

Known by his nickname La Kena, Mexican authorities say Garcia is accused of drug trafficking and money laundering. Allegedly, Garcia was the leader of the Los Ciclones group in Matamoros, Tamaulipas, one of the Gulf Cartels offshoots. In a February 28 press release, the Justice Department said that Garcia was charged with drug trafficking and money-laundering-related crimes.

The Gulf Cartel is infamous for allegations that it kidnapped four American tourists in Tamaulipas in 2023, killing two. Authorities believe the cartel had mistaken the tourists for Haitian drug traffickers.

Evaristo Cruz Sanchez

Alias El Vaquero, according to SSPC, Cruz is accused of drug trafficking as a regional leader of the Gulf Cartel  one of the six Mexican cartels now considered terrorist organizations by the US government.

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In the same press release announcing Garcias capture, the Justice Department said that it charged Cruz in a nine-count indictment for his involvement in drug trafficking between 2015 through 2021.

Miguel and Omar Trevino Morales

Alleged former leaders of Los Zetas, like other members of the cartel, who often take on nommes de guerre beginning with Z, these two brothers are known by their respective aliases Z-40 and Z-42. Founded by former members of the Mexican Special Forces and once powerful, according to InSight Crime, the Los Zetas cartel is currently weak and fragmented.

Miguel is allegedly the founder of the Cartel del Noreste  now considered a terrorist group by the US. Before his capture in 2015, Omar was considered a potential successor, according to InSight Crime in 2021.

Who are the remaining 20 prisoners?

The other 20 prisoners are all accused members or lower-level leaders of cartels and other criminal groups in Mexico, according to a press release from Mexicos top security agency. Among them are alleged members of Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), Cartel Del Noreste, and the Sinaloa Cartel  all now considered terror organizations by the US government.

CNNs Hannah Rabinowitz, Lindsey Knight, Polo Sandoval and Christina Maxouris contributed reporting.

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Texas ranchers are facing devastating losses after fertilizer contaminated with dangerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances poisoned their livestock and land. A recent article in The Texas Tribune highlighted growing concerns about these toxic chemicals entering the food supply.

What's happening?

Multiple Texas farming families have discovered that their land and animals were poisoned by fertilizer containing PFAS, human-made chemicals found in everyday products. The fertilizer, made from processed sewage sludge called biosolids, was promoted as an environmentally friendly option for years.

"This is destroying our lives," said Tony Coleman, a rancher in Grandview, referring to his dead livestock in the article. "You never know what you're going to get every day when you get down here."

When heavy rains washed the fertilizer onto neighboring properties in Johnson County, livestock began dying and water sources showed dangerous contamination levels. County testing found 27 types of PFAS chemicals in the fertilizer, leading affected farmers to file lawsuits against the fertilizer companies and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Why is PFAS contamination important?

The contamination creates an impossible situation for farmers and ranchers. They can't ethically sell potentially contaminated meat, but continuing to care for livestock they can't sell threatens financial ruin.

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An estimated 5% of all U.S. crop fields  up to 20 million acres  may have used similar fertilizer made from processed sewage sludge containing PFAS. These "forever chemicals" don't break down in the environment and can accumulate in the human body, potentially causing cancer, birth defects, liver damage, and other serious health problems.

What's being done about PFAS contamination?

Several states now regulate PFAS in agricultural fertilizers. Michigan requires testing biosolids for PFAS before application on farmland and prohibits use above certain levels, and Maine and Connecticut have banned biosolids on agricultural fields entirely. While Texas currently has no such regulations, six counties have passed resolutions calling for restrictions and testing.

Ellen Mallory, a professor of agriculture at the University of Maine, noted the importance of state response to PFAS in the article: "The important part here is it's really hard to have any response to PFAS contamination if we don't have any standards. So a state like Texas that has no standards, what do you do? How do you help farmers determine if their food is safe or not?"

While we wait for more states to take action, concerned citizens can make a difference. Write to your state representatives urging them to support PFAS testing and regulations, and consider reducing your use of products containing PFAS, including nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging, as this helps limit these chemicals entering wastewater systems.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
The Montana state capitol pictured after a late-night Senate vote on Jan. 9, 2025. (Micah Drew/Daily Montanan)

A legislator from the Bitterroot Valley resigned from the Montana Legislature on Monday, citing corruption in a Capitol run by lobbyists.

Rep. Rob Marshall, R-Hamilton, posted on social media Monday morning that he intended to resign his position at noon, and confirmed to media hed submitted his resignation letter to the Speaker of the House. The three-term legislator blamed corruption among elected officials in the Capitol and the Department of Justice, who are bought and paid for by lobbyists, specifically those in the tobacco industry.

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This is a resignation because I dont want to swim in the swamp anymore, Marshall told reporters. Why would I want to stay? Im not a corrupt person. Why do I want to stay around a bunch of corrupt people?

Marshall, who did not make specific allegations or provide evidence, said the main impetus for his decision was a piece of legislation aimed at regulating nicotine vapor products. Marshall owns two vape shops in the state  one in the Bitterroot and one in Belgrade.

House Bill 525, carried by Rep. Amy Regier, R-Kalispell, creates a registry for vapor products containing nicotine, allowing only the sale of products that are registered with the Attorney General and have obtained marketing authorization from the FDA.

The bill is purported to help regulate the industry, prevent products from reaching underaged children, and push out disposable products and Chinese-manufactured products. But Marshall said that the Big Tobacco companies are pushing the legislation, because those companies have a head start with the FDA.

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The only authorized products that are on the market right now through the FDA are Big Tobacco products  Reynolds, British American Tobacco, Altria, you know, Juul, Marshall told reporters. This bill, basically what it is, is a monopoly bill.

Similar bills have been passed or proposed in all but a handful of states and Marshall said the same industry people wrote them all.

The House Taxation Committee amended HB 525 to subject nicotine vapes to the same tax as other nicotine products  50% on wholesale costs  which Marshall said was a shot in the face.

Rep. Ron Marshall resigned midway through the session in 2025. (Provided by the Montana Legislature)

I take it personally, very personally, Marshall said. It came out of (committee), 21-zip with a Republican majority and you call yourselves conservative Republicans?

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Marshall has used his position in the Legislature to push bills related to the tobacco and vaping laws  in the 2025 session, 6 of his 17 requested bills dealt with those topics.

During previous sessions, Marshall said there was a greater appetite among legislators and the GOP leadership to work together and hear each other out on the merits of various pieces of legislation, but that this year there is more wheeling and dealing going on in Helena.

The Attorney Generals bought and paid for, leaderships been bought and paid for  You know, theyre all in it. Theyre all involved in it, along with the lobbyists, Marshall said. The lobbyists run this capitol. Dont ever think that the people have a say up here, because you dont.

Marshall recently sued large tobacco companies alleging they were violating a decades-long settlement with the state by lobbying against legislation he was carrying, and that Attorney General Austin Knudsen was not doing his job because of his relationship with Big Tobacco. The lawsuit was dismissed by a federal judge last week.

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Asked if his resignation left his constituents hanging, without a voice on dozens of bills the House is voting on each day, Marshall responded You could say that, yeah.

Per state law, if a vacancy for the Legislature occurs, the county central committee from that political party forwards three candidate recommendations to the county commissions for selection. Since the legislature is in session, the nomination and selection process must occur within 10 total days.

Republican leaders in Ravalli County decried Marshalls decision on Monday.

Ravalli County Republican Central Committee chairman Ron Stoltz told the Daily Montanan that Marshall had texted him about the resignation, but did not talk to him at length about his decision.

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I think it was a very poor decision at the moment, Stoltz said. You were elected for a position, and to quit in the middle isnt right.

Ravalli County Commission Chairperson Dan Huls said he was aware of Marshalls resignation but had not received official word as of midday Monday.

Huls said once the commission receives official notification about the resignation, commissioners will consult with the county attorney about whether the rules for appointing a replacement are different during a legislative session, and if so, how.

He said he is concerned to have an entire district left unrepresented with half of the legislative session yet to go, and he anticipates moving as expeditiously as possible to fill the gap.

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Im disappointed that Mr. Marshall chose to resign mid-session and not ride it out, Huls said. I wish that hadnt occurred.

House Republican leaders released a statement thanking Marshall for his service.

Since his election, Representative Marshall has been a strong advocate for his constituents, and we appreciate his contribution to the Legislature, the statement said. As we move forward, Montana House Republicans will continue serving the people of Montana and delivering on the commitments weve made to our constituents.

Marshall said he will be happy to no longer be working with such obviously corrupt government officials.

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The people need to understand that if you want your voice heard up here, you get rid of all these lobbyists. Get rid of them all because its the absolute worst thing that could happen to a citizen government, Marshall said. So Im going to go back to being a citizen.

The Secretary of States office on Monday afternoon confirmed it had received Marshalls resignation.

Editors note: Keila Szpaller contributed to this story.

Adobe Scan Mar 03, 2025
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Raymore man has been sentenced to over two decades in prison after he was involved in a shooting that left two men dead at a Blue Springs park in April 2024.

According to the Jackson County Prosecutors Office, Marquis E. Savannah was sentenced to 25 years last week after he pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter and armed criminal action.

Two 2-year-olds killed in overnight house fire in Butler, Missouri

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Court documents said that on the night of Saturday, April 13, 2024, just after 10:30 p.m., officers were called to Wilbur Young Park, near the sand volleyball courts, in Blue Springs.

Police said two men were killed  19-year-old LaDronal Hamilton Jr. of Kansas City and 20-year-old Karmello Matlock of Independence  and a 17-year-old was injured in the shooting.

Following the deadly shooting, two men were listed as suspects, including then-18-year-old Savannah. He was later charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action, but after his guilty plea, his murder charge was changed to voluntary manslaughter.

According to court records, video surveillance footage on the night of the shooting showed an argument between several people at the park.

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Detectives said Savannah had charged one of the victims and began fighting with them. The video then showed the gun falling and Savannah shooting at one of the victims.

It was also reported that the other suspect, who was not named because they are/were a juvenile, was seen pulling out an additional gun and firing at the other victim.

Multiple arrested in connection to Chillicothe shooting that left 18-year-old injured

Now, Savannah will serve 25 years for the deadly shooting, 15 years for the voluntary manslaughter charge, and 10 years for the armed criminal action charge.

Two young lives were cut short, and another young person will now spend decades behind bars as a consequence of his actions. Violence will never be tolerated, regardless of ones age, said Prosecutor Johnson. Our office remains committed to seeking justice for victims and their families.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
The Connecticut Department of Transportation is up for another busy year repairing state roads and bridges.

And that means motorists need to know: There are 532 active capital projects planned for this year to be aware of while traveling on state highways, bridges and roads.

There are currently 181 in construction, 185 in planning, 110 in final design, 40 in predesign and 16 in contract processing, according to DOT.

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Among the multi-year projects are the largest in the state continuing this year: the East Lyme Interstate-95 Interchange 74 Improvements at Route 161, the I-91/I-691/Route 15 Interchange Project that spans Meriden and Middletown as well as the Norwalk Bridge Transmission Relocation Project in Norwalk.

Its going to be a busy construction season, state Department of Transportation Communications Director Josh Morgan said. We have a lot of major projects that are in the middle of the process and years two, three and four is when that really picks up.

Theres a lot of projects happening all over Connecticut. We certainly hear the frustration from the residents in the state about getting stuck in traffic because of a lane closing. But progress is going to take some patience and there is a lot of infrastructure coming into the state in the coming months.

Morgans plea is for state drivers to be mindful of people working on roads and railways in work zones.

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Theres billions of dollars in projects out there but these arent only projects. These are men and women working on roadways and rail lines. We need drivers to be knowledgeable about that and drive safely through work zones so our workers can go home after their shifts, Morgan said.

Here are the major projects:

Meriden/Middletown

Work continues on the I-91, I-691, Route 15 Interchange in Meriden. Improvements are on a segment of Interstate 91 that provides access to the Wilbur Cross Parkway, Interstate 691 and East Main Street in Meriden and Middletown, with the goal of improving safety associated with crashes caused by congestion and weaving, as well as reducing traffic congestion.

All three highways in the project limits consist of a complex system of mainline lanes, weave sections, and ramp connections that form the I-91/I-691/Route 15 Interchange, a CTDOT report said. This interchange is a critical link for passengers and freight in the Northeast regional transportation network, connecting the I-84 and I-91 corridors between southern New York and Connecticut to points north in Massachusetts and beyond.

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The DOT said the project is in the first of three phases. The four parts of Phase 1 are to realign and widen the ramp from I-691 eastbound to I-91 northbound (Exit 1A old Exit 11) to two lanes to meet traffic demand; bridge replacement due to the proposed ramp realignment and widening; provide one additional lane on I-91 northbound to relieve congestion caused by a steep uphill grade, and bridge widening due to the added lane.

Phase 2 includes a new two-lane exit ramp from Route 15 northbound to I-91 northbound to reduce traffic congestion on the Exit 68 northeast ramp; closing the existing Exit 17 ramp from I-91 northbound to Route 15 northbound and re-route traffic to Exit 16 to provide a two-lane exit ramp with a right-side traffic merge onto Route 15 northbound; widening the existing Exit 68W ramp from Route 15 northbound to I-691 westbound to two lanes and reconfiguring acceleration and deceleration lanes to provide adequate traffic weaving distances.

Phase 3 includes a new two-lane exit ramp from Route 15 southbound to I-91 southbound to reduce traffic congestion on the existing Exit 67 ramp; a new two-lane I-91 southbound ramp to Route 15 SB to reduce traffic congestion on the existing Exit 17 ramp; widening the ramp from I-691 eastbound to Route 15 southbound (Exit 10) to two lanes and widening the ramp from I-91 southbound to I-691 westbound (Exit 18) to two lanes, according to DOT.

Last I looked, that project will wrap up in 2030, we still have Phase 3 to do and then the opposite direction, Morgan said. There is a lot of work to do there to untangle that interchange. It isnt meeting the travel demand. Even on good days people are getting into crashes and its going to take some time.

East Lyme

Work continues on the East Lyme Interstate-95 Exit 74 Improvements at Route 161 and a bridge replacement. The project began in spring 2023 and is scheduled to be completed in spring 2027, according to DOT.

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Improvements the project will make to I-95 in the work zone include improving the vertical geometry and increasing design speeds throughout; left and right 12-foot shoulders in both directions; adding a six-foot raised median, added auxiliary lanes between interchanges 74 and 75 and to extend and rebuild on-off ramps to increase acceleration and deceleration lanes, according to DOT.

The bridge will be replaced and widened with improved vertical/horizontal distances and clearances, which will allow for turning lane improvements on I-95 and additional capacity of Route 161.

The Route 161 improvements include widening the road to accommodate a roadway cross-section of four 11-foot travel lanes and 11-foot auxiliary turn lanes; five-foot shoulders; four-foot utility buffer; five-foot concrete sidewalk, as well as commuter lot relocation and improvements.

Due to the existing conditions, this area of I-95 has a posted speed limit of only 50 MPH. The on and off ramps at Exit 74 on I-95 lack the proper acceleration and deceleration lanes that merge on and off I-95. The existing ramps also have very tight turns. Additionally, motorists driving on Route 161 southbound are required to make a near-hairpin left turn to access the I-95 northbound on-ramp. This improvement will include a dedicated right-hand turn exit lane to enter I-95 northbound, according to DOT.

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The work on I-95 is 1.33 miles and the work on Route 161 is 0.59 miles, while the work on Frontage Road is 0.25 miles long. There will be a total of six stages of construction.

East Lyme First Selectman Dan Cunningham said the project has been on schedule and crews will be dismantling the old bridge sometime next month, which may lead to some road closures and delays.

If youve driven in that area lately, you cant miss that big mountain of dirt on the side of the highway. Thats where the highway is going to be and that will be used to elevate the road up 14 feet or so, Cunningham said. They are working where the old northbound lane was and because of that we havent seen much interruption at all on 161 or the highway.

Cunningham said as of Feb. 4 the project was at the halfway point; he said 58 percent of the funding of the original estimate had been used.

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Cunningham said there has always been a bottleneck in that area of Exit 74, but the project will streamline traffic.

The biggest thing is safety on I-95 and expanding those lanes that were originally built in the late 50s, Cunningham said. There have been a shocking number of bad accidents, fatalities in that area over the years. That part of the highway would dip and rise up again. It had to be corrected. Part of it is the radius of the exits themselves. They werent designed right. The exits should have an increasing radius.

When this project is done its going to be a safer passage through East Lyme, he said.

Morgan confirmed the project is more than 50 percent done and will be finished in a year and a half to two years. He said the project includes correcting road geometry and has included rock blasting.

Norwalk

A project for the Norwalk Bridge Transmission Relocation Project is in the design stages. The Norwalk River Railroad Bridge, also known as the WALK Bridge, is the centerpiece of the project, which comprises several inter-related rail and infrastructure projects.

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The WALK Bridge is a four-track railroad bridge that serves as a critical link in the busiest rail corridor in the nation, the Northeast Corridor, according to the project website.

The WALK Bridge is 564-feet-long and is 128 years old and the project will enhance commuter rail safety, commuting reliability and increase operational efficiency along the New Haven Line and Northeast Corridor, the report states.

The bridge is a four-track railroad that crosses the Norwalk River and is one of the oldest moveable bridges in the region. Pre-pandemic, an estimated 125,000 passengers and 175 trains traveled over the WALK Bridge daily.

The Department of Transportation commissioner signed an emergency declaration in 2014 on the structure. The bridge failed 16 times of 271 openings in 2013 and failed twice within a two-week period in 2014.

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That one has been going on for a couple of years and its not just the WALK Bridge, there are several other bridges we are working on in that area. This is a very large project. We cant just shut down the road, so we have to do a section at a time and that makes projects stretch out over the years, Morgan said.

Hartford

The Dutch Point Viaduct along Interstate-91 southbound in Hartford is under construction. The project is to upgrade integrity of the bridge and repair the bridge drainage system.

The viaduct carries 1-91 southbound over Connecticut Southern Railroad, the I-91 north to westbound Whitehead Highway Turning Road (state road 598 westbound), eastbound Whitehead Highway to northbound I-91 Turning Road (Turning Road 803), and the Park River Conduit, according to DOT.

On Dutch Point, we are breaking ground and getting going on that, Morgan said. The project is going to have nightly closures in I-91 in the overnight hours. We try to work after the (evening) rush and before the (morning) rush.

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Multiple bridges are in the design phase on I-84, including the Bulkeley Bridge, over the Connecticut River as well as the Founders Bridge for repairs and better drainage.

Middletown

The Route 17 on-ramp to Route 9 in Middletown project is in the works to reduce crashes on the northbound exchange. The northbound crash rate is significantly higher than adjacent freeway segments.

The project will construct a full-length acceleration lane for Route 17 northbound to merge with Route 9 north and the road will require a full structure replacement and the road will be widened.

The Harbor Drive on-ramp to Route 9 will be closed and will eventually be replaced with an acceleration lane.

The existing weave on Route 17 northbound was analyzed and it was determined that the congestion experienced on the weave was a result of the traffic signals on Route 9 and that a two-lane cross section has adequate capacity. This two-lane section allows us to maintain the existing sight distance through the curve, the DOT report stated.

The Main Street Extension and Route 17 interchange will serve as primary access to Route 9

for the southern section of downtown Middletown, following the Harbor Drive interchange being closed.

With added traffic to that area, improvements are proposed to add dedicated lanes to the Main Street Extension and the Route 17 off-ramps to increase traffic capacity.

The Route 17 southbound on-ramp will be realigned with the Route 17 southbound off-ramp to create a more typical intersection configuration and will be signalized, according to DOT.

Middletown Mayor Ben Florsheim said the Route 17 project is under way and shoulders or lanes have been closed as work has been done.

On the 17 interchange we are seeing rear-end accidents almost every day, Florsheim said. The Harbor Drive entrance will be closed into a full acceleration lane. Drivers floor it to get to a stop sign. Then you have to floor it go get up to speed and it has made for a dangerous situation. The road will turn to a dead-end street to the harbor.

Florsheim said the timeline is for the project to be completed sometime this year.

Also on Route 9, a project to remove to traffic signals on Route 9 in Middletown is in the design phases with the goal to improve safety and reduce congestion. Florsheim said this project wouldnt start until 2027.

According to the CTDOT report, the two traffic signals directly contribute to crash rates significantly higher than adjacent segments of freeway.

The plan calls for the removal of the traffic signals on Washington Street (Exit 15) and Hartford Avenue (Old Exit 16).

On Hartford Avenue, removal of the traffic signal is expected to free the flow for acceleration from Hartford Avenue to Route 9 northbound crossing under southbound. The acceleration lane will be constructed in the existing median or Route 9 northbound until Exit 18, according to DOT.

As far as Washington Street, a new off-ramp from Route 9 northbound is proposed to provide access to River Road, about 3,500 feet south of Washington Street. The acceleration lane to Route 9 will provide access from Washington Street prior to Exit 13. Existing access to Route 9 southbound will be direct towards previous access to Route 66, according to the DOT.

A 200-foot right turn lane is proposed on Rapallo Avenue at Main Street to alleviate traffic from building up into Washington Street intersection onto the Route 9 northbound ramp. The lane will be widened about by five feet.

We are a little ways out but we are no longer in the early phase of planning, Florsheim said. The highway was once a local road and thats why it has stop lights on it. This latest proposal is the most workable one. There are constraints with the river on one side and the railroad tracks on the other side. Theres not a lot of flexibility. There is a daily reality of accidents and congestion. The proposal is one that makes Route 9 in Middletown operate more like a local road rather than a huge structure that brings cars over.

Florsheim said there are also plans for a pedestrian bridge over the highway that would give access from downtown to the harbor. He said there have been formal efforts to remove the lights since 2014, but its been discussed for much longer.

One of our strongest assets of our city is the riverfront, Florsheim said.

West Haven

Two bridges on Interstate-95 between Exits 43 and 44 are being replaced and widened, one is over Metro-North Railroad, the other is over First Avenue, according to DOT.

Drainage repair and improvements, guardrail and barrier upgrades, illumination and Incident Management System upgrades will be among work. There will be a new southbound lane between Exit 44 on-ramp and the Exit 43 southbound off ramp. There will also be standard shoulders in each direction between the bridge on First Avenue and the bridge over the West River, according to DOT.

New London and Groton

DOT is in Phase 1 of the Gold Star Memorial Bridge Rehabilitation. The project is on Interstate-95 northbound over the Thames River between New London and Groton.

The project will address structural deficiencies of the bridge and to extend its service life.

The project involves a series of steel repairs and strengthening of truss members by adding additional steel plates to the existing structure. Existing rivets will be removed and replaced with high-strength bolts. All newly installed steel members will be galvanized, DOT said.

Ansonia/Derby/Seymour/Shelton

The project is on Route 8 northbound, beginning in Shelton at Platt Road and extends 8.80 miles through Derby, Ansonia and Seymour.

The work includes resurfacing, bridge rehabilitation and safety improvements that include improved illumination and updated roadside safety hardware.

Workers will repair deteriorated underlying concrete pavement on the mainline and ramps which will require milling of the existing bituminous wearing surface to expose the concrete pavement, according to DOT.

Milling will be performed curb to curb on the highway for about 6.5 miles and ramp work will finish at the end of the on/off ramps. Drainage pipes beneath Route 8 will be rehabilitated or replaced. Also, the existing barrier will be replaced by a 45-inch-tall concrete median barrier.

East Haddam

The East Haddam Swing Bridge on Route 82 over the Connecticut River is under construction after being identified as being structurally deficient due to the deterioration and poor condition of the steel truss members and floor beams.

The swing span has also had operational problems, and the work will improve the swing span.

According to the DOT, the swing bridge is a four-span structure that is west-to-east in orientation. All four spans will have parts rehabilitated, repaired or replaced.
By any reasonable measure, New York Citys congestion pricing policythe hotly contested $9 toll to enter the city center, to reduce auto pollution and raise money for the public transit systemis working. These, however, are not metrics that interest the Trump administration.



Auto traffic is down 7.5 percent by one estimate. Pedestrian traffic is rising, delivering striking benefits to the local economy: Retail sales in lower Manhattan were $900 million higher this January compared to last January, and restaurant reservations are up 7 percent. Revenue for the public transit system is flowing in to the tune of $48.6 million, which means that the MTA will be able to build extensive improvements to the system. For those still choosing to drive in and out of the city, the ride is faster. Air quality is probably improving along with decreased emissions, though it will take time to gather data on those improvements. People may be building lifelong planet-saving habits of riding public transit rather than driving their cars.

President Trump doesnt seem to like any of this, and has ordered New York to shut the program down by March 19. Suddenly, congestion pricing has become an early indicator for the prospects for blue-state resistance to the Trump administration, as Governor Kathy Hochul and the MTA head to court to try to save the program. For a few reasons, congestion pricing is critical terrain on which to fight.

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By defending congestion pricing, Hochul is not just defending good policy, the environment, and the quality of urban life, though she is doing that. She is also setting an example to other governors in her party: If she succeeds, she may embolden others. Caving to Trumps bullying would be a huge mistake, considering that Trump clearly sees killing the policy as a flex for his new autocratic powers. CONGESTION PRICING IS DEAD  LONG LIVE THE KING, the president posted on X, earlier this month.

Note how Trumps monarchic delusions and hatred for congestion pricing seem to be intertwined: He wants to make an example of New York, to send a message to other cities and states that the king must not be defied.

If Trump seems weirdly obsessed with congestion pricing, its because he is. Trump knows he has many fans among conservative suburbanites who love car culture andwith equal passionhate and fear the subway, seeing it as a symbol of the chaos and danger in urban life, devouring every scary subway story and raging at the idea that their driving should fund this cesspool of crime. It is a culture war, for sure, and not a particularly new one; the provincial and cosmopolitan strains of American life have always been at odds. But this one also dovetails easily with the Trump/Musk administrations zeal for killing and discrediting the government; its important to them to stop this bold government solution to improve our lives because real solutions and positive experiences with government endanger the entire right-wing project.

Congestion pricing also offends the right-wing mind because it encourages people to get out of their private cars and onto our collective, shared public transit.

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Trump and his transportation secretary, Sean Duffy, have called the policy unfair to the working class. But thats largely faux populism on their part, since far more working-class people ride the subway than commute to Manhattan by car. (Anyway, since when do they care about the working class? Trump is not even trying to protect Medicaid.) Its clear that what really offends the Trumpists is that the policy is unabashedly anti-car and propublic transit. Duffys letter to Governor Kathy Hochul on the matter focused on that issue, calling it backwards and unfair that congestion pricing takes more money from working people to pay for a transit system and not highways.

Trump is an oddity in being a right-winger of urban origins: Contemporary American conservatism almost requires a person to hate cities. For the Trumpist far right, the urban landscape is populated with everyone they hate: childless women, immigrants, queers. But even for less extreme conservatives, cities have always been unpalatable. Even if they can stomach the unconventional mores and the human diversitya big lift for many of themthe urban experience simply demands more socialism than conservatives can tolerate. You can live at the end of a remote country road, keep your taxes low and your yard well tended, clenching your teeth as you drive over the potholes. But in a densely populated city, you need subways and buses to get around, and where else can your kids play but in a public park? Cities are a collective project, requiring public investment to succeed, and thats one reason why, historically, their citizenry hasnt formed the base of the Republican Party. Despite his being from New York, Trumps view of urban life is no different from any other conservatives, and can be summarized succinctly as, This sucks. Keep drivingthough Long live the King is admittedly a fresh twist.

But the Trump versus congestion pricing fight has high stakes for the entire nation. The question is not just whether a president suffering from narcissistic royalist fantasies can punish a city where he knows hes unpopular. Its also whether we are going to be able to solve important problems in our society, even as the wrecking ball of the Trump/Musk administration lays waste to our federal government. Trump is right to identify congestion pricing as a policy that is especially antithetical to his anti-urban, individualistic values. Thats just one reason among many that we should fight hard to save it.
Boston police are still investigating a deadly Saturday night on Boylston Street

A knife-wielding man was allegedly chasing two others into Chick-fil-A when he was approached by an off-duty officer, who shot and killed the man after he refused to disarm himself.

The man was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

A sign is hanging on the Chick-fil-A front door telling customers theyll be shut down Monday in light of the investigation.

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Bostonians stopped by the fast food chain Sunday to check out the scene.

Its really just shocking, said Attara Gonzalez who lives near Copley Square. Im just glad no one else didnt get hurt... You always just have to stay aware of stuff because unfortunately, you dont know when stuff like that is going to happen.

Fiona Hennely and David Murphy of Ireland have been vacationing for the last week just a block away from the crime scene.

Hennely explained, You wouldnt expect that kind of thing in this area of Boston... Literally, were staying right there, and we were like, Oh my God, we couldve been here last night.

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Police have been scouring the area over the last 24 hours, searching for eyewitnesses and additional surveillance. City leadership has yet to identify the attacker but claims those involved are young.

Police believe there are more people involved, asking those who know more to reach out to their homicide unit.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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DAKAR, Senegal (AP)  Rwanda-backed M23 rebels abducted at least 130 sick and wounded men from two hospitals in a major city in eastern Congo, the United Nations said Monday.

On Feb. 28, M23 fighters raided the CBCA Ndosho Hospital and Heal Africa Hospital in Goma, a strategic city they seized earlier this year, the U.N. Human Rights Office spokesperson, Ravina Shamdasani, said in a statement.

The rebels took 116 patients from CBCA and 15 others from Heal Africa they suspected of being Congolese army soldiers or members of the pro-government Wazalendo militia.

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It is deeply distressing that M23 is snatching patients from hospital beds in coordinated raids and holding them incommunicado in undisclosed locations, Shamdasani said, calling for their immediate release.

M23 rebels have swept through eastern Congo since the beginning of the year, seizing key cities and killing some 3,000 people in the most significant escalation of conflict in over a decade.

In a lightning three-week offensive, the M23 took control of eastern Congos main city Goma and seized the second largest city, Bukavu. The region is rich in gold and coltan, a key mineral for the production of capacitors used in most consumer electronics, such as laptops and smartphones.

The rebels are supported by about 4,000 troops from neighboring Rwanda, according to U.N. experts, and at times have vowed to march as far as Congos capital, Kinshasa, over 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) away.

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Rwanda has accused Congo of enlisting ethnic Hutu fighters responsible for the 1994 genocide in Rwanda of minority Tutsis and moderate Hutus.

M23 says its fighting to protect Tutsis and Congolese of Rwandan origin from discrimination and wants to transform Congo from a failed state to a modern one. Analysts have called those pretexts for Rwandas involvement.

At least 11 people were killed and scores injured last week when explosions in Bukavu struck a rally held by leaders of the M23 rebel group.
A disabled U.S. Army veteran who was recently fired from her job with the Office of Veterans Affairs in Buffalo will accompany U.S. Sen. Charles Schuer, D-New York, when he attends President Donald Trumps Joint Session of Congress.

Schumer announced that he has invited Alissa Ellman, a Niagara University graduate who served in Afghanistan and who was fired from her job with the VA last week, to hear Trump speak to members of Congress.

Ellman is one of hundreds of thousands of federal workers who have been fired by the Trump administration under the directive of the Department of Government Efficiency, directed by billionaire Tesla owner Elon Musk.

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Alissa Ellman dedicated her life to service for our country, both in the Army, where she suffered injuries, and here in Western NY helping her fellow veterans while working at the Buffalo VA, Schumer said in a release from his office. Firing her, firing veterans and slashing thousands from the VA workforce is outrageous and should be reversed. This is not how you treat our veterans  its not just unacceptable, its un-American.

According to Schumers office, Ellman found herself locked out of her computer, with both her and her boss thinking at first it was an error, only to later find out she had been fired.

Ellman said she never felt so disrespected after giving so much. She will attend President Trumps Joint Address to Congress Tuesday evening as Schumers honored guest.

I am speaking out because I cannot see how employing veterans in the federal government is fraud, waste, or abuse, she said. Veterans are some of the best people I know. Veterans have sacrificed for this country; they are the ones who have been defrauded  their talents wasted and service abused. For many of us these jobs are more than a job, they are how we continue our service, continue our devotion to make America a better place. Im not telling you my story for pity; my life will be fine. But we need to be making more thoughtful cuts to the federal workforce, not our vets.

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Ellman joined the Army National Guard at the age of 17, and she returned from basic training to high school 10 days before the Sept. 11 attack which further spurred her desire to serve her country. She deployed to Afghanistan voluntarily from January 2003 to June 2004 as a flight operation specialist. She returned to the Afghanistan with Halliburton from 2005-2008 managing flight line operations in Kandahar. In 2008, Alissa returned to Western New York, started a family and later graduate Magnum Cum Laude from Niagara University with a degree in Special Education.

In 2018, Alissa was diagnosed with a rare adrenal cancer, pheochromocytoma, associated with toxic burn pit exposure during her service in Afghanistan. After 5 years of treatment at the VA, she was deemed 100% disabled, a diagnosis she never envisioned, but knew that she continued to want to serve her community.

In December 2023, she began to apply to work at the Buffalo VA working for the education department to help fellow veterans as that means to give back. Not taking the job for the money, receiving only a few dollars more per month on top of her VA disability payments, but to continue to help the community she cared so deeply about, eventually being hired in April 2024.

According to Schumers office, she met all the training and meeting production numbers, and in January had a 200% daily production average. When the VA began announcing the cuts under the new administration, she told her friends she was safe because she always exceeded work goals, but she was wrong.

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Schumer said the Trump administrations fire first, ask questions later approach to cutting federal jobs has had a significant impact on veterans who represent 30% of the total federal workforce reductions so far. Schumer said Trumps hiring freeze has also led to hundreds of cuts for VA health research, including projects to study burn pit exposure and most recently contracts with VA to help vets with toxic exposure were temporarily suspended.

Schumer described it as an horrific pattern of cuts and firings that have directly hit care for veterans in across upstate New York, including the VA in Buffalo.
Modern reciprocating engines are enabling reliable power generation while balancing renewable energy growth. Their rapid-response capabilities and multi-fuel flexibility are crucial to grid stability. Real-world applications and emerging sustainable fuel options demonstrate how this technology bridges current power needs with future environmental goals. In an era where grid reliability and flexibility are paramount, reciprocating engine technology has emerged as a crucial component in modern power generation systems. These versatile engines, which operate on the same fundamental principles as automobile engines but on a much larger scale, provide unique advantages that complement the evolving needs of our electrical infrastructure. Their ability to start quickly, adjust output rapidly, and operate efficiently across varying loads makes them incredibly valuable assets in a grid increasingly dependent on intermittent renewable energy sources. The integration of reciprocating engines into power plants (Figure 1) addresses several critical challenges facing todays electrical grid. Unlike larger combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) plants that may take hours to reach full capacity, engines can achieve full power within minutes, providing essential backup during unexpected demand spikes or renewable energy shortfalls. This rapid-response capability, combined with their modular nature, allows power plant operators to precisely match generation to demand, improving overall system efficiency.

1. Heber Light and Power, a public power provider based in Heber City, Utah, operates a reciprocating engine power plant featuring Caterpillar technology. Courtesy: Caterpillar

Beyond their operational flexibility, reciprocating engines represent a bridge between traditional and future power generation paradigms. Their ability to run on various fuels, including natural gas, biogas, and hydrogen blends, positions them as adaptable assets in the transition toward cleaner energy sources. As utilities work to balance reliability with environmental responsibility, engines provide a practical solution that supports grid stability while accommodating the growing integration of renewable energy resources.

Engines Fill Multiple Roles

The integration of intermittent renewable energy resources to the power grid is still a challenge for our customers, Michael Fiedler, senior business development manager for the Power segment with MAN Energy Solutions, told POWER. Here, our gas engine power plants are an ideal match to close the gaps in the energy supply by balancing the fluctuations caused by intermittent renewable energy resources. We are convinced that flexible and decentralized, gas-fired power plants will play a decisive role for a secure power supply on the pathway toward 100% renewable energy. Fiedler said an increasing number of combined heat and power (CHP) plants is already relying on gas engine technology. Especially in Germany we are actually leading in gas-engine-powered CHP plants with numerous projects in cities such as Chemnitz, Frankfurt an der Oder, and Schabisch-Hall. Especially in regard to the decision to phase-out coal in Germany, these gas-fired CHP plants will gain importance since they use resources more effectivelywith high overall efficiencies of over 90%and consequently emitting less CO 2 , he said. Gas engines are also an ideal match for the power requirements of data centers. These applications especially need a reliable and flexible power supply in order to ensure a very high availability. Further integration of renewable energies into the grid, leading to fluctuations in the power supply, can result in the requirement for a data center to temporarily reduce its power consumption from the grid. In these cases, a gas engine power plant can be ramped up and down quickly to compensate for fluctuations in the energy supply. By doing so, the use of renewable energy can be maximized at all times, keeping costs and the carbon footprint as low as possible while ensuring a reliable energy supply. Meanwhile, a gas engine power plant is also an excellent option for non-grid-connected data centers. Engines are a proven and reliable technology that can provide the necessary flexibility for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, which are expected to have a fluctuating load profile. Furthermore, if the data center gets a grid connection after-the-fact, the power plant can be used for providing grid services. For example, the U.S. is currently the country where the most data centers are being planned and built worldwide, Fiedler said. Data centers in the U.S. currently require about 25 GW of power generation capacities. It is estimated that this will rise to 47 GW by 2030. In order to meet this demand, the necessary investments in the energy supply are estimated at around $50 billion. Gas engine power plants play an important role here to secure the supply at any time of day and in any weather.

Fuel Flexibility

Natural gas remains the primary fuel for most reciprocating engine power plants, offering relatively clean combustion and widespread availability through existing infrastructure (Figure 2). However, the true value of these engines lies in their ability to operate on multiple alternative fuels, often with minimal modifications. In addition to pipeline natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), many engines can be designed to run on petroleum gas from oil production, biogas from landfills or wastewater treatment plants, synthetic gas from biomass gasification, propane as a backup fuel, crude oil and heavy fuel oil (HFO) in certain models, hydrogen blends (typically up to 25% hydrogen with natural gas), mine gas from coal operations, and field gas from oil and gas operations.

2. Four 20V35/44G TS gas engines with a total capacity of 48 MW were supplied by MAN Energy Solutions for a recently built power plant in the Indonesian city of Cicarang. Courtesy: MAN Energy Solutions

This fuel flexibility is crucial for several reasons. First, it provides energy security and reliability. If one fuel source becomes unavailable or cost-prohibitive, plants can switch to alternative fuels with minimal downtime. This is particularly valuable in regions with uncertain fuel supply chains or during natural disasters that might disrupt primary fuel delivery. Second, it enables plants to take advantage of market opportunities. When prices fluctuate between different fuel types, operators can switch to the most economical option, helping to maintain competitive electricity prices for consumers. This ability to arbitrage between fuels can significantly impact a plants operational economics. Third, fuel flexibility supports environmental goals and regulatory compliance. As emissions regulations evolve, plants can transition to cleaner fuels without requiring complete equipment replacement. The ability to use renewable fuels like biogas or hydrogen blends also helps utilities meet renewable portfolio standards and reduce their carbon footprint. Lastly, this versatility makes reciprocating engines particularly valuable in remote or island locations where fuel availability might be limited or inconsistent. Plants can be designed to run on whatever fuel sources are locally available, reducing dependence on imported fuels and enhancing energy independence. Our future-proof gas engines offer a clear path toward net zero, Fiedler said. Already today, our gas engines can run on a variety of climate-neutral fuels such as biogas and synthetic natural gas (e-methane) derived from green hydrogen. Also, our 35/44G TS, 51/60G, and 51/60G TS gas engines are already H 2 -ready and can be operated with a hydrogen proportion of up to 25% by volume in the gas mixture. At the same time, we are working on future concepts that will enable hydrogen fueling of up to 100% as soon as hydrogen becomes available in large quantities. Caterpillar is another engine provider that has expanded its line of gas generator sets capable of running on hydrogen fuel. Caterpillar now offers gas gensets ranging in power from 400 kW to 4.5 MW, each with the capability of blending natural gas with up to 25% hydrogen by volume.

Real-World Success Stories

Scala Data Centers, a Latin American platform of data centers in the hyperscale market, completed a proof of concept (POC) confirming the technical feasibility of using hydro-treated vegetable oil (HVO), also known as green diesel, in its Caterpillar backup generators. Derived from renewable sources, green diesel undergoes a hydro-treatment process, transforming it into a high-quality fuel with reduced environmental impact. Replacing fossil diesel with HVO can decrease greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85%, according to Scala, which it said supports the companys commitment to sustainability. During the POC, conducted by Scalas Center of Excellence in Engineering in collaboration with its operations team and Sotreq, Caterpillars dealer in Brazil, HVO demonstrated excellent performance in backup generators, maintaining critical resilience of data centers without requiring changes to existing equipment, the company reported. We closely monitored Scalas test on Caterpillar equipment in a pioneering initiative in Latin America, Mauricio Garcia, director of Sotreqs Power Unit, said in a statement. The use of HVO in generators opens up a universe of possibilities, in addition to ensuring lower maintenance costs, preserving equipment, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, HVO is three times more expensive than diesel fuel at the present time in Latin America. Therefore, the widespread implementation of HVO in Scalas operations is not expected immediately. We closely monitor market trends, hoping to identify opportunities that could make the use of HVO economically viable on a larger scale, the company said. We anticipate that movements like ours will raise awareness within the supply chain about the substantial demand potential for HVO, prompting stakeholders to explore more attractive commercial terms conducive to its widespread adoption. In the U.S., more than 8 million gallons of HVO has been used to generate power by customers using Cat rental power solutions supplied by Peterson Power Systems, the local Cat dealer for electric power in northern California, Oregon, and southwest Washington. The Cat rental power solutions using HVO fuel have been predominantly used by utilities to supply energy around the clock during public safety power shutoffs and after wildfires damaged grid transmission lines in northern California. In Norway, STACK Infrastructure, a global developer and operator of data centers, implemented the use of HVO100the purest form of HVOas a standby power source for a new data center on its OSL04 campus in Holtskogen (Oslo). We have already implemented power plants with engines operating on biofuels, as our recent contract with French utility EDF for a 130-MW power plant on the island of Corsica [France] underlines, Fiedler said, noting that MAN Energy Solutions is also seeing demand for engines that can operate on synthetic fuels derived from electrolysis, such as green hydrogen, e-methane, and ammonia. Already today, our engines can be designed to operate on climate-neutral fuels like e-methane or be retrofitted at a later stage, based on availability of the fuels, he added. Furthermore, Fiedler said MAN Energy Solutions is collaborating with partners on two projects, called AmmoniaMot and HydroPoLEn, to develop advanced hydrogen and ammonia solutions. Both projects are supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

Aaron Larson is POWERs executive editor.
Newly obtained records  including text messages and internal reports  detail how Los Angeles officials scrambled to respond in the hours leading up to the devastating wildfires that swept through the city earlier this year.

The exchange of messages reveals how authorities initially assessed and activated the lowest level of emergency management to address the Palisades Fire, before the windswept blazes overwhelmed the response, displacing tens of thousands of residents in the Pacific Palisades area and testing the citys emergency response systems.

The Palisades and Eaton wildfires  the most destructive in recent years  left 29 people dead and scorched nearly 60,000 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. More than half of the deaths were reported in areas where residents said they either did not receive evacuation orders or did so hours after the rapidly spreading blaze started.

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In the aftermath, fire officials have faced criticism over their early response and questions have been raised over whether the devastation could have been minimized.

On February 21, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass removed Kristin Crowley from her post as LA Fire Chief over her handling of the response, citing her decision to send home firefighters that could have been on duty the morning the fires broke out, and called for a full investigation of everything leading up to January 7 when the fires began.

Crowley, a 25-year LA Fire Department veteran who played a central role in coordinating the citys response, chose to remain in the civil service with a lower rank and has since appealed the decision to remove her.

New details about the discussions among local officials and their evolving views before, during and after the fires have emerged after hundreds of files related to the Palisades Fire response were released by the Emergency Management Department and LAFD to KABC-TV and ABC News through public records requests.

A crew from Los Angels Water and Power stands near a downed tree in the Boyle Heights section of Los Angeles, Thursday, December 1, 2011. - Chris Carlson/AP

Early warning

On January 6, in the hours ahead of the fire, the National Weather Service warned that a life-threatening and destructive windstorm could cause a blaze as damaging, if not worse, than the 2011 Pasadena fires, when powerful Santa Ana winds uprooted hundreds of trees and left parts of the San Gabriel Valley without power for days.

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Impacts like this may not happen everywhere, but are possible anywhere, the service noted, in an archived briefing from January 6. NOW is the time to act, the briefing read.

Emails obtained by ABC News show that Los Angeles city officials, including those in the citys Emergency Management Department, used weather service briefings as a guide the same day of the alarming forecast.

Later that day, Carol Parks, the director of the EMD, notified Crowley that the citys Emergency Operations Center would be activated at Level 3 (lowest level with EMD staff) in anticipation of the worsening conditions, a text exchange shows.

Should conditions necessitate us elevating the EOC (emergency operations center) status, the three of us will need to remain in close contact, Parks wrote, appearing to reference Crowley and Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell.

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Crowley responded, in part, Ill be available to discuss any necessary actions with the both of you if the need arises.

Anything else you can send us, we will take

The next morning, the situation began to escalate as winds intensified, heightening the risk of wildfires.

Text messages show that Los Angeles City Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, serving as acting mayor while Mayor Bass was on an overseas trip in Ghana, contacted the LAFD to discuss the worsening weather.

Bass, who has faced criticism for being in Ghana despite warnings of critical fire weather, said she had been in constant contact with officials. Bass had been attending a presidential inauguration as part of a US delegation. She later told CNN affiliate KTTV the trip was a mistake, claiming Crowley failed to warn her in advance or carry out what she called normal preparations  a claim fire officials deny.

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I briefed him on our deployment in our preparation efforts. Also our needs for additional resources, LAFD Deputy Chief Jason Hing told Crowley in a text message, in reference Harris-Dawson.

Crowley also asked Hing to direct staff to reach out to the appropriate Council Offices to ensure that they are proper(ly) informed about our preparedness for the weather event.

The first fires ignited just under 90 minutes after Harris-Dawsons message. By 10:35 a.m., Crowley reported two brush fires breaking out in the city  one in the Pacific Palisades area and another in Hollywood.

Sending over staff now, Crowley texted Parks minutes later, recommending an upgrade to Level 2, acknowledging the which would demand for more resources.

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Parks then responded, EOC staff have some concerns now that we have two fires.

Parks wrote to Crowley, The EOC is in need of leadership. Pls advise who from your department can respond to the EOC asap, with Crowley responding that a chief was en route.

As the fires spread rapidly, Crowley reached out to neighboring counties for assistance by 12:02 p.m. Anything else you can send us, we will take it, she wrote to fire officials. Star(t)ing to (lose) home(s) and people trapped.

A crew of firefighters walk from a fire line during the Park Fire in Tehama County's Mill Creek area of California August 7, 2024. - Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images

A full-scale emergency

By the evening of January 7, the fire showed no signs of slowing, and plans were underway to escalate the response to the highest level of emergency management.

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At 7:19 p.m., Parks informed Crowley that emergency directors were recommending moving to Level 1, the highest level of emergency management, to be implemented the following morning.

The Eaton Fire, meanwhile, had just begun in nearby Altadena at around 6:18 p.m. local time.

As the wildfires tore through Southern California, firefighters faced a critical challenge: dry hydrants and plummeting water pressure hampering their efforts.

At 7:22 p.m., Los Angeles Department of Water and Power CEO Janisse Quinones warned Crowley, We will run out of water in about 2 hours unless access could be safely restored.

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Quinones explained that unprecedented demand  four times the normal usage for 15 straight hours  drained storage tanks, leaving 20% of hydrants in the Pacific Palisades dry.

Were fighting a wildfire with urban water systems, and that is really challenging, Quinones previously told CNN. A nearby reservoir under repair and power outages in Altadena further disrupted the water supply, prompting California Gov. Gavin Newsom to call for an independent investigation into the failures.

Newsom last month requested in a letter to Congress nearly $40 billion in wildfire recovery aid after the two fires burned more than 30,000 of acres of land and damaged more than 16,000 structures, according to estimates from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

CNNs Dalia Faheid contributed to this report.

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The fast-rising country rock band Red Clay Strays will play Detroits Fox Theatre on Oct. 4 to cap the groups biggest tour to date.

The Alabama sextet, which has been grabbing ample attention and acclaim for its soul-steeped, throwback sound, is embarking on the Get Right 2024 tour, which will kick off July 3 with a three-night home state stand and include a pair of shows at Colorados fabled Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The Fox Theatre stop will close out the run.

Tickets for Red Clay Strays tour stops, including Detroit, will go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday via Ticketmaster.

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A presale will run from 10 a.m. Tuesday through 10 p.m. Thursday. Full details are available at the bands website.

The tour comes in the wake of the 2024 sophomore album Made by These Moments, which followed the bands breakout hit, Wondering Why.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Red Clay Strays to close US tour with Detroit concert
CHATHAM  With more than 80 positions available, Pittsylvania County Schools hosted its yearly job fair Saturday at Chatham Middle School.

Principals and administrators from all 21 schools and programs chatted with prospective workers as a steady flow of people interested in education employment walked through the two-hour event.

Its been a brisk morning, Shari Dudley, executive administrative assistant for human resources, told the newspaper.

Dudley was stationed at the front and welcomed candidates as they came through the door, but also thanked them when they exited.

More people registered this year than in the past, Dudley said of the eighth year the system had put in the fair.

On average, about 40% of those who come to the event get a job offer.

We are excited to be planning for the 25-26 school year, Whitney Rinella, the director of humor resources, told the newspaper.

The jobs posted also represent current employees who are either resigning or retiring at the end of the school year.

Theres more of a need for workers in the elementary and special education area, she said.

I really think that nationwide there is a shortage of people going into education, Pittsylvania County Schools Superintendent Mark Jones told the Register & Bee when asked why elementary is a particular area of need. Thats something as a country we are going to need to tackle because we need good people teaching our children.

In this case, both Rinella and Jones believe it just happens that more elementary positions are currently open.

Jones said he was pleased with the really good turnout and noted many were good candidates.

He took time to speak with them and found that more often than not, the ones looking for jobs were graduates of schools in Pittsylvania County.

Also, graduates  or those planning to walk across the stage this spring  were also at the job fair, including Averett University students.

After years of struggling for recruitment, an issue that hit many schools after the pandemic, Jones believes theres light at the end of the tunnel.

Last year I felt it, he said. This year, it feels like maybe we are back where we need to be.

Steven Mayhew, the assistant superintendent for administration, shares the same optimism.

Weve had a great turnout, he said of Saturdays event. Im really excited because it seems like we are turning the corner from the pandemic time.

Rinella said that all positions are posted, and anyone interested  including those at the job fair  will need to fill out the official forms.

Today, they are sharing resumes with the principals, she explained, adding that it helped having representatives for all of the county schools there at one time.

The principals were there to answer questions for the job seekers.

Candidates who meet the criteria and requirements for the position will have their applications shared with individual principals who set up the interviews.

We would hope that it is a much more engaging process than looking online, Rinella said of Saturdays process.

In addition to teaching positions, Brandon Barts, the director of transportation, was recruiting for bus drivers.

This year marked the first time the transportation sector has been part of the job fair.

Were recruiting pretty well, Barts said of the 26 people this year whove come through the training process. As soon as they complete it, they are pretty much driving every day.

First, the workers must have a commercial drivers license and gain other endorsements.

After that, theres a Virginia Department of Education course as well a six-hour training session with a driver that goes through different scenarios.

Then, the potential bus driver goes to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles to take the final test.

Once they pass that, they are eligible to drive, Barts said, adding they still must pass a physical and blood alcohol test.

This is the first year Barts has been over the transportation division. He started teaching in 2008 and has doubled as a bus driver ever since.

My second question was, you have a CDL, do you think you could drive a school bus when we need you? he said of his first time at Pittsylvania County Schools.

There are about 10 teachers now doing double duty as long-term bus driver substitutes who do the same thing of shuttling students to school before jumping in front of a classroom to teach.

I always say we are looking for a firm 20, but we would gladly take 60, he said of the number of drivers needed.

Our best recruiter is a driver themselves, Barts explained.
By Alexandra Alper and Tim Reid

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - It was a scene some federal workers found upsetting and tone deaf.

Under government-wide orders to end work-from-home arrangements and return to the office, employees in the Office of Personnel Management were shocked to be greeted on Monday with bowls of candy, balloons, handshakes from managers and people snapping their pictures, said three people familiar with the scene.

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Many worked remotely for years, even before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Employees in the office, the government's human resources HQ, say they can do most of their work remotely.

It was the first day remote federal workers who live up to 50 miles (80 km) from Washington had to report for work under orders from President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk to drastically downsize the federal workforce.

Six weeks into Trump's second White House term, many were still reeling from the firings of their colleagues as part of the Republican president's drive to slash and reshape the federal bureaucracy.

The Office of Personnel Management is the very nerve center of the government downsizing effort.

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On Friday, OPM workers who took a government buyout returned their equipment and left the building for the last time. All the agency's recent hires have been fired and many other career staff have been sent termination notices.

OPM will not say how many in total have either been fired or taken buyouts but one source put the figure at 650 of the agencys total 3,300 staff.

Bowls of candy were laid out, party balloons flew and OPM workers took pictures and video of them being greeted in the main lobby by acting administrator Chuck Ezell and chief of Staff Amanda Scales, the people added.

Ezell has been a central figure in executing the plans of Musk's cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency.

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One worker, who declined to be identified for fear of retribution, said, "Being greeted with cameras in our faces and handshakes from the very people whose names have been on all of the memos and emails focused on undermining our agency and demeaning our work felt tone-deaf at best and mean-spirited at worst."

A second worker described the scene as jarring and a third described it as disgusting.

OPM was swiftly taken over by DOGE after Trump took office in January. It harbors the databases with the personal details of past and present government employees.

McLaurine Pinover, an OPM spokesperson, defended the welcome-back effort.

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"OPM wanted to ensure employees returning to work at OPM HQ were warmly welcomed back. OPM is committed to making the workplace an engine for public service excellence," Pinover told Reuters in an emailed statement.

Pinover pointed to a post by Ezell on Musk's X social media platform on Monday.

"Great to welcome employees back to the office this morning!" Ezell wrote. "Our federal workforce is the backbone of public service, and I'm grateful for all you do to serve the American people. Your dedication and commitment make a real difference every day."

At least 100,000 workers have taken buyouts or been fired after DOGE was created by Trump to gut federal staffing and spending.

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Civilian federal employee numbers stand at about 2.3 million. Thousands more termination notices have been issued in multiple government agencies in recent days.

(Reporting by Alexandra Alper and Tim Reid, Editing by Ross Colvin and Howard Goller)
The United States and Ukraine are making progress on a key mineral agreement that could strengthen long-term economic ties and pave the way for further security assistance, according to U.S. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick, who represents Pennsylvania and serves as the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Energy, the Environment, and Cyber, announced the development on social media following a conversation with Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelensky.

He described the discussion as "lengthy and productive" and expressed confidence that the deal would be finalized soon.

I just had a lengthy and productive one-on-one conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyys Chief-of-Staff, Andrii Yermak. We are 100% getting this train back on the tracks. This mineral deal will be signed in short order, which will lead to a strong long-term economic  Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick  (@RepBrianFitz) March 3, 2025

"This mineral deal will be signed in short order, which will lead to a strong long-term economic partnership between the United States and Ukraine, and which will ultimately and naturally lead to security assistance," Fitzpatrick wrote. He also indicated that European nations would be expected to contribute, adding that they would face mandates to step up their support.

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The specifics of the agreement remain unclear, but Ukraines vast reserves of lithium and other rare earth minerals have drawn increasing interest from Western nations. These resources are critical for modern technologies, including batteries, electronics, and defense applications.

Fitzpatrick's comment follows Zelensky's early departure from Washington on Feb. 28 without signing a U.S.-Ukraine mineral deal after a tense confrontation with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance at the White House.

In the days since, some U.S. officials and Republican lawmakers have escalated criticism of Zelensky, with some suggesting he should resign.

Trump told reporters on March 3 that a proposed economic deal between the U.S. and Ukraine remained on the table, but stressed that Zelensky needed to be more "appreciative" of U.S. support.

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When asked if the deal was off, Trump replied, "I dont think so," adding that it would be beneficial for the U.S. and criticizing former President Joe Biden for sending $300 billion to Ukraine without receiving much in return.

Trump also said that to restart negotiations, Zelensky must show more gratitude for U.S. assistance.

Read also: What the US-Ukraine mineral deal actually means

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Organizing the party and communicating its message further are two of the major goals for Michael Repay as he steps into the role of Lake County Democratic Party Chairman.

In Lake County, there has been a lot of energy among Democrats to get involved and even run for office, Repay said, so his focus will be to help those people get into positions that fit their strengths, whether thats running for office or helping the party in other ways.

Theres a firehose of Democratic energy in our county, and probably in the state and the country Id say, and leadership needs to take that and focus it in so that they can make a positive change, Repay said.

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On Saturday, the Lake County Democratic Party held its reorganization meeting and party members selected Repay, who ran unopposed, to replace former chairman Jim Wieser.

Lake County Board of Elections and Registration Director Michelle Fajman will remain vice chair, Dyer Democratic Precinct Committee secretary Taylor Gibson is secretary and Lake County Assessor LaTonya Spearman is treasurer.

Gibson beat incumbent secretary and Lake County Council President Christine Cid. Spearman beat Paul Aguilera and Brandon Dothager to be treasurer as the incumbent Peggy Holinga Katona did not seek reelection.

Repay, who is also a Lake County Commissioner, said with the county party reorganization, and upcoming reorganization at the district and state levels, Indiana Democrats have an eye on expanding Democratic reach in the Republican supermajority state.

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We are a blue county, and I think we can be bluer, Repay said. Theres Republicans that are elected in Lake County and I think we need to put up folks to run against them that are qualified and eager to participate.

A lot of people have been reaching out to the party to ask about joining political organizations or running for office, Repay said. As chairman, Repay said he will work toward engaging with people where they reach out, spanning from in-person discussion to social media messages, to help them engage with the party in the way theyd like to.

Repay said he embraces the idea of a big tent within the party, so he will work toward ensuring that everyone within the party has a space to discuss their thoughts and opinions on how to move forward.

As long as we are all moving in the same direction and we can play off of each others strengths and work towards a common goal then we can do it, Repay said. What we need to do is find the common ground and work towards the common ground. If people want to be a little bit more one way or the other, then theyre free to do that. Its a big tent. Its a big party.

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Through redistricting, Republicans in Indiana have gerrymandered, or shifted the political boundaries to favor their party, Repay said. Over the years, that has decreased the number of Lake County Democrats in the statehouse, he said.

Its not good government when you marginalize voters by packing different both ethnic and political groups into certain districts and then splitting up a solid basis of interests into multiple districts just so you can have (a supermajority), Repay said.

Ahead of 2026, Repay said the party will focus on organizing volunteers and structures to help more Democrats win seats in the state legislature. Closer to the election, Repay said the party will focus on boots on the ground efforts to knock on doors and engage all voters in districts with Republican legislators at the same time.

In the current legislative session, Republicans are unconcerned about public schools, local government, and funding police and fire service, Repay said. In two years, area Republican legislators will have to explain to voters their positions on those matters, he said.

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Meanwhile, Repay said the Democratic Party will be preparing to talk to those same voters to present counterpoints.

There will be no free lunch for Republicans in Lake County in 2026, Repay said. If they expect to win those districts, they are going to have to communicate their message to the residents in the district and absolutely the Democratic Party is going to communicate our message to those people in those districts.

Fajman said Repay will bring a new perspective as the party moves forward.

Hes going to bring a lot to the table in terms of media and different ways for the party to be seen, Fajman said. Im excited to see him work in this capacity.

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Lake County Republican Chairman Randy Niemeyer said he and Repay have worked well together in recent years as Niemeyer is a councilman and Repay is a commissioner. They will work diligently on the process of elections and ensure they serve the people of Lake County, Niemeyer said.

Wieser said Repay was the perfect person to be the next chairman. After Saturdays meeting, Wieser said he, Repay and Fajman talked about election board matters, upcoming caucuses in Gary and Hobart that Repay will run, and Repay meeting with city and town chairmen.

The fact that Repay ran unopposed speaks volumes of the confidence the party has in him, Wieser said.

Hell take the organization to another level, Wieser said. He has all the right relationships with people to run it.

akukulka@chicagotribune.com
Relatives of the victims of the Hamas massacre of October 7, 2023, have clashed with security guards in the Israeli parliament, the Jerusalem Post reported on Monday.

There were at least two injuries, the report said. A report by the newspaper Haaretz stated that a man whose son was murdered by terrorists at a music festival lost consciousness during the scuffle.

Several Israeli media outlets reported that the security guards had denied dozens of victims' relatives access to a visitor's gallery. Subsequently, the relatives attempted to get past the guards at a staircase, after which they were forcibly pushed back.

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Media footage showed the brawls as well as a man lying motionless on the staircase.

The families of the victims are demanding a state commission of inquiry into the events of October 7, 2023. This was to be discussed during a special session in the parliament, the Knesset. According to media reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was also present.

The relatives were eventually allowed onto the gallery, media reports said. Several turned their backs on Netanyahu in protest. The prime minister is opposed to the establishment of an inquiry commission.

Critics accuse him of failing to take personal responsibility for the political and military failures during the massacre led by the Palestinian militant organization Hamas, in order not to jeopardize his power.
Conservative legislators are increasingly speaking out against the Supreme Courts landmark 2015 ruling on same-sex marriage equality.

Idaho legislators began the trend in January when the state House and Senate passed a resolution calling on the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision -- which the court cannot do unless presented with a case on the issue. Some Republican lawmakers in at least four other states like Michigan, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota have followed suit with calls to the Supreme Court.

In North Dakota, the resolution passed the state House with a vote of 52-40 and is headed to the Senate. In South Dakota, the states House Judiciary Committee sent the proposal on the 41st Legislative Day deferring the bill to the final day of a legislative session, when it will no longer be considered, and effectively killing the bill.

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In Montana and Michigan, the bills have yet to face legislative scrutiny.

Resolutions have no legal authority and are not binding law, but instead allow legislative bodies to express their collective opinions.

The resolutions in four other states echo similar sentiments about the merits of the Courts Obergefell v. Hodges decision, which established the right to same-sex marriage under the equal protection clause and the due process clause of the 14th Amendment.

PHOTO: Rep. Josh Schriver on the floor of the Michigan House of Representatives, at the Michigan Capitol, in Lansing, Mich., on Oct. 10, 2023. (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP)

Some legislators behind the resolutions argue that the legality of gay marriage should be left to states to decide, while others argue that marriage should be reserved for one man and one woman.

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LGBTQ advocates and allies have criticized the efforts, arguing that the majority of Americans approve of same-sex marriage and say the efforts undermine personal freedoms.

A 2024 Gallup poll found that 69% of Americans continue to believe that marriage between same-sex couples should be legal, and 64% say gay or lesbian relations are morally acceptable.

PHOTO: Jim Obergefell, the named plaintiff in the Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court case that legalized same sex marriage nationwide, on the step of the Texas Capitol during a rally in Austin, Texas. (Eric Gay/AP)

In Michigan, state Rep. Josh Schriver unveiled his own anti-gay marriage resolution on Feb. 25, arguing that restrictions on gay marriage are important to preserve and grow our human race, he said at a press conference announcing the resolution.

Michigan Christians follow Christ's definition of marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman, an institution established to glorify God and produce children, said Schriver.

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MORE: Ballot initiatives protecting marriage equality advancing in some states

In a press release, he added: "The new resolution urges the preservation of the sanctity of marriage and constitutional protections that ensure freedom of conscience for all Michigan residents.

Local Democratic leaders denounced the resolution, arguing that it discriminates against the rights of LGBTQ Americans and distracts from more pressing issues facing Michigan residents.

At a time when Michiganders are looking to their leaders to address pressing issues like lowering costs and protecting our economy, House Republicans are choosing to focus on undermining the personal freedoms of Michigan residents, state Rep. Mike McFall said.

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This resolution is not only a blatant attempt to roll back the clock on civil rights, but it is also out of step with the values and priorities of our state.

The Michigan resolution has been referred to the Committee on Government Operations and has not yet been put to a vote.

The handful of resolutions come after Associate Justice Clarence Thomas expressed interest in revisiting the Obergefell decision in his concurring opinion on the Supreme Court's landmark 2022 decision on the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case that overturned the federal right to abortion.

He wrote: "In future cases, we should reconsider all of this courts substantive due process precedents, such as Obergefell. Because any substantive due process decision is 'demonstrably erroneous,' we have a duty to 'correct the error' established in those precedents, Thomas said.

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Thomas had issued a dissenting opinion in 2015 against same-sex marriage equality.

More than two dozen states have some kind of restriction on same-sex marriage that could be triggered if the Supreme Court one day overturns its 2015 decision, according to legislative tracking group Movement Advancement Project. This is because marriage equality has not yet been codified and enshrined into law nationwide.

However, the Respect for Marriage Law signed by former President Joe Biden in 2022 guarantees the federal recognition of same-sex and interracial marriages in the event of an overturned Supreme Court decision.

It requires all states to recognize legally certified marriages, even if they were done in a state where it is later banned or done in another state entirely.

Some Republican lawmakers increase calls against gay marriage SCOTUS ruling originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
State reps. Adam Bird (left) and Josh Williams (right) are introducing a bill that would require public and private Ohio schools to have a minimum of 1,054 instructional hours per school year for grades 7 to 12. Ohio law currently requires a minimum of 1,001 hours. (Photo by Megan Henry, Ohio Capital Journal).

Republican lawmakers want to make Ohios school year longer by adding 53 hours of instructional time.

State reps. Adam Bird, R-New Richmond, and Josh Williams, R-Sylvania, are introducing a bill that would require Ohio schools to have a minimum of 1,054 instructional hours per school year for grades 7 to 12. Ohio law currently requires a minimum of 1,001 hours.

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Time in front of a teacher matters, Bird said. The more time students spend meaningful learning, the better theyre going to perform academically, the better that theyre going to perform socially, the better that theyre going to bring the soft skills to their employment later on in life, Bird said during a press conference.

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The bill does not tell schools how they would have to add the additional hours, leaving it up to each school or district to decide if they would increase the school day or lengthen the school year.

Were not going to tell school districts how to comply, Williams said during the press conference. Simply extending the school day a little bit more, maybe one less field trip may be able to add to that instructional time or one less professional development day may be able to accomplish some of those hours.

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Instructional time refers to time in the classroom and does not include recess and lunch. Bird said the current laws 1,001 hour requirement is equivalent to about 160 school days and increasing the hours to 1,054 would be equal to about 180 school days.

The intent of the bill is not to allow further slippage in the wrong direction, Bird said.

Ohio is lagging behind other states and countries when it comes to required instructional time in the classroom, Bird said. Kentucky requires 1,062 hours of instructional time in their school year, Michigan requires 1,098 hours, Wisconsin requires 1,050 and Texas requires 1,260 hours. South Korea requires 1,300 hours, he said.

Its really important for Ohio to remain competitive on the world stage, Bird said. Were trying to attract the Intels of the world. We gotta be ready to produce a workforce.

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Students learning loss during COVID-19 is another reason for the bill, the lawmakers said.

The student regression that occurred during COVID has never been made up, Bird said, who was a middle school principal during the pandemic. Students have never yet recovered from that and our students have not made up for that decline.

A new law taking effect in April will require school districts to have a religious release time policy in place for the school day.

We continue to move down this path of allowing additional release time, not only for that, but for 4-H experiences and a wide variety of things that are valid, whether its field trips, college visits, were allowing all of those things to happen, and we continue to have an issue when it comes to truancy, habitual chronic absenteeism in schools, Bird said.

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Ohios chronic absenteeism rate, defined as missing 10% of the school year, was 25.6% for the 2023-2024 school year, according to the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce.

If a student is missing 10% of the school year  and thats a problem  well, Id rather them miss 10% of 180 days than miss 10% of 160 days, Bird said.

He expects parents will be on board with this bill.

They want their child to get the best education that they can get, Bird said. Parents understand that time in school is imperative to a student receiving the best education that they can get.

Neither lawmaker knew how many Ohio school districts are already offering 1,054 hours of instructional time.

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Ohio teacher unions have concerns with the bill.

Ohio Education Association is concerned by any proposal to create another large unfunded mandate on Ohios public schools, especially when many Ohio districts face a large decrease in state funding in the state budget, said OEA President Scott DiMauro.

Adding hours does not necessarily mean more instructional time or better outcomes, said Melissa Cropper, president of the Ohio Federation of Teachers.

Instead of arbitrarily adding time, the state needs to focus on eliminating unnecessary work that detracts from student instructional time and does nothing to improve student outcomes, she said.

Follow Capital Journal Reporter Megan Henry on Bluesky.

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A new study shows that the number of lions in Uganda is dwindling, and researchers say action needs to be taken soon to help preserve their population.

What's happening?

For the study, published in the Global Ecology and Conservation journal, researchers conducted surveys into the African nation's large-carnivore populations, particularly lions, leopards, and hyenas. The research marked the first such surveys in nearly 20 years.

When it came to lions, the data was troubling. Their population numbers were described as "precariously low" in Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks, two of the three areas where lions are typically found in Uganda.

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Murchison Falls National Park has seen its lion population remain steady at about 240, making it the largest such population in Uganda, but the other parks have seen their numbers fall by about 50%.

There are several possible reasons for this troubling decline, researchers say. Some farmers have been known to poison lion prides in an attempt to save their cattle. Poaching remains a problem nationwide, and there is less natural habitat for lions to survive as more land becomes developed.

The study showed that leopard and hyena populations are also decreasing, but at a much lower rate. Hyenas, in particular, were found in population densities eight to 40 times higher than lions.

"Some of the high hyena numbers we see in our study could be due to the decline of lions, but it's just one hypothesis," study author Alex Braczkowski told Mongabay. "Hyenas may be more resilient than lions to snaring, [and] due to clan sizes, they can also eat larger things, especially when it comes to buffalos."

Why is this important?

The potential loss of any species is troubling and has had major impacts on ecosystems.

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Lions are also an important part of the Ugandan economy. Tourists flock to the country, in particular Queen Elizabeth National Park, to see the majestic beasts. It's estimated that each lion in that national park contributes $14,000 annually to the economy.

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"This is a sighting that one will never forget as long as they live," study author Alex Braczkowski told Mongabay. "Eight lions wedged in a euphorbia tree is simply incredible!"

What's being done about lion populations?

The researchers in this study argue that stronger policies need to be put in place to preserve these predators' habitats, and to limit the damage humans do to these species.

There are examples of this working. In India, for example, new policies have led to a reported 86% reduction in rhinoceros poaching. Indonesia has also cracked down on poachers, with the leader of one such murderous group being sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
A 17-year veteran of the St. Paul Police Department died this past weekend from her injuries sustained in an assault in 2013.

Retired officer Felicia Reilly, 67, died on Saturday, the police department said in a Facebook post.

"Its with great sadness that we share the passing of retired Saint Paul Police Officer Felicia Reilly, who passed away Saturday, March 1, 2025," the post reads.

"Those who knew Felicia remember her as compassionate, devoted, and an inspiration to many."

Felicia Reilly.St. Paul Police Department

The St. Paul Police Retirement Association (SPPRA) said in its roll call Reilly served the department form 1996-2013, confirming Reilly had died "from injuries she received in the line of duty."

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Reilly suffered her injuries in March 2010, when she responded to a 911 hang-up call at the home of Thomas Swenson on the 1600 block of Birmingham Street. His mother told police he was threatening others and had been drinking after he stopped taking his bipolar disorder medication.

Reilly's orders to Swenson were ignored and Swenson assaulted the officer, reportedly hitting her in the back of the head several times. She was left with serious injuries, including double vision, migraines and memory loss.

Swenson's parents claimed during the trial that Reilly's injuries happened after she tripped over furniture.

However, Swenson was found guilty by a Ramsey County jury of 1st-degree assault and 4th-degree assault on a police officer and obstructing the legal process. He was sentenced to eight-and-a-half-years in prison.
The United States is working on a plan to potentially ease sanctions against Russia as part of Donald Trump's efforts to renew ties with Moscow and end the war in Ukraine.

Source: Reuters, citing a US official and another person familiar with the matter, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The White House has asked the State Department and the Treasury Department to draw up a list of sanctions that could be eased. The sources said the list had been requested for discussion by US officials and the Russian side as part of broader negotiations by the US administration to improve diplomatic and economic relations.

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The sanctions agencies are now preparing proposals on the lifting of sanctions from certain legal entities and individuals, including some Russian oligarchs, Reuters sources said.

The fact that the White House specifically requested this list in recent days underscores the willingness of Trump and his advisers to ease Russian sanctions as part of a potential deal with Moscow.

It is unclear exactly what Washington might demand from Russia in exchange for sanctions relief.

US sources say the White House asked State and Treasury Department officials to draw up the possible sanctions relief plan before Trump extended the state of emergency last week over the situation in Ukraine.

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The state of emergency imposes sanctions on certain assets and individuals involved in Russia's war. The measures, introduced by the Obama administration, have been in place since March 2014, when Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea.

Background:

In January, Trump threatened to increase sanctions against Russia if Putin was unwilling to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. But recently, Trump administration officials have openly acknowledged the possibility of sanctions against Moscow being eased.

Earlier, Bloomberg reported that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had assured European allies that the US would maintain sanctions against Russia at least until an agreement is reached to end the Russo-Ukrainian war.

In an interview with Bloomberg Television on 20 February, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said economic restrictions on Russia could be relaxed based on the Kremlins willingness to negotiate.

Trump told reporters on 26 February that Russian sanctions could be eased "at some point".

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More than 150 people in West Texas are currently infected with measles, a highly contagious illness that is avoidable when enough people get the measles vaccine. People are also infected in other states, including New Mexico, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and California.

Vaccination rates in the United States are dropping, which means fewer and fewer people are getting life-saving vaccines and the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases, like measles, are on the rise.

Before the measles vaccine was introduced, which was in the early 1960s, 2 1/2 million people died of measles every year in the world ... and because weve had a vaccine for so many decades, that number has gone way down. In 2023 ... there were just over 100,000 people who died from measles across the globe, but most of those people were people who either lived in a space where they didnt have access to vaccines, or they were other people who were not vaccinated, said Dr. Elizabeth Meade, a pediatrician in Seattle and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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Measles is most dangerous for children, and particularly children under 5 years old, Meade added. In Texas, an unvaccinated school-aged child died of measles last week.

Measles can also be serious in adults, too. There has now been a possible measles death in an unvaccinated adult in New Mexico. The cause of death is yet to be determined, but the patient tested positive for measles after they died.

At first, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  now the secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services  seemed to downplay the measles outbreak, experts say, but has since changed his tune.

On Sunday, RFK Jr. wrote a Fox News op-ed in which he stated the risks of measles, particularly for unvaccinated people, and the importance of vaccination for individual protection and community protection. This op-ed was a complete flip from his anti-vaccine past. Previously, he has claimed that vaccines cause autism (which has not been proven), and his nonprofit, the Children Health Defense, is said to have played a big role in stirring up measles vaccine hesitancy in Samoa, which resulted in a deadly outbreak.

RFK has spent his career trying to weaponize the real anxiety some parents feel about giving their children vaccines to spread disinformation campaigns, so this is a welcome shift in his public health messaging, said Dr. Anita Patel, a pediatric critical care doctor in Washington, D.C.

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Experts are encouraged by this messaging and hope it can help quell MMR vaccine hesitancy.

I was pleasantly surprised. I, frankly, wouldnt have expected to see that, but Im glad he did, said Dr. Jennifer Nuzzo, a professor of epidemiology and the director of the Pandemic Center at Brown University School of Public Health in Rhode Island.

Notably, in his op-ed, RFK Jr. wrote, The decision to vaccinate is a personal one.

I know some people have criticized that [his op-ed] doesnt directly say, Go out and get vaccinated, but I think it was more than I could have hoped for, really. Its quite clear it affirms that MMR vaccines are critical for protecting not only ourselves, but our broader community, and Id like to see more of that, said Nuzzo.

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For some people, the decision to get vaccinated has to do with protecting the vulnerable people in their community, and, for others, its to protect themselves, said Nuzzo. But either way, if RFK Jr.s statement leads to more vaccinations, its a win.

RFK Jr.s new op-ed is a promising change in public health messaging, but doesnt erase his decades of vaccine hesitancy.

This statement is a huge shift from RFK Jr.s messaging as recently as last week at a Cabinet meeting, when he seemed to downplay the severity and called the measles outbreak normal,said both Meade and Patel.

At the time, He either didnt know or was purposely manipulating the situation ... and to have the leader of our health care system not either know what is the reality or who is actively lying about it is concerning  and not just concerning, its terrifying, said Patel.

This new messaging, while promising, didnt come fast enough, Patel said.

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For most of us in the health care and public health space, this complete 180 in his messaging feels like a weak attempt to rescue a situation that has already spiraled out of control, added Patel.

The time for this messaging was when the outbreak began. The time for this messaging was on the day we lost a child to this vaccine-preventable disease rather than weak arguments that this current measles outbreak is normal. The time for this messaging was before the Childrens Health Defense tried to push natural immunity to measles as superior to vaccine-induced immunity, Patel said.

Heres what still worries medical experts.

Vaccine hesitancy, increasing measles spread and questionable decisions from the current administration concern medical professionals. Below, they share their thoughts on the current measles outbreak in Texas.

Measles is known as a herald infection because its the first disease that shows up when vaccination rates are low.

Measles is what experts call a herald infection, because typically, when we see an outbreak of measles, that heralds the fact that vaccine rates have dropped enough that were starting to see these, Meade said.

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And then we may start to see other things, like polio, like mumps, other things that we havent seen in this country for quite some time, added Meade.

Nuzzo noted that a school in Texas reported a rubella case, which is pertinent because the measles vaccine, which is known as the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine also prevents rubella infections.

The reason that measles shows up first is because its highly contagious, said Meade. Its more contagious than both COVID and the flu. Its one of the most contagious illnesses that we see, she said.

Just to put things in perspective for people, if someone has measles and they cough or sneeze in a room, and then they leave the room, and you walk into the room two hours later, you can become infected with measles, explained Meade.

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Pediatricians across the country have a very deep understanding of infectious diseases and how something like measles can actually really herald a bigger problem, said Meade.

Lots of measles patients in Texas are hospitalized, which is worrisome.

We have a lot of people in the hospital, and I have to say that is also deeply concerning, one because measles is very tough for hospitals because of the isolation thats required [since] its such a contagious disease, [and] theres so many vulnerable people in hospitals, said Nuzzo.

According to data from the Texas Health and Human Services department, 23 of 198 people are currently hospitalized.

RFK Jr. suggested in last weeks cabinet meeting that people are in the hospital for quarantine and isolation, which isnt true, Nuzzo noted. Theyre in the hospital because theyre sick.

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So, just to say that, yes, we have had a death, but we also have a lot of people in the hospital, and that means that they are ill enough to be in the hospital, Nuzzo said.

"We are seeing comments that this is 'normal,' or it's expected, and a death of a child from measles in the United States should never be expected because we have a way to prevent this," said Dr. Elizabeth Meade. Jan Sonnenmair via Getty Images

They worry this outbreak could impact the countrys ability to maintain our measles elimination status.

We declared measles eliminated, which is you drive down the incidence to near zero, but not necessarily zero, like 25 years ago, said Nuzzo.

Since then, the U.S. has been able to maintain its measles elimination status, but there was a large measles outbreak in New York in 2019 where the U.S. just barely missed losing our measles elimination status, so weve retained it. Nuzzo said.

But when we have outbreaks that spiral out of control that could imperil our measles elimination status ... I think [it] has consequences, Nuzzo noted. It has huge psychological consequences in terms of what kind of country we are and how committed to public health we are. That would put us on par with some of the more resource-constrained settings in the world.

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So, I think it is something that we have to take quite seriously in terms of our stature, she said.

If youre worried about your health or your loved ones health, there are precautions you can take.

With measles cases cropping up throughout the country, its natural to be worried. But if youre a fully vaccinated individual [and] you are not immunocompromised, you should have no reason to be scared, said Patel.

If you arent sure if youve had your measles vaccine, you can talk to your doctor about getting your titers drawn, which is a blood test that shows the level of antibodies in your body.

If you havent been vaccinated or havent had both doses of the shot, Meade said your best bet is to get the MMR vaccine.

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The first MMR dose is generally given to babies at 12 months, but if you are worried about your childs exposure, talk to your doctor about getting them the vaccine early.

We do this for kids who have to travel out of the country to places that have endemic measles, and were certainly doing it for children who are living near the epicenters of the current outbreaks that were seeing, Meade said. Generally, this is done for babies who are at least 6 months old.

For parents of children who are over 12 months and have already had one dose but havent yet gotten that second dose, which is typically given between age 4 and 6, you absolutely can get that second dose early, Meade noted.

As long as its been at least 28 days since the first dose, youre eligible for the second shot.

And I think thats important for parents to know. Im planning to get all of my children their second dose early now, because we are seeing [measles] in Seattle, and thats the absolute best way that I have to protect them, Meade said.

Related...
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.  an anti-vaccine conspiracy theorist  appeared to strike a drastically different tone in a new Fox News op-ed published Sunday in which he advocated for the MMR vaccine amid a growing measles outbreak in Texas.

The op-ed, titled Measles Outbreak Is A Call To Action For All Of Us, carried the subheadline: MMR Vaccine Is Crucial To Avoiding Potentially Deadly Disease.

In the piece, Kennedy said he is deeply concerned about the outbreak in the South Plains region thats claimed the life of a school-aged child, the first measles-related fatality in America for more than a decade.

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Kennedy wrote about the risks of measles especially to unvaccinated individuals and acknowledged the previous fatality rate of 1 in 1,205 cases before the introduction of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine in the 1960s.

Vaccines must be readily accessible for all those who want them, said the yearslong vaccine skeptic, adding that: Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

But Kennedy also said the decision to vaccinate remains a personal one and stopped short of urging people to receive them.

The op-ed split opinion on social media, following as it did years of Kennedys promotion of debunked vaccine misinformation.

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Only last week, Kennedy downplayed the outbreak in Texas as not unusual.

Public health experts warned last year how deadly epidemics  including of measles  could surge in the United States again if Kennedy was confirmed as Americas top health official given his past debunked takes on shots.

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In the first few months of the year, measles spread like wildfire among a largely unvaccinated population, the number of cases quickly outpacing the total for the entire previous year. Then the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sent a strike team, spending long days assisting local efforts to vaccinate, help patients isolate, and trace their contacts. The community in question wasnt opposed to vaccines; they simply hadnt had steady access to health care, and they gladly rolled up their sleeves. The outbreak was controlled, and the worst was avoided.

That was last year, in Chicago. Now a similar situation is unfolding in West Texas. The population is differentthis time, its spreading largely among rural Mennonite communities; then, it was clustered around an urban immigrant shelterbut the same underlying issues of access persist.

And this year, the CDC isnt sending a team.

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On Thursday afternoon, amid rapid-fire news of the Trump administrations firings and funding cuts to federal agencies, the CDC finally posted a short online statement about the Texas outbreak. The CDC is in close communication with state health officials and is offering technical assistance, laboratory support, vaccines, and medications, the statement says, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new health secretary and longtime anti-vaccine activist, has expressed a willingness to support local efforts. A CDC official sent me a link to this statement in response to a list of questions Id sent the agency.

The statement suggested a terrifyingly laid-back approach to combating deadly disease outbreaks. While RFK Jr. changed his tone on Friday, calling the measles outbreak a top priority, little changed in the administrations approach. And with measles vaccination rates nationwide now hovering perilously close to or even below the recommended 95 percent threshold, whats happening in Texas could conceivably happen anywhere.





Last week, an unvaccinated school-age child became the first person in the United States to die of measles in a decade. Its possible that more deaths may follow. As of Friday, there were 146 cases identified in Texas in the current outbreak, with 20 hospitalizations, and nine cases reported in New Mexico.

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The vast majority of cases have been among unvaccinated children and teens, many of whom are Mennonite. But there isnt an ideological push among Mennonites against vaccines. The church isnt the reason that theyre not vaccinated, Lara Anton, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of State Health Services, told AP in mid-February. In fact, amid news of the outbreak, people who previously hadnt vaccinated their kids are rushing to do so now.

Rather, the community hasnt had regular access to health careand in this area of West Texas, its a common story. Medical care can be an hours drive or more away. There are immense structural and logistical barriers to reaching people at risk: Only 90 percent of Texans are vaccinatedbelow the 95 percent threshold recommended for community immunity (also called herd immunity).

Even one dose of the combined measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR, vaccinewhich is usually given at one year of age but can be administered as early as six monthsis 93 percent effective at preventing measles cases. Two doses are 97 percent effective. That is a stunning achievement against a dangerous and unusually contagious disease, which can be debilitating even when it doesnt kill: One in five unvaccinated people who contract measles wind up hospitalized. It also causes immune amnesia, where your body loses its immune responses to all previous pathogens, and can lead to fatal brain swelling years later. But to really stop this disease in its tracksto protect some people who cant be vaccinated for health reasons and to make up for that 3 percent of the time that it manages to evade a vaccinated persons immune systemoverall vaccination rates need to be high.

We have the means to prevent this. We have a very, very effective vaccine, Neil Maniar, professor of public health practice at Northeastern University, told me. This is a critical moment to really improve vaccination rates in areas where we are below that 95 percent threshold. You want to make sure that you have enough of the population vaccinated that theres really nowhere for the disease to go.

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The goal for how many people need to be vaccinated to stop circulation depends on the diseasehow contagious it is, how its transmitted, how long people are sick, and how many people theyre likely to encounter. Measles is, by all accounts, a formidable foe. It can linger in the air and on surfaces for up to two hourswhich means you might step into an elevator long after a patient leaves it and still get sick. Every person with measles can infect 12 to 18 unvaccinated people, Maniar said. That is a pretty remarkable number. That means the vaccination rate needs to be similarly highwhich means almost everyone in the country needs to be reached, a daunting logistical feat that until now has been carried out quietly but effectively.

In politics, if you got two-thirds of people agreeing with something, thats a landslide, said Richard Pan, a pediatrician and former state senator in California who helped usher in a new law limiting exemptions to vaccines. We need to get to 95 percent to do community immunity. Weve got to get more than a landslide. Even though vaccines continue to enjoy overwhelming popularity, there has been growing ideological opposition, led by Kennedy. But narrowing religious or personal exemption loopholes to vaccine requirements can help, Pan said.

Falling below 95 percent puts everyone at risk. But aiming even higher than 95 percent at the state level could help boost protection in local areas with lower rates, Pan said. Getting above 95 percent is not impossible. Were doing it in California for the most part.





But this cant happen without access to vaccines. And existing gaps in access may only worsen as the Trump administration questions vaccines in general, fires federal officials, and limits communications. We cant ignore whats going on at the federal level in terms of public health, Maniar said.

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Kennedy has already halted a seasonal flu vaccine campaign, saying he wants to focus on informed consent instead. Thats an anti-vax talking point that would require health workers to list every adverse event in clinical trialseven unrelated ones, like accidentsbefore administering a vaccine. As soon as he took office, Kennedy said hed investigate the childhood vaccine schedule, including the MMR vaccine: Nothing is going to be off limits. Meetings for independent advisers on vaccines for the CDC and the Food and Drug Administration have also been halted, and Kennedy has signaled he could do away with the system for processing legal claims over vaccine side effects, which would effectively take vaccines off the market.

Vaccination can be disrupted merely by cutting funding for state and local programs, Maniar said. You can disrupt it by laying off the workforce that is responsible for overseeing these types of programs. You can disrupt it by limiting communication. And you can disrupt it just by questioning the validity of the science behind this.

Pan has tangled with RFK Jr. in the past. When Pan was leading legislation on vaccine exemptions, Kennedy attempted to stop it. He has not shown a strong record of honesty, Pan said. You cant trust him. After calling vaccines a holocaust, for instance, Kennedy apologized and vowed not to do it again. He has continued to use the term, though, Pan said. Kennedy has long called health agencies like the CDC and FDA corrupt and beholden to Big Pharma, but when challenged to actually provide any proof that the vaccine  causes harm, he was unable to do so, Pan said.

All of this is on top of the Trump administrations effort to dismantle the government workforce and slash science funding. We have significant cutbacks in the public health infrastructure at the federal level. We have pauses taking place. We have massive layoffs that have taken place, Maniar said. All of this disruption inevitably spills into states and communities, making it even more difficult to deliver vaccines and control outbreaks. Already, emergency-response capabilities are being hampered. And I think were going to see that continue, unless something is done very quickly to restore public health infrastructure, Maniar said. Were cutting back at a time where we should really be building out.





On Wednesday, RFK Jr. spoke about the Texas measles outbreak. Its not unusualwe have measles outbreaks every year, he said. Its a callous statement, horrifying given the death of a child. But hes right. After coming incredibly close to eliminating measles from the U.S., and making progress to eradicate it around the globe, weve seen a resurgence in recent years, in part because of Kennedy and other prominent anti-vaxxers.

Weve been cutting it close, Pan said. In 2019, as outbreaks mounted, measles almost returned to endemic status, which means a disease regularly circulates in an area rather than being introduced from the outside. In 2024, public health efforts again managed to halt the emergency. What experts really fear, though, is that measles could come back, a good a quarter-century after it was vanquished, Pan said. Measles may become endemic in the United States.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), said the measles outbreak in west Texas is a call to action as he encouraged parents to consider whether to get their children vaccinated.

Kennedy, a longtime vaccine skeptic, said the decision to vaccinate is personal but defended the efficacy of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, saying it is crucial to avoiding potentially deadly disease.

All parents should consult with their healthcare providers to understand their options to get the MMR vaccine, Kennedy wrote in an op-ed published on Fox News Digital.

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The decision to vaccinate is a personal one, he continued. Vaccines not only protect individual children from measles, but also contribute to community immunity, protecting those who are unable to be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Kennedy, in the op-ed, said health care providers, community leaders, and policymakers have a shared responsibility to protect public health, adding, This includes ensuring that accurate information about vaccine safety and efficacy is disseminated.

We must engage with communities to understand their concerns, provide culturally competent education, and make vaccines readily accessible for all those who want them, he added.

Kennedy outlined data showing an apparent inverse connection between the vaccine and risk of infection: He noted that, of the 146 cases of measles, 79 are in unvaccinated individuals, 62 are in individuals with unknown vaccination statuses, and five are in vaccinated individuals.

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He added: Good nutrition remains a best defense against most chronic and infectious illnesses.

The measles outbreak in Texas is a call to action for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to public health, he said. Under my leadership, HHS is and will always be committed to radical transparency to regain the publics trust in its health agencies.

Nearly 150 measles cases have been confirmed in west Texas, where a child this past week became the first person to die of measles in the U.S. since 2015.

The outbreak has spread in an area with a large community of Mennonites, many of whom reject conventional medicine such as vaccines, though the church itself does not hold an anti-vaccine stance. It also comes amid a broader rise in vaccine skepticism.

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The MMR vaccine is required for most children in the U.S. entering kindergarten in public schools, but Texas allows children to get exemptions from the requirement for religious or other conscience-related reasons. As a result, the percentage of children with exemptions in Texas has risen from 0.76 percent in 2014 to 2.32 percent in 2024, The Associated Press reported, citing state data.

In Gaines County, nearly 14 percent of schoolchildren opted out of at least one required vaccine in the 2023-24 school year, according to the AP. One school district was found to have a K-12 vaccine exemption rate of 47.95 percent.

The New York Post recently called on Kennedy to go to Texas to advocate for the vaccine, as the outbreak continued to grow.

Go to Texas, Mr. Secretary, and preach the truth as only a convert can: This vaccine is safe, and getting children jabbed is an act of love, the Post wrote to Kennedy. Thats why all your children are vaccinated, despite your well-known concerns.

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Such a proclamation, the Post argued, would make national news given Kennedys history of vaccine skepticism, and would surely convince others elsewhere  and so quietly save lives.

The Post is owned by billionaire media mogul Rupert Murdoch, who also owns The Wall Street Journal, another publication that has called on Kennedy to change his views on vaccines.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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PROVIDENCE  Is it possible for Rhode Island to add up all the money thats been spent in recent years to respond to the impacts of climate change and bill fossil fuel companies for payment?

Its a question state lawmakers are asking in the form of legislation that would create a Climate Superfund for Rhode Island.

Under the bill introduced by Rep. Jennifer Boylan and Sen. Linda Ujifusa, the state would calculate how much has been spent in Rhode Island on the impacts of climate change since 2009, divide up those costs among the fossil fuel companies responsible for the bulk of planet-warming emissions, and seek payments from them.

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The idea behind the measure is to hold polluters accountable for the impacts theyve caused and take the burden off taxpayers who have had to bear, among other things, the costs to repair roads washed away by more powerful coastal storms and to expand stormwater systems to handle more frequent downpours.

This bill seeks to make polluters pay for the damage that they have caused, Boylan, a Barrington Democrat, said at a House committee hearing Thursday.

In Rhode Island, climate change is not a distant threat, she continued. It's happening right now. We see it with every record rainfall, every coastal storm, every heat wave, every drought, every forest fire. Our state is feeling the impacts and with it the costs, skyrocketing insurance premiums, increased demand for disaster and flood response and mounting infrastructure repair bills.

An aerial view of the industrial waterfront on the Providence River shows many fossil fuel tanks along the shore.

Long-standing efforts to make fossil fuel companies pay for climate emissions

Governments have tried other ways to force fossil fuel companies to pay for the costs of climate change. In 2018, Rhode Island became the first state to take companies such as ExxonMobil and Chevron to court seeking recompense.

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But that case and others like it are still making their way through the judicial system. In the meantime, other states are trying a different way to hold the largest oil and gas companies responsible for damage caused by extreme weather tied to the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

The legislation introduced by Boyland and Ujifusa mimics statutes that have already been enacted in New York and Vermont and are modeled on the federal Superfund program that requires companies to pay for the cleanup of toxic waste.

But while Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland and California are also considering similar measures, legal challenges have already been mounted against the laws in Vermont and New York.

The lawsuits are coming not just from industry associations that say the statutes are preempted by federal law but also from a host of Republican-led states arguing that the payments assigned to fossil fuel companies will raise costs for everyone.

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The American Petroleum Institute raised concerns about constitutionality and basic fairness in its letter opposing the Rhode Island legislation.

It is patently unfair to retroactively punish companies with punitive fees for producing fuels that were and remain legal, Michael S. Giaimo, the institutes Northeast region director, wrote in a letter to the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources.

And at the hearing, committee members asked about the cost issue, wondering how it would affect consumers.

This is another cost that will be passed down, said Rep. Carol Hagan McEntee, a South Kingstown Democrat.

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Boylan, citing research from the Institute for Policy Integrity, said that oil and gas prices are set by global markets and wouldnt be affected by the law.

Rep. June Speakman likened the measure to past efforts to hold tobacco companies responsible for the negative health effects of smoking.

They knew it was a toxic substance, the Warren Democrat said. They lied about it. They continued to produce it. We had to pay in our health and the death of our loved ones. And eventually they had to pay us back.

'These companies knew exactly what they were doing'

The bill targets fossil fuel companies responsible for more than 1 billion tons of emissions between 1990 and 2024.

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Its unclear which companies would be held liable. Carbon Majors, a global database on greenhouse gases, has found that 57 coal, gas, oil and cement producers have been responsible for 80% of emissions since 2016. The biggest investor-owned companies on their list are ExxonMobil, Shell, BP and Chevron. Over the longer term, Chinese state coal production, fossil fuel production in the former Soviet Union and production by state-owned Saudi Aramco are the biggest emitters.

The legislation tasks the state Department of Environmental Management with calculating the costs of all climate change response work by the state and municipalities and charging fossil fuel companies proportional amounts based on their associated levels of emissions.

DEM director Terry Gray, in a letter to the committee, voiced support for the polluter pays concept behind the bill, but he expressed concerns about its legality.

At the hearing, former state Rep. Aaron Regunberg, who is now director of the climate accountability project at the consumer advocacy group Public Citizen, said theres nothing unfair about making fossil fuel companies pay for climate impacts because their own internal research, as journalists have found, showed the threats posed by increasing emissions.

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These companies knew exactly what they were doing, he said.

Timmons Roberts, environmental studies professor at Brown University and director of the Climate Social Science Network, agreed.

They buried the negative impacts of their product like the tobacco companies did, he said.

Speakman criticized the opponents to the bill for not testifying in person.

"They present in their written testimony lots of claims that I would have liked to explore further with them," she said.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: How RI could force oil and gas companies to pay for climate change
WAUKEGAN, Ill.  Robert Crimo III unexpectedly pleaded guilty Monday to all charges in the July 4, 2022, Highland Park parade shooting that killed seven people.

Crimos trial was set to begin Monday in Lake County Court when his defense attorneys informed Judge Victoria Rossetti that Crimo wished to change his plea to guilty.

The judge then extensively questioned Crimo to make sure he understood what he was doing.

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Crimos mother Denise Pesina briefly interrupted, causing the judge to stop and tell her that she would be removed should she not be quiet. As she left the courtroom after the hearing, Pesina screamed over and over again something about deporting immigrants.

During the hearing, Assistant States Attorney Ben Dillon read a long factual account of what happened, describing how Crimo disguised himself in womens clothes and donned a red, white and blue neck gaiter to cover his tattoos before accessing a rooftop and opening fire on parade-goers.

After firing 80 rounds, Crimo then left the area, dropping his semi-automatic rifle, something area surveillance cameras picked up, Dillon said.

The video player is currently playing an ad. You can skip the ad in 5 sec with a mouse or keyboard Hours later, the defendant was taken into custody and incriminated himself in police interviews, he said.

In addition to the seven that were killed, more than 40 others were injured.

The judge set April 23 for a sentencing hearing. By law, Crimo will be sentenced to natural life in prison.

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WAUKEGAN, Ill.  Robert Crimo III nearly pleaded guilty in June to the Highland Park mass shooting, but then changed his mind in court. On Monday, on the eve of trial in the July 4, 2022 parade shooting, he did another about-face and this time pleaded guilty to 69 felonies.

Crimos 11th-hour decision to plead guilty to 21 counts of first-degree murder and 48 counts of attempted murder short-circuited a trial that was expected to last up to five weeks. Instead, he will be sentenced on April 23 for killing seven people and wounding 48 others at the citys July 4 parade in 2022.

The trial was scheduled to start Monday when Judge Victoria Rossetti asked prosecutors and Crimos defense team if they were ready to begin. The state said yes, but Anton Trizna, one of Crimos public defenders, told the judge that Crimo wanted to change his plea.

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The judge then asked Crimo, 24, a standard series of questions aimed at making sure he understood the ramifications of a guilty plea, and he answered appropriately. Before the questions, Crimos mother Denise Pesina, who was in the gallery, created an outburst and was brought before the judge, who warned her to remain silent if she wished to remain in the courtroom.

Afterward, Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering, who was in court, said the guilty plea was the best outcome for victims and their families, calling it 1,000% better than a trial.

I think at this moment were all just sort of surprised and relieved that they dont have to experience the unbelievable pain of reliving this experience for the next three to five weeks, she said.

States Attorney Eric Rinehart said the June 2024 near-plea agreement did not impede the case his office had assembled.

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Weve been working ever since, he said. We absolutely believed we were going to convict him.

Justice in the legal system does not descend upon a case, it is earned, he said. It comes from the bravery of every victim and every surviving family member who was prepared to come forward in this trial, and they will come forward in the sentencing hearing.

Rinehart said prosecutors did not learn Crimo planned to plead guilty until Monday morning.

This was not a negotiation, the states attorney said. This was not a deal. He made a free decision to plead guilty to every count that was about to be presented to a jury. He received nothing in exchange. We were 1,000% ready for trial and to prove him guilty.

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During Mondays hearing, Assistant States Ben Dillon laid out the key evidence that prosecutors would have presented. On the day of the parade and shooting, he said, Crimo was captured on video approaching a building in downtown Highland disguised as a woman and wearing a red, white and blue gaiter to cover his distinctive neck tattoos.

Moments after the shooting, he was seen leaving the building and dropping a cloth-covered semi-automatic assault rifle, Dillon said. Police recovered more than 80 shell casings from atop the building near Central Avenue and Second Street.

After Crimo was identified as a suspect, he was arrested about eight hours later by a police officer who spotted the suspects car. The clothing seen in the video was in the vehicle, Dillon said, and Crimos purchase of the AR-15-style assault rifle was established through state records.

There was also DNA and fingerprint evidence, the prosecutor said, along with a videotaped confession.

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The judge set April 23 for sentencing. Under state law, anyone found guilty of committing two or more murders receives an automatic life sentence in prison with no possibility for parole. Victims will have a chance to make statements at the sentencing hearing.

Crimo came to court less than half the time during the jury selection process, which took place over three days last week. The judge warned prospective jurors that they should be prepared to hear graphic testimony and view disturbing images.

The mayor said the plea wont ease the pain of those who experienced injury or loss.

Our thoughts and hearts remain with the families whose loved ones were senselessly taken, those who were injured, and those whose lives were forever changed by this horrific act, Rotering said.

By law, Crimo has 30 days during which time he could seek to withdraw his plea, though the court would have to find that he had a substantive reason for seeking to do so.

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  A West Michigan man accused of driving about 730 miles to set fire to a home near Philadelphia has been returned to Pennsylvania to face charges.

Harrison Jones, 21, left the Kent County jail Friday and arrived in Bucks County (Pa.) that night, the local sheriffs department said. He was arraigned on 13 felony and six misdemeanor charges  including six counts of attempted murder and various arson charges  and denied bail.

Rockford man accused of driving to Pennsylvania to set fire

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Authorities say that early on the morning of Feb. 10, Jones set fire to a home in Bensalem Township, just north of Philadelphia. One of the women in the home saw the flames and got everyone out of the house. None of the six people in the home were seriously hurt, though two dogs were killed and the home was destroyed.

A photo released by Bensalem Township police shows a house fire on Feb. 10, 2025.

A photo released by Bensalem Township police shows a house fire on Feb. 10, 2025.

A photo released by Bensalem Township police shows the aftermath of a house fire on Feb. 10, 2025.

Bensalem Township police say they have video that shows Jones fathers car pulling up to the house shortly before the fire. They say the driver went behind the house with an object in his hand, after which the fire broke out. They also say they can track the car going to and from Bensalem and have video of Jones in a Pennsylvania convenience store hours before the fire.

Police have said they believe the crime to be romantically motivated: One of the homes residents was allegedly involved in a relationship with a Michigan woman who was Jones ex-girlfriend, the police chief previously told News 8. But the woman told News 8 she never actually dated Jones and had previously applied for a personal protection order against him.

Rockford man denies starting PA fire, blames mysterious them

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Speaking to News 8 from the Kent County Correctional Facility on Feb. 20, Jones denied burning down the house, but added, theres a lot that I cant talk about because I cant risk getting other people hurt in the whole process. He said he had to do what they said, though he wouldnt explain who they were.

They forced me to do some things I didnt want to do, Jones said. That I had to do, or else (the Michigan woman) would have ended up getting hurt. My family was put at risk.

With bail denied, Jones will remain in the Bucks County jail as his case works its way through the legal system.

A GoFundMe account has been created to support the family in Bensalem. A fundraiser for a Philadelphia animal shelter has also been launched in memory of the dogs killed in the fire. Its goal was $600, but it had raised nearly $3,300 as of noon Monday.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen has resigned following "a board investigation of his personal conduct," the national grocery store chain announced Monday.

Lead Director Ronald Ron Sargent has been appointed interim CEO, effective immediately.

But who is Rodney McMullen? Here's what to know.

Who is Rodney McMullen?

McMullen is the former Chairman and CEO of The Kroger Co. The company announced his resignation Monday, stating that McMullen's conduct was "unrelated to the business," but "was inconsistent with Krogers policy on business ethics."

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According to Kroger's website, McMullen started working for Kroger in 1978 as a part-time stock clerk in Lexington, Kentucky. During his career, he has held numerous leadership positions, including assistant treasurer, vice president of Planning and Capital Management, corporate controller, chief financial officer, senior vice president, executive vice president and vice chairman.

He was elected to the company's board of directors in 2003. He then transitioned to president and chief operating officer in 2009. McMullen was appointed chief executive officer in 2014 and was named chairman of the board in 2015.

He is also on the Board of Directors for Cincinnati Financial Corporation, Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation (3CDC), Cincinnati Business Committee and Consumer Goods Forum. He also serves on the Xavier University board of trustees and the dean's advisory council for the UK Gatton College of Business and Economics.

Where is Rodney McMullen from?

McMullen was born in Pineville, Kentucky, near the border of Tennessee and Virginia. He grew up in Kentucky and Southwest Ohio as his parents, William and Henrietta, moved to work at various factory jobs.

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"My parents had the kind of jobs where if the economy went soft, you got laid off," McMullen told The Enquirer in 2014. "You don't want anyone to have the fear I had growing up."

Rodney McMullen was born in Pineville, Kentucky, near the border of Tennessee and Virginia.

McMullen, an only child, was the first in his family to go to college.

How old is Rodney McMullen?

Although his age has not been confirmed, McMullen is rumored to be around 65 years old. According to Wikipedia, McMullen was likely born in 1960 or 1961.

Where did Rodney McMullen go to college?

McMullen has a bachelor's and a master's degree in accounting from the University of Kentucky.

McMullen was inducted into the UK Gatton Alumni Hall of Fame in 2005. He was later inducted in the Hall of Distinguished Alumni in 2015.

Is Rodney McMullen married?

Yes, McMullen is married to Kathryn King McMullen. The couple reportedly met when they were both students at UK. They currently live in Cincinnati.

Rodney McMullen net worth

According to Market Realist, McMullen has an estimated net worth of at least $22.7 million. He also owns over 6,000 units of Kroger stock valued at over $1.6 million, the financial website adds.

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In 2023, McMullen's total compensation from Kroger was reportedly $15.7 million, per the 2024 IPS Executive Excess report.

Who is the new Kroger CEO?

Lead Director Ronald Ron Sargent has been appointed interim CEO, effective immediately. A permanent replacement for McMullen has yet to be announced.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Who is Rodney McMullen? Age, net worth, what to know about Kroger CEO
On the Southwest Side of Chicago, a Catholic church service was being held in Kiche, a Mayan language, and Olga held her daughter, who is 2 years old and 9 months, as they prayed. Both wore a picturesque and handwoven traje, or a traditional outfit from the highlands of Coban, Alta Vera Paz in Central Guatemala.

Her young daughter and her family in Guatemala, she said, are her inspiration to stay resilient amid the newfound turmoil that immigrants, particularly those who are in the U.S. without permanent legal status, face under the administration of President Donald Trump, she said. She finds community at the service every Sunday.

We come here every Sunday since it started, Olga said in Spanish after the service.

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During the service, the roughly 60 congregants prayed for Pope Francis health and for Trump, so that God can soften his heart towards us, the minister said in Kiche. For Olga and countless others like her, the journey to Chicago has not been an easy one.

Indeed, there are now about 30,000 Guatemalans who are living in the Chicago area without permanent legal status, according to data from the Guatemalan General Consulate in Chicago, as unauthorized migration from the Central American country to the United States has risen dramatically over the past decade.

Many of them are coming from a region that is among the poorest and most rural: the Western Highlands, according to the Migration Policy Institute. An estimated 1.3 million Guatemalans were U.S. residents in 2020, up 44% from 2013, with more than half of them living in the United States without legal status, according to its 2022 report.

Many only speak their native language, few know Spanish and most dont know English.

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In Chicago, the resources available to Guatemalans have not kept pace with their population growth. Few organizations offer resources in Indigenous languages. More so, most Indigenous immigrants dont trust governmental agencies, leading them to hide or live fully under the radar, experts said.

While the resiliency of the Indigenous population in Chicago is admirable, said Pablo Pineda, a leader of the Guatemalan community in Chicago and member of the Coalicion Coordinadora Guatemalteca del Medio Oeste, it is also worrisome.

Most have learned to live under the radar, never asking for anything, only going to work and home. Few understand what to do in case of getting arrested by ICE, he said. They have learned to live only by counting on each other.

Now, their struggle goes beyond settling in a foreign land. They face the threat of an even greater fear: the possibility of deportation. Unlike other Central American immigrants, most Guatemalan immigrants do not qualify for Temporary Protected Status or asylum.

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But despite the challenges, a vibrant yet often unseen community has begun to flourish even amid the recent, turbulent immigration policies. Their roots in the Chicago area have grown deeper each year, forming a cultural mosaic that blends ancient traditions with the grit and resilience of life in a sprawling city.

After Chicago, Bensenville has the largest population of recently arrived Guatemalans. Though not all, most come from rural Mayan towns in Guatemala, sometimes paying up to $20,000 to cross the southern border.

While migration has become an increasingly common pathway out of poverty, food insecurity, violence, corruption and discrimination, many Guatemalan immigrants in Chicago, in particular Indigenous ones, want to return home one day.

But for now, they are trying to rise above the fear and anxiety by creating community with each other.

Praying for mercy

Before Trump took office, more than 100 people would attend the church service in Kiche at a Little Village church. Sometimes, there were so many people that people would have to stand outside, recalled the Rev. Jorge Pec, who arrived in Chicago from an Indigenous town in Guatemala about six years ago.

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Soon after news of raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in Chicago spread, only about 30 people would attend the service every Sunday. But their faith in God keeps them strong, he said. For many immigrants, the church service is the only place they can connect to other immigrants. It is their way to cope with the fear and anxiety of ICE agents knocking on their door.

We must pray for those who intend to harm us and wish them love, Pec said in Kiche during the service. All the while everyone else sang alabanzas like they once did in their hometowns before arriving in Chicago.

Before they found the space in the Catholic church in the Little Village neighborhood to host their service every Sunday, just about a year ago, a group of immigrants began by gathering at one of their apartments, said Antonio, who arrived in Chicago four years ago. He did not provide his last name, fearing for his safety.

He said they collected money to buy musical instruments, including an electronic keyboard piano, a guitar, drums and more. Initially, it was just friends and family gathering to sing and practice their faith in their native language at the small apartment, Antonio said. But eventually, the group began to grow slowly.

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Thats when Pedro Seb, a missionary from a Mayan town in Guatemala, suggested they rent a place to host the service. But even after collecting money among the group, they figured they wouldnt be able to afford to pay nearly $4,000 a month to rent a storefront, Seb recalled.

But then Seb met Dolores Castaneda, a community leader in Little Village. She helped to connect the group to the Catholic church in which they host their service now.

Its a blessing to have this space. We are sad when we cant be close to God, Seb said in Spanish.

Most of those who have recently arrived are young men and women, Pec said. They come with hopes of sending back money to help their families buy land, a home or start a business. Some men migrate alone to send back money to their wives and children. At the church service, a group of young men walked in together. Other young couples and families, like Olgas, prayed together.

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We pray that we reach our goals here, save money and return safely one day, Pec added after a recent Sunday service.

In the most recent weeks some immigrants have returned to Guatemala voluntarily, afraid that they would be suddenly arrested, detained and deported without a chance to take their savings home, Pec said.

In Chicago, there are very few resources available in Kiche or other Mayan languages, and few have attended Know Your Rights workshops. Still, theyre grateful for the local politicians that have advocated for their rights, he said.

Pineda has lived in the city for 22 years. He said he has witnessed the way the community has grown significantly. His restaurant in the Belmont Cragin neighborhood, Latin Patio, has turned into a hub for the Guatemalan community in Chicago: He hosts fundraisers for those in need and Know Your Rights workshops in Spanish with people that help to translate the information to Mayan languages.

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Many dont know Spanish and some dont even know how to read because they come from very rural towns where they have no access to education. Most learn Spanish on their way to the United States, he said.

Most of the children born in the United States learn a mix of their parents Indigenous language and Spanish.

Guatemalan American children speaking up for their parents

When reports of ICEs presence in late January spread in a Bensenville apartment complex mostly occupied by Guatemalan immigrants, Rep. Norma Hernandez, U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez and Rosario Ovando, the new ambassador of the Guatemalan Consulate in Chicago, rushed to the area hoping to get information and help families of those who had been detained.

But after hours of knocking on dozens of doors, few opened up, Ramirez said. Even after passing out flyers and letting them know that they were there to help, neither Ramirez nor Ovando have confirmed any arrests made in the premises.

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It is clear that those families are living in fear, Ramirez said. In the few instances that people opened the door, it was children who would come out. It was my opportunity for those little kids to see me and know that if the daughter of a woman who crossed that border is now on the other side protecting them, those little kids should know that I want them to have the same opportunity that I had, she said.

Ramirez, who grew up in Chicago, said that the community in Bensenville is the fastest-growing Guatemalan community in the state. But she acknowledged the challenges they face and the limited resources available in the area.

They come from extremely impoverished areas in Guatemala. Ive been to those regions, she said. They face language and health issues because some only speak their Indigenous language, she added.

When school buses arrived to drop off children from school that afternoon in January, only a few parents walked to pick up their children and rushed back inside their home. Heidi Giron, 15, went to pick up her siblings instead of her mother, who was still avoiding going outside. The teenager had stayed home from school to stay with her parents, afraid that if she came home, her parents wouldnt be there anymore.

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We dont know how many people they took, but we saw ICE here, said Giron, as she showed a video of the agents on her phone.

As soon as they saw the agents walking outside their apartment in the morning, the family turned off all the lights, locked the doors and went to hide in one of the rooms, she said.

After a few hours, the adults sent Giron, who was born in the U.S., to check if the ICE agents had left the premises.

I fear that some of the kids here are getting home now and their parents arent there, Giron said.

Her mother, Alejandra Garcia, said she had been staying home from work because of the continuous reports of raids and ICE presence in the area.

But I dont know how long we can continue doing that, Garcia said.

As school buses continued to arrive so did Heidi Rivas, a teacher at a local school. They followed the buses to the apartment complex to make sure the children arrived safely and with their parents after hearing of the rumors earlier that day, Rivas said.

We heard about everything that went down this morning so we were making sure that our students got home OK, Rivas said. They were also passing out red cards, which have information in Spanish about what to do in case theyre encountered by ICE agents.

Hi, Ms. Rivas, a young boy yelled from afar.

Did you get home OK? she yelled back. Yes! he said.

Saludame a tu mama. Say hi to your mom, she responded as she hugged Giron. Other people only looked out their windows, still afraid to go outside.

Mistrust

The mistrust the community has in local leaders and politicians is rooted in the way they were treated in Guatemala, Ramirez said

Pineda said: Some are not even willing to attend workshops.

The Guatemalan Consulate in Chicago mostly shares resources on its social media sites and invites people to visit pages that offer information in their different languages. Ovando said she hopes to expand the services offered at the consulate to provide legal help.

She said her office has not received an exact number of how many Guatemalan nationals have been arrested or deported over the last month since Trump took office.

The consulate is here for you with the services that we can provide, with our allies in jails, with our mainland who is already forming a plan to make a safe return and to have the tools to assist in the sense that we can guide them to find a job to return to their communities to insert themselves back to society there, Ovando said.

Ovando acknowledged that the community in the area has vastly grown and there are limitations. Yet, she said that it is important for everyone to have their documents in order to safely return and encourage Guatemalan immigrants with U.S.-born children to apply for Guatemalan citizenship.

_____
Gaza's future remains elusive as ceasefire talks stagnate

Xinhua) 08:12, March 03, 2025

Palestinian people have their iftar meal among destroyed houses on the first day of Ramadan in the northern Gaza Strip town of Jabalia, March 1, 2025. (Photo by Mahmoud Zaki/Xinhua)

* The future for Gazans remains uncertain, as various proposals have emerged over post-war governance and rebuilding yet none has gained broad acceptance.

* However, negotiations have yet to address the second phase of the deal, which seeks to end the war in Gaza and secure Israel's complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, the source added.

* U.S. President Donald Trump has recently proposed the relocation of Gaza's Palestinian population to neighboring countries, stating that Gazans who left will not be allowed to return. The proposal has sparked continuous regional and international outcry.

GAZA, March 2 (Xinhua) -- As the first phase of the Gaza peace deal ended on Saturday and discussions on the second phase have yet to gain momentum, concerns are mounting that the hard-earned and fragile peace could be shattered again, impacting over 2 million people in the besieged coastal enclave.

The future for Gazans remains uncertain, as various proposals have emerged over post-war governance and rebuilding yet none has gained broad acceptance. Despite the instability, many residents have expressed their determination to stay. However, they will continue to endure displacement, destruction and uncertainty.

2ND PHASE ELUSIVE

An Israeli delegation proposed in Cairo extending the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire by 42 days, an informed Egyptian security source told Xinhua on Friday.

However, negotiations have yet to address the second phase of the deal, which seeks to end the war in Gaza and secure Israel's complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, the source added.

In response, Hamas said Saturday that the Israeli proposal of extending the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement is "unacceptable," adding that the mediators and guarantor countries are required to oblige the occupation to abide by the agreement in its various stages.

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem said that there were still no negotiations with Hamas regarding the second phase of the agreement, accusing Israel of "evading the commitment to end the war and withdraw completely from Gaza."

On early Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office said in a statement that Israel has accepted the U.S. proposal for a temporary ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza for the Ramadan and Passover holidays.

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began on Friday and will last until March 30, while the Jewish Passover week will be marked from April 12 to 20.

The statement also stressed that Israel may return to fighting if it believes that the negotiations are ineffective, as the first 42-day phase of the ceasefire-hostages agreement expired on Saturday.

The Israeli think tank Institute for National Security Studies commented, "Israel has not met the war objectives set by the political echelon: It did not fully destroy Hamas's military and governmental capabilities, and the release of the hostages until now has been only partial."

The Washington Institute for Near East Policy said the Israeli prime minister sees phase one of the ceasefire as beneficial due to the gradual release of hostages, but views phase two as a trap that would force Israel's full withdrawal from Gaza, limiting its ability to target Hamas.

Analysts told Xinhua that Netanyahu is also under pressure from far-right Cabinet members, who support only the first phase and demand guarantees that Gaza will no longer threaten Israel, or they will leave the coalition. Their opposition has made the government hesitant to advance negotiations.

People welcome a released Palestinian prisoner in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Feb. 27, 2025. Israeli authorities on Thursday began releasing more than 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails as part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, according to Palestinian sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

DISPUTES OVER SOLUTIONS

U.S. President Donald Trump has recently proposed the relocation of Gaza's Palestinian population to neighboring countries, stating that Gazans who left will not be allowed to return. The proposal has sparked continuous regional and international outcry.

The Israeli Institute for Regional Foreign Policies called Trump's proposals "a mishmash of ideas," noting that Trump's proposals "are often seen as an attempt to apply business principles to diplomacy."

The American public is likely to oppose such a move, as America's appetite for involvement in overseas conflicts has diminished following the failures in Iraq, Afghanistan and Syria, it said.

The proposal "is vehemently opposed by all Arab states, as it would force them to act against their own interests," it added. "If they were to accept it, they would risk undermining the legitimacy and stability of their regimes."

For Gazans, it's also unacceptable. "Israel has always aimed to end our existence either through killing or displacement. But we will remain steadfast on our land. Despite the hardship, we will not leave," Sajida Ayesh, a resident of Saftawi in northern Gaza, told Xinhua.

"We will rebuild what others have destroyed," the 29-year-old mother of three children added.

Ongoing disputes over Gaza's future include a proposal by Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid for an eight-year Egyptian administration over Gaza. Egypt has firmly rejected it, with its Foreign Ministry spokesperson Tamim Khalaf calling the proposals "half-solutions" that would only perpetuate cycles of conflict rather than achieving a permanent peace.

"Ending Hamas' rule ... cannot be achieved without a severe military blow, but it also cannot be achieved by a military blow alone. The elimination of Hamas' rule requires that there be another rule to replace it," an opinion article published by the Israeli newspaper Haaretz said.

Released Palestinian prisoners wave to people on a bus in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Feb. 27, 2025. Israeli authorities on Thursday began releasing more than 600 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails as part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, according to Palestinian sources. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

HUMAN COST

Sajida, the Gaza resident, has been through a heartbreaking journey, repeatedly displaced within southern Gaza in search of safety for her family of five. "In the south, we endured the harshest suffering, fear and hunger ... The Israeli army's promise of protection was a lie," she said.

"I won't repeat that mistake. Even if they kill us here, we will die on our land," she added.

According to UN estimates on Feb. 4, over 565,000 people have fled southern Gaza for the north since Jan. 27. However, those who returned found only devastation. A UN report shows that 92 percent of homes in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed.

As Sajida reached the shores of Gaza City, she paused to watch the calm sea waves. "Sadly, everything has changed. Even the sea, which once reminded us of our dreams, now groans with us," she said.

While the ceasefire has allowed more humanitarian aid into Gaza, the relief remains insufficient. Over 1,500 water points are now operational, but water supply is only at about a quarter of pre-October 2023 levels. Meanwhile, around 350,000 chronically ill patients are facing critical shortages of medications, and between 12,000 and 14,000 people, including 5,000 children, are in urgent need of medical evacuation, according to UN reports.

A devastating winter storm swept through the Gaza Strip in early February. "With winter well underway, nearly 1 million displaced Palestinians remain in immediate need of assistance," the United Nations said.

Om Ahmed al-Ramli, a displaced woman in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, struggled desperately to salvage her remaining belongings after the storm ravaged her tent.

"These are not homes; they are just bits of cloth that barely shield us," she told Xinhua angrily. "Now, even that is gone. The storm took everything, including our last hope."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
HUNTERS RIDGE (KSNT)  Residents north of Topeka are raising their voices over a new road improvement project this week.

Construction work is set to start on Monday, March 10 along northwest 46th Street. Shawnee County is set to make safety improvements on 46th Street between Northwest Fielding Road and Northwest Rochester Road in the area of Hunters Ridge with the project to be finished in October 2026.

County commissioners got together on Monday, March 3 during a weekly workshop meeting to hear an update on the project from Shawnee County Public Works. The project will add a roundabout and sidewalk space.

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New Panda Express opening in Topeka, what to know

Some local residents and workers appeared at the meeting to voice their concerns on the project. One of the chief issues brought up was the impact on traffic for people who live and work in the area.

Youre gonna push all of those kids to 35th or 62nd, and no one can tell me theres been safety studies done? said Erica Lichtenauer, a local realtor. Has the high school been included in these plans?

Lets look at a scenario where we delay the project and build it after I-70 is back open, then youre stacking it up against the Rochester Road project, said Shawnee County Public Works Director Curt Niehaus. Thats not good. So you think people are tired of construction now? Well, 46th street is closed, and then Rochester Road is closed. Now is the time to start this project.

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Shawnee County will host a public information meeting on this project at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4 at the Mother Teresa Catholic Church located at 2014 Northwest 46th Street.

What are the new camping-friendly zones being considered in Topeka?

For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
PRAGUE/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed Russia's war in Ukraine with Czech foreign minister Jan Lipavsky on Monday as Washington and Europe seek to regroup following U.S. President Donald Trump's clash with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy last week.

The two officials discussed U.S.-Czech relations "including our support of peace and stability, increasing defense spending for NATO, and buying U.S. technology to help meet Czechias energy needs," U.S. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a statement following their call.

Rubio also "emphasized President Trumps determination to bring a durable end to the Russia-Ukraine war," she added. Trump on Monday signaled that his patience was running out as European leaders floated a potential ceasefire.

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Lipavsky, in a post on X, said separately that working with the U.S. on a just and lasting peace for Ukraine remains a priority for the Czech government.

"We discussed mutually beneficial transatlantic cooperation including Europe significantly stepping up its burden sharing," he said.

Following a meeting of European leaders in London to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala said on Sunday his ministers would discuss increasing defense spending.

"The goal for all of us is a just peace, a peace that holds," Fiala said before heading to London.

(Reporting by Jason Hovet in Prague and Jasper Ward in Washington; Writing by Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk and Susan Heavey; Editing by Jan Harvey)
Secretary of State Marco Rubio fiercely defended President Trumps approach to negotiating a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia on Sunday, saying the media and public would be praising his efforts if he were a Democrat.

Shouldnt we all be happy that we have a president whos trying to stop wars and prevent them instead of start them? Rubio said in an interview on ABC Newss This Week, amid a tense exchange with George Stephanopoulos over Trumps peace-deal efforts.

I just dont get it. I really dont, other than the fact that its Donald J. Trump, he continued.

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If this was a Democrat that was doing this, everyone would be saying, Well, hes on his way to the Nobel Peace Prize, Rubio added. This is absurd.

Rubio defended Trumps approach, which, as Rubio described it, is a departure from the three years of name-calling directed at Russian President Vladimir Putin and is instead an effort to achieve peace.

We are trying to end a war, he said. You cannot end a war unless both sides come to the table, starting with the Russians. And that, that is the point the president has made. And we have to do whatever we can to try to bring them to the table to see if its even possible.

The interview comes after Trump and Vice President Vance blasted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in an explosive Oval Office meeting on Friday, after the foreign leader challenged Trump and Vance over Putins history of ignoring ceasefire agreements.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Sen. Janne Myrdal, R-Edinburg, speaks during a meeting of the rural caucus in the House conference room on Feb. 20, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

Sen. Janne Myrdal likes to point out that everything North Dakota exports, from energy to food, starts from a gravel road.

Thats why she and other rural lawmakers banded together this session to share information on how they can better serve their communities.

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The rural caucus, about 50 lawmakers from both chambers, amounting up to about a third of the total legislators, try to meet at least once a week to go over bills, their amendments and how they would affect rural constituents.

Because we are split up into committees between the two chambers, you dont have time to go and listen to other hearings. You trust your colleagues in those committees, said Myrdal, R-Edinburg, co-chair of the unofficial caucus. This rural caucus gives us an opportunity to share whats actually going on and what were fighting for.

Co-chair Rep. Jared Hagert, R-Emerado, said there was strong interest during the organizational session in December about forming the caucus to highlight rural priorities.

We may differ on the prioritization of them all, but its important to get those issues out, he said.

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Hagert said the caucus doesnt have any pledges to vote a certain way, but he hopes members would stick together to benefit rural areas.

Sen. Paul Thomas, upper left, R-Velva, speaks during a meeting of the rural caucus in the House conference room on Feb. 20, 2025. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

Myrdal said the pace of legislation making its way through the committees and the floor can be dizzying, so having a group that can highlight specific bills affecting their constituencies is invaluable. A total of 1,083 bills and resolutions have been introduced this session, the highest number since 2009, according to Legislative Council.

Although many think of rural North Dakota as agricultural land, Myrdal points out the rural communities depend on a lot of institutions and services.

Grocery stores, hospitals, ambulance services, schools, you name it. Its everything, Myrdal said. A citizen, one of us 40% that live in rural North Dakota, has the exact same needs as somebody that lives in downtown Fargo.

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One bill highlighted during a recent caucus meeting was Senate Bill 2363, sponsored by Sen. Robert Erbele, R-Lehr. Erbeles bill would have decreased the amount of property taxes that could be levied by local school districts on agricultural land.

The bill failed on a 23-23 vote last week on the Senate floor.

Sen. Paul Thomas, R-Velva, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and rural caucus, said residential, commercial and agricultural land are split pretty evenly on how much they contribute to local property taxes. But with major property tax reform bills targeting primary residences to provide savings to homeowners, agricultural producers are feeling left out of the conversation, he said.

It wouldnt matter if we were talking about just the commercial sector, or just the ag sector, it just needs to continue a balanced approach, Thomas said.

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If the property tax reform measures are signed into law, he said the next time a small community or school wants to do a large project, a greater share of the burden will fall on ag producers.

Thomas added hes hopeful agricultural land will see property tax savings as bills are modified during the second half of the session.

He said one of the greatest benefits for rural communities that passed during the first half of the session was an increase to the Flexible Transportation Fund, which, if signed into law, will include additional funding dedicated solely to road and bridge maintenance and replacement across rural areas of the state.

I think one of the encouraging things of that is a steady stream of funding that we dont have to come back here and argue about every session about how much it should be, or shouldnt be, Thomas said.

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He said he believes the rural caucus lawmakers have created a louder, more unified voice to highlight rural issues during the first half of the session.

Lobbying groups also find the rural caucus as another avenue to inform lawmakers about bills their mainly rural-focused organizations are concerned about.

Sometimes theyve been overlooked to focus on the needs of population centers, and there are so many people in this state that dont live in one of those population centers that they need a strong voice, said Pete Hanebutt, director of public policy for the North Dakota Farm Bureau.

Matt Perdue, government relations director for the North Dakota Farmers Union, said there is a lot of strength in people coming together and working through issues that can benefit all of them.

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We often talk about the business of agriculture, but the future of agriculture relies on farmers and ranchers having strong communities to live in, access to good local services and a good quality of life, Perdue said. I really see the rural caucus as being a key place where we can address those issues.

People are starting to take notice of the group, Myrdal said during a rural caucus meeting after announcing that Gov. Kelly Armstrong expressed interest in attending a future meeting.

We have a voice this time, she said. And its not like were saying, Hey, just listen to us, but no, were part of the conversation. Were at the table.

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Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has been trying to use discussions between the United States and the European Union regarding the possible deployment of European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine to push the Kremlins demands for a change of political regime in Ukraine. Russia has claimed that the Ukrainian government itself is the "root cause" of the war and has been trying to deepen divisions among Western allies.

Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW)

Details: Lavrov stated that plans to deploy European peacekeeping forces in Ukraine are part of Western efforts aimed at "inciting" Ukraine to war against Russia. He claimed that the West brought Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to power "at bayonet point" and plans to use peacekeeping forces to support "his regime".

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Lavrov once again reiterated Kremlin narratives, claiming that the root causes of the war were NATOs eastward expansion and the alleged discrimination of Russian-speaking people in Ukraine.

Quote: "The Kremlin is likely attempting to drive a wedge between the United States and Europe to extract concessions in Russia's favour in future peace negotiations and other talks."

To quote the ISW's Key Takeaways on 2 March:

Recent Russian official statements in response to the proposed US-Ukraine mineral deal indicate that the Kremlin is trying to sabotage the deal through narratives targeting Ukrainian and American audiences. The Kremlin is claiming that this mineral deal does not benefit Ukraine while also claiming that Russia can make a better offer to the United States, indicating that Moscow sees the deal as harmful to its objectives.

The Kremlin has a vested interest in preventing the United States and Ukraine from signing a mineral deal, as the deal will commit the United States to a long-term investment in Ukraine and Ukraine's sovereignty.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is attempting to exploit discussions between the United States and the EU about the possible deployment of European peacekeeping forces to Ukraine as part of a future peace settlement in order to reinvigorate the Kremlin's demands for regime change in Ukraine.

European leaders demonstrated their commitment to supporting Ukraine at a defence summit in London on 2 March.

Ukrainian forces recently advanced near Toretsk, and Russian forces recently advanced near Velyka Novosilka.

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MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia has permanently banned nine Japanese citizens from entering the country, according to a list published by the Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday.

The ministry said that the decision was made in response to Japan's sanctions against Russia related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The list includes Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, the president and representative director of carmaker Isuzu Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara, senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

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In late July 2024 Russia took similar measures against another 13 Japanese nationals, including the chairman of another carmaker, Toyota Motor. Tokyo has protested against that decision.

Entry bans for foreigners are a common measure employed by Moscow in retaliation for sanctions or other opposition against Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.

Similar lists exist for several countries, including the U.S. and Canada and include hundreds of people.

(Reporting by Marina Bobrova and Maxim Rodionov; Editing by Aidan Lewis)
Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) shot to death a suspected terrorist who was allegedly preparing an attack on the Moscow subway station and a Jewish institution, Russian media reported on Mar. 3.

While being detained in Moscow region, the suspect resisted arrest and was "neutralized" during a shootout, the Public Relations Center of the FSB said, in comments reported by Interfax-Russia

Firearms and chemical substances for assembling explosive devices were reportedly found and seized during a subsequent investigation at the suspect's apartment.

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"The terrorist intended to carry out the detonation of self-made explosive materials," the FSB said.

The suspect was a Russian citizen originating from Central Asia and is alleged to have been a member of an international terrorist organization banned in Russia. After the attack, he planned to join a terrorist organization in Afghanistan, the FSB claimed.

According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, four terrorism suspects were killed by the FSB this year so far. One of them was accused by Russia of undergoing training in Kyiv before preparation of an attack against a Russian official.

The State Duma passed a bill on Dec. 12 expanding the criteria for the 'Terrorists and Extremists' registry, including political, religious, ideological, racial or national hatred.

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According to the U.S.-based think tank Institute for the Study of War (ISW), the proposed bill would provide "significant leeway to designate people who have allegedly committed a wide array of crimes as terrorists and extremists."

The law is to take effect on June 1, 2025, Deutsche Welle reported.

Russia has been regularly accused of arbitrarily jailing political opponents and dissidents accused of politically-motivated hatred.

According to the ISW, in seeking to control dissent, the Kremlin is "looking to change the mechanisms for adding people to the terrorist and extremist list in order to incentivize Russians to engage in self-censorship by tightening the Kremlin's control over criticism in Russian society, especially about Russias war in Ukraine."

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Read also: Attacks on Ukraines draft officers on the rise, fueled by social tension and Russian interference

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(Reuters) - Russian Aerospace Forces, part of the country's armed forces, launched a Soyuz rocket carrying a spacecraft for defence purposes, the state RIA news agency reported early on Monday, citing the Russian Defence Ministry.

The Soyuz-2.1b launch lifted off from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome in the Arkhangelsk region in Russia's north, RIA said, without elaborating.

"The Aerospace Forces successfully launched the Soyuz-2.1b medium-class launch vehicle with a spacecraft in the interests of the Russian Defence Ministry," RIA cited the ministry as saying.

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The Russian Soyuz rocket is launched as needed for space missions, including carrying equipment and astronauts to the International Space Station. According to the European Space Agency, the Soyuz vehicles have had nearly 1,700 launches so far.

The Soyuz launches for scientific and exploratory purposes are usually announced by Russia's Roscosmos space agency.

The Plesetsk Cosmodrome is used for launching vehicles with military satellites. In October, the cosmodrome was used for test-firing the Yars intercontinental ballistic missile.

(Reporting by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Richard Chang)
Major General Vadym Skibitskyi, Deputy Head of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine (DIU), has said in an interview that the Russians are planning to increase drone production and are preparing large-scale attacks on Ukraine.

Source: Skibitskyi's interview with RBC Ukraine

Quote: "According to Russian commanders, if plans for the first half of the year are fulfilled, they will be able to launch approximately 500 unmanned aerial vehicles at a time."

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Details: Skibitskyi stated that the Russians aim to enhance the number of UAVs that can be launched simultaneously, as well as broaden the network of launch locations for drones.

He stated that Russia has not changed its targets in missile and drone attacks. The main targets remain the command and control system of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, aviation and airfields, energy and gas transportation infrastructure, as well as defence industry enterprises.

Skibitskyi stressed that the Russian forces have recently been actively attacking the gas transmission system and fields in an attempt to deprive Ukraine of its own resources. There has also been a change in attack tactics - the Russians are clearly planning attacks to inflict maximum damage.

Background: The Russians conducted a large-scale attack on the night of 2-3 March, launching 83 Shahed attack drones and decoy drones from the Russian cities of Oryol, Kursk, Millerovo and Primorsko-Akhtarsk. The Ukrainian defence forces managed to down 46 UAVs.

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Russia plans to launch at least 500 drones per aerial attack against Ukraine, Vadym Skibitskyi, the deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), said in an interview with RBC Ukraine published on March 3.

Both Ukraine and Russia have heavily invested in drone technology throughout the war, significantly altering modern warfare tactics. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Russia has launched thousands of cheap but effective drones at Ukraine.

Russia currently uses 150 to 200 drones per attack against Ukraine which occur on a daily basis, but Russian forces plan to increase their capabilities to 500, Skibitskyi told RBC Ukraine. Russia also plans to increase the number of sites from which drones will be launched.

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Russian forces have significantly increased domestic production of various types of drones, according to Skibitskyi. Russia uses combat and reconnaissance drones, as well as so-called "decoys," which are drones without a payload, he added.

"All of this simply overloads our air defense system. It is very difficult to distinguish between a drone flying with a warhead and one without," Skibitskyi said.

"Earlier, in 2023 and early 2024, we knew only a Shahed (drone), then there were Geran-1, Geran-2, and that was it. Today, the range of these unmanned aerial vehicles is so large that it is not even always possible to count them on one hand," Skibitsky added.

Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said on Feb. 6. Russia is forming unmanned systems forces and plans to recruit up to 210,000 personnel for the new branch by 2030.

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Ukraine, as well as Russia, has continuously expanded its drone capabilities, using aerial, naval, and ground-based systems for reconnaissance, precision strikes, and other operations.

The country's Unmanned Systems Forces announced on Jan. 31 that Ukrainian troops are now employing a long-range drone capable of traveling up to 2,000 kilometers (1,242 miles) while carrying a 250-kilogram air bomb.

Read also: 10 Ukrainian drone makers to watch

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The Russian army is trying to break through the Russia-Ukraine border in Sumy Oblast and cut Ukrainian forces off from its logistics routes, State Border Guard spokesperson Andrii Demchenko said on March 3 on national television.

Demchenko's statement comes after Russian forces attempted to cross the Russia-Ukraine border in Sumy Oblast near the village of Novenke but were repelled the previous week.

Northeastern Sumy Oblast borders Russia's Kursk Oblast, where Ukrainian forces launched an incursion last summer to draw away Moscow's troops from Donbas and disrupt Russian plans for an offensive from the north.

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Demchenko said Russia is attempting to enter Ukrainian territory with assault groups in the direction of the village of Novenke that lies just across the border, some 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of the regional center, Sumy.

The Ukrainian army is making every effort to prevent Russian units from gaining a foothold on Ukrainian territory, Demchenko said, adding that Russian troops mainly use "large numbers of equipment and personnel" in Kursk Oblast to achieve a breakthrough.

"These are not mass assaults. When the enemy tries to drive the Ukrainian Defense Forces out of Kursk Oblast, firstly, it puts pressure on our units within Kursk Oblast," Demchenko said.

"And then, it (Russia) is trying to expand the area of active combat activities, trying to enter the territory of Ukraine. However, all elements of the Defense Forces are operating in that area to prevent this. All available weapons are being used," he added.

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Ukraine launched a surprise cross-border incursion into Kursk Oblast in August 2024. After six months of fighting in the region, Russian troops have regained control of about 64% of the territory in the region, the Russian military claimed.

Russian casualties have reached nearly 40,000 in Kursk Oblast, including over 16,000 killed, Ukraine's General Staff reported on Feb. 6. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said last November that the incursion thwarted Russia's plans to invade Sumy Oblast in an attempt to create a "buffer zone" in the region.

Read also: As long as Russia is advancing, the war will continue military analyst Rob Lee on what awaits Ukraine in 2025

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Russian attacks against Ukraine killed six civilians and injured 26 others over the past day, regional authorities reported on March 3.

Russian forces launched 83 drones from the Russian cities of Orel, Kursk, Millerovo, and Primosk-Akhtarsk at Ukraine overnight, according to Ukraine's Air Force.

Ukraine's air defense shot down 46 drones over Kharkiv, Sumy, Dnipropetrovsk, Poltava, Kyiv, Cherkasy, Chernihiv, and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, the Air Force said.

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Another 31 drones disappeared from radars without causing any damage, according to the statement. Drones that disappear from radars before reaching their targets are often decoys that Russia launches alongside real drones to overwhelm Ukraine's air defense.

In Kherson Oblast, Russia targeted 25 settlements, including the regional center of Kherson, over the past day. As a result of the attacks, four people were killed, and 10 other people were injured, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported.

In Donetsk Oblast, Russian forces killed two civilians and injured another in the city of Pokrovsk. One person was also injured in the town of Kostiantynivka, Governor Vadym Filashkin said.

In Kharkiv Oblast, Russian drones hit a five-story building, injuring eight people, including a 6-year-old child, in the regional center of Kharkiv. As a result of a Russian attack with four glide bombs at the village of Dovzhyk, a woman and a man suffered injuries, according to Governor Oleh Syniehubov.

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In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, Russian forces targeted the town of Nikopol with artillery, injuring an 84-year-old man and two women, aged 44 and 82. The man was rescued from the rubble and hospitalized in a severe condition.

Russia also attacked the city of Kryvyi Rih with drones. A 52-year-old woman was injured, the local military administration reported.

Read also: Zelensky will have no choice but to concede  Trump reposts commentary claiming mineral deal ensures Ukraines security

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Animals have been killed in Feldman Ecopark in Kharkiv Oblast as a result of a Russian attack. A Shahed drone struck near the petting zoo, where domestic animals were kept, on the night of 2-3 March.

Source: Ecopark spokesperson Olena Klymenko in a comment to Suspilne Kharkiv, a Kharkiv-related branch of the Ukrainian public broadcaster

Quote from Klymenko: "There is damage to enclosures and animals were killed  the goats that were in the yard. The scene of the strike is currently being inspected, and the consequences are being assessed."

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Updated: The Office of the Prosecutor General has announced the launch of a pre-trial investigation into a war crime (Part 1, Article 438 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

The investigation has established that at approximately 01:00 on 3 March, a Russian UAV attacked the settlement of Lisne in the outskirts of Kharkiv, where Feldman Ecopark is located.

As a result of the attack, animal enclosures were destroyed and animals were killed.

"All possible and appropriate measures are being taken to document the war crimes committed by Russian servicemen," law enforcement officials stated.

Background:

On 2 March, a Russian drone hit a multi-storey building in the centre of Kharkiv, injuring eight people.

On 4 May 2022, a 15-year-old volunteer was killed during the evacuation of animals from Feldman Ecopark.

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General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has ordered the suspension of the head of a training centre and the commander of a military unit in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, whose training ground was struck by Russian forces on 1 March, resulting in fatalities and casualties among Ukrainian servicemen.

Source: Syrskyi on Facebook

Quote: "To determine all circumstances and causes of the tragedy, a comprehensive commission, led by the head of the Main Directorate of the Military Law Enforcement Service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, is working at the scene.

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During the investigation, the head of the training centre and the commander of the military unit have been suspended from their duties."

Details: Syrskyi stated that he had instructed commanders of different branches of the Armed Forces to conduct inspections regarding compliance with orders from the Commander-in-Chief and the General Staff. These include ensuring timely alerts about missile threats, prohibiting (or restricting) the assembly of personnel and meetings in open areas and preventing troops from being stationed in unsuitable locations.

He also ordered a review of the implementation of previous directives regarding the conduct of training exercises outside designated training areas  preferably in fortified, engineered structures that provide reliable protection for personnel. Additionally, he mandated an assessment of engineering efforts undertaken to secure such locations.

Background: The Command of Ukraines Ground Forces confirmed that on 1 March, Russian forces attacked a military unit at a training ground in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. The attack was carried out with an Iskander-M ballistic missile equipped with a cluster warhead, causing fatalities and casualties.

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Russian forces have attacked the city of Kryvyi Rih in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast with drones, injuring a person and damaging an industrial facility, a medical institution and residential buildings.

Source: Serhii Lysak, Head of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "The enemy targeted Dnipropetrovsk Oblast with drones in the evening and at night. Air defence forces downed seven UAVs.

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A 52-year-old woman was injured in the attack in Kryvyi Rih. She received medical assistance at the scene and will be treated at home. A fire broke out but was extinguished. An industrial facility, a medical institution, six high-rise buildings and a car were damaged."

Affected car

Photo: Serhii Lysak on Telegram

Details: The Russians also attacked the Nikopol district in the evening of 2 March and the morning of 3 March.





Shattered windows

Photo: Serhii Lysak on Telegram

"[The enemy] targeted Myrove and Marhanets hromadas with kamikaze drones. No people were killed or injured," Lysak concluded. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories  ed.]

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The Russians are once again trying to approach the Ukrainian border in the area where defence forces are conducting an operation in Russias Kursk Oblast. Russian forces are attempting to enter Ukrainian territory to sever logistics routes, but these efforts are not on a large scale.

Source: Colonel Andrii Demchenko, spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service, on air during the joint national 24/7 newscast

Details: The officer noted that Russian forces are employing significant forces, including equipment and personnel, in the Kursk operation. However, along the border line, Ukrainian defence forces are effectively striking them.

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Quote: "We are currently seeing the enemy attempting to enter our territory with assault groups or expand the zone of active combat within Ukraine near the settlement of Novenke. However, the units of the State Border Guard Service and other components of the defence forces are inflicting maximum damage to prevent the enemy from securing positions and amassing forces on Ukrainian territory.

Our task is to prevent their advance deeper into Ukraine and the severing of logistical routes that supply defence forces during the operation within Kursk Oblast.

These are not large-scale assaults. When the enemy attempts to push Ukrainian defence forces out of Kursk Oblast, they primarily exert pressure on our flanks within the region. Subsequently, they try to expand the active combat zone by advancing into Ukrainian territory. However, all components of the defence forces are operating in this direction to prevent that, using all available weapons."

Background:

On 25 February, Russian forces stormed a border section in Sumy Oblast and entered Ukrainian territory. The defence forces drove them out, but the Russians continued attempts to attack with infantry.

Ukrainska Pravda sources in Ukrainian units operating in Kursk Oblast indicate that Russian forces aim to advance from the village of Novenke towards a key road that supplies the Ukrainian grouping in Kursk Oblast  Sumy-Yunakivka-Sudzha.

Since early 2025, the Russians have been actively using FPV drones along this route, reaching 7-10 km beyond the border into Ukrainian territory, which is a considerable operational depth. Now, they are attempting to completely sever the road, as Ukrainska Pravda sources state.

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The Russians have conducted military exercises called Storm-2025 in the temporarily occupied city of Mariupol, involving local men. After the training was completed, most of them were sent to the line of contact to take part in combat against Ukraine.

Source: Ukraines National Resistance Center (NRC)

Details: The NRC reported that participants in this event included members of the security forces of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic [unrecognised Russia-backed quasi-state formation in Donetsk Oblast  ed.], along with civilians. These were men registered as "reservists" in the occupation administration of the city.

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Quote: "Training these reservists is yet another tactic used by the Kremlin to drag the local population into the war against their own homeland. After such exercises, most men do not return home but are instead sent to the front. Through this deception, the Kremlin seeks to replenish its army and prolong its bloody war in Ukraine."

Background:

At the end of February, Russian occupation administrations in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk Oblast officially launched mobilisation measures, attempting to disguise them as "training camps".

Earlier, Ukraine's National Resistance Center reported that Russia was preparing to intensify forced mobilisation in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine in the spring of 2025 to compensate for the significant losses at the front line.

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The Russian forces have intensified their offensive in Russia's Kursk Oblast, with a total of 109 combat clashes taking place on the frontline over the past day.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 08:00 on 3 March

Quote: "Yesterday (2 March - ed.), the enemy launched one missile attack on the positions of Ukrainian units and residential areas, using four missiles, and 88 airstrikes, using 126 guided aerial bombs. In addition, they carried out more than 5,600 attacks, including 124 from multiple-launch rocket systems, in addition to launching 2,375 kamikaze drones."

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Details: Over the past day, one battle took place on the Kharkiv front in the vicinity of Vovchansk.

The Russian troops conducted three attacks on the Kupiansk front. Ukrainian forces repelled attacks near the villages of Zahryzove, Petropavlivka and Lozova.

The Russians conducted 15 attacks on the Lyman front, trying to advance near the villages of Nove, Yampolivka and Novomykhailivka.

On the Kramatorsk front, the Russians attacked four times near the city of Chasiv Yar and the villages of Hryhorivka and Oleksandro-Shultyne.

On the Toretsk front, fourteen Russian attacks were registered in the vicinities of Toretsk and Shcherbynivka.

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On the Pokrovsk front, Ukrainian forces stopped eighteen attacks towards Tarasivka, Promin, Pokrovsk Kotlyne, Udachne, Kotliarivka, Andriivka, Vodiane Druhe and Ulakly.

On the Novopavlivka front, Ukrainian defence forces repelled five attacks near Kostiantynopil, Pryvilne and Skudne.

On the Orikhiv front, the Russians attacked Ukrainian positions twice near Nesterianka and Novodanylivka, but unsuccessfully.

On the Prydniprovske front, the Russian troops tried to break through the defensive lines three times.

No offensive actions were registered on the Siversk and Huliaipole fronts.

Ukrainian defenders repelled 30 attacks on the Kursk front over the past 24 hours. The Russians launched 444 artillery shells, including 12 from multiple-launch rocket systems. They also carried out 19 airstrikes, dropping 30 guided aerial bombs.

On the Volyn and Polissia fronts, there is no evidence of the formation of offensive Russian groups there.

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Ukraines Ground Forces have reported that on 1 March, one of their units became the target of a Russian missile strike. Earlier, reports emerged on social media about a Russian attack on a training ground in the village of Cherkaska, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, where Ukrainian soldiers of the 157th Separate Mechanised Brigade were located.

Source: volunteer Serhii Sternenko on Telegram; Commander of the Ukrainian Ground Forces Mykhailo Drapatyi on Facebook; Ukrainian Ground Forces on Facebook; Ukrainska Pravda sources from within and outside the defence forces

Quote from Ground Forces: "On 1 March, one of the units of the Ukrainian Ground Forces was targeted in a Russian missile strike. Unfortunately, there are fatalities and casualties. The command and personnel of the Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine extend their deepest condolences to the families and friends of the servicemen who lost their lives in this missile strike.

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A thorough investigation is currently underway to establish all the circumstances of the incident. The Military Law Enforcement Service and law enforcement agencies are being provided with all necessary information to ensure maximum transparency in the investigation."

Details: Early estimates, provided by two Ukrainska Pravda sources from within and outside the defence forces, suggest that the attack resulted in several dozen fatalities and up to a hundred casualties.

Volunteer Serhii Sternenko reported on 2 March that Russian forces struck a training ground with Ukrainian military personnel in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, located 100-130 km from the front line.

Quote from Sternenko: "The strike was adjusted by a Russian reconnaissance UAV. It was not shot down because a full-fledged system is still not in place. The Air Command Skhid (East) currently has the worst indicators for implementing drone-based air defence. Previously, the commander of this command even prohibited training flights with FPV drones. The consequences were already felt  such as the strike on a Patriot system. There was no accountability. None."

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Details: Ground Forces Commander Mykhailo Drapatyi stated that he is personally overseeing every step to clarify the incident minute by minute. "Because it hurts me too. Because anger is eating me up," he wrote.

Quote from Drapatyi: "I waited for initial data to avoid speculation, and now I must warn: everyone who made decisions that day, and everyone who failed to make them on time, will be held accountable. No one will hide behind explanations or formal reports."

More details: Drapatyi noted that he expects attempts to obscure the truth under bureaucratic procedures.

Quote from Drapatyi: "But I will not allow that. I have ordered an independent investigation involving military counterintelligence to ensure that no detail is overlooked and that those responsible are identified and cannot 'cover it up'. I will demand the harshest punishment. Those who, after years of war, continue to perform their duties carelessly and formally, those who drag the military into outdated procedures, neglecting their safety and those who assert their authority not in battle but by oppressing their subordinates  all of them disgrace the Armed Forces of Ukraine."

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MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)  Midland County and the City of Midland are working together on a public alert warning system that will deliver urgent messages to the community fast.

Midland police, the Sheriffs, Midland Fire Department, and the Midland County Emergency Management shared that they will have access to send direct messages to cell phones within a specific geographic area. They can pick the area based on where an incident may take place.

The system is an Integrated Public Alert Warning System, also known as IPAWS.

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The city and county will begin conducting controlled public tests of the system at the end of February.

IPAWS is designed for broader and immediate emergency alerts, officials shared.

Officials hope this form of notification will be faster and more reliable.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The former district director for San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. is accusing the politician of fostering a toxic workplace where she was cursed at, harassed and paid nearly $50,000 less than male employees in similar roles.

Sonja Pang filed a government tort claim against the county last week seeking damages for her recent termination and the alleged abuse she suffered while working under Baca.

Pang in her claim alleges Baca was a bullying boss who called one staffer "pubehead" and said another needed to be pushed out of her job because she was aging, always sick, and didn't do "s but soak up his budget." Pang also alleges that Baca stared at her breasts, made sexual comments about his employees and openly said he preferred female job candidates who were physically attractive.

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In a statement to The Times on Friday, Baca said there is "not a kernel of truth" to any of Pang's allegations and he's disappointed to think that someone would "fabricate such completely false allegations."

"Many people have worked for me in the California Legislature and as a County Supervisor, and I have always treated each member of my staff with the utmost respect and shown appreciation for the work they do for me and the public we serve," he said. "I have long been and always will be a champion for the advancement of women and fair treatment for all workers, always beginning with my own staff."

Read more: A rising San Diego politician abruptly quit, citing 'personal safety.' It raises a lot of questions

A spokesperson for the county said they were unable to comment on pending litigation.

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The tort claim is a necessary precursor to filing a lawsuit against Baca and the county, which Pang intends to do soon, according to her attorney, Joe Richardson of McCune Law Group.

Pang worked for Baca from when he assumed office in 2020 until her termination on Feb. 21. At the time she was fired, she says she was serving as his district director/acting chief of staff.

She alleges that Baca ran a retaliatory workplace and told her that "if anyone reported any complaints against him to the HR department, they would be removed," according to the claim. She says she knows of at least two other employees who were allegedly forced to resign or terminated for speaking up.

"Many times, Baca would abusively shout orders to Pang and threaten her with her job if she did not comply," the claim states. "He would yell and curse at her, and he would threaten to 'make big changes' if she did not do what he asked."

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She further alleges that she was "grossly underpaid" compared to her two male predecessors as well as staffers with similar responsibilities in other county offices.

She claims that when she asked Baca about a raise she said he had promised her, he said something to the effect of, "I can get another person for [her] position that is 'younger, prettier, and with no kids'," according to the claim.

Read more: Broad museum hit with discrimination and sexual harassment lawsuit

Pang also accuses Baca of overworking county employees and having them assist with his campaign work, which is not permitted.

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She also claims he sabotaged her efforts to get hired in a different office at the county, alleging that managers who were previously open to discussing opportunities with her shut her out after she was terminated.

She alleges that Baca "influenced this change, effectively freezing her out of future employment opportunities within county."

Baca is a former high school teacher who served one term in the state Assembly, from 2004 to 2006, before stepping down to unsuccessfully run for state Senate. He went on to serve on the Rialto City Council before being elected to the Board of Supervisors. He represents the board's 5th District encompassing the cities of San Bernardino, Rialto and Colton.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(KRON)  A San Francisco woman has been arrested in a Daly City incident where she allegedly pulled a horses tail during a young riders lesson, startling the animal and injuring the child. The shocking moment was captured on cellphone video last month and made its fair share of rounds of social media, causing outrage.

1 critically injured in Oakland crash along International Blvd.

Daly City police said Tomasa Panjojleon, 29, was arrested on Saturday for felony child endangerment and booked into San Mateo County Main Jail in Redwood City.

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Daly City police said the incident happened on Feb. 23 at the Thornton Beach Recreation Area. Police said the child was thrown from the horse after it bucked when Panjojleon approached the horse from behind and pulled its tail. Police said Panjojleon left the scene before officers arrived.

Photo Credit: KRON4.

The child was injured in the fall, and his current condition was not disclosed in a news release.

KRON4 spoke with Ocean View Stables whose farm tends to the large quarter horse, named Zeuss, who was harmed in the incident.

Pretty much, we were doing our normal pasture pony ride where we take kids out on a little ten-to-fifteen-minute ride to get them used to horses and comfortable, said Caroline Reed of Ocean View Stables. [The video of the incident] was very blown up on social media, obviously because it was a very odd circumstance. You wouldnt think anyone would walk up to a horse and just yank its tail. Thats not really the normal thing for someone to do around an animal like that. Weve been in cooperation with the police since. From what were being told, the child is okay.

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Despite the arrest, the Daly City Police Department is asking anyone with information on the case to contact its Investigations Division at (650) 991-8270.

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Western sanctions and shrinking export opportunities in Asia have triggered a severe crisis in Russia's coal industry, particularly in Kemerovo Oblast, the country's key coal-producing region, the Moscow Times reported on March 3.

Kemerovo Oblast, or Kuzbass, which accounts for 60% of Russia's hard coal production and 80% of its coking coal, has been hit the hardest.

Financial troubles have forced eight coal companies in the region to halt operations, leaving hundreds of miners without pay for months, according to Kemerovo Governor Ilya Seredyuk.

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"Falling prices on world markets, problems with logistics, a shortage of personnel, and a high key rate  along with Western sanctions  have created a serious challenge for the coal industry," Seredyuk said.

Russia has attempted to shift coal exports to Asia after losing access to Western markets, but demand has declined.

In 2023, Indian coal imports from Russia fell by 37%, while Chinese imports dropped by 13%. As a result, total coal exports from Kuzbass fell by 10.4%, and regional production declined by 7.3% to 198.4 million tons (396 million pounds).

Despite Moscow's deepening economic ties with Beijing, Western sanctions have become an increasing hurdle to Russian-Chinese trade, further compounding financial losses and bankruptcies in Russia's coal sector.

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Read also: Ukraine bonds drop sharply following Trump-Zelensky argument, Reuters reports

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After analyzing 175 placentas, U.S. researchers discovered a link between premature births and microplastics.

While scientists don't yet know if the link can be chalked up to causation or correlation, it shouldn't be overlooked. As Enrico Barrozo, one of the researchers, told The Guardian, "I think it is important to increase people's awareness of microplastics and their associations with potential human health effects."

What's happening?

The researchers studied 100 full-term placentas and 75 premature ones. The Guardian reported that microplastics were found at a 50% higher rate in the premature placentas. This was a "big surprise" for the researchers.

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Researcher Kjersti Aagaard, of Boston Children's Hospital, told The Guardian, "Combined with other recent research, this study adds to the growing body of evidence that demonstrates a real risk from exposure to plastics on human health and disease."

Microplastics are bad news. They have been linked to numerous health conditions, including liver fibrosis and lipid buildup, leading to fatty liver disease.

Why are these findings important?

The more that's discovered about preterm births, the better. "Preterm birth is the leading cause of infant death worldwide," according to The Guardian, and the reasons for approximately two-thirds of preterm births are unknown.

A link between air pollution and premature births had already been established, so it stood to reason that microplastics might also affect them.

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This new study also adds to the limited knowledge of these particles. Microplastics have historically been studied in waterways, as they're easier to find there, per Yale Sustainability. Scientists have found that fish and other sea creatures ingest microplastics, leading to health problems not just for the animals directly consuming them but also for the predators that eat those animals.

Microplastics in other locations have been studied less frequently as a result. Scientists still don't know the extent to which microplastics have infiltrated the air, the land, and so on.

Do you worry about air pollution in your town? All the time Often Only sometimes Never Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Learning more about microplastics will give people the opportunity to react accordingly and, hopefully, do something about them.

What's being done about the effects of microplastics?

Since there's no definitive proof that microplastics directly cause premature births, nothing is currently being done. However, there are measures you can take to limit your exposure.

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Imari Walker-Franklin, a microplastics expert at RTI International, told The Cool Down that "moving towards a reusable water bottle, filtering your water with reverse osmosis, or [getting] a general Brita water filter" can reduce the amount you consume. That's because single-use plastics, such as water bottles, contain more microplastics.

The next step for researchers is to popularize preventative measures. Barrozo told The Guardian, "Those interventions need to be studied in order to show that there's a benefit to avoiding these plastics."

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)  Scranton authorities say they arrested two people in connection to an alleged robbery and kidnapping of a juvenile.

In a release, officials say on Friday, February 28, the Scranton Police Detective Divison arrested two people on the 800 block of Pittston Avenue associated with the criminal street gang Popote for the robbery and kidnapping of a rival gang member that happened on Saturday, February 22.

Police explained the accused, 20-year-old Cesar Rodriguez-Hernandez and his 17-year-old juvenile accomplice, did allegedly partake with other armed people to forcibly remove the juvenile victim from an Ash Street car wash to the Skyview Housing complex.

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PSP investigating theft by deception after Dalton man loses $36K

The alleged then removed the victims sweatshirt and sneakers and ordered him to run under the threat of being shot, authorities explained.

Police credit the cooperation of the victims family members, the businesses cited, and the Scranton School District Administration as being instrumental in this investigation.

Their participation is an example of how we can all make our City and our schools safer by engaging with law enforcement to solve crime and ultimately prevent future violence in our City. Scranton Police Department

The active criminal investigation is ongoing, and police encourage anyone with information on this incident to contact the Scranton Police Detective Division.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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This story was initially published Feb. 5, 2024, and has been updated with new information.

Hoosiers may soon be able to choose a "water burial" after at least a decade of lawmakers trying to add it to the options funeral services may offer.

Rep. Mark Genda, R-Frankfort, once again introduced a bill that would legalize alkaline hydrolysis, a "green" form of cremation promoted as more environmentally friendly than other options. House Bill 1044 would mandate the state to create rules for the process before January 1, 2026.

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Efforts to add water cremations to the list of funeral services for Hoosiers have been underway since at least 2015. Gendas bill this year has passed through the house and is awaiting a hearing with a Senate committee.

Alkaline hydrolysis has been used in the U.S. since 2003 and is available in roughly half of states across the country. The process does not involve the burning of fossil fuels nor produce the pollution that traditional cremation does. It does, however, use a significant amount of water.

The process involves dissolving a humans remains in a chemical mixture using heat and water. This, much like traditional cremation, leaves behind bone remains that can be memorialized.

Alkaline hydrolysis is not the only form of a green, or eco-friendly burial, there are other sustainable options Hoosiers can choose.

Various shades of green burials

Green burial can mean different things to different people  to some, it means a very specific form of disposition, but to others it encompasses the broader umbrella of sustainable options for after-death care.

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The Green Burial Council talks about any form of disposition that reduces impact on the environment, said Sam Perry, president of the national group. We want to conserve land, protect natural resources and protect worker health, too.

Perry, who also is a licensed funeral director in Indiana and Illinois, said the group also is working to change the term from green to natural burial, noting there can be negative connotations with use of the term green. It also better represents what these options are and what they provide for families, he said.

Scrub Hub: Where can Hoosiers get help identifying, eradicating invasive plants?

Still, the GBC works with a particular definition of green or natural burial. For their organization, a natural burial focuses on three key elements that differ from the conventional version.

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The first factor is how the body is prepared. In a traditional burial, bodies are often embalmed with a mixture of chemicals such as formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde and other solvents. In a natural burial, that doesnt happen and bodies typically are not embalmed, Perry said.

The second element of a natural burial is the container in which the body is buried. Usually, bodies are buried in a metal casket or one that is wood but lacquered and treated with other chemicals. These materials do not easily or readily break down.

With natural burials, bodies are placed in containers that will biodegrade. Perry said that can include caskets made from wicker or bamboo, for example, or even a simple pine box that is untreated.

The last aspect that makes for a natural burial is where the bodies are buried. Many cemeteries bury their caskets in vaults or liners, often made of concrete, which are meant to be protective receptacles. That very characteristic, however, goes against allowing bodies to decompose as part of a natural burial.

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Its these elements  the lack of chemicals, non-biodegradable materials, as well as minimal carbon footprint as compared to cremation  that explain why natural burials are considered an environmentally-friendly option.

Environmental bill: 'Water cremation' could be coming to Indiana. What is it and why is new option important.

According to Perry, green burials are allowed in every state, including Indiana. That said, there are still accessibility issues for such services across the country.

In recent years, Perry has seen significant growth in both public interest and demand in natural burials and other sustainable disposition options. In response, he also is seeing more funeral homes and cemeteries wanting to learn more in how to offer natural services.

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People who come to natural burial usually are more comfortable with that natural decomposition and the breakdown of the body and going back to nature, Perry said. Its the idea that we arent separate from nature, but we are part of it.

There are other types of sustainable after-death options that also are becoming more popular. These include the water cremation IndyStar previously wrote about or another process called human composting. While still a better alternative to traditional burial or cremation, Perry said, both of these options also have their drawbacks  such as water and energy usage.

If you have any more questions about green burials or any other sustainable alternatives, please ask us! You can submit a question to the Scrub Hub through the Google form below.

Call IndyStar reporter Sarah Bowman at 317-444-6129 or email at sarah.bowman@indystar.com. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @IndyStarSarah. Connect with IndyStars environmental reporters: Join The Scrub on Facebook.

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IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: 'Green' burials grow in popularity as people want sustainable options
SCOTT COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE)  A man was charged with murder after his missing wifes body was found in Scott County, Sheriff Brian Keeton wrote.

Megan Raymond of Clarksville was found on Saturday after a tip, according to the Scott County Sheriffs Office. Her husband, Dennis Raymond, has been arrested and charged with her murder.

Fatal crash in Morgan County, one driver charged with DUI

Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers, Keeton posted. He thanked the quick response and efforts of the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation as well as Scott Countys officers and detectives.

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According to WATEs sister station, WKRN, the Clarksville Police Department reported that Megan Raymond was missing on Friday.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WATE 6 On Your Side.
Adorably fuzzy sea otters arent just cute. The marine mammals serve a crucial role, helping to restore the giant kelp forests they rely on by removing their top predators, the sea urchins.

Kelp forests tower above the ocean floor, with the large brown algae providing food and shelter for thousands of species. However, they are threatened by storms, pollution, warming waters, and overharvesting. Sea otter population growth during the last century has enhanced kelp forest resilience, according to researchers at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

When studying sea otters along the coastlines of islands in Southern California and British Columbia, scientists found that how quickly these forests grew back depended on their location. But, they didnt know why.

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Now, new research has found that sea otters level of influence also depends on what other species they interact with.

Sea otters rely on kelp in the ocean to provide shelter and sustenance. The marine mammals also help to restore kelp forests, controlling populations of sea urchins that devour the algae. Now, scientists say they know why some places bounce back quicker than others (AFP via Getty Images)

We always thought keystone species control their ecosystem the same way, regardless of where they are or what else is in the ecosystem, Ryan Langendorf, an environmental studies researcher at the University of Colorado at Boulder, said in a statement. A more modern view is that they are still very important, but they can have different effects in different places.

Langendorf is the lead author of the findings published Monday in the journal PNAS.

They used decades of observations to create a time series of interactions, looking at how they interact and the number of local species.

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They determined that while kelp forests had grown back in both British Columbia and Southern California, they regenerated faster off British Columbia. So, they developed a model to create a movie of species interactions, showing how sea otters, urchins, and kelp interacted in both areas.

Ultimately, there was more species competition off the Golden State, slowing sea otters positive impact on the ecosystem. They didnt have as strong of an effect as they did up north.

Now, the authors say their model can help researchers better understand ecosystem changes when species are reintroduced to places that are changing and evolving: a constant as the oceans alter due to climate change.

Sea otters are a keystone species, meaning they help to hold their ecosystem together. But, the otters are threatened by climate change and other hazards (Getty Images)

A changing climate threatens the 3,000 southern sea otters off California, amplifying dangers posed by exposure to harmful pathogens and algal blooms, susceptibility to white shark bites through losses in kelp canopy cover, and decreasing some prey availability through ocean acidification. Southern sea otters occupied only about 13 percent of their historical range two years ago.

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The dynamic nature of ecosystems has long kept ecologists from understanding what species need and how best to manage them, Lagendorf explained.

Being able to turn common survey data into a movie of species reacting to changes in their environment and each other feels like renewed hope for a field that more than ever needs to offer useful advice about how to help the many complex living systems we live with and cherish, he said.
Utah State University's Old Main is pictured on Oct. 8, 2024. (Photo by Kelly Winter for Utah News Dispatch)

Should top candidates in the search for university presidents be kept from the public eye? A bill advancing in the Utah Legislature says yes.

Currently, a search committee tasked with selecting finalists to lead the states higher education institutions makes public a short list of three to five candidates for the Board of Higher Educations consideration. Up until that point, the process is confidential.

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But, with SB282, Senate Majority Whip Chris Wilson, R-Logan, would like to change to be a more secretive process in which only the top candidate would be made public, after a selection has been made. The goal, he said, is to avoid repercussions for the candidates that arent selected and potentially expand the pool of applicants.

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Job applicants should have privacy throughout the hiring process, ensuring their personal information and application materials are handled with confidentiality, Wilson told the House Education Committee on Friday. This is especially important if an applicant is not selected for the position, as they should not face unnecessary disclosure or discussion of their personal data.

The bill had a smooth path in the Senate, passing almost unanimously every time it was put up to a vote. Now, after the House Education Committee voted unanimously to recommend the bill, it advances to the House floor for its consideration.

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Transparency is essential to the state and government, Wilson said. But, he described the timing of sharing information as equally vital. By protecting candidates privacy, the state would ensure highly qualified individuals arent discouraged from applying, he said.

The Board of Higher Education has taken a neutral position on the bill, Commissioner of Higher Education Geoff Landward said in a February Senate Education Committee hearing.

I can confidently say that we have not had a single search wherein we were talking to very high quality candidates who essentially said that they would be interested and willing to apply, were it not for the fact that the final three candidates would have to be public, he said, because that would put their current employment in peril unnecessarily.

The Utah Media Coalition disputes the claim that Utah hasnt been attracting the top-tier candidates to the candidate pool, citing an article from the American Association of University Professors which attributes short-lived presidencies to inadequate searches.

Let us know what you think...

Jeff Hunt, an attorney with Parr Brown Gee & Loveless speaking on behalf of the Utah Media Coalition, of which Utah News Dispatch is a member, said that his main concerns about the bill include the elimination of public scrutiny of the finalists.

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I understand there are stakeholders on the search committee, but the most important stakeholder is the public, Hunt said. This current model allows the public to weigh in with information that the search committee may have overlooked.

But, the bill has bipartisan support, Wilson said. A demonstration that a change is needed, he argued, is in the last presidential search of Utah State University, which he described as a failure.

I think a lot of that was because of the public, he told the committee. We did not have the candidate pool we should have had with sitting current presidents that would apply for that position.

USU President Elizabeth Cantwell resigned early February after a two-year embattled tenure, according to The Salt Lake Tribune, to assume the presidency of Washington State University next April. This prompted a new search that, if SB282 passes, would become confidential.



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It is likely we would see more candidates apply as a result of the changes, Landward said in a statement about the process. Wed also likely attract candidates in higher-level positions who previously hesitated to apply for similar roles.

Joel Campbell, an associate professor in communication studies at Brigham Young University  a private school that wouldnt be affected by the legislation  said a bill like this wouldnt benefit the public, but would boost firms that specialize in presidential searches.

The process of posting three top candidates was a compromise established in the 90s, following a search for a University of Utah leader that was particularly murky as a board met behind closed doors to appoint Bernard Machen as president. Other states have even more transparency requirements in place, holding public interviews throughout the whole process.

Looking at the history of this will show that weve come to a compromise. We went too far, (with) secrecy the other way, Campbell said. I vehemently disagree that we are not getting good candidates, from both my academic perspective and from an open government perspective.

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Ultimately, there are some factors that should be discussed in a public forum in a state like Utah, he said, including whether theres enough attention to candidates who are women, of diverse religious affiliations, or other diverse backgrounds.

I think that one of the goals of transparency is, you get people involved in the process. So if you have an open forum with these finalists, and people know who they are, and they get to know them, I think youre going to have a better process and more people involved, Campbell said.

Contributing: Katie McKellar

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The atmosphere for Jewish students on college campuses nationwide has somewhat improved in the last year, according to the Anti-Defamation Leagues second annual Campus Antisemitism Report Card, released on Monday.



Several universities saw significant improvement in their scores compared to last years report card  which was released as antisemitism roiled campuses in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and ensuing war between Israel and Hamas.



Forty-six percent of previously graded schools improved, while only 9% declined. The ADL gave 36% of schools an A or B in this years report card, up from 23.5% in 2024. It assessed 135 schools  50 more than last year  using 30 evaluation criteria to assign letter grades from A to F.



While many campuses have improved in ways that are encouraging and commendable, Jewish students still do not feel safe or included on too many campuses, Jonathan Greenblatt, ADLs CEO, said in a statement. The progress weve seen is evidence that change is possible  all university leaders should focus on addressing these very real challenges with real action.



Despite modest improvement, Greenblatt cautioned, Every single campus should get an A, this isnt a high bar  this should be the standard. He called on all university leaders [to] focus on addressing these very real challenges with real action.



The schools that received A grades were Brandeis University, CUNY Queens College, CUNY Brooklyn College, Elon University, Florida International University, University of Alabama, University of Miami and Vanderbilt University.



Failing schools  those that received F Grades  were California Polytechnic State University, DePaul University, Evergreen State College, Haverford College, Loyola University New Orleans, Pitzer College, Pomona College, Portland State University, Scripps College, The New School, University of California Santa Barbara, University of Illinois Chicago and University of Minnesota.



Twenty percent of schools received a D, including Barnard College, where a staff member was assaulted and sent to the hospital last Wednesday by anti-Israel demonstrators who stormed the colleges main administrative building.



The ADL released its first campus report card in April 2024  and a revised version two months later.



The schools selected for the report card were among the countrys top liberal arts colleges, in addition to schools with the highest enrollment of Jewish students, according to the antisemitism watchdog group.



At the time, Shira Goodman, senior director of advocacy for the ADL, told Jewish Insider that the idea to rank universities handling of antisemitism came about prior to Oct. 7. But the attacks sped up the process, Goodman said, noting that when there are problems in the Middle East, it tends to increase antisemitism at home.



Some Jewish leaders and organizations, including Hillel, the most prominent group serving Jewish students on college campuses, which typically has a good relationship with the ADL, criticized the inaugural report card. We do not believe it is constructive or accurate to try to assign grades to schools, Adam Lehman, Hillels CEO, told JI at the time. Efforts to do so, however well-intended, produce misleading impressions regarding the actual Jewish student experience at those schools.




ROBINSON, Ill. (WCIA)  A Robinson woman was sentenced to prison last week as the second person to take a plea deal in a murder case involving a Lerna man almost two years ago.

Angela Newcomb, 60, was charged with concealment of a homicidal death and obstruction of justice in connection to the death of Ryan Waggoner in June of 2023. Illinois State Police investigating his disappearance determined that Newcombs son Lance had killed him and then asked for his mothers help in disposing of his body.

Were happy for a sentence; Champaign man gets 31 years in prison for 2021 shooting

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Court records show that Angela Newcomb reached a plea deal in December, which saw her plead guilty to the concealment charge while the obstruction of justice charge was dismissed. After hearing further evidence and victim impact statements on Feb. 26, a judge sentenced Newcomb to four years in prison.

The search for Ryan Waggoner in June of 2023 resulted in his remains being found at an address in rural Crawford County that belonged to 53-year-old Hiley Schulte. She was arrested alongside Lance and Angela Newcomb and was also charged with concealment of a homicidal death and obstruction of justice.

Schulte took a plea deal in November that was identical to Angela Newcombs  four years in prison for concealment of a homicidal death.

Lance Newcomb, meanwhile, is facing first-degree murder charges in Cumberland County because investigators believe thats where he killed Ryan Waggoner. Court records from that county show he is scheduled to appear again for a status hearing on March 25 with a jury trial set to begin on April 28.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said a man has been charged for fatally shooting another man in a business on Saturday night.

54-year-old Murwanashyaka Francois was charged with shooting and killing 45-year-old Ricardo Clemons Jr.

On March 1 at around 8:30 p.m., officers responded to the 2300 block of University Boulevard for an altercation. There, they found a man inside a business who had been shot.

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Woman killed in crash after man flees from Hyattsville police; multiple agencies investigating

He died there.

Preliminarily, detectives believe that Francois, who was a security guard at the business, shot Clemons.

He is being held at the Department of Corrections and was charged with second-degree murder and other related charges.

Anyone with information is asked to call (301) 516-2512.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
A tractor-trailer driver has been charged with negligent homicide after police said he caused the crash that killed a Fayette County man found dead in a West Virginia lake.

On Jan. 26, Kevin C. Lataille of Fayette County was found dead inside a submerged car in Cheat Lake. He was reported missing a week before when he didnt return home after his shift at Eat n Park in Morgantown.

On the day that Lataille was reported missing, police said deputies from the Monongalia County Sheriffs Office responded to a tractor-trailer jack-knifed on the Cheat Lake Bridge. According to a release, the driver, identified as Sukhjinder Singh of New York, told deputies that he lost control because of the snowy conditions outside.

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Over the next few days, police actively searched for Lataille. On Jan. 23, information from Latailles phone showed his last known location was near the Cheat Lake Bridge. Authorities said that surveillance video obtained from the area showed a large vehicle sliding on the bridge, throwing snow into the air and a separate car falling from the bridge into the lake.

Aerial drone footage later showed a vehicle submerged in Cheat Lake near the location shown in the surveillance footage. Because of the severe weather and dangerous conditions on the lake, a recovery mission was scheduled for Jan. 26. The car was recovered and Lataille was found dead inside.

Following weeks of investigation, authorities said that Singhs tractor-trailer was traveling at an unsafe speed despite the hazardous winter weather conditions. According to a release, witnesses described Singhs driving as reckless and even criminal. Investigators also said that Singhs tractor had hit another vehicle before reaching the bridge and didnt stop.

Police said that Latailles vehicle had damage to the drivers side rear, which was consistent with being hit by Singhs truck, ultimately sending Latailles car off of the bridge and into the lake.

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Investigators determined that Singhs reckless driving caused the crash that led to Latailles death.

A warrant has been issued for Singhs arrest for negligent homicide. More charges could be filed later.

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U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, attended the Republican 4th Congressional District convention in Carroll on April 23, 2022. (Photo by Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley joined an Iowa Farmers Union virtual town hall on Monday to discuss federal actions that have impacted farmers in Iowa, including freezes on grant programs and imposed foreign tariffs.

Aaron Lehman, IFU president who moderated the call, said farmers are feeling the effects of the top-down changes on their bottom lines and their ability to innovate as planting season approaches.

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Grassley, who also serves on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, said Congress needs to pass a farm bill this year to give farmers certainty.

Certainty for farmers, looking ahead five years is very important, Grassley said. And I hope that the new Congress can deliver a five-year farm bill.

He said he expects fewer hearings this year to make sure the bill gets done soon.

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Executive orders from President Donald Trump have put billions of program funding and grants on hold for farmers.

Lehman said members he has spoken with feel like the rugs being pulled out from underneath them as they wait to find out if a contract they had already signed will be honored or not.

Iowa Farmers Union President Aaron Lehman at the unions annual conference Dec. 7, 2024 in Ames. (Photo by Cami Koons/Iowa Capital Dispatch)

Grassley said the farm program freezes are set for 90 days while the expenditures are reviewed.

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Obviously if it was a total dilution, or elimination, of those monies thatd be catastrophic for conservation, Grassley said. Itd be catastrophic for the family farmers.

The senator said he is supportive of the review process, which he commended for the exposure of some government spending. He said the country needs a deep look at every penny thats being spent in the federal government.

Grassley said every administration has some abeyance of expenditures and hiring, but the second term for Trump has been a little more abrupt.

Lehman said farmers are feeling the crunch before planting season and hope the 90 days can come a little faster.

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 Im going to tell everybody at the Department of Agriculture (that) in my part of the state, people start planting corn around April 15th, April 20th, Grassley said in response.

Trade concerns

Lehman said Iowa farmers are also stressed in anticipation of increased input costs because of foreign trade issues.

Trump has tariffs in place on China and proposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada, that are set to take effect Tuesday.

Grassley said he has usually been in the majority of his fellow lawmakers as a proponent of free trade, but now he finds himself in the minority with that opinion.

 Im very disconcerted, Grassley said.  Im not going to give up speaking about the importance of trade, particularly for agriculture.

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Grassley said rather than focusing on the big countries  where maybe well never have satisfactory trading negotiations the U.S. should look to the other dozens of countries where we can make some progress.

The senator said the protectionist stance taken by the first Trump administration and then the Biden administration has turned members of Congress off from considering free trade agreements, and he hopes to change that mindset.

Grassley said already he has met with Jamieson Greer, the newly appointed U.S. trade representative, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to discuss the same topics.

He encouraged Iowans to reach out to his office and share the impact that federal policy has on their lives.

When it comes to representative government, you cant have too much communication, Grassley said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
OAKLEY, Kan. (KSNW)  A town hall meeting hosted by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) in rural northwest Kansas Saturday morning included questions and answers, shouting, applause, boos and Marshall leaving the event early.

The meeting at the Logan County Hospital in Oakley started at 9 a.m. and lasted around 40 minutes. A video shared with KSN by one of the people at the event showed that the event was contentious nearly from the start. Marshalls team later told KSN the event was sabotaged by Democrat operatives.

A large group of people crowded into the room, with several standing around the limited chairs. Some wore shirts or carried signs critical of Marshall, the Trump administration, and the Department of Governmental Efficiency (DOGE). Others wore hats or shirts representing military service. Within the first five minutes of the event, Marshall referenced the crowd.

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How the Trump, Zelenskyy meeting went off the rails

A lot of folks have traveled a long way to be here. This is really Oakleys town hall. Im going to try to focus on their questions, said Marshall.

He got a varied response. Some can be heard saying thank you, others saying he represents the whole state.

Im going to say this one time. If you all keep cutting me off, if youre rude, which youre being, Im going to leave. The people from Oakley dont deserve this, said Marshall. If youre going to keep interrupting me, were not going to do this. If you have a question, you can write them down and turn them in; my staff will get them all.

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Marshall said he wanted to take on the biggest issue of the last 24 hours, referencing what he called the blow up yesterday, a heated exchange in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump and Ukranian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

I have a deep amount of compassion and empathy from the people of Ukraine, said Marshall. He called Ukraine a bottomless pit financially, throwing good money after bad money. He defended the presidents plan, saying, My goal, I believe President Trumps goal, is to have peace in this situation and avoid World War III.

He answered several questions written on note cards from the crowd. Several times, people called out questions about Elon Musk, DOGE cuts, and the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary. Some questions got responses of Would you be quiet? from some, while others cheered.

Marshall spoke about agriculture and defended Trumps support of Kansas farmers and ranchers and said he was prioritizing passing a new Farm Bill. He spoke on cuts to USAID and changes to the Food for Peace Program, which he says is a good program and needs to be managed by the USDA. He referenced the cuts at NOAA, including to National Weather Service meteorologists, saying, Theres some opportunity to make the weather service more efficient. Marshall said he was concerned about the rates of veteran and farmer suicide.

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After about 30 minutes, some in the crowd called out more criticisms and questions, Marshall responding at one point, Do you want to have your own town hall? Later, calling it one of the rudest audiences Ive ever had, a statement that brought some to applaud and cheer.

When a woman calls out more questions to Marshall, a man can be heard saying, Youre not from Western Kansas.

Oh, I am. Oh, sir, I am, she responds.

The crowd settled down when a man, identified by High Plains Public Radio as a local, Chuck Nunn, stood up and spoke directly to the senator.

I want to thank you for coming out here, takes a lot of guts, said Nunn, who identified himself as a dying breed, a conservative Democrat. He went on to say that he appreciates the effort to cut fraud and waste in government and fully supports it. But I think the way we are going about it is so wrong because there are unintended consequences.

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I support the veterans. What youre doing right now, what the government is doing right now, as far as cutting out those jobs, a huge percent of those people  and I know that you care about the veterans  are veterans. And that is a damn shame. That is a damn shame.

Another man can be heard saying, Im not a Democrat, but Im worried about the veterans, as several people applaud.

Well, I yielded to one my elders, and I appreciate his comments, Marshall responded. I think its a great. Im not going to. We dont have time for everyone to stand up. I do got two more commitments today. I appreciate everybody making the drive out, and God bless America. Thank you.

Marshall then walked out of the room as people yelled and booed, and some called him a coward.

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DOGE structure, authority emerge as biggest DC mystery under Trump

KSN reached out to Marshalls press team to request an interview after the town hall, and we asked several questions via email. We didnt receive a response to our specific questions but instead received a statement attributed to Brent Robertson, Marshalls chief of staff:

Democrat operatives who couldnt place Oakley, Kansas on a map before today sabotaged a local town hall  even still, Senator Marshall stayed and answered every question that was asked for 45 minutes, said Robertson. Real Kansans overwhelmingly support President Trumps DOGE initiative, shrinking the size of the federal government, and firing career bureaucrats. Local Oakley citizens had no clue who these people were. Senator Marshall is to be commended for staying as long as he did.

When KSN reached out and asked for clarification on our questions, if Marshall was declining an interview, and if the staff could clarify what Kansans arent considered real in the statement, we received the same statement with one line updated: Local Oakley citizens had no clue who these people were and were embarrassed by the behavior.

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Its about time somebody takes a stand against diplomacy majors learning foreign policy in the classroom. For far too long, I have spent my undergraduate education at Miami Universitys Department of Political Science studying climate policies, immigration policies, and electoral politics in the classroom. With a heavy heart, I admit I spend most days in the classroom asking critical questions about cybersecurity, international law, international conflict, and foreign policy analysis techniques. How on earth is it legal for my professors to tell us, for instance, that the United States' use of Agent Orange was a violation of international law? That has to be anti-American.

Thanks to Senate Bill 1, students like me who have spent the past four years learning about global politics and developing critical analytical skills will never have to worry again about such inappropriate policies being discussed in the classroom. As written in SB 1, "issues such as climate policies, electoral politics, foreign policy, diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, immigration policy, marriage, or abortion" will no longer be allowed in our classrooms, as they stifle intellectual diversity.

The bill's sponsor, Jerry Cirino, says such legislation  which I see as authoritarian  is necessary so students won't be "ostracized, canceled, or have to worry about a failing grade for merely daring to have a difference of opinion with classmates or a professor."

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He's right. Forget about the fact that I've never experienced "cancellation" for authoring op-eds in class, engaging in classroom debates, or devising my own foreign policy papers. A senator who hasn't been in an undergraduate classroom in 50 years is surely the best voice to speak on the current state of youth education.

Opponents listen to testimony during an Ohio Senate Higher Education committee hearing on Senate Bill 1 on January 29, 2025. SB 1 seeks to end diversity, equity and inclusion practices and will bring other changes to higher education.

With Cirino's divine wisdom, our state will finally be able to fire professors for disagreeing with the government and ban students from ever having to learn about a perspective other than state-approved ones. Had I not had the academic freedom before SB 1 to understand that these policies mirror propaganda policies in Soviet-era Russia, perhaps I really would think like this. However, as a diplomacy major, Ive spent four years with outstanding professors who challenged me to think beyond my bubble and consider the importance of debate in producing innovative policies.

Ive attended programs like Miami Universitys JANUS Forum, which brings two scholars of opposing viewpoints to debate political issues on campus. I've assistant-taught a public civics summer program, Student Citizens, which teaches Ohio students that freedom of speech is a fundamental right of all U.S. citizens. Does Cirino know freedom of speech applies to professors, too? Because I have been privileged to have professors who helped me explore the history of Soviet censorship, Eastern European populist rhetoric, and other "controversial topics,: I know enough political history to recognize exactly what SB 1 is doing.

This bill co-opts the language of free speech to only permit state-censored topics on college campuses. Eliminating a professor's ability to talk about immigration policy doesn't make our universities free  it restricts students from learning valuable scholarship and shuts us down from potential career futures in those sectors. Cirinos solution to ending a perceived cancel culture on college campuses is to shut down all avenues of disagreement altogether, but debate is how we learn.

Committee Chairperson Kristina D. Roegner during an Ohio Senate Higher Education committee hearing on Senate Bill 1 on January 29, 2025. SB 1 seeks to end diversity, equity and inclusion practices and will bring other changes to higher education.

Lawmakers should not be afraid that Ohio students may learn things that make them uncomfortable. Political science classrooms are full of uncomfortable questions because politics itself is uncomfortable.

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Is it valid within international law to target critical infrastructure with a cybersecurity attack? Would U.N. peacekeeper involvement help domestic unrest in Haiti? Questions my professors ask us about current events encourage Ohio students to think critically and connect our in-class learning to greater global issues. I don't care that my education is "controversial"  tough questions inspire me to be a better scholar and global citizen.

This bill wont end students curiosity about climate change or LGBTQ history. Instead, students like me will take our tuition dollars, our labor, and our innovation elsewhere, and Ohios economy will suffer. Professors will do the same.

Reforming free speech on campus should involve more public funding for existing intellectual diversity events or recruiting students of intellectually diverse backgrounds, not censoring syllabi. The Senate has already failed us by passing a bill countless students testified against, but the House has a chance to stop this. Call your representative and tell them to vote "NO" to SB 1.

Meredith Perkins

Meredith Perkins is a senior at Miami University double-majoring in Diplomacy and English. She is a former newsroom intern on the editorial page team at the Enquirer.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Senate Bill 1 shuts down avenues of debate on Ohio college campuses
A judiciary amendments bill sponsored by Senate Majority Whip Chris Wilson, R-Logan, passed the Senate judiciary committee on Monday morning, bringing it one step closer to becoming law.

The bill has passed every committee so far, but the votes have not been unanimous, as it is facing opposition from Democratic lawmakers.

SB296 would change the nomination process for Utahs Supreme Court Justice, mirroring the process used by the United States Supreme Court to appoint its head justice.

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When a vacancy occurs for the U.S. Supreme Court chief justice, the president is responsible for nominating replacement, then it goes to the Senates confirmation process to be either confirmed or rejected. Involving the executive and legislative branches ensures that the system of checks and balances is utilized as our Founding Fathers intended, Wilson said during his bill presentation.

Under Utah law, the five court justices appoint the chief justice. Chief Justice Matthew B. Durrant has held the position for the past 13 years.

By applying the same process to the appointment of the chief justice of the Utah Supreme Court. Where the governor appoints (and) the Senate confirms, we establish a deliberate process that enhances transparency with citizen input during our confirmation hearing, Wilson added. Our state will preserve the system of checks and balances.

The bill passed 7-2, with Salt Lake City Democratic Rep. Grant Amjad Miller and Verona Mauga opposing it.

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Though he opposed it, Miller did say it was not outside the confines of the legislative constitutional power. It would just change the function of the judicial branch.

I think that there is a lot of merit in allowing individuals that are part of an organization to govern and administer their own hierarchy, he said. In the political realm of the legislature, our own caucuses determine our own leadership. And I suppose we could put it up to the governor to determine our leaders of our caucuses. That would shake things up in an interesting way, that would certainly be political.

In my philosophy, the less sort of interplay of politics that we have with the judiciary the better.

Senate joint resolution bill passes committee

An almost entirely unanimous bill throughout its legislative journey, SJR3 aims to dissolve Salt Lake Citys county justice court. Its sponsor, Senate Majority Leader Kirk Cullimore, R-Draper, stated that the court has experienced a diminishing number of cases in recent years. Last year, a bill further reduced the courts caseload by transferring cases to other city courts.

A veteran stands before Judge Robert Faust at Veterans Justice Court in Salt Lake City, Thursday, June 16, 2011. | Jeffrey D. Allred

Cullimore noted that this bill was made at the countys request.

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The bill passed 8-0 during the House Judiciary committee meeting on Monday morning.

Still Michael Drexel, the assistant state court administrator at the Administrative Office of the Courts, cautioned that, If Salt Lake County Justice Court closes, we will have the largest county in the state of Utah in the same situation that we have in Cache County. ... Every time a municipality wants to close their justice court in the absence of an inter-local agreement  which nobody is obligated to enter into  the state district courts become the catch all for all of those traffic cases, small claims cases, things that will further congest the calendars that are already very busy for district court judges dealing with the highest level questions in the trial courts.

He further warned that if legislators dont find a structural solution to the issue at hand, they will end up overburdening district courts. Estimating that if justice courts were to shut down over time, district courts would have to take on the equivalent workload of 23 additional judges.
Two Senate Democrats are expressing regret that they voted to confirm their former colleague Marco Rubio to become secretary of State in the Trump administration.

Sens. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) both said they regretted backing Rubio while appearing for interviews on the Sunday shows.

Murphy told CNNs State of the Union it was a mistake that he voted for Rubio.

I think a lot of us thought that Marco Rubio was going to stand up to Donald Trump on issues like this, Murphy said.

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I did vote for Senator Rubio to be secretary of State, Van Hollen said on Fox News Sunday.

I regret that, though, because, as a member of the Senate, Secretary Rubio was somebody who stood up for American values and American principles.

Rubio was confirmed unanimously by the Senate just hours after President Trump was sworn into office in January, becoming the presidents first confirmed Cabinet secretary. The son of Cuban immigrants, hes the first Latino American to be secretary of State.

The former GOP senator-turned U.S. diplomat has drawn Democrats ire recently after he and other Trump administration members met last month with Russian officials about ending the war without Ukrainian officials present.

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Rubio also praised Trumps handling of his fiery Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday, which Democrats and some Republicans have panned. He called for Zelensky to apologize to Trump following the blowup and cast doubt if the Ukrainian leader actually wanted to achieve peace.

Van Hollen said Sunday he understands Rubio is following Trumps lead on foreign policy, but argued the early moves are a stark contrast to views he put forward in the Senate.

He acknowledged that Russia was the aggressor against Ukraine. He realized that it wasnt Zelensky who was the dictator, Van Hollen said on Fox.

And now, hes simply taking his directions at the State Department from Elon Musk and essentially parroting the presidents position.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) criticized Russian President Vladimir Putins track record of killing his perceived enemies on Monday, coming as President Trump and his Cabinet studiously avoid criticizing the Russian leader as they pursue peace talks.

Putin routinely throws people who disagree with him out of windows or blows up the planes they are in. He has not just invaded Ukraine. He is killing anyone who disagrees with him, Cassidy wrote on the social platform X.

A number of Putins most high-profile political foes have ended up dead, including opposition leader Alexey Navalny, who died in prison last year, and Yevgeny Prigozhin, who died in a plane crash weeks after leading an attempted rebellion in 2023.

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Last Tuesday, several Republican senators, including Cassidy and Senate Majority Leader John Thune (S.D.), said that Russia is solely to blame for the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war.

Russias clearly the aggressor, Cassidy said.

Thats not the message coming from the White House in recent days, following a hostile meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. Trump previously blamed Zelensky for Russias invasion, and on Friday said the Ukrainian leader is not ready for peace.

The Louisiana Republican last week responded to the U.S. vote against a U.N. resolution condemning Russias aggression by citing a quote from the military tribunal that oversaw the 1946 Nuremberg trials, which prosecuted Nazi war crimes.

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To initiate a war of aggression, therefore, is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole, read the quote, as shared by Cassidy on X.

Cassidys Monday morning comments come in the wake of Zelenskys high-profile trip to Washington, which descended into acrimony before the Ukrainian leader could sign a mineral rights deal with Trump.

Trump has been widely criticized by Democrats for turning against Zelensky as he seeks to warm relations with Putin. The president has also riled former advisers and officials, with his former national security adviser, H.R. McMaster, saying the president is being played by Putin, as had past presidents.

Trump issued an angry response to McMaster on Monday.

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We should spend less time worrying about Putin, Trump wrote on Truth Social.

H.R. MCMASTER IS A WEAK AND TOTALLY INEFFECTIVE LOSER! he added.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Editors Note: This article was corrected to reflect that the senior USAID official is on administrative leave.

(NewsNation)  Nicholas Enrich, acting assistant administrator for the U.S. Agency for International Development, has been put on leave after sending a memo about the agencys failure to implement lifesaving humanitarian assistance.

Two USAID sources told NewsNation that Enrich, in a six-page letter to the entire agency, said Secretary of State Marco Rubio tried to unfreeze several pools of funding that he found to be critical aid. Rubio, on Jan. 28, issued a temporary waiver to the pause on foreign assistance referenced in Trumps executive order on Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid, the memo said.

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Second email to federal workers comes with caveat

However, Enrich wrote, Rubio was overruled and ran into bureaucratic hurdles. Political leadership at USAID, the State Department and the Department of Government Efficiency created obstacles to prevent implementation of his waiver, the memo said.

The sources said Enrich was placed on leave shortly after the document was sent out. Sources said they found the timing of this troubling and not coincidental. The prevailing feeling within USAID, the sources said, is that Enrich was let go as retribution.

U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, said in a statement that the media reports hes read about what happened confirm our worst fears: the illegal and systematic dismantling of USAID will cause real suffering and deaths that are entirely preventable.

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Instead of addressing the issues outlined by acting assistant administrator for Global Health Nicholas Enrich, the State Department has silenced and sidelined him. Its completely inappropriate and wrong, Schatz wrote.

USAID funding cut

Notices were sent out en masse last week stating that over 90% of USAIDs contracts for humanitarian and development work around the world were being terminated, per an internal memo obtained by The Associated Press. The Trump administration has outlined plans to cut some $60 billion in funding.

Projects that were closed, according to the AP, include treating tens of thousands of malnourished children in Congo, food assistance in Ethiopia to more than 1 million people and a program distributing bed nets and medication to prevent malaria in Senegal.

Claims about USAID funding are spreading online. Many are not based on facts

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USAID staffers were told last week that Trump administration officials would be firing 1,600 employees and placing all but a fraction of employees on administrative leave, NewsNation partner The Hill reported.

On Wednesday, USAID employees were given 15 minutes to collect their belongings from their offices.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
A top U.S. International Agency for Development (USAID) official has been put on leave after he released a memo that slammed the Trump administrations moves to cut aid and said they will cause preventable death.

USAID has been heavily targeted by the second Trump administration. Nearly all foreign aid spending from the agency was cut, sending the global health community into chaos, with thousands of humanitarian aid workers losing their jobs.

Nick Enrich, the USAID official, said in a memo to his colleagues that the agency has been unable to implement lifesaving humanitarian assistance after Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a pause on aid, NBC News reported.

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This will no doubt results in preventable death, destabilization, and threats to national security on a massive scale, Enrich said in the memo.

Rubio issued a waiver in late January exempting life-saving humanitarian assistance from the foreign aid freeze, but those working on the ground say crucial operations are still ground to a halt.

Enrich sent the memo to staff Friday in his capacity as USAID Global Health acting assistant administrator.

He criticized the Trump administration and Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which have slashed thousands of jobs and essential programs at various agencies including USAID.

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Enrich argued DOGE has created intentional and/or unintentional obstacles that have wholly prevented implementation.

The Trump administration and State Department said a line-item review of USAIDs grants has been completed, with Rubio making a final decision on whether to retain or terminate projects.

Enrich said 72 initiatives that include lifesaving assistance have not been approved for funding, NBC reported.

The number of deaths attributable to the loss of USAID funding and support is not known at this time, he wrote.

A source confirmed to NBC that Enrich was placed on administrative leave Sunday, two days after sending the memo.

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Working with this incredible group of experts and professionals to improve global health was the most rewarding thing I have ever had the chance to do, he wrote in a farewell email, according to NBC.

The Hill has reached out to the State Department for comment.

Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) highlighted Enrichs statement in one of his own. As the lead Democrat on the Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, Schatz said it was inappropriate to place Enrich on leave and said the public deserves real action from the State Department to prove why the aid was cut.

These new details confirm our worst fears: the illegal and systematic dismantling of USAID will cause real suffering and deaths that are entirely preventable, Schatzs statement said. Instead of addressing the issues outlined by Acting Assistant Administrator for Global Health Nicholas Enrich, the State Department has silenced and sidelined him.

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Updated: 1:15 p.m.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Officials are investigating after a fire was seemingly intentionally set at several Tesla charging stations in Littleton on Monday.

Littleton firefighters arrived to the Tesla Supercharger on Consitution Avenue around 1:00 a.m. to find that seven Tesla car chargers were on fire.

Firefighters needed to wait for the Littleton Electric Light Department to disconnect the power supply prior to extinguishing the fire.

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The Massachusetts State Fire Marshals office says an initial investigation determined the fire was likely intentionally set.

Nearby buildings were never at risk, Littleton Fire Chief Stelle McCurdy told Boston 25 News.

A Boston 25 News photographer found the torched and charred remnants of the charging stations surrounded by yellow caution tape Monday afternoon.

No arrests have been announced.

Anyone with information regarding the fire is asked to share it with the Arson Watch Reward Program Hotline at 1-800-682-9229.

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This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Five people were injured after heavy turbulence battered a United Airlines plane that was then diverted to a regional airport in Texas.

The SkyWest flight, operating as United Express, left Springfield, Missouri, and was due to land in Houston, Texas, when it was forced to touch down in Waco, 160 miles north of its intended destination.

At least 5 passengers on a @united airlines flight were taken to the hospital Sunday night, following severe turbulence. Multiple commercial planes were diverted to #waco because of strong storms across parts of #texas and included @americanair flights. #aviation #weather pic.twitter.com/DihIAoNZc8  Casey Stegall (@caseystegall) March 3, 2025

A storm over the Dallas-Fort Worth area forced the plane, a Bombardier CRJ200, to touch down at Waco Regional Airport around 6:30 p.m. local time (7:30 p.m. Eastern) on Sunday. Emergency services whisked five of the 28 passengers to a hospital with unspecified injuries.

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FlightAware states that the flight departed again early Monday morning and landed at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston at about 1:45 a.m. local time (2:45 a.m. Eastern).

The Waco Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management were at the scene, and SkyWest Airlines said in a statement that medical personnel were waiting on the tarmac in Waco.

SkyWest flight 5690, operating as United Express from Springfield, MO to Houston, landed safely at Waco Regional Airport after experiencing turbulence. Medical personnel met and evaluated passengers, and five passengers were transported to the hospital. SkyWest and United are making sure the injured customers get the care they need and are working to line up new transportation options for everyone on this flight, the statement said.

Flight 5690 was one of three that diverted to the airport in central Texas. Two American Airlines flights that were heading to Dallas Fort Worth International Airport were re-routed because of the storms. No injuries were reported on either of those flights.

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Due to storms at DFW, two flights briefly diverted to Waco and later re-departed, the airline told CNN in a brief statement.

The news comes after a string of deadly incidents in American aviation, including the January collision between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines jet near Ronald Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people across both aircrafts. Days later, a small medical jet crashed near a shopping mall in northeast Philadelphia. Seven people were killed and dozens were injured.

In early February a small passenger plane went missing and was later found to have crashed in Alaska. All on boardnine passengers and the pilotdied.

In mid-February, a Delta flight flipped upside down upon landing at Toronto Pearson International Airport after leaving Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Miraculously, all 80 people on board survived.
A three-day siege of severe thunderstorms and high winds downed trees, knocked out power and spawned tornadoes from the Plains to the Southeast and mid-Atlantic states in early March 2025.

The northern aspect of this intense, expansive storm system was in the form of a blizzard in the Northern Plains and upper Midwest. For more on that, we have a winter storm recap here.

Over 500 reports of severe thunderstorm damage, high winds, hail and reported tornadoes were received by NOAA's Storm Prediction Center from the night of March 3 through March 5. That included 30 confirmed tornadoes from Oklahoma and Texas to North Carolina and southeast Virginia.

march 3-5 2025 severe outbreak recap south winds tornadoes

Before sunrise on March 4, a line of severe storms produced damage across parts of eastern and southern Oklahoma into northern Texas. An EF1 tornado tore through parts of Ada, Oklahoma. Another EF1 tornado touched down in Pontotoc County, Oklahoma, and heavily damaged the Union Valley volunteer fire station.

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In the Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex, a large paint plant was damaged in the suburb of Lewisville by winds estimated at 75 mph. Winds estimated at 105 mph damaged homes and trees in Haltom City, and 90 mph straight line winds collapsed a warehouse's cinder block wall and bend power poles in Richland Hills. A brief EF1 tornado produced damage over a few city blocks in Irving.

(Further beef up your forecast with our detailed, hour-by-hour breakdown for the next 8 days  only available on our Premium Pro experience.)

The only strong tornado of the event was an EF2 twister in Wayne County, Mississippi, which injured four in two separate incidents of manufactured homes either destroyed or rolled in what was the county's second strong tornado in a span of just 20 days.

Strong winds also occurred well ahead (to the east) of and also well behind (to the west and north of) the line of severe thunderstorms. Over 1,300 reports of high wind gusts and another 335 reports of wind damage not from thunderstorms were received by the National Weather Service over 72 hours from March 4 through 6 in the U.S.

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The strongest gusts were 96 mph at the Cove Mountain Wind Tower in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and 93 mph near Hugoton, Kansas.

Wind damage was reported in Lubbock, Texas, a roof was blown off a home in Dickens, about 60 miles east of Lubbock, and 84 mph winds blew trees onto homes in Garden City, Kansas.

Perhaps most surreal was a plume of lofted dust from western Texas and eastern New Mexico that surged into Dallas-Ft. Worth, Waco, even College Station, Texas less than 12 hours after severe thunderstorms moved through on March 4.

Jonathan Erdman is a senior meteorologist at weather.com and has been covering national and international weather since 1996. Extreme and bizarre weather are his favorite topics. Reach out to him on X (formerly Twitter), Threads, Facebook and Bluesky.
Middletown police are issuing a warning to parents as a dangerous scam targets children across the country.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Sextortion is a real and dangerous scam that is affecting students across the country, Middletown police posted on social media. In these schemes, predators manipulate, threaten, and extort young people for explicit images, often demanding money or gift cards in exchange for not sharing these images with friends, family, colleges etc.

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The FBI recently released an article on identifying these scams and keeping kids safe while they are online. The FBI says scams like these have contributed to deaths by suicide.

TRENDING STORIES:

Middletown police highlight the importance of talking to kids about potential scams.

Let them know if they become a victim to go to a parent, guardian, trusted adult or the police, Middletown polices post said.

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According to the FBI, sextortion cases involving children and teens are increasing.

Sextortion can happen on any site where people meet and communicate, the FBI says. Often, the person may already claim to have a revealing photo of the child, and threaten to share it if they do not send more pictures, according to the FBI.

The FBI says the victim of sextortion often thinks they are talking with someone their own age who may want a relationship or with someone who can offer something of value.

Once the criminals have videos or pictures, they threaten to publish the content or threaten violence against the victim in order to get them to send more pictures, money or gift cards, the FBI says. According to the FBI, the criminal will often release the photos either way.

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The shame, fear, and confusion children feel when they are caught in this cycle often prevents them from asking for help or reporting the abuse, the article from the FBI says. Caregivers and young people should understand how the crime occurs and openly discuss online safety.

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SANTA FE, N.M. (KRQE)  Santa Fe police are asking the public for help in identifying three suspects in a downtown robbery and stabbing. According to police, officers responded to a stabbing early Sunday morning just west of the plaza.

2 men charged in Santa Fe street race

Officers arrived to find a 39-year-old victim who had been stabbed. Police say the video shows the victim meeting three men at a nearby bar and later getting attacked by them.

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Police say the person identified as being armed with a knife at the time of the attack was seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, tan pants, and red and black shoes. The second suspect was seen wearing an NBA-style team jersey over a black long-sleeve shirt with either a number 21 or 81, dark sunglasses, and what appeared to be light-colored jeans. The third suspect was seen wearing a dark-colored shirt, black baseball cap, green oversized jacket, and dark-colored pants.

Police say the victim was transported to the hospital and is expected to recover. Police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
The once-obscure Office of Personnel Management, essentially the human resources department of the federal government, is now ground zero for Elon Musk and President Donald Trumps efforts to slash bureaucracy and deconstruct vast portions of the administrative state.

Current and former OPM employees describe an agency thats been taken over by a shadow operation of political appointees affiliated with Musks Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE.

Isolated on a secure floor inside the agencys Washington headquarters, DOGE personnel, many with deep ties to Musk and his companies, are now effectively in charge of OPM, issuing government-wide directives that are seen as blueprints for carrying out the administrations vision to shrink the government.

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That has left career employees sidelined, feeling blindsided and scapegoated.

The federal workers at OPM dont even know whats going on, and we are getting blamed for allowing Elon Musk and DOGE into OPM, a recently departed OPM official told CNN. Its very well known within the agency that its the shadow OPM, not the career employees pushing the buttons.

DOGE team members arrived at OPM on Inauguration Day.

Soon after, sources said career staff and executives lost administrative authority over various systems and platforms related to or tied directly to personnel data for millions of federal workers.

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It kept some people from doing the jobs they were hired for, a current OPM employee told CNN. That person said information technology specialists at OPM now spend their workday answering DOGE and political appointees questions on how systems work instead of being allowed to do their jobs.

DOGE team members have secluded themselves on the fifth-floor directors suite, which sources now say is guarded by tight security with strict limits on who can enter.

The former employee who spoke to CNN described a security guard seated outside of the directors office who keeps a printed paper with headshots of career employees who are approved to enter.

Two current OPM employees who, like others, agreed to speak with CNN under the condition their names not be published over fear of retribution for speaking to the media, said theyve seen an increased security presence at the agency since the start of the Trump administration, and especially when Musk is in the building.

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OPM did not respond to CNNs request for comment.

Corrupted by DOGE

Career employees at OPM who used to communicate policy and guidelines to federal agencies now watch powerlessly as OPM fires off directives to the more than 2 million federal workers.

OPM previously did not send mass emails to the federal workforce  it only communicated guidance to agencies and their leadership.

But now OPM communicates directly with all federal workers from HR@OPM.gov, an email address set up by DOGE that career staffers are unable to access, sources told CNN.

The first major news delivered to the entire federal workforce from HR@OPM.gov was the January 28 announcement of governments deferred resignation program. The email, known among government employees as The Fork in the Road, offered workers the chance to remain on the payroll through September if they agreed to resign.

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Shernice Mundell, an OPM employee and member of the American Federation of Government Employees who was terminated in February due to her probationary status, told CNN she first heard about that email on the news. Two other OPM sources said the human resources staff at the agency didnt know anything about The Fork in the Road until they started getting inquiries from federal workers.

Mundell was one of thousands of probationary employees fired last month under a directive from the Trump administration. A federal judge in California last week found those mass firings were likely unlawful, saying OPM does not have any authority whatsoever, under any statute in the history of the universe to hire or fire any employees other than its own.

More recently, federal workers received an email from HR@OPM.gov asking them to list five things they accomplished at work in the past week. But two OPM sources said the emails are not coming from actual agency employees.

Rob Shriver, who served as OPMs acting director under the Biden administration, told CNN hes been in constant touch with employees at OPM, who he said are pained by the loss of trust by the federal workforce.

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The entire organization has been corrupted by DOGE, said Shriver, a senior adviser at the legal advocacy group Democracy Forward. Its a terrible spot for the OPM career folks to be in. They are not able to shape any of the messaging thats coming out. In talking to several of them, theyre not being consulted, or theyre not being asked if they think this is something that should be done, if its legal. They have absolutely no ability to weigh in with any of their expertise.

Shriver now leads a program defending government employees in the face of the Trump administrations downsizing of the workforce.

OPM has become DOGEs primary messenger for directing federal agencies on how to shrink their workforces, which agency offices to shutter and which contracts to cancel.

Its also keeping a tight hold on even the more mundane information coming out of the agency.

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Making a simple change on the OPM website to put out information on a weather alert, like all Washington facilities are closed, we used to be able to make that change, one of the current OPM employees said. Now it has to go through the fifth floor before that change can even be made.

OPM as a DOGE testing ground

Gaining quick access and control to the data and computer systems of OPM was fundamental to DOGEs ability to infiltrate key Washington nerve centers. Political appointees and advisers connected to Musk or major tech firms now sit in top leadership positions across agencies that comprise the federal governments personnel, technology, property and acquisition operations.

Sources said OPM is viewed as a testing ground for DOGEs government-wide tactics  a sentiment that was laid out by top DOGE leaders during their first meeting with career staff the day after the inauguration.

OPM is looked at as a model. The goal is to reduce the footprint of the federal workforce, Anthony Armstrong, a senior adviser at OPM and a banker who helped Musk acquire Twitter, told employees, according to the recently departed employee who was in the meeting.

Protesters chant against the firings of thousands of federal workers by President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency in New York on February 19, 2025. - Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu/Getty Images

In another meeting 10 days later, Brian Bjelde, a longtime engineer at Musks SpaceX and now another top adviser at OPM, told career employees there would be massive restructuring across the federal workforce, according to that same person, who was also in that meeting.

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Bjelde instructed agency leaders to draft a plan for a 70% cut in their respective workforces. OPM is leading all agencies doing this exercise, Bjelde said, according to the person in the meeting.

One OPM source told CNN the proposed cuts were so deep that some of the managers asked to draft plans had to include their own jobs in the cuts.

And now, just one month later, OPM has instructed all agencies to draw up similar plans for large-scale layoffs, issuing a joint memo with the Office of Management and Budget mapping out how agency leaders should conduct large-scale terminations.

The Social Security Administration said it aims to cut about 7,000 jobs, roughly 12% of its staff. Managers at the General Services Administration have been asked to put together proposals for 50% reductions in the organization, according to a source with knowledge of the matter.

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Current and recently departed OPM employees describe the agencys workforce as just as demoralized and confused as many other government workers.

As for Mundell, she is updating her resume and has filed for unemployment in DC. She said because she was abruptly shut out of the government IT system when she was fired, she never got to download the documents needed to file for unemployment, including her last six paystubs.

Ive never been fired from a job before, said Mundell. My faith is saying God is going to get me through it. Some days Im optimistic, some days Im not.

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JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Aala shelter resident Charlotte Shorty  Marquez shows her housing unit. The new Aala shelter, also known as Kauhale Respite, has already reunited 14 local homeless people with their families and returned another six to the mainland.

1 /3 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Aala shelter resident Charlotte Shorty  Marquez shows her housing unit. The new Aala shelter, also known as Kauhale Respite, has already reunited 14 local homeless people with their families and returned another six to the mainland.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Shelter manager Janet Nguyen, left, and Dr. Michael Dukelow talk with resident Shorty.

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2 /3 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Shelter manager Janet Nguyen, left, and Dr. Michael Dukelow talk with resident Shorty.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Penny, the clinic poocher,  stands outside ready to greet residents and guests with Dr. Michael Dukelow, top right, and shelter manager Janet Nguyen.

3 /3 JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Penny, the clinic poocher,  stands outside ready to greet residents and guests with Dr. Michael Dukelow, top right, and shelter manager Janet Nguyen.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Aala shelter resident Charlotte Shorty  Marquez shows her housing unit. The new Aala shelter, also known as Kauhale Respite, has already reunited 14 local homeless people with their families and returned another six to the mainland.

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JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Shelter manager Janet Nguyen, left, and Dr. Michael Dukelow talk with resident Shorty.

JAMM AQUINO / JAQUINO @STARADVERTISER.COM Penny, the clinic poocher,  stands outside ready to greet residents and guests with Dr. Michael Dukelow, top right, and shelter manager Janet Nguyen.

The new Aala medical respite shelter on North King Street has taken in and treated some of Oahus oldest and most seriously ill homeless patients and gotten several lives pointed in positive directions so that 14 have been reunited with their-once estranged families, mostly on Oahu, and another six have gone back to the mainland in barely nine months since opening.

As of last week 147 people had been treated at the 62-bed shelter comprising tiny-home kauhale structures and 30 indoor treatment beds inside the former First Hawaiian Bank branch.

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The homeless people who have been treated so far include :Kupuna in their 70s and 80s with Alzheimers and dementia who are particularly vulnerable to theft and violence while sleeping on the street.People who have suffered multiple heart attacks and strokes.Many with previously undiagnosed and untreated diabetes whose glucose levels uncontrollably spiked to dangerously high levels that put their lives at risk.

Don 't miss out on what 's happening !

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Email 28141 Sign Up By clicking to sign up, you agree to Star-Advertiser 's and Google 's and. This form is protected by reCAPTCHA.Those who needed weekly dialysis treatments but did not receive them until they checked into the shelter.Many who arrived with sometimes lifelong addictions to meth, like Dante Ladines, 57, who didnt care whether he lived or died for much of his time on the street.

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Ladines grew up in Kalihi and Ewa Beach and began hanging out with older kids who started beating him up as a fifth grader.

He never graduated from Campbell High School and began working in construction and as a cook while on his way to years of addiction to meth that sent him in and out of Oahus jails and prisons for using and dealing that cost Ladines any relationship with his six children and other family on Oahu.

Asked where he served his time, Ladines told the Honolulu Star-Advertiser while sitting at a picnic table on the shelters grounds, I was in all of them. Once I whack meth, I never turned back.

He suffered strokes and heart attacks but refused to stop using.

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I never care about nothing,  Ladines said. I gave up.

After his third stroke, Ladines could barely walk and checked himself into the citys HONU pop-up emergency homeless shelter when it set up in Kapolei.

But Ladines did not receive the level of health care he needed until HONU social workers referred him to the new Aala medical respite shelter.

He was more appropriate for here,  said the shelters project manager, Janet Nguyen, whos also a nurse.

Ladines was diagnosed with high cholesterol and heart disease and also was prescribed mood stabilization medications that began to change his attitude.

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But he kept returning to the Aala shelter clearly high, which further endangered his health and set a bad example for other patients working to address their own substance abuse addictions, Nguyen said.

He came to us barely walking,  Nguyen said. When his health got better, he started to use, and I gave him an ultimatum. I told him, Youve got heart failure. Youre either choosing life or death.

Ladines reluctantly agreed to outpatient substance abuse treatment at Hina Mauka and has been attending sessions over the past six weeks.

Even though Ladines acknowledged he had little initial interest in getting clean, now he looks back, and said, It was a blessing in disguise. Im thriving. Im not depressed. Im trying to prove that Im not that person anymore.

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His health and sobriety are still fragile, and Ladines does not see himself reconciling with his family anytime soon.

But hes the happiest hes been in years, and, Ladines said, Now I can trust somebody.

Reuniting the first 20 homeless people with their families has taken as little as two months and as long as three, said Dr. Scott Miscovich, whose Premier Medical Group Hawaii runs the Aala shelter.

It begins when patients check in and give their medical backgrounds, along with family contacts.

Shelter staff then contact families to let them know they have their estranged love one and are addressing their issues, which typically include substance abuse and mental health problems that often led them to steal from their families and.sometimes turn violent.

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Families are then invited to Aala to see firsthand how their homeless family members are progressing after they begin addressing issues that include post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder through medications, along with on-site Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous meetings and outpatient treatment for people like Ladines.

Then the homeless patient can visit their families at home to test their new family dynamic.

Its all done by phone for family members on the mainland.

So far, none of the 20 patients welcomed back by their families have returned, Miscovich said.

The joint state and city shelter represents a new approach to getting homeless people permanently off the street by treating serious health conditions and addressing some of the underlying reasons they became homeless, Miscovich said.

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Unless we do this, the public needs to understand that homelessness isnt going away,  Miscovich said. Unless we start providing care for these people with real mental issues, you will not see changes.  All of them have been assaulted. When I say all, its 100 %, and its over and over and overlet alone the sexual assault that happens to women. These people are getting the hell beat out of them. Its just so incomprehensible.

Along the way, doctors and nurses at the Aala shelter have saved the lives of people who would have died on the street, like Ladines, who now see better futures for themselves, Miscovich said.

At the same time, they have kept dozens of homeless people out of hospital emergency rooms they disproportionately use, tying up costly ambulance and hospital resources.

Some of the initial solutions to problems have been relatively easy, such as outfitting Apple AirTags on kupuna with dementia and Alzheimers to track them down when they wander off, Miscovich said.

But longer-term answers are much more complicated, including finding long-term care beds that specialize in dementia and Alzheimers, along with other long-term beds for patients who rely on wheelchairs.

Some forget to take their meds,  Miscovich said. They need to go into skilled nursing care facilities because I said, No more homeless discharged to the street.

Patients can stay at the Aala shelter indefinitely, but its often full and cannot accommodate new arrivals.

And having to turn away patients in need worries Miscovich because of what it means for them to remain on the street with untreated health issues.

This is beyond a Third World country, to think this is happening in the United States,  he said. To hear their stories is just really, really something else.

Take Charlotte Shorty  Marquez, 46.

She started life homeless when she was born on the streets of Chinatown to a mother who abandoned her.

Her father then took her in, but died of alcoholism when Marquez was just 7, Marquez said.

She never graduated high school and was in and out of foster care and jails for assault and meth.

Finally, Marquez said, a judge told her in 2024 :

Dont come back to Waianae because youre nothing but trouble. You violent. You got warrants.

She also got kicked out of the Institute for Human Serv ices shelter and was back on the street using meth.

Then-state Homeless Coordinator John Mizuno referred Marquez to the new Aala shelter before he became a special adviser to Gov. Josh Green focusing on homeless policies and programs.

Marquez checked in Sept. 24 and now sees a different future.

Nguyen said Marquez has been clean and sober ever since and even leads Narcotics Anonymous meetings with other patients and has become a role model at the shelter.

Marquez also receives treatment for schizophrenia, depression, heart failure, sleep apnea and her meth addiction after using it all my life,  Marquez said.

Now she lives in a tiny home on the shelter grounds and works with Aala shelter case managers on her next step to move into transitional housing on her way to what Marquez and Nguyen hope will be a more stable, sober future.

So far, after just seven months, Marquez said all the support has her suddenly dreaming of a life she never thought possible.

Its working for me,  she said. Before, all I know is the streets and my drugs.

Miscovich hopes the early success of the Aala shelters focus on serious health and underlying reasons people end up chronically homeless leads to a new approach for how Hawaii addresses homelessness.

The concept already has the support of Mayor Rick Blangiardi and Green, Americas only sitting governor whos also a medical doctor, who has provided wound care for homeless people he encounters on the street.

The Aala shelter has a physician on-site 24 hours a day, along with psychiatric technicians from the State Hospital, nurses and security that includes off-duty and retired Honolulu police officers and state sheriffs deputies trained in conflict resolution, Miscovich said.

Its operational costs have been budgeted at $4 million annuallywhich Miscovich called a relative bargain compared with the high cost of frequent emergency visits that end with injured or ill homeless people back on the street.

He called the Aala shelter unlike any other in Hawaii and the first of its kind toward permanent solutions to ending chronic homelessness.

No one does anything like this,  Miscovich said. We need more medical respites, and its just self-evident to everyone that we need another facility ASAP.
In late January, the Greek shipping company Eurobulk pleaded guilty to illegally discharging oily bilge water from one of its vessels and was met with a massive fine and probation.

What happened?

As KRIS 6 News reported, the company admitted to violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and falsifying records, according to U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. A U.S. District judge in Texas ordered Eurobulk to pay a $1.125 million criminal fine and serve four years' probation for violating the APPS during a port call in Corpus Christi.

"It is crucial that we strive to eliminate threats to our waters through holding overseas corporations accountable," Ganjei told gCaptain.

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The case involved the Good Heart, a Liberia-flagged vessel operated by Eurobulk, from which crew members made illegal oily water discharges and gave false records to the U.S. Coast Guard to cover up their environmental crimes.

Court documents revealed that the Good Heart's former chief engineer, Christos Charitos, told crew members on at least two occasions to dump oily waste overboard from the ship's duct keel  a pipe that runs from the engine room and underneath cargo holds  without using the required oily water separator.

The Maritime Executive reported that Charitos pleaded guilty to the crimes in September and was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine and serve one year of probation. Eurobulk was also required to pay a $375,000 community service penalty to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

"This outcome directly reflects our dedication to holding those who violate laws designed to prevent pollution of the marine environment accountable," Rear Adm. David Barata, commander of the USCG's 8th District, told the news outlet.

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"The Coast Guard and our partners remain resolute in our mission to protect our waters, and we encourage the public to continue reporting any suspicious activities as every report is essential in our ongoing effort to preserve the health of our marine ecosystems."

Why is the shipping company's pollution concerning?

Bilge water is wastewater that collects in the lowest compartment of a ship and contains a mixture of water, grease, oil, and other pollutants. When companies dump these chemicals into oceans, they can poison or kill marine animals, damage fragile habitats such as coral reefs and seagrass beds, reduce oxygen levels, and contaminate beaches.

Bilge water dumping is common in the shipping industry, but the environmental damage it causes doesn't get much attention. According to Marine Defenders, commercial ships discharge up to 810,000 tons of oily bilge waste and fuel oil sludge into oceans annually. To put that in perspective, it's the equivalent of eight Exxon Valdez oil spills occurring every year.

So, why would shipping companies knowingly harm the ocean and wildlife? As with most things, it comes down to time and money. It's cheaper and easier to dump wastewater overboard than to follow regulations for proper treatment, and ship operators may think they won't get caught.

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However, these actions have huge environmental consequences and can also impact humans who visit beaches and eat fish.

What's being done to hold companies accountable?

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, also known as MARPOL, regulates the discharge of bilge water from ships to prevent oil pollution and requires companies to use oil filtering equipment.

Environmental nonprofits such as SkyTruth help track ocean oil pollution by employing satellite imagery and machine learning to catch polluters in the act.

Some shipping companies have started launching electric container ships and wind-powered cargo vessels to reduce pollution and operating costs, though it will take time for the industry to switch to cleaner energy sources.

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We can ensure shipping companies stay on track by reporting environmentally damaging behavior and reduce pollution locally by practicing safe maintenance habits, which can save money as well.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS)  Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaus office and the Shreveport Police Department are addressing public concerns about squatters.

In a press release on Mar. 3, the Shreveport Mayors Office discussed the state of Louisianas trespassing laws and addressed the legal limitations of law enforcement regarding squatters in Shreveport.

Per Louisiana Revised Statute 14:63, it is unlawful for an individual to enter or remain on private property without permission from the property owner or lessee. The statute also requires the lawful possessor of a home to give written or verbal notice asking the occupant to leave the property or post a sign advising that the property is privately owned and unlawful trespassing is prohibited.

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Currently, the Mayors Office does not encourage or prevent police from arresting alleged squatters. Arceneauxs office stressed that police must have probable cause to arrest a squatter on criminal trespassing charges. Thats why Arceneauxs administration is proposing changes to the citys Property Standards Code. The changes will give police probable cause for a violation without first talking to the structures owner.

The ordinance will potentially make occupying a structure with dilapidated characteristics illegal.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTALnews.com.
WASHINGTON  Congressional leaders are scrambling for an agreement on how to keep the government funded for the remainder of the fiscal year, with only two weeks to go until the shutdown deadline.

Its a drama that unfolds every year: With time running out on the government funding clock, lawmakers are poised to wait until the last minute to get some agreement passed with just minutes to spare. And it typically requires a major lift from both parties to get it across the finish line.

That makes things all the more difficult in a Republican-controlled Washington as Democrats are threatening to withhold support unless GOP leaders can assure President Donald Trump wont go rogue with the congressionally approved funds. Thats something Republicans are not willing to promise  at least not yet.

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That sets the stage for a rocky road ahead, and limited time to find a solution.

How did we get here?

Its five months into the 2025 fiscal year and Congress has failed to complete the budget. It raises the question: How did lawmakers find themselves in this position?

Nearly every year, congressional leaders have ambitious plans to pass appropriations bills ahead of the Oct. 1 deadline and have the federal budget settled by the beginning of the fiscal year. And nearly every year, that doesnt happen.

In order to pass a budget, lawmakers must pass 12 individual appropriations bills that allocate funds across the federal government. In past years, many of these bills have been combined into one massive bill called an omnibus or into smaller packages referred to as minibuses. But when House Republicans took control of the lower chamber in 2023, they vowed to do that no longer.

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Instead, they said, they would pass each appropriations bill individually. But that goal has yet to become a reality.

It reflects a trend in congressional history. In fact, lawmakers have only completed the appropriations process before the fiscal year deadline only four times in the last 40 years  a point Sen. John Curtis recently made in a Deseret News op-ed. The last time Congress managed to pass its budget on time was in 1996.

House Republicans have a plan  and it appears to have Trumps support

It appears unlikely lawmakers will have enough time to complete the 12 appropriations bills, pass them in both the House and Senate, and get them over to Trumps desk before the March 14 deadline.

As of Friday, the House has only passed five of the 12 appropriations bills and the Senate has not passed any. Instead, Republican leaders seem poised to pass another continuing resolution, extending 2024 spending levels through the end of fiscal year 2025.

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Appropriations cardinals met with House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on Tuesday to strategize on a path forward. Emerging from that meeting, Rep. Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, told reporters a CR through the end of the fiscal year was the likeliest option.

Details of that CR are not yet known. House Republican leaders could put forth a clean resolution, which would extend current government funding levels and nothing more.

However, some Republicans have suggested including provisions to codify spending cuts being made by the Department of Government Efficiency  something that would not get support from Democrats.

Republican leaderships plan to pass a full-year continuing resolution with Musks devastating DOGE cuts would give Trump new flexibility to spend funding as he sees fit, Sen. Patty Murray and Rep. Rosa DeLauro, top Democratic appropriators, said in a joint statement on Friday. While Elon Musk has been calling for a shutdown, Democrats have been working to pass bills that make sure Congress decides whether our schools or hospitals get funding  not Trump or Musk.

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Meanwhile, Trump has backed the idea of a yearlong CR to punt government spending discussions to the next fiscal year.

We are working very hard to pass a clean, temporary government funding bill (CR) to the end of September, Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Thursday. Lets get it done!

Trump has not said whether he would push for DOGE cuts to be included in the continuing resolution.

Still, Republicans seem to be backing off that idea. Johnson said on Sunday that incorporating DOGE cuts into government funding legislation would wait until the 2026 fiscal year  noting he would push for a clean CR this month instead.

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Were looking to pass a clean CR to freeze funding at current levels to make sure that the government can stay open while we begin to incorporate all these savings that were finding through the DOGE effort and these other sources of revenue, Johnson told NBC News Meet the Press.

Its not yet clear if a yearlong CR has enough votes to pass in the next two weeks. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, a top appropriator in the Senate, has indicated she would not support a continuing resolution until September.

CRs always create a lot of unintended consequences, Collins told the Washington Times.

Republicans and Democrats duel in intense blame game for government shutdown

Regardless of what is pushed through, the funding agreement will require Democratic support thanks to Republicans slim majorities in both the House and Senate. And so far, that is not guaranteed.

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While appropriators have sought to negotiate a spending deal over the last few months, both Republicans and Democrats have blamed the other for abandoning bipartisan talks in the final stretch before the deadline.

Its incredibly disappointing that Republican leadership is walking away from bipartisan negotiations to fund the government  and raising the risk of a shutdown in so doing, Murray and DeLauro said in their Friday statement.

Republican leaders view it differently.

Were pretty far apart right now, but it is not because of the Republicans, Johnson told reporters on Wednesday. Its because of the Democrats.

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Johnsons comments refer to a key demand being made by Democrats to assure that Trump allocates the funds as they are approved by Congress. Democrats have repeatedly decried attempts by the new Trump administration to freeze approved appropriations and block them from going toward federal agencies.

Republicans have balked at these demands, claiming they infringe upon Trumps authority as president to spend government funds as he pleases.

Our differences with our Democratic colleagues on some of the restrictions theyre demanding on what we consider legitimate presidential authority  were not moving on that, House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., said on Wednesday.

The disagreements and lack of a topline deal have left Republicans and Democrats at a standstill  and it has members playing a brutal game of whos to blame for a possible shutdown.
ORLANDO, Fla. (WFLA)  Passengers flying out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) over the weekend were left stranded after Silver Airways suddenly canceled all of its flights, according to a report from NBC affiliate WESH.

A statement obtained from MCOs Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Community Relations Angela Starke read:

We received notification yesterday afternoon that, effective immediately, all departing and arriving flights with Silver Airlines are canceled.

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It is unclear what was behind the sudden cancellations.

Cruise ship with 158 norovirus patients docks in Florida

The unexpected move comes just two months after the airline issued an open letter to its customers, announcing they voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Silver Airways affirmed to its customers that all flight tickets remain valid and that they remain under normal operations.

We anticipate completing this process by the first quarter of 2025, emerging stronger and ready to continue serving you with the same dedication weve upheld for over 13 years, they said in the release on Dec. 30.

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The airline added that the decision will allow them to undergo a financial restructuring they hope will strengthen the company and benefit its passengers.

WFLA.com has reached out to Silver Airways for comment.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11)  Police have issued a Silver Alert for an 80-year-old Queens resident who was last seen at around 11 p.m. on March 1.

Elizabeth Alexander has medical conditions and may be in need of medical attention, police said.

More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State

Alexander is described as 53 and around 120 pounds with black hair and brown eyes and was last seen wearing black scrubs.

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She was last seen driving near 119th Avenue and 202nd Street in Queens. Police say her vehicle is a 2011 Buick Regal with a New York license plate KVN-3927.

Anyone with information about Alexanders whereabouts is asked to contact 911 or NYPD TIPS at 1-800-577-8477.

Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).

Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
(Bloomberg) -- Singapore is probing whether Dell Technologies Inc. and Super Micro Computer Inc. servers shipped to Malaysia housed Nvidia Corp. chips barred from China, an investigation that highlights the role of middlemen in funneling high-end semiconductors.

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The countrys law minister on Monday outlined specifics of the probe after local media reported police arrested several people for their alleged roles in procuring and shipping Nvidia chips in violation of US sanctions. They stand accused of misleading server suppliers of the actual end users of the hardware, which were shipped from Singapore to Malaysia, Law Minister K Shanmugam told reporters. Authorities are now investigating if the servers, made by Dell and Super Micro, made their way to other countries, he said.

The case is casting a spotlight on Singapore-based entities role in channeling Nvidia chips to China and potentially other countries restricted by the US. The case comes weeks after Bloomberg News reported that the US was investigating whether Chinese artificial intelligence sensation DeepSeek had circumvented US chip curbs with help of third parties in Singapore.

Singapore has requested further information from Malaysia and the US to determine the final destination of the servers, Shanmugam said.

The question is whether Malaysia was a final destination or from Malaysia it went to somewhere else, which we do not know for certain at this point, he said.

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A preliminary investigation found that the chips in those servers could potentially subject the devices to US export restrictions. We assessed that the servers may contain Nvidia chips, Shanmugam said, stopping short of confirming that.

Nvidia declined to comment, while Super Micro didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. In a statement, Dell said that it maintains a strict trade compliance program and screens all sales orders through its internal screening solution, which includes due diligence related to export and trade compliance.

If a customer is not adhering to these obligations, we take swift and appropriate action, up to and including termination of our relationship, Dell said.

Separately, the Wall Street Journal reported that Chinese buyers are getting around US export controls and obtaining the latest Nvidia AI processors by routing orders through third parties in nearby countries. The newspaper cited traders of electronics gear.

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Nvidia said its looking into the issue, but maintained that trying to use such a channel wouldnt deliver fully operational systems. Anonymous traders cannot acquire, deliver, install, use and maintain Nvidias new Blackwell products in unauthorized countries, the company said in a statement.

AI data centers are among the most complex systems in the world, Nvidia said. Customers want systems with software, services, support and upgrades  none of which anonymous traders claiming to possess Blackwell systems can provide. We will continue to investigate every report of possible diversion and take appropriate action.

Nvidia relies on companies such as Dell, Super Micro and Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. to make the servers that house its coveted AI chips. Those companies then sell the servers either directly or through intermediaries to data center operators across the world.

Super Micro and Dell were already among companies scrutinized for their potential role in how Nvidia chips subject to US export controls end up in China. Nvidia asked Super Micro and Dell to audit customers in Southeast Asia to verify that they still possess the Nvidia-powered servers they bought, the Information reported in December, citing a person close to the US Department of Commerce.

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Shanmugam didnt link the case directly to DeepSeek or any Chinese buyer because the investigation is still ongoing.

He also said the case isnt tied directly to US export controls, saying the fraud investigation is an independent probe conducted by Singapore after receiving an anonymous tipoff, rather than a request from a sovereign country.

Washington has for years been trying to crack down on Chinas ability to access restricted technology via third countries, most recently by expanding semiconductor trade curbs to cover most of the world. Those latest rules  which the Trump administration is currently reviewing  establish maximum thresholds for the AI computing power than can be exported to places from Southeast Asia to the Middle East, where US officials are worried about Beijings influence.

Early signs indicate that the Trump administration will intensify those efforts. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggested that Chinese AI startup DeepSeek evaded US export controls to build its R1 model and pledged a very strong response. Trump officials are currently investigating whether DeepSeek managed to access advanced Nvidia chips via third parties in Singapore, Bloomberg has reported.

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A senior Singaporean official said last month that Nvidia chips that have been shipped to the country only accounted for less than 1% of the US giants revenue, even though the Santa Clara, California-based firm billed more than a fifth of its sales to buyers in the city state.

--With assistance from Ian King.

(Updates with company responses in seventh paragraph.)

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Nathan Kessler, tax policy adviser at Kansas Action for Children, said a Kansas Senate bill removing tips from calculations of state taxable income would lead to inequities in the workplace and have a limited impact economically. (Kansas Reflector screen capture of Legislature's YouTube channel)

TOPEKA  Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association president Adam Mills appreciated thinking behind a Kansas Senate bill exempting tips from state income taxes because it could put cash in the pocket of some food service industry employees.

Mills just didnt believe the idea went far enough to strip away tax or regulatory barriers undermining the societal value placed on work. The state should move to exempt overtime pay from income tax, he said. Kansas needed to embrace reform that helped youth to more easily join the workforce. The bill before the Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee should be amended to address the unfairness of singling out certain employees at a restaurant for the tax break, he said.

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Work is a good and decent virtue that leads to personal integrity and societal respect, Mills said. Serving and bartending is a legitimate profession. The work they do is important, but they cant do it alone. Its a total team effort to provide great food and service for our dining public.

Under Senate Bill 277 introduced by Sen. Caryn Tyson, R-Parker, the annual cost of the state income tax exemption would be an estimated $13.2 million. That figure could change if the bill was amended or if taxpayer behavior shifted so more Kansans worked in tipped positions.

The proposed tax break would apply to tips reported on federal tax returns, which were the basis for determining state taxable income for Kansans. The state tax benefit would start in the 2026 tax year and an individual would be limited to a $25,000 exemption annually.

The Internal Revenue Services views all tips as income subject to taxation. President Donald Trump has endorsed the idea of repealing the federal tax on tips. There have been conversations in Congress about exempting tips, but the new U.S. House budget resolution didnt mention tips or overtime compensation.

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U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, predicted a federal exemption could pass Congress by June as part of the presidents agenda to drive domestic prosperity. A federal tax break might be included in future legislation, but absence of progress on the national level led states to consider exempting tips from state taxable income.

During the Kansas Senate committees hearing on the bill Monday, no one offered testimony in favor of the legislation. Kansas Action for Children did raise concerns.

Nathan Kessler, tax policy adviser at Kansas Action for Children, said economists and tax experts across the political spectrum regarded eliminating the income tax on tips as poor public policy. He said issue of fairness existed because tips provided a waitress would be exempt, while tips to a teacher wouldnt. The distinction was likely to compel lobbyists for all sorts of industries  accountants, doctors to educators  to seek inclusion of their clients in the tip exemption, he said.

Kansas Action for children recognizes the real need for cost-of-living relief, especially for low-income households, Kessler said. If the goal is to put more money in the pockets of tipped workers there are much better ways to do that. The most efficient would be to raise the minimum wage for those workers in Kansas.

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In February, Gov. Laura Kelly and Democratic leadership in the House and Senate proposed the Legislature raise the states minimum wage to $15 per hour. The $7.25 minimum wage in Kansas hasnt been increased since 2010. In Missouri, the minimum wage stands at $13.75 per hour.

Kessler said the Senate legislation would capture about 2.5% of the states workforce if every bartender, waiter, food server, host, hairdressers, stylist, cosmetologist, manicurist, pedicurist and concierge was included. The Kansas Department of Labor estimated the median annual income for these Kansans was approximately $29,350.

Many of these workers do not actually have a tax liability or it is so small that exempting their tipped income will offer little meaningful relief, Kessler said.
Protesters plagued Vice President JD Vances vacation over the weekend, calling out the second-highest-ranking executive branch leader for the administrations catastrophic agenda.

Vance was less than welcome during a family ski trip to Vermonts Sugarbush Resort on Saturday, as hundreds of protesters gathered to express their outrage at the official and his connection to the Trump administration.

Demonstrators lining the streets in Waitsfield lamented the administrations aggressive anti-immigration agenda, while others argued that the country is in serious trouble under Trumps leadership.

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Our democracy is at risk, and we have people who dont care about people, Terry Bambrick from Richmond, Vermont, told the crowd, reported NBC 5.

A smattering of signage posted online captured the local resentment: Proud of Mad River Valley, Disgusted by This Administration; SHAME; Go fuck a couch, not my country; Support your local co-op, not this fkn coup; bully JD Vance, go away.

Shops and storefronts in the area also participated in the protest, placing signage out front to inform the vice president that he would receive no service in the Green Mountain State.

Sorry VP, sold out, read a sign outside of Mad River Glen in Waitsfield.

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Vance? We thought Elon was VP, read a sign posted on the sidewalk.

Screenshot of a tweet

Others turned out to express their horror that the vice president had bombed a potential peace talk between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Friday, escalating tensions and instigating conflict between the two presidents by claiming that the Ukrainian leader had not been grateful for U.S. aid.

One demonstrator held up a sign that said, Vance is a traitor who should go ski in Russia.

As Vance departed on Sunday back to Washington, one local, Tommy Lovegood, had a message for the vice president: This is Vermont. You dont belong here, Lovegood told NBC 5.
ST. LOUIS  The weekends Soulard Mardi Gras celebration draws thousands of people to the historic south St. Louis neighborhood, providing an economic boost to local restaurants, bars, and shops.

With the large crowds and frivolity comes an increased police presence.

On Monday, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department released arrest statistics for this past Saturday.

Thunderstorms with gusty winds expected Tuesday

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According to police spokesman Sgt. Sean Mazzola, police made 12 arrests on Saturday. The Bud Light Grand Parade ran that morning, featuring 80 units rolling through Soulard.

Seven people were detained for underage drinking, issued summonses, and released; one person was arrested for disturbing the peace and resisting arrest; one person was arrested for fourth-degree assault on a law enforcement officer; and three people were arrested on at-large warrants for third-degree assault.

While the origins of Mardi Gras stem from New Orleans, St. Louis also has some deep-rooted connections. Back in the 1790s, one southern area of St. Louis City was run by an upper Louisiana surveyor named Antoine Soulard. The neighborhood later embraced his namesake and began hosting Mardi Gras celebrations more than 200 years later.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2.
LANSING, Mich. (WLNS)  U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan has invited Andrew Lennox, of Livingston County, to be her guest at President Donald Trumps Joint Speech in Washington D.C. on Tuesday.

Andrew Lennox was a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs employee in Ann Arbor before he was fired due to DOGE funding cuts.

Lennox was born and raised in Romeo, MI. He graduated high school in 2007 and earned his bachelors in Middle Eastern Studies and Arabic from Western Michigan University in 2011.

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Shortly after graduating, he enlisted in the Marines, where he served as an infantryman and recruiter for 10 years and was deployed in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.

Lennox started working as an administrative officer in the Primary Care Division at VA in Ann Arbor on Dec. 2024. His job was to certify hours worked, ensure VA professionals had the right credentials, and see that tax dollars were not wasted.

However, he was fired by DOGE via email on Feb. 13.

Im thrilled to have him as my guest at the Presidents speech, but I wish it were under different circumstances. Elon Musk knows nothing about the VA, and its shameful Andrew got a pink slip as part of these arbitrary firings, said Slotkin in a news release sent to 6 News.

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SMITHFIELD, Va. (WAVY)  Fundraisers for Officers Christopher Reese and Cameron Girvin were held across Virginia over the weekend. The two Virginia Beach officers were shot and killed while on duty just over a week ago.

Complete Coverage: Fallen VBPD Officers Reese and Girvin

I was blown away, said Michael Christou. We have a huge police presence in the restaurant.

Christou and his father co-own The Cockeyed Rooster in Smithfield. He said they were stunned to hear the news.

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Were really close with all the officers around town, he explained. I cant imagine, just for Virginia Beach and the city as a whole, you know, losing officers. Its absolutely terrible. I couldnt imagine.

The restaurant owners felt they had to do something to help support the community, so they scheduled a weekend-long fundraiser. For each bill, 20% of each total went to the families of Reese and Girvin. They even plated up t-shirts and 100% of those sales went to the families too.

In total, the pair was able to donate more than $6,000 to the Virginia Beach Police Foundation.

It feels really great. You know, were extremely blessed and lucky to be able to have this kind of reach and this kind of support from the community, said Christou. I know every bit goes a long way, so were just trying to do what we can and hopefully, this can this helps them out. I hope whatever we can raise that it goes to the families and helps them just a little bit during this terrible time.

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For more ways to donate to the families, click here.

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DENVER (KDVR)  If you see smoke near Frost Creek on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, dont panic: It could be a slash pile burn.

The slash pile burns are conducted by the Eagle Valley Wildland group, which is made up of volunteers from the Eagle River Fire Protection District.

FOX31 Weather: View the latest Denver forecasts, maps and radar

The wildland group announced the expected smoke plumes on Sunday, and said to expect to see smoke near Frost Creek, a country club. The area is located south of Eagle on the arterial Brush Creek Road.

The fires are expected to be visible for at least 72 hours, the agency said, and asked residents to not call 911 for reports of smoke.

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This is a controlled burn aimed at benefitting our community and environment, Eagle Valley Wildland said.

The group also shared details about why it conducts slash pile burns. Slash piles refer to piles of brush or other woody materials created by logging or storms, and the group said that burning them helps reduce excess vegetation for the forest, decreasing the risk of future uncontrollable wildfires. They also said the burns are good for:

Promoting the growth of native plants and maintaining the balanced ecosystem

Burning dead and decaying matter to return nutrients into the soil

Improving visibility for road and trail users, enhancing public safety

Improved recreation areas for hiking, camping and wildlife viewing

The group thanked the community for its support and understanding while the burns are underway.

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Question: Is social media bad for democracy?

Answer: There are concerns about social media, and a fairly robust debate on the importance of platforms such as TikTok on the social and political development of children. However, the conversation is probably too narrow. These digital platforms affect people of all ages. Platforms like Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) have become central to how we consume political information and participate in civic life. But, as we examine these platforms, scholars are realizing that not all are created equal or produce the same kinds of results. A study I co-authored Facebook vs Twitter (X): The differential relationship with mass attitudes about democracy in Latin America, published in Internet Research, digs into how these two social media platforms differently influence attitudes toward democracy. It turns out where you get your information matters.

You need to start by understanding who is driving the conversation. Facebook, with its friend-based network and bottom-up structure, thrives on mass public communication. Its more like a sprawling digital town square where everyday folks  your neighbors, your cousins, that guy from high school  share opinions, memes and the occasional rant. X, by contrast, leans top-down. Its the megaphone for elites  politicians, movie stars, journalists and influencers  who drive the conversation with pithy and viral content. We analyzed data across 18 countries and paired that with democracy scores. What we found is striking. Platforms dont just reflect political attitudes  they shape them, and in different directions.

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Opinion: Are AI-generated 'deepfakes' a danger to our social and political discourse?

Social media platforms impact political attitudes

In our data, Facebook users tend to feel less positive about democracy. Why? Consider the platforms endless scroll of unfiltered takes  some sharp, some conspiratorial and many showing frustration. That bottom-up flow amplifies dissent and discontent, often highlighting government failures or fueling skepticism about institutions. Its not hard to see how this could sour someones view of democracy, especially in places where trust is already shaky. X, in the nations we studied, had a different effect. Its users  particularly the consumers following elite voices  report more favorable views of democracy. In our sample, governments and officials often used X to project openness and responsiveness, crafting a narrative that bolsters faith in the system.

None of this is permanent. Since Twitter became X and shifted many of its principal approaches, it will likely generate a different response and appeal to a different audience. Yet understanding how important digital platforms are to consumer attitudes and beliefs is still vital. Political engagement isnt just about voting  its about how we see our role in the governing process. If a platform breeds cynicism, it might push people toward disengagement or protest rather than constructive participation.

Opinion: Florida politicians indulge conspiracy theorists with nonsense 'chemtrails' bill

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While we studied Latin America, the lessons are important in the U.S. as well. Consider our last election cycle. Facebook was awash with popular outrage, while X was the source of many pundits and politicians framing the narrative. Our study suggests these dynamics arent random; theyre baked into the platforms DNA. If social media can sway how we feel about democracy itself, its not just a tool  its a player in the political process and Americans are right to be concerned about what that means going forward.

Kevin Wagner

Kevin Wagner is a noted constitutional scholar, political science professor, and Co-Director of the PolCom Lab at Florida Atlantic University. The answers provided do not necessarily represent the views of the university. If you have a question about how American government and politics work, email him at kwagne15@fau.edu or reach him on (X) @kevinwagnerphd.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Facebook, social media are major players in US politics | Opinion
Former Social Security Commissioner Martin O'Malley, who headed the agency during the Biden administration, urged people to start saving money now because benefits could be interrupted in the next one to three months. He told CNBC that changes DOGE is making to the agency have already caused IT system outages, which he predicted will become more frequent until there is a "system collapse."

The federal government has never failed to deliver Social Security payments on time, but a former commissioner warned that could happen soon as Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency makes changes and cuts staff.

Martin O'Malley, who led the agency during the Biden administration, told CNBC on Saturday that cuts have already led to IT outages, which he predicted will become more frequent and last longer each time until there's a total failure.

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"Ultimately, youre going to see the system collapse and an interruption of benefits. I believe you will see that within the next 30 to 90 days," OMalley said, adding that "people should start saving now" before payments stop.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) and the U.S. DOGE Service didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.

The warning comes as the SSA announced plans to cut 7,000 jobs as part of the Trump administration's broader push across the federal government to slash staffing levels and trim costs.

But even ahead of those cuts, SSA has already seen a number of departures at senior levels, including regional commissioners and top leadership.

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Acting Commissioner Michelle King, who had worked at SSA for three decades, resigned last month after she reportedly refused to grant DOGE access to sensitive Social Security records.

Leland Dudek was named acting commissioner but was soon placed on administrative leave for cooperating with DOGE.

I confess. I bullied agency executives, shared executive contact information, and circumvented the chain of command to connect DOGE with the people who get stuff done, he wrote in a since-deleted LinkedIn post that was reviewed by the Wall Street Journal.

Trump has tapped Fiserv CEO Frank Bisignano to serve as SSA commissioner.

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Union officials representing SSA workers also told CNBC that staff cuts may impact Americans filing new claims as those often require manual processing, especially as many older applicants are less likely to submit electronic claims.

Charles Blahous, a senior research strategist at George Mason University's Mercatus Center and a former public trustee for Social Security, told Fortune it's unclear whether the SSA staff cuts are more likely to result in an interruption of benefits or an increase in improper payments.

That's because claims for Social Security disability payments involve more hands-on work compared to retirement benefits, which are more efficient, he explained.

"Its not obvious to me where the choke point will be," Blahous said in an email. "If the reduced staff err on the side of making sure all claims are processed, improper payments will likely rise. If instead the reduced staff prioritizes preventing improper payments, the risk of processing delays would increase."

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Musk had previous sparked concern about his plans for the safety net after he said tens of millions of dead Americans are receiving Social Security checksa claim the Associated Press debunked.

And on Friday, he added to fears when he called Social Security a "Ponzi scheme" and described the federal government as "one big pyramid scheme."

In October, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, a nonpartisan watchdog, said Trumps policies would hasten the demise of Social Securitys trust fund.

It predicted that the Social Security Board of Trustees would start cutting benefits by 2031 instead of 2034 because the fund that covers the deficit between outlays and revenue would run out of money sooner.

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Meanwhile, O'Malley predicted there will be growing concern among Americans about Social Security benefits, which have long been seen as a "third rail" in U.S. politics.

I think many people throughout the country are going to start bringing a lot of heat to members of Congress who have been facilitating, supporting, aiding, and abetting the breaking of their Social Security and the interruption of benefits that they work their whole lives to earn, he told CNBC. These are earned benefits.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
ON BEHALF OF THE ENTIRE STATE of Wisconsin, I would like to apologize for the statements, actions, and indeed the very existence of U.S. Congressman Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.). Although he is in fact an elected representative, he is not representative of the vast majority of us Wisconsinites. In fact, this guy embarrasses the hell out of us.

Van Orden, a former Navy SEAL and bit-part movie actor (in the 2012 film Act of Valor, he delivers the line Shit filters full while interrogating a terrorist), was re-elected last November to a second term on the strength of heavily gerrymandered congressional maps. Of the thirty-two bills and resolutions Van Orden sponsored in the 118th U.S. Congress (202324), exactly none became law; just three bills passed the GOP-controlled House before dying in the Senate, and a single Van Orden resolution received agreement in the House: It encourages all Americans to engage with veterans. A legislative titan he is not.

Despite this sorry record, Van Orden has nonetheless managed to make a name for himself in Congress, placing high in such categories as crudest, meanest, dumbest, and most obnoxious.

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Hes been edging out competition in these categories for years. In August 2023, I wrote a piece for The Bulwark that ran under the headline, Derrick Van Orden Makes No Apologies for Being a Jerk. At that time, he had just drawn national attention for having vulgarly berated a group of 16- and 17-year-old Senate pages who were in the Capitol just after midnight, engaged in a Senate page tradition of lying on the Rotunda floor taking photos of the Capitol dome. Van Orden happened upon them after leaving an event in his Capitol office at which the beer and liquor had flowed freely.

Wake the fuck up, you little shits, he shouted. What the fuck are you all doing? Get the fuck out of here. Van Orden called the teenagers jackasses and pieces of shit, reportedly screaming inches from the pages faces. His outburst drew sharp condemnation, including a public rebuke from Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.): This is inexcusable and embarrassing behavior for a member of Congress or any adult for that matter. The Congressman should do the right thing and apologize.

Apologize, Van Orden did not. Instead, he issued a statement bizarrely accusing the pages of threatening a congressman with bad press to excuse poor behavior, adding, even more bizarrely, Luckily, bad press has never bothered me and if its the price I pay to stand up for whats right, then so be it.

Okey dokey.

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Van Orden was similarly bereft of contrition in 2021 when he upbraided a 17-year-old girl who was working at a public library in his district in western Wisconsin. The then-candidate for Congress was upset to see a display of LGBTQ-themed books that had been set up in recognition of Pride Month. His voice was loud, he was aggressive, he had his finger jabbing into [the book] constantly, the girl told the local paper. He was full-on shouting at this point and he kept aggressively shoving the books around.

Again, true to form, Van Orden could not muster an apology, instead issuing a statement in which he claimed the moral high ground: There are people who continue to divide us as Americans for political purposes, he wrote. I will not allow them to further degrade the relationships we have as citizens.

What a piece of work this guy is.

Join the best pro-democracy community on the internet: Sign up for a free or paid Bulwark subscription today.

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Also in 2021, before he was first elected, Van Orden got nabbed at an airport in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, with a loaded handgun in his carry-on luggage, for which he was fined and ordered to take a firearms-safety course. Of course, Van Orden framed the experience in a way that deflected blame and minimized culpability, with his campaign issuing a statement proclaiming him a decorated Navy SEAL veteran with 5 deployments to combat zones who is an expert with firearms and firearm safety. Why, he should be allowed to bring loaded guns on planes!

This all was, as I noted at the time, part of a pattern: Van Ordens deplorable behavior is always excusable and never his fault.

SINCE THIS EARLIER ELUCIDATION, Van Ordens deplorableness has continued, including his social-media meltdown last year in response to Trumps conviction on thirty-four felony counts for falsifying business records to hide hush-money payments to a porn actress.

In one post, Van Orden described presiding Justice Juan Merchan as Communist Scum. In another, he ran Merchans picture alongside that of Roland Freisler, a Nazi judge few would recognize, with the message Same vibe, different hair stylist. He also derided former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, a fellow Republican, for saying the jury verdict should be respected. Van Orden quote-tweeted Hutchinson to broadcast his reply: You have just permanently disgraced yourself and destroyed any positive legacy you had. Kick Rocks, coward.

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A few days ago, on February 21, Van Orden posted on X the image of a very large shirtless man in overalls shopping at Walmart. In the caption, Van Orden mockingly claims the man is Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), a fellow member of the states congressional delegation and Van Ordens nemesis. He writes: He has to go incognito because all of the farmers just love him for the zero work he has done for them. Ill spare you the image, although its available at the link above. But here is a sampling of the comments that were posted in response:

What an embarrassment to the office. This is beneath even you. Grow up, jerk. Act like a man for a change. Real Wisconsin has no use for scrubs like you. What a pathetic piece of shit you are. How old are you? Grow the f up you drunken disgrace. [D]oes your permanent disability from the military relate to being a fucking asshole? Drunk again eh? Fuck you Derrick you disgrace to Wisconsin. Good grief. You are a man baby. You were not voted in office to do this. You are a fricking disgrace as a representative!! WTF is wrong with you? How does any of this serve your constituents? Debate him like a normal human being or shut the fuck up and drown yourself in your booze.

Was Van Orden chastened by this backlash? Did it cause him to rethink his behavior? Perhaps the remarks alluding to being drunk might make him want to distance himself from such a reputation? Are you kidding?

Three days later, this is what the congressman posted in response to someone who suggested he should consider pushing back from alcohol:

Again, I apologize. I am sorry that you had to see that. Im even sorrier that this is not the most outrageous work product to issue from Van Orden in recent days.

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You heard me. Read on.

ON FEBRUARY 18, VAN ORDEN introduced a House resolution calling for the impeachment of U.S. District Judge Paul Engelmayer of New York for high crimes and misdemeanors.

Engelmayers offense? He temporarily blocked members of co-President Elon Musks DOGE team from accessing Treasury Department records on millions of Americans, including bank account and Social Security numbers, in response to a lawsuit filed by nineteen Democratic attorneys general. Or, as Van Orden put it in his resolution:

Engelmayer has abused his judicial office by using his authority to further personal or political interests, contrary to the constitutional responsibility to apply the law impartially, including the improper handling of this case in a manner that demonstrates favoritism or undue influence, undermining the fundamental principles of justice.

The resolution says Engelmayer, a former law clerk to Justice Thurgood Marshall who was appointed to the federal bench for the Southern District of New York by President Barack Obama, engaged in judicial misconduct when he halted President Donald J. Trumps Executive order establishing and implementing the Presidents Department of Government Efficiency on purely political grounds, demonstrating clear bias and prejudice against the President and the 74,000,000 Americans who voted for him.

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Actually, Trump was elected last November with more than 77 million votes. The error has been pointed out but not corrected.

Van Orden followed his resolution with a post on Musks social media site X. The time for Judicial Activism is over, he proclaimed. The American people gave @realDonaldTrump a mandate and no politician disguised as a jurist will interfere with it.

Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.) introduced his own resolution to impeach Engelmayer a few days later, alleging that by making a political decision outside the scope of his legal duties, he compromised the impartiality of our judicial system.

Both resolutions seem to have been inspired by Musks own insane assertions about Engelmayers exercise of judicial authority. (A corrupt judge protecting corruption, Musk posted. He needs to be impeached NOW!) Trump himself added fuel to the fire, declaring from the Oval Office, with Musk at his side, It seems hard to believe that judges want to try and stop us from looking for corruption. Trump added, It seems hard to believe that a judge could say, We dont want you to do that, so maybe we have to look at the judges because I think thats a very serious violation.

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Van Ordens resolutionwhich, as of this writing, has attracted a total of zero cosponsors (Cranes has garnered several)is plainly ridiculous. As his colleague Rep. Pocan gibed, Maybe if Derrick took time . . . to read the Constitution, hed realize there are three equal branches of government, and that we have laws in this country that must be followed no matter who is in charge.

The editorial board of the Wisconsin State Journal also rang up the congressman, in a February 23 editorial titled, Derrick Van Ordens impeachment ploy is absurd, dangerous. Van Ordens resolution, the paper noted, claims Engelmayer may have acted with political intent, which it called a new and incredibly low standard for impeachment under which any judge in the country could be similarly targeted for removal from the bench.

Van Ordens grandstanding, the State Journal warned, will erode the integrity of our judiciary and threaten the rule of law. It urged voters in his western Wisconsin district to remember Van Ordens rash impeachment ploy the next time he seeks their votes.

Hope springs eternalor at least once every two years.

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IN 2023, WHEN THE STORY BROKE about Van Ordens verbal assault on teenage Senate pages in the Capitol, he told a reporterby way of framing the issue in a way that made his own disgusting behavior seem honorablethat the Rotunda had been used as a field hospital during the Civil War. I would think that Id be terribly disrespectful to lay on the grave of a soldier that died fighting for freedom, he said.

Van Ordens comments prompted Pocan to tweet: Wonder if he told that to his fellow insurrectionists, who were beating police officers on the same ground?

Yes, its true: Van Orden was among the many thousands of Trump supporters who showed up in Washington, D.C., on January 6, 2021, seeking to overturn the result of a free and fair election. He has claimed he did not enter the Capitol grounds, but the Daily Beast later published photos showing him in a restricted area.

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In recent months, Van Orden has drawn plaudits for demonstrating the uncommon courage to speak against Trumps pardons of the most violent offenders that day, as the State Journal wrote in its editorial. The paper said he deserved credit for defending police officers beaten by protesters, which really does not seem that heavy a lift. Its basis for this claim, set forth in an earlier editorial, is that Van Orden told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, I do not support pardoning people who assaulted our police officers.

First of all, it should be noted this bold declaration of nonsupport for cop beaters came only after the advocacy group Courage for America ran an ad in daily newspapers in Van Ordens district urging his constituents to CALL CONGRESSMAN VAN ORDEN TODAY AND DEMAND HE OPPOSE THE PARDONING OF ANY JANUARY 6TH INSURRECTIONISTS.

Moreover, Van Ordens comment was in no way a repudiation of Trumps decision to pardon even the most violent participants in what the newly reinstalled president has rebranded as a day of love. Van Orden went on to say, in that very same Journal Sentinel article, that he fully supports pardons for those who non-violently entered the Capitol (perhaps by climbing through smashed windows), and further, he thinks those convicted of committing violence against police should have their sentences commuted.

Gotta be very clear here, Van Orden is quoted as saying. The folks that assaulted police officers sentences should have been commuted years ago to match an equivalent crime from anywhere around the country.

This is the essence and extent of Van Ordens purportedly courageous criticism of Trump for turning loose the hooligans who brutalized law enforcement. It is actually an affirmation of his belief that they all should be released to receive their heroes welcome.

Wisconsin deserves better than to be affiliated with this awful man. So does the House of Representatives. So do we all. Please, dear nation, accept our apologies. Derrick Van Orden does not know how to make them.

Share this article with two Wisconsinites, a Michigander, and a Minnesotan.

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(Bloomberg) -- The African National Congress, South Africas largest political party, appointed Zuko Godlimpi as head of its economic transformation committee in an overhaul of its internal structures.

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The youngest member of the ANCs top decision-making body, Godlimpi previously served as deputy on the panel to Mmamoloko Kubayi, whos been removed as chairwoman. ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri confirmed the change by phone.

Godlimpi, who serves as deputy minister of trade and industry in Cyril Ramaphosas administration, has been touted as a possible future finance minister. Enoch Godongwana, the current minister, previously served as chairman of the economic transformation committee.

Kubayi was among ANC officials who last month opposed the National Treasurys proposal to increase the value-added tax rate by two percentage points. That objection, along with opposition by the Democratic Alliance - the second-largest party in the nations ruling coalition  led to the postponement of the budget for the first time since apartheid ended in 1994.

Kubayi asked to be moved out of the ETC after her appointment to the justice department in December, her spokesman Terrence Manase said by phone on Monday.

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Deputy Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Sihle Zikalala takes over from Godlimpi as second in command of the committee.

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GRANITEVILE, SC (WJBF)  The burn ban was put in place on March 1st prohibiting all outdoor burning including yard debris, prescribed burning and campfires.

According to the state Fire Marshall there are more than 175 wildfires with ongoing operations.

An official with the Graniteville Vaucluse Warrenville Volunteer Fire Department, Cpt. Aaron Fittery explains more about they the ban has been put into effect.

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With the fires that we have throughout the state right now, with the manpower thats being used, obviously it being the way it is now, it could be hard to get personnel to the area and things like that because theyre in other places working, trying to mitigate fires that are happening at this moment.

The weather conditions are playing a big role in these fires due to dry and windy conditions.

Fittery says there would be consequences if you do not follow the burn ban.

If you had a fire and it got out of control, the first thing would be that youre in violation of the state burn ban, which is a fine. And then also, if you were to have a fire that you started, say you were burning vegetation of your own, and it got onto someone elses property, that could be an arrestable offense.

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The South Carolina Forestry Commission posted on their X account a reminder that flying drones or unmanned aircraft systems near a wildfire is illegal and can cause air operations to shut down putting firefighters, residents and properties at risk.

Fittery says with the brush fires happening in our area to avoid any burning at all costs.

Be cautious of what youre doing, obviously now is not the best time to be burning, so just wait until we get some water, some rain and things like that to be able to do your burning then when its allowed, now is not the time you want to be doing it.

Governor Henry McMaster said in a press release that the burn ban will be in effect until further notice, to stay informed and to call 9-1-1 if there are any immediate threats.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
As wildfires rage across parts of the Carolinas and Georgia, officials are urging some residents not to travel unless absolutely necessary, citing dangerous travel conditions.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday as firefighters continued to battle the blaze in the Horry County section of the Carolina Forest just outside of Myrtle Beach. As of the late evening hours on March 2, the fire was only about 30 percent contained and had scorched 1,600 acres, per the South Carolina Forestry Commission (SCFC), with many taking the evacuation orders seriously and fleeing.

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12:50 PM Sunday - Video of one of the flareups late this morning along West Walkerton. Crews have been able to tamp this area down some. Credit: Mike Lubensky #SCwx @wmbfnews pic.twitter.com/8pZemALrEs  Jamie Arnold WMBF (@jamiearnoldWMBF) March 2, 2025

Come Monday morning, the number of fires dwindled from 175 to 163, per SCFC. But what's been described as a heavy and low-hanging "blanket of smoke" added another layer of difficulty to not only first responders but also those living in the area.

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In footage obtained by local WMBF News reporters, "zero visibility" conditions are present across parts of Highway 501 and Highway 31 to Water Tower Road.

Live traffic cameras captured the thick haze coating the highways, as seen in an X (formerly Twitter) post shared by WMBF's chief meteorologist Jamie Arnold. Arnold also re-posted several other shots of smoke-filled skies taken by locals.

Live traffic cams showing the extremely low visibility due to smoke along heavily traveled 501 in Myrtle Beach and Carolina Forest this morning. Extreme caution is urged including along Carolina Forest Blvd. #SCwx @wmbfnews pic.twitter.com/SBj9PmcxOj  Jamie Arnold WMBF (@jamiearnoldWMBF) March 3, 2025

Arnold's colleague, meteorologist Andrew Dockery, hit the road for a first-person perspective of the intense smoke on Carolina Forest Boulevard and Walkers Woods Reserve, sharing photos and videos to X of the "poor air quality" and "thick smoke."

Were in the Walkers Woods reserve where the worst of the smoke is. @jamiearnoldWMBF @wmbfnews pic.twitter.com/rrS3QP3NdA  Andrew Dockery (@AndrewWMBF) March 3, 2025

Were in the Walkers Woods Reserve this morning where smoke is causing poor air quality and thick smoke. @jamiearnoldWMBF @wmbfnews pic.twitter.com/q3F8hcNaaG  Andrew Dockery (@AndrewWMBF) March 3, 2025

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A spokesperson for Horry County Fire Rescue also asked "people to avoid the Carolina Forest Boulevard area as the work to contain the fire continues," according to the outlet.

"Officials are urging you not to travel on Carolina Forest Blvd this morning if you dont need to," Dockery warned early Monday morning. "THICK smoke is creating zero visibility, especially in locations near 501. Officials are hoping to keep most of the road clear for first responders and other personnel."

Russell Hubright, the South Carolina Forestry Commission Chief, described the flames as "very erratic" in a conversation with NBC's Today show this morning.

"You saw that the flames are low and all of a sudden they jumped up right? So wind changes can do that in this kind of a fuel type as we call it, so it can be a little scary," he added.

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Outside of Horry County, fires have burned an estimated 4,200 acres across the state, including in Spartanburg, Union, Oconee and Pickens counties, McMasters office said in a statement Sunday.

First responders also continued to battle at least four active fires in North Carolina early Monday and at least six active fires in Georgia on Sunday, according to the states' forestry websites. Officials in Tennessee also reported that four small fires had been burning on Sunday, but they were all contained or controlled by early Monday morning.

Next: This Environmental Factor Is Linked to Premature AgingHere's How to Stay Safe
The road next to President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago Club reopened Sunday evening following his departure earlier in the day after his fourth trip to his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach since taking office.

South Ocean Boulevard between South County Road and the Southern Boulevard traffic circle is now open to through travel, Palm Beach said in an alert sent about 7:15 p.m. Sunday.

The road closed Friday morning ahead of Trump's arrival that evening for his fourth stay at the property he calls since Winter White House since his Jan. 20 inauguration.

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Trump's return to Washington, D.C., comes ahead of increasingly strained budget talks, with Congress and the White House facing a March 14 deadline to come to an agreement and avoid a government shutdown.

The president's departure means opening times for the three drawbridges to the island will return to their usual schedules, which change when Trump is home as part of temporary security zones implemented by the U.S. Coast Guard.

The removal of the Coast Guard security zones also will allow marine traffic to flow unimpeded through the Intracoastal Waterway past Mar-a-Lago. When Trump is home, law enforcement vessels prevent boaters from pausing near the historic estate.

President Donald Trump arrives on Air Force One at Palm Beach International Airport in West Palm Beach on Feb. 28.

The Secret Service had ordered South Ocean Boulevard next to the club to close 24 hours a day, seven days a week, effective July 20. But with a mid-August deal reached by the Secret Service, Palm Beach, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and Mar-a-Lago, the road reopens when Trump is away for an extended period of time, typically two or more days.

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Portions of this article previously appeared in the Daily News.

Kristina Webb is a reporter for Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at kwebb@pbdailynews.com. Subscribe today to support our journalism.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Road next to Trump's Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach reopens, town says
Mississippi fourth-graders are the tops in the country at math and reading, surpassing their peers in much wealthier New Jersey and Connecticut, according to an analysis of Americas foremost test of student learning. A raft of other, mostly unheralded states command the peaks of academic achievement, including Louisiana, Florida, Texas, and Georgia.

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Those findings emerge out of the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress, often referred to as the Nations Report Card. Amid an otherwise-disastrous release of fourth- and eighth-grade scores last month, experts hailed the emergence of a new hierarchy of educational excellence that largely runs through the South.

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New NAEP Scores Dash Hope of Post-COVID Learning Recovery

Theres a catch, however: That revised national leaderboard is visible only after researchers account for the wide variety of student populations in each state. The startling adjustments to the 2024 NAEP were produced by the left-leaning Urban Institute, which has long applied statistical controls to scores in an attempt to develop a more precise understanding of how well schools are teaching children.

At the heart of the effort is an acknowledgment that student demographics are not evenly sorted across state borders. Black students live in disproportionate numbers across the Deep South, while English language learners are much more likely to be found near the Mexican border. Perhaps most prominently, rates of child poverty are much worse below the Mason-Dixon line than above. Higher or lower concentrations of these student groups, which have all historically posted lower NAEP scores, can heavily sway states performance in ways that may not accurately represent the quality of their schools and teachers, said Matthew Chingos, Urbans vice president for education.

Adjusting for demographic traits produces more of an apples-to-apples comparison between different parts of the country, he added.

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If you want to go to a random state, ask a fourth-grader a math question, and have the highest chance of them getting it right, youll probably be fine going to the place with the most white, high-income kids, Chingos said. But if you want to randomly place a kid in the state where hell learn the most, then this list is a better approximation of that.

To reach that approximation, Chingos and co-author Kristin Blagg used NAEPs national data to compare test takers in each state directly against those of the same age, gender, race, socioeconomic background, special education status, and English language learner designation. These calculations effectively simulate a world in which Hispanic students, for example, are as plentiful in Maine as in Arizona.

The consequent shifts are surprising.

In NAEPs raw (statistically unweighted) scores for fourth-grade math, the one subject in which American students made significant gains over the last two years, the top 10 states were Massachusetts, Florida, Wyoming, New Hampshire, Utah, North Dakota, Minnesota, Texas, and New Jersey. But only four of those (Florida, Massachusetts, Texas, and Indiana) remained among the top 10 in Urbans estimates. Strikingly, New Hampshire and North Dakota actually fell to the 11th- and 12th-worst in the country after controlling for demographics.

The states that get adjusted up love this. The states that get adjusted down ignore it. Matt Chingos, Urban Institute

Inter-state contrasts can be even more stark. New Jersey eighth graders earned an average reading score of 266 second-best in the U.S.), while their peers in Arkansas scored 255 (tied for tenth from the bottom). In Chingos and Blaggs report, however, the two states are nearly identical.

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Among all states, Urban measured Mississippi  which underwent a much-celebrated academic revival over the past decade  as receiving the highest adjusted scores in fourth- and eighth-grade math, as well as fourth-grade reading. It nearly grabbed the top spot in eighth-grade reading for good measure, finishing just behind Massachusetts, Louisiana, and Georgia. A full set of adjusted rankings (illustrated and disseminated on Twitter by education advocate Marc Porter Magee) also placed Texas, Indiana, Florida, South Carolina, Illinois, and Kentucky among the top states after averaging all four age/subject combinations.

Carrie Conaway, a senior lecturer at Harvard who previously served as chief research officer at Massachusettss state education agency, said that both raw and adjusted scores provide an important lens on the true extent of learning. But when local leaders want to benchmark their results against other states, she added, Urbans release is the only way to do it.

Its not that one measurement is better than the other, its that each question comes with a different set of assumptions and conclusions you could draw, Conaway said. But I do think that more people are interested in the question of whose system is the best, independent of demographics.

A matter of perspective

The unavoidable reality is that states must educate the students who actually enroll in their schools. No amount of empirical maneuvering will change those headline numbers.

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Yet Urbans alternative perspective undoubtedly reflects some authentic improvements in school outcomes. Not only did the adjusted scores for Louisiana rank second only to Mississippi, the state also saw some of the fastest-growing raw scores on the 2024 round of NAEP  including the only significant ascent in elementary literacy anywhere in the United States since 2019.

Related

Louisiana Saw Rare Gains on National Exam. K12 Chief Cade Brumley Explains How

Those strides have accompanied the implementation of a wide-ranging overhaul of reading instruction that was consciously modeled after strategies first adopted by Mississippi. But it is difficult to identify which factors led directly to better achievement, Chingos said, arguing that any theories about how learning gains were accomplished would have to allow for the fact that states have done a whole bunch of things over a long period of time.

In Florida, was it the expansion of school choice, the reduction of class sizes, or something else? In Massachusetts, was it all the money that was spent or the strength of teachers unions? You seldom see a clean story like in Mississippi, where they did a big overhaul of reading instruction, and they saw reading scores go way up, he said.

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There Really Was a Mississippi Miracle in Reading. States Should Learn From It

Some also question the importance of rankings themselves. Derek Briggs, a professor at the University of Colorado Boulder who specializes in student evaluation, said that he was more interested in examining the rise or fall of scores over time rather than states comparative positioning on a list. Adjustments like Urbans have value as a way of delving into the results of a one-time exam, he continued, but they are ultimately less useful in the context of NAEP, which tracks each states performance going back to the 1970s.

If the perspective youre taking is to look at trends and change over time, then in some sense, it doesnt matter that certain states begin in different positions, said Briggs. Yes, you can see that the states are in different spots in the original year, but what you really want to focus on is the change.

Chingos conceded that top-down ordering is always a little weird, particularly in the middle of the rankings, because changes of just a point or two in either direction can meaningfully alter how states perceive and present themselves. While he and his colleagues try to communicate the complex ways in which academic reality can be obscured by demographics, the response of state leaders is typically more predictable.

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The states that get adjusted up love this, he said. The states that get adjusted down ignore it.

We take seriously our role as leaders

Few will have the option of ignoring the decline in student learning over the last decade, which worsened dramatically during the COVID era. According to a district-level study of the NAEP results conducted by researchers at Harvard and Stanford, just 6 percent of American students live in school districts where math and reading levels are higher than they were in 2019. And the damage is worst in areas with large numbers of minority and low-income students.

Related

Research: Learning Recovery Has Stalled, Despite Billions in Pandemic Aid

With the end of pandemic relief aid from Washington, states are attempting to launch an academic recovery that will accelerate growth for the kinds of student populations that feature prominently in the Urban Institutes analysis. While their paths to improvement may not be easy to emulate, top-scoring states provide a model for stragglers.

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John White served as Louisianas superintendent of education between 2012 and 2020, when local schools  historically some of the lowest-performing in the country  made significant headway. In an interview, he said he believed that states like Louisiana were able to reach disadvantaged student populations through assertive K12 oversight led by governors, legislatures and state education agencies. Many others embodied a more passive approach that largely centered on dispensing resources to schools and districts, he argued.

Related

NAEP Costs May Have Played Role in Move to Sideline Testing Official Peggy Carr

If you look at the states at the top of the Urban Institute list, you would have to say that its almost synonymous with those that have said, We take seriously our role as leaders of classroom- and school-level change, and we dont see ourselves just as rule makers and check writers, White observed.

While significant differences exist among successful school systems, White said, the unifying element is usually a leadership class that willingly embraces its role as a guarantor of student success. Those responsibilities extend to the selection of high-quality curricula, the provision of teacher training in domains like the science of reading, and the maintenance of high standards and accountability for schools and teachers.

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Trump Cuts Research Lab That Helped Nurture Mississippi Miracle

In a recent essay, literacy advocate Karen Vaites specifically cited Louisiana, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama as beacons of reading growth for the rest of the country to follow. White agreed the region has gained momentum in recent years, adding that the golden age of education reform was largely driven by Southern governors like Bill Clinton in Arkansas, Jim Hunt in North Carolina, and the Bush brothers in Texas and Florida. Along with strong state leadership, he said, particular features like unelected state superintendents and county-level school districts likely explain some of their progress.

To policymakers in states that have struggled to boost student success, and particularly those whose NAEP scores fall after demographic adjustments, he recommended that the challenge be taken seriously.

If youre the state chief in a place like that, the question in front of you is how to use the tools you have to systematize a long-term approach to change, he concluded. I dont see any evidence  and Massachusetts has proven so for decades  that you cant systematize improvement over multiple years.
(SOUTHERN COLORADO)  The City of Manitou Springs and the Pueblo County Sheriffs Office (PCSO) have issued a Red Flag Warning from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, March 3.

RELATED STORY: Incoming storm: Fire danger, snow and high winds

According to the City and Sheriffs Office, combined conditions of warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds are expected to increase the risk of fire danger.

Whenever a Red Flag Warning is in effect in Manitou Springs, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions are automatically enacted for the duration, including:

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An open burning ban that prohibits the use of any outside fire.

An outdoor smoking ban prohibiting the use of any tobacco product or similar material in cigarettes, cigars, or pipes.

Prohibited sale and use of fireworks and explosives.

Restrictions on dangerous equipment use, including any that emit sparks or open flame without access to a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher equal to or exceeeding a rating of 2A 10BC.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX21 News Colorado.
The last time SpaceX launched its Starship and Super Heavy rocket, the upper stage disintegrated spectacularly over the Atlantic. Two months later, SpaceX is set to try again today with less explosive results.

A Monday attempt, though, was scrubbed, but the company could try as soon as Tuesday.

The Jan. 16 launch saw a successful catch of the Super Heavy booster back at the Texas launch site, but the Starship spacecraft blew up after passing over the Gulf of Mexico with scenes of the streaking debris posted to social media from places like the Turks & Caicos.

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The event grounded the in-development rocket, but the Federal Aviation Administration cleared it to launch again as of Feb. 26.

After completing the required and comprehensive safety review, the FAA determined the SpaceX Starship vehicle can return to flight operations while the investigation into the Jan. 16 Starship Flight 7 mishap remains open, the FAA stated. The FAA is overseeing the SpaceX-led investigation.

Still, the FAA cleared Mondays attempt, the eighth suborbital launch of the massive rocket, which had been targeting 6:45 p.m. during a 60-minute launch window from Boca Chica, Texas. The attempt, though, was scrubbed.

The FAA determined SpaceX met all safety, environmental and other licensing requirements for the suborbital test flight, the FAA stated.

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Once again, SpaceX will attempt a catch of the booster, while the upper Starship stage will fly to the east about halfway around the Earth and aim for a water landing in the Indian Ocean west of Australia.

Several hardware and operational changes have been made to increase reliability of the upper stage, SpaceX posted on its website.

The objectives that were not reached during the last attempt are on tap again. That includes a test run of payload deployment and reentry experiments that the company hopes will lead to a future launch with the upper stage landing back at the Texas launch site.

Four test payloads will simulate the size of SpaceXs Starlink satellites and follow the same trajectory of the upper Starship stage so they they burn up on reentry.

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Developmental testing by definition is unpredictable, SpaceX posted. But by putting flight hardware in a flight environment as frequently as possible, were able to quickly learn and execute design changes as we seek to bring Starship online as a fully and rapidly reusable vehicle.

All test flights to date have taken place from Texas, but SpaceX has two launch sites planned from the Space Coast in Florida. Its already building out a tower at Kennedy Space Centers Launch Complex 39-A adjacent to where it launches Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy missions. Its also aiming to build out a tower at neighboring Cape Canaveral Space Force Station taking over Space Launch Complex 37, which had been the home for United Launch Alliance Delta IV Heavys final launches.

Environmental impact studies for both sites were started in 2024, but expected to be complete this year.

SpaceXs plans are to build up infrastructure in Florida and potentially other launch sites to get to hundreds and eventually thousands of Starship launches a year, part of Musks goal of creating a colony on Mars.

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NASA, though, is awaiting a working version of Starship to act as the human landing system for its Artemis III mission, which is aiming to fly as early as mid-2027, and would mark the first time humans, including the first woman, will have set foot on the moon since the end of the Apollo program in 1972.

NASA requires SpaceX to perform a successful uncrewed flight of Starship landing on the moon ahead of that mission as well.
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SpaceX is standing down from the eighth uncrewed test flight of its gargantuan Starship megarocket.

The mission was expected to lift off during an hourlong launch window that opened at 5:30 p.m. CT (6:30 p.m. ET) from SpaceXs Starbase facilities in South Texas.

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But a couple of issues, including an undisclosed issue with the Super Heavy booster, cropped up during the countdown to the launch. While the booster issue didnt appear to halt proceedings for long, computers detected more issues, and the company opted to scrub the launch. SpaceX has not yet set a date for the next attempt, but the vehicle could be ready to lift off as soon as 24 hours, said SpaceXs Dan Huot during the live stream.

SpaceX founder Elon Musk posted that there were too many question marks about this flight, on the social platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Best to destack, inspect both stages and try again in a day or two.

The company only stacked the Starship spacecraft atop the Super Heavy booster this morning. Such last-minute assembly is not common in the world of rocketry.

Huot said the company opted to wait to stack the rocket system in an effort to continue chasing the goal of making Starship as nimble as possible.

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We really want to get to a point where we can fly rapidly, fly as quickly as possible, Huot said. And so this is definitely a case to try and push that forward.

He added that SpaceX did not conduct a wet dress rehearsal of the vehicle, a ground test that typically precedes rocket launches during which engineers fill the rocket with fuel and practice for launch. Such proceedings are typically opportunities to hash out any issues before launch.

The launch was slated to occur about six weeks after an explosive mishap during the vehicles seventh test flight. The midair explosion on January 16 rained debris over the islands of Turks and Caicos.

The Federal Aviation Administration  which licenses commercial rocket launches  is overseeing an investigation into the incident, but on Friday gave SpaceX the green light to launch Flight 8. The agency noted that the probe into the Flight 7 mishap was ongoing, but the FAA determined SpaceX had met all safety, environmental and other licensing requirements for the suborbital test flight, according to a statement.

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The Starship spacecraft, also known as the vehicles upper stage, is designed to ride to space atop a 71-meter-tall (232-foot-tall) rocket booster called Super Heavy. If the next launch attempt goes according to plan, after takeoff, the booster will fire for about 2  minutes before it separates from the spacecraft.

The Super Heavy will then attempt to steer itself back toward a landing in the chopstick arms of SpaceXs launch tower located near Brownsville, Texas, just north of the Mexican border.

SpaceX has so far successfully completed the booster catch maneuver twice.

The Starship craft will ignite its own engines, continuing on a suborbital trajectory.

The Super Heavy booster (left) is seen alongside the Starship spacecraft, or upper stage (right), which is secured in the arms of the "Mechazilla" launch tower at the Starbase facility near Brownsville, Texas, on Sunday. - Kaylee Greenlee/Reuters

SpaceXs key test objectives for Starships eighth test flight are largely similar to those from January, since that flight ended prematurely. This missions goals include an attempt to reignite a Starship engine in space, testing how the vehicle will one day complete more complex missions to orbit.

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About 17  minutes into flight, Starship will also try for the first time to deploy a batch of mock Starlink satellites as part of a demonstration.

Like Starship, these demo payloads are not expected to reach orbit. Rather, the mock satellites will travel on a suborbital trajectory similar to that of the spacecraft, guaranteeing they will be discarded in the ocean, according the company.

About one hour after takeoff, the Starship spacecraft is expected to make a controlled splashdown in the Indian Ocean. The maneuver aims to test out how Starship might be recovered after future flights. But as has been the case with prior test missions, the vehicle will not be recovered and left to a watery grave.

An explosive mishap

SpaceX was set to attempt to deploy dummy satellites during Starships seventh fully integrated test flight in January, but the ship  which debuted several major upgrades including a larger propellant tank  was destroyed less than 10 minutes into the mission.

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In a statement, SpaceX said the Flight 7 explosion was probably caused by a leak in the aft  or rear  section of the vehicle, near a tank that holds super-chilled liquid oxygen, or LOX, a type of rocket propellant.

That leak likely led to an increase in pressure, and a fire broke out, the company said.

Vibrations caused by the sonic conditions of flight might have been the root cause of the issue, according to the statement.

SpaceX also said it lost contact with Starship before the vehicle broke apart, but postflight analysis determined that built-in safety systems did trigger autonomously. Rocket safety systems typically include software designed to blow up a malfunctioning vehicle to prevent large, damaging pieces of debris from reaching the ground.

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The debris from the mishap triggered brief flight disruptions as air traffic controllers rerouted planes away from the explosion.

Apart from one vehicle that was struck on the island of South Caicos, no other instances of property damage or injury were reported.

However, residents of the archipelago of Turks and Caicos told CNN they found  and are still finding  debris from the spacecraft littering beaches and roadways. The local government worked with SpaceX to craft a debris recovery plan.

That plan was approved by the local government on February 13, according to a notice posted to social media. The contents of the strategy, however, were not provided, and its not clear who is paying for the cleanup effort.

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Neither SpaceX nor the Turks and Caicos government responded to requests for comment.

SpaceX said in a statement that it implemented upgrades to Starship in response to the failed January test flight. The changes include new vents and a purge system designed to prevent a fire.

The company also said what mission teams learned prompted them to alter lines that feed fuel to some of the Starships engines, tweak propellant temperatures, and adjust the vehicles operating thrust target  or how much power SpaceX aims for the engines to generate during flight.

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The News

Spain is drawing educated immigrants in droves, lured by the low cost of living and a government that has made inward migration a centerpiece of its economic policy.

Madrid in particular is home to a growing number of American Trump regime refugees, the Financial Times wrote. There are also more than half a million Latin Americans living in the city  12 times as many as there were 25 years ago. At the same time, the government has also made it far harder for non-European Union buyers to purchase a home in Spain, imposing a 100% tax on property sales to discourage second- or holiday-home buyers.

SIGNALS

Spain credits economic strength to migration

Sources: Le Monde, The Guardian, BBC

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Spains socialist government has bucked a continent-wide trend of hardening immigration rules, with President Pedro Sanchez instead presenting an empathetic and positive view of migration, Le Monde noted in September. That openness, analysts said, likely drove Spains outlier economic performance last year  with Spains growth far outpacing Germany, France, and Italy: Its been done with a lot of tourists and a lot of immigrants, one economist told The Guardian. A greater backlash may be coming, however: Locals increasingly hold international visitors responsible for shortages in housing, the BBC reported, and the government has recently imposed a 100% tax on property sales to non-European Union buyers.

Other left-leaning European governments embrace more restrictive migration

Sources: The Economist, The New York Times, The Guardian

While Spain has made a point of welcoming migrants, the European left more broadly has begun to embrace restrictive immigration policies, The Economist noted last year, with an increasing number of leftwing politicians using language like pro-integration, rather than pro-migration, when speaking about the subject. In Denmark, for example, the countrys left-leaning Prime Minister Mette Frederikson has argued that the countrys welfare state is sustainable only by maintaining low levels of immigration, The New York Times reported. Others are toughening their stances in a bid to outflank anti-immigrant parties: Under pressure from rising support for the populist right, the UKs Labour government recently published guidance stating that anyone who enters the country illegally should be refused citizenship as a default.
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana speaks at a press conference Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, after the U.S. House passed a bill that would prohibit transgender students from competing on women's school sports teams consistent with their gender identity. (Photo by Shauneen Miranda/States Newsroom)

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In 2021, Steve Berger, an evangelical pastor who has attacked the separation of church and state as a delusional lie and called multinational institutions demonic, set off on an ambitious project. His stated goal: minister to members of Congress so that what they learn is then translated into policy. His base of operations would be a six-bedroom, $3.7 million townhouse blocks from the U.S. Capitol.

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Recently, the pastor scored a remarkable coup for a political influence project that has until now managed to avoid public scrutiny. He got a new roommate.

House Speaker Mike Johnson has been staying at the home since around the beginning of this year, according to interviews and videos obtained by ProPublica.

The house is owned by a major Republican donor and Tennessee car magnate who has joined Berger in advocating for and against multiple bills before Congress.

Over the past four years, Berger and his wife, Sarah Berger, have dedicated themselves to what they call their D.C. ministry center. In addition to Johnson, who is an evangelical conservative, the pastor has built close relationships with several other influential conservative politicians. Dan Bishop, now nominated for a powerful post in the Trump White House, seems to have also lived in the home last year while he was still a congressman, according to three people.

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A spokesperson for Johnson said that the speaker pays fair market value in monthly rent for the portion of the Washington, D.C. townhome that he occupies. He did not answer a question about how much Johnson is paying. House ethics rules allow members of Congress to live anywhere, as long as they are paying fair-market rent.

The spokesperson added that Johnson has never once spoken to Mr. Berger about any piece of legislation or any matter of public policy. Berger and Bishop did not respond to requests for comment.

The Bergers have described their mission as galvanizing political allies to take action. Its just iron sharpening iron, Sarah Berger said on a podcast last summer, explaining the couples approach to political influence. Like, Oh yeah, thats why Im standing firm on this policy.

Steve Berger claims to have personally spurred legislation. Its a humbling thing, he said in a sermon in late 2022. You get a text message from a senator that says: Thank you for your inspiration. Because it has caused me now to create a bill that is going to further righteousness in this country.

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Bergers interests extend beyond his staunch social conservatism. He and the donor who owns the house, Lee Beaman, have publicly advocated together for numerous specific policy changes, including a bill that would make it easier to fire federal employees and a regulation that would reduce fuel efficiency standards for the automotive industry. After the 2020 election, they both signed a letter declaring that President Donald Trump was the rightful winner and calling for Congress to overturn the results.

Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, did not respond to questions about how he ended up staying at the home. Beaman did not respond to requests for comment.

The earliest date ProPublica was able to confirm Johnson being at the Berger house was in mid-December. A video reviewed by ProPublica shows Johnson visiting the home on Dec. 15 with two women who appear to be his wife and daughter. They lingered outside before entering, while Johnson pointed around the building and down to the basement entrance as if he was giving a tour. Two days later, Berger sent a note to his supporters on social media: I so wish I could tell you all the massive doors that broke open this week.

Since the beginning of the year, videos and interviews show, Johnson has regularly left the house in the morning and returned in the evening. One day that Johnson was there recently, Berger was also at the home, opening the front door barefoot in pajama bottoms. (It appears Johnson may primarily be staying in the homes two-bedroom basement.)

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Washington pieds-a-terre can prove a significant expense for members of Congress as they split time between the capital and their home districts. Johnson is less wealthy than many other lawmakers. He worked at conservative nonprofits before he entered public service, and on his most recent financial disclosure form he did not declare a single asset. When Johnson was elevated to the speakership in 2023, news reports indicated that rather than renting an apartment, he might be sleeping in his office. (Lawmakers must report debts, income and many financial holdings on disclosure forms but arent required to list living expenses like rent.)

The Berger home is in an upscale D.C. neighborhood full of lobbyists and corporate attorneys. Though its not clear what the homes basement would fetch on the open market, its not unusual for two-bedrooms in the area to rent for as much as $7,000 a month. Discounts on rent are generally prohibited by House ethics rules as improper gifts, experts said.

In sermons and on social media, Berger has mentioned some of the topics hes discussed with Johnson and other members of Congress. Last year, Berger, a passionate supporter of the Israeli right-wing, said hed had a great conversation with the speaker about Israel.

Recently, Johnson has described his conversations with Trump to the pastor, according to Berger. After Russia invaded Ukraine, Berger said in a sermon that hed advised some congressmen to see the conflict through the lens of Ezekiel 38 and 39, parts of the Bible some see as prophesying a great war before the Second Coming. He did not specify what that meant from a policy perspective.

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An energetic 60-year-old with a white goatee and penchant for preaching in sneakers and jeans, Berger has strong views on a wide range of issues, including economic policy and public health. He is vehemently opposed to the World Health Organization, which Trump moved to withdraw the U.S. from last month, and recently predicted that COVID-19 vaccines will result in young people dropping dead all over the place. He attacked the World Economic Forum at length in a recent sermon, accusing it of taking advantage of COVID-19 to implement their satanic plot.

Berger is also against same-sex marriage, saying it opens the door to all manner of sexual depravity and wickedness  though he has said he has friends who are practicing homosexuals, people I care about. He opposes homosexuality and heterosexual sin in equal measures, hes said, referring to acts like watching pornography and sex between unmarried adults.

Bergers operation is organized as a nonprofit called Ambassador Services International, which runs on a budget of around $1 million per year, according to tax filings. The home where it is registered in Washington  and where Johnson has been staying  was purchased in early 2021. Once the home of abolitionist Frederick Douglass and later housing the Smithsonian Museum of African Art, it was advertised at the time as a four-level Second Empire-style townhouse of impeccable elegance and exceptional scale, offering bespoke tranquility in a coveted location.

The buyer was Crockett Ventures LLC. Corporate filings show its sole owner is Beaman, the donor and businessman, who built a fortune on a chain of car dealerships started by his father. He has given millions to Republican political groups, including large donations to the Trump campaign and political committees for the Heritage Foundation and the House Freedom Caucus. Hes also served as the treasurer of a congressional campaign.

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Beaman was once so fed up with the restrictions that came with owning a home on a government-controlled lake that he bought a sprawling property with a 50-acre private lake of its own, according to a profile in an architecture book. He became a fixture of Nashville media in recent years because of sordid allegations made by his fourth wife during their divorce, including that he made her watch what he called training films of him having sex with a prostitute. Beamans lawyers wrote at the time that his wifes filing contained impertinent and scandalous matter only meant to harass Mr. Beaman.

Beaman has attended a Tennessee church that Berger founded, but its not clear what role, if any, he plays in the pastors influence project in Washington. Its also unclear whether the pastors nonprofit pays for the use of the Capitol Hill townhouse.

Berger came to prominence in his home state as the longtime pastor of Grace Chapel, a large church outside Nashville whose members have included the current governor of the state. In 2021, Berger left the church and he and his wife launched their project in Washington.

He soon began Bible study sessions with senators, representatives and congressional aides, according to the Bergers. Meanwhile, Sarah Berger spent her time in relationship with and pouring into the lives of congressional wives, tax filings say.

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Steve Berger quickly made connections at the highest levels of the Republican Party.

Listen, I have confessed things to Steve that I wouldnt normally confess to anyone else, Mark Meadows, a White House chief of staff in the first Trump administration who remains an important ally of the president, said at a 2023 event with Berger. We have been praying together, having a Bible study each and every week. Not just me, but several members of Congress.

A group of congressmen gathered on stage together to speak at the pastors 60th-birthday party in October, including Bishop, Rep. Barry Moore, Rep. Andy Ogles and Rep. Warren Davidson. All four are current or former members of the hardline conservative House Freedom Caucus. (None of the four responded to requests for comment.)

Evidence suggests that Bishop also recently lived at the Capitol Hill townhouse. Three neighbors told ProPublica that the FBI visited them this month asking about Bishop, seemingly as part of the background check for his White House job. They said that address, said one neighbor, adding that the agent showed a photo of Bishop. They said: He lived there up to a couple months ago. Do you know him?

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Trump has nominated Bishop to be deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget, the powerful White House office that recently moved to freeze funding streams across the federal government. Berger celebrated the nomination on Instagram: I want to congratulate my dear friend and brother, Congressman Dan Bishop, for accepting this incredible opportunity.

Correction

Feb. 28, 2025: This story originally incorrectly said Steve Berger and Dan Bishop did respond to requests for comment. They did not respond.

Jeff Frankl contributed research.

Do you have any information we should know about Steve Berger or Speaker Mike Johnson? Josh Kaplan can be reached by email at joshua.kaplan@propublica.org and by Signal or WhatsApp at 734-834-9383. Justin Elliott can be reached by email at justin@propublica.org and by Signal or WhatsApp at 774-826-6240.
After living in the U.S. for nearly a decade, Ynoelia Fabian is now fulfilling her dream of opening a restaurant as a participant of the Spice Kitchen Incubator program.

Hispaniola Bistro, a Caribbean incubator kitchen at Square Kitchen Eatery, held a soft opening event on Thursday.

Hispaniola Bistro is located at 2435 S. State in South Salt Lake at Square Kitchen Eatery  a mini food hall that showcases emerging chefs using a shared kitchen and restaurant space. The bistro currently shares the space with three other businesses that serve Latino and Asian cuisine. Square Kitchen Eatery is one of multiple Spice Kitchen Incubator community partners.

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While enjoying her first day in operation, Fabian credits Square Kitchen Incubator with making her dream to own a business and share Dominican flavors with the community come true.

"What I like most is, usually Latinos feel restricted," Fabian said, "but Spice Kitchen Incubator doesn't treat people differently. They treat everyone well and treat them equally  everything you want to do is important to (them)."

Hispaniola Bistro opened on Dominican Republic's independence day, a tribute to the restaurant's roots. It offers a variety of traditional Dominican snack foods, including quipes, bolitas de yuca, empanadas and tropical juices. Main dishes include the Hispaniola Bowl, Chimichurri Dominicano and La Bandera, a typical Dominican meal that consists of rice, beans, roasted chicken and sweet plantain.

Fabian shares that she is self-taught chef, but decided she wanted to gain a formal education when she moved to Utah. She attended Salt Lake Community College and was studying culinary arts when she learned about the incubator program. Now, she has spent two years in the program learning how to run a restaurant and saving money so she could make her dream of being a business owner a reality.

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"I want to show other women like me, you can go and start a business, do whatever you want," said Fabian. "In this country, you make your dream possible. If you're working hard and you go to school, (you can do) whatever you want  it doesn't matter your race, color or nationality."

As a single mom to four kids, Fabian continues to work part time to support her family and fund her business while it is growing. While the experience has been difficult, she hopes her hard work will teach her children they can accomplish their dreams too.

"I hope my children can take my example and that they become good people that believe in themselves and are kind," she said. "I think being a single mother, people think they lose out, but no, we have to do it for our kids."

Hispaniola Bistro is currently operating full time at Square Kitchen Eatery but will officially debut with a grand opening event on March 22. More information can be found on its instagram.

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Spice Kitchen Incubator is a program sponsored by the International Rescue Committee that provides assistance to low-income refugees and new Americans interested in starting their own food business. The program takes about five years to complete and includes education on finances, business management, marketing and more. Before graduating from the program, participants participate in an incubation phase where they receive assistance in opening their business in a commercial space. Once they successfully complete the incubation period, they graduate and move their business out of the Spice Incubator Kitchen program.

Were really so pleased with how much were able to contribute to the strength and cohesion of the entire local community, new Americans and native born included, said Emily Park, Spice Kitchen Incubator program manager. They have such amazing flavors, they have such amazing talents, and were just happy to help contribute to that.
WACO, Tx.  A flight from Springfield had to make an emergency landing in Waco, Texas, Sunday night after turbulence caused injuries to passengers.

Five people were taken to the hospital. Local emergency officials tell Ozarks First that no one has life-threatening injuries.

The plane landed in Waco around 6 p.m. It was originally headed to Houston.

There were 29 passengers on the plane and three crew members.

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Law enforcement was still on the scene two hours after the emergency landing.

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  The Springfield Police Department arrested a man on Saturday in connection with two break-ins to local businesses.

Springfield Police said that shortly after midnight, officers were alerted to a business alarm at a convenience store on the 100 block of Chestnut Street. The door was forcibly broken in, and while the building was being investigated, members of the Springfield Police Real-Time Analysis Center (R-TAC) said that video surveillance showed a suspect fleeing with cash register drawers.

Man sentenced to prison for embezzling from Sturbridge non-profit

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R-TAC members said that the suspect was allegedly also observed breaking into a business on the 100 block of State Street. Using the images of the suspect obtained from the video footage, the officers found the suspect on State Street holding a stolen cash register.

Courtesy of the Springfield Police Department.

The suspect was identified as 61-year-old Jose Vazquez of Springfield, and he was arrested and has been charged with the following:

Breaking and Entering into a Building at Nighttime for a Felony (2 Counts)

Malicious Destruction of Property More than $1200 (2 Counts)

Larceny Under $1200 (2 Counts)

Possession of Burglarious Instruments

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UPDATE 3/4/2025  The Springfield Police Department has arrested two suspects in connection with a shooting near North Kansas Expressway.

One of the suspects in custody is a juvenile, according to SPD.

The suspects names have not been released, and SPD says no additional information is available at this time.

Original story:

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  Springfield Police are searching for a suspect in a shooting near North Kansas Expressway.

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According to the Springfield Police Department (SPD), one person has suffered a gunshot wound and officers are searching the area for a suspect.

Ozarks First will update this story as more information becomes available.

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  For those seeking a career in public education, Springfield Public Schools has many opportunities for qualified applicants.

Parents, educators to protest against potential job cuts in Belchertown school district

The department is hosting a job fair on March 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at MGM Springfield. Available job openings include teachers, paraprofessionals, security officers, and crossing guards.

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Whether you have a degree and years of experience or youre looking for a new career path, this job fair is an opportunity to find a meaningful role where you can make a real impact on students and the community, said Superintendent of Springfield Public Schools Dr. Sonia Dinnall. Our district is beautifully diverse, and we are committed to building a learning community that reflects the brightest and best. Were excited to welcome job seekers to downtown Springfield on March 15.

Attendees can apply in person and speak directly with recruiters and hiring teams to discuss salaries, benefits, and career opportunities.

MGM Springfield is proud to support Springfield Public Schools in its mission to recruit dedicated professionals who will make a lasting impact on students, said Jennifer McGrath, Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement at MGM Springfield. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening the local workforce and investing in the future of our community.

Local News Headlines

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Startups focused on national security & dual-use technology may receive investment up to $400,000 from Salus Ventures

The University of Queensland (UQ) Ventures, in partnership with leading Australian venture capital fund Salus Ventures, today announced that applications are now open for the National Security & Dual-Use Technology Cohort of the prestigious Momentum Accelerator.

The 12-week program, commencing in April, is tailored for startups operating within the national security and defence technology landscape, offering founders a unique opportunity to scale their businesses while contributing to one of Australias most critical sectors.

Startups working across diverse sectors like AI and Data, Quantum Computing, Cybersecurity, Aerospace, and Digital Health are encouraged to apply. Applicants should have proven traction with demonstrated market validation and growth potential.

The program is designed to equip participants with the insights, resources, and connections necessary to thrive in the complex national security and dual-use industries. With a focus on innovation and impact, Momentum Accelerator stands out for its tailored mentorship, exclusive introductions to industry networks, access to investment opportunities, and insights from thought leaders and an Entrepreneur in Residence (EiR).

Vu Tran, Co-founder of Go1 and Black Sky Industries, will serve as EiR. Vus insights, drawn from his experience building pioneering propulsion and aerospace technologies, will be invaluable to the participating startups.

Key Program Highlights:

12-Week Program: A comprehensive accelerator tailored to national security and dual-use startups.

Tailored Mentorship: Dedicated one-on-one mentorship sessions, including access to Salus Ventures team and other industry leaders.

Exclusive Networks: Introductions to key government, commercial, and defence contacts typically out of reach for most startups.

Industry Leading Insights: Gain actionable strategies from successful founders and experts.

Funding Opportunity: Startups have the opportunity to receive up to $400,000 in investment from Salus Ventures (subject to terms).

Marten Peck, Co-Founder and Partner at Salus Ventures, reaffirmed the importance of this collaboration. Queensland is emerging as a leading hub for deep tech and dual-use innovation, with an expanding and vibrant community coming together to create an ideal environment for founders in these sectors.

Dan Bennett, Co-Founder and Partner at Salus Ventures shares that: Were delighted to partner with UQ on the Momentum Accelerator for National Security and Dual-Use Technology and look forward to sharing our unique capabilities and access to our community to help accelerate the growth of the participating cohort.

Nimrod Klayman, Head of Entrepreneurship at the UQ added, Momentum has helped some of Queensland's most promising startups scale, and were thrilled to extend this opportunity to founders innovating in national security and dual-use technology.

Our partnership with Salus Ventures ensures participants gain not only deep sector insights, but access to funding and critical industry connections. I commend QIC for making this collaboration possible and look forward to what UQ Ventures and Salus Ventures can achieve together."

Applications are open through to April 4, 2025, and interested founders can register here and find further information on the Momentum Accelerator website.
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP)  Irish festivities were held in Springfield earlier Sunday for the parade marshal reception at the John Boyle OReilly Club.

Fundraiser event held in honor of 22News Anchor Ciara Spellers father

This years parade Marshal is Kathy Tobin Martin who was honored Sunday evening. Martin Will be leading the Springfield contingent at the Upcoming Holyoke St. Patricks parade. Martin is looking forward to honoring both her familys legacy and the contribution of Irish immigrants who helped shape the region.

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I love this city and I love this coomunity that has made me feel welcome. And I love the tradition of handing it off generation to generation. So ths is probably the most special day in my life, walking down the parade route with all of my communtiy, said Martin.

Martin recieved an Irish Shillelagh, which is a wooden walking stick that is handed down from Marshal to Marshal. Shell be using it in the parade on March 23rd, which you can watch on 22News.

Local News Headlines

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UPDATE 3/3/2025  A Springfield woman serving five years for arson has been sentenced to two years in jail for assaulting a Walgreens employee back in 2022.

According to online court records, Fredaann Marie Reed was in court and changed her plea on Feb. 13. She pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree assault.

A judge sentenced Reed to two years in prison, which will run concurrently with the five years she is already serving for an arson she committed in 2023.

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SPRINGFIELD, Mo.  A Springfield woman accused of arson is now facing new charges in an assault case from 2022.

Online court documents show 44-year-old Fredaann Marie Reed is charged with second-degree assault in connection with an incident that happened at a Walgreens in November 2022.

Fredaann Marie Reed, courtesy of Greene County Jail Inmate Roster

According to a probable cause statement from the Springfield Police Department (SPD), a Walgreens employee approached Reed in an aisle and asked if she needed any assistance. Reed replied, No, leave me alone, then pushed their cart into the workers stomach and side. Reed also pushed the employee into the shelving with both hands.

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Documents state the employee received medical treatment for her injuries, including an MRI, throughout 2023. SPD stated the employee eventually required surgery on her left shoulder in November 2023 due to her injuries from the incident.

Reed is also charged with first-degree arson after police say she set fire to a home after being served an eviction notice. That incident happened in September 2023, nearly a year after the Walgreens assault took place.

Court documents state a judge has granted Reed a continuance to September 2024 in the arson case due to the new assault charges.

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STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now)  Stafford County deputies are investigating a fatal incident that happened on Friday night involving an off-duty officer.

The Stafford County Sheriffs Office (SCSO) said deputies responded to Stratford Place at around 6:30 p.m. for reports of a disturbance and reckless driving.

Mobile home, woods catch fire in Stafford County during red flag warning

An off-duty federal police officer had confronted a motorcyclist about his reckless driving behavior in the area.

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That motorcyclist left but later came back with family members, according to SCSO.

Deputies were able to stop the motorcyclist and his family members near the intersection of North Jenny Lynn Road and Cross Cut Lane.

Thats when three of the family members allegedly began causing a scene with the deputies and the off-duty officer who was still there.

Deputies tried to calm them down, but the disturbance turned physical.

During the disturbance, a 61-year-old man came out of their home and approached the scene.

The federal officer discharged their gun, striking the resident in the chest.

They were taken to the hospital, where they later died.

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SCSO did not say why the off-duty officer discharged their gun.

One deputy was also hurt. They were grazed by the bullet and received minor injuries.

Tactical gear company moving headquarters to Stafford County, creating nearly 100 new jobs

As a result of the incident, 20-year-old Nicolas Vazquez, 21-year-old Angel Vazquez and 46-year-old Xavier Vazquez were all charged with assault and battery on law enforcement, assault by mob, conspiracy to commit a felony and obstruction.

They were taken to the Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Anyone with information about the incident or has video is urged to call (540) 658-4400.

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The House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill begins its committee stage in the upper chamber today. It is a miserable contribution to the saga of reforming the House of Lords.

Its only major provision is to undo the compromise agreed to ensure the passage of the House of Lords Act 1999, by which hereditary peers lost their right to sit and vote but an excepted group of 90 of them, elected by their own ranks, would remain. The Earl Marshal and the Lord Great Chamberlain also remained ex officio.

This change was promised as an immediate measure in Labours election manifesto, which described hereditary peers as indefensible. By isolating it from any other significant change, however, Sir Keir Starmer is proposing a mean-minded measure which will do nothing to make the House of Lords more effective, representative or accountable, but instead represents a thinly veiled power grab by the executive.

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There is a democratic argument against the hereditary peerage. For reasons the minister in charge of the Bill, Nick Thomas-Symonds, was unable to articulate, however, the government sees an hereditary peerage as wholly separate from the hereditary monarchy, which it supports. But the argument is not necessarily decisive.

Labour has also maintained that the House of Lords is too big. This is a frequent but flimsy argument: there are 835 peers entitled to attend but they do not all do so at the same time, and average attendance is lower than in the House of Commons. The removal of 92 hereditary peers is modest, given the 64 life peers that the prime minister has sent to the Lords in less than eight months. Nor are the hereditaries a Tory closed shop: 45 are Conservatives and only four Labour, but there are 33 crossbenchers and four Liberal Democrats.

The real mischief of the current Bill is its betrayal of the deal to keep 92 hereditary peers which Blair agreed with the Conservative leader in the Lords, Viscount Cranborne, in 1998. This was a kind of deposit: the opposition had objected to the Lords becoming a House of Cronies if wholesale reform was not implemented.

The interim retention of the hereditaries was a concession to reassure opponents that the government would not stop at stage one reform. They would be a stone in the shoe to make sure there was a stage two.

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There has been no stage two reform of the House of Lords. Labour raised various proposals in 2003, 2007 and 2008, and the coalition government produced a draft House of Lords Reform Bill in 2012 but could not reach agreement on its final terms. Lords reform is hard: identifying unsatisfactory elements of the upper house is much easier than finding a consensus on what should take its place.

In opposition, Sir Keir Starmer pledged support for a plan devised by Gordon Brown to replace the Lords with an Assembly of the Nations and Regions. By autumn 2023, that commitment was walked back, and the following May Labours Baroness Smith of Basildon professed an open mind on hereditary peers. Now the governments only commitment is to reform of some kind, at some point, after a consultation.

In the meantime, the current Bill will have one striking effect. If the remaining hereditary peers are removed, the House of Lords will, for the first time in its 750-year history, consist solely of legislators appointed by the government. This was the outcome feared in 1998, in democratic terms no better than the existing composition. The hereditary peers are, after all, the only elected members of the House, albeit by a tiny electorate.

Patronage is addictive. I suspect that the government, looking at a revising chamber almost wholly chosen by party leaders, will come to find that further reform is not so pressing after all and that the temporary arrangement is very satisfactory. Making the House more independent or assertive will never be a priority.

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Parliamentary sovereignty is paramount. But the government is undermining that sovereignty by bringing the composition of the House of Lords further under its own control. Status quo, or comprehensive reform: but not this shoddy power grab.

Eliot Wilson is a former House of Commons clerk

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LONDON (AP)  The leaders of Britain and France are spearheading a desperate diplomatic drive to shore up Europes security, bolster Ukraines defenses and ensure the Trump administration doesnt seek a ceasefire on terms that reward Moscow for invading its neighbor.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Emmanuel Macron have been thrust to the fore by a U.S. administration that has embraced Moscow and derided Kyiv. Strikingly, their efforts are taking place outside the major institutions that have helped order Europe for decades: the EU and NATO.

We are at a crossroads in history, a somber Starmer said after a summit Sunday that he convened in support of Kyiv, three years into a grinding war.

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A week of stunning reversals

Starmer spoke after a dizzying week in which Ukraine and its allies went from hope to gloom to grim resolve.

Diplomatic efforts to shore up American support for Kyiv appeared to be paying off as first Macron and then Starmer flew to Washington for talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. The meetings were cordial and Trump took a softer tone toward Ukraine, though he would not commit to providing U.S. security guarantees for Kyiv as part of a negotiated peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to sign a deal granting the U.S. access to rare earth minerals that, Kyiv and its allies hoped, would bind the countries closer together. But then came Fridays extraordinary on-camera berating of Zelenskyy by Trump and Vice President JD Vance, who accused Ukraines leader of being insufficiently grateful for U.S. support. Zelenskyy was asked to leave the White House without signing the deal.

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Starmer had already invited Zelenskyy, Macron and more than a dozen other leaders to London for a Sunday debrief. It now became a crisis summit. Starmer told them that European nations must do the heavy lifting to protect the continents security.

In addition to boosting defense spending, that means increasing support for Ukraine, drawing up a peace plan with Kyiv at its heart and bolstering Ukraines defenses after a ceasefire. As part of that plan, France and the U.K. are working to recruit other countries to send troops to Ukraine to protect a ceasefire in what Starmer calls a coalition of the willing.

In a stunning shift from just a few weeks ago, when the United States leading role in Ukraine was taken for granted, Starmer said the U.K., France and others will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting  and only then discuss it with the United States.

A new European order?

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Neither the EU nor NATO  two pillars of the postwar European order  are well placed to help Ukraine forge a path forward right now.

The EU is due to hold a summit on Ukraine on Thursday, but efforts to support Kyiv are constrained by the 27-nation blocs need for unanimity. Hungarys pro-Russia Prime Minister Viktor Orban is playing spoiler, opposing draft conclusions that center on the defense of Ukraine and its place at the negotiating table and urging the EU to follow the example of the United States and start direct discussions with Russia.

NATO, meanwhile, is facing a transatlantic rift as its most important member, the U.S., is led by a president who has long questioned the value of the alliance and now is pushing for a quick ceasefire that Ukraine and its allies fear will favor Russia.

Into the breach have stepped age-old frenemies, Britain and France  Europes only nuclear powers apart from Russia.

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Their two leaders both face major domestic problems. Macron has no majority in parliament. Starmer won a a landslide election victory in July but faces a sluggish economy and plummeting popularity.

They make a contrasting team  Macron outspoken, Starmer more reticent. Macron has strongly criticized Trumps statements that echo Russias narrative and American moves to negotiate with Moscow while sidelining Ukraine. Starmer talks of being a bridge between Europe and the U.S. administration and has refrained from directly criticizing Trump.

But they agree on the importance of supporting Ukraine against Russia in this moment  and there aren't a lot of other leaders who could fill the role. Germany, the other EU heavyweight along with France, is in between leaders as the winner of recent elections, Friedrich Merz, works to form a coalition.

Macron has long called for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defense, and was the first leader to suggest European troops could be deployed to Ukraine after a ceasefire.

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Pushing the narrative again, Macron suggested on Sunday that France and the U.K. were proposing a partial 30-day truce that would see fighting stop in the air, on the seas and energy infrastructures.

Starmers spokesman cautioned that is only one of various options on the table, and Macrons office acknowledged there is no agreement yet on details.

A bridge to nowhere?

In some ways, it's an extraordinary match-up five years after Britain left the European Union.

But even as testing times draw Britain closer to its European neighbors, Starmer still speaks of being a transatlantic bridge. He insisted Sunday that the U.S. remains an indispensable partner for Europe and that any Ukraine peace deal must have strong U.S. backing. British Defense Secretary John Healey plans to fly to Washington this week for talks with his U.S. counterpart Pete Hegseth.

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We must strengthen our relationship with America, Starmer told lawmakers on Monday. We will never choose between either side of the Atlantic.

For many Britons and Europeans, that is currently an unpopular sentiment. But Leslie Vinjamuri, director of the U.S. and Americas program at the Chatham House think tank, said Starmer understands the incredible significance of this moment for keeping the U.S. engaged.

The short-term urgent imperative is to keep America in, and to work with the U.S. to manage the future of a ceasefire, of a deal, of Ukraines position in Europe, she said. What's the alternative?

___

Associated Press writers Sylvie Corbet in Paris and Raf Casert in Brussels contributed to this story.
SpaceX on Monday will once again attempt to launch its Starship rocket from Texas.

It will mark the giant rockets eighth flight test.

In mid-January, Starships seventh flight test exploded over the Caribbean, causing debris to rain down near Turks and Caicos.

PREVIOUS: Investigation underway after SpaceX Starship rocket launch ends in explosion

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But SpaceX has noted upgrades made over the past several weeks.

After completing the investigation into the loss of Starship early on its seventh flight test, several hardware and operational changes have been made to increase reliability of the upper stage, the company said on its official website.

The upcoming flight will follow a similar path.

Liftoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.

After the launch, SpaceX will attempt to catch and recover its Super Heavy booster.

To learn more about Starships upcoming eighth flight test, click HERE.

Starship moved to the pad at Starbase ahead of its eighth flight test pic.twitter.com/SSwftPg89d  SpaceX (@SpaceX) March 2, 2025

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Crews battled wildfires in North and South Carolina on Sunday as residents were forced to evacuate in some areas.

The National Weather Service warned of increased fire danger in the region due to a combination of critically dry vegetation and very low relative humidity.

In South Carolina, where more than 175 fires burned 6.6 square miles, Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency to support the wildfire response effort, and a statewide burning ban remained in effect.

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Crews made progress containing a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, where residents had been ordered to evacuate several neighbourhoods, according to Horry County Fire Rescue.

Video showed some people running down the street as smoke filled the sky.

People evacuate from streets west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach - WMBF

Evacuees were allowed to return home later in the day and told to be on alert for reignitions.

The South Carolina Forestry Commission estimated Sunday evening that the blaze had burned 2.5 square miles (6.5 square kilometers) with 30 percent of it contained. No structures had succumbed to the blaze and no injuries had been reported as of Sunday morning, officials said.

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In North Carolina, the US Forest Service said fire crews were working to contain multiple wildfires burning in four forests across the state.

The largest, about 400 acres (162 hectares), was at Uwharrie National Forest, about 50 miles east of Charlotte. The Forest Service said that it had made progress on the fire by Sunday afternoon, reaching about one-third containment.

Over 170 fires were reported across the Carolinas - WMBF

The small southwestern town of Tryon in Polk County, North Carolina, urged some residents to evacuate Saturday as a fire spread rapidly there. The evacuations remained in effect Sunday.

A decision on whether to lift them was expected to be made Monday after intentional burns are set to try to stop the fire from spreading.

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That fire has burned about 500 acres (202 hectares) as of late Sunday, with zero percent containment, according to the Polk County Emergency Management/Fire Marshals office.

The North Carolina Forest Service was conducting water drops and back-burning operations on the ground, and area residents should expect a lot of smoke during those operations, officials said.

Officials have not said what caused any of the fires.

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JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.  State Representative Wick Thomas today introduced a house bill that aims to repeal the same-sex marriage ban in the state of Missouri.

HB 1459 seeks to eliminate provisional language that defines marriage exclusively as a union between a man and a woman. According to the bill, its purpose is to ensure that all couples, regardless of gender, are granted equal legal recognition.

Marriage is a basic human right, and states should not interfere with our personal freedom to choose same-sex marriage, Thomas said in the media release. All couples deserve to be recognized and respected in this state.

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According to the media release, Missouri statutes have provisional language that declares same-sex marriage as invalid, prohibiting marriage licenses from being given to same-sex couples.

HB 1459, however, looks to repeal the discriminatory policies, establishing that all marriages are valid and deserving of equal protection under law, the media release notes.

My marriage to my husband should not be in the hands of politicians, Thomas said. It is past time for Missouri to align its laws with the fundamental values of equality and justice.

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Sometimes, it's the little victories that can inspire much bigger change. For the people of Minnesota, the strictest ban of its kind in the country may just help save lives in the long run.

For decades, many companies have known about the harmful side effects of PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances. The group of chemicals is best known for its resistance to heat, water, oil, and grease.

On January 1, 2025, Amara's Law went into effect in Minnesota. The law prohibits the willful addition of PFAS to 11 product categories, including cleaning products, adult mattresses, automotive maintenance products, cookware, and others. By 2032, the law will expand to ban nearly all uses of PFAS.

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Amara's Law is named after Amara Strande, a Minnesota native who died from a rare liver cancer. Strande's cancer was attributed to a contaminated water source located next to a 3M plant outside of Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

A week after the PFAS law went into effect, the Cookware Sustainability Alliance filed a complaint against Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Commissioner Katrina Kessler. The organization is one of many fighting to prevent the ban of PFAS.

According to the Cookware Sustainability Alliance, not only is the ban discriminatory against out-of-state commerce, but it is also unconstitutional, violating the Commerce Clause. The clause was designed to prevent states from standing in the way of interstate commerce.

In response, the MPCA issued a statement urging the removal of harmful PFAS from the environment before it is too late. "It is estimated Minnesota taxpayers will have to spend $28 billion in the next 20 years to remove PFAS from wastewater and landfill leachate in the state; we simply cannot clean our way out of this problem," the MPCA said.

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According to the EPA, PFAS are extremely resistant to breaking down over time, leading to an excess of waste, which earned them their "forever chemicals" nickname. Additionally, PFAS have made their way into drinking water, food products, and personal care products.

According to the National Cancer Institute, forever chemicals like PFAS have been under scrutiny since their discovery in the 1940s. Researchers have worked for years to determine if PFAS may contribute to the development of hormone-related cancers such as breast, thyroid, and prostate cancer.

While PFAS do pose a threat to the environment and our health, actions like Amara's Law can help prevent further damage.

Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
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RIO RICO, Ariz.  U.S. gun companies are asking the Supreme Court this week to stop an unusual lawsuit from Mexico, a case that coincides with a critical moment for relations between the two countries. The lawsuit seeks to hold major firearms manufacturers accountable for gun violence in Mexico, testing long-standing protections from liability for the nation's firearms industry as President Donald Trump separately promises to take on Mexican drug cartels and illegal immigration. Trump is adding U.S. troops to the southern border and threatening to impose tariffs on Mexico as soon as Tuesday, the same day the lawsuit against the gunmakers will be argued at the high court. For years, Mexico's drug cartels have obtained most of their guns from the United States, according to U.S. and Mexican officials, in what anti-violence activists refer to as an "Iron River" of weapons. As fentanyl and other narcotics flow north, they say, the guns flow south. "Just as [American officials] are worried on the movement of drugs from Mexican territory to the United States, we are worried and working on the entry of weapons from the United States to Mexico," President Claudia Sheinbaum said during a recent news conference. "A lot of the drug abuse is in the United States, while the violence, the loss of lives, is in Mexico." Mexico alleges that U.S. firearms manufacturers know their guns are trafficked into Mexico and make deliberate design, marketing and distribution choices to retain and grow the profitable but illegal market. There's a special-edition Colt handgun known as the Super El Jefe pistol, a term used to refer to cartel bosses, and the Emiliano Zapata 1911 pistol, engraved with the Mexican revolutionary's pronouncement: "It is better to die standing than to live on your knees." Lawyers for the gun manufacturers - including Smith & Wesson Brands, Beretta USA, Glock, and Colt's Manufacturing Co. - declined to comment for this story. In court filings, they say the Mexican government is using the litigation to limit Second Amendment gun rights in the United States, which the conservative Supreme Court has expanded in recent years. They warn of harmful implications for other U.S. companies if the justices allow the foreign government's case to proceed. "In its zeal to attack the firearms industry, Mexico seeks to raze bedrock principles of American law that safeguard the whole economy," wrote Noel J. Francisco, who is representing the companies and was solicitor general during Trump's first term. There is good reason Mexican narcos seek U.S. weapons. Under Mexico's strict gun laws, it is extremely difficult for citizens to purchase a firearm. The country has only two legal gun stores - both run by the Mexican military. It can take months to complete the requirements for a purchase. While there are no firm figures on weapons trafficked from the United States into Mexico, a 2013 study by the University of San Diego estimated the number at 253,000 a year. Only a small fraction are confiscated. But the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives has found that at least two-thirds of the roughly 30,000 weapons seized in Mexico and sent for tracing per year originated in the United States. For two decades, U.S. law has provided broad protection for gunmakers from civil lawsuits filed by people injured by their firearms. Mexico's lawsuit is the first filed by a foreign government in U.S. courts over gun violence abroad. A U.S. district judge in Massachusetts dismissed the complaint in 2022, finding that the companies were shielded from liability by the 2005 Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. But the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 1st Circuit reversed the judge's decision based on a narrow exception to the law that allows suits against a gunmaker that knowingly violates state or federal statutes. The appeals court said Mexico had sufficiently alleged the companies have been "aiding and abetting" the illegal trafficking of guns by supplying dealers known to sell guns that cross the border. The gun companies are "not mere passive observers of the buyer's illegal activity, but more akin to a calculated and willing participant in the supply chain that ends with a profitable illegal firearm market in Mexico," the unanimous three-judge panel wrote.  Rings of gun buyers

Most American weapons seized in Mexico originate in either Arizona or Texas. The most active gun-trafficking route runs from Phoenix to the Nogales border, U.S. officials say.

Last month, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents stopped a vehicle heading across the border with 42 AK-47 rifles. "That's a significant load of dangerous or powerful firearms," Michael Humphries, the CBP director in Nogales, Arizona, said in an interview. "We're not getting stuff that they're going to go dove hunting" with.

Such weapons are often trafficked through "straw purchasers" - U.S. citizens with no criminal records who are recruited to buy weapons for others who aren't eligible.

Criminal cases in U.S. courts illustrate how the illicit market works.

Javier Ramos-Velderrain was a 19-year-old college student when he walked into a gun store in Tucson in June 2020. Employees were happy to sell him an AK-47-style semiautomatic rifle.

Within four days, he returned for another.

Then, in a shop outside Phoenix that fall, he purchased a .50-caliber Barrett sniper rifle, capable of shooting armor-piercing bullets the size of carrots. Three weeks later, CBP officers spotted the weapon in a blue bag in a Chevy Suburban van crossing from Nogales, Arizona, into Mexico. It turned out to be one of 15 rifles and pistols packed into the vehicle, bound for Mexican crime groups.

Arms smugglers will often assemble a ring of buyers like Ramos, then gather the weapons and transport them over the border.

At the time of his arrest, Ramos was working part time at Panda Express and at a call center. He spent $15,833.97 on firearms from a variety of stores during a period in which he earned only a few thousand dollars from his legitimate jobs, prosecutors said in court records. Ramos was paid $1,000 per gun purchase, they said.

He was convicted in October 2023 of making a false statement while buying the sniper rifle, and sentenced last year to 21 months in prison. His lawyer, Charles Thomas, declined to comment.

The driver of the van packed with the 15 weapons had an even more surprising profile. Luis Manuel Bray-Vazquez was a Mexican employed as a driver for the U.S. consulate just over the border from Nogales, Arizona, according to court documents.

He used official U.S. vehicles to smuggle weapons to a criminal organization in Mexico, earning $150 for each rifle and $50 for each pistol he ferried, according to a U.S. criminal complaint. Bray-Vazquez pleaded guilty to weapons smuggling charges and was sentenced to nearly four years in prison.

 The legal argument

As part of its lawsuit, Mexico is seeking billions in financial damages to account for the cost to its military, police and judicial system from cartel violence fueled by U.S.-made weapons.

Nearly half a million Mexicans have been killed since the government declared a "war on drugs" in 2006, including politicians Mexico City's police chief and journalists. More than 100,000 people are registered as disappeared.

The appeals court said the government's suit could proceed despite strong federal protections for the gunmakers because it was "foreseeable that Mexican drug cartels - armed with defendants' weapons - would use those weapons to commit violent crimes" that caused the Mexican government to incur costs.

Jonathan Lowy, president of Global Action on Gun Violence who is co-counsel to Mexico, said the issue before the Supreme Court should have broad appeal.

If people are concerned about the trafficking of fentanyl and overdoses in the United States or migration from Mexico to the United States, he said, "they should also be concerned about stopping the crime-gun pipeline to Mexico, because that pipeline facilitates all of those problems."

The gun manufacturers say their alleged connection to the harm is too tenuous, noting that Mexico has not shown that the firearms industry is coordinating with illicit sellers, smugglers or cartels.

When a criminal misuses a lawful product, the companies say, the criminal is responsible for his actions, not the manufacturer or seller. They argue that under Mexico's theory, a company like Budweiser could be liable for failing to cut off the supply of beer to college town bars filled with underage drinkers.

David Kopel, an adjunct scholar at the libertarian Cato Institute, joined a brief on behalf of the National Rifle Association in support of the companies. It says Mexico-style cases could "bankrupt the American firearms industry  despite failing to allege that the manufacturers violated any law, were aware of any unlawful sale, or took any affirmative act intended to further a crime."

 An interstate lined with gun shops

On the U.S. side of the border, there are more than 100 gun stores tucked along the 70-mile stretch of Interstate 19 from Tucson to Nogales, according to a separate lawsuit filed by Mexico against several Arizona gun dealers.

Many are low-key establishments in shopping plazas or on quiet roads.

The suit says the vast majority of guns recovered from crime scenes in Mexico come from a small number of U.S. dealers.

At Baja AZ Guns, a few miles from the Mexican border, Susan Andersen says she watches for suspicious types - the young person who wants to buy a $15,000, top-of-the-line .50-caliber sniper rifle, or the purchaser who comes in often buying a lot of weapons.

With gray hair and rhinestone-trimmed glasses, she looks like a grandmother, she acknowledges. But her earrings are tiny jeweled handguns, and she's got a pistol strapped to her ankle. She's a New Yorker and a former corrections officer at Rikers Island.

If she can help it, no one will get away with anything at her shop in Rio Rico, Arizona, she said.

If she can help it, no one will get away with anything at her shop in Rio Rico, Arizona, she said.

"Am I psychic? No. I do the best I can."

Unlike a popular stereotype, "we're not here handing guns out to people," Andersen said. "The vast majority of gun shops follow the rules."
IT services, consulting, and business solutions provider Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has announced a collaborative engagement with MassRobotics, the largest independent robotics hub in the world dedicated to advancing robotics and connected devices.

Through this collaboration, TCS says it aims to support MassRobotics mission to foster robotics innovation by engaging with startups, researchers, and industry leaders exploring applications focused on sectors such as retail, travel, transportation, hospitality, and consumer products.

As part of this initiative, TCS will have an on-site presence at MassRobotics' facility in Boston. This will allow TCS to directly collaborate with innovative robotics startups, research institutions, and industry leaders, notes TCS, adding that it will engage with MassRobotics community by providing technical expertise, mentorship, and industry insights while gaining exposure to emerging robotics trends and innovations, such as physical AI and robotics for specialised sectors, and the collaboration will leverage TCS deep expertise in AI, machine learning, and automation to advance robotics technologies for both technical and commercial applications across industries where robots enhance human work.

According to TCS, the alliance strengthens itscommitment to shaping the future of robotics by addressing the rising demand for automation across industries. The robotics market continues to expand, with the International Federation of Robotics projecting over 3 million units to be installed around the world in 2025. By combining TCS technology expertise, contextual knowledge, and global reach with MassRobotics innovation ecosystem, the initiative seeks to drive the development of cutting-edge robotics solutions that meet evolving business needs.

Tom Ryden, Executive Director, MassRobotics, said, We are excited to partner with TCS to bring innovative robotics solutions to market faster and more efficiently. TCS global reach and deep technological expertise will complement our mission to support robotics innovation and create new avenues for growth in industries that are adopting robotics solutions.

MassRobotics notes: This collaboration is a testament to TCS mission to foster technological advancement in North America. With more than 46,000 associates and 32 sales, delivery, and data center locations across North America, TCS is a trusted partner for half of the Fortune 500. Notable initiatives in the region include the launch of the TCS Bringing Life to Things IoT and Digital Engineering lab in Cincinnati, Ohio, as well as TCS Pace PortTM co-innovation centers at Cornell Tech in New York City, Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and at TCS campus in Toronto, Canada. This year, TCS was recognised in Fortune Magazines Worlds Most Admired CompaniesTM list, reaffirming its position as a leading employer in North America.

Krishnan Ramanujam, President  Consumer Business Group, TCS, said, As robotics continues to gain traction across industriesfrom retail to transportationthe potential to transform businesses and society is immense. Working alongside MassRobotics, TCS aims to accelerate the development of cutting-edge solutions that will not only streamline operations but also deliver new levels of innovation and efficiency. Together, we are helping to shape a world where robotics and intelligent automation empower industries and enrich lives.

The two companies say the project will focus on several key initiatives aimed at fostering growth in the robotics sector, including:

Joint Research and Development Initiatives: Collaborating on new robotics technologies to address emerging challenges in automation and AI.

Collaborating on new robotics technologies to address emerging challenges in automation and AI. Industry Solutions: Developing industry-specific applications for robotics in sectors such as retail, travel, transportation, hospitality, and consumer products, and more.

Developing industry-specific applications for robotics in sectors such as retail, travel, transportation, hospitality, and consumer products, and more. Startup Ecosystem: Supporting early-stage robotics startups with access to TCS' global resources, technology platforms, and expertise.

Supporting early-stage robotics startups with access to TCS' global resources, technology platforms, and expertise. Innovation and Commercialisation: Helping bridge the gap between innovative research and real-world applications, ensuring that groundbreaking technologies reach the market faster.

TCS has developed strong capabilities in robotics, leveraging automation and AI, to help clients optimise operations and enhance productivity. It has expertise in developing autonomous robots and collaborative robots (cobots) that can work alongside humans to improve efficiency and safety. TCS continues to invest in the future of robotics, positioning itself as a trusted partner for organisations seeking to harness the potential of robotics to address complex business challenges, the statement concludes.
(WJET/WFXP) St. Patricks Day is just around the corner with plenty of Irish festivities and Pennsylvania State Police are reminding residents to celebrate responsibly.

PSP Meadville announced Monday theyll be conducting sobriety checkpoints from March 14-16 in Crawford County to deter driving under the influence over the holiday weekend.

Remote Area Medical coming to Ashtabula Co. for free clinic

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Police are reminding residents to appoint a designated sober driver should they choose to drink while celebrating or take anything that may impair ones ability to drive.

In 2023, there were 56 alcohol-related crashes statewide, resulting in two fatalities, and 32 injuries during St. Patricks Day weekend.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJET/WFXP/YourErie.com.
A man was arrested Sunday for reportedly going 115 mph on Interstate 91 in Rocky Hill where he allegedly refused to stop for a trooper and began passing other drivers.

A trooper on patrol on I-91 North near Exit 24 shortly after 12:20 p.m. spotted the driver in a blue BMW 330i going what appeared to be faster than 100 mph, according to Connecticut State Police. The trooper found that the driver was going 115 mph before initiating a motor vehicle stop.

State police said the motorist refused to stop despite the troopers lights and sirens. The driver then allegedly accelerated and began recklessly passing other drivers in both shoulders and the gore areas of the highway, according to state police.

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The trooper abandoned the stop out of public safety concerns and was able to use the vehicles registration information to find the home of the owner. Residents of the home were able to identify the driver as 22-year-old Shoaib Noori of Meriden, according to state police.

Noori later returned to the residence to speak with troopers and confirmed he was the driver, state police said. He was arrested on charges of disobeying the signal of an officer, failure to maintain lane, reckless driving, passing on the right, interfering with an officer and first-degree reckless endangerment.

Noori was later released on $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear in New Britain Superior Court on March 20.
State legislators are looking at ways to bolster protections for their consumers after Donald Trumps vow to close down the federal watchdog and impose exorbitant tariffs on foreign trade partners.

Officials in states including Massachusetts and Illinois are among those warning that the shuttering of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will have dire effects on vulnerable consumers including veterans and the elderly.

Founded in 2010 by Senator Elizabeth Warren, the CFPB was established to monitor credit card companies, mortgage providers, debt collectors and other segments of the consumer finance industry. It creates and enforces rules to protect consumers from unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices.

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The CFPB is one of the latest U.S. government agencies to have its work halted by the Trump administration and Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency.

At a forum earlier this week Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell called the weakening of the bureau a national emergency and said that some states were stepping away wholeheartedly from work on protecting their own consumers.

Founded in 2010 by Senator Elizabeth Warren (pictured), the CFPB was established to monitor credit card companies, mortgage providers, debt collectors and other segments of the consumer finance industry (AP)

Its not consistent  what were doing in Massachusetts  in every single state across the country, she said. So you will have elders and veterans and other consumers who are left out without anyone to fight for them on their behalf, with no resources and weapons to fight back.

Illinois state Senator Mark Walker was already working on legislation to help consumers, but said that in the wake of Trumps moves against the CFPB, that the urgency is much higher now.

The CFPB is one of the latest U.S. government agencies to have its work halted by the Trump administration and Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency. (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

They apparently closed the doors and put everyone on leave, he told Stateline. And I think its become critical now that we figure out exactly what we do to respond to these kinds of issues that consumers in Illinois have.

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The work of the CFPB has long-since been targeted by conservatives, who complain the independent agency, funded by the Federal Reserve System, lacks sufficient supervision and regularly exceeds its regulatory authority.

Last month, Russell Vought, the newly installed director of the Office of Management and Budget, told the CFPB to stop its investigations and work on proposed rules.

He instructed the agency to suspend the enforcement dates of any rules that had been finalized but not yet put into effect, and closed the CFPB's offices for a week.

Critics warn that the closing of the CFPB will have dire effects on vulnerable consumers including veterans and the elderly (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Trumps actions against the CFPB have already been challenged in court. Last month, 23 states and the District of Columbia asked a federal judge in the Baltimore case to issue an injunction blocking the administration from defunding the agency.

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The states argued they will suffer permanent damage by losing the CFPBs processing of consumer complaints, data collection and distribution of money to harmed consumers.

In addition, just prior to Trumps return to office in January, the CFPB released guidance on how states could strengthen their own consumer protections. The guidance highlighted previous ways in which states had authority to enforce federal rules.

Federal law should be a floor, not a ceiling, for the protection of consumers, the report said.
PEORIA, Ill (WMBD)  Gertie the groundhog has had her say, but nothing says hello spring like Marchtoberfest.

Jeff Pulfer, of the Peoria Area German Society, told WMBD This Morning, the real meaning of Marchtoberfest. The beer for the first Octoberfest was all made in March. He was quick to add that its also a halfway to Octoberfest event.

Pulfer then fast forwarded to current events. Marchtoberfest is Sunday March 2nd, Noon till 8pm, at the Lindhoff, 7601 N Harker Dr, Peoria. It costs 15 dollars for adults but even less if you wear your favorite Dirndl or Lederhosen. The fee includes lots of your favorite accordion music and food. The all you can eat buffet includes the famous Munich Special several other main dishes, and desserts.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CIProud.com.
CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)  Stop & Shop and the union representing warehouse workers and delivery drivers have reached a tentative contract agreement, avoiding a potential strike.

Parents, educators to protest against potential job cuts in Belchertown school district

The Teamsters Union and Stop & Shop were at odds over proposed changes to the workers healthcare plan, NBC Boston states. According to a statement, both sides reached an agreement on Friday on a new, six-year contract that will keep the Freetown Distribution Center in operation and preserve more than 900 jobs. If that contract agreement wasnt reached, both sides had threatened to take action.

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The statement didnt share specific details on what was in the agreement. Teamsters Local 25 members working at the distribution center will have the opportunity to vote on the new contract within the next week.

Stop & Shop had said during the dispute that it was seeking to reduce labor costs at the Freetown facility by implementing a new health plan, and that, without a deal, it would make plans to close the facility and outsource the work to a third party. Teamsters Local 25 had said the proposal they rejected would have required workers to contribute 20 percent of the costs and threatened to strike at locations across New England if the warehouse was shut down.

Local News Headlines

WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Sweat streamed down Talita Ferreira Sanches face as she pushed a cart loaded with beer and water up the winding, cobblestone streets in Rio de Janeiro last month, calling out to glitter-covered revelers decked out in fishnet tights.

The 22-year-old from an area outside Rio had spent the night sleeping on a street in bohemian neighborhood Santa Teresa, covering herself with just a sheet, so she could arrive in time for the early-morning Carnival party Heaven on Earth.

Carnival represents a lot of joy and all the money that we make, said Ferreira Sanches, who has worked as a street vendor for the last four years. She makes around 1,500 reais ($260) a day during Carnival  about the same as the country's monthly minimum wage.

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Every year, we have an objective. Last year we bought a fridge and a television, this year we want to buy a wardrobe and a stove, she said, pocketing cash with one hand while dishing out ice-cold drinks with the other.

Like musicians and stilt walkers, vendors are a fixture at Rio's street parties. Known in Portuguese as ambulantes or camelos," they scour Instagram pages for times and locations, coordinate on WhatsApp groups, then race across parks and up hills, from Rios downtown to Copacabana beach, all to place themselves and their carts in the thronging crush of thousands  or hundreds of thousands  of thirsty revelers.

An economic lifeline

Peddlers provide much-needed party fuel and hydration, and can themselves partake in the buzzing, joyous atmosphere. More than that, though, it's an economic lifeline, allowing them to pay off debts, buy presents for their kids and set them up for the rest of the year.

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But as opportunity to cash in has grown, more and more vendors have joined the rush  and drawn pushback. There are nearly 500 registered street parties this year, and hundreds more unofficial ones, considerably more than the pre-pandemic era, and they all need cold beer and water.

Rios City Hall conducted a lottery for 15,000 authorized vendors at this years Carnival  5,000 more than last year, but observers say there are far more vendors than spots.

Selling without a permit renders them vulnerable to harassment, seizure of their merchandise and even violence from Rios municipal guard, according to the United Street Vendors' Movement  known by its acronym MUCA.

The ballooning number of vendors in recent years has created tensions with party organizers, said Pericles Monteiro, the director of Heaven on Earth, which he founded in 2001. Party facilitators and revelers have accused hawkers of blockading the procession by setting up shop in the middle of its path with their heavy carts.

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We couldnt walk, we felt suffocated, Monteiro said of Heaven on Earth's procession two years ago. The group didnt get to the square where the show was supposed to end on time, and had to walk almost in silence until reaching the designated area. When they got there, peddlers had barbecues fired up and vans parked in the street, leaving little room for performers, musicians or revelers.

We support street vendors. People have to work and they have an important role. We are aware of that. But the way it has been done, the intensity  there really has been a serious problem hindering the partys development, Monteiro added.

Mess with harmony

Vendors are aware of the grievances, and the impact on their reputation. This year, union SindInformal and other groups launched a campaign to promote respect, proper organization and security during Carnival, and recommended buying from vendors surrounding the party rather than in the middle of the mayhem.

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Fear of repercussions and clashes also prompted MUCA to produce a manifesto this year calling for mess with harmony. The document said criticism and attacks targeting vendors spark backlash against an already marginalized community.

Vendors are seen as dangerous, as tarnishing the citys reputation, as causing public disorder, said Flavia Magalhaes, who researches street sellers at the Paulista University in Sao Paulo. But vendors sustain a festive street culture that is very important for the citys tourism.

They also face dire working conditions, struggling to access toilets, working long hours without stopping for food and struggling to find a legal place to leave their merchandise, according to a 2019 report by MUCA and Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. They often spend hours on public transport each day trekking into the city from the poor periphery.

Carnival daycare center

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During Carnival, being based in the city center is a game-changer, said Maria de Lourdes do Carmo, 50, known as Maria of the Street Vendors.

Do Carmo has been a vendor for three decades, often hawking caipirinhas to foreign tourists in Santa Teresa's cobblestone hills; the municipal guard doesn't tend to crackdown up there, she said. She ran for a city council seat in last years election to fight for greater respect for her peers, but lost.

Since last year, Rio state's public prosecutors have been leading discussions on preventing violence against itinerant workers while also trying to tackle the municipality's failure to better organize their activity, for example by providing sanctioned deposits for their goods.

And City Hall this year is attending to a long-standing demand, including by vendors' rights group Women for Women Providencia, for childcare services. Authorities will provide a daycare center for vendors children during street parties and samba schools parades, with food, cultural activities and games, Rios department of social assistance said in an email.

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For Debora Silva Pereira, 42, enduring the long, exhausting days away from her family is worth it, firstly because Carnival buoys her family's income. On a good day, she makes 3,000 reais  what she normally earns in 10 days during the rest of the year, selling women's clothing. But she also enjoys the mixture of work and play.

We meet people and make friends. The money makes it worth it, but experiences even more so, she said.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Mar. 2ROCHESTER  With U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement taking immigrants into custody in Rochester and the Trump administration promising the largest deportation effort in U.S. history, more than 200 people rallied in support of immigrants in downtown Rochester Sunday afternoon, March 2, 2025.

Members of the group, the student-led Rochester Community Initiative, decried deportation of immigrants, splitting of families and the fear recent immigration actions are causing among the Rochester immigrant community.

"RCI refuses to sit back as people are erased from the communities they helped build," said Anousha Mozammel, a board member and organizer with RCI.

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The student-led Rochester Community Initiative organized the event, attended mostly by students. It started with a rally outside the city-county Government Center followed by a march. The group walked from the Government Center to Broadway, to Second Street Southwest to Mayo Civic Center. The group made multiple circles along the route, carrying signs and chanting slogans, amid honks from passing cars.

Speakers at the rally included student organizers, student immigrants and teachers from Rochester Public Schools.

Christina Freund, a Mayo High School Spanish teacher, gave a bilingual speech and urged students to speak out in support of immigrants in the community and schools.

"This event is necessary because the people in danger don't feel safe using their voices," Freund said. "Right now, we need that allyship."

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Mayo High School 10th grader Annika Cmeil said that's why she attended the rally.

"I wanted to be here to be a voice for people who aren't able to speak up," she said while carrying a sign that read, "No human is illegal."

Ava Tiede, an immigrant and Rochester Community and Technical College student, attended the rally after learning about it and decided to show her support for other members of the immigrant community.

"What America is doing is not okay," she said. "You don't separate families."

Mozamme said that the rally was in response to recent news of enforcement action by ICE officials in Rochester and a chance to show the community where young people stand amid polarization in policy. Mozammel said she hasn't seen that polarization as prevalent in school as elsewhere, but nevertheless fear is growing among students from immigrant families and their friends.

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"The feeling of fear that permeated the community has filtered into the schools, unfortunately," she said.

Maeva Djossou, a Mayo High School student whose family immigrated from Morocco in 2010, spoke at the rally and read a poem she had written. She expressed hurt for her fellow immigrant students. She said she has lost much of her native language skill, but still is treated by people in the community as an outsider.

"Despite losing my mother's tongue, there will always be those who remind me I'm an immigrant," she said.

Following the march, Mozammel asked the people attending to continue to help the immigrant community speak up.

"Our work isn't done," she said.
Student Support Program Coordinator (Native American Resource Center)

Department: Counseling Services (Dept)

Palomar College

Date Opened: 02/27/2025

Close Date: 03/17/2025

Primary Function:

Coordinates, organizes and oversees the daily operations, activities, events and support services of a District student support program, working with diverse student populations which may include underserved/underrepresented students; provides information to students on programs, services and counseling; monitors program budget; acts as a liaison between the program and other departments, community partners, governmental agencies, or other educational institutions; acts as a resource in response to sensitive matters related to program students and their needs.

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Salary: $5,733.10

Benefits: In addition to a competitive compensation structure, Palomar College also offers an extremely generous benefits package.

 Insurance fully paid for employees and their eligible dependents: four medical plans, dental HMO , and the vision plan (additional plans are available that require employee buy up/monthly contribution)

 Vacation, sick leave and 25 paid holidays

 $80,000 employee term life/accident insurance policy (additional buy up options available)

 Employee long-term care insurance

 Employee Assistance Plan (EAP )  Confidential free counseling, financial, legal, personal and professional development resources for all members of your household

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 Additional buy up options available for other voluntary insurance benefits

 Enrollment in CalPERS (California Public Employees Retirement System)

The estimated maximum value of this employer-paid benefits package is approximately $31,245.84 annually.

Minimum Qualifications:

To be eligible for this position, you must meet and provide evidence of the following minimum qualifications:

 Experience: Four years of related experience working with underserved/underrepresented students or a similar population, or administrative support experience. Alternative qualification when assigned to the Native American Resource Center: Lived experience with Tribal Nations (preference shall be given to qualified candidates of American Indian or Alaskan Native Heritage (Federal Indian Preference Act of 1990); applicants claiming Indian Preference are required to submit verification of Indian heritage certified by tribe of affiliation or other acceptable documentation of Indian heritage).

AND

 Education: Equivalent to an associate degree from an accredited college or university.

Note:

 For work experience, a year is defined as equivalent to 40 hours per week for 12 months. If the position requires supervisory experience, the experience must be at a professional level (i.e. evaluation and/or discipline of staff).

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 Transcripts must be included to receive credit for education and/or to substitute education in lieu of experience (i.e. Bachelors degree = 4 years of experience). https://www.palomar.edu/hr/wp-content/uploads/sites/157/2017/02/Guidelines-for-MQs-Acceptable-Equivalents-5.2019.pdf.

 Only coursework completed at, and degrees awarded by, accredited institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education will be considered as satisfying the minimum qualifications. Coursework and degrees that are completed outside of the United States are required to have transcripts evaluated (evaluation to U.S. equivalency and a course by course analysis) by an appropriate U.S. credentials evaluation service. For a list of credentials evaluation agencies accepted by Palomar College, visit the National Association of Credentials Evaluation Services (NACES ) website at https://www.naces.org/index, or the Association of International Credential Evaluators, Inc. (AICE ) website at http://aice-eval.org/.

Diversity Statement: Palomar College serves over 30,000 students from a variety of backgrounds and we are proud to be a Hispanic Serving Institution. Our student body is rich in its diversity. Click here to see a quick overview of our student demographics on our recent Student Fact Sheet.

Palomar College is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, access and antiracism. We are dedicated to empowering students to succeed and are guided by our core values; some of which are the following:

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 Access - We make education possible for everyone.

 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion - We recognize and respect diversity, seek to foster a culture of inclusion and belonging, and strive to address inequities.

All positions require cultural competency which includes the sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, faculty, and staff.

To Apply: Visit https://apptrkr.com/6042338 for full details and required application materials.

About the District:

Palomar College, founded in 1946, is a comprehensive, two-year community college that serves the greater North San Diego County region. Palomar College offers over 200 associate degrees and certificate programs to approximately 25,000 full- and part-time students. A favorite in the community among local institutions of higher education, the College is recognized as one of the top 100 Colleges and Universities in the nation for serving Hispanic students. Palomar College is just 12 miles from the Pacific Ocean and 30 miles away from all of the exciting cultural activities that San Diego has to offer.

Palomar College is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Copyright 2024 Jobelephant.com Inc. All rights reserved.
Dual enrollment programs are helping Nebraska high school students earn college credit and in some cases associates degrees before graduation. Shown is the downtown Lincoln campus of Southeast Community College. (Aaron Sanderford/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Soon after beginning her studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, McKenzie Murphy, then 19, applied for a part-time job.

She had graduated from high school only a few months earlier, but Murphys application also read graduate, associates degree, Northeast Community College.

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Her interviewer didnt believe that someone so young could have a two-year college degree.

Oh my gosh, when did you graduate? Murphy was asked.

In May of 2023, Murphy received her diploma from Bancroft-Rosalie High School. But because she had participated in a state dual enrollment program, she also earned a college degree by taking college-level classes while in high school  classes that came with both college and high school credits.

During her last semester of high school, Murphy took 21 credit hours of such dual enrollment classes, completing a lot of general education courses normally taken at colleges or universities, but also learning about investing.

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I like to stay busy, she said.

A strong head start

This year, more than 20,000 Nebraska high school students at more than 200 schools across the state are taking dual enrollment classes, with hundreds each year, like Murphy, graduating with two diplomas when they finish high school.

MacKenzie Murphy, a sophomore at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, earned an associates degree from a community college upon her graduation from high school. She is one of hundreds of Nebraska high school students who benefit from a dual enrollment program. (Courtesy of MacKenzie Murphy)

Students, including those home-schooled or in private schools, get discounted tuition when taking the classes. In two areas of the state, tuition and books are free, those served by Omaha-based Metropolitan Community College and Norfolk-centered Northeast Community College.

But the future affordability of the program for families statewide is being threatened by a reduction in funding.

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The $5 million a year from the federal pandemic-related American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is going away, leaving only $3 million a year in state funding remaining.

On Thursday, several administrators of community colleges and Nebraska high schools joined a student and a representative of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry in testifying in favor of state legislation to keep the program affordable for high school students and their families. It would provide an additional $21 million over the next two years to continue.

Supporters of the additional funding praised the program as jump-starting student higher education, which they said leads to higher rates of college enrollment and earlier graduation. It also gets students into the workforce sooner, in high-need jobs like welding, teaching and health care, and is a proven way to reverse the brain drain exodus of educated young people from Nebraska.

This maybe has been the most successful higher education partnership with K-12 education and business in all my years in education, said Randy Schmailzl, the long-time president of Metropolitan Community College, which had nearly 9,000 dual enrollment students this year.

Students, schools embrace program

Mark Shepard, the superintendent of Fremont Public Schools, said the program had helped boost a local career and technical education program that has trained 200 student welders over the past nine years. Seventy of those trained are now working in well-paying, high-demand jobs in the state, he said.

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We view these programs as a true game changer for our state, Shepard said of the technical training offered in Fremont through dual enrollment.

Murphy, whose family lives in Walthill, said she could not have taken the classes she did if she had been required to pay full tuition, which is $108 per credit hour at Northeast Community College.

At her high school, students have taken 790 credit hours of tuition-free dual enrollment classes this year with eight of the 18 members of the senior class on track to graduate with community college associate degrees, according to Jon Cerny, superintendent at Bancroft-Rosalie.

At Millard Public Schools, 2,200 students took dual enrollment classes last year, earning 26,000 credits. Superintendent John Schwartz said that added up to just short of $2 million in tuition that families didnt have to pay.

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The result, the two educators told members of the Legislatures Appropriations Committee, is that students complete college sooner and with less debt, and are able to graduate earlier and join the Nebraska workforce.

Its hard to find a better program that supports young people and our economy, said Michael Johnson of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, who called the states shortage of workers the number-one barrier to economic growth in the state.

This program presents a win-win-win opportunity for all of us, said State Sen. Jason Prokop of Lincoln.

Bill offers replacement funding

His proposal, Legislative Bill 173, would provide $10 million for the dual enrollment program in 2025-26 and $11 million the following year.

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Prokop said it exceeds the $5 million a year in ARPA funds that are going away because that money hasnt covered all costs of the program, which are nearing $20 million a year. He said funding also hasnt kept up with the 65% increase in students taking the courses.

This program produces a pipeline of skilled labor that Nebraska employers desperately need, the senator told the committee.

LB 173 wasnt included in the preliminary budget recommendations of the Appropriations Committee, which is now taking testimony on its proposed budget. Senators are seeking to close a budget gap, leaving little funding for new spending.

Omaha State Sen. Christy Armendariz, a member of the committee, praised the program. But more than once, she asked whether other funds  rather than state taxpayer money  might be found to finance the dual enrollment program, or whether it could be more focused on families who could not afford to pay the tuition.

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An official with Northeast Community College said that institution doesnt have the funds to continue to offer free tuition on its own, and would have to start charging students. Schmailzl said that when Metro used to offer the classes at 50% of full tuition, it cut a lot of people out.

Shepard, the Fremont superintendent, said that 40 some businesses have contributed to the vocational programs in his district, but that ending free tuition, or having students fill out a waiver to get a tuition break, would present barriers.

No immediate action

The Appropriations Committee took no action on the bill after the public hearing on Thursday. It received 70 online comments in support of the bill and no opposition.

Murphy, the UNO student, wasnt able to attend the public hearing. Shes working three part-time jobs as she pursues her pre-medicine degree in hopes of eventually becoming an ophthalmologist.

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Besides saving money and getting a jump start on her university studies, she said dual enrollment and the rigors of college classes forced her to get more organized. She made a daily list of what she needed to get done each day.

It also helped her get hired.

When you see someone who graduates with an associate degree, they realize thats a hard-working person, Murphy said.

SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Mar. 2Students and faculty at the University of Alaska are pushing back against a recent decision by the Board of Regents to strike "diversity, equity and inclusion" language at the university and to change programs, if necessary, to comply with state and federal nondiscrimination laws and guidance.

The board's decision came after the Trump administration called for educational institutions to remove race-based policies or face federal funding cuts.

The motion called for changing positions, office titles, websites and published materials so they no longer use the terms "affirmative action," "DEI," "diversity," "equity" or "inclusion," as well as related terms. In place of those words, the university system will use language "consistent with the values of equal access and equal opportunity for all," the board's motion said.

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Resolutions passed in response by student and faculty leaders in the system fault the board for a lack of public notice before its Feb. 21 action. They argue that the board acted even though it's unclear if the federal guidance is legal. A federal judge, also on Feb. 21, issued an injunction against executive orders from the president that target diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

[Earlier coverage: University of Alaska to review programs, strike DEI language in response to Trump administration warning]

Abel Bult-Ito, president of the Faculty Senate at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, said Friday that "most faculty are stunned this happened without any notification or chance to discuss it."

"Scrubbing our websites of DEI is in my view illegal, because it infringes on my First Amendment rights and on the rights of all the other students and faculty and staff at the university," said Bult-Ito, a professor of neurobiology and neurophysiology.

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Ralph Seekins, the chair of the Board of Regents, said in an interview that he doesn't criticize opponents for speaking out. But he said he believes they do not understand the risk the university faced of losing some $200 million in federal funds.

A Jan. 20 executive order from Trump was among the key federal actions the board considered in its decision, he said. That order rescinded a 60-year-old order from President Lyndon B. Johnson that required federal contractors to create affirmative action programs to promote equal employment opportunities.

That was followed by a memorandum from the Office of the Attorney General saying the Department of Justice will investigate, eliminate and penalize illegal DEI programs, Seekins said.

Next, on Feb. 14, a U.S. Education Department letter to schools said they could lose federal funding if they considered race in employment decisions, scholarships, financial aid and "all other aspects of student, academic, and campus life." Schools had two weeks to comply.

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The short timeline and complicated issues at hand are factors in why there wasn't advance notice on the agenda, Seekins said. He said the temporary injunction is not the final word, and the board needed to take action to protect the university.

"What do people want us to do?" Seekins said. "Jeopardize funding for the university system? For all the jobs and the families that rely on it?"

"And we don't think that it's a bad step to say, 'You know what we're going to do? We are going to mandate that nobody is discriminated against, and that there is equal opportunity for everyone,'" Seekins said. "And we already know we have an open admissions program. Everybody is welcome to come here. Everybody. What's wrong with that? That looks like inclusion to me."

Student and faculty leaders have called on the board to rescind the motion.

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The criticism includes:

The Coalition of Student Leaders of the University of Alaska passed a resolution this week demanding that student services related to diversity, equity and inclusion not be shut down. It called for disclosure of the legal analysis that led to the regents' action. It warned that minorities could potentially be excluded from equitable enrollment.

The board's "hasty actions set a dangerous precedent of immediate compliance with the current administration. Complying with this particular order before it is challenged paves the way to giving up everything the University, and by extension, all its students, hold dearly," the coalition of student leaders said.

Chairs of the Faculty Alliance in a letter also published as an op-ed that called the board's decision short-sighted and fearful. They questioned its legality, noting the federal court's injunction.

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"Your fearful decision either cowers or bows before an executive who knows nothing about us and who is willing to violate the Constitution, elevating Article 2 above all else," the letter said, a reference to the portion of the U.S. Constitution that outlines the president's executive powers.

The Faculty Alliance chairs represent faculty at the system's three universities in Anchorage, Fairbanks and Juneau.

Jackie Cason, the University of Alaska Anchorage Faculty Senate president and an author of the letter, said in an interview Friday that the board "should have engaged stakeholders more fully" before their vote.

"We want to them to be open to further dialogue," she said of the regents.

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She said she understand that the regents were "under pressure to comply (with the Trump administration), but the way they went about it felt like they were willing partners, and not merely acting under duress."

She said students at the university in Fairbanks just held a diversity dance, while Anchorage students are planning an event to celebrate diversity.

"I would call these an affirmative response to the value of DEI terms," said Cason, a professor of writing.

The Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program of the University of Alaska Fairbanks passed a resolution called "In Support of Free Speech and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion." It says many groups would be harmed by removing all references to diversity, equity, and inclusion on the university's website, including African-Americans, Asian-Americans, Latine and Alaska Natives. It says that "informing Indigenous faculty members and others that they cannot use" DEI words on websites is "an act of discrimination" that violates university policy.

A similar motion is expected to be voted on by the UAF Faculty Senate on Monday, said Bult-Ito.

"I think it will be overwhelmingly approved," he said.
Australia's first state gov-funded satellite, Kanyini, has delivered its first images from space, marking a significant milestone for the space mission.

The achievement involved South Australias pioneering satellite, Kanyini, which was deployed on SpaceXs Transporter-11 mission last August, and has spent 194 days in Low Earth Orbit, closely monitored by the mission control team at Inovor Technologies, based at Adelaides Lot Fourteen innovation district.

Since it was launched, the Inovor Technologies team has been working through commissioning of the satellites systems, confirming that the solar panels and batteries are functional and X-band radio communications are all operational.

A number of preliminary images have been collected during Kanyinis on-orbit commissioning phase, demonstrating the incredible depth of data the satellite will be able to provide once fully operational.

The first processed images released today, capture high resolution views of South Australian regions, including Kangaroo Island, Yorke Peninsula and Adelaide.

Inovor notes that the vast amount of data behind each image allows them to be processed to reveal infrared details normally invisible to the human eye, that can be used in monitoring crop health, vegetation density and changes in inland and coastal water conditions.

The HyperScout 2 hyperspectral imager capturing the views, is a three-in-one instrument that combines hyperspectral and thermal imaging with high-level data processing and Artificial Intelligence capabilities.

The satellite also features an Internet of Things (IoT) payload developed and manufactured in South Australia by Myriota, enabling Kanyini to capture both imagery and IoT data  such as groundwater levels and pipeline condition  from a single satellite.

The Kanyini mission is Australias first state-owned satellite and is a joint initiative between the South Australian Government, SmartSat CRC, Inovor Technologies and Myriota.

A statement today notes that over the coming months, the mission team will continue to progress the commissioning and calibration process of the satellites systems, ensuring its functions and data output meet the highest scientific standards - and once fully operational, Kanyini will deliver critical space data to support future research projects by government and research institutions, particularly in the areas of sustainability and climate impacts.

Kanyini fast facts:

Revolutions around the Earth: 2788

Average speed: 27,386 km/hr

Distance travelled: 9,034,937 km

Orbit height: 516km

Comments were released today including:

Stephen MullighanTreasurer South Australia:

The release of Kanyinis first images is an exciting moment for the mission team and the South Australian space community, reinforcing our position as a national leader in space technology.

The commissioning of the satellites ongoing operations will ensure Kanyini can deliver critical real-world benefits once fully operational.

From monitoring environmental changes, to supporting emergency services, Kanyinis data will provide vital insights that will help improve lives and drive innovation across multiple industries.

SmartSat CRC Chief Executive Officer, Professor Andy Koronios

Putting anything into space is an extraordinary feat, however the work does not stop at successfully delivering your spacecraft into orbit.

These first images are the result of years of hard work and dedication from our talented team of engineers as they work through the onboard commissioning of the spacecraft.

SmartSat is proud to be funding a suite of projects in artificial intelligence, onboard processing and machine learning aimed at using the data gathered by Kanyini to address challenges in agriculture, water management and the environment.

Having access to the wealth of information-dense data gathered from our own sovereign satellite opens up a world of opportunities for industry, academia and government departments.

Inovor Technologies Chief Executive Officer, Dr Matt Tetlow

Inovor Technologies is incredibly proud to see Kanyini delivering its first images from spacethis is a major milestone for the mission and a testament to the dedication of the team.

Every step of the commissioning process brings us closer to unlocking the full potential of Kanyinis data, which will provide invaluable insights for environmental monitoring and resource management.

This achievement reinforces Australias growing sovereign capability in space technology. We look forward to further calibration and data collection in the coming months.

Myriota Chief Technology Officer & Co-Founder, Dr David Haley

As Kanyini comes to life we are realising critical satellite capabilities that harness the power of space to deliver valuable data for real people here on earth.

We have tested and proven Myriotas home-grown IoT payload and are now integrating Kanyini into Myriotas satellite network where it will soon join our global connectivity service.

We are incredibly excited to be able to utilise a collaborative, South Australian-made satellite to communicate data that improves the management of key resources, both here in South Australia and beyond.
SUFFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  It has been a busy weekend for Suffolk Fire and Rescue. Crews worked four fires in the last 48 hours, including two brush fires, a landfill fire and a duplex fire on Bute Street.

Firefighters at Station 1 in Suffolk have been occupied, but they all remain prepared to respond to the next call.

While 10 On Your Side was there, we saw that in action.

So were lucky to have two sets of gear the department has issued us. So if you come back from a call with dirty gear, you get your second set out and get it ready to go, said Capt. Travis Saunders.

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All hands were on deck washing the engines and making sure their uniforms were clean.

We never know what were going to get, but once we get back to the station, it is pretty much all hands on deck. So, were going to help each other clean the rig, wash a hose, repack the hose, and get back in service for our next call, said Michael Thomas, master firefighter and paramedic.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue have been ready to go, responding to back-to-back calls.

Its definitely exhausting, physically taxing, and mentally taxing for the guys and girls in the department, said Capt. Travis Saunders.

Suffolk Fire & Rescue contain two brush fires

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It was a very windy day, which complicated things. Wind-driven fires definitely present us with problems. So they had a really busy day, said Capt. Travis Saunders.

On early Sunday morning, crews answered the call of reports of smoke and fire on top of a landfill. From brush to landfill fires, Capt. Saunders admits both are difficult.

Suffolk Fire-Rescue crews work to put out 2-alarm fire Sunday morning

You cant put the apparatus in certain places, so youre having to stretch long hose lays to reach the fire, and then residences are the same thing: different construction, different layouts, different streets, said Capt. Travis Saunders.

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Crews cleared the scene of the landfill fire just before 10 a.m. on Sunday.

Following the landfill fire, Suffolk Fire and Rescue doused a house fire on Bute Street that displaced 8 people.

Eight adults displaced after duplex fire in Suffolk

We had crews coming out, changing bottles, not even taking their facepiece off, going back inside to fight fire, said Capt. Travis Saunders.

Even with a busy weekend, SFR says all firefighters are always ready to help the community.

We train for this kind of thing, said Capt. Travis Saunders.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Sandra Hale Schulman

ICT



It was a long bittersweet road for Sugarcane, the film nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 2025 Oscars.



While the acclaimed film did not win the Oscar Sunday night, March 2, at the Academy Awards, director Julian Brave NoiseCat won as the first North American Indigenous filmmaker to be nominated in the category.



SUPPORT INDIGENOUS JOURNALISM. CONTRIBUTE TODAY.



"No matter what happens at the Oscars this weekend, I am incredibly proud of our film, our team, our participants, our families, our communities, our people and especially our survivors," NoiseCat said in a social media post.



Helping tell this story has been a profound and life-changing experience. Kukwstsetselp (thank you) to everyone who has watched and supported," he said.



The heart-wrenching film investigates the Catholic-run state schools enforced upon Indigenous children in Canada, particularly the one in Kamloops, Canada, where his father, Ed Archie NoiseCat was almost incinerated as a newborn, apparently the only baby to escape that fate.



Despite the heavy subject matter, the film team was exuberant on the red carpet. Julian Brave NoiseCat wore beaded earrings, a black shirt with a floral embroidered suede vest, a gorget neckpiece featuring a deer head and turquoise. Ed Archie NoiseCat wore a classic tuxedo with a black-brimmed hat and mirrored sunglasses.

Julian Brave NoiseCat, from left, Emily Kassie and Kellen Quinn arrive at the Oscars on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. NoiseCat's "Sugarcane" did not win the Oscar for best documentary but he was the first North American Indigenous person to be nominated. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

So incredibly grateful to my nations, my friends and especially my family  by blood and in film  for this Academy Award nomination (What a crazy thing to even get to write!), the younger NoiseCat said in the Instagram post. The stories of the First Peoples of this land deserve to be known and recognized. To all who came before and have been working and praying for this for so long, thank you. It is an honor to learn from you and follow in your footsteps, as that is our way. Xwexweyt te kwseltkten, all my relations.



He continued, The news of the grim discovery in Kamloops hit close to home for me. All my adult life, Id heard rumors that my father was born at or near one of those residential schools and that hed been found, just minutes after his birth, abandoned in a dumpster, he said. Those few details were all he or I knew. The silence, shame and guilt that hid this history from broader society rippled across generations of Indigenous families like my own. Our communities continue to suffer from cycles of suicide, addiction and violence, instigated by the experience at these schools.



In an opinion piece for The New York Times Julian Brave NoiseCat wrote, Its an honor to be the first Indigenous filmmaker from North America to be nominated for an Academy Award. But I better not be the only one for long. Some might see this nomination as historic and proof that Hollywood has come a long way from the time when studios portrayed Indians dying at the hands of swaggering cowboys. That era of western movies coincided with the heyday of the residential schools, which were designed to kill off Indigenous cultures and which led, in some cases, to the death of children themselves.

Related: Searing documentary Sugarcane nominated for an Oscar

The film earned many prestigious accolades  including a 90/100 on Metacritic and a 100 percent positivity score on Rotten Tomatoes, signifying universal acclaim. It has also been praised by renowned voices like former President Barack Obama who listed it as a top film from last year. Even former President Joe Biden acknowledged its impact.



"Sugarcane shines light on this shameful chapter of history, helping ensure that it is never forgotten or repeated," Biden said.



The film premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, where it won the U.S. Documentary for Directing award. There was an emotional screening in Santa Fe last summer attended by Julian and his father, with a Q&A hosted by Dark Winds director Chris Eyre that left the mostly Native audience weeping.



The documentary had the rare honor of a White House screening, with then-Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, director NoiseCat and other dignitaries in attendance in December.



On Oct. 25, Biden traveled to the Gila River Indian Reservation in Arizona offering a historic apology for the federal governments role in the boarding schools that abused Indigenous children. After the screening, the filmmaking team received a letter from Biden in which he reiterated his condemnation.



I have always believed that we must know the good, the bad, and the truth of our past so that we can begin to remember and heal, he wrote. That is why I became the first President to issue a formal apology for the Federal Indian Boarding School era  one of our Nations most horrific periods.



For over 150 years, the Federal Government ran boarding schools that forcibly removed generations of Native children from their homes to live at schools that were often far away, the letter stated. The schools aimed to assimilate Native children by stripping them of their languages, religions, and cultures, often separating them from their families for years, with some never returning home. Native children endured physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, and at least 973 children died in these schools.



The president continued, The Sugarcane documentary shines a light on this shameful chapter of history, helping ensure that it is never forgotten or repeated I know the story of Sugarcane wasnt easy to tell, but we do ourselves no favors by pretending it didnt happen.



Sugarcane is now streaming on Hulu.

Our stories are worth telling. Our stories are worth sharing. Our stories are worth your support. Contribute today to help ICT carry out its critical mission. Sign up for ICTs free newsletter.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Sun Metro will honor the life of Ruben Ibarra, a fleet maintenance technician who died after the Sun Metro explosion last month.

Man in critical condition dies after Sun Metro explosion

The City of El Paso says it will honor Ibarras life with a special tribute on Monday, March 3. All Sun Metro buses will display his name throughout the day and at 1:04 p.m., all bus operators across the network will pause service for one minute and observe a moment of silence, if they can do so safely.

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The time designated for the moment of silence marks the approximate time the Feb. 11 incident began.

Our Sun Metro family is heartbroken and mourning the loss of our team member, Ruben Ibarra. This special memorial tribute will honor and remember him while showing support to his family as we share in their grief during this incredibly difficult time, said Sun Metro Director Anthony DeKeyzer.

Ibarra started working with Sun Metro in December 2024 as a fleet maintenance technician. He was one of five employees hospitalized following the explosion at the Sun Metro Transit Operations Center, the City said.

Three others were checked at the scene for injuries but were not transported.

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Ibarra was one of the two people who were flown to Phoenix, Arizona for treatment of critical injuries. He later died on Thursday, Feb. 13.

Law firms representing Sun Metro victims ask for access to scene

Sun Metro will also restore regular service for nearly all fixed routes starting on Monday, March 3, the City of El Paso said.

Only Routes 2 and 16, which serve the Upper Valley and Five Points areas, will remain deactivated.

The routes serviced by Amistad and the LIFT paratransit service are already offering regular service hours all week and will continue to do so. Brio lines will maintain an adjusted weekday schedule and regular weekend service.

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For more on those services, click on the story thats linked below.

Sun Metro to resume regular service on most lines Monday

The City of El Paso continues to investigate the incident.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
CANTON, N.Y. (WWTI)  During the Northern Area Health Education Center (NAHEC) Medical Academy of Science and Health (MASH) camp, area high school students had the opportunity to gain personal experience with SUNY Cantons career-focused healthcare programs, according to the college.

Texas measles cases rise to 146 in an outbreak that led to a childs death

MASH Camp is a collaborative program that provides hands-on opportunities for high school students to explore health careers, said NAHEC Program Manager Bryn Donovan. It is an immersive program for high school students, encouraging exploration through hands-on learning.

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SUNY Canton said MASH campers learned about Nursing, Veterinary Technology, Health and Fitness Promotion, Applied Psychology, Health Care Management, and Physical Therapist Assistant programs. They also obtained CPR certification and participated in other training sessions with the colleges EMS Squad.

The ten high school students toured several departments to learn about the duties and abilities required for each career path. They took part in hands-on workshops that demonstrated the equipment, technology and resources used by healthcare professionals. They also learned about the educational requirements, work responsibilities, important abilities, and significant strengths required for success in healthcare vocations in each of the linked college programs.

By working with high school students, NAHEC and SUNY Canton help reinforce the pathway to healthcare professions, which is essential for strengthening the future workforce, said Elizabeth Brown, SUNY Canton Exec. Director of Workforce Community and Industry Partnerships, who helped facilitate the camp.

Why pharmacies are closing  and what to do if yours shuts its doors

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MASH Camp was given during most area schools winter vacation and drew students from all around the North Country. In addition to instructors and SUNY Canton professionals, Assemblymember Scott Gray visited the children and expressed a strong interest in the curriculum and what they had learned.

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WHAT WILL WE SAY about the Supreme Court when the storm has passed? That it was strong? That it stood firm against a rogue president? If, when the crisis comes, the justices make Donald Trump blink, then eventually, we may come to pair him with Andrew Jacksontwo colorful leaders in the colorful history of our nationas the nation moves on. But what if, looking back, we see the Court was weak? What if the justices confine themselves to milquetoast opinions? What if they content themselves with calling ordinary constitutional footfaults as Trump assaults the constitutional order itself? The justices may be remembered for meekly standing by, pointing at parchment barriers as a strongman tore them to shreds.

At the center of the Court sit three pivotal jurists: Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, and Justice Amy Coney Barrett. When they act together, they are the Courts deciding force. Although Trump appointed two of them (Kavanaugh and Barrett), all three are genteel conservatives with no deep attachment to Trump or his movement. Given their druthers, they would spend their time doing conservative legal stuffconstruing statutes narrowly here, protecting Christian convictions therewhile ignoring Trump and Trumpism. But history, it would seem, has other plans for them. The Courts three liberals (Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, Ketanji Brown Jackson) will stand tall against Trump. The Courts three ultra-conservatives (Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch) will likely seek to accommodate him. Everything hangs on the three in the middle.

Roberts, Kavanaugh, and Barrett came to the Supreme Court in the name of conservative constitutional restoration. They will now be called upon to engage in emergency constitutional preservation. These are not the same thing, and for this trio, the transitionif they heed the callwill be a profoundly uncomfortable one. They will have to set aside their sense of restraint, abandon their self-image as bloodless, neutral arbiters, and, if necessary, even betray the conservative legal movement that shaped them. They are headed for a confrontation with Trumpa confrontation they must win.

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START WITH THE PRESIDENTS REMOVAL POWER. For as long as modern conservative legal thought has existed, there has been a campaign to overturn Humphreys Executor v. United States (1935), the New Dealera ruling that allows Congress to limit the presidents ability to remove senior officialswhat the Constitution refers to as officers. The decision, which sustained a provision that insulated the five leaders of the Federal Trade Commission from being removed without cause, became the foundation for so-called independent agenciesthe SEC, FDIC, FEC, CFTC, EPA, and so on.

Humphreys Executor is not a strong decision. According to Robert H. Jackson, Roosevelts third attorney general and eighth Supreme Court justice, FDR believed the justices ruling was an effort to rebuke him (modern legal scholars tend to agree). The Court reasoned that the FTC is not an executive agency but a quasi-legislative and quasi-judicial one. The Constitution does not, however, recognize quasi branches of government. As Chief Justice Roberts observes, Humphreys Executor has not withstood the test of time.

A week into his second term, Trump fired Gwynne Wilcox, a Democratic member of the National Labor Relations Board. She sued, setting up the test case the Trump administration clearly wanted. The Roberts Court has been steadily chipping away at removal protections. Whether through Wilcoxs case or another one, Roberts, Kavanaugh, and Barrett will soon have the opportunity to complete a great conservative legal quest: overturn Humphreys Executor altogether and hand the president the power to fire any officer at will.

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By itself, this shift would not be all that scary. The president already appoints agency heads, who tend faithfully to implement his agenda. The new chairs of the FTC and the FCC have happily made clear that, removal protection or no, they intend to display no independence whatsoever. True, if the Court takes literally the Constitutions command that all executive Power be vested in the president, that might free Trump to eject every last Democratic agency commissioner. But while that would be bad, it would not be apocalyptic. (Its not like anyone from the other party is around to dissent when the attorney general files a lawsuit.)

But Trump is not trying simply to overturn Humphreys Executorand he is certainly not making a stand for the Constitution and its separation of powers. On the contrary, he is systematically attacking the constitutional order.

He has claimed a sweeping power to withhold lawfully appropriated funds, in defiance of Congresss unambiguous constitutional power of the purse.

He has declared statutes void by fiat (thats why you can still download TikTok), literally replacing law with lawlessness.

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He has twisted other rules beyond recognitionasserting, for example, that the Fourteenth Amendments pledge that all persons born in this country are citizens means the opposite of what it says.

He has corrupted law enforcement by pardoning insurrectionists, firing lawyers who (rightly) investigated him, imposing loyalty tests on new federal agents, and dropping charges in exchange for political favors.

He has placed the FBI in the hands of a pair of podcasting cranks.

Far from wanting merely to remove unwanted agency heads, he plans to purge the civil service, replacing competent government employees with committed ideological allies.

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Worst of all, Trump might start ignoring court orders. He has so far maintained a degree of strategic ambiguity on this front, but a showdown looms. His closest aides are challenging the judiciarys authority and calling for judicial impeachments. And Trump himself has declared that He who saves his Country does not violate any Law. In the face of this bone-chilling line, no promises from Trumps lawyers about following court orders can be taken seriously.1

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When a branch of government goes rogue, pushing its powers beyond their constitutional limits, how should the rest of the system respond? In his memorable dissent in Morrison v. Olson (1988)a case about the removal power, no lessJustice Antonin Scalia acknowledged that a regime of separate and coordinate powers necessarily involves an acceptance of exclusive power that can theoretically be abused. But, he assured us, there are two key checks. First, retaliation by one of the other branchs use of its exclusive powers: Congress, for example, can impeach the executive who willfully fails to enforce the laws. And second, and ultimately, there is the political check that the people will replace those in the political branches . . . who are guilty of abuse.

When Scalia wrote them, these words were meant to convince the reader that a broad removal power was nothing to fear. Today, they serve as unsettling proof that things are falling apart. Trump is abusing executive power with abandon (including by willfully fail[ing] to enforce the laws); but on which of the two checks are we to rely? Congress is supine: It confirms Trumps preposterously unqualified nominees, refuses to defend its spending power, and (experience grimly shows) will never succeed at impeachment. It has abandoned its constitutional duty to stand as a coequal branch of government. As for the voters, they saw Trump attempt to steal an election, disrupt the peaceful transfer of power, and call for termination of the Constitution, and then they returned him to office. They didnt check the abuse of power; they validated it.

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If the executive breaks through constitutional barriers, and if both Congress and the electorate refuse to act, is it enough for the Supreme Court to carry on as usual? Overturn Humphreys Executor, come what may? Or are justices who ignore a crisis guilty of feeding it?

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Consider the disaster that is Trump v. United States (2024). Writing for the Court, Chief Justice Roberts asked whether presidents, as a general matter, need broad immunity from prosecution to function effectively. Unlike the political branches and the public at large, he announced, we cannot afford to fixate exclusively, or even primarily, on present exigencies. Our perspective, he wrote, must be more farsighted. Viewing matters from this Olympian height, Roberts thought it a fitting moment to praise presidential vigor: The system of separated powers designed by the Framers has always demanded an energetic, independent Executive. Accordingly, Trump v. United States grants presidents expansive immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts.

In ordinary times, this ruling would have been debatable. We need to keep the imperial presidencyan expansion of executive power that predates Trumpaccountable. (In Federalist 51, Madison wrung his hands about the weight of the legislative authority and the weakness of the executive, worries suited to his era but alien to our own.) On the other hand, Roberts was not wrong to raise the specter of an executive branch that cannibalizes itself as, in an escalating cycle of factional strife, each new president prosecutes his predecessor.

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But ordinary times these are not. The real issue in the case was, of course, whether a very specific former president, one Donald J. Trump, could be prosecuted for trying to steal an election and, when that didnt work, inciting a riot and pursuing a coup. Roberts was utterly blindproudly blindto the fact that we have entered extraordinary times. The president must be able, Roberts insisted, to boldly and fearlessly carry out his duties. What an amazing thing to say, in the context it was said. By delaying, and then derailing, Trumps trial for his role in the January 6th attack, Roberts ensured that Trump faced no reckoning before the next election. And so Trump is back, now armed with near-total immunity and a greater threat to the Constitution than ever.

Mr. Chief Justice, is this man acting boldly and fearlessly enough for you?

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THE ROMAN REPUBLIC was not destroyed in a day. Over time, small farmers were displaced by vast estates worked by slaves. (You might say the middle class was hollowed out by a form of globalization.) This and other forms of elite self-interestedness created openings for populist demagogues. Ambitious men relied on celebrity, rather than service, to rise. Polarization increased, and elections grew violent. Institutional norms broke down. Although the Senate remained and patriotic rhetoric persisted, politics became a raw struggle for power. Checks and balances failed, strongmen prevailed, and the republic collapsed.

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The parallels with our situation dont need spelling out. The justices of the Supreme Court would do well to start meditating a little less on the proclamations of Madison and Hamilton, and a little more on the provocations of the Gracchi and Pompey. Trump is not Lincoln, wielding great power to guide the nation. He is Sulla, proscribing his enemies.

Large forces are at play. The Court cannot save the republic by itself. But it can refuse to go along with its destruction. When right-wing commentators compare us to the late Roman Republic, their point is that Trump is Caesar, the would-be dictator, who must cross the Rubicon and wage civil war. Roberts, Kavanaugh, and Barrett, the Courts guiding triumvirate, must recognize the moment. Now is not the time to overturn Humphreys Executor. Do not feed a despotic beast new paeans to bold and fearless leadership. Now is the time to hand Trump no new power, to reject his lawbreaking at every turn, and to call him the constitutional menace he is.

Roberts, Kavanaugh, and Barrett need to speak up. This is not some academic debate about the original meaning of the Take Care clause. It is a brewing crisis over the fate of American liberal democracy. The time has come to declare, in no uncertain terms, that Trump is a clear and present danger to the republic. Every conservative lawyer knows Justice Scalias famous line: This wolf comes as a wolf.

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1

In a recent request for an emergency stay filed at the Supreme Court, Acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris wrote: The Executive Branch takes seriously its constitutional duty to comply with the orders of Article III courts. A talented lawyer, Harris no doubt knows that she is throwing a hostage to fortune.
It will be smiles and handshakes when President Donald Trump bumps into several members of the Supreme Court on the House floor Tuesday evening before he delivers his first address to Congress of his second term.

But there have been subtle signs that the justices, in private, have been wringing their hands.

Dozens of lawsuits challenging Trumps deluge of executive actions have put considerable scrutiny on federal courts in recent weeks  including the Supreme Court, which is considering two appeals tied to the new presidents flurry of executive orders.

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Theres obviously a lot coming at us and will be coming at us in the next few months, Justice Elena Kagan said during an alumni event at Princeton University late last month. A lot of people are focused on the courts generally, and on my court in particular.

Trump and his aides have repeatedly toyed with ignoring federal courts, a scenario that would give rise to a constitutional crisis. Trump appeared to channel Napoleon in a recent social media post by claiming that he who saves his country does not violate any law. More recently, two top Justice Department nominees were cagey when senators asked if the administration will adhere to all court orders.

Taken together, the threats from Trump and the litigation  including one case that alleges the administration is already defying federal courts  have made an institution naturally inclined to avoid to politics even more keen to keep the temperature low.

There are times when I feel a little bit more willing to be open, a little bit less willing to be open, Kagan said at Princeton, stressing that her goal was to get through her talk without making headlines. You pick up the newspaper. Theres a lot going on in the world. Sorry.

A childish spectacle

Many justices have shunned showing up to presidential addresses to Congress at all. The late Justice Antonin Scalia once described the State of the Union as a childish spectacle.

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Still, Chief Justice John Roberts has traditionally attended the address along with at least a few of his colleagues. Those who show usually greet the president as he makes his way to the dais and then sit awkwardly stone-faced as lawmakers erupt into applause over and over again.

On Tuesday, the gap between Trumps teleprompter and the courts front row seats may feel wider than ever  particularly if the president discusses the slew of adverse court rulings.

Like the applause during a presidents speech, threats to ignore federal court rulings have mostly met with silence from the Supreme Court. Several close observers of the court say that it is probably a smart strategy.

Justices are always very reluctant to speak publicly about issues that might come before them, said Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the University of California, Berkeleys law school. But I think under the circumstances, justices will be especially unlikely to do so.

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Given the tension brewing between the executive and judicial branches, he said, the justices dont want to say anything now that would be seen as confrontational or prejudging issues.

Roberts took an unusual and uncharacteristic swipe at Trump in 2018, asserting that the nation did not have Obama judges or Trump judges, Bush judges or Clinton judges. Instead, Roberts said, what we have is an extraordinary group of dedicated judges doing their level best to do equal right to those appearing before them.

But there are also enormous risks for Roberts and other justices in poking at Trump as his administration turns toward a collision course with the court. It could backfire, giving Trump and his allies an opening to argue that the court isnt fairly considering whatever appeals they file.

The Supreme Court, undeniably conservative, has already handed Trump high-profile victories, most notably last years decision that shielding presidents from criminal prosecution for official actions once they leave office. Not only did that decision go Trumps way, critics complain the courts timing essentially scuttled special counsel Jack Smiths criminal charges.

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And yet court has also ruled against Trump in other major cases since the election: In January, five justices voted to allow Trump to be sentenced in his New York hush money case. The court also upheld a ban on TikTok that same month that Trump urged the justices to pause. The court late last month allowed the head of an independent watchdog agency to stay on the job temporarily over the presidents objections.

Kavanaugh brings up Nixon

While the justices arent directly discussing Trump, that doesnt mean the presidents words are going unnoticed behind the courts curtain.

Without mentioning Trump or anyone else by name, Roberts himself flicked in December at his concerns over a growing number of threats to defy the courts. In an annual report released on New Years Eve, the chief justice described that talk as coming from across the political spectrum.

These dangerous suggestions, however sporadic, must be soundly rejected, he wrote.

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In a more subtle moment perhaps underscoring the anxiety within the court, Justice Brett Kavanaugh floated an unusual hypothetical during arguments last week in a case involving an inmate who is seeking DNA evidence he says will show he doesnt deserve to be executed. The justices were debating a technical legal point on whether courts have the power to review his case if prosecutors make clear they would not turn over the evidence.

Thats when Kavanaugh, a Trump nominee, brought up President Richard Nixon and the Supreme Courts famous 1974 ruling that required Nixon to release what became known as the Watergate tapes.

You know, if President Nixon said, Im not going to come turn over the tapes no matter what, you wouldnt say, oh, I guess we dont have standing to hear the executive privilege case, Kavanaugh said.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor, nominated by President Barack Obama, has been the most outspoken of the nine in recent weeks. Even she did not mention Trump by name.

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Court decisions stand, Sotomayor, the courts most senior liberal justice, said during an event in Miami in mid-February. Whether one particular person chooses to abide by them or not, it doesnt change the foundation that its still a court order that someone will respect at some point.

Thats the faith that I have in our system, she said.

Unfreezing the freeze

If the justices are holding their tongues publicly, theyll be unable to avoid Trump on the courts docket.

One of the presidents high-profile firings has already made its way into an emergency ruling. Hampton Dellinger, who heads an agency that handles whistleblower complaints from federal employees, is in the job  for now  because the Supreme Court punted on a request from the Department of Justice to let the administration dismiss him.

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And the court is currently considering an emergency appeal over nearly $2 billion in foreign aid that the administration has attempted to freeze. The plaintiffs, a group of nonprofit organizations that rely on the funding to run public health and other programs overseas claimed in a filing Friday the administration has openly flouted a lower court order to spend the money.

The government, the nonprofits said, took no steps toward compliance.

Likely sensing that the arguments appeared to align with Trumps statements on social media questioning the rule of law, the Department of Justice attorneys defending the spending freeze went out of their way to claim they were not defying the judiciary.

The Trump administration, acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris wrote in a brief last week, takes seriously its constitutional duty to comply with the orders of federal courts.

The Supreme Court is set to decide in coming days whether it will back the nonprofits, or Trump.

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The Supreme Court on Monday turned away another opportunity to weigh the constitutionality of college bias response teams.

Over the dissents of conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, the court declined to take up a lawsuit against Indiana University officials brought by Speech First, a group formed to advocate for students First Amendment rights.

The group has filed numerous challenges against colleges across the country that leverage bias response teams, which solicit anonymous reports of bias and sometimes refer students for discipline.

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The Supreme Court last year turned away a similar lawsuit filed by the group against Virginia Tech, which eventually discontinued its team.

Given the number of schools with bias response teams, this Court eventually will need to resolve the split over a students right to challenge such programs, Thomas wrote Monday.

The Courts refusal to intervene now leaves students subject to a patchwork of First Amendment rights, with a students ability to challenge his universitys bias response policies varying depending on accidents of geography, Thomas continued, quoting his similar dissent when the court turned away the Virginia Tech case.

Speech First urged the court to use the Indiana case to resolve the legal question, saying it had deepened a circuit split on whether students have a right to sue when college bias teams chill speech in violation of the First Amendment.

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Precisely because speech codes are often struck down, universities have looked for subtler, more sophisticated ways to chill disfavored speech. Enter the bias-response team, Speech Firsts petition stated.

Instead of outright banning biased speech, these teams deter it by threatening students with adverse consequences. They also burden it by imposing a series of administrative and other costs on students who commit bias incidents, it continued.

Describing Speech First as a frequent flier of lawsuits against higher-education institutions, attorneys for the Indiana school officials urged the justices to turn away the case.

The case is thus not a remotely serviceable vehicle for reaching Speech Firsts purportedly split-closing question. No such split exists, and this appeal would lead nowhere anyway, they wrote in court filings.

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Tragedy struck a small surf enclave in central Chile on February 24th, when a surfer and influencer was in the water, minding her own business, and a fishing boat came roaring into shore, running over the surfer in the process. The surfer, Javiera Ortiz, died from her injuries. She was 34 years old.

Video footage of the incident has been circulating on social media, and while its not necessarily graphic in nature at first glance, it does show the moment that Ortiz was struck by the boat, and later died from her injuries. See the video below; although, of course, viewer discretion advised.

In a statement from the Club de Surf Rinconada de Taucu, translated to English, they said:

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With deep sorrow, we announce that a surfer has died in an accident on Rinconada de Taucu beach, Cobequecura today. The surfing community and locals are mourning this tragic loss.

According to records, the surfer was hit by a boat, which caused her death.

Authorities are investigating the exact circumstances of the accident to determine responsibility and prevent future incidents.

Ortiz was a Chilean local, an avid knitter and surfer, and had a substantial following of over 63k folks on social media. Reportedly, soon after the incident happened, she was scheduled to get married.

The incident also sparked a debate surrounding surfers versus fishing boats, who has the right of way, who is in the wrong, et cetera. Palmira Bastias, president of the local fishing union, said:

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Surfers are very stubborn, the boats give all the signals, they go around and around in order for them to see the boat, but they ignore everything, and unfortunately when they see a wave they ride it, they dont care if the boat is coming to ground, they just ride it in this case the fisherman didnt see anything, the fisherman who is driving on a wave cant possibly see a person in the water, but they can see the boat because the boat is huge compared to theirs, but they dont respect anything.

In either case, Ortizs death is nonetheless tragic. And likely one that couldve been avoided.

Related: Surfer Hospitalized from Boat Propeller Collision (Video)

Heres more from the local surf club:

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"This accident has generated shock and sadness in the community, and has reminded us of the importance of taking extreme precautions in aquatic activities. Surfers and crew are urged to respect safety regulations and be aware of their surroundings to avoid accidents.

"In this time of grief, we send our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased surfer. May you find comfort and strength to overcome this difficult situation.

"The surfing community reaffirms its commitment to safety in the water and requests that there be a substantive improvement in the procedures for entering and exiting boats into the sea. May this tragic accident serve as a call to reflection and prevention to avoid future losses."

Rest in peace, Javiera Ortiz.

Related: Pro Surfers Kai Lenny and Jamie O'Brien Capsize $10 Million, World's Fastest Sailboat (VIDEO)
Liberal Dane County Judge Susan Crawford said Friday she was surprised her opponent, conservative Waukesha County Judge Brad Schimel, has begun attacking sitting Supreme Court justices.

Crawford spoke after an appearance at the Marquette University Law School. She and Schimel are squaring off against one another in the April 1 general election, a race that will decide the ideological slant of the state Supreme Court.

"What's striking to me is that Brad Schimel seems to be not just campaigning against me, but campaigning against several justices on the Wisconsin Supreme Court," Crawford said. "I'm not sure why he is attacking other sitting justices on the Supreme Court. I have certainly not done that, and I don't intend to."

Supreme Court candidate and Dane County Judge Susan Crawford speaks with Derek Mosley, director of Marquette University Law School's Lubar Center for Public Policy Research and Civic Education at Marquette University at Marquette University Lubar Center at Eckstein Hall in Milwaukee on Friday, Feb. 28, 2025.

Joining her at the event was liberal Supreme Court Justice Rebecca Dallet.

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Crawford's comments came on the same day that the Journal Sentinel published a news story based on a radio interview in which Schimel suggested several members of the high court's liberal majority were "driven by their emotions" during a Nov. 11 court hearing over the legality of a state law adopted in 1849 banning most abortions. All four liberal justices are women.

"They are being driven by their emotions." Schimel told conservative talker Meg Ellefson on Nov. 12. "A Supreme Court justice had better be able to set their personal opinions and their emotions aside and rule on the law objectively. This is  we dont have that objectivity on this court."

On Thursday, Schimel defended his remarks, saying he never brought up the gender of the justices during his critique. He then narrowed his criticism to Justice Jill Karofsky, saying she was "yelling" and "lost control of her emotions" during oral arguments in the abortion case.

The four liberal justices released a joint statement on Schimel's remarks: "Unfortunately, Brad Schimel is showing he has an antiquated and distorted view of women," the four justices said. Karofsky declined to comment further after being singled out by the former Republican attorney general

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Early on Friday, Schimel's campaign team took a shot at Crawford on X, formerly Twitter: "The Crawford campaign and the mainstream media have resorted to gaslighting voters."

At stake in the case could be the future of abortion rights in the state.

Schimel and Crawford are polar opposites on the issue, with Schimel declaring himself "firmly pro-life" and Crawford acknowledging she is "pro-choice."

In June 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court tossed the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade ruling legalizing abortion nationwide. Three Planned Parenthood clinics and one independent clinic in Wisconsin stopped providing services for fear of violating the state's 1849 abortion ban, which says that "any person, other than the mother, who intentionally destroys the life of the unborn child" is guilty of a felony.

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Attorney General Josh Kaul filed a suit challenging the 176-year-old law, and Dane County Circuit Judge Diane Schlipper ruled in December 2023 that the law in question does not apply to abortions but to feticide. After her ruling, the four clinics, located in Dane, Milwaukee and Sheboygan counties, began providing abortions again.

Sheboygan County District Attorney Joel Urmanski, a Republican, appealed the trial court decision, contending the 1849 ban should be enforceable. The two sides argued their points before the Supreme Court in November.

Contact Daniel Bice at (414) 313-6684 or dbice@jrn.com. Follow him on X at @DanielBice or on Facebook at fb.me/daniel.bice.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Susan Crawford says she's surprised by Brad Schimel attack on justices
(Photo by Irving Herzberg 1961 www.https://artblart.com/)



FIRST TATTOO SHOP IN UNITED STATES OPENED IN 1846

The tradition of tattooing and body marking goes back in history to at least 4000 BC, as seen on ancient mummies. The connection between tattoos and warriors, or those defending their home, may be just as old. In ancient Rome, soldiers were tattooed with ident Societies around the world have had special tattoo designs for their warriors such as the blue patterns used by the Picts of Scotland and the black patterns created by the Maori of New Zealand. In the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church, which is not known for allowing body art, encouraged Crusader knights who tattooed the Holy Cross on their bodies.

The tradition of American military tattoos begins with the Navy. Exposure to Polynesian tattoos in the 1700s may have led to an explosion of tattooing among British, and then American, sailors. The word tattoo is Polynesian and entered the English language following Captain Cooks voyages in the South Pacific. Sailors used tattoos to show their achievements: an anchor meant he had crossed the Atlantic Ocean, a turtle indicated an equator crossing, and a ship meant he had sailed around Cape Horn. Tattoos were also used as talismans against superstition, and many of these motifs are still used by sailors today.

During the Revolutionary War, a sailors tattoos were listed officially on their protection papers, which helped identify them as American if they were being pressed into the British Royal Navy. By the time of the Civil War a hundred years later, tattooing had spread to the Army. Each regiment was known to have at least one guy who could tattoo, with flags and weapons being popular. Tattoo artist Martin Hildebrandt, who opened the first tattoo shop in the United States in 1846, also traveled around the country tattooing soldiers.

(Photo of Jacob Hildebrandt displaying tattoos thought to be the work of Martin Hildebrandt www.artworldconfidential.org.)



In the U.S., tattooing was synonymous with sailors and soldiers until the 20th century when it became popular with countercultural groups like gangs and circus sideshows. This changed the view of body art into one associated with deviant behavior and the popularity of tattoos waned, even amongst the military. During the World Wars, official policy required tattoos to be covered by the uniform. Finally, in the 1970s body art became acceptable in the mainstream culture and military tattooing also saw a resurgence with art that reflected ones field of service, experiences, and patriotism. Recently, tattoos have also been used as therapy for service members handling post-traumatic stress or chronic pain.

Navy Tattoo featured in 400 Photographs of Tattoos from the Last Century by David McComb. (David McComb/www.tattoodo.com)

La Belle Irene French postcard 1890 www.artblart.com (www.artblart.com)



MEANING BEHIND CLASSIC SAILOR TATTOOS

(Full-rigged Ship)



Full-rigged Ship - The sailing era tattoo of a sailing ship under full sail signifies that the sailor circled Cape Horn, the southern tip of South America.

(Nautical Star)



Nautical Star - is a symbol of a sailor who can always find his way home.

(Anchor)



Anchor - A single anchor indicates that a sailor has crossed the Atlantic or was a member of the merchant marine.

(Swallow)



Swallow - Sailors earn a new swallow tattoo for every 5,000 nautical miles they traveled.

(Crosses )



Crosses - They are believed to be applied on the soles of the feet to ward off hungry sharks.

MOST POPULAR MILITARY TATTOOS

Flags, units, branch logos, dog tags, rank insignia, Maltese crosses, and deployment-related tattoos are common amongst all of the branches. But some motifs are held tightly within the culture and superstitions of certain military branches and units.

(Marine Corps tattoo in the Ameican Traditional style.)

Fully rigged ship tattoo worn by Corey Warner. (Photo by Brittany Atkins.)

()



Navy:

Anchors, swallows, nautical stars, compasses, ships, rope, dragons, turtles and pin-up girls.

Army:

Camouflage, berets, field crosses and tanks.

Air Force:

Jets, pilot wings, the Air Force logo, jolly green feet.

Marines:

Bulldogs, Semper Fi, Crash Fire Rescue insignia, USMC.

Coast Guard:

USCG, anchors, cutters, life preservers, Semper Peratus,helicopters.

The Space Force hasnt existed long enough for popular tattoos to emerge as iconic amongst its members, but well see what develops in the future.

View Pacific Tattoo
PEARL RIVER COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT)  A man was arrested in connection to an attempted fraud scheme that targeted a Mississippi resident, authorities said.

On February 18, 2025, authorities responded to a report of a community member in Pearl River County purchasing a large amount of gold bars under suspicious circumstances.

Two people wanted in Hattiesburg motel burglary case

Investigators said the victim had been contacted by a person who was posing as a financial institution representative, falsely claiming their bank account had been compromised. They said the suspect convinced the victim to make significant financial transactions.

Guohua Huang (Courtesy: Pearl River Co. Sheriffs Office)

The suspect was identified as Guohua Huang, of China. He was arrested and charged with attempt to commit false pretense and conspiracy to commit a crime. According to the Pearl River County Sheriffs Office, Huang could face federal charges related to the case and is also subject to deportation proceedings.

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The case remains under investigation in cooperation with federal authorities.

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WALTON COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB)  A man was arrested after reportedly being found in a Mossy Head homeowners home on Saturday.

Walton County deputies responded to a report of a suspicious incident where the caller found a man in his home whom he believed to be a squatter.

Deputies said when they arrived at Jeanine Way, the caller requested the man, later identified as 40-year-old Joshua Sohne, to be trespassing. However, officials said that further investigation revealed Sohne had taken and moved items inside the home.

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Suspects identified in $100K ATM theft in Bonifay

When deputies attempted to detain Sohne, he shoved the deputy backward and fled on foot, officials wrote. A taser was deployed, but it was ineffective.

Walton Correctional K-9 Teams, Florida Highway Patrol, and Okaloosa County Sheriffs Office deputies responded to assist. A K-9 track was established, and officials said they found Sohne in the woods, where he was arrested.

Sohne is charged with burglary, petit theft, providing a false name to a LEO, resisting arrest, and battery on a LEO. He was given a $23,000 bond and is still incarcerated at this time.

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CHICAGO  The man wanted in connection with a deadly shooting at a River North hotel has turned himself in.

Chicago police said 35-year-old Demetris Shorter of Davenport, Iowa, turned himself in to CPD just before 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: 1 woman killed, 1 woman injured in shooting at River North hotel, Chicago police say

Shorter has been charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of attempted first-degree murder.

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The shooting at the hotel happened on Saturday, Feb. 22 at around 8:15 p.m.

Police said officers responded to the scene in the 300 block of West Grand Avenue, where they found a 29-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to the neck inside the lobby of a hotel.

Read more: Latest Chicago news and headlines

According to police, the woman said she was shot by an unidentified male offender (now identified as Shorter), who then fled the scene in a tan SUV, last seen heading east. The 29-year-old woman was taken to an area hospital and was listed in good condition.

CPD said officers then conducted a further search and found a 32-year-old woman inside a guest room of the hotel with a gunshot wound to the shoulder. She was taken to an area hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her identity has not yet been released.

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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  A person is in custody after being accused of hitting a police vehicle while attempting to evade police.

According to the Pasco County Sheriffs Office, a deputy attempted a traffic stop outside of Hernando County around 11:15 a.m on Sunday.

Deputies said the person, who had an outstanding warrant, attempted to flee the scene and struck a PSO vehicle on Denton Ave.

The suspect then proceeded to hit several fences before continuing to flee on foot.

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The Pasco County Sheriffs Office arrested the suspect and there are no reported injuries from the pursuit.

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(FOX40.COM)  A suspect has been arrested after repeatedly using a hammer as a shopping tool at a JCPenney in Salinas.

According to the Salinas Police Department, the suspect stole $145,000 in items after using the hammer to smash through glass displays.

Three people taken to hospital after serious vehicle crash in Sacramento

After multiple smash-and-grab heists were recently committed by the suspect, the Organized Retail Theft teams and some Loss Prevention Officers were able to track down the suspect and make an arrest, Salinas police said.

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Salinas PD said in a statement, Thanks to the outstanding teamwork and thorough investigation, the suspect in this case was successfully charged under the new California theft laws and recently sentenced to three years in prison. This is a prime example of how SPDs ORT team collaborates with retail stores to hold offenders accountable and combat theft effectively.

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BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  They worked together  and they killed together.

Thats what police say of Anthony Rojas-Gutierrez, Andrew Espinoza and Ruben Sonni Martinez, who left work early on Jan. 25, 2022, and were allegedly involved in the shooting death that evening of a rival gang member in central Bakersfield.

Rojas-Gutierrez and Espinoza, both 21, are each charged with first-degree murder, conspiracy and gang participation. Theyre due back in court March 28.

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Last month, Martinez, 29, pleaded no contest to a charge of voluntary manslaughter and was sentenced to 13 years in prison, according to court records.

Bakersfield man guilty of attacking marijuana delivery driver with bat

Police knew about the shooting the night it occurred thanks to a ShotSpotter activation  but werent immediately sure anyone had been hit. They circled through the area but didnt find a victim.

The following morning, Jan. 26, someone called to report a man lying motionless on a sidewalk in the 900 block of M Street, not far from where the shooting occurred. Hed been shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the scene.

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Surveillance video showed two people armed with handguns approach the victim and open fire  muzzle flashes are visible and gunfire is clearly audible, according to court documents.

The gunmen take off running and exit the frame. The direction they headed was in the area of the home of Martinez, a known West Side Bakers gang member, documents said.

A review of Martinezs social media revealed he posted an Instagram video the day after the shooting. It shows him and two other men  later identified as Espinoza and Rojas-Gutierrez  making gang hand gestures in apparent celebration of the killing, according to the documents.

Martinez and his girlfriend gave conflicting statements as to what they were doing the night of the shooting, the reports say. She told investigators two men she didnt know came home with Martinez.

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Further investigation revealed the three men worked together  and their workplace sign out log showed they left early on the day of the homicide, according to court documents.

Detectives obtained cellphone data through search warrants and on Feb. 15, 2022, started a wiretap on phones belonging to Espinoza and Rojas-Gutierrez.

On Feb. 24, 2022, police issued a news release asking for help identifying the suspects in the shooting. The release contained photos of Espinoza and Rojas-Gutierrez.

After the release went out, the wiretap captured Rojas-Gutierrez telling a woman, possibly his mother, that hes in a gang that police believe are responsible for a recent homicide, according to the documents. He told the woman not to give police his location or phone number, and to say he was with her on the night of the shooting.

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On the same day, Rojas-Gutierrez spoke to another woman, believed to be his girlfriend, telling her he doesnt want to spend the rest of his life in prison, according to the documents. He said he might leave for Mexico.

Arrests were made and more evidence gathered. Espinoza told police he and Rojas-Gutierrez were walking on L Street  where the shooting occurred  around the time of the incident, and that Martinez later picked them up, but denied being involved in the killing.

An investigator wrote, Based on the fact that (the suspects) left work early together, cellphone data record locations for Rojas-Gutierrez and Espinoza are in conjunction with Martinezs phone location, Martinez had a police scanner application turned on within minutes of (the murder), Espinoza admitted that he and Rojas-Gutierrez were walking near 1010 L St. at the time of the shooting, followed by Martinez picking them up, in addition to the aforementioned intercepted telephone calls, and contradicting statements, I believe that Rojas-Gutierrez, Espinoza and Martinez conspired to murder (the victim) for the benefit of, in association with, and at the direction of the West Side Bakers criminal street gang.

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No, thats not hyperbole or an exaggeration. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Weather Service within it provide not only life-saving benefits, but also significant economic benefits.

NOAA is responsible for issuing weather watches and warnings, monitoring and studying Earths climate, and operating all of our weather satellites, radars, supercomputers, and computer models, as well as protecting marine life.

The idea of making government "more efficient" should not apply to NOAA cuts. NOAA is one of the best investments of taxpayer dollars, with a recent study finding that while the National Weather service costs an estimated $1.4 billion, it delivers an economic return in excess of $100 billion. This should not be surprising given how much of the economy is tied to weather forecasts.

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If DOGE is looking for efficiencies and waste, NOAA is probably the last place to look.

Some believe the private sector is the solution to everything, but that is certainly not the case for some large-scale endeavors. Weather data and forecasting is one of those. Any private-sector weather company will tell you how vital a government-run weather service is. No single company could take on the costs of monitoring and maintaining a vast network of weather stations, satellites, supercomputers, and radars.

Take an example from the TV world. Not so long ago  say, 15 to 20 years ago  every Twin Cities TV station had its own weather radar. Now, only one or two stations operate their own. Radars are expensive. Supercomputers that run sophisticated weather models are also very expensive. Imagine a weather company based in Minneapolis having to maintain staff in the Arctic to repair a critical weather station or weather balloon launch site. Its simply not feasible.

Related: Winter storm watch in Minnesota, blizzard conditions possible as heavy snow arrives

Of course, meteorologists can work in both the public and private sectors. However, some of the best jobs, attracting the brightest talent, are within the federal government at NOAA. Thats because you want the best minds working on advancements in computer modeling, satellite remote sensing, and more. Stability is one of the key benefits that government has historically provided  something a for-profit corporation cannot always guarantee.

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These cuts, and potential future cuts, not only limit scientific advancement now, but also threaten future progress. We are discouraging the next generation of scientists, especially those driven by research, from discovering and improving weather prediction and forecasting.

NOAA mobile radar monitoring a thunderstorm.Credit: NOAA via Flickr

The National Weather Service was already short-staffed before these cuts. We are heading into a highly active severe weather season for the Plains and central U.S. where every minute counts, and where having the right expertise and technology literally saves lives.

Every meteorologist, whether in the private sector or government, relies on NOAA data and models every single day. Any disruption or decrease in the quality of this data will impact everyone, public and private sectors alike.

And that's not even addressing one of the greatest threats of our time: man-made climate change.

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NOAA is one of the worlds premier agencies deciphering, studying, and compiling climate data in our rapidly changing world. Significant cuts to NOAA not only undermine daily forecasting and warning capabilities, but also hinder our ability to combat and adapt to climate change  which is real, whether we want to believe it or not.

Efficiency and cost-saving strategies are reasonable, but dismantling an effective system and then scrambling to repair the damage after the fact is not a wise approach. Many people may not realize that the National Weather Service was already significantly downsized in the 1980s.

If anything, an argument can be made for expanding NOAA and the National Weather Service. For example, Minnesota lacks adequate radar coverage in north-central parts of the state. The Brainerd Lakes area, which sees a surge in population during the summer months, is about 100 miles away from radar stations in the Twin Cities, Duluth, or Fargo. That means meteorologists cant see whats happening at the base of a storm  crucial for detecting tornadoes and destructive winds. Radars are incredibly expensive to build, maintain, and operate.

Having skilled meteorologists providing 24/7 coverage of specific regions is also costly. But a world-class weather service  like a high-tech, ready military  is not something that can be done on the cheap or privatized for profit.

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BMTN Note: Weather events in isolation can't always be pinned on climate change, but the broader trend of increasingly severe weather and record-breaking extremes seen in Minnesota and across the globe can be attributed directly to the rapidly warming climate caused by human activity. The IPCC has warned that Earth is "firmly on track toward an unlivable world," and says greenhouse gas emissions must be halved by 2030 in order to limit warming to 1.5C, which would prevent the most catastrophic effects on humankind. You can read more here.
Mar. 2THOMPSON, N.D.  The Regional SWAT team and other law-enforcement agencies were activated for an incident in Thompson on Sunday, March 2.

According to a release from the Grand Forks County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred at approximately 10 a.m. when GFSO officers went to serve an arrest warrant at 528 Fourth St. No. 10 in Thompson. The warrant was for Joseph Arthur Rud, 44, of Thompson, who had an active felony arrest warrant for violating conditions of bond.

According to the release, deputies knocked and were able to confirm that Rud was in the residence. "After several minutes, deputies breached the door to the apartment and gave commands to Rud to come out. Rud did not comply. While searching the apartment for Rud, deputies entered a bedroom and found a gun safe that was opened. They observed an empty rifle case and a box of shells right on top of the safe."

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The release said deputies "could hear Rud barricading in another bedroom." The deputies then called for the Regional SWAT team as well as the Regional UAS, BOMB, and negotiations teams.

Rud eventually exited the apartment and was taken into custody without incident. The release from the Sheriff's Office said deputies recovered a loaded handgun in the residence.

Rud was taken to the Grand Forks County Correctional Center and was confined on a felony warrant and municipal failure to appear on a theft warrant. He was arrested upon suspicion of preventing arrest on a felony charge and felon in possession of a firearm.

Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the Sheriff's Office at 701-780-8280.
STOCKHOLM (Reuters) - Swedish police said on Monday they were investigating the suspected sabotage of a water pump on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea after the pump was cut off from power on Sunday.

The water and sewage unit for Gotland's municipality received a fault alarm for a water pump on Sunday at 1630 GMT, police said.

The possible sabotage could have left the entire island without water had it not been discovered, Swedish daily Aftonbladet reported on Monday, citing anonymous sources.

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"Technicians went to the site and found that someone had opened an electrical cabinet, pulled out a cable and thereby cut the power to the pump," police said in an emailed statement.

The pump is working again, they said, adding that they had not detained anyone in the case.

(This story has been corrected to change the time to 1630 GMT, not 1830 GMT, in paragraph 2)

(Reporting by Johan Ahlander, Terje Solsvik and Louise Rasmussen, editing by Bernadette Baum)
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A former federal judge now tasked with righting the ship at the Memphis Police Department is speaking with WREG in her first interview.

Judge Bernice Donald is the new head of the task force created by the City of Memphis in lieu of entering a Department of Justice consent decree over police practices.

Judge Donald will lead a nine-person group that will look at reforming MPD after an investigation found a pattern of discrimination against Black people, children and people with disabilities.

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Memphis hires former federal judge to monitor MPD

WREG asked Judge Donald how much independence the task force will have and whether they will be able to make any real change.

I have total independence as an independent monitor. I have, and Im committed to transparency for the community, Donald said. I think how much change needs to be made is largely dependent on what problems we find and what the will of the department and the will of the citizens is for addressing those things.

The task force is made up of a mental health expert, pastors, educators, former police brass and a community activist who has been critical of police.

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Citys attorney says Memphis wont enter consent decree with DOJ over police reform

Many asked if some of those individuals should be a part of designing police reform.

Its important to have diverse voices, diverse points of view on the task force, Donald said. But there will be professional subject matter experts who will really be looking at the practices and policies of the police department and making recommendations to police. Either enhancements or saying the policies are fine and what we need is accountability, and its important for those voices to be heard.

The task force is already meeting and hopes to have suggestions for the city in a couple of years.

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TOPEKA (KSNT)  Law enforcement and agents with the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) seized assets belonging to two northeast Kansas Mexican restaurants recently for failure to pay thousands in taxes.

Aubrey Challquist with KDOR provided 27 News with two press releases on Monday, March 3 regarding two business seizure operations that occurred at 10 a.m. on Feb. 26. KDOR agents and local law enforcement seized assets belonging to two Salty Iguana restaurants located in Lawrence and Prairie Village.

New Panda Express opening in Topeka, what to know

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KDOR seized assets such as known bank accounts, on-site case, business inventory along with personal property belonging to the owner from both restaurants. These items will be sold at a public auction to help pay off the delinquent taxes.

KDORs policy and practice is to work with taxpayers in delinquent status to voluntarily enter into repayment agreements. It is only after these efforts and multiple failed collection attempts that the Department is forced to execute a tax warrant, utilizing such actions as bank levies, till taps, and ultimately asset seizure to ensure compliance with the law. KDOR press release excerpt.

Challquist said the Lawrence location was cited for nonpayment of $103,204.96 while the Prairie Village restaurant had nonpayment of $102,160.24 associated with Kansas sales and liquor drink taxes. Challquist said the two restaurants were seized and closed as they couldnt reach an acceptable payment agreement with KDOR.

Roundabout construction near Topeka causes frustration among locals

Salty Iguana issued a statement through a social media post on the situation on March 1. You can read the statement below:

We been working diligently with the State of Kansas, our partner for over 30 years, to try and resolve the issues at our Prairie Village and Lawrence locations. Our family business has been waiting for the Employee Retention Credit Refund from the IRS for two years and we have hired a Tax attorney to expedite this matter. The attorney is confident that we should receive the refund soon. Our family is so grateful to our loyal customers and many employees that make Salty Iguana feel like home. Salty Iguana social media statement

State agents seize assets at Kansas bar and grill for failure to pay $52,000 in taxes

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For more local news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Follow Matthew Self on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MatthewLeoSelf

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Rhode Island lawmakers have a choice when it comes to a proposed tax on digital advertising, which opponents say could hurt small businesses and consumers. (Photo by Janine L. Weisman/Rhode Island Current)

As a former South Dakota State senator, past president of the National Conference of State Legislators, and a Certified Public Accountant, Ive seen firsthand how tax policies can either help or hurt a states economy. The digital advertising tax that is being pushed in Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKees proposed fiscal 2026 budget is a clear case of the latter  a misguided policy that threatens to harm every small business and consumer in the Ocean State.

Advertising isnt just about flashy billboards or catchy jingles; its a cornerstone of economic activity. An independent study commissioned by the Association of National Advertisers shows that advertising expenditures generate a whopping $22.4 billion in economic activity in Rhode Island alone, supporting over 106,000 jobs. Thats 15.5% of all jobs in the state.

When you tax digital advertising, youre not just targeting faceless tech giants, youre hitting the local coffee shop trying to reach new customers, the family-run bookstore promoting a weekend sale, and the startup striving to make its mark. You might think youre hitting the big guy but youre really just stepping on the little guy.

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As I noted in my testimony in front of the Senate Finance Committee, because of this tax, small businesses would face tough choices. That is not the fate that legislators should be rooting for when it comes to Rhode Islands small business community. Proponents of this tax argue its aimed at billion-dollar corporations, but history tells a different story. In France, a similar digital advertising tax ended up passing 55% percent of its burden onto consumers, according to a Deloitte study.

Beyond the straight economic impact, this tax is a double whammy for businesses. Rhode Island companies already pay income tax, now theyd be taxed again just for advertising their products and services. This kind of double taxation doesnt just strain businesses - it discourages them from growing, investing, and hiring. For a state in which business owners already face significant headwinds, this tax could be the final straw for many entrepreneurs.

You might think youre hitting the big guy but youre really just stepping on the little guy.

Lets not forget the legal minefield this tax creates. Marylands attempt to implement a similar tax has been tied up in costly legal battles, draining taxpayer dollars with no end in sight. The proposed tax in Rhode Island could face similar challenges, potentially violating the First Amendment, the Dormant Commerce Clause, and federal laws like the Internet Tax Freedom Act. If the courts strike it down, Rhode Island could be on the hook to refund every cent collected, plus interest. With an already challenging fiscal situation on the horizon, thats a gamble the state cant afford to take.

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Digital advertising has been a game-changer for small businesses, leveling the playing field and allowing them to reach audiences far beyond their local communities. Over the past decade, its fueled growth and innovation, helping more than 100,000 small businesses in Rhode Island thrive. Taxing this critical tool doesnt just stifle growth - it sends a message that Rhode Island isnt open for business.

A tax on digital advertising isnt just bad policy, its a step backward.

Rhode Island lawmakers have a choice: they can pursue short-sighted revenue grabs that hurt the very people theyre supposed to serve, or they can focus on fostering a business-friendly environment that encourages growth, innovation, and prosperity.

I urge lawmakers to reject this harmful tax and instead focus on policies that build a stronger, more competitive state.

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Humans have been leaving their mark upon Earth for almost as long as weve existed. But over the last 70 years  little more than moments in the 300,000-year history of Homo sapiens  the amount of stuff weve added to the planet has erupted in volume, surpassing living organisms in both mass and diversity. And while this cascade has appeared in a flash, geologically speaking, it will persist for tens of millions of years  if not longer.

The long-term legacy of civilization has tickled the imagination of science fiction writers from Isaac Asimov to the minds behind the cartoon sitcom Futurama. But the intricacies of how our artifacts might fossilize or decay has been largely left to speculation. What geologic evidence will be offered by the hundreds of thousands of synthetic materials humans have engineered? Will polyester underwear, just one item among the 92 million tons of textiles cast aside every year, squashed in layers of strata over millennia, be recognizable as clothing to future archaeologists? Could the unending network of roads, the 3 billion miles of copper wiring, and other detritus reveal the technological interconnectedness of modern life?

In their upcoming book, Discarded: How Technofossils Will be Our Ultimate Legacy, paleontologist Sarah Gabbott and geologist Jan Zalasiewicz explore these questions. They reference the minerals, metals, and fossils already in the archeological record to provide compelling evidence of how everyday objects like ballpoint pens or the chicken bones from dinner might endure for eons. By their measure, rising seas and sinking land could preserve entire cities like New Orleans, leaving them for scholars in the distant future to puzzle over, much like current ones ponder Pompeii.

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Gabbott and Zalasiewicz use the term technofossils to describe the objects that will leave a distinct mark on Earths geologic record. These remnants are part of the technosphere, a concept geologist Peter Haff popularized to describe the mass of everything humanity has created or changed, akin to the natural worlds biosphere. Beyond these artifacts, the industries that created them have left their own scars upon the planet: Atmospheric signatures in carbon isotopes, fly ash from burning fossil fuels, and radioactive waste will be among the clues left for geochemists studying what Zalasiewicz calls our carbon extravaganza and energy binge.



Grist caught up with Gabbott and Zalasiewicz to discuss what todays trash will tell tomorrows archaeologists, geologists, and others about the lives we led. This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Q: Why did you decide to write the book?

Jan Zalasiewicz: For a while now, Ive had an interest in the geology of the future  how the things we do and make on Earth right now will have an impact in the far future. Theres always been this question of the stuff that we make: The chairs, tables, cars, toothbrushes, and all of that. Something will happen to them, but what? The answer can really be quite subtle and complicated. Thats where it seemed the perfect opportunity to team up with Sarah, who has developed huge expertise in looking at some of the worlds best preserved fossils and in working out how they got preserved and what they can tell us.

Sarah Gabbott: In my career, Ive been looking backward in time at ancient fossils. Now, I can use that experience and apply it in fast forward to the stuff we make today. Jan has been pivotal in the exploration of the idea of the Anthropocene and this new kind of era of geological time, so its a case where were the perfect team to address these issues.

Q: How did you go about sleuthing out the fate of our technofossils?

JZ: We look back from stuff that we make now to ancient analogs, or near analogs, that we can use to [compare]. But there are others where we had to really scratch our heads and think how things might behave. Metals are a case in point: Were used to living with iron, steel, copper, and aluminum, but there are not many pure metals in nature. We really had to think through the chemistry and physics of how these things might behave. Minerals were even worse  Earth has around 5,000 natural minerals but only a few are common. Humans have made more than 200,000 of new mineral types. Theres no geologic analog for working out how they will behave centuries, or millions of years, from now.

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SG: Anything that relates back to life has an easy analog. The fast food chapter, for example, focuses quite a lot on chickens because, obviously, there are loads and loads of chickens around today, and humans changed their evolution. We could think about fossil feathers, because they preserve so well.

Another one that was interesting was fossil fashion. You can consider natural materials, like hemp and cotton, and its surprising how little of that stuff preserves well. But then you go back far, far in time and youve got dinosaur and snake skins that are so beautifully preserved from 10 million years ago that you can even tell what color they were in life.

Q: You highlight some surprising examples of technofossils, like childrens drawings, pencils, and ballpoint pens. What drew you to them?



SG: The inspiration came from all different lines of thinking. With the pencil and ballpoint pen, the train of thought started with, What aspect of our writing will last the test of time? We may tend to think that the future fossil record of what we write will be bound up in computers and hard drives, but they can be easily corrupted and hard to decode. So, I started thinking about writing. The ballpoint pen, the graphite in pencils  ink can last a long time, but graphite can last billions and billions of years.

Discarded plastic items and other trash litter a beach in Scotland and a man walks with two dogs in the background.

Q: What about plastics?



SG: Plastic has a chemical backbone that is incredibly strong and difficult to change, but it has only really been around since the 1900s. We havent had long enough to run experiments to really work out how long this stuff is going to last. If you want to work out what might happen to it under extreme conditions, we can stick it in very hot conditions, or expose it to really extreme UV light. But lets be honest, most plastic out there is litter  its exposed to normal conditions.



So we started asking some basic questions, running basic experiments on plastic bags, and thinking about fossil analogs. There are polymers that life makes that are almost identical, chemically. We can use the fossil analog to say of this stuff, If you take it out of sunlight and away from heat, it is going to last 50 million years plus. Some of it is going to make microplastics, some of it will get broken down by sunlight, but all these plastic materials that are getting buried are going to potentially last millions and millions of years.



JZ: Take any old plastic debris in a landfill site where cement has been dumped over the plastic  that plastic would be so well protected that its very hard to see how that plastic will disappear. It will stay there. The only way it will change is, as it is buried deeper and deeper, the plastic will slowly begin to lose some of its hydrogen, lose some of its oxygen, and it will carbonize and turn into a more brittle kind of carbon film that will still preserve a very detailed structure. We know thats exactly how fossils behave.

Q: So much of humanitys waste ends up in landfills. Should we think of these repositories as time capsules or time bombs?

SG: In places where landfills are managed, each layer is wrapped up in plastic and they tend to be fairly dry environments away from sunlight. Without water, bacteria cant thrive, and without bacteria you dont get decay, so a lot of the stuff is going to sit around mummifying. But theyre also, potentially, a toxic time bomb, because of course weve built a lot of landfills on coastal and river floodplains  in the U.S., youve got at least 50,000 landfills along coastlines. So as sea level rises, theres a massive problem: The degree to which those are going to be buried safely over time, or whether theyre going to erode and disgorge of all that stuff into the oceans, we dont really know.

Q: Can people of the future mine our refuse as a resource?

JZ: That should, of course, be pursued, but itll be tricky and complicated. Each landfill is going to be different and present different problems.

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SG: Basically, we chuck everything in landfills, and records of what goes in and where it goes are very, very minimal. You say, OK, Ill mine it for plastic and then Ill recycle that plastic. But if theres food waste around, or metal waste, forever chemicals, and so forth  all this stuff is kind of a chemical cocktail that can contaminate the stuff you want to take out of the landfill.

Q: You mentioned sea level rise. In what other ways is climate change reshaping the geologic record?

JZ: We know ice cores and the strata within ice, on Greenland and Antarctica in particular, give us such an important part of our climate history through the chemistry of air bubbles trapped in the ice. That is helping us predict climate now, but the flip side of that is that early stages of global warming are already beginning to melt that ice. Greenland and Antarctica are losing billions of tons of ice each year, and depending on how far climate change goes, that ice will melt and that detailed, sophisticated, perfect climate record will melt away with it.

Q: In the absence of evidence like ice cores, will some record of humanitys impact on the atmosphere survive?

JZ: Energy is so central to our lives, and a massive energy splurge has really taken off over the last 70 years. Theres no planetary analog for this kind of thing that we know of. Most of the stuff we burn for energy becomes carbon dioxide, of course, but the bits of carbon which are not burnt turn into fly ash, which are these tiny particles of carbon that  a bit like plastic  are almost completely indigestible to microbes. These tiny smoke particles land everywhere in the millions. So all around the world, there is a preserved smoke signal in the strata. Its a really good marker for the Anthropocene.



SG: Theres all sorts of traces of climate change, but theres this other kind of legacy of energy, and that is the infrastructure that we build to generate it and to transport it around the world. And each year we produce enough copper to wrap around the Earth more than 5,000 times. So, were also leaving a legacy of the way that we shunt this energy around the Earth, as well as just the record of how its changing the climate.

This story was originally published by Grist with the headline Technofossils: How future archeologists will study our everyday objects on Mar 3, 2025.
Mia is a teenage girl from Mexico who can read her mothers mind. Akhil is a young man in New Jersey who is seeing things through other peoples eyes. And Lily parleys brain-to-brain with friends who are far away from where she lives in Georgia. According to The Telepathy Tapes, a 10-part audio series that is now one of the most popular podcasts in America, Mia, Akhil, and Lily are nonspeaking people with autism who have a special skill: Theyre savants for ESP.

Some nonspeaking children with autism end up learning to use language when they get a little older. Others may use sets of cards with pictures to communicate. But Mia, Akhil, and Lily, whose last names arent given in the podcast, are spellers, which means that they express themselves, with other peoples help, by pointing to a letterboard or typing on a screen. Proponents of this method say that it unlocks its users hidden gifts and proves their competence. An abiding faith in spelling has been expressed in documentary films, TV news reports, and best-selling books. But The Telepathy Tapes takes that faith one step further. Spelling is not just inspirational, the show suggests; it redefines the limits of perception and reality.

However grandiose this mission, to call the podcast scrappy would be to oversell its polish: Hosted and created by the documentary filmmaker and self-described science nerd Ky Dickens, The Telepathy Tapes editing is choppy and its music sounds homemade. The scientific tests that it describes, which aim to prove that Mia and the others really do spell out their parents thoughts, are of dubious design. Yet the show has been a fixture since December on the Apple charts for audio, and was nominated for an iHeartMedia Podcast of the Year award; production just began for an associated documentary film. Dickens declined interview requests and did not answer emailed questions for this story, but last week she was a guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, where she spoke for two and a half hours about her podcast. Im sure youve opened up a lot of peoples minds to this, Rogan said to her with admiration. This could be a profound change in, just, society as a whole.

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But for people who may be less inclined than he to accept the podcasts story at face valuethose who have what Dickens and her subjects call a materialist mindsetanother sort of message might be coming through. The Telepathy Tapes is more interested in showing off the extraordinary talents of its subjects than in engaging with skeptics. The show responds with moral outrage to any evidence that might cast doubt on ESP, or indeed on spelling itself, as if disbelief could only ever be a form of ableism. But in assuming a reality where reading minds is possible and astral planes can be traversed, it misses something more compelling: Humans really do possess a superpower for connection, with unpredictable effects.

Okay, so Mia is supposedly a telepath: Show her mother a number or a picture, and Mia will tell you what it is. On The Telepathy Tapes, Dickens tests this skill with the help of a psychiatrist, paranormal investigator, and anti-vaccine campaigner named Diane Hennacy Powell: The crew, myself, and Dr. Powell were meticulous about making sure this test was bulletproof. They set up at a rented house in Glendale, California. At Powells instruction, a wall mirror is removed and a TV screen is covered up, so that Mia, who is also wearing a really intense and very dark blindfold, cant catch sight of any cue in their reflection. Before each trial of the number test, Powell opens up an app that generates random digits and taps it not just once but many times, to make sure that it was super random.

The podcasts long, initial description of this testing process leaves out one important factor: how Mias spelling works. Video clips of the experiments (which are posted to the podcasts website behind a $9.99 paywall) show that every time she reaches to the letterboard, her mother grasps her chin or puts a finger on her forehead, and also holds the board herself. The contact is nonstop. Ive seen the same dynamic many times before in my own interviews with spellers and have learned that even gentle touch, or minor movements of the letterboard, can be a source of subtle and subconscious cues. In this way, Mias mother could be guiding Mias spelling and nudging it toward certain answers, whether theyre aware of it or not.

I first learned about this method of communication in 2014 while reporting for a story, published in The New York Times Magazine, on the case of Anna Stubblefield, then a philosopher of race and disability at Rutgers University, who had taught a students brothera nonspeaking man diagnosed with severe physical and cognitive disabilitiesto type into a keyboard as she held his hand. In the months that followed, the mans inner life, and his prodigious talents, appeared to be suddenly let loose. He started taking college classes. He published a peer-reviewed, academic paper. He made plans to move into his own apartment.

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The man also fell in love with Stubblefield, at least according to the typed-out messages. And she fell in love with him. Eventually they started having sex. His consent was given via spelling, which he could do only with her support (and that of certain others). A criminal trial followed, on the premise that the messages were fakeor rather, that Stubblefield herself had been their author, perhaps unwittingly. If that were true, it meant their love affair had been a story of her own creationthat shed somehow managed to seduce herself, through the pressure she was placing on his hand. Stubblefield wound up pleading guilty to aggravated criminal sexual contact and serving close to two years in jail. (Nick August-Pernas documentary film about this case, Tell Them You Love Me, was a Netflix hit last year.)

The form of communication that Stubblefield was teaching had been invented in Australia in the 1970s by a woman named Rosemary Crossley to help a nonspeaking girl with cerebral palsy who was languishing inside a state-run home. Crossley, who died in 2023 (and with whom I spoke for many hours), claimed to have discovered that the girl and others in the home could spell out words on a letterboard if their arms were being held a certain way. I was acting as a responsive item of furniture, Crossley wrote in a 1980 memoir, not moving her arm but simply facilitating her own movement. This method would be called facilitated communication, or FC.

[Read: The battle over a controversial method for autism communication]

By the early 1990s, FC had been imported to America and declared a miracle. News outlets covered its astonishing success, as kids who had been diagnosed with low IQs and never spoken in their lives appeared to have their minds unlocked by Crossleys method. The movement had the spirit of an uprising. Every child whose inner life FC revealed was a challenge to the system that had failed them; their messages were taken as a source of liberation, whether from actual imprisonment in institutions or from the softer tyranny of meager expectations.

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But from the very start, this story lent itself to other readings too. Children with autism made a spate of sexual-abuse allegations via keyboard that could not be corroborated, and seemed to be untrue. And certain aspects of FC just came off as fishy. Kids who had barely gotten any education were able, all at once, to communicate through text. Some went on to college. How could they have learned so much, so quickly? When similar doubts had been raised in Australia, Crossley offered some unlikely explanationsfor instance, that the kids shed worked with learned addition and subtraction by watching Sesame Street, as her book explains, then figured out multiplication and division, as well as how to work with fractions, on their own.

As FC spread throughout U.S. education, skeptics mobilized to run double-blind experiments and determine whether spelling really works. In one often-used test, researchers showed a picture to a speller while his or her supporter or facilitator wasnt in the room; then theyd have the speller write out, with the facilitators help, what theyd seen. Few, if any, such experiments succeeded. Under these controlled conditions, the same kids and young adults who were writing poetry in school appeared unable to declare that theyd just seen a picture of a sandwich. This suggested that they were not actuallyor not entirelythe authors of the words theyd been typing. Rather, their messages had been channeled from the people who were touching them, or holding up the letterboards, in the same way that people using a Ouija board can spell out messages without realizing theyre doing so.

As of 1994, its fair to say, the method was debunked. The American Psychological Association came out against its usestudies have repeatedly demonstrated that facilitated communication is not a scientifically valid technique, it said. The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and lots of other professional groups agreed. But FC never really went away. Instead, its users floated off into the fringe, where any criticism could be tossed into the sea. The message-passing tests had been unfair, adherents told me, because they made spellers angry or confused. Why should the spellers have to acquiesce to scientific inquiries, their families and facilitators asked, when theyve already shown they have a voice?

Certain users of FCits hard to know how manyreally can communicate, to some extent, without another persons touch. Ive seen this for myself: I met a few typers who could spell out words completely on their own, though the messages they produced with others help had much greater fluency. But such cases appear to be exceptional. For most spellersnearly all of them, perhapsmessage-passing is a challenge even when they arent being made uncomfortable. At a conference held in Syracuse, New York, in 2014, I observed a friendly class on how to pass this sort of test. Every speller in the room was told to pull an object from a baga toy car, a crayon, a sockwhile their facilitators looked away. Could they then type out what theyd seen? They could not. This mattered little to the parents at the conference, who told me that they simply didnt worry much about the so-called science. You could puzzle over tables in someones published meta-analysis, one kids mom explained, or you could keep on talking to your son.

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The Telepathy Tapes is well aware of all this history; it just rejects it. The scandals of the 1990s arose from the errant work of untrained, or barely trained facilitators, the podcast says, rather than from FC itself. Since then, the old mechanical keyboards have mostly been swapped out for iPad screens, plastic boards, and letter stencils, as part of newer versions of the method such as Rapid Prompting and Spelling to Communicate. Whatever it might now be called, FC remains as unreliable as ever, according to a 2018 statement from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. But Dickens claims the opposite, and argues that the research purporting to discredit spelling has fallen out of date. The accusation that most spellers are not actually communicating, that someone is pushing their hand around or moving around the letterboard, is unabashedly, unequivocally false, she says on the show. As one parent tells her: The thing is, Ky, we cant all be lying.

Indeed, the podcast goes so far as to invert the question that skeptics started asking in the 90s: whether spellers were capable of sharing information that their facilitators didnt know. The Telepathy Tapes asks instead whether spellers might have access to information that only their facilitators know. Or put another way: Can they read their facilitators minds?

If anything could prove that facilitators are at risk of substituting their own ideas for those of the people they intend to help, this should be it. And yet Dickens and her subjects have drawn the opposite conclusion. The parents seem delighted by their childrens ability to read their minds, not suspicious of it. Some do end up feeling a bit unnerved, Dickens says, by the fact that they can no longer hide birthday presents from their kid, or protect their private thoughts. But instead of taking that supernatural knowledge as a hint that spelling is unsound, they conclude that ESP is real.

The faction of facilitators who have landed on the same belief dates back to the 1990s too. One important, early advocate for FC suggested that users might have access to vestigial psychic abilities. Arthur Golden, who appears on the podcast and has said that he began communicating telepathically with his nonspeaking, autistic son in April 1994, told me that many who were getting trained in the method at that time reported having similar experiences. But Crossley and the other prominent advocates for FC shut down this sort of talk, perhaps because they worried it could only undermine their methods credibility. To this day, many in the spelling world rebuff supernatural claims: On the podcast, parents say that theyve been shushed in online forums, or shut down from sharing their experiences at conferences. On Rogans show, Dickens called it all a big cover-up.

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Soma Mukhopadhyay, who created the Rapid Prompting method, told me that a perception of telepathy may arise from the fact that facilitators will at times predict what a speller wants to say, just like your cellphone does while youre typing in a text message. Mukhopadhyay said that attributing this effect to psychic powers wont help autistic children in the long run, but she shied away from telling people what to do or think. I wouldnt ask the parents not to believe in telepathy, she said. Everyone is a grown-up. Everyone can do what they want. Diane Hennacy Powell, the psychiatrist who consulted on the podcasts experiments and who has published a book about ESP, was more direct. I am more conservative than Ky about the scientific conclusions and dont believe telepathy has been sufficiently proven, she told me via email. She is a filmmaker and not a scientist, so its important to acknowledge our different perspectives. (Powell also said she could not discuss the matter in more detail because of a nondisclosure agreement.)

The telepathic spellers, then, are on the fringes fringe, shunned by both spellings critics and its true believers. And as The Telepathy Tapes moves along, Dickens and her subjects claims become even further unmoored from any dock posts of common sense. Spellers whom Dickens first describes as merely having ESP are soon credited with even more amazing powers and uncanny knowings, such as detecting cancer and finding ways to cure it. By the end of the series, Dickenswho repeatedly declares herself a skeptichas explained that spellers may project themselves into alternative dimensions; that they can speak with angels; that they visit friends in dreams and prophesy disaster. Could the government utilize these individuals? she said to Rogan last week. Its a fair worry.

Any suspicions one might have about spellings authenticity are submerged into the same phantasmagoric narrative. What explains these kids stunning breadth of knowledge? Naturally, they did their coursework in the great beyond. One of the podcasts telepaths is said to have instantly learned everything there was to know about The Great Gatsby during a nightly visit to a school in heaven. And Akhil, the young man in New Jersey, is said to be sharing messages from long-dead relativesa very common gift among the spiritual savant spellers, according to the podcast.

[From the August 1918 issue: Dead Authors]

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Someone else might take the latter as another sign that spelling works by leveraging a Ouija-board effectgiven that here its being used, just like a Ouija board, to communicate with ghosts. But Akhil does appear to be doing something unique among the spellers whose tests have been filmed and posted on the podcasts website. After many years of practice spelling with his mother, he now appears to do so independently, typing on an iPad keyboard without ever being touched at all, and with no ones hand on his device.

But a closer look suggests that his mother is still guiding him, even though she may not realize it. She does not touch him, but she is highly active all the same: She issues words of encouragement and makes other sounds; she flutters her hands in concert with his typing; and she adjusts her posture while hes reaching for the screen, as if her body were a joystick. One of the video clips shows an experiment in which he spells out mariposa. You can see his mother in the background, leaning to the right as Akhils finger moves in that direction to type out i-p-o; and then moving leftward, as his finger does the same, for s-a.

If such cuing, rather than the spirit realm, is the source of Akhils messages, then one must still acknowledge that he has extraordinary talents. For this mode of spelling to work as well as it does, Akhil would need to possess an exquisite sensitivity to his mothers subtle cues; hed have to be so attuned to her every gesture and expression, that even chirps and leans and flutters could serve as radar signals, directing him to specific letters on the screen. In other words, hed need to have special access to his mothers mind.

This is not telepathy, but it is connectiona connection so intense that I dont think it would be far off to call it love. A different, reckless version of this bond was at the center of the Stubblefield trial. When my story on that case was published, I quickly came to understand that readers were responding to the romance, real or not, that formed its core. A flock of artists emails quickly landed in my inbox, pitching plans for heartfelt adaptations: movies, operas, poems. The story has everything we are looking for, one French film producer said: love, desire, manipulation and mystery.

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We have a deep drive to connect and know each other, Dickens says at one point in her series. But the podcast shows this instinct is a complicated gift. Humans are virtuosic at creating bonds; were savants for filling space with meaning. But were also zealous at defending them. Pointing at a letterboard, aided by a gentle touch, can seem to open up a window on another persons mind. That effort at communion is a holy, humanistic act. But its magic can be isolating, too, by conjuring relationships that dont exist, and marooning us within a universe where anything is real.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
Get ready to lace up those dancing shoes.

It's time for another installment of The Tennessean's Student of the Week, and this time, we're all about the dance.

From tap to hip-hop, and everything in between, we asked Middle Tennessee schools to tell us all about their most talented dancers and why they should be chosen as our Student of the Week.

After a weeklong nomination period, The Tennessean received six responses from guidance counselors, teachers and principals.

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Polls are open now and will close at noon on March 6, so be sure to cast your votes and help your favorite dancer land on top. And don't forget, this is a special week. After this poll closes, we will be taking a short recess for Spring Break and plan to return with more Student of the Week polls on March 31.

But, before all that, let's learn more about each student from the person who nominated them:

Aidynn Oden: Gallatin High School

The sophomore is a member of the award-winning Wavettes dance team and enrolled in the dance program at Gallatin High School. Oden and her team recently competed at the National Dance Alliance High School Dance Nationals in Orlando, Florida, where they placed 5th in Hip Hop and 8th in Game Day. Additionally, she is an assistant choreographer for the dance program's spring concert.

Ella Procter: Montgomery Central High School

The senior has danced her whole life at her local studio and throughout her matriculation in high school. During her sophomore year, Procter suffered a tear in her shoulder that caused surgery and 6 weeks off. She didnt let that stop her, though. She came back stronger than ever!

Ava Goggin: Beech High School

The junior has been on the dance team since she was freshman. Goggin is such a devoted team member and incredibly talented dancer. She not only performs on the dance team but dances on a competition team with American Academy of Dance in Hendersonville.

Bryleigh Johnson: Rossview High School

The senior has been training to dance since the age of three at Dance Force. As soon as she was eligible, she joined both her middle school and high school dance teams. Johnson has been a committed varsity member of the RHS dance team for four years and now serves as captain. Throughout all four years of high school, she has balanced the demands of competitive dance while maintaining her focus on education and leadership. Her commitment, discipline and passion exemplify the qualities of an outstanding student-athlete.

Annabella Venerma: Mount Juliet High School

The senior has danced for roughly 11 years with nine of those being competitive. She has been a part of the Mount Juliet High School Dance Team (MJDT) for the past 3 years and served as a captain this past season. This past season, her hip-hop routine once again placed 7th in the nation. She was also awarded the DTU Pro award this past season at DTU Camp, a three-day dance summer camp through the competitive circuit Dance Team Union. After high school, she plans to attend a four-year university and major in sustainability studies.

Ella Gould: Montgomery Central High School

The senior has been a member of the dance team for 4 years and is currently a captain. She has overcome a lot in her 4 years on the MCHS dance team and has battled her way back from injury. She was recently named an All American at Universal Dance Association dance camp. This year she also helped lead her team to placing 6th place in nationals in the hip-hop division.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: The Tennessean Student of the Week celebrates dancers. Vote now
Tennessee is set to resume the executions of people on death row, even as more Tennesseans express opposition to it. (Photo by Mike Simons/Getty Images)

Quietly, on Dec. 27, 2024, the Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) completed a multi-year lethal injection protocol review ordered by Gov. Bill Lee in 2022. The completed review marked the end of a pause Lee had placed on executions.

The ink was barely dry on TDOCs report when, on Feb. 14, the Tennessee Attorney Generals Office asked the state Supreme Court to set execution dates for five of the 46 people currently on death row.

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This all comes at a time when Gallup reports Americans support for capital punishment is at a five-decade low, a drop in support thats evident even in red states. According to a 2022 Vanderbilt poll, a majority of Tennesseans now oppose the death penalty.

Historically, Tennessee has led the South in efforts to abolish the death penalty

Tennessees history regarding capital punishment is surprisingly progressive, and with no executions in five years, theres no reason the 2020 execution of Nicholas Sutton shouldnt be Tennessees last.

Moments when Tennessee went against the grain regarding capital punishment include:

Tennessee became the first state in the nation to turn away from the traditional and mandatory death sentence for convicted murderers in 1838.

Tennessee was the only former Confederate state to abolish execution in the late 1800s. The state legislature formally ended capital punishment in 1915, reinstating it in 1919.

Tennessee had one of the longest pauses on executions in the nation, with no executions committed between 1960 and 2000.

In 1965, Gov. Frank Clement commuted the sentences of everyone on Tennessees death row after a bill to abolish capital punishment was defeated by just one vote.

Tennessee became one of the first of four states to exclude the death penalty for those with intellectual disabilities in 1990.

Throughout the 2000s and 2010s, multiple moratoriums were placed on capital punishment while the state reviewed its execution protocols.

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Why examine the history? Because its not a foregone conclusion that just because Tennessee is a red state, its residents must sit idly by and condone state-sanctioned murder

Could I put an amendment on that bill (regarding methods of execution) that would include hanging by a tree?

 Rep. Paul Sherrell, R-Sparta, Feb. 28, 2023

Why the death penalty must be opposed

The death penalty is uncivilized in theory and unfair in practice. It must be opposed because:

It can result in the deaths of innocent people. The U.S. criminal justice system is deeply flawed and often makes mistakes. Since 1973, at least 200 people who were on death row were later exonerated. For every eight people executed in the U.S., one person sentenced to death is exonerated, meaning the system is only right 88% of the time. Its impossible to know how many innocent Americans have been executed before they could be exonerated, because courts dont entertain claims of innocence for dead people. But civil rights groups have gathered troves of evidence showing dozens of executed prisoners were innocent.

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It is not an effective deterrent. The death penalty is often used as a political tool to create the illusion of being tough on crime while doing nothing to address the underlying social and economic factors that lead to crime. The states with the highest murder rates all practice capital punishment. Meanwhile, Canadas murder rate is half what it was when our neighbors to the north abolished their death penalty in 1976.

It is applied unfairly. The death penalty is disproportionately imposed upon those whose victims are white, on offenders who are people of color, and on people who are poor and uneducated. In Tennessee, only 40% of homicides involve white victims, yet 74% of all death sentences are for those convicted of killing white people.

It is a blatant violation of ones Constitutional rights. The death penalty constitutes cruel and unusual punishment, a violation of the Eighth Amendment. According to the ACLU, It is cruel because it is a relic of the earliest days of penology, when slavery, branding, and other corporal punishments were commonplace. Like those barbaric practices, executions have no place in a civilized society. It is unusual because only the United States of all the western industrialized nations engages in this punishment.

Cognitive dissonance is the last obstacle to abolishing capital punishment

Though the death penalty feels as well-entrenched as ever and though Tennessee may soon return to executing prisoners, the practice is hanging on by a thread. In Tennessee and other red states, the only group still supporting capital punishment are conservatives.

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Why are many conservatives quick to call out inefficiencies and errors in government, yet theyre willing to back the government to the hilt when it comes to the life-or-death decision to carry out an execution? Many conservatives say the government is untrustworthy and makes mistakes all the time, but not on matters of capital punishment?

Granting the government  which can and does make mistakes  the right to kill Americans means handing it immense power with little oversight, something conservatives are typically loath to do. With that in mind, one does not even need to engage in questions about the morality of delivering death as punishment for a crime because the answer to the previous question  can the government be trusted to administer death as punishment?  is no.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX






A bill requiring Tennessee school districts to ban use of cell phones, laptops, smart watches and other devices during instructional time passed the state House of Representatives with bipartisan support on Monday.

House Bill 932 passed the House in a vote of 80 to 10 on Monday afternoon, and now needs one final Senate vote  expected Thursday  before it heads to Gov. Bill Lees desk. Tennessee is one of several states considering similar statewide policies this year.

With everything that we have learned about the harm that cell phones are doing, the amount of time it takes for a student to refocus after they have had a message show up on their cell phone, all the information that we have have been given in the past year has led us to the assumption that every school district should want to do this type of policy if they want what's best for their students, said Rep. Rebecca Alexander, R-Jonesborough.

Sophomore Dmya Bell, 16, gets in her last cellphone usage before entering KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. The school uses Yondr pouches for students to lock up their phones during school hours.

As written, the bill would require each school district to develop and implement policies restricting the use of any wireless communication devices  including cellphones, tablets, smart watches, laptop computers and gaming devices  during instructional time. Exceptions would be made for students who need to use devices for educational purposes, students with disabilities and medical needs, such as diabetic students who need to check their insulin level, and students with special learning needs.

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Policy specifics would be up to local school boards discretion, and would be submitted to the State Board of Education. Districts could adopt policies requiring students to stop device use at the beginning of the school day  bell to bell  or adopt restrictions on their use during classroom time only.

The bill requires districts to allow students to access and use devices in emergency situations.

If signed into law, the measure would take effect on July 1, and apply statewide beginning in the 2025-26 school year.

Rep. Dan Howell, R-Cleveland, said schools in his district held focus groups with parents, principals and teachers, and support a statewide requirement.

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"They can develop their own policy, but even though there's overwhelming support, there are some, as we know, who always criticize anything. We need to have their back," Howell said. "Our teachers work in a very difficult environment sometimes, and we need to have their back."

Rep. Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville, said during the House debate that she is unaware of a school district that does not already have a cell phone or device policy in place  and most have had them for years. Alexander said the bill came at the request of a statewide group of school superintendents.

Senior Saniyah Morris, 17, uses her cellphone at KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. The school uses Yondr pouches for students to lock up their phones during school hours.

Some Tennessee schools and districts already have similar policies in place. At KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School, for example, students are required to lock phones away in sealed pouches for the day. Teachers and staff there say kids are more engaged in class, and cyberbullying and similar conflicts have greatly decreased since the ban.

More: As cellphone bans debated, Tennessee schools share the pros and cons of restrictions

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Leaders at Hamblen County Schools, which adopted a policy this school year restricting device use, said students have been more focused in the classroom, and less distracted.

The bill could be a first step toward future limitation of technology use in the classroom. House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, has indicated he would like to see more limitations on instructional devices like Google Chromebooks, arguing that students may rush through tests to get computer time.

Vivian Jones covers state government and politics for The Tennessean. Reach her at vjones@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee House passes statewide school cell phone ban
Victim-serving agencies in Tennessee have been making public pleas for Gov. Bill Lee to include funding for them in the state budget. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

As federal funding for crime victims dwindled in recent years, 35 states across the nation took action to keep domestic violence shelters open, sexual assault centers operating and child abuse counselors available to serve the youngest of victims.

Tennessee was not one of these states.

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Now a looming budget crisis threatens the future viability of scores of Tennessee nonprofits that operate hotlines, protect seniors from elder abuse and work with prosecutors to secure evidence against perpetrators of human trafficking.

Collectively these organizations serve more than 95,000 victims in Tennessee each year, according to the states Office of Criminal Justice Programs.

Many states have dedicated victim service funding in their budgets. Tennessee doesnt, said Jennifer Escue, executive director of the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic & Sexual Violence.

Were really worried that programs across the state might have to close their doors. We know they would have to drastically reduce their services, Escue said. Rural organizations that rely most heavily on the federal funding have fewer private-sector resources to tap, and victims who depend on them will suffer the most, she said.

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Escue said victims are facing a double whammy in funding losses.

The Victims of Crime Act, or VOCA funding, which relies on the fees and fines collected in federal court, has seen a drastic drop in collections as prosecutors have made a concerted shift to accept more plea deals  a trend that preceded the current Trump Administration.

A short-term infusion of COVID-era funding helped bridge the gap, but those funds have now ended.

In 2018, the federal government distributed more than $67 million to Tennessees Office of Criminal Justice Programs, which in turn, gave grants to 128 agencies across the state to serve crime victims.

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By 2024, that number had dropped to $16 million.

Advocates are expecting to see up to 40% more in cuts come July from the already slashed federal crime victims fund, a steep loss that could spell the closure of small nonprofits in rural areas that rely on the funding for up to 80% of their budgets.

Last fall, victim-serving agency leaders met with Gov. Bill Lees staff to make their case for $25 million in recurring state funding needed to keep organizations doors open.

We received an indication from leadership of the General Assembly and the governors office that it was being considered, said Stephen Woerner, executive director of Tennessee Childrens Advocacy Centers.

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But that hope was short-lived. The governors budget, unveiled earlier this month, includes no funding for victim organizations.

We were disappointed, said Woerner.

Woerners organization operates 46 centers across the state that employ specialized counselors who work with children who have been abused, neglected or sexually assaulted.

The counselors conduct forensic interviews designed to prevent further trauma while eliciting information used in prosecuting perpetrators. The counseling continues for the victims and non-offending family members after the abuse has ended. The services are provided free of charge.

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Ultimately what were going to see happen is victims of crime dont get the care they need and an increase in cycles of generational crime, and its going to make law enforcements jobs much more difficult.

 Rachel Freeman, president and CEO, Sexual Assault Center

The organization received $5.5 million annually from the federal crime victims fund at its peak; this year, it received $2.1 million.

Child advocacy centers will close their doors if we cant shore this up, he said. If a child advocacy center closes, it means that a child is going to have to drive anywhere between an hour and two hours away. Thats step one.

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It means we have fewer interviews, because families are not able to do that, especially in rural Tennessee. The Department of Childrens Services is going to have a harder time (protecting children). And for district attorneys, fewer interviews means fewer prosecutions.

Woerners organization has joined more than 120 others in issuing dire warnings to Lee and members of the General Assembly that said without an infusion of $25 million in state funding, the consequences will be catastrophic.

Our shelters, crisis hotlines, and outreach programs are often the only lifelines available. Without stable funding, we face service cuts and closures, read a letter to lawmakers from the Tennessee Victim Service Providers Alliance, an umbrella group of victims serving organizations hastily formed to advocate for state funding.

The letter noted that many of the services they provide, including sexual assault exams and forensic interviews of children suspected of being abused, were mandated by the General Assembly but included no state funding to carry them out.

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Lee declined to say whether he will reconsider including funding for victim services in a supplemental budget to be introduced this spring.

The Tennessee Victim Service Providers Alliance represents key organizations that serve Tennesseans well, and we appreciate their partnership, a statement from Lees office said. Gov. Lee continues to work with the General Assembly on budget priorities, and the administrations budget amendment will be finalized in the coming months.

Rachel Freeman, president and CEO of the Sexual Assault Center in Nashville, said her organization is better positioned to raise private sector funds than smaller nonprofits in rural areas lacking resources to make up for funding cuts.

Nevertheless, she said, the ongoing cuts have proved challenging.

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About half of the nonprofit organizations $5 million budget comes from the federal VOCA funding. Freeman is preparing for cuts of between 10% and 40% this year.

Without state dollars, the funding loss will be disastrous for our state, she said.

Ultimately what were going to see happen is victims of crime dont get the care they need and an increase in cycles of generational crime, and its going to make law enforcements jobs much more difficult, she said. Thats a vicious cycle thats going to be more disastrous for our state.

The federal funding cuts will also be felt in local government, police departments and district attorneys offices that provide victim counseling and advocacy.

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The Metro Nashville Office of Family Safety lost two of its 12 counselor positions last year as federal funds contracted and expects to lose two more if no state funding is provided, said Diane Lance, director.

The Nashville governmental agency helps victims of interpersonal violence obtain orders of protection, create safety plans for themselves and their children and provides crisis counseling.

These therapies are for I have been raped, my mother was shot and killed by my dad. Were trying to get them through the immediate emergency, Lance said.

Without state funding, theyre not going to get the help they need. Already with domestic violence shelters, 40 percent of the time they can't take you in. And now theres so many funding cuts you wont have a crisis advocate. So good luck trying to stay safe for you and your children.

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The state board that regulates psychologists in Nevada will no longer require applicants from programs accredited by the American Psychological Association to pass a controversial exam deemed by critics to be racially biased and scrapped by its creators. But applicants who did not attend an accredited program will still have to take the controversial exam to be licensed.

Nevada, perpetually ranked one of the worst states in the nation for mental health services, was the only state that required applicants, other than those licensed by another state, to pass the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology Part 2 (EPPP-2). The EPPP-1, which is required to be passed by applicants in Nevada and other states, evaluates knowledge, while the EPPP-2 is designed to measure skills essential in the practice of psychology.

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While not requiring applicants from accredited programs to take the test is a great step, it also is not enough, Dr. Bernadette Hinojos, a psychologist licensed in California, said via email, adding most applicants from non-APA accredited programs are people of color or from lower socioeconomic backgrounds  the individuals critics say are most aggrieved by the test. This requirement is gatekeeping diverse and underserved populations of people from becoming psychologists.

Psychologists in America are not representative of the populations they serve.

In 2019, the American Psychological Association (APA) found about 83% of U.S. psychologists are white, down only slightly from 2009, when 85% were white. Hispanics make up 7% of psychologists, 4% are Asian, and 3% are Black.

To achieve racial parity with the state population they serve, 60% of practitioners would be white, 30% Latino, 11% Black, and 10% Asian, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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Hinojos told the board at its February meeting the EPPP-2 requirement exacerbates the underrepresentation of diverse psychologists, with psychologists of color and those identifying as LGBTQIA+ facing particularly steep hurdles.

Mental health professionals, she said, are experiencing heightened demand for services, especially among trans individuals seeking evaluations for gender-affirming surgeries. The barriers currently in place limit the number of providers able to meet these needs, thereby impacting the communities that rely on them the most.

Nevada has 673 licensed psychologists, according to the Nevada Board of Psychological Examiners (NBOP). Its unknown how many are employed full-time.

Racial diversity among clinicians is absolutely a barrier to treatment in urban areas such as Las Vegas and Reno, Dr. Christopher Shewbarran, president of the Nevada Psychological Association, told the Current in February.

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Typically, folks are going to be more likely to seek out a provider with whom they identify, he said.

Plans to expand the EPPP-2 to other states in 2026 were sidelined last year by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB), the national organization that developed the exam, after Texas regulators led the fight to eliminate the test, alleging it was racially biased and costly.

Last month, Dr Hao Song, Associate Executive Officer of Examination Services of the ASPPB, told the Nevada Board of Psychological Examiners (NBOP), which regulates psychologists,that completion of a program accredited by the APA may mitigate any connection between demographics, socioeconomic factors, and performance on the EPPP tests.

We did see that kind of, sometimes people from marginalized groups are more likely to be from non-accredited programs, Song said, but acknowledged the observations are more rumor. Its not based on the data.

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Applicants may disclose personal information when taking the test, but its not required, she said, resulting in a lack of clean data.

Dr. Robert Moering, a member of NBOP, suggested Nevada could eliminate the requirement for a skills-based exam. Moering observed that most states dont require one, adding psychologists have chosen to get their exams in other states simply because it was much easier to get that license without having to take the EPPP-2 or other types of skill-based exams.

Dr. Stephanie Woodard, also a board member, warned of unintended consequences and potential legal liability, should the state choose to not require a skills-based test. If that is the direction, in fact, that the board wants to go, I do think that we need some deliberation as a board on what the potential consequences of that could be.

At that point, the board went into closed session to hear from legal counsel Harry Ward of the Attorney Generals Office.

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The board subsequently voted unanimously to require the EPPP-2 only for applicants who did not attend APA-accredited programs and were not licensed in another state prior to Nov. 1, 2020.

The board also voted to research the feasibility and cost of updating the states competency exam, which was required before the EPPP-2, and included a few skills-based questions.

We really need to have an appreciation for what the cost will be for reinstating the old exam in the various possible formats that we discussed, Dr. Lorraine Benuto, the board president said, echoing other members concerns about cost.

The board is supported solely by licensing fees, noted Dr. Sheila Young, who warned updating the test could cost $30,000 to $50,000, and may be used only briefly until the ASPPB issues a hybrid test expected in 2027.

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Noting Nevada has been struggling to meet mental health demands and provide support in many areas, and that all counties in Nevada are experiencing a mental health shortage, the Nevada Psychological Association supports eliminating the EPPP-2 for providers who attended an accredited program.

Shewbarran added the NPA hopes the board reconsiders continuing to require the test of those who didnt attend an accredited program, noting there was a process for those psychologists to apply for licensure prior to the implementation of the EPPP-2.

Money grab?

Individual board members did not respond to the Currents inquiry about why they would require some applicants to pass a test that has been shelved by its creator.

EPPP-2 is unnecessary and invalid, Las Vegan Donald Cloud, who submitted public comment to the board, said via email to the Current, adding the APA Code of Ethics renders an outdated test as obsolete. It may be available to use but the results are of little value. EPPP-2 is not valid  it does not actually measure competence.

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Cloud says APA-approved programs prepare applicants to pass EPPP-1. He says non-accredited programs are not any less expensive. Sometimes they are more expensive. They just dont teach the foundations adequately which is why people have a hard time passing EPPP-1 if they did not go to an APA-approved program. EPPP-2 is unnecessary. Its just a money grab for ASPPB.

Hinojos, in public comment, said study materials for the EPPP-2 are notably limited with only two resources  a set of videos from a private psychologist costing $175, or a 3-month subscription for an online program priced at $329 or $399 for a six-month subscription.

With only Nevada maintaining a requirement for the EPPP-2, the likelihood of increased availability and accessibility of study materials appears minimal, Hinojos said, adding the lack of study materials can result in applicants taking the test multiple times.

This can result in thousands of dollars spent and lost, she said.

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The ASPPB did not respond to the Currents request for comment.

Hinojos noted the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT), an organization dedicated to reducing obstacles to licensing, has 42 participating states with reciprocal licensing agreements, including Nevada. PSYPACT does not require the EPPP-2.

However, Woodard of the NBOP added, PSYPACT participants must attend an APA-accredited program.

Correction: This story originally identified Dr. Bernadette Hinojos as a Las Vegas psychologist. She is licensed in California.
(NewsNation)  The Texas Department of Public Safety is employing cutting-edge technology to turn the tide on border-smuggling operations: drones.

NewsNation exclusively joined DPS officials on the Lone Star States border in the small town of Roma, Texas. Separated from Mexico by the Rio Grande, the area is a hotbed for cartels looking to move people or drugs across the border.

Texas state trooper Sgt. Guadalupe Casarez was one of the officials using drones to monitor potential smuggling activity along the river.

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From Roma, Casarez said he can see cartel scouts patrolling the border on foot, in vehicles and in the air  using their own drones to spot Border Patrol agents and troopers  as they look for landing points for the small rafts carrying migrants into the United States.

Elite US border unit trains daily to pursue dangerous intruders

One cartel guide had no idea that Casarezs eye in the sky could see his every move. He brought two migrants from the bushes and made a run into a residential neighborhood.

Its an overall operation for them on their side, Casarez said, explaining the process and planning needed to get people into the U.S. without detection.

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The migrants believed they had made it into the U.S. undetected by authorities, and the smuggler thought his job was finished.

But Texas troopers operating the drones had already called back to Border Patrol agents patrolling nearby  and the pursuit was on. Border patrol agents rushed to the scene and arrested a female migrant.

Agents then quickly jumped into the bushes, attempting to chase down the cartel guide and a male migrant who were making a run for it.

The guide and the male migrant could be seen jumping into a raft, where another cartel scout was waiting to paddle them back to Mexico.

Texas troopers, US Border Patrol team up to squash smuggling

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Drones like the ones used in this operation are equipped with heat sensors and play a crucial role in border security, Casarez said.

Troopers also place game cameras in strategic areas to catch smugglers, using motion alerts to pinpoint where they need to deploy. Cartel scouts have taken to stealing the surveillance cameras and returning to Mexico before law enforcement can arrive.

Texas DPS partners with U.S. Border Patrol agents and members of the Texas National Guard to try and track migrants that immigration officials characterize as gotaways.

In most cases, the Texas DPS works to determine if it can file state charges against those they encounter and charge them with smuggling people across the border. In other cases, U.S. Border Patrol officials file federal charges for human smuggling.

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The agencies also work together to stop the flow of illegal drugs being moved across the U.S.-Mexico border.

NewsNations Jeff Arnold contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
Catholic Charities Fort Worth, a nonprofit organization that serves as Texas refugee resettlement office, has sued the Trump administration, claiming the federal government has withheld more than $36 million in grants, leading its partners to lay off workers and close some offices.

The nonprofit has been in charge of the states refugee resettlement programs since 2017. The state dropped out of the program in 2016, leaving a network of organizations to help refugees acclimate to Texas.

The lawsuit, filed on Monday in federal district court in Washington, D.C., names the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. The charity claims 750 people have been laid off or furloughed at its partner organizations since the Department of Health and Human Services froze the funds earlier this year.

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These funds, mandated by law for organizations contracted by the federal government to care for these individuals and families, are crucial for providing essential services to those fleeing persecution in their home countries, said a statement by both Catholic Charities CEO Michael Iglio and Jeff Demers, state refugee coordinator of the Texas Office for Refugees.

The Department of Health and Human Services did not respond to The Texas Tribune's email request for comment on the lawsuit.

According to the lawsuit, Catholic Charities Fort Worth has tried to access the funds more than 14 times since Jan. 29 without success. Catholic Charities Fort Worth says in its lawsuit that the federal governments unlawful behavior defies the Constitution and has caused real-world harm to the 100,000 people living in Texas who depend on the charity.

The organization also faces irreparable damage to its reputation, to its ability to work with the community, and to its relationship with its subrecipients and with the federally-documented and lawfully-admitted individuals and families it serves, the lawsuit says.

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Through an executive order, the Trump administration paused the federal governments refugee program. However, a federal judge, ruling in a different lawsuit, ordered the Trump administration to restore federal funding for grants and other programs it had abruptly frozen. Since then, other organizations have received federal funds, according to Catholic Charities Fort Worths lawsuit.

Disclosure: Catholic Charities Fort Worth has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

We cant wait to welcome you to the 15th annual Texas Tribune Festival, Texas breakout ideas and politics event happening Nov. 1315 in downtown Austin. Step inside the conversations shaping the future of education, the economy, health care, energy, technology, public safety, culture, the arts and so much more.

Hear from our CEO, Sonal Shah, on TribFest 2025.

TribFest 2025 is presented by JPMorganChase.
This story has been updated with additional information

A lawsuit filed on Monday by Texass refugee services coordinating agency alleges that the federal government has unlawfully deprived the states service providers of more than $36 million in reimbursements since late January.

Catholic Charities Fort Worth, the parent organization for the Texas Office for Refugees, sued the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., alleging that reimbursements to CCFW have not resumed since the Trump administration rescinded a memo freezing all federal grant payments in late January.

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[M]any entities have received their federal funding in the weeks since the attempted funding freeze, the complaint reads. CCFW has not been able to draw down any fundsand has not received any indication why its funds remain frozen.

That funding covers the cost of services like workforce development, cash assistance, case management, and English classes for approximately 100,000 authorized immigrants across the state.

Recently: Austin refugee organizations panicking amid prolonged halt in federal funding

Neither the health department nor the Administration for Children and Families, the health department division that oversees the reimbursement-authorizing Office of Refugee Resettlement, immediately responded to a request for comment from the American-Statesman.

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CCFWs lawsuit claims that the Trump administration has ignored its own internal directives to resume federal grant payments, as well two federal court orders that mandated the release of funds .

These funds, mandated by law for organizations contracted by the federal government to care for these individuals and families, are crucial for providing essential services to those fleeing persecution in their home countries, CCFW CEO Michael Iglio and Jeff Demers, state refugee coordinator for the Texas Office of Refugees, said in a written statement to the Statesman. Despite four attempts in January to secure paymentfollowed by ten additional requests over the next four weeksHHS has unlawfully continued withholding the financial support allocated under existing grant agreements.

Along with running its own services, Demerss refugee office has been in charge of delivering federal reimbursements to the states refugee service providers since 2017 when Texas Republican leaders chose to close the states refugee resettlement agency. In Austin, the prolonged funding halt has led providers to cease services and furlough staff, the Statesman reported last week.

The executive directors of two of those local service providers, along with the associate director of a service provider in Dallas, told the American-Statesman that the refugee office told them that Texas is the only state where providers have not started receiving reimbursements again. The office declined to comment on the claim and to make Demers available for an interview.

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Simone Talma Flowers, executive director of Interfaith Action of Central Texas, said she doesnt know why Texas might be the lone state where funding hasnt started to flow again.

After going three months without reimbursements totaling $250,000, she said her organization is facing the prospect of furloughs or layoffs of 25 employees and the cancellation of English classes with some 650 refugee students currently enrolled.

Whoever is controlling the portal, Talma Flowers said, Turn back on the portal so we can serve people that need the services.

Mondays lawsuit suggests that the lack of payments has led to staff furloughs or layoffs at 24 of the 29 organizations in Texas that receive federal reimbursements for providing refugee support services.

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That number includes 14 furloughs at the Austin-based Global Impact Initiative, which ceased offering cash assistance and workforce development to over 800 families on Feb. 3 after not having received reimbursement since January.

Texas received just under 11,000 refugees in 2024, with most coming from Afghanistan, Venezuela or the Democratic Republic of Congo. The U.S. government accepts refugees from the United Nations and non-governmental organizations after meticulous vetting. These immigrants, along with other Special visa holders and qualified asylum seekers  like authorized Cuban and Haitian arrivals  qualify for refugee services.

These services are separate from the refugee resettlement program, which provides 90 days of housing and other support services only offered to those brought in through the international refugee system.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas' refugee coordinator sues feds over prolonged funding pause
A few weeks after President Donald Trump ordered the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, GOP lawmakers are considering other name changes. But instead of a body of land, the Republican lieutenant governor of Texas wants to rename the cut of beef known as the New York Strip to the Texas Strip, in an apparent slight at liberals.

In a world filled with serious issues that we address every day at the Texas Capitol, this simple resolution will help better market Texas beef, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick wrote on X on Friday as the state faces its worst measles outbreak in three decades.

Patrick, who holds the second highest executive office in Texas, has made no mention of the measles outbreak on his X page. So far, one child has died.

Lt. governor highlighted Texass contributions to the beef industry (Getty Images)

But he did take the time to discuss the importance of renaming the New York Strip to better reflect Texass cattle industry.

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Liberal New York shouldnt get the credit for our hard-working ranchers, Patrick wrote. Just because a New York restaurant named Texas beef a New York Strip in the 19th century doesnt mean we need to keep doing that.

Texas produces the largest number of beef cattle in the U.S.

Yet the strip steak is colloquially known as a New York Strip because the New York City-based restaurant Delmonicos offered the short loin cut as its signature dish when it opened in 1827.

Patrick said that to correct this, the Texas Senate will file a resolution to officially change the name of the New York Strip to the Texas Strip, which would ask restaurants and grocery stores to change the name on menus.

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We want this to catch on across the country and around the globe, Patrick added.

Patrick insinuated the idea came after he met with the Texas Cattle Feeders and Cattle Raisers last week. He said multiple employees cited the New York Strip as their favorite cut of meat.

Factoid: Texas has about 12.2 million head of cattle, the most in America. I met with the Texas Cattle Feeders and Cattle Raisers this week.



Out of curiosity, I asked each of them their favorite cut of meat. A few said New York Strip. I asked why we didnt call it a Texas  Office of the Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (@LtGovTX) February 28, 2025

Meanwhile, people in West Texas are on alert amid a measles outbreak, where at least 146 people across nine counties have been infected with the highly contagious virus. Most of the infections are among people who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, according to reports.

At least 20 people have been hospitalized and one child, an unvaccinated school-aged child, has died.

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Measles were initially declared eliminated in the U.S. in the year 2000, thanks to the introduction and implementation of the measles vaccine, which is effective and safe.

But declining vaccination rates have contributed to breakouts in areas of the country.

Recently appointed Secretary of Health and Human Services RFK Jr., who has espoused anti-vaccine beliefs, finally urged people to get their measles jab in an op-ed for Fox News on Sunday. He had previously downplayed the severity of the outbreak
AUSTIN (Nexstar)  The Senate State Affairs Committee began its discussion on a bill that would ban all forms of THC, the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana on Monday.

Texas Senate Bill 3 was named one of Lt. Gov. Dan Patricks priority bills for this session in January and aims to address concerns that unregulated THC products are being sold across the state.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick lists Senate priority bills for the 2025 legislative session

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This comes after Texas lawmakers legalized the commercialization of hemp, including products with THC levels under 0.3%, in Texas in 2019. But Patrick contends that retailers have abused the law by using loopholes to market products with unsafe levels of THC, especially to minors.

Senators echoed that sentiment in Mondays meeting.

Weve tried to let the industry regulate itself theyve proved they cant, they dont want to and wont. Its time to fix it, said Sen. Charles Perry, R- Lubbock, in Mondays meeting. Perry, the author of SB 3, previously carried the 2019 agricultural bill and has expressed concern over the growth in hemp dispensaries that have popped up since the passing of the previous bill.

According to Dr. Tim Stevenson, the deputy commissioner for Consumer Protection for the Department of State Health Services, there are currently 740 licensed manufacturers of THC and 5,043 retail registrants with more than 8,000 locations throughout the state.

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Critics of the current hemp market point to a lack of testing requirements, age restrictions, and regulations, arguing that the variety of products  from smokable vapes to oils to gummies and baked goods  has posed health risks, marketed to minors and disrupted access for those who need medical cannabis.

Texas Senate to pursue ban on THC products next year, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick says

This bill aims to ease those concerns by prohibiting the sale of consumable hemp products to minors under 21. It also requires all legal consumable hemp products to be properly labeled and placed in tamper-evident, child-resistant and resealable packaging. Additionally, the bill creates new criminal offenses to prevent the sale of illegal products in Texas.

Currently, the difference in the legal and illegal products lies in the plants from which they come. Hemp and marijuana plants are both cannabis plants but, marijuana plants have high levels of THC, while hemp contains low amounts of the ingredient.

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Mondays meeting included testimony from Steve Dye, the police chief in Allen, who also leads the Texas Police Chiefs Associations efforts regarding consumable hemp products. During his testimony, he provided handouts documenting a unified letter of support for SB 3 from the Texas Police Chiefs Association, the Sheriffs Association, the Texas School District Police Chiefs Association, The Voice of Texas Law Enforcement (TMPA) and the Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas (CLEAT). Dye added SB 3 could do more to help law enforcement.

We need your help in protecting our communities and urge you to support Senate Bill 3. However, we believe more elements need to be added to this bill to ensure that its both enforceable and prosecutable.

They also heard testimony from Justin Arsenault, a sergeant in the narcotics division of Allen PD, Brian Hawthorne, the Sheriff of Chambers County, and Dr. Lindy McGhee, a pediatrician in Houston. All were in support of the bill and provided evidence from their respective backgrounds as to why this measure is necessary.

Many who oppose the bill are in favor of increased regulation but believe a ban would go too far, hurting both consumers and businesses.

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After hearing from the panel, the committee decided to leave SB 3 pending until public testimony later on Monday afternoon. The bill must get through committee, pass through the Senate and the House before it heads to Gov. Greg Abbotts desk to be signed into law.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
After alleged "valid findings" of noncompliance with Texas Senate Bill 17  a 2023 law that bars diversity, equity and inclusion offices, hiring and programs at institutions of higher education  Sens. Brandon Creighton and Paul Bettencourt put university governing boards on notice that any requests for state funding above levels from the previous biennium will be denied until the systems prove they're following the "letter and spirit" of the law.

The senators' letter, sent Wednesday to Texas public universities' boards of regents, comes after alumni and higher education stakeholders have advocated for the Legislature to restore more than $400 million in institutional enhancement funds that universities use to support faculty, new programs and student supports that are not included in the proposed budget for the coming biennium  including $54 million at Texas A&M University and $38 million at the University of Texas.

Speakers and spectators attend a Texas Senate Finance Committee hearing for public higher education institutions Feb. 6.

Texas university systems are required to submit reports asserting their institutions are in full compliance with SB 17 to access state funds, and system chancellors in May testified before the Senate Higher Education subcommittee during an interim hearing about how they have complied. But Creighton, R-Conroe, who chairs the Senate K-16 Education Committee, and Bettencourt, R-Houston, who chairs the Senate Higher Education subcommittee, allege in their letter that some institutions, particularly health-related schools, have not complied sufficiently.

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"Though governing boards did comply with this provision of the law, the reports were not found to be satisfactory," the letter states. "As legislators begin budget deliberations, we expect you to provide clear and indisputable evidence that DEI programming has been fully eliminated from the operations of all your member institutions."

More: One year under SB 17: A timeline of how Texas' anti-DEI law swept through UT, the state

The state auditor's office, which surveyed the Texas A&M System, in a report this month said it found that Texas A&M University Central Texas had a contract that did not comply with SB 17, but it was otherwise compliant. It said the school would address the contract promptly. And of five community colleges surveyed, one had training that was noncompliant with SB 17, the report said.

"The audit shows that we are in compliance with SB 17 almost in all," said Tim Eaton, a TAMU System spokesperson, crediting the system's staff who has worked hard to ensure it follows the law. "It looks like we got an A as far as I can tell."

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Bettencourt's and Creighton's offices declined to name specific violations they are alleging, and none were identified in their letter, though the document states there are "numerous instances" for which they believe a DEI office has been renamed or reauthorized "under the guise of a different name." In response, the letter states, no requests for increases in state higher education funding will be approved until governing boards prove their institutions' compliance.

Other university systems, including the UT System, have not yet been audited by the state.

"SB 17 is very clear. No DEI offices," said Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston. "Don't create a new three-letter acronym."

State officials threatening to withhold money isn't new. Last session, lawmakers leveraged the budget to pass conservative higher education priorities, making millions in extra funding contingent on the passing of SB 17 and SB 18, which limits tenure at public universities. Last year, a letter from Creighton similarly threatened financial ramifications for noncompliance, and, shortly afterward, the University of Texas terminated 49 former-DEI staff members who had been reassigned to new positions to comply with the law. UT also cut adapted student support offices and services that were compliant with SB 17, leaving staff and students devastated and complaining that the school was overcomplying for political ends.

In Wednesday's letter, Creighton repeated his call for institutions to comply with "the letter and spirit of the law" or face funding ramifications. The "spirit" refers to ensuring there are no DEI offices or programs that are just being renamed at the institutions, Bettencourt said in a phone interview Friday.

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"SB 17 is very clear. No DEI offices," Bettencourt said. "Don't create a new three-letter acronym."

SB 17  which defines DEI as the promotion of the preferential treatment of certain groups or "special benefit" based on race, sexuality or gender  exempts courses, research, student groups and recruitment from limitations prescribed in the law, but Creighton and other lawmakers have applauded the top-down elimination of LGBTQ+ and diverse but "low-producing" minors at Texas A&M University and mentions of diversity in coursework at the University of North Texas as aligning with SB 17's intent.

More: Senate Texas Higher Education Interim Report says regents should get rid of DEI 'culture'

Lawmakers' pressure campaign on universities this year follows a national debate over what DEI means and how marginalized communities will be affected by expansions of or overcompliance with laws like SB 17. In the current Texas legislative session, numerous bills have been filed to bar required university courses that relate to diversity or to cut low-producing programs.

Jay Hartzell, the University of Texas' departing president, defends UT's efforts during the Feb. 6 Senate Finance Committee hearing on public higher education institutions.

During a Feb. 6 Senate Finance Committee hearing, Creighton asked UT's former president, Jay Hartzell, if the school's 'flags," or course requirements, that include cultural diversity and global culture, would be eliminated, to which Hartzell replied that the university was still reviewing the courses.

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Bettencourt said that Creighton's office has received numerous complaints of perceived noncompliance with SB 17 among health institutions. He said he had a positive conversation with Texas Tech University's chancellor and hopes to have "the same conversations with everyone else."

"Texas has been leading on this effort even before the Trump administration's" orders, Bettencourt said. "We want the institutions to focus on teaching, research and academic resources."

"It's important this issue be cleared up once and for all," he added.

More: Will Trump push Texas-style education to a national scale? Here's what experts say.

Sen. Brandon Creighton, shown at left speaking to Sen. Charles Schwertner, has demanded that universities comply with "the letter and spirit of the law" banning diversity offices and programs.

Texas was the second state in the nation to pass an anti-DEI law in 2023. With President Donald Trump's federal push to end DEI initiatives in the private sector, the senators' said "it is imperative" Texas remains a leader in this effort to prevent loss of federal funding in the future.

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Bettencourt said once institutions fully prove their compliance with SB 17, he would be "very happy" to consider the return of funds and look at the exceptional item requests.

"As legislators begin budget deliberations, we expect you to provide clear and indisputable evidence that DEI programming has been fully eliminated from the operations of all your member institutions," the senators' letter states. "Please be prepared to demonstrate full compliance with SB 17 upon request."

This story has been updated to add video.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas senators threaten university funding freeze until they ban DEI
Behind the spotlight of police brutality and justice rallies in 2020, a very sinister crime occurred claiming the life of a 70-year-old woman. The womans granddaughter was charged with her killing and now, the judge has delivered a verdict determining her fate.

Lets rewind. Back in February of 2020, police said they arrived at a chaotic scene when they responded to a home on the 8500 block of Spotted Deer in San Antonio. Police said Octavian Jones was home getting ready for work when his sister, Tamera Laws, walked in and apologized for something shed done, per the San Antonio Express-News. Jones then walked into their grandmothers room and found her, Dorris Ruth Novella, dead on the floor.

Police reports say Novellas face was bloodied and nearly unrecognizable. Following the autopsy from the medical examiner, police determined Laws choked, stabbed, and repeatedly struck Novella with a hammer resulting in her death, per KSATs report.

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After being charged with Novellas murder, Laws insisted she was under mental delusion during the time of the killing. She testified during trial that she became addicted to methamphetamine while working as an escort which resulted in her hearing voices, per News4A.

I would hear voices in my head telling me that people were trying to kill me. I was like, I know my grandmas trying to kill me. I was afraid that my grandma was going to do witchcraft on me, she said on the stand.

Additionally, she claimed during trial that a phone call with her father moments before the killing prompted her to commit the act because he told her she was going to end up chopped up and sent to him in a box by Monday. She then testified that during the incident, she felt the energy on her and believed she had to beat it out of her grandmother.

A few medical experts also testified, saying Laws exhibited evidence of a degrading mental state, per the reports. However, prosecutors said she was never reported to have any symptoms while in jail.

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There were even more suspicious findings that contradicted Laws insanity argument. Experts testified during her trial to finding a strong odor of Pine-Sol coming from the room where Novella was found, per the San Antonio Express-News. They also testified to finding Laws DNA on a cleaner bottle found in the room. Prosecutors argued Laws was well aware of what she did, using the expert testimonies to suggest she tried to conceal the crime scene, per the reports.

Laws waived her right to a jury trial leaving her fate up to a judge. Friday, Feb. 28, the Bexar County judge found her guilty of murder, per KSAT. Her sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

Laws faces life in prison.

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BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand acted in accordance with human rights when it sent 40 Uyghurs back to China last week, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra told reporters on Monday.

"We actually did everything correctly on human rights," she said.

(Reporting Chayut Setboonsarng; Editing by John mair)
Vice President J.D. Vance appears to have masterminded a whole blowup between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Donald Trump: Zelenskyy had been invited to the Oval Office for a press conference related to the signing of a rare earth minerals deal between Ukraine and the United States, through which America could maybe begin to recoup some of its funding of Ukraine's defense. Now, the deal has fallen apart, and relations look mighty fragile. Transcript and clips below, so you can make up your own mind. (Video of full meeting here.)

Vance: "For four years, the United States of America, we had a president who stood up at press conferences and talked tough about Vladimir Putin, and then Putin invaded Ukraine and destroyed a significant chunk of the country. The path to peace and the path to prosperity is, maybe, engaging in diplomacy. We tried the pathway of Joe Biden, of thumping our chest and pretending that the president of the United States' words mattered more than the president of the United States' actions. What makes America a good country is America engaging in diplomacy. That's what President Trump is doing."

Zelenskyy: "Can I ask you?"

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Vance: "Sure. Yeah."

Zelenskyy: "OK. So he [Putin] occupied it, our parts, big parts of Ukraine, parts of east and Crimea. So he occupied it in 2014. So during a lot of yearsI'm not speaking about just Biden, but those times was [Barack] Obama, then President Obama, then President Trump, then President Biden, now President Trump. And God bless, now, President Trump will stop him. But during 2014, nobody stopped him. He just occupied and took. He killed people. You know what the"

Trump: "2015?"

Zelenskyy: "2014."

Trump: "Oh, 2014? I was not here."

Vance: "That's exactly right."

Zelenskyy: "Yes, but during 2014 till 2022, the situation is the same, that people have been dying on the contact line. Nobody stopped him. You know that we had conversations with him, a lot of conversations, my bilateral conversation. And we signed with him, me, like, you, president, in 2019, I signed with him the deal. I signed with him, [French President Emmanuel] Macron and [former German Chancellor Angela] Merkel. We signed ceasefire. Ceasefire. All of them told me that he will never go.But after that, he broke the ceasefire, he killed our people, and he didn't exchange prisoners. We signed the exchange of prisoners. But he didn't do it. What kind of diplomacy, J.D., you are speaking about? What do you mean?"

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Vance: "I'm talking about the kind of diplomacy that's going to end the destruction of your country. Mr. President, with respect, I think it's disrespectful for you to come into the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media. Right now, you guys are going around and forcing conscripts to the front lines because you have manpower problems. You should be thanking the president for trying to bring an end to this conflict."

(Video of the above here.)

Then a little bit later:

Zelenskyy: "First of all, during the war, everybody has problems, even you. But you have nice ocean and don't feel now. But you will feel it in the future. God bless"

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Trump: "You don't know that. You don't know that. Don't tell us what we're going to feel. We're trying to solve a problem. Don't tell us what we're going to feel."

Zelenskyy: "I'm not telling you. I am answering on these questions."

Trump: "Because you're in no position to dictate that."

Vance: "That's exactly what you're doing."

Trump: "You are in no position to dictate what we're going to feel. We're going to feel very good."

Zelenskyy: "You will feel influenced."

Trump: "We are going to feel very good and very strong."

Trump: "You're not in a good position. You don't have the cards right now. With us, you start having cards."

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Zelenskyy: "I'm not playing cards. I'm very serious, Mr. President. I'm very serious."

Trump: "You're playing cards. You're gambling with the lives of millions of people. You're gambling with World War III."

Zelenskyy: "What are you speaking about?"

Trump: "You're gambling with World War III. And what you're doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country that's backed you far more than a lot of people said they should have."

Vance: "Have you said thank you once?"

Zelenskyy: "A lot of times. Even today."

Vance: "No, in this entire meeting. You went to Pennsylvania and campaigned for the opposition in October."

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Zelenskyy: "No."

Vance: "Offer some words of appreciation for the United States of America and the president who's trying to save your country."

Zelenskyy: "Please. You think that if you will speak very loudly about the war, you can"

Trump: "He's not speaking loudly. He's not speaking loudly. Your country is in big trouble."

Zelenskyy: "Can I answer"

Trump: "No, no. You've done a lot of talking. Your country is in big trouble."

Zelenskyy: "I know. I know."

Trump: "You're not winning. You're not winning this. You have a damn good chance of coming out OK because of us."

Reactions around the web: "What unfolded between Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky and President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance turned into a political Rorschach test," writes Eli Lake for The Free Press. "For Trump's base, the 50-minute exchange was proof positive of America First foreign policyan ungrateful freeloader gets upbraided by the populist tribune. For Americans who still cling to the now unfashionable notion that the international system should be ruled by rules and not might, Friday's incident was a horror. From the perspective of Europe, it's the beginning of the end of the transatlantic alliance."

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On that note, "libertarians, progressives, and national conservatives who've been pining for a de-Americanization of European military security are experiencing their most newsworthy week on that front in at least three decades," wrote Reason's Matt Welch on Friday, before the verbal fisticuffs. "The Trump administration's ongoing negotiations and public messaging around a potential Russia-Ukraine peace deal, along with the weekend electoral victory of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU), have led to the bluntest talk since April 1993 about a future without Washington's mutual defense commitments to the easternmost members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)." Now, this assessment looks even more correct; something is about to change, and the souring of relations between Trump and Zelenskyywhich seemed awfully architected by Vancelends credence to the idea that Ukraine will need to rely on someone other than the U.S.

Both French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently announced increases in defense spending; "I am very curious to see how we are heading toward the NATO summit at the end of June," said German Chancellor-to-be Friedrich Merz recently, who also seems on board with more defense spending. "Whether we will still be talking about NATO in its current form or whether we will have to establish an independent European defense capability much more quickly." "The E.U. as a united political force no longer exists" is the line from Russian state media.

"The president's verbal assault on Mr. Zelensky was a stunning display of anger and resentment toward the leader of a country that has been invaded by a larger power intent on eliminating it as an independent state" is how The New York Times puts it. "No other president in memory has lashed out at a visiting foreign leader in the Oval Office on camera in such a vituperative way, not even at an adversary of the United States, much less a putative ally." I don't think the apoplectic mainstream media reaction is quite correct: Both Trump and Zelenskyy behaved poorly, not to mention Vance, who appears to have a future as a foreign policy pot-stirrer. That said, if you're Vance and you're trying to achieve the foreign policy objective of massively reducing or totally cutting American support for Ukrainian defense, this would be one way to go about it.

Now, in another escalation, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has asked the U.S. Cyber Command to halt offensive operations toward Russia.

Scenes from New York: New York Dolls frontman David Johansen, who was huge in the '70s punk scene (and majorly influenced Morrissey), died over the weekend at his home on Staten Island.

QUICK HITS

Watch the latest Just Asking Questions ft. Matt Taibbi:

Here's him breaking down the 60 Minutes segment on German hate speech laws:

The movie Anora, directed by Sean Baker, won an Academy Award for best original screenplay, as well as best picture (and best actress for Mikey Madison, who plays Ani). In his speech, Baker thanked his cast, the crew, and "the sex worker community"a frequent fascination of his, explored in the aforementioned as well as his former works (Tangerine, The Florida Project). "They have shared their stories, their life experience with me over the years," he said. "They have my deepest respect."

Dems try to pivot to gun shows and tailgates:

New @playbookdc: Last month, a group of moderate Democratic consultants, campaign staffers, elected officials & party leaders gathered in Loudoun County, Virginia, for a retreat where they plotted their party's comeback. We got their takeaways. pic.twitter.com/lA1nVshriG  Adam Wren (@adamwren) March 2, 2025

"President Donald Trump is on the verge of slapping new tariffs on Canada and Mexico while doubling a levy on China, moves that would dramatically expand his push to revive domestic manufacturing, tap new revenues and rebalance ties with the biggest US trading partners," reports Bloomberg. "The long-promised tariffs scheduled to take effect Tuesday would easily be among the most sweeping of the Trump era, applying to roughly $1.5 trillion in annual imports. They would put a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico, except Canadian energy, which would face a 10% rate. He has also said he'll double a tariff on China to 20%."

Tulsi Gabbard, the new director of national intelligence, "got the first big thing right," writes Andrew McCarthy in National Review: "protecting our technology industry and all Americans from the Luddite demands of Britain's Labour government."

Last week, the U.S. experienced its first measles death in a decade, amid a West Texas outbreak that has made 140 people sick so far (and spilled over into New Mexico). There are also three confirmed cases in Bergen County, New Jersey, so far, as well as two in New York City; a handful of other states are experiencing their own outbreaks as well.

The post Say Thank You appeared first on Reason.com.
The Pennsylvania Judicial Center in Harrisburg. (Capital-Star file)

Ten years ago, Pennsylvania voters elected three new state Supreme Court justices in a historic election.

It was the first time in the courts 311-year history three seats were in the hands of voters at the same time and resulted Democrats holding a 5-2 majority on the states highest court.

This year, the three winners of the 2015 election, Justices Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty and David Wecht, are running to keep their seats in Yes or No retention elections. Although judges are expected to be nonpartisan, if any two or all three are ousted, it would open a door to change the courts composition for the next decade, and beyond.

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That could determine which party has an advantage in Congress and the state legislature through redistricting and direct the outcome of cases that involve reproductive rights, voting rights and state policies such as marijuana legalization.

With several consequential cases almost certain to come before the court in coming years, Republicans and Democrats appear now to be gearing up for an expensive campaign in the type of election that usually generates little buzz. The end results may pose a threat to the publics perceptions of judicial independence and nonpartisanship, court watchers said.

What could happen in these retention elections is a different animal, said public affairs expert Larry Ceisler, who said the focus on this years retention elections is unprecedented.

A state-focused Republican campaign organization told donors last month it is committed to making seven-figure investments in the Pennsylvania retention election and in Wisconsin, where a 4-3 liberal majority hangs on the outcome of this years election.

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If it gets politicized and tied to national politics it becomes just one more example of people voting along party lines and being involved in tribal politics.

 Lauren Cristella, the Committee of Seventy

The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee said last week that it has added the Pennsylvania and Wisconsin supreme court elections to its map of targeted races for 2023.

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Both noted the courts role in the two swing states in determining state legislative and congressional districts, which will be redrawn after the 2030 Census. The DLCC also said the Pennsylvania court could play a role in determining voting rights and touted its role in electing Justice Daniel McCaffery in 2023.

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Spending in judicial elections has been on the rise across the country for years. The 2015 Supreme Court race in the commonwealth, which began with 12 Republican candidates and six Democrats in the primaries, was the most expensive in United States history at the time, with more than $16 million in spending.

The 2023 race, which focused on the importance of the state Supreme Court in protecting Pennsylvania abortion rights, destroyed the previous Pennsylvania record with more than $22 million spent. But that same year, candidates and political organizations set a new record by spending $51 million on a single Wisconsin Supreme Court seat.

This years high court election in the Badger State could be even more expensive, with candidates and independent groups spending more than $18 million ahead of the April 1 election. Elon Musk has spent more than $1 million so far while a political organization he contributed to in the past has spent $1.6 million, according to the Associated Press, while several Democratic mega donors have given millions to state Democrats.

What are retention elections?

In Pennsylvania, most judges serve 10-year terms. Candidates for judicial office only run against opponents in elections for vacant seats. After the first and subsequent terms, judges must face voters who are asked whether they should be retained for another term.

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Pennsylvania began the election and retention process for judges in 1968, when voters approved the states current constitution. It was intended to provide a bulwark against partisan politics in the courts, which had been a factor since the commonwealth abandoned gubernatorial appointments in favor of judicial elections in 1850.

The whole theory behind retention elections was that they would be non-partisan. They would balance out the partisanship of judicial elections, said Debbie Gross, executive director of Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts, a nonpartisan group that promotes judicial independence and advocates for choosing judges by a merit selection process.

Its rare for judges not to be retained. Most easily win their retention elections by two-thirds margins and only one appellate court judge has lost a retention election.

Supreme Court Justice Russell Nigro was ousted in 2005 when he lost his retention bid by two percentage points while his colleague, Justice Sandra Shultz Newman, won retention by a smaller than usual, but comfortable eight points.

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Nigro and Newman were targeted because they were up for retention in the same year that the legislature approved a pay raise for itself and state judges in a dead-of-the-night vote that spawned public outrage and a campaign to oust those who had supported it.

The nature of the judiciary and the timing of retention elections also contribute to a lack of voter interest and low turnout, Lauren Cristella, president and CEO of the nonpartisan good government group Committee of Seventy, said.

Judicial elections are held in the same cycle as elections for local offices, such as mayors and district attorneys, when turnout is generally lower than in presidential or gubernatorial elections. In heavily partisan areas, those races are often decided in primary elections, further driving down turnout in the November election, Cristella said.

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The courts are also the most obscure of the three branches of government, with voters possessing limited understanding of what the various courts do and who the judges are.

I would almost guarantee you these people have next to zero name recognition, Cristella said.

The code of conduct judges must follow specifically prohibits them from speaking to voters about issues that might come before them on the bench. That limits the amount of information that voters can use to make their decisions, Gross said.

Although the courts do have a crucial importance in the lives of everyday Pennsylvanians, they might be excused for not following their work closely, said Joel Ready, a Reading attorney who worked as a clerk in the Virginia Supreme Court and edited a blog on the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

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A lot of the issues the judges decide, although extremely important, are boring, Ready said.

Many of the state Supreme Courts most pivotal recent decisions have involved interpretations of the Pennsylvania Constitution and recognizing fundamental rights it guarantees, he said.

In 2018, the court gave life, Ready said, to the free and fair elections clause of the state constitution when it found the states 2011 congressional map was unconstitutional and substituted its own. That year, Pennsylvania Democrats won five congressional districts and eliminated the Republicans 13-5 advantage in the commonwealths delegation.

It has also interpreted the state charter to allow private citizens to sue to enforce their constitutional rights to environmental integrity and educational equality. The latter led to the historic Commonwealth Court trial and 2023 ruling the states education funding system was constitutionally unfair.

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And state high courts are likely to have increased significance in determining the rights of individuals as the U.S. Supreme Court returns important areas of the law to the states, as it did when it overturned Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established the national right to abortion.

Whether you think theyre making the right decisions or not is extremely important to voters, Ready said, adding that judicial campaigns can quickly reduce nuanced legal issues to broad policy goals that obscure the individual qualifications of judges.

Were talking about the development of very complex legal doctrines so it becomes a question of which party do I trust with that? Ready said.

Communicating whats at stake in a compelling way is expensive, Cristella said.

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Besides the parties pleas to donors for support in targeting the retention elections, there are indications that both sides are getting ready to mount extensive and expensive campaigns.

On both sides of the aisle in the political chattering class we are hearing meetings getting started and numbers being thrown around, she said.

On one hand, more attention on judicial elections means voters have more information about their choices, Cristella said. But it also has the potential to increase political polarization and decrease trust in the courts.

If it gets politicized and tied to national politics it becomes just one more example of people voting along party lines and being involved in tribal politics, Cristella said.

By eliminating the need to run against opponents, retention elections were intended to allow judges to lean into their independence without concern about following party lines to stay on the bench. That all changes if retention elections become high-dollar political campaigns, Cristella said.

Thats why the Committee of Seventy has joined Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts in advocating to remove voters from directly electing judges in favor of a merit selection process, Cristella said. Under that approach judges would be chosen by an independent, bipartisan commission composed of lawyers and non-lawyers from diverse occupational, racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Gross said although bills proposing a merit selection system have been introduced over the past few decades, none have come close to becoming law. The most recent effort was a bill that would have ended statewide judicial elections by creating judicial districts for the state Superior, Commonwealth and Supreme courts. It was widely panned as an attempt to gerrymander the courts, Gross said.

If there is a multimillion dollar No campaign, these judges are going to have to lean on and coordinate with the people that want to keep them in, Cristella said. It undermines the publics trust and the rule of law if people think judges are in it for one team or the other.
TikTok is to be investigated by the data watchdog over its use of childrens data and whether its algorithms are serving up inappropriate or harmful content.

The Chinese-owned platform is among three social media sites to be investigated by the Information Commissioners Office (ICO). The other two are the forum site Reddit and the image-sharing platform Imgur.

The ICO will investigate how TikTok uses the personal information of 13- to 17-year-olds to deliver content recommendations to them, and also examine Reddit and Imgurs use of age assurance measures, such as how they estimate or verify a childs age, which can then be used to tailor their experience on the platform.

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Earlier this year TikTok was made subject to a ban in the US, suspended for 45 days by Donald Trump, due to concerns that the Chinese government could access data gathered by the app, which is owned by the Chinese social media and games company ByteDance.

In January, Peter Kyle, the technology minister, said: I am genuinely concerned about the ownership model of TikTok. Im genuinely concerned about their use of data, linked to the ownership model.

Elements designed to keep children safe

The ICO introduced a childrens code for online privacy in 2021, which requires companies to take steps to protect childrens personal information online.

John Edwards, the information commissioner, said the regulator expected to find plenty of positive safety elements in place across the sites during its investigation, but wanted to ensure their processes were robust.

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Its what theyre collecting, its how they work, he said. I will expect to find that there will be many benign and positive uses of childrens data in their recommender systems. I would expect to find there will be elements that are designed to keep children safe and to make sure they only get appropriate things, and thats all for the good.

What I am concerned about is whether they are sufficiently robust to prevent children being exposed to harm, either from addictive practices on the device or the platform, or from content that they see, or from other unhealthy practices.

Not picking on TikTok

The ICO said its investigations would look into whether there had been any infringements of data protection legislation. If any evidence of potential breaches is found, the regulator said it would put it to the platforms and obtain their representations before reaching a conclusion.

Mr Edwards said the regulator was not picking on TikTok by making it the subject of an investigation on a topic common across social media, and hoped to understand more about the wider social media landscape through the investigation.

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The ICO fined TikTok 12.7 million in 2023 for a series of breaches of data protection law, including failing to use childrens personal data lawfully.

The ICO estimated that TikTok allowed up to 1.4 million UK children under 13 to use its platform in 2020, despite its own rules not allowing children that age to create an account.

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Meals-on-Wheels

volunteer needed at Robinwood Senior Apartments

Senior Services needs a volunteer to help coordinate meal deliveries from our Robinwood Senior Apartments satellite site Monday through Friday between 10 and 11 a.m. There is no driving associated with this volunteer opportunity.

For more information, visit seniorservicesinc.org or contact Tyler Smith at 336-721-6961 or tsmith@seniorservicesinc.org.

Learn chess, cards at the Shepherds Center

Mondays and Thursdays at 1:30pm  The Shepherds Center of Greater Winston-Salem

Chess and Cards

If you are interested in learning basic chess or to play a casual game of chess please contact Paul Sluder at paulslud@yahoo.com. If you would like to have fun and learn cards lile Backally or Rummy please contact Vince Marra at VM984@aol.com. There is no cost.

Intergenerational theater acting class planned

Senior Services invites participants from ages 10 and up to learn the principles of acting, improvisation, and scene work. Join us, Wednesdays, Jan. 22March 5 from 45:30 p.m., taught by our friends at 40+ Stage Company. The class is free of charge but reservations are required. Contact Susan Lewis at 336-721-6954 or slewis@seniorservicesinc.org.

Learn powerful tools for caregivers

Are you a caregiver of an older adult? Would you like to reduce stress and become a stronger self-advocate? If so, the Powerful Tools for Caregivers series is for you. Sponsored by The Shepherds Center of Greater Winston-Salem and Oak Street Health, the 6-week series starts on Thursday, Feb. 20 and runs for six consecutive Thursdays from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch provided.

The class location is the Mary Alice Warren Community Center  7632 Warren Park Drive Lewisville, NC 27023. Register by contacting Meredith Brown-Robbins at 336-748-0217 or mbrobbins@shepherdscenter.org.

Meals-on-Wheels volunteers needed

Senior Services needs Meals-on-Wheels volunteers to deliver hot, nutritious meals to older adults on Fridays between 9:45 a.m. and noon. Volunteer opportunities are flexible and can be scheduled once per week, once, per month, or anything in between. Delivery routes can take 60  90 minutes.

For more information, visit seniorservicesinc.org or contact Tyler Smith at 336-721-6961 or tsmith@seniorservicesinc.org.

Samaritan Ministries needs help with meal preparation

The Samaritan Ministries Soup Kitchen has an urgent need for volunteers willing to help with meal preparation and serving. If you are willing and available during these times, your commitment would be much appreciated. Our Soup Kitchen cant serve without you.

Lunchtime: We need 12 volunteers to help serve lunch every day. Shifts are available Monday  Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Dinnertime: We need 6-8 volunteers to help serve dinner every day. Shifts are available Monday  Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Grocery Store Pickup: We need individual volunteers to help pick up donations from our partnered grocery stores in Winston-Salem. This opportunity is available Monday  Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Volunteers must be 18 and older to sign up.

Add your name to the volunteer on-call list. We are also in need of people to call for help when we have volunteer cancelations or a shortage in numbers. This opportunity is great for those with flexible schedules and a giving spirit. Please let us know if youd be willing to be on-call as a Soup Kitchen help when needed.

Volunteer as part of the Samaritan Family. Visit samaritanforsyth.org or call 336-448-2677 to sign up.

Samaritan Ministries is located at 414 E. Northwest Blvd., Winston-Salem.

Volunteers needed at the Williams Adult Day Center

Senior Services is looking for volunteers to provide support and assist with activities at the Williams Adult Day Center. Flexible scheduling is available Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Senior Services is looking for volunteers to assist with afternoon participant checkout. Volunteers will help participants prepare to leave, gather belongings, sign out and meet their caregiving partners. This role is needed on weekdays, one to five days per week, between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m.

Sing, dance, act, play an instrument, or perform? Senior Services would love to invite you and or your group to perform for the participants at the Williams Adult Day Center. Morning and afternoon options are available Monday through Friday.

For more information on any of the opportunities above, visit seniorservicesinc.org or contact Tyler Smith at 336-721-6961 or tsmith@seniorservicesinc.org.

VFW honor guard needs volunteers

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Honor Guard needs volunteers to help render military honors for deceased veterans from all branches of the military.

The honor guard is also active with color guard missions at schools, churches, retirement centers and other civic events. Uniforms and transportation are provided.

Members must be honorably discharged from military service.

For more information or to volunteer, call Cliff Harris, quartermaster, at 336-403-8756, or email clifhar@windstream.net.

Respite volunteers needed for visits

The Shepherds Center needs respite volunteers to visit with an older adult to provide a break for their caregiver.

To learn more about these flexible opportunities, email volunteer@shepherdscenter.org or call 336-748-0217.

Drivers needed to help older adults

The Shepherds Center needs volunteer drivers to help older adults get to and from doctor appointments or grocery trips.

Volunteer on a schedule that works for you. Email volunteer@shepherdscenter.org or call 336-748-0217.

Hospice agency needs volunteers

Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care needs volunteers to help deliver compassionate care to patients at the end of life. Mountain Valley serves 18 counties in North Carolina and Virginia.

Volunteers are needed for such activities as reading or singing to patients, caregiver respite care, running errands, being a good listener and emotional support.

There also is a need for licensed or certified volunteers to provide such specialized services as art, massage, music and pet therapies. Hairdressers and notaries also are needed.

Most volunteers must complete a training program, pass a background check and meet other requirements, depending on their volunteer role.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Heidi College at hcollege@mtnvalleyhospice.org or call 336-355-0419.

Shepherds Center seeks visitation volunteers

The Shepherds Center is looking for visitation volunteers to visit an older adult on a flexible schedule.

For more information or to volunteer, email Meredith Brown Robbins at mbrobbins@shepherdscenter.org or call 336-748-0217.

Caregiver support group meetings set

The Alzheimers Association offers a Caregiver Support Group at 10 a.m. on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at The Shepherds Center of Greater Winston-Salem (upper level), 1700 Ebert St., Winston-Salem.

A trained facilitator provides a safe place for caregivers of people living with dementia to develop a support system, explore ways of coping, and learn about resources.

For more information or to register, go to act.alz.org/NCmonthlyprograms, or call 800-272-3900.

SECU Family House needs volunteers

The SECU Family House needs groups and volunteers to provide meals for Family House guests.

These dinners provide much-needed support to adult patients and their caregivers who are away from home for medical care. Food may be prepared in the Family House kitchen or prepared off-site and dropped off. Having the meals at the Family House allows the families to avoid going to restaurants or grocery stores.

To see details and a list of available dinner dates and to learn more about a variety of off-site and on-site volunteer opportunities, visit www.familyhousews.org/volunteer or contact volunteer@familyhousews.org or 336-793-2822.

RSVP AmeriCorps Seniors seek help

The RSVP AmeriCorps Seniors (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) is looking for volunteers aged 55 and older, in-person and online.

Volunteer opportunities include:

In-person Reading Buddies: (In-school setting) Petree Elementary School, second grade, from 10:45-11:45 a.m. (After-school setting) Latino Community Services, 3:15-4:30 p.m.

Virtual (online setting): Reading Buddies, must have strong computer skills and be familiar with Zoom. Slots available in the morning and/or afternoon. In the morning, read to pre-K students from 10:30-10:45. In the afternoon, read with students in the first through third grades from 3:30-4:30.

Food Pantry Assistants: Assist with packing food boxes and distributing them to clients from 9:30-11:45 a.m. on Mondays and/or Fridays.

Food Pantry Clerical Assistants: Must have strong computer skills to input client data. Volunteers are needed for three hours on Mondays and/or Fridays, noon to 3 p.m.

Drivers are needed to transport clients to medical appointments for partner agencies in Winston-Salem and Kernersville.

Mailing Support: Fold, stuff, seal, label, stamp and send bulk mailing letters.

For more information or to volunteer, email Patricia Gilliam at pgilliam@lovecdcrsvp.org or call 336-269-2762.
This post is part of the digital companion series to Jen Psakis The Blueprint, a new podcast examining where Democrats stand after big losses in 2024 and how they can win again. Below is an adapted excerpt from the March 3 episode featuring former Rep. Tim Ryan of Ohio.

When I reflect on Novembers election, two glaring omissions are missing from the Democratic Partys messaging: acknowledgment and empathy. The lesson Democrats should take away from Kamala Harris loss to Donald Trump is the importance of meeting people where they are emotionally. If Democrats dont do that, their message isnt going to stick.

Just consider my home state of Ohio. Over the years, deindustrialization, globalization and automation have just compounded, leaving many Ohioans in a tough spot. What I wish the Democratic Party would have said to these voters is simple: I know youre hurting but its going to take a little time for us to right this ship.

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The country just went through a pandemic. Disinvestment and deindustrialization decimated entire communities. Democrats know that  thats why theyve passed massive bills and implemented policy to try to help, investing in infrastructure, chip manufacturing, wind and solar energy, batteries and electric vehicles.

But the Democratic Party also needs to be honest with the American people. Theres no quick solution here. Theres going to be a lot of bumps along the way so Democrats should tell voters, Were sorry but were going to do this as quickly as we can.

Thats a message I believe Joe Biden could have successfully communicated to voters. When he was still the partys nominee, I wish he could have just said to the American people: Hang with me. Trust me. Ive lived in communities like yours. Ive seen this before. Its going to take a while to fix but just give me a chance.

Democrats should have acknowledged the tough spot a lot of Americans were in. They should have shown voters theyre empathetic. But we also cant just look in the past and talk about what the Democratic Party should have done. Democrats in Congress have a real opportunity to right that ship and show voters what the party really stands for.

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Theres an analog element to this, members should be holding town hall meetings as often as they can. They need to get on the local news. Its time to start building the case for the American people. But that doesnt mean Democrats should run around with hair on fire over every issue.

Consider the Trump administrations recent cuts to the U.S. Agency for International Development. During my time in Congress, I voted on foreign aid. I sat on the Defense Appropriation Subcommittee. I know the value of those programs and how they save the U.S. money in the long run. But I dont think Democrats want the discussion to be about how theyre defending foreign aid while people in their districts are still trying to figure out how to make ends meet and buy a carton of eggs. Why take the bait on that? Havent Democrats learned?

My advice for Democrats is just that: Dont take the bait on everything coming out of this White House. Sometimes the smartest strategy is just to play possum. As Democratic strategist James Carville recently suggested in a guest essay for the New York Times, maybe the most daring political maneuver Democrats could implement right now is to roll over and play dead.

Just let people see what the Trump administration is doing, uninterrupted. Then Democrats can point and say, Wait, Trump didnt say he would do that during the campaign. Trump said he would fix the economy. So why is he so focused on Ukraine? Why is he proposing tax breaks for billionaires?

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Once voters start seeing that and feeling the impact of Trumps policies  like a mother who lost her child care because of budget cuts  they will start to realize hes not delivering on his promises. Thats when Democrats can acknowledge, empathize and recapture the narrative to show the American people what their party truly stands for.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz (D) has expressed his regret at the way in which he felt he got swept up  as Democratic nominee Kamala Harris running mate  in combating a racist lie that was peddled by Donald Trumps campaign during the 2024 election.

They sucked me in on the debunked rumor that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were eating the pets of local residents, Walz told New Yorker editor David Remnick on the latest episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour podcast.

I was just horrified and angry when they were demonizing folks in Springfield, Ohio, and there I was talking for almost a week about immigration, right where they wanted us to be, Walz remembered.

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The lie  which reached a pinnacle with Trumps false debate claim about theyre eating the cats and dogs  bothered me on a real human basis, Walz added.

On that one I was pretty fired up, you know, pushing back, it wasnt fair, we need to do this. It just struck me, he said. But Trump was right, for whatever reason, Walz lamented, that more people were OK with saying that than they were against.

Listen to the full episode here:

Related...
The Democrats stunning 2024 loss has not turned Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz away from the idea of running for the top office in the country.

Walz, last years vice presidential nominee under former Vice President Kamala Harris, did not rule out the idea of taking on the Republicans againexcept this time, he could be the one running the show.

In an interview with The New Yorker, 60-year-old Walz said that he was willing to step up to the plate.

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Look, I never had an ambition to be President or Vice-President. I was honored to be asked, he told the outlet. If I feel like I can serve, I will. And if nationally, people are, like, Dude, we tried you, and look how that worked out, Im good with that.

Democrats everywhere have been wondering whats next after an astonishing defeat from Republicans last November, losing all seven swing states.

When Walz was asked to clarify, he said simply: Ill do whatever it takes.

Harris is said to have been considering running again in 2028. California Gov. Gavin Newsom positioned himself as a possible contender in 2024 if President Joe Biden turned down reelection, but dutifully stood behind Harris after her run was announced. Other possibilities for the top spot include Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro.

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While he mulls the idea of a presidential run, Democrats have been scrambling to come up with new ideas to reach out to voters. The party hoped to fight back against President Donald Trump during his term, but have so far failed to do anything meaningful in response to his tactics.

Since Trumps inauguration, his administration has flooded the zone with dozens of controversial initiatives, creating a tough environment for Democrats to catch up.

In response to the 2024 loss, Walz said that he feels like he let people down.

I still struggle with it, Walz said. It was my job to get this one.
In a hurry? Feel like time is getting away from you? Losing sleep?

You may be anticipating the next big time change. The time change when we lose an hour of sleep.

Yes, we're talking about the arrival of daylight saving time.

We wrap everything up for you in a quick, easy-to-read package. Here are five things  well, we did sneak in a bonus one because it was interesting but you don't have to read it  to know about the time change coming up soon.

1. When is time change 2025?

Daylight saving time starts at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 9.

2. Why does daylight saving time start at 2 a.m.?

Simply put: because of train schedules. When daylight saving time was introduced, 2 a.m. was the time that would interrupt the least number of trains, according to Michael Downing in his book, "Spring Forward: The Annual Madness of Daylight Saving Time."

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A midnight time change would have required moving the date to the previous day.

3. Do we set clocks forward or back an hour for daylight saving time?

Move your clock forward one hour, if you have to do it manually.

Use this handy phrase to remember: Spring forward, fall back.

4. Why do we still change time?

While the Sunshine Protection Act  to make daylight saving time permanent  was approved by the U.S. Senate in 2022, it wasn't approved by the U.S. House of Representatives or signed into law by the president.

Florida has preferred to stay on daylight saving time all year.

5. Can Florida stay on standard time all year?

While a state needs congressional approval to stay on daylight saving time all year, staying on standard time all year only requires a state law. The state also would need to notify the U.S. Department of Transportation it will not be observing daylight saving time, the DOT said in an email.

Bonus: Was it farmers who wanted daylight saving time?

That would be a big no. Farmers were the strongest opponents to daylight saving time and resisted it from the beginning, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.

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The farmer objects to doing his early chores in the dark merely so that his city brother, who is sound asleep at the time, may enjoy a daylight motor ride at eight in the evening," the Old Farmer's Almanac said, citing a writer for the "Literary Digest."

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Time change 2025: When is daylight savings?
DENVER (KDVR)  Colorados snowiest month is kicking off with a winter storm that could bring rain and snow and create a messy commute on Tuesday.

According to the National Weather Service, March sees, on average, 11.4 inches of snow  making it the snowiest month of the year. After a week of dry and warm conditions in the 60s, the wet weather is returning to Denver.

Denver weather: Mild before rain, snow, and wind; Pinpoint Weather Alert Day Tuesday

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Tuesday is a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day, and drivers should prepare for a slippery commute across Denver, the foothills and the Palmer Divide as snow and rain move in.

Pinpoint Weather Alert Day on March 4

Here is everything you need to know to prepare for the wet weather.

Timing

The last of the 60s will stick around through the beginning of Monday, as conditions stay mild. However, the change moves in by the afternoon.

According to Pinpoint Weather Meteorologist Travis Michels, clouds will increase through the afternoon, as snow builds in the high country. The winds will pick up as well.

The Front Range may see a quick evening rain shower before it switches to snow overnight. Winter weather advisories and winter storm warnings will be in effect from Monday evening until 5 p.m. Tuesday.

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There are also blizzard warnings in effect from midnight until 2 p.m. on Tuesday and include cities like Kiowa, Elbert, Larkspur, Castle Rock and Fondis.

Pinpoint Weather: Winter weather advisories on March 3

Most of the snow will fall overnight Tuesday and end by the late morning hours, and by the afternoon, some clearing is expected.

Light snow is still possible in the foothills and across the plains during the second half of Tuesday, but by the late evening, winds will slow as the storm wraps up.

Totals

Snow totals around the state will vary by Tuesday evening, but that doesnt mean the impact wont be felt across Colorado.

FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up for weather alerts from the Pinpoint Weather team

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Because Colorado has been so warm, its important to remember that there will be some initial melting before any snow sticks.

The Pinpoint Weather team has more confidence that the metro area will only be wet, but other areas across the state could see a few inches of fresh snow.

Here are the preliminary snow totals as of Monday morning:

Denver: Trace to an inch

Eastern Plains: 2-8 inches

Mountains: 2-10 inches

Mountain passes/backside of foothills: 2-14 inches

Palmer Divide: 3-5 inches

Pinpoint Weather: Statewide snow totals on March 3 Pinpoint Weather: Metro area snow totals on March 3

Impact

Not every corner of the state will see snow, some areas may only see rain and a few flurries. This includes the metro, where the Pinpoint Weather team believes mostly rain will fall.

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Michels said some melting is expected across the Front Range due to the recent warm temperatures. However, areas along the Palmer Divide will see snow stick. Both of those areas could see impacts to the Tuesday morning commute.

Due to the melting and possible refreezing, roads are expected to be slick Tuesday, so plan ahead and take it slow as you drive to work or school.

Aside from the snow, wind will be a big factor on Tuesday. High winds could create blizzard conditions along the Eastern Plains, even if there isnt a ton of accumulation. NWS said winds between 50-70 mph are possible.

The strong winds could cause low visibility and re-cover roadways, so plan ahead if you are traveling east of Denver.

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View the latest Weather Alerts in Denver and across Colorado on FOX31

The snow will move out by the end of Tuesday, and Wednesday will bring back a mix of sun and clouds. Temperatures will warm a little to the upper 40s.

Another dose of wet weather could move in Thursday night and last through Friday morning. However, the Pinpoint Weather team said snow accumulations currently appear to be less than an inch.

By Sunday, temperatures in the 60s could return.

The storm is still developing and preliminary snow totals and timing will change. Be sure to stick with the Pinpoint Weather team for the latest updates.

Denver, Colorado weather resources

Stay prepared for storms and forecast changes, a Pinpoint Weather Alert Day and other important weather information:

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The Pinpoint Weather team will continue to update the forecast multiple times each day.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
The director Sean Baker probably didnt predict this outcome while he was filming Anora, his latest small-budget indie project, in the snowy Brooklyn neighborhood of Brighton Beachthat a couple years later, hed be accepting Best Picture at the Academy Awards. It was one of five prizes that his spiky indie dramedy collected on Hollywoods biggest night. After a drawn-out awards season in which the biggest contenders seemed often in flux, Anora dominated at a fun if elongated Oscars ceremony. This years Best Picture winner also took home Best Director, Best Actress, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Editing. Four of those trophies went to Baker, tying a record for individual wins in a night with the legendary Walt Disney; Anoras young star Mikey Madison received the Best Actress trophy, in a fairly shocking upset over the widely tipped-to-win Demi Moore.

Anora is an unconventional Oscar juggernaut. As Baker reminded audiences from the stage, its a true indie picture, made for $6 million and with no huge names in the cast. But after a triumphant debut at last years Cannes Film Festival, where it won the coveted Palme DOr, Anora continued marching toward industry-wide recognition. The movies success is the culmination of a career thats seen Baker make the most of shoestring budgets and film whole movies on an iPhone. But Anorawhich bested blockbuster heavyweights like Wicked and traditional awards fare like A Complete Unknownwas an especially incongruous winner this year, as it received its flowers during a notably old-school Academy Awards ceremony. This years show reminded me of the extravagant, zingy celebrations of cinema from my youth, with a highly competent host leading the viewer through nearly four hours of speeches, montages, and musical numbers.

[Read: The filmmaker who wants to wake us from the American dream]

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Some might see the events duration as a problem. Indeed, concerns over the Oscars length have led to some strange truncations of the show in recent years. (Remember in 2022 when the producers cut some awards categories from the live broadcast, presenting them before it began?) This year reused the 2024 ceremonys fairly ingenious solution to the runtime problem: Just start the whole shebang earlier. The live broadcast started at 4 p.m. in Los Angeles, which meant even the comparably roomy proceedings wrapped up during prime time on the East Coast. And though some familiar causes of bloat, such as performances of each of the Best Song nominees, were absent, nature abhors a vacuum, and this years showrunners found plenty of other superfluous moments to include.

To be clear: I think the excess is great. The Oscars should be long, indulgent, and for the fans; the ceremony happens once a year, and it should be staged at the same absurd scale as something like the Super Bowl. Any attempt to impose rigor and order on them tends to backfire in some unexpected way anyway. This year, the shows 97th edition, there was very little tweaking to the proven formula. Conan OBrien served as emcee, about as seasoned a choice imaginable for a first-time host, and he did exactly what an Oscar host is supposed to do: tell pithy jokes about the nominees, do a couple of silly, scripted bits, and otherwise keep things moving with a smile on his face. OBrien has been a pro at that sort of thing since I was in elementary school.

The choice of OBrien as host also set the expectation that this was probably not going to be a politically charged Oscars. The comedians brand is more focused on irreverence than commentary; he offered one glancing gag noting that Anora is about standing up to a powerful Russian, but little else in that vein. He took a couple of cheerful swipes at the Best Actress nominee Karla Sofia Gascon over her past inflammatory tweets, but otherwise steered clear of Oscar politicking, too; this was not a night where it felt like an attendee might take the stage to slap a presenter. Instead, the tone was self-serious, yet still fun, as exemplified by musical numbers celebrating the leading ladies of Wicked, the recently deceased producer Quincy Jones, and the James Bond franchise.

[Read: Conan OBrien understood the assignment]

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These segments were conceptually loosewhy was The Substance star Margaret Qualley suddenly onstage jerking her limbs to Paul McCartneys Bond theme song, Live and Let Die? I couldnt really tell you, but the moment felt like the kind of forgettable, florid nonsense that graces even the most polished of Oscar ceremonies. Every year, the shows producers try to think of new ways to celebrate movies, but the hoariest methods are usually best. There were some playful twists this year, however, such as performers addressing craft-award nominees directly to spotlight their work, and the stage opening up to reveal the orchestra playing the nominated scores.

But largely, Oscar night was pleasantly familiar, a respite after years of relatively chaotic ceremonies. This years event did have a little more pep to it than last years, when Oppenheimer swept the big awards, however. Several films picked up trophies: Behind Anora in number of wins was The Brutalist, which ended up taking three categories (Best Actor, Best Cinematography, and Best Score). Dune: Part Two and Wicked each earned two technical trophies, while Emilia Perez, the nomination leader, won for Best Supporting Actress and Best Original Song. Emilia Perezs turnout in particular was a fall from seeming dominance, perhaps precipitated by Gascons controversy.

Or perhaps not. Anora reigned supreme at many of the guild awards that presage the Oscars, which tend to be the best predictors of these things. Despite the films offbeat subject matterabout a sex worker who impulsively marries a Russian oligarchs sonand its screenplay filled with hectoring insults and curse words, Anora is a screwball romantic comedy at its heart. Its story clearly spoke to the widest swath of voters, even if many pundits predicted that the tonier, more highfalutin adult drama Conclave would emerge as a consensus winner. (That film, about a papal conclave gathering to select a new pope, had to make do with a sole win for Adapted Screenplay.)

Baker, a chipper presence each time that he took the stage, passionately read from a piece of paper for his Best Director win. He argued for the primacy of the theatrical experience, a message that hes been pushing throughout this awards season. Intentionally or not, the show around him was doing the same, harkening back to an older Oscars vibebefore streaming cinema and shortened cinematic windows were problems anyone in the audience had to deal with. Anora is currently one of the lowest-grossing Best Picture winners ever, but its $15 million domestic gross is a relative success for such a small-scale work in this day and age. Bakers hope, which is one I share, is that his Oscar success will spur studios to reevaluate the importance of both the moviegoing experience and art that reaches beyond big-budget homogeneity. The Oscars, amid all their silliness, remain one of the best ways to get people watching interesting films of all sizes.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
Update: As of Monday at 11 a.m., The Lewis County Sheriffs Office said they have not had any contact with Terrance Naffziger.

LEWIS COUNTY, TENN. (WHNT)  The Lewis County Sheriffs Office is searching for a man who may be in North Alabama. He is wanted for questioning about an aggravated assault incident.

According to a LCSO spokesperson, authorities are searching for Terrance Naffziger for questioning about an aggravated assault the sheriffs office is investigating. Naffziger is said to be from the Cullman area.

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Savannah Whitehead, who was also wanted for questioning, has been located.

(Terrance Naffziger

Courtesy: Lewis County Sheriffs Department)

(Terrance Naffziger & Savannah Whitehead

Courtesy: Lewis County Sheriffs Department)

Download the WHNT News 19 App to stay updated on the go.

Sign up for WHNT News 19 newsletters to have news sent to your inbox.

The spokesperson said the sheriffs office has been using all available resources since the assault was reported and that it is believed Naffziger could be in North Alabama, particularly in the Florence and Cullman areas.

The sheriffs office is working with authorities in the area to find him.

Anyone with information is asked to contact local law enforcement. People are also asked to contact LCSO at 931-795-5096 or 931-796-3616 to forward any information to Investigator Potts or Investigator Atkinson.

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LCSO asks that people do not approach Naffziger. The spokesperson said the matter is under investigation so not all information can be given.

The Naffziger is suspected of driving either of the vehicles shown, with license plate number 7081BM3 on the red F-150 pickup truck.

(Courtesy: Lewis County Sheriffs Department)

(Courtesy: Lewis County Sheriffs Department)

The victim is still in the hospital at this time and their condition is unknown.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
Since the first Monday of March is celebrated in honor of Casimir Pulaski, here are 10 things from the Tribunes archives to know about the Polish-born American hero.

Is an important event missing from March 3? Email us.

Review: In Illinoise at Chicago Shakes, a Sufjan Stevens album is choreographed into something new

Weather records (from the National Weather Service, Chicago)

High temperature: 80 degrees (1974)

Low temperature: Minus 6 degrees (1873)

Precipitation: 1.21 inches (1966)

Snowfall: 3.9 inches (1960)

1. Pulaski is known as the father of the American cavalry.

Pulaski met Benjamin Franklin in Paris in 1776, where the Polish military veteran offered his services to the American Revolution. He fought at the Battle of Brandywine in Pennsylvania in September 1777, where he led an attack against the British that helped save the retreating American Army.

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After Brandywine, George Washington made Pulaski a general and appointed him as the first leader of the U.S. cavalry. He led Pulaskis Legion, a brigade of German Hessians, French and Poles that prevented Charleston, South Carolina, from being overtaken by the British in 1779. That battle helped turn the tide in the Americans favor in the South.

2. But Pulaski is not the only Polish hero of the American Revolutionary War. Theres also Tadeusz (Thaddeus) Kosciuszko.

Kosciuszko is a symbol of more than Polish pride and heroism. He opposed the oppression of Jews and peasants in Poland and slavery in America. He was an early leader for universal human rights.

There is a statue of Kosciuszko opposite the Shedd Aquarium on Solidarity Drive.

3. Pulaski lived in the U.S. for only two years.

Offering his services to the American Revolution, Pulaski famously wrote Washington: I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it.

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Pulaski arrived in the U.S. in July 1777. He was shot during a cavalry charge during the the Siege of Savannah and died Oct. 11, 1779. He was most likely 34 years old.

4. Pulaski had been forced out of Poland.

Before he came to the United States, Pulaski was a military leader in his native Poland. He was born March 6, 1745, in Warka (though some sources say 1747). Pulaski became a general who tried to liberate his country from Russian invaders, according to George Otto of the Polish American Congress.

When the Polish military was overwhelmed by Russia during regular battles, he and his fellow cavalry members turned instead to guerrilla raids on horseback. Eventually he realized that the raids were not going any place against superior forces and fled to France.

5. Pulaski Day was first celebrated in Illinois  officially  in 1986.

Though Chicagoans had held parties and parades in Pulaskis honor for decades, the state didnt honor him until more than two centuries after Pulaskis death.

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Illinois Gov. Jim Thompson signed a bill creating the state holiday on March 2  the day before it was first celebrated. The holiday took Illinois by surprise at first, according to a Tribune story from 1986.

Chicago-area lawmakers had been trying to pass the bill for some time but always ran into opposition downstate, where theyve never heard of Pulaski, Lucyna Migala, a native Pole and a radio station operator, told the Tribune at the time. Migalas brother, George, said city workers who got the day off asked him who Pulaski was.

6. Lawmakers have been trying to kill the holiday since day one.

The same day it was first celebrated, state Rep. John Countryman, of DeKalb, told the Tribune he was pushing to repeal the law in the Illinois General Assembly. Countryman said Pulaskis birthday should be honored in a commemorative way, like St. Patricks Day, not with a legal holiday.

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While the holiday originally required a day off for all school districts in Illinois, state legislators passed a bill in 1995 that allowed school districts to skip the holiday.

Some lawmakers continued to push for Pulaski Day  and Columbus Day  to be abolished as state holidays. However, it never succeeded, and advocates for Pulaski Day credited the movement with increasing awareness of the general.

Controversy attracts attention. People who probably never heard of Pulaski before are becoming interested, Edward Dykel, president of the Roman Catholic Union of America, told the Tribune in 1995. They have heard so much about him on TV and the radio that they are asking, Who is this guy?

7. Pulaski Road has been around longer than the holiday, but was still controversial.

It was originally called Crawford Avenue, after Peter Crawford, a Scotland-born pioneer who helped organize the township of Cicero. The road was named for Crawford in 1883; the Chicago City Council voted to change the name for Pulaski 50 years later and it officially changed in 1934.

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Merchants along the street protested, fearing their businesses would suffer as a result of the change, according to a Tribune article from 1985 recapping the 50-year-old drama. A spokesman for the City Club, Lester H. Forbes, said the change would do a grievous wrong to the thousands of Crawford Avenue residents and (would) completely fail in its object of honoring Count Pulaski.

But Cook County Judge John Prystalski accused those opposing the change of bigotry, asserting that some might object to living on a street (with a name) ending with ski. We might as well be frank. People with those names are just as good as anyone else. We are living in an age of change.

The merchants sued after the change, making it to the Illinois Supreme Court twice (and losing both times).

The Crawford Avenue name lives on in the near north and south suburbs.

8. March 3 is not the only Pulaski Day.

Wisconsin schools celebrate Pulaski Day every year on March 4, but kids still have to go to class if it falls on a weekday. Instead its known as a public school observance day, where teachers are asked to teach children about elements of tradition that preserve U.S. society and foster an awareness of our cultural heritage.

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Theres also a federal day  Gen. Pulaski Memorial Day  celebrated Oct. 11 to commemorate Pulaskis death. It was approved by Congress in 1929.

9. Pulaski has been an honorary U.S. citizen since 2009.

Congress passed a bill in 2009 making Pulaski an honorary citizen of the United States that was signed into law on Nov. 6, 2009, by President Barack Obama. The bill originally was introduced by Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill.

At the time, Pulaski was only the seventh foreigner given the distinction. He joined William Penn, a founder of the Pennsylvania colony, and his wife, Hannah; the Marquis de Lafayette, a Frenchman who supported the American Revolution; British Prime Minister Winston Churchill; Swedish humanitarian Raoul Wallenberg, who rescued Jews during the Holocaust; and Mother Teresa.

10. Pulaski may have been intersex.

A Smithsonian Channel documentary that premiered in April 2019 makes the case that Pulaski may have been intersex, or with a body that doesnt fit neatly into standard definitions of male and female.

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In The General Was Female? scientists used skeletal remains and DNA testing to make a case that a skeleton with female features was Pulaskis. The debate over whether the skeleton is really his has been raging since as far back as 1854, when his remains were moved to a monument in Savannah, Georgia.

Want more vintage Chicago?

Subscribe to the free Vintage Chicago Tribune newsletter, join our Chicagoland history Facebook group, stay current with Today in Chicago History and follow us on Instagram for more from Chicagos past.

Have an idea for Vintage Chicago Tribune? Share it with Kori Rumore and Marianne Mather at krumore@chicagotribune.com and mmather@chicagotribune.com
As the Air & Space Forces Associations annual Air Warfare Symposium kicks off today in Aurora, Colorado, private adversary air company Top Aces is previewing its new constructive wingman capability that will begin test and evaluation on its F-16A/B aggressor aircraft starting this spring.

The constructive wingman is essentially a synthetic aircraft that Top Aces F-16 aggressor pilots can control from their cockpits. It is inserted digitally into the sensor pictures of both the aggressors and the aircraft training against it. While there is no aircraft physically added to the aerial engagement, for the aircrews involved, it appears as real on their cockpit displays.

The artificial intelligence and algorithms that comprise the constructive wingman are based on software developed by EpiSci (now merged into Applied Intuition), a company that TWZ has covered in relation to its work with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agencys (DARPA) Alpha Dogfight program and subsequent live-flight augmented reality dogfights with AI agents.

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Adding one or more synthetic wingmen to a red air sortie complicates the tactical picture for the blue forces that train against Top Aces aggressors and can do so at very little cost. Among its activities, the company provides aggressor training through the Air Forces Combat Air Force Contracted Air Support (CAFCAS) program to F-35 pilots going through Formal Training Units (FTUs) at both Eglin Air Force Base in Florida and at Luke AFB in Arizona.

F-16s from Top Aces refueling alongside Luke-based F-35s. (USAF)

Students at both locations go through an eight month B-course (basic course) as they transition to the F-35, learning to employ its deep capabilities in a variety of missions including offensive/defensive air to air.

In beyond visual range (BVR) scenarios, the extra synthetic aircraft that Top Aces plans to introduce represent more targets for the new F-35 students to grapple with, and larger and more varied formations than they would typically see with only live aircraft or in fully simulated training environments. It also fits in with the USAFs push to more deeply integrate seamless live, virtual, and constructive training, which you can read all about in our previous explainer here.

Live And Constructive Aircraft Pump Up Real World Stress

The War Zone spoke with Top Aces vice president of business development, Brian Taz Delemater, and the companys director of enterprise technology, Aaron Fang Steffens, about the added training value that the constructive wingman capability could offer.

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As Steffens acknowledges, seeing expanded formations of mixed real and synthetic adversary aircraft, which all appear as legitimate target tracks, while actually in the air ratchets up psychological pressure on blue force students that simulated environments cannot.

Thats the thing about live training. There are so many things you can and want to do in a virtual environment right now, especially high-end tactics. But we dont think theres a replacement for live training with real airplanes out there. It changes the dynamic on how the student, or even an experienced instructor, is thinking when moving at speed. There are other live aircraft out there that are trying to shoot you and theres an element of risk.

Mixing constructive and live aircraft in an airborne training environment could provide highly valuable lessons for F-35 pilots who often train in flight simulators to replicate fifth-generation adversary threats and threat environments that cannot easily be recreated in the real world.

The War Zone has extensively covered Top Aces in recent years, detailing its operations and its acquisition of ex-Israeli Air Force F-16A/B Netz fighters, as well as the capabilities it has added to them. These include active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars, infrared search and track (IRST) systems, and a proprietary open mission system called the Advanced Aggressor Mission System (AAMS).

But its important to point out that these capabilities reside in just a handful of Top Aces F-16s, which the company refers to as its F-16 AAF (Advanced Aggressor Fighter). Top Aces began receiving the ex-Israeli aircraft in 2021, eventually acquiring 29 of the fighters.

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By mid-2025, 14 of these will be airworthy and mission-ready. As of now, four jets are configured to the AAF standard including Link-16 datalinks and a Thales Visionix Gen III Scorpion helmet-mounted display system (HMDS), in addition to the capabilities mentioned above.

Obviously, AAF jet use is at a premium which is why they are heavily tasked with aggressor training for fifth-generation blue forces. Top Aces has stationed four of its F-16s at Eglin and another four at Luke. Two of the jets at each location are AAFs. Adding constructive wingman capability to these would effectively increase the number of enemies Top Aces can present to F-35 students in a given sortie.

How It Works

Top Aces has developed constructive wingman software through its own Patuxent River, Maryland-based integration lab. Much of its work has centered on building out the pilot-vehicle interface for the new capability.

The constructive wingman will be managed by Top Aces aggressor pilots through a multi-functional display (MFD) on the lower center pedestal panel in the cockpit rather than via a knee-mounted tablet display as has become common with other additive AI-based systems. Pilots will use standard HOTAS (hands on throttle and stick) controls to command the constructive wingman.

Top Aces Viper cockpit. James Deboer

The software is integrated through the companys AAMS and the constructive wingman is presented via Link-16 data-link to the blue forces and other Top Aces aggressor aircraft. The F-16 AAF pilot sees his constructive wingman on his MFD just like you would see a radar track or anything else, Steffens explains.

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Before engaging during a red air sortie, the Top Aces pilot sets up the constructive wingman for desired formation offset and spacing. The virtual aircraft can be put into any kind of formation to give a beyond visual range look that matches the sortie training objectives.

This is the same way that we would look to direct a manned or unmanned live wingman, Steffens says. His mention of unmanned aircraft is purposeful.

An image showing the Advanced Aggressor Fighter F-16s multi-function display capability screen. It provides high-situational awareness displaying information from the radar and other onboard sensors as well as from other platforms via data-link. Tracks are also projected in the pilots Scorpion helmet-mounted display system. It also shows weapons engagement envelopes for threat profile simulation., James DeBoer

Delemater points out that Top Aces sees its constructive wingman capability as a possible prelude to training with mixed manned-unmanned formations using the same control methodology. The concept of unmanned aggressor aircraft, called ADAIR-UX, was viewed with enthusiasm a couple of years ago as TWZ highlighted but has since been overtaken by the increased focus on collaborative combat aircraft (CCAs).

But unmanned aggressors may yet find favor. Until such time, Top Aces reckons that its constructive wingman could add immediate value and experience that may later translate to some form of ADAIR-UX.

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After configuring his constructive wingman, the Top Aces pilot will give general commands to it on how to engage blue forces. Youre telling him to be West, now turn hot, to drag-out, Steffens says, those kinds of higher level directions just like you would give to a live F-16 wingman, you just cue them through the hands-on throttle and stick [controls].

The AI engine then flies the constructive wingman, maneuvering the synthetic sensor target with faithful kinematics. The AAF pilot can see the maneuvering as part of the friend-foe target tracks on the F-16s MFD.

Blue force F-35s see the same combination of maneuvering real and synthetic aggressor aircraft on their displays. The constructive wingman is transmitted from the Top Aces F-16 via Link-16 and appears as a real adversary aircraft in the F-35s missions systems and cockpit display.

For a given sortie, Top Aces can change the kinematics of the constructive wingman as well. We could have it fly like an F-16, we could have it fly like a different type of adversary aircraft as well, Delemater adds.

Top Aces F-16s flying in formation. James DeBoer

As a blue force-red force engagement proceeds and possibly closes to shorter-range, the constructive wingman may no longer populate the blue force/red force operating picture rendered via Link-16. Thats because physically merging with Top Aces constructive wingman is not possible.

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To ensure that any remaining synthetic targets disappear or are disregarded as red and blue forces physically merge, Steffens explains that, We would develop a plan with the blue lead or instructor of record and the range training officer [RTO] beforehand. If there is an RTO, which is usually the case, particularly for larger fights, they can handle it all in real time. If theres no RTO, there are still ways to manage [the constructive aircraft] depending on the training scenario. Then any discrepancies would get ironed out in the debrief.

That would leave live aircraft to tackle the close-in fight if the training sortie calls for such a scenario, Steffens noted. Then, they have the highly maneuverable live F-16s that theyre actually merging with.

Steffens adds that most of the B-course training flights that Top Aces does are scripted to provide targeted training to the F-35 student  working out a plan in advance is common and not difficult.

Given the one constructive wingman-per-AAF Viper capability, the current maximum four-ship formations that Top Aces can fly at Eglin and Luke could become six-ship formations  a flight of two standard F-16s and two AAF-configured F-16s that are also controlling two synthetic wingmen.

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However, Delemater told TWZ that a future iteration of the constructive wingman software may allow one F-16 to project/control two synthetic aircraft. As experience with the constructive agents is gained, the company will be able to assess what sort of workload directing two synthetic targets would impart to pilots. Such experience may eventually extrapolate to cockpit control of unmanned aggressor aircraft as well.

Were going to continue to develop the capability, Delemater affirms. A lot of it depends on how OT&E goes and the feedback from the customer.

The Value Proposition

Top Aces executives point out that the constructive wingman effort is entirely driven and funded by the company and its partners, including EpiSci, which Top Aces has an ownership stake in. As things stand, there is no U.S. Air Force or Navy requirement for contract aggressor-generated constructive target capability.

But if the company can demonstrate enough bang for the training buck, the services might become interested. Real aggressor aircraft and pilots are extremely expensive, if essential, training tools. Added constructive capability could stretch the return on investment from training beyond presenting taller challenges to blue forces.

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Simple math illustrates the cost efficiency potentially gained with constructive wingman capability. Top Aces declined to share information on the cost of operating its F-16 AAFs with TWZ but some rough estimation is possible.

Steffens confirmed that the average red air sortie for Top Aces F-16s has a 1.3 to 1.6 hour duration based on factors such as transit distance to ranges and time in afterburner. According to recent estimates, the USAF cost per flight hour (CPFH) of operating an F-16C is approximately $27,000. Using this number and given a 90-minute aggressor training flight, the cost of flying an aggressor F-16 may be on the order of $40,500 per average sortie.

Top Aces F-16 flies off the wing of a tanker. (USAF)

Its worth noting that contracted red air support is traditionally less expensive all-in than the cost of organic red air support with a similar aircraft from within the service, but many factors impact cost. Regardless, its not massively different as fuel and maintenance and other primary factors are what they are for a given type.

So, adding another F-16 or two could cost an additional $40,000-$80,000 per sortie. Top Aces potential fee for adding constructive wingman capability is unknown but the cost is theoretically a tiny fraction of flying one or two additional real aircraft, and this would largely be up-front investment for Top Aces, not a high per-sortie expense.

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For the price of one F-16, theyre going to get two, Delemater asserts. Steffens adds that at range, they can get multiple targets for the price of one.

Zoom out and look at the total expense of adding real vs. synthetic targets across the F-35 B-course syllabus and the cost differential should grow markedly in favor of the constructive wingman.

Top Aces distinguishes their EpiSci AI-driven constructive wingman from other synthetic entities because it can be manipulated from the cockpit rather than by an operator typically on the ground. Eliminating the need for ground control of the constructive wingman and shifting it to the cockpit potentially represents further savings.

Top Aces has yet to formally brand or name the capability because of copyright concerns. The company was on the precipice of previewing its constructive wingman at last Septembers AFA Air, Space & Cyber Conference in Washington DC, planning to use the moniker Red 5.

But a release on the capability was pulled, partly out of concern about copyright infringement. According to Top Aces vice president of business development, that was not the only reason. Delemater said the constructive wingman was and is awaiting clearance from DoD to use specific Link-16 transceivers to facilitate its function.

He added that the (USAF) customer hasnt been in a rush to add the capability. We also thought that maybe it would make more sense to wait until we were closer to being able to truly demo this.

Demonstration will unfold within what Top Aces refers to as a series of operational test and evaluation flights slated for some time this spring. The Air Force will likely sit-in on these flights, which will be done from Eglin Air Force Base. If the capability is appealing enough, the service could build it in as a requirement for the CAFCAS program. That could lead to introducing it elsewhere.

Asked whether Top Aces views its constructive wingman as a value-add for advanced training exercises like Red Flag or the recent Bamboo Eagle, Steffens replied in the affirmative. Were a deployable exercise force. We do that quite a bit with our customers in multiple exercises and we could bring this constructive wingman capability with us.

Top Aces F-16s at their headquarters in Mesa, Arizona. James Deboer

Top Aces might also bring the capability to overseas customers. At least one of the companys A-4N Skyhawks based at Wittmundhafen in northern Germany has been upgraded to full AAF status with the AESA, IRST and AAMS capabilities that its quartet of AAF F-16s have. Adding constructive wingman capability to more of these aircraft would make sense, Steffens says.

If you think about it, there are going to be 600 F-35s over there. The ability to train against more targets at range and still have live assets out there for all the reasons weve discussed would have value overseas as well.

If the constructive wingman is adopted for aggressor training in the U.S. and abroad, its presence wont be obvious. While the IRST pods, special antennas, and pilots wearing the Scorpion helmet-mounted displays that signal AAF aircraft might be discernible, the software that enables the constructive wingman is as physically invisible.

The outcome of its potential success may one day be seen by the naked eye if the constructive wingman experience leads Top Aces on a path to realizing an ADAIR-UX-like capability.

Our company still believes that theres a significant benefit to moving forward with unmanned aircraft in an adversary training environment, Steffens concludes.

Contact the editor: Tyler@twz.com
Attorneys on both sides of a lawsuit filed by neighbors of a Winston-Salem fertilizer plant who say they were harmed by a destructive fire at the facility more than three years ago will go before a mediator this month.

A trial in the case is scheduled for Sept. 2, but the mediation process is aimed at potentially reaching a settlement outside the courtroom.

The lawsuit hit a critical milestone in January when Superior Court Judge Edwin Wilson Jr. accepted a motion to make the suit a class action, which means the five named plaintiffs will represent a larger group of impacted residents that could number in the thousands.

The class certification order is often sort of a tipping point for the defendants to agree to mediation or to take settlement talks more seriously, explained Jonathan Cardi, professor at the Wake Forest School of Law. It puts increasing pressure on the defendant to say, Oh, wow, theres a real chance that I could lose this case.

In this case, the defendants are the owners of Winston Weaver Co., whose mishandling of potentially volatile ammonium nitrate  a common ingredient in fertilizer  contributed to the fire and heightened the risk of a potentially deadly blast at the firms 80-year-old facility at 4440 N. Cherry St., according to the lawsuit.

Firefighters took days to extinguish the blaze and at one point retreated over fears that the flames could spark what Winston-Salem Fire Chief William Trey Mayo suggested could have been one of the worst explosions in U.S. history.

Longtime mediator Robert Beason from Durham will guide talks between the two sides. Where those discussions may lead is difficult to predict, said Gary Jackson, an attorney for the plaintiffs.

I dont have a feel for how serious the defendants are in settling, added Jackson, an attorney at the Law Offices of James Scott Farrin in Durham.

Lawyers representing Winston Weaver did not respond to questions about the case.

A number that they can agree on

Beason, who also is a senior lecturing fellow at Duke University School of Law where he has taught negotiation and mediation for nearly three decades, will steer a process akin to shuttle diplomacy, said Cardi, the Wake Forest professor.

That can include poking holes in the opposing attorneys cases as they weigh the potential size of a settlement.

Mediators sort of push each side to consider the strengths of the case and to try to push them closer to a number that they can agree on, Cardi added.

Attorneys for the plaintiffs will open the process by making a monetary demand, and the companys representatives will counter with their own figure, explained Jackson, lawyer for the impacted neighbors.

The exchange will initiate a give-and-take exercise.

And the parties dont have any obligation in this mediation to reveal what their actual floor or ceiling is, Cardi added.

Representatives of Winston Weavers insurance company are expected to be part of the mediation process, said Jackson, the plaintiffs attorney.

Thats no surprise because the amount of coverage determines a starting point for what the company will be able to pay, Cardi explained. Any additional liability would require accessing other assets.

The plaintiffs say, I cant take anything less than this (in a settlement), and the other side says, I cant pay more than this, Cardi said. Then, its a matter of negotiating between those two points.

Winston Weaver also is faced with costs for state-mandated environmental testing and cleanup of the 8-acre fire site and a second property where it was found to have improperly stored raw materials.

Hidden dangers and unsafe conditions

The fire broke out around twilight on the evening of Jan. 31, 2022. It resulted in a voluntary evacuation affecting thousands of people after firefighters learned that the Weaver plant contained an estimated 600 tons of ammonium nitrate.

While the lawsuit was filed on behalf of five people, the fact that 6,500 individuals lived in nearly 2,500 households within the evacuation zone makes it possible that many more neighbors could ultimately join as plaintiffs and share in a settlement.

The suit alleges that Winston Weaver raised the risk of a fire or explosion by improperly storing ammonium nitrate and failing to train employees on how to work with and store hazardous chemicals.

Before the fire, neglected structural deficiencies likely exposed stored ammonium nitrate to water when it rained, a post-blaze investigation by North Carolina Department of Labor probe concluded.

Moisture also can cause shorts in electrical equipment, which under the right conditions could have potentially sparked stored ammonium nitrate made more dangerous because it solidified after becoming wet and then drying, the state reported.

In addition to an alleged lack of oversight, the company also failed to inform neighbors and the city of hidden dangers and unsafe conditions present at the plant, of which they knew or could have discovered by reasonable inspection in the exercise of due care, the lawsuit claims.

The plaintiffs are seeking property-related compensatory and punitive damages related to:

Loss of the use and enjoyment of their property.

Lost wages and profits from being delayed and/or prevented from entering homes, schools, factories, and stores.

Evacuation expenses, mental anguish and inconvenience.

Other incidental and consequential damages.

Predicting the size of a potential settlement is futile, said Cardi, the law professor.

The process is squishy, he explained. Theres not a science.
A top spokesperson for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) who served during President Trumps first administration announced his abrupt resignation just weeks after being sworn in to his new role in Trumps second term.

Tom Corry, who served as assistant secretary of public affairs at HHS, announced on LinkedIn he resigned Friday effective immediately.

I want to announce to my friends and colleagues that last Friday I announced my resignation effective immediately. To my colleagues at HHS, I wish you the best and great success, wrote Corry.

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Corry served in the first Trump administration in a similar role, that of senior adviser and director of communications at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

He resigned less than two weeks after announcing he had been appointed and sworn in, writing at the time on LinkedIn he was thankful that Ill be part of the team that is going to work to make America healthy again, and on making healthcare more affordable and accessible.

HHS did not immediately respond when reached by The Hill for comment on Corrys abrupt departure.

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A heavily-weathered Lutheran church in the American Midwest (Getty Images)

Welcome to The Topline, a weekly roundup of the big numbers driving the Minnesota news cycle, as well as the smaller ones that you might have missed. This week: the changing religious landscape in Minnesota; state ranks low on education recovery; public funding of private schools; and a drop in new Black med school enrollment.

Minnesotas religious landscape

Last week the Pew Research Center released the third iteration of their Religious Landscape Study, which has tracked changes in American religious beliefs and practices since the mid-2000s.

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The big-picture trends include a decline in people identifying as Christians, along with a sharp increase in those who dont belong to any religion at all. In 2007, for instance, 83% of Minnesota adults identified as some type of Christian, while just 13% were religiously unaffiliated. In 2024, by contrast, 63% of Minnesota adults said they were Christian, while 29% now belong to no church at all.

Among Minnesota Christians, declines have mostly been concentrated among mainline Protestant denominations and Catholics. The share of Minnesotans identifying as Methodist has fallen by more than half, from 5% to 2%. Lutherans, who once made up 21% of the population, now account for 16%. The Catholic share has fallen from 28% to 18%.

The share of evangelical, or born-again Christians has held steady over the years, at around 20% of the population.

The rise of atheists, by contrast, perfectly mirrors the decline of Methodists: 2% were atheist in 2007, and 5% identify as such today. Agnostics, who made up just 1% of the population in 2007, now account for 9% of all adults. An additional 15% say theyre simply nothing in particular.

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Another notable trend is the increase in the Muslim population, who went from 1% of adults in 2007 to 3% in 2024.

Changes in Minnesotans religious practices reflect those denominational shifts. More than half of Minnesotans prayed at least daily in 2007, but just one-third do so now. About one-fifth of Minnesotans now attend religious services at least once a week, compared to nearly 40% in 2007 (although Pew cautions that comparison is somewhat fraught due to changes in survey methodology).

Some of the populations social and political views have changed as well. Today nearly 70% of Minnesotans say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, up from 49% in 2007. Similar shifts are apparent in favorable views toward homosexuality and gay marriage.

Minnesotans are also now considerably more likely than they were in 2014 to say that immigrants change society for the better. And compared to the rest of the country, Minnesotans stand out for their support of environmental regulation: 71% say stricter environmental laws are worth the cost, compared to 60% nationwide.

Minnesota ranks in the bottom tier of states on education recovery since the pandemic

A joint Harvard/Stanford project to measure K-12 learning loss since the pandemic finds that Minnesota ranks 45th among the states on students recovery of math proficiency, and 34th on reading.

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Todays Minnesota students are about three-quarters of a grade level below their 2019 math ability, and are half a grade level below their pre-pandemic reading proficiency.

The report notes that a sharp increase in chronic absenteeism is one factor in Minnesotas ongoing educational struggles. A relatively low level of federal pandemic relief spending in the state may also be contributing to the problem.

The study also provides breakdowns of student achievement and recovery at the district level.

Minnesota private schools receive $109 million in public aid

For decades, Minnesota taxpayers have subsidized the states private schools, including religious schools, to the tune of tens of millions of dollars each year. The funds pay for services like transportation, nursing, counseling and school supplies.

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But that all may be coming to an end, as MinnPost reports: Gov. Tim Walzs proposed budget zeroes out $109 million in state aid to private schools, and private school advocates are not happy about it.

Minnesota has more than 400 private schools enrolling more than 70,000 students. Those private school students are, on average, considerably more likely to be white than their public school counterparts, and are much more likely to be from high-income families.

Fewer Black students are enrolling in Minnesota medical schools

The share of Black students newly enrolled in Minnesotas medical schools fell 3 percentage points between 2023 and 2024, Axios recently reported.

Last year just 7.8% of first-year med students in Minnesota were Black, down from 10.9% the year prior. While a 2023 Supreme Court decision striking down affirmative action policies likely played a role in the drop, the decline is steeper than what med school officials had anticipated.

The Trump administrations recent crackdowns on diversity, equity and inclusion policies may depress Black enrollment even further.
Critics of Brexit shrug with bewilderment that a kooky Tory hobby-horse somehow exploded into a national civil war.

A considerably different niche Tory obsession  namely erasing international human rights from English law  looks set to drag the country into a far darker existential crisis. Should the party open this particular Pandoras Box, its final demise seems infinitely more likely.

When Kemi Badenoch signalled her shift towards backing the UKs exit from the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) in a speech last week, some on the Tory Right felt pangs of relief; finally, their new leader was showing some willingness to materially harden her immigration stance in the face of the Reform surge.

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But other MPs claim they are ready to leave the party over the issue. Those on resignation watch are not all centre-tacking wets, but include a smattering of high-profile Brexiteers. Some insist that leaving the ECHR would be a very bad day for Britain and further relinquish our international role. Many are flabbergasted at Mrs Badenochs speech, claiming there was no need for such grandstanding.

As one MP who is considering leaving the party told me: Shes perfectly entitled to set the mood music that the ECHR doesnt always work for us. But there are ways of doing that short of declaring that youre leaving.

The idea of certain Brexiteers resigning the whip on the point of principle that Britain should remain a member of a European court may seem mind-blowing. But that is precisely what could happen, should Mrs Badenoch double down.

Its hard to see how an already diminished party could survive a rush of defections. The remaining rump would have little choice but to seek a pact with Reform. It would be the end of the Tory party as we know it.

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The battle for Brexit and the crusade against the ECHR are fundamentally different beasts. Euroscepticism was a rebellion against a particularly remote vision of modern liberalism, based on technocratic rationalism.

The movement to leave the ECHR displays a quite different motive, namely that one should be willing to sacrifice freedom and dispense with liberalism altogether in order to keep order and resist excessive social change. Some conservatives might say that dispensing with human rights is simply the price that must be paid to stop the boats. For others, no political objective can be worth it.

Tory libertarians have misgivings about the claims of rights-sceptics. The idea that overweening foreign judges pose a threat to democracy has grown popular. Yet it is Parliament  and increasingly an executive blob of ministers, departments and state agencies  that is ultimately behind the proliferation of law that has seeped into every nook and cranny of our lives. Such executive power sometimes asserts itself with brute force  such as it did during lockdowns.

Rights-sceptics argue that European judges have expanded the definition of human rights beyond recognition, citing the invention of a right to family life. But the pandemic revealed the modern states willingness to invade this sacred realm, preventing people from mixing with  or even attending the funerals of  loved ones. It may not be so wise to forsake such a liberty.

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The EU integration project is Continental in spirit, rooted in Gallic dreams of a Latin Empire that might match both the American and Russian power blocs. In contrast, the vision of a rights-based global order that underpins the ECHR was exported by Britain to Europe.

Winston Churchill was one of its leading advocates. The idea that people are born with natural basic rights that have a foundation independent of the laws of any particular society was invented by Englishman, John Locke.

A conception of freedom that tightly links it with the rule of law  rather than the arbitrary rule of men  is a peculiarly English idea and derives from centuries-long struggles against monarchical despotism.

Its bizarre that the Tory party has drifted towards a zero-sum choice between border control and human rights. If the objective is to pursue the Rwanda policy, its hard to see how leaving the ECHR gets the Right closer to that goal.

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The Supreme Courts ruling that the Rwanda policy was unlawful, hinged on the principle of non-refoulement. This cornerstone of international law underpins the Refugee Convention.

Even if one believes that international human rights law has become an obstruction to the national interest, it does not follow that the UKs only choice is to disengage from it.

The ECHR has been changed more than a dozen times before. The UK has a track record in leading its reform. If other countries are also affected by European judges meddling in immigration cases, then it stands to reason that other member states will rally behind the UK.

It is a myth that the ECHR strictly requires unanimous support to change the way it works. A few years ago, when Russia was still a member and refused to ratify a treaty change, the court passed an interim procedure to bypass this blockage.

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As Dr Stuart Wallace, an expert on the EU Convention at the University of Leeds told me: Theres absolutely nothing stopping a government from calling a meeting next week to speak with European allies and find common ground. Its feasible to arrange a conference and make changes to the convention. Its been done before.

Perhaps more importantly, legal eagles reckon that fudging reform of the much maligned Refugee Convention might involve fiddling with the definition of a refugee on the one hand, and a tightening of Article 31, which protects refugees who lack the proper paperwork, on the other.

As Dr Reuven Ziegler, an expert in refugee law pointed out to me: Theres a strong argument for opening up formal routes for seeking asylum in the UK, with applications being initially scrutinised before refugees set foot in Britain. To some extent that is what happened when we allowed Ukrainians to apply online. If that approach was generally adopted, it could open the way for rethinking legal questions such as the particular framing of Article 31.

That nobody is hashing out such a roadmap for reform  and the centre-Rights most influential think tank Policy Exchange is calling instead for the nuclear option  is testament to Toryisms brain dead state. Kemi Badenoch is keen to offer the country robust but credible solutions. It is hard to see how leaving the ECHR in a sulk serves this end.

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SPRINGFIELD, Missouri  One of the nations largest superstores specializing in wine, beer, and spirits is coming to the Ozarks.

Work is taking place on the new Total Wine & More Wine Superstore at 3808 S. Glentone in the Primrose Marketplace. The store space is the former location of Bed Bath & Beyond, which closed all of its sites in 2023 as part of its bankruptcy.

City of Springfield records indicated the retailer applied for a Building Project permit back in December. However, visible construction work has been ramping up in recent days.

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Total Wine currently operates four stores in the Kansas City metro, including two stores in Kansas City proper, along with individual stores in Overland Park and Lees Summit. There are also four stores in the Saint Louis area. Nationwide the company operates 227 stores in 29 states, according to its website.

Ozarks First has reached out to Total Wine & More Superstore for more details on a timeline for a grand opening but has not heard back from them just yet. However, details provided on the company website offer a glimpse as to what customers can expect at the new store.

Were passionate about wine, and know many of our customers feel the same way. So we are committed to offering the nations best wine selection, with an emphasis on fine wines. Our typical store carries more than 8,000 different wines from every wine-producing region in the world. The typical Total Wine & More also carries more than 2,500 beers, from Americas most popular brands to hard-to-find microbrews and imports, and more than 3,000 different spirits in every style and price range.

In addition to large alcohol selections, Total Wine stores also carry premium cigars and other tobacco, gifts, and various accessories.

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Ozarks First will keep you posted regarding a grand opening announcement.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOLR - OzarksFirst.com.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  The Town of Tonawanda on Monday announced that its overnight parking ban for the winter of 2024-25 has been lifted.

Residents have been asked in the event of significant snow accumulation to attempt to remove their cars from the street to make room for plows to come through.

Effective immediately, the Overnight Parking Ban in the Town of Tonawanda has been lifted, an email from a town representative said. In the event of significant snow accumulation, residents are asked to make every effort to park their vehicles off street to allow Town Highway Department plows to effectively plow their streets.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to News 4 Buffalo.
Russian forces struck a Ukrainian military training ground in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on March 1 during a formation exercise, Mykhailo Drapatyi, Commander of the Ground Forces of Ukraine, said on March 3.

A day earlier, reports of a Russian attack with an Iskander-M ballistic missile on a training ground in the village of Cherkaske near the regional center of Dnipro began circulated on social media. The strike was allegedly carried out after an Orlan drone spotted a formation of soldiers about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the front line.

Drapatyi did not disclose the number of Ukrainian soldiers killed and injured. He added that the truth about the attack could be hidden "in the fog of bureaucracy" but promised to prevent this.

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"A tragedy at a training ground is a terrible consequence of an enemy strike. The war requires quick decisions, responsibility, and new safety standards; otherwise, we will lose more than we have," Drapatyi said.

Drapatyi added he had launched an investigation into the circumstances of the strike and appointed an independent review with the participation of military counterintelligence.

"Everyone who made decisions that day, and everyone who did not make them on time, will be held accountable. No one will hide behind explanations or formal reports," he said.

Read also: Im full of anger  Ukraine awakes to a nightmare as US freezes military aid

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Later on March 3, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said the head of the unit training center that was hit and the commander of the military unit had been suspended from duty.

"In the middle of the day, on March 1, the enemy attacked one of the military units on the territory of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine training ground in the Dnipropetrovsk region," he said.

"As a result of the hit of the Iskander-M ballistic missile equipped with cluster munitions, there are dead and wounded," he added.

Also on March 3, Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation announced it was opening criminal proceedings into the "death and injury of Ukrainian servicemen as a result of a Russian missile strike on a training ground in the Dnipropetrovsk region."

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This is not the first time Russia has attacked Ukrainian troops while they are lining up in the rear.

On November 3, 2023, in a village near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian forces attacked a group of soldiers. As a result of the Russian missile strike, 19 soldiers of the 128th Brigade and two civilians were killed.

According to an investigation by Ukraine's Defense Ministry, the soldiers were gathered in the courtyard of a house during an awards ceremony while all camouflage rules were ignored.

Read also: Ill need more ammo  Ukraines soldiers react to Trump-Zelensky Oval Office showdown

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A homeless man faces sentencing Monday for an unprovoked attack on an Asian American woman in Culver City that was deemed to be a hate crime.

Jesse Lindsey pleaded guilty to federal charges in the June 14, 2021, assault that was captured on security video.

The victim was walking to work at about 1 a.m. when, according to federal prosecutors, Lindsey approached her and yelled, You cant say hi to a [expletive] white boy?

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Lindsey, whose last known address was in Fontana, then punched the woman in the head, causing her to fall onto the street and hit her head.

Jesse Lindsey is seen punching a woman in Culver City in June 2021. (Culver City PD) Jesse Lindsey is seen punching a woman in Culver City in June 2021. (Culver City PD)

While the victim was face down on the street, Lindsey shouted, You hear what I said, [N-word]? I said good morning, b****! prosecutors said.

The victim suffered injuries to her head and ear, which required approximately 11 stitches.

Authorities released surveillance video of her attacker inside a nearby convenience store shortly after the attack. After he was identified and arrested, the prosecutor said Lindsey made multiple derogatory and profane remarks about people of Asian descent.

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Lindsey will face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Two of the states largest healthcare systems  Novant Health Inc. and Duke Health  said Monday they are collaborating on expanding their presences statewide that includes developing new campuses.

The systems said in a Duke Health news release the systems expect construction on the first sites to begin this summer and fall, with each site to open 18 months after the start of construction. They said additional updates will be shared as the collaboration progresses in the coming months.

Duke and Novant provided limited information about their collaboration other than to say clinicians from both systems will be available in new locations, increasing access to both primary care and advanced specialty treatments.

Novant said the joint news release includes all the information we have to share at this time.

Carl Armato, president and chief executive of Novant, said in a statement that the systems have a shared vision for what healthcare can look like.

Our collaboration means the communities we serve together will benefit from our combined focus on quality, innovation and excellence in patient care and experience, Armato said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Craig Albanese, chief executive of Duke University Health System, said were taking bold steps to bring the excellence and innovation of Duke Health to more patients, in more ways, across more communities.

Were energized by the possibilities of what we can accomplish in collaboration with Novant Health for communities across our region.

Its unclear whether these healthcare facilities and campuses will be subject to certificate of need approvals from state health regulators, which typically are required of major projects to limit, if not prevent, unnecessary duplication of services in markets.

The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services said Monday that if the planned construction is for a physician office building to improve access to care, enhanced specialty services, and telehealth and virtual care options, a certificate of need is not required unless it will include a new institutional health service as defined in the CON law.

More locations mean shorter wait times and more appointment availability, the systems said. The collaboration will also explore ways to empower patients with more opportunities to connect with specialists virtually.

The systems said the collaboration represents their efforts at developing novel partnerships to improve health outcomes for more communities across the region, and provide an exceptional patient experience for all.

Its not clear whether Mondays announcement represents a new initiative or a follow-up on a July 2016 announcement in which the systems disclosed exploring the mutual benefits of complementary clinical services and value-based care network initiatives, prompting the two health systems to initiate discussions of a potential collaboration.

At that time, the systems stressed their discussions do not represent any legal, structural or financial agreement between the two organizations.

Just the facts

Novant operates 19 hospitals systemwide, including Forsyth, Clemmons, Kernersville and Thomasville medical centers and Medical Park Hospital in Winston-Salem.

Novant has nearly 40,000 employees, of which 8,145 are in Forsyth County as one of the Triads largest employers.

Duke is the largest employer in Durham County and the second-largest private employer in North Carolina.

Duke University Health System has 26,278 full-time employees. The academic Duke University Medical Center has more than 11,000 full-time employees. It operates Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital and Duke Raleigh Hospital.

In February, Duke Health joined WakeMed and Lifepoint Health in opening the 52-bed Peak Rehabilitation Hospital in Apex.

The hospital, announced in 2021, represents a joint venture between the two healthcare systems and Lifepoint Rehabilitation. Duke Lifepoint Healthcare has an extensive footprint across North Carolina with nine acute care hospitals.

Lifepoint Rehabilitation manages day-to-day operations for the hospital, providing acute rehabilitation care for patients who have experienced a loss of function from injury or illness.

State Medical Facilities Plan

The 2025 State Medical Facilities Plan was unveiled recently, which determines the annual growth needs for hospitals and healthcare equipment in all 100 counties.

The plan demonstrates a need for an additional 267 acute-care beds in Wake County, 210 in Mecklenburg County, 136 in Union County, 129 in Buncombe County, 126 in Cabarrus County, 82 in either Caswell, Durham or Warren counties, and 46 in Alamance County.

Novant has struggled to gain state health regulators approval to open a major hospital presence in the Triangle.

Novant has been denied twice by state health regulators in its bid to establish a hospital, in large part because it doesnt already have a hospital in the market.

The latest attempt for a $286.94 million, 36-bed Knightdale Medical Center was denied in February. Novant has until Thursday to file an appeal of the decision.

Meanwhile, an Alamance community hospital would enable Novant to fill a service gap in the Triad and put it on the edge of the Triangle, as would a Durham County hospital.

Analyst reactions

Zagros Madjd-Sadjadi, an economics professor at Winston-Salem State University, said there are potential pluses and minuses related to the collaboration.

A lot will depend on the nature of the collaboration, but it could mean reduced competition in predominantly rural locations where the two currently compete head-to-head and there are no other competitors, Madjd-Sadjadi said. Such a result could increase costs and wait times for patients.

On the other hand, synergies between the two systems could reduce administrative cost, and it is possible that this will be passed on to customers. That could lower the cost of care in such cases, especially if the two systems are not the primary competitors in a region, such as larger metropolitan areas.

Tony Plath, a retired finance professor at UNC Charlotte, said it's likely that Duke Health is envisioning expanding its provider presence beyond North Carolina through the Novant collaboration.

Novants executive leadership is not bashful about touting the growth potential  from $10 billion in annual revenue currently to $30 billion  through hospital acquisitions.

For the second consecutive year, Armato and his management team presented their vision to a JPMorgan Health investor conference.

Novant offered on Jan. 22 several PowerPoint pages touting its remarkable branding in terms of patient care, along with its artificial intelligence advances.

Yet, the essence of the presentation is demonstrating Novants financial strengths compared with current and potential future competitors.

Besides tripling annual revenue to $30 billion by an unspecified target date, Novant wants to become the Southeasts leading regional health system beyond the Carolinas to include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee.

Novant claims in its investor presentation already being the leading health system in the Carolinas ... driving diversified growth with the largest, high-value network in the region.

"We can acquire other hospitals, implement our strategy and continue to post strong financial results," Novant chief financial officer Alice Pope told investors.

Plath said Novant is pursuing the Southeast expansion to "counter the growing advantage of Atrium Health."

"What better way for Duke to penetrate the Florida healthcare market ... and what better way for Novant to show up at the JPMorgan healthcare conference next year with still more news about increased profitability and territorial expansion?" Plath asked.

"Thats great stuff for Novant to add to its PowerPoint slide deck."
Photo by Shauneen Miranda | States Newsroom

From securing funding for Indian Health Services and ongoing water settlements to increasing investments in infrastructure, education and law enforcement, many Indigenous leaders and organizations are raising the alarm about the devastation that federal funding cuts could bring for Native Americans.

More than 60 tribal leaders and organizations from across Indian Country testified over three days to a U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations subcommittee on the federal funding needs of Indigenous people and their communities nationwide.

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I know theres never enough funding to go around, Gila River Indian Community Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis said, and he appreciates how the subcommittee has consistently set aside several days to hear Indian Countrys funding priorities.

It is the process that starts the funding decisions for tribal programs, staffing and priorities for this administration, he added. Tribal leaders and organizations gave five-minute testimonies to the subcommittee from Feb. 25 to Feb. 27.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Lewis used his five minutes to discuss the Trump administrations actions and their impact on his community.

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There is real fear within tribal communities about what is happening in Washington, D.C., he said, referencing the freezing of federal funding and the mass firing of federal employees across the government.

Lewis said that many may applaud the slashing of federal funding because they have been convinced it is fraught with waste and abuse, or even those who see federal employees as a new enemy.

I doubt you will hear a tribal leader argue that the federal government cant be made more efficient or that there arent places where cuts could be made, he said. After all, we have been dealing with the federal government longer than any other group in this country.

However, Lewis said the chainsaw approach of indiscriminately cutting employees, taken by President Donald Trump and billionaire businessman Elon Musk, who has been directing the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, will not create efficiencies or save billions of dollars.

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He added that the cuts are being made without considering how they will impact services. Rather than making the government more efficient and effective, it is creating a federal workforce that is paralyzed by fear.

Lewis called the administrations actions destabilizing and said they will have a disproportionate impact on Indian Country.

The government-to-government relationship is only as strong as our federal partner, he said. And right now, there is a real concern that the federal side of this partnership has the real potential of being dismantled.

Lewis said that reforms can be and should be made. But, he said, they should be made in a way that provides insight, dignity and consultation with tribal governments and among those with the experience and knowledge of tribal programs.

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It is up to this committee to make those decisions, he said, ensuring certainty among Indigenous peoples that the essential programs they depend on wont be cut.

Certainty that our tribal sovereignty will be upheld and honored, he added.

Treaty and trust obligations

Multiple tribal leaders and organizations urged the subcommittee to help them hold the administration accountable for the federal funding allocated to Indigenous peoples and their communities.

Tribal programs are not DEI initiatives, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community President Martin Harvier said, referring to the Trump administrations efforts to eliminate all diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the federal government. They are a fulfillment of treaty and trust obligations and must not be subject to arbitrary reductions or freezes.

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During the three-day subcommittee hearing, tribal leaders and organizations emphasized their communities various needs, highlighting issues ranging from insufficient law enforcement to the necessity of sustainable roads on tribal land to the importance of urban Native programs.

Indian Country continues to struggle with generations of crumbling infrastructure, limited access to health care, underfunded law enforcement and an ongoing fight for clean water, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren said. These issues arent just numbers in a budget.

Nygren said it is the everyday realities of Navajo and Native families throughout Indian Country. As an example, he told the subcommittee about the Navajo Nations dire need for emergency medical services support, highlighting how people needing an ambulance often wait 45 minutes or longer.

If an ambulance is even available, he added, noting that Navajo EMS answers roughly 20,000 calls a year and their funding has not been increased in decades.

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This is a matter of life and death, he said. We ask for dedicated funding for our tribal EMS, including a $4 million allocation specifically for the Navajo Nation.

Funding needs for public safety were a big concern for many tribal leaders, including the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

San Carlos Apache Chairman Terry Rambler shared that the San Carlos Apache Police Department has only 19 officers and would need at least 75 to adequately patrol their large tribal land area.

Rambler said San Carlos Apache police officers work 12-hour shifts, patrol over 360,000 miles per year and endure extreme situations made worse by the lack of an adequate facility.

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Our police department is severely underfunded and public safety is severely compromised, he said. Our police department cannot compete with other places that offer higher salaries and better benefits. Other jurisdictions actively recruit away our officers.

During the hearing, Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson, a Republican from Idaho, acknowledged the importance of keeping police officers and firefighters in Indigenous communities rather than allowing the community to serve merely as a training ground for them to move on to areas with better pay and benefits.

Those are important issues weve got to work on, he said.

Tohono Oodham Vice Chairwoman Carla Johnson shared with the subcommittee that there are over 700 miles of Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) roads on her reservation, and they are all in poor condition.

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The BIA road maintenance program has been underfunded for years and has a huge backlog, she said. Only 13% of BIA roads nationwide are in acceptable condition.

Johnson said that more funding must be provided for the BIA roads program because the roads within their community are how tribal citizens access essential services, how federal and tribal law enforcement engage in border security, and how EMS responds.

This funding is critical for the safety of tribal members, law enforcement, emergency responders and all others using our reservation road, she added.

The needs of Indigenous peoples do not stop at the boundaries of their tribal lands, and Urban Indian Health Institute Director Abigail Echo-Hawk used her testimony to remind the subcommittee that Indigenous peoples in urban areas deserve the same type of support.

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Echo-Hawk said that about 76% of Native American people live off their tribal homelands and reside in urban areas.

We need to remember the urban Indian population, she said. The treaty and trust responsibility for our health and wellness did not end when we stepped off the reservation.

Echo-Hawk called on the subcommittee to support funding for the Indian Health Services and Urban Native Health Programs, essential resources and services for many Indigenous people.

What I am asking you is to fight back with us, she said. Fight back to ensure that we have the resources and services as an Urban program to get the treatment for those coming to us.

Senators and representatives call on administration

Amid growing concerns about implementing the Trump administrations executive order on government workforce efficiency, over 100 Democratic U.S. senators and representatives signed a letter to Trump, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., reminding them to uphold the federal governments commitments to tribal nations.

The congresspeople noted that the U.S. government has trust and treaty responsibilities to tribal nations, which are implemented through various agencies to provide tribes with vital health care, education and social services.

Your administrations recent executive actions undermine legally required commitments to sovereign tribal nations, existing federal law, and the federal-Tribal government-to-government relationship, they wrote in the letter.

The letter was headed by Rep. Melanie Stansbury and Sen. Martin Heinrich, Democrats from New Mexico. In total, 113 elected officials signed the letter from the Senate and Congress, including all of the Democratic members of Arizonas delegation.

A spokesperson for Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego said he joined his colleagues in urging the Trump administration to protect resources in Indian Country and fulfill the federal governments promises because he is committed to standing up for Native communities in Arizona.

The recent funding freezes and mass firings within agencies like the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Services only jeopardize essential services and create chaos, the spokesperson said in a statement emailed to the Arizona Mirror.

The letter focuses on the administrations executive order Implementing the Presidents Department of Government Efficiency Workforce Optimiation Initiative and its impact on Indian Country.

The congresspeople indicate that the administration has abruptly fired thousands of federal workers across various government agencies. They have received reports of more than 2,600 at the Department of the Interior, over 100 at the Bureau of Indian Affairs, more than 40 at the Bureau of Indian Education and approximately 950 Indian Health Service employees.

Beyond the legal questions surrounding the ability to fire employees without specifying performance or conduct issues, any unilateral attempts to disrupt existing services administered or funded by the BIA, BIE, IHS, or Tribal-serving entities would directly violate the trust and treaty obligations of the United States to Tribal Nations, the letter states.

The leaders urged the administration to take immediate action to halt, exempt, and reverse any federal offices, services, or funding that serve Indian Country from existing or future executive actions.

Tribal Nations are sovereign governments with a unique legal and political relationship to the United States, the letter states. These trust and treaty obligations in some cases predate both the establishment of all of the agencies in question as well as the United States itself.

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LGBTQ + rights are at stake in a race for a seat on the highest court in Wisconsin. At a campaign event earlier this month in Prairie du Chien, conservative Wisconsin Supreme Court candidate Brad Schimel signaled his openness to enforcing a ban on same-sex marriage in the state if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark 2015 decision that legalized marriage equality nationwide.

Asked by an attendee whether he would support biblical marriage in Wisconsin and what would happen if the U.S. Supreme Court returned the issue to the states, Schimel responded, We have a constitutional amendment thats still on the books, according to a recording obtained by The Advocate. When pressed on whether he would enforce it, he said, If the United States Supreme Court modifies the Obergefell decision, then our constitutional amendment goes back into place.

Schimel also affirmed his support for business owners who want to refuse services to same-sex couples based on religious beliefs. When the attendee asked whether Schimel would do anything to protect those of us who dont want to hire or offer services to people whose marriages violate our religious beliefs, Schimel responded, Your religious rights need to be protected.

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Schimels campaign did not respond to a request for comment from The Advocate.

Schimels comments are in line with his long history of opposing LGBTQ + rights, a record that has drawn sharp criticism from equality advocates. As Wisconsins attorney general from 2015 to 2019, he repeatedly fought against LGBTQ+ protections, including advocating for businesses to be able to refuse service to same-sex couples and defending organizations that sought to criminalize homosexuality.

A long history of anti-LGBTQ+ positions

During his 2014 campaign for attorney general, Schimel pledged to defend Wisconsins ban on same-sex marriage and initially said he would refuse to uphold a 2009 state law granting domestic partnership benefits to same-sex couples. He later reversed his position on the benefits law, but his commitment to enforcing the states same-sex marriage ban remained steadfast, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported .

When the U.S. Supreme Court declined to review lower court rulings striking down Wisconsins ban in 2014, Schimels office was responsible for paying $1.1 million in taxpayer funds to cover legal fees for the couples who had successfully challenged the prohibition, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

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Schimel also used his position as attorney general to support legal efforts allowing businesses to discriminate against same-sex couples. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Badger Herald reports that in 2017, he publicly backed the Colorado baker in Masterpiece Cakeshop v. Colorado Civil Rights Commission, who refused to create a wedding cake for a same-sex couple. That same year, in a television interview with Wisconsin Eye, he lamented that a Wisconsin case involving a photographer who refused to serve same-sex couples didnt go further in the courts, arguing that business owners should have the right to deny services to LGBTQ+ customers. He even went as far as comparing LGBTQ+ individuals seeking services to Nazi skinheads trying to force a Jewish business owner to serve them, the Badger Herald reported .

- YouTube www.youtube.com

Schimels anti-LGBTQ+ advocacy extended beyond marriage equality. He attended a conference hosted by Alliance Defending Freedom, an organization designated as a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, which has worked to recriminalize homosexuality and supports laws allowing discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. Schimels office attempted to conceal records related to his attendance, and when pressed, he defended the group, saying it was not hateful but instead sought to ensure LGBTQ+ rights did not interfere with the rights of other people, according to the Associated Press.

Advocates warn against Schimels potential influence on the court

LGBTQ+ rights groups have condemned Schimels candidacy, warning that his history and rhetoric make him a dangerous choice for Wisconsins highest court. Abigail Swetz, executive director of Fair Wisconsin, said Schimel poses a direct threat to LGBTQ+ Wisconsinites and their fundamental rights.

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Brad Schimel would be a dangerous addition to the Wisconsin Supreme Court because he poses a threat to our rights, both for the rights of Wisconsinites in general and for the LGBTQ+ community in particular, Swetz said in a statement to The Advocate. Every bill passed into law, and every decision made by a court has an impact on the LGBTQ+ community, and that is why we need to have a court we can rely on to protect our rights as Wisconsinites  our rights to safety, health, and the freedom to live as our authentic selves and love who we love.

Swetz also called out Schimels use of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric on the campaign trail, accusing him of deliberately exploiting misinformation to drum up votes. I am also frankly disappointed in Schimels use of harmful and blatantly hateful rhetoric in his campaign, language that targets some of the most marginalized members of our community, she said. In the most generous frame possible, he is woefully misinformed about the LGBTQ+ community and our needs, but I think its more insidious than that, and he is instead preying on that misinformation to drive votes, and I think thats just wrong.

Human Rights Campaign Wisconsin state director Wendy Strout echoed those concerns. Wisconsin deserves leaders that represent Wisconsin values, Strout told The Advocate in a statement. But Schimel, with his support for antiquated, discriminatory policies like an 1849 abortion ban or asking SCOTUS to overturn marriage equality, is not that. Voters should feel confident in telling him no thanks.

Schimels Controversial Remarks on the Wisconsin Supreme Court

Schimel has also come under fire for his recent remarks about the Wisconsin Supreme Courts liberal justices, all women. The AP reports that during a November 12 radio interview, the day after oral arguments in a case challenging the states 1849 abortion ban, Schimel accused the courts liberal majority of being driven by their emotions.

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There were times that when that camera went on several of the liberal justices, they were on the brink of losing it, Schimel said on WSAU-AM. You could see it in their eyes, and you could hear it in the tone of their voice. They are being driven by their emotions. A Supreme Court justice had better be able to set their personal opinions and their emotions aside and rule on the law objectively. This is  we dont have that objectivity on this court.

The four liberal justices, in a statement on Friday, denounced Schimels remarks as an antiquated and distorted view of women. They accused him of suggesting that women are unfit to serve as judges due to their emotions and endorsed Dane County Circuit Judge Susan Crawford as the candidate who would uphold fairness and justice.

The election, set for April 1, will determine who fills the seat being vacated by liberal Justice Ann Walsh Bradley. The Wisconsin Supreme Court currently holds a 4-3 liberal majority after years of conservative control.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correctly report that the election is on April 1.


HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)  Bruce Mendenhall, also known as the Truck Stop Serial Killer was sentenced to an additional 65 years in prison for the July 2007 murder of Carma Purpura of Indianapolis.

Mendenhall is already serving two life sentences in Tennessee for a pair of murders, and he is still facing a trial for an Alabama murder. He is also under investigation for murders in Georgia, Illinois, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

Jury convicts serial killer truck driver in 2007 murder

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Mendenhall met Purpura, a mother of two, at the Flying J truck stop on the southwest side of Marion County in 2007. Purpuras body was discovered four years later down a 75-foot ravine off the side of a Kentucky highway with indications of a fatal bullet wound to the head.

Investigators say the morning after Purpura met Mendenhall, authorities searched his trucks cab and discovered a .22 rifle, a bag of bloody clothes and identifications belonging to Purpura.

Mendenhall was found guilty in January, after less than 90 minutes of delibiration from a Marion Superior Court jury.

This is a developing story.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Eyewitness News (WEHT/WTVW).
President Donald Trump directed his administration to "pause" military aid to Ukraine after the contentious meeting in the Oval Office with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday.

Trump on Tuesday to put in place historic tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada, along with increased duties on goods from China. The move drew retaliations from Canada and China.

The president is scheduled on Tuesday to address a joint session of Congress, as his second administration moves to recast the federal government, implement "America First" policies and redefine U.S. support for Ukraine.





Latest Developments





Mar 4, 3:57 PM

2nd Republican to vote no on short-term funding measure

Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., said he is a no vote on any continuing resolution despite President Donald Trump and top GOP leaders endorsing a clean stopgap measure to fund the government until the end of September.



Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas, also said he will vote against a continuing resolution.

PHOTO: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson speaks during a news conference at the Republican National Committee after a meeting of the House Republican Conference, Mar. 4, 2025 in Washington. (Tierney L. Cross/Getty Images)

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., can only afford to lose one Republican if all members are voting and present and will almost certainly need to rely on Democratic votes to avert a government shutdown.



The deadline to fund the government is March 14.



-ABC News' Lauren Peller





Mar 4, 4:08 PM

Americans will 'have to suck it up' amid federal layoffs, Republican senator says

Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., said Americans will "have to suck it up" as President Donald Trump and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency lay off hundreds of thousands of federal workers.



"There's going to be some tough times," Tuberville told ABC News' Diane Macedo when asked about DOGE's impact. "We have to cut the fat out of out of spending in this country."

PHOTO: Sen. Tommy Tuberville speaks with ABC News from Washington, Mar. 4, 2025. (ABC News)

Tuberville also addressed Trump's tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, saying that "there's going to be a little bit of pain" as the move threatens to drive up prices on groceries, gas and more. "But at the end of the day, if we don't do this, it's going to be much, much worse."



He also voiced his support for Trump's pause on all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, saying he hasn't "voted for any money to go to it because Ukraine can't beat Russia."



-ABC News' Jim Vojtech and David Merrell





Mar 4, 2:50 PM

Trump to meet with hard-liners as shutdown deadline approaches



President Donald Trump will meet with a group of House Republican hard-liners Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the White House to discuss a path forward on government funding as the March 14 shutdown deadline approaches, two congressional sources and one White House official told ABC News.



Trump and top GOP leaders have endorsed a "clean" short-term bill to fund the government until the end of September 2025. However, hard-liners typically despise continuing resolutions, and 34 opposed the short-term measure that's currently funding the government.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on March 3, 2025. (Roberto Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images)

-ABC News' Lauren Peller, Hannah Demissie and Katherine Faulders





Mar 4, 2:34 PM

US, Ukraine could agree to mineral deal as soon as Tuesday

The United States and Ukraine could sign the minerals deal as soon as Tuesday, according to two sources briefed on the discussions.



The deal was originally expected to be signed Friday at the White House, but talks quickly went downhill, and Trump kicked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy out of the White House without completing the agreement.

PHOTO: A dragline excavator operates in an open-pit titanium mine in the Zhytomyr region, Feb. 28, 2025. (Roman Pilipey/AFP via Getty Images)

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Sources caution that nothing is final. However, Trump has indicated to top advisers he would like to get the deal done before his joint address to Congress.



-ABC News' Katherine Faulders and Molly Nagle





Mar 4, 2:17 PM

Senate Democrats blast Trump's 1st month in office ahead of joint address



Senate Democrats blasted President Donald Trump's first month in office ahead of his address to a joint session of Congress, gathering for a news conference on Tuesday while holding up photos of the guests they're bringing to the speech, including fired bureaucrats and others who have been negatively affected by the White House's moves to slash the federal workforce.



"We think one of the best ways to let the American people know how horrible Donald Trump's first 30 days have been is to bring those who have been affected, the victims of his malevolence, of his desire, the tax breaks for the billionaires and make Americans pay for it," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said on the Senate steps.

PHOTO: Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer and fellow Senate Democrats hold photographs of constituents they say are negatively impacted by President Donald Trump's actions during his first month at U.S. Capitol, Mar. 4, 2025 in Washington. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

"Americans who voted for the president didn't sign up for this. They wanted lower costs. ... What is the State of the Union, we ask? Chaos is up, corruption is up, and costs are up for regular people," Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., added.



-ABC News' Isabella Murray





Mar 4, 2:03 PM

Senate Republican says aid to Ukraine should be restored

Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., is wearing his Ukraine pin and a navy blue suit with yellow tie ahead of President Donald Trump's address to the joint session of Congress.



Tillis is a staunch ally of Ukraine who has become increasingly outspoken about his support for the country as the riff between Ukraine and the Trump administration has widened.

PHOTO: Poles and members of the Ukrainian diaspora take part in a rally in front of the US embassy in Warsaw, Mar. 3, 2025. (Wojtek Radwanski/AFP via Getty Images)

"I'm trying to figure out what it would feel like to have been the head of state for a country that has experienced systematic murder rape, kidnapping and torture of tens of thousands of people, and I actually think somebody under that pressure should be given a little bit of leeway when it comes to addressing frustration," Tillis said.



-ABC News' Allison Pecorin





Mar 4, 1:32 PM

Trump administration backs off memo ordering mass firings after court ruling

The Office of Personnel Management has revised its Jan. 20 memo to federal agencies about probationary employees -- now writing that "OPM is not directing agencies to take any specific performance-based actions regarding probationary employees."

PHOTO: A view shows the logo of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), after probationary staff at the OPM were fired in a conference call and given less than an hour to leave the building, outside OPM in Washington, D.C., Feb. 13, 2025. (Tierney L. Cross/Reuters)

"Agencies have ultimate decisionmaking authority over, and responsibility for, such personnel actions," read the memo, which came after a federal judge ruled last week that the OPM's initial directive to terminate temporary employees was illegal.



An OPM spokesperson did not respond to questions about how this change affects workers who have already been fired -- or if this is meant to bring the government's directives in line with the new ruling.



-ABC News' Katherine Faulders and Benjamin Siegel





Mar 4, 1:32 PM

Thune said he views tariff policy through a 'different lens' than Trump

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said Tuesday that he views tariff policy through a "different lens" than President Donald Trump because of the economic impact that tariffs have on his home state of South Dakota.



"I think the president is looking at this as a means to an end. I don't think it is the end itself. I certainly hope it isn't," Thune said during an appearance on CNN.

PHOTO: Senate Majority Leader John Thune accompanied by Sens. Tom Cotton, Shelley Moore Capito, Sen. John Hoeven and Sen. James Lankford speaks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol, Feb. 25, 2025 in Washington. (Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

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He predicted the markets will stabilize but conceded the potential for rising costs for consumers is an "issue."



-ABC News' Allison Pecorin





Mar 4, 1:32 PM

Trump says retaliatory tariff on US will raise reciprocal tariffs

President Donald Trump said retaliatory tariffs on the United States will lead him to raise reciprocal tariffs by 25% on Canada.



"Please explain to Governor Trudeau, of Canada, that when he puts on a Retaliatory Tariff on the U.S., our Reciprocal Tariff will immediately increase by a like amount!" Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social Tuesday afternoon.

PHOTO: President Donald Trump, Mar. 3, 2025 and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Mar. 4, 2025. (Reuters/AP)





Mar 4, 1:15 PM

House Democratic women wearing pink to protest Trump's joint address





The Democratic Women's Caucus Chairwoman, Teresa Leger Fernandez, told ABC News the caucus is calling on women to wear pink at the president's joint address on Tuesday because it is the "color of power and protest."







"It has been used in protest against Trump, and it's been used in protest against Putin, and it is, I think, an affirmation that women are strong," Fernandez said. "This is a color that immediately pops as associated with women, both our power and our purpose."

PHOTO: Rep. Hillary Scholten speaks during a news conference held by the Democratic Women's Caucus at the U.S. Capitol, Mar. 4, 2025 in Washington. (Tierney L. Cross/Getty Images)

"In our beautiful tapestry, we are united against Trump," she added.



-ABC News' Arthur Jones II

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
BALTIMORE  New leadership at the U.S. Department of Justice dropped a case last week that accused Maryland State Police of violating federal employment discrimination laws through the statewide law enforcement agencys hiring practices.

Federal prosecutors dropped the case as President Donald Trumps administration moves to end several anti-discrimination lawsuits through the Justice Departments civil rights section.

The probe of the state polices hiring practices, which federal prosecutors said violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, led to a tentative agreement in the final months of President Joe Bidens administration. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett had not yet given his final approval for the consent decree, though Maryland officials had already approved a $2.75 million settlement after the two-year investigation concluded.

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The Justice Department said last October that the state polices written exam, the Police Officer Selection Test, disproportionately excluded Black trooper candidates. The lawsuit also alleged that the agency used a physical fitness test that excluded female candidates. In addition to settlement payments, state police had agreed to relax their testing standards as part of the consent decree.

Bennett, who had signed off on a provisional consent decree, was set to consider final approval at a hearing in mid-March. Federal prosecutors asked him last week to delay that hearing so that the Justice Departments Civil Rights section could decide whether it would continue litigating the case in light of several orders from the Trump administration. The next day, they said in a court filing that they were dropping the case.

The United States has determined not to proceed further in this matter, the Wednesday filing says. The United States no longer seeks relief that would require Maryland Department of State Police to prioritize candidates for police officers based in any way on race.

The federal governments case came after another discrimination lawsuit accused state police of a longstanding pattern of discrimination through discipline, retaliation and the denial of promotions. That class-action lawsuit is set to continue, with discovery ongoing and the deadline to certify a class of plaintiffs currently set for late September.

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BALTIMORE  New leadership at the Department of Justice dropped a case last week that accused Maryland State Police of violating federal employment discrimination laws, leaving any decisions on reforming the agencys hiring practices to the state.

Federal prosecutors filed to dismiss the case as President Donald Trumps administration moves to end several anti-discrimination lawsuits through the Justice Departments civil rights section. U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett ordered the case closed Monday, days after the Justice Department filed notice it would dismiss the case.

While state police leadership vowed to enhance its hiring practices regardless of any consent decree, advocates described the move as an unsurprising, yet disappointing, setback in their yearslong push against alleged discrimination within the statewide police department.

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With federal oversight of the departments hiring practices now out of the question, they said that they would try to work with state leaders to fix what they describe as a deep-rooted culture of discrimination in policing.

A larger discrimination lawsuit accused state police of a longstanding pattern of discrimination through discipline, retaliation and the denial of promotions. That class-action lawsuit is set to continue, with discovery ongoing and the deadline to certify a class of plaintiffs currently set for late September.

Attorney Michal Shinnar, who represents the plaintiffs in that lawsuit, said Monday morning that while disappointing, the decision to drop the federal case has no impact on the class-action discrimination case and that the plaintiffs will continue to move full steam ahead.

The probe of the state polices hiring practices, which federal prosecutors had said violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, led to a tentative agreement in the final months of President Joe Bidens administration. Bennett had not yet given his final approval for the consent decree, though Maryland officials had already approved a $2.75 million settlement after the two-year investigation concluded.

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The Justice Department said last October that the state polices written exam, the Police Officer Selection Test, disproportionately excluded Black trooper candidates. The lawsuit also alleged that the agency used a physical fitness test that excluded female candidates. In addition to settlement payments, state police had agreed to relax their testing standards as part of the consent decree.

Bennett, who had signed off on a provisional consent decree, was set to consider final approval at a hearing in mid-March. Federal prosecutors asked him last week to delay that hearing so that the Justice Departments Civil Rights section could decide whether it would continue litigating the case in light of several orders from the Trump administration. The next day, they said in a court filing that they were dropping the case.

The delay followed a department-wide memorandum issued by Attorney General Pam Bondi directing staff to thoroughly review materials, including settlement agreements and consent decrees, that may promote diversity, equity and inclusion. The memo, issued the day of Bondis swearing-in ceremony, cited Trumps executive orders that allege such diversity programs violate the text and spirit of federal civil rights laws.

Bondi, a Trump-aligned lawyer who was Floridas Attorney General before representing the president in his first impeachment case, then directed the Justice Departments Civil Rights Division to dismiss lawsuits across the country involving police and firefighter hiring, according to a news release.

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The United States has determined not to proceed further in this matter, the Wednesday filing says. The United States no longer seeks relief that would require Maryland Department of State Police to prioritize candidates for police officers based in any way on race.

The Justice Department said that the Biden administration had branded the aptitude tests at issue in these cases as discriminatory in an effort to advance a DEI agenda, with evidence of statistical disparities but no evidence of intentional discrimination.

Its unclear how the consent decree would have required the department to prioritize candidates based on race. It would have required state police to implement new selection devices that have no statistically significant adverse impact on the bases of race or sex, or have been demonstrated to be job-related for the Trooper position and consistent with business necessity in accordance with Title VII.

Sgt. Anthony Alexander, president of the Coalition of Black Maryland State Troopers, said that while he was not surprised at the Trump administrations move to dismiss the case, he was still baffled that federal intervention was needed in the first place for the state to commit to changes.

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Though it remains to be seen what the state will now do, Alexander said he didnt have much faith in the state to eradicate discriminatory practices without being required by a consent decree.

This has been the Trump administrations calling card  to dismantle anything that helps minorities progress, said Ryan Coleman, president of the Randallstown NAACP, who noted he wasnt shocked to hear that the DOJ dropped its case. He said his group plans to meet with officials including state police Superintendent Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. to reshape the agencys culture.

Despite the federal governments decision to drop the case, the state police department has and will remain committed to enhancing recruitment and hiring practices to ensure fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for all applicants, Butler said in a statement.

He said, moving forward, the agency will continue developing cutting-edge, up-to-date hiring selection processes including new written and physical tests.

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Our dedication to fostering a professional and inclusive workforce remains steadfast, and we will continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability, he said.

The federal governments case came after years of incidents and discrimination complaints involving troopers of color. Alexander and Coleman said that law enforcement agencies have long struggled to root out discriminatory hiring practices and mitigate unfair promotion and disciplinary practices.

Coleman said his group has had tremendous success working with Baltimore County Police to ensure the agency to improve conditions for officers of color. And hes hopeful that hell see similar results under Butler, the first Black leader of the state police. Butler was appointed in 2023 by Gov. Wes Moore, Marylands first Black governor.

We have the right people in place to make reforms in state government, said Coleman.

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President Donald Trumps administration is loosening restrictions on military airstrikes by giving commanders more autonomy to make lethal decisions, according to a U.S. defense official.

New rules allow high-ranking military officers to fire at targets without White House approval, as long as the targets previously received official terrorist designations, an official told Military Times.

The newly granted authority, the official said, is in part a response to the former administrations substantial involvement in approving strikes, which military leaders felt was outsized and led to slow response times for eliminating time-sensitive targets like terrorists.

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The Pentagon did not provide an official statement on the rule change. When reached by phone, the Defense Press Operations office directed Military Times to a post from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on the social platform X that said, Correct, in response to a CBS News article about the Trump administrations easing of rules on military airstrikes and special operation raids.

The loosening of rules comes amid a continued campaign to send American troops to the U.S.-Mexico border and an overall ramping up of counterterrorism efforts.

The Pentagon is in the process of sending roughly 3,000 more active-duty troops to the border, joining the already 9,200 troops currently stationed in the area.

On Jan. 20, Trump signed an executive order designating cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, a designation that  coupled with the new airstrike rules as explained by the U.S. defense official  allows military leaders to fire on them under a reduced chain of command.

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The Trump administration has openly embraced airstrikes, ordering many since the start of the presidents second term, and at times using social media to bring awareness to them.

U.S. Central Command carried out several strikes against the designated terrorist organization Hurras al-Din, a Syrian al-Qaida affiliate.

U.S. Africa Command also targeted Islamic State militants in Somalia multiple times, including in an operation Feb. 1 that Trump assumed responsibility for. On social media, Trump said he ordered a precision military air strike against ISIS-Somalia terrorists in the Golis mountains, Somaliland. He posted video footage of the airstrike to X on Feb. 3.
EL PASO, Texas (EL PASO MATTERS)  President Donald Trumps administration has paused a major renovation of the Bridge of the Americas international crossing in South-Central El Paso worth hundreds of millions of dollars, and local officials are uncertain about whether the project  in the works for years  will still happen.

The General Services Administration, the agency that handles federal real estate and contracts and is overseeing the reconstruction of BOTA, was set to submit a so-called record of decision for the project in early February, essentially a final approval. But the Trump administration placed a 45-day pause on the BOTA renovation and the environmental review that had been underway.

The GSAs plan was to award construction contracts in August, but the timeline now is unclear.

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On Feb. 3, to ensure immediate compliance with all issued executive orders, GSA placed a 45-day pause on all NEPA activities, including the Record of Decision for the (Bridge of the Americas port of entry) modernization project, a GSA spokesman said in an email. NEPA refers to the governments lengthy environmental analysis process that it conducts before constructing a project.

This short-term measure permits the new agency leadership to review existing draft documents and help direct any needed course corrections, the spokesman said.

The administrations 45-day pause isnt the only roadblock for the renovation of BOTA.

A separate lawsuit against federal agencies forced the GSA in mid-February to cancel the solicitation of contracts for the design and construction of BOTA. A court agreed with a group of plaintiffs who sued the federal government and argued that labor agreements for workers on federal projects that were mandated by former President Joe Bidens administration violated federal contracting laws.

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In light of the Courts decision, GSA will be conducting market research to assess the specific needs of this project related to the (labor agreement) and anticipates posting a new solicitation in the upcoming months, the GSA spokesman said. Well share more information on the BOTA LPOE modernization project as soon as were able.

What happens to $700 million BOTA allocation?

The pause and lawsuit have scrambled plans for the BOTA modernization project, which is meant to update the land port of entry for the first time since it was built in 1967. The project is funded by the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Congress passed in 2021 under Biden.

The fact is that we dont know whats going to happen with the $700 million that were allocated to GSA for the Bridge of the Americas, said Omar Martinez, assistant director with the city who is in charge of federal and grant policy. The GSA allocated $700 million to modernize BOTA, but the estimated cost range for the project is between $474 million and $579 million.

Regardless of what happens to the Bridge of the Americas, the city of El Paso is prioritizing the expansion and modernization of the Ysleta -Zaragoza port of entry, Martinez said Wednesday during a meeting at the El Paso Zoo with nonprofit and private sector leaders about climate change.

Truck enter the American inspection area after crossing the Zaragoza Bridge from Juarez into El Paso. (Luis Torres/El Paso Matters)

In a briefing with reporters Feb. 12, U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, said she was very concerned about the status of federal funding El Paso recently secured either through grants or through legislation such as the infrastructure bill.

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We are seeing Republicans trying to seize that money, basically freeze it and take it away from communities across the country, Escobar said.

Right now, we are in a wait and see posture on much of this, she said. As far as we know, the Bridge of the Americas funding is status quo, meaning theres been no change. We havent heard of anything any different, but we are keeping a close watch on that.

Looming over the BOTA project is the specter of major staffing and funding cuts at GSA, as the Trump administration has sought in recent weeks to slash spending and fire employees at numerous federal agencies.

The White House couldnt be reached for comment.

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The GSAs recently-appointed administrator has announced plans to slash the agencys spending in half by significantly lowering GSAs nearly 13,000-person workforce, terminating leases and selling some of its real estate holdings, according to reporting by Federal News Network. Its not clear how many GSA employees are based in El Paso or how those cuts will affect GSA personnel here.

Environmental justice, DEI add to commercial truck ban debate

Another major factor in the reconstruction of BOTA is that, after its completion, the GSA has planned to ban commercial trucks from crossing at the bridge, where roughly 700 diesel big-rigs cross to and from Mexico every day.

Trucks enter the United States from Juarez on the Bridge of the Americas. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Residents in the Chamizal neighborhood adjacent to the bridge for years have said the trucks spew pollution and particulate matter throughout the residential area, taking a big toll on the health of area residents.

They called on federal officials to force semi trucks to cross the border elsewhere, and seemingly notched a win when the GSA said last year its preferred option was to halt cargo trucks from crossing at BOTA going forward.

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For business groups and companies here tied to trade, stopping cargo trucks from crossing at BOTA is highly controversial and would likely lead to longer routes to other international bridges and higher transport costs.

The phrase environmental justice appears over 100 times in a document that details the BOTA project and explains why the GSA said it preferred to ban trucks from crossing at the bridge.

Trump, however, issued an executive order in January that targets for elimination environmental justice programs and policies, part of the administrations deprioritization of initiatives that fall under the broad scope of diversity, equity and inclusion.

The Jan. 20 executive order calls for agency heads to send a list to the White Houses Office of Management and Budget of agency or department DEI, DEIA, or environmental justice positions, committees, programs, services, activities, budgets, and expenditures.

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Eduardo Calvo, executive director of the El Paso Metropolitan Planning Organization, said transportation-related projects that require any federal approvals now have to be reviewed by Trump administration lawyers in Washington, D.C., in addition to reviews by staff at regional offices.

Its an extra layer of scrutiny that could delay some projects that are federally funded, he said.

Calvo acknowledged that projects with a focus on addressing issues related to equity or diversity may be canceled by the Trump administration.

We do know that there are certain keywords that are going to be flagged, he said. The MPO will try to work on dealing with this to ensure our projects move, that they dont get stalled because theres one word that shouldnt be there.

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Cemelli de Aztlan is one of the key Chamizal residents who, for years, has highlighted the concentration of pollution in South-Central El Paso and organized to get trucks banned from crossing at BOTA.

She said her group  Familias Unidas del Chamizal  expected that the Trump administration could change the course of the BOTA renovation.

Pushing trucks to Ysleta-Zaragoza, Tornillo bridges

Regardless of what the federal government does, however, she said local governments in El Paso should focus on convincing the Mexican government to invest more on roads on the Mexican side of the Marcelino Serna Port of Entry in Tornillo, so that the crossing can handle more truck traffic.

Cemelli de Aztlan of Familias Unidas del Chamizal at a meeting in 2023 said that the trucks are killing us, punto, as she presents a history of discrimination and environmental racism in south-central El Paso. The current proposed renovation and expansion of the Bridge of the Americas would not move commercial truck traffic, which already negatively impacts residents health, to a less populated area. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

And she welcomed the city investing to expand the Ysleta-Zaragoza bridge in the Lower Valley just off the Cesar Chavez Border Highway to handle additional trucks, especially those that could get routed away from BOTA.

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Add up how much theyre losing in tolls from all those trucks, said de Aztlan, who argued the city of El Paso could collect millions of dollars in additional revenue if commercial trucks crossed at the city-owned Ysleta-Zaragoza bridge instead of at the toll-free Bridge of the Americas.

This administration is concerned about tolls, tariffs and taxes. Thats an industry that is definitely not paying them, de Aztlan said, referring to firms that import or export products across BOTA.

On Tuesday, El Paso County Commissioners Court voted to send a letter to El Pasos congressional delegation  Escobar and Republican U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales  restating that El Paso County prefers to see truck traffic banned from BOTA to alleviate pollution near the bridge.

This is an unprecedented expenditure thats coming to our community and an unprecedented opportunity to do the right thing when it comes to the negative impacts that the trucks are causing, Precinct 2 Commissioner David Stout said. We want to make sure this project happens, first of all, and that it is the best possible outcome for our community.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Pete Marocco, deputy administrator-designate at the U.S. Agency for International Development, will meet with members of Congress on Wednesday to discuss foreign assistance, two sources familiar with the plan said on Monday.

Marocco will use the "round table" with Democrats and Republicans on the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee to provide an update on the review and reorganization of foreign aid by Republican President Donald Trump's administration.

Thousands of staff have been put on leave and contractors terminated at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) since Trump began his second term in January, with Trump's billionaire adviser Elon Musk leading a push to shrink the federal government.

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Democratic members of Congress, and a few of Trump's fellow Republicans, have raised concerns that the foreign aid cuts could lead to hunger, illness and death around the globe, while also diminishing U.S. influence.

Critics also say it is illegal for the administration to freeze aid and cut USAID without notifying and consulting Congress. Related lawsuits are making their way through the courts.

Spokespeople for the U.S. State Department and Representative Brian Mast, the Florida Republican who chairs the Foreign Affairs Committee, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; additional reporting by Jonathan Landay and Daphne Psaledakis; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
(NewsNation)  The recent Oval Office spat between Presidents Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy is raising serious questions about the future of the U.S.-Ukraine alliance.

In a social media post Monday, Trump admonished Zelenskyy for saying the end of its war with Russia is still very, very far away.

The president called the comment the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy and added that America will not put up with it for much longer!

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Waltz likens Zelenskyy to an ex-girlfriend after Oval Office spat

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard said there is a rift in the countries relationship and accused Zelenskyy of standing against freedom.

Many of these European countries who are coming to Zelenskyys side as he walked out of the White House saying basically that they are going to support him in continuing this war, and that they dont stand with us around these fundamental values of freedom, Gabbard said on Fox News Sunday.

National security adviser Mike Waltz and House Speaker Mike Johnson have also joined a growing chorus of Republicans who think Ukraine might be better off finding a new leader.

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Something has to change. Either he needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country to do that, Johnson told NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday.

On Breitbarts radio show, Waltz likened Zelenskyy to an ex-girlfriend who brings up old issues rather than focusing on the future.

No, look, hes clearly solely focused on believing he needs to fact-check and correct every nuance, Waltz said.

GOP lawmakers divided on Trump-Zelenskyy feud

But some Republican lawmakers, such as Sens. James Lankford, R-Okla., and Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, have dissented from their partys approval of Fridays meeting.

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On Saturday, Murkowski lamented the situation on social media: I am sick to my stomach as the administration appears to be walking away from our allies and embracing Putin, a threat to democracy and U.S. values around the world.

Lankford, R-Okla., said it was inappropriate for senators to call for Zelenskyy to resign and predicted that such a move would spiral Ukraine into chaos right now.

UK prime minister wont cancel Trump visit after Zelenskyy meeting

On the heels of the tense clash in the Oval Office, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly paused all U.S. Cyber Command actions against Russia indefinitely  including possible digital offensives by the Pentagon.

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This comes as Moscow celebrates the White Houses position. A Kremlin spokesperson said the Trump administrations new approach aligns with Russias vision.

Zelenskyy thanks US after Trump altercation

For his part, Zelenskyy seems to be trying to get things back on track.

During a summit with European leaders in London over the weekend, Zelenskyy recommitted to signing a rare earth minerals deal with the U.S. That deal was originally meant to go public during Fridays White House visit.

Ukrainian president thanks Trump, US on X day after heated meeting

Zelenskyy also stressed Ukraines gratitude to the U.S., writing on social media Sunday:

We are very grateful to the United States for all the support. Im thankful to President Trump, Congress for their bipartisan support, and American people. Ukrainians have always appreciated this support, especially during these three years of full-scale invasion.

UK summit drafts peace plan for Ukraine

At Saturdays summit, European leaders bolstered support for Ukraine and drafted a ceasefire plan for presentation to the U.S.

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer also promised a $2 billion deal to fund air-defense missiles for Ukraine.

Because my reaction was we have to bridge this, we have to find a way that we can all work together because in the end weve had three years of bloody conflict now, we need to get to that lasting peace, Starmer told the BBC.

Early chatter of a peace deal involves a temporary truce lasting around one month, but how soon that deal could come  and if it will include security guarantees  remains uncertain.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
The United States is preparing a proposal to potentially ease sanctions on Russia as President Donald Trump works to restore diplomatic ties and negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine, a U.S. official and another source familiar with the discussions told Reuters.

The White House has directed the State and Treasury departments to compile a list of sanctions that could be lifted. U.S. officials plan to use this list in upcoming talks with Russian representatives as part of a broader strategy to improve economic and political relations with Moscow.

Sanctions officials are now drafting a proposal that would remove restrictions on specific Russian individuals and entities, including oligarchs, the sources said.

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While internal government offices routinely prepare such options, the White Houses direct request signals a serious consideration of sanctions relief as part of a potential agreement with the Kremlin.

The administration has not specified what it expects in return.

Read also: 6 silver linings of the Trump-Zelensky showdown

Trump has moved quickly to shift U.S. policy on Russia. He called Russian President Vladimir Putin on Feb. 12, then sent U.S. representatives to meet with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

In January, Trump had warned that he would increase sanctions if Moscow refused to negotiate an end to the war. However, members of his administration have since acknowledged the possibility of lifting economic restrictions.

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Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in a Feb. 20 interview with Bloomberg Television, suggested that Russia could see sanctions relief depending on its approach to negotiations. Trump himself told reporters on Feb. 26 that easing sanctions remained an option.

The White House requested a potential sanctions relief plan before Trump extended a state of emergency last week over the war in Ukraine, the sources said. The state of emergency, first imposed in 2014 after Russia annexed Crimea, allows the U.S. government to sanction individuals and organizations involved in the war.

Despite Russias ability to sustain a wartime economy through increased military spending and industrial production, experts say it remains vulnerable and in need of Western relief.

The Kremlin has expressed interest in economic cooperation, particularly in rare earth metals. Putin recently suggested potential collaboration with the U.S. in that sector.

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Trump has also sought a minerals deal with Ukraine, which has significant lithium and rare earth metal reserves, as a way to offset the billions of dollars in American aid. However, his meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky on Feb. 28 ended without an agreement.

Read also: Fallout from the Zelensky-Trump meeting. Whats next for Ukraine?  spot briefing by KI Insights

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
President Donald Trump has highlighted our broken federal disaster system and the urgent need for states to lead. As former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives and executive director of the largest national coalition of flood-impacted communities and elected officials, we agree.

With the Southeast staring down a decade-long recovery from Hurricane Helene and Los Angeles still on fire, hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars hang in the balance. Its time for a new playbook.

Our combined experience  leading the Florida House of Representatives and running the top adaptation nonprofit in the country  present a roadmap for the immediate and longer-term steps for the Trump Administration and 119th Congress to fix our broken disaster recovery system and usher in a safer, more prosperous America:

(From L-R) Sprowls, Roberts

Cut waste by streamlining access to disaster aid

Towns in western North Carolina were without water for over a month after Helene. Peoples homes and livelihoods in California have gone up in flames. At the worst moment in their lives, they shouldnt be bounced between different agency websites and long wait times. Instead, they should upload their information one time, in one place, and receive relief so they can rebuild. Congress should pass commonsense proposals, like the bipartisan Disaster Survivors Fairness and Disaster Assistance Simplification Acts, to cut federal red tape and fix the process.

End pointless delays that stall recovery

After a disaster, states and communities dont need bureaucratic headaches. But thats the reality with the U.S. Housing and Urban Developments Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program. Right now, they have to wait for HUD to write new rules for every disaster, holding up resources for years. State and local governments need clear, consistent rules with flexibility to rebuild as they see fit. There are over 60 members of the new Department of Government Efficiency Caucus committed to a lean federal government. They should start streamlining government and empowering states by permanently authorizing the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program.

The Publix at the Avenir development that was near completion was heavily damaged after a tornado spawned from Hurricane Milton on October 10, 2024 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Harness American technology to respond smarter

The federal government verifies disaster damage the same way it did 50 years ago: sending Washington, D.C., bureaucrats to complete tedious assessments. We have satellites orbiting hundreds of miles above Earth that can detect blades of grass, but after a hurricane, our government asks communities to give geocoordinates of every downed tree. Congress should direct the Federal Emergency Management Agency to harness private sector technology to ensure faster, more accurate damage assessments that do right by survivors and taxpayers.

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Opinion: Lawmakers want to block FEMA aid to California. This is completely un-American.

Defend our national security

America is the worlds greatest military superpower, but our dominance is threatened by our adversaries and disasters. Luckily Trumps administration is employing new thinking and has the talent to empower a top federal official housed in the National Security Council focused on hardening our military and critical infrastructure. In Florida, for example, the governor appointed a strong leader to make residents safer and stretch tax dollars further.

Damage from a tornado spurred by Hurricane Milton at the Windgate community in Palm Beach Gardens at about 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2024.

While the administration and Congress should move right away on these immediate wins, we should also seize the following, longer-term opportunities:

Unleash state leadership

Trump is right  states should lead disaster response and recovery. States know how to direct federal funds, work with local leaders on shared priorities and recover better prepared for the next disaster. Florida, South Carolina and Texas have taken the reins in managing disasters. Congress has already drafted bipartisan legislation that would give states flexibility, funding and accountability to lead. Congress should seize on this wave of change, put states in charge and get legislation passed.

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Editorial: Trumps threats to end FEMA are senseless. Florida needs it.

Eliminate redundant programs

The federal bureaucracy has ballooned to 30-plus entities owning parts of disaster recovery, all with different definitions and requirements. The complexity is staggering and only benefits highly paid consulting firms that help wealthy states and communities navigate the maze. We need to dramatically reduce the number of federal cooks in the kitchen. Congress has done it before  In 2012, it consolidated an unwieldy system of 90 transportation programs down to just 30 with reforms focused on efficiency, effectiveness and accountability. Congress should do the same with disaster programs.

Bet on American innovation by establishing a national lab for resilience

Right now, were lagging behind the world on disaster research and development. In addition to hurting communities at home, were ceding ground to Europe and China. American innovators should be leading the world in developing new technologies and strategies to prepare for and respond to disasters. By establishing a National Lab focused on solutions needed at home, the Trump administration can reclaim American leadership in this key arena.

By following this roadmap, and Trumps leadership, Congress can seize a once-in-a-generation window to overhaul our broken, business-as-usual approach to disasters. As more Americans are impacted by these tragedies, we know its possible to make the system leaner, more efficient and accountable. Now is the time to do just that. Americans are counting on it.

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Chris Sprowls, a Republican, is the former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives. Melissa Roberts is executive director of the American Flood Coalition. This opinion piece was originally published by the Tampa Bay Times and distributed by The Invading Sea website (www.theinvadingsea.com).

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Trump is right: Let Florida handle disaster relief efforts | Opinion
Rep. Elise Stefanik, the New York Republican whom President Trump has nominated to serve as ambassador to the United Nations, blasted the international group as a deep den of antisemitism that is infected with hate and moral rot, during a speech at an Anti-Defamation League summit in New York City on Monday.

We know the United Nations is indeed a deep den of antisemitism  infected with the same rampant anti-Israel and anti-American hate and moral rot that has polluted Americas higher education system, Stefanik said. Especially since the barbaric Hamas attacks of October 7, the UN has continuously betrayed Israel, betraying America in the process, acting instead as an apologist for Iran and Irans terrorist proxies.

Stefanik, who chaired the House Republican Conference until January, is awaiting Senate confirmation to the U.N. post. The vote on her appointment, which is expected to easily pass the Republican-held upper chamber, has been put on ice because of the GOPs razor-thin majority in the House. Some Republicans see Stefaniks reliably Trump-aligned vote as crucial to fast-tracking the presidents agenda.

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Career diplomat Dorothy Shea is temporarily holding the title of charge daffaires to the U.N. until a permanent appointee is confirmed.

Stefanik, who chaired the House Republican Conference from 2021 to January, has been a vocal critic of antisemitism amid the ongoing war in Gaza, particularly on university campuses.

She drew some jeers during her ADL address when she appeared to blame the Biden administration for Hamas deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

I believe its quite obvious to the world that if President Trump had remained in office, October 7th would never have happened, she said to audible boos from the crowd. He has brought his pro-Israel policies to the White House.

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Stefaniks comments come after the U.S. voted against a resolution that condemned Russia for its invasion of Ukraine three years ago. The U.S. unsuccessfully sought a modified resolution calling for an end to the conflict without blaming Russia. The vote against the final resolution put the U.S. in the company of Russia, China, Israel and 14 other countries.

Stefanik touted the Trump administrations ongoing support of Israel and said the White House is working to redirect the course of history away from the antisemitism and the anti-Israel bias.

Let me be clear, everyday Americans understand the need to support Israels fight, and that the same pro-Hamas terror sympathizers who chant Death to Israel also chant Death to America, she said. These terrorists want to topple Israel, topple the US, and we must never yield.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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For two months, hundreds of workers have cleared smoldering, toxic ashes in Altadena, California, removing what remains of a historic Black neighborhood. All the while, many dont know how much longer theyll be in the country.

Since Hurricane Katrina, undocumented immigrants have been the backbone of Americas disaster recovery system, trailing natures fury from hurricanes to wildfires. Yet, despite their crucial role, they often face exploitation, unsafe conditions, deportation, and even death.

The growing need for disaster recovery underscores how migrant and Black communities are interconnected. Black neighborhoods have been destroyed and disproportionately hit by these disasters. Yet they also struggle to access the funds and jobs related to recovery. With Black workers making up just 6% of the construction industry, these long-standing barriers worsen after disasters.

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Now, as California and other states rebuild from the recent record number of disasters, the Trump administration is threatening mass immigration raids. Experts warn that cracking down on immigrant labor could stall reconstruction and leave Black communities like Altadena even more vulnerable to extreme weather, especially without a plan to grow the American workforce.

Their absence leaves Black communities and other marginalized groups in unstable housing for extended periods, drives up the price of affordable housing, and makes recovery even less accessible, said Chauncia Willis, CEO of the Institute for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Management.

To address these gaps, experts and community leaders are advocating for protecting immigrant workers and improving access for Black workers.

This looks like targeted training programs, improved access to capital for Black contractors, and policies that integrate Black-owned businesses into disaster recovery projects. At the same time, safeguarding the predominantly foreign-born restoration workforce is essential to ensure that heightened deportation raids do not stall recovery efforts, disaster victims and housing experts told Capital B. Together, these initiatives could transform disaster recovery into a more inclusive and resilient sector that not only rebuilds homes but also strengthens communities.

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I cant think of a natural disaster where undocumented labor wasnt the driving force behind recovery, whether acknowledged or not, said Andrew Barley, who is the co-director of rebuild efforts at West Street Recovery, a Houston-based nonprofit group that helps communities rebuild after disasters.

Making up anywhere from 25% to 40% of the disaster recovery workforce, undocumented workers tarp and repair roofs, knock down moldy, water-clogged walls, and clear charred debris and fallen trees from homes. Then, while sleeping in trucks or tents, they rebuild entire neighborhoods under the table for disaster-recovery firms.

Mario Mendoza, an undocumented worker who has been doing disaster recovery work since Hurricane Katrina, remembers seeing dead bodies in the New Orleans homes he was hired to gut clean  and the bosses who refused to pay him. Weve been the line of support for cities after disasters, he told the Associated Press in January, speaking in Spanish.

Andrew Barley (left), co-director of rebuild efforts at Houston-based West Street Recovery, stands with other community members who help teach local residents home building skills. (Courtesy of West Street Recovery)

By limiting the current labor workforce and making it harder for new workers to join, the current administration is making it easier [for communities] to be washed or burned off the map, Barley added.

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Were sucking all the skilled labor out of our communities with a lot of what the whats been proposed at the federal level: whether its trying to dismantle [the Federal Emergency Management Agency], scaring skilled construction labor from coming out, or not allowing Black workers to enter the field, he said.

Targeted training programs and improved access to capital could greatly benefit Black contractors and workers in disaster recovery by providing them with certifications, expertise, and business tools to win contracts and lead rebuilding efforts, explained Willis.

Low-interest loans, microgrants, and public-private investment funds would help small, Black-owned recovery firms to purchase necessary equipment and hire skilled labor, allowing them to compete and expand their operations. As this happens, partnerships with trade unions and industry groups would offer access to stable, well-paying jobs. Historically, Black workers, who make up only 2% of workers in construction unions, have been locked out of trade unions and industry groups.

Read More: How Black workers got locked out of constructions best jobs

To alleviate these historic inequities, she said, its crucial to prioritize workforce development, give Black-owned firms preference when awarding contracts, and reform procurement policies to ensure that Black contractors and minority workers get a fair share of recovery contracts.

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Simultaneously, given just how often destructive climate and weather events are battering the country, it will be impossible to rebuild without an all-hands-on-deck approach.

If undocumented workers are removed from rebuilding efforts, we will see severe consequences for disaster recovery, Willis said.

President Donald Trump deported 37,660 people during his first month in office, which is far less than the monthly average of 57,000 deportations in the last full year of the Biden administration. But fears are widespread. In states like Florida, heightened immigration enforcement and the looming threat of mass deportations have already hampered recovery efforts, as strict new laws have compelled many immigrant workers to leave essential jobs.

What needs to be done to improve efforts

Critics, including Trump, have dismissed climate change as a hoax and accused immigrants of displacing Black workers. Yet, data indicates that immigrant labor bolsters economic growth and creates opportunities for U.S.-born workers.

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And there is nothing but opportunity in disaster recovery and resilience work. In 2023, the U.S. endured a record 28 climate disasters, each exceeding $1 billion in damages. The past 12 months were even worse.

Industry analysts say America needs to bring in roughly 455,000 new construction workers in 2025 on top of normal hiring trends to meet demand. However, with small, family-run businesses largely being overpowered by private-equity firms eager to capitalize on steady funding from insurers and FEMA, the workforce has tightened.

Ultimately, as the debate over immigration policy and labor rights intensifies, the challenge remains to balance national recovery needs with increasing the labor force and protecting the workers who risk everything to restore communities in the wake of disaster.

Darryl Chapman and his niece, Ashely, spent years replacing roofs and walls across Lake Charles, Louisiana, following two hurricanes in 2020. Rarely did they find Black clients or contractors despite the city being majority Black. (Adam Mahoney/Capital B)

In disaster recovery efforts, strengthening community resilience and improving opportunities for undocumented laborers and vulnerable Black communities requires fostering collaboration across different classes and races, Barley said. Every year, after the several disasters that hit southeast Texas, his organization teaches community members basic home repair and recovery skills, such as drywall work, texture painting, mold treatment, and drying out homes.

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Im seeing people build relationships with each other across class and race, and talk to each other to figure out solutions to that after these experiences, he said. This helps break down long-standing barriers and facilitates shared solutions to one of the countrys most pressing challenges.

West Street Recovery pays these community members for their newly acquired skills to help rebuild homes, empowering them and keeping these valuable skills within the neighborhood. It helps residents overcome some of the barriers larger companies and organizations put up to enter construction and recovery work. Grassroots fundraising and resource-sharing efforts have been crucial in this process, with individuals increasingly preparing to lean on their neighbors more and more in the face of potential government failure.

But to create more widespread disaster preparedness and response efforts like this means ensuring that resources  such as workers, materials, and funding  are adequately allocated to enable thoughtful and equitable rebuilding, said Carlos Martin, the director of the Remodeling Futures Program at the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies.

He said that anticipating the needs of diverse communities, including renters, homeowners, and those with vulnerable housing, is critical to effective disaster recovery. Because of the constant onslaught of destruction and the need for workers, we have to be prepared in all our communities to think about how we will welcome new workers and laborers as permanent parts of our communities.

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A disaster throws that all into a tailspin, right? Because some of those original firms, the builders and workers, arent there anymore, and theyre dealing with their own personal crises, he said.

This also means that large construction firms need to stop keeping Black people out of trade unions, and need to offer fair pay and safety measures for rebuilders, Martin said. After repeatedly being exposed to asbestos, lead, and mold  the most common toxins found in post-disaster worksites  workers often report debilitating illnesses.

The widespread destruction across the nation demands a professionally trained and large workforce, Willis said, and removing an entire generation of restoration workers wont magically create a new one.

The wildfires, hurricanes, or deportations impacting people across the nation might be happening to you today, but it doesnt mean it cant be me tomorrow.

The post Trumps Anti-Immigrant Policies Undermine Recovery in Black Disaster Zones appeared first on Capital B News.
ROME  A longstanding acquaintance and former employee of Donald Trump who has taken on the title of U.S. special envoy to Italy is pushing for America to enter the Euro-Japanese GCAP fighter plane program.

The unusual proposal was made by Paolo Zampolli, a Italian former New York model agency manager who introduced President Trump to his wife Melania in 1998 and worked for a period as a real estate manager for Trump.

A frequent guest at the presidents Mar a Lago residence in Florida, Zampolli is also ambassador to the UN for the Caribbean island of Dominica.

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In a Feb. 22 interview with Italian newspaper Il Giornale, Zampolli said he had been appointed by Trump as his special envoy to Italy days earlier.

The other day, the president, in front of ten people, suddenly pointed at me and asked me to be a special envoy, he said.

He is always very busy and quick. He says a few words and solves problems, he added.

Last week, Zampolli was back in his home country, holding meetings with senior government officials including Italian deputy prime minster, Matteo Salvini.

After the meeting, Salvini posted on X that he had had a cordial and constructive meeting at the ministry with Paolo Zampolli, special envoy to Italy chosen by Donald Trump.

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He added, It was an occasion to confirm the excellent relations with the new U.S. administration and reinforce the economic and commercial ties between the two countries.

During an interview on prime time Italian TV with Italys best known TV host, Bruno Vespa, Zampolli said he would focus on defense industry ties between Italy and the United States.

In a phone interview with Defense News, Zampolli said he had been discussing the idea of the U.S. entering the tri-nation Global Combat Air Programme, which groups the U.K., Italy and Japan.

As the U.S. focuses on its own concepts for the sixth generation fighter, Zampolli said a unified program, was a very wise idea since it would save funds for both the U.S. and the U.K., Italy and Japan.

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He added, If you want to get a plane done, it is better to work together.

He said, If you want a new plane you need the U.S.

Zampolli said the idea had not come from President Trump. I have not discussed this with the president, he said, adding, Its an early conversation.

But he said it would work for everybody.

Zampolli added that after discussing the idea during his meetings in Italy, people want to look into it.

In December, the British, Japanese and Italian firms partnered on the GCAP fighter announced the launch of a joint venture dedicated to the program which will be headquartered in London.

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The firms will work with the U.K.-based program office which teams the three government customers to get the fighter in service by 2035.

In the U.S., both the Air Force and Navy are working on sixth-generation fighter programs.

Asked for its views on Zampollis proposal that the U.S. enter the GCAP program to promote savings, U.S. warplane maker Lockheed Martin told Defense News:

Lockheed Martin stands ready to help our customers achieve their national security missions. Questions regarding GCAP as a trilateral government program are best directed to the respective governments involved.

Zampollis mission to Italy took some Italian politicians by surprise.

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Asked about him by reporters, Italys foreign minister and second deputy prime minister, Antonio Tajani, said, Zampolli who?

Asked about the precise nature of Zampollis areas of responsibility, the U.S. Embassy in Rome referred the question to the White House press office, which has been contacted for response by Defense News.
President Donald Trump lashed out at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy once again Monday as continued U.S. support for the countrys efforts to defend itself from Russias invasion looked in jeopardy.

In the aftermath of the pairs extraordinary bust-up at the White House on Friday, Trump doubled down on his criticism of Zelenskyy after Ukraines wartime leader sought to build a stronger alliance with other world leaders.

In a Monday post on Truth Social, Trump appeared to have taken umbrage at comments Zelenskyy made over the weekend about a deal to end the war between Ukraine and Russia being still very, very far away.

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This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Trump said in the post, which included a screengrab of an Associated Press report on Zelenskyys comments.

He added, It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.

Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking? he continued.

The outburst comes as Trump will reportedly discuss the possible suspension or complete cancellation of military aid to Ukraine with key advisers.

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The New York Times reported the president will meet with top national security advisers Monday, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, for a briefing on Ukraine, where a range of options will be considered, including backing away from the final shipments of ammunition and equipment agreed by the Biden administration.

Meanwhile, Zelenskyy is meeting with King Charles III for talks in London as Europe rallies around Ukraines leader, who said Sunday he hopes that the countrys relationship (with the U.S.) will continue.

Its more than an occasional relationship, he added.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron, Frances president, are leading efforts to pull together a new peace plan to present to Trump, who is said to be expecting an apology from Zelenskyy following the Oval Office blowup.

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The remarkable shakeup of the geopolitical landscape follows Trump making overtures toward Russian President Vladimir Putin two weeks ago, when he labeled Zelenskyy a dictator and falsely suggested Ukraine started the war with Russia.

Then, during the shocking Oval Office exchange last week, Trump and Vice President JD Vance called Zelenskyy disrespectful, accused him of not being thankful for U.S. support, and told him he has no cards with which to negotiate a deal to end the incursion of his country by Russia. The White House then canceled a scheduled press conference, and the Ukrainian president left the building without signing an expected rare minerals agreement.

Trump Lashes Out At Fake News Ukraine Criticism

Until his latest attack, the president had said little on Ukraine since putting out a statement following the controversial meeting. In the statement, he said that Zelenskyy is not ready for peace if America is involved.

Over the weekend, Trump wrote on Truth Social that we should spend less time worrying about Putin and focus instead on cracking down on illegal migration so that we dont end up like Europe!

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On Monday morning, Trump was more direct, claiming he is the only U.S. president who has not given any Ukrainian land to Russia.

The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is President Donald J. Trump, he wrote on Truth Social. Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticize, and the Fake News gladly puts out anything they say!

Russia annexed Crimea, part of Ukraine, after invading the region in 2014 when Barack Obama was president.

Trumps outriders have signaled there may be little scope to patch up the relationship with Zelenskyy.

Elon Musk, Trumps billionaire aide, on Monday backed calls for the U.S. to leave NATO, a move that would undermine hopes of an American security guarantee for Ukraine.

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Musk backed a post on social media from Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) to leave Nato following Zelenskyy attending a security summit in London with other world leaders on Sunday.

Musk, who runs the cost-cutting Department of Government Efficiency, also posted that same day: What I said over two years ago was that Ukraine should seek peace or suffer severe loss of life for no gains. The latter was Zelenskys choice. Now he wants to do that again. This is cruel and inhumane.

Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) suggested Zelenskyy may need to step aside in order for Ukraine-Russia peace agreements to happen.

Zelesnkyy Hopes To Still Sign Minerals Deal

For his part, Zelenskyy said Sunday that he remains ready to sign the under-threat deal with the U.S. over Ukraines mineral deposits in a thread on X, formerly called Twitter.

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An agreement over rare earth minerals is seen as crucial to keeping the Trump administration engaged in the war, with the president able to hail a victory for American taxpayers. Ukraine would likely get more protection from the U.S. with American workers on Ukrainian soil, though this falls short of the security guarantees sought by Zelenskyy.

Ukraines president also seems to have gotten the message about his supposed lack of gratitude. In a video message Sunday night, he said that we are grateful for all the support we have received from the United States.

There hasnt been a single day when we havent felt grateful, he added.

Europe Eyes Coalition Of The Willing

With Trumps next move unclear, Europe looked to fill the vacuum. During the London security summit on Sunday, 18 world leaders  mostly from Europe (although Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was also present)  met to thrash out a plan to work with Ukraine to end the war and defend the country from Russia.

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We are at a crossroads in history today, Starmer said following the summit, as he signaled a coalition of the willing would be needed to secure Ukraine after any ceasefire.

He also insisted that Europe must do the heavy lifting, but details on what that looks like remain scant. The British leader has promised that the United Kingdom will provide boots on the ground and planes in the air, while Macron has called on NATO members to spend between 33.5% of gross domestic product on defense.

Related...
(Bloomberg) -- President Donald Trump is bending Congress to his will, hobbling minority Democrats with an everything-at-once strategy and rallying fractious Republicans behind his politically risky tax cut plan and billionaire Elon Musks cost-cutting crusade.

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Thats the backdrop for Trumps scheduled address to Congress on Tuesday, five weeks into his second term and just over a week before a March 14 US funding deadline that would ordinarily serve as a point of political leverage for the opposition party.

But Democrats are squeamish about a disruptive government shutdown and struggling to stymie Trumps agenda, turning to the courts to blunt the effects of the presidents actions.

Its all a remarkable contrast to Trumps first term, when congressional Democrats were the face of an energetic resistance. Trump then failed to get Congress to rein in the burgeoning budget and expended political capital to wrangle his own party behind a tax cut bill. He and fellow Republicans also suffered the political fallout from two government shutdowns.

Now, however, an emboldened and experienced Trump benefits from a more compliant Congress, which has shrugged off legally dubious moves like unilaterally slashing the federal workforce and ending government contracts. His tax plan, which requires only a simple majority in both chambers, could be enacted as soon as May.

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Democrats are training their attacks on that plan, which uses deep cuts in safety-net programs such as Medicaid and food aid to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. But if Trumps momentum keeps apace, at least through the spring, Democratic pushback will likely amount to little more than a 2026 election attack.

Shutdown Deadline

Democrats have, for weeks, tried to leverage talks to avert a government shutdown to tie Musks hands. But while Republicans need their votes to keep the government open, Democrats political pragmatism weakens their hand.

Im not for shutting the government down, said Representative Rosa DeLauro, the top Democratic spending negotiator in the House.

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Others in the party  even those with large numbers of federal workers in their states  expressed similar defeatist sentiments.

Virginia Senator Tim Kaine said hed like the spending bill to include language to prevent large government layoffs. Whether that is practical I dont know, he said.

And Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen questioned whether Trump, who has ignored Congresss constitutional power of the purse, would even abide by any new legislative constraints to his power.

The emerging GOP plan ahead of March 14 in the House is a stopgap bill lasting to Sept. 30, essentially extending current funding to the end of the fiscal year.

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Theyll need to court Democrats in the Senate, where 60 votes are needed to overcome a filibuster.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said in television interviews Sunday that he will seek a clean stopgap spending bill and wait until fiscal 2026 to codify the DOGE cuts. Waiting would maintain the status quo and leave the legality of DOGE actions to the courts for now.

That stopgap bill without DOGE cuts would be especially hard for Senate moderate Democrats to vote against and risk triggering a shutdown.

Tax Cuts

On taxes, Congress is moving with much more rapidity to enact a plan than in 2017, giving businesses and individuals more lead time to adapt to looming changes.

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Trumps campaign proposals to expand breaks to end taxes on tips, overtime and Social Security, once considered wishful thinking, are even gaining momentum despite their costs.

Last weeks dramatic, down-to-the-wire vote on the $4.5 trillion House tax cut outline was a milestone in the GOPs evolution toward unity, with Trump quelling a rebellion from fiscal conservatives through a few last-minute phone conversations.

The budget plan would add nearly $3 trillion in deficits over 10 years and raise the debt ceiling by $4 trillion. Nonetheless spending hardliners voted for the compromise.

Its a new day, said conservative Ralph Norman of South Carolina.

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In the Senate, Republicans are eyeing a budget gimmick counting the extension of Trumps 2017 tax cuts as zero dollars because its current policy. That gives them ample room for even more breaks for businesses and individuals.

Johnson, who discussed the idea last week with Trump and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, would need to sell fiscal hawks on it. But several, like Texas Representative Chip Roy, have signaled theyd go along with it, in exchange for more spending cuts.

That could lift the $10,000 cap on the state and local tax deduction and end the estate tax, while stopping taxes on tips, overtime and Social Security benefits. Trump may even be able to convince Congress to go along with $5,000 stimulus checks he as floated.

North Dakota Senator John Hoeven said Trump is the most powerful president he has seen on budget matters.

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This is his second time around. Hes got the experience, Hoeven said, pointing to Trumps own lobbying push to get the House budget plan passed.

But it also plays into Democrats 2026 strategy, banking that cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, Pell Grants and other programs would be widely unpopular with voters, giving them an opportunity to take over congressional control. One Democratic political action committee, House Majority Forward PAC, is running ads in swing districts starting Monday on cuts to Medicaid, which insures nearly one-quarter of Americans.

Todays ad is just the beginning, and we will make sure every American knows exactly who is responsible, Mike Smith, the PACs president, said in a statement.

(Updates with Johnson comments beginning with 14th paragraph.)

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Author Michael Wolff offered his frank assessment on Donald Trumps Oval Office tirade against Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday, claiming the U.S. president has no one he listens towhich could complicate plans to broker peace.

Wolff told Sky News that where Zelensky erred stemmed from Trumps own insecurities, saying the president often verbally steamrolls people who disagree with him. The two world leaders clashed on Friday over the U.S.s support for Ukraine, causing Trump to claim Zelensky was ungrateful and eventually kick him out of the White House.

During a segment on Sunday, Sky News host Trevor Phillips asked Wolff who Trump listens to for advice. Wolff was blunt: No one matters to Donald Trump.

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I say this without equivocation, Wolff said. I mean, there is, there is no one he turns to, no one he listens to. And listens is very, this is very important point here, because he literally doesnt listen. Its as almost as though he doesnt have the capability of listening.

The Daily Beast has reached out to the White House for comment.

Wolff, who has authored multiple, books on Trumps presidency, including the recent All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America, said Zelensky angered Trump by telling him things he didnt enjoy hearing instead of placating the president.

Zelensky was trying to make a case, was trying to impart information that infuriates Donald Trump, Wolff said. Mostly, his way of dealing with that is to just never stop talking. Therefore nothing can there is no incoming to Donald Trump."

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So all of those people around him will have, at this point, understood that you just cant talk. You cannot say anything.

Wolffs sentiments came as multiple Trump advisers and allies blasted Zelensky on Sunday as ungrateful and suggested he should step down as president over his clash with Trump last week. Zelensky told Fox News on Friday that he would not apologize to Trump because he didnt believe he did anything wrong.

I respect the president and I respect American people he told Fox News Bret Baier. I think that we have to be very open and very honest, and Im not sure that we did something bad.

Trump has repeatedly hammered Wolffs reporting on him, most recently posting on TruthSocial that his latest book is a total FAKE JOB, just like the other JUNK he wrote.

He called me many times trying to set up a meeting, but I never called him back because I didnt want to give him the credibility of an interview, Trump said.
President Donald Trump on Monday has hit out again at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenksy by accusing the wartime leader of having no interest in a settlement to his countrys years-long fight against Russian invading forces after the Ukrainian president said he does not see the war ending for a long time.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform to attack Zelensky in a post claiming that the United States will not put up with his sentiments for much longer after Zelensky said he expects to maintain a relationship with the U.S. despite the his fraught relationship with Trump, which exploded in a meeting at the White House on Friday.

He told reporters in London that a deal to end the war is still very, very far away but said Kyivs relations with Washington will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship.

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I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America to keep defense assistance flowing, he said.

Trump turned on Zelensky during a meeting at the White House on Friday (AFP via Getty Images)

But Trump did not appear to agree, writing on his social media site that Zelenskys words represent the worst statement that could have been made by the Ukrainian leader.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing, said Trump, who referenced Zelenskys statement to world leaders in London that aid from America was necessary to continue his countrys fight against invading forces from Russia.

The American presidents latest broadside against his countrys putative ally comes just days after he and Vice President JD Vance berated Zelensky over his supposed lack of gratitude for the more than $100 billion in U.S. defense aid his nation has received since Russia began the latest phase of the war against Ukraine in February 2022.

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Zelensky, who had come to Washington on Friday to sign a mineral rights deal touted by the Trump administration, was asked to leave the White House after a media availability with Trump and his senior staff devolved into an Oval Office shouting match that ended with a vulgar, grievance-filled rant from President Donald Trump and taunts about Zelenskys supposed ingratitude from Vance.

Zelensky left the White House roughly an hour after the emotional eruption, cutting short talks that were supposed to cement an economic relationship between Washington and Kyiv and create a mechanism to repay the billions in American military aid that has been sent to Ukraine since 2022.

From there, Zelensky then jetted to London, where he received a warm reception from U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and was granted a coveted audience with King Charles III at Sandringham House, the monarchs private country estate in Norfolk.

Starmer pledged to develop a coalition of the willing to defend a deal in Ukraine and guarantee a peace settlement as part of a plan discussed by leaders at Lancaster House on Sunday, with outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in attendance.

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The prime minister also announced a 1.6 billion ($2.03bn) finance deal which will allow Ukraine to buy more than 5,000 missiles which will be made by French defense and aerospace giant Thales Group in Belfast.

The increased commitment to Ukraines defense from the U.K. and other western allies comes as Trump has moved to pivot the United States to a position in foreign policy spheres that appears to be aligned with Russia against the democracies of the west.

In a separate Truth Social post over the weekend, Trump wrote that Americans should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country.

But Trump declined to explicitly say whether he supports pausing American defense aid to Kyiv when addressing reporters at an event to mark new investment in American semiconductor manufacturing. He also declined to respond directly to a related query on his reaction to statements from the Kremlin alleging that Americas foreign policy is now aligned with Russias, though he mused aloud that it takes two to tango with respect to any agreement to end the war.

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You're going to have to make a deal with Russia, and you're going to have to make a deal with Ukraine. You're going to have to have the assent, and you're going to have to have the consent from the European nations, because I think that's important, and from us, I think everybody has to get into a room, so to speak, and we have to make a deal, and the deal can be made very fast. It should not be that hard a deal to make. It could be made very fast, he said.

He also told reporters that in his view, Zelensky should be more appreciative because America has stuck with them through thick and thin.

We have to make a deal because there are a lot of people being killed that shouldn't be killed, he added.
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The Beltway rumour is that, on his flight to DC, Zelensky was telephoned by Victoria Nuland, She-Wolf of the Donbass, plus Susan Rice and Anthony Blinken and advised to get tough with Trump. If true, that's gotta be the worst episode of "Phone-a-Friend" since the plucky little Ukrainian started playing Who Wants to Be a Billionaire (in Euros)? For all you nuanced diplomatists out there, there is now a rather arcane dispute as to whether Z called the Vice President of the United States a "bitch" or merely interjected "f**king hell":

He literally didn't. He said "suka blyat", which, like "kurwa mac" in Polish, is an expression of annoyance equivalent to "f**king hell". Not ideal politics, granted, but not the same.https://t.co/mOgGZN9iwh  Ben Sixsmith (@BDSixsmith) March 1, 2025

UPDATE! From Leonid in our comments section:

If the audio is not altered, it does sound like 'suka, blyad' which is akin to 'f**king piece of sh*t.' It is not necessarily directed at Vance personally, but I specifically translated this as 'f**king piece of sh*t', not 'f**king hell' because it can indeed be taken as directed at Vance, too. Obviously, even the milder reading doesn't absolve Z of being an a**hole.

The Ukrainian ambassador seemed to be the only member of Z's delegation who grasped how badly things were degenerating: the cameras captured her at one point with her head in her hands. The President booted the guy from the White House and gave the Ukrainian's lunch to the Oval Office interns. I have always found the American vernacular "oh, the guy totally ate my lunch" incredibly lame, but, if Trump is now proposing to make it literal, I wish he'd started with Keir Starmer. Fortunately, America's wanker media could be relied upon to agree that, when it comes to Z vs T, "the world" sides with Ukraine.

World opinion has been swift, loud and mostly unanimous against the childish behavior today of Trump and Vance. The only question now is if other countries realize that the USA they've long known, loved and respected is no longer a reliable ally.  Aaron Astor (@AstorAaron) February 28, 2025

By "world opinion", Mr Astor means not China, India, South Africa, Brazil or Saudi Arabia, but the Prime Minister of Luxembourg:

Luxembourg stands with Ukraine. You are fighting for your freedom and a rules based international order.   Luc Frieden (@LucFrieden) February 28, 2025

From the blissful ignorance of a California congressman:

My grandfather and the Greatest Generation didn't fight in World War II to see our country side with murderous thugs like Putin. This is a disgrace. https://t.co/3ZrB8ur2Au  Mike Levin (@MikeLevin) February 28, 2025

Er, in your extensive researches into World War Two, did you ever happen to come across a photograph of, say, the Yalta summit?

Still, if Luxembourgish prime ministers are going through one of their periodic butch phases, I prefer the words of Mr Frieden's predecessor, Jacques Poos, who a third-of-a-century back, as Yugoslavia was disintegrating, told the Yanks to butt out and declared "The hour of Europe has come!" He was right, kind of: shortly thereafter, Bosnian Serbs began tying Continental peacekeepers to trees.

Mr Frieden, like many other politicians and geopolitical experts, has failed to grasp the essential dynamic of yesterday's meeting - which is very simple:

Zelensky needs Trump far more than Trump needs Zelensky.

Without the Americans, Ukraine is in Jacques Poos territory: The hour of Europe has come. And how's that likely to go?

Victoria Nuland may still be on board, but her fellow World War Three cheerleader, Lindsey Graham, a man whom the Government of Ukraine inducted into the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise, is heading for the exits:

Today, President Trump gave a masterclass on how to stand up for America. pic.twitter.com/hekqo9j9TM  Lindsey Graham (@LindseyGrahamSC) February 28, 2025

As LBJ would say, if I've lost Lindsey, I've lost ...well, give me a minute, it'll come to me ...er, virtue-signalling doofuses who think if you post the Ukrainian flag as your Twitter avatar, the war is as good as won?

The war cannot be won. Ukraine is flush with western money and Nato weaponry, but, as JD Vance was obliged to point out, it has a massive lack of Ukrainians. If prolonging an unwinnable war will only accelerate your deathbed demography, then it's time to negotiate. And having Trump on board for that would be helpful.

But as Rumsfeld said: "You go to war with the army that you have." And now Zelensky will be going to war with the Prime Minister of Luxembourg and Ursula von der Leyen. The hour of Europe has come! The President of Ukraine was so oblivious to reality that, to be honest, I felt a bit sorry for him. It's not 2022 anymore:

Q: "Why don't you wear a suit?" Ukrainian President Zelenskyy: "I will wear costume after this war will finish." pic.twitter.com/FzJqjIAQHa  CSPAN (@cspan) February 28, 2025

So he's Ilsa in Casablanca: I've put that dress away. When the Germans march out, I'll wear it again.

And then, just as in the original, the American tells the European freedom fighter (Luc Frieden): "You know what? You can have her."

UPDATE! from the US Secretary of State:

Secretary of State Marco Rubio just gave one of the BEST interviews I have watched in defense of President Trump's Ukraine and Russia strategy. President Trump picked a seasoned media veteran like Rubio for moments like these, here is the full interview! pic.twitter.com/ETaBLVVUHE  Brigitte Gabriel (@ACTBrigitte) March 1, 2025

Mark's international bestseller America Alone: The End of the World as We Know It. If you haven't read the book during its first seventeen years, well, you're missing a treat. It's still in print in hardback and paperback. (Buy it at a 77% discount by clicking here or order in KINDLE edition at a 47% discount by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR)

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Mark Steyn is an international bestselling author, a Top 41 recording artist, and a leading Canadian human rights activist. Among his books is "The Undocumented Mark Steyn: Don't Say You Weren't Warned". (Buy it at a 49% discount by clicking here or order in KINDLE edition at a 67% discount by clicking here. Sales help fund JWR)
Amy Bolton was testing her microchip scanner on her cats when she noticed an unusual microchip number on her kitten, Purrl.

After researching, Bolton discovered Purrls microchip was no longer functional after a national company, Save This Life, unexpectedly shut down Feb. 11.

I knew it was a big deal, Bolton said.

With the sudden closure, thousands of pet owners like Bolton will have to re-register their pets microchip with a new company.

On Saturday, Boltons nonprofit, The Purrpose, will be running a microchip clinic for cats from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the All Feline Hospital, 2300 S. 48th St. In addition to microchipping pets, the clinic also will allow pet owners to re-enroll their chipped pets.

We are hoping that we can do a microchip every five minutes, Bolton said.

All cats must be in a carrier, and waiver forms must be completed. To schedule an appointment and sign the forms, visit ThePurrpose.org. Walk-ins will be accepted.

Microchipping will be free, though a $10 donation or nonperishable cat food item is recommended. Pet owners with more than five cats must have a current multi-cat permit. For those with 10 cats, there is a $50 fee.

Bolton founded The Purrpose in July to help improve community cat welfare in Lincoln. This year, she hopes to microchip 2,500 cats to help increase return rates.

A study from the American Veterinary Medical Association found that only 2% of cats in animal shelters were returned to their owners, but when they were microchipped, nearly 40% were returned home.

Carlee Fiddes, executive director of the Beatrice Humane Society, said they had 350 stray cats and kittens brought in last year. Of those, only two were microchipped and returned home, compared to their return rate over 65% for dogs.

We know that microchips work and that they matter, Fiddes said. Its just a matter of getting them into the cats, too.

About three years ago, Fiddes said she took in a surrendered cat from a rescue partner that would have otherwise been euthanized. After scanning for a microchip, Fiddes said they found the cats owners who had lost their pet seven years ago.

If it hadnt just been for sheer luck in us being able to scan that microchip and identify that, I dont know what his answer would have been, Fiddes said. Anytime we get a microchip into an animal, theyre just that much closer to making it back home again.

This isnt the first microchip clinic Fiddes has helped with, although this is the first cat-specific clinic.

We oftentimes end up with very dog-heavy microchip clinics, Fiddes said. I think that, in a way, actually discourages cat owners because to stand in line with your cat in a carrier while theres dogs barking and growling on both sides of you is probably a deterrent.

After learning that Save This Life shuttered abruptly, Bolton decided to team up with Fiddes to provide a drive-thru microchip scanning. If the chip is no longer registered, the humane society will offer free registration through its provider, 24PetWatch.

While its not clear how many pets in the Lincoln area have a Save This Life microchip, Bolton said All Feline Hospital has used the national company for a long time.

Microchips that start with 991 or 900164 are possible Save This Life microchips. Pet owners can also search for their microchips company through the American Animal Hospital Association.

When pets are microchipped, its the owners responsibility to register their details with the chip company so they can be contacted if the pet goes missing. Bolton said many owners skip this step, either because theyre unaware of it or because they dont want to pay the extra fee.

In Lincoln, most microchips cost between $20 and $35, with some companies requiring an additional registration fee of $20 to $30, or a subscription plan. By using 24PetWatch, pet owners wont have to pay a registration fee or buy a required subscription.

Bolton is hoping to microchip about 400 cats on Saturday.

Even the most loyal indoor animal will still have that chance of getting out, Bolton said. If someone picks up that cat and they can run that microchip, that cat is going to get home, one, with greater likelihood, but two, so much sooner.
Top Trump Cabinet secretaries and national security officials are holding meetings this week to discuss the administrations next steps on Ukraine  including the prospect of suspending military aid  following the spectacular collapse of Fridays Oval Office meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and national security adviser Mike Waltz, among others, planned to meet Monday as they map out how to move forward with peace talks, a Trump administration official and a State Department official told CNN.

Were going to have a broad discussion on whats next, Waltz told CNN on Monday.

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There was little evidence the ill will between Washington and Kyiv was waning three days after the Oval Office blow up. Trump and top advisers continued to harshly criticize Zelensky for his demeanor and outlook on the war, refusing to rule out the notion he should resign.

I just think he should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin, Trump told reporters in the Roosevelt Room on Monday when asked what it would take to revive a rare earths mineral deal.

Earlier, Trump slammed Zelenskys remarks to reporters that the end to the war is still very, very far away.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Trump posted on Truth Social. [T]his guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?

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Trumps stance, not for the first time in recent weeks, seemed close to the Kremlins.

Earlier on Monday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov suggested that someone must force Zelensky to change his position, adding, someone must make Zelensky want peace.

Zelenskys latest comments to rile the president came at the end of a gathering of Western leaders, without Trump, in London, where the US traditional allies including Britain, France and Canada made clear they remain staunchly supportive of Zelensky and are on a very different page to the US president.

Officials said they wanted to see a public apology with expression of regret from Zelensky before they could resume talks on the mineral deal that was scrapped after the Oval Office debacle.

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Behind closed doors, Trump aides were considering how to get both Russia and Ukraine to agree to a potential ceasefire and how to end long-range strikes, including on critical energy infrastructure, the administration official said.

Also on the table were questions over whether the Trump administration will pause funding for Ukraine committed by the Biden administration, something Trump officials have flirted with even before the president took office. No decisions had been made Monday morning on halting American assistance, but Trump suggested his patience was wearing thin.

Obviously when youre trying to assess how to move forward, you wont exclude options. All options are a matter of discussion, the official said.

I just think he should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin.

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Trump did not rule out halting American aid in his remarks from the White House.

Well see what happens, he said.

The Trump administration is also considering whether to cut back on intelligence sharing with Kyiv, a US official told CNN.

Throughout the war, US intelligence has been critical to support Ukraines ability to withstand Russias military and to fight back against the Kremlins forces.

New funding to transport aid unlikely

US military officials said on Monday that it appeared unlikely that the Trump administration would request additional funding for Ukraine aid from Congress, which will be required for the US military  and in particular the Army  to continue transporting military equipment to Ukraine and training Ukrainian troops.

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The Army has been paying for the transportation of the aid and the training out of its own budget, amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars, military officials said. But the branch will have to either cut back or halt those operations if it doesnt receive new funding.

A similar situation played out last year, when funding for Ukraine faced an uncertain future in Congress and left the Army to foot the bill for hundreds of millions of dollars in support for Kyivs war effort.

At that time, under the Biden administration, these operations were considered mission critical, so money had to be moved around from within the Defense Departments budget to support them. But this time, its far from clear that support for Ukraine remains a White House or Pentagon priority.

As of Sunday, aid was still moving into Ukraine. A defense official told CNN that the Department is continuing to deliver via previously-approved [presidential drawdown authorities] some of the critical munitions, including hundreds of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (GMLRS) and anti-tank weapons and thousands of artillery rounds, that Ukraine is employing on the battlefield when they are available from our stocks.

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The official added that DoD is also providing other capabilities, such as armored vehicles, as soon as required repairs are completed.

Already, some Republicans have raised alarms about the administration potentially cutting off support for Kyiv. Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska said over the weekend she was feeling unwell over whispers from the White House that they may try to end all US support for Ukraine.

I know foreign policy is not for the faint of heart, but right now, I am sick to my stomach, she wrote.

The discussions come as the president and members of his Cabinet have continued to publicly question Zelenskys intentions and express skepticism that he is ready for a peace deal.

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Earlier Monday, Walz argued that what became so evident to us in that session [on Friday] was he is not ready to talk peace at all.

What we dont have right now is President Zelensky saying, I am ready to take the steps necessary and have the conversations necessary and make the compromises necessary to end the fighting, Waltz told Fox News.

Were ready to have those conversations. We had it with the Russians in Riyadh, Waltz said, referring to last months US-Russia talks in Saudi Arabia. Were ready to have it with the Ukrainians and then engage in shuttle diplomacy. But we need to hear that latter piece from Zelensky, and we need to hear it publicly.

Trump administration officials are still committed to moving forward with navigating an off-ramp to the war, the sources said. That includes continuing talks with the Russians and Ukrainians. CNN previously reported that preparations are now underway for a second round of US-Russia talks, to be hosted shortly, potentially also in a Gulf state.

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We are not gonna stop to make movements to try and stop to end the war, the administration official told CNN. But it would be extremely helpful if Zelensky expressed an openness to go somewhere other than where we are today, the official said.

CNNs Zachary Cohen contributed reporting.

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The New York Times, citing an anonymous administration official, has reported that US President Donald Trump will discuss the possible suspension or complete cancellation of military aid to Ukraine, including weapons funded by Joe Bidens administration, on Monday, 3 March.

Source: European Pravda with reference to The New York Times

Details: The NYT reported that a representative from Trumps administration stated that Trump will meet with his top national security advisers on Monday, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, to review and possibly take action on several policy options regarding Ukraine.

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The official said that among these options is the suspension or cancellation of US military aid to Ukraine, including the latest shipments of ammunition and equipment authorised and paid for during Biden's administration.

Background:

Over the past weekend, there were reports that US President Donald Trump's administration is considering halting all current military aid shipments to Ukraine in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's remarks in the Oval Office on Friday, 28 February and his inflexibility in the peace process.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule on Friday after a spat with Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

Following this spat, Trump said that Zelenskyy had "disrespected" the United States and was "not ready for peace".

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U.S. President Donald Trump will discuss on March 3 the possible suspension or complete cancellation of military aid to Ukraine, including weapons pledged by the Biden administration, The New York Times (NYT) reported, citing an undisclosed source.

The news comes after Trump's public spat with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Feb. 28 that upended plans to sign a natural resources treaty between the two countries.

An unnamed administration official told NYT that Trump will meet on March 3 with his top national security aides, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, to review and potentially act on a range of policy options for Ukraine.

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Among the issues to be considered will be the suspension or cancellation of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, including the latest shipments of ammunition and equipment authorized during the Biden administration, the official said.

Zelensky has repeatedly urged the U.S. to continue shipping arms to Ukraine to strengthen Kyiv's position in future peace negotiations with Russia.

The Trump administration has not authorized new weapons shipments for Ukraine, but has not halted those that were announced under the previous Biden administration.

Reuters reported in early February that opposing factions within the administration had been debating whether the U.S. should continue providing weapons.

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The U.S. has provided Ukraine with $65.9 billion in military aid since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Trump signed an executive order on the first day of his term freezing foreign aid funding for 90 days.

Read also: Ill need more ammo  Ukraines soldiers react to Trump-Zelensky Oval Office showdown

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on March 2 that a number of European nations, including the U.K. and France, are developing a 'coalition of the willing' that will include "planes in the air and boots on the ground" in an effort to negotiate a successful ceasefire in Ukraine.

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Starmer added that for any coalition to succeed, Europe must "have strong U.S. backing."

"(European allies) will go forth to develop a 'coalition of the willing' to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace," Starmer said during a press conference following a European leaders summit in London. "Not every nation will feel able to contribute but that can't mean we sit back. Instead those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency."

"The U.K is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air. Together with others, Europe must do the heavy lifting," Starmer said. "This is not a moment for more talk... If you want to preserve the peace, you have to defend the peace."

Read also: U.K. to provide Ukraine with $2 billion for air defense

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Donald Trump could cut off the taps to Ukraine as he discusses cancelling military aid to the war-torn country during a meeting with his key advisers.

The president will meet with senior advisers, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, to consider a range of options, including cancelling aid that has already been approved and funded by the Biden administration, the New York Times reported.

The meeting follows a shouting match between Volodymyr Zelensky and Mr Trump in the Oval Office on Friday.

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The White House is said to be split on how to handle Ukraine following the row, with some advisers said to be taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country.

Mr Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky during the White House row - Andrew Harnik

Mr Trump has reportedly told Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron that he wants to see Europes plan on how to stop the fighting in Ukraine.

He also expects an apology from Mr Zelensky, as well as a declaration that he wants peace, before he is allowed to return to the White House to sign a minerals deal.

Mr Trump claimed he was the only US president that has not given Ukrainian land to Russia.

The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is president Donald J Trump. Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticise, and the fake news gladly puts out anything they say! he wrote in a Truth Social post

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Ukraine is expected to give up some territory as part of a peace deal, with the Kremlin ruling out giving back regions it claims to have annexed.

Meanwhile, Sir Keir is continuing to rally a coalition of European allies to protect Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Volodymyr Zelensky waves outside No. 10 - Toby Melville/Reuters

Canada and Turkey are involved in discussions about joining Sir Keirs so-called coalition of the willing, which could see western soldiers being sent to Ukraine to enforce a deal.

The plan is the UK and Frances response to a series of private requests made by Mr Trump following his public row with Mr Zelensky on Friday, Bloomberg reports.

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Mr Trump is unwilling to commit to backing European troops who are sent to Ukraine until Europe produces a plan to stop the fighting.

On Sunday, Emmanuel Macron suggested Britain and France had drawn up a plan for a one-month truce in Ukraine in the air, at sea.

However, the UK Government said on Monday no agreement had been reached.

A UK government spokesman said: There is intense work taking place to take forward that work. I think as the PM also said yesterday, we also want to keep up this momentum. The summit yesterday [led to] an important set of conclusions.

Theres going to be various options on the table which are now subject to further discussion with both the US and European partners.

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Meanwhile, the UK government appeared to distance itself from Lord Mandelson, the UK ambassador to the US, after he suggested Europe should give unequivocal backing to the initiative Mr Trump is taking.

Armed forces minister Luke Pollard slapped down the comments, saying it was not government policy.

Lord Mandelson has embarked on a charm offence since arriving in Washington after previous comments suggesting Mr Trump a danger to the world outraged key figures inside the administration.

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President Trump on Monday doubled down on his criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, just days after their Oval Office meeting went off the rails, bashing his latest comments that an end to the Ukraine-Russia war is far away.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! the president wrote on Truth Social.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking? Trump added.

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Zelensky later Monday said we need real peace and insisted on security guarantees, saying he is still working with American and European partners.

It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible, he wrote on the social platform X.

Zelensky said late Sunday that he thinks the relationship between the United States and Ukraine will continue, despite the explosive spat at the White House, but added that a deal to end the war is still very, very far away, The Associated Press reported.

Trump, after the Oval Office meeting Friday, also accused the Ukrainian president of not being ready for peace, calling him disrespectful and only having a chance of coming out OK because of us. Zelensky has since said he wouldnt apologize for the tense meeting, and Trump told reporters that Zelensky overplayed his hand.

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In his post Monday, Trump shared the article from the AP, which is the outlet the White House has banned from pooling the president over the wire services refusal to call the Gulf of Mexico the Gulf of America.

Updated at 1:17 p.m. EST

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Another former adviser to Donald Trump has called him out for bowing to Russia in his Ukraine peace deal, and the president does not seem to be handling it very well.

H.R. MCMASTER IS A WEAK AND TOTALLY INEFFECTIVE LOSER! Trump posted to his social media platform Truth Social late Sunday.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our CountrySo that we dont end up like Europe! Trump wrote in a separate post.

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In another post early Monday, Trump claimed that he was the only president who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia, despite the fact that the deal cooked up by his administration thus far would fail to return Ukraine to its prewar borders.

The commentary on his first term national security adviser followed a 60 Minutes interview in which McMaster spoke on Trumps excruciating meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. On Friday, Trump and Vice President JD Vance overtly showed where their loyalties lie: Seated in front of the press in the White House, the pair refused to let Zelenskiy speak, allowed a conservative reporter to mock Zelenskiys wartime attire, and effectively leveraged the critical meeting for measly political gain by defending Russian President Vladimir Putin at the cost of denigrating former U.S. officials. And in doing so, they challenged Americas strongest alliances while ceding the world stage to its adversaries.

The lack of diplomacy derailed peace negotiations and prematurely concluded Zelenskiys visit, before the Ukrainian leader had a chance to sign a rare earth minerals deal that would have been a boon for Americas tech industry.

Vladimir Putin couldnt be happier, McMaster told CBS, sizing up the events of the day. Because what he sees is all of the pressure on Zelenskiy, all of the pressure on Ukraine, and no pressure on him.

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McMaster noted that Putin is a master manipulator with a deep understanding of how to work Trump to Russias advantage.

He appeals to President Trumps sense of aggrievement, McMaster said. And hes been very successful at it because hes a master manipulator and one of the best liars in the world.

Russian forces crossed the Ukrainian border on February 24, 2022, which Putin tried to justify by falsely claiming that he needed to protect civilians in eastern Ukraine.

The U.S. and Russia opened discussions at a meeting in Saudi Arabia last month, seeking a conclusion to the three-year war, but the assembly conspicuously excluded Ukrainian leadership.
(Bloomberg) -- For more than a year, Courtney Gibbons was focused on exploring the mathematical foundations of artificial intelligence  the kind of arcane research that can sometimes be overlooked until it helps pave the way for the next ChatGPT.

Most Read from Bloomberg

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But in February, Gibbons was one of 170 employees fired at the National Science Foundation, a federal agency that has long been a linchpin of domestic technology research and investment. Many of these were probationary staffers and part-time experts like Gibbons who had been handpicked over the past two years specifically for their expertise in AI. About a quarter worked inside groups central to deploying NSF funding for AI research, according to documents viewed by Bloomberg.The wave of layoffs pushed by the Trump administration, combined with looming budget cuts, is now threatening the ability of the NSF to sustain AI research at the scale necessary for the US to remain competitive, according to industry watchers and current and former employees at the organization. These moves risk severing the talent pipeline that feeds the industrys most cutting-edge companies and ceding leadership in artificial intelligence to China at a time when President Donald Trump has made it a priority to bolster US AI supremacy, largely through a deregulatory agenda.This directly contradicts other Trump administration priorities, said Gregory Allen, director of the Wadhwani AI Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Almost every employee with an advanced degree at every American AI firm has been a part of NSF-funded research at some point in their career. Cutting those grants is robbing the future to pay the present.

On Monday, the agency said it would reinstate 84 of the workers to comply with a court ruling that determined the mass firing of probationary employees was illegal. The experts are not among those being being brought back, the NSF said. Attorneys for federal workers also say the temporary order could still be struck down.

A spokesperson for the NSF previously told Bloomberg News that the agency is working expeditiously to conduct a comprehensive review of our projects, programs and activities to be compliant with the existing executive orders. A White House spokesperson declined to comment.

One of the affected departments inside NSF, called the Directorate for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, had been created as part of the 2022 Chips and Science Act and was considered an important avenue to funnel grants focused on machine learning, robots and advanced manufacturing. The group had been grappling with cuts to its funding, which was slashed by 30% in 2024 to $617.9 million. Now, layoffs mean there are fewer people inside the NSF who can ensure those grants are actually awarded.The layoffs hit AI-focused groups that were operating at capacity to begin with, according to current and former staffers. As a result, many review panels have been postponed or cancelled, stalling funding for some AI projects. Its also left researchers and institutions that were already approved uncertain about who will be shepherding their projects in the months ahead. And the specter of additional cuts now hangs over academics across the country.

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The newly formed Department of Government Efficiency, conceived by Trump and billionaire Elon Musk to slash federal spending, has given agencies including the NSF until March 13 to propose additional reductions that could reduce its workforce by up to 50%. Meanwhile, some Republicans in Congress are setting their sights on even more drastic cutbacks. Americas innovation engineCreated in 1950, the NSF has long been a quiet powerhouse for American innovation. The technology behind Larry Pages and Sergey Brins PageRank algorithm, which helped sort digital information and served as the basis for Google, emerged from a project funded by the NSF.Years before generative artificial intelligence went mainstream with the launch of ChatGPT, the NSF also helped lay the foundations for the underlying technology behind AI chatbots.Its the place that makes most of the hardcore AI research happen, said Gibbons, the former NSF staffer and a professor at Hamilton College in New York. When you think about who funded the work that led to transformers, when people thought neural networks were kind of crazy back in the day, that was coming out of this group.

Much of the conversation around AI competitiveness is currently devoted to private US companies, such as OpenAI, Alphabet Inc.s Google and Meta Platforms Inc., which are building cutting-edge artificial intelligence systems. But the programs that the NSF funds have long been the fertile ground from which Americas tech giants recruit, said Kumar Garg, president at Renaissance Philanthropy, a nonprofit advisory firm that connects wealthy individuals and foundations with science, technology and innovation projects. They might write that seminal paper when theyre at Google, but NSF played an important part of their story, he said.The NSF cuts, while severe, represent a continuation of a longer-term decline in US public research investment as a percentage of GDP. Private R&D has picked up some of that slack but thats not going to be enough, said Garg, who served in the Obama administrations office of science and technology. Chinas going in the other direction.Days after the NSF cuts, Metas Chief AI Scientist Yann LeCun wrote in a post on LinkedIn that the US seems set on destroying its public research funding system. Most other tech leaders have remained silent.

An uncertain eraFederal scrutiny of the NSF only appears to be growing. A report led by Republican Senator Ted Cruz flagged $2 billion in NSF-funded projects for potential cuts. He zeroed in on funding descriptions that referenced diversity, equity and inclusion, even when the actual grants were earmarked for technical projects like computing infrastructure.

One such program was the $29 million DeltaAI project at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign which uses NSF funding to buy advanced computing chips from Nvidia Corp. to run AI workloads for AI research at institutions across the country. Similar chips-focused programs at San Diego State University and the University of Alaska Fairbanks were also flagged. Bill Gropp, director of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications at the University of Illinois, said there appeared to be confusion over what the program means by diversity. When were talking about diversity of researchers, were talking about people from different fields, states and disciplines, he said.So far, theres no indication that the programs budget is being cut, he said, but its hard to know what happens next.

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One notable alumnus of the University of Illinois and a beneficiary of its computing resources is venture capitalist Marc Andreessen. In a January interview, he said his research there resulted in the Mosaic web browser that helped popularize the internet. Now, he's helping support DOGE effort, recruiting candidates and calling himself the group's unpaid intern in an interview last month with the Hoover Institution.With government support uncertain, some researchers and organizations are considering alternative funding sources, including through philanthropies. But there are limits. Philanthropic funding of the sciences is often aimed at a few schools, said Margaret Martonosi, a professor at Princeton University who previously served as head of the NSFs directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering. It doesnt help an aspiring AI expert in an arbitrary part of our country get the opportunities they need.

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The Pentagon is weighing options to establish new flight corridors to test hypersonic weapons over the U.S. and Australia  and its eyeing the Trump administrations urgent call for a homeland missile shield as a mechanism to speed up the approval process.

The Defense Department already leverages several over-sea test ranges to validate that the hypersonic vehicles its developing  which are designed to travel and maneuver at speeds above Mach 5  can hit their targets. But as programs transition to later test phases, overland ranges are better suited to evaluate how a system performs under more stressing conditions, like a faulty navigation system or an enemy decoy, which an adversary may use to distract from a real target.

For the last few years, the Pentagon has been considering locations for overland sites, in part a response to a requirement in the fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act that called for DOD officials to study options for at least two more corridors.

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The initial study phase identified more than 1,600 possible locations around the world, according to George Rumford, director of DODs Test Resource Management Center, or TRMC. From that pool, TRMC has narrowed its list to three, Rumford told Defense News in an interview. One of those locations is in Australia and relies on a partnership with the country through the trilateral defense pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the U.S. known as AUKUS. The other two are in the United States: one over Alaska and the other at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.

All three sites require lengthy approval and planning processes as well as funding to build new infrastructure and conduct the flight tests. The Pentagon in November announced it will partner with Australia and the U.K. through AUKUS to conduct up to six trilateral flight campaigns by 2028. Rumford said there are ongoing engineering and planning meetings that will determine a schedule for initial testing. The hope is that funding will be available later this year, according to Rumford.

For the domestic sites, TRMC is in the thick of the research and approval phases. If the regulatory approval process moves at a standard pace, the department could start flying in these corridors by 2029. The Pentagon is weighing options for shortening that process, using two of President Donald Trumps executive orders as justification.

Rumford declined to predict how much time the department thinks it could shave off that timeline.

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It could be a significant acceleration, he said. Ill just leave it at that.

Reducing red tape

Trumps Jan. 27 executive order directing the Pentagon to create an Iron Dome for America has a direct link to the hypersonic test corridor expansion, Rumford said. The project, which the administration has since renamed Golden Dome for America, aims to build an advanced, multilayered missile defense architecture comprised of space-based interceptors and sensors that can track ballistic and hypersonic missiles.

Since the orders release, the Pentagon has moved quickly to convene teams to evaluate existing contributions and lay out what new systems the department would need to meet the intent of the presidents direction. The Missile Defense Agency and the Space Development Agency have reached out to industry for input.

The Pentagon is considering the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, shown here during a 2021 missile test, as one of three possible overland hypersonic testing corridors.

In order to piece together an advanced missile defense architecture, Rumford said, the department will need to update its ranges and supporting infrastructure to validate those capabilities. The overland corridors could support that effort  particularly at White Sands, where much of the Golden Dome testing will likely occur.

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Were going to be making significant modernization upgrades at White Sands to realize an Iron Dome Capability at an accelerated pace, as directed by that executive order, he said.

The other order he referenced calls for establishing a National Energy Dominance Council to improve permitting processes and cut red tape. This directive, which emphasizes national security needs, may help TRMC streamline its certification process for the corridors, Rumford said.

No safety shortcuts

Rumford said the regulatory workarounds do not involve safety shortcuts, but instead focus on reducing the number of consecutive public notifications the Pentagon is required to make before establishing the new flight corridors.

The department is in the midst of a National Environmental Policy Act application process that requires environmental impact reviews when the government proposes projects it considers to have a major federal impact.

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The time it takes to conduct these reviews varies based on the complexity of a project, and Rumford noted that the corridor expansion is fairly complicated. Rather than applying to build a facility at a fixed site, the proposal involves multiple launch and landing sites.

As part of that process, the government is required to make public notifications of its plans. To streamline those notifications, the Pentagon is looking at options to issue them concurrently rather than one at a time.

Among the departments safety precautions is a requirement that no system will fly on an overland range until it has been tested over water and has proven ready for the later phases of flight test. Rumford noted that most of the hypersonic testing at these new U.S. corridors will occur over federal land and above commercial airspace.

The Pentagon is also working closely with the Federal Aviation Administration, Department of Transportation, Department of the Interior and other stakeholders to coordinate safety concerns and make sure they  and the broader public  understand the national security mission thats driving the need for the flight corridors.

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We absolutely want to make sure that the American public understands that were executing this safely and that were doing this because theres a national security reason for us to do this test, Rumford said. We are not exploring this out of curiosity. Were exploring this because theres a national need to be able to do this.

Cost containment

Funding is another factor in how soon the Pentagon can expand its hypersonic testing footprint  and much of the financial discussion is tied up in behind-the-scenes budget planning processes.

TRMC declined to provide details on funding estimates for the corridors, but Rumford offered some insight into how his office is looking to contain the cost of the project, which he said is largely spread across three categories: flight testing, building support infrastructure and buying the instrumentation needed to conduct a test and collect data about a systems performance.

The Pentagon has initiatives that Rumford thinks could bring down costs in each of these areas. For the last few years, DOD has been working to reduce the cost of flight tests by investing in reusable testbeds through programs like the Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed and the Defense Innovation Units Hypersonic and High-Cadence Airborne Testing effort.

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To limit its support infrastructure and instrumentation costs, the department is looking to make much of those capabilities mobile  think mobile launch pads, launchers and telemetry  which is cheaper and also gives TRMC more flexibility.

One program applying this approach, SkyRange, is converting Global Hawk drones into whats essentially a flying test range. By equipping the uncrewed aircraft with sensors and instrumentation, TRMC can use them to support flight tests.

Another effort, dubbed Modular Open Systems Architecture Instrumentation Containers, is focused on making ground-based test support systems mobile, allowing TRMC to essentially roll of the instrumentation onto ships, rail cars and trucks and transport them to testing sites.

So, because our instrumentation solution is intended to be mobile, we think that we can keep the corridor cost at a minimum, Rumford said.
(Bloomberg) -- President Donald Trumps immigration detentions ticked down after a fast start in his first few days in office.

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Detentions totaled 8,200 during the two weeks ending Feb. 22, according to federal data published last week. That compared with about 10,000 in the previous two-week period, which roughly corresponded with the beginning of the Trump administration.

The pace of detentions has frustrated senior officials, prompting shakeups within Immigration and Customs Enforcement even as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and other leaders have touted their get-tough approach. Shortly after Trump took office Jan. 20, ICE invited media crews and television personality Phil McGraw, better known as Dr. Phil, to accompany agents on immigration raids.

Still, detentions during the new administrations first month more than doubled compared with the average during the final year of the Biden administration. The data analyzed by Bloomberg covers people held in detention facilities, which doesnt account for all arrests.

As of Feb. 22, ICE held 43,759 people in detention facilities. Thats 5.4% higher than the funded capacity of 41,500 beds, reflecting the stepped-up detentions so far under the Trump administration.

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Trump has vowed to carry out the largest deportations in US history and strengthen immigration enforcement. A steadily higher pace of detentions may take time to materialize as officials plan more enforcement operations, which can take days or weeks to prepare for.

The administration has also deployed active-duty military troops to the border and deputized agents from the Justice Department, Internal Revenue Service and elsewhere to work with ICE on deportations. Trump has also dispatched military planes to carry out deportation flights to Central and South America, and to ferry detainees to the US naval station at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

Under Trump, ICE has blamed leaks about planned raids for stymieing efforts to ramp up detentions. Administration officials have said theyre arresting and deporting the worst of the worst of people with criminal records, while declining repeated requests for a complete list of the names of those arrested and details of their alleged offenses.

Arrests at the southwest border have plummeted, extending a trend that started in June after former President Joe Biden limited which foreigners could apply for asylum. During one day in February, fewer than 200 people were caught crossing the border, DHS said. Daily border arrests ranged as high as 10,000 under Biden.

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People jailed by ICE are spending less time in detention before being deported or released while their case is decided. Since Trump took office, the average number of days theyve spent in detention has dropped to 41 from 51 as the administration looks to speed up deportations.

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Republican money is flowing in a Democratic primary election in Pittsburgh, even if conservative values arent.

MAGA Republicans would be hard-pressed to find something to love in the Pittsburgh mayoral race. With the state having awarded Donald Trump its electoral votes in 2024, Pittsburgh remains a stubbornly blue holdout, standing defiantly against the states reddening suburbs and rural districts. A Democrat is widely expected to win  one lone Trump supporter is battling an openly gay Republican for the GOP nomination, having already run and lost the race before.

So why is Pennsylvanias richest man, who was one of the biggest by-dollar supporters of the GOP in the last election cycle, putting his political capital behind the primary opponent of Pittsburghs embattled Democratic mayor, Ed Gainey?

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For starters, hes always involved.

Jeffrey Yass is quickly becoming the most important name in Pennsylvania politics, even without running for office himself. The billionaire businessman doubled his net worth with an investment in TikToks parent company in 2024, but even before that windfall had been bankrolling politicians in a notable number of races across the state  particularly in Allegheny County, home to the states second-largest city.

His involvement has infuriated Democrats in the region for years. For starters, Yass does not live there: He resides in Lower Merion Township, a mere 4-hour drive from the center of Pennsylvania steel country.

Jeffrey Yass of Susquehana Capital has funded one out of every three of our legislators here in Pennsylvania since 2017, according to one activist who tracks the GOP megadonors activities. (Susquehanna International Group/YouTube)

And then theres the obvious issue  his Republican leanings. Yass was a top contributor to GOP candidates and causes in the last election cycle, shelling out around $100 million to various groups and Republicans around the country. That includes Donald Trump, in whom he found an ally willing to reverse a ban on TikTok weakly pursued by the Biden administration (but a ban that previously had the support of many Republicans).

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Jeffrey Yass is the richest man in Pennsylvania, and hes funded one out of every three of our legislators here in Pennsylvania since 2017 in an effort to push his agenda, Mary Collier, developer of the Yass Tracker told a local news outlet in January. Her tool tracks the spread of his money across state politics.

On Monday, Gainey, a progressive and Pittsburghs first Black mayor, is set to open up a new line of attack: His opponent, Allegheny County Controller Corey OConnor, is the latest recipient of Yasss largesse  and perhaps one more cog in the effort to reshape the states politics. His team, at a press conference, is set to frame the race as a battle against this latest invasion of Trump-aligned GOP money.

Filings with the state Department of Elections reviewed by The Independent indicate that OConnor has taken donations this cycle from several major Republican donors whove funded GOP candidates like Trump  and bankrolled any challenge to candidates aligned with the progressive wing of the Democratic Party.

One of those donors is Kent McElhattan, venture capitalist and founder of the nonprofit McElhattan Foundation, who was a top supporter of Dave McCormick in his successful bid to oust incumbent Democratic Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey last year. Another is Herb Shear  yet another venture capitalist  who gave hundreds of thousands in support of Trumps 2024 election and nearly $50,000 to a PAC supporting a Democrat, Bhavini Patel, who was ultimately defeated in the Democratic primary for Pennsylvania's 12th Congressional District, the same year. Patels campaign was described at one point as representing an onslaught of far-right cash against incumbent Summer Lee, a congresswoman and member of The Squad.

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An email provided to The Independent also indicated that OConnor was due to meet in February with two GOP operatives closely tied to Yass, Jeff Kendall and Kent Gates. The email suggests that Gates, an operative with a national GOP consulting firm, was to present a strategy aimed at unseating the incumbent Mayor Gainey at the meeting.

A spokesperson for OConnors campaign told The Guardian that the OConnor campaign had no involvement in the planning of that event, but did not deny that OConnor attended. They also argued that Gainey has been the recipient of money from GOP-aligned donors in past cycles.

Corey spoke about his record of progressive reform and his plans to make housing more affordable, expanding before and after school programming, and reopening [recreation] centers, a spokesperson told The Guardian.

This is the same stump speech that he has shared with hundreds of residents and dozens of community organizations across Pittsburgh. The campaign did not know who would be in attendance in advance.

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One Pennsylvania-based Democratic operative described the group to The Independent as a network of wealthy conservatives who meddle in Democratic primaries to replace people-powered leaders whove stood up to Trump and won with corporate-bought politicians willing to bend to MAGA billionaires and their right wing agenda.

Dave McCormick was a top recipient of donations from two periodic Republican donors also supporting Corey OConnors campaign. (AP)

The influx of money tied to the GOP is making a clear impact on the Pittsburgh mayoral primary: Lee and another target of Yasss operatives, County Executive Sara Innamorato, have lined up in Gaineys camp  while OConnor enjoyed his best fundraising month of the race in January, and outraised the incumbent 20-to-1.

We knew going in that we (werent) going to have the big donors, Gainey told a news outlet last month.

He added to NPR affiliate WESA: The reality is  when your buddies are corporate developers, union busters, and hospital CEOs, youre going to raise a lot more money than a campaign fighting for nurses, teachers, and firefighters. I was elected after being outraised four to one because of the people-powered coalition that has only grown as Ive delivered for the regular people of this city as Mayor  and were ready to do it all over again.

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A few factors do differentiate the two Democrats politically. OConnor supports funding more cops on the street, while Gainey has touted support for alternative methods, including putting social workers on some police calls. In 2024, a number of Gaineys staffers supported a ballot measure that would have called on the city to divest from the Israeli government. OConnors allies have attacked progressives as uninterested in governing.

There is no vision coming off of Grant Street anymore, OConnor said at his campaign launch in December. Instead, as I look around, I see a mayor and administration thats managing decline instead of working to grow Pittsburgh.

But even if he unseated Gainey for the Democratic nomination, OConnor would be no ally of Donald Trump in office. And so its not totally clear why else MAGAworld would take a strong interest in OConnor, who like Gainey repeated a pledge to resist ICE detention efforts in the city at a candidate forum several weeks ago, if not to merely punish progressives.

In recent weeks, OConnor has picked up an endorsement from the Young Democrats of Allegheny County, which backed his opponent in 2021, as well as a sizable chunk of union support. Gainey, meanwhile, has the support of the thousands-strong United Steelworkers and a slate of other left-leaning organizations, and retains close ties to the SEIU, which supported his last run.

Should OConnor win, this primary election could end up encouraging Democrats to take another look at not just the Democratic Party itself but its primary election  and the growing willingness of conservatives to use them as opportunities to put a thumb on the scale.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the tariffs on Mexico and Canada expected to be leveled this week are a fluid situation.

Lutnick joined Fox Newss Sunday Morning Futures to discuss President Trumps plans to place tariffs on Mexico and Canada in an effort to curb the flow of migrants and fentanyl into the United States.

The tariff plans were paused for a month after both countries agreed to shore up their borders with the U.S., but Trump has maintained they will go into effect Tuesday.

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They have done a lot, Lutnick said Sunday about Mexico and Canadas recent actions.

So, [Trump] is sort of thinking about right now how exactly he wants to play it with Mexico and Canada, and that is a fluid situation.

Lutnick for the first time indicated for the first time the tariffs may differ from the original 25 percent proposed by Trump immediately after taking office.

Exactly what they are, were going to leave that for the president and his team to negotiate, he said.

Last week, Trump confirmed the tariffs on Mexico and Canada would be going into place and said he would be increasing the tariff on China.

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Trump has been vague about whether the tariffs would go into effect after the delay.

I think there are going to be tariffs on Tuesday on Mexico and Canada, exactly what theyre going to be, Im going to leave that for the president to decide, Lutnick reiterated.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Trump ran ads in Spanish in Nevada and other states in both 2020 and 2024. (Latinos for Trump ad screengrab)

English should be the official language of the United States, says a new executive order signed by President Donald Trump. The move follows the Trump administrations termination of the Spanish-language version of the White House website and its Spanish-language account on X, formerly Twitter.

Both were abruptly shut down within hours of Trumps second presidential inauguration. Visitors to whitehouse.gov/espanol were met with page not found and a GO HOME button that sent the user to the English-language page. This button was later updated to read, GO TO HOME PAGE.

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In halting its Spanish-language communications, the White House is ignoring the demographic reality of the U.S. and rejecting a long-standing tradition in American government of making key civic information accessible to the public. These changes, while mostly symbolic, signal the Trump administrations unwelcoming stance toward Spanish specifically and multilingualism in general.

US is a Spanish-speaking country

This is a country where we speak English, not Spanish., Trump said in a 2015 debate during his first presidential run.

But, as a linguist specializing in Spanish and bilingualism, I know that this is simply not true. Historically, the U.S. has had no official language, and Spanish was spoken in the lands that now make up the U.S. well before the countrys founding.

Spain founded its first permanent settlement in whats now Florida in 1565, nearly 50 years before English settlers established Jamestown and the colony of Virginia. Spanish settlements in the Southwest began in the early 1600s, and large numbers of English speakers did not arrive there until the mid-19th century.

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Today, approximately 43 million people in the U.S. speak Spanish as their primary language, representing roughly 14% of the entire population. If those who speak Spanish as their second language are included, then the U.S. is the second-largest Spanish-speaking country in the world after Mexico.

Beyond population size, Spanish speakers help power the U.S. economy, contributing an estimated US$2.3 trillion. Thats more than the gross domestic product of any other Spanish-speaking country in the world. With the help of its Spanish-speaking population, Miami is the financial and commercial capital of Latin America.

An inclusive communications strategy

Responding to this demographic reality, the Spanish-language content was first included on the White House webpage in 2001 by the administration of George W. Bush, a Republican.

In a press release, the Bush White House said that the new WhiteHouse.gov website would now accommodate Spanish-speaking visitors. It included both Spanish-language translations of the English materials, as well as feature stories relevant to the Hispanic community.

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The Bush White Houses website was inclusive in other ways, too, with enhanced content for people who are hard of hearing or visually impaired and special content for kids.

The Obama administration maintained WhiteHouse.gov/espanol from 2009 to 2017.

Under the first Trump administration, however, the page was quickly removed. At the time, the White House said that the site would be restored shortly.

That didnt happen. The page did not reappear until the Biden administration in 2021.

Following the latest removal of whitehouse.gov/espanol, a White House spokesperson has again said that the administration is committed to bringing back the website, although no timeline was given.

US has multilingual history

The Trump administrations effort to limit White House communication in languages other than English breaks with not just the recent past but also with the earliest traditions of the republic. Since the inception of the country, there has been a concerted effort to provide information to the public in relevant languages.

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For example, the U.S. Constitution was translated into German and Dutch in 1787 and 1788, languages that were widely spoken at the time, especially in New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland. These translations helped inform the public of the countrys foundational values and allowed for public engagement and participation during the ratification process.

The 1848 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which ended the MexicanAmerican War and redrew the southern boundaries of the U.S., was written in both Spanish and English, ensuring that Spanish speakers in the territories newly claimed by the U.S. were informed about their citizenship and rights.

Translators who spoke everything from Italian to Turkish to Albanian were stationed at Ellis Island in the early 20th century to help register and assist immigrants arriving to New York from across the globe. A few decades later, the U.S. government produced World War I propaganda posters in various languages, hoping to convince a culturally and linguistically diverse American public to support the war effort, buy war bonds and enlist in the military.

In 1964, the Civil Rights Act, which outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion and sex, also laid the legal foundation for multilingual services in federal assistance programs. In government programs such as Medicaid, people who speak a language other than English are entitled to treatment equal to that of English speakers.

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The U.S. has never embraced multilingualism. History is rife with campaigns to suppress foreign and Indigenous languages. But as these examples show, the U.S. has often taken a policy approach that acknowledges the linguistic needs of the U.S public.

Spanish on the campaign trail, not in the White House

Even Trump, who has made anti-immigrant and especially anti-Latino rhetoric a centerpiece of all his candidacies, released multiple Spanish-language advertisements during his 2024 presidential campaign, in hopes of improving his standing with Latino voters.

His campaign released several ads targeting swing states with large Spanish-speaking populations, such as Arizona and Nevada, and in October 2024 Trump even participated in a town hall meeting on the Spanish-language channel Univision, where audience members asked questions in Spanish.

These voters helped put Trump into office: Exit polling data shows that Trump won 42% of the Latino vote in the 2024 race, the highest percentage for a GOP candidate in at least 40 years.

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The federal government continues to host Spanish-language information on a variety of agency websites and offers multilingual support for key civic processes, such as filing taxes and requesting passports. The shuttering of the Spanish-language White House website seems largely symbolic.

His executive order making English the official language of the U.S. may end up being largely symbolic as well. It allows federal agencies to continue providing information in other languages, effectively separating Trumps public stance from its practical implementation.

But for a president with a staunch anti-immigrant attitude, symbolism is politically advantageous.

Trump, it seems, is willing to use Spanish on the campaign trail when it benefits him while reinforcing a public narrative of rejecting Spanish and Spanish speakers.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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US President Donald Trump downplayed reports that he could halt military aid to Ukraine, even as the administration has stopped financing new weapons sales to Kyiv, The Wall Street Journal reported.

I havent even talked about that right now. I mean, right now, well see what happens. A lot of things are happening right now, literally as we speak, Trump told reporters at the White House.

Trump is expected to meet Monday with senior officials to discuss the possibility of curtailing military support, as well as possibly limiting intelligence sharing and training for Ukrainian soldiers, The Washington Post reported.

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Beyond opposing further aid, the Trump administration could halt much of the flow of weapons already promised to Kyiv, analysts argued, but not all: Stopping arms that Ukraine has purchased would require certain legal maneuvers, such as invoking emergency defense laws.

Europe has more cash it could spend on Ukraine, but does not have the production lines ready to replace US weapons, a Russia expert argued in The Times of London.

Speaking to The Washington Post, a former US official was more blunt: Ukraine cannot survive without US support.
Hundreds of thousands of costumed onlookers watched and cheered as Germany's beloved Carnival parades made their way through city centres on Shrove Monday, the highlight of festivities each year.

The biggest parade on Shrove Monday, known in Germany as Rose Monday, was held in the western city of Cologne with some 12,500 participants accompanying satirical - and sometimes explicit - floats and throwing some 300 tons of sweets into the crowds celebrating along the route in bright sunshine.

This year's festivities were marred by heightened security following a string of deadly attacks in Germany in recent months.

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Just as people were celebrating Carnival, at least two people were killed and several injured when a car drove into a crowd in the south-western city of Mannheim, according to police.

An investigation into the incident is in full swing, with police yet to determine whether the incident was due to an attack or an accident.

Speaking ahead of Monday's parade, Cologne police president Johannes Hermanns told dpa that he wasn't worried about security at the event, with a large police contingent deployed to ensure a peaceful celebration.

Marc Michelske, head of Cologne's Shrove Monday parade, also said he felt "very relaxed," adding that it was important to show resilience against intimidation, following calls on social media for attacks during Carnival.

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Carnival celebrations in Germany kicked off on Thursday as huge costumed crowds began cutting loose, especially in the twin Carnival capitals of Cologne and Dusseldorf.

Parties and parades continued through the weekend, culminating in the Shrove Monday parades before festivities come to an end on Ash Wednesday, which in the Christian calendar marks the beginning of the Lenten season of prayer, fasting and atonement.

US President Donald Trump featured prominently on Carnival floats in Cologne and elsewhere this year, with Jacques Tilly, a float builder in Dusseldorf, telling dpa this was "due to his madness, we ... can hardly keep up with it."

One of three floats depicting Trump in the Dusseldorf parade showed the US president making a "Hitler-Stalin-Pact 2.0" with Russian President Vladimir Putin while crushing Ukraine, a reference to the 1939 agreement that cleared the way for Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union to invade and divide Poland.

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Another float included nude versions of Trump, Putin and Chinese Xi Jinping. They have pudgy bellies and huge testicals, on which are inscribed "Make America Great Again," "Make Russia Great Again" and "Make China Great Again."

In Cologne, a Trump float depicted the US president putting a leash on the Statue of Liberty and Lady Justice, while in the parade in Mainz, another Carnival stronghold in south-western Germany, he was shown drilling for oil.

Carnival floats traditionally also take a dig at domestic politics, with far-right leader Alice Weidel of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) depicted on a seesaw with US billionaire Elon Musk.

Musk had come out in support of the party, which is being monitored by domestic intelligence as a suspected far-right extremist group, ahead of Germany's parliamentary elections on February 23.

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Another Dusseldorf float showed AfD leader Weidel as an evil witch trying to lure young voters Hansel and Gretel with a swastika-shaped gingerbread.

"The float is intended to show that the AfD is very adept at using social media to lure young people into a radical world view," Tilly said, adding that he was subject to a flood of threats and abuse in response to the float, images of which had been released in advance.

A float with the motto PUTIN JAIL! drives past the spectators during the Rose Monday parade. Rose Monday is the highlight of the Rhineland carnival season with the traditional parade through Duesseldorf. Federico Gambarini/dpa

An Elon Musk themed float joins the procession. Rose Monday is the highlight of the Rhineland carnival season with the traditional parade through Dusseldorf. Federico Gambarini/dpa

A themed float with a Trump-Putin motif, who are fighting over Ukraine, joins the procession. Rose Monday is the highlight of the Rhineland carnival season with the traditional parade through Duesseldorf. Federico Gambarini/dpa

A float with Merz as a donkey drives through the crowd during the Rose Monday parade. Rose Monday is the highlight of the Rhineland carnival season with the traditional parade through Duesseldorf. Federico Gambarini/dpa

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Preparations for a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russia's President Vladimir Putin are now being "fast-tracked," CNN reported on March 2, citing undisclosed sources.

The news comes after President Volodymyr Zelensky left Washington early without signing a mineral deal with the U.S. following a tense argument with Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance in front of journalists.

Trump's spat with Zelensky on Feb. 28 was an additional incentive for the next round of talks on restoring relations between the U.S. and Russia to take place in the coming weeks, the sources told CNN.

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The next meeting between the Russian and American presidents may take place in one of the Persian Gulf countries, according to CNN.

The first round of talks on Feb. 18 in Saudi Arabia marked the first direct negotiations between the U.S. and Russia since Moscow's full-scale invasion began, with Russia's delegation, led by Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, sitting down with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials.

Ukraine was not invited to participate.

Following the initial meeting, Rubio outlined three main objectives both sides had agreed to pursue.

These include restoring embassy staff in Washington and Moscow, creating a high-level team to facilitate Ukraine peace talks, and exploring ways to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.

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Read also: Zelensky will have no choice but to concede  Trump reposts commentary claiming mineral deal ensures Ukraines security

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Donald Trump has said the U.S. should prioritize curbing illegal migration rather than worrying about Putin, days after the presidents explosive row with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelesnky.

Trump took to his Truth Social platform Sunday evening for his first comments on the Russia-Ukraine war since the president and Vice President JD Vance accused the Ukrainian leader of gambling with World War III in a widely criticized at the White House press conference on Friday.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country - So that we dont end up like Europe!, he wrote.

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Earlier Sunday, Trump shared a 600-word commentary from Michael McCune, an Arizona-based wedding DJ, who praised him for playing Russia and Ukraine like a master chess player.

Donald Trump has returned to his anti-migrant rhetoric (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Trump played both sides like a master chess player. In the end, Zelenskyy will have no choice but to concede, because without U.S. support, Ukraine cannot win a prolonged war against Russia, McCune wrote. And once U.S. companies have mini g operations in Ukraine, Putin will be unable to attack without triggering massive international consequences.

He concluded: In this game of chess, hes 10 moves ahead of everyone.

Trump and Zelenskys Oval Office talks began more cordially Friday, before they devolved into a furious shouting match, ending with the Ukrainian president leaving without signing the minerals deal to secure U.S. help in ending the war with Russia.

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The meeting began with Zelensky, who had flown to Washington to seek security guarantees, emphasizing the urgency of his visit. Trump again claimed that the Russia-Ukraine war would never have happened if I was president.

After Vance goaded Zelensky, asking him to show more gratitude toward Trump, the U.S. commander-in-chief interjected: Youre gambling with World War Three, and what youre doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country thats backed you far more than a lot of people say they should have.

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky clashed in a very public fallout (Getty Images)

After the heated exchange, a White House official said Trump was uninterested in reviving the agreement between both countries, while the president is considering axing military aid to Ukraine, according to the Washington Post.

Zelensky has refused to apologize over the Oval Office spat but said his relationship with the president is salvageable.

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On Sunday evening, Zelensky doubled down on the significance of U.S. support for Ukraine after meeting with British and European leaders.

There will be diplomacy for the sake of peace. And for the sake of us all being together  Ukraine, all of Europe and definitely, definitely America, he said.

The evening prior, Trump boasted that immigration had fallen to historic lows during his tenure and declared that the invasion of our country is OVER.

The month of February, my first full month in Office, had the LOWEST number of Illegal Immigrants trying to enter our Country in History  BY FAR!, he added, without citing the source of his claims. Thanks to the Trump Administration Policies, the Border is CLOSED to all Illegal Immigrants.
Trump issued an ominous message to American farmers as he announced his planned kneecapping of their most profitable market: foreign exports.

To the Great Farmers of the United States: Get ready to start making a lot of agricultural product to be sold INSIDE of the United States, Trump wrote on Truth Social on Monday. Tariffs will go on external product on April 2nd. Have fun!

This will have a massive, direct impact on how much money farmersmany of whom are still reeling from the tariffs (and subsequent bailout) from Trumps first termwill make from the products they grow. Agricultural exports like soybeans, grains, fruit, vegetables, and livestock products provided U.S. farmers with about $180 billion in annual revenue in the 2023 fiscal year.

Its unlikely that the farmers will see the fun in having to radically readjust their processes for less revenue. This coincides with Trumps tariff war, as he plans to levy massive 25 percent tariffs on imported goods from Canada and Mexico and 10 percent on goods from China. Chinese state media over the weekend reported that China planned to retaliate with tariffs on U.S. agricultureperhaps leading Trump to decide to destroy American farmers himself.
President Trump slammed H.R. McMaster after his former national security adviser said he is being played by Russian President Vladimir Putin, with Trump adding he believes we should spend less time worrying about Putin.

H.R. MCMASTER IS A WEAK AND TOTALLY INEFFECTIVE LOSER! Trump said Sunday on Truth Social.

We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country  So that we dont end up like Europe! Trump said in a second post.

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Trumps posts followed McMaster criticizing the president for his volatile Oval Office conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The two leaders met Friday to discuss a rare earth mineral deal that would lead to the end of the three-year Russia-Ukraine war, but the meeting ended with Zelensky and Trump in a shouting match.

[Trump] is being played, McMaster said on CBS Newss 60 Minutes. And hes being played like other presidents have been played.

McMaster also said Vladimir Putin couldnt be happier.

Because what he sees is all of the pressure on Zelensky, all of the pressure on Ukraine and no pressure on him.

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International shock spread after Zelensky and Trumps meeting, with European leaders quickly assembling a meeting to try to negotiate their own deal without the U.S.

What they see is something that is just confounding, a discussion that doesnt reflect the reality of the war in Ukraine, the degree to which this war is a crime against humanity, and they think how can President Trump be berating the leader of Ukraine while he says kind things about Putin? McMaster said of the allied countries.

The retired Army general also argued that Trumps rhetoric in recent weeks have delivered a series of body blows to the Ukrainian people in a time when they need willpower.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
US President Donald Trump has said on his media platform, Truth Social, that he is the only US president who has not given any Ukrainian land to Putin's Russia and asked people to remember that when he is criticised by the Democrats.

Source: Trump on Truth Social; Fox 5 New York TV channel

Quote from Trump: "The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is President Donald J. Trump."

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Details: It has been announced that Trump will address a joint session of the US Congress on Tuesday night.

Quote from Trump: "Tomorrow night will be big. I will tell it like it is!"

Background:

On 28 February, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance argued about the war in Ukraine at the White House in raised voices in front of TV cameras.

Prior to that, Trump had said at his meeting with Zelenskyy that he stood for both Ukraine and Russia.

After the spat, Trump said Zelenskyy had "disrespected" the United States and was "not ready for peace".

Zelenskyy then left the White House ahead of schedule.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said there was no chance for Mexico or Canada to avert the tariffs that he promised to impose starting Tuesday.

"No room left for Mexico or Canada," Trump said on Monday when asked about whether Canada and Mexico could avert tariffs by reaching a deal on curbing fentanyl flows into the United States.

(Reporting by Steve Holland; writing by Andrea Shalal; editing by Katharine Jackson)
In a escalation of tensions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Donald Trump warned on Monday that Washington's patience with Kiev may be running out.

His remarks came in response to Zelensky's comments in London, where the Ukrainian leader told reporters that a peace deal to end the war remained very, very far away.

"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" He went on to accuse Zelensky of deliberately prolonging the conflict, adding, It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be peace as long as he has Americas backing.

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"Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the US - Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking?" Trump wrote.

There was an uproar during Zelensky's visit to Washington last week.

Trump and his Vice President JD Vance intensely criticized Zelensky in the Oval Office, accusing him, among other things, of a lack of gratitude.

On Sunday, Western leaders meeting in London decided that a group of countries led by the United Kingdom and France should work with Ukraine on a peace plan, which would then be discussed with the US and, ideally, implemented.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on March 2 that the U.S. should "spend less time worrying about Putin," and instead focus on immigrants who engage in a range of alleged criminal behavior.

"We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our country  so that we dont end up like Europe!" he said in a post on Truth Social.

The post comes just days after the U.S. under Trump's administration welcomed Andrew and Tristan Tate  social media influencers accused of rape, human trafficking, and money laundering  into the country from Romania where they were under criminal investigation.

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Trump's comments are the latest instalment of a widening gulf between the U.S., and Ukraine and its European allies.

His public spat with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Feb. 28 upended plans to sign a natural resources treaty between the two countries.

The leaders of France and the U.K. visited the U.S. last week to convince Trump to play a role in Ukraine's post-war stability, but their diplomatic efforts were overshadowed by the unprecedented and televised quarrel in the White House.

The humiliating treatment Zelensky received from Trump and Vice President JD Vance prompted Europe's leaders to speak out in support of the Ukrainian president.

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At the same time, some European officials have appealed to Zelensky to mend ties with Trump to ensure continued U.S. engagement.

Read also: Attacks on Ukraines draft officers on the rise, fueled by social tension and Russian interference

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
US President Donald Trump has stated that his country has more pressing issues than "worrying about Putin".

Source: European Pravda, citing Trumps post on his platform Truth Social

Quote from the US President: "We should spend less time worrying about Putin, and more time worrying about migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our Country - So that we dont end up like Europe!"

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Details: The publication highlights that at the start of his second presidential term, Trump is demonstrating a significant shift in US administration policy towards Russia.

This shift has already been noted in the Kremlin. In particular, Dmitry Peskov, Putins spokesperson, stated that Donald Trumps administration has an approach to foreign policy that "largely" aligns with Russias.

It was also reported that US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has allegedly ordered the cessation of offensive cyber operations against Russia, which appears to be part of Trump's teams efforts to establish dialogue with the Kremlin.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes!

Physician executive Shamar Young discusses his article, Geographic disparities in advanced cancer care: a call for innovation, highlighting the uneven access to emerging cancer treatments across different health care systems. Shamar explores the impact of geography on advanced therapies like theragnostics and transarterial radioembolization (TARE), emphasizing how disparities in expertise, technology, and resources limit patient options. He discusses how specialized third-party services, such as TeleDaaS, can bridge these gaps by centralizing expertise and improving care accessibility. The conversation examines potential solutions for ensuring that all patients receive optimal cancer treatment, regardless of their location. Listeners will gain insights into how innovation in care delivery can reduce health disparities and improve patient outcomes.

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Transcript

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Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Shamar Young. He is a physician executive. Todays KevinMD article is Geographic disparities in advanced cancer care, a call for innovation. Shamar, welcome to the show.

Shamar Young: Thank you for having me. It is a pleasure to be here.

Kevin Pho: All right, let us start by briefly sharing your story and journey.

Shamar Young: Yeah, so I am an interventional radiologist, and some people may not be familiar with the fact that interventional radiologists commonly treat cancer, especially liver cancer. One thing that we have seen as interventional oncology, as we like to call it, has evolved is that there are a lot of disparities between how patients are treated depending on where they happen to show up to clinic. So patients who are treated in New Hampshire, where you are at, may be treated very differently in Tucson, and a lot of that has to do with the resources that various systems have. That is really what our article talks about and explores.

Kevin Pho: All right, so talk about the article itself for those who did not get a chance to read it.

Shamar Young: The article really explores how an individual patients journey can be very heterogeneous depending on where they happen to present with whatever problem they may have. Our focus was definitely on cancer therapy; however, this can be true in many different aspects of modern medical therapy. It is easy for people just to have knee-jerk treatment reactions of, Oh, that doctor is bad, or Oh, that system is bad, but that is not actually what is happening in most of the cases. There are a lot of complex things that happen in the modern American health care system that affect how people are treated, what kind of care they get, what level of care they get. There are a lot of challenges for us, and we just kind of explore the various challenges that medical systems and individual physicians have, and some options to try to overcome those.

Kevin Pho: So what would be some examples of these geographical disparities where patients who need interventional radiology procedures for cancer care would differ based on where they live? What would be some examples of conditions and procedures we are talking about here?

Shamar Young: Yeah, so for instance, if somebody presents with hepatocellular carcinoma, which of course is the most common primary liver cancer, if they present to a large center with a strong IR presence, many of those patientsif not mostwill be treated up front with something we call local regional therapy, which, of course, just means we are going to try to treat the cancer there in the liver. If they happen to present to a low-population system, then they may not even hear the word interventional radiology at any point; they may just hear systemic therapy, maybe a surgical therapy if they are a candidate (unfortunately very few patients are), and then maybe transplant if they are lucky. Even if they hear the word interventional radiology, one of the most common treatment methods at this time is something called transarterial radioembolization. It sounds like a very standard thing, but as we all know in the medical field, the devil is in the details. So how the radiation that is used to treat the hepatocellular carcinoma is prescribed can vary greatly between providers and between systems and whether or not the system has the software they need to do advanced dosimetry and try to optimize outcomes for those patients. It is very heterogeneous across the country.

Kevin Pho: So give us a sense of the impact on patient outcomes if you have patients in different geographic locations undergoing different treatment algorithms. How does that impact outcomes?

Shamar Young: Yeah, and so, you know, one of the trials that we will often look at in interventional oncologyand again, it is a radioembolization trialwas called DOSISPHERE. Really what it showed is that if we use these advanced dosimetry techniques, the benefit can be over a year in survival benefit, the overall survival benefit can be over a year, and many more of these patients can be what we call downstaged to curative-intent surgery if they do have the advanced dosimetry. But while it is hard to get a feel for how much advanced dosimetry is really being used, one of the markers we can sometimes look at is Medicare data and who is billing for advanced dosimetry. We see that less than 1 percent of all are billing for it. So this leads us to believe that there is quite a bit of heterogeneity between them. Of course, many interventional radiologists may be performing advanced dosimetry and not billing for it, but we would say that is probably going to be a minority of physicians.

Kevin Pho: You alluded to this earlier, but in terms of the reasons why there is such heterogeneity, is it because of cost, because of training, and you cannot get interventional radiologists in rural areas? What are some of the factors that lead to these disparities?

Shamar Young: Yeah, it is a great question. I think there are really two reasons, exactly as you are alluding to. Interventional radiologists are a small subspecialty, and there are just not enough of them to go around, so they tend to be clustered in larger hospital systems and larger population centers. Many of these rural hospitals can simply not hire anybody because the demand is too high, and those locations may be considered less desirable by some physicians who are leaving residency and looking for jobs. Another factor is just the resources that an individual interventional radiologist and system may have available to them. It is easy to say, Hey, just get that software, but we all know that all systems face a lot of demands with very limited resources. So if, perhaps, you are only treating one patient every other month with this treatment, it may not make sense for your hospital system to invest in a software, and so that can lead to some differences in treatment patterns.

Kevin Pho: In your article, you talk about some of the lessons that the U.S. health care system can learn from European models of centralized, specialized care. Talk about that contrast.

Shamar Young: Yeah, in Europe, as I am sure many of your listeners are aware, they tend to have centers of excellence. They will send everybody with HCC to one or two centers within a particular European country, and that is an excellent model for Europe because it really does allow patients to get a more homogeneous treatment algorithm. It concentrates patients of a certain diagnosis within a center, allowing that center to then optimize the resources and really invest for that disease, all the special bells and whistlesfor lack of a better termfor that disease. The problem we have in the U.S. is that we are so large geographically that it is really tough. I mean, just frankly speaking, nobody in Tucson wants to hear, Hey, you need to go to New Hampshire to receive treatment; that is where the center of excellence is. It is a financial impossibility for many of my patients and a huge burden even for those who have the economic means to do it.

Kevin Pho: All right, so what are some paths forward to address some of these disparities in the United States?

Shamar Young: I think a lot of people are looking at third-party vendors to try to close some of the disparities when you have the physicians available. There are third-party vendors where you can concentrate certain steps of various treatment algorithms. The dosing, for instance, in radioembolization can be concentrated with a third-party vendor, and it reduces the entrance cost and the overall cost to a system if you are not doing so many. In terms of physician availability, it is a real challenge for a number of reasons. One, there is just not enough, and frankly speaking, the statistics tell us that the shortage of interventional radiologyjust because I am an interventional radiologist, it is of great interest to meis going to increase rather than decrease over the coming decade; we are not training enough right now. We can hope to increase our residency spots, but those are really long-term issues. The other factor many systems are facing is that, again, interventional radiologists are a small subspecialty, so if you are a small community hospital in a small population center, then it may be difficult to justify having an interventional radiologist because there may not be enough work for them to do on a day-to-day basis. I think those are the challenges that are going to be harder to crack, but we will continue to move forward. Various modelssuch as interventional radiologists showing up at a certain small, low-volume center hospital once a week or twice a weekhave been explored, and hopefully will provide some benefit.

Kevin Pho: I hope you understand that role of third-party services. Give us a case study, story, or scenario where a third-party service can address some of these expertise shortages. What would that look like?

Shamar Young: Yeah, so in the case of radioembolization, we have been talking a lot about dosimetry because it is a personal passion of mine. Advanced dosimetry requires time and requires a software program, and it is one of those situations where, again, if you are not treating tons of patientsif you are not using that software every daythe time that it takes for you to do the dosimetry aspects increases quite a bit compared to somebody who is using it every day. That is something that can be offloaded to a third-party vendor. The third-party vendor can use the program, return the case with segmentation and all the details that are required to be inputted into the program, and then the physician can work with that and relatively quickly choose a dose or optimize the dose for that patient. That can lower your barrier in a number of ways. It can reduce physician time, and it can reduce the hospitals cost because they do not have to purchase that software upfront, which can be expensive.

Kevin Pho: Anything from a systemic or policy standpoint that can decrease these disparities?

Shamar Young: It is really challenging, to be honest. I think all of us are hoping for and looking for a magic wand, and to the best of my abilities, I have not personally come up with one. Of course, we can incentivize physicians by increasing revenue for those who are doing certain things like advanced dosimetry, but to be frank, many of these physicians have a lot of relativelyquote, unquotehigh RVU activities that they could be doing at any one moment, so it only goes so far. In terms of trying to increase the number of specific specialty physicians who are trainedinterventional radiology is just one example of many, as you and your listeners are well aware, where we could probably benefit from an increased number of those physiciansthat, too, is challenging. It is hard sometimes to just increase the publicity, so to speak, of that specific subspecialty; it is even harder to train people quickly. Residency is at least six years, and so, of course, everything takes time. But these are things that we could look to. That said, I honestly wish I had some great idea that was a magic wand, but I think it would be disingenuous to say I do.

Kevin Pho: We are talking to Shamar Young. He is a physician executive. Todays KevinMD article is Geographic disparities in advanced cancer care, a call for innovation. Shamar, let us end with some take-home messages that you want to leave with the KevinMD audience.

Shamar Young: The things I would like to say are really twofold. One, I think that in modern American society, it is very easy to demonize certain entities, but many of these issues are very, very complex. So again, it is not necessarily that any physician is bad; it is not that any system is bad; it is that they are facing real challenges, and we should at least try to understand those. The other thing I would like to say is that there are many people aware of these problems and working to find creative solutions. We could always use more people trying to find creative solutions, so we would love to have anybody out there who has a passion for this to jump in. Creative solutions are needed.

Kevin Pho: Shamar, thank you so much for sharing your perspective and insight. Thanks again for coming on the show.

Shamar Young: Thank you for having me.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Monday over comments he made that a deal to end the war with Russia was not near.

On his Truth Social platform, Trump posted an Associated Press story headlined "Ukraine's Zelenskyy says end of war with Russia is 'very, very far away.'"

"This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!" Trump wrote, using an alternate spelling of Zelenskiy.

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The comments follow Trump's public clash in the Oval Office with Zelenskiy on Friday before what was expected to be the signing of an agreement on Ukraine's rich natural resources.

The deal was never signed after Trump and his vice president, JD Vance, assailed the visiting leader as lacking gratitude for U.S. aid and being disrespectful.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Caitlin Webber and Doina Chiacu)
US President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky openly clashed during a meeting at the White House in Washington, DC, February 28, 2025. Credit - AFP via Getty Images

President Donald Trump slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday for suggesting that the end of Russia's war against Ukraine likely "is still very, very far away."

The comments come as prominent Trump allies escalate pressure on Zelensky to dramatically change his approach to the U.S. president, who has made quickly ending the war a top priority, or step aside.

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The long complicated relationship between the leaders has reached a nadir following a disastrous White House meeting in which Trump and Vice President JD Vance excoriated Zelensky for not being sufficiently thankful for U.S. support for Ukraine since Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the February 2022 invasion.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelensky, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform about the comments Zelensky made late Sunday while speaking to reporters in London.

Trump took issue with Zelensky suggesting it would take time to come to an agreement to end the war. The Ukrainian leader also tried to offer a positive take on the U.S.-Ukraine relationship in the aftermath of last week's White House meeting.

Asked by a reporter about the outlines of a new European initiative to end Russias war, Zelensky said: We are talking about the first steps today, and, therefore, until they are on paper, I would not like to talk about them in great detail.

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An agreement to end the war is still very, very far away, and no one has started all these steps yet," he added.

But Trump was only further irritated by Zelenskys suggesting it will take time for the conflict to come to a close.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelensky, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia, Trump added in his post. What are they thinking?

Zelensky took to social media soon after Trump's latest criticism. He did not directly refer to Trump's comments, but underscored that it is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible.

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We need real peace and Ukrainians want it most because the war ruins our cities and towns, Zelensky added. We lose our people. We need to stop the war and to guarantee security.

Trump's national security adviser said Zelenskys posture during Fridays Oval Office talks put up in the air whether hes someone the U.S. administration will be able to deal with going forward.

Is he ready, personally, politically, to move his country towards an end to the fighting? Mike Waltz said on Fox News' "Americas Newsroom" earlier Monday. "And can he and will he make the compromises necessary?

Waltz added another layer of doubt about U.S. support as other high-profile Trump allies have suggested that the relationship between Trump and Zelensky is becoming untenable.

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House Speaker Mike Johnson said Sunday that Zelensky needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude or someone else needs to lead the country for Ukraine to continue pursuing a peace deal negotiated by the United States.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally who has been a vociferous supporter of Ukraine, said soon after the Oval Office meeting that Zelensky either needs to resign and send somebody over that we can do business with, or he needs to change.

Angela Stent, a former national intelligence officer for Russia and Eurasia at the National Intelligence Council, said Putin is likely in no rush to end the war amid the fissures between Trump and Zelensky and Europe and the U.S. about the way ahead.

He is not interested in ending the war, said Stent, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington. He thinks Russia is winning. ... And he thinks that as time goes on, the West will be more fractured.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump on Monday directed a pause to U.S. assistance to Ukraine as he seeks to pressure Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to engage in negotiations to end the war with Russia.

The move comes just days after a disastrous Oval Office meeting in which Trump and Vice President JD Vance tore into Zelenskyy for what they perceived as insufficient gratitude for the more than $180 billion U.S. has appropriated for military aid and other assistance to Kyiv since the start of Russias invasion on Feb. 24, 2022.

A White House official said Trump is focused on reaching a peace deal and wants Zelenskyy committed to that goal. The official added that the U.S. was pausing and reviewing its aid to "ensure that it is contributing to a solution. The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the assistance.

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The order will remain in effect until Trump determines that Ukraine has demonstrated a commitment to peace negotiations with Russia, the official said.

The halting of military aid comes some five years after Trump held up congressionally authorized assistance to Ukraine as he sought to pressure Zelenskyy to launch an investigation into Joe Biden, then a Democratic presidential candidate. The moment led to Trumps first impeachment.

In the leadup to the 2024 election, Trump vowed a quick end to the war in Ukraine, even once boasting that he could bring a halt to the fighting in one day. He has shown increasing frustration with Zelenskyy over the war while simultaneously expressing confidence that Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he has long admired, can be trusted to keep the peace if a truce is reached.

Trump earlier on Monday slammed Zelenskyy for suggesting that the end of the war likely is still very, very far away. Zelenskyy had suggested it would take time to come to an agreement to end the war as he tried to offer a positive take on the U.S.-Ukraine relationship in the aftermath of last weeks White House meeting.

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This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform, responding to comments Zelenskyy made late Sunday to reporters.

Trump, at a White House event later Monday, referred to Zelenskyy's reported comments and asserted the Ukrainian leader better not be right about that.

Zelenskyy later took to social media in an effort to further explain his thinking. He did not directly refer to Trumps comments, but underscored that it is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible.

We need real peace and Ukrainians want it most because the war ruins our cities and towns, Zelenskyy added. We lose our people. We need to stop the war and to guarantee security.

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Trump administration and Ukrainian officials had been expected to sign off on a deal during Zelenskyys visit last week that would have given the U.S. access to Ukraines critical minerals in part to pay back the U.S. for aid it has sent Kyiv since the start of the war. The White House had billed such a pact as a way to tighten U.S.-Ukrainian relations in the long term.

Vance, in an interview with Fox News' Sean Hannity that aired Monday evening, said European allies were doing Ukraine a disservice by not pressing Zelenskyy to find an endgame to the war.

A lot of our European friends puff him up, Vance said. They say, you know, youre a freedom fighter. You need to keep fighting forever. Well, fighting forever with what? With whose money, with whose ammunition and with whose lives?

Democrats said the pausing of aid to Ukraine was dangerous and ill-advised.

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Democratic Rep. Brendan Boyle of Pennsylvania, who is co-chair of the Congressional EU Caucus, said the decision is reckless, indefensible, and a direct threat to our national security.

The Biden administration provided Kyiv with more than $66.5 billion in military aid and weapons since the war began. It had left unspent about $3.85 billion in congressionally authorized funding to send more weapons to Ukraine from existing U.S. stockpiles  a sum that had not been affected by the foreign aid freeze that Trump put in place when he first took office.

This aid was approved by Congress on a bipartisan basis  Republicans and Democrats alike recognized that standing with Ukraine is standing for democracy and against Putins aggression, Boyle said in a statement. Yet, Trump, who has repeatedly praised Putin and undermined our allies, is now playing political games with critical military assistance.

Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman, who served as counsel to House Democrats in the first impeachment inquiry against Trump, said the pausing of aid was another extortion of Zelenskyy.

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This is the exact opposite of peace through strength, Goldman said. Instead, what it is is its another extortion of President Zelenskyy, illegally withholding aid in order to get President Zelenskyy to agree to a minerals deal."

Trump's national security adviser said Zelenskyys posture during Fridays Oval Office talks put up in the air whether hes someone the U.S. administration will be able to deal with going forward.

Is he ready, personally, politically, to move his country towards an end to the fighting? Mike Waltz said Monday on Fox News' Americas Newsroom. "And can he and will he make the compromises necessary?

Waltz added another layer of doubt about U.S. support as other high-profile Trump allies, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Sen. Lindsey Graham, have suggested that the relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy is becoming untenable.

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Angela Stent, a former national intelligence officer for Russia and Eurasia at the National Intelligence Council, said Putin is likely in no rush to end the war amid the fissures between Trump and Zelenskyy and between Europe and the U.S. about the way ahead.

He thinks Russia is winning. ... And he thinks that as time goes on, the West will be more fractured," said Stent, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington.

Trump on Monday suggested he hasn't given up on the economic pact, calling it a great deal. He added that he expected to speak about the deal during his Tuesday address before a joint session of Congress.

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Pennsylvania Republican who co-chairs the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, spoke with Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, earlier Monday about getting the mineral rights deal back on track.

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Key GOP senators also indicated before the announcement of paused aid that they see a path to put U.S.-Ukraine relations back on track.

We got to lower the temperature, said Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., and get to a deal thats economically beneficial and takes care of our interests as well as the interests of the Ukrainian people.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin, an Oklahoma Republican who is a close ally of Trump, said he believes the president and Zelenskyy can move past it.

Getting the minerals deal done is a first step, Mullin said. After that, he said, Zelenskyy needs to be realistic on what a peace deal looks like.

___

Associated Press writers Tracy Brown, Lolita C. Baldor and Marc Levy contributed to this report.
President Donald Trump will deliver a national address before Congress this week that is expected to touch on a number of key national security issues, including Pentagon reforms and the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The speech  which is not officially a State of the Union address, but has the same goals  is scheduled for 9 p.m. on Tuesday. It comes just a few days after Trump sparred with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a White House meeting, and amid increasing tensions between the two countries over military support for Ukraines defense against Russia.

White House officials have not revealed any speech previews yet, but Trump is expected to address that conflict and his broader efforts to increase U.S. military might through budget and personnel changes.

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In the last few weeks, the White House has proposed cutting more than 5,000 civilian defense workers and reassigning at least $50 billion in budgetary plans to increase Defense Department efficiency and better focus on warfighting priorities.

Tuesday, March 4

Senate Armed Services  9:30 a.m.  106 Dirksen

Nominations

The committee will consider the nomination of Elbridge Colby to be under secretary of defense for policy.



Senate Foreign Relations  10 a.m.  419 Dirksen

Nominations

The committee will consider several nominations, including Christopher Landau to be deputy secretary of state.



House and Senate Veterans Affairs  10 a.m.  650 Dirksen

Veterans organizations

Veterans groups, including the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Paralyzed Veterans of America, will present their legislative priorities for the coming year.





Wednesday, March 5

House Homeland Security  10 a.m.  310 Cannon

Chinese Threats

Outside experts will testify on U.S. efforts to counter threats from China to U.S. national security.



House Transportation  10 a.m.  2167 Rayburn

Coast Guard Infrastructure

Service officials will testify on acquisition and infrastructure needs.



Senate Foreign Relations  10 a.m.  419 Dirksen

Western Hemisphere

Outside experts will testify on American interests in the Western Hemisphere.



House Veterans' Affairs  10:15 a.m.  360 Cannon

Pending Legislation

The committee will consider several pending bills, including the Defrauding VA Benefits Act.



House Foreign Affairs  2 p.m.  2172 Rayburn

Turkey

Outside experts will testify on the current situation in Turkey and national security implications for America.



Senate Armed Services  2:30 p.m.  106 Russell

U.S. Transportation Command

Gen. Randall Reed, head of U.S. Transportation Command, will testify on the fiscal 2026 budget request.




The last time President Donald Trump climbed the rostrum in the House chamber to deliver an address to Congress, he arrived freshly impeached, a mysterious new virus was beginning to spread and Democrats had just begun the process of nominating his challenger.

Five years later, the political landscape has shifted dramatically.

Since taking office a second time, Trump has overseen a dramatic reshaping of the federal government, much of it at the hand of his top adviser Elon Musk, and Republicans are in full control of Congress. He has upended the geopolitical order and shaken US alliances as he pursues a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine  a topic he said Monday hed address in the speech.

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But four months after becoming the first Republican in two decades to win the popular vote, Trump faces a new reality of needing to tackle some of the most stubborn challenges awaiting any new president and deliver on his campaign promises to lower prices.

Trumps advisers are acutely aware how quickly political winds can shift in Washington and have made speed their priority in pushing his agenda. Trump himself has taken a lesson from his first term not to wait for the right moment to execute on his promises. Instead, he signs executive orders almost every day, sometimes deciding only in the minutes beforehand which to put his signature on.

His speech to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday night will act as an extension  and explanation  of the whiplash-inducing 43 days of his new term. He will also face his biggest audience yet to spell out demands for Republicans to turn his agenda into law, the outcome of which will ultimately shape the success of his presidency.

Tomorrow night will be big, Trump wrote Monday on social media. I will tell it like it is.

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Musk, the worlds richest man who has emerged as one of the most visible and influential advisers to Trump, will be in the House chamber for the speech, a White House official told CNN, and will be held up as a leading example of the administrations swift action to change Washington.

Entire agencies  which in a previous age would be sending their priorities to the White House for inclusion in the speech  have been gutted in the new Trump era. Tens of thousands of federal workers have lost their jobs. The row of generals who typically sit at the front of the House Chamber are now handpicked by Trump, their predecessors summarily dismissed.

While the presidents speechwriting team has been working on multiple drafts, aides said Monday that Trump has spent little time on the address  aside from a few theatrical moments that are intended to resonate with the audience on television and inside the House chamber. The White House said the theme of the speech was, The renewal of the American Dream.

Unlike during Trumps first term, top adviser Stephen Miller hasnt taken the lead in crafting this speech, leaving the task to other speechwriters. However, he and Trumps other senior aides will all be involved in edits heading into Tuesday evening.

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The presidents address comes amid a persistent disagreement among House and Senate Republicans over how to enact a budget that aims to reduce spending, protect Social Security and make permanent the signature tax cuts from Trumps first term. He is poised to rally Republicans behind his agenda, advisers said, without offering specific guidance for how to achieve it.

One Trump adviser said a goal of the presidents speech would be connecting his rapid-pace actions so far to average Americans who may not yet comprehend the motives behind them. So, too, is Trump likely to address his plan to lower prices, although the specific contours of his speech were still coming together Monday.

Trump is expected to take a victory lap, touting his election win  something he argues delivered him a mandate to enact sweeping change, despite its relatively small margin  as well as lauding what one senior White House official referred to as the successes and accomplishments from his first six weeks in office.

The speech will be heavily focused on his domestic agenda, the official told CNN, with Trump previewing his core policy proposals for the next four years.

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Still, one of the main areas of interest is how the president uses the global stage to address the wars abroad, specifically between Russia and Ukraine.

Trump has discarded decades of American foreign policy orthodoxy, forging ahead in pursuit of new deals with countries like Russia  while other allies like Ukraine are left as collateral damage. Foreign ambassadors who customarily attend the address have been scrambling to explain the changes to their capitals.

It was only a year ago that Biden administration officials tried to get Olena Zelenska, the wife of Ukraines president, to Washington as a guest at the 2024 State of the Union speech (she couldnt make it, citing scheduling conflicts). Trumps address comes four days after Trump castigated her husband in the Oval Office.

Trump said a day ahead of the speech that he would address the Ukraine situation.

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Well, Ill let you know. Were making a speech, you probably heard about it tomorrow night, so Ill let you know tomorrow night, he said. But no, I dont think so. I think, look, its a great deal for us.

On the campaign trail, Trump frequently spoke highly of authoritarian leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling them smart and tough and lauding their close relationship. Hes continued to use that language in office, speaking favorably of Putin while publicly dressing down Zelensky.

Whatever ends up in his final speech text will be subject to the usual Trump caveat: what appears in the teleprompter isnt always what the president says. A major question heading into his speech is whether Trump hopes to appear presidential and calls for unity, or follows his impulse to appeal to his base.

In his 2020 speech, Trump staged a surprise reunion with a soldier and his family and bestowed the presidential Medal of Freedom upon conservative radio icon Rush Limbaugh.

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An open question is how Democrats respond in the room. Party leaders are still scrambling to settle on a message and a plan for how to present a counterbalance to Trump, mindful of the drubbing that Democrats took in the November elections. The party has tapped freshman Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan to deliver the formal rebuttal, an often thankless task that can still elevate a junior politicians profile.

Back in 2020, Trumps rivals felt emboldened. After his address that year, then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi could be seen on camera ripping up a copy of Trumps speech when he concluded.

For now, Trump has mostly plowed through much of the organized opposition to his agenda. And although lower-courts have paused some of his administrations efforts to dismantle the government, legal battles are likely heading to the Supreme Court, whose justices  who usually sit stone-faced during the presidential address  count three of Trumps own nominees in their number.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, who will sit behind Trumps left shoulder, has proven more than willing to accommodate the presidents whims.

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There is no daylight between the House Republicans and Senate Republicans, Johnson told CNN. We all have exactly the same idea and mission and that is to deliver the America First agenda.

That is not to say all Republicans are fully on board. Some lawmakers been bombarded with constituent phone calls and berated at town halls by voters irate at the dramatic cuts to the federal government.

Most broadly support Trumps mission to slash federal spending and reduce the size of the government. Its the methods they object to, and have spoken out against.

Ahead of the speech, multiple measures of Trumps performance showed the negative outpacing the positive. Forty-eight percent of Americans said they approved of his job performance in a CNN poll released Sunday, compared to 52% who disapproved. (The poll was conducted before his Friday meeting with Zelensky.)

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When asked whether Trump has the right priorities, 40% of the respondents said yes, compared to 52% who said no. Doubts about the presidents priorities extended to a small but notable share of those who expressed support for the president on other measures in the poll: 12% of those who approve of the way Trump has handled the presidency say his priorities havent yet been in the right place.

Trumps overall 48% approval is ahead of where he stood before his first address to congress in 2017.

But if hes hoping for a boost, he may be disappointed. Trumps appearances before Congress during his first term did little to move the needle on his approval rating.

This story has been updated with additional comments from Trump.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The Trump administration plans to put the former leader of an anti-union advocacy group in charge of the Labor Departments office that oversees financial disclosures by unions and union-busting consultants, HuffPost has learned.

Elisabeth Messenger, who served as the CEO of the Oklahoma-based Americans for Fair Treatment, or AFFT, is expected to be the new director of the federal governments Office of Labor-Management Standards, according to two sources with knowledge of the situation.

Billed as a member organization, AFFT promotes right-to-work laws and advises public-sector workers like teachers on how to opt out of paying union dues. Having challenges with your public-sector union? We can help! the groups site promises.

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Although AFFTs staff page lists Chip Rogers as its current CEO, a separate page on the site still lists Messenger as a chief executive. It says she previously worked in the publicity department of Atlantic Records before joining the group in 2020.

AFFT did not respond to a HuffPost voicemail seeking comment Friday.

As the head of OLMS, Messenger would be charged with making sure unions, as well as anti-union consultants, make lawful disclosures to the government about their work. While labor groups must file annual reports detailing their finances, employers and consultants must also report certain money spent trying to defeat union organizing campaigns.

Messengers background suggests the administration may ramp up oversight of unions while shifting away from enforcement against the so-called persuaders who campaign against unions.

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Its not just a bureaucrat  theyre putting a real ideologue in there, said Bob Funk, director of the watchdog group LaborLab, which tracks anti-union spending by corporations.

President Donald Trump smiles as he signs executive orders in the Oval Office of the White House, Jan. 23, 2025, in Washington. AP Photo/Ben Curtis

Funk said he expects a much different focus than under former President Joe Biden, when OLMS made a point of trying to bring employers and anti-union groups into compliance with the law. Moving forward, he expects a crackdown on the union side.

It seems likely theyll go after not just public-sector unions but worker centers, too, he said, referencing groups that advocate for workers but are not considered unions under the law.

Trump made a point of currying favor with some unions during his most recent presidential run, but his choice of Messenger to run OLMS wont do organized labor any favors. She has been outspoken about what she sees as union bullying and corruption, particularly in the public sector.

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In a 2022 podcast interview with the anti-union consultant Peter List, Messenger bemoaned the fact that private-sector workers can be required to pay union dues if they receive the benefits of a union contract.

Time and time again, I see when youre a member of a union, you are giving up your individual voice, you are giving up your power, she said. It just infuriates me. A lot of these workers just did not have a choice.

Related...
Mike Waltz, US President Donald Trump's National Security Advisor, has hinted that the Trump administration is ready to resume work with Ukraine on an agreement to ensure access to rare earth minerals.

Source: Waltz on Fox News, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Waltz was asked whether Donald Trump plans to announce a solution to the minerals deal issue during his State of the Union address, which is scheduled for 4 March.

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In response, he said that the Trump administration had expected the deal to be signed on Friday and hinted at a willingness to continue negotiations.

"We were planning to announce this minerals deal. That it would have been signed Friday and was a very positive step forward for all sides... That was the plan. We'll see what happens in the next 48 hours, but we are certainly looking to move forward in a positive way," Waltz said.

Background:

On Sunday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the proposed investment agreement to provide access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals is not currently being discussed.

On Friday, the presidents of Ukraine and the United States and US Vice President JD Vance had an altercation in the Oval Office. Trump, among other things, accused Zelenskyy of "gambling with World War III".

European leaders and EU officials publicly expressed their support for Ukraine following the clash between Zelenskyy and Trump in the Oval Office.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
President Donald Trump has said Ukraine  not Russia  started the war. Hes called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy  not Vladimir Putin  a dictator. Meanwhile, Trumps administration is standing down on a suite of tough anti-Kremlin policies.

In just over a month, Trump has executed a startling realignment of American foreign policy, effectively throwing U.S. support behind Moscow and rejecting the tight alliance with Kyiv cultivated by former President Joe Biden.

The extraordinary pivot has upended decades of hawkish foreign policy toward Russia that provided a rare area of bipartisan consensus in an increasingly divided nation. Trumps recent moves have drawn international attention, unsettling U.S. allies in Europe and thrilling conservative populists who favor a turn away from Zelenskyy.

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The new posture was put in stark relief on Friday during a tense Oval Office meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy. The leaders clashed in front of the press, raising questions about the future of American support for Kyiv, more than three years after Russia opened the largest conflict in Europe since World War II.

U.S. officials have made a series of policy changes in recent weeks that seem to herald a more cooperative stance with Russia:

The White House ordered a pause on military aid to Ukraine as the administration carries out a review, a White House official and a U.S. official told NBC News on Monday.

Late last week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the U.S. Cyber Command to cease offensive cyber operations and information operations against Russia, a U.S. official familiar with the matter told NBC News. Its unclear how long the order will last.

Attorney General Pam Bondi, on her first day in office, disbanded efforts to seize the assets of Russian oligarchs, breaking up Biden-era programs known as Task Force Klepto Capture and the Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative.

In a separate directive, Bondi ordered a halt to a federal law enforcement initiative to combat secret influence campaigns by Russia, China and other traditional U.S. adversaries that attempt to sow division in U.S. politics.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other top Trump administration officials traveled to Saudi Arabia last month to start peace negotiations with Russia  but Zelenskyy said Ukrainian officials hadnt been invited.

Trump has long professed a desire to reset and improve relations with Russia. He has repeatedly said he believes it is in the national interest to get along with Moscow and cast doubt on the value of core parts of the post-World War II global security architecture, including NATO and the European Union. Trumps first term was shadowed by former special counsel Robert Muellers Russia investigation  a probe that Trump has repeatedly dismissed as the Russia hoax.

President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin meet in Helsinki in 2018.

Trump has pushed back on Democrats and other critics who have accused him of deferring to Russia.

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Im not aligned with Putin. Im not aligned with anybody. Im aligned with the United States of America, and for the good of the world, Im aligned with the world, and I want to get this thing over with," Trump said Friday from the Oval Office, referring to the Russia-Ukraine war.

But the U.S. government now appears to be pivoting away from Kyiv. In the weeks since his inauguration, Trump has suggested Ukraine was responsible for Russias invasion and started the war, echoing familiar talking points from the Kremlin.

The president's relationship with Zelenskyy has long been fraught, partly owing to a July 2019 phone call in which Trump pressured the Ukrainian leader to investigate Joe Biden and his son Hunter over the latter's position on the board of a Ukrainian energy company. After the call leaked, it helped touch off the first impeachment of Trump. (He was ultimately acquitted by the Senate.)

Vice President JD Vance has likewise been consistently skeptical of continued U.S. assistance to Ukraines government.

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The bitter irony of Americas present predicament is that the very people who cheer for permanent arms shipments to Ukraine also supported the de-industrialization of America, Vance said in a post on X on Sunday. The very things you want us to send are things we dont make enough of.

Trumps approach is a dramatic departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy toward Russia, a period spanning the Cold War with the former Soviet Union as well as the rise of Putin. American presidents, Republicans and Democrats alike, typically struck a more bellicose tone on the threat posed by an emboldened Russia.

Putins regime has welcomed the overtures from Trump. In statements reported by Russian state media agency TASS, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov praised Trump as a pragmatist who operates with common sense.

We see that the collective West has begun to partially lose its unity, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters in Moscow on Monday.

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Democrats and anti-Trump Republican commentators have sharply criticized the administration since the Oval Office meeting, accusing Trump of effectively selling out Ukraine. In a post on his Truth Social platform early Monday, Trump defended himself and insisted he had helped keep much of Ukraine intact.

The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is President Donald J. Trump, he wrote in the post. Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticize, and the Fake News gladly puts out anything they say!

But there is a partisan divide on Ukraine; Gallup recently found that 84% of Democrats have a favorable view of Ukraine, whereas only 54% of Republican poll respondents said the same.

In the wake of the Trump-Zelenskyy spat, a handful of Republican lawmakers defended Ukraine, while most  including House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C.  said Zelenskyy may have to resign.

President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy meet Friday in the Oval Office.

The feud between continued Monday, with Trump disparaging his Ukrainian counterpart in a post on social media.

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Trump is by no means the first president to aim for a less hostile relationship with Moscow, however. Barack Obama and his first secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, embarked on a high-profile bid to reset relations with Russia. But those efforts largely fell apart after Putin invaded Crimea and seized it from Ukraine in 2014.

The relationship between Biden and Zelenskyy showed signs of strain, too. NBC News has reported that Biden lost his temper with Zelenskyy during a phone call in June 2022, according to four people familiar with the call. Biden raised his voice and said Zelenskyy could afford to show more gratitude for the billions in U.S. military assistance for Kyiv.

Biden and his top diplomats nonetheless worked to rally international support for Kyivs resistance to Moscow; the United Kingdom, France and other European allies joined the fight.

The disagreement between Biden and Zelenskyy came in a private phone call  not a public dressing down in the Oval Office. During their meeting, Trump told Zelenskyy he should be much more grateful as the conversation grew more tense, ending with the Ukraine leader leaving the U.S. without signing a minerals deal.

You got to be more thankful, because, let me tell you, you dont have the cards, Trump said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
President Trump said Monday a proposed economic deal between the U.S. and Ukraine was still on the table, but he argued Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky needed to be more appreciative of U.S. support.

Trump took questions from reporters on the heels of a confrontational meeting with Zelensky late last week after which Trump called off peace talks and an agreement for the U.S. to invest in Ukraines critical mineral supply went unsigned.

Asked if the deal was dead, Trump said, I dont think so.

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Its a great deal for us, because you know Biden very, very foolishly, stupidly, frankly, gave $300 billion  to a country to fight and to try and do things. And you know what happened? We get nothing.

Asked what Zelensky needed to do to restart negotiations, Trump said the Ukrainian leader needed to express more gratitude for U.S. assistance.

I just think he should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin, Trump said. Weve given them much more than Europe, and Europe should have given more than us because as you know thats right there.

As of the end of fiscal 2024, Congress had approved nearly $183 billion in Ukraine aid, according to a federal government oversight office. The European Union has contributed roughly $145 billion in total assistance to Ukraine since the war began.

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Trump told reporters he had not yet discussed whether the U.S. would suspend continued aid for Ukraine in its war against Russia.

Trump earlier in the day took issue with Zelensky saying the end of Ukraines war with Russia is still very, very far away. Moscow invaded Ukraine without provocation more than three years ago.

He better not be right about that, Trump said.

Zelensky arrived at the White House on Friday, where he was expected to meet with Trump and sign off on a deal that would give the U.S. access to Ukraines critical mineral supply. Trump had touted the deal as a way for the U.S. to recoup some of the aid it had provided to Ukraine in its war against Russia, while boosting Ukraines economy in the long term.

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But after roughly a half-hour of relatively cordial back-and-forth, the meeting devolved into chaos, with Trump and Vice President Vance accusing Zelensky of being ungrateful for U.S. support and of having little leverage in talks.

Trump has pushed for an end to the war in Ukraine, speaking with both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. He met last week with European allies from France and the United Kingdom, both of whom argued any peace deal had to have guarantees that guarded against future Russian aggression.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Donald Trump is reportedly refusing to engage in talks with his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky unless the latter issues a public apology, according to Fox News.

White House correspondent Peter Doocy shared that a senior White House official told him no progress will happen on the U.S.-Ukraine minerals deal until Zelensky goes in front of cameras and makes an explicit public apology for the way he behaved in the Oval Office.

Doocy: "I have been told by a senior official here that nothing is gonna happen with this minerals deal until Zelenskyy goes in front of cameras and makes an explicit public apology for the way he behaved in the Oval Office with that meeting." pic.twitter.com/y3IzXIXdLh  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) March 3, 2025

Zelensky and Trump were supposed to hash out a deal for Ukraine to allocate revenues from natural resources to the U.S. and address continued American support to Ukraine in the war with Russia on Friday, but Zelensky left the White House early when the televised Oval Office meeting turned into a heated argument.

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During the meeting, Trump and Vice President JD Vance accused Zelensky of not being grateful for U.S. support to Ukraine. Trump later followed up with a post on Truth Social, saying Zelensky had disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office.

The specifics of the desired apology are unclear, but Zelenskys attire at the meeting was one factor that irritated Trump, reports Axios. White House officials had reportedly told Zelenskys team that it would be best for the Ukrainian leader to wear a suit to the meeting, but Zelensky opted for a more casual black outfit.

President Donald Trump greets Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky as he arrives at the White House. / Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

He is all dressed up today, Trump remarked upon Zelenskys arrival at the West Wing.

On Sunday, Zelensky said that he would return to the White House if invited and is still willing to have a constructive dialogue with the U.S. Its unclear, however, if Zelensky would give into Trumps demands for a public apology, or if a second meeting would fare any better than the last.

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On Sunday, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz suggested that Ukraine needed to give up territory to Russia to end the war. Russia, which launched a full invasion in 2022, currently controls around 20 percent of Ukrainian territory, according to BBC.

But Ukraine and most international observers see the annexation of Ukrainian land as illegal. Ukrainian foreign ministry spokesman Georgiy Tykhy has called Russias claims to Ukrainian land laughable.
Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared on Fox News last week to tease a major event: The Justice Department would release long-awaited documents related to accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

But as reporters waited inside the department and members of public watched for the tranche of documents to be released Thursday, a surprising video emerged online of several right-wing social media personalities streaming out of the White House waving small binders that read, The Epstein Files: Phase 1.

The intent of the unannounced event was clear  get the message out from favorable figures online to drum up support for President Donald Trumps message of transparency.

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The episode encapsulated the Trump Justice Departments unconventional approach to public relations. The strategy is in part led by White House adviser Stephen Miller and designed to keep Trumps agenda at the forefront, sources told CNN. Miller regularly works with a team of younger aides inside the departments Office of Public Affairs to shape the messaging strategy, the sources said.

But the files inside the binder were already in the public domain. Allies of the president were disappointed, and the strategy backfired.

I hate to say it, but the American people cant trust the validity of the Epstein files released today, far-right activist Laura Loomer said in a post on X after the reveal. It was released in an unprofessional manner with paid, partisan social media influencers to curate their binders for us. I cant trust anything in the binder. Neither should you.

Millers close communications are illustrative Trumps political goal to end the traditional independence of the Justice Department by filling key roles with partisan loyalists rather than career officials.

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DOJ officials told CNN that Miller talks to a wide range of individuals across the administration and said that his position as Trumps homeland security adviser makes him intricately involved in the Justice Departments immigration enforcement actions.

Still, the unusual strategy  working closely with the White House instead of seasoned public affairs professionals  has muddled the Justice Departments messaging, despite its leader, Bondi, having decades of experience in public life as a prosecutor. One month in, her tenure has so far been marked by missteps and gaffes beyond the Epstein documents.

The messaging has not been great, one senior administration official conceded.

A Justice Department spokesperson told CNN in a statement that President Trumps Department of Justice is laser-focused on making our streets safe, deporting criminal illegals, and ending the weaponization of our justice system, and any assertion otherwise ignores the record-setting first-month accomplishments of this administration.

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The White House will always amplify the accomplishments across the Trump Administration, including the consequential work of Attorney General Pam Bondi who is working to bring transparency and integrity back to the DOJ, White House deputy press secretary Harrison Fields told CNN. This is a welcomed change to the previous administration whose Justice Department took over the PR strategy of the Democratic National Committee.

Sidelining career officials

Trump officials have been wary of relying on career employees across the administration, a dynamic that has also played out inside the Justice Departments public affairs office.

During previous Democratic and Republican administrations, the office has been led by a team of political appointees with considerable experience in public relations. That team would oversee a staff made up of both political appointees and career spokespeople who serve across administrations with decades of experience.

Over the past several weeks, however, the political appointees now running the public affairs office have largely ignored career officials, and, therefore, operated without their communications expertise.

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One longtime Justice Department spokesman, Joshua Stueve, resigned Thursday, citing the growing divide between career and political staff.

In his resignation letter, Stueve, a disabled Marine Corps veteran who served in nonpartisan public affairs roles for both the Defense and Justice departments for 15 years, described how previous administrations had treated the career staff with respect and dignity. But, he said, that had come to an end with the second Trump administration.

I cannot continue to serve in such a hostile and toxic work environment, one where leadership at the highest levels makes clear we are not welcome or valued, much less trusted to do our jobs, Stueve wrote in his resignation letter.

Missteps in DC and New York

In her first press conference the week after she was confirmed by the Senate, Bondi announced a lawsuit against several New York officials over so-called sanctuary policies that limit the states cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

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Bondi, however, misspoke from the lectern by saying that the department had filed charges, which is only possible in a criminal case. Though minor, the accident caused confusion in what the legal step actually entailed, including whether Democratic officials like New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Attorney General Letitia James were going to be arrested.

One of Bondis aides clarified after the press conference had concluded that it was a civil case, but the department did not send the filing out or even say which federal court district it would appear in for several hours.

Department officials told CNN the lawsuits sharing was delayed because it had not been publicly filed in a court docket and noted the lawsuit was part of a series of challenges to sanctuary cities that Bondi had publicly touted.

Two weeks later, as the Justice Department was managing the fallout of its efforts to dismiss the criminal corruption case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, a fracture in messaging emerged between some of its leaders.

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In the initial memo ordering the Adams case to be dropped, acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove said that the DOJ was doing so without assessing the strength of the evidence or the legal theories on which the case is based. But moments before Bove entered a courtroom in New York to make that case to a judge, Justice Department chief of staff Chad Mizelle made a contradictory series of social media posts laying out a detailed critique of the evidence in the case. He also noted that the Supreme Court has made it difficult to bring corruption cases, and wrote that any attempt to successfully prosecute Adams would require significant resources.

The hundreds of pages of Epstein-related documents that Bondi released Thursday, billed as a symbol of transparency, again brought forward the departments struggle with a clear messaging strategy. Trump supporters and other members of the public waited for the documents to be posted online only to be disappointed by their contents, pushing some to criticize the rollout.

One Republican congresswoman said the release was complete disappointment. A conservative influencer who left the White House with one of the coveted binders said he left with an interesting souvenir. Fox News described it as a botched rollout.

But while the files themselves didnt garner support, one part of the release did: a letter from Bondi to FBI Director Kash Patel alleging that a source within the bureau told her that thousands of pages of additional documents about the investigation and indictment of Epstein had been withheld by the FBIs New York field office. The attorney general demanded an investigation into why the documents were hidden and promised to release them once in her possession.

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The letter once again laid bare the tensions between the Trump administration and the FBI over the bureaus investigative actions during the previous administration. Patel, who started in the director job only days before, said in a statement that there will be no cover-ups, no missing documents, and no stone left unturned  and anyone from the prior or current Bureau who undermines this will be swiftly pursued. If there are gaps, we will find them. If records have been hidden, we will uncover them.

This story has been updated with additional comment.

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To grasp what may soon happen to Volodymyr Zelensky, consider one of the shabbiest episodes of 20th century diplomacy.

At 2am on September 21, 1938, Basil Newton, the British Ambassador to Czechoslovakia, arrived at Prague Castle and demanded to see President Edvard Benes.

Once the Head of State had been fetched from his bedroom, Newton told him to accept the plan devised by Britain, France and Hitler to hand over a quarter of Czechoslovakia to Germany. Neville Chamberlain wanted to convey Czechoslovakias response to the Fuhrer the next day, so instant agreement was required. Benes, abandoned by his allies, acquiesced later that morning.

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Its all too easy to imagine a replay of this scene in Kyiv, with an American envoy arriving in the dead of night to browbeat Mr Zelensky into accepting a peace plan agreed over his head by Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, requiring the sacrifice of about a fifth of Ukraine.

The bearer of this demand will not be a man called Basil; one candidate might be the scowling New York property dealer Steve Witkoff, who serves as Mr Trumps special envoy and boasts of developing a friendship with Putin.

The emergency summit in London on Sunday and all of Sir Keir Starmers diplomacy is designed to avoid this scenario. The Prime Minister is trying to bridge the trans-Atlantic divide by devising a peace plan that Ukraine and the rest of Europe could live with. The idea is that Britain and France would sell this proposal to Mr Trump, who would then take it to Russia and demand swift agreement.

If this happens, the West would be reunited and Sir Keir liberated from choosing between Europe and America. Best of all, Putin  not Ukraine  would find himself on the receiving end of Washingtons pressure.

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All very clever, if it works. Yet the Prime Minister cannot avoid binary decisions between allies; in fact he has already taken one.

Last Monday in the UN, America lined up with Russia to support a Resolution on Ukraine which failed to condemn or even mention Putins invasion. The British mission at the UN will have come under intense pressure from their American colleagues to back the Resolution. Instead, Sir Keir defied these demands and joined France to abstain.

The Prime Minister should steel himself for what may be the next binary choice  and one that would be infinitely more momentous.

Behind the scenes, Americas diplomacy with Russia could be making progress towards a conclusion. Representatives of the two countries held a public meeting on Ukraine in Saudi Arabias capital, Riyadh, on February 18.

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But US and Russian officials will almost certainly have been talking privately ever since. What if they are closing in on a peace plan for Ukraine that reflects Putins demands?

If so, America might ignore Sir Keir and go for a quick agreement on Russian terms. The only remaining step would be for a US envoy to confront Mr Zelensky with a deal that Ukraine cannot refuse.

After all he has been through, Mr Zelensky might well refuse anyway. He could stick to his position that he will on principle reject any settlement that Ukraine has been excluded from negotiating.

If that moment arrives, Sir Keir would have to decide whether Britains ironclad support for Ukraine extends to backing Mr Zelenskys rejection of a Trump peace agreement.

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Sir Keir should prepare for that possibility now. If an American Basil Newton hammers on the door of the Presidential office on Bankova street in Kyiv, the Prime Minister should back Mr Zelensky in his refusal to be another Edvard Benes.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting the Ukrainian president wont be around very long if he does not end the war soon.

The rift between the leaders appeared to deepen as he said a peace deal should not be that hard a deal to make.

He added: If somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long. That person will not be listened to very long. Because I believe that Russia wants to make a deal.

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Mr Trump had earlier condemned Mr Zelensky for saying that a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia is still very, very far away.

The US president said Mr Zelenskys remarks were the worst statement that could have been made, adding on social media: America will not put up with it for much longer!

Pivotal week ahead

The US wants Mr Zelensky to offer an immediate ceasefire and hardliners in the Trump administration, including Elon Musk, blame the Ukrainian leader for prolonging the war.

Members of Mr Trumps administration briefed on Monday that the Ukrainian president must publicly apologise for his part in last weeks Oval Office shouting match and declare that he wants peace before he can resume talks with Mr Trump.

Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky during the White House row on Friday - SAUL LOEB

European leaders also instructed Mr Zelensky to make up with Mr Trump during a UK-hosted summit at the weekend, it emerged.

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Mr Trumps latest attack on Mr Zelensky came at the start of what could be a pivotal week.

European leaders are frantically drawing up plans for peace to be signed off at an EU summit on Thursday, meanwhile Arab leaders are also set to present to Mr Trump a proposal for the future of Gaza.

Trump considering military aid cull

The Trump administration has reportedly stopped financing new weapons sales to Ukraine and is considering freezing weapon shipments.

In a move that threatens the Kyivs ability to fight in the crucial Spring months, Mr Trumps top team is weighing shutting down the main pipeline for arms transfers to Volodymyr Zelensky.

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The financing was halted as part of the administrations freeze on foreign aid last month, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Key figures of Mr Trumps administration are also considering curtailing intelligence sharing and training for Ukrainian troops and pilots, according to the Washington Post.

However, Mr Trump denied that he was currently considering cutting military aid, I havent even talked about that right now, he said.

Meanwhile the White House is signalling closer relations with Vladimir Putin and on Monday Mr Trump ordered treasury officials to draft a list of sanctions that could be eased on Russia.

A rally in front of the US embassy in Warsaw on March 3 - WOJTEK RADWANSKI

Mr Trumps cabinet is understood to be split on how to handle Mr Zelensky following Fridays fallout in the oval office.

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Some are pushing for Mr Zelensky to resign after a peace deal is reached, a key Russian request.

The Institute for the Study of War, an influential US think tank, warned on Monday that the Kremlin will likely intensify its war effort and exploit any delay or cessation of US military assistance to Ukraine.

Fractures in coalition of the willing

In Europe cracks began to show on Monday in Sir Keir Starmers coalition of the willing, which is working on a plan for a prolonged ceasefire and European security guarantees in exchange for peace.

Italy partially rejected Emmanuel Macrons proposal for a one-month truce in Ukraine, saying that the plans were premature.

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I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and especially a long-lasting peace, Antonio Tajani, Italys foreign minister, said on Monday.

Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it, he added.

Sir Keir suggested he would not send British troops into Ukraine without first having secured vital security guarantees from the US.

Keir Starmer before addressing the House of Commons on Monday - Dan Kitwood

In a debate in the Commons, the Prime Minister said there would be a vote in Parliament before any sustained deployment of troops.

He was told by Tory MP Andrew Murrisson, a former defence minister, that the armed forces always stand ready to do their duty.

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He added: Would the Prime Minister agree with me that it would be utter folly if the United Kingdom or France or Norway or Canada sent their sons and daughters into harms way without all necessary security guarantees from the United States?

Sir Keir replied: I do agree with him and thats why Im working so hard on security guarantees that are worthy of the name; that is a forward-leaving European element with US backing which is vital if its to act as a guarantee, and of course thats uppermost in my mind.

The Ukrainian president was unanimously told to patch up relations with his US counterpart at a weekend summit hosted by Sir Keir, The Telegraph can reveal.

That was pretty much unanimously shared by all of the leaders there, an official briefed on the talks told the paper.

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We cant do this without the US.

After urging Ukraines war-time leader to apologise to Mr Trump, European leaders discussed how they can keep the US president on side by boosting their own defence spending.

Leaders agreed that ramping up military expenditure was the key to peace through strength for Ukraine, as well as to provide a credible proposition to the US, in order to keep them onside, the official added.

That undoubtedly would have to include security guarantees as well.

Increase in EU defence spending

On Tuesday, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commissions president, will set out plans being devised in Brussels to increase EU defence spending.

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Her proposals will be discussed at a special summit of European Union leaders, and Mr Zelensky, in the Belgian capital on Thursday, along with a potential peace deal.

An EU official said: There was general agreement on the need for European countries to increase defence spending and military capabilities. This was considered by many to be an important contribution to strengthening the transatlantic relation.

European leaders also agreed that any ceasefire to stop fighting between Russia and Ukraine would need Mr Trumps input.

There was broad convergence on the importance of continuing to work closely with the US, namely in the context of Nato, to ensure that any ceasefire will be a step towards a just and lasting peace.

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The official said there was wide support for Mr Trumps mantra of peace through strength, which European leaders agreed should start with increased military support to Ukraine as the main component of post-war security guarantees.

Starmer was joined by 19 international leaders in London to discuss an alternative peace proposal to Trumps plan for Ukraine - JAVAD PARSA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The first layer of those security guarantees will be Ukraines armed forces, who therefore must continue to be supported, the official said.

European contributions to additional security guarantees must be developed hand in hand with the US, they added.

Meanwhile, the UK Government appeared to distance itself from Lord Mandelson, the UK ambassador to the US, after he suggested Europe should give unequivocal backing to the initiative Mr Trump is taking.

Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, slapped down the comments, saying it was not government policy.

Lord Mandelson has embarked on a charm offence since arriving in Washington after previous comments suggesting Mr Trump a danger to the world outraged key figures inside the administration.

Along with proposals on a Ukrainian ceasefire, Mr Trump will also likely be examining a plan for Gaza this week.

Arab countries are reportedly nearing agreement on an alternative plan for Gaza to proposals laid out by the US.

The scheme would reportedly sideline Hamas and replace it with interim bodies controlled by both Arab, Muslim and Western states.

Reuters reported that the Egyptian-led vision for Gaza will be presented at an Arab League summit on Tuesday.

Hamas has previously rejected any idea of a future for the enclave being imposed on Palestinians by outside states.

On Monday, Israel said Hamas had enough food to fuel an obesity epidemic for its fighters.

08:30 PM GMT

Thats all for now

Thanks for following our coverage. This live blog is now closed. Highlights from today include:

Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on Volodymyr Zelensky for suggesting the end of the war in Ukraine is very far away

Mr Trump suggested the Ukrainian president wont be around very long if he does not bring the war to end soon

Sir Keir Starmer said Britain would play a leading role in securing peace in Ukraine

Mr Trump said he had not had talks on whether to withdraw military aid from Kyiv as peace talks stall

Mr Zelensky said he is counting on US support on the path to peace while the US refuses to give concrete security guarantees

08:06 PM GMT

Trump hasnt talked about withdrawing Ukraine aid

Donald Trump is asked whether he is planning to cut off military aid to Ukraine. I havent even talked about that right now, the US President says.

08:04 PM GMT

Ukraine wants to make a deal

Ukraine wants to make a deal to end the war, Donald Trump has said, after claiming that Volodymyr Zelensky was ungrateful for US support.

It should not be that hard a deal to make. It can be made very fast. Now maybe somebody doesnt want to make a deal, then if somebody doesnt want to make a deal, I think that person wont be around very long, the US President told reporters.

Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the Roosevelt Room - REUTERS/Leah Millis

That person will not be listened to very long. Because I believe that Russia wants to make a deal.

I believe certainly the people of Ukraine want to make a deal. Theyre suffered more than anybody else.

At another point, Mr Trump referenced a quote attributed to Mr Zelensky from the Associated Press: He thinks the wars going to go on for a long time and he better not be right about that - thats all Im saying.



08:01 PM GMT

Zelensky should be more appreciative

Volodymyr Zelensky needs to be more appreciative for US military support, Donald Trump has said.

The US President, asked by a reporter about how Mr Zelensky could restart negotiations over a rare earths deal, said: I think he should be more appreciative, because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin.

07:19 PM GMT

US drawing up plan to lift sanctions on Russia, say sources

The United States is drawing up a plan to potentially give Russia sanctions relief, according to sources.

The White House has asked the State and Treasury departments to draft a list of sanctions that could be eased for US officials to discuss with Russian representatives in the coming days, a US official and another person familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The sanctions relief will include some Russian oligarchs, the sources said.

The efforts are part of the Trump administrations attempts to improve diplomatic and economic relations with Moscow and bring an end to the war in Ukraine.

07:02 PM GMT

Starmer: British jobs, skills and finance will help bring peace in Ukraine

During his early address in the Commons, Sir Keir Stramer said that: British jobs, British skills, and British finance will help secure peace in Ukraine.

The Prime Minister unveiled a partnership with Ukraine that will allow them to use 1.6 billion of UK Export Finance to buy 5,000 air defence missiles manufactured in Belfast.

That means British jobs, British skills, and British finance will pull together for our national interest, putting Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace.

Economic security is national security.



British jobs, British skills, and British finance will pull together for our national interest and put Ukraine in the strongest possible position for peace. pic.twitter.com/0VaZSYfcYm  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) March 3, 2025

06:48 PM GMT

Zelensky says he is counting on US support on path to peace

Volodymyr Zelensky said on Monday that he was hoping for US support on the path to peace, as Donald Trump again criticised his position on a ceasefire.

It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war as soon as possible, Mr Zelensky said in a statement.

We are working together with America and our European partners and very much hope on US support on the path to peace. Peace is needed as soon as possible.

Earlier, Mr Trump had accused the Ukrainian leader of making the worst statement after he said a peace deal was very far away. America will not put up with it for much longer! he added in a series of furious remarks.

06:37 PM GMT

Lib Dems: Trumps comments show UK can no longer rely on US

Calum Miller, the foreign affairs spokesman for the Liberal Democrats, said Donald Trumps comments show the UK can no longer rely on the US under his presidency.

He said: Trumps words confirm what we already know: that he would rather side with tyrants like Putin than support President Zelensky and the Ukrainian peoples brave defence of their country.

As we can no longer rely on America under Trump, the UK and Europe need to step up - to support Ukraines defence against Putins barbarism and to bolster our collective security.

Keir Starmer needs to build on the momentum from his weekend of shuttle diplomacy. He must go further and faster to seize the billions of frozen Russian assets which could be used to support Ukraine immediately, and work with our European partners to develop a new rearmament bank to help finance enhanced continental security.

06:26 PM GMT

Mandelsons call for Zelensky to make up with Trump not government policy

Lord Mandelsons calls for Volodymyr Zelensky to make up with Donald Trump and support his peace plan are not government policy, a minister has said.

In an interview over the weekend, Britains ambassador to the US said the Ukrainian president should give his unconditional backing to US proposals to end the three-year conflict.

But Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, distanced Downing Street from the suggestion and said that position was not the view of Sir Keir Starmers Government.

The comments follow a meeting between Mr Trump and Mr Zelensky on Friday that descended into acrimony as the US president accused his counterpart of risking World War Three.

Read the full article here.

Credit: ABC's This Week by George Stephanopoulos

06:08 PM GMT

EU trying to help Ukraine replace Musks Starlink

The European Commission is working out how it could help Ukraine secure alternative satellite communications amid concerns that Elon Musk will pull Kyivs access to his Starlink network.

Starlink plays a vital role in Ukraines battlefield communications, with 42,000 terminals providing space-based internet services to the military, medical facilities, businesses and aid workers.

Thomas Regnier, an Commission spokesman, said Kyiv had already expressed interest in how it could use the EUs Govsatcom network and IRIS, a new constellation expected to be operational in the 2030s.

The Commission will pursue its contacts with Ukraine in that regard, said Mr Regnier, according to Politico.

06:00 PM GMT

Tories accuse Farage of being as pro-Russia as Corbyn

The Tories have accused Nigel Farage of being as pro-Russia as Jeremy Corbyn.

The Reform UK leader said on Monday morning that Volodymyr Zelensky had been rude to Donald Trump in the Oval Office, and suggested he should have worn a suit.

Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said it was morally wrong for Mr Farage to criticise the Ukrainian president - and compared him to the former Left-wing Labour leader.

She tweeted: Like Jeremy Corbyn, the Leader of Reform UK seems to have history equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

Both Mr Farage and Mr Corbyn have been accused of being too close to Mr Putin.

While he was leader, Mr Corbyns spokesman questioned whether Russia was to blame for the Salisbury attack and suggested sending samples to Moscow so their labs could check them.

During a phone-in on LBC Radio, Mr Farage said: I think President Zelenskyy was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didnt back him...But I think in diplomatic terms Zelenskyy played it very badly.

Ms Patel said: Nigel Farage is completely wrong. President Zelenskyy is a hero, who has stood up to Putins aggression, and led his countrys defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last 3 years - and it is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that.

For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelenskyy is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive. At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.

05:50 PM GMT

French PM: Trump tried to humiliate Zelensky with staggering brutality

Frances prime minister tore into Donald Trump for his Oval Office row with Volodymyr Zelensky, calling it a staggering show of brutality that aimed to humiliate Ukraines leader.

In extraordinarily frank criticism of the US president, Francois Bayrou said on Monday: On Friday night, in the Oval Office of the White House, a staggering scene unfurled before the lenses of the entire world, marked by brutality, a desire to humiliate, with the goal of making Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy fold through threats.

Speaking at parliamentary debate on Ukraine, he added: President Zelenskyy did not fold and I think we can show him our appreciation.

Lawmakers got to their feet in the National Assembly chamber to applaud.

Francois Bayrou, Frances prime minister, criticised Donald Trumps brutal row with Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday - REUTERS

05:32 PM GMT

Italy shoots down Macrons Ukraine truce plan

Italy has partially rejected Emmanuel Macrons proposal for a one-month truce in Ukraine, saying that the plans were premature.

I believe that everything must be done together, Europe and United States, sitting at a table with Ukraine and Russia to reach a fair and especially a long-lasting peace, Antonio Tajani, Italys foreign minister, said on Monday.

Therefore, it is still premature to see what to do, how to do it, he added.

Following an emergency peace summit in London on Sunday, Mr Macron revealed he intended to propose a one-month ceasefire in Ukraine in the air, at sea, and that European soldiers would only be deployed as part of a second phase of a potential truce.

On Sunday, Giorgia Meloni said that the UK and France had supplied strong ideas about a Ukraine peace plan, but repeated her concerns about sending any European troops to Ukraine.

France, Britain and other European countries have offered to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, but say they would need support from the US as a backstop.

Addressing the Commons on Monday, Sir Keir Starmer said Washington remained vital to any European efforts to secure peace in Ukraine. The UK will never choose between either side of the Atlantic.

Giorgia Meloni attends an emergency summit to discuss peace in Ukraine in London on Sunday - Getty Images Europe

05:14 PM GMT

Watch: Starmer unveils four-point peace plan for Ukraine

05:04 PM GMT

Trump condemns Zelensky for saying peace deal is very far away

Donald Trump has furiously condemned Volodymyr Zelensky for saying that a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia is still very far away.

Writing on Truth Social, the US president said: This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.

Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia. What are they thinking? Mr Trump added.

Earlier on Monday, Mr Zelensky had said that a deal to end the three-year conflict is still very, very far away and added that he expects to keep receiving American support despite his ongoing spat with Mr Trump.

04:44 PM GMT

Trump will not withdraw military support for Ukraine, says Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer said he does not believe Washington will withdraw military support for Ukraine.

Asked about todays reports that Donald Trump was considering the option, Keir Starmer responded: As I understand, that is not their position.

04:22 PM GMT

Starmer: We should all support Zelensky and not fawn over Putin

Sir Keir made clear to MPs that Russia is the aggressor and Volodymyr Zelensky has done nothing wrong.

Answering questions from MPs, he said: Russia is the aggressor. Zelensky is a war leader whose country has been invaded, and we should all be supporting him and not fawning over Putin.

It comes after Donald Trump and his allies have in recent weeks refused to brand Vladimir Putin the aggressor in the war and have instead suggested Mr Zelensky was to blame for the three-year conflict.

04:04 PM GMT

Badenoch: What is being done to repair Washington rift?

Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative party leader, said she supported Keir Starmers efforts this weekend in organising an emergency summit on Ukraine.

She questioned what was being done to repair the apparent rift between Washington and Europe over support for Ukraine.

Responding, Sir Keir repeated that the UK will lead a coalition of the willing, but admitted that not every country takes the same view.

Tory Leader Kemi Badenoch speaking in the Commons

03:59 PM GMT

Zelensky was taken aback by UK public support

Sir Keir Starmer said Volodymyr Zelensky was taken aback by the crowd of people who cheered for him as he entered Downing Street on the weekend.

He called it a clear reminder that the British government and the public stand in unwavering support behind him and the people of Ukraine here.

03:55 PM GMT

Britain will play leading role in securing peace

Britain will play a leading role in securing peace in Ukraine with boots on the ground and planes in the air, Sir Keir said, telling MPs that the UK must lead from the front.

Following his emergency summit on Sunday, the Prime Minister said Europe was forming a coalition of the willing to defend a future ceasefire in Ukraine.

Europe must do the heavy lifting to secure peace on our continent, he said, before adding that for this to succeed, it must has strong US backing.

Sir Keir said that he does not take these decisions lightly.

03:43 PM GMT

Future of Ukraine is vital for our national security, says Starmer

The future of Ukraine vital for our national security, Keir Starmer said in his address to the Commons.

Russia is a menace in our waters and our skies, he added. Britain will lead from the front for the security of our continent, our country.

Keir Starmer speaks in the Commons

03:37 PM GMT

Starmer: We will not choose between sides of Atlantic

Sir Keir told the Commons: We must strengthen our relationship with Americathe United States are and always will be indispensable.

He added: And we will never choose between either side of the Atlantic.

The Prime Minister said the past week have shown with total clarity that the US is vital in securing peace in Ukraine.

03:34 PM GMT

The test of our times, the crossroads of our history

Sir Keir Starmer has started addressing MPs, declaring that the UK is facing the test of our times, the crossroads of our history.

03:31 PM GMT

Trump to discuss withdrawing military aid to Ukraine

Donald Trump is expected to discuss cancelling military aid to Ukraine when he meets with key advisors later today.

The president will speak with senior advisers, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, to consider a range of options, including cancelling aid that was approved and paid for by the Biden administration, the New York Times reported.

The meeting will follow a public row between Mr Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, at the Oval Office on Friday.

The White House is reportedly split on how to handle Ukraine following the row, with some advisers taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country, Bloomberg UK reported. Some expect Mr Zelensky to resign after a peace deal is reached, a key Russian request.

Mr Trump has reportedly told Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron that he wants to see Europes plan on how to stop the fighting in Ukraine.

He also expects an apology from Mr Zelensky, as well as a declaration that he wants peace, before he is allowed to return to the White House to sign a minerals deal.

03:09 PM GMT

Ukraine investigates negligence after Russian strike on military camp

Ukraine acknowledged that a Russian missile strike on a military training ground at the weekend had inflicted deaths and injuries and said a criminal investigation was underway into possible negligence.

Russias defence ministry shared a video of what it described as an Iskander-M ballistic missile strike on a camp in Dnipropetrovsk region on Saturday, saying it inflicted heavy casualties.

Oleksandr Syrskyi, Ukraines army chief, said that Russia had struck with cluster munitions, but did not disclose casualty details.

Ukraines State Bureau of Investigations said it had opened a criminal investigation into possible negligence over the attack.

03:00 PM GMT

Your views...

02:51 PM GMT

Starmer to address MPs after Ukraine summit

Sir Keir Starmer is to address the House of Commons at around 3.30pm to update MPs on Ukraine.

The Prime Minister convened European leaders at Lancaster House yesterday to discuss how the conflict can be brought to an end following the public fallout between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sir Keir is expected to take questions after his remarks, which Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, is set to respond to.

02:39 PM GMT

Russian advance slows for third month in a row

Russias advances throughout Ukraine for a third month in a row on February, according to new analysis.

Moscow advanced by 389 square kilometres (150 square miles) in February, after advances of 431 square kilometres in January, 476 square kilometres in December 2024 and a peak of 725 square kilometres in November, AFP reported.

It follows claims from the Ukrainian military that it has slowed Moscows advances in the most threatening areas.

Our side has taken a number of measures to improve the interaction of military units and subdivisions, regrouped troops, which slowed down... (Russias) advance in most threatening areas, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said last week.

Russian soldiers ride atop an Akatsyia self-propelled gun in eastern Ukraine - Russian Defense Ministry Press Service

02:19 PM GMT

Farage acting as Trump spokesman, say Lib Dems

The Liberal Democrats have accused Nigel Farage of acting as Trumps own spokesman in Britain after the Reform leader criticised Volodymyr Zelensky.

Sir Ed Davey, the Lib Dem leader, was responding to remarks made by Mr Farage in which he claimed the Ukrainian president overplayed his hand when meeting Donald Trump.

Sir Ed said: Nigel Farage is once again showing his true colours as Trumps own spokesman here in Britain.

Zelensky showed courage and integrity in that room  in stark contrast to Farages cowardly approach of licking Trumps boots. Farage is more focused on promoting Trump and Musks interests in the UK than British interests in the States.

He was once again parroting White House talking points this morning, to the dismay of British people here at home. Its clearer than ever that Nigel Farage is simply out for himself and his Mar-a-Lago cronies.

02:01 PM GMT

Pictured: Ukraine fires howitzer at Russian positions

Ukrainian servicemen firing a M109 155mm self-propelled howitzer towards Russian positions - AFP

01:44 PM GMT

Musk backs calls for US to leave Nato

Elon Musk has backed calls for the US to leave Nato, a move that would strike a significant blow to hopes of an American security guarantee for Ukraine.

Mr Musk, a close ally of Donald Trump who is running the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), signalled his support for American withdrawal on his social media site X.

Mike Lee, a prominent Republican senator, responded to yesterdays Lancaster House summit by writing: Obviously our European allies dont need us. Lets leave Nato. We dont fit in there.

In response, Mr Musk said: Yes.

The tech billionaire has also pinned a post to his profile in which he said: What I said over two years ago was that Ukraine should seek peace or suffer severe loss of life for no gains.

The latter was Zelenskys choice. Now he wants to do that again. This is cruel and inhumane.

Obviously our European allies don't need us



Let's leave NATO



We don't fit in there https://t.co/112IBoPCT5  Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) March 3, 2025

01:28 PM GMT

Trump: Im the only president who didnt give away Ukrainian land

Donald Trump has claimed he is the only US president that has not given any Ukrainian land to Russia.

The only President who gave none of Ukraines land to Putins Russia is President Donald J. Trump. Remember that when the weak and ineffective Democrats criticise, and the Fake News gladly puts out anything they say! he wrote in a Truth Social post this morning.

The US president is presumably referring to Russias invasion of Crimea in 2014, which was followed by a full annexation.

Barack Obama, US president at the time, was widely criticised for failing to arm Ukraine in response, though he did not give away Ukrainian land.

01:04 PM GMT

Intense work under way to secure peace in Ukraine, says No10

Sir Keir Starmer is continuing with intense work aimed at securing a lasting peace in Ukraine, his official spokesman said.

The spokesman told reporters: You heard obviously from the Prime Minister yesterday and indeed over the weekend and summit yesterday, agreed some important steps forward and the Prime Minister outlined a four-step plan there

There is intense work taking place to take forward that work. I think as the PM also said yesterday, we also want to keep up this momentum. The summit yesterday [led to] an important set of conclusions.

Theres going to be various options on the table which are now subject to further discussion with both the US and European partners.

12:48 PM GMT

Trump-Zelensky row a manufactured escalation, says Merz

A clash between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House was a manufactured escalation, Germanys next chancellor Friedrich Merz has said.

It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but obviously a manufactured escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office, Mr Merz told a news conference in Hamburg.

Mr Merz, who is seeking to form a coalition after his conservatives won a snap election last month, said that Europe was now under pressure to act quickly.

We must now show that we are in a position to act independently in Europe, he said.

Friedrich Merz is likely to be Germanys next chancellor - AFP

12:39 PM GMT

UK and France seek Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine

The UK and France are pushing for a Europe Plus coalition to protect Ukraine in the event of a peace deal.

Canada and Turkey are involved in discussions about joining Sir Keir Starmers so-called coalition of the willing, which could see soldiers being sent to Ukraine to enforce a deal.

The plan is the UK and Frances response to a series of private requests made by Donald Trump following his public row with Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday, Bloomberg reports.

The US president wants Mr Zelensky to apologise and declare that he wants peace before returning to the White House to sign a minerals agreement.

Mr Trump is also unwilling to commit to backing European troops who are sent to Ukraine until Europe produces a plan to stop the fighting.

On Sunday, Emmanuel Macron suggested Britain and France had drawn up a plan for a one-month truce in Ukraine in the air, at sea. However, the UK Government said this morning no agreement had been reached.

12:34 PM GMT

Tories liken Farage to Corbyn over Ukraine

The Conservatives have likened Nigel Farage to Jeremy Corbyn after the Reform leader criticised Volodymyr Zelensky.

Mr Farage said during an LBC phone-in this morning that Mr Zelensky overplayed his hand during his ill-fated meeting with Donald Trump and JD Vance in the Oval Office last week.

He also argued the Ukrainian president should have shown more respect to Mr Trump, going on to claim he should have worn a suit to the White House.

Responding to his comments, Dame Priti Patel, the shadow foreign secretary, said: Nigel Farage is completely wrong. President Zelensky is a hero, who has stood up to Putins aggression, and led his countrys defence against their barbaric and illegal invasion over the last 3 years  and it is troubling to not hear the leader of Reform say that.



For Nigel Farage to sit there pointing the finger at Zelenskiy is both morally wrong and diplomatically counterproductive. At this uncertain and dangerous time, one would hope that MPs of all stripes would be putting our national interest first, rather than playing politics.



But sadly, it is not surprising. Like Jeremy Corbyn, the leader of Reform UK seems to have history equivocating over Russias illegal war in Ukraine.

12:04 PM GMT

Who is in Starmers coalition of the willing and what can it do?

Sir Keir Starmer announced on Sunday that the UK and France were assembling a coalition of the willing to enforce any peace deal for Ukraine.

The Prime Minister revealed a number of countries had agreed to join the initiative at a summit of 19 international leaders in London.

Together with Ukraine, the European alliance will devise an alternative peace plan to the one being cooked up by Donald Trumps administration in Washington before deploying a combined force to guarantee the settlement.

Sir Keir and Emmanuel Macron, Frances president, will work on the plan before presenting it to Mr Trump, who has already opened his negotiations with Russias Vladimir Putin.

European leaders have been scrambling to respond to those talks to ensure they have a seat at the negotiating table.

11:45 AM GMT

Trump to discuss cancelling military aid to Ukraine

Donald Trump is expected to discuss cancelling military aid to Ukraine when he meets with key advisors later today.

The president will meet with senior advisers, including Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth, to consider a range of options, including cancelling aid that was approved and paid for by the Biden administration, the New York Times reported.

The meeting will follow a public row between Mr Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, at the Oval Office on Friday.

The White House is reportedly split on how to handle Ukraine following the row, with some advisers taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country, Bloomberg UK reported.

11:20 AM GMT

Trump-Putin summit being fast-tracked

A plan for Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin to host a joint summit is being fast-tracked after the US presidents public row with Volodymyr Zelensky, according to CNN.

A meeting between the two presidents is set to take place in one of the Persian Gulf countries, most likely Saudi Arabia, where US and Russian officials met for talks last month.

11:12 AM GMT

King Charles meets Justin Trudeau at Sandringham

The King has held an audience with Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, in the Saloon room of Sandringham House.

The meeting came less than 24 hours after the King met with Volodymyr Zelensky in the same room for talks following his showdown with Donald Trump in the White House.

It also comes after Charles III, who is King of Canada, became unexpectedly embroiled in UK-US politics last week.

As Sir Keir Starmer visited Mf Trump at the White House, he took with him a signed letter from the King inviting the Trumps to visit Balmoral and Dumfries House, and to the UK for a second State Visit.

The optics are complicated for the monarch, who has not yet been able to visit Canada since he became King and will not be able to do so until its elections are decided in the autumn.

Mr Trumps extraordinary suggestion that the US should annex Canada to create its 51st State will no doubt form part of the discussions.

The Kings decision to host Mr Trudeau today is an entirely normal part of his role, which has taken on extra significance thanks to global affairs.

King Charles meets Justin Trudeau at Sandringham - PA

11:01 AM GMT

Britain has finally restored its power in Europe after Brexit

It was the day Britain finally put Brexit behind it and assumed its new role in Europe.

The Prime Minister welcomed a host of European leaders to a London summit with nothing less than the security of the Continent at stake.

As he sat down in the grand surroundings of Lancaster House, Sir Keir Starmer had Emmanuel Macron to his right and the under-pressure Volodymyr Zelensky to his left.

The three leaders are working on a peace plan for Ukraine to present to Donald Trump. It includes British and French troops as part of a peacekeeping force.

Europes new world order is being built before our eyes. America a much more distant ally, Europe taking more responsibility for its own security through a kind of mini Nato.

10:49 AM GMT

Zelensky: We want this war to end

Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of not wanting to end the war in Ukraine.

Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace, the Ukrainian president said this morning.

We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror: over the past week, more than 1,050 attack drones, nearly 1,300 aerial bombs, and more than 20 missiles have been launched at Ukraine to destroy cities and kill people.

It comes amid reports that Donald Trump wants Mr Zelensky to declare that he wants peace and apologise before returing to the White House to sign a minerals deal.

Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace. We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror: over the past week, more than 1,050 attack drones, nearly 1,300 aerial bombs, and more than 20 missiles have pic.twitter.com/OkZMY9hhgT  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) March 3, 2025

10:34 AM GMT

White House split on Ukraine

The White House is reportedly split on how to handle Ukraine after a public row between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Friday.

One camp is balance, while another is taking extreme positions against Mr Zelensky and his country, Bloomberg UK reported. Others expected Mr Zelensky to resign once peace is achieved - a key Russian request.

Mr Trump is yet to make up his mind, according to the report, and wants the Ukrainian president to apologise and say he is ready for peace before signing a minerals deal.

10:12 AM GMT

Kremlin says West is falling apart

The Kremlin has said Western unity is falling apart over Ukraine after the public row between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky last week.

The fragmentation of the collective west has begun, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, said. Someone will have to make Zelensky want peace. If the Europeans can do it, they should be honoured and praised.

Mr Peskov also said a summit hosted by Sir Keir Starmer in London on Sunday was not aimed at achieving peace.

This clearly does not relate to a peace plan, but will allow for the continuation of hostilities, he told reporters.

10:02 AM GMT

Zelensky must hold elections, says Farage

Nigel Farage has said Volodymyr Zelensky must call an election in Ukraine as soon as a peace deal is on the table.

The Reform UK leader said a fresh vote should be called once a credible agreement is on the cards to give the Ukrainian people a say in their future.

Donald Trump, the US president, who has previously described Mr Zelensky as a dictator, has also indicated that Ukrainian elections would be needed as part of any peace deal.

Asked about calls for the Ukrainian president to step down during a phone-in on LBC, Mr Farage said: Well, he must have elections, thats absolutely clear.

Pressed on whether a vote should be called immediately, he said: He must have elections as soon as there is a peace deal on the table, a credible peace deal on the table, then the best way for the Ukrainian population to discuss that deal and the shape of that deal is to have an election. Very, very important. Its not just for one man and the current elected parliament to decide.

09:44 AM GMT

Zelensky doesnt want peace, says Russia

The Kremlin has accused Volodymyr Zelensky of not wanting peace, following a clash last week between the Ukrainian leader and US President Donald Trump.

He doesnt want peace. Someone should make him want peace. If the Europeans do it, all kudos to them, spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Mr Peskov described last weeks angry exchange as unprecedented.

Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky engaged in a public row in the Oval Office on Friday - AFP

09:38 AM GMT

Zelensky should have worn a suit to White House, says Farage

Volodymyr Zelensky should have worn a suit to the White House for his ill-fated meeting with Donald Trump, Nigel Farage has said.

Mr Zelensky arrived at the Oval Office wearing his signature military-style clothing, leading one American journalist to ask in a hostile tone of voice why he did not wear a suit.

Mr Trump came to his defence, saying I like his clothes. But speaking on LBC on Monday morning, Mr Farage said: If I turned up at the White House, I would make sure I was wearing a suit and my shoes were clean.

In diplomacy our Prime Minister was briefed and briefed and briefed as to how to deal with the visit to the White House. Alright, if Zelensky wants to bowl in and show no respect to a man who we all know is incredibly old-fashioned about this stuff

If youre going in with a positive mindset, maybe Zelensky should have thought about that. But thats minor.

09:32 AM GMT

Farage: Zelensky played White House meeting very badly

Nigel Farage has accused Volodymyr Zelensky of playing it very badly during his disastrous meeting with Donald Trump and JD Vance in the Oval Office.

Mr Trump had accused the Ukrainian president of gambling with World War Three in a televised showdown while JD Vance, the vice-president, accused Mr Zelensky of disrespect.

Asked about the future of the Ukraine-Russia war amid peace talks, Mr Farage told LBC: We, after three years of war, after the Putin invasion, and a million battle count, have a situation now where we either go for a peace deal or this continues for year after year after year.

I know that Boris Johnson has been the biggest proponent of total war but the truth is, and I think this is what Zelensky will have to face up to, the longer the war goes on, the more it suits Russia. And wars either end with a deal or they end in annihilation.

What is interesting is that before Zelensky left the White House, hed realised that he had overplayed his hand. Yes of course they bit back at him but he overplayed his hand, but before he even left the White House he was willing to go back in and sign the minerals deal.

I think President Zelensky was very unwise to tell the Americans what would happen to them if they didnt back him. I think it was unwise. Yeah sure, Trump and Vance bit back, but in diplomatic terms I think Zelensky played it very badly.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage during an appearance on LBCs Nick Ferrari at Breakfast show - PA

09:28 AM GMT

Zelensky: US cannot force me from power

Volodymyr Zelensky has rejected US calls to resign after leading Republicans called for him to step aside.

The Ukrainian president told British media, including the Telegraph, that simply replacing me will not be simple.

Its not enough to just hold an election. You need to also not let me run. This will be a bit more difficult. Looks like you will have to negotiate with me, Mr Zelensky said, before reiterating that he would step down in exchange for Nato membership.

It comes after Mike Waltz, the White Houses national security adviser, told CNN the Trump administration needed a leader that can deal with us, eventually deal with the Russians, and end this war.

09:09 AM GMT

UK says no agreement on Ukraine truce proposal

France and Britain have not agreed on a partial truce plan for Ukraine, a Government minister has said after Emmanuel Macron said it had been proposed by the two countries.

No agreement has been made on what a truce looks like, armed forces minister Luke Pollard told Times Radio this morning.

A UK government official also said that a one-month truce has not been agreed.

08:44 AM GMT

Trump: Worry less about Putin

Donald Trump has said America should spend less time worrying about Putin.

Taking to his Truth Social overnight, Mr Trump said more time should spent focusing on migrant rape gangs, drug lords, murderers, and people from mental institutions entering our country - so that we dont end up like Europe!

08:26 AM GMT

Mandelsons comments on Zelensky not government policy

Lord Mandelsons calls for Volodymyr Zelensky to make up with Donald Trump and support his peace initiative are not government policy, the Armed Forces minister has said.

Luke Pollard was asked about Britains ambassador to the US calling on the Ukrainian president to give his unconditional backing to US plans to end the three-year conflict.

Asked whether Lord Mandelsons position was now government policy, Mr Pollard said: No. Its certainly right that of all the people on our continent who want peace, the Ukrainians want it the most.

But were still in discussions, diplomatic engagement, with our European, US and Ukrainian friends as to the shape of our deal.

But its certainly right that the war could stop tomorrow if President Putin stopped his illegal and unprovoked aggression. He could stop this war so what we need to find is a formula that allows a peace that is lasting and durable to be created, and then to be defended.

Asked if Lord Mandelson misspoke, Mr Pollard replied: Thats not government policy, and you wouldnt ask me to commentate on every up and down in the negotiations. But we are seeking to find that lasting peace.

08:07 AM GMT

Ukraine front line keeps getting closer to EU

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Monday said the Ukraine front line keeps getting closer to us, heightening the chance of a European war.

Never has the risk of a war in Europe, in the European Union been so high ... the threat keeps getting closer to us, the front line keeps getting closer to us, he told France Inter radio, a day after European leaders rallied around Ukraine at a summit in London.

07:55 AM GMT

Minister rejects calls for Zelensky to resign

A minister has rejected US calls for Volodymyr Zelenskys resignation after leading Republicans urged him to step aside.

Luke Pollard, the Armed Forces minister, was asked about the demands from senior Republicans and whether the US would back European plans to end the conflict with Mr Zelensky in power.

Mr Pollard told Sky News: Its clear that the meeting last week was very uncomfortable but its for the Ukrainians to choose who their leaders are.

President Zelensky is a democratically elected leader. Hes been clear that he sees his role as bringing lasting peace to Ukraine, and hes been clear over the weekend as well that hes been prepared to take steps himself with his position if it helps secure a lasting peace for Ukraine.

But its for the Ukrainians to decide on what terms that peace is conducted, what, how and to what extent that plan works.

But we need to do our bit and thats why over the weekend and all throughout last week youve seen incredible leadership from the United Kingdom, from the Prime Minister in particular, having these really difficult conversations with our allies.

07:44 AM GMT

Minister refuses to commit troops to Ukraine without US backstop

The Armed Forces minister has refused three times to say whether UK troops are guaranteed to Ukraine without a US backstop.

Luke Pollard was asked whether there would be a British military presence in the region with or without the backing of President Trump.

He told Times Radio: We think it essential there is a US backstop to make this work.

Asked again, Mr Pollard replied: At the moment weve pledged that the UK will step up as part of that multinational movement. Were still working through those negotiations at the moment.

We feel though as a country, as the Prime Minister has set out both at the summit and to President Zelensky at the weekend, that we need to do more [and] that our efforts need and require US involvement as a backstop.

Pressed for a third time, he said: I dont think its right to get into making an announcement before weve obviously reached the deal, which I obviously cant do If the US isnt involved, we will struggle to get that durable peace.

Luke Pollard, the armed forces minister, refuses to commit troops to Ukraine without a US backstop - Jamie Lorriman

07:36 AM GMT

Ukraine strikes oil refinery 1,500km deep into Russia

Ukraine has reportedly struck an oil refinery 1,500km deep into Russia in what would be one of its deepest strikes of the war so far.

The oil refinery, located in the Russian city of Ufa, was on fire overnight, according to the Russian state news agency.

Several Russian channels on Telegram said the fire followed an explosion at the refinery.

Moscow has blamed the fire on technical issues, while Ukraine is yet to comment.

Ukraine has stepped up attacks on Russian soil in recent months, using unmanned drones and long-range missiles provided by the US and UK.

07:24 AM GMT

I attended Zelenskys private press conference  this is what he told me

Before the intimate hour-long press conference began at Stansted Airport, a seasoned industry veteran leaned toward me and remarked: This may be the most important conference you and I will ever attend in our careers.

This statement encapsulated the gravity of the moment as we awaited the president.

The decisions to be made in the coming days could very well prove to be the most consequential for Europe and its security since the end of the Second World War.

The conference room was tight and bustling, the air punctuated by the roar of aeroplanes overhead, making the water in our glasses shake.

When president Zelensky entered, a collective breath, an almost imperceptible pause, then nods of acknowledgement when he arrived.

To our surprise, he appeared more relaxed than anticipated after what must have been a hellish week. Smiling and exchanging light-hearted banter, he nonetheless remained unwavering in the seriousness of his answers.

This was not a man who was prepared to offer big concessions following his recent meeting with president Trump. The sole moment of discomfort came when he was asked if he would apologise to the American president. He deftly evaded the question.

07:14 AM GMT

Truce would show if Russia is serious, says France

A one-month truce in Ukraine in the air, at sea would allow the West to see if Russia is serious about ending the war, Frances foreign minister has said.

France and Britain are planning to propose a one-month truce in Ukraine, Emmanuel Macron said following talks in London on Sunday.

A truce on air, sea and energy would enable us to verify if Russia would be willing to end the war with Ukraine, Jean-Noel Barrot said.

European soldiers would only be deployed on the ground in the second phase of a potential peace deal, the French president told Le Figaro.

07:09 AM GMT

Welcome to our live coverage

Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine.

Well bring you the latest news and analysis throughout the day.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
WASHINGTON (AP)  As his White House meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart devolved into a stunning blowup, President Donald Trump leaned on a familiar refrain to explain his unique kinship with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

Putin went through a hell of a lot with me, Trump said Friday, raising his voice and gesturing with his hands as he recounted the long-since-concluded saga of a federal investigation in which both he and the Russian president played starring roles.

He went through a phony witch hunt where they used him and Russia. Russia, Russia, Russia, ever hear of that deal? Trump said.

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The pointed reference to the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election underscored the extent to which Trump's lingering fury over an inquiry he has misleadingly branded a hoax remains top of mind more than eight years after it began.

It also made clear that Trump's view of a war Russia launched against Ukraine three years ago is colored not only by his relationship with Putin and the alliance he believes they share but also by his fraught past with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was a central player in the first of two impeachment cases against Trump during his first four years in office.

Here's a look at what the American president means when he says Russia, Russia, Russia":

Investigations tied to Putin connections

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Questions over Trump's connections to Putin followed him into his first presidency and hung over him for most of his term, spurring investigations by the Justice Department and Congress and the appointment of a special counsel who brought criminal charges against multiple Trump allies.

While running for office, Trump cast doubt on the idea that Russian government hackers had stolen the emails of Democrats, including his 2016 rival Hillary Clinton, and orchestrated their public release in an effort to boost his candidacy and harm hers.

Then, as president, he broke with his own intelligence community's firm finding that Russia and Russia alone was to blame for the hack. Even when he begrudgingly conceded that Russia might be responsible, he also suggested the culprit might be a 400-pound genius sitting in bed and playing with his computer."

In July 2018, while standing alongside Putin in Helsinki, Trump appeared to embrace the Russian leader's protestations over the conclusions of U.S. intelligence officials by saying, I have great confidence in my intelligence people, but I will tell you that President Putin was extremely strong and powerful in his denial today."

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He added that I don't see any reason why it would be Russia.

All the while, he memorably raged against the investigation, calling it a hoax" and witch hunt and, as he did at the White House last week, repeatedly deriding all the Russia, Russia, Russia" attention.

Special counsel Robert Mueller's investigation wrapped up in 2019 and left no doubt that Russia had interfered in the 2016 election in sweeping and criminal fashion and that the Trump campaign had welcomed the help. But the inquiry did not find sufficient evidence to prove that the two sides had illegally colluded to tip the outcome of the election.

Do us a favor

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If Trump's history with Russia appears to have contributed to his worldview of the current conflict, so too has his past with Ukraine.

He held a call in 2019 with Zelenskyy and pushed him to investigate corruption allegations against Democratic rival Joe Biden and Biden's son Hunter ahead of the 2020 election, which Joe Biden went on to win.

The call  which included Trump's memorable line: I would like you to do us a favor, though  was reported by a CIA officer-turned-whistleblower who alleged that the president appeared to be soliciting interference from a foreign country in the U.S. election.

After Trumps call with Zelenskyy, the White House temporarily halted U.S. aid to the struggling ally facing hostile Russian forces at its border. The money was eventually released as Congress intervened.

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Trump was subsequently impeached by the House but acquitted by the Senate.

The president's skepticism of Ukraine went beyond the call. During his first term, he also seemingly bought into a long-discredited conspiracy theory that connects Ukraine, not Russia, to the 2016 political interference and the hacking of the Democratic National Committee and repeatedly accused the FBI of a lackluster investigation that led to the blaming of the Kremlin.

What happens next?

The long-term repercussions of the Oval Office spat, in which Trump called Zelenskyy disrespectful in the most hostile public exchange in memory between world leaders at the White House, remain to be seen.

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But the immediate consequences are clear, with Trump on Monday directing a pause to U.S. assistance to Ukraine as he seeks to pressure Zelenskyy to engage in peace talks with Russia. Earlier, the U.S. president again blasted the Ukrainian leader after Zelenskyy noted that a deal to end the war is still very, very far away.

Zelenskyy, meanwhile, left Washington without signing a minerals deal that Trump said would have moved Ukraine closer to ending its war with Russia. He's not welcome back, Trump said on social media, until he's ready for Peace.

With the U.S.-Ukraine relationship now in jeopardy, Zelenskyy has used a series of posts on X to express his thanks to the American people, Trump and Congress for all the support."

European leaders, including British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have embraced Zelenskyy in the aftermath of the White House fight.

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In Russia, officials are relishing the conflict, sensing an opportunity to move closer to the U.S. That window seemed to open last month when the U.S., in a dramatic reversal in position, split from European allies by refusing to blame Russia for its invasion of Ukraine in votes on U.N. resolutions seeking an end to the war.

In an interview with a Russian state TV reporter that aired Sunday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said the new U.S. administration is rapidly changing all foreign policy configurations."

This largely coincides with our vision, he added.
President Donald Trump will deliver a speech to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, allowing him to address the American public a little more than a month into his second term.

Since he took office Trump has embarked on a dramatic program that includes mass dismissals of federal workers, efforts to claw back public spending without approval from Congress, and a flurry of executive orders inspired by his credo of putting "America First." Some of those actions are widely seen by legal scholars as unconstitutional and have drawn challenges in court.

Republicans also are working to renew a package of tax cuts, paid for in part by slicing into economic assistance and health care programs for low-earning Americans.

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All that and more could come up in Tuesday's address. Here is what Arizonans should know about the speech.

What to expect from Trump's speech

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., formally invited Trump to deliver the address back in January, writing in a letter, It is my distinct honor and great privilege to invite you to address a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in the Chamber of the U.S. House of Representatives, to share your America First vision for our legislative future."

It's not uncommon for presidents to deliver speeches laying out their vision toward the beginning of their term. In February 1981, for example, President Ronald Reagan's address called for sweeping cuts to taxes and federal spending in his "Address Before a Joint Session of the Congress on the Program for Economic Recovery." Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton both gave "Administration Goals" speeches in 1989 and 1993, respectively.

Trump declined to share specifics of the speech in a social media post Monday.

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"TOMORROW NIGHT WILL BE BIG," the president wrote. "I WILL TELL IT LIKE IT IS!"

The remarks could touch on immigration, his top campaign issue; trade policy, with steep tariffs set to take effect Tuesday; and foreign policy, following Trump's dramatic Oval Office exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

What time is the speech?

The speech will begin Tuesday evening at 9 p.m. Eastern time, or 7 p.m. in Arizona.

Where can I watch the speech?

Multiple media outlets have announced plans to start live coverage of the address, including USA TODAY, ABC, Fox News, NPR, PBS and more.

Will Arizona's members of Congress invite guests?

Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz., will bring Pinal County Sheriff Ross Teeple as his guest, the local news site Pinal Central has reported.

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The I-10, which runs through Pinal County, is a key corridor for trade, tourism and local traffic; but, also drug trafficking, Ciscomani's office wrote. The brave men and women who serve as police officers here play a key role in keeping communities safe and commerce running smoothly. Sheriff Teeple plays a key role in this mission, and I look forward to hosting him in DC next week.

Rep. Eli Crane, R-Ariz., is hosting Yavapai County Sheriff David Rhodes.

Their Democratic colleague, Rep. Greg Stanton, will bring Walter Murillo, CEO of the health care company Native Health.

Who will give the Democratic response?

Sen. Elissa Slotkin, D-Mich., will deliver the Democrats' rebuttal to Trump's address.

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"The public expects leaders to level with them on whats actually happening in our country," Slotkin wrote in a statement. "From our economic security to our national security, weve got to chart a way forward that actually improves peoples lives in the country we all love, and Im looking forward to laying that out.

Rep. Adriano Espaillat, D-N.Y., will deliver a Spanish-language response. Espaillat is chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

USA TODAY's Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Fernando Cervantes Jr. contributed reporting.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Trump speech to Congress: What Arizonans should know and how to watch
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump arrives this week on Capitol Hill to deliver a speech to Congress, a coequal branch of government he has bulldozed past this first month in office, wielding unimaginable executive power to get what he wants, at home and abroad.

The Tuesday night address will unfold in the chamber where lawmakers crouched in fear four years ago while a mob of his supporters roamed the halls, and where Nancy Pelosi, Liz Cheney and others vowed to prevent him from ever holding office again. It's the same House chamber where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a hero's welcome for fighting off Russia's invasion, in the first year of that war.

Since his reelection, Trump has blazed across the federal government, dismantling not just norms and traditions but the very government itself. With billionaire aide Elon Musk by his side, he is firing thousands of federal workers, closing agencies established by law and publicly badgering Zelenskyy while positioning the U.S. closer to Russia.

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As legal cases mount, more than 100 so far challenging the legality of the Trump administrations actions, the Republican president is daring the other branches of government  Congress and the courts  to try to stop him.

"This whole thing about approaching a constitutional crisis is not quite true," said Rep. James Clyburn, of South Carolina, a senior Democrat in the House. "Were already there."

Trump revels in going it alone, but there are limits

Reveling in the might of going it alone, Trump is about to test the limits of his executive branch authority as he turns to Congress to deliver tax cuts and other key aspects of his agenda. Only Congress, by law, can allocate funds  or pull them back  but the Trump administration's actions have been testing that foundational rule, enshrined in the Constitution.

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Trump also needs lawmakers to fund the government and ensure federal operations dont shut down when money runs out March 14. And he will need Congress to pass legislation to prevent an economically damaging debt default, something he has pushed lawmakers to resolve.

While Trump enjoys the rare sweep of power in Washington, with the Republicans controlling the White House, the House and the Senate, he relies on political fear as well as favor to motivate lawmakers. With Musk having poured $200 million into electing Trump, the president has a ready patron whose vast political funds can influence any resisters.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, who has positioned himself as a partner to the president, has said he's excited about what Trump is accomplishing in rooting out waste, fraud and abuse to downsize government.

Fireworks, is what Johnson, R-La., said he expects from Trump's speech, dismissing as nonsense concerns that Congress is ceding too much power to the White House.

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The president is doing what he said on the campaign trail he would do," Johnson said Sunday on Fox News Channel's Sunday Morning Futures show.

Democrats, after their stunning rejection by voters, are slowly beginning to mount a resistance. They are fighting Trump in court, with amicus briefs to protect federal workers, and filing legislation to serve as a check on what House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York calls the parade of horribles.

But as the minority party, they are limited in their power. Jeffries brushed off calls for Democrats to boycott Trump's address. "Its the peoples House. Its the House of Representatives, he said on CNN.

Instead, Democrats are inviting fired federal workers as their guests.

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Tax cuts and mass deportation funds all at stake

One of Trump's top campaign promises, extending the tax breaks approved during his first term in 2017, is posing one of his party's biggest challenges.

Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota are marshalling the GOP majority to deliver what Trump calls a big, beautiful bill extending those tax breaks  and providing new ones. But Republicans also want some $2 trillion in budget cuts with changes to Medicaid and other services that millions of Americans count on, which Trump could decide is too much to bear.

Trump's other big campaign promise  the biggest deportation operation in U.S. history  is running short of cash, and border czar Tom Homan has implored Republicans on Capitol Hill to loosen the purse strings to give the Homeland Security and Defense departments the money needed.

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Those budget debates all come as the Trump administration is ripping the federal government apart and freezing federal funds. It's challenging the Nixon-era Impoundment Control Act, which prevents the executive branch from halting allocations Congress has already approved, setting up a showdown that could wind up at the Supreme Court.

Testing the boundaries a little, I would expect that, said Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., who said he supports much of what the Trump administration is doing, to a point.

We've got separate but equal branches of government," said Womack, whose committee controls vast funding. What we dont want is, we dont want a constitutional crisis.

Lives, livelihoods and the echoes of Jan. 6

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Its not just constitutional issues at stake but the lives and livelihoods of Americans. Communities depend on federal dollars  for health care clinics, school programs and countless contracts for companies large and small that provide goods and services to the federal government. Many are watching that money evaporate overnight.

Republican Sen. Jim Justice of West Virginia, a former governor, said voters back home have concerns even as they support the idea of downsizing government.

People are always afraid of the dark, he said, citing potential changes to Medicaid and preschool programs in particular. Lets give it time to see really what materializes before we run through the streets with our hair on fire.

And the threat of Jan. 6, 2021, hangs over the building.

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Trump will stand on the dais where Pelosi, then the House speaker, was whisked to safety as the mob ransacked the Capitol. He will look out over the rows of lawmakers, some of whom blocked the back door to the chamber as Capitol Police were fending off rioters, steps away from where Trump supporter Ashli Babbitt was shot and killed. Visitors will be watching from the galleries where representatives crouched on the floor in gas masks before being evacuated.

The Supreme Court granted Trump's presidential actions wide immunity from prosecution, and the four-count criminal indictment against him over Jan. 6 was withdrawn once he was reelected, in line with Justice Department policy.

In one of his first acts on Inauguration Day, Trump issued a sweeping pardon of all the rioters, including extremist leaders Stuart Rhodes and Enrique Tarrio, who were convicted of sedition. They have both returned to make appearances at the Capitol since their release from prison.

Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., was in the Capitol on Jan. 6.

I acknowledge that he won and hes got the right to use all the executive authority to pursue his policies. He doesnt have a right to exceed constitutional authority, Welch said. So how he does this should be of great concern to all of us.
The near-ubiquitous Starbucks logo will glow soon over three new locations in the area, adding to the handful already found in Tuscaloosa, and on the University of Alabama campus.

The first Starbucks in Northport is being built ground-up, on land between Lurleen Wallace and 20th Avenue, and will be a drive-through location. The other new drive-through will be at 405 15th St., in what used to be T-Town Tire. That involves demolishing the old building and getting the new framework ready for Starbucks to outfit.

The third will be a full-sized Starbucks, with patio and cafe. That's going up near Lake Tuscaloosa, on Rice Mine Road, not far from the shopping center anchored by a Publix.

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"We bought a lot from Emmanuel Baptist Church," said Will Roark, a partner in RJ Development of Montgomery, which is working on the sites. "It used to be their old rec center, right at the entrance."

More: Looking for a new restaurant in Tuscaloosa? Here are some you might have missed

A full-sized Starbucks, with patio and cafe, is being built on Rice Mine Road, near Lake Tuscaloosa and not far from the shopping center anchored by a Publix.

Seattle-based Starbucks is the world's largest coffeehouse chain, following a period of aggressive expansion begun decades after its 1971 founding. Figures from 2024 indicate there are more than 40,000 worldwide, built on every continent except Antarctica. The U.S. has the most, with about 16,000.

Starbucks is credited with leading the "second wave of coffee culture," focused more on quality of roasts and cafe experiences, unlike the first wave, which centered around mass-marketed grocery store brands.

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Seattle's maritime history helped anchor the brand. The founders chose the name after the character from "Moby Dick," while searching for a monniker beginning with "St," as one business partner thought words beginning with those letters seemed powerful. They began compiling a list, and had picked "Starbo," a mining town in the Cascade Range, until the homonym reminded them of the chief mate on Captain Ahab's Pequod.

The logo image  originally a full-bodied, twin-tailed mermaid  conflates with sirens of Greek legend. Terry Heckler, the same partner who thought of the "st" thing, found the image, and its mysterious nature, alluring. Heckler once said she's the perfect metaphor for the siren song of coffee that lures us cupside.

Starbucks locations sell hot and cold beverages, whole-bean coffee, micro-ground instant coffee, espressos, lattes, Frappuccino beverages, juices, full and loose-leaf teas, along with pastries, breakfast foods and other snacks, depending on the size of the location.

Starbucks cups are pictured on a counter in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, U.S., February 16, 2022.

Tuscaloosa currently has a Starbucks at 807 Paul W. Bryant Drive, adjacent to the Supe Store at what was for many years the Corner Store, with another inside the Student Center, and one at 325 University Blvd. E. There are drive-through standalone locations on 816 Veterans Memorial Parkway/15th St. E., and at 804 Skyland Boulevard, with a walk-up Starbucks inside the Target Superstore, at 1901 13th Ave. E. Barnes and Noble in Midtown sells their products, but isn't a Starbucks cafe.

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The three new spots should open by late summer or early fall, but that's up to the chain.

"It depends on Starbucks and their suppliers, if they can get materials in a timely fashion," Roark said. Once RJ Development has completed exterior prep, Starbucks' interior buildout can take from 90 to 150 days, he said. The 15th Street location got started first, so it may open by late summer. That had been a Phillips 66 gas station and a convenience store before becoming a used-tire store, for 26 years.

"All three of them were challenging sites," Roark said. "They're dynamic sites that should do well for them."

Starbucks doesn't just plop its businesses down anywhere, but studies demographics including projected growth, traffic rates, and how existing stores in the area are faring.

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More: Mayor Walt Maddox sees 'light at the end of the tunnel' for $68.9 million road project

'That gives them a good indication the market will serve at what they projected, or above," Roark said. "If there wasn't a need, we wouldn't have gotten this far."

Roark and one of his partners are University of Alabama grads, so they were already familiar with the area.

"When we first came to market, I drove by the (15th Street) store, and couldn't even get into the parking lot, it was so busy," Roark said.

What's coming should be relief stores, hoping to draw some of that congested traffic, and make it easier for someone from Northport, for example, who otherwise would have to drive miles before seeing a green Starbucks mermaid.

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The newer 15th location is just a couple blocks from the University of Alabama campus, with its student population of nearly 40,000. Traffic count estimates on Lurleen Wallace indicate between 60,000 and 70,000 vehicles per day, Roark said, almost interstate traffic heavy. As the $68.9 million McWright's Ferry Road draws to an expected completion in the fall, that Starbucks should open up at a prime time, when traffic flow to and from areas north of the Black Warrior River is greatly eased.

When a store reaches capacity, and can't handle more, "It's actually a negative impact," Roark said. "Customers might try a second alternative, a competitor."

Reach Mark Hughes Cobb at mark.cobb@tuscaloosanews.com.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Three new Starbucks are coming to Tuscaloosa: When will they open?
Two people  late to their flight to Mexico  tried to force themselves on the plane, combating staff at Miami International Airport, deputies say. Theyre now behind bars.

The aftermath of the quarrel was captured on video later posted to social media by Only In Dade. According to the Miami-Dade Sheriffs Office, the man involved in the altercation threw coffee in the face of an airport staff member.

The video showed several deputies tackling a man near the door leading to the plane. Another deputy could be seen instructing a woman to sit down as she pointed toward the restrained man.
Two people have been indicted in connection with a 10-year-old boy's death in a watercraft crash on Old Hickory Lake in Wilson County last summer during a Boy Scouts of America-related event.

Jack Gear, a rising fifth-grader at Union City Elementary School in Northwest Tennessee's Obion County, died July 16, 2024 while attending the Tennessee National Guard's annual Youth Development Week held in conjunction with Middle Tennessee Council, Scouting America.

Savannah E. Remington, 20, of Nashville, and Joshua C. Kennington, 21, of Mt. Juliet, are charged with vehicular homicide by recklessness, according to court records. Both have posted a $5,000 bond, according to Wilson County jail records.

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Nashville attorney David Raybin represents Remington. Lebanon attorney Jeff Cherry represents Kennington.

Both attorneys declined comment until seeing discovery from the District Attorney's office prosecuting the case and also out of respect for Jack Gear's family and the judicial process.

Scout Executive/CEO of the Middle Tennessee Council, Scouting America Larry Brown also declined comment.

In addition to the vehicular homicide charge, Remington and Kennington are also charged with safe speed, risk of collision and head-on situation violations, according to the indictments. Both were working for the Middle Tennessee Council, Scouting America at the time of the crash, their attorneys said.

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The crash involved two personal watercraft vessels on Old Hickory Lake near Boxwell Reservation Camp used by the Middle Tennessee Council, Scouting America, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Boxwell Reservation Camp is just off State Route 109 and accesses Old Hickory Lake.

The water vessels were owned by Boxwell and were being operated by staff, according to the TWRA at the time of the crash. A juvenile passenger was aboard each vessel, the TWRA said.

The separate indictments both allege that Kennington and Remington "while in control of a vessel, fail to at all times proceed at a safe speed so that (he/she) could take proper and effective action to avoid collision and be stopped within a distance appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions ..."

Both have arraignments scheduled April 14, according to court records.

A sign for Boxwell Reservation in Wilson County.

A $10 million wrongful death lawsuit was also filed last year by Jack Gear's parents Crystalyn Gear and Xson Gear in connection with the crash.

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The lawsuit, filed in Circuit Court for the State of Tennessee's 20th Judicial District, alleges that Jack Gear's death was "caused by the negligence and reckless conduct of Middle Tennessee Council Inc., Boy Scouts of America."

The lawsuit alleges the watercraft that hit the vessel Jack Gear was riding was traveling at a high rate of speed.

After the crash, the boy was taken to Vanderbilt Wilson County. where he died, according to authorities.

Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Charges filed in Old Hickory Lake Boy Scout crash that killed boy, 10
Two young children who were sent across the Channel alone by their parents are to be returned to France in the first deal of its kind since Brexit.

The children, aged six and nine, will be reunited with their Kurdish Turk parents in France in an agreement made between Yvette Cooper, the Home Secretary, and her French counterpart, aimed at deterring people-smugglers from putting lone children in small boats.

The childrens parents had gone to court to claim asylum in the UK, arguing that the Home Offices refusal to allow them to come to Britain to be reunited with them was a breach of their article eight rights to a family life under the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR).

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Now a judge in the High Courts family division has backed a deal to reunite the children with their parents in France.

The agreement  between Ms Cooper, Bruno Retailleau, the French interior minister, and Kent county council, which is caring for the children  follows Home Office warnings that allowing the couple to join their children in the UK would set a dangerous precedent and encourage people-smuggling gangs to split up families.

The risk in northern France [is] that the grant of entry clearance will incentivise traffickers and people-smuggling gangs to manipulate families and separate children from their parents, sometimes forcibly, to make an unsafe journey to the UK placing their lives at risk, court documents said.

The real risk is that allowing parents to enter the UK because their children arrived in the UK unaccompanied on a small boat will lead to more children being placed on small boats, unaccompanied.

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The childrens parents claimed the family was split up in shallow waters off Calais when the mother was pulled into the water by other migrants and the father jumped into the sea to save her during their attempted crossing last July.

The children arrived safely in the UK after being rescued from the small boat by the UKs coastguard. They were left traumatised by the experience, which included the eldest boy nearly drowning and witnessing another child die in the sea during the crossing.

The children were placed in foster care by Kent County Council. The parents initially sought to be reunited with them in the UK and to be granted asylum.

The father is described as a political dissident in Turkey, who fled his home and homeland with his family to travel across Europe to seek refuge.

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They claimed the Home Offices refusal was not only a breach of their article eight ECHR rights but also their article three rights, under which they claimed that the enforced separation from their children amounted to inhuman and degrading treatment of the family.

Parents expressed deep regret

In a judgment issued on Friday in the High Courts family division, Mr Justice Garrido said the parents had expressed deep regret over their attempt to cross the Channel illegally with their children and given undertakings to the court that they will not do so in the future.

They wished to be reunited with their children and were taking advice on seeking asylum in France rather than the UK, although their legal appeals against the Home Offices refusal to allow them to come to the UK remained live.

France has also pledged to support and monitor the parents to ensure the needs of the children were met. The French government will offer school places to the children, while the local Turkish community is providing a two-bedroom property for the family free of charge.

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The court was told the family is due to be reunited within the next three weeks, with the UK flying the children to France accompanied by a social worker with a laissez-passer issued by the UK Government and a French re-admission document so they can cross the border into France.

Criminals cannot cruelly use children as a tool

Mr Justice Garrido said: The consequences for the children of continued separation from their parents is the continuation of significant emotional harm with life-long adverse impact on their functioning. In such circumstances, the childrens behaviour will be increasingly challenging, with the likely repeated breakdown of foster placements.

To be set against that bleak prognosis is a return to the parents who are believed to be able to meet all their childrens needs, provided that they do not again place them at risk of death or serious injury by attempting illegal entry to the UK.

They have indicated their deep regret at having done so, and provide assurances that they will not do so in the future. The risk cannot be eradicated but must be balanced against the near certainty of significant harm to the children of the only alternative. I repeat that the unanimous professional opinion is overwhelmingly in favour of reunification of this family.

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Dame Angela Eagle, the border security minister, welcomed the courts decision, saying: The fact that people-smuggling gangs put vulnerable children in unseaworthy boats demonstrates their vile disregard for human life, and that is why we are relentlessly pursuing them and will stop at nothing to dismantle their business models and bring them to justice.

This outcome makes clear that criminals cannot cruelly use children as a tool for their own selfish purposes.

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CHIPPEWA FALLS  Two people were injured in a Sunday morning house fire, Chippewa Falls officials say.

A statement from Battalion Chief Nate Martell said the fire department was called to North Herschel Street shortly after 5 a.m. They arrived to find the second floor of the building fully engulfed. Police and neighbors were attending to one person. EMS crews treated two people, one of whom was transported to a hospital for further care.

The fire required assistance from multiple departments, including Eau Claire and Anson. Damage is estimated at $150,000, and an investigation into the fire continues.
NEW BERN, N.C. (WNCT)  At 8 a.m. on Glenburnie Road and Elizabeth Avenue, a car crash that involved two pedestrians took place at the intersection.

Two juveniles were walking to school at H.J. MacDonald Middle School where they were hit by a motorist. Both juveniles were injured. They were treated on scene and transported to Carolina East Medical Center and are in stable condition.

The driver of the vehicle, HtooHtoo Win, remained at the scene and was cooperative with local authorities. The New Bern Police Department has launched a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the accident. Preliminary reports suggest that visibility may have played a role in the collision.

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The driver was cited with failure to yield the right of way with serious injury and was released.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Two Oregon men were arrested for separate sex crimes in February after they allegedly had sexual conversations with Lincoln City Police Department officers posing as children online and attempted to meet the decoys in person.

A Corvallis man was arrested on Feb. 27 after he allegedly sent graphic sexual photos of himself to Lincoln City Police Department officers posing as three different children online.

Murder trial begins for man accused in 2022 hit-run at SE Portland shopping center

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The suspect, 37-year-old Landry Johnson, also allegedly had graphic sexual conversations with the decoys and made plans to meet one of them in person. Johnson was arrested by the Clackamas County Sheriffs Office for a warrant out of Lincoln County. He was charged with luring a minor and the online sexual corruption of a child.

The Lincoln City Police Department continues our work to protect our kids from predators who target children for sexual exploitation, LCPD said.

On Feb. 18, 28-year-old Noah Charles Godfrey of Lincoln City was arrested after he allegedly arrived at a location to meet a decoy posting as a 15-year-old for sex.

During the course of the online conversations, he sent graphic messages and suggestive images of himself, LCPD said. Godfrey made arrangements to meet and pick up the fictitious minor female for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts.

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Siletz boy, 2, remains missing in Lincoln County

During the investigation, officers determined Godfrey was communicating with multiple real-life victims, and that he was in possession of sexual images of at least two of the children. Lincoln City Police were able to contact the family of one of the victims with help from out-of-state law enforcement.

Godfrey was indicted by a grand jury in Lincoln County for charges of online sexual corruption of a minor and luring a minor.

The Lincoln City Police want to encourage parents to monitor their childrens social media activity and discuss with them the possible dangers of communicating with strangers online, LCPD said. These investigations are conducted in an effort to reduce criminal activity and to further enhance the safety of our community.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Two people were rescued Saturday afternoon from their upside-down vehicle in far southwestern Palm Beach County, fire rescue officials said.

Palm Beach County Fire Rescue workers were sent just after noon Saturday to the 22000 block of Miami Canal Road, close to the Broward County line and about five miles west of U.S. 27, for a report of a car in a canal.

Rescuers discovered instead an upside-down vehicle in the muddy bank next to the canal. One person was trapped in the cab, and the other was under the vehicle itself, fire rescue officials said in a news release.

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Four other agencies helped in the rescue: the Palm Beach County Sheriffs Office, Broward Sheriffs Office Fire Rescue, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and the Palm Beach County Health Care District, which provided a TraumaHawk helicopter.

Fire Rescue workers extricated the two people from the wreck, who were transported by TraumaHawk and the Broward Fire Rescue helicopter to a local trauma center.

Fire Rescue officials provided no further details.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Upside down vehicle traps two near remote canal in southwest PBC
Boston police have announced the arrest of two Roxbury residents following an extensive drug investigation.

Jonathan Alcantara-Garcia, 40, and Niurka Pimentel-Suero, 37, have been charged with firearm and drug-related offenses.

This comes on Friday, February 28, after Boston police obtained search warrants for the residence of 2 Guild Street in Roxbury.

Officers conducted surveillance of the area when they noticed Alcantara-Garcia exiting the residence and entering a vehicle. As he drove away, officers continued their surveillance and then safely conducted a traffic stop on Alcantara-Garcia, where he was taken into custody.

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Around 10:11 AM on the same day, officers executed a search warrant on the property, where they met Pimentel-Suero. Officers were able to seize:

Approximately 800 grams of cocaine packaged in various-sized bags

Approximately 129 grams of heroin packaged in various-sized bags

A Smith & Wesson 9mm firearm equipped with a 16-round magazine, loaded with four live rounds

Drug paraphernalia, including loose baggies, rolls of plastic baggies, clear plastic wrap, a bottle of lactose, a blender, a digital scale, scissors, and a card

An undisclosed amount of U.S. currency

As a result of the investigation, Pimentel-Suero was placed under arrest.

Both Pimentel-Suero and Alcantara-Garcia were charged with:

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Trafficking Cocaine (200 Grams or More)

Trafficking Heroin/Morphine/Fentanyl (100 Grams or More, Less Than 200 Grams)

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm

Unlawful Possession of Ammunition

Both individuals are expected to be arraigned in Roxbury District Court.

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Two new Wisconsin state historical markers will be erected this summer to honor the contributions of Milwaukee's 19th- and early 20th-century Chinese-American community.

The markers will be installed at the historic Forest Home Cemetery on the city's south side, where hundreds of its first Chinese immigrants and their families were laid to rest.

One marker will highlight Forest Home's Section 48, where much of this community was buried, and the Chinese Qingming Festival, or "tomb sweeping," tradition. The other marker will honor the entrepreneurs of the "Chinese Laundry Era," a period following the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act when Chinese immigrants  facing discrimination and immigration restrictions  often made a living owning laundries or restaurants.

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"We wanted to highlight aspects of our culture because we haven't really seen any Chinese historical markers," said Anna Wong, one of the directors of the Organization of Chinese Americans Wisconsin Chapter, which applied for the markers. "We selected Forest Home because the cemetery has this Chinese section that maybe many people do not know of."

This photo shows a state historical marker at the 16th Street Viaduct in Milwaukee, the site of over 200 days of protests calling for fair housing in 1967. The historical society said all markers look similar: cast aluminum with raised cream-colored letters on a brown background.

In 2021, the Wisconsin Historical Society, which administers the historical markers program, received a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation to diversify the stories represented by the markers. The New York-based foundation is committed to "celebrating history" through its multiple, nationwide historical marker grant programs.

This year, the grant will fund 12 new markers around Wisconsin, commemorating Black history, women's history, Indigenous peoples, recent immigration and other underrepresented populations, said WHS statewide services coordinator Mallory Hanson.

Wong said numerous groups submitted applications for Pomeroy Foundation grants, and both of OCA-Wisconsin's proposals were selected.

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More: Wisconsin has more than 600 historical markers. Here's where they come from

What was Milwaukee's Chinese Laundry Era?

The YWCA Southeast Wisconsin location at 1915 N. King Drive in Milwaukee was once home to Fred Moy Laundry, said Anna Wong, one of the directors of the Organization of Chinese Americans Wisconsin Chapter.

Early Chinese immigration to Milwaukee, and the rest of the U.S., was limited due to the 1882 Chinese Exclusion and 1892 Greary Acts, which severely restricted it until 1943.

Most of Milwaukee's first Chinese immigrants were single men or men who moved across the world from their families in search of economic success. Many hoped to eventually return to China or bring their families to America, Wong said, but were unable to due to the immigration restrictions, financial struggles and the Chinese Revolutions.

"As new immigrants, the language was not available to them ... and there was the discrimination, racism and prejudice that occurred due to us just being Chinese, so a lot of opportunities were limited," Wong said. "So, many men went into the laundry business, and they succeeded there through hard work and perseverance and supported their families."

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By 1930, Milwaukee had almost 60 Chinese-owned laundries and about 14 Chinese restaurants, according to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Encyclopedia of Milwaukee.

In 1947, the Chinese Relief Association purchased around 65 graves at Forest Home for men who died in Milwaukee without any family nearby, said Sara Tomilin, executive director of the Forest Home Historic Preservation Association. In 1952, the association bought another 51 graves, and 100 more were bought later. After the Chinese Exclusion Act was repealed in 1943, more families immigrated to Milwaukee. The Chinese community continued to lay its loved ones to rest in Section 48.

"Part of the reason for the markers is so that we honor (Milwaukee's early Chinese immigrants) and make sure that period of time is not forgotten," Wong said. "Racism existed, and some people, even the younger Chinese, might not understand the generations of hardships they had to go through."

Section 48 of Forest Home Cemetery on Milwaukee's south side is the final resting place for many of the city's early Chinese immigrants and their descendants. In 2025, the Wisconsin Historical Society will add two historical markers to the site, honoring the history and contributions of the Chinese-American community.

Historical marker will honor Chinese tomb-sweeping tradition

In addition to the Laundry Era marker, another marker will describe the Chinese Qingming Festival. The festival, which occurs 106 days after the Winter Solstice, is also known as "Tomb Sweeping Day." Families come together to clean the graves of their ancestors.

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"They come and pay their respects by either bringing food or incense or anything they believe in," Wong said.

She said the practice originated over 2,500 years ago during the Zhou Dynasty. While many in ancient times celebrated Qingming over a two-week period, families today generally mark it with one day, she said.

The grave marker for Fred Moy, a Chinese business owner buried in Forest Home Cemetery. Fred Moy Laundry in the Brewer's Hill neighborhood was one of many Chinese-owned laundries in Milwaukee in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Both markers will include titles written in Chinese characters. Wong said OCA-Wisconsin hopes to add a "peaceful place to sit and reflect and read the marker" to Section 48.

Initially, Wong said the organization had hoped to install the markers  which are in the final revision stages  in time for Qingming, which is April 4 this year. However, all Wisconsin historical markers are produced by one studio, and the studio is backed up about six months, Hanson said.

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"So far, we're still looking good for that summer 2025 installation, but it would depend on what the studio says their production is looking like," Hanson said.

Wong said OCA-Wisconsin plans to hold a celebratory event in conjunction with the markers' installation.

"We're very happy that we're able to have these markers up and have them in the community where they can be read and people can learn," she said. "It's a good way to educate and let people know about some of the history that might have been forgotten or lost throughout the years."

Other state historical markers are coming in 2025

Ten other state historical markers, including six in Milwaukee County, are coming to locations throughout Wisconsin this year, thanks to the Pomeroy Foundation grant.

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Here are upcoming markers, as described by the Wisconsin Historical Society:

Barron County: A marker developed in collaboration with the Barron County Historical Society will share the story of Ojibwe treaty rights and the Walleye Wars. Currently in the planning phase, installation of the new marker is expected in fall 2025.

Calumet County: In collaboration with the Calumet and Cross Heritage Society and the Brothertown Indian Nation, a new marker was installed in November 2024 to commemorate the Dick Family Cemetery. Calumet and Cross Heritage Society is also collaborating on a new historical marker to recognize the Brothertown Methodist Episcopal Church, with installation anticipated in 2025.

Crawford County: The Prairie du Chien Historical Society is collaborating with the Wisconsin Historical Society on two new historical markers sharing the stories of enslaved persons who lived in the area during the 19th century. Installation is expected in summer 2025.

Milwaukee County: In collaboration with the Midtown Neighborhood Alliance, a new marker will share the story of an African American-owned hospital that once stood at Lynden Hill. Installation is expected in summer 2025. In collaboration with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Archaeological Research Laboratory Center, a new marker will explore the significance of Wisconsin's first Black registered architect, Alonzo Robinson Jr. Installation is expected in fall 2025. Three new markers developed with the Wisconsin Black Historical Society will share the stories of important figures in Milwaukee's history including Ezekiel Gillespie, Lloyd Augustus Barbee and Bernice Lindsay. Installation is expected in fall 2025. The Wisconsin Hispanic Scholarship Foundation is collaborating on a new marker recognizing Latino urban civil rights activism that began in the 1960s. Marker installation is expected in fall 2025.



More: With the new Black Nite dedication, here are the Wisconsin historical landmarks in Milwaukee County

More: Wisconsin has 2,776 historic sites. None acknowledge the state's Latino history. That's changing.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: New Milwaukee historical markers to honor early Chinese entrepreneurs
LEWISBURG, WV (WVNS)  Two West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM) alumni were inducted into West Virginia Executive magazines Health Care Hall of Fame.

The West Virginia Executive magazines Health Care Hall of Fame shines a light on West Virginians who demonstrated deep dedication in the health care and supporting industries.

According to a press release, Dara Aliff, D.O., of WVSOMs Class of 1999, and Steven Eshenaur, D.O., of the Class of 1996, were entered into the hall with nine other health care professionals at a ceremony in Charleston on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

Dara Aliff, D.O., WVSOM Class of 1999 (Photo courtesy of WVSOM)

Steven Eshenaur, D.O., WVSOM Class of 1996 (Photo courtesy of WVSOM)

DoHS data demonstrates further reduction in overdose-related deaths statewide

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Aliff co-owns Premier Womens Health Specialists, a Charleston provider of OB-GYN services, since launching the practice with her husband in 2009. She advocates for women and children in the Mountain State through her position as a section president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, as well as through her position as a board member of the West Virginia Womens Alliance. She is also a member of the West Virginia Perinatal Partnership Committee, the release noted.

Aliff stated she finds enjoyment in her efforts to advocate for the health of residents of West Virignia.

Im proud of the work these organizations do to guide and change health care policy and policies that affect working women and mothers, such as child care and maternity leave issues. It felt like the right thing to do to stay and give back to the state that developed me into the person I am. Its an honor to be able to serve the women of West Virginia. Dara Aliff, D.O.

Aliff, who also serves as an instructor for WVSOM and the West Virginia University Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at Charleston Area Medical Center (CAMC), was student body president and a member of the Class of 1999 during her time as a student at WVSOM. She stated that her experiences during medical school were essential to how she practices medicine.

It was the most formative part of my life. Im still best friends with several of my classmates. Weve been able to call, text, and consult with one another. The school instilled in me a love for the art of medicine, and the support Ive received as an alum has been a game changer. Dara Aliff, D.O.

Carnegie Hall to host 31st Annual Creative Youth Art Exhibit

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Steven Eshenaur, D.O., began serving as executive director and public health officer of the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department in 2022. Once he graduated from WVSOM and finished his residency at CAMC, he became state surgeon for the West Virginia Army National Guard and was also a director of the emergency department and outpatient clinics at WVU Medicine Jackson General Hospital in the Ripley area of Jackson County.

The press release stated that Eshenaur also spent time at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Glen Jean as the volunteer medical director.

Eshenaur is an advocate for immunization in kids and adults, making him a valuable resource for educating the public and as a source of information regarding public health. As well as working with the health department, he continued his work in emergency rooms, mainly at Jackson General Hospital and WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg.

I continue to work in clinical medicine in emergency rooms in West Virginia, which lets me see firsthand the effects of deficiencies in public health. That encourages me to continue to strive to improve our public health and keep people out of the hospital. Patient-centric medical education has helped drive my personal approach toward medicine. And Im proud that WVSOM puts more primary care providers into our communities than the other medical schools. We desperately need that, especially in rural communities. Steven Eshenaur, D.O.

Robert C. Byrd Clinic appoints Amy Jasperse to American College of Culinary Medicine Advisory Board

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In 2018, Eshenaur was named a Sharp Shooter by West Virginia Executive, a recognition for West Virginians that stand out in their fields, participate in community service, embark on philanthropic endeavors and work to advance the Mountain State into the future.

James W. Nemitz, Ph.D., WVSOMs president, commended both physicians for the mark their work has left on the state.

Drs. Aliff and Eshenaur are outstanding WVSOM alumni who have made significant contributions to health care in our state. They are both exceptional physicians who are committed to making a difference in the lives of West Virginians. James W. Nemitz, Ph.D. | President, WVSOM

David Ramsey, who served on WVSOMs Board of Governors from 2013 to 2021, also entered the Health Care Hall of Fame. Ramsey serves as president and chief executive officer of Vandalia Health.

For more information regarding the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, visit their website.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WVNS.
Why are there never coup attempts inside the United States? an old joke among left-wing activists in Latin America goes. Because there is no U.S. embassy there.

Its a reference to U.S. actions during the Cold War to undermine democratically elected governments across the region, including Guatemalan President Jacobo Arbenz in the 1950s and Chilean President Salvador Allende in the 1970s. Under the auspices of fighting communism, Washington backed right-wing military coups and dictatorships throughout the hemisphere. As late as the 1980s, Jeanne Kirkpatricka foreign policy adviser to then-President Ronald Reagan who later served as his ambassador to the United Nationsissued a defense of authoritarian regimes that she believed helped to protect their populations from even worse revolutionary ideologies.

But the joke was outdated even before January 2021, when then-U.S. President Donald Trump tried to overturn the outcome of the 2020 presidential election. In fact, over recent decades, the view of the United States as a defender of authoritarianism, at least in Latin America, has become an anachronism. Eventually, Washington lent support to the Concertacion coalition that defeated then-dictator Augusto Pinochet at the polls and led to the reestablishment of democracy in Chile in 1990. And in 2001, the U.S. backed the Inter-American Democratic Charter, which clearly states in its opening that [t]he peoples of the Americas have a right to democracy and their governments have an obligation to promote and defend it, while promising to remove nondemocratic governments from various hemispheric institutions.

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More recently, perhaps the top three achievements of former President Joe Bidens policies in Latin America all came in defense of democracy. His administration supported a democratic transition in Honduras in 2021 after Xiomara Castro defeated the ruling National Partys candidate in the countrys presidential election that year. Washington then had outgoing President Juan Orlando Hernandez, who had stolen Honduras 2017 presidential election, extradited on drug-trafficking charges so he could no longer interfere in domestic politics. A year later, Bidens team pressured Brazils military leadership to stay clear of a coup attempt led by outgoing President Jair Bolsonaro after Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva won that countrys presidential election in 2022. And the Biden team safeguarded an incredibly difficult presidential transition in Guatemala at the end of 2023 to ensure that President Bernardo Arevalo took office, overcoming the efforts of that countrys corrupt elites to keep him from power.

To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter.

U.S. funding and leadership has become a critical part of the scaffolding and infrastructure for promoting democracy and civil society throughout Latin America.

The U.S. record is far from perfect, and this column will no doubt provoke responses detailing the many wrongs Washington has committed in the region in recent years. But the U.S. really did shift toward a more pro-democracy stance in Latin America since the end of the Cold War. As part of that shift, the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, funded numerous local NGOs that promoted human rights and anti-corruption efforts. The National Endowment for Democracya government-funded semi-autonomous organizationbacked training for political parties and civil society that contributed to grassroots civic activism at the heart of democratic values, winning NED the hatred of authoritarian leaders who viewed those efforts as a violation of their sovereignty. Various other U.S. agencies also provide grants for research and think tank work that is critical to policy debates in the region. All those efforts go beyond the specific episodes, such as those by the Biden administration, when the U.S. government backed a democratic movement at a critical moment. They were cooked into U.S. policy in nearly every country.

That is not to say that U.S. support is the only thing sustaining democracy in Latin America. Democracy cant be imposed from abroad. The biggest efforts come from the people of Latin America, who work to improve their countries governance on a daily basis. They deserve far more credit than the U.S. does. But U.S. funding and leadership has become a critical part of the scaffolding and infrastructure for promoting democracy and civil society throughout the hemisphere.

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Many groups have come to depend on it and were not prepared for the shock of recent weeks, when with minimal warning, that scaffolding was suddenly ripped away after Trump returned to the White House in January. Working through the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, run by Elon Musk, the Trump administration has put a freeze on nearly all foreign aid. Even programs that supposedly received waivers remain stuck in limbo, and payments that U.S. judges have ordered USAID to unfreeze do not seem to be flowing. In my conversations with analysts and activists across Latin America in February, Ive been stunned by the sheer number of accounts Ive heard of offices closing and laying off employees, important humanitarian assistance being cut and contracts not being paid by the U.S. government, even for work that has already been completed. It will likely take months before the full extent of the job losses and program shutdowns are reported.

Authoritarians around the region are gleeful at the turn of events. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has taken to Twitter/X to encourage Musk to cut funding for NED, whose efforts Bukele portrayed as not only wasted but bad for the region. Bukele has also cheered on both Trumps efforts to defy the judicial branch and calls by Trumps supporters to remove judges who attempt to block his policies.

In the short term, civil society organizations in Latin America are just trying to survive long enough to find new funding sources. Many op-eds have been written discussing how China or other global powers may fill the vacuum as the U.S. withdraws from its influential position in the region. But so far, there is just a vacuum. Contrary to the accusations thrown around by DOGE about waste, fraud and abuse, the vast majority of these NGOs and political parties were never particularly well-funded. They survived on shoestring budgets, and replacing the funds for any one of them would be a drop in the bucket for an interested patron. But for every organization that finds a new source of funding, many others will be forced to shut down. No other country or global institution has the resources and interest to fund these groups at the level the U.S. did just a few months ago.

The long-term implications of this cut are incredibly damaging to U.S. interests. Along with the shock, the sudden collapse of funding is generating a sense of betrayal among civil society in Latin Americawith good reason. The U.S. has broken its promises and let them down. They wont easily trust the dependability of U.S. support in the future. Decades of efforts by the U.S. to shed its Cold War reputation are being swiftly undermined, not by an activist foreign policy that directly supports dictators, but by one that cuts off aid to the grassroots organizations on the front lines of Latin Americas efforts to push back creeping authoritarianism.

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If and when the U.S. tries to readopt a more supportive role for democracy and civil society four or eight years from now, it will likely find a much more hostile and distrustful environment. That will benefit the United States adversaries around the world, but more immediately it will benefit democracys adversaries in the region.

James Bosworth is the founder of Hxagon, a firm that does political risk analysis and bespoke research in emerging and frontier markets, as well as a global fellow at the Wilson Centers Latin America Program. He has two decades of experience analyzing politics, economics and security in Latin America and the Caribbean.

The post U.S. Aid Is Crucial to Defending Democracy in Latin America appeared first on World Politics Review.
HONOLULU (KHON2)  While the United States ranks at the top of the world for its Gross Domestic Product (GDP), it has the largest economy in the world with the highest paid workers.

The U.S. is ranked top of the heap for its economic power, and we are ranked at the top for both importing goods and exporting products.

Get Hawaiis latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You

We are also ranked at the top for global economic influence, innovation and finance with a commanding position amongst the global markets.

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Here are the significantly lower rankings of other countries who need to offer incentives for foreign investment.

Greece

Program: Permanent Residence Permit.

Investment: 250,000 ($262,800) in real estate.

Renewal: Every five years.

Economy: Greece has a diversified economy with a strong focus on tourism, shipping, and agriculture. It ranks as the 51st largest economy in the world by GDP.

Global ranking: GDP: $327 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Greeces economy has been recovering since the financial crisis, showing positive growth rates in recent years.

International ranking: Greece ranks 30th in the world for tourism (important for its economy) and 22nd in global shipping.



Malta

Program: Citizenship.

Investment: 600,000 ($630,000) for 36 months of residence.

Benefit: Grants full citizenship.

Economy: Maltas economy is highly service-oriented, focusing on finance, tourism, and IT. It ranks as the 127th largest economy by GDP globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $17.6 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Malta has one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe, driven by technology, tourism, and investment services.

International ranking: Malta is ranked 1st in Europe for its GDP growth rate in recent years.

Italy

Program: Investor Visa.

Investment: 250,000 to 2 million, depending on the type of investment.

Benefit: Visa-free access to Schengen Area.

Economy: Italy has a diverse and industrial economy, with significant sectors in manufacturing (especially luxury goods), automotive, and agriculture. It ranks as the 8th largest economy globally by GDP.

Global ranking: GDP: $2.1 trillion (2023 estimate). Growth: Italys economy is large but faces long-term stagnation issues, particularly in southern regions.

International ranking: Italy is 4th in Europe for GDP and is a leading economy in the luxury and fashion industries.

Cyprus

Program: Golden Visa.

Investment: 300,000 ($315,000).

Benefit: Grants residence.

Economy : Cypruss economy is driven by services, particularly financial services, tourism, and shipping. It ranks as the 118th largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $27.4 billion (2023 estimate) . Growth: Cyprus has experienced strong economic recovery post-2013, largely due to banking reforms and the expansion of its services sector.

International ranking: Cyprus is ranked as 22nd globally in shipping and 35th in financial services.



United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Program: UAE Golden Visa.

Investment: 2 million dirhams ($544,602).

Benefit: Grants a residence permit.

Economy: The UAE has a highly diversified economy, with oil, tourism, aviation, and real estate contributing significantly. It ranks as the 32nd largest economy globally by GDP.

Global ranking: GDP: $501 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: The UAE economy is one of the fastest growing in the Gulf region, thanks to diversification efforts, particularly in tourism and real estate.

International ranking: UAE is ranked 1st in the Middle East for economic diversification and 16th globally for ease of doing business.



Dominica

Program: Citizenship by Investment.

Investment: $200,000.

Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family.

Economy: Dominicas economy is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and services. It ranks as the 165th largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $0.6 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Dominica has been growing at a modest rate, with significant improvements in tourism and services.

International ranking: Dominica is ranked 5th in the Caribbean for tourism growth.

Grenada

Program: Citizenship by Investment.

Investment: $235,000.

Benefit: Visa-free travel to Grenada, China, Russia, Singapore, Britain, and Schengen Area.

Economy: Grenada has a small, open economy, focused on agriculture (especially spices), tourism, and services. It ranks as the 170th largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $1.3 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Tourism and agriculture are key sectors, with growth driven by these industries.

International ranking: Grenada is ranked 6th in the Caribbean for tourism and has access to significant markets like China and Russia.

St. Kitts and Nevis

Program: Citizenship by Investment.

Investment: $250,000.

Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family.

Economy: The economy relies on tourism, agriculture, and increasingly on financial services. It ranks as the 175th largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $1.0 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Economic growth is driven by tourism, sugar, and increasing offshore financial services.

International ranking: St. Kitts is ranked 4th in the Caribbean for its banking and finance services.

Saint Lucia

Program: Citizenship by Investment.

Investment: $240,000.

Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family.

Economy: Dominated by tourism, agriculture, and services, Saint Lucia has a small but growing economy. It ranks as the 171st largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $2.2 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: The country has made strides in improving its tourism infrastructure.

International ranking: Saint Lucia is ranked 3rd in the Caribbean for tourism.

Antigua and Barbuda

Program: Citizenship by Investment.

Investment: $230,000.

Benefit: Full citizenship for the applicant and family.

Economy: Antigua and Barbuda has a tourism-driven economy, supplemented by agriculture and financial services. It ranks as the 162nd largest economy globally.

Global Ranking: GDP: $1.7 billion (2023 estimate) . Growth: Economic growth is primarily driven by tourism and related services.

International ranking: Antigua is ranked 2nd in the Caribbean for its tourism growth.

Thailand

Program: Thailand Privilege Residence Program. Investment: 650,000 baht ($19,299). Benefit: Residence for up to 20 years, access to privileged services.

Program: Long Term Residence Program. Investment: 50,000 baht ($1,453). Benefit: Residence and work for up to 10 years, reduced administrative requirements.

Economy: Thailand has a well-diversified economy, with strong sectors in manufacturing, agriculture, and services, including tourism. It ranks as the 26th largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $568 billion (2023 estimate). Growth: Thailand has a moderately growing economy, with manufacturing and tourism driving growth.

International ranking: Thailand is ranked 9th globally in automotive manufacturing and is 1st in Southeast Asia for tourism.



Indonesia

Program: Long-Term Visa (Launched 2024).

Investment: Up to $10 million.

Benefit: 10-year visa and access to Southeast Asias largest economy.

Economy: Indonesias economy is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, with significant contributions from natural resources, manufacturing, and agriculture. It ranks as the 17th largest economy globally.

Global ranking: GDP: $1.3 trillion (2023 estimate). Growth: Indonesias economy is growing steadily, with a booming middle class and strong export sectors.

International ranking: Indonesia is ranked 5th globally in production of palm oil and 1st in Southeast Asia for GDP.



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Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHONs morning podcast, every morning at 8

The era of golden visas is upon us.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KHON2.
During the 2024 presidential election, farming-dependent counties overwhelmingly voted for Donald Trump. Almost 78% endorsed his most recent presidential run, and a similar  albeit slightly smaller  percentage backed Trump in 2020.

But President Trumps early 2025 policies are hurting farming communities. And now, some of those voters may be regretting their decision.

Don't miss

USAID closure causes pain on home soil

Since taking office, President Trump has effectively shut down USAID, a program designed to provide humanitarian relief abroad, causing immediate impact to USAID workers and struggling communities overseas.

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But as PBS NewsHour reveals, the pain is being felt on home soil, too by farmers, too, as USAID buys roughly $2 billion of products from farmers every year, its also caused a world of distress for U.S. farmers

Roughly 86% of the companies that have contracts with USAID are American, according to aid data company DevelopmentAid. USAID Stop-Work, a group tracking the impact of the recent shutdown, says USAID contractors report laying off nearly 13,000 American workers, including those affiliated with a program at the Soybean Innovation Lab which has opened international markets to U.S. farmers.

Read more: Home prices in America could fly through the roof in 2025  heres the big reason why and how to take full advantage (with as little as $10)

Freeze on USDA programs costs farmers

In addition to shuttering USAID, the Trump administration has frozen a number of USDA programs, putting billions of dollars in loans and grants promised to farmers at risk, including renewable energy programs and programs promoting new crops.

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Now farmers who invested thousands of dollars in crops, solar energy and other initiatives upfront expecting money back are frustrated. That includes farmers like Travis Forgues, who invested in a new solar array to power his operation.

You cant have people spend this kind of money and then just pull the rug, Travis Forgues told Midwest Investigates. I didnt spend the money thinking maybe Ill get it back. I spent the money because we had a signed contract.

Massachusetts farmer and beekeeper Ang Roell planned to install deer-proof fencing and an orchard irrigation system with $30,000 in USDA grants that have since been placed on hold.

We risk losing the plants because we cant keep up with the watering schedule, Roell told NBC News.

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Meanwhile, Laura Beth Resnick of Butterbee Farm in Maryland is on the hook for $36,000 she spent on solar panels through the USDAs frozen renewable energy program. Shes not only worried about her own operation, but her fellow farmers across the country.

Already, farmers are shrinking their businesses, she told PBS. And I'm really afraid about the future of farming if all these programs just go away.

Tariffs and immigration laws hit farmers, too

Farmers are also feeling an outsized impact from the Trump administrations policies on tariffs and undocumented immigrants.

An estimated 42% of U.S. farm workers are undocumented. Deporting them could result in a widespread labor shortage, resulting in higher prices, and shortages of essentials that American consumers rely on.

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Chuck Nicholson, associate professor of agricultural and applied economics at UW-Madison, told Wisconsin Public Radio that the combination of tariffs and deportations "will pose some pretty significant economic challenges for the farmers of Wisconsin and the U.S. generally."

Equipment that U.S. farmers rely on is often imported. Adding tariffs to the costs of equipment imported from China, Mexico, Canada and other countries will squeeze American farmers.

In addition, the U.S. imports 80% of its potash  used in fertilizer  from Canada. American farmers would have to recoup the 25% extra they would pay in tariffs on Canadian products. The end results of these costs may be passed onto consumers in higher prices.

Trumps tariffs could also trigger retaliatory tariffs on U.S. products in other countries, as they did during his first administration, hurting prices and international demand for products like soybeans, pork, and dairy.

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Mexico, Canada, and China were the destinations for 50% of all U.S. dairy exports in 2023. Nicholson warns that imposing sweeping tariffs on these countries will cause more harm than good.

Consumers may need to brace for the impact, whether that means shelling out more for everyday food products or adjusting for the fact that some may soon be in short supply.

What to read next

Jamie Dimon issues a warning about the US stock market  says prices are 'kind of inflated.' Crashproof your portfolio with these 3 rock-solid strategies

I like this stuff: Self-made $500M mogul and YouTuber reveals his essential US portfolio that he says Amazon cant hurt  heres his secret formula and how you can copy it in 2025

Rich, young Americans are ditching the stormy stock market  here are the alternative assets they're banking on instead

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WSAV)  In celebration of the Navys 250th anniversary, the United States Navy Band will perform a free concert. This auspicious event takes place March 29, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Georgia Southern University  Armstrong Campus.

Combining three of Navy Bands elite ensembles, the Concert Band, Sea Chanters chorus and Cruisers popular music group, audience members can expect to hear a wide variety of musical selections sure to delight audiences of all ages.

WASHINGTON (Oct. 6, 2024) Members of the U.S. Navy Band (U.S. Navy photo by Master Chief Musician Adam Grimm)

In 2025, the United States Navy celebrates 250 years of defending freedom and protecting Americas interests around the world. As the premier musical organization of the U.S. Navy, the United States Navy Band is honored to mark this historic milestone throughout the year.

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Capt. Robert Seph Coats, commanding officer of the U.S. Navy Band says, Touring the nation and performing concerts means connecting with communities and telling the great stories of our Sailors working around the globe to keep us safe and free.

Click here to reserve free tickets.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSAV-TV.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered U.S. Cyber Command to halt cyber-offense operations against Russia, according to reports. That comes as President Donald Trump is seeking to end Russia's war on Ukraine and warm up to Moscow.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has instructed U.S. Cyber Command to pause offensive cyber and information operations against Russia, according to reports.

He recently ordered the unit to stand down planning against Russian cybersecurity threats, sources told The Record. The order doesn't apply to the National Security Agency or its signals intelligence targeting Russia.

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Cyber Command has started putting together a "risk assessment" that lists what actions or missions were halted due to Hegseth's order and explains what potential threats could come from Russia, the report added.

"Due to operational security concerns, we do not comment nor discuss cyber intelligence, plans, or operations," a senior defense official told Fortune. "There is no greater priority to Secretary Hegseth than the safety of the Warfighter in all operations, to include the cyber domain."

Meanwhile, a separate report from the Washington Post said the pause that Hegseth ordered is meant to remain in effect while negotiations to end Russia's war on Ukraine are ongoing as President Donald Trump seeks terms that are seen as favorable to Moscow.

The cyber-offense operations being halted stop short of acts of war, sources told the Post, and could include disabling malware on Russian networks or blocking Russian hackers from servers they might use. Another source said planning for potential cyber-operations is continuing.

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Such a pause in operations isn't unheard-of.

I have seen many times when we are in some type of negotiation with another nation, especially if its one that is considered an adversary, that we stop operations, exercises, we even cancel speeches sometimes, Retired Lt. Gen. Charlie Tuna Moore told the Post. Its fairly common to pause anything that could potentially derail the talks.

But it comes as the administration has broken with European allies over Russia's war on Ukraine. That was underscored Friday, when a public meeting at the White House between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky turned into a screaming match.

Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-Miss.) condemned Hegseths order to the Cyber Command, saying the government now lacks the ability to counter Russian cyber threats.

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To capitulate now, as we appear to bail on our allies in Ukraine, is an inexplicable dereliction of duty that puts American critical infrastructure at risk, Thompson told the Post.

Elsewhere in the Trump administration, there have been notable omissions of Russia as a cybersecurity threat.

In a speech before a United Nations working group on cybersecurity, Liesyl Franz, deputy assistant secretary for international cybersecurity at the State Department, raised cyberspace concerns about China and Iran, but didn't mention Russia.

In the same meeting, the European Union and the United Kingdom emphasized their concerns with Russian cyber threats. The U.K. said that Russia was using offensive and hostile cyberattacks in its illegal invasion of Ukraine.

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"We continue to view Russia as a malign cyber actor," a State Department spokesperson said.

And a memo released by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), a branch of the Department of Homeland Security that detects cyber threats to U.S. essential infrastructure, outlined the agencys new decree prioritizing China and safeguarding local systems. It, too, did not name Russia.

Although Russian threats have previously been the primary focus of the agency, a person familiar with the matter told the Guardian that analysts at CISA were verbally briefed to not follow or report threats from the country. They also said that ongoing work with Russian-related projects was effectively nixed.

Another person who worked on U.S. joint task forces to track and fight Russian cyber threats told the Guardian this was truly shocking.

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There are thousands of U.S. government employees and military working daily on the massive threat Russia poses as possibly the most significant nation state threat actor, they said. Not to diminish the significance of China, Iran, or North Korea, but Russia is at least on par with China as the most significant cyber threat.

A DHS spokesperson told Fortune that the memo isn't from the administration and that CISA remains committed to addressing threats from Russia and hasn't changed its posture.

The U.S. has long considered Moscow as a threat to national cybersecurity. And last year, the U.S. reiterated the risk of Russian cyberattacks in its annual threat assessment.

Russia will pose an enduring global cyber threat even as it prioritizes cyber operations for the Ukrainian war, the report said. Moscow views cyber disruptions as a foreign policy level to shape other countries decisions and continuously refines and employs its espionage, influence, and attack capabilities against a variety of targets.

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The report specified that Russia maintains the ability to attack underwater cables and industrial control systems within the U.S., its allies, and partner countries.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
The U.S. Senate is poised to vote this week on reversing an Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rule, that the crypto industry has declared a serious threat to decentralized finance (DeFi), according to a person familiar with the Senate's planning.

The IRS's attempt in December to expand the world of brokers required to disclose certain tax information ensnared crypto DeFi projects, and some senators are seeking to use the powers of the Congressional Review Act to erase it, along with another 11th-hour regulation: a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule on digital payment applications.

Senator Ted Cruz introduced a CRA resolution to throw out the IRS work, and Senator Pete Ricketts is behind the CFPB resolution, both of which are being programmed for action this week, the person said.

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The Biden administration did everything it could to stifle financial innovation in the United States, threatening to send digital asset companies overseas," Majority Leader John Thune said in a statement. "The Senate is working to undo these burdensome regulations one at a time to restore financial freedom for the American people.

The House Financial Services Committee moved last week to send a matching IRS resolution to the House floor for a vote, and a Senate action would further propel the effort, which needs approvals in both chambers and a presidential signature before it becomes law.

"In a midnight move, the Biden administration issued their decentralized finance rule, which directly and immediately would harm American cryptocurrency innovation and drive development overseas," said Cruz, the Texas Republican leading the charge against the IRS rule. "This week Congress will vote on my resolution to rescind that regulation. I'm confident we will.

Such reversals of federal agency rules must happen under tight timelines, because removing the work of the regulators is governed by deadlines in the CRA, based on a limited window of legislative days since each regulation was approved. As in President Donald Trump's first administration, his second is similarly making it a priority to reverse some of the work of his predecessor's regulators.

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The CFPB rule calls for large tech companies that offer digital wallets and payment apps and process a high level of consumer payments  including such giants as Apple, Amazon and Google  to be regulated more intensively, like the big U.S. banks are.

Following their election loss, the Biden-Harris CFPB rushed an eleventh-hour rule to attack non-bank digital consumer payment applications, said Senator Ricketts, a Nebraska Republican, in a statement. This one-size-fits-all solution in search of a problem unnecessarily expands the CFPBs authority. Our legislation eliminates barriers to innovation, cuts red tape, and supports our job-creators.

These two rules finalized in the last days of the administration of President Joe Biden came from a pair of entities that have been bright on Republican lawmakers' radar: the IRS and CFPB. U.S. taxation has been a top priority of the new administration, as has the party's goal to sideline the consumer-protection regulator.

Also this week, the White House is planning a crypto summit for March 7, according to Trump's crypto czar, David Sacks, who posted about it on social media. The announcement said it will include founders, CEOs and relevant regulators.

Read More: U.S. House Committee Advances Effort to Erase IRS' DeFi Tax Rule
Marco Rubio touched on a range of topics during his first international trip as U.S. secretary of state in early February. The visit to Central America and the Caribbean included conversations about the Panama Canal in Panama, nuclear energy in El Salvador and he fight against fentanyl trafficking in Guatemala.

Curiously absent from Rubios agenda, however, was a longstanding U.S. priority in the region: the fight against corruption. The change in policy became even more clear on Feb. 10, when President Donald Trump signaled plans to suspend enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits U.S. companies from bribing foreign officials. This shift is a mistake that will make the Trump administrations goal of tackling migration far more difficult.

The instinct to give up on the fight against corruption is, in some ways, understandable. As Rubio suggested in an interview with Fox News, policing foreign officials might upset the host government and derail cooperation on Washingtons other priorities.

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For the Trump administration, a single-minded focus on slowing migration and accelerating deportations of undocumented immigrants makes it particularly important that issues such as corruption and democratic decline do not sour diplomatic relations. The biggest announcements during Rubios trip all focused on migration, including El Salvadors offer to detain deported members of Venezuelas Tren de Aragua gang in its notorious megaprison and Guatemalas pledge to accept deportees of any nationality.

To get more in-depth news and expert analysis on global affairs from WPR, sign up for our free Daily Review newsletter.

The apparent decision to put anti-corruption efforts on the backburner will be welcomed by many political and economic elites across the region. Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, for instance, has had multiple allies singled out by the State Department for alleged corruption. He recently cheered on widespread layoffs at the U.S. Agency for International Development, or USAID, which has sought to increase transparency in foreign governments.

The same is true for Honduras, where four officials from the government of former President Manuel Zelayathe husband of incumbent President Xiomara Castrohave been targeted by the State Department. Honduras opposition National Party is also no fan of U.S. anti-corruption efforts; former President Juan Orlando Hernandez, a member of the conservative party, is in prison in the United States for drug trafficking.

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Even many honest businesses across the region might hope the U.S. migration agenda crowds out anti-corruption policy. After all, attracting foreign investment is easier without the stigma of U.S. corruption allegations.

Still, the battle against corruption is well worth fighting. The abuse of public resources for private gain is pervasive, and corrosive, throughout Central America. Guatemala and Honduras are tied for 154th out of 180 countries in Transparency Internationals Corruption Perception Index. El Salvador, where constitutional rights have been suspended for almost three years amid Bukeles war on gangs, is ranked 126th. And those scores have consistently worsened in recent years.

Without U.S. assistance, there is little hope for renewed progress in what just a decade ago seemed like a promising moment in the fight against corruption in Central America.

Among their pernicious effects, bribes distort government decisions, waste taxpayer money, reduce the quality of public services and infrastructure, compromise public health and safety, increase the influence of criminal organizations over state institutions and provide inroads for Chinese and Russian influence. And while Washingtons complaints about corruption in Central America might give foreign investors pause, so does corruption.

The cost of corruption was painfully evident during the pandemic, amid scandals involving fake COVID-19 tests in Guatemala and kickbacks in Honduras that inflated the cost of mobile hospitals. In all, corruption costs Latin America and the Caribbean $220 billion per year, according to the Inter-American Development Bank. Combined, these factors help create the sense of hopelessness that pushes many Latin Americans to abandon their countries in search of a better life in the United States.

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Corruption in Central America also makes U.S. foreign assistance less effective. In recent years, the United States has offered significant foreign aid to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, but the region still suffers from high levels of violence and poverty.

That is one of the reasons lawmakers from both parties supported the creation of the so-called Engel List in 2020. The listnamed after then-House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engelrequired the State Department to create an annual report to Congress naming individuals in El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua who have undermined democracy or engaged in significant corruption. It also authorized the imposition of targeted sanctions, including travel bans.

But the section of the law that authorized travel bans expired in late 2023 and was not renewed. In the three years before that, the State Department singled out at least 184 individuals, including five former presidents, and banned their travel. The public shaming and travel bans were in many cases the only punishment for these individuals, whose wealth and political connections at home serve as a get out of jail free card.

Guatemalan Attorney General Consuelo Porras, for example, landed on the Engel List in 2021 for a campaign of retribution against prosecutors and judges involved in fighting public corruption. The move was part of an effort by then-President Joe Biden to keep Porras from being reappointed ahead of Guatemalas 2023 presidential election. That effort failed, and sure enough, Porras tried to disqualify the first-round winner, Bernardo Arevalo.

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In response, Rep. Michael McCaul, who had co-sponsored the law that established the Engel List and was then chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, called on Biden to make full use of the Engel List travel ban to punish Porras and other undemocratic and corrupt actors in Guatemala. The Biden administration did just that, adding another element to a pressure campaign that helped Arevalo stay on the ballot and resist post-election efforts by Porras to prevent him from taking office.

There was always bipartisan agreement that fighting corruption was a necessary step to reducing irregular migration from Central America, Engel, who left office in 2021 after 32 years in Congress, told me. My legislation with Congressman McCaul made it clear that corruption and undemocratic actions would be met with consequences.

Today, the State Department is still required to publish the names of corrupt and undemocratic actors in those countries, but it can no longer ban their travel. Fully reauthorizing the Engel List would be a good place to start for U.S. lawmakers to resume their role in promoting the rule of law in Latin America.

To be sure, the Engel List is no substitute for a comprehensive U.S. anti-corruption strategy, including rigorous enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Targets of the Engel List complain about the secretive and arbitrary selection process, their inability to appeal and the absence of any path to absolution.

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But in a region where elites have close ties to the United States, the Engel Lists travel ban serves as a deterrent to anyone who fears public humiliation and the loss of access to property, medical care, overseas relatives and recreation in the United States. It also helps foreign populations determine which actors are corrupt in countries without independent prosecutors and courts.

Without U.S. assistance, there is little hope for renewed progress in what just a decade ago seemed like a promising moment in the fight against corruption in the region. The Brazilian-led regional investigation into bribes paid by the construction giant Odebrecht has petered out. In 2019, Guatemala shut down its successful United Nations-led anti-corruption mission. The next year, Honduras refused to renew a similar initiative by the Organization of American States, and Honduras current president has backtracked on her campaign pledge to open a U.N. anti-corruption office in Tegucigalpa. Civil society watchdogs, including journalists, are under pressure from governments and gangsters who act with impunity throughout the region.

Perhaps most short-sighted about the apparent pause in U.S. anti-corruption efforts is that even narrow U.S. migration objectives would be better served by tackling corruption. After all, no amount of deportations will be enough to dissuade Salvadorans, Guatemalans, Hondurans and Nicaraguans from journeying north to escape violence and poverty, both of which are dramatically worsened by public corruption.

Benjamin N. Gedan is director of the Latin America Program at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. He also serves as an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University. He was formerly a South America director on the White House National Security Council during the Obama administration.

The post The U.S. Shouldnt Abandon Anti-Corruption Efforts in Central America appeared first on World Politics Review.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  The U.S. Supreme Court signaled last week it is likely to rule in favor of an Ohio woman who claims she was discriminated against at work because she is straight.

Marlean Ames brought a claim against the Ohio Department of Youth Services under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits sex discrimination in the workplace after a lesbian woman was hired for a promotion Ames also applied for. Ames said she was then demoted and replaced by a gay man.

After the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Cincinnati ruled in favor of the department, she turned to the Supreme Court. Should the court decide in Ames favor, the ruling could lower the bar for people belonging to majority groups to bring reverse discrimination claims.

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Ohio Intel plant construction in New Albany delayed by at least three years

Ames lawyers are challenging legal precedent set by some lower courts that says someone from a majority group has to meet a higher bar for a discrimination case to continue than someone from a minority group. However, during oral arguments on Feb. 26, several justices noted that precedent is not consistent with federal employment law.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett argued that the court should rule for Ames because it doesnt matter if she was gay or whether she was straight, she would have the exact same burden and be treated the exact same way under Title VII. Justice Neil Gorsuch seemed to agree, saying a ruling in Ames favor on that point would be a wise course to follow.

Ohio Solicitor General T. Elliot Gaiser, representing Ohio officials, defended the lower courts ruling in favor of the department, but said that everyone here agrees that everyone should be treated equally. Still, Gaiser argued that Ames failed to show she had been discriminated against.

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The state said Ames was demoted because new leadership in the department wanted to restructure to prioritize sexual violence in the juvenile corrections system. Ames led a program aimed at combating rape in prison but was seen as difficult to work with, according to the states court papers. Officials involved in making those decisions are straight, the state said.

Ohio State cuts diversity offices, programming

If the Supreme Court rules in Ames favor, it could affect workplace discrimination claims, like those for white people who claim they face racial discrimination as a result of diversity, equity and inclusion policies, which have been targeted recently by the Trump administration.

America First Legal, a conservative group, filed a brief in Ames case citing other cases it has brought against various companies, including Starbucks and IBM, alleging race and sex discrimination.

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Where applied, the background circumstances rule is an atextual, unconstitutional, and arbitrary obstacle to the vindication of employees nondiscrimination rights, the groups lawyers said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday upheld the decision made by the Utah Supreme Court to overturn the death sentence of a Utah man convicted of murdering a woman in 1985 to keep her from testifying against him.

The justices declined to hear the case, leaving the lower courts decision intact. The court did not provide any commentary on why it supported the conviction of Douglas Lovell for the murder of Joyce Yost and then the dismissal of the death sentence.

More than 30 years ago, Lovell was sentenced for abducting and killing Yost so that she couldnt testify against him in court for raping her, investigators argued. He first pleaded guilty and received a death sentence. But after withdrawing his plea, he admitted guilt again during his second trial but instructed his lawyers to focus on avoiding the death penalty.

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In 2021, Lovell challenged his death sentence by arguing that both his legal representation and the influence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints  from which he was excommunicated deprived him of a fair trial. However, the 2021 ruling rejected the claim that the church played an improper role.

This evidence prejudiced Lovells ability to have a jury fairly weigh the aggravating and mitigating factors, as Utahs capital sentencing statute requires, before it sentenced him to death, the Utah high court had concluded. Lovell is entitled to a sentencing hearing free from this improper and prejudicial evidence.

Lovell, 67, was convicted of murder in 2015, marking the second time he was sentenced to death row for killing Yost. He was first charged in 1992, seven years after the killing took place. His then-wife traded immunity for details on Lovells murder plot.

Authorities said he initially tried to have two others carry out the killing but ended up doing it himself when that plan fell through.

Yosts body has never been recovered.
A large fire broke out overnight at the Ufimsky oil refinery in the Russian city of Ufa some 1,400 kilometers inside Russia, local authorities reported on March 3.

Regional emergency services said the fire had been extinguished, adding: "No excess of harmful substances has been recorded near the plant."

No cause was given but Ukrainian forces have repeatedly launched a series of drone strikes aimed at damaging Russia's oil industry beginning in the spring of 2024.

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Russian Telegram channels reported an explosion at the refinery before the fire broke out. The Kyiv Independent could not verify the reports.

Ukrainian attack drones successfully conducted one of the deepest strikes of the war tonight, hitting Russias Ufa Oil Refinery, over 1300 km behind the frontline.



The Russian refinery is burning. pic.twitter.com/dKF9EjINLR  OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) March 2, 2025

Ukraine considers Russian oil facilities to be valid military targets, as fossil fuel profits supply Moscow's war operations.

Kyiv has not commented on the fire.

The refinery, owned by Bashneft, has a processing capacity of 168,000 barrels per day, with its oil supply mainly coming from Bashkiria and western Siberia.

It is one of Russias largest oil refineries. Ufa, the capital of Russia's Bashkortostan Republic, lies 1,520 km east of Moscow and 550 km north of Kazakhstan's border.

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Read also: Ill need more ammo  Ukraines soldiers react to Trump-Zelensky Oval Office showdown

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The News

French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have taken the lead on developing a peace plan for Ukraine as both leaders seek to act as intermediaries between Kyiv and Washington after Fridays Oval Office meltdown between US President Donald Trump and Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy left future American support in doubt.

How much progress has been made is unclear: Macron has suggested an initial month-long ceasefire, but a British official appeared to rebuff the idea.

The scramble follows a pledge from Kyivs European allies to ramp up defense spending as the continent confronts the security implications of the Trump administrations embrace of Russia: The US has ceased all cyber offensives targeting Moscow, as a Kremlin spokesperson said that Washingtons shift largely aligns with our vision.

SIGNALS

Doubts over whether Europe can secure peace without US on board

Sources: Politico, Unherd

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The pre-planned Sunday meeting between European leaders took on urgency after Fridays White House debacle, but it ultimately delivered plenty of promises but few concrete answers, Politico wrote. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged Kyivs allies to create a coalition of the willing to support Ukraine and bolster Europes collective security, but promised increases in defense spending will take time to have any measurable effect. If the US pulls back now, there is no road to victory for Ukraine, Wolfgang Munchau, director of Eurointelligence, wrote in Unherd, arguing that the European Union and the UK are both structurally and economically incapable of funding a fight against Russia that ends with any measure of success. To signal otherwise, Munchau added, was as dangerous as it was laughable.

Trump-Zelenskyy spat could augur end of the geopolitical West

Source: The Washington Post

US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys disastrous exchange on Friday could prove the hinge point of history for US-European relations, The Washington Posts global affairs columnist Ishaan Tharoor wrote. The argument laid bare the deepening rift between Europe and Trump. Under the Biden administration, the 2022 invasion of Ukraine had been a galvanizing moment for the West, with the US surging support for Kyiv, enabling Ukraine to fight back for longer than Moscow had imagined possible. Now, the Trump administration seems poised to suspend military and other aid to Kyiv, even as Europe scrambles to belatedly bolster its defenses and Russia continues its bombardment of Ukraine.

Some Republicans split on Trumps pivot to Russia

Sources: The New York Times, Axios

As the Trump administration seems poised to further embrace Moscow, some Republicans remain wary of potentially undoing decades of foreign policy hegemony and security measures against Russia. After the US sided with Russia in a United Nations vote on Ukraine, Senate Armed Services Chair Roger Wicker, R-Miss., told Axios that clearly, Putins Russia is the aggressor, while Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, condemned the vote as shameful. Others, however, are supportive of a quick end to the Ukraine war so that the US can better challenge China. That logic is deeply flawed, a Russia expert wrote for Foreign Policy: China and Russia are so close that to convince one to abandon the other, the price would have to be exceedingly high.
By Mrinmay Dey and Angela Christy M

(Reuters) -Britain's privacy watchdog, the Information Commissioner's Office, on Monday launched an investigation into how TikTok, Reddit and online image sharing website Imgur safeguard children's privacy.

Social media companies use complex algorithms to prioritise content and keep users engaged. However, the fact that they amplify similar content can lead to children being influenced by increasing amounts of harmful material.

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The watchdog said it is probing how Chinese company ByteDance's short-form video-sharing platform TikTok uses 1317-year-olds' personal information to suggest content in their feed.

TikTok's recommender systems operate under comprehensive measures that protect privacy and safety of teens, including restrictions on content allowed in their feeds, a TikTok spokesperson told Reuters in an emailed statement.

Social media and discussion platform Reddit, and Imgur, face UK investigation over their handling of children's personal data and age verification practices, the data watchdog said.

"If we find there is sufficient evidence that any of these companies have broken the law, we will put this to them and obtain their representations before reaching a final conclusion," the Information Commissioner's Office said in a statement.

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In 2023, the ICO fined TikTok 12.7 million pounds ($16 million) for breaching data protection law by using the personal data of children aged under 13 without parental consent.

Reddit has been working closely with the ICO and intends to comply with all relevant regulations in the countries in which it operates, a spokesperson from the company told Reuters in an email.

"Most of our users are adults, but we have plans to roll out changes this year that address updates to UK regulations around age assurance," the Reddit spokesperson said.

Imgur did not respond to a Reuters request for comment.

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Britain has passed legislation that set tougher rules for social media platforms, including a mandate for them to prevent children from accessing harmful and age-inappropriate content by enforcing age limits and age-checking measures.

Social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram and TikTok are required to "tame" their algorithms to filter out or downgrade harmful material to help protect children under proposed British measures published last year.

($1 = 0.7933 pounds)

(Reporting by Angela Christy and Mrinmay Dey in Bengaluru; Editing by Lincoln Feast and Gerry Doyle)
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said that no one should doubt the sincerity of US President Donald Trump's desire to achieve peace in Ukraine.

Source: Starmer during a speech in the House of Commons on Monday, as quoted by the BBC, reported by European Pravda

Details: Speaking about his visit to the White House last week, Starmer said he welcomed the positive discussions he had with the US president on European security, including Trump's clear support for Article 5 of the NATO treaty.

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"I welcome the understanding from our dialogue that our two nations will work together on security arrangements for a lasting peace in Ukraine. I also welcome the president's continued commitment to that peace, which nobody in this House should doubt for a second is sincere," Starmer said.

Background:

The UK prime minister also said in parliament that the altercation that took place between Trump and Zelenskyy on Friday was "something nobody in this House wants to see".

Zelenskyy has said he is ready to meet with Trump again if he invites him.

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer believes that a single agreement on US access to rare earth minerals is not enough to provide Ukraine with security guarantees.

Source: Sky News, as reported by European Pravda

Details: During a session in the UK Parliament, Nigel Farage, the leader of the British right-wing populist party Reform UK, stated that Ukraine had agreed to sign a deal with the US on mineral extraction, which he claimed would result in thousands of Americans working in Ukraine.

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Farage then asked Starmer whether this agreement alone would be sufficient to establish security guarantees.

Starmer responded, saying the "mineral deal is not enough on its own".

He also criticised Farages stance on Russia.

"Can I just remind him  Russia is the aggressor, Zelenskyy is a war leader whose country has been invaded, and we should all be supporting him, and not fawning over Putin," Starmer said.

Background:

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer dismissed calls to cancel President Trumps invitation for a state visit to the United Kingdom, following the explosive Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday.

In an interview on the BBC, Starmer was asked about calls from politicians including Scottish National Party (SNP) first minister John Swinney, who said the state visit invitation should be canceled after Trump accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of being insufficiently grateful for U.S. support against Russias invasion.

Im not going to be diverted by the SNP or others trying to ramp up the rhetoric without really appreciating what is the single most important thing at stake here, were talking about peace in Europe, Starmer said in the interview.

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Starmer said his focus was on finding a resolution between the two leaders to try and refocus on the main focus of finding peace.

There are a number of different routes people can go down. One is to ramp up the rhetoric as to how outraged we all are or not, Starmer said, adding that the other route is to roll up my sleeves and call the two countries presidents and find a path forward.

Starmer also convened a summit of European leaders on Sunday in an effort to shore up support for Ukraine after Fridays chaotic meeting.

Because my reaction was we have to bridge this, we have to find a way that we can all work together because in the end weve had three years of bloody conflict now, we need to get to that lasting peace, Starmer told the BBC.

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During Starmers visit to the White House on Thursday, the British prime minister delivered Trump an invitation from King Charles for a state visit.

This is a letter from your majesty, the king. Its an invitation for a second state visit. This is really special. This has never happened before. This is unprecedented, Starmer said, touching Trumps shoulder. This is a very special letter, I think the last state visit was a tremendous success  this is truly historic.

The answer is yes, Trump said in response to Starmer asking if he would take the invite to Windsor Castle. We look forward to being there and honoring the king and honoring really the country.

The invite marks the first state visit of Trumps second term. During his first term, Trump met with Queen Elizabeth II in July 2018 and again during an official state visit in June 2019. The president also went to Buckingham Palace for a NATO summit in December 2019.

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Charles became king in 2022, during the Biden administration, following Elizabeths death.

Trump has met other members of the royal family since Novembers election. He met with Prince William as the president-elect in December in Paris after the two attended the Notre Dame Cathedrals reopening. After that meeting, Trump said Charles is fighting very hard through his cancer diagnosis, in an interview with the New York Post.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The UK has stated that several proposals for a possible ceasefire in Ukraine are currently being discussed.

Source: Reuters, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The statement comes after French President Emmanuel Macron suggested an initial "partial" cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine  specifically in the sky, at sea, and on energy infrastructure.

"There are clearly a number of options on the table. I'm just not getting into a running commentary on the options," said a spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Background:

On Sunday, Starmer hosted a summit of European leaders in London, after which he announced that an agreement had been reached to develop a peace plan for Ukraine and present it to the United States.

While travelling to the summit, Macron raised the idea of a one-month truce, though other leaders have not yet expressed support for his proposal.

Starmer confirmed plans to assemble a "coalition of the willing" with "boots on the ground and planes in the air".

Starmer also announced 1.6bn (US$2bn) in funding for Ukraine to procure 5,000 air defence missiles.

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Ukraine remains committed to working with the U.S. and European partners to secure peace and expects continued American support, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on March 3.

"It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible," Zelensky posted on X.

The statement comes after U.S. President Donald Trump lashed out at Zelensky for telling British media that a peace deal with Russia remains "very, very far away."

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Trump called it "the worst statement that could have been made" and accused Zelensky of not wanting peace "as long as he has America's backing."

Zelensky countered that Ukraine needs real peace and that no one wants it more than Ukrainians, as the war continues to devastate cities and claim lives.

"Peace is needed as soon as possible," he said.

The exchange follows Zelensky's abrupt departure from Washington on Feb. 28 after a heated confrontation with Trump and Vice President JD Vance in the Oval Office.

The meeting was supposed to finalize a U.S.-Ukraine mineral deal but ended in public disagreements, with Zelensky being attacked for allegedly not showing gratitude for America's support.

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Since the meeting, some U.S. officials and Republican lawmakers have escalated their criticism of Zelensky, with some even suggesting he should resign.

Trump is set to discuss on March 3 the possible suspension or cancellation of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, including weapons pledged under President Joe Biden's administration, the New York Times reported, citing an undisclosed source.

Read also: The worst statement  Trump criticizes Zelensky for saying peace deal with Russia is far away

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Friday's contentious White House meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, following peace talks between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, has the world wringing its hands. More ink has been spilled in recent weeks over who has been jilted in multilateral talks than about the actual situation in the trenches on the Ukraine front. Having just returned from there, I think I can safely say that for those fighting the Russian advance, the basic takeaway is simple: none of it matters.

While heads of state jockey and pontificate, the average Ukrainian defender simply doesn't give a damn. The fight will go on regardless of whatever separate peace deals are brokered over their heads. Moreover, the threat of withdrawing Western support only further inclines them toward tools of last resortnuclear and chemical, to be precise. When all other options for defending their freedom and sovereignty have been removed by far-away politicians, Ukrainian citizens will do what they must. This is what national defense looks like. As in the first days of the invasion, the national spirit of resistance is revived.

Members of the 3rd Assault Brigade explained to me (with a gleam in their eye) that they were on a three-day-on, three-day-off rotation in the trenches "for the rest of their lives." They are annihilating Russian forces with tech-savvy, systematic drone operations that extract enormous injury for every meter lost through Soviet-style, mindless meat-wave assaults. They are tired, but their morale is high. They know their business, and they aren't reliant on Western arms to continue their fight. They construct their own first-person view (FPV) drones in scrappy yet modern decentralized facilities, building chips and 3D printing components they need in real time and engaging in a hyper-evolutionary engineering cycle to customize their weapons to fit the immediate needs of the day. They cannibalize captured munitions, including Russian anti-tank mines and next-generation anti-tank weapons, to build bespoke drone payloads to wreak maximal devastation on Russian infantry and armor.

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I watched every inch of a typical frontline sector being covered in 24/7 drone surveillance in all weather and all spectra: thermal drones picked out the heat signature of Russian footprints in the snow, and FPV drones carefully laid small, custom-made landmines in their path. I watched Ukrainian operatorscalmly sipping teadrop munitions on a Russian soldier in sub-zero temperatures before he could crawl back into his frozen trench position. Yes, the material and manpower odds are stacked in favor of the Russian invaders, but the moral and logistical advantages heavily favor Ukraine. They are nowhere near desperate enough to capitulate.

I toured a heavy-lift drone factory, which assembles the frightful "Baba Yaga"the "flying witch" that strikes terror into Russian occupiers. The factory, which specialized in agricultural drone sprayers before the war, now beats plowshares into swords by making aerial sprayers that spill defoliants and accelerants on the heads of Russian troops before immolating them with thermite. It takes no great leap of imagination to envision a scenario in which, as a last resort, this factory replaced the contents of the tanks with something even more ghastly. Global censure and condemnation, hollow in any event, seems to them a small price to pay for stopping the collapse of their homeland.

The Soviet Union's top nuclear engineers were often Ukrainian, and Ukrainian expertise keeps some of the world's largest nuclear facilities functioning. Their mastery of advanced technology, coupled with a broad and innovative culture of sophisticated engineering, makes the prospect of an organic, homegrown Ukrainian nuclear weapon all but guaranteed if required.

Ukrainians do not harbor the same ingrained horror of nuclear operations that Westerners have been raised with. Thirty years ago, after all, Ukraine was the world's third-largest nuclear power until security-guaranteed treaties convinced them to give their arsenal to Russiait takes no special geopolitical expertise to envision Ukraine reappropriating its lost nuclear deterrent if all other avenues are closed.

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Ukraine is unlikely to accept separate peace provisions because they know what much of the rest of the world seems willfully blind to: Russia is on its knees. With casualties approaching three-quarters of a millionwith some 1,400 casualties added dailythe Russian behemoth is staggering and nearing collapse. It has lost over 10,000 main battle tanks, six times the combined number possessed by the UK, Spain, France, Italy, and Poland. Its economy is teetering, its disparate regions restless, and its federation is fractured. A rapid dissolution is not only possible, it grows increasingly likely.

Yes, Ukraine has suffered substantially, and its people are tired, but the country is far from desperate. Most cities operate entirely normally: cafe life is vigorous, and families go about their business as if war was a distant thought. It is common now for soldiers to blast away at Russian advances in the morning, then calmly nosh pizza in a quiet street that afternoon. Internal supply lines are a very powerful advantage. The pressure on Ukrainians to accept an imposed "peace" simply isn't there. Like the early days, when the Ukrainian government opened armories to "allow the Ukrainian people to take whatever they need to defend themselves and their families," the idea of national resistance remains firm.

Politicos and pundits will gather and quibble in faraway places about Ukraine's future, but the conclusions they arrive at will be empty, irrelevant scraps of paper to Ukrainians dead set on continuing to fight for their freedom.

The post Ukraine Will Fight On, With or Without the West appeared first on Reason.com.
Ukraine imported 511.8 million cubic metres of natural gas in February, the highest monthly volume in 1.5 years since September 2023. Compared to January, Ukraines gas imports increased 12 times.

Source: ExPro data

Details: Most of the gas was imported from Slovakia  234.4 million cubic metres, or 45.8% of all imports. In addition, 218 million cubic metres (42.6%) were imported from Hungary and 59.5 million cubic metres (11.6%) from Poland.

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Most of the natural gas was imported to the "customs warehouse" of the Ukrainian UGS facilities  401 cubic metres, of which 188.1 cubic metres were imported via short-haul service. In addition, 110.8 cubic metres were imported directly into the Ukrainian gas transmission system.

ExPro reports that the significant increase in natural gas imports in February was due to several factors, mainly the decline in Ukrainian production after the Russian attacks at the beginning of the month. In addition, cold weather persisted in Ukraine in February, which led to higher demand for natural gas.

It is forecast that imports in March may be lower than in February. In early March, Ukraine is expected to experience gradual warming, which will reduce natural gas consumption. In addition, Ukraine has gradually restored gas production facilities since the Russian attacks.

Background: Ukraine has increased its imports of electricity by almost 30% in February 2025, up to 244,000 MWh compared to January 2025.

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Zelenskyy says he is still ready to sign a minerals deal with the United States after Fridays tense meeting with Trump. Anora is the real star of the 97th Academy Awards. And a look at the measles crisis decades in the making.

Heres what to know today.

U.S.-Ukraine relationship can be salvaged, Zelenskyy says

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy believes he will be able to salvage his relationship with the United States following his contentious meeting in the Oval Office with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

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Zelenskyy said he was still willing to sign a deal granting the U.S. access to Ukraines rare-earth minerals, which was the original purpose of his trip to Washington.

If we agreed that it [the deal] will be signed, from our side we are ready to sign. I honestly think the United States will be ready, as well. Maybe they need time to analyze some things, Zelenskyy told reporters in London, after a meeting with European leaders where he was warmly received. As regards salvaging the relationship, I think our relationship will continue, he added.

During the shouting match at the Oval Office last week, Trump told Zelenskyy he did not have the cards to continue the war, adding that Zelenskyy was gambling with World War III and was a tough guy only because of the United States aid to his country. The Oval Office fiasco came amid escalating tensions after Trump falsely accused Ukraine of having initiated the war with Russia and called Zelenskyy a dictator.

Read the full story here.

More politics news:

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced $2.8 billion in support for Ukraine.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered U.S. Cyber Command to halt offensive cyber operations and information operations against Russia.

Speaker Mike Johnson said on NBCs Meet the Press that Zelenskyy may have to resign after the clash in the Oval Office.

Sen. Chris Murphy has taken steps to put himself at the center of the aggressive resistance to Trump, telling NBC News that hes looking to build a movement all around this country.

Anora wins 5 awards, including best picture at 97th Academy Awards

It was a big night for the sex worker dramedy Anora.

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The indie film won big at the 2025 Oscars last night in Los Angeles, including the top prize of best picture. Director Sean Baker won three awards for the film: best original screenplay, best film editing and best director.

I want to thank the academy for recognizing a truly independent film, Baker said. This film was made on the blood, sweat and tears of incredible indie artists. Long live independent film.

Stars showed off their glamorous looks on the red carpet outside Dolby Theatre as they headed into the show, which began at 7 p.m. ET (an hour earlier than ever before). Culture & Trends Editor Saba Hamedy and National Reporter Daniel Arkin break down what you might have missed:

Red carpet looks: Ariana Grande wowed viewers at home with a custom Schiaparelli gown that appeared to channel her Wicked character, Glinda. Elle Fannings retro gown drew comparisons to Grace Kelly. And Demi Moore stunned in a custom Armani Prive silver dress that would make her The Substance character Elizabeth Sparkle jealous.

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Biggest winners: While Anora walked away with the most statuettes, several other big contenders did not go home empty-handed. Brady Corbets The Brutalist, which had been caught up in an AI controversy in the month leading up to the show, ended up taking home 3 wins, including best lead actor for Adrien Brody, best cinematography and best original score. Emilia Perez, which started awards season as a top contender, won 2 awards, including best supporting actress for Zoe Saldana. Many speculated that controversial tweets from the films lead actress Karla Sofia Gascon, who was also nominated, hurt its overall Oscar chances.

 And a few surprises: The best actress win for Mikey Madison, the 25-year-old star of Anora, was probably the most prominent upset of the night, as many expected Moore to win her first Oscar. Moore had gained momentum during the awards season after winning best comedy actress at the Golden Globe Awards and equivalent honors at the SAG Awards and the Critics Choice Awards. Madison had triumphed at the BAFTAs and the Independent Spirit Awards.

Missed all the Hollywood action? Catch up on last nights Oscar coverage as it happened.

See a complete list of winners.

More on the Oscars:

Morgan Freeman paid his respects to late actor Gene Hackman, praising him as a giant of Hollywood and a dear friend.

Here are the best Oscars looks from Demi Moore, Ariana Grande, Timothee Chalamet and more.

No Other Land, a portrait of a West Bank village under Israeli military occupation, won the Oscar for best documentary feature. In their acceptance speech, two of the directors pleaded for an end to Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Trial begins for accused gunman in Highland Park mass shooting at July Fourth parade

Robert E. Crimo III. (Nam Y. Huh / AP file)

The trial of the man accused of opening fire at a Fourth of July parade in the affluent Chicago suburb of Highland Park more than two years ago, killing seven people and wounding nearly 50, begins today.

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Robert Bobby E. Crimo III faces 69 counts of murder and attempted murder stemming from the July 4, 2022, mass shooting. If convicted, he faces life in prison without parole. Crimo climbed up a fire escape to the rooftop of a building above the parade route and rained bullets onto the spectators below, police said. He disguised himself by wearing womens clothing during the rampage.

Prosecutors have turned over some 10,000 pages of evidence along with a videotaped interrogation during which police say Crimo confessed to the mass shooting. His trial is expected to last three to five weeks.

Read All About It

Staff Pick: A measles crisis decades in the making

Photo Illustration: A measles vaccine, a map of Texas, the measles virus, and RFK Jr. (Justine Goode / NBC News; Getty Images)

The U.S. officially eliminated measles in 2000, and yet the country is in the midst of a measles crisis marked by the first child death in over 20 years. In any other administration, the Health and Human Services secretary would likely encourage people to get the safe, well-studied and effective vaccination  but RFK Jr. is no ordinary leader.

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His lifes work has been dismantling trust in the very vaccines that could have prevented this outbreak, including spreading misinformation, amplifying conspiracy theories and attacking the health system he now runs. Senior reporter Brandy Zadrozny examines how RFK Jr.s past and present work brought America to this moment.  Kayla Hayempour, platforms intern

NBC Select: Online Shopping, Simplified

Are there really sheets that can help you sleep better? The NBC Select team spoke with multiple experts to find out how grounding sheets really work and if they can really help you have a better nights sleep. You can also grab some great Apple deals at Walmarts latest sale, theres everything from AirPods to iPad deals.

Sign up to The Selection newsletter for hands-on product reviews, expert shopping tips and a look at the best deals and sales each week.

Thanks for reading the Morning Rundown. Todays newsletter was curated for you by Elizabeth Both.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Key developments on March 3:

Trump to discuss potential suspension, cancellation of military aid for Ukraine on March 3

Ukraine committed to work with US, Europe to end war 'the soonest possible,' Zelensky says

US wants Zelensky to 'regret' Oval Office clash, sign minerals deal, Waltz says

'A tragedy'  Russia strikes Ukrainian military training ground during exercises, Drapatyi says

Russia trying to break through border in Sumy Oblast, cut off Ukraine's Kursk logistics routes, Border Guard says

Russia plans to launch 500 kamikaze drones per day at Ukraine, HUR says

U.S. President Donald Trump will discuss on March 3 the possible suspension or complete cancellation of military aid to Ukraine, including weapons pledged by the Biden administration, The New York Times (NYT) reported, citing an undisclosed source.

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The news comes after Trump's public spat with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the White House on Feb. 28 that upended plans to sign a natural resources treaty between the two countries.

An unnamed administration official told the NYT that Trump will meet on March 3 with his top national security aides, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, to review and potentially act on a range of policy options for Ukraine.

Among the issues to be considered will be the suspension or cancellation of U.S. military aid to Ukraine, including the latest shipments of ammunition and equipment authorized during the Biden administration, the official said.

Zelensky has repeatedly urged the U.S. to continue shipping arms to Ukraine to strengthen Kyiv's position in future peace negotiations with Russia.

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The Trump administration has not authorized new weapons shipments for Ukraine but has not halted those that were announced under the previous Biden administration.

Reuters reported in early February that opposing factions within the administration had been debating whether the U.S. should continue providing weapons.

The U.S. has provided Ukraine with $65.9 billion in military aid since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on March 2 that a number of European nations, including the U.K. and France, are developing a "coalition of the willing" that will include "planes in the air and boots on the ground" in an effort to negotiate a successful ceasefire in Ukraine.

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Starmer added that for any coalition to succeed, Europe must "have strong U.S. backing."

"(European allies) will go forth to develop a 'coalition of the willing' to defend a deal in Ukraine and to guarantee the peace," Starmer said during a press conference following a European leaders' summit in London. "Not every nation will feel able to contribute, but that can't mean we sit back. Instead, those willing will intensify planning now with real urgency."

"The U.K. is prepared to back this with boots on the ground and planes in the air. Together with others, Europe must do the heavy lifting," Starmer said. "This is not a moment for more talk... If you want to preserve the peace, you have to defend the peace."

Read also: 5 ways you can support Ukraine  even if your government doesnt want to

Ukraine committed to work with US, Europe to end war as soon as possible, Zelensky says

Ukraine remains committed to working with the U.S. and European partners to secure peace and expects continued American support, Zelensky said on March 3.

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"It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war the soonest possible," Zelensky posted on X.

The statement comes after U.S. President Donald Trump lashed out at Zelensky for telling British media that a peace deal with Russia remains "very, very far away."

Trump called it "the worst statement that could have been made" and accused Zelensky of not wanting peace "as long as he has America's backing."

Zelensky countered that Ukraine needs real peace and that no one wants it more than Ukrainians, as the war continues to devastate cities and claim lives.

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"Peace is needed as soon as possible," he said.

Read also: The worst statement  Trump criticizes Zelensky for saying peace deal with Russia is far away

US wants Zelensky to 'regret' Oval Office clash, sign minerals deal, Waltz says

U.S. President Donald Trump's administration wants to hear from Zelensky that he regrets the Oval Office clash, U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz told Fox News on March 3.

"What we need to hear from President Zelensky is that he regrets what happened, that he's ready to sign this minerals deal, and that he's ready to engage in peace talks," Waltz said.

Zelensky's visit to the White House on Feb. 28 was intended to finalize a long-debated agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine on jointly developing Ukraine's mineral resources.

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The press conference instead turned into a public clash, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance berating Zelensky. The Ukrainian president later left the White House without signing the deal.

Following the talks, Trump accused Zelensky of "disrespecting" the U.S. in the Oval Office and said the Ukrainian president "is not ready for peace."

Waltz also claimed the confrontation proved that the Ukrainian president was not serious about peace negotiations.

"But here's the problem: time is not on his (Zelensky's) side. Time is not on the side of indefinitely continuing this conflict. The American people's patience is not unlimited. Their wallets are not unlimited. Our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited," he said.

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Join our community Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight. Support Us

Waltz suggested that Zelensky was jeopardizing Ukraine's long-term economic ties with the U.S. He said, "He could leave the White House with the U.S. and Ukraine bound together economically for a generation."

Following the exchange, some Republican lawmakers have ramped up criticism of Zelensky, with some even suggesting he may need to step aside.

House Speaker Mike Johnson told NBC News on March 2 that Zelensky "needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country."

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Waltz himself took aim at Zelensky in an interview with far-right Breitbart News on March 1, comparing him to "an ex-girlfriend that wants to argue everything that you said."

As U.S. officials continue to lambast the Ukrainian president over the incident, European allies gathered in London on March 2 to reaffirm their support for Zelensky and the embattled country.

Read also: US deliberately orchestrated Zelensky-Trump Oval Office clash, Friedrich Merz says

'A tragedy'  Russia strikes Ukrainian military training ground during exercises, Drapatyi says

Russian forces struck a Ukrainian military training ground in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast on March 1 during a formation exercise, Mykhailo Drapatyi, commander of the Ground Forces of Ukraine, said on March 3.

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A day earlier, reports of a Russian attack with an Iskander-M ballistic missile on a training ground in the village of Cherkaske near the regional center of Dnipro began circulated on social media. The strike was allegedly carried out after an Orlan drone spotted a formation of soldiers about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the front line.

Drapatyi did not disclose the number of Ukrainian soldiers killed and injured. He added that the truth about the attack could be hidden "in the fog of bureaucracy" but promised to prevent this.

"A tragedy at a training ground is a terrible consequence of an enemy strike. The war requires quick decisions, responsibility, and new safety standards; otherwise, we will lose more than we have," Drapatyi said.

Drapatyi added he had launched an investigation into the circumstances of the strike and appointed an independent review with the participation of military counterintelligence.

"Everyone who made decisions that day, and everyone who did not make them on time, will be held accountable. No one will hide behind explanations or formal reports," he said.

Later, on March 3, Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said the head of the unit training center that was hit and the commander of the military unit had been suspended from duty.

"In the middle of the day, on March 1, the enemy attacked one of the military units on the territory of the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine training ground in the Dnipropetrovsk Oblast," he said.

"As a result of the hit of the Iskander-M ballistic missile equipped with cluster munitions, there are dead and wounded," he added.

Also on March 3, Ukraine's State Bureau of Investigation announced it was opening criminal proceedings into the "death and injury of Ukrainian servicemen as a result of a Russian missile strike on a training ground in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast."

This is not the first time Russia has attacked Ukrainian troops while they are lining up in the rear.

On November 3, 2023, in a village near the front line in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Russian forces attacked a group of soldiers. As a result of the Russian missile strike, 19 soldiers of the 128th Brigade and two civilians were killed.

According to an investigation by Ukraine's Defense Ministry, the soldiers were gathered in the courtyard of a house during an awards ceremony while all camouflage rules were ignored.

Read also: Ill need more ammo  Ukraines soldiers react to Trump-Zelensky Oval Office showdown

Russia trying to break through border in Sumy Oblast, cut off Ukraine's Kursk logistics routes, Border Guard says

The Russian army is trying to break through the Russia-Ukraine border in Sumy Oblast and cut Ukrainian forces off from its logistics routes, State Border Guard spokesperson Andrii Demchenko said on March 3 on national television.

Demchenko's statement comes after Russian forces attempted to cross the Russia-Ukraine border in Sumy Oblast near the village of Novenke but were repelled the previous week.

Northeastern Sumy Oblast borders Russia's Kursk Oblast, where Ukrainian forces launched an incursion last summer to draw away Moscow's troops from Donbas and disrupt Russian plans for an offensive from the north.

Demchenko said Russia is attempting to enter Ukrainian territory with assault groups in the direction of the village of Novenke, which lies just across the border, some 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of the regional center, Sumy.

The Ukrainian army is making every effort to prevent Russian units from gaining a foothold on Ukrainian territory, Demchenko said, adding that Russian troops mainly use "large numbers of equipment and personnel" in Kursk Oblast to achieve a breakthrough.

"These are not mass assaults. When the enemy tries to drive the Ukrainian Defense Forces out of Kursk Oblast, firstly, it puts pressure on our units within Kursk Oblast," Demchenko said.

"And then, it (Russia) is trying to expand the area of active combat activities, trying to enter the territory of Ukraine. However, all elements of the Defense Forces are operating in that area to prevent this. All available weapons are being used," he added.

Read also: As long as Russia is advancing, the war will continue military analyst Rob Lee on what awaits Ukraine in 2025

Russia plans to launch 500 kamikaze drones per day at Ukraine, HUR says

Russia plans to launch at least 500 drones per aerial attack against Ukraine, Vadym Skibitsky, the deputy head of Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), said in an interview with RBC Ukraine published on March 3.

Both Ukraine and Russia have heavily invested in drone technology throughout the war, significantly altering modern warfare tactics. Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Russia has launched thousands of cheap but effective drones at Ukraine.

Russia currently uses 150 to 200 drones per attack against Ukraine, which occur on a daily basis, but Russian forces plan to increase their capabilities to 500, Skibitsky told RBC Ukraine. Russia also plans to increase the number of sites from which drones will be launched.

Russian forces have significantly increased domestic production of various types of drones, according to Skibitskyi. Russia uses combat and reconnaissance drones, as well as so-called "decoys," which are drones without a payload, he added.

"All of this simply overloads our air defense system. It is very difficult to distinguish between a drone flying with a warhead and one without," Skibitsky said.

Read also: 10 Ukrainian drone makers to watch

Note from the author:

Ukraine War Latest is put together by the Kyiv Independent news desk team, who keep you informed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you value our work and want to ensure we have the resources to continue, join the Kyiv Independent community.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
(Reuters) - Ukraine's parliament said on Monday that the country's security was ensured by support from the United States and described President Donald Trump's peacekeeping efforts as "decisive" in efforts to end the three-year-old war with Russia.

A statement issued in English three days after a public row in the White House between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Washington's support was "more crucial than ever for the Ukrainian people".

"The Ukrainian people desire peace more than anyone else in the world and believe that the personal role of President Donald Trump and his peacekeeping efforts will be decisive in the swift cessation of hostilities and the achievement of peace for Ukraine, Europe and the entire world," it said.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar)
Ukraine's third president Viktor Yushchenko has called on the United States to be wise in finding formulas for security guarantees for Ukraine, conditions for a just peace and the preservation of Ukraines state independence.

Source: Yushchenko on Facebook

Quote: "For the last 20 years, the United States has been a support for Ukrainians who have been fighting for democracy! Freedom of speech, fair elections, market economy, gender equality and strong civil society  these were all demanded by Ukrainians for a free and dignified life in their own independent country. We nurtured these values together with our partners  and the United States played a leading role in this.

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This dialogue has never been based on humiliation, and it was all the more bitter to see it suddenly manifested during a time of war. When, instead of support and cooperation, we have seen unprecedented devaluation, that is a blow to trust that requires efforts to restore the balance in the relationship."

Details: Yushchenko stressed that Ukraine is in dire need of leadership and unity. "Not discussions about diplomatic protocol or suits, but political wisdom to find formulas for security guarantees, conditions for a just peace and the preservation of the independence of our state," he said.

Quote: "Coercion to peace is a well-known Russian tactic that the Russians used in Georgia in 2008. The consequences are known and instructive. Russian propaganda is destabilising the whole world today. When the Kremlin says there is a dictatorship in Ukraine, it is political schizophrenia.

The response to these challenges must be a strong coalition of international partners who support Ukraine's victory. Together we can render the aggressor's plans impossible and make them pay for everything."

Background:

On 28 February, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance argued about the war in Ukraine at the White House in raised voices in front of the TV cameras. One of the "complaints" voiced was about the clothes Zelenskyy was wearing. The president of Ukraine said he would put on a suit when the war is over.

Prior to that, Trump had said at the meeting with Zelenskyy that he stood for both Ukraine and Russia.

After the spat, Trump said Zelenskyy had "disrespected" the United States and was "not ready for peace".

Zelenskyy then left the White House ahead of schedule.

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KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  A deal to end the war between Ukraine and Russia is still very, very far away, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, adding that he believed Ukraine's long-term partnership with the U.S. was strong enough that American support would continue despite recent fraught relations with U.S. President Donald Trump.

I think our relationship (with the U.S.) will continue, because its more than an occasional relationship, Zelenskyy said late Sunday, referring to Washingtons support for the past three years of war.

I believe that Ukraine has a strong enough partnership with the United States of America to keep aid flowing, he said at a briefing in Ukrainian before leaving London.

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Zelenskyy publicly was upbeat despite the recent heated Oval Office blow up with Trump and Vice President JD Vance during which they accused him of being disrespectful and said he should show more gratitude for America's help. The turn of events is unwelcome for Ukraine, whose understrength army is having a hard time keep bigger Russian forces at bay.

The Ukrainian leader was in London to attend U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmers effort to rally his European counterparts around continuing  and likely much increased  support for Ukraine from the continent amid political uncertainty in the U.S., and Trumps overtures toward Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Asked by a reporter to comment about the outlines of a new European initiative to end Russia's war, Zelenskyy said: We are talking about the first steps today, and therefore, until they are on paper, I would not like to talk about them in great detail."

An agreement to end the war is still very, very far away, and no one has started all these steps yet. The peace that we foresee in the future must be just, honest, and most importantly, sustainable, he added.

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Trump slammed Zelenskyy later Monday for suggesting that the end of Russia's war against Ukraine is still far off.

This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer! Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.

It is what I was saying, this guy doesnt want there to be Peace as long as he has Americas backing and, Europe, in the meeting they had with Zelenskyy, stated flatly that they cannot do the job without the U.S.  Probably not a great statement to have been made in terms of a show of strength against Russia, Trump added in his post. What are they thinking?

The White House wants Zelenskyy to show more openness to potential concessions in order to bring the fighting to an end, but Zelenskyy resisted that idea while pressing for security guarantees from Washington during last Friday's meeting.

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Friedrich Merz, Germanys likely next leader after the recent election, said Monday that he didnt think last Fridays Oval Office blow-up was spontaneous.

He said that he had watched the scene repeatedly. My assessment is that it wasnt a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelenskyy, but apparently an induced escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office, Merz said.

He said that he was somewhat astonished by the mutual tone, but there has been a certain continuity to what we are seeing from Washington at the moment in recent weeks.

I would advocate for us preparing to have to do a great, great deal more for our own security in the coming years and decades, he said.

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Even so, Merz said that he wanted to keep the trans-Atlantic relationship alive.

I would also advocate doing everything to keep the Americans in Europe, he said.

___

Geir Moulson contributed to this report from Berlin.

___

Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
A lack of childcare, dense bureaucracy and uncertain residency prospects are major obstacles for Ukrainian refugees seeking to integrate in Germany, a new study released on Monday found.

The study, conducted by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) and the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), also found that Ukrainian refugees are under greater psychological strain than the rest of the population, likely due to their experiences of war and fleeing their country.

The study is based on a representative survey of Ukrainian refugees conducted between July 2023 and January 2024.

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It found that the lack of childcare provided by the state was a major obstacle for Ukrainian refugees seeking employment in Germany, who are predominantly women. Problems finding a job and getting professional qualifications recognized were also mentioned frequently by respondents.

More than half of those surveyed said they wanted to stay in Germany permanently. This figure varies depending on when people arrived in the country, with 60% of those who arrived between the end of February 2022 and the end of May 2022 saying they want to stay permanently, compared to 69% of those who arrived after May 2022.

Some 90% of those surveyed said an end to the war would be a prerequisite for returning home, while 60% cited an improvement in the economic situation in Ukraine as an important factor in their decision.

Nataliia Lichkonenko, who fled Ukraine to Germany in 2022 and is involved in a project for female refugees, said the shock triggered by the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 has had a lasting impact on her and many of her compatriots, making long-term life planning difficult.

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Ukrainian refugees do not have to apply for asylum in the European Union. They are admitted under the EU's Temporary Protection Directive, which was implemented shortly after the start of the war and has been extended several times. It is currently in place until March 4, 2026.

The employment rate among Ukrainian nationals in Germany has increased, reaching 31.7% in November, 6.6 percentage points higher than it was a year previously.

According to the IAB, 98,000 Ukrainian citizens attended a so-called integration course in January, which is primarily aimed at teaching them German.
Ukrainian troops have detected and destroyed a concealed 152-mm 2S43 Malva self-propelled artillery system, which Russia began producing in 2023.

Source: Ukraines Special Operations Forces (SOF) on Telegram

Quote: "During aerial reconnaissance, fighters from one of the Special Operations Forces units discovered a concealed 152-mm 2S43 Malva self-propelled artillery system, which Russia began producing in 2023."

Details: SOF fighters relayed the coordinates to a fellow unit and adjusted artillery fire, which successfully destroyed the Russian self-propelled artillery piece. The explosion also triggered the detonation of ammunition, damaging a quad bike that the Russians used to service the Malva.

Background:

On 31 December, Defence Intelligence of Ukraine announced that its soldiers had destroyed an air target using a Magura V5 maritime drone for the first time in the world.

On 22 January, Defence Intelligence of Ukraine destroyed Russian satellite equipment in Russias Kursk Oblast.

In January, intelligence officers from Defence Intelligence of Ukraines Active Operations Department discovered and destroyed a Russian 1L122 Garmon radar station and the soldiers who serviced and transported it in Zaporizhzhia Oblast were killed.

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Approximately 640,000 women and girls in Ukraine may be affected by the US government's decision to halt financial contributions to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Source: United Nations

Details: Ukrainian women will lose access to numerous psychosocial and economic support programmes, safe spaces and services aimed at combating gender-based violence, the UN stated. The decision will also weaken protection for refugees and assistance for communities affected by the war.

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Quote: "Essential health services to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, support to women-led organisations, and programmes promoting womens economic empowerment are all at risk of closure  gravely endangering the safety and well-being of millions of people."

Details: UN estimates indicate that cases of sexual, domestic and other forms of gender-based violence in Ukraine have tripled since Russia's full-scale invasion. Around 2.4 million people  most of them women and girls  are in urgent need of services to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.

Since 2022, over 50 mobile psychosocial support teams funded by the US government through UNFPA have played an "indispensable role" in assisting Ukraines most vulnerable populations.

Quote: "Women are fundamental to the resilience of Ukraines families, workforce and larger community, but they have endured immense suffering over years of conflict. Ensuring they are supported throughout their personal recovery will be crucial to safeguarding Ukraines long-term recovery."

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More details: On 26 February, the UN Population Fund was informed that nearly all of its grants  48 grants worth US$377 million  provided by USAID and the US State Department would be discontinued. These funds were critical for maternal healthcare, violence prevention, treatment for rape survivors and other essential aid in over 25 countries, including Afghanistan, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gaza, Haiti, Mali, Sudan, Syria and Ukraine.

The Trump administration has now announced the cancellation of over 90% of USAIDs foreign aid grants. Notably, the US has also ceased funding the restoration of Ukraines energy system following Russian attacks.

Currently, 87 UNFPA mobile teams provide emergency interventions, long-term support, professional training and legal aid for survivors of violence.

Quote: "Almost two thirds of households in Ukraine report dealing with some form of anxiety, depression or extreme stress, thwarting peoples ability to find work or care for family members. Financial hardship, mass job losses, deaths of loved ones and fears of future attacks are only intensifying their distress. Without proper counselling and care, the cycle of trauma can also be passed down to future generations, risking long-term and wider-spread harm to the community."

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(Bloomberg) -- The United Nations World Food Programme is closing its southern African bureau thats been leading a response to the worst drought in the region in four decades as it expects funding from donors such as the US to slump by two fifths.

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The decision, which was communicated to employees around the world in an email on Friday from Global Executive Director Cindy McCain, comes as 26 million people across seven countries in the region run short of food ahead of this years harvest in May. President Donald Trump has been dismantling US foreign aid affecting everything from health care to food supplies  Washington provided nearly half of the $9.7 billion the agency received last year.

We have reached the difficult decision to close WFPs regional bureau for southern Africa in Johannesburg, McCain said in the email seen by Bloomberg. Challenging times demand some difficult choices.

The southern Africa bureau buys and transports hundreds of thousands of tons of grain from South Africa and other countries. It procures more than 60% of its food, goods and services locally, WFP said on its website. The region is regularly hit by droughts because its periodically affected by the El Nino weather phenomenon, as it was last year.

The WFPs regional director and media team didnt respond to an emailed request for comment.

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The WFP has been instrumental in raising funds for countries such as Zimbabwe and Mozambique as they contend with the impact of the worst drought in at least four decades, which slashed corn harvests by as much as 70%.

Some of the responsibilities of the bureau, which manages the response and deals with WFP country offices in a region spanning from South Africa to the Democratic Republic of Congo, will be taken over by the East African bureau in Nairobi, McCain said in the email.

McCain said the agency remains committed to southern Africa, adding that a transition and integration team will be established to implement the changes over the course of the year.

The 160 employees in the Johannesburg office were initially told the bureau might be combined with the one in Nairobi, a person familiar with the situation said. On Feb. 27, Carl Skau, McCains deputy, was in Johannesburg and told staff that a decision had been taken to close the office, surprising everyone including senior management, the person said. McCains email arrived a day later.

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Skau, in his talk with employees, attributed the funding slump to lower contributions from the US and European nations and said the organization would need to get used to annual contributions of about $6 billion this year and for the foreseeable future from donors. The last time WFP contributions were this low was in 2017, according to data on the groups website.

Skau conceded, in response to staffs questions, that the closure of the Johannesburg bureau is a tiny proportion of the cuts that would need to be made to downsize given the slump in funding.

South Africas Department of International Relations & Cooperation has been informed, the person said. The department said it will respond to Bloombergs query later.

Sign up here for the twice-weekly Next Africa newsletter

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--With assistance from Monique Vanek.

(Updates with detail on expected slump in global budget in first and second and third last paragraphs)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

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UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk expressed concern about the growing power of IT entrepreneurs on Monday and pointed to a power shift in the world.

"A handful of unelected tech oligarchs have our data," Turk said told the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

He warned that any form of unregulated power could lead to oppression, subjugation and even tyranny, adding that it was "the playbook of the autocrat," during a speech on the global human rights situation.

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The Austrian UN diplomat did not mention controversial entrepreneurs such as Elon Musk or Mark Zuckerberg by name. Musk was US President Donald Trump's largest donor during Trump's election campaign and the tech billionaire has been given extensive powers by Trump to cut government spending.

But Turk criticized US policy under Trump, saying he was "deeply worried by the fundamental shift in direction" domestically and abroad.

Measures against discrimination are now being portrayed as discriminatory, there are setbacks in gender equality, and journalists and public officials are being intimidated and threatened, Turk said.

Without explicitly naming the United States, Turk criticized the abandonment of international institutions and treaties such as the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement, as well as the massive cuts in development aid.

Trump has signed a decree to withdraw the United States from the UN Human Rights Council, although the US is not a member and the most it could do would be to decide not to participate as an observer and not to apply for membership.
By Emma Farge and Olivia Le Poidevin

GENEVA (Reuters) -The United Nations rights chief expressed deep concern on Monday about a "fundamental shift in direction" by the United States under President Donald Trump, warning that divisive rhetoric is being used to deceive and polarise people.

"We have enjoyed bipartisan support from the U.S. on human rights over many decades ... I am now deeply worried by the fundamental shift in direction that is taking place domestically and internationally," the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, said in a speech which did not mention Trump by name.

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"Policies intended to protect people from discrimination are now labelled as discriminatory...Divisive rhetoric is being used to distort, deceive and polarize. This is generating fear and anxiety among many," he said.

Turk's speech to the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva -- a body which Trump disengaged from in February -- are his strongest remarks so far on the impact of the new U.S. administration's policies.

Since taking office on January 20, Trump has issued a series of executive orders aimed at dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programmes across the federal government and the private sector. USAID programmes were also paused for 90 days, while his administration reviews if they align with its 'America first' policy.

The U.N. human rights office's chronic funding shortages may be exacerbated by U.S. foreign aid cuts. The United States donated $35 million last year which accounted for about 15% of the total voluntary contributions received in 2024.

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"Sweeping cuts to domestic social safety nets, climate finance and foreign aid signal a massive setback for human rights protection, for conflict prevention, and for global stability", Turk said.

In his global review of the state of human rights, Turk warned the core of an international order he said had brought unprecedented stability risked crumbling, as 120 conflicts rage around the world.

He raised concerns about national security laws stifling civic space in Hong Kong, saying he would raise this and other issues like Xinjiang and Tibet with Chinese authorities.

He also expressed alarm about the use of military weapons against Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and called for Israel to stop its annexation threats. Israel, like the United States, has also disengaged from the Council, citing a bias against it.

(Reporting by Olivia Le Poidevin and Emma Farge, Editing by Friederike Heine, Ludwig Burger and Toby Chopra)
the issue

Rising anxiety about a possible invasion of Taiwan by China has knitted Republicans and Democrats together in support of the self-governing island that boasts the worlds most advanced computer chips.

Partly fueled by crossaisle angst toward China, US support for Taiwan has been remarkably solid even as other foreign policy issues  like backing for Ukraine or foreign aid programs  fracture lawmakers along partisan lines.

Bipartisan groups of lawmakers have traveled to Taiwan, met with Taiwanese leaders, and pushed for the accelerated deployment of equipment from foreign military sales to the island.

the bond

A bipartisan resolution introduced recently in the House and Senate reaffirms US support for Taiwan and its membership in international organizations while rejecting the One China Principle by which Beijing claims control over Taiwan.

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The US officially acknowledges Beijings position that Taiwan is part of China but does not agree with the claim.

Not only is Taiwan a thriving democracy of 23 million people but a hub for the global semiconductor industry that powers everything from your cell phone to your washing machine, Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jim Risch, R-Idaho, one of the lead cosponsors, told Semafor in a statement. To protect the American economy and our way of life, we must help Taiwan deter Chinese aggression.

The Senate measure is also backed by the Foreign Relations panels top Democrat Sen. Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire, in addition to Sens. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb., and Chris Coons, D-Del.

On the House side, its sponsors include Foreign Affairs Committee members Reps. Young Kim, R-Calif., and Ami Bera, D-Calif., and China committee leaders John Moolenaar, R-Mich., and Raja Krishnamoorthi, D-Ill.

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The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US expressed appreciation for the resolution, telling Semafor in a statement that it would continue to work closely with the US Congress and the administration to foster closer bilateral cooperation and deepen this critical partnership.

Know More

The robust support for Taiwan contrasts with the now-eroded bipartisan support for Ukraine, which fell apart thanks to Republican fatigue over sending tens of billions of dollars in military assistance and other aid to Kyiv to help it fight Russia.

Bonnie Glaser, managing director of German Marshall Funds Indo-Pacific program, said Taiwan is a fundamentally different issue because of the islands robust investment in the US and high-tech sector, as well as the strong anti-China sentiment in Congress that helps propel its support in Washington.

The kind of divisions that weve seen on Ukraine, I think, are less likely to appear as it pertains to Taiwan, said Glaser.

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Some critics of Ukraine aid have also argued that the US should focus vital military resources not on Ukraine but on preparing to aid Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion, viewing China as a bigger long-term threat to the US.

Perhaps the most senior Republican making that argument: Vice President JD Vance, who played a central role in Fridays remarkable blowup of US-Ukraine talks.

But Ukraine aid supporters have argued that the Russian attacks on its neighbor are interrelated with Taiwans potential independence. They say keeping up support for Ukraine against Russia will serve as a deterrent against any Chinese action against Taiwan.

If we continue to stand strongly with Ukraine, I think unmistakably the message that sends to [Chinese leader] Xi Jinping is that well work with our allies and partners to impose real costs on the PRC if they were to take the step of trying to militarily conquer Taiwan, Coons told Semafor, using an acronym for the Peoples Republic of China. I think that continues to be a bipartisan perspective.

The View From the white house

President Donald Trump declined to comment last week when asked whether it was the policy of his administration not to allow China to take Taiwan by force.

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I never comment on that  because I dont want to ever put myself in that position. And if I said it, I certainly wouldnt say it to you. Id be saying it to other people, maybe people around this table, he said at a Cabinet meeting.

In doing so, Trump distinguished himself from comments made by former President Joe Biden about defending Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack. His White House went so far as to clarify that his remarks did not represent a change in the US policy of deliberate ambiguity about such a potential incursion.

A former Trump administration national security official told Semafor that Trumps comments were an example of him reverting to that strategic ambiguity. That approach fits with his general approach to negotiations, which is that unpredictability is a source of leverage, the former official said.

The View From china

The US needs to abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, act on its commitment of not supporting Taiwan independence, stop abetting Taiwan independence separatist forces, and stop interfering in Chinas internal affairs on the Taiwan question, Liu Pengyu, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Washington, told Semafor when asked for comment on the bipartisan resolution about Taiwan.

Notable
Health officials are asking for the publics help in identifying a man who was found unresponsive and brought to a Los Angeles hospital last week.

The unidentified man arrived at California Hospital Medical Center in downtown L.A. after he was discovered near West 67th Street and Broadway around 8:45 p.m.

The patient has no identification or documents to confirm his identity, according to officials with Dignity Health. The hospital is now reaching out for assistance in identifying him.

Officials from Dignity Health are asking for the publics help to identify a man who has been hospitalized since Feb. 28, 2025. (Dignity Health)

He is described as a Hispanic or possibly Middle Eastern man, approximately 35 to 40 years old, with brown eyes, black hair and a black beard. He is about 5 feet 9 inches tall and weighs around 150 pounds, officials said.

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The man has several tattoos, including the name ANGEL on his right forearm, Rosmary on his right upper inner arm, a dragon on his right upper arm and the number 527 on his left thumb.

Anyone with information that could help identify him is urged to call 213-507-5495 or 213-742-5515.

Due to patient confidentiality laws, the mans current condition was not disclosed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
UNION COUNTY, South Dakota (KCAU)  The Union County Sheriffs Office is seeking the publics help with an investigation.

Authorities said in a Facebook post that the incident occurred in the early morning of March 1 in Alcester, South Dakota.



The Sheriffs Office is asking for any surveillance footage, Ring camera or any information between the hours of 1 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. around the 500 Block of Iowa Street and any of the surrounding area.



Police ask that folks contact the Union County Sheriffs Office at 605-356-2679 with information or questions.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to SiouxlandProud | Sioux City, IA | News, Weather, and Sports.
LOWELLVILLE, Ohio (WKBN)  What had once been another classroom for the Lowellville school campus is now helping students in a different way.

The United Way of Youngstown has implemented its Care Closet program there, and the ribbon was cut on Monday,

Having this here removes all barriers for them, said Christine Sawick, Lowellville Schools Superintendent.

Sawick said the Care Closet is stocked with food items from juice boxes and Pop Tarts to microwaveable mac and cheese for students in need or those who forgot their lunch at home.

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We also have household products like soaps and deodorants and underwear, actually, personal hygiene products for the females, Sawick said.

The Care Closet initiative was created by directors with United Way of Youngstown as a means of helping students and staff alike. The idea first started three years ago with four participating districts. Last year, eight more were added, with Lowellville as the 20th to pick up the program.

Directors approached sponsors Dr. Ray and Sherry Bernat last year, and they were so impressed theyve agreed to sponsor Care Closets in both Lowellville and in Struthers.

Students cant learn if theyre hungry, if theyre not having their basic needs met. So, we just saw this as a way to really help, Sherry said.

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I think the key is one, to do really good work. So, when you bring people to see, they leave feeling like this is making a real impact in the community, and really, thats our goal, said Bob Hannon with United Way of Youngstown.

Administrators said it didnt take long for the idea to catch on.

We had a soft opening in February, and it was 11 school days. So, we had 864 visits in the 11 days, Sawick said.

Sawick said staff will restock the Care Closet each month as needed.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
Following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's tense Oval Office meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance on Feb. 28, 2025, a rumor circulated online that Zelenskyy called Vance a Ukrainian expletive during the meeting.

For example, one Feb. 28 X post (archived) read:

ZELENSKY CALLED JD VANCE A B****! The mic caught it! He literally called JD Vance a B****. WOW

(X user @MyLordBebo)

Examples (archived) of the claim also appeared in other X posts (archived), as well as in multiple (archived) Reddit threads (archived). Snopes readers also searched our site and wrote in to ask for information about the claim.

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In short, the audio of the available recording of the meeting was not clear enough to prove without doubt what Zelenskyy said, other than that it began with an "s" sound. In other words, it's possible the Ukrainian president said "suka"  Ukrainian for "b****"  or a term including the word, but it's also possible that he said something completely different.

Furthermore, even if Zelenksyy did say "suka," that wouldn't necessarily mean he was insulting Vance directly. The term can also be a general expletive in Ukrainian.

We've reached out to Zelenskyy's office for comment and will update this story if we hear back.

The moment in question can be seen around the 42:45 mark in the C-SPAN video embedded below. Just after Vance says, "I've watched and seen the stories, and I know what happens," Zelenskyy can be seen looking down and muttering what some internet users have interpreted as "suka," a word that means "b****" in both Ukrainian and Russian. (The word, spelled  in Cyrillic characters, is sometimes also transliterated into Latin characters as "cyka.")

The word "suka"  like the English word "b****"  means "female dog" in both Ukrainian and Russian, and often has a pejorative sense. The word can also be an all-purpose expletive aimed at a situation rather than an individual.

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Yuri Shevchuk, a senior lecturer in Ukrainian at Columbia University, said over email that he was not convinced that what Zelenskyy said was "suka." Shevchuk said he was unable to tell exactly what Zelenskyy said, but that he believed it was likely "something situationally equivalent to the English, 'Oh, not again!'"

As context for his interpretation, Shevchuk said that in the moments leading up to Zelenskyy's muttered comment, Vance was "clearly repeating almost verbatim Kremlin talking points."

Even if Zelenskyy did say the term, there's reason to think he might have been expressing frustration in general, rather than specifically calling Vance a "b****."

Krystyna Golovakova, a lecturer in the Russian and Ukrainian languages at Cornell University, described "suka" as "a widely used profanity in Ukrainian." Over email, she said: "While it literally means 'female dog,' it is commonly used to express frustration, anger, irritation, or exasperation. Depending on context, it can be directed at someone as an insult, but just as frequently, it serves as a general outburst, like how English speakers might use certain curse words in reaction to a very frustrating situation."

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A 2022 blog post about Ukrainian profanity on the website of the language school Strommen described the term "suka" as "perhaps the most commonly heard and used curse word in online videos."

In both languages, as various internet users pointed out, the word is frequently part of a longer term, "suka blyat" ( , also transliterated as "cyka blyat"). That term  which, as a Dictionary.com entry notes, has come into English usage through online gaming communities  is not a personal insult, but instead an expression of frustration roughly equivalent to the English terms "what the f***" or "f***ing hell."

Ultimately, any claim that Zelenskyy said "suka," "suka blyat" or a completely unrelated term is mere speculation due to the audio quality of the recording of the meeting. As Shevchuk, the Ukrainian language instructor, said, "In the absence of a clearly audible ',' one can hear there whatever one wants to hear."

Sources:

Cambridge Learner's Dictionary English-Russian with CD-ROM. Cambridge University Press, 2011.

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"Cyka Blyat Meaning | Translations by Dictionary.Com." Dictionary.Com, 21 Aug. 2018, https://www.dictionary.com/e/translations/cyka-blyat/.

Ninovskyi, Vasyl. Ukrainian-English and English-Ukrainian Dictionary. Edmonton, Alta. : Ukrainian Bk. Store, 1990. Internet Archive, http://archive.org/details/ukrainianenglish0000nino.

Strommen, Garrett. "Complete Vocab List of Ukrainian Curse Words - What Does Suka, Pizdets, Khuylo & Blyat Mean?" Strmmen Language Classes, 20 Nov. 2022, https://strommeninc.com/complete-vocab-list-ukrainian-curse-words-meaning-suka-pizdets-khuylo-blyat/.

"What They Said: Trump, Zelenskyy and Vance's Heated Argument in the Oval Office." AP News, 28 Feb. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/trump-zelenskyy-vance-transcript-oval-office-80685f5727628c64065da81525f8f0cf.
DANVILLE, Ill. (WCIA)  A traffic stop that took place in 2023 led to a former Urbana man pleading guilty to the aggravated unlawful use of a weapon last week.

27-year-old Warren Montgomery pleaded guilty to the class 2 felony on Feb. 26, 2025, and was sentenced to eight years in prison.

Woman found dead inside burning house in Danville

According to Vermilion County States Attorney Jacqueline Lacy, on July 16, 2023, an officer with the Danville Police Department spotted a Gold Volkswagen Tiguan that was missing rear lights. The officer conducted a traffic stop, and while the officer was able to identify the driver, the passenger refused to identify himself.

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The driver had a valid drivers license and a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card, and said there was a firearm in the vehicle. The driver also said that a magazine was in a glove box.

The driver gave consent for a vehicle search, according to Lacy, and the officer found a magazine and a Taurus G3C 9mm handgun that did not belong to the driver. The Taurus G3C belonged to the passenger, who was eventually identified as Warren Montgomery.

Montgomery had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court, as well as a previous conviction for aggravated unlawful use of weapons.

Second defendant in Lerna murder case sentenced to prison

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This case shows the crucial role police officers play in keeping our community safe. The diligence of this Danville Police officer during a traffic stop helped to remove an illegal firearm from the street and we were able to hold another repeat offender accountable. My office will continue to work with police in our community to protect the good People of Vermilion County and to uphold the law, Lacy said.

Montgomery will serve eight years with the Illinois Department of Corrections and will also serve one year of mandatory supervised release following his prison sentence.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.
China News Service: The 62nd Session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded in Hangzhou on March 1. Weve learned that China actively shared its experience and practice in meteorological disaster prevention and mitigation at the session. Can you share the outcomes of the session? Weve also noted that COP30 President Andre Correa do Lago said in a recent interview that China has been able to give some fantastic answers to the fight against climate change. They are doing their own thing, and their own thing is benefiting the rest of the world, he added. What is your response?

Lin Jian: I noted the report. This is the first time that the Chinese government hosts the IPCC session. With the strong support and effort from China, the session adopted the outlines of the three Working Group contributions to the Seventh Assessment Report, which identified the key direction of the scientific assessment on climate change, and laid an important foundation for pooling the strength of the global science community and jointly improving climate governance.

China is always a partner of Global South countries on the development path of green transition. China proactively responded to the U.N. initiative on meteorological early warning, shared observation data with 132 countries and regions worldwide, and jointly developed early warning system together with Pakistan, Ethiopia and other countries, and shared Chinas experience and solution. We actively shouldered international obligations commensurate with our national conditions and capabilities. China shared the results of green innovation with more than 100 developing countries to lower the cost of emission reduction and boost global green production capacity. Low-carbon demonstration zones, facilities of wind and solar power, and energy-efficient lighting projects are all over Asia, Africa and Latin America. Green energy has become a daily necessity, instead of a luxury. We will stay committed to building a fair and equitable global climate governance system for win-win cooperation, supporting developing countries climate response capacity building and technological advancement, and helping Global South countries jointly realize green and low-carbon revitalization.

Reuters: Global Times reported today that China is formulating countermeasures to fresh U.S. tariffs expected to enter force tomorrow, including curbs on American agricultural products. Is the Foreign Ministry able to confirm this?

Lin Jian: I made clear Chinas solemn position on the relevant question last week. The U.S. once again uses the fentanyl issue as a pretext to threaten China with tariff hikes on its imports. China opposes this move and will do what is necessary to firmly safeguard its legitimate interests.

Associated Press of Pakistan: Last Friday, Pakistan and China signed a cooperation agreement on spaceflight of a Pakistani astronaut on Chinese space station. This is being considered another milestone in space cooperation between the two countries. What is your response please?

Lin Jian: Exploring the universe is humanitys shared aspiration. We are glad to see the signing of a space cooperation agreement between China and Pakistan. We hope the Pakistani astronauts entry into the Chinese space station will be a full success. Since the launch of the manned space engineering program, China has been following the principles of peaceful use, equality, mutual benefit and common development. We focus on sharing with all humanity the results of Chinas development and offer opportunities for cooperation in Chinas space station. We are willing to work with Pakistan to elevate our space cooperation to a new level, and give a stronger boost to the socioeconomic development of the two countries through space technologies. China also stands ready to conduct more international cooperation and exchange with other countries and regions that are committed to the peaceful use of outer space.

Reuters: Last week, U.S. President Trump accused Ukrainian President Zelenskyy of being not ready for a peace deal with Russia. Does Chinas Foreign Ministry have any comment on the meeting?

Lin Jian: We noted relevant reports. China will continue to play a constructive role for the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis and the realization of peace.

Bloomberg: I want to follow up if China would send peacekeepers to Ukraine as some analysts have suggested?

Lin Jian: China did not start the Ukraine crisis, nor is it a party to it. We support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis. China hopes that the relevant parties can find a sustainable and lasting solution that takes into account each others concerns.

Reuters: Is the Foreign Ministry able to confirm that the 40 Chinese nationals repatriated from Thailand last week are Chinese Uyghurs? The United Nations human rights experts said that they were at risk of harm if returned. Are you able to tell us what would happen to them next?

Lin Jian: I made clear Chinas position last week. Let me stress once again that the repatriation is carried out in accordance with the laws of China and Thailand as well as international law and common practices. The lawful rights of people concerned are fully protected. Readouts were also released by competent authorities.

China has all along been committed to protecting the lawful rights and interests of Chinese citizens. Those who were long detained abroad have been repatriated to China and returned to a normal life. Their lawful rights have been fully protected in accordance with the law. This speaks to the consistent position and firm resolve of the Chinese government in respecting and protecting human rights. U.N. human rights experts need to perform their duties fairly and objectively, respect countries sovereignty, respect objective facts, and refrain from interfering in countries judicial sovereignty and normal law enforcement cooperation between countries.

CCTV: U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently blamed China on issues of Taiwan, economy and trade, COVID-19 and Indo-Pacific affairs in an interview by U.S. media outlet. What is Chinas comment?

Lin Jian: Rubios remarks are steeped in the Cold-War mentality and full of lies and false accusations. China strongly deplores and firmly opposes this, and has lodged serious protests with the U.S.

There is but one China in the world, Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and the government of the Peoples Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. This is the real status quo of the Taiwan Strait. The U.S. has distorted the one-China principle, and insisted on using Taiwan to contain China, and the Taiwan authorities have sought independence under the support and connivance of the U.S. These are the most fundamental changes to the status quo of the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwan question is the most crucial, sensitive and explosive issue in the China-U.S. relations. If the U.S. does not hope to trigger confrontation, they must stop crossing or trampling on the red line of the Taiwan question.

Trade and tariff wars have no winners. The U.S.s attempts to politicize and weaponize trade and economic issues, levy tariff hikes on Chinese imports under the pretext of fentanyl, and create blocks to its normal trade, investment and economic cooperation with China will only harm its own economic interests and international credibility. China stands ready to work with the U.S. to address each others concerns through dialogue and consultation on the basis of equality and mutual respect. In the meanwhile, we will take all measures necessary to safeguard our legitimate rights and interests.

The origins-tracing of COVID-19 is a serious science issue. It is extremely unlikely that the pandemic was caused by a lab leakthis is the authoritative conclusion reached by the experts of the WHO-China joint mission following their field trips to the lab in Wuhan and in-depth communication with researchers. It is a conclusion based on science, which is widely recognized by the international community and the science community. More and more clues in the international science community point possible COVID origins to various parts of the world, and a global perspective is needed to carry out origins-tracing work in multiple countries and regions, in particular the U.S. The U.S. needs to immediately stop slinging mud on and scapegoating China.

The Asia-Pacific is a pace-setter in cooperation and development, not a chess board for geopolitical rivalry. History and facts show time and again that treating other countries as a chess piece, pawn or even cannon fodder is the U.S.s go-to tactic. The U.S. should not project its own hegemonic mentality onto China. Attempts to stoke bloc confrontation in the Asia-Pacific run counter to the trend of the times and go against the common aspiration of regional countries. These moves will win no support and be doomed to failure.

Our message to the U.S.: a lie told a thousand times cannot be a fact, the world will not be fooled by such baseless vilification against China, and megaphone diplomacy does no good to China-U.S. relations. We will be committed to viewing and developing our relations with the U.S. on the basis of the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation put forward by President Xi Jinping. Meanwhile, we will firmly defend national sovereignty, security and development interests.

Reuters: The U.S. is nudging Mexico and Canada to match tariffs on China. Does the Foreign Ministry have any comment?

Lin Jian: As we have said more than once, trade and tariff wars have no winners. Snuffing out others candles does not bring light to oneself. WTO rules and principles of market economy should be observed by all. If there are any concerns, they should be solved through dialogue and consultation with equality and mutual respect. Countries need to come together to address unilateralism and trade protectionism.
SEOUL, South Korea  A U.S. aircraft carrier arrived in South Korea on Sunday in a show of force, days after North Korea test-launched cruise missiles to demonstrate its counterattack capabilities.

The arrival of the USS Carl Vinson and its strike group at the South Korean port of Busan was meant to display a solid U.S-South Korean military alliance in the face of persistent North Korean threats, and boost interoperability of the allies combined assets, the South Korean navy said in a statement.

It said it was the first U.S. aircraft carrier to travel to South Korea since June.

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The deployment of the carrier is expected to infuriate North Korea, which views temporary deployments of such powerful U.S. military assets as major security threats. North Korea has responded to some of the past deployments of U.S. aircraft carriers, long-range bombers and nuclear-powered submarines with missile tests.

Since his Jan. 20 inauguration, U.S. President Donald Trump has said he will reach out to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un again to revive diplomacy. North Korea hasnt directly responded to Trumps overture but alleged U.S.-led hostilities against North Korea have intensified since Trumps inauguration.

North Korea said Friday it test-fired strategic cruise missiles earlier last week to inform its adversaries of its militarys counterattack capability and the readiness of its nuclear operations. After watching the launches, the Norths fourth missile testing event this year, Kim said the military must be fully ready to use its nuclear weapons

Experts say Kim wont likely accept Trumps overture anytime soon as he is now focusing on his support of Russias war against Ukraine with provision of weapons and troops. They say Kim could consider resuming diplomacy with Trump when he thinks he cannot maintain his countrys current booming cooperation with Russia

Kim and Trump met three times from 2018-19 during Trumps first term to discuss the future of North Koreas nuclear program. Their high-stakes diplomacy eventually collapsed due to wrangling over U.S.-led economic sanctions on North Korea.
(Bloomberg) -- The US government office responsible for a marquee $52 billion chip subsidy program will lose about two-fifths of its staff as President Donald Trump slashes the federal workforce, according to people familiar with the matter.

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The reduction includes around 20 employees who accepted a voluntary deferred resignation and left the Chips Program Office last week, the people said. There also are about 40 who are considered probationary and will be terminated Monday, according to one of the people. Probationary employees are those who started their jobs, including promotions, in the past one to two years.

The terminations threaten to hamper implementation of the Chips and Science Act, a bipartisan law signed by President Joe Biden in 2022. Designed to boost domestic chipmaking after decades of production shifting to Asia, the program includes $39 billion in manufacturing grants to companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Intel Corp., plus $11 billion for research and development. It has prompted well over $400 billion in promised private investment, including chip factory spending and supply chain projects.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the former chief executive officer of Cantor Fitzgerald LP, hasnt expressed clear intentions for the Chips Act. But in remarks on Monday, he suggested that the legislations approach hasnt generated the kind of payoff that Trump is poised to get with tariffs.

Lutnick spoke during the White House announcement of TSMCs plan to invest an additional $100 billion in US manufacturing. With the Chips Act, the US gave a $6 billion grant to TSMC and received a pledge to invest $65 billion, he said.

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So America gave TSMC 10% of the money to build here, Lutnick said at the event. And now youre seeing the power of Donald Trumps presidency because TSMC, the greatest manufacturer of chips in the world, is coming to America with a $100 billion investment. And, of course, that is backed by the fact that they can come here because they can avoid paying tariffs.

A representative for the Commerce Department, which oversees the office, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment on the staffing cuts.

The previous administration built an office of about 140 people to oversee the Chips Act manufacturing spending, on top of staff responsible for R&D funding. Those officials allocated the vast majority of factory incentives before Biden left office, but only a small portion of that money has actually gone out the door. Under the negotiated contracts, companies receive payments when they reach construction and production milestones.

The staff cuts, while significant, arent as deep as some within the government and chip industry anticipated. In particular, they wont have a major impact on the teams responsible for negotiating with companies and evaluating their progress toward contractual benchmarks, a person familiar with the matter said. The chips office leadership urged against cuts to those departments in recent meetings with Lutnick.

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Earlier: Trump Team Plans Mass Firings at Key Agency for AI and Chips

But its unclear how the office will proceed on a wide range of other matters, including the execution of manufacturing awards focused on smaller supply chain projects. The office has received applications for the $500 million program, but has not yet announced any winners.

Lutnicks questions to current staff have focused on the rationale behind award decisions, the people said, as well as the governments legal authority to claw back money thats been disbursed. Lutnick is especially focused on rules limiting how much Chips Act winners can expand in China, the people said.

The programs staff, meanwhile, have been preparing a list of potential amendments  to both the funding application process and contract terms  that would allow Lutnick to claim a win for the administration without causing major disruptions, according to two people. That could include removing language encouraging union contracts, the people said, or requirements to offer child care at major facilities  something many companies independently planned to do.

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But its possible that Lutnicks changes will prove more consequential than cosmetic. For weeks, hes quietly led conversations with Intel and TSMC  which won the two largest Chips Act awards  about a possible deal that could see the Taiwanese company take over operation of Intels factories. That could involve changes to both companies awards, depending in part on the ownership structure of a potential partnership.

(Updates with commerce secretarys remarks in fifth paragraph.)

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By Richard Cowan and David Morgan

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -With less than two weeks to go before a March 14 deadline, Republicans and Democrats in the U.S. Congress appear to be nowhere close to a deal to avert a government shutdown that would throw Washington into deeper turmoil.

The talks have been complicated by President Donald Trump, who has ignored spending laws passed by Congress, suspended foreign aid and fired tens of thousands of federal workers.

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Both sides say his actions are the biggest sticking point as they seek to reach a deal that would provide government funding beyond March 14, when it is due to expire.

Democrats say they are trying to secure guarantees that would prevent Trump and his budget-slashing point person, billionaire Elon Musk, from firing more workers or cancelling more government programs.

"We will continue to make clear that the law has to be followed," House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters late last week.

Republicans say Democrats are trying to undo Trump's actions, which they call a nonstarter.

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"The bigger issue is the Democrats' insistence on putting poison pills into the bill that would restrict the presidents abilities," Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine told reporters last week.

Collins said she is "very close" to an agreement with Democrats that would fund the government at current levels through September 30, the end of the fiscal year. Trump has said on social media that he supports that approach.

Democratic Senator Patty Murray of Washington said that would give Trump more power to shift funding as he pleases and would create shortfalls for some safety net programs. Both she and Collins have said a flat-line extension would also pose problems for the U.S. military at a time when the United States is confronting challenges from Russia, China and other parts of the world.

The spending deal only covers a portion of the budget, funding agencies like the Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency. It would not address the country's rising borrowing costs or rapidly growing benefit programs like Social Security and Medicare.

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Republicans are separately pushing to extend the tax cuts that Trump signed into law in 2017. One version, which narrowly passed the House last week, would cut taxes by $4.5 trillion and reduce spending by $2 trillion over a decade. Independent analysts say that would further add to the nation's $36 trillion debt load.

House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson said in a Sunday interview on NBC's "Meet the Press" that he was aiming to pass a stopgap funding bill.

"We are working hard to do our responsibility to keep the government open," said Johnson, of Louisiana. "We need our Democrat colleagues to come to the table and be reasonable about that."

Johnson leads a slim 218-215 majority and last year had to repeatedly turn to Democrats to pass legislation through his chamber, where a simple majority suffices. Democratic votes are needed to pass most bills in the Senate, where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority, short of the 60-vote threshold for most legislation.

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Trump's administration has made clear that its budget cutting efforts will continue. Officials last week ordered federal agencies to lay the groundwork for further layoffs, beyond the 100,000 who have already been fired or offered a buyout. The government employed 2.3 million civilian workers last year.

Failure to reach a spending deal by March 14 would force the government to furlough hundreds of thousands of workers and shutter "nonessential" operations, such as financial regulation and trash pickup at national parks.

The last government shutdown was also the longest, ending in January 2019 after 35 days, as Trump during his first term in office and lawmakers clashed over his effort to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border.

With no clear resolution in sight, lawmakers have already begun pointing fingers.

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"Republicans have a responsibility to fund the government," Jeffries said last week, pointing out that Republicans control both chambers of Congress and the White House.

Representative John Rutherford, a Florida Republican, said if Democrats vote against the "clean" extension of spending through September, "they're the ones voting for the shutdown, not us."

(Reporting by Richard Cowan and David Morgan, additional reporting by Katharine Jackson; editing by Andy Sullivan and Chizu Nomiyama)
The American side deliberately orchestrated the confrontation during President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to the White House, Friedrich Merz, the head of Germany's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the likely chancellor, said on March 3.

"It was not a spontaneous reaction to interventions by Zelensky, but obviously a manufactured escalation in this meeting in the Oval Office," Merz said at a press conference in Hamburg.

The visit was expected to mark the signing of a long-debated agreement between Ukraine and the U.S. on jointly developing Ukraine's mineral resources.

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The press conference between Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump turned into a heated exchange, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance berating the Ukrainian leader. Zelensky left the White House without an agreement in hand.

Read also: US sided with Russia, North Korea & Iran  Ukraine reacts to Trumps military aid freeze

Merz said he was "quite surprised, including by the mutual tone of the dialogue," adding that the incident fit a pattern in recent U.S. behavior.

"There is a certain sequence in a number of events in recent weeks and months, including the appearance of the American delegation in Munich at the security conference, and we are now seeing it from Washington," he said.

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At the Munich Security Conference on Feb. 14, Vance stunned European leaders with a speech attacking European values and calling for cooperation with far-right parties.

According to Merz, these events serve as a wake-up call for Europe's security policy. "I am in favor of preparing for the fact that in the coming years and decades we will have to do much, much more for our own security," he said.

Merz, whose CDU party won Germany's recent elections, is expected to become chancellor once coalition talks conclude.

He has been a vocal critic of the outgoing government's Ukraine policy and has condemned Trump's shifting stance on the war.

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On Feb. 21, Merz called Trump's statements about Ukraine "shocking" and aligning with Russian narratives.

Read also: Editorial: A president just disrespected America in the Oval Office. It wasnt Zelensky

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Kash Patel, the newly appointed director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), called on US Congress to investigate how aid money sent to Ukraine has been used, The Epoch Times reported on March 2.

"I've asked Congress to investigate where this money has gone. The American people are owed that answer because its our money. Its our taxpayer dollars," Patel said.

Opinion polls show that Americans significantly overestimate the proportion of the U.S. federal budget that is spent on foreign aid, believing it to be around 25 percent when in fact it was only around 1 percent in 2023, amounting to just 0.25% of GDP.

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He also criticized the scale of U.S. aid to Ukraine.

"The issue is not about the U.S. sending a billion dollars, but rather that the amount sent to one country is one hundred times that billion."

Patel then questioned President Volodymr Zelenskys credibility, and referenced a missile incident in Poland.

Zelensky went on the world stage and said Russia fired a rocket into Poland,' which would be an act of war. It turned out that Russia fired no such rocket, Patel claimed.

Poland has scrambled jets amid Russian attacks on Ukraine several times over the past year, as missiles sent to western Ukraine have violated Polish airspace.

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He concluded with further skeptical statements and additional calls to investigate Ukrainian funds.

"We just cant have full faith and trust in giving a leader $100 billion and then having him say, 'Im not telling you where the money went.' Patel concluded.

Numerous U.S. government organizations have been keeping up with oversight and transparency measures of aid to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion.

Aside from military aid, U.S. funds have been vital in supporting numerous Ukrainian programs and initiatives.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, the U.S. Agency for International Development's (USAID) has provided Ukraine with $2.6 billion in humanitarian aid, $5 billion in development assistance, and more than $30 billion in direct budget support, helping to rebuild schools after Russian attacks, pay for bomb shelters, advanced medical equipment for hospitals and much more.

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USAID's efforts have also included supporting judicial reforms and anti-corruption initiatives, and promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

On Feb. 26 however, the Trump administration announced that it would be terminating over 90% of USAID foreign aid contracts, cutting $60 billion in foreign assistance.

Patel previously served as a federal prosecutor, and he held various intelligence positions in Trumps first administration. He has been considered a Trump loyalist, and his views align with the current administrations escalating criticisms of Zelenskys government, including Trumps recent false claims that the U.S. has sent $350 billion in assistance to Ukraine.

Patel also received $25,000 in 2024 from a film company run by pro-Kremlin filmmaker Igor Lopatonok, the Washington Post (WP) reported on Feb. 7.

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The payment came after Patel participated in a documentary about Trump that aired on TCN, the online network of right-wing commentator Tucker Carlson.

Read also: Russian, Chinese intelligence seek to recruit fired US federal employees, CNN reports

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Pope Francis was up and receiving therapy on Monday after getting off mechanical ventilation and showing no sign of new infection following a respiratory crisis late last week. Heidi Schlumpf, senior correspondent at the National Catholic Reporter, argues that its unlikely for Pope Francis to step down as hes been improving over time.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that Washington is ready to resume engagement as soon as Ukraine is ready for peace.

Source: Rubio in an interview with the American TV channel ABC on the programme This Week

Details: Rubio emphasised that the US "will be ready to reengage when they're ready to make peace, which is clearly what the Presidents [Donald Trump] goal is here".

He noted that Washington is trying to find a way to end the war, but to do so, Russia must be involved in the negotiation process.

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Quote: "No one here is claiming Vladimir Putin is going to get the Nobel Peace Prize this year or that he should be the man of the year of the humanitarian association... we need to figure out is there a way to get them to stop the war. And the only way youre going to do that is to get Russians engaged in negotiations."

Background:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule on Friday after a spat with Donald Trump and JD Vance.

In response, Trump claimed that the Ukrainian president had "disrespected" the United States and that Zelenskyy was "not ready for peace".

US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz said it was unclear whether Zelenskyy truly wants to stop the fighting as he came in not dressed in a way to resolve such matters.

Meanwhile, European and EU leaders have publicly supported Ukraine.

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Elon Musk shared his support for the US leaving NATO and the UN on Saturday night and was joined in the cause by Utah Sen. Mike Lee.

The head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) took to X to write I agree to a post stating Its time to leave NATO and the UN

Musk is joined by several Republican lawmakers, such as Lee, who have questioned U.S. membership of NATO.

Lee, who has criticized NATO for quite some time, has said that the alliance is a great deal for Europe but a raw deal for America. He has suggested that US resources are being used to defend Europe while doing little to protect America.

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Get us out of NATO, Lee wrote on X on Saturday.

Musks statement comes as the Trump administration is making clear that it may turn its back on its traditional allies. That includes Americas future in NATO.

Lee said on X that it was a good time to leave the alliance. Trump has on many occasions pushed European nations to spend more on defense, arguing that the US is carrying too heavy a burden to keep the alliance safe.

US Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) speaks during Supreme Court Justice nominee Judge Amy Coney Barrett's Senate Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing for Supreme Court Justice in the Hart Senate Office Building on October 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. He has suggested that the US should leave NATO (Getty Images)

Musk, the richest person in the world, appears to have significant sway in the Trump administration, joining the president for a cabinet meeting and press conferences in the Oval Office. His support for the U.S. to depart NATO may be an indication that the idea is taking hold in the White House.

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The US leaving the alliance would significantly change the national security of what has been known as the West. European leaders have shared their concerns regarding Trumps commitment to the alliance, specifically about Russia and its invasion of Ukraine.

Even as Lee and Musk call for the U.S. to depart the alliance, Trump has continued to speak to NATO allies, welcoming U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron to the White House in the past week. But he also had a blowup with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office on Friday as Vice President JD Vance accused Zelensky of not showing enough gratitude to the U.S.

Zelensky has long argued that Ukraine should be allowed to join NATO as a security guarantee against Russia.

Just days after his inauguration, Trump said the U.S. was protecting members of the alliance, but they were not protecting us. The president once again pushed for NATO members to spend five percent of their GDP on defense, a level far above the current two percent goal and a level that no member state, including the U.S., currently satisfies.

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Last year, Trump said he would urge Russia to do whatever the hell they want to any NATO member which failed to meet spending targets  completely disregarding the alliances Article 5 that an attack on one is an attack on all. The article has only been used once following the 9/11 attacks on the U.S. in 2001.

The alliance currently has 32 members  30 European nations and the US and Canada.
(Reuters) - The U.S. Treasury Department said on Sunday it would not enforce an anti-money laundering law that obliges millions of business entities to disclose the identities of their real beneficial owners.

The Trump administration has opposed the Biden-era Corporate Transparency Act on the grounds that it is a burden on low-risk entities. The act has faced repeated legal challenges.

In a statement, the Treasury Department said it would not enforce any penalties under the act against U.S. citizens or domestic reporting companies.

"Treasury takes this step in the interest of supporting hard-working American taxpayers and small businesses," it said, adding that it intended to issue a rule to narrow the scope of the act to foreign reporting companies.

The measure's supporters say it was designed to address the growing popularity of the United States as a venue for criminals to launder illicit funds.

(Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Jamie Freed)
U.S. President Donald Trump's administration wants to hear from President Volodymyr Zelensky that he regrets the Oval Office clash, U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz told Fox News on March 3.

"What we need to hear from President Zelensky is that he regrets what happened, that he's ready to sign this minerals deal, and that he's ready to engage in peace talks," Waltz said.

Zelensky's visit to the White House on Feb. 28 was intended to finalize a long-debated agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine on jointly developing Ukraine's mineral resources.

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The press conference instead turned into a public clash, with Trump and Vice President JD Vance berating Zelensky. The Ukrainian president later left the White House without signing the deal.

Following the talks, Trump accused Zelensky of "disrespecting" the U.S. in the Oval Office and said the Ukrainian president "is not ready for peace."

Waltz also claimed the confrontation proved that the Ukrainian president was not serious about peace negotiations.

"But here's the problem: time is not on his (Zelensky's) side. Time is not on the side of indefinitely continuing this conflict. The American people's patience is not unlimited. Their wallets are not unlimited. Our stockpiles and munitions are not unlimited," he said.

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Waltz suggested that Zelensky was jeopardizing Ukraine's long-term economic ties with the U.S. He said, "He could leave the White House with the U.S. and Ukraine bound together economically for a generation."

Following the exchange, some Republican lawmakers have ramped up criticism of Zelensky, with some even suggesting he may need to step aside.

House Speaker Mike Johnson told NBC News on March 2 that Zelensky "needs to come to his senses and come back to the table in gratitude, or someone else needs to lead the country."

Waltz himself took aim at Zelensky in an interview with far-right Breitbart News on March 1, comparing him to "an ex-girlfriend that wants to argue everything that you said."

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As U.S. officials continue to lambast the Ukrainian president over the incident, European allies gathered in London on March 2 to reaffirm their support for Zelensky and the embattled country.

Read also: US deliberately orchestrated Zelensky-Trump Oval Office clash, Friedrich Merz says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  In the wake of recent protests, several organizations came together in Salt Lake City on Sunday evening for a panel discussion on how demonstrators can work toward a common goal.

The panel was made up of representatives from five grassroots organizations: The Food Justice Coalition, Nuanua Collective, Utah March, Mormons with Hope, and Salt Lake Democratic Socialists.

Panelists discussed how their respective groups can collaborate and work together, despite the groups differences.

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Father of 3 endures 10 years of organ transplants

The more of us that can unite, the more of us that can find things that we agree upon that we can fight together on, thats where change happens, Tasia Roth, organizer of Utah March, said.

The event was held at Ken Sanders Rare Books in downtown Salt Lake, and Store Manager Natalie Corey told ABC4.com about one of the duties of bookstores.

Representatives from local activist groups collaborate (KTVX/MJ Jewkes) KTVX/MJ Jewkes

Bookstores in SLC have a duty to the people that they provide knowledge to, and we understand that enough that were here to serve our community, Corey said.

Ken Sanders Rare Books has long strived to provide a space where these groups can come together and organize.

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You see all kinds of people represented here. These people exist in our state, despite their not being represented in the state majority, Corey said. These people have voice, they have words that are deserving to be heard.

Corey went on to say that Sundays panel brought a value that goes beyond just one rally or demonstration. She said it helped people create a space to step outside themselves and have a better understanding about the world.

More information about the groups that were represented at the panel is included below:

The Food Justice Coalition is a group that helps deliver ready-to-eat meals while working to fight food insecurity in Utah. Nuanua Collective focuses on supporting the LGBTQ+ community and indigenous people.

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Utah March says it marches For Human Rights, while Mormons with Hope aims to bring forth the and establish the cause of Zion through the work of activists and organizers who are part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Salt Lake Democratic Socialists focuses on working toward an inclusive and democratic society.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Sometime between now and June  the exact date is yet to be determined  Randy Olson will take down the framed honors hanging on the walls of his fifth floor office, soak in one final look at the panoramic view of the Salt Lake Valley below, and walk away from the John A. Moran Eye Center to join the ranks of the newly retired.

Hell be 78 in April, so no ones suggesting this is premature, but, still, no ones entirely sure the building will remain standing once hes gone.

Few, if any, institutions in the state are as entwined with one person as the Moran Eye Center is with Dr. Randall J Olson. Would it be there without him? Or would it still be a parking lot? And would Utah be home to one of the greatest eye care centers in the world?

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Probably not.

I hope youve got good equity in your house because Im sure as heck not paying for it.

Thats how the chair of surgery at the University of Utah Medical Center responded when Olson asked if he could add a third ophthalmologist to the staff. Only the chair didnt say heck.

Dr. Randall J Olson, one of the founders of the Moran Eye Center, poses for a photo in a lobby at the Moran Eye Center in Salt Lake City on Monday, Jan. 27, 2025. | Brice Tucker, Deseret News

This wasnt ancient history. This was the fall of 1979. A few months earlier, Olson, 32 years old and six years removed from graduating from the U. of U. Medical School, had arrived in Salt Lake to head up the hospitals ophthalmology division. Although head up is being generous, as is division. Olson was the only ophthalmologist.

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It had taken some hard talking for him just to get the job, because the med center was thinking seriously about not replacing Olsons predecessor, who had departed for greener pastures. Eye care at the U. was losing money, a perennial drain on the system. They reluctantly gave Olson an $80,000 loan for startup operational expenses and an office so tiny it had a pocket door just so a desk could fit inside.

Yet here he was, a few months later, threat of losing his house notwithstanding, wanting to triple the faculty when they couldnt even afford more staff.

He talked a former med school intern named Mano Swartz to hire on for below-market pay, and the first thing the two of them did was take a road trip. They loaded into Swartzs car, a Chevy Monte Carlo, turned up the volume on the eight-track, stayed at the cheapest motels they could find and visited ophthalmologists throughout northern Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and parts of Montana.

Their message was a simple one: refer your patients to us, and theyll get excellent care.

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If the gamble hadnt worked, you wouldnt be reading this.

But as it turned out, word of mouth, and the doctors power of persuasion, proved to be a momentum turner. By the end of that first fiscal year, in June of 1980, the $80K loan was paid back and ophthalmology at the U. was in the black.

Solvency meant survival, and that meant Olson could begin to concentrate on his long-range dream: to bring world-class eye care to the Intermountain West, something similar to the facilities hed seen while training at UCLA and LSU.

It would take volumes to detail all thats happened in the decades since to make the dream come true  something Dr. Olson says he plans to tackle when he writes his memoirs  but suffice it to say the history is full of Olson being told no and him proving to be pathologically incapable of hearing it. That and generous people appearing on the scene just when they were most needed.

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Most significant of these donors was John Arthur Moran, a successful investment banker and devoted University of Utah graduate (Class of 1954) who was introduced to Olson by former university president Chase Peterson.

Olson remembers what would prove to be a most auspicious event:

We met in the presidents office. Chase was a consummate fundraiser. We had a dog and pony show for John, after which John said, I like it, I want to be involved. What do you need? I had no idea what to say and Chase just came up with a number. He said, John, we need $3 million. John said, Can you do what you need to do to get this center up and going? and Chase said, yes, we can, and Im thinking, Im not sure if we can or not.

Then John asked if we would like that in installments or one single donation. Chase said, one single donation, John said OK, and just like that we were off and running. We broke ground in 1991.

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The first John A. Moran Eye Center, built for $17 million thanks to other donors who joined Moran, opened in 1993, a gleaming new 85,000 square foot building next to the Huntsman Cancer Institute.

In less than a decade it was too small.

Again, Moran stepped up, this time agreeing to donate $18 million toward a bigger headquarters. The donations from the old building were put back into the new one, while the Sam Skaggs and Ezekiel R. Dumke families contributed an additional $10 million each to top off the fundraising. In 2003 construction began in a parking lot south of Primary Childrens Hospital on the second John A. Moran Eye Center.

Since then, an additional 11 remote clinics have been added, along with an outreach program that provides humanitarian eye care aid throughout the world.

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Today, the Moran is considered among the worlds top eye care institutions. Its researchers and clinicians are perennials on The Ophthalmologist magazines Power List ranking of the 100 most influential people in the industry. A business that had two employees and $180,000 net revenue in its first year now has more than 500 employees and a yearly net revenue of $90 million. It is incalculable how many eye patients have been helped in the past 46 years, just as it is incalculable to compute how much the Moran Eye Center means to the Intermountain West.

All traced back to the vision of one man.

Postscript: As the final day approaches, and the University of Utah wraps up its nationwide search for his successor as CEO, no one is surprised that Olson is using his pending retirement as a vehicle to  what else  raise money.

Brochures with his smiling face on the cover have been mailed to prospective donors near and far, hailing a visionary and highlighting the remarkable story of Randall J Olson and the Moran Eye Center.

Im trying to see that theres a nice buffer for my successor, says the soon to be retired ophthalmologist. Theres so much still we want to do, so much more to accomplish. Then, with a smile in his eye he adds, and you know, we are running out of space.
A nurse administers a measles, mumps and rubella vaccine to a patient in Utah. More states are loosening vaccine mandates, scaling back vaccine promotion efforts and taking other steps that likely will lower vaccination rates. (George Frey/Getty Images)

More states are loosening vaccine mandates, scaling back vaccine promotion efforts, and taking other steps likely to lower vaccination rates  even as a major measles outbreak spreads in Texas.

Meanwhile, public health experts worry that the confirmation of vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services could add fuel to such efforts, leading to the resurgence of long-tamed infectious diseases. Kennedy has made numerous baseless or false claims about vaccines, including linking them to autism and cancer and saying there is poison in the coronavirus vaccine.

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This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which Kennedy now oversees, canceled the upcoming meeting of a scientific panel that was slated to discuss next years flu vaccines. Also this week, an unvaccinated child died of measles in Texas  the countrys first measles death in a decade. The outbreak, which has spilled into neighboring New Mexico, has now grown to more than 130 cases.

Already, vaccination rates are lower than they were before the pandemic. The COVID-19 vaccines saved millions of lives, but many Americans bristled at vaccine mandates, and disinformation and rapidly evolving public health advice undermined many peoples trust in scientific authorities.

Changing attitudes have had an impact: Vaccination rates among children born in 2020 and 2021 declined by between 1.3 and 7.8 percentage points for recommended shots, compared with children born in 2018 and 2019, according to a September report by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The anti-vaccination trend is the antithesis of public health, Dr. Scott Rivkees, a pediatric endocrinologist who served as Floridas surgeon general and health secretary from 2019 to 2021, told Stateline.

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The role of people in departments of health and the role of people in health care and medicine is to promote health and make sure the public is safe, Rivkees told Stateline. Theres such a rich history of legal precedent, such a rich history of public health precedent, saying that society benefits by having individuals vaccinated.

In all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, children must receive certain vaccines to attend school. Every state offers an exemption for children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. Thirty states plus the district allow families to skip the vaccinations for religious reasons, 13 states grant exemptions for religious or personal reasons, and two states  Louisiana and Minnesota  dont require people to specify whether their objection is religious or personal.

Five states  California, Connecticut, Maine, New York and West Virginia  dont allow nonmedical exemptions.

Republican officials in more than a dozen states have introduced legislation to loosen vaccine rules or otherwise reduce their use.

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Legislation in Arizona would make it easier to claim a school exemption, while GOP-sponsored bills in Connecticut, Minnesota, New York and Oregon would limit or prohibit vaccine mandates for adults.

In Idaho, a Senate panel last week debated a bill that would ban mRNA vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, for a decade. Montana and Mississippi lawmakers considered but defeated similar proposals. And in West Virginia  one of the five states that currently does not allow nonmedical exemptions to school vaccine requirements  lawmakers are advancing a bill that would allow religious and philosophical objections.

Public health will always, to some extent, involve politics, because it requires resources, said Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia. Offit serves on the FDA panel that was supposed to discuss next years flu vaccines.

But it doesnt have to be partisan, which is what has happened.

A shift in Louisiana

Earlier this month, Dr. Ralph Abraham, Louisianas first-ever surgeon general, sent a memo to staff at the Louisiana Department of Health saying they should no longer recommend that Louisianans get any and all vaccines. The memo also said the agency will no longer promote mass vaccination. Instead, Abraham said, health workers should encourage residents to discuss the risks and benefits of vaccines with their doctors.

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The memo puts an end to the Louisiana health departments robust history of promoting vaccinations through local public health departments, community health fairs and media campaigns.

Vaccines should be treated with nuance, recognizing differences between seasonal vaccines and childhood immunizations, which are an important part of providing immunity to our children.  Getting vaccinated, like any other health procedure, is an individuals personal choice, the memo states.

The agency did not respond to multiple requests for comment via email and phone call. But in a letter posted to the departments website earlier this month, Abraham wrote that the state had made several missteps during the pandemic, including: promoting inaccurate and inconsistent guidance on masking, poor decisions to close schools, unjustifiable mandates on civil liberties, and false claims regarding natural immunity.

Abraham wrote that vaccinations can be good for some, but can be harmful for others, and that for decades public health has been driven by an ideology that the sacrifice of a few is acceptable and necessary for the greater good.

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We should reject this utilitarian approach and restore medical decision-making to its proper place: between doctors and patients, he wrote.

Louisiana Republican lawmakers have embraced this sentiment, saying that after the COVID-19 pandemic, they want to see less government involvement in vaccinations.

Im pleased that Dr. Abraham has taken this approach, said Republican state Rep. Kathy Edmonston, who last year authored laws prohibiting Louisiana schools from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations and mandating that they provide exemption information to parents. Im not against vaccinations. Hes not against vaccinations. Im for people being able to make up their own mind.

Jill Hines, co-director of Health Freedom Louisiana, a group that opposes vaccine mandates, dismissed the significance of ending mass vaccination campaigns, because everybody should have a primary care physician if they want one, and nobody is really denied access to a vaccine.

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But Kimberly Hood, former assistant secretary of the Louisiana Office of Public Health, noted that the state is largely rural, and many residents dont have easy access to a health care provider.

Failing to promote vaccination may not sound like a huge deal, but it actually invalidates what we in public health have seen and learned for many, many years, which is that you have to make it easy, affordable, accessible, Hood told Stateline.

Its not just stepping away from vaccination; were stepping away from our kind of obligation together, what it means to live together in a society.

Staying the course in Mississippi

But in neighboring Mississippi, which is also Republican-dominated, GOP leaders are staying the course  at least so far. More than two dozen anti-vaccine bills have died in the Mississippi legislature in the past two years, including this years proposed ban on mRNA vaccines.

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The state struggled with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic, and in 2022 Republican Gov. Tate Reeves signed into law a measure banning COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

But for years, Mississippi maintained one of the highest childhood vaccination rates in the nation. The state slipped from first to third between 2023 and 2024, after a federal judge ruled that the state must allow religious exemptions. Its current childhood vaccination rate is 97.5%, well above the 91% national average but lower than the 99.3% rate it had in 2019.

Our law is still in effect, and if you dont have a medical or religious exemption, then you must be fully vaccinated to attend school or go to day care in Mississippi, said Dr. Daniel Edney, Mississippis state health officer. The science is clear and in Mississippi we stand on the science.

Edney said he hasnt faced any political pressure to reverse course. Unlike in Louisiana, where Republican Gov. Jeff Landry tapped Abraham  a former three-term Republican congressman who co-chaired his transition committee  as surgeon general, Edney was selected by the 11-member Mississippi State Board of Health. The governor chooses the members of that panel, but they serve staggered four-year terms.

I have zero pressure from the governor or legislative leadership regarding our approach to vaccines, Edney told Stateline. Were not focused on politics. We dont blow in the wind based on what administration is in power.
A nurse administers a measles, mumps and rubella vaccine to a patient in Utah. More states are loosening vaccine mandates, scaling back vaccine promotion efforts and taking other steps that likely will lower vaccination rates. (George Frey/Getty Images)

More states are loosening vaccine mandates, scaling back vaccine promotion efforts and taking other steps likely to lower vaccination rates  even as a major measles outbreak spreads in Texas.

Meanwhile, public health experts worry that the confirmation of vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services could add fuel to such efforts, leading to the resurgence of long-tamed infectious diseases. Kennedy has made numerous baseless or false claims about vaccines, including linking them to autism and cancer and saying there is poison in the coronavirus vaccine.

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Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which Kennedy now oversees, canceled the upcoming meeting of a scientific panel that was slated to discuss next years flu vaccines. Also last week, an unvaccinated child died of measles in Texas  the countrys first measles death in a decade. The outbreak, which has spilled into neighboring New Mexico, has now grown to more than 130 cases.

Already, vaccination rates are lower than they were before the pandemic. The COVID-19 vaccines saved millions of lives, but many Americans bristled at vaccine mandates, and disinformation and rapidly evolving public health advice undermined many peoples trust in scientific authorities.

Public health will always, to some extent, involve politics, because it requires resources.  But it doesn't have to be partisan.

 Dr. Paul Offit, director, Vaccine Education Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Changing attitudes have had an impact: Vaccination rates among children born in 2020 and 2021 declined by between 1.3 and 7.8 percentage points for recommended shots, compared with children born in 2018 and 2019, according to a September report by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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The anti-vaccination trend is the antithesis of public health, Dr. Scott Rivkees, a pediatric endocrinologist who served as Floridas surgeon general and health secretary from 2019 to 2021, told Stateline.

The role of people in departments of health and the role of people in health care and medicine is to promote health and make sure the public is safe, Rivkees told Stateline. Theres such a rich history of legal precedent, such a rich history of public health precedent, saying that society benefits by having individuals vaccinated.

In all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, children must receive certain vaccines to attend school. Every state offers an exemption for children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. Thirty states plus the district allow families to skip the vaccinations for religious reasons, 13 states grant exemptions for religious or personal reasons, and two states  Louisiana and Minnesota  dont require people to specify whether their objection is religious or personal.

Five states  California, Connecticut, Maine, New York and West Virginia  dont allow nonmedical exemptions.

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Republican officials in more than a dozen states have introduced legislation to loosen vaccine rules or otherwise reduce their use.

Legislation in Arizona would make it easier to claim a school exemption, while GOP-sponsored bills in Connecticut, Minnesota, New York and Oregon would limit or prohibit vaccine mandates for adults.

In Idaho, a Senate panel last week debated a bill that would ban mRNA vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, for a decade. Montana and Mississippi lawmakers considered but defeated similar proposals. And in West Virginia  one of the five states that currently does not allow nonmedical exemptions to school vaccine requirements  lawmakers are advancing a bill that would allow religious and philosophical objections.

Public health will always, to some extent, involve politics, because it requires resources, said Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia. Offit serves on the FDA panel that was supposed to discuss next years flu vaccines.

Advertisement Advertisement

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But it doesnt have to be partisan, which is what has happened.

A shift in Louisiana

In February, Dr. Ralph Abraham, Louisianas first-ever surgeon general, sent a memo to staff at the Louisiana Department of Health saying they should no longer recommend that Louisianans get any and all vaccines. The memo also said the agency will no longer promote mass vaccination. Instead, Abraham said, health workers should encourage residents to discuss the risks and benefits of vaccines with their doctors.

The memo puts an end to the Louisiana health departments robust history of promoting vaccinations through local public health departments, community health fairs and media campaigns.

Vaccines should be treated with nuance, recognizing differences between seasonal vaccines and childhood immunizations, which are an important part of providing immunity to our children.  Getting vaccinated, like any other health procedure, is an individuals personal choice, the memo states.

Advertisement Advertisement

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The agency did not respond to multiple requests for comment via email and phone call. But in a letter posted to the departments website earlier this month, Abraham wrote that the state had made several missteps during the pandemic, including: promoting inaccurate and inconsistent guidance on masking, poor decisions to close schools, unjustifiable mandates on civil liberties, and false claims regarding natural immunity.

Abraham wrote that vaccinations can be good for some, but can be harmful for others, and that for decades public health has been driven by an ideology that the sacrifice of a few is acceptable and necessary for the greater good.

We should reject this utilitarian approach and restore medical decision-making to its proper place: between doctors and patients, he wrote.

Louisiana Republican lawmakers have embraced this sentiment, saying that after the COVID-19 pandemic, they want to see less government involvement in vaccinations.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Im pleased that Dr. Abraham has taken this approach, said Republican state Rep. Kathy Edmonston, who last year authored laws prohibiting Louisiana schools from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations and mandating that they provide exemption information to parents. Im not against vaccinations. Hes not against vaccinations. Im for people being able to make up their own mind.

Jill Hines, co-director of Health Freedom Louisiana, a group that opposes vaccine mandates, dismissed the significance of ending mass vaccination campaigns, because everybody should have a primary care physician if they want one, and nobody is really denied access to a vaccine.

But Kimberly Hood, former assistant secretary of the Louisiana Office of Public Health, noted that the state is largely rural, and many residents dont have easy access to a health care provider.

Failing to promote vaccination may not sound like a huge deal, but it actually invalidates what we in public health have seen and learned for many, many years, which is that you have to make it easy, affordable, accessible, Hood told Stateline.

Advertisement Advertisement

Advertisement Advertisement

Its not just stepping away from vaccination; were stepping away from our kind of obligation together, what it means to live together in a society.

Staying the course in Mississippi

But in neighboring Mississippi, which is also Republican-dominated, GOP leaders are staying the course  at least so far. More than two dozen anti-vaccine bills have died in the Mississippi legislature in the past two years, including this years proposed ban on mRNA vaccines.

The state struggled with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic, and in 2022 Republican Gov. Tate Reeves signed into law a measure banning COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

But for years, Mississippi maintained one of the highest childhood vaccination rates in the nation. The state slipped from first to third between 2023 and 2024, after a federal judge ruled that the state must allow religious exemptions. Its current childhood vaccination rate is 97.5%, well above the 91% national average but lower than the 99.3% rate it had in 2019.

Advertisement Advertisement

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Our law is still in effect, and if you dont have a medical or religious exemption, then you must be fully vaccinated to attend school or go to day care in Mississippi, said Dr. Daniel Edney, Mississippis state health officer. The science is clear and in Mississippi we stand on the science.

Edney said he hasnt faced any political pressure to reverse course. Unlike in Louisiana, where Republican Gov. Jeff Landry tapped Abraham  a former three-term Republican congressman who co-chaired his transition committee  as surgeon general, Edney was selected by the 11-member Mississippi State Board of Health. The governor chooses the members of that panel, but they serve staggered four-year terms.

I have zero pressure from the governor or legislative leadership regarding our approach to vaccines, Edney told Stateline. Were not focused on politics. We dont blow in the wind based on what administration is in power.

Stateline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Stateline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Scott S. Greenberger for questions: info@stateline.org.
Vice President Vance turned to cult favorite Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia to mock his former colleague, Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), on Monday.

Responding to a post from Murphy on X in which the Democrat linked President Trumps handling of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine to an affinity for dictators, Vance posted a meme that is popularly used online to tease people about conspiracy theories and other questionable tales. Vance included no text or comment beyond the still image of a scene from a 2008 episode in which character Charlie rants in front of a detailed pinboard. The FX sitcom has aired since 2005.

Vance, who at 40 years old is the nations third-youngest vice president in history, is no stranger to pithy rebuttals online, having similarly derided foes in the past.

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Murphy was discussing Trump and Vances fiery Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday that erupted into a shouting match in front of television cameras and other media outlets. Afterward, Zelensky was asked to leave the White House without signing an anticipated deal that Trump sought in exchange for continued support and advancing peace talks.

It appears as if America is trying to align itself with dictators  that Donald Trump wants us to have our closest relationships with despots all around the world because that makes it easier for him to transition America into a kleptocratic oligarchy where Elon Musk and Donald Trump rule and steal from the American people, Murphy said in the clip from a Sunday CNN interview.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Vanderbilt University has been ranked in the top eight universities in the country, receiving an A rating, for their efforts to address antisemitism, according to a 2025 report released by the Anti-Defamation League, an advocacy organization that fights antisemitism globally.

The Nashville private university moved up two grade levels in the annual report  one of only ten universities in the country to do so  from last years C rating.

Eytan Davidson, regional director for ADL Southeast, said the organization is proud of the university, and the way they have worked cooperatively and thoughtfully about how to have policies that enhance the campus climate, the college experience, guarantee the rights of everyone  including open expression  and keep everybody safe.

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The grade that they received in this iteration of the report card reflects the hard work, focus and attention that they've given to making their campus the most welcoming environment for all students, Davidson said.

Vanderbilt University freshman Eli Raphael, who works as an advocate for Jewish teens, walks across campus on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn.

The report assessed 135 schools  up from 2024s 85 schools  and graded schools against 30 criterium, separated into categories such as administrative action and policies, campus conduct and climate concerns, as well as Jewish life on campus.

The system ranked eight schools across the nation with an A ranking, 41 with a B ranking, 46 with a C, 27 with a D and 13 with an F.

The eight A-graded schools are:

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University of Alabama Brandeis University Elon University CUNY Brooklyn College CUNY Queens College University of Miami Vanderbilt University Florida International University

'Alarming spike in antisemitism' on college campuses

The survey also graded Ivy League schools, though none achieved an A rating. Dartmouth College received the highest among Ivy Leagues with a B rating, while University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, Cornell and Brown Universities all received a C, with Princeton and Yale Universities receiving a D.

The organization gave 36% of all the schools in the report an A or B in its 2025 Campus Antisemitim Report Card, up from 23.5% in 2024, the first year the report was done.

Over the past couple of years, we have seen an alarming spike in antisemitism and antisemitic incidents on college campuses across the United States, and that prompted us to create the campus report card, said Davidson. As a result of (last years) report card, we have further engaged with universities and campuses to try to help them make their campuses welcoming and safe for all students, and specifically put in measures to combat antisemitism and its rise.

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Vanderbilt University is the only Tennessee school graded in the report, which focuses on schools with significant Jewish student populations, those of particular concern and those viewed as exemplary in combating antisemitism.

Davidson said that the higher ranking was a result of the swift and decisive actions by the university in response to the pro-Palestinian protests that occurred on the campus in March 2024.

The protests included a lengthy sit-in at the University Chancellors office, and saw four students arrested, alongside one reporter.

More: Vanderbilt University claims a commitment to free speech. But does it deliver?

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The report praises Vanderbilts August 2024 update to its student handbook, which banned camping for demonstrations and protests, as well as the schools expansion of its civil discourse programming through the Dialogue Vanderbilt program and its close relationship with the campus Hillel and Chabad.

Davidson noted that, while Vanderbilt was the only Tennessee school to be graded, he believes that the southeast region is doing relatively well compared to the national average, regarding policies protecting students from antisemitism.

Despite this, Davidson said that the rise in unabashed antisemitism across the board, both in schools and the public sphere, has been concerning.

The normalization of antisemitism has been alarming across the board, he said. But it's not just the normalization of antisemitism. It is normalization of all forms of hate that we are seeing that is of great concernnot just to Jewish students, but to everyone. We have seen from history that when you have environments where hate can flourish, it leads to worse things. So, as a society, that is something that we have to be aware of. That is the moment we're living in, and I think the report card is a really useful tool for students and parents to get a sense of safety.

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A recent ADL survey conducted with partners of the organization found 83% of Jewish college students experienced or witnessed antisemitism since the Oct. 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel, and that 66% of Jewish students were not confident in their universitys ability to prevent antisemitic incidents.

The USA TODAY Network - Tennessee's coverage of First Amendment issues is funded through a collaboration between the Freedom Forum and Journalism Funding Partners.

Have a story to tell? Reach Angele Latham by email at alatham@gannett.com, by phone at 931-623-9485, or follow her on Twitter at @angele_latham

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: New report: Vanderbilt University ranked in top eight universities for curbing antisemitism
Vandiver residents say wells are still dry after Alabama Power drilling project struck aquifer

VANDIVER, Ala. (WIAT)  A group of homeowners is suing Alabama Power, claiming that the company is responsible for draining their wells, leaving their homes without water.

This is my first home, I dont know if the investment I made is going to turn out to be a good one long term, said homeowner Marina Well.

She says its been over a month since the aquifer that supplies her well with water was struck by an Alabama Power fiber optic drilling project, causing it to run dry.

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Well, along with her neighbors who also were left with dry wells, have taken Alabama Power to court. Three weeks ago, a judge ordered Alabama Power to work around the clock to repair the problem.

Alabama Forestry Commission wildfire advisory remains in effect throughout weekend

The only solution Alabama Power has, which attorneys for the company said in court may work, is to complete the drilling project. As of Sunday, they have finished drilling, according to a statement Alabama Power made to CBS 42:

Alabama Power deeply values the communities we serve and is committed to their wellbeing. We are currently working on a project to strengthen our infrastructure by installing underground fiber along existing rights of way. This project is a vital component to enhancing reliability and service to our customers. During construction, we learned some residents near Vandiver served by private water wells were experiencing issues with their water source. We have been actively communicating with the eight impacted residents daily and are continuing to provide assistance as needed. Alabama Power is working around the clock to complete the project as quickly as possible. We have completed drilling and conduit installation, and we are now working to seal the space around the conduit. Upon completion, we can fully assess any impacted wells. Alabama Power remains committed to the impacted residents, our customers and communities, and will remain in contact with those affected by this work. Alabama Power

While homeowners like Well and her neighbors wait for that assessment, they remain having to use water bottles and above ground water tanks Alabama Power has provided them with.

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As far as next steps, were not really sure. We havent been given answers, so were kind of just waiting, said Well. Were waiting on the court decisions. Were waiting on power and the drilling company to have a solution, but in the short term we dont want to live like this. We havent been living like this, and long-term, this isnt feasible.

Alabama power is due in court along with the homeowners on Tuesday. According to an Alabama Power spokesperson, the company will give an update on how it plans to address the well water issues.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS 42.
Pope Francis slept well and has continued his treatment as usual, the Holy See press office said on Monday morning.

The 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church is receiving treatment at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for double pneumonia.

The pope experienced serious breathing difficulties on Friday afternoon, for the second time since he was admitted to hospital more than two weeks ago.

He suffered a bronchospasm, a tightening of the airways, which led to a "sudden deterioration in the breathing pattern," according to an official health update.

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It was reported that Francis had to vomit multiple times and was subsequently mechanically ventilated.

The pope's condition has stabilized since then, but it was initially unclear whether the bronchospasm could have further effects on his health.

On Sunday evening, the Vatican announced that the pope no longer needed mechanical ventilation, but was being supplied with supplemental oxygen via a tube, as before.

The public has not seen the Argentinian pontiff since his admission to hospital. Numerous pilgrimages and events are scheduled this year as part of the Jubilee year of the Catholic Church.
A German man drove a vehicle into a crowd of people in the western German city of Mannheim on Monday, killing at least two people and leaving others seriously injured, according to police. The city's police force urged people to avoid central Mannheim, and later said there did not appear to be a political motivation behind the incident.

The incident came as crowds gathered in cities across Germany for parades to mark the Christian Carnival season, and witnesses said the incident occurred near one such event. The ramming came on what Christian Germans mark as Rose Monday, the highlight of their carnival season that takes place on Shrove Monday, before the Lenten period begins on Ash Wednesday.

In statements posted on social media, the police confirmed an ongoing operation after "a car drove into a group of people in Mannheim city center."

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Five people were seriously injured and five others suffered minor injuries, the police said.

Emergency services and police are seen in downtown Mannheim, Germany after a serious incident, March 3, 2025. / Credit: Dieter Leder/picture alliance/Getty

The police said officers "were able to arrest the 40-year-old German suspect from Rhineland-Palatinate," the German state that the city of Mannheim sits right on the eastern border of. They said "at the current stage of the investigation, it is not assumed that there is a political background" to the incident.

An eyewitness at the scene told Reuters they saw several people on the ground, including two whom medics appeared to be attempting to resuscitate.

Local media outlets, citing witnesses, said some had seen a black SUV drive at high speed from an area where a parade was taking place, hitting people and leaving several seriously wounded.

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This breaking news story will be updated.

War in Ukraine takes perilous turn after Zelenskyy, Trump Oval Office argument

Trump approval rating at 51%, new CBS News poll shows

The hidden side of Johnny Carson
Macoley Saunders came to the Binghamton area on Sept. 11, 2020 to do his brother a favor. He had been trying to stay out of the area, he testified during trial in Broome County Court, and was living in Pennsylvania because there was a warrant out for his arrest.

Saunders, now 32, grew up in the Binghamton area and had struggled to make ends meet for most of his life. Before Sept. 11, he had sold marijuana to afford food and clothes for himself and his son.

Saunders' brother asked him to come pick up a backpack and bring it to his sister's car on Wells Avenue in Johnson City that day. Saunders wanted to help his brother who had supported him through difficult times, so he agreed.

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At the same time, members of the Binghamton Police Department Special Investigations Unit received a tip that Saunders was riding as a passenger on a motorcycle in Johnson City.

Binghamton Police Department investigator Christopher Bracco said he spotted a man that fit Saunders' description in Johnson City and began to tail the motorcycle. At some point, he came to a stop and the man took off on foot near St. Charles Street.

What ensued was a chase that ended with Saunders on the ground behind UHS Wilson Hospital while police attempted to take him into custody. A shot, police claimed, rang out from the gun Saunders had carried in the backpack.

This incident was unpacked in a weeklong Broome County Court jury trial charging Saunders with first-degree attempted murder and seven other related charges.

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Saunders was originally charged with attempted murder in 2020 and was sentenced to 15 years in prison in March 2022 after he pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. According to Saunders' attorney Artan Serjanej, Saunders changed his mind after the plea, deciding the sentence felt too harsh, and a motion was filed to challenge it. He was granted a new trial.

Jury deliberations, which began on Friday, concluded Monday at 11:30 a.m., when the jury found Saunders not guilty of second-degree attempted murder, first-degree attempted murder, second-degree attempted criminal possession of a weapon and two counts of second-degree harassment.

He was found guilty of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon  the charge for which he was previously sentenced  second-degree assault, resisting arrest and one count of second-degree harassment.

On Thursday, Saunders took the stand and testified that he never intended to use the weapon, that he only took it out of the bag after realizing it was in there in order to disassemble the firearm, making it inoperable before being caught by police.

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The prosecution argued Saunders attempted to kill a police officer as he was being detained. The defense claimed Saunders had no intention of using the gun, and that the gun may have never gone off in the first place.

More: Endwell Rite Aid pharmacist accused of filling unauthorized prescriptions

Saunders defense: 'I never shot at the police'

On Thursday, Saunders' testimony set the scene for the jury.

According to Saunders, there was a period of time in 2020 when he was regularly selling marijuana to get by. He said it was difficult to find a job at the time, and he needed money to support himself and his son.

In July 2020, Saunders said a friend of his, Omar Terry, was killed. After his death, Saunders claimed he began to see threats on social media from people who were affiliated with Brandon Rose, the man who was eventually charged and sentenced for Terry's murder.

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Saunders said he was scared for his life because of his friendship with Terry and he often carried his sister's girlfriend's gun with him when he sold drugs anywhere in the Binghamton area.

Eventually, police caught up with him and knocked on his sister's door with a warrant for his arrest. After that happened, he testified, he stopped selling marijuana and started "laying low" in Pennsylvania.

On Sept. 11, according to his testimony, Saunders' brother requested that he take a backpack to his sister's car a few blocks over. In court, Saunders said he did not know there was a weapon in the backpack.

When he noticed he was being followed by an unmarked police vehicle, Saunders took off running. While he was running, he said, he realized he was in possession of the handgun and began an attempt to "make it inoperable" by releasing the magazine and "taking the gun apart."

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After hopping a tall fence, he ended up in the back of UHS Wilson Hospital in Johnson City. According to Saunders, Bracco struck him with his vehicle as he attempted to catch him. All four officers who testified, including Bracco, disputed this during the trial.

Saunders said he was tackled by Bracco's K-9 Apache and ended up face down in the grass. He said he was still trying to break the gun apart throughout the altercation, and never heard a gunshot.

Broome County District Attorneys Office Investigator April Demer testified during the trial she found a handgun at the scene, but she was unable to locate the entry point of a discharged bullet.

A bystander inside a building next to the scene filmed as Saunders was restrained, with all officers involved attempting to put him in custody. Binghamton Police Officer Zachary Wilcox testified Wednesday that Saunders attempted to reach for Binghamton Police Officer Daniel Ostanek's weapon during the arrest. Saunders testified that he was giving the officers his arm, surrendering.

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During the arrest, Saunders said he lost consciousness and woke up in handcuffs. During his summation, Serjanej called the officers "a rogue group of people who have a lot of power."

He asked the jury to carefully review the bystander's footage and to consider that Saunders had no intention of harming the officers involved.

"Be that wall that protects innocent human beings," he said.

More: At Binghamton funeral, firefighter JR Gaudet remembered as 'heartbeat of the squad'

The case against Saunders: 'We know he pulled the trigger'

Special prosecutor Ben Bergman refuted Saunders' testimony, claiming he changes his story "from one day to the next."

Bergman said that in a phone call with the mother of his child on Sept. 19, 2020, Saunders told her that he knew the police were after him, stating "my whole intention was to protect myself."

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Bergman pointed to an affidavit signed by Saunders on Feb. 13 which stated he had "a gun for protection."

Saunders intended to shoot and kill police officers on Sept. 11, Bergman argued. He said Saunders was aware that he had a loaded gun in his possession and was not trying to take it apart. Rather, he aimed to use it.

"We know he pulled out the gun and we know he pulled the trigger," he said.

Bergman argued the gun could not have gone off by accident, it had to be racked, and the trigger had to have been pulled.

"If you're firing off a gun at a police officer, you're intending to kill him," he said.

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He pointed to Wilcox's testimony that Saunders attempted to grab Ostanek's weapon during the arrest. He claimed Saunders showed his intentions when he made a "finger gun" motion which was captured in body camera footage by Binghamton Police Department Patrolman Matthew Flynn in UHS Wilson Hospital after Saunders was detained.

Bergman said the lack of a bullet entry point indicates Saunders shot up into the air, attempting to hit an officer.

Saunders' sentencing is scheduled for June 3 in Broome County Court. The second-degree criminal possession of a weapon charge carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. The second-degree assault charge carries a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison.

This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Verdict: Man accused of attempted murder of Binghamton police officer
Arizona has carried out most executions with lethal injection since 1992, but with a litany of changing protocols and problems, which ultimately halted executions in the state for eight years. Photo courtesy Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation and Reentry

The Arizona Department of Corrections, Rehabilitation & Reentry has a long history of troublesome administration of its lethal injection protocol. Since 2010, the state has carried out 16 executions by lethal injection, most with complications. ADCRRs actions during those executions show a history of last-minute changes, violations of the protocol and problematic executions  all against a backdrop of secrecy and no public accountability.

In January 2023, Gov. Katie Hobbs recognized the states recent history of executions raised serious questions about ADCRRs execution protocols and lack of transparency. She issued an executive order establishing an Independent Review Commissioner to review and provide transparency into Arizonas execution process.

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The governor appointed retired federal Magistrate Judge David Duncan to carry out this task. Her order to him was to issue a final report that includes recommendations on improving the transparency, accountability, and safety of the execution process. This was welcome news, and the governor was applauded for her seemingly serious and courageous action.

In less than two years, with three months remaining on his contract, the governor fired Duncan. She questioned the scope of Judge Duncans work even though his draft summary and emails demonstrated that he was on the right track: he identified significant and important issues regarding the execution process. But issues of transparency, accountability, and safety no longer seem important to the governor. Instead, she relies on an internal review of the execution process conducted by ADCRR and intends to allow executions to move forward.

The same secrecy and shadiness that plagued the ADCRR in the past, is still in effect today.

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Ashely Oddo, General Counsel for ADCRR, wrote a letter on Oct. 4, 2024, to the Independent Review Commissioner which outlined the qualifications and background of the four members of the IV/Medical team  the executioners. She noted, ADCRR reviewed the qualifications, education, and work experience of each team member. ADCRR also interviewed each of the team members and completed a background investigation on each.

However, the public does not know the qualifications of the independent contractors who will be responsible for executions in the name of the people of Arizona. Under existing law, the names of these individuals are confidential and  not subject to disclosure. But the background investigation, interview notes, professional licenses and documentation of how the individuals will be compensated, with taxpayer funds, can all be provided with the names redacted.

This is not the only concern. Duncan noted in his draft summary that shipments of state procured lethal drugs were delivered to a private home in Phoenix and lethal drugs were stored in unmarked jars.

There is an old Russian proverb, Trust, but verify. When ADCRR speaks on matters related to executions, the approach should be, Verify, but do not trust. I should know.

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Between 2007 and 2022, when I was a federal public defender, our office was involved in extensive litigation over the execution protocols in Arizona. At issue were the nature and origin of the drugs used, the qualifications of the executioners, the procedures followed and what could be seen and heard during executions.

Along the way, we learned that when ADCRR made an avowal or a representation, it was not always true. When it came to executions, ADCRR thought it was okay to break the law in order to enforce the law. Here are a few examples spanning three generations of ADCRR directors.

During litigation in 2009, Director Dora Schriro made representations regarding the qualifications of execution-team members. Selection of the team members included a review of the contract team members professional qualifications, training, licenses and criminal histories. There were personal interviews of the contractors. Everyone was qualified and competent. In other words, trust us.

But during depositions, we learned that a contract team member did not attend medical school, was once a nurse, had his nursing license suspended, attended emergency medical technician training, and is not a licensed emergency medical technician. He . . . [was] treated by the Veterans Administration for post-traumatic stress disorder. He has been arrested multiple times, including three times in ten days in Arizona for a DUI. So much for trust us.

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We have learned that when ADCRR made an avowal or a representation, it was not always true. When it came to executions, ADCRR thought it was okay to break the law in order to enforce the law.

In 2010 and 2011, Director Charles Ryan repeatedly avowed in state and federal courts that ADCRR had complied with applicable laws when it obtained sodium thiopental from the United Kingdom to be used in executions. An ADCRR deputy director provided documents during a deposition that he ignored counterfeiting and efficacy concerns about imported sodium thiopental. This illegitimately obtained and potentially tainted sodium thiopental was used in the executions of Jeffrey Landrigan in 2010 and Eric King in 2011.

The DEA informed Arizona in 2011 that ADCRR had violated the Controlled Substances Act when it imported sodium thiopental. A federal district court in Washington, D.C. found that the importation was a violation of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act, and permanently enjoined the drug from coming into the country. In 2015, in a brazen disregard of a court order, ADCRR again tried to import sodium thiopental, this time from India. FDA stopped the drug at the Houston airport. No one was ever investigated or prosecuted for violating federal law and court orders.

Not to be outdone, in 2014, Ryan wrote that the development of ADCRRs new, two-drug midazolam and hydromorphone formula was based on testimony and affidavits in federal district court in an Ohio lethal-injection matter. There, one dose would do the trick. However, the Ohio execution was problematic  it took 25 minutes instead of the typical few minutes.

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Following Ohios lead, Ryan planned to use that formula for the 2014 execution of Joe Wood. The director, who is not a medical practitioner, simply increased the dosage, though he failed to explain why. When he used the midazolam and hydromorphone formula to execute Wood in 2014, it was a fiasco. It took one hour and fifty-seven minutes for Wood to die and it took 15 doses of the drug, instead of a single dose. ADCRR has never been held accountable for this.

Representations by ADCRR under Director David Shinn concerning the shelf life of the compounded pentobarbital to be used in executions in 2021, were way off. After agreeing to never use expired drugs in an execution, the state represented that its compounded pentobarbital would expire in 90 days when it sought execution dates for two prisoners. After reviewing the scant documentation provided by the state, prisoners attorneys pointed out that the expiration date of the compounded drugs was 45 days, not 90. ADCRR was forced to admit it made a mistake  but instead of going back to the drawing board, the state shamelessly asked the Arizona Supreme Court to compress the time frame so the executions could go forward on schedule. The court said no.

Professor Corinna Lain, an expert on executions by lethal injection, writes in her forthcoming book, Secrets of the Killing States that in carrying out these death sentences, states surrender government transparency, regulatory compliance, freedom of contract, respect for the rule of law, and the utmost care in the most solemn of duties.

Against this historic backdrop of leadership by former directors, why should we trust Director Ryan Thornell now?

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The man who police say led them on a 40-mile chase on I-75, at times going the wrong way, remains in the Warren County Jail today.

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As reported on News Center 7 at 5:00 p.m., the wrong way chase reignited concerns from state officials, and hits close to home for drivers who travel that stretch of I-75 every day.

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News Center 7 previously reported that 38-year-old Joseph Hitchcock was taken into custody after leading police on a chase from Springboro all the way to Trotwood.

Ohio Department of Transportation video obtained by News Center 7 showed Hitchcocks car turn off route 725 near the Dayton Mall and drive up the off ramp and towards on coming traffic on I-75. Somehow, no one was hurt.

Vanessa Mosely of Fairfield Township said the video of the car is all too familiar, bring back memories of a crash she witnessed on I-75 years ago returning home from vacation.

On 75 down in Kentucky, this exact thing happened.. this has been a few years ago. A driver, and this was in the middle of the day, intentionally, got on the highway, was driving in the wrong direction, and of course, there that did not end well, there were fatalities and and it was just horrific, Mosely said.

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Preliminary numbers released by ODOT reveals that after four straight years with more than 90 wrong way crashes, there were 74 of the dangerous collision in Ohio in 2024.

The 14 fatalities resulting from those crashes were the third most in the last five years.

Mosely said the thought of someone driving towards you on the interstate is something the average driver has no was to prepare for.

Theres nothing you can do. And your reaction time is nonexistent. So its very scary, Mosely said.

ODOT has wrong way signs at all off ramps along its major interstates but despite the warnings the danger is real.

While ODOT says the wrong way crashes make up less than 1% of all crashes in the state, they are 40 times more likely to be deadly.

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WEST HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH)  Veterans Affairs employees and their supporters rallied Monday outside the VA Hospital in West Haven, protesting job cuts the Trump administration has made in the name of government efficiency. Several top Democratic lawmakers also joined the rally.

The layoffs are part of the Trump administrations intensified efforts to shrink the size of the federal workforce through the Department of Government Efficiency, run by President Donald Trumps advisor Elon Musk.

They have fired thousands of probationary employees from the VA and all across the government, said Everett Kelley, the national president of the American Federation of Government Employees. They have fired the schedulers who get veterans appointments.

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A week ago, the VA dismissed more than 1,400 employees. The VA says that will save $83 million per year that it will pour back into health care, benefits and services for veterans. Democrats maintain the government cuts will go somewhere else.

It makes no sense at all, except all of these cuts are to provide those tax breaks for the richest in the world, said U.S. Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-3rd District), alluding to Musk.

One of the concerns is that the Trump administration is going to try to privatize VA services. Opponents of that say it would be bad for veterans for two reasons. For one thing, current VA services treat veterans very well. Number two is that veterans often work at the VA.

Like a third of VA employees, I am an Army veteran, Kelley said. And I say the VA is the finest public health care system, not just for this country, but worldwide.

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Democrats say veterans are already paying the price for the layoffs.

Were seeing clinics close around the country, said U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D- Conn.). Were seeing operating rooms deserted. Were seeing lines at facilities like this one.

These moves will not hurt VA health care, benefits or beneficiaries, said VA Secretary Doug Collins in a statement released by the VA. In fact, Veterans are going to notice a change for the better.

The crowd outside the West Haven VA Hospital has a different view.

We asked our veterans to step up and go to battle for our freedom, and we owe them a debt of gratitude, said former deputy state VA director John Callahan. And this administration is not delivering this to our veterans.

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The VA statement maintains that none of the employees that it let go are mission critical.

The Social Security Administration is preparing to lay off 7,000 people and reduce its regional offices from ten to four. The Defense Department said Friday that its cutting 5,400 probationary workers starting this week and will put a hiring freeze in place.

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CORYELL COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44)  The victim of a fatal crash in Coryell County has been identified.

Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers responded to a report of a fatal crash in the 7800 block of Highway 84. A 2016 RAM 3500 truck, driven by William Joseph Thomas, of Gatesville, was traveling westbound.

A witness to the crash said the truck passed her vehicle and was approximately a quarter mile ahead of her. The witness reported the truck took a hard left and left the highway.

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The Ram left the roadway and collided with a tractor, along with implements in a field. Thomas was not wearing a seatbelt.

Thomas was transported to Coryell Memorial Hospital and was later pronounced dead by Justice of the Peace Caldwell. Next of kin have been notified.

This investigation is still open.

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DENVER (KDVR)  A man who was shot in early February on East Colfax Avenue in Denver has died, the Denver Police Department announced Monday, March 3.

Police originally reported on X the person was shot on Monday, Feb. 3, in the 1100 block of East Colfax Avenue. At the time, they did not disclose the severity of the victims injuries.

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A couple weeks later on Feb. 19, police updated to say they identified a suspect, Timothy Mcglothin, 56, who was being held on investigation of attempted murder.

In a March 3 update on X, police said the victim was pronounced dead and that the shooting was now a homicide. The Denver Office of the Medical Examiner in a press release Monday identified the victim as Leon Jackson, 45, who died at a hospital Wednesday, Feb. 26, from a gunshot wound.

Online jail records show Mcglothin was booked into Denvers Downtown Detention Center Feb. 6. The charges on those records still reflect first-degree attempted murder after deliberation, as well as first-degree assault with a deadly weapon resulting in serious bodily injury.

He is being held without bond in that case and was set to appear in Denver County Court on March 11.

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FOX31 reached out to Denver police with questions about the charges now that the shooting is a homicide, but they referred the questions to the Denver District Attorneys Office since it is an active case in the courts. The DAs office has not yet responded.

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Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with U.S. president Donald Trump on Friday, and was promptly screamed at by Trump and Vice President JD Vance. According to The View host Whoopi Goldberg, it was one of the most embarrassing things Ive ever seen.

Among other things, Zelenskyy was yelled at for apparently not being grateful enough for U.S. support in the war waged against Ukraine by Russia, despite the fact that Zelenskyy has repeatedly thanked the U.S. very publicly. Eventually, Trump told Zelenskyy that Youre gambling with World War III.

That has to be one of the most embarrassing things Ive ever seen, Whoopi said angrily after watching the clip on Monday. This is the leader of a sovereign nation, and you are doing theater with him because youre trying to show that youre the hard guy.

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But I dont think anybody wanted you to be the hard guy! she continued. I dont think you asked anybody how they felt, people who voted for you, you didnt ask them how they feel about what youre doing. You didnt ask them if they want to be operatives of Putins government. You have not asked that, and Im sorry. I do stand with you, Zelenskyy!

Host Alyssa Farah Griffin agreed it was chilling, reminding audiences that 62% of Americans support Ukraine, and Trump and JD Vance are in the minority. The ABC host also called out Lindsey Graham, for giving two opposite opinions on Zelenskyy in the span of two weeks, because of the confrontation.

I will never understand, in my bones  having been on Air Force One with Trump, having been to Mar-a-Lago  is all that worth it to sell out everything you believe in? To sell all of your principles? Griffin added.

Host Ana Navarro also took issue with Trump and his allies criticizing Zelenskyy for not wearing a suit to the Oval Office.

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Hes wearing what hes wearing because he is representing peoples suffering, because he is representing a country of war, because over 100 hospitals have been destroyed, she said. Over 700 schools have been destroyed. Over 100 churches have been destroyed.

Thousands and thousands and thousands of Ukrainian lives have been destroyed, and lost, and for them to be picking on the way he was dressed was one of the worst, most embarrassing, horrifying, mortifying moments Ive ever seen in the Oval Office.

The View airs weekdays at 11 a.m. ET on ABC.

The post The View: Whoopi Calls Trumps Yelling at Zelenskyy One of the Most Embarrassing Things Ive Ever Seen appeared first on TheWrap.
UPDATE, with video: Calling last weeks Trump-Zelensky-Vance Oval Office showdown one of the most embarrassing things Ive ever seen, The View moderator Whoopi Goldberg made no secret of which side shes on.

I do stand with you, Zelensky, because youve been fighting, your country has been fighting, Goldberg said on todays View, adding, I stand with yall, because many countries in our world have a habit of going in and invading other countries. And we all have said, for the past at least 100 years, we dont like that. We dont want to do that. We dont want to be that. And here we are. Who are we?

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Goldberg added that she thought the Oval Office meeting, in which Trump and Vance effectively switched sides from supporting Ukraine to supporting Russia, was chilling.

The Views other cohosts also weighed in, including Ana Navarro, who said, First of all, I think this was all staged, and this was all prepared, because the minute Zelensky gets off a car, Donald Trump makes an issue of how he is dressed. Well, you know who else showed up during a war dressed in uniform during World War Two? Winston Churchilland nobody said anything.

I think that is a red herring, she continued, what hes wearing, because he is representing people suffering, because he is representing a country at war, because over 100 hospitals have been destroyed, over 700 schools have been destroyed, over 100 churches have been destroyed. Thousands and thousands and thousands of Ukrainian lives have been destroyed and lost, and for them to be picking on the way he was dressed was one of the worst, most embarrassing, horrifying, mortifying moments Ive ever seen in the Oval Office.

RELATED Saturday Night Live Skewers Trump-Zelensky Oval Office Showdown With A Cameo From Mike Myers As Elon Musk

Navarro also directed comments to other Republicans. I just have to have a word for Lindsey Graham, who Ive known for decades, and for Marco Rubio, who Ive known for 30 years. I am so embarrassed and ashamed. Marco has spent his entire life and career talking against tyranny, talking against Putin and his influence in Latin America, and to see him sell out his conviction and his principle and go do Donald Trumps bidding.

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Said Sunny Hostin: It was an embarrassment. I will say I agree with you, Ana, it was pre-planned because former ambassador to the UN Susan [Rice] said on MSNBC, there is no question this was a setup, because a vice president generally does not speak in those moments without the approval of the President. So President Trump knew that JD Vance was going to do that. And I think it really took a turn when, when Zelensky, with his bravery and with his courage, said to JD Vance, Have you ever been to Ukraine? He embarrassed the bully, and what happens when you embarrass a bully? They have a tantrumThey wanted to embolden Putin, and they did.

Goldberg then re-entered the conversation, saying, Heres the thing that everybody can do: if you support Ukraine, say it out loud. Say it out loud.

I support Ukraine, said Hostin.

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Vodafone has launched a new satellite mobile venture in an attempt to tackle rural not-spots and take on Elon Musks Starlink.

The British telecoms giant has inked a deal with Texas-based AST SpaceMobile to create a new joint venture that will beam satellite broadband connections directly to smartphones.

The service will allow businesses and consumers to browse the web, send messages and make video calls in areas with no mobile coverage. It is aiming to reach 100pc geographic coverage across Europe.

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The move underscores efforts by Vodafone to use nascent satellite technology to eradicate so-called mobile not-spots in rural areas that have long frustrated consumers.

The mobile giant, which has 340m customers worldwide, is looking to mount a challenge to rival services such as Starlink, which is run by Elon Musks SpaceX, and Jeff Bezoss Project Kuiper.

BT-owned EE and Virgin Media O2 are already trialling Starlinks technology, while T-Mobile is testing services from Mr Musks company in the US.

However, Vodafone argues its technology is superior because it works directly with 4G and 5G smartphones without the need for any additional equipment.

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Margherita Della Valle, the chief executive of Vodafone, said: Vodafones space-based mobile broadband will mean our customers can stay connected, wherever they are.

Our new satellite company will be able to offer this pioneering technology to other European mobile operators through a turnkey service that combines Vodafones leading network and engineering with AST SpaceMobiles antennas in the sky.

The launch of the new venture comes after Vodafone successfully tested the worlds first space video call from a remote area of Wales. The company plans to launch its satellite mobile service for UK customers later this year.

AST SpaceMobile operates a network of low-orbit satellites that beam broadband signals down to Earth. The joint venture will build and run a network of ground stations to link these signals to mobile networks across Europe.

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Vodafone holds a stake of almost 5pc in AST SpaceMobile, valued at roughly $300m (237m).

It comes amid uncertainty over the future of a 1bn government project to tackle rural not-spots, dubbed the Shared Rural Network.

Britains mobile network operators have completed the first stage of the project. However, officials are understood to be planning to water down the second phase  which aims to address the most remote areas  in an attempt to cut costs.

As part of the tie-up, AST SpaceMobile is launching a new research hub in Malaga, while it has also expanded its presence in Spain with the recent opening of 5,600 square meters of manufacturing and office space in Barcelona.

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Abel Avellan, the chairman and chief executive of AST SpaceMobile, said: Together with Vodafone, we are poised to accelerate our commercialisation plans across all of Europe, making true mobile broadband from space a reality.

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Volusia County has launched an online community survey, offering residents the opportunity to help shape the future of its environmental, cultural, historical and Outdoor Recreation (ECHO) program.

The survey will help the public voice their priorities and guide decisions on future investments. The county is partnering with consulting firm TPMA to develop and interpret the survey findings to facilitate a comprehensive, transparent and objective analysis.

We are confident TPMAs experience will help us develop a grassroots-informed strategic plan that maximizes taxpayer value and preserves our good life investments through ECHO, said Community Services Director Dr. Brad Burbaugh.

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The ECHO Programs strategic plan will guide resource investments through 2040, ensuring that sustainability, community impact and long-term value remain at the forefront.

This vision-driven approach will help protect and enhance the spaces that make Volusia County a great place to live, work, and visit. Burbaugh continues, By working with TPMA, we ensure that community voices help shape the future of these assets, keeping Volusia County a special place to live for generations to come.

The survey does not request personal details, so all responses will remain anonymous. Results will be analyzed collectively. The survey is open through March 28 and is available here.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Editors note: This story has been updated to include complete information on the candidates running in the District 1 special election.

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  Voter information pamphlets were sent to more than 376,000 registered voters in San Diego Countys First Supervisorial District ahead of the April 8 special primary election. The Registrars pamphlets, which provide important election details, were mailed to voters last week and offer a comprehensive guide to the upcoming election.

The pamphlets contain essential information on voting options, election deadlines, candidate statements, and a preview of the official ballot. Voters can also find a list of official ballot drop boxes and vote centers in their pamphlet or access this information online at sdvote.com.

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Did the roaring 20s-era castle in National City ever find royalty?

Additionally, voters can also use the View Voter Information Pamphlet (Sample Ballot) tool on the website to easily look up their pamphlet online.

For those who opted to receive electronic notifications, the voter information pamphlet was sent via email, providing the same information along with a direct link to the pamphlet.

Voters interested in receiving future voter information pamphlets electronically can sign up at sdvote.com. By choosing this option, voters will no longer receive paper copies by mail but will be notified via email when the pamphlet becomes available online.

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In addition to the voter pamphlet, registered voters in District 1 will receive their official ballots by mail the week of March 10. The official ballot packet will include an I Voted sticker, detailed voting instructions and other important election information.

The election will determine who will fill the vacant District 1 seat for the remainder of the current term, which runs through January 2029. If no candidate secures a majority vote in the primary, the top two vote-getters will move on to the special general election on July 1. Only voters residing in District 1 are eligible to participate in this election.

The candidates currently running for the seat are: Chula Vista Mayor John McCann, Imperial Beach Mayor Paloma Aguirre, San Diego City Councilmember Vivian Moreno, Chula Vista City Councilmember Carolina Chavez, affordable energy consultant Elizabeth Efird, former Imperial County Supervisor Louis Fuentes, and Lincoln Pickard.

District 1 stretches from the Pacific Ocean to the Otay and San Miguel mountains in the east, and from Barrio Logan in the north to the U.S./Mexico international border to the south. The district includes the cities of Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, National City, and several San Diego communities such as Barrio Logan, East Village, Golden Hill, and more. It also encompasses the unincorporated areas of Bonita, East Otay Mesa, Lincoln Acres, Sunnyside, and La Presa.

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Residents unsure if they live in District 1 can verify their district at sdvote.com.

For additional details about voting in the District 1 special primary election, visit sdvote.com, or contact the Registrars office at (858) 565-5800 or toll-free at (800) 696-0136.

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WALTON, N.Y. (WIVT/WBGH)  The Delaware County Sheriffs Office has announced the arrest of a Walton woman on over 60 counts of animal cruelty to cats living at her residence.

66-year-old Gail Kutler, of Walton was arrested Feb. 24 on five counts of felony aggravated cruelty to animals and 60 counts of animal cruelty for failure to provide proper sustenance. The investigation began on Jan. 6 by sheriffs deputies, asking Kutler to provide substance of multiple cats at her residence.

Kutler was advised to begin to show improvement and get the animals treated, which DCSO says she failed to make any attempts to improve the living conditions and health of the nearly 70 cats living with her.

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The majority of the cats were voluntarily handed over to the Heart of the Catskills Humane Society and the Delhi Veterinary Hospital. Police say multiple cats died from poor conditions and health issues.

Kutler was transferred to the Delaware County Correctional Facility where she was held for centralized arraignment, scheduled to appear at a later date in the Town of Walton Court.

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National security adviser Mike Waltz compared Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to an ex-girlfriend who wants to relitigate issues from nearly a decade prior.

In an interview on Breitbart Radio on Saturday, Waltz was critical of Zelenskys approach to the Oval Office meeting and to his subsequent Fox News interview, saying the Ukrainian president is too focused on fact-checking the past and not focused enough on moving on in the future.

Asked whether Zelensky has improved his standing since the contentious meeting with President Trump, Waltz said, No, look, hes clearly solely focused on believing he needs to fact-check and correct every nuance.

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Its like a, you know, ex-girlfriend that wants to argue everything that you said nine years ago, rather than moving the relationship forward, he added.

Long-simmering tensions between Trump and Zelensky erupted into the open on Friday during a heated Oval Office exchange that is sure to have significant ramifications for the U.S., Russia, Ukraine and all of Europe.

The meeting, which began cordially, devolved when Zelensky pressed Vice President Vance for suggesting that a diplomatic solution be reached with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war.

Zelensky in turn laid out years of Putin violently taking over Ukrainian territory, going back on previous ceasefires and refusing to exchange prisoners.

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What do you mean? Zelensky asked Vance.

Im talking about the kind of diplomacy thats going to end the destruction of your country, Vance responded. I think its disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media. Right now, you guys are going around and forcing conscripts to the front lines because you have manpower problems, you should be thanking the president for trying to bring an end to [this] conflict.

Zelensky suggested that the U.S. would feel the ramifications of the war in the future but did not yet because of geography. Trump shot back, saying, Dont tell us what were going to feel because youre in no position.

During a back-and-forth, Zelensky was repeatedly asked if he had said thank you for the billions of dollars in weapons the U.S. has sent Ukraine since the war started in 2022.

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If you didnt have our military equipment, this war would have been over in two weeks, Trump said. Its going to be a very hard thing to do business like this.

Just say thank you, Vance added. We know youre wrong.

In a subsequent interview with Fox Newss Bret Baier, Zelensky would not apologize for the extraordinary Oval Office spat with Trump, saying, No, I respect the president and I respect the American people and if, I dont know, I think that we have to be very open and very honest and Im not sure that we did something bad.

I think maybe sometimes, somethings we have to discuss out of media, with all respect to democracy and to free media, he continued. This is not good for both sides, anyway, and I was very open, but I cant change our Ukrainian attitude toward Russia.

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Credit: Channel 4 News/ITN

Channel 4 News featured the son of a Hamas official in its award-winning Gaza coverage.

For seven months, Channel 4 News broadcast footage of Abdullah al-Yazouri, who was then 13, without disclosing he was the son of Dr Ayman Alyazouri, the deputy agriculture minister in Gazas Hamas-run government.

At one point, the programme reported that Abdullah was selling chocolate on the streets of Rafah to make a living and help support his family.

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Channel 4 News has won at least six awards for its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war. Both the Royal Television Society (RTS) and the Press Gazette named it news programme of the year in 2024. It won the same honour at the Broadcast Awards this year.

The programme won a Bafta and an International Emmy for war reporting last year, while reporters including Secunder Kermani, the foreign affairs correspondent, earned individual awards for Gaza coverage.

However, on Monday, the RTS, which named it network daily news programme of the year last February, told The Telegraph the award was now under review.

Abdullah is the teenager who narrated the BBCs now-discredited documentary Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone. Last week, the BBC pulled the film from iPlayer and apologised for serious flaws in its production.

Credit: Channel 4 News/ITN

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The corporation failed to identify the boy as the son of a Hamas official and, despite repeatedly asking the production company, did not know his mother had been paid for his participation.

Channel 4 News told The Telegraph its journalists learned Abdullahs true identity last summer  but only added an online clarification when David Collier, the investigative journalist, made it public recently.

Between November 2023 and April 2024, Channel 4 News repeatedly featured Abdullah, presenting him as an ordinary citizen under a different name while misidentifying his uncle as his father.

Collier said that while the BBC had rightly withdrawn its film pending an investigation, Channel 4 Newss coverage of Abdullah remained online, showing him delivering what appears to be scripted material across multiple broadcasts from November 2023 to April 2024.

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It wouldnt be an exaggeration to say these broadcasts show Abdullahs confidence and acting ability visibly improving over time, he added.

ITN, which produces Channel 4 News, is now under pressure to retract its coverage featuring Abdullah.

On Monday, ITN defended its reporting, stating no payments were made to Alyazouri or his family and that it would be categorically false to suggest Channel 4 News scripted voices in its coverage.

ITN told The Telegraph that Abdullah did not feature in Channel 4 Newss Emmy, RTS, or Bafta-winning coverage.

Awards bodies should be troubled

Collier told The Telegraph that Channel 4 Newss misrepresentation of Abdullah, and the delay in publishing a clarification, raised broader concerns that should trouble awards bodies.

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He said: Channel 4 News has admitted its staff knew Abdullahs true identity but withheld it from the public for over half a year until my revelation. This raises profound questions about its journalistic integrity.

He added: All awarding bodies must urgently rescind any honours granted for its Gaza reporting pending a full, independent investigation.

Kermani first introduced viewers of Channel 4 News to Abdullah in November 2023, portraying him as an ordinary Palestinian boy named Abdullah Abu Shamala, showing him touring ruins in Khan Younis after an Israeli air strike.

Credit: Channel 4 News/ITN

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The man shown on screen as his father was his uncle Khalil Abu Shammala, former director of Al Dameer, an NGO that campaigns for Palestinian fighters jailed by Israel.

Collier said that the sequence appears designed to show Israel targeting a city with no Hamas presence. Yet moments later, viewers meet a family now known to be led by a minister from Gazas Hamas-led government.

This crucial fact is withheld, leaving the false impression we are meeting yet another ordinary Palestinian household.

One month later, on Dec 11 2023, Abdullah appeared on Channel 4 News again. This time, the audience was told he fled with his family to a northern Gaza city described as the latest focus of Israels offensive.

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Speaking to the camera, he said he wakes up every day searching for food and water and is living hell on earth.

Selling sweets to get by

By April 2024, Mr Kermani reported that Abdullah and his family had fled again to Rafah, where the 13 year-old was selling sweets from a street stall to get by. His fathers role as a Hamas minister was not disclosed.

Kermani said in a voiceover: We began following 13 year-old Abdullah shortly after Israels war on Gaza began. Forced to flee again and again, hes now in Rafah, selling sweets to try and help support his family.

Abdullah, standing behind a sparse table with a few wrapped chocolate bars, tells the camera: I never thought I would sell chocolate to make a living. I used to study in a professional school.

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Now theres no school. Theres nothing, just selling stuff for living to make it out of this hell we are in.

Abdullah al-Yazouri is the son of an agriculture minister in the Hamas-run governmet of Gaza - YouTube/C4

The reporter said Abdullah, who hoped to become a computer programmer, faced an uncertain future and blamed Israel alone for his fate.

The 13 year-old said: From a student to a seller. Why? Why? I didnt choose this fate. Nobody chose this fate. Israel chose this fate for me.

A spokesman for Channel 4 News told The Telegraph the programme took the matter very seriously and had thoroughly reviewed how Abdullah al-Yazouri came to appear in three short news segments.

He added: As international media access is restricted, Abdullah was sourced through an established journalist who has also worked for other major global media outlets.

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The spokesman said that, in November 2023, the identity of the man named as Abdullahs uncle was miscommunicated to Channel 4 News as his father by a local fixer on the ground.

He added: Channel 4 Newss experienced foreign reporting team became aware his father held a technocratic role within the Hamas government in summer 2024 and they took a decision not to feature him again.

Once Channel 4 Newss senior leadership team recently became aware, action was taken to provide additional context to the archived online copy of the reports in which Abdullah features.

Where context could not be added, namely to social media, the content was removed in line with standard editorial procedures. This action was taken on Feb 20.

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The spokesman said Channel 4 News was sure that due impartiality considerations and highest editorial standards had been upheld, as the boys appearances represented a handful of minutes across hundreds of hours of Channel 4 News output covering the Israel-Hamas war and appeared alongside other voices, including Israeli voices.

He added: Abdullah al-Yazouri did not feature in Channel 4 Newss International Emmy, RTS or Bafta-winning coverage.

Channel 4 News was named News Provider of the Year at the British Journalism Awards, partly for its Gaza reporting.

Dominic Ponsford, the Press Gazette editor-in-chief and awards chairman, told The Telegraph that interviews with Abdullah al-Yazouri did not feature in Channel 4 Newss submission to the judges and that, based on current evidence, there were no plans to revoke the award.

A Bafta spokesman said its award for Channel 4 Newss Gaza coverage was also not under review, as it was given for the Oct 10 2023 broadcast, which did not feature Abdullah.

The Emmys and the Broadcast Awards were contacted for comment.

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BEIJING (AP)  Chinas annual major political event gets underway this week, bringing together the nations top leaders and thousands of provincial leaders to endorse decisions already made by the all-powerful Chinese Communist Party.

The meetings and gathering during the National People's Congress, expected to last for about a week, are still important. The rubber-stamp parliament retains an important function: to signal the priorities of the government for the coming year and to disseminate instructions to party members and officials across the country.

The messaging from leadership appears unchanged from previous years  stay the course on fostering innovation while also spurring domestic consumption.

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The question will be how they balance those two goals, and will it be enough to reinvigorate the economy? And to what extent will the government buffer the impact of what might be another phase in the U.S.-China trade war?

This year also marks the end of China's current 5-year plan, and experts will be looking for clues on the government's priorities for the next, 2026 to 2030 plan.

Here is what to watch for at this years event:

What is China's economic growth target?

The National Peoples Congress kicks off on Wednesday, with Premier Li Qiang, Chinas top economic official, announcing the economic growth target for the year.

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Analysts expect it to come in at around 5%  holding the same target as the previous two years, and slightly lower than the 5.5% target in 2022. This would be no small feat considering China is still grappling with a sluggish real estate sector and lackluster consumer spending.

Another uncertainty is trade tensions with the U.S. under President Donald Trump, who last month slapped a 10% tariff on Chinese imports while an additional 10% comes into effect on Tuesday. Forecasters at the International Monetary Fund are projecting a lower 4.6% growth rate this year.

What are the government's priorities?

A commentary last Friday from the official Xinhua News Agency indicated that priority would be placed on boosting domestic demand and promoting innovation in science and technology.

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There's also anticipation of more government support for the private sector to fuel growth.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met in February with business leaders, including Alibaba founder Jack Ma and Huawei CEO Ren Zhengfei, signaling support for the private sector at the highest level of leadership. A draft bill is also to be deliberated during the Congress over making a fairer and more equitable business environment for the private sector.

China has already released a slew of measures to prop up the economy. Much of these have fallen short of hopes for a bigger stimulus, and analysts are tempering expectations on what to expect from the Congress.

I would not expect anything ... to come out that will really meaningfully shift that policy away from industrial policy and towards boosting consumption in meaningful, sufficient ways, said Jacob Gunter, lead analyst for the economics research team at the Mercator Institute for China Studies.

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Instead, experts say leaders are staying the course on pushing for innovation that would boost Chinas self-reliance.

The purpose of the economy is no longer to improve household incomes and expand the middle class, Gunter said.

"This is not a development-oriented economy, he said. Its a geopolitically oriented economy, and technology and industry are way more important for that.

Where is China's diplomacy headed?

Li is expected to touch on foreign policy and Taiwan, but more attention will likely be on Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

His annual news conference, to be held later in the week, will be closely watched to decipher Chinas stance on U.S.-China relations under Trump. After the first 10% tariffs in February, China retaliated with a 15% tariff on American coal and liquefied natural gas, as well as 10% on crude oil, agriculture machinery and large-engine cars.

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Beijings response to Trumps initial 10% tariffs was measured  restrained enough to signal openness to negotiations yet firm enough to demonstrate its willingness to escalate if necessary, Neil Thomas and Jing Qian wrote in a report for the Asia Society Policy Institute.

They note that Chinas president might use speeches in closed-door meetings during the Congress to send signals on bilateral relations, as he did two years ago when Xi named the United States as leading containment encirclement and suppressions against China.

Also closely watched will be Chinas relations with Russia and its position on the Ukraine war. At a recent Group of 20 foreign ministers meeting in South Africa, Wang said a window for peace is opening in Ukraine, and that China supported all efforts committed to peace, including the recent consensus reached by the United States and Russia.

What does the National People's Congress do?

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The legislature is made up of nearly 3,000 delegates from Chinas provinces, ministries, Peoples Liberation Army, party organizations and various groups that represent workers and other interests.

Their role is largely ceremonial in that the body does not have any real power to decide on legislation. Any vote is usually unanimous or near-unanimous to formalize decisions already taken by Communist Party leaders behind closed doors.

Still, the Congress is a rare opportunity to see what the central governments sees as priorities and goals, and the reports and speeches during it can give indications of the future direction of government policy.

An advisory body, the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference, will meet at the same time. Members include business leaders, athletes, academics, religious leaders and representatives of ethnic groups. The concurrent meetings of the two bodies are known as the Two Sessions.
Officer-involved shooting update Cincinnati police will provide an update on an officer-involved shooting that took place in Walnut Hills Sunday night. Posted by FOX19 on Monday, March 3, 2025

Early insights into a police shooting in Walnut Hills Sunday night lead the department to believe the man who was shot called 911 on himself, Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa Theetge said.

A Cincinnati officer shot 31-year-old Patrick Lyons outside of his apartment on the 3000 block of Gilbert Avenue after he charged at officers with a knife, Theetge said during a Monday news conference.

The officers were called to the apartment near Walnut Hills Cemetery after a 911 call came in around 9:30 p.m. A man who identified himself as Lyons reported a "dangerous" person outside the apartment with a knife and a gun, according to a 911 call played during the news conference.

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Body camera footage from six minutes later showed two Cincinnati officers face off with Lyons on a narrow driveway.

"We're not here to shoot you, man," an officer said. "Drop down the knife. Drop the knife, man, please."

Theetge said officers were roughly 20 feet from Lyons, who was armed with what appeared to be a kitchen knife that had a roughly four-inch blade.

The officer continued to talk with Lyons. Theetge said at one point, Lyons told officers "they had 10 seconds."

Lyons can then be seen dropping his head and beginning to sprint toward the officers. An officer fired two shots at him, and he collapsed. The officers approached Lyons, telling him to show his hands. He's then placed in cuffs and rolled over for officers to begin first aid.

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Theetge said Lyons was transported to the hospital, where he is doing well and expected to recover. She said she has spoken to his family.

Lyons faces one charge of felonious assault, though additional charges from the prosecutor's office are possible, Theetge said. Lyons was released from prison two months ago after serving 12 years on an aggravated robbery charge, she said.

In that 2013 case, Lyons admitted to robbing a cab driver at gunpoint of his phone and money in North Fairmount, court documents show.

Chief refuses to release officers' names, citing law that protects crime victims

The chief did not release the names of any of the five officers involved, citing Marsy's Law. Marsy's Law is designed to protect the victims of crime, and the Ohio Supreme Court is considering whether this applies to police officers.

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Theetge said only one officer fired his weapon. That officer joined the Cincinnati Police Department in 2022.

None of the officers at the scene had been involved in a police shooting before, the chief said.

The shooting is being investigated by the Cincinnati Police Department and the Citizens Complaint Authority, Mayor Aftab Pureval said.

Shooting is third in area involving police over last few days

The shooting is the third by officers in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky region in the last few days.

Charles Davis, 62, of Covington was shot by officers there after an armed bank robbery on Friday afternoon, according to Kentucky State Police. Davis was taken to University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he was in stable condition as of Sunday morning, a state police spokeswoman told The Enquirer.

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Later that day, Robert Brandon Eldred, 39, was shot in Columbia Township after investigators say he charged at deputies with a bat and an axe, according to the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office. He was taken to UC Medical Center in critical condition.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Man shot by Cincinnati police in Walnut Hills may have called 911 on himself
Credit: Science.org

Mice have been filmed by scientists attempting first aid on each other.

Researchers from the University of Southern California drugged the rodents so they were immobilised and placed them near fully conscious mice to see how their peers would react.

The conscious mice were seen trying to clear the airways of the casualties by pulling their tongue out of the way and biting their mouth in an apparent attempt to revive them and help them to breathe.

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They were also seen licking and grooming their fallen lab-mates with more intensity than usual.

Although previous research has found elephants, chimpanzees and dolphins can all spot when an individual is incapacitated and respond with grooming and nudging, it is the first time a similar caring response has been seen in mice.

Researchers said the mice had exhibited a stereotypical set of behaviours when encountering an unconscious social partner, which had been reminiscent of human emergency responses.

Credit: Science.org

Writing in the journal Science, Huizhong Whit Tao, the lead author, said: They displayed distinct and consistent behaviours toward the partner, escalating from sniffing and grooming to more forceful actions such as biting the partners mouth or tongue and pulling its tongue out.

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These behaviours emerged after prolonged immobility and unresponsiveness of the partner and ceased once the partner regained activity, suggesting that they were triggered by observing unresponsive states of others.

The consequences  including clearance of foreign objects from the mouth, improved airway opening, and hastened recovery  suggest reviving-like efforts.

Experts found that mice that had met before spent more time trying to revive their companions compared with strangers, which researchers said suggested social recognition.

Mice spent more time trying to revive companions they had met before compared with strangers - University of Southern California

The reviving behaviour came to light after prolonged immobility and unresponsiveness and ceased once the mouse had regained activity, suggesting that they had been triggered by observing unresponsive states of others.

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It was also seen when mice interacted with a dead companion but rarely seen when the partner had been active or simply sleeping.

When researchers studied the brains of the mice to see what had been triggering the behaviour, they found that when the animals had encountered a fallen comrade, it had triggered neurons in the paraventricular nucleus, releasing oxytocin hormones responsible for social bonding.

When the oxytocin activation was blocked, the helping behaviours was impaired.

In emergency situations, humans often exhibit instinctual first aid behaviours towards others.

The researchers concluded: Our findings thus suggest that animals exhibit reviving-like emergency responses and that assisting unresponsive group members may be an innate behaviour widely present among social animals.

The researchers concluded that helping unresponsive group members may be widely present among social animals - Wenjian Sun/University of Southern California

Such behaviour likely plays a role in enhancing group cohesion and survival.

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In a commentary alongside the article, William Sheeran and Zoe Donaldson, of the University of Colorado Boulder, said: People who witness someone collapse and who subsequently perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) report that they intervene because they intuitively understand that the person would otherwise die.

Humans are not alone in this instinct. Animals as diverse as elephants, chimpanzees and dolphins can recognise and intervene by touching, nudging, and even carrying an incapacitated individual.

These findings add to the evidence that an impulse to help others in states of extreme distress is shared by many species and highlight neural mechanisms that drive instinctive rescue.

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President Trump is set to address a joint session of Congress for the first time during his second term on Tuesday, outlining the goals of his administration and how he views the state of the country.

The first address that the president gives to Congress is technically not referred to as a State of the Union, as those are only for the speeches given during the other three years in office. Instead, it is just called a joint address to Congress, though it functions similarly to a State of the Union.

Trumps remarks are set to begin at 9 p.m. ET, and several networks are planning to air it live, including CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, Fox News Channel, NewsNation, CNN and MSNBC. The Hill will also stream the speech live online.

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The president will address members of both parties from both chambers of Congress, along with Supreme Court justices and Cabinet members. At least one Cabinet member will be absent, as is customary, to serve as the designated survivor to ensure continuity of government in the case of any catastrophic event.

Presidents and lawmakers also invite guests to attend and often reference them in their speeches, sometimes in connection with a policy proposal they are laying out. The guests sit in a balcony above the House floor, where the speech occurs.

The speech will be followed by a Democratic response to the address from Sen. Elissa Slotkin (Mich.), which most networks also carry. Rep. Adriano Espaillat (D-N.Y.) will also give a Spanish-language response to Trumps address.

The world will be watching closely for signals on Trumps plans for the Russia-Ukraine war, following the tense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday, and trade policy, as wide-ranging tariffs are set to go into effect on Mexico, Canada and China this week.

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The Associated Press contributed reporting.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The New Mexico Legislature in Santa Fe on April 17, 2024. (Photo by Austin Fisher / Source NM)

Its never 9 to 5 at the Legislature, but this Saturday lawmakers met from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. between committee hearings and floor sessions  and one committee headed back Sunday for just a little more.

Over the weekend, the House passed a handful of bills, including changes to limit housing discrimination against renters, addressing leadership at higher education and expanding solar for tribal and rural communities.

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One bill would prohibit so-called source-of-income discrimination by landlords against prospective tenants. It amends the state Human Rights Act to prohibit landlords from refusing to rent to tenants who carry vouchers or other forms of subsidized rent, including Section 8 vouchers. The bill has been introduced in several recent sessions but never cleared the House until now.

All the legislation that cleared the floor now heads to the Senate side for committee assignments and a full Senate vote.

Also related to housing, the House Government, Elections and Indian Affairs Committee endorsed a bill creating a new executive Office of Housing Planning and Production. The effort, pushed by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, would create a small team in the governors office to coordinate various housing programs across the state and collect real-time data.

The governors push for an Office of Housing failed last session amid objections from the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. This year, NMFA Executive Director/Chief CEO Isidoro Hernandez spoke in favor of the legislation, which now heads to the House Appropriations and Finance Committee.

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The House Judiciary committee heard five bills on Saturday related to the Children Youth and Families Department. The committee advanced four of the bills unanimously to the House Floor.

Those bills are:

House Bill 5, which would create an independent Office of the Child Advocate attached to the New Mexico Attorney General. The advocate would have a six-year term and be appointed by a committee of nine members from all three branches of government.

House Bill 203, which would require CYFD to back up all electronic records, including emails, texts, instant messages and interagency communications.

House Bill 205, which would move the program for substance-addicted newborns out of CYFD and under the New Mexico Health Care Authority; establishes a nominating commission for CYFD leadership; beefs up the Substitute Care Advisory Council and moves it to the New Mexico Attorney Generals office; and requires CYFD to implement evidence-based prevention services qualifying for federal funds.

House Bill 364, which would require CYFD to determine if children in state custody are eligible or receiving federal benefits; build an account to keep the benefits in and prevent the CYFD from using those funds to pay or reimburse the department from costs of the childs care.

The final piece of legislation, House Joint Resolution 5, advanced on a party line 6-4 vote. The bills would ask for voters approval in 2026 to amend the states Constitution to create a new commission to appoint CYFDs director, removing that responsibility from the executive office.

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The constitutional amendment overlaps with the same provision in HB 205. If both pass, the nominating commission in HB205 would be in place until voters make the decision on the 2026 constitutional amendment.

CYFD reforms are part and parcel to the behavioral health and public safety reforms lawmakers put in place this session, said House Speaker Javier Martinez (D-Albuquerque) in a news release.

New Mexico has made incredible strides in improving child well-being in recent years, but the systems designed to protect our most vulnerable children are failing them, Martinez said. These failures contribute to generational cycles of poverty, trauma, and substance use, and worsen crime in our state. Preventing juvenile crime starts with protecting the health and safety of our kids.

CYFD, in turn, released statements saying that two of the bills would be disruptive, generate conflict of interest concerns and are opposed by experts overseeing court-ordered reform.

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Linking the Office of Child Advocate, administratively, to the Attorney Generals Office will lead to jurisdictional disputes and potential conflicts of interest, CYFD Secretary Teresa Casados said in a written statement. This would be a grave disservice to New Mexicos most vulnerable children and the dedicated CYFD professionals who have devoted their careers to protecting and helping them.

The news release advocated for putting an independent office in the Regulation and Licensing Department, which is in Senate Bill 363, which has not yet had a hearing before Senate Rules Committee.

The news release said HJR5 would jeopardize the states ability to meet requirements of 2019 Kevin S. settlement and court-mandated orders.

Wild living

The Senate gave the nod to a bill to alter the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish and the body that oversees it in a 28-12 vote.

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Senate Bill 5 renames the Department of Game and Fish to the Department of Wildlife, broadens the agencys mission and revamps how the New Mexico Game Commission is appointed.

Hunting and angling groups, conservation and wildlife nonprofits and a good government policy organization back the bill.

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Mar. 3In December 1850, John Andrew Jackson  who had escaped a plantation in South Carolina and was living in Massachusetts  showed up at the Brunswick home that Harriet Beecher Stowe and her family were renting while her husband taught at Bowdoin College.

Sent there by a friend of Stowe's, Jackson was looking for a place to stay for the night as he made his way north to Canada. The Fugitive Slave Act had passed a few months earlier, requiring even Northerners to return people who escaped slavery to their enslavers, and he was no longer safe living in the United States, where he openly had been raising money to buy the freedom of his wife and young daughter.

Stowe welcomed Jackson into their home, where he talked and sang with her young children. He showed Stowe the scars of slavery on his back, and she listened with sympathy to his story of being separated from his family. She gave him food, clothes and $5 and made up a place in her closet-sized "waste room" for him to sleep that night, according to Susanna Ashton, a Clemson University professor who last year published "A Plausible Man," a biography about Jackson and his role in inspiring Stowe to start writing "Uncle Tom's Cabin" weeks later in that same house on Federal Street.

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Now, the room where Jackson slept is slated to become the office of Cathi Belcher, who was recently rehired as educator and guide at the Bowdoin-owned Harriet Beecher Stowe House, where the writer lived for two years. It reopened to the public last week for the first time since the pandemic.

Between that and the publication of Ashton's book, "it's a high point for 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,'" said Tess Chakkalakal, a Bowdoin professor who has added to the recent activity around the novel with a podcast that she and a colleague co-host called "Dead Writers." Each episode, which also aired on Maine Public, focuses on the Maine home of a late literary giant and started in July with Stowe's house.

At the same time, the novel  that Abraham Lincoln is said to have credited with starting the Civil War by stoking the antislavery movement  seems to be disappearing from secondary school classrooms. Once considered required reading at the middle or high school level, it's not even taught in Brunswick schools, up the road from where it was written.

Suellyn Santiago, chief academic officer for the Brunswick School Department, said she wasn't able to find out whether it used to be part of the curriculum and, if so, why it wasn't anymore, though it's not hard to figure.

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"Uncle Tom's Cabin" has been criticized from all angles since it was published  by Southerners who said it misrepresented slavery, literary scholars who call it overly sentimental and racial justice advocates roiled by its perpetuation of stereotypes. There are also the racial slurs that have similarly knocked "Huckleberry Finn" off the standard high school English syllabus, said Adam Schmitt, an assistant professor of teacher education at the University of Southern Maine.

Schmitt, who specializes in elementary and secondary social studies, said there are a lot of reasons the book might not be taught as much in schools today. There's been an effort in recent decades to bring more underrepresented voices into the classroom, he said, and at the same time, students have more access than ever to primary source documents. So, rather than spending the time reading Stowe's lengthy, fictionalized story about slavery, students are more likely to learn about the book's role in history and read accounts of what slavery was like from people who experienced it.

"It's still referenced because it's a major part of the story of the Civil War, but I'm not sure how much it's actually read," Schmitt said.

As the subject of an entire college course, there's more room for all the context that reading the book requires  its reception, its cultural impact and, at Bowdoin, its origin story.

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Almost every year, Chakkalakal teaches "Reading 'Uncle Tom's Cabin' in the Twenty-First Century," which includes visiting Stowe's house, the First Parish Church where she had a vision of Tom's death, and the college's special collections, which has issues of the National Era abolitionist newspaper where Stowe's story was originally published.

Chakkalakal said it's become something of "a signature class at Bowdoin," and senior Kaitlin Weiss, who took it this fall, agreed.

Despite its 8:30 a.m. start time, Weiss said she and her friends would leave the class "juiced." Now, she tells all the underclassmen she knows, "this is one of the classes you have to take."

But you don't have to be a Bowdoin student to get a look inside Stowe's world as she was writing the bestselling novel of the 19th century. The Harriet Beecher Stowe House is now open noon to 3 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and visitors can sit and read or write in a parlor where Stowe would have held her salons, inviting Bowdoin professors and students (including eventual Civil War hero Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain) for discussions and, sometimes, readings of her work.

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Belcher, who also recently restarted a social justice book club at the house (that filled up immediately), has a lot more programming in the works, including the return of Teas with Harriet, monthly events during which she gives talks about some aspect of Stowe's life over refreshments.

When she held them before the pandemic, so many people showed up that she had to institute a ticketing system, and she expects, with all the time that's passed, demand will be high again. In the warmer weather, she plans to bring back her Historical Walk with Harriet around town, and she'd love to host regular salon-style discussions at the house too.

"I think the sky's the limit," said Belcher, who believes the community can match her enthusiasm for Stowe, the house and its role in history.

Where does her interest stem from? An English paper she wrote on "Uncle Tom's Cabin" in the '70s, when she was in high school.

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DAKAR, Senegal (AP)  A mission by a West African regional bloc sent to Guinea-Bissau to resolve a dispute over elections there has left the country, following threats by President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, according to a statement.

The dispute over the end date of Embalos term has escalated tensions and raised fears of unrest in the small West African nation of Guinea-Bissau, which has endured multiple coups since gaining independence from Portugal over 50 years ago.

The opposition argues that Embalos term, which began in 2020, should have ended last week while the countrys supreme court ruled that it ends on Sept. 4. Last month, Embalo announced that the next presidential and parliamentary elections will be held on Nov. 30.

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The bloc, known as ECOWAS, said its mission left early on Saturday. It was deployed from Feb. 21 to Feb. 28 together with the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel to help broker a consensus on when to hold the presidential election.

ECOWAS is West Africa's top political and economic authority, often collaborating with states to solve various domestic challenges. In recent years, however, it has struggled to reverse coups in the region and disputes with citizens complaining of not benefitting from their country's natural resources.

Embalo says he has survived two attempts to overthrow him. After the most recent one in Dec. 2023, which involved a shootout between the national and presidential guard, he dissolved the opposition-controlled parliament, accusing it of passivity.

Last week, Embalo met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss potential economic and security ties as Russia has emerged as the security partner of choice for a growing number of African governments, displacing traditional allies such as France and the United States.
Western tourists have returned to North Korea for the first time since the hermit kingdom closed its borders during the Covid crisis.

But for the group of around a dozen, who arrived last month, there was a catch.

Their destination was not the bright lights of Pyongyang, the pastel-coloured capital, where highly stage-managed tours used to make a life under Kim Jong-uns cartoon communism look almost appealing.

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Instead, they were sent to the mysterious eastern port of Rason, which was designated a special economic zone over 30 years ago to experiment with capitalism, as China and the Soviet Union had then begun doing.

For Joe Smith, a Briton on this weeks trip who had been to North Korea several times before, the decision seemed strange. His first impressions were not positive.

Compared with Pyongyang, Rason was desolate, poorer, more spread out with a lack of restaurants, he said.

Beneath its shabby surface, however, the town appeared to be at the centre of a tech boom sweeping through North Korea.

Western tourists were given the opportunity to try local food at one of few restaurants in the city - Joe Smith

First, the group were taken to an international goods market to see some North Korean entrepreneurship in action.

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Here, in the land of single-hearted unity, local go-getters were making a few Won trading mostly Chinese-made fake Gucci belts, Louis Vuitton-style handbags, teddy bears, guitars and drum kits.

The hustle and bustle seemed authentic, said Mr Smith, and locals appeared genuinely shocked to see 12 to 13 white people wandering around in our weird clothes.

Mr Smith, who lives in Seoul and speaks Korean, tried to make small talk with the traders, but was politely rebuffed with a smile every time. He said his South Korean twang sounds feminine to those living in the North, where the language is said to remain stuck in an old-fashioned 1950s register.

Joe Smith was among the first group of tourists to visit the hermit kingdom - Joe Smith

Kyle Grau, a 21-year-old video game developer from Australia, went to Rason specifically to see how computer technology was developing in the worlds most isolated country.

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He was amazed to find that North Koreans had apparently created their own versions of popular Western smartphone games.

They have a clone of Clash of Clans, a popular multi-player strategy game in which people build up a clan by raiding other players villages for resources.

As recently as 2019, smartphones had limited connectivity, with users having to go to a physical, bricks and mortar app store to have software installed  as opposed to the digital stores to which the West has grown accustomed.

Now players were busy launching online clan wars against each other with their phones fully hooked up to the countrys closed-off intranet.

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North Korea has also developed its own version of Amazon, and a payment system similar to Chinas WeChat, said Mr Grau, as well as a knock-off of the Western musical game Piano Tiles, which features propaganda anthems instead of pop hits.

He said he let the Koreans play his Western Piano Tiles, but they were not impressed and thought their own much better.

Western tourists remain restricted to the mysterious eastern port of Rason for the time being - Joe Smith

Covid appeared to hit Rason particularly hard, as Chinese businesses who reportedly brought in the goods and the app software disappeared overnight.

Mr Grau said this was something about which locals were relatively open, but one woman was quick to say she was crying with happiness at the generosity of the state when rations were delivered to her during a lockdown.

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For Riza Rasco, a Filipino entrepreneur, the trip marked the end of a 30-year-long adventure to visit every country in the world.

She said it was an incredible experience, the highlight being a visit to a childrens palace where youngsters do extracurricular activities such as music or taekwondo.

The facilities were amazing, Ms Rasco said, adding: If this was Kim Jong-uns idea, I like it.

She recorded a video of a childrens performance at the palace.

Credit: Riza Rasco

Around a dozen or so well-behaved youngsters sang a cutesy, high-pitched jingle for their Western visitors. On the screen behind them was a video of ballistic missiles sinking aircraft carriers. That was controversial, Ms Rasco admitted.

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At a foreign language school, one 15-year-old girl told her proudly: We are the happiest students in the world because our father [Kim Jong-un] provides for us. He provides our uniform, our shoes, our bags, and we dont need to worry about money.

The children were so passionate about their work, Ms Rasco said. It was an amazing thing.

She made notes of the propaganda slogans scrawled across buildings around town. We must do everything at the request of the masters, one read. We are the happiest in the world, another proclaimed.

Girls in brightly-coloured dresses perform for their Western guests - Joe Smith

Nicolas Pasquali, an Italian-Argentinian for whom North Korea was also the last country in the world he had not visited, said the technology was really top level  but it was, of course, only what the North Korean authorities wanted them to see.

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He was shocked by how brainwashed the schoolchildren appeared to be, with them saying that they wanted to serve in the military to protect their country. A Korean guide later challenged him about his own countrys authoritarian past, asking him, What about Mussolini? while on the tour bus.

Locals appeared genuinely shocked to see the Western tourists wandering around Rason - Joe Smith

Its not just the language visitors say remains stuck in the 1950s, but the hotel rooms as well - Joe Smith

The Koreans were said to have gone out of their way to accommodate the first Western guests they had seen for five years  apparently a little too much, as they sometimes served burgers and chips rather than the authentic local food the visitors were craving.

Mr Smith and Ms Rasco said they did get to eat some excellent Korean dishes, but they would often look with envy at what their guides were being served on another table before returning disappointed to a buffet of sandwiches and bowls of fruit.

Western tourists remain restricted to Rason for the time being, although Russian visitors are said to be able to visit the rest of the country.

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Koryo Tours  which organised this tour and was founded by British expats in Beijing in the 1990s to open up travel to North Korea  said it had a couple of trips scheduled every month from March.

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Hours after imposing sweeping new tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China, President Trump will deliver a nationally broadcast speech tonight to a joint session of Congress, the first such address of his second term.

In the speech, the president is expected to talk about the actions his administration has taken so far to dramatically shrink the size of the federal government, impose a series of tariffs on foreign imports, begin the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants and to recast traditional U.S. alliances with allies and foes alike.

Trump, some of whose Cabinet nominees have yet to be confirmed by the Senate, will also be laying out his governing agenda.

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When asked in a Fox News interview on Sunday what he expected from Trumps speech, House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, responded, Fireworks.

When is the speech and how can one watch it?

Trumps speech is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m. ET tonight.

Several networks and websites are planning to air it live, including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, CNNm MSNBC and Newsmax. The speech will also be broadcast live on YouTube.

Not a State of the Union address

Despite the fact that his remarks will be delivered to a joint session of Congress and Trump was invited to speak by Johnson, tonight's speech is not technically a State of the Union address. Thats because Trump was only sworn in again two months ago.

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It is my distinct honor and great privilege to invite you to address a Joint Session of Congress on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, in the Chamber of the U.S. House of Representatives, to share your America First vision for our legislative future, Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, wrote to the president in January.

The U.S. Constitution calls for presidents to give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient. Those addresses typically take place close to the beginning of a calendar year, however, after a president has been in office for roughly a year.

Rebuttal speech from Democrats

As for a State of the Union address, the opposing party will offer a rebuttal speech on Tuesday. Sen. Elissa Slotkin of Michigan will have the honors and will use her time to highlight how Trumps policies are impacting ordinary Americans.

"The public expects leaders to level with them on whats actually happening in our country," Slotkin said in a statement. "From our economic security to our national security, weve got to chart a way forward that actually improves peoples lives in the country we all love, and Im looking forward to laying that out."

Democratic no-shows, special guests and protests

Some high-ranking Democrats have announced they wont be attending Tuesdays speech. Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut and Sen. Brian Schatz of Hawaii will deliver their own rebuttal, which will be livestreamed as Trump is speaking.

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"I think Donald Trump is going to spew a series of lies about his alignment with Russia, about what he's trying to do to allow Elon Musk to essentially monetize the American government to enrich Musk and his billionaire crowd," Murphy told CNN. "And I'm just not going to be a part of that."

Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon has announced that he will hold a town hall meeting with constituents rather than attend Trumps speech to Congress.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York said in a social media post on Tuesday that she will not be attending Trumps speech. Instead, she plans to communicate with her 1.9 million followers on BlueSky during the address, before hosting a live event on Instagram, where she has 8.7 million followers.

Rep. Don Beyer of Virginia told Politico that he would also miss the speech.

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"The notion of half my colleagues rising and standing and enormous clapping for  things that I think are terrible for the American people every couple minutes will not be funny," Beyer said. "I dont see that Ill contribute anything to the event."

But the majority of Democrats believe that it is important that the party be represented in the House chamber when Trump speaks. Time reported Tuesday that dozens of Democratic congresswomen are planning to wear pink in protest of the president's policies. Many are also planning to bring along fired federal workers as invited guests, The Hill reported. Those include Rep. Brad Schneider of Illinois, who invited Adam Mulvey, an Army veteran who was fired last month from a federal health center in Chicago. Rep. Ritchie Torres of New York will bring Nancy Bolan, a federal health worker formerly with USAID who was also terminated last month in Trumps push to cut back the federal workforce.

Designated survivor

The designated survivor for tonight's speech, who will watch it from a secure location outside the Capitol, is Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins.
The day the world learned that Jeff Bezos would buy The Washington Post, the Amazon founder offered assurances that he would not cower when faced with threats from a vengeful president and his appointees.

He summoned memories of Richard Nixons attorney general, John Mitchell, who warned that the legendary publisher Katharine Graham was gonna get her tit caught in a big fat wringer if the Post published one of its Watergate stories. While I hope no one ever threatens to put one of my body parts through a wringer, Bezos wrote to the papers anxious journalists in August 2013, if they do, thanks to Mrs. Grahams example, Ill be ready.

I led the newsroom at the time Bezos bought the Post. For a long while, he fulfilled his promise to the paper and its readers, exceeding my expectations. Then he faltered badly.

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Now we know that Bezos is no Katharine Graham. It has been sad and unnerving to watch Bezos fall so terribly short of her standard as he confronts the return of Donald Trump to the White House. Its been infuriating to observe the damage he has inflicted in recent months on the reputation of a newspaper whose investigative reporting has served as a bulwark against Trumps most transgressive impulses.

All the signs lately point to a determined effort by Bezos to either placate Trump or please him outright: quashing an editorial that backed Kamala Harris for president only 11 days before the election and ending a decades-long tradition of presidential endorsements. A gushing postelection message of congratulations to Trump on his extraordinary political comeback, with no mention of Trumps sordid resistance to the peaceful transition of power, which marked a historic low in presidential politics. Having Amazon join other tech companies in donating $1 million to the inauguration fund. Making a pilgrimage to Mar-a-Lago for a late-night dinner with Trump, where Bezos and Melania Trump discussed a documentary about hera chat that led to a $40 million licensing deal with Amazon, reportedly nearly three times the offer of the next-highest bidder. Sitting on the dais, as Trumps showpiece, during the inauguration ceremony. And, last week, a Bezos memo prohibiting any opinion articles in the Post that arent aligned with his own ideology of personal liberties and free markets, an imperious intervention that caused the editorial-page editor to resign. Trump himself disclosed that hed dined with Bezos the very evening the Post owner issued his latest dictate.

[Read: There are no more red lines]

Hundreds of thousands of readers have canceled subscriptions, no longer confident that this great newspaper will keep faith with the mission implicit in its motto of Democracy dies in darkness. Many of the Posts talented journalists have decamped to other media outlets, unsure of their papers strategy and its soul.

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Thankfully, the news department continues to operate with admirable independence and vigor, delivering revelatory work about a second Trump administration. That makes it all the more dismaying to witness the Posts public image repeatedly tarnished as its owner cozies up to Trump with the evident goal of avoiding the presidents wrath and winning his favor.

For more than a decade, it looked as if Bezos would defy the worst expectations of him as a media owner. He did the right thing, surprisingly and encouragingly. I highlighted his many instances of steadfastness and courage in the 2023 book I wrote about my eight-year tenure as the Posts executive editor, which overlapped with Bezoss ownership and the first iteration of Trump in the White House. In all my interactions with him, I recounted, Bezos showed himself to have integrity and spine.

He oversaw an editorial page that unflinchingly, and with just cause, called Trump bigoted, ignorant, deceitful, narcissistic, vengeful, petty, misogynistic, fiscally reckless, intellectually lazy, contemptuous of democracy and enamored of Americas enemies. That was in a 2016 presidential endorsement of Hillary Clinton. In 2020, the Posts editorial page opposed his reelection, labeling him the worst president of modern times. After Trumps triumph in 2016, many of us at the Post worried that Bezos would capitulate to Trumps bullying as he acquired the fearsome powers of a president. And yet, Bezos allayed our concerns. He fully supported our news coverage, giving us complete journalistic independence. Never once did he interfere, even when stories provoked Trump to retaliate against Amazon and him personally. I admired that, and remain immensely grateful.

Dont worry about me, he told the political staff. I can take care of myself. I recall him musing later, in a dinner we had with leaders of The New York Times, how someday we might have to march together in protest if Trumps attacks on journalists endangered the constitutional right to a free and independent press.

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With the passage of time, its easy to forget how often Bezos was viciously denounced by Trump over the course of his first presidential campaign and first term as president. With Bezos pegged as a political enemy solely because of the Posts coverage, Trump pressed to raise postal rates for package deliveries, vowing, depending on the day, to double, triple, or quadruple rates paid by Amazon. He interfered in a $10 billion cloud-computing contract for the Department of Defense with the goal of ensuring that it didnt go to Amazon, which had been perceived to be the leading bidder. He endlessly, and falsely, taunted Bezos with accusations that he was using the Amazon Washington Post to lobby for government favors and avoid taxes. He mocked Bezoss divorce and his extramarital affair, ridiculing him as Jeff Bozo.

[Joshua Benton: Jeff Bezoss hypocritical assertion of power]

Against those attacks and others, Bezos pushed back. In May 2016, I interviewed him at a conference held in the Posts Washington, D.C., headquarters. I gave his staff a heads-up that I would ask about Trumps broadsides against him, and for the first time, Bezos addressed them. Most of the worlds population, Bezos said, live in countries where, if you criticize the leader, you can go to jail. We live in the oldest and greatest democracy in the world, with the strongest free-speech protections in the world, and its something that we are, I think, rightly proud of  We want a society where any of us, any individual in this country, any institution in this country, if they choose to, can scrutinize, examine, and criticize an elected official, especially a candidate for the highest office in the most powerful country on Earth.

In a 2018 interview with the financier and philanthropist David Rubenstein, Bezos spoke out forcefully and eloquently against Trumps assault on the press: If youre the president of the United States or a governor of a state or whatever, you dont take that job thinking youre not going to get scrutinized. Youre going to get scrutinized, and its healthy  Its dangerous to call the media lowlifes. Its dangerous to say that theyre the enemy of the people. He commended the work I was doing as the Posts editor in charge of news coverage and that of Fred Hiatt, who oversaw editorials and opinions. In slang expressing unreserved approval, and to robust applause in a cavernous ballroom, he said we were killing it.

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Bezos also made the gutsy legal request to have Trump deposed over the loss of the Defense Department contract. The question is whether the President of the United States should be allowed to use the budget of DoD to pursue his own personal and political ends, Amazons lawyers wrote in late 2019. President Trumps animosity toward Mr. Bezos, Amazon, and the Washington Post is well known, and it originates at least in part from his dissatisfaction with the Washington Posts coverage of him from before he assumed office.

You no longer hear tough words like that from Bezos and his camp. At least as striking as his recent, highly publicized overtures to Trump is his drastic shift to highly accommodating language.

When Bezos spoke in December at the Times DealBook conference, it was as if he were a different person. He looked different, more buff. He sounded different, more meek. There was no expression of appreciation for the Posts coverage, nor anything about the importance of the Post or the media generallyonly his intent to try to talk Trump out of that idea that the press is the enemy of the people. I dont think hes going to see it the same way, he added, elaborating a bit on that minimalist goal. But maybe Ill be wrong. (Predictably, he was wrongspectacularly so.) And then Bezos assessed that Trump was calmer than he was the first time and more settled. Bezos could not have believed the words he uttered.

[George Packer: The Washington Post is dying a death of despair]

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The big question is why Bezoss language and behavior have changed so dramatically. I cant get into Bezoss head, of course, but one answer must lie in an indisputable fact: Trump is less calm, less settled, and far more vindictive. He campaigned for office pledging retribution against the enemy from withinin other words, anyone who opposed him. In August 2023, Trump wrote on Truth Social: IF YOU GO AFTER ME, IM COMING AFTER YOU. By October of last year, NPR had counted 100 instances of Trump threatening to prosecute or punish political enemies.

Bezos has ample reason to worry about the consequences of any retribution. Federal contracts are key to the success of Amazon Web Services, the cloud-computing division that has been delivering more than half of the companys profits. An arch-competitor is Oracle, whose founder and chairman is Larry Ellison, the GOP megadonor whom Trump hosted recently at the White House and extolled as one of the most serious players anywhere in the world. Bezoss commercial space venture, Blue Origin, has received billions of dollars from his personal bank account. Januarys successful launch into orbit of its New Glenn rocket positions Blue Origin to finally compete with Space X, the pacesetter owned by Trumps seemingly omnipotent best buddy, Elon Musk. The government will be Blue Origins essential customer.

You dont have to look far to see what might happen to businesses in Trumps crosshairs. Solely because the top-tier law firm of Covington & Burling represents the former special counsel Jack Smith, Trump stripped its attorneys of national-security clearances and ordered federal agencies to cancel the firms federal contracts. Smith had received pro bono assistance in anticipation of retributive investigations and prosecution by Trumps Justice Department. The president, who had sworn only a month earlier to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution, aimed to damage a law firm for work that is guaranteed under the Sixth Amendments promise of access to counsel.

Newspaper owners have every right to set their papers overall direction, and opinions expressed in editorialsor whether to publish any at allhave always been their prerogative. In a note to readers this past October, Bezos argued that calling for a halt to presidential endorsements would help avoid a perception of bias and a perception of nonindependence. He framed it as an effort to restore reader trust, which has sharply declined for the media. We must work harder to control what we can control to increase our credibility, he wrote.

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Setting aside whether a presidential endorsement every four years truly weighs more heavily in readers perceptions of bias than the daily editorials on sharply polarizing subjects, Bezoss own behavior since that decision has undercut his stated goals. Appearing on the dais during Trumps inauguration did not look like working harder to increase the Posts credibility. Nor did it signal independence. Instead, it suggested dependence on Donald Trump. Bezos denies that fear of retaliation against his other commercial interests had anything to do with the endorsement decision. That was certainly not on my mind, he told the Times Andrew Ross Sorkin at the DealBook conference. That strains belief.

We saved The Washington Post once. This will be the second time, Bezos said during the DealBook interview. It took a couple of years. It made money for six or seven years after that. In the last few years, its lost money again. It needs to be put back on a good footing again  We have a few other ideas.

The opinion sections Bezos-mandated pivot to personal liberties and free markets appears to be one of them. Bezos is right that his previous strategy for turning the Post into a national news organization was a grand success, and I was glad to execute it as my fellow journalists and I contributed good ideas of our own and scotched some really bad ones. This latest turn seems less promising, not to mention less inspiring. Will readers drawn to the Post outnumber those who lose confidence in it?

[Read: The tech oligarchy arrives]

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Whats especially worrisome about Bezoss instructions is the mandate that alternative views are unwelcomeleft to be published by others. And neither Bezos nor the Posts publisher, Will Lewis, has defined what precisely is meant by personal liberties and free markets, identified what sorts of opinions would be considered nonconforming, or addressed how this might affect the reputations of columnists who remain on staff. Who exactly in the opinion section has been against personal liberties? Will opinions in favor of regulation (of major tech platforms, for example) not be tolerated? Will it be allowable to speak of instances where markets have failed or gone awry? If columnists take a free-market view, wont readers conclude that theyre doing so only because theyre required to as a condition of employment?

Lewis, in a note to staff, celebrated the recalibrated content strategy for offering new clarity and transparency. But Post columnists tell me they have no clue what it foretells and whether theyll fit in. Theyve asked for explanations from the owner and the publisher, and been met with silence. Opacity, not transparency, appears to be the order of the day.

The White House and its allies, in contrast, didnt seem confused at all about what was in the offing. Steven Cheung, the White House communications director, responded to the edict by posting a GIF of a typically grumpy Grinch cracking a smile. Elon Musk promptly blasted out, Bravo, @JeffBezos! The right-wing activist Charlie Kirk cheered, Good! The culture is changing rapidly for the better. None of them worried that Bezoss directive constituted what they claim to abhor (and what it is): cancel culture.

The most fundamental American liberty is free expression. Newspapers such as the Post have long honored that constitutional right by welcoming a wide range of views in the opinion section, whether their leadership agrees with them or not, so as to encourage civil public debate. Bezos was now decreeing that views out of alignment with his own ideology would not see the light of day in territory that he controls. The paper that proclaims itself to be on the side of democracy had taken a step that was distinctly undemocratic.

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As of today, the Posts editorials continue to take Trump to task. After Fridays quarrelsome White House meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Post judged that Trump sounded more like Don Corleone than an American president. In the months ahead, well see if a reconfigured opinion section censures the president for his abject failure to practice what Bezos preaches.

Trump and the modern Republican Party are anything but models of free-market principle. An affection for punitive tariffs is but one example. The incessant bullying of private enterprise to serve Trumps political interests is yet another, as Bezos knows from personal experience. In todays Republican Party, the Post columnist Catherine Rampell has written, the primary economic role of the state is not to get out of the way. It is, instead, to reward friends and crush political enemies.

[From the March 2025 issue: Capitulation is contagious]

As for personal liberties, its difficult to imagine a greater hazard than Trump, a man who speaks admiringly of the worlds dictators. He asserts unprecedented presidential powers and has demonstrated disdain for the rule of law. He is using the federal government as a weapon against his political adversaries, withdrawing security protection from former officials who have crossed him and threatening prosecution of those he deems to have persecuted him. High on the list of targets is the press, a regular object of harassment, intimidation, investigation, litigation, and condemnation, with the goal of further undermining public trust and sabotaging economic sustainability.

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If the Post does its job correctly in both its opinion section and its news coverage, it will hold Trump fully accountable when he engages in deceit and as he continues to subvert this countrys democratic institutions. It will report what Trump is seeking to conceal but what the public deserves to know. That, at some point, will make the Post a fresh target for malevolent and punishing attacks. Amazon and Blue Origin might well be in the line of fire too, and Bezoss postelection outreach to Trump is unlikely to count for much amid his fury.

As Bezos decides how to respond, I urge him to make one of his rare visits to the Posts newsroom and stare at the wall where its nearly century-old principles are affixed, paying attention to two in particular. No. 1: The first mission of a newspaper is to tell the truth as nearly as the truth may be ascertained. And then No. 5: The newspapers duty is to its readers and to the public at large, and not to the private interests of its owners.

Article originally published at The Atlantic
Where to see local artists torn-paper collage work

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN)  A local artist is being recognized by the City of Centerville and its art commission.

Jenn Rathweg will have pieces on display throughout the month of March, as the Centerville Arts Commission announced in a press release.

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Rathweg grew up in Centerville, and now operates a studio in Middletown. Art runs in her family, as her great-grandfather Aloys Segerer was a Dayton artist. Segerer has work featured at Carillon Park, Daytons Memorial Hall and the Dayton Masonic Temple.

Collaborative artwork benefits We Care Arts

Rathweg discovered her medium of choice a few short years ago.

I have always had an interest in art and have dabbled in many different mediums for years, Rathweg said. In 2020 I found my niche, using torn pieces of magazine to create portraits.

Rathweg will host a reception on Sunday, March 9 from 2 to 5 p.m.

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In the meantime, her work will be on display at the Centerville Police Department, on 155 West Spring Valley Road, for the rest of the month as part of a new gallery of artists.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDTN.com.
US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz has stated that the US administration expects Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to express regret over the dispute that occurred in the Oval Office last Friday.

Source: Waltz in an interview with Fox News, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Waltz said that the spat between Trump and Zelenskyy demonstrated that the Ukrainian president is not ready "to talk peace at all".

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Quote from Waltz: "But heres the problem: time is not on his side, time is not on the side of just forever continuing this conflict, the American peoples patience is not unlimited, their wallets are not unlimited, and our stockpiles in munitions are not unlimited."

Details: Waltz believes that Zelenskyy could have left the White House on Friday "having the US and Ukraine bound together economically for a generation".

Quote from Waltz: "President Zelenskyy truly did his country a real disservice by not having a positive outcome on Friday, and you know, well see where things are going forward."

Details: Waltz also pointed out that the White House wants to hear from Zelenskyy that "he has regret for what happened, he is ready to sign this minerals deal, and that he is ready to engage in peace talks".

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Quote from Waltz: "I dont think thats too much to ask. I think thats whats best for the American people, for the Ukrainian people, for Russia, and for the world to restore stability."

Background:

On 28 February, Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule after a spat with Trump and JD Vance.

In response, Trump claimed that the Ukrainian president had "disrespected" the United States and that Zelenskyy was "not ready for peace".

Read this analysis by European Pravda editor Sergiy Sydorenko on what this agreement means for Kyiv and Washington

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
By Erin Banco

(Reuters) -The United States is drawing up a plan to potentially give Russia sanctions relief as President Donald Trump seeks to restore ties with Moscow and stop the war in Ukraine, a U.S. official and another person familiar with the matter told Reuters.

The White House has asked the State and Treasury departments to draft a list of sanctions that could be eased for U.S. officials to discuss with Russian representatives in the coming days as part of the administration's broad talks with Moscow on improving diplomatic and economic relations, the sources said.

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The sanctions offices are now drawing up a proposal for lifting sanctions on select entities and individuals, including some Russian oligarchs, according to the sources.

So-called options papers are often drafted by officials working on sanctions, but the White House's specific request for one in recent days underscores Trump and his advisers' willingness to ease Russian sanctions as part of a potential deal with Moscow.

It was not immediately clear what Washington could specifically seek in return for any sanctions relief.

Russia is one of the world's biggest oil producers and if U.S. sanctions on its energy system were eased, it could help prevent fuel prices from rising if Trump cracks down on oil exports from OPEC-member Iran.

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The White House, the State Department, the Treasury Department and the Russian embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Kremlin last year described relations as "below zero" under the administration of Joe Biden, a Democrat who backed Ukraine with aid and weapons and imposed tough sanctions on Russia to punish it for its invasion in 2022.

But Trump, who has promised a quick end to the war, has upended U.S. policy swiftly to open talks with Moscow, beginning with a phone call to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Feb. 12 that was followed by meetings between U.S. and Russian officials in Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

U.S. sanctions on Russia since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine have included measures aimed at limiting revenues from the country's huge oil and gas industry and weakening its ability to fund the war.

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Western governments led by Washington imposed a $60-per-barrel price cap on Russia's oil exports. Biden also hit Moscow with designations on Russian energy companies and vessels that shipped its oil, including Washington's toughest-yet measures on Jan. 10 shortly before leaving office.

Trump in January threatened to ramp up sanctions on Russia if Putin was unwilling to negotiate an end to the war in Ukraine. But more recently, Trump administration officials have openly acknowledged the possibility of easing sanctions on Moscow.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said during a Feb. 20 interview with Bloomberg Television that Russia could win economic relief, depending on how it approached negotiations in the coming weeks. Trump told reporters on Feb. 26 that Russian sanctions could be eased "at some point."

ECONOMIC COOPERATION

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The White House asked State and Treasury officials to devise a possible sanctions relief plan before Trump last week extended a state of emergency over the situation in Ukraine, the U.S. sources said.

The state of emergency sanctions certain assets and people involved in Russia's war. Those measures, imposed by then-President Barack Obama's administration, have been in place since March 2014, when Russia annexed Ukraine's Crimea.

It is unclear which Russian sanctions the Trump administration would consider lifting first.

Trump could issue an executive order that would allow the administration to begin the process of easing some Russian sanctions, but he would also need to seek congressional approval to lift measures on certain entities, said John Smith, a partner at Morrison Foerster law firm and the former head of the Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control.

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Since 2022, Russia has been able to build a wartime economy with increased military spending and industrial production. But experts say the country's economy is vulnerable and in desperate need of Western sanctions relief.

Russia says it is open for economic cooperation. The Kremlin said last week that Russia had lots of rare earth metal deposits and was open to doing deals to develop them after Putin held out the possibility of such collaboration with the U.S.

Any formal economic deal with Moscow would likely require the U.S. to ease sanctions.

Trump has been seeking a minerals deal with Ukraine - home to a trove of lithium deposits and rare earth minerals - as pay back for billions of dollars in U.S. aid. However, no deal was signed after an explosive Oval Office meeting between Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on Friday.

(Reporting by Erin Banco, additional reporting by Timothy Gardner, editing by Michelle Nichols and Deepa Babington)
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Rowing cross-handed takes some getting used to, but thats the technique required to master an Adirondack guide boat  the lightweight yet sturdy wooden vessel built for the rugged waterways of northern New York State. After a knuckle-bashing start with its long oars, Im soon gliding across the glassy surface of Sagamore Lake. Youre rewiring your brain right now, says my guide, Cari Ray. Doesnt that feel good?

The plaintive calls of a solitary loon echo across the water, but aside from this bird were alone on the lake that fronts 127-year-old Great Camp Sagamore, one of several historic camps in Adirondack Park, four hours north of New York City. A 9,375sq-mile patchwork of state-owned and private land, the park is bigger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks combined. Yet, with no gates or fees to enter, it retains a sense of wildness that can feel missing in those other parks. Im here to follow in the footsteps  and paddle strokes  of Americas early vacationers, the first of many generations lured here by natures restorative powers.

The lakefront Great Camp Sagamore is one of several historic lodges still offering rooms in the Adirondacks. Photograph by Jessica Riehll

Home to Indigenous groups including the Mohawk and Mahican for millennia, the Adirondack region became more widely known with the 1869 publication of William Henry Harrison Murrays Adventures in the Wilderness. The New England clergymans book encouraged camping for recreation rather than survival  a novel idea at that time  and included vivid descriptions of local lakes gleaming amid the depths of the wilderness like gems of purest ray amid the folds of emerald-coloured velvet. Murray exalted the curative qualities of perfect relaxation for jaded minds, inspiring thousands of New Yorkers to vacate their apartments and flee to the Adirondacks, coining the new term vacation. Spiralling demand led to a flurry of hotel construction.

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As we explore the lake, Cari explains the origins of Sagamore and the areas other Great Camps. The flurry of late-19th-century industrial activity that culminated in Americas Gilded Age funded these private retreats for elite northeastern families, built on some of the Adirondacks most remote shorelines. William West Durant, the son of a railroad tycoon, developed the first of these camps (Sagamore was his third and his showpiece, according to Cari). Set in a forest of hemlocks and pines, its cluster of rustic buildings  constructed from natural materials, including rough-hewn logs and bark  became the blueprint for all national park [lodges] in this country; buildings that blend into the landscape, says Cari. In 1901, Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, one of Americas richest men, bought the camp. His expansions and improvements  as well as his elaborate parties  solidified its status as a palatial wilderness retreat.

Small independent shops like The Birch Store in Keene Valley dot Adirondack mountain towns. Photograph by Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism, Lake Placid NY

But the era of the Great Camp was short lived. By the mid-20th century, many of their wealthy owners had died or lost their fortunes in the Great Depression. As cities became more comfortable and international travel more accessible, the Adirondacks lost their lustre. The Vanderbilt family sold Sagamore and it fell into disrepair. Now restored to its former glory and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2000, it offers guided tours and overnight stays. These days, people are not coming to hardcore venture out into the wilderness, as Cari puts it, but for the restorative effect  enhanced by the lack of mobile reception and spotty wi-fi. Were not sorry about that, adds Cari. Its an invitation to be fully present.

In the 19th century, reaching Sagamore from New York might have taken several days and multiple modes of transport  today, guests still reach the woodland retreat from the main road via four miles of bumpy, unpaved track. Over two days, I spend many hours lazing on my cabins lakefront porch or enjoying communal meals in the dining hall, including pastas and dishes prepared by visiting Mexican culinary students. The rest of my time is spent exploring Sagamores 1,526 acres by paddle and on foot.

One morning, I join the camps resident historian, Connor Williams, for a tour of the camps preserved buildings  complete with log beams, sturdy wooden furniture and cosy, moose- and bear-patterned rugs and blankets. He grew up holidaying in the Adirondacks and settled here a few years ago. A lot of folks are rediscovering it as a place to live, says Connor. Increasingly, visitors arent coming to Sagamore to see a shrine to the Gilded Age, he explains, but to explore the elemental forces that shaped the eras elite. Coal, steel, timber  those industries made them so wealthy, he explains. But their effects made them want to flee the cities for the woods.

Mount Jos gentle slopes make it a good mountain for novice hikers. Photograph by Walter Bibikow, Getty Images

To protect the region from the ravages of heavy industry, Adirondack Park was formed in 1892. Two years later, the New York State Constitution decreed that its state-owned Forest Preserve be forever kept as wild forest lands. Unsullied by development, the region remains a playground for human-powered adventure, from hiking in biodiverse, unlogged forests to kayaking in pristine protected waterways. The latest addition is the still-in-development Adirondack Rail Trail, a network of former-train-track paths being repurposed for journeys by bike and even snowshoe. One of the parks most popular activities is summiting the Adirondack High Peaks. Tackling the 46 mountains  all roughly over 4,000ft in height  is the New York State equivalent of Munro-bagging.

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After leaving Sagamore, I travel 90 miles north east to climb 4,240ft Big Slide Mountain, one of the easier of the 46 to tackle. From the top, my view confirms the veracity of the states forever wild boast: Im surrounded by thick forest, broken only by rocky mountain summits and slides. I could return again and again and find this view unchanged.

Afterwards, I reward myself with a German-style kolsch beer at Paradox Brewery  set in a timber-framed building in the town of North Hudson, it offers mountain views from its patio and through its large windows. The town was hard hit by the closure of its Wild West theme park in the late 1990s, but the opening of a brewery on the site in 2020 sparked its revival. In the region, even private land is tightly regulated by the Adirondack Park Agency, so development  or the lack of it  is a contentious economic issue.

Since it opened, Paradox Brewery has revitalised the town of North Hudson. Photograph by Conbrad Media

Lake Placid offers perfect spots for a short rest or generous relaxation with impeccable views. Photograph by Walter Bibikow, AWL Images

Less problematic has been the trend for entrepreneurs to acquire and repurpose properties that have remained empty since previous downturns. These businesses tend to draw visitors away from the main tourism hubs of Lake Placid and Lake George and towards the Adirondacks less-celebrated hamlets. Crown Points War Cannon Spirits transformed a crumbling 200-year-old former lumber mill into a tasting room, restaurant and events space in 2022; Tupper Lakes Quebec-influenced restaurant, The Woodshed on Park, opened in a long-dormant building in 2023; and The Mill, an arts centre, performance space and speakeasy, opened in a former grain mill in Westport in 2024.

My next destination is The Lodge at Schroon Lake, which from the 1940s was run as a religious compound by an evangelical church before returning to its origins by reopening as a hotel in 2023. Evoking the spirit of the classic American summer camp, it offers activities from pickleball to outdoor film screenings, but I opt for a trip aboard a vintage-style wooden motorboat. Setting out from the lodges private marina, we cruise past lavish holiday homes, charming cottages and a private island run as a kids summer camp. As I watch the High Peaks recede into the distance behind the boats wake, captain Mark Erler  also an outdoor guide and instructor  tells me hes been working in the Adirondacks for a quarter of a century.

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He was a bemused witness to the post-pandemic boom, which brought people to the region whod never been in the woods before in their lives, he says, smiling. The last time that many fish out of water came to the Adirondacks was after Murrays book, Mark adds. Some of them lost digits! The press branded those woefully unprepared 19th-century vacationers Murrays Fools but their modern-day equivalents have no excuse: the Adirondack Mountain Club promotes responsible outdoor recreation through regular skills workshops and guided hikes.

Balancing visitor interest in the area with the conservation of the landscapes that draw them here is challenging. But the parks size is one of its safeguards  there are still plenty of tucked-away corners that remain relatively undisturbed compared to the crowded towns and trailheads. Stringent land management may mean progress in the Adirondacks is slow, as Mark puts it, but he believes the benefits are worth it. Theres nothing we have invented that filters water and air as effectively as undeveloped landscapes covered in trees, he says, steering the boat towards a pine-covered shore. Thanks to a local commitment to sustainable tourism, the land where the American vacation was born now serves as a model for its future.

Published in the USA guide, available with the Jan/Feb 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).



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NATO membership for Ukraine is becoming increasingly elusive.

The previous U.S. administration silently opposed extending a NATO invitation to Ukraine. The current U.S. administration has made its opposition public.

"You can forget about (NATO membership). That's probably the reason the whole thing (war) started," U.S. President Donald Trump said on Feb. 26 when asked about the potential settlement between Ukraine and Russia.

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Such a policy by Ukraine's main backer has raised eyebrows in the past. It doesn't anymore.

For decades, Russian officials and propaganda have been using NATO enlargement as a justification for the Kremlin's hostile action toward the country's neighbors, including its wars against Ukraine and Georgia.

Despite the U.S. and other NATO member states giving a variety of reasons why they have been against welcoming Ukraine to the military alliance, experts the Kyiv Independent spoke to said the only real reason for keeping Kyiv out is Moscow's stance on the issue.

"The Biden administration was always fearful of escalation in the conflict with Russia. The Trump administration has its own reasons, probably linked to any deal it's trying to strike with Moscow on a ceasefire," Mark Webber, non-resident associate fellow at the NATO Defense College, told the Kyiv Independent.

Does Ukraine meet NATO's requirements?

NATO follows "an open door" policy, meaning that a new country can be invited to join the alliance with the consent of all 32 members. The requirements for future candidates include support for democracy, development of a market economy, civilian control of the armed forces, respect for the sovereignty of other countries, and work on interoperability with NATO forces.

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The first step to joining the alliance is receiving a Membership Action Plan (MAP) with recommendations for the candidate country. In 2008, Ukraine applied to receive the MAP and was able to secure the backing from U.S. President George W. Bush.

Yet, under increased pressure from Russian President Vladimir Putin, the alliance members, primarily Germany and France, rejected Ukraine's aspirations to join NATO.

Kyiv returned to the path of Euro-Atlantic integration years later, after Russia launched its war against Ukraine, occupying Crimea and parts of the country's eastern Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

Polish soldiers train with M1A2 Abrams tanks during Anakonda-23 at the Nowa Deba range in Poland on May 6, 2023. (Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Before the start of the war, most Ukrainians didn't support joining a military union and preferred their country to remain a neutral state. Following the start of the war, NATO membership was supported by the majority of the population, peaking at over 80% following the start of the all-out war in 2022.

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In late 2022, Ukraine applied for an accelerated accession to the alliance, and in 2023, NATO leaders ruled that Kyiv could become a member without the need for a Membership Action Plan.

Yet, Kyiv wasn't invited to join, unlike Finland and Sweden that are also in close proximity to Russia.

"Ukraine is seemingly unusual in that it is a large, important pro-NATO country, which wants to join the alliance but has not generated consensus amongst it to be admitted," Webber said.

NATO members could also be restrained by the level of potential obligations to a country that joined the alliance while it is at war and by the provisions of the North Atlantic Treaty on collective defense, enshrined in Article 5, according to the expert.

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Read also: Europe must finally take charge of its security  starting in Ukraine

The article suggests that an attack on one member is an attack on all member states, however, it doesn't clearly define the actions that member states are obligated to take.

Among the reasons Ukraine was denied membership in the past were the lack of transparency in defense procurement and the allegedly high level of corruption in the country, as the Biden administration hinted previously. Yet Webber said NATO has already been joined by countries with "a poor record when it comes to corruption."

"Albania, Bulgaria, and Romania joined NATO and the European Union, even though I think it would be fair to say that their political, economic system and even the management of defense procurement had a whiff of corruption about it," Webber said.

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"I think it's probably an excuse that is used (against Ukraine)," he added. "Ultimately, the geostrategic problem and the fear of antagonizing Russia is the most significant obstacle."

This opinion is shared by Stefan Wolff, professor of international security at the University of Birmingham.

"Russia, arguably, feels more threatened by Ukrainian NATO membership because (Vladimir) Putin clearly cannot accept that Ukraine 'turns against' Russia and because Ukraine, unlike Finland or Sweden, is integral to Putin's vision of a Russian sphere of influence," Wolff said.

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Russia's influence on Western bloc

Russia attempted to justify its invasion of Ukraine by an alleged threat from NATO, among other reasons. Now, the Kremlin is putting a ban on Ukraine to ever joining NATO among its main demands for concluding a potential peace agreement to end the war it had started.

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Several NATO members, including the U.K., France, Italy, Poland, and the Baltic states, have supported Ukraine's accession to NATO, calling it an essential security guarantee. Yet, two key members, U.S. and Germany, as well as Hungary and Slovakia, have declared that they do not support this step.

"Germany has traditionally been cautious when it comes to upsetting opinions in Russia," Webber said.

It's difficult to predict whether this position will change under Friedrich Merz, who is set to become Germany's next chancellor in the upcoming months.

Merz has been seen as a pro-Ukrainian politician, recently calling for transferring German-made long-range Taurus missiles to Ukraine, which Chancellor Olaf Scholz has been hesitant to do.

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Regarding Slovakia and Hungary, experts agree that with prime ministers Robert Fico and Viktor Orban in office, it would be hard to push those countries to support an invitation to Ukraine.

Bratislava and Budapest continue to argue that Ukraine's membership in NATO will lead to an escalation with Russia.

The main obstacle would, of course, be Washington, with the current administration signaling that Ukraine is not welcome to join an alliance or to receive any sort of security guarantee.

At the same time, Wolff noted that joining NATO may not meet Kyiv's expectations on security guarantees.

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"The key question, to which nobody really has an answer at the moment, is whether, under Trump, the deterrent effect of Article 5 still has any credible meaning. If it doesn't, then joining the alliance would not give Ukraine the security it deserves," Wolff said.

Read also: Taurus missiles, stronger Europe  what can Ukraine hope for after German elections

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Credit: JACK TAYLOR/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Prince William has been showing a different side of himself at recent engagements. Once a stickler for the royal rules, the Prince of Wales has embraced being a more modern and relatable member of the British Royal Family. For instance, just last year, Prince William filmed a TikTok to help out a student who was late to class. Now, William has shown his concern for a royal superfan who chose meeting him over attending classes.

On Feb. 28, Prince William visited Bournemouth and Poole College to launch a new partnership aimed at building more homes in the south west of England. During the visit, William spoke to Natasha Gorry, a young superfan who had clearly spent a lot of time waiting to meet the prince. After a conversation, Prince William hugged Gorry, but it's clear that his parental instinct had him worried about her missing out on her education.

Prince William meeting royal superfan Natasha Gorry. | Credit: JACK TAYLOR/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Prince William shakes Natasha Gorry's hand. | Credit: JACK TAYLOR/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

"Go on, give me a hug," William told Gorry, via the Daily Mail. "So nice to see you but you've got some lessons to go to now. I'm going to get you in trouble for keeping you out of your lessons now."

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After Gorry reportedly tried to reassure William that she hadn't missed anything important, he responded, saying, "You've got a free period now? When's lunch break? You've brought the sun out today, it's lovely."

"Go on, give me a hug," William told Gorry. | Credit: JACK TAYLOR/POOL/AFP via Getty Images

Gorry was, of course, delighted to have met Prince William and had such a genuine exchange with him. "I am so happy," she said, according to the Daily Mail. "He gave me a hug. I love it. I'm excited...I told him what course I was doing. He's an amazing guy."
Nick Norris has seen the T-shirt a Salt Lake City resident created with 54 blocks shaded in an array of colors.

It looks like a color palette posted in the paint aisle of a hardware store, but Norris, the city's planning director, gets the reference. The shirt is poking fun at Salt Lake City's zoning options, which are so vast, some hues appear identical.

"To me, it exemplifies the issue that we have so many different zones," he told KSL.com.

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While he chuckles thinking about it, he says serious consequences are tied to the city's current zoning structure. It's become difficult for developers and homeowners to use  and for the city to manage.

City, state and national housing experts say zoning policies can also impact housing prices, a key issue in Salt Lake City. It also may have factored in the school district's recent decision to close four elementary schools.

That's why Salt Lake City is looking to completely rewrite its zoning map, trimming 26 existing mixed-use and commercial zones, differentiated by height, into six more distinctive zones. Residential zones will remain, but city planners are proposing that rules be simplified and modified to allow for more units per lot as the city grows.

City leaders hope that it can make a difference.

A national phenomenon

What Salt Lake City is proposing isn't revolutionary. Norris points out that the city once allowed "all kinds of housing types," in the 1920s, but those were "chipped away at" over the next century as codes were changed to reduce heights and density.

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"Part of this is going back to what helped create (a mix of housing types) back when we had housing abundance in the city and there was more supply than demand," he said.

It's also not unique in today's age. It's an emerging trend playing out across the country as housing costs rise, says Alex Horowitz, director of the nonpartisan Housing Policy Initiative for Pew Charitable Trusts.

Pew estimates the nation's housing shortage has risen to 4-7 million units. He explained to KSL.com that "restrictive zoning," a term to describe tight regulations for land uses, is believed to be a big reason for this. It's made homeownership difficult and driven up rents, which has spilled over into rising homelessness numbers.

But cities that have rewritten zoning laws have yielded promising results.

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Horowitz co-authored a paper last year that dove into the aftermath of a series of zoning changes Minneapolis enacted to improve building measures beginning in 2009. His team found from 2017 to 2022, the city's housing output tripled the rate of housing production for the rest of Minnesota.

The increase in supply helped improve affordability. Rents increased just 1% over those five years, compared to 14% for the rest of the state, helping homelessness to decline in the city even if it increased in the state. Allowing for housing in commercial corridors and reducing or eliminating parking requirements were two key aspects that drove growth in that case. That's also been the case for a handful of other cities he's studied.

This could explain the rising interest in zoning changes. Pew researchers found that from 2011 to 2016, only about one law addressing ways to make it easier to build housing was passed each year across the country. However, that rate jumped to 18 per year from 2017 to 2022 before skyrocketing to 48 laws a year the last two years.

Salt Lake Citys turn

Utah, Horowitz says, has passed "a couple of changes" to encourage more building. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox has also supported new construction to combat rising housing costs, but nothing has cooled Salt Lake City's and Utah's housing markets, yet.

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Zillow named Salt Lake City the 10th hottest market for 2025 despite having an average home value near $550,000. The state's average housing value has also doubled since 2017, while Pew found rents are up 38% during the same time.

"Even as there's a desire to buy homes, people are simply priced out because housing is just so scarce," Horowitz said.

Housing construction and other construction in Salt Lake City on May 30, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News

Norris says "big apartment buildings" account for nearly all the affordability options the city has constructed so far, but household sizes continue to shrink in residential neighborhoods where changes haven't been implemented.

He hopes reworking zones can improve the situation.

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His staff is recommending setback and height changes while removing flag lot restrictions and allowing single, duplex, triplex and fourplex structures or townhomes up to four units per lot. That could spark new starter homes to "broaden" affordability across the city, he said, which could help bring families back and reverse a decline in student enrollment.

A single-family dwelling next to a "small lot" duplex under a proposed change to R-1 zoning. | Salt Lake City Planning Division

Mixed-used measures aim to remove "conflicted and outdated" regulations and remove barriers to larger projects in more commercial areas. Planners said the city is also reviewing options for more mixed-used zones.

Salt Lake is also closely monitoring what other cities are doing as it forms a new zoning policy, hoping to avoid pitfalls as it makes a zoning map that is easier to read.

The next steps

The new zoning wouldn't force residents to make any changes. It just opens up new possibilities in neighborhoods.

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Salt Lake City's zoning changes also remain a work in progress. City planners reported mixed-use and residential zoning recommendations to the Salt Lake City Council in recent weeks, following a series of public feedback events before that. The City Council provided positive feedback to work on the formal language for a legislative intent to adopt changes, but it has yet to formally launch the process to implement them.

Salt Lake City Councilwoman Sarah Young, who represents Sugar House  one of the city's widest-ranging residential zoning neighborhoods  said she's heard mixed feedback from residents. Some, especially younger residents priced out of the market, want to move the needle faster. Others are concerned the city is moving too quickly with a "one-size-fits-all" approach instead of looking at neighborhoods individually.

For instance, resident Anne Isaacson approached the council on Feb. 4 to request that the city consider historic buildings in Central City when building mixed-used projects around them. Setbacks and building heights, she cautioned, could impact the residents living next door.

The council has also questioned if it could overstep the city's new affordable housing incentives before it can see if they're working.

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While those are sorted out, city leaders agree that "location matters" when it comes to planning out these projects, Young said. High density will continue in commercial areas and not in residential cores.

It's unclear when the zoning change process will begin, but the measure will eventually be picked up either as one zoning measure or bits and pieces of it. That's when it will go through a more traditional public process.

(Residents) are not too late to leave feedback, Young said. This is one where we will continue to host public comment sessions. Id invite all residents of Salt Lake to (participate) ... so we arrive at a solution thats representative of the full city.
James Carville, the former Democratic political consultant and current blowhard, is ready to give up. Surveying the current political landscape for The New York Times last week, he saw little his party could do to stop any of the destruction and chaos that President Donald Trump is wreaking. With minorities in both chambers of Congress, just three liberal justices on the Supreme Court, and a paucity of national leaders, there is little Democrats can do; for Carville, theres also little they should do.

With no clear leader to voice our opposition and no control in any branch of government, he wrote, its time for Democrats to embark on the most daring political maneuver in the history of our party: roll over and play dead. Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Elon Musk will quickly overstep, screw things up, and piss everybody off. Forget about all that #Resistance stuff; in Carvilles view, its best for Democrats to just sit back and let it happenthen swoop in and retake power.

Carville often acts like hes speaking forbidden truths. But his cartoonish mannerisms, deep Cajun accent, and penchant for colorful language can obscure his real talent: articulating conventional wisdom already held by Democratic leaders. Indeed, its been clear for quite some time that Democratic leaders very much agree with Carvilles strategy. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have hardly been manning the barricades. Theres little effort to stoke the growing resistance to the Trump administrations assault on the federal government, even as Republican town hall meetings have grown so tense that party leaders have advised their elected members to stop holding them altogether.

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So Democratic politicians are already following Carvilles advice, and it may well work. Trumps poll numberswhich were high only by his standards at the start of his termhave already begun to fall precipitously. Many of Trumps own voters have been caught up in the mass firings of federal workers that have defined the first six weeks of his term. Consumer confidence is waning, and there are signs that Trumps reckless economic program could tip the country into recession.

Trump will mess this all upindeed, he already isbecause thats what he does. Once that happens, Democrats will undoubtedly benefit, just as they did in 2020. But Carville and other party leaders are wrong when they think that is enough. The Democratic base needs something more: a plausible vision for how this all ends. That existed during Trumps first term, but not now.





Its easy to forget that Democrats have been here before. Eight years ago, when Trump first took power, the party was shell-shocked, unsure both about its own messageit was still torn between Bernie Sanderss populism and Hillary Clintons triangulationand the best way to defeat Trump. As is true today, party leaders had no legislative or judicial power. Unsure of what to do, they largely sat back and let the country recoil from the day-to-day chaos of Trumps first term.

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They were aided by two factors that dont exist now, however. The first was the mass mobilization that began even before Trump took power, and only spread as he issued orders such as the so-called Muslim travel ban. The death of that #Resistance has been overstatedwhich is ironic, given that Trumps horrific second term thus far is what people thought his first would bebut its undoubtedly less powerful today than it was at any point during Trumps first term. The second factor was the cloud that was already hanging over Trump when he entered the White House: Russia had clearly interfered in the 2016 election with Trumps encouragement. By the time special counsel Robert Mueller was appointed in mid-May 2017, Democrats had a plausible endgame that required no political capital. The special counsels investigation would find wrongdoing that would ultimately bring about the end of Trumps presidency.

Alas. The report Mueller ultimately delivered two years later was a subtle recommendation for impeachment that was damning but ultimately never produced a silver bullet. It was clear that Trump and his cronies had cheered on Russian meddling, but there was no evidence of a quid pro quo or, for that matter, an elaborate conspiracy. It didnt matter, though. By the time that report was released, the Democrats had retaken the House of Representatives, were actively investigating the Trump administration on several fronts, and were gearing up for a presidential primary. The Mueller investigation sated the base for the first two years of the Trump presidency because it offered what Democrats couldnt: a clear end to this mess.

Today, Democrats have nothing like it. Trump retook the White House saddled with many scandals, criminal convictions, and pending trials but without the same kind of baggage he carried in 2017. And anyway, he certainly never would allow a special counsel to investigate him for anything while hes president. Meanwhile, the Democratic Partys decision to sit back and wait for him to fail has created a vacuum. Voters are desperate for a path out of the daily horrors of this administration. Thus far, no one is giving them one. That only exacerbates the contrast that has defined the last six weeks. Trump and his allies are moving with astonishing speed to destroy everything they can. Democrats, meanwhile, are turgid at best; even the courts are moving faster than they are.

The Democrats might be out of power, but theyre not empty-handed. Trumps love affair with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is more open than ever; Americas abandonment of Ukraine and its European allies is shameful and deserving of investigation (once Democrats retake one chamber of Congress). The economy is teetering, prices remain stubbornly high, and every action the Trump administration has taken for the first six weeks seems designed to engineer a recession. Musks band of teenage groypers is wreaking havoc across the federal government. Musk and Trump have already engaged in multiple acts of brazen corruption and self-enrichment. These are all scandalsthe kinds of things that can bring down governments, and have done so in the past. And theyre out there in the open, for all to see. The Democrats can sit back and wait for these things to get worse, because they will get worse. But eventually they will need to show Americans what a better future looks like. Unfortunately, as we know from very recent history, we wont screw things up is not a lasting political message.
The Minnesota Wild expect star winger Kirill Kaprizov and top center Joel Eriksson Ek to return before the end of the regular season, general manager Bill Guerin told reporters before Sunday's game against the Boston Bruins at the X in St. Paul, Minn.

Both Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek are currently on injured reserve with lower-body injuries, but Guerin is making moves with the expectation that both will be able to return before season's end, likely ruling out the long-term injured reserve for either.

The move to trade with the Nashville Predators for forward Gustav Nyquist was in line with that expectation. The Predators ate half of Nyquist's contract, leaving just enough cap space to allow for Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek's returns in the regular season. That being said, Guerin does not have a timetable on when either player could come back.

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"I don't know. Like you said, there's no exact science. I can't tell you because what I tell you today might change tomorrow," Guerin told reporters. "Things change constantly. It's not like I'm gonna say, 'Oh, he's gonna be back 17 days from now.' And if he's not back 17 days from now, you guys are gonna be like, 'What happened?'

"So I don't know. I just don't know."

Kaprizov hasn't played since Jan. 26 against the Chicago Blackhawks. He underwent surgery for his lower-body injury in late January and was expected to be out at least four weeks, but Guerin previously said Kaprizov could be out longer than expected. Even now, Kaprizov is still tied for the team lead with 52 points (23 goals, 29 assists).

Eriksson Ek last played on Feb. 22 against the Detroit Red Wings and was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday. He reportedly could miss significantly more time than the required week on injured reserve. He has 24 points (9 goals, 15 assists) this season.

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The Wild reunited with Nyquist on Saturday by acquiring him from the Predators. Nyquist previously played three games for the Wild during the 2022-23 season, and he has 21 points (9 goals, 12 assists) in 57 games for Nashville this season.

"He fits," Guerin said.

Guerin also announced that defenseman Jonas Brodin will be week to week with a lower-body injury. Brodin is still expected to return this season. As for any other moves the Wild might make before Friday's trade deadline, Guerin said they'd likely need to be "penny in, penny out" as the team tries to conserve cap space for the potential returns of Kaprizov and Eriksson Ek. But he noted things can always change.
Crews in Polk County were still working to put out a wildfire Monday that forced dozens of families to evacuate over the weekend.

Channel 9s Dave Faherty learned a tree came down on some powerlines when wind gusts picked up Saturday.

Faherty was with firefighters from across western North Carolina Monday morning as they worked to strengthen the lines across the region.

SIMILAR COVERAGE: McDowell County residents back home after wildfire forced evacuation

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Crews said theyve been doing backburns around the homes in the area, trying to protect the folks west of Tryon.

More than 100 firefighters have been on the Melrose fire since Saturday.

Firefighters told Channel 9 their concern going forward was the very dry conditions and the front approaching mid-week that could bring some strong winds.

WSOC 7-Day Forecast

Faherty spoke with one homeowner who evacuated but is back home now.

The firefighters were absolutely magnificent, resident Mike Stritch said. The fire trail they cut around our house before they backburned was back-breaking work.

Becky Oliver told Channel 9 that as soon as she learned about the Melrose fire, she jumped into action to help a friends mom evacuate with her.

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I needed to get her out because I knew that she was not supposed to drive. And so I called my girlfriend, weve been friends since high school. I came over and helped get her stuff together so we could go, Oliver said.

As of 5:30 p.m. Monday, crews said the fire was 63 percent contained, and all evacuations have been lifted except for homes from the 3000 block to the 3910 block of Highway 176.

Firefighters said no homes have been damaged so far and the evacuations were voluntary.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

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In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

In western North Carolina, residents were evacuated Saturday as Polk County officials confirmed a fire in the area reached about 500 acres in size.

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In this photo released by the Horry County Fire Rescue, smoke is seen from fires in Horry County, S.C., on Saturday, March 1, 2025. (Horry County Fire Rescue via AP)

Crews work to contain a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Sunday, March 2, 2025, where residents were ordered to evacuate several neighborhoods. (WMBF-TV via AP)

People move from an area where crews work to contain a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Sunday, March 2, 2025, where residents were ordered to evacuate several neighborhoods. (WMBF-TV via AP)

Firefighters pause to pray in front of the Carolina Forest Community Church Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Myrtle Beach, S.C., as they work to contain a fire in the Carolina Forest. (Janet Morgan/The Post And Courier via AP)

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Horry County firefighters set up fire hoses as they monitor the Carolina Forest wildfire in the Covington Lakes neighborhood, Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Myrtle Beach, S.C. (Gavin McIntyre//The Post And Courier via AP)

A helicopter drops water to help contain a fire in the Carolina Forest area west of the coastal resort city of Myrtle Beach, S.C., Sunday, March 2, 2025, where residents were ordered to evacuate several neighborhoods. (WMBF-TV via AP)

Planes fill bladders with water from the Intracoastal Waterway and empty the water on hot spots in the Carolina Forest wildfire Sunday, March 2, 2025, in Myrtle Beach, S.C. (Janet Morgan/The Post And Courier via AP)

In South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency over the weekend as crews battled wildfires in the Carolina Forest.

By Monday, officials said the flames had burned about 1,600 acres around Myrtle Beach.

As of late Sunday night, the South Carolina Forestry Commission said 30 percent of the fire was contained.

READ MORE: South Carolina governor declares state of emergency to support wildfire response

Crews said some of the large flames got very close to homes in the area.

Video showed some residents running down the street as smoke filled the sky, The Associated Press reports.

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By late Sunday afternoon, The AP adds, the fire department announced that Carolina Forest evacuees could return home.

WATCH BELOW: FEMA homes sit unoccupied despite urgent need for housing in western North Carolina
Photo courtesy of the South Carolina Forestry Commission

Following multiple wildfires in the Carolinas over the weekend, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins plans to visit the affected areas on Friday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced on Monday.

Crews fought several forest fires in North Carolina, the largest of which was at Uwharrie National Forest at around 400 acres, according to Newsweek. Located primarily in Montgomery County in the south central portion of the state, Uwharrie is the smallest of North Carolinas four national forests.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins speaks during her Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee confirmation hearing on Jan. 23, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Kayla Bartkowski/Getty Images)

The U.S. Forest Service responded to wildfires in the states other three national forests as well: Pisgah in the Appalachian Mountains, Croatan on the Atlantic Coast, and Nantahala in southwestern North Carolina.

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Officials say significant debris from Hurricane Helene has made much of western North Carolina vulnerable to more wildfires this spring, according to the Asheville Citizen-Times. Specific causes of each fire have yet to be announced.

The brave men and women of the U.S. Forest Service began responding immediately to the fires in the Carolinas, Rollins said in a statement. We will ensure they have the resources, personnel, and support they need to swiftly put out the fires. They are working closely with state and local partners, and we are grateful for all the firefighters working on the frontlines.

Specific details of the trip have yet to be released. Its contingent on conditions permitting.

The Trump administration recently terminated the careers of thousands of U.S. Forest Service employees as part of the federal worker layoffs last month to cut costs. As a result, fewer people and less resources are available to help prevent and fight wildfires, according to the Associated Press.

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Its a move that comes after deadly fires in the Los Angeles area at the start of the year. President Donald Trumps first trip after returning to the White House was to storm-damaged areas in western North Carolina as well as torched parts of California, NC Newsline previously reported.

Some of the approximately 3,400 workers who received termination notices have had their firings rescinded, according to the Asheville Citizen-Times. Its unclear exactly how many.

The U.S. Forest Service maintains more than 1 million acres of forest land in the Tar Heel State.

North Carolina Emergency Management asked residents to avoid starting outdoor fires in a Sunday post on social media.

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We arent out of the woods yet NC. Do you[r] part. Do not burn today, the post read. We will see lighter winds today, but it is still very dry, with breezy conditions, and low relative humidity, which is what fire loves. High fire danger still exists across the state.

In neighboring South Carolina, Republican Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Sunday as the fires scorched thousands of acres and forced people to evacuate.

There were 175 wildfires impacting 4,200 acres across South Carolina as of Sunday, according to McMasters office.

With rain expected midweek, conditions may improve. However, the U.S. Forest Service is fully prepared for an active fire season in the south and will continue to work closely with our partners to respond effectively, the agency said in a statement.
Dozens of wildfires raged across the Carolinas on Sunday, with dry conditions and gusty winds fueling more than 175 wildfires in South Carolina.

The largest of the brush fires erupted Saturday in Carolina Forest, a community west of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. The fire exploded in size overnight, forcing residents in at least half a dozen neighborhoods in the area to flee their homes early Sunday.

By 4:25 p.m., some South Carolina residents who were forced to evacuate were allowed back in their homes, Horry County Fire Rescue said in a statement. The wildfire was estimated to be approximately 1,600 acres and 30% contained as of 7:30 p.m. Sunday, per the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

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So, will the wildfires reach Myrtle Beach, a popular vacation sport for those in Ohio and other surrounding states? Here's what to know.

Has Myrtle Beach been impacted by the wildfires?

Myrtle Beach, a coastal city home to nearly 40,000 people, has not had any damage from the large blaze spreading in eastern South Carolina, though it's close enough to see the smoke.

The blaze has scorched over 1,200 acres in Carolina Forest, a community just west of Myrtle Beach, where residents in several neighborhoods evacuated their homes. The Myrtle Beach Fire Department is one of more than 30 agencies helping Horry County Fire Rescue battle the blaze.

The National Weather Service reported an increased fire danger through Sunday evening due to dry vegetation and lack of rainfall, with Tuesday night being the area's next chance for rain.

U.S. Army Soldiers with Company A, 111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59 Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard prepared two Blackhawk Helicopters to assist the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources pic.twitter.com/O9iUTUT83t  SC National Guard (@SCNationalGuard) March 2, 2025

Christopher Cann and Thao Nguyen from USA TODAY contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Have the wildfires reached Myrtle Beach? What to know
South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency because of the ongoing wildfires across the Palmetto State.

The latest declaration follows a statewide burn ban that was issued Saturday by the South Carolina Forestry Commission.

The governors executive order said the burn ban will remain in effect until further notice. The ban prohibits all outdoor burning, including yard debris, prescribed burning and campfires.

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The State Fire Marshal said more than 175 wildfires have burned 4,200 acres across the state as of noon Sunday. The wildfires are burning in Horry, Spartanburg, Oconee, Union and Pickens counties primarily because of dry, windy conditions, according to the release. Dangerous conditions have been exacerbated by significant and shifting winds, which have caused numerous existing fires to spread and complicated the containment of new wildfires, the governor said in his executive order.

Other factors increasing the wildfire threat includes low humidity across the state coupled with drying fuels resulting from the lack of significant rain, as well as strong winds, according to the S.C. Forestry Commission.

While a majority of the current wildfire activity is concentrated in the Pee Dee region, the rest of the state is experiencing a dramatic uptick in wildfires, straining the capacity of Forestry Commission firefighters and local emergency response personnel to respond, S.C. Forestry Commission Forest Protection Chief Darryl Jones said in news release.

McMaster said that declaring a state of emergency enhances ongoing emergency response efforts as firefighters work to contain the wildfires affecting various regions.

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This State of Emergency ensures that our first responders, who are working tirelessly and risking their lives to protect our communities from these wildfires, have the resources they need, McMaster said in the release. Dangerous wildfire conditions require that a statewide burning ban remain in effect. ... Those who violate this ban will be subject to criminal prosecution.

The state of emergency allows South Carolina to proactively prepare for the potential impacts and take timely precautions to protect and preserve property, critical infrastructure, natural resources, communities, and the general safety and welfare of the people of the state, according to the executive order.

No evacuations were ordered by the governor. The executive order leaves any decisions about closing schools, colleges and any government buildings up to county officials.

In past, declaring the state of emergency has allowed South Carolina to get federal emergency assistance, and it allows the National Guard to stage equipment and personnel and allows agencies to suspend any regulations that could hinder emergency operations.

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South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson said that the states law against price gouging is in effect since McMaster declared a state of emergency.

We could see normal price increases, and those are not considered price gouging under our law, Wilson said in a news release. But we may see businesses and individuals looking to unfairly take advantage of the situation through price gouging of food, gasoline, lodging, and other commodities as defined by the statute. By our law, thats a criminal violation and an unfair trade practice.

South Carolina residents are encouraged to call 911 to report any immediate threats.
The Williamson County Animal Center has received a $50,000 grant to launch a new canine behavior training class that officials hope will deter the number of pet surrenders they receive from three Middle Tennessee counties.

The Friends of the Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC) group recently announced the grant, awarded by the PEDIGREE Foundation. It will support a collective effort between the WCAC, Cheatham County Animal Control, Maury County Animal Shelter and Snooty Giggles Dog Rescue and provide training for 400 at-risk dogs in Williamson, Cheatham and Maury Counties, officials noted.

Nearly one-quarter of the dogs brought to us in 2023 for surrender that had an explanation of why were due to behavioral or other issues that may have been resolved with proper training, Williamson County Animal Center (WCAC) Director Ondrea Johnson said of the new initiative, noting that its focus will be on retraining dogs in the hopes of diverting people from surrendering them.

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Johnson's group regularly gives to the animal shelter for programs, adoptions and medical services needed for the animals.

But the pet populations at shelters like the one in Williamson County continue to grow.

Non-profit leaders like Johnson say shelters and rescues across the U.S. are experiencing over-crowdedness and increased length of stay due to insufficient adoption rates. Because of this, they are increasingly investing in resources that keep animals out of their care to begin with, she said.

Group classes and one-on-one sessions are backed by the new grant funding.

But, the grant-funded classes and sessions are not open to public registration, officials said, noting that the participating shelters and groups in each county will reach out and invite selected pet owners to join based on interactions they have had with families considering surrender.

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The Maury County Animal Shelter recently posted more information about how it is selecting people for training via social media.

"If you are an owner on our wait list and your reason is a behavior issue, or you will be scheduling to surrender for a behavior issue, please email us with the information about the issue," the post read. It also said the new program was for all dogs in the county. "They do not have to have been adopted from the shelter.

"This is not basic obedience training but rather an option to work with you and your dog on specific behaviors that will keep your pet in your home. Please share this important new option available to Maury County residents and their dogs."

More information about the program can be found at FriendsofWCAC.org.

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The Williamson County shelter, 1006 Grigsby Hayes Court in Franklin, is open to the public from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and closed on Sunday.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Williamson Animal Center to offer new dog training. What to know
Grab your kites and put away your lawn furniture, Boise, its going to be a windy one.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Monday, with the strongest gusts expected between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Winds will likely hit areas south and east of Boise the hardest, National Weather Service meteorologist Stephen Parker told the Idaho Statesman.

Parker predicted that southeast Ada County and Mountain Home will experience sustained winds between 25 and 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph.

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Boise wont see wind quite that strong, but it could be enough to knock down tree limbs, according to the NWS.

Advisory means this is not going to be life-threatening as long as you take basic common-sense precautions, Parker said. If you have an empty trash can or some lawn furniture, it might get blown around. But this is not the kind of thing that is going to take shingles off your roof or anything like that.

Parker said the winds will be caused by a cold front moving into Idaho on Sunday night.

Some fronts kind of just ooze on through, but then 12 hours later, the winds really pick up, and thats what this ones going to be, Parker said by phone Sunday.

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Conditions may also bring light rain showers on Sunday and then again Wednesday, Parker said.

Nice weather is expected to return by the weekend, with sunshine and temperatures returning to the upper 50s.
Mar. 3HUNTSVILLE  Windham School District, serving students incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, recently unveiled its 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, a comprehensive, five-year roadmap designed to drive the district's goals and initiatives forward.

Alongside this plan, the district introduced a refreshed vision and mission statement, highlighting the commitment to being a leader in education, while fostering lifelong student excellence and motivation.

Windham's newly refined vision and mission better reflect what the district strives toward daily.

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Vision: To be a leader in education by inspiring excellence and transforming lives.

Mission: To guide, motivate and empower students through innovative educational pathways. These changes certify that the district prioritizes the academic, career and individual growth of students to assist them in becoming the best version of themselves.

"Windham is excited to implement an improved plan, vision and mission that focuses on advancing the goals of the district not only as it relates to our educators and students, but also for the communities we serve," Windham Superintendent Kristina J. Hartman said in a news release. "Our 2025-2029 Strategic Plan sets a bold course for the future, reaffirming our commitment to excellence in education and ensuring that Windham remains a leader in empowering students to achieve their full potential."

Windham's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan is dedicated to the delivery of high-quality instruction to students while supporting their transition into apprenticeship, postsecondary education programs or employment. To achieve this, the district aims to recruit and retain highly qualified teachers and staff, enhance the integration of technology in classrooms and strengthen effective communication. Windham plans to accomplish these goals through continual program improvement and annual progress evaluation.

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The updated Strategic Plan champions improved internet connectivity for students and educators, increasing technology usage and outcomes in the classroom and workforce as the intended result.

Additionally, Windham will maximize pre- and post-reentry employment resources for students and graduates by implementing employment and career-centered strategies within the classroom and the community. Furthermore, the district plans to increase the teacher fill rate, currently at 80%.

Finally, the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan outlines Windham's goal to enhance communication at the student, internal and stakeholder levels. This will be accomplished by focusing on person-centered language, improving the flow of communication and promoting awareness at the governmental and community levels.

"Our goal is to foster clear and open communication on all levels, ensuring everyone feels heard and supported," Windham Division Director of Instruction Kevin Sawnick said in the release. "Not only that, but by placing an emphasis on person-centered language, we create a more respectful environment and empower our students to see their potential and take meaningful steps toward achieving their goals."

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Windham's implementation of its 2025-2029 Strategic Plan represents a significant rise in educational excellence across all campuses. By focusing on innovative initiatives, the district will enhance the quality of programs offered to students. With a steadfast dedication to providing future-focused education, Windham is poised to create lasting, positive impacts on students, their families and communities throughout the state, the release said.

View Windham's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan at the district website.
CRAWFORD COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) 

Crawford County Sheriff Dale McCullick reported that a lengthy investigation into a burglary led to the arrest of two individuals on Saturday

According to a Facebook post from the Crawford County Sheriffs Office, authorities executed a search warrant at a property located at 53604 CTH S in the Township of Seneca, where stolen items were believed to be hidden.

Officials report that 44-year-old Charles Kirch, and 42-year-old Angela Ziegler who live at the location, are suspected of burglarizing a cabin and stealing an estimated $30,000 worth of various property. The stolen items included firearms, tools, electronics, furniture, a wood-burning stove, a ladder, and more.

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Wisconsin sheriffs department arrests two suspects for child porn and bestiality charges

During the search, law enforcement officers reportedly found several stolen items, including a sawed-off shotgun, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a stolen rifle. Kirch and Ziegler were arrested and taken to the Crawford County Jail.

Kirch faces multiple charges, including burglary, theft, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a sawed-off shotgun, and bail-jumping. Ziegler is charged with burglary, theft, possession of a sawed-off shotgun, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and bail-jumping.

The investigation was assisted by the Vernon County Sheriffs Office, Richland County Sheriffs Office, and Crawford County Highway Department.

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No further information has been provided.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
On 1 March Haitis Prime Ministerannounced several gang members had been killed in a police (PNdH) operation in the Delmas neighbourhood in the capital, Port-au-Prince  the stronghold of prominent gang leader

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HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WHLT)  A woman was arrested in Hattiesburg for allegedly shooting her husband.

The incident occurred in the 1700 block of Second Terrace just before 2:40 p.m. on Sunday, March 2.

Suspect arrested in Mississippi for attempted fraud scheme

Police said the male victim stated that he had been shot by his wife, Brandi Jackson, 43, following a fight. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment and is in stable condition.

Brandi Jackson (Courtesy Forrest County Jail)

Jackson was arrested and charged with domestic violence-aggravated assault. She was booked into the Forrest County Jail.

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NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH)  A woman died after crashing her car in the Parade Plaza in New London Sunday morning.

At about 12:37 a.m., New London Police said they responded to the scene near State Street and Bank Street for a single-car accident.

Officers said they found the driver, 41-year-old Joslyn Wakefield, injured in the heavily damaged car.

The New London Fire Department assisted in extricating Wakefield from the vehicle, then she was transported to a nearby hospital.

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Police say Wakefield died at the hospital and the investigation remains open.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  A city woman charged with causing a 2023 traffic crash that killed a woman and injured three other people pleaded Monday to several charges in Mahoning County Common Pleas Court.

Kyashia Madison, 29, entered guilty pleas before Judge Maureen Sweeney to charges of aggravated vehicular homicide, a first-degree felony; three counts of aggravated vehicular assault, a second-degree felony; and first-degree misdemeanor counts of endangering children and operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.

Madison made her pleas the day her trial was to begin.

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Sentencing is set for March 13.

She is accused of causing an Aug. 16, 2023 crash at Victor and Commonwealth avenues that took the life of Denasia Douglas, 19, and injured three others.

Douglas was a passenger in a car that a car driven by Madison collided with.

Madison is free on $100,000 bond pending her sentencing.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
A woman was taken at gunpoint in a carjacking Sunday afternoon in St. Paul and released a short while later.

Shortly before 1:30 p.m. officers were called to Herbert Street and Rose Avenue East on a report of a carjacking in which a woman was taken against her will along with the vehicle, according to Nikki Muehlhausen, public information officer with the St. Paul Police Department.

A woman was soon spotted driving the vehicle near 7th Street and Arcade Street, Muehlhausen said. At one point, a woman, believed to be the woman forced against her will to go with the carjackers, got out of the car. The stolen vehicle then accelerated away from squad cars that began a pursuit.

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After a short pursuit, the car thief crashed into another vehicle at 2 p.m. at Maryland Avenue over the 35E bridge.

Police took a man and another woman, who was in the car at the time, into custody. No one was injured, but the man is being treated at an area hospital for an unrelated condition.

The crime remains under investigation.

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(FOX40.COM)  Police are investigating the death of a woman whose body was found in a tent on Sunday afternoon, the Sacramento Police Department said.

According to police, the Sacramento Fire Department reached out to police around 3 p.m. about a body near Bercut Drive and Bannon Street.

Video Above: FBI says violent crime dropped in 2023

The Sacramento Police Department said that homicide detectives and crime scene investigators processed the scene, canvassed the area, and interviewed witnesses.

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The incident is still under investigation and authorities have not yet determined if the death was a homicide, police said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News.
A woman was hospitalized after authorities say she was stung by a scorpion at Bostons International Airport on Sunday night.

The 40-year-old woman was stung while retrieving her luggage in the baggage claim area of customs in Terminal E around 7:30 p.m., according to Massachusetts State Police.

The woman, whose name hasnt been released, was rushed to a local hospital. There was no immediate word on her condition.

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It wasnt immediately clear where the scorpion originated or how it got loose in the airport, and it has not yet been located.

Scorpions are commonly thought of as desert dwellers, but they also live in Brazilian forests, British Columbia, North Carolina, and even the Himalayas, National Geographic noted.

Scorpions also have as many as 45 different toxins in their venom, according to the San Diego Zoo.

The incident at Logan remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
A woman was killed and her three children were injured Friday when another motorist crashed into their vehicle in Odessa, deputies said.

The crash happened about 3:40 p.m. when a motorist heading north on Gunn Highway near Dolce Vita Lane crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with a vehicle occupied by a woman and her three children, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

The mother was killed and the children were seriously injured.

A sheriffs office spokesperson said Monday that the crash was under investigation and no other information was immediately available for release.
BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. (WSPA)  One person has been arrested after deputies said she stabbed a woman in the face outside of a gas station.

According to Buncombe County Sheriffs Office, deputies were called on Monday to the Stop N Go on Sweeten Creek Road for a welfare check on Friday. At the gas station they located a woman suffering from multiple stab wounds to the face.

Deputies also identified and arrested Taranthea Carson, who has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. Carson is being held in the Buncombe County Detention Center on a $10,000 bond.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.
On 1 March Guyanas Presidentdenounced an incursion by a Venezuelan armed patrol ship in the latest escalation of tensions between Venezuela and Guyana.

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CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS)  Reactions from around the world continue after what started as an amicable meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy turned contentious Friday.

Dr. Chris Cooper from Western Carolina University joined Queen City News Now to explain what the exchange means and how we move forward.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Getting to the Knesset caucus room of the Labor Party is not easy. Labor is now the smallest faction in the Knesset, and its office is in what looks like a storage hallway. Its hard not to see this as a metaphor for how the mighty partyIsraels founding and long-ruling political party for around a quarter-centuryhas fallen.

Its here where I interviewed Yair Golan, head of a new party called The Democrats, a merger of Labor and its more dovish ally, Meretz. Indeed, the 2022 election was when the Labor Party barely made the threshold, which is 3.25 percent of the national vote, and Meretz missed it by a few thousand votes. There were failed efforts to merge the two parties for that election. Now its clearly a necessity.

Golan is a former IDF deputy chief of staff. A reserve major general, he was also commander of the Home Front Command (in charge of protecting civilians in emergency situations) and of the Northern Command (in charge of overseeing security in the northern part of the country). He was deputy minister of economy in the Bennett-Lapid 2021 government for Meretz and served as a member of the Knesset for Meretz from 2019 to 2022. He ran previously for Meretz party leader and lost, partly because the dovish party didnt want to be led by a military figure. But times have changed. Now, even the left understands that it needs military bona fides in a country still deeply traumatized by October 7.

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On the day that Hamas attacked inside Israel, Golan put on his uniform as soon as he heard what was happening and reported to the Home Front Command. He received calls from worried parents about their children hiding out from Hamas terrorists on the Nova Music Festival grounds. Consulting Google Maps, he headed in that direction and rescued three young men. I was completely alone with a rifle, he said. But he didnt hesitate: You dont stay and do nothing. You dont wait for commands  people can change the picture, do something positive in time of huge trauma.

He reentered politics, he told me, because I think that the main and the most important issue concerning the destiny of Israel is the following: annexation or separation? Where are we heading? Its very important to define the problem. Its not about two-state solution, three-state solution. We could think about all kinds of solutions. We know that the human imagination has no limits. The real question is what do we want?

Annexation, favored by many in the current ultra-right-wing Netanyahu government, would mean officially extending Israels borders throughout the entire occupied Palestinian population. In that scenario, there would be two optionsto give full democracy to the entire population (something the right-wing government would never do) or to then have an apartheid state with two completely different sets of laws for Jews and Palestinians under the new borders. Separation, on the other hand, would mean Israel relinquishing its 58-year occupation of the Palestinian land taken in the 1967 war.

Annexation, Golan believes, would bring with it the destruction, a complete destruction of Israel. And the crazy idea that we will wake up to a shiny morning and there will be no Palestinians between the river to the sea  He laughs as he lets the sentence trail off.

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Its not easy to be someone who supports a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in postOctober 7 Israel. A corrupt, messianic, antidemocratic government baits the left at every turn. A government-endorsed TV news channel puts Fox News to shame. Started in the Netanyahu era under the guise of opening up television to new points of view, Channel 14 is a far-right religious channel that has only pro-government spokespeople on it. There are daily governmental efforts to shutter cultural and educational programming. Calls for revenge abound, as does the feeling, especially among the hostage families and their network of supporters, that the country is simply broken. It shouldnt be discounted how the horrors of that day and the aftermath have shaken many from the withered peace camp to their core.

Meanwhile, the center partiesYair Lapids Yesh Atid and Benny Gantzs National Unionare slowly losing support. Most polls for the last two years have shown a coalition government comprising anyone but a Netanyahu-led Likud with his far-right and ultra-Orthodox partners winning over the current regime. Such a coalition would be a mishmash of left, center, and non-Likud right parties. In such an amalgam, the Democrats will not be the largest party, but they will surely provide the ideological spine.

Even in an Israel torn apart by massive ideological divides and a 16-year rule by a demagogue, Golans new party has either held steady at least nine mandates (the Israeli term for seats) or risen recently to a high of 14 seats in the 120-seat Knesset.

Golan thinks he knows why: What we have here in Israel, its not about right and left. Its between a Zionist liberal and democratic approach versus a messianic approach, a corrupted right. The messianic right is so deeply unattached to reality, exactly like those very irresponsible persons that initiated the Bar Kochba rebellion of 132. (Throughout our conversation, Golan not only sprinkles in historic examples from previous centuries but quotes biblical tractates to make his point about the inherently liberal nature of Judaism.)

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The only way to cope with it, he says, is by bringing a very solid ideological concept. He has no patience for the center parties, not mentioning namesbut clearly meaning those led by Lapid (currently the official opposition leader) and Gantz, who was once seen as a strong challenger to Netanyahu but whose star fades daily. The terrible notion of the extreme center in Israel is: We have no intention to say anything meaningful. Wake in the morning  and we follow the wind. We dont need wind finders. We need a compass.

He continues: We need to build a new political camp. In this goal, he includes the 21 percent of Israeli citizens (within the internationally recognized demarcation borderlines for Israel) who are Arab: The Arabs live with us. So, by law and by God, we are commanded to provide them equality.

He minces no words about Netanyahu. He calls him a criminal who is a danger to his own people and says: Basically, Netanyahu is the same person as Chavez in Venezuela, Bolsonaro in Brazil, Orban in Hungary. Its a kind of disease that encompasses the world, this populist wave.

In contrast, he says, I want to bring something good to the world, I want to do the right thing here. We have a huge struggle between those who think that Israel should be a liberal democratic state and those who think that Israel should be a kind of authoritarian theocratic state. The government is autocratic. The fact that so many Israelis still dont understand it is outrageous  I know that I know how to lead. I have much experience in leading people in times of emergencies, in time of struggle.

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Meanwhile, the war in Gaza continues on a low burn because Netanyahu  doesnt want to free the hostages because he knows that by finishing the war he will need to face all his political problems. So, without saying it formally, he signed the following deal with the messianic partieskeep the dream of annexation alive, the dream of rebuilding  settlements inside the Gaza Strip.

He embraces the efforts of the Arab states surrounding Israel, which Netanyahu dismisses. We need to build inside the Gaza Strip an alternative to Hamas with the Palestinian Authority, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, with any other moderate Muslim country, he says. To fight effectively against Hamas, its not enough to kill the militants. By the doctrine of counterinsurgency warfare, its clear that on the one hand, you need to find the militants, and on the other hand, you need to capture the hearts and the minds of the general population. We did nothing to build an alternative to Hamas. This is outrageous.

Of Donald Trumps plan to empty Gaza of Gazans, Golan says: The American president has mentioned an idea. But theres a huge gap between a general idea and a true plan. I would say even more than that, lets assume that 100,000, 200,000, 500,000, half a million people will emigrate out of the Gaza Strip. So then we will need to cope with just 1.5 million people living on 365 square kilometers (141 square miles), one of the densest places on earth, an area with much infrastructure problems.

The important thing now, he says, is to build an alternative to Hamas. If you have this regional project, then you can expand the cooperation between these countries to cope with all forms of radical Islam in the region, he says. And we will face more radical Islam challenges from Iran and from Turkey. And the fact that because of this extreme right-wing government, we are not able to do something positive for the sake of Israel, its outrageous.

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He emphasizes: We need a new political language. You know the right used to call itself the national camp. They are not the national camp. We are the national camp. They destroy the nation. They are a threat to the nation.

I ask him to define what being a Zionist means to him. Its a toxic word among many progressives outside of Israel today. If you ask me what is to be a Zionist? It is the modern movement of the Jewish people. We are the people who deal with Tikkun Olam, he comments, a Hebrew phrase that is central especially to liberal Judaism, meaning repair the world. He continues: You cannot conduct Tikkun Olam without being a democrat, liberal, and being a Jew at the same time. We want a better world. This is the notion on which I emphasize all my efforts, and I put in the center of my activity the single human being.

For sure, opponents will continue to bait Golan and the party as out of touch. Still, its a party led by a former general who believes there should be a Palestinian state next to Israel. Its happened before, of course, but this is a wretched time for liberal ideas. He has a clear road in mind, to fight the current government in the courts, in the political arena, and in the streets, to call for new elections as soon as possible. Golan is a long-distance runner.
York County Coroners Office is investigating a death at Piedmont Medical Center after an incident at Meritor, Inc. on Friday.

The Coroners Office responded to the Piedmont Medical Center to investigate the death of Stewart Campbell.

The 35-year-old from Sharon, S.C. died on the floor. He was transported to the medical center from Meritor, Inc. in York County, according to the Coroners Office.

READ: 1 dead after shooting in York County, deputies say

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The office said it will be conducting an autopsy and toxicology later this week.

The death is under investigation, the York County Coroners Office said.

No further information has been provided at this time.

WATCH: 1 dead after shooting in York County, deputies say
Middle school students at Travis Intermediate School, located in North Texas, allegedly applied tattoos to each other using temporary ink and the same needle. Now, the teachers who were assigned to the classrooms where the incidents took place have been suspended pending the results of an investigation.

In a social media post, Greenville Independent School District (ISD) shared that an investigation was launched immediately due to health and safety concerns. The district administration strongly condemns the alleged activities and will not tolerate such conduct, Greenville ISD said according to local outlet KWTX.

The suspended teachers are being examined by the district to see if further disciplinary action will need to be taken. The administration also stated that it will work with law enforcement officials to identify students who were involved with the tattooing

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The district shall abide by state law, district policy, and the districts Student Code of Conduct and discipline protocols during this process...student safety is our highest priority, the social media post continued.

Ashley Armstrong, who is the mother of an 11-year old boy who participated, told Fox 4 News that this behavior should have never taken place.

How is it that these kids are getting tattoos in class and not one teacher noticed it? Armstrong asked. Her son, Jordan, now has scabs from tattoos that say I heart my lord and JC on his hands.

He got punishment for it, Armstrong continued. He knows better. He shouldnt have done it in the first place. She also shared thatmore than a dozen other parents have contacted her to say their children were also tattooed.

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The district stated it will conduct a thorough review of Travis Intermediate School to make sure the incident was isolated and that it wont ever happen again.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  Two Youngstown men were sentenced in federal court for charges relating to distributing cocaine across state lines.

Read next: 2 dogs found dead in bag on boat in Warren

Brothers Ruben Noel Sanchez, 29, and Rubel Sanchez, 22, were sentenced in a federal court in Pittsburgh last Wednesday.

Ruben was sentenced to a total of 13 years of imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.

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Rubel was sentenced to 10 years of prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.

According to information presented to the Court, the Sanchez brothers were part of an organized drug trafficking group that shipped kilogram quantities of cocaine from Puerto Rico, often mailing drug parcels through the U.S. Postal Service to co-conspirators responsible for selling the cocaine in Western Pennsylvania, Youngstown and elsewhere.

The defendants were among 17 individuals from Lawrence County, Pennsylvania; Puerto Rico; and Youngstown, indicted in March 2024 for violating federal narcotics, firearms and racketeering laws by conspiring to distribute cocaine throughout Western Pennsylvania and Youngstown.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN)  With Pope Francis still at a hospital in Rome, the Vatican says he is resting and is in stable condition.

Local theology instructor Phil Pillin has looked up to him throughout his entire academic career. He shared how the pope has been a role model for him during his journey.

Pope Francis has been to Pontiff my entire academic high education academic journey  so all my undergrad, my masters, and Im finishing my PhD here very soon, Pillin said. Its very personal to me in a sense that hes been the pope my entire academic career. Ive looked up to him, Ive used his work in work that Ive created and worked on. So, it means a lot. Hes been a great role model.

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Pillin says he hopes the Pope will recover soon and encourages people to keep him in their thoughts and prayers.

Tino DiCenso contributed to this report.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
It is with deep sadness that I share the unexpected passing of Dr. Gaynell Young, our School Board President, and a founding member of our school district. Dr. Young dedicated her life to the service of our schools, students, and community, always leading with integrity, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

For over twenty years, Dr. Young was a guiding force in shaping the vision of our district, advocating for the success of every student, and ensuring that our schools remained places of learning, opportunity, and growth. Beyond her leadership, Dr. Young was a friend and mentor to many, always offering a listening ear, words of encouragement, and a deep belief in the power of education.

As we mourn this profound loss, we also celebrate the incredible impact Dr. Young had on our district and the legacy she leaves behind.

Please keep Dr. Youngs family and loved ones in your thoughts during this difficult time.
(Bloomberg) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said hes willing to meet again with Donald Trump if the US president invites him, but signaled that another White House encounter would have to be serious for him to make the trip.

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Fridays clash with Trump and Vice President JD Vance left attempts to get the US administration on Kyivs side in tatters. It also set off a scramble among Europeans to get the two leaders back to the table as they tried to demonstrate broad support for Ukraine at a security summit in London.

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We are worthy of an equal dialog, Zelenskiy said on Sunday after attending the summit. If the US president invites him for a constructive dialog, to solve real problems, for serious issues and real, decisive actions and answers  I will arrive, he said.

Despite his defiant tone, Zelenskiy said that his country was ready to accept a natural resources deal with the US. The accord was left unsigned after the Oval Office bust-up that marked the most serious crisis between Ukraine and its biggest military supporter since Russias full-scale invasion began three years ago.

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Holding such a conversation in public wasnt a good thing for either the US or Ukraine, the Ukrainian president said, declining a reporter request to switch to English to avoid any misinterpretation. But in a clear attempt to turn the page on the dispute, he added: I am convinced that the situation will pass and more important things are ahead.

European leaders led by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron spent the weekend in a diplomatic whirlwind as they tried to mend the break with the US. They also fast-tracked efforts to improve their own defense capabilities in the wake of Trumps outreach to Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine  potentially over their heads.

Their hope is to persuade Trump to stay engaged with Europe and Ukraine before his peace talks with Putin advance further.

The UK and France are seeking to build what Starmer called a coalition of the willing to participate in peacekeeping forces and help reassure Kyiv about the durability of any peace. Britain, France and one or two other countries will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting, Starmer said Sunday.

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Macron told Le Figaro newspaper after the gathering that the EU should provide 200 billion ($208 billion) to boost its military capabilities, a topic that will be discussed by leaders at an emergency summit in Brussels on March 6.

But some disagreements have also started to emerge. Macron told Le Figaro that he and Starmer are working on a plan to reach a one-month truce in Ukraine that would include air and maritime operations as well as securing energy infrastructure.

A British official disputed that such a truce had been agreed to as part of the plan, adding that there hasnt been any agreement on a timeline for a ceasefire.

In his interview, Macron said that soldiers would only be deployed on the ground in a second phase  there will be no European troops on Ukrainian soil in the coming weeks  and that the areas he outlined for a possible truce would be verifiable if there were breaches. He acknowledged it would be very difficult to do so along the eastern frontline.

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Kremlin Responds

The Kremlin, in its first official response, said on Monday that the unprecedented flare-up at the White House between Trump and Zelenskiy showed that Western unity is starting to fall apart.

Zelenskiys stance means it will be much harder to reach a settlement of the Ukraine conflict, said Putins spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, according to Interfax. The Kyiv regime and Zelenskiy do not want peace, they want the continuation of the war, he said.

In this situation, Washingtons efforts and Moscows readiness are clearly not enough, as a very important element is missing, Peskov said. Speaking about Putins reaction, the Kremlin spokesman said: He took into account what happened.

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Zelenskiy responded on Monday, writing on his Telegram channel, that those who want talks do not strike people on purpose with ballistic missiles. More than 1,050 drones, almost 1,300 bombs and more than 20 missiles were launched at Ukraine last week, he said.

We need more strength of the world to force Russia end the strikes, Zelenskiy wrote. Justice must prevail.

The debacle in Washington hinted at the personal animus between Zelenskiy and Trump, and quickly escalated the US political assaults on Ukraines president. US Vice President JD Vance branded Zelenskiy disrespectful and suggested that his intransigence, rather than Moscows aggression, was the impediment to a US-brokered ceasefire with Russia.

Zelenskiy, though, has no plans to leave office, according to his aides. His political future is a matter for the Ukrainian people and no one else, he said, telling UK media on Sunday that given what is going on, given the support, simply replacing me will not be simple.

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While Zelenskiy recognized Ukraines dependence on US support, expressed his thanks and respect for Trump, both main political parties and the US as a whole, he steered clear of apologizing for Fridays events.

He defended his right to stand up for the dignity of his country and its people, and urged partners to show understanding for the suffering endured by Ukraine at the hands of Russia.

Im ready for any format of constructive relations with the US, Zelenskiy said.

--With assistance from Henry Meyer.

(Updates with Zelenskiys latest remarks starting in 16th paragraph.)

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with King Charles III on Sunday, just two days after the Ukrainian presidents explosive exchange with President Trump in the Oval Office.

The meeting, which took place at Sandringham House, came ahead of the European summit, which Britain was hosting in an effort to shore up support for Zelensky in the wake of the dramatic episode that unfolded in the Oval Office on Friday on live television.

The royal familys account on the social media platform X posted a photo of the king with Zelensky, shaking hands with each other.

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This evening, His Majesty The King received the President of Ukraine, @ZelenskyyUa, at Sandringham House, the post read, along with the photo. The message ended with an emoticon of the Ukrainian flag.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Zelensky on Saturday, embracing the president of the war-torn country upon his arrival. Starmer pledged unwavering support for Ukraine, saying the U.K. would stand with Ukraine as long as it takes.

The meeting comes amid questions about the future of the relationship between the United States and Ukraine, after Zelensky challenged Trump and Vice President Vance in the Oval Office meeting, and the American leaders responded by reprimanding Zelensky and accusing him of being insufficiently grateful.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
On 28 February Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva confirmed that federal deputy Gleisi Hoffmann, the national party president of the ruling left-wing Partido dos Trabalhadores (PT), will serve as the governments minister for institutional relations.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for greater military support after a week in which Russia launched more than 2,300 air attacks.

Last week, Russia attacked Ukraine with more than 1,050 drones, almost 1,300 aerial bombs and more than 20 missiles, he wrote on X.

"We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror," he wrote.

"Those who seek negotiations do not deliberately strike civilians with ballistic missiles. To force Russia to stop its attacks, we need greater collective strength from the world."

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He called upon allies to provide more air defence systems, support ground troops and provide "effective security guarantees."

Ukraine has been defending itself against an all-out Russian invasion for more than three years with Western assistance.

There are fears in Ukraine that US aid could dry up completely amid growing tensions between Zelensky and President Donald Trump.
When US President Donald Trump had a flare-up with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last week, anxiety rippled through America's global alliances. For many, it reinforced fears that Washington's commitment to its partners could be precarious.

Southeast Asia is keenly observing the unfolding geopolitical dynamics.

Each of the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) engages with both China and the United States, striving to find a balance between the US Indo-Pacific strategy and China's extensive claims in the South China Sea.

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Observers say that under pressure from Trump, Asean's long policy of neutrality and non-alignment between Beijing and Washington is to be further tested - although its neutral tradition could remain unchanged.

The analysts said Asean members' diplomatic actions had largely been bilateral rather than collective, indicating that some states, such as the Philippines, might face more serious challenges from Trump's administration than others.

Collin Koh, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, said Asean would maintain its balanced engagement with the US and China, despite recent moves by the Trump administration.

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He said some members would definitely "push from within Asean to at least keep the US engaged, even if there are some members who might be a little bit ambivalent about it". Koh said this kind of inclusive policy was the "general Asean consensus".

Asean has largely succeeded in preserving its neutrality, even as Washington's Indo-Pacific agenda sharpened anti-China rhetoric under former US president Joe Biden.

The bloc continued to host annual summits with both China and the US, cautiously navigating their intensifying rivalry as tensions rose in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

Chester Cabalza, president of the Manila-based think tank International Development and Security Cooperation, said a balanced approach to Asean could still be beneficial in the Trump era.

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"I truly agree on how Asean is clever enough to strike a balance between China and the US ... If the future dictates that China and the US will connive on certain issues, particularly on competitive economic investments and robust regional security, this is a win-win option for middle powers in the region."

Trump's first presidency prompted a number of foreign companies to relocate factories out of China because of US tariffs concerns, a trend that Asean nations - particularly Vietnam - capitalised on.

The trend could continue with Trump's pledges to impose a further 10 per cent tariff in addition to the 10 per cent already imposed on China.

Countries such as Malaysia are eyeing opportunities, especially in hi-tech and semiconductors.

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But some observers say the attitude to Trump within Asean will vary from nation to nation.

Some, like Cambodia and Laos, share strong economic and security ties with China, while others, especially Vietnam and the Philippines, are becoming increasingly aggressive towards Beijing over issues related to the South China Sea.

Trump's attitude to Ukraine may be the most likely to trigger a chilling effect on Manila, according to analysts, as the US' treaty ally has long relied on Washington's security assurances, especially in its escalating maritime conflicts with China.

"The Philippines still enjoys Washington's ironclad commitment in its defence relations; however, the [dust-up] in the Oval Office with Trump and Zelensky seems [to make conditions] unpredictable and vulnerable for Manila and their allies in the region," Cabalza said.

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He suggested that countries in the same situation as the Philippines - that is, facing strong hostility from Beijing - might need to reduce their dependence on the US.

"The US, Russia and China are aligning to achieve dominance in the interdependent global structures of international systems. With the sudden alteration of the world order, middle powers must muster robust defence partnerships and less dependence [on] major powers," he said.

However, despite the anxieties surrounding Trump's approach to alliances, Trump's administration remained much more focused on countering China, Koh said.

He said evidence so far "reinforces the narrative that Trump's administration is trying to [engage with] Russia, so that Russia does not align with China, which thereby further proved Trump's agenda of targeting and focusing China".

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Unlike Ukraine, the Philippines is a treaty ally of the United States. Despite Trump remaining largely silent on the South China Sea issue, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been vocal in repeatedly defending Manila.

The Philippines' top envoy to the US, Jose Romualdez, expressed confidence on Monday afternoon that the Trump administration would continue its military patrols in the disputed South China Sea and move ahead with an agreed expansion of the US military presence in the Philippines, according to an Associated Press report.

Jay Batongbacal, the executive director of the Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea at the University of the Philippines, added that although Trump's attitude to Zelensky gave Southeast Asian nations "sufficient cause to ponder their [Asean-Washington] respective futures", it was too early to predict how that might play out.

"Manila will certainly be concerned, but debates about the reliability of US security assurances are nothing new. For other [Asean countries] it may be either a turning point or a confirmation of long-held reservations.

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"There will still be an effort to keep the US engaged, but how strongly they will do so will likely depend on the next developments in Trump's foreign policy."

Vietnam is another Asean nation that has had disputes with China, as well as improving relations with the US. However, Koh said security might not be the key issue in its relationship with the US but rather how Hanoi might face Washington's scrutiny as a "potential back door" for Chinese products.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday said his country is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, pushing back on Republican claims that he is obstructing peace talks.

Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace. We want this war to end, Zelensky said in a post on the social platform X, in the wake of a heated Oval Office meeting with President Trump and Vice President Vance on Friday.

Zelensky said Russias aerial terror on Ukraine continues, with 1,050 drone attacks, nearly 1,300 bombs, and more than 20 missiles fire at Ukraine within the past week.

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Those who seek negotiations do not deliberately strike civilians with ballistic missiles, the Ukrainian president added. To force Russia to stop its attacks, we need greater collective strength from the world.

The Friday meeting between Trump and Zelensky started off cordial, but went off the rails when the vice president pushed Zelensky on diplomacy, prompting the Ukrainian leader to ask what kind of diplomacy, JD, are you speaking about?  pointing to past examples of Russian President Vladimir Putin flouting past ceasefire agreements.

Following the meeting, Trump said on his Truth Social platform that the Ukrainian president is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations.

Trump has been pushing for an end to the war between Russia and Ukraine, with senior U.S. and Russian officials meeting in Saudi Arabia last month.

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Democrats say Trump has already made key concessions to Russia before negotations begin, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth saying last month that Ukraine should not expect to join NATO or get back all of its Russian-occupied territory.

Zelensky was ostensibly visiting Washington to sign a minerals deal that could have given U.S. access to Ukraines natural resources revenue, in exchange for some degree of ongoing economic and security partnership.

Strengthening our air defense, supporting our army, and ensuring effective security guarantees that will make the return of Russian aggression impossible  this is what we must focus on, Zelensky said in his Monday X post.

Justice must prevail. We believe in the power of unity, and we will certainly restore lasting peace.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine has agreements with European partners on strengthening security. A series of meetings will take place in the coming weeks, providing a clearer vision of future support for Ukraine.

Source: Zelenskyy in an interview with British journalists at Stansted Airport

Details: Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is actively working with European partners on security issues. Several important agreements have already been reached, but they are not being publicised, as many meetings are still ahead.

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Quote: "We talked a lot about this today and have agreements among our European ounterparts. We are not publicising them because there will be a large number of meetings ahead. In the coming weeks, I think there will be a clearer vision of how Ukraine can be strengthened."

Details: Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine sees theoretical support regarding military contingents from a significant number of countries.

Quote: "I am not yet ready to name all the countries because, in due time, they will speak for themselves. But it is important that we are discussing this. It is significant that we have received support not only from France and Britain; this is a very serious signal."

Details: Speaking about the British and French plan, he emphasised that "it is still too early to talk about it".

"I do not want to discuss certain details until our partners have signed off on them," the president stressed.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that the war with Russia is far from over and that any peace agreement must be fair and include clear security guarantees.

Source: Sky News

Details: While speaking to UK journalists at Stansted Airport, Zelenskyy emphasised that any agreement to end the war must be "honest", "fair" and "stable". It must include specific security guarantees that would prevent further aggression from Russia.

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Zelenskyy categorically rejected the possibility of any territorial concessions and stressed that Ukraine would never recognise the occupied territories as part of Russia.

Quote: "Ukraine will never recognise territories that are occupied by Russia as Russian territory. For us, this will be temporary occupations. Our territories and our values are not for sale."

Details: Zelenskyy added that security guarantees must include a strong response from Ukraine and its partners in the event of renewed aggression from Russia.

"I don't want to talk about the details until there are some signatures... there are too many things to think of," he said.

Meanwhile, Zelenskyy reported that Ukraine's international partners had agreed to continue exerting pressure on Russia.

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that Ukraine is ready to sign the minerals agreement with the United States.

Source: Zelenskyy in a comment to reporters before his departure from the United Kingdom, as reported by BBC

Details: Zelenskyy was asked about the future of the agreement.

He answered that the agreement regarding mining rare minerals is ready for the minister to sign.

Quote: "It is our policy to continue what happened in the past. Were constructive; if we agree to sign the minerals deal, were ready to sign it."

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"The agreement thats on the table will be signed if the parties are ready."

Details: Zelenskyy said the relations between Ukraine and the US will continue. He later added that he does not think Fridays events in the Oval Office "brought something positive or additional to us as partners".

Zelenskyy noted that he is confident that "this situation will pass by" and that, in the future, if negotiations are "constructive, a positive result will come".

Background:

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy left the White House ahead of schedule on Friday after a dispute with Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.

The minerals agreement between Ukraine and the US was called off.

Trump said that Zelenskyy had been disrespectful to the US and was not ready for peace.

Zelenskyy said that the argument in the Oval Office was not good for either side and explained why he engaged in the altercation.

European leaders and EU officials publicly expressed their support for Ukraine following the clash between Zelenskyy and Trump in the Oval Office.

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The US and Ukraine seemed all set to sign a mineral deal on Friday.

But Trump and Zelenskyy had a heated exchange of words in front of cameras in the Oval Office.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready to sign the deal. But the US might have other thoughts.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Sunday that he remains "ready to sign" a deal with the US over Ukraine's mineral deposits, despite the spectacular breakdown in relations that played out between him and President Donald Trump on Friday.

Trump and Zelenskyy had a heated exchange of words in front of cameras in the Oval Office on Friday. And the Ukrainian leader left without either party having signed the deal, which had been touted by Trump earlier in the week.

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The agreement would establish a jointly-owned reconstruction investment fund, with Ukraine contributing 50% of all revenues from new ventures into state-owned natural resource assets  minerals including lithium and cobalt, as well as oil and natural gas.

Some of the materials are crucial for both military production and batteries used in EVs.

Speaking to the BBC on Sunday, Zelenskyy said that "the agreement that's on the table will be signed if the parties are ready."

"If we agreed to sign the minerals deal, we're ready to sign it," he added.

The deal has changed considerably since it was first mentioned  initially, the US had wanted up to $500 billion of the profits to be used to repay it for its military aid.

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Ukraine, meanwhile, had wanted ironclad security guarantees, but the final draft watered this down to a vague statement.

However, despite Zelenskyy's comments, moving forward might not be easy.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CBS on Sunday that it's "impossible to have an economic deal without a peace deal."

Although the minerals deal had been envisioned as a stepping stone toward developing a peace deal, Bessent said that "President Zelenskyy has thrown off the sequencing."

He also appeared to blame Zelenskyy for derailing the discussions, saying "he chose to blow that up."

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However, views in Europe were markedly different, with many seeing Trump's approach as heavy-handed.

Zelenskyy received a positive welcome in London on Sunday, where he attended an emergency summit with European leaders alarmed by the recent breakdown in US support for Ukraine.

Following that summit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the formation of a "coalition of the willing" to support Ukrainian security, involving the UK, France, and other European nations.

Starmer said that US support is essential to the plan, but "Europe must do the heavy lifting."

Read the original article on Business Insider
President Donald Trump on Monday blasted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for saying a peace deal is "very far."

"The final deal about ending the war is very, very far. Nobody's even started all those steps yet," Zelenskyy said Sunday on his way home from London after a summit with European leaders.

Trump called it "the worst statement that could have been made" by the Ukrainian president, writing on Truth Social, in part: "This is the worst statement that could have been made by Zelenskyy, and America will not put up with it for much longer!"

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When asked Monday afternoon by ABC News Senior Politics Correspondent Rachel Scott what he needs to see from Zelenskyy to restart negotiations on a peace deal, Trump replied: "Well, I just think he should be more appreciative because this country has stuck with them through thick and thin."

Scott also asked the president about Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov recently saying the administration's foreign policy is "largely in line with our vision."

"Well, I tell you what, I think it takes two to tango, and you're going to have to make a deal with Russia, and you're going to have to make a deal with Ukraine," Trump replied.

"If somebody doesn't want to make a deal, I think that person won't be around very long. That person will not be listened to very long," Trump also said, in part. "I believe that Russia wants to make a deal. I believe certainly the people of Ukraine want to make a deal. They've suffered more than anybody else. We talk about suffering. They've suffered."

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Zelenskyy earlier Monday expressed gratitude for years of American backing in a statement ending a tumultuous week of transatlantic diplomacy that saw a dramatic and public break with Trump's administration.

Zelenskyy framed this week's outreach as the beginning of a longer process that may result in a peace deal to end Russia's three-year-old invasion of his country. "There will be many meetings and joint efforts in the coming days and weeks," Zelenskyy said in a video posted to the presidential website.

"There will be diplomacy for peace," he added. "And for the sake of all of us standing together -- Ukraine, the whole of Europe, and necessarily America."

The Kremlin, meanwhile, said Monday it was "very important" to push Zelenskyy toward making a peace deal, echoing arguments made by Trump in Friday's contentious Oval Office meeting with the Ukrainian leader.

PHOTO: Demonstrators rally downtown to show their support for Ukraine on March 2, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

"He does not want peace. Someone should make Zelenskyy want peace," Peskov said, his remarks reflecting Russia's long-standing false narrative blaming Kyiv for Moscow's three-year-old invasion and more than a decade of cross-border aggression.

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"If the Europeans can do it, they should be honored and praised," Peskov said.

On Monday, Zelenskyy reacted to another night of Russian long-range missile and drone strikes, writing on Telegram, "Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a peace that is just and reliable. We want this war to end. But Russia does not want it and continues its aerial terror."

"Those who want negotiations do not deliberately hit people with ballistic missiles," the president added. "To force Russia to stop the strikes, we need a greater joint force of the world."

Trump was expected to meet with his top national security advisers Monday afternoon for a briefing on Ukraine, multiple sources told ABC News.

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The briefing will include national security adviser Mike Waltz, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The group will discuss next steps after Zelenskyy was asked to leave the White House after last week's explosive Oval Office meeting.

Zelenskyy's fiery Friday meeting with Trump and Vice President JD Vance demonstrated the divergence in Ukrainian and U.S. visions of Russia's war, blame for which Trump has repeatedly and falsely attributed to Kyiv while also seeking to undermine Zelenskyy's legitimacy.

Russian officials celebrated the disastrous meeting. Peskov told state television on Sunday that Trump's administration is "rapidly changing" American "foreign policy configurations," putting them "largely in line with our vision."

In his Sunday statement, Zelenskyy said Ukrainians "understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we have received from the United States. There hasn't been a single day when we haven't felt grateful. Because this is gratitude for the preservation of our independence."

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"We need peace, not endless war," he added. "And that is why we say that security guarantees are the key to this."

Zelenskyy attended a summit of European leaders in London on Sunday. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he had agreed with Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron that the U.K. and France would work with Ukraine to formulate a peace plan that will then be presented to the U.S.

MORE: British prime minister announces framework for peace plan after summit with Zelelskyy

Starmer outlined a plan including the continuation of aid flows to Ukraine and the maintaining of economic pressure on Russia. The prime minister said that any lasting peace agreement must ensure Ukraine's sovereignty and security, and that Kyiv must be at the negotiating table.

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In the event of a deal, Starmer said Europe will continue to help Ukraine militarily to deter any future military action by Russia. He also said there will be a "coalition of the willing" to help defend Ukraine.

Starmer said the United Kingdom is ready to back the plan with boots on the ground and planes in the air. He said he also recognizes that not all countries will be able to make this kind of commitment.

Starmer stressed that any deal will need strong U.S. backing to succeed.

PHOTO: Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France's President Emmanuel Macron embrace after holding a meeting during a summit at Lancaster House in central London, U.K., on March 2, 2025. (Justin Tallis/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Zelenskyy said Sunday he had been given "clear support from Europe," reporting "even greater unity, even stronger readiness for cooperation" from his weekend meetings.

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"Everyone is united on the main point -- for peace to be real, real security guarantees are needed," the president said. "And this is the position of all of our Europe -- of the entire continent."

"In the near future, all of us in Europe will shape our common positions -- the lines we must achieve and the lines we cannot compromise on," Zelenskyy said. "These positions will be presented to our partners in the United States."

"Robust and lasting peace, and the right agreement on the end of the war are truly our shared priority," he added.

MORE: After 3 brutal years of Russia-Ukraine war, resolution rests on shoulders of 3 men

ABC News' Patrick Reevell and Katherine Faulders contributed to this article.

Trump blasts Zelenskyy for saying peace is 'very, very far' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Ukraine is working "together with America and our European partners" on the path to peace and is counting on the support of the United States.

Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter) on Monday, as reported by European Pravda

Details: The president said work with Ukraines partners continues.

Quote from Zelenskyy: "We have already had talks and other steps to come soon. It is very important that we try to make our diplomacy really substantive to end this war [as soon as] possible."

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Details: Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine needs real peace, and "Ukrainians want it most because the war ruins our cities and towns. We lose our people."

"We need to stop the war and to guarantee security. We are working together with America and our European partners and very much hope for US support on the path to peace. Peace is needed as soon as possible," Zelenskyy said.

Background:

Zelenskyys tweet came as US President Donald Trump continued to attack him on his social media platform, saying the Ukrainian president had made "the worst statement" about the war.

Trump's National Security Adviser Mike Waltz said the US administration wants to hear from President Zelenskyy that he regrets the Oval Office argument.

Support Ukrainska Pravda on Patreon!
The showdown between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office Friday laid bare the hard choices that lie ahead for the Ukrainian leader as his country continues fighting the three-year war prompted by Russias invasion.

After Trump admonished Zelenskyy in front of the whole world, accusing him of gambling with World War III for arguing that Russian President Vladimir Putin cant be trusted, Trumps GOP allies rushed to Trumps defense, claiming that now might be the time for Zelenskyy to step aside.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a former vocal supporter of Ukraine in Congress, claimed that Zelenskyy has almost made it impossible to sell it to the American people that hes a good investment.

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He either needs to resign and send somebody over that we can do business with or he needs to change, Graham added.

President Donald Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 28, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Zelenskyy shot back at Graham, telling reporters in London Sunday that his future is a matter solely for the Ukrainian people to decide.

The president of Ukraine will have to be chosen not in Lindsey Grahams home but in Ukraine, Zelenskyy said, according to a translation of his remarks.

The Ukrainian leader appears to be held in high regard in Ukraine despite his tense exchange with the U.S. president. He added that he would be prepared to give up his position in exchange for NATO membership for his country  a prospect that Trump has ruled out.

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Alarmingly, Trumps billionaire ally Elon Musk said the U.S. should leave the military alliance, raising new questions about the administrations commitment to NATO.

Mujtaba Rahman, the managing director of Eurasia Group in Europe, said the fallout from Fridays shouting match may actually have had the beneficial effect of creating a parallel negotiating track under which European leaders are now responsible for working on a ceasefire proposal to present to Trump.

The urgency of this moment was on full display during the summit British Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted in London on Sunday where many of Kyivs backers came together to discuss what they can do to continue to support the country as Trump has made clear he wants the war to end  almost at any cost.

Starmer, who hugged Zelenskyy upon his arrival to Downing Street this weekend, disputed the notion that the U.S. is no longer a reliable ally, noting that Americas role would be crucial in any potential peace plan despite the Oval Office showdown.

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Europe must do the heavy lifting. But to support peace in our continent and to succeed, this effort must have strong U.S. backing, Starmer said Sunday.

Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, embraces and greets Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Downing Street, London, on March 1, 2025. Kin Cheung via Associated Press

In any event, though, its unclear if Trump would be willing to take a European proposal on board. Leaders now fear that the Trump administration is aligned with Russia on the view that a strong Europe is not in their interest, Rahman told HuffPost.

If that is the case, how much can an offer from Europe actually move the dial, given the disposition of this American administration? he asked.

Rahman told HuffPost that European leaders are now primarily focused on articulating what the architecture of a U.S. security guarantee could look like and developing plans for robust financing for Ukraine and the wider continents security and defense.

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Rahman predicted that Europe would be unlikely to support calls for Zelenskyy to step down if that ended up being the official U.S. position, adding that this is the type of call that would have to be made by Zelenskyy himself.

I think ultimately, Zelenskyys decision would very much hinge on whether he feels the ceasefire deal that is being agreed is credible and has a chance of ultimately working and being implemented in an effective and successful way over time, Rahman said.

For now, though, Zelenskyy has indicated no immediate plans to step aside and seems to think that his relationship with Trump can be repaired.

Trump, though, may already be preparing to throw Kyiv under the bus. He and his advisers are reportedly due to discuss the prospect of cutting off military aid to the war-torn country on Monday, according to The New York Times. The U.S. has been Ukraines biggest single donor, raising questions about how the country will fare without American support.

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Eric Ciaramella, a Russia and Eurasia expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, told The Washington Post it could be counterproductive for Zelenskyy to lead his countrys negotiations with the U.S. in light of recent tensions, given the stakes.

If Zelenskyy proceeds strategically, he will accept that he cannot fix this personally and will instead appoint an envoy  someone respected in Washington who is not part of his current senior team  to try to get the train back onto the tracks in the coming weeks, Ciaramella told The Post.

The alternative, I fear, is that Moscow and Washington will reach a deal over the heads of Ukrainians, Ciaramella added.

Related...
On February 28, 2025, the 25th China Medical Team in Sierra Leone held a conclusion meeting for the Using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to Improve Community Health Project and an unveiling ceremony for the TCM Center in Sierra Leone. Deputy Minister of Health of Sierra Leone, Dr. Charles Senesie, as well as Ministerial Counselor Zhang Dianbin of the Chinese Embassy in Sierra Leone, Deputy Director of the Hunan Provincial Health Commission, Mr. Chang Shi, and Head of the Hunan Rehabilitation Hospital, Mr. Ding Jian attended the event.

Ministerial Counselor Zhang Dianbin spoke highly of the 25th China medical team for carrying forward the spirit of China Medical Team which is fearless of hardships, willing to make sacrifices, saving lives and helping the wounded, and spreading boundless love, by working together, upholding the truth and making innovations, has been continuously improving the quality and level of medical services by promoting TCM in Sierra Leone, making important contributions to enhancing the friendship between the Chinese and Sierra Leonean peoples and deepening the health cooperation between the two countries.

On behalf of the Sierra Leonean government, Deputy Minister Senesie sincerely thanked the China medical team for their work. He spoke highly of the project of bringing TCM into the communities, which provides medical services to the Sierra Leonean people at their doorsteps and relieves their illnesses and pain. He placed high hopes on the TCM Center and hoped that relevant content could be integrated into Sierra Leonean medical education and health service system as soon as possible, to cultivate more local TCM practitioners to provide services to more people in a wider area.

Dr. You Xiong, the project leader, introduced the basic situation of the project. In response to President Xi Jinping's call of implement the strategy of "TCM going global", the 25th China Medical Team to Sierra Leone focused on building a TCM center and promoting TCM diagnosis and treatment locally. At present, a TCM clinic has been successfully set up in the China-Sierra Leone Friendship Hospital, more than 300 local apprentices have participated in TCM studying, and more than 12,900 local residents have received free TCM acupuncture services. TCM has been widely praised by Sierra Leonean patients and welcomed by community people.

Deputy Director Chang Shi and Mr. Ding Jian delivered speeches respectively to congratulate the establishment of the TCM Center, and expressed that Hunan Province will continue to firmly support the China- Sierra Leone health cooperation, vigorously promote the implementation of TCM in Sierra Leone, and let the simple, convenient, cheap and effective TCM go abroad and benefit the world.

At the end of the ceremony, Ministerial Counselor Zhang Dianbin, Deputy Minister Senesie and experts from the China medical team jointly unveiled the TCM Center in Sierra Leone.




Officials in Zimbabwe recently said the country will work with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and likely with investment from Russia, to develop a nuclear power program in the country. Zimbabwe is joining other African nations exploring nuclear power as a way to help solve chronic problems with electricity supply. Demand for power continues to increase on the continent due to growing populations and economic expansion.

1. The Koeberg nuclear power station in South Africa is the only nuclear power plant on the African continent. Its two units, with more than 1,800 MW of generation capacity in total, have operated since the mid-1980s. Courtesy: Eskom

The only African country currently producing nuclear energy is South Africa. The French-built Koeberg plant (Figure 1) near Cape Town, with two Framatome reactors and just more than 1,800 MW of generation capacity, has operated for 40 years. Officials have said Russia will work on an expansion of that power station, and possibly on construction of new reactors elsewhere in the country. Eskom, South Africas state power company, said it re-connected Unit 2 at Koeberg to the national grid on Dec. 30 of last year after replacing three steam generators, conducting comprehensive inspections, and refueling the reactor. A decision on extending the units operating license is expected this year. Koeberg Unit 1s operating license was renewed last year for another 20 years, to 2044. The Koeberg units, both pressurized water reactors, have operated since 1984 and 1985, respectively. Bheki Nxumalo, group executive for generation at Eskom, in a statement said, As South Africa phases out some of the aging coal-fired power plants by 2030, nuclear energy is poised to provide a reliable and stable baseload supply. Unlike intermittent renewable sources, nuclear power ensures continuous electricity generation, meeting the needs of both residential and industrial users. Its ability to produce carbon-free energy also supports South Africas climate goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Edgar Moyo, minister of Zimbabwes Energy and Power Development, said his country plans to increase its power generation capacity to at least 4 GW by 2035, up from the current 2.6 GW, although government data shows actual daily power generation is about half of capacity. Moyo said his country will collaborate with Russia on construction of small nuclear reactors. Moyo in late December told journalists at a meeting in Harare, Zimbabwe, that the IAEA have indicated their willingness to take us through paces until we get there. Russia already has agreements to build nuclear power plants with Egypt, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso, in addition to South Africa. Russian nuclear energy state-owned company Rosatom and the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in 2021 signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on nuclear energy. Economists and geopolitical analysts have said Russia wants to take a lead role in Africas energy future to expand its influence on the continent. A reliable nuclear energy infrastructure could supply electricity to millions of people in rural or underserved areas, said Irina Tsukerman, an adviser and foreign policy expert with Scarab Rising, a U.S.-based geopolitical research group. Many African countries still face significant gaps in electricity access, and nuclear power can help bridge that gap, particularly in countries with a growing urban population. Nuclear energy can provide a stable supply for expanding economies, ensuring industries and households have reliable power without frequent outages or blackouts, which are common in many parts of Africa. Tsukerman told POWER, Right now, South Africa is the only country in Africa with a nuclear plant, although several more are being planned. In theory, introduction of nuclear power throughout the continent could be effective in addressing power shortages. Thats because nuclear power has significant advantages over other forms of energy that could work well, including in developing countries. Tsukerman said nuclear power would benefit Africa because it would provide reliable energy production as well as large amounts of energy from relatively small amounts of fuel. For countries with limited land or resources, nuclear power can provide a reliable source of electricity without requiring vast areas of land, unlike solar or wind energy, which depend on large installations. Gloria Magombo, Zimbabwes secretary for energy and power development, during a December 2024 media briefing said that in addition to nuclear power, the country also wants to deploy more renewable energy resources apart from hydropower, which has been impacted by drought conditions. Magombo said, We are looking at coming in by 2030 with up to about 2,000 megawatts from solar, wind, and hydropower resources. The country has a National Renewable Energy Program, though officials have said private investment along with public capital will be needed to support a build-out. A Renewable Energy Fund was launched in September of last year. The U.S. State Department in a report last year said, Debt significantly hinders Zimbabwes economic growth and development, noting the country owes over $9 billion [$7.0 billion of which is in arrears and penalties] to international financial institutions and bilateral creditors, equating to about 33% of the countrys GDP [gross domestic product]. Dr. Lisa Marshall, president of the American Nuclear Society, and Dr. Sola Talabi, president of Pittsburgh Technical, a nuclear power consulting firm, told POWER that nuclear power would offer reliable baseload power for Zimbabwe and other African nations, and serve as a complement to other sources of energy while promoting foreign investment. The two noted that with population growth and socio-economic needs, what nuclear energy brings to the table is an energy course that can be coupled with district heating [providing higher efficiencies and better pollution control than localized boilers, for instance], as well as the potential of radioisotopes for medical diagnosis and treatment. The two said that the World Bank Group categorizes Zimbabwe as a lower middle-income country with strong human and natural capital and significant growth potential. Building on its highly educated workforce, abundant natural resources, and recent advances in economic policy, together with key structural and institutional reforms, Zimbabwe could achieve steady and rapid growth and move towards an upper middle-income country status, which the Government of Zimbabwe has targeted for 2030. They noted that the simplified and decentralized infrastructure of advanced reactors make them very attractive to emerging markets where large infrastructure deployment is very challenging. For example, a microreactor can be deployed within days, thereby providing immediate power. Tsukerman agreed that nuclear power would be a way to attract foreign investment to Africa. Nuclear power projects, due to their size and complexity, can attract foreign investments, boosting economic development and infrastructure in the surrounding regions, she said. Building and maintaining nuclear power plants requires skilled labor, including engineers, technicians, and construction workers. This can help boost local economies and create long-term employment. Tsukerman also noted that nuclear power could help lower or even eliminate some African countries reliance on imported oil, natural gas, and coal for power generation. Nuclear power can help reduce this reliance, enhancing energy security and ensuring a more stable energy supply, she said. Tsukerman also noted that Africa has significant uranium reserves, and mining it for nuclear power could provide a domestic source of fuel. Countries like Namibia, Niger, and South Africa have the potential to harness this resource. Marshall and Talabi said there would be a connection between Zimbabwes mining industry and its increased interest in nuclear power, saying that advanced reactors and microreactors have the potential to decarbonize the mining sector. They said that advanced reactors can provide reliable, low-carbon heat and electricity for mining operations, replacing traditional fossil fuel-based energy sources. This would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support climate goals. The two also noted that many of the countrys mining operations are located in remote areas where access to the grid is limited. They said that microreactors can be readily deployed in these off-grid locations to provide a stable power supply, reducing reliance on diesel generators. Talabi and Marshall said that the countrys mining sector is essential for the clean energy transition, as it supplies critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements needed for renewable energy technologies. Microreactors can enable sustainable and cost-effective mining of these minerals. Whether U.S. companies, particularly those in the nuclear power space, would invest in Zimbabwe is questionable. The U.S. government ended its Zimbabwe Sanctions Program in March of last year, but continues to monitor individuals and companies under its Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, or GloMag, part of the Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control. Officials in the U.S. and other countries, including the UK, have cited corruption, political instability, and the countrys high levels of debt as reasons to be wary of investment. Tsukerman noted the economic issues in Zimbabwe and other African countries are also a factor. A downside of the U.S. reactors is that they tend to be more expensive than the Russian and Chinese technologies, they are limited in scale and size, and so more would need to be purchased to serve communities, she said, noting the U.S. has yet to negotiate agreements with many of these countries, which in itself could be a monumental task given an anti-Western trend, particularly in West Africa, on the one hand, and the aggressive entry of other actors, such as Russia and China, on the other. Moreover, the U.S. has strict anti-corruption laws, which complicate bidding for tenders in countries with a different business culture, and many of the U.S. companies are reluctant to engage anywhere with an apparent high business risk. India is another country working to make inroads in Africa. India currently is at the forefront of building thorium reactors, said Tsukerman. According to plan, 30% of the Indian electricity in 2050 will be generated from thorium-based reactors. India is also a growing power throughout Africa, striving to compete with China and to expand its own geopolitical and economic reach. It has no shortage of workforce or engineers, and its work would be cheaper than U.S. or European implementation. However, so far India has not applied power plant outreach to its economic programs in Africa, and also struggles with modernizing its own business culture and implementation, focusing on exports of raw materials for the time being.

2. Officials in Ghana, along with U.S.-based Regnum Technology Group, last year reached an agreement to deploy a NuScale VOYGR-12 small modular reactor in Ghana. Courtesy: NuScale Power

There is some U.S. investment for nuclear technology in Africa. At the U.S.-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, last year, Nuclear Power Ghana and U.S. nuclear technology project developer Regnum Technology Group reached an agreement to deploy a single NuScale VOYGR-12 (Figure 2) small modular reactor (SMR) facility in Ghana. Their goal is to own and operate the continents first commercial advanced light-water SMR plant. Of course, whether the Western powers decide to compete with the Russian and Chinese variants depends a lot on the terms they can negotiate, said Tsukerman. She said that Japan, which is making slow headways in the more-developed African countries like Kenya, could be well-positioned to provide a viable alternative to Russia and China in the nuclear sector. Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER.
By Mary Milliken

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) -Zoe Saldana won the Oscar for best supporting actress on Sunday for her role as a Mexico City lawyer and fixer for a former drug lord in the crime drama and musical "Emilia Perez."

It was the first Oscar win for the 46-year-old Saldana and was preceded by wins at the Golden Globes and BAFTA and SAG awards this year for the same role.

"Thank you to the Academy for recognizing the quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita," said Saldana with tears in her eyes as she accepted her Oscar.

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"And talking about powerful women, my fellow nominees, the love and community that you have offered me is a true gift and I will pay it forward."

She also thanked "Emilia Perez" director Jacques Audiard, whom she called "forever a beloved character in my life."

Saldana helps the drug lord fake his death and then get gender-affirming surgery so that Emilia Perez can become a woman, played by Spain's Karla Sofia Gascon. In return, she is given a large sum of money.

She also sings the song "El Mal" in which she criticizes the rich at a charity gala.

Saldana has starred in some of the highest-grossing films, including "Avatar" and "Guardians of the Galaxy."

((Reporting by Mary Milliken; Editing by Howard Goller and Nick Zieminski)
Estelle Reel Meyer, the first woman to be elected statewide in Wyoming, settled in Toppenish after serving as the national superintendent of Indian Schools. (Photo from the Library of Congress)
Ambassador Dorothy Camille Shea, charge daffaires ad interim of the United States, speaks during a Feb. 24 United Nations Security Council meeting on Ukraine at the United Nations headquarters in New York City.
Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley.
The construction of the pedestrian-bicycle bridge across the Danube between Dunakiliti and Dobrohost will resume, as the government has allocated Ft 2.4 billion to complete the project, the Construction and Transport Ministry said.

Work on the Hungarian-Slovak project near Bratislava was suspended at the end of 2023 due to legal disputes between the Slovak partner and a bridge contractor.



The government is providing Ft 940 million this year, approximately Ft 1.4 billion next year and up to Ft 40 million in 2027 for the project.



The costs are split equally between the Hungarian and Slovak governments.



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New Delhi: Leading passenger vehicle maker Maruti Suzuki on Saturday reported marginal growth while Hyundai and Tata Motors posted a decline in their sales in February as a slowdown in the market continued with demand remaining muted. On the other hand, Mahindra & Mahindra and Toyota Kirloskar Motor posted double-digit growth riding on their SUV and MPV models.

Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) said its total domestic passenger vehicle sales were at 1,60,791 units last month as compared with 1,60,271 units in the year-ago month, a marginal year-on-year growth.

Sales of the company's mini segment cars, comprising Alto and S-Presso, declined to 10,226 units as against 14,782 units in same month last year, while those of compact cars, including Baleno, Celerio, Dzire, Ignis, Swift, and WagonR, rose to 72,942 units as compared to 71,627 units in the year-ago month.

MSI said its utility vehicles, consisting of Grand Vitara Brezza, Ertiga, XL6, Jimny clocked higher sales at 65,033 units last month as compared to 61,234 units earlier.

In February our SUVs, especially Brezza and Fronx, continue to see strong demand with Fronx achieving its highest-ever monthly sales of over 21 ,000 units. Our CNG vehicles maintained their demand momentum with a 37% growth rate for the month. These numbers reflect customers' continued trust in Maruti Suzuki, Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki.

Rival Hyundai Motor India said it dispatched 47,727 units to dealers in the domestic market last month, a drop of 5 per cent as compared with 50,201 units in February 2024.

"On the domestic sales front, despite geopolitical challenges, we remain optimistic that the proposed tax reforms in the Union Budget 2025 and improved liquidity will provide the much-needed demand boost to the market," Hyundai Motor India Whole-time Director and CEO Tarun Garg said.

Tata Motors said its domestic passenger vehicle (PV) sales, including electric vehicles, were down 9 per cent at 46,435 units as compared with 51,267 units a year ago.

On the other hand, M&M said its utility vehicles sales in the domestic market were at 50,420 vehicles, a growth of 19 per cent as compared with 42,401 units in February last year.

"This strong performance is a result of a continued positive momentum for our SUV portfolio," Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) Automotive Division President Veejay Nakra said.

Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) said its overall sales increased 13 per cent year-on-year to 28,414 units in February as compared to 25,220 units in February 2024. The company dispatched 26,414 units to its dealers in the domestic market and exported 2,000 units.

"MPVs and SUVs continue to be the primary growth drivers, contributing 68 per cent to overall sales," Toyota Kirloskar Motor Vice President, Sales-Service-Used Car Business Varinder Wadhwa said.

The strong demand for models such as the Innova Crysta, Innova Hycross, Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Hilux, Fortuner, Legender, and Rumion reflects the growing preference for reliable and quality products, he added.

Kia India also reported a 23.8 per cent rise in total sales at 25,026 units in February compared to 20,200 units sold in the same month last year.

"Kia India continues to grow steadily, driven by strong customer demand and our commitment to delivering cutting-edge mobility solutions...With a diverse and evolving product lineup, Kia India continues to respond to market demand with agility and precision," Kia India Senior Vice President and Head of Sales and Marketing, Hardeep Singh Brar said.

Similarly, JSW MG Motor India reported a 16.3 per cent rise in retail sales at 4,956 units in February this year compared to 4,261 units in the same month last year.
Los Angeles: French composer duo Clement Ducol and Camille took home the original song award at the Oscars on Sunday for their track, 'El Mal', from the film 'Emilia Perez'.

The song in Audiard's operatic drama is a three-minute tour de force for Saldana as lawyer Rita Castro, a fantasy in which she dances around a room filled with the rich and powerful, decrying the hypocrisy of those responsible for the murders of thousands of Mexicans during the drug wars, as per Variety.

The award was presented by Mick Jagger.

After thanking the audience and saying how pleased he was to present the award, he said, "Much as I love doing it, I wasn't the first choice to give this award out. The producer really wanted Bob Dylan. But Bob said, 'The best songs this year were obviously in the movie 'A Complete Unknown,'" Jagger said, imitating 83-year-old Dylan's deadpan. "Bob said, 'You should find somebody younger."

"El Mal" was one of two songs from the film that earned nominations; the other was "Mi Camino," a romantic ballad performed as a karaoke number by co-star Selena Gomez, also written by Camille and Ducol.
Patna: With Bihar elections scheduled later this year, the Nitish Kumar government on Monday presented a comprehensive budget of Rs 3.17 lakh-crore, unveiling key initiatives focused on womens empowerment, farmer support, infrastructure development and prioritising student welfare.

Presenting the budget on the floor of the assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary, who holds the finance portfolio, told the House that the budget, the total size of which was Rs 38,169 crore more than the last fiscal, is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'margdarshan' (guidance) and the CM's 'netritva' (leadership).

The NDA government in the state has decided to allocate substantial funds for women empowerment schemes and entrepreneurship, Choudhary said.

"For marriage of poor girls of marriageable age, the government will set up 'Kanya Vivah Mandaps' in all panchayats. The government will set up a mahila haat (womens marketplace) in Patna and reserve space for women in vending zones in major cities in the state," he added.

"Dedicated pink buses for women will operate in major cities, in which the driver, passengers and the conductor will be women. Besides, pink toilets in all districts will be constructed for women. Twenty such toilets will be built within a month in the state," Choudhary added.

The government will also start gym-on-wheels in Patna, in which trainers will be women only, he added.

The government also announced that hostels will be set up for working women in major cities.

Choudhary said the government will provide 33 per cent reservation for women in jobs at the Bihar State Road Transport Corporation. Additionally, he said, the government will offer a subsidy to women for purchasing e-rickshaws.

"The government has received enormous support from the people of the state in its bid to achieve the goal of a samriddh Bihar, which is essential to achieve the prime ministers goal of a viksit Bihar", he added.

"Modis vision of sabka saath, sabka vikas aur sabka prayas and the CMs motto of nyay ke saath vikas have been the twin guiding principles behind the budget. We are making progress, leaving behind years of anarchy," said the senior BJP leader, in an apparent dig at the opposition RJD-Congress combine.

Speaking about budgetary allocations for different sectors, Choudhary said Rs 60,964 crore has been set aside for education, which is of crucial importance in the densely populated state with a relatively young demographic.

The government has also decided to increase the scholarship amount from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 per month for students from Class 1 to Class 10, he said, adding that the government will also ensure the opening of at least one degree college in all 534 blocks in the state.

He said Rs 20,335 crore has been allocated for the health sector, while Rs 17,831 crore will be given to the home department, which is responsible for law and order, improvement in which has been the most talked about achievement of the NDA government.

The FM said greenfield airports will be built at Sultanganj and Raxaul, in Bhagalpur and East Champaran districts, respectively, and the airport at Purnea will become operational within three months.

In a bid to strengthen the health network in the state, a dedicated cancer hospital has been proposed for Begusarai district.

The budget also spoke of the government's resolve to make the registration of property easier.

In his speech, Choudhary also mentioned the cooperation received by the state from the Centre and thanked it for the many announcements made for Bihar in the Union budget.

"The state has a revenue surplus of Rs 8,831.18 crore during 2025-26, which is 0.80 per cent of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). The GSDP estimate is Rs 10,97,264 crore for the year 2025-26. The fiscal deficit has been estimated at Rs 32,718.31 crore, which is 2.98 per cent of GSDP estimate at Rs 10,97,264 crore for the year 2025-26," he said.

"The fiscal deficit has been estimated at Rs 32,718.31 crore, which is 2.98 per cent of the GSDP estimate at Rs 10,97,264 crore for the year 2025-26. For the year 2025-26, revenue surplus is Rs 8,831.18 crore. This revenue surplus will be used for investment in physical infrastructure, generating productive capital assets like roads, buildings, power, schools, health centers, irrigation schemes, etc.," he said.

A provision of Rs 13,368.47 crore has been made for the welfare of SC & ST, Minority, OBC and most backward classes (MBC) and social welfare for the year 2025-26.

The government will open migration counselling-cum-registration centres in cities like Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, NCT of Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Surat, Ludhiana, Coimbatore, and Chennai for providing assistance to migrant labourers from Bihar outside the state, he added.

For the benefit of farmers, the state government, in association with NEFED and the National Cooperative Consumer Federation (NCCF), will fix the minimum support price of pulses, he said.

Later, talking to reporters, Choudhary said, "Bihar will continue to grow under the leadership of Modi and Nitish."

As soon as Choudhary finished the budget, Bihar CM hugged him and congratulated him. Choudhary said, "Nitish Ji is our guardian his praise means a lot for me. It was Nitish Kumars budget presented by me," Choudhary said.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, in an event on Monday, urged the couples in the state to have more children. This statement comes amid his delimitation concerns and the potential political repercussions it may pose.

CM Stalin urged the couples to give birth to a child immediately. He also said that if delimitation is implemented based on population, then the states success in family planning could result in reduced Lok Sabha seats, according to IANS. If delimitation is carried out solely on the basis of population, Tamil Nadu stands to lose eight parliamentary seats. This will significantly weaken our representation in Parliament, he said.

As per ANI, CM Stalin, talking about family planning, said, Before it is used to say don't give birth to child immediately, no need to rush. But now it is not necessary, we shouldn't say that also.. Because it is being said that the number of MPs would be decided based on population. The situation created is more population, more MPs. But we have achieved success with focusing on family planning. Now I won't say don't rush to give birth to child, give birth to child immediately.

With 39 MPs, we are fighting for rights; with more MPs, we can achieve our thoughts, he said while focusing on the number of MPs in the LS.

Furthermore, he requested all parties to attend an all-party meeting regarding delimitation and added, This is a crucial issue for our state. I urge all political parties to set aside their differences, attend the meeting, and express their views.

Speaking on the matter, son of CM Stalin and Tamil Nadu Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, as per ANI, said, The Tamil Nadu CM is the person who has brought the Metro Railway project to Chennai. The CM said three things recently: we don't accept NEP, we won't accept delimitation, and we won't accept Hindi imposition. Today, the central is trying to impose the Hindi language sideways. Centre is directly trying to impose Hindi through the New Education Policy. Tamil Nadu will never accept the New Education Policy and Hindi imposition in any manner. We (DMK) are not feared by Central Government threats because the current regime is DMK, not AIADMK. The current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is MK Stalin, not Edappadi Palaniswami (AIADMK Chief and Former CM).

Further, as for the Centres take on the debate, Union Home Minister Amit Shah dismissed CM Stalins claims and assured that if delimitation is implemented, no southern state of India would lose parliamentary seats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear in the Lok Sabha that even after delimitation, no southern state will see a reduction in its seats, said Shah as he addressed party workers in Coimbatore recently.

(with agencies' input)
In a breakthrough, the Haryana Police on Sunday arrested the main accused in the murder case of Congress worker Himani Narwal, whose body was found inside a suitcase near a highway in Rohtak on March 1. According to reports, the accused is her boyfriend and killed Narwal at his home. The Zee News report claimed that the man had admitted to the crime.

The police have also found Narwal's mobile and jewellery in the accused's possession. He was in relation with Narwal for a long and alleged that Narwal was blackmailing her. The accused is a resident of Bahadurgarh.

The police have also formed a Special Investigation Task Force to probe other angles into the murder of Himani Narwal. Sampla DSP Rajneesh Kumar said, "An SIT has been formed. Her phone has been recovered. We are using cyber and FSL. We are investigating all angles."

DSP informed that the deceased lived alone in Haryana while her family stayed in Delhi. The deceased worker's mother made some shocking allegations. The mother, Savita, held the election and the party responsible for her daughter's death, suggesting that Himani's rising stature in the party had created enemies for her.

According to Savita, Himani's mother, her daughter was at home on February 28 and had been receiving threats. Savita believes that Himani's close relationships with prominent Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and the Hooda family, had sparked jealousy among some individuals.

"The election and the party took my daughter's life. Because of this, she made some enemies. These (the culprits) could be from the party, could be her friends as well...On February 28, she was at home," Savita said.

"We received a phone call from the Police Station (regarding the incident). My daughter was very close to Asha Hooda (wife of Bhupinder Singh Hooda). I won't perform her last rites until she gets justice...," she added.

Senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda condemned the incident, citing a breakdown in law and order in Haryana, which he claims is the worst state in the country for crimes against women.

Hooda also lashed out at the BJP-led state government over the alleged murder of the Congress Party worker and demanded a swift investigation and strict punishment for the guilty, regardless of their affiliation. He revealed that he is in touch with police personnel and has spoken with the Superintendent of Police, who is hopeful of finding clues soon. (With ANI inputs)
Opposition Unity has been a far-fetched dream with the regional satraps being at odds with Congress more than often. Post Lok Sabha Election results, the bickering was more than evident with regional parties openly questioning Congress. The BJP's victory in states like Haryana, Maharashtra and Delhi further put a question mark on Congress' credibility especially when the contest was direct. The regional and national political parties joined hands together under the INDI alliance to defeat the saffron party in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections but the after losing Lok Sabha election all the parties have scattered out.

AAP and Congress were a part of the INDIA bloc during the Lok Sabha election but in recent polls in Haryana and Delhi, both parties contested individually which can be one of the reasons behind the loss in polls. In the 2025 Delhi assembly election, AAP managed to secure only 22 seats while Congress remained at zero. In 14 constituencies including the New Delhi seat, the BJP's victory margin was lesser than the votes polled by Congress.

The three assembly elections lined up in 2026 and 2027 - West Bengal, Kerala and Punjab - are set to further widen the rift between INDIA bloc allies. Assembly elections in Bengal are scheduled for early 2026, while Kerala in mid-2026 and Punjab in early 2027.

In West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee has time again shown a door to the Congress and Left when it comes to alliance. The BJP has already emerged as the main opposition party in Bengal where it was lagging 10 years ago. The Congress and the Left combo has failed to make an impact in the eastern state.

In Punjab, which is going under polls in 2027, Congress and AAP will be the main opponents, continuing their rivalry from the Delhi and Haryana elections. In Kerala, Congress and the Left will be the primary rivals, with the Left currently in power.

Bihar appears to be the only silver lining for the opposition unity as the Rashtriya Janata Dal continues to have faith in the Congress. The Bihar, going to the polls later this year, is likely to witness a two-way contest between the NDA and the INDIA bloc as the new entrant Jan Suraaj of Prashant Kishor set to test the waters.

Last time, the RJD emerged as the single largest party, and if the Mahagathbandhan (RJD-Congress-Left-VIP) succeeds in wresting power from Nitish Kumar, it could strengthen opposition unity. This victory could serve as a model, demonstrating that the BJP can be defeated when parties set aside their differences and work together.
The Supreme Court on Monday permitted popular YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia to resume airing his podcast on the condition that he will maintain the standards of decency and morality.

Allahbadia and several other YouTubers, including Ashish Chanchlani and Apoorva Mukhija, have been embroiled in the controversy for vulgar and crass comments made during an episode of Samay Raina's India's Got Latent' show.

A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N. Kotiswar Singh relaxed an earlier condition that had prohibited Allahbadia or his associates from airing any show on YouTube or any other audio/video visual mode of communication till further orders.

During the hearing, the Justice Kant-led Bench asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, the second highest law officer of the Centre, to consider regulating the content in online media.

We don't want any regulatory regime which leads to censorship, but it can't be a free for all, it said.

The apex court clarified that Allahbadias shows should not comment upon the proceedings that are sub judice.

Earlier, on February 18, the top court had stayed Allahbadias arrest subject to the condition that he would join the investigation, as and when summoned by the Investigating Officers.

The interim protection against arrest is granted further subject to the condition that the petitioner will extend full cooperation to the ongoing investigation, it had ordered.

The Supreme Court had added that no further FIR would be registered against Allahbadia based on the episode aired on the show India's Got Latent, for which two- three FIRs have already been registered.

Amid the controversy, Samay Raina had removed all videos of the show from YouTube, asserting that his intention was only to entertain and make people laugh.

Several complaints seeking legal action have been filed against popular YouTubers Samay Raina, Ranveer Allahbadia, Ashish Chanchlani, and Apoorva Mukhija over allegedly obscene and offensive remarks about parents in the comedy show India's Got Latent.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the incident has sparked a broader debate about the limits of comedy and the responsibility of content creators on digital platforms.
Israel announced on Sunday (local time) that it has stopped the entry of all humanitarian aid into Gaza until Hamas agrees to a US-backed extension of the ceasefire deal, following the expiration of phase one of the agreement on Saturday, Al Jazeera reported.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed that he supported a US proposal to temporarily extend the ceasefire during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover. The proposal includes the release of half of the hostages held in Gaza when the deal begins.

However, Hamas, which is demanding Israel's withdrawal from Gaza, immediately rejected the proposal, saying that Netanyahu and his government was carrying out "a blatant coup against the ceasefire deal" that had already been agreed, as per Al Jazeera.

The situation escalated quickly after Hamas' rejection, intensifying the stand-off over the ceasefire that had ended months of fighting in Gaza.

Netanyahu's office said Sunday that "in light of Hamas' refusal to accept the (US envoy Steve) Witkoff framework for continuing the talks -- which Israel had agreed to -- Prime Minister Netanyahu has decided that as of this morning, all entry of goods and supplies into the Gaza Strip will be stopped."

The Israeli Prime Minister's office (PMO) warned of "additional consequences" if Hamas continues to refuse to accept the proposal. Israel would not allow a ceasefire without the release of the remaining hostages, the statement added.

According Al Jazeera, Hamas has condemned Israel's decision to halt humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling it "cheap blackmail" and a "war crime." The group appealed to mediators to pressure Israel into ending what they described as "punitive and immoral measures."

There has been no response from Witkoff or the Trump Administration regarding the revised plan, nor confirmation of Israel's claim that the suspension of aid was agreed upon with Washington.

Egypt, one of the mediators in the ongoing hostage-ceasefire deal, also condemned Israel's actions. The Egyptian government stated it "unequivocally rejects the politicisation of humanitarian aid and its use as a tool of blackmail."

The first phase of the ceasefire, which saw the release of dozens of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, expired on Saturday.

The Israelis want phase one to continue - the exchange of hostages, alive and deceased, in return for the continued release of Palestinian prisoners and detainees, and the flow of higher volumes of aid into Gaza. There are thought to be 24 Israeli hostages still alive in Gaza.

Hamas is seeking negotiations on a permpulis aur bdmaashoN meN mutthbhedddh,ek bdmaash ke pair meN lgii golii,any saathii girphtaar hridvaaranent ceasefire and the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza under the second stage of the truce, accusing Israel of "ongoing manipulation" with its proposed extension of phase one.

Israeli foreign minister Gideon Sa'ar said Israel was prepared to continue negotiations "including for the second phase" in exchange for the release of hostages, but stipulated there was "no automatic transition between phases" under the initial agreement.

"As the first phase of the framework has ended - we have halted the entry of trucks into Gaza. We wouldn't do it for free," Saar said at a news conference on Sunday.
BENGALURU: The opposition BJP and JD(S) on Monday staged a protest against the ruling Congress in Karnataka, alleging that it was attempting to curtail the powers of the Governor. With placards and posters in hand, the opposition leaders took out a march from the Legislators' Home to Vidhana Soudha on Monday, coinciding with the start of the Legislature session, which will continue till March 21.

The members voiced their opposition to the government's alleged move to strip the Governor of his role as the Chancellor of the universities in Karnataka. BJP state president and Shikaripura MLA B Y Vijayendra, Leader of Opposition in the Karnataka Assembly R Ashoka, Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy and the MLAs and members of the legislative council took out a march from the MLAs' House to the Vidhan Soudha.

The protesters raised slogans such as Condemn the Congress for curtailing the Governor's authority despite the High Court upholding it' and Condemn the Congress government for cutting the Governor's chancellorship'. They also accused the Siddaramaiah government of "indulging in vile politics". Addressing reporters, Ashoka said the Constitution has granted special powers to the Governor and by taking away his powers, the state government was "undermining democracy".

The Congress has insulted Baba Saheb Bhimrao Ambedkar's Constitution by making maximum amendments. Now they want to take away Governor's powers as a chancellor of the university in the appointments and supervising his work, he alleged. The BJP has opposed the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to remove Governor's powers to appoint the Vice Chancellor of the RDPR University. The amendment was passed last year in December by the Karnataka legislature amid a walkout by the opposition. About a fortnight ago, Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot returned the amendment bill, seeking more clarity from the government.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is expected to announce details about the implementation of the Mahila Samriddhi Yojna on March 8. This scheme was one of the key promises made by the party during the Delhi Assembly election campaign. According to party leaders, work on defining the eligibility categories for the scheme, which offers financial assistance of Rs 2,500, will begin on the same day. Registrations for the scheme will also commence on March 8, and the process is expected to take around a month before the funds start being credited to beneficiaries' accounts. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari confirmed these developments while discussing the party's plans.

During the poll campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had promised that the scheme would be approved in the first cabinet meeting with the first payout on March 8. However, it did not seem to do as promised. The Aam Aadmi Party has been accusing the BJP government of fooling people by making false promises. On the other hand, the Delhi BJP has accused the previous AAP government of leaving the coffers empty.

Now, the question is, can the BJP and CM Rekha Gupta afford to delay the payout? The Aam Aadmi Party had promised Rs 1,000 monthly pay to women in Punjab which was not delivered even after two years in power. When the AAP made a similar promise in Delhi, the BJP was quick to point out the Punjab case where the AAP failed to deliver. The BJP's point seemed to have resonated with the voters as the AAP failed to get votes.

Now, the Bihar assembly elections are due in November where the opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal has already promised a similar scheme under Mai-Bahin Maan Yojana. The NDA is also likely to make a similar promise but if it fails to deliver in Delhi, the opposition would get a weapon against the BJP and it may hurt badly in the polls.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday made it clear that there would be no alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the upcoming days. He stated that there was neither any scope nor any need for such an alliance with the saffron party, emphasising that they have vastly different thoughts.

While addressing the media ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir budget session, Abdullah said, "... We are not talking about any alliance (with the BJP), neither is there any scope, nor the need. Our thoughts also do not align. If we talk about J&K, our thoughts are vastly different... We will hold discussions on everything (during the session)."
For many years, Kate Middleton, a member of the British royal family, has been impressing the public with her unsurpassed style, which often becomes a role model. Thus, Queen Consort Mary of Denmark was inspired by the shimmering image of the Princess of Wales and decided to recreate it at her annual arts and culture party.

ADVERTISIMENT

The wife of King Frederick X chose a spectacular fitted dress with a lot of sequins, which definitely did not go unnoticed by the guests. According to Hello, the impressive outfit of the Danish royal was created by British designer Jenny Packham. Kate Middleton wore a similar outfit at an evening reception for members of the diplomatic corps at Buckingham Palace in 2023.

It's worth noting that, apart from the extravagant dress, Their Highnesses' looks have a lot of identical details. For example, both Queen Mary and the Princess of Wales complemented their looks with shimmering pointed-toe shoes.

ADVERTISIMENT

The choice of accessories was similar. Prince William's wife attended the official event wearing an elegant tiara. The jewelry was made back in 1914 for Queen Mary, and at one time it was also a favorite element of Princess Diana's outfits. Queen Mary also added an elegant crown to her festive look. By the way, Their Highnesses chose earrings that are quite similar.

At an arts and culture party, the chosen one of King Frederick X appeared in front of the public with her hair down, and the front strands were removed from her face with a tiara. Kate Middleton once preferred a similar hairstyle. The only difference is that the Princess of Wales curled her hair a bit.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA reported that the wife of the Prince of Brunei repeated the "dazzling" image of Kate Middleton.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Maharashtra Budget session begins today amid speculations that everything is not going well within the ruling Mahayuti. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has skipped several meetings chaired by CM Devendra Fadnavis in the past and is said to be running a parallel government. However, the Mahayuti leaders on Sunday led a show of unity as they addressed a joint press conference on the eve of the Budget session.

Speaking to reporters, both Shinde and Fadnavis ruled out any rift in Mahayuti. "we are together...There is tension and resentment among the opposition," said Fadnavis, adding that the opposition leaders are struggling to find issues against the ruling regime.

On the other hand, Shinde said that there is no cold war as reported by the media and the Mahayuti stands united. "This is the second session of our government. Only we (Devendra Fadnavis and I) have changed roles. But yes, Ajit Dada's role is constant...We have started many projects that were stopped by the MVA government. Ajit Dada will present the Maharashtra budget. No matter how much breaking news you give, we (Mahayuti) will not break. What is the Cold War? There is nothing like that. In this scorching heat of Maharashtra... how is a cold war possible?" Shinde said.

The press conference witnessed the cracking of jokes and the exchange of pleasantries among three Mahayuti leaders - Fadnavis, Shinde and Ajit Pawar. The budget session of the state legislature is starting tomorrow. This is the second session of the Grand Alliance government and the first budget session of the new government after the assembly election. Only two of us (Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis) have swapped the chairs but Ajit Pawar's chair (as the Deputy Chief Minister) is fixed, said Shinde.

Even before Shinde could complete his sentence, Ajit Pawar took his mike in his hands and replied, You (Eknath Shinde) could not protect your chair and keep your chair (of the Chief Minister's post) fixed, what can I do about it. That led to laughter in the auditorium as the trio also burst into laughter and enjoyed the moment.

Shinde, who headed the MahaYuti government between June 2022 and November 2024, aspired to continue as the chief minister after MahaYuti formed the government, following its stellar performance. However, Fadnavis, who joined Shinde's government as the deputy chief minister at the directives of the party's senior leadership, took over as the chief minister in the wake of the emergency of the BJP as the single largest party.

Shinde was left with no choice but to join as the Deputy Chief Minister along with Ajit Pawar. In this contest, Shinde made his statement today reiterating that despite the change in posts, the MahaYuti is quite strong and united. Fadnavis also came to Shinde's support saying that they are working as a team to take Maharashtra forward. Our chair is rotating one, he said.
Mumbai: Sudhanshu Pandey, who gained immense popularity as Vanraj Shah in Anupamaa, left fans surprised when he announced his exit from the show in 2024. His sudden departure sparked several speculations, including rumours of a fallout with co-star Rupali Ganguly. Now, the actor has finally broken his silence, setting the record straight about his decision and addressing the buzz surrounding his exit.

Speaking on SCREENs Dear Me, Sudhanshu explained why he chose to personally announce his departure on social media rather than letting the news come from other sources. I owed it to my audience. Vanraj Shah became a character people connected with deeply, and I didnt want them to be blindsided. I felt it was my responsibility to let them know that I was stepping away, he shared.

The actor also dismissed claims of a rift with Rupali Ganguly, emphasizing that their bond remains intact despite the ongoing rumours. People love creating stories, but that doesnt make them true. Whatever I said about my exit was my perspective, and it was 100 per cent the truth. There is no bad blood between Rupali and me. We were just chatting the other day. She messaged me on Instagram, and we had a fun little back-and-forth, he clarified.

While fans continue to hope for Vanrajs return, Sudhanshu has made it clear that he has moved on from the show. During a recent Instagram Live session, he confirmed that he has no plans of making a comeback. I have given four fantastic years to Anupamaa, and I will cherish this journey forever. But returning to the show is not on the cards, he stated.

With his chapter in Anupamaa now closed, fans eagerly await to see what Sudhanshu Pandey takes on next in his career.
Mumbai: Bollywood actor Aparshakti Khurana, known for his memorable supporting roles in films like Luka Chuppi and Stree, recently opened up about an incident that left him feeling sidelined. In a candid interview, the actor revealed that he travelled from Amritsar to Mumbai solely to attend the trailer launch of a film he was a part of. However, much to his disappointment, he was told at the last minute that he wouldnt be joining the lead cast on stage.

Aparshakti further shared that he was assured a separate introduction during the event. However, despite waiting for 1520 minutes, the trailer launch concluded, and he was never called on stage. The revelation has since sparked curiosity among netizens, who are speculating which film and lead actor he was referring to.

Given Aparshaktis filmography, many believe the incident could have taken place during the trailer launch of Luka Chuppi, where Kartik Aaryan played the lead, or Stree 2, which stars Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao. The discussion has led to a divided opinion online, with some fans pointing fingers at Kartik, while others wonder if Shraddha or the event organizers were responsible.

Social media users have been actively debating the situation, with many expressing disappointment over the treatment of supporting actors in Bollywood.

Aparshakti has not named anyone directly, and it remains unclear which films trailer launch he was referring to. However, his revelation has once again highlighted the issue of how Bollywood often overlooks supporting actors despite their significant contributions to a films success.
Mumbai: Katrina Kaifs recent visit to the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj took an unfortunate turn when a video surfaced online showing a group of men secretly recording her during her holy dip at Triveni Sangam. The footage, which quickly went viral, captured them making inappropriate comments while filming the actress without her consent. The incident sparked outrage on social media, with many condemning the lack of respect for privacy.

Actress Raveena Tandon, who was also present at the Mahakumbh, did not hold back in expressing her anger. Commenting on a post that shared the video, she called out the behaviour, writing, This is disgusting. These kinds of people ruin a moment that is meant to be peaceful and meaningful. Her reaction resonated with many, adding to the widespread criticism of the mens actions.

In the video, two men can be seen recording themselves before turning the camera toward Katrina Kaif as she takes a dip. One of them mockingly states, Ye main hu, ye mera bhai hai, aur ye Katrina Kaif (This is me, this is my brother, and this is Katrina Kaif), prompting laughter from those around them. Their disrespectful approach has drawn widespread backlash, with many calling it a blatant invasion of privacy.

Social media users were quick to condemn the behaviour. One comment read, This is so wrong. Mass bullying in the name of fun. Another user wrote, Absolutely disrespectful. Let people pray in peace. Many also praised Raveena for speaking up, with some urging stricter action against such invasions of privacy.

While Katrina has not addressed the incident publicly, the viral video has reignited conversations about celebrity privacy and the need for greater respect, even in public spaces.
Mumbai: Actor Parzan Dastur, who essayed the role of the kid in the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, has made an appearance in the latest brand film for Bollywood superstars IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders.

On Monday, SRK took to the Stories section of his instagram, and shared the video. The promotional video was pegged on KKRs three title wins in the IPL. Towards the end of the video Parzan Dastur also makes an appearance harping back to his character in the film counting the stars.

Meanwhile, Dil To Pagal Hai starring SRK was re-released recently. The film, which also starred Madhuri Dixit and Karisma Kapoor, was directed by legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, and bagged three National Awards. At the 45th National Film Awards, the film won 3 awards, including Best Popular Film. Karisma Kapoors performance as Nisha won her the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress.

The film is known for its soulful music, mesmerizing dance sequences, and unforgettable dialogues, and remains a cult favorite among fans of Bollywood romance. The film follows the love lives of the members of a musical troupe, in which two dancers (Madhuri Dixit and Karisma Kapoor) get entangled in a love triangle with their choreographer (played by SRK). The soundtrack was composed by Uttam Singh, and the lyrics were penned by Anand Bakshi.

The film was the second of Yash Chopra's 4 consecutive films to star Shah Rukh Khan as the male lead. The other two were Veer-Zara and his last directorial Jab Tak Hai Jaan. Dil To Pagal Hai was the third film to feature SRK opposite Madhuri Dixit, after Anjaam and Koyla.

Sridevi was initially offered to play the role of Pooja, but she declined as she did not find her role as substantial as that in Lamhe, and the role eventually went to Madhuri. The film also starred Akshay Kumar in a cameo bringing the rare instance when two superstars of Hindi cinema from Delhi shared the screen.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra And Xiaomi 15 India Launch: Chinese smartphone brand Xiaomi has introduced its latest flagship devices, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15, at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025. The new Xiaomi 15 series features a Leica-tuned camera and runs on HyperOS 2, built on Android 15. Notably, they are the direct follow-ups to last years Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Ultra, which were highly praised for their Leica-powered optics.

Adding further, the Xiaomi 15 series also features AI tools for writing, speech recognition, image enhancement and video shooting. The company has partnered with Google to integrate Gemini directly with Xiaomi apps with access to Xiaomi Notes, Calendar, and Clock.

Xiaomi 15 will be available in three colour options: black, green, and white, while the Xiaomi 15 Ultra could launch only in a silver chrome colourway. Both the Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 are powered by Qualcomms latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Running on Android 15 with Xiaomis HyperOS 2.0, the smartphones also come with ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanners and IP68-rated dust and water resistance.

#Xiaomi15 is set to revolutionize mobile innovation with its leading camera, ultra-thin display, top performance, and connectivity.#XiaomiLaunch pic.twitter.com/0Rb43ecChm  Xiaomi (@Xiaomi) March 2, 2025

Xiaomi 15 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 India Launch Date And Availability

Xiaomi has announced that the Xiaomi 15 and Xiaomi 15 Ultra will launch in India on March 11. The smartphones will be available for purchase through Amazon India, Xiaomis official website, and other retail outlets.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra Specifications (Expected)

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to feature a 6.73-inch QHD+ AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 3,200 nits. It could come with 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth and powerful performance.

For photography enthusiasts, the device is set to offer a quad-camera setup, including a 200MP Leica telephoto lens, a 50MP primary Leica camera, a 50MP ultra-wide Leica camera, and a 32MP front-facing selfie shooter, promising top-tier imaging capabilities.

Xiaomi 15 Specifications (Expected)

The Xiaomi 15 comes with a more compact 6.36-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, supporting a 120Hz refresh rate and 3,200 nits of peak brightness. The smartphone is expected to launch in India with 12GB of RAM.

On the camera front, it is equipped with a triple-camera setup, featuring a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, a 50MP telephoto lens, and a 32MP selfie camera.
Following Donald Trump's presidency, tensions between Canada and its Supreme Court Chief Justice have intensified. Trump has openly criticized Chief Justice Richard Wagner and even urged Canadian governors to oppose him. However, these attacks have inadvertently benefited Canada's ruling Liberal Party. US President Donald Trump has also asked Canada to become the 51st state of the US, a call vociferously opposed by Justin Trudeau.

According to a recent survey, the Liberal Party has secured 38% support, while the opposition Conservative Party has 36%. This marks a shift from six weeks ago when the Conservatives led with 46% support, compared to 42% for the Liberals.

Public sentiment has also seen notable changes. Six weeks ago, only 12% of respondents favoured the Liberal Party, but its popularity has since surged to 26%. During this period, the Conservative Party has lost 2% of its support.

Political analysts believe that despite Trump's vocal opposition to Canada's leadership, there has been no significant backlash against the Liberal government. Instead, the ruling party has gained traction, especially among voters who oppose Trump's ideology.

Another recent Leger poll further reinforces this trend, showing 38% support for the Liberal Party, compared to 35% for the Conservatives. Similarly, in another survey, 38% of respondents supported the Liberals, while 37% backed the Conservatives.

The narrowing gap between the two major parties suggests a competitive political landscape in Canada, with the Liberals currently holding a slight advantage. If Trump continues to target Canada and its leaders, the public sentiment will once again help the Liberal Party regain power in the coming national elections.
The ongoing trade war between the United States and China has triggered global economic uncertainty, affecting tariffs, financial markets, and international trade. What began as an attempt to address trade imbalances has escalated into a prolonged conflict reshaping global commerce.

US Tariffs and China's Retaliation

President Donald Trump has imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, prompting strong reactions from Beijing. Chinese officials have criticized the move, calling it a 'Cold War mentality,' and warned that it could disrupt global trade.

Additionally, China has accused the US of using the fentanyl crisis to further escalate tensions. Chinese authorities claim the US is unfairly blaming China for its opioid crisis and have threatened countermeasures.

China has responded to US tariffs by tightening export controls on crucial rare minerals like tungsten, which are vital for industries such as aerospace, defense, electronics, and energy.

In December 2024, Beijing had already banned the sale of dual-use goods and critical minerals to the US. Earlier that year, China restricted the export of gallium and germanium, key metals used in semiconductors, electric vehicles, and telecommunications. The government also imposed curbs on certain types of graphite, further complicating supply chains for global manufacturers.

Why Did Trump Start the Trade War

Trump first imposed tariffs on Chinese goods in 2018 to reduce the US trade deficit. He argued that China was exporting far more to the US than it imported, putting American industries at a disadvantage. His administration aimed to protect US manufacturing jobs by making Chinese imports more expensive.

Beyond the trade deficit, Trumps advisors have accused China of unfair trade practices, including intellectual property theft, forced technology transfers, and state subsidies that give Chinese firms an unfair edge. The tariffs were intended to pressure China into changing these practices and improving protections for intellectual property.

Will India Benefit From US-China Trade War

As the US imposed tariffs on Chinese goods, many global businesses sought alternative suppliers, creating opportunities for India. Indian exports to the US, particularly in electronics, textiles, and chemicals, saw a sharp rise.

According to experts, Indian exporters received higher orders due to uncertainty over Chinese imports. The electronics sector, in particular, benefited. A report by Oxford Economics noted a significant rise in Indias share of US electronics imports from 2017 to 2023, with companies like Apple expanding their manufacturing operations in the country.

However, India faces challenges in more advanced technology sectors like semiconductors, where competitors like South Korea and Taiwan hold stronger positions. Additionally, India remains dependent on Chinese components for several key products, including smartphones, limiting its ability to fully replace China in global supply chains.

Global Economic Risks

The US-China trade war has created instability in global markets, with potential long-term consequences. China's dominance in rare earth minerals and electronic components could give it leverage in future

trade disputes. Additionally, fears of a large-scale sell-off of US Treasury bonds by China could further shake the global financial system.

As the conflict drags on, businesses and governments worldwide are forced to adapt to shifting trade policies and supply chain disruptions. While some nations like India have gained in certain sectors, the overall uncertainty in global trade remains high.
Tel Aviv: The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) reported that, earlier on Sunday, an Israel Air Force aircraft attacked two suspects in the southern Gaza Strip who were spotted near IDF forces and posed a threat to them. The IDF is again calling on the residents of Gaza to obey the IDF's instructions, not to approach the forces deployed in the area and to pass through the agreed checkpoints.

Amid widespread devastation and family losses, Palestinians in the Gaza Strip welcomed this year's holy month of Ramadan with heavy hearts and weary bodies, following 15 months of Israeli assault on the besieged enclave. While Muslims around the world welcomed Ramadan with prayer and festivity, the scene in Gaza tells a different story.

Gaza's streets, once vibrant and full of life, now lie in ruins. The rubble of destroyed homes stands as a haunting reminder of the devastation, while the air is thick with the smell of gunpowder, death, and decay. With the first phase of the ceasefire between Palestinians and Israel having ended on Saturday and no sign of a second phase, Gazans now live in heightened anxiety, fearing the war could resume at any moment, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Every day that passes without shelling brings a sense of relief. But at the same time we live in fear that the attacks will start again," said Om Mohammed al-Najjar from Khan Younis, southern Gaza. She lost her home in the recent bombardment. "We have suffered enough. Ramadan should be a time of peace, but here, there is no peace," she said. Mohammed Al-Dahdouh, a 45-year-old father of four from Gaza City, recalled how his family joyously decorated their home with lanterns and vibrant colors. The kitchen would be filled with the delicious aroma of maqluba and qatayef, traditional Middle Eastern dishes, and laughter would echo throughout the house.

"Ramadan used to mean family gatherings around the iftar table, the sound of children's laughter, and the smell of food filling the house," Al-Dahdouh told Xinhua. "Now, there is no home, no table. We are crammed into a small tent, and the food we have barely suffices," he added. "We cling to life because we have no other choice. We are people who love life, and we have the right to live in peace and safety," he said.

In the northern Gaza town of Beit Lahia, Suzanne Abdel-Ati strolls between the tents standing on open land, exchanging greetings with her new neighbours, most of whom are displaced like herself. "During the war, the army killed my entire family, and now I am left with only two children," Abdel-Ati told Xinhua.

She recalled the days when her family would gather each night to break the fast. "Now, they lie beneath the earth," she added quietly. Tasaheel Nassar, a Palestinian woman from Rafah city who lost her husband, brothers, and parents in an Israeli airstrike, told Xinhua, "The holy Ramadan month has lost its spirit here in Gaza. There are no lanterns, no decorations, no bustling markets. Instead, there is death's silence and the ever-present smell of destruction."

"Our loved ones are gone, and we no longer have the strength to carry on," she said, adding, "The pain is constant, and now it is worse because the holy Ramadan month brings memories of the family I lost." Some Gazans choose not to surrender. Thirty-five-year-old Arkan Radi from Deir al-Balah in central Gaza, along with his friends, has hung some Ramadan decorations in their tent.

"We know that the decorations won't change our reality," Radi says, "but they are a message that we are still here, still holding on to life, even in the darkest times. It's not a solution, but I want to bring some hope and joy to my children." (Agencies)
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni remains "extremely skeptical" about sending European troops to Ukraine and does not share the corresponding proposal of Great Britain and France, Italian media reported on Monday.

On Sunday, Meloni attended a Leaders' Summit in London, which saw the participation of more than a dozen European heads of state and the Canadian Prime Minister to discuss a peace plan for Ukraine following a week of intense diplomatic talks.

The Italian PM held bilateral meetings with the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Keir Starmer, and the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky.

The meeting allowed to reaffirm Italy's support for Ukraine and its people and the commitment, together with European and Western partners and the United States, to build a just and lasting peace, which ensures a future of sovereignty, security and freedom for Ukraine, read a statement issued by the Italian PM's office after Meloni's meeting Zelensky.

The leading Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that Meloni asserted that Rome is ready to participate in such a joint European mission in Ukraine only if it is under the auspices of the United Nations and on the condition that the hostilities end.

Regarding the unsuccessful negotiations of Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington, which ended in a squabble with US President Donald Trump, Meloni said that she regrets what happened in the Oval Office, but it should not be turned into "a clash of fans" by taking sides.

During the meeting, Meloni also stressed the importance of unity in the West, proposing to host a summit between European leaders and the US to improve ties after the relationship between the long-time allies strained over the war in Ukraine
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will meet with King Charles III, the country's head of state, on Monday where he will discuss US President Donald Trump's threats to make Canada the 51st state.

The king has come under criticism in Canada for being silent about Trump's threats to annex Canada.

Trudeau said in London on Sunday he will discuss matters of importance to Canadians with Charles and said "nothing seems more important to Canadians right now than standing up for our sovereignty and our independence as a nation. Charles is the head of state in Canada, which is a member of the British Commonwealth of former colonies.

Overall, the antiroyal movement in Canada is small, but the silence of the monarch on Trump's threats have spurred talk in recent days.

Former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said for Canadians disappointed that King Charles has not commented on Trump's threats he can only act on the advice of Canada's prime minister.

The Government of Canada should ask the Head of State to underscore Canadian sovereignty, Kenney posted on X.

The king, who met Sunday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has invited Trump to come to Scotland for a state visit.

Great news that the Prime Minister will be having an audience with the King of Canada tomorrow. Hopefully this result in the King making a statement regarding his Canadian Realm, constitutional lawyer Lyle Skinner posed on X.

Academic Philippe Lagasse said the UK government will likely fight possible advice from Trudeau for the king to speak out on Canada's behalf but Daniel Beland, a political science professor at McGill University in Montreal, said many Canadians would want a public statement from the king and they might be mad if that doesn't happen.

Beland said he hopes Trudeau raises it with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer first.

"This is a highly delicate diplomatic matter and these three players must tread very carefully, not only because of the tense international context and President Trump's potential negative public reaction but also because any mistake here could hurt the image and political legitimacy of the monarchy," Beland said.

Though Canadians are somewhat indifferent to the monarchy, many had great affection for the late Queen Elizabeth, whose silhouette marks their coins. She was the head of state for more than 40% of Canada's existence and visited the country 22 times as monarch.

Visits by Charles over the years have attracted sparse crowds.

Canadians will need to decide what purpose King Charles III serves as King of Canada if he can't even speak up for our sovereignty, Artur Wilczynski, a former Canadian public servant, posted on X.

Abolishing the monarchy would mean changing the constitution. That's an inherently risky undertaking, given how delicately it is engineered to unite a nation of 41 million people that embraces English-speakers, French-speakers, Indigenous tribes and a constant flow of new immigrants.
London: Prime Minister Keir Starmer updated Parliament on Monday about the outcomes of a key European summit he hosted in London over the weekend, stressing that the UK will play a leading role in securing peace for ally Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.

His address led to a rare display of unity across all sections of the House of Commons, with the Opposition Conservatives praising the Labour leader for his efforts to rally European Union (EU) leaders towards a coalition of the willing against the backdrop of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyys White House showdown with US President Donald Trump.

Starmer expressed his discomfort over the clash as something nobody in this House wants to see but went on to assert that the UK-US alliance remains indispensable.

Britain will play a leading role in securing peace for Ukraine with, if necessary, and together with others, boots on the ground and planes in the air," Starmer told MPs.

"But to succeed, this effort must also have strong US backing...I do want to be crystal clear  we must strengthen our relationship with America, for our security, for our technology, for our trade and investment. They are, and always will be indispensable, and we will never choose between either side of the Atlantic, he said.

In fact, if anything, the past week has shown that the idea is totally unserious, because while some people may enjoy the simplicity of taking a side, this week has shown with total clarity that the US is vital in securing the peace we all want to see in Ukraine, he added.

The address came after a weekend of frenetic diplomacy led by the UK, during which it agreed to work with France "on a plan to stop the fighting", before it can be discussed with the US.

At the summit, Starmer announced a four-point plan to work with Ukraine to end the war and bolster the UKs defence against Russia.

The plan involves including Ukraine in talks, continuing to supply it with military aid, boosting its defence capabilities and building a "coalition of the willing" to defend a deal to end the fighting.

However, apart from increasing defence spending, further consensus on a peace plan is still being thrashed out by leaders across Europe. UK Defence Secretary John Healey is expected to visit the US later this week to move forward the discussions to secure American backing for an agreed European peace plan.

Meanwhile, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves signed off a GBP 2.26 billion loan scheme to help Ukraine buy weapons and fund its reconstruction after the war. Starmer later announced a further GBP 1.6 billion for missiles for Ukraine.

Zelenskyyy welcomed Europes unequivocal backing, reiterating calls for an American security guarantee to any peace deal with Russia even as he sought to placate Trump by stressing on the importance of America.

He said: We are grateful for all the support weve received from the United States. There has not been a day when we havent felt gratitude. Its gratitude for the preservation of our independence  our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us  and for their own security.

What we need is peace, not endless war. And thats why we say security guarantees are the key to this.
New Delhi: An Indian woman sentenced to death in Abu Dhabi for allegedly murdering a four-month-old child was executed on February 15, the Delhi High Court was informed on Monday. The revelation came during the hearing of a petition filed by her father, who was seeking information about her well-being.

Justice Sachin Datta, after learning about the execution, called it "very unfortunate."

"It is over. She was executed on February 15. Her last rites will be held on March 5," Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma told the court.

Familys Struggle For Information

During the hearing, the petitioner's counsel said the family only wanted to know if she was alive or had been hanged.

He mentioned that Shahzadi called her family from prison on February 14. She informed them she would be executed in a day or two and that it would be her last call. Since then, they had no information about her condition.

The Centre's counsel told the court that embassy officials were in touch with the petitioner. He said arrangements were being made for the family to attend her last rites in Abu Dhabi.

"We did our best. We hired a law firm to represent her in court. But the laws there deal with the murder of an infant very severely," he submitted.

Case Background

The petition stated that on February 14, 2025, Shahzadi called her father from detention. She said she had been moved within the facility and wanted to speak with her parents before her execution.

Shabbir Khan later submitted an application to the MEA on February 21, 2025, seeking confirmation on whether his daughter was still alive or had been executed.

The woman, Shahzadi Khan, was handed over to Abu Dhabi police on February 10, 2023. She was sentenced to death on July 31, 2023, and was held in Al Wathba jail.

Her father, Shabbir Khan, a resident of Banda in Uttar Pradesh, said he had been seeking clarity on his daughter's situation. He claimed that despite multiple applications to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), he received no clear response.

The petition alleged that Shahzadi was not properly represented in the local courts. It claimed she was pressured into confessing, which led to her death sentence.

Events Leading To The Case

Shahzadi had traveled to Abu Dhabi in December 2021 on a legal visa. In August 2022, her employer gave birth to a son, and she was hired as the childs caregiver.

On December 7, 2022, the infant received routine vaccinations. He passed away the same evening.

The petition claimed that the infants parents refused to allow a post-mortem and signed an agreement waiving further investigation into the death.

Despite this, Shahzadi was arrested and later sentenced to death.

Her family continues to seek justice and closure after her execution.

(With PTI inputs)
A Turkish Airlines DC10 has crashed near Paris killing all 345 people on board.

The plane was on a regular flight from Ankara to London via Paris. It came down just minutes after take-off at 1235 GMT, scything a mile-long trail through the forest of Ermenonville.

Among the victims were 200 passengers, many of them British, who had been transferred from British Airways flights cancelled because of a strike by engineers at London airport.

No-one was killed on the ground, although the forest is popular with walkers.

Only blackened stumps of trees remained where the pilot had probably attempted a crash landing. Bits of clothing and other wreckage from the plane were strewn across the whole area.

Hundreds of rescue workers, from the Red Cross, Protection Civile as well as fire and ambulance crews, were on the scene within half an hour.

But there was no-one to be rescued. All that remained to be done was to collect the bodies and take them to the church of St Pierre at Senlis.

From there, soldiers transferred the bodies onto army vehicles during the night to be driven to the medical centre in Paris, where they will be examined by forensic scientists.

Eyewitnesses in the nearby village of St Pathu said they heard an explosion and saw flames coming from the plane long before it plunged into the forest.

Some bodies were found close to the village, about six miles from the crash site, which also suggests the plane may have exploded in mid-air.

Crash investigators looking for clues to the worlds worst air disaster to date will start by studying the jets engines. They are also looking for the black box flight recorder.

The possibility of sabotage has not been discounted.

Among the victims were 17 members of Bury St Edmunds rugby club, returning from a trip to Paris.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

British trade union leader James Conway, general secretary of the Amalgamated Union of Engineering Workers, an Olympic silver medallist and four leading London models were among those killed in the crash. The final death toll was 346.

The Paris crash was the worst in aviation history up to this date and the first involving a fully-loaded wide-bodied jet since they had entered passenger service four years before.

The accident was probably caused by a cargo door coming open during the flight, leading to a sudden loss of pressure inside the cabin and causing part of the flooring to collapse which damaged the controls and made it impossible for the crew to regain control.

An almost identical accident had happened in June 1972 when a DC10 lost its rear cargo door, causing the floor to buckle and jam some of the controls. Safety recommendations made following that crash had not been implemented.
On February 9, 2025, Sierra Leonean President, Dr. Julius Maada Bio cordially received all members of the 25th China Medical Team to Sierra Leone at the Presidential Residence. Chinese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Mr.Wang Qing and his wife, and Ministerial Counselor, Mr.Zhang Dianbin of the Chinese Embassy attended the meeting.

On behalf of the government and people of Sierra Leone,President Bio extended sincere New Year greetings for the Year of the Snake to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese government and people. He highly praised the traditional friendly relations between China and Sierra Leone, thanked the 25th China medical team to Sierra Leone for its positive contribution to improving the health and well-being of the people of Sierra Leone and promoting the medical and health cooperation between the two countries, and particularly commended the positive results achieved by the medical team in promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine in Sierra Leone. He hoped that Traditional Chinese Medicine could continue to play a role in Sierra Leone and benefit more people.

Ambassador Wang Qing said that health cooperation has always been the focus and highlight of China-Sierra Leone practical cooperation. The 25th China Medical Aid Team has been vigorously promoting the spirit of the China Medical Teams, benefits the Sierra Leonean people with benevolence and medical skills, and has played a positive role in promoting friendly cooperation between the two countries and promoting people-to -people exchanges. China will work with Sierra Leone to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state on deepening China-Sierra Leone health cooperation, and help the China-Sierra Leone comprehensive strategic partnership to make new progress.

The 25th China medical team briefed President Bio on their performance of holding spirit of the China medical team in the past year since its arrival in Sierra Leone, which is "fearless of hardship, willing to make sacrifices, saving lives and helping the wounded, and spreading boundless love", shared that they had provided meticulous medical services to the Sierra Leonean people, carried out free medical consultations in many remote rural areas, and trained a number of medical personnel for Sierra Leone.

China has been sending medical teams to Sierra Leone since 1973, and has so far sent 25 batches of more than 500 medical personnel organized by Hunan Province. In the latest one year since the 25th medical team arrived in Sierra Leone, it has treated around 24,000 patients, performed more than 800 operations, and conducted more than 80 free clinics in communities.




Although the cross-Strait situation remains stable, thanks to the strategic restraint Beijing exercises, the secessionist-minded Democratic Progressive Party authorities on Taiwan island have never stopped trying to make waves by proving their value to their external backers.

With the return of the America first fixated Donald Trump administration, the Lai Ching-te authorities of the island are focused on using economic interests to woo the administrations support for their secessionist cause. In their latest move in that regard, the DPP unveiled a plan to build a non-red supply chain with the United States at the expense of the islands competitive industry and development prospects.

Taiwans semiconductor sector and dominant enterprises, the core competitiveness of the island, are to be employed as the means to meet their narrow ends.

The eagerness of the Lai authorities to cater to the Trump administration, whose coveting of the islands semiconductor industry is no secret, with their paycheck policy has met with wide opposition of the sector but garnered some positive responses from the US administration.

Shortly after Lai pledged to boost investment in the US under the excuse it was responding to the Trump administrations global tariff threats, the US administration released $5.3 billion in previously frozen foreign aid, including $870 million in security exemptions for programs in the Chinese island, late last week.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed Washingtons opposition to any change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, while saying that the US remains committed to its long-standing policies on Taiwan.

Yet the Lai authorities must be aware that the new administration stops short of mentioning such words as values, democracy or freedom that dominated its predecessors statements on Taiwan. Instead, the emphasis is on investment, tariffs and industries. That requires the DPP authorities to ceaselessly increase their input and adjust their expectations of the US side.

The shock waves caused by the US about-face in its foreign and economic policies over the past month must have kept the Lai authorities in an extremely uneasy state. And the price Ukraine now faces for the US support should give the DPP authorities cause for thought as they should realize that the price for the US backing has risen steeply.

What the DPP authorities value the most is the US reiterating of its commitment to protect Taiwan in case of emergency. But what the US seems to be willing to promise so far is that it will prevent the emergency from happening rather than it will protect the island.

So Trumps refusal to answer a question from the media about whether the US would allow China to take control of Taiwan by force ahead of the first official Cabinet meeting of his second term on Wednesday must have dealt a heavy blow to the expectant Lai authorities.

Responding to that question, Trump said, I never comment on that. I dont want to ever put myself in that position. And Taipeis unease will only have been further heightened by Trumps claim of his great relations with his Chinese counterpart, and the unquestioned openness of the US leader to strengthen economic and trade cooperation with the mainland.

That means, which should also be to the delight of the Trump administration, the Lai authorities will have to raise their stakes in the risky gambling. But the question is after offering even the jewel in the crown of the islands economy in the first month of the new US administration being in office, what else can they use to pay tribute to their imagined backers in Washington during the rest of their tenure. [Abridged]

Editorial, China Daily
European leaders pledged late Friday to stand by Ukraine in the wake of the contentious Oval Office meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with their statements in support of their neighbor on the continent ensuring a deepening transatlantic rift.

European leaders already were shaken by Vances speech to the Munich Security Conference two weeks ago in which he lectured them about the state of their democracy. As prime ministers and presidents across the continent scrambled to respond, they have held a series of emergency summits to discuss security.

Another major summit was scheduled yesterday in London, hosted by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer. More than a dozen European and EU leaders, including Zelenskyy, will gather for a meeting meant to drive forward action on Ukraine and security.

Starmer spoke with both Trump and Zelenskyy on Friday and maintained his strong support for Ukraine, his office said in a statement.

He retains unwavering support for Ukraine, and is doing all he can to find a path forward to a lasting peace based on sovereignty and security for Ukraine, the statement said.

The European leaders comments Friday largely did not mention Trump or Vance, but rather sought to assure Ukraine of their support as the war with Russia enters its fourth year. Zelenskyy re-posted their comments on X, writing thank you for your support to each  likely a dig at the Trump administration.

During the extraordinary meeting Friday in Washington, Trump chided Zelenskyy after Vance, one of the administrations most skeptical voices on Ukraine, said he was being disrespectful for debating Trump in the Oval Office in front of the American media.

Have you said thank you once? Vance asked Zelenskyy.

The Ukrainian president said four times during the course of their exchange that he was thankful or had already expressed his thanks.

Trump then called off the signing of a minerals deal that he said would have moved Ukraine closer to ending its war with Russia. Zelenskyy left the White House shortly after Trump shouted at him, showing open disdain. The White House said the Ukrainian delegation was told to leave.

A senior Ukrainian official said Zelenskyy spoke to French President Emmanuel Macron, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and President of the European Council Antonio Costa after he left the White House, describing all the conversations as supportive of the Ukrainian leader. The official, who is familiar with the matter, requested anonymity because he was not authorized to comment publicly.

Italys Premier Giorgia Meloni, however, proposed an immediate summit between the United States and European allies to speak frankly about how we intend to face todays great challenges, starting with Ukraine. She urged the West to stay united.

Every division of the West makes us all weaker and favors those who would like to see the decline of our civilization, she said. A division would not benefit anyone.

Some posts on X were directed to Zelenskyy. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told him your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone, dear President.

And Friedrich Merz, Germanys likely next chancellor, wrote: Dear Volodymyr @zelenskyyua, we stand with #Ukraine in good and in testing times. We must never confuse aggressor and victim in this terrible war.

The victory for Merzs party yesterday in Germanys national election ensured that Ukraine has an even stronger supporter in the European Unions largest country. Merz during the campaign promised to unite Europe in the face of challenges from both Russia and the United States.

But Alice Weidel, co-leader of the far-right, anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany party and one of Merzs challengers, wrote Historic. Trump & Vance! on X with a link to a video of the meeting. AfDs platform calls for the immediate lifting of sanctions against Russia and opposes weapons deliveries to Ukraine. Weidel also met with Vance in Munich.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban praised Trump for his conduct in the Oval Office, casting Zelenskyy as working against peace in his own country.

Strong men make peace, weak men make war, Orban wrote on X. Today President Donald Trump stood bravely for peace. Even if it was difficult for many to digest. Thank you, Mr. President!

Orban is a consistent backer of the Kremlin and has been outspokenly antagonistic against neighboring Ukraine. After winning the last Hungarian elections in 2022, less than six weeks after Russias full-scale invasion, he cited Zelenskyy as one of the opponents he had defeated in the campaign.

Meanwhile in Estonia, which borders Russia, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said the only obstacle to peace is Russian President Vladimir Putins decision to continue the war.

It is time for Europe to step up, Tsahkna said in a statement. We do not need to wait for something else to happen; Europe has enough resources, including Russias frozen assets, to enable Ukraine to continue fighting.

And Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristerssons reminded Ukraine of whats at stake for the Nordic and Baltic countries, and others, if Russias aggression spreads.

You are not only fighting for your freedom but also for all of Europes, Kristersson wrote on X. European officials from Austria, he Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland and Spain, among others, also offered their support to Ukraine. STEFANIE DAZIO & SUSIE BLANN, BERLIN, MDT/AP
Muslims in Indonesia are shopping for sweets and new clothes and taking part in traditional festivities as millions observe the holy month of Ramadan, which started on Saturday.

Celebrations in the worlds most populous Muslim-majority country range from colorful nighttime parades and cleaning family graves to preparing food for predawn breakfasts and elaborate post-sundown meals known as iftars.

Each region in the vast archipelago nation of 17,000 islands has its own way to mark the start of Ramadan, when Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual intercourse from sunrise until sunset for the whole month.

Even a tiny sip of water or a puff of smoke is enough to invalidate the fast. At night, family and friends gather and feast in a festive atmosphere.

Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar announced on Friday that Ramadan will begin on Saturday, after the sighting of the crescent moon was confirmed by Islamic astronomy observers in Indonesias westernmost province of Aceh.

Shortly after the announcement, mosques flooded with devotees offering evening prayers known as tarawih on the first eve of Ramadan. In Jakartas Istiqlal Grand Mosque, the largest in Southeast Asia, tens of thousands of worshippers crammed together shoulder-to-shoulder.

The daylong fasting is aimed at bringing the faithful closer to God and reminding them of the suffering of the poor. Muslims are expected to strictly observe daily prayers and engage in heightened religious contemplation. They are also urged to refrain from gossip, fighting or cursing during the holy month.

Flares, drums and tradition

Samsul Anwar, his wife and their 8-year-old nephew were among hundreds of people taking part in a torchlight parade along the streets of their neighborhood in Tangerang, a city just outside the capital of Jakarta, on Wednesday after evening prayers.

They carried torches, lit flares and played Islamic songs accompanied by the beat of rebana, the Arabic handheld percussion instrument, as they walked along the cramped streets of the densely populated neighborhood.

Every year we welcome Ramadan with a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation, said Anwar.

Chinese Indonesian communities also participated in the parade by performing the vibrant barongsai or lion dance, a prominent part of Chinese New Year celebration, to the sound of drums and trumpets.

The barongsai performance was also held to show unity between the religious communities of Chinese and Muslim, aiming to increase religious tolerance, Anwar said.

Cost of living anxieties

Its also an exciting time for business. Hotels, restaurants and cafes all prepare special Ramadan promotions, and shoppers flock to shopping centers for new clothes and home decorations for the holiday of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan. Children often receive new clothes and gifts.

However, some Muslims worry how they will cope financially during Ramadan this year amid soaring prices.

Everything to do with cooking is rising (in cost) day by day, said Asih Mulyawati, a mother of two who lives in Jakartas outskirt of Tangerang. I worry this situation will impact Ramadan celebrations.

Despite soaring food prices in the past month, popular markets such as Tanah Abang in Jakarta were teeming with shoppers buying clothes, shoes, cookies and sweets before the holiday.

Indonesias Trade Ministry has said prices of imported staple foods including wheat, sugar, beef and soybeans have increased sharply this year as a result of rising global commodity prices and supply chain disruptions.

But many people say the rise in prices not only impacts imported foods but also local commodities like rice, eggs, chili, palm oil and onions. Many also blame the government for rising gas and electricity prices.

The current gloomy economic situation and extreme weather recently also contribute to the soaring prices and the weakening of peoples purchasing power, said Heru Tatok, a trader in Jakartas Pasar Senen market. NINIEK KARMINI, JAKARTA, MDT/AP
Since the opening of POLY MGM MUSEUM, it has played a crucial role in cultural exchange, fostering the mutual learning of international art treasures, intangible heritage techniques, and cultural stories. The POLY MGM MUSEUM recently co-organized the Museums Exchange Program  Yunjin Brocade  A Conversation on Intangible Cultural Heritage and Innovation with the Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum. Featuring Jian Mingwei, the Director of Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum, and Zhou Shuangxi, the national-level inheritor of the Nanjing Yunjin weaving technique, an intangible cultural heritage of mankind, this event has facilitated in-depth discussions among nearly 100 participants, with the focus on the protection, inheritance, innovation, and contemporary value of Yunjin brocade.

The collaboration of these two museums began with the current inaugural exhibition of the POLY MGM MUSEUM, The Maritime Silk Road  Discover the Mystical Seas and Encounter the Treasures of the Ancient Trade Route, featuring a precious brocade work titled Silk Road Splendor created by Zhou Shuangxi, a prized collectable of the Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum. As the leading brocade among Chinas three famous brocades, Nanjing Yunjin embodies a thousand-year-old Chinese civilization and is a precious intangible cultural heritage. To boost diverse cultural and artistic interactions between the two cities, the Nanjing Yunjin Brocade Museum gifted two brocade artworks, co-created by Zhou Shuangxi, to the POLY MGM MUSEUM. These works depict natural landscapes and celebrate the beautiful mountains and rivers of China, thereby strengthening the friendship between the two places. Jian Mingwei hopes to extend the modern artistic power of Nanjing Yunjin with these two signature brocade artworks, while showcasing the nations great craftsmanship and innovation to spread Chinese cultural stories more widely.

During the event, Zhou Shuangxi highlighted the importance of exhibitions like Silk Road Splendor, which allows more people to appreciate Chinas intangible cultural heritage and helps its inheritance and development. He also stressed the preservation of Yunjin Brocade requires not only more peoples deep understanding and learning, but also the transmission of the cultural spirit behind it.

As museums serve as essential platforms for promoting regional culture to a broader audience, the POLY MGM MUSEUM plans to continue launching exhibitions and extension activities, including seminars, inter-museum exchange programs, and workshops, to further enhance worldwide cultural communications.

MGM

Avenida Dr. Sun Yat Sen, NAPE, Macau

E info@mgmchina.com.mo

W http://www.mgm.mo/
Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, will visit Macau this month, marking the first visit by a senior Portuguese official since the pandemic. Rangel will attend the Boao Forum in China and meet with Chinese officials, including his counterpart, Wang Yi, according to TDM. In Macau, he will meet Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai, engage with the Portuguese community, and hold discussions with Consul General Alexandre Leitao. This will be the first meeting between Rangel and the new Chief Executive. Rangel is also expected to return later this year for Portugals Camoes Day celebrations.

Related
As the three-year transition period for satellite casinos approaches its conclusion, workers are bracing for potential job losses and reduced benefits amid significant industry changes.

The impending deadline, set for the end of the year, will restrict operations of the remaining 11 satellite casinos to management companies, intensifying concerns about job security among employees.

Many workers, some with nearly two decades of experience in the gaming sector, fear that these changes will adversely affect their welfare.

We are worried about whether our benefits will be reduced and if we will be able to keep our jobs amid potential operational shifts, shared one employee who has dedicated over a decade to the casino, as reported by TDM.

Another anonymous employee, reflecting on the uncertainty, expressed anxiety about adapting to new roles if operational changes occur.

Im concerned about my ability to handle a new job, they stated.

The transition has already resulted in displacement for some, with colleagues being transferred to unrelated departments, such as kitchens, while others, particularly older workers, have opted for early retirement.

The operational model for satellite casinos is poised for a significant shift, restricting them to earning only fixed management fees starting next year.

This change raises concerns about financial viability; some managers argue that if these fees are set at unsustainable levels, it could impede their ability to repay bank loans. To ensure sustainability, they are advocating for rental prices to be aligned with operational performance.

Lawmaker Lei Leong Wong emphasized the broader implications, noting that the closure of satellite casinos could impact not only employees but also surrounding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Business owners near the satellite casinos are also worried, Wong said.

Wong urged the government to announce a clear plan to safeguard job opportunities for affected workers and to consider the economic ripple effects on the community.

While gaming concessionaires are responsible for employees under their contracts, many satellite casino workers are employed by contractors, leaving them in a precarious position.

Adding to the discussion, Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai spoke about the handling of satellite casinos, emphasizing the contractual obligations of gaming concessionaires in managing these establishments. He stated, I believe gaming concessionaires will coordinate well with satellite casino operators. Workers of satellite casinos are sent to work there by gaming concessionaires. They are supposed to have an arrangement to take over them.

He also mentioned that if gaming concessionaires require assistance, the SAR government would be ready to help.

Sam clarified, Of course, gaming concessionaires will have their business judgment in dealing with these workers. If they need help from the SAR government, we will provide them help. Will the SAR government intervene in their discussion? Its more on the gaming concessionaires. There are supposed to be contracts. Also, they are supposed to have certain anticipations during the transition period. They should consider how to deal with it.

The concerns extend beyond the casino workers themselves.

As reported last week, Secretary for Security Wong Sio Chak has also voiced apprehension about the potential closure of satellite casinos, emphasizing the social and economic ramifications.

During a press conference on the 2024 crime report last week, Wong stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation, particularly its impact on employment and nearby businesses. He noted that while the issue is not currently a public security concern, it could evolve into one if not addressed promptly.

Lawmakers affiliated with the Macau Federation of Trade Unions, including Leong Sun Iok, Ella Lei, and Jose Pereira Coutinho, have echoed these concerns. They highlighted the significant impact on businesses in the ZAPE area following the closure of seven satellite casinos two years ago and warned that the loss of another 11 venues could devastate the local economy.

Pereira Coutinho has called for an extension of the transition deadline, while Lei and Leong have urged gaming concessionaires to find solutions, such as acquiring the casinos or reintegrating displaced workers into other properties. Victoria Chan
South Korean police said Friday they are summoning a Japanese woman for questioning over allegedly kissing Jin, a member of the K-pop supergroup BTS, without consent during a free hug event last year.

A police officer who answered the phone at Seouls Songpa police station said it requested the woman to appear for questioning over an allegation of sexual harassment. The police station refused to disclose her identity citing privacy.

The station said it had launched an investigation after receiving an online complaint and refused to provide further details because an investigation was under way.

Media reports said that South Korean police were able to confirm the identity of the woman with the help of Japanese police.

The reports said the woman, who is in her 50s, was refusing to appear for questioning.

The woman wrote in an online blog post that My lips touched his neck. His skin was so soft, according to Yonhap news agency.
Several banking institutions in Macau have reportedly informed clients of sudden account closures, according to sources familiar with the issue.

An investigation by The Times suggests that these closures may be connected to accounts involved in unlawful remittance activities, particularly among non-resident workers (TNR) from the Philippines.

The investigation reveals that many of these workers use a middleman to transfer money to GCash, an e-payment platform.

The process typically involves the workers sending money to a middlemans bank account, who then acts as an informal remittance service, offering a slightly better exchange rate.

Filipino workers in Macau can currently remit money through local remittance companies, such as BDO Unibank, Pacific Ace, and Global Remit, with fees ranging from MOP25 to MOP30, depending on the method used for the receiver to collect the funds.

The intermediaries charge a flat fee of MOP20 and allow transfers to be made through bank transfers, eliminating the need to visit a remittance center.

Some would also opt to visit a bank and deposit money through Cash Withdrawal and Deposit Machines (CWD) located across the city.

However, this method often results in multiple deposits and transactions into their accounts, particularly during the first week of the month.

Some TNR clients, especially those with Banco Nacional Ultramarino (BNU), have reportedly been notified of account closures, with no clear explanation given.

The Times reached out to BNU for comment, but the bank declined to provide details, citing banking confidentiality

All information regarding BNU clients, whether individuals, companies or institutions, is subject to banking confidentiality. BNU values the trust that all customers place in the Bank, therefore, as you may understand, we will not disclose any information about any of our customers financial relationship with BNU, the bank stated to the Times inquiry.

The same institution added, On the other hand, we may assert that no new policies have been implemented recently. BNU operates and has always operated in accordance with best financial practices and in strict compliance with the Regulatory Authoritys guidelines.

In response to the Times query, the Monetary Authority of Macao (AMCM) emphasized that both banks and account holders must adhere to agreed terms and conditions.

It also noted that banks are entitled to terminate business relationships with customers after providing prior notice, and customers can reach out to resolve issues.

In line with the banks Customer Acceptance Policy and commercial decision, the bank reserves the right to terminate the business relationship with the customer with prior notice. In special circumstances, account holders may contact the bank to come up with a resolution, the AMCM added.

The AMCM clarified that banks must conduct thorough due diligence before establishing business relationships, in line with anti-money laundering and terrorism financing guidelines.

Banks shall conduct customer due diligence procedures, which shall include but not limited to understanding customers background, purpose of account and transaction, etc., in accordance with the AMCMs Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism Guideline as well as respective internal Customer Acceptance Policy, the bureau said.

Some workers have explained that they prefer this method of transferring money because it offers lower fees and avoids the time-consuming process of using official remittance services.

Sources revealed that due to the rise of online remittance services, registered remittance companies are seeing a significant drop in business.

Business is nothing like it was before bank transfers or GCash became popular. There are many days now, even at the end of the month when were usually busiest, that we dont have as many transactions, said a teller at a remittance center, who requested to remain anonymous.

Around two years ago, the AMCM issued a warning against using the mobile app YourPay for remittances from Macau to Indonesia, as it was not authorized to operate in Macau and was deemed illegal.

The AMCM stated that the app was promoted across various media platforms.

The authority clarified that it is not authorized to conduct financial activities in Macau, making it illegal.

Under Macaus financial regulations, individuals involved in unauthorized financial operations may face significant fines.
A woman who exited a moving taxi on the Amizade Bridge has been fined MOP 600 for violating Macaus traffic laws. A viral video circulating on social media shows the tourist leaving the vehicle while it was still in motion. According to the taxi driver, she said she was feeling unwell and needed fresh air. She later managed to hail another taxi on the bridge to continue her journey to Macau International Airport. Traffic laws strictly prohibit passengers from entering or exiting moving vehicles. The taxi driver will not face penalties, as he reportedly took all necessary precautions.

Related
Chinas national two sessions, a key political event shaping the countrys policy direction, are set to convene in Beijing this week against the backdrop of a complex and challenging domestic and global environment.

The annual session of the top political advisory body, the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference National Committee, will commence tomorrow. The session of the top legislature, the National Peoples Congress (NPC), will open on Wednesday.

The Chinese premier, top legislator, top political advisor, chief justice, and top procurator will present work reports. Lawmakers will review the governments annual budget and development plan. They will deliberate an amendment to the law on deputies to the NPC and local peoples congresses.

On the sidelines of the event, ministers from various government departments will engage with the public through interviews and press conferences, clarifying policies and responding to pressing concerns.

The two sessions serve as a critical window to observe Chinas development plan for the coming year. Decisions and policy announcements made here will not only affect the lives of 1.4 billion Chinese but also have an impact outside the countrys borders.

So, what can be expected from this years two sessions?

GROWTH TARGET FOR 2025

Typically, the GDP growth target set in the government work report is one of the most closely watched figures. As Chinas economy shifts toward high-quality development, GDP is not the sole measure of the economy. But it remains an important indicator.

In 2024, China achieved its growth target of around 5 percent, thanks in large part to a series of significant macroeconomic measures introduced to offset economic downturn pressure.

GDP growth serves as a cornerstone metric with profound and wide-ranging significance. Despite the challenges Chinas economy has faced in recent years, it is projected to contribute about 30 percent of global economic growth in 2024, making it the largest source of growth for the world economy.

INCREMENTAL POLICIES

To achieve its growth target, China will roll out more targeted policies to stimulate economic activity. The government work report is expected to announce policy measures to ensure the goal is met.

China has already signaled a shift in its macroeconomic stance. At the Central Economic Work Conference last December, policymakers pledged to roll out more proactive macro policies in 2025. Notably, they decided to adopt a moderately loose monetary policy, marking a significant departure from the prudent approach over the past 14 years.

The meeting outlined nine key priorities, with boosting consumption at the forefront. This reflects Chinas emphasis on domestic demand as a top economic priority. In 2025, large-scale equipment upgrades and consumer goods trade-in programs are expected to be promoted with greater intensity and in a broader scope.

According to Finance Minister Lan Foan, China in 2025 will actively use the room for a higher deficit, increase the issuance of local government special-purpose bonds, continue to issue ultra-long special treasury bonds, and increase transfer payments from the central government to local governments. The specifics of these plans will also be a key focus of this years two sessions.

INTERACTIONS BETWEEN LEADERS, LEGISLATORS, ADVISORS

During the two sessions, Chinese leaders, who are NPC deputies themselves, will interact with their fellow lawmakers at group deliberations. They will also interact with political advisors to discuss hotspot topics that matter most to state governance.

These interactions serve as a window for observing how the central leadership stays informed about grassroots realities. This is a defining feature of Chinese democracy, often described in contemporary discourse as whole-process peoples democracy.

In recent years, President Xi Jinping, a deputy of Jiangsu provinces delegation to the 14th NPC, has typically participated in the delegations deliberations.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, also attended the meetings of the NPC delegation of the armed forces and joined group discussions of political advisors from various sectors.

During these interactions, Xi emphasized key priorities such as supporting the growth of the private sector and private enterprises, accelerating digital economy development, and advancing high-level opening-up  all crucial to Chinas economic and social progress.

FOREIGN POLICY

The two sessions also shed light on Chinas foreign policy, as the foreign minister typically holds a press conference on the sidelines of the meetings.

Last year, Foreign Minister Wang Yi answered 21 questions during a 90-minute press conference, with journalists from across the world participating.

The foreign minister touched on various regional and international hotspot issues, such as the Ukraine crisis and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. He also expounded on Chinas foreign policies toward Russia, the United States, Europe, and Global South countries.

During this years two sessions, Chinas propositions on international relations are particularly noteworthy against the backdrop of a rapidly changing and turbulent global landscape.

AI, INNOVATION

Without a doubt, technological innovation will be a key focus during this years two sessions, with the artificial intelligence (AI) industry very likely to take center stage.

Over the past month, Chinese tech start-up DeepSeek sent shockwaves through the global AI industry and capital markets by introducing an open-source and popular chatbot.

Domestically, companies such as Tencent, Baidu, and BYD have begun integrating DeepSeek into their products. Some local governments have also announced collaborations with the DeepSeek AI model to enhance public services, while others have organized training sessions to help officials and business professionals better understand the development and applications of DeepSeek and other AI technologies.

In fact, AI has already emerged as one of the hottest topics at many of this years provincial-level two sessions. Many AI-related plans mentioned in provincial government work reports focus on building innovation platforms, promoting deeper industry integration, and improving policy frameworks.

Its important to note that the rise of innovations like DeepSeek reflects Chinas commitment to taking the lead in technological advancements and its broader strategic focus on talent cultivation, innovation-friendly environment, business environment improvements, and the nurturing of non-public investments. These elements are expected to be underscored during the two sessions.

Additionally, the sessions provide a crucial platform for lawmakers and political advisors to offer suggestions and foster broad consensus on national development. Some of them are corporate executives and leading researchers. What AI-related proposals and suggestions they will present will be a major point of interest for China watchers. MDT/ChinaDaily
By combining forces, well do so much more to expose the fallacies and dark consequences of evolution and present the exquisite wonders of Gods creative handiwork, says Dr. Robert J. Pacienza, CRM President and CEO

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Coral Ridge Ministries (CRM)

March 3, 2025

"Dr. Robert J. Pacienza, left, President/CEO of Coral Ridge Ministries (CRM), with Tom DeRosa, founder of the Creation Studies Institute, which has merged with CRM.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., March 3, 2025 / Standard Newswire / -- Coral Ridge Ministries (CRM) is stepping aggressively into the creation/evolution debate as it welcomes the Creation Studies Institute (CSI) into the media outreach founded by the late D. James Kennedy (1930-2007), the founding pastor of Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in Fort Lauderdale.

I am thrilled that CSI is merging with CRM to make the biblical and scientific case for creation, said Dr. Robert J. Pacienza, CRM President and CEO. This new partnership is deeply needed. A generation ago, Dr. D. James Kennedy, a mentor and friend to Tom DeRosa and myself, declared: Every peg upon which evolution has stood is collapsing and crumbling about it today.

But despite its missing evidentiary basis, evolution still has a steel grip on science, education, the media, popular culture, and even the law. By combining forces, well do so much more to make the case for Genesis, expose the fallacies and dark consequences of evolution, and present the exquisite wonders of Gods creative handiwork. Partnering with CSI, well use our nationwide outreach to expose Darwins lies and showcase creation truth recorded in scripture and documented by science.

Founded in 1988 by Tom DeRosa, a former evolutionist and atheist who came to Christ through the ministry of Dr. Kennedy, CSI brings vast expertise to the human origins debate. Led by DeRosa, the author of Evolutions Fatal Fruit, CSI offers creation education through conferences, seminars, hands-on fossil and bone exhibits, fossil exploration outings, and more.

Its a great honor and privilege to team with my friend Dr. Rob Pacienza and CRM to present the case for creation, said DeRosa. CSIs ultimate mission, he added, is to win the lost to their Creator and help Christians grow stronger in their faith.

DeRosa first attended Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church in 1978, just days after he professed faith in Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Sitting on a wooden pew in a packed sanctuary, he recalls, I heard Dr. D. James Kennedy preach on creation. I was blown away to hear the biblical and scientific case for creation. And I wanted to learn more.

He spent the next decade studying creation science while teaching chemistry from a creation perspective at Westminster Academy, the K-12 school affiliated with Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. In 1988, with Dr. Kennedys blessing and support, I founded Creation Studies Institute, which God has used to educate thousands of people of all ages across Florida and beyond about creation truth. I am thrilled that CSI is joining CRM to reach untold thousands more nationwide with the truth of creation and the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

NOTE: CRM introduced CSI and its founder, Tom DeRosa, in a special feature on its weekly nationwide TV program, Truths That Transform.

SOURCE Coral Ridge Ministries (CRM)

CONTACT Sarah Kittle, sarahpublicitypr@gmail.com
Former three-time Mayor Paul Soglin called the treatment of a group of Black Madison City Council members unaligned with Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway an example of plantation politics, though he later apologized for the comment after it triggered backlash from some Black elected officials in the city.

In a Thursday Facebook post, Soglin used the phrase to criticize Rhodes-Conways appointment of those council members to positions on less coveted and less powerful city committees.

A group of Black council members are relegated to the back bench because they choose to represent the views of their community and refuse to toe the white party line, Soglin said. It is racist. It is discriminatory. It is plantation politics.

In an interview, Soglin denied invoking slavery despite the use of the word plantation. Plantation politics was a phrase used to describe how political machines in big cities like Chicago ruled over Black residents throughout the mid-1900s, according to a Chicago Tribune article the former mayor shared with the Wisconsin State Journal.

In a follow-up Facebook post Sunday evening, the former mayor apologized for the remark, saying it undermined the criticism he was trying to make of Rhodes-Conway.

Late last week, the comment had prompted some of the sharpest criticism of the former mayor in recent years.

Soglin has chosen to attack Black leaders in a way that mirrors the same racist power structures he claims to call out, said Sabrina Madison, a Black council member who represents the East Side in District 17. Lets talk about the audacity of him making these attacks during Black History Month  a time when we should be celebrating Black leadership, not tearing it down.

In the comments on Soglins post, Ald. Juliana Bennett said it was deeply offensive that a privileged white man like former Mayor Soglin would equate the Mayors committee assignments, and by extension, my service and that of several Black alders, to plantation politics.

This comparison is both ignorant and appalling, said Bennett, who represents Downtown in District 2. It trivialized the brutal history of slavery and disrespects the agency and intellect of Black leaders who serve this city.

In an email, Council President Yannette Figueroa Cole and Vice President John Duncan said they supported the comments rebuking Soglin by Bennett and others.

Committee politicking

Soglins comments and the pushback come amid hotly contested City Council races, and the dustup highlights Soglins continued presence as a political force, unlike other recent former mayors.

Since his 2019 loss to Rhodes-Conway, Soglin has been a leading opponent of many of her policies, inveighing against the citys $22 million property tax referendum, changes to the transit system and rezoning to achieve greater housing density. He has backed political challenges to the mayor, like that of 2023 mayoral candidate Gloria Reyes, as well as backing some opponents of Rhodes-Conways council allies.

Most members of the council in recent years have largely been in alignment with Rhodes-Conways policies, many of them people of color who have been named to council leadership and appointed by the mayor to the citys most powerful committees.

But a small group of council members  Amani Latimer Burris, Barbara Harrington-McKinney, Isadore Knox and Nasra Wehelie, all of whom are Black  often vote against items and policies pushed by Rhodes-Conway and the larger bloc of their colleagues on the council.

Only one of them, Harrington-McKinney, has been appointed by Rhodes-Conway to one of the citys more powerful committees, the Transportation Commission.

The others get committee assignments seen as less coveted, like Latimer Burris, a Soglin ally who was appointed by Rhodes-Conway to the Landmarks Commission. In 2021, Rhodes-Conway did not reappoint Harrington-McKinney to the citys Finance Committee, a seat shed held for six years.

Latimer Burris declined to comment. Harrington-McKinney did not respond to a request for comment, and Rhodes-Conway, through city spokesperson Dylan Brogan, declined to comment.

Its very clear ... that independent Black voices are being punished. We see it in their committee assignments and we see it in the endorsements they receive, Soglin said in an interview on Friday, referring to Rhodes-Conways backing of the opponents of those council members in upcoming council races. Is it just a coincidence that theyre all Black? Or maybe theyre speaking for their constituency.

Other officials who are white and sometimes at odds with the mayors policies have been removed from committees, such as West Side Ald. Bill Tishler, who the mayor did not reappoint to his seat on the Landmarks Commission and reassigned him the Early Childhood Care and Education Committee.

Downtown Ald. Mike Verveer, the longest-serving member of the council, noted that all four mayors the city has had in the past 30 years have struck a balance between stacking key committees with their allies and appointing a diverse group of officials and residents.

Its by no means unusual that the mayor appointed alders she considers her allies to important committees, Verveer said. The bottom line for me is I certainly dont think its the mayor being racist.
March 2, 2025  Matt Chapman

Thomas Ptacek, a friend and expert witness in this lawsuit summed it up best in the court's hallway while walking within three feet of opposing counsel: "This is fucking stupid".

His companion post explains why.

Intro

Working with the City of Chicago's parking ticket datawhich I've received through FOIAhas always been a pain, especially in terms of knowing what exactly to request. In August 2018, I attempted to generally solve that problem, by submitting a request for the following:

An index of the tables and columns within each table of CANVAS. Please include the column data type as well. Per the CANVAS specification, the database in question is Oracle, so the below SQL query will likely yield the records pursuant to this request: select utc.column_name as colname, uo.object_name as tablename, utc.data_type as type from user_objects uo join user_tab_columns utc on uo.object_name = utc.table_name where uo.object_type = 'TABLE'

CANVAS Database Schema request on Muckrock

After the City initially denied the request with an argument that the records' release would compromise network security, I took the denial to court where we initially won at-trial. The City then appealed, which we won as well. The case ultimately went up to the Illinois Supreme Court, where we lost unanimously. Better Government Association did a good explainer of the consequences of that loss, which boils down to a significant broadening of public agencies' leeway to apply exemptions (i.e., withhold records or redact information) in response to FOIA requests.

Why Go Through All of This?

Under Illinois FOIA case law, if a request's responsive documentsthe set of records or information within the scope of that requestare stored in a queryable database, a query must be written. The requester is not required to write the query. The law even requires the agency to give you the data in a format of your choice (protip: "excel format"). When it works, it's freaking great. Reality makes it difficult for a number of reasons, though:

The FOIA officer will likely need to defer any querying to a colleague who is a "data person."

You can't just ask a question:"FOIA does not compel the agency to provide answers to questions posed by the inquirer."

From the requester's perspective, "Is X column requestable?" isn't answerable without first attempting to request that column's data.

Requesting too many columns will likely lead to time-consuming back-and-forth, or a flat-out denial.

Even though Illinois FOIA requires that a requester be given a chance to narrow their request, FOIA officers sometimes just stop responding during this "conferral" process.

To generally work through this problem, many folk will spend hours surfing through PDFs, reports, contracts, work products, etc, just to get a sense of what data might exist. This process is frustrating and often yields incomplete results. Let's walk through my attempt with CANVAS.

First Attempts for Parking Ticket Data

My very first FOIA request was pretty narrow and sought the City's towing data. The City was unable to get me what I requested for reasons I can't seem to find, but it painted a picture that the Chicago doesn't really track how cars are towed.

A month later, the project began shifting towards parking ticket data in addition to towing data, so I requested:

all raw towing and parking violation records available in the CANVAS system and any records that are from imported/interpolated from non-CANVAS systems.

This request was denied. The Department of Finance argued that the request would take anywhere between 280 to 400 hours to complete:

There are 55 million ticket records and 928K seizure records in CANVAS. As far as tow information, we only have knowledge of when a vehicle is towed due to a boot and released. The Department of Finance's application support vender estimates a minimum of 60-80 hours to design/develop/test and run the program. In addition, since this is like a conversion to another system, we are not sure how long it would take to transfer so much data, a rough estimate would be an additional 80-120 hours to design a solution to get all the data on some kind of media for retrieval. Compliance with this request as currently written would take approximately 140-200 hours utilizing our vendor's resources to the exclusion of other work assignments.

A couple months and some phone calls later, I submitted a narrower request, which was successfully fulfilled, because I included an explicit list of fields. After honing the request language a a bit more, I was eventually able to get the data used in the analysis of my first blog post.

But Wait, Is There More?

Despite getting the limited information I had requested, I still wanted to expand my analysis, which required knowing what other information exists within CANVAS. So, I submitted another request for high-level and low-level system information:

1. Code for CANVAS 2. Logs of CANVAS and/or CANVAS log analysis. 3. Documentation for the operation of CANVAS, including how information is stored, what kind of database is used, along with any other technical documentation or generic documentation. 4. Any Wiki page related to CANVAS. 5. Any analysis of City parking ticket levels or trends.

The only records the City sent in response was a lackluster spreadsheet with just 100 rows, broken down by ward. I'm still not sure if this was the only analysisdone at the time, but let's get back to the meat of this blog post.

1, 2, and 3 were denied because:

[The records] could be used in a security breach against CANVAS and jeopardize the security of the system, therefore it is being withheld.

But with the goal of just figuring out what information exists, the request was extremely wide and could have been narrowed to something more akin to a "data dictionary". To this day, I've never been able to get anything like a data dictionary from the City, though there is a contractual obligationas described in the RFP spec for this $200 million systemfor the City to maintain something like that! But alas, at least in 2018, the City claimed they don't have anything like it.





Professional Services Agreement Between the City of Chicago Department of Finance and Department of Administrative Hearings and IBM Corporation: City of Chicago Violation, Noticing and Adjudication Business Process and System Support, p. 180 (2012)

Requesting Database Records from All City Databases

Sensing a pattern of a general failure to maintain data dictionaries, despite the City's public support for launching one, I submitted a FOIA request to every City agency for the following:

1. A short description of the database. 2. The names of the applications that are able to run queries/inserts. 3. All usernames and permissions 4. All database table names. 5. All column names in each table. 6. A description of each column. 7. Number of rows in each table.

A couple weeks later, Chicago's Department of Law sent me a letter on behalf of every agency and denied all parts, 1 through 7, of that request.

First, they argued that they would need to "create a new document":

First, no City Department is in possession of a document which contains the information you seek. The only way to compile the requested information, to the extent it is not exempt for one or more of the reasons noted below, would be to create a document.

Then, they requested a pedantic clarification about what "database" means:

Your request does not provide a definition of the term database. A commonly accepted definition of "database" is collection of pieces of information that is organized and used on a computer. http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/database. Such a broad definition would include Excel spreadsheets. It would be unduly burdensome to the operations of each of the City's Departments to search every computer in use by its personnel in order to identify, open,review and catalogue each database and every Excel spreadsheet in the manner you request."

Please note that in late 2013, the City of Chicago launched a publically available Data Dictionary which can be found at http://datadictionary.cityofchicago.org/. It is described as a resource for anyone who is interested in understanding what data is held by City agencies and departments, how and if it may be accessed, and in what formats it may be accessed.

"Metalicious": Chicago's Failed Data Dictionary

But even with all of that, they offered a helpful suggestion, and pointed to the City's "data dictionary":Cool! It's a damn shame the system shutdown less than a year later, though.

A lot of government agencies have absolutely recognized the problem of the public not knowing what information exists, including Chicago. One such attempt at fixing this problem is to voluntarily make the columns and table names of their databases open to the public, like the Department of Justice's PDFs of table names, column names, and descriptions of both.. There's even an open specification for government database schemas!

But even with agencies voluntarily making schema information public, such releases are effectively discretionary and are outside of the realm of FOIA.

One such release of discretionary information, as the Department of Law mentioned in their denial letter, is the 2013-released city-wide data dictionary project called "Metalicious". That's the actual name.

Metalicious was funded by a $300,000 John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation grant to UChicago's Chapin Hall, with the intended purpose of making table names, column names and descriptions of both publicly accessible. It's the City's "data dictionary".

Schema information of the Chicago Budget System on Metalicious (2016)

An example of a system whose database schema information is released was the Chicago Budget System (CBS). A total of 110 tables are listed, with descriptions and a link to each table's columns. An interesting table worth investigation on its own is, BOOK_ALDERMANIC_PAYRATE , which is described as, "data used for creating pay schedule for aldermanic staff published in the Budget Book". Good to know!

Journalists and civic inquisitors can use it to determine what information is available when composing Freedom of Information Act requests. Based on my own experience, knowing what to even ask for has been a challenge. All that is over.

All That Is Over: Its Inevitable Shutdown

Metalicious received some attention in civic data circles:

Within a few short years, the project ostensibly shut down and its front page was replaced with a message about being down for "temporary maintenance". That temporary maintenance has been ongoing for about nine years now.

Back in 2018, I asked the City's now-former Chief Data Officer Tom Schenk why it was shut down, and he explained:

Metalicious was retired because of lack of resources to expand it (originally grant funded). It had some, but very, very small proportion of databases. There was security review of any published data and some information was withheld if we felt it could undermine the application security. By Info Sec policy, it is confidential information until a review deems it appropriate for public release--same as the open data workflow which mirrors the FOIA workflow.

RIP.

Requesting Metalicious

Okay, that's not surprising, but since the first goal here was to figure out whether column and table names are requestable, I submitted my request for the MySQL dump of Metalicious. As these things go, that request was also denied:

Please be advised the Department of Innovation and Technology neither maintains nor possesses any records that are responsive to your FOIA request.

So, I submitted another request and was sure to included a quote from a press release that was explicit about the Department's ownership of Metalicious.

They eventually sent me a copy of a MySQL dump with about 150 databases' columns and table names, including their descriptions. Neat! Progress!

To me, this reasonably shows that the City can provide table names and column names of City databases under IL FOIA.

The CANVAS Request and Trial

This brings us back to the FOIA request for the CANVAS database schema, which was twice appealed and died at the Illinois Supreme Court.

The request included a SQL statement for the City to run in order to fulfil the request. I made some small mistakes that bit me later, which is ripe for another whole post. Essentially, the City denied the request by arguing that the release of this information would jeopardize the security of Chicago's systems:

Your request seeks a copy of tables or columns within each table of CANVAS. The dissemination of these pieces of network information could jeopardize the security of the systems of the City of Chicago. Please be advised that even if you were to narrow your request, certain records may be withheld from disclosure under the exemptions enumerated in the FOIA, including but not limited to the exemption set forthin 5 ILCS 140/7(1)(o).

I disagree wholeheartedly and Thomas Ptacek goes into more detail in his companion post.

Upon recieving this denial, I reached out to my attorneys at Loevy & Loevy who agreed to sue.

"Civic Hacker"

Eventually there was a trial in January 2020. During the trial, the City's attorneys argued that my intent was nefarious:

They are seeking the ability to have information that helps Mr. Chapman, civic hacker, go into the system and manipulate the data for whatever means he sees fit. That is not something that FOIA requires the City to do.

I have no idea where they came up with the idea that I wanted to manipulate their data, especially considering that just four months earlier, I was asked to help the City with parking ticket reform.

While we were waiting for the trial date, Kate LeFurgy, Director of Comms for the Office of the Mayor, reached out to me and asked if I could help with some parking ticket analysis (for free). I agreed, and compiled a spreadsheet detailing how a large number of vehicles received a disproportionate number of ticketsgroupings that highlight, for example, one vehicle which received at least three tickets per week for 41 continuous weeks.

This is incredible. I can't thank you enough as to how helpful this was. I truly appreciate your time and talents on this work. It has been invaluable in shaping the reform measures we hope to put in place later this year. -Kate LeFurgy | Fri, Aug 23, 2019

Those good spirits did not last long, and LeFurgy did not respond to my emails asking for thoughts on the CANVAS litigation.

Privacy When It's Convenient

Chicago's expert witness, Bruce Coffing, said in court:

In this particular case we are saying, I'm saying that from defending this, our constituents' information, their private information, one of the things that helps us defend that system is not making this [schema information] available. It is not the only thing we do. We do many things. But I don't want to make it easier for the bad guys and bad gals out there to attack our system and let put our constituents' private data at risk.

This argument is striking to me, because the City has already shared so much private data through FOIA.

For instance, in 2018, when I requested parking ticket data from the Department of Finance, their FOIA officer told me that they could not include both license plates andthe vehicles' registered address. To resolve this issue, they offered to remove license plate data and only provide addresses.

However, they had already given me the license plate data of millions of ticketed vehicles, in response to a different, earlier FOIA request. So, I received registered home addresses from one request, and license plates from another.

The responsive records from these two separate FOIA requests can easily be paired.

To demonstrate the extent of this problem, I created this visualization which shows the scale of private information disclosed by the Department of Finance: vehicle addresses from every U.S. state, including 11,057 unique addresses of Texas vehicles and 48,707 from Michigan.

I've been told by a reliable source that the Department of Finance no longer sends license plates nor registered addresses in response to FOIA requests.

Next Steps

The whole point of this entire thing was to make it easier to request data through FOIA. Ultimately, the goal is to simply send a SQL statement to an agency for them to run, and avoid so much of the usual nonsense. Basically, an API.

Relatedly, these two bills from last year were interesting, and sought to fix the IL Supreme Court's bad decision. But they didn't go anywhere during last year's session.

Fortunately this year, a new bill was filed with the addition of this language:

[...] and shall include the identification and a plain-text description of each of the types or categories of information of each field of each database of the public body. [...] and shall provide a sufficient description of the structures of all databases under the control of the public body to allow a requester to request the public body to perform specific database queries.

That's pretty neat! I hope it passes.
Blessed Mhlanga, a journalist with the online television channel HStv, was denied bail by a Harare court on Friday, February 28, 2025. He faces charges of inciting violence after publishing interviews with Blessed Geza, a veteran of Zimbabwes independence struggle and a ruling ZANU-PF member critical of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

The courts decision has reignited concerns over press freedom in Zimbabwe. In interviews published on January 27 and February 11, Geza suggested that Mnangagwa should resign or risk being removed by legal means. Citing these remarks, Judge Farai Gwatima ruled that Mhlangas reporting amounted to incitement. The message being conveyed clearly encourages violence, the judge stated, justifying his decision to deny bail. He further argued that Mhlangas release could destabilize the country. The 44-year-old journalist is scheduled to stand trial on March 14.

The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) condemned the ruling, calling it an attack on press freedom. This is a criminalization of journalism, said MISA Zimbabwe director Tabani Moyo. Among the states key witnesses is the head of counter-terrorism, as if journalism has become a terrorist act. This is deeply troubling.

Following the ousting of longtime ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017, Zimbabwe saw initial improvements in media access. However, press freedoms have steadily eroded since Mnangagwas 2023 re-election. While the constitution guarantees freedom of expression and media rights, authorities have increasingly used penal code provisions to silence critical journalists like Mhlanga.
A meeting was held between Ulvi Mehdiyev, Chairman of the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of Azerbaijan, and Qasim Mohiuddin, Ambassador of Pakistan, Azernews reports.

According to the Public Relations Department of the State Agency, the meeting, following the visit of Pakistans Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif to the "ASAN Service" center, focused on exporting the "ASAN Service" model to Pakistan.

The ambassador expressed his strong impression of the model, noting Pakistan's readiness to take practical steps to implement it. He also proposed signing a bilateral agreement to formalize this collaboration in the near future.
Namibia bid a solemn and heartfelt farewell to its founding father and first President, Sam Nujoma, on Saturday, March 1. The revered leader, who passed away on February 9 at the age of 95, was laid to rest in a national memorial near the capital, Windhoek, in a ceremony marked by deep emotion, military honors, and the presence of thousands of Namibians, alongside distinguished guests from across the African continent.

At midday, Nujomas remains were interred amid the thunderous salute of 21 cannon shots, a tribute befitting a statesman of his stature. Moments later, fighter jets soared above Heroes Square, a site dedicated to the memory of those who fought for Namibias liberation. Draped in the national flag, his coffin had arrived at the memorial earlier that morning after a poignant journey spanning several days. Since February 20, his remains had been taken across different regions of Namibia, allowing citizens from all walks of life to pay their final respects before returning to Windhoek on Wednesday.

The funeral drew a massive crowd, with thousands gathering to honor the man affectionately known as Sam. Traditional songs from the liberation struggle echoed through the ceremony, a moving tribute to the leader who played a pivotal role in securing Namibias independence.

During the official proceedings, Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba delivered an emotional eulogy, hailing Nujoma as a giant and the most eminent son of the Namibian nation. Other dignitaries took turns to lay wreaths at his grave, expressing their admiration and gratitude for his lifelong dedication to the country.

The ceremony was attended by several sitting Heads of State, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Angolan President Joao Lourenco, and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Former leaders, such as South Africas Thabo Mbeki and the Democratic Republic of Congos Joseph Kabila, also traveled to Namibia to pay their respects.

In recognition of Nujomas immense contribution to Namibias history and independence, the Government declared March 1 a national public holiday, ensuring that future generations will continue to honor his legacy.
As Gabon approaches its presidential election on 12 April, tensions are rising across the country, with tribalism, regionalism, and political animosity threatening to undermine the national unity. In response to these growing divisions, a coalition of political parties and associations has unveiled a Charter aimed at promoting peace and good conduct during the election campaign. The document seeks to address the deepening rifts within the country and ensure a more respectful and peaceful electoral process.

The charter, drafted by the Gabonese Patriotic Party and the Gabonese Citizens Movement, comes in light of recent incidents that have exacerbated the political climate. Alain Simplice Boungouere, chairman of the Gabonese Patriotic Party, condemned the rise of tribalism and the formation of political clans, warning that such actions jeopardize national unity.

He pointed to the recent kidnapping of former Prime Minister Alain Claude Bilie By Nze, who was barred from holding political meetings in northern cities, as an example of the dangerous direction the country is heading.

The charter calls on all presidential candidates to show respect for their political opponents, refrain from using inflammatory language, and avoid inciting violence or spreading slander.

Boungouere described the initiative as a non-aggression pact, urging all parties to respect the results of the election and, if contested, to address disputes through authorised legal channels. Copies of the charter have been submitted to the National Council of Democracy, with hopes that all presidential candidates will sign it in an effort to ensure a fair and peaceful election process.
A puzzling disease outbreak in northwestern Congo has claimed 53 lives amid 419 reported cases across two isolated villages, baffling health officials who are racing to identify the deadly pathogen. The outbreaks began on January 21 in Equateur province, with many victims succumbing within hours of showing symptoms.

Health authorities remain uncertain whether the outbreaks in the villagesseparated by over 120 milesare connected. In Boloko village, the first casualties were children who died within 48 hours of consuming bat meat. Meanwhile, Bomate village has recorded significantly more infections, many complicated by malaria co-infection.

The first outbreak with numerous fatalities continues to puzzle us as an unusual situation, while the second episode presents predominantly as malaria cases, explained Dr. Serge Ngalebato, medical director at Bikoro Hospital and government response expert. The World Health Organization has expressed particular concern about the rapid progression from infection to death.

Nearly 80% of patients display similar symptoms: fever, chills, body aches, and diarrhea. Initial fears of hemorrhagic fevers like Ebola have been ruled out through laboratory testing in Kinshasa. Investigators are now exploring multiple possibilities including malaria, viral infections, poisoning, typhoid fever, and meningitis.

Response efforts face significant challenges due to the villages remote locations and limited healthcare infrastructure. Experts deployed since February 14 have struggled to reach patients in time, with several deaths occurring before medical teams arrived.

The outbreak highlights growing concerns about zoonotic diseases in regions where consumption of wild animals is common. Such incidents have increased by over 60% across Africa in the past decade, particularly in forested regions like Congos expansive tropical basin.
Khalifa Haftar has released Mahamadou Saleh, a Nigerien opposition figure, just days after his arrest in southern Libya. The release reportedly followed diplomatic pressure from French President Emmanuel Macron. Italian news agency Nova cited Nigerien sources suggesting that Salehs freedom was also influenced by Rissa Ag Boula, a prominent Tuareg leader in Paris, who is known for his influence in the Sahel region.

Saleh, who previously led an armed group in Libyas Qatrun region, is believed to hold vital intelligence regarding opposition movements against Nigers military junta, which has the backing of Russia. According to Libyan sources, Macron met with Haftar in Paris on February 26 and advised against extraditing Saleh to the junta in Niamey. Since taking power in a July 2023 coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum, Nigers military Government has faced international isolation and criticism, heightening the significance of Salehs release.

The move is seen as potentially reshaping the balance of power in the region, with the release strengthening Nigers opposition forces and further destabilising the military leadership in Niamey. Salehs detention occurred amid escalating violence in Qatrun, where clashes between Haftars son, Saddam Haftar, and forces loyal to Hassan Al-Zadama led to significant disruptions. These confrontations, driven by Al-Zadamas refusal to surrender arms to military police, resulted in the destruction of homes and the interruption of crucial trade routes between Libya, Niger, and Chad.
Clashes between armed groups and the military in northern Benin over the past week have resulted in the death of 10 people, including one soldier, as the country faces an increasing wave of attacks on army positions.

While the economic capital, Cotonou, remains a popular destination for international tourists, the northern regions of Benin, which are economically disadvantaged, have been grappling with such violence for years.

The Government attributes these attacks to jihadi groups attempting to expand their influence from neighbouring Burkina Faso and Niger, where long-running insurgencies have destabilised large areas.

In response to the rising violence, the Beninese military launched an offensive operation overnight from Thursday into Friday February 28, resulting in the deaths of nine militants. The operation, which took place in the commune of Karimama near the Niger border, came after an improvised explosive device (IED) killed one soldier and injured two others in nearby Kantoro.

The area, which borders both Niger and Burkina Faso, has seen an increase in violent incidents, with the northern regions particularly vulnerable to attacks from jihadi groups that capitalise on local ethnic tensions and political instability.

The recent surge in violence has raised concerns about the potential spillover of conflict from neighbouring countries into Benin. In February, six Beninese soldiers were killed by unidentified assailants, with the military retaliating by killing 17 attackers. A month earlier, 28 soldiers were killed in an assault claimed by an Al-Qaida-linked group. The ongoing attacks have prompted Benin to strengthen its security measures, deploying thousands of troops as part of Operation Mirador and recruiting additional personnel for border security. Despite these efforts, experts argue that military-focused strategies have yet to address the root causes of the unrest, including local political issues and ethnic divisions that militant groups exploit to recruit fighters.
Guinea-Bissaus President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has threatened to expel a political mission sent by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), according to a statement from the bloc on Sunday March 2.

The tension stems from a disagreement over the duration of Embalos presidential term, which began in 2020. The political opposition in the West African nation argues that his term should have concluded last week, while the Supreme Court of Justice has ruled it will end on 4 September. The dispute has raised fears of potential unrest in a country with a history of military coups.

The conflict over Embalos mandate has sparked a heightened political climate, with the opposition pushing for earlier elections. Embalo, who served as chair of ECOWAS from mid-2022 to mid-2023, declared on 23 February that both presidential and legislative elections would be postponed until 30 November. This decision has not been well received by all political factions, with the opposition calling for the immediate holding of elections. ECOWAS responded by deploying a mission between 21 and 28 February, alongside the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), to mediate and help reach a consensus on election plans.

However, the ECOWAS mission departed Guinea-Bissau on 1 March after President Embalo threatened to expel it. The blocs statement confirmed that the mission had left Bissau following these threats. This diplomatic row coincides with Embalos recent visit to Moscow for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape of the region. Guinea-Bissau, a former Portuguese colony that gained independence in 1974, is facing growing uncertainty as it navigates its political and electoral challenges.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A "chasm of misunderstanding and miscommunication" is often experienced between clinicians and patients, leading to autoimmune diseases such as lupus and vasculitis being wrongly diagnosed as psychiatric or psychosomatic conditions, with a profound and lasting impact on patients, researchers have found.

A study involving over 3,000 participantsboth patients and cliniciansfound that these misdiagnoses (sometimes termed "in your head" by patients) were often associated with long-term impacts on patients' physical health and well-being and damaged trust in health care services.

The researchers are calling for greater awareness among clinicians of the symptoms of such diseases, which they recognize can be difficult to diagnose, and for more support for patients.

Autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and vasculitis are chronic inflammatory disorders that affect the immune system and can damage organs and tissues throughout the body. They can be very difficult to diagnose as people report a wide range of different symptoms, many of which can be invisible, such as extreme fatigue and depression.

Dr. Melanie Sloan from the University of Cambridge led a study exploring patient-reported experiences from two large groups, each of over 1,500 patients, and in-depth interviews with 67 patients and 50 clinicians. The results are published in Rheumatology.

Patients who reported that their autoimmune disease was misdiagnosed as psychosomatic or a mental health condition were more likely to experience higher levels of depression and anxiety, and lower mental well-being.

For example, one patient with multiple autoimmune diseases said, "One doctor told me I was making myself feel pain and I still can't forget those words. Telling me I'm doing it to myself has made me very anxious and depressed."

More than 80% said it had damaged their self-worth and 72% of patients reported that the misdiagnosis still upset them, often even decades later. Misdiagnosed patients also reported lower levels of satisfaction with every aspect of medical care and were more likely to distrust doctors, downplay their symptoms, and avoid health care services.

As one patient reported, it "has damaged my trust and courage in telling doctors very much. I even stopped taking my immunosuppressive medicine because of those words."

Following these types of misdiagnoses, patients often then blame themselves for their condition. As one individual described: "I don't deserve help because this is a disease I've brought on myself. You go back to those initial diagnoses, you've always got their voices in your head, saying you're doing this to yourself. You just can't ever shake that. I've tried so hard."

One patient described the traumatizing response their doctor's judgment had on them: "When a rheumatologist dismissed me, I was already suicidal. This just threw me over the edge. Thankfully, I am terrible at killing myself. It's so much more challenging than you think. But the dreadful dismissiveness of doctors when you have a bizarre collection of symptoms is traumatizing and you start to believe them, that it's all in your head."

Dr. Melanie Sloan, from the Department of Public Health and Primary Care at the University of Cambridge, said, "Although many doctors were intending to be reassuring in suggesting a psychosomatic or psychiatric cause for initially unexplainable symptoms, these types of misdiagnoses can create a multitude of negative feelings and impacts on lives, self-worth and care.

"These appear to rarely be resolved even after the correct diagnoses. We must do better at helping these patients heal, and in educating clinicians to consider autoimmunity at an earlier stage."

Clinicians highlighted how hard it was to diagnose autoimmune rheumatic diseases and that there was a high risk of misdiagnosis. Some doctors said they hadn't really thought about the long-term problems for patients, but others talked about the problems in regaining trust.

As one GP from England highlighted, "They lose trust in anything that anyone saysyou are trying to convince them that something is OK, and they will say yes, but a doctor before said that and was wrong."

However, there was evidence that this trust can be rebuilt. One patient described having been "badly gaslit by a clinician," but that when they told the clinician this, "She was shocked and had no idea  She was great. Took it on the chin. Listened and heard. Apologized profusely For me, the scar of the original encounter was transformed into something much more positive."

Mike Bosley, autoimmune patient and co-author on the study, said, "We need more clinicians to understand how a misdiagnosis of this sort can result in long-standing mental and emotional harm and in a disastrous loss of trust in doctors. Everyone needs to appreciate that autoimmune conditions can present in these unusual ways, that listening carefully to patients is key to avoiding the long-lasting harm that a mental health or psychosomatic misdiagnosis can cause."

The study authors recommend several measures for improving support for patients with autoimmune rheumatological diseases. These are likely to apply to many other groups of patients with chronic diseases that are often misunderstood and initially misdiagnosed.

They propose that clinicians should talk about previous misdiagnoses with patients, discuss and empathize with their patients as to the effects on them, and offer targeted support to reduce the long-term negative impacts.

Health services should ensure greater access to psychologists and talking therapies for patients reporting previous misdiagnoses, which may reduce the long-term impact on well-being, health care behaviors, and patient-doctor relationships. Education may reduce misdiagnoses by encouraging clinicians to consider systemic autoimmunity when they assess patients with multiple, seemingly unconnected, physical and mental health symptoms.

Professor Felix Naughton, from the Lifespan Health Research Center at the University of East Anglia, said, "Diagnosing autoimmune rheumatic diseases can be challenging, but with better awareness among clinicians of how they present, we can hopefully reduce the risk of misdiagnoses.

"And while there will, unfortunately inevitably, still be patients whose condition is not correctly diagnosed, with the correct support in place, we may be able to lessen the impact on them."

More information: Melanie Sloan et al, "I still can't forget those words": mixed methods study of the persisting impacts on patients reporting psychosomatic and psychiatric misdiagnoses, Rheumatology (2025). DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaf115 Journal information: Rheumatology
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Graphical abstract. Credit: Cell Stem Cell (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2025.01.010

Despite advances in cancer treatment in recent years, five-year survival rates for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain low at just 30% on average, according to the National Cancer Institute. Factors in the development of AML are diverse with many different drivers. A longtime goal for scientists in this field is finding a single drug that can treat all types of AML. A team led by The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) scientists are closer than ever to this goal with their discovery of how a certain protein in the cell nucleus, paraspeckle component 1 (PSPC1), contributes to AML progression.

"The traditional AML treatment is the '3+7' chemotherapy regimen. But AML is highly diverse, with more than 70 known driver mutations. Even targeted therapies like IDH inhibitors can only treat a small subset of AML patients. Given this diversity, we need a uniform, one-for-all drug target to effectively treat AML," said one of the study's primary investigators, Mingjiang Xu, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Molecular Medicine at the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine and CTRC Council Distinguished Chair in Oncology at UT Health San Antonio's Mays Cancer Center.

Xu's team published their findings online February 14, 2025, in Cell Stem Cell. Co-primary investigators include Feng-Chun Yang, MD, Ph.D., tenured professor in the Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, A.B. Alexander Distinguished Chair in Cancer Research, Mays Cancer Center and Jianlong Wang, Ph.D., Columbia University Irving Medical Center.

How PSPC1 fuels blood cancer

AML is an aggressive blood cancer that originates in the bone marrow and is known to impair the differentiation of myeloid cells, which leads to overproduction of immature cells. The condition inhibits normal blood cell formation and compromises the immune system. Successful treatment of AML is complicated for many reasons, said Xu.

About a third of patients do not respond to chemotherapy and about half of the patients who achieved remission will relapse. Additionally, AML exhibits multiple mutations, often two or more in each cancer cell. Precision treatments may target one mutation but not be effective in other mutations.

PSPC1 is one of three proteins in a paraspeckletiny structures inside the cell nucleus believed to regulate gene activity by trapping and releasing RNA molecules. Research in solid tumors shows upregulation of PSPC1 is a strong factor for metastasis in many types of cancer. Upregulation of this protein is higher in AML than any other cancer.

Xu and his research team investigated the role of PSPC1 in AML using both human AML cells and mouse models. They discovered that PSPC1 is not required for normal blood cell formation but is essential for AML development.

In mouse models where PSPC1 was depleted, AML progression was significantly delayed and survival rates improved. Without PSPC1, myeloid cell differentiation resumed, effectively halting cancer progression. This suggests that PSPC1 plays a crucial role in maintaining AML characteristics. When tested in mouse models of different types of AML, knockdown of PSPC1 restored cell differentiation and stopped leukemic progression in each one.

"PSPC1 goes to specific chromatin regions and regulates important pro-leukemic genes through a non-canonical mechanism. When PSPC1 is knocked down, it can no longer promote these leukemic genes, leading to differentiation and apoptosis [cell death] of AML cells. We also found that PSPC1 alone regulates the leukemic gene transcription program consisting of many key leukemic genes," said Xu.

Concurrent role of PU.1

The mechanism behind PSPC1's oncogenic role was revealed through its interaction with PU.1, a transcription factor essential for blood and immune cell development. This interaction activated tumor-promoting genes, including NDC1, a gene not previously implicated in AML.

"PSPC1 and the transcription factor PU.1 work together to cooperatively drive the leukemic transcription program. This underlying mechanism makes PSPC1 a novel therapeutic target," said Xu.

What happens to AML without PSPC1?

Further experiments showed that knocking down PSPC1 led to reduced expression of AML-associated genes, increased myeloid differentiation and a decrease in cancer cell growth. Importantly, PSPC1 knockdown had no adverse effects on normal blood cell formation.

"Targeting PSPC1 could offer a new avenue for AML treatment," said Xu. "By disrupting its binding to the chromatin and/or interaction with PU.1, we may be able to restore normal myeloid differentiation and inhibit cancer growth."

Beyond AML

Along with AML, PSPC1 has been identified in 21 different cancer cell lines, primarily in solid tumors where its overexpression contributes to disease progression. This raises the possibility that PSPC1-targeted therapies could have broader applications in oncology. Researchers are now exploring techniques to selectively inhibit PSPC1 in cancer cells while preserving its function in normal cells.

"We used PSPC1 knockout mice to show that PSPC1 inhibition is not toxicthe animals were completely normal even after knocking out PSPC1 and observing them for over two years. This makes PSPC1 an even more attractive drug target, as we can hit it [AML] hard without worrying about severe adverse effects," said Xu.

Xu said they are currently working with Daohong Zhou, MD, tenured professor of biochemistry and structural biology, associate director for drug development at Mays Cancer Center and director of The University of Texas at San Antonio's Center for Innovative Drug Discovery to begin testing potential drug candidates that may inhibit PSPC1.

"The development of PSPC1 inhibitors or degraders will have a huge impact not just on AML, but also on solid tumors like lung and prostate cancer, by preventing metastasis. This further increases the significance of our future drug development efforts targeting PSPC1," said Xu.

More information: Hong et al, PSPC1 exerts an oncogenic role in AML by regulating a leukemic transcription program in cooperation with PU.1, Cell Stem Cell (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2025.01.010 Journal information: Cell Stem Cell
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Oonjee Oh. Credit: Eric Sucar/University of Pennsylvania

A few years ago, when second-year School of Nursing Ph.D. student Oonjee Oh was working as a nurse on a general surgery unit in South Korea, she was struck by the feeling that many patients weren't getting the opportunity to think about end-of-life care options.

"There were a lot of seriously ill patients who were going to the ICU, back to our unit, and then, a few days later, they would go back again to the ICU and then back to our unit." Oh says, "And even though these patients were very seriously ill, no one was really talking about comfort-focused care, or whether these aggressive types of treatments were really in their best interest."

The observation put her on a path to her current research focus on palliative carefirst to how families decide to enroll a loved one with dementia into hospice, and then to an interest in the role of artificial intelligence in end-of-life decision-making and caregiver support.

Oh was the lead author on the paper "The ethical dimensions of utilizing Artificial Intelligence in palliative care," which was published in the journal Nursing Ethics in November. This paper grew out of work she did in Inquiry and Nursing, a course she took her first semester at Penn.

The paper applies the moral principles of beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, justice, and explicability to examine the ethical dimensions of three hypothetical use cases: machine learning algorithms that predict patient mortality, natural language processing models that capture the signals of psychological distress from clinical notes, and chatbots that provide informational and emotional support to caregivers.

"As technology advances, ethical principles and practices frequently lag behind, and AI is no exception," says faculty advisor and co-author Connie M. Ulrich, the Lillian S. Brunner Chair in Medical and Surgical Nursing, professor of nursing, and professor of medical ethics and health policy.

She says Oh's paper "encourages us to consider both the benefits and challenges of using AI in supportive care for patients and families. These include the importance of autonomy and personal decision-making, the possibility of distress from using AI, biases in algorithms, and treatment predictions, among other concerns."

Oh's other faculty advisor and co-author is Penn Integrates Knowledge University Professor George Demiris, who has joint appointments in the School of Nursing and the Perelman School of Medicine. It was the opportunity to work with faculty across disciplines that made Penn Nursing appealing, Oh says.

"I always wanted to learn more about how technology could play a role in this space, and Dr. Demiris leads various projects on telehealth and smart homes for older adults or patients in hospice," Oh says.

"In addition to how technology can support end-of-life care, I have always been interested in how patients and families make the decision for palliative care and the conflicts that arise during that processethical dilemmas are often intertwined with those issuesso I find Dr. Ulrich's expertise in bioethics very inspirational and insightful."

Oh says Ulrich's work inspired her to pursue a dual degree with a Master of Bioethics.

Oh's interest in data science and AI, she says, started while she was pursuing her master's degree in nursing in Seoul at the peak of the COVID pandemic. Unable to go out into the field to interview or collect data from patients, she focused her research on national survey data and became interested in analyzing big data. Her interest in coding and advanced statistical models led her to learn more about various research methodologies at a doctoral level.

When she started her Ph.D. in the fall of 2023, ChatGPT "was starting to get a lot of attention as a potential tool to advance health care and its workflow," she says. "Since it is so new, people were excited, but they were also very concerned about how these generative AI tools could be used to help patients and families, especially in the end-of-life space, since a lot of vulnerable populations would be impacted."

In December 2023, Oh attended "ChatGPT and Aging: Implications of Generative AI for Gerontology," a two-day roundtable discussion that Penn Nursing held with the Penn Artificial Intelligence and Technologies Collaboratory for Healthy Aging (PennAITech), of which Demiris is a principal investigator. Oh is also an Innovation Fellow with PennAITech, which involves getting invited to conferences and helping evaluate applications for pilot grants.

Oh worked with Hannah Choanother Penn Nursing Ph.D. student and Innovation Fellow who researches palliative careon a literature review of how artificial intelligence is being used for older adults. Publishing their findings this month in The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences, they found that AI system design processes often overlook the needs of older adults.

Oh, Cho, and Sang Bin You, also a Penn Nursing Ph.D. student and a PennAITech Innovation Fellow, were the student members of the planning committee for the two-day AI and Nursing Science workshop that Penn Nursing held in January. Demiris chaired the committee.

"Nurses have to inform the design and development of AI tools for health care," Demiris says. "Oonjee's work advances our insights into the role AI can play in nursing science and practice with an emphasis on systems that promote fairness and accountability and capture the patient's voice."

More information: Oonjee Oh et al, The ethical dimensions of utilizing Artificial Intelligence in palliative care, Nursing Ethics (2024). DOI: 10.1177/09697330241296874 Hannah Cho et al, Engagement of Older Adults in the Design, Implementation and Evaluation of Artificial Intelligence Systems for Aging: A Scoping Review, The Journals of Gerontology, Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences (2025). DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glaf024
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Credit: Vladyslav Dukhin from Pexels

It took nearly three years to win presumptive workers' compensation coverage for breast, cervical, and other cancers that firefighters who work for federal agencies may develop because of hazardous exposures on the job.

Now, just weeks after the Labor Department added coverage for those illnesses, firefighters worry the gains may be in jeopardy after the Trump administration deleted information about the expansion of coverage for cancers that mostly affect women and transgender firefighters from a federal webpage and ducked questions about whether it will uphold the policy change made in the waning days of the Biden administration.

"It's really important to continue to focus on ensuring that those who devote their lives to protecting the public and communities continue to receive coverage through the special claims unit," said Pete Dutchick, a federal firefighter and volunteer with the advocacy group Grassroots Wildland Firefighters.

The Labor Department's special claims unit, established in 2022, processes all federal firefighter claims and provides a streamlined path for those with covered conditions.

Wildland firefighters and advocacy groups representing them celebrated that year when federal officials moved to expedite workers' compensation coverage of cancers tied to their jobs. It was recognition that the dangers of battling wildfires extend long after a blaze is extinguished.

The list of cancers federal officials tagged for streamlined claims processes through the Labor Department's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs included esophageal, colorectal, prostate, testicular, kidney, bladder, brain, lung, thyroid, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, leukemia, mesothelioma, and melanoma.

But that initial jubilation soured when it became clear that breast, ovarian, cervical, and uterine cancers were excluded, creating a coverage gap for more than 2,700 people, or about 16% of the more than 17,000 federal wildland firefighters working for the Forest Service and the Interior Department. These are firefighters who are dispatched to federal lands, like in national forests and national parks, and sometimes assist county and state crews, as they did when fires swept into Los Angeles in January.

"At first glance, we were ecstatic," Dutchick said. "And then we're like, 'Well, where are the female cancers?'"

Then this year, as the Biden administration wound toward a close, federal officials addressed the exclusion, adding the cancers to the list in a last-minute change before Donald Trump took office.

"This policy change acknowledges the unique occupational hazards faced by women firefighters and ensures they receive the care and support they deserve," Christopher Godfrey, the now-former director of the workers' compensation office, said in a Jan. 6 statement on the Labor Department's website.

In a statement to KFF Health News four days later, Godfrey said the policy change resulted in immediate action for firefighters with new claims.

But in the early days of the Trump administration, the January press release announcing the cancer coverage expansion was deleted from the Labor Department website. When asked whether claims were still being processed for the four recently added cancers, a spokesperson for the workers' compensation office, Frances Alonzo, told KFF Health News, "We do not have any additional updates regarding your inquiry."

Formalizing the policy change through rulemaking will take months and support from Congress.

More than 15 wildland firefighter advocacy groups, representing Hotshot crews, smokejumpers, and others, have signed a September letter to Julie Su, the acting labor secretary at the time. They pointed out that other countries, including Australia, already included presumptive coverage for cervical, ovarian, uterine, and breast cancers.

The Labor Department implemented policy changes that eased the requirements for covering wildland firefighters' cancer-related workers' compensation claims in April 2022 through a Federal Employees' Compensation Act bulletin. The rules were codified in December 2022 when President Joe Biden signed the National Defense Authorization Act.

To qualify, firefighters must have worked for at least five years and be diagnosed within 10 years of their last exposure. Those with unlisted cancers could still file claims through a special unit but wouldn't receive the same streamlined adjudication for compensation. By September 2024, the workers' compensation office had received 91 claims for qualifying cancers and heart and lung conditions.

Of those, 89 were adjudicated through the special claims process and 84, or 94%, were accepted. Godfrey said that prior to the legislation, only 29% of occupational disease claims for firefighters were accepted.

Rachel Granberg, a wildland firefighter in Washington state, said streamlined processing and reimbursements are important. "It really gives people more bandwidth to worry about how they're going to manage their life after a cancer diagnosis, rather than just fighting for basic health care."

Too often firefighters end up crowdsourcing for financial support after cancer diagnoses, she said.

George Broyles, retired firefighter and Forest Service researcher, said that health risks are too often seen as part of the job. "Hazard pay is not going to stop cancer," he said. Broyles wants federal firefighting agencies to be honest about cancer risks when hiring young workers and then educate them on ways to protect themselves.

The recent policy change meant claims for federal wildland firefighters with ovarian, breast, or uterine cancer were immediately directed to the special claims unit and expedited processing.

The Labor Department's decision to change course and expand presumptive coverage to female reproductive cancers was sudden. In December, the agency released a statement to KFF Health News saying such a change was unwarranted.

Three weeks laterwithout pointing to any new published researchthe agency changed course, citing additional consultation with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and with Steven Moffatt, a doctor who specializes in firefighter illnesses. The agency conducts periodic reviews to consider adding new conditions to its coverage.

The Labor Department's initial exclusion of female reproductive cancers illuminated the repercussions of research on wildland firefighter health in which women are understudied. One review found that only three out of 20 studies evaluated women firefighters' cancer risk.

But research has confirmed for years that firefighters are exposed to toxic dangers. A study that followed Florida firefighters for almost 20 years in the 1980s and 1990s found that firefighting increases the overall cancer risk in female firefighters. In 2022, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified firefighting as a cancer-causing occupation.

Recent research contributed to the agency's inclusion of female reproductive cancers, Godfrey said. In 2023, a study determined a link between perfluorononanoic acid, a type of PFAS, and uterine cancer. PFAS, which stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a category of chemicals that a recent study found in the protective gear worn by wildland firefighters.

Additional research has also linked PFAS exposure to an increase in melanoma. A study published in September identified 12 chemicals that firefighters are exposed to on the job linked to breast cancer.

But now, it's unclear whether the Trump administration will roll back the new coverage, leaving some federal firefighters unsure whether exposures on the job will leave them scrambling for care.

2025 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Iranian media has once again drawn attention to Armenias persistent pollution of the Araz River, emphasizing the severe ecological consequences of this long-standing issue, Azernews reports.

Citing extensive government and university research, as well as statements from officials, parliamentarians, and experts, Iranian media confirmed that Armenia has been polluting the Araz River with heavy metals for at least 15 years. This continuous contamination has had a detrimental impact on vegetation, wildlife, and human health in the region.

The pollution primarily originates from Armenias mining operations and the Metsamor nuclear power plant, introducing harmful elements such as aluminum, copper, manganese, arsenic, lead, and vanadium into the river. Studies conducted last year on different sections of the river, including those before and after the Nurduz Pass, confirm the presence of heavy metals in its waters.

Iranian authorities have repeatedly expressed concern over the contamination. In August 2023, Iranian Energy Minister Abbas Aliabadi announced plans to transport Araz River water to Tabriz to meet the drinking water needs of 2.5 million residents in cities such as Jolfa, Hadishehr, Marand, Sufian, and Shabistar. However, past research has shown that the river is severely polluted, raising alarms about the potential health risks associated with its use.

Environmental studies have identified as many as 59 different metals in the rivers waters near Irans Jananli village, with 61 metals detected in river sediments. The contamination levels correspond with waste discharged from Armenias Agarak copper and molybdenum mine. The concentration of aluminum, manganese, and lead in the water exceeds environmental and health safety standards, posing a threat to both human consumption and aquatic life.

Further research suggests that pollution from the Metsamor nuclear power plant has led to an increase in stomach cancer cases in the region. In particular, Irans Ardabil province, despite ranking 22nd in population, has the highest incidence of gastrointestinal cancer, indicating a possible link to contaminated water sources.

In November 2023, Iran and Armenia reached an agreement aimed at eliminating pollution in the Araz River within a year. However, reports indicate that no significant measures have been taken by Armenia to address the issue.

The ongoing environmental crisis has been widely covered by both Iranian and Azerbaijani media, with experts and policymakers calling for urgent action to protect the Araz River and the communities that depend on it.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Many roles in the state and local health department workforce are comparatively underpaid, and job requirements are often lower compared to the private sector, according to a new study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. This potentially creates recruitment and retention challenges and produces a workforce that may be less prepared for public health crises.

The findings are published in the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice.

The study is among the first to provide detailed data on salary differences between jobs in state and local health departments compared to similar jobs in other sectors, using a dataset of millions of job postings for the comparison. Until now, federal data on salaries for employees of local and state health departments has been limited.

"Our findings can begin to inform health departments seeking to benchmark salaries to improve recruitment and retention of key staff," said Heather Krasna, Ph.D., EdM, MS, associate dean of Career and Professional Development at Columbia Mailman School. "Health departments experience significant challenges with recruitment and retention, especially for leadership and management positions as well as computer/IT roles, and nurses are especially underpaid, contributing to workforce gaps and challenges meeting public health needs."

"Using job postings for workforce research provides an alternative, real-time method to assess job requirements and salaries," noted Krasna. "Our goal was to utilize data from job postings to determine whether there were significant differences in salary, education, or experience requirements when comparing jobs in local or state government health departments with the same types of jobs posted in other sectors."

Using Lightcast, a large-scale and comprehensive database of job postings, with up to 3.5 million U.S. postings from 160 000 online sources, the researchers gathered real-time data on salary, education, and experience requirements for 44 public health occupations, contrasting those in state and local health departments (SLHDs) with those in all other sectors. They also assessed salary differences and contrasted minimum education and experience levels. A unique feature of Lightcast is its ability to collect close to the "full universe" of job postings rather than a random sample.

In total, 16,284 job postings were collected for state and local government health departments (SLHDs), and 12,609,441 in the private sector. Twenty-seven occupations paid significantly less in SLHDs, and 6 paid significantly more. For 37 occupations, SLHDs were less likely to require a master's degree than the private sector. Certain SLHD positions require less education and/or experience, while also paying less.

"Consistent findings that many occupations are relatively lower paying in health departments create implications for sustainability in the workforce," said Krasna. "Health departments should consider using data from job postings to benchmark their salaries and advocate for more competitive wages, especially for 'hard-to-fill' positions, and to better advertise their benefits to attract candidates."

SLHDs are short-staffed by at least 80,000 workers, according to recent estimates. Temporary post-pandemic funding such as the Public Health Infrastructure Grant had been made available to hire public health workers, but such funds do not necessarily increase salaries.

It is noteworthy that many key positions in health departmentsespecially management and leadership roles, computer occupations, and scientific and surveillance roles, such as statisticians, engineers, environmental scientists, or policy analysts (with the title of political scientist)require only a bachelor's degree, whereas the private sector requires a master's or higher degree.

These occupations can serve in frontline roles in disease surveillance and public safety, and considering the many calls to modernize the public health data infrastructure, the lower education level required for epidemiologists, statisticians, and computer occupations raises questions about whether government workers are well-prepared for their roles.

"It is possible that for many of these occupations, government might require less education because their salaries are too low to be able to attract applicants with more education. Alternately, health departments may be relying on 'on-the-job training,' or they may be flexible on education requirements in order to attract a more diverse candidate pool, including individuals with less access to higher education or graduate degrees," observed Krasna.

"Future research about differences in education or experience between SLHD and similar workers in other sectors could help illuminate whether such differences have an impact on the health of the communities SLHDs serve."

While SLHDs may offer better benefits than the private sector to make up for lower salaries, disparities of 25% and higher are likely to make hiring extremely difficult for certain roles and contribute to recruitment and retention difficulties, according to Krasna.

"Health departments may have little control over the salaries offered to their staff due to regulations and civil service requirements, but gathering more information about salary disparities may help health departments make the case to policymakers that wage increases are needed for certain positions in health departments."

Co-authors are Isabella Patino, and Malvika Venkataraman, Columbia Mailman School; and Sezan Ozcan Onal, University of Minnesota.

More information: Heather Krasna et al, Salary and Job Requirement Differences for Jobs in Local and State Health Departments Versus the Private Sector: Analysis of Large-Scale Job Postings Data, Journal of Public Health Management & Practice (2025). DOI: 10.1097/PHH.0000000000002129
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Black immigrant adults in the United States are more likely to be uninsured than their U.S.-born and non-Black immigrant counterparts, despite having the highest employment rates among the groups studied, according to new research from the Equity Research Institute (ERI) at the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences.

Published in Health Affairs, the study highlights critical health care access gaps for this rapidly growing segment of the U.S. population, suggesting possible links to wage penalties and systemic barriers based on race and immigration status.

"Our results suggest that Black immigrants may be concentrated in jobs that don't offer health insurance benefits, potentially due to lower wages or limited access to employer-sponsored benefits," said Ezinne Nwankwo, ERI's National Equity Atlas Postdoctoral Scholar and the study's lead and corresponding author.

"Factors such as fears related to immigration status, complexities in navigating coverage within mixed-status families, policy restrictions, language barriers and employment in sectors that do not provide health insurance may contribute to these disparities," she said.

High employment, low coverage

Black immigrants make up a substantial and rapidly expanding segment of the Black population in the United States. A total of 4.6 million (1 in 10) Black people living in the United States are immigrants, a number that has tripled since 1980 and is projected to more than double again by 2060.

The majority of Black immigrants in the United States come from the Caribbean and Africa, which together made up 88% of the Black foreign-born population in 2019.

The Caribbean is the most common region of birth for Black immigrants (46%), with Jamaica and Haiti as the leading countries of origin. However, African immigrants have been the main driver of recent growth in the Black immigrant population, increasing 246% since 2000. They now make up 42% of Black immigrants in the United States, primarily from Nigeria and Ethiopia, according to the Pew Research Center.

To understand health insurance coverage across racial and immigrant groups, the researchers used data from the U.S. Census Bureau's five-year American Community Survey (ACS) from 2017-2021 and the Survey of Income and Program Participation (SIPP). Because the ACS does not collect data on immigration status, ERI developed a dataset that distinguishes between undocumented individuals, naturalized citizens and those with different visa types (e.g., student, H-1B).

The researchers' analysis considered factors like employment, state Medicaid coverage and language barriers that could influence access to health care coverage. They then compared Black immigrants with their U.S.-born Black and U.S.- and foreign-born white, Latino and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) counterparts.

They found that Black immigrants have a 9% higher likelihood of being uninsured compared to U.S.-born white adults. This disparity occurs despite Black immigrants having a 70.2% employment rate, higher than the 60.5% rate for U.S.-born Black individuals, according to U.S. Census data.

In contrast, there were no significant differences in insurance coverage between U.S.-born Black and white individuals.

The study also found significant disparities among Latino populations. U.S.-born Latinos were 31% more likely to be uninsured than U.S.-born white individuals, while Latino immigrants faced more than twice the odds of lacking coverage.

Both Black immigrants and Latino populationswhether U.S.-born or immigrantwere less likely to receive employer-sponsored or union-backed health insurance compared to U.S.-born white individuals.

"Addressing these systemic issues requires comprehensive policy reforms that consider the unique challenges faced by immigrants," said Manuel Pastor, director of ERI and co-author of the study.

"Ensuring equitable access to health care is not only a matter of social justice but also essential for the well-being of our communities," said Pastor, a Distinguished Professor of Sociology and American Studies and Ethnicity and Turpanjian Chair in Civil Society and Social Change at USC Dornsife.

Gender disparities in health insurance coverage

Female respondents across all groups were significantly less likely to be uninsured than their male counterparts. Previous research indicates higher U.S. naturalization rates among immigrant women, suggesting they may play an important role in helping their families and communities navigate the United States' complex health care system.

"As primary caregivers and community connectors, immigrant women are uniquely positioned to expand outreach and ensure their families access the benefits they are entitled to," Nwankwo said.

Training them could be an effective strategy for increasing coverage, particularly among underserved groups, including men, she added.

"Our findings underscore the deep-rooted inequities in health care access that persist despite employment and economic contributions from immigrant populations," Pastor said. "Tackling these issues with policy reforms and community-driven solutions could ensure more equitable access to health care, particularly for those most at risk of being left out."

More information: Ezinne Nwankwo et al, When The Color Line Meets The Borderline: Health Insurance Coverage Among Black Immigrant Adults In The US, Health Affairs (2025). DOI: 10.1377/hlthaff.2024.00672 Journal information: Health Affairs
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A patient who came to a hospital emergency room in Montgomery County is Pennsylvania's first confirmed measles case this year amid a national surge of the highly contagious virus, according to health officials.

According to the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services Office of Public Health, an infected patient was seen at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in King of Prussia on Wednesday. No other details about the patient were available Saturday.

"More information will be shared regarding exposure sites, dates and times when available," a spokesperson for the county's public health office said in a written statement. "CHOP and the Office of Public Health have been in contact with potentially affected individuals."

Measles is a highly infectious virus that spreads through breathing in infected air or touching infected surfaces, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The illness can be especially dangerous for children under 5, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems.

A measles infection can lead to respiratory failure, inflammation of the brain, and death. The virus can also, in rare cases, cause a year-long decline of the brain that results in death. Symptoms, which include a high fever, cough, koplik spots (lesions on the inner lining of cheeks) and a rash, can appear about a week or two after exposure.

The local case is one of 164 across nine states this year as of Thursday, according to the CDC's most recent data.

On Wednesday, Texas health officials announced the death of an unvaccinated school-aged child in rural West Texas, marking the first measles-related fatality in the nation since 2015.

In response to the growing outbreak, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been critical of long-established vaccines, expressed minimal concern over the rise in cases.

"We're following the measles epidemic every day," Kennedy said during President Donald Trump's Cabinet meeting on Wednesday. "Incidentally, there have been four measles outbreaks this year in this country. ... So it's not unusual. We have measles outbreaks every year."

In January 2024, there were eight reported measles cases in Philadelphia, including five infected children from a Northeast day-care center.

The first of six people to be hospitalized for treatment was an infant at CHOP, who contracted the disease in early December 2023 while outside the country.

While the United States eliminated measles in 2000, Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at CHOP, said the ongoing outbreaks are caused by a "critical percentage" of parents choosing not to vaccinate their children.

Based on a new report from Children First PA, the non-medical exemption rate of Philadelphia kindergartners (those who request vaccination exemptions for reasons other than medical need) quadrupled from 0.6% to 2.4% between 2015 and 2024.

Offit said the reason a growing number of families are avoiding the MMR vaccine is because of the spread of disinformation and the mishandling of cases by figures like Kennedy.

"You have someone who's the head of Health and Human Services who hasn't stood up and said the one thing you want to hear him say, which is get vaccinated and vaccinate your children."

Of every 1,000 children who are infected with the disease, between one and three will die, according to the Philadelphia Department of Health.

Nearly 34% of the 164 reported measles cases in 2025 involve children 5 and under, and 48% are between ages 5 and 19, according to the CDC.

To prevent the contraction and spread of the disease, health officials highly recommend the MMR vaccine. One dose, which babies can receive when they are a year old, is 93% effective at preventing measles, according to the CDC . Two doses improve that rate to 97%.

Free MMR vaccines are available to all residents at any Philadelphia health center.

2025 The Philadelphia Inquirer. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Breastfeeding can be a challenge for many new moms, regardless of where they live. However, a new study from the University of Missouri highlights a unique struggle faced by mothers in rural America: a lack of access to support systems and information. As a result, rural moms are more likely to stop breastfeeding within the first few days or weeks compared to their urban and suburban counterparts.

Like all new mothers, women in rural areas want to ensure their babies are getting enough nourishmentbut without proper guidance on breastfeeding best practices, it can be difficult to gauge.

"Growing up in rural Missouri and working in maternal child health myself, I wanted to understand how rural moms in Missouri made their decisions about breastfeeding and how their rural environment impacted those decisions," said Karry Weston, the study's lead author and a postdoctoral fellow in Mizzou's Sinclair School of Nursing.

"I found that many of the rural moms I spoke with were highly motivated to breastfeed at first and were aware of the many health benefits breastfeeding provides for both them and their babiesthey just ended up not sticking with it after a few days or weeks."

During her research, Weston discovered several factors that led rural moms to discontinue breastfeeding after a short period of time. Those factors include a lack of practical knowledge about what to expect, feeling overwhelmed, a lack of access to lactation consultants in rural areas and a lack of community support.

For her study, Weston interviewed first-time moms throughout rural Missouri about their experiences feeding their newborn babies. She found that many were unsure whether their babies were getting enough milk or if they were producing sufficient supplies. The research is published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing.

Some rural moms Weston spoke with had questions regarding pumping or latching techniques. Others found formula to be more convenient given their busy schedules with work and school. Some rural moms reported being hours away from the nearest lactation consultant. Others came from families and communities where formula feeding is considered the norm.

Weston hopes this research can help improve the information, resources and support given to new moms.

Telehealth and home visiting nurse programs with lactation-certified nurses can be potential touchpoints for rural moms looking for breastfeeding guidance.

Weston's interest in this research stemmed from her experience at Hannibal Regional Hospital, Missouri's first hospital to be designated "baby-friendly" for its efforts to increase breastfeeding rates. Working as both a labor and delivery nurse and a childbirth educator, Weston recognized the need to find ways to better support new moms immediately after they give birth.

"For example, we give them pumps, but we could also give them more information about how to use them or what to expect when pumping," Weston said. "Some moms may think they are not producing enough milk when in reality, they are. We can help moms feel more confident."

Weston added that giving new moms more practical tips on balancing breastfeeding with a busy lifestyle can be beneficial. Local support systems can also offer valuable assistance.

"For new moms, seeing someone in their family or community successfully breastfeeding can be very inspiring and lead to a domino effect," Weston said. "When rural moms who choose to breastfeed have the support of family, friends, neighbors or co-workers who also chose to breastfeed, the support system is very encouraging to rural moms by reducing the stigma."

Mizzou's emphasis on supporting rural communities, particularly with MU Extension programs, motivates Weston to continue her research.

"Hopefully I can help rural moms access more support and feel more confident in whatever decisions they choose," Weston said. "Whether it is hearing new moms say they used a new resource or learned about a new program that improved their experience, I feel motivated to support rural moms."

More information: Karry Weston et al, Expectations and Perspectives About Infant Feeding of Their First Child Among Rural Women, Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2024.11.004
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A new research report shows that 1 in 5 people using drugs and alcohol have symptoms of ADHD and that this rate increases to over one-third among people using benzodiazepines. The reportlaunched at a seminar this morning in Dublin's Wynn's Hotelalso shows that the highest rates of ADHD overall were found among women using these drugs.

The research was carried out for the Citywide Drugs Crisis Campaigna national network of community activists and organizations involved in responding to issues of drug useby a team from Trinity's School of Nursing and Midwifery led by Professor Catherine Comiskey.

Professor Comiskey explained that the aim of the study was to provide up-to-date estimates of the prevalence of neurodiversity among people accessing addiction services in Ireland and internationally and to identify the risk and protective factors to inform appropriate service responses.

Professor Comiskey said, "Our team reviewed evidence from 32 countries around the world from 1997 to 2024 with a total sample of almost 57,000 people. Our review of this data revealed that the overall estimate of the prevalence of ADHD within the population of people using drugs and alcohol was 21%. When comparing rates of prevalence across substances, the data showed that over one third of benzodiazepine users display ADHD symptoms.

"Our research also involved a study of qualitative interviews with service providers and we found that the majority of them did not have any formal education or training in neurodiversity. In fact, managing the needs of neurodiverse service users has been learned 'on the job' using a trial-and-error approach."

Research highlights

Professor Comiskey highlighted some other issues that emerged from the research with service providers:

Working to meet and understand the needs of neurodivergent people provides major challenges for service provider staff;

Some service users with neurodiverse conditions can take years to find an effective treatment program that addresses their needs;

The lack of a formal referral pathway in the Irish health system for adults seeking a formal diagnosis of neurodiverse conditions is a barrier to effective treatment;

Providing appropriate support for service users with neurodiverse conditions who also have mental health and alcohol problems has been found to be a major challenge.

In terms of addressing these issues, Professor Comiskey and her team set out a number of recommendations. "It's important that all services and settings for people using drugs and alcohol address the issue of neurodiversity as part of their comprehensive assessment process.

"In addition, immediate training needs to be provided to staff at all levels in these services and this training should be extended to 'family members.' To ensure that such training is sustainable, it is recommended that a module on neurodiversity be provided in all relevant educational programs in health and social care."

Recommendations from the report

The processes and practice of services for people using drugs and alcohol need to be modified to ensure that they adopt a neurodiverse informed and non-stigmatizing approach;

The HSE needs to provide appropriate assessment, screening and interventions for people with ADHD and this needs to be coordinated with addiction services;

There is an ethical onus on the Department of Health and professional bodies to disseminate and implement the care recommended by the international consensus statements on the diagnosis and treatment of people using substances and who have ADHD.

Ken Kilbride, CEO ADHD Ireland, added, "On behalf of ADHD Ireland, I would like to highly commend Citywide for commissioning this research, which highlights the severe impact ADHD can have across someone's lifespan when not suitably supported."
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More states are loosening vaccine mandates, scaling back vaccine promotion efforts and taking other steps likely to lower vaccination rateseven as a major measles outbreak spreads in Texas.

Meanwhile, public health experts worry that the confirmation of vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services could add fuel to such efforts, leading to the resurgence of long-tamed infectious diseases. Kennedy has made numerous baseless or false claims about vaccines, including linking them to autism and cancer and saying there is "poison" in the coronavirus vaccine.

This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which Kennedy now oversees, canceled the upcoming meeting of a scientific panel that was slated to discuss next year's flu vaccines. Also this week, an unvaccinated child died of measles in Texas the country's first measles death in a decade. The outbreak, which has spilled into neighboring New Mexico, has now grown to more than 130 cases.

Already, vaccination rates are lower than they were before the pandemic. The COVID-19 vaccines saved millions of lives, but many Americans bristled at vaccine mandates, and disinformation and rapidly evolving public health advice undermined many people's trust in scientific authorities.

Changing attitudes have had an impact: Vaccination rates among children born in 2020 and 2021 declined by between 1.3 and 7.8 percentage points for recommended shots, compared with children born in 2018 and 2019, according to a September report by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The anti-vaccination trend is "the antithesis of public health," Dr. Scott Rivkees, a pediatric endocrinologist who served as Florida's surgeon general and health secretary from 2019 to 2021, told Stateline.

"The role of people in departments of health and the role of people in health care and medicine is to promote health and make sure the public is safe," Rivkees told Stateline. "There's such a rich history of legal precedent, such a rich history of public health precedent, saying that society benefits by having individuals vaccinated."

In all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, children must receive certain vaccines to attend school. Every state offers an exemption for children who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons. Thirty states plus the district allow families to skip the vaccinations for religious reasons, 13 states grant exemptions for religious or personal reasons, and two statesLouisiana and Minnesotadon't require people to specify whether their objection is religious or personal.

Five statesCalifornia, Connecticut, Maine, New York and West Virginiadon't allow nonmedical exemptions.

Republican officials in more than a dozen states have introduced legislation to loosen vaccine rules or otherwise reduce their use.

Legislation in Arizona would make it easier to claim a school exemption, while GOP-sponsored bills in Connecticut, Minnesota, New York and Oregon would limit or prohibit vaccine mandates for adults.

In Idaho, a Senate panel last week debated a bill that would ban mRNA vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, for a decade. Montana and Mississippi lawmakers considered but defeated similar proposals. And in West Virginiaone of the five states that currently does not allow nonmedical exemptions to school vaccine requirementslawmakers are advancing a bill that would allow religious and philosophical objections.

"Public health will always, to some extent, involve politics, because it requires resources," said Dr. Paul Offit, director of the Vaccine Education Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Offit serves on the FDA panel that was supposed to discuss next year's flu vaccines.

"But it doesn't have to be partisan, which is what has happened."

A shift in Louisiana

Earlier this month, Dr. Ralph Abraham, Louisiana's first-ever surgeon general, sent a memo to staff at the Louisiana Department of Health saying they should no longer recommend that Louisianans get "any and all vaccines." The memo also said the agency will "no longer promote mass vaccination." Instead, Abraham said, health workers should encourage residents to discuss the risks and benefits of vaccines with their doctors.

The memo puts an end to the Louisiana health department's robust history of promoting vaccinations through local public health departments, community health fairs and media campaigns.

"Vaccines should be treated with nuance, recognizing differences between seasonal vaccines and childhood immunizations, which are an important part of providing immunity to our children.  Getting vaccinated, like any other health procedure, is an individual's personal choice," the memo states.

The agency did not respond to multiple requests for comment via email and phone call. But in a letter posted to the department's website earlier this month, Abraham wrote that the state had made several missteps during the pandemic, including: promoting "inaccurate and inconsistent guidance on masking, poor decisions to close schools, unjustifiable mandates on civil liberties, and false claims regarding natural immunity."

Abraham wrote that vaccinations can be good for some, but can be harmful for others, and that for decades public health has been driven by an ideology that "the sacrifice of a few is acceptable and necessary for the 'greater good.'"

"We should reject this utilitarian approach and restore medical decision-making to its proper place: between doctors and patients," he wrote.

Louisiana Republican lawmakers have embraced this sentiment, saying that after the COVID-19 pandemic, they want to see less government involvement in vaccinations.

"I'm pleased that Dr. Abraham has taken this approach," said Republican state Rep. Kathy Edmonston, who last year authored laws prohibiting Louisiana schools from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations and mandating that they provide exemption information to parents. "I'm not against vaccinations. He's not against vaccinations. I'm for people being able to make up their own mind."

Jill Hines, co-director of Health Freedom Louisiana, a group that opposes vaccine mandates, dismissed the significance of ending mass vaccination campaigns, because "everybody should have a primary care physician if they want one, and nobody is really denied access to a vaccine."

But Kimberly Hood, former assistant secretary of the Louisiana Office of Public Health, noted that the state is largely rural, and many residents don't have easy access to a health care provider.

"Failing to promote vaccination may not sound like a huge deal, but it actually invalidates what we in public health have seen and learned for many, many years, which is that you have to make it easy, affordable, and accessible," Hood told Stateline.

"It's not just stepping away from vaccinations; we're stepping away from our kind of obligation together, what it means to live together in a society."

Staying the course in Mississippi

But in neighboring Mississippi, which is also Republican-dominated, GOP leaders are staying the courseat least so far. More than two dozen anti-vaccine bills have died in the Mississippi legislature in the past two years, including this year's proposed ban on mRNA vaccines.

The state struggled with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy during the pandemic, and in 2022, Republican Gov. Tate Reeves signed into law a measure banning COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

But for years, Mississippi maintained one of the highest childhood vaccination rates in the nation. The state slipped from first to third between 2023 and 2024, after a federal judge ruled that the state must allow religious exemptions. Its current childhood vaccination rate is 97.5%, well above the 91% national average but lower than the 99.3% rate it had in 2019.

"Our law is still in effect, and if you don't have a medical or religious exemption, then you must be fully vaccinated to attend school or go to day care in Mississippi," said Dr. Daniel Edney, Mississippi's state health officer. "The science is clear and in Mississippi we stand on the science."

Edney said he hasn't faced any political pressure to reverse course. Unlike in Louisiana, where Republican Gov. Jeff Landry tapped Abrahama former three-term Republican congressman who co-chaired his transition committeeas surgeon general, Edney was selected by the 11-member Mississippi State Board of Health. The governor chooses the members of that panel, but they serve staggered four-year terms.

"I have zero pressure from the governor or legislative leadership regarding our approach to vaccines," Edney told Stateline. "We're not focused on politics. We don't blow in the wind based on what administration is in power."

2025 States Newsroom. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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University of Manitoba-led research has found that individuals who experience workplace injuries face a greater relative decline in mental health outcomes compared with those injured outside the workplace. Findings suggest workplace-related factors and the compensation process may contribute to this trend, though further research is needed.

Workplace injuries pose a significant public health concern, affecting millions of workers globally each year. Previous research has linked these injuries to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term disability. Mental health challengesincluding depression, anxiety and substance-use disordersare also common among injured workers.

In a study titled "Workplace Injury and Mental Health Outcomes," published in JAMA Network Open, researchers conducted a retrospective cohort study using population-based administrative data from Manitoba, Canada.

Researchers examined 7,556 individuals with workplace injuries requiring surgery, matched 1:5 with 28,901 individuals from the general population based on age, sex, geographical region, and surgical procedure code. Individuals with burns, traumatic brain injuries, repetitive strain injuries, and chronic conditions were excluded due to the complexity of recovery timepoints.

Before injury, those with workplace injuries had lower rates of mental disorders than their non-workplace injury counterparts, including anxiety (adjusted rate ratio [ARR], 0.82; 95% CI, 0.770.87), depression (ARR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.720.84), and substance abuse (ARR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.550.72).

After injury, the adjusted rate ratio for anxiety was 1.00 (95% CI, 0.951.06), and for any mental disorder it was 0.96 (95% CI, 0.921.01). Meanwhile, lower rates of depression (ARR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.820.95) and substance abuse (ARR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.730.94) persisted. Essentially, the rates for anxiety and mental disorder matched the non-workplace group after injury, but because they started out lower, the relative change was larger in the workplace-injury group.

Study design limitations could not directly assess potential causal factors, but several workplace-related factors were considered. The psychological effects of returning to the site of injury, financial stress from lost income, challenges in navigating workers' compensation claims and delayed return to workplace social groups could play a role.

Findings suggest the need for post-injury mental health support to mitigate these effects. Future research could also explore the underlying mechanisms driving these disparities, variations across occupational sectors, and strategies to improve post-injury mental health care and recovery outcomes for injured workers.

More information: Anthony Wightman et al, Workplace Injury and Mental Health Outcomes, JAMA Network Open (2025). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.59678 Journal information: JAMA Network Open

 2025 Science X Network
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Five years ago, on a late Monday evening in March, Gov. Brian Kemp and his top health aides hastily called a news conference at the Capitol to make an announcement that would touch every person in Georgia.

The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention had just confirmed Georgia's first cases of the new and mysterious diseaseCOVID-19.

That first case in Georgia was found on March 2, 2020, in two Fulton County residents who had just returned from a region in Italy where infections were surging.

Today, that announcement was the initial blip that ended in more than 2 million confirmed cases and more than 38,000 deaths across the state.

While the disease continuesthe CDC says 164 Georgians died of COVID-related causes in the most recent three-month periodit's not the menacing, invisible threat that existed when shutdowns, quarantines, protests, mask mandates and pandemic panic ruled for months on end.

But the CDC is again in the hot seat, and in an even more serious way for the agency itself.

Some experts who've spent their careers in public health are concerned that trust in the agency has eroded, and it is one of several government institutions being targeted by the new Trump administration. All of that, experts fear, could make the next health crisis far worse.

In the last month, hundreds of CDC employees have been abruptly fired or quit as President Donald Trump takes aim at federal spending and what he calls waste.

The CDC's data and communication are under skeptical review. Staff have been told not to communicate with outside partners such as the World Health Organization without high-level permission, hamstringing their work. Meetings to decide on next year's flu vaccine have been canceled altogether. Morale has tanked.

All this is happening as bird flu begins to move from cows and poultry to humans. An outbreak of measles has just killed an unvaccinated child in Texas.

"I'm saddened and concerned," said Dr. Anne Schuchat, a retired CDC official who served as principal deputy director in Trump's first term. "The thing about the government, before even considering the CDC, is it's for everybody."

While companies, universities and faith-based groups can do a lot, she said, "the gaps between what those institutions are doing are very important."

"Having a national strategy, having the coordination of all the states, can be really lifesaving for fast-moving threats like the pandemic," Schuchat said.

The seemingly random cuts and lack of information about what's happening to workers inside the agency are causing concern and confusion at a crucial time, said John Besser, a former deputy chief at the CDC who is an expert in foodborne and waterborne diseases.

"Those of us who have worked there are pretty sure that it's cutting in some important places," Besser said. "But we have no way of knowing.

"If you've been watching the measles reports that have been coming in, the experts that TV stations and news media have been pulling in haven't been from the CDC, even though the most knowledgeable people in the world on measles are at CDC."

Politicization and distrust

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDC became a lightning rod for politicized divisions over masking, vaccines, distancing, shutdowns, remote learning and science. And it made mistakes.

Those lab results transmitted to Kemp's aides five years ago were the starting gun that kick-started the local public health contact tracers and public warning.

But the system didn't work perfectly.

Georgia's state lab should have been doing that test on its own. But it couldn't, because the CDC had taken up time developing its own test, separate from the one widely in use internationally. And when the CDC's test kits arrived at public health departments across the country, they were flawed.

There were other lags and stumbles, such as the CDC initially not recommending blanket use of face masks.

However, day in and day out, the CDC staff fought the war of the pandemic. They researched the virus, devised tactics and tools to outmaneuver it, and brought those to states and communities. They pulled together resources and flagged dangers.

While the virus killed more than 1 million Americans and isolation took a lasting toll, vaccines and countermeasures also saved millions of lives. That's partly because of the work done by CDC employees in offices, labs and the field.

Dr. Hugo Scornik, a pediatrician in Conyers and leader of the state chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said he is dismayed at the level of distrust within the CDC.

Scornik said he hears about the distrust on the news, and every once in a while, increasingly so, a patient will refuse vaccinations that could save their child's life.

"Of course, I wish everything was perfect," Scornik said. "I wish the CDC test was out rapidly. I do think it made a big difference, that we didn't have a lot of testing initially. (But) I'm also very happy about the way some things went," including the development of the vaccine.

Dr. Michael Mina has fierce criticisms of the CDC, starting from his early years doing research there.

Mina, a former associate professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, is so passionate about the need to move faster and follow the science regardless of political blowback that he left Harvard to join a private biotech company to push verifiable at-home testing and treatment for COVID-19.

If huge numbers of people were frequently tested, he said, that could provide protection when people aren't vaccinated.

Mina believes CDC's culture is too academic and not good at the social science of communicating with regular people. He sees the disruption right now and hopes it can be leveraged toward reform.

However, he calls the administration's approach "devastating" to the agency's ability to execute.

"If you want to change the priorities of the CDC, I am 100% behind that, like  I do believe that we need to be focused more on chronic care," he said.

But, indiscriminate slashing of the agency "is completely crushing morale," he said. "And that might sound froofy. But the fact is, if your government employees don't have morale, then why the heck are they going to work hard for the American people?"

Pleasing the public won't be easy. The criticisms of the CDC come from both sides: those who think the agency should step back, and those who think it should be more active.

Some public health critics who thought CDC moved too slowly on COVID-19 make a similar case now, with avian flu. They say the CDC and other federal agencies should have been testing more farm animals much sooner, before the bird flu virus gets the chance to mutate into something that can spread easily between people.

That criticism runs the risk of letting people forget what the agency accomplishes, said Scornik.

Scornik thinks some of the loss of trust in the CDC is beyond the agency's control and is happening to branches of government and institutions across the board. He says it takes time for people to become comfortable with a new vaccine.

"And in my experience, it takes a couple of years," he said. "But during COVID, we didn't have a couple of years."

No one knows whether another pandemic is imminent, but others will come eventually, say experts like Besser. And while some experts are saying now is a terrible time to throw the CDC's workforce into chaosin the face of bird flu, measles and other outbreaksthat misses the point. A robust CDC workforce is always crucial to national safety, he said.

"It's like looking for meteors that might strike Earth," said Besser. "You really can't stop looking for them."

2025 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Armenian oppositionist Mane Tandilyan staged perhaps the most absurd action of the week. Tandilyan went on a hunger strike in order to convince Ruben Vardanyan to stop starving.





Tandilyan heads the Country for Life party, a pro-Vardanyan party in Armenia. At one point, Ruben Vardanyan began financing this party to have a platform for participating in elections in Armenia, but he never managed to make it from Karabakh.





Now, Tandilyan, according to her, "has started a hunger strike and asks to tell Vardanyan that he must eat."





I wonder where the limit of Armenian idiocy lies. What's next? Will Tandilyan appear on a panel in a week so that Yerevan's prostitutes can take a vacation? Or maybe he will go to Baku to go to jail instead of his boss?
Cals Refineries Ltd, a penny stock, is again in the limelight with a special court under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) directing the Mumbai anti-corruption bureau (ACB) to register a first information report (FIR) against top officials of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) . The complainant alleged that officials from SEBI and BSE failed to comply with essential regulatory norms, including disclosure requirements and due diligence procedures and allowed Cals Refineries to list in 1994. Both SEBI and BSE decided to challenge the court order in this matter.

In a release, the market regulator says, "Even though these officials were not holding their respective positions at the relevant point of time, the court allowed the application without issuing any notice or granting any opportunity to SEBI to place the facts on record. The applicant is known to be a frivolous and habitual litigant, with previous applications being dismissed by the Court, with imposition of costs in some cases."

"SEBI would be initiating appropriate legal steps to challenge this order and remains committed to ensuring due regulatory compliance in all matters," it added.

In a statement, BSE says the court has allowed the application without issuing any notice or granting any opportunity to the Exchange to place the facts on record. "The named company, Cals Refineries, was listed at BSE in 1994. The officials named in the application were not in their respective positions at the time of listing and were not connected with the company at all. The application is frivolous and vexatious in nature. BSE is initiating necessary and appropriate legal steps in this regard."

Coming back to Cals Refineries which, over the years, has been found to have indulged in massive stock manipulation and global depository receipts (GDRs) scam. Not to forget the scrip's links with Ketan Parekh (KP), the prime accused in the securities scam of 2000-2001. He was banned by SEBI for 14 years. In January 2025, SEBI discovered that Mr Parekh covertly orchestrated a Rs65 crore front-running operation

On 5 June 2009, SEBI banned 26 entities allegedly 'connected' with KP which had traded in Cals Refineries, Confidence Petroleum India, Bang Overseas, Shree Precoated Steels and Temptation Foods. In doing so, the regulator officially declared what was well known to the market, as Moneylife repeatedly pointed out that KP has been active in the market and in manipulating the prices of small and medium scrips, despite the 14-year ban imposed on him and his associates in 2003. ( Read: Re-discovery of Ketan Parekh?

As reported by Moneylife in July 2010, Cals Refineries was attracting millions of trades, but there was no scrutiny. "Internet message boards and forums around this company are very active (a true understatement) and range from outright attempts to lure more investors into this share to half-hearted attempts to console shareholders who have bought at higher prices, possibly by trapped shareholders themselves. Most hopes are centred around the promoter company coming out with some fantastic announcement that is going to save all the trapped investors and make the speculators rich." ( Read: Massive trading in penny stock Cals Refineries

In September 2011, SEBI barred seven companies, including Asahi Infrastructure & Projects, K Sera Sera and Cals Refineries, from issuing any fresh shares or altering their capital structure in a matter relating to manipulation of GDR issues.

During 2009-10, SEBI received alerts regarding large-scale off-market transactions in its IMSS system regarding a few scrips like IKF Technologies, Avon Corporation, Asahi Infrastructure and K Sera Sera.

The companies had issued the GDRs, a financial instrument used by private markets to raise capital denominated in either dollars or euros, between 2007 and 2009.

"A preliminary examination revealed that foreign institutional investors (FIIs) like India Focus Cardinal Fund and Mavi Investment Fund, were converting the GDRs held by them into normal shares (known as cancelling GDRs) to sell in Indian markets. It was also observed that most cancellations were happening within a short period from the issue of the GDRs by the company," it said. ( Read: SEBI bars 7 companies from issuing fresh shares

In December 2014, SEBI barred eight entities from the markets for 10 years in the Cals Refineries GDRs issue. SEBI, in its final order, also asked Gagan Rastogi and Asiatexx Enterprises Ltd to repay unlawful gains of US$92mn (million) along with an interest of 6%pa (per annum)

Those barred by SEBI from accessing markets include: Devanathan Sundararajan (chief financial officer of Spice Energy, the promoter of Cals Refineries), Sarvesh Goorha, Ravi Chilikuri (chief executive officer-CEO of Spice Energy), Sanjay Rai Malhotra, Honor Finance Ltd, Asia Texx Enterprises Ltd, Gagan Rastogi (promoter of Spice Energy) and Deep Rastogi.
Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has imposed a penalty of Rs4 lakh on CB Management Services Pvt Ltd. This penalty follows an inspection conducted from 3rd March to 30 March 2022. The violations identified during the inspection include non-compliance with SEBI circulars, insufficient due diligence in processing folio records and improper maintenance of document destruction records.

In an order, Amar Navlani, adjudicating officer (AO) of SEBI, says, "I note that the provisions relating to securities laws, including regulation and circulars issued by the regulator, are mandated with the objective of the orderly functioning of the securities market and its constituents having regard to the protection of the interest of the investors, which CB Management Services failed to comply with."

One of the main violations was the alteration of the draft agreement with Exide Industries Ltd which lacked a clause requiring the transfer agent to ensure the accuracy of reports, as mandated by SEBI regulations. Despite CB Management Services' defence that the agreement had been signed long ago and was due for renewal, the market regulator stated that the clause was essential for compliance with the SEBI circular's objectives. The regulator also rejected the company's claim that Regulation 9A(1)(b) didn't apply due to a 2006 amendment.

Further investigation revealed that CB Management Services failed to maintain system logs of changes to folio records, violating SEBI Circular No. SEBI/HO/MIRSD/DOP1/CIR/P/2018/73 dated 20 April 2018. This circular requires RTAs to track user access and changes to folio records, including sensitive details such as signatures and bank account information. Although CB Management Services later implemented a system to track such changes, SEBI emphasised that the violations occurred during the inspection period.

SEBI's inspection also found that CB Management Services failed to conduct enhanced due diligence on folios with missing or incomplete information, such as missing PAN numbers or bank account details. SEBI observed that the company software lacked system-based alerts for these cases and no enhanced due diligence was conducted during the inspection period. The company's subsequent implementation of a pop-up system did not address the earlier violations.

Another key violation was the failure to maintain a physical register for document destruction. SEBI found that CB Management Services did not include crucial details such as the name of the authority authorising the destruction, the date of authorisation or the signatures of those present during the destruction process. SEBI rejected the RTA claim that the circular didn't mandate a physical register, ruling that the lack of required information violated multiple SEBI regulations.
Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) have become a popular investment avenue for both retail and institutional investors in India. Companies go public to raise capital, offering investors the opportunity to purchase shares at an early stage before they get listed on stock exchanges. However, getting an IPO allotment is not always guaranteed, as demand often exceeds the number of shares available.

Understanding the IPO allotment process is crucial for investors looking to participate in a public offering. Factors such as IPO eligibility, subscription status, and different categories of investors play a key role in determining who gets allotted shares. This article breaks down the IPO allotment process in detail and provides insights on how investors can improve their chances of getting an allotment.

What is the IPO allotment process?

The IPO allotment process is the method through which a companys shares are distributed among investors who apply for an IPO. When an investor applies for an IPO, they are essentially bidding for a certain number of shares at a specified price. Once the IPO subscription period ends, the company and its underwriters decide how to allocate shares based on demand.

The allotment process varies depending on investor categories, including retail investors, qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), and non-institutional investors (NIIs). If an IPO is oversubscribed, shares are allotted through a lottery system in the retail category, while institutional investors receive allotment based on a proportionate basis.

Factors affecting IPO allotment

IPO eligibility criteria

IPO eligibility refers to the criteria investors must meet to participate in an IPO. Retail investors, high-net-worth individuals (HNIs), and institutional investors must comply with regulatory guidelines set by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). A valid Demat account, PAN card, and sufficient funds in the bank account are required to apply for an IPO.

Subscription demand

If an IPO receives high demand and is oversubscribed, the allotment process follows specific rules. Retail investors may receive fewer shares than they applied for, or their application may be rejected if demand significantly exceeds supply. Understanding subscription demand helps investors assess the likelihood of getting shares.

Reservation for different investor categories

IPOs allocate shares to different categories of investors in predetermined proportions. Retail investors typically get up to 35% of the total issue size, while QIBs and NIIs receive larger allocations. Some IPOs also have reserved quotas for employees and existing shareholders.

Issue price and lot size

The company determines the issue price based on investor demand during the IPO book-building process. Investors must apply for shares in specific lot sizes, which are fixed by the company. If the application amount does not match the specified lot size, it may be rejected.

Refunds for unsuccessful applicants

If investors do not receive an allotment due to oversubscription, their application money is refunded. Refunds are processed through the ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount) system, which ensures that funds remain in the investors bank account until allotment is confirmed.

Step-by-step IPO allotment process

1. Submitting an IPO application

Investors apply for an IPO through their broker, bank, or online platforms like UPI-based applications. They select the number of shares and bid price within the specified range. The ASBA mechanism ensures that the application amount remains blocked until the allotment process is completed.

2. IPO subscription period closes

Once the IPO subscription period ends, the registrar compiles all applications and categorises them based on investor types. Subscription data is made available, showing how much demand the IPO has received.

3. Basis of allotment is determined

The IPO registrar, in coordination with stock exchanges and underwriters, determines the allotment structure. If the IPO is oversubscribed, retail investors may receive shares through a lottery system. Institutional investors receive allotment based on their bid price and demand.

4. Allotment results are published

Investors can check the IPO allotment status on the registrars website by entering their PAN or application number. The results indicate whether they have received full, partial, or no allotment of shares.

5. Shares are credited to Demat accounts

Successful applicants receive shares directly in their Demat accounts before the listing date. Investors who do not receive allotment get their blocked funds unblocked or refunded automatically.

6. Listing on stock exchanges

After allotment, the companys shares are listed on stock exchanges, and investors can start trading them. Share prices may fluctuate depending on market demand, opening at a premium or discount to the issue price.

How to improve IPO allotment chances?

Apply at the cut-off price

Retail investors should select the cut-off price while applying for an IPO. This increases the chances of getting shares as it indicates willingness to accept the final price decided by the company.

Use multiple Demat accounts

Applying through multiple Demat accounts linked to different family members can increase the probability of allotment. However, duplicate applications from the same PAN will be rejected.

Choose the right IPOs

Investors should research IPO fundamentals, subscription demand, and financial performance before applying. Well-rated IPOs with strong company backgrounds are more likely to generate good returns.

Avoid large applications in retail category

Retail investors should apply for the minimum lot size rather than large applications. In oversubscribed IPOs, the lottery system favours those applying for fewer lots.

Check for reserved quotas

Some IPOs have reserved quotas for employees and shareholders of the company. Investors who qualify under these categories may have higher chances of getting an allotment.

Conclusion

The IPO allotment process is a crucial step that determines how shares are distributed among investors. While applying for an IPO does not guarantee allotment, understanding IPO eligibility and following strategic steps can improve the chances of receiving shares. As more companies go public, investors should stay informed about IPO trends and apply for quality offerings with strong fundamentals.

For those looking to invest in IPOs, thorough research, timely applications, and strategic bidding can enhance the likelihood of getting an allotment. As the Indian stock market continues to grow, IPOs remain an exciting opportunity for investors seeking wealth creation and portfolio diversification.
Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has attributed the increasing wildfires in Kenyas national parks to human activities and prolonged dry conditions.

During a visit to Nairobi National Park on Saturday, March 1, to assess the aftermath of a recent wildfire, Miano revealed that some fires were deliberately started by farmers clearing land, honey harvesters, and arsonists.

She also pointed out that cultural beliefs linking fire to rainfall have contributed to intentional ignitions, while careless smoking and improper disposal of cigarette butts have worsened the problem.

These activities, coupled with prolonged dry conditions and high temperatures, have created an environment highly susceptible to wildfires, Miano stated.

In recent weeks, multiple national parks and protected areas have been affected by wildfires. On February 28, Nairobi National Park recorded two separate blazesone near Wilson Airport and another in the Athi Basin Dam area. Other affected ecosystems include the Aberdare Ecosystem, Embaringo, Wanjohi, Gatare, Ruma National Park, South Island National Park, Mt. Elgon National Park, and Tsavo West National Park.

Miano assured the public that the government has mobilized all available resources to contain the fires. She emphasized the importance of collaboration in wildfire response efforts, acknowledging the support of county governments, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and international partners.

She also commended local communities for their role in reporting fires and assisting in containment efforts.

Kenyas wildlife and natural ecosystems are invaluable resources that must be protected for future generations. The government remains fully committed to ensuring their preservation through proactive measures and collective responsibility, Miano remarked.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwah has urged religious leaders to focus on their spiritual responsibilities and steer clear of political affairs.

Speaking during the burial of the late Senator William Cheptumo in Baringo on March 1, 2025, Ichungwah expressed concern over the increasing involvement of some clergy members in political discourse. He cautioned religious leaders against neglecting their primary role of providing spiritual guidance.

We have seen recently that some have abandoned their work of seeking Gods righteousness by guiding us on spiritual matters and have entered into matters concerning our rights, Ichungwah stated.

The Kikuyu MP specifically criticized religious institutions that have raised concerns over unpaid debts to faith-based hospitals under the newly introduced Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). He questioned why similar objections were not raised when funds were allegedly misappropriated under the previous National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF).

Those debts were from NHIF, but earlier when funds were being stolen from NHIF, we didnt hear about our rights or debts being demanded. But now that theyve been inherited by the Social Health Insurance Fund, were hearing a lot of noise about it, Ichungwah remarked.

While acknowledging the significant role religious institutions play in healthcare, Ichungwah insisted that governance and policymaking should be left to elected leaders.

I request that all of us in the church return to the work of seeking Gods righteousness by directing all Kenyans to Gods service, but lets leave the other matters to those who have been called to that work, he added.

Archbishop Muheria Blasts Governments Health Failures

His remarks come in response to recent criticism from Catholic Archbishop Anthony Muheria, who accused the government of prioritizing public relations over actual service delivery.

There has to be less rhetoric. We have to stop advertising and act. The government seems to be preoccupied with showcasing projects and plans, but governance is not about promotionsit is about execution. That is what we need to see, Muheria stated.

On February 21, 2025, the clergy also condemned the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA), describing it as a failed initiative that has worsened the crisis in Kenyas healthcare system. He accused the government of ignoring SHAs shortcomings and failing to listen to the struggles of ordinary Kenyans.

We are still operating within an extremely constrained healthcare system. The reimbursements that were supposed to transition seamlessly from the now-defunct NHIF to SHA are simply not functioning. Hospitals are not receiving these payments on time, he revealed.

He painted a bleak picture of faith-based hospitals facing severe financial strain due to the governments failure to clear outstanding debts. Muheria disclosed that Nyeri Catholic Hospital is owed Ksh 250 million, while Catholic hospitals nationwide are burdened with unpaid bills amounting to Ksh 2.6 billion.

We cry out, we appeal, yet we receive nothing but vague, non-committal responses. Sometimes we are told we complain too much or exaggerate. But in any serious institution, a debt of Ksh 250 million is cripplingit halts operations. And yet, despite this, we have continued to provide healthcare services, he stated.

Muheria stressed that speeches and promises alone would not fix Kenyas struggling healthcare system. He urged the government to acknowledge SHAs failures and commit to real solutions.

We need to see a functional system, not just hear lofty statements. Reimbursements and payments must be made. It is disheartening that instead of addressing these pressing issues, we continue to bury our heads in the sand, he concluded.
The National Treasury has dismissed media reports alleging irregular withdrawals of Ksh 1.3 trillion from the Exchequer over seven months, assuring the public that no money has been lost or misappropriated.

In a statement on Sunday, National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo refuted the claims, emphasizing that all transactions have followed due process. He explained that the government is in the process of automating the Exchequer system to enhance efficiency and oversight.

However, some transactionssuch as debt payments, county allocations, the Judiciary Fund, and the Equalisation Fundstill require separate approval procedures and have not yet been fully integrated into the digital system.

Kiptoo highlighted that on July 1, 2024, the National Treasury, in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and the Controller of Budget (CoB), launched a major reform initiative to digitize the Exchequer process. The goal is to improve accountability, reduce processing time, and strengthen financial oversight.

However, certain transactionsincluding debt payments, transfers to Counties, the Judiciary Fund, and the Equalisation Fundwere not included in the first phase of automation due to their distinct approval processes. The integration of these transactions into the automated system is currently underway, with full automation expected by the end of the 2024/25 financial year, said Kiptoo.

He reassured Kenyans that all withdrawalswhether processed manually or electronicallyundergo rigorous legal and financial scrutiny.

Every transaction undergoes due diligence and approval by the Controller of Budget, ensuring full compliance with public finance regulations. At no point has public money been lost or misappropriated through this process, he stated.

Kiptoo further emphasized the Treasurys commitment to transparency and accountability. He noted that the ministry is ready to provide a detailed response once it receives the official report from the Controller of Budget.

Once the Treasury receives the official report from the Controller of Budget, a comprehensive response will be provided to address any further concerns, he added.

As part of ongoing financial reforms, all National Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have successfully transitioned to the automated Exchequer system. This shift ensures that Exchequer requests and approvals by the CoB are processed digitally, boosting efficiency and accountability.

Reaffirming the governments dedication to prudent financial management, Kiptoo assured the public that the Treasury remains committed to protecting public funds.

The National Treasury remains committed to transparency, prudent financial management, and safeguarding public resources in line with its mandate, he stated.
President William Ruto stepped in to address the recent standoff between Nairobi County and Kenya Power, which saw the city government dump garbage outside Stima Plaza in retaliation for a power cut at City Hall over an alleged unpaid bill.

Speaking at Jesus Winner Ministry in Roysambu, Ruto expressed his concern over how the county and Kenya Power handled their disagreement. Like many Kenyans, he found the public feud unnecessary and disruptive.

The President revealed that he acted immediately upon seeing the pile of garbage outside Stima Plaza. He called both Kenya Powers leadership and Governor Johnson Sakaja, instructing them to resolve the issue.

The other day, they made a mistake, and I called this governor and the other ones. I told them, listen, this thing must stop! Ruto stated.

He noted that Sakaja swiftly followed his directive, ordering the garbage removed and ensuring the area was cleaned.

Ruto went on to commend the governor for taking responsibility and apologizing. He praised Sakaja for demonstrating the courage that many leaders lack when faced with challenges.

I appreciate the governor because he apologized. It takes a courageous, strong leader to say I am sorry. Governor, congratulations for apologizing. We must now pick up from there and move forward together as a city, Ruto said.

The President emphasized that Nairobi must be a symbol of progress and development, urging collaboration between the county government and key stakeholders. He vowed to work closely with city leadership to improve Nairobi, stressing the importance of keeping the capital clean and well-managed.
China's PLA aerobatic team to perform in Thailand for 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties

Xinhua) 08:20, March 03, 2025

TIANJIN, March 2 (Xinhua) -- The Bayi Aerobatic Team of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force departed for Thailand on Sunday to participate in the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of China-Thailand diplomatic relations.

The team's overseas mission, featuring an airshow of seven J-10 aircraft, highlights its return to Thailand after a decade and signifies the profound friendship between the air forces of both countries.

With mid-air refueling support from the YU-20, China's domestically developed large aerial tanker, the performance aircraft will fly non-stop to Bangkok, covering a distance of over 3,600 kilometers, said Li Bin, leader of the aerobatic team.

"To deliver a flawless performance, we have conducted on-site assessments of the Thai airfield, tailored our flight plan to the environment and carried out targeted training," members of the team noted.

This mission is the 12th overseas flight demonstration by the aerobatic team. Established over 60 years ago, the team has performed more than 700 times for over 700 delegations across more than 170 countries and regions.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Zhong Wenxing)
By Akbar Novruz



Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration, Hikmet Hajiyev, held a meeting with Gwi-Yop Son, Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia at the United Nations Office for Development Coordination.

Gwi-Yop Son shared details of the meeting on her "X" social media account.
Visit SIUs Forced Air Compost Facility Thursday for tours, award presentation

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill.  Southern Illinois University Carbondales Forced Air Compost Facility will receive the We Compost Award from the Illinois Food Scrap and Composting Coalition during a special event on Thursday, March 6, featuring tours of the facility and a brief presentation.

The event, set for 2-3 p.m., at the University Farms facility at 3689 W. Pleasant Hill Road in Carbondale is free and open to the public. Organizers ask that if possible people planning to attend sign up online to help facilitate planning.

University Farms and the Jackson County Health Department submitted the application, which resulted in the facility being recognized for its outstanding accomplishments and for the facility and its staff, volunteers and operations being brought into the We Compost Recognition Program Green Level Partner community.

SIUs Forced Air Compost Facility opened in 2014 as an initiative to increase sustainable practices across campus. Funding came from the student-supported Green Fund, supplemented by an Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity grant.

Multiple campus entities work together to collect and convert tons of dining hall food waste into rich organic compost each year via the forced air or aerated static pile composting process. The finished product is then used to add organic matter, nutrients and diverse microbes back to campus farm vegetable and grain fields. Thursdays presentation and tour with the Illinois Stewardship Alliance will be happening in conjunction with Soil Health Week in Illinois.

Leading the Forced Air Compost Facility operation are the School of Agriculture Sciences, Facilities and Energy Management, the Office of Sustainability and University Housing.
PRNewswire Gurugram (Haryana) [India], March 3: VVDN Technologies, a global provider of Software, Product Engineering and Electronics Manufacturing services and Solution, has announced a collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. to introduce its next-generation Wi-Fi 7 Access Point Reference Design. Powered by the Qualcomm Dragonwing NPro A7 Platform, this AI-driven reference design is built for customizable deployments. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in wireless connectivity. It aims to enhance user experiences with superior performance and intelligence while providing a cost-effective solution for customers seeking the best AI and Wi-Fi experience at an affordable price. The reference design includes a carrier-grade tri-band gateway and a carrier-grade dual-band extender. These solutions are optimized to intelligently manage network traffic, minimize latency, and elevate user experiences across multiple devices. The reference design is the culmination of collaboration between VVDN and Qualcomm Technologies and is crucial for India's rapidly evolving digital infrastructure, offering unmatched speed, intelligence, and reliability. It represents a significant leap forward in wireless networking, setting new benchmarks for AI-driven performance, enterprise-grade scalability, and cost-effective deployment. Ready for mass manufacturing by March 2025, the AI-powered Wi-Fi 7 Access Points will be on display at MWC Barcelona 2025. Visit VVDN Technologies at Hall 2 Booth 2C78 at MWC Barcelona for the launch of this Access Point. VVDN's AI-driven Wi-Fi 7 Access Points, powered by the Dragonwing NPro A7 Platform, are designed for showcasing the advanced capabilities of the platform. They integrate Qualcomm Technologies' state-of-the-art technologies, including the platform's Qualcomm Networking AI Engine designed for Wi-Fi connectivity and networking optimization. These access points are designed to enhance network efficiency, adapt dynamically to varying usage patterns, and ensure seamless connectivity in diverse environments. This intelligent management capability not only boosts performance but also supports scalability, catering to the evolving demands of smart homes, enterprises, and public spaces. Puneet Agarwal, CEO, VVDN Technologies: "At VVDN Technologies, we are proud to collaborate with Qualcomm Technologies to pioneer the next generation of wireless connectivity solutions. The new innovative AI based Wi-Fi 7 Access Point not only sets new benchmarks in performance but also maintains cost-effectiveness comparable to Wi-Fi 6, ensuring wider accessibility without compromising on quality." Savi Soin, SVP & President, Qualcomm India said, "Qualcomm Technologies is proud to collaborate with VVDN Technologies to introduce a line of access points, powered by our Dragonwing Networking platforms. These AI-powered Wi-Fi 7 Access Point Reference Designs are designed to enhance network efficiency while ensuring affordability for businesses, OEMs, and service providers." Qualcomm branded products are products of Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and/or its subsidiaries. Qualcomm and Qualcomm Dragonwing are trademarks or registered trademarks of Qualcomm Incorporated. About VVDN: Founded in 2007, VVDN is a technology innovation company focusing primarily on Software Services, Product Engineering and Manufacturing Services. VVDN's India HQ is located at Gurgaon, India, and its North America HQ is located in Fremont, CA, USA. VVDN has a presence across the world with offices in US, Canada, Europe, Vietnam, South Korea, and Japan. With 11 advanced R&D Centres, VVDN is fully equipped to design, develop & test the complete hardware, mechanical & software required for a complete product or solution. VVDN's 7 Manufacturing facilities are located at Manesar, Gurgaon, and Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, India, which includes in-house best-in-class SMT Factory, Mold & Tooling Factory, Injection Molding, Die Casting, Powder Coating, Sheet Metal, Product Assembly Factory, and Product Certifications labs. Company offers a comprehensive suite of services from Hardware to Mechanical, Embedded Software to Cloud & Apps, Testing & Validation to Automation as well as Mass Manufacturing to its global customers. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1531036/3360584/VVDN_Technologies_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
BusinessWire India Pune (Maharashtra) [India], March 3: Bauli, the renowned Italian bakery, is undergoing a transformative brand revamp to solidify its position as a global leader in the bakery segment. With a rich heritage spanning over 100 years, Bauli is set to elevate its brand identity by highlighting its most treasured ingredient--the century-old sourdough starter, Bauli Dough. Honoring Tradition While Embracing Innovation Founded over a century ago as a small artisan bakery in Verona, the Bauli Group has grown into an internationally recognized name in the bakery industry. With an unwavering commitment to quality and tradition, Bauli has successfully combined artisanal craftsmanship with innovation, making it a household name across the globe. Bauli first entered the Indian market in 2009, introducing its authentic, high-quality bakery specialties to Indian consumers. The success of Bauli Moonfils, Italy's No.1 croissant and a beloved favorite in India, has been a testament to the brand's dedication to excellence. The Heart of the Revamp: The Secret Ingredient - Bauli Dough At the core of Bauli's products is its signature sourdough starter, known as Bauli Dough. This naturally fermented dough, nurtured with the same passion for over a century, ensures that every Bauli product delivers an authentic, rich, and unique taste. By emphasizing this artisanal secret, Bauli is reinforcing its heritage while appealing to modern, global consumers who seek quality and authenticity. Key Objectives of the Brand Revamp: * Strengthen Brand Positioning: Reaffirm Bauli's leadership in the bakery segment and elevate its standing as an example of excellence in the croissant category. * Enhanced Recipe: With Bauli Dough as the star ingredient, the new and improved croissants will be irresistibly soft, delicious, and enriched with a unique flavor. * Drive Consumer Excitement: The revamped packaging and enhanced ingredient storytelling aim to create buzz and engagement among both loyal and new consumers. A Fresh Look, Same Timeless Flavor The brand refresh includes modernized packaging that reflects Bauli's premium heritage while catering to contemporary consumers. This evolution ensures that Bauli remains at the forefront of the bakery market, bringing a perfect blend of tradition and modernity to its consumers. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by BusinessWire India. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], March 3: CARE Hospitals proudly welcomes Dr. Devanand Degulmadi, a renowned Senior Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon, to its team. With his extensive knowledge acquired through advanced training in South Korea, San Francisco, Italy & 16+ years of expertise in Onco Spine Surgery, Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery, Complex Spine Surgery, Spine Deformity Correction, and Spine Trauma Surgery, Dr. Devanand's addition strengthens CARE's commitment to cutting-edge spine care.

At CARE Banjara, he will spearhead the development of a world-class Center of Excellence for Spine Surgery, integrating advanced surgical techniques, robotic-assisted spine procedures, and a multidisciplinary approach. This center aims to be a premier destination for complex spine disorders and medical tourism.

Simultaneously, at CARE Malakpet, Dr. Devanand will establish a dedicated Spine Center, ensuring advanced spine care is accessible to patients from Hyderabad's peripheral areas and nearby districts.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Dr. Devanand, Senior Orthopaedic Spine Surgeon stated, "Spine surgery demands precision and innovation. At CARE Hospitals, we aim to set new standards in spine treatment--elevating CARE Banjara to national and global prominence while making high-quality care more accessible at CARE Malakpet."

Welcoming Dr. Devanand, Biju Nair, Zonal COO, CARE Hospitals, said, "Dr. Devanand's expertise will be instrumental in positioning CARE Banjara as a leading Center of Excellence and in establishing CARE Malakpet as a specialized spine hub. His leadership strengthens our commitment to delivering world-class spine care."

Under Dr. Devanand's guidance, CARE Hospitals is set to redefine spine surgery, focusing on minimally invasive, complex, and robotic-assisted procedures, ensuring superior patient outcomes and medical excellence.

For consultations with Dr. Devanand Degulmadi, appointments can be scheduled at CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills & Malakpet.

About CARE Hospitals:

CARE Hospitals, one of India's leading healthcare providers, is committed to delivering world-class medical services across a range of specialties. With a strong focus on patient centered care, innovation, and community health initiatives, CARE Hospitals continues to play a pivotal role in advancing healthcare standards in India. CARE Hospitals Group operates 17 healthcare facilities serving 7 cities across 6 states in India. The network has its presence in Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Vishakhapatnam, Raipur, Nagpur, Indore & Aurangabad. A regional leader in South and Central India and counted among the top 5 pan-Indian hospital chains, CARE Hospitals delivers comprehensive care in over 30 clinical specialties, with over 3000+ beds.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Flanders' Minister-President Matthias Diependaele on Monday called for stronger collaboration between India and Flanders in tackling water and waste management challenges, emphasizing that while the scale may be different, both regions face similar threats from climate change. Speaking at the Belgium-India: Water & Waste Management Solutions for a Climate-Resilient World seminar in New Delhi, Diependaele highlighted that Flanders, like India, is grappling with water-related issues and is adopting new technologies to mitigate risks. "Water is a vital resource for agriculture, industry, and households. Challenges like water scarcity, water stress, torrential rains, and rising sea levels require a holistic and integrated approach. Like India, Flanders must also protect itself from the effects of climate change. By working together, we can develop innovative and resilient solutions," he said. Flanders, the northern region of Belgium, accounts of nearly 45 per cent of Belgium territory and is recognized for its strong commitment to environmental sustainability. Diependaele praised India's efforts to improve water access but acknowledged that challenges remain, especially in rural areas. "India has made significant strides, but access to clean water remains a challenge in remote regions. Flemish companies, such as Incofin, are working on financing solutions for sustainable drinking water supply in rural communities," he noted. Diependaele also underscored Flanders' expertise in waste management and how its experience could help India's Swachh Bharat Mission. "In Flanders today, we recycle up to 80 per cent of our waste. This was achieved through a combination of policies and, more importantly, citizen responsibility. Imagine a world where all waste is turned into a new resource. Flemish companies are already working with Indian partners towards this goal," he said. Companies like Trevi, Delta EM, and Thinkip are bringing their advanced waste treatment solutions to India, while Indian firms like Re Sustainability and Junktion Green are leading local efforts. Apart from drought and water scarcity, rising sea levels pose a significant risk to both India and Flanders. "Through our experience with floods, we have become firm believers in nature-based solutions. This commitment is reflected in our Coastal Vision project, which will protect our coastlines beyond 2050. Our companies, such as Jan De Nul, are already working on coastal protection and biodiversity projects that could have a direct impact in India," Diependaele said. With India ramping up its focus on climate resilience and sustainable urban planning, the Flemish Minister-President expressed confidence that collaborations between Indian and Flemish companies would yield tangible results. "The partnerships we are discussing today are not just theoretical. They are real, actionable solutions that can make a difference," he concluded. The seminar, organized by Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT), is part of Belgium's high-level economic mission to India, led by Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid. The delegation, comprising 326 officials and industry leaders, is in India to explore economic cooperation in key sectors, including climate solutions, renewable energy, and infrastructure. The mission will cover New Delhi and Mumbai, with over 30 agreements expected to be finalized. Belgium's economic mission, one of the largest in recent years, aims to deepen India-Belgium ties across sectors, including climate adaptation, clean technology, and industrial decarbonization. With discussions underway in Delhi and Mumbai, both sides are optimistic about forging long-term partnerships to address global sustainability challenges. (ANI)
NewsVoir Gurugram (Haryana) [India], March 3: CurveAi, a global leader in Gen AI products and AI agent development, today announced the launch of AssessCurve.ai, India's first Gen AI-enabled, multi-dimensional educational platform, designed to address the evolving needs of students, teachers, schools, and parents. More than 10,000 students have already been enrolled in different parts of India on the platform. AssessCurve.ai promises to transform the education landscape by fostering a collaborative and data-driven learning environment with AI playing the role of catalyst. In Dec 2024, CurveAi launched its vertical Ai agent for online shopping "DealSpy" as well. AssessCurve.ai distinguishes itself by offering a comprehensive solution that empowers all stakeholders in the education ecosystem: * For Schools: Provides tools to expand reach, monitor talent in real-time, and optimize costs through AI-driven insights. It also helps improve JEE and NEET success rates. * For Teachers: Automates administrative tasks like lesson planning, evaluation, and course preparation, freeing up time for personalized student interaction, as advocated by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2024. * For Students: Offers personalized learning paths, conceptual validation, and predictive analysis to optimize exam preparation strategies for JEE, NEET, and other competitive exams. * For Parents: Provides seamless visibility into their children's learning progress, growth, and potential, fostering transparency and engagement in their educational journey. "AssessCurve.ai was born from a deep understanding of the challenges faced by students, parents, teachers and schools today," says Amiit Deep Kumarr, Founder & CEO and Chief Designer of AssessCurve.ai. "Existing EdTech models often create friction within the education system. We have designed AssessCurve.ai to be an enabler, working in harmony with schools and empowering educators while providing students with the tools they need to succeed. We are also aligning our product with the National Education Policy 2024, particularly with our K5 Art and Craft program." Kschitiz Mathur, Co-Founder and CDO, adds, "Our platform leverages the power of Gen AI to create a truly personalized and adaptive learning experience. We are not just delivering content; we are building a system that understands each student's unique needs and helps them reach their full potential." Ramsha Khan, Co-Founder - Finance & Growth also said on the occasion "AssessCurve.ai is poised to revolutionize education in India by empowering schools, teachers, students, and parents with the tools they need to thrive in the 21st century." AssessCurve.ai addresses critical gaps in the current education system. Unlike heavily funded companies that attempted to create parallel ecosystems, AssessCurve.ai is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing school structures, fostering collaboration rather than competition. Key benefits of AssessCurve.ai: * Holistic Approach: Addresses the needs of schools, teachers, students, and parents. * AI-Powered Personalization: Delivers customized learning experiences and predictive analysis. * Seamless Integration: Works in harmony with existing school systems and curriculum. * Cost-Effective Scalability: Enables schools to expand their reach and improve outcomes without incurring excessive costs. * Alignment with NEP 2024: Incorporates the core elements of the National Education Policy, ensuring relevance and compliance. CurveAi raised capital from a leading Swiss family office fund in last year August 2024, led by Mr Israr Ali Khan, he further added "We were always confident on the execution and management skills of the founding team as they have decades of experience in building diversified products, we will support CurveAi in all future fund raise rounds and are committed to provide them capital for an exciting future, that we all see as a team." CurveAi is a global company specializing in Gen AI products and AI agent development. With a focus on innovation and user-centric design, CurveAi owns Ai agents products; DealSpy.ai and AssessCurve.ai, it is also working on Ai agent for Mental Wellness. AssessCurve.ai is India's first Gen AI-enabled, multi-dimensional educational platform, developed by CurveAi. Designed to empower students, teachers, schools, and parents, AssessCurve.ai offers a comprehensive suite of tools and resources to foster a collaborative, data-driven, and personalized learning environment. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
NewsVoir Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 3: Amar Seva Sangam, a pioneering organization dedicated to the empowerment of differently-abled individuals, extended its heartfelt gratitude to the Honorable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, for his visionary announcement to integrate differently-abled persons into municipal corporations across the state. This decisive move reflects the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive society that embraces diversity and equal opportunity. A Progressive Step Toward Economic Empowerment Amar Seva Sangam hailed Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's landmark announcement on Inclusive Political Empowerment which marks a significant milestone for individuals with disabilities in Tamil Nadu. This innovative initiative makes Tamil Nadu the first state in India to politically empower people with disabilities. The Chief Minister's decision to nominate representatives with disabilities for local bodies such as panchayats, municipalities, and corporations is truly inspiring and a welcome response to a long-standing aspiration of the disability community. This transformative step promises to significantly enhance the equality of opportunity, foster active participation, and drive the empowerment and inclusion of persons with disabilities across the State. The representatives of persons with disabilities in Tamil Nadu welcomed the Chief Minister's recent directive aimed at fostering social inclusion through the creation of dedicated positions for differently-abled individuals within municipal corporations. This Progressive policy transcends municipal administration and serves as a beacon of hope to other sectors, encouraging them to embrace inclusivity. It is a powerful reminder that when a government's policy uplifts all its citizens, it unlocks a wealth of potential that benefits everyone. With a single focussed commitment, together, they can build a brighter and more inclusive future for all in Tamil Nadu. By harnessing their diverse abilities, they can drive significant socio-economic progress, fostering a society where everyone has an opportunity to thrive. As representatives in local bodies, the persons with disabilities in Tamil Nadu can make a significant positive impact by bringing the full potential of individuals with disabilities to society. Inclusive policies for all can promote universal designs for accessibility and foster a win-win situation for persons with disabilities and society at large. Addressing the Need with Hard Data According to the 2011 Census, Tamil Nadu is home to approximately 1,179,963 differently-abled individuals accounting for nearly 1.6% of the state's population. By 2022, the estimated population of persons with disabilities in Tamil Nadu, based on the growth rate since the 2011 Census, is projected to be around 1,327,533 individuals. These figures highlight the importance of policies aimed at accommodating and uplifting this critical segment of society. With such a vast pool of talent, the government's decision to recognize the potential of these individuals will ensure their contributions to societal development. Local bodies and corporations, central to local governance, will particularly benefit from the diverse skills and perspectives of differently-abled employees, ultimately enhancing their public service delivery, leadership endorsements and future Collaborations. Expressing his deep appreciation in response to the initiative, S. Ramakrishnan, President of Amar Seva Sangam, said, "This initiative by the Honorable Chief Minister is a monumental step towards building an inclusive society. Political empowerment is a critical factor in empowering differently-abled individuals, and this decision opens new avenues for their active participation in community development." S. Sankara Raman, Secretary of Amar Seva Sangam, said, "We are elated by the state's unwavering commitment to inclusivity. This move not only offers opportunities in policymaking and governance but also makes us part of responsible citizens for the development and growth of society. This path-breaking move of our honourable Chief Minister also dismantles societal stereotypes that have long hindered the differently-abled community. We are eager to support the government in ensuring that the implementation is effective and that every differently abled gets the necessary opportunity." www.amarseva.org Established in 1981 and based in Ayikudi, Tamil Nadu, Amar Seva Sangam has been at the forefront of disability management and inclusive development for over four decades. The organization provides a wide range of services, including early intervention, integrated education, vocational training, and community-based rehabilitation. Its mission is to empower differently-abled individuals by facilitating their integration into mainstream society and creating opportunities for self-reliance and growth (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], March 3: Ubuy, a leading global e-commerce platform, proudly presented the Arya College Fest, Innovastra, reaffirming its commitment to fostering innovation and providing opportunities in the tech world for students. Innovastra, a 24-hour Hackathon, was held from February 28 to March 1, 2025. The event, attended by students, industry experts, and media representatives, was inaugurated by Mr. Dinesh Kumar, Director of Ubuy and Dr. Himanshu Arora, Principal at Arya College of Engineering, who emphasized the role of technology in shaping the future of e-commerce and global trade. Arya College president Dr Arvind Agarwal, Vice President Dr Pooja Agarwal and Rajasthan Govt Joint Director of DOIT&C (Department of Information Technology & Communication) Dr Ranveer Singh also joined the event and boosted student morale.

Ubuy played a pivotal role in enhancing student engagement and industry exposure. Ubuy conducted a giveaway-driven quiz, where students actively participated, testing their knowledge in technology and e-commerce while winning exclusive prizes.

Dinesh Kumar, Director of Ubuy, shared his thoughts on the company's vision for fostering young talent:"At Ubuy, we believe in empowering the next generation of tech innovators. Our support to the Arya College TechFest reflects our commitment to bridging the gap between students and real-world opportunities in e-commerce and technology. By engaging with bright young minds, we aim to inspire innovation and provide a glimpse into the future of global digital commerce."

Ubuy hosted a dedicated mentorship and judging session, allowing students to interact with industry professionals. The event also featured interactive booths, QR code-based engagement activities, and exclusive insights from Ubuy's leadership team.

With this successful collaboration, Ubuy continues to drive innovation and education in the digital landscape, strengthening its position as a global leader in e-commerce.

About Ubuy

Ubuy is a cross-border e-commerce platform offering access to over 300 million international products worldwide. With a strong presence across multiple regions, Ubuy is dedicated to enhancing global shopping experiences and driving technological advancements in the retail sector.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by ATK. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
As per the ministry, MOIL registered Sales of 14.32 lakh tonnes, higher by 3 per cent over CPLY during April-February, 2025. Meanwhile, it achieved exploratory core drilling of 94,894 meters, which is higher by 20 per cent over CPLY.

Reacting to the achievement, Ajit Kumar Saxena, CMD, appreciated team MOIL for their sustained efforts, which have led to this outstanding achievement.

He expressed confidence that the company will embark on a higher growth trajectory in the coming year, the ministry said in a release.

According to the ministry's release in December, during first eight months of FY'25, the company has recorded production of 11.80 lakh tonnes, which is higher by 8.46 per cent over corresponding period last year (CPLY).

On the sales front also, the company has achieved its best-ever November sales of 1.33 lakh tonnes, higher by 32 per cent over CPLY. During the first eight months of FY25, the company has registered sales of 9.90 lakh tonnes, which is higher by 4.76 per cent over CPLY.

The company has surpassed a turnover of Rs 1,000 crore within 8 months of FY'25, achieving this milestone over a month earlier than last year, the ministry stated in December.

MOIL was originally set up in the year 1896 as Central Province Prospecting Syndicate which was later renamed as Central Provinces Manganese Ore Company Limited (CPMO), a British Company incorporated in the UK.

MOIL fulfils about 46 per cent of the total requirement of dioxide ore in India. At present, the annual production is around 1.3 million tonne which is expected to grow in the coming years. (ANI)
NewsVoir Hapur (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 3: Bulandshahr based Ananda Dairy, one of India's leading dairy manufacturers, has officially secured a place in the prestigious Guinness World Records by producing the world's largest slab of Paneer (Cottage Cheese), weighing an extraordinary 205.4 kilograms. This historic achievement was accomplished at the company's Khairpur Village manufacturing facility in Khairabad, Pilkhuwa, Uttar Pradesh, on Thursday, February 27, 2025. Crafted with Care The giant block was then carefully weighed and certified by GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS officials. Crafted using 100% pure milk, the giant paneer block met the highest hygiene standards, ensuring it satisfied strict benchmarks for taste, texture, and freshness. From breaking world records to serving the community, Ananda Dairy proves that purity is not just a promise but a way of life. This landmark achievement marks another milestone in Ananda's ongoing journey to set new benchmarks in the dairy industry. "At Ananda, we have always been passionate about pushing the boundaries of dairy excellence. This record is a testament not just to our capabilities but to our dedication to purity, and we are thrilled to share this moment of pride with the world," said Dr. RadheyShyam Dixit, Chairman & Founder of Ananda Dairy. A Gesture of Kindness However, Ananda's commitment to making a difference extends far beyond this record-breaking achievement. In an effort to give back, the entire 205.4kg slab of paneer was distributed to NGOs and community kitchens across the country, ensuring that this historic moment also contributed to those in need. Ananda is a renowned name in the Indian dairy industry, known for its commitment to producing high-quality dairy products with an emphasis on purity, freshness and innovation. With a legacy of excellence and a passion for setting new industry benchmarks, Ananda continues to be a trusted brand for consumers across the country. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
Following the row in the Oval Office, several leading Republicans backed how the meeting had been handled by Trump and criticised Zelensky, according to BBC.

Senator Lindsey Graham - once a staunch supporter of Ukraine - told reporters that Zelensky "either needs to resign and send somebody over that we can do business with, or he needs to change".

Asked about these calls to step down in the interest of US-Ukraine relations, Zelensky said that to resign was one thing, but preventing him from running again would require Nato membership.

Ukraine joining the transatlantic military alliance has been a demand of Kyiv since the war began, and forms a key part of the country's victory plan - though the Trump administration has said this was unlikely.

"I am exchangeable for Nato," Zelensky told journalists before he was due to leave the UK.

"I have said that I am exchanging for Nato membership, which means I have fulfilled my mission. Nato means I have fulfilled my mission."

He added it was "not very democratic" for people from other nations to be deciding who led Ukraine, but said Graham could become Ukrainian, and then "his voice will have weight" in deciding who its leader was.
VMPL Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], March 3: The 18th Skill Carnival, organized by Viswam Edutech, concluded successfully in Hyderabad, marking yet another milestone in nurturing young talent across India. The national-level competition brought together 300 of the brightest students, selected from an initial pool of 5 lakh participants across five states, competing in Abacus, Vedic Math, and Spelling Bee categories. The winners of the event will be sponsored by Viswam Edutech to participate in international Abacus competitions, providing them with a global platform to showcase their skills. The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, with Dr. Jaya Prakash Narayana, IAS, former public administrator and founder of the Lok Satta Party, as the Chief Guest. Tulasi Vishnu Prasad Kolasani, Vice President of the National Independent Schools Alliance (NISA) and President of APPUSMA, also attended as an Honorary Guest. Their presence and insights added immense value to the event, inspiring students and educators alike. Launch of NEP 2020 Program: Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship One of the key highlights of the event was the launch of Viswam Edutech's latest initiative under the NEP 2020 framework - the Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship Program. Dr. Jaya Prakash Narayana, while inaugurating the program, emphasized its significance in equipping K-12 students with essential money management and entrepreneurial skills. He highlighted the importance of financial independence and problem-solving abilities, which will enable students to navigate an evolving economic landscape. Tulasi Vishnu Prasad Kolasani also stressed the need for widespread implementation of the program across Indian schools. He underscored how fostering an entrepreneurial mindset at an early age prepares students for long-term financial stability and career success. The program is designed with a holistic approach, including teacher training, comprehensive learning materials, and practical support to ensure seamless adoption. Viswam Edutech: Revolutionizing Skill-Based Education Viswam Edutech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. is a leading Skill Curriculum company headquartered in Hyderabad. With 18 years of experience, the organization has expanded its reach across nine states in India--Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Gujarat--and operates internationally in the USA and Canada. As an ISO-certified company, Viswam Edutech partners with over 9,000 private schools and 20,000 government schools across India, making a significant impact on the K-12 education sector. Expanding Reach and Future Goals Speaking at the event, Hari Charan, CEO of Viswam Edutech, reaffirmed the company's mission to become the preferred partner for schools in implementing skill-based curricula. He emphasized Viswam's commitment to establishing a presence in every district nationwide. P.P.R. Prasad, Founder and Director, highlighted how Viswam's programs are designed to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for students in the 21st century. Through the NEP 2020 skill programs, Viswam Edutech is actively transforming the learning landscape by working closely with schools. Satish Babu, Managing Director, emphasized that execution is the company's core strength, which has been pivotal in building Viswam's reputation as a trusted education partner. With 17 franchises already established, the company is now targeting the launch of 100 franchise networks by the end of the year, aiming to impact over 100,000 schools nationwide. Why Choose Viswam Edutech? * Viswam Edutech's franchise model offers a unique opportunity for education entrepreneurs with:* K-12 programs aligned with NEP 2020* Low investment with high returns* A proven business model with a 95% renewal ratio* A trusted brand with strong school associations Viswam Edutech's Programs at a Glance: Viswam Edutech has successfully impacted over 2 million students across 10,000+ schools through its skill development programs, including: * Abacus: A scientifically proven brain development program.* Vedic Math/Speed Math: A structured approach to improving problem-solving speed and accuracy.* Experiential English Lab: Enhancing LSRW (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing) skills in students.* IIT NEET Foundation: Providing a strong academic base for early learners.* Math Lab: Experiential learning tools for mathematical concepts.* Code Champ: A coding program designed to develop future-ready tech skills.* Financial Literacy & Entrepreneurship Program: Transforming students' mindset from employees to entrepreneurs. Looking Ahead Viswam Edutech is committed to continuous innovation, with in-house R&D dedicated to developing new products in alignment with NEP 2020. The company remains focused on shaping the future of education by expanding its skill-based programs and strengthening its nationwide presence. For more information, visit www.vedutech.com or contact us at +91 99630 11816. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN Pune (Maharashtra) [India], March 3: AT&S AG, the Austria based EURO 1.5 billion global IC substrate and printed circuit board leader, has announced setting up an Information Technology Shared Service Center (IT SSC) at Pune in Maharashtra in India for its trans-continental operations. With this new venture, AT&S opens opportunities for scores of qualified information technology professionals from India in IT Security, SAP, and Program Developers at its Pune center catering to different areas of responsibilities across the IT spectrum. The new global IT Shared Service Center (IT SSC) of AT&S AG in Pune will now cater to group's operations in Austria, China, Malaysia, and India. The Group plans to hire over 100 technical resources at their Pune IT SSC by 2025-26 to support its 6 manufacturing plants and 9 sales offices globally. Mr. Peter Griehsnig, Chief Technology Officer, AT&S AG, speaking on the occasion said, "AT&S stands for progress, innovation and the willingness to invest in the brightest minds and state-of-the-art technology all over the world. The launch of our IT Shared Service Center in Pune marks a significant milestone in our global digital transformation journey. India's rich talent pool and innovative spirit make it the ideal location to drive efficiency, agility, and technological excellence across our operations. This center will not only enhance our IT capabilities but also foster collaboration and innovation at scale." The Global IT Shared Service Center at Pune is an integral part of the new Target Operating Model of AT&S Group, and has been established to provide high quality IT services by leveraging the skills and talent available in India. With this initiative, AT&S joins the league of other big transnational corporations who have set up their global competence and shared service centers in India, to leverage high quality skills and talent for delivering reliable IT services and driving innovation. The new venture comes up after the visit of India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Austria in month of July just last year where AT&S's top management met PM Modi at the Federal Chancellery in Vienna. The global IT Shared Service Center further expands the 25-year old footprint of AT&S group in India, where it already runs a high end PCB manufacturing facility at Nanjangud near Mysuru and is currently the largest exporter of hi-tech PCBs from India. Through this new venture, AT&S AG has redefined the approach to business efficiency in microelectronics and PCB manufacturing towards achieving significant competitive advantage in the industry. The new team at Pune IT SSC provides information technology services to support AT&S' global operations in manufacturing of high end microelectronics and printed circuit boards. The SSC operates across four Centers Of Excellence (CoE) namely, Security & Infrastructure, IT Applications, Operations Technology and Digital & Data. The center is headed by Mr. A.S. Raghavendra who passionately leads a team of information technology experts and aims to further augment the operations. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], March 3: The much-anticipated launch of Volfsbane, a high-end streetwear brand by fashion designer Ishika Jain, took place at the iconic Famous Studio in Mumbai. The grand event witnessed a spectacular showcase of urban luxury fashion, redefining contemporary streetwear with an upscale twist. The highlight of the evening was the presence of Bollywood superstar Suniel Shetty, who graced the occasion as a special guest. Known for his deep-rooted association with fashion and fitness, Shetty lauded Volfsbane's unique approach to modern urban styling. "Volfsbane brings a fresh perspective to high-end streetwear, seamlessly blending comfort with style. It's exciting to see such innovation in the Indian fashion industry," he remarked. The launch event was nothing short of spectacular with innovative graffiti artists creating live masterpieces to uniquely designed photo booth. The unveiling of the collection took place in the most stylish and dramatic fashion with a flash mob performance and a curtain raiser of the collection. Volfsbane's debut collection--a fusion of cutting-edge design, premium fabrics, and bold aesthetics. Ishika Jain, the creative force behind Volfsbane, expressed her excitement about the brand's debut. "Volfsbane is more than just a fashion label; it's a movement that embraces individuality and self-expression. We are thrilled to introduce our collection to the world and look forward to seeing it resonate with streetwear enthusiasts and luxury fashion lovers alike." The event saw attendance from prominent names in the film and Political industry like Minister of Transport - Maharashtra, Shri Pratap Sarnaik, actor Bhushan Patil and director Joe Rajan amongst others. The immersive brand experience at Famous Studio left an indelible mark, setting the tone for Volfsbane's journey in the fashion industry. With the launch setting new benchmarks, Volfsbane is now available for purchase through its official website - Volfsbane.com. The brand is poised to make a significant impact on the luxury streetwear segment, catering to those who appreciate style with substance. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL New Delhi [India], March 3: A well-known name in the field of cost accountancy, 'The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India' (ICMAI), has organised a two-day symposium. The prime objective of this Symposium is to discuss and assess ICMAI's crucial role and contributions in the nation's progress and development. Titled "Adaptation in a Changing Landscape - My Viksit Bharat 2047," this symposium is being held from 28 February to 1st March 2025, at the ICAR Convention Center, NSC Complex, Todapur, Pusa Road, New Delhi. This event is being organised by the Northern India Regional Council of The Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India. On the first day of the symposium chief guest Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp. The chairperson of the parliament's committee of welfare of SCs and STs, Faggan Singh Kulaste, and member of Lok Sabha Bansuri Swaraj also attended the symposium as Guests of Honor. Santosh Pant (Chairman and Convener, ICMAI Northern India Regional Council), M.K. Anand, Rajendra Singh Bhati (Central Council Members), S.N. Mittal (Vice Chairman, NIRC), S.K. Bhatt (Co-Convener), Rakesh Yadav (Secretary), Jeevan Chandra (Treasurer), Pawan Kumar (Chief Advisor, Cost, Government of India), Manish Kandpal, Honey Singh, and Madhuri Kashyap were also present on the stage A large number of young professionals, industrialists, bureaucrats, and ICMAI students also attended the symposium. During the first day of the symposium, all distinguished guests, praised and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a Developed India 2047. Santosh Pant, Chairman and Convener of ICMAI's Northern India Regional Council, welcomed the chief guest Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and other dignitaries. *NIRC Chairman Santosh Pant presented his views by stating, "ICMAI is fully committed to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a developed India. Our 65 years of expertise in cost accountancy will significantly contribute to our country's progress and we will continue to play an active role to achieve this goal* Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla addressed the symposium and said, "Institutions like ICMAI plays an important role in the country's progress as they help in enhancing the investment opportunities in the Indian economy. To attract economic investments, our financial laws require stability along with necessary reforms in response to changing global scenarios. Because of our financial reforms, India's growing economic strength is evident worldwide" Speaking at the event, Faggan Singh Kulaste told the importance of Icmai in economic growth of India. Lok Sabha member Bansuri Swaraj also addressed the symposium, stating, "Under the able leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is making remarkable progress on the global platform, strengthening its economic power. Despite global challenges, India remains one of the world's top five economies, which is a significant achievement. Bansuri Swaraj referred to CMAs as 'silent policy influencers' and said that the cost estimation for both the Ram Lalla temple and the Chandrayaan mission was conducted by the CMA Committee. During the symposium Former Ambassador Deepak Vohra expressed his views and said, "India is transforming rapidly and it is evident from the global perspective also. Padma Shri awardee and motivational speaker Santosh Yadav also graced this event . Chandrashekhar Tiwari, Amit Rautela, Economist Professor Manoj Kumar Agarwal, Poonam Jaiswani, M.C. Bansal along with Vineet Nahta also expressed their views during the first day of this symposium. On the second day of the symposium, the Chairman of Northern India Regional Council of ICMAI, Santosh Pant, began the program with his welcome address. On stage with him were chairman of Prasar Bharti Navneet Kumar Sehgal, and Dr Shailendra Kumar Former Joint Secretary were present. While addressing the symposium, Santosh Pant, Chairman of the Northern India Regional Council of ICMAI, said, "To talk about a developed India, we need to step out of the colonial mindset. We need to leave behind Western culture. He told that Cost and Management Accountancy is a very important profession Dr. Shailendra Kumar, former Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, said, "Growth should be the goal of life, and therefore our thinking and vision should be of a prosperous India. We need to carry our history and civilization. Chairman of Prasar Bharti Navneet Kumar Sehgal also stated, " media plays a very important role in the development of our nation." (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
VMPL Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) [India], March 3: Birla Institute of Management Technology (BIMTECH), one of India's leading business schools, successfully concluded VIHAAN'25, its annual management, cultural, and literary festival. Over two days, the BIMTECH campus was abuzz with enthusiasm as students from across the country competed in 23 diverse competitions, showcasing talent, strategic thinking, and creativity. Participants from prestigious institutions such as IIT Delhi, IIT Roorkee, TAPMI, FORE School of Management, IIM Kashipur, IIM Jammu, and Delhi University made it a truly national-level fest. At BIMTECH campus, VIHAAN'25 commenced with a grand inauguration, featuring the Lighting of the Lamp led by Dr. Mohammad Athar, Partner & Leader at PwC. This year's theme "Give Wings to Your Aspirations" inspired participants to push their limits, think innovatively, and take bold decisions. From strategic business challenges to artistic and cultural showcases, the event provided a holistic platform for students to explore, engage, and excel. BIMTECH's clubs and conduits curated a diverse range of competitions at VIHAAN'25, challenging participants in problem-solving, managerial decision-making, creativity, and sustainability awareness. The flagship event, Best Manager, tested leadership across 10 rigorous rounds, while Crime Enigma 3.0 engaged detectives in a thrilling murder mystery. Sustainability took center stage with Sustainopoly and Ecolution, integrating CSR and a Model UN session. Business acumen shone in StratVyuh 4.0, CosmoMogul, Deal Breaker 3.0, and Ecoinfluence, covering strategy, international trade, stock trading, and economics. Marketing enthusiasts battled in Dhindora, Hype Station, and Ad-Angles, testing branding, advertising, and creative storytelling. Finance and operations were highlighted in Fix Your Finance, The Assurance Arena, and Operatopolis 3.0, focusing on BFSI, financial literacy, and real-world business challenges. On this special occasion, Dr. Prabina Rajib, Director of BIMTECH, shared, "VIHAAN is more than just a management fest; it is a dynamic learning experience that pushes students beyond textbooks and conventional academics. With talent converging from across institutions, it fosters confidence, strategic thinking, and creative problem-solving. By competing, collaborating, and showcasing their skills on such a grand platform, students not only overcome hesitation but also gain invaluable insights into their strengths and areas for growth, preparing them for the challenges of the real world." Global Quest blended diplomacy with a treasure hunt, while Cognicioun'25 pushed participants' general knowledge limits. Artistic and cultural expression thrived in Bailamos, Goonj, War of Bands, and Legends of Hidden Tale, showcasing dance, music, and storytelling. Synergy Circuit emphasized team-building through interactive games, Data Vishleshan tested analytical prowess, and Dual Perspective encouraged visual storytelling through photography. With innovation, strategy, and skill at their core, these events celebrated intellect, creativity, and collaboration. Dr. Manosi Chaudhuri, Convenor of Vihaan, shared that Vihaan was powered by Unstop and the event's success was amplified by the generous support of Title sponsor Pilot Pen India, Associate Partner MCX, and other sponsors like Nevada Waters, Burgrill, Chai Garam, Belgian Waffle, Chandrakala, Rice Box, Union Bank of India, Axis Bank, Bank of Baroda, Skilled Sapiens, Dennison, StockEdge, SuperDogs, KUHOO, M S Finline, HSSC India, Nura, Safexpress and media partner StartupNews, ensuring a seamless experience. With intense strategy battles, artistic showcases, and unforgettable musical moments, VIHAAN'25 embodied the spirit of competition, creativity, and camaraderie. As the curtains close on this spectacular edition, anticipation for VIHAAN'26 is already building, promising an even bigger and more thrilling celebration next year. Inspired by its founders Late Basant Kumar Birla and Sarala Birla, BIMTECH pioneered innovative programs like PGDM, PGDM-International Business (IB), PGDM-Retail Management (RM), and PGDM-Insurance Business Management (IBM), nurturing individuals into global leaders. Also, BIMTECH is now AACSB accredited, joining the Ivy League of Top Globally Recognized B-Schools. Fostering a symbiotic relationship, the institute excels in management education, supported by its globally placed robust network of over 8000 alumni. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PNN Balasore (Odisha) [India], March 3: In a groundbreaking move that underscores Odisha's rising prominence in the global trade arena, Highland Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with retail giant Lulu Group, paving the way for the state's premium seafood, agricultural, and processed food products to reach international markets. The landmark agreement, inked at Gulfood 2025 in Dubai, positions Highland Group as a key player in the global agribusiness and seafood trade. By leveraging Lulu Group's extensive retail network of 257 hypermarkets serving over 650,000 shoppers daily, Highland Group is set to showcase Odisha's rich natural produce to consumers across the GCC, Middle East, and beyond. More than just a business collaboration, this historic MoU marks a turning point in Odisha's economic narrative. Speaking about the partnership, M.A. Yusuff Ali, Chairman & Managing Director of Lulu Group, said, "Odisha has immense potential in the food and seafood sector, and we see great opportunities in sourcing premium products from the region. Our collaboration with Highland Group will enable us to bring the best of Odisha to our global consumers while creating new avenues for economic growth in the state." Highland Group has long been at the forefront of Odisha's aquaculture and agricultural expansion, with its subsidiaries already making significant strides in seafood exports. With shrimp farms spanning 60 acres (and plans to expand to 200 acres), along with state-of-the-art processing facilities, the company is committed to scaling Odisha's export potential. "This partnership isn't just about trade--it's about transforming lives," said Rabindra Kumar Jena, Chairman of Highland Group,"By connecting our farmers and seafood producers with global markets, we are creating new opportunities, driving economic growth, and ensuring that Odisha's name is recognized for its world-class produce." At the heart of Highland Group's mission is the empowerment of local farmers and producers. By establishing a direct link to global retail giants like Lulu Group, the company is ensuring that Odisha's agricultural and seafood sectors not only thrive domestically but also become significant contributors to the international supply chain. "This is a proud moment for Odisha," said Pratik Jena, Managing Director, Highland Group,"Our vision has always been to put Odisha on the global map, and with this partnership, we are not just exporting products--we are exporting the essence of Odisha's rich heritage, hard work, and unmatched quality." The Highland Group-Lulu Group MoU is more than a commercial milestone--it's a symbol of Odisha's potential to become a global trade powerhouse. With this agreement, Highland Group has reinforced its commitment to elevating the state's economy and making it a hub for agricultural and seafood excellence. As Odisha takes center stage in international trade, Highland Group remains steadfast in its mission--to build a legacy of growth, sustainability, and global recognition for the state's unparalleled produce. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PRNewswire Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 3: With the launch of 'The Living Threads' Human Library Event, Manipal Hospitals brought a fresh, thought-provoking initiative to life on Saturday, 22 February 2025. The first of its kind, this event encouraged the community to engage in meaningful conversations around topics that matter most--healthcare, caregiving, and the challenges faced by senior citizens. Inspired by the concept of a Human Library, the event offered a unique platform for personal stories to replace traditional books, creating a space for genuine dialogue and healing. About Living Threads - Human Library Event: The Living Threads initiative was designed to foster connections and healing through shared life stories. By encouraging open discussions, Manipal Hospitals sought to amplify the power of meaningful conversations in building strong communities. This event aimed to remind us of the importance of human connection--of truly listening, empathizing, and learning from one another. The Living Threads event included 19 participants, including three remarkable 'books' whose life stories sparked inspiring dialogues among a diverse audience. The three thematic sessions focused on critical areas of societal relevance: * Cancer Care* Senior Citizen Care* The Journey of a Caregiver The Living Threads event created an intimate space for participants to choose 'books' based on shared interests or life experiences. Each 'book' shared a personal story, sparking reflection, learning, and connection. The event featured three powerful narratives centered on significant life challenges and encouraged engaging discussions. Readers selected books based on: * Personal Connection - Those who had faced similar challenges or sought guidance.* Professional & Emotional Relevance - Individuals in healthcare, caregiving, or related personal experiences.* Curiosity & Learning - Attendees eager to understand and empathize with others' experiences. Meet the Books - The Featured Stories 1. When the Crab Came Visiting - Cancer Care: The title of this book tells the story of a woman who turned adversity into strength. Ms. Veena Sateesh, a respected journalist and corporate trainer, shared her battle with breast cancer in When the Crab Came Visiting. From a career in journalism to teaching at prestigious institutions, Veena's journey is one of perseverance and resilience. Her story resonated with a beautiful reminder of how challenges can be faced with grace, rediscovering joy, and embracing life's precious moments--no matter what obstacles stand in the way. 2. RESTART - Senior Citizen Care: RESTART is Ms. Rama Narayanaswamy's story, a tribute to the power of reinvention. From coping with a personal loss--her husband's battle with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome--to transforming her grief into a force for good. As President of Atashri, a senior citizen care facility, Ms. Narayanaswamy became a pillar of support for the elderly, earning the affectionate title of the 'Nightingale of Athashri.' RESTART shone as an inspiring testament to the power of healing, finding new purpose after loss, and making a difference in the lives of others. 3. Full Circle: A Journey of Love and Care: Full Circle by Mr. Arpan Panicker is a poignant account of a son's dedication to caring for his aging parents. With both parents facing health challenges, Arpan finds himself balancing the demands of his career and personal life with the responsibilities of caregiving. Full Circle is an emotional narrative that takes the readers through the complex journey of love, sacrifice, and the bond between parent and child--one that never wavers, even when life becomes overwhelming. The Readers - Adding Depth to the Event The success of The Living Threads event was enhanced by the active participation of a group of readers with varied backgrounds, from cancer survivors to educators and entrepreneurs, who brought their own experiences to each session. * In the Cancer Care session, readers like Sandhya CP, a breast cancer survivor who now uses art as a form of healing, and Yethipathi Sarangapani, a retired professional with a strong background in mechanical and safety management, shared their journeys, adding depth and perspective to the session. Raj Kumar Bothra, a music enthusiast and writer, enriched the discussion with his experiences. * The Senior Citizen Care session saw contributions from dedicated educators and community advocates like Lipika, a former IT professional turned counselor and Rama Bhat, an educator and NGO volunteer, whose insights on elderly care and community support touched hearts. * The Senior Citizen Care session featured contributions from dedicated educators and community advocates, including Lipika, a former IT professional turned counselor, and Rama Bhat, an educator and NGO volunteer, whose insights on elderly care and community support were deeply impactful. * In the Caregiver session, readers like Ms. Khushboo, a Learning & Development professional, and Ms. Aruna Reddy, 65, with a wealth of experience from diverse fields currently working as a Care Manager and mentor at Habuild Yoga every day, supporting a start-up focused on online yoga and wellness, Ms. Hirnakshi Anand, a seasoned recruiter with experience at top companies like Thorn EMI, FedEx, and Microsoft, who has worked in the UK and USA before relocating to Bengaluru, and is currently enjoying her life with her husband and college-going son, brought valuable perspectives on the complexities and emotional toll of caregiving. The Living Threads, showcased Manipal Hospitals' commitment to fostering meaningful conversations and building stronger, more connected communities. Manipal Hospitals is proud to have hosted this transformative event and looks forward to future editions. For more information, please visit: https://www.manipalhospitals.com/ Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2631726/Rama_Veena_Arpan.jpgPhoto: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2631724/The_Living_Threads_Event.jpgPhoto: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2631725/The_Living_Threads_Event.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1941277/5194308/Manipal_Hospital_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
NewsVoir Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], March 3: With technology advancing quickly, people want more than just what meets the eye. They want the best of both worlds without compromise - sustainability, durability, and top-notch quality all rolled into one. Polycarbonate sheet are now one of the top choices for construction and design for their perfect feature mix of strength, clarity, and flexibility to meet today's needs. Leveraging such advantages, Sri Ramana Enterprises has come up as one of the premier providers of high-end LEXAN polycarbonate solutions. Their sheets, made of the perfect blend of durability, versatility, and design innovation, have made their mark across India, operating in cities such as Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Vizag. As the cornerstone of Sri Ramana Enterprises' product line, LEXAN polycarbonate sheets are well known for their superior impact resistance, optical clarity, and versatility. From building construction and architecture to automotive and aerospace sectors, LEXAN sheets have made themselves the premium standard, better than glass and acrylic materials in wide-ranging critical applications for various industries. Sri Ramana Enterprises caters to a wide range of industries, each taking advantage of the unique properties of LEXAN polycarbonate sheets. In the construction and architecture fields, these sheets are valued for their strength and flexibility, which enable the creation of curved roof structures and intricate glazing without compromising on safety and durability. Automotive industries benefit from the light nature of LEXAN, giving the vehicle parts a critical impact resistance whether it comes to headlights, taillights or roof panels. Agriculture also benefits due to the high light transmission feature and UV protection provided by sheets that protect greenhouses with perfect plant growth conditions. Besides that, these sheets are also used in the electronics and medical device industries due to their high thermal resistance and clarity, which is essential for protective coverings and sensitive equipment housings. The commitment of Sri Ramana Enterprises to quality and innovation has made it the preferred provider for polycarbonate solutions. It provides the best in the market by ensuring its LEXAN sheets keep up with international stringent, developed safety and performance standards. Its proactive approach to customer service involves thorough consultation and bespoke solutions to ensure that every client receives products perfectly tailored to meet their specific needs. This customer-centric approach, combined with continuous investment in technology and sustainability, positions Sri Ramana not just as a supplier but as a reliable and forward-thinking partner for diverse industries looking for top-tier polycarbonate solutions. LEXAN polycarbonate sheets have transformed the way industries approach material usage in design and functionality. They're lightweight but rigid, making installation easier and able to handle harsh conditions while prioritising safety. These sheets can be shaped and moulded to fit creative architectural designs without losing strength, plus they offer excellent thermal insulation--perfect for skylights, roofs, and wall panels. With over a decade of industry experience, Sri Ramana Enterprises has become a trusted name in the polycarbonate sheet market. By continuously delivering high-performance, eco-friendly recyclable products that reduce environmental impact, Sri Ramana continues to meet the changing needs of today's industries, staying ahead as a market leader. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
NewsVoir New Delhi [India], March 3: Airbnb is proud to announce the latest recipients of Airbnb Community Fund grants, including four organizations in India that are making a profound difference across various sectors. Launched in 2020, the Airbnb Community Fund is a $100 million initiative to directly support local communities and the people who live there. Each year, Airbnb donates to organizations that are supporting and strengthening communities around the world, including donations made in partnership with local hosts in many of these communities. Each year, Airbnb partners with hosts to identify important issues and many of the non-profit organizations to receive donations. Airbnb hosts are deeply connected to their communities and by involving them in this process, Airbnb aims for the Fund to drive meaningful local impact. As in previous years, hosts helped direct a majority of the donations. Amanpreet Bajaj, Country Head, Airbnb India and Southeast Asia, said, "At Airbnb, we believe in the power of community, and we are thrilled to support organizations across India that are working towards creating a lasting positive change. This year's grants are a testament to our commitment to empowering local nonprofits that are driving impactful initiatives in critical areas like waste management, education, and women's empowerment. The Airbnb Community Fund is not just about financial support; it's about amplifying the efforts of organizations that make a real difference in people's lives." Airbnb Community Fund Recipients in India This year's Community Fund grants were directed to organizations focusing on three key areas identified by the Airbnb Host Advisory Board: economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and ending abuse and exploitation. The nonprofits receiving donations in India are: * Waste Warriors to create awareness around responsible waste management in the Indian Himalayan Region. * Maher Ashram to support the shelter and care of destitute elderly women at the Sukhsandhya Home located at Maher Vatsalyadham Centre in Pune.* Pratham to provide quality education to young people, primarily women and girls, in the underserved communities across India and beyond. * Concern India Foundation to support higher and professional education for underprivileged youth across India. Etosha Chatterjee, Director, Programs for Waste Warriors, shared, "The multi-year support from Airbnb Community Fund will continue to play a key role in helping us strengthen waste management systems in the Indian Himalayas. Our focus is on empowering local communities, especially women, and creating sustainable solutions. The Fund will allow us to expand our work and drive long-term change." Keshav Aggarwal, a member of the Airbnb Host Advisory Board, shared, "The people at Maher Ashram are natural hosts, welcoming everyone with warmth and compassion. Their inclusivity inspires us to bring the Airbnb host community closer to their mission. We're excited to organize host meetups at Maher Ashram, focusing on volunteering and cultural immersion, which will help Airbnb hosts contribute meaningfully and build deeper connections with the incredible individuals at Maher Ashram." The Airbnb Community Fund in action To date, the Airbnb Community Fund has distributed more than $36 million to organizations in nearly 70 countries, with hosts providing input each year. To learn more about the Airbnb Community Fund, please visit the website. This year's Airbnb Community Fund grants were distributed from July 2024 through early 2025. Airbnb works with grantmaking partners to support due diligence and facilitate payment to many nonprofit grantees. Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home and has since grown to over 5 million hosts who have welcomed 2 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
VMPL New Delhi [India], March 3: Saint Louis University (SLU) is delighted to announce the inclusion of the Indian Standard XII (CBSE and CISCE) examinations in its Credit by Exam program. This initiative aims to offer Indian students significant opportunities to earn college credits prior to commencing their undergraduate studies at SLU. The Credit by Exam program at SLU allows undergraduate students to earn college credits through standardized examinations. It includes several recognized exams such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), College Level Examination Program (CLEP), and now, the CBSE and CISCE exams. "We are elated to expand our Credit by Exam program to incorporate the Indian Standard XII examinations. The addition underlines our commitment to recognising the diverse educational backgrounds of our students and offering them a supportive environment and resources they require to succeed. We look forward to welcoming more Indian students to our vibrant academic community,'' said Mr. Robert Reddy, Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management at Saint Louis University. The inclusion of the Indian Standard exams in the Credit by Exam program offers several benefits for Indian students as SLU acknowledges the quality of these exams, providing a seamless transition into the university's academic programs. Including these exams in the Credit by Exam program ensures that the hard work and accomplishments of Indian students are recognized and rewarded. Furthermore, by earning credits through exams, students can save on tuition expenditures and potentially graduate earlier, making their education more affordable and efficient. The initiative also opens more pathways for students from India to pursue higher education at SLU, enhancing their academic and career possibilities. By broadening access to SLU's programs, more Indian students can benefit from the university's high-quality education and conducive learning environment, ultimately contributing to their personal and professional growth. "At SLU, we recognise the hard work and excellent academic preparation of Indian high school students. This initiative is our way of helping Indian families afford SLU education, ensuring that deserving students can benefit from our world-class academic environment,'' said Mrs. Jean Marie Cox, Associate Vice President of Enrollment and Dean of Admission at Saint Louis University. Saint Louis University is internationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, innovative research, and a holistic learning environment. With a diverse and inclusive community, SLU offers a broad range of programs and resources to empower students to achieve their academic and professional pursuits. The university's emphasis on offering a well-rounded educational experience ensures that students are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of the modern world and emerge as change agents of the future. To learn more about Saint Louis University, visit slu.edu or contact admission@slu.edu. (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by VMPL. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
By Alimat Aliyeva

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the creation of a new initiative, the United States Cryptocurrency Reserve, which will include leading digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana (SOL), XRP, Ripple, and Cardano (ADA), as well as other valuable cryptocurrencies, Azernews reports.

The U.S. crypto reserve will help rejuvenate this vital industry, which has been under assault for years by the Biden administration. Thats why my Digital Assets Executive Order has directed the Presidential Working Group to move forward with the creation of a crypto-strategic reserve that will include XRP, SOL, ADA, and others, Trump emphasized in a statement. "I will ensure that the United States becomes the undisputed crypto capital of the world."

Trump further clarified in a subsequent post that Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other valuable digital currencies will also be part of the new U.S. cryptocurrency reserve.

The announcement has already had a significant impact on the market, with the prices of the listed cryptocurrencies soaring. Cardano (ADA) surged by 60%, XRP jumped by 33%, and Solana (SOL) rose by 25%. Meanwhile, Ethereum and Bitcoin also experienced increases of 13% and 10%, respectively.

This move marks a significant shift in the U.S.'s stance on digital currencies and could position the nation as a leading player in the rapidly evolving global crypto market. The announcement comes at a time when governments around the world are grappling with how to regulate and incorporate cryptocurrencies into their economies. Trump's plan to create a national crypto reserve could serve as a model for other countries exploring similar measures.

The future of the U.S. crypto reserve will undoubtedly be a key topic in global finance, as the U.S. looks to leverage its technological and financial infrastructure to harness the potential of digital currencies.
As part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the government has initiated five pilot projects for using Hydrogen in buses and trucks. Earlier, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy had issued guidelines for implementing Pilot projects in the Transport Sector under this Mission. Accordingly, the proposals were invited for different types of hydrogen-based vehicles, routes, and hydrogen refueling stations. After detailed scrutiny, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has sanctioned five pilot projects, totaling 37 vehicles (buses and trucks) and 9 hydrogen refueling stations. The vehicles that will be deployed for the trial include 15 hydrogen fuel-cell-based vehicles and 22 hydrogen internal combustion engine-based vehicles. These vehicles will run on 10 different routes across the country viz., Greater Noida - Delhi - Agra, Bhubaneshwar - Konark - Puri, Ahmedabad - Vadodara - Surat, Sahibabad - Faridabad - Delhi, Pune - Mumbai, Jamshedpur - Kalinga Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram - Kochi, Kochi - Edappally, Jamnagar - Ahmedabad, and NH-16 Visakhapatnam - Bayyavaram. The above projects were awarded to major companies such as TATA Motors Ltd, Reliance Industries Limited, NTPC, ANERT, Ashok Leyland, HPCL, BPCL, and IOCL. The total financial support for selected projects made available by the Government of India will be around Rs. 208 Crore. These pilot projects are likely to be commissioned in the next 18-24 months, paving the way to the scale-up of such technologies in India. The thrust area for providing support under the scheme is the development of commercially viable technologies for utilizing hydrogen in the transport sector as fuel in buses and trucks and supporting infrastructure like Hydrogen refueling stations. One of the mission's objectives is to support the phased pilot deployment of Green Hydrogen as fuel in buses and trucks. These pilot projects can demonstrate safe and secure operations, assess the effectiveness of hydrogen-based vehicles and refueling stations, validate technical feasibility and performance, and evaluate their economic viability, thereby leading to hydrogen-based vehicles and hydrogen refueling stations under real-world operational conditions. The Scheme Guidelines for implementing Pilot projects for using Green Hydrogen in the Transport Sector under the NGHM can be accessed here. The National Green Hydrogen Mission was launched on January 4, 2023, and will cost Rs 19,744 crores up to 2029-30. It will contribute to India's goal to become Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) through clean energy and serve as an inspiration for the global Clean Energy Transition. (ANI)
The PM Gati Shakti Experiential Centre at Bharat Mandapam is extraordinary and is an example of India's brilliance and its cutting-edge technology combined in a way that celebrates the tradition of the country, Justice Michael Wilson, former Supreme Court Judge of Hawaii, United States of America said after visiting the high-tech Centre on Monday. Professor Vesselin Popovski of Soka University, Japan, who also visited the centre, called the experience absolutely spectacular and added that it captures the beauty, diversity and creativity of the Indian government. Retired Justice Wilson expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for allowing him and his colleague Professor Vesselin Popovski to observe the cutting-edge approach to one of the international problems - transportation. He also remarked that the Experiential Centre provides hope to the world because it reflects immense dedication to the local heritage, artistry and shows at the same time that India understands sustainability. They spent about 40 minutes at the PM Gati Shakti and ODOP Experience Centre at Bharat Mandapam. "I have seen a lot (in India). But this experience truly captures the beauty, diversity, and creativity of the Indian people. It's impressive to see how India is evolving," Popovski told ANI. "We realized that India is truly a future global power," the professor from the Japanese varsity said. Michael Wilson, a retired judge of the Supreme Court of Hawaii, USA, echoed similar sentiments after visiting the experience centre at Bharat Mandapam. Judge Michael Wilson described the PM Gati Shakti and ODOP Experience Centre as "a testament to India's brilliance and cutting-edge technology, seamlessly blending with its rich traditions. This initiative not only celebrates India's heritage but also offers hope for the world." Reflecting on his home state, he said, "In Hawaii, we face environmental and transportation challenges. Observing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision here gives people hope for the future. This project demonstrates India's dedication to preserving its cultural legacy while simultaneously adopting innovative, sustainable technologies. It showcases how India is integrating global best practices, speed, and domestic innovation to create a model for the world. This approach attracts international investment and collaboration." Wilson further stated, "I am eager to bring our governor to witness this incredible transformation. It is a privilege that the Prime Minister allowed me and my colleague to experience this extraordinary, forward-thinking initiative, which addresses one of the most critical global challenges--transportation." He concluded by praising India's entrepreneurial spirit, saying, "This experience centre exemplifies how India has harnessed its vast talent pool and combined it with an efficient transportation system. It is a shining example of India's ability to lead. The dignitaries were given a tour of the PM Gati Shakti Experiential Centre in Bharat Mandapam by Ramesh Verma, Deputy Secretary, Logistics Division, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The Gati Shakti Experiential Centre is a state-of-the-art audio-visual museum for PM Gati Shakti and the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme and has been developed at the ITPO Complex in New Delhi. Using cutting-edge technologies like a 270-degree screen and holographic displays, the centre will raise awareness about various initiatives on logistic and transportation showcasing their success. PM Gati Shakti incorporates the infrastructure schemes of various Ministries and State Governments such as Bharatmala, Sagarmala, inland waterways, dry/land ports, and UDAN. This digital platform is designed to bring various Ministries, including Railways and Roadways, to ensure integrated planning and coordinated execution of infrastructure projects. The initiative aims to provide seamless and efficient connectivity for the movement of people, goods, and services across various modes of transport, thereby enhancing last-mile connectivity and reducing travel time. (ANI)
The 2025 Oscars are underway, and Ben Stiller took a moment to pay tribute to his late co-star Gene Hackman, who passed away just days ago at the age of 95. Stiller, who starred alongside Hackman in the 2001 film 'The Royal Tenenbaums,' remembered the legendary actor as a "giant" in the industry. "He was literally one of my favorite actors," Stiller said on the red carpet to People magazine, adding, "Growing up, the movies that he made - French Connection, Scarecrow, going all the way through Hoosiers, so many films... For me, he was someone I looked up to as just one of the most authentic, real, charismatic and honest actors." Stiller and Hackman collaborated on 'The Royal Tenenbaums,' a film that also starred Gwyneth Paltrow, Luke Wilson, and Owen Wilson. Stiller played the role of Chas Tenenbaum, Hackman's on-screen son. In a poignant essay he wrote to a publication, Stiller reflected on his experience working with Hackman, admitting that he "didn't ever feel comfortable" around the late film icon, according to People magazine. Stiller added that he has always admired Hackman's work and recalled telling him on set that he particularly admired his performance in 'The Poseidon Adventure.' Hackman's response, with a grin, was that the film was a "money job." Hackman's passing is still under investigation, and the manner of his death, along with his wife Betsy Arakawa and one of their dogs, is still unknown. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the film industry. Meanwhile, Conan O'Brien is hosting the 2025 Oscars ceremony, airing live at 7 pm ET on ABC and Hulu. In India, the 97th Academy Awards are streaming live on JioHotstar. (ANI)
Former Bond Girl Halle Berry took the stage on Sunday (local time) to introduce a special James Bond tribute featuring a star-studded lineup of performers.

Berry, who played a Bond Girl in 2002's 'Die Another Day,' looked stunning as she announced the musical performance.

The tribute kicked off with an orchestral version of the Bond theme song, accompanied by Margaret Qualley dancing onstage in a bright red dress.

The performance was a non-stop thrill ride, with BLACKPINK's Lisa singing 'Live and Let Die,' Doja Cat performing 'Diamonds Are Forever,' and Raye closing things out with a powerhouse version of 'Skyfall.'

The crowd was wowed by the talented performers, and the tribute was a fitting celebration of the iconic James Bond franchise.

Meanwhile, the former Bond Girl, who won an Oscar for Best Actress in 2002 for 'Monster's Ball', is a presenter at this year's ceremony, and she certainly made a statement with her outfit.

Berry wore a body-hugging mirrored Christian Siriano gown that had everyone talking.

The strapless dress featured sheer panels down her legs and draped into a short train.

The stylish star completed her look with Pomellato Jewelry and wore her hair in a sleek, flipped-out bob.

According to People magazine, fashion designer Christian Siriano said that Berry's dress was a labor of love, featuring 7,000 beads.

"My entire career I wanted to dress one person at the Oscars, and that's Halle Berry," Siriano said during the red carpet preshow, adding, "It's different for her, it's metallic, it's iridescent."

Berry is set to be one of the night's presenters, joining a star-studded lineup that includes Oprah Winfrey, Whoopi Goldberg, Robert Downey Jr., and Emma Stone.

The 2025 Oscars are being hosted by Conan O'Brien and are airing live at 7 pm ET on ABC and Hulu.

In India, the 97th Academy Awards are streaming live on JioHotstar. (ANI)
Walter Salles' directorial 'I'm Still Here' bagged the Best International Feature Film Oscar on Sunday, marking the first time that an entry from Brazil has won in the category. The film, which tells the real-life story of Eunice Paiva's decades-long search for justice after her husband's disappearance during Brazil's military dictatorship, has been gaining momentum in recent weeks. Its surprise nomination for best picture -- alongside expected nods for international feature and best actress for star Fernanda Torres -- solidified its status as a major contender, as per Variety. The film emerged victorious by defeating France's "Emilia Perez," Germany's "The Seed of the Sacred Fig," Denmark's "The Girl With the Needle" and Latvia's "Flow." "I'm so honored to receive this, and in such an extraordinary group of filmmakers," Salles said during his acceptance speech. "This goes to a woman who, after a loss suffered during an authoritarian regime, decided not to bend. And to resist. So, this prize goes to her. And it goes to the two extraordinary women who gave life to her, Fernanda Torres, and Fernanda Montenegro." Brazil has submitted films to the international feature category every year since 1960, earning five previous nominations: "Keeper of Promises" (1962), "O Quatrilho" (1995), "Four Days in September" (1997), "Central Station" (1998) and now, "I'm Still Here." Until tonight, however, the country had never secured a win in the category. (ANI)
Karnataka Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga said actress Rashmika Mandanna has disregarded Kannada and should be "taught a lesson." While speaking to the media, he said, "Rashmika Mandanna, who started her career with the Kannada movie Kirik Party in Karnataka, refused to attend the International Film Festival last year when we invited her. She said, 'I have my house in Hyderabad, I don't know where Karnataka is, and I don't have time. I can't come. One of our legislator friends visited her house 10-12 times to invite her, but she refused and even disregarded Kannada, despite growing up in the industry here. Shouldn't we teach them a lesson?" The BJP was quick to react, slamming the Congress for objecting to the actors comments and said that the MLA Ravikumar Gowda must respect the constitution at all costs. Taking to X, BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar reacted to the comment and wrote, You can never separate goon from Rahul Congressman. This pompous overblown #Karnataka MLA from constitution waving @RahulGandhi's party, wants to "teach a lesson" to an actress. I want to tell @DKShivakumar and @siddaramaiah to read up constitution - every citizen including actress hv rights and dont forget ur goon MPA has obligations to respect law and rights of citizens If he wants a "lesson" in constitution, I/we will be happy to "teach" this goon - free of charge -anytime,anyplace Call me! #KnowTheTruth #TruthAboutCorruptCong" https://x.com/RajeevRC_X/status/1896492499683643682 Recently, Rashmika's statement about being from Hyderabad at an event created controversy and sparked objections. Certain pro Kannada They started a campaign against Rashmika and said she started her cinematic journey in Kannada, and today, she's speaking such disrespectful language against Kannada. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike President T A Narayan Gowda also spoke on the same issue and warned Rashmika. (ANI)
Karnataka Congress MLA Ravikumar Gowda Ganiga, who drew a lot of flak over his controversial comments on actress Rashmika Mandanna, has doubled down on his remarks, accusing the 'Pushpa' actress of disregarding Kannadigas. He had earlier alleged that Rashmika didn't attend the film festival despite an invitation and threatened that she should be "taught a lesson". Further clarifying his remarks, Gowda said that he didn't mean "Gundagiri" or "Rowdyism". Speaking to ANI, the Congress leader said, "Being a Kannadiga, I stand by the statement I gave. I am proud to be standing with my motherland, my language and my people... We are proud of Rashmika Mandanna; she is a Kannadiga. We called her, but she said she did not have time for Kannadigas. Is this the way to treat Kannadigas?" "We told her that Kannadiga is your motherland and Karnataka is the base of your career and you should respect your motherland. Now, she is working in Bollywood, but she should not forget her roots... I am proud of Karnataka and I don't need any lessons from Rajeev Chandrasekhar... When I said we should teach her a lesson, I did not mean 'Gundagiri'... I am not calling for rowdyism...," he added. Earlier, the Congress leader had asked if Rashmika shouldn't be "taught a lesson", a remark which drew heavy criticism. "Rashmika Mandanna, who started her career with the Kannada movie Kirik Party in Karnataka, refused to attend the International Film Festival last year when we invited her. She said, 'I have my house in Hyderabad, I don't know where Karnataka is, and I don't have time. I can't come. One of our legislator friends visited her house 10-12 times to invite her, but she refused and even disregarded Kannada, despite growing up in the industry here. Shouldn't we teach them a lesson?" Gowda told ANI. The BJP was quick to react, slamming the Congress for objecting to the actor's comments and said that MLA Ravikumar Gowda must respect the constitution at all costs. Taking to X, BJP leader Rajeev Chandrasekhar reacted to the comment and wrote, You can never separate goon from Rahul Congressman. This pompous overblown #Karnataka MLA from constitution waving @RahulGandhi's party, wants to "teach a lesson" to an actress. I want to tell @DKShivakumar and @siddaramaiah to read up constitution - every citizen including actress hv rights and dont forget ur goon MPA has obligations to respect law and rights of citizens If he wants a "lesson" in constitution, I/we will be happy to "teach" this goon - free of charge -anytime,anyplace Call me! #KnowTheTruth #TruthAboutCorruptCong" https://x.com/RajeevRC_X/status/1896492499683643682 Recently, Rashmika's statement about being from Hyderabad at an event created controversy and sparked objections. Certain pro Kannada groups started a campaign against Rashmika and said she started her cinematic journey in Kannada, and today, she's speaking such disrespectful language against Kannada. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike President TA Narayan Gowda also spoke on the same issue and warned Rashmika. (ANI)
Namit Malhotra, founder of Prime Focus, CEO of DNEG, and producer of the upcoming Ranbir Kapoor starrer 'Ramayana', has made history once again as his company bagged the Visual Effects Oscar at the 2025 Academy Awards for its work on Dune: Part Two. This marks DNEG's eighth Oscar win and India's seventh Academy Award victory. While speaking to ANI, the producer not only expressed his excitement but also discussed how the company's track record of winning Oscars over the years is a "rare accomplishment" in the industry. He also thanked his team for their dedication and hard work. "I think it's a terrific outcome. It's not just the eighth Oscar; it's also the fact that we've won seven Oscars in the last ten years, which I believe is a very unique record in itself. I can't imagine anyone else, or any other company, having had the good fortune to say that. I'm incredibly thankful and appreciative of all my artists, technologists, and filmmakers who have trusted us to reach this outcome, which I am immensely proud of," said Malhotra. DNEG has been a dominant force in the visual effects industry, winning the Oscar for films like Dune: Part One (2022), Tenet (2021), First Man (2019), Blade Runner 2049 (2018), Ex Machina (2016), Interstellar (2015), and Inception (2011). When asked about the secret behind DNEG's consistent success, Namit shared that the company always prioritizes the "director's vision" and mentioned how understanding the director's ideas and emotions plays a key role in delivering "high-quality visual effects". "Now that we've had a few wins, a lot of people have asked me about our secret. Honestly, some of the most complex things are done in the simplest way, as they always say. The basic reality is that we've always been a company that prioritizes the director's vision. That's the core of how we operate," he said. "The director is the captain of the ship, and we must capture every word, every nuance of what the director thinks, feels, and imagines. Our challenge is how to take that and apply it using our technology and artistry. To me, that's the most basic yet the most powerful way to create a seamless experience. Ultimately, most visual effects that win these Oscars are awarded not because of the stunning display of technology or talent, but because they seamlessly fit into the story," Namit added. DNEG is a leading visual effects, animation, and creative technology company that has worked on some of the biggest Hollywood films. The award was accepted by DNEG VFX Supervisors Stephen James and Rhys Salcombe, along with Production VFX Supervisor Paul Lambert and Special Effects Supervisor Gerd Nefzer. (ANI)
The makers of the 'No Other Land' documentary, after winning the Best Documentary Oscar at the 2025 Academy Awards today, made a defiant speech lamenting the "ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people" and called on the world to "take serious actions to stop the injustice". As directors Yuval Abraham, Basel Adra, Hamdan Ballal, and Rachel Szor accepted the award, they spoke about the ongoing war in Gaza--which erupted after the October 7 terror attack--and lamented America's foreign policy in this long-standing conflict. Palestinian journalist and activist Basel Adra said, as quoted by Variety, "We call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people." "About two months ago, I became a father, and my hope for my daughter is that she will not have to live the same life I'm living now...No Other Land reflects the harsh reality that we have been enduring for decades and still resist," he added. 'No Other Land' follows a Palestinian family forced from their home in the West Bank by the Israeli government. The film also shows the friendship between Adra, a Palestinian journalist, and Yuval Abraham, an Israeli journalist, despite the long-standing Israel-Palestine conflict. According to CNN, the documentary tells the story of the continued demolition by Israeli authorities of Masafer Yatta, a collection of villages in the Hebron mountains of the West Bank where Basel Adra, one of the directors, lives with his family. The documentary follows the Israeli government's attempt to evict the villagers by force, having claimed the land for a military training facility and firing range in 1981. Viewers see the local playground being torn down, the killing of Adra's brother by Israeli soldiers, and other attacks by Jewish settlers while the community tries to survive. Speaking about the daily inequality they experience, Abraham drew a comparison between the differential treatment given to a citizen living in Israel and one living in Palestine. "We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law, and Basel is under military laws that destroy his life, and he cannot control them. There is a different path, a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people," Abraham said. The Israeli journalist also lamented the United States accusing them of "blocking the possibility of peace." "Why can't you see that we are intertwined, that my people can be truly safe if Basel's people are truly free and safe?" Abraham asked, according to Variety. Since its premiere at the Berlin Film Festival, 'No Other Land' has received praise from all corners of the world and has won awards at major film festivals, including Toronto, Vancouver, and New York. It also won the audience award and documentary film award at the Berlin International Film Festival in February 2024, as well as the New York Film Critics Circle award for Best Non-Fiction Film. However, despite its success, the film has struggled to find a distributor in the US, so its makers arranged for it to have a one-week run at the Lincoln Center in November in order to qualify for tonight's Oscars, as reported by Al Jazeera. (ANI)
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday asserted that her government will hold a Maha Aarti at the Yamuna River. Gupta, while attending the 'Anandam Programme' in the presence of spiritual leader and founder, Art Of Living Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, said that the people who wronged Maa Yamuna would never have peace. Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta also attended the event in the presence of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. "I remember how thousands of Art of Living volunteers started a cleanliness campaign at the Ghats of Yamuna, and thousands of trucks of garbage were removed. The people who wronged Maa Yamuna would never have peace," she said. "Under the leadership of PM Modi, I, my entire Cabinet, and all of our seven MPs have decided to clean Maa Yamuna and build a grand riverfront. We will organise a Maha Aarti there," she added. On Sunday, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, shared his insights on the miraculous return of the Somnath Shivling. With deep conviction, he said, "Anything is possible. Everything that God wills happens." Ravi Shankar revealed that the Shivling, a sacred relic from the Somnath Jyotirlinga, possesses distinct properties that identify it as an authentic artefact. "Anything is possible. Everything that God wills happens. This (Shivling) has those properties (of Somnath Jyotirlinga); that is how we knew what it is," said the spiritual leader. He announced that the sacred relic, broken into pieces by Mughal ruler Muhammad Ghazni in 1026 AD, had been recovered and would undergo a 40-day purification ritual before its consecration. The spiritual leader had claimed in an article published on February 26 (Maha Shivratri) that he had recently been given the pieces of the shivling after it was kept hidden for many years on the orders of Shankaracharya of Kanchi Peetham, where he said that after a hundred years, the pieces should be taken to a saint in Bangalore named Shankara. (ANI)
Speaking to ANI, Mishra said, "The Chief Minister had ordered on February 22 that the public should not face any inconvenience due to traffic at Khajuri Chowk. We are all working to improve the condition of Delhi's roads. I have come here to inspect the ongoing work. The government is working for the development of Delhi."

Earlier, Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra hit out at the previous Aam Aadmi Party government, alleging that the condition of roads in the national capital deteriorated under its tenure.

He stated that broken roads, potholes, and waterlogging have become a common sight across the city, and all Cabinet ministers have hit the road today.

Speaking to ANI, Mishra said, "Arvind Kejriwal's government made the condition of roads in Delhi worse. Everywhere, the roads are either broken or dusty; there are potholes and waterlogging all the Cabinet ministers have hit the road today. The officials have to fix all the roads, no doubt about that."

He further slammed AAP national Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, saying, "Arvind Kejriwal's culture of not doing the work will end now. Officials of all departments need to understand that now the work is happening under PM Modi, and it is the direct order of CM Rekha Gupta."

Minister Kapil Mishra has been given departments for law and justice, labour, employment, art and culture, language, and Tourism in the Delhi government. (ANI)
Brigadier MS Dhillon, Commander IBEX Brigade, said that eight people died after a Border Road Organisation (BRO) camp in Mana was struck by an avalanche. In a video, Brigadier Dhillon said that a total of 46 persons had been rescued and were under various stages of treatment. "On 28th February, early morning, a BRO camp in Mana was struck by an avalanche. The Indian army immediately swung into action and mounted a search and rescue operation," he said. "The operation was conducted day and night, relentlessly over the last three days in inclement weather. A total of 46 persons have been rescued and are under various stages of treatment. Unfortunately, in this event, eight lives were lost. All the mortal remains have now been recovered," said Brig Dhillon. "The Indian army conveys its heartfelt condolences to the families of the workers who lost their lives in this tragedy. Many lives were saved by relentless and professional rescue operations mounted by joint efforts of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, ITBP, NDRF, border roads and the state government," he added. The Indian Army concluded the search and rescue operations at the Mana area of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand on Sunday. These operations were part of the relief efforts to rescue the trapped BRO workers after the avalanche on February 28. Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday offered his condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased BRO workers who lost their lives in the avalanche. The Chief Minister also prayed for the swift recovery of those injured in the avalanche. Speaking to ANI, CM Dhami said, "The rescue operation was going on continuously for the last two days, and the entire rescue is almost complete. The 46 people who were found in it have all been shifted from Badrinath to Joshimath, and some from Joshimath to AIIMS Rishikesh." "May all of them recover soon and get completely cured, and some people are no longer among us. We pray to God to give peace to their souls and give strength to their family members to bear the loss," said CM Dhami. (ANI)
Haryana Police have arrested one accused in the connection with the murder case of Congress worker Himani Narwal, police said on Monday. The body of Himani Narwal was found inside a suitcase near a highway in Rohtak on March 1. Meanwhile, the police have formed a Special Investigation Task Force to probe into the murder of Himani Narwal. Sampla DSP Rajneesh Kumar said, "An SIT has been formed. Her phone has been recovered. We are using cyber and FSL. We are investigating all angles." DSP informed that the deceased lived alone in Haryana while her family stayed in Delhi. The deceased worker's mother made some shocking allegations. The mother, Savita, held the election and the party responsible for her daughter's death, suggesting that Himani's rising stature in the party had created enemies for her. According to Savita, Himani's mother, her daughter was at home on February 28 and had been receiving threats. Savita believes that Himani's close relationships with prominent Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and the Hooda family, had sparked jealousy among some individuals. "The election and the party took my daughter's life. Because of this, she made some enemies. These (the culprits) could be from the party, could be her friends as well...On February 28, she was at home," Savita said. "We received a phone call from the Police Station (regarding the incident). My daughter was very close to Asha Hooda (wife of Bhupinder Singh Hooda). I won't perform her last rites until she gets justice...," she added. Senior Congress leader Bhupinder Singh Hooda condemned the incident, citing a breakdown in law and order in Haryana, which he claims is the worst state in the country for crimes against women. "It is a very painful incident. There is a breakdown of law & order in Haryana. Haryana is number 1 in the country in terms of crime against women...The incident should be investigated as soon as possible," said Hooda. Hooda also lashed out at the BJP-led state government over the alleged murder of the Congress Party worker and demanded a swift investigation and strict punishment for the guilty, regardless of their affiliation. He revealed that he is in touch with police personnel and has spoken with the Superintendent of Police, who is hopeful of finding clues soon. "The incident should be investigated as soon as possible. I am in touch with the Police personnel. I also spoke with SP. They are hopeful that they will get some clues by the evening. I told them that this should be investigated and the guilty should be given the strictest punishment," Hooda said. (ANI)
The Budget Session of the Jammu Legislative Assembly is set to begin on Monday with the Congress party, in alliance with the National Conference, expected to raise the issue of restoring statehood. Ahead of the Budget Session, the Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Sunil Sharma chaired a meeting with the BJP's MLAs to devise a strategy for the session. Speaking aboutthe statehood issue to ANI, Assembly LoP Sunil Sharma said, "Statehood is not an issue and is outside the jurisdiction of the assembly. They (ruling party) should talk about their commitments. They should talk about their commitments of 200 units of free electricity, free ration, free cylinder, pension, employment." Sharma said that the party will raise questions on daily issues faced by people, especially relating to governance" BJP MLA Vikram Randhawa said if Congress or Mehbooba Mufti's PDP raise "meaningless issue" then they "will face trouble." "We should listen to LG's speech peacefully. BJP will make a very positive contribution in the budget session. PDP and Congress are almost in single digit (assembly seats) if they come up with meaningless issues, they will face trouble," Randhawa said. The BJP MLA from Doda West constituency, Shakti Parihar said that the party will play the role of constructive opposition and raise the issues relating to people's interest. Awami Ittehad Party MLA Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh said that they will raise the issue of statehood for J-K and Article 370 "We will raise issues related to our political aspirations and development. We will talk not only about the restoration of statehood (in J&K) but also Article 370. Omar sahib's intentions are not clear about the restoration of statehood (in J&K) but also Article 370. If their intentions were clear, they would have held a meeting with us, not those who oppose it," Khursheed Ahmad Sheikh said. On Sunday, Congress leader Ghulam Ahmed Mir reiterated the demand for restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that it's the wish of the region's 1.4 crore people. "It is the demand of the people... It has nothing to do with the BJP or any other party... 1.4 crore people of Jammu and Kashmir want the state to be restored...," said Mir. Notably, the restoration of Article 370, the reinstatement of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood, and the implementation of the autonomy resolution were key promises in the National Conference's manifesto for the Jammu and Kashmir elections. On August 2019, the Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi repealed Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, effectively ending the special status given to Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
Chamoli's District Magistrate, Sandeep Tiwari, informed that the last body retrieved from the avalanche site yesterday has been brought to Joshimath today. The Indian Army concluded the search and rescue operations at the Mana area of the Chamoli district in Uttarakhand on Sunday. These operations were part of the relief efforts to rescue the trapped Border Roads Organisation (BRO) workers after the avalanche on February 28. Speaking to ANI, Chamoli DM Sandeep Tiwari said, "The last body retrieved from the avalanche site yesterday has been brought to Joshimath today. Legal formalities and Panchnama are being done. I thank all agencies and team members for the timely completion of the operation." Legal procedures and documentation are now being completed. Chamoli's District Magistrate thanked all the teams and agencies involved in the operation for their timely efforts as he said, "I thank Army, ITBP, Air Force, NDRF, and SDRF for the timely completion of the operation." According to the Indian Army, in the avalanche, 46 out of the 54 BRO workers were rescued and are undergoing treatment, while eight people lost their lives in the avalanche. "Search and rescue operations at the Mana Avalanche site concluded today with 46 workers being rescued successfully, who are currently being given necessary medical treatment. However, despite relentless efforts, day and night, through inclement conditions by the search and rescue parties, 8 lives could not be saved," posted the Army on X. "The Indian Army extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of those who lost their lives in this tragedy. We also salute the indomitable courage of all personnel of the Border Roads Organisation, who are our partners in developing remote areas of our country," read the post by the Army on X. Meanwhile, on Sunday, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami offered his condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased BRO workers who lost their lives in the avalanche. The Chief Minister also prayed for the swift recovery of the BRO workers injured in the avalanche. (ANI)
Kota MP and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla arrived in Vrindavan on Monday for a two-day religious trip, accompanied by his family and around 70 other members. During his visit, Birla is scheduled to perform a special prayer and worship ceremony at Keshighat, where he will offer his respects to the Yamuna River. Following that, the Lok Sabha Speaker will visit the famous Banke Bihari Temple in Vrindavan, one of the most revered sites in the region. After visiting Banke Bihari Temple, Om Birla will travel to Govardhan, where he will worship at the Girraj Ji Temple and the Shrinath Ji Temple. Recently, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended two symposiums on 'Adoption to Changing Landscape: My Viksit Bharat--2047' organised by the Northern India Regional Council, Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICAI), in New Delhi. In his inaugural address, Birla said, "Today's India with deeper democratic spirit, stable government and visionary leadership, is a land of immense opportunities for the investors. The fastest growing economy in the world is a favourite destination for investment across the world." Referring to legal reforms in India, Birla noted that for the first time in India, an effort has been made to change colonial laws, repeal redundant laws, and make new laws that are in sync with the hopes and aspirations of the people of New India. Mentioning GST, proposed income tax legislation, and changes in labour laws and company laws, Birla emphasized that these initiatives reflect the leadership's vision to take the country on the path of progress and prosperity. "New laws are not only simple, transparent and progressive but also inclusive to improve the life of the last person in the society. Progressive laws always take into consideration the changing requirements of the country and the society and the changing international scenario," he added. Stating that developments in the fields of infrastructure, road connectivity, rail connectivity, air connectivity have augmented the capacity to bring in more investment to the country, the Lok Sabha Speaker observed that these investments will ultimately benefit the society at large. (ANI)
The accused had recently committed a robbery in Ashok Vihar and was on the run.

During interrogation, the accused was identified as Sahil Khan, a resident of Uttar Pradesh who was wanted in connection with FIR 67/25 under various sections registered at Ashok Vihar police station.

On Sunday, the Special Staff received intelligence input suggesting that the suspect might visit the Prembari Nala area in New Delhi. Acting on this information, a joint team of the Special Staff and the Ashok Vihar police station was formed.

According to Inspector Sombir the team laid a trap at Prem Bari Nala and spotted a suspicious individual around 10 am.

When officers signaled him to stop, he opened fire on the police party, firing two rounds. In retaliation, the police fired back, injuring him in the leg.

Further investigation into the matter is underway. (ANI)
Delhi Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Monday lashed out at the Aam Aadmi Party, following the recent revelations of 'irregularities' in the report on Delhi's health infrastructure by Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Speaking with ANI, Manjider Singh Sirsa said that AAP's health model "merely meant to collect money and divert people's attention." "The CAG report has revealed all irregularities of the AAP government. Their health model was also merely meant to collect money and divert people's attention. Because of this health model, many people lost their lives in COVID," Sirsa said. Sirsa assured that the BJP government is committed to making Delhi a clean city. "We are committed to ending vehicular pollution in Delhi and to make sure Delhi becomes a clean city," Sirsa said. Delhi CM tabled the CAG Report on Performance Audit on 'Public Health Infrastructure and Management of Health Services' (Report No. 3 of the year 2024) was placed in the Legislative Assembly of Delhi on February 28. The report revealed underutilisation of funds, delays in project execution, shortage of staffs and drugs under the Aam Aadmi Party government. According to the CAG report, the AAP-led government in Delhi 'grossly' mismanaged the COVID pandemic in the national capital using only Rs 582.84 crore of the total Rs 787.91 crore released by the central government. The CAG performance audit report 5 of the year 2024 for the period 2016-17 to 2021-22 reviewed the "dire status" of Mohalla clinics under the previous government's Mohalla Clinic scheme. The report stated that 21 Aam Aadmi Mohalla Clinics did not have toilets, 15 did not have a power backup, six did not have any table for check-up and 12 did not have accessibility for the physically disabled. Similar was the situation of the AYUSH dispensaries, with 17 of the 49 inspected dispensaries having no power backup, 7 having no toilet, and 14 having no facility for drinking water. The series of CAG reports, which are being tabled in the Delhi Assembly, has created a political furore between the Aam Aadmi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party, with almost all AAP MLAs except one being suspended for three days for protesting against the ruling party. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party's national spokesperson CR Keshavan on Monday slammed Dravida Munnetra Kazghagam over its opposition of the three-language policy and constituency delimitation, saying that the party is engaging in "desperate and dishonest diversionary drama" Keshavan also suggested that DMK's opposition to central government policy does not align with Rahul Gandhi's slogan of 'Jitni abadi utna Haq' and asked if they have the "courage" to question the Congress leader. "Does the DMK, which is engaging in desperate and dishonest diversionary drama, have the courage to question Rahul Gandhi and seek an explanation on his call for 'Jitni Abadi, Utna Haq', means rights proportionate to population...this call of Rahul Gandhi is in direct contradiction with what DMK is purportedly claiming," Keshavan said. Keshavan further said that DMK is "trying to divert the attention from the gross mismanagement, misrule and misgovernance" In relation to his demand for caste census, Rahul Gandhi had endorsed the slogan of 'Jitni abadi utna Haq' saying that this was a pledge of the Congress. Earlier in the day, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin sounded a strong warning against the central government's alleged attempts to impose Hindi on the state. Stalin emphasised that the state's Chief Minister, MK Stalin, has made it clear that Tamil Nadu rejects the NEP, delimitation, and Hindi imposition. He accused the central government of trying to "impose Hindi sideways" and through the NEP. "The Tamil Nadu CM is the person who has brought the Metro Railway project to Chennai. The CM said three things recently: we don't accept NEP, we won't accept delimitation, and we won't accept Hindi imposition. Today, the central is trying to impose the Hindi language sideways. Centre is directly trying to impose Hindi through the New Education Policy. Tamil Nadu will never accept the New Education Policy and Hindi imposition in any manner. We (DMK) are not feared by Central Government threats because the current regime is DMK, not AIADMK. The current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is MK Stalin, not Edappadi Palaniswami (AIADMK Chief and Former CM)...," said Udhayanidhi Stalin. The Tamil Nadu government has strongly opposed implementing the New Education Policy (NEP) of 2020, raising concern over the "three-language formula" and alleging that the Centre wants to 'impose' Hindi. Stalin criticised the three-language policy, saying that it had resulted in the centre withholding the state's funds and that delimitation would now 'affect' the state's representation. (ANI)
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to review the implementation of the New Criminal Laws in Goa on Monday evening. The review meeting is to be held in the presence of the Goa Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant. Earlier on February 18, the Union Home Minister emphasized urgent necessity of enforcing "trial in absentia" provisions as well as full implementation of new criminal laws in Jammu and Kashmir by April 2025 during a meeting with the Union Territory's Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. During the meeting, Shah asked the UT administration for optimum use of technology to ensure speedy justice under the three new criminal laws-- the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023; Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023; and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), 2023; that replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively. The Home Minister had also reviewed the implementation of these laws in a meeting with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis iand asked him to implement these laws across all commissionerates as soon as possible. Shah has held similar meetings with other states in the past few months regarding the implementation of the three new criminal laws. These states include Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Haryana. During the discussion in a similar meeting earlier with various states and UTs, the Home Minister had said that the essence of the three new criminal laws introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi lay in the provision of delivering justice within three years, from the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) till the highest court. In December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the successful implementation of three landmark criminal laws, dedicating them to the nation. The three laws are: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. These laws were conceptualized with the vision of the Prime Minister to replace colonial-era laws that persisted post-independence and to reform the judicial system by shifting the focus from punishment to justice. The theme of the program is "Secure Society, Developed India- From Punishment to Justice". These laws were conceptualised with the vision of the Prime Minister to replace the colonial-era laws that persisted post-independence and to reform the judicial system by shifting focus from punishment to justice. The theme of this programme is "Secure Society, Developed India- From Punishment to Justice."(ANI)
The Tamil Nadu Higher Secondary Certificate Examination (HSE +2) commenced on Monday, with students across the state appearing for the Class 12 public examination. Students offered Prayers before the Exam in Trichy Seva Sangam Girls Higher Secondary School. The students rushed to schools with admit cards in one hand and a bag with essentials like pens and scales in another, all set to take the Board's High School and Intermediate examination. Trichy District Collector Pradeep Kumar inspected the examination hall at St. Philomena's Girls Higher Secondary School in Trichy, ensuring the smooth conduct of the exam. In the Trichy district, a total of 31,580 students, including 324 physically challenged students, appeared for the exam. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Minister for School Education Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi visited an exam centre in Nagapattinam, where he met and extended his greetings to the students appearing for the board examination. On February 23, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his wishes to students appearing for their board exams, urging them to stay happy and approach exams with a positive spirit and without any stress. Addressing the 119th episode of his 'Mann ki Baat' programme, PM Modi said, "These are the times of board exams. I extend my best wishes to my young friends and the exam warriors for upcoming exams. Approach your papers with a positive spirit, without any stress." "Every year, during 'Pariksha pe Charcha, ' we discuss various aspects of exams with our exam warriors. I am glad that this initiative is becoming more institutionalized with new experts joining in. This year, we introduced a new format for Pariksha pe Charcha. ' We include eight different episodes featuring experts. We covered a wide range of topics, from overall exam preparation to health care, mental well-being and nutrition. Additionally, previous toppers also shared insights and experiences with everyone," PM Modi highlighted. "Be happy and stress-free," he asserted. (ANI)
The budget session of the Maharashtra Legislature commenced on Monday, with the Governor addressing the joint session of both houses at Vidhan Bhavan. The session is expected to focus on key issues, including the Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute, investments, and welfare schemes. In his address, the Governor reaffirmed the government's commitment to resolving the Maharashtra-Karnataka border dispute and stated that expert advocates have been appointed to represent Maharashtra in the Supreme Court. He also emphasized the state's focus on the welfare of Marathi-speaking people in the border areas through various educational and healthcare schemes. Highlighting Maharashtra's position as a leading industrial state, the Governor noted that the state contributes over 14 percent of India's total GDP and remains a top destination for foreign direct investment. "At the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2025, the Maharashtra government signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth over Rs15.72 lakh crore with 63 national and international companies. These agreements are expected to create more than 15 lakh employment opportunities in the state," he said. "Our government is committed to fostering industrial growth and generating employment opportunities. To attract investment, we have planned to disburse investment promotion subsidies amounting to Rs5,000 crores to various industries in the state. Through the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation, we will also allot approximately 3,500 acres of industrial plots to support and encourage industrialization," the Governor added in his speech. He further added, "Recognizing the demand for land, we have decided to notify 10,000 acres for industrial purposes and develop 10 industrial parks and integrated logistics parks to strengthen the industrial supply chain and create a world-class business ecosystem." Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday assured that despite the opposition's absence from the pre-session meeting, the government would strive to run the session smoothly. Maharashtra's Budget Session will begin on Monday and conclude on March 26. "The opposition did not attend the meeting today ahead of the Budget Session. The opposition has sent us a letter...we will definitely try to run this session smoothly," said Pawar. The State Budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 will be presented in both Houses of the legislature on March 10 by Ajit Pawar, who also holds the portfolio of Finance and Planning. During the Budget Session, the Legislative Assembly will continue working on March 8, a public holiday. (ANI)
Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge on Monday reacted to Congress leader Veerappa Moily's praise of Deputy CM DK Shivakumar. Congress leader and former Union Minister Veerappa Moily on Sunday said that no one can stop Shivakumar from becoming the Chief Minister of Karnataka "You (DK Shivakumar) have given good leadership. You have built the party. People are making statements but no one can stop you from becoming CM. There is no need to get agitated about it. No one can stop you from becoming CM. Becoming Chief Minister is not something that should be given as a gift, it is something he has earned through hard work," Moily said. Reacting to this, Priyank Kharge said that the party's high command decides on who will be the Chief Minister. "Neither Moily nor anyone else said that DK Shivakumar is going to be the CM today or tomorrow. They said that one day, he would be rewarded for his hard work. High command will decide it. If I say so in front of the media, will it happen? Our responsibilities are very clear, Siddaramaiah is the CM, DK Shivakumar is the DyCM," he said. "I might want somebody to become CM one day, if they work hard, they will be rewarded tomorrow. Whatever he said, it is his opinion," Kharge added. Earlier, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has termed the reports suggesting that he is getting close to the BJP "false propaganda," emphasising that he was a born Congressman. "I was born a congressman, and I cherish it. It is being misled that I am getting closer to the BJP, which is a false conspiracy against me," Shivakumar had said. Former Karnataka Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai also said there is no discussion within the BJP regarding Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar joining the party, adding that political developments happen swiftly. "Different interpretations are emerging within Congress, which is their internal issue. It reflects their party's mistrust and confusion. When there is mistrust, there will also be dissent. However, there is no discussion about DK Shivakumar joining the BJP. Political developments happen quickly, sometimes overnight. But as per our understanding, there is no such situation at present," Bommai said. (ANI)
The Punjab Police's Cyber Crime Division has arrested Gaurav Kumar, the main accused in a case involving a fake website impersonating the official portal of the Punjab Government's Mining Department. The accused allegedly issued fraudulent permits for illegal mining, causing a financial loss of Rs40 -50 lakh to the state. https://x.com/DGPPunjabPolice/status/1896411573947896016 In a post on X, Punjab Police wrote, "In a significant breakthrough, the State Cyber Crime Division has arrested the main accused running a fake website impersonating the Mining Department of the Punjab Government. The main accused, Gaurav Kumar, has been arrested for cloning the Punjab Govt's mining portal. He issued fraudulent permits for illegal mining, causing a loss of Rs40 -50 lakh to the state. The accused, in connivance with a mining businessman, generated 2000+ fake receipts using QR/barcodes to bypass security checks." "The modus operandi involved generating and issuing fake mining forms, which spoofed the official website, to facilitate the movement of vehicles engaged in illegal mining, causing substantial losses to the state exchequer. He added that FIR is registered, and further investigation is underway to uncover the full nexus! The website backup, along with data containing details of fake receipts, images of vehicles, mining material sources and destinations, and the computer systems used in the offense, has been recovered," the post added on X. Punjab Police stated that its Cyber Crime Division remains committed to safeguarding digital platforms and taking strict action against cyber fraudsters. The department has reiterated its efforts in preventing online scams and financial crimes. Meanwhile, the Punjab Police recovered 2 kg of heroin from the accused after an exchange of fire took place between the Punjab Police and a drug smuggler in Ferozepur. SSP Ferozepur Bhupinder Singh said, "The police were conducting a special check. When the officers signalled the miscreant to stop the car, he tried to run over the police." Further details are awaited as the investigation is underway. (ANI)
Following a tip-off about the whereabouts of the absconding accused, DCP Shivaji Pawar from Zone 3 of Pimpri Chinchwad Police, along with his team, set a trap in Chinchoshi village to apprehend the suspects, Sachin Bhosale and Mithun Bhosale, who were wanted in a dacoity and robbery case.

As the police approached the suspects to arrest them, Sachin Bhosale attacked the police team with a machete. During the attack, DCP Shivaji Pawar and his officer, Assistant Police Inspector (API) Prasanna Jahad, sustained injuries.

In retaliation, DCP Pawar fired two rounds from his service pistol, injuring Sachin Bhosale in the leg. However, the second accused, Mithun Bhosale, managed to escape.

The injured officers and the accused are currently receiving treatment at a hospital.

Meanwhile, a case has been registered at Chakan Police Station against the accused under Sections 109, 132, and 121 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and relevant sections of the Arms Act.

DCP Shivaji Pawar is known for his initial investigation of the Urban Naxal-linked Elgar Parishad, which led to the Koregaon Bhima Violence on January 1, 2018.

Further investigations are ongoing. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav participated in a discussion program with industrialists and stated that his government is working to promote growth and employment in the State. The programme was held on Sunday at the Collectorate Office in Katni district. Chief Minister Yadav noted that Katni has potential for industrial investment and its promotion will generate new opportunities for employment, stressing that an industry conclave will be organised in Katni soon. "Madhya Pradesh provides a conducive and favorable environment for industrial investment. The Industry conclaves will be organised in 10 different districts of the state, including Katni, considering the available resources and potential in various regions. Katni has significant potential for industrial investment. Promoting industry and investment in Katni will create new opportunities for employment and economic growth. In light of this, a Mineral, Mining, and Food Processing Industry Conclave will soon be organized in Katni," the Chief Minister said. The Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister added that 2025 has been declared as the 'Year of Industry and Employment' to promote industrial development in the state. Throughout the year, efforts will be made as a mission to drive industrial growth. He further elaborated that based on the availability of opportunities in specific sectors, industry conclaves will be held in 10 different locations across the state. The initiative will begin in Indore with an industry conclave focused on IT, semiconductors, and AI followed by another conclave in Ujjain, centered on tourism (particularly religious tourism) and food processing. Subsequently, industry conclaves will be organized in other locations as well. CM Yadav emphasized that Katni holds immense potential for industrial development in mining and minerals, food processing, lime and marble industries. He affirmed the government's commitment to working in alignment with all sections of society for overall development. Madhya Pradesh offers favorable conditions for industrial investment, with diverse opportunities across the state. With strategic efforts, the state is moving towards a new era of industrial growth. During an interactive session with industrialists, the Chief Minister directed Jabalpur Division Commissioner Abhay Verma and Katni Collector Dilip Kumar Yadav to ensure that government policies and available benefits related to industrial establishment are effectively communicated to industrialists. (ANI)
According to officials, a parcel of small crackers had arrived from Hyderabad, and the explosion took place when one of the bundles was accidentally dropped. The loud blast caused panic among workers, who rushed for safety.

The injured individuals were immediately shifted to the Kakinada Government General Hospital (GGH) for treatment.

Speaking on the incident, Kakinada District Superintendent of Police (SP) Bindu Madhav confirmed that the explosion occurred due to crackers in the parcel. "A crackers explosion took place in the morning at Jai Balaji Transporters when workers were unloading the parcel. Due to the impact, the crackers exploded, injuring four people," he said.

The police have seized two more bags of crackers and launched an investigation. Further details are awaited. (ANI)
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah clarified that there are currently no plans for an alliance with the BJP, emphasizing the party's commitment to its own political vision. "We are not talking about any alliance (with the BJP); neither is there any scope nor the need. Our thoughts also do not align. If we talk about J&K, our thoughts are vastly different... We will hold discussions on everything (during the session)," he said. Meanwhile, today, the Chief Minister addressed the first Budget session in the Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assembly. While addressing the assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, highlighting his contributions to India's economic growth and key welfare initiatives. "Manmohan Singh ji was born in undivided India. He went to Oxford and Cambridge and started as an officer and finance minister and then PM. When he became finance minister, our country was going through an economic crisis. Today we are the biggest economies of India. Today, the private sector is developing as the license raj was stopped. As PM, he took Indira Awas Yojana, MGNREGA initiatives," Omar Abdullah said. He recalled Manmohan Singh's farewell press conference and said, "Manmohan, in his last press conference, said, 'History will be a better judge of me than contemporary times.' All world leaders respected him." He further recounted an incident showcasing the former PM Manmohan Singh's humility, saying, "I remember I wrote a letter to him (Manmohan) on some issue, and I gave an interview on that issue. But I didn't mention the letter, there was an issue that protocol has been broken. He called me and said This is not right; you addressed the issue in the press. I told him I have not done that... but after 15 minutes, he called back and apologized... He was PM, didn't need to do so." Chief Minister also stated that former Pakistan President Gen Pervez Musharraf and Manmohan Singh had made significant progress in resolving the Kashmir issue. Highlighting infrastructure projects initiated during Manmohan Singh's tenure, Abdullah said, "Working groups were made, and for Kashmiri Pandits, jobs were created, and they went back to Kashmir. Jagti township was made at his time and Kashmiri Pandit migrants... Manmohan Singh started the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. Today, we are waiting for the PM to inaugurate the train to Banihal. It was started by Manmohan Singh's time, and he started the world's highest railway bridge work." (ANI)
Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw will attend the 56th convocation ceremony of Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) as a chief guest on Tuesday, according to a release. Convocation ceremony will honour 2023-24 batch with diplomas and excellence awards, said the release by the Information and Broadcasting Ministry The convocation will celebrate the achievements of the 478 students of the nine courses of 2023-24 batch by awarding them the Post Graduate Diploma certificates. Students from IIMC New Delhi and its five regional campuses-Dhenkanal, Aizawl, Amravati, Kottayam, and Jammu-will be conferred their diplomas during the ceremony. Additionally, 36 outstanding students will be honored with various medals and cash awards in recognition of their academic excellence, the release stated. The event will bring together distinguished faculty members and guests to mark this momentous occasion, underscoring IIMC's commitment to fostering excellence in media and communication education. IIMC is India's premier media training institution that offers education in the field of media and communication. Set up in 1965, IIMC offers PG Diploma courses in Hindi Journalism, English Journalism, Advertising and Public Relations, Radio and Television Journalism, Digital Media, Odia Journalism, Marathi Journalism, Malayalam Journalism, and Urdu Journalism. Apart from this, after getting the status of Deemed to be University in the year 2024, two postgraduate degree program's in Media Business Studies and Strategic Communication have also been started by the Deemed to be university, the release added. Earlier on February 1, Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw inspected the steel bridge site of the National High-Speed Rail Project at Nadiad on Saturday. The 200-meter-long bridge comprises two spans of 100 meters each and will be launched over National Highway 48 (connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai) near Nadiad.This 14.3 m wide and 14.6 m high steel bridge weighs around 1500 MT (each span) and was fabricated at the Salasar workshop near Hapur, U.P. (ANI)
https://x.com/official_dgar/status/1896449382301475008

In a post on X, the official wrote, "AssamRifles, along with Mizoram Police, recovered Methamphetamine Tablets weighing 20.209 Kgs Worth Rs 60.627 Crores in general area Crossing Point One, Zokhawthar, Champhai District, Mizoram on 28 Feb 2025."

On February 28, Assam Rifles and Mizoram Police conducted intelligence-based joint operations in Mizoram, leading to the apprehension of three individuals and the recovery of arms and ammunition.

On February 27, security forces launched an operation based on specific intelligence inputs in Lawngtlai town, Lawngtlai district. This operation resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the recovery of ammunition.

In another operation in the general area of Saiha, one individual was apprehended along with a .22mm Air Carbine and ammunition. The apprehended individuals and recovered items have been handed over to Mizoram Police for further legal proceedings.

Meanwhile, the security forces conducted various search operations in the hill and valley districts' fringe and vulnerable areas.

Earlier in the week, the members of 'Arambai Tengol'- a Meitei organisation--surrendered their arms to the state government of Manipur. The move follows their meeting with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on February 25.

Following Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla's appeal and joint public awareness efforts by the District Police, Assam Rifles and CRPF, people in Manipur have begun surrendering illegally held weapons.

Earlier, according to a release by the Ministry of Defense, the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Indian Army, Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, visited Manipur last week to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation along the Indo-Myanmar Border (IMB) and insights into the status of ongoing border infrastructure developments in the state. (ANI)
Tolentino blasts fake news; calls on ABS-CBN to explain, apologize for using photos of him, staff for a TV Patrol crime report

Reelectionist Senator Francis 'TOL' Tolentino is demanding ABS-CBN News to explain and apologize for erroneously flashing photos of him and his staff for a crime news report that aired on TV Patrol last night.

"I strongly condemn the use of photos showing me and my staff members, who were even wearing my campaign shirt, for a TV Patrol report on a shooting that wounded three people in Barangay Labangal, General Santos City," the senator said.

Tolentino also asked ABS-CBN to take down the news item that was posted on its website, YouTube, and Facebook platforms.

"This is downright fake news! My staff and I had no involvement of whatever kind with the said crime. Intentional or not, this mistake could have been prevented if only ABS-CBN News verified the pictures. Observing due diligence is the primary responsibility of any media organization," he stressed.

Tolentino noted that the photos shown during the Sunday edition (March 2) of TV Patrol were actually from the General Santos airport last week - when the senator visited the city as one of guests at the Kalilangan Festival last February 27.

"Ironically, the Kalilangan Festival highlights peace and the unity of the people in GenSan," he pointed out.

"I will officially file a complaint against them through the COMELEC and National Telecommunications Office. Legal action may also be considered," Tolentino, a lawyer, said.

"I call on them to take down the news report, explain, and apologize. If this act can be committed on a sitting senator, then what more for ordinary Filipinos? In today's digital era, a moment of fake news can destroy a reputation built for a lifetime," he concluded.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC K Kavitha on Monday criticised Telangana government's efforts in connection with the operations to rescue workers trapped in the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel collapse. Speaking with ANI, K Kavitha said, "This is an unfortunate incident where labourers from many states have been stuck in the collapsed tunnel for many days. The rescue operation could have been carried out with better coordination. I feel the state government did not give in their all." Kavitha noted that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy visited the collapse site only yesterday and said he gave a "political" speech. "The Chief Minister visited the site yesterday, seven days after the incident. There also, he gave a political speech," she said. K Kavitha also urged the Telangana Chief Minister to "give the best possible compensation to the families of the victims." Reddy visited the site of the collapse on Sunday and assessed the ongoing rescue operation. NDRF Commandant VVN Prasanna Kumar today that the operation to save eight workers trapped following the collapse of the SLBC tunnel was underway and at full capacity, "Actually, the operation is going on in full swing. Approximately twelve agencies are working around the clock to find the victims. Unfortunately, we have not been able to locate them so far," said the National Disaster Response Force Commandant. He further stated that both the Telangana and Central governments have deployed top experts from across the country to assist in the complex tunnel operation."Due to the complexity of the tunnel operation, we could not achieve success so far. However, maximum manpower is engaged in a planned manner, and hopefully, we will get success in a short time," Kumar said. According to the NDRF Commandant, approximately 300 personnel, including 100 NDRF members, along with SDRF, Indian Army, and Singareni teams, are actively involved in the rescue efforts."The main hurdle for us is the TBM (Tunnel Boring Machine), which is a 1,500-ton machine that got damaged inside the tunnel, causing a major problem for us," he said. (ANI)
The opposition YSRCP on Monday claimed that the TDP government in Andhra Pradesh has expanded restrictions on media coverage under the Red Book regulations, further intensifying the controversy in the state legislature. Since the start of the session, multiple channels have faced restrictions. Since February 24, 2025, which marked the first day of the assembly session, the YSR Congress Party has been making accusations. The YSR Congress Party, which is the opposition party in Andhra Pradesh, has been demonstrating against the refusal to allow media houses such as Sakshi, NTV, TV9, and 10TV to cover the ongoing budget session of the state legislative assembly. According to a YSRCP release, the ban, which was initially imposed on four media channels, including Sakshi, has now been extended further. The party also stated that live telecasts of the Legislative Council sessions have been completely halted, with access being granted only to government-friendly media outlets. The release also said, "Previously, on session days, live video links for both the Assembly and Legislative Council proceedings were shared with all media organizations and the public through the state's Information Department. The citizens could watch these sessions on their mobile phones or other internet-enabled devices. However, with the suspension of the Legislative Council live broadcasts, the public is now denied direct access to these important proceedings." Additionally, the YSRCP State office release stated, "This is an unprecedented move in the history of the state's legislature. In addition to denying passes to journalists from certain media organizations, the government has now barred them from broadcasting the sessions altogether. No explanation has been given for this decision, nor has the government followed due process before imposing such restrictions. No complaints, inquiries, or prior notices were issued, raising concerns over a blatant disregard for democratic principles and natural justice." The YSRCP's release further alleged that targeted restrictions have been imposed on certain media outlets since the formation of the government. "Since the formation of the coalition government, targeted restrictions have been imposed on certain media houses, extending from the state secretariat to district levels. There are also increasing reports of journalists and media organizations facing harassment through false cases. These actions reflect a concerning trend of media suppression, undermining the fundamental role of the Fourth Estate in democracy," stated the release. (ANI)
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Monday couples of the state to "give birth to child immediately" to ensure greater representation in Parliament. This move is a direct response to the Centre''s plans for constituency delimitation on a ''pro-rata'' basis, which Stalin believes will unfairly limit southern states'' representation. Addressing at the marriage ceremony of a party worker''s son, Stalin said that MPs count depends on population adding that now he won''t say don''t rush to give birth to child. "Before it is used to say don''t give birth to child immediately, no need to rush. But now it is not necessary, we shouldn''t say that also..Because it is being said that the number of MPs would be decided based on population. The situation created is more population, more MPs. But we have achieved success with focusing on family planning. Now I won''t say don''t rush to give birth to child, give birth to child immediately." Stalin emphasised that the number of MPs is directly tied to population, saying, "With 39 MPs, we are fighting for rights, with more MPs, we can achieve our thoughts." Stalin also requested all parties to attend an all party meeting regarding delimitation. The context behind Stalin''s statement is the looming delimitation exercise, which may significantly impact Tamil Nadu''s parliamentary representation. The state''s Lok Sabha share is expected to increase only marginally, while other states, like Uttar Pradesh, are poised for more substantial gains. Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin emphasised that Tamil Nadu rejects the NEP, delimitation, and Hindi imposition. He accused the central government of trying to "impose Hindi sideways" and through the NEP. "The Tamil Nadu CM is the person who has brought the Metro Railway project to Chennai. The CM said three things recently: we don''t accept NEP, we won''t accept delimitation, and we won''t accept Hindi imposition. Today, the central is trying to impose the Hindi language sideways. Centre is directly trying to impose Hindi through the New Education Policy. Tamil Nadu will never accept the New Education Policy and Hindi imposition in any manner. We (DMK) are not feared by Central Government threats because the current regime is DMK, not AIADMK. The current Tamil Nadu Chief Minister is MK Stalin, not Edappadi Palaniswami (AIADMK Chief and Former CM)...," said Udhayanidhi Stalin. Earlier this week, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said at a BJP programme in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, that the southern States will not be disadvantaged by the delimitation process. The southern leaders, including Stalin and Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah, has strongly criticised the government over constituency delimitation. Earlier, Tamil Nadu CM Stalin urged the people to "rise" to defend the state in a fight against the delimitation of constituencies and the three-language policy. Stalin criticised the three-language policy, saying that it had resulted in the centre withholding the state''s funds and that delimitation would now ''affect'' the state''s representation. "Their three-language policy has already resulted in the withholding of our rightful funds. Likewise, while they claim they will not reduce Tamil Nadu''s parliamentary seats, they are unwilling to assure that the representation of other states will not be disproportionately increased. Our demand is clear - do not determine parliamentary constituencies based on population alone...We will never compromise on Tamil Nadu''s welfare and future for anyone or anything...Tamil Nadu will resist! Tamil Nadu will prevail," Stalin said. (ANI)
Police have found bite marks and scratches on the hands of the accused arrested in the connection to the murder of Congress worker Himani Narwal, according to sources. According to the police sources, the accused, identified as Sachin, said that Himani had bitten his hand in self-defence. The Police sources also revealed that the accused had taken away Himani''s gold chain and rings before disposing of the body. "A slip of some jewellery has also been found with the accused. The police is verifying whether he has taken a loan by keeping Himani''s jewellery," sources said. The police on Monday had arrested one accused in connection with the murder case of Congress worker Himani Narwal, Following the arrest the brother of the deceased on Monday demanded the death penalty for the accused. Speaking with ANI, Himani Narwal''s brother, Jatin said, "One accused has been arrested, and today we will cremate her (Himani Narwal). A lot of rumours are being spread in the media. I request media to not spread misinformation. We will get justice. We still don''t know who the accused is; the police have not given us any information. We want death penalty for the accused," Jatin said. The Uncle of Himani Narwal also demanded justice, "Whoever the accused is, we want justice. Till the time the identity of the accused is revealed, we will not cremate her. We have had no contact with the police," Ravinder said. The body of Himani Narwal was found stuffed in a suitcase near a highway in Rohtak on March 1. Earlier, the mother of the deceased Congress party worker held the election and the party responsible for her daughter''s death, suggesting that Himani''s rising stature in the party had created enemies for her. "The election and the party took my daughter''s life. Because of this, she made some enemies. These (the culprits) could be from the party, could be her friends as well," Mother of the deceased alleged. (ANI)
The Delhi High Court's Division Bench on Monday scheduled a hearing for April 7 to address the petitions challenging the results of the Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) 2025 examinations. During the proceedings, Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay stressed the importance of prompt action to ease the anxiety of students who have been awaiting clarity on the matter, suggesting that the matter could be addressed with expedited resolution. During the proceedings, the Counsel for the NLU Consortium acknowledged the challenges to the CLAT UG and PG examinations and committed to preparing a compilation of questions and relevant judgments. The petitioner argued that despite the differences between the UG and PG exams, they should be considered together due to overlapping issues. Additionally, the petitioner challenged the exorbitant fees charged by CLAT, questioning the authority behind such fees. Initially, these challenges were filed in various High Courts across the country but were transferred to the Delhi High Court by the Supreme Court. The court has appointed a nodal officer and directed the registry to consolidate all matters received from various High Courts. The counsel for the CLAT Consortium has been instructed to submit a counter affidavit within two weeks. Last month, the Supreme Court ordered the transfer of all petitions challenging the results of the 2025 Common Law Admission Test (CLAT) to the Delhi High Court. This decision was made to avoid conflicting rulings and streamline the proceedings. The CLAT 2025 examinations, conducted in December last year, serve as the gateway for admissions to undergraduate and postgraduate law programs at National Law Universities across the country. Several petitions were filed in various high courts, claiming that several questions in the exam were incorrect. (ANI)
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday called upon the people to contribute wholeheartedly to the welfare of soldiers and their families, terming it the national duty of every citizen while addressing the Armed Forces Flag Day Corporate Social Responsibility (AFFD CSR) Conclave in New Delhi, Rajnath Singh stated that India's soldiers always stand firm, vigilant and ready at the borders in difficult conditions to protect the country from all kinds of threats with courage and promptness. "While the Government is committed to strengthening India's security apparatus and ensuring the welfare of its soldiers and their families, it is the nation's collective responsibility to come forward and support them in every way possible," Singh said. He asserted that CSR is not about a two percent contribution; it is a matter of heart-to-heart connection with the brave soldiers and their dependents. "Whatever contribution you make, it will not be ordinary. You should take full care that tomorrow, when your real balance sheet is ready, it has more assets of satisfaction and happiness than liabilities," he told the top corporate heads present on the occasion. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government's commitment to enhance the participation of the private sector, stating that the goal of Aatmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat can be achieved through the concerted efforts of all stakeholders. He exuded confidence that, with growing private sector participation, India will be among the top three economies of the world by 2027. He commended the corporate houses for their generous contributions to the AFFD Fund and felicitated top CSR donors on the occasion. The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence, has been working to improve the welfare and rehabilitation of war widows, wards of fallen soldiers, and ex-servicemen, including disabled ones, by providing financial assistance for their identified personal needs, such as penury grants, children's education grants, funeral grants, medical grants, and orphan/disabled children grants. The conclave was attended by MoS (Defence) Sanjay Seth, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Dr Niten Chandra, other senior MoD officials, members from the CSR fraternity, and serving and retired personnel of the Armed Forces. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday permitted YouTuber and Podcaster Ranveer Allahabadia to resume his podcast 'The Ranveer Show', subject to maintaining standards of decency and morality. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh allowed Allahabadia to resume the show after taking into note that livelihood of around 280 employees depends on the telecast of his show. "As of now, petitioner was restrained from airing any shows. Subject to the petitioner furnishing an undertaking that his podcast shows will maintain the desired standards of morality and decency so that viewers of any age group can watch, the petitioner is permitted to resume 'The Ranveer Show'," the bench added in its order. Earlier, it had also directed Allahabadia and his associates to be "off from show business from sometime". The apex court further asked the Centre to propose measures to regulate content for YouTube channels and social media. The bench took into note the submission of the Attorney General R Venkatramani and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that with regard to prevent telecast or airing of programmes which are not acceptable in terms of known moral standards of our society, some regulatory measures may be required. It asked the Solicitor General, appearing for Centre, to deliberate upon and suggest some measures which shall not impinge the fundamental right of free speech and expression but also effective enough to ensure that it is within bounds of Section 19. Any draft regulatory measure in this regard can then be put in the public domain to invite suggestions from stakeholders before taking any legislative or judicial measure in this regard, it further said. The bench also extended its interim order of granting protection to the podcaster from arrest in the FIRs registered against him in Guwahati, Mumbai and Jaipur. The bench was hearing his petition seeking clubbing of FIRs registered against him across the country for controversial remarks made by him and others who were part of an episode of India's Got Latent. During the hearing, the top court observed that everyone has the right to watch what they want but just because you have commerical interests it cannot be you can say something. The Solicitor General said free expression should be protected, but vulgarity and perversity should not reach our children. With regard to Allahabadia's prayer to allow him to travel abroad as guest in foreign countries, the bench said this prayer shall be considered after he joins probe and is no longer required for the said purpose. Earlier, the top court came down heavily on Allahabadia for his inappropriate comments during his guest appearance on the show India's Got Latent and described it as "dirty and perverted." The bench had also directed no further FIR shall be registered against him on the basis of episode aired on show India's Got Latent. It had also asked him to deposit his passport with police and he can't leave country without permission of the court. The top court had also asked the Centre if it wanted to do something about obscene content on YouTube and other social media and sought the Attorney General and Solicitor General's assistance in the matter. It said we should not overlook the importance and sensitivity of the issue. On February 11, the Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, said the Guwahati Police have registered an FIR against YouTubers and social influencers Allahabadia, Samay Raina, Ashish Chanchlani, Jaspreet Singh, Apoorva Makhija, and others for promoting obscenity and engaging in sexually explicit and vulgar discussions on India's Got Latent. Notably, FIRs have been registered against these influencers in Mumbai and Guwahati. (ANI)
The Supreme Court on Monday issued a notice to the Centre on a PIL challenging the blocking of social media accounts/posts without issuing notice to the account holder who uploaded the post. A bench of Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih sought the Centre's response within six weeks on the Software Freedom Law Centre's plea, which said that intermediaries like X (formerly Twitter) often take down tweets on government directions without informing the account owner. Senior advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for the petitioner, said that while the government has the power to take down information, notice should be given to the person who posted that tweet, and not doing so is a violation of the principles of natural justice. The law as it stands today mandates that notice should be issued to the person or the intermediary, she added. The bench, while hearing the case, said it is prima facie of the opinion that if there is an identifiable person behind the post, then he/she should be heard before taking down the concerned post. The petitioner has challenged certain rules of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking for Access of Information by Public) Rules, 2009. Jaising clarified that the petitioner's challenge is not to the state's power to order taking down of certain posts/information in exercise of power under Section 69A of the IT Act, but rather to the non-issuance of notice to a person who has apparently put the subject information in the public domain. (ANI)
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Monday lashed out at West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for alleging manipulation in the electoral process. Athawale stated that the Election Commission worked in its own way, and it was wrong for Mamata Banerjee to call the Election Commission a 'mynah in a cage'. Speaking to ANI, Athawale said, "The Election Commission works in its own way. Those whose names are not on the voter's list have the full right to register their names.... Mamata Banerjee is a senior leader, and it is not right for her to make such allegations and call the Election Commission a 'mynah in a cage'." Earlier, the West Bengal Chief Electoral officer also refuted claims of manipulation in the electoral process. The West Bengal CEO posted on X and said, "As per RP Act 1950, Registration of Electors Rules 1960 and Manual on Electoral Rolls, concerned BLOs, AEROs, EROs, DEOs and CEOs in any State/UT work for the updation of Electoral Rolls." "This is done with active participation of Booth Level Agents appointed by political parties. Any specific claim or objections are to be made first before the concerned 80,633 BLOs, 3,049 AEROs and 294 EROs in West Bengal," the CEO said. This comes after CM Mamata Banerjee formed a committee last month to check the irregularities in the voter's list in every district of West Bengal. She alleged that the "BJP added fake voters" to the voters' list to manipulate elections in Maharashtra and Delhi, and they were trying the same trick in West Bengal. "Sitting in the Election Commissioner's office, they have created a fake voter's list online, and in every district of West Bengal, fake voters have been added. Using this trick, they have won elections in Delhi and Maharashtra. The opposition in Maharashtra could not find out these facts. Most of the fake voters are from Haryana and Gujarat. BJP is manipulating voters list with the blessing of EC, Bengal's culture gave rise to independence," she said. The Chief Minister further appealed to the people of Bengal to check their voter list. "The actual names can be removed any day in the name of NRC and CAA. It has two main objectives. One is to defeat TMC and to remove the names of persons on the list. This is being done with the blessings of the EC. Keep a watch on data operators. If anyone is at the grassroots, then it is TMC. In the 2026 Assembly polls, we have to hit the ball harder, and this would start from the voter's list. This has to be done at the booth level. District president would have to take care of this," she said. She further said that an IT Media cell, panchayat councillors, and a core committee will be formed to access the voters' list. (ANI)
BJP leader Nishikant Dubey sounded the alarm on the demographic changes in Santhal Pargana, Jharkhand, on Monday, claiming that the tribal population has decreased from 45% to 28%, while the Muslim population has increased from 9% to 24%. Speaking with ANI, Dubey said, "The tribal population in Santhal Pargana has decreased from 45% to 28%. The population of Muslims has increased from 9% to 24%." He alleged that this surge is partly due to the influx of "Bangladeshi infiltrators," which he believes is being facilitated by the government's appeasement policies. "Bangladeshi infiltrators are increasing. The layers of what the government is doing to appease them are getting exposed," said Nishikant. Dubey's concerns extend to the education sector, where he claimed that Urdu has replaced regional languages in many schools, and Friday has become a holiday instead of Sunday. He feared that if the Center didn't intervene, Jharkhand might eventually become part of Bangladesh. "I had recently raised the issue in the House that Urdu has been written in many schools of Jharkhand and Friday is the holiday instead of Sunday... I think the Center should intervene in this; otherwise, the situation in Jharkhand is such that one day they will merge it with Bangladesh," Dubey added. This isn't the first time Dubey has raised concerns about the rising Muslim population in Jharkhand. In October 2024, he termed it a "national issue" and demanded the preparation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to identify and deport "Bangladeshi infiltrators." The issue of the illegal immigrants in Jharkhand was among the main agendas of the BJP during the Assembly elections in the state held in November last year. BJP in-charge for the state and Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma kept on raising the issue openly. However, it didn't work out for the BJP, as the Hemant Soren-led INDIA alliance was able to win 54 seats out of 81 and retained power for the second time in a row. BJP could only win 21 seats, despite roping in former Chief Minister Champai Soren in their camp, who is regarded as among the biggest tribal leaders of the state. (ANI)
India's first-ever riverine dolphin estimation report has revealed 6,327 dolphins across 28 rivers in eight states. Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest number, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the report during his visit to Gir National Park in Gujarat, where he chaired the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife. "During the meeting, Prime Minister released the report of the first-ever riverine dolphin estimation conducted in the country, which estimated a total of 6,327 dolphins. This pioneering effort involved surveying 28 rivers across eight states, with 3150 mandays dedicated to covering over 8,500 kilometres," the environment ministry said in a statement. The ministry said Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest numbers, followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam. India's inaugural riverine dolphin population survey, conducted under Project Dolphin, covered 8,500 kilometres across the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river systems over two years. In India, Ganges river dolphins inhabit the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna river system and its tributaries, while a small population of Indus river dolphins resides in the Indus River system. During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the importance of awareness of dolphin conservation through the involvement of the local population and villagers in the areas. He also advised organising exposure visits of school children in dolphin habitat areas. The National Board for Wildlife reviewed various government initiatives for wildlife conservation, highlighting achievements in the creation of new protected areas and species-specific flagship programs such as Project Tiger, Project Elephant, and Project Snow Leopard. The Board also discussed dolphin and Asiatic lion conservation, along with the establishment of the International Big Cats Alliance. During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone of the National Referral Centre for Wildlife at Junagadh. According to the ministry, "it will function as the hub for coordination and governance of various aspects related to wildlife health and disease management." The Prime Minister also announced the initiation of the 16th cycle of Asiatic lion estimation, scheduled for 2025. Highlighting the natural dispersal of lions into Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, he said, "Lion conservation in Barda will be supported through prey augmentation and other habitat improvement efforts." He also stressed the need for ease of travelling and connectivity for wildlife tourism to promote ecotourism. To strengthen human- wildlife conflict management, the Prime Minister announced "the establishment of a Centre of Excellence at Wildlife Institute of India--Campus in SACON (Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History), Coimbatore." This centre will assist states and Union Territories by equipping Rapid Response Teams with advanced technology, tracking gadgets, and surveillance systems to mitigate human- wildlife conflict. PM Modi further stressed the importance of leveraging technology in wildlife conservation, stating that aEURoeremote sensing, geospatial mapping, artificial Intelligence, and machine Learning should be used to combat forest fires and human-animal conflicts. He suggested that the Wildlife Institute of India work with the Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) to address these challenges. For enhanced forest fire monitoring, the Prime Minister advised collaboration between the Forest Survey of India, Dehradun, and BISAG-N to improve aEURoeprediction, detection, prevention, and control. Expanding India's wildlife conservation initiatives, he announced that "the Cheetah introduction will be expanded to other areas, including the Gandhisagar Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh and Banni Grasslands in Gujarat." Additionally, he introduced a scheme focused on the conservation of tigers outside protected reserves, stating that it aims to "address human-tiger and other co-predator conflicts in areas outside these reserves by ensuring co-existence with local communities." Recognizing the decline in gharial populations, the Prime Minister announced the initiation of a new Project on Gharials for their conservation. Similarly, he launched the National Great Indian Bustard Conservation Action Plan to scale up efforts to protect the endangered bird species. The Prime Minister also directed the Environment Ministry to gather traditional knowledge and manuscripts on forest and wildlife conservation for research and development. He emphasized that Gir is a success story of Lion and Leopard conservation and suggested that traditional conservation knowledge be documented using AI for use in other national parks and sanctuaries. Acknowledging India's growing network of community reserves, the Prime Minister stated that "over the past decade, India has witnessed more than sixfold increase in the number of community reserves." He also highlighted the role of advanced technologies, including AI, in wildlife conservation and advised further research on medicinal plants in forests, noting that plant-based medicine systems could play a crucial role in animal health management on a global scale. Following the meeting, he flagged off motorcycles for frontline forest staff and interacted with field-level personnel, including eco-guides, trackers, and forest staff at Gir. (ANI)
Glimpse of women empowerment was seen in the pre-budget consultation meeting organised to take suggestions for the budget 2025-26 in Sector-1, Panchkula today under the chairmanship of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, who is also the Finance Minister of the state. The Chief Minister first allowed women MLAs to speak and put forward their suggestions. Congress MLA Geeta Bhukkal spoke first. More than 25 MLAs gave suggestions in the first session of the meeting. The second session will be held tomorrow. The Opposition MLAs expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for continuing the tradition started by former Chief Minister Manohar Lal of inviting suggestions before the budget. A key feature of this meeting was that out of 90 MLAs, 40 MLAs have been elected for the first time in the 14th Vidhan Sabha and they expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for providing an open house platform to give suggestions in the budget. Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Chief Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Rajesh Khullar, besides Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and Heads of Departments of all departments were present in the meeting. All the officers noted the suggestions given by the MLAs. The Chief Minister assured to include the good suggestions in the budget. The Chief Minister said that even before this, pre-budget meetings have been organized in Faridabad, Gurugram, Panipat and Hisar. Last year, 407 suggestions were received, which were included in the budget. Apart from this, suggestions have also been taken from startups, young women entrepreneurs, women representatives, self-help groups, and about 10,000 suggestions have been received. He assured that the upcoming budget will meet the expectations of 2.80 crore people of the state. Apart from the budget, some MLAs also placed the demands of their area before the Chief Minister. In the meeting, the MLAs demanded to establish MLA Vikas Nidhi Fund and to increase the limit of demand for MLAs to Rs 5 crore in 5 years for development works in their area. (ANI)
A horrifying incident has come to light in Madhya Pradesh's Gwalior district, where a 17-year-old girl was allegedly held hostage and raped for five days by a man she had befriended two years ago. Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP, Crime Branch) Krishna Lalchandani told ANI, "We received a complaint at University police station in the district on March 1 in which a victim submitted a written application that she met with a youth during a wedding function in Jalaun district of Uttar Pradesh. After which she started talking to him and she was in contact with him for about 2 years, then their conversation stopped in between. Recently, the accused phoned her and called her to Jhansi." The accused had threatened to make a video of her viral if she didn't meet him, prompting her to travel to Jhansi, where the horrific crime took place. "The accused threatened her that if she fails, he will make her video viral. The victim alleged that as soon as she went to Jhansi, the accused raped her and forcibly kept her for 5 days. After that, when she returned to Gwalior, she told her parents about the entire incident," ASP Lalchandani said. The victim befriended the accused in a wedding function in the Jalaun district of Uttar Pradesh two years ago and has since started talking to each other. Their conversation had taken a pause in between, but recently, the accused phoned her to meet. When the girl refused to meet him, the accused threatened to make her video viral on the internet. Following which, out of fear, the girl agreed and reached Jhansi to meet him. The accused held her hostage for five days and raped the minor. After returning from Jhansi, she gathered courage and narrated the incident to her parents. The victim mustered the courage to report the incident to her parents, who accompanied her to the University police station on March 1, 2025, to file a complaint against the accused. The police have registered an FIR under relevant sections, including the POCSO Act, and are investigating the matter further. Thereafter, on March 1, she and her parents approached the University police station in the district and lodged a complaint against the accused. (ANI)
The report on the Empowered Committee for capability enhancement of the Indian Air Force (IAF) presented by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh on Monday highlights key thrust areas and makes recommendations for the implementation in the short, medium and long-term to achieve the IAF's "desired capability enhancement goals". Singh presented the report to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. According to a release by the Ministry of Defence, the report has focused on the need to strengthen Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) in the aerospace sector while advocating for increased private sector involvement alongside Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Appreciating the committee's work, Rajnath Singh directed that the recommendations be followed up in a time-bound manner. The committee was formed on the directive of Defence Minister Singh, where the task was to examine key issues and prepare a "clear plan of action". It was chaired by the Defence Secretary and included the Vice Chief of Air Staff, Secretary (Defence Production), Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, and DG Acquisition as members, with the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff serving as Member Secretary. Earlier today, the Defence Minister called upon the people to contribute wholeheartedly to the welfare of soldiers and their families, terming it the national duty of every citizen while addressing the Armed Forces Flag Day Corporate Social Responsibility (AFFD CSR) Conclave in New Delhi. Rajnath Singh stated that India's soldiers always stand firm, vigilant and ready at the borders in difficult conditions to protect the country from all kinds of threats with courage and promptness."While the Government is committed to strengthening India's security apparatus and ensuring the welfare of its soldiers and their families, it is the nation's collective responsibility to come forward and support them in every way possible," Singh said. He asserted that CSR is not about a two percent contribution; it is a matter of heart-to-heart connection with the brave soldiers and their dependents. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday participated in the 'Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman -2024' ceremony organized by Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan and honored various litterateurs and linguists. Addressing the ceremony, CM Dhami said that the Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman ceremony symbolizes our literary tradition, creative consciousness, and deep respect for word-seekers. "This platform is dedicated to all those great personalities who have given direction to the society with their writings and given a new identity to the culture of Uttarakhand," the CM said. While honoring Subhash Pant with Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan, Uttarakhand's highest literary honor, he said that Pant is a source of inspiration for the entire Hindi literary world. The Chief Minister said that the litterateurs being honored have enriched the cultural and literary heritage of Uttarakhand through their creativity. "The land of Devbhoomi has always been a wonderful center of creativity, knowledge and culture, where the light of ideas has worked to inspire the society in every era," CM Dhami said. He said that the natural beauty of Uttarakhand inspires countless writers, poets and thinkers. From this state, Sumitranandan Pant ji connected the country and the world through words and Shailesh Matiyani ji got the honor of being called 'Premchand of the mountains'. CM Dhami said that literature is the real mirror of the society, which works to highlight its culture, values and ideas. "Writers are thinkers, guides and motivators of the society. Poets and creators also had an active participation in the freedom movement of India. Countless litterateurs associated with writing and creation have also contributed to the establishment of Uttarakhand," he said. He said that the state government is committed to the preservation and promotion of literature and culture. "Under this, excellent litterateurs are being honored in the state through awards like Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman, Sahitya Bhushan, Life Time Achievement," the CM said. The Chief Minister said that the state government is also giving grants to litterateurs for publishing books in various local languages, including Hindi. "The government has provided honorariums of Rs 01 lakh to 10 outstanding litterateurs in the year 2023, expanding it further to 21 new literary awards, including the Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan Award, that have been announced in the year 2024. Along with this, it has also been decided to provide financial assistance to 45 writers," he added. The Chief Minister said that the state government is also making efforts to develop Uttarakhand as a center of literary tourism. "Two Sahitya Grams are being established by Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan, where facilities like residential facility, modern library, seminar room and study place will be developed for litterateurs. Indian literature has been holding a special place all over the world for centuries due to its ideological richness," he added. The Chief Minister said that cultural and literary heritage is being advanced in the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The state government is making concrete plans to preserve, compile and restore the scattered literature of the state through the Bhasha Sansthan. Along with this, the state government is making continuous efforts to preserve local languages and dialects," he said. On this occasion, the Chief Minister honoured Subhash Pant with Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan Award, Dr Dinesh Pathak with Sumitranandan Pant Award, Gopal Dutt Bhatt with Gumani Pant Award, Kulanand Ghansala with Bhajan Singh Award, Sunita Chauhan with Govind Chatak Award, Prof. Sagir Ullah with Unwan Chishti Award, Shama Khan with Gaura Pant 'Shivani' Award, Satish Dimri with Manglesh Dabral Award, Shashi Bhushan Badoni with Mahadevi Verma Award, Lalit Mohan Rayal with Shailesh Matiyani Award under Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman-2024. The Chief Minister also honoured Neeraj Kumar Naithani and Bahadur Bora with Dr Pitambar Dutt Badthwal Award, Mahendra Thukathi with Bandhu Award, Mohan Chandra Joshi with Sher Singh Bisht "Anpadh" Award, Virendra Panwar with Bhavanidatta Thapliyal Sati Award, Madan Mohan Duklan with Kanhaiyalal Dandariyaal Award, Dr Pawanesh Thakurati with Girish Tiwari "Girda" Award, Anoop Singh Rawat with Vidyasagar Nautiyal Award, and MR Dhyani with Bhairat Dutt Dhulia Award by giving them awards. (ANI)
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet on Monday in its meeting held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu approved the draft Governor's address to be delivered on the inaugural day of the 8th session of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha on March 10. The Cabinet gave its approval to table the report 2023-24 of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India in the budget session. The Cabinet also decided to create and fill 145 posts in different categories, including 66 posts in newly upgraded Municipal Corporations, 3 in newly upgraded Municipal Councils, 70 posts in newly created Nagar Panchayats, and six posts in the Directorate of Urban Development department. It did not create and fill two senior resident doctor posts in the department of Gastroenterology at Atal Institute of Medical Super Specialties, Chamiana, Shimla. The Cabinet approved the conversion of all the traditional Katha Bhatti'es into Katha Bhatti with IBR boilers, and they would mandatorily have to register with the Chief Inspector of Boilers of the State. IBR boilers would be allowed to process khairwood with bark in the range between 5435 to 7500 quintals in the entire year. (ANI)
Srinagar Police in Jammu and Kashie said they has arrested a drug dealer of New Delhi in connection with investigation of a drug peddling case wherein drugs were delivered by courier. In an official statement, police said that during the investigation of the narcotics case registered under FIR No 01/2025 U/S 8/21-29 NDPS Act in Karan Nagar Police station, involvement of Mohammad Zaid, resident of Okhla Vihar, Jamia Nagar, New Delhi surfaced, who was arrested in the instant case. Police have obtained his remand from the competent court. J&K Police reiterates its commitment to go to the last mile and bring to justice anyone and everyone involved in drug peddling be he or she in any part of the world, it added. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday attached 14.8 kanals of land, valued at over Rs 28 lakh, belonging to three terrorists in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, an official said. The terrorists are presently operating from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), and the attachment of their properties was part of the efforts to tackle the terror ecosystem in the Union Territory, he said. The seized properties belong to Najab Din, Mohammad Latif, and Mohammad Bashir alias Tikka Khan, who have fled to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and are actively engaged in promoting terrorism, disturbing peace and threatening social harmony in Poonch and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir. (ANI)
Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Azmi on Monday defended his remarks regarding Aurangzeb, saying that the Mughal emperor also destroyed Mosques along with temples. Refuting the claims that Aurangzeb was 'anti-Hindu', Azmi stated that the emperor had 34 per cent of Hindus in his administration and many of his advisors were Hindus. He further added that there was no need to give a communal angle to the issue. "If Aurangzeb Rahmatullah Alaih had destroyed temples, he also destroyed mosques. Had he been against Hindus, 34 per cent of Hindus would not have been with him (in his administration), and his advisors would not have been Hindus. It is true that India was a golden sparrow during his rule. There is no need to give Hindu-Muslim angles to it," Azmi told ANI. The SP MLA further said that the struggle for power and property carried out by kings in the past "was not religious". Azmi maintained that he hasn't made any remarks against "Hindu brothers". "The kings back then used to struggle for power and property, but it was nothing religious. He (Aurangzeb) ruled for 52 years, and if he was really converting Hindus into Muslims - imagine the number of Hindus that would have converted. In the 1857 rebellion, when Mangal Pandey started the fight, it was Bahadur Shah Zafar who supported him," Azmi said. "This country will run by the constitution, and I haven't said a word against Hindu brothers," he added. Earlier, Azmi reportedly said that Aurangzeb was not a "cruel administrator" and "built many temples". He added that the battle between the Mughal emperor and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was for state administration and not about Hindu and Muslim. This remark drew a lot of flak. Calling Azmi's reported remarks about Aurangzeb "wrong and unacceptable," Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday said that he should be charged with "treason." "His statement is wrong and should be condemned. Aurangzeb tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for 40 days; calling such a person good is the biggest sin, and hence, Abu Azmi should apologise. Our CM has taken this matter seriously. He should be charged with treason," Shinde told reporters. (ANI)
The legal formalities of handing over the dead body of the Pak intruder to Ramdas police station are being carried out, the PRO added.

According to the statement, "On 03rd Mar' 2025, during the morning hours, alert BSF troops on duty observed suspicious movement of a Pakistani intruder, who surreptitiously crossed the IB (International Boundary) and started approaching the border security fence, taking advantage of undulating ground and wheat crops, in the border area near Village--Kotrazda of district Amritsar.

"Attentive BSF troops immediately challenged the intruder, but he did not stop his advance and started running towards the border security fence. Noticing his aggressive gesture, the troops on duty fired upon the advancing intruder in self-defence and neutralized him on the spot. On searching the area carefully, one Mobile phone was recovered from his possession," the PRO added.

Vigilant and dutiful BSF troops once again successfully foiled the nefarious intentions of the cross-border terror-syndicate to carry out this infiltration bid in the Indian territory from across the border, the PRO said. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday annoucned that the government will provide financial assistance to 45 writers this year and said it reflects our resolve towards the preservation of literature and culture. "Along with Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan, 21 new Sahitya awards were announced. This year, we have decided to provide financial assistance to 45 writers. This is not just financial assistance, but it is a symbol of our commitment, our resolve, our objective towards the preservation of literature and culture...," CM Dhami said. Earlier in the day, CM Dhami participated in the 'Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman -2024' ceremony organized by Uttarakhand Bhasha Sansthan and honored various litterateurs and linguists. Addressing the ceremony, CM Dhami said that the Uttarakhand Sahitya Gaurav Samman ceremony symbolizes our literary tradition, creative consciousness, and deep respect for word-seekers."This platform is dedicated to all those great personalities who have given direction to the society with their writings and given a new identity to the culture of Uttarakhand," the CM said. While honoring Subhash Pant with Uttarakhand Sahitya Bhushan, Uttarakhand's highest literary honor, he said that Pant is a source of inspiration for the entire Hindi literary world. The Chief Minister said that the litterateurs being honored have enriched the cultural and literary heritage of Uttarakhand through their creativity. "The land of Devbhoomi has always been a wonderful center of creativity, knowledge and culture, where the light of ideas has worked to inspire the society in every era," CM Dhami said. He said that the natural beauty of Uttarakhand inspires countless writers, poets and thinkers. From this state, Sumitranandan Pant ji connected the country and the world through words and Shailesh Matiyani ji got the honor of being called 'Premchand of the mountains'. CM Dhami said that literature is the real mirror of the society, which works to highlight its culture, values and ideas. "Writers are thinkers, guides and motivators of the society. Poets and creators also actively participated in India's freedom movement. Countless litterateurs associated with writing and creation have also contributed to the establishment of Uttarakhand," he said. (ANI)
Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Monday said that Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University is contributing immensely to quality higher education in the state as it is working whole-heartedly in promoting access to higher education for the students belonging to remote areas and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Addressing the students at the 7th convocation of the university at its campus at Resham Nagar in Khanapara in Guwahati, the Governor said that close to the mandate of NEP 2020 for achieving 50 per cent Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education by 2035, Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University is playing a pivotal role in achieving this goal. The Governor expressed happiness over the fact that over 50 per cent of the university's students come from rural backgrounds, which reflects its commitment to making higher education more accessible. He also commended the institution's flexible learning programs that have allowed students to balance their education with family and job responsibilities. The Governor on the occasion while paying rich tributes to the founder of the university Krishna Kanta Handiqui, said that the legacy of this erudite personality lives on through the institution established in his honor. Acharya during his address also said that the broader purpose of education is to help the students gain wisdom in all aspects of life. "Education opens the doors to immense opportunities. Using those opportunities thus gained our students must strive to become job creators rather than job seekers, and contribute to the progress of the nation," the Governor said. The Governor also highlighted Assam's rich historical and cultural heritage as a land of knowledge. "This sacred land has given birth to Srimanta Sankardeva, a revered scholar whose spiritual and intellectual propriety have shaped cultural and educational landscape of the state," he said. Acharya also underscored the broader purpose of education, stating, "Education is not just about books; it is about gaining wisdom in all aspects of life. It opens the doors to immense opportunities." He said that since convocation is regarded as an event recognizing the achievement of the students at the culmination of an academic programme it is therefore, a milestone for each student, celebrating years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. The Governor on the occasion also spoke about the importance of inner motivation, commitment, and consistency in achieving success, highlighting that the pursuit of knowledge goes beyond material comforts. Among the 516 students who received degrees, the Governor expressed his satisfaction that 275 were female students. "More than half of the gold medallists are girls, which is a testimony to the continuous progress of women in education and other fields," he added. The Governor also acknowledged the university's efforts to make study materials available in Assamese, supporting the National Education Policy's emphasis on promoting Indian languages in education. Governor Acharya encouraged the graduates to use their knowledge to lead India towards its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. It may be mentioned that a total of 12,463 degrees and diplomas awarded today, include 17 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 1,618 undergraduate degrees, 10,827 postgraduate degrees, and one postgraduate diploma. It is noteworthy that 58.3 per cent of the awardees are female students. (ANI)
Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske on Monday filed a case against Samajwadi Party leader Abu Asim Azmi over his statement on Aurangzeb and said that he has "no right to stay in India." "A sedition case should be filed against Abu Azmi. He has no right to stay in India. Aurangzeb who destroyed thousands of Hindu temples, tortured women, brutally tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, was against the country, he looted our country...our leader Eknath Shinde has demanded this morning itself that a sedition case should be filed against him. Today we have come here to file a sedition case against him," Mhaske told reporters. The Shiv Sena MP arrived at Wagle Estate Police Station to file a case against Abu Asim Azmi. Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC suggested the SP leader take a history lesson and said that he seems to have forgotten that Aurangzeb destroyed thousands of Hindu temples. "Abu Azmi should take a history lesson. He seems to have forgotten that it is the same Aurangzeb who destroyed thousands of Hindu temples, including the Trimbakeshwar temple and the temple next to the Kashi Vishwanath temple. He also ordered the destruction of the Jagannath temple... So please, Abu Azmi, stop doing your petty vote bank politics, you are hurting the sentiments of Hindus with this ignorant statement," Shaina NC said. After the uproar over his remarks, Abu Azmi defended his remarks regarding Aurangzeb, saying that the Mughal emperor also destroyed Mosques along with temples. Refuting the claims that Aurangzeb was 'anti-Hindu', Azmi stated that the emperor had 34 per cent of Hindus in his administration and many of his advisors were Hindus. He further added that there was no need to give a communal angle to the issue. "If Aurangzeb Rahmatullah Alaih had destroyed temples, he also destroyed mosques. Had he been against Hindus, 34 per cent of Hindus would not have been with him (in his administration), and his advisors would not have been Hindus. It is true that India was a golden sparrow during his rule. There is no need to give Hindu-Muslim angles to it," Azmi told ANI. The SP MLA further said that the struggle for power and property carried out by kings in the past "was not religious". Azmi maintained that he hasn't made any remarks against "Hindu brothers". "The kings back then used to struggle for power and property, but it was nothing religious. He (Aurangzeb) ruled for 52 years, and if he was really converting Hindus into Muslims - imagine the number of Hindus that would have converted. In the 1857 rebellion, when Mangal Pandey started the fight, it was Bahadur Shah Zafar who supported him," Azmi said. "This country will run by the constitution, and I haven't said a word against Hindu brothers," he added. Earlier, Azmi reportedly said that Aurangzeb was not a "cruel administrator" and "built many temples". He added that the battle between the Mughal emperor and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj was for state administration and not about Hindu and Muslim. This remark drew a lot of flak. Calling Azmi's reported remarks about Aurangzeb "wrong and unacceptable," Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday said that he should be charged with "treason." "His statement is wrong and should be condemned. Aurangzeb tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for 40 days; calling such a person good is the biggest sin, and hence, Abu Azmi should apologise. Our CM has taken this matter seriously. He should be charged with treason," Shinde told reporters. (ANI)
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday said that the state is working to fill out additional posts needed to implement three new criminal laws in the state after Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed a meeting for the same. He further stated that the state was working to share the best practices on criminal laws with Union Minister Amit Shah. Speaking to the media, the CM said "Union Minister Amit Shah has suggested things related to e-Nyay and e-Summons that we will implement as soon as possible. We will also fill out a few additional posts that are needed to implement the three new criminal laws in the state. We have also shared with him the best practices that Goa has implemented." As per a press release, the meeting held by the Home minister reviewed the implementation and present status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics in Goa. The meeting was attended by the Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Goa, the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), the Director, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the government of Goa, a statement from the release said. During the meeting, the Home Minister Amit Shah underlined that the primary objective of the three new criminal laws, introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is to ensure swift justice. He said that Goa should become a model state in effectively implementing three New Criminal Laws. Shah emphasized the importance of strictly adhering to timelines in investigation and prosecution to ensure speedy justice. He highlighted the need to achieve a 90 per cent conviction rate in criminal cases of having provision of more than seven years of punishment. The Home Minister also stressed the mandatory registration of all Investigation Officers (IOs) on the e-Sakshya platform and directed the full implementation of e-Summons in Goa by March 31, 2025. Union Home Minister reiterated that senior police officers must regularly monitor cases related to organized crime, terrorism, and mob lynching to prevent the misuse of relevant provisions. Permission from a Superintendent of Police-level officer should be taken before registering cases under these sections. Shah also directed the police to ensure that property recovered from criminals is returned to its rightful owners in accordance with the provisions of the new criminal laws. Shah stressed the need to achieve 100 per cent forensic sample testing and instructed strict adherence to this goal. He urged the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police of Goa to continuously review the implementation progress of the three new laws. (ANI)
Amid the ongoing uproar over the murder of Congress worker Himani Narwal, Savita, the mother of the deceased victim, on Monday expressed her dissatisfaction over police action while demanding the death penalty for the accused. She warned that she would die by suicide if the accused, Sachin, was not awarded the death penalty. Expressing dissatisfaction over police action in the case, she urged the administration to investigate the "main reason" for her daughter's death. "The main reason should be told to us. I am not satisfied with the police's actions. I want him (accused) to get the death penalty. If the accused is not given the death penalty, I will commit suicide, and the Haryana government and administration will be responsible for this," Savita Narwal told ANI. The mother also refuted the claims that her late daughter was "friends" with the accused, saying that Himani was a leader who stayed connected to people. Savita said that the accused was trying to cook up stories to save himself. "My daughter did not have close friendships with anyone. She was a leader, and she used to stay connected. He (the accused) was making up stories to save himself. I want the administration to tell me why my daughter was killed. Money cannot be the reason. If he (accused) killed her, then how can he be her friend?" Savita added. Her remarks come after ADGP Rohtak Range Krishan Kumar Rao said, "Accused Sachin, who runs a mobile shop in Jhajjar, has been arrested. The accused and the deceased had met through social media, and he used to visit her house. She used to stay alone in Vijay Nagar Rohtak. On February 27, he came to her house, and they had a fight over something, and he killed her with the help of a mobile charger cable." Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Manish Grover said, "We are saddened by this incident. The accused should get the harshest punishment. A person who kills daughters and girls in this manner should be hanged. Society will not tolerate this, and the law will not forgive him... If the family has any demand, I will raise this issue before the government." Following the arrest of one person in connection with the murder case of Congress worker Himani Narwal, whose body was found inside a suitcase in Rohtak, police on Monday said that they will take the remand of the accused and, after interrogation of the accused, will be done to ascertain details of the crime. On March 2, the Haryana Police arrested one accused in connection with the murder case of Congress worker Himani Narwal. Earlier today, the police said they had arrested Sachin from Delhi. "The accused was already married. His family was not aware of the deceased," ADGP Rohtak Range said. Following the arrest, the brother of the deceased on Monday demanded the death penalty for the accused. Speaking to ANI, Himani Narwal's brother, Jatin, said, "One accused has been arrested, and today we will cremate her (Himani Narwal). A lot of rumours are being spread in the media. I request that the media not spread misinformation. We will get justice. We still don't know who the accused is; the police have not given us any information. We want the death penalty for the accused," Jatin said. The uncle of Himani Narwal also demanded justice. "Whoever the accused is, we want justice. Till the time the identity of the accused is revealed, we will not cremate her. We have had no contact with the police," Ravinder said. "The election and the party took my daughter's life. Because of this, she made some enemies. These (the culprits) could be from the party, could be her friends as well," the mother of the deceased Congress worker earlier alleged. (ANI)
The Congress on Monday accused the BJP of manipulating voter lists in connivance with the Election Commission and said the party will seek remedy to the issue through legal, political and other means. In a statement, the EAGLE group (Empowered Action Group of Leaders and Experts), set up by the party, alleged that there has been "deliberate act of voter list manipulation to aid the ruling party" and that "BJP wins or attempts to win elections by manipulating voter lists". It said there are some startling developments on the issue of voter list manipulation that have surfaced and there is a "grave danger to the very idea of India as an electoral democracy".. "The same voter ID number is being used for several voters, both from the same constituency in the same state as well as from other states. This is utterly shocking. A unique voter id for every Indian voter is the fundamental requirement and premise of a clean voter list. Multiple voters having the same voter ID number is as bizarre as multiple vehicles bearing the same registration number in the country. It is unheard of in any electoral democracy," the party said. The statement said the Congress had pointed out "huge irregularities and abnormalities in voter lists" in the Maharashtra 2024 assembly election. "It is both a logical and statistical absurdity that the Election Commission registered more new net voters (40 lakh) in five months between the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections in 2024 than they did in the entire five-year period between 2019 and 2024 (32 lakh)," the statement said. "This was substantiated through ground reports in some constituencies where thousands of voters were added to the rolls from just one building or brought in from other states. It was further shown that suspiciously, most of these new voters enrolled seem to have voted only for the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra, thereby tilting the eventual outcome in their favour," the statement added. The party said Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi raised this issue on the floor of the Lok Sabha and demanded the voter lists of Maharashtra. Opposition parties in Maharashtra had held a joint press conference on the issue. "The Election Commission's stoic silence has only lent credence to their complicity in voter list manipulation," the Congress said. The statement said that when confronted with proof of the same voter ID number being used by multiple voters, the Election Commission initially responded by claiming that a voter ID number may be the same across states, but it is unique to a particular state. "Even that turned out to be a blatant lie as there are cases of the same voter id number used by several voters in the same state and in the same constituency. After this was pointed out, there has been pin drop silence," the statement added. The party said it is elementary knowledge that a person who can legally migrate to any state of the country must have a unique voter id number throughout the country. "The Election Commission cannot feign ignorance or incompetence in this matter. It is a deliberate act of voter list manipulation to aid the ruling party and thwart the idea of free and fair elections," the statement said. "The cover is now blown. It is clear that the ruling BJP wins or attempts to win elections by manipulating voter lists in connivance with the Election Commission. Which is why the process of appointment of the Election Commissioners is so critical to the Narendra Modi government that it subverted a Supreme Court ruling to have a balanced committee to appoint Election Commissioners," it added. The Congress said it will not let this issue fade away and is actively working on seeking remedy through legal, political, legislative and any other means. "This is a grave danger to the very idea of India as an electoral democracy. This transcends political parties and politics. Babasaheb Ambedkar fought for the setting up of an independent Election Commission to precisely resist this urge of executive interference in elections," the statement said. (ANI)
Union Women and Child Development Minister Annpurna Devi on Monday met Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and expressed happiness over the national capital getting a woman Chief Minister. She said that central government's schemes would be implemented in the national capital. She said that the BJP government in Delhi would work for the development and would live up to the faith shown by people. "The people of Delhi expressed their faith in the Bharatiya Janata Party and now we have a double-engine government in Delhi and the happiest thing is that we have a woman Chief Minister, so she came to meet us today and this double-engine government will work for development and the government will live up to the faith shown by the people of Delhi," Devi told ANI. The Union Minister accused the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of not implementing the scheme introduced by the central government, saying that the same would be implemented. "The schemes being run by the central government were not being implemented by the previous AAP government. Those will be implemented. We discussed many issues," Devi said. Earlier, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said on Monday that the budget for 'Viksit Delhi' will be presented in the assembly between March 24 and 26, in which the government will strive to take suggestions from all sections of the society. Addressing a press conference, Chief Minister Gupta emphasised that the budget will be a 'Viksit Delhi' budget, prioritising Delhi's development. Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Delhi assembly Atishi claimed on Sunday that as soon as the AAP MLAs raised the issue of Rs 2,500 payout for women in the House, their microphones were "switched off", and they were subsequently "thrown out." The Kalkaji MLA pointed out that lakhs of rupees are spent daily to run the House and reminded the BJP of its commitment to delivering on the work front rather than always abusing Arvind Kejriwal. (ANI)
Replying to a query from BJP MLA Terash Gowalla, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma who also holds the Home department on Monday said in the state assembly that, from 2016 to February 23 of this year, drugs worth Rs 3,989.71 crore seized in the state.

"During the period, Assam police seized 1614.94 kg of heroin worth Rs 1230.01 crore, 472.30 kg of brown sugar worth Rs 944.63 crore, 1.62 lakh kg of ganja worth Rs 811.23 crore, 1.86 crore numbers of tablets worth Rs 745.43 crore, 14.13 lakh bottles of cough syrup worth Rs 95.49 crore," the Assam Chief Minister said.

According to the report of the state government, during the period, 1.52 lakh bottles of phensedyl, 2870.10 kg of morphine, 709.90 kg of opium, 2.092 kg of cocaine, 35 kg of afim, 20.96 kg of crystal methampetamine, 10.59 kg of raw opium, 978.60 kg of cannabis plant were also seized.

This year till February 23, police seized 14.40 kg of heroin, 2222.78 kg of ganja, 55 kg of opium, 4.19 lakh numbers of tablets, 15,539 bottles of cough syrup.

The Assam government has taken up various measures to aware the people against drugs across the state. Assam CM has vowed to make Assam as a drugs free state. (ANI)
The government is considering changes to immigration laws for residents of Hong Kong and Macau to prevent influence from China, Taipei Times reported. According to a source, the government may remove an optional path to citizenship for these residents and extend the time required for them to qualify for permanent residency. The proposed changes aim to prevent the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from influencing Taiwan through immigration from Hong Kong and Macau, as per Taipei Times. An official familiar with the matter speaking on condition of anonymity said the government could amend immigration laws for residents of the territories who currently receive preferential treatment. The move was part of "national security-related legislative reform," they added. Under the proposed amendments, individuals from Hong Kong and Macau would need to live in Taiwan for four years before being eligible for permanent residency, up from the current one-year requirement. Additionally, they would no longer be able to apply for citizenship after gaining permanent residency, the official said. According to the source, the proposal was being considered in response to the changing situation in Hong Kong, to which more than two million mainland Chinese have migrated since the 1997 handover of the territory, the source said. According to Taipei Times, Taiwan's relaxed immigration policies for Hong Kongers have become a major national security loophole, especially after Beijing imposed the territory's National Security Law in 2020, which significantly altered Hong Kong's landscape and enhanced the authorities' power, they said. "Whether they arrived through marriage with a Taiwanese, investment immigration or obtained residency through a professional skill, Hong Kong migrants almost always apply for permanent residence in the second year," they said. "No country in the world has an immigration policy like Taiwan, with such relaxed terms," they added. Higlighting the strict rules, the official stated, under the proposed amendments, residency applicants from Hong Kong or Macau who have worked for the CCP, the Chinese military or Chinese public institutions would be strictly scrutinised and potentially have their applications denied. "The original purpose behind allowing Hong Kong and Macau residents to easily apply for permanent residency in Taiwan is no longer applicable given the changes to those territories caused by CCP policies," they said. The government's proposed changes to immigration laws would align the rules for Hong Kong and Macau residents with those for immigrants from other countries. However, the new rules would still be more lenient than those for applicants from mainland China, who must stay in Taiwan for six years before applying for a national ID card. The option of "long-term residence" for applicants from the two territories is similar to the permanent residency option available to other foreigners, with the key exception being that the "long-term residence" option does not allow a path to citizenship, the source said. "We have found that some migrants from Hong Kong and Macau are not interested in Republic of China citizenship anyway, and only want some form of permanent residence. So, we do not anticipate the change being a problem," they said. Authorities would review the proposal, and would communicate with Hong Konger groups in Taiwan before amending the laws, they said. (ANI)
A US think tank has raised concerns that China is using transnational criminal organisations to push its political agenda in Palau, potentially damaging the island nation's diplomatic relations with Taiwan, Taipei Times reported. According to a report by Pacific Economics, Transnational criminal organisations have been investing in Palau, which is one of the tactics China uses to exert influence on the island nation, alongside initiatives in areas such as academia, business and culture. Further, the report said, one of the crime syndicates is the Prince Group, a Chinese-Cambodian conglomerate founded by Chinese businessman Chen Zhi, as per Taipei Times. The group has been implicated in money laundering, online scams and human trafficking, drawing scrutiny from the Chinese government and Radio Free Asia, it said. According to Taipei Times, the Prince Group has also proposed investing over USD 1 billion in resort developments in Palau. The report further noted that many recent hotel investments in Palau are linked to China. Pacific Economics advises Palau to focus on identifying and preventing harmful business activities while promoting positive investments, such as those from Taiwan in the hotel sector, Australia in solar power projects, and the US in infrastructure development. Although Palau formally recognises Taiwan and does not follow the "One China" policy, criminal organisations can help Beijing fill the gaps in areas where China's foreign ministry's efforts might fall short, Pacific Economics cofounder Jarod Baker said on Saturday. The crime syndicates "are used to covertly bring in money, people and other elements," he said. While China employs various methods to influence other countries, business remains its primary tool for advancing its strategic goals, he said. The Island Times, a Palauan newspaper, cited the report as warning that the infiltration of criminal enterprises into Palau's economy could deter legitimate investors, damaging the country's investment reputation and tourism industry. China-affiliated projects seeking to secure land and infrastructure could also undermine Palau's sovereignty and disrupt its strategic role in the Pacific, the Island Times quoted the think tank as saying. In Taipei, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement said that the PRC has used Chinese business people and criminal organisations with Chinese backgrounds to infiltrate Palau for many years under the guise of land development and investments. The ministry said those criminal rings are engaging in money laundering, gambling, fraud and other illicit activities to economically infiltrate and coerce Palau, for which it issued a "stern condemnation." In its statement, the ministry contrasted Taiwan's engagement with Palau against China's, saying it has worked closely with Palau by encouraging Taiwanese businesses to invest in the Pacific ally, boosting "more prosperous development of Palauan businesses." Palauan President Surangel Whipps Jr, who began his second term in January, has been supportive of Taiwan since he first took office in 2021 and has repeatedly accused China of pressuring Palau to switch sides by weaponising tourism. (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Ukraine is "ready to sign" a minerals agreement with the United States, describing it as the "first step toward security guarantees." https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1895793627164471777 Sharing a post on X, he wrote, "We are ready to sign the minerals agreement, and it will be the first step toward security guarantees. But it's not enough, and we need more than just that." "A ceasefire without security guarantees is dangerous for Ukraine. We've been fighting for 3 years, and Ukrainian people need to know that America is on our side," he added. This came a day after Zelenskyy's tense exchange with US President Donald Trump at the White House and cut short a visit to Washington on Friday (local time), world leaders offered a strong show of support to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and promised to do more to help his nation. Earlier in the day, he also met Britain's King Charles III at Sandringham House. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1896321455606173969 In a post on X, he expressed gratitude and wrote, "I am grateful to His Majesty King Charles III for the audience." https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1896205665129120036 He also met the Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to develop a joint action plan for ending the war with a just and lasting peace. In a post on X, he described the meeting as "productive," adding that "No one other than Putin is interested in the continuation and quick return of the war." "Therefore, it is important to maintain unity around Ukraine and strengthen our country's position in cooperation with our allies - the countries of Europe and the United States. Ukraine needs peace backed by robust security guarantees. I am grateful to Italy for its continued support and partnership in bringing peace in Ukraine closer," he added. (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed strong appreciation for the support Ukraine has received during a European leaders summit in London on Sunday (local time) focused on Ukraine's future and its relationship with Europe. In a post on X, he emphasised the united stance Europe has taken in supporting Ukraine's independence and security. "The summit in London was dedicated to Ukraine and our shared European future. We feel strong support for Ukraine, for our people - both soldiers and civilians, and our independence," he wrote on X. Zelenskyy further highlighted the high level of unity within Europe, noting that it had not been seen in a long time. "Together, we are working in Europe to establish a solid foundation for cooperation with the United States in pursuit of true peace and guaranteed security. Europe's unity is at an exceptionally high level, one that has not been seen in a long time. We are discussing with our partners security guarantees and the conditions for a just peace for Ukraine," he said. "A series of important meetings and decisions are being prepared for the near future," Zelenskyy added, expressing gratitude to the global community for their efforts in supporting a stable and guaranteed peace for Ukraine. "I am grateful to all our friends and partners for their efforts in bringing about a stable and guaranteed peace in Ukraine. Joint strength can protect our future," he said. During the summit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, "This is not a moment for more talk. It's time to act," after a monumental day of diplomacy in London, which saw leaders on the continent attempt to forge a path towards a ceasefire in Ukraine, CNN reported. The urgency of the summit in London's ornate Lancaster House was heightened after US President Donald Trump chastised Zelensky in the Oval Office, appalling the West and delighting Moscow in the process. Zelensky and an ensemble of European leaders were in attendance, at a moment of intense anxiety in the conflict. According to CNN, Starmer told reporters he was working with France and a small number of other nations to craft a plan to stop the fighting, which would then be presented to the US. (ANI)
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) has detected 10 Chinese aircraft, six naval vessels and four official ship operating around the island as of 6 am (UTC+8) on Monday. Among them, nine aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern and southeastern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). https://x.com/MoNDefense/status/1896364908566229362 Sharing a post on X, MND wrote, "10 PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 4 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 9 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern and southeastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly." https://x.com/MoNDefense/status/1896003178799514042 On Sunday, Taiwan MND detected 11 Chinese aircraft and 6 vessels and 3 official ships around its territory around the island. "11 PLA aircraft, 6 PLAN vessels and 3 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 5 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's central, southwestern and southeastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly," Taiwan MND wrote on X. In recent weeks, China has been visibly boosting its ability to invade Taiwanese beaches with innovative new naval equipment. This includes the formal launching of an enormous landing helicopter assault (LHA) vessel, the likes of which no other navy in the world possesses, and the mass production of floating bridge docks to assist the unloading of ships during beach landings. Both types of equipment are strong indications that China is serious about one day invading Taiwan. The Taiwan-China issue is a complex and longstanding geopolitical conflict centred on Taiwan's sovereignty. Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), operates its own government, military, and economy, functioning as a de facto independent state. However, China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and insists on the "One China" policy, which asserts that there is only one China, with Beijing as its capital. This has fuelled decades of tension, especially since the Chinese Civil War (1945-1949), when the ROC government retreated to Taiwan after the Communist Party, led by Mao Zedong, took control of mainland China. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], March 3 (ANI/TPS): The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) reported that, earlier on Sunday, an Israel Air Force aircraft attacked two suspects in the southern Gaza Strip who were spotted near IDF forces and posed a threat to them. The IDF is again calling on the residents of Gaza to obey the IDF's instructions, not to approach the forces deployed in the area and to pass through the agreed checkpoints. (ANI/TPS)
Pakistani passengers en route from Sydney to Pakistan have been stuck in Bangkok for the past two days after a technical issue with a Thai Airways flight, ARY News reported. Passengers were initially left waiting for six hours at the Bangkok airport, hoping for an alternative flight, as per the reports. However, when no arrangements were made, Thai Airways cancelled the scheduled flight, leaving travellers in distress, as per ARY News. The airline provided accommodation at a hotel located about an hour and a half from the airport, but the lack of proper facilities there added to the passengers' hardships. According to ARY News, many passengers also missed their connecting flights due to the airline's mismanagement. Now stranded in Bangkok, the affected passengers have appealed to Pakistani authorities for assistance. Meanwhile, Karachi-based airline Fly Jinnah is set to operate Dhaka-Karachi flights soon, Bangladeshi government officials said on Monday. After the launch of a direct shipping line between Chittagong in Bangladesh and Karachi in Pakistan, a direct air link between the two countries will be launched soon, they said. "Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB) has approved a proposal of Fly Jinnah to operate direct flights between Bangladesh and Pakistan", said Abdul Naser Khan, Additional Secretary to Bangladesh's Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism. "We will sign a deal to resume Dhaka-Karachi direct flights", he told ANI, without elaborating. Recently, Bangladesh signed a deal with Pakistan to import 50,000 tonnes of rice, the officials said. Bangladesh's interim government had earlier lifted the visa restrictions against Pakistan. In January, Bangladesh's High Commissioner to Pakistan Iqbal Hussain Khan said, "Now the relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh have started a new era. The relations are going to be strengthened in multidimensional ways. The direct flights between the two countries have not yet been established. But it is a demand of the people of both the countries. "Khan also mentioned that Bangladeshi patients have begun travelling to Pakistan for medical treatment, further boosting people-to-people connections. (ANI)
Tesla CEO and Head of Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) Elon Musk and United States President Donald Trump reached the White House late on Sunday night (local time). Musk accompanied by his mother Maye were earlier guests of the President at his estate in Mar-a-Lago Florida. Elon Musk accompanied the President aboard the Presidential helicopter on his return to the White House. His son X and his mother were also seen alighting from the helicopter. As he got off the chopper Musk carried his son on his shoulders while they both waved to the media. Earlier, when Elon's son visited the white house, it caused the President to remove the iconic Resolute Desk from the Oval office. The New York Post had reported then, that President Trump ordered the iconic Resolute Desk removed from the Oval Office for refurbishment after Elon Musk's 4-year-old son, X, appeared to pick his nose and rub the desk on live TV last week. Musk junior whose full name is X AE A-12, fidgeted, babbled and, at times, wandered around when he appeared in the Oval Office with his father and Trump during a joint Question and Answer session about the work of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the New York Post reported. Earlier, on March 1, Musk welcomed his 14th child, this time with partner Shivon Zilis, as they celebrated the arrival of their fourth child together. Zilis took to her X account to announce the birth of their fourth child, 'Seldon Lycurgus'. However, she did not reveal when the baby was born. In her post, she wrote, "Discussed with Elon, and in light of beautiful Arcadia's birthday, we felt it was better to also just share directly about our wonderful and incredible son, Seldon Lycurgus. Built like a juggernaut, with a solid heart of gold. Love him so much." Musk responded to her post with a simple red heart emoji. Meanwhile, during President Trump's first Cabinet Meeting on February 27, Musk said he was a "tech support," and donned a T-Shirt that said 'tech support' and a cap that said 'Make America Great Again', a tagline used by Republicans. As he first stood up to speak, Musk said he was "tech support" and said DOGE was doing lots of work to "fix the government computer systems." He later added that he had received "a lot of death threats," over the work he has been doing, which has involved hundreds of people losing their jobs, CNN reported. (ANI)
Several people stood outside the White House on Sunday, calling for justice for Ukraine. The supporters rallied in the wake of a heated exchange between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump last week. The crowd was seen waving Ukraine's flag while chanting slogans in support of Ukraine. Many of them told ANI they were outraged by Friday's meeting in the Oval Office, which was cut short with Zelenskyy being asked to leave the White House. In support of Ukraine, a woman said, "I am out here because Ukraine has been a loyal ally. They gave up their nuclear weapons because we made them to. That made them vulnerable to an evil enemy. Who attacked without provocation and we have stood by them until recently. Our behaviour is disgraceful. I need to do everything to demonstrate my support. I am here, and others are here to demonstrate and change that behaviour. Because as of Friday, the Interview with Zelenskyy, I have never been so embarrassed being an American in my life. So if I can do something showing that the character of American people hasn't changed, I am doing that" A Ukrainian citizen said, "I am here today to thank my American friends for standing with Ukraine after everything that happened in the Oval office. We want this support to continue. We want to find a way to negotiate. We want the support of the US and Europe to get lasting peace; otherwise, Russia will rearm and reinvade again, and all our efforts to make this peace negotiation with Russia will go in vain, without security guarantees." She further added, "Basically, when everything happened, me and my fellow Ukrainians were sending our greeting to the US president, as he was support and sign a deal. Ukraine is actually ready for negotiations. We need peace more than anyone as we have lost so many people, and we don't want to lose more. We want our kids, POWs to return. We want them to leave our territory, and then there will be peace" The future of the United States' support for Ukraine stands fluid after the high-profile meeting between Zelenskyy and Trump failed to reach any conclusion. Trump supporters viewt the encounter differently, saying it was a necessary show of American power toward an ungrateful ally. A man in support of US President Trump's said, "Actually, I agree with Trump. Ukrainians like to come and bully people. We have been bullied too much by them. They use fear of Putin for us to be sympathetic to them. Look at all these people out here. We have Americans who are losing their benefits and jobs, but we are paying pensions and social securities in Ukraine. Ukrainians in America live better than other Americans. And you want to me to stand with them. No, he got just what he deserved in that oval office. That's my opinion." Meanwhile, at a summit in London, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer told reporters he was working with France and a small number of other nations to craft a plan to stop the fighting, which would then be presented to Trump, CNN reported. The Ukranian President in turn expressed strong appreciation for the support Ukraine has received during a European leaders summit in London on Sunday (local time) focused on Ukraine's future and its relationship with Europe. (ANI)
A 47-year-old man from Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala, named Thomas Gabriel Pereira, was reportedly shot and killed by security forces in Jordan while attempting to illegally cross the border into Israel. Gabriel, who had travelled to Jordan on a tourist visa. He was accompanied by 43-year-old Edison, who was injured by a bullet during the incident. His family is now seeking financial assistance from the Indian mission Kin of Thomas Gabriel Periera, who died in Jordan, says, " My relative's son is in London and he is the one who called and informed me about this incident. We don't know what happened exactly. He left from here on 5th (February). On 9th (February), my sister received a call, it was just for 2 minutes. He just asked to pray for him and cut the call. Then we received an email and we got to know that he died after he was shot in the head and his body is lying at a government hospital there. He once worked in Kuwait for 5 years...he didn't say anything to his wife and anyone, he left silently. He called once he reached there and then only he told where he went to" Wife of Thomas Gabriel Periera, who died in Jordan, said, "Last time I received a call, he only spoke to me for 2 minutes. He just asked me to pray for him". Adoor Prakash, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha from Attingal, Kerala wrote a letter to EAM S Jaishanker stating, "Respected Dr. S. Jaishankar Ji, this is with reference to the attached email reply received from the Indian embassy in Jordan regarding the death of Mr. Thomas Gabriel Pereira. The family of the deceased is not in a position to bear the expense of transporting the mortal remains to India and is requesting financial assistance from the Indian mission. I request you to kindly give consent to the Indian embassy to provide financial assistance for the dispatch of mortal remains to India." Senior BJP leader Prakash Javdekar criticised the Kerala Government on the issue accusing it of being unable to providing jobs for the youth. "Yet another Kerala youth was shot dead by Jordanian army, while sneaking into Israel. This is just not a Visa fraud, it is a complete failure of LDF and UDF in creating jobs. Kerala youth do not find jobs in Kerala. They have to either go to other states or countries," he alleged in a post on X. On March 2, sources in the External Affairs ministry informed that an Indian national was shot and killed at by the Jordanian security when he was allegedly trying to cross over into another country illegally, The Indian Embassy in Jordan mourned the demise of the national, and said it is working closely with the authorities for the transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased. In a post on X, the embassy said, "The Embassy has learnt of the sad demise of an Indian national in unfortunate circumstances. The Embassy is in touch with the family of the deceased and is working closely with Jordanian authorities for transportation of mortal remains of the deceased." (ANI)
EAM S Jaishankar met with Belgium's foreign minister, Maxime Prevot, at Hyderabad House before the arrival of Princess Astrid of the Kingdom of Belgium on Monday. He started his address by saying, "Of course, we have a historical connection here. We have war memorials to Indian soldiers on your lands. What has been, I think a very good, steady relationship in a range of issues, trade, industry, education, innovation, and culture today has the possibility of growing in a more contemporary format" "We are looking and discussing semiconductors and AI and clean energy and research and innovation and I'm particularly pleased that we also have an opportunity to welcome her Royal Highness Princess Astrid and the economic mission to have I think close to 360 businesses coming is something really impressive and I must say that it will give them an opportunity to assess what is happening in India to take advantage of make in India designing in India researching in India innovating in India and we are very confident that the economic mission will actually lead to a higher level of cooperation," he added. He concluded by saying, "I would also like to use the time today to discuss important geopolitical issues. The world is more than normally interesting at these times. Therefore, I extend a warm welcome." Princess Astrid is on a Belgian Economic Mission to India, travelling with a delegation of 335 members and 180 companies. The itinerary released by the MEA's statement earlier had also highlighted that the princess was visiting the Travancore Palace in New Delhi. The palace is the former residence of the Maharaja of Travancore, at Kasturba Gandhi Marg in the national capital. On Monday, she will be meeting External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at noon at Hyderabad House. Later, on March 4, Tuesday, she will be meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following the official meeting, on March 5-6, the Princess will be participating in programs in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Following the meeting, on the next day, she will be having a courtesy meeting with Maharashtra governor C P Radhakrishnan. (ANI)
In its press release, the Ministry of External Affairs stated that Madan Kumar Ghildiyal, presently the Ministry's Joint Secretary, has been appointed as the next Indian Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) had earlier approved the empanelment of officers from the 2008 batch of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) for promotion to Grade-III in Level 14 of the Pay Matrix. The promotion was set to be effective immediately from the date of assumption of charge and will remain in place until further orders. The list of officers empanelled for promotion includes a diverse group of experienced diplomats serving across various critical posts worldwide. These officers have made significant contributions to the Ministry of External Affairs and represent India in key international settings. In total, 21 officers were empanelled for promotion, including Mr Madan Kumar Ghildiyal, the then Commercial Representative, Consulate General of India, Atlanta, USA. Earlier, India in the USA (Consulate General of India, Atlanta) had written on their Facebook page, bidding farewell to Madan Kumar Ghildiyal, "Consulate and community members bid farewell to Mr. Madan Kumar Ghildiyal, Consul, with heartfelt gratitude for his service. Community members shared warm memories and best wishes for his next assignment. We wish him continued success in his future endeavours, happiness and good health." A few people wrote, "Grateful for his service to the Indian community here in the South East & best wishes to Madan ji for his future endeavours." Bilateral exchanges between India and Timor-Leste have gained momentum in recent times. During the ASEAN-India Summit in September 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the opening of India's Resident Mission in Timor-Leste. And subsequently, Timor-Leste has also conveyed a decision to open a Resident Mission in Delhi. With the reciprocal opening of Resident Missions in each other's countries, the so-called Delhi-Dili connect will go stronger. ASEAN is a crucial pillar in India's Act East policy. And in the light of ASEAN's decision to admit Timor-Leste as its 11th member, India's relationship with Timor-Leste will only gain greater significance. The warm and cordial relationship between the two countries is anchored on shared commitments to upholding democracy, inclusiveness and plurality. (ANI)
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has raised serious concerns over the persistent delays workers face in seeking justice for wrongful dismissals, emphasising that these delays are often exacerbated by the undue influence of powerful corporations on the legal system. HRCP brought attention to the tragic death of Asif Javed, a worker employed by a multinational company, who reportedly self-immolated outside the Lahore High Court in protest against the alleged manipulation of his case, which involved his reinstatement following his dismissal in 2015. In a statement shared on the social media platform X, HRCP expressed its distress over Javed's death, stating, "HRCP is deeply saddened by the death of Asif Javed, a former employee of a multinational company, who tragically took his own life in protest against the alleged manipulation of his court case. This case, like many others, highlights the systemic issue of prolonged delays in resolving labour disputes." The Commission extended its condolences to Javed's family and friends. HRCP also underscored the widespread issue of unresolved labour disputes, noting that many cases remain pending for years due to procedural delays, with corporate influence playing a significant role in these delays. The Commission called for a high-level investigation into Mr. Javed's death and the alleged corporate interference in his case. It also demanded that the state take decisive action to ensure the strict enforcement of labor laws at national and multinational companies, calling for severe penalties for corporations exploiting legal loopholes to delay justice. Wrongful dismissals are a significant issue in Pakistan, impacting employees across various sectors. Recently, Pakistani media outlet Dawn reported on a case involving Pak-Datacom, a Ministry of IT and Telecom subsidiary, which terminated five senior employees who raised concerns about alleged financial irregularities. As per reports, the employees had highlighted issues like illegal hiring practices, questionable reimbursements, and negligence leading to lost contracts. Despite directives from the Ministry of IT to investigate the allegations against the CEO, Zulfiqar Ali, a fact-finding committee has failed to finalize its report after six months. The employees filed complaints with the board and IT ministry, but no explanation for the delay in the report has been provided.(ANI)
Dr Mamtimin Ala, the President of the East Turkistan Government in Exile, recently expressed his strong critique of a report titled "Eight years on, China's repression of the Uyghurs remains dire: How China's policies in the Uyghur region aave and have not changed," published by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Taking to social media platform X, Dr Mamtimin Ala, voiced his concerns over the limitations of the report's analysis and stated, " This report attempts to illustrate, evaluate, and summarise the ongoing Uyghur crisis, yet it falls short of capturing the full essence, prevalence, and severity of this dire situation. The following excerpt from its conclusion highlights a reluctance among researchers to label this crisis as genocide. By avoiding direct terminology, it significantly overlooks the critical issues at hand." Dr Ala argued that while the report provides important insights into the grave conditions faced by the Uyghur people, it ultimately falls short of acknowledging the full extent of the atrocities taking place. He stated, ""In their totality, the policies described in this report threaten to erase Turkic minority cultures and lifeways, interrupt cultural transmission across generations, dispossess indigenous populations, reduce the proportion of minority populations in the region, break apart families, and subordinate survivors to Han Chinese colonial goals. Evidence from the last two years suggests that the state's progress toward these ends continues, at the cost of immense suffering for millions of members of the targeted groups." One of the most striking criticisms that Dr Ala raised was the report's conclusion, which despite aligning with the United Nations' definition of genocide, stops short of directly calling the situation in East Turkistan what it truly is. He stated, "Although this conclusion aligns with the UN's definition of genocide, the research stops short of explicitly naming it as such. A diluted and misrepresenting analysis of an ongoing genocide can be more detrimental than having no analysis at all! It only aids the genociders but betrays the genocided." (ANI)
The disappearing spree continues in Pakistan's Balochistan province as twelve more individuals are reported missing, from the areas of Quetta, Nushki, Mashkay, and Winder. The Balochistan Post reported, "The wave of enforced disappearances continues across Balochistan, with reports that Pakistani forces have forcibly disappeared twelve more individuals in the regions of Quetta, Nushki, Mashkay, and Winder. According to local sources, two brothers -- Adnan and Abrar Jamaldini, sons of Akbar Jamaldini -- were abducted from the Killi Jamaldini area of Nushki on the night of February 28. Their whereabouts remain unknown." The article highlighting the role of raids by the military added, "In Quetta, a student was reportedly taken into custody. In addition, nine individuals were forcibly disappeared during raids in various parts of Tehsil Mashkay in the Awaran district between 28 February and 1 March. The missing have been identified as Momin (son of Aslam), Kamran (son of Muhammad Alam), Meraj (son of Niyaz Muhammad), Zaheer (son of Niyaz Muhammad), Saif (son of Comrade Latif), Safdar (son of Inayat), Qamaruddin (son of Dostain), Washdil (son of Qadir Dad) and Dostain (son of Qadir Dad)". "Another individual, Allah Bakhsh (son of Jumma Khan), was reportedly taken from the Winder area in the Lasbela district. Local sources said that he had moved from the Jhao region in Awaran to escape repeated military harassment", the article said. The article concluded that "These incidents come as the number of enforced disappearances in the region has sharply increased. Since January 2025, nearly 200 cases have been reported, with Baloch political parties warning of a 'dangerous increase' in abductions by Pakistani forces. Protests and sit-in demonstrations against enforced disappearances continue across Balochistan, with demonstrators blocking major routes including the Karachi-Quetta highway and staging protests in Quetta and other cities." Protests and sit-in demonstrations continue to spread across Balochistan, with demonstrators blocking major routes, including the Karachi-Quetta highway. Residents of Quetta and other cities have been actively protesting, demanding justice and the immediate release of those forcibly disappeared. The persistence of this issue continues to fuel widespread discontent, with many warning of the severe consequences of ongoing state repression in the region. Enforced disappearances in Balochistan remain a critical human rights issue, with numerous individuals, particularly activists, journalists, and political leaders, being abducted by state forces or unidentified groups. These disappearances are often linked to the Baloch nationalist movement, as people demand greater autonomy and rights. Families of the disappeared face immense struggles for justice, while the government often denies involvement, exacerbating fears of further repression and violence. The situation has sparked widespread domestic and international condemnation. (ANI)
EAM S. Jaishankar met Princess Astrid of Belgium on Monday. In a post on X the EAM wrote, "Delighted to meet Princess Astrid of Belgium, leading an economic mission to India. Confident that her visit will foster greater collaborations for a stronger India - Belgium and India - EU partnership." Princess Astrid, the second child of King Albert II and Queen Paola and sister to King Philippe, leads Belgium's economic missions as representative of the King. According to a statement from the Belgian Monarchy, these missions contribute to the development of economic and trade relations between Belgium and its regions and numerous foreign partners. She is the Honorary President of the Queen Elisabeth Medical Foundation (QEMF), and supports the King Baudouin Foundation's Scientific and Medical Funds. Princess Astrid maintains contacts with the scientific world to support fundamental medical research in various fields, visiting various sites and participating in award ceremonies. According to a statement from the External Affairs Ministry (MEA), Princess Astrid will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi during her visit and visit various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi. According to the Belgian Ambassador to India, Didier Vanderhasselt, the Princess will be on a Belgian economic mission to India, travelling with a delegation of 335 members and 180 companies. Belgium's Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, is also be part of the economic mission with the princess. "It is the highest format that we have on the Belgian side, led by H.H. Princess Astrid as the representative of the king. Our new Minister of Foreign Affairs, who is also our Deputy Prime Minister, and other ministers will also be accompanying the delegation of 335 members and 180 companies," said Vanderhasselt. The Belgian envoy further mentioned that at least 14 seminars and conferences will focus on sectors such as renewable energy, defence, eco-construction, life sciences, and steel decarbonization. "We are going towards a more intense and strategic relationship between the EU and India and also between Belgium and India. We need reliable partners all over the world. India has a very impressive growth of 5-7% every year. So India is very high on our priority list, and it is certainly on the map when it comes to our economic actors," the Belgian envoy told ANI. (ANI)
Dubai [UAE], March 3 (ANI/ ARAB NEWSWIRE): The 10th edition of the GCC Regulatory Affairs Pharma Summit, held at the prestigious Movenpick Grand Al Bustan in Dubai, concluded with tremendous success. Over 650 esteemed professionals, including government officials, industry leaders, and regulatory experts, gathered to advance the future of pharmaceutical regulation. The summit commenced with the GCC Regulatory Affairs Pharma Summit on February 17-18, setting the stage for thought-provoking discussions on critical regulatory topics. This was followed by the GCC Pharmacovigilance Training and the GCC Medical Tender & Business Talk on February 19-20, providing in-depth insights into drug safety and procurement strategies. The event concluded on February 21 with an exclusive eCTD Training, ensuring professionals were equipped with the latest regulatory submission practices. Dr. Ruqaya Al Bastaki from the Emirates Drug Establishment, delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony at the summit, highlighting "Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) redefines UAE's regulatory landscape with expanded domains and innovative services for safer healthcare." "As regulatory frameworks continue to evolve, the GCC RA Pharma Summit serves as a crucial forum for discussing upcoming regulations and new guidelines shaping the pharmaceutical landscape," said Dr. Mona Al Moussli, Chairman of the GCC Regulatory Affairs Pharma Summit. "By addressing these changes, the summit ensures that stakeholders are well-prepared to navigate regulatory updates, enhance compliance, and drive innovation in the region's healthcare sector." Dr. Najiba Al Shezawy, Co-Chairman of the GCC Regulatory Affairs Pharma Summit, emphasized the event's success: "The 10th edition witnessed an impressive turnout, with a large number of attendees and participation from top leading pharmaceutical companies. The diverse and extensive representation from across the industry highlights the summit's significance as a premier gathering for regulatory affairs professionals." The event also saw significant participation from key regulatory authorities and organizations across the region, including Emirates Drug Establishment, Emirates Health Services, Dubai Health Authority, RAFED UAE, and the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi from the UAE, Saudi Food and Drug Authority from Saudi Arabia; Ministry of Health - Oman, Sultan Qaboos Hospital, and University Medical City from Oman; National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) from Bahrain; Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA) from Jordan; Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) from Egypt; KIMADIA from Iraq; Ministry of Health - Kuwait from Kuwait, and Kurdistan Medical Control Agency (KMCA) from Kurdistan. Their contributions and presence played a vital role in shaping the regulatory discussions and fostering greater collaboration across the region. The GCC Regulatory Affairs Pharma Summit sparked groundbreaking discussions, insights, and networking. Industry leaders, regulators, and innovators united to shape the future of pharmaceutical regulations, cementing the summit as the region's top platform for transformation and excellence. (ANI/ ARAB NEWSWIRE)
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the Additional Solicitor General (ASG), appearing for the Centre, informed the court that Shahzadi Khan, the woman from Uttar Pradesh, had been executed on February 15. The ASG also stated that the authorities are extending all possible assistance to her family and her cremation is scheduled for March 5. The father's plea for MEA intervention for his daughter on UAE death row ended in tragedy, and as a result, the court has disposed of the plea. Representing the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Chetan Sharma and Advocate Ashish Dikshit informed the Delhi High Court that the Embassy of India in UAE received an official communication on February 28, 2025, from the UAE government. The communication stated that Shehzadi's death sentence was executed on February 15, 2025, in accordance with UAE laws and regulations. On the same day, the Embassy informed Shabbir Khan, the father of Shehzadi, about the confirmation of her execution. He was also informed that the family could come to the UAE by March 5, 2025, to participate in her last rites. Additionally, a dedicated mobile number for contacting the Indian Embassy was provided to Khan, stated MEA. The father of Shahzadi Khan, the UP woman facing a death sentence in the UAE, has approached the Delhi High Court seeking a directive to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and appropriate authorities to issue a bulletin and ascertain information regarding the exact current legal status and well-being of his daughter. Shahzadi Khan, a 33-year-old woman from Banda district in Uttar Pradesh, was facing execution in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Shahzadi Khan, who was imprisoned in Abu Dhabi's Al Wathba jail, was sentenced to death by a court for the death of a child who was under her care. Plea moved through advocate Ali Md Maaz stated that in December 2021, Shabbir Khan's daughter obtained a visa and traveled to Abu Dhabi, with a transit in Dubai. In August 2022, her employer gave birth to a son for whom Shabbir's daughter was employed as a caregiver. On December 7, 2022, the infant received routine vaccinations and tragically passed away that evening. The hospital recommended a postmortem, but the infant's parents refused and signed a consent letter waiving further investigation, the plea stated. It further stated that in February 2023, a video recording allegedly showed Shabbir's daughter confessing to the infant's homicide, a confession she claims was extracted through torture and abuse by Employer and her family. On February 10, 2023, she was handed over to the Abu Dhabi police, and on July 31, 2023, she was sentenced to death for the infant's homicide. Although legal counsel was provided by the Indian Embassy, it reportedly pressured her to confess, denying her adequate representation. Her appeal in September 2023 was dismissed, and the death penalty was upheld on February 28, 2024. Following the dismissal, Shabbir Khan sought clemency proceedings through the Indian Embassy but received a reply concerning an unrelated case. He filed a new mercy petition in May 2024. On July 11, 2024, he forwarded a mercy petition to the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi but received no response. On February 14, 2025, Shabbir Khan received a call from his incarcerated daughter, suggesting imminent execution. He then filed a formal request with the Ministry of External Affairs on February 20, 2025, seeking an inquiry into her legal status and wellbeing, but received no update. (ANI)
A technical delegation from Bangladesh went to Kolkata on Monday to discuss the sharing of water resources between Bangladesh and India, officials said. They said the 12-member Bangladesh delegation, led by Muhammad Abul Hossen, a member of the Joint River Commission (JRC), is expected to observe the flow of the Ganges at Farakka until March 5 morning. Thereafter, the delegation is set to return to Kolkata for a two-day meeting, under the aegis of the India-Bangladesh Joint River Commission, at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Kolkata on March 6-7, The Daily Star reported. "After the Farakka site visit, there will be two meetings between Bangladesh and India. One meeting will discuss the implementation of the Ganges Agreement, and the other meeting will discuss various technical issues of the common rivers," Kazi Shahidur Rahman, Executive Engineer of JRC, told ANI over the phone. "The delegation will return to Dhaka on March 8," he added. The Ganges is one of the 54 rivers shared by India and Bangladesh. Long-standing differences over its water sharing were resolved with the signing of the Ganges Water Treaty on December 12, 1996, by then-Indian Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and his then-Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina. The Treaty was to remain in force for a period of 30 years and was renewable by mutual consent. For monitoring the implementation of the Treaty, a Joint Committee was set up, as per the Department of Water Resources. The treaty is due for renewal in 2026. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is expected to play a crucial role in the efforts to renew the Ganges water-sharing treaty. Banerjee continues to oppose the Teesta River water sharing treaty despite India and Bangladesh agreeing on its text in 2011. Notably, a system of transmission of flood forecasting data exists on major rivers like Ganga, Teesta, Brahmputra and Barak during the monsoon season from India to Bangladesh. The transmission of flood forecasting information during the monsoon has enabled the civil and military authorities in Bangladesh to shift the population affected by floods to safer places, as stated by the ministry. (ANI)
A coalition of human rights organizations and refugee advocacy groups has urged the Pakistani government to halt the forced expulsion of Afghan migrants, citing violations of international law, basic human rights, and the country's obligations, as reported by Khaama Press. In an open letter, the groups emphasized that many Afghan refugees, including human rights defenders and activists, have fled their homeland due to violence, harassment, and persecution. As per reports, the letter also points out that Afghan migrants, including women, children, and those with valid visas, are being subjected to forced expulsion, detention, and high visa fees. Khaama Press reported that the Pakistani government has set a March 31 deadline for Afghan refugees awaiting resettlement in Western countries like the US, UK, Germany, France, and Australia to leave Pakistan, with those failing to comply facing forced expulsion. However, the groups argue that this move would put immense pressure on Afghan migrants, who are already facing forced migration, detention, exorbitant visa costs, and mass expulsion. The organisations have urged both- the Pakistani government and the international community to halt the expulsion process and ensure the legal protection and safety of Afghan refugees, particularly vulnerable women and children. In recent years, the Pakistani government has begun to view the prolonged stay of Afghan refugees as a strain on resources and a potential security threat, especially after the rise of groups like the Taliban. Recently, Pakistan initiated expulsions, citing illegal residency and security risks. These expulsions have sparked debates over human rights, regional stability, and Pakistan's responsibility toward its Afghan neighbours. They stressed that refugees cannot be penalized or coerced into expulsion and that international laws regarding the treatment of refugees must be respected. According to a report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Pakistan has expelled over 825,600 Afghan nationals since September 2023 as part of its "Illegal Foreigners' Repatriation Plan." The UNHCR has expressed concern over the forced deportations, highlighting that they have raised significant international alarm. (ANI)
Turk's remarks emphasized that while China has engaged with the international human rights system, progress in addressing systemic violations has been insufficient, and the international community must ramp up its efforts.

Turk particularly highlighted the ongoing persecution of lawyers, human rights defenders, and citizen journalists, many of whom face arbitrary detention under vague criminal charges.

He stated, "While China is engaging with the international human rights system, I refer back to my previous updates raising serious concerns and hope to see meaningful progress on these issues. I continue to make representations on behalf of lawyers, human rights defenders, and citizen journalists who have been arbitrarily detained under vague criminal offences."

The issue of Hong Kong's national security laws also came under heavy scrutiny. Turk pointed out, "In Hong Kong SAR, the broad application of national security laws continues to stifle civic space," drawing attention to the laws' detrimental impact on fundamental freedoms.

Furthermore, Turk extended his concerns to the Xinjiang region, noting, "The recent report by International Labour Organization experts on counter-terrorism measures and labour programmes in the Xinjiang region reinforces our own grave concerns and underscores the urgency of addressing our longstanding recommendations."

He also voiced alarm over ongoing restrictions in Tibet, stressing, "I am deeply concerned by the impact of education policies and the continued restrictions on freedom of expression, religion, and belief in the Tibet Autonomous Region."

Turk's remarks called for heightened international pressure on China to address these pervasive human rights violations and respect fundamental freedoms.

China has always faced criticism for human rights violations, including restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and religion. The government suppresses dissent, censors the media, and detains activists. The treatment of ethnic minorities, such as Uyghurs in Xinjiang, and Tibetans, remains a significant concern, with reports of forced labor, mass detention, and cultural repression. (ANI)
In a significant demonstration in Kharmang, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan, women blocked the Kargil Road, demanding the immediate release of three religious scholars from Baltistan, who have been detained in Balochistan for the past ten days, Pamir Times reported. The scholars were reportedly detained after returning from Iran, and their families and supporters are demanding clarity on their whereabouts and the reasons for their detention. In a video uploaded by Pamir Times, a protesting woman stated, "Our brothers are under the control of the government, and we don't even know what their mistake is. We have no contact with him. The protest will continue until they release him." Another woman added, "They have been missing for 10 days. Until now, we remained silent, but now we will not stay quiet and will continue the protest." The protest, organised by local leaders, has drawn widespread attention, with people voicing their anger over the enforced disappearance of the scholars. Pamir Times reported that despite prior assurances that the scholars would be transferred to Karachi, their whereabouts remain unknown. This lack of information has led to public outrage, with leaders warning that if detained scholars are not released, Kargil Road will remain blocked, and protests will expand to other regions. Pamir Times mentioned that prominent religious leader Allama Sheikh Muhammad Hassan Jafri condemned the enforced disappearance of the scholars, calling for their immediate and unconditional release. In a statement, Allama Jafri expressed concern over the broken promises and misleading assurances made by authorities regarding the scholars' release. He emphasised that the failure to meet these promises has only deepened public frustration. In Pakistan, enforced disappearances and detentions have been a significant human rights concern, with individuals, particularly activists, political opponents, and religious figures, being taken into custody by security agencies without legal proceedings. Families often face challenges in obtaining information about their loved ones, fueling public outrage and protests. These disappearances have been reported across various regions, including Balochistan, Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. The lack of accountability and transparency from authorities has led to increasing tension, as citizens demand justice, the release of detainees, and an end to such practices. International organisations have repeatedly called for reforms to address these issues. (ANI)
A new impetus has been imparted today to the ambitious Transcontinental Connectivity Project - India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) launched during the G-20 Summit held in Delhi in September 2023 with signatories including India, UAE, USA, EU, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, and Germany, a statement by the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi stated. The delegation conducted discussions on stakeholders, including those of shipping lines. "A delegation led by Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri TK Ramachandaran held substantive discussions with CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, HE Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. The delegation included Ambassador of India to UAE, HE Sunjay Sudhir, CMD, RITES Ltd Sh Rahul Mithal and Chairman, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) Sh Unmesh Wagh. Prior to the meeting, an interactive discussions was held with stakeholders, including Terminal Operators, Shipping Lines and Customs. A presentation was also made in this regard," the statement read. The discussions also revolved around Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface, which was launched during Dubai Crown Prince's visit to India. "Earlier, Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface (MAITRI), was launched during the visit of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi to India in September 2024. MAITRI is a platform which will integrate existing trade portals including National Logistics Portal- Marine (NLP-M), Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE), Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) with similar portals on the UAE side providing seamless and paperless connectivity," the statement read. "MAITRI will also support the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) which was also launched during the visit of His Highness Sheikh Khaled. VTC will not only be an integral part of IMEEC but will also help bilateral trade between India and the UAE which stands at over USD 85 billion," the statement added. Considerable work has already happened on MAITRI platform with Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPS&W) of India assigning the work of developing the platform to RITES and C-DAC, who are working closely with JNPA, Deendayal Port and other major ports of India. A workshop in this regard was held in Mumbai on 27th February with the participation of Hon'ble Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal. The workshop also saw participation from Abu Dhabi Ports and DP World and other important stakeholders from the UAE side, the statement read. IMEEC signatories represent a large part of global GDP. IMEEC will provide an alternate supply route connecting India, Europe and the USA through countries of the Middle East. In addition to port and rail infrastructure, IMEEC is also envisaged to provide energy and digital connectivity. The work of laying the electrical grid between UAE and India for solar power is also underway. The two countries are also working on green hydrogen and public digital infrastructure, as per the statement. https://x.com/IndembAbuDhabi/status/1896559926287442067 https://x.com/IndembAbuDhabi/status/1896560171994017809 "A new impetus to IMEEC & India-UAE Virtual Trade Corridor! A delegation led by Secy of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, T K Ramachandran held discussions with H.E. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports on VTC and Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface (MAITRI)." (ANI)
Chinese procuratorates strengthen efforts to protect cultural heritage, relics

Xinhua) 08:50, March 03, 2025

BEIJING, March 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese procuratorial organs in 2024 approved the arrest of 1,069 individuals suspected of involvement in cultural relics-related crimes, including intentional destruction of cultural relics, tomb raiding, and illegal trafficking of relics, according to the Supreme People's Procuratorate (SPP).

Last year, prosecutors also filed charges against 1,910 individuals for alleged involvement in such crimes, said Xu Xiangchun, a senior prosecutor at the SPP.

From January 2019 to December 2024, procuratorial organs nationwide handled more than 20,000 public interest litigation cases related to cultural heritage and relics protection -- addressing numerous pressing issues in terms of the preservation and utilization of cultural heritage, Xu added.

Procuratorial organs will enforce the newly-revised law on the protection of cultural relics, which came into force on Saturday, Xu said.

He also noted that the SPP will guide local procuratorial organs in launching specialized supervision campaigns tailored to regional characteristics, focusing on the protection of grotto temples, traditional villages, revolutionary relics and intangible cultural heritage.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Nepal and India on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector, including waste management. The signing ceremony was held at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, New Delhi, in the presence of CR Patil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, and Pradeep Yadav, Minister of Water Supply, Government of Nepal. "India and Nepal are strengthening cooperation in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene WASH Sector including Waste Management with a new MoU signed by India's Hon'ble Minister of Jal Shakti Shri C R Patil and Nepal's Hon'ble Minister for Water Supply Shri Pradeep Yadav today. This initiative will help boost joint efforts by India and Nepal towards #water conservation, #sanitation, and waste management for a sustainable future," the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu tweeted on Monday evening. The agreement aims to promote collaboration between the two nations and strengthen intergovernmental cooperation in the WASH sector, ensuring better access to clean drinking water and sanitation for their populations. The comprehensive MoU outlines a collaborative framework encompassing several key areas, including capacity-building training programs for Nepali personnel in water resource management and related fields. Furthermore, the technology and knowledge transfer by sharing technological expertise and best practices between India and Nepal in the WASH sector and the groundwater management with joint efforts in monitoring, assessment, and management of groundwater resources, including quality improvement, artificial recharge, and rainwater harvesting, is covered by the agreement. During the event, Union Minister of Jal Shakti C R Patil highlighted India's significant achievements under Prime Minister Narendra Modi in providing clean drinking water and sanitation facilities to all citizens. Patil emphasized that this MoU reflects the shared commitment of India and Nepal towards public health, sustainability, and regional cooperation. Nepal's Minister of Water Supply, Government of Nepal Pradeep Yadav, commended India's success in implementing large-scale clean drinking water and sanitation initiatives. Yadav stated that Nepal looks forward to learning from India's experience in these sectors and that Nepali officials will visit key sites in India to gain insights and best practices. He further proposed that regular meetings should be held to ensure steady progress and mutual exchange of knowledge. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from both countries, including Naveen Srivastava, Ambassador of India to Nepal, and Shankar Prasad Sharma, Ambassador of Nepal to India, along with Secretaries Debashree Mukherjee and Ashok Kumar Meena, and other delegates. (ANI)
On the occasion of World Hearing Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) South-East Asia region is emphasizing the importance of hearing health and promoting five key strategies to prevent hearing loss and promote ear care. Here are five simple yet effective measures suggested by WHO South-East Asia to safeguard your hearing: Keep the volume low and ensure that your music or audio levels are below 60% of the maximum volume. Use earplugs when in loud environments, such as concerts or construction sites, to reduce noise exposure. Get regular hearing tests--Newborns and school-age children: Regular hearing tests can help identify any hearing issues early on. For adults over 50, age-related hearing loss is common, so regular check-ups are essential. Check your own hearing by using the WHO hearWHO app. This app allows you to test your hearing annually and provides guidance on seeking professional help if needed. Visit a doctor If your hearing score is below 50, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Utilize assistive technology, such as hearing aids and devices. If recommended by a healthcare professional, these devices can significantly improve your hearing. Captioning and sign language: These tools can make information more accessible and inclusive. Stay informed and spread awareness by learning about good ear care practices and sharing your knowledge with others. Inform your community about the importance of hearing health and the simple steps to protect it. https://x.com/WHOSEARO/status/1896516657905865061 Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia, in a statement, discussed the organisation's commitment to promoting better hearing health. She stated in a statement that this year, under the theme "Changing Mindsets: Empower Yourself to Make Ear and Hearing Care a Reality for All," we reaffirm our commitment to empowering individuals, communities, and health systems to take meaningful action toward better ear and hearing health. Each year, on March 3rd, we observe World Hearing Day to raise awareness about preventing deafness and hearing loss while advocating for ear and hearing care worldwide. Hearing loss is an escalating public health challenge. Over 1.5 billion people are affected globally, with nearly 80 per cent living in low--and middle-income countries. An estimated 400 million people experience hearing problems in our South-East Asia Region alone--a number that could rise to 660 million by 2050 if current trends continue, as per the statement. These are not just statistics; they reflect real individuals whose lives, livelihoods, and well-being are deeply impacted. Unaddressed hearing loss has far-reaching consequences, influencing language development, education, employment, and mental health. However, many causes are preventable, and effective, cost-efficient interventions are available. Despite this, over 80 per cent of ear and hearing care needs worldwide remain unmet. Bridging this gap must be a priority, the statement said. "I am encouraged by the progress made by Member States in strengthening ear and hearing in our Region. Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Nepal have conducted situational assessments using WHO tools and are advancing towards strategic development for strengthening ear and hearing care services," she added. Myanmar has integrated ear and hearing care with eye care, elderly care, and mental health services at the community level. Bhutan has implemented free hearing screenings and hearing aid services for children. Indonesia has initiated integrated hearing and vision screening in schools. Field-testing of Training on Assistive Products hearing modules is being done in India. "On this World Hearing Day, I call on governments, health professionals, civil society, and individuals to prioritize ear and hearing care, challenge stigma, and advocate for greater investment in this critical area," the statement read. Together, we can ensure hearing care is accessible to all, everywhere. (ANI)
Union Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita connected with the Indian diaspora in the Bahamas during his first-ever bilateral visit. Margherita said he celebrated the growing people-to-people and cultural linkages between the two nations. "Delighted to connect with the vibrant and closely connected Indian community in The Bahamas! A lively evening celebrating the growing P2P and cultural linkages between the two nations. Our increasing diaspora plays a key role in strengthening India-Bahamas cultural ties." https://x.com/PmargheritaBJP/status/1896553333155914227 Earlier in the day, he was received by the Parliamentary Secretary of Bahamas, Jamahl Strachan. "Happy to arrive in The Bahamas for the first-ever bilateral visit. Pleased to be received by MP & Parliamentary Secretary Jamahl Strachan. Looking forward to engaging with the leadership and the Indian community to explore new opportunities and strengthen our growing partnership and P2P ties," he said in a post on X. https://x.com/PmargheritaBJP/status/1896376515631472669 Earlier on Sunday, Margherita represented India at Uruguay President Yamandu Orsi's and Vice President Carolina Cosse's swearing-in ceremony. Margherita said he conveyed greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the new government of Uruguay. He further said that he looked forward to collaborating with the new government to strengthen relations between both nations in the future. In a post on X, he said, "Honored to represent India at the swearing-in ceremony of President H.E. Yamandu Orsi and Vice President Carolina Cosse. Conveyed warm greetings and felicitations from the Prime Minister of India to the new government of Uruguay. Congratulations to the people of Uruguay on this historic occasion. Look forward to collaborating with the new government to further strengthen the India-Uruguay partnership." https://x.com/PmargheritaBJP/status/1895982681525272717 Margherita is on an official visit to Uruguay from February 28 to March 2, the Bahamas from March 2 to March 4, Barbados from March 4 to March 6 and Nicaragua from March 6 to March 8. (ANI)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Monday that Ukraine was fighting for normalcy and safety, and added that it wants the war to end. Zelenskyy alleged that Russia does not want the war to end, as those who want negotiations do not strike civilians. "Ukraine is fighting for the normal and safe life it deserves, for a just and reliable peace. We want this war to end. But Russia does not, and continues its aerial terror: over the past week, more than 1,050 attack drones, nearly 1,300 aerial bombs, and more than 20 missiles have been launched at Ukraine to destroy cities and kill people. Those who seek negotiations do not deliberately strike civilians with ballistic missiles. To force Russia to stop its attacks, we need greater collective strength from the world," he said. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1896506031686980022 "Strengthening our air defense, supporting our army, and ensuring effective security guarantees that will make the return of Russian aggression impossible--this is what we must focus on. Justice must prevail. We believe in the power of unity, and we will certainly restore lasting peace," he said. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has accused Zelenskyy of not wanting peace, following a clash last week between the Ukrainian leader and US President Donald Trump. He described the angry public encounter as "quite an unprecedented event", while questioning Zelenkyy's diplomatic skills, as per Al Jazeera. Earlier in the day, Zelenskyy praised the support Ukraine got from Europe. "As a result of these days, we see clear support from Europe. Even more unity, even more willingness to cooperate. Everyone is united on the main issue - for peace to be real, we need real security guarantees. And this is the position of all of Europe - the entire continent. The United Kingdom, the European Union, Turkiye. Of course, we understand the importance of America, and we are grateful for all the support we've received from the United States. There has not been a day when we haven't felt gratitude. It's gratitude for the preservation of our independence - our resilience in Ukraine is based on what our partners are doing for us - and for their own security. What we need is peace, not endless war. And that's why we say security guarantees are the key to this," Zelenskyy said. https://x.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1896359078214984079 A UK-led summit on Ukraine took place in London with more than a dozen European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in attendance, Al Jazeera reported. At the summit, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, warned that Europe urgently needs to boost its defence and said the leaders had a "good and frank discussion" about negotiations to end the war in Ukraine, including the need for security guarantees. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said some European leaders had privately set out plans on defence spending, which he described as "very good news", Al Jazeera reported. (ANI)
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his "unwavering support" for Israel, particularly with the ongoing situation in Gaza. https://x.com/IsraeliPM/status/1896295111157231971 In a recent statement on X, Netanyahu praised Trump as "the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House," highlighting the significant steps Trump has taken to aid Israel's security in the region. He also acknowledged Trump's role in providing necessary munitions, which was previously been delayed. Sharing his video on X, he wrote, "I want to thank President Trump for his unwavering support for Israel. During my recent visit to Washington, I said that Donald Trump is the greatest friend that Israel has ever had in the White House. And President Trump shows that friendship each and every day." "He has shown it through his visionary plan for Gaza. This is a plan which Israel fully supports. He's shown it by sending us all the munitions that were being held up. This way he's giving Israel the tools we need to finish the job against Iran's terror axis. And he has shown it by fully backing Israel and putting the pressure to release the hostages where it truly belongs, on Hamas," he added. Notably, Israel has accepted President Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff's plan to extend the temporary ceasefire by 50 days. Highlighting, Witkopf's plan, Netanyahu stated, "During that time, we can discuss the conditions for a permanent ceasefire that will end the war in Gaza. In Witkopf's plan, half of the hostages would be released right away, and the remaining half would be released if we reach an agreement on a permanent ceasefire." "Again, Israel has accepted this plan, I accepted this plan, but so far Hamas has rejected it. Hamas had also put forward positions for a permanent ceasefire that are totally unacceptable," he added. He added that Israel has made the decision to stop sending goods and supplies into Gaza claiming that Hamas was "stealing" supplies meant for the civilian population and using them to fund its terrorist activities. "Israel has decided to stop letting goods and supplies into Gaza, something we've done for the past 42 days. We've done that, because Hamas steals the supplies and prevents the people of Gaza from getting them. It uses these supplies to finance its terror machine, which is aimed directly at Israel and our civilians, and this we cannot accept," the Israeli President said Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's commitment to taking further steps if Hamas continues to hold hostages. "And throughout this, Israel knows that America and President Trump have our back," he said. In closing, Netanyahu reiterated his thanks to President Trump and stated, "Thank you again, President Trump. Thank you for all you are doing to return our hostages, both to our security and provide a future of prosperity and peace for all the peoples of the Middle East," he said. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, firing thousands of rockets and sending militants to infiltrate Israeli towns near Gaza. The assault resulted in hundreds of casualties and hostages being taken. In response, Israel began airstrikes on Gaza, marking the start of a major conflict. (ANI)
Over the last two decades, Centra Healths Dr. Matthew Sackett has been pioneering advancements in electrophysiology, specializing in heart rhythm disorders and innovative cardiac treatments.

A Lynchburg native, Sackett has dedicated his career to serving the community where he was born and raised, following in the footsteps of his great-uncle, Dr. Charles Sackett, who played a foundational role in the regions cardiology practice.

Like his father, similar and now his own kids, Sackett attended E.C. Glass High School.

Ive always been a Lynchburger, he said.

His medical career took him to Emory University for training and then to Wake Forest University for a cardiology fellowship, but he always knew he would return home.

I never interviewed for a job anywhere else, he said. I always knew I was going to come here.

In 2002, he joined the local cardiology practice as an electrophysiologist.

I tailored my training to what was needed here, he said.

At that time, the practice was privately owned but it collaborated closely with Centra. By the mid-2000s, it officially became part of Centra Health, evolving over the years into the expansive, multi-specialty Centra Heart & Vascular Institute that now includes endocrinologists, bariatric surgeons, vascular surgeons and cardiac surgeons.

Providing cardiac care in a town where he knows so many people has been both a privilege and a challenge. I never even thought about doing anything different than coming back to Lynchburg to take care of this community, he said. Its very rewarding, but at times, its hard. You dont get to walk away and go home and nobody knows who you are.

Unlike physicians who can separate their personal and professional lives, Sacketts role in Lynchburg means he is always on call for his community.

You never get disconnected, he said. You get phone calls at all hours from family and friends who are having an emergency or think theyre having an emergency. You never really get to turn it off.

Despite this, Sackett finds fulfillment in his work.

Ive taken care of a lot of people that I know, he said.

As an electrophysiologist, Sackett specializes in treating heart rhythm disorders.

We place pacemakers, implant cardiac defibrillators for people who are at risk of sudden death and perform ablations for fast, abnormal heart rhythms, he said. Some of these conditions are life-threatening, while others are just a bad nuisance but still enough to affect quality of life.

One of the biggest advancements in the field of electrophysiology has been the use of pulsed field ablation for atrial fibrillation  a game-changer in the treatment of irregular heartbeats.

Twenty years ago that procedure was taking six hours, three years ago was taking two to three hours, we can now do in under an hour. And we started doing that in the last five months. Thats not specific to Centra, but it is very good for our community that were able to bring that technology and that will allow us to offer the procedure to even more people and hopefully with better success and better safety, he said.

Sackett has also played a leading role in a clinical trial testing a groundbreaking device for heart failure patients at Centra last summer.

We enrolled six patients in a multinational trial for a device that combines a defibrillator with cardiac contractility modulation therapy, he said. This offers not only life-saving protection but also significant improvements in quality of life.

Before this new technology, many heart failure patients had to receive two separate devices.

Now, instead of two separate implants, we can offer them a single device that does both, keeping them alive while also making them feel better, he said.

The nationwide trial will be featured at this years Heart Rhythm Society meeting in San Diego as a late-breaking clinical trial.

One of the most common conditions Sackett treats is heart failure, which can present in subtle ways.

Heart failure is a complex of symptoms, shortness of breath, fatigue, a gradual decline in the ability to do daily activities, or sometimes a very sudden change, he said. Some people just come in and say, I dont feel as good as I used to, and thats when we have to dig deeper.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 6.7 million adults have heart failure.

For many patients, early intervention with devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators can improve both quality of life and survival rates.

Pacemakers keep the heart rate up and give patients more energy, while defibrillators protect against sudden cardiac arrest, he said. Now, with this new combined device, we can also help strengthen the heart itself.

With the demand for cardiac rhythm treatments growing, Sackett and his team are looking toward expansion.

We now have five electrophysiologists in Lynchburg, but we probably need to add a sixth, he said. We also need additional procedural rooms to continue growing our ability to offer ablation technology and device therapy for heart failure to more patients.

Electrophysiology has become an increasingly important field as more people live longer with heart conditions.

As the population ages and lives longer, Sackett said there will be more people who will need attention on their hearts.

So thats probably our biggest goal to continue to grow our ability to offer, particularly atrial fibrillation ablation, but also device therapy for heart failure, to just a bigger population of patients, Sackett said.

Outside of Centra, Sackett is also dedicated to global health care efforts through Madaktari Africa, a nonprofit based in Lynchburg that provides cardiac care in Tanzania.

Ive been going there since 2017 to do pacemakers, defibrillators and ablations, he said. Its a skills transfer approach. We go down there and help local physicians learn so they can continue providing care after we leave.

He said he looks forward to growing that program.

Thats been a very fulfilling part of my career, he said.
TOKYO, Mar 04 (News On Japan) - Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, its coalition partner Komeito, and the opposition Japan Innovation Party have reached an agreement to waive high school tuition fees. But what exactly will change under this policy?

Currently, tuition support operates on a two-tier system based on household income. Families earning under 9.1 million yen annually receive a base subsidy of 118,800 yen, regardless of whether their child attends a public or private school. For families earning less than 5.9 million yen, additional support is provided if the student attends a private high school, with a maximum total subsidy of 396,000 yen.

Under the new agreement, income limits will be removed, and the maximum combined subsidy for private school students will increase to 457,000 yenmatching the national average for private high school tuition. However, any costs beyond this amount will still need to be covered by households. This change will primarily benefit families with children in private high schools, who will receive four times the public school tuition support per student.

Public high schools have long been attractive due to their lower tuition fees. In contrast, private schools offer unique educational approaches, direct admission pathways to affiliated universities, and superior facilities, but at a higher cost. The total annual education expensesincluding tuition, materials, and cram school feesaverage around 600,000 yen per student at public high schools, compared to 1.03 million yen at private institutions. As the tuition gap narrows, private schools are expected to become a more viable option for families that previously ruled them out. However, this may lead to declining enrollment in public schools.

Tokyo, which has already implemented a similar subsidy of approximately 480,000 yen since last year, saw the average admission rate for metropolitan high schools drop from around 1.3 times the available slots to just 1.2 this year. Meanwhile, Osaka, which introduced a phased private school subsidy of up to 630,000 yen last year, has seen a surge in junior high school entrance exams. Education services firm Up reports that while student applications for private junior high schools have declined in Kyoto and Hyogo due to Japans declining birthrate, Osaka saw a 7.1% increase.

With high school tuition effectively free, more parents are considering enrolling their children in private junior high schools, even if it means stretching their budgets. This could lead to an increase in cram school attendance among elementary students, according to Ups Yoshida, an expert on Kansais entrance exam trends.

A look at Japans last major tuition waiver policy in 2010when public high schools nationwide became tuition-free under the then-Democratic Party governmentsuggests that overall education costs may not necessarily decrease. Data shows that while total education expenses per child initially dropped below 400,000 yen, they later rebounded due to rising cram school fees, reaching about 600,000 yen by 2023higher than before the waiver.

Keio University Professor Akabayashi, an expert in education economics, warns that private school tuition waivers could have a similar effect. Even if tuition fees are covered, families may redirect the saved money into cram schools, and schools themselves may increase costs for non-tuition expenses. As a result, overall education costs may not decrease.

While the waiver aims to reduce financial burdens and promote educational equality, it may ultimately intensify competition, inadvertently fueling a new exam-driven culture.

Source: TBS
NAGASAKI, Mar 04 (News On Japan) - The historic buildings of Hashima Island, commonly known as Gunkanjima, are facing a risk of collapse due to ongoing deterioration, it was revealed on March 3rd. The island, part of the "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution," a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks its 10th anniversary this summer, has seen its structures degrade significantly over time.

A professional survey found that at least 17 out of 30 major buildings on the island now have less than half of their original seismic resistance. Aging and salt damage have been identified as the primary causes. While an immediate collapse is not expected, experts warn that Gunkanjimas distinctive battleship-like silhouette may be lost in the future.

Source: Kyodo
OSAKA, Mar 04 (News On Japan) - Overnight buses are gaining attention as a convenient travel option this spring. While not always highly profitable for bus companies, they continue to operate these services as part of a broader strategy. What kind of passengers are using them, and how are companies adapting?

Japan's long-distance buses serve around 100 million passengers annually. On the evening before a three-day weekend last week, the express bus terminal at Osaka Station was crowded, with many buses fully booked. One passenger explained, The fare is cheaper, and I can just sleep until I arrive. A Shinkansen ticket costs over 10,000 yen, but I can get there for 7,500 yen by bus. It feels like a moving hotel.

The appeal of overnight express buses lies in their cost-effectiveness and efficient use of time. Since the pandemic, demand has been recovering, and 25 overnight buses depart from this terminal daily.

A growing number of passengers are also using these buses for "oshi-katsu"traveling to support their favorite idols and entertainers. One passenger carrying a bag full of character plushies said, Im attending a VTuber event. People start lining up at the venue early in the morning, and the Shinkansen wouldnt get me there in time. Even the earliest bullet train from Shin-Osaka arrives in Tokyo at around 8:30 a.m., whereas event lines often begin forming at 5:00 a.m.

Recognizing this trend, major bus operator Willer Express has launched a social media platform dedicated to fans, providing information on how to use overnight buses for such trips. Other companies are also catering to these passengers by installing powder rooms in waiting areas and offering makeup tool rentals to enhance convenience, particularly for female travelers.

Cost remains a crucial factor for many long-distance travelers. West Japan JR Bus, for instance, offers limited seats on the Osaka-Tokyo route for as low as 2,500 yen. Ticket prices vary dynamically based on demand, with four-row seating priced from 2,500 yen and three-row seating from 4,400 yen.

Beyond fan travel, rising hotel prices are also driving demand for overnight buses as an alternative to accommodation. In December, the average price of a hotel room in Tokyo exceeded 19,000 yen, prompting more travelers to seek cost-efficient options that combine transport and lodging.

Despite the demand, overnight buses face challenges. Long routes require multiple drivers, increasing labor costs. Additionally, bus companies struggle with brand recognition, making it difficult to retain customers.

To address this, some operators are developing uniquely designed buses to stand out. Nara Kotsus "Dream Sleeper" is one such example, featuring private cabins with doors, reclining seats, and onboard powder rooms. The bus operates between Nara, Osaka, and Tokyo, taking approximately nine hours. Each seat has a fully reclining mechanism, and passengers are even required to switch to slippers upon boarding. The bus is so popular that it is fully booked nearly a month in advance.

Another company in Kochi Prefecture has introduced Japans first full-flat seat bus. Designed over nine years, the bus features double-decker, bed-like seating arrangements, allowing for 24 seats while maximizing space. The companys president, Akitoshi Umehara, demonstrated the design, saying, Its incredibly comfortable. The seats, measuring 180 cm in length and 48 cm in width, are equipped with side barriers for added privacy.

While traditional three-row seat buses charge around 10,000 yen for a trip between Kochi and Tokyo, the full-flat seat bus is expected to be priced at 14,000 yen. With fewer seats, we need to raise individual fares slightly, but this design balances comfort and profitability, Umehara explained.

The company plans to sell its full-flat seat technology to other bus operators nationwide, as the competition to offer more comfortable travel experiences continues to evolve.

Source: MBS
TOKYO, Mar 04 (News On Japan) - Honda and Nissan had been in discussions about a potential management integration, aiming to form a joint holding company that would oversee both automakers. However, the talks have collapsed, leaving many questioning what went wrong.

In December last year, both companies announced their plans to explore a business merger, with the idea of establishing a joint holding company. If realized, the combined entity, including Mitsubishi Motors under Nissan, would have boasted an annual vehicle sales volume exceeding 8 million units, making it the world's third-largest automotive group.

However, Nissan ultimately withdrew from the talks, citing concerns about whether the merger would truly maximize its potential. "We were never fully convinced that this integration would bring out Nissans full capabilities," a Nissan representative said.

The discussions were initially framed as a strategic partnership to navigate the future of electric vehicles (EVs). Honda, struggling to keep pace with the EV transition, saw an opportunity in Nissans advanced EV technology. Nissan, on the other hand, faced financial instability and had yet to fully recover from previous management crises, including its turbulent relationship with Renault. Industry insiders suggest that while Honda appeared to be the stronger player, its motivation for the merger was driven by the need to secure a competitive edge in next-generation vehicle manufacturing, particularly in software-defined vehicles (SDVs), which integrate artificial intelligence and software-driven features.

The urgency of these discussions was also influenced by external factors. Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn, known for manufacturing iPhones, had begun venturing into the EV market. Leveraging its expertise in consumer electronics, Foxconn aimed to develop SDVs that function more like smartphones on wheels, potentially disrupting the automotive industry. With such competition looming, Honda accelerated its efforts to merge with Nissan, believing that their combined expertise would help them maintain relevance in the evolving market.

However, despite the apparent strategic alignment, the merger talks unraveled rapidly. One major concern was Nissans ongoing financial restructuring, including plans to cut 9,000 jobs worldwide. The uncertainty surrounding its recovery made it difficult for Honda to fully commit to integration. Nissans executives, too, were skeptical about whether the merger would maximize the companys potential, leading them to ultimately walk away from the deal.

Cultural and managerial differences also played a significant role in the breakdown of negotiations. Honda has historically maintained a strong corporate identity, emphasizing innovation and differentiation. The companys founder, Soichiro Honda, was known for his insistence on originality, discouraging any imitation of competitors like Toyota or Nissan. Nissan, by contrast, has undergone numerous restructurings, acquisitions, and leadership changes, leading to a fragmented corporate culture. Insiders claim that Nissans management lacks the decisiveness needed to drive major transformations, as decision-making is often slowed down by excessive bureaucracy.

Another crucial factor was the perception that Nissans upper management lacked genuine enthusiasm for automobile manufacturing. While Hondas executives have traditionally come from engineering backgrounds, many of Nissans top executives are from financial or administrative sectors. This has led to a focus on cost-cutting rather than innovation, which some insiders argue has hindered Nissans ability to compete with companies like Toyota and Tesla.

Despite the mergers failure, Foxconn remains interested in Nissan, having previously approached Renault about acquiring its Nissan shares. Renault, however, has been reluctant to sell at current market prices, indicating that further negotiations could take place if Nissans stock value improves. Meanwhile, analysts believe that Nissan still needs a strong strategic partner to remain competitive in the shifting automotive landscape. A future alliance with Honda is not entirely out of the question, but for any partnership to succeed, Nissan would likely need to undergo significant structural reforms.

The collapse of these talks underscores a larger issue for Japans automotive industry. With the rapid transition to EVs and SDVs, Japanese automakers must find ways to maintain their global competitiveness. While Toyota has built a robust alliance network, including partnerships with Daihatsu, Subaru, and Mazda, Nissan and Honda must decide whether they will forge new alliances or attempt to navigate the changing market independently.

Source: ABEMA
The Rabat-based Bayt Mal Al-Quds Acharif Agency launched on Saturday, in the village of Al Judeira, located on the outskirts of Al-Quds, the 1446 Iftar Ramadan operation, aimed at supporting needy inhabitants of Al-Quds during the holy month of Ramadan.

This operation, which will continue throughout the blessed month, consists of providing Iftar meals to underprivileged Al-Quds inhabitants affiliated with social and charitable institutions, as well as to displaced families from the Gaza Strip.

The list of beneficiaries was compiled by social workers based on specific criteria, under the supervision of the Agencys Program and Project Coordination Office in the Holy City.

This solidarity initiative was launched in the presence of the Agencys Managing Director, Mohamed Salem Cherkaoui, the President of the Moroccan Association for Support of Reconstruction in Palestine, Mohamed Jamal Bouzidi, as well as several religious and community figures from Al-Quds, and representatives of beneficiary institutions.

Iftar Ramadan is part of the Agencys social aid program during the fasting month. It targets various villages in Al-Quds, social institutions such as orphanages and retirement homes, as well as distribution points covering multiple villages and camps in the Holy City.

Later Saturday evening, the Agency launched in the village of Nabi Samuel, located on the outskirts of Al-Quds, a social aid initiative for vulnerable groups during the holy month of Ramadan, fully funded by the Kingdom of Morocco.

This initiative targets orphans and needy families, as well as individuals affiliated with social and charitable institutions, school guardians, and servants of the Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque.

The food aid, delivered directly to beneficiaries homes, includes 22 essential food products, along with vital nutritional supplements that families require during Ramadan. The aid is sufficient for the entire month of Ramadan.

Under the 1446 Ramadan program in Al-Quds, the Agency plans to distribute more than 30,000 hot meals, at a rate of 1,000 meals per day.

The meals provided to beneficiaries are prepared at distribution points in full compliance with health standards, under the direct supervision of the Agencys office in Al-Quds, Coordinator of Programs and Projects at the Agency, Ismail Ramli, told MAP.

Ramli also highlighted that the food aid provided to needy inhabitants of Al-Quds is part of the role played by the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency for over a quarter of a century, under the direct supervision of King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, to improve the socio-economic conditions of Al-Quds residents and support their resilience.

On Thursday, the Agency inaugurated the newly renovated courtyards of Al-Quds Universitys campus in Beit Hanina, following development and rehabilitation work at a cost of approximately $395,000.
Namibia laid its founding father Sam Nujoma to rest Saturday at Heroes Acre, marking what President Nangolo Mbumba called the end of an era for both the nation and continent. The revered independence leader, who died last month at 95, was eulogized as a giant among leaders who bestowed the most precious gift of freedom upon his people.

Thousands gathered before dawn at the national memorial grounds outside Windhoek, waving flags and singing liberation anthems including the poignant Sam Ouli Peni? (Sam, Where are you?) The state funeral drew regional dignitaries including the presidents of Angola, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, underscoring Nujomas continental significance.

We are not only mourning today, we are celebrating an extraordinary leader who has contributed significantly to our countrys independence, reflected mourner Given Shiyukifein as Nujomas flag-draped coffin arrived by military gun carriage from the capital.

Born to peasant farmers, Nujoma developed his political consciousness while working on railways in the late 1940s. He subsequently founded the South West Africa Peoples Organization (Swapo) in the 1960s and spearheaded the resistance against South Africas apartheid rule, which had extended its racist policies to then-South West Africa.

As Namibias first presidentserving 15 years until 2005Nujoma established a legacy of stability through national reconciliation. His policies encouraged the white communitys continued participation in agriculture and commerce while championing progressive social measures, including groundbreaking legislation requiring financial support for children born outside marriage.

Nujomas passing represents the final chapter for a generation of African liberation leaders who transformed colonial territories into independent nations, leaving an indelible mark on the continents political landscape.
A groundbreaking investigation has finally identified the lethal chemical compounds within kush, the synthetic drug devastating communities across Sierra Leone and neighboring West African nations. The Global Initiative against Transnational Organized Crime conducted unprecedented laboratory testing, revealing that this rapidly spreading substance contains either nitazenes or synthetic cannabinoidsboth highly potent and addictive compounds.

These findings represent a watershed moment in understanding West Africas evolving drug crisis. Nitazenes, particularly alarming in their potency, have already transformed drug markets and mortality statistics in Europe, where they contributed to 48% of drug-related deaths in Estonia and 28% in Latvia during 2023. Researchers discovered that one nitazene variant in kush exhibits potency 25 times greater than fentanyl, explaining the catastrophic health impacts observed throughout affected communities.

Sierra Leones President Julius Maada Bio has formally declared war against this epidemic, establishing a dedicated task force that bridges prevention, treatment, law enforcement, and community engagement strategies. This multi-pronged approach acknowledges the complex social and public health dimensions of the crisis rather than viewing it solely as a criminal matter.

The report highlights a significant evolution in trafficking methods. While kush initially arrived as a finished product, manufacturers now increasingly import precursor chemicals from China through online marketplaces, establishing clandestine laboratories in Freetown. These operations transform raw chemicals into psychoactive liquids that are sprayed onto plant material for smokingcreating an increasingly deadly product as formulations change and potency increases.

Despite persistent rumors about kush containing tramadol or human remains, careful scientific analysis found no evidence supporting these claims. The verified compounds, however, represent the first documented appearance of nitazenes in West African drug markets, mirroring the alarming global surge in nitazene detection and associated fatalities since late 2022.
Morocco, represented by the Moroccan Society of Radiology (SMR), was the first Arab and African guest of honor at the 2025 European Congress of Radiology (ECR), held in Vienna from Feb. 26 to March 2.

Moroccos participation featured four conferences under the theme Radiology in Morocco: From Science and Culture through Social Responsibility and Pedagogy.

Topics included the Al Haouz earthquake, the use of simulation in radiology education, and Moroccos cultural heritage.

SMR President Najat Cherif Idrissi El Ganouni, Siham Salam, Ghizlaine Lembarki, and Nadia Moussali delivered the presentations.

The conference also addressed social radiology through Dar Zhor, an association that promotes cancer awareness and supports medical imaging research and interventional radiology in southern Morocco.

The Moroccan pavilion, held by the SMR, showcased Moroccos radiology advancements and cultural heritage. It attracted radiologists, students, and industry professionals, highlighting the country as a hub for collaboration, peace, and dialogue.

Participants honored Moroccan radiologists and recognized SMRs contributions to scientific progress, particularly in Africa.

Beyond training radiology students and specialists, SMR promotes South-South cooperation, particularly in Africa, to advance the radiology sector.

The European Congress of Radiology is Europes largest radiology conference and the worlds second-largest after the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in Chicago.

The annual conference attracts more than 10,000 participants and 8,000 industry professionals, including medical equipment suppliers and digital imaging providers.
Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency launched on Sunday at Al-Quds University the Chair of Moroccan Studies, a new academic specialty meant to promote academic exchanges and the influence of Moroccan culture and civilization in Palestine.

The launch ceremony was attended by Director of the Rabat-based Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency, Mohamed Salem Cherkaoui, President of Al-Quds University, Hanna Abdennour, the Chairs President, Safae Nasser Eddine, and several researchers and students.

The creation of this new academic chair will help Palestinian students immerse themselves in the many facets of the Kingdoms cultural and civilizational heritage, which has always upheld the values of union, freedom, justice and peace.

The Chairs studies will focus on analyzing the social ties and solidarity uniting Morocco and Palestine, within the framework of a platform illustrating their historical, human, cultural and civilizational relations.

Speaking during the ceremony, President of Al-Quds University, Hanna Abdennour, stressed that the aim of this initiative is not only to bolster various aspects of cultural exchanges between the academic communities of the two countries, but also to revitalize the age-old historical ties between them, and to enrich and promote the Moroccan cultural presence in Al-Quds, thanks to high-quality research and studies.

For his part, Cherkaoui announced that the Moroccan Cultural Centre will host the headquarters of the Chairs administration, pending completion of the layout of the premises dedicated to it on the university campus.

the Chairs President, Safae Nasser Eddine, described the Chair as an effective means of strengthening communication between Moroccan and Palestinian academics and intellectuals, and expressed hope that it will serve as a model for cultural exchange between countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and as a platform for exchanging ideas and promoting the values of justice, dignity, and tolerance between different civilizations and cultures.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is standing firm against mounting international pressure to hold direct talks with the M23 rebel group, despite the groups significant territorial gains in the eastern part of the country.

Since January, the M23, which is accused of receiving support from neighboring Rwanda, has captured key cities like Goma and Bukavu, intensifying the ongoing conflict. Over 8,500 lives have been lost, and hundreds of thousands have been displaced. Amid calls from international powers such as the UK and the UN for an inclusive dialogue, DRC prime minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka emphasized that her government would only negotiate with Rwanda, which it accuses of backing M23 rebels. Rwandas role has come under increased scrutiny, with reports of Rwandan troops allegedly aiding the M23 fighters and illegally exploiting mineral deposits in eastern DRC, a claim Kigali denies.

The conflict has already drawn in regional actors, with Uganda deploying troops to northeast DRC in response to violence by local militias, including the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO). The DRCs firm stance on negotiations has resulted in escalating tensions, as Rwanda dismisses the calls to withdraw its troops and engages in heated exchanges with the international community. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis worsens, with over 60,000 Congolese refugees fleeing to neighboring Burundi for safety. As regional powers continue to maneuver in this volatile situation, the potential for a wider regional conflict looms large.
As South Africa and possibly also other continental states face the real possibility of being expelled from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a United States Trade Act, experts are urging them to diversify their export markets.

Wamkele Mene, secretary-general of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, addressed concerns at a recent AfCFTA private sector roundtable in Johannesburg. Mene pointed to Ethiopias successful pivot to China after its AGOA expulsion in 2022, demonstrating that South Africa could similarly expand its trade relations with African and Chinese markets. While the potential loss of AGOA would harm key sectors in South Africa, such as automotive, food, and clothing exports, Mene emphasized that these challenges could be turned into opportunities. He suggested leveraging the AfCFTA to enhance intra-African trade, which remains underdeveloped due to infrastructural and logistical barriers. This is what all of us, I believe, should work towards  a diversified export market through the AfCFTA, Mene said.

Tensions between South Africa and the United States, particularly over the Expropriation Act and foreign policy differences, have heightened concerns about the expulsion. AGOA is set to expire in September this year, unless president Donald Trump agrees to extend it. If AGOA ends, South Africa risks losing more than $55 billion in non-crude exports. However, since South Africa was not the only country under threat of AGOA expulsion, Mene said, there was reason to believe the entire program might be scrapped altogether or otherwise redrawn with more reciprocation demanded by the US. Yet, Mene remains optimistic, encouraging businesses to pursue new markets through the AfCFTA, which promises to reduce trade barriers and facilitate smoother transactions across the continent.
Some forty countries have reaffirmed on Monday their support for Moroccos full sovereignty over its Sahara during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC), held until April 4 at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

In a statement delivered by Ali Mohamed Saeed Majawar, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Yemen in Geneva, the group highlighted Moroccos constructive, voluntary, and profound interaction with the United Nations human rights system.

Morocco has been engaged for many years in constructive, voluntary, and profound interaction with the United Nations human rights system, in particular the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), for the promotion and respect of human rights throughout its entire territory, stated Saeed Majawar in the statement under Item 2 of the sessions agenda.

The Security Council, in its resolutions on the Sahara issue, welcomes the role played by the National and Regional Human Rights Commissions in Dakhla and Laayoune and the interaction between Morocco and the mechanisms under the special procedures of the United Nations Human Rights Council, the statement recalled.

In its statement, the group of supporters welcomed the opening, by many countries, of consulates in the cities of Dakhla and Laayoune, deeming the move as a lever for strengthening economic cooperation and investments, for the benefit of local populations as well as regional and continental development.

The Sahara issue is a political dispute handled by the Security Council that recognizes the preeminence of the Autonomy Initiative presented by Morocco as credible and serious for a definitive political solution to this regional dispute over the Sahara.

In this respect, the group reaffirmed its support for the efforts aimed at relaunching the political process on the basis of the format established during the two round tables in Geneva, in accordance with Security Council resolutions, in particular the latest resolution 2756 of October 31st, 2024, aimed at achieving a political, realistic, pragmatic, lasting, and compromise-based solution to this regional dispute.

The resolution of this regional dispute will contribute to achieving the legitimate aspirations of the African and Arab peoples in terms of integration and development, which is considered an objective that Morocco continues to pursue and for which it makes earnest and ongoing efforts, the Yemeni diplomat pointed out.
Morocco reaffirmed on Monday before the UN Human Rights Council its commitment and readiness to promote respect for human rights.

The renewed commitment was expressed by Omar Zniber, Moroccos Permanent Representative to the UN Office at Geneva, during the ongoing 58th session of HRC, which runs until April 4.

It is in this spirit that Morocco, as a core state of the initiative on the Convention against Enforced Disappearances, alongside Argentina, France, and Samoa, has presented two major national commitments, said the Moroccan diplomat.

These commitments include the organization, in Morocco, of a regional symposium to promote ratification of the Convention and implementation of its provisions and the inclusion of enforced disappearance in criminal legislation as an independent crime and a crime against humanity, added the ambassador, who was delivering Moroccos statement under item 02 of the sessions agenda.

In addition, Morocco, in partnership with Paraguay and Portugal, has been active in giving substance to the initiative to create the International Network of National Mechanisms for the Implementation, Reporting, and Monitoring of Human Rights by hosting, last October, the 10th edition of the Glion Dialogue on Human Rights, which culminated in the adoption of the Marrakech Policy Framework for the creation and development of effective national mechanisms, and by organizing, last week, a high-level panel on the consolidation of this network, he continued.

The diplomat also indicated that during the current session, and in line with its efforts to promote womens diplomacy in human rights, Morocco, together with other partners, will introduce a draft resolution aimed at institutionalizing the celebration in Geneva of International Womens Day in Diplomacy.

The ambassador affirmed further that Morocco is resolutely pursuing the process of consolidating its legal arsenal for the promotion of human rights.

2024 saw the launch of the process to revise the Family Code, one of the Kingdoms major reforms, using a well-considered, balanced approach that combines the preservation of national identity with adaptation to social transformations and international commitments in the field of human rights, he added.

In addition, and to provide Morocco with a modern legal framework in line with the best international human rights standards, drafts of the Penal Code and the law on criminal procedure are currently the subject of constructive debate between the government, parliamentarians, and professionals in the sector, Zniber stated.

The diplomat also mentioned the adoption of the organic law defining the conditions and modalities for exercising the right to strike and the entry into force of the law on alternative sentencing, which are now essential to meet the contemporary imperatives of penal policy.
Under royal instructions, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Princess Lalla Khadija launched this Monday the national Ramadan 1446 campaign in Rabat.

This act of generosity, which bears high significance during this blessed month and which has become a tradition for over 25 years, reflects the constant high solicitude of the King towards populations in socially vulnerable situations and underscores the values of humanity, solidarity, mutual aid, and sharing, which are characteristic of Moroccan society.

Under the Ramadan 1446 campaign, which required a total budget of 330 million dirhams, some 34,280 tons of food products (flour, milk, rice, oil, sugar, tomato paste, vermicelli, lentils, and tea) will be distributed to provide aid and comfort to the most vulnerable social categories, particularly widows, the elderly, and people with disabilities.

This year, 74% of the beneficiary households of the operation live in rural areas across 1,054 communes, out of a total of 1,304 targeted communes across the entire national territory.

Furthermore, in accordance with the royal guidelines, this years edition will be marked by the use, for the first time, of the Unified Social Register (RSU), as updated by the Interior Ministry, to draw the lists of the households to benefit from the food support operation.

This national information system was implemented by the Ministry of the Interior to allow social support programs to determine the eligibility of households based on objective socio-economic criteria.

The national Ramadan 1446 campaign, organized with the financial support of the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs, aligns with the humanitarian program led by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, which aims to provide support to those most in need and at the same time promote a culture of solidarity.

To ensure the smooth running of this campaign, thousands of people are mobilized, supported by social workers and volunteers, at distribution points set up across the national territory.

The implementation of this initiative is also subject to oversight by two committees, one local and the other provincial, that monitor the supply of distribution centers and the distribution of food products on the ground.

The social services of the Royal Armed Forces, the Royal Gendarmerie, and several ministerial departments and public institutions also provide support to the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity to ensure the smooth running of this solidarity operation.

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) oversee the quality control of the distributed food products.

During the operation launch ceremony, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan and Princess Lalla Khadija symbolically handed over food baskets to 20 heads or representatives of families benefiting from the aid campaign.
Self-professed free-speech absolutist Elon Musk. Photo: Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

In the 2010s, a certain kind of social-justice activist took a hard turn against the mainstream media. The rancor was of a different flavor than the Chomskyan critiques of corporate media and the consent it allegedly manufactured. It wasnt so much that conventional journalists were too moderate for them and not sympathetic enough to their causes, though that explained some of their anger. It was more that the concept of journalism itself  independent reporters appearing at public events to gather facts, speak to individuals, and take photographs  was somehow a threat to these activists well-being.

This sentiment might have been best encapsulated by Melissa Click, a University of Missouri communications professor who tried, a decade ago, to forcibly stop a student journalist from filming a racial-justice protest on campus. Caught on-camera asking for muscle to block the student who was merely recording a public event, Click became emblematic of the woke left run amok. She would apologize, but the controversy represented more than one hotheaded professor attempting to foolishly police the coverage of one campus protest.

Rather, it spoke to a growing consensus among a certain segment of the activist class that media coverage itself could be harmful or even destructive. First Amendment concerns and the concept of a public domain had to be, suddenly, subordinate to the feelings of individual activists. The lefts growing skepticism of free speech as an inherent value  even the ACLU had evolved from an organization that defended the right of the Ku Klux Klan to march in public to one that, during Donald Trumps first term, began to reject the argument that the right wing needed civil-liberties protections  paved the way for conservatives to reinvent themselves as First Amendment warriors, or at least those more committed to free expression.

Now, with Trump ascendant and Elon Musk dominating both the website formerly known as Twitter and the federal bureaucracy itself, conservatives have begun to adopt many of the same pathologies as the old social-justice class. Conventional journalism that identifies the members of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) or exposed who might be the mother of Musks latest child is reimagined as a grievous attack on a weaker, more vulnerable party that needs special protection  or what might have been called, not so long ago, a safe space.

Reporting on DOGE, for example, has been recast as doxing, even though the young engineers and activists recruited to aid Musks efforts are performing extraordinarily public work, implementing cuts and staffing changes that impact tens of thousands of federal employees and alter how most Americans interact with a government funded with their tax dollars. The so-called New York Times outs 45 people working for DOGE, fumed Byron York, the chief political correspondent for the conservative Washington Examiner, in response to a Times report identifying by name numerous members of Musks DOGE team.

The writer Geoff Shullenberger has referred to this trend as the bizarro awokening, with complaints of doxing replacing what was, on the old liberal Twitter of the 2010s, typically tagged as harassment. Before Musk bought Twitter and renamed it X, the platform was remarkably influential with activists, celebrities, politicians, pundits, and journalists, many of them on the left. There was an aristocracy of verified blue checks who could wield their clout to blast those who went against whatever popular consensus existed at the moment. That aristocracy, thanks to Musk, is largely dead, swapped for conservatives who have mostly paid for blue-check verification badges and parrot whatever Musk and Trump spew out. They are no more committed to free expression than the woke left and furiously try to stamp out any criticism lodged at their dear leaders. Just as Twitter did eventually become real life, the manias of X now bleed out into the physical world: The president of NYUs chapter of the College Republicans was forced to resign earlier this month after she was quoted telling Vanity Fair that Barron Trump was sort of like an oddity on campus. Cancel culture lives!

As Trump inevitably falters  his poll numbers are already slipping, and if Republicans enact devastating social-safety-net cuts, Democrats will have plenty to campaign on in the midterms  expect conservatives to further close ranks and panic, straining to stamp out whatever dissent they find in their midst. The witch hunts for anything resembling DEI are already more extreme than any of the liberal speech policing found at the height of the social-justice era. One college in Michigan has already preemptively banned readings from a variety of non-white writers (as well as George Orwell, ironically enough) out of fear that the Trump administration might pull their federal funding.

The dispiriting reality of our contemporary political discourse is that neither ideological faction cares much for free expression. The values inherent in the First Amendment are trampled on or outright discarded whenever it becomes convenient for one political party. Perhaps, in time, there will be a shift and these sort of destructive inanities will come to an end. Its all quite exhausting, at the very least.
Last year, Chinas renewable energy sales and investments hit a record 13.6tn yuan ($1.9tn), dwarfing the global fossil fuel funding total of $1.12 trillion. Chinas installed capacity for renewable energy, including wind and solar, reached 1,410 gigawatts, surpassing coal. China has become especially dominant in solar energy manufacturing, having invested 10 times more than Europe in wafer-to-solar panel production lines and controls ~95% of the worlds polysilicon and wafers. China is, however, equally dominant in wind energy and currently operates almost half of the world's installed offshore wind turbines, with 26 GW of a total of 54 GW worldwide. It is, therefore, hardly surprising that Asias largest economy is also home to some of the most impressive feats of engineering in the renewable energy sector. Chinas Dongfang Electric Corporation has rolled out a 26-megawatt (MW) offshore wind turbine, the worlds largest in both capacity and size. The state-owned manufacturer says the turbine boasts a blade wheel diameter of more than 310 meters (1,107 feet) and a hub height of 185 meters (607 feet). This offshore wind turbine is designed for areas with wind speeds of 8 meters per second and above. One of these giants is capable of generating 100 GWh of power annually with average winds of 10 meters per second, enough to power 55,000 homes. Thats enough to cut standard coal consumption by 30,000 tons and reduce CO2 emissions by 80,000 tons. Related: Petrobras Gears Up for Offshore Boom



The project marks a turning point in the global energy transition. Offshore wind turbines can be built far out at sea, where winds blow harder, making them an ideal solution to the clean energy mix that doesn't take up valuable land.

Trumps offshore wind energy freeze

Unfortunately, Americas wind energy sector is now officially in limbo in Trump's second term in the Oval Office. In a highly controversial move that sent shockwaves through the clean energy sector, Trump issued an executive order on his first day back in the White House that effectively halted the growth of wind energy in the U.S. The sweeping order freezes approvals for both onshore and offshore projects, pauses offshore wind lease sales and calls for a comprehensive review of existing wind energy leases. This move has created significant uncertainty about the future of wind energy in the U.S., and drawn widespread criticism from environmental groups, industry stakeholders and renewable energy advocates.

The uncertainty is further compounded by the potential economic fallout. Wind power currently supplies 10% of U.S. electricity, and is currently one of the most cost-effective energy sources at approximately $27 per megawatt-hour. In comparison, gas plants have a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of ~$45 per megawatt-hour, while coal plants generate electricity at $69 per megawatt-hour. A suspension of wind energy development is likely to jeopardize this cost advantage, leading to higher energy and electricity prices.

Trumps disdain for wind energy is well documented. Previously, Trump went on a bizarre tirade, labeling wind turbines as windmills and the biggest bird slayers, so his latest stance against wind energy might not have come as a surprise.

That said, offshore wind energy has been a somewhat tough sell in the U.S. The countrys first offshore wind auction in the Gulf of Mexico by the Biden administration in 2023 ended with a paltry $5.6 million winning bid, highlighting just how tough it can be for renewables to gain traction in oil and gas strongholds. Germany's RWE was the winner of rights to 102,480 acres (41,472 hectares) off Louisiana. This marked the lowest winning bid for a federal offshore wind lease at auction since the Obama administration. The other two lease areas on offer off Texas received no bids. The Biden administration had set a goal to deploy 30 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind by 2030, and the three Gulf leases combined had the potential to deliver more than 10% of that amount.

Although the Gulfs waters havent sprouted any wind turbines yet, there are several reasons why the Gulf of Mexico is a perfect fit as an offshore wind hub.

First off, the Gulf Coast also has an abundance of companies and workers with decades of experience in producing energy offshore. According to the Energy Information Administration, Gulf of Mexico federal offshore oil production accounts for 15% of total U.S. crude oil production. Major fields include Eugene Island block 330 oil field, Atlantis Oil Field, and the Tiber oilfield (discovered 2009) while notable oil platforms include Baldpate, Bullwinkle, Mad Dog, Magnolia, Mars, Petronius, and Thunder Horse.

We have a really mature base for energy. Weve got the know-how, Lefton said. The people, the companies, the manufacturers that know how to do [Outer Continental Shelf] energy development are in the Gulf of Mexico, the Interior Departments Bureau of Ocean Energy Management director Amanda Lefton has told Politico.

According to Hayes Framme, government relations manager for North America at Danish wind giant rsted A/S (OTCPK:DNNGY), the Gulfs existing oil and gas infrastructure represents a historic expertise.

One of the things that makes the Gulf area attractive is the fact that youve got a workforce that is accustomed to working on rigs in the ocean. Its not like you have to build an industry. What you have to do here is basically help an existing industry evolve, Dennis Arriola, CEO of the renewable energy company Avangrid Inc. (NYSE:AGR), has said.

Michael Hecht, the president and CEO of Greater New Orleans, says jobs in the Gulfs traditional oil and gas industry have declined during the past decade, creating a sense of urgency to make a transition that allows people to retain their skills.

The Gulf could also become an important hydrogen hub, with wind power being used to generate green hydrogen to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from industries such as long-haul trucking, fertilizer manufacturing and aviation.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The debate around subsidies should include all energy sectors, including renewable energy, to ensure a fair and balanced approach to energy policy.

Oil companies contribute billions of dollars in various taxes and employ millions of people, significantly contributing to the economy.

The article explains that oil companies primarily receive tax breaks, not direct subsidies, and these tax breaks are similar to those given to other industries.

Let me state up front that I am a fan of Jon Stewart. I watched The Daily Show for years. He calls attention to many important issues, and he is a formidable debater.

But Stewart recently made a claim on his show that promotes a common misconception: How about we just take $3 billion in subsidies we give to oil and gas companies that turn billions in profits?

Its a statement that sounds damningbut is it accurate? While this claim resonates with many, it misrepresents how the oil and gas industry operates in relation to government support. The notion that oil companies receive massive handouts distorts public perception and fuels unnecessary animosity toward the sector. In reality, there is a massive flow of money from these oil companies to federal, state, and local governmentsnot the other way around.

Understanding Subsidies in Context

When most people hear the word subsidy, they imagine the government handing over large sums of money to corporations. However, what oil companies receive are tax breakssimilar to those granted to many other industries. These tax deductions allow businesses to recover costs related to production, infrastructure, and operational expenses.

A true subsidy is when the government directly hands money to a company. A tax deduction, on the other hand, simply reduces what a company owesjust like how individuals deduct mortgage interest or student loan payments from their taxes.

In return, oil and gas companies contribute billions of dollars in taxes annually. For example, ExxonMobil alone paid $13.8 billion in income taxes in 2024. Additionally, these companies pay severance taxes, royalties, property taxes, and more, all of which generate significant revenue for governments. Further, the oil industry employs millions, who in turn pay income and property taxes. Dismissing these contributions while solely focusing on tax breaks creates a misleading narrative.

Imagine that you, as a taxpayer, are allowed to deduct certain items from your taxes. Would you agree that the government is giving you subsidies? Probably not. You probably feel that your taxes are subsidizing the government and allowing you deductions to lower your tax bill isnt exactly what most consider to be a subsidy.

Is Military Protection a Subsidy?

Another argument raised with me in a recent Facebook discussion was that oil companies benefit from the U.S. military securing global supply lines. While its true that military presence in oil-rich regions has historically helped maintain market stability, this subsidy benefits consumers far more than oil companies.

For decades, U.S. policymakers have prioritized low gasoline prices as a means of economic stability. Military actions aimed at securing oil trade routes help ensure price stability, which ultimately helps American consumers avoid economic shocks from supply disruptions. If oil companies controlled pricing, they would simply charge whatever the market could bear.

To illustrate, consider what happened when Russia invaded Ukraine. President Biden ordered the largest release in history from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Was this an effort to help Big Oil? Of course not. It was meant to control rising gasoline prices because politicians who preside over rising fuel prices risk losing elections.

The Externalities Debate

Another common argument is that oil companies benefit from not paying for the full environmental costs of carbon emissions and pollution. Theres no denying that fossil fuel use results in external costs, from rising carbon emissions to health impacts. However, framing this solely as a subsidy to oil companies ignores the reality that consumers also benefit from artificially low energy prices.

If these externalities were fully priced into the cost of gasoline, there would likely be widespread political upheaval. Governments would face intense backlash, as weve seen historically whenever fuel taxes increase. Politicians are acutely aware that rising gas prices lead to public dissatisfaction and electoral consequences. As a result, while its true that oil companies profit from the current structure, its equally true that consumers are the primary beneficiaries of the status quo.

The Political Reality of Energy Policy

Calls to eliminate subsidies for oil companies often fail to acknowledge the broader economic implications. If these tax breaks were removed, companies wouldnt simply absorb the costthey would pass it along to consumers. Gasoline prices would rise, and the public would demand government intervention, likely leading to new policies that offset these costs in other ways.

Moreover, oil companies are not unique in receiving tax incentives. Renewable energy companies also receive substantial government support, including direct subsidies, tax credits, and grants. If the goal is to create a fair and competitive energy market, discussions around subsidies should include all industriesnot just oil and gas.

Final Thoughts

The notion that oil companies are being handed billions of dollars in government subsidies is misleading. They, like other industries, benefit from tax structures designed to encourage investment and job creation. They also pay substantial taxes and provide millions of jobs that contribute to the economy.

If we are serious about addressing rising carbon emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources, the focus should be on pricing externalities appropriately and ensuring a balanced approach to energy policy. However, reducing the discussion to simplistic claims about subsidies does little to advance meaningful debate.

If the goal is a fair, competitive energy market, then all industriesincluding renewablesshould be scrutinized for the incentives they receive and the benefits they provide. Oversimplifying the debate wont lead to smarter policyjust more misinformation.

By Robert Rapier

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The European Commission has introduced an Action Plan to save 2.5 trillion in energy bills over the next 15 years, addressing the rising energy poverty affecting 47 million people in the EU.

Three years after Russia invaded Ukraine, the European Union is still dealing with the economic fallout. The resulting energy crisis has continued to reverberate through European markets, and blisteringly high energy bills are drastically impacting consumers throughout the block. It is estimated that approximately 47 million people in EU countries are currently living in energy poverty, a 57% increase since 2019.

While energy poverty has no universal definition, the term is commonly used to refer to households that cannot afford to meet their basic energy

eeds (such as heating their homes in frigid and even dangerous winter temperatures), or to those who spend an unreasonably high amount of their income on household energy bills.

Rising rates of energy poverty across Europe are seriously hurting households, but they are also posing a major threat to Europes economy writ large, and making European enterprises less competitive on the global market. In response to these intensifying issues, the European Commission, which functions as the executive branch of the European union, has introduced a plan to save a total of 2.5 trillion in energy bills over the next 15 years.

The Action Plan outlines steps to bring short-term relief to consumers while continuing to decrease its dependence on energy imports (most notably Russian oil and gas) through the completion of the European Energy Union by fully integrating the blocs electricity system, alongside other related measures. It aims to do this by frontloading the benefits of more renewable energy, energy savings, deeper market integration and better interconnections.

We're driving energy prices down and competitiveness up, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. We have already significantly reduced energy prices in Europe by doubling down on renewables. Now, we are going a step further with the Affordable Energy Action Plan as part of our Clean Industrial Deal. With it, we will achieve more predictable prices, stronger connections across Europe, and increased energy offtake. We will systematically remove remaining obstacles so that we can build a true Energy Union."

The European Unions expansion of renewable energy capacity has skyrocketed since the Russian invasion of Ukraine as the bloc has tried to source more energy from within its own borders. As the continent has tried to wean itself off of Russian fossil fuel imports, solar and wind have emerged as strategic investment sectors. When the invasion occurred in February 2022, Germany  Europes largest economy  was dependent on the Kremlin for more than half of its natural gas and a third of its oil. Now, just three years later, Germany is set to derive 20% of its energy from solar power.

However, there are still major hurdles to continue the expansion of renewables in Europe. For one thing, the rapid addition of variable energies without sufficient supportive infrastructure (such as energy storage and grid connectivity) can cause grid volatility and even negative energy prices, which are great for consumers but not so great for investors. The planned doubling down on renewable energy proposed by the European Commissions new Action Plan will therefore require measures to address these challenges, as well as significant alterations to current regulatory mechanisms that can cause long delays on adding new renewable capacity and related infrastructure.

"Renewable energy is much cheaper than the fossil alternative. So that will bring the prices down, the EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing told Euronews this week. He also emphasized that better connectivity in European electricity grids, and more grids in general, will also help to relieve energy poverty. Also, if we are better connected in Europe  our electricity system, so we have more grids, we are more interconnected, that will bring down the prices as well. And finally, he went on to say, the gas market, they need to be better controlled so that we make sure that they don't have profits that are too high."

By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com

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At the end of a conversation last Tuesday that could well have begun with the words Listen, buddy Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani suddenly found himself very much in agreement with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubios idea that the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline (ITP) should be reopened quickly. In what was exclusively described by a senior Washington legal source to OilPrice.com as a very frank conversation, Rubio also impressed upon al-Sudani the importance the U.S. attaches to Iraq becoming energy independent and to paying U.S. firms working in Iraq what they are owed. In sum, Washington wants Baghdad to finally stop importing gas and electricity from Iran to meet its power needs. It also wants it to immediately permit all Iraqi oil flows to Turkey  including those currently banned from the semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan. And it demands that Baghdad pay the firms that are working on increasing Iraqs oil and gas production what they are owed. If Iraq does all of this, it will receive a lot more investment from the U.S. If it does not, then there will be no further investment and sanctions will be slapped on it, which can be laddered up in severity very quickly indeed. Suffice it to say, al-Sudani has probably had better days.

The frankness of Rubios delivery may well have been a function of the migraine-inducing intransigence and economic damage associated with the near two-year embargo placed by the Baghdad-based Federal Government of Iraq (FGI) on independent oil exports from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) centred in Erbil. These flows into Turkey were stopped on 25 March 2023 after the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ordered Ankara to pay the FGI US$1.5 billion in damages for these allegedly unauthorised oil exports. It may also have been prompted by very recent comments from Iraqi Parliaments Foreign Affairs Committee member Mukhtar Al-Mousawi that: Blatant interference [from the U.S. State Department] in Iraqs internal affairs [the ongoing ITP oil embargo],  cannot be ignored and must be formally rejected by the relevant government bodies, parliament, and political forces. He had equally unwisely added: The financial and oil disputes between Baghdad and Erbil are internal matters, and no external party should interfere as such involvement only exacerbates the disagreements, so the U.S. State Department must avoid meddling. The meddling of which he spoke was an earlier well-meaning and very politely delivered message from U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller that Washington would like to see the (historically pro-West) Erbil and (more pro-China) Baghdad reach a sustainable agreement on budgetary issues that would facilitate sustained oil production in the Kurdistan Region.

Related: Northwest Europe Power Prices Plunge Below Zero on Strong Solar Output

As al-Sudani will now understand, the U.S. does not appreciate being told it is meddling by a country to which it has given tens of billions of dollars in crucial budget assistance and other payments over the years. It takes an even dimmer view of being repeatedly lied to by successive Iraqi administrations which have pledged that in exchange for temporary waivers on energy imports from Iran being granted by Washington, they will very soon reduce these gas and electricity imports down from the regular 40% level to zero, as detailed in my latest book on the new global oil market order. The apotheosis of this cycle of lies came in March last year when Iraq signed the longest-ever deal (five years) with Iran to keep importing its oil and gas. The U.S.s response to this was the imposition of a raft of sanctions on Iraq itself, beginning with Washington citing several Iraqi persons and institutions as being instruments in the funnelling of money to Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) elite Quds Force, which was true. It added that the entities were continuing to exploit Iraqs dependence on Iran as an electricity and gas source by smuggling Iranian petroleum through the Iraqi port of Umm Qasr and money laundering through Iraqi front companies, which was also true. And it concluded that it was extremely concerned that Iraq was continuing to act as a conduit for Iranian oil and gas supplies to make their way out into the worlds major export markets. This was true as well, as additionally analysed in my new book on the new global oil market order.

More broadly, the U.S. and its key allies want the Kurdistan Region of Iraq to terminate all links with Chinese, Russian and Iranian companies connected to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps over the long term, a senior source who works closely with the European Unions (E.U.) energy security complex exclusively told OilPrice.com recently. This could then be used as a bridgehead to re-assert the Wests influence into the rest of Iraq through big investment deals firstly and then related infrastructure developments, he added. One such deal that might act as a template for renewed cooperation between the West and Baghdad is BPs US$25 billion deal formally signed last week to develop four huge oil fields in the Kirkuk region. The ownership of oil in this area has been in dispute since Islamic State (IS) overran the region in 2014. Before that  and again now  Baghdad claimed authority over oil produced there, while in the interim period Erbil said it had authority, as its forces had seized the land back from IS. The U.S. and Israel also have a further strategic interest in utilising the Kurdistan Region as a base for ongoing monitoring operations against Iran, according to the E.U. source.

On the other side of the equation, China and Russia have long been core sponsors of the Federal Government of Iraq, along with neighbouring Iran, and have been powerful forces behind the idea of subsuming the KRI into the wider Iraq. As a senior political source in Moscow exclusively told OilPrice.com many months ago: Iraq will be one unified country and by keeping the West out of energy deals there, the end of Western hegemony in the Middle East will become the decisive chapter in the Wests final demise. A core part of the strategy is to strip the Kurdistan Region of its primary source of financing, which remains oil exports. The first phase of this involved failing to reliably make the budget payments from Baghdad that were supposed to be made in exchange for oil coming from Iraqi Kurdistan. The second element was to step up the pace and scale of litigation against foreign oil firms that continued to operate in the semi-autonomous region to deter them from selling the oil produced there. The third part was to do nothing of consequence to have the blockade on independent oil sales from Iraqi Kurdistan to Turkey removed, although there have been several avenues open to do so from the beginning on the embargo. And the final element was to rollout the new unified oil law -- run in every meaningful respect out of Baghdad  and roll-up Iraqi Kurdistan into the rest of Iraq once and for all. Given this, it should not surprise anyone then that on 3 August last year, then-new Iraq Prime Minister, Mohammed Al-Sudani, clearly stated that the new unified oil law will govern all oil and gas production and investments in both Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan and will constitute a strong factor for Iraqs unity.

As it stands, following last weeks chat between Rubio and al-Sudani, Iraqs Oil Ministry began reenergised discussions with Turkey about the resumption of oil exports through the ITP. Turkey has maintained that it is fully ready to receive such oil. Moreover, the Kurdistan region and the foreign oil firms working there have also now agreed to market the oil produced in the region through Baghdads own State Organization for Marketing of Oil. Having said all of this, even if oil exports do resume through the ITP, history suggests that the process will not run smoothly or last long. From the initial landmark oil-for-budget disbursements deal of November 2014 (17% of Baghdads budget going to Erbil in exchange for around 550,000 bpd of oil from Erbil) to now, no such arrangement has functioned effectively between the two sides. Either Baghdad accuses Erbil of underdelivering oil or Erbil accuses Baghdad of underpaying from the budget or both.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

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The summit in London aimed to reinforce European commitment to Ukraine and to address concerns about the reliability of U.S. support, with some leaders calling for European independence in security matters.

Both Macron and Starmer expressed readiness to deploy troops to Ukraine to support a truce, highlighting the urgency felt by European nations.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a four-step plan for Ukraine, backed by European leaders, committing to ongoing military aid, peace talks, and a post-agreement security coalition.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has unveiled a four-step plan agreed with European leaders and top representatives of NATO and the EU to support Ukraine and show they remain united in the face of Russia's aggression.

The British leader said it was a "time to act" for Europe in ensuring Ukraine's security, backing up his call at a summit in London on March 2 by pledging 1.6 billion pounds ($2 billion) in export financing to supply 5,000 air defense missiles to Kyiv.

The summit agreed that military aid must continue to flow to Ukraine, that Kyiv must be at the table for peace talks with Russia, that Europe work to deter any future Russian moves against Ukraine, and the formation of a "coalition of the willing" that will defend and guarantee peace in Ukraine after a deal is reached.

"We are at a crossroads in history today," Starmer told a news conference after the summit of 19 leaders from across Europe, Canada, and the NATO military alliance.

"This is not a moment for more talk  its time to act and unite around a new plan for a just and enduring peace," Starmer added.

Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron both said they are ready to deploy their troops on Ukrainian soil to help back up any truce reached between Kyiv and Moscow.

France's Le Figaro newspaper quoted Macron as saying in an interview that the two countries would also propose a one-month "limited" truce "in the air, at sea" as it would be difficult to quickly implement a full peace agreement given the length of the front line running through eastern and southern Ukraine.

The summit assumed fresh urgency following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's disastrous visit to Washington earlier this week and growing concerns over the United States' commitment to European defense under President Donald Trump.

Starmer was quick to point out that he believes Washington remains a "reliable ally" that wants to see a lasting peace agreement to end Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine that is now in its fourth year.

The United States did not participate in the London talks. The summit was planned before Zelenskyy and Trump butted heads in a remarkably tense meeting in the Oval Office on February 28.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were among the European leaders who joined Starmer and Zelenskyy for talks on March 2 at the historic Lancaster House near Buckingham Palace in London.

Prior to the summit, Starmer held bilateral talks with Meloni, who could be an important figure in Europe's ongoing attempts to convince Washington of the need to support Ukraine.

A staunch Ukraine supporter, she is also ideologically close to Trump, who has warmly praised her.

Appearing next to Starmer, Meloni said that London and Rome could "play a key role in bridge-building" after the Oval Office face-off, while adding that it was "very, very important" for Western partners to avoid a schism.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and European Council President Antonio Costa also attended the summit.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said the United States and Europe need to show Russian President Vladimir Putin "that the West has no intention of capitulating before his blackmail and aggression."

On the eve of the conference, Starmer welcomed Zelenskyy at his Downing Street residence, followed by the announcement of a 2.26 billion pound ($2.84 billion) loan to Ukraine to enhance its defensive capabilities.

Zelenskyy said on social media that the loan will be repaid using revenues from frozen Russian assets.

Resuscitating the Trump-Zelenskyy relationship was a key item on the summit's agenda with leaders urging a path to restore the relationship after the U.S. president said Zelenskyy could come back to the White House "when he wants peace."

Von der Leyen said after the meeting that "were ready together with you [the United States] to defend democracy, to defend the principle that theres a rule of law that you cannot invade your neighbor or you cannot change borders with force."

"Its in our common interest that we prevent future wars," she added.

Zelenskyy has declined to apologize for the U.S. talks breaking down but said he believed the relationship could still be salvaged.

Even before Zelenskyy's trip to Washington, European leaders had demonstrated a growing sense of urgency to make themselves relevant to the Trump administration.

This was spurred by statements from senior U.S. officials suggesting Europe would not be directly involved in Ukraine peace negotiations -- and by signs of warming U.S. ties with Moscow.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused European countries of seeking "a 'continuation of the banquet' in the form of war."

In comments that Russian media reported on March 2, Lavrov praised Trump as "a pragmatist."

"His slogan: common sense," said Lavrov.

Previous crisis talks in Paris last week focused on whether Europe could muster a credible military force to deploy to Ukraine after a cease-fire or peace deal, as well as a longer-term aim of pledges to boost defense spending.

Some progress was made, but there was no decisive breakthrough announcement.

The challenge for the London talks, after the debacle in the Oval Office, is to achieve something more tangible and impressive.

Alongside this, some European leaders are raising the prospect that this goes beyond proving their worth to Washington. Instead, its about preparing for a possible scenario in which they cannot rely on the U.S. security umbrella.

The winner of the recent German elections, Friedrich Merz, declared a week ago that Europe needed to achieve "independence" from the United States.

After Zelenskyy's Washington trip, German Foreign Minister Annalene Baerbock said she would back measures to help Ukraine "withstand Russia's aggression even if the United States withdraws support."

Here in Britain, Starmer's position has been echoed across the political spectrum. Prominent figures who have been close to Trump urged him not to burn bridges with Zelenskyy.

Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party and vocal Trump admirer, said: "This is not the end of the story, far from it. A peace deal is essential, and Ukraine needs the right security guarantees."

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: "The best way forward now is for the minerals deal to be signed as soon as possible. There is still a path to peace."

He was referring to an agreement that was supposed to be the great diplomatic prize of Zelenskyy's Washington trip, heralding a renewed relationship with the United States.

Those high hopes have been dealt a body blow. In London, leaders are desperately seeking a response.

By RFE/RL

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While some business-style practices can be implemented in government, it is crucial to remember that government's primary goal is to serve all citizens, which may require subsidizing services and accepting some level of inefficiency.

There is a so-called U. S. government "efficiency" drive currently underway delegated by President Donald Trump to unelected billionaire Elon Musk. Whether Musk has the authority to do what he is doing has become a matter for federal courts (for example, see here and here). In this piece I want to discuss the underlying assumption behind Musk's approach and see if it makes sense, namely, whether the government should be run like a business. Spoiler alert: It shouldn't be and can't be.

That's because there are important overarching differences between the goals of government and those of a business that explain why strictly imposing business-style management on government will not work. First and foremost, business owners are allowed to freely make two important choices: 1) which products or services to sell and 2) which customers to target for those products and/or services.

Government, by contrast, does not get to choose either of these. Government must serve all residents of a jurisdiction, whether it is a city, a state or a country, and provide them with goods and services as determined by elected representatives put in office by constituents of that jurisdiction. (I'm assuming a democratic form of government. But even in autocratic regimes, no one person can determine what goods and services are necessary for every locale and so others, appointed or elected, help make and implement those decisions.)

To say that you want government to run just like a business is to say that the government can ignore the directives of elected bodies overseeing them and target narrow segments of the population for various services, only providing those that yield a "profit" from the fees collected from those served.

(I invite to you think about your own experience with companies, especially large ones that have provided poor service and/or lousy products so as to remind yourself that businesses frequently disappoint us and sometimes cheat uswhich is when we want government to protect and help us. It's also wise to remember that corporate bureaucracies can be as frustrating to navigate as government ones. I'm thinking here of health insurers, especially those who try to get out of covering the very health care they promised to pay for.)

It is, of course, rational for business owners to choose to sell only those products and/or services for which their customers will pay prices that yield a profit. Without profit, businesses ultimately fail.

Government, however, provides goods and services determined by elected representatives. That such decision-making is likely to be "inefficient" compared to decisions coming from one person with sweeping, dictatorial powers such as a corporate CEO should not be surprising. But the goal, as I've stated above, is entirely different. It may be "inefficient" to get a group of elected representatives to consider and agree on what products and services (for example, drinking water and police protection) the government will provide to its constituents. But it's very important that they do.

Most of us would not want taxes levied through the decision of one person, especially if that person were not elected to represent us. Likewise, we have a stake in clean, drinkable water. Naturally, we will want a say in what our water rates will be, what investment is made to provide water treatment, and what environmental laws are enacted to protect the purity and safety of the water we drink.

None of this is meant to be an "efficient" decision-making process in the manner of a corporate CEO. Rather, it is meant to reflect the broad consensus of constituents including those owning businesses and not leave such decisions to one person alonewhich strictly speaking would make that person a dictator.

Free societies don't generally entrust decision-making to one person because 1) no one person can possibly represent the wishes of all constituents and 2) we know that power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. In other words, we know human nature, and so we put safeguards in our institutions that prevent bad actors from unilaterally imposing their will on us.

So, does this leave room for the implementation of any business-style practices in government? The answer is yes. Salaries for government employees at nearly every level are generally fixed and cost-of-living raises or raises due to labor agreements or seniority are generally automatic. There have been few ways, except perhaps promotion, to recognize exceptional work. Now, however, many governments offer performance-based rewards for exceptional work. The U. S. Office of Personnel Management offers cash awards to federal employees who exhibit such performance.

Perhaps most the most visible service of the U. S. government is the U. S. Postal Service (USPS), which appears to be the only service prescribed in the U. S. Constitution to be run by the federal government. Because of the nature of this serviceusers pay for mailing services just as they might a private courier and package servicethere have been periodic attempts to streamline the USPS to run more efficiently. The outgoing postmaster has proposed a 10-year plan to reduce costs and increase the postal service's share of the package delivery market. Perhaps the most significant development leading to the long-running financial woes of the USPS is the 42 percent decline in first-class and marketing mail between 2007 and 2022. This mail used to be the bread-and-butter of the postal service. The decline is not surprising in an age characterized by increasing electronic communications and payments.

That the postal service needs to think more like a business is not controversial. But we must also remember that unlike private package and courier services, the USPS is tasked with serving ALL Americans living and working at ALL addresses in the United States and its territories. We should NOT expect the postal service to be consistently profitable given that it must maintain an infrastructure and a sufficient number of employees to reach even to the most faraway and spread-out addresses in rural areas. Think: rural Alaska and Wyoming. It is therefore reasonable to expect that we might subsidize mail delivery so that all Americans can enjoy fair prices for and timely delivery of mail and packages wherever they live.

It is not misguided to want government to be more efficient. It is not misguided to believe that some government programs are just wasteful boondoggles for the most connected. Think: Expensive weapons systems that don't perform as advertised.

But government will never be as efficient as business because it must serve all of us and must do so at the direction of a group of elected officials. It's not necessarily efficient, but it's democratic. And a society without democratically elected leadership is subject to the rule (or misrule) of one person.

By Kurt Cobb via Resource Insights

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Equinor has delayed again the start-up of its Johan Castberg oilfield in the Barents Sea in the Arctic, due to bad weather, a spokesperson for the Norwegian energy major told Reuters on Monday.

This is the second delay to the start-up of the oilfield, after Equinor in December was forced by bad weather to postpone the launch to January or February 2025 from an initial launch date by the end of 2024.

Now the February 2025 deadline has also slipped, amid persistent bad weather in the Arctic waters of the Barents Sea.

We are in the final stretch, but have faced challenges with the weather, which is causing problems for both vessel and helicopter traffic, Equinors spokesperson told Reuters today.

Johan Castberg, a large field in the Barents Sea, has estimated recoverable volumes of between 450 and 650 million barrels of crude oil. The resource base for developing the Johan Castberg field consists of the three oil discoveries: Skrugard, Havis, and Drivis.

The field will produce for 30 years, and at its peak, Johan Castberg will be able to produce 220,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil, Equinor says.

Production will be carried out via a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel, which was anchored on the field in September.

Norway expects its oil liquids production to rise by 5.2% in 2025 from 2024, also thanks to Johan Castberg.

OPEC also considers Norway as one of the producers that would contribute to the rise in oil output from non-OPEC+ countries this year, alongside the United States, Canada, and Brazil.

Yet, further exploration efforts and new discoveries would be crucial to slowing the expected decline in Norways oil and gas production in the 2030s, the authorities of Western Europes largest oil and gas producer have said in recent years.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Kazakhstan has ramped up oil production, with the countrys crude oil and gas condensate--a type of light oil- output hitting a record high of 2.12 million barrels per day in February, good for a 13% increase from January. Excluding gas condensate, crude oil production increased 15.5% m-o-m to 1.83 million bpd.

The OPEC+ member has been able to increase oil output despite damage to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC), its main export route via Russia. Two weeks ago, Russia reported that that CPC capacity was cut by 30-40% after an attack by Ukrainian drones. Its not clear how Kazakhstan has managed to ramp up output despite having constrained export capacity. ?azakhstan relies on CPC for more than 80% of its exports. The surge in output follows a rise in production at the giant Tengiz oilfield, operated by Tengizchevroil, led by Chevron Corp. (NYSE:CVX), which has embarked on a $48 billion expansion of Tengiz. Previously, Reuters reported that Kazakhstan could sharply increase its crude oil exports out of Turkey's port of Ceyhan and dramatically reduce the more than 80% share of flows it currently sends via Russia. According to Kazakhstan Energy Minister Almasadam Satkaliyev, exports via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline could increase to 20 million metric tons a year from the current 1.5 million as the country increases oil production.

Kazakhstan has repeatedly exceeded its OPEC+ output quota of 1.468 million bpd. Last year, Kazakhstan, Russia and Iraq submitted their compensation plans to the OPEC Secretariat for overproduced crude volumes for the first six months of 2024. According to OPEC, the entire over-produced volumes were to be fully compensated over the next 15 months through September 2025, with Kazakhstan paying back a cumulative 620 kb/d, Russia 480 kb/d and Iraq 1,184 kb/d. Many traders are worried that the balance of oil demand growth and non-OPEC+ supply growth might not offset the scale of restored OPEC+ output, leaving oil markets oversupplied when OPEC+ starts scaling back oil production cuts in April. However, commodity analysts at Standard Chartered have pointed out that this view ignores repeated assurances from OPEC+ that the tapering would be fully dependent on market conditions.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

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LINCOLN  Nebraskans were split Monday on a bill that would require all businesses in the state use E-Verify and prohibit them from knowingly hiring an undocumented worker.

The Nebraska Legislatures Business and Labor Committee held a public hearing on Legislative Bill 532, which would mandate all Nebraska employers use E-Verify, a federal website that allows businesses to check whether their prospective employees are eligible to work in the U.S. E-Verify is currently mandatory in Nebraskas public sector but voluntary for private businesses.

State Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omaha, who introduced LB 532, said the measure is unquestionably a win for everyone. Kauth, the committee chair, argued that it would open doors for Nebraskans seeking entry-level jobs that undocumented workers commonly fill and noted that six out of seven U.S. states with the highest GDP growth have similar laws on the books.

In addition, Kauth argued LB 532 would benefit illegal immigrants in Nebraska by reducing the exploitation they may encounter from unethical employers. She noted that undocumented workers often face wage theft, unsafe working conditions and occasionally threats of violence from their employers.

We shouldnt accept anything less than a level playing field for our world-class businesses and workers, Kauth said.

In all, five people testified in support of LB 532 Monday, four spoke in opposition, and two were neutral. In addition, 25 people submitted written comments in support of the bill, while 22 comments were opposed, and two were neutral.

Marilyn Asher, who supported LB 532, said when she and her husband owned a remodeling company in Omaha, they noticed other companies would often hire temporary workers who didnt know English. She said these workers were usually paid in cash, so they didnt have to worry about income taxes. She said that frustrated her since her small business complied with state and federal tax laws.

Our state needs to stand up to the practices of employers who are allowing the erosion of our financial infrastructure by illegally hiring those who do not pay taxes, Asher said.

Jon Nebel, membership development coordinator for Nebraskas electrical workers union, also testified in support of the bill but raised some concerns with it. He referenced concerns shared by State Sen. Jane Raybould of Lincoln that the bill would create administrative challenges for smaller businesses and that often smaller businesses are most likely to hire undocumented workers.

The way the bill is structured, Nebel said it would essentially punish the workers for working. He noted that Nebraskas employment rate is at a near-record low of 2.8%, and suggested the state should instead issue work permits for undocumented employees to prevent businesses from exploiting them.

Others argued E-Verify is unreliable. Natasha Naseem, attorney for the Center for Immigrant and Refugee Advancement, said E-Verify is known to produce thousands of false negatives. Naseem said that in fiscal year 2024, E-Verify reported more than 40,000 individuals as unauthorized to work that later were authorized when results were contested.

Hunter Traynor, who testified neutral on the bill on behalf of a list of economic organizations including several local chambers of commerce, said most businesses know E-Verify is by no means foolproof. He expressed concerns that LB 532 would penalize businesses based on an unreliable system. Even temporarily revoking someones license would be a death sentence, for some businesses, he said.

On E-Verifys reliability, Kauth noted that federal officials have been trying to improve the program for some time, but have been stalled partially due to a lack of information. She argued there is need for mandating the system so lawmakers can get a better idea of how big the problem of undocumented workers is in Nebraska.

I cant quantify the actual issue because we dont have this kind of program in place, Kauth said.

Kris Bousquet, who opposed LB 532 on behalf of multiple agricultural groups including the Nebraska State Dairy Association, said the bill would create an extra barrier of bureaucracy and government inefficiency that would hinder ag producers ability to find workers.

We have a pretty significant, difficult time finding willing people that are willing to milk cows and do some of the more difficult tasks on our livestock operations, Bousquet said.

While Bousquet argued that E-Verify regulations are best handled at the federal level, he acknowledged that existing work programs like H2A and other visas dont mesh well with a lot of Nebraskas ag operations, particularly in the dairy industry. He said such programs are geared toward seasonal agriculture, and dairy producers need workers year-round. While they use those immigration programs, he said, its more out of necessity than convenience.

Kauth said Nebraska lawmakers owe it to their legal residents looking to enter the workforce to ensure those opportunities are available.

If you are getting out of prison, and you need a fresh start, what better place than on a ranch or on a farm, Kauth said.
By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

Last Thursday, prime time Fox News host, Jesse Watters, called out Oregon and California on Medicaid abuse. Jesse Watters said, California was caught using Medicaid to pay for art and music lessons. Oregon was caught using Medicaid for cooking classes, air conditioners and mini fridges.

At the same time, the Oregon House passed their Medicaid bill but did not address these abuses of how the funds have been spent or will be spent.

The abuse of Medicaid dollars is a national known problem.

Here is what the Wall Street Editorial Board stated last week on Medicaid abuse:

Federal Medicaid outlays have increased 207% since 2008 and 51% since 2019. Medicaid spending as a share of federal outlays rose to 10% from 7% between 2007 and 2023, while the share of Social Security and Medicare remained stable.The press claims Republicans want to gut Medicaid. Thats false. Theyre not even proposing a cut. Medicaid outlays are on track to increase by $2.4 trillion through 2035 under the Congressional Budget Office baseline projections. So shaving $880 billion from that baseline would still amount to a $1.5 trillion increase in Medicaid spending. Republicans should long ago have fixed this baseline tyranny that automatically builds in new spending each year, but theyve lacked the nerve

One trick is imposing taxes on hospitals and managed care insurance plans, which states then use to spend more on Medicaid to collect more federal dollars. For every dollar states spend on Medicaid, the feds chip in one to three. The match is nine-to-one for the ObamaCare expansion population, which gives states an incentive to spend more on the healthy able-bodied than on the vulnerable.

Democrats and Republicans joined in 1991 to impose limits on such tax schemes so Medicaid wouldnt become an open-ended subsidy fund sponsored by Washington. Alas, Congress gave New York a carve-out in 1997 (which Bill Clinton tried to scratch with a line-item veto), and the Biden Administration shrugged as Democratic-run states broke the rules.

This is one reason Democratic-run states receive disproportionately more federal Medicaid dollars. New York received $3,046 for each state resident in 2023 based on the most recent federal data. Federal Medicaid dollars also subsidize California ($2,167 per resident) and Illinois ($1,715) much more than Florida ($991) and Texas ($1,239).

The Biden Administration also gave states waivers to spend federal Medicaid dollars on non-medical purposes, including food, homeless housing, and personal transportation for beneficiaries. Health and Human Services is only supposed to grant such waivers if they dont increase the federal deficit, but the Biden HHS ignored this rule.

Nearly half of the states have received federal permission to spend Medicaid dollars on housing, and a dozen have for food. What are federal low-income housing vouchers and food stamps for again? Mr. Bidens HHS even blessed Californias plan to spend federal Medicaid dollars on activity stipends for art and music lessons for children and club sports. Oregon is tapping Medicaid to pay for cooking classes, air conditioners and mini-refrigerators. Some Republican states have joined this all-you-can-spend Medicaid buffet.



Read more on Wall Street Journal editorial:

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"Mickey 17," an absurd yet thought-provoking sci-fi satire from Oscar-winning director Bong Joon-ho, premiered in China on Sunday, eliciting strong reactions from first-day viewers.



Posters for "Mickey 17" line the walls of a Beijing theater, serving as decorations for the film's premiere on March 2, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures]

Adapted from Edward Ashton's novel "Mickey7," the film stars Robert Pattinson as Mickey Barnes, an "expendable"  a disposable crew member on a space mission who can be regenerated with most memories intact if he dies. When a regeneration goes awry, Mickey confronts the extraordinary dilemma of working for an employer who expects him to die for a living. Written and directed by Bong, the film also features Naomi Ackie, Steven Yeun and Mark Ruffalo.

"I think nowadays there are very few directors in the world who are on Bong's level and have the audience that Bong has as well," said Pattinson. "He's living in very rarified air. I've just been such a huge fan of his. And it just came out of nowhere  'There's a Bong project.' I met him and really loved him. Then the script came in, and it is one of the craziest things I'd ever read."

The "Parasite" director, known for his sharp social commentary and genre-defying storytelling, continues to explore systemic inequality with humor, emotion and suspense in "Mickey 17." The film combines biting, character-driven social satire with high-concept science fiction.

The marketing campaign for "Mickey 17" playfully appeals to Chinese audiences, especially younger viewers, by portraying the film as a tale of workers navigating demanding bosses. Following premiere events in Beijing and seven other Chinese cities, moviegoers praised the film's funny, heartfelt and timely allegory, along with the cast's performances.

Posters for "Mickey 17" line the walls of a Beijing theater, providing decorations for the premiere event and serving as backdrops for attendee photographs, March 2, 2025. [Photo/China.org.cn]

As of March 3, "Mickey 17" has received an 88% approval rating from critics on the review aggregation website Rotten Tomatoes, based on 43 reviews. The critics' consensus states: "'Mickey 17' finds Bong Joon Ho returning to his forte of daffy sci-fi with a withering social critique at its core, proving along the way that you can never have too many Robert Pattinsons."

The film will be released nationwide in China on March 7.


By Taxpayers Association of Oregon

OregonWatchdog.com

There are three important bill hearings this week:

#1 THREE BILLS TO ** CUT ** CORPORATE ACTIVITIES TAX

SB 381, SB 440, Sb 490 to reduce Corporate Activities tax (CAT Tax) to have hearing on 03/03/2025 8:00 AM , HR A , Senate Finance and Revenue Committee. Because the CAT Tax taxes revenue (instead of profits), it has hit the slim-profit margin industries like health care, grocery stores and restaurants very hard. Because taxing gross revenue instead of profits is such a destructive tax, only four other states have them

Please SUPPORT these bills to CUT the CAT tax.

 SB 381 Increases the exempt amount and the filing threshold for purposes of the corporate activity tax.

 SB 440 Increases the exempt amount and the filing threshold for purposes of the corporate activity tax as applicable to home-building contracts.

 SB 490 Increases the exempt amount and the filing threshold for purposes of the corporate activity tax.

To submit testimony online click the bill# ((SB 381, SB 440, SB 490), then the submit testify tab.

#2. HEARING on 4% TIRE TAX

There is a hearing for HB 3362 this Tuesday March 4th in Transportation with subsequent referral to Ways and Means Committee. HB 3362 would tax everyones tire 4% to pay for many unrelated activities like rail transit  a transportation mode in deep decline. It would pay for wildlife passages on roads. Why have the nations 10th highest gas tax if you now have to pass huge tire taxes? CLICK HERE TO TESTIFY  look for submit Testify tab

#3. HEARING ON FLAVOR BAN

SB 702 hearing 03/04/2025 1:00 PM , HR E in Early Childhood and Behavioral Health. SB 702 would ban flavored nicotine products like vaping, hookahs and cigarettes and has a Salem Capitol hearing on Tues. March 4th. A SB 702 flavor ban would cause a big drop in tobacco tax revenue. One estimate puts it at nearly $200 million in tobacco tax health care dollars that would be lost. That means the Oregon Health department would look to raise more taxes and fees to make up for the lost $100 million revenue if SB 702 passed. In 2023, the Oregon Health Department witnessed 77 fee increases totaling $17 million. At this rate, the Oregon Health Department would need to raise 385 fees to make up the difference of a $100 million loss of healthcare dollars. Flavor bans like SB 702 will boost the black market. One estimate put the current number of illegal sales of tobacco products at 1 of 4 of all sales. That means Oregon would lose much of the $100 million in current health care tax dollars to criminal smugglers. Also, people find that vaping products are the #1 way that they are able to quit cigarette smoking. Please submit an online testimony at the State Capitol here and click the register to testify tab on top.

Remember, if the politicians ban these products today; liquor, bill, wine, soda drinks will be next.

 Was this helpful? If so, Contribute online at OregonWatchdog.com (learn about a Charitable Tax Deduction or Political Tax Credit options to promote liberty).
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Surveying elephants is hard, risky work. Dedicated biologists have been doing this challenging task across Africa for decades.

Systematic surveying started in the late 1960s but has been sporadic, as access to remote areas takes logistical planning, funding and well-trained teams. Surveys can easily be derailed by civil unrest or lack of available survey teams. Consequently, the information on the numbers of elephants across Africa is spotty. Even for a single population, survey effort and coverage can change over the years.

Still, the efforts of governments and conservation organizations to count elephants have amassed a remarkable dataset, held by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and its African Elephant Specialist Group. It's a complex dataset, which has made it harder to see general scale trends in the numbers of elephants, until now.

In a new study, my colleagues and I have put together data from 1,325 surveys of elephant populationseverything we could findto evaluate how elephant numbers in Africa have changed over the last 50 years or so.

This research provides the most comprehensive assessment of trends in the two species of elephants in Africa: the forest elephant and the savanna elephant.

The results were eye opening. African elephants have experienced serious losses in contemporary times (between 1964 and 2016). The average population trend for African savanna elephants was a decline of 70%. Forest elephant populations declined by over 90%. While declines in the species had been widely recognized, understanding of the overall magnitude and regional context was lacking until now.

We found that over the past 50 years there has been a shift in the distribution of elephants across Africa. Population sizes have shifted too. Three-quarters of today's forest and savanna elephant populations are smaller than 500 individuals.

Our team of African elephant conservation and survey data analysis experts have highlighted the areas most at risk of losing their elephant populations. We've also provided area-specific insight to elephant conservation successes and failures. The research shows that maintaining current elephant numbers, let alone reversing declines, requires new thinking and conservation innovation.

Quantifying scales of decline

Declining elephant numbers are not surprising, given the level of ivory poaching and the degree of human population growth and associated landscape modification across Africa over the past 60 years. And this killing continues. Hundreds of elephants are illegally killed each year, according to the Monitoring of Illegal Killing of Elephants program.

The scale of the decline merited listing savanna elephant species as endangered and forest elephant species as critically endangered.

But this was not without controversy. In places, growing elephant populations are creating management challenges, such as in and around Chobe National Park, Botswana.

Thus, the reality at some sites does not match the overall, average trend of populations across the continent. Our analysis was structured to give insight into the diversity of trends. We also did this for the two species separately.

We were able to dissect which populations had experienced losses and which had gains, finding that trends varied by population.

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What we found

We found that southern Africa experienced the greatest diversity of trends.

Half the sites were stable or increasing over the study period. Populations in Botswana and Zimbabwe, in particular, grew robustly and now hold the majority of savanna elephants in Africa.

Increasing populations were rare in other regions. All the populations of savanna elephants in the northern part of sub-Saharan Africa showed declines. Many populations in the northern savannas of Chad, Nigeria, Cameroon and Mali have been lost. Most remaining populations in the region are under serious threat. Only remnant populations remain in the northern savannas, typically isolated from each other.

East and central Africa, where most elephants once resided, underwent serious losses over this period due to ivory poaching.

Can we turn declines around?

Reversing the downward trend is difficult. Ivory poaching has driven large-scale declines over relatively short periods of time in Africa. Stemming the ivory trade has proven difficult as it requires global recognition and action.

Over the longer term, erosion of the elephants' range finishes off remnant populations. Once elephant populations are lost, an area may lose its protection, accelerating landscape changes.

Concerted efforts must be made to slow the erosion of remaining wildlands.

Despite the broad scale decline, there are numerous examples of populations that are stable or increasing. Some are even within areas with few persisting elephant populations. These successes suggest ways to reverse elephant declines: tackling habitat loss, landscape conversion and ivory poaching.

Reversing the elephant population decline

Firstly, public-private partnerships in protected area management should be considered.

In many countries, there's not enough management capacity, leading to "paper" parks. These are parks that are legally gazetted but in fact are not functional. Institutional partnerships between relevant government departments and the private sectornon-governmental organizations focused on conservationcan uplift management efforts. This can also drive progress towards economic sustainability of protected areas.

We have seen several examples of this with African Parks, a non-governmental organization that directly manages numerous protected areas across Africa with government support.

Secondly, working with neighboring communities and land use managers to maintain the integrity of the landscape for wildlife like elephants is crucial.

Large-scale landscape planning for co-existence with elephants in lands adjacent to protected areas can take the form of tourism expansion. Land can be converted to growing crops that wildlife do not eat, like chili. Wildlife-friendly and multi-use buffer zones can also be created.

Thirdly, ivory poaching must be tackled. Law enforcement must function in protected areas and their surroundings. Similarly, it's important to reduce demand for illegal wildlife products, and the economic pressures that drive the wildlife trade.

Africa's human population will more than double over the next 50 years, putting more pressure on Africa's wildlands. New efforts are needed to stop the decline of elephant populations and restore lost populations.

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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

From Wall Street trading to warehouse logistics, artificial intelligence has proved it can outperform humans. In new research from Texas McCombs, AI takes on humans at an even higher-level business function: strategic decision-making.

Harsh Ketkar, assistant professor of management, finds AI can enhance the speed, quality, and scale of strategic analysis. In matchups against human creators and evaluators of business plansconducted with Felipe Csaszar from the University of Michigan and Hyunjin Kim from INSEADAI equaled or bested its challengers.

"Artificial Intelligence and Strategic Decision-Making: Evidence from Entrepreneurs and Investors" is published in Strategy Science.

Besides writing plans, he finds AI can critique existing strategies and suggest others.

"AI can be the sparring partner that can come up with an alternative set of ideas that can't be easily envisioned," says Ketkar. "It can help executive teams to break out of that blind spot that can sometimes happen."

Using AI for strategic decisions, he says, could affect competition between companies, survival or failure of startups, and companies' long-term growth and success.

Better Business Plans

The authors drew their original inspiration from financial trading. It's an activity where humans once dominated, but algorithms now account for 78% of trading decisions.

Strategic decision-making, by contrast, involves more nuanced kinds of analysis and judgmentthe kinds that experts acquire through years of study and experience. How capable were machines of doing it well?

Ketkar and his colleagues ran two experiments. For the first, they partnered with a European startup accelerator. The researchers selected five business plans it had accepted and five it had rejected during 2021 and 2022.

For each plan, they used the program GPT 3.5 to create an AI-generated double. For a prompt, they used language from the entrepreneur's original plan, which described the problem the plan was addressing. They then asked GPT to create the rest of the business plan.

They showed the plans to 250 evaluators, with an average of five years' investing experience and seven years' managerial experience. Each evaluator reviewed a mix of 10 entrepreneur-generated and AI-generated plans, but never the same plan and its double.

The evaluators rated each plan's key attributessuch as innovation and value proposition, viability and writing quality, and potential to invest in the ideaon a 1 to 10 scale. They also rendered overall judgments: whether they would accept the startup into the accelerator, invest in it, or request an introduction to its founder.

Collectively, the evaluators rated GPT-written plans higher across all criteria. They were:

5 percentage points more likely to accept such businesses into the accelerator, compared with plans crafted by live entrepreneurs.

3 percentage points more likely to want to meet the founder.

3 percentage points more likely to invest in the startups.

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AI picks winners

The second experiment reversed the first. Instead of writing business plans, AI assessed them.

Ketkar and his fellow researchers partnered with a startup competition at an elite business school. They selected 138 all-text business plans submitted in the competition's previous 10 cycles. Each plan had already been evaluated by three to five competition judges: a mixture of venture capitalists and investors, many with backgrounds as entrepreneurs.

The researchers had GPT evaluate the plans, using prompts that mirrored instructions given to judges. To simulate real-world judging, each plan went through three GPT assessments.

The GPT evaluations correlated strongly with the average scores from experienced investorsmore strongly, in fact, than the human scores correlated with one another.

"We were quite surprised with the correlation we got," Ketkar says. "AI was quite accurate in picking the winners, and it was also better at predicting which plan was ultimately going to be successful."

The results, he says, suggest AI could stand in for humans for evaluating business plans.

Expanding access to strategic planning

The research could have implications across the entrepreneurial landscape, Ketkar says.

Venture capitalists can use AI to more quickly evaluate business proposals, which means they could more quickly get funding to startups.

Accelerators could use it to evaluate applications.

Entrepreneurs could employ it to create and test strategic plans. It could even improve their plans by modeling more complex scenarios and suggesting outside-the-box approaches.

Business consultants aren't necessarily out of a job, but they may need to sharpen their skills to add value to AI results.

"Everyone now has access to high-level strategic decision-making," says Ketkar. "It's McKinsey-in-a-box. It democratizes it."

Over time, he predicts, companies that incorporate AI into their strategic planning may get a competitive edge and enhance performance. He compares it to the advent of algorithmic trading on Wall Street.

"This is going to lead to new strategy frameworks being developed," he says. "It will change strategy decision-making, not just in the way that we do it, but in the way that we perceive it."

More information: Felipe A. Csaszar et al, Artificial Intelligence and Strategic Decision-Making: Evidence from Entrepreneurs and Investors, Strategy Science (2024). DOI: 10.1287/stsc.2024.0190
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An illustration of the Ananse whose web creation inspired the creation of Asante Kente. Credit: Dickson Adom, Bonwire, August 2020. From Sage Open (2024). DOI: 10.1177/21582440231224780

Kente is a prestigious royal cloth of Ghana's Asante people, part of their historical and cultural heritage. But there's a debate about where it originated: the Bonwire community or the Adanwomase community in the Ashanti Region. The Conversation Africa spoke to African art and culture researcher Dickson Adom about the origins of this world-famous textile.

What is Asante kente and why is it unique?

Asante kente is a cloth that embodies the cultural heritage and history of the Asante people. The Asantes are a major ethnic group in Ghana with a history dating back centuries. The cloth is known for its construction and the interlacing of the warp yarns of different colors. It is made on a hand-operated loom.

This creates a design iconography that reflects Asante philosophy, moral values, historical episodes, belief systems and religious ideologies.

What evidence is there that this tradition can be traced to a particular region in Ghana?

Scientific studies on the practice of the Asante kente weaving craft at Bonwire are either flawed or not comprehensive. I therefore carried out a study from June 2020 to March 2021 for anthropological (historical, cultural and physical) evidence. I spoke to elders, weavers, traders, chiefs, and all other important stakeholders in the Asante kente production at Bonwire.

My findings affirm that the Asante kente at Bonwire is distinctly Asante. The popular view that it is a generally African cloth is flawed.

My study found that the historical origins of Asante kente in the town of Bonwire were associated with a spider weaving its web. Locally referred to as Ananse, the spider was observed by two hunters who were also brothers, Opoku Kuragu and Kwakye Ameyaw, around 1720 as it skillfully wove its web. They observed how the spider interlaced various strands to produce its web. After careful observation, the two reproduced the woven web using raffia fibers. The first known cloth was black and white.

Anthropological evidence, including hunting guns and lamps that were used for the hunting expedition and found in the brothers' family building, affirms this folklore. I found that rituals are performed annually in the rooms of Opoku Kuragu and Kwakye Ameyaw in their family house to solicit their blessings and sustain the weaving tradition in their lineage. The first king of the Asante, Otumfuo Osei Tutu I, created royal stools (titles) in the traditional cabinet of his kingdom for the lineage of the two brothers. They were tasked to weave kente cloths for all Asante kings. This is historical evidence of their significant contributions to the craft.

Other residents of the town of Bonwire who contributed to the Asante kente weaving were Ota Kraban and Nana Osei Kuffour. Ota Kraban engineered the first loom, which was a hand-operated device made from wood known as Nsadua Kofi. He is also credited with introducing different colored yarns such as yellow, green and black. Nana Osei Kuffour later introduced the varieties of geometric weave patterns into Asante kente. These weave patterns have interpretations that relate to the moral values, political thoughts, historical traditions and culture of the Asantes.

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Examples include "Obi Nkyee Obi Kwan Mu Si" (no one shows you how to chart your path) and "Nkyimkyim" (the path of life is not always smooth and straightforward but could be crooked). Like Kuragu and Ameyaw, Ota Kraban and Nana Osei Kuffour were also given special titles and stools in the traditional cabinet of the Asante kingdom in recognition of their innovative contributions to the weaving craft.

During visits to the town of Bonwire, I observed various functioning looms as well as old, non-functioning ones in several homes. On average, 8 out of 10 indigenous homes and 5 out of 10 modern homes in the community had Nsadua Kofi looms aged between 50 and 80 years old. There were also over 40 shops set up for trading activities around Asante kente.

The views expressed by the local people indicated that Asante kente is a home craft passed on and taught to children from the age of five years as a main or auxiliary skill. I observed the resolve of the Bonwire people who were weavers to pass on the cherished kente home craft to the young and unborn generations.

Why does tracing this heritage matter?

There have been various arguments about the origin of Asante kente at Bonwire. For instance, the late Ephraim Amu, considered the father of Ghanaian traditional music, composed a song titled Asante Bonwire Kente (I have not seen anything that can be compared to the Asante kente from Bonwire). But there was no robust evidence for the origins of the cloth at Bonwire and the unique contribution of their kente production to Asante history and culture.

This traditional weaving craft has served as a main or auxiliary income-generating avenue for the people of Bonwire and its neighboring communities for over 300 years. Recently, Unesco has recognized this world-famous cloth on the list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Hence the need for a scholarly probe into its historical origins and design iconography.

What rituals continue to be carried out today marking the tradition?

Annual rituals are performed in the room of Opoku Kuragu and Kwakye Ameyaw in their family house. This is to call for their blessings to sustain the Asante kente weaving craft within the family.

A kente festival is organized annually at Bonwire to mark the origin of the weaving craft. During the festival, special visits and homage are paid to their ancestors. A delegation from the Bonwire Traditional Council leads special visits to all the places that Opoku Kuragu and Kwakye Ameyaw went to. Special libations are poured at these sites, with special recitations and incantations to hail and extol the brothers' achievements. During the event, the contributions of Ota Kraban and Nana Osei Kuffour are also described and hailed for the younger generation. This is to encourage them to expand the Asante kente weaving tradition in new ways.

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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The boat bobbed gently off Malibu's Big Rock Beach as a trio of scientific divers wriggled into wet suits and double-checked tanks and regulators.

Behind them unfurled a panorama of devastation from the Palisades fire a month earlier. Blackened vegetation dotted the hillsides rising above the Pacific Coast Highway. Rubble and lonely chimneys littered the shore where beachfront homes once stood.

One by one, the three divers slipped beneath the surface, nets and knives at the ready. They were seeking evidence of the fire's underwater toll, particularly its effect on a vital anchor of the coastal ecosystem: kelp.

The divers were with Kelp Ark, a San Pedro-based nonprofit seed bank that preserves and stores genetic material from West Coast kelp species. The Feb. 10 dive was their second since fire and subsequent rains injected tons of ash and debris into the ocean ecosystem.

"When we think about wildfires, we think a lot about how that impacts the terrestrial realm, how destructive it can be to the land," said Lori Berberian, a second-year Ph.D. student in geography at UCLA who studies the effects of wildfire on kelp abundance and habitat distribution. "But there are huge implications for the coast."

Forests of kelp, a fast-growing brown algae, provide food and habitat for hundreds of marine species and absorb greenhouse gases that might otherwise hasten climate change.

Yet kelp is also highly sensitive to environmental changes. Fluctuations in temperature, light availability, nutrients and pollutants can have surprisingly swift consequences on kelp populations, which have waxed and waned along the California coast in recent decades.

And few things have shocked L.A.'s ecology, like January's Palisades and Eaton fires, which burned more than 40,000 acres, destroyed at least 12,000 buildings and drained tons of ash, debris and toxic residue into the ocean.

No one yet knows how sea life will respond to an urban fire of this magnitude. Kelp may be one of the first species to tell us.

"They're a big sentinel species that are indicators of how our coastal ecosystems are thriving," said Erin Hestir, a remote sensing specialist and associate professor at UC Merced.

Hestir is the principal investigator of KelpFire, a research project that uses remote sensing and on-the-ground observations to track the effects of wildfire runoff on kelp populations.

While every rainfall washes dirt and urban gunk into the ocean, that process is turbocharged after a wildfire. Fire consumes vegetation that would otherwise hold soil in place and alters soil chemistry so that it absorbs less water.

This massive infusion of sediment disrupts kelp's access to two things it needs to survive: rocks and sunlight.

A glut of dirt and pollutants can interfere with kelp spores' ability to securely attach to rocks and reefs, either by binding to the spores themselves or by littering rock surfaces.

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And when ash and debris fall upon the ocean's surface, it reduces the amount of sunlight that filters through the water and provides the light kelp needs to photosynthesize.

Kelp isn't the only marine species that suffers when deprived of light or pumped with pollution. But the prominent role it plays makes it an important bellwether for broader problems spurred by a changing climate.

Berberian, the UCLA doctoral student, is also a member of the research team. She developed a Post-Fire Kelp Recovery Index to compare kelp canopy extent after a fire to its historical average.

The team found that mature giant kelp beds shrank after the 2016 Soberanes fire in Monterey County, the 2017 Thomas fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, and the 2018 Woolsey fire in the Santa Monica Mountains. They still haven't returned to pre-fire levels, Hestir said.

Recovery rates varied widely by location. Using satellite data, Berberian found that the median recovery rate of kelp beds near Malibu was a mere 7% in the two years after the Woolsey fire. In the same time period, beds off of Palos Verdes rebounded 61%, with some areas recovering almost completely.

All of those fires dumped sediment into the ocean. But January's infernos introduced a new variable, said Kyle Cavanaugh, a coastal geographer and UCLA professor who is also on the KelpFire team.

Previous wildfires burned mostly brush, trees and other organic material. The Palisades and Eaton fires incinerated homes, cars and everything in them: plastics, electronics, batteries, asbestos, lead pipes and household chemicals. No one knows yet what effect this will have on sea life.

"There's certainly evidence that certain types of hydrocarbons and metals are toxic to early life stages of giant kelp, and you might expect that would be a bigger issue with all of the urban structures that burnt," Cavanaugh said. "That's something somewhat unique about this."

California's giant kelp faces a number of different threats, and Hestir cautioned between drawing a direct line between any single disturbancefire includedand decline of visible canopy.

Yet as the environmental disruptions pile upprolonged marine heat waves, changing ocean chemistry, stronger and more frequent stormsso does the worry that the next disturbance could be a tipping point.

"What we're concerned about is that these kelp are already under these stressors . . . and then you end up with a wildfire event, and maybe that's what really tips it over the edge and doesn't allow it to recover," Hestir said.

Kelp Ark's divers observed these challenging conditions firsthand during an initial post-fire collection trip on Jan. 27.

Days earlier, the first significant rains since May sent contaminants surging into the ocean.

The ship's wake was the color of chocolate milk. The ocean seemed to reek of burnt trash, said crew member Taylor Collins. The anchor chain, which on a typical day is visible for about 10 feet into the water, disappeared into opaque murk mere inches below the surface.

Before the divers rolled in, captain Joey Broyles let down a waterproof camera to assess conditions below.

The first 3 feet of seawater were choked with soot, dirt and pollution, said Bernadeth Tolentino, lead scientific diver and a graduate student in the USC lab of Kelp Ark founder Sergey Nuzhdin.

Visibility beneath the layer of soot was close to zero, she said. Divers held hands to keep track of one another underwater before calling it quits.

"It was almost like someone put a blanket over the ocean," Tolentino said.

Two weeks after that murky dive near Malibu Creek, the Kelp Ark team set out again to collect kelp samples to take back to their facility at AltaSea in the Port of Los Angeles for analysis and spore harvesting.

For this outing they chose a spot popular with recreational divers, where kelp was frequently recorded prior to the fires.

Two hours after plunging into the ocean, Tolentino and colleagues Declan Bulwa and Sedona Silva climbed wet and winded back into the boat.

They'd seen all the animals a diver would expect to see in a kelp forest, such as garibaldi fish and kelp bass.

But the only signs of the big brown algae were a few loose floating pieces and some decaying holdfasts on rocks near the shorea sign that kelp had been there in the recent past, but no longer.

2025 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Caribou browse and graze on willows, sedges, and alpine tundra plants during the summer. Credit: Mark Bradley

Researchers at the University of Calgary are suggesting a more comprehensive approach for identifying at-risk wildlife populationssuch as cariboubased on individual movement patterns.

The paper, published in the journal Biological Conservation, uses a long-term dataset of caribou wearing GPS collars across Western Canada.

It identifies six distinct behavioral groups that would each deserve their own conservation actions.

"We took the approach of using behavior to try to see if there are differences between individuals and groups that can be clustered into similarities," says lead author Margaret Hughes, a Ph.D. candidate with the Department of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science.

"You can infer when and where they're going and try to infer why they are doing that based on what's actually out across the landscape."

The research determined whether the animals were migrating, how large of an area they were spending time in, and whether they were moving to different elevations. Hughes says the data-driven approach showed slight differences from how caribou are managed in Western Canada.

Conservation managers often use genetic analysis to describe populations of at-risk caribou, but Hughes says the paper describes a more holistic approach that would also include behavioral analysis: "It allows conservation managers to recognize ecologically meaningful variation within species, helping to maintain biodiversity and improve management strategies."

Caribou, called reindeer in Europe, are members of the deer family.

"The species is iconic," says Dr. Marco Musiani, Ph.D., a professor at the University of Bologna and an adjunct professor at UCalgary. "It is the most famous species affected by oil and gas and forestry in Canada and also climate change, and one of the most sensitive worldwide."

Musiani, a supervisor of Hughes's research, says the science is invaluable. It suggests that the novel approach holds promise for informing other conservation efforts.

"Our findings provide a framework that can be applied beyond caribou to other species at risk, helping to guide habitat protection, restoration, and even translocation strategiesareas that are currently the focus of significant investments," explains Hughes.

As an example, she says it could inform where to put protected wildlife ecological corridors and conservation areas.

The paper involved other researchers from both the UCalgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and the Faculty of Science at UCalgary as well as the University of Bologna. It also included government researchers from the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship and the Canadian Wildlife Service.

The research covered a large area across the Rocky Mountains and boreal forest of Western Canada, particularly B.C. Hughes notes that the work wouldn't have been possible without the help of the First Nations involved with the British Columbia Caribou Recovery Program.

"We acknowledge that this work took place throughout British Columbia, on the traditional territories of the First Nations where caribou currently exist."

More information: Margaret M. Hughes et al, Integrating movement behaviours for intra-specific conservation: The caribou case, Biological Conservation (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110933 Journal information: Biological Conservation
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A sky distribution plot of all nine clusters, showing their positions in Galactic coordinates (longitude l and latitude b), with color representing their tangential velocities. Credit: arXiv (2025). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2502.15114

Astronomers have performed a multiwavelength study of nine open cluster candidates. As a result, they found that all of them are genuine open clusters and characterized by their fundamental properties. The finding was reported in a research paper published Feb. 21 on the arXiv pre-print server.

Open clusters (OCs), formed from the same giant molecular cloud, are groups of stars loosely gravitationally bound to each other. So far, more than 1,000 of them have been discovered in the Milky Way, and scientists are still looking for more, hoping to find a variety of these stellar groupings.

Expanding the list of known galactic open clusters and studying them in detail could be crucial for improving our understanding of the formation and evolution of our galaxy.

Recently, a team of astronomers led by Casmir Obasi of the Catholic University of the North in Antofagasta, Chile, decided to take a closer look at nine OC candidates toward the galactic bulge, which has not been properly characterized yet. For this purpose, they analyzed the data from the VISTA Variables in the Via Lactea extended Survey (VVVX), Two Micron All-Sky Survey (2MASS), and Gaia Data Release 3 (Gaia DR3).

"In this work, VVVX data in combination with 2MASS and Gaia DR3 was used to characterize nine OC candidates: BH 118, BH 144, Schuster-MWSC 1756, Saurer 3, FSR 1521, Saurer 2, Haffner 10-FSR 1231, Juchert 12 and Pismis 3," the researchers explained.

Obasi's team constructed density maps and vector-proper motion diagrams to analyze the selected OC candidates. They also performed photometric analysis to derive their main physical parameters.

All in all, the astronomers managed to derive reddening, extinction, distance, vertical component, concentration indices and tangential velocity of all the targets. Moreover, they computed age and metallicity, as well as obtained core and tidal radii of the investigated candidate open clusters.

The study found that the nine OC candidates are at a distance ranging from 7,140 to 29,140 light years. They are mostly concentrated near the galactic plane, which suggests that they are part of or close to the galactic disk.

According to the paper, the studied sample contains young, intermediate-age and old OC candidates, as they were estimated to be between 20 million and 5 billion years old. Their metallicities were measured to be within a range of -0.5 and 0.5 dex, while their concentration indices were obtained to be 0.360.83.

The authors of the paper conclude that their results confirm that all the nine targets are genuine open clusters. They note that follow-up spectroscopic observations of these OCs are required in order to determine their orbital parameters.

More information: C. O. Obasi et al, Multi-Wavelength characterization of VVVX open clusters, arXiv (2025). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2502.15114 Journal information: arXiv

 2025 Science X Network
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U.S. fishing industries, both commercial and recreational, rely on healthy coastal areas. Credit: JESHOOTS from Pexels

Healthy coastal ecosystems play crucial roles in the U.S. economy, from supporting multibillion-dollar fisheries and tourism industries to protecting coastlines from storms.

They're also difficult to manage, requiring specialized knowledge and technology.

That's why the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrationthe federal agency best known for collecting and analyzing the data that make weather forecasts and warnings possibleleads most of the government's work on ocean and coastal health, as well as research into the growing risks posed by climate change.

The government estimates that NOAA's projects and services support more than one-third of the nation's gross domestic product. Yet, this is one of the agencies that the Trump administration has targeted, with discussions of trying to privatize NOAA's forecasting operations and disband its crucial climate change research.

As a marine environmental historian who studies relationships among scientists, fishermen and environmentalists, I have seen how NOAA's work affects American livelihoods, coastal health and the U.S. economy.

Here are a few examples from just NOAA's coastal work, and what it means to fishing industries and coastal states.

Preventing fisheries from collapsing

One of the oldest divisions within NOAA is the National Marine Fisheries Service, known as NOAA Fisheries. It dates to 1871, when Congress created the U.S. Commission of Fish and Fisheries. At that time, the first generation of conservationists started to worry that America's natural resources were finite.

By conducting surveys and interviewing fishermen and seafood dealers, the fish commissioners discovered that freshwater and saltwater fisheries across the country were declining.

Oil spills and raw sewage were polluting waterways. Fishermen were using high-tech gear, such as pound nets, to catch more and more of the most valuable fish. In some areas, overfishing was putting the future of the fisheries in jeopardy.

One solution was to promote aquaculture, also known as fish or shellfish farming. Scientists and entrepreneurs reared baby fish in hatcheries and transferred them to rivers, lakes or bays. The Fish Commission even used refrigerated railroad cars to ship fish eggs across the country.

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Today, U.S. aquaculture is a US$1.5 billion industry and the world's fastest-growing food sector. Much of the salmon you see in grocery stores started as farm-raised hatchlings. NOAA provides training, grants and regional data to support the industry.

Looking back on 150 years of NOAAs fisheries history.

NOAA Fisheries also helps to regulate commercial and recreational fishing to keep fish populations healthy and prevent them from crashing.

The 1976 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act and other laws implemented catch limits to prevent overfishing. To develop fair regulations and combat illegal practices, NOAA and its predecessors have worked with fishing organizations through regional fishery management councils for decades.

These industries generate $321 billion in sales and support 2.3 million jobs.

Restoring coral reefs to help marine life thrive

NOAA also benefits U.S. coastal communities by restoring coral reefs.

Corals build up reefs over centuries, creating "cities of the sea." When they're healthy, they provide nurseries that protect valuable fish species, like snapper, from predators. Reefs also attract tourism and protect coastlines by breaking up waves that cause storm-driven flooding and erosion.

The corals of Hawaii, Florida, Puerto Rico and other tropical areas provide over $3 billion a year in benefitsfrom sustaining marine ecosystems to recreation, including sport fishing.

However, reefs are vulnerable to pollution, acidification, heat stress and other damage. Warming water can cause coral bleaching events, as the world saw in 2023 and 2024.

NOAA monitors reef health. It also works with innovative restoration strategies, such as breeding strains of coral that resist bleaching, so reefs have a better chance of surviving as the planet warms.

Battling invasive species in the Great Lakes

A third important aspect of NOAA's coastal work involves controlling invasive species in America's waters, including those that have menaced the Great Lakes.

Zebra and quagga mussels, spiny water flea and dozens of other Eurasian organisms colonized the Great Lakes starting in the late 1900s after arriving in ballast water from transoceanic ships. These invaders have disrupted the Great Lakes food web and clogged cities' water intake systems, causing at least $138 million in damage per year.

In the Northwest Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, invasive lionfish, native to Asia and Australia, have spread, preying on native fish essential to coral reefs. Lionfish have become one of the world's most damaging marine fish invasions.

NOAA works with the Coast Guard, U.S. Geological Survey and other organizations to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species. Stronger ballast water regulations developed through the agency's research have helped prevent new invasions in the Great Lakes.

Understanding climate change

One of NOAA's most crucial roles is its leadership in global research into understanding the causes and effects of climate change.

The oil industry has known for decades that greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels would raise global temperatures.

Evidence and research from around the world have connected greenhouse gas emissions from human activities to climate change. The data have shown how rising temperatures have increased risks for coastal areas, including worsening heat waves and ocean acidification that harm marine life; raising sea levels, which threaten coastal communities with tidal flooding and higher storm surges; and contributing to more extreme storms.

NOAA conducts U.S. climate research and coordinates international climate research efforts, as well as producing the data and analysis for weather and ocean forecasting that coastal states rely on.

Why tear apart an irreplaceable resource?

When Republican President Richard Nixon proposed consolidating several different agencies into NOAA in 1970, he told Congress that doing so would promote "better protection of life and property from natural hazards," "better understanding of the total environment" and "exploration and development leading to the intelligent use of our marine resources."

The Trump administration is instead discussing tearing down NOAA. The administration has been erasing mentions of climate change from government research, websites and policiesdespite the rising risks to communities across the nation. The next federal budget is likely to slash NOAA's funding.

Commercial meteorologists argue that much of NOAA's weather data and forecasting, crucial to coastal areas, couldn't be duplicated by the private sector.

As NOAA marks its 55th year, I believe it's in the nation's and the U.S. economy's best interest to strengthen rather than dismantle this vital agency.

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Credit: Water Research (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.123056

Antibiotic resistance is a global concern that threatens our ability to prevent and treat bacterial infections in humans and animals. To better monitor the emergence and spread of resistance, researchers at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology have developed a CRISPR-enriched metagenomics method for the enhanced surveillance of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in wastewater.

The research is published in the journal Water Research.

While antibiotics are powerful modern tools for combating infections, bacteria change and adapt over time in response to antibiotic exposure, therefore decreasing effectiveness. Widespread overuse and misuse of antibiotics in the health care and food industries further accelerate this problem.

Beyond direct exposure to antibiotics, resistance is also passed between different bacteria through the transfer of small pieces of bacterial DNA called antibiotic resistance genes. There are over 5,000 identified ARGs, and these genes can be found in clinical samples, as well as bodies of water, originating from hospitals, farms, and sewage systems.

"ARGs can reduce the life-saving power of drugs used to treat bacterial infections," said Helen Nguyen (IGOH), a professor of civil and environmental engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. "Wastewater detection of ARGs with clinical significance allows public health authorities and physicians to anticipate what is circulating in communities."

Wastewater contains numerous different ARGs mixed together with genetic material from various sources, including humans, viruses, and bacteria. Because ARGs only make up a tiny percentage of the total DNA content, uncovering them in wastewater samples requires sensitive detection methods. The most common technique is quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). This method uses RNA guides called primers to identify the specific DNA sequences of known ARGs, which are then amplified for detection.

"qPCR is a sensitive method that many people in public health are well-trained to do, but it requires primary design and validation, which is very time-consuming," said Yuqing Mao, a doctoral student in civil and environmental engineering who was the first author of the paper. "Since qPCR is used to pull out targeted gene sequences, all the other genetic material in the sample remains completely unknown."

The second method, metagenomics, is not as sensitive as qPCR, but captures a more complete story of the genetic information contained in a sample. Metagenomics involves breaking all the sample DNA into millions of smaller fragments which are simultaneously sequenced using next generation sequencing technologies. Computational algorithms piece together the full DNA sequences for comparison against databases to determine their identities.

"ARGs make up less than 1%probably even closer to 0.1%of DNA in the sample. Using standard metagenomics methods, 99.9% of the DNA detected is not associated with ARGs," Mao said.

To enrich the amount of ARG-associated fragments in the samples, Mao, Nguyen, and their collaborator, Joanna Shisler, who is affiliated with the Department of Microbiology at Illinois, leveraged the CRISPR-Cas9 systema highly effective tool for gene editing.

The DNA is fragmented in random locations when using standard metagenomics methods, but the incorporation of CRIPSR-Cas9 allows for targeted fragmentation within ARGs. By designing a pool of 6,010 different guide RNAs that could specifically bind to DNA at different sites found in ARGs, the Cas9 protein could be directed to cut at these locations.

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"Our new CRISPR method increases the abundance of ARG fragments in the sample, which increases their chances of being read and detected. CRISPR also has better potential for multiplexed assays than something like PCR because the molecular interaction is simple and straightforward for CRISPR," Mao said.

Their new method lowered the detection limit of ARGs by an order of magnitude, from 10-4 to 10-5, compared to standard metagenomics, and found 1,189 more ARGs and 61 more ARG families that are low in abundance in wastewater samples.

As a sixth-year graduate student, Mao built this project from the ground upovercoming scientific obstacles and learning many new techniques along the way. She said, "The first time I got the sequencing results, I never expected how much more sensitive it would be compared to the regular methodit detected many more ARGs than we thought it would. After finishing the project, I feel like I have grown up."

But while this work is wrapped up, Mao and Nguyen are already pursuing multiple new directions, including expanding the applications of their CRISPR-Cas9 metagenomic method to a broader range of environmental samples and using their results to guide the design of new qPCR primers.

More information: Yuqing Mao et al, Enhanced detection for antibiotic resistance genes in wastewater samples using a CRISPR-enriched metagenomic method, Water Research (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.123056 Journal information: Water Research
You are here: Business

Major new energy vehicle manufacturers in China saw robust sales growth last month, after a lukewarm start in January.

BYD delivered 322,846 vehicles in February, marking a 164 percent year-on-year increase.

The company's Dynasty and Ocean series contributed 304,673 units, while its premium brandsFang Cheng Bao, Denza, and Yangwangsold 4,942, 8,513, and 105 vehicles, respectively.

Notably, BYD's overseas sales surged, with 67,025 vehicles sold, underscoring its growing global presence.

Xpeng retained its position as the leader among startups, delivering 30,453 vehicles in February, a remarkable 570 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

This marks the fourth consecutive month that the Guangzhou-based startup has surpassed the 30,000-unit delivery milestone.

Xpeng also highlighted the growing adoption of its advanced driver-assistance systems. During the Spring Festival holiday, its ADAS usage saw significant growth, with total driving distance and duration increasing by 98.2 percent and 103.5 percent, respectively.

Li Auto followed closely, delivering 26,263 vehicles in February, a 29.7 percent year-on-year increase. Li Auto's CEO, Li Xiang, expressed confidence in the company's first pure electric SUV, the Li i8, after receiving positive feedback on its design.

Leapmotor continued its upward trajectory, delivering 25,287 vehicles in February, a 285 percent year-on-year increase. The launch of the new Leapmotor T03 in late February further boosted sales.

Xiaomi's entry into the automotive market has been met with overwhelming demand. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, which went on sale recently, received 6,900 orders within 10 minutes and surpassed 10,000 orders in just two hours.

In February, Xiaomi delivered over 20,000 SU7 vehicles, maintaining a streak of five consecutive months with deliveries exceeding 20,000 units. Cumulative deliveries have now surpassed 180,000 vehicles.

Nio delivered 13,192 vehicles in February, a 62.2 percent year-on-year increase. Its namesake Nio brand accounted for 9,143 units, while its subsidiary brand, ONVO, delivered 4,049 units. Nio's flagship electric sedan, the ET9, is in the final stages of preparation for deliveries, with test drives scheduled to begin in late March.

Zeekr, following its recent restructuring, delivered 31,277 vehicles in February. The Zeekr brand contributed 14,039 units, an 86.9 percent year-on-year increase, while Lynk & Co delivered 17,238 units, with new energy vehicles making up 47.9 percent of sales.

Voyah also saw significant growth, selling 8,013 vehicles in February, a 152 percent year-on-year increase. Cumulative deliveries for the first two months of 2025 reached 16,022 units.

Voyah CEO Lu Fang attributed the growth to a surge in orders since the beginning of the year and emphasized the company's commitment to meeting rising customer demand.
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Pupils in the UK are struggling to afford menstrual products. In a 2022 UK survey, charity WaterAid found that one in five girls were missing school as a result. Limited access to period products can also have a negative impact on learning and attainment.

In 2020, the government attempted to address this problem in England with a scheme to make period products available for free in schools and colleges. This is a valuable endeavor. However, just because pads and tampons are stocked in schools, this does not mean that they are easily accessible to the pupils who need them.

In research for my recently published book, I talked to 77 teenagers in England about their knowledge and views of menstruation and related social issues.

Many of the girls and non-binary pupils used this opportunity to share the frustrations, anxiety and embarrassment that they had experienced when searching for, requesting, or using the free period products in their current and previous schools.

Some pupils explained that they had to ask for period products and wished that they could "just grab them" when needed. They told me that products were kept at reception, locked away, or stored in areassuch as staff roomsthat pupils are not allowed to access.

This requires teenagers to discuss their period with teachers or other members of school staff and many pupils I spoke to explained that they felt too embarrassed to do this. This echoes the findings of other research on the continued role played by menstrual stigma in schools.

The teenagers in my research also said that the stigma around poverty deterred them from asking for menstrual products. "There's so much shame thrown on to it. There are so many labels around the whole concept of not being able to afford these things," one explained. Another said,

"If you're from a low-income household, you feel really awkward to go and pick them out, especially because the box is in the middle of the common room. So, to walk all the way there just to pick out some products I wouldn't say anyone is going to look at you weirdly, but obviously people have got that mindset of 'oh they're going to stare at me because I can't afford it.'"

Other pupils reported that products were kept in libraries or only in one bathroom in the entire school which, in a large school, could be very far from their classrooms. One girl explained that this distance was especially problematic if her period had begun unexpectedly:

"Reception was in a completely different building across the courtyard, so it's not like I'm going to go to the loo, discover I have my period, go to the front desk, get some stuff and then go back. It's too time-consuming. If I have classes, I can't use it. I feel like the period product scheme is a really good idea, but it is dependent on the schools properly utilizing it."

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Exam time

The pupils also said that they could not always access period products during examinations. They reported that this lack of access had affected their concentration during their GCSEs. They said that examinations often took place far from where they usually accessed menstrual products and, due to concerns about cheating, they could not bring their own into examination rooms.

One girl explained: "Exams are stressful enough and then you put bleeding on to that and getting your pads and painkillers sorted. It's another thing us girls have to worry about." Another said, "In exams you can't really bring anything in. They're just going to think you're cheating but you're not, you just need to change yourself."

Some of the teenagers also mentioned that the products themselves were not serving their needs. Some schools only stocked internal products, such as tampons. For a range of reasonsdue to culture, disability, and personal preference, among othersthese are not suitable for everyone.

Other schools only provided thin pads. This is a problem for pupils with heavy bleeding. "The school pads are not thick enough," one girl said. "I have to change my pad five to six times a day because I come on really heavy."

Besides discussing the barriers they had faced to access these products, they also stated that they had never raised these issues with teachers or pastoral staff.

Menstrual justice charity Irise International is launching a toolkit for schools on how they can improve access to both period products and toilets themselves. This is based on evidence from my book as well as Irise's own consultations with young people.

It is important that pupils are given the opportunity to sharein a comfortable and inclusive settingtheir views with staff on which products should be available and where they are stored. This can include ordering reusable products such as cups and period underwear.

Schools should also ensure that period products are easily accessible during examssuch as on a table outside the exam room or in nearby toiletsand that pupils know in advance where they will be kept.

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The main rockets compared.

Minutes before it was scheduled to launch Monday, the first commercial mission of Europe's new heavy-lift rocket Ariane 6 was called off due to an "anomaly" on the ground.

It was the latest of several postponements for the rocket as Europe seeks to secure independent access to space amid a shock rapprochement between Moscow and Washington.

"An anomaly was detected... a valve was found to be dysfunctional on one of the pipes that refuel the launcher," said Ariane chief David Cavailloles.

The launch had been scheduled to blast off from Europe's spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana at 1:24 pm (1624 GMT) Monday.

While there had been some scattered rain in Kourou, teams on the ground had received the green light until just minutes before blast off.

"The only possible decision now is to postpone the launch," said Cavailloles.

"I have no doubt that we will have another flight again soon," he added.

The launch was postponed as Europe seeks to reduce its reliance on the United States for securityand the European space industry struggles to remain competitive with Elon Musk's SpaceX.

The launcher was intended to place a French military satellite in orbit at an altitude of around 800 kilometers (500 miles) above Earth.

Europe has not been able to use Russia's Soyuz rockets since Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022, while the workhorse Ariane 5 was retired in 2023.

The planned Ariane 6 rocket launch comes as the European space industry struggles to remain competitive with Elon Musk's SpaceX.

'We must be united'

The mission had taken on greater symbolic significance after the administration of new US President Donald Trump initiated a surprise rapprochement with Russia, prompting European nations to close ranks.

"Europe must ensure its own security," ESA space transportation director Toni Tolker-Nielsen told a press conference in Kourou before the postponement was announced.

"We must be united," Cavailloles said, stressing the importance of "not depending on anyone else" to launch satellites "in today's world".

The space industry has been experiencing major upheavaland more is expected after SpaceX's billionaire founder Elon Musk recently became a prominent advisor to Trump.

"The concept of strategic autonomy, once mocked as a French whim, is at the heart of the Europe of tomorrow," France's research minister Philippe Baptiste told local media.

Europe's Ariane 6 rocket is seen ahead of its maiden launch in July 2024.

"The number of launches has explodednot only American, but also Chinese," said French General Philippe Steininger, a consultant at the space research institute CNES.

Initially planned for December, the Ariane 6 mission was delayed until February 26 and then to March 3. The next launch date is not yet known.

The mission is to take the CSO-3 satellite into space. CSO-3 will complete a network of three French military imaging satellites, with the first two launched in 2018 and 2020 on Soyuz rockets.

Heavy security

The satellites have "orbiting cameras that take images in both visible and infrared light all over the globe, which is very important for military operations," Michel Sayegh, the head of the French government's armament agency DGA, told AFP.

Given the military role of the satellite, strict security precautions were taken to limit access at the spaceport on the northern coast of South America, with French fighter jets deployed to patrol the surrounding skies.

It will be the second launch for Ariane 6, after its inaugural flight in July 2024.

The French military deployed to secure the launch site in Kourou, French Guiana.

Europe's smaller Vega-C launcher was earlier grounded for two years due to an accident that resulted in the loss of two satellites, only resuming flights in December 2024.

The mishap left Europe without a way to launch satellites into orbit for a year, following delays to Ariane 6 and the end of cooperation with Russia.

Europe has only a handful of military satellites, compared to the hundreds of the United States and China.

 2025 AFP
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Lotmaria passim, a parasite of honeybees that is found worldwide, was only identified in 2015, so researchers are striving to learn more about it. Credit: University of Alberta

Two common gut parasites have been found to alter the behavior and physiology of honeybees in ways that could harm the health and productivity of entire colonies.

A recent study published in the International Journal for Parasitology shows that the parasitesNosema ceranae and Lotmaria passimreduced the production of vitellogenin, an important protein for bee health and development, which in turn triggered earlier foraging.

Nosema ceranae is a common parasitic fungus that can replicate rapidly in the digestive tract of honeybees, explains lead author Courtney MacInnis, who conducted the research as a doctoral candidate in the Department of Biological Sciences.

"It's a highly specialized fungus and it's really environmentally resistant, so when it gets into the bee it's difficult to treat," she says.

"The parasite has been associated with increased colony mortality, changes in bee behavior and physiology, as well as changes in bee learning and memory."

Like Nosema ceranae, Lotmaria passima trypanosomatid parasite related to parasites that are involved in Chagas disease and sleeping sickness in humansis found worldwide and commonly infects honeybees. However, it was only identified in 2015, so researchers are still seeking more information about its transmission and influence.

"We don't really know a whole lot about Lotmaria beyond that it seems to affect bee survival in cages, and can affect bee behavior and physiology," says MacInnis, who was part of the team responsible for starting the Lotmaria culture at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's (AAFC's) Beaverlodge Research Farm that was used for this experiment.

The researchers studied the effects of the parasites both individually and when bees were infected with both, finding that the lowest vitellogenin levels were found in bees that had both parasites.

The two parasites, both individually and together, ultimately change the division of labor in the colony among worker bees because they reduce vitellogenin production and thereby alter foraging behavior.

As MacInnis explains, honeybees have an "age-based division of labor"they have different jobs within the colony depending on their age.

The process of transitioning to a different role in a honeybee's lifespan is sparked by vitellogenin, a "protein that's produced in the fat body of the bee, kind of analogous to the human liver," as well as juvenile hormone, a hormone that regulates bee behavior and development.

When bees are young, their roles in the colony typically involve tasks like nursing larvae, cleaning out cells, and feeding and attending to the queen, says MacInnis. As they grow older, they transition to tasks outside the colony, like foraging for nectar and pollen or guarding the colony.

Young bees have larger amounts of vitellogenin and not much juvenile hormone, and the balance switches as they age, with older bees producing less vitellogenin and much more juvenile hormone. By reducing vitellogenin levels, the parasites shift this balance and accelerate the bee's internal clock.

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"The parasite can change that transition, so you get bees doing tasks that are advanced for their age."

On an individual level, this has the potential to wear out a bee's flight muscles at an earlier age, which can reduce lifespan. But the main disruption is to the colony as a whole, with potentially long-lasting effects.

"If you have younger bees foraging earlier than they should, you can be missing a group of bees inside the colony doing a critical job," says MacInnis. This can mean a smaller colony overall or one that produces far less honey or doesn't have an adequate population to keep itself warm and sustained through the winter months. If critical tasks such as nursing the larvae to adulthood are neglected, it can even lead to the colony dying out.

Though the two parasites are known to be associated with colony losses, there hasn't been much research done at the colony level because it's a very challenging undertaking.

"It requires culturing the parasites, infecting the bees and individually putting them back into colonies," explains Stephen Pernal, a research scientist at Beaverlodge Research Farm and national lead of the AAFC's Apiculture Research Program. "A whole lot of effort and skills are required to do it."

MacInnis, now a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Lethbridge, is still working with the Lotmaria culture. There's currently no management strategy for the relatively new parasite, so more knowledge about its impact on honeybees could be vital.

She plans to examine how temperature affects transmission and infectivity, as well as whether susceptibility to the parasite differs in bees from different colonies around the world.

More information: Courtney I. MacInnis et al, Effects of Nosema ceranae and Lotmaria passim infections on honey bee foraging behaviour and physiology, International Journal for Parasitology (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.12.003
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QPI methods assessed using clinical microscopy images depicting two overlapping (two upper rows) and an individual (two lower rows) epithelial cells. Credit: arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2406.04388

Quantitative phase imaging (QPI) is a microscopy technique widely used to investigate cells. Even though earlier biomedical applications based on QPI have been developed, both acquisition speed and image quality need to improve to guarantee a widespread reception.

Scientists from the Gorlitz-based Center for Advanced Systems Understanding (CASUS) at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) as well as Imperial College London and University College London suggest leveraging an optical phenomenon called chromatic aberrationthat usually degrades image qualityto produce suitable images with standard microscopes.

By employing a generative AI model, just one single exposure is needed to obtain the image quality necessary to make QPI attractive for applications in biomedicine. The team presented the work in late February at the 39th Annual Conference on AI by the Association for the Advancement of AI (AAAI 2025) organized this year in Philadelphia. The corresponding conference paper is available on the arXiv preprint server.

Labeling biological samples with dyes or other agents reveals valuable insights. But this approach has some disadvantages that hinder its widespread usage in clinical diagnostics: It is time-consuming, and expensive equipment as well as reagents are needed.

Research in the past years has therefore centered on certain label-free microscopy methods like QPI. Here, not only the magnitude of light absorbed from or scattered by the sample is of interest. Using the scattering information, QPI also captures how the sample shifts the phase of light passing through ita change that is directly related to its thickness, refractive index, and other structural properties. While QPI requires quite expensive equipment, computational QPI does not.

One of the most prominent computational QPI approaches is solving the Transport-of-Intensity Equation (TIE). This differential equation allows calculating an image of the sample based on the recorded phase changes. The approach is easy to integrate into an existing optical microscope set-up and results in good-quality images.

On the downside, the TIE method often requires multiple acquisitions with different focus distances to get rid of artifacts. Dealing with through-focus stacks can be time-consuming and technically demanding, so this type of TIE-based QPI is often not feasible in a clinical setting.

Making use of chromatic aberration

"Our approach relies on similar principles to TIE but only needs one image because of a clever combination of physics and generative AI," says Prof. Artur Yakimovich, Leader of a CASUS Young Investigator Group and corresponding author of the work presented at the AAAI Conference.

The information about the phase shift induced by the biological specimen does not come from additional exposures taken with other focus distances. A through-focus stack can also be generated from one single exposure thanks to a phenomenon called chromatic aberration.

Most lens systems of the microscope cannot bring all wavelengths of (polychromatic) white light to a single converging point perfectlya handicap that only highly specialized lenses can correct. This means, for example, red, green and blue (RGB) light have slightly different focus distances.

"By recording the phase shifts of those three wavelengths separately using a conventional RGB detector, one can build a through-focus stack that facilitates computational QPI turning the handicap into an asset," Yakimovich explains.

"Using chromatic aberrations to realize QPI poses one challenge: The distance between the red light focus and the blue light focus is very small," says Gabriel della Maggiora, Ph.D. student at CASUS and one of the two lead authors of the publication. Solving the TIE the standard way just does not give meaningful results.

"We then reasoned that we could use artificial intelligence. As it turned out, this idea proved to be decisive," della Maggiora adds. "After training a generative AI model with an open-access data set consisting of 1.2 million images, the model was able to retrieve phase information even though just relying on the very limited data input from the recording."

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Method validated on real-world clinical specimen

The team drew on a generative AI model for image quality improvement presented last spring: the Conditional Variational Diffusion Model (CVDM). It belongs to a particular family of generative AI models named diffusion models. The developers emphasize that training a CVDM needs significantly less computational effort than training other diffusion models, while the results are the same or even better.

Harnessing a CVDM strategy, della Maggiora and colleagues developed a novel diffusion model that is applicable for quantitative data. With this model, they are now able to finally realize computational QPI based on chromatic aberrations.

They validated their generative AI-based approach using, for example, a common brightfield microscope equipped with a commercially available color camera to make microscopic images from real-world clinical specimens. Analyzing red blood cells in a human urine sample, the method was able to unveil the donut-like shape of these cells whereas another, established computational TIE-based approach was not.

An additional advantage was the virtual absence of cloud artifacts in the images calculated with the new generative AI-based quantitative phase imaging variant.

The Yakimovich group "Machine Learning for Infection and Disease" develops novel computational techniques for microscopy that could be immediately applied in clinical settings. The potential, for example, in diagnostics, is huge. Among the techniques used is generative AI. As generative AI is prone to producing hallucinations, a main focus of the group is to reduce them.

Incorporating physics-based elements is the key approach here. As the AI-based quantitative phase imaging example shows, this approach is very promising.

More information: Gabriel della Maggiora et al, Single Exposure Quantitative Phase Imaging with a Conventional Microscope using Diffusion Models, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2406.04388 Journal information: arXiv
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Word cloud visualizing the most frequent words occurring within sentences that contain one or more men and masculinity keywords. Word size is based on word frequencies in the source material as a weighted list. Credit: Cultural Sociology (2025). DOI: 10.1177/17499755241307414

The extremist radicalization of boys and men by "manfluencer" Andrew Tate shares concerning parallels to other forms of radicalization, such as terrorist and religious extremism, a Monash University study has found.

Published in Cultural Sociology, the analysis of more than 2200 posts by Tate on his website and messaging platform Telegram demonstrates that what might seem like innocuous or harmless "self-improvement" content is a gateway to more dangerous misogynistic and extremist content.

Monash University researchers, Professor Steven Roberts and Lecturer Dr. Stephanie Wescott, along with other colleagues, found almost nine in ten posts by Tate on his website and Telegram account focus on advancing particular projections of what he views as the ideal manifestation of manhood and masculinity.

In these posts, comprising 89% of the analyzed content, Tate positions his version of masculinity as something aspirational that will "free" men by giving them money and power.

This finding stands at odds with popular understanding of Tate's fixation on the place of women in society, which features in only 11% of his website and Telegram content.

Professor Roberts, head of the School of Education, Culture and Society in the Faculty of Education, said the research proves the viral social media clips amplifying Tate's views don't accurately capture the most alarming of his harmful commentary.

"What we see in these longer-form texts are Tate's unfiltered views and framing of masculinity, and is framed as 'self-help' content for men and boys to reach a superior version of themselves," Professor Roberts said.

"The way Tate is manipulating boys and men to conform to this restrictive and narrow-minded interpretation of what a male should look and act like has the potential to be hugely damaging to culture and society in a wider sense.

"It's concerning because it is reminiscent of the kind of messaging that drives those who feel disenfranchised by their community to identify with and act out the teachings of fringe religious or political extremist groups."

The research analyzed posts on Tate's website and Telegram account between 31 December 2019 and 9 January 2024, totaling 2191 posts on Telegram and 64 webpages.

Dr. Wescott, who researches the impact of Tate's "manfluencing" on boys in Australian schools, said the analysis highlights the need to address the dangerous influence of Tate and others on boys and men in a rapidly changing world.

"Most people who see short clips of Andrew Tate and others like him would understandably think his focus is on misogyny and sexism," she said.

"While that is undoubtedly part of their rhetoric, it shadows in comparison to the more nuanced attacks he wages against boys and men who he views as not subscribing to his very rigid interpretation of masculinity.

"What gives this content its appeal is that it's packaged as a self-improvement product with hateful themes subtly woven in.

"As with any form of extremism, this feel and appearance of non-threatening, non-radical, and life-improving support is what makes it insidious, attractive and ultimately influential."

Also collaborating on the paper were Deakin University research fellow Callum Jones, Western Sydney University Associate Professor Lucy Nicholas, and Coventry University (UK) Assistant Professor Marcus Maloney.

More information: Steven Roberts et al, Beyond the Clickbait: Analysing the Masculinist Ideology in Andrew Tate's Online Written Discourses, Cultural Sociology (2025). DOI: 10.1177/17499755241307414
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The Compact Fire Infrared Radiance Spectral tracker, or C-FIRST, is managed an operated by NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and supported by NASAs Earth Science Technology Office. Combining state-of-the-art imaging technology with a compact design, C-FIRST enables scientists to gather data about fires and their impacts on ecosystems with greater accuracy and speed than other instruments. C-FIRST was developed as a spaceborne instrument, and flew onboard NASAs B200 aircraft in January 2025 to conduct an airborne test. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Developed at NASA JPL, the science instrument gives researchers a more detailed picture of high-temperature surfaces, such as land scorched by wildfire, than previous infrared instruments.

The January wildfires in California devastated local habitats and communities. In an effort to better understand wildfire behavior, NASA scientists and engineers tried to learn from the events by testing new technology.

The new instrument, the Compact Fire Infrared Radiance Spectral Tracker (c-FIRST), was tested when NASA's B200 King Air aircraft flew over the wildfires in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena, California. Based at NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California, the aircraft used the c-FIRST instrument to observe the impacts of the fires in near real time. Due to its small size and ability to efficiently simulate a satellite-based mission, the B200 King Air is uniquely suited for testing c-FIRST.

Managed and operated by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, c-FIRST gathers thermal infrared images in high-resolution and other data about the terrain to study the impacts of wildfires on ecology. In a single observation, c-FIRST can capture the full temperature range across a wide area of wildland firesas well as the cool, unburned backgroundpotentially increasing both the quantity and quality of science data produced.

"Currently, no instrument is able to cover the entire range of attributes for fires present in the Earth system," said Sarath Gunapala, principal investigator for c-FIRST at NASA JPL. "This leads to gaps in our understanding of how many fires occur, and of crucial characteristics like size and temperature."

For decades, the quality of infrared images has struggled to convey the nuances of high-temperature surfaces above 1,000F (550C). Blurry resolution and light saturation of infrared images has inhibited scientists' understanding of extremely hot terrain, thereby also inhibiting wildfire research. Historically, images of extremely hot targets often lacked the detail scientists need to understand the range of a fire's impacts on an ecosystem.

To address this, NASA's Earth Science Technology Office supported NASA JPL's development of the c-FIRST instrument, combining state-of-the-art imaging technology with a compact and efficient design. When c-FIRST was airborne, scientists could detect smoldering fires more accurately and quickly, while also gathering important information on active fires in near real time.

"These smoldering fires can flame up if the wind picks up again," said Gunapala. "Therefore, the c-FIRST data set could provide very important information for firefighting agencies to fight fires more effectively."

For instance, c-FIRST data can help scientists estimate the likelihood of a fire spreading in a certain landscape, allowing officials to more effectively monitor smoldering fires and track how fires evolve. Furthermore, c-FIRST can collect detailed data that can enable scientists to understand how an ecosystem may recover from fire events.

"The requirements of the c-FIRST instrument meet the flight profile of the King Air," said KC Sujan, operations engineer for the B200 King Air. "The c-FIRST team wanted a quick integration, the flight speed in the range 130 and 140 knots on a level flight, communication and navigation systems, and the instrument's power requirement that are perfectly fit for King Air's capability."

By first testing the instrument onboard the B200 King Air, the c-FIRST team can evaluate its readiness for future satellite missions investigating wildfires. On a changing planet where wildfires are increasingly common, instruments like c-FIRST could provide data that can aid firefighting agencies to fight fires more effectively, and to understand the ecosystemic impacts of extreme weather events.

Provided by NASA
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Hurricane Helene damage across Western NC on Oct. 9 and 10, 2024. Credit: NCDOTcommunications via Wikimedia

In early November 2024, I sat with some friends on the steps of Columbia University's Low Library, feeling the sun beat down on us in our t-shirts and summer dresses. It was a whopping 70F outside.

"It's not supposed to be this warm," we all agreed.

My little sister called from the U.K. to commiserate about a recent conversation with our parents. "They just said climate change isn't real. Well, not isn't real, but that it's natural and it's not as serious as people say it is," she complained.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. I am in New York studying at the Climate School, devoting my life to understanding and combating the crisis, yet my own parents don't think it's a big deal.

I bet most people have someone like this in their lives. The conspiracy-theorist uncle, the skeptical cousin, the grandmother who shares YouTube videos claiming global warming is fake news. A 2020 survey found that roughly 25% of the U.S. population expressed some agreement with the sentiment that climate change is a hoax.

Lately, I've become a little obsessed with climate conspiracies. Douglas and Sutton define conspiracy theories as "a belief that two or more actors have coordinated in secret to achieve an outcome, and that their conspiracy is of public interest, but not public knowledge."

Climate change is fertile ground for these theories because the science is so complex. It's full of intricate models, probability ranges and uncertainties that require us to grasp long-term trends rather than just immediate cause and effect. The public is expected to trust scientists as they warn about shifting jet streams, ocean currents and radiative forcing, while fossil fuel lobbyists, podcast hosts and social media sometimes push a simpler, more enticing narrative: it's all a hoax.

Hence, conspiracy theories offer an easy, emotionally satisfying answer to a complicated problem. Instead of facing the reality of climate change, or reckoning with their own complicity, people can choose a different story: that climate disasters are manipulated, that scientists are corrupt, and that the crisis is exaggerated for political gain.

After Hurricane Helene made landfall in the U.S. in autumn 2024, killing over 100 people in North Carolina alone, I scrolled through Twitter and was shocked to see thread after thread accusing Democrats of manipulating the storm. According to these posts, it was a manufactured catastrophe designed to access critical minerals, punish red states ahead of the election, or even claimed as God's punishment for Democratic policies such as abortion. It would be laughable if it weren't so dangerous.

As climate change intensifies, so do the disasters that come with it. Conspiracies thrive in disaster zones. When something big happens, people search for answers, and more importantly, for someone to blame. They are drawn to the idea that powerful groups are secretly manipulating the world around us.

Research has shown that conspiracy theories actively undermine environmental policies by steering people away from climate-friendly actions. In the wake of major hurricanes, misinformation can weaken public trust in disaster response agencies, leading people to reject evacuation orders or refuse government aid.

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Online conspiracies have even inspired real-world threats, with FEMA officials receiving death threats for their supposed role in "weaponizing" natural disasters. Meanwhile, meteorologists have been harassed and even doxxed for supposedly "pushing the climate agenda."

Indeed, conspiracy theories are intensifying as quickly as the storms themselves  and spreading even faster. Conspiracy theories are most powerful when they exploit deep-seated fears and insecurities. A fundamental human motivation is self-enhancement  the need to feel good about oneself and maintain self-esteem. People also want to believe they are heading toward a good future and that their prospects are secure.

Climate change presents an existential threat to these beliefs, not just about individual morality, but about the legitimacy of entire societies. Admitting the scale of the crisis means reckoning with uncomfortable truths: that our way of life is unsustainable, that the systems we rely on are deeply flawed, that those in power are failing us, and that the future will be radically different. For many, it's easier to deny reality than to face it.

So, what do we do?

When my sister called me in November, she asked what to say to Mum and Dad. She's just 16 and doesn't know all the science behind climate change yet. I wanted to start telling her about carbon cycles and feedback loops, about ocean currents and tipping points, and all the catastrophes that will come. But instead, I told her to take a deep breath, go back downstairs, and enjoy dinner with our parents. Because here's the truth: Arguing with a diehard conspiracy theorist will not change their mind.

Instead of wasting energy debating those who refuse to listen, we need to focus on the much bigger middle ground: people who are skeptical, uncertain or disengaged. Many feel psychologically distant from climate change, seeing it as someone else's problem or as an abstract issue that doesn't affect their daily lives.

Others, particularly in wealthy countries, experience solution aversion fearing that climate solutions will be worse than climate change itself, and that they will cost them their lifestyle and freedoms. And then there are those who feel powerless. The crises pile up, the disasters get worse, and it starts to feel like nothing we do will ever be enough. This doomism is just as paralyzing as outright denial.

However, there is hope here, too. This middle ground can be nudged toward action. This is where we, as climate communicators, should focus our attention.

If we want to shift the middle ground, we have to be persistent. Be kind. Be patient. And most importantly, be willing to work with people we don't fully agree with. Some of the most powerful climate action will come not from perfect ideological alignment, but from productive tension, from unlikely partnerships that find common ground despite their differences. We don't have to agree on everything to make progress.

Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe argues that we should begin these conversations with our shared values. Instead of hammering people with facts, we should start with what we agree on. Energy, for example, is common ground; we all want reliable, affordable power. And transforming our energy systems is the fastest way to cut emissions. The same goes for water; everyone wants safe, clean, unpolluted water. These are entry points, openings for discussion, not just about climate change itself, but about the future we want to build.

So no, I won't be spending my time arguing with people who think hurricanes are government-controlled weapons, even my own family. Instead, I'll continue talking about climate with everyone else who will listen, finding common ground and shifting perspectives. I suggest you do the same. Because we need as many people as possible, in every country and every industry, to join this fight.

This story is republished courtesy of Earth Institute, Columbia University http://blogs.ei.columbia.edu.
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

At a dire point in the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort, some say hope is springing from an unlikely place: the state of Pennsylvania.

Maryland and other states filed a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency in 2020, arguing that heavily agricultural Pennsylvania was too far behind on its bay pollution commitments, and that the federal government, under Donald Trump's guidance, was ignoring its obligation to drop the hammer.

The lawsuit was settled in 2023, with the EPA pledging to hold Pennsylvania to account, and today, with Trump back in office, the rhetoric about the Keystone State is altogether different. Politicians and some bay advocates in Maryland say they consider Pennsylvania an ally rather than a foea stark change from years ago.

During a December convening of bay leaders, Gov. Wes Moore commended Pennsylvania's recent effort, saying: "This is what it looks like when we have a united front to solve a big problem."

'A whole bunch of chemicals'

At the Pennsylvania Farm Show in January, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro roamed from booth to booth in the Harrisburg convention hall, stopping to watch a demonstration about farm field erosion.

A showerhead sprayed small patches of grass in boxes, and a single patch with no plants at all, demonstrating the rapid erosion of fallow farmland.

"For a lot of years, Pennsylvania, as a result of this," Shapiro said, gesturing toward the muddy soil, "was seeing a whole bunch of chemicals spill off into our waterways and pollute the Chesapeake Bay."

Shapiro's state is home to 7.3 million acres of farmland, which pours polluted runoff into its thousands of miles of streams, many of which lead to the nation's largest estuary. Thanks to livestock manure and other fertilizers, that runoff includes harmful nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus, which fill waterbodies with algae and deplete them of oxygen.

Maryland and other groups filed suit against the EPA in 2020. It came after surges of pollution and debris flowed from Pennsylvania's Susquehanna River during a rainy 2018, and after the federal agency approved what was seen as a deficient pollution reduction plan for the state. Trump's EPA had also referred to the bay pollution program as "aspirational," rather than legally enforceable, infuriating environmentalists.

In short, Maryland and Pennsylvania were at odds.

But in 2022, Pennsylvania used federal coronavirus dollars to jump-start a $154 million program that would reimburse farmers for projects to reduce runoff, from fencing to keep livestock out of streams, to riparian buffersrows of newly planted trees meant to slow erosion near stream banks.

The following April, after lengthy negotiations between EPA, Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the 2020 lawsuit was resolved, with the EPA agreeing to increase its scrutiny on Pennsylvania farming operations.

And in 2024, Pennsylvania lawmakers further committed $50 million in state funding to sustain the program beyond 2026, when ARPA funding would run dry.

"We're cleaning up the bay. Pennsylvania's doing a great job with that, and that's great for everybody," said Shapiro, a Democrat.

A difficult juncture

The program was long-awaited. Similar cost-share programs for farm conservation efforts were passed in Maryland and Virginia in the 1980s. And since then, the goalposts have moved, with scientific groups calling for conservation measures to be selected based on ecological benefits rather than being chosen by farmers.

The infusion of cash and talking points from Pennsylvania also comes at a difficult juncture for the decades-long bay cleanup effort, with its 2025 pollution deadline unmet.

The vast majority of the bay states, including Maryland and Virginia, fell well short of their 2025 commitments. And Pennsylvania didn't just miss the mark by a little. The Keystone State has achieved 29% of its required reductions in nitrogen, 50% for phosphorus and 58% for sediment, according to the EPA.

As of 2024, 29.8% of the bay and its tributaries met water quality standards, including for clarity and algae growth. Go back to 1985, and the figure was 26.5%, showing just how little progress has been made.

Meanwhile, the second Trump administration, which has sought to weaken environmental regulation, arrived in Washington with a bang. Funding freezes, buyout offers and personnel changes meant to shrink government have thrust the EPA into chaos alongside other federal agencies.

Observers worry the EPA's Chesapeake Bay Program could fall into the president's crosshairs.

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The bay cleanup under Trump

During his first term, Trump unsuccessfully proposed defunding the Chesapeake Bay Program.

Jon Mueller, the former vice president for litigation at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, worries Trump will go further this time, attempting to revoke a key regulation underpinning the restoration effort known as the Chesapeake Bay TMDL.

The TMDL, established in 2010 by President Barack Obama's administration and compelled by litigation, set a "total maximum daily load," for the amount of polluting nutrients entering the bay.

It was the largest-ever TMDL pursued by the EPA, and it faced swift legal challenges, including from the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Association of Homebuilders. The case lasted for five years, with the TMDL ultimately winning out.

"If they decide to just abandon it, then we're fighting over whether there should be a TMDL or not. We're right back to where we were in 2010," Mueller said.

These days, the bay states are working on rewriting their 2014 compact to set new goals for an unspecified deadline beyond 2025. And some observers and politicians still strike an optimistic tone. With Pennsylvania leaders enthusiastically involved in the clean-up, things feel different, they say.

"The states can step it up and maintain the momentum. We just have to touch on it in different terms. Think about [the bay] as an economic driver, an economic engine. Think about it as a powerful, bipartisan kind of effort. So, I'm not all doom and gloom," said Bill Dennison, a professor and vice president for science applications at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science.

In July, the center unveiled its annual bay report, featuring the estuary's highest score in decadesa C-plus. With the northern section of the bay among the healthiest areas, Dennison decided to hold an event associated with the report in Harrisburg, to celebrate Pennsylvania's agricultural improvements.

Afterward, he heard from Maryland farmers, who argued that they had been doing the same best practices for decades.

"My comeback to them is: We spent 40 years since the beginning of the bay program pointing fingers and bad-mouthing Pennsylvania. It hasn't gotten us a whole lot. Let's try something different," Dennison said.

Behind the curve?

Becky Nas, a farmer in Gettysburg, is a recipient of some of the Pennsylvania funding initiative, called the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program. Two days before Christmas, workers finished constructing a manure storage area for her chicken litter and cattle manure, shielding it from the elements.

Her farm borders the Rock Creek, which eventually flows into the Chesapeake. She was delighted to learn of the report card score last year.

"It's nice to know that what we're doing and the decisions we're making are having an impact," she said.

Her farm's manure area is one of 1,236 environmental projects fueled so far by the new influx of funding from the legislature.But some argue that Pennsylvania is still running behind.

A stinging report from the Chesapeake Bay Program in May 2023called the Comprehensive Evaluation of System Responsediagnosed the shortcomings of the restoration. Among its findings? Voluntary programs paying farmers to implement conservation measures weren't going far enough. Instead, farmers ought to be paid based on the pollution reduction associated with their practices, evaluated by third parties.

But that sentiment seems to have been buried by politicians, who appear reluctant to take a harder tack on the agriculture industry, said Gerald Winegrad, a retired Maryland legislator who helped craft Maryland's own farm cost-sharing program.

"We need independent evaluations," he said. "Why didn't they work? They didn't work as well as they were supposed to, because there was no verification."

Driving through Pennsylvania farmland, Ted Evgeniadis, the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper, said he can see the difference.

"You can pass a farm and see: well, now there's a designated cattle crossing. There's a riparian buffer," he said. "Any time you see tree tubes, that's a good sign."

But Evgeniadis sees the bad and the ugly along with the good.

His team began a new bacteria monitoring program in 2024, and immediately found concerning bacteria results for the Pequea Creek, a Susquehanna tributary that runs through Lancaster County, which is surrounded by farmland, suggesting that farm runoff could be to blame.

"Each week was above and beyond any kind of state recreational standard. We have to scratch our heads and wonder why," he said.

'Scared to death'

John Painter, a dairy farmer in northern Pennsylvania, puts it bluntly.

"We used to think of them as the police. The minute you mentioned EPA, people would be backed up and scared to death," said Painter, chair of the dairy committee at the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

But in recent years, the relationship has thawed considerably, in part because the EPA approached farmers differently, said Chris Hoffman, a first-generation pig farmer in Central Pennsylvania, and president of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

"I'd never experienced someone coming and saying: 'I want to learn,'" Hoffman said.

That was the approach taken by Adam Ortiz, the Marylander appointed by President Joe Biden to lead the EPA's Mid-Atlantic region office, Hoffman said.

On the day of Trump's inauguration, Ortiz resigned, for a new deputy secretary post at the Maryland Department of the Environment.

In an article published in the Environmental Law Reporter last year, Mueller, who is also the director of the Environmental Law Clinic at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, said the EPA and the bay states "have continually bowed to powerful economic and political interests" and declined to take more aggressive steps, such as objecting to inadequate water pollution permits that make the bay goals challenging to achieve.

Ortiz has said that while Pennsylvania needed more scrutiny and enforcement from EPA, he favored a balanced approach, which he referred to as "tough love."

"We increased our inspections and other enforcement actions several factors over, but at the same time, we leaned in and listened and provided thoughtful assistance and encouraged others to step up," Ortiz said.

That included Pennsylvania's own Hershey Company, which pledged $1 million, alongside an equal contribution from the EPA, to conservation measures on Land O'Lakes dairy farms in the state. The actions have helped to bring the large number Pennsylvania's small farms into the fold, which fall outside the regulatory purview of the EPA, Ortiz said.

Early on, leaders on the bipartisan Chesapeake Bay Commission, including Ortiz and Sarah Elfreth, then a Maryland Senator, began whipping votes in the Pennsylvania legislature, advocating for the state to voluntarily commit some of its coronavirus relief funding to the agricultural cleanup program.

"Part of my strategy here was: Meet them where they are. Let's not try to cudgel them into caring about the things that Marylanders care about," said Elfreth, who was elected to Congress in November.

Elfreth was joined by Republican senators from Pennsylvania, like Gene Yaw, who took a similar approach. His district in Pennsylvania stretches all the way to New York. His constituents don't head south toward the Chesapeake for water recreation, but rather lakes up north.

"I stopped talking about the bay. And I said, 'Here's what we need to do: It's in our own best interest if we clean up our own water,"' Yaw said. "We can either do this ourselves, or somebody's going to force us to do somethingand we might not like what they force us to do."

2025 The Baltimore Sun. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Pok Rie from Pexels

Moss crusts, an advanced form of biological soil crusts, play a crucial role in stabilizing soil phosphorus levels in desert ecosystems. A recent study, published in CATENA, highlights how patch size influences soil phosphorus fractions in biological soil crusts in the Gurbantunggut Desert, China.

Led by Prof. Zhang Yuanming from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the researchers examined the relationship between patch size and soil phosphorus fractions.

By collecting 180 samples of moss crusts of different patch sizes from three sampling sites across the desert, they employed linear regression analysis and structural equation modeling to assess both direct and indirect effects of patch size on soil phosphorus dynamics.

Additionally, they constructed a structural equation model to investigate both the direct and indirect effects of patch size on soil phosphorus fractions, taking into account soil environment and nutrient factors.

They found that in moss crust patches, the hard-to-use HCl-Pi was predominant. As patch size increases, moss crust growth promotes the transformation of inorganic phosphorus into organic phosphorus, thereby reducing soil phosphorus bioavailability. Furthermore, they revealed that patch size indirectly affects soil phosphorus fractions by influencing soil nutrients, metal elements, and phosphatase activity.

This study provides critical insights into soil phosphorus dynamics and emphasizes the ecological importance of biological soil crusts in desert ecosystems, providing valuable knowledge for initiatives aimed at desert ecosystem restoration.

More information: Ziyue Yang et al, Patch size indirectly influences the distribution characteristics of phosphorus fractions in temperate desert moss crust soils, CATENA (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.catena.2025.108821
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Credit: Edvin Richardson from Pexels

Europe's new heavy-lift rocket Ariane 6 is set to carry out its first commercial mission on Monday as Europe seeks to secure independent access to space amid a shock rapprochement between Moscow and Washington.

The high-profile mission comes as Europe seeks to reduce its reliance on the United States for security while the European space industry struggles to remain competitive with Elon Musk's SpaceX.

Following several postponements, the Ariane 6 rocket is scheduled to blast off from Europe's spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana at 1:24 pm (1624 GMT) Monday.

Under a light tropical rain, the frame called a gantry was removed from the launchpad overnight, unsheathing the rocket a few hours before blast off.

The launcher will carry a French military satellite, which will be placed in orbit at an altitude of around 800 kilometers (500 miles).

The CSO-3 satellite is expected to strengthen France's military autonomy and improve its army's intelligence capabilities.

Europe has not been able to use Russia's Soyuz rockets since Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022, while the workhorse Ariane 5 was retired in 2023.

Europe "cannot have a space policy today without having the means to send our satellites into space independently," Lionel Suchet, the acting head of French space agency CNES, told AFP.

'Strategic autonomy'

Initially planned for December, the mission was delayed until February 26 and then to March 3.

It will be the second flight for Ariane 6, after its first successful launch in July.

"This mission is just as important as the inaugural flightit must be successful," CNES director of space transport Carine Leveau told AFP.

CSO-3 will complete a network of three French military imaging satellites, with the first two launched in 2018 and 2020 on Soyuz rockets.

"It's always better to have your own launcher and to fire it from home," General Philippe Steininger, a CNES consultant, told AFP.

"For several years we have been confronted with SpaceX, Elon Musk and his sometimes very aggressive positions, made possible by massive financial support from the US," France's research minister Philippe Baptiste told the newspaper La Tribune.

Musk's new "dual role" as a close adviser to US President Donald Trump could have major repercussions throughout the space industry, said Baptiste, a former CNES head.

"The concept of strategic autonomy, once mocked as a French whim, is at the heart of the Europe of tomorrow."

Given the military role of the satellite, strict security precautions were being taken to limit access at the spaceport on the northern coast of South America, with three Rafale fighter jets deployed to patrol the surrounding skies.

The satellites have "orbiting cameras that take images in both visible and infrared light all over the globe, which is very important for military operations," Michel Sayegh, the head of the French government's armament agency DGA, told AFP.

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'Autonomous access to space'

After being grounded for two years due to an accident that resulted in the loss of two satellites, Europe's smaller Vega-C launcher did not resume flights until December 2024.

The mishap left Europe without a way to launch satellites into orbit for a year, following delays to Ariane 6 and the end of cooperation with Russia.

"It was very important for France and for Europe to regain this autonomous access to space," Suchet told AFP, emphasizing that all launches were "risky".

Some of the images taken by the CSO-3 satellite will be shared with Germany, Belgium and Sweden.

The launch will be the first of 32 planned missions for the Ariane 6 over the coming years from Kourou.

"The whole world is watching us," David Cavailloles, chief executive of French aerospace company Arianespace, told AFP last month.

 2025 AFP
China commenced construction on a research facility focused on the cold-seep ecosystem on Friday in Guangzhou, south China's Guangdong Province.

The research facility, designated as one of the country's major national science and technology infrastructure projects, will support cutting-edge fundamental research and high-tech development. Its scope will encompass the exploration of the origins of life in extreme deep-sea environments and the green development of deep-sea resources.

A cold seep is a region on the ocean floor where hydrogen sulfide, methane and other hydrocarbon-rich fluid seep out. These areas are a birthplace for life that can thrive under extreme conditions.

The study of cold seep is gaining increasing attention; however one challenge lies in the limitations of short-term, random underwater probes deployed by manned submersibles and remotely operated vehicles. These probes often struggle to capture long-term biological migration and the evolution of the ecosystem.

The research facility, combining a manned deep-sea laboratory and a land-based fidelity simulation installation, is set to be completed within five years, according to its builder, the South China Sea Institute of Oceanology (SCSIO) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

SCSIO said the facility will play an important role in research on the development of the cold-seep ecosystem, the succession of chemosynthetic organisms and methane phase evolution, and its environmental effects.
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Clothing and textile fibers released during the washing of synthetic fabrics are the most common type of microplastic identified in the rivers studied. Credit: M.Danny25/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

It is well known that microplastics are collecting in the world's oceans at an alarming rate, but research on the cancer-linked pollutant in rivers remains limited.

Now new evidence from two rivers in Latin America and the Caribbean shows that these tiny particles are present even in rural, downstream locations, highlighting the need to address their impacts on freshwater sources.

Microplasticsplastic particles less than five millimeters longpresent a serious health risk to humans and wildlife, due to their toxic effects and ability to act as carriers of other pollutants, and have been linked to a rise in cancer cases.

According to research published in Science, up to 40 million tons of these plastic fragments are estimated to be emitted into the environment each year and this could double by 2040 if the problem is not addressed.

Latin American studies on microplastics represent less than 5% of the global output on this topic, while research on their presence in the region's rivers is scarce.

This is despite Latin America being home to two of the 20 most plastic-polluted rivers on the planetthe Brazilian Amazon and the Magdalena River in Colombia.

Most existing Latin American studies focus on Brazil, Mexico and Chile, while in Argentina, the MappA project seeks to analyze more than 100 bodies of fresh water in 18 provinces of the country.

Cuba and Venezuela

In Cuba, new research published in Environmental Pollution examined microplastic pollution at sampling stations on two rivers: the Almendares, which runs through Havana, and the Banos del San Juan River, located in a rural area not far from the capital.

While the study found more microplastics in the urban river, the rural river did contain some plastic particles, showing that even areas without high concentrations of people experience this type of pollution.

The Venezuelan study, published in the Journal of Contaminant Hydrology, focused on Chichiriviche de la Costa, a small fishing village in the state of La Guaira, about 65 km from the country's capital, Caracas. The research compared the levels of microplastics upstream and downstream of the Chichi River and in the bay where it flows, which is where the town is located.

The results showed that plastic pollution in river sediment was almost four times more downstream, showing that the village is a major source of pollution.

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Interaction with organisms

Jose F. Grillo, co-author of the Venezuelan study, told SciDev.Net that it is essential to understand how microplastics behave in a "holistic" way, as well as analyze sources, sinks and their interaction with organisms, to "try to design interventions that can have an impact on this problem."

Both studies identified clothing and textile fibers as the most common type of microplastic, deriving from synthetic fabrics such as polyester, which release tiny fibers during washing.

In areas with poor wastewater treatment, these fibers enter rivers and eventually end up in the ocean.

The findings of the Cuban team describe a high presence of polyethylene terephthalate, commonly used in bags and packaging, and polypropylene, used in food containers and ropes.

Jeny Larrea, co-author of the Cuban study and professor at the University of Havana, told SciDev.Net: "These are the plastics that are most used in the packaging of personal care products, cleaning products, nylon bags, which corresponds to what is reported in the literature."

Both studies found that microplastic levels increased during the rainy season.

In Venezuela, the highest concentration of microplastics in Chichiriviche Bay was found near the mouth of the river, suggesting that the river acts as a direct channel of pollution from land to sea.

Microplastics also accumulate in river sediments. In Cuba, the data showed that plastic particles settle at the bottom of both rivers. The study found links between the presence of polypropylene and reduced activity of river microorganisms, indicating that these particles can disrupt natural processes such as the decomposition of organic matter.

These discoveries are an opportunity to advance a comprehensive analysis of microplastics as an environmental challenge that extends from land to sea, according to researchers.

However, there is a long way to go to better understand their impact on ecosystems and health.

Andreia Neves Fernandes, coordinator of the Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Emerging Pollutants at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, told SciDev.Net there was a need to investigate "how organisms internalize plastic waste and examine the possible synergistic and antagonistic effects between microplastics, other environmental pollutants and organic matter."

More information: Jeny Adina Larrea Murrell et al, Microplastics in Cuban freshwaters: Diversity, temporal changes, and effects on extracellular enzymatic activity, Environmental Pollution (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.125764 Jose F. Grillo et al, Rural village as a source of microplastic pollution in a riverine and marine ecosystem of the southern Venezuelan Caribbean, Journal of Contaminant Hydrology (2025). DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2025.104511 Journal information: Environmental Pollution , Science

Provided by SciDev.Net
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The sample return capsule from NASAs OSIRIS-REx mission is seen shortly after touching down in the desert, Sunday, Sept. 24, 2023. Credit: NASA

On December 3, 2018, NASA's Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security-Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx) successfully rendezvoused with the near-earth asteroid (NEA) 101955 Bennu. Over the next two years, the mission collected rock and regolith samples from the asteroid's surface. By September 24, 2023, the mission's sample return capsule (SRC) entered Earth's atmosphere and was collected by NASA scientists. Analysis of these samples is already providing insight into what conditions were like during the early solar system.

According to a recent study, the known trajectory and timing of the SRC's return provided a rare opportunity to record geophysical signals produced by the capsule using a new method. Because it was traveling at hypersonic speeds as it flew through the atmosphere, the SRC's return produced a sonic boom that impacted the ground. Using distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) interrogators and surface-draped fiber-optic cables, the team carried out the first reported recording of an SRC reentry with distributed fiber-optic sensing technology.

The team was led by Dr. Carly M. Donahue and consisted of her colleagues from the Earth and Environmental Sciences Division at the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), as well as the Department of Geosciences at Colorado State University and fiber optic-based distributed sensor developer Silixa LLC. The paper that details their findings, "Detection of a Space Capsule Entering Earth's Atmosphere with Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS)," recently appeared in the journal Seismological Research Letters.

Since the end of the Apollo Era, scientists have studied sample return capsules re-entering Earth's atmosphere. These studies have helped scientists develop safe and effective methods for sample-return missions and provided insight into the atmospheric entry of meteoroids and asteroids. Until now, these studies employed infrasound and seismic sensors to record the resulting geophysical signals. However, Dr. Donahue and her team saw an opportunity since the trajectory and timing of the OSIRIS-REx mission's SRC were known in advance.

The sample return capsule from the OSIRIS-REx mission is seen shortly after touching down in the Utah desert on September 24th, 2023. Credit: NASA/Keegan Barber

As Dr. Donahue told Universe Today via email, the reentry was a chance for them to test DAS systems with fiber optic cables to record the geophysical effects produced by the sonic boom. "DAS systems interrogating an optical fiber are still relatively rare," she said. "Knowing ahead of time the precise trajectory gave us the scarce opportunity to situate multiple DAS interrogators near the point of highest heating and capture the sonic boom as it impacted the ground."

The team rapidly deployed two DAS interrogators and more than 12 km (7.45 mi) of surface-draped fiber-optic cables. Their network included six collocated seismometer-infrasound sensor pairs, all spread across two sites near the town of Eureka in the Nevada Desert. As Dr. Donahue described:

"Once the team got the hang of rolling out the 4 spools of optical fiber that each weighed over 100 kgs, installing and retrieving the fiber took less time than setting up the six co-located seismic and infrasound stations. Approximately 5 km of the optical fiber was located at the local Eureka airport, along with many other teams deploying sensors such as infrasound, seismic, and GPS. The other 7 km of fiber was located along a remote dirt road in Newark Valley."

With the help of this network, the team obtained a stunning profile of the sonic boom as it struck the ground. The DAS interrogators recorded an impulsive arrival with an extended coda that had similar features to those recorded by the seismometers and infrasound sensors. Whereas traditional sensors only measure sonic booms at one point, Dr. Donahue said that her team's data revealed how the boom's wavefront transformed as it impacted the irregular terrain of the Nevada landscape.

In addition to being the first time these methods were used to record an SRC reentry, the results of this test could have significant implications when it comes to predicting potential meteor and asteroid strikes. Said Dr. Donahue:

"By having an extremely dense array of sensors, DAS has the possibility of better characterizing the trajectory and size of a meteor. The topology (e.g., hills) of the ground is known to have an influence on wavefront recorded at the surface of the earth. By having a dense line of sensors that span over the changes in the earth's elevation, these effects could be better accounted for to produce a more accurate characterization of a meteor's trajectory."

Following the completion of its primary mission, the OSIRIS-REx, NASA prepped the spacecraft for the next phase of its mission. In 2029, the spacecraftrenamed the OSIRIS-APEX (Apophis Explorer)will rendezvous with the near-earth asteroid 99942 Apophis and collect another sample.

More information: Chris G. Carr et al, Detection of a Space Capsule Entering Earth's Atmosphere with Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), Seismological Research Letters (2025). DOI: 10.1785/0220240394 Journal information: Seismological Research Letters
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The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded Starship after a previous flight in January ended with the upper stage disintegrating in a fiery cascade over the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Elon Musk has been making headlines for mass layoffs and funding cuts at US federal agencies under his so-called Department of Government Efficiency. But on Monday, his towering Starship rocket will return to the spotlight with its next test flight.

The world's biggest and most powerful launch vehicle is set for its eighth orbital mission, following a dramatic mid-air explosion over the Caribbean during its last trial.

A launch window opens at 5:30 pm (2330 GMT) from SpaceX's Starbase facility in Boca Chica, Texas, with the company carrying a live webcast of the event.

Standing 403 feet (123 meters) tallabout 100 feet taller than the Statue of LibertyStarship is designed to eventually be fully reusable and plays a crucial role in Musk and SpaceX's vision of colonizing Mars.

Meanwhile, NASA is awaiting a modified version of the rocket for its Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon.

The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grounded Starship after its previous flight on January 16 ended with the upper stage disintegrating in a fiery cascade over the Turks and Caicos Islands, prompting cleanup efforts for fallen debris.

On Friday, the FAA said Starship could return to flight before it finalizes its review of SpaceX's "mishap investigation."

During Joe Biden's presidency, Musk frequently accused the FAA of excessive scrutiny over SpaceX's safety and environmental concerns.

Now, as one of President Donald Trump's closest advisors, the world's richest person faces allegations of wielding undue influence over regulatory agencies overseeing his companies.

For the upcoming flight, SpaceX has introduced numerous upgrades to the upper-stage spacecraft, enhancing its reliability and performance.

The mission, expected to last just over an hour, includes another attempt to catch the booster stage using the launch tower's "chopstick" armsa feat SpaceX has successfully executed twice, including in the last flight.

Additionally, the company will deploy Starlink simulators designed to mimic next-generation Starlink satellites, which will burn up upon atmospheric re-entry.

Eventually, SpaceX aims to recover the upper stage as well, but for now, it is targeting an ocean splashdown off the west coast of Australia, as in previous flights.

Before Starship's ambitious goals of space exploration can be realized, SpaceX must prove the rocket is flightworthy and safe for crewed missions.

The company also needs to demonstrate complex in-orbit refuelingusing other Starships as fuel tankersto enable long-distance space travel.

 2025 AFP
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Defects in a flexible sheet. Credit: Dr. Camille Scalliet

Defects in two-dimensional materials (such as an atom-thick sheet of graphene) can dramatically alter the way that the surface ripples, even stopping the sheet in place like a freeze frame.

Rippling is a crucial property of 2D materials and influences strength, conductivity, chemical activity and fluid interactions. Understanding the relationship between rippling and defects is essential for key technologies such as flexible electronics, energy storage, catalysis and nanofluidics. New research on this topic is published in PNAS.

Dr. Fabian Thiemann, the first author of the paper, started this research during his Ph.D. between UCL, the University of Cambridge and Imperial College London, and is now a Research Scientist at IBM.

He said, "While experiments can capture the overall shape of rippled membranes, they struggle to resolve how these structures evolve at the atomic scale over time. Our simulations bridge this gap, allowing us to track the rippling dynamics in detail and uncover the role of microscopic defects in shaping the material's morphology."

Frozen ripples

Two-dimensional materials are at the forefront of technological research, such as in ultra-thin flexible screens, faster electronics, and water filtration. What may seem like a flat surface, though, is never truly flat at the atomic level. Like a pond, these 2D surfaces have tiny ripples that affect their properties.

The researchers used machine learning-based computer models that represent 2D sheets of graphene and other materials. With these models, they can observe the rippling behavior of different materials with and without defects. They found that defects in the sheet affect the way that ripples move, and most crucially, that above a certain concentration, the defects freeze the membrane and it loses its flexibility.

Professor Angelos Michaelides in the ICE group at the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge commented, "The wholescale impact such a small proportion of defects can have on the dynamics of graphene is remarkable. The prospects for exploiting these new fundamental insights are exciting and numerous, particularly in nanofluidics."

A pristine sheet with no defects produces ripples. Credit: Dr. Camille Scalliet

Designing around defects

Dr. Camille Scalliet worked on this project when she was a Herchel Smith Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Cambridge, and is now a permanent researcher at the Laboratoire de Physique de l'Ecole Normale Superieure in Paris.

She remarked, "By understanding how defects influence these ripples, our work helps engineers control the physical behavior of these materials by using defectssomething traditionally considered undesirableas a design tool."

Erich A. Muller, Professor of Thermodynamics at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Imperial College London, added, "This work is a premier example of how machine learning potentials (a sub-discipline of artificial intelligence) are transforming the field of materials science by enabling more accurate, efficient, and data-driven predictions of material properties. This is accelerating materials discovery and design, leading to the development of novel materials with desired functionalities for various applications."

Looking ahead, the researchers are eager to build on these findings. Reflecting on the future of their research, Fabian Thiemann and Camille Scalliet stated, "There are great ways to continue this work. Our next steps are to study more complicated situations at the nanoscale, such as membranes in contact with water or other materials. This is just the beginning for this collaboration."

More information: Fabian L. Thiemann et al, Defects induce phase transition from dynamic to static rippling in graphene, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2025). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2416932122 Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
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The North American Gulf Stream as illustrated with the ECCO model. Download this visualization from NASA Goddards Scientific Visualization Studio. Credit: Greg Shirah/NASAs Scientific Visualization Studio

Historically, the ocean has been difficult to model. Scientists struggled in years past to simulate ocean currents or accurately predict fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and other properties. As a result, models of ocean dynamics rapidly diverged from reality, which meant they could only provide useful information for brief periods.

In 1999, a project called Estimating the Circulation and Climate of the Ocean (ECCO) changed all that. By applying the laws of physics to data from multiple satellites and thousands of floating sensors, NASA scientists and their collaborators built ECCO to be a realistic, detailed, and continuous ocean model that spans decades. ECCO enabled thousands of scientific discoveries, and was featured during the announcement of the Nobel Prize for Physics in 2021.

NASA ECCO is a powerful integrator of decades of ocean data, narrating the story of Earth's changing ocean as it drives our weather, and sustains marine life.

The ECCO project includes hundreds of millions of real-world measurements of temperature, salinity, sea ice concentration, pressure, water height, and flow in the world's oceans. Researchers rely on the model output to study ocean dynamics and to keep tabs on conditions that are crucial for ecosystems and weather patterns. The modeling effort is supported by NASA's Earth science programs and by the international ECCO consortium, which includes researchers from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California and eight research institutions and universities.

The project provides models that are the best possible reconstruction of the past 30 years of the global ocean. It allows us to understand the ocean's physical processes at scales that are not normally observable.

ECCO and the western boundary currents

Large-scale wind patterns around the globe drag ocean surface waters with them, creating complex currents, including some that flow toward the western sides of the ocean basins. The currents hug the eastern coasts of continents as they head north or south from the equator: These are the western boundary currents. The three most prominent are the Gulf Stream, Agulhas, and Kuroshio.

Seafarers have known about the Gulf Streamthe Atlantic Ocean's western boundary currentfor more than 500 years. By the volume of water it moves, the Gulf Stream is the largest of the western boundary currents, transporting more water than all the planet's rivers combined.

Credits: Kathleen Gaeta Greer/ NASAs Scientific Visualization Studio

In 1785, Benjamin Franklin added it to maritime charts showing the current flowing up from the Gulf, along the eastern U.S. coast, and out across the North Atlantic. Franklin noted that riding the current could improve a ship's travel time from the Americas to Europe, while avoiding the current could shorten travel times when sailing back.

Franklin's charts showed a smooth Gulf Stream rather than the twisted, swirling path revealed in ECCO data. And Franklin couldn't have imagined the opposing flow of water below the Gulf Stream. The countercurrent runs at depths of about 2,000 feet (600 meters) in a cold river of water that is roughly the opposite of the warm Gulf Stream at the surface. The submarine countercurrent is clearly visible when the upper layers in the ECCO model are peeled away in visualizations.

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The Gulf Stream is a part of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which moderates climate worldwide by transporting warm surface waters north and cool underwater currents south. The Gulf Stream, in particular, stabilizes temperatures of the southeastern United States, keeping the region warmer in winter and cooler in summer than it would be without the current. After the Gulf Stream crosses the Atlantic, it tempers the climates of England and the European coast as well.

The Agulhas Current flows south along the western side of the Indian Ocean. When it reaches the southern tip of Africa, it sheds swirling vortices of water called Agulhas Rings. Sometimes persisting for years, the rings glide across the Atlantic toward South America, transporting small fish, larvae, and other microorganisms from the Indian Ocean.

Researchers using the ECCO model can study Agulhas Current flow as it sends warm, salty water from the tropics in the Indian Ocean toward the tip of South Africa. The model helps tease out the complicated dynamics that create the Agulhas rings and large loop of current called a supergyre that surrounds the Antarctic. The Southern Hemisphere supergyre links the southern portions of other, smaller current loops (gyres) that circulate in the southern Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian oceans. Together with gyres in the northern Atlantic and Pacific, the southern gyres and Southern Hemisphere supergyre influence climate while transporting carbon around the globe.

In addition to affecting global weather patterns and temperatures, western boundary currents can drive vertical flows in the oceans known as upwellings. The flows bring nutrients up from the depths to the surface, where they act as fertilizer for phytoplankton, algae, and aquatic plants.

The Kuroshio Current that runs on the west side of the Pacific Ocean and along the east side of Japan has recently been associated with upwellings that enrich coastal fishing waters. The specific mechanisms that cause the vertical flows are not entirely clear. Ocean scientists are now turning to ECCO to tease out the connection between nutrient transport and currents like the Kuroshio that might be revealed in studies of the water temperature, density, pressure, and other factors included in the ECCO model.

The Agulhas current originates along the equator in the Indian Ocean, travels down the western coast of Africa, and spawns swirling Agulhas rings that travel across the Atlantic toward South America. Download this visualization from NASA Goddards Scientific Visualization Studio. Credit: Greg Shirah/NASAs Scientific Visualization Studio

Tracking ocean temperatures and salinity

When viewed through the lens of ECCO's temperature data, western boundary currents carry warm water away from the tropics and toward the poles. In the case of the Gulf Stream, as the current moves to far northern latitudes, some of the saltwater freezes into salt-free sea ice. The saltier water left behind sinks and then flows south all the way toward the Antarctic before rising and warming in other ocean basins.

Currents also move nutrients and salt throughout Earth's ocean basins. Swirling vortexes of the Agulhas rings stand out in ECCO temperature and salinity maps as they move warm, salty water from the Indian Ocean into the Atlantic.

Experimenting with ECCO

ECCO offers researchers a way to run virtual experiments that would be impractical or too costly to perform in real oceans. Some of the most important applications of the ECCO model are in ocean ecology, biology, and chemistry. Because the model shows where the water comes from and where it goes, researchers can see how currents transport heat, minerals, nutrients, and organisms around the planet.

In prior decades, for example, ocean scientists relied on extensive temperature and salinity measurements by floating sensors to deduce that the Gulf Stream is primarily made of water flowing past the Gulf rather than through it. The studies were time-consuming and expensive. With the ECCO model, data visualizers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, virtually replicated the research in a simulation that was far quicker and cheaper.

The example illustrated here relies on ECCO to track the flow of water by virtually filling the Gulf with 115,000 particles and letting them move for a year in the model. The demonstration showed that less than 1% of the particles escape the Gulf to join the Gulf Stream.

Running such particle-tracking experiments within the ocean circulation models helps scientists understand how and where environmental contaminants, such as oil spills, can spread.

Take an ECCO deep dive

Today, researchers turn to ECCO for a broad array of studies. They can choose ECCO modeling products that focus on one featuresuch as global flows or the biology and chemistry of the oceanor they can narrow the view to the poles or specific ocean regions.

Every year, more than a hundred scientific papers include data and analyses from the ECCO model that delve into our oceans' properties and dynamics.

Provided by NASA
EGG HARBOR CITY  Stephen Sweeney is hoping to become the states next governor from South Jersey.

That quest continued in a county he has helped along the way in his political career.

Sweeney won the backing of Atlantic County Democrats on Sunday during their annual convention at Renault Winery. Sweeney and three other of the six Democratic hopefuls in the gubernatorial race were present at the 50th annual convention, where they spoke to a room of about 300 party supporters about why they hope to continue to fight President Donald Trumps administration.

It means a lot for me personally, because these are my neighbors, said Sweeney, 65, of West Deptford, Gloucester County. Ive worked 20 years to try to help Atlantic City and to make changes. ... I care about this community.

This is the first election cycle where winning the county party nomination will not get a candidate a prime spot on the ballot, known as the county line, in the June 10 primary. Because of that change, fewer Republican and Democratic candidates running in state elections have been appearing at these conventions. The Republican convention was held last weekend at the Carriage House in Galloway Township, where the local party backed Jack Ciattarelli for governor.

Its a struggle all 21 county organizations have to deal with to make sure you have the organization support to candidates up and down the ballot, said Atlantic County Democratic Chairman Michael Suleiman.

Sweeney hung around to hear the results of Sundays voting. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill and New Jersey Education Association President Sean Spiller left before voting ended, Sweeney pointed out. The other two candidates, Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop and U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, were no-shows.

Mr. Gottheimer decided not to contest our convention. Thats his prerogative. Mayor Fulop decided not to contest any conventions. I feel his rhetoric about these county conventions has been disappointing, Suleiman said. We have an open, fair and transparent process. ... But the other four, I give them a lot of credit. The fact they made time to come here, I think, is very important.

Jack Ciattarelli appears at Atlantic County convention for Republican gubernatorial nomination Republican gubernatorial hopeful Jack Ciattarelli was among the people backed Saturday morning at the Atlantic County Republican Convention in Galloway Township.

And whoever wins the primary, weve got to come together and support them. (Republican candidate) Jack Ciattarelli cannot be our nominee, and, sure as hell, Bill Spadea cannot be our governor.

Sweeney served in the state Senate from 2002 to 2022 and was the Senate president from 2010 to 2022  the longest tenure in New Jersey history  before losing his reelection bid to Republican Edward Durr, who was then voted out in the next subsequent election. Durr is now running for governor.

As the second-most powerful elected official in New Jersey, Sweeney, a former ironworker, put his stamp on most major legislative accomplishments during his 12 years as the Senates leader.

On Sunday, he touted legislative accomplishments including the establishment of a higher minimum wage, marriage equality and paid family leave. He also spoke about his role in helping get Stockton University into Atlantic City, funding for the resorts Boardwalk repairs and the expansion of the Atlantic County Institute of Technology in Mays Landing.

He said theres more to be done, like making it easier to buy a home, raise a family and retire in New Jersey. He said the state needs a tax system that works better for families and retirees rather than big corporations.

Sweeney said hes always felt if Atlantic County is going to reach its full potential, it starts with Atlantic City.

That means as governor Ill have more police in this town, well spend the money in the community. (If not), we will continue to lose jobs, which will hurt the economy down here, he said. People keep saying Atlantic City had its day, its over. Atlantic City was the golden goose, it laid the golden eggs. When the golden goose got sick, you dont say youre gonna put it on the menu, you help it get better.

The gubernatorial race was the only one contested during Sundays convention. The other endorsements got approved via motion.

Meet 10 of the candidates looking to be the next New Jersey governor Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, is term-limited from running for reelection next year, leaving the race to replace him wide open. And the competition is already heating up, as six Democrats and four Republicans have already thrown their hats in the ring for the job.

The six candidates backed for state Assembly were Maureen Rowan and Joanne Famularo in the 2nd District, Dan Hutchinson and Cody Miller in the 4th District, and Andrea Katz and Anthony Angelozzi in the 8th District.

Sherry Parmenter received support for county surrogate, Victoria Dolceamore for county commissioner at-large, the Rev. Collins Days for county District 1 and Jonathan Marcellus for county District 4.

No longer can we rely on the party line to make sure we win this with the Assembly race, Suleiman said. Now that you have an open primary with the Assembly, weve got to make sure that Joanne and Maureen are in the top position because, if Fulop is true on his threat hes gonna put $10 million against local down-ballot candidates (who back his agenda), were gonna have to be organized. We cant rely on the county line anymore.

Suleiman said the message for Sundays convention was staying united and organized.

I always say yelling at MSNBC doesnt do anything. Protesting in front of (Rep. Jeff) Van Drews office, respectfully, doesnt do anything, Suleiman said. Being organized is the most important thing we can do right now. Its not sexy, its not as fun, but its the most important.
China has seen a significant increase in the populations of its flagship species over the past few decades, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration said Monday.

The number of wild giant pandas has risen from around 1,100 in the 1980s to nearly 1,900 today, while the snow leopard population has rebounded to over 1,200. The population of wild Asian elephants has grown from over 150 to more than 300.

Additionally, the number of Tibetan antelopes has increased from around 60,000-70,000 in the late 1990s to over 300,000 today.

In the realm of wild plants, more than 200 endangered species have been successfully reintroduced, and many species have experienced significant recovery and protection.

The steady increase in wild populations is mainly due to China's comprehensive conservation efforts in recent years. According to the administration, these efforts include continuously refining policies and legal frameworks and increasing financial investment.

The administration said that moving forward, China will continue to strengthen the conservation of wildlife and plants and promote modernization that ensures the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.

Monday marks the United Nations World Wildlife Day in 2025.
Van Drew needs to listen

U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew called the protesters who showed up at his Northfield office on Feb. 21 the radical left. I am a 70-year-old grandmother worried about my Social Security and Medicare. I am his constituent, not from out of state; not radical left and not unhinged and vicious as the congressman claims.

Van Drew represents three of the poorest counties in the state, yet he consistently votes against our best interest, and recently voted on a budget resolution that would cut Medicare and Medicaid, the very programs that his constituents depend on. I have repeatedly requested that he hold a town hall, but my requests are ignored. I guess the congressman is too busy appearing on Fox News to listen to his constituents concerns  or maybe he is just too afraid to hear what we have to say.

All of those protesters were at his office for one reason only: We want our congressman to protect his constituents, not bend the knee to Musk and Trump. He has betrayed his constituents time and time again, and now he is depicting us as crazy, vicious picketers. No, congressman, we are the residents of Congressional District 2. We pay your salary, and we expect you to represent all of us and listen to our concerns, not denigrate and belittle us.

Maureen Leidy

Egg Harbor Township

Letter writer contests location of proposed Egg Harbor Township wind substation Michael Hillman, of Stafford Township, asks Egg Harbor Township planners to examine Atlantic Shores' proposal for an offshore wind power substation closely.

Federal worker cuts reckless

A federal worker I know received this email last month: What did you do last week? Please reply to this email with approx. 5 bullets of what you accomplished last week and cc your manager. Please do not send any classified information, links, attachments. Deadline is this Monday at 11:59 pmEST. It sounds like if answers were not sent by midnight Feb. 24, negative consequences would happen.

Musk ordered this email to be sent to federal workers after Trump praised him for his DOGE work, but said he wished Musk would be more aggressive.

Is this email aggressive enough? Federal workers have protested, resigned and filed lawsuits against unelected Musk, who is essentially running our country. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, Anyone who thinks protests, lawsuits and lawfare will deter President Trump must have been sleeping under a rock for the past several years. (NY Times Feb. 22, 2025.)

If you wonder what authoritarianism marching into America, the land of the free, will mean, read or reread 1984. Federal workers wont be the last to receive the 5 things email. Whos next? Educators? Medical workers? Energy employees? The private sector? You?

Ann Pompelio

Brigantine

Cape May mayor writes in defense of beach tags Beach tags are not just a fee  theyre an investment in the safety, cleanliness and sustainability of our beaches, Cape May Mayor Zack Mullock writes.

Flu committee cuts dangerous

The danger of Robert Kennedy and Donald Trump are real. Among all the chaos of the past few weeks, a very important issue has been ignored. The Trump administration has been canceling the FDA Flu Advisory Committee meetings.

Why is this important? This FDA committee decides on the flu vaccine that will be most effective next fall. Their decision allows the manufacturing of the vaccine, which usually takes months. Delays in making this decision would mean serious delays in manufacturing and delivering the vital flu vaccine to those who need it.

If Kennedy and Trump do not want to get the flu vaccine, that is their decision. However, they are now putting up roadblocks for the rest of us to make our freewill decisions. Canceling these FDA meetings is equivalent to canceling the flu vaccine.

Trump must allow the FDA committee to meet and start the process of getting an effective flu vaccine to the American people.

Michael J. Makara

Mays Landing

Letter writer seeks to preserve Ocean City's architectural history Two iconic Ocean City homes have hit the market. They embody the citys architectural charm, but they are at risk of demolition, Sne Avichal writes.

Act on animal welfare laws

Better animal welfare policies mean better lives for animals, communities and consumers. Unfortunately, loopholes and weak enforcement propagate cruelty in commercial breeding, factory farming and the horse slaughter pipeline. Without stronger oversight, inhumane practices will persist and harm animals and the people who care about them.

We need real accountability for commercial breeders, meaningful protections for farm animals, and an end to the unnecessary and cruel slaughter of American horses.

Stronger enforcement and smarter policies will protect animals and consumers alike.

I urge my lawmakers, Sen. Booker, Sen. Kim and Rep. Van Drew, to prioritize animal welfare policies this Congress, such as Goldies Act and the Save Americas Forgotten Equines (SAFE) Act, and to ensure harmful policies, such as the EATS Act, are not advanced. These policies will create a more responsible and humane system that reflects the values of the American public. Now is the time to take action.

Julie Senack

Linwood
The Iowa auditor's office is asking the courts to remove the Iowa attorney general's office as legal counsel in a Davenport records case over an impasse about how to argue the case.

At issue in the case is whether the auditor's office should have confidential access to records of closed sessions as it audits how Davenport executed settlement payments with three former staffers in 2023.

Davenport sued to squash a subpoena from the auditor's office for closed session records leading up to the settlements, arguing that they are protected by attorney-client privilege. The auditor's office pointed to state law, which it argued gives the auditor access to materials relevant to an audit, even if they're confidential, but not to share them with the public. The auditor's office says the conversations are critical to determine whether proper procedures were followed in paying close to $2 million to former staffers.

The district court agreed with the auditor's office, set an evidentiary hearing and hinted that it could order the city to produce the records for a judge's review.

But the city filed an interlocutory appeal with the Iowa Supreme Court, where the case is currently at.

Now, the auditor's office and the attorney general's office disagree about how to argue the case before the court  whether they should argue the auditor's office should have access to confidential records or whether to argue the timing of the city's appeal isn't right and should be remanded to lower courts for a decision.

Initially, the attorney general planned to file a brief approved by the auditor's office focused on the scope-of-authority argument, but changed course.

The auditor's office argues the attorney general is conflicted in its position as it defends other state agencies.

The attorney general's office argues that the change was strategic to avoid a potential precedent-setting ruling against the auditor's office.

In a filing before the Iowa Supreme Court, the state auditor's office requested the court remove the Attorney General's Office as counsel and strike any brief submitted by the attorney general that is not reflective of the auditor's position "due to a conflict of loyalties, and the attorney general's refusal to withdraw due to that conflict."

The auditor's office, in its filing, stated that it initially approved a brief by the attorney general's office in the case arguing that the auditor should have access to the confidential material in limited circumstances. But a day later, the attorney general's office said it would not be filing the approved brief and planned to file a new one.

The auditor's office states the new brief was substantially different.

"Among other revisions, (the attorney general's office) specifically removed the argument made by the District Court regarding the Auditor's ability to access confidential information," the auditor's office's court filing states.

In an email exchange attached to the brief, John McCormally, the auditor's chief of staff, said the reasoning behind including the argument is because the district court cited that access in ruling favorably for the auditor and it's what the auditor's office, which is the attorney general's office's client in the case, wants and thinks would be the best argument to be able to access the records and allow the auditor's office to do its job.

"What we have in Davenport is a city attorney who was a walking audit risk," McCormally wrote in one email to the attorney general's office. "He authorized $1.8 million in payments to employees without any public council approval. ... From an audit perspective, the attorney-client discussion around these payments is critical to understanding the control environment around the issuance of the checks."

Leif Olson, with the attorney general's office, wrote in response that argument was high-risk and low-reward with the potential for the supreme court to rule against the auditor's office access to privileged communications and that the new argument would be more likely to get the auditor's office the records it needed.

"The Auditor is right to seek the communications between the Davenport City Attorney and the City Council if they're relevant to uncovering potential misfeasance. But the worst way to get them is to argue to the Supreme Court that it should assume those documents are 'absolutely privileged' and that the Auditor should get access to them anyway," Olson wrote.

The auditor's brief states that the attorney general's office cited its responsibility "for defending the state's prerogatives and interests" for not proceeding with the confidential communication argument.

The two offices came to an impasse, and the state auditor's office requested the attorney general's office withdraw from the case and allow the auditor's office to represent itself.

The attorney general's office stated that it does not recognize a conflict in representing the auditor's office, and that it intended to file the brief that it believed best represented the auditor's interests.

"Iowa law makes clear that it is the job of the Attorney General's office to represent the state in court, not the Auditor's," Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said in an emailed statement. "We have checks and balances for a reason. As we have thoroughly discussed with the Auditor's team, our brief makes the most sound and strategic arguments to help the State win its case in court."
Volunteer fire departments across the country are approaching a crisis point as they try to meet modern challenges.

Small-town departments surrounding the Quad-Cities are no exception.

For nearly a decade, media coverage of experts and advocates from the National Volunteer Fire Council has cast grim portents on what will become of services that no one pays for but everyone has come to expect. Services face pressure from increasing regulations, expanding roles and a lack of updates in funding mechanisms.

In response, fire-protection districts like Colona are looking at referendums to support their departments' growing needs and warning that without new funding, they may need to cut back on services.

The work has grown complex

Volunteer firefighters make up over 65% of the United States firefighting force, Colona Fire Chief John Swan Sr. said, with 676,000 individuals risking life and limb unpaid to save people and property in their local communities.

But the number is declining. It has fallen by hundreds of thousands since the 1970s, even as call volume has tripled, according to the National Volunteer Fire Council.

Swan, a 37-year veteran of volunteer firefighting, remembers a time when career fire departments took only the cream of the crop, with big city departments having hundreds of applicants to sort through at any given time.

Recruits have since been asked to pass intensive health screenings and undergo long, complex training regimes both upon initiation and on an ongoing basis in maintenance of certifications in life-saving skill sets.

OSHA requirements designed to protect the health of first responders from fumes and structural hazards borne of changes in construction technique have packed hours onto already strained schedules for volunteers who are often juggling work and families.

The job hasnt changed in quantity alone. Its also taken on new dimensions as the publics expectations of emergency responders have changed.

First responders equipped to deal with mental health crises are in unrelenting demand; situations involving drug use benefit immensely from first responders with de-escalation skills plus life-saving naloxone and lift requests from elderly callers who have fallen and cant get up.

The public and federal regulators alike have begun to treat volunteer and career municipal departments as if they are one and the same, Swan said.

When I started 37 years ago, we volunteers were running 60 to 80 calls a year, Swan said. No problem. We didnt need the training we do today. Now were running almost 1,000 calls a year. Today, were no different than a career department down in Moline. Our firefighters are trained the same.  When the call goes into dispatch, if its not law enforcement related, it goes right to the fire service.

Doing more with less

With the increase in demand, Swan said Illinois fire departments have seen little increase in funding or applicants.

Swan said even well-funded municipal fire departments, which draw their funding from city budgets, typically pick from about a dozen interested candidates, sometimes lowering their standards to admit even that many to the process.

The average volunteer fire department, whose only mode of compensation is typically a meager fuel stipend, has completely fallen by the wayside.

We don't turn people down. Most of the time, they turn us down," Swan said. "You just don't hand somebody a coat and say, Jump on a truck. I mean, there's a lot of training that goes in before that happens. When you start telling them the roles and responsibilities of being a firefighter and they find out how many calls we have and how much time it takes, they don't even take the application."

The vast majority of volunteers are 40 or above, nationwide, serving older populations than ever before.

Swan says many members of the public dont understand why volunteer fire departments cant go on with the status quo.

Swan and Colona Fire Protection District Trustee Victor Dzekunskas are the only full-time members of the Colona Fire Department, by virtue of their retirement. They are 73 and 79 years old, respectively.

Many other fire-protection district chiefs in the area work full-time, along with leading their departments, Swan said.

Colona has 17 non-retiree volunteers. However, they are not always available for weekday emergencies. The majority of the Colona Fire Department will only ever be able to respond to weekend or nighttime calls.

The simple reason is that to miss daytime work is to go unpaid. A structure fire can take five to six hours to fully extinguish if not controlled well in the first few minutes, Swan said. In exchange, the Colona Fire Department can offer only about $7 in stipend money to cover fuel expenses.

The third volunteer present for Swans interview during the work day last week was only at the station because hed taken paid time off that Thursday to pick up dishwasher parts.

Usually youd just find me and this guy here, Swan gestured at Dzekunskas.

A structure fire typically requires eight people, minimum, to ensure reignition wont occur and perform rescue operations.

A small community is lucky to have two or three volunteers free during the day.

Mutual-aid agreements between volunteer fire departments are common, but a response from one town over is not only likely to run into similar personnel issues, it also takes longer for firefighters to get there, sometimes stretching long enough for the whole building to burn down.

A lot of these firefighters are in their 60s, Swan said. They have no business going into a burning house  let alone trying to do so in stressful situations. But they do. We do. Communities need to understand; we dont have a lot of young people available. Not just Colona. Were talking nationwide.

Swan and Dzekunskas dont usually enter burning buildings, instead managing other parts of a fire response. They pull hoses and run machinery.

(Dzekunskas) can still put an Air-Pak on, Swan said. I can too. But do we have any business doing it? No. We should not have to do it. But we will.

Doing more with less: EMS and finances

The largest increase in the responsibilities of a volunteer firefighter has taken place with the end of local ambulance services.

In Illinois, fire-protection districts levy property taxes for volunteer fire departments, but only with several strict conditions imposed by the state.

Departments can levy a maximum of 30 cents per $100 of equalized assessed property value to support firefighting services, 30 cents per $100 of EAV to support ambulance services and 10 cents per $100 of EAV to support rescue services.

The premise of volunteer firefighters doing EMS care regularly only emerged when it became too difficult for the ambulance tax to support local operations in small towns like Colona because of the shortage of volunteers, plus the fact that highly skilled unpaid workers often end up leaving to join career departments nearby.

Without volunteers, fire and EMS services are very difficult for small towns to maintain.

Fire burns the same in a small town as it does in a larger municipality  a single-family home burns the same way no matter where you are, Swan said.

It takes the same resources to fight it too.

The need for good response times dictates that each region must have its own service. Each minute of response time can make fire and emergency medical issues exponentially worse.

At least a fire engine and four firefighters are needed to have a reasonable chance of fighting a fire, no matter where it is. Similarly, no matter a community's total taxable property value, medical emergencies still demand a professional EMS team and fully supplied ambulance.

The cumulative EAV of the Colona Fire Protection District is $108,466,497, yielding $325,399 for ambulance or fire services, assuming residents are taxed at the maximum rate of 30 cents.

But, according to the National Volunteer Fire Council's website, the same 30-cent rate would yield just $66,672 when applied to the $22,224,296 EAV of the nearby Galva Fire Protection District.

Nearby municipalities who do not rely on fire-protection districts, such as Moline, have no maximum on what they can levy for their fire departments and have much higher EAVs in denser areas. They're also free to supplement personnel wages and benefits with various taxes on local commerce. Yet, fire and police departments still constitute a large proportion of most municipality budgets.

Colona has never had a dedicated government ambulance service. The community contracts with MercyOne Genesis Silvis Medical Center, which sends ambulances to the neighboring city as needed.

Contracting with distant ambulance services can lead to longer response times and can strain levies that were never meant to pay wages  just ambulance equipment for volunteers to operate.

The result is firefighters doing CPR and other lifesaving treatments while the ambulance arrives. A local response within one or two minutes can prevent a flatline and greatly improve a patient's odds. Swan said chances of a flatline greatly increased after four to six minutes without any lifesaving measures.

This is the service the 10 cent rescue tax is designed to pay for. However, Colona residents have voted down two referendums on the tax, as have residents in districts across the country.

Although they may not know it, every Colona resident relies on a less-than-seven-minute response time from the district's volunteers, Swan said. During the day, that mean responses chiefly from Swan and Dzekunskas.

The two retirees are ill-equipped to handle fires and EMS calls, especially if there are multiple calls at once.

In the event of multiple calls at once, many districts dont have more than one ambulance contracted, further protracting response times, Swan said.

Another problem comes with the second component of an aging America: residents.

In the last couple of years our calls went up 20% just on the EMS side, Swan said. Now, 80% of most (departments) calls are EMS. (800 a year and going up.) Were getting lift assists, non-emergency mental health calls  all sorts of calls. That used to be just fire 20 or 30 years ago. Now people pick up the phone for every type of emergency situation, anything they want  they call the fire service. And we're proud to do that if we can. But we are getting burnt out.

The entire Colona operation, EMS and fire, is funded only by a 30 cent fire tax.

A referendum to add the 10 cent tax will be on Colona Fire Protection District ballots for April 1 municipal elections. Swan believes it will be sufficient to hire two paid day-shift staff.

If it fails, EMS is a service Swan is not sure the district will be able to offer much longer.

The only other thing we can do at this point is just dont go on EMS rescue calls, Swan said. Just dont. But then the public goes Oh, my god. I called 911 and the fire department didnt come. We dont have to go to those. Weve taken on this burden to the point that its breaking our back.
Montanas Democratic leaders and keynote speaker Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz grappled Saturday night at the annual Mansfield Metcalf event in Helena with what changes the party needs to make after losing every statewide election and all four seats in Washington, D.C., to Republicans.

In several hours of speeches to a sold-out crowd at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds, the states now-minority party said it was still defined by being a pro-labor party focused on the working and middle classes that supports womens rights, Native sovereignty, public education and lands, and affordability.

But the states top Democrats  House Minority Leader Katie Sullivan of Missoula, Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers of Belgrade and former Gov. Steve Bullock  and Walz didnt dodge the fact the only gains the party made in Montana in November were picking up 12 legislative seats following redistricting, while it again failed to win back any statewide offices and saw three-term incumbent U.S. Sen. Jon Tester ousted by Republican political newcomer Tim Sheehy.

Waking up on the Wednesday morning after the election was jarring. Some of you may have felt total shock. Some of you may have seen this coming, Sullivan said. But either way, I think it is the wake-up call to many of us Dems that our position in Montana has changed and we need to pay attention.

She said Democrats need to wrangle with the question of why Montanans are aligning with certain Democratic values, like protecting abortion access and public lands, but rejecting the party in favor of Republicans. Sullivan offered that national politics have taken over what used to be a locally driven conversation, and that now was the time to chart a new path.

She had asked her caucus, who were working at the Legislature most of the day beforehand, what to tell the crowd of hundreds at such a juncture.

The people that stood in this room told me Republicans act. Democrats are reacting. Sometimes we just seem to be a step behind. We dont always want to take a risk, but it seems like our opponents always are. Our opponents sometimes go for the throat, and sometimes we step back, Sullivan said.

But we need to be brave; and if youre explaining, youre losing  and it seems we have explained an awful lot.

Sullivan said Democrats needed to stop being a circular firing squad and point their anger and action toward Republicans. She discussed a recent meeting with Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte and others with the federal delegation when they visited the Capitol last month in which they effusively praised Donald Trumps administration and were silent about the thousands of federal jobs being axed by the administration and Elon Musk.

It was with great humbleness I came to realize that we, the House and Senate Democrats, are the last people standing between the good people of Montana and the bad things these guys will do, Sullivan said.

Flowers talked about what he called his leap of faith in joining up with nine moderate Republicans on the first day of the legislative session to scuttle the GOP leaderships rules package and form a sort of coalition to fight some of the more right-wing measures moving through the body.

He mentioned the passage of Medicaid expansion renewal, the blocking of several bills attacking the judicial branch and the quick failure of a right-to-work bill as proof the move has already paid off.

It is constant care and feeding. Its hard work, but its very satisfying when, instead of last year, every day on every bill seeing 34-16, slumping lower and lower in our seats  this year, were seeing 27-23, were a winner, he said.

Sullivan said Democrats needed to get to work recruiting and staffing up while trying to meet Montanans at their level to break through and win in more Republican-leaning parts of the state.

We will build up power. We will teach the voters what Montana Dems stand for. We earn their trust, we build our brand, and we will pick up seats. And its going to be hard, and it will take time, and we will fight, she said. But remember when youre angry at yourself, when you find yourself angry, point the anger where it belongs  at the (expletive) in charge.

Walz was introduced by Bullock and joined by his wife, Gwen, and daughter Hope, a Montana State University graduate who works for HRDC, which serves homeless people and others in communities in southwest Montana.

He, too, reflected on Democrats widespread losses in November, including his own as Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harriss running mate, and what the Trump administration has brought to the table over the past month and a half.

Walz ruminated on a conversation he had when he was in Amsterdam recently with Dutch officials following Vice President J.D. Vances speech at the Munich Security Conference in which Vance attacked Americas longtime European allies. Walz said he told them had he gotten done what needed to be done he would have been the one giving that speech instead and we wouldnt be in this (expletive) show.

He highlighted that the American labor movement basically originated in Butte and that the Womens Protective Union in Montana was among the first womens rights movements, emphasizing that Montana had long led in those liberal movements.

But, he said, winning hearts and minds hasnt worked in the face of the Republican partys focus on gaining power. He said Democrats shouldnt stoop but need to figure out how to get some of that power back while talking to voters.

That message is the policies matter, but people vote on values and how they feel, he said.

He walked the crowd through what he did as governor with a single-seat majority in the Minnesota Legislature, saying they were elected to burn political capital and pass everything possible, and had done so. He doesnt want to see a resistance movement like during Trumps first term, he said, but rather a fight from Democrats to go win.

Every generation of Americans has been asked, What are you willing to sacrifice for the decency of this country? We get to live in this interesting moment, Walz said.  Im proud to walk alongside you; Im proud of the work youre doing here, and we will be back in charge. And we will make a difference.
 Flash

Quick results from thawing Russia-U.S. relations shouldn't be expected, but the two countries are seeking to outline their priorities for cooperation, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"It seems to me that even now we need to outline the range of possible topics for cooperation, but we should not expect any quick results in this area right now," Peskov said during a recent interview with local media.

There will be much to do to repair the badly-damaged Russia-U.S. relations, Peskov said.

Meanwhile, he stressed that normalizing Russia-U.S. relations could be achieved more quickly if both Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump have the political will to do it.

The U.S. administration is reshaping its foreign policy contents, which are largely consistent with Russia, he added.
Hours after Gov. Glenn Youngkin commuted the three-year sentence of a former Fairfax County police sergeant convicted of recklessly discharging a firearm in the shooting death of an unarmed shoplifting suspect, the victims mother called the case an example of systemic racism.

In a news conference in Northern Virginia on Monday afternoon, Fairfax County Commonwealths Attorney Steve Descano and Melissa Johnson, the mother of shooting victim Timothy McCree Johnson, accused Youngkin of a rush to judgment.

Melissa Johnson also asserted that race was a factor in the case of a white police officer fatally shooting a Black man, then serving three days behind bars.

What is devastating in all of this is that weve been here before, Melissa Johnson said, failing to acknowledge systemic maladies that are in place, left by slavery and Jim Crow.

She added: This is an inequitable judicial system for Black and brown people all over the United States. And had this been a different nationality, a different ethnicity, we would not be having this same conversation, and we would not be in this same situation. And so, it was devastating.

On Monday evening, Youngkin spokesman Christian Martinez, asked for a response, did not address Melissa Johnsons comments, but said: The fact that the Commonwealths Attorney could not justify the basis for such a harsh sentence further affirms the Governors decision and statement.

Last October, a Fairfax jury acquitted former Sgt. Wesley Shifflett of involuntary manslaughter in the Feb. 22, 2023, shooting death of Timothy Johnson following a foot chase outside Tysons Corner Center. But the jury convicted Shifflett of recklessly discharging his firearm.

A Fairfax County judge on Friday sentenced Shifflett to five years in prison on the firearms charge, with two years suspended and three to serve, plus five years of probation.

Youngkin on Sunday night announced he had commuted Shiffletts sentence.

I am convinced that the courts sentence of incarceration is unjust and violates the cornerstone of our justice system  that similarly situated individuals receive proportionate sentences, Youngkin said in a statement.

He added: I want to emphasize that a jury acquitted Sgt. Shifflett of the more serious charge of involuntary manslaughter, a conviction for which the sentencing guidelines recommend no jail time or up to six months incarceration.

Descano, the Fairfax prosecutor, said in a statement: Im outraged at Youngkins decision tonight. Glenn Youngkin has spent the last four years honing his Trump impersonation and now hes following in his footsteps by commuting sentences just to score political points.

The Associated Press reported that Timothy Johnson allegedly stole sunglasses from a store in the mall. Shifflett testified that he shot Johnson after he saw him reaching into his waistband after falling down in a wooded area during the chase.

Fairfax Police Chief Kevin Davis announced in March 2023 that Shifflett had been fired from the department for violating its rules on use of force. A first grand jury chose not to indict Shifflett in the case. Descano then convened a special grand jury that indicted Shifflett in October 2023 on the charges of involuntary manslaughter and recklessly discharging the weapon.

On Monday evening, members of the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus called the governors action reckless and a gross misuse of power that threatens public safety.

We will not allow him to use the chaos his friends are causing in Washington as cover to evade consequences as he places a recently convicted, violent criminal back in our communities.

Del. Marcus Simon, D-Fairfax, chairman of the House Public Safety Committee and vice chairman of House Courts of Justice Committee, said Monday that the governor rushed the decision after the sentencing without contacting Timothy Johnsons family. Melissa Johnson confirmed at Mondays news conference that she got no advance notice.

It seems pretty politically motivated, Simon said.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, dismissed the governors action as performative, Trumpesque police-signaling.

Surovell, who chairs the Senate Courts of Justice Committee, said Youngkin is looking for political cover before his expected veto of legislation that would remove the current prohibition of collective bargaining by public employees, including police.

The Fraternal Order of Police and the Virginia Police Beneficial Association support the legislation, which Surovell and Del. Kathy Tran, D-Fairfax, introduced and the General Assembly passed this year. If Youngkin signs the legislation, it would take effect on July 1, 2027.

The majority leader, who is a lawyer in Fairfax, defended how Fairfax County Circuit Court Judge Randy Bellows handled the case. In a 25-page opinion in mid-January, Bellows provided a detailed analysis of the evidence and his reasons for denying Shiffletts motions to overturn the guilty verdict.

The governor thinks he knows more than a lifelong federal spy prosecutor who has served on our bench for two decades, Surovell said.

Bellows has held his seat on the 19th Judicial Circuit since 2002. Previously, he was an assistant U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia and prosecuted fraud and national security-related cases. He is a member of the adjunct faculty in the George Mason University Department of Criminology, Law and Society.

Youngkin has emphasized backing the blue throughout his term as governor.

In January, he criticized President Joe Biden for granting clemency to Ferrone Claiborne and Terence Richardson, who were acquitted in federal court in the 1998 slaying of Waverly police officer Allen W. Gibson Jr., but were serving life sentences.

Youngkin said at the time: I am beyond outraged and in utter disbelief that President Biden would announce clemency for Ferrone Claiborne and Terence Richardson.

Youngkin said Claiborne and Richardson had admitted to being responsible for the killing in Sussex County Circuit Court.

In 1999, Richardson and Claiborne pleaded guilty to lesser charges in state court  Richardson to involuntary manslaughter, and Claiborne to being an accessory after the fact, to avoid the risk of a death sentence if a jury tried them on capital murder charges.

In 2001, a federal jury convicted Richardson and Claiborne of drug crimes, but acquitted them of Gibsons murder.

The federal judge factored in Richardson and Claibornes 1999 guilty pleas in Sussex County Circuit Court when fashioning their sentences on the federal drug convictions. As a result, they were serving life in prison.
Cancun police jail American for aggressiveness

Cancun, Q.R.  An American man was jailed over the weekend for aggressiveness against police. The incident happened Sunday near SM 23 of central Cancun when patrolling officers drove passed the man and he became increasingly aggressive.

The 34 year old was taken into legal custody from Tulum Avenue on charges of disobedience and resistance from individuals.

In a statement authorities said the Municipal Secretariat of Citizen Security and Transit (SMSCyT) arrested a male for alleged disobedience and resistance from individuals on Tulum Avenue, near Supermanzana 23.

The detainee uttered foul language against the municipal police officers when they were conducting a surveillance tour. When they intervened, the individual became aggressive and resisted, so he was arrested.

Eduardo N, 34 years old, originally from the United States, was placed at the disposal of the competent authorities for the corresponding legal proceedings, the Secretaria Municipal de Seguridad Ciudadana y Transito (SMSCyT) reported.
Chetumal man who hit dog and dumped it alive on side of road arrested for animal abuse

Chetumal, Q.R.  Personnel from the State Attorney Generals Office served an arrest warrant on a local man for animal abuse. On Sunday, authorities reported on the arrest of Antonio N for his alleged involvement in events that probably constitute crime of animal abuse of a canine.

The man was arrested after hitting a dog in the head with a bat then dumping it on the side of a public road. The incident was reported to police by area citizens. A Chetumal veterinarian evaluated the dog after it was found to still be alive, however, it suffered irreversible damage and was put down.

In a statement, police said the events for which a judge issued an arrest warrant against the accused occurred on February 25 of this year, when this person intentionally and unjustifiably committed acts of cruelty against a white, male, mixed breed dog, approximately two years old, who lived at his home.

Antonio N allegedly hit the dog with a blunt object, causing head trauma and loss of function and then left it on the street with serious injuries and neurological damage. A veterinarian determined that it was best to perform clinical death in order to avoid further suffering.

The arrest warrant for Antonio N, which was duly executed when he was walking along Emiliano Zapata Street corner with Bahia Boulevard of Chetumal, they reported Sunday.
JMM mayor reaches ejido ownership agreement over Expomar land

Jose Maria Morelos, Q.R.  Mayor Erik Borges Yam reached an agreement Sunday with ejidatarios regarding Expomar land. The two sides have been in disagreement about who owns the land where the military began to build a new barracks late last year.

On Sunday, Borges Yam said that during a meeting with the group of Jose Maria Morelos ejidos, it was verified that the land being built on does belong to the government and not the ejidos.

Borge Yam said he went to the ejido building to meet with the committee in the presence of some members of the ejido to prove, in accordance with the law, that the Expomor lands truly belongs to the people.

In a statement, Borges Yam said the ejidal commissioner of Kilometro 50, Juan Bautista Moen Uluac, officially recognized that the Expomor premises, located at the exit to Chetumal, legally belongs to the city council and supported the resolution of this conflict.

Ejidatario Pedro Dzib Puc took the floor and thanked Mayor Erik Borges for the open and transparent discussion. I thank the mayor with all my heart. I am a social fighter and I recognize that this is a matter resolved thanks to the good will of the mayor, he said.

Borges Yam reaffirmed his willingness to continue collaborating jointly with all ejidatarios, remembering that the doors of the administration will always be open to receive their concerns and proposals.

I remind you that we will continue working together through the various projects, always with the friendly hand of the state governor, Ms. Mara Lezama Espinosa.

The land in dispute was in litigation over ownership after the military began to build on it last year. The six-hectares, which the ejidos claimed was theirs, actually belongs to the government.

Last year, the government started to build a new military barracks meant to house 200 personnel. In December, ownership paperwork was presented by rejected by the ejidos who protested by blocking the construction of a new municipal beach road in Felipe Carrillo Puerto.
Explainer: How did Trump, Zelensky engage in shouting match at White House?

Xinhua) 08:53, March 03, 2025

WASHINGTON, March 1 (Xinhua) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky traveled to Washington on Friday, where he and U.S. President Donald Trump were scheduled to sign a minerals deal. However, the trip took a dramatic turn as the two sides were embroiled in a rare shouting match at the White House, ultimately leaving the minerals deal unsigned.

Stunned by the fiery exchange between Zelensky and the duo of Trump and U.S. Vice President JD Vance, some Western media described the Oval Office event as "remarkable," "confrontational," and even a "blowup," as this round of U.S.-led efforts to negotiate an end to the Ukraine-Russia conflict was left in tatters.

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE OVAL OFFICE?

What was supposed to be a routine presence in front of a press pool erupted into an unexpected shouting match, sparked by an interjection from Vance. Present in the room, he demanded that the Ukrainian leader show gratitude for Trump's efforts to help end Ukraine's three-year-old conflict with Russia.

"Mr. President, with respect, I think it's disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media," Vance told Zelensky. "You should be thanking the president for trying to bring an end to this conflict."

Zelensky tried to push back, saying the United States will "in the future" feel the problem brought to it by the Ukraine-Russia conflict, prompting Trump to raise his voice and say Zelensky was "in no position to dictate what we are going to feel" given that he "allowed" himself "to be in a very bad position."

The tension escalated as the three of them -- Trump and Vance versus Zelensky -- repeatedly interrupted each other, racing to speak over one another.

"You don't have cards right now. With us you start having cards," Trump said as Zelensky, whose voice was barely audible in the face of a shouting Trump, was heard saying he was not playing cards.

"You're playing cards. You're gambling with the lives of millions of people. You're gambling with World War III. You're gambling with World War III. And what you're doing is very disrespectful to the country, this country," Trump piled on and continued.

WHAT HAPPENED AFTER THAT?

After the fiery public confrontation, Zelensky was eventually told to leave the White House early before he and Trump could even take the stage for a scheduled news conference.

Zelensky afterward wrote on social media platform X: "Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS (President Trump), Congress, and the American people. Ukraine needs just and lasting peace, and we are working exactly for that."

And the minerals deal, which had been trailed and praised by both sides this week, was left unsigned.

Following the shouting match, Trump said that he wants an "immediate" ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine and that he believes his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, is ready for a peace deal.

Trump warned Zelensky to make peace or lose American support.

"I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don't want advantage. I want PEACE. He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace," he posted on social media platform Truth Social.

Trump ruled out any chance of immediate in-person talks with Zelensky.

Describing the event as a "fiasco," U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Zelensky should apologize.

However, in an interview with Fox News on Friday night, Zelensky repeatedly said he would not apologize to Trump.

"I think that we have to be very open and very honest, and I'm not sure that we did something bad," he said.

But he noted that this kind of spat "is not good for both sides."

The clash between Zelensky and Trump will speed up Washington's efforts to investigate any waste, fraud and abuse involving U.S. aid to Ukraine, Reuters quoted a senior U.S. official as saying in its report.

HOW WORLD REACTED TO TRUMP-ZELENSKY EXCHANGE?

The toxic press event at the White House prompted an outpouring of support from European leaders for Zelensky and his country.

"Your dignity honors the bravery of the Ukrainian people. Be strong, be brave, be fearless. You are never alone," European Parliament President Roberta Metsola said on X, adding, "We will continue working with you for a just and lasting peace."

"Nobody wants peace more than the Ukrainians do. Therefore we are working on a common path to a lasting and just peace," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz posted on X. "Ukraine can rely on Germany -- and on Europe."

"We were all right to help Ukraine and sanction Russia three years ago, and to continue to do so," French President Emmanuel Macron said, calling for respect for those who have been fighting since the beginning.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: "Dear Ukrainian friends, you are not alone."

Other European leaders rallied to defend Ukraine in similar messages, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, among others.

Zelensky in response quoted these posts with "Thank you for your support."

Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban praised Trump on X, saying the U.S. president "stood bravely for peace. Even if it was difficult for many to digest."

As for Russia, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev said Trump had given Ukraine a "strong slap on the wrist," adding that Trump told the truth to the face of the Ukrainian president "for the first time."

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
 Flash

A Palestinian child walks in one of the displacement camps at the Al-Shujaiya neighborhood in Gaza City, on Feb. 25, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

The European Union (EU) called on Sunday for a rapid resumption of negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza.

"A permanent ceasefire would contribute to the release of all remaining Israeli hostages while ensuring the necessary conditions for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza to begin. All parties have a political responsibility to make this a reality," Anouar El Anouni, the spokesperson for EU foreign affairs and security policy, said in a statement.

The EU reiterates its calls for full, rapid, safe and unhindered access to humanitarian aid at scale for Palestinians in need and for allowing and facilitating humanitarian workers and international organizations to operate effectively and safely inside Gaza, the spokesperson said.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump said Monday that 25% taxes on imports from Mexico and Canada would start Tuesday, sparking renewed fears of a North American trade war that already showed signs of pushing up inflation and hindering growth.

Tomorrow  tariffs 25% on Canada and 25% on Mexico. And thatll start, Trump told reporters in the Roosevelt Room. Theyre going to have to have a tariff.

Trump has said the tariffs are to force the two U.S. neighbors to step up their fight against fentanyl trafficking and stop illegal immigration. But Trump has also indicated that he wants to even the trade imbalance with both countries as well and push more factories to relocate in the United States.

His comments quickly rattled the U.S. stock market, with the S&P 500 index down 2% in Monday afternoon trading. It's a sign of the political and economic risks that Trump feels compelled to take, given the possibility of higher inflation and the possible demise of a decades-long trade partnership with Mexico and Canada.

Yet the Trump administration remains confident that tariffs are the best choice to boost U.S. manufacturing and attract foreign investment. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Monday that the computer chipmaker TSMC had expanded its investment in the United States because of the possibility of separate 25% tariffs.

In February, Trump put a 10% tariff on imports from China. He reemphasized Monday that the rate would be doubling to 20% on Tuesday.

Trump provided a one-month delay in February as both Mexico and Canada promised concessions. But Trump said Monday that there was no room left for Mexico or for Canada to avoid the steep new tariffs, which were also set to tax Canadian energy products such as oil and electricity at a lower 10% rate.

If Trump is imposing tariffs, we are ready," said Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly. "We are ready with $155 billion worth of tariffs and were ready with the first tranche of tariffs, which is $30 billion.

Joly said Canada has a very strong border plan and explained that to Trump administration officials last week. She said the diplomatic efforts are continuing. She spoke after Trump made his comments Tuesday.

Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum went into Monday waiting to see what Trump would say.

Its a decision that depends on the United States government, on the United States president, Sheinbaum said ahead of Trump's statement. So whatever his decision is, we will make our decisions and there is a plan, there is unity in Mexico.

Both countries have tried to show action in response to Trump's concerns. Mexico sent 10,000 National Guard troops to their shared border to crack down on drug trafficking and illegal immigration. Canada named a fentanyl czar, even though smuggling of the drug from Canada into the United States appears to be relatively modest.

As late as Sunday, it remained unclear what choice Trump would make on tariff rates. Lutnick told Fox News Channels Sunday Morning Futures that the decision was fluid.

Hes sort of thinking about right now how exactly he wants to play it with Mexico and Canada, Lutnick said. And that is a fluid situation. There are going to be tariffs on Tuesday on Mexico and Canada. Exactly what they are, were going to leave that for the president and his team to negotiate.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Mexico has also offered to place 20% taxes on all imports from China as part of talks with the United States.

Bessent told CBS News on Sunday that China would eat the cost of the tariffs, instead of passing them along to the U.S. businesses and consumers that import their products in the form of higher prices.

But companies ranging from Ford to Walmart have warned about the negative impact that tariffs could create for their businesses. Similarly, multiple analyses by the Peterson Institute for International Economics and the Yale University Budget Lab suggest that an average family could face price increases of more than $1,000.

Its going to have a very disruptive effect on businesses, in terms of their supply chains as well as their ability to conduct their business operations effectively, said Eswar Prasad, an economist at Cornell University. There are going to be inflationary impacts that are going to be disruptive impacts.

Prasad cautioned that some of the cost increases from the tariffs would be offset by the U.S. dollar increasing in value. But a stronger dollar could also make American made goods less competitive in foreign markets, possibly making it harder for Trump to close the trade imbalance.

Trump also plans to roll out what he calls reciprocal tariffs on April that would match the rate charged by other countries, including any subsidies and and value added taxes charged by those countries.

The U.S. president has already announced the removal of exemptions from his 2018 tariffs on steel and aluminum, in addition to tariffs on autos, computer chips, copper and pharmaceutical drugs.

AP economics writer Christopher Rugaber contributed to this report.
Cuts to U.S. weather and climate research could put public safety at risk

Posted on 3 March 2025 by Guest Author

This is a re-post from Yale Climate Connections by Jeff Masters and Bob Henson

One month into the new Trump administration, firings of scientists and freezes to U.S. research funding have caused an unprecedented elimination of scientific expertise from the federal government. Proposed and ongoing cuts to agencies like the National Weather Service and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, could hobble efforts to keep Americans safe during and after disasters. Meanwhile, slashed funding for climate research risks blindfolding the U.S. as the dangers from climate change escalate in the coming years and decades, scientists warn.

Mass layoffs at FEMA

When Hurricanes Helene and Milton  both made more destructive by climate change  devastated the Southeast last fall, workers at the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, oversaw the governments effort to rescue survivors and aid the recovery. FEMA has been key, too, in bolstering the countrys long-term resilience efforts, such as elevating flood-prone homes and installing drainage works.

But mass layoffs of probationary employees  a civil service classification that typically encompasses new hires but can also include military veterans, longtime employees whove switched positions, or those who were hired on a fast track or work with a disability  and sudden departures within the deferred resignation program put in place by Elon Musks DOGE unit have led to a loss of about 1,000 of FEMAs 25,000 employees. The Washington Post reported that one of the agency staffers fired was a 15-year employee and a chief for the National Flood Insurance Program. According to the Washington Post, another wave of firings is expected, targeting employees who work in climate-related diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Such cuts could result in slower disaster responses, longer waits for payouts, and reduced implementation of resilience efforts, ultimately increasing the risk of damage from climate change-enhanced extreme weather. In addition, firings could hamper efforts to update the agencys significantly outdated flood maps, which are critical for determining flood risk and insurance rates.

Potential cuts at the National Weather Service

The National Weather Service is overseen by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. NOAA scientists and meteorologists are bracing for hundreds of firings, the Boston Globe reported.

Theres a lot of already critically understaffed local field offices, Bradley Colman, a former longtime NOAA meteorologist and the 2023 president of the American Meteorological Society, told the Boston Globe. Youre risking simply not having the bodies to fill the seat  that the right people wont be there at the right time and in the end that puts peoples property and lives at risk.

Project 2025 calls for the commercialization of the National Weather Service, or NWS, claiming that Studies have found that the forecasts and warnings provided by the private companies are more reliable than those provided by the NWS.

To support this claim, Project 2025 cites a 2020 AccuWeather press release. In reality, most private forecasting firms and broadcast meteorologists rely heavily on the weather modeling carried out by the National Weather Service, and the insights from NOAAs online forecast discussions and other products provide value to the entire weather enterprise as well as interested citizens.

Public opinion polls consistently rank the National Weather Service at or near the top for high approval ratings among federal agencies, including in this Economist/YouGov survey from February 2025. Although funding for climate change research has gone through major ups and downs in Congress, the National Weather Service has traditionally gotten strong bipartisan support, including from emergency managers across the political spectrum.

One recent study found that the National Weather Service provided a 73:1 return on investment.

The last major restructuring of the National Weather Service  a massive modernization effort that took place in the 1990s  reduced the number of National Weather Service offices from 256 to 122 and the number of staff from about 5,100 to about 4,700, a roughly 9% cut.

That restructuring involved a careful, yearslong planning process, and nearly all of the job cuts took place through attrition  retirements and other voluntary departures. Along the way, the National Weather Service dramatically increased the share of its staff made up of meteorologists from about one-third to about two-thirds.

In a 2012 retrospective report, the National Academies concluded: The $4.5 billion national investment in the Modernization and Associated Restructuring (MAR) was both needed and generally well spent. Overall, the MAR was successful in achieving major improvements for the weather enterprise.

As opposed to a careful, multiyear effort, the current process involves cuts to federal science agencies being made in a matter of days at the behest of non-subject-experts, with the potential for serious impacts. With severe weather and hurricane season both approaching, the National Weather Service is already short-staffed; as of late 2023, it was down about 5% from its funded staffing target.

Slashed research funding

The administration has also moved to block scientific research funding across government agencies. The National Institutes of Health  the worlds largest funder of scientific research  awarded $35 billion in grants in 2024. Although a recent executive order that devastated university funding by slashing indirect costs paid by NIH was temporarily halted by a judge, the Office of Management and Budget, or OMB, has figured out a technical workaround to continue to deny NIH research funds, as reported by Nature Thursday. Russ Vought, the new director of OMB, is one of the authors of Project 2025.

We want the bureaucrats to be traumatically affected, Vought said in 2023 . When they wake up in the morning, we want them to not want to go to work because they are increasingly viewed as the villains. We want their funding to be shut down so that the EPA cant do all of the rules against our energy industry because they have no bandwidth financially to do so.

Meanwhile, the National Science Foundation  which supports basic scientific research at thousands of U.S. institutions  has lost more than 10% of its staff and may face additional staff losses and cuts.

Large cuts at NIH and the National Science Foundation would devastate U.S. higher education, forcing thousands of layoffs and ending the education of thousands of graduate students.

In the long term, the elimination of resources for scientific research could leave U.S. residents more vulnerable to disasters. The National Science Board, in a report issued in 2006 in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, found it would be cost-effective to increase hurricane research funding by $300 million per year, compared to the $20 million in annual funding that existed at the time.

The administration is also moving to decimate the research that municipalities, states, and others rely on to prepare for the escalating consequences of climate change. New Health and Human Services chief Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has ordered the dismantling of NIHs Climate Change and Health Initiative, which, according to its website, aims to stimulate research to reduce health threats from climate change across the lifespan and build health resilience in individuals, communities, and nations around the world, especially among those at highest risk.? Its annual budget is $40 million.

Is it possible that crucial climate models or data could simply vanish? Most of the climate model code is held in distributed archives and thus probably not vulnerable to deletion. But budget cuts could eliminate the scientists needed to maintain the models.

In the words of NSF program director Raleigh Martin, Science is the goose that lays the golden eggs. Unfortunately, the science goose is being strangled and those golden eggs are being lost. Our society will be poorer, sicker, and weaker as a result.

Loss of climate webpages

Many government webpages that have the word climate in them have been removed in recent days, particularly at EPA, where on Jan. 27, all information about climate change was removed from its homepage and other prominent areas of its website, burying it deep in sections that are harder to find. A purge of climate webpages at NOAA has not yet occurred, and the climate.gov and Climate Prediction Center websites remain up. Weve been downloading key government publications that we use, such as the Billion-Dollar Climate Disasters page, NOAAs Global Warming and Hurricanes page, and the 2022 U.S. Sea Level Change report.

What you can do
Ask A.J. is Slates advice column on addiction, recovery, and how to hate yourself less. Submit a question here. Its anonymous!

Dear A.J.,

Im almost at five months sober now, and Ive found myself getting tired and less motivated with AA. I did 90 in 90 and was so keen on it, and then I just hit a wall. I find myself just kind of bored with it all. I got a sponsor and started step work but to be entirely honest with you, I got sick of him calling. I have found myself ghosting his calls the past two weeks!

I just cant be bothered to talk about my sobriety. Its not that Im isolating and feeling depressed or anything. Quite the opposite. Im feeling otherwise motivated with life, sociable with friends, starting a new course in horticulture, exercising and meditating twice a day. Im doing all the good stuff and feeling great about it.

Its not that Im saying Im fixed! I dont need AA! Its just more, Im feeling a bit of sobriety-chat burnout. I just want to be normal and happy and talk about normal shit, like what books Im reading, etc.

I guess my question is did you ever feel this sobriety burnout? Do you get tired of always talking about sobriety and how youre feeling ?

Bored but Not Drunk Yet

Related From Slate My Weight Loss Injections Are Having a Wonderful Side Effect. My Husband Wants Me to Quit Them. Read More

Dear Bored,

Sobriety burnout is real, especially since youre in the early days, but you have also gone to 90 meetings in 90 days (90 in 90), so Im not surprised youre feeling punchy. Recently, I learned a little about burnout that has been very helpful to me: Burnout is temporary and conquerable. It requires patience and fortitude, two virtues you now possess thanks to your sobriety, even with only five months. Unless you are physically broken and unable to go to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings anymore, youre probably just experiencing regular old boredom, similar to eating the same toast and eggs for breakfast every morning for 90 days straight and then craving anything thats not toast and eggs.

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I also want you to know that it should not be treated lightly, because this boredom can unlock some old behaviors. Only you can answer what comes nextwill you go ham and begin knocking back bottles and partying like a maniac right away? Lets come back to this.

I want you to know that I relate to your predicament. In my first year, I got bored of AA quickly, much in the same way you are now. It was too stodgy and repetitive. Theyre asking too much from me too soon. Andwhat? A Higher Power some choose to call God is what sounds like something I would choose to call a cult.

Spinning enough of a tale in my head, I formed a resentment against AA, which, since you are familiar with the programs traditions and steps, is not so great for long-term sobriety, if you are going the AA route. After a couple of months, I became antsy and ranty, resorting to trying to convince other people who were either in recovery (and some not) that with some tinkering, I could probably improve upon AA to make it not only more tolerable but more exciting.

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My pitch? Advanced Moderation. My program of recovery rewarded anyone who stayed sober for 30 days with both a chip and a 30-day furlough to go out and drink like a civilized human again. After that 30-day initiation proving that you can successfully handle wine with dinner and beer at ballgames, you come back and begin 60 days of abstinence. If you make it to 60 Days, then you go 90 days. After a year, you start at 30 days again. This all sounds well and good until you add up the math and realize that no part of this is anywhere close to sobriety.

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You asked if Im tired of talking about my sobriety. Early on I was, surelike you, I wanted to talk about normal-people things. I was feeling fixed and rejuvenated, and also not like I was a sick and scary person in need of constant monitoring. Now, though, I love talking about my sobrietylive for it, frankly, especially when Im talking with other people in sobriety. The reason is simple: I now have like-minded people in my life with whom I can reveal my true feelings, a power Id lost somewhere during the 20 years of drinking and using. Instead of the truth, Id have to concoct some lie or a cover-up. When someone asked me how I was doing, Id tell them I was fine, no matter if I was fine or extremely not fine.

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Now, I get to live and act in the specificity of truth, thanks to some of the camaraderie and friendships Ive found in both AA and Adult Children of Alcoholics.

For example, if you asked me how I was doing right this minute, Id tell you Im good, but feeling a little anxious and sad about flying to Philadelphia for my uncles funeral. Whereas before I got sober, or even in early sobriety, Id tell you I was fine and then bottle up the rest. When I shut down like that, I become more susceptible to acting out in destructive ways. I dont possess the urge to drink anymore, but I can still make a mess of my life if I start lying again, even with unremarkable lies such as I am feeling fine.

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After emailing with you, though, Im uplifted and genuinely having a better day and moment despite having to hop on a flight very soon. Thank you for that.

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I mentioned that boredom can unlock old behaviors. At this point, Im therapized and program-focused enough that I can tell when I need other people to talk to, even though all I want to do is isolate and go dark. One of the first telltale signs for me is that I no longer see facial expressions. If Im spiraling, the entire facial structure of whomever Im talking to melts away into a flat, sanded-down surface, and Im left guessing how they need me to respond or react to whatever were conversing about. Im a very unfit fiddle in those moments.

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For now, as you learn more about yourself and how to spot warning signs, heres how Id suggest you get through this bumpy, droopy, dull patch of sobriety: Change up your program. Find new AA meetings to attend with new people, new books and activities to push yourself through this momentnew people to talk to. Achieving long-term sobriety isnt easy, and you will be testedsometimes dailybut I promise youre killing it right now and doing fantastic, so hang in with us.

A.J.

Have a question for A.J.? Submit it here. Its anonymous!
Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily.

Nervous air travelers might be forgiven for feeling a little more anxious than usual since the start of the Trump administration. Only nine days in, a horrific midair collision between an American Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter ended a 16-year streak without a fatal U.S. airline crash. Then, two days later, a medevac jet nosedived into a busy Philadelphia street, killing all six aboard and one person on the ground. Then, a week later, a private jet slammed into a larger parked jet while landing in Arizona, killing the first planes pilot. And a week after that a Delta flight flipped upside down while landing in Toronto.

Was the Trump administration directly responsible for the surge in air disasters? The timing seems uncanny, but no. Whatever his flaws, Trump plainly does not deserve blame for this particular mess, which stems from a combination of bad luck and institutional failings that have been accumulating for years.

What is also plain, however, is that since it has come to power, the Trump administration has been aggressively pursuing policies that will make travelers odds inevitably worse. So is commercial aviation still remarkably safe? Yes. Is it about to get dramatically less safe? Also yes.

Here are some of the problems that already exist, and why theyll get worse.

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Failure to Regulate

A challenge in industrial safety is the tendency of powerful players to infiltrate and undermine their regulators. This dynamic has been playing out to dangerous effect in aviation, where Boeing has become such a dominant force that its been able to literally write its own rules. Starting in 2009, the Federal Aviation Administration launched a program under which it allowed Boeing to self-certify that its aircraft designs and production were safe.

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Its easy to see what that arrangement might have initially delighted Boeings C-suite, but it proved dangerous, both for Boeings customers and for the company itself. Two brand-new 737 Max airliners crashing in 2018 and 2019 annihilated public trust in Boeing, and the company has struggled to find its footing ever since.

Until now, at least, everyone agreed that regulations are important for aviation safety. The new administration doesnt see things that way. Trump started his current term with a promise to dramatically slash regulations, proclaiming that whenever an agency promulgates a new rule, regulation, or guidance, it must identify at least 10 existing rules, regulations, or guidance documents to be repealed. By wiping out government regulations across the entire industry, the administration is asking aircraft-makers and operators to follow their own rules. Historically, that hasnt worked out well.

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Understaffing

The problem of understaffing at the FAA is one that has troubled experts for years. In 2023, the New York Times revealed that near misses between airliners have become endemic at airports across the country, a sign of what many insiders describe as a safety net under mounting stress, with a leading cause being mistakes by air traffic controllers stretched thin by a nationwide staffing shortage.

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Understaffing is not a problem that worries the Trump administration, however. As part of its project to massively slash the size of the government, it laid off some 400 FAA workers starting on Feb. 17. At the time, it said that none of the firings involved air traffic controllers. But five days later Musk posted to X that any federal employee that didnt write an email explaining what theyd done during the previous week would be fired. If enforced, this diktat will likely ensnare some air traffic controllers from towers that can hardly afford to lose them.

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But theres a broader issue, which is that a great many FAA employeesnot just air traffic controllerspositively affect aviation safety. Some of the FAA employees fired earlier this month, for instance, were charged with updating the navigational charts that help keep pilots clear of danger. If the prime motive of the Trump-Musk alliance is to gut the federal workforce as thoroughly as possible, thats going to have all kind of deleterious effects, up to and including twisted smoldering wreckage.

Foreign Adversaries

Historically, the aviation industry has focused on preventing accidents by removing the risk of equipment malfunction and human error. Over the past decade, however, a whole new source of danger has emerged: foreign adversaries who attack civil aviation as part of a broad campaign of disruption against the democratic West. By far the worst actor in this space has been Russia and its proxies, which, since 2014, have shot down two airliners, pirated another, blown up a private jet, and waged internecine electronic warfare against airliners in northern Europe. Most ominously, last year Russian intelligence operatives began planting incendiary devices in air cargo shipments, a move that so alarmed the Biden administration that it warned the Kremlin that it was risking an all-out war.

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To say that Trump is unlikely to push back against this particular threat is an understatement. It was, after all, Russian intelligence that helped him come to power in the first place, and during the beginning of his second term, the United States has quickly swung from adversary to overt ally of the Kremlin. At the same time, Trump has dismissed members of an advisory committee at the Transportation Security Administration that helped protect airlines and airports against foreign attack. Should an attack take place now, it would be hard to distinguish between foreign aggression and self-harm.

For the time being, Americas air transportation system still provides one of the safest forms of travel available. But that safety has taken great expense and patience to achieve. This carefully tuned system is now being actively dismantled by people who dont understand how it works and dont value what it does. Like a house whose beams have rotted from within, once air travel starts to fail, it will fail dramatically.
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Flags of European Union (EU) and Ukraine are seen at the EU headquarters in Brussels, Belgium, Feb. 24, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

French President Emmanuel Macron proposed on Sunday that the European Union (EU) member states should raise their defense spending to 3 to 3.5 percent of the EU's total gross domestic product (GDP).

Speaking to the French daily Le Figaro after participating in a defense summit in London, Macron said EU member states should invest "heavily" in European defense to prepare for America's eventual disengagement and to ensure Europe's security.

The French president suggested raising considerable amounts together through joint loans or even the European Stability Mechanism. "We probably need initially 200 billion euros (208 billion U.S. dollars) to kick off," he added.

According to statistics published by the European Council, in 2024, the EU member states' total defense expenditure reached an estimated 326 billion euros (338 billion U.S. dollars), about 1.9 percent of the EU's gross domestic product (GDP).

Regarding Ukraine, Macon told Le Figaro that he didn't believe in the possible ceasefire signed by the Americans and Russians.

He, along with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, had proposed a one-month "truce" in Ukraine, he said.

Macron stressed again that the European troops would only be deployed to Ukraine after the peace should be established.
And the Oscar for Laziest Take goes to  everyone who compared this years most unexpected outcome to The Substance.

Yes, after one of the most topsy-turvy awards seasons in recent memory, we finally received some closure on Sunday night in a bunch of hotly contested categories, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress: It was an Anora sweep. Like its title character, Sean Bakers comedy about a sex worker squaring off against her new Russian husbands family/goons evidently proved too charming for academy voters to resist. And despite the momentum Anora had gained in recent weeks, the results still felt like an upset for the little independent movie that could.

Anoras biggest surprise triumph, though, was 25-year-old Mikey Madison collecting the Best Actress prize. Most pundits had predicted the Oscar would go to Demi Moore, 62, for her (quite literally) monstrous work in The Substance, the body-horror movie wherein she played a star taking a mysterious drug that spawns a younger version of herself called Sue (Margaret Qualley) with whom she soon battles. Moores chances ballooned after a moving Golden Globes acceptance speech in January in which she reflected on how touched she felt to finally be recognized by an industry that had frequently discounted her as a popcorn actress. In addition to locking down her Academy Award nomination, that speech also gave Moore a narrative as she campaigned for Oscars glory: She was the comeback queen, an aging star whose monumental career could no longer be ignored thanks, finally, to a meaty role worthy of her talents.

And yet, not all endings are Hollywood endings. As Madison collected the statue, she paid tribute to the thoughtful, intelligent, beautiful, breathtaking work of her fellow Best Actress nominees. The camera then cut to Moore, putting her hands to her chest, looking genuinely moved but also happy for Madison. It seemed as if peace could finally be restored to gay mens group chats across the world. But then came the takes 

And the Oscar goes to  Sue, declared Vulture. The New York Times reported that Moore had suffered a snub, leaving her fans bemoaning a defeat that underscored one of the central themes of the film: the challenges older actresses face in a Hollywood that is obsessed with young women. ESPNs Paolo Uggetti wrote in one tweet, viewed by millions and favorited by hundreds of thousands, that Moores loss was basically the plot of The Substance, while Jeopardy host Ken Jennings wrote in another viral post on Bluesky that the result should be a post-credits scene to Moores film. In the Washington Post, Ty Burr opined that Qualley should have accepted the statue while Moore sprayed the Dolby Theatre in a massive explosion of blood and viscera, just like in her movie.

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I cant believe I have to say this, but here goes: Mikey Madison did not win the Best Actress Oscar because she was a younger, hotter version of Demi Moore. Not only does the mere suggestion completely erase Madisons nuanced and moving work in Anora, but it also fundamentally misunderstands The Substanceand the Oscars themselves.

First, while its tempting to see the academy as still being overly obsessed with rewarding ingenues, thats just not the case anymore. Over the past decade, in a concerted effort to diversify what had been a voting body composed overwhelmingly of old white men, huge swaths of female, minority, and younger industry workers have been invited to become members. In 2021, women even outnumbered men in the academys board of governors for the first time, and they still do. And while the pace of change has been too slow (the New York Times reported last year that still only 34 percent of academy members were women), the average age of Best Actress winners has risen as diversity has increased. Before Sunday night, only two women who were under 35 (Emma Stone and Brie Larson) had won the Oscar in the past 10 years. Heck, Frances McDormand has won twice while in her 60s. And while the age gap between male and female winners used to be as big as 12 years, according to a Sky News analysis last year, the average age for both is now the same: 50. The fact that both Moore and 59-year-old Fernanda Torres of Im Still Here had been front-runners spoke volumes.

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And if ageism isnt what it used to be, misogyny still may bebut not in the way you might be inclined to think. Instead of playing a part in Moores loss, its rearing its head in the reaction to Madisons victory. To reduce her win to the grounds of youth and beauty is fundamentally sexist and belies the hard and complex work Madison did honing her craft and bringing her character to life. Anora, or Ani as she prefers to be called, was ferocious yet vulnerableat once, comic and tragicand Madison secured the trophy because of how well she carried this balance, in two languages and with a pitch-perfect Brooklyn accent. The scene in the car at the end where she finally breaks down with Igor (Yura Borisov) is what won her the Oscar, not any exotic dancing she performed. If Moore has lamented that she was extremely shamed for her work in Striptease, the way to correct for this isnt to shame another woman nearly three decades later.

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Related From Slate The Part of Anoras Oscars Triumph Thats Truly Revolutionary Read More

Moreover, to suggest that Moore somehow lost because of a beauty pageant also requires me to believe that she did not look like a total freaking smokeshow last night or all awards season. Im sorry, but I have eyes! Did you see the dress she was wearing last night?! The woman is a supermodel. As my colleague Rebecca Onion wrote in Slate, More damning than any Hollywood satire in The Substance is the fact that Moore is considered brave for playing 12 years younger than she actually is.

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Moore did phenomenal work with what she was given (which was basically that one devastating scene where she lost all self-confidence while preparing for a date). But the truth is that Madison just had much more to do in a much larger role. Unlike Moore, she also didnt spend most of her movie buried underneath prosthetics. It was, quite simply, a better performance and one that was ultimately powerful enough to best any campaign narrative Moore had going for her.

The Substance explored the constrictive prisons into which a male-dominated society forces women. It looked at how women are taught to hate themselves and fight one another. To weaponize its feminist message to undercut another woman feels ignorant at best and ignoble at worst. Its an insult to Madison, an insult to the academy members who voted for her (not all of whom look like Dennis Quaids prawn-mangling executive), and an insult to The Substance.

Read more in Slate about the Oscars.
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Adrien Brody really ought to have thanked Halle Berry when he accepted his Best Actor Oscar on Sunday night. For 22 years now, shes been publicly gracious about him forcing a kiss on her the last time he won an Oscar, and this year she went a step further by re-creating the kiss on the red carpet before the ceremony.

This all started at the 2003 Academy Awards, when it fell on Berry, as the previous years Best Actress winner, to present the Best Actor category. When Brody won, he got on stage and planted one on Berry. This was no blink-and-youll-miss-it peck; Brody held her close and even dipped her a little. The crowd roared. Berry did not appear to be visibly upset, and in fact looked like she was trying to play along with the moment, though she could be seen wiping her mouth off in the background later during Brodys speech.

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The reaction to this moment has been somewhat misremembered in subsequent years. It is not quite true, as USA Today has recounted, that the moment generated controversy at the time, with critics characterizing it as a violation of physical boundaries and a muddying of consent. The kiss has indeed become controversial in retrospect, but at the time, it was celebrated as the kind of fun, unexpected Hollywood moment that makes live TV and awards shows worth watching. (USA Today itself was in on it, calling Brody swooningly smooth in the aftermath.) In 2008, one writer reflected, Im still left wondering, even after all these years, why there wasnt more controversy or fall-out surrounding this moment, but her voice was very much in the minority. It took many years and an entire movement raising awareness about sexual misconduct in Hollywood for most people to reconsider the kiss, and by its 20th anniversary in 2023, it was indeed being described as cringe-worthy and a scandal.

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Brody addressed some of the criticism about the kiss earlier this year in a Variety interview, ultimately offering a pretty evasive statement: We live in a very conscious time, which is a wonderful thing. And nothing that I ever do or have done or wouldve done is ever done with the intention of making anyone feel bad. For her part, Berry has never outright criticized Brody over the kiss, but she has shared how taken aback she was. I was like, What the fuck is happening right now? That is what was going through my mind, she said on Bravos Watch What Happens Live in 2017. And because I was there the year before and I know the feeling of being out of your body, I just fucking went with it. But I was like, What the fuck is going on right now? 

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Its possible Berry feels completely unbothered about the original kiss; its also possible she knows theres not much to be gained from her objecting to how she was treated, or being anything but a good sport. Her never calling Brody out on it makes sense from that perspective, but her taking an active part in re-creating it goes above and beyond that. As a moment of public relations stagecraft, the red-carpet redux was so well done that one is tempted to wonder whether anyones reps had a hand in it; after all, it makes them both look good. With Brody on his way to another Best Actor trophy this year, the timing was perfect, but Berry approaching him on the red carpet came off as casual and unrehearsed. She turned to Brodys date, girlfriend Georgina Chapman, before leaning in, saying, Im sorry, Georgina, but I gotta do it. The two locked lips and swayed for a moment, though Berry doesnt hold Brody nearly so tight as he did her.

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A reunion 22 years in the making. #Oscars pic.twitter.com/MkaF2xb6SE  The Academy (@TheAcademy) March 2, 2025

In interviews, Berry called her kiss this year payback, and it is in the sense that at least she was in control of this one. But Brody benefits more, because Berry is effectively absolving him of any blame for kissing her without her consent all those years ago. If shes so cool with it that shell do the same to him, it cant have been that bad, right? Its understandable not to want to get bogged down in criticizing Brody too much for a forced kiss, when there are so many worse things men in Hollywood do, but is it too much to ask that we not celebrate him for it? At the same time, does this mean Im now criticizing Halle Berry for how shes reacting to this when she never asked to be part of it in the first place? Berry was in a difficult position, and she found a way to make the most of it.

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Brody, meanwhile, won his second Best Actor trophy last night. On his way to the podium, he realized he had gum in his mouth, spit it out, and threw it to his girlfriendthe Times captured a Renaissance paintinglike action shot of it. It was its own kind of cringe, and that was before Brody shushed the play-off orchestra to continue a meandering speech that even The Brutalists greatest fans can agree was going on too long. It wouldnt be an Adrien Brody Oscar acceptance speech if he didnt do at least one annoying thing.
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This is Totally Normal Quote of the Day, a feature highlighting a statement from the news that exemplifies just how extremely normal everything has become.

I write to request clarity on whether the Department of Justice (DOJ) has yielded to political pressure and attempts to weaponize the agency against elected officials whose speech they disagree with. New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, in a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi

Hello, Pam Bondi? Is your agency being weaponized?

Thats Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs question for the head of the DOJ, after Trump border czar Tom Homan threatened her for hosting a webinar with the Immigrant Defense Project, an advocacy group that offers legal aid to migrants, in which folks were educated on their legal rights, in case they encounter Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

In an interview with Fox News, Homan said he emailed the deputy attorney general, asking them to look into whether the representative was somehow obstructing justice.

Is that impeding our law enforcement efforts? If so, what are we going to do about it?  Maybe AOC is going to be in trouble now.

Ocasio-Cortez rejected the idea that informing people of their rights is impeding law enforcement. She wrote on X, Maybe he can learn to read. The Constitution would be a good place to start. Homan, again on Fox News, said he is well aware of the Constitution, but I am also aware the DOJ gives legal interpretations on issues like this to ensure ICE acts in accordance with the law.

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On Friday, AOC took things up a notch and penned a letter to AG Pam Bondi, demanding confirmation of whether she and/or her office were in fact under federal investigation. Over the past two weeks, Border Czar Tom Homan has gone on multiple forums threatening political prosecution against me, citing resources I distributed informing my constituents and the American public of their constitutional and legal rights, Ocasio-Cortez wrote.

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Related From Slate He Was the First Man Donald Trump Picked After the Election. He Might Be the Biggest Disaster of All. Read More

The representative also reminded Bondi of the First Amendment right to free speech, noting that Vice President J.D. Vance recently said, We may disagree with your views, but we will fight to defend your right to offer it in the public square.

Mr. Homans repeated attempts to use your agency to politically intimidate duly elected officials are a textbook threat to the right to free speech in the United States, Ocasio-Cortez wrote. Threatening criminal proceedings for exercising the First Amendment is itself a violation of the First Amendment.

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AOCs full-throated response to the Trump administration is a stark contrast to how her party has been handling Trump 2.0. Democrats have consistently been losing public confidence, even before Trump took office. A CNN poll from early January found that Democrats had a 33 percent approval rating. By February, that number had sunk to 21 percent, in a separate Quinnipiac poll. The party has been widely criticized for sitting quietly on the sidelines while Trump has signed a flurry of executive orders targeting immigrants and LGBTQ+ rights and gutting federal agencies.

Democrats have slowly started to raise more of a stink. Last week, California Rep. Dave Min introduced legislation (by the groan-worthy name of the BAD DOGE Act) to rein in Elon Musk, whos been spearheading the Trump administrations mass firing of civil servantsbut it has little chance of moving forward given the GOPs majority in the House.

Meanwhile, Ocasio-Cortez has taken a different approach. Shes been leveraging her social media prowess and communicating about what the presidents administration is doing and what it means for her constituents across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Now the Democratic firebrand has shown shes also not afraid to engage in a public showdown with the president and his cronies. Her party should be taking notes.
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In the month and change since he was sworn in as president for the second time, Donald Trump has flooded the zone with a range of dramatic and unprecedented executive orders and policy changes. But no group has been targeted quite as harshly as transgender Americans, whodue to an order defining sex in the governments eyes as immutable from conception and including only male and femalehave seen their very existence erased from the official record, and all manner of activities, from obtaining a passport and serving in the military to using the correct bathroom and playing sports, made impossible. The situation is dire, but theres a glimmer of hope in the fact that these actions are likely (or plainly) illegal, and already, courts have issued holds and injunctions on some of the diktats in response to aggressive legal action by LGBTQ+ and allied groups.

On a recent episode of Outward, hosts Bryan Lowder and Christina Cauterucci spoke with Chase Strangio, a lawyer for the American Civil Liberties Union and co-director of that organizations LGBT & HIV Project, about what its like to be on the front lines of the legal battle against Trump and the progress of the cases in which hes involved. In this excerpt, Strangio shares his thoughts about whats to be done if Trump ultimately ignores legal rulings, the problem with the trans debate, the limits of what we should hope for from the law, and how queer and trans people can survive in spite of its shortcomings. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Bryan Lowder: The thing thats keeping me up at night right now is this sort of Andrew Jackson theory, which Vice President Vance has been pretty actively pushing, that basically says, So what if the courts decide against these executive orders and policies, whos going to enforce it? I think the quote is that Andrew Jackson said, The chief justice has made his decision, now let him enforce it. There are no Supreme Court police, I dont think, that can come fix the websites or release the federal funding or directly remedy any of this stuff. So how do you, as a lawyer whos actively litigating these cases, think about that threat of noncompliance? I know you talk a lot on your social media about the law being an imperfect tool, so Im curious how youre thinking about that nightmare situation and the limits of the law in general.

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Chase Strangio: Im not someone whos ever thought that the law was going to be our savior or our transformative tool for building the world that we want. And so I think that the role of law right now and the role of lawyers like myself and civil rights lawyers, constitutional lawyers, is to hold back the government, to hold back the harms of the government, so that people can exercise other muscles, so they can build other tools. I think we have to be very careful not to think that this is going to be an exercise in the courts being the thing that protects us. One of my big concerns about the first Trump administration was that in the first six months to a year, there was this sense that lawyers will save us.

Remember, there was the stop to the Muslim ban originally, but ultimately that lost at the Supreme Court. There was the stop to the trans military ban, but that, too, lost in the end. And so the administration got more savvy. I think what happens is we cant allow the initial legal wins were seeing right now, the injunctions to the EOs and so forth, to slow our other mobilizing progress because we need to be prepared for when the Supreme Court upholds the policies or when he defies the orders.

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And then we need to be in the streets. We need to build a different muscle here, because we cant just simply say that the courts, the law, the legal work is enough. At a certain point, the system may not even work on its own terms, and many of us dont think it is the thing that should be guiding us anyway. I want us to think about all the tools and be building them simultaneously and be ready for anything. If that happens, if the administration refuses to comply with court decisions, then there should be millions of people in the street. Ultimately, we are the enforcers of it. We are the ones who have to put ourselves on the line to protect against things that we think are abhorrent.

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So thats one point. The other is that if youre the person working within the system and doing reform-based work, which I necessarily am, I guess Im just thinking one step at a time. We are a long way from a Supreme Court order that is either blessing these or that is being defied. So we have to be building the power within the work that were doing to try to delay the harms to keep people safer for longer. And within that time, help people recognize that part of their work is to find alternatives to the things that they were relying on in the pastpeople do need to find alternatives for caring for themselves. Unfortunately, I think thats the reality were in. I mean, trans people I know who are my age and older, so 42 and older, have five backup plans. I do think people should, without being overly paranoid, be realistic and strategic. So that, I think, is the way that we prepare for those moments: The more we have our needs met by caring for each other, the more were going to be equipped to fight back against whatever is coming. We do not do ourselves any favors if we are just complacent and thinking, Oh, itll just be OK, because, what, American exceptionalism? Thats just not going to work.

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Christina Cauterucci: Youre talking about the need to be in the streets. I feel like a part of that is changing the public debate. And I think weve seen in some recent sobering and disturbing polls that the anti-trans movement has succeeded in shifting public opinion in a lot of ways on a lot of issues where people used to be supportive of, lets say, trans people serving in the military. I think 70 percent of people were supportive of it a few years ago, and now its more like 50-something percent. You posted on Instagram recently about this idea of the transgender debate, which is a phrase that politicians and some media outlets will use. On a previous show, we talked about Meta, which recently decided to allow what Id call transphobic hate speech on Facebook and Instagram with the excuse that, well, there is this transgender debate and its a political debate and we have to allow that debate on our platforms. What do you say to counter that contention that trans people constitute the subject of legitimate public debate?

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Its so insidious and its repeated so much. And I would just like to ask people: What is the transgender debate? I think we really have to ask people what that means, because its very loaded and anything that is actually being asked could be phrased in many other ways. And so my frustration is twofold. The first thing is that it begs the question, in the sense that I think the fundamental question is: Should you debate something related to someones existence? And if you frame it as What is the transgender debate? youve accepted the premise that you should. My second-order critique is that it really obscures whats going on. Ultimately all of these questions are really about to what extent do people want there to be broader cultural discursive and legal notions of how one can or cannot embody sex. And if you ask the questions in those ways, people, a larger group of people, necessarily have to think about their own stakes in both the question and the answer. And I think that by avoiding that, you obscure the fact that you cant actually excise trans people from lots of legal protections without harming cis women in particular.

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Because the question is not asked that way, people dont feel implicated in it; they dont think that it goes beyond Can a trans person participate in sports? Well, thats how the law works. So if you decide to exclude someone from a paradigm, you have to change the rules and you have to define who is in the in-group and who is in the out-group. And the implications for that are far broader than just for trans people. What I want everyone to be doing is asking themselves, What is this question about debate really? And what does it mean for me? What does it mean for others? And what does it mean for the world in which we live? I think this is a very deliberate attempt to make the question smaller so that thoseTrump and Vance and this administrationcan use peoples ignorance and dislike of trans people to build executive power to entrench gender norms in a very aggressive way and move us towards the sort of authoritarian regime that theyre building. This is a classic move, in that we see it around the world in other authoritarian states, and thats my frustration with the trans debate on some level. Its like Im not even personally offended. Im intellectually offended.

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Theres also the very solid legal argument that this is literally sex discrimination. If you boil it down to, OK, well, what clothes do you have to wear to be seen as a woman? If somebody who thinks that a trans bathroom ban is going to magically keep bathrooms safe for cis women, have you experienced being a butch cis woman going into a womens bathroom? You are opening the door for all manner of people to be harassed.

Its always so baffling to me when Im like, Well, then how are you going to enforce and conceptualize this paradigm in a way that only trans people are harmed? And again, I dont think if you could, that would be ethical or lawful. Its just also impossible, because at the end of the day, theres no way to police the way trans people can live in the world without policing the lines of manhood and womanhood. And that is going to affect everyone. And we know that to be true if you stop and think about it for 15 seconds. I just want people to be a little more discerning here.
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Last week, the FBI Agents Association issued a memo assuring its members that FBI Director Kash Patel had privately acknowledged that the next deputy director of the bureau should be a career agent, someone with deep experience at the FBI. Dan Bonginos appointment to the position of second in command to Patel was announced an hour later, meaning the new No. 1 and No. 2 positions at the FBI have never served as FBI agents. Bongino is a former Secret Service agent and longtime podcaster with extreme conspiracy-fueled position on the events of Jan. 6, the classified documents case against Donald Trump, and the FBI itself.

Bonginos appointment is evidence of a chilling reversal at the highest echelons of law enforcement in the United States. Lacking the relevant experience to lead the bureau, the people charged with protecting and enforcing the law are being chosen for their stated desire to carry out unlawful acts and a willingness to use the powers of law enforcement to break the law. On this weeks Amicus, Dahlia Lithwick was joined by Asha Rangappa, a former FBI special agent who is now assistant dean and a senior lecturer at Yale Universitys Jackson School of Global Affairs; she also has a regular newsletter, the Freedom Academy. Their conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Dahlia Lithwick: Even in this maelstrom of law enforcement horrors, this appointment raises real red flags for me, maybe because of some of the things Bongino has said on his podcast, like that the bureau is lost and broken and irredeemably corrupt. Or because of what he said on Fox News after the FBI searched for and found classified documents at Mar-a-Lago: Every person involved in this has to be fired immediately, and, there is no fixing this, only rebuilding it. Can you help us pick through what is mere trolling to see what this all really means? The plan here is to impose radical reform at the FBI, and Im not sure we have begun to understand what that really looks like.

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Asha Rangappa: So, the deputy director is typically a career agent. The FBI Agents Association letter that went out said [it would be] somebody with at least 17 years of bureau experience, because this is someone who can effectively step into the shoes of the director if they need to. This person needs to have a birds eye understanding of the bureau, which does a lot of different things. It does criminal investigations, it does counterterrorism, it does counterintelligence, it has an intelligence function within the intelligence community. The deputy director would usually be someone who has enough experience to understand all these things, and who has developed relationships as they have come up through the ranks. In order to reach senior rank in the FBI you usually have to do tours through FBI headquarters, and go out to different field offices. Typically a deputy director would have extensive networks and contacts, in addition to all the different supervisory experience and management experience that theyve had. To have someone come in who has none of that is itself crazy.

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The next thing to consider is temperament. Any career agent, and typically any director until now who has worked at senior levels of the Justice Department, will have at some point been through a background check in order to get the appropriate clearances. The criteria that the FBI is checking for in these background checksthe rubric they use to determine whether somebody is suitable for a position of public trustis the Adjudicative Desk Reference. It lists three things that correlate with trustworthiness, reliability, and not presenting a security risk. No. 1 is a strong sense of social responsibility. No. 2 is self-control, or the ability to exercise responsible and rational control over ones impulses. And No. 3 is the ability to maintain personal or job commitments over time. Im not sure this new leadership at the FBI is really meeting those criteria. Were not seeing people who have a lot of self-control or who offer calm, deliberate, and dispassionate evaluation of things.

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Perhaps also salient under this rubric of temperament and self-control is how extreme some of Bonginos statements have been. His claims about what happened are not surprisingKash Patel is a Jan. 6 denialist, so of course his deputy would be toobut Bongino has asserted that pipe bombs found near the Capitol on Jan. 6 were an inside job, and that the FBI knew who it was. He has said he wants to shut down the FISA (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance) Court. Hes talked about firing every single FBI agent involved in the search of Donald Trumps home in Mar-a-Lago.

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I guess whats interesting to me is that while all that I just mentioned flies in the face of core FBI values, he now defends himself from these past statements by saying, we all play a role  I was just playing the lunatic podcaster. It seems to me this is another version of the Proud Boy/Oath Keeper play, when they say all this lawless stuff, and they do all this lawless stuff, and then say, Oh, I was just kidding!

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Weve seen this ploy before with Trump. My colleague and friend, Jennifer Meka, whos a scholar of rhetoric, explained this rhetorical trick she says demagogues use, and I think the people in Trumps orbit have learned it. Its called paralipsis. Paralipsis is this move of, Im saying, but Im not really saying. So the speaker may say something and then create a certain plausible deniability around it, so they can claim they werent really saying it.

Kash Patel is not really deploying this very well, because he did actually say the thing, but hes now after the fact saying that hes joking. Trump is much better at this, of talking out of both sides of his mouth. It is a way of avoiding accountability.

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Now, interestingly, the first letter that went out to all FBI agents after Patel was confirmed sounded shockingly normal. It sounded like the kind of letter a director would send out to agents, essentially saying, I value the work that you do, you all are the warriors that defend the rule of law, I have your backs.

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For a moment there I thought maybe were turning a corner. Maybe Patel is understanding the weightiness of this mantle. But then I understand that on his first day he ordered a thousand agents to be transferred to other field offices and 500 nonagents to be transferred to Huntsville, Alabama. Thats not a thoughtful, deliberate kind of decision when you look at what headquarters does and what that kind of hollowing out would do to our law enforcement capability. So I really dont know where this is going.

Related From Slate That Oval Office Shouting Match Was a Setup Read More

Was the purpose of sending all those agents way far afield just to get them to quit?

That was my first thought, because these are people who have families in the D.C. area, maybe they have spouses who are working, they have kids in school. And to suddenly be ordered to report to Boise, Idaho, or whatever, is a huge disruption. I can imagine that an effect will be that a large number of those people quit or retire.

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But this is also a part of Patels philosophy: He believes that agents should not be at headquarters. Hes had this disdain for FBI headquarters for a while, and hes talked about turning it into a museum, so I dont know that its completely surprising that he wanted everybody out of there.

I think I want to end with a big question, which is what happens when the defenders of law become the enemies of the law? Are we there yet? What will the markers be that weve fully lost our way in terms of who is enforcing the law? And I would love to know what we can do about it.

We need to move away from thinking that Is this legal? Or are we in a constitutional crisis? are the only important questions right now. These are bad frames to use right now because there is a huge runway of things that are legal but are still really, really bad. Pardoning all the Jan. 6 defendants was bad and if Kash Patel wants to hire them all as FBI agentsthese things are legal, theyre constitutional.

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Im definitely not an expert on countering authoritarian regimes. I defer to our friends and colleagues like Ruth Ben-Ghiat on these matters, but one of the things that does seem to be a good strategy is coalition building across differences. That is what they did in Chile to remove a dictator. And I always think of the Chilean example because I think, If these people could get rid of that dictator after 17 years, then we can definitely stop this tide. We are still very early, and we still have a lot of power.

Ill leave you with the last line of the Percy Bysshe Shelley poem, The Mask of Anarchy: Ye are many  they are few.
Race dates for the 2025 harness racing season at The Loop at Red River Exhibition Park have been approved.

A 10-date race meet has been approved for the Winnipeg, Manitoba racetrack, with live racing to be held every Saturday afternoon from Aug. 2 through Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. (CT).

Qualifiers will be held ahead of the meet on Saturday, July 12 at 1 p.m. (CT).

The complete race date schedule is available by clicking the link below.

The Loop - 10 days - View Race Date Schedule

Two additional race dates have been designated as make up dates in case of a cancellation. Those dates are Saturday, Oct. 11 and Saturday, Oct. 18 with post time also at 1 p.m. (CT).

Red River has also proposed that racing take place in Miami, Manitoba on July 19 and July 26.

(Standardbred Canada)
When the new Trump administration directed a temporary freeze on federal grants and loans last month, Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillens office offered a calm public-facing reaction.

But emails and text messages show that many Nebraska state agencies  like organizations across the U.S.  were simmering with questions and concern.

The federal directive had thrown into question if and when governments and organizations would get billions they use for everything from housing programs to highway construction.

Nebraska spent $5.5 billion in federal funding in the last fiscal year. Tendrils of that money weave through state government, helping pay for Medicaid and unemployment benefits, for state employee salaries and for communities recovering from natural disasters.

With funding in limbo, some agency leaders received streams of messages from national groups and confused peers in other states. They fielded emails from Nebraskans worried their projects were in jeopardy.

And Pillens office weighed the value of the largest federal grant ever awarded to Nebraskas Department of Environment and Energy: $307 million from the Environmental Protection Agency, much of it to incentivize farmers to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.

Internally, I don't know how much we want to fight to keep it, policy adviser Cicely Wardyn wrote of the grant. We can use it to benefit farmers and agriculture in the state, but don't want to run counter to Trump's Administration.

Judges temporarily blocked the freeze, the White House rescinded the original memo, and the disruptions proved short-lived, state officials said. But several executive orders still aim to weed out programs that dont align with President Donald Trumps priorities.

We are on board with the government cutting costs, and we are on board and working with the federal delegation to identify things that can be trimmed and cut, said Lee Will, who heads Nebraskas Department of Administrative Services, in an interview with the Flatwater Free Press.

****

Federal grants to states totaled over $1 trillion in fiscal year 2022, according to a Pew analysis. Nebraska received over $6 billion that year  nearly 40% of the revenue it collected.

But on Jan. 27, the Office of Management and Budget issued a memo directing federal agencies to pause funding while they evaluate programs consistent with the Presidents policies and requirements.

The use of Federal resources to advance Marxist equity, transgenderism, and green new deal social engineering policies is a waste of taxpayer dollars that does not improve the day-to-day lives of those we serve, it read.

The pause would take effect at 5 p.m. the next day.

The memo led to mass confusion, reported multiple national outlets.

A group of 22 states and Washington, D.C. sued and highlighted the devastating harm that would come from cuts to programs like Medicaid, state health systems, disaster relief, infrastructure, law enforcement and criminal justice, education and foster care.

The portal for processing Medicaid disbursement was inoperable in multiple states for hours, that complaint said. According to a Federal Funds Information for States analysis, 56% of Nebraskas federal grants went to Medicaid in fiscal year 2023.

U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, a Republican from Omaha who has criticized some of Trumps early moves, said some of the administrations cost-cutting efforts have proven inefficient.

President Trump is fulfilling his promise to the American people by looking for waste and fraud, which should be cut, he said in a statement. Before we make these cuts though, lets analyze unintended consequences. Weve seen too many cuts having to be overturned because the homework was not done.

****

The morning after the federal directive, the director of Nebraska's Department of Transportation sent text messages to contacts in the governor's office and department leaders.

Expecting guidance from USDOT by end of day, no action at this time but this would break us, Vicki Kramer wrote in a message regarding a federal program that reimburses states for highway construction and maintenance.

Confusion and concern werent limited to the transportation department.

The Flatwater Free Press requested emails and text messages from Jan. 27 and 28 that included words like Executive Order, Trump and OMB to and from top officials at 13 state agencies and the governors office, and those groups sent FFP hundreds of messages in response.

On Jan. 28, emails circulated from professional organizations and other national groups as they grappled with its effects.

No one seems to fully understand the impact, and this is true across all government agencies, one email read.

The Republican Governors Public Policy Committee asked for specific program concerns to raise during a call with OMB. The $307 million EPA grant is absolutely caught in this, Pillens staff concluded.

State Budget Administrator Neil Sullivan flagged money for disaster recovery and broadband access, and noted that the states biggest federal aid programs  aside from Medicaid  are education aid and developmental disability aid.

The Department of Veterans Affairs leadership noted federal funding makes up a significant amount of the operating budget for its veterans homes.

Employees within the states Department of Health and Human Services thought it could impact the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental nutrition assistance program that, as of September, served about 35,000 Nebraskans a month.

If this suspends draws, we will rapidly run into problems, DHHS Deputy Director of Finance and Operations Ryan Daly wrote in an email. Subaward reimbursements could pause for a short period and payroll could be covered temporarily, but Im concerned direct assistance programs like WIC could fail to make benefit payments.

In the hours before the funding freeze was to go into effect, the Department of Economic Development sent a few requests to the federal government seeking to get money for affordable housing construction projects.

There was also evidence of support for some cost-cutting.

Rick Dahlman, deputy director of the states Military Department, responded to a forwarded email from a national group that included a list of Department of Homeland Security grants headed for review: You have to admit there is a lot of fat in there!

Agree, responded Erv Portis, assistant director for the states Emergency Management Agency. Problem is we have enough funds drawn down for about two payrolls.

As the day went on, agencies circulated new information from OMB, including a list of programs under review and instructions for evaluation.

This is wild  wrote Dave Dearmont, chief economist in the Department of Economic Development, in an email with that attachment.

****

Concerns about the funding freeze trickled down to local governments and groups that receive federal money through the state.

A Kearney-based nonprofit that provides housing for people in crisis asked state officials whether it should pause projects related to two grants. Buffalo County emergency management wondered if it should stop purchases related to a grant that was already approved.

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency ran into delays processing a payment for 2019 FEMA flood recovery in Plattsmouth.

The issue we are running into is the payment system is down and our finance team cannot get into it. As far as a contact regarding the (executive order), we do not have one, a NEMA employee wrote to Plattsmouth officials.

The $14.3 million reimbursement pending that day has since been received, according to the city administrator.

The Nebraska Crime Commission sent an email to grant subrecipients, saying that it wouldnt be able to access federal funds and couldnt make new subawards.

We had limited information from our federal contacts on how to address some of the obvious concerns, Director Bryan Tuma said in an email to the Flatwater Free Press. Honestly, they had limited information available to them as well. Within 24 hours the directive was rescinded and we resumed normal operations.

****

By that afternoon, state agencies received a message from Dave Lopez, Pillens chief of staff.

We understand that clarity is needed  Please know that we are working to get additional guidance from our federal partners and will join a call with OMB tomorrow to learn more, he wrote.

If state agencies could themselves get clarification from a federal agency, he wrote, they should do it. And they should compile any priority issues to raise with the feds.

So as to reduce confusion, we urge you to wait until we have better information from the federal government before providing further public guidance to your stakeholders, Lopez wrote.

Pillens spokesperson also issued a reassuring public statement: President Trump promised the American people he would rein in federal spending that was out of step with their priorities. He is clearly making good on that promise.

Our administration is working with state agencies and our federal partners to evaluate the impacts  and will provide additional input in the days and weeks ahead.

A judge soon temporarily blocked the freeze, and the White House rescinded its memo.

****

Will, the DAS director, said the disruptions were so brief that they didnt affect the states financial system.

For a couple hours we were not able to draw any federal funds, he said in an interview. Then, by the end of the afternoon, everything was open again.

Several Nebraska agencies also told the Flatwater Free Press that none of their federal funding is currently frozen.

Other executive orders have triggered some changes at state agencies, emails show.

The Department of Labor took down its Discrimination Complaint Information Form, where people could report alleged discrimination. According to a spokesperson, the department still receives those complaints via other means.

The Federal Highway Administration rescinded guidance for a federal program meant to help states build out electric vehicle charging infrastructure, which has paused Nebraskas related efforts at the state level.

After a call with other states on Jan. 28, Kara Valentine, then interim director of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, wrote to colleagues that all environmental justice conferences had been canceled, a Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool had gone dark and they expected all federal environmental justice employees to be put on administrative leave.

I explained that we dont know the status of any funding, whether there is a pause or freeze on federal funding, or when to expect answers from EPA; the other states are in the same boat, Valentine wrote.

That $307 million EPA grant was initially put on hold. Despite recent news from the EPA that the funding is now accessible, the state has yet to receive confirmation that the EPA has finished its review of this specific grant program, according to NDEE spokesperson Carla Felix.

Nebraska plans to use that money to, among other efforts, offer financial incentives for ag producers to adopt more environmentally-friendly practices and for commercial buildings to be more energy efficient.

The state is once again developing programs related to the grant but delaying implementation in order to protect Nebraska grant recipients from incurring costs that the State may not be able to reimburse, Felix said.

Will said it makes sense to scrutinize every grant. He expects changes, but said the state didnt yet know specifics.

We are supportive, broadly, that we need to reduce our debt and we need to reduce our expenditures, he said. Especially on things that dont provide benefit to the citizens of Nebraska and, more broadly, of the United States.
Jio Platforms Limited (JPL), together with AMD, Cisco, and Nokia, announced at Mobile World Congress 2025 plans to form an innovative, new Open Telecom AI Platform. Designed to support todays operators and service providers with real-world, AI-driven solutions, the Telecom AI Platform is set to drive unprecedented efficiency, security, capabilities, and new revenue opportunities for the service provider industry.

End-to-end Network Intelligence

Fueled by the collective expertise of world leaders from across domains including RAN, Routing, AI Data Center, Security and Telecom, the Telecom AI Platform will create a new central intelligence layer for telecom and digital services. This multi-domain intelligence framework will integrate AI and automation into every layer of network operations.

The AI platform will be LLM agnostic and utilize open APIs to optimize its functionality and capabilities. By harnessing agentic AI and leveraging both Large Language Models (LLMs), domain-specific Small Language Models (SLMs), and non-GenAI machine learning techniques, the Telecom AI Platform will enable end-to-end intelligence for network management and operations.

Top Breaking News Of The Day

By harnessing agentic AI across all telco layers, we are building a multimodal, multidomain orchestrated workflow platform that redefines efficiency, intelligence, and security for the telecom industry, said Mathew Oommen, Group CEO, Reliance Jio. In collaboration with AMD, Cisco, and Nokia, Jio is advancing the Open Telecom AI Platform to transform networks into self-optimizing, customer-aware ecosystems. This initiative goes beyond automationits about enabling AI-driven, autonomous networks that adapt in real time, enhance user experiences, and create new service and revenue opportunities across the digital ecosystem.

AMD is proud to collaborate with Jio Platforms Limited, Cisco, and Nokia to power the next generation of AI-driven telecom infrastructure, said Lisa Su, chair and CEO, AMD. By leveraging our broad portfolio of high-performance CPUs, GPUs, and adaptive computing solutions, service providers will be able to create more secure, efficient, and scalable networks. Together we can bring the transformational benefits of AI to both operators and users and enable innovative services that will shape the future of communications and connectivity.

This collaboration with Jio Platforms Limited, AMD and Nokia harnesses the expertise of industry leaders to revolutionize networks with AI, said Chuck Robbins, Chair and CEO, Cisco. Cisco is proud of the role we play here with integrated solutions from across our stack including Cisco Agile Services Networking, Data Center Networking, Compute, AI Defense, and Splunk Analytics. We look forward to seeing how the Telecom AI Platform will boost efficiency, enhance security, and unlock new revenue streams for service provider customers.

Nokia possesses trusted technology leadership in multiple domains, including RAN, Core, fixed broadband, IP and optical transport. We are delighted to bring this broad expertise to the table in service of todays important announcement, said Pekka Lundmark, President and CEO at Nokia. The Telecom AI Platform will help Jio to optimize and monetize their network investments through enhanced performance, security, operational efficiency, automation and greatly improved customer experience, all via the immense power of artificial intelligence. I am proud that Nokia is contributing to this work.

A New Open Framework for the Industry

The new Open Telecom AI Platform planned by JPL, AMD, Cisco, and Nokia will be built with Jio as the first customer, creating a replicable reference architecture and deployable solution for the broader global service provider industry. Designed to enhance performance, reliability, security, and customer experience, the Open Telecom AI Platform will foster joint development and commercialization of AI-powered telecom solutions. Beyond transforming connectivity, this initiative is intended to drive innovation across the entire telecom and digital services ecosystem, enabling intelligent automation, optimizing network efficiency, and accelerating the adoption of AI-driven applications that enhance enterprise and consumer experiences.
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Using an input image, the Tree-D Fusion creates a 3D tree model that can be used to simulate various stages of development. Credit: Tree-D Fusion Team

Trees compete for space as they grow. A tree with branches close to a wall will develop differently from one growing on open ground.

Now everyonefrom urban planners and environmental scientists to homeownerscan access a new algorithm for tree reconstruction developed at Purdue University to see how the trees will shade an area or learn what a tree will look like in 20 years. Purdue computer scientists and digital foresters have used artificial intelligence to generate this first-ever database, which contains three-dimensional models of more than 600,000 real trees.

"These tree models are what we call 'simulation-ready,'" said Purdue's Bedrich Benes, professor and associate head of the Department of Computer Science in the College of Science and a member of the Institute for Digital Forestry. The database and related code are publicly available.

Tree-D Fusion can reconstruct 3D simulation-ready tree models from a single image, like these examples using a Google Street View image. Credit: Tree-D Fusion Team

Benes and colleagues at Purdue's Institute for Digital Forestry, Google and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology described the details of their Tree-D Fusion algorithm in the conference proceedings of the European Conference on Computer Vision (ECCV), 2024.

"Trees provide immense and essential value to human society and underpin diverse ecosystems worldwide. They cool the environment, improve air quality, capture carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, and have a positive effect on human physical and mental health," the co-authors wrote. "The complex effect of trees on the environment has been studied for centuries. Currently, computational models that seek to understand these relationships are hindered by a lack of data."

The team used the data from the Auto Arborist Dataset introduced by a Google Research team in 2022. The dataset consisted of about 2.6 million trees belonging to 32 genus-level categories from 23 North American cities.

"The particular challenge of this project was getting the three-dimensional model from a single image," Benes said. "There is not enough input data to extract high-detail information. The generated tree models are approximations. We don't claim that these are perfect digital twins, but they are useful, for example, for estimating the shading in urban areas."

"We leverage recent advances in diffusion models to provide prior information for 3D tree reconstruction," said Raymond Yeh, assistant professor of computer science, who leads the computer vision and AI efforts of the project.

Tree-D Fusion will offer more in the future, said the study's lead author, Purdue's Jae Joong Lee, a Ph.D. student in Benes's Computational Vegetation Group and a member of the Institute for Digital Forestry. "Together with my collaborators, I envision expanding the platform's capabilities to a planetary scale. Our goal is to use AI-driven insights on social and environmental benefits on a large scale," Lee said.

Additional co-authors include Purdue's Bosheng Li, Raymond Yeh and Songlin Fei, all members of the Institute for Digital Forestry; Sara Beery of Massachusetts Institute of Technology; and Jonathan Huang, formerly of Google, now head of AI at Scaled Foundations.

"One goal of Digital Forestry is to improve societal human well-being. We have different projects working on tree localization and inventory from smartphone to satellite," said Fei, the institute's director and Dean's Chair in Remote Sensing.

"This project provides contextualized information on urban tree structure that can be done at scale, providing managers critical information to better manage urban trees. With continued progress on this and other projects, we aim to help make our cities greener, smarter and healthier, tree by tree."

The initial data for Tree-D Fusion came from public tree census records that many cities maintain online. The Google Research team then merged the tree census data with Street View and overhead color imagery. This made available a large-scale, computer-vision tree monitoring tool for the first time. Researchers at MIT's Senseable City Lab have already used the new 3D tree models to plot shaded walking routes through select cities.

"Every time a tree-mapping vehicle passes through a city now, we're not just taking snapshotswe're watching these urban forests evolve in real time," said Beery, assistant professor in the MIT Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Department.

"This continuous monitoring creates a living digital forest that mirrors its physical counterpart, offering cities a powerful lens to observe how environmental stresses shape tree health and growth patterns across the urban landscape."

Comparisons between other 3D reconstruction methods and Tree-D Fusion showed that the latter performs better in many aspects, including projected shading, which is important in planning for green cities.

"The AI model we used was quite computationally demanding," Benes said. Calculating the entire dataset with a single graphics processing unit (GPU) would have taken about 23 years. Even using all nine of the supercomputing clusters that Purdue's Rosen Center for Advanced Computing had at the timenow it has tenthe calculations took nearly six months to complete.

More information: Jae Joong Lee et al, Tree-D Fusion: Simulation-Ready Tree Dataset from Single Images with Diffusion Priors, Computer Vision  ECCV 2024 (2024). DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-72940-9_25
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The annual Mobile World Congress (MWC) is set to draw around 100,000 attendees, the day before fresh American tariffs come into force on Chinese goods.

The world's largest wireless technology showcase kicked off on Monday, with excitement over AI's potential to transform gadgets clashing with concerns over trade tensions fueled by the United States.

The annual Mobile World Congress (MWC), which is set to draw around 100,000 attendees in Barcelona, opened the day before fresh American tariffs come into force on Chinese goods.

And Europe was in the sights of US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chief Brendan Carr, who called EU tech regulations "excessive" in a panel discussion.

A dense crowd packed the halls between stands blazing with screens from early morning, hunting out the latest devices and innovations from manufacturers or set to participate in debates about the future of the industry.

Telecoms chiefs appealed for easier regulation and greater freedom to merge their businesses in Europe as they seek fatter margins and the scale to sustain infrastructure investment.

"It is time for large European telcos to be allowed to consolidate and grow," said Marc Murtra, head of Spain's Telefonica.

Meanwhile Sunil Bharti Mittal, head of India's Airtel, urged "government, regulators, please lower taxes on this industry. Please give enough spectrum at affordable costs".

Tariff blow to China

Many exhibitors at the MWC hail from China, whose products will be hit by an additional 10-percent import tariff on top of the 10 percent already imposed by President Donald Trump since he took office in January.

Tech on display at the MWC includes things such as Oracle's public safety cybertruck.

China is home to major tech companies such as Huawei, but it also assembles smartphones and other products sold by foreign firms such as Apple and produces key components.

"Obviously a global tariff war would not be to anyone's benefit," although "nobody really knows what's going to happen" on trade, said Pekka Lundmark, CEO of major network hardware maker Nokia, at a pre-MWC event late Sunday.

Higher costs for trade could impact the entire global tech and smartphone market if Trump keeps the China tariffs in place and extends them to other major economies like the European Union.

FCC boss Carr said that Brussels regulations aimed at mostly US-based tech giants, notably the Digital Services Act (DSA), represented "censorship that is potentially coming down the pipe", echoing a broadside last month from Vice President JD Vance.

The European Commission said last week that it would stand up for its tech legislation even in the face of trade measures threatened by the White House.

Renate Nikolay, the European Commission's deputy director-general for communications networks, told a panel discussion that the "challenging geopolitical context" means "it's crucial for Europe to ensure our tech sovereignty and our strategic autonomy in critical sectors".

With no clear answers on trade, "our clients are wondering about the impact of developments in international politics... nevertheless, there's no panic for now," said Clotilde Begon-Lours of Boston Consulting Group.

AI, AI everywhere

AI features were inescapable in the avenues of the conference halls, with almost every stand proclaiming the technology's integration everywhere from consumer devices to telecom networks' innards.

An MWC attendee takes a selfie with a humanoid robot at the trade fair where AI is the center of attention.

Speaking by video link, Google futurologist Ray Kurzweil predicted a future within a decade when AI would "interact directly with our brain systems", which he said could massively augment human intelligence.

More prosaically, phone makers were showing off how the technology will work for consumers in their latest models.

Samsung demonstrated a smartphone able to carry out simple tasks requested by the user in natural language, in line with the current industry-wide trend towards AI "agents", supposed to be able to act independently on users' behalf.

China's Honor said its new phones would incorporate a tool to detect AI "deepfake" images or video created with the likeness of real people.

"If you wander around the stands of the telecom operators and tech vendors, you're really seeing demonstrations of concrete AI applications," BGC's Begon-Lours said.

Generative AI's capture of tech industry attention since ChatGPT first emerged has made it a must-have for any firm developing new devices.

Even before the advent of accessible AI, smartphone sales recovered from two years of shrinkage to expand 6.3 percent in 2024topping 1.2 billion units, according to market intelligence firm IDC.

Manufacturers are optimistic about maintaining the momentum into this year.

 2025 AFP
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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said automakers would have three years instead of one to comply with CO2 targets.

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen offered Monday to give struggling European carmakers "breathing space" by allowing them extra time to meet 2025 emission reduction targets without facing fines.

The announcement is part of the bloc's push to protect the auto industry, which employs 13 million people and accounts for about seven percent of Europe's GDP.

"There's a clear demand for more flexibility on CO 2 targets," the European Commission president told reporters in Brussels. "Instead of the annual compliance, companies will get three years."

Von der Leyen added companies would still have to "fulfill" the same targets.

"But it means more breathing space for industry. It means also more clarity," she said after talks on Monday with industry representatives including from BMW, Renault, Volkswagen and Stellantis, which owns several brands including Jeep, Fiat and Peugeot.

The European Union has prioritized tackling climate change and agreed to phase out new sales of combustion engine vehicles by 2035.

Starting this year the EU is lowering the average emissions that new vehicles sold in the 27-country bloc are permitted to produce, with carmakers facing steep fines if they fail to comply.

Carmakers had expressed concern that they would not be able to meet the target because of falling sales of electric vehicles in Europe and amid fierce Chinese competition.

The proposed changes will still need approval from EU states and the European Parliament.

The fines had faced criticism from Germany, Italy and Francewhose European affairs minister Benjamin Haddad welcomed the commission's move as "a common sense decision to safeguard our industrial sovereignty."

The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), an industry group, welcomed the proposal as "a first step in the right direction".

Boosting European production

The EU is focusing on reviving its competitiveness as it falls behind the United States and China. Brussels already announced measures last week to bring down energy costs in Europe, which are far higher than in the United States.

Von der Leyen will officially present her broader "action plan" for the auto sector Wednesday after several rounds of talks with industry leaders about EU steps to support the crisis-ridden sector.

But she laid out its key measures on Monday.

In addition to flexibility on emissions, she said that to boost innovation the EU would support an industry alliance to pool resources for the development of software, chips and autonomous driving technology.

She also promised to launch large scale pilot projects for autonomous cars and direct support for EU battery producers to compete with cheaper batteries produced outside the bloc.

ACEA welcomed the moves as "positive signs" while the CEO of German auto behemoth Volkswagen, Oliver Blume, welcomed the EU's "pragmatic approach."

In a "Made in Europe" push, von der Leyen said the EU would "gradually introduce European content requirements" for battery cells and components.

Brussels will also present plans to decarbonize company car fleets, which represent 60 percent of new vehicles placed on the market, an EU official told AFP.

'Unprecedented gift' to auto sector

EU industry chief Stephane Sejourne welcomed the emission rule delay after pushing for flexibility.

"We will not penalize the industry that we must help. In effect, the good students will be able to capitalize on their efforts, those who are behind will have more time," Sejourne said.

Groups calling for cleaner transport rules, however, criticized the proposal.

The Transport and Environment pressure group described it as an "unprecedented gift to Europe's car industry in the middle of a compliance year".

"Weakening the EU clean car rules rewards laggards and does little for Europe's car industry except to leave it further behind China on electric vehicles," William Todts, executive director of the clean transport advocacy group, said.

"The EU risks creating very damaging uncertainty about the electric vehicle transition in Europe," Todts said in a statement.

 2025 AFP
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The Federal Trade Commission's dispute with MGM Resorts International over providing information about 2023's costly cyberattack against the company may be coming to a resolution.

The FTC has told MGM it plans to withdraw its civil investigative demand regarding the incident that cost the company an estimated $100 million and crippled the company's resort operations for nine days in September 2023.

In a two-paragraph letter Tuesday from FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson to Brian Boyle, a member of MGM's Washington-based legal team, the federal agency said it is withdrawing its demand, known as a CID.

A copy of the letter was provided to the Review-Journal by MGM.

The CID, issued Jan. 25, 2024, spurred a lawsuit by MGM against the FTC in April.

"The CID issued by the former chair of the FTC was a dangerous overreach that sought to punish MGM Resorts for refusing to pay cybercriminals," MGM said in a statement Friday. "We're pleased that the new chair has withdrawn it."

Boyle asked the court for a March 21 status report to determine whether the case is moot.

It's unclear why the FTC reversed course on the CID.

Cyberattack damage

During the cyberattack, hundreds of slot machines were inoperative, guests could not access their rooms with smartphones and credit-card payment systems were disrupted, leading to the manual processing of credit-card transactions. Onsite ATMs and the company's phone system were also inoperative.

When the FTC issued its CID in January 2024, it sought information on 100 different categories of information spanning multiple years. MGM believed much of the information sought was irrelevant to the cyberattack. The company wrote a letter unsuccessfully seeking a deadline extension. When the FTC refused the deadline extension, both sides took to the courts.

In April, MGM filed a four-count lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia against the FTC and then-Chair Lina Khan, who, with an aide, was checking in to the MGM Grand while attending a conference at the height of the cyberattack.

The lawsuit sought an injunction to block the CID and claimed the FTC violated MGM's Fifth Amendment rights to due process, adding that Khan should have been disqualified for conflict of interest as a hotel guest.

MGM alleged the FTC failed to follow its own conflict-of-interest guidelines.

The lawsuit also sought a reasonable deadline to file the CID if the FTC was allowed to continue its investigation.

FTC lawsuit

The FTC in June countered with its own lawsuit against MGM in the U.S. District Court in Nevada. In it, the FTC asked the court to compel MGM to respond to the investigation, saying the government agency represented consumers affected by the cyberattack in 2023 and an earlier attack in February 2019.

The FTC also said it considers the casino to be a financial institution subject to lending rules because it allows high-rollers to gamble with "markers."

Markers are no-interest loans that gamblers are expected to pay back to the casino within 30 days and are used as a convenient incentive to high-rollers to play at a specific casino.

While gambling with markers represents a small percentage of casino play, gaming companies say it's the equivalent of a gambler playing on a tab and not on credit.

In response to the FTC lawsuit, MGM said it cooperated fully with federal investigators who urged the company not to pay a ransom sought by criminals who attacked MGM's systems.

In July, British law enforcement authorities working with the FBI arrested a teenage boy in connection with the attack. The unidentified teen was released on bond after being apprehended by the Regional Organized Crime Unit for the West Midlands in Wallsal, a small city in central England.

Law enforcement authorities believe the cyberattack was organized by Scattered Spider, a multinational crime group responsible for a number of ransomware attacks on companies worldwide.

MGM says the publicity of Khan's experience triggered 15 consumer class-action lawsuits against MGM.

Two of those class actions were settled in January and are expected to be formally approved by the court in June with MGM agreeing to pay $45 million.

Under the terms of what is called a "global settlement," class members whose Social Security numbers or military identification numbers were exposed are eligible for a $75 cash payment while those whose passport number or driver's license were exposed are eligible for $50. In addition, all settlement class members may get identity theft protection and credit monitoring.

2025 Las Vegas Review-Journal. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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NEC Core: Achieve rapid and efficient exposure control by breaking loop dependency with neuromorphic events. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54789-8

A research team has recently developed a neuromorphic exposure control (NEC) system that enhances machine vision under extreme lighting variations.

Published in Nature Communications, this biologically inspired system mimics human peripheral vision to achieve unprecedented speed and robustness in dynamic perception environments. The research team was led by Professor Jia Pan and Professor Yifan Evan Peng from the Department of Computer Science and Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering under the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), in collaboration with a researcher at Australian National University.

Traditional automatic exposure (AE) systems rely on iterative image feedback, creating a chicken-and-egg dilemma that fails in sudden brightness shifts (e.g., tunnels, glare). The NEC system solves this by integrating event camerassensors that capture per-pixel brightness changes as asynchronous "events"with a novel Trilinear Event Double Integral (TEDI) algorithm. This approach: Operates at 130 million events/sec on a single CPU, enabling edge deployment.

"Like how our pupils instantly adapt to light, NEC mimics biological synergy between retinal pathways," explained Shijie Lin, the first author of the article. "By fusing event streams with physical light metrics, we bypass traditional bottlenecks to deliver lighting-agnostic vision."

NEC can be applied on moving vehicles and headsets. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54789-8

NCE can be used in Medical AR assistance and 3D reconstruction. Credit: Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54789-8

In tests, the team has validated NEC across mission-critical scenarios:

Autonomous Driving: Improved detection accuracy (mAP +47.3%) when vehicles exit tunnels into blinding sunlight. Augmented Reality (AR): Achieved 11% higher pose estimation (PCK) for hand tracking under surgical lights. 3D Reconstruction: Enabled continuous SLAM in overexposed environments where conventional methods fail. Medical AR Assistance: Maintained clear intraoperative visualization despite dynamic spotlight adjustments.

Professor Pan said, "This breakthrough represents a significant leap in machine vision by bridging the gap between biological principles and computational efficiency. The NEC system not only addresses the limitations of traditional exposure control but also paves the way for more adaptive and resilient vision systems in real-world applications, from autonomous vehicles to medical robotics."

Professor Peng commented, "Our collaborative work has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of neuromorphic engineering. By leveraging event-based sensing and bio-inspired algorithms, we've created a system that is not only faster but also more robust under extreme conditions. This is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research in solving diverse complex engineering challenges."

In the long term, the NEC paradigm offers a novel event-frame processing scheme that reduces the processing burden of high-resolution events/images and incorporates bio-plausible principles into the low-level control of the machine eyes. This opens new avenues for camera design, system control, and downstream algorithms. The team's success in embodying neuromorphic synergy in various systems is a milestone that can inspire many optical/image/neuromorphic processing pipelines and implies direct economic and practical implications for the industry.

More information: Shijie Lin et al, Embodied neuromorphic synergy for lighting-robust machine vision to see in extreme bright, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-54789-8 Journal information: Nature Communications
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Singapore media have linked a local fraud case to the alleged movement of Nvidia chips to be used by Chinese AI firm DeepSeek.

Servers that may contain AI-powering Nvidia chips shipped from the United States to Singapore ended up in Malaysia, but their actual final destination remains a mystery, the city-state's interior minister said Monday.

The United States is cracking down on exports of advanced semiconductors to China, seeking to retain a competitive edge over the technology.

But Bloomberg News reported in late January that US officials were probing whether DeepSeek bought advanced Nvidia semiconductors through third parties in Singapore, skirting Washington's restrictions.

K. Shanmugam, who is also the law minister, said the route of the chips emerged in the course of an investigation of three men charged last week with fraud by making false representations.

Local media have linked their cases to the alleged movement of Nvidia chips from Singapore to be used by Chinese AI firm DeepSeek.

"Essentially, the case relates to servers with chips embedded in them coming into Singapore, and then from Singapore, they went to Malaysia," Shanmugam said.

The servers were supplied to Singapore-based companies by US firms Dell and Super Micro, according to Shanmugam.

"The question is whether Malaysia was a final destination or from Malaysia it went to somewhere else, which we do not know for certain at this point," he said.

"But we assessed that there may have been false representation on the final destination of the servers."

He said Singapore had asked both the US and Malaysia for more information.

Pressed about links to Nvidia, Shanmugam said, "We assessed that the servers may contain Nvidia chips. I think that's the highest I can put it at, at this point."

In January, DeepSeek released its R1 chatbot, shaking the global tech market and claiming its tool can match the capacity of top US AI products for a fraction of their costs.

 2025 AFP
Vietnam must develop nuclear energy as baseload to double power capacity by 2030: Deputy PM

By Tri Duc Mon, March 3, 2025 | 9:43 pm GMT+7

As Vietnam has to increase its power capacity by 70,000 MW before 2030 with renewable energy playing a major role, developing nuclear energy as baseload for the system is inevitable, said Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh.

Binh made the statement at a Sunday working session with the Dalat Nuclear Research Institute in the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong.

Doubling the energy capacity to ensure sufficient energy supply is crucial to Vietnams target of economic growth over 10% annually in the next era, Binh emphasized.

Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh (right) works with the Dalat Nuclear Research Institute in Lam Dong province, Vietnam's Central Highlands, March 2, 2025. Photo courtesy of the government's news portal.

Therefore, Binh called on the institute to research and develop nuclear technology, approaching global standards to help the countrys growth.

Vietnam is now capable of developing and will prioritize nuclear science, he added.

The country had increased its power sources by 1,500 MW to 82,400 MW as of end-2024, Vietnam Electricity (EVN) said at its 2024 performance review. The figure was the highest in Southeast Asia, the state utility added.

In 2005, Vietnam's Party Central Committee greenlighted a plan to build two nuclear power plants in the south-central province of Ninh Thuan. Four years later, the National Assembly okayed the plan with an initial investment of VND200 trillion ($7.9 billion at the current forex rate).

In November 2016, the parliament decided to halt the 4,000 MW project, citing safety, funding and technology reasons. In November 2024, it agreed to resume the nuclear power project in Ninh Thuan after an eight-year suspension.

Many countries have expressed their willingness to coooperate with Vietnam in nuclear power, such as South Korea, Russia, Japan, and France.
Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College is preparing students for the real workforce with hands-on training involving cutting-edge machine tool technology housed in a new, long-awaited technology center.

College staff joined officials from the business community and local and state government on Monday morning to cut the ribbon on a new, $2 million Machine Tool Technology Center. Its housed in the Anne S. Crook Transportation and Logistics Center.

If you think about machine tool and the machinist trade, they really are the foundation for manufacturing. Our goal really was to take what was in private industry and mimic that here on campus so that the training that our students receive really reflects the environment that theyll go into, OCtech President Dr. Walt Tobin said.

DevRon Bell-Phelps, 18, is a machine tool technology student who feels great about the equipment upgrade.

Im just now starting to get into it, but Im actually learning a lot working on the machines. Manually, its getting a little easier to control, a little easier to work with. Now I just want to see what these new machines will do to further (our learning). Im just trying to get used to them, getting the real feel of them and see how much knowledge I can work on getting, he said.

Tobin praised Adam Carter, machine tool program coordinator, and Chris Gerstner, machine tool technology instructor, for their support of the program and the advancement of its students.

Adam and Chris have done a really good job connecting with our local industry partners, Zeus and Phoenix Specialty in particular, to make sure that the things that these students are working on really reflect what theyll do when they go out into the workforce, Tobin said.

Cutting-edge computer numerical control machines that use precision instructions to cut, shape or drill materials are among the precision manufacturing equipment that is housed in the new technology center, which was moved from Building J to Building T.

Coordinate measuring machines, which use coordinate processing technology to inspect parts and ensure they meet design standards, are among the other equipment housed in the lab.

The technology center is also equipped with a manual machine lab, which helps students learn the basics of machine tool technology.

This renovation has brought us up to this century. I hate to say it, but a lot of the machinery was outdated. The way that this has evolved is weve gone to multi-access-type machines, machines that are faster. Efficiency is a big thing that we preach, Carter said.

Carter said the lab has four brand-new machines with multi-access capabilities.

Before, we didnt have like a fourth axis rotary. On the end of each of these tables is a rotary, Carter said.

A fourth axis rotary, also known as a trunnion table or rotary table, is a component of a CNC machine that allows the workpiece to rotate. This additional axis enables the machine to create complex shapes and curves.

We also have that capability on all of our lathes, as well. It has whats called live tooling, Carter said, referring to the cutting tool thats mounted on the turret and can rotate independently of the workpiece and allow for more complex machining operations to be performed in one run.

That means we can actually do some of the milling functions while its on the lathe. So instead of the old-school mentality where you do one step at a time and have 10 or 15 different setups, we do it all in one, Carter said.

Gerstner said, It mocks what our local industry is using today. We have automated vending machines for storing inventory. The students will be able to scan their badge and get access to the inventory thats inside to come out and prepare their setups, which is very similar to what manufacturing does today.

He continued, The technology, the equipment mimics what theyre using out there. Its a direct fit with local industry.

Officials from Zeus Industrial Products Inc. and Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing Company were present at the ribbon-cutting, representing some of the local industries that partner with the college on workforce development initiatives.

Phoenix Specialty Chief Executive Officer Russell Hurst said, The new equipment here really is state-of-the-art. Every manufacturing facility around here is going to run this type of equipment. This is a huge investment to modernize the equipment.

Hurst continued, Theres a wire electric discharge machine in one room. Thats state-of-the-art, and its brand-new equipment. So, in the big picture, the investment here brings the technology up to date.

With this background, students can do into quality, they can go into engineering, they can go into design or design engineering, or they can go into the actual machining. Were a huge advocate of this program. We look forward to building this partnership, he said.

Hurst said Phoenix Specialty also looks forward to restarting its apprenticeship program with OCtech.

Phoenix Specialtys HR training specialist is working with Dr. Stephanie Dauway, OCtechs assistant vice president for academics and workforce development, to rebuild the program.

Pheonix Training and Employee Development Specialist Todd Jamison said, Were going to be collaborating with OCtech and looking to generate a pool of individuals from the Orangeburg area and from this county so that they can come in, learn CNC programming, learn G-code, M-Code, so that when they come into the workforce, theyre ready to hit the ground running.

He continued, So Im working along with Stephanie in order to build that program, look at the classes that will best fit the positions that we have. Examples of those positions are the machinists, quality techs and so forth.

Carter said, We dont just connect people to possibilities. We connect possibilities to our people. We bring industries in by training our people the proper way.

Our students are going to be the next generation out there making the difference and evolving how machine tool works out in the community. I want to say thank you to everybody who has made this happen.
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The similarities between Czechoslovakia in 1938 and todays Ukraine are striking. But this time, the appeaser is the United States.

History teaches us that peace cannot and should not be achieved at any price. St. Augustine believed in the morally justified war, and if ever there was a justified war it was World War II. Hitler had to be stopped from destroying civilization and reducing humanity to a vast prison camp controlled by a ruthless master race.

So, given the grave situation today in Central and Eastern Europe, it is incumbent on us to recall how that threat began: the Munich Crisis of 1938 when Great Britain and France agreed to Hitlers demand to absorb the German-speaking Sudetenland border region of Czechoslovakia into the Third Reich.

Not only did this act of appeasement sell out the Czechs by dismantling their national sovereignty and laying the ground for the German invasion of Czechoslovakia in March 1939; it began the slippery slope toward the Nazi plan to conquer Europe in its entirety. Upon his return to London from Munich on 30 September 1938, having signed an agreement that carved up Czechoslovakia, British Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain infamously told the waiting crowd: I believe it is peace for our time. In the end it was only the German invasion of Poland that forced the Western powers finally to stand up to Hitler.

The same scenario of appeasement in the face of military aggression is now being played out with regard to U.S. President Donald Trumps astonishing response to Russias war against Ukraine. Whereas in the lead-up to World War II, Great Britain was the appeaser, now it is the United States. Trumps desire for peace at all costs is not a sign of strength but of weakness that will have the inevitable effect of emboldening Russia to consolidate its territorial gains in eastern Ukraine and will also encourage it to threaten the independence of the Baltic states and perhaps Poland as well.

The similarities between the plights of the Czechoslovak state in 1938 and todays Ukraine are indeed striking. Before the German invasion, British companies had participated in the mining and metallurgy industries of Czechoslovakia just as Trump has shown an interest in Ukraines rich mineral resources in recent weeks. Before the German invasion of Czechoslovakia, Josef Goebbels, the Nazi propaganda minister, had played up false accusations of atrocities by the Czechs toward the Sudeten Germans and described Czechoslovakia as a monstrous creation of the Versailles Treaty similar to the way Russian President Vladimir Putin has characterized Ukraine as a false creation of the postCold-War political landscape.

In fact, the ancient kingdom of Bohemia had been a unified entity for a thousand years, and Ukraine, with its capital Kyiv, had been the center of medieval Rus, not Moscow. These historical facts did not prevent Goebbels from presenting the new Czechoslovak state as subject to international Jewification in much the same way that Russia has exploited antisemitic sentiment in Russia toward the Ukrainian-Jewish President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. Putin skillfully manipulated grievances among the Russian-speaking minority in eastern Ukraine to justify his invasion (described euphemistically as a special military operation) just as Hitler encouraged the separatist machinations of the Sudeten Germans led by the Nazi sympathizer Konrad Henlein.

A Perverse Role Reversal

Finally, just as Ukraine has been excluded from negotiations between Trumps United States and Putins Russia, so was the Czechoslovak government absent from the negotiating table at Munich except for a couple of observers who had no negotiating powers. Britain, France, and Germany were essentially redrawing the political map of East-Central Europe. The British government characterized Czechoslovak President Edvard Benes as a bully for failing to grant more concessions to the Sudeten Germans, thereby providing a flimsy justification for the Nazi annexation of the Sudetenland and the subsequent invasion of Czechoslovakia. Similarly, Trump has described Zelenskiy as a dictator in what can only be described as a perverse role reversal that casts Putin as the victim and the Ukrainians as the aggressors.

Following the disastrous meeting between Zelenskiy and Trump in the Oval Office last week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt eerily echoed Chamberlains notorious reference in 1938 to a quarrel in a faraway country between people of whom we nothing with the dismissive statement: We are no longer going to just write blank checks to a war very far away without real lasting peace.

The consequences of Trumps policy of peace at any price are strongly reminiscent of Great Britains appeasement of Hitler in 1938. It will have the similar effect of weakening Americas moral and political standing in the world just as Britain rapidly ceased to be a great power in the postwar era. It will also destabilize Europe by encouraging Putin to be more rather than less aggressive in his desire to resurrect the Soviet empire and expand Russian control of East-Central Europe. War in Europe will be the inevitable result.

Upon Chamberlains return from Munich, Winston Churchill rejoined: You were given the choice between war and dishonor. You chose dishonor, and you will have war. Ironically enough, Trump recently returned to the Oval Office a bust of Churchill which Joe Biden had removed. Perhaps he should have installed a bust of Neville Chamberlain instead.

Alfred Thomas is professor of English at the University of Illinois at Chicago and author of Prague Palimpsest: Writing, Memory, and the City.
This years Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) results have revealed a concerning learning gap among primary school students, Education Minister Dr Michael Dowlath has said.

Speaking at a recognition ceremony for the top five performers in the 2025 SEA yesterday at the ministrys head office in Port of Spain, Dowlath said the data will be analysed for better performance moving forward.
Last Tuesday, Gwynne Dyer headlined his Express column Stupid old men. You could substitute all sorts of adjectives before the words, old men, to describe the characteristics of the cohort that has had the most influence on the world we inhabit. Greedy, self-righteous, racist, arrogant, selfish, a multitude of negative words readily suit the clique.

At first, angrily thinking about the subject of todays column, I was focusing on Caribbean men in leadership positions who have been sleazy lechers, foisting themselves on hapless females and males with impunity.
The Tucson Festival of Books is March 15-16 on the University of Arizona campus. As the third-largest book event in the nation, this free festival attracts over 300 presenting authors and expects 130,000 to 140,000 people to attend.

To help you make the most of the festival, a panel discussion, Navigating the Tucson Festival of Books, is at 6 p.m. Monday, March 10, at the Marshall Auditorium at Tucson Medical Center, 5301 E. Grant Road.

During this free, hour-long session, panelists will discuss:

The layout of the festival

Parking options

New features and changes for this year

Tips for first-time attendees as well as returning festival-goers

How to maximize the use of the festival app

Last-minute volunteer opportunities

As part of the festival tradition, there will be a free raffle for exciting festival swag. And, of course, a Q&A at the end.

The Marshall Auditorium is on the east side of Tucson Medical Center, facing Craycroft Road. Free parking is available in the Catalina Parking Garage, north of the main TMC building.

The Arizona Daily Star and the University of Arizona are named sponsors of the festival, and TMC Health is the presenting sponsor.

The Tucson Festival of Books has donated over $2.3 million to local literacy organizations since 2009.

Go to tucsonfestivalofbooks.org for more information.

Contact Schwitzky friends@tucsonfestivalofbooks.org to learn more about becoming a Friend of the Festival.
PHOENIX  State lawmakers are moving to undo a pending rule meant to provide more humane treatment of laying hens, claiming that stopping it will hold down egg prices.

The measure, already approved by a Senate panel, would strip the Arizona Department of Agriculture of its authority to enact the rule requiring farmers to move to cage-free operations. The rule was supposed to be in effect now but got delayed until 2026 amid concerns of effects on farmers in what has now become a multi-year outbreak of the avian flu.

The legislation from Sen. Shawnna Bolick, R-Phoenix, to overturn the rule before it takes effect would allow hens to be kept all their lives in cages as small as 67 square inches of usable floor space.

The department adopted the rule amid threats that animal rights groups would put the issue directly to voters, and in a way that would force farmers to more quickly change their practices or face criminal penalties. Hickmans Egg Ranch, the states largest producer, gave its blessing to the state rule as a compromise.

Now, however, the industry is lobbying to scrap the rule. If that happens, the same groups whose initiative threat spurred the rule could be back  this time with something less to the industrys liking and which lawmakers could not override.

I cant say exactly what we would do regarding a ballot measure, said Chris Holbein, public policy director for farm animal protection at Humane World for Animals, the group formerly known as the Humane Society of the United States. But he said the organization is committed to getting a regulation enacted.

We will continue to explore all of our options on it, Holbein said.

In 2020, what was then the national Humane Society floated the idea of putting a measure on the ballot to require all eggs sold in Arizona to come from cage-free hens.

The idea so concerned the main farms, including Glenn Hickman, president of the company that bears his family name, that he agreed to a deal: Have the Legislature adopt the standard, but with a delayed effective date.

That measure faltered. But the Department of Agriculture picked up the issue and, with the support of the farmers, adopted its own rule phasing in the change: Go first to 144 square inches and, by the beginning of this year, have all major producers be cage-free, meaning free to walk around inside a barn. It does not mean free-range hens that can go outside.

That then quashed any plans to put the question to voters.

But now the industry is backing away from its agreement to spend the extra money for cage-free barns.

Patrick Bray, lobbyist for the Arizona Farm and Ranch Group, is using the bird flu  and the price of eggs  to tell lawmakers to kill the rule.

Now were in a whole new situation, Bray told the Senate Committee on Regulatory Affairs and Government Efficiency, noting the removal of 30 million birds nationally due to the latest round of avian flu.

We are in a complete deficit of egg-laying hens, he said. That is complicated, Bray said, by the flu spreading into the pullets  chickens younger than one year  that were supposed to replace the egg-laying hens.

So it is going to be quite a while to play catch-up and to get back online and get enough supply in the chain so we can lower prices, he said.

Sam Richard, who lobbies for Humane World for Animals, told lawmakers they should not interfere with the Department of Agricultures effort to implement the rules. He pointed out that the department, showing it is sensitive to any potential effects of the flu on supply and price, has agreed to delay implementation until 2026.

As to the price of eggs, Theres also no direct correlation right now the cost of eggs is because of the restriction on their housing size, Richard said.

Avian flu is a serious epidemic, he continued. And confinement has not yet been proven to have any relevance or correlation.

Bolick, the legislations sponsor, said killing the rule for cage-free eggs will help consumers.

As someone who goes grocery shopping for my household, I have seen the price of a dozen eggs more than double during the past four years, she said in a written statement. While we cant solve the cause of bird flu, we can pass a law for Arizonans to see some relief on their grocery bills, and hopefully, eradicate the daily limits imposed on consumers at grocery stores due to high demand.

Speaking to lawmakers in 2021, Hickman pointed to a 2006 example, when Arizona voters approved a ban on gestation crates for pig and cattle ranchers. He said it was pure luck that his laying hens werent part of that successful initiative. The Department of Agriculture reached the same conclusion in justifying the rule, citing the success of recent animal welfare ballot initiatives in Arizona and elsewhere.

Hickman told lawmakers at the time his company already had been moving into the cage-free market. He said that some clients, including McDonalds and Costco, already were demanding cage-free eggs.

Messages left last week and Monday for Hickman and the company were not returned. But Bray told lawmakers at the most recent hearing that the situation has changed in the face of avian influenza.

Someone like Hickmans would have to take a million more birds off the market as they retrofit these barns, Bray said. And we just dont have the luxury of doing that at this point in time. We want every egg possible on that market to bring down prices.

Bray conceded it was the fear of a successful initiative that led producers like Hickman to accept the less-onerous rule, but said hes less concerned about that now.

The price of eggs was the epicenter of this last (presidential) election, Bray said. If you go to the ballot now, with the price of eggs where theyre at, I think people are going to go, I think weve had enough of that.

Not everyone was convinced that allowing producers to keep hens in 66-square-inch cages will do much to make eggs more affordable. Sen. Mitzi Epstein said there are other options.

One of them is slowing down the growth of retail monopolies who are just raising the prices higgily-giggily, said the Tempe Democrat.

The Department of Agriculture, in adopting the rule  albeit before avian flu  concluded that eliminating cages would add anywhere between a penny and 3.25 cents per egg. Using an estimate of annual per capital consumption of slightly more than 270 eggs a year, that penciled out to somewhere between $2.71 and $8.79 per person.

Farm Action, a national group that targets corporate monopolies, last month asked the Federal Trade Commission and the U.S. Justice Department to investigate egg prices, suggesting that producers were being deliberately slow to replenish flocks to keep profits higher.

It also noted the U.S. Agriculture Department provides payment to farmers who have to destroy birds and eggs.

There also is a bit of history. A federal jury in Illinois two yeas ago ordered $17.7 million in damages for food manufacturers who sued major egg producers over what they said was a conspiracy to limit the price of eggs in the 2000s.

If lawmakers quash the ability of state agriculture regulators to enact and enforce the rule, that effectively would end the efforts of a Tucson restaurants owner to have a judge do the same thing.

Grant Kruger filed suit in 2023 saying the department is exceeding its authority. Krueger said he is affected because of the economic harm to his three restaurants: Union Public House, Reforma Modern Mexican Mezcal + Tequila, and Proof Artisanal Pizza and Pasta. No date has been set for a trial.
Producers have launched a Screen Industry Pledge ahead of the impending Federal Election.

Speaking at the Australian International Documentary Conference yesterday, Screen Producers Australia CEO Matthew Deaner reiterated his call for the Government to ensure a competitive and fair screen framework, which includes lifting the 65-hour cap on documentary for access to the Producer Offset.

There are several anomalies with Australias system of Screen Industry Incentives that are due for updating to recognise the changing nature of our industry, particularly the global competitive pressures affecting the screen production sector, said SPA CEO Matthew Deaner.

One glaring example is the 65-hour cap on documentaries removed in 2021 for scripted content, which we believe should also be removed for documentaries. There is also an anomaly in funding support to prevent feature documentaries from accessing the PDV rebate, which can significantly affect the levels of support these projects receive.

This year, SPA, as part of its recent policy platform launch, is calling on the Government of our next Parliament to give Australian screen stories a fair go and address the creeping imbalance favouring international location work over homegrown screen stories.

We will encourage the whole screen industry to get behind this effort by launching our Screen Industry Pledge today to seek support from all parties and candidates at the coming Federal Election.

Our continuing priority is to secure local content rules for streaming platforms, ensuring Australian stories, including documentaries, remain available to audiences. However, we also need to broaden our commissioning base through additional funding for our national broadcasters and screen agency.

Any additional funding for content on the ABC, SBS or NITV must be contingent on fair commissioning practices and address the increasingly aggressive licensing practices imported from global streamers into our industry, said Deaner.

Another key plank of SPAs 2025 Policy Platform is to build a fair and competitive screen framework that supports local production and maximises opportunities for Australian creators.

Deaner urged AIDC delegates to campaign for the Pledge with their local members.

In developing these priorities, SPA has consulted extensively with its members to ensure our industrys key concerns are front and centre during the upcoming election campaign, Deaner said.

SPAs Policy Platform has three key priorities:
In the 1970s Australian governments under LNP Prime Ministers John Gorton and Billy McMahon relayed perfect images of the country to foreign nations.

Australia was a land of beaches, opportunities, aspiration and relaxation. The long-forgotten Commonwealth Film Unit, later known as Film Australia, was bestowed with the task of filming what amounted to propaganda. Public servants filmed a portrait of Australia seen on screens such as Expo 70 in Japan, with cameras in the hands of white males.

New SBS documentary Australia: An Unofficial History is but one perspective on the 1970s, drawing upon rarely seen clips from the Unit, made available by the National Film and Sound Archive, and narrated by Jacki Weaver.

Weaver was a rising star in the 1970s, winning her first Logie for a Nine telemovie Do I Have to Kill My Child? The subject about post-natal depression would be lucky to get a Nine commission in 2025, I suspect. Weaver recalls being proud of the 1976 film, funded by Film Australia and directed by Donald Crombie.

But early 1970s short films from the Commonwealth Film Unit were much different, with bikini clad girls on the beach turning mens heads, and women in primary colours shopping for casserole pots. Australia. Whats not to love?

Alternative perspectives were seen as fringe opinions but as the doco reveals, renegade filmmakers would begin to borrow the same equipment on weekends to tell the stories they wanted to tell.

Together with new movements in the community, railing against expectations, other voices began being heard.

This included First Nations protests, including the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra caught on film. Filmmaker Ian Dunlop went to Yolongu to invite elders to tell their story in a film on land rights.

There were protests about Australian involvement in the Vietnam War.

The Womens Liberation movement would begin to air views about abortion and domestic violence.

Gay Liberation would see activist Dennis Altman famously appearing on ABCs Monday Conference (ok it wasnt a Film Australia product).

By the time Gough Whitlam swept into power in 1972 on the back of the Its Time campaign, multiculturalism was the buzzword, with Al Grassby becoming Minister for Immigration and ending a White Australia policy. Under Whitlam, the government would also back the Arts and use Film Australia to create empathy around important social topics.

Looking back on these time capsule clips are a range of mostly Gen X and Gen Y commentators including Benjamin Law, Zoe Coombs Marr, Jan Fran and Leila Gurruwiwi. They can barely believe their eyes at the vision they are seeing, and who can blame them?

But there are also veterans who were there including filmmakers Rod Freeman and Deborah Kingsland, former CEO of Film Australia Bruce Moir, legendary activist Gary Foley, Womens Lib author Biff Ward, actor Rachael Maza, and iconic director Phillip Noyce while Historian Michelle Arrow also brings perspective to the narrative.

By the mid 1970s Australia was telling a more layered and more splintered version of who it was.

This begs the question, have we fulfilled the work of those early champions of social change, have we kept the flames brightly burning or gravitated to other concepts?

And heaven forbid, what will they think of the work produced now when they look back on us in 2075?

Australia: An Unofficial History screens 7:30pm Wednesday on SBS.
North China mountain city makes smart autonomous driving choice

Xinhua) 09:06, March 03, 2025

Autonomous driving buses are seen on a street in Yangquan, north China's Shanxi Province, Feb. 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Chen Zhihao)

TAIYUAN, March 1 (Xinhua) -- Taking an autonomous driving bus has now become a habit for a resident surnamed Yue in the city of Yangquan, north China's Shanxi Province. This habit has developed despite her initial concerns about the safety of such a vehicle.

Tucked away in the Taihang Mountains, the smallest city in Shanxi has embraced various types of autonomous driving transportation tools, including buses, taxis and logistics vehicles.

Autonomous driving technology, an outstanding achievement in the field of artificial intelligence, is rapidly changing China's transportation landscape, with frequent technological breakthroughs and increasing application scenarios.

The complex landscape of Yangquan, featuring the likes of mountains, hills and basins, provides diverse application test scenarios for autonomous driving technology.

According to Wang Yifei from the city's statistics bureau, Yangquan has already attracted many enterprises involved in the fields of autonomous driving solutions, travel service platforms and low-speed unmanned vehicle operations.

"Currently, we have implemented autonomous driving technology in various scenarios in Yangquan, such as taxi services, courier deliveries and security patrols, providing convenient and safe travel services and effectively improving logistics efficiency and reducing operating costs," said Shi Qinjun, project operations manager with the Vehicle-city Network of Yangquan Digital Technology Group.

"Meanwhile, we are actively expanding data resources to build smart transportation and a smart city," Shi added.

China's State Council and ministries have over the years issued policies to strengthen research and development concerning intelligent connected vehicles, promote their industrialization, and accelerate commercial application of autonomous driving technology in specific scenarios.

Various regions in China have since actively conducted autonomous driving road tests, while demonstration zones have been set up in cities like Beijing, south China's Shenzhen and central China's Wuhan, achieving significant results.

As of November 2024, more than 50 cities in China had approved similar projects -- achieving a combined 32,000 kilometers of open test roads and the intelligent road transformation of approximately 10,000 kilometers.

According to the Yangquan city government, the application of autonomous driving technology has not only brought economic and social benefits to the city but also provided new ideas and methods for urban governance.

By building a vehicle-road coordination system, Yangquan can achieve real-time monitoring and intelligent regulation of traffic conditions, effectively alleviating traffic congestion and improving road safety.

At the same time, autonomous driving technology can be integrated with the urban management platform, providing data support and decision-making assistance for urban management.

"In the future, Yangquan will actively explore the application of autonomous driving technology in more scenarios, such as smart sanitation and smart security, to provide citizens with more intelligent and convenient urban services," said Wang.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
The Australian Film Television and Radio School has named filmmaker and actress Mia Wasikowska as its 2025 Artist-in-Residence.

Now in its third year, the AFTRS Artist-in-Residence program invites storytellers to spend time at the School to reflect on and test their craft, and share those insights with students.

Wasikowska said she planned to collaborate with the AFTRS community on a feature film and documentary.

I am thrilled to be the recipient of the AFTRS Artist-in-Residence 2025, she said.

Its a privilege and an honour to have the support of such a wonderful school, as I look to develop two creative projects over the coming year.

As social beings, we thrive in connection. Im therefore excited to engage with students and staff as I firmly believe creativity flourishes when shared. I look forward to contributing to the vibrant creative community at AFTRS.

AFTRS Head of Research, Dr Alejandra Canales, who manages the program, said, This program is an essential part of what AFTRS does, fostering experimentation, creative enquiry, reflection and innovation within our screen and audio industries, enabling AFTRS to work with high-calibre industry professionals and draw on their expertise and knowledge to create and share meaningful stories that are so important for us.

We are excited for this opportunity to collaborate with Mia this year, to provide the space for her to reflect on her creative practice and to continue to give our students and the AFTRS community exposure to a wide range of artists and their processes.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank (outgoing Artist-in-Residence) Tracey Rigney for her generous contribution in 2024, which not only provided positive learning opportunities for AFTRS students, but which also had a profound impact on Traceys work and life.

Filmmaker and writer Tracey Rigney, AFTRS second Artist-in-Residence, handed over the Artist-in-Residency to Mia at the annual research lecture Reflecting on Dreams of Possible Futures at AFTRS on Thursday.

As part of the residency with AFTRS, I have been fortunate enough to play with my mothers language Wergaia and experiment with sound design, she said.

Its been a blessing to go out bush and record the natural sounds of nature and incorporate this with sound effects and language. I have had an epiphany where I now know, for my debut drama feature, that I will voice my mothers language.

It has been an empowering and deeply spiritual experience for me personally as well as professionally. Alongside this I have had the wonderful opportunity to connect with the students and staff of the school. It has been very rewarding for me, and I cant speak highly enough of this opportunity. Simply, thank you AFTRS!

As an award-winning actress, Mia has worked with some of the most celebrated filmmakers in the world, including Tim Burton (Alice in Wonderland), Jim Jarmush (Only Lovers Left Alive), Guillermo Del Toro (Crimson Peak), Gus Van Sant (Restless), Lisa Cholodenko (The Kids Are All Right), David Cronenberg (Maps to the Stars) and AFTRS alum Robert Connolly (Blueback).

She made her writing and directing debut with Long, Clear View, a segment of The Turning anthology film, based on Tim Wintons novel, which was nominated for an AACTA Award in 2013. She followed this with Afterbirth, a segment of Madly, an international anthology of short films featuring innovative love stories, which premiered at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival.

With this wealth of writing, acting and directing experience, Mias knowledge and expertise will be a huge asset to AFTRS, where she will have access to world-class facilities and passionate students and staff.
For the fifth year in a row, Seven West Media is partnering with UN Women Australia as the official Australian broadcast partner for International Womens Day.

The theme of this years IWD on Saturday 8 March is March Forward: For All Women and Girls.

Seven West Media is staging a special staff event  Women Breaking Barriers  with Australian Idol icon Marcia Hines, hosted by The Morning Shows Kylie Gillies.

It is also running a Women and Super webinar for all staff, with individual follow-up sessions.

This Friday (March 7), 7NEWS presenters are also hosting UN Womens IWD events around the country, including Mel McLaughlin in Sydney, Melina Sarris in Melbourne, Tina Altieri in Perth and Katrina Blowers in Brisbane.

Seven West Media Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Howard, said: We are proud to again partner with UN Women Australia to celebrate IWD, a global day day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women  and a day that also marks a call to action for accelerating gender equality.

Gender equality is a key focus area for Seven and one we will continue working on. We have made good progress in this area in recent years but, like most companies, we can always do better. And we will.

Seven West Media Chief People and Culture Officer, Lucinda Gemmell, said: The theme of this years IWD  March Forward: For All Women and Girls  perfectly reflects the work we are doing.

We have made significant progress in achieving gender equality in our business, but we are not finished. Across Seven West Media, we have introduced a range of initiatives and programs in this area, with more to come.

Our partnership with UN Women Australia as the official Australian broadcast partner for IWD is something we are honoured to do; more importantly, it is something that can help effect real change that benefits everyone.

Simone Clarke, Chief Executive Officer of UN Women Australia, said: We are grateful to Seven West Media for their support this International Womens Day. As we mark 30 years since the Beijing Platform for Action, this partnership helps shine a spotlight on the progress made and the work still to be done. Through this collaboration, we can inspire Australians to March Forward and take action for a future where women and girls are safe, equal, and empowered.
Sundays new episode of The Hunters with investigative journalist Adam Shand and former detective Steve Van Aperen delves into cold cases along Queenslands Flinders Highway, where more than 12 people were murdered or vanished between 1970 and 2018.

This features key insights from retired Queensland Police Detective Seargent Mick Gurn, retired Queensland Police Officer Brian Beveridge and forensic archaeologist Dr Louise Steding.

The Flinders Highway, an 800 kilometre stretch of road through Queenslands outback, has a dark and chilling history spanning over 50 years, with more than 12 people vanishing or being murdered between 1970 and 2018  yet only one case has been solved.

In the gripping new investigation on The Hunters, airing this Sunday on Seven and 7plus, investigative journalist Adam Shand and former detective Steve Van Aperen embark on a road trip along this notorious highway of death. They revisit haunting cold cases, probing unsolved murders and disappearances, to uncover whether this isolated outback highway was a killing ground for Australias most notorious serial killers.

The duo delves into three haunting cases, including the brutal murders of the Mackay sisters and Catherine Graham; the remains of all of them were discovered in Anthill Creek. They also investigate the disappearance of two young hitchhikers, Anita Cunningham and Robin Hoinville-Bartram, who vanished in 1972.

In July 1972, Anita and Robin set off from Melbourne to hitchhike to the latters mothers house in Bowen, a journey they would never complete. Months later, Robins remains were discovered in Sensible Creek, under a bridge on the Flinders Highway. The fate of Anita remains unknown to this day.

The Hunters explores the landscape, profiles potential predators, and examines possible links between the crimes. Is this the work of one killer or multiple killers?

Adam and Steve test claims that the crimes may have been committed by some of Australias most infamous figures like Ivan Milat, convicted Whiskey Au Go Go murderer John Andrew Stuart and alleged child killer Arthur Stanley Brown. They also interview key witnesses and sources who possess crucial knowledge of these decades-old cold cases.

In a powerful moment, the team takes Anitas brother, David Cunningham, to the site where his sisters remains may be found after vanishing 50 years ago.

For the first time ever, the investigation reveals an eyewitness who spoke to Anita and Robin before their disappearance  and may have witnessed their final moments.

8:40pm (ish) Sunday on Seven.
Jim and Margaret Perkins, longtime friends of Tyler Junior College, were honored during Thursdays TJC Board of Trustees meeting for their recent gift of property in their hometown of Rusk.

The Perkins name is associated with paying it forward, and we truly appreciate and celebrate all that they do on behalf of others, said Dr. Juan E. Mejia, President and CEO of TJC. The colleges master plan encompasses our entire service area, and very important to our work is how we better serve the southernmost part of our region, specifically Rusk and Jacksonville, and their surrounding areas. Communities need champions, and the Perkins family came forward and gifted the property to the TJC Foundation, and today that is being transferred to the Tyler Junior College District.







Located on the downtown square in Rusk, the 6,700-square-foot building on S. Henderson Street is known by many as the train building, as it features a mural of the historic Texas State Railroad, a 25-mile heritage railroad that runs between Rusk and Palestine.

Mejia also highlighted the Perkins many contributions to TJC, including their statewide recognition in 2023 through the Texas Higher Education Distinguished Service Award, when leaders from public and private institutions of higher learning recognized their positive impact to the entire state. Presidents, chancellors and leaders of more than 100 Texas higher education institutions honored the Perkins, co-nominating the couple for the award by Tyler Junior College and Stephen F. Austin State University. The nomination referred to their establishment in 2006 of the James I. Perkins Family Foundation, which was created to support students, institutions of higher education, and the communities in East Texas.

Also present at the TJC board meeting was Tom Seale, TJC Foundation board chair, who provided leadership through the acceptance of the gift and who, along with the foundation board officers, identified the perfect alignment to the institutions master plan.

Mejia added that this very generous gift will accelerate efforts toward a comprehensive community/learning center that will be focused on making available workforce and academic programs, in addition to key learning opportunities for members of the surrounding communities.

Jim and Margaret Perkins have a legacy of partnering with TJC, said Mitch Andrews, TJC vice president for institutional advancement. We share in their vision of reaching more students in the region with educational opportunities. Their donation of a building and land in the community of Rusk will help TJC impact more East Texas students. We applaud them for their leadership and generosity.

The Perkins are well-known figures who are often recognized for their significant contributions to the community and business sector. They have built a successful career in various business ventures and are active supporters of local initiatives, focusing on education, economic development, and philanthropy. Their dedication to community service and leadership has made them respected members of the East Texas community.

When you receive an honor like this, the best thing about it is to be around people who work hard and embrace our efforts to make our communities stronger and stronger, said Jim Perkins. Ive said before that, to me, Tyler Junior College is the best junior college in the United States.

I thank the TJC Board, the TJC Foundation, and the College community for their steadfast commitment to Rusk. Were going to stay fully behind it and ensure that TJC continues to be a leader in meeting the needs of our communities.

Over the years, the Perkins family has generously supported the Tyler Junior College Foundation, SFAs College of Education, The University of Texas at Tyler, UT Austins Law School, and East Texas Baptist University.

In 2014, the Perkins collaborated with TJC and created a scholarship program for local high school graduates that has grown into the TJC Promise now serving six communities in the East Texas region.

Mrs. Perkins is a former junior high and high school English and history teacher. She also served as a librarian, substitute teacher, and member of the Rusk ISD board and is a bank director. Mr. Perkins, a former SFA Regent Chairman, is president and chairman of the board of Citizens 1st Bank-Tyler, and a practicing attorney. They both have received the T.B. Butler Award as Outstanding Citizens, Tyler Junior Colleges Black and Gold Award, and the UT Tyler Galaxy Award. The couple serve on and are supporters of various boards and nonprofits in East Texas.
During the second meeting of the International Council for the Day of Vesak (ICDV) and the Viet Nam Buddhist Sangha on February 26, important preparations for Vesak 2025 were discussed. The meeting was chaired by Most Venerable Thich Thien Nhon - President of the VBS Executive Council, Head of the Organising Committee and Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit, President of ICDV.

Delegates agreed on various aspects of the UN Vesak 2025 programme, scheduled to take place from May 6 to 8, along with side events featuring international delegates. According to the plan, the first day will welcome leaders of Buddhist sanghas from different countries. The second day will feature a series of group seminars on five key subtopics, engaging scholars, particularly young researchers. On the third day, the closing ceremony will be held in the morning. In the afternoon, delegates and venerable monks will travel to Ba en Mountain in Tay Ninh.

At the summit of Ba en Mountain, a solemn candlelight prayer ceremony for world peace will be held, with the participation of over 2,000 Vesak delegates from 80 countries and territories. This event is considered a profoundly meaningful activity aligned with the theme of Vesak 2025 Unity and Inclusivity for Human Dignity: Buddhist Insights for World Peace and Sustainable Development.

Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit said that this years programme encompasses various contents, with peace being one of the most prominent. It can be understood as peace of mind, a fundamental foundation for social stability, global harmony and the finding of peace in nature and the environment.

With Ba en Mountain, I can feel the essence of 'peace' through the Buddhist spirit and the presence of the Maitreya Bodhisattva statue, a symbol of joy and serenity. This sacred mountain allows one to immerse in nature, share tranquillity with others and spread the spirit and message of world peace in practice," Most Venerable Phra Brahmapundit shared.

The President of ICDV also highlighted that this is not merely an abstract idea but a concrete example of how we can live in peace while developing the economy, without destroying the environment or causing harm to others. This is why a sacred spiritual destination filled with positive energy like Ba en Mountain will serve as a place where individuals can seek healing and tranquillity.

As part of the second discussion meeting on Vesak 2025, representatives from the Ba en Mountain tourist area reported on preparations for the candlelight prayer ceremony for world peace.

"Hosting the Vesak 2025 delegation for the world peace candlelight prayer ceremony is a tremendous honour for the Ba en Mountain tourist area.

On May 8, we will also hold special ceremonies to welcome the delegation during this grand Buddhist event, including a bodhi tree planting ceremony and the enshrinement of Buddha relics for Buddhists and the public to pay homage," Nguyen Lam Nhi Thuy, Deputy General Director of Sun Group in the Southern region, said.

Paying homage to the Buddha's relics during the Vesak festival is one of the most spiritually significant rituals, allowing Buddhist followers and the public to receive the Buddhas blessings. Ba en Mountain is one of the few places in Viet Nam that preserves the Buddhas relics, which were bestowed by the World Fellowship of Buddhists at Bodh Gaya, India, in 2014.

As part of the Vesak 2025 celebrations, the Vietnamese government has also considered approving the VBS to organise a procession of the Buddhas relics from India and receive the heart relic of Bodhisattva Thich Quang uc for enshrinement.

Scheduled from May 6 to 8, the UN Day of Vesak 2025 is one of the most significant international cultural events, honouring humanistic values and global peace. Viet Nam is expected to welcome about 2,000 delegates from 80 countries and territories, including UN officials, heads of state, supreme Buddhist leaders, presidents of Buddhist organisations and numerous scholars and intellectuals worldwide.
HA NOI  Authorities with potential responsibility for digital assets are stepping up moves for the development of a legal corridor where they will be covered.

Under the Governments Resolution No. 27/NQ-CP issued recently, the Government has directed the Ministry of Finance to preside over and coordinate with agencies and localities to urgently complete proposals to develop legal regulations on digital assets.

The Ministry of Planning and Investment also sought comments on a draft resolution of the National Assembly on the building of a regional and international financial centre in Viet Nam. The draft resolution mentions a sandbox policy for business models applying technology in the financial sector (fintech), including crypto assets and cryptocurrencies.

Accordingly, the competent management and operation agency of the financial centre has the authority to licence, manage, assess the impact and manage risks for the sandbox in fintech activities, including trading exchanges for crypto assets and cryptocurrencies. Transactions using crypto assets and cryptocurrencies in the financial centre will be implemented from July 1, 2026.

A draft Law on Digital Technology Industry, which is open for public comments by the Ministry of Information and Communications, also introduces the concept of digital assets for the first time. Accordingly, the ministry proposes to introduce the concept of digital assets as a type of digital technology product and assign the Ministry of Finance to preside over and coordinate with competent ministries and branches to issue or develop and submit to competent authorities to issue regulations on the management of digital assets and service providers of the assets.

According to a report of blockchain data platform Chainalysis, by 2024, Viet Nam ranked fifth in the world in terms of interest in digital assets, third globally in terms of using international trading platforms, and sixth in terms of trading volume on decentralised platforms. The report shows there are currently 17 million Vietnamese people who have digital assets and the total value of the market exceeds US$100 billion. Unofficial digital asset trading is creating a huge underground economy.

Chairman of the Digital Assets - Fintech Committee under the Vietnam Blockchain Association,Tran Huyen Dinh, said Viet Nam has a great opportunity to take advantage of revenue from digital asset transactions. If the personal income tax rate of 0.1 per cent is applied for digital asset transactions like securities transactions, Viet Nam can collect more than $800 million in taxes from digital asset transactions each year.

In addition, digital asset trading platforms often apply a fee of 0.01-0.8 per cent per transaction. This not only brings economic benefits, but also creates conditions for monitoring and regulating the market and protecting investors from risks.

According to inh, a clear legal framework is needed to ensure the rights of users in digital asset transactions, from identity verification (KYC) to personal data protection and dispute resolution. Currently, in a market that lacks legal regulations, users are at risk of being scammed or losing their assets. Legalising digital assets not only helps people feel secure when participating in transactions, but also strengthens their trust in blockchain technology and related applications.

Chairman of the board of directors of Saigon Securities Incorporation, Nguyen Duy Hung, said that the ten largest exchanges in the world all acknowledged that Viet Nam ranks in the list of the worlds four largest trading markets in terms of transaction volume. However, Viet Nam had not have a legal framework to help businesses and investors feel secure, create conditions for development, and at the same time avoid being scammed in cyberspace.

Viet Nam needed a transparent legal framework for digital assets so that developers and investors of the assets would be protected transparently and no one could profit from tricks in the market. The Government should support the development of business and entrepreneur groups in this field.

Lawyer Pham Ba o, who is a director of SJKLAW Law Firm, said that the lack and incompleteness of the legal framework to regulate activities related to virtual assets, cryptocurrencies and transactions in the digital environment had created a fertile environment for fraudulent activities to develop.

According to o, it is necessary to urgently build a clear legal framework for virtual currencies and virtual assets. Specifically, the legal framework needs to clearly define virtual currencies and virtual assets, and recognise that virtual currencies can be traded and paid for in certain areas, but are not legal means of payment in all commercial transactions.

Besides, the legal framework must regulate the registration, licensing and management of virtual currency exchanges, because currently, virtual currency issuing organisations are not fully controlled, which causes the issuance of virtual currencies without collateral or real value, creating opportunities for scammers. BIZHUB/VNS
KIEN GIANG  The southern province of Kien Giang aims to develop key farming areas and increase the export of high-quality agricultural products by granting farming codes, said the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Farming codes are designed to enhance traceability and facilitate agricultural exports.

The province has issued 590 farming codes, 165 of which have been certified by the Plant Protection Department for export to the EU, China, Japan, and Malaysia, to name a few.

The codes have been assigned to 16 crops, covering 21,446 hectares of the provinces total farming area.

These crops include rice, mango, pineapple, coconut, sweet potato, taro, jackfruit, durian, pomelo, rose myrtle, mangosteen, ginger, pepper, cucumber, and honeydew melon.

The implementation of farming codes is expected to drive the provinces agricultural sector forward and maximise its resources, according to provincial authorities.

Farmers have received training in crop management, planting techniques, pest control, safe pesticide use, food sanitation, and product preservation and distribution, said the head of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

They have abandoned outdated farming methods and actively adopted technology to produce high-quality, traceable products that meet the strict requirements of foreign markets and generate higher economic value.

Production facilities are also requested to strictly adhere to GAP standards and implement modern techniques to meet export requirements.

Le Huu Toan, director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, said Kien Giang planned to establish farming area codes for more crops to pave the way for local production and exports.

He said the province would inform farmers about the benefits of receiving farming codes and provide training for agricultural management officers.

Regarding Kien Giangs policy to develop key farming areas, it had requested farms to comply with organic practices and GAP standards and instructed them on how to safely use pesticides, he added.

Toan asked authorities to increase inspections and oversight to ensure farms comply with regulations regarding plant type, pesticide usage, pest control, and product outputs.

Kien Giang authorities aim to enhance cooperation with enterprises to invest in cutting-edge equipment and infrastructure for packaging facilities.

In 2025, the province aims to produce 301,650 tonnes of vegetables and 248,950 tonnes of industrial crops and fruits.

It will also expand key crops such as pepper, rose myrtle, pineapple, banana, mango, durian, passion fruit, and medicinal herbs.

Kien Giang will develop its central planting areas while simultaneously building modern rural areas to maximise local resources.

It will establish more specialised farming areas and agricultural production centres.

It will also improve production practices to be more flexible and better adapt to climate change.

Provincial authorities said they would introduce farmers to new, high-quality plant seeds that offer higher economic value and encourage the application of technology and sustainable practices.

They will also implement timely preventive measures against pests and improve the capacity to survey and forecast plant diseases.  VNS
HA NOI  The Vietnamese stock market had a noteworthy week, successfully surpassing the 1,300-point mark with strong liquidity.

A notable shift in cash flow was observed as investors flocked to steel stocks, anticipating the impending anti-dumping tariffs on imported steel. As a result, several industry leaders such as TLH, NKG, HSG, VGS, and SMC posted strong gains.

This marks the sixth consecutive week of gains for the market, with the VN-Index rising 8.61 points (0.66 per cent) to close at 1,305.36 points. Trading volume on HoSE increased by 13.1 per cent compared to the previous week, while the HNX-Index also gained 1.62 points (0.6 per cent), closing at 239.19 points.

Foreign capital continued to flow out aggressively, with a notable spike in net selling towards the end of the week. Over five trading sessions, foreign investors net sold VN2.7 trillion (US$105.7 million) across the market.

According to inh Quang Hinh, Head of Macroeconomics and Market Strategy at VNDIRECT Securities, the key theme of the past week (February 24-28) was the rapid sector rotation.

Market gains were supported by various sector-specific narratives, including anti-dumping measures in the steel industry, legal clearance for select real estate projects, and expectations for the upcoming launch of the KRX trading system.

These factors helped sustain the markets upward momentum despite profit-taking pressures and global market volatility.

An important development last week was US President Donald Trumps threat to impose new tariffs on European imports, reaffirming tariff hikes on Mexico and Canada, scheduled for March 4, and introducing an additional 10 per cent tariff on Chinese goods.

Although Viet Nam remains outside the list of countries targeted by US tariffs, investors should still consider risk management strategies to hedge against any potential future implications.

According to Hinh, the VN-Index is likely to retest the 1,300-point mark in early March, with short-term market direction dependent on how this level holds up. If VN-Index maintains its position above 1,300 points, the uptrend could remain intact, paving the way for further gains towards 1,320-1,340 points.

Conversely, if it fails to hold above 1,300 points, the market could see a correction back to the 1,280-point support level. Given these scenarios, investors should prepare for both possibilities by managing leverage prudently, taking profits in stocks that have surged into overbought territory, and reallocating funds to mid-cap stocks in promising sectors such as energy, residential real estate and exports.

Analysts from Nhat Viet Securities (VFS) observed that February was a strong month for the VN-Index, with a consistent uptrend throughout. By the end of February, the VN-Index had gained 40.32 points (3.19 per cent), marking its seventh attempt at breaking the 1,300-point level. However, this time, buyers demonstrated stronger commitment than in previous instances.

Despite heavy profit-taking, demand absorption remained strong, allowing the index to close at 1,305.36 points. This marked the largest gain at the 1,300-point resistance level since early 2024.

Even though foreign investors continued to sell aggressively, domestic capital has emerged as a key driver for the market.

In the short term, VFS expects the VN-Index to continue trading around the 1,300-point level, with gradually easing selling pressure. If this scenario plays out, investors can use mild pullbacks as opportunities to restructure portfolios or increase stock holdings.

With strong domestic liquidity and improving investor sentiment, the market remains well-positioned for potential further gains, provided the 1,300-point level is firmly established as a support zone.  VNS
HAI PHONG  With the philosophy that investors' success is its success, the northern port city of Hai Phong has been fostering a favourable investment environment while also developing social and cultural elements that make the northern port city feel like home for foreign investors and experts.

Currently, Hai Phong hosts over 1,000 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects from investors across 40 countries and territories. The city is home to approximately 5,000 people from the RoK, along with residents from Japan, China, Belgium, the Netherlands, and other nations.

Bruno Jaspaert, CEO of the Deep C Industrial Zones, has spent over seven years living and working in Hai Phong. Despite being born and raised in Belgium, he proudly considers himself a local resident fully embracing life in the port city.

Driven by his affection, Jaspaert introduced the Belgian Culture and Culinary Festival (B.Fest) to Hai Phong, strengthening ties between Viet Nam and Belgium. Meanwhile, Deep C, a pioneering industrial park embracing eco-friendly and sustainable development, has been actively contributing to the citys economic and social progress.

Other foreign investors also praise Hai Phong for its convenient transport, good healthcare and education services, and stable business environment, making it an ideal place to live and work.

Ogata Haruhisa, General Director of Kyocera Document Technology Vietnam Company Limited, based in the Viet Nam Singapore Industrial Park (VSIP) in Thuy Nguyen district, highlighted the stable investment climate of Viet Nam and Hai Phong. He also announced that Kyocera sees value in shifting its manufacturing operations to Viet Nam.

According to Le Trung Kien, Head of the Hai Phong Economic Zone Authority (HEZA), the city is considering granting honorary citizenship to investors, allowing them to enjoy exclusive incentives. This initiative is currently being piloted for the Republic of Korea (RoK)s SK Group experts, who already benefit from priority lanes at the city-based Cat Bi International Airport.

Since late 2024, FDI enterprises in Hai Phongs industrial parks, who established their Party cells, have displayed plaques featuring the Vietnamese national flag, the Communist Party of Viet Nams flag, and content on their commitment to national development and workers' rights.

Additionally, the HEZA, in collaboration with the municipal Military Command, has set up 23 self-defence teams within enterprises across local industrial and economic zones. These teams play a crucial role in ensuring security and order, reinforcing Hai Phongs position as a model city for national defence and military cooperation.

Tran Kim Phuong, HR Director and Secretary of the Party Cell at Jasan Vietnam Co Ltd  a Hong Kong-invested company at VSIP Thuy Nguyen with 3,200 employees, underscored the importance of the in-house military command units. They help address security issues in real-time, reducing dependence on external law enforcement forces.

Last year, Hai Phong saw the establishment of the Viet Nam-China and the Viet Nam-RoK business clubs, aiming to strengthen cooperation between Vietnamese enterprises and their Chinese and South Korean counterparts. According to recent figures, Chinese investors (excluding those from Taiwan and Hong Kong) currently operate 245 projects in the port city, generating an average annual export revenue of US$3.85 billion. Meanwhile, the RoK ranks first in investment capital ($14.1 billion) and second in project numbers (185 projects) among the 40 countries and territories investing Hai Phong.  VNS
HCM CITY  Amidst the global trend of sustainable development and responsible business, it has become critical for enterprises to incorporate environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices into their operations to better integrate with the world market and gain a competitive edge, a workshop has heard in HCM City.

At How to Integrate ESG into Business Strategy: Best Practices from Singapore held last Saturday by VIETSTAR Institute of Management (VIETSTAR) and Singapore Management University (SMU), Boon Hoe Ooi, former CEO of Singapore's Jurong Port, said embracing ESG is an inevitable requirement.

Companies that effectively implement ESG practices adapt more quickly to changing market and environmental conditions and attract more partners, he said.

He shared key insights to help businesses understand core principles, challenges and practical lessons in ESG implementation and provided strategic planning methods and ESG applications in key industries such as energy, transportation, logistics, agriculture, and finance.

He also mentioned the hurdles to implementing ESG practices.

For businesses, shifting investment towards ESG comes with significant costs, and while some industries have clear ESG standards, others lack established guidelines, he said.

He stressed the need for a standardised ESG framework that businesses can adopt.

To achieve this, Government involvement is crucial in refining policies and providing financial support to help businesses integrate ESG practices, he added.

Pham Thi Thu Hang, CEO of VIETSTAR, said, to support Vietnamese businesses in implementing ESG, her company tied up with SMU in 2022 and has organised a series of initiatives, including workshops on ESG implementation strategies for businesses, the ASEAN Fellowships in Energy Sustainability and co-hosted the Viet Nam-Singapore Business Forum (VSBF).

The VSBF has brought together leading regional speakers and researchers to develop a set of practical governance principles, helping Vietnamese businesses define sustainable strategies, leverage opportunities, and implement ESG initiatives effectively.

While the workshop provides strategic insights, the ASEAN Fellowships in Energy Sustainability Programme is designed to enhance the expertise of leaders and managers, particularly in the energy sector, a key industry for regional sustainable development, she said.

The programme focuses on analytical skills and effective decision-making tools for energy transition, and is hosted in pioneering green energy countries such as Singapore, South Korea, and Viet Nam, with participation from global experts and support from major energy corporations like SK Group, Sembcorp Industries and GE Vernova, she added.

Launch of 2025 VSBF

On the sidelines of the workshop, VIETSTAR and SMU announced the launch of this years VSBF.

With the theme "Charting ASEANs Sustainability Future: Green Business Opportunities in a Surging Net-Zero World," VSBF 2025 takes place amid Viet Nams ongoing governance streamlining and reform efforts.

Hang, who is also director of VSBF, said VSBF 2025 would focus on successful case studies, best sustainability practices, frameworks for integrating sustainability into corporate governance, and cross-border sustainability dialogues.

VSBF 2025 will emphasise sustainable transitions across multiple sectors and inspire leaders to continue striving for excellence and innovation.

A key highlight of this years forum is the Cross-Border Sustainability Dialogue: How to Build an Innovation Ecosystem to Accelerate Sustainable Transformation.

Speakers from the World Economic Forum, South Korea and Singapore will discuss innovation ecosystems in agriculture, urban development, logistics, and more, while providing governance and ecosystem management recommendations.

VSBF 2025 is expected to gather over 200 scholars, board members, C-suite executives, senior managers, and consultants from Singapore, South Korea, France, the US, and Viet Nam.  VNS
HAI PHONG The inauguration of the new five-star Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel marks a significant milestone for the port city, with high hopes of boosting tourism, driving economic growth, Deputy Chairman of the People's Committee of Hai Phong City, Le Anh Quan emphasised at the hotels grand opening ceremony.

The Deputy Chairman stressed that the hotel, which is the latest flagship hotel in northern Viet Nam of the brand Pullman Hotels and Resorts will play a pivotal role in enhancing the city's tourism services. The hotel will provide a foundation to attract tourism types that combine with conferences and seminars, at the same time it will serve as a venue for international events, positioning Hai Phong as a premier destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.

Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel, the latest flagship property in Northern Viet Nam under the esteemed brand, is designed for global visionaries and city residents, offering spaces where productivity, leisure and inspiration come together effortlessly.

Located in the commercial and cultural heart of Hai Phong, the hotel overlooks the serene Cam River and the bustling Hoang Dieu Harbour. Its bold facade, featuring metallic design elements, reflects Hai Phongs dynamic spirit. Inside, traditional Asian influences are showcased through enriching aesthetics, with guardian lions, ancient trees and East Asian ink paintings.

The hotel features 364 rooms and suites, accommodating the diverse needs of modern travellers  from smart and comfortable superior rooms to spacious one-bedroom apartments designed for extended stays.

Vice President Operations Vietnam at Accor Xavier Cappelut  the operator of the Pullman brand  emphasised that the Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel is primarily focused on developing MICE tourism.

He noted that the port city possesses all the essential elements for tourism development. Just two hours of travel from Ha Noi, Hai Phong's strategic location is crucial for economic growth. Additionally, as the largest port city in the country, Hai Phong's economy has rapidly and robustly developed in recent years, attracting many large domestic and foreign companies.

The hotel offers a fresh take on meetings and events with Pullman's innovative Meet and Play concept, which includes eight versatile spaces. The expansive, pillarless grand ballroom, spanning over 1,200 square metres, is one of the largest in Hai Phong and can accommodate more than 1,000 guests. Equipped with advanced technology, such as giant LED screens and conference cameras, the venue ensures smooth and impactful gatherings, fostering an environment that promotes collaboration and creativity.

"With excellent facilities for organising events, Pullman Hai Phong will strive to meet the needs of hosting large-scale events in the city," said Cappelut.

The Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel offers a diverse dining scene with venues designed for both connection and discovery. The Up & Above Rooftop Bar provides a high-energy social space with panoramic city views, Asian-inspired tapas, handcrafted cocktails and a live DJ.

The Mad Cow Wine & Grill presents a modern steakhouse experience with premium cuts, fresh seafood and curated wine selections on an open-air terrace. Red Flowers Pavilion specialises in Cantonese dishes and creative takes on classic recipes. Food Connexion, the hotel's all-day dining restaurant, features live show kitchens serving Hai Phong delicacies and Mediterranean classics.

The Chief Operating Officer of Accors Premium, Midscale and Economy Division in Asia, Garth Simmons said: Hai Phong is emerging as a key destination in Viet Nams tourism and economic landscape, offering immense potential as a gateway for business and leisure in northern Viet Nam. With the opening of Pullman Hai Phong Grand Hotel, we are proud to strengthen the country's hospitality landscape and contribute to its dynamic growth while inspiring the future of premium hospitality experiences. VNS
HA NOI  The proposals on merging provinces and abolishing the district-level authorities must be submitted to the Party Central Committee before April 7, the Politburo and the Secretariat said in the latest plan.

In Conclusion No. 127 issued last week, the Politburo and the Secretariat asked the Party Committee of the Government to work with the Party Central Committee's Organisation Commission, the Party Committee of the National Assembly, the Party Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and relevant agencies to prepare proposals on the merger of certain provincial administrative units, the abolition of the district level, and the continued merger of commune-level administrative units.

It aims to implement a two-tier local governance model to ensure streamlined, efficient, and effective operations.

In addition to criteria like population size and area, provincial merging must carefully consider the national master plan, regional plans, local plans, socio-economic development strategies, sector development, spatial expansion, comparative advantages and development demands of each locality in the new era.

Commune-level reorganisation must identify local government models for urban, rural, mountainous, plain and island areas as needed, considering population size, area, history, culture, socio-economic issues, national defence, security, ethnicity, and religion.

The Politburo and Secretariat have tasked the Party Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front and central-level mass organisations to lead a comprehensive review of functions, tasks, and organisational structures of the provinces' and districts' affiliated agencies and organisations, especially media outlets, to ensure unified management and maximum streamlining, keeping only truly essential units.

The Politburo and Secretariat have also assigned the Central Organisation Commission to lead the research and development of a proposal on the local Party organisational system (at the provincial and commune levels). This will focus on synchronised models matching local government structures and strengthening grassroots Party organisations. This proposal must be reported to the Politburo no later than March 12.

The district-level court and procuracy systems will be abolished following the restructuring plan. The abolishing plan must be reported to the Politburo for guidance before seeking feedback from Party committees and organisations no later than March 9.

The Party Committee of the National Assembly is tasked, in coordination with the Governments Party Committee, to direct research on amending certain articles of the Constitution, specifically regarding the political system's organisational structure. This must be reported to the Politburo in early March 2025 and submitted to the Central Committee by April 7, 2025. Finalisation of these constitutional amendments by the National Assembly is set for no later than June 30, 2025.

The Party Committees of the Government and National Assembly will research and propose amendments to laws such as the Law on Local Government Organisation, Law on Cadres and Civil Servants, Law on Inspection, Law on Planning, Law on Elections of National Assembly and People's Council Deputies, Law on Promulgation of Legal Normative Documents, Law on Organisation of the Peoples Court, Law on Organisation of the Peoples Procuracy and other related laws.

Decrees and regulations on mechanisms and policies for cadres, civil servants, public employees, and workers affected by local administrative reorganisation will also be developed.

These tasks must follow the overall timeline and be completed no later than June 30.

The Politburo and Secretariat have ordered the temporary suspension of commune- and district-level Party congresses. After the 11th Plenum of the Party Central Committee, the Politburo will issue specific directives and guidance on this matter.

As part of the restructuring plan, from March 1, 2025, Viet Nam has officially eliminated the district-level police and transitioned to a three-tier police structure: ministry, province, and commune. VNS
NEW YORK  The Group of Asia-Pacific states at the United Nations (UN) last weekend agreed to nominate Viet Nam for the position of Chair of the 35th meeting of the States Parties to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (SPLOS).

The position will be officially elected just before the meeting slated for June 23-27 at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The nomination reflects the high trust and recognition from the international community for Viet Nam's leading efforts in implementing and strengthening the universal values of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as well as its positive contributions to the work of the UN since it joined the convention in 1994.

Holding the position will be an opportunity for the country to continue asserting its role as a responsible member state of UNCLOS and to make a meaningful contribution to global efforts in ocean governance.

Over the past years, Viet Nam has considered UNCLOS as the Constitution of the Oceans and a crucial basis for implementing maritime cooperation activities. It has achieved significant accomplishments in solving maritime delimitation issues with neighbouring countries such as Thailand, China and Indonesia, enriching the practical application of the conventions provisions.

Viet Nam has also actively participated in UNCLOS-related activities, such as holding its membership at the Council and the Legal and Technical Commission of the International Seabed Authority. It was an active participant in negotiations and one of the first countries to sign the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, the most recent international document related to the implementation of the Convention.

It has nominated experienced and highly skilled experts to various UNCLOS-established bodies, including a candidate for the position of judge at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) for the 2026-2035 term. At the UN, Viet Nam co-founded the UNCLOS Group of Friends with over 100 member countries from all regions to promote the universality of the Convention and enhance its effective implementation.

UNCLOS that regulates all maritime activities was adopted on December 10, 1982, and officially came into force on November 16, 1994. Viet Nam was one of the first 107 countries to sign and later ratify the Convention on June 23, 1994. At present, it has 170 member states.

SPLOS is an annual conference convened by the UN Secretary-General under the provisions of UNCLOS. It is an essential forum where all member states review the implementation of the Convention, discuss emerging issues in its application, and make decisions on necessary measures to enhance its enforcement and global ocean governance.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Sweden sees Viet Nam as an important partner in Southeast Asia and believes their bilateral ties have strong potential for further development, according to Aron Emilsson, chair of the Swedish parliaments Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Emilsson met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son in Ha Noi on Monday as part of an official visit to Viet Nam.

The two leaders lauded bilateral achievements in politics and diplomacy as well as trade and economic relations, especially as the two countries marked the 55th anniversary of official diplomatic relations in 2024.

Son expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries and their legislative bodies.

Sweden has supported Viet Nam in the latters fight for independence in the past and its development progress today, said Son, adding that the two countries should continue delegation exchanges and dialogues on all levels, including via state, government and parliamentary channels.

The Vietnamese official also encouraged strengthening cooperation between State agencies and businesses, especially in areas of strength for Sweden and Viet Nams development priorities, such as trade and economic ties, innovation, science and technology, digital transformation, energy transition, workforce development, and education and training.

Viet Nam also requested that the Swedish parliament promote the ratification of the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) among EU member states, thereby opening up new opportunities for businesses and investors from both countries.

Praising Viet Nams achievements in growth over the past several years, Emilsson agreed with Son on strengthening cooperation to enhance mutual understanding and bilateral relations between Viet Nam and Sweden.

During the meeting, the two leaders also discussed their socio-economic growth and foreign policies, as well as international and regional issues of mutual concern.

They agreed that Viet Nam and Sweden need to further enhance cooperation at regional and multilateral forums to address global challenges, particularly those related to security, peace and sustainable development.  VNS
HA NOI  National Assembly Deputy Chairman Tran Quang Phuong on Monday welcomed a delegation of the Swedish parliaments Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Led by the committees chair Aron Emilsson, the delegation is on a working visit to Viet Nam from March 2 to 5.

Expressing gratitude for Swedens support of Viet Nam's struggle for independence in the past and on its development path today, Phuong said that Viet Nam values enhancing ties with Sweden.

The NA Deputy Chairman updated the Swedish delegation on Viet Nams socio-economic growth, saying that after nearly 40 years of oi moi (Renewal), the country has made substantial and comprehensive achievements on its development path, notably in sustainable poverty reduction and building new-style rural areas.

The Southeast Asian nation also made a commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Viet Nam also put efforts into revamping its political system and State management for better and more efficient governance, with the restructuring of its public sector largely completed.

Reiterating that Sweden is an important partner of Viet Nam in Scandinavia, Phuong expressed satisfaction on the progress of their cooperation in trade, economy, investment, education and people-to-people exchanges.

The Vietnamese legislator proposed increasing high-level delegation exchanges, as well as collaboration at the Party, State and parliamentary levels to enhance political trust and cooperation momentum in other areas.

Particularly at the parliamentary level, the two countries are expected to increase exchanges among committees, focusing on policymaking, supervision and decision-making on national issues, especially in regard to the green transition, digital transformation, planning, renewable energy development and other parliamentary activities.

Phuong suggested that the two legislative bodies continue their oversight on government policy implementation in their areas of collaboration, ensuring the alignment of cooperation agreements with national laws and international commitments.

The two leaders also support upgrading bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership.

Underscoring the importance of Viet Nam-Sweden ties, Swedish parliamentarian Emilsson said he hoped to see further progress in bilateral cooperation based on past encouraging results.

The purpose of this working visit is to enhance mutual understanding and dialogues on issues of mutual concern, promote parliamentary cooperation and share experiences in policy development, he said.

As for the potential to elevate their ties to a Strategic Partnership in the future, Emilsson recommends increasing collaboration in digital skill training, trade and economic ties, as well as culture, education, science and technology, and national defence and security.  VNS
HA NOI  Building on its proud tradition and victories over the past seven decades, the Air Defence - Air Force (ADAF) has continued to strengthen combat readiness, ever-ready to protect the homeland from aerial threats.

Battlefields in the skies

During the early years of the resistance against French colonialism, right after the establishment of the Viet Nam People's Army (VPA), the Party and the State aimed to build a regular military with all essential forces, including the Navy, Army and Air Defence  Air Force. Following this direction, on March 3, 1955, the Ministry of National Defence decided to establish the Airport Research Department, marking the formation of Viet Nam's air force.

In early 1959, the Air Force Department was established, and air force regiments were gradually formed. Despite numerous challenges, with strong support from the Party Central Committee, the Central Military Commission, and the Ministry of National Defence, the air force developed rapidly.

On April 3, 1965, the MiG-17 Squadron took off, shooting down two US Navy F-8U aircraft over the skies of Ham Rong in central province Thanh Hoa. The victory in "opening the sky front" inspired people and soldiers nationwide, bolstering the determination to defeat the US invaders.

Between 1964 and 1972, throughout two waves of the USs destruction campaigns over the northern region, the force achieved many outstanding victories, shooting down numerous advanced aircraft and capturing veteran American pilots with thousands of flight hours.

In particular, during the December 1972 Air Defence Campaign, the ADAF worked closely with other forces, downing seven enemy planes, including two B-52 bombers, and capturing five enemy pilots. This effort contributed to the "Ha Noi  ien Bien Phu in the Air" victory, forcing the US to sign the Paris Peace Accords on January 27, 1973, resuming peace in Viet Nam.

During the historic Ho Chi Minh Campaign, after just six days of intense training, on the afternoon of April 28, 1975, the Quyet Thang (determined to win) Squadron used an A-37 aircraft captured from the enemy to launch a surprise attack on Tan Son Nhat Airport in the then Saigon City, helping accelerate the strategic plan on various battlefields. After national reunification, the ADAF, along with the people and military, played a key role in safeguarding the southwestern and northern borders, assisting Cambodia in escaping the genocidal regime, fulfilling international missions.

For these extraordinary achievements, the Party, State, and the VPA awarded the force many prestigious honours. The ADAF and 39 units, 79 individuals received the title of "Hero of the People's Armed Forces" and "Labour Hero" in recognition of their sacrifices and efforts.

Honour and responsibilities

Long after the war ended, as the country enters a new development phase, new tasks and challenges have emerged for the ADAF. Building on its heroic tradition, the force has continued to make contributions to the nation, mastering the skies and maintaining peace and stability for national development.

It has actively mastered new weapons and technical equipment, maintaining combat readiness, ensuring that the homeland is never caught off guard by aerial threats. The force has conducted successful exercises, contributing to safeguarding the national sovereignty and enhancing control over the national airspace, seas, and islands, while also carrying out rescue operations, patrols, and special flights serving Party and State leaders.

Along with improving operational efficiency and combat capacity, the force is continuing to rearrange their organisation and structure in a streamlined, efficient, and powerful manner.

Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Van Hien, Commander of the ADAF, after more than 70 years of construction and development, the once fledgling force has transformed into a modern, capable unit, fulfilling every task entrusted by the Party, State, military, and people. With great pride in its glorious achievements, the force is more committed than ever to defending the country and upholding its responsibility in national security and defence, he said.

Hien also underlined the forces efforts to implement the Partys strategy for the protection of the Fatherland in the new situation and identify risks for timely response.  VNA/VNS
HCM CITY  The Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organisations hosted a ceremony on Monday to commemorate the 147th anniversary of Bulgarias National Day (March 3, 1878) and the 75th anniversary of the two countries diplomatic relations (19502025), highlighting the solidarity and friendship between the two countries.

In her congratulatory remarks, Chairwoman of the municipal Viet Nam-Bulgaria Friendship Association Hoang Thai Lan expressed her delight at the robust and sound development of bilateral ties across various fields, including diplomacy, education, trade, and investment. With their historical similarities, Viet Nam and Bulgaria have fostered a steadfast and loyal friendship, continuously nurtured by their leaders and people over more than seven decades.

She noted that recent years have seen frequent high-level visits between the two nations, reflecting a shared commitment to long-term cooperation and aspirations for strategic partnership. Viet Nam and Bulgaria continue to demonstrate a sustainable collaboration on the international stage, contributing to global peace, prosperity, and mutual growth.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Oleg Marinov, Bulgarian Economic and Trade Counselor in the southern metropolis, conveyed a message from Bulgarian Ambassador to Viet Nam Pavlin Todorov. In his letter, the ambassador expressed gratitude to the municipal friendship union for organising the celebration.

He wrote that Bulgaria appreciates the contributions of Vietnamese citizens who have studied, lived, and worked there, considering the group a valuable asset to bilateral relations.

The two countries have built a friendship based on mutual respect, shared values, and common goals, Todorov noted. Their 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties serves as an opportunity to honour past achievements while paving the way for future cooperation with a clear roadmap.

As of late 2024, Bulgaria had 14 direct investment projects worth over US$31 million in Viet Nam, ranking 69th out of 145 countries and territories investing in the Southeast Asian country.  VNS
HA NOI  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son made several recommendations for Viet Nam  Turkiye ties to grow substantively while talking over the phone with Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan on Monday.

Son affirmed that Turkiye is a leading partner of Viet Nam in the Middle East, and noted with satisfaction the recent progress in bilateral relations, especially since Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinhs official visit to Turkiye in November 2023, with economic cooperation being a bright spot.

Bilateral trade reached US$2.4 billion in 2024, rising 10 per cent from the previous year. Meanwhile, Turkiye remains the largest Middle Eastern investor in Viet Nam, with its investment totalling $1.74 billion last year, surging 75 per cent from 2023, he said.

To ensure increasingly substantive and effective development of bilateral ties, Son suggested the two sides work together to carry out cooperation priorities, including upgrading the Viet Nam  Turkiye relationship; promoting mutual visits at all levels, especially high-level ones; coordinating with and supporting each other at international organisations; and improving the effectiveness of bilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the Joint Committee and the Political Consultation.

He also took this occasion to convey PM Chiinhs invitation to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to pay an official visit to Viet Nam and attend the 4th Summit of the Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G).

For his part, Fidan stated Turkiye attaches importance to the relationship with Viet Nam  its leading partner in Southeast Asia.

Turkiye is promoting efforts to soon complete the upgrade of ties with Viet Nam in the time ahead, he said, adding it also wishes to enhance cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Highly valuing Viet Nams efforts to organise the P4G Summit, the minister expressed his belief that the event will be a success, demonstrating the countrys strong commitment to joining hands with the international community to foster green growth, fight climate change, and develop sustainably.  VNS
HA NOI  Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic Adylbek Aleshovich Kasymaliev is set to pay an official visit to Viet Nam this week, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Taking place from March 6 to March 7, the trip will be made at the invitation of Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.  VNS
HCM CITY  Viet Nam is considering relaxing its two-child policy due to a low birth rate, one of the lowest in Southeast Asia.

The Ministry of Health has proposed allowing couples to decide the number and timing of their children, as well as addressing regional disparities in birth rates.

Currently, Viet Nams birth rate is below the regional average of 2.0 children per woman, and is higher only than Brunei (1.8), Malaysia (1.6), Thailand (1.47), and Singapore (1.0).

Like other nations in Asia, Viet Nam has begun to grapple with escalating concerns regarding its demographic challenges.

Experts have attributed its low birth rate to multiple factors, including work-related pressures, financial constraints, a focus on career advancement and evolving social perceptions.

From 1999 to 2022, its birth rate remained stable around the replacement level of 2.1, according to a report by the Ministry of Health.

However, in the past two years, this rate has seen a rapid decline, dropping from 1.96 children per woman in 2023, to 1.91 children per woman in 2024, the lowest level in the nations history.

The decline represents the third consecutive year in which Viet Nams birth rate has fallen below the replacement level, according to the report.

The number of localities with birth rates below the replacement level has risen from 22 in 2019 to 32 in 2024, mainly in the southeast and Mekong Delta regions.

In 2024, urban areas reported a birth rate of 1.67 children per woman, while rural regions recorded a rate of 2.08, both below the replacement threshold.

In addition, while the gender ratio at birth has improved, it remains unbalanced, with 112 boys born for every 100 girls.

Birth rates vary significantly across regions. The southeast and Mekong Delta have the lowest rates, at 1.48 and 1.62 children per woman, respectively.

In contrast, the northeast and northern mountainous regions have higher rates, at 2.34 and 2.24 children per woman, respectively, exceeding the replacement level.

HCM City, the nations largest city, recorded the lowest rate in the country at 1.39, while Ha Giang Province in northern Viet Nam has the highest at 2.69.

End of golden population

Viet Nams birth rate is projected to continue its decline, marking the end of its golden population period by 2039 and leading to negative growth by 2054, experts said.

They have warned of potential labour shortages and socio-economic challenges due to an ageing population.

Nguyen Thi Lien Huong, deputy minister of Health, emphasised the urgent need to encourage larger families such as easing penalties for a third child and considering financial support for families.

The government is also addressing reproductive healthcare and services for the elderly.

Efforts are being made to raise public awareness on family planning and gender equality, while promoting the two-child model and integrating population goals into local plans.

Viet Nams challenges are not unique; other countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan face similar issues.

In response, 55 governments around the world have implemented policies to boost birth rates, including improved parental leave and financial incentives.

South Korea has significantly increased funding for pro-birth programs, while Hungary offers lifetime tax exemptions for women with four or more children.

Experts recommended Viet Nam develop practical measures, such as reducing child-rearing costs and providing housing assistance, to encourage higher birth rates.  VNS
BAC LIEU  Bac Lieu Province is making efforts to preserve and develop its craft villages, with a focus on integrating them with tourism services.

The Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta province boasts 10 recognised craft villages, which produce bamboo products, mats, iron products, salt, and handicrafts.

These villages provide employment for over 1,500 households in rural areas, but their production is on the decline as their products struggle to compete with modern alternatives.

The Nha Lau 1 Hamlet bamboo knitting village in Ninh Thanh Loi A Commune, Hong Dan District, has long been known for its bamboo products such as baskets and other household items.

Le Van The, who has spent more than 50 years producing bamboo goods in the village, explains that the villagers took advantage of the local soil conditions, ideal for bamboo cultivation, to create agricultural tools and household utensils during the 1950s and 1960s.

At its peak, the village had hundreds of households producing a wide range of bamboo baskets, he says.

However, the rise of plastic, stainless steel and other materials led to a decline in the villages production, as these products are now more competitive in terms of both design and price, he says.

The number of households engaged in bamboo weaving has now decreased to just 90, he says.

Other craft villages in the province are facing similar struggles as machine-made products, produced using modern facilities, dominate the market.

The Thong Nhat Hamlet blacksmithing village in Ngan Dua Town, Hong Dan District, now has only four households practising the craft.

In the past blacksmith work provided a good income, as iron household items and agricultural tools were made by hand.

Most agricultural tools are now produced by machines, offering competitive prices.

Tran Quang ieps family has been involved in blacksmithing for three generations, particularly making knives in Ngan Dua.

This occupation is physically demanding and poorly paid and as a result fails to attract workers, especially younger generations, he explains.

The province is implementing support policies to help craft villages preserve and develop their industries.

Tran Thanh Men, director of the Department of Industry and Trade, says the department is helping and encouraging craft villages to update their production equipment, adopt advanced technologies, improve product quality and productivity, reduce production costs, and enhance competitiveness.

To expand market access, craft villages should combine traditional and modern production techniques, applying new technologies to certain production stages, which will allow them to produce goods more efficiently and diversify their designs, he says.

To ensure the long-term sustainability of craft villages, they should also incorporate tourism services, as this can help expand sales, promote production and highlight the cultural value of traditional crafts, he notes.

Ly Vy Trieu Duong, deputy director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, says alongside the provinces traditional tourism strengths related to culture, history, spiritualism, and ecology, craft village tourism is emerging as an attractive new trend.

Craft village tourism can be considered a form of cultural tourism in which visitors explore craft villages, experience their cultural significance, and purchase products.

The Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is taking various measures to develop craft village tourism, focusing on producing locally distinctive products.

It is assisting craft villages in the development of handicraft production, including the introduction of advanced technologies.

The My 1 Hamlet bamboo knitting village in Phuoc Long Districts Vinh Phu ong Commune is currently implementing a project to apply modern technologies to boost production.

Local authorities and residents are investing in transport infrastructure to make the village more accessible to tourists and are setting up locations to showcase and sell handicrafts.

They are also working on a project to preserve and develop the village, incorporating rural tourism through the establishment of the Truc Xanh Co-operative, which has 19 members.

The village primarily produces can xe (a type of large bamboo basket), and local authorities are encouraging artisans to create new products, especially those tailored for tourists.

They are also soliciting investment in developing the villages production alongside the expansion of community-based tourism services.

Tran Anh Khiem, secretary of the Vinh Phu ong Commune Party Committee, says: One of the challenges in preserving and developing traditional craft villages is that many focus solely on production, without advertising or promoting their products. There is also a lack of research into creating new products based on their strengths.

Products from craft villages are often sold through numerous intermediaries before reaching consumers, resulting in lower profits, which in turn deters workers from entering the trade, he says.

Bac Lieu, the largest salt producer in the delta, is also taking steps to increase production of the condiment.

It has a project to increase the value of salt production and processing in the 2021-30 period that aims to maintain the province's salt production area at 1,500 hectares and achieve an annual output of 66,000 tonnes by 2030.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the province will host the Vietnamese Salt Craft Festival - Bac Lieu 2025: 100-Year Journey of Salt  Human Life from March 6 to 8.

The salt-making craft in Bac Lieu has been recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage, and Bac Lieu salt has received a geographical indication certificate from the National Office of Intellectual Property.  VNS
BANGKOK  Bangkok city officials have announced a stringent new initiative to eradicate e-cigarette sales and usage around schools, with a target of achieving 100 per cent smoke-free environments.

The move comes amid growing concerns over the increased accessibility of e-cigarettes to children, particularly through online platforms.

Associate Professor Thavida Kamolvej, Deputy Governor of Bangkok, presided over the Bangkok Narcotics Suppression and Prevention Operations Centre (BMA-NSOC) meeting last week, where the ambitious plan was unveiled.

The meeting, held at the Nopparat Room, Bangkok City Hall (Sao Chingcha) and via video conference, focused on bolstering collaborative efforts to combat drug-related issues across the capital.

Key agenda items included updates on various anti-drug programmes, such as a TikTok-based creative media competition aimed at raising awareness, and the latest drug situation reports within Bangkok.

Progress reports were also presented on the citys social rehabilitation centre, budget disbursements, community strengthening projects, and the ongoing monitoring of kratom, cannabis, and e-cigarette trends.

A primary focus of the discussion was the alarming rise in e-cigarette usage among young people. Officials expressed particular concern over the potential of e-cigarettes to act as a gateway to more serious drug use.

To address this, city police (known as Thesakij) will be instructed to work in close collaboration with police officers during patrols and operations. This joint effort aims to prevent the illicit sale of e-cigarettes and other narcotics to school children.

The immediate priority is to eliminate all retail and clandestine sales of e-cigarettes on school premises and in their surrounding areas. This initial phase will be followed by a citywide crackdown to ensure robust enforcement of the new regulations.

The goal is to achieve a 100 per cent e-cigarette and drug-free environment in and around schools. Initially, there should be a complete ban on both legal establishments and illicit sales of e-cigarettes in these areas, with plans for expansion to other locations to ensure decisive action is taken.

Furthermore, district offices and relevant agencies have been directed to ensure prompt and accurate data entry into the central information system. This will facilitate effective inter-agency coordination and information sharing. The next BMA-NSOC meeting is scheduled for March 27, where progress on these initiatives will be reviewed.  THE NATION/ANN
The two companies  Liberty Insurance in Vietnam and LMG Insurance in Thailand  offer a range of consumer and commercial property and casualty products, including automotive, accident and health and non-motor insurance such as fire/property and industrial all-risk. This portfolio is coupled with complementary distribution through 56 branches, 2,600 brokers and agents, and 26 finance partners. The combined operations produced approximately $275 million in net premiums written in 2024.

The transactions are expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2025 (Thailand) and late 2025 / early 2026 (Vietnam) and are subject to required regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

This transaction allows Liberty Mutual to focus on its portfolio in Asia-Pacific, projected to be the largest property and casualty insurance market by 2045. The company will continue to execute on its strategy to capitalise on the greatest opportunities in the region through remaining operations in Australia, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Singapore and India.

"Thailand and Vietnam are well-performing businesses with real potential, and this transaction aligns them with an organisation that has the strategy and commitment to invest in the development of these markets," said Liberty Mutual president and CEO Tim Sweeney.

Goldman Sachs acted as financial advisor, and Baker McKenzie, Thailand and Baker & McKenzie (Vietnam) Ltd. provided legal advice to Liberty Mutual in the transaction.

Chubb reports significant rise in net income as P&C underwriting profit swells in Q3 Property and casualty (P&C) insurer Chubb has reported net and core operating incomes for Q3/2023 of $2.04 billion each, up 157.8 and 55.4 per cent, respectively. The news comes as its P&C arm delivered a combined ratio of 88.4 per cent with an underwriting income of $1.31 billion.

Liberty Insurance receives Best Companies to Work for in Asia award Liberty Insurance Limited, a subsidiary of Liberty Mutual Insurance Group headquartered in the US, has been recognised by the region's leading HR Asia as the first non-life insurer in Vietnam to become an award recipient of Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2023.
Authorities search for missing victims at the site of a work accident at Dak Mi 1 Hydropower Plant in the Central Highlands province of Kon Tum in December 2024. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi - Economic losses caused by workplace accidents nationwide amounted to over 43 trillion VND (1.68 billion USD) in 2024, marking an increase of around 26 trillion VND (1.01 billion USD) compared to 2023.

Data from the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs on workplace accidents in 2024 revealed that last year, there were 8,286 workplace accidents across the country, an increase of 892 cases from 2023, resulting in 8,472 victims, an increase of 919 people.

Among these, there were 675 fatal workplace accidents, 13 more than in 2023.

The number of fatalities due to workplace accidents was 727, up 28 on-year, while 1,690 people sustained serious injuries, down 30 from the previous year.

The localities with the highest numbers of fatalities from workplace accidents in 2024, including in both formal and informal employment sectors, were Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Dong Nai, Binh Duong, Quang Ninh, Hai Phong, Binh Phuoc, Long An and Thai Binh.

Analysis of fatal workplace accident reports indicates that the industries with the highest number of fatal accidents included mining, mineral extraction, construction, building materials production, machinery, metallurgy, services, textiles and footwear.

The primary cause of fatal workplace accidents was attributed to employers, accounting for 46.9% of all incidents and 47.1% of the fatalities. Worker-related causes made up 22.9% of incidents and 20.6% of fatalities.

The ministry also reported that according to preliminary data from local authorities, material losses caused by workplace accidents in 2024 included costs for medicines, funeral expenses and compensation for the families of those killed and for injured workers.

Property damage due to workplace accidents was over 492 billion VND (19.2 million USD), a decrease of approximately 230 billion VND (8.99 million USD) compared to 2023.

The total number of workdays lost due to workplace accidents in 2024 was 154,759, up by around 4,989 days compared to 2023.

The average number of days off per worker due to a workplace accident in 2024 was about 19 days, a decrease of roughly 3 days compared to the previous year.

Preventative measures

To proactively prevent and reduce workplace accidents in the future, the ministry has called for ministries, sectors, localities, businesses and organisations, including both employers and employees, to focus on implementing several key measures.

Ministries and sectors were urged to instruct companies under their jurisdiction to proactively inspect workplace safety and hygiene practices.

They should work with the ministry to inspect and monitor businesses in high-risk industries where workplace accidents and serious incidents are more likely.

High-risk industries include construction, building material production and mining and mineral extraction, especially at major construction sites near residential areas or high foot traffic and those involving lifting equipment or elevators.

At the same time, the Ministry of Health was asked to intensify guidance and monitoring of workplace accident reporting in healthcare facilities, as outlined in Article 36 of the Law on Labour Safety and Hygiene and Article 25 of Decree No. 39/2016/N-CP dated May 2016.

Reports are to be sent to the labour ministry in line with legal requirements.

Efforts to monitor workplace environmental conditions should also be strengthened.

The labour ministry also emphasised that provincial and municipal authorities must implement further measures.

Localities must increase inspections to ensure businesses comply with workplace safety regulations, especially in the high-risk industries. Special attention should be given to the development of safe working procedures and emergency measures.

Local authorities were also told to organise more awareness campaigns on workplace safety and hygiene regulations tailored to specific industries, with a focus on educating workers who lack formal contracts.

They were assigned to increase investigations into workplace accidents involving informal workers and provide timely solutions for preventing similar incidents.

Additionally, localities should enhance accident prevention measures, supported by the social insurance fund for workplace accidents and occupational diseases, and submit regular reports to the labour ministry.

The Vietnam General Confederation of Labour, the Vietnam Farmers' Union and other professional associations should step up efforts to educate workers and members on following safety protocols and using personal protective equipment to reduce the risk of workplace accidents, safeguarding workers' health and lives.
In 2025, Vietnam's logistics industry is experiencing significant transformations, making it an even more attractive hub for global companies.

The industry has seen impressive annual growth rates of 14-16 per cent, and Vietnam ranks 43rd globally in the Logistics Performance Index (LPI).

Major investments in technology, green logistics, and large-scale logistics centres are driving this growth. The country's seaport system has also seen substantial development, with major ports in Haiphong, Ho Chi Minh City, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau being upgraded. These advancements are creating a robust environment for international companies to relocate their logistics centres to Vietnam.

Selecting the right logistics hub is just the first step. To enhance decision-making, companies are increasingly leveraging Digital Twin technology. This advanced simulation tool helps businesses analyse warehouse locations, transportation routes, and cost scenarios, enabling data-driven site selection and logistics network optimisation.

However, once a location is selected, a new challenge ariseshow to efficiently develop or reform the logistics centre itself. Many companies still rely on manual processes, leading to inefficiencies, high costs, and operational risks. This is where ABeam Consulting provides end-to-end support, addressing strategic planning, automation, and vendor coordination to help companies optimise their logistics operations. Our approach aligns with the unique challenges of the Vietnamese market, including workforce availability, land acquisition complexities, and rising automation trends.

Challenges in logistics centre development

Despite rapid advancements in Vietnams logistics sector, many companies still rely on manual logistics processes, leading to inefficiencies, higher costs, and quality inconsistencies. One of the most difficult challenges is the reliance on experience-based operational design rather than data-driven methodologies, which results in inconsistent warehouse operations. Additionally, companies frequently struggle to validate the effectiveness of warehouse layouts and workflows before implementation, causing frequent design modifications that disrupt overall efficiency.

Cost concerns are another major issue. Businesses often make large investments in equipment and automation without a clear return-on-investment analysis. In many cases, property selection, operations, and technology adoption are heavily influenced by vendors rather than being driven by business needs. This lack of strategic cost assessment makes it difficult for companies to justify investments to stakeholders.

Vietnams logistics sector also faces delivery challenges, such as project execution delays due to skill shortages and coordination difficulties among multiple stakeholders. Many companies experience rework and bottlenecks because operational risks are not addressed early enough. Additionally, communication gaps between warehouse developers, system integrators, property owners, and construction firms often lead to misalignment in execution.

To address these challenges, ABeam Consulting follows a structured, data-driven approach to developing and renovating logistics centres in Vietnam. ABeam Consulting's process begins with defining a clear vision based on the companys business strategy. The company helps businesses set capacity targets for storage and handling, assess investment feasibility, and make informed decisions on whether to operate in-house or outsource to third-party logistics providers.

Ensuring high productivity is a core focus. ABeam Consulting introduces automation and material handling solutions tailored to Vietnams labour market conditions. Since labour costs remain competitive, companies must carefully evaluate the right balance between human resources and automation. ABeam Consulting's approach considers warehouse workflows that optimise human-robot collaboration, reducing dependency on manual processes while maintaining flexibility. Standardising business processes also helps ensure long-term operational efficiency.

Effective project execution is crucial, especially in Vietnam, where logistics infrastructure projects often involve multiple stakeholders, from government agencies and property developers to technology providers. ABeam Consulting manages project execution, monitors progress, and facilitates communication among all parties involved. By proactively identifying risks and maintaining alignment across different teams, ABeam Consulting helps companies avoid costly delays and inefficiencies.

Post-launch stability is another key factor. Many companies struggle with operational disruptions after transitioning to a new logistics centre. ABeam Consulting establishes contingency plans, ensuring that businesses can quickly address unexpected issues. The company's team also works closely with clients to track operational performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement continuous improvements.

Use Case: supporting a retail clients logistics centre relocation

One of ABeam Consulting's retail clients faced a critical challenge when their existing distribution centre was handed over, requiring a complete operational migration. Over the years, their internal logistics processes had become fragmented, making it difficult to design a flexible and efficient loading operation. Additionally, they lacked clear criteria for selecting a new location based on labour availability and rental costs. Another major concern was evaluating whether to continue managing logistics in-house or outsource to a 3PL provider.

ABeam Consulting worked closely with the client to streamline their operations. The company's team first organised their existing workflows and analysed loading tasks to identify inefficiencies.

The company then defined warehouse capacity requirements based on projected volumes and helped the client establish operational policies. To support decision-making, ABeam Consulting conducted a thorough evaluation of in-house versus outsourcing options, gathering proposals from 3PL providers and benchmarking cost-effectiveness.

The results were significant. Through detailed cost comparisons, the client ultimately decided to retain in-house operations due to the financial advantages. ABeam Consulting developed six warehouse layout models, incorporating automation technologies such as robotic warehouses, modular sortation solutions, and dynamic allocation systems. By integrating these solutions, the client was able to optimise resource allocation and reduce workforce dependency, achieving an estimated 22 per cent reduction in personnel costs.

Enhancing logistics operations through human-machine collaboration

Vietnams logistics industry is evolving rapidly, and companies that optimise their logistics centres will gain a competitive edge. ABeam Consulting provides a structured, data-driven approach to logistics centre development, integrating Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), AI-driven insights, and automation technologies to improve efficiency.

By focusing on optimised space utilisation, resource management, and human-machine collaboration, ABeam Consulting helps businesses streamline warehouse operations through route optimisation, dock reservation integration, and automated scheduling. ABeam Consulting's expertise in equipment/robot control and indirect operations optimisation ensures that companies can reduce dependency on manual processes while enhancing productivity.

"Successful logistics centre optimisation requires a balance between automation and human operations, strategic planning, and proactive risk management to achieve long-term efficiency and cost savings," said Yoshihiro Wake, lead consultant responsible for the global expansion of the Supply Chain Management business at ABeam Consulting, and Supply Chain Practice lead at ABeam Consulting Vietnam.

If a company is planning to establish a new logistics centre or relocate an existing facility, ABeam Consulting is here to help. With the data-driven approach and deep expertise in Vietnams logistics landscape, ABeam Consulting provides tailored solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure seamless execution.

ABeam optimises supply chain digitalisation With over 40 years of expertise in supply chain digital transformation and business operations in the Asia Pacific region, ABeam Consulting has created a new approach that utilises data management to ensure the optimal deployment of resources of firms on the digital transformation journey.

ABeam Consulting Vietnam introduces BSQCD Purchasing Strategy Framework In November, ABeam Consulting Vietnam introduced the innovative BSQCD Purchasing Strategy framework  a comprehensive solution designed to help Vietnamese manufacturers build resilient, sustainable, and efficient supply chains.
The decision to invest in True North International School (TNIS) and Point Avenue, both under the umbrella of the NPX Point Avenue group, extends beyond Gaw Capital's confidence in the group's business alone, encompassing the broader landscape of educational development in Vietnam.

The move aligns with Gaw Capital Education Platform's long-term vision, supported by notable projects across Asia under the same platform.

TNIS is one of the most innovative and entrepreneurial K-12 schools in Vietnam with a focus on its Four Pillars of Excellence: Character, Fitness & Wellness, Academic Rigour, and Global Citizenry, creating an active lifestyle for students centred around healthy choices. TNIS received the Western Association of Schools and Colleges accreditation for a six-year term, a STEM.org accreditation, and is one of the few schools offering over 15 Advanced Placement courses while serving as a SAT and AP testing centre in the heart of Hanoi's Ha Dong District.

Herbin Koh, head of Growth Equity Platform at Gaw Capital Partners, said, "This strategic investment symbolises Gaw Capital's continuous commitment to making responsible investments that generate positive impact on the wider society while balancing our financial interests. We are excited to continue supporting NPX Point Avenue group's mission to provide quality K-12 education to the next generation of future leaders in Vietnam and beyond."

Danny Hwang, founder and CEO of NPX Point Avenue, added, "We are thrilled to have Gaw Capital, a top private equity firm focused on Asia, as our majority shareholder and receive their strong endorsement. With such robust backing, NPX Point Avenue can be empowered to deliver elite and comprehensive education, ensuring a solid foundation for students' academic and professional success."

Gaw Capital, through its Education Platform, has invested in initiatives such as an early childhood education group in Singapore and Stellart International School of Arts, an international arts school in Southern China. All these ventures demonstrate the firm's dedication to investing in ways that create positive impact while upholding its financial objectives.

Gaw Capital to increase its footprint in Southeast Asia The pan-Asian private equity firm Gaw Capital is scouring Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, in search of potential investment opportunities in the real estate technology sector.

Gaw Capital bets on China plus one opportunities in Vietnam Gaw Capital Partners, one of the biggest global real estate private fund management firms, is focusing on industrial real estate and logistics in Vietnam and Mexico, amid challenges to an economic recovery in mainland China.
PM Pham Minh Chinh (R) and Prof. Dr. Qiu Yong, Secretary of the Tsinghua Universitys Party Committee and Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh expressed his hope for further collaboration between Chinas Tsinghua University and Vietnamese educational and research institutions while hosting a reception in Hanoi on March 2 for Prof. Dr. Qiu Yong, Secretary of the Tsinghua Universitys Party Committee and Academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The focus should be placed on increasing scholarships for Vietnamese lecturers, students, scientists and experts to pursue studies at the Tsinghua University, PM Chinh told Qiu, who is also an alternate member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

He affirmed Vietnam always regards the development of friendly and cooperative relations with China as a consistent policy, an objective requirement, a strategic choice and a top priority in its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and multilateralisation.

The PM expressed his wish and willingness to work with the Chinese Party and Government to further advance the Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership and the Vietnam-China community with a shared future that carries significance in a healthy, stable, sustainable, and increasingly substantive and effective manner.

The signing of cooperation agreements between the Tsinghua University and the Vietnam National University (VNU)  Hanoi, the VNU  HCM City and the National Economics University not only fosters bilateral academic exchanges and collaboration but also offers valuable opportunities to Vietnamese students, lecturers, and researchers to access cutting-edge knowledge, especially scientific advancements from one of the worlds elite universities, PM Chinh said.

The Vietnamese Party and State attach importance to and consider education a top national policy, he said, adding that the 13th National Party Congress identified human resource development, especially high-quality workforce, as one of three strategic breakthroughs for rapid and sustainable national development.

PM Chinh noted that the Politburo of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee recently decided to eliminate tuition fees for all students at public schools from preschool to high school levels nationwide, starting from the 2025-2026 academic year. This reflects the superiority of the Vietnamese socialist regime and underscores the countrys commitment to ensuring equal access to education, ensuring that no one is left behind, he stressed.

Qiu said he highly values and thoroughly understands PM Chinhs important directions about boosting ties between the Tsinghua University and Vietnamese agencies, universities, and research institutes, thus contributing to further enriching and deepening the Comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, as well as the China-Vietnam community with a shared Future that carries strategic significance.

Congratulating Vietnam on its remarkable education-training strides under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the drastic direction of the Vietnamese Government, he reaffirmed the Tsinghua University's commitment to fostering strong educational collaboration, academic exchanges, and scientific research partnerships with the Vietnamese side in the near future.
Pullman Haiphong Grand Hotel is located at a premium position in the city

Pullman Haiphong Grand Hotel, where tradition meets innovation, and every moment sparks new adventures. Experience a blend of heritage-inspired design and modern luxury in an enterprising playground of contemporary meeting venues, restaurants and bars, and a recreation retreat.

Pioneering success in one of the leading port cities in Vietnam, the hotel serves as a strategic nexus accessible by air, rail, sea, and road. A gateway to the world of new entrepreneurs, transit through or enjoy an extended business trip with 364 guest rooms, suites, and residences to make your trip as seamless as possible.

As a leading contemporary design Pullman hotel in Vietnam, it offers an exceptional experience, boasting 364 guestrooms including exclusive suites and apartments.

it offers an exceptional experience, boasting 364 guestrooms including exclusive suites and apartments

Pullman Haiphong Grand Hotel is designed to make the most of cosmopolitan living, with floor-to-ceiling windows that inspire the mind and boost bright ideas. Rooms and suites are categorised into a collection of room types to suit the lifestyle of ever-evolving global nomads. With a blend of comfort and sophistication, settle in for a restful nights sleep with Pullman Signature beds and a pillow menu.

Soothe your senses with a separate bathtub, Japanese washlet, and handcrafted amenities that satisfy your passion for luxury. Push the boundaries of relaxation in rooms boasting private balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and exclusive Lounge Access to up your travel game.

Not just stylish and sophisticated, our Pullman hotel rooms are seamless and smart. Seize every opportunity to connect with colleagues or explore this vibrant port city with friends, or family rooms online via the All-Accor website for the best rates available.

The hotel boasts several meeting rooms along with one of the largest ballrooms in the city. Each meeting space is equipped with the latest audiovisual technology. Whether youre hosting a small team meeting or a large conference, these flexible spaces can be tailored to suit your needs.

In terms of culinary experiences, Pullman Haiphong Grand Hotel gives diners more opportunities to connect and make impressive discoveries.

Mad Cow Wine & Grill offers a modern steakhouse experience with a spacious outdoor space and a luxurious indoor area, serving premium cuts of meat, fresh seafood and a sophisticated wine collection. Meanwhile, Red Flowers Pavilion specialises in serving Chinese and Cantonese cuisine with creative variations based on classic dishes. The Chinese restaurant also has VIP dining rooms, ideal for private parties. Food Connexion, an all-day restaurant, offers a lively culinary journey with open kitchens, where diners can explore the quintessence of Mediterranean cuisine and Haiphong specialities.

In addition, the hotel also focuses on the health and wellness experience for customers.

Garth Simmons, regional managing director of Accor Group Asia - Upscale, Midscale and Standard Hotels said, "Haiphong is emerging as an important destination on the tourism and economic map of Vietnam, opening up many opportunities for both the business and leisure tourism markets in the north. This is the ideal destination for Pullman to pioneer in creating experiences connecting work and lifestyle.

From groundbreaking design, and creative culinary models to classy event spaces, Pullman Haiphong Grand Hotel will contribute to enhancing the city's position as a leading destination for modern travellers. We are proud to continue to strengthen Accor's footprint in Vietnam, accompanying the dynamic development of the hotel industry, and inspiring the future of the luxury segment," Simmons said.

Pullman Phu Quoc: The premier choice for Jeju's first-ever flight to the island The tropical island of Phu Quoc is set to welcome a new wave of travellers with the launch of Jeju Airs first-ever direct flight to the destination.

Style and sophistication at Pullman Haiphong Grand hotel Opened in July, Pullman Haiphong Grand Hotel is designed to maximise cosmopolitan living with floor-to-ceiling windows that inspire creativity in the port city of Haiphong.

Pullman Danang Beach Resort unveils newly renovated grand ballroom Pullman Danang Beach Resort is thrilled to announce the grand unveiling of its newly renovated grand ballroom and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, marking a vibrant new chapter for the resort located in the heart of vibrant Danang.
The landmark event spotlighted the potential of Snapdragon X Seriesincluding Snapdragon X, Snapdragon X Plus, and Snapdragon X Elite to revolutionise with AI PCs. With a focus on superior performance, energy efficiency, and affordability, Qualcomm is poised to reshape how SEA and Vietnamese consumers engage with technology.

The event kicked off with a compelling keynote by Kedar Kondap, senior vice president and general manager of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm Technologies. "We are ushering in a new era where AI tasks will happen automatically and seamlessly, enhancing productivity and creativity for all users," said Kondap.

Kedar Kondap, senior vice president and general manager of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm Technologies. Photo: Qualcomm Technologies

Such a vision resonates strongly with Vietnam, a market known for its young, tech-savvy population eager to adopt cutting-edge innovations. The Snapdragon X Series, with a 45 TOPS NPU that runs AI experiences more efficiently, promises to deliver flagship-level performance at competitive price points, making AI PCs more accessible than ever.

Vietnams burgeoning digital economy, coupled with its rapid adoption of AI, positions it as a key focus for Qualcomm. In 2024 alone, Southeast Asia saw over eight million PCs shipped, with Vietnam playing a significant role in this growth. Experts predict that AI integration could add over $1 trillion to the regions economy by 2030, with Vietnams expenditure on AI expected to contribute to the projected $650 million regional spend by 2026. The Snapdragon X Series aligns perfectly with this trajectory, offering Vietnamese consumers and businesses a gateway to next-generation computing.

The Snapdragon X Series stands out for its ability to democratise AI technology. While the premium Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips cater to higher-end devices priced between $800 $1,200, the newly introduced Snapdragon X targets the mid-range segment starting from $600.

Featuring an 8-core Qualcomm Oryon CPU and a 45 TOPS NPU, Snapdragon X platform delivers exceptional AI performance, extended battery life, and energy efficiencyoutpacing competitors with up to 163 per cent faster performance at ISO-power. For Vietnam, where affordability and efficiency are paramount, this chip promises to bring AI PCs to a broader audience.

Industry leaders joined discussions at the summit. Photo: Qualcomm Technologies

At the summit, industry leaders from ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo joined a debate moderated by ST Liew, vice president and president of SEATANZ at Qualcomm. They highlighted the rise of ARM-based laptops, projecting that such devices could capture 25 per cent of the global PC market by 2027.

For Vietnam, this shift is particularly significant. Thieu Phuong Nam, general director of Qualcomm Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, said, "Vietnam is a vital market for us, with a young demographic that embraces technology and a growing demand for AI-driven solutions."

Partnerships with OEMs like ASUS, which will launch the lightweight Zenbook 14 and A14 (980g) in Ho Chi Minh City on March 4, underscore Qualcomms commitment to expanding its footprint in Vietnam.

At the event, interactive zones showcased the transformative potential of the Snapdragon X Series, offering a glimpse into its relevance for creative and professional communities.

In the Creative Zone, attendees experienced near-zero-latency music production, powered by Snapdragons processing prowessa boon for the burgeoning music and content creation scene.

The Beach Zone demonstrated AI-enhanced photography with Auto-Cropping and Match Look features, alongside audio tools like Moises Live and djay Pro, which deliver studio-quality results five times faster.

These capabilities could empower Vietnamese photographers, musicians, and small businesses to elevate their work without relying on expensive equipment or cloud services.

For professionals, the Snapdragon X Series offers seamless multitasking with support for up to 15K resolution displays and AI-optimised workflows. Features like Copilot+ AI integration enhance productivity with real-time subtitle generation, image editing, and system-wide search improvementsall processed on-device for enhanced security and speed. As over 92 per cent of Asia-Pacific employers plan to adopt AI tools by 2028, such innovations could accelerate digital transformation across industries.

Why Snapdragon X Matters for Vietnam

The Snapdragon X Series is more than a product line; its a catalyst for Vietnams digital future. Its affordability addresses the needs of a market with relatively modest per-person income, while its AI and energy-efficient features cater to a fast-paced, mobile-first society.

Casual gamers, students, and small business ownerskey demographics in Vietnamstand to benefit from extended battery life and robust performance without the need for constant recharging. Moreover, on-device AI ensures data privacy, a critical factor as Vietnamese users increasingly prioritise security.

Qualcomms collaboration with Microsoft and developers further enhances the Snapdragon X experience. With over 93 per cent of user time spent on native apps like Google Chrome and Adobe suite (now optimised for Snapdragon), plus efficient emulation for non-native apps via the Prism x86 engine, Vietnamese consumers can expect a seamless transition to ARM-based computing. The companys AI Hub, offering over 100 AI models, also empowers local developers to create innovative applications tailored to Vietnams needs.

The Snapdragon X Series Southeast Asia Media Summit marked a pivotal moment for Qualcomm and Vietnam alike. By blending high performance, AI accessibility, and competitive pricing, Qualcomm is not only redefining personal computing but also positioning at the forefront of the AI PC revolution.

"This is just the beginning. With AI at the heart of computing, we are redefining whats possible. For Vietnam, the Snapdragon X Series is a gateway to a smarter, more connected futureone that promises to unlock unprecedented opportunities for its people and economy," Kondap concluded,

Qualcomm partners with Vietnam for 5G rollout Shah Zeb and Nam Thieu from Qualcomm spoke to VIRs Bich Thuy about how important 5G is for a successful digital transformation and why its important for the country to accelerate the commercialisation of 5G.

Qualcomm partners with Vietnam in 5G rollout With Vietnams moves to commercialise 5G this year, more opportunities and expectations are coming. Nam Thieu, country director of Qualcomm Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, discussed the importance of 5G commercialisation with VIRs Bich Thuy.
In response to the growing pressures, the Ministry of Industry and Trade is set to impose a temporary anti-dumping tax from March 8 on imported hot-rolled steel from China, known as Hardness Rockwell C Scale (HRC) steel, with rates ranging from around 19.4 per cent to 27.8 per cent.

Photo: baodautu.vn

The move was prompted by requests from Hoa Phat Dung Quat Steel JSC and Formosa Ha Tinh Steel Corporation to safeguard domestic production.

According to customs data, HRC steel imports surged by over 33 per cent in 2024, reaching 12.6 million tonnes - far exceeding domestic demand, which stands at approximately 11-12 million tonnes annually, and local production output, which is around 8.5 million tonnes.

The anti-dumping tax, which will be in effect for 120 days, aims to curb the influx of imports and provide a positive signal for domestic steel manufacturers. The tax rate significantly exceeds the typical price difference between locally produced HRC steel and Chinese imports, which ranges from $15-45 per tonne.

Vietnam experienced a record year for steel imports last year, totalling almost $19.1 billion, with supplies from China accounting for $12 billion- a 32 per cent jump on-year.

The surge in cheap Chinese steel has significantly eroded the market share of domestic companies, dropping from 42 per cent in 2021 to 30 per cent in 2023, with imported HRC steel reaching 9.6 million tonnes that year- 1.5 times the domestic production volume.

This trend has intensified competitive pressure and triggered a wave of global trade protection measures, with 14 countries launching investigations and imposing anti-dumping and countervailing duties on HRC steel from China and India.

Major steel exporters such as Hoa Sen Group, Nam Kim Steel JSC, and Ton Dong A Corporation are struggling to maintain competitive pricing as they face fierce competition from steel producers in China, India, Mexico, Canada, and Brazil -countries that can adjust prices to retain market share.

According to Vy Tien Toan, CEO of Trung Tin Kim Steel and Trading Co., Ltd., the anti-dumping tax on Chinese HRC steel may provide opportunities for domestic producers like Hoa Phat to increase sales targeting major export markets like the US.

"Additionally, as US tariffs remain high compared to markets like the EU, Canada, and Mexico, Vietnamese businesses can expand their market share in the US in the long term," said Toan.

Vietnams steel industry is also facing a paradox in which the local demand of approximately 11-12 million tonnes per year is lower than import volume, leading to a heavy reliance on foreign supplies. This diminishes domestic market share and poses long-term stability challenges for the industry.

To address these issues, local firms are restructuring, enhancing management capabilities, and modernising technology to reduce production costs.

The industry is also shifting towards producing higher-value-added products rather than relying solely on traditional raw materials. Strengthening value chain linkages and improving logistics systems, which are the key factors helping businesses control raw material supply and swiftly adapt to policy changes in the global market, is also a priority.

Experts believe that this transformation will alleviate competitive pressures from imports and enhance the competitiveness of Vietnams steel industry on the global market.

With the countrys participation in free trade agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and EVFTA, local steel industry has the opportunity to expand into markets like the EU, ASEAN, Japan, and South Korea, reducing its dependence on the US market, which is subject to high tariffs.

At the same time, local firms are actively researching HS Codes- internationally standardised classification codes used in global trade to categorise products and determine applicable tariffs and trade regulations- to identify product categories that face lower import duties or trade restrictions.

By strategically selecting and adapting their product offerings to fit these classifications, businesses can develop specialised, high-value-added products that meet the stringent requirements of international markets while minimising tariff-related costs.

These strategic measures not only contribute to mitigating risks from global political fluctuations, but also strengthen the competitiveness of the domestic steel industry on the global stage.

Vietnam semiconductor manufacturing industry ready to join global supply chain Vietnam has the opportunity to become a hub for semiconductor equipment manufacturing and strengthen its integration into the worldwide semiconductor value chain.

Vietnam seizes opportunities amid global trade shifts Vietnam is navigating the shifting currents of global trade and seeking to sustain its economic growth. Barry Weisblatt, head of research at VNDirect Securities, spoke with VIRs Khanh Linh about the strategic avenues the country must explore to capitalise on its potential.
Scam centres in the Thai - Myanmar border area (Photo: BBC)

Hanoi  Thailand agreed with Myanmar and China to repatriate thousands of alleged scam centre workers stranded in camps at the Thai-Myanmar border, part of a crackdown on transnational crime, an official has said.

Some 5,000 Chinese nationals will be sent home, with an average number of 1,000 a week, starting next week, the Thai Foreign Ministrys spokesperson Nikorndej Balankura told reporters.

The announcement came after a meeting in Bangkok between Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Chinese Assistant Minister for Public Security Liu Zhongyi and Myanmar's Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Aung Kyaw Kyaw.

Cyberscam operations, which have thrived in Myanmar's lawless border areas for several years, lure foreign workers with promises of high-paying jobs but hold them hostage and force them into committing online fraud.

The United Nations estimates that as many as 120,000 people, many of them Chinese men, may be working in Myanmar scam centres against their will.

Myanmar returns 100 scam centre workers to China Myanmar has handed over more than 100 Chinese scam centre workers to be repatriated through Thailand, the third batch in a major crackdown on the illegal operations.

Thailand to cooperate with Cambodia, Laos to curb scams The Thai government is committed to protecting Thais from criminal networks and has already made substantial progress.
US President Donald Trump announced a series of escalating tariffs in February, aimed at key US trading partners including Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium imports and a worldwide reciprocal tariff plan.

This has raised fresh concerns over a global trade war, which could increase difficulties for struggling economies.

According to a report by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), if the United States imposes tariffs on products originating from Vietnam, the consequences will not just be limited to domestic businesses but will also negatively impact FIEs.

For example, a multinational corporation may have a component manufacturing factory in Vietnam and an assembly line in Thailand with the intent to export to the US. When the US adjusts tariffs on a link in this chain, businesses will have to re-evaluate their production strategies, posing a difficult problem for Vietnam in retaining investment.

On the other hand, the supply chain of electronic components, electronic products, and others is a significant source of budget revenue for Vietnam.

Some economists believe that in the face of external tariff pressure, legal reforms will continue to be an important tool for nations to retain their attractiveness and competitiveness. The Vietnamese government has made significant strides in improving the business climate. However, further refinements are being sought to create a more favourable business climate.

"British businesses look forward to continued improvements, particularly in simplifying customs procedures, tax compliance, and licensing processes. Faster and more transparent administrative processes would greatly benefit companies looking to expand their operations, and market access," said Denzel Eades, chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam.

VCCI vice president Nguyen Quang Vinh

VCCI vice president Nguyen Quang Vinh said, "Policy stability is key, as large investors need a low-risk and predictable business environment."

According to the VCCI, countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines are improving their investment environments to attract foreign investment. With increasingly fierce competition from these countries, Vietnam faces the risk of losing out on foreign capital if it does not make appropriate policies.

Source: Foreign Investment Agency under the Ministry of Finance

Vinh believes labour costs and tax incentives are no longer unique advantages, as neighbouring countries are also adjusting their policies to draw in investment. "To maintain investment appeal and competitiveness, the country should improve workforce quality to meet the demands of FIEs in high-tech industries, accelerate the development of digital infrastructure and logistics, and enhance selective incentive policies focusing on high-value and sustainable industries."

"It is essential to ensure transparency and policy stability so that businesses can invest with confidence in the long term. Vietnam must continuously improve its investment environment and adopt a flexible foreign investment attraction strategy to maintain its regional position," said Vinh.

Experts also highlight that the rise of blockchain, AI, and digital currencies is evidence that the future will increasingly be shaped by technological advancements. Therefore, a country with strong technological investments will have a significant advantage.

European, Asian markets mixed on Chinese data and US tariffs European and Asian stock markets were mixed on Monday (Dec 2) as investors cheered a surprise jump in Chinese factory activity, but were chilled by fresh US tariffs on Argentina and Brazil.

EU set to get WTO green light for US tariffs One year after sanctioning the EU for its support of Airbus, the World Trade Organization was expected Tuesday to let the bloc impose sanctions on the United States for aid to Boeing.
Hanoi - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh chaired a dialogue with European enterprises in Hanoi on March 2 to boost cooperation and investment, aiming to achieve a growth rate of at least 8 per cent this year, paving the way for double-digit growth in the years ahead.

The event also the attendance of Deputy PMs Ho Duc Phoc and Nguyen Chi Dung, Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam Ambassador Julien Guerrier, representatives from embassies of EU nations, 15 leading Vietnamese groups and corporations and 16 top European firms.

The European Union (EU)'s investment in Vietnam now tops 30.4 billion USD, ranking as the sixth largest foreign investor in Vietnam. Two-way trade hit 68.5 billion USD last year.

European representatives praised Vietnam's business and investment climate, highlighting recent regulatory reforms that have improved transparency, clarity, and decisiveness in the legal framework for investors.

PM Pham Minh Chinh (centre) and Deputy PMs Ho Duc Phoc (left) and Nguyen Chi Dung (right) at the dialogue. (Photo: VNA)

The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has further encouraged European businesses to expand their investments in Vietnam, contributing to the countrys economic growth. Through the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), the EU is supporting Vietnam in achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

A recent survey revealed that 75 per cent of European enterprises recommend Vietnam as a key investment hub, reflecting strong confidence in the countrys economic potential.

European enterprises expressed their commitments to long-term operations in Vietnam, pledging to work closely with the Vietnamese Government, ministries and agencies to draw more international investors to the country.

They called on Vietnamese ministries and agencies to effectively implement the EVFTA, particularly regulations on taxation and fees. They underscored the need for faster decision-making, streamlined administrative procedures, and simplified requirements for work permits.

Expressing their interest in expanding investments in Vietnam, especially in strategic infrastructure, emerging industries such as semiconductor, digital transformation, high technology, aviation, electronics, logistics, and clean energy, the representatives said they are willing to help Vietnam achieve its goal of becoming a developed country by 2045.

Vietnam needs to ramp up global promotion efforts to attract tourism and investment, improving its national competitiveness and global brand presence, they said.

Thanking the ambassadors, the Head of the EU Delegation, and European corporations in Vietnam for their frank, sincere, and constructive and responsible discussions, PM Chinh assured attendees that the Vietnamese government, along with relevant ministries and agencies, would carefully review all feedback from the event, as well as define specific tasks, timelines, expected outcomes, and measurable results to promptly address key issues and achieve major development goals.

PM Chinh stressed the need for global solidarity and approaches as well as coordinated efforts to effectively tackle fast-changing and unpredictable global challenges.

Reflecting on 35 years of Vietnam-EU diplomatic relations, PM Chinh praised the EUs support for Vietnams development, especially in the fields of economy, investment, and trade. He acknowledged Europes shared commitment to the Vietnamese peoples pursuit of freedom and prosperity.

PM Chinh stressed Vietnams economic growth targets of at least 8 per cent this year and called for Europes continued support to help the country reach the goal, thus maintaining momentum for double-digit growth in the coming years.

He highlighted Vietnams strategic advantages, including a large population, a prime geopolitical position in Asias growth region, and a stable, peaceful environment conducive to development. These factors, he said, make Vietnam an ideal hub for production, business, and exports.

PM Chinh affirmed Vietnams readiness to welcome high-level EU leaders for substantive visits aimed at fostering a more favourable environment for European businesses and improving Vietnams investment and business climate.

Mentioning existing challenges, the PM acknowledged procedural bottlenecks, compliance costs, slow decision-making, and issues related to taxation and customs. He assured that the Vietnamese government is committed to resolving these obstacles based on principles that benefit both European businesses and Vietnams economic growth.

Sharing Vietnams socio-economic achievements in 2024, the PM expressed his gratitude for the EUs contributions and the role of European businesses in the countrys success. Looking ahead, he underscored Vietnams determination to achieve even higher growth rates and become a major economic, trade, and investment hub in Asia by 2030.

The PM called on EU businesses to expand their operations in Vietnam, positioning the country as a key production and supply chain hub. He reassured European investors of Vietnams commitment to providing opportunities, trust, and necessary conditions, making the nation a safe and beneficial investment destination.

The Government leader noted that in 2024, Vietnam saw its international credit rating upgraded, and in response, the country has focused on three strategic breakthroughs on institutions, infrastructure, and high-quality human resources development as well as on open policies, seamless infrastructure connectivity, and smart governance.

He said to meet the demands of high-tech industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and quantum technology, Vietnam aims to train 50,000 semiconductor engineers. The Government, meanwhile, is set to cut at least 30 per cent of administrative procedures, reduce 30 per cent of administrative costs, and shorten decision-making time for investment and business approvals by at least 30 per cent.

The PM stated that Vietnam remains steadfast in maintaining independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, political stability, social order, and legal stability, ensuring a secure and stable business environment for European enterprises.

He called on European investors to carry out greater high-quality investments, boost advanced technology transfer, and support skilled workforce development for Vietnam in such areas as green economy, digital economy, circular economy, creative economy, knowledge-based economy, sharing economy, new energy, development of financial centres, green finance, marine economy, biotechnology, and healthcare.

Representatives of European businesses and organisations. (Photo: VNA)

PM Chinh also urged stronger collaboration between European businesses and their Vietnamese counterparts to assist the latters supply chain integration, market diversification, and turning into a long-term production and business hub for the EU. The leader also encouraged the European partners to engage in consultancy serving Vietnams institutional building and policymaking.

The PM called on the European business community to advocate for the swift ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) by nine remaining EU member states, as well as the European Commission (EC)s lifting the IUU yellow card against Vietnamese seafood exports. He called for their participation in the countrys project to grow 1 million hectares of low-emission rice in the Mekong Delta, and support for the EUs continue official development assistance (ODA) for Vietnam through bilateral cooperation channels.

The Vietnamese Government is committed to ensuring the foreign-invested sector remains a vital part of the national economy, while safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of enterprises, PM Chinh affirmed.

Largest foreign investors continue drive in Vietnam Vietnam continues to strengthen its position as a top destination for foreign investment, attracting significant inflows from the likes of Singapore, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, and Japan. Pham Duc Toan, consulting manager at Vietnam Investment Consulting, spoke with VIRs Kim Oanh about the current situation involving these markets.
Workers make garments for export at a Viet Hung Textile Garment Company'. (Photo: VNA/VNS)

Hanoi - The Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (VIETRADE) is organising a Trade Delegation to Japan, combined with participation in the World Expo Osaka 2025, to implement the 2025 National Trade Promotion Programme.

The trade delegation is expected to include 20 to 25 representatives from Vietnamese agencies, organisations and businesses. From May 24 to June 1, the delegation will visit Osaka, Aichi and Tokyo to engage in a dynamic series of trade promotion activities.

The programme aims to introduce Vietnams high-quality goods and services to Japanese businesses. It also focuses on establishing sustainable partnerships through business seminars and facilitating direct meetings between Vietnamese enterprises and business support organisations, importers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers and reputable manufacturers in Japan.

Additionally, it serves as a golden opportunity to promote Vietnamese businesses and brands on the international stage, confirming their position and competitive capabilities.

The programme is open to enterprises across all economic sectors, business and investment support organisations, industrial zones, export processing zones and representatives from ministries, sectors and localities.

Priority will be given to industries with strong export potential to Japan, including mechanical engineering, agriculture, food, furniture, wood products, plastics, toys, textiles, footwear, handicrafts, information technology, advanced technology, digital transformation and green energy. Special emphasis will be placed on products recognised as National Brands in 2024.

To ensure effectiveness, VIETRADE has called on businesses to register for participation before March 20.

Following the Ministry of Industry and Trade's plan, many localities across Vietnam have swiftly launched trade promotion activities to help businesses seize export opportunities in the Japanese market.

The Binh Thuan Department of Industry and Trade has recognised the programme as an effective method to open doors for potential business and export activities. As a result, the department has actively coordinated with relevant agencies and associations within the province to disseminate information and encourage local businesses to register for participation.

In 2024, Japan remained a key market for Binh Thuan, accounting for nearly 32 per cent of the provinces total export turnover, with major export products including shrimp, fish, other seafood, textiles and paper.
Vietnam's top female badminton player Nguyen Thuy Linh (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi  Vietnam's top female badminton player Nguyen Thuy Linh lost to Singapore's Yeo Jia Min in the YONEX German Open 2025 final on March 2, finishing as runner-up at the tournament for the second consecutive year.

Yeo, ranked 13th in the world and a former world number one in the junior rankings, was the top seed at the 2025 tournament. In their previous three encounters, Yeo won twice and lost once to Linh.

Despite strong support from the German crowd, Linh, placed 26th on the world rankings, struggled from the start. Yeo's powerful and precise smashes quickly established a seven-point lead at 9-2 before closing the first set 21-16.

The second set followed a similar pattern. After an early 3-3 tie, Yeo pulled ahead 7-3 and later 9-5. Linh fought back to 15-17 but struggled with accuracy as fatigue set in. She also made several errors, allowing Yeo to close out the match at 21-16.

With the runner-up finish, Linh earned 5,950 ranking points from the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and a prize of 9,120 USD. She will continue her European tour in France, England and Spain, aiming to improve her world ranking.

The German Open is a BWF World Tour Super 300 event with a total prize pool of 240,000 USD. In 2024, Linh also reached the final but lost to a Danish opponent.
Great-grandmother turned student celebrated for her academic excellence and dedication

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 3rd, 2025

A great-grandmother studying for a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Wrexham University has won an award for her academic performance and making an impact with her positive and dedicated approach.

Sixty-two-year-old, Helen Powell returned to study later in life to pursue a lifelong interest in Criminology.

Despite balancing a busy family life, Helen has fully embraced her studies, and has excelled in both her academic work, as well as her commitment to her peers and the wider community.

This award means a great deal to me., said Helen.

As someone who embarked on university in my sixties, I was apprehensive and wasnt entirely sure it would be right for me  but I feel that I have truly found myself at university.

From the fascinating course content to the incredibly supportive staff at the University, as well as my fantastic fellow students, I have been made to feel that I have a place here from the get-go. Wrexham University is an incredibly special place and Im so grateful to have this opportunity to learn.

Juggling family life and university is challenging at times but the support I have from my family and also my fantastic lecturers has been brilliant. I cant thank them enough for their support.

Dr Jo Prescott, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice, added: Helen is an exemplar student, who completely embodies the spirit of Wrexham University.

She has committed fully to her studies  shining academically through her strong grades and consistent engagement in lectures but also in the way that she supports and sets an inspiring example to her fellow students.

Helen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her studies and academic growth throughout her first year. The Criminology team couldnt be prouder of Helen, who is a truly deserving recipient of this award.

Criminology and Criminal Justice at Wrexham University is rated first in the UK for teaching quality and student experience in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025; as well as part of a subject area ranked first in the UK for teaching on my course in the National Student Survey 2024.

Further details about the course  including how to apply  can be found here.
MPs to challenge minister on future of Welsh rail network

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 3rd, 2025

MPs on the Welsh Affairs Committee will question Rail Minister Lord Hendy this week on the UK Governments plans to improve rail infrastructure in Wales.

The evidence session, scheduled for Wednesday 5 March at 14.30 in Committee Room 15 at the Palace of Westminster, will examine UK Government priorities for the rail network and the funding available for enhancements.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander recently acknowledged that Welsh rail infrastructure has received less enhancement funding compared to other UK regions.

However, the Secretary of State for Wales recently told the Committee that rail is her number one priority in the upcoming Government Spending Review.

The UK Government has previously identified the North and South Wales mainlines and the Wrexham to Liverpool line as priority projects.

However, MPs are expected to press Lord Hendy on whether these will proceed as planned and request further details on timelines and funding.

Committee members are also likely to ask about new stations along the South Wales Main Line, particularly in light of planning delays for Cardiff Parkway.

The classification of HS2 as a Wales-England project is another key point of contention.

First Minister of Wales Eluned Morgan has called the classification scandalous, and MPs are expected to ask Lord Hendy why it has not been reclassified as an England-only project, which would entitle Wales to a share of the funding.

Other anticipated topics include the sufficiency of Network Rails maintenance budget for Wales ageing railway infrastructure and the increasing impact of severe weather on the network.

Giving evidence alongside Lord Hendy will be Farha Sheikh, Interim Director for Rail Infrastructure North and West at the Department for Transport, and Nick Millington, Route Director for Wales at Network Rail.

The session will be streamed live on Parliamentlive.tv.
Wales Air Ambulance marks 24 years of its lifesaving service

This article is old - Published: Monday, Mar 3rd, 2025

Wales Air Ambulance is celebrating 24 years of lifesaving service, having attended more than 52,000 missions since its launch on St Davids Day in 2001.

The charity, which operates four helicopters and a fleet of rapid response vehicles, has grown into one of Europes largest and most advanced air ambulance services.

Operating 24/7, the Wales Air Ambulance provides hospital-standard treatment at the scene of incidents, with highly skilled NHS consultants and critical care practitioners on board.

It works in partnership with the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service (EMRTS) to ensure patients receive the best possible care and, if necessary, are transported directly to the most appropriate hospital.

Since introducing night-time flying in December 2020, the service has been able to reach even more people during emergencies.

The charity relies entirely on public donations, requiring 11.2 million annually to keep its helicopters and vehicles operational.

Dr Sue Barnes, Wales Air Ambulances Chief Executive, said: Were delighted to be celebrating our 24th anniversary of being there for the people of Wales when they need us most. Were proud of how far we have come from having a single aircraft based at Swansea Airport to the four helicopters and rapid response vehicles we have across Wales.

The Charity would like to say a huge thank you to all its loyal supporters, its staff, volunteers, trustees, medics, pilots and allocators  past and present.

Your passion and determination are the strong foundation upon which Wales Air Ambulance has been built. Its because of you that were able to serve Wales and save lives 24/7.

To mark the milestone, the charity has relaunched its Coffee and Cake fundraising event.

Supporters are encouraged to host their own gatherings during March to help raise funds for the service.

For more information on how to get involved, visit www.walesairambulance.com/coffee-and-cake.
The Sierra County Sheriff's Office has arrested a New York man who allegedly defrauded an area resident of almost $20,000.

In September of last year, the Sheriff's Office received a report from a person in Sierra County who felt they had been scammed with a car purchase on Facebook Marketplace.

The person had paid nearly $20,000 for a car that was never delivered.

Investigating further, officials found that the suspect had used fake information to set up his Facebook account and create the ad.

When the suspect received the payment, they immediately deleted all communication methods, which prevented the victim from being able to reach them.

Investigators were able to identify the suspect in December of last year as Donald Gibson of New York, and obtained a warrant for his arrrest.

On January 8 of this year, the New York Police Department alerted the Sierra County Sheriff's Office that they had taken Gibson into custody.

Gibson was extradited to Sierra County by the U.S. Marshals Service, and is currently being held on $140,000 bail at the Wayne Brown Correctional Facility in Nevada County.
Over a thousand protesters got together today near Congressman Amodei's office in Reno, after requests for a meeting have been denied.

The protest started around noon and was sponsored by a few local activist organizations in response to the recent passing of the sweeping federal budget bill.

Protesters say they want Congressman Amodei to hold a town hall, so they can express their concerns with potential impacts that they bill could have on Nevadans that rely on federal programs.

"This isn't rocket science, everybody knows that we don't need to tear apart Medicare, or Medicaid, that we don't need to take away protections for the disabled," said Christiane Brown.

Organizers say they have been trying to meet with Congressman Amodei for several weeks and have yet to receive a firm response.

"If he wont host a Town Hall for his constituents, well bring his constituents to him," says Kimberly Carden with Indivisible Northern Nevada.

People in attendance also voiced their opinions on Elon Musk, federal job firings, as well as immigration.

Congressman Amodei is set to be on another congressional break in March, and protesters say they plan to return.

"I anticipate that there is going to be more protests. In fact, I do not anticipate, I know that there are going to be more protests. As far as my group Indivisible Northern Nevada, we have already got another one on the books that will be coordinated within the next couple of weeks," said Kimberly Carden.

In the meantime, protesters say they are going to continue reaching out to Congressman Amodei and his team, looking for statements or responses to questions.
Jason Shipman, Principal at Florence Drake Elementary School in Sparks, was announced as Senator Cortez Masto's guest to President Trump's upcoming address.

The 2025 Presidential Address to Congress takes place this Tuesday, March 4.

Florence Drake Elementary is one of the highest performing Title I schools in Nevada, and has been recognized as a 2024 Elementary and Secondary Education Act Distinguished School, and a 2022 National Blue Ribbon School.

Senator Cortez Masto pulled from her own experience in her announcement, saying, "Im the product of Nevada public schools  from kindergarten all the way to my time at UNR  and I know the difference a good education can make in a childs life."

"As schools across the country face the potential cuts to of critical federal funding, I wont abandon our educators. Im proud to work with Nevada leaders like Principal Shipman to ensure our students have everything they need to thrive."

Senator Cortez Masto has made supporting education a critical focus, including efforts like her legislation to increase the number of mental health professionals in schools, which was signed into law as part of the Safer Communities Act.
The Northern Nevada Children's Cancer Foundation (NNCCF) is reaching out for your support; you can back the City of Sparks or the City of Reno in their latest fundraiser.

The Shave for the Brave event kicks off on March 3 at 8:00 a.m. at the NNCCF office, located at 3550 Barron Way in Reno.

The event, usually held each year around St. Patrick's Day, asks the community to go bald in support of children's cancer research.

Shave for the Brave is a friendly competition between the City of Sparks and the City of Reno, as represented by their respective council members Donald Abbott from Sparks Ward 1, and Devon Reese from Reno Ward 5.

Residents from each city are urged to donate to the councilmember of their choosing to help their side win - and both councilmembers will be shaving their heads, regardless of the outcome.

Donations support the St. Baldrick's Foundation, which has a mission of raising funds to help conquer kids cancer.

You can find links to donate for Councilmember Abbott or Councilmember Reese in our News Links section.
Reno Police has released body camera footage from a deadly police shooting at Renown Regional Medical Center early last month.

Authorities 31-year-old Kupaa Kea of Sparks was shot multiple times by police after Sparks Police initially searched for the suspect in a battery with a deadly weapon case where he allegedly hit a woman with a firearm.

Officers were able to find his car near Montello and 9th Streets. When they tried to stop him, he drove off, running several red lights, eventually driving onto Mill Street to Renown's entrance.

Police say in the video that after officers blocked his SUV, he showed a weapon forcing them to react and shoot him. Afterwards, they say they found a gun in his hand, inside the car.

He later died of his injuries inside the hospital.

The investigation is ongoing.

**** VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED ****

FEBRUARY 19, 2025:

The Washoe County Regional Medical Examiners Office has identified the man who died after being shot by Reno Police officers outside Renown on Mill Street.

31-year-old Kupaa Kea of Sparks was shot multiple times by police according to a release from the Medical Examiner's Office.

He was admitted to Renown Regional Medical Center for treatment after the shooting and remained there until he died on February 15.

The Medical Examiner's Office determined the manner of death was homicide and the cause was multiple gunshot wounds.

The Washoe County Sheriffs Office is handling the law enforcement investigation.

---

Update (2/18/2025, 2:50 p.m.):

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office has reported that the man who was shot by police in an incident outside of Renown Hospital on Mill Street has passed away from his injuries.

The identity of the man will not be released until the Washoe County Regional Medical Examiner's Office has had the chance to make the appropriate notifications to family.

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the shooting.

Update February 9, 1:00 p.m.:

The Reno Police Department tells us they initially began working with the Sparks Police this morning to find a wanted subject. After evading a traffic stop, the subject drove to the Renown Hospital on Mill Street.

A shooting broke out between the subject and four Reno Police Department officers at the entrance of the emergency room.

The subject was taken inside the hospital with unknown conditions. None of the officers were hurt.

Reno Police say there is no threat to the public.

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation.

Renown Health released this response to the incident:

Renown Regional Medical Center is on lockdown after a shooting occurred off campus on Mill Street in the morning of Sunday, Feb. 9. As part of Renowns emergency management plan for any public disturbance, this lockdown was taken out of an abundance of caution and helps maintain safety by monitoring all entrances. A bullet hit a window of the emergency room, however, no bystanders on the Renown Regional campus were harmed. While Renown Health leaders work with law enforcement to investigate the scene of the crime, Renowns emergency room physicians and healthcare workers remain ready to provide safe and excellent care for those in need of care. To keep the emergency room entrance clear, walk-ins are being routed to the nearby Tahoe Tower entrance and ambulances and helicopters continue to arrive with patients in typical fashion.

Original story February 9, 11:00 a.m.:

Multiple police officers and Washoe County Deputies are in front of the Renown Hospital on Mill Street and Kirman Avenue.

The Reno Police Department says its its working an incident at the hospital but there is no active threat.

Investigators are asking anyone who doesn't need treatment to avoid the area at this time. Those in need of treatment can use the main entrance.

Mill Street is shut down in both directions in front of the hospital entrance.

We have a crew on scene and will provide you with updates as we learn more.
Upscale glamping company, Under Canvas is opening its first California location this summer just 10 minutes from the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park, right on the YARTS route.

Set on acres of pristine forest, Under Canvas Yosemite is a secluded retreat that immerses guests in the natural wonders of the Sierra Nevada Mountains while still giving them easy access to the parks iconic landmarks.

Sleep under towering pines in stylish canvas tents featuring king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, and private decksblending comfort with the unparalleled beauty of nature. Wake up to the scent of pine trees and the gentle sounds of nature, then head out to explore Yosemites famed attractions, from the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome to the breathtaking waterfalls of Bridalveil and Yosemite Falls. After a day of adventure, return to camp for alfresco dining, nightly smores around the fire, and guided programming under the stars.

Stargaze from inside your tent at Under Canvas Yosemite. (Courtesy of Under Canvas Yosemite)

With world-class hiking, rock climbing, and scenic vistas just minutes away, guests can join expert-led excursions, from guided hikes and rock-climbing adventures to drives that take in Yosemites stunning landscapes. Back at camp, unwind with open-air yoga sessions, live acoustic music, and craft cocktails that make every moment as memorable as the days adventures.

Whether youre hiking the Mist Trail, marveling at Tunnel View, or relaxing under a starry sky, Under Canvas Yosemite is the perfect basecamp for experiencing one of Americas most beloved national parks. With curated adventure offerings, regionally inspired seasonal cuisine, and an iconic setting, youll embrace the magic of the outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

Under Canvas Yosemites unforgettable stays begin on May 15, 2025. Reserve your tent now and experience Yosemite National Park in a new way.

// 30801 Hardin Flat Rd. (Groveland), undercanvas.com

The luxe tents at Under Canvas Yosemite (Courtesy of Under Canvas Yosemite)
















When Elaine Hutchisons 11-year-old French bulldog, Sundae, died in January 2023, she lost her dearest companion and "the only family I [was] close to." At the time, she could think of just one person who would be able to listen without judgment to the depth of her grief  a friend who works as an animal chaplain.

Animal chaplains not only use a variety of spiritual practices, rituals and ceremonies to honor sick and dying animals  much like church chaplains do with people  but also offer a safe space for pet owners to process complex emotions when coping with their loved ones illness or death.

Members only

"An animal chaplain can value the life of the animal you loved with you," says Hutchison, 69, a ghostwriter living in Arlington, Washington. She was so moved by her experience that she became ordained as an animal chaplain this past June.

Pet loss is difficult for older adults

Fifty-five percent of adults ages 50 to 80 have a pet, according to the 2024 National Poll on Healthy Aging, with more than half owning multiple pets. More than three-quarters of pet owners report that their pets reduce stress, and almost as many credit them with providing a sense of purpose.

When a pet dies, research shows it can negatively impact older adults' health. In a 2023 study, 38 percent of older participants reported a decrease in physical activity, and 47 percent said that their emotional health declined following their pet's death.

In a 2021 study published in the journal BMC Geriatrics, researchers  hoping to develop a greater understanding of the impact of companion animal death on older women living alone  highlighted how important it is for their own well-being that they have emotional support and grief rituals when a pet dies.

Companion animals are more than 'just a pet'

Rob Gierka and Karen Duke of Raleigh, North Carolina, founded and run Pet Chaplain to offer information and services for pet grief. "The cultural story we have is, 'It's just an animal, it's just a pet. You can just get another one and youll feel better.' And that really can't be further from the truth of what people actually experience," says Duke, who uses the term "veterinary chaplain." "Every pet is unique. They're not easily replaced. And we need to honor that relationship by acknowledging and honoring the grief that people feel."

And even if they do have spiritual guidance as a regular part of their human lives, it doesn't always translate when a pet passes, Duke says. "Some people may go to their minister looking for relief and be told that their pet doesn't have a soul and wont go to heaven. That's certainly very off-putting and disenfranchising."

What does an animal chaplain do?
Lighthouses beckon to us  whether from land or sea. Each lighthouse has its own daymark, a highly visible marking that acts as a navigational guide. [Lighthouses] are a symbol of clarity, of being able to find your way safely in the dark, says Joy Knoblauch, an associate professor of architecture at the University of Michigan. And there is a romance to the navigation practices of the sea. Almost all are located in gorgeous settings, making them irresistible to visit and photograph.

We also are drawn to them when we think of the life of the lighthouse keeper, the solitude and reliability of it, Knoblauch adds. There is a romance to both sides, wandering in the dark as well as keeping the light on for others who need guidance. The stories of lighthouses  the threat of danger and promise of safety  make them especially appealing to cross-generational travelers.

Members only

Henry Gonzalez, the president of the United States Lighthouse Society, got bit by the lighthouse bug and later discovered his great-great-grandfather had been a lighthouse keeper in Spain. Gonzalez, 67, often took his own grandchildren to lighthouses to inspire their love when they were barely tall enough to climb some. Families enjoy the challenge of seeing this tall, noble , historic structure and wanting to climb it and, in a sense, be living part of its history, he says.

Multigenerational travel continues to rise in popularity. At 14 percent, family or multigenerational trips are the top motivation for planned domestic travel for travelers 50-plus, according to AARPs Travel Trends research. Parents and grandparents want to create special memories for their children and grandchildren, and to enhance their childrens education through travels ability to provide cultural, social and historical insights, said Peter Bopp, the former director of research for the Family Travel Association, in a news release.

Some lighthouses even offer overnight stays so families can more deeply immerse themselves in the culture, history, and natural setting. When my children were young, my family spent a delightful overnight at Rhode Islands Rose Island Lighthouse. Along with the exhilarating boat ride to the island, my kids loved hearing stories of how the lighthouse had saved ships from danger and also enjoyed the variety of seabirds on the rocky shore.

Many lighthouses have circular staircases you can climb to gain 360-degree views of dramatic scenery. The sites often include restored keepers quarters and museums. For those unable to climb, several offer virtual experiences.

Lighthouse aficionados Gonzalez and Kraig Anderson, the webmaster of Lighthousefriends.com (which shares information about U.S. lighthouses  all of which Anderson has visited  and Canadian ones, too), recommend these stellar sites:

Cape Hatteras Light Station is the tallest lighthouse in the U.S. Courtesy NPS

Cape Hatteras Light Station, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina

This eye-catching 1870 structure once guided mariners through a treacherous section of the eastern coastline known as the Graveyard of the Atlantic, where strong currents collide. At nearly 200 feet, its the tallest U.S. lighthouse. In 1999, the station, its keepers quarters, and other outbuildings were relocated to protect them from erosion. Currently, the lighthouse is closed to climbing until the summer of 2026 for restoration. The outside areas and Museum of the Sea, which focuses on Outer Banks history, are open. When Gonzalez took his twin grandsons to visit and climb the lighthouse there, only one was tall enough to climb. Gonzalez appealed to the head ranger who  coincidentally  was a twin himself and he allowed both to make the trek.

Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse in Maryland sits in the Chesapeake Bay. Courtesy Kraig Anderson/Lighthousefriends.com

Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse, Chesapeake Bay, Maryland

Located a mile offshore, this 1875 screw-pile (built on piles screwed into the water) station is a National Historic Landmark and an active beacon for navigation. With its red roof, it looks like a cozy, water-top cottage. Boat tours (2 hours, $90, plus fees) to the lighthouse with a docent are offered seasonally from the Annapolis Maritime Museum and require mobility to enter the structure. As the manager of restoration at this water-locked lighthouse, Gonzalez spent a lot of his blood, sweat, and tears there. He also had a key, so he and his grandsons spent a memorable overnight there in sleeping bags, learning to be lighthouse keepers.
The CRAC Pension Scheme (the Scheme) has secured a 2.8m full scheme buy-in with Just Group (Just). The Scheme is sponsored by The Careers Research and Advisory Centre (CRAC) Limited (the Charity), a registered charity based in Cambridge which provides research, intelligence and innovation services for those who support the career development of people of all ages and across all sectors. Following a pensioner-only buy-in with Just in 2014, the Scheme and Charity Trustees have been keen to secure the remaining benefits of the Scheme. It was estimated that the shortfall had fallen to an acceptable level in early 2024 so asset derisking, data and benefit preparation started at pace. Reassurance of the affordability was provided by Justs innovative price monitoring and bulk quotation service, Beacon, allowing the Scheme to proceed to transaction. The 2.8m transaction secures the benefits of all 30 deferred members and 10 uninsured pensioner members and completes the buy-in of all remaining Scheme liabilities. Broadstone provided annuity broking advice. This added to their existing appointment for Scheme Actuary, administration and investment consultancy services. Legal advice was provided to the Trustees by CMS and to Just by their in-house team. George Whitaker, Deal Lead, Broadstone said: I am pleased to have helped the Trustees and Charity achieve this significant milestone. When Broadstone was first appointed to provide actuarial and administration services in 2022, the Scheme had an estimated buy-out shortfall of over 3m. The transformation in under 3 years has been dramatic and is testament to the hard work of the Trustees, Charity and advisers during that period. It is great to demonstrate once again that well-prepared schemes of all sizes can achieve a cost-effective insurance transaction in a busy market. Clare Viney, CEO of CRAC, commented: We were keen to complete this transaction to secure the benefits for our employees past and present but of course subject to ensuring value when using the Charitys reserves. Just was a natural place to start given our existing relationship, but what was really attractive was the ability to obtain more certainty on the likely contribution using the Beacon service. We are particularly grateful to Broadstones SM&RT Insure team for their expert guidance and support throughout this process, to ensure a smooth and efficient outcome. We extend our thanks to all parties involved for their support and collaboration. Rosie Mills, Business Development Analyst, Just said: A repeat transaction with an existing client is always pleasing  its a strong endorsement that we are delivering great service and doing the right thing for members. Were very pleased that our innovative price monitoring and bulk quotation service, Beacon, offered the Trustees and Charity the reassurance they needed to proceed. We enjoyed working with Broadstone and the Trustees to secure the benefits for all the members of the CRAC Pension Scheme, it was a great example of there being a vibrant insurance de-risking market for schemes of all sizes and how Just are delivering outstanding service to small schemes, large schemes and everything in between.


By Andrew Pollard, Insurance Specialist at SAS UK & Ireland. Special deals and tailored offers have become the norm, with customers expecting personalised experiences as opposed to standardised policies. Though this adaptation may seem like an easy win, insurance companies need to ensure theyre pricing these appropriately - or risk making a loss. Dynamic Actuarial Modeling (DAM) is proving a game changer here, simplifying and speeding up the premium creation and maintenance processes, ensuring that they are well-governed, traceable and easily summarised in comprehensive reports. Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), this technology incorporates new data types, such as low-frequency climate risk data, into its modelling to give a more accurate overview. How AI helps actuaries enhance their modelling

The insurance industry is experiencing a profound transformation, fueled by technological advancements and evolving revenue models. In this dynamic environment, actuaries must refine every aspect of their operations to stay competitive. Central to this transformation is pricing - a critical process that directly impacts profitability, market reach, brand integrity, and long-term success. DAM revolutionises pricing by simplifying premium creation and management while ensuring robust governance, traceability, and effortless reporting. This equips actuaries with advanced modelling tools, including transparent machine learning models that promote clarity and informed decision-making. By offering diverse modelling options and actionable insights, DAM makes even the most intricate pricing challenges manageable, driving innovation and precision. In an era of data abundance, capturing portfolio complexity and heterogeneity is essential. DAM enables insurers to compute premiums tailored to individual risks, ensuring competitive rates that reflect nuanced realities. Integrating cutting-edge technology into the pricing process allows actuaries to not only enhance operational efficiency but also deliver value-aligned, data-driven decisions that resonate with todays dynamic market demands. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing such advanced tools is not merely an option - it is imperative for insurers seeking to thrive in an increasingly competitive and customer-centric world. The changing environment

The way people navigate their lives has undergone a profound transformation in recent years, largely driven by the digital revolution that has been seen across industries. For example, new work models have also come into place, meaning flexible working arrangements and remote opportunities are now the norm. Over half of companies report increases in remote employees and nearly three-quarters of departments are expected to include remote roles in the near future. This has given rise to portfolio careers, where individuals blend multiple jobs, freelance gigs, or side hustles, and has significantly reshaped traditional life choices, such as home and car ownership. For many, these once-essential purchases are now viewed as burdensome liabilities. Younger generations increasingly prefer the flexibility of renting, sharing, or using app-based services. This shift in consumer behaviour has had significant implications for the insurance industry. To remain competitive, insurers must adapt to changing demands with tailored solutions and seamless digital experiences. Modern customers expect intuitive, user-friendly platforms and a frictionless process across all touchpoints. They also require insurance products that reflect their evolving lifestyles, such as pay-as-you-go auto policies, on-demand professional indemnity coverage, and health insurance that rewards active habits. Learning from what works

Insurers are facing increasing pressure to deliver competitive, personalised pricing while managing data complexity and cost efficiency. Real-world use of DAM demonstrates how it can simplify data integration, improve data quality, and reduce costs.

Its intuitive, visual modelling interface accelerates data exploration and discovery, enabling insurers to blend traditional methods with advanced machine learning techniques - such as neural networks and gradient boosting. These can be mastered quickly, enabling teams to perform granular scenario comparisons and analyse large datasets with ease. This empowers insurers to make agile, data-driven pricing decisions tailored to their specific objectives. To accelerate the deployment of complex premium models and real-time pricing strategies, actuaries benefit from underwriting engines that support advanced decision-making workflows. These systems allow premium models and underwriting policies to move seamlessly from rate books into decision flows, enabling thorough testing without requiring time-consuming re-coding. By incorporating elements such as comparative market analysis and behavioural data, these tools facilitate the creation of dynamic pricing models and discount strategies that align with evolving market demands and consumer behaviours. For example, Spanish insurer Caser Seguros has already harnessed DAM, generating results such as refined pricing models and enhanced customer retention. Looking to the future

As actuaries face increasing pressure to meet evolving customer expectations and navigate a dynamic marketplace, the expanding role of AI in actuarial modeling has never been more crucial. The modern insurance landscape demands greater agility and precision, and AI-powered tools enable actuaries to develop more accurate and personalised pricing models that reflect the unique needs and behaviours of individual customers. As the industry continues to embrace these tools, AI will play an integral role in helping actuaries stay ahead of the curve, offering personalised coverage and dynamic pricing models that meet the demands of todays fast-paced, data-driven world. Learn more about dynamic actuarial modelling.


Tech giants Google and Amazon have revealed measures to address the inadvertent placement of ads on a notorious website hosting child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This comes following under mounting pressure from bipartisan lawmakers in the US.

Amazon has taken the step of refunding advertisers whose ads appeared on the problematic site. While Google has blocked advertising on the site, it has not yet disclosed whether it will provide similar reimbursements. In a letter to Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Amazon's Brian Huseman, VP of public policy, acknowledged a "clear breach" of their strict policies against ads appearing alongside such content.

This action follows demands for accountability from the senators, triggered by an Adalytics report.

https://www.adgully.com/brand-safety-nightmare-when-clicks-fund-the-unspeakable-part-1-156419.html

The report revealed that ads from major corporations and U.S. government agencies were displayed on imgbb.com, a CSAM-hosting site, through ad networks operated by Google and Amazon.

A key finding of the Adalytics report was the lack of page URL-level reporting available to many advertisers, preventing them from identifying specific placements, including those on imgbb.com.

In response, ad verification firm DoubleVerify announced its intention to provide URL-level reporting, enhancing transparency and brand safety. Similarly, Amazon is updating its Demand-Side Platform (DSP) to include new page-level reporting via its Traffic Events API.

This incident has heightened concerns about the efficacy of existing brand safety measures and the accountability of digital advertising platforms in preventing the monetization of illegal content. Lawmakers are pushing for increased transparency and stricter enforcement of policies to ensure ads are not associated with harmful content.
Fixit, the leading waterproofing solutions brand from Pidilite Industries Ltd., launched an exciting new ad campaign featuring the legendary Bollywood actor - Amitabh Bachchan. This campaign revolves around a catchy and relatable jingle, "Water Proofing Ka Baap," sung by Bachchan himself. Using his signature style, the ad humorously highlights the benefits of Dr. Fixits advanced waterproofing solutions, ensuring homes stay dry and protected no matter how heavy it rains outside.

Bharat Puri, Managing Director of Pidilite Industries Ltd., expressed his enthusiasm: We aimed to bring a fresh and engaging approach to educate homeowners about the importance of waterproofing. Bachchans powerful presenceboth as a narrator and as a charactercombined with the humour-infused storytelling, makes the message both entertaining and memorable. Fixit has been the trusted expert in waterproofing for years, and this campaign reaffirms our commitment to keeping homes safe, leak-proof, and worry-free.

Playing the role of the husband, Bachchan adds his signature style to the humour, making the ad even more relatable and entertaining. The catchy lines"Paani hai baahar, sookha hai andar, Dono ko never mix it - Waterproofing ka sach mein, Baap hai Fixit."reinforce the brands expertise in keeping homes leak-free.

Piyush Pandey, Chief Advisor at Ogilvy India, explains, "The partnership with Pidilite, Ogilvy and Prasoon Pandey (Corcoise Films) are legendary. To celebrate the 25 years of Dr. Fixit, this time Prasoon wrote the lyrics apart from directing the film. Bachchan, in his typical style of humour and singing, has added magic to this film. His spontaneity and humour make this commercial watchable repeatedly. Not much logic can be written on this, just enjoy the magic."

As Dr. Fixit celebrates its 25th anniversary, the new TVC plays an integral role in its broader marketing strategy, encompassing a comprehensive communication plan across television, digital, OTT platforms, and various other channels. The brand seeks to strengthen and reaffirm its position as the ultimate waterproofing expert.
Millions of people, endless stories, and infinite connections came alive on the banks of Prayagraj, forming a mosaic of faith, culture, and community at the recently concluded Maha Kumbh 2025.

Across several touchpoints HUL brands joined the pilgrims journey creating meaningful connections. From Vims Maha Kadhai Bhog and dishwashing stations to Lifebuoys spectacular drone show to serving consumers through its various brands, HUL has been delighting consumers along the way.

Lifebuoy drone show

Lifebuoy, a brand with over a century of excellence in hygiene has taken a leap of transformation by enhancing its products to offer advanced skin protection.

To mark and celebrate this significant milestone for the brand, Lifebuoy orchestrated a mesmerising drone show at the Maha Kumbh. For millions of consumers present at the Maha Kumbh, witnessing this spectacle was not just a moment of awe, but a testament to Lifebuoys enduring commitment to innovation, cultural roots and creating meaningful connections with cross-generational consumers.

Watch the video here.

Vims epic feat: Maha Kadhai Record

Vim, Indias leading dishwashing brand, made history at the Maha Kumbh by setting the Vim Maha Kadhai record. Under the expertise of celebrity Chef Vishnu Manohar, approximately 10,000 kg of halwa was prepared in a gigantic kadhai. This delicious treat was shared with over 2 lakh people at the Maha Kumbh.

The Maha kadhai stood 6.5 feet tall with its stand, had a diameter of 15 feet, and weighed a staggering 1,800 kg. Its surface was crafted from iron and copper, and the spatula used weighed 180 kg. To create the halwa, around 1,300 kg of ghee was used, and the Maha Kadhai was cleaned with Vim bar.

In addition, Vim partnered with the Om Namah Shivay Seva Group, the driving force behind the worlds largest 24x7 bhandaras at Maha Kumbh 2025. Vim has been supporting community meals (bhandaras) for over 1 crore pilgrims. The bhandaras also featured innovative Vim solar-powered branded light poles  Chamakta Chaurahas  for enhanced visibility and dishwashing stations to maintain hygiene.
The Ranveer Allahbadia controversy  and many such incidents in the recent past  has demonstrated the need for a strong public relations strategy for the influencer and content creator ecosystem. Crisis management is a strong forte of PR and navigating such challenges while maintaining brand integrity and public trust is where PR can play a crucial role. From crisis management to reputation building - PR strategies help influencers strike the right balance between creative freedom and responsible communication.

In this article, Adgully explores how PR can be a game-changer in guiding influencers through the complexities of the digital age and proactively prevent potential backlash.

Influencers: A Different Kind of Brand

The first thing to understand is that influencers are a brandbut a different kind of brand, explains Aakanksha Gupta, Founder & CEO, The Other Circle. Unlike traditional brands, where emotional connections are built over time, influencers already have an existing emotional rapport with their audience. This makes their reputation management more sentiment-driven than logic-based.



She emphasises that public perception is influenced by this emotional baggage. If an influencer steps outside their established persona, the reactions can be extreme. PR professionals must recognise that they are managing moral perceptions, not just legal battles, she adds.

Tarunjeet Rattan, Managing Partner, Nucleus Public Relations, reinforces this perspective, highlighting that many influencers assume they can handle their reputation alone. Most influencers need to be sensitised to the bigger implications of what they showcase and how to handle issues when they arise. Too much, too soon, and without any training makes it tough for them to manage when they shift gears to compete with the bigger names.



Viren Vesuwala, Lead - PR & Corp Comm, White Rivers Media, notes that the dynamics of influencer-brand collaborations have changed dramatically. Brands today dont just look at follower countsthey analyse engagement, audience trust, and the influencers ability to align with brand values. PR plays a critical role in ensuring these collaborations are meaningful and authentic.



Crisis Management: Controversies Are Emotional, Not Just Logical

Influencer controversies often spark emotional reactions rather than rational discussions. Parul Parmar, Co-Founder, NewNarrative Media, highlights that PR professionals must act swiftly, crafting responses that acknowledge concerns while demonstrating accountability. In a cancel-culture era, PR turns setbacks into growth opportunities. Instead of immediate apologies, a strategic crisis response plan helps influencers maintain trust.



Building on this, Jyothsna Das, AVP Corporate Communications, DS Group, stresses on the importance of preemptive reputation management. Media training, crisis preparedness, and regulatory guidance help influencers navigate scrutiny. They must be ready with a crisis playbook and an authentic engagement strategy.



She cites CarryMinatis controversy as an example where effective PR helped him reposition his narrative, allowing him to continue his career without major reputational damage.

Viren Anand notes that influencer crises differ from brand crises. A brand can pivot or rebrand, but an influencers persona is deeply personal. PR must craft responses that feel human and authentic, rather than like corporate damage control.

The Dos and Donts of Influencer Reputation Management

According to Parul Parmar, influencers must balance authenticity with discretion. She shares a PR-driven checklist:

Dos:

Be Authentic: Audiences quickly spot insincerity, so staying true to ones voice is crucial.

Engage Thoughtfully: Professional responses to feedback build trust and community.

Choose Smart Collaborations: Partnering with brands that align with personal values enhances credibility.

Donts:

Avoid Rash Reactions: Impulsive responses to criticism often backfire.

Steer Clear of Misleading Content: Clickbait and false information erode trust.

Dont Over-Commercialise: Excessive brand partnerships can make influencers seem transactional rather than genuine.

Tarunjeet Rattan advises, Create an image that is rooted in your truth so you dont have to lie and remember 200 things to maintain a fake persona. In this way, when you have a misstep, you can make it part of the dance. Dont be tone-deaf and ignore your PR teams advice.

Balancing Creative Freedom and Social Responsibility

Influencers thrive on creative freedom, but in Indias moralistic digital landscape, they must tread carefully. Not every controversy requires an apology, says Aakanksha Gupta. Sometimes, standing firm is necessary. PR professionals must assess the situation carefully and determine if damage control is even required. She also points out that increased content accessibility has heightened scrutiny. A child can access adult comedy despite parental controls. This shifts responsibility onto content creators, making PR guidance on content boundaries crucial.

Viren Vesuwala further elaborates, Influencers must be mindful of how their content is perceived across different audience segments. PR helps bridge the gap between creative freedom and responsible storytelling.

Influencers vs. Traditional Celebrities: The Reputation Challenge

The challenges influencers face are distinct from those of traditional celebrities. Aakanksha Gupta explains, Bollywood stars are admired but distant; influencers, however, are accessible, making their controversies feel personal to audiences. This is why influencers face harsher backlash than mainstream celebrities.

PRs role, therefore, is to manage this heightened emotional engagement. Jyothsna Das cites Bhuvan Bams approach as a case study: By shifting focus towards his social impact projects, he was able to counter criticism and reinforce a responsible influencer image.

Viren Vesuwala points out that influencer PR strategies should mirror the agility of digital culture. Unlike celebrities, influencers are constantly in conversation with their audience. PR must evolve rapidly to match the speed of online discourse.

PRs Role in Compliance and Regulatory Guidance

With regulatory advisories from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB) and organisations like ASCI (Advertising Standards Council of India) tightening disclosure norms, PR is instrumental in ensuring compliance. Parul Parmar states, PR educates influencers on disclosure norms, vets partnerships for compliance, and refines content strategies to align with legal frameworks while preserving creativity.

Adding to this, Jyothsna Das points out, Many influencers faced backlash when ASCI tightened paid promotion rules. PR teams helped them adapt, ensuring proper disclosures and regulatory compliance, which reduced negative reactions.

Tarunjeet Rattan elaborates, PR can be the bridge between the influencer community and the brand world, and it has been unofficially doing this for quite some time now. However, if we were to take a more structured approach, PR is aptly placed to educate both worlds on expectations. Brands need to know how to put down an ask, and influencers need to understand how to manage those asks without compromising their integrity and content.

Viren Vesuwala emphasises that regulatory compliance isnt just about following rulesits about maintaining audience trust. Transparent collaborations create long-term credibility. PR ensures influencers are not just compliant but also seen as ethical brand partners.

The Future of PR in Influencer Marketing

PR is evolving beyond traditional media relations to encompass strategic reputation management, crisis preparedness, and compliance. Parul Parmar predicts, PR professionals are leveraging data-driven insightstracking sentiment, engagement, and risk factorsto preempt controversies and build influencer resilience.

With the influencer space maturing, PRs focus is shifting from short-term damage control to long-term brand building. As Aakanksha Gupta puts it, PR professionals must be as bold as the influencers they represent, tackling situations with strategic finesse and empathy.

Viren Vesuwala adds, The next phase of influencer marketing will see PR integrating AI-driven reputation management, predictive analytics, and proactive brand alignment to create sustainable influencer careers.

Also Read: How PR Can Help Brands Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption in India
The Indian Society of Advertisers (ISA) successfully concluded its CEO Conference 2025, a landmark event that brought together top business leaders, AI pioneers, and industry experts to discuss AI: Making Businesses Future-Ready. Held at ITC Grand Central, Mumbai, the conference featured high-impact discussions on the transformative role of AI in business, marketing, and advertising.

One of the key highlights of the event was the unveiling of ISAs new logo, marking a fresh and forward-looking identity for the organization as it continues to lead the way in shaping the future of advertising.

Sunil Kataria, Chairman, ISA, emphasized the organizations commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, stating, "With AI redefining the rules of business, the ISA CEO Conference 2025 has provided a platform for leaders to share insights, debate challenges, and explore AI-powered opportunities. The unveiling of our new logo symbolizes our evolving journey as an enabler of industry transformation."

The conference featured keynote sessions, expert panel discussions, and real-world case studies exploring how AI is revolutionizing consumer engagement, creativity, and business efficiencies. Speakers highlighted AIs role in predictive marketing, automation, and personalization, while also addressing ethical considerations and the need for responsible AI deployment.

"AI is reshaping businesses to be more adaptive, intelligent, and future-ready. At Google, we see three key AI capabilities shaping this transformation. Multimodal AI is enriching context to enable deeply personalized experiences. Intuitive information discovery is changing how users search and interact with information, creating frictionless, intent-driven experiences. Multi-Agent systems are automating complex workflows, boosting productivity and accelerating innovation. With AI already powering many aspects of marketingmore than 80% of advertisers are using at least one AI-driven Google Search Ads productearly adopters are seeing measurable gains in efficiency and performance. As AI evolves, brands that fully embrace it will drive growth, strengthen customer relationships, and lead in the AI-first world," said Roma Datta Chobey, Managing Director, Digital Native Industries, Google India.

The conference featured distinguished speakers, including: Rohit Jawa, CEO, Hindustan Unilever; Kumar Venkatasubramanian, CEO, Procter & Gamble India; Roma Datta, Managing Director, Google; Abheek Singhi, Managing Director, BCG; and Ranjani Mani, Director and Country Head, Generative AI, Microsoft, among others.

AI and human creativity together have the potential to redefine marketing. BCG experience shows that the time for insighting, creation and execution can reduce by as much as 90 percent and increase effectiveness by 30-50 percent, added Abheek Singhi, Managing Director and Senior Partner, BCG.

With AI-powered technologies becoming a critical driver of business growth, the discussions at the conference underscored the need for organizations to embrace data-driven decision-making, AI-led creativity, and ethical frameworks.

The launch of ISAs new logo at the event marks a pivotal moment for the organization, reflecting its commitment to innovation, progress, and its evolving role as a thought leader in the advertising industry.

"The new logo reflects the times we live in currently. It draws upon ISA's strengths and rich legacy, while adding elements of the digital age to make it relevant in today's world," said Pops KV Sridhar, Global Chief Creative Officer, Nihilent Limited and Hypercollective.

The ISA CEO Conference 2025 successfully reinforced the importance of collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and future-forward thinking in navigating AI-driven transformation. As businesses continue to integrate AI into their strategies, ISA remains dedicated to empowering advertisers with insights and resources to thrive in an AI-first world.

Also Read: Union Budget 2025-26: Industry Leaders hail Growth and Innovation
VML, a leading global creative transformation agency, today announced the appointment of Kalpesh Patankar, or Kal, as the industry knows him, as Group Chief Creative Officer, India. Patankar brings nearly two decades of award-winning experience to the role, most recently serving as Chief Creative Officer at Leo Burnett Dubai.

Patankars appointment marks a significant addition to VMLs creative leadership. Kal is no stranger to VML, having previously held the position of CCO at VMLY&R Dubai. His legacy includes transforming agencies into creative powerhouses that are consistently recognized on the global stage. Under his leadership, both VMLY&R Dubai and Leo Burnett Dubai achieved unprecedented success, from driving business wins to creating famous, industry-leading work. His leadership has earned recognitions including MEA Agency of the Decade at Cannes Lions, multiple Agency of the Year awards at Dubai Lynx and MENA Effies. He has also been recognized as Advertising Creative Person of the Year.

Patankars deep understanding of the creative craft coupled with his expertise in building strong client relationships, makes him a valuable asset to VML. Returning to India after nearly 20 years in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, he brings a global perspective to the India business. His leadership will be instrumental in driving the agency's continued growth and success in the region.

We are looking forward to having Kal back our global creative team. His extraordinary brand skills  particularly in the area of craft  are second to none. Under his creative leadership, brand building and the level of craft will flourish in India. He has a unique ability to bring humanity and creativity together to deliver solutions for clients that transcend marketing, added Debbi Vandeven, CCO, VML.

Kal's philosophy of 'Do good and put it out there' perfectly aligns with VMLs vision," said Babita Baruah, CEO, VML India. "His pursuit of creative excellence, combined with his proven ability to build high-performing teams, makes him the ideal leader to drive our creative vision across India."

Throughout his career, Patankar has consistently challenged conventional thinking, pushed boundaries and delivered groundbreaking work for globally recognized brands such as Coca-Cola, McDonalds, Harvey Nichols, Land Rover, and Colgate. His work has been celebrated and studied by creatives worldwide, and he has served as Jury President at prestigious award shows including Cannes Lions, D&AD, Andys, and ADFEST.

"I have been considering returning to India for a long time, but I was waiting for the right moment, agency and team to do it with," said Kalpesh Patankar. "I believe that moment is now, with the team at VML. Creativity has the power to transform businesses, and I'm excited to collaborate with teams across India and APAC to deliver exceptional results for our clients."

Based out of the agencys Mumbai office, Patankar will report to Debbi Vandeven, Global CCO, VML and Babita Baruah, CEO VML India. He will work closely with Paul Nagy, APAC CCO, to enhance VMLs creative reputation in APAC and around the world.
Pulse Candy, one of the core brands of Dharampal Satyapal Group (DS Group), a multi-business corporation and a leading FMCG conglomerate, announces its comprehensive campaign for International Compliment Day 2025, themed Celebrating brands and people who spread positivity and appreciation.

This year, Pulse is extending its gratitude to brands that made a significant impact at Mahakumbh 2025, while also fostering a wave of positivity among consumers through engaging digital and on-ground activations.

Building on the success of its fifth annual #Pulse of Compliments initiative, Pulse aims to reinforce its brand engagement and industry leadership by championing appreciation. The campaign will run from March 1st to March 4th, 2025, with social media activities commencing on February 28th, 2025, across digital, OOH, D-OOH, and social media platforms

Pulse recognizes and celebrates the pivotal role played by essential brands at Maha Kumbh 2025, supporting millions of devotees. Through strategically placed OOH billboards, Pulse will deliver thoughtful compliments to these brands, highlighting their invaluable contributions. These heartfelt tributes will also be amplified on Pulses social media channels.

"Now in its fifth year, Pulse of Compliments has become a beloved brand property, reinforcing the joy of spreading kindness and appreciation," said Ashish Bhargava, GM, Marketing, Confectionery, DS Group. "With a strategic mix of on-ground activations and digital engagement, Pulse continues to transform World Compliment Day into an opportunity to connect, celebrate, and spread warmth one compliment at a time. We are proud to position the Pulse candy as a brand that champions positivity, appreciation, and everyday joy, he added.

Pulse is launching an interactive social media contest, inviting users to share virtual compliment cards with their loved ones, spreading joy and positivity. In collaboration with Zepto, Pulse will distribute exclusive Zepto X Pulse compliment cards through quick commerce deliveries, encouraging consumers to share their compliments on social media for exciting rewards. Targeted digital promotions will further amplify the campaign's reach and drive engagement.

Also Read: DS Groups Pulse Candy gets Tangier with TheGreatPulseChase This Christmas!
Akshay Gurnani Co-Founder & CEO of Schbang, the creative & technology transformation company has announced his exit after 10 years.

Akshay, along with his fellow co-founders, established Schbang in 2015 with the vision of redefining the marketing landscape and providing cutting-edge solutions to clients. With unwavering dedication and an unrelenting commitment to excellence, he helped in steering the company through numerous challenges, propelling it to become one of the most sought-after creative agencies globally. With a team of over 1,100 employees across Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi, London & Amsterdam, they service over 200 brands across geographies.

When approached for a comment, Akshay stated that, The last 10 years have been incredibly enriching, both in the relationships Ive built with clients & team members and in the learning Ive gathered along the way. Im immensely proud of the body of work Ive created and the scale the agency has reached today. However, its now time for me to take on a new challenge, one that allows me to focus on driving business effectiveness for brands and agencies on a hyper-growth trajectory in India & UAE.

Akshay further stated, As business landscapes evolve and consumer behaviors shift, client needs are changing rapidly. My focus is on eliminating redundancies and prioritizing services that deliver business value. Digital transformation isnt just about technologyit requires a deep understanding of a clients business and a partnership-driven approach to drive meaningful change. Having spent countless hours understanding client businesses, Ive identified key inflection points where inefficiencies arise. Client success for me would entail going beyond vanity metrics, diving deeper into their digital transformation journey to help them achieve sharper outcomes, powered by the right human resources, media and technology.

Under his stewardship, Schbang has successfully executed award-winning campaigns for industry giants such as Pidilite, Perfetti, Godrej Consumer Products, Tata Consumer, L'Oreal Group, Finolex Pipes, Ashok Leyland, Crompton, Castrol, Baskin Robbins, Philips, and many more. During his time at Schbang, he was also the recipient of numerous 30 Under 30 Awards, also being named among Indias Top 50 Content Marketing Professionals.

With a strong background in digital marketing across creative, media, technology and AI, Akshay has played a key role in digitally establishing and transforming businesses for numerous Fortune 500 brands in India.

Also Read: Schbang strengthens global influence with Addikt acquisition; expands to Europe
Times Network Digital hosted the inaugural ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025, bringing together industry leaders to explore key sectors shaping Indias path to Viksit Bharat. Aligned with ET NOWs Rise with India ethos, the conclave served as a strategic platform to drive Indias economic transformation and accelerate its ambition of becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2030.

Delivering the keynote address at the ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union MoS (Ind. Charge) for Science & Technology; Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, PP/ DoPT, Atomic Energy & Space said, Indias space sector has seen a quantum leap under Prime Minister Narendra Modis leadership, unlocking opportunities for private players. In just months of opening the sector, we attracted over 1,000 crore in investments, with our space economy poised to grow fivefold to $44 billion in the coming decade. Missions like Gaganyaan and applications in border security showcase Indias self-reliance, proving that the world now looks to us as a leader in space technology.

Former Union Minister and tech investor Rajeev Chandrasekhar addressed the change in policy frameworks necessary to position India as a leader in artificial intelligence and digital technology. He said, The IT Act, which regulates technology in India, is 25 years old. It needs to be replaced with something modern and contemporary. The IT Act doesnt even mention the Internet, let alone AItwo of the biggest forces shaping the digital economy today. This debate has been ongoing within the government, and the hope is that the current administration moves forward with either an omnibus law or a set of laws addressing critical issues like safety, harm, and misinformation. The key question is whether one comprehensive law or multiple specialized ones would be more effective.

He further added, A new law should be clear, precise, and entrepreneur-first. Adding more regulatory layers only creates unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles for innovators. Instead, the focus should be on setting clear principles and guardrails, with the court and appeal systems providing necessary oversight. Creating another regulatory institution that forces young innovators to navigate bureaucratic red tape is not the right approach. The legal framework should empower entrepreneurship, foster innovation, and ensure AI and digital technologies contribute to progress without unnecessary restrictions.

Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, Lt. Gen. K. T. Parnaik (Retd.), outlined how strong border security, innovation, and infrastructure development play a key role in Indias journey towards Viksit Bharat. He stated, In Northern Command, we faced continuous challenges from Pakistan and China, implementing strategies like quid pro quo to counter intrusions effectively. In Kashmir, we tackled radicalization through perception management, shifting public sentiment in our favour.

On Arunachal Pradeshs economic and infrastructural development, he added, Arunachal is a land of immense potential, with rich biodiversity, strong cultural roots, and a hydroelectric capacity of 58,000 MW. We are strengthening infrastructure, implementing land reforms, and attracting investments. With three international borders, security remains a priority, requiring regular engagement with military and civil authorities to address challenges, including Chinese aggression and Myanmar insurgents.

The discussions culminated in the felicitation of winners across categories, determined through a rigorous nationwide submission and evaluation process conducted by Tenfold. The ETNOW.in Business Conclave & Awards 2025 honoured industry leaders and innovators across diverse categories.

The successful event underscored how national security, innovation, economic reforms, and self-reliance form the pillars of Indias journey towards Viksit Bharat.

Also Read: Times Networks news channels announce exclusive election programming
The prestigious RMAI FLAME Students Award 2025 concluded its 15th edition today at the Vignana Jyoti Institute of Management with a grand ceremony that recognized and celebrated the exceptional achievements of students across various institutes and Microsoft AZ-500 Practice Test Dumps around the Globe

The RMAI FLAME Student Awards recognizes and celebrates the most impactful projects by management students from across India, specifically focusing on the rural sector. This distinguished initiative brings together exemplary work in the rural domain, identifying and honoring outstanding studies that demonstrate innovation, research, and practical solutions aimed at addressing challenges in rural communities. The awards provide due recognition to the students whose efforts contribute meaningfully to the development and progress of rural India.

The FLAME Students Award, renowned for its rigorous selection process, has over the years become a symbol of excellence in student achievement. This years edition saw an overwhelming participation of talented students who were evaluated based on their academic performance, creative contributions, and leadership potential. The event provided a platform for showcasing the most promising student leaders who are set to shape the future of their respective industries.

Rural Marketing Association of India: C/o. Impact Communications, E-362, First Floor, Nirman Vihar, Vikas Marg, Delhi-92 | Website:www.rmai.in

The 15th edition of the RMAI FLAME Student Awards received an impressive response with over 100 entries from top business schools across the country, showcasing a diverse range of innovative and impactful projects by management students.

The awards were adjudicated by a distinguished panel of 12 esteemed jury members, ranging from renowned academicians to influential corporate leaders, bringing a wealth of expertise and insight to the evaluation process and ensuring a thorough and unbiased selection process. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed Jury Chair, Mr. S. Sivakumar, Group Head Agri and IT at ITC Ltd for graciously coming on board and providing his invaluable guidance throughout the evaluation process. The Jury and the Jury Chair shortlisted 16 entries in the Top 10 Selection.

The main award sponsor is MART Global Management Solutions LLP. Started in 1993, MART has emerged as a leading Knowledge based consulting firm on Emerging Markets. MART works with global businesses, governments and donor agencies to help them take right directions in these ever-so-growing markets. Their expertise lies in understanding the Emerging Markets and Base of the Pyramid (BoP) segments, their eco system and dynamics. The other sponsors for the event were Seedworks International Ltd, TVS Credit and Bharat Beat.

The event began with a symbolic lamp lighting ceremony, followed by a warm and insightful welcome address from President Mr. Puneet Vidyarthi, who set the stage for a memorable occasion.

The Chief Guest for the event, Mr. Venkatram Vasantavada, also delivered an engaging address, sharing his invaluable insights with the students and inspiring them to pursue excellence and innovation in their academic and professional endeavors.

Mr. Pradeep Kashyap, the founder member of RMAI and also MART Global Management Solution and widely regarded as Father of Rural Marketing in India sent a virtual message to all the students which was show cased at the event.

Next, a video message from Mr. S. Sivakumar, Head Agri & IT at ITC Ltd and also the Jury Chair for this event, was showcased, where he shared his thoughts and the evaluation process.

Out of 16 entrants, 12 entries were presented at the award event. The below students were the final winners with Bronze being a TIE.

S/No. Name Institute Project Internship Company AWARD 1 Monish Gowda T P NAARM, Hyderabad Market survey of SPECIALTY PLANT NUTRITION (SPN) products (Drip Market) DCM Shriram Ltd GOLD







Rural Marketing Association of India: C/o. Impact Communications, E-362, First Floor, Nirman Vihar, Vikas Marg, Delhi-92 | Website:www.rmai.in

2 Raghul S, Harish A and Gowtham S IRMA, ANAND VILLAGE FIELDWORK SEGMENT (VFS) - Exploratory Study of the Village Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MOPR) SILVER 3 Priyanka Chawla IRMA, ANAND Identification of new categories within Guardrails which can act as value drivers ElasticRun BRONZE 4 KASA REVANTH Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, Delhi Sunfeast Marie Light: Opportunity in Bihar ITC Ltd BRONZE







"RMAI Future Pathway" Q&A session provided an invaluable opportunity for students to interact with leading industry experts and gain firsthand insights into building a successful career in marketing.

The session, featured a distinguished panel of top marketing professionals from renowned organizations, who addressed a wide range of questions from students about career paths, industry trends, and the evolving landscape of marketing. Students were eager to learn more about the practical skills needed, the challenges faced in the industry, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

Also Read: Top business leaders gather at Forbes India Leadership Awards 23
SFI Shuts Down Campuses in Bengal, Demands Education Minister's Resignation 2

Student activists of the Students Federation of India (SFI), the student wing of CPI(M), enforced a strike across university campuses in West Bengal on Monday, demanding the resignation of Education Minister Bratya Basu. The agitation follows an altercation at Jadavpur University (JU) on March 1, where Basus convoy injured two students attempting to stop him from leaving the campus amid protests over student union elections. The minister was also injured after protesters damaged his cars windshield.

By Monday morning, campuses of Jadavpur University and Presidency University in Kolkata looked deserted as students, faculty, and staff largely stayed away, while SFI activists ensured compliance with the day-long strike. Other universities, including Calcutta University, Rabindra Bharati University, North Bengal University, and Burdwan University, were partially affected, with some classes disrupted but semester exams continuing.

Tensions flared at JU when Basu, after attending the AGM of the West Bengal College and University Professors Association (WBCUPA), attempted to leave despite student demands for a discussion. According to SFI state committee member Shuvajit Sarkar, the ministers high-handed behavior escalated tensions, leading to the clash.

Sarkar accused Basu of being escorted by TMC-aligned outsiders, who allegedly instigated violence. He further alleged that Basus convoy sped away without concern for student safety, injuring two studentsone seriously. SFI has now demanded Basus resignation and police action against him.

While SFI activists avoided disrupting vehicular movement, ensuring that students could reach their examination centers without obstruction, the strike exposed growing tensions on Bengals university campuses. The SFI has also pledged to assist higher secondary examinees by setting up help camps near examination centers.

With political rivalries spilling onto university grounds, the escalation of student protests signals deeper unrest in Bengals education sector, raising questions about ministerial accountability and student rights.
So far in 2025, more than 1,700 Alabama workers are impacted by expected layoffs. (Getty Images) Getty Images

An Alabama food distributor plans to lay off more than 60 employees in the coming months, according to a recent notice filed with the state.

Southeastern Food Merchandisers is headquartered in Pelham just south of Birmingham,. The layoffs, scheduled for April 27, will impact 62 employees, per the WARN notice.

Representatives for the company did not respond to requests for comment from AL.com.

In mid-February, Southeastern Food Merchandisers said in a Facebook post that open interviews for jobs at its headquarters were canceled.

Founded in 1983, Southeastern Food Merchandisers distributes food products in Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Georgia and northern Florida. Its clients include Jacks Family Restaurants, Wendys and other fast-food restaurants, per its website.

Federal law requires large employers to file a public WARN notice with the state 60 days in advance of mass layoffs or plant closures. Those WARN notices are published by the Alabama Department of Commerce.
Citigroup (C) mistakenly credited $81 trillion to a customers account last year and took hours to reverse the transaction, The Financial Times reports. The bank was supposed to credit just $280.

The error, which took place last April, was missed by two officials assigned to check the transaction before it was approved for processing, the Times reports. It was caught by a third employee who had detected a problem with the banks account balances more than an hour later.

In that case, no funds actually left Citigroup, which told the Federal Reserve and the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency that it was a near miss. A near miss is when a bank processes the incorrect amount meant to be transferred, but is able to recover the cash. A total of 10 incidents occurred at Citigroup last year, the Times reported, citing an internal report.

In a statement, Citigroup said a payment of that magnitude could not actually have been executed, noting that its detective controls caught the issue and the transaction was reversed. The incident, the bank said, underscores our continued efforts to continue eliminating manual processes and automating controls through our transformation.

Citigroup has focused on eliminating the possibility of such incidents after taking reputational and financial hits from past mistakes.

British regulators hit Citigroup with a $79 million fine last year over a May 2022 incident when one of its traders sold $1.4 billion worth of stocks on European exchanges, triggered a so-called flash crash. The trader had meant to sell just $58 million worth of stocks, but accidentally issued an order to sell $444 billion, the majority of which was blocked before being sold.

In 2020, Citigroup mistakenly used its own funds to pay off a $894 million loan owned by Revlon, a cosmetics company. Although some of the cash was returned by lenders, 10 of them had refused to give back the funds.

Citigroup and those 10 firms reached a settlement in late 2022, after Revlon filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Then-Citigroup CEO Michael Corbat said in September 2020 he would retire ahead of schedule, with reports pointing to regulators frustration over the companys inability to fix risk and compliance issues.

His successor, Jane Fraser, has pledged to address the banks issues. Citigroup has been conducting a massive reorganization since late 2023 and is investing heavily in data and technology investments.

Fragmented tech platforms, manual processes and controls, and a weak first line of defense, too few subject matter experts, Fraser told analysts last year. This is a massive body of work that goes well beyond the consent order, and this is not old Citi putting on Band-Aids. This is Citi tackling the root issues head-on.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Commission and Federal Reserve Board found continuing weaknesses related to data reliability and the firms compensating controls, the groups said in June. In July, Citigroup was fined $136 million for insufficient progress on improving its data handling.

___

This article was originally published in Quartz.

2025 Quartz Media Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Karen McPherson, left, is serving a life sentence in the 1991 disappearance of Walker County lawyer Carrie Lawson, whose body has never been found.

Karen McPherson, serving a life sentence in the 1991 kidnapping of a young Jasper lawyer, briefly escaped work release Monday morning but was quickly recaptured.

McPherson, 63, was convicted in the kidnapping of Carrie Lawson, whose body has never been found.

Crime Stoppers of Metro Alabama said Monday that McPherson was last seen earlier today  about 5 a.m.  exiting McDonalds at 5170 Medford Drive in Hoover.

She was with another woman identified as Sabrina Marie Torres.

McPherson, assigned to work release in the Birmingham area, was taken back into custody about 9 a.m., authorities said.

Additional details werent immediately available.

Authorities remove the body of Jerry Bland from his Jasper home on Oct. 1, 1991 after he committed suicide while FBI agents surrounded his home. (Associated Press)

Lawson was abducted from her Jasper home in the early-morning hours of September 11, 1991.

McPhersons cousin, Jerry Bland, was identified as the main suspect and died by suicide as law enforcement surrounded his home.

The kidnapping happened about 3 a.m. at the home Lawson, 25, shared with her husband, 26-year-old Earl Lawson, also an attorney.

They received a middle-of-the night call from a woman claiming to be a nurse who said a close family member was at the hospital.

As the couple left for the hospital, a gunman appeared at their vehicle. Earl Lawson was bound, and Carrie Lawson was never seen again. She had recently graduated from the University of Alabama law school.

A new podcast is taking a look at the case of Carrie Lawson, the young Alabama attorney who disappeared in 1991. Charlie Project

A ransom demand was made, and paid, but Carrie Lawson was never found.

A search of Blands property found the majority of the $300,000 paid by her family. Carrie Lawson was declared dead two years after her disappearance.

McPherson was last denied parole in 2022.

Lawsons sister, Margaret Smith Kubiszyn, previously told AL.com McPhersons role in the disappearance has always been understated.

She was alone with Carrie for a long time when they were holding her and she got to know her and still didnt let her go, she said.

Thats always been really hard for me to swallow, that anyone could get to know Carrie and then turn her over to her executioner.

Years ago, McPherson agreed to meet with Lawsons father, who has since died, and give details about the crime in return for the family not protesting parole.

She sat down with my dad for five hours and told all lies, Kubiszyn said.
#Oscars host Conan O'Brien dropped a surprising fact about Best Picture nominee "Anora," saying the film uses the "f-word 479 times. That's three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascon's publicist." https://t.co/nl9CxOviL4 pic.twitter.com/JZX6l4KrtF  ABC News (@ABC) March 3, 2025

Conan OBrien left no stone unturned Sunday during his Oscars monologue.

OBrien, 61, had some fun at the expense of Karla Sofia Gascon, who was in attendance.

I loved Anora, he started. I really did. Little fact for you, Anora uses the F word 479 times. Thats three more than the record set by Karla Sofia Gascons publicist, he said. You tweeted what?!

Im having fun. Karla Sofia Gascon is here tonight.

The Emilia Perez actress, who was sitting in the audience, bowed her head and blew a kiss and said, Thank you.

Gascon, 52, came under fire for old social media posts criticizing Muslim culture, George Floyd, diversity and more. Her X account has been deactivated.

The Emilia Perez star, nominated for best actress, issued an apology for her old social media posts after they went viral, saying she was deeply sorry for them.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on The Opening Kickoff on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.
This spring break, skip the beach and head to this Alabama town, which just made Southern Livings list of underrated mountain towns for spring break, instead.

Mentone recently made Southern Livings list of underrated mountain towns for spring break, proving that fall isnt the only time to plan a trip to Alabamas northern parts.

Related: 5 reasons we love magical Mentone, Alabama, the town time forgot

The list, which included seven towns throughout the South, said Mentone garnered a spot thanks to its natural beauty, proximity to parks and variety of outdoor activities. Several local businesses, including the beloved Wildflower Cafe and True Adventure Sports, were given a shout-out as well.

Wildflower Cafe in Mentone, Ala. (Bob Carlton/bcarlton@al.com)

Located in Northern Alabama near the Tennessee and Georgia borders, the town invites you to spend your days chasing waterfalls and soaking in mountain views, the article reads.

Related: This Alabama dish is worth the drive to Mentones beloved Wildflower Cafe

Enjoy a scenic drive to Little River Canyon National Preserve or venture to the 104-foot waterfall at DeSoto State Park. When it comes to outdoor adventure, youll be spoiled with choicesoutfitters like True Adventure Sports offer everything from zip lining and kayaking to even scuba diving. Once youve worked up an appetite, head to the rustic Wildflower Cafe for a made-from-scratch dining experience.

Other mountain towns that were included on the list were Chattanooga, Tenn.; Highlands, N.C.; Helen, Ga.; Harrisonburg, Va.; Hot Springs, Ark. and Travelers Rest, S.C..

For more information, read the full article on Southern Livings website.
One of the many white sharks tagged and named by the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy is 10-and-a-half-foot long Chrispy. Courtesy of the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy. Atlantic White Shark Conservancy

Alabama could be diving headfirst into uncharted waters, aiming to become the first state in the nation to implement a localized shark alert system.

Spurred by the near-fatal shark attack of Alabama teenager Lulu Gribbin off a Florida beach last summer, one state lawmaker wants to create a system to warn beachgoers when sharks pose an imminent danger.

While federal efforts are led by Alabamas U.S. Sen. Katie Britt for a nationwide system, state Rep. David Faulkner wants Alabama to lead the charge with a plan tailored for its own coastline.

Its something I would hope Alabama will be a leader on and that Florida would just take up, Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook, said. We believe that professionals can help determine when a notification is necessary.

But as Alabama lawmakers push forward, concerns are surfacing from coastal officials and marine scientists who warn that an alert system could create unnecessary fear, potentially impacting tourism and public perception of sharks in their natural habitat.

Initial concerns

Republican State Rep. David Faulkner speaks on the floor of the Alabama House of Representatives on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at the State House in Montgomery, Ala. (John Sharp/jsharp@al.com).

Faulkner is working with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources on HB198, which was introduced Feb. 5. The bill will be replaced by a revised version within the next two weeks, Faulkner said. The initial bill stirred pushback in the coastal region.

Under the original HB198, an alert system would be activated whenever there was a report of a shark being spotted close to a shoreline and would be believed to be posing an imminent danger to anyone.

The issue is there are sharks in the water all the time, said Sean Powers, director of the University of South Alabamas Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences and a senior marine scientist at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. How do you get an effective system that warns potential swimmers but then doesnt just go off all the time, which it would? It might have negative consequences for tourism.

He added, Trying to figure out where you can make a system like that informative and not just scare the public and scare tourists is going to be a challenge.

Melvin Shepherd, chief of staff with the Gulf Shores Fire Rescue, said its not uncommon to spot dozens of sharks whenever flying above the beaches aboard a helicopter. But he said shark bite occurrences remain low, and whats needed is education for the public about sharks.

Tourists see dolphins and think its a shark, Shepherd said. We have to have a discussion on the best way to educate people.

Shark bites are rare, especially in Alabama. According to the International Shark Attack file administered by the Florida Museum of Natural History, there have only been 10 confirmed shark attacks in Alabama waters over the past 187 years. Florida has the most at 942.

In no way are we lessening the trauma and the injuries of the few people who have been bitten and attacked by sharks, Powers said. Its a life-altering injury in many cases. But trying to find something to balance it and the very, very infrequent occurrences  its a tricky thing.

Gribbins attack

Faulkner said a state administered alert system is worth exploring given the facts surrounding Gribbins near fatal encounter with a shark off Rosemary Beach in Florida, about 100 miles east of the Alabama state line.

The attack occurred on June 7, 2024, and was less than two hours after another shark attack happened a few miles away.

Lulu lost her entire right leg and left hand for doing what? For being in 3 feet of water off a beach in Florida, Faulkner said. Enough people will say, well, thats where sharks live. But what really got me about Lulus attack is that it occurred about an hour before another attack at a different location.

He isnt alone in his concerns. In an Op-Ed to AL.com in September, Dr. Ryan Forbess of Orange Beach, who attended to Gribbins after she was attacked, said he was shocked to learn there was no alert system to keep beach-goers aware of a shark attack.

Lulu Gribbin, a 15-year-old from Mountain Brook, Alabama, who survived a shark attack, continues rehabbing from her injuries. Photo courtesy Ann Blair Gribbin

Forbess supports Britts federal legislation, Lulus Law, which aims to create a shark alert system similar to an Amber Alert.

Britt, in a statement to AL.com last week, said she is planning to reintroduce Lulus Law during the current congressional term.

Lulu Gribbin is an inspiration and a model of grit, grace, and faithfulness, Britt said. I will continue to fight to get Lulus Law enacted into law to help keep beach-going families safe.

Revising legislation

The purple shark flag flies at all Cape Cod beaches to alert visitors that sharks live in the ocean.

The details about Alabamas version could include a mix of system similar to Amber Alerts or revisions to beach flags. Typically, a purple flag flown at Alabamas beaches warn beachgoers about marine pests found within the waters. Those alerts are commonly associated with jellyfish and stingrays but not sharks or other animals.

In Cape Cod, Mass., a purple flag with a white outline of a shark is flown at all times. Once a shark is spotted, a black flag goes up, which alerts swimmers and beachgoers that sharks are in the water.

Faulkner said he will discuss the details of the revised legislation further once it is released. He said he is hopeful that it will get a hearing in the legislature this spring, and a vote on the House and Senate floors.

We cant keep saying, Well, this is where the sharks live, Faulkner said. But is it wrong for us to use our brains and the technology we have today to try to keep people safe? There is no way we can give people 100 percent safety when they get into the waters at our beautiful beaches. But instead of saying you cant do that so you shouldnt even try,  its not the way I think.

Chris Blankenship, the commissioner of ADCNR, said the idea could include incorporating a new beach flag and phone alert system.

It would be something on a phone that works with the (emergency management agencies) in Mobile and Baldwin counties that you are geofencing, and it wouldnt be a statewide or nationwide (alert), Blankenship said. Were working with (Faulkner) on something that will be beneficial to the public.

The initial legislation did not have any Mobile or Baldwin counties co-sponsor, though Faulkner said its likely he will reach out to the coastal delegation for support once the newer version is released.

State Sen. Chris Elliott, R-Josephine, who represents coastal Baldwin County, said he is willing to work with Faulkner and others on the bill, but has concerns similar to Powers and others.

I have tremendous respect for (Faulkner) and the commissioner, and I see where they are coming from, but I see implementation difficulties, Elliott said.

Federal protections

Sean Powers, director of the Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences at the University of South Alabama, speaks during a news conference on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at the university's administrative building in Mobile, Ala. (John Sharp/jsharp@al.com).

Powers, however, said he hopes lawmakers will reach out to him and other marine scientists to assist in crafting an alert system that is effective.

He said the most momentum for shark-related legislation has been with the federal Supporting the Health of Aquatic systems through Research, Knowledge, and Enhanced Dialogue (SHARKED) Act.

That act, which passed the U.S. House in January, establishes a task force to work with fisheries management groups to address problems associated by increased shark depredation  the partial or complete removal of a hooked fish by a shark directly from an anglers line before the line can be retrieved. The SHARKED Act has the support of sportfishing groups, and coastal conservation agencies.

We know sharks are increasing in population and thats by design, Powers said, alluding to all-time low populations in the 1980s that have been recovering since. The question is are we there yet? as a shark population is rebuilt to where they should be. Is it time for regulations (against) harvesting sharks to relax? There is nothing more demoralizing for a fisherman fighting a 180-pound tuna for two hours to come back with only the head at the end.
LOPATCONG TOWNSHIP, NJ - 3/18/2010 -- Liam Nixon, as Charlie Bucket, shos off his golden ticket during the Lopatcong Middle School production of Willie Wonka Junior. Express-Times Photo | BRUCE WINTER Express-Times Express-Times

This is an opinion column.

In the South, at least I know where I stand.

I hear that a lot among Blacks who migrated north to escape the overt racism they experienced in the South or from those whove lived most (if not all) of their lives above the Mason-Dixon line but frequently traveled South, usually to visit family.

I hear it because racism has no borders. In the North, its not as plain-as-day blatant as was Jim Crow segregation or racial epithets spewed by some as easily as they breathed. Not as undisguised as a confederate flag windshield decal or bumper sticker. It was sneaky, cloaked behind smiles, wielded in micro-doses. In whispers.

In the South, racism screamed.

At least we knew where we stood.

The new administration screams every day. Every day since it was handed the bullhorn. Screams with veracity and clarity.

At least we know where we stand. Know whos important to the president and Republicans. Know the administrations plans and priorities  as plain as the Project 2025 branded across its forehead.

We know who gets a golden ticket  a Donald Trumpka golden ticket. And who gets a rock. Who loses their job. Who loses Medicaid. Who goes hungry. Who gets deported.

Remember the five golden tickets hidden inside the elusive Willie Wonkas chocolate candy bars in a clandestine effort to find someone to inherit his factory? Lucky children who found them received an exclusive tour (and all the chocolate their tummies could bear), a surreptitious lure to see if they were worthy.

The first four were found by a petulant bunch: edacious Augustus, entitled Veruca, conceited Violet and scatterbrained Mike. (Kiddies whom Trumpka would giddily welcome in the Oval Office as kindreds.) Wonka found them unworthy.

Charlie, a charming and good-natured boy, found the fifth golden ticket, and because of his thoughtful nature, he and his family won ownership of the fantastical factory.

Trumpka isnt leaving his golden tickets to chance.

The rich certainly get one. If the behemoth bill his House minions squeaked through Congress last week is blessed by the Senate, Trumpkas billionaire buddies will receive the preponderance of a $4.5 trillion ($450 billion a year for 10 years) tax cut .

Medicaid recipients dont. The cut will all but certainly be largely paid for by Medicaid recipients, including low-income children.

Loyalists get one, even those clearly underqualified to fill federal leadership roles. Its as if the administration is seeking to prove its lie that DEI discriminates against better-qualified candidates by discriminating against better-qualified candidates.

Elon Musk has already snatched his golden ticket  the passwords and PIN to federal computer systems and vault. Not to mention his businesses have received $38 billion in government funding. by some estimates .

Federal workers dont get one. They just get insipid emails telling them theyre either fired or demanding that they justify why they shouldnt be. The waste and fraud Musk claims to be ferreting out the federal government is found when he looks in the mirror.

Super-rich foreigners get one, too.

When I first saw the video of Trump announcing the creation of a gold card offering a route to citizenship to any foreigner willing to pay $5 million , I thought it was an AI deep fake. Thats how ludicrous it sounded.

Alas, it was all too real  and not quite as crazy as it initially seems. Turns out several countries have golden visa programs offering a path to citizenship, including our northern friends (though that is being tested) as well as the U.K., Spain and Greece.

In the U.S., Congress in 1990 created something similar to Trumpkas gold card  the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program  to stimulate jobs and the economy. It allows foreigners, spouses and unmarried children under 21 to apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card) if they invest between $800,000 and $1,050,000 in commercial enterprises (amount depends on where the business is located) and plan to create or preserve 10 permanent full-time jobs for American workers, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service .

An applicants investment must remain with the enterprise for a minimum of two years, during which time theyre granted conditional permanent residency. (Gold card requirements, if any, have not been worked out.)

In 2022, the U.S. issued 10,855 permanent visas to applicants who met the qualifications (figure includes spouses and unmarried children under 21), based on U.S. State Department data . In 2023, 9,817 visas were issued.

Trumpkas gold card would replace EB-5, though at least for now theres the sticky matter of presidents not legally being able to hand out citizenship like chocolate bars. Eligibility is determined by Congress.

Trumpka, of course, says Congress wont have to approve gold card applicants.

Chinese nationals accounted for 63% of the visas issued in 2023, with nationals from Asian nations totaling 9 in 10 visas. None were from Russia, which could change under Trumpka, who said Russian oligarchs would be welcome. I know some Russian oligarchs who are very nice people, he said.

Of course, Trumpkas gold card and his massive, unempathetic deportation order make it very clear whom hell stand at our borders and welcome and whom he cant get rid of fast enough.

At least they all know where they stand.

Heres a thought: If rich immigrants can buy their way to American citizenship, working immigrants  no matter their current documentation status  should be able to, well, work their way to citizenship. To permanent residency.

Imagine if the president announced that any working, taxpaying immigrants who remain continuously and verifiably employed for the next two years (and not broken any laws beyond, say, a speeding ticket) would receive their green card.

Alas, youd think it was AI. Instead, it would be golden.

Lets be better tomorrow than we are today. My column appears on AL.com, and digital editions of The Birmingham News, Huntsville Times, and Mobile Press-Register. Tell me what you think at rjohnson@al.com, and follow me at twitter.com/roysj, Instagram @roysj and BlueSky.
A 15-year-old reported missing Sunday morning was found with injuries in Hoover woods that day.

Police were notified at 11 a.m. that the Helena teen was missing and was believed to be in the area of South Shades Crest Road and Brocks Gap Parkway.

Police Lt. Daniel Lowe said a large group of officers and the departments drone unit immediately began searching the area.

CSX stopped all train traffic in the area to help in the search, and the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office provide K-9 support.

The teen was found just before 4 p.m. Lowe said Hoover firefighters assisted in extricating the boy from the woods.

He was taken to Childrens of Alabama with non-life-threatening injuries.

Lowe said the cause of the teens disappearance remains under investigation. It was not immediately clear how long he had been missing before police were notified.
Civilian employees of the Defense Department are again being ordered to document their work  this time, with the backing of the Pentagon.

The order from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will be sent March 3 to the more than 700,000 civilian Defense workers, according to a Pentagon news release. The civilian workers will be told to prepare five bullet points detailing their work accomplishments from the prior week.

The order potentially affects thousands in Huntsville, where Redstone Arsenal, a major regional employer, houses numerous Defense Department tenant agencies.

The responses, Hegseth said Monday in a video statement, will be consolidated internally within the department to satisfy directives from the Office of Personnel Management.

OPM requested the same information from hundreds of thousands of federal workers Fed. 23, but the Defense Department at that time told employees to pause replies to the request. The new guidance says employees should start writing their submissions.

The Department of Defense initially paused this directive ... but now requires all DOD civilian employees to submit five bullets on their previous weeks achievements, Hegseth said.

Civilian employees should reply to the email they will receive Monday, according to the Pentagon, and responses should not include classified or sensitive information. Responses should be submitted within 48 hours.

Civilian employees who will not have email access in the 48 hours following delivery of the email due to being on leave, shift work or other reasons, are to complete the request within 48 hours of regaining access.

Our civilian patriots who dedicate themselves to defending this nation working for the Department of Defense are critical to our national security, Hegseth said. As we work to restore focus on DODs core warfighting mission under President Trumps leadership, we recognize that we cannot accomplish that mission without the strong and important contributions of our civilian workforce.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday restored the original name of a Georgia military installation, although Fort Benning now honors another combat hero instead of a Confederate general.

Hegseth signed a memo Monday changing back Fort Moore to Fort Benning, which had been the installations name for more than a century.

In May 2023, then-Defense Secretary and Alabama native Lloyd Austin accepted the recommendation of a congressional naming commission to rename Fort Benning, which honored Confederate Gen. Henry L. Benning, to Fort Moore, after Lt. Gen. General Hal Moore and his wife, Julia Compton Moore.

Hal Moore was an American military hero known for saving most of his men in the first major battle between the U.S. and North Vietnamese armies, according to the Associated Press. He was depicted in the film We Were Soldiers.

Moore lived in Alabama for many years, dying in Auburn in 2017 at age 94.

The recommendation was made in wake of the George Floyd protests.

The new name pays tribute to Corporal (CPL) Fred G. Benning, who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his extraordinary heroism in action during World War I with the U.S. Army in France in 1918, the Defense Department said in a statement. This change underscores the installations storied history of service to the United States of America, honors the warfighter ethos, and recognizes the heroes who have trained at the installation for decades and will continue to train on its storied ranges.

The Army awarded the Distinguished Service Cross to Benning for extraordinary heroism in action during events that took place Oct. 9, 1918, south of Exermont, France.

After the enemy killed his platoon commander and disabled two senior non-commissioned officers, Cpl. Benning took command of the surviving 20 men of his company and courageously led them through heavy fire to their assigned objective in support of the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, Hegseths memo reads, adding that Benning continued his selfless service after returning home from the war Sept. 3, 1919, and ultimately going on to serve as the mayor of Neligh, Nebraska.

Benning died in May 1974.

The name restoration comes after Hegseth last month reverted Fort Liberty in North Carolina to Fort Bragg.

Like Fort Benning, Fort Bragg was named after a Confederate general.

But instead of Gen. Braxton Bragg, the native North Carolinian and Confederate leader who the base had been named after in 1918, Hegseth said the installation would be named after Pfc. Roland Bragg, a soldier who was assigned to the 18th Airborne Corps at the base during World War II.

Alabama Secretary of State urged Hegseth to do the same for Fort Novosel in the central part of the state.

The fort was originally named Fort Rucker after named for Col. Edmund Rucker, a brigade commander in the Confederate Army during the Civil War.

Fort Novosels current name honors Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael J. Novosel, Sr., a Medal of Honor recipient with ties to Army Aviation, the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence, and the Wiregrass region in southeast Alabama.

The Associated Press Contributed to this report.










English News Philippines' deployment of Typhon mid-range missile system does no one good

Alwihda Info | Par peoplesdaily - 3 Mars 2025



The Asia-Pacific region needs peace and prosperity, not the deployment of mid-range missiles or confrontation. The Philippines must adhere to the DOC, honor its promises of removing the Typhon missile system, and stop making repeated mistakes when it comes to issues like Typhon.

By Zhong Sheng, People's Daily Recently, the Philippines has repeatedly intensified its infringement activities, provocations and groundless accusations, attempting to link the South China Sea issue with the deployment of the Typhon mid-range missile system.



Introducing such weaponry to cater to external countries, the Philippine side is not only creating regional tension and confrontation but treating its own national security, the well-being of its people, and regional stability as a bargaining chip. This reckless move is both ridiculous and dangerous.



China stands firm in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea. It will continue to take necessary measures to counter any infringement and provocation actions resolutely.



By bringing in the missile system, the Philippines is inviting danger into its own backyard. Capable of carrying both nuclear and conventional warheads, the Typhon mid-range missile system is not a defensive weapon but rather a strategic and offensive one with a range that covers most Southeast Asian nations.



Its decision to engage with external forces in deploying this strategic offensive weapon would place its national security and defense in the hands of others, and lead to geopolitical confrontation and risks of an arms race in the region.



This move poses a substantial threat to regional peace and security, ultimately harming not just the Philippines itself but others as well. Its claim that the deployment of the weapon is "legitimate and lawful" is nothing but self-deception.



The Philippine side has made a grave mistake by linking the South China Sea issue with the missile system. Its claim that it would return the Typhon missiles if China "stops claiming its territory, stops harassing its fishermen, and stops ramming its boats" is nothing more than an attempt to continue misleading the international community.



The territory of the Philippines is defined by a series of international treaties, and China's Nansha Qundao and Huangyan Dao fall outside of Philippine territory.



China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea are solidly grounded in history and international law, and the merits of the maritime disputes between China and the Philippines are very clear.



It is the Philippines that has engaged in infringement and provocation first. China's law enforcement activities to safeguard its rights in relevant waters are lawful, justified and beyond reproach.



The Philippine side has repeatedly gone back on its words and violated the consensus it reached with China. It has breached the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) in the South China Sea, rehashed the illegitimate so-called South China Sea arbitration, unilaterally submitted a case concerning the delimitation of the outer continental shelf in the South China Sea, and illegally intruded into adjacent waters of Xianbin Jiao of China's Nansha Qundao.



Furthermore, it has introduced egregious domestic acts, such as the so-called "Maritime Zones Act" and the "Archipelagic Sea Lanes Act," repeatedly creating new disputes and infringing upon China's sovereign rights and jurisdiction.



Having failed to achieve its attempts through such provocations, the Philippines is now seeking external backing to stir up trouble in the South China Sea. This exposes the reckless ambitions of certain Philippine politicians who prioritize their own interests over national and regional stability.



On the missile issue, the Philippines has broken its word time and again. It promised that the deployment would be "temporary," and that the system would be withdrawn following the conclusion of the military exercises. However, it has repeatedly reneged on its commitment and even plans to "procure" the system to increase its deterrence capabilities.



The brazen action not only seriously damages China-Philippines relations but also undermines the Philippines' credibility on the international stage. The Philippine government's attempt to leverage external forces for short-term gains is destined to fail, and pulling chestnuts out of the fire for the sake of others will ultimately bring disastrous consequences.



The South China Sea is not a "hunting ground" for external countries, nor should it be a "wrestling ground" for big powers. The deployment of mid-range missiles in the Asia-Pacific region seriously undermines regional peace and stability and is a regressive step that runs counter to the shared aspirations of regional countries for peace and development.



The DOC explicitly stipulates that the parties concerned undertake to resolve their disputes through friendly consultations and negotiations by sovereign states directly involved. China and ASEAN countries should make joint efforts to safeguard maritime peace.



Regional countries are the real parties that are responsible for properly handling the South China Sea issue, and external forces should refrain from provoking disputes, taking sides, or becoming troublemakers in the region.



The Asia-Pacific region needs peace and prosperity, not the deployment of mid-range missiles or confrontation. The Philippines must adhere to the DOC, honor its promises of removing the Typhon missile system, and stop making repeated mistakes when it comes to issues like Typhon.



(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)



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Everyone has a favorite adventure novel or movie in which a daring thief swaps something of immense value with something terribly fake. A forged painting hangs in lieu of the original on a museum wall. A bag of sand takes the place of a bag of jewels inside a pressure-sensitive safe. Lead bars are substituted for gold bullion in Fort Knox.

The American people are the victims of a similar kind of heist. Over the last century, master thieves have stolen their freedoms, representative government, and constitutional protections. Cheap knockoffs have replaced priceless American treasures.

The U.S. Constitution makes no mention of the Central Intelligence Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Environmental Protection Agency, or the Internal Revenue Service. It says nothing at all about the hundreds of other administrative agencies and regulatory bodies that compose the federal bureaucracy. On the contrary, the Constitution is a blueprint for a small government with limited powers. Those powers are explicitly enumerated, while all other powers are explicitly reserved for the American people and the individual states.

This is not an accident. The Founders understood that powerful central governments are more dangerous than powerful foreign invaders. The latter can be confronted and repelled, whereas the former operate in the shadows and destroy a nation from within. The Constitution is specifically designed to protect Americans from faceless bureaucrats snooping on their affairs, regulating their lives, and punishing them for contesting the whims of government agents. How incredibly strange it is, then, to watch cable news shows lamenting President Trumps efforts to dismantle that vast administrative state in D.C. today. Twenty-first-century journalists are more concerned with protecting an unconstitutional bureaucracy than protecting the American people from regulatory despots and cubicle kings.

After President Trumps victory over Hillary Clinton in 2016, The Washington Post reclaimed the slogan Democracy Dies in Darkness, a not-so-subtle rebuke of the new president. The Posts implication was that President Trump would govern in secrecy while curtailing freedom of the press. Just the opposite occurred. Trump held regular press conferences, engaged with reporters at all hours of the day, opened up White House meetings to news crews, and constantly sparred with ideological opponents on social media. Far from stifling press freedoms or threatening dissent, President Trump invigorated both. Ironically, it was not the president who curbed the free speech of others, but Americas most powerful social media companies that quickly banned his accounts and censored his messages (as well as those of his supporters). If democracy dies in darkness, Twitter, Facebook, and Google dealt the deadly blow.

But there is something even more diabolically twisted about the Posts inane posturing. If democracy is understood as the peoples control over their system of government, and if the peoples control over their government requires enough light for them to see what is going on, then anything remotely resembling democracy in America died long ago.

The CIA and a couple dozen other intelligence agencies conduct foreign policy in absolute secret. Black budgets hide how taxpayer dollars are spent. Intelligence Community chiefs influence international relations in unknown ways. Faceless spies foment rebellions, topple foreign governments, and execute consequential operations without ever consulting the American people, let alone asking for their permission. This is the definition of civic darkness.

Most corporate news reporters and credentialed members of the federal bureaucracy would insist that powerful spy organizations operating in total darkness are absolutely necessary in the modern world. Perhaps that is so, or perhaps it is far easier for the federal government to do what it wants all over the world when what it does is kept secret from the American people. Perhaps it is easier for mainstream journalists to remain relevant when they act as mouthpieces for and assets of the Intelligence Community. What is clear, though, is that American voters have absolutely no control over the direction of their government when their government hides its actions from the public.

The most powerful people in Americas permanent government have spent the last few years claiming that Russia must be defeated in Ukraine. Why? Because the Russians are bad and Vladimir Putin is authoritarian, of course! Because freedom must be defended and Ukraines borders must be secured! Perhaps such trite arguments would have been convincing during the Cold War, but the world has changed considerably over the last thirty years. Why should Americans defend Ukraines recently constructed borders when the federal government and the United Nations have encouraged tens of millions of illegal aliens to disregard Americas borders? Why should Americans fight to protect Ukraines freedoms when the Bill of Rights has been under sustained attack in the United States?

Its difficult for the Establishment to persuade Americans to view Putin as an existential threat to their safety when most of the Establishment is right now in bed with the Chinese Communist Party. If Vladimir Putin is a murderous dictator, then so is Xi Jinping. The Chinese president tortures Christians, throws dissidents in labor camps, and is arguably guilty of genocide. Why should Russias threats to human liberty be a cause for war, when Chinas threats to human liberty receive a global shrug? Such double-standards strike the American people as disturbingly odd.

Maybe there are other reasons. Maybe the United States operates bioweapons labs in Ukraine, as has been alleged. Maybe Ukraines rare earth metals are crucial for Americas economic future. Maybe the European Union and U.S.-NATO are desperate to control trade routes from Asia through the Black Sea. But if there are other, more salient reasons for the U.S. to tiptoe toward WWIII by fighting the Russians in Ukraine, the American people have been kept entirely in the dark. How can citizens make good decisions when their governments foreign policies are shrouded in secrecy? They cant.

Are there matters of national security that any competent government must keep secret  even from citizens in a democracy? Probably. But after being led into war under false pretenses far too many times, the American people are rightly skeptical when the news media and the federal bureaucracy join hands and cheer for bloodshed.

If the federal government kept Americans in the dark primarily during times of war, perhaps such anti-democratic behavior could be grudgingly accepted as temporarily necessary. But the problem is far worse than that. Just as the Intelligence Community insists that it alone has the expertise to conduct foreign affairs, the various appendages of the labyrinthine administrative state all claim to possess sufficient expertise to justify bureaucratic decision-making irrespective of the American peoples wishes.

The Environmental Protection Agency knows whats best for your land. The Department of Education knows whats best for your children. The Department of Health and Human Services knows whats best for your body. Should you disagree with their experts, the Department of Homeland Security is eager to censor your social media messages as disinformation. Should you decide to defend your family and property from government intrusion, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives is ready to commandeer both. The Transportation Security Administration keeps a naughty list of citizens whose luggage must always be tossed. The Federal Bureau of Investigation loves to organize pre-dawn raids of citizens who too publicly oppose government overreach. Unelected government bureaucrats advise citizens which parts of the Bill of Rights remain in effect.

However else this system of government is described, it cannot accurately be called representative, constitutional, or democratic. It is not of the people, by the people, or for the people. It is of, by, and for the bureaucrats. It is a system that operates in secrecy and justifies its secrecy as the prerogative of experts. It looks nothing like the U.S. Constitution. It is a cheap and unimpressive forgery.

Image via PickPik.
A new, Godless, quasi-religionOne Healthis being thrust upon the world. Its apostles say it will save humanity, or rather, life itself. Allied with Marxism in its denigration of the exploitive nature of capitalism as is demonstrated in the green movement, it debases humankind by equating us with, even putting us below, all other life forms. Its principal church is the World Health Organization (WHO), so President Donald Trumps threat to withdraw from the WHOor gain American control over itmust be seen in the light of this globalist agenda.

The WHO has been promoting One Healththe mutualism of humans, animals, plants, and other aspects of the natural environmentand aims to implement it through a proposed pandemic treaty and amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR).

Once signed, the treaty and IHR amendments will be legally binding on the WHOs 194 member nations. These nations will surrender their sovereignty over healthcare decisions and give the WHO unbridled power to accelerate the approval process for drugs and vaccines and end prohibitions against gain-of-function research. The treaty and IHR amendments will centralize power in the hands of the WHO, world leaders, NGOs, Big Pharma, and the globalist elite. Their pretext? Managing health emergencies, which they alone will have the power to declare.

Image by Thddbfk.CC BY-SA 4.0.

Not only will these steps enslave humans and rob them of individual rights using the fear of pandemics or similar emergencies, but they also amount to a tectonic paradigm shift, a movement away from a human-centered worldview to one that puts nature and the ecosystem above everything else.

Man will no longer be the pinnacle of Gods creation, existing in nature and using his capacity for understanding and innovation to thrive, aspire to the best in science and the arts, and pursue meaning and beauty. By promoting moral equivalence between man and nature in all its forms, the new quasi-religion diminishes the meaning of human life and punishes humankind for cultivating the environment for his benefit.

The logic is specious, and skeptics may easily unravel the motives behind it. After all, it is humansalbeit an elite fewwho thought up One Health in the first place and insist that everyone (except the One Health creators) must submit to it. In the end, its about gaining power and control. By playing up the ultimate fearthe end of the worldand exploiting ordinary peoples zealous desire to make immense sacrifices to forestall doomsday, the globalist elite deviously aim to get what they want: profits for Big Pharma and other corporate entities they control. This is why One Health must be seen for what it isa dangerous quasi-religion.

The big idea behind One Healthmutualism between humans and natureis centuries old. However, it gained recent currency in 2004 at a symposium hosted by Rockefeller University. Representatives of the WHO, the U.N., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and several international agencies and NGOs attended.

The meeting produced the Manhattan Principles, which recommended a broader, unitive understanding of health and disease that acknowledged the interconnectivity of humans, flora, fauna, and the environment. The principles also recommended an interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral approach to disease prevention, surveillance, monitoring, control and mitigation, as well as environmental conservation more broadly.

How this could play out is seen in a June 2023 lawsuit brought by the Nonhuman Rights Project (NhRP) against the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs. It sought the removal of the zoos five aging elephants, which the NhRP says were unlawfully confined and suffering from stress, physical disabilities, and brain damage. This might seem ridiculous, and the Colorado Supreme Court did rule in favor of the zoo, but in a world bound by One Health, the felling of a tree may amount to murder, and that of a forest may amount to a massacre.

In 2010, the One Health Quadripartitecomprising the WHO, the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the U.N. Environment Program (UNEP)was established to address risks inherent in the human-animal-ecosystem interface. This group has developed the One Health Joint Plan of Action (OH JPA) to manage pandemics, climate change, healthcare, welfare, etc.

Thus, the dialectic of One Health is aligned with the U.N.s Sustainability Development Goals. Together, the two programs work towards ending national sovereignty, personal freedom, the right to property, and the sanctity of the individual. Of course, there is a collaborative relationship of organisms, as One Health and the green movement maintain. But they take it further to extremes to insist that humans must evolve to alter their supremacist behavior, free themselves of the selfish idea of individualism, and begin to understand the co-benefits, risks, trade-offs, and opportunities available to advance equitable and holistic solutions.

Since then, this ideology has been integrated into the missions of the WHO, the elitist World Economic Forum (WEF), the U.N., the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the military. It has also been introduced in K-12 education and our universities, where it has gained thousands of proselytes.

A recent video titled A Radical Guide to Reality, produced by the Whole World View Project (WWVP) and promoted by the U.N., openly advocates mass hypnosis for wide acceptance of the elitist ideas on ordinary people surrendering control. Purporting to explore the nature of reality and our interconnectedness, it negates the idea that humans have mind and consciousness. Instead, it proclaims that the whole world is mind and consciousnesswhatever that means! The implication: Surrender your individualism to the world-mind, that is, to the elite who dictate what reality really is.

Bruce Davidson, a humanities professor at Hokusei Gakuen University in Japan and a Brownstone Institute author, says One Health goes beyond health and environment policies and is an attempt to develop a worldwide mass-mind. This is particularly dangerous because, as he observes, individualistic thinking was demonstrated to be generally superior during the Covid-19 pandemic. Skeptics who questioned the narrative pushed by the elite and the governments they controlled and resisted the mandates were the ones with a greater chance of survival.

Another astute figure who saw the pandemic panic for what it wasa pretext for clamping down with totalitarian controls and not being about public healthwas Robert Kennedy, Jr., whom President Trump chose to head the HHS. He says the intelligence community and the military were intimately involved in Operation Warp Speed (OWS), the public-private partnership set up to fight and control COVID-19 and develop tests and vaccines.

Real authority was not with officials from public health agencies such as NIH, CDC, and the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). The initiative was led by the National Security Council (NSC) and the Pentagon. Kennedy contends that from the beginning, OWS was a military project that paid Pfizer and Moderna to promote COVID-19 shots and lend their imprimatur to the operation, providing camouflage and making massive profits.

Imagine that on a global scale and over a larger time frame, and you have the makings of an Orwellian dystopia built on fear, surveillance, surrender of individual rights, and ultimately, surrender of choice and free will, while the more equal elite and their apparatchiks revel in power and profit. All this will have been achieved by making people pious believers in a goal larger than themselvessaving the Earthfor which they would willingly sacrifice all their privileges as humans like the martyrs of long ago.

If such a dystopia is to be prevented and Americas Judeo-Christian spiritual foundationof humankind being created in Gods image as the steward of the earth and its resourcesis to be preserved, the underhanded dialectic of One Health must be countered. One way to do that might be for America to withdraw from the WHO and the U.N.
People often speak of the luck of the Irish, but this year, that luck comes with an ominous twist. On March 17, the celebration of St. Patricks Day  deeply rooted in Irish identity, resilience, and Christianity  coincides with 17 Ramadan, the anniversary of the Battle of Badr (A.D. 624). This battle, pivotal in Islamic history, remains a symbol of divine intervention and victory in jihad, one that has inspired all Muslims for centuries. What Badr represented for early Islam, mass migration represents for modern Europe  a steady strategic shift aimed at reshaping the fabric of established societies.

For most Westerners, this may seem like a mere coincidence, but in Islamic history, dates matter. Just as September 11 was the date deliberately chosen to symbolize a reversal of Islamic defeats in Vienna (1683) and Belgrade (1690), so too was 17 Ramadan chosen to symbolize victory after the Battle of Badr. This set a precedent: the belief that Ramadan is the ideal time to wage jihad, and that jihadis will receive even greater rewards, whether they die in martyrdom or not.

Ireland, a historically Christian nation, will unknowingly be sharing its national holiday with the anniversary of one of Islams greatest victories over non-Muslims, a victory that paved the way for Islams expansion beyond Arabia and eventually into the Western world, at the cost of millions of lives lost in wars, raids, and forced conversions.

The entire foundation of Islamic military success is built on the idea that faith in Allah guarantees victory. This belief is rooted in the most significant Quranic war verse, interpreted by jihadis and many Islamic scholars as a command to wage jihad. This verse, referring to the Battle of Badr, emphasizes that Allah supports only those who believe in him and who fight for him to defend Islam, and that he is the one who ultimately grants victory in battle to the believers, even when they are outnumbered. Victory is never solely due to military strength and strategy. If a war is lost, it is due to lack of faith in Allah, not military inferiority.

To defend Islam means to kill non-believers or non-Muslims, who are referred to in the Quran as the worst of creatures and whom Islam commands not to take as friends. This is why coexistence and integration are not options in Islam: it does not assimilate. It only dominates. The same supremacist ideology drove Mohamed and his followers to commit genocide against all Jewish tribes in Arabia, slaughter tens of millions of Hindus over an 800-year period, and massacre 1.5 million Christian Armenians. Today, that same ideology continues to inspire countless Muslim adherents worldwide, as they are commanded to fight until there is no more disbelief, and the religion is entirely for Allah.

In this context, jihadis believe that the deeper their faith in Allah, the greater their chance of victory. This is why they become consumed with fervor and frenzy in their emotion for Allah during jihad, causing them to frantically cry out Allahu akbar as an expression of their devotion. They believe that this devotion will reward them with a successful kill, guaranteeing them a place in Paradise. All non-Muslims are legitimate targets for jihad, because all are guilty of rejecting Islam. There is no such thing as an innocent non-Muslim. This belief lies at the heart of not just radical Islam, but Islam itself.

Many of the most significant Islamic conquests were launched during Ramadan, a time steeped in religious significance, offering jihadis an opportunity to mirror the victory of Badr. Historical examples of this include the fall of Constantinople (1453), where the Muslim Ottomans defeated the last Christian Byzantine stronghold, and the Islamic invasion of Spain (711-1492), which resulted in centuries of Muslim rule in Europe. Even the Ottoman sieges of Vienna (1529 and 1683), although outside Ramadan, were part of an ongoing campaign to expand Islam into Europe.

Today, Western open-border policies have more than made up for any past territorial losses. The same drive for Islamic expansion continues  not through direct conquest, but through new strategies, such as emigration (Hijra), which is religiously mandated in the Quran to spread Islam beyond Muslim lands. The goal remains to make [Islam] prevail over all religions, ensuring its dominance wherever it takes root. Combined with high birth rates, a declining Western identity, laws suppressing criticism of Islam, and political influence, Islam no longer needs the sword. Conquest is no longer necessary to spread Islam in todays weakened societies.

Ireland, once fiercely Irish and Christian, has already seen a dramatic transformation, embracing one of Europes most extreme open-border policies with little political resistance. Mass migration is reshaping the countrys culture and demographics at an unprecedented pace. This transformation mirrors the same changes taking place across Europe, where Islamic influence is growing.

Europes self-inflicted open-border policies, driving uncontrolled migration, are facilitating the rise of terrorist sleeper cells ready for action at any time. Meanwhile, the growing reluctance to criticize Islam, driven by fears of being criminalized for Islamophobia, is hindering law enforcement from addressing imminent jihadi threats, making societies even more susceptible to terrorist attacks  especially during Ramadan, which is typically rife with terror.

With tensions already at a breaking point following October 7, and a noticeable increase in attacks by jihadi groups worldwide, this Ramadan carries a much greater risk of violence than usual, especially with the coincidence of Islam sharing one of its most revered anniversaries with a Patron Saint, potentially igniting resentment.

Amplifying the heightened risk during this month is the rise of ISIS and Middle East instability, which could create an opening for jihadi groups advocating for the return of the Islamic caliphate to unite all Muslims under a single ruler, as mandated by Islamic law. What better time to attempt this than during Ramadan, the very month when the last caliphate was declared in 2014 by ISIS leader al-Baghdadi in Iraq, marking the twelfth anniversary on 2 Ramadan (March 2)?

Historical patterns show that caliphates arise during times of upheaval, particularly when states are weak or fail to govern effectively, as seen in Syria and Iraq. Inspired by the victory at Badr, jihadis today seek to reestablish the caliphate, drawing strength from the belief that faith and devotion to Allah guarantee victory, just as in the past.

As St. Patricks Day and 17 Ramadan align, history whispers its warnings. The Battle of Badr was more than just a military victory  it marked the dawn of an expanding empire, altering the course of civilization. For centuries, unchecked Islamic influence has reshaped nations, often erasing the cultures and faiths that preceded it.

Whereas St. Patrick sought to bring Christianity to Ireland, today Islam seeks to replace it  a symbolic intersection of two opposing forces that have clashed throughout history since Islams inception 1,400 years ago.

The Wests inability to recognize the pattern unfolding before its eyes and address the growing Islamic influence, enabled by globalist policies, makes the West increasingly susceptible to the same fate as past civilizations, such as Byzantium and Spain, which succumbed to the very same forces that threaten the West today. Ireland and Europe as a whole face a crossroads. Will they protect their identity and sovereignty, or will they allow history to repeat itself?

The luck of the Irish will not be enough to protect Ireland or the West from repeating the mistakes of history.

Image via Pxhere.
Every Republican president starts with distinct disadvantages. He inherits a largely disloyal and subversive federal bureaucracy, can expect nothing but hostile media coverage, and will be forced to battle for every inch against partisan judges who despise him.

Considering how long the Left has owned the culture and Americas educational system, these power centers are strong. Republicans in the past addressed this problem with the failed strategy of attempting to play nice with serpents. It was akin to kissing a rattlesnake, and didnt end well.

President Trump understands that the only way to succeed with so many power centers aligned against him is to attack everywhere in a political shock-and-awe campaign. Thats exactly what he and his superb team are doing, which has led to the most successful first month by a Republican president in the modern era.

Its military strategy 101. Colonel John Warden, an air power theorist, argued that every military enemy has five centers of gravity, which he showed as rings. It is critical to attack each of them. We saw this play out in Desert Storm in 1990 and the shock and awe campaign used against Iraq in 2003. You attack along so many fronts that the enemy cant process the information to respond.

You get inside what one theorist, John Boyd, called the enemies OODA loop (Observation, Orientation, Decision, Action). Actions require a process that involves observing, orienting, deciding, and finally acting. A shock-and-awe campaign disrupts these steps repeatedly. While the enemy orients toward one action, another attack disrupts and resets that process. Targets are under attack everywhere, preventing the enemy from being able to move to the action phase to defend any of the targets effectively.

For Democrats, it doesnt help that they loaded the battlefield with so many obvious targets due to their obscene and anti-American policies. They are like the dog in the cartoon movie Up, seeing squirrels everywhere. The minute they take three steps toward one, President Trump throws another ball out, and their heads snap in a new direction. They dont even get the weekends to catch their breath.

Consider some of what President Trump has already accomplished. He has made real cuts to the federal bureaucracy, something that seemed impossible before 2025. Hes secured the border, defended women, removed murderers and rapists from the country, attacked the corrosive merit-destroying horror of DEI, restored justice to political victims targeted by the previous administration, pushed for improving educational quality, unleashed the economic power of energy, and protected American industries, among many first-month highlights. He is standing for liberty, justice, and Americans with every action.

There was a popular Army commercial that excited potential recruits by promising they would do more before 9 a.m. than most people do all day. That has been the zeitgeist of this administration, and their enemies are getting left in the dust.

Speaking of recruiting ads, that recruiting challenge everyone was so worried about for the last few years sure disappeared in a hurry. Recruits are lining up to join a military that focuses on unity and warfighting as opposed to celebrating differences and elevating mental disorders.

Elon Musk made an interesting comment that captured part of the challenge to the administrations opponents when he noted that DOGE is working 120 hours a week. Our bureaucratic opponents optimistically work 40 hours a week. That is why they are losing so fast.

Thats shock and awe. This administration was ready to go on day one, and moved out at a furious pace never seen before. This was necessary. It was the only way they had any chance of advancing American interests without opposition bringing them to a screeching halt.

It gets harder from here. The administrations opponents are adapting, so it is critical to both identify and attack their resistance centers of gravity nonstop. Id prioritize those centers of gravity as the federal bureaucracy, the judiciary, the media, academia, and popular culture.

Federal Bureaucracy. The federal bureaucracy is almost universally Democrat. The behemoth believes it exists to loyally support any Democrat directive while resisting Republicans. America has no choice but to cut an entity many times larger than we can afford, even apart from ideological considerations, but cutting the government has the added benefit of sending a strong signal that subversion and resistance to the will of the public wont be tolerated. Agencies that exist for no other purpose than to throttle freedom and advance leftist causes should be shuttered. Targeting USAID was a great start, and Betsy DeVos is absolutely right that the Department of Education needs to go.

This bureaucratic war is just starting. We have over 2000 agencies, which sounds like about 1800 too many. You cant have a truly free society when the bureaucratic state has so many tentacles that you cant even find them all.

Judiciary. The administration will be forced to battle judges nonstop. There have already been hundreds of lawsuits against the administration. That number will grow into the thousands since lawfare is the Lefts primary strategy when their positions are so wildly unpopular. The courts are loaded with sympathetic judges, and the rodents of the Left will scuttle to them.

The good news is that the government has a big advantage here. The government can use these court battles to draw money and focus from their opponents. The government has whatever resources it needs to fight legal challenges. Their opponents do not. Democrats use that as a force of evil. The administration should and likely will appeal every one of these politicized decisions and use the process to punish and drain their foes. The Republican Congress needs to pitch in and impeach some of the most obviously leftist judges who are not following the law. If nothing else, it will expose the efforts of these judges to the broader public.

Media. As far as the media goes, the administration is making all the right moves by elevating new voices and marginalizing discredited outlets. They are attacking medias sense of prestige and entitlement. The president picked plenty of people who are uniquely talented at fighting in this arena. They need to continue to ensure the media understands there are consequences for lies and bad behavior, such as costly lawsuits or being removed from coveted press pools. The fact that some of the savvier media owners are reorienting their outlets shows a recognition that the playing field has changed.

Academia. There is plenty that the administration can and will do to keep freedom-hating universities on the defensive, such as taxing their endowments, suing to defend students, and offering alternatives to wise Americans that dont include going into massive debt for useless degrees.

Culture. No Republican president has understood Andrew Breitbarts observation that politics is downstream of culture more than Donald Trump. He connects with young people and has leveraged cultural forces like Elon Musk and Joe Rogan. The progress in this battle has infuriated the Democrats the most since they view culture as their birthright.

Even as opposition hardens, the administration will continue its campaign to shock, rattle, and awe with missiles aimed right at the lefts resistance centers of gravity. What makes that so glorious is that the focus is on advancing three core principles we havent seen in a long time; freedom, our national interests, and a healthy dose of hope.

Image: White House
The Iranian regimes blatant disregard for human rights and its deliberate use of executions to silence political dissent demand urgent international attention. The case of Mehdi Hassani (not to be confused with MSNBCs Mehdi Hassan), a political prisoner facing imminent execution in Qezel-Hesar Prison, serves as a glaring example of Irans oppressive judicial practices and the latest illustration of the Islamic Republics systemic use of violence as a tool to stamp out dissent.

Despite the Supreme Court of Irans previous decision to accept Hassanis retrial request, recent reports indicate that this request has now been rejected, putting his life in immediate danger. This case is not an isolated incident but, rather, a continuation of Tehrans long-standing pattern of executing political prisoners under fabricated charges. It is imperative that the international community intervenes immediately to halt this injustice and hold Iran accountable for its egregious human rights violations.

Mehdi Hassanis plight highlights the Iranian governments relentless crackdown on political dissidents. His daughters emotional plea underscores the depth of the injustice her father faces: It means I cried out once again, held onto hope once again, and yet, our rights were once again the easiest to trample. The tragic reality is that Mehdi Hassanis circumstance follows a consistent pattern in which political prisoners are subjected to arbitrary arrests, denied fair trials, and sentenced to death in blatant disregard for international human rights protocols.

Image: Mehdi Hassani (left) and Behrouz Ehsani (right). Public domain.

Despite global condemnation, Iran continues to weaponize the death penalty as a tool of political oppression. The United Nations and human rights organizations must not remain silent in the face of such state-sponsored brutality. Immediate action is necessary to prevent Mehdi Hassanis execution and to hold the Iranian government accountable for its systematic abuse of power.

The Iranian regimes use of capital punishment to suppress anti-regime sentiment is well-documented. In recent months, authorities have escalated their efforts to stifle opposition voices, transferring political prisoners between high-security facilities and denying them fair legal recourse. The transfer of Mehdi Hassani and fellow political prisoner Behrouz Ehsani from Evin Prison to Qezel-Hesar Prison without explanation further underscores the regimes intent to execute these prisoners in secrecy.

Recent developments in Mehdi Hassanis case highlight the urgency of the situation. On January 8, 2025, an urgent alert revealed that Hassani and Behrouz Ehsani faced imminent execution following torture and an unfair trial. Just days later, on January 11, sixty-eight political prisoners across Iran denounced the Supreme Courts decision to uphold their death sentences, calling it state-sanctioned murder. On January 26, both men were forcibly transferred to Qezel-Hesar Prison without explanation. By January 27, over 260 renowned experts had joined Iran HRM and JVMI in urging the UN to take immediate action. Despite the Supreme Courts prior acceptance of their retrial, they remained in a high-security ward designated for death row prisoners as of January 31. While global protests on February 4 temporarily halted their executions, Iranian authorities continue to threaten their lives, underscoring the persistent danger they face.

Each of these events underscores Irans deliberate efforts to carry out politically motivated executions while circumventing international scrutiny. The UN and other global institutions must recognize that their previous interventions, though significant, have been insufficient to deter Irans leaders from pursuing their lethal agenda.

Time is running out for Mehdi Hassani, and the international community cannot afford to wait. Alice Jill Edwards, UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, Mai Sato, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Iran, Volker Turk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the United Nations Human Rights office must intervene immediately. Their influence can help pressure Iranian authorities to halt this execution, demand transparency, and ensure that Hassani receives a fair trial. The international community must impose consequences on Iran for its continued violations of international human rights law.

Furthermore, the United States should take immediate and decisive measures to penalize Iranian officials responsible for these abuses. Targeted sanctions against judiciary members complicit in political executions, increased diplomatic isolation, and global condemnation at the United Nations General Assembly are necessary steps to curb Irans human rights violations.

The United States, European Union, and other democratic nations must also leverage their influence to demand accountability. Diplomatic engagements with Iran should include explicit conditions addressing human rights violations, with severe repercussions for noncompliance. Failure to act will only embolden the regime to continue its campaign of political persecution.

Mehdi Hassanis case is a microcosm of Irans broader culture of impunity. Over the years, numerous political prisoners have faced execution on trumped-up charges, often after enduring severe torture. The silence of the international community has allowed Iran to perpetuate these atrocities without consequence.

By allowing such violations to go unpunished, the global order risks normalizing state-sponsored executions as a tool of repression. Irans continued use of the death penalty against political prisoners represents a direct challenge to international law and human rights principles.

If the world fails to act now, the Iranian regime will continue to employ execution as a method of control, sending a dangerous message that dissent will be met with death. The time for empty statements is over  concrete action must be taken to prevent further loss of innocent lives.

The imminent execution of Mehdi Hassani is not just a tragedy for his family; it is an indictment of Irans systematic oppression of political dissent. The global community must act decisively to prevent his execution and hold Iran accountable for its egregious human rights violations.

Ivan Sascha Sheehan is a professor of Public and International affairs and the associate dean of the College of Public Affairs at the University of Baltimore. Opinions expressed are his own. Follow him on X @ProfSheehan.
Volodymyr Zelenskyys childish histrionics and ultimatums in the Oval Office directed at President Trumps efforts to bring an end to the most devastating war on the continent of Europe since World War II are reflective of the European delusional mindset of self-serving expectations and perceived American obligations stemming from a one-sided seventy-five-year alliance -- the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. A treaty that evolved into the United States effectively taking upon itself the unappreciated role of military protector of nearly half of the European continent.

The major purpose of NATO was to deter an aggressive and despotic Soviet Union from attacking Western Europe and by extension the United States. That possibility ended in 1991 with the collapse and breakup of the Soviet Union. History has shown that once the stated purpose of a military alliance no longer exists that alliance must be disbanded, or it will assume other purposes that inevitably leads to conflicts.

The ruling classes in the United States and Western Europe, regardless of changing circumstances in Europe and incapable of restraining their infatuation with Euro-socialism, decided to avoid gradually turning over the defense of Europe to the Europeans. Instead, they opted to expand and redefine NATO while the United States would continue to provide virtually the entirety of the military umbrella protecting the continent.

The process of turning over the defense of Europe to the Europeans should have been initiated and accelerated in 1993 when the European Union and unified economic, social, and security policies came into being while Russia embarked on democratization. Instead, the 27 nations of the European Union, with a GDP second only to the United States, remained reliant on America and its massive defense commitments instead of spending their own money.

Since the collapse of the Soviet Union and its satellites, the United States has spent over $1 Trillion in direct expenditures within NATO while also providing protection for vital sea lanes and a nuclear umbrella over the continent.

In order to keep NATO alive, the European and American ruling classes duplicitously continued to cast Russia as being the same threat as the old Soviet Union, thus, undermining the democratization efforts within Russia. An irrational fear of a nonexistent nation and its satellites was conferred upon its much smaller and far less formidable successor. The population of present-day Russia is 33% of that of the old Soviet Union and its satellites and the GDP of present-day Russia is effectively less than 30% of the old Soviet Union and its satellites.

The combined population of the European Union plus Great Britain (512 million) is 3.5 times larger than Russia (144 million) and their overall annual GDP of $20.4 Trillion is 10 times larger than the GDP of Russia ($2.0 Trillion). After the breakup of the Soviet Union, the Europeans were more than capable of defending themselves against a comparatively anemic and far less lethal Russia as exemplified by their ongoing inability to defeat a far smaller and weaker Ukraine.

European duplicity combined with American political myopia kept an American-dominated NATO alive. Not only was it maintained but expanded by adding 14 new countries, all of whom were former Soviet Union satellites on Russias western border, thus exacerbating Russian paranoia (with Ukraines potential admittance into NATO being an irreversible flashpoint). This centuries-old paranoia combined with rampant internal corruption undermined their democratization efforts and eventually led to a new Russian autocratic oligarchy headed by a megalomaniacal dictator, Vladimir Putin.

Since the Putins invasion of Ukraine, the United States has spent or appropriated to be spent $183 Billion plus another $20 Billion in loans for a total of $203 Billion, an amount that exceeds the annual GDP of seventy percent of the nations in the world. Further, only America and its chief adversary China ($267 Billion) spend more per year on their military budgets.

Through the end of December 2024 the European Union plus Great Britain have spent or committed to spend $100 Billion in Ukraine or half of what the taxpayers in the United States have been compelled to contribute.

Meanwhile the U.S. national debt is now $36.5 Trillion and is equivalent to 133% of the annual GDP ($27.7 Trillion) as Americas national debt exceeds its annual economic output.

By comparison, the national debt of the 27 countries in the European Union plus Great Britain is currently $18 Trillion, and their debt is equivalent to 90% of their annual GDP ($20.4 Trillion).

Americas role in NATO is the backdrop behind Zelenskyys histrionics and demands in the Oval Office meeting with President Trump. In reality, he is reflecting the mindset of the bulk of Europes ruling elites that the easily dupped Americans will always be there to defend and pay the bulk of the Alliances military spending -- an outlook that for the past seventy-years has been embedded in the European psyche. The rush to praise and defend Zelenskyys words and actions confirms this inbred reality among Europes ruling class.

Thus, Zelenskyy, who is not a Euro-sophisticate, in his dealings with an American president determined to end the war, seek repayment for the monies forwarded by the American taxpayers, and refusal to commit to further American military involvement, became juvenilely unhinged as he insulted and confronted President Trump. The only difference between Zelenskyy and the sophisticated European elites is that the latter harbor the same disdain for the United States but do so in private or among themselves.

Donald Trump will ultimately succeed in ending the war in Ukraine, which has evolved into a World War I carnage-riddled stalemate. Trump should then announce that over the next four-years America will dramatically reduce its military footprint in Europe and phase out of NATO and the obligation to embroil itself in intra-European security squabbles. Thereafter, the United States would agree to be a partner in a new European defense alliance but limited to direct financial or military assistance only if a member nation suffers a direct invasion or attack by China or other non-European countries.

The nations of Western and Central Europe would, thus, have to form a new alliance among themselves to deal with Russian and European security matters, leaving America to focus on its ever-growing financial and domestic problems as well as the global threat of Communist China.

Due to Chinas population, ideology, implacable nationalism, economy, and renewed manifest destiny motivated by retribution for Western-imposed subservience in the 19th and early 20th centuries, China is potentially the greatest external threat to the United States in its history.

The one-sided dependent relationship with Europe must end. The war in Ukraine and the words and actions of Zelensky, as endorsed by the European ruling class, has underscored the economic and geopolitical necessity of leaving Europe to essentially fend for itself.

Image: President of Ukraine
Trump and his posse have obviously hit the ground running -- but the real picture of unfolding events is yet to be resolved. We seem to be realizing that the defect in our various governments is not entirely contained among the woke, leftist Democrats but is rather a problem involving our entire political establishment.

How else could such immense mishandling of public money be so easily uncovered so quickly? Add to this the lack of normal internal auditing and the years and years of such accumulated malfeasance. It seems that looking the other way has been a routine practice among both the elected and unelected members of the government.

Uniquely among nations, the United States was created on the concept of the sovereignty of the individual. Jeffersons yeoman farmer and Franklins pragmatic observer of the natural world were intended to flourish once the shackles of tyranny were lifted from their beings.

There was, however, a serious defect embedded in our founding -- which was responsible for delaying the announcement of the Declaration of Independence by two days -- while some of Jeffersons anti-slavery language was expunged from the document. Eighty-four years later the nation was plunged into an enormously costly civil war to ultimately resolve the issue.

Historians point to the shifting of executive power from the governors of the several states to the singular president in Washington as a consequence of the Civil War. This was largely to enforce conscription, since fleeing from ones home state would put someone beyond the reach of their local militias draft board. Centralized government would inevitably impede the exercise of individual freedom by imposing a one-size-fits-all administrative style on the whole nation.

Now, democratic governments composed of fallible human beings can never be perfect. But we are now learning that little, if any, error control rules and procedures were ever in place and Trump has only been president for a few weeks. Not being a career politician, and as a successful entrepreneur, President Trump has long experience with problem solving. Having been self-employed most of my life, I learned long ago that the key to solving problems is diagnosis identifying the specific problem that needs to be solved. There are a lot of red herrings out there.

A little known though classic example of a presidential bungle occurred almost a century ago in 1934, during the second year of Franklin D. Roosevelts first term. The problem FDR was trying to solve involved the operating deficit of the Post Office. Sound familiar? He tried to compel the various airlines that handled air mail to lower their rates. They refused. So, Roosevelt had the Army Air Corps take over the transport of air mail. The Air Corps, however, didnt have the necessary planes or the properly trained personnel to do the job. As a result, sixty-five planes crashed, and twelve aviators lost their lives. Had Pres. Trump been in FDRs position, he most likely would have made himself sufficiently informed of the actual readiness of the Air Corps for the mail task, and as a result would have sought a different bargain.

Again, our entire political establishment -- not just a particular ideology -- is on trial here. Now, of course, woke statist progressives are the primary advocates for more government but there are other snakes hiding under the rug.

Rising to the surface is the legitimacy of elections. They will never be perfect, but reasonable requirements can make a huge difference. I like to say that the Mexican equivalent of Halloween, Dia de los Muertos, is also celebrated in Chicago where, every election, the dead rise up to vote. It is also absurd that producing an authentic picture identification card in order to vote is an unfair and burdensome requirement -- since such is already necessary, not just to purchase adult beverages, but also to buy a compressed gas dispenser in order to blow away the accumulated potato chip crumbs from ones keyboard.

Bottom line: Cheating by government operatives has been institutionalized, not suppressed. Why? Government is a monopoly -- not subject to competitive pressures. Hence, over time the malfeasances mount up. Why have not previous administrations exploited this pro-taxpayer advocacy? Answer: Because they could easily get away with what theyve been doing instead. That is, until now.

Image: AT via Magic Studio
On March 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring English the official language of the United Statesa historic act that reverberates with the timbre of our nations founding. This is not mere policy; it is a clarion call to reclaim the linguistic bedrock upon which Americas greatness was forged. For too long, we have drifted in a sea of Babel-like ambivalence, diluting our cohesion with well-meaning but misguided multiculturalism. Today, conservatives stand at a crossroads: we can embrace this as a triumph of unity and identity, or squander it in the face of predictable progressive hand-wringing. The choice is clearEnglish must be our official tongue, not as a cudgel, but as a covenant of shared purpose.

The genius of America lies in its ability to meld diverse peoples into a singular, exceptional nation. From the ink of the Declaration of Independence to the parchment of the Constitution, English has been the unbroken thread stitching our ideals into reality. It is no coincidence that our Founding Fathersmen of English stock, yes, but visionaries of universal libertypenned their revolutionary creed in this language. They understood its power to transcend dialects and forge a polity where ideas, not accents, reign supreme. Trumps order honors that legacy, recognizing that a nation without a common language is a house divided, vulnerable to fracture.

Critics will cry exclusion, conjuring images of huddled masses turned away by an English-only edict. This is a straw man, as flimsy as it is familiar. The order does not ban other languagesSpanish will still echo in Miamis streets, Navajo will endure in the Southwestbut it elevates English as the standard for governance and civic life. Far from isolating immigrants, it beckons them into the fold, offering a clear path to assimilate into the American tapestry. To argue otherwise is to infantilize newcomers, suggesting they cannot master the tongue that has carried our laws, literature, and liberties for centuries. Conservatives know better: We see in every legal immigrant the potential to become fully American, not a perpetual outsider tethered to translation.

Consider the practical elegance of this move. The White House rightly notes that all our historic governing documents are in Englisha fact not of arrogance, but of necessity. Why, then, should federal agencies labor under mandates to produce reams of multilingual paperwork, draining taxpayer dollars for a task that dilutes efficiency? The rescission of Clinton-era Executive Order 13166, which shackled recipients of federal funds to language-assistance requirements, is a masterstroke of fiscal sanity. Now, hospitals, schools, and bureaucracies can prioritize English while retaining discretion to serve local needsa federalist nod that respects both unity and autonomy. This is not cruelty; it is clarity.

Yet the case for English transcends pragmatismit is a bulwark against the cultural erosion conservatives have long decried. For decades, weve watched the left champion a borderless ethos, where identity is fluid and allegiance optional. Language is the frontline in this battle. When we cede Englishs primacy, we invite a creeping relativism that undermines the very notion of We the People. A nation that cannot speak to itself in one voice risks losing its soul to a cacophony of competing claims. Trumps order is a reassertion of American exceptionalism, a reminder that our strength lies not in endless accommodation, but in a shared foundation that elevates all who embrace it.

Let us dispense with the tired trope of the melting pot as a multilingual free-for-all. The pot melts best when its ingredients meld into a cohesive whole, not when they simmer in separate enclaves. English is the flame beneath that crucible. Historical precedent bears this out: waves of Germans, Italians, and Poles arrived on our shores speaking their mother tongues, yet within a generation, they were reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in English. Why? Because America offered them not just refuge, but a unifying idealand a language to express it. To demand less of todays immigrants is to deny them the dignity of that transformation.

Opponents will invoke civil rights, claiming this policy discriminates against non-English speakers. This is a red herring, legally and morally. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act guards against national-origin bias, not language preferencea distinction courts have upheld. More to the point, rights in America flow from citizenship and participation, not from linguistic entitlement. English as the official language does not silence other voices; it amplifies the one voice that binds us as a nation. To suggest otherwise is to confuse equality of opportunity with equality of outcomea fallacy conservatives have long rejected.

The global stage offers further vindication. English is the worlds lingua franca, the idiom of commerce, science, and diplomacy. By codifying it at home, we align ourselves with that reality, equipping our citizensnative-born and naturalized aliketo lead on a planet where English opens doors. Imagine the irony of a superpower that hesitates to claim its own tongue, even as its rivals study it to surpass us. This order is a patriotic act, not just for our past, but for our futurea future where Americas voice remains unmistakable and unmatched.

Balance demands we address the skeptics. Yes, over 350 languages grace our land, a testament to our diversity. Yes, some will struggle to adapt, particularly the elderly or newly arrived. But compassion need not mean capitulation. States and charities can step in where federal mandates once stood, offering English classes or targeted aida solution truer to our principles of limited government and community resilience. The transition may chafe, but it is a worthy price for a nation renewed in purpose.

Picture America in 2050: A people united not by blood or creed alone, but by a language that carries our story forward. Picture a government that speaks clearly to its citizens, free of the Babel that breeds confusion. Picture immigrants standing proud, their accents softening as they claim English as their ownnot out of coercion, but aspiration. This is the vision Trumps order plants, a seed of unity in an age of division.

Conservatives must rally to this cause, not as reactionaries, but as stewards of a bold, forward-looking patriotism. English is not just our language; it is our lifeline, the artery through which our national spirit flows. Let us champion it with the fervor it deserves, proving that in America, one voice can still ring louder than manyand that voice speaks English.

Image: Free image, Pixabay license.